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Disney Sets Animated Sequel Release Dates, DRAGON BALL Z Cereal, And Other News Odds & Ends

From a slew of new Disney release dates and windows to cool apparel collections and more, here are some recent odds and ends from the news.

100 Thieves/Disney/General Mills

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Disney Sets Zooptopia 2 Release Date; Frozen 3, Toy Story 5 Release WindowsPlanned Joe Manganiello Dragonlance Live-Action Series Has Been CancelledCyberpunk 2077 Sequel Is in the WorksReese’s Puffs and Dragon Ball Z Team Up For Limited Edition Box CollectionPokémon and 100 Thieves Release New Apparel CollectionDC’s Peacemaker Sets Mortal Kombat 1 Arrival DateDisney | American Girl Princess Dolls Are Available NowTrue Detective: Night Country‘s First Episode Is Free To Stream on YouTubeBoxLunch’s Minnie Mouse Collection Is So Sweet Disney Sets Zooptopia 2 Release Date; Frozen 3 and Toy Story 5 Arriving in 2026Disney

Disney revealed a whirlwind of information in a recent earning’s call. But among the rest, they shared some exciting news for highly anticipated Disney animated sequels. Zootopia 2 will release on November 26, 2025. Meanwhile, Frozen 3 and Toy Story 5 will release in 2026.

Moana 2 was also announced.

Disney Returns to the Sea with MOANA 2

Planned Joe Manganiello Dragonlance Live-Action Series Has Been CancelledHBO/Wizards of the Coast

Unfortunately for lovers of the fantasy series Dragonlance, a planned live-action series helmed by notable nerd Joe Manganiello has been canceled. Manganiello shared with ComicBook.com, “Dragonlance is not a property [Wizards in the Coast] are interested in developing further, currently.” The publication shares that “Hasbro’s sale of the eOne studio and the poor performance of a Dragonlance D&D adventure and board game in 2022″ were come of the cancellation culprits here.

Manganiello further notes, “What I had planned for the first season was mind blowing. I just….I want to make [the Dragonlance show] because I want to see it and I just want to feel that excited and electric about something. The characters…like the casting, I have a look book with over 1,000 pages, but it’s not what you expect. The design concepts I had for the world, for the armor, for the swords….I had a fresh take on what the dragons were going to look like, it was going to be nothing like anyone has ever seen. And these beloved characters that have been read by…I think Tracy said there’s 35 million copies in circulation.” 

Perhaps someday, we’ll see the series come to life.

In the meantime, D&D fans have a lot to look forward to.

DUNGEONS & DRAGONS Comes to the Stage with THE TWENTY-SIDED TAVERN

Cyberpunk 2077 Sequel Is in the WorksCD Projekt Red

Meanwhile, there is good news for Cyberpunk 2077 fans. A follow-up to the game codenamed Project Orion is in the early stages of development at CD PROJEKT RED North America. And it sounds like its about to be a big focus for the studio. We can’t wait to see what’s in store.

If you haven’t yet, check out the trailer for Phantom Liberty.

CYBERPUNK 2077: PHANTOM LIBERTY Trailers Reveal Idris Elba, New Gameplay, and More

Reese’s Puffs and Dragon Ball Z Team Up For Limited Edition Box Collection Click To View Gallery General Mills General Mills General Mills General Mills General Mills General Mills General Mills General Mills

Who doesn’t love Reese’s Puffs? Who doesn’t love Dragon Ball Z? Who doesn’t love limited-edition Dragon Ball Z-themed boxes of Reese’s Puffs? These are all great questions. And the answer to them all is to get your hands on one of these cool anime-themed boxes of cereal. There are seven in total, and they celebrate the 40th anniversary of the franchise with cool art of its main characters. This Reese’s Puffs x Dragon Ball Z collection is available now nationwide. An exclusive eighth box (featuring, well, a dragon) is available only at Sam’s Club.

General Mills

Which cereal do you think should get an anime makeover next?

The Top 50 Cereals, Ranked

Pokémon and 100 Thieves Release New Apparel Collection100 Thieves

We love a good collection of nerdy apparel. And that’s why we’ll be first in line for this Pokémon x 100 Thieves collaboration. A waterproof Blastoise jacket? Brilliant. And who can say no to a Pikachu varsity jacket? Team Pokémon all the way. This collection will go live  on February 10, 2024 at 12pm PST on the 100 Thieves website.

Click To View Gallery 100 Thieves 100 Thieves 100 Thieves 100 Thieves 100 Thieves 100 Thieves

It’s much more reasonably priced than the Tiffany’s Pokémon collaboration.

$20,000 POKÉMON x Tiffany Jewelry Collab Reveals Very Shiny Pokémon

DC’s Peacemaker Sets Mortal Kombat 1 Arrival DateMortal Kombat

Fans of the DC character will be excited to hear that Peacemaker will land in Mortal Kombat 1 on February 28. But even more exciting, John Cena will reprise the role in both voice and appearance. That should tide us over until Peacemaker season two. At least, it will help a little.

Mortal Kombat

Speaking of Peacemaker, James Gunn is making progress on season two of the Max series.

PEACEMAKER Season 2 Is James Gunn’s Next Project After SUPERMAN

Disney | American Girl Princess Dolls Are Available NowAmerican Girl

American Girls have been icons of the doll world for generations. And now they’re teaming up with some even bigger super stars. That’s right, you can now buy American Girl versions of Ariel, Cinderella, and Tiana. It’s the greatest crossover the world has ever seen. These iconic dolls are available for purchase now.

Click To View Gallery American Girl American Girl American Girl American Girl American Girl American Girl American Girl American Girl American Girl

American Girl is also getting a Mattel movie.

After BARBIE, Mattel’s Cinematic Universe Is Ready with 14 Movies

True Detective: Night Country‘s First Episode Is Free To Stream on YouTubeMax

Maybe you’ve been hearing about True Detective: Night Country‘s brilliance. Maybe you’ve been hearing about it from us. But if you haven’t gotten to watch the Max show yet, the first episode is now available free on YouTube. You’re welcome!

We’re diving deep into True Detective: Night Country‘s secrets.

Could Ennis Be the Real Carcosa in TRUE DETECTIVE: NIGHT COUNTRY?

BoxLunch Minnie Mouse Collection Is So Sweet BoxLunch

Valentine’s Day may be over, but you can celebrate the sweetness of the day anytime. BoxLunch’s Minnie Mouse collection is full of pink treats and soft things to help chase away any winter or post-V-Day blues. We’re obsessed with its perfectly rosy Minnie Cardigan. If you aren’t ready to let go of hot Barbie summer’s pink, cozy Minnie winter is here.

For even more pink fun, check out this new book all about Barbie‘s fashions.

BARBIE: THE WORLD TOUR Book Will Reveal More of Margot Robbie’s Life-Size Barbie Looks

The post Disney Sets Animated Sequel Release Dates, DRAGON BALL Z Cereal, And Other News Odds & Ends appeared first on Nerdist.

Here’s Where X-MEN: THE ANIMATED SERIES Left Marvel’s Mutants

The trailer for X-Men ’97 has us seriously excited for the return of the ’90s versions of Marvel’s mutants. But where did the classic X-Men: The Animated Series series leave off, way back on September 20, 1997? Here’s a recap of the finale episode, which changed the status quo of mutants in the world, and especially at Xavier’s School for Gifted Youngsters.

Marvel“Previously, on X-Men…”

In the original X-Men: The Animated Series finale, “Graduation Day,” things changed drastically for the student of Charles Xavier. The final chapter begins at an important mutant/human relations summit at the United Nations. Known mutant hater Henry Peter Gyrich tries to make a case in front of the world that mutants are an existential threat to humanity, and must be rounded up and imprisoned, or worse. Xavier then appears, pleading the mutant race’s case in front of the global stage. It’s then that Gyrich activates a device that causes Xavier’s mutant telepathy to overload, sending psychic shockwaves into the crowd, and placing Xavier into a coma.

Marvel

Gyrich is taken into custody, but his plan worked. Xavier was exposed as a mutant to the world, and his existence hammers the point home to the world that mutants can look just like ordinary humans. This causes a wave of anti-mutant hysteria across the world, in a way never seen before. Mutants begin protesting, and eventually, some mutants take over human cities. They look to Magneto to unite them, and hopefully start a war against humanity where they will emerge as the truly superior species.

Marvel

Meanwhile, Xavier lies in the X-Mansion’s sickbay. Gyrich’s weapon is killing him rapidly, and there is nothing the X-Men can do to save him. They have their teammate Morph, a shapeshifter, appear as Xavier in front of the world, attempting to quell the violence. Nevertheless, the ruse is not enough to get the world’s mutants to stand down. Magneto, now in the mutant nation of Genosha, begins to lead an army of mutants. Among them is the Japanese mutant Sunfire, and the catlike Feral.

Marvel

It occurs to the X-Men that while human medicine can’t save Xavier’s life, advanced alien technology might be able to. They believe that by contacting Xavier’s great love Lilandra, Empress of the Shi’ar Empire, her alien technology could restore their beloved leader. But without Xavier’s telepathy, they have no way of reaching across thousands of light years. However, Xavier’s old friend Magneto might be able to save him. So Jean Grey, Cyclops, and Wolverine go to Genosha to convince him to save his old friend. Although at first reluctant, Magneto agrees to help.

Marvel

When Magneto arrives at the X-mansion, Xavier is near death. He uses his power to control magnetic waves to augment Xavier’s telepathy. He reaches out to Lilandra, and she arrives to take him to the Shi’ar Throneworld. She assures that while her species’ advanced technology can save his life, he will have to remain in their care. Xavier tearfully says farewell to each of his students. He gets especially emotional when saying goodbye to Jean, his first student, and Cyclops, whom he regards as a son. He leaves the Cyclops in charge, and takes off with Lilandra to deep space. They imply that Magneto chooses not to attack humanity in honor of his old friend, as we see him standing with the X-Men at the end of the episode. Xavier’s students officially graduate in this final episode, inheriting their mentor’s dream of a future where mutants and humans can coexist.

Marvel

In every trailer and image we’ve seen thus far for X-Men ’97, it appears that the new series picks up right from this point. We see the X-Men in the field with Scott Summers as leader, taking charge of the team. We also see Magneto taking over the reins of Xavier’s school, per his last will and testament. It remains a mystery as to whether the X-Men will tell the world that Xavier has recovered, or if they’ll try to sell everyone on the idea that he has died. And how will Mister Sinister try to take advantage of the situation? We’ll find out when X-Men ’97 premieres on Disney+ on March 20.

The post Here’s Where X-MEN: THE ANIMATED SERIES Left Marvel’s Mutants appeared first on Nerdist.

The Real Reason the TVA Needs Deadpool | Deadpool & Wolverine Theory

Welcome back, Marvel fans! The Merc with the Mouth is back and he’s finally ready to join Earth’s Mightiest Heroes in the MCU. Or kill them. We’re not quite sure yet. But Dan Casey is diving into the Fox-verse one last time to find out what exactly the TVA could really be up to in Deadpool & Wolverine on today’s Nerdist News!

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Make SNOW WHITE’s Cottage Your Home With This LEGO Set

Disney’s first-ever full-length animated film remains one of its most beloved movies. Now it’s ready to be one of your most beloved LEGO sets. The company’s newest collectible will let you move in with an iconic princess and her seven hi-ho’ing roommates thanks to the LEGO Disney Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs’ Cottage.

The LEGO Company

Bring to life a legendary home from Disney’s distant past with LEGO’s new 2228-piece set. Designed for ages 18 and up, the Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs’ Cottage is a colorful re-creation of the 1937 animated classic’s cozy forest abode. Inside the replica cottage fans will find plenty of notable touches from the film. There’s a bedroom with seven beds, a room with the dwarves’ pipe organ, a baking table, sink, and plenty of cupboards.

The LEGO Company

The set measures more than 13.5-inches long, 7.8-inches tall, and 7.8 inches wide. It also comes with plenty of characters to fill it. There are 10 minifigures in total: Snow White, each of the Seven Dwarfs, the handsome Prince, and the evil Queen, who comes with her red apple. Plenty of animal friends also join the musical fun. You can place some of those woodland creatures at the nearby wishing well included with the set. Or they can stop by the collection’s sleeping chamber where those under a spell can remain under glass.

The LEGO Company

Anyone can get their set early next month on March 4, either online or in stores. LEGO Insiders can get theirs even earlier if they want. They can order online starting March 1. The LEGO Disney Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs’ Cottage retails for $219.99.

Putting this set together will also be a fun way to prepare for Disney’s upcoming live-action Snow White remake starring Rachel Zegler. It comes to theaters next year on March 25, 2025. Until then avoid getting close to any sleeping chambers except for this mini LEGO one.

The post Make SNOW WHITE’s Cottage Your Home With This LEGO Set appeared first on Nerdist.

Josh Brolin Wrote Poems for DUNE Co-Stars Timothée Chalamet and Florence Pugh

Josh Brolin has always seemed like a great guy to work with. He’s not only immensely talented, he comes across as a fun person you’d like hanging out with on set. Plus, it turns out if you are in a movie with him he might also write a poem about you. Seriously. That’s what he did for a couple of his Dune: Part Two co-stars, Timothée Chalamet and Florence Pugh. Brolin composed works about each of them for a new book he co-wrote about the film.

Josh Brolin’s poem for Timothée Chalamet on the set of ‘DUNE 2’. pic.twitter.com/XlsWMh1scU

— DiscussingFilm (@DiscussingFilm) February 10, 2024

Insight Editions upcoming Dune: Exposures features stunning images take by both Part One and Two‘s Director of Photography, Greig Fraser. His pictures will take viewers behind-the-scenes to some of the most intimate moments on set between cast and crew. But that’s not all fans will find in the book. It also features original writing from House Atreides’ very own Warmaster, Gurney Halleck.

One way Brolin conveyed what it was like for him to work on the series was by crafting poems about two of his young co-stars. People provided an early glimpse at those odes in their special early look at the book.

Josh Brolin wrote a poem for Florence Pugh on the set of ‘DUNE 2’. pic.twitter.com/VzafTbmRR4

— DiscussingFilm (@DiscussingFilm) February 13, 2024

His short poem about Chalamet focuses on the star’s youth and how it made Brolin feel old in comparison. In his longer, more prose-like poem about Pugh he compares her to Marilyn Monroe and the Sun, as Brolin is unsure if she is becoming a royal like the one she plays in the film or if she was already a monarch in waiting.

Reminder, this large imposing man right here, the one who looks like an actual intergalactic Warmaster, the same guy who played Thanos, wrote those poems.

Warner Bros./Legendary

Damn. Josh Brolin contains multitudes. And a second damn for Chalamet and Pugh. They probably already get so many accolades its tiresome at this point, but it has still got to feel good having Josh freaking Brolin write a fawning paean about you. As it will for others who get poems from him in the book.

On the other hand, it’s going to be rough for any co-stars he didn’t write wax poetic about. At least they still got to work with Josh Brolin. That already seemed pretty great before we found out he’s also a writer.

Editor’s Note: Nerdist is a subsidiary of Legendary Digital Networks.

The post Josh Brolin Wrote Poems for DUNE Co-Stars Timothée Chalamet and Florence Pugh appeared first on Nerdist.

Anya Taylor-Joy Reportedly Has a Surprise DUNE: PART TWO Role

After a very long wait, Dune hit theaters in the fall of 2021 to both rave reviews and big box office. This was despite bowing on HBO Max at the same time as its theatrical debut. But Dune was really just Dune: Part One. The first film only covered the first half of Frank Herbert’s epic 1965 novel. Luckily, the rest of the story is on the way. Dune: Part Two was officially announced on October 26, 2021.

Universal Pictures

Most recently, Variety reports that Anya Taylor-Joy will play a mystery role in Dune: Part Two. So as not to spoil the movie, we won’t share which role exactly Taylor-Joy is said to play. But the publication reveals it can confirm that Anya Taylor-Joy plays a “a major character from the franchise” in Dune: Part Two. We guess we’ll have to tune in to know for sure.

Here’s everything else we know so far about Dune: Part Two.

TitleWarner Bros/Legendary

The official name of the movie is Dune: Part Two.

Dune: Part Two‘s Plot

The official plot synopsis from Warner Bros. and Legendary for Dune: Part Two reads as follows:

This follow-up film will explore the mythic journey of Paul Atreides as he unites with Chani and the Fremen while on a warpath of revenge against the conspirators who destroyed his family. Facing a choice between the love of his life and the fate of the known universe, he endeavors to prevent a terrible future only he can foresee.

If you’re a fan of Frank Herbert’s Dune, this all sounds like a pretty faithful adaptation of the second half of his novel. And unlike David Lynch’s 1984 version of Dune, this packed second half will now have time to breathe. And who knows? Maybe we’ll see elements of the later Dune novels pop up a wee bit early.

For now, we can enjoy Dune: Part Two‘s first trailer, which highlight a crucial book scene: Paul riding on a sandworm.

The second trailer for the film shows more of Paul and Chani and the Fremen’s fight.

The chief takeaway is that Dune: Part Two is both a love story and a war movie, and we can expect both parts to shine.

Dune: Part Two‘s Cast

Almost the entire original cast from Dune is back for Dune: Part Two. At least if their character survived, that is. This includes Timothée Chalamet as Paul Atreides, the “Kwisatz Haderach,” and Zendaya as his Fremen paramour Chani. Javier Bardem also returns as Chani’s father, Fremen leader Stilgar. Paul’s very pregnant mother Lady Jessica (Rebecca Ferguson) also returns for Dune: Part Two. Josh Brolin is back as Paul’s mentor Gurney Halleck, as is Stephen McKinley Henderson as Thufir Hawat, the loyal Mentat to House Atreides.

Warner Bros./Legendary Pictures

Stellan Skarsgård reprises his role as the sadistic Baron Harkonnen, as does Dave Bautista as the Baron’s loyal lackey and nephew Glossu Rabban. Charlotte Rampling’s character, the Bene Gesserit Reverend Mother, is also slated to return. New cast members include Florence Pugh (Princess Irulan) Austin Butler (Feyd Rautha), and Christopher Walken (Emperor Shadddam IV). They are joined by Léa Seydoux (Lady Margot) and Souheila Yacoub as the Fremen warrior Shishakli.

Warner Bros./Legendary Pictures

Of course, certain major characters died in the first film, and are not scheduled to appear in Dune: Part Two. These include Jason Momoa as Duncan Idaho and Oscar Isaac as Duke Leto Atreides. But there could be surprise flashbacks. So don’t count them all out just yet. We may yet see them on the sands of Arrakis. Most recently, Deadline reported Tim Blake Nelson joined the cast in an unknown role.

Click To View Gallery Behind the ScenesWarner Bros./Legendary Pictures

Just as he was for Dune, director Denis Villeneuve is back behind the camera for Dune: Part Two. Jon Spaihts wrote the script for the second chapter of the story. Hans Zimmer also returned to score the sequel.

Dune: Part Two‘s Release Date

Dune: Part Two hits theaters on March 1, 2024. It will release in IMAX 70 mm as well as in IMAX and normal theatrical formats.

Originally published on August 1, 2022.

Editor’s Note: Nerdist is a subsidiary of Legendary Digital Networks.

The post Anya Taylor-Joy Reportedly Has a Surprise DUNE: PART TWO Role appeared first on Nerdist.

Get Your First Inside Look at THE ART AND SOUL OF DUNE: PART TWO Book

Fear is the mind killer, but Dune fans have nothing to fear on March 1. That’s when the next chapter of Denis Villeneuve’s epic adaptation will arrive in theaters. It’s also when Insight Editions will launch its beautiful new behind-the-scenes companion book, The Art and Soul of Dune: Part Two. But you don’t even have to fear waiting to see what it has to offer. We have your exclusive first glimpse inside the book. We can also tell you how to get your spice-loving hands on some very special editions.

Insight Editions

The Art and Soul of Dune: Part Two ($54) comes from the film’s producer Tanya Lapointe. It shows how Villeneuve brought the second half of Frank Herbert’s seminal 1965 novel to the screen. Insight Editions says the book will provide fans “unparalleled insight into the project’s genesis – from its striking environmental designs to its intricate costume concepts and landmark digital effects.”

Insight Editions

The book, which includes a slipcover, also features exclusive interviews with both cast and crew, including Villeneuve himself, as well as production designer Patrice Vermette.

Insight Editions

This exclusive look at the book’s interior also shows why the visuals alone make it a must-have for Dune lovers. From art design to on-set photos, it captures the scope of the Warner Bros. and Legendary Pictures adaptation.

Insight Editions

It also reveals that despite the serious story and the harsh filming conditions, the cast found plenty of time to have fun on set.

Insight Editions

It’s always nice to have some fun before all-out war. We’ve always said that.

Insight Editions

Some very lucky fans will also be able to grab one of two incredible limited editions of the book. The first, The Art and Soul of Dune: Part Two Portfolio Edition, comes with a special slipcase and four, digitally-signed lithographic prints. Villeneuve and Lapointe personally selected each print and all of them features concept art from Dune: Part Two. Every Portfolio Edition also comes finished in a debossed and foil stamped Saifu cloth.

Insight Editions

The second limited edition version is The Art and Soul of Dune Artifact Edition. It’s debossed and foil stamped clamshell presentation box features a Fremen design created just for Dune: Part Two. This luxury edition also comes wrapped in Saifu cloth, but it’s what inside that will have this rare copy flowing off shelves.

Insight Editions

The Artifiact edition includes six digitally-signed lithographic art prints Villeneuve and Lapointe picked. Each shows concept art created for the film. This version also comes with a prop replica of a Fremen thumper for those want to read their books atop Shai-Hulud. That collector’s item, based on original VFX files used for the film, is unique to this edition. It comes wrapped “in a hand-cut piece of cloth that was taken from the Dune: Part Two costume stores, and has been cut from the same bolts of fabric that were used to make the film’s costumes.”

Insight Editions

Insight Editions only produced 750 copies of both the Portfolio and Artifact editions. Each comes individually numbered and signed by Villeneuve and Lapointe.

We know these special limited-edition prints won’t last long when they go on sale March 1. Don’t be afraid if you miss out on one, though. For one, fear is the mind killer. Plus the original edition will be worth its weight in spice.

Editor’s Note: Nerdist is a subsidiary of Legendary Digital Networks.

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Who Are the Fantastic Four? A Guide to the Marvel Characters

The Fantastic Four are known as “Marvel’s First Family” for a reason. Their success helped launch the Marvel Comics universe, leading to the current Marvel-dominated pop culture world we live in now. Created by Stan Lee and Jack Kirby in 1961, their concept centered on flawed, bickering “normal” people, telling stories about what would happen if they got fantastic powers. This concept changed comics forever. With their upcoming entrance into the MCU, here’s a handy guide to the Fantastic Four and their Marvel Comics history.

Marvel ComicsWho Are the Fantastic Four?Marvel Comics

Although the Fantastic Four has had various members over the years, the principals since 1961 have been Reed Richards (Mister Fantastic), Susan Storm (the Invisible Woman), her brother Johnny Storm (the Human Torch), and Benjamin J. Grimm (the Thing). Eventually, Reed and Sue marry, making Sue’s brother Johnny Reed’s brother-in-law. When Reed and Sue’s son Franklin is born, Ben becomes his godfather, therefore making the team a true nuclear family.

How Did the Fantastic Four Get Their Powers and What Are They?Marvel Comics

In their first origin story from Fantastic Four #1 1961, written by Stan Lee and drawn by Jack Kirby, the Fantastic Four received their amazing gifts when scientific genius Reed Richards convinced his friends to steal an experimental rocket to head into space. This was all in an effort to beat the Soviets to the moon. He took his best friend from college, pilot Ben Grimm, along with his girlfriend, Susan Storm. Her teenage brother, a hot rod racer named Johnny, tagged along.

Marvel Comics

While in space, cosmic rays bombarded their rocket ship. This triggered a cellular transformation, granting each of them incredible powers. When they crash landed back on Earth, they discovered they had become something more than human. They became adventurers and public heroes, operating out of the Baxter Building in New York. Soon, the media dubbed them the Fantastic Four. A wave of heroes would follow in their wake.

Reed Richards (Mister Fantastic)Marvel Comics

Mister Fantastic has the ability to stretch his limbs and contort his body into almost any shape. His stretching ability allows his skin to become malleable, and almost invulnerable. He’s mastered this ability to allow himself to change his appearance, and bulk up and become super strong. But Reed’s true power is his intellect. Mister Fantastic is easily the smartest person in the Marvel Universe, and that’s his greatest asset.

Susan Storm (Invisible Woman)Marvel Comics

Susan Storm (later Susan Richards), has the power to make herself and those around her invisible to the naked eye. At first, she thought she could only turn herself invisible. She can also create incredible invisible force fields, which can even protect from psychic attacks. She is likely the most powerful member of the group.

Johnny Storm (The Human Torch)Marvel Comics

Johnny Storm has the ability to ignite fire onto his body, without harming himself. He can also project intense heat. He can use the power of this heat to “flame on,” and propel himself through the air and fly. His heat levels can vaporize bullets or projectiles coming at him, and he can even absorb ambient heat around and “go nova.” He can precisely control his flame, even making it as tiny as a scalpel if need be.

Ben Grimm (The Thing)Marvel Comics

Unlike his teammates, Benjamin J. Grimm cannot go back and forth between his human form and his superpowered self. He’s forever trapped in the form of a bulked-up orange rock creature. As the Thing, Grimm has incredible super strength, enough to go toe-to-toe with the Hulk on a regular basis. But he’d trade it all to be a regular human being again.

Other Marvel Members of the Fantastic FourMarvel Comics

Other famous temporary members have included the robot H.E.R.B.I.E., She-Hulk, and Crystal and Medusa of the Inhumans. Black and Panther and Storm have been members, as has Ant-Man (Scott Lang) and Luke Cage. A “new” Fantastic Four was once formed in the ’90s, which featured Spider-Man, Ghost Rider, the Hulk, and Wolverine. For a time, the second Ms. Marvel, Sharon Ventura, was a member. Eventually, she became the She-Thing. Johnny Storm’s Skrull wife Lyja was also on the roster. Reed and Susan Richards’ own children, Franklin and Valeria, have also been part of the team despite their young age.

The Fantastic Four’s Major Marvel Comics VillainsMarvel Comics

The Fantastic Four has one of the finest rogues’ galleries in all of comics. Among their villains are the subterranean Mole Man, Annihilus, Lord of the Negative Zone, the Super Skrull, an alien shapeshifter with all their powers, the Puppet Master, and the alien despot Blastaar. Other major villains include Ronan the Accuser, Diablo, Namor the Sub-Mariner, the Frightful Four, Molecule Man, and the Dragon Man. But two Fantastic Four villains stand out above the rest.

Doctor DoomMarvel Comics

Victor Von Doom first appeared in Fantastic Four #5, and quickly became the team’s foremost nemesis. The ruler of the Eastern European country of Latveria, Doom was an old college frenemy of Reed Richards, and one of the only people alive who can match his intellect. But he forever blames Reed for a lab accident that scarred his face, forcing him to wear a metal mask. Doom has intense jealousy towards Reed, believing no one should rival his own genius. Doom masters not only science, but also sorcery. He’s since become not only the Fantastic Four’s most lethal nemesis, but also fought the Avengers, the X-Men, Spider-Man, and just about everyone in the Marvel Universe. Doom is perhaps the Fantastic Four’s greatest single contribution to the Marvel universe.

GalactusMarvel Comics

The Fantastic Four’s other most iconic villain is Galactus, the Devourer of Worlds. Not so much a person as a force of nature, Galactus first appeared in 1967’s Fantastic Four #48. He has existed since before this universe was born, and needs to consume the energy of planets to survive. He sends his herald, the Silver Surfer, to scout living planets to absorb. The Fantastic Four was able to stop him, but they’ve had to confront him time and time again. A version of Galactus that was a living cloud was in Rise of the Silver Surfer, but rumor has it that a proper version of the character will appear in Marvel Studios’ Fantastic Four.

A History of Fantastic Four Movies and TVMarvel

Marvel’s First Family has had a long and tangled history in Hollywood. They had TV cartoons in the ’60s, ’70s, ’90s, and ”00s, to varying degrees of success. Because of their popularity, their movie rights were optioned to different studios in different eras. An extremely low-budget film was made for a mere $1 million in 1994, as a way of producers maintaining the rights to the franchise. It was never released officially, although bootlegs of it have circulated for years. It would be another decade before a proper Fantastic Four film hit theaters.

Marvel/Twentieth Century Films

20th Century Studios ended up with the rights to the characters, and in the wake of the tremendous success of their X-Men films, they released a Fantastic Four film in 2005. Directed by Tim Story, it starred Ioan Gruffudd as Reed Richards, Jessica Alba as Sue Storm, Michael Chiklis as Ben Grimm, and Chris Evans as Johnny Storm. The film did decently at the box office and garnered a sequel two years later, Rise of the Silver Surfer. The second film did not do as well, killing prospects for a third. Eight years later, a reboot with a new cast came out, with Miles Teller as Reed, Kate Mara as Sue, Michael B. Jordan as Johnny, and Jamie Bell as Ben Grimm. The Josh Trank-directed film completely tanked at the box office, and critics hated it. But with Disney’s purchase of Fox, an MCU Fantastic Four was announced in 2020.

The MCU’s The Fantastic Four MovieMarvel StudiosDirector and Cast

The recently announced cast for The Fantastic Four includes Pedro Pascal as Reed Richards, Vanessa Kirby as Susan Storm, Joseph Quinn as Johnny Storm, and Ebon Moss-Bachrach as the Thing. WandaVision director Matt Shakman is helming the film, set for release in the summer of 2025.

What to Expect from the MCU Fantastic Four Movie

We don’t know what the actual plot of The Fantastic Four is just yet, but clues point to a period piece set in the team’s comic book heyday of the 1960s. Speculation runs rampant that the main villain will be Galactus, hoping to course correct after The Rise of the Silver Surfer depicted him into a giant cloud. We’ll find out for sure when The Fantastic Four hits theaters on July 25, 2025.

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Jesse Eisenberg and Riley Keough Are a Happy Bigfoot Family in SASQUATCH SUNSET Trailer

Smartphones haven’t exactly bolstered belief that mythical creatures actually exist. We all walk around with video cameras in our pockets now. Yet we can’t get any definitive evidence of a chupacabra or fairy. Same goes for North America’s most infamous legend, Bigfoot. No has videotaped hairy man-like apes wandering in the woods. That doesn’t mean you can’t still see footage of of them, though. The first trailer for Sasquatch Sunset, starring Riley Keough and Jesse Eisenberg under a whole lot of makeup, follows a happy Bigfoot family as it tries to survive in secret.

Yes, you have questions. First off, Sasquatch Sunset is a real movie. Some people have already seen it. Second, that honestly is Riley Keough and Jesse Eisenberg playing fantastical beasts in a story that appears to be part absurd comedy, part moving family drama, and part treatise on mankind’s dominance over the natural world.

That should make for a very unusual, memorable film, but it’s nice to see a sasquatch starring in their own movie rather than just some beef jerky commercials. This might be their final chance to do so, though. The film follows what might be the last remaining bigfoots in the world. Here’s the official Sasquatch Sunset synopsis from Bleecker Street:

In the misty forests of North America, a family of Sasquatches—possibly the last of their enigmatic kind— embark on an absurdist, epic, hilarious, and ultimately poignant journey over the course of one year. These shaggy and noble giants fight for survival as they find themselves on a collision course with the ever-changing world around them.

Bleecker Street

Sasquatch Sunset comes from the Zellner Brothers, David and Nathan, who shared directing duties. The script comes from David, while Nathan stars in the film, which also features Christophe Zajac-Denek. It wanders into select theaters on April 12 and everywhere a week later on April 19.

If you see it make sure you document your experience! No one will believe you saw a bigfoot otherwise.

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DUNGEONS & DRAGONS Comes to the Stage with THE TWENTY-SIDED TAVERN

Dungeons & Dragons keeps evolving across platforms. The beloved game keeps growing and changing. For its next leap, the tabletop game will head to the stage for the first-ever official Dungeons & Dragons theatrical production. The Twenty-Sided Tavern is an interactive theatrical adventure from Wizards of the Coast, Hasbro, Curious Hedgehog, and Showpath Entertainment. This production began as a D&D-style roleplaying game on the stage and has transformed into experiential entertainment.

Wizards of the Coast/Curious Hedgehog

The Twenty-Sided Tavern has had limited showings in Chicago, Pittsburg, and The Edinburgh Fringe festival. Experiences sold out. But now the show will be settled in at Stage 42 in New York City. Previews begin on April 19, and the show officially opens on May 5. Here’s how Wizards describes the experience:

At Dungeons & Dragons The Twenty-Sided Tavern, the audience is not just a viewer but the “fourth player,” influencing key decisions via Gamiotics, a browser-based software that allows you to vote on where the story will go — what characters appear, what experiences they explore, and more. With a cast of five actors and over 30 playable characters, audiences will experience an expansive fantasy world set in the Forgotten Realms, and face riddles, puzzles, combat, and more, to help shape the story. Laughter will flow like ale and with the audience in full control and exciting reveals around every corner, no two shows are alike! For those seeking a more daring experience, there are opportunities to join the action onstage and test your strength (or dexterity, or wisdom, or charisma) through a variety of rollicking games, including trivia, charades, and the ever-popular Fantasy Beer Pong. Featuring behind-the-scenes talent from popular theatrical shows such as Dimension 20, Marvel’s Rogers: The Musical, Beavis and Butthead and more, Dungeons & Dragons The Twenty-Sided Tavern is the game you know and the experience you’ll love but bigger and better than ever.

Wizards of the Coast/Curious Hedgehog

You can get exclusive presale tickets for this Dungeons & Dragons theatrical production beginning on February 29. General public ticket sales begin on May 4. And if you can’t make it to New York, don’t worry. Plans are in the works for a national tour.

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