Thursday, July 31, 2014

SDCC 2014: Day 2 Cosplay with Martians, World Eaters, Deadpools & Frozen People

The San Diego Comic-Con coverage rages on as we take a look at the awesome cosplayers in their awesome costumes on Friday...day 2 of the massive convention. As I slide through our photographer's images, it's like a game of bingo as I spot my favorite people OOO There's ABEY DARKSTAR!! One chip for me. I swear next year we are all playing cosplayer scavenger hunt for prizes if it kills me. We had the idea this year but hell, I couldn't even find the extra energy to crank out a decent SDCC Exclusives list! How was I going to run a full blown contest? It would go something like this...person in underoos/super hero underpants - 10 points...20 harley quins - 50 points...Doctor Horrible - 15 points...and so on. We'll do this one day. For now, let's check out the coolest costumes from Day 2...

SDCC 2014: My Little Pony Going Strong

It's another year of San Diego Comic-Con under our belts, but we've still got TONS to show you. We're just going to go straight down the line so we don't miss a thing, so keep watching. Today, we visit with our uber pastel buddies from My Little Ponies and note that the amount of merchandise shown at the largest geekfest on the planet is growing EVERY YEAR! This year's lineup puts the cartoon sensations alongside their Equestria Girls counterparts in themes like "Rainbow Power" and "Rainbow Rocks", adding more characters and accessories. The snap-kit-esque Pop line had an amazing showing with tons of figures and playsets to collect. There were more plush dolls, more vinyl figures, more large figures with action features, more accessories for you to ponify any outfit and PONYMANIA evident on new pieces collectors will die for. There was also a massive display of 3D Printed figures that looked like they jumped right from the TV show, so expect fans to be screaming for releases like this until Hasbro gives in! Let's check out a sampling of the displays...

BBC Launching New Doctor Who with Special Programming & Theatrical Events

It’s a new beginning for the iconic series that explores all of space and time, as award-winning actor Peter Capaldi takes on the role of the mysterious time traveler, the Doctor. BBC AMERICA will launch Peter Capaldi’s first season of Doctor Who with special programming on the channel and theatrical events across the country with Fathom Events. The new season of Doctor Who premieres Saturday, August 23, 8:00pm ET on BBC AMERICA. (Trailer, Photos)

Agents of S.H.I.E.L.D. - The Complete First Season Info & Gag Reel!

The mind-blowing saga that began in Marvel’s The Avengers continues in ABC’s action-packed series, Marvel’s Agents of S.H.I.E.L.D. — The Complete First Season.

In the wake of The Battle of New York, the world has changed forever. An extraordinary landscape of wonders has been revealed! In response, mysteriously resurrected Agent Phil Coulson assembles an elite team of skilled agents and operatives: Melinda May, Grant Ward, Leo Fitz, Jemma Simmons and new recruit/computer hacker Skye. Together, they investigate the new, the strange, and the unknown across the globe, protecting the ordinary from the extraordinary. But every answer unearths even more tantalizing questions that reverberate across the entire Marvel Cinematic Universe: Who is "The Clairvoyant”? What is Hydra’s sinister master plan; what dark secret lies behind Skye’s puzzling origins, and most importantly of all, who can be trusted?

Fantasia 2014: Cybernatural Reviewed

The prophets of science warned us about "Cultural Lag"; where our technological advances rocket ever forward while society develops far slower. Thoughtful gestures of self expression like "the hand written letter", and to a lesser extent, the "phone call" ...and even the smallest bit of effort made in the thought provoking "email" fall by the wayside to a text containing the "winky face". Film and television assure us our obsession with the walking dead is still going strong as we stand horrified before the possibility of necrotic cannibal Armageddon, but I'm here to tell you friends, THAT DAY HAS ALREADY COME!! We walk silently through the streets, head down, jaw slack, staring into a little screen that spits out tiny slivers of people's lives. If someone in front of us is in distress, our first impulse is to point that little screen and record the moment with the full intention of sharing it with the world. Our apathy toward each other grows with each new iPhone release and infinite choruses of Sarah McLachlan's "In The Arms of an Angel" will do nothing to jar us from this system and make our hearts grow 3 sizes that day. This is the world we live in, and the perfect setting for a modern tale of horror where the very technology we are locked inside can reach over and grab us.

Monday, July 28, 2014

SDCC 2014: Diamond Select Toys & Kevin Smith on New View Askew Merchandise

With his library of cult-favorite films and regular geek-centric podcasts released through his company SModCo, director and author Kevin Smith is geek royalty, holding court each year in the legendary Hall H at Comic-Con International in San Diego. At this past weekend's Comic-Con, Diamond Select Toys unveiled a number of new products based on Smith's creations, in two new product categories!

SDCC 2014: Star Wars, Darth Vader & Princess Leia Head to Marvel in 2015

Lucasfilm Ltd. and Marvel Entertainment are extremely proud to announce the iconic Star Wars franchise will return to Marvel in 2015 with a line-up of three comic book titles chronicling the adventures of a galaxy far, far away.  Beginning in January 2015, prepare for STAR WARS by writer Jason Aaron (Thor, Original Sin), artist John Cassaday (Astonishing X-Men) and colorist Laura Martin, DARTH VADER by writer Kieron Gillen and artist Salvador Larroca and PRINCESS LEIA by writer Mark Waid and artist Terry Dodson.

Taking place immediately after the events of Star Wars: A New Hope, the Force returns to Marvel in January with three new series spotlighting beloved characters from the iconic trilogy! Created in close partnership with Lucasfilm, the three new Star Wars series will exist as part of the canon for the Star Wars universe!

SDCC 2014: Dark Horse To Make HALO Replica Ships & Vehicles

It was announced during Dark Horse’s “The Art of Video Games” panel at this year’s Comic Con International that Dark Horse would develop and manufacture a line of replicas based on the ships and vehicles which have appeared in the multi-million selling video game franchise, “Halo®!”

Furthering the arrangement between 343 Industries and Dark Horse, which has to date, produced two blockbuster comics series with canonical storylines written by writers from the video game franchise, this news is sure to excite gamers and collectors alike!

Deadpool Movie Test Footage?



Looks videogamey, but maybe it was a "proof of concept" sort of thing where they whipped this up to show how much fun the actual movie could be? Also, that sure does sound like Ryan Reynolds!  DISCUSS!

UPDATE: This is the real deal! ..well as real as a piece of test footage gets. Now in beautiful HD, we can catch all the little subtle nuances...like Deadpool drawing the picture with a crayon at the start on the bridge, which is what he shows to the motorcycle thug right before he takes his head. Extra awesome for an already amazing piece! We also didn't get that final line in the low res version...which brings it all home. Perfection. A whole movie of this would leave audiences in tears, begging for the pain in their splitting sides to go away. So what is FOX waiting for? Maybe the success of formerly perceived "longshot", ie; Guardians of the Galaxy, this weekend will seal the deal, though it's fairly obvious Deadpool is one of the most popular characters in the Marvel Universe. Shouldn't that spell no-brainer? Maybe they think the tone of the film, which would HAVE to be rated R, mixed with non-stop comedy is the risky proposition? Whatever the case may be, I think the release of this "leaked" footage, and then the mysterious second leak of better footage is their way of saying...we are listening. Word of mouth is strong. Deadpool movie...imminent...

SDCC 2014: Hasbro's Marvel Comics Legends, 3.75 inch & Mashers Action Figures

Our San Diego Comic-Con 2014 coverage marches on with a run down of one of my favorite topics..MARVEL COMICS! Hasbro continues to be the uber licensor for Marvel super posable action figures in a 6 and 3.75 inch scale, with Marvel Universe morphing into Marvel Infinite Series figures and Legends returning in a big way, rebranded as Marvel Legends Infinite Series. Yea..it's a little confusing when you go to talk to someone not so experienced with the line, so collectors are still just calling them Legends and Universe. Ah...for a simpler time. Also added this past year was a wildly popular line called Mashers which ignite the creative instincts of children as they build their favorite heroes and villains and are able to mix and match parts...and delight hardcore collectors as they put Tony Stark's snarky head on The Hulk's body. We are easily amused. Let's check out what was announced at SDCC 2014...

SDCC 2014: Del Toro, Tatum, Perlman And Co. Talk The Book Of Life

The cast and crew of The Book of Life sat down to discuss the upcoming movie at San Diego Comic-Con International this past weekend. On hand were actors: Christina Applegate, Channing Tatum and Ron Perlman alongside producer Guillermo Del Toro and director Jorge Gutierrez to talk about what makes this new animated feature something you can'tmiss. The production team wanted to make something different than the big films of this year and celebrate a rich culture. Director Jorge Gutierrez described the film as, "Really unique and different. Growing up I wanted to see a Mexican story and now I was able to put in all these things I never saw but wanted to, into this film. We really wanted this to look true to its Mexican roots."

Guillermo Del Toro, whose imagery has always remained infused with the richness of his heritage,  elaborated, "In order to be universal, we tried to be very specific to our culture and who we are and what we love. None of us are trying to cash in on a generic animated film about talking animals with quippy one-liners."

Sunday, July 27, 2014

SDCC 2014: Cosplay Day 1

I don't think I need to tell you how cosplay has blown up in a HUGE way since last San Diego Comic-Con! The heightened popularity of this passionate pastime has been a mixed blessing for folks already in the community for years. For a website like Idle Hands, we like to take everyone at face value...and that means TONS of cosplayer pictures. We know you love them..and we love to photograph them, so this year, almost more so than any show before, we've been on the hunt for cosplayers around every corner..big or small, mega advanced or duct tape and cardboard newb. Here's a look at my favorites photographed by Nicole Marrokal, Hailey Mordah and Kristelle Villa...

SDCC 2014: Mad Max: Fury Road Trailer

As San Diego Comic-Con roars into its last day, those of us at the computer keys are scouring our email boxes and beyond to make sure you (and I) are seeing all the best stuff announced over these past chaotic days of geek fury. Today we got a tip from our buds at Collider that the new Mad Max trailer is LIVE and kicking ass across a new fictional wasteland!

SDCC 2014: Opening Title Sequence from "Outlander"

STARZ releases a first look at the opening title song and sequence of its highly anticipated original series “Outlander.” The opening showcases never-before-seen footage from the series, along with an arrangement of the “Skye Boat Song” by Emmy-award winning composer Bear McCreary featuring the vocals of songstress Raya Yarbrough. The network first shared the main sequence upon over 1,500 enthusiastic fans at the Comic-Con world premiere screening of “Outlander” at San Diego’s historic Spreckels Theatre on Friday night. “Outlander” premieres on Saturday, August 9th at 9pm ET/PT on STARZ. Dive in below for the goods...

SDCC 2014: Guardians of the Galaxy Sequel Announced

Yep. It's already happening. After weeks of journos and lucky fans filling up my Twitter feed gushing over the new Guardians of the Galaxy movie using words like "Perfection" and "Amazeballs" and "OMG my eyes are melting out of my skull!!!" ...it appears this advance word of mouth was enough to green light a sequel! Or maybe there was already a sequel planned, as such are the ways of the uber-minds shaping the Marvel Cinematic Universe. We can't hope to understand.

Marvel reports "During Marvel Studios’ Hall H presentation at Comic-Con International 2014 Saturday night, Marvel’s “Guardians of the Galaxy” star Chris Pratt and director James Gunn announced that a sequel to the film will hit theaters July 28, 2017."

SDSCC 2014: Star Trek Meets Planet Of The Apes

Have you ever wondered what it would be like to “mind-meld” with a sentient ape? Or wanted to see a Klingon on horseback, brandishing a rifle? Readers will soon have a chance to peek into just such an alternate future, as IDW Publishing partners with BOOM! Studios for the crossover event of the year: Star Trek/Planet of the Apes.

IDW will publish the crossover, which will mark the first time BOOM! Studios has partnered with another publisher on a series. Together they will bring Star Trek, licensed by CBS Consumer Products, and 20th Century Fox’s Planet of the Apes together in a way that is sure to delight existing fans and make new ones. The series will pair the original U.S.S. Enterprise crew with Taylor, Nova and the cast from the original Planet of the Apes film.

SDCC 2014: Street Fighter World Warrior Announced

Please join me in saying..."THERE WAS A NEW STREET FIGHTER MOVIE??!!" I must have missed that memo. It appears I have some catching up to do. I'm going to blame everyone who filled my feeds up with "OMG THE RAID IS SO DAMN AMAZING!!" every day for months. There are other movies out there, ya know?

The production team behind the successful STREET FIGHTER: ASSASSIN’S FIST series has today announced plans for its sequel; STREET FIGHTER: WORLD WARRIOR. Joey Ansah (THE BOURNE ULTIMATUM and SNOW WHITE AND THE HUNTSMAN), director and writer of Assassin's Fist, together with cast members Mike Moh ('Ryu') and Gaku Space ('Goki'), took to the stage at the Capcom Street Fighter Panel at San Diego’s Comic Con to announce the latest installment in the adaptation of the classic videogame franchise.  The new series is currently in development, with a launch date set for late 2015 / early 2016.

SDCC 2014: The Search For Edward Scissorhands Begins At IDW

Just in time for Halloween, IDW Publishing and Twentieth Century Fox Consumer Products are proud to announce the first in a number of new projects together, with the first ever Edward Scissorhands comic book series. The long overdue all-new adventures begin in October, with New York Times best-selling author Kate Leth (Adventure Time) on writing duties and Drew Rausch (Haunted Mansion) lending his delightfully spooky style to the interior art. Rounding out the creative team will be acclaimed Locke & Key artist Gabriel Rodriguez, who will provide a stunning and suitably creepy cover for the debut issue.

"Edward Scissorhands is one of those dream projects that only pop up once in a lifetime, so any new story set in its universe demands to be treated with love and reverence,” said IDW Editor Sarah Gaydos. “We've found a team in Drew and Kate, along with a crew of top cover artists who are not only exceptionally worthy of the task, but are bringing something completely fresh and relevant to the table."

Saturday, July 26, 2014

SDCC 2014: Go Go Power Rangers!

As we run the floor of San Diego Comic-Con looking for the most awesome toys, companies and people to show you, we often come across the same theme...in two entirely different places. This happened yesterday. On one end of the convention hall, photographer Hailey Mordah was drinking in her childhood at the Bandi displays where many a Power Ranger toy was there to tempt and delight. Outside of the convention in one of the areas reserved for interviews for TV and film, Sabina-Lissette Ibarra was looking for a place to sit, recharge and re-hydrate and found refuge among POWER RANGERS!! I guess if you can time travel, rocket through space and beat down giant monsters, having dual locations to show off your action figures is cake. WE WERE IMPRESSED ANYWAY!!

SDCC 2014: Hasbro's Mind Blowing Marvel Action Figure Diorama

At a show like San Diego Comic-Con, there are amazing things to see around every corner, for every flavor of fan the universe has to offer. For me, obviously toys draw a great deal of the oo'ong and ahhh'ing from me, but one spectacle in particular always makes my head tilt slightly like a puppy and my jaw slowly drop open as if to say "It's all full of stars...." Looking at the pictures websites are turning in of Hasbro's mighty Marvel Comics action figure diorama, you'll note the similar faces of the folks shot inadvertently on the other side of the case...eyes glossed over..head fixed...jaw slightly ajar.  Emilie Noetzel knows we want to pour over this massive display from the comfort of our own homes, looking for new characters never produced before (until we beg for 3 years) and simply taking in the glory of this fine, fine work, and so with our hopes and dreams in her mind....she took a f*!k ton of pictures. Approximately 1 f*!k ton.

Friday, July 25, 2014

SDCC 2014: Star Wars Rebels: Fanboy Freddie Prinze Jr. On Being A Jedi

Live from the show floor with Sabina -Lissette Ibarra:

At San Diego Comic-Con the cast of Star Wars: Rebels sat down to talk about the exciting new show from Clone Wars that will be premiering on Disney XD in the fall. Freddie Prinze Jr. ecstatically shared his enthusiasm for joining a world he's loved so much. He shared with press his joy at fulfilling a childhood dream, "It's something that anyone my age has gone through. I jumped off my roof when I was ten because I was certain the force would stop me. It didn't. I sprained my ankle-almost broke it. That's what kids did. It's STAR WARS!"

SDCC 2014: Max Steel Goes Hollywood

Did you know they were making a Max Steel movie? .....oh..you did. WHY DIDN'T YOU TELL ME?! We hit the show floor running on preview night at San Diego Comic-Con 2014 and when sprinting past the Mattel booth, we were surprised to see a whole section promoting the new Max Steel film coming in 2015! We may have missed the initial announcement on this, but we wouldn't have missed two glowing, Tron-esque figures in the middle of Comic-con.

Max Steel is an in-depth “origin” story packed with captivating characters and fast-paced action. The plot chronicles the adventures of Max McGrath and his mother have just moved back to Copper Canyon, the town in which Max’s scientist father died in a mysterious accident shortly after Max was born. As Max adjusts to his new school, things get complicated when his body starts to generate strange energy flare-ups that he can’t control.

Thursday, July 24, 2014

SDCC 2014: Teen Wolf Returning for 20 Episode Season 5

MTV announced today to a packed room of screaming fans at San Diego Comic-Con that the hit drama series "Teen Wolf" has been greenlit for a two-part, 20-episode fifth season.  Additionally, the room was given a first-look at the mid-season trailer which is currently available to view on iPhone/iPad or Android via the MTV App. 

Today’s Comic-Con panel marked the fifth consecutive year that “Teen Wolf” took the Con by storm.  Cast members Tyler Posey, Dylan O’Brien, Tyler Hoechlin, Holland Roden, along with newbies to the pack, Shelley Hennig and Dylan Sprayberry, and Executive Producer Jeff Davis participated in the panel and Q & A session moderated by Buzzfeed Senior Editor, Jarett Wieselman.

SDCC 2014: A Look Around the Show Floor




As we wait for the first full day of San Diego Comic-Con to draw to a close and Idle Hands' kick ass all female reporting team to buzz in, filling our email with a billion photos from all corners of the convention (quite literally), we thought we'd take this time to run through the convention floor and drool over massive displays for your favorite movies, TV shows and the killer company booths that make this convention fun and memorable. Let's start with a quick tour...

20 Years of Magic Captured in Weta’s 20th Anniversary Books

The celebrations of 20 years of film-making from Weta Group will kick off with the launch today of two stunning books capturing the history of the Weta companies.

The books, Weta Digital: 20 Years of Imagination on Screen and Weta Workshop: Celebrating 20 Years of Creativity will be unveiled at Weta’s booth at Comic-Con International and are available as a special edition dual set for purchase by fans attending Comic-Con.

SDCC 2014: Warcraft Movie Teased with Props and Title

At San Diego Comic-Con 2014, there are bound to be many major film announcements, sneak peeks, trailers premiered...hell Loki showed up last year and made the whole audience in Hall H pledge their loyalty. THAT WAS AMAZING. This year, those of you accustomed to going on Orc slaying  parties, or conversely, are Orcs just going slaying on any typical night ... you've got something to celebrate.

THE WORLD OF WARCRAFT MOVIE IS COMING!!! ...and it's called ....WARCRAFT!! Pretty sly, eh? The title was announced with little fanfare above an entry at the Legendary Films booth, accompanied by a war hammer, sword and shield....perhaps from the movie?

SDCC 2014: Preview Night Cosplay

In years past, preview night at San Diego Comic-Con was a race among the press to get as many things shot as possible on a virtually empty show floor while the industry folks and professionals around us laughed and pointed...and were able to hold actual conversations. You could hop in line and buy toys..shoot every damn Marvel figure, front and back, unmolested...and there was plenty of room for all. These days...it is WAR. I tip my hat to the brave ladies covering the con for Idle Hands this year (an all female team!) and give a slight bow to the few but bold cosplayers who were on the floor to fight the good fight. Here's the first round of what should be some epic cosplay galleries!

SDCC 2014: 75 Years of Batman: A Massive Display of Costumes and Props at DC Comics



And so the doors to San Diego Comic-Con 2014 opened and the mob took to the floor and many a frightened, first time booth attendant no doubt pee'd himself. Hell, we hear some poor kid broke his jaw at Hasbro trying to get exclusives! Be careful out there people...they are only toys and if we don't look out for each other, who will? Over at the DC Comics booth, the celebration for 75 Years of Batman was in full swing with a MASSIVE display of Batman movie costumes and props from every installment possible. All that's missing from our picture gallery is the image of a super fan and his/her child standing before the cases with twin gaped mouths. Dive right in and feel free to shed a tear or two...we won't judge.

Wednesday, July 23, 2014

SDCC 2014: Mattel's Preview Night Reveals

Are you ready for a taste of what’s coming to MattyCollector.com? Here we go…

Masters of the Universe® Classics Battle Ram™ with Man-At-Arms®, $110

Battle RamThe all-new fan-demanded MOTUC vehicle has arrived! The front half is a detachable Jet Sled™ with a snake design, which can be interchanged with the 2013 Griffin design Jet Sled™ that came with Sky-High. The new Battle Ram™ features real rolling wheels, a projectile launcher, and includes an all-new version of Man-At-Arms® with a helmetless head that shows off his awesome ponytail. The figure has double arm armor and “leather” boots, and arrives with mace, a pistol, and a sword that snap into his armor. This special year-end holiday item is not part of the Club Eternia® sub, and will be offered to everyone in our regular sale on 12/15.

SDCC 2014: Hasbro @ Comic-Con

Hasbro, Inc. (NASDAQ: HAS) is coming back to Comic-Con International in San Diego to celebrate its iconic and globally renowned brands including TRANSFORMERS, MY LITTLE PONY, MY LITTLE PONY EQUESTRIA GIRLS, KRE-O, and licensed toy and game lines for ANGRY BIRDS, MARVEL, and STAR WARS. From toys and games, to comics, television programs and Hollywood blockbuster films, Hasbro continues to entertain kids and fans around the globe with its world-class portfolio of brands year after year. Hasbro will bring its iconic brands and characters to life at this year’s convention, offering an exciting lineup of panels, autograph sessions, special edition toys, giveaways and more.

SDCC 2014: “24” Invades The Petco Park Interactive Zone

The clock is ticking and every second counts! Twentieth Century Fox Home Entertainment is bringing drones to the San Diego Comic-Con in celebration of the upcoming Blu-ray and DVD release of “24: Live Another Day,” available everywhere this fall. Fans and attendees will receive a 24-inspired flying lesson from an FAA licensed drone pilot, before piloting their own drone. Each 24 drone will have a camera that will record video of each person’s flight experience, and participants will be asked to share their video on social media using the hashtag #24Drones.

Should any drones go missing, we have received reports that Jack Bauer will be in the area to recover them.

SDCC 2014 Exclusives: Applehead Factory Revives Teddy Scares

Applehead Factory is excited to reveal the details of their Teddy Scares/2014 San Diego Comic Con exclusive! This year, for the first time a 12” Teddy Scare will be made available exclusively at the event. Teddy Scares are back!! A set of 3 new bears will be available in the “Collector’s Series” due this summer. To coincide with this release a special Edwin Morose will be available only at Comic Con. The SDCC version will have a special scarf. Edwin has always been a fan favorite and will disappear quickly. He is limited to only 250 pieces. He is packaged in the classic 12” Teddy Scare windowed box. In addition to our SDCC Exclusive the new “Collector’s Series” will be available. Stop by and get them while they last. The Teddy Scares will be at Booth #4923.

SDCC 2014: Pre-Show: On the Show Floor with DC, Marvel, Legendary, NECA, Teddy Scares & More

A little under 3 hours and the flood gates will open as the rabid hordes of geekdom storm the castle known as SAN DIEGO COMIC-CON 2014!!! As the hour creeps closer, our friends from 15 years of dorky news coverage are scrambling to finish their booths and make themselves presentable for the public, all of which doesn't stop them from showing off their spaces! Let's take a look around the show floor and discuss what's being unveiled this year...

We're being told this year's Comic-Con theme is "in mourning" as evidenced by the black tarps and drapes EVERYWHERE. In years past, a small group of ninja-like press could run the floor and snap pics of every little thing without being bothered much at all. Come Thursday, that story would change drastically as security would warn you to stay with your booth, as the other vendors don't want pre-show photography. This year it seems NO ONE wants pre-show photography, as a couple of our friends were already shoo'd away and threatened with ejection if they took one more fuzzy camera phone picture. Serious crack down, huh? Never the less, we have some tidbits to share.

SDCC 2014: Hot Wheels Scales Up Their SDCC Exclusive Darth Vader Corvette

Those attending San Diego Comic-Con 2014 will get to drink in the mind-numbing insanity that is a SDCC Exclusive Hot Wheels Car scaled up to life size, packing 526 Horsepower under the hood. A new license to make Star Wars Hot Wheels Cars was probably the only reason Mattel needed to go crazy and make geeks heads explode all over the convention floor. LOOK AT THIS IMPROBABLE THING!!!

SDCC 2014: Peavey Takes Guitars To A Galaxy Far, Far Away

Peavey Electronics®, industry-leading musical instrument and audio equipment manufacturer, is pleased to release a line of licensed guitars and accessories adorned with graphics based on the legendary Star Wars film franchise. The products are to be unveiled at this year’s San Diego Comic-Con International.

“Star Wars is a giant in the world of film, TV and video games, and the same can be said of Peavey in the music industry – so this collaboration just makes sense,” comments Peavey’s Tony Moscal. “I can’t wait for movie fans and musicians to see what we’ve come up with.”

Peavey’s line of Star Wars products is perfect for musicians and collectors alike. The products include full size Rockmaster® electric guitars, three-quarter size Rockmaster® electric guitars, half-size acoustic guitars, ukuleles and accessories.

SDCC 2014: Bif Bang Pow! on Flash Gordon

G.I.Joe scaled Flash Gordon figures.         ~Dies~
After a four year hiatus, Bif Bang Pow! proudly announces a return to Mongo with a new license from King Features Syndicate to release a series of brand-new products and collectibles from the 1980 sci-fi cult-classic film Flash Gordon.

"Bif Bang Pow! is well positioned in the character toys and collectibles market and we are delighted to have a new agreement with them," said Jarred Goro, North American Licensing Manager for King Features. "Flash Gordon and the other classic characters in his world are cultural icons. Bif Bang Pow! crafts quality merchandise with incredible attention to detail. The fans are going to love this new and expanded collection!"

SDCC 2014: IDW on Orphan Black

Orphan Black, the acclaimed sci-fi series by Temple Street Productions, assumes a new identity in the form of a comic-book series from IDW Publishing. IDW’s series will not be a clone of the show but will feature some all-new stories set in the complex and thrilling world of Orphan Black.

Orphan Black, in addition to being a captivating TV series, is a perfect premise for comics,” said Chris Ryall, IDW’s Chief Creative Officer/Editor-in-Chief. “And as the second season has expanded the series in exciting new directions, that has only increased the amount of stories we’ll be able to tell in comic-book form.”

Orphan Black, which has just been renewed for a third season, centers on Sarah Manning, who after witnessing the suicide of a woman that appears to be her doppelgänger comes into the knowledge that this woman and indeed herself, are two of many biological clones. Sarah takes on the woman’s identity and uses her position as a police detective to uncover the mystery behind what she is and what that means.

SDCC 2014: POP! THE ART OF THE GEEK Art Exhibition Benefiting the Art Revolution Foundation Opens TONIGHT

What:

POP! THE ART OF THE GEEK art exhibition benefits the Art Revolution Foundation, a non-profit organization whose 
mission is to raise awareness and funds to put art supplies in kids’ hands, placing art education back into America’s schools.

This exhibition is a smart, creative collection of artwork curated just for Comic-Con International: San Diego.  The group show highlights the artwork of a dozen established and emerging artists who have re-imagined the icons of pop culture in ways never before seen.  The exhibition is curated by Nathan Sawaya, the artist best known for his work with LEGO. ww.artrevolution.org  www.artofthegeek.com

SDCC 2014: Capstone Kids @ Comic-Con

Capstone, a leading publisher of children’s books and digital products and services, will feature some of the best in kids’ comics and super hero books at San Diego Comic-Con International, July 24-27. In celebration of “Batman Day” on July 23, Capstone will mark the 75thanniversary by showcasing many of its most popular BATMAN books in the Capstone booth. Highlights from Capstone’s schedule at booth 1316 include a raffle for original artwork from the Eisner nominated title Here I Am, free samplers of Jellaby, special author and illustrator appearances, and DC Comics Super Hero giveaway items, such as book bags, posters, and postcards.

Capstone will hold a drawing for original artwork from the 2014 Eisner nominated Here I Am by Patti Kim, illus. by Sonia Sánchez. Celebrated for its poignant story and bold illustrations, the emotional, wordless narrative follows a child’s immigration journey to the United States. The New York Times calls it “winsome” and praises the artwork, “the images vibrate with energy and detail.”

SDCC 2014 Exclusives: Entertainment Earth with Penny Dreadful, Star Trek, Big Bang Theory, Twilight Zone & More

THE DAMN SHOW IS ABOUT TO START!!!!  Well..not for another few hours but holy hell it's here. Entertainment Earth hold court in the middle of San Diego Comic-Con 2014 with their usual, highly impressive displays of collectibles that will leave you making face imprints all over their display cases, as well as a mega-powered lineup of exclusives from Bif Bang Pow, Toys R Us (click for their lineup!) and their own fantastic creations. Let's get a run down of what will be on tap...

First off... CELEBRITY SIGNINGS!    

SDCC 2014: BOOM! Exclusives, Events & More

Award-winning comic book publisher BOOM! Studios and its imprints, KaBOOM!, BOOM! Box, and Archaia, announced today it will return to exhibit at Comic-Con International in San Diego (San Diego Comic-Con, as it’s commonly called, or SDCC), to be held at the San Diego Convention Center in San Diego, California July 23-27, 2014.
BOOM! and its imprints can be found at Booth #2229 on the show floor and will host an army of creators for signings. Scheduled to appear are:

Hot Toys Back to the Future 1/6th scale Marty McFly Collectible Figure

“This is heavy doc.”Back to the Future is a pop culture icon and one of the best time-travel films of all time! It remains to be a highly popular movie even decades after the film is first released! Next year marks the 30th anniversary of this classic film and today Hot Toys is very excited to present the 1/6th scale Collectible Figure of the film’s main character – Marty McFly!

The movie-accurate Marty McFly Collectible Figure is specially crafted based on the image of Michael J. Fox as Marty McFly in the movie, featuring the newly developed head sculpt, highly detailed costume and a number of accessories.

SDCC 2014: The Pre-Show! Vikings, The Blacklist, Fury, The Walking Dead & Cosplayers Get a Jump on Comic-Con

Tomorrow is preview night, and before that, the stands will go up and the statues placed in their pretty cases and all the new movies promoted with whatever insanely awesome displays the movie companies have planned for the biggest geek gathering on the planet...SAN DIEGO COMIC-CON!!! Before the doors open and the hordes shamble in, the town itself prepares for the onslaught and even the buildings get special decoration for the event. Let's take a look around town!

Tuesday, July 22, 2014

Robot Chicken Gives Bitch Pudding Her Day

Some months back, I asked Matt Senreich if he had an awesome, high res capture of Bitch Pudding as she breaks through the window in the now legendary spoof of Strawberry Shortcake on Robot Chicken. He replied "Soon....you'll have something way better." I replied "Really....?" He said "YES". And so I waited..with no ability to make my own bootleg Bitch Pudding T shirt, but holding onto a promise from one friend to another. Today...that promise is fulfilled...with a trailer.

Monday, July 21, 2014

Mondo Reveals Iron Giant, Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles & Hitchcock Toys

Prepare for your weekly toygazm. Mondo is doing toys! The launch of figures for The Iron Giant, Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles and Alfred Hitchcock are Mondo's first foray into toy collectibles, with the subjects and diversity of design reflecting Mondo's unique passions. The initial offerings include replicas as well as toys from artist-based designs, which can be previewed at San Diego Comic-Con in Mondo's booth (#835).

Toys join Mondo's growing list of pop culture passions in posters, vinyl, gallery events, VHS and apparel. "I am so pumped to announce toys! We've been working on this in secrecy for a year and now it's time to let you guys know about it. We'll be focusing on existing properties that we love as well as working with artists to bring their own creations to life. This is a new area for us, but I resist the term 'expansion' since the goal for Mondo has always been to be a place where artists and designers can work to have their visions realized, whether that's through posters, gallery shows, vinyl, apparel or now toys," said Mondo CEO Justin Ishmael.

Bif Bang Pow on Mike Tyson Mysteries

World-renowned manufacturer Bif Bang Pow! has announced a new partnership with Warner Bros. Consumer Products with Warner Bros. Animation (WBA), to release a series of new products from the upcoming animated comedy series Mike Tyson Mysteries™, which is premiering this fall on Cartoon Network's Adult Swim block.

Bif Bang Pow! is proud to add the Mike Tyson Mysteries collection of action figures to its ever-expanding lineup of iconic products. Bif Bang Pow! will debut a Mike Tyson Mysteries Mike Tyson with Boxing Gloves 8-Inch Action Figure Convention Exclusive at San Diego Comic-Con 2014, July 23-27, at the Entertainment Earth booth (2343).

Sunday, July 20, 2014

SDCC 2014: Rovio's Angry Birds Take Flight with Transformers & Stella

Angry Birds will soon be flying South to this year’s San Diego Comic-Con to meet our fans and present our brand new cinematic trailers for Angry Birds Transformers and Angry Birds Stella. To celebrate the world’s most impressive comic bash, we are issuing new Angry Birds comics with IDW with an exclusive variation issue cover!

Outside the Convention Center both fans and media can hang out with Angry Birds Stella at the Stella Pop Up Experience in Petco Park - no badge required! Come and experience Angry Birds Stella, enjoy refreshments in our lounge, print out custom shirts while charging your phone, see the first gameplay demo of the upcoming game. Plus, if you drop by in an Angry Birds Stella inspired costume, you are in for an exclusive giveaway.

SDCC 2014: Star Trek @ Comic-Con

CBS Consumer Products announced today an out-of-this-world lineup for the iconic Star Trek™ franchise at Comic-Con International 2014 in San Diego. Fans will be able to participate in a full weekend of Star Trek events and activities at the world-famous convention including the Star Trek’s Ships of the Line panel on Thursday evening, and Star Trek: Live in Concert with the San Diego Symphony at Embarcadero Marina Park South on Saturday.

Star Trek fans will have an assortment of one-of-a-kind products to choose from including the debut of a collection of six dog tags featuring each series’ respective ship. The dog tags will be available at Star Trek licensee booths throughout the show, with a special dog tag available at the ThinkGeek Booth (#3849). Locations and times of the giveaways will be revealed via Twitter (@StarTrek).

SDCC 2014: Tokidoki's New Collaborations

tokidoki, the pop culture brand meaning “sometimes” in Japanese, is thrilled to reveal  product from its fall ’14 London Sole collection as well as tease the 2015 collaboration with Peanuts with an exclusive tote bag.  All the exciting news will be unveiled at the brand’s new 20x20 booth at San Diego Comic-Con July 24 – 27, 2014. The first 100 fans at the booth will receive a free tokidoki x MLB tote, no purchase necessary.
tokidoki will unveil limited-edition product exclusives including tees and hats as well as a 5” Golden Donutella vinyl for $30.00.  A tote bag, made exclusively for Comic-Con, will feature a tokidoki x Peanuts design with an MSRP of $15.00. All apparel and hats will be priced between $20.00 and $30.00. Click HERE for more on their exclusives!

SDCC 2014: Those Magnificent, Giant WB Bags

The bags are back! Comic-Con 2014 attendees hoping for a colorful and commemorative keepsake bag to hold their best swag are once again in luck. For the fifth year running, Warner Bros. Entertainment and Comic-Con have teamed up to produce and distribute the official bag of Comic-Con, which will be distributed to fans when checking it at the Con. The highly coveted bag, which can also be worn conveniently as a backpack, has been called a “must-have” by Variety and Comic-Con’s “ubiquitous accessory” by Entertainment Weekly.

    More than 130,000 of the bags have been produced and will be provided to Comic-Con attendees throughout the convention.
    The all-new 2014 edition again features backpack styling and features 13 different designs.

Saturday, July 19, 2014

SDCC 2014: UDON @ Comic-Con

Hey everyone! Down below you'll find the complete low-down on UDON @ Comic-Con, including special guests, convention exclusives, and much more! It's a ton of info, we know, so if you don't want to read the whole thing, here are the five most important things to know:
  1. The UDON Booth is #4529! Come see us!
  2. We're welcoming special guests Yoshinori Ono (Producer of Ultra Street Fighter® IV) and Kaname Fujioka (Director of Monster Hunter™ 4 Ultimate).
  3. We have 5 Comic-Con Exclusive items this year, including UDON'S Art of Capcom: Complete Edition Convention Exclusive Hardcover
  4. We will be announcing 10 new licenses at The UDON Panel 2014, Sat. July 26, 5:30-6:30, Room 26AB
  5. The UDON Publishing and Creative Services Staff will be available all weekend, and we invite business colleagues and media representatives to meet with us! Drop us a line at fans@udonentertainment.com.
All this and much more down below!