Tuesday, June 25, 2013

06.25.2013 - MARINE BOY: THE COMPLETE FIRST SEASON - One of the Original Anime Series on American TV Now Available via Warner Archive Collection





Alongside the heralded Speed Racer and Kimba: The White Lion, MARINE BOY was one of the original handful of imported television series that captured youngsters’ imaginations and put Japanese anime in the stateside consciousness.

Now fans of the 1960s series, and an entire new generation of anime appreciators, can experience the undersea hero’s aquatic adventures as Warner Archive Collection distributes MARINE BOY: THE COMPLETE FIRST SEASON.

Produced in Japan but intended for first-run syndication in the United States during 1966-67, Marine Boy was one of the first color cartoons to come from Japan. A teenager with some amazing inventions at his disposal, Marine Boy battles evil on and under the seas on behalf of the Ocean Patrol, aided by his father, Dr. Mariner, and the brilliant Professor Fumble. Joining Marine Boy in his missions are his white dolphin, Splasher, young mermaid friend Neptina, and fellow Ocean Patrol agents Bullton and Piper.

The series even shared some pedigree with Speed Racer, most notably featuring several members of the rival series’ voice cast – like Corinne Orr, the voice of Marine Boy, Neptina and Clicli (as well as Trixie on Speed Racer); Peter Fernandez as Piper and Dr. Mariner (and the original voice of Speed Racer) and Jack Grimes as Professor Fumble and Splasher (Chim-Chim). Jack Curtis provided the voice of the narrator for both series.

If sea-faring adventure is your brand of fun, then Warner Archive Collection has a vault filled with entertainment made for you. From live-action thrillers like Man From Atlantis, City Beyond the Sea and Captain Nemo and the Underwater City to the animated dramas SeaLab 2020 and The Pirates of Dark Water to the silliness of Jabberjaw and Snorks, there’s something for every aquatic fan … including special discounts during the current “Harpoon Sale.” Dive into http://shop.warnerarchive.com/home.do today.



Friday, June 21, 2013

06.21.2013 -  THE MANY LOVES OF DOBIE GILLIS: THE COMPLETE SERIES COMING FROM SHOUT! FACTORY JULY 2




BRING HOME ONE OF THE BEST-LOVED SITCOMS FROM THE GOLDEN AGE OF TELEVISION!

THE MANY LOVES OF DOBIE GILLIS: THE COMPLETE SERIES
Starring Dwayne Hickman, Bob Denver, Frank Faylen, Florida Friebus, Tuesday Weld, Warren Beatty, and Sheila James

OWN THIS COLLECTIBLE 21-DVD BOX SET FEATURING ALL 147 EPISODES, ORIGINAL RARE PILOT FOOTAGE AND SPECIAL BONUS CONTENT

DEBUTS FOR THE FIRST TIME ON HOME ENTERTAINMENT SHELVES EVERYWHERE JULY 2, 2013 FROM SHOUT! FACTORY



The Many Loves of Dobie Gillis ignited one of the many loves of American television: stories about teenagers.  Dobie Gillis was a typically indecisive young man who continually set out on hopeless quests for popularity, money, and the attention of beautiful girls, all while trying to make his parents happy. Created and written by humorist Max Shulman and adapted from Shulman’s celebrated collection of short stories, The Many Loves of Dobie Gillis premiered on CBS in 1959 and was a counter-culture hit throughout all four years of its network run. Starring Dwayne Hickman, Bob Denver, Frank Faylen, Florida Friebus, Tuesday Weld, Warren Beatty and Sheila James, this timeless show triggered a sea change in sitcoms and dramas, which would focus on the hopes, dreams and angst of teenagers for decades to come.

On July 2, 2013, Shout! Factory, in collaboration with The Max Shulman Trust, will bring the long-awaited THE MANY LOVES OF DOBIE GILLIS: THE COMPLETE SERIES in a collectible 21-DVD box set to North American home entertainment shelves for the first time. This highly anticipated complete series DVD box set features all 147 episodes from 1959-1963, plus special bonus features including original rare pilot footage, bonus episodes from Love That Bob! (The Bob Cummings Show) and The Stu Erwin Show and more! Whether reliving the rosy memory from the 1950s or discovering this classic sitcom for the first time, loyal fans, collectors and viewers will be enamored by Dobie Gillis all over again as THE MANY LOVES OF DOBIE GILLIS: THE COMPLETE SERIES is priced to own at $139.99 SRP.
Amazon pre-order link: http://www.amazon.com/The-Many-Loves-Dobie-Gillis/dp/B00C7A8WWO/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1371757400&sr=8-1&keywords=dobie+gillis+complete+series

Created by Max Shulman, THE MANY LOVES OF DOBIE GILLIS starred Dwayne Hickman as Dobie, a middle-class 17-year-old whose main goal in life was to find the girl of his dreams, Bob Denver (Gilligan’s Island) co-stars as Dobie’s beatnik friend Maynard G. Krebs, whose passion was to avoid work at any cost popularized the idea of the proto-hippie, and Frank Faylen and Florida Friebus, as Dobie’s parents, who were never too far away to worry about Dobie’s future.

Throughout its 147 episodes, the series ran the gamut from the hilarious (Dobie and Maynard sharing a tuxedo in order to attend a society party together), to the ridiculous (Maynard drinking a student chemist’s formula and turning into a monster) to the touching (Dobie convincing a poor but brilliant student to stay in school).

Guest stars include Rose Marie, Bill Bixby, Yvonne Craig, Richard Deacon, Norman Fell, Ronny Howard, Sherry Jackson, Sally Kellerman, Michael J. Pollard, Michele Lee, Steve Franken, Jo Anne Worley, among other notables.

THE MANY LOVES OF DOBIE GILLIS: THE COMPLETE SERIES 21-DVD BOX SET
BONUS CONTENT:
• Original rare pilot footage
• Bonus Episodes from “Love That Bob!” and “The Stu Erwin Show" And More!

About Shout! Factory
Shout! Factory, LLC is a diversified multi-platform media company devoted to producing, uncovering, preserving and revitalizing the very best of pop culture. Founders Richard Foos, Bob Emmer and Garson Foos have spent their entire careers sharing their music, television and film favorites with discerning consumers the world over. Shout! Factory’s DVD and Blu-Ray™ offerings serve up feature films, classic and contemporary TV series, animation, live music and comedy specials in lavish packages crammed with extras.  Shout’s audio division boasts GRAMMY®-nominated box sets, Broadway cast albums, new releases from storied artists, lovingly assembled album reissues and indispensable “best of” compilations.  In addition, Shout! Factory maintains a vast digital distribution network which delivers video and audio content to all the leading digital service providers in North America.  Shout! Factory also owns and operates Timeless Media Group, Biograph Records, Majordomo Records, HighTone Records and Video Time Machine. These riches are the result of a creative acquisition mandate that has established the company as a hotbed of cultural preservation and commercial reinvention.  Shout! Factory is based in Santa Monica, California. For more on Shout! Factory, visit shoutfactory.com

Monday, June 17, 2013

06.17.2013 - ARCHIE COMICS SEPTEMBER 2013 SOLICITATIONS


AFTERLIFE WITH ARCHIE #1
NEW ONGOING SERIES! ìEscape From RiverdaleîóThis is how the end of the world begins Harvey Award-winning writer Roberto Aguirre-Sacasa (Carrie, Archie meets Glee) and Eisner-winning artist Francesco Francavilla (Batman, Black Beetle) take Archie and the gang where theyíve never been beforeóto the grave and back! A horrific accident sets off a series of grim events and Sabrina the Teenage Witch must try to repair the unspeakable evil her spell has unleashed. Gasp in horror as Riverdale faces an impending zombie Arch-pocalypse in this brand-new, spine-tingling ongoing seriesóbut be warned, kiddies, this oneís not for the faint of heart! For TEEN+ readers.
Script: Roberto Aguirre-Sacasa
Art: Francesco Francavilla, Jack Morelli
Cover: Francesco Francavilla
Variants by: Francesco Francavilla, Andrew Pepoy, Tim Seeley
Shipping Date: 9/25
On Sale at Comic Specialty Shops: 10/9
32-page, full color comic
$2.99 US.

ARCHIE #648
Archie in ìARCHIE, Clod of Thunder!îó Get ready for entertainment in this hilarious superhero parody by comics legend Tom DeFalco! ìMaster of the Stormî Archie resides in Allgood, an honorable city over the Rainbow Bridge, where the food is plentiful, the girls are heavenly, and everything is absolutelyÖ boring! Turns out that being an immortal warrior isnít as fun as people might think. When Archie finds himself in trouble, thanks to a prank of his brother Reggie the Wicked, his father banishes Archie to Planet Earthóto the town of Riverdale, USA to be exact! Will Archie be able to dutifully serve out his punishment? Or will he find life on Earth to be just the excitement he was looking for? Features an extra-special variant cover by Mighty Thor mastermind Walter Simonson!
Script: Tom DeFalco
Art: Fernando Ruiz, Rich Koslowski, John Workman
Cover: Fernando Ruiz, Bob Smith
Variant Cover: Walter Simonson
Shipping Date: 9/18
On Sale at Comic Specialty Shops: 10/2
32-page, full color comic
$2.99 US.

ARCHIE DOUBLE DIGEST #244
Meet Archieís new dog Vegas! Vegas is full of personality, but how will he get along with the other pals ëní galsí pets of Riverdale? When Veronica hosts a pet soiree with all the most popular pets (including her many poodles!), heíll make some new friendsóand learn some helpful hints along the way! Get ready for some tail-wagging fun in ìDonít Fret My Pets!î the lead story in this laugh-packed digest!
Script: Bill Golliher
Art: Bill Galvan, Jim Amash
Cover: Fernando Ruiz, Bob Smith
Shipping Date: 9/18
On Sale at Comic Specialty Shops: 10/2
160-page, full color comic
$3.99 US.

ARCHIE & FRIENDS DOUBLE DIGEST #32
Archie may be the king of high schoolóbut what happens when high schoolís over? When Reggie introduces him to the Associated College Simulation Program, Archie gets the chance to see what college life will be likeóvirtually, that is! Archie gets a taste of exams, parties and girls. Will he be able to adjust to college life? Or will this simulated look into his future freak him out even more? Find out in ìCollege Kidder,î the four-part frenzy that kicks off this fun-filled double digest!
Script: Mike Pellowski
Art: Rex Lindsey, Rich Koslowski, Bill Yoshida, Barry Grossman
Cover: Dan Parent, Rich Koslowski
Shipping Date: 9/25
On Sale at Comic Specialty Shops: 10/9
160-page, full color comic
$3.99 US.

ARCHIEíS EVEN FUNNIER KIDSí JOKE BOOK (TPB)
Get ready for even more laughs and even funnier jokes in this massive Archie kidsí joke book! The perfect companion piece to the laugh-out-loud Archieís Giant Kidsí Joke Book, Archieís Even Funnier Kidsí Joke Book is filled to the brim with nearly 200 pages of hilarious comic strips, ìguess the gagî games and silly riddles! This companion series to the record-shattering Best of Archie series is the ultimate collectorsí item for not only the child in your lifeóbut for your inner child, too!
Script: Various
Art: Various
Cover: Fernando Ruiz
978-1-936975-67-9
$6.99/$7.99CAN
5 1/4 x 7 1/2î
Trade Paperback
192pp, Full Color
Direct Market On-sale: 10/2

ARCHIE: THE MARRIED LIFE BOOK 4 (TPB)
The fourth volume of Archieís highly acclaimed graphic novel series features celebrated writer Paul Kupperbergís tight-knit ongoing romantic storyline of Archie as a young newlywed in two very different universesóone where he marries wealthy socialite Veronica Lodge and the other where he marries girl-next-door Betty Cooper.
In this volume, life is turned upside-down for our red-headed hero and both of his alternate universe brides. Kevinís wedded bliss is cut short when tragedy strikes the hometown hero and his husband, launching him into a career he never thought heíd enter! And the ball gets rolling on Betty and Reggieís reality TV dealóbut can Betty and Reggie run their shops and stay in a healthy relationship with cameras on them 24/7? Meanwhile an old ìfriendî returns with some shocking news! Featuring a surprise guest appearance by Josie and the Pussycats! Archie: The Married Life Book 4 collects issues 19-24 of the popular Life With Archie magazine.
Script: Paul Kupperberg
Art: Fernando Ruiz, Pat Kennedy, Tim Kennedy, Bob Smith, Jim Amash, and Glenn Whitmore
Cover: Fernando Ruiz
978-1-936975-69-3
$19.99/$23.99CAN
6 5/8 x 10 3/16î
Trade Paperback
272pp, Full Color
Direct Market On-sale: 10/16

BETTY AND VERONICA DOUBLE DIGEST #216
Things are about to get very spooooky for The Archies when they plan to shoot a music video in an abandoned movie studio. Theyíre welcomed by a gruesome group of hired performers that are slated to act as background monstersóbut could these creepy characters not be quite what they appear? Find out in ìChiller,î the thrilling first story in this double digest!
Script: George Gladir
Art: Dan DeCarlo Jr., Jimmy DeCarlo, Bill Yoshida, Barry Grossman
Cover: Jeff Shultz
Shipping Date: 9/11
On Sale at Comic Specialty Shops: 9/25
160-page, full color comic
$3.99 US.

BETTY AND VERONICAíS PRINCESS STORYBOOK (TPB)
The fairytale fun continues in Betty and Veronicaís Princess Storybook, the follow-up to the successful Betty & Veronica: Storybook graphic novel! The two BFFs take on some of the most beloved fairytales including Rapunzel, Beauty and the Beast, Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs, The Little Mermaid, and Rumpelstiltskin, with a little help from their friends! Itís classic storybook tales told through the extra special Archie Comics lens!
Script: Dan Parent
Art: Dan Parent, Jeff Shultz, Bob Smith, Alitha Martinez, Renae DeLiz, Jill Thompson, Fiona Staples, Stephanie Buscema and Jack Morelli
Cover: Dan Parent
978-1-936975-71-6
$9.99/$10.99CAN
6 x 9î
Trade Paperback
128pp, Full Color
Direct Market On-sale: 10/9

KEVIN KELLER #11
Kevin in ìCharity, Schmarity!îóKevin and Veronica fighting?! What could possibly set mild-mannered Kevin Keller off enough to engage in a full-on battle with his former BFF? A squabble over a charity event turns into an all-out waróbut when they take their feud public, Kevin may learn some things about himself as well as some of his close friends that he couldnít quite read before. Life with Archie writer Paul Kupperberg lends his talents to a Kevin Keller story not to be missed!
Script: Paul Kupperberg
Art: Dan Parent, Rich Koslowski, Jack Morelli
Cover: Dan Parent
Wraparound Variant Cover: Bill Galvan, Rich Koswloski, Glenn Whitmore
Shipping Date: 9/25
On Sale at Comic Specialty Shops: 10/9
32-page, full color comic
$2.99 US.

LIFE WITH ARCHIE #32
ìArchie Marries Veronicaî ñ Veronicaís trying to stay positive while Archie does the best he can to provide for them in their time of need. Meanwhile, Mr. Lodge is engaged in some secret meetings to keep tabs on business rival Fred Mirth. Kevin Keller is coming to the realization that a job in the Senate is more than he bargained for, especially when the odds are stacked against him. When he uncovers some shocking information about a recent tragedy, does he have what it takes to bring it to light and be the change that everyone needs?
ìArchie Marries Bettyî ñ Between Archieís teaching schedule, Ambrose running the New York City Chow House location, and Jughead and Midgeís baby on the way, the local Chow House is in desperate need of some help! Meanwhile, Moose is prepping to take a big leap and Cheryl Blossom and Kevin Keller are joining forces in Washington D.C. And speaking of being busyóit looks as though Bettyís busy schedule is starting to affect more people than just Archie! Can she mend her relationships before itís too late? Life With Archie has become the hottest spot for amazing variants with some of the best artists around, and this oneís no exception! Features a New Yorker-inspired variant cover by Emmy Award Winning writer/artist Dean Haspiel (Billy Dogma, HBOís Bored to Death).
Script: Paul Kupperberg
Art: Fernando Ruiz, Pat and Tim Kennedy, Bob Smith, Jim Amash, Jack Morelli, and Glenn Whitmore
Cover: Fernando Ruiz and Tito Pena
Variant Cover: Dean Haspiel
Shipping Date: 9/11
On Sale at Comic Specialty Shops: 9/25
48-page, full color comic
$3.99 US

MEGA MAN #30
It's the ultimate rumble-in-the-jungle for the fate of the planet in "BLACKOUT: The Curse of Ra Moon" Part Two! Mega Man leads Cut Man, Guts Man and Bomb Man through the Amazon in a desperate attempt to save the world! But standing in their way are TWO sets of Dr. Wilyís Robot Masters! Things escalate even further when Break Man appears, but is he there to fight Mega Manóor to help? Featuring new cover art from PATRICK "SPAZ" SPAZIANTE and a special Capcom video game-inspired variant cover!
SCRIPT: Ian Flynn.
ART: Mike Cavallaro, Gary Martin, John Workman, and Matt Herms
Cover: Patrick Spaziante
Variant cover art provided by Capcom
Shipping Date: 9/25
On Sale at Comic Specialty Shops: 10/9
32-page, full color comic
$2.99 US.

SONIC SAGA SERIES 4: HOUSE OF CARDS (TPB)
Sonicís epic adventures arenít just storiesótheyíre SAGAS! Blast into the action at Sonic speed with the continuation of the all-new Sonic Saga graphic novel series! This volume collects a crucial point in the history of Sonicís hometown of New Mobotropolis. After narrowly avoiding annihilation at the hands of Dr. Eggman, the citizens face a bright new futureóone full of change. But change isnít exactly so bright for everyone. Tensions boil over when Sonic does battle withÖTAILS?! Brother fights brother, political tensions start to brew, and friends and family are turned against each other. What evils go unchecked during all this infighting? SONIC SAGA VOL. 4 collects selected stories from Sonic the Hedgehog #129, 177-180.
Script & Art: Ian Flynn
Cover: Tracy Yardley!, Jim Amash and Jason Jensen
978-1-936975-64-8
$11.99/$13.99CAN
6 5/8 x 10 3/16î
Trade Paperback
112 pp
Direct Market On-sale: 9/25


SONIC THE HEDGEHOG #253
The biggest, most shocking event in Sonic comic history is underway, and YOU can grab a front-row seat in ìCountdown to Chaos" part one! Sonic and Tails are on a journey to the Mystic Ruins jungle in search of their missing pals. What they encounter is sure to surprise you! Meanwhile, Dr. Eggman begins the long trek back to his deadly Death Egg II battle fortress. Will our heroes find him and stop him before he launches again? And just who, or what, is the "Sky Patrol" and what does it have to do with the missing Freedom Fighters? Don't miss a moment of the chaos, featuring the first in a series of ALL-NEW inter-connecting covers by Sonic art superstar Ben Bates, and bone-chilling variant cover by T.REX!
SCRIPT: Ian Flynn
ART: Tracy Yardley, Lamar Wells, Terry Austin, John Workman, and Matt Herms.
Cover: Ben Bates
Variant Cover: T.REX
Shipping Date: 9/18
On Sale at Comic Specialty Shops: 10/2
32-page, full color comic
$2.99 US.

SONIC UNIVERSE #56
Ahoy, ye mateys! Tharr be trouble on the high seas! Blazeóa pirate prisoner! Amy, Cream and Marineólost! Beanóan oddball, be we knew that already! Itís a race against time as Cpt. Metal begins his plan for the Sol Emeralds and his new, completed Egg oí War! And now that ye mention it ó there's something REALLY familiar about that battle station, but I just can't put me hook on it! Thereís mystery and mutiny a'foot in "Pirate Plunder Panicî Part Two! Featuring new cover art from Tracy Y'ARRRR-dley, and a special Sega variant cover!
SCRIPT: Tracy Yardley!
ART: Tracy Yardley, Jim Amash, Jack Morelli, and Thomas Mason
Cover: Tracy Yardley, Jim Amash, Jack Morelli, and Steve Downer
Variant Cover art provided by SEGA
Shipping Date: 9/4
On Sale at Comic Specialty Shops: 9/18
32-page, full color comic
$2.99 US.

WORLD OF ARCHIE DOUBLE DIGEST #32
Meet your new neighbor, Archie! When a vampire vixen moves into a ìhauntedî property near Archieís house, strange things start happening. Itís weird enough that this mystery woman moved in late at night, but when Archie hears ominous noises coming from her house, heís downright frightened! Is Archie just over-reacting, or is there something sinister going on in Riverdale? Find out in the fearsome first story ìMidnight Madness!î
Script: Rich Margopoulos
Art: Rex Lindsey, Bill Yoshida, Barry Grossman
Cover: Dan Parent, Rich Koslowski
Shipping Date: 9/4
On Sale at Comic Specialty Shops: 9/18
160-page, full color comic
$3.99 US.

Tuesday, May 21, 2013

05.21.2013 - New voices for iconic characters in "LEGO BATMAN: THE MOVIE - DC SUPERHEROES UNITE"




FIRST-TIME VOICES OF BATMAN, SUPERMAN & JOKER SET NEW ACTION-PACKED,
HILARIOUS TONE FOR LEGO BATMAN: THE MOVIE – DC SUPERHEROES UNI
TE

Troy Baker, Travis Willingham, Christopher Corey Smith & Charlie Schlatter take on iconic roles for new animated film coming to Blu-ray on May 21

The first day on a job is never easy. It only gets that much more difficult when you’re following a legend.

Such was the case for Troy Baker, Travis Willingham and Christopher Corey Smith – three talented young voice actors who stepped into the recording booth – and some very large shoes – for LEGO Batman: The Movie – DC Superheroes Unite.

The trio was tasked with creating the voices of Batman, Superman and the Joker, all the while remaining respectful to the landmark performances of some very well-loved actors that had come before. Early reviews say the three actors hit their mark, as well as outstanding notices for the ever-hilarious performance of Charlie Schlatter as the voice of Robin.

None were strangers to the voiceover world. Baker has crafted an impressive resume as the lead character in Bioshock Infinite along with roles in video games like Batman: Arkham City. Willingham continues to expand his repertoire with roles in animated series like Avengers Assemble and The Super Hero Squad Show. Smith has supplied voices across the realms of television and video games, most notably in Mortal Combat vs. DC Universe. And Charlie Schlatter, recognizable for his live-action television roles in Diagnosis Murder and Ferris Bueller, has logged a significant number of hours in the recording booth prior to inheriting the role of Robin.

All four actors were taking on the iconic roles for the first time, and the esteemed task of meeting lofty expectations was not lost on any of them.

“It’s a different take on Superman, probably a lot funnier than you’ve ever seen him,” says Willingham, who admitted to doing his share of superhero role play as a kid – complete with Superman underwear and the blanket/cape tied around his neck. “In this piece, Superman is
definitely a hyper-alpha-male, super boy scout, naïve to an extreme, and probably a little annoying. He’s the guy that reminds everyone that their greatest endeavor can easily be eclipsed by him doing the same exact thing  -- with only his pinky, and with both eyes closed. And it antagonizes Batman more than anyone.

“There was a lot of humor throughout, and deadpan deliveries are a big part of it. When you have Troy Baker on one side as Batman, and Clancy Brown as Lex Luthor, it definitely heightens the interplay. Then you’ve got Batman being sarcastic and Superman being naïve and not really getting the joke – that just makes it that much funnier.”

Baker is no stranger to the Batman universe, having played Two-Face in the popular videogame Batman: Arkham City, as well as some cool roles in Dark Knight productions on the horizon. But this was his first time providing the vocals under the cowl.

“There have been so many iterations of Batman – from Adam West to Christian Bale – and someone just recently asked me who my favorite Batman: for me, it is unequivocally Kevin Conroy,” says Baker of the voice actor from the original Batman: The Animated Series. “Kevin is the Batman that I grew up with. So when I was recording, there was always a little of that ‘what-would-Kevin-do’ in the back of my head. But I just tried to bring my own thing to the performance. Nobody can ever top Kevin Conroy. I just focused on trying to do the best Batman I can.”

Smith had an equally impressive task – bringing a new take to a role that has been defined several times by the likes of Mark Hamill, Heath Ledger, Richard Epcar and Kevin Michael Richardson.

“I did listen to various clips from different folks, but I also didn’t want to do a copy of anybody,” says Smith. “I didn’t want to do Mark Hamill or Richard Epcar, and I admire both of them greatly. I think I was able to find a bit of a regional dialect that wasn’t too noticeable, but separated him from people who have come before.”

For every version of the Joker, the actor must bring forth that sinister laugh. For Smith, as has been the case for so many others, the trick was not shredding his voice while conjuring that cackle.

“At first, the laughing did strain out my voice, because it doesn’t live in a comfortable place,” Smith admits. “After the first five or six times, you figure out where it needs to be in your range. It becomes a muscle memory thing, but it’s still a vocal work out. By the end of it, you are exhausted.”

Smith’s version of the Joker definitely impressed Baker, particularly coming off a job the two recently did where Smith filled the superhero role.

“Keeping in mind that Kevin Conroy is my Batman and Mark Hamill is my Joker, so anybody that tries to fill those boots is in for trouble,” Baker says, “But Chris just knocked it out of the park. From the first time he delivered a line and then did the Joker cackle, all of us turned and stared. We were speechless. It wasn’t Hamill, it wasn’t Heath Ledger, but it was perfect Joker.”

Based on the popular video game, the TT Animation produced LEGO Batman: The Movie – DC Superheroes Unite arrives May 21, 2013 from Warner Bros. Home Entertainment as a Blu-ray™ Combo Pack and DVD, On Demand and for Digital Download. The Blu-ray™ Combo Pack will include UltraViolet™*. Release will include an exclusive Lego Clark
Kent/Superman figurine on pack while supplies last.



05.21.2013 - PRELUDE TO INFINITY – AVENGERS #14 First Look




This June, jump on the road to the biggest comic book event of the summer with Avengers #14 – a prelude to Infinity! From the blockbuster creative team of writers Jonathan Hickman & Nick Spencer and artist Stefano Caselli! With the Builders light years away, all of the Origin Sites across the globe activate sending their signal across the Marvel Universe! But what do they mean? And with A.I.M.’s S7 program about to kickoff – can the Avengers tackle both threats before it’s too late?

Every issue of Avengers includes a code for a free digital copy of that same comic on the Marvel Comics app for iOS and Android devices. Additionally, each issue of Avengers features special augmented reality content available exclusive through the Marvel AR app – including cover recaps, behind the scenes features and more that add value to your reading experience at no additional cost.

This June, Hickman, Spencer & Caselli prepare the Avengers for the worst in Avengers #14!

Join the conversation on Twitter with hash tag #MarvelINFINITY, and don’t forget to follow us at @Marvel [www.twitter.com/Marvel]!

For more on Marvel’s Infinity, please visit www.marvel.com.

AVENGERS #14 (APR130640)
Written by JONATHAN HICKMAN & NICK SPENCER
Art by STEFANO CASELLI
Cover by LEINIL YU
FOC- 05/27/13 On-Sale – 06/19/13

To find a comic shop near you, visit www.comicshoplocator.com or call 1-888-comicbook.

Marvel Entertainment, LLC, a wholly-owned subsidiary of The Walt Disney Company, is one of the world's most prominent character-based entertainment companies, built on a proven library of over 8,000 characters featured in a variety of media over seventy years. Marvel utilizes its character franchises in entertainment, licensing and publishing. For more information visit www.marvel.com

05.21.2013 - Marvel Knights Animation's WOLVERINE: ORIGIN debuts for the first time on home entertainment shelves nationwide on July 9, 2013 from Shout! Factory
The Eisner-Award Winning Series By Joe Quesada, Paul Jenkins, Bill Jemas, Andy Kubert and Richard Isanove Leaps from the Marvel Comic Book Pages to the Screen!

MARVEL KNIGHTS ANIMATION PRESENTS WOLVERINE: ORIGIN FEATURING COVER ART ILLUSTRATION BY JOE QUESADA AND RICHARD ISANOVE

UNLEASHED ON HOME ENTERTAINMENT SHELVES FOR THE FIRST TIME
OWN IT ON DVD JULY 9, 2013 FROM SHOUT! FACTORY

This summer, Marvel fans will learn the secret history of WOLVERINE that changed the Marvel Universe forever! Written by Eisner Award winner Paul Jenkins from a story by Joe Quesada, Paul Jenkins and Bill Jemas with captivating artwork by Andy Kubert and Richard Isanove. The adventures of Wolverine’s early days and the startling revelation of his true origins are brought to life when MARVEL KNIGHTS ANIMATION’S WOLVERINE: ORIGIN debuts for the first time on home entertainment shelves nationwide on July 9, 2013 from Shout! Factory. This highly anticipated Marvel Knights Animation presentation boasts engaging storytelling combined with visual rich animation and insightful bonus content. Featuring cover art illustration by Joe Quesada and Richard Isanove, this deluxe DVD is collected in a unique comic book style packaging that bridges the comic book to DVD concept. As one of the most important stories of all time in the Marvel Universe, this DVD is a must have for loyal fans, comic book enthusiasts and collectors. MARVEL KNIGHTS ANIMATION’S WOLVERINE: ORIGIN is priced to own at $14.97.

http://www.amazon.com/Marvel-Knights-Wolverine-Origin/dp/B00C7A8WY2/ref=sr_1_5?s=movies-tv&ie=UTF8&qid=1369063135&sr=1-5&keywords=wolverine+origins

Exclusive behind-the-scenes bonus content features interviews with the creators and illustrators to provide an intimate and retrospective look at the development and production process of this amazing story. Marvel Knights Animation remains true to the heritage of panel-by-panel graphic storytelling, boasting groundbreaking illustrations, sensational soundscapes, and of course, the explosiveness of the Mighty Marvel Universe. Behind every image and every word lies the genius of Marvel’s celebrated creators.

SYNOPSIS
Wolverine is the best there is at what he does - although of course, what he does isn’t very nice. But long before he was a member of the X-Men, a tormented experiment of the Weapon-X project, or even a savage bar brawler known as Logan – he was simply a young boy.

What incredible forces created this man, the world’s greatest killing machine? For years, Wolverine has searched desperately for answers from his past, from the wilds of the Canadian Wilderness to the teeming cities of Japan and beyond. And despite his perseverance and longing for the truth, he remains an enigma to himself and those around him. But, in this landmark event, Marvel reveals all: the birth and childhood of young James Howlett…the intriguing secrets of his family history…and the tragedy that changed everything.

Welcome to the greatest story never told.

Bonus Features Include:
An exclusive retrospective with the Eisner Award-Winning creative team behind Origin.

Total Feature Running Time: +/- 66 minutes

About Marvel Entertainment
Marvel Entertainment, LLC, a wholly-owned subsidiary of The Walt Disney Company, is one of the world's most prominent character-based entertainment companies, built on a proven library of over 8,000 characters featured in a variety of media over seventy years.  Marvel utilizes its character franchises in entertainment, licensing and publishing.  For more information visit marvel.com.

About Shout! Factory

Shout! Factory, LLC is a diversified multi-platform entertainment company devoted to producing, uncovering, preserving and revitalizing the very best of pop culture. Founders Richard Foos, Bob Emmer and Garson Foos have spent their entire careers sharing their music, television and film favorites with discerning consumers the world over. Shout! Factory’s DVD and Blu-Ray™ offerings serve up feature films, classic and contemporary TV series, animation, live music and comedy specials in lavish packages crammed with extras.  Shout’s audio division boasts GRAMMY®-nominated box sets, new releases from storied artists, lovingly assembled album reissues and indispensable “best of” compilations.  In addition, Shout! Factory maintains a vast digital distribution network which delivers video and audio content to all the leading digital service providers in North America.  Shout! Factory also owns and operates Timeless Media Group, Biograph Records, Majordomo Records and HighTone Records. These riches are the result of a creative acquisition mandate that has established the company as a hotbed of cultural preservation and commercial reinvention.  Shout! Factory is based in Santa Monica, California. For more on Shout! Factory, visit shoutfactory.com

Monday, May 20, 2013

05.20.2013 - ARCHIE COMICS AUGUST 2013 SOLICIATIONS

ARCHIE COMICS AUGUST 2013 SOLICITS



ARCHIE #647
Archie in ìWelcome to Mirrordaleîóa date night with Betty turns into an inter-universe collision when the Madhouse Carnival comes to Riverdale! Archie has a lot to reflect on when he takes a trip to the House of Mirrors, but little does he know those mirrors are more than they appear! Heís catapulted into a world where everything seems familiar to homeójust a bit different! Can Archie make it back to his date in Riverdale, or is he doomed to switch places with his mirror-world counterpart forever? Thereís only one way to find out!
Script: Steven Duvall Scott
Art: Dan Parent, Rich Koslowski, and Jack Morelli
Cover: Dan Parent
Variant Cover: Jeff Shultz, and Tito PeÒa
Shipping Date: 8/21
On Sale at Comic Specialty Shops: 9/4
32-page, full color comic
$2.99 US.

ARCHIE COMICS SUPER SPECIAL MAGAZINE #4
Something amazing is happening in Riverdale! The quarterly Archie Comic Super Special Magazine rolls on with this awesomely autumn-themed edition! School is back in session, the leaves are changing colors and Halloween is approaching with its promises of tricks and treats!
Get ready for colors, classes and costumes galore from the Archie vault. All this plus creator spotlights, the latest Archie news, a brand new multi-color foil-enhanced cover and much, much more in this jam-packed magazine! Featuring stories with Archie, Betty and Veronica, Jughead, Sabrina the teenage Witch, Josie and the Pussycats and more!
Script: Various
Art: Various
Cover: Dan Parent, Bob Smith, and Tito PeÒa
Shipping Date: 8/28
On Sale at Comic Specialty Shops: 9/11
128-page, full color comic
$9.99 US.

ARCHIE DOUBLE DIGEST #243
Archie imagines what it would be like if he were a private eye, donning the fedora of Detective Sam Scooper! When socialite Veronica Lodge is robbed for the third time in one month, she believes itís an inside job and calls on Scooper to find out which of her mansion staff has been snagging her swag! But the mystery of the missing mansion merch wonít be a mystery for long! Find out whoís the thief in ìThe Ocelot Caper,î the lead story in this fun-filled double digest!
Script: George Gladir
Art: Fernando Ruiz, Rich Koslowski, and Bill Yoshida
Cover: Fernando Ruiz, Bob Smith, and Tito PeÒa
Shipping Date: 8/21
On Sale at Comic Specialty Shops: 9/4
160-page, full color comic
$3.99 US.

ARCHIE & FRIENDS DOUBLE DIGEST #31
Archie and the Gang head westóthe Wild, Wild West, that is! When Mr. Lodge plans on opening a Western theme park, he brings along Veronica, Betty, Archie and Jughead for some insights to make the park teen-friendly. But their trip to the quiet town of Silverton soon turns into more than they bargained for when theyíre met with resistanceóand not just from the townsfolk! Could the quaint town be hiding a dark secret? Find out in the lead story, ìA Change of Plansî! Then, Veronica sets out to save the worldóone shop at a time! After learning of the positive effects on the environment in Rwanda because a nation-wide ban of plastic bags, she bans plastic from her own lifeóand tries to do the same in Riverdale! Will Riverdale be plastic-free? Or is Veronica in over her head? Find out in ìGetting Drastic with Plasticî!
Script: George Gladir, Batton Lash
Art: Rex Lindsey, Rich Koslowksi, Bill Yoshida, Bill Galvan, Jim Amash, and Jack Morelli
Cover: Fernando Ruiz, Rich Koslowski, and Tito PeÒa
Shipping Date: 8/28
On Sale at Comic Specialty Shops: 9/11
160-page, full color comic
$3.99 US.

ARCHIE 1000 PAGE COMICS EXTRAVAGANZA (TPB)
Archie 1000 Page Comics Extravaganza is the latest volume of our biggest-ever collections, featuring over 100 full-color stories in a format similar to the hugely popular Archie Digest series at an amazing price! Follow Americaís favorite redñhead as he navigates the pressures of the American teenager in the awkward, charming and hilarious way youíve come to know and love. Features the same mix of wild humor, awkward charm and genuine relatability that has kept Archie and the gang relevant for kids and adults alike for over 70 years. Itís 1000 pages of Archie fun at one low price!
Script: Various
Art: Various
Cover: Dan DeCarlo, Tito PeÒa
978-1-936975-74-7
$14.99/$15.99CAN
4 7/8 x 6 9/16î
Trade Paperback
1000pp, Full Color
Direct Market On-sale: 8/7

THE ART OF ARCHIE: THE COVERS (HC)
From the team that brought you the highly acclaimed The Art of Betty and Veronica hardcover comes the all new prestige collection The Art of Archie: The Covers. Discover America's favorite teenager as never before with this beautifully-designed celebration of over 70 years of the funniest, most classic and iconic Archie Comics covers as selected by fans and creators alike. The Art of Archie: The Covers goes behind the scenes of the all-time best comic book covers in Archieís history with an insiderís look at their inspiration, creation and ongoing cultural legacy, featuring its own gorgeous foil and spot UV-enhanced cover.
Script: Craig Yoe and Victor Gorelick
Art: Cover: Harry Lucey
978-1-936975-79-2
$29.99/$34.99CAN
9 x 12î
Trade Paperback
160pp, Full Color
Direct Market On-sale: 10/29

THE BEST OF ARCHIE COMICS BOOK 3 (TPB)
The third volume of the bestselling BEST OF ARCHIE series is here! This fun, full-color collection features over 400 pages of all-time favorite stories, hand-picked and introduced by Archie creators, editors, historians and famous fans from over 200,000 pages of material. A must-have edition for anyone whoís ever enjoyed Archie Comics, or a great introduction to a new generation of Archie fans!
Script: Various
Art: Various
Cover: Dan Parent
978-1-936975-61-7
$9.99/$10.99CAN
5 1/4 x 7 1/2î
Trade Paperback
416pp, Full Color
Direct Market On-sale: 9/3

BETTY AND VERONICA #267
Betty and Veronica in ìLittle Mermaidsî ñ The storybook series rolls on, this time with Betty and Veronica as mermaid princesses in an aquatic adventure! Betty is unhappy with her life under the sea and wishes to be a part of the human worldómuch to the chagrin of her father, King Tritonkins, and her step-sister Veronica. Things get even more complicated when she and Veronica venture to the surface and save the life of the human Prince Archieóand both fall in love with him! In order to re-connect with their human love interest, they must make a sacrifice. Enter: the evil sea-witch Cheryl. When she gives them an offer they canít refuse, is it sayonara to the sub-aquatic world and, if so, at what cost? Find out in this Archie-fied take on the classic Little Mermaid story!
Script: Dan Parent
Art: Jeff Shultz, Bob Smith, and Jack Morelli
Cover: Dan Parent
Variant Cover: Fiona Staples
Shipping Date: 8/7
On Sale at Comic Specialty Shops: 8/21
32-page, full color comic
$2.99 US.

BETTY AND VERONICA DOUBLE DIGEST #215
When Veronica insists Betty get a makeover at the mall, Betty ends up loving her new lookóbut not the price tag that comes with it! Can she manage to stay beautiful on a budget? And what will Archie think of her new style? The answer is sealed with a kiss in ìLip Lockî!
Script: Kathleen Webb
Art: Jeff Shultz, Henry Scarpelli, and Vickie Williams
Cover: Gisele, Tito PeÒa
Shipping Date: 8/14
On Sale at Comic Specialty Shops: 8/28
160-page, full color comic
$3.99 US.

JUGHEAD DOUBLE DOUBLE DIGEST #196
It's double the Jughead, and double the laughs! When Jugheadís Uncle Clabberhead gives him a palace guard hat as a gift, Reggie challenges him to walkóer, standóin a guardís shoes. In order to win a free lunch, Jughead has to remain still for an entire free period. That shouldnít be too hardóuntil Archie leaves an important task in Jugheadís hands that could decide whether or not Veronica goes to the dance with him! Will the real challenge be for Jughead, or the distraught Archie? Find out in ìAll I Can Stand,î the first of many hilarious stories in this Double Double Digest with TWICE the laughs!
Script: Craig Boldman
Art: Rex Lindsey
Cover: Fernando Ruiz, Rich Koswloski, and Tito PeÒa
Shipping Date: 8/28
On Sale at Comic Specialty Shops: 9/11
320-page, full color comic
$5.99 US.

MEGA MAN #29
The biggest storyline in Mega Man comic history starts here! "BLACKOUT: Curse of Ra Moon" Part One: The world has shut down! When the power of Ra Moon robs the Earth of all its technology, itís up to Mega Man and a handful of Robot Masters to set things right. But just how can robots handle the force of a technological meltdown if theyíre cut off from the ability to re-charge? Has Mega Man fallen right into Dr. Wilyís trap? Or has Wily underestimated his mysterious new ally? Featuring all-new cover art from Patrick "SPAZ" Spaziante, and variant cover by comics-superstar Dean Haspiel!
SCRIPT: Ian Flynn
ART: Mike Cavallaro, Gary Martin, John Workman, and Matt Herms
Cover by Patrick "SPAZ" Spaziante
Variant Cover by Dean Haspiel
Shipping Date: 8/28
On Sale at Comic Specialty Shops: 9/11
32-page, full color comic
$2.99 US.

SABRINA THE TEENAGE WITCH: THE MAGIC WITHIN 3 (TPB)
The popular manga-style take on Sabrina the Teenage Witch returns with a third thrilling installment! Full of romance and the supernatural, Sabrina is torn between two worlds and two boys while attending both a mortal and magical high school. Itís Sabrina as youíve never seen her before in an enchanted adventure brought to you by super talented writer/artist Tania Del Rio, collecting her acclaimed run on everyoneís favorite teenage witch!
Script: Tania Del Rio
Art: Tania Del Rio
Cover: Tania Del Rio
978-1-936975-60-0
$10.99/$11.99CAN
5 1/4 x 7 1/2î
Trade Paperback
256pp, B&W
Direct Market On-sale: 9/4

SONIC SELECT 8 (TPB)
Sonic the Hedgehog's most popular graphic novel series is BACK! Miles ìTailsî Prower is Sonicís best friendóand now itís his turn to take to the skies on his very own adventure! Debuting in the video game and appearing in the cartoons, Tails now continues his quests in the comic series. In this volume, youíll catch Tails on a journey that takes him to the mysterious continent of Downunda, a chance meeting with two brand new teams of Freedom Fighters, and an encounter with some really fearsome badniks! This volume of Sonic Select collects all of the stories leading up to as well as the fan-favorite, ultra-rare entire Tails mini-series!
Script & Art: Various
Cover: Patrick "SPAZ" Spaziante
978-1-936975-63-1
$11.99/$13.99CAN
6 x 9î
Trade Paperback
128 pp
Direct Market On-sale: 9/11

SONIC SUPER DIGEST #4
Sonic Super Digest is celebrating 20 years of SONIC THE HEDGEHOG COMICS! For the first time in Sonic Comic history, Sonic the Hedgehog's comic book adventures are now available in the popular digest format! Where Sonic Super Special Magazine leaves off, this quarterly digest collection picks up ñ with even more classic adventure from the Sonic comic library! This issue hosts a special spotlight on some super special family members of Sonic and the Freedom Fighters'! Perfect for fans new and old, Sonic Super Digest collects tons of comic stories, coloring pages, bonus content, and features an all-new cover with pencils by Sonic artist Lamar Wells! Get SUPER!
Script & Art: Various
Cover: Lamar Wells, Jim Amash, and Matt Herms
Shipping Date: 8/7
On Sale at Comic Specialty Shops: 8/21
128-page, full color comic
$3.99 US.

SONIC THE HEDGEHOG #252
SONIC IS BACK and facing the HUGE consequences of the mega-hit Sonic/Mega Man crossover story arc in "At All Costs" Part Two! As the crossover crashed to a close, Sonic and Tails have returned to a world which is reeling from the cataclysmic effects of the Eggman/Wily genesis wave! The damage was severe, the threats have changed, and the mysteries are piling up! What has happened to Naugus in this new landscape? What is the final fate of Sally Acorn? Sonic and Tails are ready to tackle all the drama ahead of themóbut first they must survive the wrath of the terrifying Tails Doll! Featuring new cover art from Sonic artist superstar Ben Bates and a special "SEGA" Variant!
SCRIPT: Ian Flynn
ART: Evan Stanley, Terry Austin, John Workman, and Matt Herms
Cover by Ben Bates
Variant Cover artwork provided by SEGA
Shipping Date: 8/21
On Sale at Comic Specialty Shops: 9/4
32-page, full color comic
$2.99 US.

SONIC UNIVERSE #55
AAAAARRRR you ready?? "Pirate Plunder Panicî Part One: Itís mystery and mayhem on the high seas as Amy and Cream join first mates Blaze and Marine in their search for the final Sol Emerald! As ships clash on the stormy waters, familiar faces start to appear amongst the opposition and Blaze is targeted as enemy number 1! Who is the new, sinister force leading the robot pirates, and what is his past with Blaze? And what does a certain dynamite duck have to do with it all? Straight out of the smash-hit Sonic/Mega Man crossover event, you're going to TREASURE this all-new storyline written and penciled by Sonic art guru TRACY YA'RRRRR-DLEY!
SCRIPT: Tracy Yardley!
ART: Tracy Yardley!, Jim Amash, Jack Morelli, and Thomas Mason
Cover by Tracy Yardley!, Jim Amash, Jack Morelli, and Steve Downer
Variant Cover artwork provided by SEGA and Vincent Lovallo
Shipping Date: 8/7
On Sale at Comic Specialty Shops: 8/21
32-page, full color comic
$2.99 US.

WORLD OF ARCHIE DOUBLE DIGEST #31
School is back in session, but everyoneís still got summer on their minds! Can the students get their heads out of the clouds and their noses back in the books or will the teachers have their work cut out for them? You might just be surprised to find out who else is distracted by sunny thoughts! Read ìMind Games,î to find out!
Script: Mike Pellowski
Art: Fernando Ruiz, Rudy Lapick, and Bill Yoshida
Cover: Jeff Shultz, Bob Smith, and Tito PeÒa
Shipping Date: 8/7
On Sale at Comic Specialty Shops: 8/21
160-page, full color comic
$3.99 US.