DC Announces SWAMP THING HALLOWEEN HORROR SPECIAL, More 100-Page GIANT Titles

By

-

September 13, 2018

The folks at DC have a special treat for you kids this Halloween. The publisher announced an expansion to their line of 100-page, Walmart-exclusive Giant titles, and first up: Swamp Thing Halloween Horror Special, according to local sources.

The 100-page Swamp Thing one-shot will ship October 4. Copies should arrive in the 3,000 Walmart stores currently stocking DC titles by October 7 and retail for $4.99. No information has yet been released about the creative teams involved or any content planned for the one-shot specials. However, we do know it will not be the only release.

The Swamp Thing Halloween anthology will be followed by an 80-page DC holiday special, which is set to hit shelves by November 11 and will also retail at $4.99. The Flash, plus another undisclosed character, will join the line sometime early next year.

Expanded Anthology Line Opens the Door for Controversy

DC’s 100-Page Giant line debuted back in July with series featuring Superman, Justice League of America, Batman, and Teen Titans. The anthology books proved to be a quick success, but they have not been without controversy.

Because the books are Walmart exclusives, many fans—and comic shop owners—argue they direct business away from traditional, independent outlets. Defenders of the exclusive anthologies respond that, because of their place at Walmart stores, the books reach a broader consumer base outside the traditional comic shop crowd. The books, most of which are targeted at the tween and young-teen market, have the potential to introduce new readers to classic characters and stories.

DC publisher Dan DiDio is a fan of the books, and is eager to expand. “I’m really excited about the program,” he says. “It’s a great way to get our books into people’s hands.” In addition to new series, DiDio hopes the books will eventually find a home in every Walmart store.

Either way, the anthology line shows no signs of slowing down any time soon. As DiDio explains, “we plan to stick with Walmart for the time being. It’s been a successful program.”

What do you think? Are you excited for the Swamp Thing Halloween Horror Special and other new titles in the 100-Page Giant line? Or do you think the line is harmful to comic shops and the industry at large? Leave your comment below and sound off!

Monkeys Fighting Robots Youtube

MARTIAN MANHUNTER Lands This December

By

David DeCorte

-

September 13, 2018

Steve Orlando and Riley Rossmo promise “the Martian Manhunter story” this December. The 12-issue Martian Manhunter will take readers where we’ve never been before: J’onn’s past, according to a Hollywood Reporter exclusive.

The upcoming series is one-part detective story, with J’onn attempting to solve a grisly murder. However, the heart of the story is a character piece, exploring J’onn’s life before coming to Earth. This will be the first Martian Manhunter title since 2015, and the creative team promises to make it worthwhile.

According to Orlando, Martian Manhunter will focus on giving J’onn the hero’s journey he never had. “Spider-Man let the burglar go. Bruce Wayne was too afraid to save his family. This book gives J’onn that moment,” he explains. “…we finally know the why. Why he strives to be so good on Earth, why he has this journey, because he’s never really had one before. All of our favorite characters overcome their faults, and we hope he’s going to do it here, but he has to have them first.”

Orlando and Rossmo have a history together, collaborating recently on Batman: Night of the Monster Men and Batman/The Shadow. Both creators seem drawn to the same aspects of the story, as Rossmo explains: “…the present timeline story felt kind of David Lynch-y to me, and I thought that would be the piece that I could really dig into…But the Martian stuff, the family stuff, has been really emerging as the part that really grabs me.”

Rossmo went as far as to say one point in the first issue “brings a tear to my eye.”

You can pick up Martian Manhunter #1 at your local comic shop this December. In the meantime, what do you think about the new series? Are you excited to delve into J’onn’s tragic past? Let us know in the comments!

Monkeys Fighting Robots Youtube

The MILES MORALES: SPIDER-MAN Returns in an All-New Series

By

Michael Stagno

-

September 13, 2018

Thanks in part to the creative duo of Saladin Ahmed and Javier Garrón, Miles Morales will once again swing his way into the pages of his own series at Marvel.

The year is already shaping up to be one for the ages for Morales. He has had an appearance in Insomniac Games’ Spider-Man, he is set to star in Spider-Man: Into the Spider-Verse, of which, in some of the trailers, he’s sporting the Air Jordan 1’s, which is the best! But now, he (finally) will have yet another ongoing solo series.

The story will follow the teenager as he juggles his responsibilities as both a superhero and a high school student, a mirrored tale of that of one Peter Parker. Things in Brooklyn won’t stay quiet forever as numerous criminals start to appear, including Rhino, which means Morales will have to suit up and defend his city.

You might recall that this character was created by Brian Michael Bendis and Sara Pichelli as part of the ever-expanding Spiderverse, a challenge that both Ahmed and Garrón are up for.

“Bendis has the following he does for a reason,” Ahmed said. “His writing was one of the things that brought me back to Superhero comics after years away, so I suppose there’s some intimidation factor. But here, as elsewhere in the Marvel Universe, I just try to respect the work of those who came before me, while still putting my own stamp on these characters. Marvel stories are built from layers — other creators had to help define Peter Parker further after Stan Lee and Steve Ditko or we wouldn’t have the Spider-Man we love today!”

Keep an eye out for Miles Morales: Spider-Man #1, which will hit shelves on December 12.

Click HERE for the complete creators Q&A with Marvel.

Monkeys Fighting Robots Youtube

DC Comics Exclusive Preview: NEW CHALLENGERS #5

By

Anthony Composto - EIC

-

September 13, 2018

New Challengers #5 hits your local comic book store on September 19th, but thanks to DC Comics, Monkeys Fighting Robots has a four-page exclusive preview for you to check out.

The title is one of the “New Age of Heroes” series that spun out of Dark Nights: Metal, and the only series of the group that Metal writer Scott Snyder works on. New Challengers, like the rest of the “New Age” books, introduced a new, fresh cast of characters while recapturing a classic sense of comic book fun. With Challengers, Snyder and company go for an adventure vibe by forming a new Challengers of the Unknown, a team of adventurers originally created by Jack Kirby in the late 1950s.

About New Challengers #5:
The team returns to Challengers Mountain, only to find it completely obliterated! And without the mountain to replenish their borrowed time, it looks like they’re out of second chances. But for the Challengers to live to fight another day, they’ll need to use a power with a consequence that spells certain doom!

The issue is written by Aaron Gillespie and Scott Snyder, with pencils by V Ken Marion, inks by Sandu Florea, colors by Dinei Ribeiro, and letters by Deron Bennett. Brad Anderson worked on the cover with Marion and Florea.

Issue five is the penultimate issue of the series before it concludes with issue six on October 17th.

Check out the full preview:

Are you reading New Challengers? Comment below with your thoughts, and tell us what YOUR favorite “New Age of Heroes” comic has been.

Monkeys Fighting Robots Youtube

STAR WARS RIVALS: Another Failed Cash Grab Mobile Game

By

Daniel Forster

-

September 13, 2018

Disney once again rocks the gaming world, canceling the mobile game Star Wars Rivals while still in beta. In what many viewed as another failed cash grab free-to-play game, those who participated in the beta reported many issues. Things like poor reviews and backlash from over-priced items apparently led to the game’s demise.

In an official statement from Disney, the mobile game is being “retired.” Star Wars Rivals is no longer available as a download and those who have the beta will be able to play up to October 11. Disney, however, wasn’t done digging another hole.

“No refunds or credits will be offered for any virtual goods game currency or other items purchased by or provided to you.”

Considering the amount of backlash Disney took over Battlefront II and its original loot crate system — now is not the time for stinginess.

Where Star Wars Rivals Went Wrong

Split screen gameplay of Star Wars Battlefront II — Image via starwars.com, EA, and Lucasfilm

Rivals proclaimed itself a top-notch mobile PvP, featuring guilds and various arena’s. Built like Star Wars: Galaxy of Heroes mashed with Battlefront II, it’s surprising Disney went this route. Especially when gamers are still having problems in Star Wars: Battlefront II. Yes, EA and Disney, we’re talking about the annoying sound glitch in “Galactic Assault.”

Reviews of Star Wars Rivals were mostly negative. According to a review posted on Android Police, Rivals is “a free-to-play corridor shooter rife with poor controls, repetitive levels, and loot crates that are explicitly tied to plenty of in-app purchases.”

Disney finished the statement with, “we appreciate your support and understanding.” Which likely leaves many Star Wars gamers frustrated and confused. Many want changes, but is Disney really understanding and supportive about it? Their actions say otherwise.

The Future Of Star Wars Gaming Post Rivals Debacle

Cover image of Star Wars: The Old Republic video game — Image via Lucasfilm, EA, and Bioware

With Star Wars Rivals reminding many why there needs to be an overhaul, the future of Star Wars games also comes into questioning. Battlefront II is in the process of making some positive changes. Although, there’s still plaguing issues.

Many were hoping for an MMORPG, harkening back to the days of Star Wars: The Old Republic. But that also seems to be taking a back seat. Now with the cancellation of Rivals, the alleged open world game in production by EA is coming under heavy scrutiny.

What are your thoughts on the cancellation of Star Wars Rivals? And are you happy with the coming Battlefront II changes? Will the open world game make it to a beta stage? Let us know in the comments. “May the Force be with you, always.”

Monkeys Fighting Robots Youtube

Spider-Man PS4 Review: The Greatest Superhero Game Ever?

By

Kieran McLean

-

September 13, 2018

Marvel’s Spider-Man for the PlayStation 4 has been one of the most talked about games of the year but was it worth the hype? Following his sleep-wrecking playthrough of the game, Kieran is here with an in-depth review of the highly-anticipated game. Is swinging through New York as fun as it looks? Is the combat repetitive? Does the story rival the Marvel Cinematic Universe? Listen to Kieran’s review below to find out!

If you like what you hear, it would be awesome if you hit the like/subscribe buttons and drop a comment in the appropriate section.

More – Review: ‘BLACKkKLANSMAN’ Is A Powerful, Funny And Remarkably Relevant Story

After eight years behind the mask, Peter Parker is a crime-fighting master. Feel the full power of a more experienced Spider-Man with improvisational combat, dynamic acrobatics, fluid urban traversal, and environmental interactions. A rookie no longer, this is the most masterful Spider-Man you’ve ever played.

Listen to the review below:

[embedyt] https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dJLrmfEaWl8[/embedyt]

What is Kieran’s Movie Space?

Kieran’s Movie Space is an insightful, fun and reliable new podcast for fans of all things cinema. Host Kieran McLean delivers in-depth reviews of the latest movie releases, from small indie movies to massive blockbusters. New episodes weekly…or whenever I feel like posting.

Monkeys Fighting Robots Youtube

Jon Hamm Talks Fan Campaign For Him To Play Batman

By

Jonathan Bruce

-

September 13, 2018

He’s known as a compelling actor, but Jon Hamm is a popular choice to play Batman.

The former Mad Men star is a fan favourite to be the next Dark Knight. Matt Reeves’ film is to be production next year, but who’ll play Batman is unknown. As of now, Ben Affleck’s DCEU future is in doubt.

In an interview, the actor reveals his feelings on the fan campaign to make him the Dark Knight. Surprisingly, there are no offers for him to play a DC or Marvel role yet.

“I have had rumors about that since probably season one of Mad Men,” Hamm says. “I have never had a conversation with anyone about it, literally. And I’ve sat in the room with all these guys. I have never been offered anything. I think the Internet wants what it wants. But, I mean, a lot of people have to sign off on that, obviously not just the Internet.”

[embedyt] https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ixOCpGpzBLU[/embedyt]

Fans will most be interested to hear that Hamm is indeed a comic book fan. In the video, he professes to enjoying Marvel’s Black Panther. The actor is also the narrator in the second season of FX’s Legion.

“It depends on the script, what the story is,” he says. “I am a huge comic book fan, always have been. I have read comic books since I was nine or younger. And I am pretty knowledgeable about a lot of them. And I like the genre, and I like when they are done well.”

The main problem with Hamm playing Batman would be age. At 47, he is older than Affleck, who’s 46 years old. Zack Snyder purposely chose Affleck to play Bruce Wayne in his 40s as a twenty year veteran of crime-fighting. However, Reeves is looking at possibly casting a younger actor in the role. Furthermore, there’s an aspect as to the role that Hamm would not look forward to.

“I’d probably fit the suit. I’d have to work out a lot, which I don’t love,” Hamm explains. “But I am sure there is an interesting version of that being out there. And if they wanted to tap me on the shoulder and ask me to do it: why not?”

What do you think? Would Hamm make a great Batman? Share your thoughts below!

Monkeys Fighting Robots Youtube

TRAILER: ‘CAPTIVE STATE’ Is A Chilling SciFi Teaser About A Familiar Dystopian World

By

Ruben Diaz

-

September 13, 2018

The first teaser trailer for Captive State, Rupert Wyatt’s passive dystopian world released today and reveals a chilling science fiction world that’s all too familiar in too many terrifying ways. The film is set to release March of 2019 and distributed by Focus Features.

About Captive State

Set in a Chicago neighborhood nearly a decade after occupation by an extra-terrestrial force, Captive State explores the lives on both sides of the conflict – the collaborators and dissidents.

Captive State is directed by Rupert Wyatt who worked on the recent Planet of the Apes trilogy. Wyatt also directed the pilot of The Exorcist TV series and is leading the way on the Halo TV series coming in 2020 or when pigs fly. Needless to say, Wyatt’s direction bodes well for the film if you’re a fan of his fantastic Apes series. Wyatt is directing a great cast too, that includes John Goodman, Vera Farmiga, Alan Ruck, and even rapper Machine Gun Kelly.

Captive State is led by a solid director but also features a pretty great cast …

John Goodman
Vera Farmiga
Ashton Sanders as Gabriel
Jonathan Majors as Rafe
Alan Ruck as Rittenhouse
Kevin Dunn as Police Chief Igoe
David J Height as Master of Ceremonies
Machine Gun Kelly as Jurgis
Madeline Brewer as Rula
Ben Daniels as Daniel
D. B. Sweeney as Levitt
Kevin J. O’Connor as Kermode
Kiki Layne as Carrie
Marc Grapey as Mayor Ed Lee
James Ransone as Ellison
Rene’ L. Moreno as Courior

Author Note: Oddly, Goodman and Farmiga’s character names are left out on IMDB. Might this be explained by a twist in the film’s story?

The trailer begins with those words above and shots of the White House. Since it’s set only 10 years from now, it all feels familiar. For most of the teaser, the film does the job of making it feel like a Purge-like drama, but that’s before the giant alien ship appears (see photo below) and it all goes to a whole new awesome level.

After a bit of a bidding war over the movie, Participant Media and Amblin Partners got the rights to make Captive State. The film is written by Wyatt and his wife, Erica Beeney and was shot in and around the Chicago area. Now, Captive State boasts a chilling faux website from the near future with stories about this dark new world. And this new teaser is definitely a great start towards greasing the wheels of the hype machine.

Did this trailer get you excited for Captive?
Leave your comments below!

Monkeys Fighting Robots Youtube

New SOLO Deleted Scene: Han Snubs Empire Leadership With Crashed TIE Fighter

By

Daniel Forster

-

September 13, 2018

The digital and Blu-ray release of Solo: A Star Wars Story is just around the corner, and with it comes another sneak peek clip of Solo doing what he does best. Not following orders and rubbing others the wrong way.

Courtesy of EW, the new deleted scene video shows Solo crashing a TIE fighter. It wasn’t his fault, though. At least, that’s Han’s story and he’s sticking to it.

The deleted scene further fleshes out the events which led to Han being on Mimban. In typical Solo style, he doesn’t follow orders and miraculously survives a crash landing. Barely getting his TIE fighter back to the hanger bay, Han is brought before a committee to stand trial.

Why Solo Is Regarded Is A Divisive Film

Han Solo being a scoundrel in A New Hope — Image via Wookieepedia – Fandom and Lucasfilm

The deleted clip displays good, and somewhat disappointing parts from Solo: A Star Wars Story. Han saying, “This conversation is over,” harkens to similar statements made in A New Hope. It reveals the scoundrel fans love — cocky, rebellious, and one who you should never tell the odds to.

Han’s conversation with the committee and his punishment as a stormtrooper pilot, however, might rub some fans the wrong way. It’s cute and funny, but is it Star Wars? Ultimately, this is the root of much debate.

The deleted scene obviously lacks finishing touches. But the actions of our favorite nerf-herder during his trial are questionable. From what Star Wars fans know about Imperial officers, Han should’ve been executed or locked up for good. Stormtroopers aren’t exactly known for having opinions. Han acting this way in A New Hope worked, because by that point he’s a smuggler and a scoundrel.

It’s scenes like this which can rip someone right out of the moment. There’s nothing wrong with doing new things in the Star Wars franchise. Dave Filoni has proven it’s possible. Retconning established behaviors and actions from an era fandom is familiar with, however, can have disastrous effects.

Solo: A Star Wars Story is available for digital download September 14^th. The Blu-ray is available on September 25^th.

Are you excited to see the deleted scenes in Solo? Are you planning to purchase Solo when it releases? Let us know in the comments! Until next time, “may the Force be with you, always.”

Monkeys Fighting Robots Youtube

First Teaser For Netflix’s CHILLING ADVENTURES OF SABRINA

By

Matthew Sardo

-

September 13, 2018

Thursday morning Netflix dropped the first teaser to the Chilling Adventures of Sabrina, which premieres October 26.

About the series:
Chilling Adventures of Sabrina imagines the origin and adventures of Sabrina the Teenage Witch as a dark coming-of-age story that traffics in horror, the occult and, of course, witchcraft. Tonally in the vein of Rosemary’s Baby and The Exorcist, this adaptation finds Sabrina wrestling to reconcile her dual nature — half-witch, half-mortal — while standing against the evil forces that threaten her, her family and the daylight world humans inhabit.

Chilling Adventures of Sabrina stars Kiernan Shipka, Miranda Otto, Lucy Davis, Ross Lynch, Michelle Gomez, Chance Perdomo, Jaz Sinclair, Richard Coyle, Tati Gabrielle, Adeline Rudolph, Abigail Cowen, Lachlan Watson, Bronson Pinchot, and Gavin Leatherwood. Riverdale showrunner Roberto Aguirre-Sacasa, who also serves as chief creative officer of Archie Comics, penned the script for the series.

Are you excited to see this Archie comic come to life on Netflix? Comment below with your thoughts.

Monkeys Fighting Robots Youtube