Chris Hardwick's Blog, page 1777

Hot Toys’ IRON SPIDER Figure Helps Bring in the Next Generation of Avengers

Even though it’s already been three years and he has been featured in multiple movies, Spider-Man in the MCU is still a sight a lot of fans never thought they would see. Thanks to amazing (pun intended) performances by Tom Holland, the web-slinger has been a welcome addition to the franchise. With Infinity War being released in about a week’s time, Hot Toys felt that it was proper to reveal its Iron Spider sixth-scale figure to the world.

Considering how Peter Parker turned down the suit at the end of Homecoming, it seems like things have escalated, since it only took his next movie appearance to don the new garb. After the trailers so far, it makes sense. Tony probably doesn’t want him involved at ALL, but since it looks like there is no choice, Peter had better be as protected as possible.

The Iron Spider suit was such integral part of the Civil War storyline in the comics (representing Spider-Man’s switching of loyalties), so even though it makes sense that it wasn’t featured in Civil War the movie, having it now makes it worth the wait. So far, we’ve only seen the pincers on the suit in toy form. We can already hear the roar of the audience when they make their big screen debut.

The figure comes with two head sculpts, with the masked one sporting four sets of interchangeable eyepieces. It also comes with a multitude of different webbing effects, hand poses and a collectible stand. Out of all the “who’s going to die” theories with Infinity War, Spidey’s survival seems well in hand, since he’s sure to lead the next generation of heroes into the future of the MCU. And, uh, a Homecoming sequel is already confirmed.

You can check out more pictures of the figure in the gallery down below, and can pre-order it from Sideshow Collectibles on their website here.

So what do you think of the Iron Spider? Will this new costume make it out of Infinity War in one piece? Let me know on Twitter @donnielederer or sound off in the comments below.

Images: Hot Toys/Sideshow Collectibles

We’re Hot for Toys. You?

First, check out Thanos.
Captain America’s awesome beard is lovingly sculpted.
And blonde Black Widow has no roots showing.

Take the Sounds of a Purring Cat Anywhere with This Emulator

Dog people get to play fetch and go to the park with their best friends. Cat people can’t do that exactly, but they aren’t left out in the cold. Their companions come with a white noise generator to help their humans relax, feel less stressed, and even help them sleep. We are talking about the purr of course. And if you miss the sound of your feline friend purring while you’re at work or traveling, you no longer have t worry. Via Boing Boing, creator Stéphane Pigeon has made a website where you can take a purring cat anywhere you want.

Purrli is an emulator that lets you listen to a cat’s purr via the internet and allows you to customize the purr you want to hear. You know when you go to Brookstone at the mall and sit in the massage chairs you can’t afford and mess with all the settings to get the “purr-fect” massage (if you honestly thought we were going to talk about this without using this pun at least once, there’s nothing we can do for you)? Purrli does the same thing, just with a purr. Is the cat sleepy or happy? Is it relaxed or overjoyed? You can even determine how often a “meow” is thrown into the mix.

If you sign up to become a patron of Purrli, you receive the added bonus of two other different types of kitties to make the customization even more “purr-sonal” (okay, that one we may be sorry about).

hat do you think? Are you going to add Purrli to your bookmarks? Let me know on Twitter at @donnielederer or sound off in the comments below.

Images: Purrli, Kabi/Wikimedia Commons

Purruse more cat stories!

Science explains why your cat keeps knocking stuff over.
This cat can’t catch fish under ice.
The show about a Japanese samurai and a cat. Seriously.

Will AVENGERS: INFINITY WAR Introduce the Fantastic Four?

As we move ever closer to the impending doom and destruction of Avengers: Infinity War, our minds are running wild with the potential and possibilities for the 19th movie in the Marvel Cinematic Universe. With big bad Thanos finally getting close to collecting all of his jewels, fans are already wondering what secrets will be revealed during the epic (almost) conclusion of Phase Three. Well, as always I’ve got a theory, here’s one that would turn the MCU on its head and see the return of some of the most beloved and mistreated characters of all time–yes, of course we’re talking about Marvel’s First Family… The Fantastic Four.

“But the Fox / Disney deal isn’t finished yet and might take another year to complete,” I hear you shout! Even though there’s a chance Marvel gained the FF rights back after the failure of 2015’s Fant-Four-Stick, I’m not actually suggesting that we’ll see Reed, Sue, Johnny, and Ben in Infinity War. I just think that it’s pretty likely Marvel will use the film as a way of introducing the idea of them, and most importantly their ridiculously great rogue’s gallery. One of the biggest critiques of the 18 existing Marvel movies is that their villains are often lacking, and although this has recently changed with Black Panther’s Erik Killmonger and Thor: Ragnarok’s Hela, there’s still a deficit of massive malevolent forces for the survivors of Infinity War to battle after they inevitably defeat or team up with Thanos.

Created by Jack Kirby and Stan Lee, the Fantastic Four have always had some of the most formidable foes, including two of the most iconic and epic big bads in all of sequential storytelling history: Doctor Doom and Galactus. Victor Von Doom is an evil genius from the fictional land of Latveria. A master of both magic and science, he’s a fan favorite villain who’s yet to be done justice on the big screen, and who–unlike the Fantastic Four themselves–has been a large part of the Marvel Comics universe in the past few years.

If you’ve yet to discover the incredible power of Galactus, then maybe you remember the terrible dust cloud at the end of 2007’s notorious Fantastic Four: Rise of the Silver Surfer? Well that was supposed to be Galactus, consumer of planets and wearer of a radical purple and pink suit. His creator Jack Kirby described him best in an interview with the new defunct Wizard Magazine: “Galactus in actuality is a sort of god. He is beyond reproach, beyond anyone’s opinion. In a way he is kind of a Zeus, who fathered Hercules. He is his own legend, and of course, he and the Silver Surfer are sort of modern legends, and they are designed that way.” For fans of Marvel Comics, it’s clear that Galactus is the only bad big enough to follow Thanos.

But how could Infinity War actually set up the entry of the Fantastic Four and their fearsome foes? Well, the seeds for that have already been sown. One of the biggest hints that the FF is en route to the MCU came when New York City’s Stark Tower / Avengers Tower was sold at the end of Spider-Man: Homecoming. Many fans were quick to point out that the large Manhattan skyscraper looked very similar to the FF’s homebase, the Baxter Building. So the most realistic way that the MCU could provide a more definite nod to the likelihood of the FF returning would simply be to mention that the Leland Baxter Paper Company has bought the building, as it was the original owner in the comics.

Of course there are some far more wacky and wonderful things which would make great post-credits stingers for Infinity War. Ever since Fantastic Four #51, an antimatter universe called The Negative Zone has played a large part in FF lore. Referred to as the “Crossroads of Infinity” upon its discovery, Reed Richards and his family have visited it regularly as have other characters including the original incarnation of Captain Marvel and Spider-Man. We know that Infinity War is going to see the universe change as the powers of the Infinity Stones are unleashed, so is it possible that the gems could open a portal to the Negative Zone, freeing the FF or perhaps Doctor Doom? It would be an easy way of explaining away the absence of the flagship heroes, and could simply reveal a large swirling portal, where we see a flick of a cape or a long elastic arm reaching out.

Seeing as I’m already putting some pretty wild theories out there, there’s also the chance the Time Stone accidentally could introduce a villain called Kang the Conqueror A.K.A. Nathaniel Richards. A distant descendant of Sue and Reed from the year 3000, Kang is an adept time traveller and also a very bad man. This would be an interesting way to introduce the Four, as we could see them brought in at a later date as they attempt to stop Kang. Last year James Gunn claimed that Kang belonged to 20th Century Fox, but there have been rumors swirling that the FF rights already returned to Marvel, so this wild theory might just come true. Any of these scenarios could lead to what I–and many FF conspiracy fans–have been thinking for a long time, which is that Avengers 4 will simply be called that, and the 4 will be circled just like the logo of Marvel’s First Family…

These are probably pipe dreams, but what is life if we don’t dream? Are you into our fantastic theories? Can’t wait to see Victor Von Doom back on screen? Just wanna see a real Galactus movie? Let us know below!

Images: Marvel Comics, ABC

Let’s go four for Four:

John Krasinski and Emily Blunt as Reed and Sue?
He will not direct them! He will naaaaaht. But Tommy Wiseau wants to.
How do Moon Girl and Devil Dinosaur connect?

Nerdist News: WTFriday #1: Star Wars Conspiracies and More!

Its a Star Wars conspiracy round up! Did you know there might have been two Lukes and two Wedge Antilles? We break it down with our Star Wars experts. Plus, Steven Spielberg might be jumping into the superhero movie game. Did Ready Player One set us up for this? Plus with the summer blockbusters about to kick off next week with Infinity War – we’re updating you with all you need to know about the epic crossover event. And finally – in honor of 4-20 today, we thought we attempt to stump our panel with some munchie related trivia… All of this and more on today’s Nerdist News: What The Friday!

Be sure to check out WTFriday live every Friday at 1PM (PDT) on Alpha!

Hound Tall #43: Marijuana

In honor of 420 we are discussing weeeeeeed. Its been legal in California for three months so what is the lay of the land now? What is the future of pot to bring? What is the best tree in northern California to smoke a bong out of…. With Comic/Expert/Stoner Ngaio Bealum and Jon Daly, Emily Heller and Caitlin Gill Smoke up and download!

Follow @MosheKasher on Twitter!

Subscribe to Hound Tall on Apple Podcasts and Spotify

The Todd Glass Show #342: Eliza Skinner Part 2

Here is part 2 of the incredible Eliza Skinner on The Todd Glass Show!

Like The Todd Glass Show on Facebook, follow @ToddGlass, Eric Ohlsen, John Brand Wagner, and Lyricist Joe on Twitter!

Watch Act Happy on Netflix and buy his book The Todd Glass Situation!

Subscribe to The Todd Glass Show on Apple Podcasts and Spotify

STAR WARS Conspiracies and More on NERDIST NEWS WHAT THE FRIDAY

Every week our Alpha and Twitch members help us wrap up the last seven days in pop culture by discussing the biggest stories with us at our new show Nerdist News What the Friday, our hour-long recap of the world of entertainment. It’s the supersized edition of our interactive series Nerdist News Talks Back, and normally you can only catch it exclusively at Project Alpha. But this week we’re making it available for everyone, so you can see what you’re missing, and also why it’s the newest edition to our Nerdist Podcast Network.

In this week’s episode host Jessica Chobot was joined by editor Amy Ratcliffe, Nerdist News writer Aliza Pearl, and producer Jesse Gill. They kicked things off by discussing the latest trailers for Deadpool 2 and Jurassic World: Fallen Kingdom. Two very different movies, two very different discussions. For example, are we okay some of those Deadpool jokes aren’t guaranteed to make the movie? And does the horror-house plot line for Fallen Kingdom have us more excited for the movie?



But that was just the start of this massive show, because on What the Friday we have time to get into anything and everything, so they also broke down what to expect from Westworld‘s second season, why the cast of Avengers: Infinity War can’t stop spilling spoilers, and our expectations for Marvel’s mega superhero mashup. And even the discussion about whether a dark side Force Ghost is possible in Star Wars: Episode IX is a possibility.

Finally it was time for this week’s main topic: Star Wars conspiracies, including multiple Wedge Antilles…es. (Antilli?), and whether there is more than one Luke Skywalker–a slightly Bigger Luke. What are these theories all about? Do they make any sense?

While you can always watch Nerdist News Talks Back live Monday through Thursday at 1PM PT on our YouTube and Alpha channels, remember Nerdist News What the Fridays usually airs exclusively at 1PM PT only at Alpha. As you can see if you’re not already a member you should sign up now, especially because your first 30 days are free.

But even if you miss tuning in live, you’ll soon be able to listen to What the Friday, because it’s joining our Nerdist Podcast Network. It’s the only way to get ready for the weekend, just ask Wedge Antilles…all of them.

What did you think of today’s show? Talk back to us about it in the comments below.

Image: Lucasfilm

Catch up on Nerdist News!

Why Deadpool 2‘s “Peter” is more important than you think.
Superman’s origin has been retconned.
Did the Russo brothers confirm our worst Avengers 4 fears?

We Know Peter Dinklage’s Role in AVENGERS: INFINITY WAR!

Warning: There are spoilers ahead for Avengers: Infinity War !

In the early casting announcements for Avengers: Infinity War, Game of Thrones star Peter Dinklage lined up a mystery role which has been a closely guarded secret. While Dinklage played Bolivar Trask in X-Men: Days of Future Past, fans quickly assumed his MCU character would be Pip the Troll. It seemed like the obvious choice, since Pip is a lot like Tyrion Lannister without a conscience. Dinklage was even spotted near the set with his hair dyed bright red, which is a signature look for Pip. But perhaps that was just what we were meant to think. Today’s Nerdist News is reacting to a new clip from the film which clearly identifies the character Dinklage is playing.

Join host and the last known survivor of the Infinity Watch, Jessica Chobot, as she tells us about Dinklage’s upcoming turn as Corvus Glaive, one of the Black Order and “the children of Thanos” who have come to Earth for the Infinity Stones. In hindsight, the Russo brothers really set us up for this revelation when they recently hinted that we would need a beat or two to recognize Dinklage. And we did!

Anthony Mackie debuted a clip from Infinity War on Good Morning America, and it featured Dinklage’s distinct voice as Corvus Glaive, even if it wasn’t quite what we expected. Terry Notary did the motion capture for Corvus Glaive, but the identity of his voice actor was under wraps until now.

Although Corvus Glaive is a relatively recent addition to the Marvel Universe, he’s played a big role in the Black Order. He’s married to Proxima Midnight, the character voiced by Carrie Coon in the movie. Corvus Glaive even went on to lead his own incarnation of the Black Order after they left Thanos’ service. He could potentially remain a threat for the MCU heroes even after the next two Avengers movies are over.

Are you excited about Dinklage’s role in Avengers: Infinity War? Let’s discuss in the comment section below!

Images: Marvel

More of the latest Nerdist News!

Why Deadpool 2‘s Peter is more important than you think!
How they’ve retconned Superman’s origins after 80 years!
Rick and Morty fans are overreacting to a My Little Pony cameo !

The First Song Composed on Nintendo Labo Is “All Star” Because, Internet

The Nintendo Labo is a new way to play games on the already versatile Nintendo Switch. The building kit comes with perforated pieces of cardboard you carefully put together by following the instructions on the screen. You can build a fishing rod, working robot, and more with the easy-to-follow directions and precisely cut pieces, and then use the assembled “Toy-Cons” to play games. The Labo, released on April 20, truly showcases the innovation of Nintendo for kids and adults of all ages to build and play with together.

And what does someone do with this creative resource on the first day it’s available? They use to play “All Star.” Yes, that earworm of a song by Smash Mouth.



YouTuber Akfamilyhome deemed his version “mediocre,” but considering it’s being played on a cardboard piano and a Nintendo Switch, it sounds pretty dang good to us. He also seems hopeful about the kit’s capabilities for creating other song covers and custom sounds.

I guess this is the first ever public Nintendo Labo music cover now

I think with stuff like custom sine waves and custom beat patterns actual music artists are going to have a field day with this

— Akfamilyhome (@akfamilyhomeak) April 20, 2018

If you want to see what else the Nintendo Labo can do, the company hired the perfect spokesman to give you an overview of the kit in action: Bill Nye, the Science Guy.

Bill’s enthusiasm is contagious. He makes not only putting the kit’s pieces together seem simple, but it’s obvious he’s having fun playing the games once the cardboard peripherals are complete. He also seems quite impressed with the system’s capabilities.

The Nintendo Labo is available today at game stores for a retail price of $69.99 for the Toy-Con Variety Kit (which includes the piano pieces), and $79.99 for the Toy-Con Robot Kit.

What song would you compose first on the Nintendo Labo? Tell us in the comments.

Featured Image: Nintendo

More games to play!

You can play Star Wars holochess for free on iOS.
Will the Mega Drive Mini be the Sega Genesis classic of our dreams?
Fallout: New California goes beta after nine years.

NASA Celebrates Hubble’s 28th Anniversary with Gorgeous New Lagoon Nebula Images

In honor of the Hubble Space Telescope‘s 28th anniversary, NASA has gifted all of us with stunning new images of the Lagoon Nebula. These photos serve as the latest reminders there is nothing more beautiful in the universe than the universe itself.

These latest gorgeous photos, which we first saw at Gizmodo, are Hubble’s look at the “rich star-birth region called the Lagoon Nebula, located in the constellation Sagittarius in the direction of our Milky Way galaxy’s central bulge,” which is around 4,000 light years away from Earth. This first image is the visible-light view, and its cotton candy-like colors create a photo that stands among Hubble’s best.

“At the center of the photo, a monster young star 200,000 times brighter than our Sun is blasting powerful ultraviolet radiation and hurricane-like stellar winds, carving out a fantasy landscape of ridges, cavities, and mountains of gas and dust.”

But if you prefer to see stars to colors, the infrared-light view image of it is in line with a more traditional idea of what space looks like. And by traditional we mean something that is totally incredible and will blow you away.

“This star-filled image…reveals a very different view of the Lagoon Nebula compared to its visible-light portrait. Making infrared observations of the cosmos allows astronomers to penetrate vast clouds of gas and dust to uncover hidden gems.”

But that’s not all, because NASA also released a very trippy video that lets us fly through it ourselves.



What’s even more exciting though is that NASA says these images give us “a sneak peek at the dramatic vistas NASA’s James Webb Space Telescope will provide” when it launches in 2020. Which means we’ll have even more anniversaries to celebrate the beauty of the cosmos.

What’s your all-time favorite Hubble image? Share it with us in the comments below.

Images: NASA

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Astronauts are reading children’s books in space!
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