Tag: DC Comics

‘Spartacus’ Star Manu Bennett Cast As Deathstroke In The CW’s ‘Arrow’

by Shawn Madden

We’ve seen him in flashbacks to the island but now Deathstroke is coming to Starling City in The CW’s Arrow! In the flashbacks Deathstroke was played by stuntman Jeffrey C. Robinson but we’ve now learned that Spartacus fan favorite Manu Bennett has been cast as the popular DC assassin. He has yet to remove the mask but we will see that change when the character returns in episode 9.

Bennett, best known as Crixus on Spartacus and who will also be appearing in The Hobbit: An Expected Journey, has signed on to appear in multiple episodes. Can we expect him to become one of Oliver’s recurring enemies? One can only hope.

Source: EW

The Mark: ‘Arrow’ Season 01 Episode 07 “Muse Of Fire”

by Shawn Madden

Did you miss last night’s episode of Arrow? Well, you shouldn’t have. This episode “marked” the start (Bad pun…I know) of the second real story arc and was definitely was one of the more significant episodes of the series. In the episode we saw a change from the typical formula of hunting down a name off the list in order to introduce new characters into the series and it’s ever thickening plot.

The plot was fairly simple for the episode but was full of some big revelations. We’re introduced to Frank Bertinelli and his daughter Helena, who will go on to become The Huntress. In the start of the episode we see Helena (in disguise) take a shot at one of her father’s lieutenants, who conviniently happens to be meeting with Moira Queen at the time. Ollive goes on to learn that several of Bertinelli’s gang have been killed, and while investigating, ends up on a date with Helena when Frank Bertinelli is called away to deal with other business. The other business? Meeting with the Chinese triad including China White. Oh, what a tangled web Arrow is weaving.

The episode had plenty of action and plenty of twists and turns to get us back to the pace that seemed to slow during the last episode. We’re also given one of the biggest surprises when we learn who John Barrowman’s character actually is. No, it’s not Maxwell Lord but let’s just say his last name is going to prove him to be one of Oliver’s greatest enemies or the reason that someone else becomes that enemy. Not a big enough hint for you? Well, take a look at the image below and you may piece it together because I’m not giving it away. So many events with serious repercussions were packed into this episode that definitely set Arrow up for some intriguing episodes to come. With the season finale quickly approaching, I can’t wait to see what they have in store for us.

The comic references and easter eggs you might have missed:

– Michael Staton: Helena’s dead fiance shares a last name with Joe Stanton. Stanton helped create both the original and rebooted versions of the Huntress.

– Tahmoh Penikett as Nick Salvati: Not exactly an easter egg, but Salvati was played by Tahmoh Penikett. Penikett has appeared twice on Smallville and will also be appearing in Man Of Steel. He will play Henry Ackerdson, an alias once used by the villain Metallo.

Andrew Kreisberg Starting Work On Booster Gold TV Series Before Christmas

by Shawn Madden

Not too long ago it was revealed that a Booster Gold television show was in the works. Last word on the series was that Kreisberg was planning on handing in the script for the pilot that will appear on SyFy. Kriesberg, while discussing The CW’s Arrow, has revealed that he will start working on the show before Christmas.

“I got a little waylaid by Arrow. Booster Gold is going in the next couple weeks before Christmas. We’ll see what happens from there. It’s such a different project even though they’re both DC Comics properties. Booster is much more candy and popcorn, being about time travel and changing the future and being a superhero who can fly. But they’re both super-fun projects. As a lifelong DC Comics fan, I am beyond blessed to be working on these projects with all these amazing characters.”

While not revealing that there isn’t much progress on the series, he does reveal that it is still alive. There’s no casting news but last we heard we could expect to see a good number of the character from Booster Gold’s comics. Could that possibly include Ted Kord aka The Blue Beetle? One can only hope.

Source: IGN

Deathstroke Revealed For ‘Injustice: Gods Among Us’

by Shawn Madden

GameSpot has revealed the latest addition to NetherRealm Studios highly anticipated fighting game Injustice: Gods Among Us. None other than Slade Wilson aka Deathstroke will be joining the roster that already incluides Superman, Batman, Joker, Wonder Woman, Harley Quinn, Solomon Grundy, Nightwing, Cyborg, Green Lantern, Green Arrow, Catwoman and The Flash.

Injustice: Gods Among Us hits shelves April 2013.

Joseph Gordon-Levitt Will NOT Be Playing Batman In ‘Justice League’

by Shawn Madden

Earlier yesterday, rumor hit the internet that we would see Joseph Gordon-Levitt reprise his role as John Blake as a cameo in Man Of Steel that would lead into him playing Batman in the planned Justice League movie. Now, not only was that a ridiculous rumor but a source at Warner Bros. flat out denied it to me last night after I contacted them.

And being how ridiculous of a rumor it is, it shouldn’t come as a huge surprise to learn that Joseph Gordon-Levitt’s reps have flat out denied his involvement with Justice League. Hollywood.com, “checked in with Gordon-Levitt’s reps who have refuted the rumor entirely.”

From what I have been told, Man Of Steel will be the jumping off point for DC’s “shared cinematic universe”. So, don’t hope for any ties to Christopher Nolan’s Dark Knight Trilogy because they probably won’t be there. We will definitely be getting a new Bruce Wayne/Batman for the film but there’s been no word as far as actual casting for the role yet.

David Anders Joins The Cast Of ‘Arrow’ As “Cyrus Vance”

by Shawn Madden

David Anders (Alias, The Vampire Diaries) will be coming to Starling City in thirteenth episode of Arrow as “Cyrus Vanch”. The character isn’t actually from the comics and is being described as one of Oliver’s greatest threats yet.

“Vanch is a ruthless career criminal who is released from prison after a long stint. Laurel is particularly invested in taking Vanch down. When she discovers that the police can’t get him off the streets, she turns to the Arrow for help. Unfortunately, the cunning Vanch is one step ahead of them — he’s looking to take control of Starling City’s criminal underworld, and in order to prove himself to the lowlifes, he’s got a mind to eliminate the man criminals fear most.”

With so many DC villains already coming to the show I am glad that they’re bringing in some original characters into the mix. With such a lengthy description it’s possible that we may see this character more than just once.

Source: Zap2It

The Mark: ‘Arrow’ Season 01 Episode 06 “Legacies”

by Shawn Madden

This week’s episode of Arrow may not have been the strongest of the series but it wasn’t horrible. The episode showed us what passed for quieter times in Oliver’s life and allowed the show to focus a bit more on some of the supporting characters.

The central focus of the episode centered around Oliver expanding his mission out to help anyone who needs his help, and not just solely focus on his list of targets. We’re introduced to the series incarnation of The Royal Flush Gang, this time around a group of bank robbers rather than cyborgs. Really…you were expecting the cyborgs? This change in Oliver’s mission statement came through the influence of Diggle, who continues to be endlessly useful in his role as Ollie’s partner. On the side we saw the romance sub-plot between Tommy Merlyn and Laurel Lance but it really wasn’t that interesting. Come on, we all want to see Ollie and Laurel together.

The main problem with this episode was that the villains really lacked any development.  The encounter between Olliver and the father in the bar was well done, but other than that the rest of the gang wasn’t really fleshed out much. The whole concept of a working class family just suddenly into becoming professional bank robbers just came off a bit weird. Overall the episode just felt like a filler episode but it did broaden Oliver’s range from just the list to every criminal which is very important. John Barrowman aka “The well dressed man” was nowhere to be seen this time around but hopefully he’s back next week so we can get one step closer to finding out just who the hell he is. Here’s to hoping that next week gets us back on track with the great start the series had.

The comic references and easter eggs you might have missed:

 stepping up as a hero rather than a ma

– A lost donor to Laurels legal aid foundation named Stagg: Simon Stagg is a fictional DC Comics businessman. Stagg is the unscrupulous owner and CEO of Stagg Enterprises and the father of Sapphire Stagg.

– The Royal Flush Gang holding up a bank in Keystone City: Keystone City is a fictional city in the DC Comics Universe. Specifically, it is the home of both the original Flash, Jay Garrick, and the third Flash, Wally West.

– Coast City: Coast City, was a city located in California. This made it one of the few fictional cities in the DC Universe to have a specifically given location from the start. The city is primarily the home to Hal Jordan aka Green Lantern.

Geekscape Comics: DC Cancels ‘Hellblazer’ And Replaces It With New 52 Title ‘Constantine’

by Shawn Madden

Since the start of the New 52, John Constantine has been a part of the new universe with Justice League: Dark. The character still maintained his Vertigo title Hellblazer as well. Currently that title is DC’s longest running title at the moment.

However, it’s been revealed earlier today that with issue #300 in February, Constantine’s Vertigo series will come to an end and we will see Constantine launched as part of the New 52. The 300th issue of Hellblazer will be written by Peter Milligan with art from Giuseppe Camuncoli and Stefano Landini. Constantine will be writen by Robert Venditti (X-O Manowar) with Renato Guedes (Superman: New Krypton) handling the art. Venditti stated:

“He’s going to be the same age that he is in Justice League Dark and the same character that people know and recognize – the drinking and smoking, the con man aspect of him – that’s going to be very much part of the series.

He is devious, he is underhanded and he’s a very big-picture oriented guy. When you’re dealing with things like demons running loose on earth, you need to be that way.”

Source: DC

The Mark: ‘Arrow’ Season 01 Episode 05 “Damaged”

by Shawn Madden

This week’s Arrow was probably the one that fans were looking forward to the most. And the hype was lived up to because it was easily the best episode since the pilot, and probably the best of the series thus far. “Damaged” picks up after the end of last week’s episode and the events that went down. The primary focus of this episode is proving Oliver’s innocence after his arrest last week. And there’s definitely some unexpected plot twists as we learn one piece of Oliver’s master plan.

The most impressive part of this episode was that it didn’t reply heavily on the action but heavily on personal drama. Writers  Wendy Mericle and Ben Sokolowski’s script for the episode is fantastic and moved quickly but allowed scenes the time to breathe and characters to interact. The dialogue in this episode, which has been a bit of a problem here and there, was noticably improved upon. We also saw quite a few sub-plots developed this episode. The primary of the two being the romance between Oliver and Thea and the bro-mance between Oliver and Diggle.

While the episodes high point’s were the drama…the action was still there. The big scene was definitely Deathstroke vs Yao Fei on the island and probably the best action sequence the show has offered so far. The very well choreographed scene does leave you wanting more though and hopefully we’re going to be getting it very soon.

Overall, the episode was definitely the best of the series so far and balanced a good amount of both drama and action. We still have no idea who John Barrowman’s character is but after this week you can definitely assume he’s definitely going to be someone huge. Trust me, we’ve got our fingers crossed that someone calls him Maxwell Lord at some point.

The comic references and easter eggs you might have missed:

– Edward Fyers: The characterappears in the comics as Eddie Fyers. In the comics he is a skilled mercenary and actually one of Green Arrow’s close allies.

– Kate Spencer: Similar to the show, Kate Spencer was a federal prosecutor. She eventually became the Manhunter character.

– Fishnets – In the episode, Laurel makes a reference to wearing fishnets at a Halloween party.  The most iconic part of Black Canary’s costume are her fishnet stockings.

 

Farscape’s Ben Browder Cast As Ted Gaynor In The CW’s ‘Arrow’

by Shawn Madden

Yet another DC character will be making an appearance in Starling City. The 11th episode of Arrow will see Ted Gaynor, a top officer in the United States Marine Corps and former member of the Blackhawk Squadron in the comics, played by Ben Browder. The character is being described on the show as:

 “Diggle’s commanding officer from his first tour in Afghanistan, who now works as a bodyguard for Blackhawk Squad Protection Group in Starling City. As a series of armored truck robberies strike the city, Gaynor proves to be a polarizing figure between Oliver (Stephen Amell) and Diggle (David Ramsey)”.

Browder is probably best known to you guys for appearing in Farscape and Stargate SG-1. Browder will be seen in the episode “Trust But Verify”, airing early 2013.

Source: IGN

Count Vertigo Is The Next DC Villain Coming To The CW’s ‘Arrow’

by Shawn Madden

It has been revealed that DC Comics villain Count Vertigo is set to make his small screen debut in Arrow early next year. This incarnation of the character is set to be very different than the comic book version of the character. Sources are indicating that the CW series will be giving him both a new name and appearance. In the episode we will see “the deadly new drug that becomes all the rage in Starling City in the Big Bad’s introductory episode will be called Vertigo!”

However, while they are making changes it is thought that his powers will remain intact. The character is being described as “truly scary and nightmarish,” and is “Oliver’s deadliest adversary to date.” Now the big question is…who is going to be playing the character?

Source: TV Line

Geekscape Comics: New Creative Team Taking Over On ‘Green Arrow’! DC Announces Two New Titles!

by Shawn Madden

Earlier today DC announced that starting with issue #17 Green Arrow will be getting a new creative team. Jeff Lemire (Animal Man) and Andrea Sorrentino (I, Vampire) will be taking over on the title.

DC also revealed today that they will be launching two new titles very soon. The first title will be Vibe (yes, really) from Andrew Kreisberg (the writer behind Fringe and Arrow) and artist Pete Woods (X-Men: Deadly Genesis). The second new series will be Katana from Ann Nocenti (Green Arrow) and Alex Sanchez (30 Days of Night: Spreading The Disease). I’m definitely interested in Lemire on Green Arrow. The others? Not so much.

Source: MTV Geek

 

Guillermo Del Toro To Helm Supernatural DC Comics Film ‘Heaven Sent’

by Shawn Madden

Well, it looks like we’ve got some interesting news over on the DC Comics film front. Latino-Review have just broken quite the interesting story. According to the site, Guillermo del Toro (Hellboy, Pacific Rim) will soon begin work on a DC Comics adaptation for Warner Bros. The film, called Heaven Sent, will bring together some of the most well-known supernatural characters from the DC Universe.

The film is said to feature Deadman, The Spectre, Swamp Thing, John Constantine (no word as far as if we will see Keanu reprise the role), The Phantom Stranger, Zatanna, Sargon and Etrigan The Demon. Suprisingly, Buddy Baker aka Animal Man is nowhere on the list even after how successful his current comic series is. I’m actually pretty surprised being that this is most of the line-up of the comic series that they aren’t titling this Justice League Dark.

Apparently, at the moment Warner Bros. lawyers are hard at work ensuring that they actually have the rights to use these characters. The film is quite some time away but it definitely sounds interesting.

The Mark: ‘Arrow’ Season 01 Episode 04 “An Innocent Man”

by Shawn Madden

We pick up this week’s episode where we left off. Oliver has revealed the truth about how he spends his nights to Diggle and it’s not very welcomed knowledge. So, how was the fourth episode of Arrow? Is the show still “hitting the mark”? I can definitely say that it is. This series is becoming more interesting with each episode and this week the character development definitely went up a notch.

The main plot focuses on Peter Declan, whom the episode is named after, a man on death row convicted of killing his wife in his daughter’s bedroom. His execution is imminent. And just like in reality, executions these days get a lot of press. While watching television Oliver Queen hears that Peter’s wife Camille worked for a certain Jason Brodeur. Why is that significant? Well, Mr. Brodeur’s name is on the list of course.

But there’s plenty of sub-plots as well in this episode as well that’s really giving it that comic book feel. They do an excellent job this episode jumping between the numerous sub-plots without getting us lost or confused. This episode was quite possibly the best for the series. We saw it develop the romance sub-plot, develop some of the supporting characters, contain plenty of action as well as ending with one hell of a cliffhanger. We also got some of the best flashbacks to the island as we learned even more about what really happened on that island. Or do we have no idea at all yet? Guess we’re going to have wait until next week to find out.

Something I particularly enjoyed about “An Innocent Man” is that the episode had a feeling of the 1970’s Green Arrow where his stories often centered on social issues instead of supervillains. In this era we saw Oliver Queen fighting crime to aid the people who needed it. He would come to the aid of the poor, the disenfranchised, and ethnic minorities. I’m glad that the team behind this show is really looking to bring in elements from each era of Oliver Queen.

Another thing that I am glad is that we weren’t given another DC villain in this episode. Rather than over saturate us and constantly remind us that this is a DC Comics show we are allowed to focus on the central and core plot of the series, the list. This “case of the week” format fits just right for this episode and offers up plenty of plot twists along the way.

With the introduction, and no we still don’t know who he is, John Barrowman’s character (we’re all hoping it’s Maxwell Lord) as well as promo at the end showing Deathstroke…we should definitely expect next week to kick things up a notch.

The comic book references &  easter eggs that you may have missed:

– “The 10:15 to Blüdhaven.”: Blüdhaven is a fictional city that served as a backdrop for the first Nightwing series. The city is both south of and located close to or adjacent to Gotham City, home to Batman.

– Iron Heights: Iron Heights Penitentiary is a maximum-security prison which houses the many Flash rogues and superhuman criminals of Keystone City and Central City when captured. Iron Heights first appeared in Flash: Iron Heights (2001).

 

‘Man Of Steel’ Title Animation Leaked Online?

by Shawn Madden

It appears so. While, this could totally be fan made…highly doubt that it is. Definitely looks much like what we’ve seen already. With a full-length trailer set to debut very soon it is highly likely that the opening animation for Zack Snyder’s Man Of Steel has made its way online. Either way…check it out.

Man Of Steel hits theaters June 14th, 2013.

Six Images From ‘Arrow’ Episode 6 “Legacies” Featuring The Royal Flush Gang

by Shawn Madden

It appears after the cliffhanger ending of this weeks episode of Arrow, we will see Diggle begin to help train Oliver in his quest to save Starling City. These new promotional photos from the sixth episode of Arrow were just released and feature Oliver Queen training with bodyguard John Diggle. We also get a peak at the Royal Flush Gang’s bank heist in the episode. In the series we will see the gang given a more realistic approach versus their cyborg versions in the comics.

THE ROYAL FLUSH GANG INVADES STARLING CITY — A gang of bank robbers, dubbed The Royal Flush Gang, hits a local bank and seriously wounds an off-duty police officer during a heist. Diggle (David Ramsey) tells Oliver (Stephen Amell) he needs to deviate from his father’s list and start helping the citizens of Starling City. Meanwhile, Tommy (Colin Donnell) asks Thea (Willa Holland) for relationship advice, but things get awkward when she realizes he was asking about Laurel (Katie Cassidy). Moira (Susanna Thompson) confronts Oliver about all of his recent disappearances in the middle of family functions. John Behring directed the episode written by Moira Kirland & Marc Guggenheim (#106).

Source: GreenArrowTV

The Mark: A Weekly Look At ‘Arrow’

by Shawn Madden

The third episode of Arrow lets off another shot and it continues down the path that this show has been on. The show has been getting progressively better with each episode with the action seeming to get stepped up a notch and the character development becoming more interesting.  In “Lone Gunmen”,  we see Oliver Queen finding himself tasked with taking down a deadly assassin known as Deadshot (played excellently by Michael Rowe), while dealing with personal crises unresolved from his time on the island.

This week’s episode brings in yet another popular DC character very smoothly and in a fashion that is acceptable to both fans as well as the general audience. I’m not quite sure if it’s the stars or the tone of the drama with this series, but with only three episodes down that are full of rich plot developments as well as perfect amounts of action, this show is becoming one of our favorites (well, some of us) of the new season.

The performances in this episode were the strongest of the three, especially for star Stephen Arnell. And while he only had a few lines (keep in mind that Deadshot doesn’t really say much in the comics) I think Michael Rowe’s performance as Floyd Lawton, aka Deadshot, was fantastic and I would hope for more of it. Well, that is if he survived that final showdown… We’re hoping he did and comes back with a vengeance. Or is that too comic cliché? Overall, the action and the performances in this episode were the best of the three so far.

One thing I feel I have to comment on, while I loved Nolan’s Bat-films, is that Arrow is doing a much better job of the detective angle. I’m really impressed by how much detail they are paying to this and I did feel it was one thing that the Bat-films lacked.

The episode ended with plenty of cliffhangers and questions that left you wanting more, including a pretty big revelation for one of the main characters.

And of course, there are the comic book references &  easter eggs that you may have missed:

– The “New 52” reference: Floyd Lawton aka Deadshot is staying in room 52 at the hotel.

– Black Canary foreshadowing: In the club scene we are introduced to Dinah Lance being proficient in hand to hand combat which could foreshadow the chance of seeing her become her DC Comics alter-ego, Black Canary.

– Felicity Smoak: This character isn’t actually a Green Arrow character. Felicity Smoak is a character who was introduced in Firestorm during the 80’s. The character was the manager of a computer software firm in New York City.

Did we miss anything this week? Let us know! And check back next week when we take a look at the next episode: “An Innocent Man”.

Geekscape Comics: Kevin Smith Announces ‘Batman: Bellicosity’

by Shawn Madden

Kevin Smith has revealed the title of his next Batman miniseries, which will hit shelves next Summer, as well as some artwork from it. The miniseries will serve as a conclusion to his Onomatopoeia trilogy, which we saw begin in Cacophony and continued in The Widening Gyre.

“FAT MAN ON BATMAN!

SPOILERS: This Walt Flanagan splash page showcases the Dark Knight and the unnerving Onomatopoeia from ish 1 of the forthcoming conclusion to our New York Times Best-Selling Batman cycle!

A few years back, DC Comics made my dream come true when they let me do a BATMAN comic book mini-series with one of my best friends – COMIC BOOK MEN Stash manager, Walt Flanagan.

It started with BATMAN: CACOPHONY…

It continued with BATMAN: THE WIDENING GYRE…

And in 2013, the blood will run in the final chapter of the battle between Batman and Onomatopoeia …

BATMAN: BELLICOSITY
Summer, 2013”

Source: Facebook

The CW Orders Full Season Of ‘Arrow’

by Shawn Madden

With ratings that hit the mark for the network, it looks like The CW’s Arrow will be sticking around for awhile. After just two episodes the CW has made the decision to pick up the series for a full 22-episode run.

Being that the series premiere became the network’s most watched episode of a TV show in over three years, this isn’t really all that surprising at all. Honestly, I don’t think anyone would be surprised if we get a second season as well. Are you guys ready for more Arrow?

Source: TV Line

Geekscape Comics: DC Cancels Four More Titles

by Shawn Madden

This January will see the final issues hitting the stands for Frankenstein: Agent of S.H.A.D.E., Blue Beetle, Grifter, and Legion Lost. G.I. Combat will also be ending in December, but is being replaced the following month with a new cosmic series from Keith Giffen called Threshold.

Geoff Johns and David Finch’s Justice League Of America will replace one of these cancelled titles but what about the other three? It’s highly unlikely that we will see Scott Snyder and Jim Lee’s Man Of Steel by that time…so does DC have two books that they’ve yet to announce or are we about to have the New 48?

Source: Newsarama

‘Arrow’ Shows Off A Sizzle Reel At NYCC

by Derek Kraneveldt

The final day of New York Comic Con 2012 is well underway, and CW had some highlights to show off from its hottest new show. Arrow premiered this past Wednesday to HUGE numbers: as we reported earlier this week, the pilot was CW’s most watch show in three years.

All is not perfect in Starling City however, due to their drastically different feelings on the pilot, we posted two separate reviews: Molly thought the show missed the mark, while Shawn felt as though it wasn’t far from it.

Whether you liked it or not, the teaser shows off some cool moments to come from Arrow‘s first season, albeit with a very CW feel. Check it out below, and let us know what you think!

Arrow airs Wednesdays at 8pm on The CW.

Conan O’Brien Joins Cast Of ‘The Dark Knight Returns Part Two’

by Shawn Madden

There’s been no shortage of news coming out of this year’s New York Comic-Con. The most recent bit announcing that late night talk show host Conan O’Brien has joined the cast of The Dark Knight Rises Part 2. O’Brien will be providing the voice of talk show host David Endocrine in the film.

If you’re unfamiliar with the character, The Joker’s appearance on the David Endocrine Show ends wiith him gassing the crowd with the Joker toxin, killing everyone including Endochrine. The Joker also slashes his apologist shrink, Dr. Wolper, to death while on television. I’m pretty sure this is going to make Team CoCo fans very happy. Leno fans? Probably not so much.

Source: IGN

First Look At Deathstroke On The CW’s ‘Arrow’

by Shawn Madden

In the series premiere of The CW’s Arrow this week, us fans got something that got us very excited. We saw a quick shot of a very well known DC Comics assassin’s mask and word has been out for awhile that Deathstroke would be appearing on the show.

In the upcoming episodes “Damages”, which also will see the debut of John Barrowman’s character, Deathstroke is coming to Starling City. Let’s just say we can expect things to get ugly. Arrow is definitely basing their version of the character on his comic book version when it comes to the look…and hopefully he comes with the skills to match. Honestly, I think we’re all excited for this one.

Source: IGN

First Look At John Barrowman On The CW’s ‘Arrow’

by Shawn Madden

The first look at John Barrowman’s character in Arrow have been revealed and we also know what episode he will make his debut in. Do we know what his role is yet? Nope. We still have no clue who Barrowman will be playing in the series. The Hollywood Reporter reveals that we will first see Barrowman appear in episode five titled “Damaged”.

His character code name at the moment is still “The Well-Dressed Man” who “is as mysterious as he is wealthy” as well as “an acquaintance of the Queen family and a prominent figure in Starling City”. In the second image you can see him talking to Oliver’s mother, could he have something to do with the big reveal at the end of the episode?

If you missed the series premiere of Arrow you can catch it at 8 pm tonight on The CW.

Geekscape Comics: Jim Lee And Scott Snyder’s ‘Man Of Steel’ Series Confirmed

by Shawn Madden

It’s been a rumor that has been floating around for quite some time now that we would be seeing Scott Snyder (Batman) and Jim Lee (Justice League) teaming up to bring us a new Superman title. Earlier today it was officially announced that we will see Man Of Steel hitting shelves from the creative team of Snyder and Lee. It’s been roughly twenty years since I have a bought a Superman title after being burned as a kid by The Death Of Superman. Well, it looks like that’s about to change.

Snyder comments on where this title fits in the continuity and what we should expect from the first arc:

This will play along with the other Superman books in the sense that it’s in continuity, but we really wanted to carve out our own territory. This really is sort of the biggest, most epic Superman story we could do together while having our feet planted firmly in continuity and making sure that everyone had enough room. For us, this is an independent book and something that will challenge Superman in a big way that’s unique to our book. At the same time, I’m friends with Scott and with Andy too, so we’re really excited to play alongside each other and share ideas. I think one of the interesting things about him is that Clark is always Clark. But for Superman, the thing that makes him such a strong character is that the values he grew up with and the person he was raised to be are still at the core of what makes him the most powerful superhero on earth. This isn’t going to be a story where it’s Clark versus Superman or seeing the two of them split. It’s more about challenges for Superman that rock him to the core emotionally, psychologically and also physically. It really is going to wind up putting him up against someone who can go blow-to-blow with him and really take him down.

Source: CBR

The CW’s ‘Arrow’: Not Quite A Bulls Eye, But Not Far From The Mark

by Shawn Madden

Not too long ago we posted a review of the pilot for CW’s Arrow. The review wasn’t too positive but regardless I decided to give the show a “shot” tonight. Upon actually watching I definitely disagree with the review. The show definitely isn’t a bulls eye but I don’t think it’s far from the mark and has potential. The thing that some comic fans may miss is that we aren’t the only demographic out there. So, how exactly do you strike a balance between bringing in television audiences that have most likely never even heard of Green Arrow while also attracting fans of the source material? It’s a hard feat to accomplish at times especially with TV budgets.

And sure the pilot does lean at bringing in some new viewers for the show by giving it a CW feel to it. Keep in mind however that the CW feel isn’t too strong that it overpowers the vibe of the show. There are plenty of nods to get fans excited throughout the entire episode as well. The subtle touches that the series seems like it will have will keep the every day audience interested in the story and comic fans interested to see where they go with these characters and interpritations. They appear to be making an effort to keep both audiences happy while not overwhelming or underserving either group.

The series premiere does a great job at grabbing new viewers by introducing them to Oliver Queen’s backstory while not boring them and moving forward with the story at the same time. They did a great job of making quick work of the basics of the story, Oliver Queen is a billionaire playboy who was stranded on an island for five years and presumed dead, and now he’s back in Starling City (Yes, we know it’s not the same city name. Get over it.), and then allowed to establish him as the vigilante hero of the city. They did a pretty neat job of an origin in one episode without actually making it feel too rushed.

Under his new alias, Oliver is hunting down folks from a list of names supplied by his father, which apparently took place before commiting suicide before him, a point that even I got a tad lost on. But moving on…these people are all the people who have screwed up Starling City in one way or another, with the implied aid of the Queen family fortune.

So, let us get this one out in the open. They are definitely trying to Nolan this. And why wouldn’t you? DC has had some of their best success under the work of the man. The thing is they do this and many fans may cry foul but I guess you guys really don’t know the back story on Oliver Queen aka Green Arrow. When Oliver Queen appeared in 1941, he was basically just Batman in a Robin Hood get up. Queen was a billionaire playboy who fought crime as a hobby after surviving on desert island. He had a ward, who was also his sidekick, sound familiar? The only really difference was that that he didn’t have the dead parents to give him that spark. Well, that’s one difference they changed in the show.

Stephen Arnell succeeds at bringing Oliver Queen to life. He definitely does a great job in the role and there’s small things that you notice that make it even better.For example, if you pay really close attention you will notice that Oliver moves quite differently pre and post island. It’s a nice touch. Another thing to note is that there is this distinct lack of comfort to Amell’s performance that really helps ground the character. The rest of the cast is pretty good but nothing amazing. Katie Cassidy as Laurel has the most potential of the rest of the cast but we haven’t seen it yet to be honest. Another thing worth noting is that the premier heavily benefits from David Nutter’s directing. He seemed to make sure that the scenes were visually striking regardless of how much or how little action was taking place in them.

Of course the show had it’s share of bad things in it. Don’t get me wrong. The CGI was just awful in general. You would expect Warner Bros. to put a little more into a property like this as far as that goes. It is really bad. And I definitely was not a fan of the voiceovers in the series. But when it comes down to it, Arrow is definitely a show with potential to appeal to both fans of the comics as well as people who have zero clue who Green Arrow is. I sat down and watched the pilot with my mom who even agreed that she could see herself watching the show again. And in all honesty, I know I am sticking around at least until the episode where Deathstroke makes his appearance.

Geekscape Comics: New ‘Action Comics’ Creative Team Revealed

by Shawn Madden

It was confirmed earlier today by DC Comics that writer Andy Diggle (Daredevil) will be joined by Tony Daniel (Detective Comics) on art duties when the duo take over Action Comics from Grant Morrison as of issue #18. Diggle is probably best known for a controversial run on Daredevil and Daniels most recently wrote a very boring run on Detective. It also appears we may be seeing Superman donning a new suit in the first look at Tony Daniels artwork.

Diggle on the working on Action Comics:

“Even in an industry dominated by superheroes, Superman is THE superhero – the original and best – and I’m flattered, daunted and inspired in equal measure at being given the opportunity to build on such an incredible and historic legacy. The word ‘iconic’ is bandied around a lot in comics, but Superman defines the term. I’m excited to be working with Tony Daniel, whose artistic and storytelling skills will be bringing the world(s) of Superman to stunning visual life. Together we’ll be carving out spectacular new adventures that respect the past while redefining the future of the Man of Steel.”

Source: DC

Green Arrow Announced For ‘Injustice: Gods Among Us’

by Shawn Madden

After the revelation of the game and some announcements at San Diego Comic-Con, the news regarding  Injustice: Gods Among Us has been a tad slow. Well, minus revealing that there is going to be a collectors edition of the game. But there has been plenty of characters yet to be announced for the game still.

Entertainment Weekly has now revealed the latest addition to the game, the emerald archer himself, Green Arrow.

Injustice: Gods Among Us hits shelves next April.

Geekscape Comics: The Weekly Pull List For The Week Of October 3rd!

by Shawn Madden

Every week there’s plenty of titles that hit your local comic shop. Maybe you’re having a hard time deciding which issues to pick up this week? Or maybe you just want to check out something that you’re not reading yet? Well, have no fears long box junkies…I am here to help you out with The Weekly Pull List. Every week I will give you a heads up on what will be the six issues that should be on the top of your stacks and pull lists this coming Wednesday. So, let’s start it off with The Weekly Pull List for the week of October 3rd!

AVENGERS VS X-MEN #12

-Extra-sized final issue! It all come down to this! The final battle-as the world burns!

This should be the no-brainer top of your stack this week. Let’s keep it real here.

UNCANNY X-FORCE #32

– FINAL EXECUTION nears its brutal finish! X-Force finally faces the new Brotherhood of Evil Mutants all together!

We’re nearing the end here guys. If you haven’t been reading this series, do yourself a favor and go pick up every back issue. You’re welcome in advance.

ANIMAL MAN #13

– It’s the story you’ve been waiting for: ‘ROTWORLD: THE RED KINGDOM’! Part one of a four-part epic in which the Earth has fallen to the Rot! Guest-starring Justice League Dark, Beast Boy and many other heroes and villains from the DC Universe!

I haven’t been a fan of much of DC’s New 52 but this is sure to be one of their best crossover story arc’s. Jeff Lemire has definitely brought new life to this character and it’s definitely going to be the best DC book out this week.

HYPERNATURALS #4

– Thinkwell, Bewilder and Clone 45 begin to discover just how deep Sublime’s scheming runs, as they discover the lone survivor of the cataclysmic event that seemingly wiped out the previous Hypernaturals team.

It’s a brand new story arc and definitely a perfect jumping on point for readers. If you’re looking for something new this one is definitely worth giving a shot.

DOCTOR WHO #1

– The Doctor is back! Welcome to a new, exciting era for everyone’s favorite Time Lord, as New York Times bestselling writer Andy Diggle pilots the TARDIS as the ongoing series architect.

So, I am not even a Doctor Who fan myself. But, this book is being done by Andy Diggle  (The Losers) and Mark Buckingham (Fables), which means even I may have to check it out.

THIEF OF THIEVES #9

– Augustus’ troubled past comes back to bite him where it hurts – and Redmond’s son has to step up to the plate to keep an angry cartel at bay. Meanwhile: Cohen pushes harder on Conrad.

It’s a book written by Robert Kirkman. Of course you should be reading it.

This weeks trade spotlight: Death The Deluxe Edition HC

– Now in DC’s acclaimed deluxe format, this new hardcover collects all things Death, including DEATH: THE HIGH COST OF LIVING #1-3, DEATH: THE TIME OF YOUR LIFE #1-3, plus extras including ‘Death Talks about Life’ AIDS pamphlet, stories from VERTIGO: WINTER’S EDGE #2 and THE SANDMAN: ENDLESS NIGHTS, the short story ‘The Wheel’ from the 9-11 tribute book, SANDMAN #8 and #20, and art from the DEATH GALLERY!

Never got a chance to check out some of Neil Gaiman’s best work? Well, now you can in one collected edition that also features some beautiful artwork from Chris Bachalo. These stories are definitely one the “must read” list.

Geekscape Comics: Grant Morrison Reintroducing The Multiverse To DC

by Shawn Madden

This weekend at MorrisonCon in Las Vegas, writer Grant Morrison announced that he will be reintroducing the Multiverse to DC Comics with an eight-part miniseries entitled Multiversity.

The following was said about the series on DC Comics’ blog:

“DC Entertainment is proud to confirm that Grant Morrison’s love letter to superhero comics, MULTIVERSITY, will be hitting stores in late 2013.

MULTIVERSITY is an 8-issue series comprising 6 one-shots and a two-part conclusion with each issue featuring a 38-page lead story followed by an 8-page backup. Each issue takes place on a different parallel world from the main DC Earth and functions as a number one issue. Each world in the Multiverse publishes comic books about the heroes on the OTHER worlds. Once the characters realize this, they then unite to respond to the villains!

Additionally, each universe (which have been brewing in Morrison’s mind for years) will open up an endless series of worlds and realities for future writers and creators to use, expand upon and enjoy.”

Also, each issue will be drawn by a different artist, and while DC is keeping most names under wraps, it is confirmed that Frank Quitely will be handling the art duties for the fourth book, Pax Americana. Below is a preview of PAX AMERICANA #1, eaturing The Question and what appears to be Ted Kord aka Blue Beetle. The Pax story revolves around the assassination of a president and how the Charleston characters failed him.

Source: DC