Babylon 5 ISN News: The Zocalo Today
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The Zocalo Today
Welcome and thank you for dropping by. Babylon 5 brought many of us together -- and it remains with us, despite the fact that is no longer in production. The good thing is that
the internet gives a LOT of ways to stay in touch. Don't be shy. Join in the discussion today or
drop by my blog! You can also find me on FaceBook and Twitter.
If you have questions or items for the news, drop me a line at sgbruckner@aol.com.
Again, WELCOME!
SUNDAY, JANUARY 23, 2011
WEEKEND BOX OFFICE
The Hollywood Reporter writes that Natalie Portman continued to score at the box office as her new R-rated romantic
comedy NO STRINGS ATTACHED opened No. 1 on Friday with an estimated gross of $7.3 million from 3,018 theaters.
The Paramount pic, directed by Ivan Reitman and also starring Ashton Kutcher, bested Sony’s 3D holdover THE GREEN
HORNET, which grossed roughly $5.1 million from 3,584 theaters for a cume of $50.4 million in its eighth day in
release.
NO STRINGS ATTACHED is poised to win the weekend, judging from Friday’s performance, and is looking like a win for
Paramount.
Portman’s BLACK SWAN, from Fox Searchlight, placed No. 6 on Friday, grossing an estimated $1.8 million for a cume of
$79.1 million.
Universal’s Vince Vaughn/Kevin James comedy THE DILEMMA placed No. 3 on Friday, grossing an estimated $3 million from
2,943 theaters for a cume of $26.6 in its eighth day.
A pack of awards frontrunners, including SWAN, took the next three spots on the top 10 box office chart.
The Weinstein Co.’s THE KING'S SPEECH and Paramount’s TRUE GRIT all but tied on Friday, each grossing roughly $2.1
million, although KING'S SPEECH came in slightly ahead to take the No. 4 spot.
KING'S SPEECH-- likely boosted by Colin Firth’s Golden Globe win -- jumped the $50 million mark with a new cume of
$51.6 million. TRUE GRIT’s cume through Friday was $132.8 million.
Like KING'S SPEECH, SWAN could be helped at the box office by Portman’s Golden Globe victory.
SATURDAY, JANUARY 22, 2011
DE NIRO DRAMA COMING TO TV
Robert De Niro may have been a little jealous of longtime friend and collaborator Martin Scorsese when he took
home best dramatic series at the Golden Globes for his "Boardwalk Empire" -- the actor is now trying his hand
at TV himself.
According to Deadline, De Niro, his Tribeca productions partner Jane Rosenthal and "The Color of Money" writer
Richard Price have sold a one-hour drama pilot to CBS.
Never straying too far from the subjects near and dear to him, the De Niro produced "Rookies" is about six freshman
NYPD cops balancing their personal lives with the stress of their job.
If it goes to series, it will mark join "Blue Bloods" and "CSI: NY" as the third drama on CBS about New York cops.
MERCURY MEN
With the success of digital series Riese: Kingdom Falling, a NEW sci-fi web series will be coming soon to Syfy.com—
The Mercury Men, inspired by the same retro serials that gave us Star Wars and Indiana Jones.
Here's Syfy's official announcement:
MARKING MAJOR EXPANSION OF ORIGINAL DIGITAL CONTENT FOLLOWING THE SUCCESS OF RIESE: KINGDOM FALLING, SYFY.COM
ANNOUNCES NEW SCI-FI WEB SERIES THE MERCURY MEN DEBUTS IN EARLY 2011
RIESE: KINGDOM FALLING DELIVERS MORE THAN ONE MILLION STREAMS IN JUST TWO MONTHS
NEW YORK - January 21, 2011 - Following the enormous success of the series Riese: Kingdom Falling - which generated
1.2 million streams in only two months - Syfy.com will expand its original digital content slate with the 10-part
THE MERCURY MEN, it was announced today by Craig Engler, Senior Vice President/General Manager, Syfy Digital.
Created by acclaimed director Christopher Preksta (Captain Blasto), The Mercury Men (each episode runs approximately
seven minutes) will premiere exclusively in early 2011.
Said Engler: "Mercury Men is a phenomenal project and I think sci-fi fans and Syfy viewers are going to absolutely
love it. We've been following the series since Chris (Preksta) posted the first trailer online, and we're thrilled
to be able to work with him and host Mercury Men's worldwide debut on Syfy.com."
Drawing on the same retro serials that inspired films such as Star Wars and Indiana Jones, THE MERCURY MEN is set
in Pittsburgh in 1975. Edward Borman (Mark Tierno/The Road, Day of the Dead), a lowly government office drone, finds
himself trapped when the deadly Men of Mercury seize the building as a staging ground for their nefarious plot.
Aided by Jack Yaeger (Curt Wootten/Captain Blasto, The Hidden Blade), a daring aerospace engineer from a mysterious
organization known as "The League," and Grace (Amy Staggs/Friday Night Lights, Death Proof), who was only at the
building to get a government form stamped, Edward must stop the invaders and their Doomsday Device, the Gravity
Engine.
THE MERCURY MEN is written and directed by Christopher Preksta, best known as the writer/director of Captain Blasto,
for which he was nominated for two Streamy Awards. His work has been showcased at prestigious events including the
Tribeca Film Festival and Comic-Con. Producer is Kati Lightholder.
RIESE: KINGDOM FALLING, narrated by Sanctuary star Amanda Tapping, premiered on Syfy.com on October 26.
WONDER WOMEN NEWS
The Hollywood Reporter reports that NBC has picked up David E. Kelley's WONDER WOMAN to pilot.
Kelley, who is behind the freshman legal drama HARRY'S LAW, had brought the project to the network once before,
but NBC reportedly passed due to executive reshuffling.
In an interview with Kelley during the Television Critics Assn. press tour earlier this month, he stated that it
was a possibility that WONDER WOMAN could land on the small screen soon.
"I think the likelihood is we'll see it next year," Kelley hinted to THR in mid-January. "I'm being optimistic but
I don't think I'm being unrealistic."
He noted that NBC would be a "good home for it." "I like to think of it as a smart script and I know [new NBC
programming chief Bob Greenblatt] responds to smart material," he said, adding that Wonder Woman would be a "real
complex woman and not just a superhero.
EXIT STRATEGY
According to the Hollywood Reporter, Fox has picked up another pilot.
EXIT STRATEGY, which stars Ethan Hawke, was written by David Guggenheim, with Alex Kurtzman and Roberto Orci producing
through 20th TV.
TRAINING DAY and SHOOTER director Antoine Fuqua is set to direct.
Hawke will play Eric Shaw in the drama Fox describes as a "high-octane action show about a CIA extraction team."
In addition to CBS' HAWAII FIVE-0 and FRINGE, Kurtzman and Orci is also behind Fox's upcoming LOCKE & KEY.
Fox previously picked up pilots from Tim Kring, Rob Thomas and two comedies from Sony TV.
NEW LEX LUTHOR FOR ALL-STAR SUPERMAN ANIMATED MOVIE
The WB conducted an interesting and intriguing Q&A with Anthony LaPaglia, the voice of Lex Luthor in ALL-STAR SUPERMAN,
the much-anticipated 10th entry in the popular, ongoing series of DC Universe Animated Original Movies coming
February 22, 2011 from Warner Home Video. Use this link to read the entire interview: Lex Luthor.
SCIENCE FICTION NEWS STORIES:
If you don't see what you are looking for here, check out the
News Archive. Here you'll find items from yesterday
and last month -- all that has been going on in the world of science fiction.
8:00pm on TNT
The Dark Knight (2008)
Batman has to keep a balance between heroism and vigilantism to fight a vile criminal known as the Joker, who
would plunge Gotham City into anarchy. Christian Bale, Heath Ledger, Aaron Eckhart, Michael Caine, Maggie
Gyllenhaal
9:00pm on FX
Hancock (2008)
A scruffy superhero protects the citizens of Los Angeles but leaves horrendous collateral damage in the wake of
every well-intentioned feat. Will Smith, Charlize Theron, Jason Bateman, Eddie Marsan, Jae Head
10:00pm on CBS
Hawaii Five-0-Episode: Kai e'e (NEW)
The head of the Tsunami Warning center disappears as the island is being evacuated for a major storm.
ON SYFY TONIGHT
9:00pm
Pirates of the Caribbean: Dead Man's Chest (2006)
Capt. Jack Sparrow must find a way to avoid the clutches of ghostly pirate Davy Jones and his crew or be damned
for all eternity. Johnny Depp, Orlando Bloom, Keira Knightley, Bill Nighy, Geoffrey Rush
ARTIFACTS FROM BEYOND THE RIM
LIMITED EDITION -- OFFER ENDS THURSDAY
This is a limited edition book. It is only available for ninety days. After January 20, 2011 this book in
both the black cover and the white will never be available again. Ever.
JMS's Handwritten Notes for Season One
See for yourself the ideas JMS originally planned to include...at the moment he thought of them. We include scans
of his original notes along with a transcription of what he wrote. (If you've ever seen JMS's handwriting, you'll
understand what a bonus this is.) These season one notes include --
* The two-part episode that was scrapped in favor of “A Voice in the Wilderness,” which includes an Earth
Alliance ambassador being stationed on B5
* The plot for the unproduced episode “Blockade”
* The original notes for "Quality of Mercy," which in his notes was called “The Resurrectionist”
For all the information on this book, go to B5Books.
P.S. If you want to see photos of JMS with Angelo Corsini, the Babylon 5 fan with B5 tattoos on his arm, visit
the Fans of J. Michael Straczynski facebook photo page or click here http://on.fb.me/anGTVp
KEEPING UP WITH CAST AND CREW
PAT TALLMAN CONVENTION NEWS
Pat Tallman (Lyta) will be on her way to Sydney and Adelaide, Australia at the end of February/early March. It is
Patty's first trip to Australia and she will be participating in Armageddon Expo 2011. For more information,
go to http://armageddonexpo.com/au/sydney-general-info/.
WALTER KOENIG JOINS WIZARD CON TOUR
Walter Koenig, Pavel Chekov from Star Trek, has joined the Wizard World Comic Con Tour with his next stop at New Orleans
Comic Con, January 29-30, 2011 at the New Orleans Ernest N. Morial Convention Center. Join tens of thousands of fans as
they celebrate Movies, Comics, Toys, Video Gaming, Games, TV, Anime, Manga, Horror, Wrestling, MMA, Original Art,
Collectibles & More!
JMS UPDATE
Here is the word from JMS Facebook page:
As reported: with the huge success of the Superman GN, DC wants to fast-track the next one. This will require a great
deal of care, requiring me to step back from scripting the monthlies to focus on this. Those stories will continue
to their conclusion, based on my outlines. I'm taking this opportunity to take a 1-5 year sabbatical from writing comics
to concentrate on GNs and miniseries.
Bill is inviting you to check out his brand new weekly radio show, "THE REAL GOOD RADIO HOUR with your
host Bill Mumy". We'll be listening to many different styles of music and learning about those who
pioneered them. "The Real Good Radio Hour" will air every Wednesday and Friday at 7 PM both Pacific
and Eastern time and can be heard weekly on KSAV.org.
Bill has a new place on FaceBook as well
http://www.myspace.com/billmumy. There you will find information about some of his new projects,
including a graphic novel LOST IN SPACE and a Star Trek novel with Peter David, "The Return of the Worthy."
NEW INTERVIEWS
Marc N. Kleinhenz has begun a series of interviews of the cast of BABYLON 5, one of the landmark television
shows in American history. Look back with them as they discuss their characters, their emotional evolution,
and their participation in television history.
BABYLON 5 PRESENCE ON FACEBOOK
I know a lot of you are already on FaceBook. However, I don't know if you knew how many other Babylon 5
folks have taken the plunge and opened FaceBook accounts. In fact, Pat Tallman has reopened her Fan Club
using FaceBook at the site. For a peek, go to
http://www.facebook.com/group.php?gid=45593318387. Claudia Christian has been really active -- sharing
pictures of her recent trips and letting us know about upcoming convention activities. J. Michael Straczynski
(JMS) has a FaceBook page as well as a new "Fans of J. Michael Straczynski" page. So check it out!
Here is a quote from J. Michael Straczynski about emotions. I had this theory that the more important and intimate the emotion, the fewer words are required
to express it.
First it's in dating: "Will you go out with me?" Six words.
"Honey, I care for you." Five words.
"You matter to me." Four words.
"I love you." Three words.
"Marry me." Two words.
But what's left? What's the one most important and intimate word you can ever say to somebody?
It's "goodbye."
While Andreas Katsulas (G'Kar), Rick Biggs (Dr. Franklin) and Tim Choate (Zathras) are no longer with us,
we will not forget their wonderful personalities and talent -- as well as their significant contributions
to the BABYLON 5 universe. Be sure to visit In Memory Of
for more information about memorial efforts.
Until we met again, in a place where no shadows fall.
BABYLON 5 BIRTHDAYS
January 9 - David Allen Brooks
January 24 - Peter Woodward
January 27 - Julie Caitlin Brown
January 27 - Tamilyn Tomita
Have I missed anyone? If you know the birthday of someone connected with Babylon 5, pass the
information along. We want to include everyone in our Happy Birthday Wishes.
DISCUSSION TOPIC AND ISN BLOG
OK, the new season has begun and we've had a taste of some of the new shows. What have you watched? What did you
like -- and not so much? A number of my favorites haven't premiered yet, but I thought FRINGE was awesome.
Join me on the ISN News Blog at
http://isnnews.blogspot.com. I’ll put in stuff that I think is interesting
for others to read about and I hope you will join in to discuss of the issues --
related to science fiction or not!
BABYLON PODCAST
Welcome to Show #222!
Tim relays a cryptic message from JMS, responding “Ask me again in April” to a question about whether or not
we’ll ever see any more new B5. Not helping… still chomping at the bit, here!
Toryn Farr asked @DelReySpectra via Twitter what it would take to get electronic editions of the B5 novels,
at least the miscellaneous trilogies that have gone out of print in an oddball pattern. The response wasn’t
encouraging, so Toryn has started a petition to garner a collection of names of people who still want these
books.
If you are a die-hard B5 fan, and for some reasons you haven’t purchased any previous B5 Script Books, get your
hands on “Artifacts from Beyond the Rim”. It will be available from B5 Books until January 20, 2011.
Deep Geeking: Tim, Summer and Bret discuss “The Memory of War”, and this one, in Tim’s estimation, disappoints.
Talk ranges from the music matching the dramatic sequences and falling short on the action sequences, the quality
of the CG scenes, and throwing the flag on gratuitous use of slow motion effects.
Discussion also touches upon the disappointment at the collapse of the show due to the complex situation surrounding
Crusade on TNT and later on SciFi Channel.
Catch up on all the podcasts at www.babylonpodcast.com.
MERLIN - THE COMPLETE SECOND SEASON
Availabe on DVD: January 18, 2011
Official Site URL: http://www.bbcamericashop.com
Synopsis:
Merlin is back with even more magic, adventure and romance as the young wizard struggles to protect Prince Arthur in
the perilous world of Camelot. While battling deadly assassins, mystical monsters and the most powerful sorcerers
Camelot has ever seen, Merlin must work harder than ever to conceal his unique abilities, as King Uther redoubles
his war against magic. And Merlin isn’t the only one whose destiny calls—Lady Morgana , Uther’s ward, discovers
dangerous secrets she dare not reveal; Lancelot returns, changing everything for both Gwen and Arthur; and King
Uther fall in love, little knowing that the charming Lady Catrina is secretly a hideous troll. And as Arthur
continues on his path from arrogant prince to the noble and just King Arthur of legend, we see the return of the
one prophesised to kill him—the mysterious druid boy, Mordred. Featuring exciting new villains, white-knuckle
stunt sequences, and spectacular CGI monsters, Merlin season two is more thrilling than ever.
ER: THE COMPLETE FOURTEENTH SEASON
Available on DVD: January 11, 2011
Synopsis:
At an ER party, Nurse Chuny Marquez recalls, “I still remember when Mark Green and Doug Ross were running the place.”
“Who?” asks a newcomer. So much has happened in 14 seasons, so many people have come and gone, but the chaos of saving
lives and the dedication of the people who make County General run remain. In this penultimate season of the powerful, award-winning series, personal tragedies threaten – and sometimes strengthen – relationships among the staff. And the
patients bring their own compelling stories. A boy genius diagnoses his mysterious illness, a cancer-ridden prison
doctor is haunted by the men he put to death, a woman arrives in the ER expecting her 13th baby. Triumph, loss,
tears, joy…next!
SAMANTHA: AN AMERICAN GIRL HOLIDAY
Available on DVD: January 7, 2011
Synopsis: The American Girl collection of books, dolls, and accessories makes its film debut in this inaugural title featuring bestselling character Samantha, in a live-action holiday story set in 1904. AnnaSophia Robb plays Samantha Parkington, a poised yet playful 9-year-old who lives with her wealthy grandmother (Mia Farrow) in a country estate
after the untimely death of her parents. Still grieving her loss, Samantha takes comfort in her friendships with new pal
Nellie, a servant girl, and her dashing Uncle Gard (Jordan Bridges), a successful businessman. When Uncle Gard
marries Cornelia (Rebecca Mader), Samantha is reluctant to embrace this female "intruder" until she spends three
months with the newlyweds in New York City. In time, Samantha grows to trust and admire Cornelia, a spirited
suffragette. Emboldened by Cornelia's example, Samantha takes her own courageous risks to improve the plight
of some young orphans. This superbly produced film provides a glimpse into America during the Industrial Revolution,
while showcasing the promising talents of young Robb. (Ages 8 and older) --Lynn Gibson, Amazon.com
Review:
This is one of those movies all ages can watch -- and enjoy. While targeted at girls, with tons of merchandising to
go along with it (books, dolls, etc.), the story is a good one that sends a good message as well.
This is a wonderful period piece, showing people dealing with issues like Womens Sufferage, Child labor, and the lack of mandatory education. More movies of this sort need to be show -- to enlighten young people to conditions that were quite
different from today's society -- yet needed to make us appreciate the freedoms we enjoy today.
LOONEY TUNES SUPER STARS: FOGHORN LEGHORN & FRIENDS
and LOONEY TUNES SUPER STARS: TWEETY & SYLVESTER
Both available on DVD: November 30th
Looney Tunes Super Stars: Foghorn Leghorn & Friends
Synopsis:
Foghorn Leghorn, the overgrown, adult rooster with the strong Virginia accent and a penchant for mischief, is
featured as the Super Star is these Looney Tunes cartoon shorts. Watch the diminutive Henery Hawk’s attempts
to catch and eat Foghorn, Foghorn’s gags on his canine nemesis Barnyard Dawg and finally the overgrown rooster’s
efforts to woo the widowed hen Miss Prissy in this collection of cartoon shorts. Additionally Foghorn is joined
on the disc by some other Looney Friends such as Elmer Fudd and Two Crows.
This second installment of the “Looney Tunes Super Star” series, prominently stars Foghorn Leghorn & some of his
Looney Tunes friends – Fans have been asking for more of Foghorn Leghorn so I Say I Say I Say Son here it is!
Looney Tunes Super Stars: Tweety & Sylvester
Synopsis:
When Friz Freleng directed 1947's "Tweetie Pie," he may not have known he was making history. This, the first pairing
of Sylvester the sputtering cat and Tweetie (later Tweety) the wide-eyed canary, won an Academy Award and united a
duo that would appear in more than 40 Warner Brothers cartoon shorts by 1962. Sylvester and Tweety earned their
studio another Academy Award for 1957's "Birds Anonymous" and several other Oscar nominations through the years.
Generations of Americans have grown up watching Sylvester's classic, ever-thwarted attempts to catch Tweety. With
two of the most famous voices in cartoons, both supplied by Mel Blanc, Sylvester's sloppy "sufferin succotash"
and Tweety's baby-voiced "I tawt I taw a puddy tat," Sylvester and Tweety are two of the most quickly identified
characters in cartoons.
This second installment of the “Looney Tunes Super Star” series prominently stars one of the Looney Tunes franchise’s
most popular characters, Tweety!
Review:
I have to thank Warner Bros. for bringing these cartoons back. They are THE BEST of the best when talking about
Sylvester & Tweety and Foghorn Leghorn & Friends. These cartoons have been hand picked, starting with the first
Tweety Pie cartoon and going forward. These award-winning cartoons will make you laugh -- guaranteed.
The best part is that they have also been restored, so the colors are vivid and the animation still holds up after
all these years. While I enjoyed watching them, I'm sure the children in my family will enjoy them as well. Can't
wait to see what their reaction will be.
THE CHRONICLES OF NARNIA
Available on DVD: November 9th
Official Site URL: www.bbcamericashop.com
Synopsis:
C.S. Lewis’s enchanting tale comes to life in this classic BBC adaptation from 1988. When young Second World War evacuee Lucy Pevensie hides in an old wardrobe during a game of hide and seek, she finds herself transported to the magical land of Narnia, locked in eternal winter by the evil White Witch. Her siblings do not believe her when she tells them of this strange new world, but they are soon in Narnia themselves, fighting alongside the noble lion Aslan to defeat the witch and her mighty army. This set includes the following complete stories from the book series: The Lion, The Witch and the Wardrobe; Prince Caspian; The Voyage of the Dawn Treader; The Silver Chair.
Review:
I have loved all the CHRONICLES OF NARNIA movies so far. However, this BBC production is equally as wonderful.
While done on a much smaller scale, the story still is magnificent. The actors, young and old, are terrific and
I find the episodic nature of the stories much easier to follow -- especially for younger viewers. This production
is a good introduction to the novels written by C.S. Lewis.
HARRY POTTER AND THE DEATHLY HALLOWS - Part 1
Warner Bros. Digital Distribution (WBDD) prepares you for HARRY POTTER AND THE DEATHLY HALLOWS - PART 1
with the release of the first five Harry Potter films this month On Demand (cable & satellite) and through
digital Download on iTunes, Amazon Video On Demand, XBOX and PlayStation and other online digital retailers.
Warner Bros. Digital Distribution (WBDD) has announced that all seven seasons of THE WEST WING are now available
for the first time in high definition exclusively through digital download on iTunes, Amazon Video On Demand and
other online digital retailers. Winner of 30 Emmy Awards™ and two Golden Globes™, The West Wing aired between
1999 and 2006, giving viewers a fictionalized look inside life in the Oval Office.
WBDD is also giving fans of THE WEST WING an exclusive behind-the-scenes interview with one of the show’s executive
producers, Thomas Schlamme. Now available at http://bit.ly/WBDD_WestWing,
fans can get a sneak peek and hear details about the show they love.
THE WEST WING offers a behind-the-scenes look at the life of the eclectic group of frenzied staffers in the Oval
Office. The sophisticated series starred Rob Lowe, Dulé Hill, Allison Janney, Janel Moloney, Richard Schiff, John
Spencer, Bradley Whitford and Martin Sheen. Acclaimed dramatist Aaron Sorkin (A Few Good Men, The American President,
The Social Network) created the series and executive produced with Thomas Schlamme and John Wells. The West Wing
is from John Wells Productions in association with Warner Bros. Television.
Warner Home Video is proud to distribute two exciting DC Comics-based titles -- "The DC Showcase Animated
Shorts Collection" featuring the all-new short, "Superman/Shazam: The Return of Black Adam"; and the 75-
year documentary celebration, "Secret Origin: The Story of DC Comics."
Review:
I couldn't wait to see the Superman/Shazam DVD. The story of the origin of Shazam is wonderful. Many have read the
story of how Shazam came to be. Orphaned Billy Batson is a friend of Clark Kent and later they become an invinsible
team. Good story, especially for smaller children. The triumph of good over evil -- right over wrong.
Also on the DVD are stories featuring The Spectre (with voice of Gary Cole as The Spectre); Green Arrow and Jonah
Hex. While I enjoyed all four features, it seemed that they became increasingly violent as the DVD went on. So
parents will want to review the material (as they always should) before having smaller children watch the segmentrs.
GOING THE DISTANCE Synopsis:
When a six week romp through NYC inadvertently becomes meaningful, Erin (Drew Barrymore) and Garret (Justin Long)
decide to see if they can go the distance in a coast-to-coast relationship.
Starring: Drew Barrymore, Justin Long
Supporting actors: Charlie Day, Jason Sudeikis, Christina Applegate
Review:
I'm not much on romantic comedies. While this one had a decent story, I was turned off by the somewhat vulgar
and sophomoric dialog/situations.
SCOOBY-DOO! CURSE OF THE LAKE MONSTER
Release Date: March 1, 2011
Mystical moonstones, creepy creatures and unlikely romances are on the docket for Mystery Inc. in SCOOBY-DOO! CURSE
OF THE LAKE MONSTER, an all-new, live action movie featuring an exclusive extended cut of the film with never-before-
seen music sequences coming to Blu-Ray™ and DVD March 1, 2011 from Warner Premiere and Cartoon Network. A follow-up
to its smash-hit predecessor Scooby-Doo! The Mystery Begins, Scooby-Doo! Curse of the Lake Monster will be available
from Warner Home Video as a Blu-Ray™ Combo Pack and single disc DVD. Order due date is January 25, 2011. The film
will also be available On Demand and for Download.
SCOOBY-DOO! CURSE OF THE LAKE MONSTER finds the Mystery Inc. gang heading toward summer jobs at a country club owned
by Daphne's uncle, only to stumble onto strange happenings around the local lake - including an enormous Frog Monster terrorizing the locals. There's mystery afoot and romance in the air that only the fearful foursome-plus-one can
solve. Group leader Fred, drama queen Daphne, brainiac Velma, fun-loving Shaggy and the cowardly Scooby-Doo are on
the case!
SHERLOCK: SEASON ONE
Release date: November 9, 2010
Synopsis:
A contemporary take on the classic Arthur Conan Doyle stories, Sherlock is a thrilling, funny, fast-paced adventure
series set in present-day London. Co-created by Steven Moffat (Doctor Who, Coupling) and Mark Gatiss, Sherlock stars BAFTA-nominee Benedict Cumberbatch (Hawking, Amazing Grace) as the new Sherlock Holmes and Martin Freeman (The Office,
Love Actually), as his loyal friend, Doctor John Watson. Rupert Graves plays Inspector Lestrade. The iconic details
from Conan Doyle's original books remain ? they live at the same address, have the same names and, somewhere out
there, Moriarty is waiting for them. And so across three thrilling, scary, action-packed and highly modern-day
adventures, Sherlock and John navigate a maze of cryptic clues and lethal killers to get at the truth.
Review:
Like so many BBC series, SHERLOCK is very well done. SHERLOCK HOLMES is a wonderful combination of crisp writing,
subtle humor and engaging. With the recent big screen version of SHERLOCK HOLMES, more viewers should seek out this
BBC series. It is smart and fast paced, with original stories that make you want to see more. The fact that the
series is set in modern time does not detract from the original concept at all -- in fact it adds to the enjoyment
and makes it easier to relate to the current time period.
V: THE COMPLETE FIRST SEASON
Release date: November 7, 2010
Synopsis: The Visitors are among us, promoting a message of peace ... but could they be a threat to our existence?
While the world quickly becomes fascinated with the V's, and their promise to share technology, FBI Counter Terrorist
Agent Erica Evans (Elizabeth Mitchell - Lost) discovers a secret that may threaten the lives of everyone close to her.
Review:
Remakes -- you never know what you'll see. When this series was announced, I thought, oh no. How can they remake the
original V series. It was wonderful.
Enter the new "V" series, it is even better than the original. If there have been issues, it could be with the schedule.
They have aired episodes and then there is a huge break in time before the next one is shown. However, that lapse may
heighten anticipation in what will take place and make you sure not to miss the next episode. They really picked the
right person to play Anna - she is soooooooo wicked!!! I look forward to the new season coming out to see how the 5th
Column and the V's battle it out. Excellent job on the "remake"!!
If you don't want to purchase the DVD, you can also go to iTunes and download just an episode or two.
FARSCAPE: THE DEFINITIVE COLLECTION
FARSCAPE: THE DEFINITIVE COLLECTION hits the shelves in the UK on Monday 15 November courtesy of Go Entertain
and A&E.
It’s the first Region 2 release of all 88 episodes of the classic sci-fi show in one box set, not to mention over
15 hours of bonus features including two disc mini-series The Peacekeeper Wars and rarely-seen special Farscape
Undressed.
32 DVD box set – Cert. 18 – 15 November 2010, 99.99 pounds
FARSCAPE™: THE DEFINITIVE COLLECTION from A&E™ is a fan’s dream; all 88 episodes of all four seasons of the classic
sci-fi show in one stunning box set, not to mention over 15 hours of bonus features including two disc mini-series
THE PEACEKEEPER WARS and rarely-seen special FARSCAPE UNDRESSED.
FARSCAPE follows the adventures of astronaut John Crichton, flung through a wormhole to a far off galaxy while testing
a prototype spaceship. Plunged into the midst of a battle, he is rescued by Moya, a living craft crewed by a motley
group of escaping alien prisoners being hunted by the fiercely militaristic Peacekeepers.
Featuring mind-blowing sci-fi action, superb storytelling, great special effects and character designs by The Jim
Henson Company, FARSCAPE has stood the test of time as a landmark science fiction series. Prepare for the adventure
of a lifetime with Moya’s crew – likeable hero John Crichton; renegade Peacekeeper Aeryn Sun; short-tempered warrior
Ka D'Argo; psychic priestess Zhaan; mercurial thief Chiana and deposed monarch Dominar Rygel XVI.
FARSCAPE: THE DEFINITIVE COLLECTION features all four series of the classic sci-fi show – 88 episodes – in one special
collector’s edition.
More than 15 hours of bonus material including the rarely-seen special FARSCAPE UNDRESSED as well as episode commentaries,
behind-the-scenes interviews, deleted scenes and much, much more.
Bonus 2-disc miniseries FARSCAPE: THE PEACEKEEPER WARS in which our heroes find themselves in the middle of a war-to-
end-all-wars.
Synopsis:
Superstar genetic engineers Clive (Adrien Brody) and Elsa (Sarah Polley) specialize in splicing DNA from different
animals to create incredible new hybrids. Now they want to use human DNA in a hybrid that could revolutionize
science and medicine. But when the pharmaceutical company that funds their research forbids it, they secretly
take their experiment underground – risking their careers to push the boundaries of science and serve their
own curiosity and ambition. The result is Dren, an amazing, strangely beautiful creature of uncommon intelligence
and unexpected physical developments. At first, Dren exceeds their wildest dreams. But as she grows and learns
at an accelerated rate, her existence threatens to become their worst nightmare.
Available on Blu-ray Combo Pack, DVD, On Demand and for Download 10/5!
http://bit.ly/splicefb
SCOOBY-DOO WHERE ARE YOU VOLUME 4
Release date: October 19, 2010
Official website: http://www.kidswb.com/
Synopsis:
This fourth frighteningly funny roundup of classic Scooby-Doo, Where Are You? Series Episodes kicks off when
Fred, Velma, Daphne, Shaggy and Scooby-Doo get lost in a swamp and ask a zombie for directions. Can they add
up the clues to figure out Which Witch Is Which? Shaggy and Scooby-Doo are then captured by Redbeard the Pirate
in Go Away Ghost Ship. Zoinks! If the case isn't solved soon, somebody's going to walk the plank! When the
Mystery Machine runs out of fuel on a creepy abandoned airfield, the teen sleuths run right into a Spooky
Space Kook. In the final mystery, Scooby-Doo inherits big bucks from a dead millionaire. There's a catch:
our heroes must spend a night in a haunted mansion before Scooby-Doo can collect in A Night of Fright Is
No Delight.
Review:
This is the perfect time of year for this video collection -- Halloween and spooky things that go bump in the
night! This DVD contains four episodes of Scooby and the gang solving mysteries in haunted mansions! Doesn't
get much better than that! This is Scooby and the gang at their best. Truly fun for the entire family to watch.
1.13. "Which Witch is Which?" (22:02) (Originally aired December 6, 1969)
On their way back from a fishing trip, the gang winds up in a deserted town that houses a witch and a zombie.
1.14. "Go Away Ghost Ship" (22:03) (Originally aired December 13, 1969)
To help out a shipping magnate Scooby and company board the ghost ship of long-dead pirate captain Redbeard.
1.15. "Spooky Space Kook" (22:04) (Originally aired December 20, 1969)
When the van breaks down on a farm, the gang follows the glowing tracks of what they think might be a space ghost.
1.16. "A Night of Fright is No Delight" (21:59) (Originally aired January 10, 1970)
To claim his share of inheritance from an eccentric millionaire he once rescued, Scooby must spend a night in
a haunted house.
Synopsis
Out of the pages of the legendary comics and graphic novels steps Jonah Hex (Josh Brolin), a scarred drifter and
bounty hunter of last resort. Jonah’s past catches up with him when the U.S. military offers to wipe out the
warrants on his head if he hunts and stop dangerous terrorist Quentin Turnbull (John Malkovich).
Review:
JONAH HEX is a western version of Death Wish or other vengence-based dramas. This movie is a mix of environments --
switching from comic book sketches to live drama; further seating it into the legend of JONAH HEX as read for
years by comic book fans. Josh Brolin is good as the solemn bounty hunter who has special powers over the dead.
The best part of the movie, I hate to say, are the toys! Lance Reddick (Fringe) supplies Hex with some unbelievable
firepower.
This is not your old fashioned western with indepth characterizations or plot. The story is a simple one - revenge.
The one-liners are awesome though.
THE EXORCIST: EXTENDED DIRECTOR'S CUT
This Halloween relive the fright of one of the most powerful films ever made with all-new bonus content available
for the first time ever anywhere. The all-new bonus features include revealing set footage produced and photographed
by cinematographer Owen Roizman, as well as camera and makeup tests, interviews with director William Friedkin,
actress Linda Blair, author/screenwriter/producer William Peter Blatty and Roizman himself and more.
Arrives FOR DOWNLOAD only on iTunes with all-new Bonus EXTRAS:
http://bit.ly/WBDD_EXORCIST
TOP GEAR SEASON 13
Release date: September 28, 2010
Official webiste: www.BBCAmericaShop.com
Synopsis:
Season 13 of this BAFTA-winning show skids, roars and explodes its way back onto DVD, with man versus machine
experiments, exhaustive road tests of the latest models, a look back at the history of motoring, weekly power
tests featuring the world’s most exotic super-cars… and a surprise revelation.
Hot on the heels of their epic challenge in Vietnam, Jeremy, Richard and James are no less ambitious for Season 13.
James goes for a ride with stunt-driving legend Ken Block; Richard travels to Abu Dhabi to test the new Lambo
Murcielago LP640-4 SV; the boys buy three £1,500 rear-drive sports cars and somehow find themselves entered in
a terrifying French ice race. Elsewhere, Jeremy and James attempt to understand what makes a great Volkswagen
advertisement – and then try to film one of their own. Rather predictably, it doesn’t go well. And in a television-
first, the mysterious Stig takes off his helmet to reveal just who he really is…
The Stig continues to put the rich and famous through their paces out on the test track in ‘The Star in the
Reasonably Priced Car’. Celebrities include Michael Schumacher, Olympic Gold sprinter Usain Bolt, actress
Sienna Miller (who has just passed her driving test), AC/DC’s singer Brian Johnson and ‘the biggest petrolhead
in the world’ Jay Leno.
Review:
I have loved this series from the first time I saw it. I would love to work with Jeremy, Richard and James as they
wonder the globe testing out cars and doing their hair-raising stunts! If you love cars and have a sense of humor,
this series is for you. Once you get into this show, you'll want all of the DVDs so you can catch up on what you
have missed! Oh, yes, the scenery is marvelous as well. Enjoy!
DVD REVIEWS
There are a number of DVDs coming out each month. I have divided them into two types -- regular entertainment
and family DVDs. Information about regular DVDs can be found at
DVDs. Looking for movies you can watch with your children? I have moved many of the family-oriented DVDs to
a Family DVDs page. Here you will find wonderful
DVDs you can enjoy with your entire family -- no matter the age. You will find background information about the
DVD, but there are clips as well from Warner Bros. Enjoy!
CHRISTMAS DVDS
With the passing of the holidays, I have moved all the Christmas videos over to the Christmas DVD page.
NEW BOOKS TO CHECK OUT
STARGATE SG-1 - SUNRISE
Author: J.F. Crane
Published by Fandemonium Ltd.
Product Description:
Shortly after the events of the season 4 episode, "Beneath the Surface", SG-1 find themselves on a bleak and
lifeless world. There they discover long-dead bodies frozen in the snow, and a clue to a device that promises
protection from the Goa'uld forever. Following the trail they go in search of the Shield of the Gods, but all
is not as it seems and soon SG-1 find themselves entangled with a people facing annihilation on a drowning
world.
BABYLON 5 MUSIC VIDEOS AND TRIBUTES
I found a touching tribute to Johnny Sekka this morning. Johnny was Dr. Kyle in "The Gathering" - the original pilot for
Babylon 5. I met Johnny at a convention once. He was an awesome personality. He had vast experience in theater and a
resonent voice that was hard to forget. Johnny died in 2006 of lung cancer.
I found this message on the Babylon 5 moderated newsgroup this morning and just
had to post it so that others might enjoy the marvelous music videos created by
John Hudgens.
+++++++++++++++++++++++++
As some of you may know, I was hired by Joe Straczynski back in the
day to create Babylon 5 music videos for him to use at science fiction
conventions, and later to promote the show to networks. Eight were
produced over the run of the series, not including the memorial videos
I did later for Rick Biggs and Andreas Katsulas.
For the longest time, the only way to see these was if Joe or I showed
them at a convention, but now, after numerous requests from fans over
the years, Joe has given me permission me to post these online.
- This is the extended version that I did for Andreas' widow ater the
original cut was released on the net. It's never been seen online
until now.
For those of you who've never seen these, I hope you enjoy them - and
for those that have (and emailed me many times over the years about
releasing them), I hope they're as good as you remember. Working with
Joe on these videos was one of the highlights of my career, and I'll
be forever grateful to him for the doors these have opened for me. I'm
proud to have them on my resume.
John Hudgens
www.zteamproductions.com
COMIC BOOKS
Over the long summer break, Fringe has been quietly releasing comic books.
Tales from the Fringe has been revealing character backstories unrevealed on the show. Comic #1 followed Peter’s
exploits in Iraq, while #2 followed Broyles’ first encounter with the alien from “Earthling.” Astrid became the
focal point of issue #3, where we learned how she came to join the FBI, while the fate of Nina’s arm in the aftermath
of the events of “Peter” was seen in issue #4. Gene the Cow’s dreams will be the focus of #5, out later this month,
and Olivia’s “early days in the Fringe division” will be the subject matter of next month’s #6.
You can order back issues of each comic for only a couple of bucks from Amazon.com, and you can also get the
big paperback compilation of the six issues for only $10.11. Of course, you’ll have to wait a while for the
144-page volume: it’s not slated to land until January.
WIZARDWORLD
January 29-30, 2011
Ernest N. Morial Convention Center
New Orleans, LA
Babylon 5 Guests: Walter Koenig, Claudia Christian
Other Guests: Cast members from Buffy, Lou Gossett, Jr., Aaron Douglas, Ray Park -- and more
For more information, go to
http://www.wizardworld.com/home-neworleans.html
FARPOINT 2010
February 18-20, 2011
Place: Crowne Plaza Baltimore North
City: Timonium, MD
Guests: Adam Baldwin, John Billingsley, Bonita Friedericy
For more information, go to http://www.farpointcon.com/
ARMAGEDDON EXPO 2011
February 26/27, 2011
The Dome, Olympic Park, Sydney Showground
Babylon 5 Guest - Pat Tallman
Other guests: Christopher Heyerdahl, Robert Rankin, David Hewlett
For more information, go to
http://armageddonexpo.com/au/sydney-general-info/
WIZARDWORLD - Miami Comic Con
February 26-27, 2011
Miami Airport Convention Center
Babylon 5 Guest: Claudia Christian
Other Guests: Adam West, Burt Ward, Billy Dee Williams, -- and more
For more information, go to
http://www.wizardworld.com/home-miami.html
STEEL CITY CON
March 4-6, 2011
Place: Monroeville Convention Center
City: Monroeville, Pennsylvania
Guests: Adam West, Peter Tork, Mike Lookinland, Yancy Butler, Larry Thomas
For more information, go to http://www.steelcitycon.com
ARMAGEDDON EXPO 2011
March 5-6, 2011
Adelaide Showgrounds and Ridley Centre
Babylon 5 Guest - Pat Tallman
Other guests: Christopher Heyerdahl, Robert Rankin, Laura Vandervoort
For more information, go to
http://armageddonexpo.com/au/adelaide-general-info/
MEGA CON
March 25-27, 2011
Place: Orange County Convention Center
Babylon 5 guests as of this date are Bruce Boxleitner and Mira Furlan
Other Guests: William Shatner, Jonathan Frakes, James Marsters, Michael Dorn - and many more.
For more information, go to http://www.megaconvention.com/
SPECIAL ANNOUNCEMENTS! Creation Entertainment has a large number of
conventions planned for the next several months. They include stars from TWILIGHT,
SUPERNATURAL, STARGATE, FARSCAPE, XENA, SERENITY, STAR TREK, etc. Check out their
calendar to see if one will be in your neighborhood soon. Don't miss their
Videos page as well. It is
full of some priceless video from a number of conventions.
Be sure to visit the referenced sites to see if there have been changes in
dates/guests attending. Visit our Convention Calendar
for a full listing of upcoming conventions.
BACK ISSUES OF THE ZOCALO TODAY
The front page of the The Zocalo Today changes daily, so be sure to check the
back issues to make sure that you haven't missed anything IMPORTANT! I don't want the front page getting too
long so I shift information periodically into the archives. So if you aren't a regular visitor to The Zocalo Today, be sure
to check out the back issues. Just use the button above!
Take care and I look forward to hearing from you. Sandra Bruckner (sgbruckner@aol.com)
Editor/Publisher
ISN News: The Zocalo Today
http://www.isnnews.net
Copyright - SBruckner, 1999-2010
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WEEKEND BOX OFFICE
DE NIRO DRAMA COMING TO TV
WONDER WOMEN NEWS
EXIT STRATEGY
WALTER KOENIG JOINS WIZARD CON TOUR
JMS UPDATE
BABYLON PODCAST
SAMANTHA: AN AMERICAN GIRL HOLIDAY
THE CHRONICLES OF NARNIA
HARRY POTTER AND THE DEATHLY HALLOWS - Part 1
GOING THE DISTANCE
SCOOBY-DOO! CURSE OF THE LAKE MONSTER
SHERLOCK: SEASON ONE
V: THE COMPLETE FIRST SEASON
FARSCAPE: THE DEFINITIVE COLLECTION
THE EXORCIST: EXTENDED DIRECTOR'S CUT
TOP GEAR SEASON 13
Over the long summer break, Fringe has been quietly releasing comic books. 