Tag: DC

Here’s Your First Official Look At ‘Supergirl’s Superman!

by Derek Kraneveldt

Briefly: We’re still a few months away from Supergirl‘s anticipated second season premiere (on it’s new home on The CW), and today the network debuted our very first look at Teen Wolf‘s Tyler Hoechlin as Superman.

We still have no idea just how Superman will incorporate into the series, or how much he’ll be hanging around (and limiting our time with Kara), but in any case, we cannot wait for this one to come back to television.

Take a look at the first-look image below, and be sure to let us know if you’re looking forward to Supergirl‘s return.

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SDCC 2016: ‘Supergirl’ Panel Recap!

by jake108

After making the jump to the CW, Supergirl aims to one-up its first season and dazzle new and existing viewers with their second season. Supergirl will be airing on Monday’s, which will be followed by The Flash on Tuesdays, Arrow on Wednesdays, and Legends of Tomorrow on Thursdays. Fans of DCTV are in for a treat, should Supergirl deliver!

Unfortunately for us, Supergirl has just begun filming, meaning that there was no new footage to show us during the panel. Instead, we were treated to a sizzle reel that showed key moments in Supergirl‘s first season. After that, the panel came out, most of which was the main cast. Tyler Hoechlin was there as a sort of coming out party for Superman. Plenty of fun tidbits with the cast happened during the panel, some of which I was able to capture. Check it out below!

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Aside from the funny moments, a few things were confirmed for season 2. First off, the panel briefly discussed the now confirmed four-part crossover event that is happening approximately eight episodes into the season. However, they did not let on how exactly Supergirl would be introduced into the Arrow–Flash universe. I’m sure creators are exploring every avenue they can to bring the characters together. I feel that everyone assumes Kara will make an appearance on the Earth we know in Arrow and The Flash, but don’t be surprised if characters from the later two shows appear in National City!

Furthermore, show creators stated that even though we do have an inclusion of Superman on the show, the focus will not deviate from Supergirl. This is crucial as the show should stick to what the show is actually about. Still, you should expect to see some tension between Superman and Supergirl on what it means to be a hero. Of course, we do know that Superman has been doing this for a little while longer than Kara, but that doesn’t mean Kara doesn’t have handle on what she’s done in her first year as Supergirl.

In regards to Alex, we should be finding out a lot more about her character and her backstory in this next season. Actress Chyler Leigh, who plays Alex on the show, is deeply excited to see where showrunners take Alex next.

As for character romances, a Kara-Jimmy romance was hinted on for early next season. Jeremy Jordan, who plays Winn on the show, also hinted at a potential love interest. And of course, how could we forget Lynda Carter? Her role wasn’t exactly discussed in detail for the show, but because Superman and Supergirl are now in one place, we should expect that at the very least the President of the United States would take notice.

Supergirl premiers Monday, October 10th!

Geekscape Comics: Weekly Reads!

by Karson

Welcome to another edition of Weekly Reads! Our opportunity to look back and discuss the titles from the previous week in comic books.

👎 – Skip, read at your own risk
👌 – Okay, not great, not bad, you might find something to like here
💪 – Great, highly recommended
🙅 – Dropped the series

DC

We’re nearly a few months into DC’s Rebirth and that new and exciting feeling that came with it is starting to fade. Yes, there are still Rebirth titles being released but we have many series’ reaching their third issues. We are beginning to get a feel for what should be read and what can be left behind. It’d be nice to read everything but unless you have a lot of time and a lot of money, it just isn’t feasible. It’s time to think about what can be cut from our weekly reading. That said, I did a boat load of DC reading again this week…

👌 Batgirl and the Birds of Prey – Rebirth #1
👌 The Hellblazer – Rebirth #1
👌 Justice League #1
👌 Aquaman #3
👌 Batman #3
💪 Green Arrow #3
👌 Green Lanterns #3
👌 Superman #3

As far as the Rebirth titles go, nothing special here. They have that same Free Comic Book Day/get acquainted with the characters feeling that most Rebirth titles have had thus far. Birds of Prey revolves around the team of Batgirl, Huntress and Black Canary. It looks like they’re going to be hunting down a villain who stole the entity of Oracle and is messing with Barbara’s identity. Constantine is back in The Hellblazer, depending on your interests you may be more familiar with the character from the television show than his 300-issue comic book run, or if you’re like me, neither. This issue was a lot of fun and did a great job introducing me to the characters and the world, I’ll probably stick with this for at least a story arc. I think fans of AMC’s Preacher may enjoy this title.

Justice League begins and aliens are still attacking and it looks like they are going to have to deal with some of the side effects of The Blood Prophecy from Green Lanterns. There are some nice scenery and a few action-packed panels in this title but overall it’s not quite firing on all cylinders yet. A lot of style, but not a lot of substance.

Green Arrow is still going strong. If I could only follow one DC book, this would be it. Art is great, writing is tight and each issue leaves you craving more! In Batman, we got to learn a little about the origins of Gotham and Gotham Girl. As well as find out Hugo Strange has found himself a partner! Finch’s art style for Gotham feels spot on. Green Lanterns continues to explore the dynamic between Jessica and Simon, the newest green lanterns. I’ve been slowly appreciating and enjoying this story more and more with every issue. Aquaman is starting to feel too political for my liking. For me, Aquaman is at it’s best when there is more water in the environment, here it takes place mostly in buildings. Superman, I was wondering what the heck was going on, until I realized I forgot to read #2. So I’ll have to take care of that business before getting too much farther ahead.

Again, my take on these new series’ are that you should read what characters interest you. With the exception of Green Arrow, I don’t think any title is a whole lot better or worse than any other title. Explore, dip your toes in a few different books and find out what you like.

Marvel

👌 Spider-Man #6
🙅 Uncanny X-Men #10

Yes, I’m losing interest in all things Marvel Comics currently. There are just too many other good books on the market to spend my time reading their currently mediocre stories. That said, I did give the latest Spider-Man a read.

This issue just wasn’t for me. There was far too much dialogue for my liking. I felt a lot of the stuff that was explained through dialogue could have been explained in different ways but that’s ok, I don’t know the grand vision of the story so maybe this issue will pay off down the road. Despite not enjoying most of the issue, there are still a few plot points I’m interested in so I can’t drop the series just yet.

If you’ve been reading Weekly Reads for awhile now you’ll know I haven’t thought too highly of the current X-Men books, especially Uncanny, so I decided to pull the trigger this week and drop it. Let me know if I made a mistake.

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👌 Snotgirl #1

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I started hearing about Snotgirl quite a bit a few weeks ago, I quickly judged it by it’s cover (and title) as something I wasn’t interested in. Then I found out it was written by Bryan Lee O’Malley (Scott Pilgrim, Seconds, etc.) so I hesitantly decided this is a must-read. I’ll summarize the experience: cover, didn’t interest me. First few pages, didn’t interest me. Next few pages, didn’t interest me. Last few pages, still not that interested. Last page, ok, I’ll pick up the next one. Leslie Hung’s art goes great with O’Malley’s words but her style isn’t really my thing. Basically, this story is just strange enough and the ending just enough of a cliffhanger to make me want more. If O’Malley didn’t write this would I read the next issue? Probably not, but he did and therefore I will.

Dark Horse

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👌 Black Hammer #1

Honestly, at this point I’m getting sort of tired of writing about comic books and the debut of Black Hammer didn’t wow me enough to make me any more enthusiastic to write about one more book, but I’ll try anyways. This book also falls under the category of wouldn’t-have-read-it-if-it-wasn’t-for-the-writer-behind-it. Basically we have a group of super heroes who have been displaced in time and are living a simple farming life, most of them aren’t content with it. This issue we meet them and discover someone from their time is going to track them down. That’s about it, nothing too interesting. I’ll probably read the second issue though because you know, it’s Jeff Lemire.

Book of the Week

Green Arrow (2016-) 003-000

Green Arrow gets the title again, this series gets better with every issue.

SDCC 2016: ‘Injustice 2’ Panel Recap!

by jake108

We had the pleasure of being at the Injustice 2 panel at this year’s San Diego Comic-Con! Here’s what you need to know!

The panel started with the trailer they released during this year’s E3. After that, the lead on the project, and creator of some of our most beloved games, Ed Boon stepped out on stage. Perhaps one of the most interesting things Ed Boon talked about early on in the panel was how Injustice came to be. Of course, fans of the DC lore know there’s a comic, but as for how it ended up on the consoles, Ed Boon said NetherRealm studios was looking to work on a game that was a little less gory. Still, Boon was grateful that the folks over at Warner Bros. and DC Entertainment allowed Boon and his team to create a more violent atmosphere for some of DC’s most iconic heroes and villains.

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Boon went on to elaborate how the creation of this new mini-universe existing within the greater DC lore kept him and his team focused and dedicated. The chance at adding a new chapter in the DC Universe was something NetherRealm and Boon wanted to accomplish from the start. As for Injustice 2, the game’s story is taking precedence, which is highly unusual for fighting games. The first game’s lead writer is back and promised that there’s much more in store for the sequel. One of the most exciting story-related announcements from the panel was that of Supergirl’s heavy involvement. According to Boon and the panel, Supergirl’s story arc is going to be major and may be the catalyst for the sequel’s story. I’m only guessing here, but is it possible Supergirl would break Superman out of prison we saw him in at the end of Injustice?

As for the gear featured in the game, there will be lots of it and gamers will be constantly progressing. But for fans who are in the competitive scene, fear not! Injustice 2 will feature a Tournament Mode in which the gear and all its attributes will be negated, creating an even playing field.

The first Injustice game had 30 characters total, and Ed Boon himself confirmed that Injustice 2 aims to break that number, making it the biggest DC roster yet for a fighting game. Not only that, but the panel let on that there will probably be at least one major Mortal Kombat character to be included later on via DLC. Boon also commented on the number of tweets he gets, asking for specific characters to be included in the game. We should be getting character reveals at every convention from here until release date. As for this year’s convention, we got a trailer introducing Wonder Woman and Blue Beetle.

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It’s important to note that all player models were created with the use of facial motion capture, ensuring top quality when the game releases. As for Blue Beetle, I also want to get it out there that hero will in fact be a teenager. That’s it for now folks! Injustice 2 will be releasing next year.

SDCC 2016: Zack Snyder Surprises Fans With The First Trailer For ‘Justice League’!

by Derek Kraneveldt

Briefly: This we did not expect.

Earlier today in the still-ongoing Warner Bros. panel in Hall H, the studio finally screened the first, impressive trailer for next Summer’s Wonder Woman.

Now, director Zack Snyder himself has debuted the first footage for Justice League.

The trailer re-introduces us to each member of the League, and begins with Ben Affleck’s Batman in search of Aquaman.

The tone looks starkly different than the dark and brooding Batman v. Superman, and offers a much more lighthearted feeling. As one would expect, it’s a gorgeous trailer with a bunch of slow motion… and the oft-questioned ‘The Flash’ effect actually really cool.

Take a look at the trailer below, and let us know what you think!

SDCC 2016: Watch The First Trailer For ‘Wonder Woman’!

by Derek Kraneveldt

Briefly: Following the incredibly gorgeous first poster revealed last night, Warner Bros. has just debuted the first trailer for next year’s Wonder Woman solo film.

This marks a great first look at the anticipated film, and we’re extremely glad that Gadot’s Batman v. Superman performance silenced the internet haters, as she looks even more at home in her own solo film.

Before she was Wonder Woman, she was Diana, princess of the Amazons, trained to be an unconquerable warrior. Raised on a sheltered island paradise, when an American pilot crashes on their shores and tells of a massive conflict raging in the outside world, Diana leaves her home, convinced she can stop the threat. Fighting alongside man in a war to end all wars, Diana will discover her full powers…and her true destiny.

Take a look at the trailer below, and be sire to let us know what you think! Wonder Woman hits theatres on June 2nd, 2017.

SDCC 2016: The First Poster For ‘Wonder Woman’ Is So Freaking Beautiful!

by Derek Kraneveldt

Briefly: Wonder Woman herself, Gal Gadot, has just revealed the very first poster for next year’s Wonder Woman solo film… and it’s probably the best poster that we’ve seen in recent memory.

It’s an extremely simple image that simply shows Diana, standing sternly with her sword, but it’s the silhouette, contact, and colouring of the poster that makes it truly outstanding. This looks more like art than a piece of marketing material, and I’m sure I’m not alone in saying that I would love to get my hands on one.

Before she was Wonder Woman, she was Diana, princess of the Amazons, trained to be an unconquerable warrior. Raised on a sheltered island paradise, when an American pilot crashes on their shores and tells of a massive conflict raging in the outside world, Diana leaves her home, convinced she can stop the threat. Fighting alongside man in a war to end all wars, Diana will discover her full powers…and her true destiny.

Wonder Woman hits theatres on June 2nd, 2017.

Geekscape Comics: Weekly Reads!

by Karson

Surprise! Were you beginning to think this week’s edition of Weekly Reads was never going to be posted? Fear not, it has arrived. Things were a bit strange this week since I was camping the previous four days. Despite being able to adapt to reading digital comics, reading digital comics while camping is something I haven’t been able to master yet! So, between a full work day and a trip to the gym, I managed to squeeze a ton of comic book reading in, so without further ado, here are my brief, freshly-thought thoughts of last week’s reads!

Note: It’s getting late, so I don’t feel like tracking down the Comixology links, if you are interested in any of them, though, just Google the title followed by Comixology. Easy!

👎 – Skip, read at your own risk
👌 – Okay, not great, not bad, you might find something to like here
💪 – Great, highly recommended

DC

💪 Action Comics #959
👌 Detective Comics #936
👌 Hal Jordan and the Green Lantern Corps – Rebirth #1
👌 Nightwing – Rebirth #1
👌 The Flash #2
👌 Wonder Woman #2

Sadly, being able to keep up with all of DC’s new books may be coming to an end, but I decided to give it at least another week, we’ll see how much longer I can keep up. For the most part, I am loving everything DC is putting out right now and this week was no different.

Action Comics is a blast right now! I know it’s very similar to BVS (with Doomsday and all), but this is so much better! I love the way Jurgen’s handle’s Superman’s son. The action moments are awesome, the character moments are awesome, this book is a solid read. While there is some continuity to deal with it, I think the book does a good enough job of providing you with the jot notes.

If you remember a few weeks back, we discussed how Detective Comics would likely be a book more focused on Batman’s team? That point was driven home in issue #936, early on we find out Batman has been defeated in battle and it’s up to his unprepared team to save the day! If you’re only going to read one of the Batman titles, I’d recommend Batman over this, though.

This week’s Rebirth titles, Hal Jordan and the Green Lantern Corps and Nightwing, are both decent offerings. Hal Jordan might not be as accessible to new DC readers as their other titles are. It’ll take a few issues before I can get a sense of whether these books are worth recommending to those who aren’t superfans of the character.

I’m not sure if I’m just stupid, but I have no idea what’s going on in Wonder Woman so if you are digging that tweet me about it.

Marvel

👎 Civil War II #3
💪 Power Man and Iron Fist #6
👎 All-New X-Men #11

Sorry everyone, if you like Civil War II, you should probably read about it elsewhere. I’ll continue to subject myself to its torture, but I just can’t get into it. I’m sure there are a lot of people who enjoy it, and maybe it’s worth giving it a shot in trade, but for one reason or another, I just can’t get into it. The events in it seem to play out randomly, it lacks cohesion with other Civil War II titles, and overall I just can’t help but feel that it is a cheap attempt by Marvel to collect money from their fans.

A tough issue for Danny Rand, things go from bad to worse as this issue plays out and concludes with it’s biggest cliffhanger yet. Not quite as many laughs per page as you might be used to from this series but there is still some genuine laugh out loud moments. I didn’t like Captain Marvel’s cameo in this issue, her tone her doesn’t match her tone in the other Civil War titles. This is only a minor flaw, though. Flaviano’s artwork isn’t quite on the same level as Sanford Greene’s, but it gets the job done. Power Man and Iron Fist remain one my favourite series’ that Marvel is currently putting out.

Don’t let the cover fool you, you won’t find an adult Apocalypse in All-New X-Men #11, I assume that’s Marvel trying to sucker you into giving them more of your money. I enjoyed this story arc decently enough; it was cool seeing Apocalypse as a heroic child, although it’s too bad that we will probably never see what goes on to change him. Honestly, the ending to this aspect of Apocalypse Wars falls a little flat, just like all the books within it. The days of prioritizing the X-Men at Marvel seem to be long past, and it seems they are destined to follow in the footsteps of the Fantastic Four until a time comes where they require the film rights.

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Anyone check out Horizon #1? I haven’t had a chance yet, but hopefully, I get a chance to in the following weeks!

Book of the Week

Action Comics (2016-) 959-000

Action Comics #959 blew me away. Love how the title balances action-packed battle sequences with endearing character moments.

Geekscape Comics: Weekly Reads!

by Karson

👎 – Skip, read at your own risk
👌 – Okay, not great, not bad, you might find something to like here
💪 – Great, highly recommended

DC

👌 Aquaman #2
👌 Batman #2
💪 Green Arrow #2
👌 Green Lanterns #2
👌 Justice League Rebirth #1

I can’t get enough of DC’s Rebirth. Eventually, I’ll cut back (in fact, I almost skipped Green Lanterns) but I’ll wait until things get a little tougher to keep up with. Green Arrow has been blowing me away and is my favourite of the current Rebirth titles. Percy is telling a Green Arrow tale that is starting to feel a lot like a Frank Miller’s Born Again story arc for Daredevil. For those of you unfamiliar with the reference, it means good things, very good things.

Justice League Rebirth wasn’t as exciting as I was hoping it would be since it basically just served as an introduction to the team, but Hitch’s art provided enough action, spanning cities and giant monsters to make the issue enjoyable.

I don’t have much to say about the other titles. Batman is pretty solid so far, after two issues most of the chess pieces are in place and it looks like things are going to start getting really interesting for Batman, our new super-powered heroes, and the villain who is revealed by the issues conclusion. Green Lanterns and Aquaman are both decent enough reads, just not characters that I feel a strong connection to yet.

Marvel

👌 Amazing Spider-Man #15
👌 The Punisher #3

Last week’s Amazing Spider-Man was interesting. It looks like Peter, MJ, and Regent may remember the events of Secret Wars. This came out of left field, so I’m not sure what the implications of it could be but I’m excited to find out. The issue concludes with a shocking twist, leaving one of our characters lifeless (probably not, but maybe) on the ground. I’d recommend picking up issues #13, #14 and #15 and start familiarizing yourself with this series. I have a feeling Amazing Spider-Man is going to find itself in must-read territory very soon.

Sure, this Punisher run isn’t reinventing the wheel, but it has been a lot of fun so far. It has everything you’d expect from a Punisher book; the Punisher, bad guys who are after The Punisher, good guys who don’t know whether they’re after bad guys or the Punisher, and a whole lot of violence!

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💪 The Fix #4
💪 Paper Girls #7

I’ve previously mentioned The Fix isn’t as strong or funny of a title when the two characters aren’t together. The trend continues here as we see what Mac is up to. However, I found myself enjoying this issue as much as the first two. I can’t recommend this title enough, we’re only four issues in so go pick ’em up and get in on the fun!

I’m loving Vaughan’s Paper Girls. It is just so unlike anything I’ve ever read before. The art is a lot of fun and Vaughan’s plays with time travel (a concept that many would say has been done to death) in plenty of fun and inventive ways. This isn’t a series you can just start reading though, if you are interested I strongly suggest you begin with #1.

Book of the Week!

Green Arrow 2 Cover

Not only is the Green Arrow my favourite of the current Rebirth titles, it’s also my favourite book of the week!

SDCC 2016: Warner Bros. Announces Hall H Line-up!

by jake108

We all knew Warner Bros. had reserved a space in Hall H’s busy schedule, but we didn’t know exactly what they were going to be showing, until now.

This year, Conan O’Brien will be moderating the two hour panel. Here’s what they’ve got planned in Hall H:

“Wonder Woman” stars Gal Gadot, Chris Pine and Connie Nielsen and director Patty Jenkins.

 

“Suicide Squad” stars Will Smith, Jared Leto, Margot Robbie, Joel Kinnaman, Viola Davis, Jai Courtney, Jay Hernandez, Adewale Akinnuoye-Agbaje, Scott Eastwood, Cara Delevingne, Adam Beach and Karen Fukuhara, along with writer/director David Ayer.

 

Director Chris McKay and star Will Arnett from “The LEGO Batman Movie.”

 

Charlie Hunnam, who plays the title role in Guy Ritchie’s epic actioner “King Arthur: Legend of the Sword,” from Warner Bros. and Village Roadshow Pictures.

 

Stars Tom Hiddleston, Brie Larson, John Goodman, Corey Hawkins and Jason Mitchell and director Jordan Vogt-Roberts of Warner Bros.’ and Legendary Pictures’ “Kong: Skull Island.”

 

Director David Yates with stars Eddie Redmayne, Katherine Waterston, Dan Fogler, Alison Sudol, Ezra Miller and Colin Farrell from “Fantastic Beasts and Where to Find Them.”

It’s a great line-up, but you may be scratching your head as to the lack of Justice League. Well, as there are every year inside of Hall H, Warner Bros. is bound to have some surprises in store. Ben Affleck has already stated he will be in attendance this year. So what can we expect? I’d say we can at least get a glimpse of some footage, along with an appearance of the full team on stage. You can find out more details about each film below:

“Wonder Woman”

“Wonder Woman” hits movie theaters around the world next summer when Gal Gadot returns as the title character in the epic action adventure from director Patty Jenkins. Before she was Wonder Woman, she was Diana, princess of the Amazons, trained to be an unconquerable warrior. Raised on a sheltered island paradise, when an American pilot crashes on their shores and tells of a massive conflict raging in the outside world, Diana leaves her home, convinced she can stop the threat. Fighting alongside man in a war to end all wars, Diana will discover her full powers…and her true destiny.

Joining Gadot in the international cast are Chris Pine, Connie Nielsen, Robin Wright, David Thewlis, Danny Huston, Elena Anaya, Ewen Bremner and Saïd Taghmaoui. Jenkins directs the film from a screenplay by Allan Heinberg and Geoff Johns, story by Zack Snyder & Allan Heinberg, based on characters from DC Entertainment. Wonder Woman was created by William Moulton Marston. The film is produced by Charles Roven, Zack Snyder, Deborah Snyder and Richard Suckle, with Rebecca Roven, Stephen Jones, Wesley Coller and Geoff Johns serving as executive producers. Warner Bros. Pictures presents, in association with RatPac-Dune Entertainment, an Atlas Entertainment/Cruel and Unusual production, “Wonder Woman.” The film is scheduled for release on June 2, 2017, and will be distributed worldwide by Warner Bros. Pictures, a Warner Bros. Entertainment Company. www.wonderwomanfilm.com

 

“Suicide Squad”

From director David Ayer comes “Suicide Squad,” starring Oscar nominee Will Smith, Oscar winner Jared Leto, Margot Robbie, Joel Kinnaman and Oscar nominee Viola Davis. It feels good to be bad… Assemble a team of the world’s most dangerous, incarcerated Super-Villains, provide them with the most powerful arsenal at the government’s disposal, and send them off on a mission to defeat an enigmatic, insuperable entity. U.S. intelligence officer Amanda Waller has determined only a secretly convened group of disparate, despicable individuals with next to nothing to lose will do. However, once they realize they weren’t picked to succeed but chosen for their patent culpability when they inevitably fail, will the Suicide Squad resolve to die trying, or decide it’s every man for himself?

Written and directed by Ayer based on the characters from DC, the film also stars Jai Courtney, Jay Hernandez, Adewale Akinnuoye-Agbaje, Ike Barinholtz, Scott Eastwood, Cara Delevingne, Adam Beach, and Karen Fukuhara in her feature film debut. It is produced by Charles Roven and Richard Suckle, with Zack Snyder, Deborah Snyder, Colin Wilson and Geoff Johns serving as executive producers. Warner Bros. Pictures presents, an Atlas Entertainment production, a film by David Ayer, “Suicide Squad.” The film will be distributed worldwide by Warner Bros. Pictures, a Warner Bros. Entertainment Company. The film opens worldwide in 3D, and in 2D, and in select IMAX 3D theaters August 5, 2016. “Suicide Squad” is rated PG-13 by the MPAA for sequences of violence and action throughout, disturbing behavior, suggestive content and language. www.suicidesquad.com

 

“The LEGO Batman Movie”

In the irreverent spirit of fun that made “The LEGO® Movie” a worldwide phenomenon, the self-described leading man of that ensemble – LEGO Batman – stars in his own big-screen adventure. But there are big changes brewing in Gotham, and if he wants to save the city from The Joker’s hostile takeover, Batman may have to drop the lone vigilante thing, try to work with others and maybe, just maybe, learn to lighten up.

Will Arnett reprises his starring role from “The LEGO Movie” as the voice of LEGO Batman, aka Bruce Wayne. Zach Galifianakis stars as The Joker; Michael Cera as the orphan Dick Grayson; Rosario Dawson as Barbara Gordon; and Ralph Fiennes as Alfred. “The LEGO® Batman Movie” is directed by Chris McKay and produced by Dan Lin, Roy Lee, Phil Lord and Christopher Miller. It is written by Seth Grahame-Smith and Chris McKenna & Erik Sommers, with additional screenplay material by Jared Stern & John Whittington, based on LEGO Construction Toys, in association with LEGO System AS. Chris McKay also serves as an executive producer, alongside Ryan Harris. A Warner Bros. Pictures presentation, “The LEGO Batman Movie” will open in theaters on February 10, 2017. It will be distributed by Warner Bros. Pictures, a Warner Bros. Entertainment Company. www.LegoBatman.com

 

“Kong: Skull Island”

Warner Bros. Pictures and Legendary Pictures’ “Kong: Skull Island” reimagines the origin of the mythic Kong in a compelling, original adventure from director Jordan Vogt-Roberts. In the film, a diverse team of explorers is brought together to venture deep into an uncharted island in the Pacific—as beautiful as it is treacherous—unaware that they’re crossing into the domain of the mythic Kong.

“Kong: Skull Island” stars Tom Hiddleston, Samuel L. Jackson, Oscar winner Brie Larson, John Goodman and John C. Reilly. The international ensemble cast also includes Tian Jing, Corey Hawkins, Jason Mitchell, John Ortiz, Thomas Mann, Shea Whigham, Toby Kebbell and Eugene Cordero. Vogt-Roberts directs the film from a screenplay by Max Borenstein, John Gatins, Dan Gilroy and Derek Connolly. “Kong: Skull Island” is produced by Legendary’s Thomas Tull and Jon Jashni with Mary Parent. The executive producers are Eric McLeod and Alex Garcia. Warner Bros. Pictures and Legendary Pictures Present a Legendary Pictures Production, “Kong: Skull Island.” The film will be released worldwide in 2D, 3D in select theatres, and IMAX March 10, 2017, from Warner Bros. Pictures, a Warner Bros. Entertainment Company.

 

“King Arthur: Legend of the Sword”

Acclaimed filmmaker Guy Ritchie brings his dynamic style to an original King Arthur epic, a sweeping fantasy action adventure starring Charlie Hunnam. Starring with Hunnam are Astrid Bergès-Frisbey, Oscar nominee Djimon Hounsou, Aidan Gillen, Oscar nominee Jude Law, and Eric Bana. Ritchie directs the film from a screenplay by Joby Harold and Guy Ritchie & Lionel Wigram, story by Joby Harold. The film is produced by Oscar winner Akiva Goldsman, Joby Harold, Tory Tunnell, Lionel Wigram, Guy Ritchie and Steve Clark-Hall. David Dobkin and Bruce Berman are executive producers. Warner Bros. Pictures presents, in association with Village Roadshow Pictures, a Weed Road/Safehouse Pictures Production, a Ritchie/Wigram Production. Slated for release on March 24, 2017, the film will be distributed in North America by Warner Bros. Pictures, a Warner Bros. Entertainment Company, and in select territories by Village Roadshow Pictures. www.kingarthurmovie.com

 

“Fantastic Beasts and Where to Find Them”

“Fantastic Beasts and Where to Find Them” is an all-new adventure returning us to the wizarding world created by J.K. Rowling. Academy Award winner Eddie Redmayne stars in the central role of wizarding world magizoologist Newt Scamander, under the direction of David Yates, who helmed the last four “Harry Potter” blockbusters. The film opens in 1926 as Newt Scamander has just completed a global excursion to find and document an extraordinary array of magical creatures. Arriving in New York for a brief stopover, he might have come and gone without incident…were it not for a No-Maj (American for Muggle) named Jacob, a misplaced magical case, and the escape of some of Newt’s fantastic beasts, which could spell trouble for both the wizarding and No-Maj worlds.

Starring with Redmayne are Katherine Waterston, Dan Fogler, Alison Sudol, Ezra Miller, two-time Oscar nominee Samantha Morton, Oscar winner Jon Voight, Ron Perlman, Carmen Ejogo, Jenn Murray, Faith Wood-Blagrove and Colin Farrell. The film marks the screenwriting debut of J.K. Rowling, whose beloved Harry Potter books were adapted into the top-grossing film franchise of all time. Her script was inspired by the Hogwarts textbook Fantastic Beasts and Where to Find Them, written by her character Newt Scamander. The film reunites a number of people from the “Harry Potter” features, including producers David Heyman, J.K. Rowling, Steve Kloves and Lionel Wigram. Warner Bros. Pictures has slated “Fantastic Beasts and Where to Find Them” for worldwide release in 2D and 3D in select theatres and IMAX on November 18, 2016. www.fantasticbeasts.com

 

Sounds like a great time!

Geekscape Comics: Weekly Reads!

by Karson

👎 – Skip, read at your own risk
👌 – Okay, not great, not bad, you might find something to like here
💪 – Great, highly recommended

DC

We have a quiet week in the DC Universe with Rebirth taking a week off. I didn’t jump into anything but the latest issue of Dark Knight III…

👌 Dark Knight III – The Master Race #5

I haven’t been a big fan of Dark Knight III, however, this issue is probably my favourite so far. Much like Nolan’s Dark Knight Rises, this doesn’t feel like it’s a Batman story, in fact, it feels much more like Snyder’s Man Of Steel. I wouldn’t say the story is stronger in this issue than the previous ones, but it was just a lot of fun seeing Kubert’s take on all the different characters of the DC Universe (Aquaman, Flash, etc.). I don’t think this book is ever going to earn must read status, or be on a lot of Best of 2016 lists, but there is some enjoyment to be had if you go into it with an open mind.

Marvel

Taking a much needed break from Civil War II…

👌 Black Panther #3

This is a title that lends itself to being read in trade. This book goes much deeper than what’s on the surface and, to be honest, I haven’t given Coates’ writing the time and thought it deserves. Even if you aren’t analyzing all the great writing, Stelfreeze’s stellar art ensures you are going to enjoy this title from issue to issue.

👌 Spider-Man #5

This might be the book with the most obvious tie in to Civil War II and yet it isn’t included as a Civil War II book!? What’s going on at Marvel!? The ending leaves us thinking that Spider-Man’s identity is going to be playing a crucial role as Civil War II develops. Spider-Man continues to be enjoyable read but nothing more. Seriously though, I saw more Civil War II tie in with this than any other Marvel Civil War II tie-in to date.

👌 Uncanny X-Men #9

The Archangel portion of Apocalypse Wars continues in Uncanny X-Men #9. From big action pieces to basic character expressions, I’m really starting to dig Ken Lashley’s art. Bunn’s writing is solid. Remember, you can ignore the Apocalypse Wars logo on these books, as there is essentially zero overlap. If you like Magneto, Mystique, Psylocke, Sabretooth, or Archangel this is the book for you, if you’re into other X-Men you’ll probably want to look elsewhere.

👌 Extraordinary X-Men #11

The X-Men continue to battle Apocalypse’s new horsemen in Extraordinary X-Men #11. I pretty much have the same feelings towards this book as Uncanny. If you’re a fan of Ramos, you’re going to love his art in this. Lemire’s writing is pretty tight. It’s just a matter if you are interested in the characters or not. We have Storm, Iceman, Jean Grey, Magik, Logan, you interested in them, this book is for you, otherwise, you’ll want to look at a different X-Men title.

💪 Captain America – Steve Rogers #2

Honestly, I probably like this series more because of how many people are complaining about it. In a time where Marvel’s mainstay characters are all being replaced, I’m not going to complain about any Steve Rogers story. This issue explains what happened to Roger’s to bring him to the side of Hyrda and I’m digging it. When all is said and done, I think this is going to be a great Captain America story.

Image Comics

💪 Outcast Vol. 2 and Vol. 3

If you are a long-time reader you’d know we discussed the first volume a few months ago. Despite finding it confusing initially, by the end of the volume I was into the book and wanted more… I just never went and got more. Well, after getting all caught up on Cinemax’s Outcast, I couldn’t wait to find out what happens next so I went and read the next two volumes. These books are a lot of fun and are full of plenty of “Holy F” moments. If you are watching Outcast (and you should be!) and want more, you’ll love the comics, if you just want to watch the story unfold on television too, I don’t blame you. Both are great!

Book of the Week

Nothing really stood out this week, so I have to give it to Outcast! Whether it’s the comics, the television show, or both, you have to check this series out!

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That’s all for this week, come back next week to discuss the rebirth of The Justice League, more Civil War II, and a bunch of other great comics!

Hey, who else is digging the new Blink-182 album!?

Geekscape Comics: Weekly Reads!

by Karson

👎 – Skip, read at your own risk
👌 – Okay, not great, not bad, you might find something to like here
💪 – Great, highly recommended

A lot of great reads this past week, most of which weren’t from the big 2 publishers.

DC

DC’s Rebirth takes a week off but we did see the continuation of Action Comics and Detective Comics, as well as #1’s of Aquaman, The Flash, and Wonder Woman. All these stories are solid but none of them have earned must-read status.

👌 Action Comics #958
This is perhaps the most intimidating book if you are new to the DC Universe. We have a new Superman, a Lex Luthor Superman, and a Clark Kent who apparently isn’t a Superman. However, not a lot of that matters this issue because it’s mostly one great big battle with Doomsday!

👎 Detective Comics #935
In my opinion, this is the least interesting of DC’s new offerings. This book in particular starts out with something super exciting but then pulls the carpet out from beneath us and leaves us with a relatively uninteresting story that is struggling to find any identity.

👌 Aquaman #1
This may be my favourite of DC’s releases this week. Walker’s art on this is stellar. I was worried an Aquaman title could get weighed down by too much politics but so far Abnett is balancing the politics with equal parts action. The action sequences at the end of this issue were gorgeous, as the characters battle isn’t separated by panels but by the way the water flows.

👌 The Flash #1
This may also be my favourite of DC’s releases this week, I just can’t decide! Williamson is really focusing on the theme of despite the Flash’s speed, he isn’t able to be everywhere at once, and therefore can’t help everyone. For me this premise is interesting enough to explore for a few issues, but much like last week’s Batman #1, this book takes a twist at the end that leaves me wondering what the heck is going to happen next!

👎 Wonder Woman #1
It may not be a popular opinion but for whatever reason, this book just hasn’t worked for me yet. I don’t think it’s any fault of the creators, Rucka and Sharp, I think it’s just my unfamiliarity with the character of Wonder Woman. There are times during this issue where I feel completely lost and the story isn’t interesting enough to drive me to do any further research.

Marvel

More Civil Snore…

👎 Captain America – Sam Wilson #10
Another title that I read because of the Civil War II stamp on it, another title that I’m let down by. Aside from Rhode’s funeral, I’m unsure how this ties in at all. Don’t spend your time reading Spencer’s Marvel stuff, checkout The Fix instead!

👎 Civil War II – Choosing Sides #1
This book isn’t worth your money. I don’t have anything else to say.

Power Man and Iron Fist Cover
💪 Power Man and Iron Fist #5
Is it any coincidence that one of Marvel’s only books that isn’t a part of Civil War II is awesome? The fifth issue serves as more of a transition from the last arc to the next one. If you didn’t read this issue, you wouldn’t miss much but there are enough laughs in here to make it worth while.

Archie Comics

Archie Cover
💪 Archie #9
If a comic book has Mark Waid’s name on it, you ain’t going to regret reading it. I’ve discussed how great Archie is in previous Weekly Reads and the series continues to gain momentum. Archie Comics is doing such a great job with it’s IP right now, I don’t think they’re making anything that isn’t awesome!

Dark Horse

Dept H Cover
💪 Dept. H #3
Another title I’ve gushed over previously. The comic is as good as ever. This is a must read if you’re looking for a non superhero comic. Instead of gushing over the issue, I’ll talk about how awesome of a moment it was to see Cullen Bunn (writer of Harrow County, Uncanny X-Men) wrote into the letter page. Note: I only read the letter page of books that I love. Guys, what else do I have to say, this book is a must read! Matt’s writing is awesome, his love for comics comes through the pages, Sharlene’s watercolours are unlike anything else I’ve seen in comics. Love, love, love this book!

BOOM! Studios

Mighty-Morphin-Power-Rangers-004-Cover
💪 Mighty Morphin’ Power Rangers #4
This series is better than I ever could have imagined. Perhaps I shouldn’t be giving it strong status because if you aren’t a Power Rangers fan this might not be up your alley, but I think you’d be surprised. Sure, this is a Power Rangers story but the themes of team building, trust, insecurity are something anyone can relate to. If you’re a Power Rangers fan, this book is a no brainer, if not, I think you still might be able to find something to love here.

Geekscape Interviews: We Chat With DC / CW Composer Blake Neely!

by jake108

Recently, I was able to get in touch with Blake Neely, composer of all of your favorite DCTV shows running on the CW. From Arrow to DC’s Legends of Tomorrow, Blake Neely has scored it all. By now, you’ve heard your favorite musical numbers on Supergirl, The Flash, Arrow, and Legends of Tomorrow. Now, here’s what Neely has to say on shaping the iconic sound behind the DC Universe.

Arrow 410

How were you approached to take on your first DCTV series? Were there any apprehensions? 

I’ve worked with Greg Berlanti for 14 years, from his first show Everwood. In 2012, he handed me a script to Arrow and said, “This year, we are doing something a bit different.” I had no idea this would be the beginning of an onslaught of superhero shows in the DC Universe of iconic characters. My only apprehensions were to do the Green Arrow character justice, since the responsibility of musically representing such a decades-old character was a bit intimidating for a composer.

How well versed were you in the Green Arrow lore when you signed up Arrow? Did your previous knowledge of the character change your approach to the project in way that was different from a show like The Mentalist? 

I was always a DC Comics appreciator. Aquaman was the first comic I bought as a child, and for some reason the DC characters always resonated with me the most. Whether it was Aquaman, Batman, Superman, The Flash or any number of others, I always gravitated toward DC. However, while I knew of the Green Arrow, I hadn’t followed him. Greg’s script was my introduction, and I was forever hooked. My approach was very different than approaching any other show. This was a character steeped in mythology and fan-base, not just a new character (like Patrick Jane of The Mentalist). But as a composer, my approach wasn’t different, in so much as I like to write something appropriate for any character and hopefully make it stick to the visual. The only difference in approach was that this had quite a bit of fan expectancy to it.

Could you briefly walk me through the process of scoring an episode for any of the DCTV shows you work on? 

I generally get a week from receiving the final cut of an episode to its final mix (which is about 2 days before it airs on TV). My process on a first (pilot) episode is to go into a dark room, surround myself with images of the character, and attempt to capture that image musically. I write a suite of ideas, sounds, and themes and then hope it sticks to the image once the show is filmed. But on a weekly basis, I watch the episode and approach each scene dramatically with music that fits the scene. My goal is always to enhance the story-telling and support the action (whether emotional or brutal or cerebral) with the music, while trying to somehow stay in the background so that the audience only subliminally appreciates the music, and not bring music to the forefront. Otherwise, they are taken out of the story.

The Flash 221 Tombstone

The Flash has a very unique sound to it. What influenced the music behind some of Barry’s most emotional scenes? 

Barry Allen is a very different character from Oliver Queen. He is a scientist, a bit awkward, brilliant, and later superhuman. What I wanted to achieve musically was multiple layers. Whereas Oliver Queen is more dark, brooding and immediate, Barry is more complex. The layering and subtext in the music helps in his emotionality. I still use similar orchestration with these characters, whether it be simple piano or orchestra, but there are more layers to Barry. In my mind, as heroes, Arrow gets a more upfront sound with aggression and realism, while The Flash has a forward-momentum and almost fragile heroic sound. I come to this from the idea that Arrow always knows he will win, while The Flash is much more vulnerable when he is called to action. It’s extremely esoteric, because it’s just a bunch of music notes flying around, but this is always the approach.

the flash 409

The Flash also pays homage to a number of DC Comics villains, some of which aren’t known to mainstream audiences. How do you go about composing a character theme for a reoccurring villain, like Wentworth Miller’s Captain Cold? 

Greg gave me excellent direction on Captain Cold. He said, “This is a great love affair. Cold and Flash will always be chasing each other.” For whatever reason this made me develop a long arch sort of theme for Cold. The harmonies are never resolved. The melody is always reaching and expanding. Never reaching full consummation. With each new villain that is introduced on The Flash or Arrow, I like to sit back and think about the mythology, research their importance, talk with the producers about their desires for the character, and then attempt to make an appropriate theme. Some can sustain a simple sound “theme,” while others (like Cold or Ra’s al Guhl or Vandal Savage) require a full-blown theme and sound world to do their evil business in. 

Legends 108 Sara

Legends of Tomorrow season one was unique in that we essentially saw a different time period with every episode. Did you ever have to adjust your approach or musical cues depending on what time period the heroes were in?

I did this a few times in the season. The most apparent were Russia and the Wild West. But for the most part, I felt like music should be the glue to the show we were in. Yes, we were in 1975 or 2147 or the 50s, but we were still watching LEGENDS. I felt it important to only provide a flavor or the time but let the audience rely on costumes and sets for the actual time period. This is a band of “time pirates,” as I early on began referring to them, so we need to musically stay with the team.

Has the cast and/or crew for any one of the DCTV shows you’ve worked on sat in on a scoring session? If so, what was the experience like? 

I’ve never had the cast at the scoring or even my studio. However, I have done the opposite: I’ve visited the sets and even gone to dinner with the cast to get to know them. It’s not helpful to the writing of the episodes, but it’s helpful to the collaborative nature of these shows. We are all building a huge universe together. Why not know your counterparts? This has even led to a possible collaboration with Stephen Amell on a side project. I would love for the cast to come to a scoring session someday, but with shooting 8 days a week, I have doubts that they can possibly ever bear the time.

For anyone who’s looking at you as having their dream job, what advice would you give them? 

Never give up. I grew up in Paris, Texas without the Internet or any possible connection to Hollywood. And I made it. I’m doing exactly what I dreamed of! Nothing is impossible if you put your mind to it.

FlashArrow

What persuades you to keep scoring DC television shows? What are the unique benefits to working in TV? 

DC and Greg Berlanti have been incredibly loyal, incredibly supportive and wildly appreciative of my work. Why would I ever deny a chance to work on a new character or project with them? The benefits of working in TV, to me, are the ability to work again and again with these characters. If I begin an idea in Episode 1, I can continue and evolve it through to Episode 23 and beyond. It’s a never-ending sequel. With film, you get one, maybe two, chances to evolve your ideas. With TV, you get episodes and seasons upon seasons to continue your ideas. It moves way too quickly, and you have to be very prolific, but it’s very fulfilling to have the time with these storylines.

One of my favorite musical cues/themes are your Nanda Parbat themes that pop up every now and then on Arrow. How did go about crafting a score that fits that very unique setting? 

Those were a lot of fun. I absolutely loved the arrival of Ra’s al Guhl. It sent me into an Eastern style of music harmonies and scales and instrumentation. This caused an evolution and exploration of sound that might capture the modern yet other-worldly feeling of Nanda Parbat, Nyssa, Ra’s and the ninjas. One of my favorite musicians in the world, Chris Bleth, brought me a wealth of treasures in duduks, dizis, neys, and other instruments, which we incorporated into the score. This was enhanced further by the haunting vocals of my friend, Sherri Chung, who was introduced during Oliver’s “death scene” with Ra’s in Ep 308 “The Climb.” It just grew from there with ethnic percussion, thick soundscapes and orchestration that hopefully made the audience feel like they were in another world far from Starling City.

Legends of Tomorrow 106 Banner

Have any actors commented on their individual themes? 

Yes. Stephen Amell was very vocal in his appreciation of what I do. And there was an amazing Tweet from Grant Gustin about my score to one of the episodes. Oh, and Jimmy Olsen (Mehcad Brooks) said some incredibly nice things about the Supergirl score. But my best “theme” moment was when my son was playing Lego Batman. He said “Dad, come up and see this.” I went to his room, and he had just opened a new level. He played and Lego Batman walked into a door and we saw Lego Green Arrow, and all of a sudden my Arrow theme started playing. That was a moment when I realized that what I was doing was creating a small iconic stamp on these characters.

Some of the most iconic musical scores are from television. Do you have any peers whose music you enjoy immensely? 

It’s a really enjoyable thing to say that my peers and a few of my heroes are also my friends. We are appreciative of what each other are doing, but it’s nice when it remains non-competitive. Do I have favorites? Of course. Will I divulge? Absolutely not!

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How does it feel to be setting the tone for the DCTV television landscape?

It feels amazing, but it feels incredibly heavy. I would never say that it’s a burden, because that is a negative term. But it feels like carrying a torch that will be handed off again in the future to another runner. For now, I need to carry the torch as high as it has ever been raised and hope it doesn’t get blown out by the wind. The success of these shows, the fanbase of these shows, and the expectancy of these shows is immense. Far bigger than myself. I must do all that I can to uphold the legacy, protect the mythology, and never denegrate the importance of this world that was created way before I was. I’m up for the challenge every day, but it never escapes me how important it can be.

Is there any DC character you’d like to see appear on any of the DCTV shows?

Aquaman. Please. First comic I bought. For whatever reason, a lifetime favorite.

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What’s the best story you have regarding anything DCTV-related in your years working with the respective shows? 

My favorite story goes back to the beginning. Greg Berlanti and I had long discussions about what he envisioned for the sound of ARROW. I went away for a few weeks and wrote and wrote and wrote ideas. I developed themes for the show and then brought him to my studio and nervously played the “Oliver Queen Suite.” After hearing it, he stood up and said “Great. Perfect. I love it.” And as he left my studio and the door was closing behind him, I heard him whistling the theme. I thought to myself, “Success.”

SDCC ’16: Warner Bros. Television Announces Their Panels and Times!

by jake108

Some of the most fantastic panels have taken place inside of Hall H on Saturday night’s these past few years. However, we’re in for a change as it seems DCTV is doing away with our Hall H after dark parties. Instead, Warner Bros. Television has opted for owning Ballroom 20 for what seems to be the majority of Saturday. While this sounds great too, it’s also worth mentioning that Ballroom 20 does not sit nearly as many people has Hall H does. This may spell trouble for anyone looking to attend any one of DCTV’s panels, including Gotham and in addition to iZombie.

What’s also troubling here is that DCTV panels seem to be going on during the daytime on Saturday. This means DC fans may have to choose between a potential Justice League panel and their favorite DCTV show.

That being said, WBTV seems to have spreads its wings this year, even hosting a panels on Sunday! Check these listings and let us know where you’re heading this SDCC!

 

WEDNESDAY, JULY 20

“6:00-10:00 p.m. Comic-Con and Warner Bros. Television proudly continue our annual Preview Night tradition, with exclusive world premiere screenings of the pilot episodes of five of the most highly anticipated series of the 2016-17 television season — Riverdale, Powerless, People of Earth, Frequency and Time After Time — as well as a brand new episode of Teen Titans Go! and the debut of Justice League Action. Ballroom 20”

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THURSDAY, JULY 21

“10:15-11:15 a.m. Teen Titans Go! Video Presentation and Q&A — When there’s trouble, you know who to call…Teen Titans! When you want an awesome time at Comic-Con, you also know who to call…Teen Titans!!! Join a Titan-sized panel featuring producers Aaron Horvath (MAD) and Pete Michail (Space Racers) along with voice cast members Greg Cipes, Scott Menville, Khary Payton and Tara Strong for a screening and Q&A covering your favorite animated series. Produced by Warner Bros. Animation and based on characters from DC, Teen Titans Go! airs Thursdays at 6/5c on Cartoon Network. Teen Titans Go!: Season 3 Part 2 will be released on DVD on August 23. Become a fan of the show on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/TeenTitansGo, and follow Cartoon Network on Twitter at @CartoonNetwork. Room 6DE

 

12:00-1:00 p.m. Justice League Action Video Presentation and Q&A — The world’s greatest Super Heroes return to television in Justice League Action, an all-new quarter-hour animated series. Batman, Superman and Wonder Woman lead the DC Super Heroes against their most infamous foes in adventures packed with relentless thrills, fun and action. No need to wait for the good stuff to start; each 11-minute episode jumps in with lightning-paced action and heroics. Whether defending the Earth, facing invaders from space, or battling the bizarre forces of magic, the always-rotating team of Justice League heroes, are up to any challenge. Join producers Butch Lukic (Justice League), Alan Burnett (Batman: The Animated Series) and voice cast members Kevin Conroy (Batman: The Animated Series) and Diedrich Bader (Batman: The Brave and The Bold) for a Q&A and exclusive sneak peek at this highly anticipated new series. Produced by Warner Bros. Animation and based on characters from DC, Justice League Action is coming soon to Cartoon Network. Follow Cartoon Network on Twitter at @CartoonNetwork. Room 25ABC”

FRIDAY, JULY 22

“10:00-11:00 a.m. Inside The Big Bang Theory Writers’ Room — Join The Big Bang Theory writers as they return to San Diego to take you inside the biggest moments of season nine and behind-the-scenes of TVs #1 comedy! From the wedding to the baby news to Shamy’s big night, find out what goes into making the hit series each week, and how the writers keep things fresh after more than 200 episodes! Join the show’s executive producers and writers as they take you inside the writers’ room for a lively discussion and special video presentation. From Chuck Lorre Productions, Inc. in association with Warner Bros. Television, The Big Bang Theory returns for season 10 on September 19, airing Mondays at 8/7c on CBS. The Big Bang Theory: The Complete Ninth Season will be released on Blu-ray™ and DVD on September 13. Become a fan of the show on Facebook at www.facebook.com/TheBigBangTheory and follow the show on Twitter @BigBangTheory. Ballroom 20‪

 

12:30-1:30 p.m. The 100 Special Video Presentation and Q&A — Following the climatic events of the season finale, join The 100 as the critically acclaimed series returns to San Diego for its annual appearance at Comic-Con. ALIE has been defeated, and The City of Light destroyed, but The 100’s victory is bittersweet as a new threat comes into focus. With the clock ticking and Earth’s radiation levels rising, our heroes must put aside their differences to save what remains of humanity. Will The 100 go quietly into that good night, or will they find hope and faith in each other, as they face their darkest chapter yet? Be among the first to find out what’s in store for season four. Join us for a special video presentation followed by a Q&A with series stars and producers. From Bonanza Productions Inc. in association with Alloy Entertainment and Warner Bros. Television, The 100 returns midseason with all-new episodes on The CW. The 100: The Complete Third Season will be available on DVD on July 19. Become a fan on Facebook at www.facebook.com/CWThe100, and follow the show on Twitter at @CWThe100. Ballroom 20

 

2:00-2:30 p.m. People of Earth Pilot Screening and Q&A — From Emmy® winners Conan O’Brien (Conan) and Greg Daniels (The Office), and creator David Jenkins comes People of Earth, a half-hour single-camera comedy series about a support group for alien abductees. Join series star Wyatt Cenac (The Daily Show), co-executive producer David Jenkins and executive producer Greg Daniels for a screening of the pilot episode followed by a Q&A. People of Earth centers on skeptical journalist Ozzie Graham (Cenac) who investigates a support group to write about its members’ supposed alien encounters. The more he digs into their oddball claims, however, the more he realizes a semblance of truth to their stories and, possibly, even signs that point to his own alien abduction. The onetime outsider now finds himself a part of this eclectic group of misfits, all the while struggling with the idea of knowing that life could exist beyond our world. Produced by Conaco in association with Warner Horizon Television, People of Earth is coming this fall to TBS. Room 6BCF

 

2:30-3:00 p.m. Powerless Pilot Screening and Q&A — It’s a Super Hero’s world. We just live in it. Join cast members Vanessa Hudgens (High School Musical), Danny Pudi (Community), Alan Tudyk (Suburgatory) along with executive producer Ben Queen (A to Z) and executive producer/director Michael Patrick Jann (Reno 911) for a screening of the pilot episode and Q&A covering the first comedy series set in the DC universe. Powerless is the story of Emily (Hudgens), a young insurance adjuster specializing in regular-people coverage against damage caused when Super Heroes and Super Villains treat the city like their own personal battleground. Taking care of insurance needs one by one, Emily and her team of co-workers might not have any superpowers but they are out to make a difference in people’s lives and prove that you don’t need to have powers to be powerful! From Warner Bros. Television and based on characters from DC, Powerless premieres midseason on NBC. Become a fan of Powerless on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/NBCPowerless, and follow the show on Twitter at @NBCPowerless. Room 6BCF

 

5:30-6:30 p.m. iZOMBIE Special Video Presentation and Q&A — Television’s only Zom-Com-Rom-Dram, returns to San Diego for their third appearance at Comic-Con. After experiencing the heart-pounding season two finale, be among the first to get the scoop on what’s in store for season three! Now that Clive is in the know about zombies, how will his dynamic with Liv change? With Ravi’s cure robbing Blaine of his memories, what will Major decide to do with his borrowed time? Will Peyton continue her efforts to take down crime lord, Mr. Boss? And will Vivian Stoll, new owner of Max Rager, succeed in making Seattle its zombie headquarters? Join us for a special video presentation followed by a Q&A with series stars as well as executive producers Rob Thomas (Veronica Mars) and Diane Ruggiero-Wright (Veronica Mars). From Bonanza Productions Inc. in association with Spondoolie Productions and Warner Bros. Television and based upon characters created by Chris Roberson and Michael Allred for Vertigo from DC Entertainment, iZOMBIE returns midseason with all-new episodes on The CW. iZOMBIE: The Complete Second Season will be released on Blu-ray™ and DVD on July 12. Become a fan of iZombie on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/cwizombie and follow the show on Twitter at @CWiZombie. Ballroom 20″

SATURDAY, JULY 23

“‪11:00-11:45 a.m. The Vampire Diaries Special Video Presentation and Q&A — The cast and creative team behind The Vampire Diaries return to San Diego, for an exciting eighth appearance at Comic-Con! Series stars will join executive producers on stage for a video screening and Q&A session. From Bonanza Productions Inc., Outerbanks Entertainment and Alloy Entertainment in association with Warner Bros. Television and CBS Television Studios, The Vampire Diaries returns Friday, October 21, at 8/7c on The CW, and The Vampire Diaries: The Complete Seventh Season will be released on Blu-ray™ combo pack, DVD and DIGITAL HD on August 16. Become a fan of The Vampire Diaries on Facebook at www.facebook.com/thevampirediaries, and follow the show on Twitter at @cwtvd. Ballroom 20

 

‪12:00-12:45 p.m. Blindspot Special Video Presentation and Q&A — Following the shocking first season finale, join Blindspot as the # 1 new series on broadcast TV from the 2015-16 season returns to San Diego for its second appearance at Comic-Con! Sullivan Stapleton and Jaimie Alexander star in this one-hour action thriller from Berlanti Productions and Quinn’s House, Inc. in association with Warner Bros. Television. Stapleton stars as hardened FBI agent Kurt Weller, who is drawn into a complex conspiracy when a mysterious woman, with no memories of her past, is found in Times Square, her body completely covered in intricate cryptic tattoos. As Weller and his teammates at the FBI — Edgar Reade (Rob Brown), Tasha Zapata (Audrey Esparza) and the tech-savvy Patterson (Ashley Johnson) — begin to investigate the veritable road map of Jane Doe’s tattoos, they are drawn into a high-stakes underworld that twists and turns through a labyrinth of secrets and revelations — with the information exposing a larger conspiracy of crime, while bringing her closer to discovering the truth about her identity. Join us for a special video presentation followed by a Q&A with series stars Sullivan Stapleton, Jaimie Alexander, Rob Brown, Audrey Esparza, Ashley Johnson and writer/executive producer Martin Gero. Blindspot returns to NBC for its second season on September 14 at 10/9c, before moving to its regular time period of Wednesdays at 8/7c the following week. Blindspot: The Complete First Season will be released on DVD and Blu-ray™ on August 2. Become a fan of Blindspot on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/NBCBlindspot and follow the show on Twitter @NBCBlindspot. Indigo Ballroom

 

‪‪12:50-1:25 p.m.‪ The Originals Special Video Presentation and Q&A — The Originals returns for a fourth season with more supernatural intrigue, romance and bloodshed in The Big Easy. Join executive producers and series stars for a special video presentation followed by a Q&A. From Bonanza Productions Inc. in association with My So-Called Company, Alloy Entertainment, Warner Bros. Television and CBS Television Studios, The Originals will air midseason on The CW. The Originals: The Complete Third Season will be released on Blu-ray™ and DVD on September 20. Become a fan of The Originals on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/cworiginals and follow the show on Twitter at @cworiginals. Indigo Ballroom

 

1:30-2:05 p.m. Lucifer Special Video Presentation and Q&A — All Hell will break loose when Lucifer returns to heat things up in San Diego. Indulge your deepest desires and be among the first to get the scoop on what’s sure to be a devilishly fun second season! Join us for a sizzling sneak peek at season two, followed by a Q&A with series stars as well as executive producers Joe Henderson (White Collar) and Ildy Modrovich (CSI: Miami). From Jerry Bruckheimer Television in association with Warner Bros. Television and based upon characters created by Neal Gaiman, Sam Kieth and Mike Dringenberg for Vertigo from DC Entertainment, Lucifer returns September 19, airing Mondays 9/8c on FOX. Lucifer: The Complete First Season will be released on DVD on August 23. Become a fan on Facebook at www.facebook.com/LuciferonFOX, and follow the show on Twitter at @LuciferonFOX. Indigo Ballroom

 

2:10-3:00 p.m. Gotham Special Video Presentation and Q&A — Gotham’s origin story continues to unfold, and as the show enters its third season, the stakes will be higher than ever! Super Villains are continuing to push Gotham City toward the brink, and while Jim Gordon remains at the forefront of the fight against crime in this dangerously corrupt city, how far will he go to save Gotham? Throughout season two, Gordon’s moral compass wavered more than ever, creating both personal and professional dilemmas in his life as villains emerged from the city’s darkest places, including Arkham Asylum’s secret experimental lab, Indian Hill. Bruce Wayne also began to unravel some of Gotham City’s — and his family’s — deepest secrets, leading him to discover that Wayne Enterprises could be behind some very dangerous schemes poised to tear the city apart. Be among the first to see what’s in store for season three as Gotham returns to Comic-Con with a special video presentation, followed by a Q&A with series stars and producers. From Warner Bros. Television and based on characters from DC, Gotham returns September 19 with all-new episodes airing Mondays at 8/7c on FOX. Gotham: The Complete Second Season will be available on Blu-ray™ and DVD on August 16. Become a fan on Facebook at www.facebook.com/GOTHAMonFOX, and follow the show on Twitter at @Gotham. Indigo Ballroom

 

3:30-4:15 p.m. Supergirl Special Video Presentation and Q&A — Supergirl will be returning for more supercharged adventures in the show’s new home on The CW this fall! Wondering who’s in that pod, or what will be bringing Superman to National City? Join the series’ cast and creative team for a special video presentation, followed by a Q&A where they’ll discuss these season two hot topics and more! From Berlanti Productions in association with Warner Bros. Television and based on characters from DC, Supergirl’s second season will premiere Monday, October 10, at 8/7c on The CW. Supergirl: The Complete First Season will be released on DVD and Blu-ray™ on August 9. Follow the show on Twitter at @TheCWSupergirl. Ballroom 20

 

4:15-5:00 p.m. DC’s Legends of Tomorrow Special Video Presentation and Q&A — After saving the world — and all of time — from the immortal madman Vandal Savage, then bidding farewell to two of their fellow comrades, Hawkman and Hawkgirl, the Legends received an unexpected visit from a mysterious new ally, Rex Tyler, who tasked the team with a brand new mission. What that mission is, how the Justice Society of America will factor in and who will be aboard the Waverider when The CW’s Super Hero team-up series returns for its second season are questions that the cast and creative team will seek to answer when they descend upon San Diego for their second visit to Comic-Con. From Berlanti Productions in association with Warner Bros. Television and based on characters from DC, DC’s Legends of Tomorrow returns Thursday, October 13, at 8/7c on The CW. DC’s Legends of Tomorrow: The Complete First Season will be released on Blu-ray™ combo pack, DVD and Digital HD on August 23. Become a fan of DC’s Legends of Tomorrow on Facebook at www.facebook.com/CWLegendsofTomorrow and follow the show on Twitter at @TheCW_Legends. Ballroom 20

 

5:00-5:45 p.m. The Flash Special Video Presentation and Q&A — Parallel universes…and doppelgangers…and man-sharks, oh my! The second season of The CW’s highest-rated series had more than its fair share of twists and turns, but none compared to Barry Allen’s jaw-dropping decision to go back in time and save his mother from his arch-nemesis, Reverse-Flash, a decision that called the entire timeline into question. But fear not, fans, you won’t have to wait until the fall to start getting answers to some of your most pressing questions, as the cast and creative team behind the show make their annual appearance at Comic-Con to begin giving fans insight into the show’s highly anticipated third season. From Bonanza Productions Inc. in association with Berlanti Productions and Warner Bros. Television, and based on characters from DC, The Flash returns Tuesday, October 4, at 8/7c on The CW. The Flash: The Complete Second Season will be released on Blu-ray™ combo pack, DVD and Digital HD on September 6. Become a fan of The Flash on Facebook at www.facebook.com/CWTheFlash and follow the show on Twitter at @CW_TheFlash. Ballroom 20

 

5:45-6:30 p.m. Arrow Special Video Presentation and Q&A — In the face of worldwide nuclear destruction at the hands of the maniacal mystic known as Damien Darhk, Oliver Queen (aka Green Arrow) united Star City with a message of hope that allowed him to vanquish the season four Big Bad once and for all. However, our heroes’ triumph came at a cost, and the future of Team Arrow was left hanging in the balance. Now, as the show takes aim on season five, Oliver will set out to save his city from a new threat — one which he personally created — as both the newly appointed Mayor of Star City and as the Green Arrow. Returning to San Diego Comic-Con for the fifth consecutive year, the cast and creators of the hit CW series will be on-hand for a lively conversation surrounding the upcoming season. From Bonanza Productions Inc. in association with Berlanti Productions and Warner Bros. Television, and based on characters from DC, Arrow returns Wednesday, October 5, at 8/7c on The CW. Arrow: The Complete Fourth Season will be released on Blu-ray™ combo pack, DVD and Digital HD on August 30. Become a fan of Arrow on Facebook at www.facebook.com/CWArrow and follow the show on Twitter at @CW_Arrow. Ballroom 20

 

6:30 p.m.-7:20 p.m. Riverdale Pilot Screening and Q&A — Things aren’t always what you expect in Riverdale. Based on the iconic characters from Archie Comics and produced by Berlanti Productions (The Flash, Supergirl, Blindspot, Everwood), this one-hour drama is a bold, subversive take on the surreality of small-town life. As a new school year begins, the town of Riverdale is reeling from the recent, tragic death of high school golden boy Jason Blossom — and nothing feels the same. Archie Andrews (KJ Apa) is still the all-American teen, but the summer’s events made him realize that he wants to pursue a career in music — and not follow in his dad’s footsteps — despite the sudden end of his forbidden relationship with Riverdale’s young music teacher, Ms. Grundy (Sarah Habel). Which means Archie doesn’t have anyone who will mentor him — certainly not singer Josie McCoy (Ashleigh Murray), who is only focused on her band, the soon-to-be-world-famous Pussycats. It’s all weighing heavily on Archie’s mind — as is his fractured friendship with budding writer and fellow classmate Jughead Jones (Cole Sprouse). Meanwhile, girl-next-door Betty Cooper (Lili Reinhart) is anxious to see her crush Archie after being away all summer, but she’s not quite ready to reveal her true feelings to him. And Betty’s nerves — which are hardly soothed by her overbearing mother, Alice (Mädchen Amick) — aren’t the only thing holding her back. When a new student, Veronica Lodge (Camila Mendes), arrives in town from New York with her mother Hermione (Marisol Nichols), there’s an undeniable spark between she and Archie, even though Veronica doesn’t want to risk her new friendship with Betty by making a play for Archie. And then there’s Cheryl Blossom (Madelaine Petsch)… Riverdale’s Queen Bee is happy to stir up trouble amongst Archie, Betty, and Veronica, but Cheryl is keeping secrets of her own. What, exactly, is she hiding about the mysterious death of her twin brother, Jason? Riverdale may look like a quiet, sleepy town, but there are dangers in the shadows. Riverdale makes its Comic-Con debut with a screening of the complete pilot episode, followed by a Q&A with series stars and executive producers. Riverdale is from Berlanti Productions in association with Warner Bros. Television and CBS Television Studios, with executive producers Greg Berlanti (Arrow, The Flash, Supergirl, DC’s Legends of Tomorrow, Blindspot), Roberto Aguirre-Sacasa (Supergirl, Glee), Sarah Schechter (Arrow, The Flash, Supergirl, DC’s Legends of Tomorrow, Blindspot) and Jon Goldwater (Archie Comics). Riverdale premieres midseason on The CW. Become a fan of Riverdale on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/CWRiverdale, and follow the show on Twitter at @CW_Riverdale. Room 6BCF

 

7:25-8:15 p.m. Frequency Pilot Screening and Q&A — Based on the New Line feature film, Frequency is the story of a father and daughter who are supernaturally reunited two decades after his suspicious and untimely death. New York detective Raimy Sullivan was only 7 when her father, Frank Sullivan, an undercover cop, abandoned his family in pursuit of a case that led not only to his family’s breakup, but also his eventual death undercover. Always believing her dad died in disgrace as a corrupt cop, Raimy set forth to surpass him in law enforcement, rising through the ranks to detective. But everything she knows changes when somehow Raimy and Frank connect — across two decades — over Frank’s vintage ham radio in the garage. Where once Frank was lost in the shadows of his undercover work in 1996, he has now miraculously been found by his now-grown daughter in 2016. As they forge a new relationship while working together in two time periods to close an unsolved serial murder investigation, their emotional connection transcends time to not only repair the broken bonds of their family, but also defy fate and change the course of destiny. Frequency makes its Comic-Con debut with a screening of the complete pilot episode, followed by a Q&A with series stars Peyton List (The Tomorrow People, The Flash), Riley Smith (Nashville, The Messengers) and Mekhi Phifer (Torchwood, ER), along with executive producers Jeremy Carver (Supernatural, U.S. version of Being Human) and Jennifer Gwartz (Lethal Weapon, Veronica Mars). From Lin Pictures in association with Warner Bros. Television, Frequency premieres Wednesday, October 5, at 9/8c on The CW. Become a fan on Facebook at www.facebook.com/CWFrequency and follow the show on Twitter at @CWFrequency. Room 6BCF

 

8:20-9:15 p.m. Time After Time Pilot Screening and Q&A — Using the 1979 novel and movie as a launching point, Time After Time chronicles the epic adventures of a young H.G. Wells. At the age of 28, the 19th century scholar has yet to publish any of his landmark science fiction novels, but his idealistic thinking and radical ideas have led him to actually create a time machine. When his longtime friend — the charismatic (and secretly psychopathic) Dr. John Stevenson, aka Jack the Ripper — finds himself cornered by the authorities at Wells’ London home, he escapes to present-day New York City using the time machine. Naturally, Wells follows, but instead of the Utopian society he imagined would be in the future, he finds a world more aligned to Stevenson’s temperament. Fortunately, Wells meets up with Jane Walker, an assistant curator at a museum staging an exhibition on H.G. Wells, the Father of Science Fiction. As Wells and Jane come together, they will not only play a dangerous endgame with Stevenson, but also find themselves involved with the incredible characters and scenarios that inspired Wells’ War of the Worlds, The Invisible Man, The Island of Dr. Moreau and more. An epic love story charged with danger and adventure, Time After Time gives an unpredictable spin on the mythology of H.G. Wells by looking at the world of today through the eyes of yesterday. Time After Time makes its Comic-Con debut with a screening of the complete pilot episode, followed by a Q&A with executive producers Kevin Williamson (The Vampire Diaries, Dawson’s Creek, The Following, Scream movies) and Marcos Siega (Blindspot, The Following, The Vampire Diaries, Dexter, Cold Case, Veronica Mars) and series stars Freddie Stroma (Harry Potter films, Pitch Perfect, Game of Thrones, 13 Hours, UnREAL) and Genesis Rodriguez (Identity Thief, Man on a Ledge, Entourage, Big Hero 6). Based on the novel written by Karl Alexander and produced by Outerbanks Entertainment in association with Warner Bros. Television, Time After Time premieres midseason on ABC. Become a fan of Time After Time on Facebook at facebook.com/TimeAfterTimeABC and follow the show on Twitter at @TimeAfterABC. Room 6BCF”

SUNDAY, JULY 24

“11:15 a.m.-12:15 p.m. Supernatural Special Video Presentation and Q&A — Join series stars Jared Padalecki (Friday the 13th [2009]), Jensen Ackles (My Bloody Valentine 3D), Misha Collins (Ringer) and Mark A. Sheppard (Battlestar Galactica), along with executive producers Robert Singer (Lois & Clark: The New Adventures of Superman) and Andrew Dabb (Supernatural) in Hall H to answer questions from the audience about what’s in store for the 12th season of this exciting series! Fans will also be treated to an exclusive video presentation featuring series highlights, as well as a portion of the special features from the upcoming Supernatural: The Complete Eleventh Season DVD and Blu-ray™ release on September 6. The 12th season of Supernatural will premiere October 13 in its new Thursday time period at 9/8c on The CW. The series is produced by Kripke Enterprises Inc. in association with Warner Bros. Television. Become a fan of the show on Facebook at www.facebook.com/Supernatural and follow the show on Twitter at @cw_spn. Hall H

 

3:00-4:15 p.m. Animaniacs Live! — It’s time for Animaniacs…LIVE! Join the voice cast of the iconic animated series Animaniacs — Rob Paulsen, Tress MacNeille and Jess Harnell — along with series songwriter Randy Rogel for a zany, animany and totally insaney afternoon as they perform songs from the beloved cartoon. Animaniacs Live! will be coming to a city near you.”

Meet ‘Gotham’s New Poison Ivy

by jake108

If you’re still on Gotham‘s wild ride, then you can expect a shake up in Poison Ivy’s character. If you haven’t been following the show, I’ll try explaining this in the simplest way possible.

GothamIvy

Up until now, Ivy Pepper has been portrayed as a young teenager, played by Clare Flory. Following a run-in with a monster in Indian Hill, which happens to be a secret research and testing lab that seems to be cranking out super-villains, Ivy Pepper progresses to the age of 19. Here’s the official run-down:

Following an encounter with a monster from Indian Hill, Ivy Pepper finds herself reborn, and one step closer to the DC villain she is destined to become: Poison Ivy. Now a 19-year-old woman who’s harnessed the full power of her charms, she sets her sights on Bruce Wayne.

MaggieGeha_Gotham

The new Ivy, played by Maggie Geha, is set to take up the role and Ivy’s charms. I expect we’ll see more about this bit of news and more next month at San Diego Comic-Con!

SDCC ’16: Are We Getting a ‘Justice League’ Panel?

by jake108

We already know Suicide Squad and Wonder Woman will be making an appearance at the San Diego Comic-Con this year, but could a Justice League panel also be on the way?

Justice league

Yesterday, Ben Affleck himself said “We’ll be there,”  in response to a question as to whether or not he’ll be at SDCC this year. While he didn’t outright mention the Justice League film, we do know that the film is currently filming. Another possibility is that Affleck will be there to talk about his upcoming Batman solo-film.  Still, with Suicide Squad and Wonder Woman already making an appearance there, we might be in for one huge panel.

In any case, with Marvel making an appearance this year, after going MIA last year, SDCC 2016 is shaping up to be big.

Lynda Carter Cast in CW’s ‘Supergirl’

by jake108

It’s been no secret that the CW’s casting for their DCTV shows have been phenomenal. The trend continues with the announcement that Lynda Carter, Wonder Woman herself, has been cast for a role in the upcoming season of Supergirl.

LyndaCarter

Supergirl, as you know, has moved to the CW and will premier its second season this October. In an effort to ramp up the buzz, Lynda Carter has been cast as the president of the United States. Not much is known beyond that. However, we can now assume that Supergirl will have some form of communication with the president, be it for better or worse. In any case, we’re pretty excited!

Supergirl returns Monday, October 10th!

Geekscape Comics: Weekly Reads

by Karson

We are experimenting with a new format the next couple of weeks, let me know what you think!

👎 – Skip, read at your own risk
👌 – Okay, not great, not bad, you might find something to like here
💪 – Great, highly recommended

Be sure to check-out the end where I tell you why I think DC is in the position to win over a lot of life long Marvel fans, including myself.

MARVEL

👌 Amazing Spider-Man #14
It’s all Regent all the time. Setting up for Dead No More? I don’t think so. Reading it because it’s Spider-Man and that’s it.

👎 Uncanny X-Men #8
While initially I was enjoying it, Uncanny X-Men has became my least favourite of the X-Men books. The Apocalypse Wars arc has lacked focus and this book, despite it’s strong characters, offers little to the narrative.

👌 Civil War II – X-Men #1
Solid book, plants seeds of the X-Men’s involvement in Civil War II. Much like last week’s Civil War II – Spider-Man, a good read but not necessary if you’re just trying to keep up with Civil War II.

👎 International Iron Man #4
How they can slap a Civil War II logo on this book is beyond me right now. At least with Invincible Iron Man (discussed a few weeks ago) it was just a little behind Civil War II, this book I have no idea where it even fits into the narrative. I could be swayed but I have a hard time seeing how this isn’t anything but extra money in the bank for Bendis.

👎 Civil War II #2
I don’t know if I’m just frustrated with how many damn books Marvel has released under the Civil War II title and how little has went on but honestly, this has me so down on Marvel. We have to be more than a dozen books in and I could summarize in a single sentence what has happened so far. Marvel wants your money and in my opinion is doing little to deserve it.

DC

👌 Batman #1
Fun, emotionally impactful story of Batman doing the impossible. The ending left me curious as to where this series is heading.

💪 Green Arrow #1
Surprisingly, this was my favourite of DC’s #1’s this week. Solid writing, stand out art, and jaw-dropping ending.

👌 Green Lanterns #1
My least favourite of the current Rebirth titles. There are a lot of cool elements and nothing that I can point to that is glaringly wrong with the book, it just isn’t clicking for me.

👌 Superman #1
This book is all about Superman and his super-powered son. I really like the father/son dynamic at play here and can’t wait to see where it is taken.

💪 Titans – Rebirth #1
I loved this book. I wish I was more in tuned with the DC Universe because I think that knowledge and appreciation would put this title on a whole other level. I was so emotionally tied into everything that happened throughout this issue. Such great stuff! If you haven’t got into Rebirth yet, this is the book to do it.

Book Of The Week

Titans Cover

Thought Bubble

Being a die hard Marvel fanboy all my life, I can’t believe I’m saying this, but I think by this fall, DC Comics is going to be my #1.

Right now, it feels like Marvel is taking their fan base for granted while DC is actively trying to please them. Anyone who loved Captain America: Civil War and goes to their local comic book store because Civil War II has peaked their interest is going to feel completely lost when they think they are expected to read nearly every title Marvel puts out each week to keep caught up with the event. There is no need for this, especially when none of the side books have done anything substantial to drive the story forward. Honestly, we have to be close to a dozen Civil War II related titles released and I can still summarize the story in a single sentence. Not to mention, after the dust settles on this arc, Marvel is going ahead with their own reboot or rebirth or whatever you’d like to call it, which further dwindles the value of the Civil War II run.

Historically, switching allegiances was a difficult thing to do, since if you want to read a certain character you are stuck with the company that owns it. However, Marvel has taken the spotlight off of their historically significant characters and started to shine the light on all-new versions of them. Sure, Marvel may own the characters I love, but I hardly see them nowadays, and when I do the character rarely resembles the one I grew up loving. There is a real opportunity to distance yourself from Marvel books and not miss out on anything.

While Marvel is in a slump, DC is delivering unbelievable value to fans. They aren’t doing anything fancy either; they are just trying to please comic book fans. Rebirth has been perfect in that it makes all the titles accessible to new readers, yet still offers bonuses to the publisher’s long-time fans by embracing the history of their properties (at least I think it does, I’m not in that camp). They price all their book and one low price, making them accessible to anyone. While DC is also introducing new iterations to their main characters, the changes feel much more complimentary than what Marvel is currently doing.

I don’t know the in’s and out’s of the comic book industry, I don’t know the numbers or even how much winning in comic books matters these days, maybe it doesn’t? I do know that comics mean a lot to me, and in my heart, for the first time in 26 years, DC has a chance to be #1.

The CW Reveals Premiere Dates For ‘The Flash’, ‘Supergirl’, And More!

by Derek Kraneveldt

Briefly: As disappointed as I am that iZombie won’t make its third season debut until the 2017 midseason, The CW has just revealed it’s Fall season premiere dates, and it looks like we’re set to have a phenomenal Fall in front of our television sets.

Of course, Supergirl has made the jump from CBS to The CW (and is now filming in my home city, which is pretty neat), and as such, a few other series have shifted around from their typical places.

Here’s what The CW has coming for us this Fall:

TUESDAY, OCTOBER 4
8:00-9:00pm THE FLASH (Season Premiere)
9:00-10:00pm NO TOMORROW (Series Premiere)

WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 5
8:00-9:00pm ARROW (Season Premiere)
9:00-10:00pm FREQUENCY (Series Premiere)

THURSDAY, OCTOBER 6
8:00-10:00pm IHEARTRADIO MUSIC FESTIVAL NIGHT ONE

FRIDAY, OCTOBER 7
8:00-10:00pm IHEARTRADIO MUSIC FESTIVAL NIGHT TWO

MONDAY, OCTOBER 10
8:00-9:00pm SUPERGIRL (The CW Premiere)
9:00-10:00pm NO TOMORROW (Premiere Episode Encore)

THURSDAY, OCTOBER 13
8:00-9:00pm DC’S LEGENDS OF TOMORROW (Season Premiere)
9:00-10:00pm SUPERNATURAL (Season Premiere)

MONDAY, OCTOBER 17
8:00-9:00pm SUPERGIRL (Original Episode)
9:00-10:00pm JANE THE VIRGIN (Season Premiere)

FRIDAY, OCTOBER 21
8:00-9:00pm THE VAMPIRE DIARIES (Season Premiere)
9:00-10:00pm CRAZY EX-GIRLFRIEND (Season Premiere)

I’m also really looking forward to checking out No Tomorrow and Frequency, so… well, I’m going to need to quit my job or something so that I can catch up on everything I’m already behind on.

What CW series are you most looking forward to this year? Sound out below!

2000px-The_CW.svg

Geekscape Comics: Weekly Reads!

by Karson

Welcome to Weekly Reads! It’s your little dose of comic book goodness that discusses comic books from the week that was!

How about we take a break from all the video games news to discuss comics! 📚 > 🕹

Ongoing Reads

It’s been awhile since we discussed X-Men and with the release All-New X-Men #10 this past week, what better time than now? The whole is NOT greater than the sum of its parts when it comes to the current arc going on in the X-Men books, Apocalypse Wars. There doesn’t seem to be any continuity between the titles, each storyline seems to be it’s own entity involving Apocalypse but they don’t feel like a part of the same narrative so reading All-New X-Men isn’t going to make your reading of Uncanny X-Men any better. This means you can read as few or as many of the X-Men books as you want and not have to worry about missing out on anything. Currently, I’d say All-New is the strongest of the X-Men titles, with this week’s issue being particularly fascinating. We see Evan, Kid Apocalypse, interact with an Apocalypse who is in his early teens (before becoming one of the most powerful villains in the Marvel Universe). I find it fascinating to see noble and pure intentions from a character who grows up to become bent on wiping out entire races of people. I hope we get to find out what caused him to snap, although I’m not sure what it’ll be since he doesn’t appear to have anything that means too much to him.

Finally, a new issue to one of my favourite ongoing series, The Fix #3! I wouldn’t say it’s a slip-up, but the third issue of The Fix isn’t on the same level as the first two. I didn’t enjoy this issue as much for two reasons. First, the humour was noticeably lacking. The first two issues had me laughing every other page, this issue barely got a smile out of me. Second, our two main characters aren’t together. It became obvious to me that a lot of the laughs and zany moments in this book were a result of the chemistry between Roy and Mac. I’m sure this book will get back on track in the next issue or two. It’s sort of a stretch to say it’s offtrack, it just wasn’t what I have come to expect from this book and therefore I didn’t enjoy it as much. It is still probably my favourite read of the week!

New Reads

Civil War II - Amazing Spider-Man (2016) 001-000

I have mixed feelings about Civil War II – Amazing Spider-Man #1. I like Spider-Man, Gage and Foreman put together a nice Spider-Man feeling story that feels like an authentic extension of Slott and Camuncoli’s current Amazing Spider-Man books. My problem is it’s Civil War II branding, which to me is nothing but a money grab play by Marvel. I feel like this book (and probably many others) isn’t going to offer any substantial story elements to Civil War II, yet they clearly market you to buy it to so you can be in the know. These excessively large story arcs complicate the buying decisions of most comic book readers and put a pretty big barrier to entry up to new readers. If you loved the Civil War movie and walk into the comic book shop to read this Civil War II you’ve been hearing about, you aren’t going to be excited by the endless list of books you’re supposed to read, you just aren’t going to bother with it at all. I wish we could trim the fat on these crossover events and keep the number of titles you need to purchase to a minimum.

If you like Spider-Man and want more of him, you’ll enjoy this book. If you just want to read it because it’s a Civil War II tie-in, don’t bother.

Aquaman - Rebirth (2016) 001-000

The Flash - Rebirth 01-000

Wonder Woman - Rebirth (2016) 001-000

DC’s Rebirth continues with The Flash, Aquaman and Wonder Woman this week. All these titles have felt solid so far. As far as a recommendation goes, I’d say go with your gut. No book is noticeably better or way worse than any other book right now, pick a character that interests you and start reading them.

Action Comics and Detective Comics also saw releases this week, 957 and 934 respectively. Yep, these books have been around for awhile. In case you aren’t in the know, Action Comics is Super-Man and Detective Comics is Batman. What’s the difference between them and their solo titles? Well, it would seem to me that Detective Comics will focus the attention on Batman and his team, while his book will be just centred around Batman. The lines between Action Comics and Superman felt a bit more blurred. For someone new to DC, these books feel like they carry a little more baggage than what we are seeing from the Rebirth titles but are accessible none the less.

Next Time

Another week in the books! Come back next time for, you guessed it, more Civil War! More Rebirth! And who knows what else!

Geekscape Comics: Weekly Reads!

by Karson

Welcome to Weekly Reads! It’s your little dose of comic book goodness that focuses on some aspect of my comic book reading!

📚🏊📚

That’s right, we are swimming in a pool of awesome comic books this week! Let’s talk about them!

Ongoing Reads

Brian K. Vaughan’s PAPER GIRLS is back with it’s 6th issue! Vaughan tells the story of a group of 12-year-old paper girls who get caught up in some pretty crazy apocalyptic scenario. Aside from a ton of awesome 80’s references, there are also some cool time travel mechanics. There are so many questions I’m dying to find the answers to. I’m really digging Cliff Chiang’s poppy art style too. You won’t want to pick up this book without reading #1-5 first, but they’re definitely worth it.

Jason Aaron and Giulia Brusco’s THE GODDAMNED is a book I want to like a lot more than I actually do. Brusco’s work is breathtaking throughout the series, the sense of bareness and desolation that his settings matchings the book’s tone perfectly. As always, I think my lack of enjoyment for the title stems from some bad expectations on my part. The main character, Cain, just isn’t who I expected him to be. He has done too much crying and not enough kicking ass… It looks like that might change next issue though. I can’t recommend this series because I’m just not a fan, but I think there are a lot of people out there who love and would love THE GODDAMNED.

The second issue of THE PUNISHER was pretty standard Punisher stuff; the Punisher kills a lot of people a lot of different ways. Well, mostly by shooting them. The books ending left me in shock though, it’s a moment that you only see in the medium of comic books. Before you ask, no, Frank Castle didn’t hail hydra.

Dan Slott and Giuseppe Camuncoli’s run on Spider-Man continues with AMAZING SPIDER-MAN #13. If you like seeing super heroes get into school yard fights, this issue is for you. Iron Man and Spider-Man squabble and insult each other while Miles gets into a little bit of trouble with Regent. I can’t see myself getting too invested in this storyline, I just want Dead No More, but we still have 3 more issues to go.

New Reads

Superman Rebirth 1

DC’s Rebirth is in full effect! Last week brought us four Rebirth issues; Batman, Superman, Green Lantern and Green Arrow. These issues feel a lot like Free Comic Book Day books, it’s mostly just setup for things to come. If you aren’t familiar with the DC Universe (like me!) these books are still accessible. Even at the new, lower, price point, I don’t think any of these Rebirth issues are worth picking up, just read a summary instead. If you’re on a tight budget, just pick one of the characters and roll with that. Or wait a month or two and find out what book everyone is loving. Got no shortage of cash? Read em all! Nothing has wowed me yet, I’m just enjoying the newness of it all.

A simple guide for getting into DC Comics:
1. Listen The Geekscape DC Universe: Rebirth Special
2. Accept that Ian Kerner is human and not a walking comic book encyclopedia.
3. Pick one character (or more) that interests you and start reading.

Mighty Morphin Power Rangers - Pink 001-000

BOOM! Studios’ Power Ranger line-up is expanding with this week’s MIGHTY MORPHIN POWER RANGERS: PINK #1 by the creative team of Brenden Fletcher, Kelly Thompson, and Daniele Di Nicuolo. This book is pretty much what you see is what you get. It isn’t on the same level as the other Power Rangers book but if you like the universe this is probably worth picking up, otherwise, you’re probably better spending your money elsewhere.

Civil War II 1

Amongst all the DC Rebirth, Marvel quietly began their big summer event with CIVIL WAR II #1. All the big surprises took place in the Free Comic Book Day issue and this book shows us what led up to it and the aftermath. We won’t get into spoilers, but basically a new inhuman is discovered that can see the future, a couple of characters die, and everyone is conflicted over this. There are A LOT of books involved in this arc, and right now I’m worried that it’s going to be hard to keep up with if you aren’t reading everything. This book did nothing to calm my worries.

Invincible Iron Man 10

On that note, I decided to read some more Brian Michael Bendis this week and checked out INVINCIBLE IRON MAN #10. That didn’t do me much good. Unless I’m missing something, this book is lagging behind the rest of Marvel’s ongoing stuff. Mary Jane isn’t even working for Stark yet, which we are seeing in both Civil War II and the Amazing Spider-Man books. So basically we are getting some back story explaining the events that took place on Free Comic Book Day and Civil War II #0, which I guess makes sense since it’s “Road to Civil War II.” Anyways, long story short, it’s frustrating to be reading these things out of order and for me, just makes me feel crazy for not just reading in trade.

Next Time

More Rebirth! More Civil War! The Fix #3!

Geekscape Recaps: ‘The Flash’ – The Race of His Life

by jake108

We’re back with our final recap of The Flash season 2. It’s been quite a season, and it would be an understatement to say that season one set the bar high for the rest of the series. Season two parallels this same sentiment and goes one step further and hints at another major Flash comic book event. More on that after the jump!

Warning: Spoilers Ahead! 

Earth Prime

During this episode, it was revealed that the Earth portrayed in CW’s The Flash, Legends of Tomorrow, and Arrow is the nexus between the infinite earth’s. This would theoretically make the Earth’s portrayed in any DC cinematic renditions to be just one of many Earth’s.

CP Flash

Before his defeat, Zoom’s plan was to set off a sort of bomb that would send a transdimensional ripple across the infinite Earths and destroy them. Had his plan worked, Zoom would then conquer Earth Prime and rule it as the fastest man alive. Unfortunately for him, his plan didn’t fly so well.

Zoom

Zoom was handed his first defeat, and one that would transform him forever. Fans of the comics will see some similarities that may lead them to believe that Zoom lives on, just in another form. Earlier this season, we were introduced to Time Wraiths, a kind of police that puts speedsters into check to prevent them from ruining timelines and other Earth’s. As the Time Wraith’s took Zolomon away, his body seemed to disintegrate. This transformation seemed to resemble that of Black Flash.

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I believe it’s entirely possible we’ll see Zolomon again, most likely in this more sinister form.

Earth-3

The identity of the man in the iron mask was finally revealed, and it’s something that we’ve talked about multiple times in the past. Now that we have an established Jay Garrick, and an established Earth-3, we can finally connect The Flash to Legends of Tomorrow in a more concrete way.

 

JSA The Flash 223

At the end of the Legends of Tomorrow season finale, the Legends were visited by Rex Tyler, aka Hourman. Hourman, if you don’t know, is a member of the Justice Society of America. The JSA was mentioned by name at the end of the episode. What’s even better is that Jay Garrick may also be a member of the JSA.

Jay Garrick

Jay Garrick turned out to be Henry Allen’s Earth-3 doppleganger. After Zolomon failed at taking Garrick’s speed, his stole his identity and locked up him in a cell where he remained after being rescued by the Flash.

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Seeing this was a bit overwhelming, understandably so, but the presence of a seasoned speedster may be just what Barry needs. Zolomon’s helmet, which resembles “hope” was adopted by Garrick and will carry on it’s meaning. Garrick took Wells and Jesse back to Earth-2, where they will presumably help him get to Earth-3. I’m certain we’ll see him back in some capacity throughout the series, and hopefully in a much larger capacity in Legends of Tomorrow.

Flashpoint

The Flashpoint Paradox is a well-documented story arc involving the Flash. After Barry rescues his mother and prevents her from ever being killed, the entire world has Barry knew it ceased to exist. This sounds closest to what happened last night. While I doubt the changes will be permanent, it will be very interesting seeing how things play out early into Season 3.

You can watch The Flashpoint Paradox on Netflix instant streaming, or buy it here.

Flash 223

Looking back at it now, this entire season has really been moving past losing his mom. Everything from the Comic-Con trailer I discussed a couple of weeks back, to having Barry recite what seemed to be a common theme this season. Every time Barry scored a victory, he still loss in some way. It’s been like that since season one and this trend seemed to ultimately break him, and snap back to his somewhat selfish state he had at the end of last season. Yes, everyone gave him their blessing to change the timeline, but Barry ultimately chose to keep everything intact, which is what Henry Allen wanted for his son. After losing Henry, Barry snapped and pushed the button. The consequences for his actions will hopefully reverberate onto Season three. In any case, if he’s going to want to put the timeline back to normal, he’s going to need a ton of help from the Speedforce.

With that, it’s going to be a very long summer. However, I will still continue with news from all things DCTV. We’re bound to hear more about The Flash sooner than we think! As always, thanks for reading!

Geekscape Recaps: ‘Legends of Tomorrow’ – Destiny

by jake108

What an episode! I was beginning to wonder what Legends of Tomorrow had in store for the three remaining episodes a couple of weeks ago. Now that it has been revealed who the real villains are, the stakes couldn’t be higher. On top of that, we got word of a possible, and perhaps, eventual future. Let’s get to it!

Warning: Spoilers Ahead! 

Time Masters

The Time Masters have always been a sort of villain since the start of the show. However, up until now, we’ve thought that the Time Masters only wanted to apprehend Rip Hunter for messing with the timeline. Tonight, we found out that answer was only a half true.

Destiny

As it turns out, the Time Masters wanted Rip and his crew to visit all of these time periods and aid Vandal Savage in assuming power over the world. Everything from the United States winning the Cold War, to killing Rip’s family was carefully planned out, thus taking away any free well the Legends crew thought they had.

Destiny

In an attempt to change destiny, the crew decides to engage the time masters at the Vanishing Point, which is in another dimension. Doing so, they’ve managed to destroy a device that allows the Time Masters to peer into the future, thus taking their power over the timeline away.

Captain Cold

DC's Legends of Tomorrow -- "Destiny"-- Image LGN115a_0040b.jpg -- Pictured: Wentworth Miller as Leonard Snart/Captain Cold -- Photo: Cate Cameron/The CW -- © 2016 The CW Network, LLC. All Rights Reserved.
DC’s Legends of Tomorrow — “Destiny”– Image LGN115a_0040b.jpg — Pictured: Wentworth Miller as Leonard Snart/Captain Cold — Photo: Cate Cameron/The CW — © 2016 The CW Network, LLC. All Rights Reserved.

Is he gone? I doubt it. What we know is that Rip saw Palmer dissolve, but that doesn’t mean he necessarily died. Another possibility is that, since it wasn’t Ray Palmer, perhaps the event was changed so that no one dissolves. We’ll have to find out what happens to Cold in next week’s episode, but something tells me he’s due for a major role next episode.

Thanagarian Invasion

egends of Tomorrow 115 thanagarian

The Thanagarian Invasion was a popular story arc in the Justice League Animated Series in episodes 50-52. In what spanned over three episodes, we saw Thanagarians invading Earth in droves so that they could destroy the planet altogether. All of this was a ploy to provide a straight path to another alien race they were warring with. The event was also the root cause in deciding the open up Justice League membership to many others. In any case, should this invasion ever to come pass, it’s going to take everyone to fight back. Who knows, maybe that’s what Legends season two is going to take on.

‘Supergirl’ Moves to the CW!

by jake108

Rumors have been swirling for a while now, and today, it was made official. What’s worrying here for Supergirl fans is the show’s production budget. It’s reported that each episode took about three million dollars to produce. However, since the show is jumping to the CW, it’s likely the production will also move to Vancouver, where the rest the DC shows on the CW are filmed.

supergirl-the-flash-variety-photoshoot-gustin

With any luck, we won’t see any decrease in production value and Supergirl may end up a better series because of the jump. In any case, we can expect to see some major crossover action planned for season five of Arrow, season three of The Flash, and the season two of Legends of Tomorrow.

Geekscape Recaps: ‘Arrow’ – Monument Point

by jake108

We’re back with another recap of tonight’s Arrow! Monument Point wasn’t just an episode that was actively setting the stage for a Darhk vs. Arrow bout. It also served as a pivotal point for Team Arrow, which is something they’re probably going to remember for the rest of their lives. So without further ado…

Warning: Spoilers Ahead! 

Monument Point

What may come as a surprise to some, Monument Point has served as a plot device in DC lore, previous to appearing in Arrow tonight. Unfortunately for the city itself, it’s no stranger to disaster.

Arrow 421

In tonight’s episode, Team Arrow, I mean Felicity, managed to reroute a nuclear missile so that it would hit 20 miles east of his destination. This destination turned out to be Havencroft, which is a suburb of Monument Point. While Monument Point may be safe from widespread destruction, those living in the city are still in danger of fallout and radiation. It’s quite possible that this disaster will not be ignored by larger entities and may play as a pivotal factor in the next season of Arrow.

All the Best Cowboys…

Daddy issues are frequent in this show, and have been since Oliver watched his dad commit suicide right in front of him. This week, we got a few of doses of daddy-drama when Donna, Felicity’s mom, confronted Lance regarding his lie about knowing the Black Canary’s true identity. After a few stern words, Lance revised his report stating that he knew, and cooperated with his daughter’s heroics. While this may jeopardize his reinstatement in the police force, Lance can at least rest easy knowing he made Donna happy.

Arrow 421 fel and dad

The second dose came when Felicity was forced to contact her father to help save the world. While Noah regarded the whole affair as making up for missed bonding time, Felicity kept their interactions strictly professional. There’s no telling as to what Noah will become after this ordeal. Who knows? Maybe he’ll go live out at that cabin the woods, or rent another cabin somewhere near by. I hear there’s a cabin near Central City that recently went back on the market.

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The third dose came when Thea had a run in with her father. Merlyn explained that the only reason why he’s working with Darhk was, of course, to perserve his life, as well as his daughter’s life. To be fair, had Oliver not taking the mantle of Ra’s Al Ghul away from Merlyn, he’d probably be utilizing the League of Assassins to take down HIVE. Still, doesn’t Merlyn have a few loyalists still? Don’t be surprised if they show up at the end of this season.

Darhk

Darhk wasn’t in much of this episode. However, in the bit he was in, he looked fierce. It’s been properly stated that the reason why Darhk wanted nuclear annihilation, besides being able to rebuild afterward, was because his power thrives on the death of others. Nuclear bombs, of course, are the quickest way to kill people. Since one bomb went off, killings tens of thousands, we can assume that Darhk is mighty powerful right about now.

Arrow 421

There’s really no telling as to what Oliver is going to do now that Darhk is more powerful than he has been all season. Maybe we’ll get another couple of flashbacks as to how he was able to survive that magical situation on Lian-Yu. The two arcs have to be connected somehow, and I’m sure Oliver will probably have one last thing up his sleeve that doesn’t involve learning magic in some back room at a casino.

A.R.G.U.S

A.R.G.U.S. was seen at the tail end of this episode helping out Team Arrow. Most of the agents, including the head of A.R.G.U.S. herself, helped by fending off a number of HIVE soldiers. Their presence here is meaningful because it explains why no one is helping out at Central City.

Arrow 421 argus

Zoom has the city under siege with a meta-human army at his command, but I’m sure SWAT has it covered.

Anarky

Anarky made another appearance this episode, just when I was beginning to forget about him. He’s still hellbent on taking down Darhk, and may prove to be a vital asset to Team Arrow down the line when it’s time to take Darhk down.

Arrow 421 Anarky

Remember, Anarky has been involved in each of Team Arrow’s attempts at taking Darhk down. The last time he was involved, Anarky had kidnapped Darhk’s family, leaving Darhk vulnerable for Team Arrow to come in and find his weak point.

That’s all for this week! As always, thanks for reading!

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=i23uTEFzX6g

Geekscape Recaps: ‘The Flash’ – The Runaway Dinosaur

by jake108

Kevin Smith is synonymous with the definition of geekdom in many of our vocabularies. It’s not uncommon to come across some that don’t generally like him or his work, and that’s fine, but I think he deserves a round of applause for guiding what seemed to be the most unique and hardest episodes to direct in the series. The Runaway Dinosaur closed a story thread that had been swinging in the wind for the entirety of the series; And that of course, was Barry coming to peace with making the decision to not save his mother at the end of the first season. So without further ado, let’s get to it!

Nora Allen

Nora Allen’s death was the driving force behind the first season. Of course, the big baddie last season was Eobard Thawne, a.k.a. the Reverse Flash, but it was Thawne’s action in killing Nora Allen that set off the events that would unfold into Barry Allen becoming a hero and defeating his nemesis for the first time. At the end of the first season, we saw Barry had a chance to save his mother and change history as we knew it. This would also mean that Barry’s life up until that point would be drastically different. For instance, he would have never lived with Joe, never would have grown up with Iris, and he would not be the same person he was in that instance.

The Flash 221 Jow

When Barry made the decision not to save his mother, partly because his future self chimed in with his two cents, Barry had to live with it. His guilt, which was stacked on already losing Ronnie Raymond to the singularity, was evident from the start of this season. You can even get a feeling for how Barry was feeling during this Comic-Con trailer for season two:

I just feel like I made a mistake. I should’ve saved my mom.

Now, after visiting and talking to Speedforce incarnate, Barry seems to be at peace with his decision. It also helped talking to a Speedfroce version of his mother, who was also in communication with his real mother.

The Flash 221 book

Now, feeling fulfilled, we were properly introduced to a new and improved Barry Allen. It’s going to be a blast seeing this new version of The Flash in the next couple of weeks, and next season.

The Speedforce

Last week, I went a little in depth as to where a speedster goes when they transcend our reality. However, in the show, the Speedforce seemed to take on a persona that seems to be immortal and omniscient.

The Flash 221 Joe

There isn’t much to discuss here other than that the Speedforce will probably making appearances in one way or another from now on. It’s also inspired Barry to take on what he sees as his true calling. Strangely, seeing Barry like this remindes me of Season Six Jack in LOST. 

Jesse Quick

Jesse Quick seemingly has some sort of speedster-like powers. This comes after being hit by Barry’s leftover energy, and having some form of energy transferred over to her from Barry.

The Flash 220

What’s eerie here, and perhaps means nothing at all, is that this scene was remeniscent of a scene in Episode 20 of Season 1. In this scene, Iris visits Barry in the hospital, some time after Barry is struck by lightning. When Iris lays her hand onto Barry’s, the same shock is present, only, this lightning here is blue.

The Flash 220

Zoom Gets to Bring Friends

At the end of the episode, Zoom revealed his army from Earth-2, and possibly other Earths as well. We won’t know for sure unless there’s some evidence presented inferring they’re all from Earth-2.

The Flash 220

Some of these villains will look familiar for comic readers, and it’s very exciting to see villains being utilized from deep within DC lore. I can’t wait for next week’s episode!

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vUKi7JnVt-w

Syfy Officially Orders ‘Krypton’ Pilot!

by Derek Kraneveldt

Briefly: We’ve known that SyFy had been working on a Krypton series since late 2014, but I’d never imagine that we’d actually see the series come to fruition.

Well, we’re now one step closer to Krypton, as SyFy has just officially ordered a pilot of the series.

Set two generations before the destruction of the legendary Man of Steel’s home planet.  Krypton will follow Superman’s grandfather — whose House of El was ostracized and shamed — as he fights to redeem his family’s honor and save his beloved world from chaos.

“Krypton is one of the most iconic stories in the comic book universe,” said Bill McGoldrick, Executive Vice President, Scripted Content, NBCUniversal Cable Entertainment. “In the talented hands of David S. Goyer and the DC Entertainment/Warner Horizon Television team, this exciting Syfy project will take viewers back to Superman’s home to show how the timeless legend began.”

The pilot will be executive produced by David S. Goyer, while Sleepy Hollow‘s Damian Kindler will act as showrunner. Colm McCarthy (“She Who Brings Gifts,” “Peaky Blinders”) will direct and co-executive produce the pilot, and the pilot teleplay and story is written by David S. Goyer & Ian Goldberg (“Once Upon a Time,” “Terminator: The Sarah Connor Chronicles”).

We’re excited. Are you excited?

We’ll be sure to share more Krypton news as soon as we hear it! Who would you like to see star in the series?

Syfylogo

Geekscape Recaps: ‘Arrow’ – Genesis

by jake108

Tonight’s episode of Arrow moved us one step closer to a final resolution between Damien Darhk and Team Arrow. While the episode seemed to move alone steadily, it was nice not having to flashback to Lian-Yu. Also, it would be nice to at least see Oliver talk to Constantine once in a while!

Warning: Spoilers Ahead! 

The Diggles

After many years of searching for the man who killed his little brother, John Diggle came to the realization that he had to do it himself. It was the right choice, especially after Andy kept coming at Diggle and threatening his family. Still, it’s probably going to be a little difficult if this whole event ever comes up in conversation with Diggle’s nephew.

Arrow 420 Diggles

The death of Andy signifies Diggle’s transformation. This was also marked by the contrasting views Lyla had when Diggle came back injured from his encounter with Andy. Diggle came close to reverting back to his own self by putting himself in danger without thinking of any repercussions that may follow his death. However, by the end of the episode, it was clear Diggle has changed for the better.

Magic 101

This episode also saw Oliver attempting to learn magic to combat Darhk’s abilities. During his training session, Oliver fought Deathstroke, Darhk, and other past enemies from Lian-Yu. This was a pretty cool segment, and it was nice seeing the Deathstroke suit dusted off.

Arrow 420 Mt

During this training session, we also learned that the reason why Darhk chose Star City as his base of operations was because of the existence of a magical “nexus”, similar to the one found on Lian-Yu. It’s assumed that this is where Darhk gets his powers, using that totem to channel his magical abilities. By the end of the episode, we found that two can play that game:

 

Thea

After taking some time off from the team while Oliver left to Hub City, Thea found herself in a bad situation in which she was drugged and kidnapped to a shelter under Star City. The shelter is of course operated by HIVE, and we’ve seen a glimpse of this place earlier this season. The dome is powered and its air is filtered by plants. HIVE was obviously thinking long term here, as they should be.

Arrow 420

As for Oliver’s ex-political advisor, he’s clearly under the control of HIVE, presumably not by choice. He mentioned that he was taking “vitamins” given to him by Ruvé Adams, Darhk’s wife. Of course, we know that this pills are used to take control of people, turning them into agents of HIVE. We saw this happen to Andy Diggle, and there’s no word yet on if the effects can be reversed.

Genesis

Finally, we caught wind of Darhk’s endgame. It’s assumed that Darhk plans on nuking the world and rebuilding his own in the future. His endgame is peculiar because it affects the entire world. You would think that Vandal Savage would have something to say about this.

Arrow 420 Darhk

If you remember more than a few weeks back, Damien Darhk appeared in a Legends of Tomorrow episode. In it, Darhk was seen trying to buy nuclear weapons. It’s clear now that nuking the planet has been in Darhk’s head for a few decades, if not longer. His yearn to control the planet also falls in line with his teachings within the League of Assassins, and it’s also probably what got him cast out of the league entirely, paving way to the Ra’s Al Ghul we saw last season.

Hub City

Lastly, but certainly not least, I wanted to expand a little on Hub City. The city is patrolled by The Question. Question is an expert martial artist, vigilante, sometimes conspiracy theorist, and a master detective. If he looks familiar to you, much of his persona was borrowed to create Rorschach of Watchmen.

Arrow Question

The city also pays homage to Ted Kord, also known as the Blue Beetle. Kord Industries has also been featured repeatedly on Arrow.

That’s all for this week! Thanks for reading!

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=r7cTJ3EeFGc

Geekscape Recaps: ‘The Flash’ – Rupture

by jake108

We’re back with another recap for The Flash! After a few ups and downs, I wholeheartedly believe that tonight, we were dealt one of the best episodes of the series. This episode, we saw a Barry Allen without speed. While it may not be the first time we’ve had an episode  where Barry struggles to live without his speed, we haven’t seen an episode where things truly become dire right in front of a helpless Barry. If Grant Gustin hasn’t solidified his role as Barry Allen for you, I don’t know what it’s going to take for that happen. Let’s get on with the recap!

Warning: Spoilers Ahead! 

Caitlin

Caitlin continues to have one of the most underrated and interesting character arcs this season. Let me reiterate by saying that we first found Caitlin working at a STAR Labs competitor at the start of this season. She was apprehensive at the notion of even returning to STAR Labs, let alone become part of the team again. This was completely understandable since she lost Ronnie at the end of season one. Now, having ben kidnapped by Zoom, Caitlin is continually being exposed to “the darkness.”

The Flash 220 Caitlin

Now, I’m not going to jump the shark and come right out and say Caitlin will assume her role as Killer Frost, but what I think we can expect in the third season is a darker Caitlin. You can’t be next to Zoom, especially for these next few days that can be described as the darkest days Central City has had, and expect to be completely fine afterward.

Iris

This episode marked Iris revealing her feelings about Barry. While there have been hints here and there over the course of the first season and this one, this marked an important step in developing their relationship out further. As long as it doesn’t feel forced, and as long as Iris doesn’t get the Felicity treatment, I’m fully on board.

The Flash 220 BarryIris

Last season, Iris felt like an accessory. She was the daughter, she was the love-interest; And after Eddie died, she had to rediscover herself. In doing so, she had to forge her own path into becoming part of Team Flash. At the time, Barry was involved with Patty, eliminating her role as the love-interest for the time being. So as long as she keeps her identity and doesn’t revert back to what she was in the first season, I think we can expect a great dynamic to be added in season three of The Flash.

Cisco and Dante

The Flash 220 Cisco

The brotherly love was strong with this episode. Cisco has been repeatedly made to feel left out of his own family, and Dante wasn’t helping the cause. Their relationship was on full display when Cisco met up with Dante at the bar, but for viewers who are new to the show or don’t quite remember their relationship from season one, a full transition took effect. Who knew all you need to repair a relationship with an estranged family member is an evil doppleganger from another Earth trying to kill you both?

Barry

In dramatic fashion, it would appear Barry got his speed back, but not without disappearing into the Speed Force. Seeing this transition was hard to watch, depending on how invested you are in the show. But regardless, it was very cool seeing this happen. As to where Barry went, he’s probably lost in the Speed Force, and he’s going to need some rescuing. There have been multiple interpretations as to where this place is, and/or how it happens. In the Justice League animated series, Wally West runs so fast, in trying to defeat a merged Brainiac and Lex Luthor, that he becomes one with the Speed Force and needs the rest of the League to help get him out.

In another instance, specifically in Young Justice, Wally is again subject to becoming part of the Speed Force.

Now, how would I imagine Barry gets out? Well, it’ll be up to Team Flash. However, I would love it if Jesse and Wally use speedster-like powers to tap into the Speed Force and save Barry.

Another thing I’d like to point out is the possibility at an answer as to what exactly that time wraith was a few episodes back. If you remember, Barry went back in time to have Eobard Thawne teach him how to get faster. During that trip, a time wraith chased Barry around and nearly killed him.

The Flash 220 Time Wraith

If you look closely, this time wraith is wearing Flash’s cowl, but no suit. The body also looks charred. Could it be possible that this time wraith was born when Barry entered the Speed Force? If so, it would make sense that all that would be left of Barry is a charred body and the cowl. After all, when Zoom went into STAR Labs, he only picked up Barry’s suit, which was missing the cowl.

The Flash 220

Jesse and Wally

I believe we have just witnessed the origins of Jesse Quick and Kid Flash and I could not be more excited. The wave that knocked the two over was probably Barry, in Speed Force form, I guess you could say. In the comics, there have been multiple instances where a speedster becomes one with the Speed Force. In one comic arc in particular, Barry turns into the lighting that strikes him at his origin, making him the Flash. Seeing what happened to Jesse and Wally was reminiscent of that.

The Flash 220 Wally

I would say the chances of seeing two speedsters helping Barry out in the coming episodes are pretty high. Since they were hit by the result of Barry getting his powers back, it’s hard to say just how fast they’ll be, but we can assume they won’t be as fast as Barry. Here’s to hoping seeing them in action in the penultimate episode this season!

Who’s in the Mask?!

Things are starting to ramp up to another big reveal at the end of this season. One, if not the most mysterious story threads this season has been the identity of the man in the mask being held in Zoom’s lair. I’ve said it before, and I’ll say it again: I believe the man in the mask is the real Jay Garrick. However, what’s key here is that this Jay Garrick is that of Barry’s father’s doppleganger.

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A major hint was dropped tonight when Barry visited his father at his far-away cabin. During their conversation, Henry informed Barry that his mother’s maiden name was Garrick. How this version of Jay Garrick will relate to Hunter Zolomon is yet to be seen. However, one theory would suggest that they’re step-brothers, or brothers. We’ll just have to wait and see!

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IyTi8qkw7rY

That’s all for this week! Thanks for reading!

Geekscape Comics: Weekly Reads!

by Karson

Welcome to Weekly Reads! It’s your little dose of comic book goodness that focuses on some aspect of my comic book reading!

Ongoing Reads

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Dan Slott and Giuseppe Camuncoli conclude their Zodiac storyline in Amazing Spider-Man #11. Way back in our first weekly reads, I expressed my discontent with the state of Spider-Man in the Marvel Universe. A few weeks ago I admitted that Bendis’ Spider-Man series was growing on me, and now, after 11 issues, I’ll admit I’m finally starting to enjoy Amazing Spider-Man again. Is this book anything special? Not really. Is this the Peter Parker I grew up with? Nope. But is this a bad book? Nope. It isn’t. Once I let go of my expectations of what I wanted this book to be, and accepted what it is trying to be, I started to enjoy it again. Regent is the next villain on Spider-Man’s list (meh) but the Doctor Octopus storyline is developing, ever so slowly.

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What to say about Dark Knight III: The Master Race… Meh. I don’t think Dark Knight III is worth your money right now (which is $5.99 on Comixology currently!). Don’t get me wrong, it’s nice to look at, but I just can’t engage with the story. It’s probably not as bad as I think it is but I wouldn’t recommend this to any of my friends, especially anyone without a decent knowledge of the DC Universe. Wait until the series wraps out then find out if it’s worth reading in trade.

New Reads

… Well, like I said week one, sometimes there won’t be much new and this is one of those weeks. I didn’t have a chance to check out any new books so I’ll take this as an opportunity to remind you to check out Dept. H! Its second issue is definitely the most anticipated book on my pull list!

Next Time

The Punisher #1… Anyone want to guess what iteration of The Punisher series this is?
Black Panther #2!
Black Widow #3!
Amazing Spider-Man #12! … Already?
Uncanny X-Men #7!
Holy crap!
I wanted to check out Renato Jones: The One% #1 but that might have to wait.

… Don’t worry DC fans, Rebirth is coming!