Monday, June 10, 2019

VIZ Media Announces June 2019 Media Releases

VIZ MEDIA WELCOMES SUMMER WITH NEW ANIME AND MANGA RELEASES FOR JUNE

Catch The Home Media Debuts Of SAILOR MOON SAILOR STARS, MEGALOBOX And New Publishing Releases For EVANGELION, POKÉMON, DRAGON BALL, And More

June anime home media debuts include the highly-anticipated Season 5 of SAILOR MOON, SAILOR MOON SAILOR STARS PART 1 on Blu-ray and DVD, and the complete series run of the acclaimed boxing anime, MEGALOBOX on Blu-ray and DVD. The exciting series finale of the long-running ninja action saga concludes in NARUTO SHIPPUDEN DVD Set 38.

New manga publishing titles for June include KOMI CAN’T COMMUNICATE, a coming-of-age drama about a high school girl’s struggle to overcome her severe social anxiety. A bold art book exploring the widespread impact of Neon Genesis Evangelion on popular culture arrives with EVANGELION ILLUSTRATIONS 2007 - 2017.

Under license from The Pokémon Company International, POKÉMON THE MOVIE: THE POWER OF US—ZERAORA’S STORY, prequel companion to the animated film POKÉMON THE MOVIE: THE POWER OF US, also debuts next month. Meanwhile, Akira Toriyama fans can look forward to collecting long-awaited reissues of the DRAGON BALL and DRAGON BALL Z manga box sets. Each box set includes a special bonus booklet and poster along with Son Goku’s iconic adventures.

New Home Media Releases for June 2019:

SAILOR MOON SAILOR STARS PART 1 Blu-ray & DVD Sets
Limited Edition Blu-ray MSRP: $79.99 U.S. / $93.99 CAN · Standard Edition Blu-ray MSRP: $69.99 U.S. / $81.99 CAN · DVD MSRP: $39.99 U.S. / $51.99 CAN - Available June 18th

Sailor Moon and the Sailor Guardians are about to face their greatest challenge yet—high school! But as the girls take their next big step in life and Chibi-Usa prepares to return to the future, a mysterious force frees the evil Queen Nehalennia! While the struggle to contain her old enemy will be difficult, it may be Mamoru’s year of studying abroad that hurts Usagi the most. But there’s even more to take Usagi’s mind off of long-distance love with the arrival of the villainous Sailor Anima Mates and the heroic Sailor Star Lights! Who could be behind this new wave of evil? And why are the Star Lights resistant to working with Sailor Moon? Usagi has her hands full, but she’ll always make time to write a love letter to her beloved Mamo.

MEGALOBOX Blu-ray & DVD Sets
Limited Edition Blu-ray MSRP: $69.99 U.S. / $81.99 CAN · Standard Edition Blu-ray MSRP: $44.98 U.S. / $52.99 CAN · DVD MSRP: $39.99 U.S. / $51.99 CAN - Available June 25th

Bored, resigned, and unfulfilled, a young man with neither name nor past survives by fighting in underground matches of a sport called "Megalobox," a form of boxing that utilizes powered exoskeletons. Calling himself JNK.DOG, he feels trapped in a world of crime, poverty, and ecological collapse. All that changes when he has a chance encounter with Yuri, the reigning king of Megalobox. Now, obsessed with proving himself, JNK.DOG becomes a man driven to do whatever it takes to fight his way to the top of the rankings and take on the champion.

NARUTO SHIPPUDEN DVD SET 38
DVD MSRP: $39.99 U.S. / $51.99 CAN · Available June 11th

It’s the final NARUTO SHIPPUDEN box set! The Fourth Great Ninja War is over, and now the Hidden Leaf Ninja return to their daily lives. Some tackle dangerous work—like Sasuke, who tries to uncover the truth about mysterious exploding humans. Others, like Shikamaru, face the difficulty of adjusting to a post-war life. And for Naruto and Hinata, it's wedding bells!

New Publishing Releases for June 2019:

EVANGELION ILLUSTRATIONS 2007 - 2017
MSRP: $34.99 U.S. / $46.99 CAN · Available June 11th 

Neon Genesis Evangelion is one of the most enduring and significant touchstones for anime, manga, and pop culture fans over the past two decades, thanks to the groundbreaking television series and beautifully animated movies. This book collects ten years’ worth of illustrations that showcase the wide effect NEON GENESIS EVANGELION has left on not just the animation industry, but on popular culture in general. Included are illustrations for film posters, CD albums, bullet train designs, video game collaborations, and much, much more.

KOMI CAN’T COMMUNICATE by Tomohito Oda
MSRP: $9.99 U.S. / $12.99 CAN / $6.99 Digital · Rated ‘T’ for Teens - Available June 11th 

Socially anxious high school student Shoko Komi’s greatest dream is to make some friends, but everyone at school mistakes her crippling social anxiety for cool reserve. Luckily she meets Tadano, a timid wallflower who decides to step out of his comfort zone in order to help her achieve her goal of making 100 friends.

DRAGON BALL COMPLETE BOX SET by Akira Toriyama
MSRP: $139.99 U.S. / $179.99 CAN · Rated ‘T’ For Teens · Available June 4th 

The DRAGON BALL COMPLETE BOX SET contains all 16 volumes of the original manga that kicked off the global phenomenon. Also includes an exclusive double-sided poster and collector’s booklet featuring fun DRAGON BALL trivia and guides as well as an interview with its legendary creator.

DRAGON BALL Z COMPLETE BOX SET by Akira Toriyama
MSRP: $219.99 U.S. / $279.99 CAN · Rated ‘A’ For All Ages · Available June 4th 

The DRAGON BALL Z COMPLETE BOX SET contains all 26 volumes of the manga that propelled the global phenomenon that started with DRAGON BALL into one of the world’s most recognizable and best-selling manga. Also includes an exclusive double-sided poster and collector’s booklet featuring fun DRAGON BALL Z trivia and guides as well as an interview with Akira Toriyama.

POKÉMON THE MOVIE: THE POWER OF US—ZERAORA’S STORY by Kemon Kawamoto
MSRP: $9.99 U.S. / $12.99 CAN · Rated ‘A’ For All Ages · Available June 11th 

Ash and Pikachu arrive in Fula City at the start of its renowned Wind Festival and meet Margo, the mayor’s daughter, and Dr. Hawthorn, a scientist. Through the magic of Dr. Hawthorn’s virtual reality technology, our friends experience the history of the city firsthand and meet Mythical Pokémon Zeraora and Legendary Pokémon Lugia. Why did one of them fly off, never to be seen again…? And will it return in the feature film, Pokémon the Movie: The Power of Us?!

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

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Sunday, June 9, 2019

"Ghostbusters 35th" Leads to New Film in 2020

Sony Pictures Launches Ghostbusters™ 35th Anniversary Celebration
Year-Long Celebration of the Iconic Franchise Extends Across the Consumer Products and Entertainment Spectrums and Culminates with the 2020 Release of the Newest Installment in the Film Series

CULVER CITY – To coincide with the 35th anniversary of Ghostbusters, first released in U.S. theaters on June 8, 1984, Sony Pictures is launching “Ghostbusters 35th,” a year-long celebration of the iconic multi-media franchise, it was announced today by Jeffrey Godsick, EVP of Brand Strategy and Global Partnerships for Sony Pictures. The event represents a collaboration between several Sony Corporation divisions and will lead up to the newest installment in the film series to be released in theaters in 2020.

“Ghostbusters 35th” activations extend across the consumer products and entertainment spectrums and include toys, collectibles, fashion and apparel, theatrical, live events, music, gaming, home entertainment and publishing. Exciting new events and activations will be announced in the coming months.

“Ghostbusters has been entertaining and delighting audiences of all ages for the past 35 years, and this milestone provides the perfect opportunity for a celebration of the franchise and the impact it’s had on popular culture,” said Godsick. “The level of interest from our divisions within Sony Corporation as well as our external partners is a testament to the enduring power of the Ghostbusters brand. Together we’ve curated a year-long event that has something for everyone, from long-time fans to those new to the Ghostbusters universe.”,

“It’s been truly gratifying that what we created 35 years ago has continued to entertain and resonate with two generations of audiences,” said Ivan Reitman, producer and director of Ghostbusters and 1989’s Ghostbusters II. “This is a momentous occasion, and we’ve had a great time collaborating with our friends at Sony to put together this unique year-long celebration of all things Ghostbusters.”

The first announcement of “Ghostbusters 35th” event activations includes:

All-New “Ghostbusters 35th” Consumer Products – Wide-ranging line of first-ever 35th anniversary celebratory products that includes toys, collectibles, halo fashion, apparel and gaming. Licensees include PLAYMOBIL®, K-Swiss/Footlocker, Funko, BATHING APE®, PopMinded by Hallmark and Bixler Jewelry.

Ghostbusters/Transformers Collaboration – The two beloved franchises (both celebrating 35th anniversaries in 2019) will unite for cross-over toys, a comic book series and Mad Engine apparel. Hasbro will release the Transformers-Ghostbusters Collaborative figure, the ECTO-1 ECTOTRON, available at GameStop this summer and currently for pre-order at HasbroPulse.com, GameStop and EB Games Canada.

The five-issue comic series, “Transformers / Ghostbusters,” will debut this month and is written and illustrated by the long-time fan-favorite Ghostbusters creative team of Erik Burnham, Dan Schoening and Luis Antonio Delgado and published by IDW Comics.

First-Ever Ghostbusters Fan Fest – Presented by Wizard World, this once-in-a-lifetime event on June 8, 2019 at the Sony Pictures Studio Lot in Culver City, CA is a celebration of the Ghostbusters universe that will feature opportunities for fans to meet and hear from the original cast and filmmakers, including director/producer Ivan Reitman, actor/screenwriter Dan Aykroyd and actor Ernie Hudson. In addition, writer/director Jason Reitman will share early details about the newest film in the Ghostbusters series to be released in 2020. Attendees will also have access to exclusive programming and attractions, limited edition merchandise, collectibles and more.

Limited Edition Ghostbusters 35th Anniversary Sony WALKMAN – Ghostbusters and Sony WALKMAN, two iconic brands that first came to prominence in the 1980s and have each made a huge impact on popular culture, join together for the Limited Edition Ghostbusters 35th anniversary-themed WALKMAN. Designed by Sony Home Entertainment & Sound Products, Inc., this WALKMAN will make its debut at the Ghostbusters Fan Fest in Culver City on June 8, 2019, where it’ll be awarded to the first two fans who purchase the KSwiss limited Ghostbusters shoes. Only 100 units have been created which will be used for promotional events and prizing.

Global Ghostbusters in Concert Live Orchestra Tour – Ongoing tour that will visit over 40 cities worldwide and features a screening of Ghostbusters accompanied by local symphony orchestras performing live Elmer Bernstein’s Grammy-nominated score and Ray Parker Jr.’s Billboard Hot 100 chart-topping theme song, “Ghostbusters.”

Ghostbusters Theatrical Re-Release – In partnership with Fathom Events, Sony Pictures will re-release the original 1984 Ghostbusters in theaters nationwide on October 6 & 10, 2019.

Ghostbusters Original Motion Picture Score 35th Anniversary Edition – Sony Music special 35th anniversary edition of the original motion picture score with music by legendary composer Elmer Bernstein. Available June 7, 2019 on CD and digital formats (standard and hi-resolution) and on vinyl July 19, 2019. The collection features music from the iconic blockbuster, newly mixed and remastered from the score’s original multi-tracks, as well as new artwork, commentary from Elmer Bernstein’s son, Peter, and four previously unreleased tracks.

Ghostbusters I & II Limited Edition Home Entertainment Release – On June 11, 2019, Sony Pictures Home Entertainment will release Ghostbusters and Ghostbusters II in a special limited-edition 4K Ultra HD SteelBook with hours of rare and new bonus material. The set includes both films on 4K UHD and on Blu-ray, plus a bonus disc of new extras, including deleted scenes, interviews, outtakes and much more. The films were fully restored from the original camera negatives and are presented on 4K UHD with HDR and Dolby Atmos audio.

Ghostbusters: The Video Game Remastered – Saber Interactive HD re-release of the acclaimed action-adventure game featuring the original cast of the classic films and a unique storyline co-written by Ghostbusters and Ghostbusters II screenwriters Dan Aykroyd and Harold Ramis; to launch later this year on the PlayStation®4 computer entertainment system, Xbox One, Nintendo Switch and Windows PC.


About Sony Pictures Entertainment: Sony Pictures Entertainment (SPE) is a subsidiary of Tokyo-based Sony Corporation. SPE's global operations encompass motion picture production, acquisition, and distribution; television production, acquisition, and distribution; television networks; digital content creation and distribution; operation of studio facilities; and development of new entertainment products, services and technologies. SPE’s Motion Picture Group production organizations include Columbia Pictures, Screen Gems, TriStar Pictures, Sony Pictures Animation, Stage 6 Films, AFFIRM Films, and Sony Pictures Classics. For additional information, visit http://www.sonypictures.com/corp/divisions.html.

About Ghost Corps: Ghost Corps, Inc., a subsidiary of Columbia Pictures Industries, Inc., is focused on expanding the Ghostbusters brand with live-action feature films, animated motion pictures, television, merchandise, and other new entertainment products. Ghost Corps is headquartered on the Sony Pictures Studios lot in Culver City, Calif.

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Saturday, June 8, 2019

Negromancer News Bits and Bites from June 1st to 8th, 2019 - Update #23

Support Leroy on Patreon:

COMICS - From Newsarama:  Apparently (X-Men:) "Dark Phoenix" was being rewritten daily during its production.

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MOVIES - From MovieWeb:  Sigourney Weaver says that she will appear in Jason Reitman's upcoming "Ghostbusters 3" film.

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COMICS-FILM - From TheWrap:  "X-Men: Dark Phoenix" apparently does not have a post-credits scene.  When the credits role, the movie is over.

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MOVIES - From Collider:  Producer Jason Blum and actress Jamie Lee Curtis tease a sequel to last year's hit, "Halloween" (2018).

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TELEVISION - From TheWrap:  NBC is developing a TV series based on Dan Brown's novel, "The Last Symbol."  Entitled "Langdon," the series will focus on Robert Langdon, the character best known as the lead in Brown's worldwide bestselling novel, "The Da Vinci Code."

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MOVIES - From THR:  Brigette Lundy-Paine and Samara Weaving will play the onscreen children of Keanu Reeves and Alex Winter, respectively.

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TERMINATOR - From CBR:  James Cameron said that he would return to the "Terminator" franchise (for "Terminator: Dark Fate") on one condition.  Arnold Schwarzenegger had to also return.

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BLM/STREAMING - From YahooNews:  Regarding the Central Park Five and Netflix's "When They See Us," former prosecutor Linda Fairstein is discovering that God don't sleep.

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SPORTS - From NFL:  NFL announces new social grants recipients.

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TELEVISION - From YahooEntertainment:  Mindy Kaling says she was a diversity hire at "The Office."

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MOVIES - From Variety:  Woody Allen will begin shooting his 51st film this summer in Spain.  Amazson shelved Allen's last film, "A Rainy Day in New York," and ended its deal with im.

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TELEVISION - From Variety:  There was word that writers for Fox's TV series, "Empire," were working on ideas to bring disgraced actor, Jussie Smollett, back to the series.  However, series co-creator Lee Daniels says Smollett will not return.

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SCIENCE - From ScienceMag:  What cats do with their time.

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STREAMING -  From Deadline: Joe and Anthony Russo ("Avengers: Infinity War" and "Endgame") will executive produce an animated series based on the tabletop trading card game, "Magic: The Gathering" for Netflix.

From ShadowsandAct:  Octavia Spencer credits NBA superstar LeBron James with making sure she got paid right for her Netflix limited series about Madam C.J. Walker.

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OSCARS - From Deadline:  Actor Wes Studi and directors David Lynch and Lina Wertmuller will receive Honorary Oscars and actress Geena Davis (The Jean Hersholt Humanitarian Award).  They are the winners of the 11th Annual Governors Awards as voted by the Academy of Motion Picture Arts & Sciences Board of Governors.

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MOVIES - From Deadline:   Barry Jenkins ("Moonlight") is in talks to direct a biopic about Alvin Ailey, one of the most important and influential choreographers of the 20th century.

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BOX OFFICE - From BoxOfficeMojo:  The winner of the 5/31 to 6/2/2019 weekend box office is "Godzilla: King of the Monsters" with an estimated take of 49 million dollars.

From Deadline:  "Godzilla: King of Monsters" trending lower than expected, here and abroad.

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ANIMATION - From THR:  Japan's Studio Ghibli ("Princess Mononoke," "My Neighbor Totoro") announces plans to open in theme park in 2022.

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TECH - From TechRader:  5G and film: how will the tech change how we consume movies?

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MOVIES - From WMagazine:  Summer Movies: An Official Guide to the Non-Blockbusters, From Plus One to Ready or Not

OBITS:

From Deadline:  New Orleans singer, songwriter, and pianist, Dr. John, has died at the age of 71, Thursday, June 6, 2019.  A six-time Grammy Award winner, Dr. John was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 2011.  His best known single was the 1973 hit, "Right Place, Wrong Time."

From NOLA:  Celebrated chef and civil rights activist, Leah Chase, has died at the age of 96, Saturday, June 1, 2019.  Known as the queen or matriarch of New Orleans Creole cuisine, Chase career spanned seven decades, she fed everyone from ordinary people to the famous, including Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. and James Baldwin.

From RollingStone:  Former Harlem drug kingpin, Frank Lucas, has died at the age of 88, Thursday, May 30, 2019.  Lucas was immortalized in Ridley Scott's 2007 crime film, "American Gangster," with Denzel Washington playing Lucas.  Lucas claimed he imported heroin from Southeast Asia in the coffins of U.S. soldiers killed in Vietnam in the 1970s, a gambit known as the "Golden Triangle."


VIZ Media and Rose City Games Announce "Cat Lady"


VIZ MEDIA ANNOUNCES CAT LADY VIDEO GAME

The Fur Will Fly In The Latest Co-Production With Rose City Games

San Francisco, CA – VIZ Media announces CAT LADY, a new feline-flavored supernatural action game. CAT LADY is currently in production by Rose City Games, and set to be published by VIZ Media as part of an ongoing partnership between the companies to develop, produce and release original indie video games.

CAT LADY is among the diverse multimedia and video game properties to be showcased and available for consumer product license at Licensing Expo 2019, the world’s largest and most influential annual licensing industry event (VIZ Media, Booth R202, June 4 – 6, 2019).

“We’re very excited to add CAT LADY to VIZ Media’s expanding catalog of original titles,” says Brad Woods, VIZ Media Chief Marketing Officer. “A cast of adorable characters await players, and will captivate a wide array of gamers and age groups.”

“CAT LADY is a delightful game with a fun story that blends whimsy, talking cats and spooky action to make for plenty of paw-some gameplay,” says Will Lewis, Rose City Games Co-Founder, CAT LADY Director, and cat lover.

VIZ Media and Rose City Games inaugurated a partnership earlier this year with their first video game release – THE WORLD NEXT DOOR. The award-winning game follows Jun, a rebellious teen, who finds herself trapped in the parallel world inhabited by magical beings and a rich narrative and fast-paced, real-time puzzle battles that combines the emotional storytelling and thrilling action of anime and indie gaming. Developed by Rose City Games and published by VIZ Media, THE WORLD NEXT DOOR is available now for the Nintendo SwitchTM console and also for PC/MAC.

For more information on CAT LADY and to follow the game, please visit catladygame.com.

For information on anime, manga, video game and other multimedia titles published by VIZ Media, please visit viz.com.


About CAT LADY
It’s a Feline Flinging Frenzy! Ally Marie arrives at Grandma's mansion only to find an ancient evil has taken hold. It will be up to her and Grandma’s cats to set things right!

Learn more about Cat Lady at catladygame.com.
Follow @CatladyGame on social media for updates: Twitter, Instagram and Facebook.

About Rose City Games
Rose City Games is an independent game studio based out of Portland, OR.  Their mission is to make better games, by assembling teams of passionate developers for whom hard work, authenticity, and creativity are a top priority. Founded by indie game community organizers Will Lewis and Corey Warning in 2015, the studio has produced a game jam event for Cartoon Network, helped launch Headmaster for PlayStation VR, and activated the local development scene by organizing the Portland Indie Game Squad.

Learn more about Rose City Games at rosecitygames.com.

Follow Rose City Games on Twitter for updates: twitter.com/rosecitygames

About VIZ Media, LLC
Established in 1986, VIZ Media is the premier company in the fields of publishing, animation distribution, and global entertainment licensing. Along with its popular SHONEN JUMP brand and blockbuster properties like NARUTO, DRAGON BALL, SAILOR MOON, and POKÉMON, VIZ Media offers an extensive library of titles and original content in a wide variety of book and video formats, as well as through official licensed merchandise. Owned by three of Japan's largest publishing and entertainment companies, Shogakukan Inc., Shueisha Inc., and Shogakukan-Shueisha Productions, Co., Ltd., VIZ Media is dedicated to bringing the best titles for English-speaking audiences worldwide.

Learn more about VIZ Media and its properties at viz.com.

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Thursday, June 6, 2019

Three Ghostbusters Directors Gather at "Ghostbuster Fan Fest" on June 8th

Ivan Reitman, Paul Feig And Jason Reitman To Come Together For The First-Ever Directors’ Panel At Ghostbusters™ Fan Fest Presented By Wizard World June 8, 2019

Directors Of The Original 1984 Film, Ghostbusters II, 2016 Reboot and the Upcoming 2020 Project To Participate On a Directors’ Panel In Celebration Of the Franchise’s 35th Anniversary On The Sony Pictures Studio Lot

CULVER CITY, Calif.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--The once-in-a-lifetime Ghostbusters Fan Fest presented by Wizard World just got a little more special with today’s announcement of the first-ever panel featuring the directors of all four of the franchise’s feature films. Ivan Reitman (Ghostbusters (1984) and Ghostbusters II (1989)), Paul Feig (Ghostbusters 2016) and Jason Reitman (Ghostbusters-2020) will join to discuss the franchise on the main stage as a prime feature of the blockbuster event, Saturday, June 8, 2019 on the famed Sony Pictures Studio Lot in Culver City, Calif.

    @paulfeig joins the @ghostbusters Fan Fest June 8 on the @sonypictures lot, in a first-ever panel with Ivan and Jason Reitman @wizardworld WhoYaGonnaCall

The Q&A session, part of a daylong celebration of the 35th Anniversary of the original film and 30th of Ghostbusters II, will be open to all Ghostbusters Fan Fest attendees. Class 1, 3, 5 and 10 attendees will have priority seating based on the benefits of their respective tickets.

Feig, who served as both the co-writer (along with Katie Dippold) and director of the 2016 entry in the franchise, is the latest addition to the Ghostbusters Fan Fest celebrity lineup. The creator of “Freaks and Geeks” and director of Bridesmaids, The Heat, Spy and A Simple Favor, Feig has produced, directed, written and acted in films and TV series for more than 30 years.

In addition to participating in the panel, Feig will greet fans, pose for photo ops and sign autographs during the Fan Fest.

“The Directors’ Panel is one of the featured elements that will make Ghostbusters Fan Fest presented by Wizard World memorable for every fan,” said John D. Maatta, President & CEO, Wizard World. “Fans will be able to hear stories from the directors of every Ghostbusters film! This amazing collection of talented filmmakers can only happen at Ghostbusters Fan Fest.”

Jeffrey Godsick, Executive Vice President, Brand Strategy and Global Partnerships for Sony Pictures adds, “We’re excited to have Paul Feig join Ivan and Jason on stage. The Directors’ Panel is the perfect way to celebrate the 35th Anniversary of such a beloved franchise and we’re looking forward to bring these talented filmmakers to some of their biggest fans.”

In addition to the famed directors, headliners scheduled to attend Ghostbusters Fan Fest include Ghostbusters (1984) stars Dan Aykroyd (Dr. Raymond Stantz) and Ernie Hudson (Winston Zeddemore), theme song singer-songwriter Ray Parker Jr., Violet Ramis Stiel, daughter of Ghostbusters writer and actor Harold Ramis, and author of Ghostbusters Daughter: Life with My Dad, Harold Ramis. Numerous supporting cast and crew will be in attendance. Fans will take part in a non-stop series of interactive experiences, live music, costumes, meetups, impersonators, reenactors and more all day.

Other popular guests from the Ghostbusters universe scheduled to attend include William Atherton (“Walter Peck,” Ghostbusters 1984), Joe Medjuck (producer, Ghostbusters 1984, Ghostbusters II, The Real Ghostbusters, Ghostbusters 2016, Sheldon Kahn (editor, Ghostbusters 1984, Ghostbusters II), Maurice LaMarche (“Dr. Egon Spengler,” The Real Ghostbusters) and Dave Coulier (“Dr. Peter Venkman,” The Real Ghostbusters).

Cast and crew also scheduled to attend include, actors Mark Bryan Wilson (“Slimer”), Billy Bryan (“Stay Puft”), Jennifer Runyon (“female student”), Timothy Carhart (“violinist”), Steve Tash (“male student”), Tom Morga (stunt double, “Dr. Egon Spengler,” others), Tony Cecere (stunts); crew: Steve Johnson (visual effects/sculptor); from Ghostbusters II, appearing are actors Robin Shelby (“Slimer”), Tim Lawrence (“Scoleri brother”) and Jim Fye (“Scoleri brother”).

The evening before, Friday, June 7, 2019, fans can attend a special 35th Anniversary screening of the original 1984 Ghostbusters film with introduction by Dan Aykroyd and Ivan Reitman, on the Sony Pictures Studio Lot.

Following the event on June 7-8, Wizard World will continue its Ghostbusters touring experience at its conventions throughout the country featuring a pop-up shop featuring exclusive Ghostbusters merchandise. Details will be linked at www.wizardworld.com.

Tickets for the premier event are on sale now at https://tixr.com/pr/gbffpr/12066. Packages range in price from a just added $149.99 general admission ticket to $1499 for the ultimate VIP experience, with autographs and photo ops included in some packages.

Fans can learn more about the Ghostbusters Fan Fest presented by Wizard World at http://www.ghostbusters.com/news/ghostbusters-fan-fest.


About Sony Pictures Entertainment
Sony Pictures Entertainment (SPE) is a subsidiary of Sony Entertainment Inc., which is a subsidiary of Tokyo-based Sony Corporation. SPE's global operations encompass motion picture production, acquisition, and distribution; television production, acquisition, and distribution; television networks; digital content creation and distribution; operation of studio facilities; and development of new entertainment products, services and technologies. SPE’s Motion Picture Group production organizations include Columbia Pictures, Screen Gems, TriStar Pictures, Sony Pictures Animation, Stage 6 Films, AFFIRM Films, and Sony Pictures Classics. For additional information, visit http://www.sonypictures.com/corp/divisions.html.

About Ghost Corps
Ghost Corps, Inc., a subsidiary of Columbia Pictures Industries, Inc., is focused on expanding the Ghostbusters brand with live-action feature films, animated motion pictures, television, merchandise, and other new entertainment products. Ghost Corps is headquartered on the Sony Pictures Studios lot in Culver City, Calif.

About Wizard Entertainment, Inc. (OTCBB: WIZD)
Wizard Entertainment, Inc. (www.wizardworld.com) produces comic, gaming and pop culture conventions across North America that celebrate the best in pop culture: movies, television, gaming, live entertainment, tech, comics, sci-fi, graphic novels, toys, original art, collectibles, contests and more. A first-class lineup of topical programming and entertainment takes place at each event, with celebrity Q&A's, comics-themed sessions, costume contests, movie screenings, evening parties and more. Wizard Entertainment has also teamed with Sony Pictures Entertainment to find the next generation of movies as well as to engage in a number of strategic initiatives. Fans can interact with Wizard Entertainment at www.wizardworld.com and on Facebook, Twitter, Pinterest, Instagram and other social media services.

The 2019 Wizard World convention schedule is available at: http://www.wizardworld.com/comiccon.

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Jason Reitman to Appear at "Ghostbusters Fan Fest" in June

Jason Reitman, the Director and Co-Writer of Sony Pictures’ Upcoming Ghostbusters™ Film, to Attend Ghostbusters™ Fan Fest Presented by Wizard World June 7-8, 2019

Joins Dan Aykroyd, Ivan Reitman, Plus Stars of the 1984 Original Film and ‘The Real Ghostbusters’ Series For Live Event On Sony Pictures Studio Lot Celebrating Ghostbusters’ 35th Anniversary

CULVER CITY, Calif.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--As fans get ready for a new chapter of the Ghostbusters universe, attendees of the first-ever Ghostbusters Fan Fest, presented by Wizard World, will hear from Jason Reitman, the director and co-writer (with Gil Kenan) of Sony Pictures’ upcoming 2020 Ghostbusters film, on the famed Sony Pictures Studio Lot this June 7th and 8th, 2019 in Culver City, California. With Ghostbusters (1984) stars Dan Aykroyd (Dr. Raymond Stantz), Ernie Hudson (Winston Zeddemore) and director and producer Ivan Reitman already slated to attend the event with several other stars from across the franchise and a bevy of themed activities, it’s the ultimate, once-in-a-lifetime celebration of everything Ghostbusters.

    Director/writer @JasonReitman will attend @Ghostbusters Fan Fest presented by @WizardWorld, June 7-8 at the @SonyPictures Lot in Culver City, Calif. #whoyagonnacall

“I am thrilled that my role of Brownstone Boy #2 will finally be given proper recognition. Might also chat about the upcoming Ghostbusters film,” said Jason Reitman.

Reitman is a four-time Academy Award® nominated filmmaker. He made his feature film debut with the 2006 Sundance hit, Thank You For Smoking. Reitman notably earned Academy Award® nominations for directing Juno and Up In The Air, the latter of which earned him a Golden Globe® Award, WGA Award and BAFTA Award for Best Screenplay. Other films include Young Adult, Tully, and The Front Runner. Reitman also produced four seasons of the Hulu comedy series, "Casual" through his Right of Way Films. He also executive produced the Academy Award®-winning film Whiplash, Karyn Kusama’s Jennifer’s Body and Jean-Marc Vallee’s Demolition.

Jeffrey Godsick, EVP, Brand Management and Global Partnerships, Sony Pictures Motion Picture Group said: “We’re excited to be collaborating with Jason Reitman on this new chapter in the franchise. This will be a unique opportunity for fans to get a sneak peek of Jason’s vision for the film. The Ghostbusters Fan Fest is shaping up as a can’t-miss celebration of Ghostbusters and we couldn’t be more pleased that Jason will be such a big part of it.”

John D. Maatta, CEO of Wizard Entertainment said: “We will continue to bring additional value to fans to ensure the greatest Ghostbusters experience imaginable on June 7 and 8 on the Sony Pictures Studio Lot. Adding Jason to Ghostbusters Fan Fest is the next big step and one that fans will be excited to hear about.”

In addition to the Reitman's, Aykroyd and Hudson, Ghostbusters Fan Fest standout guests include Ghostbusters theme song singer-songwriter Ray Parker Jr., The Real Ghostbusters animated series (1986-91) headliners Maurice LaMarche (Dr. Egon Spengler), Frank Welker (Dr. Raymond Stantz) and Dave Coulier (Dr. Peter Venkman). Fans will participate in exclusive panels with the stars and original crew members, meet the Ghostbusters creators, talent and crew and experience Ghostbusters augmented reality gaming. Other planned Ghostbusters-themed activities include a screening of the original film, a special musical performance by Parker, costume contests, meet-ups, documentary screenings, laser tag, interactive photo booths, exhibitor booths, and much more.

Following the event on June 7-8, Wizard World will continue its Ghostbusters touring experience at its conventions throughout the country featuring a pop-up shop featuring exclusive Ghostbusters merchandise. Details will be linked at www.wizardworld.com.

Tickets for the premier event are on sale now at https://tixr.com/pr/gbffpr/12066. Packages range in price from a just added $149.99 general admission ticket to $1499 for the ultimate VIP experience, with autographs and photo ops included in some packages.

Fans can learn more about the Ghostbusters Fan Fest presented by Wizard World at http://www.ghostbusters.com/news/ghostbusters-fan-fest.


About Sony Pictures Entertainment
Sony Pictures Entertainment (SPE) is a subsidiary of Sony Entertainment Inc., which is a subsidiary of Tokyo-based Sony Corporation. SPE's global operations encompass motion picture production, acquisition, and distribution; television production, acquisition, and distribution; television networks; digital content creation and distribution; operation of studio facilities; and development of new entertainment products, services and technologies. SPE’s Motion Picture Group production organizations include Columbia Pictures, Screen Gems, TriStar Pictures, Sony Pictures Animation, Stage 6 Films, AFFIRM Films, and Sony Pictures Classics. For additional information, visit http://www.sonypictures.com/corp/divisions.html.

About Ghost Corps
Ghost Corps, Inc., a subsidiary of Columbia Pictures Industries, Inc., is focused on expanding the Ghostbusters brand with live-action feature films, animated motion pictures, television, merchandise, and other new entertainment products. Ghost Corps is headquartered on the Sony Pictures Studios lot in Culver City, Calif.

About Wizard Entertainment, Inc. (OTCQB:WIZD)
Wizard Entertainment, Inc. (www.wizardworld.com) produces comic, gaming and pop culture conventions across North America that celebrate the best in pop culture: movies, television, gaming, live entertainment, tech, comics, sci-fi, graphic novels, toys, original art, collectibles, contests and more. A first-class lineup of topical programming and entertainment takes place at each event, with celebrity Q&A's, comics-themed sessions, costume contests, movie screenings, evening parties and more. Wizard Entertainment has also teamed with Sony Pictures Entertainment to find the next generation of movies as well as to engage in a number of strategic initiatives. Fans can interact with Wizard Entertainment at www.wizardworld.com and on Facebook, Twitter, Pinterest, Instagram and other social media services.

The 2019 Wizard World convention schedule is available at: http://www.wizardworld.com/comiccon.

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Tuesday, June 4, 2019

"Naruto" Joins VIZ Media at Licensing Expo 2019

VISIT VIZ MEDIA AT LICENSING EXPO BOOTH #R202

VIZ MEDIA CELEBRATES THE ICONIC POP CULTURE BRAND NARUTO AT LICENSING EXPO 2019

20th Anniversary Celebrations Start Fall 2019


San Francisco, CA – VIZ Media brings the celebrated NARUTO brand to Las Vegas and Licensing Expo 2019 - June 4th – 6th, 2019.  The beloved ninja action franchise made its debut in 1999 in a manga created by Masashi Kishimoto, revolutionized manga and anime, and continues to captivate millions of fans internationally. NARUTO marks its 20th anniversary in 2020, and VIZ Media kicks off celebrations starting this fall with programs across all categories launching through 2020.

The NARUTO brand family includes the original manga series (published by VIZ), together with the NARUTO and NARUTO SHIPPUDEN anime series and feature films, as well as the latest manga & anime sequel, BORUTO: NARUTO NEXT GENERATIONS. VIZ Media is the master licensor for all NARUTO brands in North America, Latin America and West Indies, encompassing digital streaming, TV broadcast, EST, home media and consumer product/merchandising rights for the anime and feature films.

Officially licensed partnerships for the NARUTO franchise include:

Bandai America: 6.5 inch articulated action figures

Bandai Namco Entertainment America: video game

Bioworld: apparel and accessories

Fanwraps: decals and stickers

Funko: collections of “POP!” and “Vinyl” figures

Good Smile Company: a collection of "Nendoroid" figures

Great Eastern: novelty accessories

Kura Sushi: Restaurant chain activation

Just Funky: drinkware and accessories

Loyal Subjects: a collection of “Action Vinyls”

McFarlane Toys: ultra-articulation action figures

Party City: Halloween costumes

Pyramid: posters and stationaries

Ripple Junction: apparel and accessories

Spirit Halloween: Halloween costumes

Sprayground: backpacks

Toynami: collection of statues

Trends International: posters

Traly: collection of enamel pins for Target

Uniqlo: apparel

Latin American partnerships for NARUTO include:

DeAgostini: partwork collections

Heredia Clothing, S.A. De CV: apparel

Rosstamp Confeccao e Estamparia Ltda AKA Piticas: apparel

Festcolor Artigos De Festas Ltda: party goods, stickers

VIZ Media will be exhibiting at the Licensing Expo at booth R202; come visit and learn more about this epic franchise.

About NARUTO SHIPPUDEN & BORUTO: NARUTO: NEXT GENERATIONS
In the NARUTO manga and NARUTO SHIPPUDEN animated series, Naruto Uzumaki wants to be the best ninja in the land. He's done well so far, but Naruto knows he must train harder than ever and leaves his village for intense exercises that will push him to his limits.

BORUTO: NARUTO NEXT GENERATIONS is the action-packed continuations of the famed NARUTO manga and anime series and focuses on the adventures of the son of the celebrated ninja. As the new story opens, the life of the shinobi is beginning to change. Boruto Uzumaki, son of Seventh Hokage Naruto Uzumaki, has enrolled in the Ninja Academy to learn the ways of the ninja. Now, as a series of mysterious events unfolds, Boruto’s story is about to begin!

Additional information on NARUTO and NARUTO SHIPPUDEN is available at viz.com/naruto. More details on BORUTO: NARUTO NEXT GENERATIONS is available at viz.com/boruto.


About Licensing Expo
Licensing Expo is the world’s largest and most influential annual licensing industry event and takes place June 4th – 6th, 2019 at the Mandalay Bay Convention Center in Las Vegas, NV. Details on the event are available at: www.licensingexpo.com. VIZ Media will be located in Booth # R202.

About VIZ Media, LLC
Established in 1986, VIZ Media is the premier company in the fields of publishing, animation distribution, and global entertainment licensing. Along with its popular SHONEN JUMP brand and blockbuster properties like NARUTO, DRAGON BALL, SAILOR MOON, and POKÉMON, VIZ Media offers an extensive library of titles and original content in a wide variety of book and video formats, as well as through official licensed merchandise. Owned by three of Japan's largest publishing and entertainment companies, Shogakukan Inc., Shueisha Inc., and Shogakukan-Shueisha Productions, Co., Ltd., VIZ Media is dedicated to bringing the best titles for English-speaking audiences worldwide.

Learn more about VIZ Media and its properties at viz.com.

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