Babylon 5 ISN News: The Zocalo Today
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The Zocalo Today
Welcome and thank you for dropping by. Babylon 5 brought many of us together -- and it remains with us, despite the fact that is no longer in production. The good thing is that
the internet gives a LOT of ways to stay in touch. Don't be shy. Join in the discussion today or
drop by my blog! You can also find me on FaceBook and Twitter.
If you have questions or items for the news, drop me a line at sgbruckner@aol.com.
Again, WELCOME!
SUNDAY, MAY 23, 2010
WEEKEND BOX OFFICE
DreamWorks Animation's 3D family comedy SHREK FOREVER AFTER took in less green stuff than expected on Friday,
topping the daily boxoffice rankings with an estimated $20.8 million in domestic coin.
The first-day tally for the Paramount-distributed fourquel narrows a wide range of projections for the film's
first weekend to the lower end of pre-release forecasts. Saturday and Sunday matinees will be critical in
deciding the PG-rated pic's three-day debut, but the disappointing Friday tally means it's highly unlikely
the franchise's final installment will reach $100 million through Sunday.
It also suggests the $121.6 million bow by 2007's SHREK THE THIRD will remain the lucrative franchise's top opening.
So much for the ability of 3D to open a film, though execs will be hoping the franchise's first extra-dimensional
installment displays the kind of leggy run over the longer haul as displayed by DreamWorks Animation's March
opener HOW TO TRAIN YOUR DRAGON. Bowing with less than $44 million, DRAGON enjoyed smoking' 3D playdates
over subsequent frames, and the family adventure has gone on to become a $210 million grosser.
This weekend's only other wide opener had an even more distressing Friday, as Universal debuted action comedy
MAC GRUBER with a scant $1.6 million in its first day in theaters. That was good only for fifth place among
Friday rankings and eliminates any shot the R-rated pic had shot at hitting double-digit millions through Sunday.
Uni's Russell Crowe starrer ROBIN HOOD started its soph session by posting a $5.7 million Friday for $53.6
million in cumulative boxoffice and a third-place showing on the day.
THE A-TEAM
20th Century Fox has released the first clip from The A-Team which you can watch using the player below!
Opening in theaters on June 11, the Joe Carnahan-directed action adventure stars Liam Neeson, Bradley Cooper,
Quinton "Rampage" Jackson, Sharlto Copley, Jessica Biel, Patrick Wilson and Gerald McRane.
The big screen adaptation follows the exciting and daring exploits of a colorful team of former Special Forces
soldiers who were set up for a crime they did not commit. Going "rogue," they utilize their unique talents to
try and clear their names and find the true culprit.
SATURDAY, MAY 22, 2010
JMS IN SANTA ANA TODAY
Just a quick reminder that J. Michael Straczynski, the Great Maker himself, will be at the Regency South Coast
Theater in Santa Ana at 10:00am on Saturday. See details below.
LOST FINALE SUNDAY
Everyone knows that LOST's upcoming series finale will be big. Countries around the world are planning to
simulcast the airing of ABC's Lost 2-1/2 hour series finale, "The End," at the same time as the U.S. West
Coast broadcast, reported TVguide.com.
The finale airs in the United States on Sunday, May 23 at 9/8c on ABC. The United Kingdom's Sky1 is planning
on airing the finale at 5 a.m. local time, and then rebroadcasting the finale during its normal time there.
Other countries that are also planning to simulcast include Italy, Portugal, Canada, Spain, Israel, and Turkey.
While the decision to simulcast was made to keep spoilers from leaking out and to stop illegal internet downloads,
it makes the finale an even bigger ... and now worldwide... shared event.
A GAME OF THRONES
HBO has recast the role of Daenerys Targaryen for the upcoming series A GAME OF THRONES, based on the awesome
George R.R. Martin book of the same name. Maureen Ryan is reporting that Emilia Clark will play Daenerys after
Tamzin Merchant left the project last month, and that Clark "appears to be a newcomer to U.S. television."
That means some scenes in the pilot will have to be reshot, which is always a bit ominous for any TV show
but hopefully won't derail the project. In March another key role in the series also had to be recast when
Jennifer Ehle was replaced by Michelle Fairley as Catelyn Stark.
On the plus side, the cast that has stuck around is pretty amazing: Lena Headey, Sean Bean, Nikolaj Coster-Waldau,
Fairley, Peter Dinklage, Jason Momoa and Mark Addy.
VAMPIRE
Screen Daily reports that Kristin Kreuk from "Smallville," Keisha Castle-Hughes (Whale Rider) and Rachel Leigh
Cook are joining the cast of Iwai Shunji's VAMPIRE, which began filming in Vancouver last week. It will be the
first English language film from the Japanese director of the cult hit ALL ABOUT LILY CHOU-CHOU who also had
a segment in the recent anthology NEW YORK, I LOVE YOU. The three actresses, Adelaide Clemens and Trevor Morgan
join the already-announced cast of Kevin Zegers, Amanda Plummer and Yu Aoi from Japan. VAMPIRE NEWS
It looks like Jason Friedberg and Aaron Seltzer, the makers of Date Movie, Epic Movie, Meet the Spartans and
Disaster Movie, are back and ready to take on the vampire genre themselves with Untitled Vampire Spoof, which
20th Century Fox just slotted in for release on Wednesday, August 18.
MAC GYVER WRITER HIRED
Just as MAC GRUBER hits theaters, news comes our way that Jason Richman has been hired to write the script for
New Line/Warner Bros.' MAC GYVER movie.
MAC GYVER was a science-oriented adventure series that ran from 1985-92 on ABC. Richard Dean Anderson, later of
"Stargate: Atlantis" and "SG-1" fame, starred as an incredibly resourceful secret agent for the Phoenix Foundation
who frequently would escape from dangerous situations with ingenious and lightning-quick engineering trickery.
Richman has worked on films including Black Hawk Down, Rush Hour 3, Bad Company and the proposed Beverly Hills Cop 4.
Raffaella De Laurentiis is producing through her Raffaella Productions along with Martha De Laurentiis and series
creator Lee Zlotoff. Dino De Laurentiis is executive producing.
KUNG FU PANDA MOVIE
Heat Vision reports that Gary Oldman has joined the voice cast of DreamWorks Animation's KUNG FU PANDA: THE KABOOM
OF DOOM.
In the sequel, a new villain has emerged with a mysterious weapon so powerful it threatens the very existence of
kung fu. It is up to Po and the Furious Five to protect all that they know. But first, Po must confront his long
lost past.
Oldman will voice a character named Peacock.
Jennifer Yuh Nelson is directing the film, scheduled for a June 3, 2011 release.
The first film was made for about $130 million and grossed an impressive $631.7 million worldwide.
THE COLONY
Patrick Tatopoulos (Underworld: Rise of the Lycans) is in negotiations to direct Participant Media's eco-horror
tale THE COLONY starting this fall, according to Heat Vision.
The Summit Entertainment release "revolves around a group of survivors forced underground by the next ice age.
There, they must fight to preserve humanity against a savage threat."
Stacy Title and Jonathan Penner wrote the script, which was rewritten by David Lee Johnson. Participant executive
vp production Jonathan King will oversee.
Steven Schneider of Room 101 and Vertigo Entertainment's Doug Davison and Roy Lee are producing, with Gabriel
Mason executive producing.
SCIENCE FICTION NEWS STORIES:
News from yesterday and the last couple of months can be found in the
News Archive. Check it out
to catch up on all that has been going on in the world of science fiction.
7:00pm on ABC
Lost-Episode: The Final Journey (NEW)
Reviewing the events of the series; past and present cast members discuss their experiences.
9:00pm on ABC
Lost-Episode: The End (NEW)
The series concludes.
10:00pm on CBS
CSI: Crime Scene Investigation-Episode: The Gone Dead Train (First Aired: April 30, 2009)
The CSI team is baffled by an unexplained illness that affects random citizens of Las Vegas.
ON SYFY TONIGHT
9:00pm
Casino Royale (2006)
After receiving a license to kill, British agent James Bond enters a high-stakes poker game with Le Chiffre,
a man who finances terrorist groups. Based on the novel by Ian Fleming. Daniel Craig, Eva Green, Mads Mikkelsen,
Judi Dench, Caterina Murino
KEEPING UP WITH CAST AND CREW
J. MICHAEL STRACZYNSKI IN SANTA ANA ON SATURDAY
"Demonstrating a serious lack of decorum on their part, the Orange County Screenwriters Association has invited
me to talk about writing on May 22nd at the Regency South Coast Theater in Santa Ana. It's open to the public,
with the first hour spent on general business before I show up. So the services start at 10 a.m...., the trouble
begins at 11, and the first arrests should commence by noon."
Join me on the ISN News Blog at
http://isnnews.blogspot.com. I’ll put in stuff that I think is interesting
for others to read about and I hope you will join in to discuss of the issues --
related to science fiction or not!
Here is a quote from J. Michael Straczynski about emotions. I had this theory that the more important and intimate the emotion, the fewer words are required
to express it.
First it's in dating: "Will you go out with me?" Six words.
"Honey, I care for you." Five words.
"You matter to me." Four words.
"I love you." Three words.
"Marry me." Two words.
But what's left? What's the one most important and intimate word you can ever say to somebody?
It's "goodbye."
While Andreas Katsulas (G'Kar), Rick (Biggs) and Tim (Choate) are no longer with us,
we will not forget their wonderful personalities and talent -- as well as their
significant contributions to the BABYLON 5 universe. Be sure to visit
In Memory Of for more
information about memorial efforts.
Until we met again, in a place where no shadows fall.
BABYLON 5 BIRTHDAYS
Theodore Bikel - May 2
Michael O'Hare - May 6
Stephen Furst - May 8
Melissa Gilbert-Boxleitner - May 8
Bruce Boxleitner - May 12
Andreas Katsulas - May 18
Andrea Thompson - May 22
Doug Wise - May 21
Douglas Netter - May 23
Paul Winfield - May 22
Roy Dotrice - May 26
Harlan Ellison - May 27
Have I missed anyone? If you know the birthday of someone connected with Babylon 5, pass the
information along. We want to include everyone in our Happy Birthday Wishes.
BILL MUMY RADIO
Bill Mumy is inviting you to check out his brand new weekly radio show, "THE REAL
GOOD RADIO HOUR with your host Bill Mumy".
We'll be listening to many different styles of music and learning about those who
pioneered them.
"The Real Good Radio Hour" will air every Wednesday and Friday at 7 PM both Pacific
and Eastern time and can be heard weekly on KSAV.org.
Here it is a major milestone episode, and we were so excited to get to the daydreaming that I totally
forgot what show number we were on.
Laura from the League of Non-Aligned Knitters and Sandy Bruckner from ISNNews.net join Summer in
chatting about the male eye candy (or lack thereof) on Babylon 5.
Tonight’s definitely Ladies’ Night, but we’re still not sure if Bret was more interested in exploring
his boundaries, or learning some new things about what women really want from a man.
Girl Talk: Summer, Laura and Sandy go into deep detail about which men they’d go for and why, which
features or traits attract our attentions and desires, and which ones turn us off fast.
And the discussion’s not limited to the human men… some of the aliens are given serious consideration,
and Bret weighs in on a number of characters he could seriously consider entertaining.
And we just can’t stop thinking about the possibilities when you’ve got six.
Lurker’s Guide 2.0: Summer is starting a push to get Lurker’s Guide 2.0 completed and finished, including
missing collectibles, photos of magazine covers and toys, and all sorts of other B5 goodies that didn’t
get included in the original guide during the years after Crusade. Let her know if you want to lend a hand.
Submitting your own Feedback: If you have any suggestions or comments, please let us know! Call 206-338-2259,
or just email us a comment you’ve recorded yourself!
More Parody/Filk Songs Wanted: If you know of any more B5-related fan songs out there, definitely let us know,
so we can let other B5 fans know where to buy them! And if those CDs are out of print, let’s brainstorm on
ways to get those songs back out there for fans!
Live Video Stream: Yes, the technology has progressed to the point where we can now play video voicemails into
the video live stream. Check out the video stream of our live feed at our FarPoint Media Page (and leave a
review for our show while you’re there!).
Second Life Info: FarPoint Media’s Second Life space can be found on the Third Life Books island in the Wind
River Territory. Find the island here: http://slurl.com/secondlife/Wind%20River%20Territory/50/129/22
Babylon 5 Information Gathering: If you know of a dead or abandoned B5 related website that may be in need
of a new home, let Summer know! Maybe we can mirror it here or house it on a sister site.
If you can, Please Donate to the show!
Want to expand your BluRay library? Warner Bros. Home Entertainment has a special offer for you.
Starting today, with the all-new DVD2Blu (http://bit.ly/DVD2Blu) over 85 Warner Bros. films including Gran
Torino, 2001 Space Odyssey, Superman II, Ocean’s Eleven and dozens more are available on Blu-ray for as
low as $4.95!
Via the all-new DVD2Blu.com dozens of Warner Bros blockbusters and Academy Award Winning films are now
available on Blu-ray for as low as for $4.95 with the exchange of your existing DVD copy of the same movie.
How does it work? Select the title you wish to upgrade, and mail in your standard DVD with pre-paid postage.
A short time later receive the copy of the same film on Blu-ray Disc.
Films included in this offer are: Pans Labyrinth, Corpse Bride, Troy, The Departed, An American in Paris,
The Shining, Ocean’s Eleven, V for Vendetta, Bullitt, Superman Returns, Get Smart, and many more.
Warner Bros. Home Entertainment Group is proud to be an environmentally friendly company and will recycle
all DVDs mailed for upgrade. The discs will be processed and used for future plastic packaging.
NEW RELEASES FROM THE WARNER ARCHIVE
LOUIE L'AMOUR COLLECTION
Release Date: May 19, 2010
Western lovers! Have I got a deal for you. Warner Bros. has three classics to fill out your Western collection.
The Louis L'Amour Collection: THE SACKETTS, CONAGHER and CATLOW. Featuring Acclaimed Actors Including Tom Selleck,
Sam Elliott, and Yul Brynner.
"Known as 'America's Storyteller,' Louis L'Amour brought the American Frontier to life through his novels and we are
proud to share his work through these terrific films," said Rosemary Markson, WHV Vice President, TV and Special
Interest Marketing. "Following our successful Tom Selleck and Sam Elliott Western collections and just in time
for Father's Day, The Louis L'Amour Collection is one we are confident Western fans will treasure and enjoy."
THE SACKETTS - Tom Selleck, Sam Elliott and Jeff Osterhage play brothers who migrate west to make their fortunes
in cattle-herding and gold prospecting. Each aims to make it on his own - but each also stands up for the other
when the going gets tough. And their guns blaze a name for themselves in untamed New Mexico territory.
CONAGHER - He conquered the range. She conquered his heart. Sam Elliott and Katharine Ross star as a cowhand and
a widowed ranch owner who are drawn to each other when ruthless rustlers threaten his livelihood and her homestead.
CATLOW - A renegade outlaw wants to pull off a gold heist but finds it hard because he's such a wanted man - by
the Mexican Army, his hellcat girlfriend, an Indian war party, a vengeful killer and several hotheaded cowpokes
from his former gang. Yul Brynner, Richard Crenna and Leonard Nimoy star.
Synopsis:
The 1965 film captures the essence of Boris Pasternak’s Russian novel of remarkable passion and sweeping
grandeur, presenting an intimate and deeply emotional story against the enormous backdrop of the Russian
Bolshevik Revolution.
Omar Sharif stars in the title role of Doctor Zhivago, portraying the surgeon-poet over a half-century period.
Zhivago, who is married to Tonya (Geraldine Chaplin), an aristocratic girl with whom he raises a family, is
also in love with Lara (Julie Christie), a nurse whose life has been destroyed by tragedy. Repeatedly
brought together and separated from each woman by war and revolution, Zhivago is torn apart by conflict.
He loves Tonya deeply but his poetic soul belongs to Lara. Much like his beloved country, Zhivago’s spirit
becomes battered by the devastation of war as he struggles to maintain his individualism in the face of
overwhelming odds.
Special Features:
Doctor Zhivago: A Celebration Part 1 & 2 (all-new production)
Additional Special Features:
Commentary by Omar Sharif, Rod Steiger and Lady Sandra Lean Iwife of David Lean) Part 1 & 2
Introduction by Omar Sharif
Doctor Zhivago: The Making of a Russian Epic
11 Vintage Featurettes
Zhivago: Behind the Camera with David Lean
David Lean's Film of Doctor Zhivago
Moscow in Madrid
Pasternak
New York Press Interviews Omar Sharif
New York Press Interviews Julie Christie
Geraldine Chaplin Screen Test
This is Omar Sharif
This is Julie Christie
This is Geraldine Chaplin
Chaplin in New York
The 40th Anniversary release of Doctor Zhivago on DVD/Blu-ray and will also be made available On Demand and
For Download (via iTunes) starting next Tuesday May 4th.
The official Doctor Zhivago Movie homepage is found at http://bit.ly/ADS_DrZhivago
where you can obtain more information on the release and where to purchase the film on their preferred format
(Blu-Ray, DVD, On Demand and For Download).
See a clip from the classic film, here:
http://www.youtube.com/user/warnerbrosonline?blend=1&ob=4#p/search/0/thzpB6FyR6M
REVIEW
This anniversary edition of DOCTOR ZHIVAGO is truly awesome. The extras features put the story into perspective and
illustrates the painstaking care taken to bring this story to film. Author Boris Pasternak witnessed the savagry of
Russia's history and while he was admired for telling his story, Russia refused to publish the novel. First published
in Italy, it soon was published in many languages and became a true classic.
When I was a kid, I had a crush on Omar Sharif. What a tremendous actor, not only in Doctor Zhivago, but in Lawrence
of Arabia and others.
David Lean's concentration to detail is amazing. Listening to the costume director talk about making the costumes and
dealing with the tremendous changes throughout the movie, going from winter to summer throughout the course of making
the film.
THis movie is a wonderful addition to anyone's movie collection. It not only is a movie classic, but it is a piece of
history that everyone should watch.
SATURDAY MORNING CARTOONS 1980's Vol. 1
Release date: May 4, 2010
Official website:
This two-disc set has 11 cartoons and one extra feature for a total of over four hours running time.
The extra “Lords of Light! Thundarr the Barbarian” will “explore the animated origins of this timeless
hero”. The set will be available for sale on May 4.
REVIEW
I love cartoons, and I love these cartoons even though some of them are unfamiliar to me. In the 80s, I was doing
something else on Saturday morning - not watching cartoons. However, I find this collection of cartoons from the
1980s a wonderful resource of material -- not only did I enjoy watching them but it made me curious about watching
more from that timeframe. I loved the Chuck Norris and Thundarr the Barbarian. The sense of right and wrong come through the
stories, much like the cartoons of my time. Thundarr was more for a different age group, but I found the Flintstone
Kids was great fun.
I'm sure I am not alone as parents look for cartoons they grew up with that they can share with their kids. This
is another collection that you can both watch and enjoy.
STEEL
Available: April 7, 2010
Synopsis
Basketball superstar Shaquille O'Neal ("Kazaan") sheds his hi-tops for a dazzling suit of battle armor
as the latest and greatest DC Comics superhero to wage war on crime. When evil scientist Judd Nelson
("Jay and Silent Bob Strike Back," "The Breakfast Club") begins selling top-secret weapons to LA's
street gangs, former military researcher Shaq joins forces with a brilliant electronics expert to
build an invincible suit of armor. Layered in his magnetic metal sheath and armed with his own hi-tech
weaponry, Shaq transforms into his mythic alter-ego, "Steel." From a secret command center, Steel sets
out on a high-powered silver motorcycle to confront Nelson and rid the city of crime. Co-starring
Annabeth Gish ("Double Jeopardy," "Nixon") and the original urban crime-fighter, Richard Roundtree
("Shaft," "Seven"). Directed by multiple Emmy-winner Kenneth Johnson (TV's "Incredible Hulk," TV's
"V"). Produced by Oscar, Emmy and Grammy-winning producer/composer/performer, Quincy Jones.
REVIEW
STEEL, while never going to be nominated for an Oscar, was enjoyable watching. Shaquille O'Neal is great
as an ex-Army officer that decides to clean up his neighborhood when a colleague, Judd Nelson, goes power
mad and starts robbing banks and the Federal Reserve. Richard Roundtree is wonderful as Shaq's uncle and
Annabeth Gish portrays a crippled partner Shaq helps deal with her disability as she helps him develop
weapons to combat the bad guys. If you look hard, you will notice Hill Harper (CSI:New York) as one of
the main young gang leaders -- all that gold! The music, by Quincy Jones, adds considerably to the movie.
This was an enjoyable movie to watch -- the bad guys loose and the good guys win.
THE AMAZING CAPTAIN NEMO
Available: April 6, 2010
Synopsis
From hit making producer Irwin Allen (The Poseidon Adventure, The Towering Inferno) comes the triumphant
return of the greatest adventurer of all (by way of Jules Verne)! Awakened from a 100-year cryogenic freeze,
the legendary Captain Nemo (Academy Award® winner* Jose Ferrer) pursues a mad scientist (Burgess Meredith)
who threatens to destroy Washington unless he’s paid a billion dollars in gold. Co-written by Psycho’s
Robert Bloch, The Amazing Captain Nemo was originally conceived as a three-part pilot for a weekly TV
series. Combining action, heroics and Emmy®-nominated special effects, The Amazing Captain Nemo is
seagoing action and excitement that’s simply under-and-out of this world!
REVIEW
Jules Verne was the master of adventure stories and no one does underwater adventure like Irwin Allen.
This DVD blends the two wonderfully and will take you back to the days when VOYAGE TO THE BOTTOM OF THE
SEA ruled the airwaves! This movie has a wonderful cast: Burgess Meredith, Burr Debenning, Jose Ferrer,
Linda Day George, Mel Ferrer, Tom Hallick. It will probably feel more like a series pilot than a movie.
the ending sequence has Nemo and crew going off to further adventures.
Synopsis:
What does Nelson Mandela do after becoming president of South Africa? He rejects revenge, forgives oppressors who
jailed him 27 years for his fight against apartheid and finds hope of national unity in an unlikely place: the rugby
field. Clint Eastwood (named 2009's Best Director by the National Board of Review) directs an uplifting film about
a team and a people inspired to greatness. Morgan Freeman (NBR's Best Actor Award winner and Oscar nominee for this
role) is Mandela, who asks the national rugby team captain (Best Supporting Actor Oscar nominee Matt Damon) and his
squad.
REVIEW
You have to see this movie!!!! It is truly outstanding.
This film brings together two top-notch actors -- Morgan Freeman and Matt Damon. They have been in countless
features from Driving Miss Daisy to Robin Hood; from Goodwill Hunting to the Bourne series. How can you make it
better? Have Clint Eastwood there to tell the story -- directing the action as no other director can.
Nominated for two Academy Awards -- Best Actor - Morgan Freeman; Best Supporting Actor - Matt Damon.
While this is primarily a sports movie, the over-arching story is about overcoming obstacles within South
Africa after apartheid. A rugby team that had been the laughing stock of the country, becomes a winner and
has the entire country rooting for it during the World Cup -- both black and white.
This movie is masterfully told, bringing you into the lives of South Africans, showing the apprehension to the
new government and obstacles Mandela faced as he took over the government. The pictures of the shanty towns in
Cape Town are real (I saw them during my visit there) and you wonder how people can live under those conditions.
The message of hope and forgiveness is strong.
Nelson Mandela: I thank whatever gods may be / For my unconquerable soul. / I am the master of my fate / I am
the captain of my soul.
Synopsis:
The bullet that killed his daughter was meant for Boston cop Thomas Craven. That's what police brass and
Craven himself think, but that's not what the investigation finds. Clue after clue and witness after
witness, the search leads him into a shadowy realm where money and political intrigue intersect. If
Craven wasn't a target before, he and anyone linked to his inquiry now is. Mel Gibson stars in his first
screen lead in eight years, making Craven's grief palpable and his quest for payback stone-cold and
relentless. Martin Campbell (Casino Royale) directs from a screenplay co-written by The Departed's
William Monahan. Gibson is back, taking us to the edge and into the sinister darkness.
REVIEW
If you are looking for a tight, suspenseful thriller, EDGE OF DARKNESS may be for you. While there is a good
bit of violence, there is also a good story supporting all actions taken. Gibson is right on as the vengeful
father seeing justice for his slain daughter. You see him struggle with his desire for vengence while trying
to honor the sense of justice he has lived by all his life. You feel his anger, rage, sorrow and you hope
that in the end the bad guys get their due.
Director Martin Campbell keeps things moving through the Boston locale, with a nice mix of action and
introspective moments between Craven and his daughter. The flashbacks add depth to the drama, and more
meaning to the relationship between father and daughter.
Synopsis:
David Tennant and Patrick Stewart star in this critically acclaimed production of Shakespeare’s masterpiece
from Britain’s renowned Royal Shakespeare Company. No recent stage production in Britain has attracted the
excitement and nearly unanimous critical praise as this Hamlet. Tennant's interpretation was recognized as
defining the role for a generation, and Stewart’s complex Claudius won the Olivier award, Britain’s highest
stage honor. In this specially-shot screen version, filmed on location rather than in the theater, Tennant
and Stewart reprise their roles. Dynamic, exciting and contemporary, it breathes new life into Shakespeare's
greatest play.
Featured Actors: David Tennant (Doctor Who), Patrick Stewart (X-Men, Star Trek: The Next Generation), Oliver
Ford Davis (Waking the Dead), Penny Downie, Mariah Gale
REVIEW
This is a modern production of the play by Shakespeare. I can't remember if I have ever really sat through
the play before, but I did yesterday. THe Royal Shakespeare Company is marvelous, and I kept thinking of what
we have done to the English language over the years. Patric Stewart is marvelous as Claudius and the ghost;
David Tennant shows tremendous range as he runs the emotional gamut of love, pain, comedy, sorry and shock.
While we have seen this plot played out in many different ways over the years, this production has it all.
Prince Hamlet of Denmark learns that his father's death was not an accident, but murder so that his uncle could
marry his mother and become King. The ghost of his father tells Hamlet of this as he wanders the dark halls
of the castle at midnight. Poor Hamlet is torn in his indecision about how to handle the situation.
This is indeed a memorable production. With this cast and modern dress, it could be just the one you will sit
through.
REVIEW
This is a marvelous look at the undersea life of the Great Barrier Reef and the underwater life near Papua New Guinea.
Narrated by Jim Carrey, he infuses a bit of humor with the stunning photography contained in this video. Howard Hall
has done an amazing job of bringing absolutely breath taking images to us from these distant locals. Not only has he
taken us below the sea, but swimming with sharks and whales! You also go behind the scenes to see what it takes to make
an IMAX movie. This huge camera captures video in just three minute segments. Can you imagine how much time it took to
shoot this 40 minute video! Amazing!
Having just celebrated Earth Day, you can appreciate this movie even more. THe impact mankind is having on the oceans
and the creatures that live there is astounding.
This is a wonderful video for people of all ages.
Synopsis:
This April, the BBC releases a chilling reinvention of the unforgettable post-apocalyptic 1970’s series -
Survivors - in the 5-disc DVD set, Survivors: Complete Seasons One and Two. Written by BAFTA Award-winner
Adrian Hodges (Primeval) and premiering on BBC AMERICA February 13, Survivors is based on Terry Nation’s
thrilling novel about a deadly virus that has swept across the world, destroying all but a random selection
of desperate souls. Still alive when so many have died, these “lucky ones” must step into a new world where
everything that was once safe and familiar is now strange and dangerous. In the ghost cities and empty fields,
power, water and food supplies are scarce. Just to stay alive they will have to band together, utilize their
talents and learn new skills as they rebuild civilization. But can they all be trusted?
Survivors: Complete Seasons One and Two features all 12 episodes, filmed in high definition, of the engrossing
BBC AMERICA series along with extensive bonus materials including a making-of featurette, character profiles
and an Easter Egg. Additionally, on the same date, the BBC will release the original 1970’s version, Survivors:
The Complete Original Series. The 6-disc set will include all 38 original episodes along with the featurette
“The Cult of Survivors,” photo galleries and a personal collection of Lucy Fleming’s photographs.
REVIEW
The original SURVIVOR series, broadcast by the BBC between 1975 and 1977 was one of the most popular series of all time.
Terry Nation does a wonderful job of developing his characters so that you learn a little about them each episode.
In the original series, you follow a few individuals that survived a deadly disease that struck the world with swiftly
and without warning. This is the chilling story of some of those who survive -- Jenny, Greg, Abby and others -- determined
to construct a new community from the surrounding wasteland where the technology and skills of the old life have become
obsolete.
The focus of the series lands on three main characters. Abby Grant, a very middle class mother, who is played by
Carolyn Seymour. Ian McCulloch plays Greg Preston, a Civil Engineer and someone who seems to find some sense of
purpose in an otherwise unfulfilled life after the coming of the "death". Lucy Fleming's Jenny Richards is written
very variably from occasionally being utterly wet to eventually becoming something of an action heroine towards the
end of the show.
GILMORE GIRLS - HD
The wity and sassy Gilmore Girls are back in HD! The beloved Gilmore Girls: The Complete Series makes its long-awaited debut this week For Download on iTunes with Seasons 3-7 available for the first time ever on any format in HD. Now the series can be re-experienced anywhere and any time from a computer, iPhone, iPad, and more – perfect for the sassy fan!
Synopsis:
It's New Year?s Eve on the Poseidon. Partying voyagers toast the future. The future comes in a rush: a 150-
foot rogue wave flips the cruise ship over?and a struggle to survive begins. Director Wolfgang Petersen
(The Perfect Storm) returns to the sea with a thrill-packed, cutting-edge screen adaptation of Paul Gallico's
novel The Poseidon Adventure. Josh Lucas, Kurt Russell, Richard Dreyfuss, Emmy Rossum and more play passengers
who must rely on each other as they seek safety through the water, flames and wreckage of an upside-down world.
REVIEW
The special effects are the real stars of this movie. Wolfgang Peterson has pulled together a wonderful remake of
the 1972 disaster movie THE POSEIDON ADVENTURE. However, this version is far more spectacular, with shocking digital
effects, massive sets, amazing stunt-work and enough fire and water to fill five movies with challenging worst-case
scenarios. A small group of survivors (including Josh Lucas, Kurt Russell, Emmy Rossum, and Richard Dreyfuss) begin
their long climb climb upwards, to the ship's hull, in their treacherous quest for a safe exit. Unfortunately, not a
lot of time was spent on character development for any of the principal characters. You are fed bits and pieces here
and there, but you don't get close to any of them. However Petersen's handling of non-stop action is so slick and
professional that you can't wait to see what obstacle will be put in front of the survivors next! The capsizing
scenes are nothing less than awesome, with some effects so real (and so horrifying) that younger and more sensitive
viewers may need to look away. Even without getting involved with a character, POSEIDON is certainly never boring.
FREE WILLY: ESCAPE FROM PIRATE'S COVE
Starring: Bindi Irwin, Beau Bridges Director: Will Geiger Rating: PG (Parental Guidance Suggested)r>
SYNOPSIS:
Young Kirra (Bindi Irwin, daughter of the Crocodile Hunter and star of Bindi the Jungle Girl),
leaves her Australian home to summer with her grandfather (Beau Bridges) in South Africa. Soon
she discovers a baby orca stranded in the lagoon near her grandfather's rundown seaside amusement
park. She names her new friend Willy - and embarks on a great quest to lead the whale back to
his pod before her grandfather's greedy rival turns Willy into a money-making attraction at his
slick theme park.
REVIEW
FREE WILLY has been a favorite movie of mine for years. I've watched all of the series so this one
was also a must-see. Bindi Irwin is quite a talented young lady. She is quite natural in the role.
Beau Bridges is marvelous as the cranky grandfather who runs an amusement park in South Africa
and becomes the home for Kirra when her father is injured and unable to take care of her for the
summer. Enter Grandpa Beau Bridges. Kirra eventually gets over being sent away and finds her
Grandfather's amusement park a wonderful place for the summer. When Willy wanders into the cove
during a storm, he quickly becomes a money-maker for Grandpa Gus and the money they make they use
to fix up the aging amusement park.
As Willy gets familiar with everyone and Kirra begins to feed the little Orca, Gus startings
marketing Willy -- t-shirts, stuffed animals, the works. The money bearly covers the fish bill
though. As Willy gets bigger, the cove gets smaller and Gus doesn't now how Willy will survive.
Enter the villain -- a competing amusement park owner. He wants to buy Willy and build an
aquarium around him. While Gus doesn't want to sell Willy, he also knows that he can't continue
to feed him as he gets bigger. The new aquarium would offer Willy a number of advantages -- a
new trailer, steady diet, but not the people he loves.
In order to save Willy, Kirra sets out to find Willy's whale pod and hopes to return him to his
family.
All in all, this is a very enjoyable movie; something to watch with your kids on a rainy
afternoon - or quiet evening.
THE PRISONER
Key Actors: Jim Caviezel, Ian McKellen, Ruth Wilson, Jamie Campbell-Bower, Hayley Atwell, Lennie James
Release date: April 6, 2010
Synopsis:
The Prisoner miniseries is a reinterpretation of the British 1960s cult hit series that starred and was co-created by Patrick McGoohan. The Premise : A man, known as Six, finds himself inexplicably trapped in The Village with no memory of how he arrived. As he explores his environment, he discovers that his fellow inhabitants are identified by number instead of name, have no memory of any prior existence, and are under constant surveillance. Not knowing whom to trust, Six is driven by the need to discover the truth behind The Village, the reason for his being there, and most importantly -- how he can escape. Jim Caviezel (The Passion of the Christ, The Thin Red Line) plays the role of Six; and two-time Oscar nominee Ian McKellen (Lord of the Rings, The Da Vinci Code) co-stars as Two.
Here is something unusual for you to consider. The all-new Warner Archive release of Ripley’s
Believe It Or Not; the 2-Disc DVD set contains all 24 theatrical shorts circa 1930-1932 starring
Mr. Ripley as your host through the world of “Believe It or Not”.
The collection is being made available for the first time ever on DVD by the Warner Archive starting
March
.
REVIEW
Everyone knows of Ripley's Believe it or Not, but I wonder how many have actually seen any of the
episodes from the show. This recent release not only has Robert Ripley stalking about unbelievable
things -- but showing you them through his drawings. As a cartoonist, Ripley also would draw to
illustrate the item he was talking about. These new videos were part of the regular cinema
entertainment prior to a major feature. Made in the 1930s, they were both entertaining and
informative.
Synopsis:
The filmmakers behind The Matrix and V for Vendetta bring new blood to martial arts movies in this smashing
adventure. Korean pop star Rain plays heroic, deadly Raizo. Trained from childhood in the way of the Ozunu
Clan ninja, he is stalked by fellow warriors and their dojo patriarch (martial arts legend Sho Kosugi)…and
is on the run with a Europol agent (Naomie Harris) who has proof the clan sells assassination services to
governments.
REVIEW
From the first opening sequence, with body parts and blood flying around the screen, you know that
this is going to be an energetic movie about children taught to be assassins -- assassins like
no other - Ninjas! Ninjas, an order of ancient warriors, move like ghosts, coming into a room
like whisps of smoke!
I can see where men (age group 18-28) would love this movie. Rain does a wonderful job as
Raizo -- a ninja that breaks with his clan and defends a researcher who is looking into ninja and
the nine clans represented. The final battle between Raizo and martial arts legend Sho Kosugi
is outstanding.
THE BROTHERS WARNER
Release date: March 9, 2010
REVIEW
The producer of this film, Cass Warner, is actually the granddaughter of Harry Warner, one of the four
original Warner Brothers. This documentary focuses on the studio and the story of the four Warner Brothers
themselves, starting back in the 19th century and their ventures into the entertainment industry that
predate the forming of Warner Brothers the company by twenty years. It goes forward past the time that
they exited the running of Warner Brothers the company and talks about the lives of the brothers themselves.
Although there were real problems between the brothers in their own private lives, they were devoted to
making movies. This is a very fascinating documentary for those interested in film history. Given
Warner Bros. place in the movie industry today, it gives a different perspective on the movie industry
from the early days through today.
THE BLIND SIDE
Release date: March 23, 2010
Blu-ray Combo Pack, DVD and Download, at http://bit.ly/blfduZ
THE BLIND SIDE is a 2009 American drama–sports film written and directed by John Lee Hancock, and based on the 2006 book
THE BLIND SIDE: EVOLUTION OF A GAME by Michael Lewis.[2][3] The storyline features Michael Oher, an offensive lineman who
plays for the Baltimore Ravens of the NFL. The film follows Oher from his impoverished upbringing, through his years at
Wingate Christian School (a fictional representation of Briarcrest Christian School in suburban Memphis, Tennessee[4]),
his adoption by Sean and Leigh Anne Tuohy, and on to his position as one of the most highly coveted prospects in college
football. For her performance, Sandra Bullock won the Golden Globe Award for Best Actress and a Screen Actors Guild Award
for Outstanding Performance by a Female Actor in a Leading Role as well as an Academy Award for Best Actress. The film
itself also received an Academy Award for Best Picture nomination.
The film stars Quinton Aaron as Michael Oher, Sandra Bullock as Leigh Anne Tuohy, Tim McGraw as Sean Tuohy, Oher's adoptive
parents, and Kathy Bates as Miss Sue, Oher's tutor. The movie also features appearances by several current and former NCAA
coaches, including SEC coaches Houston Nutt and Ed Orgeron (Oher's coaches in college, though Nutt represented Arkansas at
the time and therefore does so in the film) and Nick Saban (who was at LSU at the time and represents them in the film),
former coaches Lou Holtz, Tommy Tuberville, Phillip Fulmer, as well as recruiting analyst Tom Lemming.
REVIEW
If you are looking for a feel-good movie to watch with the whole family, check out THE BLIND SIDE. This heart-warming
story teaches a number of lessons -- sharing, kindness, family! Sandra Bullock is awesome as Leigh Anne Tuohy, a Memphis
Mom who takes in "Big Mike", a lumbering black youth who had no family but a big heart and a desire to belong somewhere.
Along with his big size, he could play sports. The Tuohys took him in, opened up their hearts and home to him.
This is a wonderful, true story -- meant to be shared.
TOM AND JERRY'S GREATEST CHASES, VOLUME 4
Warner Home Video - 98 min - Region: 1 (USA & territories, Canada)
REVIEW
Parents rejoice! Another Tom & Jerry DVD is available for you and your children to enjoy!
Since the 1940s, Tom and Jerry have provided cat and mouse antics for all ages. What kid hasn't
enjoyed these characters created by William Hanna and Joseph Barbera? I enjoyed them when I was
a kid; now my nieces & nephews and their children are enjoying these videos. The other advantage
is that they are short, so they will hold the attention of the smallest children. The giggles that
come from the room when I put on this DVD is pure pleasure talking!
Among some of my favorite shorts in this collection are:
"Little Quacker" (1950) and "Just Ducky" (1953), featuring Jerry's little friend duck
"Tom and Chérie" (1955) features Tom, Jerry, and Jerry's assistant Tuffy in the third "Mouseketeer" short
(after "The Two Mouseketeers" (1952) and "Touche', Pussy Cat!" (1954))
"Jerry & Jumbo" (1953) featuring Jerry and his baby elephant friend Jumbo, who fell off a circus train
"Little School Mouse" (1954) entertains the notion of Jerry teaching Tuffy how to outwit cats and ends up
with him needing to learn a thing or two himself
Watching these videos not only harkens back to a different time, but it presents a certain innocence to
cartoons that I still love after after all these years. The only blood you'll see is the ketchup used to
fool Tom into thinking he's bleeding every now and then. Try to find that in today's cartoons!
Be sure to look for Tom and Jerry's Greatest Chases, Volume 4. Share them with those you love -- laugh
together! It's good for your health!
SCARECROW AND MRS. KING - SEASON ONE
Release date: March 22, 2010
It has been a LONG time coming, but this 1983 series has finally come to DVD. The series ran from
October 3, 1983, to May 28, 1987 on CBS. The show starred Kate Jackson and Bruce Boxleitner as divorced
housewife Amanda King and top-level "Agency" operative Lee Stetson who begin a strange association, and
eventual romance, after encountering one another in a subway station.
REVIEW
Has it really been that long ago? I guess time has flown by, but it was still good to see this series
finally hit DVD release. I know a lot of people have been waiting to see it!
This was one of those charming duos that had great chemistry. Bruce Boxleitner and Kate Jackson were
marvelous together. Mrs. King was always getting embroiled in one adventure after another. It was comical
watching her try to balance between her family and the "spy" business.
I think this DVD -- and the entire series -- will be a great addition to my library. There are a number of
episodes I'll want to watch over and over again. The relationship between Lee Stetson and Mrs. King will
remind you somewhat of other old classics -- Beauty and the Beast, for one!
ALICE IN WONDERLAND
Available on DVD: March 2, 2010
Official Site URL: www.bbcamericashop.com
Synopsis:
Fans of the upcoming ALICE IN WONDERLAND film starring Johnny Depp will revel in this surreal, gothic
version of the Lewis Carroll fantasy directed by Jonathan Miller. Miller’s masterpiece was filmed for
the BBC in 1966 and stars acting legends Peter Sellers, John Gielgud, Michael Redgrave, Peter Cook and
Leo McKern, with dreamlike music written and performed by Ravi Shankar. In this Alice, an enigmatic
young girl wanders through a Victorian landscape populated by the most bizarre and astonishing characters.
Alice gently questions each one in turn, subtly mocking their middle-class English values. Packed with
extras from the BBC vault, this Alice in Wonderland is a feast for the imagination!
SCOOBY-DOO! ABRACADABRA-DOO
Release date: February 18, 2010
Official website: www.abracadabradoo.com
Synopsis:
In this brand-new adventure, Scooby-Doo and the Mystery Inc. gang set out on a trip to visit Daphne’s sister Madelyn,
who has been studying magic at the Whirlen Merlin Magic Academy. However, when the gang arrives, they learn that the
school has been troubled with strange disturbances. Many of its students have fled after reporting sightings of a
giant Gryphon that’s frightened them. The gang smells trouble and sets out to investigate.
CLINT EASTWOOD: 35 FILMS 35 YEARS
There are few actors or movie makers with the staying power of Clint Eastwood. He is a master storyteller
and one of the few actors who have made the transition to director successfully -- while continuing to
act. Here is a wonderful documentary that chronicles Clint Eastwood's 35 years at Warner Bros. They have
made so many classics together -- from Dirty Harry to The Changeling. You will go behind the scenes as
films are made and be given a peek at the complex personality of Clint Eastwood.
REVIEW
Clint Eastwood is a tremendous story teller. He has proven time and time again that he knows what stories to bring to
life on the big screen. In this collection, you will share some special moments with Clint Eastwood -- watch him play
piano, talk about some of his movies and watch him work as he directs some of his greatest movies. Even if you don't
like Clint Eastwood, this collection of work is impressive in its breadth of subject matter. You go from Dirty Harry
to Million Dollar Baby. The emotion that comes across the screen is unlike any other. "Do you feel lucky?" "Make My
Day." These are just a few of the superb lines he delivers -- as only Clint Eastwood could. Go back in time a bit to
relive the emergence of Eastwood as Harry Callaghan. See if one of your favorites is included in the mix!
NEW FAMILY DVDS
Looking for movies you can watch with your children? I have moved many of the
family-oriented DVDs to a
Family DVDs page. Here you will find wonderful DVDs you can enjoy with your entire
family -- no matter the age. You will find background information about the DVD, but there
are clips as well from Warner Bros. Enjoy!
BABYLON 5 MUSIC VIDEOS AND TRIBUTES
I found this message on the Babylon 5 moderated newsgroup this morning and just
had to post it so that others might enjoy the marvelous music videos created by
John Hudgens.
+++++++++++++++++++++++++
As some of you may know, I was hired by Joe Straczynski back in the
day to create Babylon 5 music videos for him to use at science fiction
conventions, and later to promote the show to networks. Eight were
produced over the run of the series, not including the memorial videos
I did later for Rick Biggs and Andreas Katsulas.
For the longest time, the only way to see these was if Joe or I showed
them at a convention, but now, after numerous requests from fans over
the years, Joe has given me permission me to post these online.
- This is the extended version that I did for Andreas' widow ater the
original cut was released on the net. It's never been seen online
until now.
For those of you who've never seen these, I hope you enjoy them - and
for those that have (and emailed me many times over the years about
releasing them), I hope they're as good as you remember. Working with
Joe on these videos was one of the highlights of my career, and I'll
be forever grateful to him for the doors these have opened for me. I'm
proud to have them on my resume.
John Hudgens
www.zteamproductions.com
THE BRAVE AND THE BOLD #29
Written by J. Michael Straczynski, art and cover by Jesus Saiz.
A thing that lives...and fights for its soul! The shambling walking doll that is
Brother Power, the Geek has been reborn in Gotham City without a home or purpose!
Could destiny have something in store for this seemingly lost relic? And why does
his appearance cut into Batman's.
32 pages, $2.99, in stores on Nov. 18.
RED CIRCLE: THE HANGMAN #1
Written by J. Michael Straczynski; Art by Tom Derenick and Bill Sienkiewicz; Cover
by Jesus Saiz.
J. Michael Straczynski dives into the DC Universe, bringing four of the finest
heroes of the Golden and Silver Ages with him! Completely reimagined for the modern
world from their original appearances in Archie/MLJ publications, these four heroes
will show you a side of the DC Universe you've never seen before! The Civil War
claimed many lives…but one of those lives still hasn't ended! Union doctor Robert
Dickering found himself on the wrong side of the battle lines, and despite his heroic
treatment of a fallen enemy soldier, he also found himself on the wrong end of a
noose! But a shadowy power stepped forth in the twilight moments between life and
death and offered him a deal he couldn't refuse: to forever roam the Earth, saving
the lives of innocents condemned like himself – or hastening the deaths of the guilty!
But in taking the seemingly righteous mission of the Hangman, has he accepted God's
work? Or has he become the vengeful fist of the Devil himself?
WIZARD WORLD'S PHILADELPHIA COMIC CON
Site: Philadelphia Convention Center
Date: June 11-12-13, 2010
Guests: Linda Hamilton, William Shatner, Adam West, Bruce Campbell, James Marsters, Tia Carrere Among
Celebrity Guests; Leading Comics Artists, Creative Directors and More than 150 Pop Culture Icons to
Attend!
For more information, go to http://www.wizardworld.com/
SHORE LEAVE 32
Place: Baltimore, MD
Time: July 9-11, 2010
Site: Marriott's Hunt Valley Inn
Guests: Edward James Olmos, Katee Sackhoff, Torri Higginson, Kevin Sorbo, Catherine Hicks,
Dominic Keating, Bill Dow
For more information, go to http://www.shore-leave.com/
STEEL CITY CON
Place: Monroeville Convention Center (near Pittsburgh, PA)
August 6, 7 and 8, 2010
Guests: Jake Lloyd (Anakin Skywalker), Micky Dolenz (Monkees), David Faustino (Married With Children),
more guests to follow
For more information, go to http://www.steelcitycon.com/
SPECIAL ANNOUNCEMENTS! Creation Entertainment has a large number of
conventions planned for the next several months. They include stars from TWILIGHT,
SUPERNATURAL, STARGATE, FARSCAPE, XENA, SERENITY, STAR TREK, etc. Check out their
calendar to see if one will be in your neighborhood soon. Don't miss their
Videos page as well. It is
full of some priceless video from a number of conventions.
Be sure to visit the referenced sites to see if there have been changes in
dates/guests attending. Visit our Convention Calendar
for a full listing of upcoming conventions.
BACK ISSUES OF THE ZOCALO TODAY
The front page of the The Zocalo Today changes daily, so be sure to check the
back issues to make sure that you haven't missed anything IMPORTANT! I don't want the front page getting too
long so I shift information periodically into the archives. So if you aren't a regular visitor to The Zocalo Today, be sure
to check out the back issues. Just use the button above!
Take care and I look forward to hearing from you. Sandra Bruckner (sgbruckner@aol.com)
Editor/Publisher
ISN News: The Zocalo Today
http://www.isnnews.net
Copyright - SBruckner, 1999-2010
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WEEKEND BOX OFFICE
LOST FINALE SUNDAY
A GAME OF THRONES
THE COLONY
J. MICHAEL STRACZYNSKI IN SANTA ANA ON SATURDAY
Want to expand your BluRay library? Warner Bros. Home Entertainment has a special offer for you..jpg)
THE AMAZING CAPTAIN NEMO
INVICTUS
EDGE OF DARKNESS
UNDER THE SEA
GILMORE GIRLS - HD
POSEIDON
FREE WILLY: ESCAPE FROM PIRATE'S COVE
RIPLEY'S BELIEVE IT OR NOT
NINJA ASSASSIN
TOM AND JERRY'S GREATEST CHASES, VOLUME 4
THE BRAVE AND THE BOLD #29
RED CIRCLE: THE HANGMAN #1 