More pictures from the set of 'The Dark Knight Rises' - and why they bother me

Too many Bat-toys?

You know what I disliked most about Christopher Nolan's first Batman movie? You don't care, but I am going to tell you anyway.

The Batmobile. Or Bat-Tank. Or whatever you want to call it.

The legend of Batman is about the character - the hero cloaked in darkness both literal and figurative. Patrolling as a shadowy figure on the rooftops and in the alleys of Gotham City at night makes him as real as the evil that he has sworn over his parents' graves to fight. Put him behind the wheel of even the most bad-ass of crime-fighting vehicles and part of me expects him to pull into the local Dunkin' Donuts for some late night brew, a Danish and to flirt with the waitress.

The 'official' synopsis for 'The Dark Knight Rises'

Christian Bale and his cowled alter ego return in 2012.

Cosmic Book News is reporting that it has a copy of the official plot synopsis for "The Dark Knight Rises." Maybe it is legitimate. Maybe not. But there is no doubt that it fits in with everything else we've head.

So here goes (minor spoilers, if you haven't been paying attention to the kazillion other spoiler posts on the movie)

"Every hero has a journey. Every journey has an end. Christopher Nolan returns to complete the epic Gotham trilogy that launched with Batman Begins and reached the stratosphere with the billion-dollar blockbuster The Dark Knight.

Greatest 'Dr. Who' video of all time! Turn it up to 11!

                               

David Tennant! Catherine Tate! Billie Piper! John Barrowman! Russell T. Davies! Elizabeth Sladen! Freema Agyeman! Timothy Dalton! John Simm! The Proclaimers!

And Sue from catering.

But would you believe the Ood steals the show?

The video shows the cast and crew of "Dr. Who" lip-syncing to the Proclaimers' "I'm Gonna Be (500 Miles)," part of a the wrap party entertainment as Tennant and Davies were departing the series.

Many thanks to BuzzFeed for the original post.

Enjoy.

No heat, power at the Knights office in South Hadley

But I may post a story or two from work - don't tell anyone!

The Scariest Horror Series on TV Now

Tis the season to be scared but what can you watch on TV to fit this bill?  Well, you could watch the news and see all the real terrors of our world.  If that is too gruesome (it is for me) then perhaps you can be mortified by all those reality programs such as Big Brother, Survivor and Jersey Shore or even scared by all the lack of talent in those types of shows.  But if you want to escape reality and the ‘fake reality” then cuddle up to one of these series on TV and be prepared to be scared, shocked, grossed out and terrorized.

Supernatural: Slash Fiction Review (Spoilers)

Two Leviathans have shape shifted into Dean and Sam and have gone on a killing spree.  Now the most wanted in the U.S. the real Dean and Sam must avoid being caught while putting a stop to the spree.

Spoilers

Blog Status

Excuse our lack of updates for the next couple of days.  Our contributors are from the Northeast and so are dealing with no power and no internet access.  Hopefully things be back to normal within a few days.

The Sonic Screwdriver

Happy Birthday Matt Smith!!!!

Today is Matt Smith's 29th Birthday.  Let's all wish the 11th Doctor a good one.

Happy Halloween!!!

You call these 'Man of Steel' spoilers? Really?

Sorry, Clark, but no one is stopping the presses for this news.

When is a spoiler not a spoiler?

How about when it's so obvious, that any comic book movie geek worth their weight in MacGuffins could figure it out?

Cosmic Book News is teasing us with the following headline: "Superman: Man of Steel (2013): Exclusive Movie Climax Details."

And the big secret is ....

at the end of the movie, Superman fights the bad guys.

Matt Smith on his future as Dr. Who: 'I don't want to give it up'

Matt Smith is not ready to ride off into the sunset just yet.

Calm down, Whovians.

Rumors of Matt Smith's end as Dr. Who apparently were greatly exaggerated.

The Who Universe nearly exploded last week with stories that Matt Smith had hinted he had just one year of Dr. Who left in him before pursuing other acting opportunities in Los Angeles.

Not so fast, according to Dr. Who TV. Smith offered an entirely different take in an interview promoting the "Series 6" DVD::

“We work very long hours every day for nine months. The schedule is pretty brutal, but I’d never complain about it. I love playing this role, and I don’t want to give it up anytime soon.

“I feel very lucky. In the current climate for actors, I’d never say, ‘This is too much’ – quite the opposite, in fact. I’d say, ‘Bring it on’.”

Cool Jack O'Lanterns

Here is a collection of Sci-Fi and Fantasy Jack O'Lanterns from various sites including - 

http://www.exophrine.com/2010/10/geek-o-lanterns.html

Steven Moffat on DWC Cancellation

In his monthly article for Doctor Who Magazine Steven Moffat addressed the cancellation of Doctor Who Confidential.  He stated

"I’m not supposed to say it, but I’m going to anyway: Bad day, bad decision ... I know we’re all at sea and the night is colder but you don’t start burning the lifeboats to keep warm."

"All shows have their time and all shows end but not, in all sanity, while people still watch and love them."

So if you like Dr Who Confidential there is still time to sign the petition at this link

 http://www.petitionbuzz.com/petitions/savedwc

Shada To Be Released In 2012

The aborted Doctor Who story written by Douglas Adams and would have been the last story for season 17 will see what exists on DVD sometime in 2012.  It was announced earlier this week on twitter from ClassicDW:                                                                                        

Plans are to release the SHADA fragments together with MORE THAN THIRTY YEARS in a box filled with other content goodies! Likely 2012.

And for fans of the Zygons it is not expected to see release in 2012 so maybe for the 50th this cult classic and pretty good Tom Baker story will finally get released.

Dr Who Series 6 Soundtrack Release Info

It was announced on Twitter that Series 6 soundtrack will be released in the UK on December 5,2011.  No word on a North America release date but I'm sure it will be shortly after the UK release.  Silva Screens plans on releasing a two disc set.

Henry Cavill - shirtless, again



"I don't care if the trunks are missing. I want my supersuit back!"

 More pictures of Henry Cavill with his shirt off as he films scenes for "Man of Steel?" Why not? These come courtesy of ComingSoon.net.The film itself won't hit theaters until June.

John Barrowman doubts Captain Jack will return to Dr. Who

Waiting for a reunion? Don't hold your breath.

You want it.

He wants it.

We want it.

But it still may not happen. In fact, John Barrowman, who parlayed a guest appearance on "Dr. Who" into his own series, "Torchdwood," doubts Capt. Jack Harkness will ever return to the show that gave birth to the immortal from the future. As he told David Bentley of The Coventry Telegraph:

"Everybody keeps asking me and if I'm offered I would love to. I think it would be great. There is no plan to do that. No one has come forward. I don't think it'll happen. I'm always open for it, but who knows?"

Dr. Seuss Meets Dr. Who



Courtesy of Film.

AMC Renews The Walking Dead For Third Season

AMC has announced today that it has renewed The Walking Dead for a third season.  This is a no brainer as the rating have been through the roof (record breaking for cable TV) and it appears to be the most popular show on American TV.  The Walking Dead is a show based on Robert Kirkmans comic book series published by Image Comics.

Buffy, Angel, Firefly and Dollhouse Stars In Joss Whedon Shakespeare Movie

Avengers director Joss Whedon has found the time in his busy schedule to make a movie on one of Shakespeare plays.  Much Ado About Nothing is a comedy that Whedon filmed in 12 days with some of his friends from various shows he has done.  Here is a press release.

Caves of Androzani Peri and Sharez Jek Figures

The next classic Doctor Who action figures to be released will feature Peri and Sharez Jek from Caves of Androzani.  Caves of Androzani is of course that classic story that featured Peter Davison as The Doctor for the last time.

Peter Davison Happy To Return For 50th Anniversary Of Dr Who

I found this tidbit over at Kasterborous.  They are saying in a interview that the 5th Doctor Peter Davison would be happy to come back as The Doctor in a 50th Anniversary Celebration.   He was quoted as saying

I feel no need to turn my back on it, but I don’t feel like it’s the kind of thing they’d do. I’d be very surprised if they tried to do anything involving the old Doctors because it always takes a slight stretch of the imagination anyway to figure out why the previous Doctors look older but I’m sure that can be done at the same time I’m not sort of longing on it. I’m perfectly happy to have played my part to go back to ‘Time Crash’. I don’t feel like I’m hanging on a phone call from the ‘Doctor Who’ offices saying let’s do something special.

Well lets hope they do something with the past Doctors even if it is for Children In Need or something.  Well we can keep our fingers crossed.

The Three Musketeers Movie Review (Spoilers)

In the spirit of going out to the movies as a family we head to one of the 3 multiplexes near where I live. (Who would have thought that a small farm town would have so many movie theatres near him) The Family decided to see the new foray into the legend of The Three Musketeers.  Well after seeing the trailer a few times I'm sure this is not what Alexander Dumas had in mind when he

Once Upon a Time - Early Thoughts (Spoilers)

Yesterday I visited Storytown, Maine. I was intrigued on how ABC’s TV series about the cursed fantasy characters being caught in the real world would be handled.  A world of characters such as Snow White, Jiminy Cricket and Rumplestiltskin is cursed by the Evil Queen.  This curse propels the inhabitants of the fantasy world into our real world, Storytown, Maine.  Trapped their in the town and in time (no one ages), the characters have all lost their memory and live more mundane lives.

Spoilers

Catherine Tate returning to 'The Office'

From T.A.R.D.I.S. to NBC

No longer a companion to Doctor Who, actress Catherine Tate has landed a new gig.

Tate is returning to "The Office" in February, reprising her role of Nellie Bertram, who was introduced as a possible replacement for Michael Scott during last season's finale. Nellie did not get that job, but she will be appearing for a story arc during the February "sweeps" period, according to TVLine.

About the sci fi show's Donna Noble, Paul Liberstein, the show's executive producer and star, said in a statement: "Catherine is hysterical. We introduced her briefly in last season's finale and knew she had to be a part of the show somehow. We'll meet her again as corporate's special projects manager, and her relationship with Robert California (James Spader) will be far from professional. We're thrilled that she's joining the cast."

Once Upon a Time - Preview

Here are some links for Once Upon a Time, which premieres on ABC tonight at 8pm.

Information -

http://beta.abc.go.com/shows/once-upon-a-time?CID=SEM_N_OUT

Review -

http://www.chicagotribune.com/entertainment/tv/redeye-once-upon-a-time-review-fairy-tale-story-as-charming-as-prince-20111022,0,2033189.story

Today Is The Last Spooks Episode Ever!!!!

Today is the last time that BBC spy and espionage show Spooks (MI5 in the USA) will air ever.  Tonight episode finishes the 10th series and ties up a good 6 part series 10.  Hopefully the fates of Ruth and Harry will have a happy ending but in true Spooks style I have my doubts.   I have thoroughly enjoyed all ten series of Spooks through all the cast changes and sub par stories but I will miss this show.  One thing that has been constant in the 10 series, besides the excellently written stories and series long arcs,  is the excellent portrayal of Harry Pierce by Peter Firth.  So goodbye Spooks it was a hell of a ride and you will be missed.

Supernatural – Shut Up, Dr. Phil Review (Spoilers)

Sam seems eager to take on a new investigation of mysterious deaths. Could there be witch at work in a small town in Indiana?

Spoilers

'Gigantor' and Jimmy Sparks may be reunited again

Remember "Gigantor?"

Yes, I am old. Why do you ask?

Anyway, the 1960s Japanese cartoon about a boy who controls a giant robot to protect the world may be on its way to the big screen, according to Michelle Ealey at sciencefiction.com. Director Bryan Barber recently purchased the rights to the series. His goal is to raise $60 million for a live-action feature film.

As Ealey notes, because Barber now possesses all rights to the character, he is in the unusual position of having total control of not only the movie, but other potential revenue streams - toys, video games, etc. - as well.

Look out, Transformers. Jimmy Sparks and Gigantor may soon be taking over a theater near you.

Is Series 7 of Dr Who Matt Smith's Last????

This  was brought to my attention by my friend on twitter  @Cloister_Belle.  It appears that backstage of the Spke Awards Matt Smith hinted at moving on to Hollywood when he is done with 14 episodes he is contracted for.    Matt Smith has said he would be around for the 50th Anniversary but he never said if he would be the Doctor during that season or eluding to a guest role in a 50th anniversary story.  Anyway Doctor Who TV has a video on their site with Matt Smith discusing a move to LA.  Take this for what's it worth as this is only speculation and not fact.

Trailer For Next Fridays Fringe "Peter's Back"

Since this Friday's Fringe is a repeat because of the World Series Fringe will be back October 28.  We will have to wait one more week to see how Peter's return affects the Fringe Team.

The Punisher TV series

Fox is working on a pilot of the popular Marvel character, The Punisher. Ed Bernero (Third Watch), is attached to the project which will see police officer Frank Castle be both a police officer in the day, and moonlights as the vigilante at night.  Not sure how he can do both and still be called The Punisher.

Fox is also developing The Spectre, based on the DC character.

Ed Bernero is pushing an idea to ABC called The Eye.  This series would take place in the 1800's and would follow the paranormal investigations of the Pinkerton Detectives in the old west.

Zombieland Series in the Works

Writers of the 2009 movie Zombieland are working on a TV series with Fox Television.  The proposed idea has been shuffled around as early as 2005 but because of The Walking Dead's popularity, Fox seems interested in the project.  If the series happens it would kill the plans for a movie sequel that Columbia Pictures had been mulling around.

The series would follow different characters from the movie and be a half hour each episode with a special "Zombie Kill of the Week."

Source: http://nymag.com/daily/entertainment/2011/10/zombieland_tv_show.html

The Sarah Jane Adventures: More like Doctor Who than Doctor Who!!!

After finishing watching the final episode of The Sarah Jane Adventures and wiping the tears from my face I look back at this series and what was so good about it.

Synopsis For The 2011 Dr Who Christmas Special

In the new Dr Who Magazine there is a cast list and and a brief synopsis of this years Christmas Special.

 The special, set during the Second World War, sees Madge Arwell and her two children, Lily and Cyril, evacuated to a draughty old house in Dorset, where the caretaker is a mysterious young man in a bow tie, and a big blue parcel is waiting for them under the tree. They are about to enter a magical new world and learn that a Time Lord never forgets his debts.

Claire Skinner - Madge Arwell
Alexander Armstrong - Reg Arwell
Maurice Cole - Cyril Arwell
Holly Earl - Lily Arwell
Arabella Weir - Billis
Bill Bailey - Dorxil
Paul Bazely - Ven-Garr

North America Dr Who DVD Release Dates

Here is a list of the upcoming DVD release schedule up to February.

DOCTOR WHO DVDS
Doctor Who: Colony in Space, (November 8, 2011)
Doctor Who: Series 6, Part 2, (November 8, 2011)
Doctor Who: COMPLETE Series 6, (November 22, 2011)
Doctor Who: Invasion of the Dinosaurs (January 10, 2012)
Doctor Who: The Android Invasion (January 10, 2012)
Doctor Who: The Sensorites (February 14, 2012)
Doctor Who: The Caves of Androzani Special Edition (February 14, 2012)

Sarah Jane Adventures: Season 4 (December 6, 2011)

New trailer for 'Sherlock Holmes: Game of Shadows'

Before we get into the inevitable debate of who would win a fight between Robert Downey Jr.'s Tony Stark and Sherlock Holmes, let's just enjoy the new trailer for 'Sherlock Holmes: Game of Shadows," which introduces a new adventure and the detective's ultimate foe, Professor Moriarty (Jared Harris).

Jude Law is back as the faithful and dry-witted Dr. Watson. They are joined by Noomi Rapace, who starred in the Swedish "The Girl With the Dragon Tattoo' trilogy.

If you don't mind some mild spoilers, the official synopsis follows the jump.

Justice League: Doom Trailer

Here is a trailer for the next DC animation release.  It is Justice League: Doom.  What is cool about it is that Kevin Conroy returns as the voice of Batman.

Doctor Who Magazine 440 Tribute To Liz Sladen Issue

Out Now is the tribute issue for Elisabeth Sladen.  Much in the same vein as  the Nicholas Courtney Tribute issue that was released early this year.

Watch every Dr. Who regeneration

Here's one way to catch up on all reincarnations of Dr. Who in just a little more than 10 minutes, compiled into one video Brian Rimmer. Special thanks to The Mary Sue.

Dan Abnett Author of "Dr Who: The Silent Stars Go By" Interview From NYCC

One of the highlights of my trip to NYCC was meeting Dan Abnett and conducting an interview with him.    For those who don't know Dan Abnett, he just completed a new Doctor Who hardcover novel, "The Silent Stars Go By."  This book features the 11th Doctor, Amy and Rory. It also heralds the return of the Ice Warriors.  His other Doctor Who works include the BBC Book "The Story of Martha," the two Big Finish Audio Adventures "The Harvest" and "Nocturne" featuring the 7th Doctor and for BBC Audio the 10th Doctor stories "The Forever Trap" and "Last Voyage".  He is also a part of the New 52 for DC Comics with Resurrection Man.   For a full list of the many books and comics that Dan Abnett has written check them out at the following link. Dan Abnett Bibliography


At this time I would like to thank Dan Abnett for his time and for allowing me to do this interview with him  at NYCC.  If you would like more info on Dan Abnett you can check out his blogsite at http://theprimaryclone.blogspot.com/    or his website at http://www.danabnett.com/Main%20room.htm  or more simply you can follow him on Twitter @VincentAbnett

Now for the interview.



NYCC Saturday and Sunday

Saturday was a crazy and extremely busy day.  NYCC was full to the hilt with people all converging on the Jacob Javitts Center.  To say the least walking around the convention was extremely challenging at times.  But that was not a problem for the veteran con goer.  I found it a

'Batman: Year One' review

Mr. Gordon, meet Mr.Bat.

This is easy.

If you liked the 1987 comic book series of stories from Frank Miller and David Mazzucchelli, you're going to love this animated adaptation from Bruce Timm.

If you've never read what was officially known as "Year One," you're going to like it anyway.

Is it faithful to the series? Very.

Is it perfect? No. We missed the gravelly voice of Kevin Connroy as the Caped Crusader.

What makes it special? More than a Batman origin story, it offers insight into the character of Lt. James Gordon - in particular, his introduction to the seedy world of Gotham City police work and his own questionable morality. After all, almost anyone can recite the Batman origin from heart. The story of Gordon adds another human element to the legacy.

Video of Matt Smith on Last Night's Late Late Show with Craig Ferguson

Out Today Batman Year One Animated Movie

Out today is the new DC Animated movie Batman: Year One based on the comic book story by Frank Miller.  There is also a Catwoman short with it also starring Eliza Dushku as the voice of Catwoman.

Video Of Avengers Movie Panel NYCC

Get DC Comics in Big G Cereal Announced at NYCC

 (Diane Bondareff / AP Images for General Mills)

It appears if you like cereal and comics then you are in luck as it appears that General Mills and DC Comics have joined forces.  They appear to be original stories featuring Justice League Super Heroes so how cool is that breakfast and comics.  You can read the press release here.
http://dcu.blog.dccomics.com/2011/10/17/general-mills-and-dc-entertainment-join-forces-to-promote-reading-among-children/

Dan Jurgens & Keith Giffen New Creative Team on Superman Announced at NYCC



Cover for Superman 1.  The Book the new team will be on with issue 7

At NYCC it was announced that Dan Juregens will be taking over writing duties and Keith Giffen will be taking over illustrating Superman with issue 7.  They take over for comics legend George Perez.  The pair will be coming over from Green Arrow after a 3 part story.  The two had this to say.

"In my mind, Superman is still the first and best,” said Jurgens. “He is the premier character in comics. As a writer, the thing I like best about Superman is the incredibly wide parameter of stories that suit him. Whether it’s a cosmic enemy that threatens the entire planet or a next door neighbor who’s confronted with an incredible moral dilemma, Superman is at home with both and everything in between. As an artist, the thing I like is the sense of power and integrity Superman embodies. There’s something about drawing that majestic figure in flight with the cape and classic ‘S’ shield that will always be a kick. Working with Keith Giffen, one of the most creative guys in comics, who comes up with more ideas in five minutes than most guys do in a week, is the topper. I can’t wait to get started.”

"Are you kidding? It’s SUPERMAN! The sky is the limit!” said Giffen. “I don’t care what anyone says, Superman is DC’s flagship title and Dan and I are going to sweat blood to make sure that everyone out there knows why. The sense of wonder that defined the character for so long is, most definitely, coming back. Big time."

Shazam To Return In New 52 Announced At NYCC

One of the big news that was announced by DC Comics was that Shazam will be returning in DC's new 52.  It will be written by Geoff Johns (Aquaman, Green Lantern, Justice League) and illustrated by Gary Frank.  The Curse of Shazam will be a backup story in Justice League which is also written by Geoff Johns and illustrated by Jim Lee.  This is great as I like Shazam and it is pretty cool that DC is bringing back the back up stories as they were pretty good in the 80's.

Matt Smith Wins At Scream Awards

Matt Smith won Best Science Fiction Actor this weekend at the taping of the Scream Awards which will be aired on Spike TV on Tuesday October 18 .

Expect 'Ghost Rider' sequel to be 'darker, nastier, meaner'

Let's face it. The 2007 film "Ghost Rider" did not exactly set the cinematic world on fire. (Well, Eva Mendes was hot.)

So what can fans expect from the sequel, "Ghost Rider: Spirit of Vengeance," again starring Nicolas Cage in the title role?

Speaking at New York Comic Con over the weekend, writer Mark Neveldine and director Brian Taylor promised a darker tale that is more in line with the Marvel Comic books, according to Travis Walecka of Hero Complex:

“It will be more like a horror film than an episode of ‘Cops,’ ” Neveldine said ...

... The lively panel underlined how much the filmmakers enjoy their reputation for risk-taking stunt work and high-adrenaline antics. Neveldine said he set a decree that if anyone broke a bone on set, it would go into the movie. He added: “We crashed a lot of cars, busted a lot of gasoline cans, and broke a lot of bones.”

Supernatural – Defending Your Life (Mild Spoilers)

Are you guilty? Well, watch out for the Egyptian God Osirus because he's in town putting people on trial for things they feel guilty about and Dean Winchester is up next.

Live! From New York! It's Comic Con!

Felicia Day

You couldn't make it to New York Comic Con?

We've got our own man at the scene, so check the site for first-person updates.

Or click here for video coverage from New York Comic Con, courtesy of Newsarama. They've got everyone from Stan Lee to Felicia Day, as well as live video of panels.

Excelsior, indeed.

Oh, you want more? Try clicking here for live coverage from Comic Book Resources.

Or here for IGN.

How about here for MTV Geek?

You're not going to get any work done today, are you?

Twilight Zone Movie

A new Twilight Zone movie is in the early stages with Matt Reeves (Cloverfield) directing and Leonardo DiCaprio producing.  No other info is available.  The movie will be based on the 60's TV series by Rod Serling.

It will be good to see a movie with Twilight in the title and not have it be about Vampires!!

Source - Aintitcoolnews and Variety

The Thing vs. The Thing - 2011 vs 1982 (Mild Spoilers)

Is The Thing (2011) a worthy prequel to the 1982 The Thing and is it a movie that will potentially kick off the franchise into the next decade? Well, I am not so sure about that....

Mild Spoilers with heavier spoilers marked toward the end....

NYCC Friday

On a rainy Friday in New York City the hordes descended on the Javits Center to partake in NYCC.  There were geeks of all genders, size and age.  Friday was a pretty cool day as the fans got their Geek On and I was no exception.  At first I was blown away at the new Marvel booth that was designed ,obviously, to look like a Shield Headquarters with an Avengers theme.  It was impressive site to see and pretty loud to.  In fact it was pretty awesome.  It took some time to get acclimated to my surroundings as I was easily distracted by all the booths with tons of neat stuff to buy or to look at.

The highlight of Friday was meeting Luke Skywalker himself Mark Hamill.  Mark Hamill had a long line,as one could imagine, but it moved pretty briskly.  The other highlight of the day was hanging around artist alley and talking to the many creators that write and draw the books we love.  plus there are a lot of independents selling there books trying to reach out to a bigger audience.  It is always good to check them out as you might find something cool.  Plus you never know if you stumble upon the next big thing.  NYCC this Friday was pretty packed.  As could be expected they are expecting 100,000 people this weekend.  The DC booth had some pretty good signings and it was packed as well.  In all Friday was pretty awesome and Saturday looks even better with the Avengers making an appearance.  It is gonna be crazy.