SUNDAY, OCTOBER 10, 2010

WEEKEND BOX OFFICE
The Hollywood Reporter writes that this weekend is shaping up to be a close contest. Warner's "Life As We Know It" took the early lead, ahead of the weekend's two other new wide releases: Disney's "Secretariat" and Universal's "My Soul to Take."
Sony's "The Social Network" also showed continuing strength as it entered its second weekend. While it followed front-runner "Life" in second place for the day, positions at the top of the pack could still change as the weekend race plays out.
"Life," a baby-centric rom-com starring Katherine Heigl and Josh Duhamel, took the early lead. Appearing in 3,150 theaters, the PG-13-rated movie, co-financed by Village Roadshow, collected an estimated $5.3 million in North America.
"Network," Sony's drama about the founding of Facebook, continued to attract friends as it dropped just 39% from its opening Friday gross of $8 million. In the first day of its second heat, it took an estimated $4.9 million tally as its domestic gross to date rose to more than $35 million.
Randall Wallace's PG-rated "Secretariat," the inspirational tale about the Triple Crown winning horse, starring Diane Lane and John Malkovich, pulled into third place with $4.1 million in 3,072 theaters.
In fourth place, the 3D, R-rated horror tale "Soul," from writer/director Wes Craven and Relativity's Rogue Pictures, had to settle for $2.7 million in 2,572 locations.
Rounding out the top five was Warner's crime drama "The Town," which picked up a new $1.9 million as its domestic cume approached the $70 million mark.
Lagging behind the leaders was Focus' comedy "It's Kind of a Funny Story," which opened in just 742 theaters. Directed by Anna Boden and Ryan Fleck and starring Zach Galifianakis, the film garnered about $679,000 for the day. 'Life' outruns 'Secretariat,' 'Soul' at box officeHeigl comedy earns $5.3 million; 'Social' still popular at No. 2.

THE BOURNE LEGACY
In an interview with Hollywood Elsewhere, THE BOURNE LEGACY writer/director Tony Gilroy (Duplicity, Michael Clayton) clarified a few things about the upcoming project.
He says the Universal release has taken the title from the Eric Van Lustbader book based on the series created by Robert Ludlum, but that they will not be using the story. "This is not a reboot or a recast or a prequel. No one's replacing Matt Damon. There will be a whole new hero, a whole new chapter...this is a stand-alone project," said Gilroy.
"The easiest way to think of it is an expansion or a reveal," Gilroy added. "Jason Bourne will not be in this film, but he's very much alive. What happened in the first three films is the trigger for what happens. I'm building a legend and an environment and a wider conspiracy... the world we're making enhances and advances and invites Jason Bourne's return [down the road]."
A release date has not been set yet for the project.

SATURDAY, OCTOBER 9, 2010

DOCTOR WHO
Matt Smith is fantastic as the latest Doctor Who. But what does the guy he replaced as Time Lord think about the job he's doing? Turns out David Tennant loves Smith just as much as we do.
In an interview with The List, Tennant said:
"Genuinely, I think it's been brilliant. I've loved every second of it. It's a thrill for me to be watching as a viewer again. I knew Matt was going to be fantastic and he is. He's a great choice and he's knocked it out of the park."
Tennant also stated he had no regrets about moving on.
"It felt right to pass the baton on and for it to continue to thrive," he said. "I think that was all exactly as I would wish it to be."

UNCHARTED: DRAKE'S FORTUNE
Columbia Pictures announced that David O. Russell (Three Kings, The Fighter) has been set to write and direct UNCHARTED: DRAKE'S FORTUNE, an action-adventure based upon the best-selling PlayStation 3 game. The film will be produced by Avi Arad, Charles Roven, Ari Arad, and Alex Gartner.
The story follows the adventures of treasure hunter Nathan Drake.
Commenting on the announcement, Tolmach said, "David is a tremendous choice to take on this film. He's equally adept at combining all the classic elements involved in this property: great character development, strong comedy, and amazing action sequences. He has a brilliant vision for this material and we know he will bring his original, unique voice to this adaptation."
The game, developed by the acclaimed team at Naughty Dog, was one of Sony Computer Entertainment's best-selling and most critically acclaimed games for the PS3. Named IGN's Best Action Game and Best PS3 Game, "Uncharted: Drake's Fortune" sold one million copies in the first 10 weeks of its release at the end of 2007 on its way to moving more than 2.6 million copies and spawning a sequel. That sequel, "Uncharted 2: Among Thieves," was a major commercial and critical success, winning Game of the Year honors from several influential critics, being named the most critically acclaimed game of the year by Metacritic, and selling more than 3.8 million copies worldwide. Both games are among the all-time best-selling games for the platform.

The project will be overseen at Columbia Pictures by Tolmach and Jonathan Kadin. Thomas Dean Donnelly and Joshua Oppenheimer wrote the first draft of the screenplay.

GREEN LANTERN NEWS
The trailer for GREEN LANTERN will debut before HARRY POTTER AND THE DEATHLY HALLOWS - Part 1, according to DC writer and Chief Creative Officer Geoff Johns, announcing the plan at the New York Comic Con.
HARRY POTTER AND THE DEATHLY HALLOWS - Part 1 is scheduled to hit theaters on November 19th of this year. GREEN LANTERN will follow next summer on June 17th.

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.

7:30 on USA
Pirates of the Caribbean: At World's End (2007)
While the Flying Dutchman ghost ship wreaks havoc on the Seven Seas, Will, Elizabeth and Barbossa unite to save Jack Sparrow from Davy Jones' locker. Johnny Depp, Orlando Bloom, Keira Knightley, Geoffrey Rush, Chow Yun-Fat

9:00pm on BBC America
Clash of the Titans (1981)
Perseus, the half-mortal son of Zeus, fights meddling gods and mythical monsters for beautiful Andromeda. Harry Hamlin, Laurence Olivier, Judi Bowker, Claire Bloom, Maggie Smith

10:00pm on CBS
CSI: Miami-Episode: Sudden Death (NEW)
When a woman is murdered at an exclusive club, Horatio must search through an elite guest list to find the killer.

ON SYFY TONIGHT

9:00pm
Cold Creek Manor (2003)
An ex-convict plagues a couple and their two children after they move into his former mansion. Dennis Quaid, Sharon Stone, Stephen Dorff, Juliette Lewis, Kristen Stewart

WARNER BROS. AT NEW YORK COMIC CON THIS WEEKEND
Warner Home Video comes to New York ComicCon October 8-10 spotlighting four exciting upcoming releases: the highly-anticipated All-Star Superman; the all-new 24-minute animated short Superman/Shazam: The Return of Black Adam; a chat with Corey Feldman about the latest installment in the ongoing franchise, Lost Boys: The Thirst; and a pre-release screening of the acclaimed documentary, Secret Origin: The Story of DC Comics.
Specific information about panels and media sessions can be found at New York ComicCon.

DISCUSSION TOPIC AND ISN BLOG

KEEPING UP WITH CAST AND CREW

CLAUDIA CHRISTIAN
Claudia posted this on her facebook page. She will appear in a new Showtime series - LOOK -- premiering October 10.

JMS: THOR AND UNDERWORLD 4
Here's a youtube clip from THOR - JMS talks about seeing something he has created on the printed page come to life for the upcoming THOR movie.
http://www.facebook.com/l.php?u=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.youtube.com%2Fwatch%3Fv%3DbF9vG3JvxZo&h=f020f

"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 AT NEW YORK COMIC CON THIS WEEKEND
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

BILL MUMY RADIO

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

How can you help? You can share this link via email and Facebook: http://birthdays.causes.com/wishes/21754

You can donate via this link $20 or whatever you can afford! No donation too small!http://birthdays.causes.com/wishes/21754

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!

THE ZOCALO ON FACEBOOK

CRUSADE: WHAT THE HELL HAPPENED? VOLUME 1
Release Date: August 25, 2010

Read the entire press release over at Hell-Crusade-1.

SPECIAL NOTE

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

BABYLON PODCAST

Tim and Summer talk about the results of the listener poll regarding the Crusade viewing order, and the fans have spoken: the Scifi Channel revised broadcast order has won out. Tim is nonplussed.
Discussion: Tim and Summer talk about the technology and the everyday gadgets found on the station and in the hands of its command staff, crew and folks just passing through.
On the list this time around: ship behavior in space; handheld weapons and ship-based weapons; medical technologies; personal hygiene (showers and laundry)
Voicemail: Gary chastises Tim for believing that Captain Anderson was destined to be the lead going from “A Call to Arms” to Crusade; Gary sees a story parallel between “A Call to Arms”, and the “Over There” segment from The Lost Tales; Gary thinks that “A Call to Arms” is a perfect example of how a story set in the B5 universe without the major B5 cast members could work very well…
Purple-Green Cage Match!
Also, Mike sends his heartfelt gratitude to all who have donated to the show, because your generous contributions helped us get the studio back up and running in a moment of crisis.

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 BOOKS TO CHECK OUT

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.

NEW MOVIE RELEASES

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

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.

$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

Here are clips from:
SMALLVILLE, S.8:
http://pdl.warnerbros.com/wbol/us/dd/med/dvdtoblu-ray/clips/ss8_plastique_first_day_qt_700.mov

FRINGE, S.1:
http://pdl.warnerbros.com/wbol/us/dd/med/dvdtoblu-ray/clips/fs1td_3T7658_john_scott_qt_700.mov

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.

The Big Bang Theory: The Complete Third Season
Available on DVD: September 14th
Official Site URL: www.bigbangtheorydvd.com

Synopsis:
Worlds collide in Season 3! A love affair with Penny has opened a big, wide, wonderful world of romance for Leonard. But Sheldon likes the world just the way it was, thank you. All of which makes for a zany comic triangle with brainy, clueless Sheldon and practical, grounded Penny hilariously vying for the role of hypotenuse. This complete 2-Disc, 23-Episode Season 3 Set also features Raj, Howard, tattoos, football, awkward dates, jail time, Stan Lee, a The Lord of the Rings ring and all the fun of a series that only gets better. The Big Bang Theory “has transformed from a cute comedy about eggheads and their hottie neighbor into an addictive ensemble piece that could be this decade’s answer to Friends” (Lynette Rice, Entertainment Weekly).

SCOOBY-DOO CAMP SCARE
Available on DVD: September 14th
Official Site URL: www.scoobydoocampscare.com

Synopsis:
Back-to-nature chills and thrills with Scooby-Doo’s all-new original movie!
Welcome to Camp Little Moose – where the counselors are friendly, the activities are endless and the urban legends are intense. In fact, every time someone tells a ghost story, the creepy creature comes to life! But the Mystery Inc. gang doesn’t spook that easily so gather ’round the campfire to roast some bad guys. Scooby-Doo, Shaggy, Freddy, Daphne and Velma fish for clues to solve the mysteries of The Woodsman, The Fishman and The Banshee of Black Canyon. And of course, Shaggy and Scooby-Doo are hot on The Case of What’s for Dinner! Scare up summertime fun with the Mystery Inc. gang in this hilarious, feature-length movie that gives new meaning to camp spirit!

TOM AND JERRY GREATEST CHASES VOLUME 5
Street Date (Blu-ray and DVD): September 21st
Official Website: www.kidswb.com/whv

Synopsis:
The chase continues with Tom and Jerry in 14 animated adventures full of more nonstop fun and outrageous antics! Lasso laughs when Cowboy Tom wrangles up a frisky Jerry in Posse Cat. Capture chuckles when Jerry the photographer snaps photos of Tom with his hand in the cookie jar…or, in this case, chocolate cake in Tom’s Photo Finish. Babble with glee when the two form a dynamite duo of babysitters in Tot Watchers and Busy Buddies. Howl with delight as Tom’s world goes to the dogs after Jerry befriends Butch in Fit to Be Tied and clap your fins with approval when Jerry rescues a lost seal in Little Runaway. That’s just a taste of the marvelous mayhem this mischievous mouse and crazy cat will unleash on your delighted family.

THE MENTALIST: COMPLETE SECOND SEASON
Release date: September 21, 2010
Official website: http://www.thementalistdvd.com

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).

Video Clip:
http://raincloud.warnerbros.com/wbol/us/whv/med/humantarget/season1/clips/US-HEMAR-FilmClipTheyKnowImhere-HumanTargetBaptiste_300.asx

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.

Video clip:
http://raincloud.warnerbros.com/wbol/us/whv/med/supermanbatman/apocalypse/clips/SMBMA_DC_Run_Promo_Clips_300.asx

http://pdl.warnerbros.com/wbol/us/whv/med/supermanbatman/apocalypse/clips/SMBMA_DC_Run_Promo_Clips_300.wmv

For more information about the premiere event, go to Apocalpyse. The SUPERMAN/BATMAN APOLALYPSE will be available on DVD September 28, 2010.

TIM DALY TALKS SUPERMAN/BATMAN APOCALYPSE
Tim Daly is reprising his seminal role as the Man of Steel for SUPERMAN/BATMAN: APOCALYPSE, the ninth entry in the popular, ongoing series of DC Universe Animated Original PG-13 Movies arriving Tuesday, September 28 from Warner Home Video. Tim sat down and answered some questions. You can read his responses at TimDaly. For more information about this DVD, find more information below in the DVD section along with some video clips.

SUPERMAN/BATMAN: APOCALYPSE-SUMMER GLAU IS SUPERGIRL
Summer Glau makes her animation voiceover debut as Kara/Supergirl in SUPERMAN/BATMAN: APOCALYPSE, the ninth entry in the popular, ongoing series of DC Universe Animated Original PG-13 Movies arriving Tuesday, September 28 from Warner Home Video. Read her interview as she talks about acting and relating to Supergirl! at SummerGlau.

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.

SUPERNATURAL: THE COMPLETE FIFTH SEASON
Release date: September 7, 2010
Official website: http:// www.supernaturaldvd.com

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.

FRINGE: THE COMPLETE SECOND SEASON
Release date: September 14, 2010
Official website: http://www.thewb.com/shows/fringe-on-dvd/

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.

CLASH OF THE TITANS
Release date: July 27, 2010
Official website: http://clash-of-the-titans.warnerbros.com/dvd/

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.

Video Clips
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2U_6_sgCEAI

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4LH1j2jk2gc

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ngCENLNnshw

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.

BABYLON 5 MUSIC VIDEOS AND TRIBUTES

+++++++++++++++++++++++++
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.

Danger Zone: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xYNG0ow0G0k

I Need a Hero: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PFo3Lau2Occ

Requiem: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=X7ckXY6yiVQ

Nobody's Side: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Wk9LvldiOf0

Welcome to the Third Age: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YT5q_ltXiY0

Keep Yourself Alive: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=t0lRtpWR5lo

The Phantom B5 Video: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uV4GMNjDdYc

Third Age 2K: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HqIyY0PWjbI

Richard Biggs memorial: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HyD4L8yNtsA

Andreas Katsulas memorial: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=h2UQ2l9NPIg

- 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

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/.

NEW ENGLAND COMIC CON
October 15-17, 2010
Place: John B. Hynes Veterans Memorial Convention Center
Guests: Adam West, Burt Ward, Lee Majors,John Schneider, Charisma Carpenter, James Marsters and more
For more information, go to http://www.wizardworld.com/home-newengland.html/.

AUSTIN COMIC CON
November 12-14, 2010
Austin Convention Center
Babylon 5 Guest: Claudia Christian
Other guests: Adam West, Burt Ward, Billy Dee Williams, James Marsters and more
http://www.wizardworld.com/home-tx.html/.

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.

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