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, OCTOBER 24, 2010
Steven Spielberg has committed to directing an adaptation of Daniel H. Wilson's robot uprising novel as his next movie.
Everyone has been waiting to see what project the genre mastermind would tackle next.
Spielberg sparked to the material last March, long before the novel was even completed—but as Wilson was turning in pages
of the book, Drew Goddard (Cloverfield) was processing them into the screenplay and storyboards were being drawn. The
finished product must've jazzed Spielberg, since he just decided to shoot Robopocalypse next January, aiming for a 2013
release.
As for the book itself, it'll be published in June 2011—while Wilson finishes his follow-up: Amp, which is set in a world
where the technology to make the disabled whole turns them into supermen.
WEEKEND BOX OFFICE
The threat of unseen spooks drove moviegoers looking to be scared to the North American boxoffice Friday, where Paramount's
PARANORMAL ACTIVITY 2 opened in the top slot. Warner's HEREAFTER, another movie that touches on the supernatural, checked
in in fourth place as it expanded into wide release.
PARANORMAL ACTIVITY 2-- which is actually more of a prequel than a sequel to the 2009 hit -- took in an estimated $20 million
in 3,216 theaters, including $6.3 million from its midnight screenings. The R-rated movie, directed by Tod Williams, is on
track to gross something north of $30 million in its opening weekend. By comparison, the first movie in the lucrative franchise
opened in limited engagements before moving to 760 theaters in its fourth weekend, when it collected $19.6 million, and then
wide in its fifth weekend, when it pulled $21.1 million from 1,945 locations.
Paramount also held down the No. 2 position for the day with another modestly-budgeted franchise JACKASS 3D, which had
grossed $66 million as of Thursday. That R-rated movie grabbed another $7.6 million on Friday.
The PG-13 HEREAFTER, which opened in six theaters a week ago, moved up to 2,181 locations. Directed by Clint Eastwood and
starring Matt Damon, the movie, which raises questions about the afterlife, took the fourth spot on the daily list as it
summoned $4.1 million.
Rounding out the top five, Summit's action movie RED, which was second in its opening last weekend, shifted to third place
with $4.5 million.
Sony's THE SOCIAL NETWORK was fifth as it began its fifth weekend with about $2.3 million as it closes in on the $75 million
mark at the domestic box office.
SATURDAY, OCTOBER 23, 2010
HALLOWEEN TV
With Halloween approaching, a number of networks are kicking off their programming on Sunday. From
marathons of classic TV Halloween episodes and Fearfest lineups to family fare like "It's the Great Pumpkin"
and current shows' Halloween episodes -- we've got a little something for everyone. Here is just a small
portion of what is available.
Sunday, Oct. 24
ABC Family's 13 Nights of Halloween: "Teen Witch," "Bridge to Terabithia," "Mr. Magorium's Wonder Emporium,"
"Willy Wonka & the Chocolate Factory," "Charlie and the Chocolate Factory," "Corpse Bride," "Disney's Trick
or Treat," "The Spiderwick Chronicles"
AMC Fearfest: "The Wolf Man," "Frankenstein Meets the Wolfman," "Pet Cemetery," "Cujo," "House on Haunted Hill,"
"Return to House on Haunted Hill," "Constantine," "28 Days Later," "Jeepers Creepers 2," "Ghost Ship" and
"Exorcist - The Beginning"
Syfy: "Boogeyman," "Boogeyman 2," "The Midnight Meat Train," "Timber Falls," "The Grudge," "Identity," "The
Reaping," "The Rapture," "Dread," "Bram Stoker's Way of the Vampire"
Monday, Oct. 25
NBC: "Chuck," "Chuck Versus the Aisle of Terror," featuring guest star Robert Englund
Syfy: "The Dunwich Horror," "Joyride 2 - Dead Ahead," "The Grudge," "Saw II," "Saw III," Reign of the Gargoyles"
Tuesday, Oct. 26
FOX: "Glee" ("The Rocky Horror Glee Show"), "Raising Hope" ("Happy Halloween"/"Family Secrets")
AMC Fearfest: "Bram Stoker's Dracula," "Dracula 2000," "Dead Silence," "House of Wax," "Halloween II,"
"Halloween III - Season of the Witch," "Halloween IV - The Return of Michael Meyers," "Halloween III -
Season of the Witch," "Dracula 2000," "The She Creature"
Syfy: "Sometimes They Come Back Again," "Sometimes They Come Back For More," "Boogeyman," "Boogeyman 2,"
"Stephen King's The Tommyknockers"
Wednesday, Oct. 27
CBS: "Criminal Minds" ("Devil's Night")
ABC Family's 13 Nights of Halloween: "Corpse Bride," "Disney's Lonesome Ghosts," "The Haunted Mansion"
AMC Fearfest: "Aliens," "Pet Cemetery," "Cujo," "Tremors," "Halloween IV - The Return of Michael Meyers,"
"Halloween V - The Revenge of Michael Meyers," "House on Haunted Hill," "Return to House on Haunted Hill,"
"Cujo," "Creature from the Black Lagoon"
Thursday, Oct. 28
ABC: "It's the Great Pumpkin, Charlie Brown"
NBC: "Scared Shrekless," "Community" ("Epidemiology 206"), "The Office" ("Costume Contest"), "Outsourced"
("Trick or Treat")
The CW: "THe Vampire Diaries" ("Death at the Masquerade Ball")
ABC Family's 13 Nights of Halloween: "The Haunted Mansion," "The Spiderwick Chronicles"
AMC Fearfest: "End of Days," "Tremors," "Thirteen Ghosts," "House on Haunted Hill," "Return to House on Haunted
Hill," "Constantine," "Jason Goes to Hell - The Final Friday," "Friday the 13th - A New Beginning," "Constantine"
Friday, Oct. 29
ABC Family's 13 Nights of Halloween: "The Mask," "America's Funniest Home Videos: Halloween."
AMC Fearfest: "Friday the 13th Part 3," "Friday the 13th: The Final Chapter," "Friday the 13th - A New Beginning,"
"Friday the 13th Part VI - Jason Lives," "Friday the 13th Part VII - The New Blood," "Predator," "Predator 2,"
"Deep Blue Sea," "Funny Games"
Syfy: "100 Feet," "The Cursed," "Timber Falls," "Wrong Turn 2 - Dead End," "Silent Hill," "Night of the Living
Dead"
Saturday, Oct. 30
ABC Family's 13 Nights of Halloween: "Sabrina the Teenage Witch," "The Black Cauldron," "Willy Wonka & e th
Chocolate Factory," "TMNT," "Corpse Bride," "Disney's Lonesome Ghosts," "The Haunted Mansion," "The Spiderwick
Chronicles," "Hocus Pocus," "Clue"
AMC Fearfest: "Blood of Dracula," "They Live," "28 Days Later," "Predator," "Predator 2," "From Dusk Till Dawn,"
"Evil Dead 2," "28 Days Later," "They Live," "The Brain Eaters"
Encore Fearfest: "Texas Chain Massacre - The Next Generation," "The Haunting of Molly Hartley," "Hellbound -
Hellraiser II," "The Sixth Sense"
Syfy: "Mimic 3: Sentinel," "The Beast of Bray Road," "Dog Soldiers," "Ginger Snaps Unleashed," "Ginger Snaps
Back - The Beginning," "Underworld," "Red - Werewolf Hunter," "Skinwalkers," "Cerberus"
Sunday, Oct. 31
ABC Family's 13 Nights of Halloween: "Willy Wonka & the Chocolate Factory," "TMNT," "The Little Vampire," "The
Haunted Mansion," "The Mask," "Practical Magic," "Val Helsing," "America's Funniest Home Videos: Halloween"
AMC Fearfest: "Evil Dead 2," "Halloween," "Halloween II," "Halloween III - Season of the Witch," "Halloween IV -
The Return of Michael Meyers," "Halloween V - The Revenge of Michael Meyers," "From Dusk Till Dawn," "Dawn of
the Dead," "The Walking Dead" series premiere" (two repeats), "Halloween 5 - The Revenge of Michael Meyers,"
"Creation of the Humanoids"
Encore Fearfest: "Buffy the Vampire Slayer," "The Haunting of Molly Hartley," "The Fly II," "Child's Play 2,"
"Fright Night," "Christine," "Buffy the Vampire Slayer," "Bones," "The Fly," "Candyman," "Hellraiser"
FX: "Aliens vs. Predator - Requiem," "John Carpenter's Vampires," "Shutter," "The Happening," "The Strangers,"
"The Ruins," "Prom Night"
WGN: "The Monstrous Munster Mash," 18 episodes of "The Munsters" hosted by rock legend Alice Cooper
BATTLESTAR GALACTICA: BLOOD AND CHROME
Part of the story that we are missing from BATTLESTAR GALACTICA, when Cmdr. William Adama was only a rookie
Viper pilot during the first Cylon war will now be a new two-hour pilot from Syfy.
Here's Syfy's official press release:
SYFY GREENLIGHTS BATTLESTAR GALACTICA: BLOOD & CHROME 2-Hour Pilot Chronicles Young William Adama's Adventures
in First Cylon War
New York, NY - October 22, 2010 - Syfy is readying an exciting all-new chapter in the Battlestar Galactica saga
with a greenlight for Battlestar Galactica: Blood & Chrome from Executive Producer David Eick, it was announced
today by Mark Stern, Executive Vice President of Original Programming, Syfy and Co-Head of Content for Universal
Cable Productions. Universal Cable Productions will produce the 2-hour pilot with Syfy utilizing cutting edge
CGI and virtual technology.
BATTLESTAR GALACTICA: BLOOD & CHROME takes place in the 10th year of the first Cylon war. As the battle between
humans and their creation, a sentient robotic race, rages across the 12 colonial worlds, a brash rookie viper
pilot enters the fray. Ensign William Adama, barely in his 20's and a recent Academy graduate, finds himself
assigned to the newest battlestar in the Colonial fleet... the Galactica. The talented but hot-headed risk-taker
soon finds himself leading a dangerous top secret mission that, if successful, will turn the tide of the decade
long war in favor of the desperate fleet.
"The 'Galactica' universe as re-imagined by Ron Moore and David Eick is rich with possibilities and backstory,"
said Mark Stern. "We jumped at the chance to revisit the William Adama character and explore this exciting chapter
in the BSG narrative which falls between the events of the original series and the prequel, 'Caprica,' currently
airing on Syfy."
"While maintaining the themes of politics, social propaganda, and the timeless question: what does it mean to be
human? - 'Blood & Chrome' will also return us to the authentic, relentless depiction of combat and the agony and
ecstasy of human-Cylon war, which was the hallmark of 'Battlestar Galactica's' early seasons," said David Eick.
Michael Taylor wrote the teleplay from a story by Eick, Taylor and Bradley Thompson & David Weddle.
SCIENCE FICTION NEWS STORIES:
If you don't see what you are looking for here, check out the
News Archive. Here you'll find items from yesterday
and last month -- all that has been going on in the world of science fiction.
7:30 on BBC America
Star Trek: First Contact (1996)
Picard, Riker and the others set off to stop the half-robot Borg from sabotaging a historic rocket flight in 2063.
Patrick Stewart, Jonathan Frakes, Brent Spiner, LeVar Burton, Michael Dorn
8:00pm on ABC Family
The Spiderwick Chronicles (2008)
Siblings learn that magical creatures are behind the strange occurrences at their great-great-uncle's rundown estate.
Based on the books by Holly Black and Tony DiTerlizzi. Freddie Highmore, Sarah Bolger, Mary-Louise Parker, David
Strathairn, Nick Nolte
9:00 on Showtime
Dexter - Episode: First Blood (NEW)
Dexter is saddled with an unwanted conspirator; Dexter worries about how Rita's death will affect Harrison; Deb works
alone; Quinn enlists an old friend's help.
10:00pm on CBS
CSI: Miami-Episode: Manhunt (NEW)
When the man who killed Horatio's wife breaks out of prison and goes on a rampage, the team tries to determine
what he is after.
ON SYFY TONIGHT
9:00pm
The Reaping (2007)
A former Christian missionary who now debunks religious phenomena encounters biblical plagues in a small town.
Hilary Swank, David Morrissey, Idris Elba, AnnaSophia Robb, Stephen Rea
ARTIFACTS FROM BEYOND THE RIM
LIMITED EDITION
This is a limited edition book. It is only available for ninety days. After January 20, 2011 this book in
both the black cover and the white will never be available again. Ever.
JMS's Handwritten Notes for Season One
See for yourself the ideas JMS originally planned to include...at the moment he thought of them. We include scans
of his original notes along with a transcription of what he wrote. (If you've ever seen JMS's handwriting, you'll
understand what a bonus this is.) These season one notes include --
* The two-part episode that was scrapped in favor of “A Voice in the Wilderness,” which includes an Earth
Alliance ambassador being stationed on B5
* The plot for the unproduced episode “Blockade”
* The original notes for "Quality of Mercy," which in his notes was called “The Resurrectionist”
For all the information on this book, go to B5Books.
P.S. If you want to see photos of JMS with Angelo Corsini, the Babylon 5 fan with B5 tattoos on his arm, visit
the Fans of J. Michael Straczynski facebook photo page or click here http://on.fb.me/anGTVp
DISCUSSION TOPIC AND ISN BLOG
OK, the new season has begun and we've had a taste of some of the new shows. What have you watched? What did you
like -- and not so much? A number of my favorites haven't premiered yet, but I thought FRINGE was awesome.
Join me on the ISN News Blog at
http://isnnews.blogspot.com. I’ll put in stuff that I think is interesting
for others to read about and I hope you will join in to discuss of the issues --
related to science fiction or not!
KEEPING UP WITH CAST AND CREW
HARLAN ELLISON TYPEWRITER FOR SALE
Ranger Steve dropped this tidbit along to share with readers:
Harlan is selling his first typewriter. It has been on display at the SF Hall of Fame in Seattle, and was
recently returned to him. He's decided to put it up for sale through David Silver, a noted dealer in this
sort of thing. Here's a link with more information:
http://www.photographyhistory.com/harlanellisontypewriter.html
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."
CLAUDIA CHRISTIAN
Claudia posted this on her facebook page. She appears in a new Showtime series - LOOK --
premiered October 10.
"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."
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
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!
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
Dylan Neal - October 8
Jeff Conaway - October 5
John Vulich - October 10
Tim Choate - October 11 - Zathras we miss you
John Copeland - October 13
Linda Huse - October 16
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.
NEW BOOKS TO CHECK OUT
STARGATE SG-1 - SUNRISE
Author: J.F. Crane
Published by Fandemonium Ltd.
Product Description:
Shortly after the events of the season 4 episode, "Beneath the Surface", SG-1 find themselves on a bleak and
lifeless world. There they discover long-dead bodies frozen in the snow, and a clue to a device that promises
protection from the Goa'uld forever. Following the trail they go in search of the Shield of the Gods, but all
is not as it seems and soon SG-1 find themselves entangled with a people facing annihilation on a drowning
world.
Synopsis:
Superstar genetic engineers Clive (Adrien Brody) and Elsa (Sarah Polley) specialize in splicing DNA from different
animals to create incredible new hybrids. Now they want to use human DNA in a hybrid that could revolutionize
science and medicine. But when the pharmaceutical company that funds their research forbids it, they secretly
take their experiment underground – risking their careers to push the boundaries of science and serve their
own curiosity and ambition. The result is Dren, an amazing, strangely beautiful creature of uncommon intelligence
and unexpected physical developments. At first, Dren exceeds their wildest dreams. But as she grows and learns
at an accelerated rate, her existence threatens to become their worst nightmare.
Available on Blu-ray Combo Pack, DVD, On Demand and for Download 10/5!
http://bit.ly/splicefb
SCOOBY-DOO WHERE ARE YOU VOLUME 4
Release date: October 19, 2010
Official website: http://www.kidswb.com/
Synopsis:
This fourth frighteningly funny roundup of classic Scooby-Doo, Where Are You? Series Episodes kicks off when Fred, Velma,
Daphne, Shaggy and Scooby-Doo get lost in a swamp and ask a zombie for directions. Can they add up the clues to figure out
Which Witch Is Which? Shaggy and Scooby-Doo are then captured by Redbeard the Pirate in Go Away Ghost Ship. Zoinks! If the
case isn?t solved soon, somebody?s going to walk the plank! When the Mystery Machine runs out of fuel on a creepy abandoned
airfield, the teen sleuths run right into a Spooky Space Kook. In the final mystery, Scooby-Doo inherits big bucks from a
dead millionaire. There?s a catch: our heroes must spend a night in a haunted mansion before Scooby-Doo can collect in A
Night of Fright Is No Delight.
Synopsis
Out of the pages of the legendary comics and graphic novels steps Jonah Hex (Josh Brolin), a scarred drifter and
bounty hunter of last resort. Jonah’s past catches up with him when the U.S. military offers to wipe out the
warrants on his head if he hunts and stop dangerous terrorist Quentin Turnbull (John Malkovich).
Review:
JONAH HEX is a western version of Death Wish or other vengence-based dramas. This movie is a mix of environments --
switching from comic book sketches to live drama; further seating it into the legend of JONAH HEX as read for
years by comic book fans. Josh Brolin is good as the solemn bounty hunter who has special powers over the dead.
The best part of the movie, I hate to say, are the toys! Lance Reddick (Fringe) supplies Hex with some unbelievable
firepower.
This is not your old fashioned western with indepth characterizations or plot. The story is a simple one - revenge.
The one-liners are awesome though.
FARSCAPE: THE DEFINITIVE COLLECTION
32 DVD box set – Cert. 18 – 15 November 2010, 99.99 pounds
FARSCAPE™: THE DEFINITIVE COLLECTION from A&E™ is a fan’s dream; all 88 episodes of all four seasons of the classic
sci-fi show in one stunning box set, not to mention over 15 hours of bonus features including two disc mini-series
THE PEACEKEEPER WARS and rarely-seen special FARSCAPE UNDRESSED.
FARSCAPE follows the adventures of astronaut John Crichton, flung through a wormhole to a far off galaxy while testing
a prototype spaceship. Plunged into the midst of a battle, he is rescued by Moya, a living craft crewed by a motley
group of escaping alien prisoners being hunted by the fiercely militaristic Peacekeepers.
Featuring mind-blowing sci-fi action, superb storytelling, great special effects and character designs by The Jim
Henson Company, FARSCAPE has stood the test of time as a landmark science fiction series. Prepare for the adventure
of a lifetime with Moya’s crew – likeable hero John Crichton; renegade Peacekeeper Aeryn Sun; short-tempered warrior
Ka D'Argo; psychic priestess Zhaan; mercurial thief Chiana and deposed monarch Dominar Rygel XVI.
FARSCAPE: THE DEFINITIVE COLLECTION features all four series of the classic sci-fi show – 88 episodes – in one special
collector’s edition.
More than 15 hours of bonus material including the rarely-seen special FARSCAPE UNDRESSED as well as episode commentaries,
behind-the-scenes interviews, deleted scenes and much, much more.
Bonus 2-disc miniseries FARSCAPE: THE PEACEKEEPER WARS in which our heroes find themselves in the middle of a war-to-
end-all-wars.
THE EXORCIST: EXTENDED DIRECTOR'S CUT
This Halloween relive the fright of one of the most powerful films ever made with all-new bonus content available
for the first time ever anywhere. The all-new bonus features include revealing set footage produced and photographed
by cinematographer Owen Roizman, as well as camera and makeup tests, interviews with director William Friedkin,
actress Linda Blair, author/screenwriter/producer William Peter Blatty and Roizman himself and more.
Arrives FOR DOWNLOAD only on iTunes with all-new Bonus EXTRAS:
http://bit.ly/WBDD_EXORCIST
TOP GEAR SEASON 13
Release date: September 28, 2010
Official webiste: www.BBCAmericaShop.com
Synopsis:
Season 13 of this BAFTA-winning show skids, roars and explodes its way back onto DVD, with man versus machine
experiments, exhaustive road tests of the latest models, a look back at the history of motoring, weekly power
tests featuring the world’s most exotic super-cars… and a surprise revelation.
Hot on the heels of their epic challenge in Vietnam, Jeremy, Richard and James are no less ambitious for Season 13.
James goes for a ride with stunt-driving legend Ken Block; Richard travels to Abu Dhabi to test the new Lambo
Murcielago LP640-4 SV; the boys buy three £1,500 rear-drive sports cars and somehow find themselves entered in
a terrifying French ice race. Elsewhere, Jeremy and James attempt to understand what makes a great Volkswagen
advertisement – and then try to film one of their own. Rather predictably, it doesn’t go well. And in a television-
first, the mysterious Stig takes off his helmet to reveal just who he really is…
The Stig continues to put the rich and famous through their paces out on the test track in ‘The Star in the
Reasonably Priced Car’. Celebrities include Michael Schumacher, Olympic Gold sprinter Usain Bolt, actress
Sienna Miller (who has just passed her driving test), AC/DC’s singer Brian Johnson and ‘the biggest petrolhead
in the world’ Jay Leno.
Review:
I have loved this series from the first time I saw it. I would love to work with Jeremy, Richard and James as they
wonder the globe testing out cars and doing their hair-raising stunts! If you love cars and have a sense of humor,
this series is for you. Once you get into this show, you'll want all of the DVDs so you can catch up on what you
have missed! Oh, yes, the scenery is marvelous as well. Enjoy!
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).
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.
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).
Review:
This is one of my favorite shows. I was biting my nails waiting for word of renewal for the coming year and was
very pleased when it came. Can't wait to see what Chance and the gang get into this year.
The nice thing about this series is that each character is being developed. You learn a little more about Chance
and Winston and Guerrero -- but only a little at a time. There is no great exposition that gives you the backstory
for each of them. That is what is so enticing about the show. Who is Christopher Chance?
In addition, the guest stars included in episodes are awesome -- Lee Majors, Lennie James, Armand Asante and Amy
Acker just to name a few.
This show is just "cool."
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.
Review:
I am SO happy that the WB is releasing the Charlie Brown series again. All of the DVDs are wonderful -- with
good stories and clean fun. This classic is from 1968 when life was quite different, yet these stories have
stood the test of time. Kids will love watching Snoopy go off to boot camp and you might harken back to the time
when you were packed off to summer camp as a kid. To say these movies bring back memories, is to just scratch
the tip of the iceberg.
Also included in this special release is LIFE IS A CIRCUIS, CHARLIE BROWN and SNOOPY'S HOME ICE: THE STORY OF THE
REDWOOD EMPIRE ICE ARENA.
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.
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.
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.
Review:
SUPERNATURAL is one of those series that you just can't get enough of. Each episode is well written -- and well acted.
The series doesn't get the recognition that others do, but it is definitely a quality product. There seems to be something
for everyone. The plots are sculpted so that there is nothing wasted. You must pay attention though -- seemingly small
things will come back up later in the series! When you look back over the last season, you begin to pick out your
favorite episodes -- only to have them replaced by the new season! Dean and Sam Winchester are a winning pair!
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!
DVD REVIEWS
There are a number of DVDs coming out each month. I have divided them into two types -- regular entertainment
and family DVDs. Information about regular DVDs can be found at
DVDs. Looking for movies you can watch with your children? I have moved many of the family-oriented DVDs to
a Family DVDs page. Here you will find wonderful
DVDs you can enjoy with your entire family -- no matter the age. You will find background information about the
DVD, but there are clips as well from Warner Bros. Enjoy!
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
Over the long summer break, Fringe has been quietly releasing comic books.
Tales from the Fringe has been revealing character backstories unrevealed on the show. Comic #1 followed Peter’s
exploits in Iraq, while #2 followed Broyles’ first encounter with the alien from “Earthling.” Astrid became the
focal point of issue #3, where we learned how she came to join the FBI, while the fate of Nina’s arm in the aftermath
of the events of “Peter” was seen in issue #4. Gene the Cow’s dreams will be the focus of #5, out later this month,
and Olivia’s “early days in the Fringe division” will be the subject matter of next month’s #6.
You can order back issues of each comic for only a couple of bucks from Amazon.com, and you can also get the
big paperback compilation of the six issues for only $10.11. Of course, you’ll have to wait a while for the
144-page volume: it’s not slated to land until January.
EXCEL LONDON MCM EXPO
October 29-31, 2010
Place: Royal Victoria Dock
Guest: Peter F. Hamilton, writer
Hamilton will be hosting a panel to discuss his work and answer audience questions, and he will also be signing
books for his fans.
Media guests include stars from Warehouse 13, Eureka, Haven and many more
Comics guests include Bernard Chang; Paul Cornell; Antony Johnston; Tony Lee; Jock and Andy Diggle
For more information, go to www.londonexpo.com
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
FARPOINT 2010
February 18-20, 2011
Place: Crowne Plaza Baltimore North
City: Timonium, MD
Guests: Adam Baldwin, John Billingsley, Bonita Friedericy
For more information, go to http://www.farpointcon.com/
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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Steven Spielberg has committed to directing an adaptation of Daniel H. Wilson's robot uprising novel as his next movie.
Everyone has been waiting to see what project the genre mastermind would tackle next. 
HALLOWEEN TV
HARLAN ELLISON TYPEWRITER FOR SALE
WEEKEND BOX OFFICE
BATTLESTAR GALACTICA: BLOOD AND CHROME
CLAUDIA CHRISTIAN
AN OPEN LETTER FROM PAT TALLMAN
BABYLON 5 PRESENCE ON FACEBOOK
FARSCAPE: THE DEFINITIVE COLLECTION
THE EXORCIST: EXTENDED DIRECTOR'S CUT
TOP GEAR SEASON 13
THE MENTALIST: COMPLETE SECOND SEASON
HUMAN TARGET: COMPLETE FIRST SEASON
SUPERMAN/BATMAN: APOCALYPSE
SUPERMAN/BATMAN: APOCALYPSE-SUMMER GLAU IS SUPERGIRL
SECRET ORIGIN: THE STORY OF DC COMICS
FRINGE: THE COMPLETE SECOND SEASON
Over the long summer break, Fringe has been quietly releasing comic books. 