Every year, the International Toy Fair in New York delivers a score of toy-related images onto the Internet, many of them items that are being seen for the first time. Diamond Select Toys will have a slew of new products – and even a few new licenses – at the show this year, which runs from February 17-20, and now they’re giving us a sneak peek!

Check out new action figures, statues, banks, busts, dolls, vinyl figures and Minimates from Pacific Rim, The Predator, Kingdom Hearts, Batman: The Animated Series, Marvel Comics, Marvel Studios and more! Then see your local comic shop or favorite online retailer to pre-order yours! Look for them this summer!

Batman Animated Ra’s Al Ghul Resin Bust

A Diamond Select Toys Release! The Demon’s Head has arrived! One of Batman’s oldest villains joins his rogues gallery as part of DST’s bust line based on Batman: The Animated Series! Featuring his distinctive appearance from the show, this approximately 6-inch resin bust of Ra’s Al Ghul is ready to pounce on a pedestal base inspired by the architecture of Gotham City. This bust is limited to only 3,000 pieces, and comes packaged in a hand-numbered, full-color box with a certificate of authenticity. Sculpted by Varner Studios! (Item #FEB182293, SRP: $59.99)

Also Coming Soon:

• Clayface Bust (Item #DEC172270, SRP: $59.99)
• Killer Croc Bust (Item #JAN182370, SRP: $59.99)

Batman Classic TV Series Batgirl Vinyl Bust Bank

A Diamond Select Toys Release! Nananananananana bat-bank! DST’s detailed and affordable line of vinyl banks based on the Batman Classic TV Series continues with a new character — Barbara Gordon, a.k.a. Batgirl! The purple powerhouse is now a 7-inch vinyl bank, with a coin slot on the back and an access door in the base. With the authentic likeness of actress Yvonne Craig and collectible-quality sculpting and paint applications, this bank comes packaged in a clear polybag. Hand-sculpted by Jean St. Jean! (Item #JAN182371, SRP: $22.99)

DC Vinimates Injustice Vinyl Figures

A Diamond Select Toys Release! The DC Vinimates line returns to the world of DC Comics-inspired video games with three vinyl figures based on the world of Injustice!  Batman, Black Manta and Harley Quinn each feature their game-specific outfits, with Black Manta wielding twin daggers and Harley Quinn packing a pistol. Each Vinimate stands approximately 4 inches tall and is sculpted in a block-figure style. Each comes packaged in a full-color window box.

• Batman Vinyl Figure (Item #FEB182295, SRP: $9.99)
• Black Manta Vinyl Figure (Item #FEB182296, SRP: $9.99)
• Harley Quinn Vinyl Figure (Item #FEB182297, SRP: $9.99)

Also Coming Soon:

• DC Vinimates Comic Series 3 Batman Vinyl Figure (Item #JAN182373, SRP: $9.99)
• DC Vinimates Comic Series 3 Catwoman Vinyl Figure (Item #JAN182374, SRP: $9.99)
• DC Vinimates Comic Series 3 Batwoman Vinyl Figure (Item #JAN182375, SRP: $9.99)
• DC Vinimates Supergirl TV Show Supergirl Vinyl Figure (Item #DEC172256, SRP: $9.99)
• DC Vinimates Supergirl TV Show Martian Manhunter Vinyl Figure (Item #DEC172257, SRP: $9.99)

DC Gallery Arrow TV PVC Diorama

A Diamond Select Toys Release! You have failed this city! The Green Arrow brings his brand of justice to the DC Gallery line with this sculpture of Oliver Queen from the CW TV series Arrow! Based on Stephen Amell’s portrayal of the character on the show, this 9-inch PVC diorama shows him drawing an arrow from his quiver atop a Starling City rooftop. This sculpture features detailed sculpting and paint applications and comes packaged in a full-color window box. Sculpted by Rocco Tartamella!

PVC Diorama   SRP: $45.00

Also Coming Soon:

• DC Gallery Flash TV Series PVC Diorama (Item #JAN182372, SRP: $45.00)
• DC Gallery Supergirl TV Show PVC Diorama (Item #DEC172255, SRP: $45.00)
• DC Gallery Justice League Movie Wonder Woman PVC Diorama (Item #DEC172251, SRP: $45.00)

Femme Fatales Gallery Dawn Executive Goddess PVC Statue

A Diamond Select Toys Release! It’s business time! The ever-changing Dawn, star of Joseph Michael Linsner’s comic books of the same name, returns to the Femme Fatales PVC statue line with this 9-inch sculpture of her in her Executive Goddess attire! You’ll have your fingers crossed for a hostile takeover once you get this statue onto your conference table! Made of high-quality plastic with collectible-quality paint applications, this statue comes packaged in a full-color window box. Designed by Joseph Michael Linsner, and sculpted by Sam Greenwell! (Item #FEB182299, SRP: $45.00)

Kingdom Hearts Select Action Figures Series 2 Asst.

A Diamond Select Toys Release! It’s time to return to the Kingdom! The second series of Kingdom Hearts Select Action Figures brings fans new, beloved Disney characters as well as characters created for the Kingdom Hearts series of games! Three sets of figures arrive in Series 2, including Roxas with Donald Duck and Goofy, Pete with Chip and Dale and a Soldier, and Aqua with Goofy in his Birth By Sleep Outfit! Action figures range from 2 to 7 inches tall and feature multiple points of articulation. Each set comes packaged in the display-ready Select action figure packaging with side-panel artwork. Sculpted by Oluf W. Hartvigsen! (Item #SEP178688, SRP: $24.99/ea.)

Kingdom Hearts Vinimates Vinyl Figures Series 2

A Diamond Select Toys Release! The toy story continues! The Vinimates line dives deeper into the world of Kingdom Harts with three new 4-inch vinyl figures based on the hit video game series. Organization 13 Mickey Mouse, in his black coat, is joined by his old rival Pete, as well as Tron in his Tron-style outfit from Space Paranoids! Each figure is sculpted in the block-figure style, striking a pose inspired by the game. Each comes packaged in a full-color window box.

• Org. 13 Mickey Vinyl Figure (Item #JAN182365, SRP: $9.99)
• Pete Vinyl Figure (Item #JAN182366, SRP: $9.99)
• Space Paranoids Sora Vinyl Figure (Item #JAN182367, SRP: $9.99)

Marvel Gallery Savage Land Rogue PVC Diorama

A Diamond Select Toys Release! She’ll steal your powers, and your heart! This 9-inch sculpture of the X-Men’s Rogue is based on her famous Savage Land storyline, in which the power-absorbing mutant found herself stranded with Magneto in the Antarctic paradise. Based on Jim Lee’s artwork, this 9-inch PVC diorama shows Rogue in her distinctive outfit from the story, and features detailed sculpting and paint applications. Packaged in a full-color window box. Sculpted by Alejandro Pereira! (Item #FEB182308, SRP: $45.00)

Also Coming Soon:

• Marvel Gallery Black Panther Movie PVC Diorama (Item #DEC172278, SRP: $45.00)
• Marvel Gallery Black Panther Movie Killmonger PVC Diorama (Item #JAN182376, SRP: $45.00)
• Marvel Gallery Black Widow Comic PVC Diorama (Item #DEC172277, SRP: $45.00)
• Marvel Gallery Netflix Punisher Version 2 PVC Diorama (Item #JAN182377, SRP: $45.00)

Marvel Premier Collection Elektra Resin Statue

A Diamond Select Toys Release! She’ll pierce your heart, and we don’t mean figuratively! This breathtaking sculpture of Marvel’s premier assassin is posed atop a marbled pedestal, holding her signature twin sais. Measuring approximately 16 inches tall, this 12-inch scale statue features detailed hand sculpting by Clayburn Moore, as well as high-quality paint applications. Statue comes packaged in a full-color box with a hand-numbered certificate of authenticity. Limited to only 3,000 pieces! (Item #FEB182309, SRP: $150.00)

Also Coming Soon:

• Marvel Premier Collection Cable Resin Statue (Item #DEC172279, SRP: $150.00)

Nightmare Before Christmas Deluxe Collection Cloth Dolls

A Diamond Select Toys Release! The Nightmare Before Christmas Deluxe Collection is back, and it’s more deluxe than ever before! Two new releases take the line into new territory, with Snowman Jack — who includes a removable snowman costume, with hat and umbrella – and Lock, Shock and Barrel, the line’s first three-pack, with removable hat and masks! Each cloth-costumed figure looks like it stepped off the movie screen, with multiple points of articulation. Lock, Shock and Barrel measure approximately 5 inches tall, and Jack measures 16 inches tall with doll stand.

• Snowman Jack Doll (Item #FEB182304, SRP: $79.99)
• Lock Shock Barrel Dolls (Item #FEB182305, SRP: $74.99)

Nightmare Before Christmas Resin Busts

A Diamond Select Toys Release! Turn your shelf into a nightmare! The cast of Tim Burton’s Nightmare Before Christmas continues to populate DST’s line of resin busts. Featuring the movie’s most popular characters atop diorama bases, the line continues with villain Oogie Boogie and Jack Skellington’s dog, Zero. Oogie measures approximately 7 inches tall atop a pedestal inspired by his lair, while Zero stands approximately 4 inches tall atop a pile of books and a jack o’lantern. Each bust is limited to 3,000 pieces and includes a numbered certificate of authenticity in a full-color box. Sculpted by Joe Menna!

• Oogie Boogie Bust (Item #FEB182306, SRP: $59.99)
• Zero Bust (Item #FEB182307, SRP: $59.99)

Pacific Rim Uprising Select Action Figures Series 2 Asst.

A Diamond Select Toys Release! Cancel the apocalypse! Three new Jaegers are joining the fight against the kaiju menace, and each giant robot is cooler than the last! The mysterious Obsidian Fury with his twin blades, Guardian Bravo with his mace, and Titan Redeemer with his whip each measure between 7 and 8 inches tall, and each features approximately 16 points of articulation, plus interchangeable parts that are exclusively available to the specialty market! Packaged in display-ready Select action figure packaging, with side-panel artwork for shelf reference. Sculpted by Gentle Giant Studios! (Item #JAN182369, SRP: $24.99/ea.)

The Predator Movie Minimates Box Set

A Diamond Select Toys Release! The Predator is back, and it’s all brand-new! Shane Black’s new take on the Predator franchise is joining the Predator Minimates line, and this box set includes four figures from the upcoming film that are exclusive to comic shops and specialty stores! Each Minimates mini-figures stands approximately 2 inches tall with 14 points of articulation and feature fully interchangeable parts and accessories. Packaged in a full-color blister card. (Item #FEB182298, SRP: $24.99)

Find a comic shop at comicshoplocator.com!

January 23

City of Rock

Da Peng’s highly anticipated sophomore film, City of Rock, follows Hu Liang, a young man from a small town in China, who wants to protect the town’s treasured Rock Park from redevelopment by a corporate real estate agent. Hoping to save the park by organizing a charity rock concert, he partners with music agent Cheng Gong. But when he’s offered a large payout to cancel the concert, will Hu Liang choose money or will he save the beloved town park?

Little Bitches

Annie, Marisa and Kelly are three rowdy, wild, and rebellious high school freshman friends determined not to take crap from anyone and always have each other’s backs. Besties since always, the three women vow to open their college acceptance letters together at their epic senior bash in four years.  Instead, life conspires to pull them apart and the tight buddies become best frenemies by senior year. Things look bad unless they can somehow find the friendship they’ve lost in this crazy, twisted, coming-of-age female-empowerment comedy. Starring Kiersey Clemons, Virginia Gardner and Jennette McCurdy.

January 30

Professor Marston and The Wonder Women

Written and Directed by Angela Robinson (“True Blood”) comes an extraordinary story based on true events of the creator of one of the most iconic super heroes ever conceived, and the seductive secret life he kept from his fans starring: Luke Evans (Beauty and the Beast, The Fate of the Furious), Rebecca Hall (Iron Man 3), and Bella Heathcote (Fifty Shades Darker).

Based off a true story that takes place in the 1940s about a Harvard professor and psychologist who created the beloved comic book character Wonder Woman inspired by his feminist wife and mistress where he drew imagination for the look stumbling in a burlesque shop run by Charles Guyette in New York known later as the “G-String King.” Professor Marston also created the modern day lie detector with his wife and mistress where one test revealed his mistress was also in love with his wife, later bearing children with both of them.

Roman J. Israel, Esq.

Roman J. Israel, Esq. is a dramatic thriller set in the overburdened Los Angeles criminal court system. Denzel Washington stars as a driven, idealistic defense attorney whose life is suddenly disrupted. When he is recruited to join a firm led by an ambitious lawyer George Pierce (Colin Farrell) – and begins a friendship with a young champion of equal rights (Carmen Ejogo), a turbulent series of events ensue that will put the activism that has defined Roman’s career to the test.

FEBRUARY 6

RV: Resurrected Victims

In the near future, murder victims have begun coming back to life with the sole purpose of avenging their deaths. Jin-hong (KIM Rae-won) is a cold-hearted prosecutor who’s obsessed with catching the man that killed his mother- but when she returns home, intent on killing him, he quickly becomes the lead suspect.

Art via DC Entertainment

Warner Bros. Television and DC Entertainment today announced that Gotham executive producers John Stephens and Danny Cannon will explore the world of Metropolis in an all-new live-action drama series to air exclusively on the upcoming DC-branded direct-to-consumer digital service, operated by Warner Bros. Digital Networks. Metropolis has received a direct-to-series order for a first season of 13 episodes and will go into production later this year for a debut on the service in 2019.

Set in the wondrous and awe-inspiring City of Tomorrow before the arrival of Superman, Metropolis follows Lois Lane and Lex Luthor as they investigate the world of fringe science and expose the city’s dark and bizarre secrets.

John Stephens (Gotham, Gossip Girl, The O.C., Gilmore Girls) and Danny Cannon (Gotham, Nikita, CSI series) are the executive producers of Metropolis. Danny Cannon will direct the first episode, from a teleplay by John Stephens, with story by Cannon and Stephens. Based on characters created by Jerry Siegel and Joe Shuster, published by DC, Metropolis is produced by Warner Bros. Television.

The order for Metropolis marks the fourth announced series for the new DC digital service, which will deliver an immersive experience designed just for DC fans. Additional programs include Warner Bros. Television’s live-action drama Titans, as well as Warner Bros. Animation’s Harley Quinn and Young Justice: Outsiders.

For updates on Metropolis and the other exciting new series and the upcoming DC digital service, visit www.DCFanUpdates.com.

Every year, the highlight of the “awards season” is the annual ceremony where the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences gives out their 8.5 lb gold-plated bronze statuette, commonly known by its name given by Margaret Herrick, the Academy’s secretary because it reminded her of her uncle.

Of course, I’m talking about the Oscars – but enough of the trivia for now.

Each year, the Oscars decide which of the many movies released in the previous year are good enough from an artistic and cinematographic point of view to be named “best”. While this doesn’t always coincide with what the viewers consider best (Wonder Woman, the biggest blockbuster of 2017, didn’t receive any nominations), winning them gives a certain prestige to the receiver. But this year, there are several movies on the shortlist that had the power to keep us away from our favorite pokie reviews and mobile games, at least for a while.

These are the movies to root for at this year’s Academy Awards – better known as Oscars.

The Shape of Water

Image via Fox Searchlight

Guillermo del Toro has once again created something special by melding drama, romance, and fantasy in his unique and inimitable way. The protagonist of the film is the Amphibian Man (a bit similar to Abe Sapien from another del Toro flick, Hellboy) held in captivity for research by the military. A mute janitor, Elisa (Sally Hawkins) forms an unlikely relationship with the strange creature (played by the same Doug Jones who gave life to Abe Sapien) that evolves into a story described by many as a “romantic dark fantasy”.

The Shape of Water received nominations in the “Best Picture”, “Lead Actress”, “Supporting Actor” and “Supporting Actress”, “Best Director”, “Original Screenplay”, “Cinematography”, “Film Editing”, “Sound Editing”, “Production Design”, “Original Score”, and “Costume Design” categories.

Get Out

Image via Universal Studios

The Sixth Sense was the last horror movie to receive an Oscar in 1999 (not counting, of course, Guillermo del Toro’s Pan’s Labyrinth, considered for the award of the best foreign film in 2006).

Before that, we’ve had The Silence of the Lambs in 1990, Jaws in 1976, and The Exorcist in 1973. So, the four nominations received by last year’s “Get Out” came as a surprise to many. Horror movies don’t usually make it to the Oscars, with the exception of a few truly “weighty” and “dramatic” ones – Get Out seems to have all the necessary qualities, it seems.

Get Out was nominated for the “Best Picture”, “Lead Actor” (Daniel Kaluuya), “Best Director” (Jordan Peele), and the “Best Original Screenplay” awards.

All movies nominated for the “Best Visual Effects”

Image via Warner Bros.

This is the category where the opinions of the Academy and those of the public seem to meet. Visual effects can make or break a movie’s success today. But there’s a reason why the films nominated in this category received no nods for any other – they rely a bit too much on their visuals for them to be considered “artistic” enough for the Academy. But each of them is the result of hard work by the FX guys, so they all have to be honored in some way.

This year’s nominees for the “Best Visual Effects” Oscars are Blade Runner 2049, John Nelson, Paul Lambert, Richard R. Hoover, Gerd Nefzer; Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 2, Christopher Townsend, Guy Williams, Jonathan Fawkner, Dan Sudick; Kong: Skull Island, Stephen Rosenbaum, Jeff White, Scott Benza, Mike Meinardus; Star Wars: The Last Jedi, Ben Morris, Mike Mulholland, Chris Corbould, Neal Scanlan; and War for the Planet of the Apes, Joe Letteri, Dan Lemmon, Daniel Barrett, Joel Whist.

HISTORY greenlights the ten episode unscripted series “In Search Of,” hosted and executive produced by Emmy-nominated actor Zachary Quinto (Star Trek, Snowden). Inspired by the iconic 1970s’ franchise, the series will examine unexplained phenomena from all over the world. UFOs and paranormal mysteries remain relevant as the Pentagon recently acknowledged a secret UFO program which investigated sightings of UFOs from 2007 – 2012.

“I am so excited to be reimagining ‘In Search Of’ and exploring new questions and phenomena with all of the advancements in science and technology from which we have benefited in the past forty years since the original series first aired,” said Quinto. “In the spirit of my late dear friend Leonard Nimoy, we intend to honor and perpetuate his endless curiosity about the world – and universe – in which we live. Our director Eddie Schmidt and our partners at Propagate, Universal Television Alternative Studio and FremantleMedia International have ignited the process with enthusiasm and intelligence, and HISTORY is the perfect home for this unique and compelling series.”

“In the ‘70s and ‘80s, the legendary Leonard Nimoy captivated viewers by transporting them through the world of unsolved mysteries and paranormal phenomena,” said Eli Lehrer, Executive Vice President of Programming, HISTORY. “To this day, the investigations conducted in this series remain relevant and a source of public obsession. Now with Zachary’s passion and prevalence in the science fiction genre, the groundbreaking series is back for a new audience.”

From the mythical to the scientific, each episode will follow Quinto as he investigates a different subject within a dynamic theme – such as alien encounters, mysterious creatures, UFO sightings, time travel and artificial intelligence – and searches for the truth to some of the world’s greatest mysteries. “In Search Of” will explore enigmas told through the eyes of witnesses and scholars with a personal connection to the phenomenon and include immersive demonstrations and experiments that contextualize each episode’s theme. The original “In Search Of” series aired from 1977-1982 and was hosted by Rod Serling and later by Leonard Nimoy following Serling’s death.

“In Search Of” joins HISTORY’s programming slate that includes one of its longest running nonfiction series “Ancient Aliens,” which has reached over 47 million Total Viewers across total day in 2017, and upcoming scripted series “Blue Book.” During season ten, “Ancient Aliens” ranked as ad-supported cable’s #2 original series on Friday nights among Adults 25-54. Executive produced by Robert Zemeckis and starring Aidan Gillen (“Game of Thrones”), “Blue Book” will chronicle the true top secret United States Air Force-sponsored investigations into UFO-related phenomena in the 1950s and ‘60s known as “Project Blue Book.”

“In Search Of” is produced for HISTORY by Propagate Content, Universal Television Alternative Studio and Before the Door Pictures with FremantleMedia International distributing the series globally. Quinto serves as executive producer. Ben Silverman, Howard Owens and Brett-Patrick Jenkins are executive producers for Propagate Content. Eddie Schmidt is also executive producer. Zachary Behr is executive producer for HISTORY.

Most people will have probably heard a thing or two about Bitcoin or cryptocurrencies, especially with the huge spikes in value seen in the market recently. As a result of this, and the increasing view of it being a safe haven for investors; Bitcoins are gaining more and more mainstream attention, with people as well as businesses taking an interest in the digital currency.

What we’re seeing now is that more retailers and service providers are accepting Bitcoin as a valid payment method, and this has been praised by many. The online gaming and gambling world have been one of the first to embrace the currency; as historically they have never been one to shy away from innovation and change. However, one has to ask whether Bitcoins and online gaming will really survive as a perfect match and prosper in the future?

First of all, there is no doubt that some players do have reservations on how secure and safe transactions really are. Furthermore, there is the issue of how the personal and financial data is stored and managed by online casino operators. These concerns are real, as there have been several instances in the past where very respected and reputable companies like Tesco and Yahoo have been the victims of huge public breaches in their data security.

The online gaming industry is no different, with registered players very cautious about sharing their personal and banking details. In fact, it can be argued that online casino and gaming players are even more paranoid about sharing personal information than other customers in the online retail world.

So that, in this respect, Bitcoin is perfect for the online gaming space. This is because secure transactions and anonymity are the unique selling points when it comes to Bitcoin. Unlike more regular and more widely accepted banking methods, when a transaction is taking place using Bitcoin, no personal or financial details are shared at any point. This means there is no risk of any type of fraud taking place, with almost no personal and/or financial details ever at risk of being misused or stolen (aside from player verifications which, as any legislated online or mobile gaming provider will tell you).

Bitcoin guarantees this need that players have to be totally secure, with the peace of mind that their details are as secure as possible.  Also, with no information being required when making transactions, it allows people to gamble discretely too.

Online gambling is a global phenomenon, with people from all over the world logging on and playing on a daily basis. Bitcoin can be used from literally anywhere where there is an internet connection. So whatever country someone may be in, they will still be able to use it as a payment method, and they won’t ever have to worry about transaction fees and charges, solely the exchange rate. Furthermore, players will never have problems such as their card being declined either.

The reality is, not only could Bitcoin make online gaming very much safer, it could also make things a whole lot more  convenient for players and leading mobile casino operators like mFortune too. We live in a world where everybody would like to conduct their affairs online in a safe, secure and cost effective manner. Furthermore, it has to be convenient and reliable; and this is exactly what Bitcoin guarantees every time. Knowing this, there is no doubt in our minds that Bitcoin and online gaming is a relationship that will soon possess all the attributes to ensure prosperity and eventually rival mainstream banking methods.

Three overwhelmed and overworked mothers are ambushed during the holidays by their own moms in the hilarious and heartfelt comedy, A Bad Moms Christmas, available now on Digital and on Blu-ray, DVD and On Demand on February 6, 2018 from STXfilms and Universal Pictures Home Entertainment.

The original trio of suburban Chicago pals, Mila Kunis (Ted), Kristen Bell (Forgetting Sarah Marshall), and Kathryn Hahn (“Transparent”), are joined by newcomers Christine Baranski (“The Good Wife”), Cheryl Hines (“Curb Your Enthusiasm”), and Susan Sarandon (“Feud”) as the leading ladies’ respective mothers in this sequel to 2016’s breakout hit Bad Moms. Raunchy, witty, and fun, A Bad Moms Christmas, from STXfilms, also stars Justin Hartley (“This Is Us”) and Peter Gallagher (“Law & Order: SVU”) and offers a hysterical look into the lives of moms dealing with familial pressures and expectations during the holidays. The bonus gag reel, deleted scenes and extended music video on Blu-ray, DVD and Digital deliver tons of laughs from the all-star comedic cast.

And we’re giving away a copy!

To enter, send an email with the subject header “BAD MOMS CHRISTMAS” to geekcontest @ gmail dot com and answer the following question:

Mila Kunis and Kristen Bell’s husbands co-starred on this MTV hidden camera 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 February 18th, 2018.

A few years back, controversial Archie Co-CEO Nancy Silberkleit, herself a former teacher, put out a comic book entitled Rise Above. Drawn by Stan Goldberg, it was the story of a young girl with braces being bullied at her school. I’m proud to say I worked behind the scenes on that one. In all my dealings with Nancy, I didn’t see any trace of the issues that have been put out there about her. No, what I witnessed first-hand was this woman’s genuine passion for comics as an educational tool.

Toward that end, Ms. Silberkleit now has another new project, and this time she’s brought some familiar faces along with her.

Kindness Works is something unique. It’s a 10-page short story featuring the classic versions of the Archie characters and yet you won’t find it at your local comic book shop. In fact, it’s only available—at least for now—as a PDF download direct from Nancy Silberkleit.

“I chose not to do mass distribution because the topic of inclusion is important not only to me but there is a seriousness to it today,” writes Nancy. “If the story went into a digest, I would not know if that digest got distributed to Pune, India, Dubai, Steamboat, Colorado, or would folks have read the stories…? Taking a hands-on approached allows me to do what I can for folks and hopefully they will do the same.”

The script for Kindness Works comes from Ray Felix, a well-known name in indie comics for a decade or so now. Outside of having Jughead seem to be Reggie’s sidekick rather than Archie’s, and helping the former make fun of the “weird kids” (He should talk!), what’s there is well-written. Story-wise, it’s rather slight and could do with being expanded. It seems to stop just as it gets going and we never really get to know our new character, Scarlett, any more than the Riverdale gang does.

The art is by Fernando Ruiz, in his first return to the Archie characters in several years now. Along with Dan Parent, Ruiz was unquestionably the best representation of the classic Bob Montana/Dan DeCarlo Archie style artist that the company had in recent decades. His insertion of Cosmo the Merry Martian (an obscure but now recently revived character published by Archie) in cameos in his stories became his Hitchcock-like trademark and yes, Cosmo—and Super Duck—pop up here, too!

Knowing full well how good Ruiz is, I suspect the inker is to blame for a few very amateurish looking panels and things like Scarlett’s rectangular glasses becoming ovals and then, in one panel, disappearing all together.

There is no plot, really. Just a situation. That situation is that the school where the more autistic students have been going has been closed and they’re now being bused to Riverdale High. We don’t meet any of these students and the only one named is Scarlett, who we quickly find out knew the gang when they were, as Archie puts it later, “tykes.”

Scarlett is shown to be uncomfortable with change and with loud noises. She is shown to have had, even as a child, an affinity for building things, although this is never followed up on or explained that this type of thing can be a part of autism.

Autism is a spectrum, and a wide one at that. I had to learn more than I ever expected to know about it when my son was diagnosed as being on the autism spectrum at age three. In his case, he got more of the good than the bad. He’s incredibly smart and currently enjoys a full scholarship ride in college. He does the handflapping—called stimming—so often associated with autism. At 21 he still has problems with fine motor skills. He is subject to seizures, is awkward in social situations, and is flummoxed if his regular routines change for any reason. He is also hilarious, politically astute, inventive, and just generally awesome.

I would have liked to find out more about where Scarlett was on the spectrum and her interactions with others would have shown that. Instead, other than the flashbacks, we see her being talked ABOUT the entire time and, as I said, the story stops just as it seems the gang is about to specifically interact with her.

There is a saying in the disability empowerment movement—“Nothing about us without us.” By making Scarlett solely the object of everyone’s curiosity and uncertainty, we never really get to meet Scarlett. And that makes me sad because she seems like a good character with lots of possibilities.

The story’s message is its title—“Kindness Works.” And that’s true, of course. It does work. But inclusiveness is also very important, as Nancy herself noted above. People on the Autism spectrum are no weirder than Jughead, Moose, or Dilton. They’re just different. Depending on where they are on that scale, they could be very, very different, or they could be so “normal” seeming that you might never know they were autistic. One could make that case, in fact, that Jughead, Moose, and Dilton ALL show signs of possible autism.

I applaud Nancy and crew for tackling a subject that needed to be tackled and I hope they intend to show us more of Scarlett going forward, somewhere, somehow, this time perhaps more from Scarlett’s point of view.

Kindness Works comes in a PDF from Nancy Silberkleit for $1.99, payable via PayPal to Nancy.archiecomics@gmail.com

Not perfect, perhaps, but unique and important! Just like the neuro-diverse Scarlett herself.

Booksteve Recommends

Welcome back to Graphic Breakdown!

It’s the fifth Wednesday of the month and that usually means the selection is slim. But that doesn’t mean the quality isn’t there! Let’s check out this week’s books!

Astro City #50
Written by Kurt Busiek
Illustrated by Brent Anderson

Kurt Busiek has stuck with writing Astro City for over 20 years.

Yet, his creation may be seeing some of the top stories he has ever produced. Busiek writes a fascinating tale here which is also highly emotional.

Michael Tenicek is a widower who has lost his wife during what can only be described as a “chronal cataclysm.” He takes it upon himself to meet others like him. He does and we hear their stories and they are wrenching.

Busiek knows how to connect on a human level like none other.

The art is great and compliments the story completely. This a a spiritual sequel to “The Nearness Of You” which is one of the best Astro City stories ever. Pick this up. It’s a landmark issue.

RATING: A

Dark Knights: Metal #5
Written by Scott Snyder
Illustrated by Greg Capullo

So Scott Snyder and Greg Capullo may need some shark repellent.

Why?

I’m starting to believe they have jumped the shark with their latest DC universe tale and I’m worried that they might get bit. Let me be clear: I’m enjoying it. But it’s totally wacky and out of it’s mind.

Our world is being invaded on all sides! The evil league of Batmen or whatever they are called are inflicting the planet with evil nightmares! Hawkman is out of control!

Only the Justice League can stop them. But can they?

Snyder is an inventive, clever man. The ideas in this are great. The execution lacks complete subtlety. The art by Capullo follows suit.

Again, he’s intensely creative but there is no nuance here. And that’s a shame because before this their ideas had a purpose. This just seems they wanted to go nuts. And so they have!

I’m enjoying it but I know it can be so much more.

RATING: B

Deathstroke Annual #1
Written by Christopher Priest
Illustrated by Denys Cowan

This was an unexpected delight this week. I had no idea it was being released, but man was it great.

Christopher Priest has done wonderful things writing this title and this issue follows suit.

Team Defiance has been pushed to the edge! One of their team members has been killed!

Who is to blame?

Deathstroke, of course!

Will this end Slade’s career as a hero? This is the finale of the Defiance storyline!

The story is great! The art by Denys Cowan is absolutely wonderful! Cowan has always been one of my favorites and here he excels!

Pick this up! It ends a really great storyline and sets up the next one perfectly! I loved it.

RATING: A

Flash Annual #1
Written Joshua Williamson
Illustrated by Christian Duce

Oh my god! This was awesome too!

This Annual is the “Flash War” prelude and it’s damn exciting! Joshua Williamson really knows what he’s doing on his title and now he takes it up a notch!

This issue stars the classic Wally West. He is conflicted on whether to tell Iris West he is alive!

He needs the Flash’s help on this one!

But Wally’s old love, Magenta, needs his help. This leads to a ton of conflicts and craziness!

The art on this is great too.

Seriously, I’m so excited about the Flash War that I can’t wait for the rest of the storyline.

Pick this up. It’s a great beginning to what looks like an amazing storyline!

RATING: A

Harley Quinn #36
Written by Frank Tieri
Illustrated by Inaki Miranda
Published by DC Comics

This is the second part of the “Man-Batter Up!” storyline. It’s not bad. I enjoy Tieri’s writing for the most part.

The only problem I have is that most Harley Quinn comics blend together for me.

This issue features the Man-Bat!

Harley Quinn crosses paths with him. Even worse, she gets juiced up on the Man-Bat serum making her have the powers of Man-Bat. It’s a serviceable story.

The art by Miranda is the best part here. It’s expressive and puts a smile on your face.

Pick this up if you’re a fan. It’s not Earth-shattering by any means, but it’s a decent enough comic book.

RATING: B

JLA/Doom Patrol Special #1
Written by Steve Orlando and Gerard Way
Illustrated by Aco

The Young Animal line collides with the DC Universe line.

It’s being billed as a “different kind of crossover.”

It certainly starts off that way with this tale written by the mighty Steve Orlando and Gerard Way.

The Doom Patrol discovers an inter-dimensional corporation called RetCo has been stealing storylines and repackaging them for new markets.

They get touched and start to feel the effects. It leads them down a crazy path towards the JLA and the the hero the Milkman Man.

Yup, it’s pretty crazy.

It’s also pretty smart. The story moves very well. The art for this first chapter of “Milk Wars” is also very damn good.

Pick this up. It’s a great start to a really cool storyline.

RATING: A-

Silencer #1
Written by Dan Abnett
Illustrated by John Romita Jr.

This is a beautiful new start to a new title.

Dan Abnett has been knocking it out of the park writing comic books these days. This is yet another feather in his cap!

The Silencer is one of the most deadly assassins in the DC Universe! Nobody has heard of her though!

She hangs out with the likes of Talia Al Ghul. Yet, who is she?

Well, now she’s trying to live a normal life. A normal family with a normal house.

We all know it won’t last long.

And it doesn’t.

Once it all goes to hell for her, it really goes to hell!

There are a lot of nice touches in this comic. The reason Honor Guest (Silencer’s real name) cuts her hair is one. I love that moment.

The art by John Romita Jr. is excellent as usual. Pick it up! It’s a great start to a cool new comic book!

RATING: A-

Motherlands #1
Written by Simon Spurrier
Illustrated by Rachael Stott

This brand new limited series is written by Simon Spurrier. I got hooked on this from the very first five pages and now I can’t wait to see where it goes. It’s a strong and crazy debut and I recommend picking it up.

It’s the near future!

There is a new breed of super criminals. They are getting hunted down by bounty hunters. The bounty hunter are the biggest celebrities in this world.

Tab, one such bounty hunter, is after her greatest prize yet. But to get to the prize, she has to work with her greatest enemy!

The art for this is quite good. I have been waiting for Stott to come aboard a series. This is her chance to shine and she does in this first issue.

Pick this up. It’s quite excellent.

RATING: B+

Mystik U #2
Written by Alisa Kwitney
Illustrated by Mike Norton

I have always liked Alisa Kwitney as a writer. She writes solid stories with a ton of depth.

So, it’s with glee that I read this book. I’m glad to report she’s still got it and this was an utter delight!

Classes are in full swing at Mystik U!

Zatanna is there and she’s a celebrity. This issue focused on her decision to rush with the sorority and what future choices she has to make in her relationship with Faust. This issue explores that balance.

The story is well done like I said before. The art is a little cartoony for me but it isn’t bad. I just prefer things that feel a little more grounded.

It’s a decent book though overall and I can’t wait to see how it ends next issue!

RATING: B

Detective Comics Annual #1
Written by James Tynion IV
Illustrated by Eber Ferreira and Eddy Barrows

DC sure didn’t skimp on the quality for the annuals since Rebirth. The annuals have had some fantastic talent involved.

I’m not a fan of the way Tynion writes Batman. However, I love the way he handles Clayface…

It’s really fortunate then that this issue focuses on the origin of Clayface! It even shows his first encounter with Batman!

Watch as actor Basil Karol has an accident that turns him into a monster!

The story is well done. The art is pretty well suited for it as well. This really is a nice annual.

Keep them coming, DC! You’re doing a great job!

RATING: B+

“Is America’s ready for a superhero? How about if she is a black 15-year-girl?”

That is the question that writer Kwanza Osajyefo (BLACK) poses to us in his newest release, BLACK [AF]: America’s Sweetheart. Eli Franklin is a teenager living in rural Montana with her adoptive family. And she just so happens to be the most powerful person on the planet. As she steps up to help people (while combating the fear of empowered blacks in the aftermath of the world finding that only black people have superpowers), “Good Girl” becomes the country’s first superhero, ready to save the day.

But when a super-terrorist goes on the warpath to destroy everything Eli holds dear, will the country stand behind her or be waiting with pitchforks in front?

America’s Sweetheart starts to expand the world created by Osajyefo and Tim Smith 3 in BLACK, which was illustrated by artist Jamal Igle with cover art by Khary Randolph. This newest outing is illustrated by next breakout artist Jennifer Johnson, with a slick and stylish cover by Sho Murase.

Forces of Geek spoke with Osajyefo regarding power dynamics, perceptions, and optimism in the face of reality.

*  *  *  *  *

FOG!: Eli seems incredibly young and pure, and has a very Norman Rockwell-esque family around her for the most part. What made you move the setting from cities and labs out to the country?

Kwanza Osajyefo: Expanding the BLACK universe means expanding the locations and therefore perspectives. The first book is framed with mostly coastal and urban settings. As the events at the end of BLACK have widespread implications, I wanted to reflect what those would be against the backdrop of BLACK [AF]: America’s Sweetheart taking place in the Midwest.

Even if she was without powers, Eli would have still grown up in as an interracial adoptee. Why was it important that she be othered in not one but two ways? Do you feel that a black adoptive family would have led to significantly different challenges?

Because that family dynamic you refer to is part of the black experience. I certainly think Eli’s upbringing would have been different with black adoptive parents, but then, those people could also have raised her with religious, conservative, and patriotic values.

Eli plays the role of the “good black superpowered girl” much in the same vein as a “well-behaved” black child may be held up as an example of approved behavior. Yet she seems to enjoy this role. Do you think that she is aware of the degree to which she serves as a reprimand to others who fail to “fall in line”?

That may be a misread of Eli’s intent, which is part of her struggles in the story. She is fundamentally altruistic in her goals, but not naive, simply optimistic. She doesn’t want to present herself as a contrast to shame other black people so much as she just wants to be a symbol of hope that she believes will quell fears of empowered blacks.

Her father must balance the roles of paternity and government employee. Which do you feel gives him more difficulty?

Paternity, I’d say. Director Franklin is in a precarious role where he holds certain views on what’s necessary for the common welfare all the while knowing his daughter could end up subject to the darker aspects of his own handiwork. He loves his child but also fears her and for her. It’s good fortune that how he raised Eli presents an opportunity to keep her somewhat safe.

Her sister is the embodiment of power, and was able to live for years in the same world that Eli did. Why did the years of peace not affect her views of her future captors?

I think because Zion was already an adult and had witnessed a much darker world, whereas Eli grew up in an environment where she could truly believe in the idealized America.

The showdown between the two was more than sister vs sister. In a way, it played out as respectability politics versus revolution via demolition. Why does each sister try so hard to pull the other to their side?

Both have a deep conviction in their beliefs and are fully aware of how the world regards empowered black people. Where Zion is more pessimistic and responding to the negative way in which we are perceived, Eli is looking to rise above that and be an example. Both girls are physically impervious to harm which is why, despite the theatrics of their superhuman conflict, it is really a battle on an emotional level.

Who do you feel this story, versus the others in the series, will most resonate with? Did you have someone in particular in mind when you wrote it?

BLACK [AF]: America’s Sweetheart can be read by anyone, though I wanted to write this story in the tone of YA fiction. The themes and artwork are all intended to appeal to a younger, and hopefully broader, group of readers.

In particular, I wanted to present a young black female superhero to readers. Part of what inspired BLACK was this gross lack of representation of our demographic, and in this case gender, in mainstream comics.

Why does Eli keep coming back to defend those who so quickly distanced themselves from her?

In short, because she is better than them. Eli is intrinsically a good person and that doesn’t come just from how she was raised but what she actually believes because of that. She isn’t blind to the realities around her, she simply thinks she can overcome them.

How can the rift between those with superpowers and those without be mended? Do you believe that there can ever be peace between the two, or will tensions always simmer just beneath the surface?

I think in the world of BLACK you have an added layer of tension because only black people are expressing superpowers.

It is a situation that reflects a lot of things bubbling at the surface of society – in particular the inability to reconcile with the past and its impact today.

At the end of the day, it does not seem that the question of “Is the world ready for its first superhero to be black?” has been completely answered. Are there other questions the reader should be asking themselves throughout the story?

I don’t know that it is completely answered.

I think the ending leaves us with even more to consider about how we treat each other. Who people say they are and what they actually do are in perpetual conflict, so I wanted to introduce a person in BLACK [AF]: America’s Sweetheart who is who she says she is, and perhaps it is us who are not ready.

BLACK [AF]: America’s Sweetheart is available today in both print and digital

Building the better shark still isn’t a good idea in Deep Blue Sea 2, the long-awaited sequel to the hit theatrical thriller coming this spring from Warner Bros. Home Entertainment. The feature-length film arrives on Blu-ray Combo Pack, DVD and Digital starting April 17, 2018.

In Deep Blue Sea 2, shark conservationist Dr. Misty Calhoun (Danielle Savre) is invited to consult on a new, top secret project run by pharmaceutical billionaire Carl Durant (Michael Beach). She believes the project, performed at a remote, sea-based facility, focuses on extracting shark antibodies to help work toward cures for human diseases. However, Dr. Calhoun is shocked to learn that the company is using unpredictable bull sharks as its test subjects, and Durant has bio-engineered a shiver of highly intelligent, super-aggressive bull sharks. When science meddles with the time-tested process of nature and nurture, the outcome can be deadly.

Deep Blue Sea 2 will be available on Blu-ray Combo Pack ($24.98 SRP) and DVD ($19.98 SRP), as well as Digital. The Blu-ray Combo Pack features the film in hi-definition, a standard definition DVD and a digital version of the film. The DVD features the movie in standard definition. Deep Blue Sea 2 is rated R for creature violence and gore, and language.

The film is directed by two-time Independent Spirit Award nominee Darin Scott (Menace II Society, To Sleep With Anger), and written by Hans Rodionoff (Lost Boys: The Tribe) and award-winning writing partners Jessica Scott & Eric Patterson (Another Cinderella Story). Tom Keniston (Sophia Grace & Rosie’s Royal Adventure) serves as executive producer, and Tom Siegrist (Santa’s Little Helper, The Exorcism of Molly Hartley) is the film’s producer.

Deep Blue Sea 2 stars Danielle Savre (Heroes, Boogeyman 2) in the lead role of shark conservationist Dr. Misty Calhoun; Rob Mayes (John Dies at the End, Mistresses) as Trent Slater, a highly decorated ex-Navy SEAL; and Michael Beach (Third Watch, The 100, upcoming Aquaman) as Carl Durant, a big pharma billionaire with questionable ethics. Rounding out the cast is Nathan Lynn (Outlander) as tech expert Aaron Ellroy, Kim Syster (Sterlopers) as neurobiologist Leslie Kim, and Jeremy Jess Boado (House Party: Tonight’s the Night) as clinical neurophysiologist Daniel Kim.

Deep Blue Sea 2 is the much-anticipated sequel to Deep Blue Sea (1999), the Renny Harlin-directed thriller that featured Thomas Jane, Samuel L. Jackson, Saffron Burrows and LL Cool J in a film where shark research went similarly awry. The film finished its theatrical run with a robust $164 million in worldwide box office.

“Deep Blue Sea 2 is a true sequel, staying within the mythology of the original film, and taking the next step in the evolution of the sharks … and their human counterparts,” said Mary Ellen Thomas, WBHE, Vice President, TV Marketing, Family & Animation. “This time, there’s more perspective from the sharks, giving greater personality to the ‘villains’ in this film. It’s a thrill ride that will keep the audience guessing throughout.”

Deep Blue Sea 2 Enhanced Content
Blu-ray Combo Pack, DVD and Digital

• Returning to the Deep – The Making of Deep Blue Sea 2 (Featurette) – Go behind the scenes with the cast and crew of Deep Blue Sea 2 as they film the highly-anticipated sequel.
• Deep Blue Sea 2: Death by Shark (Featurette) – In this wildly fun featurette, the cast and crew of Deep Blue Sea 2 discuss their characters’ demise and the jump-out-of-your-seat moments in the film.
• Deep Blue Silliness (Gag Reel) – A collection of fun outtakes and bloopers from the feature film showcasing the cast and production team.
• Deleted Scenes – A few filmed moments that didn’t make the final cut of Deep Blue Sea 2. But we know you still want to see them.

The Museum of Illustration at The Society of Illustrators presents THE ART OF MIKE MIGNOLA: Hellboy and Other Curious Objects, a selection of works from Mike Mignola, comic artist and writer behind the award-winning Dark Horse Comics series Hellboy, on display March 6 – April 21.
In this specialized exhibit, Mignola reveals some of his best pieces, providing viewer a look into his dark, spectral perspective. With his easily recognizable style of thin lines, unwieldy shapes, and heavy use of black forms, Mignola has amassed a large following of avid readers of his best-selling graphic novels.

In 1982, hoping to find a way to draw monsters for a living, he moved to New York City and began working for Marvel Comics. During the 1990’s, after developing his iconic technique, Mignola moved to Dark Horse Comics, where he created his signature Hellboy series, a collection of comic books and graphic novels that chronicles the fate of a half-demon occult detective who may or may not be the Beast of the Apocalypse.

In this exhibit, the Society will feature highlights from his fan-favorite Hellboy series, as well as other spin-off titles including work from B.P.R.D., Abe Sapien, and Witchfinder. The Society is also pleased to feature samples from his award-winning comic books including the Eisner Award winner The Amazing Screw-On Head (Dark Horse Comics) as well as Baltimore, or,The Steadfast Tin Soldier and the Vampire (Bantam Spectra), co-written by best-selling author Christopher Golden. This special exhibit will include an array of comic pages, covers, and rarely seen original paintings by Mignola.

An opening reception for the exhibit will take place on Tuesday, March 6th, beginning at 6:30PM.

In addition, Mike Mignola will be a Guest of Honor at this year’s MoCCA Arts Festival. This 2-day multimedia event, Manhattan’s largest independent comics, cartoon and animation festival, draws over 8,000 attendees each year. Held on April 7 and 8, the Fest will include speaking engagements, book signings, and parties. Further scheduling for Mignola’s appearances including a panel talk and book signings will be available in future announcements.

About the Museum of Illustration at the Society of Illustrators
Founded in 1901, the Society of Illustrators and its Museum of Illustration together comprise America’s longest-standing nonprofit organization dedicated to the art of illustration. The mission of SI/MI is to promote the art and appreciation of illustration and its history and evolving nature through exhibitions and educational programs.

For more information, visit societyillustrators.org

As Hitler’s army nears the United Kingdom, it is up to Winston Churchill to decide between negotiating peace or fighting against impossible odds in Darkest Hour, coming to Digital February 6, 2018 and Blu-ray, DVD and On Demand February 27, 2018, from Universal Pictures Home Entertainment.

With outstanding filmmaker pedigree, Darkest Hour is directed by BAFTA Award winner Joe Wright (Atonement, Pride and Prejudice), written by Academy Award nominee Anthony McCarten (The Theory of Everything) and stars Academy Award nominee Gary Oldman (Harry Potter, Tinker Tailor Soldier Spy) in his 2018 Golden Globe Award winning role.  The critically acclaimed Darkest Hour received six Academy Award nominations including Best Picture, Best Actor in a Leading Role, Best Cinematography, Best Costume Design, Best Makeup and Hairstyling and Best Production Design.

Darkest Hour on Blu-ray and DVD comes with a feature commentary from Director Joe Wright and two exclusive behind-the-scenes featurettes that show Oldman’s extraordinary transformation into Churchill and gives an inside look at the making of this incredible film.

Academy Award nominee Gary Oldman gives a “towering performance” (Richard Lawson, Vanity Fair) in acclaimed director Joe Wright’s soaring drama Darkest Hour. As Hitler’s forces storm across the European landscape and close in on the United Kingdom, Winston Churchill (Oldman) is elected the new Prime Minister. With his party questioning his every move, and King George VI (Mendelsohn) skeptical of his new political leader, it is up to Churchill to lead his nation and protect them from the most dangerous threat ever seen. Also starring Academy Award nominee Kristin Scott Thomas (Tomb Raider, The English Patient, Only God Forgives) and Lily James (Baby Driver, Cinderella), Darkest Hour is a powerful, inspirational drama.

BLU-RAY, DVD & DIGITAL BONUS FEATURES:

• Into Darkest Hour – A comprehensive overview of all that went into making this epic wartime drama, including how they maintained authenticity in depicting 1940’s London.
• Gary Oldman: Becoming Churchill – Filmmakers, cast, and crew marvel at Gary Oldman’s layered, transformative performance. Oldman himself weighs in on the greatest challenges of portraying a man as iconic and complicated as Winston Churchill.
• Feature commentary with Director Joe Wright

In our first installment, we introduced blobs and British blob films (three films).

Last installment, we listed blob films from the late 1950s into the mid 1960s (nine films).

This installment, we’ll finish things up by listing blob films through the 1980s (five films).

THE GREEN SLIME

(USA/Japan, color, 1968).

Superficially similar to Mutiny in Outer Space because it’s set on a space station, The Green Slime is actually the standout B-movie among blob movies.

Several British blob movies are more intellectual and realistic.  Go see them for that.  But see The Green Slime for action-packed adolescent pulp adventure.

As in Island of Terror, we get a whole group of blob monsters, not just one.  And as in Angry Red Planet, the monsters have eyes.  Our astronaut heroes fight the blobs with beam weapons, fire, and plain old heroic grit.

The blobs fight back with tentacles and sheer numbers.

It feels closest to Angry Red Planet but has better characters and direction.  It also suggests a viable spacefaring future society in the background, though the main point is the near-constant action.

GOKE: BODY SNATCHER FROM HELL

(Japan, color, 1968)

Here is a rare exception to the rule that blobs must be mindless.  The alien blob “Goke” is cold and calculating, and it can even speak after it possesses a human victim.

The standout effect sees the blob splitting open a victim’s forehead and oozing way into the guy’s brain!  (It was achieved by squeezing gunk through a photograph and model head and then running the film backwards.)

It might be disappointing that the actual blob(s) make comparatively few appearances once they possess victims’ bodies.  But the nutty, fast-paced script -with feuding plane crash survivors – is one of a kind.

It’s often scary too.

BEWARE! THE BLOB

(USA, color, 1972).

Now, in the 70s, the time had come for comedy.  So this belated sequel to the original 1958 Blob is campy on purpose.

The “plot” is mostly a series of episodes where the blob attacks and eats silly stupid people in a small American town.  But it doesn’t pretend otherwise and is much better than its lowly reputation.

A bigger budget might have helped it feel less like a TV episode and more like a feature film, but it was directed by Larry Hagman (Major Nelson from I Dream of Jeannie and J.R. from Dallas), so I think we can forgive it.

The blob itself is basically a new version of the original blob, and it’s reasonably well realized on screen even if it should have appeared more often.

The standout scene sees the hero trying to warn patrons away from a bowling alley before the blob rolls in, but nobody believes him.

THE STUFF

(USA, color, 1985)

Here’s another comic blob movie, courtesy of rogue satirist filmmaker Larry Cohen.  It’s speedily paced, so watch it closely.

Cohen satirizes American consumer culture by having an innocent-looking dairy dessert turn out to be… an evil blob that possesses your mind.

Apparently the blobs are alien in origin, though it’s a little uncertain.  What’s certain is that they’re intelligent and evil, akin to the classic Body Snatchers. but violent rather than bland.

Effects are cheap for the time, but at their best they are very fun.  You never know where The Stuff might be hiding – even inside a hotel bed.

The most-used effect is tilting a set or model sideways (before filming) so that the blob appears to be moving up a wall when poured from the top.  Some superimpositions, late in the film, are less effective, but half a dozen campy gore effects – mostly ripped or crushed bodies – are great, if brief.

I liked how the blob was white rather than the usual green or red.  And unlike other blobs, it absorbs you mentally rather than physically.

Remember, “Enough is never enough… of The Stuff.”

THE BLOB

(USA, color, 1988).

Many 50s sci-fi classics were remade in the 80s – and nearly all the remakes were great.  The 80s Blob was no exception.

At first it seems to follow the same story as the original (when an old guy gets gunk on his arm), but it quickly distinguishes itself by updating the monster for the 80s:

1. The blob is a botched government experiment, not an extraterrestrial invader
2. The blob is quick rather than slow
3. The blob is aggressive rather than random

It also follows British and Japanese blob movies for being gory – in fact it outdoes them all to become as much a gore film as a blob film.  A hapless cook even gets pulled down a drainpipe!

Actually, the movie probably overdoes the gore and the body count, but you can’t fault it for skimping.  It also has camp to make the gore more palatable.

You root strongly for the main characters: the hero with the mullet haircut played by Kevin Dillon (Matt’s brother) and the cheerleader heroine played by Shawnee Smith (Amanda from the Saw series).

In fact, something remarkable: though it’s the most belated movie on our list, and though it’s a remake of a classic, the 1988 Blob is arguably the greatest blob movie ever made.

Our friends at ThinkGeek are obsessed with creating and sharing unique and authentic product experiences that stimulate fans’ imaginations and fuel their geek core. They carefully cultivate their product choices, searching for beloved properties.

Like Jim Henson’s fantastical story of The Dark Crystal.

Many years ago, the mysterious Dark Crystal was damaged and an age of chaos began, led by the evil race of grotesque birdlike lizards, the Skeksis, who rule with an iron claw. Meanwhile the Gelfling orphan Jen, raised in solitude by a race of peace-loving creatures called the Mystics, embarks on a quest with fellow Gelfling orphan Kira, to find the missing shard of the Dark Crystal and restore balance to the universe.

Will Jen and Kira manage to find the Shard and heal the Dark Crystal? Find out in this fun family board game for 2 to 4 players based on the classic The Dark Crystal movie by Jim Henson.

Contents:

• 4 highly collectable figurine renditions of the main characters: 2 Gelflings – Jen and Kira (with Fizzgig!), 2 Skeksis – skekSil the Chamberlain and skekUng the Garthim-Master
• Rules booklet – 24 pages
• 2′ × 2′ game board – lavishly illustrated with inspiring new artwork featuring all the legendary places from the movie, including Aughra’s Observatory, the Valley of the Stones and the Crystal Castle
• 25 World cards, 9 Mystic cards, 7 Skeksis cards and 15 Minion cards
• Over 20 game tokens
• 6 polyhedral dice (D4, D6, D8, D10, D12, D20).
• 4 character sheets and 4 Special Ability cards
• Cardboard stand-ups and bases: 4 Garthim, 1 Slave Podlings, 1 Gourmand Skeksis and 1 Slave-Master Skeksis
• Orrery turn track (top and bottom, with plastic connector)

The Dark Crystal Board Game goes on sale tomorrow
at 9:00 AM at ThinkGeek.com and retails $49.99

Uncle Scrooge: Timeless Tales #3
(Collects Uncle Scrooge #13-#18)
Written and Illustrated by Francesco Artibani,
Alessandro Perina, William Van Horn,
Daan Jippes, Romano Scarpa
Published by IDW Publishing
ISBN-13: 978-1631409356
Released 9/19/17 / $29.99

The back cover’s pluggy paragraph does its job rather well here, promising pretty much everything it can to lure in a Duck family fan this side of promising you your own Number One Dime.

The name dropping is fairly warranted with the likes of Magicka DeSpell, Flinthart Glomgold, the Beagle boys, Romano Scarpa and William van Horn. (The only names missing are Carl Barks and Don Rosa, but then the book might just implode in on itself.)

It also proves a bit of warmup for the new DuckTales animated TV series, featuring the ball-like Terries and Fermies in the first big story, prepping readers for the fifth episode. But I digress.

Although it collects IDW’s Uncle Scrooge issues #13 through #18, it really collects stories from all over the globe and time, back to the 1960s. But calling this a collection of Timeless Tales is a bit of a misnomer. Sure, most Scrooge stories usually have a bit of agelessness to them but the early half of the book is really setup for a more modern rogue-splosion and a video game-centric story later in the book that uses a rather modern convention to try to conjure memories of Scrooge’s older adventures.

The book begins with “Scrooge’s Last Adventure,” a four-part story from the Italian mag Tropolino featuring the Beagle Boys, Flintheart, Magika and McDuck-a-like and bazillonaire wannabe, Mr. Rockerduck, teaming up to try to defeat Scrooge. It’s the Duckburg version of the Legion of Doom (Legion of Ducks?) where they do the unexpected for the duckverse by crossing their purposes. As usual, you can never really trust a thief but, in tried-and-true form, Scrooge manages to talk his way out of a seemingly impossible situation. As if four villains across four parts weren’t enough, we also get the additional treats of Scrooge actually teaming up with one and a guest appearance by Duck Avenger.

It’s certainly a more modern story (2013, to be precise) with the more fluid European art style but, even so, long-time Duck fans will enjoy the twists. Maybe the most throwback moment is when Scrooge haunts his own mansion, a big nod to Disney’s retelling of the classic Christmas Carol.

Dipping back into the ’70s, a couple short stories feature Uncle Rumpus McFowl, a lesser known of the Duck family members who looks as if he’s always wearing a fake beard. They have that older house style with scratchier textures, less crowded panels and more dialog. A couple others feature Belle Duck, an old friend of Scrooge’s who rather enjoys innocently spending his money. As if she’s be rubbed by his lucky dime, she always seems to turn any accidental moment into new fortunes for the ol’ duck.

A few others are a bit more recent and come from the Netherlands and Poland, although they have that familiar look and feel. One of those is a surprise, multi-part story that really mixes the old and new.

In “Scrooge vs. Scrooge,” our rich duck plays as his own avatar in a video game he, along with Gyro, created about his life. Published in 2009, just before Epic Mickey was released, it goes a bit more futuristic than that inky game. In this incarnation there is an “encephalo interface dongle” – think virtual glasses – so they can play using brain waves. And, as you can imagine, it proved yet another way for Scrooge to get joy from earning money.

That is followed by a bit of a weird one, titled “Gyro’s Manager,” were a smooth talking sales guy invaded Gyro’s life, twisting his inventions into diabolical purposes. The story has that older look and feel to it, feeling right at home with the timeless portion of the book’s title.

The final long story is “The Miner’s Daughter” which introduces Dickie Duck, a cheerful, yellow-haired girl who enjoying jumping into any situation. The story is a bit out of place in that if feels a bit disjointed with no real focus or adventure. Instead, we see Scrooge traveling as cargo and the three nephews breaking into song in a baby carriage. It’s one of the weirdest, longest character introductions I can recall.

A bit of a throwback to Disney’s comics are the stories about the writers and artists that’d occasionally be incorporated. Early in the book, before the stories, is a write-up titled “Honor Among Thieves: The McDuck Rogues Gallery Team Ups.” It’s actually an interview with comics writer Francesco Artibani, focusing on the multi-villain team up story. Likewise, the book ends with a brief bio of artist William Van Horn followed by a couple of his short pagers from the late ’80s. He always had a slightly more bubbly style than, say Barks or, yet managing to straddle the old and newer visual styles without abusing either one. It’s a proper way to close out the book, reigning things back in to the “Timeless” title.

I always enjoy seeing Disney stories from other countries but mixing in the more modern, brightly colored, rubbery European stories with the more house style American adventures doesn’t really say timeless to me.

But, then again, I’m taking the book’s name a bit too literal. Scrooge will simply never really age, despite his crotchety ol’ self. Whether you put him in a video game, send him to the planet’s core or launch him into space, he’ll manage to remain firmly grounded in his big adventure, hard-working, penny-pinching past.

Originated by illustrator Jason Ford, publisher Laurence King’s SUPERHERO series includes a fun and varied range of formats. Handbooks, play sets, sticker books, card games, and comic strips all feature the same empowering art that gives life to superheroes, dastardly villains, and their exploits.

And what better way to embrace your superhero within than with a prize package exclusively for FOG! readers?

Included within:

The Superhero Comic Kit

Draw, color, and sticker your very own superhero comic books! Make your superheroes – or even yourself – the stars of each super adventure! The book contains 12 exciting 8-page comics to draw, color, and complete. Each adventure has super story prompts to start you off – and the rest is up to you! You can even pull them out, put them together, and give them to your friends to read. Also includes sections on how to create and draw your superheroes and supervillains, and over 100 fantastic superhero stickers to add to your stories.

The Super Book for Superheroes

A compendium of ideas, drawing, coloring, and activities that allows you to create your own crusaders for justice who do battle with super villains, unraveling their crazed schemes for taking over the world. You will learn to draw villains such as the Mad Scientist, Bog Creature, and Evil Robot, while also creating superheroes, their sidekicks, secret hideouts, outfits, and super gadgets.

And there are superpowers to discover – such as invisibility, super strength, speed, flight, heat vision, teleportation, and X-ray vision. This book is a must for anyone wanting to create their own superhero universe!

The Superhero Handbook

Ever wanted to be a superhero, but just didn’t know how to go about it? The Superhero Handbook features 20 exciting activities to help you develop your superhero powers. Choose your superhero name, discover your superpower, make your own superhero costume and gadgets, and much more!

The Superhero Adventure Playset

Save the day every day with the Superhero Playset! In a cunning carousel format, this compact book opens up to reveal three super scenes – the awesome cityscape, the fearsome Fire Ice Caves, and the evil villain’s Laboratory of Doom – and 12 superheroes, sidekicks, supercars and evil masterminds to populate them. Fantastically illustrated by artistic superhero Jason Ford, this playset contains everything you need to create and play out your own superhero stories.

Superhero Snap! Card Game

BAM! POW! SNAP! This simple and fun card game based on Jason Ford’s brilliant superheroes and dastardly villains is a must for all superhero fans.

With the cards divided equally and held face down, players turn over their top cards into a pile in the middle. When players turn over matching superheroes or villains, the first player to shout ‘SNAP!’ wins all the cards in the middle. The winner is the first player to collect all the cards. Suitable for two or more players.

Contains 52 cards, featuring 13 different superheroes and villains in matching sets of 4.

And we’re giving away three sets to FOG! readers!

To enter, send an email with the subject header “SUPER PRIZE” to geekcontest @ gmail dot com and answer the following question:

In two sentences or less, if you could have any superpower what would it be and why?

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 February 18th, 2018.

The National Academy of Television Arts and Sciences (NATAS) has proudly announced that Sid and Marty Krofft, two legendary television producers will be honored with Lifetime Achievement Awards this year during the Daytime Emmy Awards.  The Krofft Brothers will be celebrated at the 45th Daytime Creative Arts Emmy Awards which will take place on Friday, April 27th, 2018 at the Pasadena Civic Auditorium in Southern California.

“Sid and Marty Krofft, our Daytime Creative Arts honorees, are masters of children’s television programming and have been part of my family viewing since the creation of H.R. Pufnstuf, Sigmund & the Sea Monsters and Land Of The Lost,” said David Michaels, SVP, Daytime Emmy Awards, NATAS. “Their terrific variety programs such as The Donny and Marie Series on ABC and Barbara Mandrell & the Mandrell Sisters have only solidified the breadth of their talent across the television spectrum.”

Many of the most colorful and fondly remembered children’s series of the 1970s and 1980s sprang from the imaginations of Sid and Marty Krofft. Their groundbreaking, live-action fantasy shows were mainstays of the Saturday morning airwaves, which had previously been the exclusive domain of cartoons. To this day, DVD box sets of beloved Krofft creations H.R. Pufnstuf, Lidsville, and Land of the Lost are brisk sellers, a testament to the artistry and charm of the Krofft brothers and the magical spell they cast on generations of TV viewers.

The Kroffts made their television debut in 1969 with NBC’s H.R. Pufnstuf, which centered on the magical adventures of boy named Jimmy, a talking flute and a six-foot dragon. The series, which introduced the brothers’ innovative mix of live-action and puppetry, was made into a Universal Pictures feature in 1970. The show continues to be broadcast around the world. Pufnstuf was quickly followed by on NBC (1970) and Lidsville on ABC (1971). Sigmund & the Sea Monsters and Land Of The Lost premiered on NBC in 1973 and in 1974, respectively. Later kids shows included Far Out Space Nuts, Lost Saucer and The Krofft Supershow, which included installments of Wonderbug, Big Foot & Wildboy, Electra Woman & Dyna Girl, Dr. Shrinker and Captain Kool and the Kongs.

In the 1970s and 1980s, the Kroffts also found success as producers of popular primetime variety series such as the top-rated The Donny and Marie Series on ABC and Barbara Mandrell & the Mandrell Sisters, which reached as high as #10 on the charts, along with the beloved The Brady Bunch Variety Hours.

In 1984, the Kroffts made the bold move of giving comedian Richard Pryor his own award-winning Saturday morning children’s series on CBS, Pryor’s Place. Besides capitalizing on Pryor’s irreverent humor, the show explored important social issues such as child abuse, divorce and the importance of reading. The Kroffts got political in 1987 with D.C. Follies, a satirical TV series lampooning current events with amazing, larger-than-life puppets of celebrities, politicians and newsmakers. In 2009, Sid and Marty were presented with the Pop Culture Award at the TV Land Awards.

As Sid & Marty are approach their “Golden Anniversary”, they are still going strong as they have created three series and five pilots in the past three years. The three series include the 2-time Emmy nominated Nickelodeon television series Mutt & Stuff, a remake of Electra Woman & Dyna Girl, which aired on Fullscreen from Legendary, and a remake of Sigmund and the Sea Monsters, which is currently airing on Amazon with David Arquette starring as Captain Barnabas. Included among the pilots are a remake of their beloved The Bugaloos and an original science series starring The Big Bang Theory’s Mayim Bialik called Mayim’s WonderLab.

The Daytime Creative Arts Emmy Awards and The Daytime Emmy Awards recognize outstanding achievement in all fields of daytime television and are presented to individuals and programs broadcast from 2:00 a.m.-6:00 p.m. during the 2017 calendar year.

The 45th Annual Daytime Creative Arts Emmy Awards and The Daytime Emmy Awards is a presentation of the National Academy of Television Arts & Sciences.  Yangaroo, Inc. is the official provider of the Digital Media Distribution System Awards Management Solution (“DMDS”) for the submission, judging and voting of all programs in the 45th Annual Daytime Emmy Awards.

United Airlines is the official airline of the Daytime Emmy Awards and The National Academy of Television Arts & Sciences.

Taking Over the Reins on Superman with New MAN OF STEEL Weekly Miniseries in May, New SUPERMAN #1 and ACTION COMICS #1001 Ongoing Series in July

Re-Release of Jinxworld Titles, with Continuing Series and New Titles to Come

Curating “Custom” Imprint Combining a Mix of Characters from the DC Universe with All-New Characters

Last November, best-selling writer Brian Michael Bendis set tongues to wagging in the comic book world when he announced that he would be joining DC Entertainment as part of a “multifaceted” deal. Now, both DC and Bendis have revealed the first details on what he has in store for fans.

SUPERMAN

Bendis’ first DC story will be with fan-favorite artist Jim Lee in ACTION COMICS #1000 (on sale April 18), but this is only the beginning when it comes to his relationship with Krypton’s Last Son. On May 30, Bendis debuts MAN OF STEEL, a six-issue weekly miniseries. Featuring six interconnected covers by Ivan Reis and Joe Prado, this series will shake up the classic story of Krypton’s final days and Kal-El’s path to becoming an iconic hero, introducing a new villain that knows a terrifying secret behind the destruction of Superman’s homeworld. Bendis’ story will feature an incredible lineup of artistic firepower, including Ivan Reis, Evan “Doc” Shaner, Ryan Sook, Kevin Maguire, Adam Hughes and Jason Fabok. A prelude to MAN OF STEEL by Bendis and artist Jose Luis Garcia-Lopez will be available on May 2, in the DC NATION #0 preview sampler.

This July, more fireworks are in store for fans with not one, but two Superman-themed titles, both written by Bendis. July 11 debuts SUPERMAN #1, with art by Ivan Reis. The conclusion of MAN OF STEEL will leave both fans and Superman reeling, and the debut story arc will dive deeper into its consequences, building on popularity already generated by co-writer Peter J. Tomasi and co-writer/artist Pat Gleason. On July 25, ACTION COMICS resumes with issue #1001; with art by Gleason, Bendis will deliver stories that are more character-focused, introduce new characters (both heroes and villains) and spotlight more of Clark Kent and his role at the Daily Planet. ACTION will also take a closer look at how the actions of Superman impact the DC Universe.

THE RETURN OF JINXWORLD

Bendis’ world of gritty noir crime titles, including JINX, TORSO, POWERS, A.K.A. GOLDFISH and SCARLET among others, has found a new home at DC. The library of JINXWORLD titles like BRILLIANT, FIRE, FORTUNE & GLORY and TOTAL SELLOUT will be available digitally by this Spring. Fans can expect to see new stories from continuing series like POWERS, SCARLET and THE UNITED STATES OF MURDER INC., as well as new characters added to the Jinxworld universe throughout 2018 and beyond.

A CURATED “CUSTOM” IMPRINT

Also scheduled for 2018 is a Bendis-curated custom imprint of titles. This new custom imprint will feature some of Bendis’ all-time favorite characters in very unique and unusual situations, combined with new characters created specifically for this new imprint.

DC GIVES FANS A SNEAK PEEK AT SOME OF
THE HOTTEST EVENTS OF 2018 IN DC NATION #0

Twenty-Five Cent Sampler Comic Book Features Stories from DC’s Hottest Writers Available May 2
Book Includes Preview of Free DC NATION Fan Magazine, Debuting June 6

Boasting three of the most popular writers in comics, DC is getting a jump on Free Comic Book Day (May 5) to let fans in on all the excitement in store for the World’s Greatest Super Heroes. On Wednesday, May 2, DC NATION #0, a 32-page comic book, will be available at comic book retailers at a cover price of $0.25 and free via digital download. DC NATION #0 spotlights events from three of DC’s top storytellers – Scott Snyder, Tom King and Brian Michael Bendis, all best-selling, celebrated authors.

With the unbelievable conclusion to Scott Snyder and Greg Capullo’s DARK NIGHTS: METAL paving the way for the JUSTICE LEAGUE: NO JUSTICE four-issue weekly series (with co-writers James Tynion IV, Joshua Williamson and artist Francis Manapul), fans will be clamoring for more information on what kind of wild, over the top roller-coaster ride Snyder and crew have planned next; artist Jorge Jiménez (SUPER SONS) joins Snyder, Tynion IV and Williamson for a preview of just how big the Justice League’s next challenge will be when JUSTICE LEAGUE: NO JUSTICE begins May 9.

In a Batman story by Tom King and artist Clay Mann, The Joker gets word about the wedding between the Bat and the Cat, and he’s not happy. With the wedding story arc reaching its climax in BATMAN #50 on sale July 4, The Joker will be that one wedding guest most likely to speak now and not hold his peace at all.

From the return of the trademark red trunks to the debut of superstar writer Brian Michael Bendis in the ACTION COMICS #1000 comic book in April, the future for Superman couldn’t shine any brighter, but for fans, that’s just the tip of the super-iceberg. Bendis, along with legendary artist José Luis García-López, is also contributing an all-new story to DC NATION #0, a prelude to his highly anticipated MAN OF STEEL weekly miniseries debuting May 30.

Fans will also get a sneak preview of DC’s new promotional magazine DC NATION. The debut issue of this free, full-sized fan magazine will be the perfect place for fans to get the latest news on what’s happening at DC, arriving at comic book retailers on June 6 and available for digital download.

For the latest news regarding Brian Michael Bendis and the World’s Greatest Super Heroes, check out the website at www.dccomics.com or the DC YouTube channel

Image via Alex Zamm

You might not know writer/director Alex Zamm by name, but you’ve certainly seen his work. 

Starting with the Carrot Top vehicle, Chairman of The Board, Zamm hasn’t stopped working, making films for television or the direct to video market, collaborating with some of Hollywood’s most recognizable character actors including Dabney Coleman, Vincent Schiavelli, Lacey Chabert, Fred Willard, George Wendt, French Stewart, Tom Cavanagh, Judge Reinhold, Morgan Fairchild, Rance Howard, Phil Lewis, Doris Roberts, Greg Germann, Jane Seymour and Larry The Cable Guy.

His latest film, Woody Woodpecker, brings the iconic animated character to life.  Alex took some time to discuss the film, his role as a storyteller and potential upcoming projects.

* * * * *

FOG!: This film originally premiered in Brazilian market where Woody Woodpecker is still a huge character. How did you get involved with the project?

Alex Zamm: I loved watching Woody Woodpecker cartoons growing up. With his manic impish nature, he was always my favorite troublemaker. I have a background in cartooning and have been heavily involved with special effects films for quite a few years. I also really enjoy making films with animals – they show us our humanity. I was looking for a new project that put all of these interests together.

Then one day, while watching a Woody Woodpecker cartoon I suddenly had the idea to star Woody in his first feature as a hybrid film, with Woody as a photo-realish, CGI character in a live action world.

To me he has always been one of the crown jewels of animation and I couldn’t understand why he didn’t have his own franchise – he’s lovable, irreverent, funny, timeless…and the technology had finally caught up to be able to pull this off.

My writing partner, William Robertson and I wrote up a very detailed treatment and I put together a visual tone book. We pitched the project to Universal’s Home Entertainment Division, 1440 Productions for whom I had just directed, a reboot of The Little Rascals. They loved the Woody pitch and committed to the project. It’s been the greatest honor to have the opportunity to adapt Walter Lantz’s wonderful creation to the screen. Throughout the entire making of the film, my team and I were committed to remaining true to the spirit of Woody’s character so that a whole new generation could fall in love with this terrific troublemaker too.

Were you a fan of Woody growing up? As one of the writers, were you tempted to bring in other Walter Lantz characters into the story?

I’m a huge fan of all of Walter Lantz’s body of work and all the character’s he helped create. It was very temping to put Winnie Woodpecker, Splinter and Knotthead into the film too, however building additional photo-real cgi cartoon characters was cost prohibitive. We ultimately decided it was better to save them for a sequel. The same goes for Chilly Willy, Andy Panda and Buzz Buzzard.

You’ve directed over 20 projects including one of my favorite Disney Channel movies, My Date with the President’s Daughter, as well as a number of direct to video sequels such as Inspector Gadget 2, Dr. Dolittle: Million Dollar Mutts, Beverly Hills Chihuahua 2, Tooth Fairy 2, The Little Rascals Save the Day and Jingle All the Way 2. What challenges as a storyteller do you have when creating a sequel for an established fanbase with a smaller budget, while maintaining your own vision?

When I come onboard to direct a sequel to an existing film or adapt a cartoon property, the key for me is digging deep to understand what is at the core of what made that first film or character successful and what the audience connected with. What’s the underlying myth, wish fulfillment, fear, or basic need that informs the DNA of the material?

Once I identify it, the effort of the entire filmmaking team is to support that DNA throughout the film.

Image via Alex Zamm

And while we may have smaller budgets to work with on these sequels and may not be able to afford the same level of spectacle as the first films, these sequels always hold their own when it comes to character, comedy and theme. I believe this helps give the films the illusion of greater scale than they actually have. Whether it’s an original film, a sequel or a reboot, there’s always a personal point of view and core idea that I’m able to infuse into the work.

This past holiday season, Netflix trolled it’s own viewers who watched your 2017 film, A Christmas Prince. How do you maintain a sense of humor in the film industry?

I was thrilled with all the press surrounding A Christmas Prince and it was one of Netflix’s most successful original films ever worldwide.

That said, I tend to not read reviews, positive or negative. Instead, I just like to focus on the work and on telling stories that entertain people. Keeping a sense of humor is key to survival in both the film industry and any line of work. Equally important is keeping things in perspective — In the entertainment industry we entertain; we’re not curing diseases…but then again, laughter can be a great form of preventative medicine.

You’ve directed test shorts for Hong Kong Phooey and Marvin The Martian. Are these still in development? Is there a sequel to Woody Woodpecker in the works?

Hong Kong Phooey, the crime-fighting dog is one of my other all-time favorite cartoon characters.

That project has Eddie Murphy attached and is still in development. Marvin is sadly not in development at this time. But I hope that one comes back around – Marvin is a great character who should have his own feature film. I’d love to do a sequel to Woody and we already have a really fun idea for it.

Do you have a dream project and or collaborator?

Yes, I have a dream project, but I can’t talk about it yet. Stay tuned…it’s a fun one. And there are just so many incredible collaborators I’d love to work with it’s impossible to name just one.

What are you currently geeking out over?

For movies, I loved The Darkest Hour and The Florida Project. Both amazing films that couldn’t be more different than one another.  On television, I’m enjoying Rick and Morty and American Dad; both are always hysterically funny and always clever and surprising.  For music, Chris Joss, D.J. Shadow, Air, Zero-7 – Chill music that inspires me while I write.  For comics, The Complete Calvin & Hobbes – Bill Watterson’s work always reminds you how magical childhood is and should be.  One of the best books ever about comedy is Sick In The Head by Judd Apatow.  Video games, I enjoy Soda Crush, Words With Friends….and a little GTA.  Finally, for theater, the moving, inspiring, beyond awesome Hamilton.

Woody Woodpecker will be available on DVD and Digital on 2/6!