It’s hard to fathom how much work goes into designing our favorite films. Often times we take it for granted. We’ll go to to the theater, or play a game and we’ll love every minute of it, but that’s it. It’s not often that we sit back and ask how it came to be. This week, Weta Workshop, a design studio known for their on films such as Avatar, Lord of the Rings, The Chronicles of Narnia, among others, decided to answer that question for us. They’ve posted the first part of an on-going series detailing some of their stunning works and giving us some insight as to how they came about. The cool part, of course, being that Weta actually manufactures many of these designs for resale, so if you’re a collector and you don’t mind spending a few bucks, one of these pieces might even catch your eye, not to mention your wallet.
I’ve noticed that many sites seem to be posting a short thirty second trailer for Takeshi Miike’s live-action adaptation of Phoenix Wright, so here’s the latest full length trailer. As far as I’m concerned, they’ve really hit the nail on the head. Everything seems so spot on, from the overly dramatic acting to the gaudy costumes. It seems as though Miike decided to stick as close to the source material as possible, and I’m sure everyone who plans on watching it will be extremely grateful as a result. As some of you may recall, this isn’t his first attempt at adapting a game to film. Back in 2007, he directed Ryu ga Gotoku Gekijōban, a live-action take on Sega’s Yakuza franchise. The film won’t be released until February, s0 don’t expect to see it fan-subbed anytime soon. With any luck, someone might decide to license it for domestic distribution sometime next year.
If you haven’t heard by now, Cryptic’s Star Trek Online will be making its transition from a traditional subscription-based format to a Free-to-Play platform by the end f the year. The massive multiplayer title launched in February of last year to less-than-favorable reviews. Tragically, everyone found the space combat to be fresh and entertaining, but were quick to dismiss every other aspect of the game. I can’t really blame, though. Away team missions often featured randomly generated worlds that just seemed dull to begin with. Many of the alien species barely resembled their television counterparts, and the scripted encounters seemed hastily written, and poorly executed. Despite its flaws, the game seems to have persevered. Since its launch, Star Trek Online has grown considerably, kept alive through a series of free updates that serve as episodic expansions. While this has managed to keep fans happy so far, the upcoming transition might have a few of you concerned. So, what changes should you expect?
Many of us were psyched when Ridley Scott announced plans for an upcoming film set in the Blade Runner universe, but until recently, news has scarce. In an interview with the Wall Street Journal, Scott gave us a bit of an update regarding the project. In addition to stating that it’ll be the next film on his plate, Scott hinted that the film would actually serve chronological sequel, though it won’t feature any of the original cast, or even the character of Richard Deckard. I’m not sure how I feel about that, especially since the first film left so many unanswered questions. The film, of course, was loosely based on the Phillip K. Dick novel, Do Androids Dream of Electric Sheep? and while there have been several novelized sequels that try to bridge the gap between the two, it’s hard for anyone to really consider them cannon. Considering this new film will take the series in a new direction, I wonder if we’ll ever see a proper sequel. Still, it’s pretty awesome that we’re even going to get one in the first place.
In what I imagine was an effort to cut down on piracy, Sony recently announced plans to limit access of downloaded titles. Previously, users were allowed to activate their accounts on up to five consoles, allowing them to download their purchases to each. Starting November 18th, Playstation Network users will be limited to playing their purchased content on two PS3, and PSP consoles. Unfortunately, that means users who own more than the specified limit or who share their purchases with friends may find themselves making some tough decisions, however the change in policy shouldn’t effect any purchases made before the 18th.
The other day I mentioned that several videos from the Davies & Tennant Doctor Who wrap party recently hit the net, one of which featured a quirky little musical number by series stars David Tennant, Catherine Tate, and John Barrowman. I thought to save the second video for later, as the first was pretty lengthy and you have to admit that it’s kinda hard to top Barrowman’s freakishly good voice. This second video is also musical in nature as it features the cast and crew dancing and lip-syncing to the 80’s hit “I’m gonna be (500 miles” by the Proclaimers. Some of you may have caught the episode of Graham Norton — he’s sort of like a British Conan O’Brien, albeit a tad cruder — where Tennant met the band for the first time. Being a huge fan, Tennant had jumped when asked by their producers to star in one of the band’s music videos, only to discover they weren’t present during his shoot. After meeting them during the filming of Norton’s talk show, I imagine they must have hit it off, otherwise I’m sure they wouldn’t have been part of the video above. Pretty neat how it everything worked out.
Posted by Tim Sheehy on Nov 3, 2011 in Dr. Who, Fandom
I’m sure by now you’ve all come across Nyan Cat while browsing through one or more of your favorite net-haunts. For whatever reason its just one of those polarizing subjects where people either find it incredibly annoying or incredibly adorable with nobody falling in between. If you’re one of the latter, you’ll probably dig this awesome Doctor Who x Nyan Cat crossover shirt recently featured on Ript Apparel. Seeing as Ript designs are only available for a day before they’re taken down, you might think you’ve missed your chance to pick one up, but fear not! Brenda, the lovely artist responsible, also sells some of these designs as shirts through RedBubble. Sure it costs a bit more at $24 a pop, but at least you won’t have to worry about missing out. She also has some nifty Supernatural-inspired designs available for order. If you want to see more of her work, check out her Tumblr, or check out her Etsy store for anything else she might have on sale.
That’s right, here’s your chance to be featured as an expendable away-team member. Comic publisher IDW and the Comic Book Legal Defense Fund have teamed up to offer us a chance of a lifetime. The prize? One lucky fan, along with his or her favorite comic retailer, will be featured as a random “Red Shirt” on a special limited-edition variant cover for an upcoming issue of IDW’s Star Trek on-going series set in the Abramsverse — they’re calling it that, right? The Abramsverse? Not really fond of that name. Any way, starting Wednesday, November 2nd, you can enter by simply writing 300 words or less on why your local retailer is the best, then e-mailing your entry to contest@IDWPublishing.com with the subject line, “Save my Retailer.”
If you’re like me, and I imagine many of you are, you’ve loaded your smartphone with games. It’s a bit ironic, really. We spend hundreds of dollars on dedicated gaming handhelds and for whatever reason, some of us find our phones more appealing. There was a time when I might have scoffed at the notion that my phone would replace my DSi or PSP, but that’s simply no longer the case. While I can still count on a deep, involved, experience with one of those $30 to $40 titles, more often than not, I’ll pick up my phone for a quick game of whatever cheap thrill the app store has to offer. With hundreds of apps available for almost too reasonable price, determining which system gets my attention for the evening can be an easy decision. So, why not try to improve that experience? That’s where the iControlpad comes in.
It looks as though Fox may finally be ready to move on their plans to produce two back-to-back sequels for their 1996 sci-fi hit, Independence Day. It’s no secret that Sony’s been eyeing the project since earlier this year, but with the scripts finally penned, and Roland Emmerich’s schedule free and clear for the foreseeable future — his latest film, Anonymous hit theaters last weekend — its looking more and more likely. Will Smith hasn’t committed to reprising his role as Captain Steven Hiller, but that doesn’t rule out the possibility. Smith’s reportedly asking for $50 million, and budgetary concerns may prevent that. However, judging by the runaway success of the first film, Fox might justify cutting a big enough check. Either way, the show will go on, with or without him. Of course, that begs the question, do we even need Will Smith, or these sequels for that matter?
This is shaping up to be a good week for fans of Davies’ Whoneverse. In addition to the hilarious wrap party videos that recent hit the net, Weta Workshop has decided to discount several pieces from their Doctor Who product line. The first is this killer replica of a Dalek as originally designed for the series one episode “Dalek,” featuring Christopher Eccleston. While Christopher’s time as the Doctor was short lived, that episode remains memorable as the first appearance of the Daleks since Davies had revived the series and paved the way for their eventual return in future seasons. The prop measures roughly a foot in height and normally retails for $225. If you order from Weta’s online shop before November 4th, you can save 50% and pick one up for only $112.50. Not too bad if you ask me.
There are times I just miss David Tennant. His time on Doctor Who just never seemed long enough, and while I like Matt Smith just fine, he’s still not the Doctor many of us grew to love. Here’s one of the recently released videos from the Tennant & Davies wrap party a few years back. It’s a cute little musical number about former show-runners Davies and Gardner, featuring John Barrowman, Cathrine Tate and David Tennant. If you’ve never heard Barrowman sing, you’re in for a bit of a treat. David’s immaculate as always, but personally, I could do without Cathrine Tate. Then again, I think that was the whole point of her being on the show in the first place. Regardless, it was a fantastic way to say thank for everything Davies and Gardner did for the series, don’t you think?
Posted by Tim Sheehy on Oct 31, 2011 in Comic Books
Check out this stunning take on the Dark Knight’s Batsuit. This custom suit, recently posted on TheEffectsLab.com’s forum, and designed by X Workz studios, borrows its design from Rocksteady’s Arkham series of games. The recently released Batman: Arkham City has been receiving rave reviews and has been one of the most anticipated titles of the year. While Arkham City has a very gritty and dark atmosphere, the character designs don’t stray too far from the comics. It’s a stark contrast to Nolan’s films, all of which might come across as trying too hard, or two little depending on who you ask, but I digress. This is some incredibly impressive work. If you’d like to get in touch with the designer, you can e-mail them or check the original post for more photos and information.
Here’s some of the coolest wedding invitations I’ve ever seen. Artist and graphic designer Larry Quach recently crafted these one-of-a-kind invitations for his friend’s wedding. Seeing as the entire wedding was Super Mario Brothers-themed, he went out of his way to include everything from the actual invitations to the party favors and even threw together a custom seating chart for the occasion. I’m incredibly impressed with the amount of work that must have went into it, but Larry did a bang up job, and it really shows.
Check out that scowl. Here’s a look at Medicom’s Han Solo Ultimate Unison collectible figure. At just under a foot tall — 30 centimeters to be exact — this posable figure comes complete with everything you need to re-enact your favorite scenes from the films. Well, almost everything. He’s got his blaster, the removable camo jacket from Return of the Jedi and even his breathing apparatus from the asteroid sequence in Empire Strikes Back. He even comes with interchangeable hands. Unfortunately, the scowl has to stay. At least they did a fantastic job of capturing Harrison Ford’s handsome visage — even if he looks a little like Vigo the Carpathian. I just wish they had spent as much time touching up the rest of his skin to match, after all, the list price is set at ¥25,800, or $340 USD. For that price, you’d think they’d throw in a Wookie while they’re at it. Assuming you have the credits to afford one, you can pre-order it at AmiAmi, but don’t worry, you have plenty of time. The figure won’t be shipping until June 2012. Read more…
It’s been tough times for Netflix. Between the whole Qwikster debacle, price changes, and inability to renew their contract with Starz, many subscribers have decided to move on to greener pastures. Those who’ve stayed are banking on Netflix to provide fresh content despite the recent setbacks. Fortunately for us, they’re trying.
Somehow, I’m not surprised. The other day, I made reference to Uwe Boll and his knack for ruining films while discussing George Lucas’ recent Star Wars edits. In all fairness, Lucas really shouldn’t be compared to Boll, a one-time recipient of the Razzies’ “Worst Career Achievement” award. As much as I take issue with Lucas, I don’t believe anyone has ever started a serious petition to have to him retire. In this amazing clip, we hear from Guinevere Turner, the writer who had the unfortunate experience of having worked with Boll on the first live-action adaptation of Majesco’s BloodRyane franchise. According to Turner, the film went into production with a first draft, of which only twenty percent ended up on screen. Not surprising considering the film, with an estimated budget of twenty-five million, only managed a meager three and a half million at the box office.
Posted by Tim Sheehy on Oct 25, 2011 in Dr. Who, Fandom
It’s true. Recently, ThinkGeek updated their catalog with a few Doctor Who cosplay goodies — officially licensed replicas of both Tennant’s overcoat and Smith’s pleated plaid jacket. It wasn’t long before both items sold out completely, and while you can still put an order with them, you can forget about getting it in time for Halloween. Fortunately, there’s still a chance. You can order the items directly from the manufacturer, instead. Abbyshot.com not only carries the Coat and Jacket, but will even throw in a free bow tie for ordering it directly. Read more…
Earlier today, LucasFilm released the official trailer for Star Wars Episode I: The Phantom Menace 3D. I’d post it here, but 20th Century Fox has spent most of the day removing it from YouTube. Besides, you’re not missing out on much since it only displays in 2D. That said, I’m not sure how many of you are really looking forward to seeing it again in 3D, especially given Lucas’ penchant for altering his films. Arguably, I don’t think The Phantom Menace could get any worse, but if anyone were to find a way, it’d be him — or Uwe Boll. Still, there still seems to be a market for these 3D conversions, so I’m sure there are some of you out there who just can’t wait. I’m skeptical, and just curious enough to give it a chance myself, and if the film ends looking good enough, I’m sure I’ll see the rest when they eventually hit the original saga. Sorry, I just don’t have any love of Anakin. If you still want to see the trailer, click here. Star Wars Episode I: The Phantom Menace 3D opens nationwide on February 10th.
I honestly haven’t had many reasons to pick up my 3DS in recent months. It’s not that it’s a terrible platform by any means, but Nintendo’s 3D handheld is currently suffering a bit of a dry spill. There isn’t much in the way of software, and while they’ve shown us plenty of exciting titles at recent trade shows, almost all of them have yet to be released. There have been a few good offerings so far, but most of those are just updates of classics like Star Fox 64 and Zelda: Ocarina of Time — experiences we’ve already had. So what do we have in the meantime? So far, its been Netflix and a handful of virtual console/DSi ware releases. Fortunately, you’ll finally have another reason to pick it up, and some of you can even dust off your Wii while you’re at it. Hulu Plus will be headed to both platforms by the end of the year, allowing you to stream hours of anime, television, and film such as Persona 4: The Animation and the critically acclaimed Criterion Collection for only $7.99 a month.
Anyone remember that mid-90s action flick, Face/Off? You know, the one where Travolta and Cage swap faces for whatever reason. I always thought it was kind of ironic that even though they’re supposed to have only swapped faces, it was pretty much their entire bodies — it’s not as if they have the same build. Any way, take that concept, throw in some Disney and you’ll have yourself a hilarious Tumblr account. Disney Face Swap is a collection of ‘shopped’ images featuring one or more characters from our favorite Disney classics. The curator not only posts his own swaps, but also accepts fan submissions, so its updated frequently. The images themselves range from hilarious to outright disturbing, but they’re all work safe and, I guarantee they’ll keep you entertained throughout the day.
Here’s a odd bit of news. Several outlets have reported that Christopher Nolan may be planning to shoot footage of the Occupy Wallstreet protests for his latest film, The Dark Knight Rises. The cast and crew will be spending two weeks filming in the big apple this month, and have apparently been told its a possibility. Personally, I’m not sure how legit it is, but if Nolan were to actually go through with those plans, it would be pretty ironic. After all, many of those protesters are having trouble finding decent jobs, but as one journalist put it, they’ll suddenly find themselves employed as unpaid extras. I’m sure that thought didn’t even cross his mind, so I hope that if he does decide to film the scenes, the message won’t get lost. If anything, I hope it helps to further cause, even if its simply to document it. Sadly, that might be more publicity than anyone has bothered to give the protesters to date.
This will either be the most terrifying or magnificent thing you’ll see all day. It’s certainly no “Rocket Man,” but Shatner’s spoken-word cover of Queen’s “Bohemian Rhapsody,” could be just as campy — at least, the music video certainly is. I’m not sure how I’d go about explaining the premise, but it starts with a couple who are spending their evening stargazing. Suddenly Shatner’s face materializes in the night sky and everyone seems a little confused as to why, but rather than freak out, they just sort of let him do his thing. There’s some talking carps, a choir of goats, and some other random happenings culminating in Shatner’s latest album, Seeking Major Tom, crash landing to Earth. It’s truly bizarre, to say the least. Any way, if you’re looking to pick up a copy, you can purchase it via Amazon. I should also note, the album’s available in CD, MP3 or vinyl.
I’m impressed. Earlier this month, director Alex Albrecht threw together this live-action short entitled VOLTRON: The End, starring Psych‘s Timothy Omundson. I have no idea if this was meant as some sort of series or film pitch, or if it was just something he decided to do for fun, but it’s pretty awesome. The idea of a Voltron live-action film never really crossed my mind, but having seen this, I certainly wouldn’t object. I also want to know how he landed Omundson for the role of Lance. He’s not exactly a huge star, but he is a series regular on a popular show that’s currently airing. If I had to venture a guess, I’d say his involvement was either a favor, or Omundson is just a fan of the animated series. You’d almost have to be to want to film this, wouldn’t you? Either way, it’s pretty cool that he’d take the time to contribute to the short. Let’s hope something good materializes from it.
