Sunday, November 30, 2014

134 Documentary Films Vie for 15 Spots on 87th Academy Awards Shortlist

134 Documentary Features Submitted For 2014 Oscar® Race

One hundred thirty-four features have been submitted for consideration in the Documentary Feature category for the 87th Academy Awards®.

The submitted features, listed in alphabetical order, are:
“Afternoon of a Faun: Tanaquil Le Clercq”
“Ai Weiwei: The Fake Case”
“Algorithms”
“Alive Inside”
“All You Need Is Love”
“Altina”
“America: Imagine the World without Her”
“American Revolutionary: The Evolution of Grace Lee Boggs”
“Anita”
“Antarctica: A Year on Ice”
“Art and Craft”
“Awake: The Life of Yogananda”
“The Barefoot Artist”
“The Battered Bastards of Baseball”
“Before You Know It”
“Bitter Honey”
“Born to Fly: Elizabeth Streb vs. Gravity”
“Botso The Teacher from Tbilisi”
“Captivated The Trials of Pamela Smart”
“The Case against 8”
“Cesar’s Last Fast”
“Citizen Koch”
“CitizenFour”
“Code Black”
“Concerning Violence”
“The Culture High”
“Cyber-Seniors”
“DamNation”
“Dancing in Jaffa”
“Death Metal Angola”
“The Decent One”
“Dinosaur 13”
“Do You Know What My Name Is?”
“Documented”
“The Dog”
“E-Team”
“Elaine Stritch: Shoot Me”
“Elena”
“Evolution of a Criminal”
“Fed Up”
“Finding Fela”
“Finding Vivian Maier”
“Food Chains”
“The Galapagos Affair: Satan Came to Eden”
“Getting to the Nutcracker”
“Glen Campbell…I’ll Be Me”
“Gore Vidal: The United States of Amnesia”
“The Great Flood”
“The Great Invisible”
“The Green Prince”
“The Hacker Wars”
“The Hadza: Last of the First”
“Hanna Ranch”
“Happy Valley”
“The Hornet’s Nest”
“I Am Ali”
“If You Build It”
“The Immortalists”
“The Internet’s Own Boy”
“Ivory Tower”
“James Cameron’s Deepsea Challenge”
“Jodorowsky’s Dune”
“Journey of a Female Comic”
“Keep On Keepin’ On”
“Kids for Cash”
“The Kill Team”
“Korengal”
“La Bare”
“Last Days in Vietnam”
“Last Hijack”
“The Last Patrol”
“Levitated Mass”
“Life Itself”
“Little White Lie”
“Llyn Foulkes One Man Band”
“Magician: The Astonishing Life and Work of Orson Welles”
“Manakamana”
“Merchants of Doubt”
“Mission Blue”
“Mistaken for Strangers”
“Mitt”
“Monk with a Camera”
“Nas: Time Is Illmatic”
“National Gallery”
“Next Goal Wins”
“Next Year Jerusalem”
“Night Will Fall”
“No Cameras Allowed”
“Now: In the Wings on a World Stage”
“Occupy the Farm”
“The Only Real Game”
“The Overnighters”
“Particle Fever”
“Pay 2 Play: Democracy’s High Stakes”
“Pelican Dreams”
“The Pleasures of Being Out of Step”
“Plot for Peace”
“Point and Shoot”
“Poverty Inc.”
“Print the Legend”
“Private Violence”
“Pump”
“Rabindranath Tagore – The Poet of Eternity”
“Red Army”
“Remote Area Medical”
“Rich Hill”
“The Rule”
“The Salt of the Earth”
“Shadows from My Past”
“She’s Beautiful When She’s Angry”
“A Small Section of the World”
“Smiling through the Apocalypse – Esquire in the 60s”
“Supermensch: The Legend of Shep Gordon”
“The Supreme Price”
“Tales of the Grim Sleeper”
“Tanzania: A Journey Within”
“This Is Not a Ball”
“Thomas Keating: A Rising Tide of Silence”
“Through a Lens Darkly: Black Photographers and the Emergence of a People”
“True Son”
“20,000 Days on Earth”
“Unclaimed”
“Under the Electric Sky”
“Underwater Dreams”
“Virunga”
“Waiting for August”
“Walking the Camino: Six Ways to Santiago”
“Warsaw Uprising”
“Watchers of the Sky”
“Watermark”
“We Are the Giant”
“We Could Be King”
“Whitey: United States of America v. James J. Bulger”
“A World Not Ours”

Several of the films have not yet had their required Los Angeles and New York qualifying releases. Submitted features must fulfill the theatrical release requirements and comply with all of the category’s other qualifying rules in order to advance in the voting process.  A shortlist of 15 films will be announced in December.

Films submitted in the Documentary Feature category also may qualify for Academy Awards in other categories, including Best Picture, provided they meet the requirements for those categories.

The 87th Academy Awards nominations will be announced live on Thursday, January 15, 2015, at 5:30 a.m. PT in the Academy’s Samuel Goldwyn Theater.

The Oscars® will be held on Sunday, February 22, 2015, at the Dolby Theatre® at Hollywood & Highland Center® in Hollywood, and will be televised live by the ABC Television Network.  The Oscar presentation also will be televised live in more than 225 countries and territories worldwide.

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Negromancer's Fave Poli-Reads - November 2014 Edition - Update #17


From YahooNews:  Republican bitch gets out of hand with President Obama's daughters about something that is really not important at all.

From RollingStone:  The 15 worst owners in sports.

From RollingStone:  Rape... at a college founded by a slave owner that raped his female slaves... No way...

From the GuardianUK:  Angela Davis on Mike Brown.

From the GuardianUK:  You've got to be kidding me.  Masai homeland to be turned into hunting ground for Dubai royalty... Off with their heads.

From FirstLook:  Glenn Greenwald's sarcastic piece about the people most excited about a Hilary Clinton presidency.

From Politico:  Rep. Jim Clyburn (D-SC) on why the Republicans want to impeach President Obama.

From TIME:  Kareem Abdul-Jabbar says that American politicians are a bigger threat to democracy than ISIS.  Yes.

From Vocativ:  Be a cop in Oakley Michigan for $1200.

From RSN:  How to scrap the two-party system...

From BBCNews:  J. Edgar Hoover used Nazis as Cold War spies.  Why am I not surprised.

From TheDailyBeast:  Jonathan Alter, one of my favorite writers about politics and society, talks about what the day after the Republican takeover of Congress will be like.

From Newsweek:  When Google met Wikileaks.

From WashingtonPost:  Senator Mark Warner's middle of the road fantasy almost cost him his seat on Tuesday, November 4, 2014

From YahooNews:  President Obama not mopey about 2014 midterms.

From TheWashingtonPost:  Rachel Maddow on the GOP banking on fear.

From RawStory:  North Carolina voting machines acting kinda shady.  I have been hearing similar stories for years.

From ThinkProgress:  A secretive voter purge in 27 states, largely unknown and aimed at suspected members of minorities.

From Truthout:  The origins, history, and more about GamerGate.


Negromancer News Bits and Bites for the Week of November 23 to 30, 2014 - Update #11


NEWS:

From Billboard:  She has an Oscar, and Jennifer Lawrence may very well have a Top 40 hit on the Billboard charts by next week.  It's "The Hanging Tree" from the album featuring James Newton Howard's score for Mockingjay Part 1.

From Playlist:  5 Things to Know about Beetlejuice on its 25th anniversary.

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From Variety:  Amy Berg, Nate Parker, and Matthew Cooke crowd fund for Ferguson-related doc.

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From THR:  Universal releases "Jurassic World" teaser trailer.

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From Variety:  The #1 movie at the box office for the weekend of Friday, November 21st to 23rd, 2014 is The Hunger Games: Mockingjay - Part 1 with an estimated take of $123 million, the biggest weekend opening of the year, thus far.


STAR WARS:

From YahooMovies:  John Boyega answers haters of the "Black stormtrooper."

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From YahooTV:  Apparently, Andy Serkis is the narrator or provides the voice over for the Episode 7 teaser.

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From TechCrunch and iTunes:  The first trailer for "The Force Awakens."

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Star Wars News Dump:
YahooMovies:  Joe Johnston, a special effect pioneer, is selling some of his Star Wars items.

YahooMovies:  JJ Abrams teases Star Wars teaser.

YahooMovies:  A list of theaters showing the Star Wars: The Force Awakens trailer.

From io9:  Rumors about first Star Wars spin-off film.

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From FlickeringMyth:  "Star Wars The Force Awakens" trailer will premiere Friday, November 28, 2017...

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From EntertainmentIE:  A possible two-second clip from the first Episode 7 trailer.


TRAILERS:

From 20th Century Fox, new trailer for Unfinished Business.



The Killing of Michael Brown in Ferguson - November 2014 Edition - Update #26


From AddictingInfo:  Bob McCulloch connected to organization that did fundraising for Darren Wilson.  Special prosecutor, bee-yuch.

From RSN:  Benjamin Watson is angry.  Join the crowd.

From YahooNews:  No severance package for Darren Wilson... or so Ferguson's mayor says.

From YahooNews:  Darren Wilson resigns.

From ThinkProgress:  Compare Justice Scalia's writings on what a grand jury is supposed to do.

From HuffingtonPost:  McCulloch manipulated grand jury process to shield a killer police officer.

From Variety:  Oscar-nominee Amy Berg, actor Nate Parker, and writer/director Matthew Cooke launch an Indiegogo campaign for their film, "Black Male Crisis," in wake of Ferguson non-indictment.

From Esquire:  Charles Pierce mocks Darren Wilson's ridiculous story as given to the ridiculous George Clinton-connection-oulos interview on FOX News lite... err ABC.
 
From YahooTV:  Garth Brooks cancels promotional appearances for his new album as distasteful while Mike Brown protests are occuring.

From ABCNews:  Celebs react to injustice of no indictment.

From TheVox:  Why Killer Darren's story is unbelievable.

From TheVox:  Why President Obama can't give the Ferguson speech his supporters want.

From YahooNews:  George Stephanopoulos interviews Darren Wilson.

From InTheseTimes:  A short history of killer cops.

From RSN:  No indictment.

From YouTube:  Reporter Larry Everest confronts Missouri Governor Jay Nixon at Ferguson press conference.

From StLouisDisptach:  Darren Wilson married his girlfriend.  His wedding gift to her was the carcass of a "buck" he killed just a few months ago.

From FirstLook:  A complete guide to the shooting of Mike Brown.

From YahooNews:  Mike Brown's killer does not expect to be charged with killing Mike Brown, according to the St. Louis Police Officer's Association.

From RSN:  Pre-emptive state of emergency means that the grand jury decision is rigged, indeed.

From RSN:  Read Missouri Governor Jay Nixon's declaration of a state of emergency.

From the DailyBeast:  Dread in America, following Ferguson.

From Esquire:  They're right:  What is going on in Ferguson is not going to end well.

From YahooNews:  The Associated Press answers questions about the Ferguson grand jury on the Michael Brown killing.

From YahooNews:  Reportedly, Officer Shooter... err... I mean Wilson could return to the Ferguson police department if he is not indicted.  Sounds like a winner!

From YahooNews:  Where're the injuries, Officer Wilson?  Video footage of Darren Wilson in the hours after his killed Michael Brown are released under state open records laws.

From the AP via RSN:  Ferguson no-fly zone was aimed at media.

From YahooNews:  Missouri governor, Jay Nixon, prepared for war, but not to prosecute a murdering cop.

From the GuardianUK:  Ferguson police ready for war.  Gonna kill us some more Niggers!

From RSN:  18-year-old Black male (what else) shot from behind by St. Louis (where else) cop.

From the WashingtonPost:  There will likely be no federal charges against Darren Wilson, the man who killed Mike Brown.  They're too busy bringing charges against anti-war and environmental activists.

From YahooNews:  Attorney General Holder: Ferguson police need "wholesale" change.  D'uh, General Holder, d'uh

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THE BASICS:

From TheIntercept via RSN:  Klan jury... I mean grand jury in Mike Brown's shooting began Wednesday, August 20th, 2014.

Michael Brown, 18, was shot to death, reportedly by police officer Darren Wilson, on Saturday, August 9th, 2014 at approximately 2:15 pm on Canfield Drive in Ferguson, Missouri.  Ferguson is a small city in St. Louis County.  The shooting of the unarmed Brown sparked a furious backlash and days of protests, some violent and involving looting.  What follows is a list of links to news articles about the shooting and related matters:

From the StLouisPostDispatch:  An early article about the Michael Brown shooting

From the LosAngelesTimes:  This is the earliest (or oldest) article that I could find about the Michael Brown shooting.

From HuffingtonPost:  Another early article about the local African-American community's reaction to the shooting of Brown

From PrisonCulture:  A searing image of Michael Brown's father

From the WashingtonPost via RSN:  More of Darren Wilson's history and background emerges; it seems that he was previously associated with another police department that had a bad relationship with the local black folks.

From  Al Jazeera via RSN:  Darren Wilson: Judge, jury, and executioner.

From YahooNews via CSM and the AP:  Shooter a.k.a. Darren Wilson tells his "side" of the story about how he shot an unarmed black man to death.

Updated Shooting Timeline:  The AP via YahooNews.


Saturday, November 29, 2014

KT Tunstall Sings Three New Songs in "Tinker Bell and the Legend of the NeverBeast"

KT TUNSTALL LIGHTS UP PIXIE HOLLOW MARCH 3rd 2015 ON BLU-RAY

Singer/songwriter/musician KT Tunstall heads to Pixie Hollow to help bring animal fairy Fawn’s story to life in “Tinker Bell and the Legend of the NeverBeast.” Tunstall performs three new songs in the film, including “Float,” “Strange Sight” and “1000 Years.”

“KT is a celebrated songwriter and musician,” says director Steve Loter. “She reminds me of Fawn in a way with her big heart and this amazing voice that has a little bit of edge and a tremendous amount of appeal.”

The all-new Tinker Bell film is about the relationship that develops between Fawn, a compassionate animal fairy who thinks with her heart, and Gruff, a massive beast with glowing green eyes who seems to be on a mission. “It’s a real action-adventure movie,” says Tunstall. “The characters are so cool. I was over the moon to take part. Disney Animation has such an incredible heritage of work, spanning decades, and it’s really special to be part of that.”

Tunstall had fun channeling the film’s heroine. “‘Float’ is Fawn’s opening theme,” she says. “It’s fantastic how she spends her days looking after all the animals around Pixie Hollow. The song says, ‘I’ll just float.’ She doesn’t have to have a reason, she just really loves having a pair of wings, so she’s going out for a fly, getting into trouble and mischief.”

The artist also helped introduce the NeverBeast. “‘Strange Sight’ is heard when Fawn discovers this beast living in the woods near Pixie Hollow,” says Tunstall. “He’s a huge, scary-looking guy, but she isn’t afraid. She wants to help him and make friends with him, but can’t work out what he is or what he’s doing with the rocks he’s collecting.”

The third song in Tunstall’s lineup, which she sings with singer/songwriter Bleu, is an emotional song that can be heard during the film’s end credits.

ABOUT KT TUNSTALL:
Tunstall has recorded five studio albums and received multiple Brit Award nominations including a win for female solo artist and a 2007 Grammy® nom for the song “Black Horse and the Cherry Tree.” Her hit “Suddenly I See” was featured in the motion picture “The Devil Wears Prada,” which led her to her interest in composing for film including “The Kid,” “Winter’s Tale” and a collaboration with A.R. Rahman on the song “We Could Be Kings” for Disney’s “Million Dollar Arm.”

“Float” – music and lyrics by Bleu

“Strange Sight” – music and lyrics by Rob Cantor

“1000 Years” – music and lyrics by Bleu



TINKER BELL AND THE LEGEND OF THE NEVERBEAST- DISNEY
Genre: Animated Action/Adventure
Rating: G
Voice Cast: Ginnifer Goodwin, Mae Whitman, Rosario Dawson, Lucy Liu, Raven-Symoné, Megan Hilty, Pamela Adlon and Anjelica Huston
Director: Steve Loter
Producer: Michael Wigert, p.g.a.
In-Home Release Date: March 3, 2015

Disneytoon Studios returns to Pixie Hollow with the heartwarming adventure “Tinker Bell and the Legend of the NeverBeast.” The new story explores an ancient myth of a fabled creature whose distant roar sparks the curiosity of Tinker Bell’s good friend Fawn (voice of Ginnifer Goodwin), an animal fairy who’s not afraid to break the rules to help an animal in need. But this animal—massive and strange with glowing green eyes—is not really welcome in Pixie Hollow, and the scout fairies are determined to capture the mysterious beast before it destroys their home. Fawn, who sees a tender heart beneath his gruff exterior, must convince Tink (voice of Mae Whitman) and the girls to risk everything to rescue the NeverBeast before time runs out. Directed by Steve Loter (“Kim Possible”) and produced by Michael Wigert (“Secret of the Wings”), “Tinker Bell and the Legend of the NeverBeast” roars to life in March 3, 2015.

The heartwarming adventure “Tinker Bell and the Legend of the NeverBeast” explores the ancient myth of a mysterious creature whose distant roar sparks the curiosity of Tinker Bell’s friend Fawn, an animal fairy who’s not afraid to break the rules to rescue the NeverBeast before time runs out.

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Friday, November 28, 2014

Young Actors Give Voice to Animated "The Peanuts Movie"

THE PEANUTS MOVIE Cast Announced

A Talented Team of Young Actors Give Voice to the Beloved Characters

LOS ANGELES--(BUSINESS WIRE)--“Wah wa-wah wa-wah wah. Wah wa-wah wa-wa wa wah wa-wah wa-wah wah wah wa-wah wa-wa wa wah. Wa-wah wa-wa wa wah wa-wah wa-wah wah wa-wah wa-wa wa wa-wah wah.”

    “Wah wa-wah wa-wah wah. Wah wa-wah wa-wa wa wah wa-wah wa-wah wah wah wa-wah wa-wa wa wah. Wa-wah wa-wa wa wah wa-wah wa-wah wah wa-wah wa-wa wa wa-wah wah.”

Aaugh! You’re a good man, Charlie Brown, but Twentieth Century Fox pulled the football out from under you and announced the voice casting for THE PEANUTS MOVIE today. The Great Houndini reports, “It was a dark and stormy night…”

Charlie Brown, Snoopy, Lucy, Linus and the rest of the cherished “Peanuts” gang will make their long awaited big-screen debut in stunning state of the art 3D animation.

Snoopy, the world’s most lovable beagle – and flying ace – embarks upon his greatest mission as he takes to the skies to pursue his arch-nemesis The Red Baron, while his best pal, Charlie Brown, begins his own epic quest.

From the imagination of Charles M. Schulz and the creators of the Ice Age films, good grief, THE PEANUTS MOVIE is more than just a chip off the ole BlockHead, it’s a doggone cinematic spectacle.

Noah Schnapp voices the role of Good ol’ Charlie Brown, the lovable loser who never gives up. The young actor recently filmed a role opposite Tom Hanks in director Steven Spielberg’s untitled Cold War thriller. Most recently, Noah wrapped work on the indie film We Only Know So Much, based on the book of the same title.

Hadley Belle Miller provides the voice for Lucy, known around the neighborhood (and by her little brother, Linus) for being crabby and bossy and humiliating Charlie Brown. Hadley’s voiceover credits include Sofia the First and Jake and the Neverland Pirates, and she has appeared on stage and in commercials.

AJ Tecce voices Pig-Pen, who happily travels in his own private dust storm. AJ appeared in the films Raising Ethan and Stereopsis, and in several commercials. He’s also done extensive voiceover work.

Noah Johnston is Schroeder, a mini musical genius who is rarely separated from his toy piano or his idol, Beethoven. Noah voiced a role in Monsters University, and his television credits include The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon, Late Show with David Letterman, and The Daily Show.

Newcomer Venus Schultheis voices Peppermint Patty, a fearless born leader and a natural athlete who is up to any challenge…except studying. Venus wants to be a nurse and a cosmetologist, working on people’s hair and nails while they are in the hospital or a nursing home. (If you see Venus's hair, you'll understand!) She enjoys snowboarding, skim boarding and tennis.

Alexander Garfin gives voice to Linus, the benevolent, blanket-clutching philosopher who always has a kind word for everybody…even his bossy older sister, Lucy. Alexander’s numerous credits include the feature Salt, the television series Law & Order SVU and Saturday Night Live, and on stage, On Borrowed Time – and You’re a Good Man, Charlie Brown.

Francesca Capaldi voices Little Red-Haired Girl, who has captured Charlie Brown’s heart; now, if only he could muster the courage to speak to her! Francesca had a guest-starring role in Disney’s A.N.T. Farm and on CBS’ How I Met Your Mother, is a series regular on Disney’s Dog with the Blog, and has appeared in the film 3-Day Test, as well as in several commercials.

Mar Mar voices Frankin, Charlie Brown’s good friend and confidant, and the only one who never has an unkind word about our hapless hero, or anyone else for that matter, Mar Mar has worked on the TV series Austin & Alley (on the Disney Channel), Guys with Kids, Bubble Guppies and Good Luck Charlie.

Mariel Sheets voices Sally, Charlie Brown’s little sister who believes the world owes her an answer for some of its most perplexing problems, such as: why does she have to go to school? Mariel has worked in film, appeared in national commercials, and done voiceovers for television, radio, and online.

Rebecca Bloom gives voice to Marcie, Peppermint Patty’s best friend, loyal follower, and complete opposite. Rebecca was featured on The Tonight Show, and has had roles on stage in Annie, The Jungle Book and How to Eat Like a Child.

William Alexander Wunsch voices Shermy, Charlie Brown’s friend, who is straight laced and dependable. William has extensive live performance experience, appeared in several commercials, and on Saturday Night Live with Jim Carrey.

Anastasia Bredikhina voices Patty, and Madisyn Shipman voices Violet – best friends who always side with the popular crowd. Anastasia is a trained actor, dancer, musician and model; Madisyn has appeared on Modern Love, Sesame Street, Saturday Night Live and The Daily Show.

THE PEANUTS MOVIE flies into theaters everywhere on November 6, 2015. That year marks the 65th anniversary of the debut of the “Peanuts” comic strip and the 50th anniversary of the landmark television special, “A Charlie Brown Christmas.”

Charles Schulz drew the most popular and influential comic strip of all time, which was read every day by 355 million people in 75 countries. In addition to the famous strip, Peanuts holiday television specials such as It’s The Great Pumpkin, Charlie Brown have won Emmys and are among the highest rated prime time TV specials.

Steve Martino directs THE PEANUTS MOVIE; previously, he brought to the big screen (with Jimmy Hayward) Fox/Blue Sky’s Dr. Seuss’ Horton Hears a Who! Martino also directed (with Michael Thurmeier) Fox’s recent box-office smash Ice Age: Continental Drift.

The screenplay is by Craig Schulz and the writing team of Bryan Schulz & Cornelius Uliano. Craig Schulz and Bryan Schulz, respectively Mr. Schulz’s son and grandson, along with Uliano and Paul Feig are producing. Feig, the director of the blockbuster comedies "Bridesmaids" and "The Heat" and the upcoming "Spy," is a lifelong "Peanuts" fan.

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Thursday, November 27, 2014

"Black Male Crisis" Doc on Indiegogo

Amy Berg, Nate Parker, and Matthew Cooke are working on a documentary related to the events in Ferguson, Missouri and about the crisis of young black males.  They are raising money via an Indiegogo crowdfunding campaign:


Happy Thanksgiving from Grumble Chapter One - Page 5


Page 5 is here: http://www.comicbookbin.com/grumbleonepage005.html



Tuesday, November 25, 2014

BET News to Air Ferguson Special on Wednesday, November 26, 2014

BET News to Air an All-New Special “Justice for Ferguson: A Community Reacts” about the Socially-Charged Community of Ferguson, Missouri Premiering Wednesday, November 26 at 10:30 PM ET/PT On BET

Hosted By BET News Correspondent Marc Lamont Hill, The Commercial-Free Half Hour Special Features All-new Exclusive Interviews And On The Ground Reporting

For more info go to www.bet.com/justiceforferguson and join the conversation by using hashtag: #BETJustice

NEW YORK--(BUSINESS WIRE)--BET News reports from the ground on events unfolding in Ferguson, Missouri where the tension has been mounting with anticipation of the grand jury's decision on whether or not to indict Officer Darren Wilson in the shooting death of Michael Brown. BET News captures new footage and exclusive interviews with Michael Brown Sr., Syreeta Meyers – mother of Von Derrick who was shot and killed by St. Louis Police 10 days after Mike Brown, Lost Voices – youth activists and new leaders of the protests in Ferguson, Damon Davis – an artist who created hands up poster and posted them all over Ferguson, James Knowles - Mayor of Ferguson, business owners in the heart of the protests and first-hand accounts from local residents. Hosted by BET News correspondent Marc Lamont Hill, “Justice For Ferguson: A Community Reacts” Premieres Wednesday, November 26 at 10:30pm ET/PT on BET.

BET News has traced this story from when it first made headlines to the rallies that mobilized people of all backgrounds to the streets demanding justice. In the half hour commercial-free news special, viewers will see how Ferguson is transforming in the months following the tragic shooting of Michael Brown. The Ferguson community is struggling to heal, but it’s also finding strength and mobilizing to make a difference.

Log on to BET.com/justiceforferguson for exclusive video content, up-to-the-minute updates on the case and compelling interviews. Join the conversation on social media by logging on to BET’s multiple social media platforms by using hashtag: #BETJustice; and following us @BETNews.

*All times are ET/PT.

About BET Networks
BET Networks, a subsidiary of Viacom Inc. (NASDAQ: VIA, VIAB), is the nation’s leading provider of quality entertainment, music, news and public affairs television programming for the African-American audience. The primary BET channel reaches more than 90 million households and can be seen in the United States, Canada, the Caribbean, the United Kingdom and sub-Saharan Africa. BET is the dominant African-American consumer brand with a diverse group of business extensions: BET.com, a leading Internet destination for Black entertainment, music, culture, and news; CENTRIC, a 24-hour entertainment network targeting the 25- to 54-year-old African-American audience; BET Digital Networks - BET Gospel and BET Hip Hop, attractive alternatives for cutting-edge entertainment tastes; BET Home Entertainment, a collection of BET-branded offerings for the home environment including DVDs and video-on-demand; BET Event Productions, a full-scale event management and production company with festivals and live events spanning the globe; BET Mobile, which provides ringtones, games and video content for wireless devices; and BET International, which operates BET in the United Kingdom and oversees the extension of BET network programming for global distribution.

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RANMA ½ Anime Limited Edition Blu-ray Set 4 Due December 9th 2014


VIZ MEDIA ANNOUNCES HOME MEDIA RELEASE OF RANMA ½ ANIME SERIES SET 4 LIMITED EDITION BLU-RAY BOX SET

Latest Collection Of Action Packed HD Episodes Of The Legendary Martial Arts Comedy Arrive In Time For The Holidays In A New 3-Disc Blu-Ray Set; Standard Edition DVD Set Also Available

VIZ Media, LLC (VIZ Media), the largest distributor and licensor of anime and manga in North America, delivers a fresh installment of action-packed RANMA ½ anime episodes as it announces the home media release on December 9th, 2014 of Set 4 in the continuing series of High Definition Limited Edition Blu-ray and HD Standard Edition DVD Box Sets. 

VIZ Media is releasing the revered gender-bending martial arts action comedy, based on the popular manga series created by Rumiko Takahashi, in the original Japanese series order across seven Limited Edition Blu-ray and DVD Box Sets. RANMA ½ is rated TV-14.

Arriving in time for the holidays, the RANMA ½ Limited Edition Blu-ray Box Set Set 4 carries an MSRP of $54.97 U.S. / $63.99 CAN. The set contains Episodes 70-92 on 3 discs, presented in full 1080p High Definition resolution with the series’ original, un-cropped 4:3 aspect ratio. Bonus features include clean openings and endings as well as series trailers. The set comes in a gorgeously illustrated chipboard box with embossed foil stamping.

The RANMA ½ Standard Edition DVD Set Set 4 also features 23 episodes presented in crisp HD with the original, un-cropped 4:3 aspect ratio, and bonus features that include clean openings and endings and trailers. The Standard Edition DVD set is available with an MSRP of $44.82 U.S. / $51.99 CAN.

The mayhem continues in the latest RANMA ½ home media release!! Shampoo visits Ranma, bringing a souvenir bell from China along with a Phantom Cat, who’s in search of a bride! Ranma will have to endure his fear of felines in order to defeat the Phantom Cat. Then, after a series of certain events, Ryoga becomes the strongest martial artist in the world. After that, Kuno gets his hands on a secret sword call the “Mangamaru,” which grants the user here wishes, and one of them is to have a date with the Pigtailed Girl! Finally, a mysterious foursome has come from China in search of the legendary Dragon’s Whisker and will stop at nothing to get it. But what is the Dragon’s Whisker and what does it have to do with Ranma?

RANMA ½ manga creator Rumiko Takahashi is one of Japan’s most prolific and respected manga artists and is the creator of several long running series including MAISON IKKOKU, RANMA ½, and INUYASHA – all published in North America by VIZ Media. The spotlight on her prolific career began in 1978 when she won an honorable mention in Shogakukan's annual New Comic Artist Contest for Those Selfish Aliens. Later that same year, her boy-meets-alien comedy series, Urusei Yatsura, was serialized in Weekly Shonen Sunday. This phenomenally successful manga series was adapted into anime format and also spawned a TV series and half a dozen theatrical-release movies, all incredibly popular. Takahashi followed up the success of her debut series with one blockbuster hit after another— MAISON IKKOKU ran from 1980 to 1987, RANMA ½ from 1987 to 1996, and INUYASHA from 1996 to 2008. Other notable works include MERMAID SAGA, RUMIC THEATER, ONE-POUND GOSPEL, and RIN-NE (all also published in North America by VIZ Media).

For more information on RANMA ½ or other award-winning anime titles from VIZ Media, please visit www.VIZ.com.

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Monday, November 24, 2014

"Interstellar" Travels Past $400 Million Worldwide Box Office

Christopher Nolan’s “Interstellar” Blasts Past $400 Million Worldwide

BURBANK, Calif.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--“Interstellar,” the critically acclaimed new film from Christopher Nolan, continues to soar worldwide, surpassing the $400 million mark in its third weekend in release. The announcement was made today by Veronika Kwan Vandenberg, President, International Distribution, Warner Bros. Pictures, and Megan Colligan Paramount Pictures’ President of Worldwide Distribution Marketing. To date, the film has earned $328.9 million internationally and $120.7 million domestically for a global total approaching $450 million and counting.

    “It is so thrilling to know that audiences of all ages—and the world over—have been captivated by Christopher Nolan’s ‘Interstellar.’ We are excited to see that the tremendous reaction to the film is being shared among moviegoers everywhere.”

The film, which had dominated the global box office in its first two weekends in release, had a phenomenal opening in China, where it has taken in an outstanding Rmb 505m ($82.5m) in the first 12 days in release and is already the second highest grossing film for the studio. The film is now the biggest Warner Bros. release ever in Korea and, in Russia, is already the highest-grossing Christopher Nolan film ever. It has shown incredible resilience, dropping only 21% in its second weekend and, over the third weekend, had an outstanding hold of -37% in a highly competitive marketplace.

Moviegoers wanting to take the journey on the largest possible canvas flocked to see “Interstellar” in IMAX theaters, generating a global total of $13.5 million in its third weekend. To date, the film has earned $33.3 million domestically and $38.7 million internationally for a worldwide total of $72 million on IMAX screens.

Said Colligan, “It is so thrilling to know that audiences of all ages—and the world over—have been captivated by Christopher Nolan’s ‘Interstellar.’ We are excited to see that the tremendous reaction to the film is being shared among moviegoers everywhere.”

Kwan Vandenberg stated, “Christopher Nolan and his remarkable cast and filmmaking team have delivered another compelling cinematic ride that demands to be experienced on the big screen. The response of both critics and audiences alike is a testament to the film’s originality, spectacular visuals and emotional heft, and we expect enthusiastic word of mouth to continue to propel box office returns as we head into the busy holiday season.”

Acclaimed filmmaker Christopher Nolan (“The Dark Knight” films, “Inception”) directed an international cast in “Interstellar,” led by Oscar winner Matthew McConaughey (“Dallas Buyers Club”), Oscar winner Anne Hathaway (“Les Misérables”), Oscar nominee Jessica Chastain (“Zero Dark Thirty”), Bill Irwin (“Rachel Getting Married”), Oscar winner Ellen Burstyn (“Alice Doesn’t Live Here Anymore”), Oscar nominee John Lithgow (“The World According to Garp,” “Terms of Endearment”) and Oscar winner Michael Caine (“The Cider House Rules”). The main cast also includes Casey Affleck, Wes Bentley, Mackenzie Foy, Topher Grace and David Gyasi.

“Interstellar” was written by Jonathan Nolan and Christopher Nolan. Emma Thomas, Christopher Nolan and Lynda Obst produced the film, with Jordan Goldberg, Jake Myers, Kip Thorne and Thomas Tull serving as executive producers.

Nolan’s behind-the-scenes creative team was led by director of photography Hoyte van Hoytema (“Her”), Oscar-nominated production designer Nathan Crowley (“The Dark Knight”), Oscar-nominated editor Lee Smith (“The Dark Knight”), and Oscar-nominated costume designer Mary Zophres (“True Grit”). The score was composed by Oscar winner Hans Zimmer (“The Dark Knight” trilogy, “The Lion King”). Oscar winner Paul Franklin (“Inception”) served as visual effects supervisor and Scott Fisher (“The Dark Knight Rises”) as special effects supervisor.

Warner Bros. Pictures and Paramount Pictures present, in association with Legendary Pictures, a Syncopy/Lynda Obst Productions production, a film by Christopher Nolan, “Interstellar.” The film has been rated PG-13 for some intense perilous action and brief strong language.

www.interstellarmovie.net

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Saturday, November 22, 2014

Grumble: Chapter One, Page 4 - The Title Page is On


Page 4 is here: http://www.comicbookbin.com/grumbleonepage004.html

This is a preview:


Negromancer News Bits and Bites for the Week of November 16 to 22, 2014 - Update #18


NEWS:

From YahooMovies:  LucasFilm has an animated feature film coming out early next year, Strange Magic.

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From DeadlineNY:  Oscar and Tony-winning director, Mike Nichols, has died at the age of 83.  The legendary film and theater director, writer and producer won an Oscar winner for 1967′s seminal The Graduate.  Nichols was also nominated for such films as Working Girl, Silkwood and Who’s Afraid Of Virginia Woolf?  Nichols amassed 10 Tony Awards, including winning as director for such plays as Barefoot In The Park, The Odd Couple, The Prisoner Of Second Avenue, and Death Of A Salesman; and winning as producer of the plays, Annie and The Real Thing.

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From YahooMovies:  Disney introduces a new kind of Cinderella.

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From Variety:  The #1 film at the November 14 to 16, 2014 box office is newcomer, Dumb and Dumber To, with an estimated take of $38.1 million.

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From FOXNews:  Jennifer Lawrence: I'm scared every time I open my door.

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From VarietyGlen A. Larson, the prolific writer and producer of many television series, died of cancer on Friday, November 14, 2014.  He created the real "Battlestar Galactica" in the 1970s, and worked on such series as "Magnum P.I." and "Knight Rider," among others.  R.I.P. Mr. Larson and we send condolences to his family and friends.

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From WashingtonPost:  Barbara Bowman's column with the rape allegations against Bill Cosby.

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From People:  Cosby's cancelled TV guest appearances.


COMIC BOOKS:

From WallStreetCheatSheet:  Chris Pratt, star of Guardians of the Galaxy, may star as another comic book hero, in the film adaptation of Cowboy Ninja Viking.

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From YahooGames:  The mystery blue alien on Marvel's "Agents of S.H.I.E.L.D." is a member of the Kree alien race.

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From YahooCelebrity:  The Hollywood Reporter says that Marvel is planning to release an Ant-Man novel, "Ant-Man: Natural Enemy."

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From DenofGeek:  The Marvel "release calendar" for its "Phase Three" films.

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From TV Guide via YahooTV:  A lost episode from the 1960's live action "Batman" television series is now a comic book.


STAR WARS:

From YahooMovies:  Rare photos at the British Film Institute.

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From IBTimes:  A supposed second description of the first teaser trailer for Episode 7.

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From EntertainmetIE:  Someone claims they've seen the upcoming Star Wars 7 trailer.

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From FlickeringMyth:  A supposed description of the first teaser trailer for "Star Wars: The Force Awakens."

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From IBTimes:  Rumors about a "Darth Bane" characters.


TRAILERS AND PREVIEWS:

From 20th Century Fox:  The first trailer for Blue Sky's "Peanuts" animated feature film debuts.

From 20th Century Fox:  The final trailer for Night at the Museum: Secret of the Tombs debuts.


MUSIC:

From BET:  New music from Beyonce is leaked.  May be tied to her new greatest hits collection.

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From YahooFinance:  How Michael Jackson and other dead entertainers are making big money.

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From the VillageVoice:  A piece about the late Big Bank Hank of the Sugar Hill Gang.


REVIEWS:

From the VillageVoice:  Stephanie Zacharek writes about Jon Stewart's Rosewater.

From the VillageVoice:  Amy Nicholson on Foxcatcher.


OBITS:

From RollingStone:  Motown hit maker, Jimmy Ruffin, is dead at 78.  His best known jam was "What Becomes of the Brokenhearted.

Friday, November 21, 2014

See Grumble Chapter One; Page 3 - Live!


Page 3 is here: http://www.comicbookbin.com/grumbleonepage003.html

This is a preview:







Review: Jennifer Lawrence Burns in "The Hunger Games: Catching Fire"

TRASH IN MY EYE No. 51 (of 2014) by Leroy Douresseaux

The Hunger Games: Catching Fire (2013)
Running time: 146 minutes (2 hours, 26 minutes)
Rating: MPAA – PG-13 for intense sequences of violence and action, some frightening images, thematic elements, a suggestive situation and language
DIRECTOR: Francis Lawrence
WRITERS: Simon Beaufoy and Michael deBruyn (based upon the novel by Suzanne Collins)
PRODUCERS: Nina Jacobson and Jon Kilik
CINEMATOGRAPHER: Jo Willems
EDITOR: Alan Edward Bell
COMPOSER: James Newton Howard
Golden Globe nominee

SCI-FI/DRAMA/THRILLER

Starring: Jennifer Lawrence, Josh Hutcherson, Liam Hemsworth, Woody Harrelson, Stanley Tucci, Lenny Kravitz, Donald Sutherland, Elizabeth Banks, Philip Seyour Hoffman, Jeffrey Wright, Amanda Plummer, Sam Claflin, Willow Shields, Paul Malcomson, Lynn Cohen, Jena Malone, and Toby Jones

The Hunger Games: Catching Fire is a 2013 dystopian science fiction film directed by Francis Lawrence, and it is also a direct sequel to the 2012 film, The Hunger GamesThe Hunger Games: Catching Fire is based upon Suzanne Collins’ 2009 novel, Catching Fire, the second novel in The Hunger Games trilogy.  In Catching Fire the movie, Katniss Everdeen becomes a target of the Capitol after her victory in the 74th Hunger Games sparks a rebellion.

The Hunger Games takes place in a post-apocalyptic future, and what was once North America is now the nation of Panem.  Panem is composed of 12 districts and The Capitol, which rules over the districts. Every year, The Capitol takes one boy and one girl (called “tributes”) from each of the 12 districts to become contestants in The Hunger Games.  Part entertainment and part intimidation of the 12 districts, these games are broadcast throughout Panem, and the 24 participants must fight to the death until only one of them remains alive – the victor.

The Hunger Games: Catching Fire opens a few months after the first film.  Katniss Everdeen (Jennifer Lawrence) and Peeta Mellark (Josh Hutcherson) were the winners of the 74th Hunger Games.  Now, the young victors have returned to their home, the impoverished District 12, and President Snow (Donald Sutherland) is waiting for Katniss.  Snow is upset that the outcome of the most recent Games has sparked rebellion in the districts of Panem, with Katniss' actions in the Games being the inspiration for rebellion in the districts.

Katniss (“The Girl on Fire”) and Peeta (“The Baker's Boy”) are going on a victory tour through the districts.  During this tour, Snow wants Katniss to sell the untrue idea that her actions in the Games were out of genuine love for Peeta and were not an act of defiance against the Capitol.  This scheme doesn't exactly work out.  So Snow calls for the 75th Hunger Games to be special.  These Games will be a “Quarter Quell,” and the tributes will be selected from previous victors.  Katniss and Peeta suddenly find themselves in the Games again, and this time, the target on Katniss' back comes from players inside and outside of the Games.

Catching Fire is the middle book in Suzanne Collin's Hunger Games trilogy, although the third book, Mockingjay, is being adapted as two film.  However, The Hunger Games: Catching Fire doesn't suffer the fate of some middle films in a trilogy.  Sometimes, the middle film can come across as filler material, or it can be packed with too many characters that are not important or too many subplots that won't be resolved until the third film.  An example of that is Pirates of the Caribbean: Dead Man's Chest, which was a collection of pointless action scenes that didn't really serve much of a purpose beyond titillating young males and selling lots of tickets.

Catching Fire the movie is intense and gripping, almost every scene is important, not just to what came before or what will come after, but also to the story being told now.  When I reviewed the first film two-and-a-half years ago, I wrote that I could say without reservation that The Hunger Games captures the sense of the life and death struggle of Katniss and her competitors.  I can say the same for Catching Fire.  Like its predecessor, this movie is driven by character drama and by intimate man vs. man confrontations/encounters that freely range from sudden romance and friendship to cold-bloodied murder and assorted calculated cruelties.

I will say that I think this film offers more characters than the story can present in full-measure, not revealing how rich and how important they are.  However, almost every character does enough to be interesting or intriguing, and there are many excellent performances.  Donald Sutherland is even better and more menacing as President Snow than he was in the first film.  Woody Harrelson manages to further develop Haymitch Abernathy, surprisingly showing that there is much more to the character than one might think.  Josh Hutcherson makes Peeta Mellark the dashing young hero and co-lead that he could not be in the first film, even if that was the intention.  And I'm always happy to see Jeffrey Wright, although I wish his character, Beetee Latier, had more meat on the bone i.e. substance.

Still, as was true in The Hunger Games, Jennifer Lawrence is everything to Catching Fire. Whatever problems this film may have, Lawrence’s skill-set as an actor delivers a performance that glosses over narrative and cinematic glitches.  She is a true movie star, and her radiant presence bleeds across the screen, leaving me awash in the essence of Katniss.  Pardon my lack of articulation, but Jennifer is the real deal.

In the first film, we watched a young woman, Katniss, who was a poor nobody, struggle to survive and ultimately to triumph, becoming a star and a legend.  Catching Fire depicts Katniss' struggle to accept her fate.  The adventure is calling the hero, and she has to be dragged towards her destiny.  This kind of story is an archetype, and when told correctly, it can be mesmerizing.  So, as she did before, Jennifer Lawrence makes The Hunger Games: Catching Fire more than it ought to be.

8 of 10
A

Thursday, November 20, 2014


NOTES:
2014 Golden Globes, USA:  1 nomination: “Best Original Song - Motion Picture” (Chris Martin, Guy Berryman, Jonny Buckland, and Will Champion for the song “Atlas”)

The text is copyright © 2014 Leroy Douresseaux. All Rights Reserved. Contact this site for syndication rights and fees.



Thursday, November 20, 2014

"Sailor Moon Moonlight Party 2" Set for Friday, November 21, 2014


VIZ MEDIA HOSTS SAILOR MOON MOONLIGHT PARTY 2 TO CELEBRATE NORTH AMERICAN PREMIERE OF LATEST DUBBED EPISODES

November 21st Virtual Live Stream Soiree Coincides With

Neon Alley Episode Premieres And Will Include Live Commentary, Real Time Q&A And Trivia Contests For SAILOR MOON Prizes

VIZ Media, LLC (VIZ Media), the largest distributor and licensor of manga and anime in North America, continues to celebrate the triumphant return of the classic SAILOR MOON anime series and marks the premiere of the latest high definition Episodes 24-36 – featuring the brand new English dub cast – available to stream on Neon Alley and Hulu starting on Friday, November 21st beginning at 7:00pm (PST). The release time and date for the remaining English episodes of this epic first season will be announced during the event. These latest exclusive dubbed episodes will be available for a limited time only during the Holiday season!

Fans can join in on the festivities with VIZ Media and Neon Alley by attending Moonlight Party 2: A Celebration of SAILOR MOON Reborn! Building on the success and positive fan feedback following the first Moonlight Party held in September, the free virtual party will take place once again as a unique live stream event on VIZ Media’s YouTube channel at: http://bit.ly/SMMnLtP2 beginning at 7:00pm (PST) on Friday, November 21st.

Fans are invited participate in the event and stream SAILOR MOON Episodes 24, 25, 33, 34 and 35 (showcasing Jupiter, Venus, and Princess Serenity) via Neon Alley/Hulu and also take part in a real-time Q&A with VIZ Media staff that will run throughout the evening. Viewers can submit questions throughout the event via YouTube, in the comments sections of the actual live stream (as available), or on the official VIZ Media Facebook page, and via Twitter using the special hashtag, #MoonlightParty,

Fans also can interact with members of the VIZ Media SAILOR MOON team, which will be present during the live stream to answer questions and offer lively commentary and little known information about the series and these new episodes. A SAILOR MOON trivia contest also will take place and fans and aspiring Sailor Guardians are invited to submit their answers via Facebook and Twitter to win special prizes. SAILOR MOON fans nationwide are also encouraged to share pictures from their own Moonlight Parties by using the hashtag #MoonlightParty on their favorite social media platforms.

Neon Alley is VIZ Media’s consolidated online destination for FREE streaming anime content in the U.S. with over 3,200 subtitled and English dubbed episodes and movies from more than 36 series!

In the latest SAILOR MOON episodes, Sailor Moon, Sailor Mercury and Sailor Mars continue their quest for the Legendary Silver Crystal as two new powerful allies join the fight. Sailor Jupiter is the tall and tough Guardian of Thunder, and Sailor Venus is the Guardian of Love and the most experienced member. Sailor Moon herself gets an impressive new power and learns more about the mysterious Tuxedo Mask. Could their distant pasts be intertwined, and does that have anything to do with the Moon Princess they seek? The final ordeal with Queen Beryl looms on the horizon, and it will take everything the Sailor Guardians have to be victorious!

“Thousands of fans joined us for our very first SAILOR MOON Moonlight Party, and the enthusiasm and love that was expressed for this iconic series inspired us to hold another event to mark the dub premiere of the concluding half of Season 1,” says Charlene Ingram, Senior Manager, Animation Marketing. “Not only will viewers catch the dub debut of Sailor Jupiter voiced by Amanda Miller, and Sailor Venus, voiced by Cherami Leigh, we’ll be sharing plenty of commentary and trivia, as well awarding lots of SAILOR MOON prizes. We look forward to everyone joining us and hope this event might inspire fans to hold some Sailor Guardian soirees of their own!” 

The smash hit SAILOR MOON anime series is inspired by the bestselling manga (graphic novel) series created by Naoko Takeuchi (published in North America by Kodansha). In the series, Usagi Tsukino is a clumsy but kindhearted teenage girl who transforms into the powerful guardian of love and justice, Sailor Moon. Meeting allies along the way who share similar fates, Usagi and her team of planetary Sailor Guardians fight to protect the universe from forces of evil and total annihilation! 

VIZ Media’s SAILOR MOON Season 1 Set 1 Limited Edition Blu-ray/DVD Combo Pack as well as the Standard Edition DVD set are both now available for purchase. The SAILOR MOON Season 1 Set 2 Blu-ray/DVD Combo Pack and Standard Edition DVD sets are now available for preorder from leading anime and video retailers.

Fans can also catch the brand new SAILOR MOON reboot – SAILOR MOON CRYSTAL – with new episodes (subtitled) available to stream each week on Hulu and Neon Alley.

For more information on SAILOR MOON, or other award-winning anime titles from VIZ Media, please visit www.VIZ.com.

Wednesday, November 19, 2014

"Annabelle" is Now the Highest Grossing Horror Film of 2014

New Line Cinema’s “Annabelle” is Unstoppable, Passing $250 Million in Global Box Office

The doll we love to hate scares her way to the top of 2014’s horror hit list

BURBANK, Calif.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--New Line Cinema’s “Annabelle” has now taken in over $250 million at the worldwide box office, with a tally of $250.2 million to date. The announcement was made today by Dan Fellman, President, Domestic Distribution, and Veronika Kwan Vandenberg, President, International Distribution, Warner Bros. Pictures.

    “‘Annabelle’ has continued to entertain audiences who love the horror genre. Congratulations to our partners at New Line and the talented filmmakers and cast who made this film such a far-reaching fan favorite.”

The supernatural thriller, from director John R. Leonetti and producers Peter Safran and James Wan, has taken in $83.8 million domestically and $166.4 million internationally, making it the highest grossing horror film of 2014 in both arenas, as well as worldwide.

Fellman, in making the announcement, stated, “‘Annabelle’ has continued to entertain audiences who love the horror genre. Congratulations to our partners at New Line and the talented filmmakers and cast who made this film such a far-reaching fan favorite.”

Kwan Vandenberg added, “John, James and Peter delivered a film that has resonated globally, giving moviegoers everywhere the kind of exhilaration that keeps them coming back for more.”

She terrified you in “The Conjuring,” but this is where it all began for Annabelle.

Capable of unspeakable evil, the actual doll exists locked up in an occult museum in Connecticut—visited only by a priest who blesses her twice a month.

New Line Cinema’s supernatural thriller “Annabelle” begins before the evil was unleashed.

John Form has found the perfect gift for his expectant wife, Mia—a beautiful, rare vintage doll in a pure white wedding dress. But Mia’s delight with Annabelle doesn’t last long. On one horrific night, their home is invaded by members of a satanic cult, who violently attack the couple. Spilled blood and terror are not all they leave behind. The cultists have conjured an entity so malevolent that nothing they did will compare to the sinister conduit to the damned that is now…Annabelle.

Annabelle Wallis (“X-Men: First Class”) and Ward Horton (“The Wolf of Wall Street”) star as the Forms. Oscar nominee Alfre Woodard (“Cross Creek,” “Twelve Years a Slave”) stars as Evelyn, a neighbor who owns a bookstore. Rounding out the cast are Kerry O’Malley (TV’s “Those Who Kill”) and Brian Howe (“Devil’s Knot”) as neighbors Sharon and Pete Higgins; Tony Amendola (TV’s “Once Upon A Time”) as Father Perez; and Eric Ladin (TV’s “Boardwalk Empire”) as Detective Clarkin.

“Annabelle” reunites the filmmakers behind 2013’s hugely successful supernatural thriller “The Conjuring.” John R. Leonetti, who served as cinematographer on “The Conjuring,” directed the film. James Wan, director of the global hit, produced “Annabelle” with Peter Safran.

Gary Dauberman wrote the script. Richard Brener, Walter Hamada, Dave Neustadter and Hans Ritter served as the executive producers. Also joining Leonetti behind the scenes were director of photography James Kniest, production designer Bob Ziembicki, editor Tom Elkins, and costume designer Janet Ingram. Joseph Bishara composed the score.

New Line Cinema presents an Atomic Monster/Safran Company Production, “Annabelle.” The film has been rated R for intense sequences of disturbing violence and terror. It is being distributed by Warner Bros. Pictures, a Warner Bros. Entertainment company.

www.annabellemovie.com

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Tuesday, November 18, 2014

"Interstellar" Soundtrack on Sale Today, Nov. 18th, 2014

INTERSTELLAR SOUNDTRACK WITH MUSIC BY HANS ZIMMER OUT NOV 18

THREE VERSIONS TO BE MADE AVAILABLE INCLUDING A STAR WHEEL CONSTELLATION CHART DIGIPAK AND AN ILLUMINATED STAR PROJECTION EDITION WITH BONUS DISC

WaterTower Music proudly announces the Tuesday, November 18, 2014 release of Interstellar: Original Motion Picture Soundtrack, with music by renowned composer Hans Zimmer, whose career has earned him Grammy, Golden Globe, Classical Brit, Academy, Tony, and American Music Awards. The soundtrack will be available in three configurations: a Star Wheel Constellation Chart Digipak, a deluxe digital-only version, and an Illuminated Star Projection Edition with bonus content (coming later this year).

Interstellar, from Paramount Pictures and Warner Bros. Pictures, pairs the creative forces of Hans Zimmer and esteemed director Christopher Nolan, who collaborated previously on The Dark Knight film trilogy and Inception. “Chris wanted us to push the limits,” offers Zimmer. “Every conversation was about pushing boundaries and exploring new territories. This movie virtually dictates that you put everything on the line and keep the laboratory doors wide open and experiment to the very end. It tested our limits: the limits of what musicians are capable of, the limits of what could be recorded, the limits of everyone's stamina, commitment and invention, and I think we got it.”

"I believe that Hans’ score for Interstellar has the tightest bond between music and image that we’ve yet achieved,” Nolan reflected. “And we’re excited for people to be able to revisit the soundtrack once they’ve had the chance to experience the music in the film itself."

Each release is now available for pre-order.  The Star Wheel Constellation Digipak and the Digital Deluxe Album will be available November 18, and the Illuminated Star Projection Edition is scheduled to ship later this year.

·       Star Wheel Constellation Chart Digipak (Pre-Order): contains 16 tracks from the film

·       Digital Deluxe Album (Pre-Order) includes 22 songs from the film

·       The Illuminated Star Projection Edition (Pre-Order) features special illuminated star projection packaging, 2 CDs featuring 28 tracks, including 30 minutes of music unavailable anywhere else, and more. 

“INTERSTELLAR” opens with advance screenings in IMAX® 70mm film, 70mm film and 35mm film formats on Wednesday, November 5th, two days ahead of its nationwide release on November 7th. The advance showings will play in select theaters in more than 240 locations across the U.S. and Canada.

“INTERSTELLAR” stars Matthew McConaughey, Anne Hathaway, Jessica Chastain, Bill Irwin, Ellen Burstyn, John Lithgow and Michael Caine. With our time on Earth coming to an end, a team of explorers undertakes the most important mission in human history; traveling beyond this galaxy to discover whether mankind has a future among the stars. Directed by Christopher Nolan, written by Jonathan Nolan and Christopher Nolan, and produced by Emma Thomas, Christopher Nolan and Lynda Obst.

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"InuYasha: The Final Act" Debuts on Toonami

VIZ MEDIA ANNOUNCES PREMIERE OF INUYASHA: THE FINAL ACT ON TOONAMI

Venerable Fantasy Action Anime Series Reaches Grand Finale

VIZ Media, LLC (VIZ Media), the largest distributor and licensor of manga and anime in North America, is proud to announce the domestic broadcast premiere of INUYASHA: THE FINAL ACT, the finale to the long-running animated adventure saga, set to be broadcast on Adult Swim’s Toonami.

The first episode of the final story arc of the famed action/adventure/fantasy anime series will premiere at 2:00am on Sunday, November 16th, 2014 with future episodes to air each subsequent Sunday. Check local listings for channel availability and specific regional broadcast times. Adult Swim’s (AdultSwim.com) Toonami is the Turner Broadcasting System, Inc.’s network for offering original and acquired animated and live-action series for young adults.

INUYASHA: THE FINAL ACT is based on the massively popular manga series (also published by VIZ Media, rated ‘T+’ for Older Teens) by famed creator Rumiko Takahashi. The INUYASHA anime series has run for 193 episodes in total and has also spawned several popular feature films. Pulled back in time to Japan's ancient past, Japanese high school girl Kagome finds her destiny linked to a dog-like half-demon named Inuyasha, who remembers Kagome's previous incarnation as the woman who killed him - and to the Shikon Jewel, or "Jewel of Four Souls," which can fulfill the greatest dreams of any man or monster. Now Kagome and Inuyasha must work together to search for the scattered shards of the jewel before everyone's nightmares are given the power they need to come true.

INUYASHA: THE FINAL ACT offers the culmination of the epic quest to restore the shattered Shikon Jewel. In the final episodes, the half-demon Inuyasha and modern schoolgirl Kagome face the deadly and cunning enemy demon mastermind, Naraku. With the Shikon Jewel nearly whole, the race to collect the remaining shards intensifies and a battle of epic proportions is brewing on the horizon!

“This legendary anime series reaches its ultimate conclusion with the exciting premiere of THE FINAL ACT on Toonami and plenty of action and quite a few plot surprises are in-store as Inuyasha and Kagome finally see the realization of their quest to restore the Shikon Jewel,” says Charlene Ingram, Senior Marketing Manager of Animation. “INUYASHA first premiered on Toonami and the series has played a pivotal role in helping to spawn the massive popularity that manga and anime now enjoys in North America. It’s very fitting that Toonami hosts the grand finale of one of anime’s most famous properties. Don’t miss the exciting premiere this weekend!”

Fans also can explore colorful INUYASHA art books and the complete manga series, which is published in North America by VIZ Media, along with the entire anime series and related INUYASHA animated feature films available on DVD.

For more information on INUYASHA and other anime and manga titles from VIZ Media, please visit www.VIZ.com.

About VIZ Media, LLC
Headquartered in San Francisco, California, VIZ Media distributes, markets and licenses the best anime and manga titles direct from Japan.  Owned by three of Japan's largest manga and animation companies, Shueisha Inc., Shogakukan Inc., and Shogakukan-Shueisha Productions, Co., Ltd., VIZ Media has the most extensive library of anime and manga for English speaking audiences in North America, the United Kingdom, Ireland and South Africa. With its popular digital manga anthology WEEKLY SHONEN JUMP and blockbuster properties like NARUTO, BLEACH and ONE PIECE, VIZ Media offers cutting-edge action, romance and family friendly properties for anime, manga, science fiction and fantasy fans of all ages.  VIZ Media properties are available as graphic novels, DVDs, animated television series, feature films, downloadable and streaming video and a variety of consumer products.  Learn more about VIZ Media, anime and manga at www.VIZ.com.

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Monday, November 17, 2014

Rosario Dawson Joins Voice Cast of "Tinker Bell and the Legend of the Neverbeast"



“TINKER BELL AND THE LEGEND OF THE NEVERBEAST”: ROSARIO DAWSON AS THE VOICE OF ’NYX’ AND INTRODUCING THE SCOUT FAIRIES

Actress Rosario Dawson lends her voice as a fiery and courageous fairy, “Nyx”, in the all-new Disney Fairies adventure, “Tinker Bell and the Legend of the NeverBeast”, out on Blu-ray™ March 3, 2015.

Nyx is a Scout Fairy charged with protecting the luscious land of Pixie Hollow and all of the fairies who reside there. A true professional who takes her job very seriously—maybe a little too seriously—allowing facts and logic to guide her every move. Driven to succeed, Nyx is often willing to let compassion take a back seat.  The Scout Fairies are a group of fearless fairies who protect the residents of Pixie Hollow. They are agile and athletic with a keen ability to spot trouble before it gets out of control.

This heartwarming story explores the ancient myth of a mysterious creature whose distant roar sparks the curiosity of Tinker Bell’s friend Fawn, an animal fairy who’s not afraid to break the rules to rescue the NeverBeast before time runs out.  The film also features the voices of Ginnifer Goodwin (Fawn), Mae Whitman (Tinker Bell), Megan Hilty (Rosetta), Lucy Liu (Silvermist), Raven Symone (Iradessa), Angelica Huston (QueenClarion) and is directed by Steve Loter (“Kim Possible”) and produced by Makul Wigert (“Secret of the Wings”).

Watch the new trailer of TINKER BELL AND THE LEGEND OF THE NEVERBEAST on YouTube: http://youtu.be/EAEOfgqqDMY

TINKER BELL AND THE LEGEND OF THE NEVERBEAST
DISNEY
Genre: Animated Action/Adventure
Rating: TBA

Voice Cast: Mae Whitman (Tinker Bell) Ginnifer Goodwin (Fawn), Megan Hilty (Rosetta), Lucy Liu (Silvermist), Raven Symone (Iridessa), Anjelica Huston (Queen Clarion)

Director: Steve Loter
Producer: Makul Wigert

Disneytoon Studios returns to Pixie Hollow with the heartwarming adventure “Legend of the NeverBeast.” The new story explores an ancient myth of a fabled creature whose distant roar sparks the curiosity of Tinker Bell’s good friend Fawn, an animal fairy who’s not afraid to break the rules to help an animal in need. But this animal—massive and strange with glowing green eyes—is not really welcome in Pixie Hollow, and the scout fairies are determined to capture the mysterious beast before it destroys their home. Fawn, who sees a tender heart beneath his gruff exterior, must convince Tink and the girls to risk everything to rescue the NeverBeast before time runs out. Directed by Steve Loter (“Kim Possible”) and produced by Makul Wigert (“Secret of the Wings”), “Legend of the NeverBeast” roars to life in March 3, 2015.


"Death Note: The Complete Series" Arrives Tuesday, November 18, 2014

CELEBRATED SUPERNATURAL SUSPENSE THRILLER DEATH NOTE RETURNS TO NORTH AMERICA IN A NEW COMPLETE DVD COLLECTION

VIZ Media Announces DEATH NOTE: THE COMPLETE SERIES Featuring All 37 Episodes Of The Acclaimed Paranormal Anime Crime Drama On 10 DVDs

VIZ Media delivers one of the greatest anime series to ever come to North America in a comprehensive complete collection with the release of DEATH NOTE: THE COMPLETE SERIES on Tuesday, November 18th, 2014.

The new set is sure to capture the attention of anime fans and collectors and contains all 37 episodes of the acclaimed paranormal crime thriller on 10 DVDs. DEATH NOTE: THE COMPLETE SERIES will carry an MSRP of $44.82 U.S. / $52.99 CAN.

Dialogue features include English and Japanese 2.0 stereo audio and available English subtitle options. Over two hours of bonus features include insightful interviews with the DEATH NOTE creators, behind-the-scenes footage of the original Japanese voice cast, a production art gallery, and more!

The DEATH NOTE anime series is based on a bestselling manga series written by Tsugumi Ohba and illustrated by Takeshi Obata. Light Yagami is a genius high school student who is about to learn about life through a book of death. When a bored Shinigami, a god of Death, named Ryuk drops a black notepad called a Death Note, Light receives power over life and death with the stroke of a pen. Determined to use this dark gift for the best, Light sets out to rid the world of evil ... namely the people he believes to be evil. Should anyone hold such power? The consequences of Light's actions will set the world ablaze.

Also catch the complete 12-volume DEATH NOTE manga (graphic novel) series (rated ‘T+’ for Older Teens), published in print by VIZ Media and available as individual volumes, 2-in-1 omnibus “Black Editions,” and also as a collected manga box set. The manga series also is available digitally from VIZManga.com and the VIZ Manga App as well as from a variety of digital partner’s proprietary platforms.

For more information on DEATH NOTE, please visit: deathnote.viz.com.

For more information on anime and manga titles distributed and published by VIZ Media, please visit: www.viz.com.

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Saturday, November 15, 2014

VIZ Media Announces Four New Blu-ray Releases for 2014 Holiday Shopping

VIZ MEDIA OFFERS FANS A VIVID SELECTION OF EXCITING ANIME RELEASES FOR THE HOLIDAYS

Dive Into Exciting New And Continuing Series With Bu-ray And DVD Releases For GARGANTIA ON THE VERDUROUS PLANET, SAILOR MOON, RANMA ½, And The Latest Action-Packed NARUTO SHIPPUDEN Feature Film

VIZ Media, LLC (VIZ Media), the largest distributor and licensor of anime and manga in North America, gives fans a wide array of exciting new anime releases to consider for wish and gift lists this holiday season.

New and veteran fans are invited to dive into legendary anime series such as the newly dubbed and uncut SAILOR MOON and RANMA ½ with box sets that also contain a wealth of extra features and special bonus material. VIZ Media is also proud to present GARGANTIA ON THE VERDUROUS PLANET, the vivid sci-fi/action series from the famed anime studio, Production IG, presented in a comprehensive DVD and Blu-ray/DVD combo pack. Fans of the world’s most popular ninja, Naruto, will not want to miss the hero’s latest animated feature film, THE ROAD TO NINJA: NARUTO THE MOVIE, which also will be available on DVD and Blu-ray formats.

New Anime Series Holiday Debuts:

GARGANTIA ON THE VERDUROUS PLANET · Blu-ray/DVD Combo Pack MSRP: $69.99 U.S. / $81.99 CAN; DVD MSRP: $44.82 U.S. / $51.99 CAN · Available Now! 

In the distant future, Ledo, a young soldier from space wakes up and finds himself marooned on an ocean planet. Growing up in space, and knowing nothing but battle, he is a stranger in a strange land, full of odd customs and a foreign language, but he’s not alone. Starting a new journey on this verdurous planet, Ledo must find a way to survive and reconcile the fact that he may never be able to return home!

VIZ Media gives GARGANTIA ON THE VERDUROUS PLANET a collection-worthy treatment with a 16x9 high definition presentation and the inclusion of 2 bonus OVA episodes. The home media releases feature premium packaging with an O-Card for the DVD edition and an illustrated chipboard box with a full-color 2-sided Amaray™ wrap and a special GARGANTIA ON THE VERDUROUS PLANET art book included with the Blu-ray/DVD Combo Pack

RANma ½ Set 4 · Limited Edition Blu-ray MSRP: $54.97 U.S. / $63.99 CAN; DVD MSRP: $44.82 U.S. / $51.99 CAN · Available December 2nd! 

The Mayhem continues in the latest RANMA ½ home media set!! Shampoo visits Ranma, bringing a souvenir bell from China along with a Phantom Cat, who’s in search of a bride! Ranma will have to endure his fear of felines in order to defeat the Phantom Cat. Then, after a series of certain events, Ryoga becomes the strongest martial artist in the world. After that, Kuno gets his hands on a secret sword call the “Mangamaru,” which grants the user here wishes, and one of them is to have a date with the Pigtailed Girl! Finally, a mysterious foursome has come from China in search of the legendary Dragon’s Whisker and will stop at nothing to get it. But what is the Dragon’s Whisker and what does it have to do with Ranma? Set contains Episodes 70-92 on 3 Blu-ray or DVD discs housed in a gorgeously illustrated chipboard box with embossed foil stamping.

Fan Favorite Holiday Debuts:

THE ROAD TO NINJA: NARUTO THE MOVIE · Blu-ray Combo Pack MSRP:  $29.99 U.S. / $37.48 CAN; DVD MSRP: $19.98 U.S. / $34.98 CAN · Available November 25th! 

In ROAD TO NINJA – NARUTO THE MOVIE, long ago, a mysterious masked shinobi unleashed the Nine-Tailed Fox onto the Village Hidden in the Leaves to spread chaos and destruction. But the Fourth Hokage, Minato Namikaze, and his wife Kushina Uzumaki sealed the Tailed Beast into their newborn son, Naruto, to save the village, foiling the shinobi’s plan. Years later, Naruto and his friends succeed in driving away the infamous Akatsuki, who have mysteriously returned from the dead. Upon returning to the village, the young shinobi are praised by their families for completing a dangerous mission. Reminded of how alone he is, Naruto begins to wonder what it’s like to have parents, when a strange masked figure appears before him – the same masked shinobi responsible for the death of his parents!

The Blu-ray edition features crisp 1080p High Definition video and also includes a special bonus art gallery.

SAILOR MOON SEASON 1 SET 1 · Limited Edition Blu-ray/DVD MSRP: $79.98 U.S. / $93.99 CAN; DVD MSRP: $44.82 U.S. / $51.99 CAN · Available Now! 

SAILOR MOON depicts the adventures of Usagi Tsukino, a cheerful 14-year-old schoolgirl who often finds herself in unwanted trouble. One day, she saves a talking cat named Luna from some mean kids, and her life is changed forever. Luna gives Usagi a magic brooch that transforms her into Sailor Moon, guardian of love and justice! Now Usagi must work with Luna to find the other Sailor Guardians and the Moon Princess, whose Legendary Silver Crystal is Earth’s only hope against the dark forces of the evil Queen Beryl!

The stunning SAILOR MOON Limited Edition Blu-ray/DVD Combo Pack offers a deluxe, 6-disc collection (3 DVDs & 3 Blu-rays), housed in a beautiful shimmery holofoil chipboard box with specialty printing, and contains an array of exclusive extra features along with an 88-page full-color booklet filled with artwork, character profiles, an episode guide, lyrics, and more! Blu-ray episodes are presented in full 1080p High Definition video

For more information on anime titles from VIZ Media, please visit www.VIZ.com.

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