Produced by Megan Williams, Matt Drummond
Written and Directed by Matt Drummond
Starring Jordan Dulieu, Annabel Wolfe,
Tom Rooney, Sam Winspear-Schillings,
Harrison Saunders, Chris Gabardi,
Scott Irwin, Rowland Holmes

​Parents everywhere are constantly plagued by their children’s request for a pet, usually in the form of a dog or cat. Once in a while they’ll get a request for a spider or hamster, but either way, it’s still quite manageable.

Now, imagine if your child came to you asking for a pet dinosaur.

While you may laugh at your child’s fun fantasy wish, just imagine what it would be like to actually have that pet dinosaur and the inevitable havoc that would ensue.

This is what Matt Drummond’s My Pet Dinosaur explores.

Feeling like an low-budget Pete’s Dragon, My Pet Dinosaur is a simple yet rather enjoyable film about a military experiment gone wrong. This leads to a young kid named Jake (Jordan Dulieu) and his friend Abbey (Annabel Wolfe) to discover an accidentally created tiny dinosaur.

Adorably named, Magnus, the two become fast friends and of course, Jake keeps him a secret. However, things become more complicated when Magnus starts growing and keeping him hidden becomes more difficult, especially from the military who is starting to look for Magnus.

My Pet Dinosaur is a hidden Australian gem that feels like the early drafts of Steven Spielberg’s E.T. With crisp visuals and a heartfelt story, Matt Drummond is able to capture everything that’s beautiful about being a child and the world of imagination. Filled will nostalgic moments, it’s also a spectacular take on sci-fi adventure and childhood friendships. Dulieu as well as the other children are natural onscreen, delivering heart, wonderment, and emotion.

Comparative to The Jungle Book, their work with the CGI dinosaur blends flawlessly as you suspend your reality and get wrapped up into the story.

Is this movie perfect? No. I would have appreciated if the director focused on making an Australian movie instead of an American film. What results are Australian born actors attempting horrible fake accents and a fictional American town. Fortunately, these small downsides do not affect its quality.

Unlike other CGI movies that seem to solely focused on explosions and special effects, every scene feels organic. Acting takes priority. That’s not to say the CGI looses its quality. The entire production is stellar and shot beautifully. Places like the Wentworth Falls Lake area and Lithgow’s Glow Worm Tunnel are their own characters, filled with mystery and entrancing suspense. As the story progresses, Magnus’ growth looks very authentic.

My Pet Dinosaur is a movie for all ages that’s made with love. While the pacing can be slow, there’s no need to rush what unfolds. Each scene is a lesson in independent film-making that proves even with a limited budget, anything is possible with a strong script and a passionate production crew and cast.​

The #1 action film in the world, The Fate of the Furious, goes full-throttle on Digital HD on June 27, 2017, and on 4K Ultra HD, Blu-ray, DVD and On Demand on July 11, 2017, from Universal Pictures Home Entertainment. The latest exhilarating installment of the nitro-fueled blockbuster action franchise features a gripping new storyline, the most outrageous collection of vehicles yet, and an all-star cast of fan favorites and series newcomers. From the shores of Cuba and the streets of New York City to the icy plains off the arctic Barents Sea, the close-knit crew criss-crosses the globe to stop an anarchist from unleashing world chaos — and to bring home the man who made them a family. With more than an hour of never-before-seen bonus features and an Extended Director’s Cut, The Fate of the Furious will be the crowning glory of every fan’s collection.

Now that Dom (Vin Diesel, XXX, Riddick), and Letty (Michelle Rodriguez, Avatar, Resident Evil) are married, Brian and Mia have retired from the game, and the rest of the crew has been exonerated, the globetrotting team seems to have found a semblance of a normal life. But when a mysterious woman (Oscar winner Charlize Theron, Mad Max: Fury Road, Snow White and the Huntsman) lures Dom back into the world of crime and convinces him to betray those closest to him, the crew faces new trials that will test them as never before.

The Fate of the Furious reunites Vin Diesel, Dwayne Johnson (Baywatch, The Other Guys), Jason Statham (The Transporter, The Expendables), Michelle Rodriguez, Tyrese Gibson (Transformers, Ride Along 2) and Chris ‘Ludacris’ Bridges (No Strings Attached, Max Payne) in a heart-stopping new adventure that also features Charlize Theron, Kurt Russell (Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 2, The Hateful Eight) and Scott Eastwood (Gran Torino, Suicide Squad).

BONUS FEATURES EXCLUSIVE TO BLU-RAY:

• The Cuban Spirit – As the first major studio motion picture to shoot in Cuba in decades, the country’s effusive spirit permeates the making of the film.
• In the Family – In The Fate of the Furious, family ties are put to the ultimate test. Get an inside look at the family divide.
• Car Culture – It’s time to put yourself in the driver’s seat of the supercharged vehicles showcased in The Fate of the Furious.

BONUS FEATURES on BLU-RAY and DVD:

• All About the Stunts – Go behind the scenes to witness how The Fate of the Furious accomplished the most epic stunts in franchise history.
• Extended Fight Scenes
• Feature Commentary with Director F. Gary Gray

THE FATE OF THE FURIOUS  EXTENDED DIRECTOR’S CUT
Director F. Gary Gray’s never-before-seen extended cut and the Theatrical release are available on all physical products (4K Ultra HD, Blu-ray, and DVD) that will include digital codes for both versions.  Also available on digital platforms.

The Fate of the Furious will be available on 4K Ultra HD in a combo pack which includes 4K Ultra HD Blu-ray, Blu-ray and Digital HD. The 4K Ultra HD combo pack will include all bonus features on the Blu-ray disc.

• 4K Ultra HD is the ultimate movie watching experience. 4K Ultra HD features the combination of 4K resolution for four times sharper picture than HD, the color brilliance of High Dynamic Range (HDR) with immersive audio delivering a multidimensional sound experience.
• Blu-ray unleashes the power of your HDTV and is the best way to watch movies at home, featuring 6X the picture resolution of DVD, exclusive extras and theater-quality surround sound.
• DIGITAL HD lets fans watch movies anywhere on their favorite devices. Users can instantly stream or download.

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See where the worldwide phenomenon began with Shout! Factory TV’s Super Sentai Spectacular: Kakuranger! Shout! Factory TV proudly presents a streaming marathon event with live Q&A and commentary segments as episodes of Ninja Sentai Kakuranger blast onto the screen on Saturday, May 20^th at 9 a.m. (PST) at http://www.shoutfactorytv.com/ and on Pluto TV Channel 512.

Broadcast live from the Super Sentai secret headquarters somewhere in Hollywood, the marathon allows fans to experience epic Kakuranger episodes and try to stump the experts during live segments hosted by Shout! Factory’s Brian Ward, alongside comedian Hana Michels, Geek and Sundry and Twitch personality Erika Ishii, and Power Rangers Expert Shamus Kelley. Fans are encouraged to use #Kakuranger to share their Super Sentai knowledge and connect with live Q&A.

It’s been a long time since the great war between the Three God Generals and the Youkai, an ancient race of monstrous spirits. Since then, imprisoned in a cave protected by the mystical Seal Door, their leader Daimaou and his Youkai army wait, planning for the day they can finally strike. That day has arrived and it is up to the Kakurangers, along with the Three God Generals, to defeat the Youkai before Daimaou’s villainy destroys Earth!

From the show that inspired Saban’s Mighty Morphin Power Rangers, Ninja Sentai Kakuranger follows the rangers on a quest filled with martial arts, color costumes, giant monsters and more as they fight spectacular battles to save Earth from The Machine Empire. The marathon will be streaming episodes of the original Japanese series that inspired and provided footage for the Power Rangers franchise, presented in Japanese with English subtitles.

Join the live conversation with our panelists and other Super Sentai fans with the hashtag #Kakuranger while you watch.

Tune in and participate in the fandom on Twitter and Facebook

Shout! Factory TV’s Super Sentai Spectacular: Kakuranger will be streaming from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. (PT) on Saturday May 20^th at http://www.shoutfactorytv.com/ and on Pluto TV, CH 512. For mobile, tablet and connected TV devices the marathon is accessible via the Pluto TV app. The marathon is also available via Pluto TV in the living room (Roku, Amazon’s Fire TV and Fire TV Stick, Android TV devices, Chromecast and Apple Airplay), on the go (apps for iOS, Android and Amazon) and at your fingertips on PC’s, Mac’s or on the web.

After fans have watched the first episodes here, all 53 episodes of Ninja Sentai Kakuranger will be available on Shout! Factory TV for evergreen streaming following the marathon.

Mondo and acclaimed indie publisher Z2 Comics are releasing a limited edition MURDER BALLADS graphic novel and original soundtrack 10″ vinyl record release by bluesman Robert Finley and Grammy-Award winner Dan Auerbach. The MURDER BALLADS Original Soundtrack includes Finley and Auerbach’s cover of the classic Leadbelly song “In the Pines” and four original songs created specifically by Finley and Auerbach to accompany the upcoming graphic novel release MURDER BALLADS, the highly anticipated rock’n’roll noir graphic novel about the music industry and redemption by writer Gabe Soria and artists Paul Reinwand and Chris Hunt.

The standard edition MURDER BALLADS graphic novel will be released by Z2 Comics this July for $24.95 and will include downloadable codes to the original soundtrack. The Limited Edition MURDER BALLADS Original Soundtrack and Graphic Novel from Mondo will retail for $200 when it opens for pre-order on May 24th on mondotees.com, and will feature original album cover art by Jon Langford, the acclaimed visual artist best known for his striking portraits of country and rock music icons including Hank Williams, Johnny Cash, and Elvis Presley.

The MURDER BALLADS Original Soundtrack contains “In the Pines”, the iconic blues song performed by Leadbelly and four songs: “Bang Bang,”“Butter Sandwich”, “The Empty Arms” and “Three Jumpers.”

“I’ve always been fascinated by the unglamorous side of music making,” said MURDER BALLADS writer Gabe Soria. “Accounts of glorious obscurities and the characters working the fringes…that’s my meat and potatoes right there, the stuff that has nothing to do with fame and everything to do with love, obsession and compulsion to MAKE. I dig stories about people who are just trying to get by making music on their own terms, and about the unusual and beautiful and tragic ways music can be woven into the fabric of our lives, whether it’s through someone playing sad piano in a dive bar, a one-hit wonder on a transistor radio, a bootleg blues record, or whatever. THE BALLAD OF FRANKLIN BONISTEEL and MURDER BALLADS are tales from MY secret history of music, and it’s been amazing being able to work with artists like Paul and Chris and have them to bring that world to life.”

Z2 Comics also announced today that the MURDER BALLADS graphic novel will be written by Soria, with Paul Reinwand (28 WARLORDS) illustrating Side A and Chris Hunt (CARVER) illustrating Side B.

“Having a Side A and Side B is a tip of the hat to recording history, but it’s also essential to the storytelling,” said Z2 Comics Co-Publisher Sridhar Reddy. “It reflects the tonal shifts in both the narrative and the flow of the music. Where Side A is the tale of dreamers, Side B is the dream turning into the nightmare of reality. This is also reflected in the art, where Paul’s work is looser and free, and Chris’ work has a noir edge.”

“Music has always been an important element in my life, and a key part of my creative process as a comic book creator and artist,” said Chris Hunt. “The Blues in particular drew me in at a young age and to be able to work on a project that not only lauds such a storied musical genre, but also incorporates it into the actual DNA of the storytelling process is a rare opportunity. I’m honored to be able to contribute to such a unique project.”

“I’d been playing more with screen tones and heavier spot blacks in my work when MURDER BALLADS was offered to me, and it just felt like such a natural fit with where I was at the time,” said Paul Reinwand. “Gabe had such a clear idea of the characters, but was extremely supportive of anything else I wanted to do, which meant I just got to have fun on the page, and I think that comes through.”

A meditation on music, obsession and how far someone will go to see their vision become real, MURDER BALLADS follows the fall and reinvention of Nate Theodore, the dead-broke and deadbeat owner of a failing record label who is on a cross-country drive in the dead of winter, fleeing the wreckage of his business and trying to save his crumbling marriage. Nate is given an unexpected chance to reverse his fortunes when, during a stop in a desolate rust belt town, he “discovers” Donny and Marvell Fontweathers, two African-American brothers who play a raucous brand of doom-laden country blues.

Robert Finley and Dan Auerbach (photo by Alysse Gafkjen)

“Robert and Dan’s musical contribution to the book is as vital to the story as words on the page and the art,” said Z2 Comics Co-Publisher Josh Frankel. “It is an immersive experience.”

Mondo will open pre-orders for the limited edition Limited Edition MURDER BALLADS Original Soundtrack and Graphic Novel on May 24th. The standard edition will be distributed at comic book stores and bookstores nationwide and will be available digitally via ComiXology; it is available for pre-order now.

Wild Times: An Oral History of Wildstorm Studios
Written by Joseph Hedges

This Kickstarter project is now available to the general public, a 450 page book about Wildstorm Studios. This book covers how it was formed, and how they ended up. It’s an interesting enough read. Despite my interest in the subject matter, it came across a little drier than I expected.

This book compiles tons of interviews into a narrative, much like the “Live from New York” book about the beginnings of Saturday Night Live. Hedges certainly did his homework and it shows.

From Garth Ennis, to Gary Frank, to countless others, we get a first hand look at what happened. Some stories were better than others. J. Scott Campbell has a lot of stage time here and after awhile he bores you as do a few others.

Yet, while reading it I felt there was something missing.

That element? That would be Jim Lee the guy who actually founded Wildstorm.  Without Lee, there is no real merit to the project. He’s the guy who who formed the entire company. There’s no insight from him in regards to leaving Marvel, forming Image and then creating his own studio that became so successful that he was able to sell it to DC Comics. It’s a glaring problem, and no matter how many times he’s mentioned, there is no perspective from Lee. That makes it go south a little bit.

I would have also liked to have heard from Travis Charest as he’s an interesting figure in the formation of Wildstorm and he ended his time there badly. I would like to have heard from his perspective.  Many of the missing contributors come from people are closest to Lee including inker Scott Williams and WildC.A.T.S. co-creator Brandon Choi.

Another unfortunate omission is a lack of any artwork.  I understand the concern over using copyrighted material, but under journalistic use, it would have been nice to see lots of art examples and photographs.

Still, this is a well researched book. I’m not sure how much we needed it. Is it a book telling you stories you couldn’t wait to hear? No. Is it a decent enough book however with some interesting tidbits? Absolutely.

Kudos to Hedges too for seeing it through. He still has time to get those Lee and Charest interviews however.

RATING: B 

To Purchase Wild Times: An Oral History of Wildstorm Studios, click HERE

Last week during the 2017 Upfront presentation, it was a bloodbath.

A primetime bloodbath.

Dozens and dozens of shows, old and new, were placed on the chopping block and unceremoniously butchered as networks attempted to make way for bigger and better shows, placing all their eggs in cooler baskets.

For the shows that didn’t make it, you will be remembered. Sometimes. If a weird pop culture reference is needed.

And for the shows that made it to next season…

welcome to the prime time, bitch.

ABC

Fans of fake true love shows, modern day takes on fairy tales and Marvel tie-ins are luckier than fans of Ken Jeong as the Alphabet takes their cuts.

Renewed: The $100,000 Pyramid, America’s Funniest Home Videos, American Idol, American Housewife, The Bachelor, The Bachelorette, Bachelor in Paradise, Black-ish, Celebrity Family Feud, Dancing With the Stars, Designated Survivor, Fresh Off the Boat, Grey’s Anatomy, The Goldbergs, How to Get Away with Murder, The Middle, Marvel’s Agents of S.H.I.E.L.D, Modern Family, Once Upon a Time, Quantico, Scandal, Speechless, Jimmy Kimmel Live!, Shark Tank.

Canceled/Ended: American Crime, The Catch, Dr. Ken, Imaginary Mary, Last Man Standing, The Real O’Neals, Secrets And Lies, Time After Time.

Your Guess Is As Good As Mine: Beyond the Tank.

CBS

CBS opts to end 2 Broke Girls after a six season ride, while offering an additional two season to the never-ending nerd rule of The Big Bang Theory.

Renewed: 48 Hours, 60 Minutes, The Amazing Race, The Big Bang Theory, Big Brother, Blue Bloods, Bull, Criminal Minds, Code Black, Elementary, The Good Fight, Hawaii Five-0, Kevin Can Wait, Life in Pieces, Madam Secretary, MacGyver, Man with a Plan, Mom, NCIS, NCIS: Los Angeles, NCIS: New Orleans, Scorpion, Superior Donuts, Survivor, Undercover Boss, Zoo.

Canceled/Ended: 2 Broke Girls, American Gothic, BrainDead, Criminal Minds: Beyond Borders, Doubt, The Great Indoors, The Odd Couple, Pure Geniuses, Ransom, Rush Hour, Training Day

The CW

Fans of The Vampire Diaries will get to cushion the blow with the sweet, sweet sexy teen melodrama of The Originals, Riverdale and Supernatural.

Renewed: The 100, Arrow, Crazy Ex-Girlfriend, DC’s Legends of Tomorrow, The Flash, iZombie, Jane the Virgin, The Originals, Penn & Teller: Fool Us, Riverdale, Supernatural, Supergirl, Whose Line Is It Anyway.

Canceled/Ended: The Vampire Diaries, Frequency, No Tomorrow, Reign

FOX

The House Rupert Built continues to build on a solid foundation of animation of Bob’s Burgers, Family Guy and The Simpsons, but the party’s over for Party Over Here, Sleepy Hollow and Bones while New Girl gets a final, albeit, short final season.

Renewed: American Grit, Bob’s Burgers, Brooklyn Nine-Nine, Empire, The Exorcist, Family Guy, Gotham, Hell’s Kitchen, The Last Man on Earth, Lethal Weapon, Lucifer, MasterChef, MasterChef Junior, The Mick, New Girl (NOTE: Final season), The Simpsons, So You Think You Can Dance, Star, The X-Files.

Canceled/Ended: APB, Bones, Making History, Rosewood, Party Over Here, Pitch, Sleepy Hollow, Shots Fired, Son of Zorn.

Your Guess Is As Good As Mine: 24: Legacy, Hotel Hell, Home Free, Prison Break, Scream Queens, Wayward Pines.

NBC

Things are grim for Grimm and Oz-set Emerald City, but the coast is clear for yet another season of America’s Got Talent and anything set in Chicago.

Renewed: America’s Got Talent, American Ninja Warrior, Blacklist, Blindspot, The Carmichael Show, Chicago Fire, Chicago Med, Chicago PD, The Good Place, Great News, Hollywood Game Night, Law & Order: SVU, The Night Shift, Shades Of Blue, Spartan: Ultimate Team Challenge, Superstore, Taken, This Is Us, The Wall, Timeless (NOTE: Uncancelled after it was cancelled! Talk about drama!), Will & Grace, The Voice.

Canceled/Ended: Aquarius, The Blacklist: Redemption, Emerald City, Grimm, Powerless.

Your Guess Is As Good As Mine: The Biggest Loser, Chicago Justice, Little Big Shots (NOTE: Likely to be renewed), The New Celebrity Apprentice (NOTE: Probably a new host), Trial & Error.

Next month, DC will be rolling out six mash-ups, starting on June 14th with LEGION OF SUPER-HEROES/BUGS BUNNY SPECIAL #1 and MARTIAN MANHUNTER/MARVIN THE MARTIAN SPECIAL #1.

Check out your first look at these specials, with the main story characters in DC style and the backup stories in Looney Tunes style.

Watch out for falling anvils!!

LEGION OF SUPER-HEROES/BUGS BUNNY SPECIAL #1

BACK-UP STORY

MARTIAN MANHUNTER/MARVIN THE MARTIAN SPECIAL #1

BACK-UP STORY

Praise the geek gods for Greg Berlanti and the Arrowverse, right?

Never, ever, in a million years, did I think I’d be watching weekly TV shows featuring Green Arrow, The Atom, Vixen, Captain Cold, Firestorm, Ragman or Mister Terrific. And never, ever did I think I’d see Gorilla Grodd, Music Meister or King freakin’ Shark.

And now, as Arrow wraps up season 5, The Flash finishes season 3, and Supergirl and Legends of Tomorrow each on season 2, I am dumbfounded to say that Legends of Tomorrow may be my favorite now.

Really. Not kidding. Here’s how I rank the shows: Legends of Tomorrow is first, followed by Arrow. Then, depending on my mood, Supergirl and The Flash trade off Nos. 3 and 4.

A year ago, Legends was a definite last place. Rip Hunter was even more of a Doctor Who ripoff in the hands of Arthur Darvill, who played one of the Eleventh Doctor’s companions. (Oddly enough, Hunter debuted in 1959, whereas Britain’s favorite Time Lord first aired in four years later.)

Firestorm suffered under not fleshing out Jefferson’s character enough. Captain Cold and Heat Wave’s weaponry was downgraded, and we didn’t get enough of them together. But the chief offense was Casper Crump’s failure to elevate Vandal Savage to the savagely brutal, world-class evil he deserved to be.

But as I went through the first season, some things started to happen. Captain Cold and The Atom became a fun comic pair, especially when they went to the Soviet Union. Chronos being unveiled as a brainwashed Heat Wave was good. Hawkgirl and The Atom being stranded in the 1950s and falling in love had some good emotional notes. Jonah Hex showed up when the Legends traveled to the Old West.

And then, when Damien Darhk turned up in the past, the show really turned a corner. But when Mick Rory started doing the show introduction, I knew it kicked up into the super-duper fun zone. Hence an episode in which The Atom and Commander Steel have to convince a young George Lucas to make Star Wars and Raiders of the Lost Ark so that they are inspired to pursue careers that led to their superheroics.

The Flash has spent two seasons in a rut of evil speedsters and Barry Allen’s awful decision-making. For real, it’s been so bad with Barry that, this season, I had been saying he’s the actual bad guy of the show – before we found out big bad Savitar actually is a time-remnant future version of Barry!

Kara Zor-El hasn’t been too far behind on Supergirl. I’ve had to watch her be a bad journalist, a bad friend, a hot-and-cold girlfriend, and occasionally bratty to her sister. Then this season, which had done awesome commentary on social issues such as immigration and LGBT rights, took a female-fronted show and sunk everything with Mon-El drama that takes his side a lot.

Also, the progressive nature of the show took a huge hit when it broke up Kara and James Olsen, played by a black actor, as soon as they were put together, only to move in Mon-El, played by a white actor. (Not to mention the largely pointless arc of turning him into the vigilante Guardian.) So the interracial romance between Kara and James was replaced with the “interracial” romance of a Kryptonian and Daxamite? Sure.

All of this has kept me off Supergirl for a while, but things have been heating up now that Rhea, queen of Daxam, is emerging as a big bad villain parallel to Lillian Luthor and Project Cadmus. Supergirl has had to find its feet again after leaving CBS for The CW, and that includes losing Cat Grant as a series regular. Grant, expertly played by Calista Flockhart, both grounded Kara and added gravitas to the series. The reception to her return this week showed how much she was missed, and necessary.

Arrow, actually, has been on rolling along in season 5. It got torpid with the Ra’s Al Ghul storyline in season 3, but then the next year brought Damien Darhk, HIVE, a nuclear blast, underground Wayward Pines-style bunkers, Thea’s bloodlust returning, the rise of a new Team Arrow, Oliver’s secret son (!), and the death of Black Canary.

Season 5 has seen Oliver Queen become mayor, grow in maturity and trying to let go of his past. Adrian Chase/Prometheus combines the preachy morality of the Jigsaw killer with the hyper-intelligent, savage brutality of Hannibal Lecter. It’s been fun to watch.

There are some problems, though. Felicity’s storyline hasn’t been freestanding enough, her motivations for joining Helix not as well thought out. And I’m not too happy with Mister Terrific – an Olympian and genius inventor – largely has been played as a joke who gets beaten up a lot as Curtis works his way into becoming a masked avenger.

We’re nearing the end of the flashbacks, but the Bratva stuff is great if only because Dolph Lundgren signed up as Konstantin Kovar. Lundgren’s size advantage on Stephen Amell, and his own knowledge of martial arts, takes Arrow’s fights to another level.

Arrow at its heart has been about Oliver Queen trying to figuratively Quantum Leap his own life by redeeming himself and repenting for his mistakes and the misdeeds inherited from his parents. And after five years in hell before returning to Star City, and five years of heaven and hell as the Green Arrow, Oliver appears ready for a fresh start.

Barry Allen, of course, has spent this past season and the current one of The Flash doing the literal Quantum Leap by time-traveling a bunch. In the process, the hard-earned lightness and zip of the first season – which set it apart from dark and gritty Arrow — has been replaced by a show about a brooding Barry being the worst.

Just when we thought Barry worked through his issues everyone he loves being murdered, he then erases his mother’s murder by Reverse-Flash and creates Flashpoint. We’ve had to watch Savitar kill Iris so many times that, when it finally happened this week, some of the drama was lost.

The show still has some charms, but if Barry just keeps repeating the same bad choices. The Flash is running around in circles. So I’m really hoping that next week’s season finale shows Barry actually turning a corner, and sticking with it. Barry needs a fresh start, too.

But … you know another way these shows can do all of this? By going big-time DC Comics, and enacting a Crisis. That’s right, a good, old-fashioned, reality-warping Crisis!

This would be a mega-crossover that you sow the seeds for across the shows, and then it lasts across all the shows for the final two or three weeks.

Let’s big-sky this thing.

The Dominators are back on the scene, but it’s unclear whether they are attempting another invasion. A large explosion happens just outside Central City. Barry and the team track it down, and find a glowing green orb. Within the orb, they find a Green Lantern, badly injured. (Kyle Rayner would be a good one to use, but Guy Gardner would be hella fun.)

Green Lantern has but one message – “He’s coming … Brainiac is coming!”

What? Brainiac? Barry and Team Flash don’t know who he is. And neither does GL. “Who’s Brainiac?” they say in Flash headquarters at STAR Labs.

“He’s a destroyer of peoples, of worlds,” replies an off-screen voice. They turn, and it’s Supergirl, fresh from Earth-38. “And we’re here to stop him.” Out walks Kara with Martian Manhunter and Superman in tow. Yikes!

But how has Brainiac found a way to travel between the parallel Earths? Braniac is showing mysteriously enhanced powers. We find out that Brainiac is in cahoots with … the Anti-Monitor! Whaaaaaat!

Supergirl, Superman, Flash, Green Arrow, Martian Manhunter and the Legends team up with Green Lantern to fight Brainiac and the Anti-Monitor. Blow up all the budgets, why doncha?

There’s a lot of cool stuff you could do, because literally anything could happen!

You could have Kara be critically injured or burn out her heat vision like before, which results in Superman carrying Supergirl in a recreation of Crisis on Infinite Earths.

We could see the reality of Earth-38 be erased. James, Winn, Maggie, Cat and Alex wiped out. Green Lantern, who has a six-episode arc, could be killed in the line of duty. Ollie and Felicity are reunited and we see a glimpse of their future! Rip Hunter phases in and out of existence! Reverse-Flash and Zoom are consolidated into one monstrous super-speedster! Ronnie Raymond and Eddie Thawne are alive again, throwing off Iris and Killer Frost! Martin’s daughter, a time aberration, fades into non-existence!

But, above all, Barry Allen has to die at the end.

Just like in Crisis on Infinite Earths, Barry runs so fast that he stops the Anti-Monitor’s anti-matter cannon from firing by catching the tachyon beam at the heart of the weapon. I want to see Joe’s waterworks. I want to see Cisco emerge from the wreckage, holding Barry’s empty Flash suit.

Bright flash of light, and reality is remade more than destroyed. The multiverse of Earth-1 and Earth-38 are consolidated into one. No more breaches for Supergirl to see Flash.

Arrow could basically be the same, but Black Canary could be back. On The Flash, Barry is still dead, but imagine a show with Kid Flash and Jesse Quick protecting Central City as partners and a couple.

Supergirl could redo the whole Mon-El mess, maybe even redo or recast Cat Grant. (Yup, I said it.)

Legends of Tomorrow could reinstitute the Time Masters but still stay as dopey and freewheeling as ever.

Of course, the next crossover would be about the return of Barry Allen.

It would be glorious.

It’s the end of an era! Over the course of its first five seasons, Girls, the hit HBO comedy series created by and starring Emmy nominee and Golden Globe winner Lena Dunham, and executive produced by Judd Apatow and Jenni Konner, has continued to be one of the most critically acclaimed and buzzed about shows on television. Now fans can finally find out how this instantly-iconic HBO series ends when Girls: The Complete Sixth Season will be available for Digital Download on May 15, 2017 and on Blu-ray and DVD on July 25, 2017. All formats feature exclusive new bonus content, including an extended version of ‘A Goodbye to Girls’ featuring never-before-seen behind-the-scenes footage, ‘Inside the Episodes’ featurettes and more.

In the sixth and final season of Girls, HBO’s hit comedy continues to follow the assorted humiliations and triumphs of a group of 20-something friends in NYC. Season 6 picks up six months after the end of Season 5, with Hannah (Dunham), enjoying new success as a writer while her roommate and bestie Elijah (Andrew Rannells) considers getting serious about his acting career. Marnie (Allison Williams), now in a relationship with Ray (Alex Karpovsky), seeks to maintain her independence post-divorce from Desi (Ebon Moss-Bachrach). Now also a couple, Jessa (Jemima Kirke) and Adam (Adam Driver) decide to embark on a creative project to channel their passions, which could become a source of contention. And Shoshanna (Zosia Mamet) finds herself professionally on the right path, though personally she realizes that her friendships may be holding her back. A time for closing chapters and new beginnings, Girls follows our four familiar friends as they attempt to get closer to becoming the women they always envisioned – even as life sometimes gets in the way.

Girls has continued to inspire critical raves in its sixth season, with The Washington Post hailing the show for achieving “overall excellence” and The New York Times praising it’s “poignant hilarity”. For fans of the show, it was difficult to say goodbye, but now you can relive the hilarious “4 star” (US Weekly) series and complete your collection with the upcoming release of Girls: The Complete Sixth Season.

The Jim Henson Company has partnered with McFarlane Toys, which will harken back to its roots of “Movie Maniacs” to create figures of classic characters from two of Henson’s most well-known features Labyrinth and The Dark Crystal.

Directed by visionary Jim Henson and executive produced by George Lucas, Labyrinth is a fanboy favorite and wonder of puppetry. Stuck babysitting her brother, teenager Sarah, resentfully wishes The Goblin King (memorably portrayed by David Bowie) can take him away. When her wish comes true, Sarah must head into the Labyrinth herself to save him. Since its 1986 release the film has garnered a cult popularity and is still reveled in today’s era as a timeless classic.

The Dark Crystal, directed by Jim Henson and Frank Oz, brilliantly weaves a timeless myth of good and evil. In another time, The Dark Crystal, a source of balance and truth in the universe, was broken, dividing the world into two factions; the wicked Skeksis and the peaceful Mystics. Now, as the convergence of the three suns approaches, the crystal must be healed, or darkness will reign forever. The Dark Crystal’s fanbase has only risen since the film’s debut and has also developed a cult following of fans across the world.

McFarlane Toys has produced highly detailed figures and construction sets for various entertainment properties and this collaboration with The Jim Henson Company will give fans of these iconic films new and unique action figures that are “true to life” replicas of their on-screen personas.

The upcoming toys will include a 7-inch figure of Labyrinth’s Jareth The Goblin King, and for The Dark Crystal, fans can look forward to figures of Jen and Kira. Each figure will be highly detailed and come fully articulated to recreate infamous movie scenes. These figures will also debut in new window box collector packaging and will come with Labyrinth and The Dark Crystal branded detailed bases.

“Fans of both Labyrinth and The Dark Crystal continue to grow, while both brands also enjoy the passionate and loyal support of committed followers for decades,” said Vice President of Global Consumer Products for The Jim Henson Company, Federico San Martin.  “We are looking forward to McFarlane toys introducing the characters that defined these classic adventures to our legions of fans around the world.”

“Jim Henson was one of the most visually creative minds, and these incredible movies are just the tip of the iceberg,” said Todd McFarlane, Owner and CEO of McFarlane Toys. “We pride ourselves on our creativity and attention to detail, and to be able to make figures of these iconic characters is something pretty special.”

McFarlane Toys’ Labyrinth Jareth The Goblin King figure will be available at major retailers this November carrying an MSRP: $19.99 (and now available for pre-order, HERE).  The Dark Crystal Jen and Kira figures are slated to release Spring 2018.  For more information about The Jim Henson Company visit www.henson.com. For more information about everything McFarlane Toys, fans are encouraged to check out www.mcfarlane.com as well as the McFarlane social media channels for updates and news.

Sixteen-year-old Gardner Elliot (Asa Butterfield) is the first human born on Mars, living his whole life with a team of scientists on the red planet.  He’s always longed to see Earth to find the father he’s never known and to meet a beautiful street smart girl named Tulsa (Britt Robertson) he’s encountered friends with online.  But when his chance finally comes, doctors discover his heart can’t withstand the Earth’s atmosphere.  Eager to find his father, Gardner and Tulsa escape on a cross-country race against time to unravel the mysteries of how he came to be and where he belongs in the universe.  See the heartfelt and inspiring romantic adventure about how far one person can go for love.  The Space Between Us also stars Gary Oldman, Carla Gugino, BD Wong and Janet Montgomery.

And we’re giving away five copies!

To enter, please send an email with the subject header “SPACE BETWEEN US” to geekcontest @ gmail dot com and answer the following:

The Space Between Us is the second film starring Asa Butterfield set in space.  What was the first?

Please include your name and address (U.S. Residents only. You must be 18 years old).

Only one entry per person and a winner will be chosen at random.

Contest ends at 11:59 PM EST on June 4th, 2017.

Summer’s just beginning and comic solicitations for August are already here.  Thanks to our friends at IDW Publishing, we’re proud to reveal the August solicitations for their Hasbro titles along with some select artwork.

Check out the details below for the upcoming releases of Micronauts, Transformers, G.I. Joe, M.A.S.K. and ROM!

Micronauts: Wrath of Karza #5— Cover A: Alex Ronald—SPOTLIGHT
Cullen Bunn & Jimmy Johnston (w) • Andrew Griffith (a) • Alex Ronald (c)

The final chapter! Baron Karza has conquered Earth! Only the Micronauts and the Transformers stand against him! Little do they know that a new enemy—a much more dangerous enemy—will rise to challenge friend and foe alike! And one hero makes the ultimate sacrifice!
FC • 32 pages • $3.99

Micronauts: Wrath of Karza #5— Cover B: Bart Sears
Cullen Bunn & Jimmy Johnston (w) • Andrew Griffith (a) • Bart Sears (c)
FC • 32 pages • $3.99

Bullet points:

• Don’t miss the cover by Ominous Press creator, Bart Sears, part of our Bart Sears cover month!
• The death-defying finale before the epic crossover First Strike!
• Variant cover by Ray Dillon!

Rom #14—Cover A: Nathan Greno—SPOTLIGHT
Chris Ryall & Christos Gage (w) • David Messina, Guy Dorian & Sal Buscema (a) • Nathan Greno (c)

“Long Roads to Ruin” finale! Is this the last issue of Rom? Yes… and no! First Strike is upon us and out of that momentous event, a new Rom will arise! But before that, the fate of the Knights of the Solstar Order!
FC • 32 pages • $3.99

Rom #14—Cover B: Guy Dorian & Sal Buscema
Chris Ryall & Christos Gage (w) • David Messina, Guy Dorian & Sal Buscema (a) • Guy Dorian & Sal Buscema (c)
FC • 32 pages • $3.99

Rom #14—Cover C: Andrew Griffith
Chris Ryall & Christos Gage (w) • David Messina, Guy Dorian & Sal Buscema (a) • Andrew Griffith (c)
FC • 32 pages • $3.99

Rom #14—Cover D: Leonardo Manco
Chris Ryall & Christos Gage (w) • David Messina, Guy Dorian & Sal Buscema (a) • Leonardo Manco (c)
FC • 32 pages • $3.99

• Bullet points:
• On the road to First Strike!
• Final issue. Wait… what?! The portentous answers lay within!
• Variant cover by Ray Dillon!

Rom Vs. Transformers: Shining Armor #2 (of 5)—Cover A: Alex Milne
John Barber & Christos Gage (w) • Alex Milne (a & c)

Starscream forges an unholy pact with the Dire Wraiths—and Bumblebee and Ultra Magnus are hot on his trail. Unfortunately for them, Rom and the Solstar Knights don’t know the difference between Autobots and Decepticons—and they’re ready to fight all comers!
FC • 32 pages • $3.99

Rom Vs. Transformers: Shining Armor #2 (of 5) —Cover B: Nick Roche
John Barber & Christos Gage (w) • Alex Milne (a) • Nick Roche(c)
FC • 32 pages • $3.99

Rom Vs. Transformers: Shining Armor #2 (of 5)—Cover C: Bart Sears
John Barber & Christos Gage (w) • Alex Milne (a) • Bart Sears (c)
FC • 32 pages • $3.99

Bullet points:

• An all-star lineup of Christos Gage (Rom), John Barber (Optimus Prime), and Alex Milne (More Than Meets the Eye) tell the never-before-revealed secret history of Rom and the Transformers!
• Don’t miss the cover by Ominous Press creator, Bart Sears, part of our Bart Sears cover month!

Optimus Prime #10—Cover A: Kei Zama
John Barber (w) • Livio Ramondelli & Kei Zama (a) • Kei Zama (c)

THE RETURN OF GALVATRON THE BARBARIAN! Optimus Prime meets with Alpha Trion, the ancient sage, who reveals a tale of Cybertron’s earliest days, when the original Thirteen Primes united the world. But even then, the warrior known as Galvatron was a wild card… shaping the future in unexpected ways.
FC • 32 pages • $3.99

Optimus Prime #10—Cover B: Casey W. Coller
John Barber (w) • Livio Ramondelli & Kei Zama (a) • Casey W. Coller (c)
FC • 32 pages • $3.99

Optimus Prime #10—Cover C: Andrew Griffith
John Barber (w) • Livio Ramondelli & Kei Zama (a) • Andrew Griffith (c)
FC • 32 pages • $3.99

Bullet points:

• Leads directly into this month’s First Strike event!
• Variant cover by Andrew MacLean!

Transformers: Lost Light #9—Cover A: Jack Lawrence
James Roberts (w) • Priscilla Tramontano (a) • Jack Lawrence (c)

All sides converge on Troja Major as the race to unlock the secrets of a unique Cybertronian reaches its desperate, violent conclusion. As old secrets are revealed, Nautica must pay the ultimate price—by resorting to the ultimate currency.
FC • 32 pages • $3.99

Transformers: Lost Light #9—Cover B: Nick Roche
James Roberts (w) • Priscilla Tramontano (a) • Nick Roche (c)
FC • 32 pages • $3.99

Transformers: Lost Light #9—Cover C: Alex Milne
James Roberts (w) • Priscilla Tramontano (a) • Alex Milne (c)
FC • 32 pages • $3.99

Bullet points:

• Variant cover by Andrew MacLean!

G.I. JOE: A Real American Hero, Vol. 18
Larry Hama (w) • S L Gallant (a & c)

The classic series continues from writer Larry Hama! As Cobra Commander continues his scheme to start the Cobra World Order, Destro and Baroness begin to bring their own contingency into play. Collects issues #236–240.
TPB • FC • $17.99 • 128 pages • ISBN: 978-1-63140-959-2
Expected in-store date: 9/6/17

Bullet points:

• Larry Hama’s legendary run of Real American Hero steams on!
• Advance solicited for September release!

G.I. JOE #9—Cover A: Aaron Conley—SPOTLIGHT
Aubrey Sitterson (w) • Giannis Milonogiannis (a) • Aaron Conley (c)

It all comes to a head for G.I. Joe! Can Roadblock and his team escape the underground in time? And is Scarlett prepared for all hell to break loose?
FC • 32 pages • $3.99

G.I. JOE #9—Cover B: Giannis Milonogiannis
Aubrey Sitterson (w) • Giannis Milonogiannis (a & c)
FC • 32 pages • $3.99

G.I. JOE #9—Cover C: Bart Sears
Aubrey Sitterson (w) • Giannis Milonogiannis (a) • Bart Sears (c)
FC • 32 pages • $3.99

Bullet points:

• Don’t miss the cover by Ominous Press creator, Bart Sears, part of our Bart Sears cover month!
• The pulse-pounding final issue before this month’s First Strike crossover!
• Variant cover by Dylan Burnett!

G.I. JOE: A Real American Hero #243— Cover A: S L Gallant
Larry Hama (w) • S L Gallant (a & c)

When the opposing forces of good and evil clash, the stakes are at their highest and danger is at its greatest! It’s winner take all—but when the smoke clears, who will rise victorious?
FC • 32 pages • $3.99

G.I. JOE: A Real American Hero #243— Cover B: John Royle
Larry Hama (w) • S L Gallant (a) • John Royle (c)
FC • 32 pages • $3.99

M.A.S.K.: Mobile Armored Strike Kommand #10— Cover A: Abel Ciccero—SPOTLIGHT
Brandon Easton (w) • Drew Moss (a) • Abel Ciccero (c)

In the final issue of M.A.S.K., Matt Trakker loses the trust of his friends and teammates, causing the group to disband. With mounting threats on the horizon, Mobile Armored Strike Kommand is no longer on the front lines, plunging them all into an uncertain future.
FC • 32 pages • $3.99

M.A.S.K.: Mobile Armored Strike Kommand #10— Cover B: Bart Sears
Brandon Easton (w) • Drew Moss (a) • Bart Sears (c)
FC • 32 pages • $3.99

M.A.S.K.: Mobile Armored Strike Kommand #10— Cover C: Nicoletta Baldari
Brandon Easton (w) • Drew Moss (a) • Nicoletta Baldari (c)
FC • 32 pages • $3.99

Bullet points:

• Don’t miss the cover by Ominous Press creator, Bart Sears, part of our Bart Sears cover month!
• The jaw-dropping finale before the epic crossover First Strike!
• Variant cover by Santipérez!

For more details visit idwpublishing.com

Geek is a word that has been used for decades and it was ultimately used to describe people who are clever but why should dating a geek be any different to dating someone who is not a geek? Geeks are no different to every other person on the planet. They often have a different sense of humour and a different outlook on life and that makes dating a geek a hell of a lot of fun! Whether you know a geek or have met a geek on a flirting site, you can be sure that you are in for a treat. So, why should you date a geek?

Ultimate Loyalty

Geeks are known to be unbelievably loyal, in the same way that they are loyal to their favourite TV show or computer program. So, imagine how loyal a geeky person becomes when they meet someone they have feelings for? When it become serious you can be sure that you will get their undivided attention and that means that you will always be a main priority.

Geeks Care

Have you ever noticed how caring geeks are? They care for their gadgets or something they collect and that means that they will certainly care for you in every way. This is of course, a different kind of care because they will have feelings for you but you can be sure that they will make sure you have what you need and that you are always fine!

Geeks solve problems instead of creating them!

Geeks love to solve problems, it is what they do and the reason why they are classed as a geek. If a problem arises, it will be solved, it is as simple as that. So, you can be sure, that when you date a geek, they will not look to cause you problems or even become a problem and that offers a lot of comfort because dating other people often comes with a huge number of problems!

Geeks always listen

Geeks are always working and their brains simply do not stop and that involves thinking about you. However, they will listen to your problems (and find a solution) for hours and hours because they also care and that is always a positive. Sometimes, people will drift away but when a geek listens, they listen and take everything on board because that is how they know so much about so many different things!

Geeks get creative

Geeks are known to have a streak of creativity in them and this is not about having the ability to paint because it a creativity that is rather useful. They can create cool, geeky things that others simply would never think of and that makes them different in a very good way.

They always put the effort in

Geeks are committed to the cause and when the time comes to purchase you a gift, they will continue to look for that gift until they succeed. They enter this kind of mode where they seek and find and this means they will read reviews and forums and do their research to ensure that the gift they purchase is right for you. They look for perfection and that is not a bad trait to have!

They love to learn

Geeks love to learn new things which can enhance any relationship. When you consider how many questions you ask, you will often not get the answer but you can be sure that geeks will find the answer and they will tell you. This ability to learn is not just great in the traditional sense because their learning also extends to intimate situations which can benefit you.

They are adaptable

Everyone has their own way of dealing with things. You may have found yourself in certain situations in the past where they person you are with reacts in the only way they know. When it comes to geeks, they know how to take in the environment they are in and then adapt to fit into it.

Easy pleasing

Geeks are not materialistic like a lot of people. They are not always waiting for the next gift because they simply have what they need (and that includes you). However, when it does come to a gift it is often very simple because a hug will often suffice but if you do feel the need to purchase a gift you will instantly know what their interests are, so anything related to that will do the trick!

They hate sports

It is very common for sports to be third person in many relationships but when you date a geek, this is very rarely the case. Many geeks are not interested in sport and this means that you won’t have to sit there and watch their chosen sport for hours on end. You might have to watch a robot wars boxset every now and again but that really is a small price to pay!

Any James Bond fan worth their weight in gold bullion knows the order and year of release for every Bond movie, and can name the actors who have portrayed Bond and in which films. He or she is expected to know the abbreviations for all Bond titles (used liberally within, so beware), and the true devotees will be able to explain to you why Never Say Never Again and the 1967 version of Casino Royale are not considered to be a part of the official Bond canon.

When introducing James Bond to a virgin viewer, it’s essential to first explain that there are two types of James Bond movie: one sort of 007 film where you’d expect to see some blood, sweat, and tears with hard hitting action, Ian Fleming-esque intrigue, and perhaps not so much gee-whiz gadgetry; and the other sort where Bond’s tuxedo remains unruffled and his martini un-spilled, and the action is more comical, oftentimes with ludicrous trinkets, silly vehicular hijinks, and henchpersons with really naughty sounding names.

Beyond this gritty/campy polarity inherent in the Bond series, the elements of each film are typically the same: picturesque locales; gorgeous people; fabulous fashions; wild cutting-edge gadgetry; expensive production values; spectacular practical sets; inventive white-knuckle action and stunts; witty humor and banter; and, more often than not, a memorable theme song along with a lush symphonic score. All of the Bond movies are essentially the identical story and share these key ingredients in varying amounts—plus some prominent product placement—but the enduring legacy of production company EON is they’ve never been known to skimp on production values. Every dollar is always up there on the screen, and it’s one of the myriad reasons 007 fans view the Bond movies again and again and why the series continues to attract devoted fans across the globe.

But in what order should a new viewer watch the movies? Chronological order has some historical value, all the better to trace the evolution of every aspect of the series, but that seems so clichéd.

During one of my many James Bond 007 laserdisc viewing parties in college, a dorm-mate mentioned I knew so much about 007 I could teach a course on it. That may never be the case, but if it ever came to pass the syllabus would necessarily have cram the entire series into a whole semester—and the only way to do that would be to double up and watch two films back-to-back every week.

In attempting to pair off the films of each 007 double feature, I challenged myself to choose two 007 films produced at least ten years apart, all the better for every double bill to star different Bond actors.

WEEK 1: Dr. No (1962) v Live and Let Die (1973)

Both pictures take proper care of introductions—Sean Connery debuts in the series’ first film Dr. No and Roger Moore assumes the role in Bond #8 Live and Let Die—and both movies are relatively small scale and no-nonsense missions compared to some of the more ludicrous 007 affairs. Thematic link: Both films are set in Jamaica.

WEEK 2: Moonraker (1979) v Goldfinger (1964)

Frontloading the prototypical Sean Connery Bond and juxtaposing it with the prototypical Roger Moore Bond offers some interesting contrasts. Goldfinger is relatively small scale and is considered to be the very best 007 movie bar none, and the film (along with its successor Thunderball) coincided with the height of global Bond Mania. Moonraker, on the other hand, is one of the more outlandish and luxurious 007 affairs and, despite its comparatively phenomenal box office success, is generally derided by fans and critics as one of the sillier, bottom-rung pictures. They share many Bond touchstones: both are gadget-laden and have “lasers” galore; both feature theme songs sung by Shirley Bassey; both have evocative one-word titles; both are scored by the great maestro John Barry; and both showcase some of longtime 007 production designer Ken Adam’s finest work. Marvel at Connery’s supreme confidence in Goldfinger, just before he’d start to sour on the whole paparazzi/fame/can’t-be-taken-seriously-in-any-other-movie-role aspect of being typecast as James Bond.

WEEK 3: Diamonds Are Forever (1971) v Die Another Day (2002)

Both films represent the ends of their respective eras: Diamonds Are Forever is Connery’s final EON-produced Bond movie, and the producers went another way after Pierce Brosnan’s fourth mission in Die Another Day. Pay particular attention to the evolution of the series’ visual effects, as both movies prominently feature space-based diamond laser satellites (both films are clearly in the “ludicrous Bond” camp).

WEEK 4: The Man with the Golden Gun (1974) v Tomorrow Never Dies (1997)

The Man with the Golden Gun, and Tomorrow Never Dies are both similar 2nd-assignment pictures for their respective Bond actors, and the movies were made in quick succession to strike while the iron of the new 007 actor’s casting—and the proportional popular and critical success of their debuts—was still hot. Die-hard fans tend to heap a lot of scorn on The Man with the Golden Gun, but it remains one of my personal favorites, notably for Christopher Lee’s turn as the snobby bad guy, a sweeping John Barry score, and more than the usual amount of risqué innuendo, playful perversion, and subtle kink in the script. Tomorrow Never Dies is sleek and efficient, if formulaic and uninspired—I suspect it’s very much how a 007 film would play if it one were ever to be made completely on automatic. Weird coincidence: both movies were partially filmed in Phuket, Thailand, which was wiped out by a tsunami in 2004.

WEEK 5: The Spy Who Loved Me (1977) v The Living Daylights (1987)

This double-feature offers lots of Soviet spies; plenty of Fleming-esque intrigue with strong women used, alas, as pawns; picaresque layovers in north Africa; and both movies feature deliriously tricked-out automobiles. The Spy Who Loved Me represents the popular and critical height of the Roger Moore era, and the flick is so supremely entertaining you hardly notice it’s a remake of You Only Live Twice. Timothy Dalton had me at “hello,” and his introduction as Bond in The Living Daylights is a relatively grounded globe-trotting 007 adventure, much more in the spirit of the original novels and—trivia alert—reportedly written to be Pierce Brosnan’s debut before NBC reactivated his “Remington Steele” contract.

WEEK 6: GoldenEye (1995) v Casino Royale (2006)

Both GoldenEye and Casino Royale are “introduction” movies that feature their all-important first impressions by their respective Bond actors—Pierce Brosnan finally bowing as Bond in GoldenEye nearly a decade after producers picked him then lost him for The Living Daylights; and Daniel Craig making a fiery debut as a rough-around-the-edges James Bond when he first earns his license to kill. Both movies are directed by journeyman Martin Campbell, doing career-best work. GoldenEye, like Octopussy, is a curious blend of ludicrous Bond and gritty Bond, it tries to make Bond into a more complex hero by throwing in some regret along with the best-chum-turned-rogue plotline, but any 007 caper that features space-based laser satellites and a henchwoman who kills with her thighs definitely falls more comfortably into the first category. Casino Royale is the opposite in many crucial ways, mostly gadget-free, and with grounded characters embroiled in a relatively small-scale plot, yet one just “big” enough to warrant the assignment of somebody like Bond.

WEEK 7: A View to a Kill (1985) v You Only Live Twice (1967)

The celebrated co-stars in both films are the awesome cavernous subterranean lairs (Ken Adam did the spectacular volcano lair in You Only Live Twice and Peter Lamont created the vast mine shaft in A View to a Kill). Both films of this particular 007 double feature highlight the goofier, campier aspects of the series. Both are scored by the best Bond composer ever, John Barry. And, alas, both films feature tiring 007s, with both Moore in A View to a Kill and Connery in You Only Live Twice seemingly eager to strap up the holster.

WEEK 8: License to Kill (1989) v Quantum of Solace (2008)

Both of these 007 pictures are down-and-dirty affairs that have Bond grappling with a personal vendetta. While Dalton’s debut The Living Daylights was intended for Brosnan, the 007 of License to Kill is the definitive Dalton portrayal of Bond as a hard case with true grit. Way before Daniel Craig took Bond to new emotional and psychological depths, Dalton was playing a grounded flesh-and-blood Bond who was so much more faithful to the pages of Ian Fleming than Roger Moore’s debonair spy it practically gave audiences whiplash. Viewing both License to Kill and Quantum of Solace back-to-back also offers a unique case study in how the screenwriters’ strikes of 1988 and 2007–2008 impacted their respective screenplays.

WEEK 9: On Her Majesty’s Secret Service (1969) v For Your Eyes Only (1981)

Witness here the evolution of John Glen from editor of On Her Majesty’s Secret Service to director of For Your Eyes Only. No other director has made as many 007 pictures as John Glen and he got his start in On Her Majesty’s Secret Service as an editor and second unit director, working under director Peter Hunt, who himself had edited the first three Bond films and made his debut as a Bond director with On Her Majesty’s Secret Service. Thematic link: the pre-credits sequence of For Your Eyes Only acknowledges the fateful conclusion of On Her Majesty’s Secret Service with a nod to James Bond’s tragically departed wife, Tracy.

WEEK 10: Skyfall (2012) v The World is Not Enough (1999)

Both films are pivotal third movies where the actor as 007 finally clicks with the audience. Both movies showcase the two longest pre-credits sequences in the series. Both films are from respected British directors who have made riveting dramas but with whom one normally wouldn’t associate an epic-size adventure film on the scale of a 007 picture. A contrast in villainy: Robert Carlyle in The World is Not Enough makes for one of the series’ most understated bad guys (it’s really a diversion; the film’s true villain is the one Bond least suspects); while Javier Bardem in Skyfall sinks his snarly teeth into his bad guy role with delightful relish…perhaps a bit too much relish.

WEEK 11: Octopussy (1983) v From Russia With Love (1963)

Both films portray two distinctly different views of post-Cold War Anglo-Soviet relations and paranoia, and both movies feature pivotal sequences set aboard speeding passenger trains. Combined, they offer a détente-flavored double-bill filled with secret decoders, atomic bombs, nifty gadgets, deadly henchmen, and lunatic Russkies. This double feature offers a great contrast of the straight-faced gritty style of early Bond movies versus the wink-nudge approach to some of the sillier Bond capers.

WEEK 12: Thunderball (1965) v Spectre (2015)

Both Thunderball and Spectre are sprawling fourth films that outdo their predecessors not only by having Bond face an exponentially escalated global threat, but also by raising the bar in the areas of production value, stunts, and special effects. And also running time: Thunderball was the first 007 movie to break the 2-hour barrier; the latest film Spectre sets a new record at just shy of two-and-a-half hours.

Though they’re not part of the official EON-produced 007 canon, no James Bond syllabus would be complete without…

Week 13: Never Say Never Again (1983) v Casino Royale (1967)

In Never Say Never Again it’s great to see Sean Connery back in the role after having sworn it off twice before, and the script—a not-particularly-imaginative remake of Thunderball—offers a few wry winks at an aging Bond not so quick on his aching feet anymore. The lava-lamp explosion that is Casino Royale (1967) is an unwieldly and unfunny comic “adaptation” of the Ian Fleming novel that bears more resemblance to Mike Myers’ Austin Powers films than any of the iconic James Bond pictures produced by EON Productions. Both films show what happens when competing producers/filmmakers obtain certain copyrights on specific elements of one particular Ian Fleming property.

Universal Pictures announced today that its series of films reviving the studio’s classic monster characters for a new generation will be known as “Dark Universe.”  The motion logo for the new initiative features a musical theme composed by Danny Elfman and will debut in theaters preceding The Mummy, which will be released on June 9.  The announcement includes details of the enterprise relaunching Universal’s iconic characters into modern cinema, as well as confirmations of superstar cast and that Academy Award winner Bill Condon will direct Bride of Frankenstein.

Dark Universe was begun by core creatives Alex Kurtzman, who also serves as director and producer of The Mummy, the inaugural film in the new classic monster series, and The Mummy producer Chris Morgan, who recently saw The Fate of the Furious, the sixth film he wrote for the Fast & Furious franchise, claim the biggest opening in history at the global box office when it opened on April 14.  Also joining the enterprise to inspire and entertain a new generation are such visionary talents as Oscar winner Christopher McQuarrie (Mission: Impossible series, The Usual Suspects) and David Koepp (War of the Worlds, Jurassic Park).

“We take enormous pride in the creativity and passion that has inspired the reimagining of Universal’s iconic monsters and promise audiences we will expand this series strategically,” said Donna Langley, Chairman, Universal Pictures.  “The enterprise masterfully developed by Chris and Alex will allow each subsequent chapter the right time to find the perfect cast, filmmakers and vision to fulfill it.  As we launch Dark Universe with Danny’s provocative theme before The Mummy and collaborate with a brilliant filmmaker like Bill to weave the story of a very modern woman in a very classic tale, we feel confident we’re off to a tremendous start.”

“When Universal approached us with the idea of reimagining these classic characters, we recognized the responsibility of respecting their legacy while bringing them into new and modern adventures,” said Kurtzman and Morgan.  “The studio and our fellow creative collaborators have championed and challenged us as we’ve begun to spin the web of Dark Universe.  It’s our hope these movies will engross longtime fans and spark the imaginations of brand-new ones.”

From his first score on Tim Burton’s Pee-wee’s Big Adventure and his iconic theme for The Simpsons—not to mention his collaborations with filmmakers including Ang Lee, David O. Russell, Sam Raimi, Rob Marshall, Guillermo del Toro, Joss Whedon and Peter Jackson—four-time Academy Award nominee Danny Elfman’s inimitable compositions have vaulted him into one of the most versatile and accomplished composers in history.

“I grew up on monsters,” said Elfman.  “Monsters were my life, and these iconic Universal monsters were almost like my family.  I simply wouldn’t be the same without them.  When I got the opportunity to compose a theme for the Dark Universe logo, of course I jumped at it.  What could be more fun than connecting to this world that has always been so deeply imbedded in my psyche?  I tried to find something that was new but still had some connections with the past—the origins—at least in a subtle way.  Something that was looking forward to a creative, fertile, imaginative future that Dark Universe will enter, and at the same time saluting the heritage of the tragic heroes (or anti-heroes) of my childhood.  To the Monsters!!!!”

In another exciting development, Oscar winner Bill Condon will follow his worldwide smash Beauty and the Beast, one of this year’s biggest hits—which crossed $1 billion at the global box office and became the most successful musical of all time—by directing Bride of Frankenstein, from a screenplay by Koepp.  The next film from Dark Universe, Bride of Frankenstein will be released on Thursday, February 14, 2019.

In a related move, Universal announced that it will not release a Dark Universe film as previously planned for April 13, 2018, and that Bride will instead be the next chapter in the unspooling series of movies following this year’s The Mummy.  The actress chosen to play the lead role in Condon’s version of this timeless story will be announced soon.

“I’m very excited to bring a new Bride of Frankenstein to life on screen, particularly since James Whale’s original creation is still so potent,” stated Condon.  “The Bride of Frankenstein remains the most iconic female monster in film history, and that’s a testament to Whale’s masterpiece—which endures as one of the greatest movies ever made.”

Dark Universe films will be distinguished by performances from some of the most talented and popular global superstars stepping into iconic roles, as well as electric new talents whose careers are starting to break through.  While previously announced, the stars of both imminent and future Dark Universe projects are gathered for the first time in the attached photo: The Invisible Man and Frankenstein’s Monster will be played by, respectively, blockbuster icon Johnny Depp and Academy Award winner Javier Bardem, who appear together later this summer in Pirates of the Caribbean: Dead Men Tell No Tales.  Those actors join superstar Tom Cruise as soldier of fortune Nick Morton and Oscar winner Russell Crowe as Dr. Henry Jekyll, who lead the all-star cast of The Mummy, along with Sofia Boutella, the actress who embodies the title role in that film.

At its organizing principle, Dark Universe films are connected by a mysterious multi-national organization known as Prodigium.  Led by the enigmatic and brilliant Dr. Henry Jekyll, Prodigium’s mission is to track, study and—when necessary—destroy evil embodied in the form of monsters in our world.  Working outside the aegis of any government, and with practices concealed by millennia of secrecy, Prodigium protects the public from knowledge of the evil that exists just beyond the thin membrane of civilized society…and will go to any length to contain it.  To learn more about Dark Universe and Prodigium, visit www.DarkUniverse.com and www.WelcometoProdigium.com.

Welcome to a new world of gods and monsters.  Welcome to Dark Universe.

Unlock the mystery and dive into small town secrets as Warner Bros. Home Entertainment releases Riverdale: The Complete First Season on DVD on August 15, 2017. Premiering with 2.4 million viewers, The CW’s top new show across all major demos is created by Roberto Aguirre-Sacasa (Glee, Big Love), produced by Greg Berlanti (The Flash, Supergirl, DC’s Legends of Tomorrow, Blindspot), and stars KJ Apa (Shortland Street), Lili Reinhart (The Kings of Summer), Camila Mendes (Randy Doe), Cole Sprouse (The Suite Life of Zack and Cody), Marisol Nichols (Big Momma’s House 2), Madelaine Petsch (The Curse of Sleeping Beauty), Ashleigh Murray (Deidra & Laney Rob a Train), Mädchen Amick (Twin Peaks), and Luke Perry (Beverly Hills 90210). Roberto Aguirre-Sacasa is also an executive producer, along with Sarah Schechter (Arrow, Blindspot, DC’s Legends of Tomorrow), and Jon Goldwater (Publisher/CEO, Archie Comics). The release contains all 13 gripping episodes from the first season, and includes new bonus content, and never-before-seen deleted scenes, and a gag reel. Riverdale: The Complete First Season is priced to own at $39.99 SRP. Riverdale: The Complete First Season is also available to own on Digital HD via purchase from digital retailers.

Riverdale: The Complete First Season will also be available on Blu-ray courtesy of Warner Archive Collection. The Blu-ray release includes all bonus features on the DVD and is also arriving August 15, 2017. Warner Archive Blu-ray releases are found at Amazon.com and all online retailers.

Based on the characters from Archie Comics, Riverdale gives a subversive take on small-town life. Things aren’t always what you expect in Riverdale. As a new school year begins, the town is reeling from the tragic death of high school golden boy Jason Blossom. The summer’s events made all-American teen Archie Andrews realize that he wants to pursue a career in music, but his fractured friendship with Jughead Jones, and Josie McCoy’s focus on her own band leaves Archie without a mentor. Meanwhile, girl-next-door Betty Cooper is not ready to reveal her true feelings for Archie, and new student, Veronica Lodge, has an undeniable spark with Betty’s crush. And then there’s Cheryl Blossom, Riverdale’s queen bee, who stirs up trouble amongst Archie, Betty and Veronica. But is Cheryl hiding something about the mysterious death of her twin brother, Jason? Riverdale may look like a quiet, sleepy town, but there’s so much more to the story.

“Riverdale is full of nostalgic Archie elements, but this all-new series brings viewers mystery, seduction, and corruption; and would probably make the original gang blush,” said Rosemary Markson, WBHE Senior Vice President, Television Marketing. “We’re thrilled to offer fans this dark, subversive pleasure – along with exclusive DVD and Blu-ray bonus content – just in time for the second season premiere on The CW.”

SPECIAL FEATURES

• Riverdale: 2016 Comic-Con Panel
• Riverdale: The New Normal
• Riverdale: The Ultimate Sin
• I Got You – musical piece
• These Are Moments I Remember – musical piece
• Gag Reel
• Deleted Scenes

McFarlane Toys has signed a toy license deal with CBS Consumer Products to create figures, role play weapons and accessories for the new Star Trek: Discovery television series. In addition, McFarlane Toys will also create merchandise from the entire Star Trek universe, ranging from the iconic classic television series Star Trek: The Original Series to the legendary films.

The initial line will highlight two of the most iconic characters in the Star Trek universe with articulated 7-inch figures of U.S.S. Enterprise Captain James T. Kirk from Star Trek: The Original Series and U.S.S. Enterprise NCC-1701-D Captain Jean-Luc Picard from Star Trek: The Next Generation. These figures will debut in window box collector packaging and feature iconic accessories such as phasers and communicators.

Various characters from the highly-anticipated Star Trek: Discovery television series and other adaptations will follow.

“Star Trek is hands down one of the most groundbreaking and innovative franchises in the history of entertainment,” said Todd McFarlane, Owner and CEO of McFarlane Toys. “We plan on carrying that forward with our upcoming toy lines, giving fans a fresh and detailed look, that their favorite characters deserve.”

“We are excited to sign McFarlane Toys as the first licensee for Star Trek: Discovery. Their commitment to quality and dedication to fans is the perfect combination to bring this lineup of products to life,” said Veronica Hart, Senior Vice President of CBS Consumer Products. “We know Star Trek fans worldwide are looking forward to it as much as we are.”

McFarlane’s Star Trek toys will be available in the Spring of 2018 at major retailers worldwide starting at an MSRP: $19.99. For more information about Star Trek, visit www.startrek.com. For more information about everything McFarlane Toys, fans are encouraged to check out www.mcfarlane.com as well as the McFarlane social media channels for updates and news.

For over 20 years McFarlane Toys has produced toys for various entertainment properties, and is renowned for its attention to detail and unmistakable craftsmanship. This collaboration with Star Trek will undoubtedly give fans all over the world new and unique collectables that will be “true to life” replicas of both legendary and new characters from the Star Trek franchise.

Born from the mind of Gene Roddenberry, the original Star Trek series debuted on September 8, 1966 and aired for three seasons — a short run that belied the influence it would have for generations. It spawned six more television series and 13 feature films spanning the course of half a century.  Its newest chapter, Star Trek: Discovery, will feature a new ship, new characters, and new missions, while embracing the same ideology and hope for the future that inspired a generation of dreamers and doers. The series will premiere on the CBS Television Network with all subsequent episodes available on CBS All Access, the Network’s digital subscription video on demand and live streaming service, and will be distributed concurrently by CBS Studios International on Netflix in 188 countries and in Canada on Bell Media’s Space channel and OTT service CraveTV.

Produced by Andrew Freedman
Written and Directed by Ken Wardrop
Featuring Joe Cristiano

Mom & Me is currently in limited release and is available On Demand

He’s back on the streets… back in action… and cleaning up the town! T.J. Hooker: The Complete Series comes to DVD in a 20-disc set from Shout! Factory on July 18, and is available now for pre-order on Amazon.com and Shoutfactory.com.

The legendary William Shatner (Star Trek, Boston Legal) stars as a tough-as-nails officer of the law in T.J. Hooker: The Complete Series.

Sgt. Thomas Jefferson Hooker is a veteran cop with the LCPD who has the smarts and the skills to take on the city’s toughest criminals. Along with his partners in blue, cocky Vince Romano (Adrian Zmed, Bachelor Party, Grease 2), comely Stacy Sheridan (Heather Locklear, Melrose Place, Dynasty) and steadfast Jim Corrigan (James Darren, The Guns Of Navarone), protects and serves with all the courage he can muster… and he’s taking out the city’s trash… one perp at a time!

A popular TV favorite throughout its five-season run from 1982 to 1986, T.J. Hooker delivers all the action, excitement, and pure unfiltered Shatnerian brilliance one could ask for. The show also boasts a line-up of terrific guest stars, including Vic Tayback, Richard Moll, Lisa Hartman, Jerry Lee Lewis, David Caruso, Leonard Nimoy, Ray Wise, Dennis Franz, Jim Brown, Debrah Farentino, Tori Spelling, Delta Burke, Richard Hatch, Sharon Stone, Heather Thomas, and more.

Complete your collection of a cop series classic that – whether you watched it in its original run or are a newcomer – grabbed you Hooker, line, and sinker.

Future Quest
Written by Jeff Parker
Illustrated by Evan “Doc” Shaner,
Ron Randall, Craig Rousseau, Steve Rude
Volume 1 (collecting issues #1-6) is available now
Volume 2 (collecting issues #7-12) arrives 10/3
All issues available digitally via Comixology
Published by DC Comics

Future Quest is a cross over extravaganza that brings together a bevy of Hanna-Barbara characters across twelve issues.

The series, which was originally published throughout 2016, was most recently teased in the crossover comic, Adam Strange/Future Quest Special #1. There a haggard Adam is zapped to the present where Johnny and the gang are waiting with woolly mammoths. Yup, it gets a bit wacky.

The series focuses on the Jonny Quest crew and everyone that Hanna-Barbara can throw at it including The Herculoids, Birdman, Space Ghost, Mightor and Ug, Frankenstein Jr., and The Impossibles. It’s collected in two volumes, each containing half (six books) of the series.

Gonna Go Back and Forth In Time

Mysterious vortexes begin to open around Earth, bringing together creatures from the past and future. As if dinosaurs tromping around the planet isn’t bad enough, robots, space ships and super powered people start crashing down as well.

The main baddies early in the series are the evil super-smart scientist Dr. Zin, the sexy Jezebel Jade (yes, that’s her name), and the fearsome and appropriately named conglomerate of nasties known simply as F.E.A.R.

Behind these vortexes are a mysterious power that, naturally, an evil scientist would love to harness.

As it turns out, Space Ghost has been battling a creature called Omnikron across the Universe until he and his cohorts are smacked around in time and space.

This puts the Quest team at odds with a lot including dinosaurs, numbered black-clad minions and killer spider robots.

Luckily, as each band of heroes materializes, they get a decent chunk of story that gives a bit of background as to their abilities and origins. (This also lends itself well to multiple covers for each comic.)

Sometimes, such as Birdman and Herculoids, their stories take up an entire comic while others, like The Impossibles, get smaller stories peppered through multiple books.

As the story progresses, an amorphous, globulous nasty creature called Omnikron becomes the true evil, trying to consume everyone and everything on the planet. This forces all the teams – and even a villain, of course – to combine their powers and abilities to try and save the world.

Nostalgic Good Times for All

While Jonny Quest is quite the namesake,  Space Ghost and Birdman are likely the most recognizable of the bunch for many, thanks primarily to the wacky cartoon treatments they received in the past few years (Space Ghost: Coast to Coast and Harvey Birdman: Attorney at Law). Wisely, they sparingly show Space Ghost in the early books, using him more of a tease to the larger story. Instead, teenage sidekicks Jan and Jace, along with space monkey Blip, play more vital parts early on.

Even hokier elements of the H-B franchise were handled well across these books.

Take The Impossibles, for example. The original shorts were complete silliness with puns, poor jokes and really wacked-out villains (Paper Doll man?!). Here they get an all-new origin story as teenagers making a superhero TV series and also add a new, female character to their troop.

Even Frankenstein Jr. gets an upgrade here, steering clear of the robot-as-dumb-wisecracking-smash-a-lot-superbot cliché. This also adds yet another kid hero to the lot with Buzz Conroy, making this possible the biggest band of under-age heroing this side of Teen Titans.

Mightor the mighty club-wielding warrior gets an update as well with a bit of a Shazam twist.

Simply put, this is one fun mashup.

Not only does it appeal to older readers like myself who actually recall looking forward to watching many Hanna-Barbara cartoons on Saturday mornings, but it also has enough energy and story elements to keep new young readers interested as well.

A. Strange Diversion

As mentioned earlier, Adam Strange is crossed into the Questverse for one book (Part of DC’s Hanna-Barbera crossover specials, but not included in these collections). This makes complete sense as the modus operandi for the Strange stories is that he is forcibly pulled across space by a mysterious beam.  Space-time vortexes, Zeta-beams, pretty much the same thing.

Long-time fans of Green Lantern will recognize Adam Strange from his periodic inserts into the Hal Jordan-era comics. Others might recall his prime placement in Mystery in Space for about 50 issues.

He was introduced in the Showcase series – as was the original Green Lantern – as an archeologist tossed into space (and maybe time) by a Zeta beam that forced him to onto another planet where he was called upon to help with whatever nastiness was going on.

His stories were always packed with action and highly reminiscent of Buck Rogers with a hint of Rocketeer.

In later incarnations, Strange became a STAR Labs scientist and… blah, blah, blah. What it all comes down to is he’s a smart dude who wears a jet-pack and wields a laser gun. He’s cool and gets stuff done.

All this would otherwise place him quite nicely within the Future Quest story as smarty-pants scientists who can deal with oddly mixed creatures using their brains and arse-kicking action are key to the Quests’ quest in Future Quest. I suppose adding one more to the series would have come dangerously close to tipping the fun factor into jumpy-shark waters.