Gotham – Alternative Mindz

Gotham stars Ben McKenzie and Morena Baccarin to headline Wizard World Philadelphia

May 7, 2019Julian Cannon Leave a Comment

GOTHAM: James Gordon (Ben McKenzie, L) consults Dr. Leslie Thompkins (Morena Baccarin)

“Once Upon a Time” stars Lana Parrilla, Rebecca Mader and Jared Gilmore, “Gotham” standouts Ben McKenzie and Morena Baccarin, “The Vampire Diaries” headliner Ian Somerhalder and the “Supergirl” tandem of Mehcad Brooks and Jeremy Jordan are among the early wave of celebrities scheduled to attend the 19th annual Wizard World Philadelphia, June 13-16 at the Pennsylvania Convention Center.

Other stars scheduled to appear include the “Charmed” trio of Holly Marie Combs, Brian Krause and Drew Fuller, “The Magicians” duo of Hale Appelman and Stella Maeve, Sean Maher (“Firefly,” Serenity), The “Firefly” trio of Adam Baldwin, Jewel Staite and Sean Maher, Kevin Conroy (“Batman: The Animated Series,” “Justice League”), “RWBY” stars Lindsay Jones, Kara Eberle, Arryn Zech and Barbara Dunkleman, Chris Owen (American Pie franchise) and Thomas Ian Nicholas (Rookie of the Year, American Pie).

Some of the world’s most talented creators populate Artist Alley at Wizard World. Top writers and artists scheduled to attend are Kurt Lehner (“Gargoyles,” “Marvel Action Hour”), Jeremy Clark (“Grimm Fairy Tales,” “Day of the Dead”), Josh Lyman (“Voltron Force United,” “Drawn”), Carl Potts (“Alien Legion,” “Venom”), Thomas Estrada (Disney, DreamWorks), Tim Lattie (“Ghostbusters,” WWE), Jai Nitz (“El Diablo,” “Fu Jitsu”), Mostafa Moussa (“Superman,” “Fantastic Four”), Joe Wos (“Mazetoons”), Mike Watson (Freestyle Komics, UpperDeck), Jen Taylor (“Sid the Science Kid,” Victoria Beckham’s Target line) and more.

Wizard World Philadelphia will also feature non-stop live entertainment hosted by Kato Kaelin, gaming, exclusive Q&A sessions with top celebrities, movie screenings hosted by stars and directors and more. Details to follow soon, along with programming and entertainment stage schedules.

Wizard World events bring together thousands of fans of all ages to celebrate the best in pop culture: movies, television, gaming, live entertainment, comics, sci-fi, graphic novels, toys, original art, collectibles, contests and more. The seventh event scheduled on the 2019 Wizard World calendar, Philadelphia show hours are Thursday, June 13, 4-9 p.m.; Friday, June 14, noon-7 p.m.; Saturday, June 15, 10 a.m.-7 p.m.; Sunday, June 16, 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Kids 10 and under are admitted free with paid adult.

Wizard World Philadelphia is also the place for cosplay, with fans young and old showing off their best costumes throughout the event. Fans dressed as every imaginable character and some never before dreamed will roam the convention floor and participate in the famed Wizard World Costume Contest on Saturday evening.

For more on the 2019 Wizard World Philadelphia, visit http://wizd.me/PhiladelphiaPR.

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. Additional initiatives may include an augmented touring schedule of Wizard World shows, fixed-site installations, curated e-commerce, and the production and distribution of content both in the U.S. and internationally. 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.

Gotham Season 5, Episode 5 Review

February 8, 2019Julian Cannon Leave a Comment

After last week’s shocking ending, we return to Gotham this week for a much more intimate look at Ed Nygma. This episode reveals what’s been happening to our amnesia-stricken foe whilst furthering the complicated relationship between Bruce Wayne and Selina. All of this culminates in a climactic reveal at the end of the episode that leaves the door wide open for next week. As always, spoilers ahead!

The story opens this week with Jim Gordon hot on the trail of the gun dealer who sold Edward Nygma the RPG. Upon finding this out, and running into one of his old army buddies back in Gotham to help, Jim Gordon bursts into The Riddler’s lair and holds him at gunpoint, declaring him under arrest. Of course, things are never quite what they seem and it turns out the floor is wired with pressure plates linked to a bomb. After being forced to let Nygma go for now, Gordon puts out the call to the remaining G.C.P.D. cops to find The Riddler and bring him in.

It turns out they’re not the only ones looking for him and as word gets to Penguin, he begins plotting his own crusade into finding his former best friend. After escaping from a crazed hillbilly family, Nygma winds up face to face with him and the two bitterly reminisce on old times. It’s at this point where all forces converge on Penguin’s lair and all hell breaks loose. Ever the opportunist, as the reinforced police arrive, Barbara shows up and informs Riddler she may hold the answers he’s seeking.

Nestled between this predominant story is the continued complicated relationship between Selina and Bruce Wayne. After killing Jeremiah, Bruce finds Selina at the Ice Lounge, drowning her problems in booze. Knowing this behavior all too well himself, Bruce tries to talk sense into his friend only to receive an ice cold retort back and a moment to ponder over what transpires. All the while wondering if this is the right call of action.

There’s no time to dwell on this though and it’s at this point where the main storyline reaches fever pitch. Barbara’s tip leads Nygma straight to Hugo Strange who nonchalantly shrugs him away, declaring he doesn’t know anything. We don’t have to wait long to find out if he’s telling the truth though and what follows from here is a climactic finale that eventually results in Nygma chasing Jim Gordon out into the streets of Gotham.

The final scene of the episode revealed a big secret and the return of another villain to the fray. Promising to deliver a showstopping ending, Gotham’s future is left in the balance with only Jim Gordon and a handful of police left to try and hold the peace.

Whilethere is some good story work done here and the episodes themselves are okay, it all feels a little underwhelming given this is the last season of Gotham. There’s been little in the way of Bruce’s transformation into Batman and it often feels like the characters are going round in circles without any meaningful development. Don’t get me wrong, Gotham is a lot of fun and the villains have always been the star of the show , but with 7 episodes to go I just hope Gotham really pulls it out the bag and delivers a finale worthy of remembrance. For now though we’re left with another good, but somewhat forgettable, episode to digest until next week.

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Gotham Season 5, Episode 4 Review

January 25, 2019Julian Cannon Leave a Comment

Well, given the context of this season and going a little bit on The Dark Knight Rises side of things, this episode made for the returns of both Victor Zsasz and Jeremiah and the use of a kangaroo court to which Oswald tried (and failed of course) to get his former killer for hire bumped with a guillotine and some mob justice.

Before he even protested his innocence, I didn’t peg Zsasz down for the Haven bomber. It’s just not his overall style but the conflict he had with Gordon, the GCPD and Oswald certainly earned him a gagging order as Oswald tried to convince everyone that he was guilty of blowing Haven up.

It really didn’t take long for Gordon and Oswald’s little truce from the last episode to come to an end with this one. Oswald couldn’t help letting power go to his head and trying to get a little paid (which is funny as Barbara sidelined her own opportunity to do exactly the same thing) and Jim yet again, wouldn’t let Oswald do what he wanted, which means the pair of them are at loggerheads once again.

As for Zsasz, he got to live another, there was a near shoot out with him and Gordon but overall, neither of them got hurt. I personally wouldn’t be letting someone like Zsasz loose on the street and given that we’ve got another ‘trial’ coming up in a later episode, don’t be surprised to see Victor popping up at least once more this season.

As for the Haven bomber though, it’s Nygma and he seemed rather shocked by his actions. Not shocked enough to throw an old woman out of a window so she couldn’t blab though but still shocked enough. Personally, I’m less shocked given his mental state this season but I did rather enjoy the team up with him and Lucius this week. Kangaroo courts and bomber identities to one side, this episode also heralded the return of Jeremiah and I have to admit, in some respects his scenes were the weakest of the episode. Not to mention the fact that there’s no way in hell despite her best efforts did Selina actually succeed in killing Jeremiah. Nope, don’t buy it for a moment and neither should she, Bruce or Alfred either. As for Ecco, she seemed to be a bit on autopilot but at least the episode did show some appropriate shades of Joker/Harley with Jeremiah and Ecco’s fleeting interactions here.

Last but not least there’s Barbara. This week she seemed a lot calmer than she’s been in a while. She chose to prioritize finding the Haven bomber over getting revenge on Oswald (though I don’t doubt she’ll be back on that soon enough) and even seemed to understand Gordon initially thinking she might have been the bomber too. Then there was that last scene with her and Jim that would’ve been a shock had the trailers not spoiled it weeks ago. Still a good way to end this particular one though.

– Another voice cameo from Jaime Murray this week. When are we actually going to see her character properly? Nice to see the show hasn’t forgotten Sofia Falcone, even if we’re not likely to see her this season.
– It seems that horrible gang from two weeks ago are actually working for Jeremiah and Ecco. Jeremiah killed the leader.
– Aside from Leslie not being accounted for (c’mon show, time for her to come back now), we didn’t see Edward the dog either.
– Chronology: Exactly from where Penguin, Our Hero left off.

Ruin was an entertainingly daft episode, boasting the clear OTT manner of the Kangaroo Court and having Zsasz throw out a few fun zingers but the Selina and Jeremiah plot just lacked the intense and that was after last week’s exciting confrontation she had with Ecco. As for the Jim/Barbara hook up, it was okay enough I guess.

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Gotham Season 5, Episode 3 Review

January 18, 2019Julian Cannon Leave a Comment

With Gotham now into its last season before it comes off air, the third episode of this fifth season continues to impress with another solid 45 minutes of action. With a smartly worked dual storyline and some interesting characterization, the gang wars and Selina’s crusade to find Jeremiah both see some serious development this week. The latter resulting in quite the surprising appearance from a new face in Gotham. With the episode finishing on a massive cliffhanger, it’ll be interesting to see where the show goes from here but for now, Gotham continues to up the ante and excitement as we draw nearer to the finish line.

The episode begins with a look at Jim Gordon’s newly acquired haven for refugees. Bullock grows ever more concerned that this will paint a target for the gangs to come looking for them and unfortunately that target is being painted by our very own Penguin. After most of his cronies up and leave him to go to Haven, Penguin enlists the help of the street gangs to clear out the camp and bring everyone back to where they belong. This being Gotham of course, things inevitably go awry and results in Bullock sneaking off to enlist the help of Barbara.

While things escalate for Jim Gordon, Bruce and Selina embark on their own crusade after a rather unsettling nightmare spurs our femme fatale into action. Together, they travel deep into the heart of the Dark Zone where Jeremiah is rumored to be held out only to find a familiar face to anyone who’s read the comics or knows the lore around Batman. I won’t spoil this here of course but suffice to say it’s a bold choice and something that actually works really well, given the context of the story.

We leave both of these plots unresolved for now and finishing on pretty big cliffhangers. Bruce and Selina are still in the Dark Zone and Jim Gordon has a big job on his hands come next week after the dramatic events that unfold at the end of the episode. How our grizzled cop deals with the ramifications of what’s happened is up for debate but if I had to wager a guess, this is going to lead Jim into the Dark Zone to find Jeremiah and our three protagonists possibly joining forces.

While the story itself continues to move the pieces forward, there’s a good amount of action this week to chew over. Selina’s newfound acrobats are put to good use as her and Bruce tackle one of the many gangs in the streets while the sprinklings of gun fighting inside Haven helps keep the episode moving at a quick pace. The real talking point here is likely to be the new character that’s come into the fray and it’s here where the fan-base is likely to be split.

Personally, I think the character choice is a good one and the new design and maniacal persona is a really good fit given the mood and tone of Gotham in general. The acting during these segments are excellent and there’s some really interesting juxtapositions between Selina and the new character regarding the way they flirt with death. In a way, it’s a useful tool to show just how far Selina could fall down the rabbit hole if she continues to stare death in the face but for now, these moments are fleeting as the story continues to move toward its finale.

Given the ending we’re dealt this week, it’ll be really interesting to see where Gotham goes from here. The two storylines work well to keep things fresh although it seems likely now that a lot of the supporting villains are going to be reduced to cameo appearances this year given the relatively short 12 episode run for Gotham. I’ve said it before but as individual episodes, Gotham really thrives and has had some wonderful stand-alone pieces over the years. Gotham is a lot of fun and it still packs quite the punch.

Gotham Season 5, Episode 2 Review

January 11, 2019Julian Cannon Leave a Comment

Last week, we left the shattered remains of Gotham City with an exhausted boy begging Jim Gordon for help. With a profound lack of Penguin this week, Episode 2 instead focuses predominantly on Bruce Wayne and Jim Gordon as they embark on separate missions to save those in need of help. While the episode lacks the same big set-piece driven action and meaningful plot development the first episode had, the final few scenes are likely to be a highlight for fans of the show. In many ways, Trespassers follows the rigid formula of Gotham episodes gone by with the added danger of feeling like Gotham could implode at any moment.

The story this week sees Jim gather his limited forces at the precinct, determined to drive into The Dark Zone where a whole group of kids are being held captive. It turns out they’ve been forced to dig a tunnel to the mainland at the hands of a ruthless gang. After navigating a myriad of dangerous locations, Jim finds himself caught in the crossfire between two rival gangs who erupt into a flurry of gunfire. It’s at this point where Jim finds help from the most unlikely of sources with one promise in return – kill Penguin and end this nightmare.

Interspersed between Jim Gordon’s heroic rescue are two predominant storylines, one involving Bruce Wayne and the other, The Riddler. The latter sees Ed wake up chained to a bed, patting himself on the back for beating his sleep walking problem. Only to find out he’s captured and evidently tortured a street gang member who’s left tied up in his bath. After some less-than-friendly negotiations, the gang member reluctantly takes Ed to his hideout only to find someone’s been there before him and left a message on the wall, with all fingers pointing at The Penguin.

Rounding out this trio of stories is Bruce Wayne’s journey into the depths of Gotham’s underbelly to find The Witch to help Salina. Once he arrives, it turns out the witch is actually Poison Ivy who’s ensnared various people who’s stumbled into her territory. After a tense confrontation, she agrees to help for the sake of Salina, giving Bruce something that’ll help herget better. It’s at this point where the episode cuts to the final credits, teasing the beginnings of Salina’s origin story and her destined transformation into Catwoman.

While the episode itself doesn’t push the overall narrative of Gotham forward, it does set up some intriguing questions going forward. In true Gotham fashion, the episodes are chock full of action accompanied by many twists and turns along the way. If there’s one thing Gotham’s always done well, it’s embracing the manic nature of Gotham’s various colourful inhabitants and this episode is no exception. The Riddler is one of the stand outs here, and has been since very early in the show’s run. Given there’s only 12 episodes to play with this season, it’ll be a real shame if the bulk of that time is used up with his amnesia rather than the manic Riddle-obsessed villain we’ve come to know over the years.

Along with the great acting that perfectly captures the persona for many of Gotham’s heroes and villains, it’s worth mentioning the underrated camera work and use of colour here too. There’s some really nice 45 degree angled shots throughout the episode and they’re used perfectly to really capture the off-kilter feel of Gotham. The use of colour, although slightly predictable, changes from dull and grey to full of vibrant brightness toward the end of the episode too, a nice touch to reflect Jim successfully completing his mission.

With a profound lack of Penguin this week, the trio of stories at play here work really well together. These are perfectly balanced through the majority of the episode’s run time too and for the most part, does well to hold your attention until the final scenes. This is likely to be the talking point this week though and it’ll be really interesting to see where they go with Bruce Wayne’s story. Of course, a lot of this season has been focused on the various villains and the ongoing feuds that are gripping Gotham’s new world order but Bruce’s transformation into Batman is something everyone is waiting to see. I’m guessing we’re going to be given a fair amount of character development for Master Wayne this season, perhaps ending with Batman saving the day in the finale. It’s still early days though but like the inhabitants of Gotham City, we’re hungry for more. Also to note, Part of this episode was filmed only two blocks from where my girlfriend lives and this was great to see on screen.

TV Shows to Binge Before The Winter Break Ends

January 3, 2019Julian Cannon Leave a Comment

Happy 2019 everyone. I hope that everyone that is reading this enjoyed their time off during the holidays. 2018 was a great year for television with current shows such as The Walking Dead, West World, Gotham, and Legends of Tomorrow and new shows that landed on television and the streaming services. Some are a hit or miss, but they are watchable during the winter break. When the winter break ends, it is back to reality for the world to get back to either school or work as the normal life resumes. But it does not have to be all normal as you can still do some activities after the day ends. Although there will be minimal time during the week, the weekend is where you can do whatever you want and one of those things is watching television. Gone are the days of sitting in front of your TV staring at commercials every seven to ten minutes as you can pause the show you are watching on your streaming account. Today, I will recommend a few shows to watch during the winter break. It is January now and many people will be inside (if you are in the northeast region) due to cold weather so why not binge a TV show.

Black Mirror (Netflix)

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5ELQ6u_5YYM

This series can challenge the viewer’s mind in many different ways and the best part about this show is that you can watch all of the episodes in any order that you want to. It is one of those shows where you do not have to watch the first episode since each episode has a different story. There are also mind bending plot twists on some of the episodes of this show that will have your mind blown. A perfect example is the ending of the episode “Shut Up and Dance”. I will not spoil the ending, but it makes you think of how far can you go to hide a secret. Give Black Mirror a chance and recently, a movie called Black Mirror: Bandersnatch has made it’s way to Netflix and it is an interactive movie with five possible endings.

Everything Sucks (Netflix)

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hf_YjzEvYeQ

This show takes place in the year 1996 at Boring High School in Oregon (I am not joking, that is the name of the high school) and most of the show’s plot revolves around the A/V club in that school. The characters on this teen comedy has different personalities and one of them is also closet gay which becomes another sub plot of the show when the way it was revealed during the show. Another good aspect of the show is that it was not just about how everyone looked at the 90’s as it felt natural and not forced in your face. The acting of all of the characters during that time period fits the narrative of what the show was about. And this is the freshman year of high school so there is also drama with other students and parents as well. I recently found out that Netflix pulled the plug on this show due to high production costs and I was bummed to find out about that news. Take a chance to watch this show as I think that it is underrated.

Gotham (FOX)

The fifth and final season of Gotham premiers this week and this is another show where I feel that should have not ended this quick. Gotham showcases the characters of the Batman comic book series in their younger days as Commissioner James Gordon and Harvey Bullock are the main stars of the show. There is intense action in every episode that will keep you on the edge of your seat. We are also shown the younger versions of Bruce Wayne, Catwoman, Poison Ivy, The Riddler, The Penguin, Scarecrow, and even The Joker. There was a concern about continuity issues since most of the stoylines from the show that are in the comic happens when all of the characters are older, but it blended in well on the show especially The Court of Owls plot arc on the show. If you want to see a young Batman on television, then this show is for you. It is also not connected to the Arrowverse shows at all so you will not be confused with trying to catch up with the other shows at all.

Unreal (Lifetime/Hulu)

Another good show with an interesting concept as it is about a production of a “Bachelor/Bachelorette” reality show. This is not a reality show at all and I was intrigued about it. The head of the production is a woman named Quinn and her on and off again producer is Rachel and they have a team with them to produce the show. You will find out real quick who is the enemy and who is not and the show has many moments that will make you laugh especially when Quinn makes funny comments about the contestants as she sees them from her production room. I will not spoil too much about the show, but there is also drama with the cast and the contestants and it all makes up for good TV. If you are into TV production, I would fully recommend the show. Plus, I know that reality shows are over produced, but it was not until this show where it exposed how over produced those reality shows are.

You (Lifetime/Netflix)

If you want a psychological thriller that is based off a novel, then this show is for you. Taking place in New York City, This show is about a male that stalks his love interest with social media and he does everything he can to be in a relationship with her and to protect her. He does this by killing people that are close to her such as her boyfriend and her best friend. The best parts about the show is the narration sequences that blends in with the scenes to give the viewer what is on his (and sometimes hers) mind as the scenes go forward. The concept is interesting and this show took advantage of the use of social media the most out of any scripted show from the first episode, to the season finale. Good thing that Netflix picked the show up because season 2 is coming soon.

The Edge and Christian Show That Totally Reeks of Awesomeness (WWE Network)

Of all of the WWE Network original shows, this show I would recommend the most. Edge and Christian are a former tag team in WWE in which they have won the tag team championships together seven times. They would both have a successful careers without each other winning multiple World Heavyweight Championships on their own. The team was known for their highly praised comedy skits inside and outside the ring and a show about them doing comedy skits is so totally worth watching. There are great skits on this show that breaks the fourth wall such as “Will WWE Talk About It” which is the funniest part of the show. During the episodes, Edge and Christian go on a mini adventure and there are also sometimes Easter eggs that are included in their dialogue. For example, one of their most recent episodes, they traveled to a dark cave and everyone in the scene commented about how dark it is inside the cave. Then Christian says “are we in the impact zone?!” and I laughed to tears hearing that unexpected line. There are also game show skits within the show such as the “Chumpstain Challenge” as Charly Caruso is the host and Edge and Christian answers themed questions. This show has a mix of everything packaged into one show on the WWE Network.

The Holidays are gettimg Batty with 4D Batman Gotham City Puzzle

November 15, 2016Rob Leave a Comment

4D Batman Gotham City Puzzle (1500+ pcs)

Watch this amazing video preview!: https://youtu.be/ACo_91E7RGM

4D Cityscape now introduces the official puzzle guide for Batman Gotham City, based on DC Comic’s famous Batman Comic Series. This puzzle will guide players through the assembly of the official DC map of Gotham City in a patented multi-layer design. The first layer is a 1000+ piece jigsaw puzzle that will teach you all about the various locations and regions of Gotham City. The second layer is an artistic 200+ piece jigsaw puzzle that replicates the night landscape based on DC Comics official map of Gotham City. For the the third layer you add 3D miniature replicas models into the puzzle, which include famous buildings and structures such as Wayne Manor, GCPD Gotham City Police Department, Ace Chemical Plant, Wayne Tower, Iceberg Casino & Lounge, and many more! Each model is a highly detailed sculpt piece of the actual location. In addition, the puzzle comes with an Official Guide to Gotham City that teaches you everything you need to know about Gotham City. Bonus items include a mini LED Bat Light located at the top of the GCPD building. It shines the batman logo into the sky as Gotham City calls for help.

Ages 14+

Fully assembled: 32 x 19.2 x 6 inches

MSRP of $89.99

4D Game of Thrones Essos Puzzle (1500+ pcs):

This puzzle will guide players through the assembly of the map of Essos in a patented multi-layer design. The first layer is a 1000+ piece jigsaw puzzle that will teach you all about the various locations and regions of Essos. The second layer is an artistic 200+ piece jigsaw puzzle that replicates the current landscape based on the famous introduction of the television series. The third layer adds the 3D miniature replica models that you insert into the puzzle, which include famous cities and castles such as Braavos, Pentos, Meereen, Valyria, Astapor and many more! In addition, the puzzle comes with an information booklet that teaches you everything you need to know about Essos, including over 45 flags to mark famous landmarks, 10 sigils to mark the Houses, and 3 battle markers to learn the locations of three major battles. Bonus items include a miniature set of the Dragon Eggs.

Ages 13+

Fully assembled measures 30x18x2 inches

MSRP of $69.99

4D The Hobbit Puzzle (1400+ pcs):

4D Cityscape now introduces the official puzzle guide for The Hobbit, based on Warner Brother’s famous Trilogy. This puzzle will guide players through the assembly of the official Hobbit Middle-earth in a patented multi-layer design. The first layer is a 1000+ piece jigsaw puzzle that will teach you all about the various locations and regions of Middle-earth. The second layer is an artistic 200+ piece jigsaw puzzle that replicates the colorful landscape. The third layer you insert 3D miniature replicas models into the puzzle, which include famous buildings and structures such as Hobbiton, Dale City of Men, Cave of Gollum, Rivendell, and many more! Each model is a highly detailed sculpt piece of the actual location. In addition, the puzzle comes with an Official Guide to Middle-earth that teaches you everything you need to know about Middle-earth.

Ages 14+

Fully assembled: 30 x 18 x 2 inches

MSRP of $79.99

4D Lord of the Rings (2100+ pcs):

4D Cityscape now introduces the official puzzle guide for The Lord of the Rings, based on Warner Brother’s famous Trilogy. This puzzle will guide players through the assembly of the official The Lord of the Rings Middle-earth map in a patented multi-layer design. The first layer is a 1000+ piece jigsaw puzzle that will teach you all about the various locations and regions of Middle-earth. The second layer is an artistic 200+ piece jigsaw puzzle that replicates the colorful landscape. The third layer you insert 3D miniature replicas models into the puzzle, which include famous buildings and structures such as Barad-dûr, Mount Doom, Minas Tirith, Isengard and many more! Each model is a highly detailed sculpt piece of the actual location. In addition, the puzzle comes with an Official Guide to Middle-earth. Ages 14+

Fully assembled: 37 x 25 x 4 inches

MSRP of $89.99

FOR THE FIRST TIME EVER, THE WARNER BROS. WATER TOWER GETS A MAKEOVER

October 20, 2015Rob Leave a Comment

FOR THE FIRST TIME EVER, THE WARNER BROS.

WATER TOWER GETS A MAKEOVER

DCTV SUPER HERO TAKEOVER INCLUDING ARROW, THE FLASH,

GOTHAM’S DETECTIVE GORDON AND SUPERGIRL

UNVEILED ON ICONIC STRUCTURE

Super Team of Studio Artisans, Engineers and Artists Collaborate on

Installation Celebrating Shows Based on DC Comics Characters

Twitter Pitch: For first time ever, the WB water tower gets a Super Hero makeover: http://bit.ly/WATRTWR#WBDCTV #Arrow #TheFlash #Gotham #Supergirl

BURBANK, Calif. (October 20, 2015) — For the first time ever, the iconic Warner Bros. water tower is receiving a Super Hero makeover, with the unveiling of giant renderings of Arrow, The Flash, Gotham’s Detective Gordon and Supergirl on the iconic structure which rises 100 feet high above the Warner Bros. Studios lot. A super team featuring dozens of Studio artisans, engineers and artists collaborated on this first-of-its-kind installation celebrating four Warner Bros. Television series based on characters from DC Comics.

ABOUT THE DCTV SUPER HERO TAKEOVER

The characters from Arrow, The Flash, Gothamand Supergirl are displayed on giant aluminum panels measuring 22 feet by 20 feet in size, with each one weighing more than 5,000 pounds.

Dozens of craftspeople were involved in the design and production of the panels, with representatives from a number of Studio departments including scenic design, special effects, lighting, signs and graphics, the metal shop, electrical, rigging and engineering.

The panels will be on display for 90 days and were unveiled in a ceremony on Monday night, October 19.

They were installed using a specially devised custom-pulley system during the October 17–18 weekend. The cables for the reveal of the panels were held down by 8,000 pounds of cement.

Attendees at the unveiling included Supergirlstar Melissa Benoist, Gotham stars Erin Richards and Cory Michael Smith, and executive producers Greg Berlanti & Andrew Kreisberg (Arrow, The Flash, Supergirl), Ali Adler (Supergirl), Marc Guggenheim (Arrow), and Bruno Heller, Danny Cannon & John Stephens (Gotham).

Arrow airs Wednesdays at 8/7c on The CW and The Flash airs Tuesdays at 8/7c on The CW. Gotham airs Mondays at 8/7c on FOX, with Supergirl debuting Monday, October 26, at 8:30/7:30c on CBS, before moving to its Mondays 8/7c CBS time period on November 2.

ABOUT THE WATER TOWER

The Warner Bros. water tower was built in 1927 and has since been declared an historical landmark.

Standing 100 feet tall, the water tower contains a 100,000-gallon tank — although it currently holds no water.

Previously located next to the Warner Bros. Fire Department, it was moved following the Long Beach earthquake in 1933, when the Warners realized that if the tower had fallen and damaged the Fire Department, the Fire Department would not have been able to provide emergency assistance.

The water tower was once home to the animated stars of Animaniacs (Yakko, Wacko and Dot) from the 1930s until they escaped in the 1990s.

DST Products In Stores This Week: Gotham, The Walking Dead and more!

October 14, 2015Rob Leave a Comment

Batman Classic TV Series Logo Cookie Jar

A Diamond Select Toys release! Holy ginger snaps, Batman! The newest DST product inspired by the Batman Classic TV Series may be their most tantalizing yet! DST has taken the famous Batman TV logo and turned it into an approximately 12″ wide ceramic cookie jar – remove the inset lid at the top to fill it with cookies, treats or evidence! Comes packaged in a full-color box. (Item #JAN152173, SRP: $39.99)

http://www.diamondselecttoys.com/batman-classic-tv-series-logo-cookie-jar

Batman: The Animated Series Femme Fatales Poison Ivy PVC Statue

A Diamond Select Toys release! DST’s line of Femme Fatales PVC statues based on the women of the DC Animated Universe continues with Poison Ivy! Based on her appearance in Batman: The Animated Series, this PVC statue of the plant-loving Pamela Isley stands 9 inches tall atop her diorama base, and depicts the villainous vixen visiting with a vine-like friend, perhaps discussing how best to entangle the Dark Knight. Packaged in a full-color box window box. Sculpted by Steve Varner Studios! (Item #MAY152173, SRP: $45.00)

http://www.diamondselecttoys.com/batman-animated-series-femme-fatales-poison-ivy-pvc-statue

Godzilla 1974 Figural Vinyl Bank

A Diamond Select Toys release! Watch out, MechaGodzilla! The newest full-figure bank in DST’s line of 12-inch vinyl kaiju is your old foe Godzilla, exactly as he appeared in 1974’s Godzilla vs. Mechagodzilla! And you know what happened in that movie! This 12-inch rendition of the King of All Monsters in his full 1970s glory features a coin slot on his back and a removable tail that reveals an updated and improved access door. Measuring 18 inches long from nose to tail, he is the perfect addition to any Godzilla collection! Sculpted by Gentle Giant. Packaged in a clear polybag. (Item #MAR152065, SRP: $34.99)

http://www.diamondselecttoys.com/godzilla-classic-1974-vinyl-figure-bank

Gotham TV Select Action Figures Series 1 Asst.

A Diamond Select Toys release! One of the hottest shows on TV is Gotham, a look at the crime-ridden streets of Batman’s hometown. Now, the hit show is an all-new line of Select action figures! Each 7-inch scale figure comes with character-specific accessories, as well as a deluxe diorama base representing a location in Gotham City: The Penguin comes with a pier, Jim Gordon comes with an alleyway, and Selina Kyle comes with a fire escape – connect Jim and Selina’s bases to form a larger scene! Each figure features approximately 16 points of articulation and comes packaged in the famous display-ready Select packaging, with spine art for easy shelf reference. Sculpted by Gentle Giant!

Jim Gordon Action Figure (Item # MAR158179, SRP: $24.99)

http://www.diamondselecttoys.com/gotham-tv-jim-gordon-select-action-figure

Oswald Cobblepot Action Figure (Item # MAR158180, SRP: $24.99)

http://www.diamondselecttoys.com/gotham-tv-oswald-cobblepot-select-action-figure

Selina Kyle Action Figure (Item # MAR158181, SRP: $24.99)

http://www.diamondselecttoys.com/gotham-tv-selina-kyle-select-action-figure

Marvel Minimates Villain Zombies vs. Age of Ultron Secret Wars Box Set

A Secret Wars tie-in! Every year, DST unleashes a horde of Marvel’s Villain Zombies on the world, in the form of a new four-pack of Marvel Minimates! This year, with worlds colliding over in Secret Wars, even our zombie box set is not immune to the effects! Villain Zombie versions of Pyro, Bullseye and the Vulture have been invaded by an Ultron Drone from the Age of Ultron. No matter who wins, we lose! Each 2-inch Minimates mini-figure features 14 points of articulation as well as interchangeable parts and accessories. Packaged in a full-color window box. Designed by Art Asylum! (Item #JUL152208, SRP: $19.99)

http://www.diamondselecttoys.com/marvel-minimates-villain-zombies-vs-age-of-ultron-secret-wars-box-set

Jay and Silent Bob Minimates Zombie 2-Pack

A Diamond Select Toys release! Jay and Silent Bob will never die! Literally! This all-new 2-pack of Minimates mini-figures features undead versions of America’s favorite comedy team, as seen in the movies, comics and cartoons of writer/director Kevin Smith. This set includes zombie-specific accessories, including a hunk of meat and the severed heads of four familiar victims. Each 2-inch Minimates mini-figure features 14 points of articulation and fully interchangeable (and removable) parts. Packaged on a full-color blister card. Designed by Art Asylum! (Item #MAY152176, SRP: $9.99)

http://www.diamondselecttoys.com/jay-and-silent-bob-minimates-zombie-2-pack

Pulp Fiction 20th Ann. Minimates Bring Out the Gimp Box Set

A Diamond Select Toys release! Bring out the gimp!! No more wondering if the gimp is sleeping – the famous Pawn Shop scene from Pulp Fiction has finally been made into Minimates form! The fourth box set based on Quentin Tarantino’s iconic 1994 film captures the main players in the famous dungeon sequence: Butch, Marsellus Wallace, Zed and the Gimp! Each 2-inch Minimates mini-figure features 14 points of articulation as well as interchangeable parts and accessories. Packaged on a full-color blister card. Designed by Art Asylum! (Item #MAY152174, SRP: $19.99)

http://www.diamondselecttoys.com/pulp-fiction-20th-ann-minimates-bring-out-the-gimp-box-set

Universal Monsters Legacy Series 4 B&W Action Figures Box Set

A Diamond Select Toys Release! The Universal Monsters are back, with an all-new Legacy Series Box Set! Capturing three recent Universal Monsters Select action figures in glorious black-andwhite, this set brings together Quasimodo (from The Hunchback of Notre Dame), a Mole Person (from the Mole People) and a transforming figure of Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde (from Abbottt and Costello Meet Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde). The figures look like they just stepped off of the silver screen! Each 7-inch scale figure features 16 points of articulation and a small diorama base. Sculpted by Jean St. Jean! (Item #MAR152066, SRP: $50.00)

http://www.diamondselecttoys.com/universal-monsters-legacy-series-4-bw-figure-set

Walking Dead Minimates 2-Packs Series 8 Asst.

A Diamond Select Toys Release! With the hit comic series expanding in new, shocking directions, and a new TV series on the air, there’s never been a better time to be a Walking Dead fan! This all-new assortment of comic-based Minimates mini-figures spans the time-jump, featuring “New Beginning”-era Carl with Sophia, “All-Out War”-era Rosita with Father Gabriel, Hilltop leader Gregory with a Forest Zombie, and a rare, one-per-case two-pack of new Hilltop leader Maggie Greene with a Forest Zombie! Each 2-inch Minimates mini-figure has 10-14 points of articulation and features fully interchangeable parts and accessories. Designed by Art Asylum! (Item #AUG152324, SRP: $9.99/ea.)

http://www.diamondselecttoys.com/walking-dead-minimates-2-packs-series-8-asst

Find your nearest comic shop atcomicshoplocator.com!

Stay tuned to www.alternativemindz.com this week for our review of Oswald Cobblepot from Gotham!

Protect and Serve with Gotham Police Department Hoodies

August 6, 2015Rob Leave a Comment

Protect and Serve with Gotham Police Department Hoodies
(BALTIMORE, MD) – (August 6, 2015)- Show your support for Gotham’s Finest with the PREVIEWS exclusive Gotham City Police Department hoodie by Changes, Inc. The Gotham City Police Department hoodie is available to pre-order from the August PREVIEWS catalog and is scheduled to arrive in comic book shops exclusively in late October.

This hoodie joins the other superb PREVIEWS exclusive hoodies such as the Navy Captain America Shield Hoodie (JAN141588), the zip-up Deadpool Logo hoodie (SEP131573), and most recently the Spider-Gwen Womens’ Hoodie with Mask (JUL151949).

The navy blue zip-up cadet hoodie features the GCPD abbreviation on the front in bold yellow varsity-style letters. The back of the hoodie features “GCPD” written across the shoulders, as well as the name “Gotham City Police Dept.” and the department’s seal, all in bright yellow. The hoodie is available to order in size small to XXL and can be ordered using item code AUG152080.

To ensure correct sizing, fans are encouraged to tell their comic shop their desired hoodie size as individual item codes correlate to sizes SM-XXL. The hoodies can be ordered only from the August PREVIEWS, which is available in comic shops. Find a comic shop at www.comicshoplocator.com to pre-order yours today.