— Nintendo of America (@NintendoAmerica) May 16, 2017
You can watch the direct from Nintendo’s website, here, or their Twitch channel, here.
What do you expect from today’s showcase? If I were making a predictions list, I’d say we get a slew of information about ARMS that includes a new character, several new stages, and at least one new mode. And as for Splatoon 2, I have a suspicion that they’ll show off the story mode we’ve heard little about.
Sound off with your predictions in the comments below.
The summer issue of Empire Magazine features a cover character that we all know and love.
Tom Holland’s Spider-Man is highlighted on the front, as the photo gives us a close up of his suit.
The magazine will be available for purchase on May 18. Will you be picking it up?
Spider-Man: Homecoming features Tom Holland, Michael Keaton, Donald Glover, Zendaya, Marisa Tomei, Robert Downey Jr., Jon Favreau, Tyne Daly, Tony Revolori, Bokeem Woodbine, and Hannibal Buress.
“A young Peter Parker/Spider-Man (Tom Holland), who made his sensational debut in Captain America: Civil War, begins to navigate his newfound identity as the web-slinging super hero in Spider-Man: Homecoming. Thrilled by his experience with the Avengers, Peter returns home, where he lives with his Aunt May (Marisa Tomei), under the watchful eye of his new mentor Tony Stark (Robert Downey, Jr.). Peter tries to fall back into his normal daily routine – distracted by thoughts of proving himself to be more than just your friendly neighborhood Spider-Man – but when the Vulture (Michael Keaton) emerges as a new villain, everything that Peter holds most important will be threatened.”
A mysterious murder brings Alec Holland, the Swamp Thing, to the streets of Gotham City. Teaming up with Batman, the Swamp Thing begins an investigation that eventually leads him to something personal that forces Holland to face not only his past but his ties to his humanity as well. And as a man living under the shadow of his parents’ death, Batman will find himself more emotionally involved that he would like. It’s a tale of murder, plants, villains and parents.
Batman #23
‘The Brave and The Mold’ Written by: Tom King Art by: Mitch Gerads Lettered by: Clayton Cowles Published by: DC Comics
I’d been waiting months to read this issue, and what a payoff! Swamp Thing is one of my favorite characters, and teaming him with Batman usually makes for one of the best “odd couple” pairs in comics. This issue continues that great tradition with one of the best team-ups between the two I have ever read. This is pretty much a perfect “done-in-one” issue of comic book storytelling, and a master class in capturing the essence of a character. Read on for 11 reasons Batman #23 is without a doubt a must read this week!
Page from ‘Batman’ #23
It’s Tom King writing Swamp Thing! ‘Nuff said! Not since Allan Moore has Alec Holland been this well written.
The title ‘The Brave and The Mold’ tells you all you need to know about the story you are going to read. It’s both playful, acknowledges the past, and hides a deeper meaning once you have finished.
Mitch Gerads’ art is simply gorgeous. The symmetrical layouts and panels not only create great pacing, they are also just beautiful to look at. Plus he draws the most amazing Swamp Thing since Stephen Bissette.
King’s ability to balance humor, horror, and sentiment, sometimes even in the course of a few panels.
The chapter headings that create a great sense of storytelling.
Alfred meticulously sweeping behind Swamp Thing.
Kite Man! (This is the second time King has used Kite Man. I love it.)
“The grass…told me”
“Why do you need a car?” –Swamp Thing. “Why do you need a body?” –Batman. “Heh” –Swamp Thing
The brutal horror Swamp Thing is capable of unleashing. Can’t forget his monster roots.
Batman’s vulnerable and emotional outburst at the end.
Page from ‘Batman’ #23
I know I have dropped a lot of hyperbole on this title for the better part of a year, but Tom King and his various collaborates just continue to surprise me. It’s safe to say this is already a classic run, and this is the kind of issue that will be collected in ‘Best Of’ trades and lists for years to come.
The Eisner Awards were revealed once again last week, ahead of July’s San Diego Comic Con. For those unfamiliar, the Eisner Awards are the “Oscars” of comics, celebrating the best work of the medium. Their release always sparks rounds of congratulations and debate. In fact, they’ve already changed this year; Love is Love, the anthology supporting the victims of the Orlando shooting, was added post-release to the “Best Anthology” category.
However, there are always winner and losers, even before awards night. Without further ado, here is how the Eisner nominations played out for the biggest publishers in the industry.
It’s all about Image
Just like last year, Image took the lion’s share of nominations among the major comics publishers, claiming 21 total nods. But their real win came from category sweeps; Best Continuing Series, Writer, Cover Artist, and Coloring were all majority held by Image. On the top of their heap is Kill or Be Killed and Saga, each with four nominations (the most of any nominated title), and Monstress with three nominations.
This is all to say that Image had yet another phenomenal year. They continue to produce some of the highest quality writing and art of any in the medium. If you haven’t read any of their nominated titles, now is the time. Image is having a Comixology sale on all its Eisner nominees, including the ones listed above, as well as Criminal, Paper Girls, Descender, One Week in the Library, Outcast, and Plutona.
Feels like Vertigo
DC Comics had a total of 13 nominations, most of which were for standalone stories or their Vertigo imprint. Included in this is Astro City by Kurt Busiek and Brent Anderson, Clean Room by Gail Simone and Jon Davis-Hunt, Dark Knight: A True Batman Story by Paul Dini and Eduardo Risso, and Wonder Woman: The True Amazon by Jill Thompson.
Only three of the Rebirth titles garnered nominations: Batgirl from Hope Larson and Rafael Albuquerque (Best Publication for Teens), Deathstroke: Rebirth by Christopher Priest, Carlo Pagulayan, et al. (Best New Series), and Wonder Woman, colored by Laura Martin (Best Coloring). However, all three of these nominations are great news for larger DC Entertainment, with the Wonder Woman film releasing in early June, Deathstroke set to appear in the upcoming Batman film, and the recently announced Joss Whedon-helmed Batgirl film. Hopefully they capitalize on this good press.
Marvel-ous Women
Marvel nabbed a total of 11 nominations across eight categories. What stood out in their lineup was the number of women-led books and creators nominated. The Mighty Thor, Mockingbird, and Black Widow all received two nominations, and The Unbeatable Squirrel Girl picked up one. Creators nominated included Marjorie Liu, Chelsea Cain, Kate Niemczyk, Erica Henderson, and Laura Martin.
Given the rough time Marvel has been having in the press lately, this should be welcome news. Highlighting their nominees could go a long way toward building back a good public image.
Speaking of Women…
Last year, the Eisner’s nominated 49 women for 61 awards. This year they came in at 47 women for 58 awards. For those keeping score at home, that’s less, which is bad. Hopefully next year they build forward momentum.
Focusing on the positives of this year, Jill Thompson, Fiona Staples, Erica Henderson, and Sana Takeda all took home three nominations each, for books like Beasts of Burden: What the Cat Dragged In, Wonder Woman: The True Amazon, Saga, Jughead, The Unbeatable Squirrel Girl, and Monstress. If you’re not reading any of these titles, change that.
What Eisner nominated titles are you reading? Let us know in the comments, or on Twitter and Facebook!
Thus far on the American Gods TV series, we have seen a goddess consume people with her vagina, a spider God convince slaves to burn their ship with them on it, and a saucy offer from Lucy Ricardo to show off her tits. Where can Head Full of Snow, the third episode in the series, take viewers this time around?
In this episode, we see, for the most part, how comforting the Gods of old can be. And, in the world we live in today, we could all use a little more comfort.
Anubis, the Egyptian God of death, is comforting to an older woman coming to the realization she has passed on. Though the God is an intimidating physical presence, he offers the woman solace, and even a little humor, as he takes her on to the next life.
Shadow, angered and confused by the world he has been thrust into, is comforted by Zorya Polunochnaya, who offers him the moon in the form of a coin, in exchange for a kiss. With a boost of confidence, he proposes a second game with Czernobog, after attacking his ego that he might not be able to kill Shadow with just one blow. Shadow taunts Czernobog, and eventually wins the rematch, so the Old God agrees to come with him and Wednesday to Wisconsin… and then kill him after.
Wednesday offers comfort to Shadow as well, in the midst of a planned bank robbery. Shadow, not wanting to go back to prison a week after being released, is inspired by Wednesday to make it snow, using only the power of his mind. Shadow, as logical a mind as any, sees the world as science and fantasy. But Wednesday offers Shadow a new perspective, that the world isn’t so black and white, but on a spectrum.
The bank robbery gave this episode a humor that previous episodes had not had a chance to do. Wednesday may be dangerous and enigmatic, but, here, he is also a delight – clever, charismatic, and confident in his plan. His only fear, as is with anyone, is being forgotten.
Lo and behold, Shadow makes it snow, and also plays along in Wednesday’s robbery, and plays it well. He is becoming more and more comfortable in this world, standing toe-to-toe with Gods.
The Gods can also be of comfort sexually. An immigrant, Muslim salesman, down on his luck, finds an unexpected romance in his taxi-driver – who happens to be a Jinn. What happens is one of the most honest scenes of graphic sexuality to ever appear on television. The two took comfort in one another, finding a companionship they had yet to find in their new home.
Oh yes, and Mad Sweeney returns. Only this time, he is a bit down on his luck, and taking down others in his path. His lucky coin is missing, and Shadow is the only one who knows where to find it. When Shadow reveals where he left the coin, Sweeney goes to retrieve it, only to find it missing still. The result leaves the episode on a cliffhanger that will make Shadow believe that the things that he once presumed impossible are anything but.
After only three episodes, American Gods has set the bar high for others to follow, in terms of striking visuals and compelling messaging.
If you haven’t yet, read the Monkeys Fighting Robots reviews of the previous episodes:
Alien: Covenant is an improvement on Prometheus but falls short of being a great science fiction film due to Ridley Scott belaboring key points of the narrative.
Summary
The film set out on a strong course with an incredibly creepy prologue that lays the groundwork for the narrative. The Covenant is a vessel carrying 2,000 people including a crew of 15 meant for colonization. A tragic space accident occurs involving solar flares and the crew’s captain is killed. The second in command (Billy Crudup) assumes control of the vessel and does his best to maintain the momentum of the previous captain. However, he can sense that the crew is restless and the idea of six more years on this ship is becoming less and less appealing. Luck appears to finally break their way when the sensors pick up a planet that seems entirely habitable and it’s less than a week away. The science officer (who happens to be a terraforming expert played by Katherine Waterson) doesn’t agree with the captain’s decision but he won’t listen to reason. Among the crew is an android named Walter (Micheal Fassbender). The android bears a striking resemblance to David who was a member of Prometheus’s crew (a little bit of foreshadowing). When the crew eventually reaches the surface, they quickly realize that this seemingly harmless planet is home to a terror just waiting to spread across the cosmos.
What Worked
It’s safe to reveal, as it already has been in multiple trailer releases, that one of the highlights of the film was the dynamics between Walter and David. Walter is clearly created with the purpose of serving his crew while David was created with the purposes of forethought. His creators instilled in him the idea that man can and should evolve and we could create a better species. Walter believes in limits and David doesn’t see any limitation, even it means harming others, or in this case, a planet.
I thought Katherine Waterson did a good job in the film. While some might have wanted her to slip into a role similar to that of Sigourney Weaver, her character was equal parts logical and badass.
Danny McBride is great as well in playing his typical role of a hothead with heart. One of the more powerful moments in the film is between Waterson’s character and McBride’s as she has to break the news to him that his wife is dead.
The production design was good and really added elements that helped to enhance the scare factor in the film. For example, David’s laboratory wasn’t the most well lit and easily accessible place on the planet. It was dark and dreary (partially due to the weather) making those Aliens seem scarier than they probably were.
While we are talking about the Aliens, the special effects were on par with what we’ve come to expect from Ridley Scott.
What Didn’t Work
Scott spends a great deal of time discussing creationism in the film. David’s purpose is to explore and seek out the best version of ourselves. Walter’s is to serve and provide for others. While the dichotomy between the two characters is certainly compelling, the discussion goes on and on to the point where it weighs down the film.
Other than perhaps Waterson’s character, there is a supreme lack of character development during the picture. It’s almost as if the cast is meant to play “stereotypes” not actual people. McBride plays the hot-headed pilot. Waterson is a level-headed science officer. Crudup’s is someone who relies less on data and more on faith.
Overall
Alien: Covenant is an effective science-fiction thriller that attempts to recapture the franchise’s past glory but falls short. If the picture had focused more on the terror of Xenomorphs and less on why they existed then it would have lead to a more enjoyable experience. It’s certainly an upgrade over the dreadful experience that was Prometheus and makes us hopeful for what’s to come.
Zemeckis and Now Matthew Vaughn? ‘The Flash’ Is In Good Hands!
At first, it was just rumors of Robert Zemeckis vying for the director role for ‘The Flash‘. But now it seems there is someone else! And it’s someone with experience in the comic book movie genre. Unnamed sources for Variety have said that Warner Bros. is close to locking down a director and it might be Matthew Vaughn!
Going with either choice, ‘The Flash‘ film is walking away with a solid director. The project seemingly can’t keep a director but every choice has been great. While it does hurt to keep losing directors, fans are hopeful the end result is still strong. Losing Seth Grahame-Smith at first was hard but Rick Famuyiwa leaving served as the biggest blow. The project has been in limbo ever since so this rumbling of director news is a good sign.
Given Vaughn’s experience in the genre with films like ‘Kick-Ass‘ and ‘X-Men: First Class‘ shows, he has what it takes. It’s just all about finding that perfect script and the best story to tell. Joby Harold recently worked on re-writes to the script but with a visionary like Matthew Vaughn, things might be tweaked again. With a solid cast and plenty of stories to work off of, landing this director is the final piece to a nearly perfect puzzle.
‘The Flash‘ is still scheduled for a 2018 release. No release date information currently.
You can find Ezra Miller playing Barry Allen/The Flash in this year’s ‘Justice League‘. That film will hit theaters on November 17. Cameoing in ‘The Flash‘ is another member of the Justice League, Victor Stone A.K.A Cyborg. Seeing those Ray Fisher and Ezra Miller together on-screen will give you a good indication of the upcoming film.
What do you think of these choices? Who do you think should direct DCEU’s ‘The Flash‘? Let me know in the comments below!
After catching some heat for a lack of advertising, DC is switching gears and partnering with comics book shops and chain retailers alike to celebrate “Wonder Woman Day” on June 3rd, according to The Hollywood Reporter.
Wonder Woman Turns 75
Diana Prince burst onto the comics scene 75 years ago in 1941. At the time, her creation as a female superhero was revolusionary. Even now Wonder Woman is easily the most popular independent female superhero. She didn’t emerge from an existing franchise and is not exclusively a member of the Justice League. This anniversary is certainly worth celebrating–regardless of the years passing by, Wonder Woman remains popular across all media formats. This year, her first full-length live action film premieres on June 2nd, and DC is helping promote the film with a massive event simply called “Wonder Woman Day”.premieres on June 2nd, and DC is helping promote the film with a massive event simply called “Wonder Woman Day”.
Wonder Woman Day
To celebrate, DC Entertainment coupled with over 2,000 comic book shops, book stores and libraries. Locations include retail chains such as Barnes & Noble, Books-A-Million, Walmart, and Costco. Hollywood Reporter says that the outlets will each have exclusive in-store promotions. Amazon will also participate with online content. Warner Brothers Interactive Entertainment and Consumer Products will also push the event, though details on that are still a mystery. “Wonder Woman Day” certainly won’t make up for DC’s lackluster advertising campaign for Wonder Woman, it certainly demonstrates that DC understands the love fans of all ages have for Diana.
If you’re out celebrating this June 3rd, spend Wonder Woman Day picking up one of our favorite origin stories if you haven’t already.
Based on DC Comics characters, Wonder Woman releases in American theatres on June 2nd, 2017. Patty Jenkins (Monster, Arrested Development) directs. The writing team includes Zach Snyder, Allan Heinberg and Jason Fuchs. Wonder Woman stars Gal Gadot (Wonder Woman/Diana Prince) and Chris Pine (Steve Trevor).
As most North Americans who live above the 49th parallel know, Canada turns 150 this year. And, debates over the appropriateness of observing this colonial development aside (there are many), canucks are undeniably subject to a deluge of patriotically dressed products. Independent brewing giant Moosehead Breweries Ltd. is no exception. But, more than other Canadian companies, Moosehead has a lot to celebrate this year: Moosehead is also turning 150.
Originally named The Army & Navy Brewery, Susannah and John Oland opened for business in Nova Scotia in 1867. Originally boasting an employee list of just 11 people, the Army & Navy Brewery changed name and location, eventually ending up in St. John, New Brunswick. Surviving two fires, the deaths of John, Susannah, and Conrad Oland, and the Halifax explosion, the company that became Moosehead Breweries Ltd. in 1947 stayed in the hands of the Oland family. And, 150 years and five generations after Susannah and John opened their doors, Moosehead Breweries Ltd. is still owned and operated by the Oland family.
So, what better way to celebrate Moosehead’s sesquicentennial year than enjoying the brew that put Moosehead on the map? No, I’m not talking about the previously reviewed and ever-popular Moosehead Lager. I’m talking about Moosehead Pale Ale, the first brew to sport the Moosehead name. I’ve never tried this beer before — in fact, I didn’t know it existed — but as a lover of pale ales I’m excited to sample this piece of Canadian brewing history.
Moosehead Pale Ale – First Sip
Moosehead Pale Ale pours a transparent light golden colour with a thick layer of foam that gradually fades to a film at the top of my glass. I notice a grainy aroma as I take my first sip and enjoy its well-rounded flavour, similar to that of Moosehead Lager. In fact, I’m a bit surprised at just how similar Moosehead Pale Ale is to Moosehead Lager. I’m ashamed to say that in a blind taste test this reviewer would be hard pressed to tell the difference. Moosehead Pale Ale has a slightly more bitter finish than its lager counterpart, but in terms of mouthfeel the two brews are, again, very similar.
Moosehead Pale Ale – Last Sip
Though Moosehead Pale Ale may be similar to Moosehead Lager, that’s no great strike against it. Both are tasty all-occasion brews with well-rounded flavours and semi-sweet aftertastes. I got mine in a tall can, basically a pint, and though I had but one I would’ve drunk many more if I had the opportunity.
Again similar to its lager counterpart, Moosehead Pale Ale has a respectable 5% ABV rating that makes it a good beer to have a few of along with the comfort food of your choice.
The Inhumans series will make its debut in style, which happens to be in IMAX theatres. On Labor Day, the first two episodes will be shown in cinemas across North America for two weeks. Following the two week IMAX run, ABC will begin airing the show on Fridays at 9:00 p.m. The rest of the episodes will include additional content for the network.
The team is divided, but who cares?
Agents Of S.H.I.E.L.D is getting a fifth season, but it won’t be coming back right away. Rather, the series will take a break during the Inhumans run in fall 2017. It is going to return on Fridays in 2018.
Meanwhile, Once Upon a Time is also moving its timeslot. The fantasy drama is switching to Fridays, during which it will air one hour before the Inhumans show. This news come just after OUAT‘s renewal for a seventh season.
According to Entertainment Weekly, the Inhumans has a new log-line. The new information provides a bit more content as to the events that kick off the series. It is as follows:
“Marvel’s Inhumans explores the never-before-told epic adventure of the royal family in Black Bolt, the enigmatic, commanding King of the Inhumans, with a voice so powerful that the slightest whisper can destroy a city. After the Royal Family of Inhumans is splintered by a military coup, they barely escape to Hawaii where their surprising interactions with the lush world and humanity around them may prove to not only save them, but Earth itself.”
The cast includes Anson Mount, Serinda Swan, Iwan Rheon, Ken Leung, Erne Ikwuakor, Mike Moh, and Isabelle Cornish. Scott Buck, Jim Chory and Jeph Loeb are going to serve as producers.
Marvel’s Inhumans is set for launch on September 1 2017.
Diana Prince burst onto the comics scene 75 years ago in 1941. At the time, her creation as a female superhero was revolusionary. Even now Wonder Woman is easily the most popular independent female superhero. She didn’t emerge from an existing franchise and is not exclusively a member of the Justice League. This anniversary is certainly worth celebrating–regardless of the years passing by, Wonder Woman remains popular across all media formats. This year, her first 
