Following on from Juan Ortiz’s fabulous Original Series poster collection, this latest treat for art-loving Trek fans features 178 posters that capture the essence of The Next Generation. Inspired by indie-film and black-light posters, comics and rock/punk culture and showcasing Ortiz’s unique creative vision, this new installment of original Trek art is sure to delight fans worldwide.

And we’re giving away three copies!

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

Who are the only two cast members to appear in every episode of the series?

Please include your name, and address (U.S. 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 September 24th, 2017.

All images ™ & © CBS Studios Inc. STAR TREK and related marks
and logos are trademarks of CBS Studios Inc. All Rights Reserved.

It’s been wonderful seeing the resurgence of 80s fantasy.  Films that were critical and financial failures at the time – like Krull, Legend, or Masters of the Universe – are finally receiving the respect they deserve.

Historically, 80s fantasy films are fascinating for their mix of special effects techniques, some old and some new.

Because monsters are so important in fantasy films, and because monsters often appear at the climax of the action, special effects technicians – model builders, costume designers, computer programmers, stop-motion animators – were called upon to use their skills to the utmost.

Let’s take a look at six films in which these technicians aimed high and hit their mark.

For the list, I wanted to include not just great monsters, but monsters brought to life via different types of special effects.

I cover each of these films in some depth in my Fantasy Films of the 1980s ebook, but I hope you’ll enjoy my comparisons below.

DRAGONSLAYER (1981)

What’s a list of fantasy monsters without a dragon?

Most of us fantasy fans love dragons and prefer to see them triumph in battles with mawkish goody-goody knights.  But there is a place in fantasy for nasty, cruel dragons as well as noble, misunderstood ones.

Paramount’s Dragonslayer offers one of the best evil dragons in fantasy film history.  This dragon – a.k.a. Vermithrax Pejorative – gets augmented by some of the first CGI effects in a feature film.

The dragon itself is mostly stop-motion, but the cameras were computer-programmed to keep their shutters open extra long or to move slightly during filming, creating a subtle blur.  This “go-motion” technique made the stop-motion much smoother than normal.

David Bunnet, Phil Tippett, Danny Lee, Brian Johnson, Chris Walas, and Ken Ralston were the main designers, builders, and animators.

Roger Ebert called the dragon “one of the meanest, ugliest, most reprehensible creatures I’ve ever seen in a film.”

Some folks complained about Dragonslayer‘s story or pacing, but no one complained about Dragonslayer‘s dragon.

CLASH OF THE TITANS (1981)

This original Clash of the Titans actually feels like a 60s peplum though it’s technically an 80s fantasy film.  Its monsters come to us in traditional stop-motion, in fact the last stop-motion creations from legendary animator Ray Harryhausen.

Half a dozen stop-motion creatures come to life in the film, and my favorite is usually Bubo the mechanical owl, but the best monsters would be Medusa and the Kraken at the conclusion.

Though the Kraken is gigantic, the Medusa is most people’s favorite.  She’s hideous.  Not only does she have the expected snakes for hair – she also has a snake body!  She’s like a mutated mermaid.

It’s not Harryhausen’s smoothest work, but it might be his scariest.

One reason Medusa looks so convincing on screen is that she was a large model (two feet long) and shot mostly on a life-size set rather than a miniature set.

HERCULES (1983)

Whereas most 80s fantasy films set themselves in a barbarian world or Medieval world, Hercules is one of the few that took after Clash of the Titans and set themselves in a Greek myth world.

The Italian-made movie has a lowly reputation, partly from an obviously dubbed Lou Ferrigno playing Hercules, but the special effects are actually good.

As with Clash of the Titans, most effects are stop-motion.  Perhaps because stop-motion usually feels somewhat jerky, or perhaps because Bubo the mechanical owl from Titans was so charming, the Hercules filmmakers opted for several mechanical monsters rather than organic ones.

While the battles are brief, they are very fun.  In the clip below, Hercules fights a mechanical centaur on the green isle of Thera.  But can he save Circe from the centaur’s wrath?

Paolo Zeccara, the uncredited model maker, also worked on Starcrash and (years later) Exorcist: The Beginning.

CONAN THE DESTROYER (1984). 

I’m one of the few fans who likes this sequel better than the original 1982 Conan the Barbarian.  One reason: Dagoth in demon form.

Dagoth in statue form looks classical, if a little weird.  But when a sacrifice goes wrong, the statue changes (rather quickly) into a reptilian demon with an insectoid mouth.

Unlike all other monsters on our list, this one is a rubber suit – but it’s a huge and realistic suit worn by the one-and-only Andre the Giant.

Dagoth is so heavy that he cracks the floor when he jumps!  Conan needs a lot of help to beat him.

Designer Giannetto De Rossi is best known for Lucio Fulci gore films, which explains Dagoth’s rather gory demise.

LABYRINTH (1986). 

The popular Labyrinth is an obvious choice for this list, but that doesn’t make it any less deserving.

Depending how you define “monster,” there are many to choose from, but I’ll pick the big monster before the climax, the mechanical guard at the gates of the Goblin City.  Sarah and her friends must defeat this axe-wielding guard before they can finally enter.

Jim Henson named the guard “Humongous” though it’s unnamed in the film.  Basically a giant puppet, it weighed two tons (!) yet could be controlled by a single remote.

So, as the guard in the story was controlled by a single goblin, the puppet on the set was controlled by a single puppeteer.

Jim Henson’s Creature Shop – based in London at the time – built Humongous in less than three months.  Its arms and legs were powered by a hydraulic skeleton, and much of the outer material was lightweight foam painted to look metallic.

WILLOW (1988). 

Because Willow comes late in the 80s fantasy cycle, and because the story is filled with clichés, many fans forget how weird it gets when our heroes reach the evil queen’s castle at the end.

Just because Willow stars a happy dwarf (excuse me, a “nelwyn”) doesn’t mean it’s cutesy and naïve.

At the castle, our heroes confront some dexterous hairy trolls who already might be candidates for this “best monsters” list.  But then Willow’s imperfect magic transforms one troll into an enormous two-headed fire-breathing demon-dragon.

ILM’s Phil Tippett deserves credit for designing one of the grotesque monsters of the 80s.  It took a combination of stop-motion, hand puppetry, and a full scale model head to bring the “Eborsisk” dragon to life.

Willow‘s most famous special effect is CGI morphing, the very first in a feature film.  But I think you’ll agree that the Eborsisk is more intense on screen.

Produced by Darren Aronofsky,
Scott Franklin, Ari Handel
Written and Directed by Darren Aronofsky
Starring Jennifer Lawrence, Javier Bardem,
Ed Harris, Michelle Pfeiffer, Domhnall Gleeson

Written in a fevered frenzy over a period of five days, writer and director Darren Aronofsky has described writing the script for Mother! as a fever dream, which is coincidentally also a rather apt description of what it feels like to watch his latest effort.

As seen from the point of view of lead Jennifer Lawrence for the majority of its runtime, Mother! tells a strange, yet compelling story that is incredibly confrontational not only in terms of its cinematography and imagery, but also in terms of how it challenges the viewer.

By dealing with themes such as privacy, idolatry and the pitfalls of interpersonal relationships, the viewer’s own perceptions become part of the viewing experience, which makes watching the film a very subjective affair.

Moving through its narrative with an increasing amount of tension and surrealism, Mother! takes its time to build its mounting layers of unease and mystery, at times raising the question of how much of what is happening is actually real and how much is potentially hallucinated by Lawrence’s character. Much like Rosemary’s Baby unfolded from the point of view of Mia Farrow’s character of Rosemary Woodhouse, the story of Mother! unfolds from the perspective of Jennifer Lawrence’s character, as we are constantly either following directly behind her or seeing her react to the increasingly frustrating behavior of her husband and the mysterious guests that continue to arrive at their house. As such, we know as little as she does, and the heavy use of close-ups and Steadicam pulls the audience completely into the film, forcing them to process any given event occurring on the screen.

The acting performances further drive home the odd mix of plausible reality and hellish nightmare, as the various characters slowly become exacerbated versions of various personality types that most of us have probably crossed paths with at some point. Michelle Pfeiffer makes an impressive return to the big screen as she plays a particularly obnoxious character with a subtly menacing undertone, and while Pfeiffer and the rest of the cast do very well as a whole, the standout performance is undoubtedly that of Jennifer Lawrence; she manages to convey the confusion and frustration of her character without losing any of the humanity or groundedness necessary for the audience to invest in such an intense role, easily making this the best performance of Lawrence’s career thus far.

There is much to take away from Mother! and mull over once the end credits roll, as the film is brimming with allegories and symbolism. However, while some viewers will enjoy sitting back for two hours to let the surrealist piece of cinema that is Mother! take them on an abstract, absurdist ride, this will instead be a drawback for others, who will find the viewing experience beyond tedious. It should also be noted that the film’s weird and winding story will require you to remain in your seat for the entirety of its runtime, as even the briskest trip to the bathroom or concession stand leaves you at risk of missing a twist or turn that will leave you completely lost as to how on earth everything managed to escalate this much beyond comprehension in just a few minutes.

Additionally, those who are expecting a horror film in the more traditional sense may also leave the theater feeling dissatisfied. While Mother! contains some hauntingly visceral imagery in the final act in particular, much like Aronofsky’s Black Swan was not an outright horror film, it still had hints of horror imagery, which added to the visceral nature of that film. Mother! once again uses this approach, making it more of a drama/thriller that cleverly blends reality and surrealism, which makes it that much more arresting in all its confounding glory.

Love it or hate it, Aronofsky has undoubtedly created something quite special with Mother! as the film leaves an unsettling mark, which merits multiple viewings to even begin to comprehend the full extent of its meanings and metaphors.

Syd Mead is one of the most accomplished and widely respected artists and industrial designers alive today. His career boasts an incredible array of projects from designing cars to drafting architectural renderings, but he is most famous for his work as a concept artist on some of the most visually arresting films in the history of cinema. Since working on Star Trek: The Motion Picture in 1978 as a production illustrator, Syd Mead has always aimed to render “reality ahead of schedule,” creating evocative designs that marry believable content with a neofuturistic form. It is this ability to predict technological potential that has helped Mead create such a distinctive and influential aesthetic.

From his work with Ridley Scott on Blade Runner, to his striking designs for the light cycles in Tron, to his imposing concept art for the U.S.S. Sulaco in James Cameron’s Aliens, Syd Mead has played a pivotal role in shaping cinema’s vision of the future.

The Movie Art of Syd Mead: Visual Futurist represents the most extensive collection of Mead’s visionary work ever printed, compiling hundreds of images, sketches and concept arts from a career spanning almost 40 years, many of which have never been seen in print before. Each entry provides a unique insight into the processes involved in Mead’s practice as well as illuminating the behind-the-scenes work involved in creating a fully realized, cinematic depiction of the future. With such a plethora of images from the many genre-defining films Mead has worked on, this is essential reading for film fans, artists and futurologists alike.

And we’re giving away three copies!

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

Mead’s first professional work was for this automobile company in 1959?

Please include your name, and address (U.S. 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 October 1, 2017.

The best in comic book and pop culture entertainment comes to Portsmouth on Saturday 5^th & Sunday 6^th May 2018, in the largest event of its kind to hit the South Coast!

The International Festival of Comics will feature some of the most important comic writers and artists in the industry, with many creators appearing in the UK for the very first time. All guests have worked on some of the biggest properties in genre including Star Wars, Game of Thrones, Doctor Who, Superman, Batman, Wolverine, Judge Dredd, Indiana Jones, James Bond and many more.

Confirmed US guests that will be available for signings and a range of panels and Q&A sessions include Geof Darrow (Hard Boiled, Shaolin Cowboy), Russell Walks (Star Wars Official Artist), Tommy Lee Edwards (Batman Begins, Superman Returns, Mother Panic) and Gene Ha (Top 10).

Also appearing will be Frank Quitely (All-Star Superman, The Authority, Batman & Robin), John Paul Leon (Batman, Mother Panic), Cully Hamner (The Shade, The Question, Red, Batman and The Signal), Dave Dorman (Star Wars, Indiana Jones), Simon Fraser (Kingsman, 2000AD), Rafael Albuquerque (co-creator of American Vampire, Batgirl), French fantasy artist; Claire Wendling, Mark Buckingham (Fables, Hellblazer, The Sandman), Laurence Campbell (BPRD, Punisher) and Bengal (Batgirl, Supergirl) with lots more set to be announced over the coming months.

This year’s Comic Con will celebrate the 80^th anniversary of the first appearance of Superman in Action Comics and the 40^th birthday of the classic Christopher Reeve Superman movie and will also showcase exclusive behind the scenes art from HBO’s Game of Thrones.

Portsmouth Comic Con, International Festival of Comics will celebrate the art of comics and illustration plus the worlds of TV and Film, providing fun for aficionados, lifelong fans and families alike. Glimpse behind the camera of Doctor Who, with one of its leading prosthetic makeup artists, Gary Pollard, and cosplay will be strongly encouraged with prizes awarded for the best costumes on the day.

The event is the brainchild of Portsmouth Guildhall and Tripwire Magazine. Tripwire has been, for over 25 years, the pre-eminent comic and genre publication read by some of the biggest names in the film, TV and comic industry.

Editor of Tripwire Magazine and event partner, Joel Meadows, says, “Portsmouth is a city that has been crying out for an event such as this for many years. With Tripwire’s decades of industry expertise and Portsmouth Guildhall’s experience of running conventions and large events, we believe we can offer a show that will firmly place Portsmouth Comic Con, International Festival of Comics at the heart of the UK convention calendar.”

Don’t miss what promises to be one of the best conventions of the year! Tickets go on sale from 10am on Friday 15^th September at www.portsmouthcomiccon.co.uk or 0844 847 2362 with an Early Bird discount available!

The true and untold story of prolific rapper, actor, poet and activist Tupac Shakur (Demetrius Shipp Jr.), from his early days in New York to his status as one of the world’s most recognized and influential voices. Against all odds, Shakur’s raw talent, powerful lyrics and revolutionary mindset establish him as a cultural icon whose legacy continues to grow long after his death.

And we’re giving away five copies!

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

All Eyez on Me co-star Jamal Woolard also portrayed The Notorious B.I.G. in this 2009 film?

Please include your name, and address (U.S. 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 October 1, 2017.

In 1994, Mike Mignola released the first Hellboy series, Seed of Destruction and introduced the world to the Right Hand of Doom, the Bureau for Paranormal Research and Defense, and one of the most iconic comic book characters—and universes—of all time.

For more than 20 years, Mignola and a host of celebrated writers and artists have chronicled the adventures of Hellboy facing his supposed destiny as Beast of the Apocalypse, and explored the mysterious backstories of B.P.R.D. agents including Professor Trevor Bruttenholm and Abe Sapien.

Now, for the first time ever, Dark Horse Books will publish Mike Mignola’s award-winning Hellboy stories in chronological order with the HELLBOY OMNIBUS COLLECTION, creating the definitive reading experience for Hellboy fans and an ideal entry point for new readers.

This major publishing initiative consists of four HELLBOY OMNIBUS volumes, featuring every Hellboy story written and illustrated by Mignola and The Wild Hunt storyline written by Mignola and illustrated by Duncan Fegredo, which is the basis for the forthcoming i directed by Neil Marshall.

In addition, Dark Horse will publish two volumes of HELLBOY: THE COMPLETE SHORT STORIES featuring stories illustrated by artists including Richard Corben, Gabriel Bá and Fábio Moon. Each of the six trade paperback books will feature new covers by Mignola and Eisner award-winning colorist Dave Stewart.

“I’m very excited to finally have all the Hellboy stories collected in chronological order,” said Mike Mignola. “And I’m especially excited to have the three Duncan Fegredo books—all the stuff with Alice and the Queen of Blood—together in one collection for the first time.”

Hellboy has appeared in graphic novels and comic books, prose novels and short story collections, two animated features, two live action films, toy lines and all manner of merchandise. Neil Marshall’s forthcoming Hellboy film is currently in pre-production, starring David Harbour, Sasha Lane, Ian McShane, Penelope Mitchell, and Milla Jovovich.

Each of the six trade paperback volumes will be priced at $ $24.99 US/$33.99 Canada. The first omnibus will be available in comic stores on May 23rd and in bookstores on June 5, 2018. Both HELLBOY OMNIBUS Volume 1 and HELLBOY: THE COMPLETE SHORT STORIES Volume 1 are available for pre-order now.

About the HELLBOY OMNIBUS COLLECTION:

 
HELLBOY OMNIBUS VOLUME 1: SEED OF DESTRUCTION
Available in comic stores on May 23rd and in bookstores on June 5, 2018.

The story jumps from Hellboy’s mysterious World War II origin to his 1994 confrontation with the man who summoned him to earth, and the earliest signs of the plague of frogs. Avoiding his supposed fate as the herald of the end of the world, Hellboy continues with the Bureau for Paranormal Research and Defense, fighting alongside Abe Sapien, Liz Sherman, and drafting Roger Homunculus into his own ill-fated service with the B.P.R.D. This 368-page volume covers Hellboy’s adventures from 1994 to 1997, reprinting Seed of Destruction, Wake the Devil, and “Wolves of St August,” “The Chained Coffin,” and “Almost Colossus,” from The Chained Coffin and The Right Hand of Doom.

 
HELLBOY: THE COMPLETE SHORT STORIES VOL. 1
Available Summer 2018.

The ultimate introduction to this supernatural hero features 16 standalone stories with Mignola’s greatest collaborators—stories that can be read in any order.

In 1994, Mike Mignola released the first Hellboy series, Seed of Destruction, as Hellboy faced his supposed destiny as Beast of the Apocalypse. Before that, he’d spent fifty years fighting monsters as a somewhat carefree member of the Bureau for Paranormal Research and Defense. The Complete Short Stories Volumes 1 & 2 present those early adventures. “The Crooked Man” and “Double Feature of Evil,” both of which earned Mignola and his legendary collaborator Richard Corben Eisner Awards, are collected with the complete “Hellboy in Mexico” saga, featuring collaborations with Corben, Mick McMahon, Gabriel Ba, and Fabio Moon, as well as one of Mignola’s early masterpiece, “The Corpse.” This 368-page volume covers Hellboy’s adventures from 1947 to 1961, reprinting stories from The Chained Coffin, The Right Hand of Doom, The Bride of Hell, The Crooked Man, The Troll Witch, and Hellboy’s childhood adventure, The Midnight Circus, drawn by Duncan Fegredo.

 
HELLBOY OMNIBUS VOLUME 2: STRANGE PLACES
Available Summer 2018.

Hellboy loses faith in the Bureau for Paranormal Research and Defense when they strap a bomb to one of his fellow not-quite-human agents. He gets answers about his destiny, like it or not, in over 300 pages of comics mostly drawn by Mignola, featuring award-winning guests Gary Gianni and Richard Corben. This 416-page volume covers Hellboy’s adventures from 1998 to 2005, reprinting Conqueror Worm, Strange Places, Into the Silent Sea, and “The Right Hand of Doom”, “Box Full of Evil,” and “Being Human” from The Right Hand of Doom and B.P.R.D. Being Human.

 
HELLBOY OMNIBUS VOLUME 3: THE WILD HUNT
Available Fall 2018.

The basis for the upcoming Hellboy feature film! Terrible powers determined to kill Hellboy force him strike a deal with the Russian witch, the Baba Yaga, and to confront the truth about his destiny. The human race hangs in the balance, as well as King Arthur’s sword Excalibur, in a story that wipes England off the map and sets in motion the end of the world … Mike Mignola and Duncan Fegredo’s complete trilogy is collected for the first time in this 512-page volume, reprinting Darkness Calls, The Wild Hunt, and The Storm and the Fury, and the short story “The Mole.”

 
HELLBOY: THE COMPLETE SHORT STORIES VOL. 2
Available Fall 2018.

Featuring “The Hydra and the Lion,” “The Troll Witch,” “The Baba Yaga,” “The Sleeping and the Dead,” “Heads,” “Goodbye Mister Tod,” “The Vârcolac,” “The Vampire of Prague,” “The Bride of Hell,” “The Whittier Legacy,” “Buster Oakley Gets His Wish,” “They That Go Down to the Sea in Ships,” “A Christmas Underground”, “Dr. Carp’s Experiment,” “The Ghoul,” “In the Chapel of Moloch,” and “Makoma.”

 
HELLBOY OMNIBUS VOLUME 4: HELLBOY IN HELL
Available Winter 2019

Hellboy in Hell, The Exorcist of Vorsk, The Magician and the Snake

For more details, visit darkhorse.com

In an attempt to reconnect with his son Danny (Ty Shelton), successful Wall Street broker Will (Hayden Christensen) takes his family on a vacation to the cabin where Will grew up. While Will and Danny are hunting, their trip takes a deadly turn when they witness the murder of a crooked police officer as a bank robbery goes awry. When Danny is taken hostage by the criminals, Will is forced to help them evade the police chief (Bruce Willis) investigating the murder and recover the stolen money in exchange for his son’s life.

And we’re giving away five copies!

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

True or false: Hayden Christiansen is the only actor
to portray Anakin Skywalker and Darth Vader onscreen?

Please include your name, and address (U.S. 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 October 1, 2017.

From the Great War to the Cold War, Gal Gadot’s Wonder Woman is set to return to theaters, this time fighting Ruskies as Princess Diana of Themyscira, Daughter of Hippolyta takes on the Cold War of the ‘80s.

According to intel nabbed back in July and new details emerging over the past week, it appears that the new Wonder Woman will be yet another period piece, this time set in the land of big hair, shoulder pads and Reaganomics.

Articles from The Mary Sue, The Wrap and Screen Rant have all but confirmed that it will be only a matter of time before Wonder Woman will be pulling a pair of leg warmers over her boots before a synthesizer score plays over a fun montage of clips showing her getting ready for the night…

Too much?

The story will also bring Diana in the United States and the politics of the time

There is no question that the ‘80s are hot right now. Thanks to mega hits like The Goldbergs and Stranger Things, as well as box-office blockbusters such as It, it seems that audiences will spend the better part of the 2010s inundated by striped polo shirts with popped collars, Young MC sound bites and ALF references.

Helmer Patty Jenkins is also set to return to the director’s chair.

Jenkins’ deal is a milestone in itself it marks the biggest payday for any femme director this side of the Hollywood sign. But what do you expect for the true hero of the DCEU?

Just a small reminder: WW grossed over $402M domestically and has topped the $800M  worldwide. And while Batman v. Superman: Dawn of Martha and Suicide Squad both did well at the box office (with Squad even going on to win a Oscar for its tech), both were panned by critics and caused a re-org among the exec deck of WB. It was Jenkins and Wonder Woman that truly saved the studio.

Like, the sequel to Wonder Woman is totally set for release on December 13, 2019.

The Wedding Plan is a poignant and funny romantic comedy about love, marriage, and faith in life’s infinite possibilities. Michal, blindsided by her fiancé’s decision to call off their wedding with only a month’s notice, is unwilling to return to single life. Michal decides to put her trust in fate and continue with her wedding plans, believing Mr. Right will appear by her chosen date. As the day of the ceremony grows closer and no suitor appears, Michal puts everything on the line to find happiness.

And we’re giving away five copies!

To enter, please send an email with the subject header “THE WEDDING PLAN” to geekcontest @ gmail dot com and answer the following:

What is your favorite wedding themed movie?

Please include your name, and address (U.S. 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 October 1, 2017.

Double-crossed while sent to collect stolen intelligence in East Germany, elusive secret agent Charlize Theron (Mad Max: Fury Road, The Fate of the Furious) unleashes a deadly arsenal of skills in ATOMIC BLONDE, the adrenaline pumping, stylish spy-thriller, coming to Digital on October 24, 2017 and 4K Ultra HD, Blu-ray, DVD and On Demand on November 14, 2017, from Universal Pictures Home Entertainment. Adapted from Antony Johnson’s graphic novel, The Coldest City, the explosive film set in the late eighties takes viewers on a high-stakes chase as Theron attempts to escape Berlin. The 4K Ultra HD, Blu-ray, DVD and Digital versions include commentary from the cast, filmmakers, stunt performers and fight coordinators, plus behind-the-scenes features that take viewers inside the making of the film’s intense stunt choreography.

Oscar-winner Charlize Theron stars as elite MI6’s most lethal assassin and the crown jewel of her Majesty’s secret intelligence service, Lorraine Broughton, in ATOMIC BLONDE. When she’s sent on a covert mission into Cold War Berlin, she must use all of the spycraft, sensuality and savagery she has to stay alive in the ticking time bomb of a city simmering with revolution and double-crossing hives of traitors. Broughton must navigate her way through a deadly game of spies to recover a priceless dossier while fighting ferocious killers along the way in this breakneck action-thriller from director David Leitch (Deadpool 2, John Wick). Theron is joined by James McAvoy (Split, X-Men: First Class), Sofia Boutella (The Mummy, Star Trek Beyond) and John Goodman (Transformers: The Last Knight, Patriots Day) in what critics are calling “the best spy movie in years,” Shawn Edwards, FOX-TV.

BONUS FEATURES on 4K ULTRA HD, BLU-RAY, DVD AND DIGITAL

• Deleted and Extended Scenes
• Welcome to Berlin – The ultimate setting for a Cold War spy thriller, Berlin becomes a character of its own. Go behind the wall for this making-off.
• Blondes Have More Gun – Lorraine Broughton has one impressive set of skills. See what it took for Charlize Theron to fully transform herself into this tenacious character.
• Spymaster – David Leitch spins the spy genre on its head through exemplary action sequences and complex characters. Hear from cast and crew what it was like to work with this cutting edge director.
• Anatomy of a Fight Scene – Director David Leitch breaks down the incredibly detailed long-take stairwell shot in this anatomy of a fight scene.
• Story in Motion: Agent Broughton – See Agent Broughton as you never have before in these motion storyboards.
• Story in Motion: The Chase – Gascoigne is on the run. Find out who’s after him in this motion storyboard.
• Feature Commentary with Director David Leitch and Editor Elisabet Ronaldsdottir

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

• 4K Ultra HD is the ultimate movie watching experience. 4K Ultra HD^T 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 lets fans watch movies anywhere on their favorite devices. Users can instantly stream or download.

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#AtomicBlonde

Tom Cruise battles the ultimate evil in a breathtaking version of the legendary and mystical monster that has captivated and terrified humankind for centuries.

Thought safely entombed deep beneath the desert, an ancient princess (Sofia Boutella) whose destiny was unjustly taken from her is awakened in our current day. Her malevolence has grown over millennia and with it come terrors that defy human comprehension. From the sands of the Middle East through modern-day London, The Mummy balances wonder, thrills, and imagination.

The Mummy also stars Oscar winner Russell Crowe, Jake Johnson, Annabelle Wallis, and Courtney B. Vance.

And we’re giving away five copies!

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

Russell Crowe appears in The Mummy as Dr. Henry Jekyll, who turns into the monstrous alter ego?

Please include your name, and address (U.S. 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 October 1, 2017.

With a fighting and acting career spanning over four decades, Don “The Dragon” Wilson has become one of the most recognized names and decorated fighters in martial arts history. Known for plenty of cult classic movies, including the Bloodfist series, Future Kick and many, many more, Don Wilson has also competed against former MMA champions, world renowned coaches and plenty of top caliber fighters in his kickboxing career. More recently, he has been active in martial arts movies once again with Showdown in Manila and some unique roles in Traditionz Entertainment’s The Martial Arts Kid and Paying Mr. McGetty. Don provides his valuable time discussing his career and upcoming work in this interview.

 * * * * *

FOG!: Tell us a bit about your early life, before even your illustrious martial arts career. What was life like growing up?

Don Wilson: I was born in Alton, Illinois but moved to Cocoa Beach, Florida when I was 5 so I have very few memories there. Most of my early years as a child were spent near the beach watching the launches from Kennedy Space Center because my father was a NASA Engineer and my first desire for a career was to be an Astronaut. I was the only Asian looking kid in my school but learned very early that if one was good in sports, anyone would be accepted. I ended up being the MVP of my High School Football and Basketball Teams. We moved to Rockledge, which was about 15 miles inland, when I was about in the 3rd Grade and I lived there until my Junior Year in High School when I enrolled in a Prep School St Andrews in Boca Raton, Florida. After Graduating in 1972, I attended the US Coast Guard Academy for 1 year and then transferred to BCC in Cocoa, Florida graduating with an AA in Electrical Engineering. I went to Fort Knox, Kentucky and competed a 6 week Basic Training Camp in case I needed financial help for school. I then attended FIT but dropped out to become a Kickboxer. In 1985 I retired the first time as the World Lightheavyweight Champion and moved to LA to become an actor.

Was there any one particular moment when you knew martial arts would be your path, or did things just happen to fall into place at the right time? Is there anything you would have changed, if given the chance?

I knew very early on that I enjoyed studying the Martial Arts. It had aspects of learning and practicing that were missing in many sports. The Honor, Respect, Discipline, Humility, etc. taught in Traditional Martial Arts took “Good Sportsmanship” to another Level for me. My desire to improve as a martial artist began to consume me and I loved working every day to improve my skills and gain more knowledge in the Fighting Arts. I did not know in the beginning how far I could go but I wanted to find out and was willing to do whatever it took to improve.

Timing is everything and I started in 1972.  Kickboxing in the US started in 1974; I moved to LA to be an actor in 1985; In 1987 Blood Sport was released and the Martial Arts Movie Boom time started.

I’ve always been very lucky….I am careful not to desire a change in my past because EVERY experience has the potential to improve you as a human being, even the Bad Ones!

You have starred in numerous cult classic martial arts and action films. What are your personal favorites to have been a part of?

Red Sun Rising is one of my all-time favorites and was one of my four HBO World Premieres. It was produced by my former personal manager Paul Maslak, Neva Friedenn, and Ashok Amritraj.  The character “Hoshino” is probably the closet one to me so far in my career as an actor. That made some things easier, but also forced me to make some adjustments as well.

Forced to Fight was a fun project because Richard Roundtree did such a fantastic job as “Stark” that I would forget we were in a movie while watching and listening to him. That is a fantastic feeling on a movie set and one that I really respect in an actor….that ability to make you forget you’re “acting”.

The recent Traditionz Entertainment films have brought you back working with Cynthia Rothrock as you have a few times before. How much does it help to have somebody around who comes from the same era and has a similar veteran status?

It’s great to work with Cynthia Rothrock for many reasons. First, I have great respect for her as a martial artist and actor, Second, we have been friends since the mid 80’s, so when we are together working on a movie, I totally trust her instincts regarding her character in a scene as well as her handling the skills necessary to make the action safe.

We had the same agent for many years and both got our Black Belts in Pai Lum Kung Fu. That’s a lot of unlikely coincidences… I think when we work together, we bring out the best in each other. It’s been a lot of fun and I hope we can work together again in the future.

In The Martial Arts Kid, you are given a change of pace, this time playing the role of mentor. How was it for you having to adjust to a very different style of character than in years past?

I have been a professional actor since my first film ABC in New York City Chinatown filmed in 1982. I’ve played good guys and bad guys so that gives an actor a lot of “range” to play with and experience. “Uncle Glen” was a fun character because he liked to “mess” with Robbie a little, such as telling him he is “getting him some wheels”, while parking next to some cars for sale. Most of my “Action Leading Man” characters don’t have a sense of humor like that and therefore are more straight-forward. It is always more interesting to experiment with different character traits, etc. than just keep repeating things that have worked for me in the past. Jansen was such an interesting actor in that he was able to portray Robbie as sympathetic while outwardly being a somewhat trouble maker with attitude.

Something we’re very used to seeing in martial arts movies are training montage segments. However, one thing that seemed very different in The Martial Arts Kid, as opposed to plenty of other similar films, was the use of actual instruction during said segments, in a way that might even convince the viewers to try some of the tricks and techniques out themselves. How much creative input did you have in that process, and was that something that was given deliberate focus?

My brother James did not want us to use “movie teaching” lessons in the film. He wanted real-life training for practical fighting techniques so that is what we taught. We did not “chase chickens” like Rocky did or wash cars like The Karate Kid. I taught Robbie lessons which I show all over the world in my “Dragon Fighting Seminars”. Watching The Martial Arts Kid provides some very real “lessons” and the teaching is authentic. I’d like to take credit for it but it was James” idea and Michael Baumgarten and I worked together to make those “school” scenes work as necessary for the story.

In Paying Mr. McGetty, once again you appear in an atypical role, this time providing some interesting deadpan humor as a feared man of few words. This had to have been one of the more unique and different experiences for you as an actor. How did that come about?

I really had fun playing “Shota” in Paying Mr McGetty. I combined 2 Hit Men who I found interesting, “Leon” in The Professional and the hitman in No Country for Old Men. They were both unique, scary, funny, and dangerous at the same time. I wanted Shota to have some “code” and, hopefully, the audience would be interested in why he is helping Tyrell instead of giving him the “beat down” for which he was paid. My brother and Michael asked me to play Shota, I read the script , said “Yes” immediately, and “the rest is history”.

In your heavily decorated kickboxing career, you hold wins over the likes of Maurice Smith and Mike Winkeljohn, both of whom became prominent figures in what is now known as MMA; Smith became a UFC champion, while Winkeljohn runs one of the most prominent MMA training camps in the world. Do you ever think about how you essentially pioneered a movement via your martial arts experience and movies to eventually bring martial arts to a more mainstream level?

I am only one of MANY Martial Artists who have helped move Martial Arts more into the mainstream for people all over the world.

I feel the study of the Martial Arts is really a way of life that encourages the constant desire to improve in every way. It focuses our attention on the evolution of the entire person, which includes Body, Mind, and Spirit. This is something that brings humanity together in respect, friendship, and hope.

The more we promote the study and practice of the Martial Arts….the better the world will be for everyone.

If I have been a part of that, I would am honored.

Along those same lines, you have done some commentary for early UFC events. What is your opinion of the current MMA landscape, not only in the US but on an international level? Who are some of your favorite fighters, past or present?

I enjoy watching MMA bouts and believe it can be a very important part of Traditional Martial Arts. It is just the combination of Kickboxing with the grappling arts.

As a former collegiate wrestler, the average untrained opponent would be no problem “on the ground” , however, by studying submission fighting, ground and pound, etc. we can defend ourselves better in case we end up on the ground in a self defense situation.

I prefer to stand on my feet and fight because I do not want my groin or eyes attacked while rolling on the ground. That said, I am very hard to hit and move much better than an untrained “street fighter” so my superior offensive weapons would do a lot of damage while my defense holds his strikes at bay. I think MMA training can help overall self defense skills but I just prefer to keep on my feet in any self defense confrontation. I like a LOT of different fighters but do not want to name any because I will surely forget one I should have mentioned. So, I’ll just say I like a lot of the young fighters today as well as many of the retired MMA Fighters.

You have been very active for well over four decades, not only as a professional kickboxer but also as an actor. How have you managed to maintain yourself so consistently for so long?

I feel great after playing College Football, Basketball, and Wrestling, Boxing, Point-Fighting, Kickboxing, etc. All those contact sports caused me LOTS of damage and injuries. But, at 45 I began taking Vitamin, Mineral, Protein Supplements as well as improving my diet and, now, I am COMPLETELY HEALED and PAIN FREE! I think everyone can improve their health if they live and train for “LIFE” not a sport or competition. Go to a Health Food Store and buy the best quality products you can afford, improve your eating habits, exercise, meditate away all negative thoughts, and let your 3 million years of evolution give you a new, healthy, happy body-life! I am now 63 and feel better than when I was 45!

Are there any projects we can look forward to seeing from you in the near future?

I have a script Blood Raid, which is an ALL OUT ACTION FILM designed to be a B-Movie Star Expendables style action film. It is “Die Hard meets From Dusk ’til Dawn” and we’ll film in LA as soon as “the money’s in the bank”. I’m hoping to be filming later this year. They are also writing the script for The Martial Art Kid 2-Payback so I’m looking forward to a busy year. Thanks for letting me speak to your audience and thanks to all my fans for supporting my work! It is appreciated!!!

I’m writing this wrapped in a dressing gown, surrounded by tissues with multiple cold and flu medications strewn around me. No, this isn’t a bizarre fetish I’m into, I’m just unwell. In this sickly composition, the only thing on my mind in-between the sporadic headaches is video games. Specifically, I’m wondering why the hell we don’t have amazing cure all elixirs or first aid sprays that can even take care of broken limbs. Instead, I’m destined to suffer through this illness. Where are you when I need you Dr. Mario?

Because I’m feeling incredibly self-centered and sorry for myself right now, I’ve decided to write about video game ailments. I’m not talking about thumb related health problems or ‘The Claw’ or viruses of the malware kind, rather those sickly in-game infections, impairments and illnesses. Alliteration…or should that be Ill-lteration (please don’t judge my bad jokes, I’m highly medicated right now) aside, I’m traversing the sickly world of video games.

Viral outbreaks are perhaps the most common ailments in video games and include titles such as Bloodborne, The Last Of Us, Left 4 Dead and Day Z. Of course, these range from being virally contagious diseases that turn humanity into brain hungry zombies to altering your higher brain function but I’d be remiss if I didn’t first mention the T-Virus from the Resident Evil series so I’m starting with that.

T-Virus (Resident Evil series)

Developed as a nasty bioweapon by the morally corrupt and shady Umbrella Corporation, the T-Virus is a pathogen that has been released multiple times and was responsible for the fall and destruction of Raccoon City. It’s a highly contagious infection which was originally produced to genetically modify and weaponise any living organism. It’s probably one of the most well known contagions in video game history due to the infections devastating consequences. The virus is resistant to most antiviral practices so it possesses the ability to alter its hosts physical make up, turning them into blood hungry monsters that are extremely difficult to kill.

Rust Lung (Gears of War series)

A parasitic infection caused by prolonged exposure to Imulsion, Rust Lung is common within the Gears of War series in those who are in the later stages of Lambency. The name comes from the brown or rust coloured mucus coughed up by the infected. It’s an infection that indiscriminately targets any organism, the parasites mutate within the host causing the infected to become more aggressive until they eventually alter completely into an unrecognisable, ravenous, rage-fuelled form. They spread their infection by exploding upon destruction, making them highly contagious and difficult hosts to engage.

Genophage (Mass Effect series)

An appalling and harrowing infection due to the nature of its origin, the Genophage was deployed as a biological weapon by the turians on the krogan race in an attempt to curtail their aggression. It caused a species wide mutation in the krogans genes, leaving them infertile and thining out their numbers. In-game efforts to reverse the genophage or find a cure for it seem somewhat futile as many of those in the Mass Effect universe who wish to do so, have plans to control the krogans as an unstoppable army for their own nefarious means.

Green Poison (Tom Clancy’s The Division)

This infection doesn’t turn its host into a zombie or aggressive being, rather it simply destroys it. Unable to be defeated, the human race is at risk of being eradicated. It was initially spread through bank notes that were contaminated with Green Poison, a non-controllable viral version of smallpox. In the game, the whole of Midtown Manhattan is quarantined in order to keep the rest of the world safe. Left without help or governance, it’s unsurprising that various factions evolved to take control of the city. In Midtown, if you’re a civilian who hasn’t been infected by the virus, chances are you’ll soon be taken out by a Cleaner.

Cordyceps Brain Infection (The Last of Us)

This grotesque fungal infection causes humans who have been infected to lose their higher brain functions. Eventually succumbing to the disease and losing their sight, these infected humans continually spread airborne spores, infecting everyone who comes into contact with them. Having lost rationality and control of their actions, the infected become aggressive and attack the non-infected. The scariest thing about this in-game disease is that Naughty Dog confirmed it’s actually based on a real-world parasite. Ophiocordyceps unilateralis is a fungal parasite that affects and controls ants whereas Cordyceps Brain Infection is the fictional mutation of this parasite that infects humans.

GUILT (Trauma Center series)

A medical terrorist cell calling themselves Delphi release this deadly toxin in order to wipe out humanity as they believe the human race should have ended centuries ago. GUILT stands for Gangliated Utrophin Immuno Latency Toxin and each strain of the toxin has a unique ability, for example Tetarti creates a poisonous gas within organs and Paraskevi, which moves directly to the heart where, if the player is unable to stop it will kill the patient instantly. So be sure to check your medical professional isn’t part of an underground terrorist conspiracy group before seeking their advice.

FEV or Forced Evolutionary Virus (Fallout series)

Super Mutants used to be regular human folk in the pre-Fallout world but they were subjected to the Forced Evolutionary Virus in an attempt by unscrupulous, underhanded groups to fast forward evolution and create a new, superior form of the human race. However their plans didn’t come to fruition in the way they might have liked as Super Mutants became violent, Hulk-like creatures dedicated to turning humanity into further mutants and wiping out any pesky humans who get in their way of doing so.

Infestation (The Binding Of Isaac)

Probably the cutest looking parasite on this list, Infestation is one the macabre weapons available to Isaac and renders him infected with maggots that releases blue attack flies. Isaac can survive the basement of horrors with Infestation but if knowing that there is a maggot-like creature living inside him makes you feel somewhat queasy, you can always let the game’s permadeath take hold and start over. Sorry, Isaac.

Rat Plague and Bloodfly Fever (Dishonored series)

From infected plague ridden rats to flying parasitic insects, Dunwall and Karnaca do not make for great tourist destinations. The great rat plague of Dunwall was actually orchestrated by former Royal Spymaster Hiram Burrows as an attempt to wipe out the poor in order to benefit the elite. It caused the infected to bleed from their eyes earning them the unpleasant nickname of Weepers. Bloodflies on the other hand are found in Karnaca in Dishonored 2 and grow their nests in the corpses of their infected victims making them even more revolting.

ADAM Poisoning (BioShock series)

Drinkable super powers might seem like a no-brainer but unfortunately for the citizens of Rapture, the highly addictive nature of ADAM turned them into violent, blood thirsty animals called Splicers. Desperate for more ADAM, these addicts are vicious and will stop at nothing to attack Jack or anyone else they encounter. So, kids…if anyone offers you mutant slug juice with the ability to give you super powers, just say no.

Those are just ten afflictions and infections I would definitely want to avoid but here are some notable mentions:

Dysentry (Oregon Trail)
This intestinal illness became a hilarious joke in classrooms, as the educational game Oregon Trail taught kids how difficult life used to be. In reality though, this affliction brings on fever and causes horrendous non-stop vomiting. Education is fun.

The Flood (Halo series)
Yet another parastic infection, The Flood came remarkably close to destroying all life within the Milky Way galaxy as it had the ability to infect a variety of lifeforms.

Halo Zombie Virus (The Walking Dead)
An inescapable zombie outbreak caused by a pathogen that no one can avoid because when you inevitably die, you turn.

The Green Flu (Left 4 Dead series)
A new form of influenza, possibly even a mutated rabies pathogen, not much is known about this infection other than it not only creates regular infected humans but also special mutations who pose even more danger.

Blacklight Virus (Prototype 2)
Getting infected with this virus has the potential to transform you into an tentacled extra from a grotesque body-horror film. Where do I sign up?

Necromorph Infection (Dead Space series)
Spread through electromagnetic signal broadcasts and a mutant pathogen this infection causes dementia, paralysis and homicidal thoughts however, rather unsettlingly, it can also reanimate and mutate the dead.

What gross illnesses, infections and parasitic viruses from games would you least like to be afflicted with? Let us know in the comments below.

Until next time, I’m off to eat chicken soup and pray I’m not patient zero of some new hideous mutation *cough, cough*

Stay healthy everyone!

Packed with out-of-this-world action unlike anything you’ve ever seen, Valerian and the City of a Thousand Planets heads to 4K Ultra HD Combo Pack (plus Blu-ray and Digital HD), Blu-ray Combo Pack (plus DVD and Digital HD), and DVD November 21 from Lionsgate; and on Digital HD November 7 and On Demand November 21.

Based on the best-selling French comic series “Valérian and Laureline” by Pierre Christin and Jean-Claude Mézières, published by Dargaud – visionary writer/director Luc Besson (The Fifth Element, Lucy) advances this iconic source material into a contemporary, unique and epic science fiction saga produced by Virginie Besson-Silla. Valerian and the City of a Thousand Planets stars Dane DeHaan (The Amazing Spider-Man 2), Cara Delevingne (Suicide Squad), Golden Globe nominee Clive Owen (Children of Men), Academy Award nominee Ethan Hawke (Best Supporting Actor, Boyhood, 2014), Golden Globe & Emmy winner John Goodman (voice) (“Rosanne”) with 7-time GRAMMY Award winner Rihanna, and Golden Globe winner Rutger Hauer (Bladerunner). The film features a soundtrack by Oscar winner Alexandre Desplat (Best Original Score, The Grand Budapest Hotel, 2014)

In the 28th century, Valerian (DeHaan) and Laureline (Delevingne) are a team of special operatives charged with maintaining order throughout the human territories. Under assignment from the Minister of Defense, the two embark on a mission to the astonishing city of Alpha—an ever-expanding metropolis where species from all over the universe have converged over centuries to share knowledge, intelligence, and cultures with each other. There is a mystery at the center of Alpha, a dark force which threatens the peaceful existence of the City of a Thousand Planets, and Valerian and Laureline must race to identify the marauding menace and safeguard not just Alpha, but the future of the universe.

The Valerian and the City of a Thousand Planets home entertainment release features the five part documentary “Citizens of Imagination: Creating the Universe of Valerian” which delves into the creation of the characters in the film, including both humans and alien lifeforms, along with insight into the production design, special effects, and stunts. The home entertainment release also features a “The Art of Valerian” photo gallery, and Enhancement Pods.

The 4K Ultra HD and Blu-ray versions feature Dolby Atmos audio remixed specifically for the home-theater environment, to place and move audio anywhere in the room, including overhead. The 4K Ultra HD Blu-ray also features Dolby Vision high dynamic range (HDR), growing Lionsgate’s library of titles featuring both Dolby Vision and Dolby Atmos. Dolby Vision transforms the TV experience in the home by delivering greater brightness and contrast, as well as a fuller palette of rich colors. Together with the captivating sound of Dolby Atmos, consumers will experience both cutting-edge imaging and state-of-the-art sound technology for a fully immersive entertainment experience.

Valerian and the City of a Thousand Planets will be available on 4K Ultra HD Combo Pack, Blu-ray Combo Pack, and DVD for the suggested retail price of $42.99, $39.99 and $29.95, respectively.

4K/BLU-RAY/DVD/DIGITAL HD SPECIAL FEATURES

• “Citizens of Imagination: Creating the Universe of Valerian” Multi-Part Documentary
  • Paper, Ink, Flesh, Blood: Origins and Characters
  • To Alpha and Beyond: Production and Stunts
  • Denizens of the Galaxy: Humans and Aliens
  • The Final Element: Visual Effects
  • Wrap Up
• Enhancement Pods
• “The Art of Valerian” Photo Gallery

OwnValerian.com

Back to more random pilots, and man, are they all over the place.

With behind the scenes talent including Sam Raimi, Shane Black, Fred Dekker, Michael Lehmann, and Chris Thompson you’d think all three of these pilots would make it to television and find an audience.

You’d be wrong.

Let’s check out where they went wrong.

Darkman

Prior to the 1995 sequel Darkman II: The Return of Durant, FOX wanted a TV series based on the character so in 1992 this “pilot” was cobbled together.

Liam Neeson would not be returning to the role and Arnold Vosloo would take up the mantle in the 2 sequels later on so here we have British actor Christopher Bowen as the Darkman. Larry Drake returns as Durant and Kathleen York pops in as our police character. We also get a precocious ten year old black homeless girl as a sidekick, but she has no credit so I am unsure who played her.

The plot is there is really no plot as this is not a real pilot, but rather “Pitch Pilot” meant to show the network what a real Darkman TV series would look like if it actually had a budget (this is shot very on the cheap… so on the cheap that any and all action scenes are simply recycled from the movie). The glaring use of movie footage jumps right out at you as the filmstock is so vastly different from the video in the new segments. Also they used footage from BLADE RUNNER (!!!) at 3 points. I have no idea how this was all legal as Universal owns Darkman, Warner Brothers owns Blade Runner and this was being made for FOX.

This pilot is a mixture of clips from the movie and new footage used to tell an updated origin of the characters. They have retconned some things from the movie so this is a reboot rather than a continuation.

More of a proof of concept pilot than anything meant to air for audiences but an interesting curiosity nonetheless. A friend of mine made the mask for this and he never even knew this was actually shot, when the left KNB he was told they scrapped the idea of it. Guess he was wrong.

With Bowen being English all of a sudden the Darkman has a British accent that is never explained nor matches the footage used from the first movie. The tone is also all over the place as some of the new footage feels like it takes place in Burton’s Gotham and other parts feel like a comedy on fake sets. Needless to say none of this allows the movie footage to integrate properly. All in all this feels disjointed and unsure of what direction it wants to move in.

Sam Raimi is listed as a producer on this so I have to assume he signed off on this mess.

Trash

This 2003 FOX pilot is by the people that bought us the amazing Action in 1999 and stars Mike Erwin, Richard Burgi and Lisa Blount (with a cameo by the great Charles Napier).

Mike Erwin lives in a trailer park with some of the oddest residents in the world (and his Mom of course). He makes digital videos (so 2003) of these odd people all the while trying to keep his mom from losing the trailer and going insane. His best friend is Gypsy, a punk rock girl that clearly is in love with him but to whom he is completely clueless. He also accidentally got her brother sent to juvie so he must avoid taking a beating from him now that he is out. Mike also has a new job as the lawn boy for the Blu family; a rich, snotty family “on the hill”.

There is some history there… bad history. Turns out his mom used to be in love with Bud Blu and there is a lot of bad, bad blood (and tons of poop) between these families. Mike also is in love with the daughter of Bud Blu, Luna who is clueless… to everything… she is dumb as a stump.

This being a pilot it’s mostly establishing characters and the plot but it was also hilarious. It had good production values and witty smart dialog that was pretty irreverent. This could have been something had it gone to series.

Edge

An Amazon pilot from 2015 which failed to go to series, Edge comes to us from Fred Dekker and Shane Black (who also directs). Fantastic cast the likes of Max Martini, Yvonne Strahovski and the never disappointing William Sadler just can’t save this thing. I love Black and Dekker (ha) but this thing is a slog of half realized ideas and an unsure tone.

Edge is Josiah Hedges, part Mexican outlaw looking for revenge in the death of his brother at the hands of corrupt Union Army. Merritt Harknett is the “sheriff” of a town where Hedges ends up and all are after a special box that will lead them all to… THE EDGE!!!

Yeah, this was not that impressive. With talent such as Black and Dekker I expected this to be more well written and well made. As it is the pilot is all over the place and the tone keeps shifting from jovial western to hard edged horror tinged shock with hints of the supernatural here and there. Edge does not commit to any of these as it wants to be everything all in one. As a pilot it fails as it does not engage at all and I did not want to see more of these characters or of this plot. Based on a book series which I have never read I am unsure to how true this pilot is.

Sadler is always a welcome sight and never disappoints and Max Martini needs to be more well known but I can see why Edge was not picked up by Amazon to go to full series.

Warner Bros. first cartoon superstar gets an unprecedented presentation on DVD with the Warner Archive Collection (WAC) release of Porky Pig 101, a compilation of everyone’s favorite pants-less porcine – from his humble ensemble beginnings to a signature starring role in the studio’s premier cartoon series, Looney Tunes. Presented in chronological order, with key commentaries on select shorts, the five-disc Porky Pig 101 will be available September 19, 2017 through wb.com/warnerarchive and your favorite online retailer.

From his start as the break-out star of a schoolhouse talent show in I Haven’t Got a Hat to his slimmer, slap-happy sidekick stage alongside Daffy Duck in Porky Pig’s Feat, Porky Pig 101 spotlights the character’s ascent from rascally school gang member to superstar spokespig in this impressive cartoon collection.

“Porky Pig 101 is another major step in Warner Archive Collection’s expanding footprint in diverse releases drawn from our company’s incredible library of filmed entertainment,” says George Feltenstein, Senior Vice President, Theatrical Catalog, Warner Bros. Home Entertainment. “There are a large number of dedicated adult collectors who recognize these animated shorts as essential examples of classic American cinema history, and this wonderful character compendium will particularly appeal to those sophisticated, knowledgeable fans.”

Porky Pig 101 arrives from WAC after the long-planned collection’s five-year internal journey, including the restoration and remastering process of 101 animated shorts. Nearly half of these cartoons have had no previous Home Entertainment release in any format. Many have not been seen in decades subsequent to their original theatrical release, or as part of early television-era airings, which came from substandard, edited elements.

All of the cartoons in the collection have now undergone varying degrees of remastering from the best available 35mm elements, including archival nitrate sources.

“Fans will finally see these cartoons just as they were originally seen in the theaters, and that includes some of these treasured shorts – like Slap Happy Pappy and early Chuck Jones works like Porky’s Prize Pony and Porky’s Ant – that actually haven’t been publicly seen in decades,” Feltenstein explains. “We’re especially proud to make all of these cartoons available in one comprehensive collection.”

Porky Pig 101 gives a unique overview not only of the title character, but of the growth and development of the Warner Bros. cartoons, and the incredible animation legends responsible for their creation. That assemblage of Hall of Fame talent includes animators such as Tex Avery, Bob Clampett, Friz Freleng, Chuck Jones, Robert McKimson and Frank Tashlin. Porky Pig 101 also offers insight into the auditory excellence of Warner Bros. cartoons with the impact of Mel Blanc’s arrival at the studio, and his outstanding vocal characterizations leading the studio’s already-impressive array of voice performers, and Carl Stalling’s brilliant musical direction to underscore these shorts with unparalleled wit and acumen.

“What sets WB cartoons apart from the rest of the pack are their incredible pacing and dedication to comedy,” Feltenstein says. “These shorts were created to make people laugh, and some eight decades later, they still do just that. This is truly a must-have collection.”

Bonus features on Porky Pig 101 include commentary on 13 animated shorts by animation and film experts like historians Jerry Beck and Michael Barrier, notable animators Mark Kausler (Beauty and the Beast) and Eddie Fitzgerald (Tiny Toon Adventures), musicologist Daniel Goldmark, animator/director John Kricfalusi (Ren & Stimpy), renowned inker/painter Martha Sigall, and legendary live-action directors Frank Tashlin (Susan Slept Here, The Glass Bottom Boat) and Joe Dante (Gremlins, Innerspace).

Note: Porky Pig 101 is Intended for the Adult Collector and May Not Be Suitable for Children.

In celebration of the upcoming September 18^th national holiday, Cheeseburger Day, 20^th Century Fox Consumer Products announces a wide assortment of drool-worthy merchandise around the acclaimed FOX series, BOB’S BURGERS. The eighth season of BOB’S BURGERS kicks off Sunday, Oct. 1 (7:30-8:00 PM ET/PT) on FOX with a special episode that will feature animation inspired by fan-created artwork. 

Following up last year’s Cheeseburger Day celebration, Fox Consumer Products teams up once again with BoxLunch, a cause-driven pop-culture gift store, to showcase BOB’S BURGERS merchandise and help provide meals to people in need. A limited edition Tina Funko Pop! Vinyl Figure debuts just in time for National Cheeseburger Day and will be sold exclusively at BoxLunch stores and BoxLunch.com starting September 18^th. The Tina Funko Pop! collectible will retail for $12.90 and each purchase, BoxLunch will donate a total of 11 meals* to Feeding America – 10 meals** coming directly from the sale of each figure plus an additional meal that is donated for every $10 spent at BoxLunch*. This campaign takes place during Feeding America’s Hunger Action Month™, which brings attention to the reality of food insecurity in the United States and promotes ways for individuals across the country to get involved in the fight to help end hunger.

Additionally, BoxLunch presents a menu of BOB’S BURGERS merchandise offered in-stores and online:

• Apparel: Louise ‘See You In Hell’ Tee, Tina ‘Uhhhhh’ Tee,  Gene ‘Indoor’ Tee  and a BoxLunch exclusive “dad hat” featuring Tina
• Bathroom Accessories: Louise Toothbrush holder and Bob’s Burgers Soap Dish
• And Kuchi Kopi novelties including Kuchi Kopi Soap Dispenser and a Kuchi Kopi Mug

Coinciding with National Cheeseburger Day, Fox Consumer Products also reveals a wide-range of licensing partners surrounding BOB’S BURGERS.

Highlights below and selection of downloadable images here:

Gene Beefsquatch Figure. Kidrobot brings you the baddest burger loving middle child of the Belcher’s in Beefsquatch form. Standing 7” tall, rocking a removable Squatch mask and megaphone, this figure is ready to pop it and lock it into your collection. Additionally, Kidrobot.com has an exclusive “THIS IS ME NOW” purple colorway. ($49.99, Kidrobot)

Tina Figure. Break out your lipstick and get your hair into a side pony for the Bob’s Burgers x Kidrobot Bad Tina Belcher Medium Art Toy Figure. Standing 7” tall, this bad girl comes complete with a removable notebook of erotic friend fiction. ($49.99, Kidrobot)

Just in time for the grand re-re-re-opening of Bob’s Burgers comes the Bob’s Burgers x Kidrobot Blind Box Vinyl Mini Series! Collect all your favorite Belchers and a few of their favorite friends to have some serious fun. ($9.99 each, Kidrobot)

Kidrobot also unveils BOB’S BURGERS enamel pins. Featuring designs from the hit BOB’S BURGERS Mini Series and coming in the blind box style Kidrobot is known for, this pin series is the perfect way to chorizo your own adventure and style on all your favorite accessories. Add all 16 Bobs Burgers Pins to your collection today. ($5.99 each, Kidrobot)

BOB’S BURGERS Backpack – So while you may not be able to swing by Bob’s Burgers for a bite of today’s special, you can wear the whole dang shop and half the town thanks to this awesome backpack from Sprayground. As with all of their designs, this bag was produced in a limited run and will never be produced again – because frankly it’s just too good to last forever. ($65, Sprayground)

BOB’S BURGERS Talking Cheeseburger Button includes a BOB’S BURGERS burger-shaped button that plays 25 hilarious lines from the show featuring the voices of the stars. The kit also comes with a 48-page book featuring quotes and full-color illustrations ($12.95, Running Press)

A 20th Century Fox Television production, Bob’s Burgers was created by Loren Bouchard (Home Movies).  Bouchard and Jim Dauterive (King of the Hill) serve as executive producers and writers, with animation produced by Bento Box Entertainment. Fans can “like” Bob’s Burgers on Facebook at www.facebook.com/BobsBurgers, follow the series on Twitter and Instagram @BobsBurgersFOX and join the discussion using #bobsburgers.