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, SEPTEMBER 26, 2010
THE HULK
With the new AVENGERS movie coming, you know that Ed Norton is out as the Hulk and Mark Ruffalo is in. What's different is
that Ruffalo isn't just playing Banner. He's also taking on a second role ... as the Incredible Hulk himself.
Both Norton, in the 2008 Incredible Hulk movie, and Eric Bana before him, in the 2003 movie Hulk, played the scientist on
the run. However, in both movies, the gamma-irradiated monster wasn't portrayed by painted, padded actors (or Lou Ferrigno)
but was merely a post-production special effect. This time, though, according to Ruffalo:
"I'm really excited. No one's ever played the Hulk exactly, they've always done CGI. ... They're going to do the Avatar
stop-action, stop-motion capture. So I'll actually play the Hulk. That'll be fun."
THE AVENGERS will be filmed in 3-D, so when the Banner hulks out, he'll be all up in our faces. Literally.
CHUCK
Summer Glau is joining CHUCK, and all is right with the world. The ex-Terminatrix has signed on to play a secret agent who
sets up shop with Zachary Levi in the Buy More—but, alas, it's for one night only.
Entertainment Weekly reports that for CHUCK's eighth episode, Glau will step into the role of Greta—the same role that
Olivia Munn played last week—a rotating superspy who'll be played by a different actor each episode. (So far, CHUCK's
producers have already lined up ex-wrestler Stacy Keibler and Old Spice pitchman Isaiah Mustafa.)
To help explain, here's Levi:
"The Buy More has now been taken over by the CIA and it's a fully functioning operation by the government, so there are
these constant agents that are in the store. First it was Olivia Munn, who looked hot in her little Nerd Herder outfit,
and [next was] Isaiah, who was a hoot to work with."
Glau would be great in the role, but she is still committed to NBC's midseason superhero drama THE CAPE. But still, we're
glad to see that Glau is steadily adding to her already impressive sci-fi resume.
FRIDAY NIGHT RATINGS -- GOOD NEWS FOR THE CW
According to The Hollywood Reporter, CBS' latest cop show "Blue Bloods" from a strong opening that led the night in the ratings.
The Tom Selleck drama "Blue" (12.8 million viewers, 2.2 preliminary adults 18-49) was up 22% from the debut of "Numbers" in the
time period last year.
The show also improved upon its lead-in -- a newly displaced "CSI: NY" (10.3 million, 2.0). The switch from Wednesdays to
Fridays was hard on the veteran procedural, which dropped 50% from its premiere last fall. "NY" was nearly even with last
year's opening of "Medium" in the slot, though did win the hour. The return of "Medium" (6.1 million, 1.4) kicked things
off, down 33% from its 9 p.m. premiere last year and off 39% from "Ghost Whisperer" in the slot.
Overall, CBS won the night, while receiving mixed news: Freshman drama "Blue Bloods" successfully opened, but returning shows
posted declines.
"Blue" also crushed NBC's "Outlaw" (5 million, 1.1) at 10 p.m., falling 52% from its Wednesday preview. "Outlaw" joins Fox's
"Lone Star" and ABC's "The Whole Truth" and "My Generation" as premiere week insta-bubble shows. NBC's two-hour "Dateline"
(7.2 million, 1.6) served as lead-in and was up slightly from last year, plus a considerable improvement upon "Law & Order"
in the slot.
Over on Fox, "The Good Guys" (0.9) made its time-period debut, predictably down 40% from its Wednesday premiere back in May
and down 10% from "Dollhouse" in the slot.
The CW had the final season return of "Smallville" (2.9 million, 1.3) as well as the premiere of "Supernatural" (2.8 million,
1.2). Both shows performed really well, with "Smallville" up 30% from last year -- the only returning CW show to actually climb
in the adult demo for its premiere. "Smallville" also posted the highest rating for CW in this time period in two years, while
"Supernatural" was down a very manageable 14% from its Thursday debut.
In fact, The CW came in third place -- beating Fox and ABC -- which is something you don't see hardly, well, ever.
In addition to getting some extra sampling for "Modern Family," "Better With You" and "The Whole Truth," ABC aired "20/20"
(5.4 million, 1.5), down 21%.
THE HOBBIT HAS UNION TROUBLE
According to the Hollywood Reporter, 7 unions have told their members not to work for THE HOBBIT films in New Zealand. They
claim that producers of the two films have refused to engage performers on union-negotiated agreements, though they do add
that the situation can be resolved. The statement includes that the unions think the producers intend to make "imminent"
offers to performers for the film.
THE SOCIAL NETWORK WEBCAST - TODAY
Columbia Pictures is doing a webcast event for David Fincher's THE SOCIAL NETWORK on Sunday, September 26 from 2:30-4pm PT /
5:30-7pm ET. The event, hosted by Olivia Munn, will feature a live Q&A with stars Jesse Eisenberg, Justin Timberlake, Andrew
Garfield, Armie Hammer and screenwriter Aaron Sorkin.
A countdown with Olivia Munn will be followed by the Q&A at 3pm PT / 6pm ET that will run for an hour. After the live event,
the video player will re-run the live webcast once in full, followed by a shorter version of the chat playing continuously.
THE SOCIAL NETWORK hits theaters on Friday, October 1.
SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 25, 2010
TOP 100 SCI-FI SPACESHIPS
OK, you can watch this video and recognize the easy ones, USS Enterprise, Excalibur, Galactica. This will even bring back
some memories -- the Jupiter from Lost in Space and War of the Worlds. It is amazing to watch the various designs and
think about the stories that go with them.
Thank YouTube user mokwella for the pulling together this video tribute.
MIDNIGHT DELIVERY
Pajiba reports that Guillermo del Toro has locked another producing project in the form of MIDNIGHT DELIVERY, a script
from British television writer Neil Cross ("MI:5" and "Luther").
Set up at Universal will del Toro producing alongside Gary Ungar (Gothika), Midnight Delivery is said to deal with a father
who is forced to become a drug mule in order to save his son's life.
MIDNIGHT DELIVERY will join del Toro's ever-increasing slate which includes producing roles on the upcoming DON'T BE AFRAID
OF THE DARK and THE HAUNTED MANSION, among others.
HOLMES 2
Stephen Fry confirmed on BBC Radio 5 Live that he's joined the cast of the upcoming sequel to last year's SHERLOCK HOLMES
which Guy Ritchie is once again directing.
Fry says he's set to play Mycroft Holmes, brother of Sherlock (Robert Downey Jr.) and a key power player in the British
Government. In the books Mycroft is as, if not more so, intelligent and clever at deduction than his sibling. However he has
little interest in the practicalities, preferring to remain a "sedentary problem-solver".
Fry joins the returning Downey Jr. and Jude Law as Holmes and Dr. Watson respectively. Noomi Rapace, star of the Swedish-
language "The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo" film series adaptations, was recently cast in a key female role.
The key role of the film's villain, Professor James Moriarty, has yet to be officially announced. Filming kicks off shortly
in the UK for release next Christmas.
SCIENCE FICTION NEWS STORIES:
News from yesterday and the last couple of months can be found in the
News Archive. Check it out
to catch up on all that has been going on in the world of science fiction.
8:00pm on BBC America
Superman II (1980)
The Man of Steel gets serious with Lois Lane and fights three Krypton outcasts in league with Lex Luthor.
Christopher Reeve, Margot Kidder, Gene Hackman, Ned Beatty, Jackie Cooper
8:00pm on TNT
I Am Legend (2007)
After a man-made plague transforms Earth's population into bloodthirsty vampires, a lone survivor desperately
searches for a cure. Based on a novel by Richard Matheson.
Will Smith, Alice Braga, Dash Mihok, Charlie Tahan, Salli Richardson
9:00ppm on AMC
Rubicon-Episode: In Whom We Trust (NEW)
Will secretly reaches out to Katherine and uncovers Hadas's last project; Tanya is sent to rehab; Ingram grows more
suspicious of Truxton.
10:00pm on A&E
The Glades-Episode: Exposed (NEW)
A murder victim has ties to a prominent Florida senator.
10:00pm on AMC
Mad Men-Episode: Hands and Knees (NEW)
An unannounced visitor at the Francis home rattles Betty.
ON SYFY TONIGHT
9:00pm
Mandrake(2010)
Adventurers on a jungle expedition encounter a half-plant, half-animal creature out for blood.
Betsy Russell, Max Martini, Benito Martinez
CRUSADE: WHAT THE HELL HAPPENED? VOLUME 1
Release Date: August 25, 2010
Here is the book CRUSADE fans have been waiting for! Released on August 25, 2010, the covers are white
and the design matches CRUSADE: BEHIND THE SCENES. The series includes all twelve of J. Michael
Straczynski’s CRUSADE scripts (including two episodes that were never produced)–plus the TV movie A CALL TO ARMS.
JUMPGATE PINS
Saw a note from Ranger Jan on Facebook about JumpGate pins being available again. Elana created the pins
years ago as a way of honoring Babylon 5. Now you can help Elana in her fight against cancer by purchasing
one of these beautiful pins. They are quite beautiful -- and become quite a conversation piece when worn.
For more information, go to
http://www.jumpgatepins.com/index.html.
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!
KEEPING UP WITH CAST AND CREW
JMS: UNDERWORLD 4 and NEW YORK COMIC CON
"Since the news has broken elsewhere...yes, I'm doing a draft on the newest iteration of the Underworld series of films,
starring Kate Beckinsale, which is slated to begin filming in March."
JMS posted this information on his Fans of JMS page:
Starting to get panel/appearance information for New York Comic Con. The main appearance, my spotlight, is now scheduled
for Sunday the 10th at 1:30. Just FYI for folks who're coming into town and need to schedule things accordingly.
CLAUDIA CHRISTIAN
Claudia has joined the Wizard World Tour. The Former "Sexiest Woman in Sci-Fi," Claudia Christian is coming
to a city near you! Christian began her career on the soap "Dallas" in 1978, followed by Calendar Girl Murders
in 1984 and found her big break in 1994 when she landed the part of "Susan Ivanova" on the science-fiction series
"Babylon 5." Her next appearance will be at Big Apple Comic Con, October 1-3, 2010 at Penn Plaza Pavilion in New
York City. For more information on her appearances, go to
http://www.wizardworld.com/.
PAT TALLMAN:
Pat Tallman (Lyta) is now appearing in the short horror video "Firsts."
This 6 minute YouTube film description:
"A young girl contemplates losing her virginity.... but her overbearing and overly devout Aunt
has other ideas. Starring Alyson Daniel, Patricia Tallman, Damian Daly, and Kristen Holloway.
This script was the winner of the talenthouse.com "Write a short script for Fewdio" contest!"
Patricia Tallman play the Aunt. See the video at
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TmVV94tvf7I
BILL MUMY : Bill has a new music CD out GLORIOUS IN DEFEAT. He writes on facebook:
My brand new cd, "Glorious in Defeat" is on a small indie label out of San Francisco, GRA, and they do their
very best to promote it, but... it's a hard business... SO, I'...m hoping with the help of all you facebook
pals, we can spread the word. I do hope you'll pick it up, and I'd very much like to hear your thoughts on
this project as it's brand new and of course, the songs are personal and important to me. I played everything
on the album and I hope you'll check it out. You can order it here.
http://www.gragroup.com/bill_mumy.html
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.
AN OPEN LETTER FROM PAT TALLMAN
August 30th 2010
" Hello Dear Friends, Elves, Santas and Angels,
Over 20 years ago now, I met the kids of Penny Lane. These kids were one step away from lock up. They
were so abused they couldn't be placed in regular foster care. Penny Lane helps the kids that no one
else can. They make the world a better place by saving our kids, giving them hope and a future. Please
join me in supporting Penny Lane and the Be A Santa program, where we make sure each of these kids has
a warm holiday to remember! Thanks so much for being YOU!
love,
Pat
You can send a check made out to Penny Lane, to P.Tallman 6433 Topanga Canyon Blvd. #207 Canoga Park, CA 91303
Check back with us in a month and we'll start asking for other items to help us make the holidays special for
an abused child!
I need $10,000 a year to make this program work. The total in the Facebook Causes page reflects donations over
the past 2 years. This year's total will be updated on the http://www.beasanta.org/
Thanks again! Here we GO!!!!!
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!
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."
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) and Tim (Choate) 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
Pat Tallman - September 4
Cinzia Zanetti - September 5
Robin Atkin Downes - September 6
Mira Furlan - September 7
Walter Koenig - September 14
Paul Williams - September 19
Robert Rusler - September 20
Gary Cole - September 20
Bear Burge - September 23
Jason Carter - September 23
Manny Case - September 23
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.
BABYLON PODCAST
Welcome to Show #211!
Tim and Summer gush a little bit over what they’ve read so far of “Crusade: What the Hell Happened? Volume 1?.
As a huge fan of Crusade and everything it might have been, I foresee a lot of long nights staying up late
reading…
Discussion: Tim and Summer delve into “A Call to Arms”, and amongst other things, talk about how the movie
functions as a standalone movie rather than direct pilot for the new series, argue back and forth about some
of the character development and interactions, speculate broadly on newly interpreted happenings and how they
might have influenced things during later Crusade episodes that we never got, and much more.
Yeah, Summer’s still starry-eyed when it comes to Crusade related things.
Speaking of Crusade, we’re taking feedback on whether or not to discuss the show in TNT broadcast order, or in
the JMS preferred story order. There’ll be a poll up later in the week…
Submitting your own Feedback: If you have any suggestions or comments, please let us know! Call 206-338-2259,
or just email us a comment you’ve recorded yourself!
Lurker’s Guide 2.0: Summer is starting a push to get Lurker’s Guide 2.0 completed and finished, including missing
collectibles, photos of magazine covers and toys, and all sorts of other B5 goodies that didn’t get included in
the original guide during the years after Crusade. Let her know if you want to lend a hand.
More Parody/Filk Songs Wanted: If you know of any more B5-related fan songs out there, definitely let us know, so
we can let other B5 fans know where to buy them! And if those CDs are out of print, let’s brainstorm on ways to
get those songs back out there for fans!
Second Life Info: FarPoint Media’s Second Life space can be found on the Third Life Books island in the Wind
River Territory. Find the island here: http://slurl.com/secondlife/Wind%20River%20Territory/50/129/22
Babylon 5 Information Gathering: If you know of a dead or abandoned B5 related website that may be in need of
a new home, let Summer know! Maybe we can mirror it here or house it on a sister site.
If you can, Please Donate to the show!
To catch up on all the previous Babylon 5 podcasts, go to
www.babylonpodcast.com
NEW MOVIE RELEASES
WHAT IF
Kevin Sorbo fans! Here is some news for you.
WHAT IF stars KEVIN SORBO (Hercules, the Legendary Journeys, Gene Roddenberry’s, Andromeda), DEBBY RYAN (Bailey
Pickett on the Disney Channel hit show, The Suite Life on Deck, and the upcoming Disney Channel movie, Sixteen
Wishes), JOHN RATZENBERGER (Cheers. voice in every one of Pixar’s films) and KRISTY SWANSON (Buffy the Vampire
Slayer). WHAT IF is directed and produced by Dallas Jenkins (son of famed Jerry Jenkins, co-author of the Left
Behind series).
FILM OVERVIEW: WHAT IF tells the story of Ben Walker (Kevin Sorbo), fifteen years after leaving his college
sweetheart Wendy (Kristy Swanson) and his calling to be a preacher in order to pursue a business opportunity.
Now with a high-paying executive gig, a trophy fiancé and a new Mercedes, he hasn't even considered a family
nor felt the need to set foot in a church in fifteen years.
While on a thrill ride outside the city, his new car mysteriously breaks down, and he's visited by a tow truck driver
named Mike (John Ratzenberger) who claims to be an angel sent to show Ben what his life would look like had he followed
his true calling. Suddenly Ben wakes up in the middle of domestic chaos as his wife Wendy and daughters (including
Debby Ryan) are getting ready for church, where Ben is the new pastor.
Before he can get back to his old life, Ben must first embrace this reality and discover the value of faith and family,
and perhaps restore his love for those who were heartbroken fifteen years ago: Wendy and God. In the tradition of Its
a Wonderful Life and The Family Man, What If is a story of finding your true purpose in life.
For more information, go to http://thewhatifmovie.com.
To see if your city will be getting to see WHAT IF, go to
http://thewhatifmovie.com/theaters-3.
Review:
To tell you the truth, I never liked Kevin Sorbo in Andromeda. There was just something about him I didn't care for.
Perhaps it was an arrogance about the character that just rubbed me the wrong way. That said, I have to say that I
really enjoyed WHAT IF. He was very good in the title role of Ben Walker. He showed great range as an actor and the
entire cast, especially John Ratzenberger as the angel, were awesome. While the plot was familiar, very much like the
classic, IT'S A WONDERFUL LIFE, there were some new twists and turns in WHAT IF that I think you'll enjoy. It was also
nice not having to listen to all the foul language and seeing people getting blown away every three seconds. This was
just a good, down-to-Earth movie that you could sit and watch with anyone, Mom, Dad, kids - anyone. I hope that it
will be available on DVD soon so that many others will have an opportunity to watch it.
NEWS FROM WARNER BROS.
DVD TO BLU
Starting today, through TV on DVD2BLU, consumers can now experience their favorite television series again for
the very first time in stunning 1080p picture quality and crisp, superior sound that only comes from a Blu-ray
Disc. Titles such as “Smallville”, “The Sopranos”, “Fringe”, “Supernatural” and more can be upgraded for as
low as $14.95 plus shipping. Consumers who place orders of over $35 will receive free shipping.
The process to upgrade is simple. Consumers select the titles they want to upgrade on DVD2BLU.com, mail in
their standard DVDs with pre-paid postage and a short time later receive copies of the same title and complete
season on Blu-ray. See below for a complete list of TV titles available for upgrade with DVD2BLU.com:
$19.95
Smallville Season 8
Supernatural Season 1
Supernatural Season 4
Chuck Season 2
Fringe S1
The Sopranos S1
$14.95
Smallville Season 6
Smallville Season 7
Supernatural Season 3
Chuck Season 1
Pushing Daisies S1
Pushing Daisies S2
Terminator SCC S1
Terminator SCC S2
Nip/Tuck S4
Synopsis:
California Bureau of Investigation consultant Patrick Jane (Simon Baker in his Emmy®-nominated role) has a
blatant lack of protocol but is self-assured and driven. The former “psychic” uses his talent for seeing the
clues everyone else misses to solve the most baffling crimes. But there’s more than crime that makes this
season a must-see: Lisbon and Cho reveal hints about their troubled pasts. Violence fells one CBI boss,
and the new boss seems more interested in authority than teamwork. And as the Van Pelt-Rigsby relationship
heats up, it threatens to cool down their careers. Match wits with the 23-Episode, 5-Disc Season Two of the
hit series that balances nimble humor with dark thrills.
HUMAN TARGET: COMPLETE FIRST SEASON
Release date: September 21, 2010
Official website: www.humantargetdvd.com
Synopsis:
Are you in extreme danger? Need special security? Is there a bullet out there with your name on it? Leave it
to Chance. Mark Valley is protector-for-hire Christopher Chance in the thrill-packed 12-Episode Season 1 based
on the DC Comics series and graphic novel. From piloting a distressed, upside-down jumbo jet to bodyguarding a
D.A. targeted by a gang, Chance puts his life on the line – and each new adventure reveals a little about the
mysterious past that drew him to this line of work. Chi McBride as ops manager Winston and Jackie Earle Haley
as techno genius/fixer Guerrero are Chance’s ace support crew in a series bursting with “brilliantly off-kilter
characters and high production values” (Mary McNamara, Los Angeles Times).
HE'S YOUR DOG, CHARLIE BROWN
Release date: September 21, 2010
Official website: http://www.peanutsdvd.com
Synopsis:
A beagle is a boy’s best friend. Sometimes. The gang is fed up with mischief-maker Snoopy so Charlie Brown sends
the offending beagle away to puppy boot camp. Equipped with a tiny suitcase and his own doggy dish, Snoopy heads
to the Daisy Hill Puppy Farm but never makes it past his first stop at Peppermint Patty’s. Now Snoopy wonders if
the grass might be greener with a new master. Can Charlie Brown put an end to the canine chaos and bring Snoopy
back to the little red doghouse? Friendship and loyalty come out on top in He’s Your Dog, Charlie Brown! And
you will, too, with this Remastered Deluxe Edition with Improved Picture and Audio.
SUPERMAN/BATMAN: APOCALYPSE
Warner Home Video, UGO.com and The Paley Center for Media proudly present the bi-coastal World Premieres of
Superman/Batman: Apocalypse, the highly anticipated next entry in the ongoing series of DC Universe Animated
Original PG-13 Movies, in Los Angeles on September 21 and New York on September 23. Filmmakers and members
of the voice cast will attend both events for red carpet media interviews and post-screening panel discussions.
In SUPERMAN/BATMAN: APOCALYPSE, a spaceship splashes down in Gotham City Harbor -- leading Batman and Superman
to encounter a mysterious Kryptonian with powers as great as those of the Man of Steel. The Kryptonian is soon
revealed to be Kara, cousin of Superman, who takes her under his wing to educate her about the ways of Earth.
However, the villainous Darkseid has other plans. Seeing an opportunity to finally defeat Superman, Darkseid
abducts and gains control of Kara, utilizing the powerful Kryptonian to do his bidding. It’s up to Batman and
Superman to save Kara, but they’ll have to take the fight to Darkseid within his hostile world – where unknown,
deadly threats lurk around every corner, including a brainwashed Kryptonian able to match Superman blow-for-blow.
For more information about the premiere event, go to
Apocalpyse. The SUPERMAN/BATMAN APOLALYPSE will be available on DVD September 28, 2010.
DC SHOWCASE: Superman/Shazam! The Return of Black Adam
On November 9, 2010, Warner Home Video will distribute the DC Showcase Original Shorts Collection, the first
quartet of animated adventures featuring the never-before-seen Superman/Shazam! The Return of Black Adam.
DC Showcase is a series of animated shorts featuring characters from the celebrated DC Comics vault. To
read more about this new collection of animated original movies, go to WB Press Release.
SECRET ORIGIN: THE STORY OF DC COMICS
Warner Bros. Pictures presents an enthralling examination of the creative forces behind the World’s
Greatest Super Heroes in Secret Origin: The Story of DC Comics, an all-new documentary that takes viewers
behind the scenes of the iconic company with unprecedented access to the Warner Bros. and DC Comics
archives.
Narrated by Ryan Reynolds, Secret Origin: The Story of DC Comics will be distributed by Warner Home Video
on November 9, 2010 on DVD for $24.98 (SRP). Secret Origin: The Story of DC Comics will also be available
On Demand and for Download.
For more information, go to Secret Origin page.
Product Description:
Twenty-six years ago, Sam and Dean Winchester lost their mother to a mysterious and demonic supernatural force. Subsequently,
their father raised them to be soldiers. He taught them about the paranormal evil that lives in the dark corners and on the
back roads of America ... and he taught them how to kill it. This haunting series follows the Winchester brothers as they
crisscross the lonely and mysterious back roads of the country in their '67 Chevy Impala, hunting down every evil supernatural
force they encounter along the way. At the end of the fourth season, Sam unwittingly broke the final seal – that held Lucifer
captive in Hell. Now, Lucifer is free, the Apocalypse is here and angels prepare for a spectacular final battle. Against a
landscape of celestial violence, natural disasters and a rising human death toll, Sam and Dean, with the help of fallen angel
Castiel, must find a way to achieve the impossible: Kill the Devil.
SMALLVILLE: THE COMPLETE NINTH SEASON
Release date: September 7, 2010
Official website: http://www.smallvilledvd.com
Product Description
After a meteor shower bursts from the heavens, raining destruction on the unsuspecting citizens of Smallville, years pass,
and the healing process leaves the town's inhabitants with scars and secrets. From the ashes of tragedy, a popular yet
awkward teen attempts to decipher the meaning of his life and his clouded past. As he struggles with the transition from
boyhood to adulthood, Clark finds that his strength and strange abilities set him uncomfortably apart from his peers.
Soaring into its ninth season, this modern retelling of the Superman legend and its classic characters continues to blend
realism, action and emotional depth to reveal a new interpretation of the enduring mythology. This season, as Metropolis's
clock tower tolls our characters' darkest hour, we find Clark Kent (series star TOM WELLING) finally making his first
attempts to embrace his calling as a superhero.
Review:
It is amazing to think that this series has been on for 10 years now. It just seems to get better and better and I will be
said to see it end this year. However, season nine may be one of the best for SMALLVILLE. Clark continues to struggle with
his destiny, but he keeps inching closer and closer as he spends more time learning from his father, Jor-el. While Lex Luthor
had been the primary villain in years past, this season finds Major Zod as Clark's adversary. Callum Blue is marvelous as Zod.
The relationship between Clark and Lois really take off and it is fun to watch. The underlying drama of Oliver sinking into
a very dark place. You keep hoping he'll find himself -- and return to the Green Arrow.
Product Description
From J.J. Abrams (Lost), Alex Kurtzman and Roberto Orci – the team behind Star Trek and Alias – and executive producers
Jeff Pinkner, J.H. Wyman and Bryan Burk, Fringe returns for a second thrilling season and continues to explore the
unexplained phenomena and terrifying occurrences linked throughout the world – known simply as "The Pattern“ – in
pursuit of a larger, more shocking truth. Set in Boston, the FBI's Fringe Division formed when Special Agent Olivia
Dunham (Anna Torv) enlisted the help of institutionalized "fringe" scientist Walter Bishop (John Noble) and his son,
Peter (Joshua Jackson), to save her partner and lover from a mind-bending death. Through unconventional and unorthodox
methods, the Fringe team imagines and tests the impossibilities while investigating unbelievable events, macabre crimes
and mystifying cases involving teleportation, reanimation, genetic mutation, precognition, artificial intelligence and
other fantastical theories. When the unimaginable happens, it's their job to stop it.
Review:
This is one show that I have loved from the start. The chemistry among the cast is awesome -- and it has continued through
the second season. Watching the relationships grow (and fall) has been what keeps me coming back each week. What new
creature or disease will they feature this week? Will Olivia and Peter get together? Will Peter learn who he really is?
These are all questions that continue throughout the entire season -- and more are added. If you like a show that makes
you think a little, then FRINGE is for you. You need to pay attention so that you don't miss anything. THis is a smart
drama that has many, many facets. Just when you think you've figured it out -- they throw you a curve ball. Now on DVD,
you can watch some of the more intense episodes -- just to make sure you haven't missed anything. Caution: Don't start
watching the DVD late at night. You won't want to stop watching until you've gone through the whole thing!
BATMAN: THE BRAVE AND THE BOLD SEASON ONE PART ONE
Release date: August 17, 2010
Official website: http://www.t
Synopsis:
Batman wings into an exciting new era, teaming with a mighty honor roll of DC Comics Super Heroes in this action-packed series.
Through the show?s first 13 Animated Adventures in this 2-Disc Collection, the Dark Knight allies with Aquaman, Plastic Man,
Blue Beetle, Red Tornado, Green Arrow, Wildcat, Deadman, Bronze Tiger and Atom to take on an array of evildoers ranging from
mad scientists to intergalactic crooks, from power-mad dictators to out-of-control teenagers. He even travels to a parallel
world, becoming the villainous Owlman! In this cool, cutting-edge and often funny series bringing back old-school comic-book
styling and dry wit to crimefighting, Batman faces any peril ? including other heroes stealing the show ? in his relentless
pursuit of justice.
Review:
While some may question dividing this season into two parts, you are still getting 13 episodes on 2 DVDs. That is DOUBLE
the normal amount of episodes newer cartoons have been coming out. You are getting your money's worth.
If you like your Batman more like the Adam West version vs. the Dark Knight, you will enjoy this DVD set.
Diedrich Bader is Batman and his voice fits the show's premise. If you are looking for something different, you'll
find it in BATMAN: BOLD AND BRAVE. It features superheroes and villains that have had very few appearances outside
of the comics: Calender Man, Kite Man, the Top, Plastic Man, the Blue Beetle, Kamandi, and Bronze Tiger.
The kids in my family LOVE Batman -- and they are going to enjoy this DVD set. In fact, I think we'll all watch.
THE MIDDLE: THE COMPLETE FIRST SEASON
Release date: August 31, 2010
Official website:
Synopsis:
Patricia Heaton stars as Frankie Heck in this warm and witty single-camera comedy about raising a family and lowering your
expectations. Frankie Heck is a superhero. Well, no, not an actual superhero - but sometimes it seems to Frankie as though
getting her kids out the door for school every morning is a superheroic act. Middle aged, middle class and living in the
middle of the country, this harried wife and working mother of three uses her wry wit and sense of humor to try to get
her family through each day intact.
Review:
THE MIDDLE is definitely in the same category of such great comedies as EVERYONE LOVES RAYMOND, FRAZIER and SEINFELD.
ABC's THE MIDDLE gives us a look at the American family and you see your family on screen. With the same distribution
of kids in the same ages and genders. THE MIDDLE gives you an honest look at life today, something no regular studio
audience sitcom could convey.
The show depicts how children actually behave and the realities of middle class life without being sarcastic, mean, or
condescending. The cast is perfect and Patricia Heaton shows she can easily lead a series all on her own.
It is rare when you get a show that you can watch through several showings -- and not be bored to tears. With THE MIDDLE,
you see something a little different each time. Now that it is on DVD, you can go back and watch some of your favorite
moments, those you may have missed something because you were laughing too loudly or caught up in the moment the first time through.
VAMPIRE DIARIES - THE COMPLETE FIRST SEASON
Release date: August 31, 2010
The best selling young adult book series is now a hit CW show. Two vampire brothers -- one good, one evil --
are at war for 17-year-old Elena Gilbert's soul and for the sourls of her friends & family. Contains all
22 episodes and over 8 hours of bonus material including featurettes, unaired scenes, gag reel, webisodes,
and a downloadable audio book.
Pre-order your copy now by going to
http://www.wbshop.com/on/demandware.store.
Be sure to check out all the swag at
http://www.wbshop.com/Vampire-Diaries/vd,default,sc.html.
Review:
With the success of the TWILIGHT series, this series was a natural follow-on. Nina Dobrev, Ian Somerhalder and
Paul Wesley are absolutely incredible actors. In addition, the writing, direction, production, pacing and acting
is superb. Casting has been spot-on, even with the guest stars.
The show draws you in with the relationships between the major characters -- you want to see what happens next.
The performances are terrific and show the range of all the actors involved.
THE NEW ADVENTURES OF OLD CHRISTINE - SEASON THREE
Release date: July 27, 2010
I-tunes download site: http://bit.ly/WBS_Christine3
Audiences will love Emmy® Award winner Julia Louis-Dreyfus (Seinfeld) as Christine Campbell in the third season
of this hilarious ensemble comedy.
Life gets even more complicated for Christine in season three when she recognizes that her ex-husband, Richard
(Clark Gregg - Ironman), has moved on with his life and his impossible-to-hate new girlfriend, aptly named New
Christine (Emily Rutherford - Van Wilder). While successfully juggling the daily stresses of motherhood and
owning a woman's gym with her best friend, Barb (Wanda Sykes - The Wanda Sykes Show, Curb Your Enthusiasm),
"Old" Christine realizes it may be time to move on with her love life as well. Things get steamy for Christine
as she embraces a romantic relationship with Mr. Harris (recurring guest star Blair Underwood - Dirty Sexy Money,
Something New, L.A. Law), a teacher at her son Ritchie's school. Will Old Christine finally find new love?
Review:
This is one of those series you are either going to love or not! I think Julia Louis-Dreyfus is wonderful as Christine.
She brings a lot of the issues women face as they get older to the surface -- divorce, dating, single parenthood, etc.
You watch Louis-Dreyfus's character go from self-obsessed to concerned parent to passionate lover -- all in the space of
an episode! She's attractive and vivacious but with low self-esteem and self-destructive in her relationships with men.
She's easily discouraged, gets upset over trivial matters, and drinks too much. She's a doting mother but insecure and
frequently feels guilty about her shortcomings as a parent. It is unusual to see a series that takes on issues like
sexuality head-on. Body hair, body odor, sexual positions, condoms, birth control pills and the like become topics of
frequently hilarious discussion among the principals. It is both refreshing and somewhat disconcerting. I guess that is
what makes this series unique as a sitcom.
Synopsis
In Clash of the Titans, the ultimate struggle for power pits men against kings and kings against gods. But the war between
the gods themselves could destroy the world. Born of a god but raised as a man, Perseus (Sam Worthington) is helpless to
save his family from Hades (Ralph Fiennes), vengeful god of the underworld. With nothing to lose, Perseus volunteers to
lead a dangerous mission to defeat Hades before he can seize power from Zeus (Liam Neeson) and unleash hell on earth.
Battling unholy demons and fearsome beasts, Perseus and his warriors will only survive if Perseus accepts his power as
a god, defies fate and creates his own destiny.
REVIEW
I really didn't know what to expect from this movie. The reviews were mixed and like most remakes, CLASH OF
THE TITANS will always be compared to the one before -- in this case the 1981 version starring Harry Hamlin as
Perseus. This version is a more realistic Bronze age world, but the story hasn`t changed all that much. The
citizens of Argos have become disenchanted with the rule of the Gods. The Gods have caused too much chaos and
ruin to their lives so they've decided to take their destinies into their own hands, and destroy the temples
and statues of the Gods. In doing so, Perseus'(Sam Worthington) family is killed by a falling statue of Zeus.
When Zeus (Liam Neeson) learns of the desecration urged on by Hades (Ralph Fiennes), he decides to destroy the
city in four days or they can offer the sacrifice of the King of Argos' daughter Andromeda (Alexa Davalos). In
a visit to the throne room of Argos, Hades tells Perseus he is a son of Zeus, a demi-god. Being told of his near
divinity, Perseus and a group of soldiers go off on their quest to save the city.
The advances in special effects are very evident in this movie. They are great! The monsters look real and the
characters realistically interact with them. The giant scorpions look deadly, Medusa is creepy, and the Kraken
is HUGE. I sort of had a flashback to STAR WARS as I watched the heroes riding the scorpions with the help of
a tribe of warriors made of stone. The photography is awesome.
The special features are wonderful as well. You follow the crew as they build the ships and sets. This project
became a labor of love for everyone. This is a good adventure movie everyone should enjoy.
SUPER FRIENDS
Release date: July 20, 2010
Available for the first time since its debut in 1973, this highly-anticipated deluxe two-disc collector’s set
features eight exciting one-hour episodes starring the most recognizable DC Comics super heroes and villains
of all time.
Super Friends! Season 1 Volume 2 follows the adventures of Superman, Batman, Robin, Wonder Woman and Aquaman
as they join forces to save the world from unthinkable disasters. This crime-stopping squad, along with heroes
in training Wendy, Marvin and Wonder Dog, combine their special superhuman skills to defeat the evil villains
at hand. The collection also features DC Comics favorites Plastic Man, The Flash and Green Arrow. Each hour
is packed with timeless adventures of the universe’s greatest heroes as they pave the way for a brighter
future.
ER: THE COMPLETE 13th SEASON
Release date: July 6, 2010
Synopsis:
Shaking things up: Former paramedic, now intern Dr. Tony Gates arrives with a straightforward attitude and a
complicated personal life. Except for his devotion to healing, he’s Gallant’s opposite: brash, cocksure, with
a bad-boy past – and maybe he’s the right prescription for Neela’s broken heart. Really shaking things up:
Contentious Weaver leaves County General for a career move you wouldn’t expect. And the profound dramas of
the outside world continue to make their way to the ER, including a hostile patient whose real condition is a
secret even to himself, homeless children who escape to a magic world of their own making, and a Christmas miracle.
Then again, miracles happen every day at County General.
REVIEW
This series just keeps going and going. This season opens with trama in the ER -- both patients and doctors are
affected. The drama builds as Abby has her baby and Sam is kidnapped by her ex-husband. Each episode of the series
is filled not only with your usual hospital drama, but deep charcterizations that have made this series a favorite
for years. Even if you haven't been following the series for years, you can enjoy the well-written episodes that
involve some very good segments showing surgery and trama medicine, but you'll quickly get caught up in the personal
lives of the staff at County General. This season includes guest appearances from Forrest Whitaker, who received
an emmy nomination for his role as Curtis Ames, a former patient of Dr. Kovac who sues him for malpractice.
DARK BLUE – THE COMPLETE FIRST SEASON
Release date: July 6, 2010 exclusively online at WBSHOP.com and TNT.tv
DARK BLUE (from iconic producer Jerry Bruckheimer and starring Golden Globe® winner Dylan McDermott) is the
story of Lt. Carter Shaw (McDermott) and his special undercover task force that tread the line between right
and wrong to bring down a criminal underworld.
Experience each heart-stopping moment again or for the first time with the release of SEASON 1 on DVD before
the start of the all-new DARK BLUE Season 2, August 4 only on TNT.
REVIEW
If you are looking for a good, tight, gritty police drama, look no further than DARK BLUE. From the pilot onward, you get a little information on each of the main characters -- just enough to keep you watching! Dylan McDermott is an awesome actor and he fits the persona outlined for Lt. Carter Shaw. In the pilot, one of the main characters says, he will do anthing to protect you and anything to get the bad guy. It's just hard figuring out which one comes first."
Produced by Jerry Bruckheimer, you get that feel of realism and you are on the edge of your seat with each episode. There is a good bit of violence, so it may be a bit much for some. But the violence fits the feel of this cable TV show -- dark and hard. I can't wait to see what season two brings.
NEW FAMILY 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!
BABYLON 5 MUSIC VIDEOS AND TRIBUTES
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
WONDER WOMAN #601
Written by J. MICHAEL STRACZYNSKI Art and cover by DON KRAMER & MICHAEL BABINSKI Best-selling comics
writer J. Michael Straczynski (THE BRAVE AND THE BOLD, Thor) smashes all your expectations of Wonder
Woman by lauching an all-new era for the Amazon Princess! Spinning out of the mind-bending events of
WONDER WOMAN #600, Diana must face the biggest mystery of all - who destroyed Paradise Island? On sale
JULY 28 32 pg, FC, $2.99 US
BIG APPLE COMIC CON
Date: October 1-3, 2010
City: New York City - Penn Plaza Pavilion
Guests: Lee Majors, Jake Lloyd
For more information, go to http://www.wizardworld.com/home-apple.html"
NEW YORK COMIC CON
Date: October 8-10, 2010
Place: Jacob K. Javits Center, New York City
Guests: J. Michael Straczynski, Stan Lee, Bruce Campbell, and many others
For more information, go to http://www.newyorkcomiccon.com/
SCI-FI-LONDON
October 14-16, 2010
Place: The Apollo Piccadilly Circus
For more information, go to http://www.sci-fi-london.com/.
STEEL CITY CON
December 3-5, 2010
Place: Monroeville Convention Center
City: Monroeville, Pennsylvania
Guests: Lou Ferrigno, Richard Kiel, Kane Hodder, Joyce DeWitt, Priscilla Barnes
For more information, go to http://www.steelcitycon.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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THE HULK
CHUCK
FRIDAY NIGHT RATINGS -- GOOD NEWS FOR THE CW
HOLMES 2
JUMPGATE PINS
BILL MUMY
AN OPEN LETTER FROM PAT TALLMAN
BABYLON 5 PRESENCE ON FACEBOOK
WHAT IF
DVD TO BLU
THE MENTALIST: COMPLETE SECOND SEASON
HUMAN TARGET: COMPLETE FIRST SEASON
SUPERMAN/BATMAN: APOCALYPSE
SECRET ORIGIN: THE STORY OF DC COMICS
FRINGE: THE COMPLETE SECOND SEASON
BATMAN: THE BRAVE AND THE BOLD SEASON ONE PART ONE
THE MIDDLE: THE COMPLETE FIRST SEASON
VAMPIRE DIARIES - THE COMPLETE FIRST SEASON
THE NEW ADVENTURES OF OLD CHRISTINE - SEASON THREE
CLASH OF THE TITANS
SUPER FRIENDS
ER: THE COMPLETE 13th SEASON
DARK BLUE – THE COMPLETE FIRST SEASON 
WONDER WOMAN #601
