Roger Ebert’s Best Movie Reviews

Legendary artist Carmine Infantino died this week. He co-created Batgirl, and revitalised the superhero genre, which was dormant at the time, with his fresh take on The Flash in 1956. There’s a great rundown of the man and his influence on not only DC Comics, but the comic book biz as a whole right here.

Sadly, in the mainstream press Infantino didn’t get the press he deserves, which is usually the way. Jack Kirby received very little attention outside of the comics industry when he died in 1994.

Anyway, one man who did get a lot of ink about his passing was famed film critic Roger Ebert. I don’t think his TV show with Gene Siskel was ever showed here in Australia, but I’m certainly aware of the man, and amongst the many looks back at his life is this amusing rundown of his 40 most scathing reviews from films over the last few decades. My faves are below, and you can see the whole list here.

8. Battlefield Earth (2000):

“Battlefield Earth is like taking a bus trip with someone who has needed a bath for a long time. It’s not merely bad; it’s unpleasant in a hostile way.”

12. Catwoman (2004):

“The director, whose name is Pitof, was probably issued with two names at birth and would be wise to use the other one on his next project.”

36. Spice World (1997):

“The Spice Girls are easier to tell apart than the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles, but that is small consolation: What can you say about five women whose principal distinguishing characteristic is that they have different names?”

April 6, 2013
Categories: Comics, DC Comics, Movies, News . Tags: Carmine Infantino, Roger Ebert . Author: Kris Bather . Comments: Leave a comment

Spider-Man: Now Even More Superior

Now that Peter Parker is dead (kind of), and his enemy Doc Ock is in his body, Spider-Man has become Superior. In July two more villain-centric mini-series are coming our way with the Superior moniker.

Take A Walk On The Dark Side With THE SUPERIOR FOES OF SPIDER-MAN!

This July, critically acclaimed writer Nick Spencer and Eisner Award winning artist Steve Lieber put fans in the shoes of the all-new Sinister Six with TheSuperior Foes of Spider-Man #1! This all new ongoing, launching during Superior Spider-Month, gives fans a whole new look into the world of Superior Spider-Man, great for lapsed and new readers alike!

With superior power comes superior responsibility…and superior villains! Boomerang, Shocker, Speed Demon, the Beetle, and Overdrive take a cue from the Superior Spider-Man and get upgraded for a new era of evil – and the score of a lifetime! It’s a tale of suspense that’ll turn the Marvel Universe upside down – as only THE SUPERIOR FOES OF SPIDER-MAN can!

“The beauty of the Spider-Man world has always been that for all the web-slinging action and adventure, Peter Parker lives in the world outside your window and his villains reflect that,” explains Tom Brennan, editor, Marvel Entertainment. “The new world of Superior Spider-Man demands a look at the lives, lies, schemes and dreams of his villains. Spider-Man’s evolved – will his villains as well?”

Following the embarrassing beating from Superior Spider-Man #1, can Boomerang and crew rebound to prove once and for all they can make it in the big leagues?

“This is a book about the working class guys; these are not the Kingpins or Green Goblins or Doc Ocks of the world,” explains Spencer in an interview with Marvel.com. “These are the small-time crooks looking for a quick score so they can pay their alimony and get the loan shark off their back. A lot of the book is from Boomerang’s perspective, and he’s very much aware of that—and he sees this new Sinister Six he’s formed as one last big shot at real money and real power. He’s got a lot riding on this.”

This July, Spencer and Lieber tangle with the Spider-Verse’s newly-infamous villains in The Superior Foes of Superior Spider-Man #1!

THE SUPERIOR FOES OF SPIDER-MAN #1

Written by NICK SPENCER

Art by STEVE LIEBER

Cover by MARCOS MARTIN

ON SALE JULY 2013!

A New Beast Unleashed – SUPERIOR CARNAGE #1!

Shinick & Segovia Put A Superior Spin On A Deadly Classic

This July, the red-hot creative team of writer Kevin Shinick(Avenging Spider-Man, Robot Chicken) and Stephen Segovia (X-treme X-Men, Thor) unleash a supercharged new beast into the world of Superior Spider-Man with Superior Carnage #1! This five issue limited series, launching during Superior Spider-Month, gives fans a whole new look into the world of Superior Spider-Man – great for new and lapsed readers alike!

The homicidal villain, Carnage, is deteriorating in the confines of his asylum—but his fellow inmates are not giving up just yet! Watch as their Frankenstein-style experiment unfolds for better or for worse. Can they restore the deadliest of the symbiotes to its former glory, or better yet, do they have what it takes to build a more dastardly, more sinister, more superior Carnage?

“This is a Carnage story that will send shivers down the backs of anyone who reads it,” explained Sana Amanat, Editor, Marvel Entertainment. “What Kevin and Stephen have planned for the character is unlike any Carnage story that’s come before it, and surely will be one that will have fans demanding more of when it’s all said and done. Want to know why people love Carnage so much? Jump on here.”

But with a catatonic Kasady, who will emerge? The Beast or the Man?

“I’m really excited to be working on Superior Carnage. It’s very rare that you can say the words “Like you’ve never seen him before!” and truly mean it,” explains Shinick. “But Stephen and I have been working on some great designs for what happens when the Wizard attempts to turn Carnage into an agent of evil the way the Avengers converted Venom for good! Plus now that Cletus Kasady has essentially been lobotomized, readers (and the Wizard) are going to encounter a monster very different from what they were expecting.”

This July, Shinick and Segovia restore life and grotesque brutality to one of Spider-Man’s greatest threats in Superior Carnage #1!

SUPERIOR CARNAGE #1

Written by KEVIN SHINICK

Art by STEPHEN SEGOVIA

Cover by CLAYTON CRAIN

ON SALE JULY 2013!

April 4, 2013
Categories: Comics, News . Tags: Marvel, Spider-Man . Author: Kris Bather . Comments: Leave a comment

The Star Wars At Dark Horse

Dark Horse have been a great publisher for the Star Wars licence over the last 20 years, and their stories have covered both the path and the present of George Lucas’ universe. Now, however they’re going to what could’ve been. No, not the Infinities line of mini-series that saw alternate futures for the original trilogy. This is something quite different, and rather bold. And apparently not an April Fool’s Day joke.

LUCASFILM AND DARK HORSE ANNOUNCE

THE BIGGEST EVENT IN THE HISTORY OF

STAR WARS COMICS!

George Lucas’s original-draft screenplay for The Star Wars to be adapted by J. W. Rinzler and Mike Mayhew!

It’s no April Fools’ prank! Dark Horse is honored to announce a dream project: working with J.W. Rinzler, executive editor at LucasBooks, and artist Mike Mayhew (Avengers) to adapt the rough-draft original screenplay which spawned the biggest franchise in film history!

Three years before his 1977 film, George Lucas put down on paper his first story set in a galaxy far, far away—a tale of fantastic adventures, daring escapes, “lazer swords,” romance, and monsters. A story of Jedi Annikin Starkiller and General Luke Skywalker, an alien named Han Solo, and evil Sith Knights. The screenplay was titled The Star Wars!

“I’m not sure where I first read about The Star Wars—it was years and years ago—but the idea of Luke Skywalker being an older Jedi General, and Han Solo being a six-foot-tall lizard, turned my Star Wars fan brain on its side,” said longtime Star Wars editor Randy Stradley. “I always assumed this would be one of those stories that would be ‘lost to history,’ so getting to work on bringing it to life is kinda like a dream come true.”

“While researching in the Lucasfilm Archives I’ve found many treasures—but one which truly astounded me was George’s rough draft for The Star Wars. His first complete imaginings were hallucinating to read—mind blowing,” said writer J.W. Rinzler. “While working with George on another book project, I once asked if we could adapt his rough draft. He was hesitant. Years later, with Dark Horse’s invaluable help, we showed him a few drawn and colored pages of what it might look like. He gave us the okay.”

Originally conceived in 1974, The Star Wars has been the subject of rumor and legend in the fan community throughout the history of the galaxy far, far away. Now, Lucas has seen fit to grant Dark Horse the right to adapt this fabled story into an eight-issue comic series launching in September!

April 2, 2013
Categories: Comics, New To Comics?, News . Tags: Dark Horse Comics . Author: Kris Bather . Comments: Leave a comment

Necessary Evil DC Comics Documentary

The last time Warner Bros/DC Comics released a documentary was in 2010. Ryan Reynolds narrated Secret Origin: The Story of DC Comics which looked at the 75 year history of the publisher, and it was rather enjoyable, and accessible, with plenty of interviews with comic creators, and some great art. The next focus is an interesting one, as it shines the spotlight on the multitude of bad guys and gals. Most people know the heroes such as Superman, Batman, Wonder Woman, Green Lantern, etc so to look at their enemies is an interesting idea, and comes at a good time, with the cinematic Bane and Catwoman recently seen, and Zod and Faora from June’s Man of Steel film, plus next month’s release of the Injustice: Gods Among Us video game. Official details below.

New Documentary ‘Necessary Evil: Villains of DC Comics’ Announced

Behind every great hero, there are a whole lot of villains.” – Geoff Johns

Legendary Villain Christopher Lee Narrates

The Joker, Bane, Deathstroke, Darkseid and Lex Luthor — the scariest and most menacing villains in DC Comics’ universe — take center stage in a brand new full-length documentary from Warner Bros. Home Entertainment (WBHE) and DC Entertainment (DCE). The joint announcement was made today by WBHE and DCE.

Christopher Lee, who has played the villain more times than almost any other actor, will provide his unique voice as narrator. His roles in more than 200 films include star turns as Dracula, the Mummy and Frankenstein’s monster in Hammer horror classics, Count Dooku in Star Wars, and Saruman in The Lord of the Rings trilogy andThe Hobbit films.

In this new documentary film, the malevolent, sometimes charismatic figures from DC Comics’ hallowed rogues’ gallery will be explored in depth, featuring interviews with the famed creators, storytellers and those who have crafted the personalities and profiles of many of the most notorious villains in comic book history.

Production begins March 30, to coincide with WonderCon at the Anaheim Convention Center March 29-31.

Noted Geoff Johns, best-selling author and DCE’s Chief Creative Officer, “DC Comics is known for many things, but chief among them is the compelling, diverse and legendary society of super-villains who populate its universe. From the monstrous Solomon Grundy to the brutal Black Adam to the charismatic Sinestro, there is no single greater collection of villainy in all of fiction. These villains are hugely popular comic book characters in their own right and, quite honestly, many are often times more popular than some of our iconic super heroes.”

Jeff Baker, WBHE’s Executive Vice President and General Manager, Theatrical Catalog, added “The DC brand is enjoying a huge resurgence thanks to the entire leadership team at DC Entertainment which is driving opportunities not only for new theatrical properties, but for brand extensions as well. This new documentary will reinforce this evolving strategy and leverage DC assets across the entire studio landscape.”

Johns also reiterated that this year’s initiative will be a turning point for DCE. “It’s time we deconstruct these complex and sinister antagonists and celebrate the role they play as the engine and energy of some of the greatest storytelling in comics. 2013 is the Year of the Villain at DC Comics.”

On Saturday, March 30^th, fans attending WonderCon are encouraged to come dressed as their favorite DC Comics’ villain for an opportunity to be featured in the documentary. Fans can join DCE at WonderCon Booth 801 with filming to take place Saturday from 10:30 am – Noon. To find out more about where and what time to meet in the WonderCon DC Entertainment booth, keep checking the DC Comics Facebook (Facebook.com/DCComics) and Twitter sites (@DCComics).

Participation in upcoming ‘cons’ (Comic-Con International: San Diego and New York Comic Con) is anticipated, with a full release scheduled for later in the year.

March 30, 2013
Categories: Comics, DC Comics, Movies, New To Comics?, News . Tags: comics history . Author: Kris Bather . Comments: Leave a comment

Iron Man’s Many Armours and Injustice Videos

Iron Man 3 opens in May and yes, there will be over 40 different suits of armour in the film. Tony’s been a busy boy, as Marvel Studios President Kevin Feige describes.

“We have what we call the prehensile suit, which allows each individual piece of the suit to fly separately and latch on to him. It doesn’t quite work perfectly, but it is a great advancement that Tony uses throughout this movie, so that wherever he is, theoretically, he can call it to him and it can arrive. It doesn’t always work, and there’s a great scene in the movie, which we gave a little taste of to fans at Comic-Con this year in a giveaway of an art poster that Ryan Meinerding had done, where the entire suit doesn’t come to him. He just gets one glove and one boot and has to fight off a battalion of bad guys with just the boot and just the glove. “It’s often the limitations of the suit that can provide the most fun-when the suit breaks, when the suit doesn’t quite work — and there’s that in spades. We also, though, hint early on in the film by mentioning that this is not the Mark 8 as you might think because the Mark 7 was the last suit revealed in “The Avengers.” It’s the Mark 42. So there are well over 40 suits that Tony has built in between the time of “The Avengers” and “Iron Man 3″ because of his obsession. By the end of the film, we see each and every one of them, and you realize Tony is a mechanic and he has been tinkering. Any conceivable idea he had about the suit technology he built and stored in his Hall of Armor. Finally, after talking about it for four movies we finally see his Hall of Armor and the giant army of suits that he’s built for himself.”

You can check out 6 of those awesome suits here, but it looks like the classic Hulkbuster armour from the comics has yet to reveal itself, although the Igor suit somewhat resembles it. Oh, and if you’re in Disneyland you’ll be able to see some of those suits at a new exhibit that runs from April 13 to September.

I’ve never been a hug fan of fighting video games, although I spent many hours in my high school years playing Street Fighter 2. However, any chance to play as DC Comics characters has my interest, and Injustice: Gods Among Us continues to intrigue me, the more I see of it. Take these 3 videos for example. 240 missions? Surprise characters such as Martian Manhunter and Giganta (and possibly Lobo)! Sold! A demo for the much anticipated game will be released on April 2.

March 30, 2013
Categories: Comics, DC Comics, Games, Movies, New To Comics?, News . Tags: Iron Man 3, Marvel . Author: Kris Bather . Comments: Leave a comment

Stalag-X From Gestalt

Australian publisher Gestalt (The Deep: The Vanishing Island) have an exciting story on the way in June. Details below.

Gestalt Comics are pleased to announce a major new science fiction comic series, STALAG-X, a candid tale of human soldiers struggling to survive in an alien concentration camp.

Written by award-winning author Kevin J. Anderson in partnership with TV writer/producer Steven L. Sears, and illustrated by Mike Ratera (X-Men, Bad Legion), Stalag-X reinterprets the ‘prisoner-of-war’ tale with a compelling antihero bent.

In a devastating interstellar war with an alien race, one prisoner — known only as “Joe Human” — is taken to a harsh P.O.W. camp that is controlled by a sadistic alien the captives refer to as “Mengele.” Like his namesake, Mengele performs horrific experiments on humans to better understand their nature — ‘Know your enemy’ is the dictum under which he operates, even if it means examining them slice by slice.

Joe quickly appears to be less than honorable, for he has his own reasons to stay incognito and off Earth. While held prisoner at Stalag-X, he uncovers vital intelligence about the enemy — information that could possibly win the war and save billions of lives… Of course, that would mean getting involved and, perhaps, caring for something. Or someone.

New York Times bestselling author Anderson is the author of more than 115 novels, 52 of which have appeared on US or international bestseller lists, including titles set in the legendary Dune, Star Wars and X-Files universes, along with his own Saga of the Seven Suns series.

Sears is well-known for his work in both film and television — his writing and producing credits include some of the most iconic television series such as Superboy, The A-Team,Swamp Thing and Xena: Warrior Princess among many others.

Stalag-X #1, featuring cover art by fan-favorite Dave Dorman, is scheduled for digital release on the 1st June 2013.

March 24, 2013
Categories: Comics, New To Comics?, News . Tags: Gestalt . Author: Kris Bather . Comments: Leave a comment

The Image Revolution Trailer

Last week, Sequart released a trailer for their upcoming doco about Image Comics, which will be a fascinating insight into one of comics’ best and worst periods. It’s already looking better than their last two docos, on writers Grant Morrison, and Warren Ellis.

The Image Revolution will examine one of the most important and daring moves in modern comic book history. Twenty years ago, a group of artists left Marvel Comics to create their own company, a company that continues to influence mainstream comics and culture to this day. Image Comics began as more than just a publisher — it was a response to years of creator mistreatment, and it changed comics forever.

The Image Revolution will tell the amazing story of this from-scratch company, from its founders’ work at Marvel, through Image’s early days, the ups and downs of the ’90s, and the publisher’s new generation of creator-owned properties like The Walking Dead. We will tell this story through new interviews with the people who made it happen. And what better time than during Image’s 20th anniversary to do it?

March 23, 2013
Categories: Comics, Movies, New To Comics?, News . Tags: comics history, Image Comics . Author: Kris Bather . Comments: Leave a comment

The Deep Cartoon Trailer Premiere

Cool, arty things happen in Melbourne. Cool things also happen in my hometown of Perth, but I hope we get to see this trailer online soon.

AUSTRALIAN GRAPHIC NOVELS BY BESTSELLING MELBOURNE AUTHOR TO BECOME INTERNATIONAL ANIMATED SERIES.
PREVIEW SCREENING AND BOOK LAUNCH THIS SATURDAY.

His recent publications sit atop the bestseller lists on Amazon and iBooks among others, and he has written adventures for Superman, Batman, Wonder Woman, Luke Skywalker and Boba Fett — however, for Melbourne born and bred comic book author,Tom Taylor, nothing excites him more than crafting tales of the Nekton family in his creator-owned graphic novel series, The Deep.

After receiving the 2012 Aurealis Award for ‘Best Graphic Novel’ for the first volume of The Deep series, Here Be Dragons, Taylor and artist James Brouwer return to the seas for the second volume, The Vanishing Island, published by Gestalt Comics.

The Vanishing Island continues the adventures of a multi-ethnic family of daring Aquanauts who live on a submarine — and will receive its official launch on the 23rd March 2013 at Melbourne’s All-Star Comics.

Written by award-winning writer Tom Taylor (DC’s Injustice, Star Wars: Adventures, Star Wars: Blood Ties) and illustrated by the incredible James Brouwer (Justice League Beyond), The Vanishing Island sees the Nektons, a family who have been exploring the seas for generations, investigate an island that was “completely not hit by a tsunami.”

Book Launch Details
The launch of The Vanishing Island will be held at All Star Comics Melbourne, Level 1, 410 Lonsdale St, Melbourne, on Saturday the 23rd March 2013, from 1pm-3pm, and will feature the first public preview of the upcoming TV series based on The Deep graphic novels.

Upcoming Animated TV Series
A new CGI series is in the works based on the The Deep graphic novels, with Paris-based animation studio Technicolor developing and producing 26 half-hour episodes of The Deep targeting viewers 6 years and up.
The Deep: The Vanishing Island and the previous volume in the series, Here Be Dragons, are distributed by Madman Entertainment in Australia & New Zealand, with an RRP of $19.95 aud.

March 21, 2013
Categories: Cartoons, Comics, New To Comics?, News . Tags: Gestalt, James Brouwer, Tom Taylor . Author: Kris Bather . Comments: Leave a comment

Slave Labor Graphics Sale

Indie publisher SLG are moving, and are having a huge sale to celebrate.

SLG Publishing is moving from it’s long time home in downtown San Jose to a new warehouse in the midtown area. We are having a moving sale this week with 30% off everything in stock in the store (sorry, no back orders). No coupon code is required.

Our new place will feature a bigger gallery store than the old one and we will be carrying a lot more comics and graphic novels from other publishers. Come visit us for the grand opening on May 4th at

44 Race Street

San Jose, CA 95126

Go here to see the goodies on offer.

March 21, 2013
Categories: Comics, New To Comics?, News . Tags: Cheap comics, sales . Author: Kris Bather . Comments: Leave a comment

Mad Max On Blu-Ray In June

One of the greatest Australian film successes, and directed by the guy who almost made Justice League, and starring the guy who I always thought would’ve been a great Wolverine, comes news of the complete Mad Max Bluy-Ray release.

As a barely interesting side-note, I should also point out that last year I won a copy of the first film on Blu-Ray when my rather geeky letter was published in Empire magazine, pointing out their many mistakes regarding their article on The Amazing Spider-Man film. Now, on to the high-def details.

THE MAD MAX TRILOGY

BLU-RAY™ COLLECTION DEBUTS JUNE 4

FROM WARNER BROS. HOME ENTERTAINMENT

Mel Gibson Stars in the Franchise that Made Him a Star

Mad Max, the sci-fi franchise that introduced Mel Gibson to the world, will come together for the first time as a Blu-ray collection when Warner Bros. Home Entertainment (WBHE) debuts the Mad Max Trilogy on June 4^th.

The three films – Mad Max (1979), Mad Max Road Warrior (1982) and Mad Max Beyond Thunderdome (1985) – are all set in the near-future in Australia. From the very first film, Oscar® winner George Miller (Happy Feet, 2006) proved a master at creating the gritty, bleak dystopian world and staging the incredible car stunts and crashes in the era when stuntmen, not computers, achieved the effects. All three movies starred Mel Gibson, virtually unknown until after the second film, as Max Rockatansky, a highway cop traveling through the Outback in a society descending into chaos. The films started Gibson on his road to international superstardom, led to his signature Lethal Weapon series, and later two Academy Awards® for his roles as producer and director of Braveheart (1995).

This must-own collection for action fans is available in limited premium tin packaging and makes a perfect gift for Father’s Day. The collection will sell for $49.99 SRP on Blu-ray Disc™. Mad Max Beyond Thunderdome, which is making its Blu-ray debut, will also be available as a single along with Mad Max Road Warrior. Order due date for all is April 30th.

About The Films

Mad Max (1979)

George Miller’s first entry in the trilogy, Mad Max packs brutal action and insane stunts as it follows the inevitable downfall of relentless cop Max Rockatansky (Gibson) in a world gone mad. Living on the edge of an apocalypse, Max is ready to run far away from it all with his family. But when he experiences an unfortunate encounter with a motorcycle gang and its menacing leader, the Toecutter, his retreat from the madness of the world is now a race to save his family’s life.

Mad Max Road Warrior (1982)

The sequel to Mad Max, Mad Max Road Warrior provides action-packed, “automotive” entertainment, telling the story of a selfish-turned-selfless hero and his efforts to protect a small camp of desert survivors and defend an oil refinery under siege from a ferocious marauding horde that plunders the land for gasoline.

Mad Max Beyond Thunderdome (1985)

Mel Gibson returns for his third go-round as the title hero who takes on the barbarians of the post-nuclear future – and this time becomes the savior of a tribe of lost children. Music superstar Tina Turner co-stars as Aunty Entity, a power-mad dominatrix determined to use Max to tighten her stranglehold on Bartertown, where fresh water, clean food and gasoline are worth more than gold.

THE MAD MAX TRILOGY

ON BLU-RAY

Street Date: June 4, 2013

Order Due Date: April 30, 2013

Catalog/UPC #: 1000334058 / 883929266661

Pricing: $49.99 SRP

Mad Max Run Time: 94 minutes; Rated R

The Road Warrior Run Time: 91 minutes; Rated R

Mad Max Beyond Thunderdome Run Time: 107 minutes; Rated PG-13

February 26, 2013
Categories: Movies, News . Tags: Blu-Ray, Mad Max, Warner Bros. . Author: Kris Bather . Comments: Leave a comment

Hellboy Is So Cute!

See? Official details below.

DARK HORSE DELUXE PARTNERS WITH TOY2R TO DISTRIBUTE LIMITED EDITION HELLBOY MINI-QEE VINYL TOYS!

At this year’s International Toy Fair, Dark Horse revealed what is sure to be one of the year’s most-talked-about toy releases! Hong Kong’s innovative designer-toy company Toy2R will produce a new range of 5” vinyl figures in their popular “Mini-Qee” format, putting their unique design spin on Mike Mignola’s popular Hellboy character.

Mike Mignola’s Hellboy has emerged as one of the classic comic book characters of the modern day, spawning a successful series of graphic novels, motion pictures, animation, interactive games, and toy lines. Excitement around this character is at an all-time high, as Mignola takes him back to whence he came in the smash-hit series Hellboy in Hell, currently in its third issue.

Raymond Choy’s Toy2R is recognized as being among the first companies to explore the potential of the designer/art toy movement since their arrival in 1995. Choy managed to turn his passion for collectible toys into an internationally known company, which today continues to push the boundaries of product design, art, and graphics.

“We couldn’t be more excited to be involved in this program,” Dark Horse Product Development head David Scroggy said. “We have worked with Toy2R for many years, and to see their fun take on Hellboy is a thrill. These vinyl figures will be in very tight edition quantities, so we expect a quick sellout of most of the variants.”

Toy2R’s trademark Qee format gives Hellboy a new look, altering his appearance in several ways, all of which were personally approved by Mignola. The results have already gotten comics fans and toy collectors alike talking, after they were revealed on Tomopop last week. All three were on display at the Dark Horse exhibit booth at this year’s Toy Fair at the Jacob Javits Center.

Dark Horse Comics is the exclusive North American distributor of the Hellboy Mini-Qee line and will handle sales to the specialty market in Europe and other territories. Toy2R will be the exclusive sales entity to Asian territories.

Slated for release in July 2013, the figures will be produced in various limited edition sizes, all with a retail price of $19.99.

February 24, 2013
Categories: Comics, News . Tags: Dark Horse, designer toys, Hellboy . Author: Kris Bather . Comments: Leave a comment

Superman: Unbound Disc Details

Below are the official details for DC Comics/ Warner Bros’ next animated feature film. Yes, Superman’s chin may be a tad too pointy, but the film looks set to be pretty spectacular and action packed.

‘WHITE COLLAR’ STAR MATT BOMER DONS THE ICONIC ‘S’
SHIELD OPPOSITE ‘FRINGE’S’ JOHN NOBLE AS BRAINIAC IN AN
ALL-NEW DC UNIVERSE ANIMATED ORIGINAL MOVIE

SUPERMAN: UNBOUND

COMING MAY 7, 2013
FROM WARNER BROS. HOME ENTERTAINMENT

‘Castle’ Duo of Stana Katic & Molly Quinn Voice Lois Lane & Supergirl on
Blu-ray Combo Pack, DVD, On Demand & For Digital Download

A destructive force is devastating
planets across the galaxy – with Earth next in its sights – and even
Superman may not be capable of halting the terror in SUPERMAN:
UNBOUND, the next entry in the ongoing series of DC Universe Animated
Original Movies. Produced by Warner Premiere, DC Entertainment and
Warner Bros. Animation, the all-new, PG-13 rated film arrives May 7,
2013 from Warner Bros. Home Entertainment as a Blu-ray™ Combo Pack
($24.98 SRP) and DVD ($19.98 SRP), On Demand and for Digital Download.
The Blu-ray™ Combo Pack will include UltraViolet™*.

Based on the Geoff Johns/Gary Frank 2008 release “Superman: Brainiac,”
SUPERMAN: UNBOUND finds the Man of Steel aptly handling day-to-day
crime while helping acclimate Supergirl to Earth’s customs and
managing Lois Lane’s expectations for their relationship. Personal
issues take a back seat when the horrific force responsible for the
destruction of Krypton – Brainiac – begins his descent upon Earth.
Brainiac has crossed the universe, collecting cities from interesting
planets – including Supergirl’s home city of Kandor – and now the
all-knowing, ever-improving android has his sights fixed on
Metropolis. Superman must summon all of his physical and intellectual
resources to protect his city, the love of his life and his
newly-arrived cousin.

The film’s stellar voicecast is led by Matt Bomer (White Collar) as
Superman, John Noble (Fringe, The Lord of the Rings films) as
Brainiac, Stana Katic (Castle) as Lois Lane and Molly Quinn (Castle)
as Supergirl. Additional voices in the cast include Golden Globe Award
winner Frances Conroy (Six Feet Under) as Ma Kent, Wade Williams (The
Dark Knight Rises) as Perry White, Diedrich Bader (The Drew Carey
Show, Office Space) as Steve Lombard, Stephen Root (Boardwalk Empire,
Justified) as Zor-El, and Alexander Gould (Weeds) as Jimmy Olsen.

Supervising Producer James Tucker (Justice League, Batman: The Brave
and the Bold) also directs the film from a script by Bob Goodman
(Warehouse 13, Batman: The Dark Knight Returns).

“SUPERMAN: UNBOUND adds an all-new chapter to the growing legacy of
animated films featuring the Man of Steel and his epic challenges to
maintain peace on Earth,” said Mary Ellen Thomas, Warner Home Video
Vice President, Family & Animation and Partner Brands Marketing. “Matt
Bomer’s voice epitomizes the All-American hero that is Superman, and
John Noble counters that tone with a commanding, chilling delivery for
Brainiac. A superhero is only as good as the depths of his opposition,
and Noble brings out the best in his villainous portrayal of
Brainiac.”

SUPERMAN: UNBOUND Blu-ray™ Combo Pack has over 4 1/2 hours of exciting
content, including:
• Standard and high definition versions of the feature film
• UltraViolet™*
• Sneak Peek at Justice League: The Flashpoint Paradox, the next DC
Universe Animated Original Movie
• Featurette – “Kandor: History of the Bottle City” – An all-new
featurette. Kandor: a peaceful scientific community dedicated toward
the preservation of all that is good on Krypton, the home world of
Superman. That is, until the city was ripped from its world and
placed into a small glass bottle! This is the short story
highlighting the shrunken city of Kandor. Its history just as
fascinating as it is unique, here is how it ties in directly with the
Man of Tomorrow.
• Featurette – “Brainiac: Technology and Terror” – An all-new
featurette. Mostly machine, but part sentient being, Brainiac steals
cities and destroys worlds. Is he the most vile of Superman’s
villainous foes? Experience the Brainiac mythology and find out why
Superman barely stands a chance!
• Audio Commentary – Featuring members of the creative team: Mike
Carlin, Bob Goodman and James Tucker.
• Four bonus episodes from Superman: The Animated Series (“The Last
Son of Krypton, Part 1”; “New Kids in Town”; and “Little Girl Lost,
Parts 1 & 2”), all handpicked by producer Alan Burnett.
• Digital Comic – Excerpt from the graphic novel Superman: Brainiac by
Geoff Johns and Gary Frank.

February 23, 2013
Categories: Cartoons, DC Comics, Movies, New To Comics?, News . Tags: Superman . Author: Kris Bather . Comments: Leave a comment

Skullkickers In May

Image Comics’ charming fantasy series, Skullkickers is going through somewhat of a cheeky Marvel inspired revamp in May. Official details below.

ONE ADJECTIVE ISN’T ENOUGH FORSKULLKICKERS IN MAY

All-New #1 is All-New, Secret

This May, Image Comics forces you to wonder why we keep pushing this silly comic book over and over again in a new adjective-laden comic called– THE ALL-NEW SECRET SKULLKICKERS!

“We can’t stop now. It… it has a life of its own. This reboot-itis has permeated our souls,” said Image PR and Marketing Director Jennifer de Guzman. “I hated it at first but now it feels kind of good. Warm… safe… In a darkened world full of uncertainty it’s all we have left.”

THE ALL-NEW SECRET SKULLKICKERS #1, written by promotional broken record Jim Zub and drawn by innocent mp3 Edwin Huang, continues the epic six-arc SKULLKICKERS storyline on a haunted island of mystery, apes and rampant violence. It’s good.

“At this rate I figure we’re still a couple months away from using up any goodwill I might have built up in this industry,” said series creator Jim Zub. “This is the kind of thing that can happen when you let creators write their own press releases.”

If you’re a diehard collector of SKULLKICKERS who’s sad that you won’t have a SKULLKICKERS #22 to add to your collection, fret no longer. In addition to the regular “All-New Secret” cover we’re offering a special “issue #22 variant” B cover to make sure your numbers stay in order. You can tell everyone you started reading “before they became horrible sell-outs.”

We’re sick. We can’t help it. Comic price guide makers will curse this stupid string of title changes for the rest of their natural lives. THE ALL-NEW SECRET SKULLKICKERS #1 will be available in May wherever fine comics are sold. Pre-order it now from the March issue of Previews and stop the hurting.

February 20, 2013
Categories: Comics, New To Comics?, News . Tags: Image Comics . Author: Kris Bather . Comments: Leave a comment

The Deep: The Vanishing Island Review

Here at Broken Frontier you can read my review of the fun, all-ages OGN The Deep: The Vanishing Island. It’s a gorgeous and entertaining book by Tom Taylor (Injustice: Gods Among Us) and James Brouwer (Justice League Beyond) and now it’s in development as an animated series too. The press release for that nifty bit of news is below.

Award-winning ALL-AGES graphic novel ‘The Deep’ to become TV series

NEW ANIMATED SERIES TO BE PRODUCED BY TECHNICOLOR, BASED ON AUSTRALIAN GRAPHIC NOVEL SERIES ABOUT A MULTI-ETHNIC FAMILY OF UNDERWATER EXPLORERS.

Gestalt Comics’ international hit graphic novel The Deep is to be turned into an animated TV series by Technicolor(Euronext Paris: TCH).

The Deep, created by Australian playwright and best-selling comic book writer Tom Taylor (Injustice: Gods Among Us, Star Wars: Blood Ties) and illustrator James Brouwer (Justice League Beyond), follows the adventures of a family of explorers, the Nektons.

Technicolor Digital Productions aims to develop and produce 26 half-hour television episodes, which follows the Nekton’s incredible adventures.

Targeting children aged 8-12 and their families, each self-contained episode of The Deep will bring the family a step closer to unraveling the mysteries of the deep sea; and every story will be filled with action, adventure, incredible sea monsters, fantastic vehicles, unbelievable bravery, and the odd family squabble, of course!

“The Deep is one of those unique properties that truly appeals to all ages and genders by delivering compelling entertainment in the form of enthralling adventure, heart-pounding danger, laugh out loud humor and incredible discoveries all wrapped in unbreakable familial relationships,” said Steven Wendland, Vice President, Technicolor Digital Productions.

“It’s the family we all dreamed of being a part of when we were kids and are anxious and excited to share with our own children now.”

The Deep graphic novels are currently available to order for the direct comics market worldwide via Diamond Comics using order codes:

FEB131046 THE DEEP GN VOL 01 HERE BE DRAGONS
FEB131047 THE DEEP GN VOL 02 VANISHING ISLAND

Or for Australia/New Zealand via Madman Entertainment (b2b.madman.com.au)

February 7, 2013
Categories: Cartoons, Comics, New To Comics?, News, Reviews . Tags: Gestalt . Author: Kris Bather . Comments: Leave a comment

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