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

Welcome and thank you for dropping by. Babylon 5 brought many of us together -- and it remains with us, despite the fact that is no longer in production. The good thing is that the internet gives a LOT of ways to stay in touch. Don't be shy. Join in the discussion today or drop by my blog! You can also find me on FaceBook and Twitter.

If you have questions, drop me a line at sgbruckner@aol.com. I have a for our newsletter, send me a note and I'll include you on the list. Or you can use the subscription block at the left.

Again, WELCOME!

Glitter News




SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 26, 2009

V V SCHEDULE CHANGE
Yesterday, ABC confirmed to the LA Times that "V" will premiere on Tuesday, Nov. 3 as scheduled, but after the first four installments are aired, it will go on hiatus. The Winter Olympics is being carried by ABC and will dominate the schedule. ABC keeps touting the revamp of the '80s miniseries as an "event" and plans to relaunch sometime after the gold medals are handed out.
The first three episodes of the 13-episode order have been shot, with the fourth one shooting in mid-October. Then, hiatus. An official relaunch date has not been announced.

STARGATE UNIVERSE EXTENDED PREVIEW
Syfy has made available an extended preview of their new series, STARGATE UNIVERSE. There is tons of information about the series already over at http://video.syfy.com/shows/universe including video interviews with major cast members.

SERIES CHANGES
THE CLEANER
According to the Hollywood Reporter, A&E Network has confirmed cancellation of THE CLEANER starring Benjamin Bratt. The show's 13-episode second season concluded earlier this month.

LAW & ORDER: CRIMINAL INTENT
The USA Network confirmed yesterday that Vincent D'Onofrio will leave the series at the beginning of the show's upcoming ninth season. According to "Law & Order" creator/executive p roducer Dick Wolf, D'Onofrio will appear in a two-part opener of season nine that will serve as his hand-off to Jeff Goldblum. D'Onofrio has been with the show since it's beginning as Detective Robert Goren. According to the Hollywood Reporter, D'Onofrio's departure is part of a major casting overhaul on "CI" next season. He is one of four regulars on the show, along with Kathryn Erbe, Eric Bogosian and Julianne Nicholson, leaving. New mom Nicholson is being replaced by Saffron Burrows.

THE BOOK OF ELI
Here is an interesting clip for you to look at http://www.movieweb.com/video/VIaV8ebfLnl3db. The BOOK OF ELI is another in a long line of movies about the aftermath of an apocolypse. Denzel Washington and Gary Oldman are awesome actors and this movie looks like a wonderful medium for both of them. The movie opens in January.

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.


On The Tube




8:00pm on CBS
CSI: Crime Scene Investigation-Episode: Young Man With a Horn (First Aired: December 04, 2008)
A popular young singer is found dead outside an infamous Las Vegas nightclub, leading the CSI team to uncover a link between that crime and a murder 50 years earlier.

8:00pm on BBC America
Robin Hood-Episode: Cause and Effect (First Aired: September 19, 2009)
The sheriff sells the local village men to Irish warriors; a village girl tries to rescue her brother, but her heroics have devastating consequences.

9:00pm on CBS
The Good Wife-Episode: Pilot (First Aired: September 22, 2009)
Humiliated by her politician husband's scandal, Alicia Florrick musters her resilience and returns to work as a defense attorney, getting the case of a woman accused of murdering her ex-husband.

9:00pm on BBC America
Robin Hood-Episode: Lost in Translation (NEW)
The sheriff forces the abbot to accuse Robin of stealing from the church; Tuck attempts to clear Robin's name.

9:00pm on Syfy
Children of the Corn(2009)
A couple encounters murderous children in a rural community. Based on a story by Stephen King. Kandyse McClure, David Anders, Daniel Newman, Preston Bailey, Donald P. Borchers

J. Michael Straczynski

NEWS FROM JMS

Here's the latest from the B5 moderated newsgroup:

Two quick items....
Tomorrow my first issue of The Brave and the Bold appears from DC. I haven't said too much about this book because a) I wanted to make sure there was a good sized backlog so it'd stay on schedule and b) until it was closer to the debut. What's cool about this series -- which is in answer to folks who asked, of all the books I could've done at DC, why TB&B, which isn't normally in the top sellers -- is that it lets me put together characters from anywhere I want in the DC universe into stories that have a complex moral center to them.

Each of the issues are stand-alones, and have some of the best stuff I've done in comics lately. The first issue features Batman and Dial H for HERO in a story about self-sacrifice; the second features the (Barry Allen) Flash and the Blackhawks in a tale that asks "when, if ever, is it right to kill?"; the third is (believe it or not) with Batman and Brother Power the Geek (I'm not going to say much more about it than that, except that it's my favorite of the first bunch); and the one after that features Green Lantern and Dr. Fate in a story that pits life and death against the question of free will vs. determinism (not something you generally see in a comic).

So I'd love it if folks could spread the word to swing by their comics shops tomorrow and pick up an issue. If you liked the kinds of moral and ethical stories we did in B5, I think you'll like what we're doing with B&B.

That said...a bit of news. In addition to the feature work, I now have a mainstream prime-time drama series in development with one of the Big Four broadcast networks. Not cable, not syndication, one of the Big Four. (I can't say which yet, pending an announcement.) The pilot script will be turned in by year's end, and after that they'll decide if they want to shoot it. As noted, it's primarily mainstream with a touch of genre to it, and it should be a lot of fun.

As for those who've asked when we might see the Crusade script books...keep watching the skies...there's something moving up there.

For more information on the BRAVE AND THE BOLD, go to http://dcu.blog.dccomics.com/2009/09/15/step-into-j-michael-straczynskis-brave-and-the-bold/ for a review and a look at a few pages from the latest book, on newstands now.

SPIDER & JEANNE ROBINSON NEED HELP

Earlier this year Jeanne Robinson (co-author of the Hugo & Nebula Award-winning STARDANCE trilogy and wife of Spider Robinson) underwent surgery for a rare and virulent form of cancer. The therapies she needs are expensive and not covered by Canada's health system.
There are several ways you can help, from donating items to be auctioned off to a direct donation to simply buying books from the links on Spider's website. Please check out Jeanne's request for help at Stardance : : The Official Movie Blog and help spread the word and give if you can.

There are about 10 items there now, including music from Janis Ian and Books from Vonda McIntyre and Diana Gaabaldon and numerous handmade items. Go to http://cgi.ebay.com/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&item=110433937483&ssPageName=STRK:MESELX:IT for the Ellison dinner. For other items being auctioned off for this special cause, go to http://shop.ebay.com/dreamforjeanneauctions/m.html?_dmd=1&_ipg=50&_sop=12&_rdc=1.

DISCUSSION TOPIC - SERIES RETURN - NEW SEASON BEGINS

Well it has started -- finally. The new season for many of the regular series began this week -- at least on Fox and The CW. Bones, Fringe and Supernatural were back with new episodes. It has been a LONG summer and I have been waiting for FRINGE's return with great anticipation. The premiere episode did not disappoint! This coming week more series will return -- on the regular networks. So we will wait to see if all of the mysteries are solved -- or the story continues to lead you down that road of excitement. What series are you waiting to return? Are there new series coming you can't wait to see? STARGATE UNIVERSE may fall into that category. I'm hoping it will be as good as the original series -- but I have my doubts -- but I am keeping an open mind.

Send in your comments to sgbruckner@aol.com. I'll post your selections our discussion page for all readers to share. I'll post some of my comments in my blog -- see below.

REAL GOOD RADIO HOUR WITH BILL MUMY

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.
Some of the upcoming episodes will focus on:
Masters of the Blues
Pioneers of Folk
Architects of Rock n Roll
Heart of the Country
Bringing it Live
Rock Meets Folk
Classic Crooners
The Roots of Reggae
The Real Good Radio Hour debuts Wednesday, September 16th at 7 pm and can be heard weekly on KSAV.org.

Bill has a new place on FaceBook as well http://www.myspace.com/billmumy

ASKED & ANSWERED: PART 4 - NEW RELEASE DATE: OCTOBER 14

The B5 Books Team is delaying the release of Part 4 of the "Asked & Answered" series from this month to October 14. This is because of an unusually high number of fans catching up with the releases they missed this summer while traveling and vacationing. To let these folks catch up (and to accommodate demand), Part 4 will be released on October 14. Part 5 will now be released November 18. See the entire listing of books at http://www.cafepress.com/b5books.

B5 Podcast

BABYLON PODCAST

Welcome to Show #172!

Tim, Summer and Jeffrey discuss a prop that a fan found on a website, being proclaimed as something “for a small actor’s head”. Jeffrey surmises that since the prop is listed as being foam, he believes that it might have been a cast or mold, rather than the actual head, since all of the real Vorlon heads were fiberglass.

Next, there’s a little discussion about a comment found on the io9 article on inexpensive aliens that still hold up after the years… to Jeffrey’s knowledge, there was not any Vorlon puppet, and he himself was most definitely not attacked by the production crew with hammers.

Interview: Gary Hansen of Lightspeed Fine Art joins us to chat about how his involvement with scifi television and Babylon 5. He’s done art for Star Trek, Star Wars, Stargate, Xena, Hercules, Farscape, BSG, and many more as well.

Gary also tells us about his recent trip to Dragon*Con, and catching up with the B5 cast members, the various portraits, and much more.

Feedback: With this week’s voicemails, we entertain more observations and creative visualizations on alternative “Day of the Dead” scenarios, including better uses of Morden, commentary on Penn & Teller’s performance and impact, and more! Can you imagine Marcus as a piece of wall art in Medlab, encased in carbonite and preserved in stasis until such time medical science can heal him.

To catch up on all the Babylon 5 podcasts, go to http://www.babylonpodcast.com.

Pen

ISN BLOG

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!





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

Pat Tallman - September 4
Cinzia Zanetti - September 5
Robin Atkin Downes - September 6
Mira Furlan - September 7
Walter Koenig - September 14
Paul Williams - September 19
Robert Rusler - September 20
Gary Cole - September 20
Bear Burge - September 23
Jason Carter - September 23
Manny Case - September 23

I love September. It has a number of birthdays for some of my FAVORITE Babylon 5 people, including Patty, Robin, Bear, Jason and Manny. Have I missed anyone? If you know the birthday of someone connected with Babylon 5, pass the information along. We want to include everyone in our Happy Birthday Wishes.

NEW BOOKS YOU MAY BE INTERESTED IN

SG-1 Valhalla STARGATE SG-1: Valhalla
ISBN: 978-1-905586-19-6

We're delighted to announce that our next Stargate SG-1 novel, Valhalla, is now available to purchase from www.stargatenovels.com. Written by Tim Waggoner, a prolific writer of both media tie-in and original fiction, this our first novel to feature a return of Jonas Quinn. Check out more about Tim at www.timwaggoner.com.

SG-Atlantis-Angelus STARGATE ATLANTIS: Angelus

Peter J. Evans debuts at Stargate novels with STARGATE ATLANTIS: Angelus. With their core directive restored, the Asurans are attacking the Wraith.
A mission involving the Apollo, under the command of Colonel Ellis, to observe the battle goes wrong when an Ancient ship appears and delivers Angelus.
But Angelus may not be what he seems...

SG-Atlantis-Nightfall STARGATE ATLANTIS: Nightfall

James Swallow is back with another action-packed Stargate adventure.
Well-known for his Warhammer and Star Trek books, James is also a huge Stargate fan. The theme of his latest book may be deception and lies, but the writing is as true to the characters as only a true fan of the show—and über-author—can get.
James's previous Stargate novels are Stargate SG-1: Relativity and Stargate Atlantis: Halcyon and they have proven hugely popular with our fans.
Now, his latest book, Stargate Atlantis: Nightfall, follows the team as they battle to prevent a plague from spreading from one small planet to the entire Pegasus Galaxy.

SG1-Hydra STARGATE SG-1: Hydra

In Greek mythology, the Hydra was a snake-like water creature with many heads and the ability to shoot venom from its eyes. As if that wasn't bad enough, when you chopped off one of its heads, two more would grow in its place.
The writing duo of Holly Scott and Jaimie Duncan pick up on this myth, delivering a tale that explores humanity's infinite capacity for cruelty, evil—and redemption in STARGATE SG-1: Hydra.

NEW ANIMATIONS

Artist Tye Bourdony has sent along links to some of his latest satires -- and they are animated. Tye has brought us many satires in the past. Be sure to visit his site:
Oompa: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ed1CT77CPMM
Geico: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rsdx-UCHGhA
Rorschach: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=racbmLCcpko&feature=channel_page.

Sev Trek
For more of these fabulous cartoons, go to http://cartoons.sev.com.au/Sev-Space/Sevylon-5/.

FRINGE FUN

FRINGE fans can now enter for a chance to win a trip to the set of FRINGE at www.CompleteThePattern.com.
The grand prize winner will win a trip to Vancouver, BC. The first prize winner will get a hi-def home entertainment system and five second prize winners will receive a copy of the Complete First Season on DVD.
You can purchase the Complete First Season of Fringe on September 8th. See more information down in the DVD section.

SCOOBY ZOINKS POINTS

Official website: http://scoobydoo.kidswb.com/zoinkspoints/

Synopsis:
Warner Bros. Consumer Products (WBCP) announces the Scooby-Doo Zoinks Points consumer rewards program. This first of its kind program offers fans the opportunity to download and access free, exclusive online content with the purchase of all Scooby-Doo licensed products. Users will have access to a vast and ever-expanding collection of online and downloadable content, including custom Scooby-Doo online games, video clips, wallpapers, screen savers, podcasts and more.

New DVDs





Yellowstone YELLOWSTONE: BATTLE FOR LIFE
Release date: September 29, 2009
Official website: www.bbcamerica.com

Synopsis:
America’s first National Park, Yellowstone, is one of the most spectacular wildernesses on Earth and home to some of the richest wildlife beyond the plains of Africa. YELLOWSTONE: BATTLE FOR LIFE reveals the beauty and struggles of this amazing natural treasure. A must-own documentary for nature enthusiasts everywhere, the release contains three hour-long episodes that encompass nearly an entire year at Yellowstone National Park, as well as 30 minutes of behind-the-scenes special features.

Video clips:
Big Horn Sheep
http://raincloud.warnerbros.com/wbol/us/whv/med/bbc/yellowstone/battleforlife/clips/ysa_clip_9_300.asx
Bears
http://raincloud.warnerbros.com/wbol/us/whv/med/bbc/yellowstone/battleforlife/clips/yss_clip_1_300.asx
Food
http://raincloud.warnerbros.com/wbol/us/whv/med/bbc/yellowstone/battleforlife/clips/yss_clip_8_300.asx

Scare Tactics 3 SCARE TACTICS SEASON 3 PART 1
Release date: October 6, 2009
Official website: www.wbshop.com

Synopsis
Comedy superstar Tracy Morgan (30 Rock, Saturday Night Live) hosts Season Three of the smash prankster show Scare Tactics! A psycho invades the home of a babysitter and her charge. A mutant creature bursts from a lab’s oversized cocoon. A horror film director silences his critics…permanently. From outlandish to ghoulish to downright terrifying, these are just some of the elaborate scenarios into which the victims (or prey!) are lured. Hidden cameras capture their always primal, often hilarious reactions, with the results then edited and scored to create “mini-movies” where the victim is the star and their acting is for real!

Public Enemies SUPERMAN/BATMAN: PUBLIC ENEMIES
Release Date: September 29, 2009
Official website: http://www.warnervideo.com/supermanbatmandvd/

DC Universe Animated Original PG-13 Movie Based on Acclaimed Jeph Loeb/Ed McGuinness Comics; Tim Daly, Kevin Conroy & Clancy Brown Reprise Original Voices of Superman, Batman & Lex Luthor

The World’s Greatest Super Heroes become America’s most wanted criminals – and are hunted by friends and foes alike – in SUPERMAN/BATMAN: PUBLIC ENEMIES, the sixth entry in the popular DVD series of DC Universe Animated Original PG-13 Movies. A co-production of Warner Premiere, DC Comics and Warner Bros. Animation, the full- length animated film will be distributed by Warner Home Video on September 29, 2009. SUPERMAN/BATMAN: PUBLIC ENEMIES will be available as a Special Edition 2-disc version on DVD and Blu-Ray™ Hi-Def for $24.98 (SRP) and $29.99 (SRP), respectively, as well as single disc DVD for $19.98 (SRP) and On Demand.

SUPERMAN/BATMAN: PUBLIC ENEMIES is based on the popular Jeph Loeb/Ed McGuinness comic series/graphic novel. Animation legend Bruce Timm (Superman Doomsday, Green Lantern) is executive producer. Michael Goguen (Justice League: The New Frontier) is supervising producer. Sam Liu (The Batman) is directing a script written by Stan Berkowitz (Justice League: The New Frontier).
In the film, United States President Lex Luthor uses the oncoming trajectory of a Kryptonite asteroid to frame Superman and declare a $1 billion bounty on the heads of the Man of Steel and his “partner in crime,” Batman. Heroes and villains alike launch a relentless pursuit of Superman and Batman, who must unite – and recruit help – to stave off the action-packed onslaught, stop the asteroid, and uncover Luthor’s devious plot to take command of far more than North America.
The movie reunites the lead voices of Superman, Batman and Lex Luthor from the landmark Superman: The Animated Series and Batman: The Animated Series. Tim Daly (Private Practice), Kevin Conroy (Batman: The Animated Series, Justice League) and Clancy Brown (The Shawshank Redemption) reprise their roles as Superman, Batman and Lex Luthor, respectively.

The Mentalist THE MENTALIST - SEASON ONE
Release date: September 22, 2009
Official website: www.thementalistdvd.com

Synopsis
“A mentalist is a master manipulator of thought and behavior.” The mentalist is Patrick Jane (Simon Baker in an acclaimed performance), a celebrity psychic whose wife and child are viciously murdered by an elusive serial killer called Red John. Devastated, Patrick admits his paranormal act is fake, renounces his earlier life and uses his astonishing skills of observation and analysis – talents that made him appear psychically gifted – to bring killers to justice. At crime scenes across California, Patrick now helps an elite team of detectives break their toughest cases. But no matter how many criminals he catches, Patrick never forgets his central goal: Find Red John. And bring him down.

REVIEW OF DVD

I have to admit, I didn't watch this show much this year, but have always been interested in it. Simon Baker is really easy on the eyes, and I loved him in THE GUARDIAN. He is wonderful in the role of Patrick Jane, a consultant who helps the California Bureau of Investigation with murder cases.
I love character based action/adventure shows and this one fills both bills. There is enough action each week and the characters are rich and keep me coming back for more. Thank heavens for the DVD! I started watching yesterday and 4 hours later wondered why I hadn't stayed up to watch this program throughout the year. CBS has been great at putting the show on at different times as well, but if you are like me, the DVD is what you need. From the first story, the characters, work on a number of levels. As you progress through the DVD, you see them grow and get better and closer. While Patrick is the focus of nearly everything that goes on, the B stories are very good as well. I love the growing love story between Rigsby and Van Pelt. Rigsby is a big football kind of guy who is quite shy and madly in love with the new agent, Van Pelt -- but too shy to tell her of his feelings. When a baddie comes after Jane, Rigsby is attacked and you see there are feelings between the two, but now you have a situation -- on-the-job love stories never work out.
Robin Tunney is very good as Agent Teresa Lisbon. As the series begins, she is the foil for Jane, but as the series has progressed, you learn more about her troubled childhood and you can appreciate her character a bit more.
If you love the show, you'll truly enjoy the DVD.
The new season premieres September 24 at 10:00pm ET.

Fringe-Season 1

FRINGE

Release date: September 8, 2009

"FRINGE: THE COMPLETE FIRST SEASON features 20 episodes of the most exciting new show on television, including over six hours of never-before-seen bonus features and collectible lenticular packaging,” said Rosemary Markson, WHV Vice President, TV and Special Interest Marketing. “Warner Home Video is ecstatic to release this much- anticipated science-fiction hit on DVD and Blu-Ray.”

DVD Special Features Include:
Evolution: The Genesis of Fringe featurette - The creators of the show discuss how the series unfolded and the qualities that make it so unique
Behind the Real Science of Fringe featurette - From teleportation to re-animation, Fringe incorporates recent discoveries in science. Consulting experts and scientists who are the authorities in their field address the areas of science which are the inspiration for the show.
Fringe Cast A Massive Undertaking: The Making of Fringe (on select episodes) - An in-depth exploration of how select episodes came to be made: from the frozen far reaches of shooting the pilot in Toronto, to the weekly challenges of bringing episodes to air
The Casting of Fringe- The story, as told by producers and cast, of how Anna Torv, Joshua Jackson, John Noble and others came to be cast in the series.
Fringe Visual Effects featurette - Goes deep into the creation of the shared dream state with some of the biggest VFX shots of the show.
Dissected Files: Unaired Scenes
Unusual Side Effects: Gag Reel
Deciphering the Scene
Roberto Orci Production Diary
Gene the Cow montage
Three Full-Length Commentaries from writers/producers, including J.J. Abrams, Roberto Orci, Alex Kurtman, J.R. Orci, David Goodman, Bryan Burk, Akiva Goldsman and Jeff Pinkner

I love this show and have enjoyed all the episodes in this first season. I am anxiously awaiting season two and SO happy that the DVD will be out with all those wonderful extras listed above -- and more.

Video clips from FRINGE:
Footprint 2:11
http://raincloud.warnerbros.com/wbol/us/whv/med/fringe/season1/clips/ fs1iwwmfj_3T7656_footprint_300.asx
ZFT 2:30
http://raincloud.warnerbros.com/wbol/us/whv/med/fringe/season1/clips/ fs1iwwmfj_3T7656_zft_300.asx
Safety Deposit Boxes 1:13
http://raincloud.warnerbros.com/wbol/us/whv/med/fringe/season1/clips/ fs1s_3T7659_safety_deposit_boxes_300.asx
Cracked the Case 2:04
http://raincloud.warnerbros.com/wbol/us/whv/med/fringe/season1/clips/ fs1td_3T7658_cracked_the_case_300.asx

INTERVIEW FOOTAGE FOR FRINGE
J.J. Abrams Discussing FRINGE
http://raincloud.warnerbros.com/wbol/us/whv/med/fringe/season1/dvdreleaseparty/ fs1_dlp_jjabrams_idea_of_fringe_500.asx
J.J. Abrams Talks About Weird Topics
http://raincloud.warnerbros.com/wbol/us/whv/med/fringe/season1/dvdreleaseparty/ fs1_dlp_jjabrams_weird_topics_300.asx
Joshua Jackson Discusses Season One
http://raincloud.warnerbros.com/wbol/us/whv/med/fringe/season1/dvdreleaseparty/ fs1_dlp_jjackson_hooked_300.asx
John Noble Talks About The Show
http://raincloud.warnerbros.com/wbol/us/whv/med/fringe/season1/dvdreleaseparty/ fs1_dlp_jnoble_what_i_have_learned_300.asx

REVIEW OF DVD

I have loved this show from the very beginning. FRINGE is a very thought-provoking show that has a definite grounding in real science. Perhaps that is why I like it so much. While I can watch some "fantasy" programs, programs that have some basis in reality seem to work better for me. While some of the stories are pretty much out there, the interaction with the characters is just perfect. You have Olivia, an FBI agent now assigned to investigate strange occurances, ala X-Files. You have Walter, somewhat of a mad scientist, but perhaps he is more of a visionary. His son, Peter, acts as a guardian for Walter, who gets released from a mental institution to help Olivia, is somewhat of a con-man, collaborator, partner to both Olivia and Walter. The acting is just top-rate -- as is the writing. Created by J.J. Abrams, you see a tinge of ALIAS, but only that. The chemistry for all of the characters is wonderful and I am anxious to see what happens for the upcoming second season. This is like a melodrama that teases you with clues each week. You don't have to watch each week to enjoy the show though -- but watching each week increases the enjoyment -- at least it does for me.
The DVD is marvelous. There are extra features on each of the 7 discs included in the package. You will hear from J.J. Abrams about how he created the series, you will hear from the writers and special effects genuises who have brought this show to the small screen. This DVD is definitely one you will enjoy watching on many levels.

CELEBRATE HISPANIC HERITAGE MONTH WITH BABY LOONEY TUNES


Warner Bros. Consumer Products and renowned Latina health expert, Dra. Aliza Lifshitz, partner to reach out to Hispanic mothers and promote healthy, happy babies, utilizing Baby Looney Tunes as ambassadors for the program. The partnership announced September 1 coincides with the start of Hispanic Heritage Month and will provide new and expecting mothers with fun, engaging and educational ways to best care for and nuture their babies.

Visit the all-new Baby Looney Tunes branded sections on www.MomLogic.com and www.VidaySalud.com for more about the Happily Healthy fun initiative and video tips from Dra. Aliza and Baby Looney Tunes' downloads for kids:

Mom Logic: www.momlogic.com/babylooneytunes
VidaySalud.com (Spanish Version): www.vidaysalud.com/babylooneytunes

Follow Baby Looney Tunes on Facebook and Baby Looney Tunes En Español on Facebook.

Primeval 2 PRIMEVAL: VOLUME 2
Release date: September 15, 2009

Synopsis:
Monster hit Primeval roars back onto the screens for an extended third series. Still reeling from Stephen's death and with the depth of Helen's betrayal now revealed, Nick Cutter must fight to re-focus his embattled team. Cutter's crew are joined by some new recruits in the form of maverick policeman Danny Quinn, sparky Egyptologist Sarah Page, and the new leader of the ARC's security forces Captain Becker. But as the anomalies continue to present an unrelenting series of threats, the task in hand seems almost insurmountable. It's not just deadly creatures the team has to contend with, they also face a threat to the future of not just the ARC but of mankind itself. Prepare for more explosive action as Primeval bares its newly sharpened teeth.

VIDEO CLIPS
http://pdl.warnerbros.com/wbol/us/whv/med/bbc/primeval/s3/clips/e2_clip_1_300.wmv
http://pdl.warnerbros.com/wbol/us/whv/med/bbc/primeval/s3/clips/e4s3_c_10_300.wmv

Our Gang

OUR GANG COLLECTION

Release date: September 1, 2009

Warner Bros. has done it again. From the extensive archive comes an OUR GANG collection. Alfalfa, Spanky, Buck Wheat and the rest of the gang arrive on today on the Warner Archive in The Our Gang Collection that headlines a stellar line-up of new releases. This new five-disc DVD set contains all 52 of the “Our Gang” shorts produced by MGM between 1938 and 1944 in their original, uncut form as first seen in theaters at a limited time special price of $34.99 only at http://www.warnerarchive.com.

Among the episodes in the Collection are “Party Fever,” “The Little Ranger,” “Alfalfa’s Aunt,” “Don’t Lie” and dozens more. Also seen in the cast are Froggy, Porky, and even little Mickey Guibitosi, who soon changed his screen name to Bobby (Robert) Blake. This collection marks the first ever home video release of the entire group of the 52 MGM shorts, news sure to be welcomed by the hordes of “Our Gang” fans out there. The “Our Gang” comedies are the first in a series of monthly Warner Archive Collection releases to be drawn from a library of classic theatrical short subjects originally produced by both Warner Bros. and MGM.

Also coming to the Warner Archive in September are the “Dogville” shorts, Wrestling Ernest Hemingway, Airbourne and many more. Please visit www.warnerarchive to view the vast selection of wonderful classic titles including treasures from the silent film era; rarely seen films starring Hollywood legends like Cary Grant, Clark Gable, Bette Davis; and Sci-fi cult classics like Doc Savage, Countdown and others.

Clip from the Our Gang Collection:
http://pdl.warnerbros.com/wbol/us/dd/med/warnerarchive/2009/08/dtc_august_preview_ourgang_1_qt_500.mov

THE ADVENTURES OF ONE ESKIMO
Release Date: August 31, 2009

The U.K.-based band "One Eskimo" and Warner Premiere have created an innovative new musical experience for consumers that brings a musical album together with groundbreaking animation and story to offer music fans a fully immersive musical and visual storytelling experience. The brainchild of lead singer Kristian Leontiou, "The Adventures of One Eskimo" is a visual album comprised of a series of animated musical story episodes jointly developed and produced by the band and Warner Premiere, and will be distributed by Warner Bros. Digital Distribution (WBDD). Warner Premiere and WBDD envision "The Adventures of One Eskimo" to be the first in a slate of visual album projects that offer musicians and consumers a new and compelling way to experience musical albums through the digital medium. "The Adventures of One eskimO" will debut August 31 on iTunes and other digital channels http://tinyurl.com/oneeskimorelease.

"We believe there is an opportunity for music and narrative to be combined into a new category of storytelling for digital mediums," said Diane Nelson, president of Warner Premiere. "'The Adventures of One eskimO' is a wonderful love story using adorable characters to tell a story in a truly creative way. We're looking forward to launching this series in September and working with additional artists on similar projects in the future."

Produced by Passion Pictures, well known for their award-winning Gorillaz animation, "The Adventures of One eskimO" takes viewers on an animated journey through an epic love story starring our hero One eskimO and his band of animal friends that include Monkey, Giraffe and Penguin. The story begins with One eskimO and the love of his life Little Feather living peacefully in their igloo home, enjoying life as it passes by. One evening, Little Feather and One eskimO are torn apart by a dark force known as Mr. Top Hat who controls the world through his crystal ball. Our forlorn eskimO mopes around, pining for his lost love, imagining that she has left him for Mr. Top Hat. Through the help of a wise and brave owl he learns that she is in great peril. With only a knapsack and an enduring love, One eskimO sets out with his band of animal friends on an epic quest to rescue her.

A 10 part short form animated series, "The Adventures of One eskimO" will debut on iTunes and other digital channels August 31. To download the One eskimO trailer and to pre-order the series visit: http://tinyurl.com/oneeskimorelease.

Help One eskimO before it's too late! By visiting www.findlittlefeather.com fans can join One eskimO and his band on a quest to track down his lost love. Users are confronted with a series of challenges and games set by the dastardly Mr. Top Hat which they have to overcome if they ever want One eskimO to see Little Feather again. Each game corresponds to major plot points from the animations themselves and employs the same unique look and feel. The online experience allows fans to delve deeper into the story and to feel part of the world of One eskimO.

For more details on One eskimO and to see their tour schedule with Tori Amos visit: www.oneeskimo.com.

Hello Mummy SCOOBY-DOO WHERE ARE YOU? VOLUME THREE HELLO MUMMY
Release Date: September 19, 2009

Synopsis:
The whodunit format was a daring new frontier for an animated series, but the members of the Mystery Inc. team have grown to become authentic popular-culture icons.

Video Clips:
No Accident 1:35
http://raincloud.warnerbros.com/wbol/us/whv/med/scooby/whereareyou/vol3/clips/bitb_no_accident_300.asx
Puppeteer 1:32
http://raincloud.warnerbros.com/wbol/us/whv/med/scooby/whereareyou/vol3/clips/br_puppeteer_300.asx
Mummy Catch 2:04
http://raincloud.warnerbros.com/wbol/us/whv/med/scooby/whereareyou/vol3/clips/sdaamt_mummy_catch_300.asx

REVIEW:
Scooby-Doo is one of the favorite cartoons for many kids around the country. My nephew's kids will just sit around the tube and watch this goofy dog and his friends for hours! How good is that? In this collection, you see Scooby-Doo and his friends do what they do best -- solve mysteries! Heck, I liked watching them as well. Scooby-Doo is fun for all ages and if you are a fan of this series -- you just have to have the final release. This two-disc set has wonderful episodes like "Diamonds are a Ghouls Best Friend" and of course, the Scooby-Doo Christmas - bonus episode. If you are looking for good family fun, don't miss this one.

SUPERNATURAL: THE COMPLETE FOURTH SEASON
Release date: September 1, 2009
Official website: www.supernaturaldvd.com

Synopsis:
Resurrection. After enduring unspeakable torture, Dean escapes from Hell, rescued by an all-powerful creature he's never seen before 'an Angel', a warrior of God who recruits Sam and Dean into Heaven?s battle against Hell. And there are whispers that a certain fallen angel will soon be freed from his prison deep in Hell: Lucifer. If Sam and Dean can't stop it -- if Lucifer walks free -- he'll bring on the Apocalypse. Meanwhile, the Winchester Brothers reunite and hit the road, battling the supernatural wherever they go. They encounter demons, spirits, Dracula himself and even a drunk, heavily armed 7-foot-tall teddy bear. All the while, the ultimate war draws them into its horror throughout this enthralling 6-Disc, 22-Episode Season Four. Caught between Heaven and Hell, between God and the Devil, the Winchester brothers must battle for the future of humankind.

Video Clips:
http://raincloud.warnerbros.com/wbol/us/whv/med/supernatural/season4/clips/ss4ikwydls_1_900_angel_300.asx

1 900 Angel 2:16
http://raincloud.warnerbros.com/wbol/us/whv/med/supernatural/season4/clips/ss4ikwydls_1_900_angel_300.asx
Demons 1:41
http://raincloud.warnerbros.com/wbol/us/whv/med/supernatural/season4/clips/ss4ikwydls_demons_300.asx
Last Chance 1:34
http://raincloud.warnerbros.com/wbol/us/whv/med/supernatural/season4/clips/ss4ikwydls_one_last_chance_300.asx

Smallville 8 SMALLVILLE: THE COMPLETE EIGHTH SEASON
Release date: August 25, 2009
Official website: www.smallvilledvd.com

Synopsis:
There is a new reporter at the Daily Planet: Clark Kent, who shares a workspace with Lois Lane. There is a new hero in Metropolis, too. No one knows who he is. But Jimmy Olsen was on the scene of one of the do-gooder's exploits, and he snapped a blurred photo of the hero in superspeed action -- a hero everyone now calls the Red-Blue Blur. Red-jacketed, blue-shirted Clark Kent draws closer to his Superman destiny in the exciting 22-episode, 6-disc Season 8 of Smallville. Another Kryptonian destiny also takes shape. Davis Bloome begins to realize he is Doomsday. His mission on Earth: kill Clark Kent. So many new events (will Jimmy and Chloe's marriage last?), so many new faces (Tess Mercer, Saturn Girl and Cosmic Boy among them!), so many state-of-the-art effects -- so don't miss a single thrill-packed moment!

Video clips:
Kent farm 2:17
http://raincloud.warnerbros.com/wbol/us/whv/med/smallville/season8/clips/ss8_abyss_kent_farm_300.asx
Letting Go 2:33
http://raincloud.warnerbros.com/wbol/us/whv/med/smallville/season8/clips/ss8_abyss_letting_go_300.asx
Memory Loss 2:06
http://raincloud.warnerbros.com/wbol/us/whv/med/smallville/season8/clips/ss8_abyss_memory_loss_300.asx
Taken Over 2:32
http://raincloud.warnerbros.com/wbol/us/whv/med/smallville/season8/clips/ss8_abyss_taken_over_300.asx

REVIEW:
I have been a fan of SMALLVILLE since it began -- wow eight years ago! Where has the time gone? It has been wonderful seeing the actors grow into their roles. While I miss John Schneider and Michael Rosenbaum, Kristen Kreuk did come back for a brief period as Lana Lang. However, Tess Mercer's addition (portrayed by Cassidy Freeman) has brought new life to the Luther lab and this DVD series may be the best yet. There is plenty of action and with Clark getting help from Oliver Queen (Justin Harley) as Green Arrow. Allison Mack has always been wonderful as Chloe and she continues to light up the screen whenver she is part of it. Can't say I'm a huge fan of Erica Durance. Her Lois Lane leaves me wanting something more. In some episodes she is added more as an after thought than as a plot staple.
All in all though, SMALLVILLE fans will have a lot to talk about and with the coming new season, there are hopes for even greater adventures for Clark Kent.

Superman SUPERMAN: THE COMPLETE ANIMATED SERIES
Release date: November 24, 2009

Are you or your kids a fan of the animated SUPERMAN series? Well now you can bring home the animated adventures of the Man of Steel in its entirety on DVD this November. SUPERMAN: The Complete Animated Series will be released on DVD on November 24. This seven-disc set will contain all 54 episodes of this animated classic and the set will be priced at $53.82 SRP. You can take a look at all the special features below.

Follow the entire history of Superman from start to finish on this long-awaited DVD. Witness his incredible arrival on Earth, how he finds his place in his adopted home and his realization of what his powers can truly do for the forces of good. See CLARK KENT balance his roles as a mild-mannered news reporter and superhuman crimefighter, facing mortal enemy LEX LUTHOR, while still keeping his day job.

Fans of the comic books and the TV show alike will rejoice as every single episode can finally be purchased together on this seven-disc collector's set. Additionally, the exclusive extras deliver even more fun to this already superior DVD collection. Go "Behind the Cape" with David Kaufman (the voice of JIMMY OLSEN) as he takes you behind the scenes with the show's creative team, watch an excerpt from the new Bryan Singer and Kevin Burns SUPERMAN documentary, listen to commentary with Bruce Timm on several episodes and much more. This complete collection also includes a bonus disc featuring the all-new documentary The Despot DARKSEID: A Villain Worthy of SUPERMAN. SUPERMAN: The Complete Animated Series,with hours and hours of DVD entertainment, is the perfect holiday gift.

Special Features:
- Commentary by Bruce Timm, Paul Dini, Alan Burnett, Dan Riba, Glen Murakami, Curt Geda, Jason Hillhouse, James Tucker, and Butch Lukic on many episodes
- Selectable Pop-Up Trivia Tracks
- SUPERMAN: Learning to Fly - Explores the Creation of the Series
- Building the Mythology: Superman's Supporting Cast- Showcases the Supporting Players in the SUPERMAN Saga
- Menaces of Metropolis: Behind the Villains of SUPERMAN - The Origin and Evolution of Superman's Adventures
- SUPERMAN: Behind the Cape - David Kaufman (The Voice of JIMMY OLSEN) Takes You Behind the Scenes with the Show's Creative Team
- Look, Up in the Sky! The Amazing Story of SUPERMAN - Excerpt From the New -- Documentary Produced by Bryan Singer and Kevin Burns
- Bonus Disc Featuring the All-New Documentary The Despot DARKSEID: A Villain Worthy of SUPERMAN.

Super Friends SUPERFRIENDS: THE LOST EPISODES
Release Date: August 11, 2009
Official websiste: www.dcbeyond.com

Synopsis:
Powerful super heroes Batman, Robin, Superman, Wonder Woman, Aquaman, Wonder Twins Zan and Jayna and their rascally blue space monkey Gleek battle evil, protect humanity and save the world from unthinkable dangers in these 24 action-packed adventures. These cool cartoon actionfests showcase a gallery of DC Comics heroes and fan-favorite villains like Brainiac and Mr. Mxyzptlk, plus the Hanna-Barbera-originated hero El Dorado. Produced after the Super Friends show ended its run, these treasures were ?lost? for more than a decade until they were shown as part of The Superman/Batman Adventures series. It's a Deluxe 2-Disc Collector's Set with Bonus Downloadables -- your own pieces of super hero comic book history!


There are so many DVDs to select from, I have moved some of the other selections to the DVD page. Please go there for more DVD selections -- and reviews -- DVD NEWS AND REVIEWS .

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!

For more information on other DVDs that have just been released and reviewed, go to New DVDs

Babylon 5

BABYLON 5 MUSIC VIDEOS AND TRIBUTES

I found this message on the Babylon 5 moderated newsgroup this morning and just had to post it so that others might enjoy the marvelous music videos created by John Hudgens.

+++++++++++++++++++++++++ As some of you may know, I was hired by Joe Straczynski back in the day to create Babylon 5 music videos for him to use at science fiction conventions, and later to promote the show to networks. Eight were produced over the run of the series, not including the memorial videos I did later for Rick Biggs and Andreas Katsulas.

For the longest time, the only way to see these was if Joe or I showed them at a convention, but now, after numerous requests from fans over the years, Joe has given me permission me to post these online.

Danger Zone: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xYNG0ow0G0k

I Need a Hero: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PFo3Lau2Occ

Requiem: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=X7ckXY6yiVQ

Nobody's Side: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Wk9LvldiOf0

Welcome to the Third Age: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YT5q_ltXiY0

Keep Yourself Alive: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=t0lRtpWR5lo

The Phantom B5 Video: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uV4GMNjDdYc

Third Age 2K: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HqIyY0PWjbI

Richard Biggs memorial: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HyD4L8yNtsA

Andreas Katsulas memorial: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=h2UQ2l9NPIg

- This is the extended version that I did for Andreas' widow ater the original cut was released on the net. It's never been seen online until now.

For those of you who've never seen these, I hope you enjoy them - and for those that have (and emailed me many times over the years about releasing them), I hope they're as good as you remember. Working with Joe on these videos was one of the highlights of my career, and I'll be forever grateful to him for the doors these have opened for me. I'm proud to have them on my resume.

John Hudgens
www.zteamproductions.com

Comics Brave/Bold #29 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.

RedCircleHangman 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?

Calendar




October 8-10, 2009
Twilight Convention
City: Anaheim, CA
Place: Sheraton Park Hotel
For more information, go to www.creationent.com

October 10-11, 2009
Hollywood Autograph Show

Place: Burbank, CA
B5 guests participating: Julie Caitlin Brown; Claudia Chrisitan; Mira Furlan; Stephen Furst; Bill Mumy; Patricia Tallman, Andrea Thompson and Sarah Douglas (Deathwalker)
For more information, go to www.hollywoodshow.com

December 4-6, 2009
STEEL CITY CON
Place: Monroeville Convention Center
City: Monroeville (near Pittsbugh) Pa.
Guests include: Luciana Carro, Battlestar Galactica, Ernie Hudson from Ghostbusters I and II, Peter Mayhew
Recently added: C.J. Graham (Friday the 13th), Robb Demarest (Ghost Hunters Int'l)
For more information, go to http://www.steelcitycon.com .

January 23-24, 2010
STAR TREK CONVENTION
Place: Westin St. Francis Hotel
City: San Francisco, CA
Guests: William Shatner and Patrick Stewart

For more information, go to www.creationent.com/cal/stsan.htm.

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, 1999-2009

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