Author: Scott Alminiana

I'm a geek who steals peaches in a can that were put there by a man in a factory downtown!

Trailer For The Robert Zemeckis Directed “Flight” Starring Denzel Washington

by Scott Alminiana

Robert Zemeckis is finally returning to world of the living for the first time in 12 years. Welcome back, Bob! I’ve missed you.

Zemeckis’ new movie is Flight and it stars Denzel Washington as an airline pilot who saves a flight from crashing, only to have his heroics come under investigation. The film also stars Don Cheadle, Bruce Greenwood, James Badge Dale and John Goodman. Flight opens on November 2nd. Check out the trailer and let us know what you think.

Geekscape Comics Reviews: “Before Watchmen: Minutemen”

by Scott Alminiana

This week sees  DC’s controversial return to the world of Watchmen with Before Watchmen: Minutemen. This six-issue series is written and drawn by Darwyn Cooke, the man behind the fantastic mini-series DC: The New Frontier as well as the man responsible for bringing The Spirit into the mainstream DC universe. I love both of those aforementioned books and thus was looking forward to see Cooke’s take on the Minutemen. To say that I was let down is an understatement. So, what went wrong? Lemme break it down for you…

Let me just start by saying that Darwyn Cooke’s artwork is not the problem in this issue, in fact it is actually the issue’s saving grace. His artwork is uniquely his own and whenever you see a Darwyn Cooke page you know it’s one of his. His style fits the book perfectly. With the issue mainly set in 1939, the art fits the time setting nicely and still gives it a timely feeling. No, the art is not the problem at all. Well, then what is already?

The story is the big problem with the premiere issue. Why is it such a problem? Well, it’s because it’s boring. Issue one follows original Nite Owl, Hollis Mason, as he recalls the history of the first masks and what brought them together to form the Minutemen. The premise sounds interesting but the execution is not at all. Each member is given a few pages that shows their start in the world of the masks but the problem is that we aren’t really introduced to the characters, they are shown to us. We never truly get a chance to know who these characters are before we move on to the next character and soon forget ever meeting the previous character. I felt no connection to any of them and by issue’s end could care less about not only why they want to be heroes but also why they’d want to form a team. This is only a six-issue series so a slow burn story is not the way to go. Especially with this being the flag-ship book of the Before Watchmen prequels.

No, I didn’t hate this book, but I did expect a lot more. This was the Before Watchmen book that I was looking forward to the most and now I feel slightly cheated and very let down. Will I read issue two? Yeah, but I’m not looking forward to it. Should you read issue one? I say, save your money and go pick up DC: The New Frontier trade instead.

Sit back and watch the minutes slowly tick away

Trailer For Disney’s ‘Wreck-It Ralph’

by Scott Alminiana

The first trailer for the new Disney animated movie Wreck-It Ralph has just been released. It features the voice-talent of John C. Reilly, Jack McBrayer, Sarah Silverman, and Jane Lynch.

Here’s the synopsis for the movie: ‘The bad-guy character in a classic game who longs to be a hero brings trouble to his entire arcade after sneaking into a new first-person shooter game and unleashing a deadly enemy.”

Wreck-It Ralph wrecks his way into theaters on November 2.

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Russo Brothers In Negotiations To Direct “Captain America 2”

by Scott Alminiana

Back in March, we posted Marvel’s “short-list” of directors they had for Captain America 2. Well today Deadline  is reporting that Marvel Studios is in negotiations with brothers Joe and Anthony Russo, who were on said list, that would see them direct Captain America 2. The Russo brothers have directed one two movies to date, the Owen Wilson comedy You, Me and Dupree, and the 2002 heist comedy Welcome to Collinwood. They have also directed episodes of TV’s Community, Up All Night, Happy Endings (which they are also executive producers on), and Arrested Development.

Yeah, they sound like perfect choices to helm Cap 2, it’s about as great of an idea as that time Fox hired Tim Story to directed the Fantastic Four movies. We all remember how great those were, right? Then again, I remember thinking Jon Favreau was an odd choice for Iron Man and look how that one turned out, so who knows.

“Kevin [Feige, Marvel Studios’ president of production] is a ‘vibe guy,’” “He likes to see if he gets along with people before he’ll decide about spending the next two years with them. And apparently, they hit it off with Kevin in the room.” [Vulture]

Could it be that Kevin Feige really hit it off with them and thinks they would make a great movie, or is he just aiming to find some cheap directors who won’t get on his nerves for two years? You tell me.

Captain America 2 is scheduled to hit theaters April 4th, 2014.

Directing Duo Anthony (left) and Joe Russo

Bill Murray As The Human Torch In “The Fantastic Four Radio Show”!!!

by Scott Alminiana

Here’s something cool that a friend of mine sent my way. It’s a radio broadcast of The Fantastic Four Radio Show which ran for thirteen episodes in 1975. It features narration by non other than Stan ” The Man” Lee and features a young Bill Murray as The Human Torch…that’s right true believers, Peter Venkman was The Human Torch. So sit back, relax and enjoy the adventure. Excelsior!

“Rango” Co-Writer Hired To Write “Fraggle Rock” Movie!!!

by Scott Alminiana

Heat Vision  is reporting that Alex Manugian and Rango co-writer Jim Byrkit have been hired to write a script for Fraggle Rock, the big-screen version of the Jim Henson series from the 80’s.

Fraggle Rock aired on HBO from ’83-’87, it now maintains cult status among fan. It followed the adventures of Gobo, Mokey, Red, Wembley and Boober, mupplets called Fraggles who lived in caves under-ground.

A movie has long been in the works, the latest of which is being set up by New Regency with The Jim Henson Co. and the Montecito Picture Co. are producing. There’s no word yet on when it will hit theaters, so dance your cares away and save your worry’s for another day. Let the music play, down at Fraggle Rock!

Let the music play!

Andy Samberg Confirms His Departure From SNL

by Scott Alminiana

Well it’s official, Deadline is reporting that Andy Samberg has announced he will not be returning to Saturday Night Live next season. This should come as shock to no one. People had been speculating for months that Samberg, along with cast-mates Kristen Wiig (who received a sweet send off in the season finale) and Jason Sudeikis, would most-likely depart after this past season.

Samberg confirmed his departure through his publicist, “Obviously it’s not a huge shock, but I did officially decide not to come back.”

Together with Jorma Taccone and Akiva Schaffer, the trio make up The Lonely Island “the greatest fake MC’s on Earth,” they created and are responsible for all of the SNL Digital Shorts featured on the show. I should also point out that they are responsible for the awesomeness that is the 2007 movie Hot Rod. It’s not clear if Samberg’s departure from the show will also mark the end of the Digital Shorts, but honestly they just wouldn’t be the same without him.

He will next be seen alongside Adam Sandler in That’s My Boy, which opens on June 15th.

Marvel Wants To Give You $5 In Comics (Sorta)

by Scott Alminiana

In celebration of Spider-Man’s 50th and the launch of “Spider-Men,” Marvel is giving away free money…well sorta.

Beginning on June 3 at 12:01am EST to 11:59 pm EST on Sunday, June 10, when you purchase *select* Spidey books on the Marvel Comics app or the Marvel Digital Comics Shop, you will receive an e-mail/coupon (on June 11) good for $5.oo towards any comic book at your local shop. So basically, you buy the latest issue of “Ultimate Spider-Man” and you can get “Spider-Men #1” for free.

This marks the third time that Marvel has done a digital deal like this. David Gabriel, Senior Vice-President of Sales for Marvel Entertainment had this to say regarding the event: “With Spider-Man’s 50th anniversary just around the corner, we wanted to start celebrating early and with the overwhelming success of our previous Marvel Comics app coupon programs – we’re thrilled to do it again in time for SPIDER-MEN #1 driving new customers into comic shops!”

Marvel is smart and knows that this is a great way to not only drive the sales for their digital comics site but it will also help get some new fans into comic shops. It’s a win-win deal. So pick up a new Spidey book tomorrow and enjoy the free money…well, sorta.

Guy Ritchie Sets Sail For “Treasure Island”

by Scott Alminiana

Deadline is reporting that Warner Bros. has announced that Guy Ritchie will direct an updated take on the Robert Louis Stevenson classic “Treasure Island.” Alex Harakis (whom I’ve never heard of, nor does he have any writing credits to his name on IMDB page) has been hired to write the screenplay.

Guy Ritchie’s last movie was “Sherlock Holmes: A Game of Shadows,” which I never saw, but I really had no desire to see it due to the fact that there is only one true Sherlock Holmes in my opinion, and it ain’t Robert Downey Jr. Anyway, it comes out on DVD/Blu-ray on June 12th.

As for the announcement  of Ritchie directing “Treasure Island,” anyone who has seen a Guy Ritchie movie can tell you exactly what it will be like. It will be a monotone colored movie with a lot of sword fights in slow motion. I’m not saying that’s a bad thing though, I’m just stating the obvious.

Geekscape Comics: Preview “Spider-Men #2”

by Scott Alminiana

Check out this preview of ‘Spider-Men #2,”  hitting shelves June 27th, courtesy of Comic Book Resources.

Marvel is proud to present your first look at Spider-Men #2, by the chart-topping creative team of writer Brian Michael Bendis and artist Sara Pichelli! When Peter Parker is thrown into Miles Morales’ world, the duo begin a journey that will not only answer questions about their own identities, but also reveal the truth about a major character in the world of Spider-Man! Kick off Spider-Man’s 50th anniversary in style with double the web-slinging action in Spider-Men #2, hitting comic shops, the Marvel Comics app and the Marvel Digital Comics Shop this June.

New Trailer For Joseph Gordon-Levitt Movie “Premium Rush”

by Scott Alminiana

Here’s the latest trailer for the upcoming Joseph Gordon-Levitt bike messenger action movie “Premium Rush.”

In Manhattan, a bike messenger picks up an envelope that attracts the interest of a dirty cop, who pursues the cyclist throughout the city.

“Premium Rush” stars Joseph Gordon-Levitt, Michael Shannon, Jamie Chung, Dania Ramirez, and an army of fixie bikes. It rides its way into theaters on August 24.

Geekscape Comics Reviews: “Batman Annual #1”

by Scott Alminiana

This week sees the release of “Batman Annual #1” from Scott Snyder and James Tynion IV, with art from Jason Fabok. Inside this annual we are (re)introduced to Mr. Freeze and “The New 52” take on the character has some very cool changes. Seeing as here at Geekscape we aren’t big fans of spoilers I shall do my best to dance around the big ones found in this issue. Here we go…

As the issue begins we are introduced to Victor Fries as a young boy in Nebraska as he is on his way to a snowman building contest with his mother. In typical comic book origin fashion an accident occurs. The story then jumps to the present day as we find Victor, now locked up in Arkham Asylum during the “Night of The Owls.” Mr. Freeze then orchestrates a pretty chiller and killer escape from Arkham, once free he sets his sights on Wayne Tower and seeking some good old fashioned vengeance. Along the way there is a flash-back sequence that shows us the origin of this new Mr. Freeze that involves Bruce Wayne and how he was directly involved in the accident that turned Fries into Freeze. He blames Bruce Wayne for keeping him from his beloved Nora and plans to make him pay. Back in the present, Mr. Freeze faces off against both Nightwing and Robin in the bowels of Wayne Tower, defeating both in short order. Batman shows up on the scene and the two fight, during which time a stunning new twist is revealed. At the end we are once again taken back to a young Victor, this last scene will leave you with chills, pun intended.

This issue is co-written by regular “Batman” writer Scott Snyder and he is joined by James Tynion IV, a former student of Snyder’s at Sarah Lawrence College. They have crafted a great story that takes full advantage of DC’s “New 52.” They have put an awesome spin Mr. Freeze’s origin as well as managing to tie the story into the “Night of The Owls” event currently spanning all of the Bat books.

Jason Fabok is the artist on-board for this icy tale. Prior to reading this I was unfamiliar with his work, but after seeing his gorgeous art I look forward to seeing more from him. His redesign of Mr. Freeze doesn’t depart too drastically from Freeze’s previous incarnations but is updated for the “New 52” world. His panel layouts are easy to follow and his fight sequences, especially Freeze’s escape from Arkham, are down-right cool (sorry, had to get another cold pun in there).

Peter Steigerwald colors in Fabok’s art and he colors the book with lots of blue, red and black. He baths the flashbacks almost all in blues that help set them apart from the rest of the book. His colors complement Fabok’s art beautifully and helps distinguish this Annual from the ongoing “Batman” book and drive home the point of this issue. This is not Batman’s story, it’s Mr. Freeze’s.

“Batman Annual #1” is not only a great read but is also great way for DC to kick-off the first of their “New 52” Annuals. If the rest of DC’s Annuals are as well handled as this one fans are in for a treat.

Score: 9.5/10

"Everybody freeze!"

 

Geekscape Movie Reviews: “Moonrise Kingdom”

by Scott Alminiana

Hipster director Wes Anderson is back with “Moonrise Kingdom,” his follow up to 2009’s “The Fantastic Mr. Fox.” Anderson co-wrote the story with Roman Coppola (they previously wrote “The Darjeeling Limited), in which two 12-year-olds fall in love in 1965 and run away together into the wilderness as authorities search for them.

Newcomers  Jared Gilman and Kara Hayward play the roles of star-crossed 12-year-olds, Sam Shakusky and Suzy Bishop, and they give terrific performances. These aren’t regular kids, these are kids seen through a Wes Anderson filter.

Sam is an orphaned kid, disliked by both his foster brothers and his fellow kaki scouts. Suzy is a misunderstood girl, who lives in a lighthouse with her three younger brothers and parents (Bill Murray and Frances McDormand). The two meet and begin writing each other, soon hatching a plan to run away together into the great unknown. Scout Master Ward (a wonderful Edward Norton) soon realizes that Sam has “flown the coup,” enlists the help of police captain Sharp (an out of character Bruce Willis, but great none the less) and forms a search party made up of the kids from the scout troop, who are out for blood. Along the way, we are treated to performances from Tilda Swinton as Social Services (no really, that’s her name in this), Jason Schwartzmen as Ben, a scheming con-artist of a camp counselor, and Harvey Keitel as Commander Pierce.

I can’t give enough credit to Wed Anderson for his work here. If you’re not a fan of his, this isn’t going to win you over. If you are a fan of his work however, like me, you will find this endearing and charming without ever being cutesy or mushy. From the opening shot to the closing credits, there is always something wildly entertaining going on in each frame, be it the subtle look on a character’s face, or the wonderful narration of Bob Balaban. There are a few parts where the pacing does drag a tad but overall the film works wonders.

If you want to a see a film that is hilariously heartfelt, where you may find yourself smiling frequently throughout, then this film is for you. If that doesn’t sound like your type of movie, go see “Battleship” instead. The choice is yours, but choose wisely.

Score: 4/5

 

Who’s Playing Finnick In “The Hunger Games: Catching Fire”?

by Scott Alminiana

With filming set to begin this fall on the much anticipated sequel “The Hunger Games: Catching Fire,” speculation/rumor as to who will play the character of Finnick Odair are running rampant.

Last week saw the rumor that sparkly vampire Robert Pattison at been cast but those proved to be untrue, shocking, I know.

Well, this week we have more casting rumors to report. E! online is claiming that sources at Lionsgate are saying that the list of actors in contention is down to three. And those three actors are…. Armie Hammer, Taylor Kitsch, and Garret Hedlund.

Armie Hammer, most recognizable to audiences as the Winklevoss twins in “The Social Network,” will next be seen alongside Johnny Depp, where he will be playing “The Lone Ranger.” Taylor Kitsch, last seen in the bombs “John Carter” and “Battleship,” could use the work for sure, but his casting seems highly unlikely to me. Garret Hedlund, played the lead role in Disney’s “Tron Legacy” and was last seen in the film adaptation of Jack Kerouac’s “On The Road.”

While the source says the studio has narrowed it down to the three actors, yet another source claims that Lionsgate is also considering casting an unknown in the role. Who knows who will end up in the role, but it’s probably safe to assume that the role will be cast soon.

“The Hunger Games: Catching Fire” begins filming this fall. Stars Jennifer Lawrence, Josh Hutcherson, and Liam Hemsworth are set to reprise their roles. “I am Legend” director Francis Lawrence is slated to direct.  The Quarter Quell begins in 2013.

Who's it gonna be?

 

Geekscape Comics: Preview “Astonishing X-Men #51”

by Scott Alminiana

Check out this preview for “Astonishing X-Men #51” on sale June 20th.

The issue will see Northstar and Kyle tie the knot (assuming no villains crash the party) and there will be two variant covers available,  the Marko Djurdjevic variant that we showed you last week, along with a special “Create Your Own Wedding” blank variant cover by Phil Noto.

Simon Pegg Talks “Star Trek 2” Villain

by Scott Alminiana

In a new interview with The Telegraph, Geekscape friend Simon Pegg briefly spoke about “Star Trek 2,” and while he couldn’t say much, he did touch upon one very interesting topic. For months now, there have been plenty of rumors and internet speculation as to whom “Sherlock” star Benedict Cumberbatch is playing in the sequel.

Last month, TrekMovie claimed that Cumberbatch would be playing Khan in the movie but Simon Pegg had this to say on the subject:

“[Benedict Cumberbatch’s character is] not just another disgruntled alien. It’s a really interesting… sort of… thing. Obviously I can’t talk about it… It’s not Khan. That’s a myth. Everyone’s saying it is, but it’s not… I think people just want to have a scoop. It annoys me – it’s beyond the point to just ferret around for spoilers all the time to try to be the first to break them. It masquerades as interest in the movie but really it’s just nosiness and impatience. You just want to say, ‘Oh f— off! Wait for the film!’”

Well there ya go, straight from the mouth of Scotty himself. Benedict Cumberbatch isn’t playing Khan after all. So who will he be playing? Don’t ask us, Geekscape doesn’t ferret around for spoilers!

Simon Pegg’s new book “Nerd Do Well: A Small Boy’s Journey to Becoming a Big Kid” comes out in paperback on June 5th and is available for pre-order on Amazon.

 

Zombie Attack In Miami! Is The Zombie Apocalypse Here?!

by Scott Alminiana

Well, it appears as if the zombie apocalypse may finally be upon us. Over the weekend in Miami, a man was shot and killed by police after he wouldn’t stop eating the face of a homeless man on the MacArthur Causeway. Yeah, you read that last part right. He was eating a bums face! Zombies have arrived and they’re coming to get you, Barbara!

According to police sources for the Miami Herald, a “road ranger” saw a naked guy eating the face of a homeless man. The ranger tried to get the guy to stop his meal and back off to no avail, during which time an unidentified female flagged down a police officer. Once the officer arrived on scene he ordered the man to back away. When the naked zombie-dude failed to comply with the officers orders, first growling at the officer and then continuing to eat the homeless man, the officer was left no choice but to open fire.

In true zombie fashion, the man continued his attack after the first shot, forcing the officer to keep firing. Witnesses on the scene claim to have heard at least six shots fired. Obviously the officer didn’t know how to properly kill a zombie. A head shot, Mahoney! That’s how you kill a zombie. A. Head. Shot.

The homeless man without a face (think Mel Gibson in “The Man Without A Face”), 65-year old Ronald Poppo, remains in critical condition. No word as to whether or not he’s turned into one of the undead has been given. As for for the now dead-dead naked zombie-dude, he’s has been identified as Rudy Eugene. Authorities are claiming that bath salts, a new form of LSD, were responsible for his “zombie-like actions”. Yeah, right…that’s just them trying to cover up the existence of zombies.

The Mayan calender ends this year and some nuts have speculated that the world will end. Well, what if the world ends due to the zombie apocalypse? Who knows, but stocking up on ammo and getting yourself  an ax, or a chainsaw might be a good idea. Get your boomsticks ready, kiddies. It’s huntin’ time!

Oh and one last thing, if the zombie apocalypse does happen, leave all kids named Carl behind, they will only cause trouble and get any guys named Dale killed. That is all.

 

Hail to the king, baby!

Geekscape Comics: First Look At “American Vampire #27”

by Scott Alminiana

Here’s a sneak peak from the next issue of “American Vampire,” which hits shelves tomorrow. Scott Snyder has been killing it (pun intended) on this book since it’s release. Here’s the solicitation info from Vertigo:

“The Nocturnes” concludes here! Calvin Poole is a haunted man with a secret, but it’s nothing compared to the secret he uncovers in a small Southern town. Plus, a major character steps back onto the stage!

Source: Comic Book Resources

New “Django Unchained” Images Shoot Their Way Online!

by Scott Alminiana

Empire has released a batch of new photos from Quentin Tarantino’s eagerly anticipated new movie “Django Unchained.” I’ve been looking forward to this one since I first heard the words “Quentin Tarantino is making a western,” it was music to my ear holes. Check out the stills and let us know what you think.

“Django Unchained” blazes it’s way into theaters on December 25th and stars Jamie Foxx, Christoph Waltz, Leonardo DiCaprio, Samuel L. Jackson, Kerry Washington, and Walter Goggins.

“Abraham Lincoln: Vampire Hunter” Gets Not One But Two New Trailers!

by Scott Alminiana

Director Timur Bekmambetov’s latest flick, “Abraham Lincoln: Vampire Hunter,” is set to slay audiences on June 22. In anticipation of it’s undead upcoming release, 20th Century Fox has released two new trailers. The first trailer has some new footage in it and plays up Lincoln’s Gettysburg Address briefly shown in past trailers:

The second trailer is a red band trailer that was released last week and shows some more gore:

“Abraham Lincoln: Vampire Hunter” is based on the Seth Grahame-Smith novel of the same name and stars Benjamin Walker as honest Abe. The movie co-stars, Mary Elizabeth Winstead, Dominic Cooper, Alan Tudyk, and Rufus Sewell.

“E.T. The Extra-Terrestrial” Coming To Blu-ray This Fall!

by Scott Alminiana

Buy yourself a pack of Reese’s Pieces and get ready to relive your childhood. Steven Spielberg’s 1982 classic, “E.T. The Extra-Terrestrial,” is coming to Blu-ray for the first time this fall. The Blu-ray will be digitally remastered from the original 35MM film elements, with 7.1 surround sound, and will contain “hours of bonus features”. It looks as if fans will get the original theatrical version of the film and not the 2002 digital release, if not both. Here’s the trailer:

Back to Comics: Geekscape Suggests Books You Should Be Reading!

by Scott Alminiana

Here at Geekscape we read a lot of comics! And I mean a lot. If it’s on stands, odds are someone around here has read it. And as anyone who reads comics knows, there are tons of books on stands. Not only are there a ton of books on the stands, there are a ton of crappy books on the stands, but there are also some great books out there. You just have to know what to look for. In an effort to help you wade through the crap and help yourself find a winner, we thought we’d list a few titles that we are currently loving. So, without further ado, in no particular order, we present to you five books you need to check out:

Saga –  Written by Brian K. Vaughan, Art by Fiona Staples

Cover to Issue #1 of Saga

This book is only three issues in and it’s already one of the books I most look forward to every month. Saga tells the story of parents Marko and Alana, as they try to protect their new-born daughter, Hazel, all in the middle of an intergalactic war.  Marko (with ram-like horns on his head) and Alana (with wings on her back) are Romeo and Juilet archtypes, whose planets are at war with one another. They are on the run, branded as deserters and hunted by both sides. Vaughan’s writing is as sharp and original as ever. Fiona Staples’ artwork is just phenomenal, her visuals are truly a sight to be seen. This book has everything from the previously mentioned ram horns and wings, to a bare-breasted spider-woman bounty hunter (yeah, this totally isn’t a book for the kiddies), to Price Robot IV, a character with a TV for a head. If that all sounds wild and wacky that’s because it is…in the best way possible.

The Manhattan Projects –  Written by Jonathan Hickman, Art by Nick Pitarra

A page from Issue #1 of The Manhattan Projects (Image Comics)

This is Jonathan Hickman’s first on-going book for Image Comics and it’s a doozie. The book is set in alternate history that re-imagines such geniuses as  J. Robert Oppenheimer, here a literal mad-man, Wernher von Braun, an evil ex-Nazi scientist with a robot-arm, and Albert Einstein, among many others. The story asks the question,  what if The Manhattan Project, which gave the world the atomic bomb, created other deadlier and fantastic things? Yes, the premise is out there, but it’s oh so enjoyable. Nick Pitarra’s art is stunning and not like a lot of other artwork on comic stands. His art is distinctive and his character designs are just, well…cool. This book is three issues in, so this is the perfect time to catch up.

Daredevil –  Written by Mark Waid, Art by Paolo Rivera

Cover to issue #10 of Daredevil (Marvel Comics)

This latest volume of “The Man Without Fear” has been great right from the start. Gone is the über -moody Matt Murdock of years past with his dark/depressing story-lines. In it’s place, we find Matt Murdock in a much happier place than he has been in quite sometime. Waid is writing the hell out of this book. With thirteen issues to date, we have already seen Daredevil face off against the likes of Klaw, The Mole Man, and the New York crime syndicate (made up of all the major crime groups in the Marvel U). Joining Waid is Paolo Rivera on art. His covers for this book have been some of the best looking covers I’ve seen in  the history of ever! I absolutely love his art on this book. I especially enjoy the way that he draws Daredevil’s “radar-sense,” it’s hard to explain, it’s better to see it for yourself. Pick up an issue and give it a try, I doubt you’ll be let down.

The Flash – Written by Brian Buccellato & Francis Manapul, Art by Francis Manapul

Cover to issue #7 of The Flash (DC Comics)

This is one of the best books to come out DC’s “The New 52.” This book is great for new and old fans of The Flash alike. Co-writters Brian Buccellato and Francis Manapul have found new life in an old character and thanks to the relaunch of the DC universe, gone are years of convoluted and confusing continuity. In it’s place, we find Barry Allen, working for Central City PD in the crime lab, while also further exploring his powers and ability to tap into the speed force. Francis Manapul pulls double duty on this series as co-writer and artist and his art is fantastic. Even if the book had a weak story, his art would help to make it better and less noticeable. However, that is not the case, as both story and art have been outstanding right out of the starting gate. Issue nine was just released this week, so it’s as good a time as any to catch up. The Flash is a winner in my book and I’m glad to have Barry Allen back.

Scarlet Spider – Written by Chris Yost, Art by Ryan Stegman

Cover to issue one of Scarlet Spider (Marvel Comics)

Taking place after the events of the “Spider-Island” story-line in The Amazing Spider-Man, this story follows Kaine (Clone of Peter Parker, don’t ask) as he tries to make a new life for himself in Houston, Texas. Being as this is a super-hero comic and all, the citizens of Houston need saving from the evils of the world and thus we find Kaine, reluctantly becoming the new Scarlet Spider. The books motto is “All of the power, none of the resposibility” and that sums up the attitude of series very well. Kaine is no Peter Parker, he has no problem with extreme violence if need be. The story that Chris Yost has been telling follows Kaine as he has becomes a hero, despite wanting nothing to do with heroes in general, hence his being in Houston. The tone is very dark for a Spider-Man book and Ryan Stegman’s art helps establish that. His character designs look great and he draws the hell out of the fight scenes. Sadly, his time on the book will be ending with next months issue six. Artist Khoi Pham will be joining as new regular artist with July’s issue seven. I’m not how Pham’s artwork will mesh with the series, but if Yost continues to tell the quality tale he’s been weaving, then I think it’s safe to say that this book will be around for a while.

 

Well, there you have it…five great titles currently on sale. Hopefully, this will help you the next time you finding yourself in your local comic shop looking for something new to read. Pick up one of the books, heck, pick up all of them. Enjoy the adventures.

 

 

Geekscape Comics: First Look At “Wolverine And The X-Men #11”

by Scott Alminiana

Here’s a sneak peak from the next issue of “Wolverine and The X-Men,” which hits shelves next week. If you’re not reading this book, you should be. It’s one of, if not the best X-Men book on stands.

“With tensions between the Avengers and X-Men on the rise, Kid Gladiator takes on the Avengers single-handedly! Meanwhile, with the battle for Hope raging on, the students of the Jean Grey School must decide where their allegiances lie.”

DC Releases Two Pages Of “Superman: Earth One Vol. 2”

by Scott Alminiana

DC Comics wanted to thank all the of the fans of the Superman fan page on Facebook and in honor of the page reaching 2 million “likes” they have released two pages from the upcoming “Superman: Earth One Vol. 2.”

Here’s DC’s solicitation for Vol. 2:

The highly anticipated sequel to the #1 New York Times best-selling graphic novel SUPERMAN: EARTH ONE by acclaimed writer J. Michael Straczynski and superstar artist Shane Davis is here! Young Clark Kent continues his journey toward becoming the World’s Greatest Super Hero but finds dealing with humanity to be a bigger challenge than he ever imagined! From a ruthless dictator to a new love interest who’s NOT Lois Lane, things are never easy for this emerging Man of Steel. And the worst is yet to come, in the form of a man-monster with an insatiable appetite, the Parasite! The only thing that might appease his hunger is The Last Son of Krypton! But that will also mean he will have Superman’s powers without his conscience, and Kal-El learns to live without powers beyond those of mere mortals.

So what do you think of the pages, like them, loathe them? Are you looking forward to Vol.2? Let’s hear your opinions.

“Superman: Earth One Vol. 2” is written by J. Michael Straczynski with art by Shane Davis. It  soars into comic and book stores on October 31.

 

Happy Towel Day! Celebrate “Hitchhiker’s Guide To The Galaxy” Author Douglas Adams

by Scott Alminiana

May 25th marks the 12th annual Word Towel Day, which is a celebration of Douglas Adams, author of  “Hitchhiker’s Guide to the Galaxy.”

What’s Towel Day, you ask? Well, sit right back and let me break it down for you.

Douglas Adams, died of a heart attack on May 11, 2001 at the age of 49. Two weeks after his passing, fans decided they wanted to have a wake of their own in his honor and thus, on May 25th, 2001, the first Towel Day was held. It was a success and it has since become an annual tradition.

I know what some of you may be asking yourselves right now, “but why a towel,” and to you people I will first say, you have obviously not read “Hitchhiker’s Guide to the Galaxy,” in which case you should immediately go do so. You can thank me later. In the book, Adams writes this about towels:

“A towel, it says, is about the most massively useful thing an interstellar hitchhiker can have. Partly it has great practical value — you can wrap it around you for warmth as you bound across the cold moons of Jaglan Beta; you can lie on it on the brilliant marble sanded beaches of Santraginus V, inhaling the heady sea vapours; you can sleep under it beneath the stars which shine so redly on the desert world of Kakrafoon; use it to sail a mini raft down the slow heavy river Moth; wet it for use in hand-tohand-combat; wrap it round your head to ward off noxious fumes or to avoid the gaze of the Ravenous Bugblatter Beast of Traal (a mindboggingly stupid animal, it assumes that if you can’t see it, it can’t see you — daft as a bush, but very ravenous); you can wave your towel in emergencies as a distress signal, and of course dry yourself off with it if it still seems to be clean enough.

More importantly, a towel has immense psychological value. For some reason, if a strag (strag: non-hitchhiker) discovers that a hitchhiker has his towel with him, he will automatically assume that he is also in possession of a toothbrush, face flannel, soap, tin of biscuits, flask, compass, map, ball of string, gnat spray, wet weather gear, space suit etc., etc. Furthermore, the strag will then happily lend the hitchhiker any of these or a dozen other items that the hitchhiker might accidentally have “lost”. What the strag will think is that any man who can hitch the length and breadth of the galaxy, rough it, slum it, struggle against terrible odds, win through, and still knows where his towel is is clearly a man to be reckoned with.

Hence a phrase which has passed into hitch hiking slang, as in “Hey, you sass that hoopy Ford Prefect? There’s a frood who really knows where his towel is.” (Sass: know, be aware of, meet, have sex with; hoopy: really together guy; frood: really amazingly together guy.)”

Now, you know a little about importance of towels and why, when hitchhiking the galaxy you should always carry one with you. So, grab yourself a towel, fling it over your shoulder and remember DON’T PANIC!

Also, I should mention that today’s date 5/25/12 is an especially cool Towel Day due to the fact that 5+25+12=42!

Happy Towel Day everyone!

 

Supernatural Thriller “The Apparition” Gets A Trailer

by Scott Alminiana

With supernatural thrillers being all the rage today it’s no surprise to see yet another one is being released this summer. Yet, the new Joel Silver produced flick from Warner Bros. “The Apparition” doesn’t look so bad.

The movie looks to put a new spin on the supernatural horror genre and I was quite impressed with the trailer.

“When frightening events start to occur in their home, young couple Kelly (Ashley Greene) and Ben (Sebastian Stan) discover they are being haunted by a presence that was accidentally conjured during a university parapsychology experiment. The horrifying apparition feeds on their fear and torments them no matter where they try to run. Their last hope is an expert in the supernatural (Tom Felton), but even with his help they may already be too late to save themselves from this terrifying force.”

The movie is written and directed by Todd Lincoln and stars Ashley Greene, best-known for her role in “Twilight,” Sebastian Stan, who played Bucky Barnes in “Captain America: The First Avenger,” and “Harry Potter’s” own Draco Malfoy, Tom Felton. “The Apparition” scares it’s way into theaters on August 24th.

Geekscape Movie Reviews: “Men In Black 3”

by Scott Alminiana

Has it really been 15 years since Will Smith’s Agent J first donned the last suit he’d ever wear?! The first “Men In Black” was released back in 1997 and worked wonders, but then it was followed up with 2002’s lackluster “Men In Black 2”.

Following  the letdown that was “MIB2”, the franchise was wisely put on hold and the suits were put away in mothballs. Now that we’ve all had a chance to wash the bad taste out of our mouths the Men In Black are back for another adventure.

This time around we find Agent J (Will Smith), still working with his surely partner Agent K (Tommy Lee Jones), as they continue to keep the world safe from the scum of the universe. When an enemy from K’s past, Boris the Animal (Jemain Clement), escapes custody and travels back in time, altering the future, it’s up to Agent J to save the day. The new head of the MIB, Agent O (Emma Thompson) orders Agent J to travel back in time and “put right what once went wrong” and just like that we are off to 1969. Once he’s safe but not sound back in good old 1969, we are introduced to a scene-stealing Josh Brolin as the young version of Agent K and the two agents are off on an adventure that sees the likes of Andy Warhol, the  “Amazin’ Mets” and Apollo 11.

Director Barry Sonnenfeld has managed to make a movie that not only gets the series back on track, makes us remember what made the first film so enjoyable, and simultaneously making us forget how lame the second film was. Will Smith and Tommy Lee Jones don’t miss a beat in their roles but the real star of this movie is Josh Brolin. He does a fantastic impression of Tommy Lee Jones and manages to bring new life to what has been a fairly boring and humorless character. Brolin and Will Smith have good chemistry together and their scenes together make for some good laughs.

“Men In Black 3” proves that there’s still life in the franchise. Sure, the movie may have cost $215 million dollars to make and yes, it did get delayed quite a few times, but as it turns out a little extra time to fine tune the script wasn’t such a bad thing.

Is this the best movie you’ll see this summer at the movies? Doubtful, but if you’re looking to sit back, relax, and have a good time at the movies then this flick will do the job.

Score: 3.5/5

"See this little blue light, it'll make you forget Men In Black 2"

 

 

 

Geekscape Comics Reviews: “Batman Incorporated #1”

by Scott Alminiana

Welcome back to the wonderful, wacky bat-world of Grant Morrison. This week sees the release of “Batman Incorporated #1” and it’s a very welcome sight to be had. As with any Grant Morrison book, you may need a second reading to take it all in. This issue just has it all and it all works so well.

I’ll keep it light on any spoilers…

When the issue begins, we find Bruce Wayne and Alfred standing in the family cemetery, with Bruce informing Alfred that it’s all over with. Alfred asks Bruce a question, but before we get a chance to hear his response they are greeted by some surprise guests. From there the story flashes back one month and we find Batman and Robin in pursuit of a goat-headed killer. That’s right, a goat-headed killer, this is indeed a Grant Morrison book. Their pursuit leads to a pretty awesome fight in the middle of a meat-packing plant that’s filled with lots of blood.

The rest of the issue moves at a quick pace, we are treated to some ninja man-bats (oh how I’ve missed you), some great father-son banter between the dynamic duo, and a new villain by the name of Goatboy. Apparently there’s room for more than just one goat-headed killer in this town, Gotham does mean “Home of Goats” after all. There’s a few panels that show us what the rest of Batman, Inc. are up to, as well as the series main baddies Leviathan. The final page is a true cliff-hanger and will leave you eagerly awaiting the next issue.

Chris Burnham tackles the artwork in this issue and knocks it out of the park. The fight in the meat-packing plant that I mentioned earlier is a a particular standout, it all flows nicely and looks amazingly-bloody with blood splattered everywhere. Burnham also uses some really cool panel lay-outs in the issue. There’s a scene of Batman and Robin swinging through Gotham and Burnham uses the buildings in the foreground and background as additional panels and even colors them to look as if they have been painted on the side of the buildings. You’ll just have to see it for yourself, as my explanation of it can not do it full justice.

Everything in this issue just works so well together. If Grant Morrison keeps this up, Scott Snyder’s “Batman” may have some competition as the best bat-book on the shelves. Only time will tell of course. Do yourselves a favor and check this book out.

Score: 9/10

Na, na, na, na, na, na, na, na, na, Bat-Cow?!

 

 

 

 

 

Peter Weller To Voice Batman In “The Dark Knight Returns”

by Scott Alminiana

Peter Weller, best known for his role as “Robocop” will be the voice of Batman in the DC Comics animated adapation of the Frank Miller classic “The Dark Knight Returns.”

“The Dark Knight Returns” will be released in two parts with Part 1 releasing this fall and Part 2 coming in early 2013.

Weller will be joined by Ariel Winter as Robin, Wade Williams as Two-Face/Harvey Dent, and Michael McKean as Dr. Wolper.

Jay Oliva will be directing, he has previously directed “Green Lantern: Emerald Knights” and episodes of Cartoon Network’s “Young Justice”. Bruce Timm will be the executive producer on the project.

For those of you unfamiliar with “The Dark Knight Returns” (shame on you), it tells the story of Batman’s re-emergence after 10 years, having quit crimefighting in the wake of Jason Todd’s death. Batman comes out of retirement to save the now dystopian Gotham from decay and lawlessness. With the help of a new, female Robin, Batman ends the threat of the mutant gangs that have overrun the city and confronts two of his greatest enemies. He must also face Superman in a battle that only one will survive.

"Dead or alive, you're coming with me."

 

SOURCE: Comicbookresource 

First Image Of Michonne From Season 3 Of “The Walking Dead”!

by Scott Alminiana

The first picture of fan-favorite Michonne from “The Walking Dead” has just been released via the folks over at EW. Fans of the comic book about lost their minds when a mysterious katana wielding cloaked figure showed up at the end of the season 2 finale. Well, here’s just a little taste of what fans are in store for come season 3 of “The Walking Dead” when it premieres in October.

Relatively unknown actress Danai Gurira as Michonne

“The Walking Dead” creator/executive producer Robert Kirkman had this to say regarding the casting of Danai Gurira, best known for her role on HBO’s “Treme”,  “We looked at a lot of talented people that were really fantastic, but we were waiting for that one spark, that moment where everyone was completely in agreement and completely excited, and we felt like we had found the essence of this fictional character that just randomly appeared in another person, and that person was Danai Gurira. She kind of came in and really just blew us all away. She’s got incredible presence, and she’s got a theater background, and is very physical, and was just perfect for the role.”