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Watch Walton Goggins Transform Into FALLOUT’s The Ghoul

Video game fans have been safely enjoying the excitement/terror of a post-nuclear wasteland since 1997. That’s when Fallout and its ’50s-era Cold War aesthetic first came to stores. Since then countless sequels and spinoffs have turned the game into one of genre’s most successful franchises. Now Fallout is ready to conquer another medium entirely. It’s getting its very own show from Amazon. What kind of story can gamers expect from the Prime Video Fallout adaptation? Who’s behind it, and who will star in it? And when will we get a chance to see it?

One character that attracted a lot of attention in the lead-up to the Fallout series is The Ghoul. In Fallout, ghouls are human creatures who are transformed by radiation. The radiation their body absorbs allows them to survive for a long time in the wasteland of Fallout‘s universe, but also completely transforms their appearance. In the Fallout series, we can really see the impact of ghoulifcation clearly thanks to Walton Goggins’ portrayal of both The Ghoul and his former self, Cooper Howard.

Incredibly, the Fallout series used practical effects and makeup to alter Goggins’ appearance completely. The actor shared a timelapse of the process, and it’s really stunning. You can take a look at it above.

Fallout has now released on Prime Video. Here you can find a non-spoilery rundown of everything there is to know about Prime Video’s Fallout series.

TitleBethesda

Prime Video’s adaptation will share the same name as the original game, Fallout.

Fallout‘s Plot

We officially have our first full look at the Fallout series. Prime Video released the first trailer for the show and it teases a dangerous wasteland of a world. But it’s clear the show understands its dark humor as well.

Prime Video

Prime Video has shared an official Fallout series synopsis, setting us up for what’s to come. It reveals, “Based on one of the greatest video game series of all time, Fallout is the story of haves and have-nots in a world in which there’s almost nothing left to have. 200 years after the apocalypse, the gentle denizens of luxury fallout shelters are forced to return to the irradiated hellscape their ancestors left behind — and are shocked to discover an incredibly complex, gleefully weird, and highly violent universe waiting for them.“

📍 Vault 33
Location: Los Angeles

Fallout, an original series, coming to Prime Video in 2024 pic.twitter.com/tlHh2WutF4

— Prime Video (@PrimeVideo) August 23, 2023

Additionally, we know that the series is “set in the future post-apocalyptic Los Angeles.” It will also tell an “original story based on Fallout that will be part of the canon of the games.” 

Prime Video

The first image from the show featured a glimpse at the franchise’s all-new Vault 33. And more recent looks have revealed Fallout‘s main characters including Walton Goggins’ The Ghoul, Ella Purnell’s Lucy, Aaron Moten’s Maximus, and Kyle MacLachlan’s Overseer Hank.

Click To View Gallery Prime Video Prime Video Prime Video Prime Video Prime Video Prime Video JoJo Whilden

There will also be an adorable animal involved. In the Fallout games, a dog called Dogmeat exists as an NPC companion character that accompanies players on their adventures. According to a blog post from Amazon, the live-action Fallout series’ cute canine isn’t called Dogmeat, but instead is named CX404. But this pup, too, will serve “as a companion navigating the post-apocalyptic world.”

pic.twitter.com/k0WzPezPiN

— FALLOUT⚡️ (@falloutonprime) December 2, 2023

Behind the Scenes

Fallout comes from Bethesda Game Studios, Bethesda Softworks, and Kilter Films. The latter is the production company of executive producers Lisa Joy and Jonathan Nolan, creators of HBO’s Westworld.

Writers Geneva Robertson-Dworet and Graham Wagner will also serve Fallout co-showrunners and executive producers. Nolan directs the first three episodes.

Fallout‘s Cast

The show stars: Ella Purnell (Yellowjackets), Walton Goggins (The Hateful Eight), Aaron Moten (Emancipation), Moisés Arias (The King of Staten Island), Kyle MacLachlan (Twin Peaks), Sarita Choudhury (Homeland), Michael Emerson (Person of Interest), Leslie Uggams (Deadpool), Frances Turner (The Boys), Dave Register (Heightened), Zach Cherry (Severance), Johnny Pemberton (Ant-Man), Rodrigo Luzzi (Dead Ringers), Annabel O’Hagan (Law & Order: SVU), and Xelia Mendes-Jones (The Wheel of Time). 

Fallout‘s Release Date

The Fallout show began its post-apocalyptic adventure on April 11, 2024. All episodes of Fallout released at once.

The end of the world is coming, just a little sooner than expected. FALLOUT, now arriving April 10 @ 6 p.m. PT. pic.twitter.com/9AcWR9uAqQ

— FALLOUT⚡️ (@falloutonprime) April 9, 2024

Originally published on October 23, 2023.

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The post Watch Walton Goggins Transform Into FALLOUT’s The Ghoul appeared first on Nerdist.

Jack Black Confirms His Role in the Live-Action MINECRAFT Movie

From Mickey Mouse horror movies to streaming shenanigans to the Minecraft live-action movie casting news, here are some of our favorite odds and ends from pop-culture news that bubbled up in the last little while.

Lyrical Lemonade/Marvel Studios/Sleight of Hand Productions / Andrew L. Kern/Mojang StudiosOdds & Ends in Entertainment News

Jump to:

Jack Black Will Play Steve in Live-Action Minecraft Movie, Jennifer Coolidge and More Join CastAdam Driver Is Done with Star Wars, His Kylo Ren Will Not ReturnOppenheimer and Spider-Man: Across the Spider-Verse are Heading Back to IMAX TheatersWhat If…? Season 3 Is Coming Soon, Meanwhile Season 2 Almost Had a Truly Dark Spider-Man StoryJohn Wick Director Would Make a Star Wars Movie “If Disney Could Survive Me,” Wants a Swing at the MCU’s BladeA Second Steamboat Willie Horror Movie Is on the WayThe MCU’s Echo Series Will Be Dubbed in the Choctaw Language The First 10 Star Trek Movies Are Moving to Max Jack Black Will Play Steve in a Live-Action Minecraft Movie, Jennifer Coolidge and More Join CastLyrical Lemonade/Mojang Studios

Who doesn’t love a good live-action adaptation of a beloved game? According to Deadline, Jack Black, who recently had a well-received turn in the animated adaptation of Super Mario Bros., will take on the character of Steve in a live-action Minecraft movie. Steve, of course, is one of Minecraft‘s original player characters. He is made of blocks and has no official backstory. Thus, we’ll be extra interested to see how he, and the game, get adapted. Jack Black also recently confirmed that he will be singing in the Minecraft movie and doing so alongside co-star Danielle Brooks. The actor additionally confirmed his role as Steve in the live-action Minecraft movie with an Instagram post.

Additionally, The White Lotus star Jennifer Coolidge has also joined the cast of the Minecraft movie, according to Deadline. There is no word yet on the role she will play. Jason Momoa is currently set to star in the Warner Bros. movie.

HBO/Mojang Studios

Finally, it is reported that Kate McKinnon and Jemaine Clement have also come along the now star-studded movie.

Check out Jack Black performing the hit song “Peaches” from The Super Mario Bros. Movie.

Jack Black’s Song from THE SUPER MARIO BROS. MOVIE, ‘Peaches,’ Is Oscar Eligible

Adam Driver Is Done with Star Wars, His Kylo Ren Will Not ReturnLucasfilm

Daisy Ridley’s Rey will soon be back in a new Star Wars movie. But those hoping to see Adam Driver’s Kylo Ren strike back may end up disappointed. In a recent interview with the SmartLess podcast, which we saw via GameSpot, Driver revealed that more Star Wars content may be happening “but not with me.” Driver also noted, “I’m not doing any more.” Alas, we would say, never say never… But Driver seems pretty set in his thoughts for now.

It also turns out that Kylo Ren’s redemption arc wasn’t planned.

Adam Driver Reveals Kylo Ren’s Redemption Wasn’t Originally the Plan for the STAR WARS Character

Oppenheimer and Spider-Man: Across the Spider-Verse are Heading Back to IMAX TheatersUniversal Pictures

‘Tis the season for movies that are in contention for awards to head back to theaters. Two such movies, Oppenheimer and Spider-Man: Across the Spider-Verse will be doing exactly this in a big way. Both of these incredible movies will return to IMAX for a limited run. Oppenheimer will be back on IMAX theater screens beginning on January 12.

If you didn’t get a chance to catch ACROSS THE SPIDER-VERSE on the big screen – where you can see the jaw-dropping level of detail & innovation lovingly put into every frame – you’ve got another chance!
It’s returning to IMAX for a limited release on January 19th. Don’t miss it! pic.twitter.com/UCqeWCCSlv

— Christopher Miller (@chrizmillr) January 3, 2024

Meanwhile, Spider-Man: Across the Spider-Verse will hit IMAX on January 19. Both these movies are well worth watching on a huge screen, so don’t delay in getting your tickets.

Sony Animation

Here’s what we thought of Oppenheimer and Spider-Man: Across the Spider-Verse:

OPPENHEIMER Is a Harrowing, Chaotic Masterpiece

SPIDER-MAN: ACROSS THE SPIDER-VERSE Is a Visually Stunning and Frenetic Trip

What If…? Season 3 Is Coming Soon, Meanwhile Season 2 Almost Had a Truly Dark Spider-Man Story

What If…? season two only just released, but Marvel Studios has revealed that season three will be “streaming soon.” Although we don’t know exactly when soon is, we do already have a full clip from the next season of the animated show. In it, Bucky Barnes/Winter Soldier, voiced by Sebastian Stan, teams up with Red Guardian, voiced by David Harbour, and the pair go on an odd-couple road trip. Per Empire, Bill Foster/Giant Man, voiced by Laurence Fishburne, and a character named Ranger Morales also feature. We’ll take it.

Marvel StudiosMarvel Studios

Meanwhile, when it comes to season two of the show, What If…?‘s writer A.C. Bradley revealed there was almost an incredibly dark episode revolving around Spider-Man. Bradley noted, “I did write an episode, which is forever going in a drawer, that was very, very dark. I was calling it ‘Children of Men with Spider-Man.’” We can only imagine what on earth that might have entailed.

If you haven’t seen What If…? season two yet, you can check out its trailer below.

Marvel’s WHAT IF…? Season 2 Trailer Takes on Christmas

John Wick Director Would Make a Star Wars Movie “If Disney Could Survive Me,” Wants a Swing at the MCU’s BladeMavel Comics/Vanity Fair/Lucasfilm

Chad Stahelski, director of the John Wick franchise, recently discussed whether he’d make a Star Wars or MCU movie. Speaking with the Happy Sad Confused podcast, Stahelski had quite a few thoughts. When it comes to Star Wars, the director had mixed feelings. He noted, “I’m a Star Wars guy. The first Star Wars changed my life path. Maybe someday out there, Disney if you’re listening, hit me in a couple of years. I have a couple of takes for Star Wars. I’d take a swing at that, see if Disney could survive me.” Of course, he also discussed the difficulties of not having creative control in franchise situations, but ultimately, he’d want to take a swing.

Meanwhile, when it comes to the MCU, the John Wick director shared, “Of all the things out there, I would take a swing at Blade in a second. Like that’s one that gets under my skin, like ‘Ah! I’d take a swing at that one.'” And further offered, “We’ve talked about it, but look they’ve got a good formula… they have their thing going and I think they’ve got the right people involved in Blade now… I’m not in the Inner Circle but we’ve had talks… Just for whatever reason things come together, and there’s a good fit for everything out there. But for what they’re doing they’ve got a great thing going, but if that thing doesn’t work out, in five years from now… maybe on the fourth reboot of Blade or the fifth reboot of Blade… Maybe I can pull back Wesley and jump in.”

Hey, you never know.

For now, though, it seems like John Wick 5 is slowly becoming a reality.

JOHN WICK 5 Is Currently in the Works at Lionsgate

A Second Steamboat Willie Horror Movie Is on the WaySleight of Hand Productions / Andrew L. Kern

To no one’s surprise, a second Steamboat Willie horror movie is on the way. This one doesn’t have a trailer yet, but it does have some creepy art. And bonus, it actually takes place on a boat. That feels right. According to Variety, this public domain Mickey Mouse movie comes from director Steven LaMorte, who also directed The Mean One, a horror take on the Grinch. This Mickey movie, meanwhile, is an “untitled horror-comedy based on Mickey’s cartoon debut. In it, a sadistic mouse will torment a group of unsuspecting ferry passengers. Production is set to begin in the spring.” We’re sure this will not be the last Steamboat Willie/Mickey Mouse movie we’ll see whistling to life in the coming months.

The first announced Steamboat Willie horror movie, Mickey Mouse’s Trap, already has a trailer.

A Mickey Mouse ‘Steamboat Willie’ Horror Movie Trailer Is Already Here

The MCU’s Echo Series Will Be Dubbed in the Choctaw LanguageMarvel Studios

The MCU’s upcoming Echo series features a main character who is Native American. Maya Lopez (Alaqua Cox) a.k.a. Echo is a member of the Choctaw Nation. And so we are incredibly happy to hear that Marvel Studios will honor this aspect of the show by dubbing it in the Choctaw language. Director and executive producer Sydney Freeland shared the following with Entertainment Weekly:

In the process of working and collaborating with the Choctaw Nation of Oklahoma, in working with the Choctaw language experts and consultants, it became very apparent that we needed to do a dub in Choctaw as well. And we’re incredibly proud of it.

Placing the story of Echo in the actual Choctaw language helps make our character more authentic to her heritage, because we get to delve into the specifics of Choctaw culture and traditions. I’m indigenous, I’m American, but I’m Navajo. And the Choctaw language and the Navajo language are completely different from each other; they’re as different as Portuguese and Polish. And so one of the things that was important for us was making sure that we had people who were experts in Choctaw language. But a lot of really great things came out of that collaboration — specifically, in the second episode of our series, we actually get to see a portion of pre-European contact America that I can genuinely say has never been seen on film before. That came as a direct result of our collaboration with the Choctaw Nation in trying to tell a more authentic story.

We can’t wait to see and hear the results of this incredible collaboration in full.

Before Echo arrives, you can get to know Maya Lopez with our character explainer.

The Complete Marvel Comics History of Echo, a.k.a. Maya Lopez

The First 10 Star Trek Movies Have Moved to MaxParamount Pictures

What is life in the streaming age except constantly working to keep track of where your favorite movies can be watched? For a little while, all of Star Trek‘s films were on Paramount+. But now, as we saw via Comicbook.com, the first 10 Star Trek movies have moved to Max. Only the three Chris Pine-era movies remain on Paramount+. All we can say to those just trying to keep up is: live long and prosper.

More streaming shenanigans happen every day. The latest includes ads coming to Prime Video this January.

Amazon Updates That Freevee Will NOT Be Shut Down Now That Prime Video Has Ads

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Joseph Quinn Enjoyed Chris Evans’ Human Torch, Calls THE FANTASTIC FOUR ‘Brilliant’

When Disney purchased 20th Century Fox, lo those many years ago, that immediately meant all the X-Men characters could appear in the Marvel Cinematic Universe. It also meant Fox’s other (and let’s face it, far less successful) Marvel property, the Fantastic Four, was joining the fray. However, aside from a Reed Richards cameo in Doctor Strange in the Multiverse of Madness, the Fantastic Four have been MIA. But, hope is on the horizon! The Fantastic Four will be part of the MCU’s Phase Six.

Speaking to Entertainment Weekly, Joseph Quinn shared some insights into his The Fantastic Four role of Johnny Storm/Human Torch and discussed the movie itself. Quinn noted, “I remember really enjoying Chris Evans’s performance as Johnny in the previous films, and it felt like this would be a really exciting opportunity; I was absolutely signed up.” But the actor clarified that his turn as the Human Torch would be a fresh take, though he recognizes that, “It’s big boots [to fill].”

Marvel Studios

Looking at the MCU’s The Fantastic Four movie more specifically, Quinn reveals, “There are aspects of it that are very much a singular thing and its own thing.” And notes, “Working with Vanessa, Pedro, Evan — they’re really consummate pros and brilliant in everything they’re in. So I’m really looking forward to establishing this familial dynamic with them and with Matt Shakman’s guidance.” Additionally revealing:

There are aspects of it that are very different to other Marvel films. That felt very compelling to me. And again, going back to who’s involved, Matt, of course, the director, I think is brilliant, and the cast, and I’ve read it and the script is brilliant. It’s really brilliant. I’m delighted to have this opportunity.

Superhero movies are movies about people. And if we’re invested in the people and the characters and the peril and the spectacle, then that’s why people go to the theaters to watch films. We’re not just in a penny; we’re in for a pound with this one. We’re going to go for it.

Here’s everything we know about the MCU’s The Fantastic Four movie.

Title

All the initial branding from Marvel indicated the movie’s title would be Fantastic Four. Of the three previous Fantastic Four movies, two of them were just called Fantastic Four—despite the ill-fated 2015 movie’s logo making people call it “Fant-4-stic.”

Now we know that to slightly stand out, the MCU’s Fantastic Four movie will be called The Fantastic Four.

The Fantastic Four‘s Plot

Zero idea currently what the plot of the movie will be. Not a sausage. Bugger-all.

Marvel ComicsBehind the Scenes

The Fantastic Four is possibly the most in-flux title in the upcoming Marvel Cinematic Universe slate. Marvel Studios president and primary producer Kevin Feige announced the movie at San Diego Comic-Con 2019. Marvel then named Jon Watts, who directed the three Tom Holland Spider-Man films for Sony and Marvel, in December 2020. Watts then stepped away from the project in April 2022, stating he was taking a break from superhero movies.

Then, in August 2022, Marvel named Matt Shakman—who had directed WandaVision for Disney+—as Watts’ successor. Feige confirmed this at the D23 Expo in September of that same year.

Later in September, Marvel said Jeff Kaplan and Ian Springer were writing the script for The Fantastic Four. By March 2023, Terminator franchise and Avatar: The Way of Water screenwriter Josh Friedman was at work rewriting the script. In October 2023, Cameron Squires’ name was added as co-writer.

The movie has a scheduled start of production for early 2024.

The Fantastic Four‘s Cast

The MCU’s Fantastic Four team has officially set its cast. Pedro Pascal will play Reed Richards, a.k.a. Mister Fantastic. Vanessa Kirby will play Sue Storm, a.k.a. the Invisible Woman. Ebon Moss-Bachrach will play The Thing. Finally, Joseph Quinn will play Johnny Storm, a.k.a. the Human Torch.

Netflix/Marvel Comics

Recently Deadline reported Julia Garner (Ozark, Inventing Anna) will play the Shalla-Bal version of Silver Surfer. In the comics, Shalla-Bal appeared as Norrin Radd’s partner, but at one point, she received the same powers as the Silver Surfer and they were both Galactus’ heralds.

The Fantastic Four‘s Release Date

The Fantastic Four will release on July 25, 2025.

Originally published on December 22, 2023.

The post Joseph Quinn Enjoyed Chris Evans’ Human Torch, Calls THE FANTASTIC FOUR ‘Brilliant’ appeared first on Nerdist.

Here Are the FALLOUT Series Characters’ Official SPECIAL Stats

Prime Video’s Fallout TV series very cleverly brings to life the world of the Fallout games. Although, of course, a television series naturally unfolds in a different way than a game, there are moments when fans can almost see familiar gaming mechanics working behind the scenes. For example, when the Brotherhood of Steel’s squires carry the overlarge supply bag of their Knight, you can practically see an “Overencumbered” condition flash to life. Naturally, the Fallout series begs fans to ask, just what are the SPECIAL stats of its main characters. Happily, viewers don’t have to debate for too long. Bethesda has added the Fallout series’ main characters into Fallout Shelter. And that means the stars of the Fallout TV show, from Lucy to the Ghoul, now have official canon SPECIAL stats.

Jump to: What Are SPECIAL Stats in Fallout? // The Official SPECIAL Stats of the Fallout Series Main Characters (Lucy / The Ghoul / Maximus / Ma June) // Will the Special Stats of These Fallout Series Change?

What Are SPECIAL Stats in Fallout?Prime Video

SPECIAL stats are the main character statistics in the Fallout games. In Fallout‘s world, SPECIAL stands for Strength, Perception, Endurance, Charisma, Intelligence, Agility, and Luck. You need all of these in combination to survive the wasteland and Fallout‘s treacherous world. Each SPECIAL statistic is assigned a number between 1 and 10 during character creation. As a player evolves in the game, their statistics can evolve as well. And that’s something we should keep in mind when we take a look at the SPECIAL stats of the main characters from the Fallout TV series.

The Fallout TV Series Main Characters’ Official Special Stats, According to Bethesda’s Fallout ShelterBethesda Softworks

Bethesda recently added four characters from the Fallout series to its mobile game, Fallout Shelter. In addition to fun quests and new locations celebrating the show, Fallout Shelter also reveals the SPECIAL stats for its main characters: Lucy, The Ghoul, Maximus, and Ma June. You can check them out below.

Lucy’s Official Fallout SPECIAL StatsPrime Video

Here are Lucy Maclean’s canon SPECIAL stats in Fallout‘s world. Lucy may not be the strongest of players, but she does have a perceptive mind. And, well, it’s fair to call Lucy Maclean lucky—she did get to live most of her life in a safe and happy place, which is more than most people can say in Fallout‘s world. Overall, Lucy’s SPECIAL stats place her as a mostly average sort of person, a blank slate, if you will. But there’s a lot of journey left for her to go on in the Fallout series.

Strength: 4Perception: 7Endurance: 6Charisma: 5Intelligence: 6Agility: 5Luck: 7The Ghoul’s Official Fallout SPECIAL StatsPrime Video

The Ghoul, on the other hand, is definitely not a lucky guy. He’s spent 219 years in the wastelands feasting on butt jerky. We’re not sure we’d want that life. But, helping him survive are his endurance, perception, and agility. Of course, there’s also the Ghoul’s high charisma SPECIAL stat—but honestly, we’d give this Fallout character a 10 out of 10 in that department. Even without his nose, Walton Goggins is one charismatic fellow.

Strength: 5Perception: 6Endurance: 7Charisma: 7Intelligence: 4Agility: 7Luck: 4Maximus’ Official Fallout SPECIAL StatsPrime Video

Maximus’ canon Fallout SPECIAL stats tell a charming story. If Maximus wasn’t already clearly a himbo, his official stats confirm it. And we love that for him. Maximus might be a part of the ruthless Brotherhood of Steel, as his 7 in strength reveals, but he’s really a softie who just wants to lounge in a cozy bathrobe.

Strength: 7Perception: 6Endurance: 6Charisma: 5Intelligence: 4Agility: 7Luck: 5Ma June’s Official Fallout SPECIAL StatsPrime Video

Ma June may not be the main character in the Fallout TV series, but she is certainly a fascinating one. She really does help move the plot along, bringing together key characters, so we’re glad to learn more about this denizen of the Fallout series’ world via her SPECIAL stats.

Strength: 5Perception: 7Endurance: 5Charisma: 7Intelligence: 6 Agility: 4Luck: 6Could The SPECIAL Stats of These Fallout Series Characters Change?Prime Video

Of course, these SPECIAL stats are just the baseline for the Fallout series‘ main characters. We don’t know for sure if these stats represent the characters at the beginning or end of Fallout season one. But regardless, there’s lots of room for change as the characters continue to adventure. We bet we’ll see Lucy’s strength skyrocket eventually, and hopefully, the Ghoul can pick up just a smidge more luck. We’ll have to keep an eye on Fallout Shelter to see if these series characters’ stats change at all.

The post Here Are the FALLOUT Series Characters’ Official SPECIAL Stats appeared first on Nerdist.

SWEET TOOTH Reveals Season 3 Trailer and Premiere Date

Sweet Tooth‘s second season recently released into the world. It added another excellent chapter to the comic-book-based series, which deftly combines darkness and hope to tell a fantastical story. And, of course, Sweet Tooth features a variety of endearing half-human, half-animal beings. But there’s bittersweet news for fans of the Netflix show. The streamer has officially announced that season three of Sweet Tooth will be its final one. Three chapters may be more than many shows receive these days, but it’s never fun to know the end is in sight.

The season three trailer for Sweet Tooth will certainly stir up feels for fans. It has been a journey and, thankfully, it will get a definitive ending. Fans also won’t have to wait much longer because Sweet Tooth’s season three premiere date is June 6.

Creator, showrunner, and executive producer Jim Mickle notes, “In a lot of ways, it’s exactly the story that I imagined we would tell and in a lot of ways it takes on its own life. At the beginning, I think you set out to tell these landmark pieces of Gus’ story and the big pieces of the comic book, but the beauty of long-form storytelling and Gus’ journey over 24 episodes is the characters themselves tell you what they want to be. The crew and cast bring so much depth and point of view to who the characters are and where they’ve come from and where they’re going.”

Sweet Tooth will return for a third and final season! pic.twitter.com/tSMjWznWQi

— Netflix (@netflix) May 3, 2023

According to a release by Netflix, Sweet Tooth‘s third season has already been filmed. Mickle offers, “Season 3 is an Arctic story with exciting new adventures and what we hope will be a satisfying conclusion to this epic tale. Gus is going to see a side of the world and humanity that he didn’t see in Season 1 or 2.”

Netflix

New Sweet Tooth adventures for Gus, final adventures for us—but as Mickle notes, we’ll always have these 24 episodes.

Originally published May 3, 2023.

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Here’s How DC’s Justice League Should Return After a Two Year Comic Absence

Two years ago, DC Comics’ ongoing flagship Justice League title ended with issue #75. It featured the death of the entire League. Oh, they got better pretty quickly. By the end of the Dark Crisis on Infinite Earths event, they were all back in the land of the living. Having said that, the comic giant decided to let the concept of the Justice League rest while they figured out their next move, leaving the Titans as Earth’s protectors. However, these two years have been the longest DC has ever gone without publishing a title with “Justice League” in the name since 1960. So what’s the hold up with a new Justice League series? And how can DC make sure a new iteration becomes a necessary and talked about comic book?

DC ComicsDC Comics: A World Without a Justice League

The Justice League of America first appeared in Brave and the Bold #28, published in February 1960. After a successful three-issue trial, the JLA received their own series by the end of that year. Unlike the World War II era Justice Society, the JLA had Superman and Batman as regular members. This elevated the team to A-list status. Since 1960, an ongoing book with the words Justice League in the title has been published by DC. That unbroken run ended after 62 years in 2022. The idea was that they’d come back bigger and better very soon. But unless you’re talking about out-of-continuity tales like Justice League vs. Godzilla vs. Kong, we’re all still waiting for the League’s return.

DC Comics

DC is probably thinking “absence makes the heart grow fonder” in considering when to bring back the League, which makes sense. Marvel did a similar thing when the flagship series Fantastic Four ended its decades-long run in 2015. When the quartet relaunched in 2018, it was to much fanfare. But what will make this League relaunch stand out from so many in the past, aside from an unusually long break? We have some ideas on angles DC could take with League when the World’s Greatest Superheroes make their very welcome return. In fact, some of these ideas could inform James Gunn’s new DCU.

The Original 7 Justice Leaguers Have All Died and Come Back, Forming a Unique Bond Among the TeamDC Comics

The original Justice League was founded by seven members—Superman, Batman, Wonder Woman, Green Lantern (Hal Jordan), Flash (Barry Allen), Aquaman, and the Martian Manhunter. Many other members have come and gone over the years. Yet in a lot of ways, those original seven remain the most iconic version of the team. However, since Barry Allen died in Crisis on Infinite Earths, the founders have not headlined a book together. When Barry returned after 23 years in 2009’s Flash: Rebirth, the assumption was a big JLA reunion book was next. Then 2011’s New 52 reboot happened, and everyone met again for the very first time. However, the New 52 continuity has largely been undone, with much of the original history of the League restored. And we haven’t seen the Big Seven reunite as a team since. Now seems like an ideal time.

The Original Justice League: Death Becomes Them DC Comics

Besides being a nostalgic reunion, one thing bonds the original seven. They’ve all died and come back. And not just the standard “We thought they were dead, but it was a clone/they were in a coma/it was an alternate universe version.” They all actually died, went on to a form of an afterlife, and returned. Yes, even the very human Batman in the event series Final Crisis. Some were dead for many years, like Barry Allen and Hal Jordan. Others, like Wonder Woman, for just a few months.

With this detail in mind, the Leaguers all having gone to face the Grim Reaper and come out the other side could serve as the basis of an interesting team dynamic. Are they all functionally immortal now? Writer Grant Morrison played with the metaphor of the “Big Seven” Leaguers as Olympian Gods of the DCU in his ’90s JLA series. Could that interpretation be more literal than metaphorical? They certainly share a weird bond no other team has at DC. (However, we must note, that the X-Men at Marvel certainly do.) It’s fodder for an interesting reunion take for DC Comics’ most famous heroes.

It’s Time for Justice League Unlimited in the DC UniverseWarner Bros. Animation

Having said that, the original seven should just be a starting point for whatever DC does next. Because let’s face it, that’s a heavily white and male team for the year of our Lord Darkseid 2024. It’s time for the League to take a cue from their greatest media incarnation of the team, the Justice League Unlimited. It’s time to open the doors to every hero in the DCU. In the JLU animated series, the League became more than a team. It became almost a conglomerate for superheroes. It was a true society of superpowers, in a way their predecessors the Justice Society of America never were.

The comics have played with this notion before, like the excellent Justice League International run of the ‘80s. Yet never on the scale of the Justice League Unlimited cartoon show. The League expanding in this manner allows it to truly grow into something unique, something its rival the Avengers over at Marvel have never been. Maybe, the original seven founders realize they had to return from their respective graves to make the League something bigger than they ever dreamed of in the beginning. It could be something grander that goes beyond the definitions of what we now think of as a superhero team.

A Strong Comic Book Justice League Can Inform the Big Screen VersionDC Comics

Of course, comics are the primary source of inspiration for most live-action content. The New 52 League was the main inspiration for the DCEU version, from Cyborg as a founding member, to their first villain being from the planet Apokolips. So it would be fitting for whatever DC’s new Justice League becomes to inspire the eventual DCU version. We’ve believed for some time now that Gunn’s DCU would have an already existing Justice League in it, but if the comic book League is a gigantic group with many members and branches, we wouldn’t hate for that concept to make that transition to film and TV.

Whatever DC does when it inevitably relaunches the Justice League title, there should be top-notch creatives on it. Justice League should always be DC’s biggest title. It was in the Silver Age, again in the post-Crisis JLI era, and also in the ’90s Grant Morrison years. Like it or hate it, the New 52 Justice League carried the line, sales-wise, for a good long time. It was not an afterthought series for the publisher. It would be shocking if we don’t see a relaunch by 2025, the Justice League of America’s 65th anniversary. Here’s hoping it’s something that gets the readership excited, and springboard’s comics’ greatest superhero team into the future. They deserve a series that reflects their status as the world’s greatest superteam.

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SUPERMAN Casts Pruitt Taylor Vince as Pa Kent

Soon, the world will meet a new Clark Kent in Superman. (Formerly titled Superman: Legacy). DC Studios co-CEOs James Gunn and Peter Safran are rebooting the most famous superhero in the world as they transition the franchise from the DCEU to the DCU. Who will play the Man of Steel on the big screen this time around? What kind of story will we see him in? And who will bring it to life? We’re keeping track of all these answers and more. Here’s everything we know about Superman so far.

DC Comics/Frank Quitely

Title

The DCU’s first official movie (though not its first official release) is now titled simply Superman. Of course, the movie began its life as Superman: Legacy. It will kick off the film side of what James Gunn has called the franchise’s first chapter, “Gods and Monsters.” He has also called this movie “the true beginning” of the DCU.

Superman‘s Plot

While the film still has no official synopsis, Warner Bros. did provide a description of what we can expect from the story, which James Gunn says is not an origin tale.

Superman tells the story of Superman’s journey to reconcile his Kryptonian heritage with his human upbringing as Clark Kent of Smallville, Kansas. He is the embodiment of truth, justice and the American way, guided by human kindness in a world that sees kindness as old-fashioned.

Gunn announced the film with art from the cover of All-Star Superman by writer Grant Morrison and artist Frank Quitely. Whether or not that means the story is influenced, inspired by, or adapted from the 12-issue comic series in any way is unclear. What Gunn has said is the movie will focus on “an earlier part of Superman’s life,” where he is still old enough to already be working for the Daily Planet.

Superman‘s CastNetflix/DC Comics/Prime Video

David Corenswet will play Superman, while Rachel Brosnahan will play Lois Lane.

In addition, four more actors have joined the cast of Superman. Isabela Merced will play Hawkgirl, Edi Gathegi will play Mister Terrific, Nathan Fillion will play Green Lantern Guy Gardner, and Anthony Carrigan will play Metamorpho. María Gabriela de Faría will play the villain The Engineer in the movie. Also known as Angela Spica, the character has nanotechnology built into her body. Additionally, Sara Sampaio will play Eve Teschmacher, Skyler Gisondo will play Jimmy Olsen, and Wendell Pierce will play The Daily Planet boss Perry White. James Gunn has also confirmed that Nicholas Hoult will play Lex Luthor.

Pruitt Taylor Vince (Agents of S.H.I.E.L.D.) will play Jonathan Kent, a.k.a. Pa Kent.

Behind the Scenes 

James Gunn wrote the (definitely completed) script and is directing.

Superman‘s Release Date

Thanks to the efforts of our talented crew, who never lost faith during the longest strikes in Hollywood history, and who never let their foot off the pedal, continuing to barrel forward, creating the most amazing character and set designs I’ve seen in my entire career,… pic.twitter.com/ntnEbA2fC0

— James Gunn (@JamesGunn) November 11, 2023

Superman will soar into theaters faster than a speeding bullet on July 11, 2025.

Originally published on April 11, 2023.

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Kickstarter Adds Option for Late Pledges

We’ve all felt that terrible feeling. We see a super cool creation on social media, take a closer look, and alas, the item in question belongs to an already funded Kickstarter. If we’re lucky, the Kickstarter creator will sell more of our heart’s desire at a later date. But they very well may not. And will we even remember how badly we wanted it at that point? But Kickstarter is now rolling out a useful new feature that many have long requested–the option for late pledges. Our wallets may not cheer on the ability to pledge late to a Kickstarter, but our hearts are certainly with this latest option for pledges. Here’s what Kickstarter has to share about this new feature.

Kickstarter

A release shares more about Kickstarter’s new late pledges, and the feature is basically as written on the label. Kickstarter notes, “Late Pledges allows creators to continue collecting pledges after their campaign officially ends, giving creators the chance to attract more backers, get more support and make their projects even more successful… Creators can effortlessly continue to offer rewards, collect pledges, engage with their community, and attract support from new backers, while backers get another chance to support projects they believe in.”

While third-party tools have allowed creators to continue collecting pledges after their funding period, now everything can happen via Kickstarter’s interface. This should hopefully reduce headaches for creators and allow backers to continue to pledge more easily via a platform they are already on. Kickstarter notes that late pledges should help backers who discover a project after its funding period is closed and creators who get a boost of interest after their campaign. This sounds like a great plan to us. You can take a look at an example “late pledge” mode Kickstarter, here.

Kickstarter

Currently, late pledges are only available to a small group of Kickstarter creators. However, Kickstarter plans to roll out the new feature to all creators over the next few months. And now, you’ll never have to miss an enamel pin, cool board game, fun art collection, or neat bag ever again.

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Dialing FALLOUT Series Phone Number Reveals Horrific Vault-Tec Easter Egg

Oh, Vault-Tec. Longtime fans of Fallout will know there’s something more than a little nefarious about the corporation. But in Prime Video’s Fallout series, Vault-Tec’s true evil nature is revealed in more intense and dramatic ways than ever before. And now, if you call an Easter egg phone number from the Fallout series, you can get a jump scare taste of the horrors Vault-Tec holds. Does this Fallout phone number reveal something about the series’ plot? Does the phone number hint at upcoming news about Fallout season two? Or is it just a metaphorical taste of Vault-Tec’s terror? You decide.

Fallout‘s Easter Egg Phone Number Actually WorksPrime Video

In Fallout episode six, Cooper Howard (soon to be The Ghoul) has given a big thumbs-up to becoming the spokesperson for the Vault-Tec corporation. In a flashback, we see Howard filming an ad for Vault-Tec’s vaults, where he extolls their great virtues. “A vast and wonderful place, not made my god almighty but the working man,” Cooper Howard croons, “A veritable Camelot of the nuclear age.”

Of course, at the very end of this ad comes the sales pitch. Vault-Tec is a business, after all. “You can be a hero too by purchasing a residence in a Vault-tec Vault today.” Howard encourages, “Because if the worst should happen tomorrow, the world is gonna need Americans just like you to build a better day after.” To do that, Fallout‘s Vault-Tec wants you to call a phone number that flashes at the bottom of the screen.

Prime Video

We’re sure many audience members watching Cooper Howard’s performance at home rushed to dial into Vault-Tec. But it turns out that this Fallout phone number is actually an Easter egg, and you, too, can try your luck at securing a Vault.

And what is the Fallout phone number you ask? Well, you can give Vault-Tec a ring by dialing 213-25-Vault or 213-258-2858.

What Happens When You Call the Fallout Vault-Tec Phone Number?

Something sure does happen when you call this Fallout Easter egg phone number. In short, you’re treated to a jump scare. At the other end of Vault-Tec’s line is someone screaming—and not just a little. No, whoever is on the other end of this call is having a very bad day.

I tried calling Fallout‘s phone number a couple of times, just in case something different happened, and every time, I jumped a foot at the screaming. The howls go on for 18 seconds. So, be warned and dial accordingly.

Just to note, nothing different ever happened during any of the times I called this Fallout phone number.

You Can Also Text Fallout‘s Mystery NumberPrime Video

If you don’t want harrowing screams to fill your ears, you can also text the Fallout phone number instead of calling it. If you do, here’s the text message you receive from Fallout/Vault-Tec:

Thank you for texting Vault-Tec. The next available appointment is 33 weeks from now, please stand by!

That’s a little disquieting… until you realize both these messages are coming from the same place.

What Does Fallout‘s Easter Egg Phone Number Actually Mean? Prime Video

So, what does Fallout‘s Easter egg phone number actually mean? Well, ultimately, it probably just stands for the horrors that Vault-Tec hides behind its sheen of niceties. On the one hand, you might get your please and thank yous! On the other, terrifying screams. The duality of this Easter egg really does capture the way Fallout‘s Vault-Tec operates.

That said, whoever is screaming on the phone might be a Fallout character we’ll meet in the future or one we already know. Meanwhile, looking at the text, while “33 weeks” could just stand for Vault 33, it could also stand for some kind of Fallout series announcement happening in 33 weeks. (That’s sometime in November.)

As Vault-Tec’s text message notes, “Please stand by!”

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Steve Buscemi Joins WEDNESDAY Season 2 Cast

The supreme Addams family member is coming back to our TV screens in two snaps. Well, not quite that fast. But soon enough, Netflix’s Wednesday will return for season two and we cannot wait to hear Jenna Ortega’s snappy one-liners once again. At the end of season one, Wednesday and her friends defeat Laurel Gates. Meanwhile, Tyler is set to escape his very short time in custody. Nevermore Academy is understandably closed for the remainder of the semester as a result of all the drama. But what will happen when the school opens up once again?

Netflix

Most recently, Deadline reported that Steve Buscemi has joined the cast of Wednesday season two. The publication reveals, “Exact character details are being kept under wraps, but sources say Buscemi will play the new principal of Nevermore Academy.”

Here’s everything we know about Wednesday season two. 

Wednesday Season Two’s Plot 

Of course, we don’t know much about Wednesday season two’s plot at this time. It’s pretty clear that Wednesday, Enid, Xavier, and others will return back to Nevermore. We also know that someone is watching Wednesday and threatening to kill her, based on a text message she received while leaving Nevermore. There are still some secrets in Jericho to uncover, indeed. During the 2024 Emmys, Jenna Ortega revealed that the next season of Wednesday will pack in lots of horror, have more wonderful quotes, and that each episode will feel like its own movie. 

What I can say … [is] we’re definitely leaning into a little bit more horror,” the Scream actress teased. “It’s really, really exciting because all throughout the show, Wednesday does need a bit of an arc, she never really changes, and that’s the wonderful thing about her.”

Ortega previously stated this, saying the show will leave romance in the rearview mirror. As much as we love a good romance triangle, Wednesday is at her best when she’s investigating and verbally skewering people. 

Behind the Scenes

Jenna Ortega will join Tim Burton and Steve Stark, and others as an executive producer. Alfred Gough and Miles Millar will continue as co-showrunners. It remains to be seen who will direct its episodes. 

Wednesday Season Two’s Cast Vlad Cioplea/Netflix

Alongside Ortega, Emma Myers (Enid Sinclair), Joy Sunday (Bianca Barclay), Jamie McShane (Sheriff Galpin), Catherine Zeta-Jones (Morticia Addams), Luis Guzmán (Gomez Addams), Isaac Ordonez (Pugsley Addams), and Fred Armisen (Uncle Fester) will probably return. Uncle Fester is reportedly getting his own spinoff, so an episode this season could serve as a backdoor pilot for that show. 

It’s also probable that Hunter Doohan’s Tyler Galpin and Christina Ricci’s Laurel Gates will also return as antagonists alongside some larger threat. 

Deadline reports that Steve Buscemi has joined the cast as well, and “will play the new principal of Nevermore Academy.”

Last year’s TUDUM event revealed that we will meet a new Addams family member. Who could that be? We have a few ideas about which Addams family member could show up in Wednesday. 

Wednesday Season Two’s Release Date

Wednesday season two will tentatively start filming in April 2024, so we can probably expect a 2025 release date.

Originally published on January 16, 2024.

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