Search Results for: apocalypse

Idiot Apocalypse

December 21, 2012 by

I do my best to simplify things. There have been some thorny concepts presented up here that the average lay person was able to wrap their head around once I’d weeded out the hyper complex math and so on. The ability of some people to be able to sense four dimensions instead of the usual three? Explained. Putting a giant stamp on the “aliens exist but they’re not in our neighborhood” theory? The WOW Signal, explained. Why UFOs are a hoax or, at best, a result of a delusion? Explained to the satisfaction of a real NASA scientist. In other words, I pride myself on being able to help people understand complex concepts without demeaning their intellect or the core issues of the concept. It’s my superpower.

But, according to Jocelyn Vena of MTV, I may have met my match. She says Vinny from Jersey Shore can do that too.

Sure, we’re all just dancing till the world ends. But, “Jersey Shore” star Vinny insists that we’ll probably still be able to dance tomorrow.

While there is a lot of worry, especially from his pal Deena, that someone might be on to something when it comes to this whole Mayan Apocalypse thing, Vinny is fairly certain that when the clock strikes midnight, we’ll all be just fine.

‘Jersey Shore’ Star Vinny Calls Mayan Apocalypse A ‘Money-Making’ Scheme

“I’m just trying to stock up,” Deena told MTV News, noting that she thinks there’s a lot of evidence proving that any end of days theories floating around are true. “Not only ’cause it’s the Mayans. If it were just the Mayans thing, it wouldn’t really be bothering me, but they said all the planets are aligning. So I’m just preparing for all the power to go out, anything that might happen. I really wish I made enough money to make a bomb shelter, but that didn’t happen.”

Then, Vinny stepped in with words that seemed to calm her fears: “I can debunk everything. I’m a geek, so I kind of like know what’s going to happen.”

Vinny, whose scientific theories we can’t prove as true or false, then explained what he knows about the apocalypse and why it won’t happen.

“I’m no scientist, but pretty much this whole thing started, it was a money-making thing so that people can capitalize off it, make movies off of it and websites start to sell things like ‘prepare for it’ and things like that,” he said. (Sounds reasonable to us so far).

The “Jersey Shore” cast tells us their five-year plans!

He continued, “But there’s no scientific evidence, actually. You can’t plan the end of the world without scientific evidence. The planets, they will sort of align but they did it a couple years ago, nothing happens. They always align with each other.

“There’s no other planet coming towards us because we would actually see it, and the poles shifting, it takes like 1,000 years for the poles to reverse. It doesn’t happen overnight. And then the Mayan calendar, just like our calendar ends end of December/January 1, theirs ends and a new one begins. Just the fact that there’s a thousand different philosophies makes it not true.”

Whether or not the world does end, what will definitely be over on December 21 is the “Jersey Shore.” Tonight (December 20), the kids of Seaside will fist-pump for the last time as the show airs its series finale. Well, that kind of feels like the world ending to us.

I know this is the part where you wait for me to make fun of him, but I’m not going to do that. He is correct that people have been exploiting the fears of others to make money off this, and other, alleged disasters. May they rot in hell.

He is right that the planets aligned a while back and no one cared. Although he was off by about 1,500 years in his dating of the event.

And, while the “thousand different philosophies” line makes no sense whatsoever, I look at his target audience and cut him some slack.

Also, let’s be fair, just because he learned how to use Google and filter out the crap doesn’t mean he’s going to be teaching kids any time soon. Nevertheless, he’s doing better than most.

Anyway, I just wanted you to know that if you did anything to prepare for today’s apocalypse that wasn’t part of your normal daily routine, you’re an idiot. Seriously, you’re dumber than a Jersey Shore cast member. That means you are barely functional.

And if you did anything to terrify a child, you’re criminally stupid.

Now that you know you can get the help you need.

Actress Apocalypse R-rated Trailer (NSFW) from Garo Nigoghossian on Vimeo.

Listen to Bill McCormick on WBIG (FOX! Sports) every Friday around 9:10 AM.
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Sure Signs of the Apocalypse!

February 7, 2011 by

No, they are not the new line of My Little Ponies.

My grandmother used to love to quote Revelations. It’s a fun little read if you’ve missed it. Her favorite part was figuring out when the Four Horsemen of the Apocalypse would begin their fiery gallop across the tundra of humanity and end it all. As I’ve noted before, thanks to prophecies based on Revelations, among others, the world has ended over 200 times already and seems poised to do so again later this year. 10 days before Halloween, in case you had plans. Clearly, the first true sign of that impending doom is already upon us; The Green Bay Packers won the Super Bowl yesterday. While I will grant that this may not be seen as an portent of panicked predestination in the rest of the world, anyone who lives in Chicago, who has an IQ above a turnip’s, knows that any success in Green Bay means nothing but abject misery here. Worse yet, their coach Mike McCarthy has a sense of humor. Just click that link and try to imagine Lovie Smith even attempting something that cool. Especially with Playboy Playmate Jamie Edmondson portraying a bitter former cheerleader who still wears her outfit over 20 years later.

I mention Jamie since she’s a fan of this blog and visa versa. So click on her name and vote for her to be Playmate of the Year. It’s the least you can do. And we all know that you always do the absolute least you can do.

But, for those naysayers who think it was just another Super Bowl yesterday, I ask you to look around. Over 100 tons of fish have been found dead off the coast of Parana in Paranagua. Too obscure? How about the 2,000,000 dead croakers (yes, that is ironic) that were found in Chesapeake Bay. That’s in Maryland for those of you who slept through Geography in Grammar School. And none of this even begins to count the thousands more dead fish found in Arkansas.

Still not convinced?

What about the massive amounts of birds falling from the skies of Sweden, Kentucky, Arkansas (again) and the mass extinction of turtle doves in Italy?

You remember turtle doves, you got two of them for the 12 days of Christmas.

It’s gotten so bad that Google is mapping all of the incidents so you can play along at home.

“But wait,” you whine, “all of these things have rational explanations. Why are you trying to scare the pants off of people?”

Rational explanations? Pardon me while I chuckle my posterior away.

Do you mean rational explanations like this one? The one that claims that all the birds were killed by a flying semi tractor trailer?

State Agriculture Commissioner John McMillan says about 300 blackbirds found dead recently near Athens in Limestone County appear to have died from flying into or being struck by a large object, such as an tractor-trailer rig.

The state Department of Agriculture and Industries has been doing lab tests on large bird kills that occurred recently in two north Alabama counties. The results of the kill at Scottsboro in Jackson County are not yet complete.

McMillan said Wednesday the bird deaths are not considered a human health threat at this time, but the public should avoid or limit contact with any dead wild animal.

In other words, leave your collection of road kill cookbooks at home and, instead, go download the free cookbook that features Ashley Lobo and Gina Ferraro, among others. At least there’s no chance of catching Ebola from their recipes.

In the meantime, just realize that you live in a world where flying tractor trailers seem like a rational explanation and then tell me I’m wrong about the Apocalypse.

Creepy Currency?

January 25, 2018 by Bill McCormick Leave a Comment

Is crytpocurrency the death of nationalized money?

Things change. Buildings, held revered for reasons that actually defy logic when seriously contemplated, become entrenched. Tradition, history, and because mom shopped there, are all reasons touted. Things once valued highly, such as salt (yes, that is a link to the Encyclopedia of Money), become boring condiments or relegated to the dustbin of history. Essentially, what holds value now may not hold value in the future. And, as history has taught us with painful lesson after painful lesson, not everyone welcomes change. Such is the case now with nationalized money. Or, as you might know it, the dollar, the Deutschmark, the Euro, the Pound, the Loonie, the Rand, the Dinar, the Rial, the Yen, the Gourde, and so on. There are a lot of names for that stuff you keep in your wallet or under your mattress.

There is now this thing called “Cryptocurrency” and it is scaring the hell out of millions of people. Especially those with their livelihoods dependent on the stable trade of currencies between countries. But, to figure out what’s coming we first must know what’s here. And, as head slappingly obvious as it might seem to you now, you will find you probably don’t know what money is.

Let’s start simple; “Money is any item or verifiable record that is generally accepted as payment for goods and services and repayment of debts in a particular country or socio-economic context.”

In other words, if where you’re at says this or that is money, it’s money. It has value and may be used instead of barter. You need not trade a chicken for a duck. You can just hand them whatever accepted representation is in your possession and say “Thanks for the duck.” It makes transactions easier.

In America we use dollars.

So how did we get here? Let’s head on over to the International Monetary Fund for a fun history.

No, really, it’s kind of fun. And silly if taken out of context.

… (M)oney is something that holds its value over time, can be easily translated into prices, and is widely accepted. Many different things have been used as money over the years—among them, cowry shells, barley, peppercorns, gold, and silver.

At first, the value of money was anchored by its alternative uses, and the fact that there were replacement costs. For example, you could eat barley or use peppercorns to flavor food. The value you place on such consumption provides a floor for the value. Anyone could grow more, but it does take time, so if the barley is eaten the supply of money declines. On the other hand, many people may want strawberries and be happy to trade for them, but they make poor money because they are perishable. They are difficult to save for use next month, let alone next year, and almost impossible to use in trade with people far away. There is also the problem of divisibility—not everything of value is easily divided, and standardizing each unit is also tricky; for example, the value of a basket of strawberries measured against different items is not easy to establish and keep constant. Not only do strawberries make for bad money, most things do.

But precious metals seemed to serve all three needs: a stable unit of account, a durable store of value, and a convenient medium of exchange. They are hard to obtain. There is a finite supply of them in the world. They stand up to time well. They are easily divisible into standardized coins and do not lose value when made into smaller units. In short, their durability, limited supply, high replacement cost, and portability made precious metals more attractive as money than other goods.

Until relatively recently, gold and silver were the main currency people used. Gold and silver are heavy, though, and over time, instead of carrying the actual metal around and exchanging it for goods, people found it more convenient to deposit precious metals at banks and buy and sell using a note that claimed ownership of the gold or silver deposits. Anyone who wanted to could go to the bank and get the precious metal that backs the note. Eventually, the paper claim on the precious metal was delinked from the metal. When that link was broken, fiat money was born. Fiat money is materially worthless, but has value simply because a nation collectively agrees to ascribe a value to it. In short, money works because people believe that it will. As the means of exchange evolved, so did its source—from individuals in barter, to some sort of collective acceptance when money was barley or shells, to governments in more recent times.

Even though using standardized coins or paper bills made it easier to determine prices of goods and services, the amount of money in the system also played an important role in setting prices. For example, a wheat farmer would have at least two reasons for holding money: to use in transactions (cash in advance) and as a buffer against future needs (precautionary saving). Suppose winter is coming and the farmer wants to add to his store of money in anticipation of future expenses. If the farmer has a hard time finding people with money who want to buy wheat, he may have to accept fewer coins or bills in exchange for the grain. The result is that the price of wheat goes down because the supply of money is too tight. One reason might be that there just isn’t enough gold to mint new money. When prices as a whole go down, it is called deflation. On the other hand, if there is more money in circulation but the same level of demand for goods, the value of the money will drop. This is inflation—when it takes more money to get the same amount of goods and services (see “What Is Inflation?” in the March 2010 issue of F&D). Keeping the demand for and supply of money balanced can be tricky.

So what changed? Quite a lot actually. You see money has become a bit of an abstract concept. Its value is based more on perception than reality. Were the world held to a common standard, such as gold, then the amount of that standard that you held, or had immediate access to, would be your worth. That doesn’t really apply to individuals as much as countries, or accepted institutions issuing money, but the core concept is the same.

Of course, you can see the problem. All you have to do to render that type of money worthless, or seriously devallue it, is to find more of whatever the standard is. It’s called “flooding the market” and it can lead to all sorts of heinous consequences. Mostly devaluing the money people hold until it’s worthless.

The inverse is also true. A finite amount of the standard can lead a government to print and distribute more currency in an attempt to bolster the economy, think 1930’s Germany or 1970’s Mexico, and, instead, lead to situations where wheelbarrows full of local currency would be needed for a loaf of bread.

So, stability becomes an issue that needs to be dealt with. And that, as noted above in the fun article from the International Monetary Fund (you did read it, didn’t you?) is how we got to fiat money.

To recap; Fiat money is materially worthless, but has value simply because a nation collectively agrees to ascribe a value to it. In short, money works because people believe that it will.

Gold, silver, and other precious metals, still provide the basis for all currencies, and their worth still fluctuates. But, by using fiat money, those fluctuations, in and of themselves, can’t wipe out a country or its economy.

Okay, so here we are. Now, for the record, you’re reading this on a digital device. Odds are you use digital money more than you think. Whether a credit card, a PayPal link, an app from your bank, or something else, you really don’t need any hard currencies in your wallet. Hell, you really don’t need a wallet at all if you live somewhere that digital identification is accepted (not anywhere yet, so relax).

That leads us to the development of cryptocurrencies. And this is where things get weird.

Brad Mills, senior tech engineer at Block Tech, took some time a couple of years ago to do a detailed breakdown of the whole affair. Please click his name if you want the deep dive. For now I’m just going to cover the gloss.

Few people know, but cryptocurrencies emerged as a side product of another invention. Satoshi Nakamoto, the unknown inventor of Bitcoin, the first and still most important cryptocurrency, never intended to invent a currency.

In his announcement of Bitcoin in late 2008, Satoshi said he developed “A Peer-to-Peer Electronic Cash System.“

His goal was to invent something; many people failed to create before digital cash.

Announcing the first release of Bitcoin, a new electronic cash system that uses a peer-to-peer network to prevent double-spending. It’s completely decentralized with no server or central authority. – Satoshi Nakamoto, 09 January 2009, announcing Bitcoin on SourceForge.

The single most important part of Satoshi‘s invention was that he found a way to build a decentralized digital cash system. In the nineties, there have been many attempts to create digital money, but they all failed.

… after more than a decade of failed Trusted Third Party based systems (Digicash, etc), they see it as a lost cause. I hope they can make the distinction, that this is the first time I know of that we’re trying a non-trust based system. – Satoshi Nakamoto in an E-Mail to Dustin Trammell

After seeing all the centralized attempts fail, Satoshi tried to build a digital cash system without a central entity. Like a Peer-to-Peer network for file sharing.

This decision became the birth of cryptocurrency. They are the missing piece Satoshi found to realize digital cash. The reason why is a bit technical and complex, but if you get it, you‘ll know more about cryptocurrencies than most people do. So, let‘s try to make it as easy as possible:

To realize digital cash you need a payment network with accounts, balances, and transaction. That‘s easy to understand. One major problem every payment network has to solve is to prevent the so-called double spending: to prevent that one entity spends the same amount twice. Usually, this is done by a central server who keeps record about the balances.

In a decentralized network, you don‘t have this server. So you need every single entity of the network to do this job. Every peer in the network needs to have a list with all transactions to check if future transactions are valid or an attempt to double spend.

But how can these entities keep a consensus about this records?

If the peers of the network disagree about only one single, minor balance, everything is broken. They need an absolute consensus. Usually, you take, again, a central authority to declare the correct state of balances. But how can you achieve consensus without a central authority?

Nobody did know until Satoshi emerged out of nowhere. In fact, nobody believed it was even possible.

Satoshi proved it was. His major innovation was to achieve consensus without a central authority. Cryptocurrencies are a part of this solution – the part that made the solution thrilling, fascinating and helped it to roll over the world.

What are cryptocurrencies really?

If you take away all the noise around cryptocurrencies and reduce it to a simple definition, you find it to be just limited entries in a database no one can change without fulfilling specific conditions. This may seem ordinary, but, believe it or not: this is exactly how you can define a currency.

Take the money on your bank account: What is it more than entries in a database that can only be changed under specific conditions? You can even take physical coins and notes: What are they else than limited entries in a public physical database that can only be changed if you match the condition than you physically own the coins and notes? Money is all about a verified entry in some kind of database of accounts, balances, and transactions.

How miners create coins and confirm transactions

Let‘s have a look at the mechanism ruling the databases of cryptocurrencies. A cryptocurrency like Bitcoin consists of a network of peers. Every peer has a record of the complete history of all transactions and thus of the balance of every account.

A transaction is a file that says, “Bob gives X Bitcoin to Alice“ and is signed by Bob‘s private key. It‘s basic public key cryptography, nothing special at all. After signed, a transaction is broadcasted in the network, sent from one peer to every other peer. This is basic p2p-technology. Nothing special at all, again.

The transaction is known almost immediately by the whole network. But only after a specific amount of time it gets confirmed.

Confirmation is a critical concept in cryptocurrencies. You could say that cryptocurrencies are all about confirmation.

As long as a transaction is unconfirmed, it is pending and can be forged. When a transaction is confirmed, it is set in stone. It is no longer forgeable, it can‘t be reversed, it is part of an immutable record of historical transactions: of the so-called blockchain.

Only miners can confirm transactions. This is their job in a cryptocurrency-network. They take transactions, stamp them as legit and spread them in the network. After a transaction is confirmed by a miner, every node has to add it to its database. It has become part of the blockchain.

I’m going to skip over the details of how it all works and, instead, share the simple realities of cryptocurrencies. These are the parts that effect, and scare, the nice people who control economies.

1.) Irreversible: After confirmation, a transaction can‘t be reversed. By nobody. And nobody means nobody. Not you, not your bank, not the president of the United States, not Satoshi, not your miner. Nobody. If you send money, you send it. Period. No one can help you, if you sent your funds to a scammer or if a hacker stole them from your computer. There is no safety net.

2.) Pseudonymous: Neither transactions nor accounts are connected to real-world identities. You receive Bitcoins on so-called addresses, which are randomly seeming chains of around 30 characters. While it is usually possible to analyze the transaction flow, it is not necessarily possible to connect the real world identity of users with those addresses.

3.) Fast and global: Transaction are propagated nearly instantly in the network and are confirmed in a couple of minutes. Since they happen in a global network of computers they are completely indifferent of your physical location. It doesn‘t matter if I send Bitcoin to my neighbour or to someone on the other side of the world.

4.) Secure: Cryptocurrency funds are locked in a public key cryptography system. Only the owner of the private key can send cryptocurrency. Strong cryptography and the magic of big numbers makes it impossible to break this scheme. A Bitcoin address is more secure than Fort Knox.

5.) Permissionless: You don‘t have to ask anybody to use cryptocurrency. It‘s just a software that everybody can download for free. After you installed it, you can receive and send Bitcoins or other cryptocurrencies. No one can prevent you. There is no gatekeeper.

This gets more in depth but I’ll give you the basics. When you enter money into the system it doesn’t matter it’s original currency. When you do work and are granted a coin for your efforts (called mining), your money is yours. No matter what though, the transaction can’t be traced.

That’s as of today.

If quantum computing becomes real then all bets are off.

But that’s a worry for later.

Right now cryptocurrencies are beginning to be accepted as traditional currencies at banks, places of commerce, and online for transactions. There are many scams related to it, just as there are with gift cards, but that’s not a good reason for people to avoid them. The per-coin value will stabilize as time goes on. Right now it’s inflated for the same basic reason that Ferraris cost more than Kias. There aren’t enough to meet the total demand. And, for now – just like with Ferraris, that will remain the status quo until there are enough users to justify the restructuring.

Like any good frontier mining cryptocurrencies requires a reasonable investment in software (under $500 USD), and a hell of a lot of work. But it is there, it’s not going anywhere, and you may as well get used to it.

Listen to Bill McCormick on WBIG (FOX! Sports) every Friday around 9:10 AM.
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Your Year in Preview

January 18, 2018 by Bill McCormick Leave a Comment

Once upon a time, on a dark and stormy night, super hero movies were rife with cliches. In the 80’s, even though both Superman and Batman had darker vibes, the growth was more in line with which color palette the director used as opposed to what story they could tell. In the 90’s movies like Darkman (1990), The Crow (1994), Spawn (1997), and Blade (1998), just to name a few, changed the landscape. Movies could be edgy, feature African-Americans as lead characters, have plots that required brain cells to follow, and still make money. Naturally major studios, primarily run by middle aged white men, reacted as expected. They co-opted the obvious stuff (violence, booze, sexual innuendo), watered them down, and made very white movies like Iron Man and Man of Steel, among many others. Not bad movies, mind you. They were wildly popular and well made to boot. But the diverse casts, the real world ramifications, and so on, were all gone. The old-school super hero narrative took their place and the world settled in for more of the same old same old.

Or so the studios seemed to hope.

But people, those creatures who pay for the tickets and the popcorn and the pops and the bad hot dogs and the rest, began to complain. They wanted the big budget coo-coo coolness applied to movies that encompassed all that nifty, and diverse, stuff they’d seen in the 90’s.

As movies like Suicide Squad, Deadpool, and Wonder Woman got made, and fans clamored to them, the studios came to a fascinating realization. They didn’t have to make one type of film or the other. They could make very dark films like Logan and, the critically acclaimed, Attack the Block, and still make popcorn monsters like The Avengers while making goo-gobs (not a mathematical term invented by Stephen Hawkings) of money.

It’s become a win/win situation for fans.

Well, except for Ghost in the Shell. That was a last gasp attempt at whitewashing a culture, story, and characters. At least here, at World News Center, we are praying it was a last gasp. Otherwise we envision a world where something like Malcolm X-Man, starring Jim Carrey, could see the light of day.

Your thoughts and prayers, along with your unicorns and rainbows, should go here to prevent that from happening.

Anyway, the nice people over at Collider – actually for all we know they could be members of a Satanic cult which survives by sacrificing kittens on 4chan, but they seem nice – have a list of the next decade or so’s worth of upcoming superhero related films. That is because they have given up on ever seeing daylight again.

Goodbye kitties.

Since you may not have that luxury, I’ll just focus on the next twelve months of their amazing research.

Black Panther

Release Date : February 16, 2018

Director : Ryan Coogler

Cast : Chadwick Boseman, Lupita Nyong’o, Michael B. Jordan, Danai Gurira, Angela Bassett, Sterling K. Brown, Forest Whitaker, Andy Serkis, Martin Freeman, Letitia Wright, and John Kani.

What We Know So Far : The comics character made quite the impression with his first appearance in Captain America: Civil War , and he gets his own feature film not long after. 42 star Chadwick Boseman is filling the role of the powerful native of Wakanda, an African nation that is isolated from the rest of the world. Marvel says the crux of the film will be how this isolationist nation meets the world, so expect some friction. Selma director Ava DuVernay came close to signing on, but ultimately opted not to helm the film over concerns her artistic voice would be lost in the final product. Subsequently, Marvel hired Joe Robert Cole—who came up through the Marvel Studios writing program—to pen the script, and finally nabbed Creed and Fruitvale Station helmer Ryan Coogler to fill the director’s chair and co-write. He’s forging ahead with quite possibly the most exciting MCU film to date, and he announced his intention to fill out the cast with 90% African and African-American actors, establishing a fantastic ensemble with folks like Oscar-winner Lupita Nyong’o as Nakia, Danai Gurira as Oyoke, and his Creed and Fruitvale star Michael B. Jordan as villain Erik Killmonger.

The story of Black Panther will find T’Challa returning to his technologically advanced homeland of Wakanda after the events of Civil War , only to find himself drawn into a dangerous conflict with an old enemy.

Avengers: Infinity War

Release Date : May 4, 2018

Directors : Joe and Anthony Russo

Cast : Everybody

What We Know So Far : Marvel is finally tackling the Infinity War storyline, and it’ll take two films to tell it. The main antagonist will be Thanos (played by Josh Brolin), although he’ll be joined by his Black Order aka the “Children of Thanos” as subvillains the Avengers heroes will have to defeat first. Indeed, the film stars nearly every single character who’s appeared in the MCU before in what’s said to be a “culmination event.” Captain America: The Winter Soldier and Captain America: Civil War directors Joe and Anthony Russo direct both Infinity War and its untitled sequel, which are being shot back-to-back. Moreover, Infinity War was shot entirely using IMAX’s brand new digital cameras. No pressure.

Deadpool 2

Release Date : May 18, 2018

Director : David Leitch

Cast : Ryan Reynolds, Josh Brolin, Zazie Beets, T.J. Miller

What We Know So Far : While Deadpool director Tim Miller was originally supposed to return to helm Deadpool 2, he left the sequel in Fall 2016 over creative differences. Reynolds and 20th Century Fox subsequently set John Wick and Atomic Blonde director David Leitch to take over, but then came the long process of casting two major new roles. Domino, the female lead, went to Atlanta breakout Zazie Beets, while the casting of Cable proved as lengthy as it was complex. Names like Michael Shannon and David Harbour surfaced, and Brad Pitt at one point considered the role, but ultimately Josh Brolin is the one who signed on to play Deadpool’s favorite frenemy.

Ant-Man and the Wasp

Release Date : July 6, 2018

Director : Peyton Reed

Cast : Paul Rudd, Evangeline Lily, Michael Douglas, Michelle Pfeiffer, Walton Goggins, Laurence Fishburne, Michael Peña, Randall Park, Judy Greer and Hannah John-Kamen

What We Know So Far : Evangeline Lily‘s Wasp will be the co-star of this film and not just the “female lead”, making this Marvel Studios’ first release in which the heroine is in the title. Plot-wise we don’t know much, but Michelle Pfeiffer is playing Janet Van Dyne, so we presume the story will at least partially revolve around heading to the Quantum Realm to rescue her. Meanwhile Walton Goggins plays the villainous Sonny Burch.

Venom

Release Date: October 5, 2018

Director : Ruben Fleischer

Cast: Tom Hardy, Riz Ahmed, Michelle Williams, and Jenny Slate

What We Know So Far: This Sony Pictures spinoff is intended to kick off a new loosely-connected universe of Marvel Comics adaptations, but Venom will not take place in the same universe as the Marvel Studios/Sony co-production Spider-Man: Homecoming . This is planned as an R-rated adaptation of the symbiote storyline, described as something of a twist on the horror genre, and Venom will be portrayed as an anti-hero with Carnage serving as the villain. The movie takes place in San Francisco and is primarily based on two comics arcs: Planet of the Symbiotes and Lethal Protector .

Aquaman

Release Date : December 21, 2018

Director : James Wan

Cast : Jason Momoa, Amber Heard, Patrick Wilson, Nicole Kidman, Dolph Lundgren, and Willem Dafoe

What We Know So Far : Momoa made his first appearance in Batman v Superman: Dawn of Justice and will be part of the Justice League ensemble. Warner Bros. has enlisted Furious 7 and The Conjuring helmer James Wan to direct, and after attempting to fast-track this thing to production with multiple screenwriters writing separate drafts, Wan and DC Films head Geoff Johns convened, nailed down the story, and set Gangster Squad scribe Will Beall to pen the script. The ensemble cast includes Nicole Kidman as Queen Atlanna and Patrick Wilson as the film’s antagonist, Aquaman’s half-brother Orm.

X-Men: Dark Phoenix

Release Date : November 2, 2018

Director : Simon Kinberg

Cast : Sophie Turner, Tye Sheridan, Kodi Smit-McPhee, Alexandra Shipp, James McAvoy, Jennifer Lawrence, Michael Fassbender, Nicholas Hoult, and Evan Peters

What We Know So Far : The sequel to X-Men: Apocalypse has been firmed up as Dark Phoenix , which will tackle the beloved Jean Grey story arc from the comics that was first broached (and botched) in X-Men: The Last Stand . X-Men writer/producer Simon Kinberg has penned the script and is making his directorial debut on the project, which also stars Jessica Chastain as maybe the villain Lilandra and is bringing back pretty much the entire main X-Men cast.

Spider-Man: Into the Spider-Verse

Release Date : December 14, 2018

Directors: Bob Perschietti, Peter Ramsey

Cast : Shameik Moore and Liev Schrieber

What We Know So Far : Sony originated this animated Spider-Man movie with an idea by Phil Lord and Chris Miller, with Lord penning the script solo while the duo prepped their untitled Han Solo spinoff. This animated feature will kick off a new Spider-Man franchise different from the live-action one, but the kicker is that the Spider-Man of this movie is the black Miles Morales, not Peter Parker. Which means we’ll get our first non-white Spider-Man in 2018. Dope standout Shameik Moorehas been set to voice Spidey, while Liev Schreiber is playing the film’s villain—although character details are under wraps. Schreiber, however, has teased that the film has a throwback tone.

The story finds Morales slipping into an alternate dimension populated by a variety of different Spider-Men—which is how Peter Parker comes into play.

Hellboy

Release Date : January 11, 2019

Director : Neil Marshall

Cast : David Harbour, Ian McShane, Milla Jovovich, Daniel Dae Kim, Sasha Lane

What We Know So Far : Hellboy creator Mike Mignola came up with the story for this new reboot as opposed to moving forward with a third film in Guillermo del Toro‘s established franchise, and Stranger Things standout David Harbour fills the role of the titular character for director Neil Marshall, who helmed The Descent and a couple standout Game of Thrones episodes. The film is loosely based the Rise of the Blood Queen arc with Milla Jovovich filling that villainous role, while Ian McShane plays Trevor Bruttenholm and Daniel Dae Kim fills the part of Ben Daimio. Oh, and this is 100% Rated R.

*******************

A couple of fun notes. Wonder Woman and Spiderman: Homecoming set records for an origin film and reboot, respectively, with films that avoided most of your favorite tropes and involved diverse casts without focusing on them (i.e., making them tokens). Black Panther, mentioned above, is set to blow both of them away on its opening weekend. Not combined, mind you, but we’re still talking nutty money here.

More interestingly, The Spider-Verse film, noted above, will feature a bi-racial, possibly bisexual, lead character in a cartoon aimed at younger audiences. And no one seems to be batting an eye. How much of that they will deal with in the film remains to be seen, but fans of Miles Morales, the new Spiderman, are aware of those details and will be looking for them.

Hopefully, please God, Hollywood will finally realize the future is here. The U.S. population will be fewer than 50% white people by 2050 (the same year that all chocolate will be gone from the face of the Earth if things don’t change – but that’s another story), and white people are already less than 25% of the world’s population. If you’re not marketing to the other 75% you’re an idiot.

And the white, middle aged, men who run Hollywood may be many things, some of them despicable, but they are not stupid.

It is very odd the places we find hope, but we do manage to find it.

Make sure to watch the video below for some more.

Listen to Bill McCormick on WBIG (FOX! Sports) every Friday around 9:10 AM.
Stay up to date with his podcasts here and here.
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Supe-A-Dee-Do-Da!

September 29, 2017 by Bill McCormick Leave a Comment

The new ad for the popcorn is a humdinger!

At the beginning of the month I took a look at the super powered TV shows that were coming to a screen in your home. And only yours. No one but you would be able to see them. Today, thanks to Adam Chitwood over at Collider, we’ll dumpster dive into the upcoming films. One thing I’ve done is remove all vague releases. Those are ones with assigned dates but no title, no cast, or just one cast member, and could end up being anything or nothing. One example would be the untitled film starring Ben Affleck slated for November 1, 2019. That could be the Batman solo film, the Nightwing Film, or something else entirely. I should note that there are a dozen or so dates held out like that between the primary companies making super hero movies. This list doesn’t even begin to contemplate supernatural or general science fiction films, which are another lengthy list all their own.

Just to give some sort of update here, so you can stop reading emails your Uncle Elmo keeps sending to show how hep he is, the following items are true; as of this writing Wonder Woman is the highest grossing origin film ever, Spider Man: Homecoming, far from being a bust, is now the highest grossing superhero film of the year. In other words, the market’s still there and isn’t going anywhere any time soon.

Anyway, as you plow through this chronological list, keep in mind that I haven’t added trailers since we live in a finite universe and you’ll, one day, need to get back to work.

So, without further ado, away we go!

Thor: Ragnarok

Release Date: November 3, 2017

Director: Taika Waititi

Cast: Chris Hemsworth, Tom Hiddleston, Mark Ruffalo, Cate Blanchett, Jeff Goldblum, Tessa Thompson, Karl Urban, Idris Elba, and Anthony Hopkins.

What We Know So Far: The title most likely refers to the event from Nordic mythology in which catastrophic destruction comes to Asgard, submerging the entire world underwater and killing nearly every god. Marvel says the “Norse End of Days” is coming to the Marvel Cinematic Universe. They tapped What We Do in the Shadows director Taika Waititi to take the helm, making for a very curious hire given his background in comedy. Cate Blanchett leads the villain charge as Hela, Tessa Thompson is Valkyrie, and Karl Urban is the villainous muscle Skurge, while the MCU is about to get a lot weirder with Jeff Goldblum as Grandmaster, one of the Elders of the Universe. The tone of the film is radically different from the previous Thor movies, and Hulk has a supporting/co-starring role.

Justice League

Release Date: November 17, 2017

Directors: Zack Snyder and Joss Whedon

Cast: Henry Cavill, Ben Affleck, Ezra Miller, Gal Gadot, Jason Momoa, Ray Fisher, Amy Adams, Jeremy Irons, J.K. Simmons, Willem Dafoe, and Amber Heard.

What We Know So Far: Warner Bros.’ highly anticipated Justice League unites Affleck as Batman, and Adams as Lois Lane, along with Jason Momoa’s Aquaman, Ezra Miller’s The Flash, Gal Gadot’s Wonder Woman, and Ray Fisher’s Cyborg. The villain of Justice League is Steppenwolf, who we saw Lex Luthor summoning in a deleted scene from Batman v Superman. As evidenced by the trailers there certainly appears to be a lighter tone, and the film will broaden the DCEU so far with J.K. Simmons as the new Commissioner Gordon and Amber Heard as Aquaman character Mera. And Cavill’s Superman is in the mix here somewhere/somehow. The film also marks a curious collaboration, as Snyder left the film during post-production to tend to a personal tragedy while Joss Whedon came in to oversee the final editing and to direct reshoots.

Black Panther

Release Date: February 16, 2018

Director: Ryan Coogler

Cast: Chadwick Boseman, Lupita Nyong’o, Michael B. Jordan, Danai Gurira, Angela Bassett, Sterling K. Brown, Forest Whitaker, Andy Serkis, Martin Freeman, Letitia Wright, and John Kani.

What We Know So Far: The comics character made quite the impression with his first appearance in Captain America: Civil War, and he gets his own feature film not long after. 42 star Chadwick Boseman is filling the role of the powerful native of Wakanda, an African nation that is isolated from the rest of the world. Marvel says the crux of the film will be how this isolationist nation meets the world, so expect some friction. Selma director Ava DuVernay came close to signing on, but ultimately opted not to helm the film over concerns her artistic voice would be lost in the final product. Subsequently, Marvel hired Joe Robert Cole—who came up through the Marvel Studios writing program—to pen the script, and finally nabbed Creed and Fruitvale Station helmer Ryan Coogler to fill the director’s chair and co-write. He’s forging ahead with quite possibly the most exciting MCU film to date, and he announced his intention to fill out the cast with 90% African and African-American actors, establishing a fantastic ensemble with folks like Oscar-winner Lupita Nyong’o as Nakia, Danai Gurira as Oyoke, and his Creed and Fruitvale star Michael B. Jordan as villain Erik Killmonger.

The story of Black Panther will find T’Challa returning to his technologically advanced homeland of Wakanda after the events of Civil War, only to find himself drawn into a dangerous conflict with an old enemy.

New Mutants

Release Date: April 13, 2018

Director: Josh Boone

Cast: Anya Taylor-Joy, Maisie Williams, Alice Braga, Charlie Heaton, Blu Hunt, Henry Zaga

What We Know So Far: Writer/director Josh Boone (The Fault in Our Stars) has been attached to direct New Mutants for some time now, but 20th Century Fox has finally confirmed the film with a spring 2018 release date. The film is said to be both YA-esque and horror-tinged in tone, revolving around a group of much younger mutants in the X-Men universe than the adults from the proper X-Men movies. The story will also ditch traditional superhero costumes and supervillains in favor of telling a story about these young mutants locked up together in some facility. James McAvoy has been rumored to be reprising his role as Professor X in the film.

This will be the cinematic debut of Squirrel Girl. Click the link, learn all there is to learn about her, and get excited. She is, hands down, one of my favorite, and most fun, characters.

Avengers: Infinity War

Release Date: May 4, 2018

Directors: Joe and Anthony Russo

Cast: Everybody

What We Know So Far: Marvel is finally tackling the Infinity War storyline, and it’ll take two films to tell it. The main antagonist will be Thanos (played by Josh Brolin), although he’ll be joined by his Black Order aka the “Children of Thanos” as subvillains the Avengers heroes will have to defeat first. Indeed, the film stars nearly every single character who’s appeared in the MCU before in what’s said to be a “culmination event.” Captain America: The Winter Soldier and Captain America: Civil War directors Joe and Anthony Russo direct both Infinity War and its untitled sequel, which are being shot back-to-back. Moreover, Infinity War was shot entirely using IMAX’s brand new digital cameras. No pressure.

Deadpool 2

Release Date: June 1, 2018

Director: David Leitch

Cast: Ryan Reynolds, Josh Brolin, Zazie Beets, T.J. Miller

What We Know So Far: While Deadpool director Tim Miller was originally supposed to return to helm Deadpool 2, he left the sequel in Fall 2016 over creative differences. Reynolds and 20th Century Fox subsequently set John Wick and Atomic Blonde director David Leitch to take over, but then came the long process of casting two major new roles. Domino, the female lead, went to Atlanta breakout Zazie Beets, while the casting of Cable proved as lengthy as it was complex. Names like Michael Shannon and David Harbour surfaced, and Brad Pitt at one point considered the role, but ultimately Josh Brolin is the one who signed on to play Deadpool’s favorite frenemy.

And, no, despite many fans clamoring for it, there will be no sex scene, implied or otherwise, between Deadpool and Spider Man. Not that stating this fact will even slow down the Internet, but a scribe must try.

Ant-Man and the Wasp

Release Date: July 6, 2018

Director: Peyton Reed

Cast: Paul Rudd, Evangeline Lily, Michael Douglas, Michelle Pfeiffer, Walton Goggins, Laurence Fishburne, Michael Peña, Randall Park, Judy Greer and Hannah John-Kamen

What We Know So Far: Evangeline Lily‘s Wasp will be the co-star of this film and not just the “female lead”, making this Marvel Studios’ first release in which the heroine is in the title. Plot-wise we don’t know much, but Michelle Pfeiffer is playing Janet Van Dyne, so we presume the story will at least partially revolve around heading to the Quantum Realm to rescue her. Meanwhile Walton Goggins plays the villainous Sonny Burch.

Venom

Release Date: October 5, 2018

Director: Ruben Fleischer

Cast: Tom Hardy

What We Know So Far: This Sony Pictures spinoff is intended to kick off a new loosely-connected universe of Marvel Comics adaptations, but Venom will not take place in the same universe as the Marvel Studios/Sony co-production Spider-Man: Homecoming. This is planned as an R-rated adaptation of the symbiote storyline, described as something of a twist on the horror genre, and Venom will be portrayed as an anti-hero with Carnage serving as the villain.

Yes, the symbiote can extend its appendages, yes it can be a swirling mass of death dealing whips, and, NO DAMNIT, there will be no kinky sex scenes between the symbiote and anyone. Seriously, what the hell is wrong with you people? The R rating will be for violence and, maybe, a gratuitous boob like they had in Logan.

Aquaman

Release Date: December 21, 2018

Director: James Wan

Cast: Jason Momoa, Amber Heard, Patrick Wilson, Nicole Kidman, Dolph Lundgren, and Willem Dafoe

What We Know So Far: Momoa made his first appearance in Batman v Superman: Dawn of Justice and will be part of the Justice League ensemble. Warner Bros. has enlisted Furious 7 and The Conjuring helmer James Wan to direct, and after attempting to fast-track this thing to production with multiple screenwriters writing separate drafts, Wan and DC Films head Geoff Johns convened, nailed down the story, and set Gangster Squad scribe Will Beall to pen the script. The ensemble cast includes Nicole Kidman as Queen Atlanna and Patrick Wilson as the film’s antagonist, Aquaman’s half-brother Orm.

X-Men: Dark Phoenix

Release Date: November 2, 2018

Director: Simon Kinberg

Cast: Sophie Turner, Tye Sheridan, Kodi Smit-McPhee, Alexandra Shipp, James McAvoy, Jennifer Lawrence, Michael Fassbender, Nicholas Hoult, and Evan Peters

What We Know So Far: The sequel to X-Men: Apocalypse has been firmed up as Dark Phoenix, which will tackle the beloved Jean Grey story arc from the comics that was first broached (and botched) in X-Men: The Last Stand. X-Men writer/producer Simon Kinberg has penned the script and is making his directorial debut on the project, which may also star Jessica Chastain as the villain Lilandra and is bringing back pretty much the entire main X-Men cast.

Untitled Animated Spider-Man
(Miles Morales)

Release Date: December 14, 2018

Directors: Bob Perschietti, Peter Ramsey

Cast: Shameik Moore and Liev Schrieber

What We Know So Far: Sony originated this animated Spider-Man movie with an idea by Phil Lord and Chris Miller, with Lord penning the script solo while the duo prepped their untitled Han Solo spinoff. This animated feature will kick off a new Spider-Man franchise different from the live-action one, but the kicker is that the Spider-Man of this movie is the black Miles Morales, not Peter Parker. Which means we’ll get our first non-white Spider-Man in 2018. Dope standout Shameik Moore has been set to voice Spidey, while Liev Schreiber is playing the film’s villain—although character details are under wraps. Schreiber, however, has teased that the film has a throwback tone.

A side note here, there is a cut scene in Spider Man: Homecoming which would lead a dedicated viewer to assume that Miles Morales may make an appearance in a future live action film. The character who’s supposed to be his uncle does appear in the film so we shall see what we shall see.

Captain Marvel

Release Date: March 8, 2019

Director: Anna Boden and Ryan Fleck

Cast: Brie Larson and Samuel L. Jackson

What We Know So Far: Marvel’s first female-led superhero film will revolve around the most powerful character in the entire Marvel Cinematic Universe. This iteration of Captain Marvel will focus on the character of Carol Danvers, whose adventures are earthbound but whose powers are based in the cosmic realm. Joss Whedon wanted to introduce the character at the end of Avengers: Age of Ultron, but Marvel didn’t want to bring Captain Marvel into the MCU fully formed without first telling her origin story. Meg LeFauve (Inside Out) and Nicole Perlman (Guardians of the Galaxy) are writing the screenplay, and Oscar-winning Room actress Brie Larson has been set to star. And after a lengthy director’s search, Marvel settled on Half Nelson and Mississippi Grind filmmakers Anna Boden and Ryan Fleck.

This film will be a prequel to the MCU, taking place in the 90s and bringing the comics characters the Skrulls into the mix as the villains. That could have major repercussions leading into Avengers 4, but Captain Marvel will also give us a two-eyed Nick Fury.

The fact that some leaked footage got made into a full trailer, tells you all you need to know about how much fans want this movie to get made and get made well.

Shazam!

Release Date: April 5, 2019

Director: David F. Sandberg

Cast: TBD

What We Know So Far: Making his superhero movie debut, Dwayne Johnson opted to take on the role of the villainous Black Adam in this DC comics adaptation, but Warner Bros. has now decided to hold Johnson for a separate Black Adam movie, so Shazam will be all about that hero. Lights Out and Annabelle: Creation director David F. Sandberg is directing, and this is being planned as Warner Bros.’ next DCEU film in production after Aquaman.

Spider-Man: Homecoming 2

Release Date: July 5, 2019

Director: Jon Watts

Cast: Tom Holland

What We Know So Far: Nothing, but obviously Sony and Marvel Studios plan on Spider-Man: Homecoming launching a franchise, and Sony has already slated the sequel. Bolstered by the positive response to Homecoming, director Jon Watts is returning.

There is one thing to consider, at the end of the first movie there is a scene between the Vulture (Michael Keaton) and a prisoner named Mac Gargan, who has a scorpion tattoo (yes, fans noticed this). Given that the Tinkerer, the dude who made the Vulture’s gear, is still on the loose at the end of the first film it’s not hard to see him hooking up with the prisoner to give us a new villain for the second. And, as true fans know, Scorpion is a great villain.

Wonder Woman 2

Release Date: December 13, 2019

Director: TBA

Cast: Gal Gadot

What We Know So Far: Very little, but Wonder Woman marked a major turning point for the DCEU with wildly positive reviews and massive box office, so anticipation is high. Negotiations are ongoing with Patty Jenkins to return to direct, and while rumors have swirled about a potential 1980s-set sequel revolving around the Cold War, Jenkins is said to be already working on a story treatment with Geoff Johns.

Gambit

Release Date: TBD

Director: TBD

Cast: Channing Tatum

What We Know So Far: Tatum has been keen on playing the X-Men mutant for a while now, and 20th Century Fox finally pulled the trigger on a standalone movie for the fan-favorite Cajun. Production had initially been slated to begin Fall 2015, but when it was pushed back to early 2016, director Rupert Wyatt abruptly dropped out due to personal reasons. Doug Liman (Edge of Tomorrow) subsequently signed on to direct, and while producer Simon Kinberg told us the film will be a heist picture and a “sexy thriller”, the film was pulled from its October 2016 release date and is now listed as TBD. Moreover, due to the delays, Liman has since departed to helm Warner Bros.’ Justice League Dark movie.

Educated guess here, I doubt this thing ever sees the light of day. This is the fourth iteration and it’s already kicked almost half a decade down the road. Gambit isn’t a tough character to get right so I have no idea why the girls aren’t getting the eye candy they deserve.

The Flash: Flashpoint

Release Date: TBA

Director: TBA

Cast: Ezra Miller, Ray Fisher, Kiersey Clemons, and Billy Crudup

What We Know So Far: Miller made his brief debut in Batman v Superman: Dawn of Justice, but he’s a fully fledged star of the Justice League. After tasking Phil Lord and Chris Miller with penning a treatment only to see them head off to direct the Han Solo Star Wars film (and then leave that), the studio subsequently tapped Seth Grahame-Smith to make his directorial debut on the superhero picture. Alas, after the disappointing reception to Batman v Superman, Warner Bros. opted to change course and parted ways with Grahame-Smith, seeking to find a more established filmmaker in his stead. They settled on Dope filmmaker Rick Famuyiwa, working from Grahame-Smith’s script that was a buddy film of sorts between Flash and Cyborg. But after months of developing the project and with casting underway (Dope standout Kiersey Clemons landed the role of Iris West), Famuyiwa exited the project in late October.

This put the March 2018 release date in doubt, as it was dependent upon production getting underway in early 2017. Now, Miller is due to start filming Fantastic Beasts 2 in mid-2017, which would push production of The Flash to late 2017 or early 2018, meaning the March 2018 date is now pretty much impossible. Not to mention the fact that this movie still doesn’t have a director.

Some big names have been mentioned like Robert Zemeckis, and Warner Bros. announced at Comic-Con that this Flash movie will be an adaptation of the Flashpoint time travel comics storyline, which could give WB a way to reboot the DCEU somewhat.

Batgirl

Release Date: TBA

Director: Joss Whedon

Cast: TBA

What We Know So Far: Warner Bros. pulled Joss Whedon over from Marvel to write and direct a Batgirl movie. We don’t know much, but Whedon has said he may favor hiring an unknown or little-known actress in the lead role. But this one may be coming a bit later than intended, as Whedon is spearheading Justice League post-production through November 2017.

Given that there are numerous fan films featuring Batgirl, we are almost at the point where Warner could go and steal the plots from the uncopywritten flicks and just have at it. I should note some of them are fucking awesome.

Suicide Squad 2

Release Date: TBA

Director: TBA

Cast: TBA

What We Know So Far: David Ayer definitely isn’t coming back to direct this sequel, and Warner Bros. looked at some intriguing names for his replacement. Mel Gibson was approached towards the end of 2016, but Warner Bros. eventually moved on and currently has its eye on Jaume Collet-Serra of The Shallows and Non-Stop fame to take the helm.

Suicide Squad was a bullet train on meth. I would guess they’ll slow things down a little for this one and let us get to know the characters a touch more.

Green Lantern Corps

Release Date: TBD

Director: TBD

Cast: TBD

What We Know So Far: This will be a reboot of the Warner Bros. franchise so Ryan Reynolds is not expected to reprise his role — plus he’s also busy being Deadpool for Fox. Green Lantern is rumored to make his first appearance at the end of either Justice League Part One or Justice League Part Two when he warns the team that Darkseid is on his way to bring destruction to Earth. But the title of the reboot tells us this will be a team-up film featuring two Green Lanterns. Tyrese Gibson has been openly campaigning for one of the roles, as the film will find Hal Jordan and John Stewart in a Lethal Weapon-type situation. Warner Bros. recently kicked the tires on this one, hiring David S. Goyer (Batman Begins, Man of Steel) to co-write the script with Justin Rhodes.

No matter what I would sincerely doubt that Dex Starr, the super powered kitty version of Green Lantern, will make an appearance. Unless something goes horribly wrong.

Justice League Dark

Release Date: TBD

Director: TBD

Cast: TBD

What We Know So Far: Warner Bros. has been developing an adaptation of Justice League Dark for awhile now, with Guillermo del Toro first writing a script a few years ago before departing the project. But with the DCEU now up and running, Edge of Tomorrow and The Bourne Identity helmer Doug Liman signed on to direct in August 2016, and then left the project in May 2017. WB is already looking for a replacement and is eyeing an A-List ensemble for the pic, which focuses on the DC superheroes with more supernatural powers as opposed to the bright and shiny heroes of the Justice League proper. The protagonists of Justice League Dark aren’t exactly antiheroes either, as the comics lineup has included folks like John Constantine and Swamp Thing.

For those who’ve missed it, the cartoon version of this film just missed an R rating. Since Batman, a rationalist, makes an appearance in the cartoon it’s not out of the question to think this is the new Affleck movie that didn’t have a name.

Gotham City Sirens

Release Date: TBD

Director: David Ayer

Writer: David Ayer

Cast: Margot Robbie

What We Know So Far: Shortly after the release of Suicide Squad, Margot Robbie put in motion a female-centric spinoff film that would follow her Harley Quinn and other DC characters like Poison Ivy. This one’s still deep in development, but it’s definitely on the table.

Yes, Harley Quinn & Poison Ivy have a sexual relationship in the comics. But, I’m sorry to burst your bubble here, if you think that Warner, et al, is going to spend $100 MIL on a soft core lesbian porno you’re sadly mistaken. I don’t care how carefully they prune the shrubs.

Cyborg

Release Date: TBD

Director: TBD

Cast: Ray Fisher

What We Know So Far: Fisher was first introduced in Batman v Superman: Dawn of Justice and will play a role in Justice League, and while a Cyborg movie was on WB’s ambitious initial slate, the status of the project is unclear at the moment.

I would tell you to watch for this movie to get pushed up a bit if the character resonates with fans the way it does in the Justice League trailers.

In any case, this should keep you busy for a while. See you at the movies!

Listen to Bill McCormick on WBIG (FOX! Sports) every Friday around 9:10 AM.
Stay up to date with his podcasts here and here.
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Helping Waste Your Time

March 2, 2016 by

This is how we roll at the World News Center command desk.

So you’re sitting at home, naked on a beanbag, eating Cheetos and wondering how best to entertain yourself. We’ve all been there. It can be the highlight of the week for many. Hell, it can be the thrill of a lifetime if it’s done right. But, and I’m going out on a limb here, what if you want just a little bit more? Maybe something to actually watch or enjoy? Well, today, and today only, I’m going to try and give you some options. Some you may have heard about in between the 1-900 ads and offers for time shares. Others you’ll have no clue. That’s okay, that’s why I’m here. I’ve been trolling the darkest corners of the internet to find you stuff. And, boy oh boy, have I found some cool stuff.

First off, I know that several readers were all aflutter about the impending movie featuring that sexy Cajun, Gambit. Some even had October 7, 2016, circled on their calendars. Sadly Fox has removed the film from its schedule and production appears to have been put off. No reasons were given.

Here’s the list of high profile flicks that are still coming out this year.

2016:
March 25: Batman v Superman: Dawn of Justice
May 6: Captain America: Civil War
May 27: X-Men: Apocalypse (Fox)
June 3: Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: Out of the Shadows
August 5: Suicide Squad
November 4: Doctor Strange

For a list of every major movie coming out in 2016, CLICK HERE!

Some fun notes for your perusal. Batman -v- Superman: Dawn of Justice will have an R rated version when it comes to DVD / Blu Ray / etc. While rumors abound, thank you Internet people, our sources say a couple of the scenes between Gal Gadot and Ben Afflack got a little steamy and that some of the Batman scenes got a little extra violent. That would fit with where the comic books are at so I’m looking forward to it.

On the Captain America: Civil War side of things, reports from screenings are saying the movie is incredible and the last third plays out like an “emotional horror movie.” Reviewers are also saying Spiderman is great, Black Panther is amazing, and you’ll need to bring hankies for the end.

But you could have hit Google to find out that stuff. Just don’t do that while sitting in one of Google’s self driving cars. Those bad boys have been racking up accidents like teenagers after their first beers.

Anyway, you need more options, and I have them.

I have already written about Ultraman, Sky Sharks, and Iron Sky: The Coming Race. So, today, I’m going to focus on some stuff that you can get involved with in a variety of ways.

Let’s get started.

First off I bring you BODY JUMPERS, a web series that started in 2012 and has done nothing but get better as it has gone along. It’s about a female agent named Shia’ra is sent to Earth to protect the humans from other powerful aliens led by Primus. It was the winner of Best Web Series at The International Euro Film Festival 2015 and of Best Special Effects at the Urban Action Showcase Expo 2015!

Next up brings us a cool flick called AIRLORDS OF AIRIA. It’s currently just a short but they are working on making a full length version. The plot is pretty straightforward, but that doesn’t make it any less fun to watch. Airlord Karak, admiral of a fleet of airships, discovered a powerful ancient weapon on an expedition. After he conquered the Wodnik 7 naval base, he plots to seize power of the Airia Republic and drag the entire continent into war. Lura the chief of police joins forces with a gang of smugglers in order to thwart the power-hungry admiral’s plans.

Moving on we get to PIONEER ONE. This web series started out in 2010 and was a hit from the day it came out. The plot allows them a lot of room to move and they take it gleefully. An object falls from the sky, spreading radiation over North America. Fearing terrorism, Homeland Security Agents are dispatched to investigate and contain the damage. What they find will have implications for the entire world.

“But these are already started,” you whine, “how can we be the cool kids on the block and know stuff before anyone else?”

First off, quit whining, it’s unbecoming. Second, keep reading.

First up, I bring you GIRLS HEIST OUT by Rob Wieland. You might know him.

I’m Rob Wieland. I’ve been telling stories on tabletops for twenty years. I’ve worked on big licenses like Shadowrun, Firefly and Star Wars. I’ve worked on small games like Our Last Best Hope, CHILL 3rd Edition and The Edge of Midnight. My own worlds include CAMELOT Trigger and Save Game.

Comics mean a lot to me. My grandfather taught me to read using comic books. I want to step out from tabletop game writing into creating comic books and Girls’ Heist Out is the first story that’s demanded to be told. I believe that creative people should consume what they create and it is a great time to be a comic book fan. This is a story inspired by my love of Darwyn Cooke and Ed Brubaker’s Catwoman run, Gail Simone’s Batgirl and Kurtis Wiebe’s Rat Queens.

Here’s a taste of what you’re in for.

TUSKEGEE HEIRS has been one of the hottest topics on comic book message boards for the last year, and deservedly so. The plot, “Tuskegee Heirs is a futuristic sci-fi adventure that follows a squadron of young, gifted aviators who are forced to become Earth’s last line of defense against a menacing race of artificially intelligent villains bent on destroying civilization” doesn’t really do it justice. It’s a mix of historical and scientific fact blended with a ripping yarn. The video below gives the history of it all.

Lastly, I give you DAETRIX EPOC AWAKENING. Daetrix is a real person. He is a graphic artist and musician with a singular vision. This is a chronicle of his personal battles with sleep paralysis and the dreams/visions/alternate realities it implies. There is a private video online that you can see via THIS LINK.

Yeah, that’s right, you’re so fucking cool you get a private link. None of your loser friends have a private link.

All of the new materials are in various stages of production and offer a plethora of ways for you to stay in the loop as they develop. All of the web series above are ongoing and once you watch one you’ll be offered the rest.

Now, kick back on that bean bag and exult in the pop culture godliness you have attained. Let all the beanbag-less worship at your feet. You’ve earned it.

Femme Fatales Motion Comic Segment by M2 (In Show) NSFW

Listen to Bill McCormick on WBIG (FOX! Sports) every Friday around 9:10 AM.
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Stuff You Didn’t Know

January 29, 2016 by

According to Google, this is how every American housewife dressed in the 1950's. Let's make America great again. — According to Google, this is how every American housewife dressed in the 1950’s. Let’s make America great again.

There are some odd perks to doing this blog. While I’ve mentioned our fans in India and Japan a few times, mostly because that’s so random it deserves note, we also pick up other stragglers from around the globe who keep things interesting. They send me emails (yes, that’s my email at the bottom of this post), links, pictures, and all sorts of fun stuff. While I don’t share their personal info or pics, mostly because I think it vacillates between rude and pandering (HEY LOOK! I know a ____insert type of person here_____!), there have been a few things I tucked away for a rainy day. Although it’s technically dry outside I figured today was as good a day as any to clear some space. So, forget about any coherent theme, just sit back and enjoy.

Yeah, how many times have you heard that before?

Let’s start with a fun one. Shortly after Gal Gadot was cast as Wonder Woman I wrote an article about how this was a great idea. After all, Wonder Woman is of Mediterranean descent, does not have English as her first language, and looks hot. Or, is a lot like Gal Gadot. Unfortunately for her, she never got that memo. So, when Zack Snyder and his merry band of mythmakers flew her in from Israel, all she could think was that she was up for the role of …. Cat Woman.

“I mean, I could have guessed,” she admits now. “I thought it was going to be Selina (Kyle), you know?”

“I only knew what role it was when I flew in to test with Ben (Affleck),” she says. “I was very excited. Anytime I had general meetings in LA, I always said that my dream role was to do an empowered, independent woman who doesn’t rely on men.”

Gadot explained a little about her approach to the character, a warrior princess of the Amazons, over 5,000 years old, and – at the point of Batman v Superman – coming out of retirement.

My dream role was to do an empowered, independent woman who doesn’t rely on men.
“She’s seen it all,” says Gadot. “She has seen what humans can do, so it was very hard for her to come back and fight.”

We learn of the sheer commitment to the role Gadot has given. The 30 year-old actress underwent seven months of training before she ever set foot on set. “I was a dancer for 12 years,” she says, unable to believe how lucky she is to be able to parlay all that experience into a film role, “and now I get paid to work out and do crazy stuff with a lasso.”

In spite of the character’s mystical origins, Gadot insists that there is room for humour and a lighter touch. “I don’t want people to think she is perfect,” she insists. “She can be naughty.”

Considering that over the arc of Batman -v- Superman, and her own solo movie, she will be hooking up with Bruce Wayne and Steve Trevor, and based on some of the behind the scenes footage that has leaked, she will be as naughty as a PG-13 rating will allow. Also, if you watch the recently released trailer/promo, you’ll note she beheads a German soldier while riding a horse. This is accurate if you’re a fan of the comics. It will probably confuse the hell out of you if all you knew was Linda Carter.

In other super powered female news, Lana Condor has been cast as Jubilee in the upcoming X-Men: Apocalypse film. Yes, the Twitterverse has already vented its spleen about having an Asian cast as Jubilee. You can just move past that now. But, when it came out that Jubilee would no longer be the little girl with the cute fireworks and would, instead, have some bad-ass powers, purists left home to join the Bundy militia.

Jamie Lovett wisely sticks to talking about her powers and ignores the morons.

Jubilation’s powers will be tweaked a bit. It’s nothing as drastic as what happens to her in the comics (losing her mutant powers on M-Day, and then being turned into a vampire), but Condor tells JoBlo, “Her power in the comic books is fireworks. In this film, I can safely say that her power is more fire-plasmoid, electricity type.”

In another change from the comics, Condor says Jubilee will actually be a longtime student at the Xavier Institute, rather than the newcomer she’s usually shown as in other media.

“She is a student at the X-Mansion and she’s been here for about 10 years,” says Condor. “So she’s not new, unlike some of the other characters who have just arrived. She’s mostly with Scott, Jean, and [Nightcrawler]. They’re like her good core friend group. And, I think in this film she serves as a timepiece, cause you’ll never really forget that you’re, like, in the ’80’s. Because if you’ve seen my costume, like I’m straight out of the ’80’s, like, they literally took me out. And, she also serves as kind of comedic relief at times where things are-might be a little more tense and real S-H-I-T is going down.”

First, a note to newbies, Jubilation is her real name in the books and the cartoons and so on. Jubilee is her nickname. As to the rest, a slightly more mature, and powerful, Jubilee should be a welcome addition to the franchise.

You want more powerful women? Sheesh, you’re needy today. Okay, here you go.

Megalyn E.K., which sounds like a sexbot but isn’t, has been the voice for Warner’s Vixen: The Animated Series on their web channel. They are now moving her into the plot of Arrow where she will reprise her role as a live action character.

Russ Burlingame tells us all about it.

Vixen star Megalyn E.K. will appear on the episode of Arrow currently being filmed in Vancouver, and The CW has provided Comicbook.com with the first official look at the character in costume.

Megalyn has been cast in Arrow episode #415 for the role of “Mari McCabe (aka Vixen).” Megalyn had previously voiced this role in CW Seed’s animated digital series, but will now be bringing the character to live-action in Arrow.

Yesterday, series star Stephen Amell tweeted a photo of them together on set:

“I think if it does end up being live action in any way, it’s really cool that I have this warm-up into the character and I really can create my own version of Vixen,” Megalyn E.K. told ComicBook.com of Vixen, the animated, CW Seed-produced series which just got a second season.

Want a better look? Okay, here you go.

The cool thing about Vixen in the comic books, and animated series, is she switches between supermodel & superhero at will. It’s an interesting alternate identity. Since Arrow has done so well incorporating unusual characters into their show, HI CONSTANTINE!, I have to admit I’m stoked about this.

Okay, I lied, I did have a theme. I hope you’re not mad at me.

You see, I have nieces, and to see powerful women taking the screens, both big and small, to fan approval, is a wonderful thing for me. And for them. After all, we’ve had superheroes who look like me, yes, I can rock a cape, since Kal-El first graced Action Comics. But, and this seems to come as a shock to some, there is more to the world than white men. Or Anglo versions of other races.

Just go to my Facebook page and you’ll find people of every race and all major religions. They’re not there by accident. I happen to share a planet with them and feel it’s better to have a grip who’s rotating on this big round thing with me. It isn’t like they’re going anywhere.

So, kick back, enjoy, and catch up on cool women doing cool stuff. You’ll be a better person when you do.

Parvati Saves the World, Act3 from Rattapallax on Vimeo.

Listen to Bill McCormick on WBIG (FOX! Sports) every Friday around 9:10 AM.
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Your 2016 Mapped Out

November 25, 2015 by

One of the fun parts about doing The Big Wake Up Call every Friday, at 9:10 AM (CT/US), is interacting with the listeners. They call, they write, they send smoke signals. Whatever they can think of to get my attention. I even had one young lady figure out which bar I frequented and show up there. I’m sure I won’t need a restraining order. But there is one thing we do on the show that I kind of gloss over here. And that is stuff about superhero movies. It’s not that I don’t like writing about them, it’s just that there are so many click-bait sites dedicated to them that I hate to end up lumped in with them. Still, every now and then it’s worth the risk. Since this is a holiday week, and you’ve got some time to kill, I figure today’s as good a day as any to jump into the fray.

Before we get you into 2016 however we need to get you through 2015. First off, if you’re over 18 tears of age, and not easily offended, you need to start with Jessica Jones.

Everyone knows the taboos that exist in Hollywood. White women can’t date black men. No woman can be truly flawed. Booze is only consumed in moderation unless the character is going to die or become Tony Stark. Can’t do both. Any minority character is either a pimp or a saint. And on and on it goes. Jessica Jones ignores every single one of those to create a world where things aren’t always pretty but they sure as hell are interesting. Some of it borders on NC-17, so try not to watch it with your kids. But you still should watch it.

The next little film, a small indy adventure set in space, has garnered a modicum of attention. You may have heard of it. Star Wars: The Force Awakens has more fans drooling on their underwear than any film in recent history.

So what do we know about this bad boy? Not a lot. JJ Abrams has been tighter than a virgin in the back of a Chevy when it comes to sharing details. But there are a few things that have leaked. If you’ll pardon the visual. First off, the black storm trooper is named Finn Calrissian, making him the son of Lando Calrissian, a character who first appeared in The Empire Strikes Back. Han Solo, Princess Leah, and Luke Skywalker also are all coming back. In order, he’s a retired general now, she’s an active general now, and he may have turned to the dark side. One other thing we know is that this film will be doing everything in its power to distance itself from the toy infused train wrecks that George Lucas foisted off as prequels.

Now that we got you through 2015, let’s get you prepped for 2016.

In order, you can have the perfect Valentine’s Day date by taking your significant other to see Deadpool.

FYI, this trailer is NSFW.

Ryan Reynolds has been trying to get the Merc with the Mouth made into a film for a long time. He even went so far as to create a trailer to show movie studios how cool it could be. This movie will be rated R and will border on NC-17. And, yes ladies, Reynolds does have a nude scene. The film was made on a tight budget but everyone involved wanted it done. This looks like it will be a lot of fun. Well, fun, if you like sex, carnage, and cheap jokes. I do, so I’ll be there.

Next out will be Batman v Superman: Dawn of Justice. This film will hew closely to Frank Miller’s The Dark Knight Returns. If you don’t know that story it’s pretty straight forward. Batman is older, jaded, and has a bad heart. He feels that Superman is a threat to humanity and works up a way to take him on in battle.

This film will be dark. It will also set up the Justice League, starting with Batman, Superman, Wonder Woman, and Aquaman. The basic premise, that Batman and Superman realize there are bigger threats to the world than each other is the foundation here. In this case that threat will be a truly psychotic Lex Luthor who has gotten his hands on Kryptonian technology. I have a friend who has been working on this film and has seen a cut. She says, and she eschews hyperbole like the plague, that it’s “the greatest fucking thing I’ve ever seen.” Based on that alone I’m stoked to see this puppy.

Next up is Captain America: Civil War. Yes, we live in a world of colons. Just go with it. I’ll give you a taste before I continue.

This is an interesting film for Marvel to make. Until now their movies have tended towards bright colors and clearly defined enemies. Good guys win. Bad guys lose. Life goes on. This time around the lines are blurred. Loosely based on the comic book of the same name, it features some heroes deciding to out themselves to the U.S. government and allow them to control the use of their powers. Others feel that aligning with any government puts them at odds with the concept of saving the whole world. While Spiderman was the focus of the comic book Bucky, a/k/a The Winter Soldier, will be the focus here. I know about as much as you do about this one but word from the lot says this will be amazing.

When you finally come down from all those rushes it’ll be tie to see X-Men: Apocalypse. This film brings the X-Men’s ultimate big bad to life. Apocalypse is ancient, immortal, and has his own moral code. Not much to share here other than a post credits scene from X-Men: Days of Future Past which shows Apocalypse in ancient Egypt.

There was a trailer shown at Comicon earlier this year but that’s not been released and the leaked version is so low-rez I hate sharing it. It’s almost an insult to the work they’ve put into the film. There will be something coming out after the first of the year but, for now, this should give you an idea of what you’re getting into.

The next one on your agenda is Suicide Squad. This is one of those films that no one can believe actually got made. Ignoring the A-level cast for a moment, think about this pitch; “I want to do a movie that involves known comic book characters killing randomly and having sex. Oh, just FYI, we’re really leaning toward a graphic mind-rape scene. Sign here.”

The movie somewhat follows the 2014 animated classic, Batman: Assault on Arkham. Not so much in plot as in tone. Harley Quinn likes her violence and her sex, preferably mixed together. She’s also a former psychiatrist and one of the smartest comic book characters ever created. This movie ties in directly with Batman v Superman: Dawn of Justice. How they’ll use these characters in the future remains to be seen, but something tells me this won’t be the last we see of them.

Gambit and Dr. Strange will follow but they are barely into filming at this point so there’s not much to talk about.

Even so, this should be enough for you to start budgeting for 2016. Or, at the very least, to bust out a towel, make yourself a cape, and save the world.

tsurufoto presents… Sheila Savage Saves The Day!!! (NSFW) from tsurufoto. on Vimeo.

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Stuff You Want to See

October 1, 2015 by

Turnabout is fair play. Image courtesy of Symmetry is Art.

There are a ton of superhero movies headed your way. They’re also headed my way. Which makes me all tingly. A well made superhero flick is a great way to escape for a couple of hours. And they provide inspiration to our youth. Superman is the Christ-like figure we should all aspire to. Except when he’s not. Yeah, that link will ruin your childhood. Batman doesn’t kill. Except when he does, as he did in his very first story. But, in many ways, it’s those flaws and mishaps that keep the characters interesting. They point out, often brutally, that anyone can fail. That doesn’t make the ideals any less laudable. Since the 90’s Hollyweird has finally started figuring that out. Not with the Fantastic Four, sadly, but in general they’ve done a pretty good job. JUST FYI, FF fans, it seems that Fox is going to go ahead with Fantastic Four II and team them up with the X-Men. That means no neon & concrete clad Dr. Doom (YEAH!) and an actual story for folks to enjoy. I’m not opposed to this in the slightest. The cast in the reboot was solid, some of the premises laid out in that train wreck were actually interesting (Reed Richards new shape changing abilities come to mind) and hitting the ground running and filling in back story as needed never hurt anyone. Plus, we would get a couple of X-Men to hold our attention. Personally I’m hoping for Storm, just because I think she’s hot, but She-Hulk could work her way in here too. In either case that would mean that Sue Storm would have to be more than eye candy for the plot to work and that would be a very good thing.

I mean, c’mon, she’s supposed to be a genius with superpowers who can level city blocks. Why is she always portrayed as a Shrinking Violet?

Okay, so let’s look at what’s coming down the proverbial pike.

Batman -v- Superman: Dawn of Justice is a film designed to serve two, complementary, roles. First, and foremost, it will introduce the world to the Justice League and, second, it serves as Superman II since its whole plot revolves around what happened in Superman. Much to no one’s surprise the cut submitted to the MPAA received a PG-13 rating. Given all the hyper-violence in the first one it’s easy to see why. What I didn’t expect was this quote from the MPAA; “rated PG-13 for intense sequences of violence and action, some sensuality and language.” “Sensuality and language,” according to the MPAA, involves profanity, extended kisses, heavy petting and simulated, or clearly implied, sex. If that caveat applies to the relationship between Batman and Superman this could be a much different movie than fans are anticipating. Somehow I doubt it, but you never know.

The next super movie with a super colon in its title is X-Men: Apocalypse. The main complaint from fan boys thus far is that Oscar Isaac is too short to play the role. I’m not sure how to respond to that other than to note that, thus far, every fan boy complaint about every superhero movie, excluding Fantastic Four, has been wrong. Very little is known about this film other than the fact that Archangel, Storm, Psylocke and Magneto will be Apocalypse’s legendary Four Horsemen. That and Apocalypse claims to also be known as Yaweh. Clearly they’re not avoiding the biblical implications that are inherent in the comic.

Dr. Strange is also headed your way. According to the fan boys there will be no origin story attached. According to the people who made it there will.

“For some reason people sometimes talked about how we’re not doing an origin story, we’re bored of origin stories. I think people are bored of origin stories they’ve seen before or origin stories that are overly familiar,” (Marvel President Kevin) Feige told IGN at Tuesday’s press event. “Doctor Strange has one of the best, most classic, most unique origin stories of any hero we have, so why wouldn’t we do that? That was sort of always the plan. How you tell that origin, perhaps there are ways to twist it or play with that, but for the most part, it’s a gift when the comics have something with such clarity of story and of character. That doesn’t always happen in the comics, and when it does, you use it.”

In other words they can slip the origin in while the story progresses. Given how bizarre his origins are I would imagine viewers would like to be in on it.

There’s nothing new to report on Deadpool or Suicide Squad that hasn’t already been reported but, if something comes up, I’ll let you know.

By the way, if you’re a fan of rubber suited monsters and destroying Tokyo, you will not be disappointed. My fave, Ultraman, is getting the pseudo-sequel treatment. The whole plot is, essentially, evil comes back, Ultraman comes back, Tokyo gets leveled. I can’t wait.

Part Two of the Daredevil universe on Netflix, a/k/a Jessica Jones, is set to debut on November 20, 2015. The trailers show her as conflicted, drunk, super powerful, and mercenary to the extreme. This will also be the series used to tell the origin of Luke Cage. Both characters will be in the same universe as Daredevil so expect some borderline R-rated antics. I’m not sure who bought who lunch somewhere but the idea that Netflix committed to four complete series sight unseen (Daredevil reference implied) is amazing.

Jessica Jones is the second of five Marvel series set to debut on Netflix, beginning with Daredevil and ending with an Avengers-style crossover miniseries called The Defenders. As such, it is very possible that Charlie Cox might briefly show up as Matt Murdock to reinforce that connection. What’s more, it helps set up the next series as well—Mike Coulter stars in Jessica Jones as Luke Cage, a man with unbreakable skin and the eponymous star of the next Netflix/Marvel series, slated to debut next year. The fourth is the martial arts-themed Iron Fist. While they’ll all share the same mature tone, what makes all of them interesting individually is the way they all fall into genres independent of “superhero”: the legal drama of Daredevil, the hard-boiled detective story of Jessica Jones, the crime drama of Luke Cage, and the kung fu action of Iron Fist. It’s gonna get wild.

Closer to now, on October 6, 2015, the wildly successful show, Flash, returns to the CW. As noted before, the character’s costume on TV was changed to match the one in the comic book and visa versa. Ooops. This season is going to make fan boys happy, even if they don’t want to be. They will be embracing the multi-dimensional universe implied by Flash’s superpowers and explored in the comic books. That means fans will get to know Barry Allen, our Flash, better and meet Jay Garrick, the Golden Age Flash and Wally West, who is African-American in the comic book reboot and will be in the TV show as well.

Okay, but those are all popular things that you can find anywhere on the interweb. “What about,” you whine while snorting strawberry milk out your nose, “us folks who need to have some Nazis or Zombies or flying sharks?”

Have I ever let you down?

Not only am I going to make you happy, I have another movie with a colon in the title. How fucking cool is that?

Iron Sky: The Coming Race tells the age old story of lizard people pretending to be human so that dinosaur riding Nazis, who live in the center of the Earth, can take over the world. If that doesn’t bring a tear to your eye I don’t know what will. I should note that it looks pretty damn good and I can’t wait to see it. Bonus? It has a soundtrack by, the world’s happiest faux Nazis and North Korea’s favorite band, Laibach.

It really doesn’t get much better than that.

“Okay,” you continue whining, “what about the zombies and flying sharks you promised?”

Not to worry, Sky Sharks is coming to a theater somewhere in the universe. I give you, without comment, the plot.

Deep in the ice of the Antarctic, a team of geologists uncover an old Nazi laboratory, still intact, where dark experiments had occurred. Unwittingly the geologists unleash upon the world a top-secret experiment the Germans had been working on – modified sharks that are able to fly, whose riders are genetically mutated, undead super-humans. The only thing that can stop them, and possibly save the world, is a military task force called “Dead Flesh Four“ – assembled from reanimated U.S. soldiers who fell in Vietnam.

You wanna know the sad part? That trailer looks fucking AWESOME!!!!!!

Another trailer that caught my attention is one for a fan made film that’s 100% illegal. Called Teen Titans: War, yes – another colon, it was developed by Ismahawk Productions. They’re a company that’s been developing a web series based on the Nightwing character and doing a pretty damn good job of it. If you click on that link it will take you to their first episode. There are several more. I can promise you that, if you’re a fan, you’re really going to like this.

Just like a wedding this blog has brought you something old, something new, something borrowed and something blue. Have fun clicking the links.

If you want to see how superheroes can get done, horribly, wrong, just watch the video below. It’s mildly NSFW but still’s a lot of fun.

Mondo Superhero Part 2: Superman Is A Pervert from Everything Is Terrible! on Vimeo.

Listen to Bill McCormick on WBIG (FOX! Sports) every Friday around 9:10 AM.
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Super Cool Groovy Stuff

September 4, 2015 by

Sadly, there are no plans for a Lady Death movie.

Okay, let’s take a break from all the “end of the world” stuff to catch back up with all of our fantasies. No, not those, you perv. I’m talking about the cinematic ones. And, no, Foreskin Gump doesn’t count as real cinema. Geez, what is in your browsing history? No, I’m talking about the plethora of super hero movies that will soon festoon our screens. While Stephen Spielberg recently predicted that this genre will go the way of the western, and I tend to agree, I would like to note that westerns had a three decade run of dominance. That’s not a bad little run. If you’d like to see a list of all the scheduled films coming your way just click here and have fun. There’s a ton of them.

A couple, Ant-Man & Fantastic Four, are already out. So let’s take a quick look at them. Ant-Man is a fun introduction to the character whom they can now use in multiple, Avengers related, movies. His fight with the Falcon is a thing of comic book joy as each has very different skills and each uses them to their advantage. The bad guy is really bad, the good guys are just bad enough to be interesting and there’s a token love interest that won’t make you squeamish. I’d give it two and a half out of four stars and admit I enjoyed it. As to Fantastic Four, let’s just say it’s a clinic on how to fuck up an easy movie. Things appear, become important, and then are never seen again. Reed Richards, the stretchy Mr. Fantastic, turns out to have the cool ability to change his facial features. He does this once and no more and it’s never explained how he learned to do it anyway. Dr. Doom attacks earth and no one knows why. For the most part he seemed to like everyone. The biggest sign you’re in trouble? Halfway through the film a lobby card pops up, just like in the old silent movies, that says One Year Later. This is a mess of a movie. I’d give it negative stars if I could.

Ah hell, I will; -3.5.

In fact, click here and just go watch the animated porn version of Fantastic Four. It’s got better plot and character development than this train wreck. Also better effects, if you know what I mean.

Moving on. In TV-Land the company that brought you Arrow and The Flash is now bringing you Supergirl and The Legends of Tomorrow. I’ve written about both extensively so I won’t rehash things here. Both look promising and the casts of both have been having fun with fans. Always a good sign.

In other TV news, the wonderful world of Daredevil will be adding the Punisher this season and a/k/a Jessica Jones will be introducing Luke Cage (Hero for Hire). All of these Netflix releases will be leading up to a team that features all of the principals. But not until each of them has, at least, two seasons under their belts as solo acts. People who’ve seen footage all say that if you liked Daredevil Season One you’re going to love what they’re up to now.

In other news the nice people making Deadpool (NSFW) released an R-rated trailer for the upcoming R-rated film that will explore light hearted topics such as terminal cancer, prostitution and contract killing. You know, just like the stories mom told you as a kid. If you know what Deadpool is all about then you’re pretty stoked right now. If not, click the link, make sure no one is around, and learn. Unless you’re easily offended. Then don’t do that. Don’t even think about it. It’s got Stan Lee as an M.C. in a strip club for Christ’s sake. It will ruin your childhood.

Speaking of ruining chilhoods, The Hobbit: The Battle of the Five Armies is coming to DVD, etc., next month and has been rated R. Why? I do not know. Is there some bizarre sex scene that Peter Jackson insists on …. ahem … inserting? Was the hyper-realistic violence not hyper-realistic enough? All of the above? Oh well, if you really need to know they are also releasing the extended versions of all three films in 500 theaters nationwide. The total running time, should you wish to see all the Hobbit films back to back to back, is just under ten hours. That’s a lot of time to dedicate to a seventy page book.

In other R rated news that won’t ruin your childhood, Suicide Squad has finally wrapped up shooting. This may get cut down to a PG-13 film since it has the kid friendly Will Smith in it. Even if it does there’s a lot of room in a PG-13 film to give folks nightmares. In the cartoon version of Suicide Squad’s origin, Batman: Assault on Arkham, there’s sex and extreme violence. Harley’s a horn-dog and Deadshot is a willing, if reluctant, partner. Yes, that link will take you to the full movie. Obviously this film won’t go that far. But it will be interesting to see how far they do go.

Speaking of nightmares, imagine these two having a kid.

I’m sorry. I couldn’t help myself.

Since both movies were shooting at the same time in Toronto the casts from Deadpool and Suicide Squad spent as much time as they could interacting with each other and with their fans. Given the insanely tight security surrounding most films these days this was kind of refreshing. Of course Deadpool and Suicide Squad owe their existence to fans so this makes sense.

One film that is not being all that fan friendly, Batman -vs- Superman: Dawn of Justice (what is with all the colons lately?), accidentally released their entire plot synopsis online. Yes, you can click the link to read it if you want. If you’re one of the three people on the planet who hasn’t seen the trailer just click here to catch up. With a plot involving Batman, Superman, Lex Luthor, Doomsday, Wonder Woman, Aquaman, and a brief appearance by The Flash, this movie looks, superficially, to be a hot mess. But, from all accounts, it appears to be shaping up fine. It’s why Warner signed Ben Afflek to do three more Batman films, plus another Justice League and rushed him to Toronto to be in Suicide Squad. Originally he was just mentioned in the script.

One insider told me that the rough cut, minus a ton of effects, music, etc., recently shown to Warner Execs was “fucking astonishing.” That’s a much better review than I was able to get from anyone on Fantastic Four. The best I got there was “well, they paid for the sequel.”

Besides all the cool Netflix shows, Marvel is also gearing up for Captain America: Civil War. More colons. Anyway, as it stands right now, this will be the film they use to introduce Spiderman back into the Marvel cinematic universe. It will also not feature the Hulk. I’m not sure what they’re planning for that character but a cameo in a battle movie isn’t it. Nor is the Planet Hulk story line. Which makes me happy since I think that story was horribly overrated. But you can always click the link to check it out for yourself.

Shooting started a while back on X-Men Apocalypse but Marvel hasn’t released anything yet. They did show a brief trailer at Comicon but it was a little rough so we’ll just wait for something better. Don’t get me wrong, it looked cool, it was just rough.

The nice thing about catching up this way is that I was finally able to get all the links to everything all in one blog. Truly your one stop shopping destination.

And, just to ruin your good mood, keep in mind that Fox has every intention of releasing Fantastic Four II. Whether you want them to or not.

Superhero Boudoir – Promo for Home By Midnight / Boggio Studios from FX Media on Vimeo.

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Search Results for: apocalypse

Announcing the first release of Bitcoin, a new electronic cash system that uses a peer-to-peer network to prevent double-spending. It’s completely decentralized with no server or central authority. – Satoshi Nakamoto, 09 January 2009, announcing Bitcoin on SourceForge.

What are cryptocurrencies really?

How miners create coins and confirm transactions

Black Panther

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Deadpool 2

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Venom

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X-Men: Dark Phoenix

Spider-Man: Into the Spider-Verse

Hellboy

Thor: Ragnarok

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New Mutants

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X-Men: Dark Phoenix

Untitled Animated Spider-Man (Miles Morales)

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Shazam!

Spider-Man: Homecoming 2

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Green Lantern Corps

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Gotham City Sirens

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Untitled Animated Spider-Man
(Miles Morales)