Babylon 5 ISN News: The Zocalo Today [an error occurred while processing this directive]
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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!

Glitter News




SUNDAY, OCTOBER 31, 2010

Saw 3D WEEKEND BOX OFFICE
In the battle of scary movies this Halloween weekend, "Saw 3D: The Final Chapter" has chisled its way to the top. According to early studio estimates, "Saw 3D" grossed $10.8 million in its first day. It's the only new wide release of the week, so its only real competition is "Paranormal Activity 2," which took in $5.9 million this weekend so far. "Saw 3D" looks to be tracking to gross about $24 million for the weekend.
The full Top 10 on Friday:
"Saw 3D" - $10.8 million
"Paranormal Activity 2" - $5.9 million
"RED" - $3.4 million
"Jackass 3D" - $3.2 million
"Hereafter" - $2.1 million
"Secretariat" - $1.6 million
"The Social Network" - $1.6 million
"Life As We Know It" - $1.4 million
"The Town" - $620,000
"Legend of the Guardian: The Owls of Ga'Hoole" $480,000

Smallville FRIDAY NIGHT RATINGS
CBS won Friday as usual, with its trio of dramas rock steady with last week.
Medium (6.9 million, 1.4), CSI: NY (10.4 million, 1.8) and Blue Bloods (11.5 million, 1.8) were all unchanged.
ABC debuted Primetime (5.4 million, 1.7), down slightly from last year, then ran 20/20 (5.4 million, 1.6).
The CW ranked third! The CW! -- with Smallville (2.9 million, 1.2) rising a tenth this week, followed by a stable Supernatural (2.5 million, 1.1).
NBC continues to play ratings limbo stick with School Pride (2.4 million, 0.6) -- How low can they go? -- down another tenth, followed by Dateline (4.9 million, 1.3).
Fox aired a repeat and The Good Guys (2.4 million, 0.7).

Darkchylde DARKCHYLDE
ShockTillYouDrop.com has breaking Halloween news that director John Carpenter (the original Halloween, The Fog and The Thing) will be directing the feature film adaptation of Randy Queen's popular comic book series Darkchylde. Announced via a special teaser poster image from Randy and Sarah Queen's Darkchylde Entertainment and Carpenter's Storm King Productions, you can read their accompanying announcement below:
"Big progress for the Darkchylde feature film adaptation. The last we reported on the potential film WETA had revealed some test FX to the public.
Today, it was revealed (on Halloween of all days), John Carpenter is on board to direct Darkchylde. The film is based on the comic by Randy Queen about an amiable southern teen cursed to become the creatures from her many recurring nightmares. Every time Ariel Chylde transforms, she sheds her skin and a new nightmare emerges from her Id to act out her deepest, darkest impulses.
John Carpenter and Sandy King's Storm King Productions have allied with Randy and Sarah Queen's Darkchylde Entertainment to produce the film, following the release of that aforementioned test footage created by Richard Taylor's Academy Award Winning Weta Workshop."

SATURDAY, OCTOBER 30, 2010

Roland Emmerich THE ZONE
According to the Hollywood Reporter, Roland Emmerich, the man who destroyed the White House and made one of the biggest alien invasion movies of all time, is secretly returning to the genre, this time in a decidedly small way.
Emmerich, who directed INDEPENDENCE DAY and is one of the masters of the modern tentpole, is gearing up to shoot THE ZONE, a stealth project that is joining the swelling ranks of the “found footage” genre, which purport to be genuine reels, tapes or files found after the person operating the camera expires.
Alien invasion flick CLOVERFIELD kicked off the trend, which also encompasses the hugely successful Paranormal Activity movies.
No plot details are known but sources say Zone revolves around an alien invasion, will be improv-based and cast with relative unknowns.
Word is that two leads were just cast, one playing a haggard journalist in his 40s or 50s, the other a black man in his early to mid 20's, the cameraman.
Emmerich, who hasn’t worked on movie with budgets of less than $100 million since 1994’s STARGATE, will be operating with only $5 million in the bank, less than what the upcoming alien invasion movie SLYLINE had to work with.
Sources say Sony will distribute the movie as a negative pick-up. The studio, a frequent home for Emmerich, had no comment. French writer-director Guillaume Tunzini penned the script and Loucas George is a producer on the pic, which will begin shooting mid-November. Sources say Sony, which had no comment, will distribute the movie as a negative pick-up.
Making Zone may signal a trend for Emmerich in that the disaster film maestro is embracing moviemaking with more modest budgets. The CAA-repped director is in post on ANONYMOUS, a political thriller set in the time of Queen Elizabeth I.

THE LEGEND OF HALLOWDEGA
ComingSoon.net's horror site ShockTillYouDrop.com had a chance to sit down with actor David Arquette during one of his rare visits to New York City to find out how he became involved in Terry Gilliam's new short film, THE LEGEND OF HALLOWDEGA, which explores the world of NASCAR, specifically the legendary Talladega Superspeedway where all the spectacular car crashes may be traced back to the legend that it was built on an old Indian burial ground.
Arquette talked about some of the crazy things he got to do in the role, plus some stuff about Wes Craven's Scream 4, and his own future horror plans.
THE LEGEND OF HALLOWDEGA premieres on the Official Site, LegendofHallowdega.com, on Halloween this Sunday, October 31, but you can get a sneak peak at the first chapter on ESPN just before the AMP Energy Juice 500 from Talladega at 1PM Eastern, also on Sunday. You can also catch the Live streaming from the red carpet premiere of the short film from Arquette's theater, Beacher's Madhouse, at 11PM Pacific tonight at the AMP Energy Facebook page.

Betty WHite MEN IN BLACK III
E!Online confirms that actress Betty White and singer Nicole Scherzinger will appear in MEN IN BLACK III.
Betty White, best known as one of the stars of "The Golden Girls" has recently had a tremendous surge in popularity, starring in films like The Proposal and You Again. Scherzinger, meanwhile, is best known as the lead singer of The Pussycat Dolls.
Scherzinger indicated that she will play a woman named Lilly. "She's like a small villain role," said Scherzinger, "I'm so excited because I get to die. I make an appearance. I say a couple of lines and then I die."
Though White's role is not named at this time, she will join the franchise returning stars, Will Smith and Tommy Lee Jones, as well as newcomers Josh Brolin, Jemaine Clement, Emma Thompson and Alec Baldwin.
MEN IN BLACK III is expected to go into production shortly with a script from Etan Cohen and David Koepp. Barry Sonnenfeld will return to the franchise as director. The film is being planned for release on May 25th, 2012.

James MacArthur JAMES MAC ARTHUR PASSES
James MacArthur, the original Danny "Danno" Williams in the original Hawaii Five-O series, died Thursday of natural causes at the age of 72. While the Hawaii Five-O role may be his most famous, he had a career that spanned decades, from Disney's SWISS FAMILY ROBINSON to his last film, REVENGE OF THE TWISTER in 1998. Our prayers and best wishes are with his family.

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.


On The Tube




8:00pm on ABC Family
Van Helsing (2004)
A monster-hunter joins forces with a beautiful woman to battle Dracula and otherworldly creatures in Transylvania. Hugh Jackman, Kate Beckinsale, Richard Roxburgh, David Wenham, Shuler Hensley

8:00pm on BBC America
Sweeney Todd: The Demon Barber of Fleet Street (2007)
After serving time for a crime he did not commit, a vengeful barber and his accomplice carve up unlucky customers and bake them in meat pies. Based on the musical by Stephen Sondheim and Hugh Wheeler. Johnny Depp, Helena Bonham Carter, Alan Rickman, Timothy Spall, Sacha Baron Cohen

10:00pm on CBS
CSI: Miami-Episode: Sleepless in Miami (NEW)
When a man claims to have dreamed of a murder before it happened, Horatio and Natalia go under cover to investigate him.

ON SYFY TONIGHT

7:00pm
Ghost Hunters
Ghost hunters investigate paranormal activity throughout the country.

Artifacts-Black Artifacts-White

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

Pen

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 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 MUMY RADIO

Bill Mumy has a new CD out. Check it out at: http://www.reverbnation.com/artist/artist_songs/648253

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."

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."

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.

Maggie Egan the ISN Reporter at
http://poplitiko.blogspot.com/2010/08/and-sky-full-of-stars-ii.html

Pat Tallman at:
http://poplitiko.blogspot.com/2010/06/and-sky-full-of-stars-i.html

Me, Sandra Bruckner:
http://poplitiko.blogspot.com/2010/05/interview-sandy-bruckner.html

Pat Tallman AN OPEN LETTER FROM PAT TALLMAN
" 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!!!!!

J. Michael Straczynski 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

I've taken the leap and started a group over on Facebook. There is a discussion page where we can talk about Babylon 5 and all things science fiction. Be sure to check it out. http://www.facebook.com/?sk=2361831622#!/group.php?gid=132854680067759





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.


Babylon Podcast BABYLON PODCAST
Welcome to Show #215!

We go over the B5 related appearances at Big Apple Con and NY Comic-Con, plus a little more news on JMS’ appearance in the upcoming Thor feature film.
We may have to refrain from posting the rules for a “Tim gripes about the Lensman Movie” drinking game, out of concern for the health and safety of our listeners.
Discussion: Tim, Summer and Bret give their opinions on hairstyles and hair care amoings humans and aliens in space in the 23rd century.
We go through the hair and hair stylings we can think of — the ever-evolving styles of Lt. Corwin; the various Centauri lengths and stylings; the pros and cons of Garibaldi’s rapid hair loss during the series; what techniques may have been used to keep Susan Ivanonva’s flowing locks so tightly braided; the never- ending experimentation with the look of hybrid Delenn’s hair; delve into the possibility of mystery hair hints for the evil vs good Talia, and the overwhelming evidence that perfect hair genes were amongst the things being manipulated by telepath genetic experiments; the enviable perfection of Morden’s hair; and the tendencies of Rangers to have thick flowing locks of hair.
And remember: John Sheridan, keytar rocker.
Voicemail: First, Summer and Bret talk about Pat Tallman appearing on Castle as the dead body whose murder the team is investigating. How do actors get compensated for appearances as the uncredited corpse?
Neil from Bowie lets us know that he used GoToMeeting for the first time and enjoyed it; Neil also throw his opinion in on what the triluminary was detecting in regards to human DNA or particular souls; Father Beast chimes in on the switch from Sinclair to Sheridan being needed to echo the parallels between Lensman and B5; a new listener weighs in on where the triluminaries came from, and Valen’s DNA or soul lineage;
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.

Blu-Ray Deal BLU-RAY SWAP
STARTING TODAY, SWAP ANY DVD YOU OWN FOR A NEW WARNER BROS. BLU-RAY DISC!
Only at www.DVD2BLU.com.

What’s NEW? For the first time with DVD2BLU.com consumers can send in ANY DVD they own (produced by any studio/ sold at retail, online) even those old dusty ones under their beds or in the garage and get a new Warner Bros. Blu-ray title in return for as low as $4.95.
Over 100 Blu-ray titles are available including Gran Torino, V For Vendetta, Superman II, Wedding Crashers, The Shining, and several other favorites.
Here’s how it works:
Visit DVD2BLU.com, view the selection of over 100 Blu-ray titles and pick the ones you want to add to your collection. Dust off those unwanted DVDs you already own and send us one (Disc Only) for every Blu-ray you wish to own. Please note only professionally produced DVDs (anything from a major/independent studio sold at retail), non Adult content will qualify. Go to check out for all of the final details and in a few weeks get your new Blu-ray(s).

Sunrise

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.

NEW MOVIE RELEASES

SPLICE
Official website: ttp://www.splicethefilm.com/

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

New DVDs




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.

JONAH HEX
Official website: http://jonah-hex.warnerbros.com/dvd/
Available on Blu-ray Combo Pack, DVD, On Demand and for Download 10/12! http://bit.ly/jhexFB

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 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 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).


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.

Mentalist 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 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

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 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.

Supergirl 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 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.

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.

Fringe 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!

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

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.

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

Fringe 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.

Calendar




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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