Tag Archives: Doctor Who

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NYCC 2013: Saturday Panel & Screening Highlights

Say hello the busiest day of New York Comic Con. There are some very cool panels and screenings today. Companies know today is the busy day, and most of the stellar programming is scheduled for today. That said, it might even be worth going to a panel you’re only mildly interested in just to take a break from the crowds. Ah, seating, glorious seating…

11:00 – 12:00 – Archer: Discussion and Q&A – Main Stage 1-D
Pretty much everyone on the show will be here. What a great way to start Saturday. Can’t make it to Javits in time? You can watch it on the internet live here: www.newyorkcomiccon.com/nycclive.

11:15 – 12:15 – 50 Years of Doctor Who – 1A23
Unfortunately, it doesn’t look like any of the actors associated with Doctor Who will be here. But creators of the comics and TV series will be here to talk about the long lasting endurance of Doctor Who during the past 50 years.

11:15 – 12:15 – IDW: The Ultimate Panel – 1A10
Well, this is an interesting one. Has IDW had a presence at New York Comic Con over the past few years? I want to say no. I’m glad they’re appearing here this year. I only wish the special edition of the Jeff Smith Artist Edition was debuting here as well. But good news: Darwyn Cooke will be on this panel. Hello, Parker news.

12:15 – 1:15 – Marvel Video Games – Empire Stage 1-E
Remember when licensed video games sucked? I guess in some cases they still do. But Marvel’s games have been good lately. I’m definitely looking forward to Marvel: Lego. Or is it Lego: Marvel. Either way, I’m in.

12:15 – 1:15 – Diamond Select Toys: Best of All Worlds – 1A01
Do you love Diamond Select Toys? You want to be here.

12:15 – 1:15 – Superman 75th Celebration – Main Stage 1-D
Superman is 75! Mike Carlin, the group editor behind the Death of Superman and Dan Didio, the head honcho of DC responsible for the death of any decent stories in the Superman comics (sorry, couldn’t resist) will be on hand to talk about comic’s most iconic character.

12:30 – 2:30 – Yaya Han – Celebrity Cosplayer Autographing – Booth 2537
Celebrity cosplayer? This is a thing? Really?

1:00 – 1:30 – Stan Lee Photo Op-Saturday – Photo Op, Autographing Area
Quite possibly the best 60 bucks you’ll spend this weekend.

1:15 – 2:15 – Marvel: Inhumanity & All-New Marvel Now – 1A06
Interested in the future of the Marvel Universe? This is the panel you need to be at. Inhumanity is Marvel’s follow-up to Infinity and many titles will be launching under the All-New Marvel Now banner. Be there!

1:30 – 2:30 – Justice League: Forever Evil! – 1A22
I find it weird that Geoff Johns isn’t listed as an attendee for this panel. I would find it even weirder if he doesn’t show up for it.

2:00 – 2:15 – Andrew McCarthy Photo-Op – Booth #2142
Only if we can recreate the poster to Weekend at Bernies.

2:00 – 3:00 – Scott C. Signing The Great Showdowns The Return – Booth #2142
Scott C.’s The Great Showdowns is one of the best purchases I made at New York Comic Con in 2012. Go to this signing. Scott is super nice and last year he drew characters in everyone’s books.

2:30 – 4:00 – IFC’s Back to Back Comedy Event Comedy Bang! Bang! & The Birthday Boys – 1A06
This should be a very funny panel. If your energy is running low at this point in the day, and you need to rest your dogs, this might be the perfect place to sit, relax and laugh.

2:45 – 3:45 – Star Wars Rebels: The Might of the Empire – Empire Stage 1-E
Of course this would be on the Empire Stage. New Star Wars TV show! It takes place during the classic trilogy! Eeeeeeeee!!!!!

2:45 – 3:45 – The Thrilling Adventure Hour World Domination Tour – 1A14
Fresh from their two sold out shows Friday night at The Bell House in Brooklyn, the writers and cast of The Thrilling Adventure Hour will be at this panel moderated by Greg Rucka. Sorry, IFC, but this might be the funniest panel of Saturday.

3:00 – 4:00 – Archie Comics: Zombies, Heroes, Cartoons, Movies and More!
No lie, Afterlife With Archie is the comic I’m most excited for this fall.

3:40 – 4:00 – Gillian Anderson and David Duchovney Photo Op – Photo Op Booth, Autographing Area
Look, if you’re going to spend $220 on this, wear a black suit, white shirt and black tie. Don’t wear your stained I WANT TO BELIEVE t-shirt from 1996. Do it right!

4:00 – 5:00 – Marvel: Cup o’ Joe – Empire Stage 1-E
Expect a lot of those one word press releases to have their secrets revealed here!

4:00 – 5:00 – Valiant Comics: Must Read Valiant – 1A01
Valiant controls less than 2% of the comics market, but it’s a very loyal, energetic and vocal audience. They’re still starting up their new shared universe. Now might be a good time to jump in.

4:00 – 5:00 – Neil deGrasse Tyson Autographing – Autographing Table 7
Neil deGrasse Tyson is the coolest scientist since Bill Nye. It’s a free autograph AND you get to talk to Neil deGrasse Tyson! Bring you copy of Action Comics 14!

4:15 – 5:15 – Robert Kirkman’s Skybound – 1A08
Here’s your go to spot for all Robert Kirkman news non-The Walking Dead related!

4:30 – 5:30 – Roberto Acquirre-Sacasa and Francesco Francavilla Autographing – Booth #1936
I previously mentioned how excited I am for Afterlife With Archie. The creative team of that comic will be signing it here. Expect me there.

5:00 – 6:00 – Marvel’s Agents of SHIELD – Main Stage 1-D
Tuesday Night Movies is reviewing every episode of this series. I’m loving the series so far and am very much looking forward to this panel.

5:15 – 6:15 – DC Comics: The New 52 – Empire Stage 1-E
This panel happening at the same time as the Agents of SHIELD panel might explain the nice, enjoyable lull in show floor traffic around 5:30 on Saturday.

5:30 – 6:30 – Hanna-Barbera and the Designs of Alex Toth -1A03
Alex Toth is cool.

5:30 – 6:30 PM – Abrams Presents the Adventure Time Encyclopedia Panel with the Lord of Evil and Marceline the Vampire Queen – 1A08
6:45 – 7:45 – Adventure Time Encyclopedia Autographing – Autographing Table 21
If you are a fan of Adventure Time, here is the panel for you. There will be a reading from this book from the cast. If you can’t make tonight’s signing at NYCC, there are other signings scheduled at Forbidden Planet and Bergen St Comics this week.

6:30 – 7:30 – AMC’s The Walking Dead – Main Stage 1-D
If you want to attend this panel, get here early. There will undoubtedly be a long line to get in, and I’m guessing more people interested than there are seats. The cast will be here and they will be showing footage from the upcoming fourth season.

6:30 – 7:30 – John Barrowman Q&A – Empire Stage 1-E
Depending on the quality of the questions, this could be one of the coolest panels of NYCC. I hope John Barrowman does a song.

7:45 – 8:45 – Batman: Arkham Origins – Empire Stage 1-E
Is there an upcoming video game more anticipated than Batman: Arkham Origins? Not in my house, there isn’t.

8:00 – 10:00 – NYCC Charity Auction – 1A17
I’ve been following Mike Negin on Twitter. He runs the NYCC Charity Auction and has been posting pictures of the art that has been donated. All I can say is wow! You need to go to this auction. The money raised goes to St. Jude’s Children’s Research Hospital, a very worthwhile cause. Check out @MightyMikeNegin on Twitter for a peek at the art. You’ll be glad you did.

Written by Nicholas Doyle.

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SDCC 2013 – The Best Comic-Con Exclusives

When it comes to exclusive merch, Comic-Con in San Diego is second to none. Comic and toy companies go above and beyond at San Diego in ways they don’t for other shows. If you’re at Comic-Con right now, there’s a decent chance you’re reading this while standing on line for one of the items listed below.

G.I Joe Skystriker Vehicle with Jetfire Deco and V.A.M.P. with Autobot Hound Deco and 3.75 inch Snake Eyes, Baroness and Bludgeon Special Edition Pack – Hasbro – $99.99

This is the third G.I. Joe/Transformers mash-up that Hasbro has sold at San Diego, and man, they really went all out this year. Two vehicles. Three figures. One of which is Snake Eyes. And another that is Bludgeon! I applaud Hasbro for going super-hardcore and releasing a Bludgeon figure. Unless you were reading the tail end of the Transformers series put out by Marvel in the 1980s, he’s probably not someone you’d recognize. His figure is definitely not aimed at the casual fan. And who couldn’t use a Snake Eyes with Autobot deco on him? On top of all this, you also get a G.I.Joe scaled Blaster boombox for Snake Eyes to rock out to! If you’re not at Comic-Con, you’ll have a very tiny window to buy this and Hasbro’s other exclusives on Hasbro’s website after the show.

Star Wars The Black Series 6-Inch Boba Fett Action Figure with Han Solo in Carbonite Accessory – Hasbro – $44.99

This year, Hasbro is launching a new line of Star Wars action figures, The Black Series. These figures will measure 6 inches and be more detailed than the standard Star Wars action figure line. To kick the series off, they’re selling a Boba Fett and Han Solo in Carbonite two-pack at Comic-Con. I’m kind of obsessed with Han Solo frozen in Carbonite. I may need this.

Marvel Universe 3.75 inch Deadpool Corps Special Edition Figure Set – Hasbro – $49.99

Tuesday Night Movies has a certain affinity to merchandise dedicated to the Merc with a Mouth. This set includes Deadpool, Lady Deadpool, Champion dressed as Deadpool, Kidpool, Squirrelpool and Dogpool, all packaged in tacos shells in a food truck box. Hasbro, you win this year.

Marvel Minimates Deadpools Assemble Pack – Action Figure Express – $22.00

Cable-Pool! Captain Ameri-Pool! Thor-Pool! Iron Deadpool! Best Minimates set ever?

Game of Thrones: 7″ Stark Shield Wall Plaque – Dark Horse – $30.00

The Lanisters send their regards.

Hellboy Qee Comic-Con T-Shirt Vinyl Figure – Dark Horse – $20.00

This figure is super cute, and you can buy a matching t-shirt for yourself at the SDCC show store.

Aardman Superman Action Figure – DC – $24.95

You’ve been hitting that cookie box a little too much lately, Superman.

Batman ’66 #1 Variant Cover Comic – DC – $10.00

I wasn’t planning on featuring any variant covered comics here, mainly because they’re usually overpriced and lame, but this one was too cool not to show.

Batman Classic TV Series Batusi Batman – Mattel – $30.00

The 1960s Batman TV show is all over Comic-Con this year. Mattel wins the award for best tie-in with this toy that captures one of the most classic scenes from the series, Batman dancing.

The Big Bang Theory Sheldon with Vintage Batman T-Shirt 8-Inch Action Figure – Entertainment Earth – $25.00

Seriously, the ’60s Batman show is everywhere at Comic-Con 2013. Even Dr. Cooper is getting in on the act.

Masters of the Universe Classic Rokkon and Stonedar 2-Pack – Mattel – $60.00

I had the original Rokkon when I was a kid and he was one of my favorite action figures. They’re men who turn into meteors! How cool is that! I would snatch up this new set in a heartbeat!

Star Wars Wrath of the Rancor Christmas Ornament – Hallmark – $?


I’m very happy to report that Hallmark will be selling this ornament at NYCC this year too. I’m not sure on the price, but I’m guessing it’d be in the $30-$40 range.

Doctor Who River Song’s Deluxe Journal – Entertainment Earth – $60.00

Entertainment Earth has been selling a cardboard covered version of River Song’s journal for a while now. But this faux-leather, embossed version is where it’s at. I defy you to find a cooler looking diary.

Spider-Ham Mini-Bust – Gentle Giant – $45


Peter Porker finally gets his due. Limited to only 500. I expect these to sell out fast.

And now for some of the SDCC exclusives that have me scratching my head…

Man of Steel Variant Statue – DC – $129.95

I’m not really sure who this is aimed at. Goth Superman fans?

“Magnitude” Admiral Ackbar Mini-Bust – Gentle Giant – $175

Admiral Ackbar. With a mustache. WTF. But at the same time, I kind of love it.

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The Cosplay of NYCC 2012

There were so many awesome costumes at this year’s New York Comic Con! I think this year may have boasted the most impressive cosplayers since NYCC began. Here are some of my favorites!

New rule: all dealers need to cosplay, just like Absorbing Man here. 
The most dangerous hazard with crowded escalators: getting hit in the face repeatedly by Bark the Mog’s wagging tail.

Arcee, ready to roll out.
And one of many 11th Doctors in the background. 

“There’s money in the banana stand.”
The only way this costume could have been better is if it was self-immolating.
This might not be a George Costanza costume. Maybe this guy just really likes Seinfeld and tucking his shirts into his denim shorts. I hope this is a George Costanza costume.

War time Captain America and the Scarecrow partying it up like an intercompany crossover.
I was really impressed by this woman’s Captain Marvel costume for a couple of reasons: 1. This costume just debuted in the comics a couple of months ago! 2. She even incorporated Carol Danvers’s new hairstyle.

There were so many Doctors at NYCC, but only one Doctor Strange. I want this cape. 

I’ve seen many guys dressed as Ghostbusters over the years, but none as elaborate as this duo. They even had a Slimer! 

A very manly Mera.

While not a costume, this remote control R5-D4 was amazing. 

Venom

I really wish this picture came out clearer. 
These three had awesome Wasp, Scarlet Witch and Ant-Man costumes. 
I don’t think I’ve ever seen anyone cosplay Ant-Man before!

Weeping Angel.
Don’t blink….but feel free to tip generously.
Starro 
This guy needs a “Free Face Hugs” sign.
I don’t get the whole Free Hugs thing. But Free Shrugs, I get that. 
Cassandra Cain Batgirl and Red Robin. 

I was very happy to see someone cosplaying my favorite Batgirl, Stephanie Brown.
My absolute favorite costumes from this year’s NYCC all have something in common: wings. 
Sorceress and Skeletor
Does He-Man know about this?

Victoria’s Secret Stormtrooper Angel
This guy rocked the runway that is Artist Alley!
But my absolute favorites…
Steam Punk Hawkgirl and Hawkman
There two win! The attention to detail in their helmets. The individually feathered metal wings. This Steam Punk Hawkgirl and Hawkman pair are amazing!
Written by David Henehan. Photos by Billy Henehan, David Henehan, Nicholas Doyle and Graig Kreindler.

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NYCC 2012 Exclusives (UPDATED!)

UPDATED 10/5/12!
UPDATED AGAIN 10/9/12!!

New York Comic Con is less than three weeks away and I am getting seriously excited for it. One of the best things about New York Comic Con is having access to limited edition items, many of which are either debuting or only available at NYCC.

Here are the ones I’m more excited about! …and some that just have me shaking my head.

4-LOM and Zuckuss Christmas Ornaments (Hallmark)

Price: ???, Limited to 800 sets.
True story: I love Christmas and I love Star Wars. I already have a lot of Star Wars ornaments on my tree each year, but what’s two more, right? Last year’s droids two-pack sold out pretty quickly. This might be the first thing I buy on Thursday.

The Dark Knight Returns Christmas Ornament (Hallmark)
Price: ???, Limited to 700 sets
This was an SDCC exclusive, and I was jealous of anyone who bought it! I love Frank Miller’s The Dark Knight Returns. It’s one of the few comic book stories that I go back and read year after year. Would I be more excited if it was a David Mazzucchellli Year One Batman? Yes. Am I complaining?
No. This will be mine!

Cylon Centurion Christmas Ornament (Hallmark – Booth 1229)
Price: ???, Limited to 600
While you’re at the Hallmark booth, you might want to pick up this limited edition Cylon Centurion Christmas Ornament. It’s a gold plated variant of last year’s Cylon ornament. It makes sound. I probably won’t buy this one. My only exposure to Battlestar Galactica was playing with my cousin’s Cylon action figure when were kids. I never watched either the original show or the recent series. But that Cylon toy from my youth was so cool looking. It looked like a more bad-ass Stormtrooper. Did Cylons shoot beams out of the their eyes? Five year old me thought so.

The Walking Dead Hardcover Compendium NYCC Red Foil Version (Image/Skybound)
Price: $100, Limited to 1500
It’s the big Walking Dead phone book sized collection, but in hardcover. SDCC had a similar exclusive. This is going to go fast. I don’t know how Skybound plans on selling this: if it’s just first come, first served; if they’re planning on allocating a supply for each day, but I get the feeling that no matter how they decide to sell this, it is going to sell out and sell out quickly.

Thief of Thieves Volume 1: “I Quit!” NYCC Exclusive Hardcover (Image/Skybound)
Price: $30, Limited to 1000
I want there to be a Thief of Thieves movie, and I want Kyle Chandler (Friday Night Lights) to star in them. If you haven’t read Thief of Thieves yet, I highly recommend picking up this collection of the first storyline, “I Quit!”

Saga Bookplate (Image) (Image)
Price: Free with purchase of Saga Volume 1, Limited to 200
You know what, Image, just go and take all my money. Saga, by Bryan K. Vaughn (Lost, Y: The Last Man) and Fiona Staples has quickly become one of my favorite comic books. If you’re one of the first 200 people to buy Saga Volume 1 at the Image booth, they will include an exclusive NYCC bookplate. Plus, both Vaughn and Staples will be at NYCC if you want to get it signed. I expect this to be gone by Friday.

Skullkickers #15 Kitten Variant (Image/Jim Zub and Edwin Huang)
Price: $10 signed, $5 personalized.
I’m not sure if I read that price right. Is it $10 if you want a signed version and $5 cheaper if you want it personalized? If so, that is very cool. Because, basically, if you’re a true fan, you’re getting it personalized, and if your goal is just to throw it on eBay for some quick cash, then you can pay a little more.

Master of the Universe Skeletor Power Sword Letter Opener (AFX)
Price: $20
Remember the He-Man Power Sword Letter Opener from SDCC? Here’s its evil twin. The Skeletor Power Sword Letter Opener is best for opening bills, junk mail and letters from the IRS.


Alpha Flight Minimates Series 2 (AFX)
Price: ???
AFX brought you Series 1 of Canada’s premier superhero team at San Diego Comic Con this year, and now you can add Sasquatch, Snowbird, Talisman and Aurora to join Guardian, Puck, Marina and the recently married Northstar to defend the northern part of your bookshelf. Both Series 1 and 2 will be available at the AFX booth.


Thundercats Minimates Series 2 (AFX)
Price: ???
The Alpha Flight Minimates where distributed much more evenly in terms of coolness compared to the Thundercats Minimates (but maybe that’s because all of Alpha Flight is lame. What? I said it!). Thundercats Series 1 nets you Lion-O, Panthro, Jaga, Mumm-Ra and a bonus Snarf figure, while if you buy Series 2, you’ll find yourself owning Mumm-Ra’s lackeys: Jackalman, Monkian, Slithe, Vultureman and Wolfrat, aka “That one, the other one, the lizard guy, the bird dude and oh, who cares?” No wonder, with the exception of Mumm-Ra, I only remember the good guys from Thundercats. Both sets will be available at NYCC. Honestly, I think you’d be better off buying two sets of Series 1.

Doctor Who Masterpiece Collection: Tenth Doctor (Sound of Drums Variant) Maxi-Bust Comic-Con Exclusive (Titan Entertainment)
Price: ???
I don’t usually buy statues. I’m usually content enough to just see them in the comic book store. But I kind of want to buy this one. I just got into Doctor Who last year and love David Tennant as The Doctor. Shameful admission: I actually haven’t reached the end of season three yet, so I haven’t seen the episode from which this statue is based. Okay, if I don’t watch Sound of Drums by NYCC, I won’t buy this. That seems fair, right?

Aardman Batman Action Figure (DC)

Price: $25, Limited to 2000
I haven’t seen the shorts that this figure is based on, but that doesn’t stop me from thinking this guy would look awesome on my desk, peeking over my Mr. Met Bobble Head. 


John Stewart and Atrocitus Action Figure Two-Pack (DC/Graphitti Designs)
Price: $25, Limited to 2500
DC wins the “Phoning It In” Award with this two-pack. Where’s Baz, the Green Lantern who made his debut right before NYCC? Or how about Green Lantern Jon Stewart? If they did either of those, I wouldn’t be able to hand them my money fast enough. And what is going on with that John Stewart action figure? He looks terrible. He’s posing for the cover of Muscle & Fitness. His head looks like a white guy in black face make-up. The only cool thing about this two-pack is John’s rifle construct, which is hopefully green and not yellow in the final product. I’m guessing if you’re buying this two-pack, it’s for that constuct. I think John Stewart is an awesome Green Lantern. The sculpt of him here in this two-pack is an insult to the character. 

The Walking Dead: The Official Magazine #1 with NYCC Exclusive Michonne Cover by The Walking Dead Artist Charlie Adlard (Image)
Price: ???
First there was The Walking Dead: The Comic, then there was The Walking Dead: The TV Series, followed by The Walking Dead: The Action Figures and The Walking Dead: The Prose Novel. Now there’s The Walking Dead: The Magazine. The Walking Dead is becoming the new Spaceballs. I’m not kidding. I saw a Rick Grimes plush doll last week. We’re 10 months away from The Walking Dead: The Toiler Paper, you take my word for it.

This isn’t the only The Walking Dead, The Official Magazine #1 Exclusive Cover that will be available at NYCC. Midtown Comics has their own exclusive variants as well, both of which will probably be available at their booth.

Wolverine Brown Classic Costume Funko Pop Figure (Zappi comics)
Price: ???, Limited to 1000
This is, without a doubt, my favorite Wolverine costume. I don’t own any of Pop Funko’s figures, but I think they’re very cool looking. I’ve come very close to buying their Han Solo before.

The Walking Dead Bloody Rick and Daryl Funko Pops Figures (Harrisons)
Price: ???, Limited to 3000
You know what, Kirkman? just take my money.


DC Skelanimals Dark Knight Batman Jae Plush
Price: ???
12”, plush, too adorable not to make this list.


G-Man: Coming Home #1 (Chris Giarrusso & Jacob Chabot)
Price: ???
Stop by Chris’s table and you’ll be able to pick up this issue before it hits stores!


Khem, Captain Action’s Black Panther (Captain Action Enterprises)
Price: $25, Limited to 200
I’m a little too young to have any memory of Captain Action, but in the 60’s, Captain Action’s sidekick, Action Boy, had a pet; Khem the Black Panther. Frankly, this just makes me question whether or not Captain Action is fit to have a sidekick. You’re giving a kid a black panther to play with? Shame, Captain Action, Shame.

UPDATE!! Marvel has announced some pretty cool NYCC exclusives. Check them out!

Rocket Raccoon Coffee Mug (Marvel)
Price: $12
Something I don’t need: another coffee mug. Something I want: This coffee mug.

I Survived the Battle for New York T-Shirt (Marvel)
Price: $20
What’s the over/under on the number of people you see wearing this while waiting in line opening night of the Guardians of the Galaxy movie?

Avengers Album T-Shirt (Marvel)
Price: $20
Need a t-shirt that works on both Free Comic Book Day and Record Store Day? You’re welcome.

Avengers Vs. X-Men #12 Avengers Variant (Marvel)
Price: $10
Sure, the Giants won the Superbowl and the Avengers came out on top in AvX, but I look at this cover and all I think is that Thor looks so much like NY Jets Center Nick Mangold.

Avengers Vs. X-Men #12 X-Men Variant (Marvel)
Price: $10
Considering the ending of AvX, it’s fitting that the X-Men are representing my beloved NY Jets. Considering the strategic placement of Emma’s football, I’m guessing Marvel couldn’t get license rights to the Jets name. “Jets? Why would you think they’re spelling out that? They could be spelling anything. Like Mets…oh, wait, never mind.” I’m happy to see that Beast is down with Tebow Time. You hear that, Rex Ryan? The smartest X-Man thinks you should play Tim Tebow more! Listen to him!

Wolverine: Old Man Logan Action Figure (Marvel)
Price: Free with Marvel Digital Unlimited Subscription
Jonesing for a Hasbro exclusive? It looks like this will be the only one at NYCC this year. And this isn’t even a true exclusive, as it was available at SDCC and will be available on the Marvel Digital Unlimited website as well. My theory on why we’re not seeing more from Hasbro is that until recently, you could still buy last year’s NYCC exclusives on their website. That’s unfortunate. I find Hasbro’s lack of faith in NYCC disturbing.

UPDATE THE SECOND!!!

Skybound has announced some more Walking Dead exclusives for NYCC!

Michonne and Pets PVC Set
Price: Gray – $15, Limited to 1000; Purple – $20, Limited to 250; Glow-in-the-Dark – $20, Limited to 250
Just in time for Michonne’s debut in the TV show, Skybound will be selling these Michonne and Pets PVC figure sets. They look very nicely detailed. The numbers on these are VERY limited. I doubt the glow-in-the-dark version will make it past Thursday. Grab this while you can!

The Remains T-Shirt
Price: $20, Limited to 250
If you’re up to date on your The Walking Dead, you get what the names around the Great Seal refer to. If anyone asks, tell them Rick, Andrea, Carl and Michonne formed a Ramones tribute band in #100.

I was already planning on hitting up the Image booth as soon as I stepped onto the show floor. Now it looks like I’ll be speed-walking there.

This list will continue to be updated as more exclusives get announced!

Written by Nicholas Doyle, who thinks it would be a great idea if you like Tuesday Night Movies on Facebook.

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Safety Not Guaranteed (At The Theater 2012 #7)

This is looking like it’s going to be a great summer for big summer movies. It started very strong with The Avengers, Pixar just released a new movie and the upcoming blockbusters The Amazing Spider-Man and The Dark Knight Rises both look like they’re going to be awesome. Because of this, it might be easy to overlook a small budget movie like Safety Not Guaranteed when you’re planning your next trip to the movie theater. But overlooking Safety Not Guaranteed would be a mistake, as it is currently my favorite movie of this year.

Starring actors from three of the best shows on TV, Aubrey Plaza (April on Parks and Rec), Jake Johnson (Nick on New Girl) and Mark Duplass (Pete on The League), having a story involving time travel, and with music by Ryan Miller of Guster, this movie could not have been more directed at me without making overt Star Wars references. I’ve been excited to see Safety Not Guaranteed ever since I first heard about it a few months ago. Then I saw the trailer and started counting down the days until the movie opened.

The League is my new favorite show and I can’t stop talking about, much to the chagrin of any of my friends who don’t watch it.

Safety Not Guaranteed is a very funny movie that has a lot of heart. The humor is great and the characters feel like very real people. I liked how fleshed out everyone was. Aubrey Plaza gives a great performance as Darius, the magazine intern who helps Jake Johnson’s Jeff attempt to interview Mark Duplass’s Kenneth. I thought that Darius and Kenneth had great chemistry together. They have a reverse Taming of the Shrew-esque relationship and I spent much of the movie waiting for the other shoe to drop.

I loved the slow-moving car chase.

On a side not, it’s amazing how badly the wrong pair of glasses can make you look. The gaming laptop toting Arnau (played by Karan Soni) is a really handsome guy when Jeff gives him a five minute makeover. I wish somebody had done that for me in 10th grade when I was sporting over sized gold rimmed frames that helped cement me in the geek camp.

If you like Doctor Who, I think you will really like Safety Not Guaranteed. It’s like watching a Doctor Who episode from the point of view of one of The Doctor’s companions. Can this guy really travel in time? Is he just a nut? Darius and Kenneth reminded me a lot of Rose and The Doctor.

Does that make the beat-up yellow Trans-Am the TARDIS?

If you haven’t seen it already, my recommendation is to make Safety Not Guaranteed the next movie you see. You can check out the trailer below.


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The Costumes of NYCC 2011

In honor of Halloween, I thought I would share pictures of some of my favorite costumes from this year’s New York Comic Con! I hope you enjoy them!
Gambit

I’ve never said “I need to take this guy’s photo” as quickly as I said it when I saw this guy’s Gambit costume. From head to toe, this costume is amazing!
Peter Porker: The Spectacular Spider-Ham
When I was a kid, I was a super huge Spider-Ham fan. I still am. This costume rocks. And rolls. I hope someone next year dresses up as Captain Americat!
M. Bison
Besides making the entire costume, this guy sculpted himself a new chin to look more like the big boss bad guy from Street Fighter II!
Silent Bob
Silent Bob
Both of these Silent Bobs kept in character when I interacted with them on the floor. I don’t know if I’d be able to go an entire day without talking. I’d be sure to slip up by the time I ordered my first pretzel of the con. I think they both captured Silent Bob perfectly.
Buddy Christ
Continuing the theme of Kevin Smith inspired costumes comes this one straight out of Dogma. I really like that he gave me the Buddy Christ pose for this photo.
The Fourth Doctor
I so want a Tom Baker scarf.

The Tenth Doctor
There were a lot of Doctors at New York Comic Con this year, which makes sense as it’s a fairly easy costume to put together. I was wearing a jacket and tie on Saturday and people thought I was dressed as The Tenth Doctor. I think this guy did it much better than I did!
The Eleventh Doctor
I haven’t reached the Matt Smith seasons of Doctor Who yet, so I needed a friend to explain to me who all these people walking around in fezzes were. It didn’t help that the first guy I saw dressed as The Eleventh Doctor in a fez had a really thick beard, which made me think he was cosplaying Jonathan Rhy- Davies from Raiders of the Lost Ark. But no, he was The Doctor. With the exception of maybe only Spider-Man or a Stormtrooper, The Eleventh Doctor may have been the most popular costume at NYCC this year.
The Eleventh Doctor
Like I said, The Eleventh Doctor was a very popular costume this year.
Dalek and…um, is that a guy from Cats?
I saw a few Daleks and even a couple of girls dressed as the TARDIS. I thought this was one of the best Dalek costumes I saw. I don’t know who the guy was supposed to be. Is he someone from Cats? Or a member of Heathcliff’s crew? I’ve been told by my more serious Doctor Who fan friends that his costume isn’t Doctor Who related. Anyone recognize him?
Mr. T
I saw two guys dressed like Mr. T out on the show floor. One had a giant bazooka. This one had a giant box of Mr. T cereal. Mr. T cereal wins. I pity the fool who don’t love cereal!
Quailman
This is the first Doug Funnie costume I have ever seen. This guy rules.
Bumblebee and Loki
I hated the Transformers movie. But it ended up giving us this guy’s awesome, eight foot tall costume, so I guess it’s not all bad. I accidentally took this Loki’s picture while trying to get a quick shot of Bumblebee. Amazing attention to detail in both Bumblebee and Loki.

Cobra Commander
I love when people get into character for their photo. This Cobra Commander definitely brought it!

Luke Cage
Besides being 100% accurate and well put together, what made this costume work so well is that this guy is tall and ripped. He looks like Luke Cage stepped out of a 1980s comic and walked into New York Comic Con!

Master Shake
We were almost run over by this Master Shake on Saturday. I grabbed my friends and jumped into a nearby Silver Age dealer’s booth and pretended to look through back issues of Legion of Superheroes to avoid be crushed by this Master Shake.
The Prince
I LOVE Katamari. The only way this costume could be better would be if this girl was rolling around a ball made up entirely of con swag.

The Tick and Arthur
“SPOON!”
Happy Halloween everyone!
 
Written by Billy Henehan / Photos by David Henehan & Graig Kreindler.



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Five Random Observations from My First Comic Con

I am, admittedly, a pretty big geek. But up until now, I’d never attended an actual Comic Con. So this year when Billy brought it up, I jumped at the chance. I used copious amounts of soap and followed his 9 other rules for attending a convention, put on my Harry and the Potters T-shirt and set out for the faraway land of the Javits Center.

1. The first thing I saw then I entered was a girl wearing absolutely no pants, tiny black underwear and fishnet stockings. I have no idea who she was supposed to be, but it was about on par with what I expected from Comic Con. Now that I think of it, it’s also about on par with what I expect at a Lady Gaga concert. And you wouldn’t normally think there’d be a huge cross-section there.

2. I knew I was at the right place when I saw someone dressed as Harry Potter standing next to a Dalek.

Dalek…
Yeah, that pretty much sums me up.

3. Billy and I shared a near-death experience. It started out innocently enough: all we wanted to do was to check out a panel. We went to the basement level and the closer we walked toward the room, the more the crowds started to fill in around us.

By the time we realized what was happening, it was too late. We were stuck in a dense ocean of convention goers.

I’m pretty short, so I was very much concerned about my oxygen levels. Although Billy, who was at a higher elevation, tells me that he was concerned about the BO toxicity level. Either way, things were not looking good for either of us.

After about 10 minutes of being stuck in the mob, we came to a sign that let us know just what the crowd was for. It said… “Speed Dating.”

Yup, we almost died cause of Nerd Love.

Though, I have to say. That’s actually an excellent place to get some speed dating done. You probably already have some common ground and a comforting mutual level of social awkwardness to help ease both of you in.

4. At one point, I saw a sign for something called Johnny Cupcakes and immediately wandered over to it. Only when I managed to get close enough to the case did I realize that they were selling plastic toys and not cupcakes. A word to the wise: if you, as a company, put ‘Cupcakes’ in your name, you will sorely disappoint some potential customers even before they have a chance to look at your wares. That was what I call a sad Comic Con moment.

NOT cupcakes. Somewhere on the other side of this photo, I’m crying silent tears.

5. I’m big into theme parties, Halloween, and costumes in general and there were some amazingly creative costumes. The whole Darkwing Duck gang was there. There was a giant homemade Bumblebee with working lights. The “Are You My Mummy” empty child from Doctor Who (as well as a ton of 11th and 10th Doctors). Next year, I think I’m definitely dressing up.

No, I’m not! Now stop creeping me out…

And, oh yeah, next year. Because although this was my first Comic Con, I definitely don’t think it’ll be my last. I had a ton of fun. I even had to break my self-imposed book buying ban because there were three titles I just had to get. One of which is called The Crimes of Dr. Watson and is an interactive Sherlock Holmes mystery complete with actual clues you have to piece together. It’s pretty awesome.

In conclusion, judging from the fact that I’m using the phrase “in conclusion,” you can probably guess that I felt right at home at Comic Con. It was made of win. Win dressed in spandex.

Sarvenaz Tash is the author of the upcoming middle grade novel THE MAPMAKER AND THE GHOST. Visit her website http://www.sarvenaztash.com/.

Photos by Graig Kreindler.

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2011 New York Comic Con Exclusives

New York Comic Con is right around the corner, happening October 13-16, and Tuesday Night Movies will be there for all four days of the con!

There are going to be a lot of exclusive merchandise available at NYCC this year. Here is some of the cooler looking swag.

Dexter Action Figure (Entertainment Earth)

I’ve never watched Dexter. I know, I know, how could I not, everyone asks me. There’s just so many hours in the day. I’ll get around to it. But if you’re a fan of the show, and that seems to be anyone who has ever seen it, this could be the toy for you.

How likely will I buy it? No chance. I mean, I should see the show first, right?

Deadpool Corps Minimates (Diamond Select)

What’s better than one Deadpool Minimate? Five of them! Especially when one is just a zombified head with a propeller attached to it!

How likely will I buy it? Maybe as a gift for my brother, otherwise not likely.

Doctor Who TARDIS Bobblehead (Entertainment Earth)

It makes TARDIS sounds! I might have to buy this. I might not be only Tuesday Night Movies contributor buying this at NYCC.

How likely will I buy it? IT MAKES TARDIS SOUNDS!

Doctor Who TARDIS Lunchbox (Entertainment Earth)

It does not make TARDIS sounds. But it will hold your lunch.

How likely will I buy it? If it made TARDIS sounds, I would be saying WANT right here. How cool would it be to hear the TARDIS sound every time you took out your lunch?

Dr. Who The Fourth Doctor Action Figure

Tom Baker in 8 inches of glory. Check out that hair. Check out that scarf. When I was teen working at my local library, Tom Baker was my only exposure to Doctor Who, when I had to shelve books with his likeness on it in the Sci-Fi/Fantasy section. I never saw a Tom Baker Doctor Who episode, so I won’t be buying this. But check out that scarf.

How likely will I buy it? I have no reason to own this. My Doctor is Chris Eccleston. I would buy a life size version of The Fourth Doctor’s scarf, though.

Twilight Zone Bob Wilson/Don Carter (William Shatner) Action Figure (Entertainment Earth)

I love The Twilight Zone. Two of favorite episodes starred William Shatner: Nightmare at 20,000 Feet and Nick of Time. With this action figure, you can recreate both episodes…if you know, make a scale model airplane or diner.

How likely will I buy it? I don’t own any Shatner dolls. No need to start now. But if they made a talking toy of the fortune telling machine in Nick of Time, I would…be too afraid to buy it, or even look at it.

Venture Bros. Rusty and Jonas Venture Sr. Action Figure Set (Entertainment Earth)

Entertainment Earth is bringing a lot of cool stuff to NYCC. If you like Venture Bros, this is doubly awesome: two action figures and a lunch box (Is that triply awesome?).

How likely will I buy it? I’m still working my way through season one of Venture Bros, so it’s safe to say…no chance.

Batman Arkham City The Joker (Sickened Variant) Action Figure (Graphitti Designs)

If you want this action figure, you’ll need to wait in line for a wrist band, then wait on another line to buy the figure. If you like waiting on lines as much as you like The Joker, how can you pass this up?

How likely will I buy it? I have to wait on how many lines to own this? Yeah, no thanks.

Batman Mez-Itz Mega Scale Action Figure (Mezco Toys)

If you’re buying that Joker action figure, you’re probably buying this as well. You also probably tell your friends how you’re the Batman of your group, with your keen intellect, tactical mind and sullen demeanor.

How likely will I buy this? Not for me. I find these Mez-Itz to be weird looking. Doesn’t Batman look like he has a paunch?

Thundercats Lion-O Mega Scale Action Figure (Mezco Toys)

This monster is 20 inches tall, has light up eyes, a claw shield and both short and long versions of the Sword of Omens.

How likely will I buy it? No chance at all. I just put it up here because one of my good friends is a huge Thundercats fan and I want to hear about how he short circuited his computer’s keyboard while drooling as he looked at this description.

Battlestar Galactica Toaster Necklace (Her Universe)

This one doesn’t excite me as much as it confuses me. Are the Cylons the evil toaster manufacturer of the BSG universe? Seriously, I don’t get this.

How likely will I buy it? Buy it? I don’t even understand it!

R2-Q5 and R2-A3 Star Wars Christmas Ornaments (Hallmark)

On second day of Christmas, my true love gave to me…two R2 units.

How likely will I buy it? I’m dreaming of a Star Wars Christmas…

Star Trek USS Defiant Christmas Ornament (Hallmark)

Maybe you’re more Star Trek than Star Wars. Don’t worry, Hallmark will take your money too.

How likely will I buy it? In my world, Star Wars > Star Trek.

Compound Hulk Action Figure (Hasbro)

Call me old fashioned, but Compound Hulk has nothing on Composite Superman. But it does unintentionally look like a Christmas decoration with all that red and green, so I’m listing it right after the ornaments.

How likely will I buy it? Me no like Hulk color blindness test toy.

R2-Q5 PS3 (Major League Mods)

Whoa, okay forget that R2 Christmas ornament. This might be the coolest thing debuting at NYCC. It’s an R2 droid that IS ALSO AN PS3 AND PROJECTOR. Hot damn. Major League Mods is also having a raffle to win an R2-D2 X-Box 360. If you need to find me at the con, I’ll be the guy wiping drool off his chin at this booth.

How likely will I buy it? I’m guessing this will be serious $$$, so I won’t be buying it. But I will be admiring it, no doubt and looking jealously at anyone who buys it in my presence.

Luke Skywalker Metallix Print (Official Pix)

This thing’s $30 and if you’re going to get Mark Hamill to sign something, it does look pretty cool. However, Mark Hamill’s autograph is $100 (!). Too rich for my blood.

How likely will I buy it? I once paid for Carrie Fischer’s autograph. It was much less than $100, she wrote “Love to you” on my DVD and Mark Hamill just doesn’t look as good in a gold bikini, or so I’m told.

8 Bit Mogo Button (Victor Dandridge)

This 8 Bit Mogo button is adorable. You have to win an 8 Bit Challenge contest to take it home. What’s that involve? I have no idea. But I plan on finding out.

How likely will I buy it? It sounds like you can’t buy this, but if there’s not a huge crowd at this booth, I’ll definitely try to win one.