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Saturday, July 31, 2010

New Unofficial (?) Photos For THE CHRONICLES OF NARNIA: THE VOYAGE OF THE DAWN TREADER!!

Got some new (potentially unofficial) photos for you from THE CHRONICLES OF NARNIA: THE VOYAGE OF THE DAWN TREADER from NarniaFans (via FirstShowing) and the poster treatment looks very refreshing! Looks like it was done by hand rather than by computer but still gives off a grand adventure vibe. Nicely done!

Click images to enlarge.

Also included in these shots (which may actually have come from part of a contest that National Geographic in Italy has run) is Reepicheep (mouse) and Aslan (lion). As NarniFans points out, it is strange that the helm Reepicheep is standing on has no spokes for the navigator to use.

THE CHRONICLES OF NARNIA: THE VOYAGE OF THE DAWN TREADER opens in theaters nationwide on December 10.

As much as I try, I have not been able to get too pumped up about the series thus far. DAWN TREADER being in 3D has certainly sparked interest in me, but we'll see. I am always open to most movies.

Thursday, July 29, 2010

3D Geek Alert: AVATAR's Neytiri Polystone Statue!!

**Update July 30 - WOW! The exclusive is sold out already!! You can still preorder the non-exclusive Neytiri (only $289) by clicking the front-on image of Neytiri below. They are going FAST!

Finally guys we have more statues to select from for the AVATAR universe
from Sideshow Collectibles - Neytiri!! The AMP Suit has been available for some time now.

Note that the price for Neytiri ($299) is significantly lower than the AMP Suit ($1199). The Neytiri statue is almost 17 inches tall, 19 inches wide and 13 inches deep and weighs in at 12 lbs. Neytiri is also available on the affordable Flexpay for $100 / month for 3 months.

I just received the 21" IRON MAN Hulkbuster comiquette from Sideshow which I will be posting a review shortly. These pieces are simply stunning guys. Well worth the money and you will admire these daily I guarantee you.

To view more details on the Neytiri statue - just click the bottom, larger image!

Neytiri Statue - Avatar

I will be ordering one of these pronto. Let me know if you pull the trigger too on one of these stunning pieces of art!


New SAW 3D Poster Is Absolutely MIND BLOWING!

We have the new Saw 3D poster for you - and it is mind blowing ;-)



Storyline:
This October, one of the biggest, most successful horror franchises in movie history arrives in theaters in vivid, chilling 3D with the release of Lionsgate's Saw 3D.

As a deadly battle rages over Jigsaw's brutal legacy, a group of Jigsaw survivors gathers to seek the support of self-help guru and fellow survivor Bobby Dagen, a man whose own dark secrets unleash a new wave of terror...

The first theatrical feature to be shot exclusively on the cutting-edge SI-3D digital camera system, Saw 3D brings the horrifying games of Jigsaw to life like never before.

Director: Kevin Greutert
Writer: Marcus Dunstan
Studio: Lionsgate
Cast: Tobin Bell, Cary Elwes, Costas Mandylor

Release: October 22, 2010

More when we get it!!

THE 3D EXPERIENCE Set To Rock Times Square In September! Registration Opens Next Week!!

Guys - The 3D Experience (in collaboration with THR) is going to be a huge event and right fair in the middle of Times Square! I am heading to New York to cover the 3 day festival that runs September 24 - 26 and I am getting amped!!

Registration opens next week.

There will be a free, open to the public 3D Experience Showroom with thousands of consumers checking out what is brand spanking new in 3D TVs, 3D Movies, 3D Gaming, 3D Cameras and more. The showroom will be located at 226 West 44th Street at the Discovery Times Square Exposition and runs for the length of the festival.

Most of The 3D Experience is focused on the consumer and bringing the public up to speed on all things 3D. 3D movie screenings will be running in conjunction with festival partner AMC Empire 25 (the busiest theater in the nation) right in Times Square.

The VIP and press lounge will be in the NASDAQ MarketSite at 4 Times Square. I will be hanging out here quite a bit in between catching the Sessions and Forum.

The Forum is geared toward 3D industry professionals and press
bringing clarity to 3D on the big screen, at home, 2D to 3D conversions and other timely issues. There will be a panel discussion as well with leading directors, producers and cinematographers.

In addition to the Forum, 3D professionals and press will be able to take part in side by side demonstrations of all the newest 3D TVs.

I love the philosophy of this festival! The 3D Experience is placing a huge emphasis on consumer needs and wants while still presenting extremely compelling professional content. Together the energy will be amazing to watch.

I'll be taking in as many 3D screenings as possible and I am looking forward to making some hard 3D TV comparisons! There is some confusion right now about all the different consumer choices in 3D home theater and of course the whole 2D to 3D conversion issue. I will be covering it all on location in New York so stay tuned! More info coming as their website is updated...


Guillermo del Toro To Direct AT THE MOUNTAINS OF MADNESS Next? With Cameron Producing??

Sounds too good to be true! Keep in mind folks this is still just a rumor but it has been reported by Deadline that Guillermo del Toro's next project will be H.P. Lovecraft's AT THE MOUNTAINS OF MADNESS!! Deadline is usually reliable (but do tend to steal other's exclusives once in awhile).

The kicker is that James Cameron has apparently agreed to lend his name as a Producer! I am a bit taken aback by that, but if true certainly underscores the relationship that Cameron and del Toro have fostered over the years. Seems Cameron trusts him to deliver a great 3D movie. Bring it on!

As AICN has postulated - wouldn't MADNESS look great as an R-rated tentpole? You bet. We are all with you Guillermo!!

Wednesday, July 28, 2010

Check Out The New Disney Featurette - A TANGLED World: Creating The Difference

We have a new featurette for you from Disney (courtesy of AwardsDaily) focusing on the creation of TANGLED. The imagery is amazing. And it should be, the directors Nathan Greno and Byron Howard used Disneyland's own Fantasyland for inspiration. LOVE the forest pub idea they have come up with...

Storyline:
The long-haired Princess Rapunzel has spent her entire life in a tower, but when she falls in love with a bandit who was passing by she must venture into the outside world for the first time to find him.

Mandy Moore voices Zapunzel and Zachary Levi takes on Flynn Rider's character.



TANGLED will be released in limited theaters on November 12 and will taken wide on November 24.

First Look: Warner Bros YOGI BEAR!!

Gotta love it! This movie looks to be done just the way I had imagined it and seems to be capturing the pure fun and enjoyment of the original TV animation.

Click to enlarge.

Eric Brevig (JOURNEY TO THE CENTER OF THE EARTH) is directing in NATIVE 3D. Next up for him will be the Korean War epic 17 DAYS OF WINTER.

Mark my words, this movie is going to do serious business. Of course kids are going to want to watch it, but it will also bring in all those baby boomers who grew up on the picnic basket pilfering bear.

Here's the storyline:
Jellystone Park has been losing business, so greedy Mayor Brown decides to shut it down and sell the land. That means families will no longer be able to experience the natural beauty of the outdoors — and, even worse, Yogi and Boo Boo will be tossed out of the only home they’ve ever known. Faced with his biggest challenge ever, Yogi must prove that he really is “smarter than the average bear” as he and Boo Boo join forces with their old nemesis Ranger Smith to find a way to save Jellystone Park from closing forever.



Voices by Dan Aykroyd, Justin Timberlake, Anna Faris, TJ Miller, Tom Cavanagh, and Andrew Daly.

YOGI BEAR hits theaters December 17!

Just pure fun. We need more of that! More when I get it...

Tuesday, July 27, 2010

Tim Burton Is Bringing MONSTERPOCALYPSE To The Big Screen!

This one slipped under my radar but I thought I should update you guys asap. My friend Peter over at /Film spoke with producer Roy Lee about the upcoming Tim Burton project MONSTERPOCALYPSE (quite a mouth full)...

Here are the abbreviated details:
- John August is writing the screenplay right now, consulting with the game’s creator Matt Wilson (who is also a co-producer)
- Tim Burton is developing the project to direct.
- Being developed as a 3D movie.
- It could hit theaters by the end of 2012.
- Will not feature other properties like Voltron.
- The plot involves giant monsters who attack earth. After the humans fight back, the monsters retreat, but it is quickly discovered that they didn’t leave, but instead burrowed underground and are sending some sort of signal into space. The humans prepare for a possible future attach and developed giant robots that will fight the monsters if and when they return.
- Most of the movie is going to be during that battle between the giant robots and the giant monsters.
- Tim Burton is developing the look for the monsters with Ken Ralston, four time Academy Award winner who has been involved with the visual effects on films such as Forrest Gump, Death Becomes Her, Back to the Future series, Who Framed Roger Rabbit, Cocoon, Dragonslayer, Star Wars trilogy.
- The monsters and robots are each the size of a very tall building.
- The robots are controlled by a crew inside of each one of these robots, and we’ll be seeing the battles from the inside of the bridge and the outside.

Sounds like a better adaption than most of the other board game movies in development right now, but then again we have not heard too much about them other than casting (Rihanna is joining BATTLESHIP for example. Okaaaayyyyy).

Could be a very visually appealing Burton movie. No word on what role Johnny Depp will play... ;-)

Another GREEN LANTERN Poster!

Hey guys - check out the super busy Ryan Reynolds in this new GREEN LANTERN poster.

Click to enlarge.

Studio: Warner Bros Pictures
Director: Martin Campbell
Writer: Greg Berlanti, Marc Guggenheim, Michael Green
Cast: Ryan Reynolds, Blake Lively, Peter Sarsgaard, Tim Robbins, Mark Strong, Taika Waititi, Temuera Morrison, Angela Bassett, Jay O. Sanders, Jon Tenney

Release: June 17, 2011

The man is an acting robot! He has BURIED coming out this year and then two massive movies for 2011 - GREEN LANTERN and DEADPOOL. "Super" busy is right with playing all these super heroes.

Johnny Depp's Teaser Trailer For ON STRANGER TIDES!

**Update July 30: Just got the official version of the clip! Check it out below...

**Same Day Update:
I have been requested by Jerry Bruckheimer's team to remove the video, to which I have complied. Too bad, I enjoyed it immensely!

LOL. I love how he captures an audience!
Johnny Depp is truly one of the great actors of his generation. Depp's acting range is unmatched and Captain Jack Sparrow will go down as probably his greatest character.

Disney is right to place him front and center with PIRATES OF THE CARIBBEAN: ON STRANGER TIDES because much of the previous star power is now gone: Orlando Bloom and Keira Knightley will not be returning. Geoffrey Rush is still there though thank the movie gods.

Producer Jerry Bruckheimer needs a massive hit too. Lately his stock has fallen somewhat, but still $326 million worldwide is not too shabby for PRINCE OF PERSIA: THE SANDS OF TIME - it is just not Bruckheimer numbers that's all. THE SORCERER'S APPRENTICE is languishing too; just $68 million worldwide to date. That one hurts - though I enjoyed it somewhat.

Check out Depp's little rant - all in character!



Director: Rob Marshall
Writer: Ted Elliott
Studio: Walt Disney Pictures
Cast: Johnny Depp, Geoffrey Rush, Penelope Cruz

Release: May 20, 2011

There are not many surer bets than a PIRATES OF THE CARIBBEAN sequel is there?


New MEGAMIND Trailer

Time to get caught up with all the new 3D movie trailers! Here is the latest MEGAMIND trailer from Dreamworks Animation (DWA) and we are finally seeing the moment where Megamind kills off his nemisis and the resulting repercussions. Should make for some funny moments.

I believe DWA is going for more 3D in your face action with this outing and who can blame them at all on that? It is a comedy animation after all. Horror should be doing the same thing. Anything over the top like SAW 3D should be quite the experience. Just don't pop things out at people in dramas or even sci-fi / fantasy.

But I digress - here is the new MEGAMIND trailer:



Director: Tom McGrath
Writer: Alan Schoolcraft
Studio: DreamWorks Animation
Cast: Will Ferrell, Brad Pitt, Tina Fey

Release: November 5, 2010

Once we get past the repeat footage from the first trailer, it gets rather interesting.
I doubt it will do HOW TO TRAIN YOUR DRAGON numbers, but we'll see.

Monday, July 26, 2010

New JACKASS 3D Poster!

The poster is not much to look at if you ask me and the old school anaglyph glasses are not correct of course - but what do you want from JACKASS anyway? :-)

I have heard some very interesting (and good) things
about how the JACKASS 3D footage looked at Comic-Con and my favorite review is from /Film. I recommend having a listen. Everything from a flying port-a-potty (the "poo cocktail supreme") to a human pinata.

Apparently the film is mostly shot in native 3D, a maximum of 90 minutes long and truly utilizes the full extent of the power of three dimensions :-) I BET! This movie is going to have us in stitches. More when I get it.

Sunday, July 25, 2010

Must Watch: PRIEST Trailer!

I wasn't expecting this type of vampire at all! Sony's PRIEST is full of surprises. Paul Bettany looks awesome in the role and the creatures he battles looks very similar to the I AM LEGEND strain.

An apocalyptic and futuristic vision of not only how vampire slaying has progressed but how the church deals with it.

A warrior priest (Paul Bettany) disobeys Church law by teaming with a young sheriff (Cam Gigandet) and a beautiful priestess (Maggie Q). The three band together to track down a band of renegade vampires who have kidnapped the priest's niece before they turn her into one of them.

Director: Scott Stewart
Writer: Cory Goodman
Studio: Screen Gems
Cast: Paul Bettany, Karl Urban, Cam Gigandet

Release: May 13, 2011



What do you think? It is not in high resolution yet, but still enjoyable. Almost looks like another planet at times! PRIEST is being converted - BUT they are taking their time and Sony has a lot riding on the success of 3D so you can look forward to good things I am sure. For me, this trailer has only increased my interest in the movie and I am looking forward to seeing more!

SPOILERS!! TRON: LEGACY Footage From Comic-Con Leaked!! 7 1/2 Minutes!!!

SAMEDAY UPDATE: Screencap and leaked footage removed. Sorry if you missed it!

**SPOILER ALERT**


WHOA! TRON: LEGACY looks absolutely stunning!! Wait until we see this in 3D theaters guys!

Note that some at the convention thought the footage looked quite flat but could simply be a matter of them rushing the scenes for the show. In fact, most of the spy footage shown here seems perfectly viewable in 2D, so those thoughts on it being flat ARE correct. I am confident we will have a wonderful experience with this movie however. There are some great people working on this film and there is a lot at stake. This movie WILL blow your mind.

Without further ado, here is the spy footage!

**Video clip removed**

Tron Legacy is a 3D high-tech adventure set in a digital world that's unlike anything ever captured on the big screen. Sam Flynn (Garrett Hedlund), the tech-savvy 27-year-old son of Kevin Flynn (Jeff Bridges), looks into his father's disappearance and finds himself pulled into the same world of fierce programs and gladiatorial games where his father has been living for 25 years. Along with Kevin's loyal confidant (Olivia Wilde), father and son embark on a life-and-death journey across a visually-stunning cyber universe that has become far more advanced and exceedingly dangerous.

Director: Joseph Kosinski
Writer: Eddie Kitsis
Studio: Walt Disney Pictures
Cast: Garrett Hedlund, Jeff Bridges, Bruce Boxleitner


Release: December 17, 2010


CAN'T WAIT FOR THIS!!!

Quick Post: New DRIVE ANGRY Teaser Trailer!!!

Check this out guys! This is going to be a fun, FUN movie...



DRIVE ANGRY centers on a vengeful father (Nicolas Cage) who hunts down the people who brutally killed his daughter and kidnapped her baby. As the chase gets bloodier by the mile, his rescue spins out of control, leaving bodies strewn along highways.

Director: Patrick Lussier

Writer: Todd Farmer

Studio: Summit Entertainment

Cast: Nicolas Cage, William Fichtner, Amber Heard


Release: February 11, 2011

Marvel's THE AVENGERS: May 4, 2012!! Mark Ruffalo Is THE HULK!

YES! This is the news we have been waiting for (other than official confirmation that THE AVENGERS will be shot in native 3D)! Today at Comic-Con, director Joss Whedon walked on stage at the tail end of the CAPTAIN AMERICA and THOR panel with the entire top line cast for THE AVENGERS armed with a release date - May 4, 2012!!

Who are THE AVENGERS? Robert Downey Jr. as IRON MAN, Mark Ruffalo as THE HULK, Samuel L. Jackson as Nick Fury, Chris Evans as CAPTAIN AMERICA, Scarlett Johansson as Black Widow, Chris Hemsworth as THOR, Jeremy Renner as Hawkeye and Clark Gregg as Coulson.

I don't have to say that this movie has the potential to be the all time greatest comic adaption. Better than SPIDER-MAN (my personal fav). Better than BATMAN (Ok, maybe not TDK!). Better than SUPERMAN. What a cast!

I have a few requests for Marvel and I would like to hear yours too! First, native 3D. Second, I want to see the Hulkbuster Iron Man armor. Third, make the darn thing LEGENDARY. How about you?

Photo courtesy of FirstShowing


Saturday, July 24, 2010

More DRIVE ANGRY Photos!

Got some more photos of Patrick Lussier's DRIVE ANGRY for you as you prepare to get in your car to go see INCEPTION for the umpteenth time tonight!

Click image to enlarge.

First up is Amber Heard sitting in what I believe is the movie's soon to be famous Dodge Charger, then we have David Morse and Nicolas Cage prepping for some shotgun bloodworks and finally a look at Billy Burke clutching a handy bone club.

Producer Michael De Luca had this to say about the movie (Slight spoilers): "Nic (Cage) starts this movie off in this same kind of genre of ‘I'm mad as hell and not going to take it anymore. I can't trust anyone else to do this but me.' We're back in the age of the individualistic righteous hero. That [opening] scene is a great indicator of the kind of movie you're going to see. There's an insane car chase involving an RV, a Suburban, the Dodge Charger, police cars – it was a big clusterf*ck multi-vehicle car chase scene after a church gun fight that I think will be a showstopper and that's kind of in the middle of the movie. And then of course our ending, where Nic goes in for the final kill. Which actually shows his car performing the last example of heroics and just jumping over a prison wall and landing in the middle of this horrific scene where he has to rescue his granddaughter. I think those three bits will be the calling card for this movie in terms of ‘I haven't seen that before'. What's great is they all have an emotional undercurrent."

I have heard (via BloodyDisgusting - they had an awesome set visit) that this film is 40% driving cars and 60% on foot! Muscle car mania in a 3D hard R thriller. Sounds good! Will keep you updated when I get more...

Sources: Hollywood.com | BloodyDisgusting

Friday, July 23, 2010

Scarlett Johansson Falls For Role In Alfonso Cuarón’s GRAVITY!

Not completely sold on this casting but they could do far worse I suppose. Scarlett Johansson apparently has verbally committed to taking the lead in Alfonso Cuarón’s GRAVITY, a contemporary survival thriller that follows a woman as she attempts to make her way back to earth after a satellite crash sets off a chain reaction of further crashes. Scarlett's role in IRON MAN 2 was half decent so we'll see.

Angelina Jolie was the first to be considered but she allegedly did not want to share screen time with a leading man. That leading man is Robert Downey Jr. who practically owns the screen anytime he is on it. So in steps Johansson and I think it is a brilliant move for her career wise.

You know Alfonso Cuarón from THE CHILDREN OF MEN and HARRY POTTER AND THE PRISONER OF AZKABAN. He has had 3 Oscar nominations and is easily ready to make the big leap to a space thriller.

The potential for this film is enormous. A full 60% of the movie will be CG (similar to AVATAR) and Cuarón is well known for his long, continuous shots. In fact the opening shot is said to be at least 20 minutes long! We know that long, fluid shots are PERFECT for stereoscopic 3D. Should be a project to anticipate without question!

Source: NYDailyNews

Thursday, July 22, 2010

WATCH: New SAW 3D Trailer!

Well all good things must come to an end and the SAW franchise is no exception ($730m+ over 7 years + 30m DVDs sold). Director James Wan's short video teaser to Lionsgate sold them on the concept and the original movie (2004) was then shot in 17 days for $1m. The film then earned $55m and the rest is history. There was a new SAW movie every year since. Lionsgate has confirmed this will be the last of them all.

I have enjoyed the long run, though the last movie kinda suffered.
I am sure that they will be making it up to us with SAW 3D - in fact there will be 11 trap devices this time around which is almost double what their typical movie has. Apparently Lionsgate had to edit, re-edit and resubmit no less than 6 times to the MPAA to get an R rating instead of a NC-17.

SAW will be awarded the "Most Successful Horror Movie Series" by the Guinness Book of World Records at Comic-Con this year. Congratulations guys!



SAW 3D opens nationwide on October 29. The 3D glasses device you are now wearing on your face is about to send uncontrollable adrenaline coursing through your veins... :-)


MUST WATCH: New TRON: LEGACY Trailer!!

Whoa. Glad to see that my sources haven't let us down by endorsing TRON: LEGACY early on! Check out this wicked new trailer for the upcoming Disney Digital 3D revisit to the TRON universe and tell me what you think.

The excitement continues for the second year in a row at Comic-Con in marketing TRON. Updates will be ongoing during the show.

TRON: LEGACY will be upon us December 17.



A young Jeff Bridges! Don't forget that the 3D in this movie is supposed to rival if not best AVATAR. Be ready for it!! More when we get it...

New Photos And Art: DRIVE ANGRY!!

I have been pleasantly surprised by how DRIVE ANGRY is turning out! When I heard it was a supernatural thriller and that Nicolas Cage would be in it I knew something would be up, but to be honest I didn't think it would this enticing.

Click photos to enlarge.

It helps to have two great guys writing too. Todd Farmer and Patrick Lussier have worked together before (MY BLOODY VALENTINE 3-D) and are capable of great things, especially in 3D.

First lets take a look at Nicolas Cage as Milton, who as we now know (read below) busts out of hell itself to try to save his grand daughter's life. Cage looks darn good for this role; I hope he knocks it out of the park.

Here is the DRIVE ANGRY storyline:

In the newest 3D action-adventure from the director of MY BLOODY VALENTINE, DRIVE ANGRY stars Nicolas Cage as Milton, a hardened felon who has broken out of hell for one last chance at redemption. Intent on stopping a vicious cult who murdered his daughter, he has three days to stop them before they sacrifice her baby beneath a full moon.

He's joined by Piper (Amber Heard) – a young, sexy waitress who liberates her ex-boyfriend's cherry-red muscle car in order to help Milton. Now, the two of them are hot on the trail of the deadly leader of the cult, Jonah King (Billy Burke), who believes it is his destiny to use the baby to unleash hell on earth.

But the bloodthirsty cult is the least of Milton's problems. The police are after him too. And worse, an enigmatic killer known only as "The Accountant" (2nd Photo) – who has been sent by the Devil to retrieve Milton and deliver him back to hell. With wicked cunning and hypnotic savagery, the Accountant will relentlessly pursue Milton at high speed across the country until his mission is accomplished.

Fueled by high octane and pure rage, Milton must use his anger to go beyond all human limits to avenge his daughter’s murder, before his last chance at redemption is revoked.

Finally, let's take a look at some concept art from Summit Entertainment for the movie. They certainly gives you a feeling of despair and desperation doesn't it?

I wonder if that is Milton's daughter or granddaughter under that tree?

DRIVE ANGRY is slated for a February 11, 2011 release and has some pretty nice spacing between other 3D movies at that time - THE GREEN HORNET launches January 14 and James Cameron's SANCTUM dives in on March 4. The number of 3D screens is not as much of an issue as it used to be, but it is good to see that spacing for this project as it should benefit all involved.

Looks like a classic bridge jump scene too and the cars look decidedly older don't they? Should be cool to hear the old big block, 4 barrel V-8s kicking in.

I discovered a shot of Patrick Lussier (Director) and Steve Danton (Assistant Director) on Todd Farmer's blog and noted that the bridge they are on could very well be the jump scene bridge from the concept art. Looks quite cold at that location too.

Next up for Lussier is HALLOWEEN III (again Todd Farmer is writing) with a October 31, 2011 release. Busy guys!! Farmer is also working on a project I am really looking forward to - my buddy Thomas Janes' DEVIL'S COMMANDOS. More on that one soon. I have got a great feeling about it.

If you will note in the last image of what seems like hell or hell on earth, there is a car entering the shot from above with headlights blazing! Looks to be aimed at that same tree too.

I hope the money is spent on the right special effects too - nobody needs to see a cheesy hell. Am I right? The images look good though. And I expect great things from the Lussier/Farmer team.

Good luck putting the final touches on this film guys!


Sources: HitFix | Summit Entertainment

Wednesday, July 21, 2010

New THOR Photo: Hemsworth With Mjolner!

THOR photos are coming fast and furious now! Here we see Chris Hemsworth as Donald Blake (THOR's second self) trying to pick up the famous hammer Mjolner. He can't move the weapon at this stage according to /Film and their handy dandy comic consultant Harry Hopkinson.

I am beginning to see why Marvel went with Hemsworth for the role. Hope he pulls it off.

Official storyline:
Paramount Pictures and Marvel Entertainment present the epic adventure, “Thor,” which spans the Marvel Universe from present day Earth to the realm of Asgard. At the center of the story is the mighty Thor (Chris Hemsworth), a powerful but arrogant warrior whose reckless actions reignite an ancient war. Thor is cast down to Earth by his father Odin (Anthony Hopkins) and is forced to live among humans. A beautiful, young scientist, Jane Foster (Natalie Portman), has a profound effect on Thor, as she ultimately becomes his first love. It’s while here on Earth that Thor learns what it takes to be a true hero when the most dangerous villain of his world sends the darkest forces of Asgard to invade Earth.

THOR hammers theaters nationwide on May 6, 2011.


Nolan's DP Wally Pfister Puts His Foot In His Mouth. In 3D No Less.

Wally Pfister, director of photography for Christopher Nolan on THE DARK KNIGHT and INCEPTION, obviously he knows what he is doing, right? Well yes, in 2D anyway. A genius even in 2D.

When Pfister compares modern 3D to a viewmaster and to IMAX, either he is being extremely ignorant of just what modern stereoscopic 3D is or he is just being abrasive? Perhaps he is getting hot under the collar because he has to answer so many questions to do with the subject. Who knows for sure?

Obviously a viewmaster is a VERY layered device.
To throw all of modern 3D into that small box is indeed quite ignorant. Films shot in native 3D like AVATAR and TRON: LEGACY are far from looking through a viewmaster and are revolutionary movies that should be revered as trailblazers, not a child's toy. Perhaps he was speaking to solely 3d conversions and in that case he may have a slight semblance of a point. Pfister does not specify what brand of 3D,- so naturally the lay reader will throw them all together into just 3D. Shameful. This coming from a professional cinematographer no less.

3D vs. IMAX? Again an ignorant statement.
They are not competing formats whatsoever! In fact quite often IMAX movies are shown in 3D and the two are very much intertwined. Pfister says: "I must say I'm a huge IMAX fan. I like IMAX more than I like 3-D." Is he actually trying to get consumers to think that if they like IMAX they shouldn't like 3D? Shameful.

BATMAN 3 will be a 3D movie guys. I don't know this for sure of course, but quite frankly I like how James Cameron words it (paraphrasing): It is in reverse somewhat now. It should be that filmmakers are approaching the studios with their reasons for making a movie in 3D, but in many cases today the studios are demanding 3D. In other words, DPs and directors have been sitting on the fence and not taking action to pick up 3D preemptively. Now they are suffering the consequences and are fighting the tide. Too late.

So it will be with Warner Bros. vs. Wally Pfister. Who do you think will emerge the victor? Consider that Warner Bros. is betting the bank on 3D and that all future tentpoles will be made in stereo. Who pays for the whole shot? Not Pfister. Consumers want 3D - they have spoken through an open marketplace.

If I were Wally Pfister, I would start embracing 3D as a valid medium. I would be careful what I say in public. When he said "Are you really getting more out of the story with 3-D? When you separate those different planes and you’re creating artificial depth, it looks phony to me.", do you think he knows what he is talking about? Is he talking about conversions (bad ones at that) or native 3D? Why is he not clearly defining the difference for the lay person? He must not have seen AVATAR as there was nothing phony about how Cameron was able to draw us into the movie through 3D.

If I were Wally Pfister, I would go get some 3D schooling no matter how embarrassing it would be with his experience.
3D is here, it is staying and will continue to dominate. Get over it. At least Christopher Nolan is much more diplomatic about it and sees what the end game really is: He will be creating a 3D movie at some point in the future.

I find it shameful that posts like this need to be written at all.
When movie professionals stop spewing fear, uncertainty and doubt to the general public, I guess I can relent then. I count Pfister right up there with Roger Ebert. Congratulations on that Wally.


Tuesday, July 20, 2010

Marvel Concept Art: THOR and CAPTAIN AMERICA!

Marvel has released two new pieces of concept art (via Yahoo!) for the upcoming 2011 movies THOR and CAPTAIN AMERICA: THE FIRST AVENGER.

Click photos to enlarge.

The nature of a champion is quite evident in both of them, but under completely different circumstances.

Ryan Meinerding created the CAPTAIN AMERICA piece and it truly resembles what a hero would look like during a conventional war in the 20th Century.

On the other hand, Charlie Wren's work shows THOR seemingly battling on another plane of existence or even on the side of an active volcano!

Marvel will ultimately attempt to rein in both of these heroes as well as IRON MAN and THE HULK for their AVENGERS movie. If they can pull this off, AVENGERS will be the must see comic adaption of the decade if you ask me.

Monday, July 19, 2010

Korea's Largest Theatre Chain CJ CGV Standardizes on MasterImage Digital 3D Cinema Systems

As of right now, MasterImage 3D projection systems are now in more than 70% of Korea's 3D theaters. Those are pretty impressive numbers for the company that continues to make great inroads into the marketplace.

Further, MasterImage 3D also recently entered the New Zealand exhibition market, with the sale of its first digital 3D cinema system to Palmerston North-based Downtown Cinemas, that nation's largest multiplex franchise.

Here is the Korean press release:
Burbank, California and Seoul, Korea (July 19, 2010) - 3D technology company MasterImage 3D, LLC announced today that CJ CGV, the largest theatre chain in Korea, recently converted 58 additional screens to 3D with MasterImage digital 3D cinema systems. In addition to supplying systems for all of CJ CGV's 160 3D theatres, MasterImage 3D has also installed four systems in Korea's Lotte Cinema in Suncheon.

These installations, combined with existing systems at Primus Cinema, Ya Woo Ri Cinemas and more theatres across Korea, bring MasterImage's total to 175 of the country's estimated 250 digital 3D screens -- more than 70% of Korea's total 3D exhibition market share.

CGV Manager Sung woo Kang said, "MasterImage 3D's system offers an outstanding value compared to other products on the market, and it is simple to install. Also, with the high resolution picture quality, audiences' responses to the presentation are great."

MasterImage 3D has experienced rapid growth in the demand for its digital 3D theatre systems, nearly doubling its worldwide installation in the past eighteen months. Today, the company has installed more than 1,800 systems in 40 countries worldwide (approximately 400 in the US, 770 in Europe and 700 in Asia and the rest of the world).

Younghoon Lee, founder, chairman and CEO of MasterImage 3D said, "From our US headquarters and offices in Asia and Europe we are aggressively converting theatre markets all over the world. Exhibitors are recognizing that our ownership-based model and passive-glasses approach offers them a different, and often more attractive business proposition than competitive systems and they're demonstrating that recognition by choosing MasterImage in increasing numbers."

About CJ CGV
CJ CGV (http://www.cgv.co.kr) is the largest multiplex theater franchise in Korea. Established as a joint venture consisting of CJ Group of Korea, Golden Harvest of Hong Kong and Village Roadshow of Australia, CJ CGV is independently managed by CJ Group at present. As of January 2010, CJ CGV owns 70 movie theaters nationwide. Recently, CJ CGV, as the first in Korea, opened a 3D screen in LA for advancing into the U.S. market.

About MasterImage 3D, LLC
MasterImage 3D, LLC is a stereoscopic 3D technology company that provides pioneering 3D solutions for theaters, television and handheld devices. With more than 1,800 theatre systems installed worldwide, MasterImage offers audiences the best 3D image experience, while providing exhibitors with a compelling ownership-based pricing model. The company's auto-stereoscopic (glasses-free), 3D LCD technology for mobile and electronic devices are the first commercial displays of their kind, and the company's 3D camera ASIC empowers dual camera-equipped devices that enable users to create and share 3D content. The company is gearing up to deploy millions of auto-stereoscopic units with multiple manufactures worldwide. Founded in 2004, MasterImage is privately held by Symphony 3D Holdings and is headquartered in Burbank, California with offices in Buckinghamshire, UK and Seoul, S. Korea.

MasterImage is a sponsor of MarketSaw

New THOR Pic! With Helmets!!

More and more marketing is breaking through for Marvel's THOR and with this particular photo we get a glimpse at Hogun, Fandral and definitely helmets this time around!

Many were upset with the first shot we saw of Kenneth Branagh's THOR which did not show them wearing helmets. Now you can relax!

Click the image to enlarge.

From League Of Comic Geeks: In addition to the helmets worn by Odin and Loki, the photo even reveals Huginn and Muninn - the pair of ravens that retrieve information for Odin, flying all over Midgard. You can also see Hogun (Tadanobu Asano) and Fandral (Joshua Dallas) on the right side of the throne steps. On the left, you'll see Loki and what is likely Frigga (Rene Russo), Odin's wife.

How are they going to bring THOR and company into Tony Stark's modern world for the AVENGERS? Hmmm.


Official Fox Trailer For The AVATAR Re-release Online! 8 Additional Minutes Is Coming!!

This is an official trailer, verified by Fox! Check out what James Cameron has in store for us on August 27.

I have the 2D blu-ray of AVATAR but it does it no justice when compared to big screen 3D. Count me at the head of the line!

A full 8 minutes of additional footage will be included.

Personally, I will be looking for clues as to what might make it into the sequel(s). Take this screencap from the trailer for example - Jake is playing with a mobile depicting the gas giant Polyphemus and its moons (including Pandora). QUESTION: How does a bow and arrow culture know about the shape and color of their own planet? Were they taught by humans, like Grace? Interesting!

Why INCEPTION Should Have Been Made In Native 3D

*Minor Spoilers*

I don't know about you guys but I loved INCEPTION.
I saw it twice this weekend and may take it in again soon. It is hard to take it all in with only one or two screenings so a third screening is more than likely for me.

But it could have been even better. Don't get me wrong, I am not complaining. I think Christopher Nolan's achievement with the film is one of Hollywood's definitive moments in history. But in all seriousness he could have knocked this one out of the park with 3D.

How would INCEPTION be improved with 3D? The superb slow motion sequences, the zero gravity and 360 degree fight scenes, the various architect's environment manipulations, the chase scenes, the list goes on. 3D would have brought us into their dream states all that much more. It would have been spectacular to see the streets of Paris flip upside down in 3D and see that illusion of depth in the outdoor mirror scene.

What would have suffered or not existed at all in 3D? Parts of the movie just would not work in 3D, like the shaky cam scenes or the extremely fast cut fight sequences. Nolan could have still worked those bits in though using longer takes and less emphasis on shaky cam for realism and more on immersion. It would have worked.

Will Nolan work in 3D in the future? Yes. I don't think he has a choice - especially with his relationship with Warner Bros. who are embracing 3D wholeheartedly. It is the future of cinema.

Nolan's recent stance on 3D has been: "We did tests on 'Inception' with the different post-conversion processes, and they all went very well," Nolan told the crowd during a Q&A. "It's quite easy to do, in fact. But it takes a little time, and we didn't have time to do it to the standards that I would be happy with."

"There is no question if audiences want to watch films in stereoscopic imaging, that's what the studios will be doing, and that's what I'll be doing."

Michael Bay has no choice either.
That's why TRANSFORMERS 3 will be in 3D. It is happening now whether you planned on it or not. Audiences have spoken. Both Bay and Nolan prefer to work in 35mm but with 3D pushing harder and harder, combined with the backlash against 3D conversion (which 35mm mandates) you will see both of these men start to work with digital. I don't think they will settle for 3D conversion at this point though. As that technology improves they will adjust but for now I think they will want native 3D.

In the end, I am still very satisfied with the movie. I still shake my head at times in the movie, thinking "what if" but it is a thoroughly enjoyable movie.


Attention Comic-Con Patrons! Offsite PIRANHA 3D Footage Being Shown Afterall

Dimension Films refused to give up easily. Recently, Comic-Con officials forced them to pull out their planned segment screenings of PIRANHA 3D from Hall H at the mega conference because it did not suit their idea of family oriented fare. And trust me, it doesn't.

As Alexandre Aja told my friend Brooks Barnes at the
New York Times: “It doesn’t make sense to go to an event like Comic-Con and not show what the movie is,” Mr. Aja said by telephone from Montreal, where he is putting the finishing touches on the horror picture. “It’s frustrating because I was so excited to show this at Comic-Con – I made the movie for that crowd.”

So what did the Weinstein owned Dimension Films do about it? Go offsite of course! I don't know why more companies don't do this - it is an old marketing trick to not only get some free publicity through sites like this, but also it saves on costs if done right.

If you are interested in seeing all the blood and gore of a wet t-shirt contest that goes bad then here are the details:

You are invited to attend the special San Diego screening of PIRANHA 3D footage – several minutes of never-before-seen footage that is so fantastically bloody and so intense, we couldn’t show it on site at Comic-Con!

Presented by director Alex Aja
Talent Q&A immediately following the footage.

Thursday, July 22nd
10:00PM – 11:00PM
PIRANHA 3D footage screening & cast/filmmaker Q&A panel
Location: Regal Horton Plaza


Definitely check this thing out.
I am hoping that this movie turns out well, I REALLY am. I am a big Aja fan. But to be honest I have heard terrible things about the project thus far so I am crossing my fingers that I am worrying about nothing. One thing is for sure though, there will be blood.

Saturday, July 17, 2010

Let's Talk A Little AVATAR 2!

Got an AVATAR 2 update that many of you have been screaming to me about and yes, you are right - it is time to talk some AVATAR again!

Firstly, from one of my best sources, it is true that there is no final script or breakdown yet. There is a breakdown of the Jake / Warrior King story arc however. Further, entire sequences and situations that were developed during the production of AVATAR that were intended for the sequel(s) or simply couldn't make it into original are queued up too.

I have this confirmed from three top sources.
Another source said "Yeah no ready script at all. What I've heard it's more of a pitch. But the storyline and where the characters go is already there and quasi discussed. I don't know where he (Cameron) is, but he's not in the states."

Yet another source said: "News will start to gather soon on Jim's next adventure into another world "or two", I do have news for your readers, I have heard Jim wants to push the Alien world further into the abyss. Pandora best prepare for all war, because I promise you it's on it's way."

And don't forget what we already think will take place:
AVATAR 2 will continue several years after the events of the original. The oceans play a key role. It will also lay the groundwork for the other moons in the system. Things are going to get quite "weird" to the point of becoming somewhat abstract! Each movie will stand on its own and there will definitely be NO shooting the sequels back to back. Trilogy? Actually no. The sky is no limit for this universe - the plot lines are endless.

And of course don't forget this AVATAR 2 SPOILER ALERT: This is verbatim from my source...
"Oh and Pandora has a lot of shit coming its way. Break out the space marines, looks like some bugs need a stomping."

The first two quotes are from this week and those last two quotes were from late April / early May and things can change of course, especially as JC has not finalized a script but it certainly is VERY interesting. More when I get it guys. It is very hard to acquire anything that isn't there yet! But as you know we have the best internal sources for AVATAR right here and when I get - you will get it!! Hang on, it will be a heckuva ride in the coming months.

Incidently, that Neytiri pose is actually what Sideshow will be using for their upcoming Neytiri collectible. Can't wait for that one! I have not managed to get an AMP Suit to review, but I will be reviewing another 3D property soon that you will find very interesting. :-)

Friday, July 16, 2010

New Photos From Screen Gems' PRIEST!

We have some new shots from Screen Gems' new 3D movie PRIEST (via Slashfilm). Looks like a lot of fire and brimstone which is exactly how I imagined it to be. Paul Bettany continues to impress, visually at least, with the role of a legendary warrior priest during the last Vampire War.

Click photos to enlarge...

The storyline is as follows: When his 18-year-old niece is abducted by a murderous pack of vampires in the desolate wastelands outside, Priest breaks his sacred vows and ventures out to find her and seek vengeance upon those responsible, especially their brutal leader (Karl Urban). Priest is joined on his crusade by his niece’s boyfriend, Hicks (Cam Gigandet), a local outpost sheriff, and Priestess (Maggie Q), a member of his former legion of vampire-killers who has otherworldly fighting skills.

Bettany's character looks like he must have gone through hell and back. These photos further underscore my feeling that this movie is going to seriously rock. Be sure to click through to Slashfilm to view some more shots!

Thursday, July 15, 2010

FIRST LOOK: Ryan Reynolds as GREEN LANTERN!!

Hey guys - check out an awesome shot of Ryan Reynolds as GREEN LANTERN on the cover of Entertainment Weekly. This movie is going to kick some serious butt. Joining Ryan Reynolds will be Blake Lively, Peter Sarsgaard, Tim Robbins, Mark Strong, Taika Waititi, Temuera Morrison, Angela Bassett, Jay O. Sanders, and Jon Tenney.

The premise is all about Reynolds playing a rookie for the Green Lantern Corps. Every Green Lantern wears a ring that grants them superpowers. When a new enemy threatens to destroy the balance of power in the universe, fate lies in the hands of their newest recruit who just happens to be the first human ever selected: Hal Jordan.

Be sure to write off the evening of June 17, 2011 as GREEN LANTERN burns into 3D theaters everywhere!

RATATOUILLE Tastes Better in 3D! Yes, Stereoscopic 3D Version May Be Coming!!

RATATOUILLE is my favorite Pixar movie to date, so when I heard from FirstShowing, who heard from Slashfilm, who heard from Bleeding Cool who heard from the original source Hey U Guys I had to pass on the great potential news! And yes, news this good spreads like wildfire on the Internet.

Hey U Guys interviewed Pixar's Stereoscopic Supervisor, Bob Whitehill, and this is what he had to say on the matter:

"Ratatouille is one that we’re exploring doing [3D conversion on] and Brad Bird is very open to some changes, you know, some very subtle changes but slight reframings. If a character’s reaching forward and a pinky goes off screen, we’ll adjust the camera and the character a little bit to have the hand on. So that said, if the director’s open to minor modifications on a library title then that’s wonderful and we’re really excited about doing that."
Obviously with TOY STORY 1 and 2 already converted and the cheese being out of the bag for RATATOUILLE as well, it is safe to assume their remaining library will be swapped over. Disney is already converting BEAUTY AND THE BEAST if you will remember. FINDING NEMO would look awesome in 3D.

Don't forget that since these animations were created in a digital 3D world to begin with
, all Pixar/Disney has to do is just re-render them in 3D. There is nothing lost or artificially created. You can rest assured that Pixar will convert them the right way too!

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