Chris Hardwick's Blog, page 422

Chris Pine’s Latest Comments Spell Bad News for STAR TREK 4

For a while there it certainly seemed like we would never get a Star Trek 4. But in February of 2022, another Star Trek film was announced. Since then, though, we haven’t heard very much about the progress of the potential fourth movie. And updates, both good and bad, have been slight. Still, it looks like there’s still a possibility the film could happen, even though the most recent comments about it where not wholly positive. Here’s everything we know about the progress of a possible Star Trek 4 movie.

The Latest Updates on Star Trek 4Paramount Pictures

Most recently, Chris Pine spoke about Star Trek 4, but he didn’t really have much to say. When chatting to Comicbook.com, Pine was asked about any updates about the movie. Pine responded, “Not that I know of.” And when asked if Pine had potentially read any Star Trek 4 scripts, he responded very plainly with “No, of course not.”

While that doesn’t inspire much hope in the status of the movie, Lindsey Anderson Beer, who was initially involved in the writing of the Star Trek 4 script, noted to Collider in September of 2023 that the project was still moving forward. She shared, “It is, it’s still on the tracks. I love that project, and it was another one that I had to hop off of to direct this movie, and that was a hard thing to do. But I love that everybody involved with that project.”

The Initial News About Another Trek Movie

These updates come on the heels of the initial burst of news we received about Star Trek 4. According to Deadline‘s February 2022 article, negotiations were underway with the intent to bring back all of the mainstays in the rebooted franchise. That includes getting Chris Pine, Zachary Quinto, Zoe Saldana, Karl Urban, John Cho, and Simon Pegg to return for Star Trek 4. It was just one of the many major developments to arise out of the ViacomCBS Investor Day call in 2022. J.J. Abrams appeared on the call, confirming the reports that the fourth movie was a go.

WandaVision‘s Matt Shakman was originally on tap to direct Star Trek 4 but has since bowed out of the project. We will wait and see who may replace him. Josh Friedman and Cameron Squires will write the script. According to Deadline, their version is based on a script from Lindsey Beer and Geneva Robertson-Dworet. So, depending on how it goes, this film might have a lot of credited scribes.

Paramount Pictures

Naturally, other details about Star Trek 4 remained under wraps, including the plot. It’s been a turbulent last several years for Star Trek 4. Back in 2018, plans for another film with the cast stalled, reportedly after Chris Pine and Chris Hemsworth, who played George Kirk in the 2009 reboot, walked away over pay disputes. But Hemsworth later told Variety he wasn’t completely on board with the script.

Over the last several years, several people, from Noah Hawley to Quentin Tarantino, have tossed around ideas for a Star Trek film. (The Once Upon a Time in Hollywood writer-director really wanted to make the first R-rated Star Trek project.  Mark L. Smith, who wrote The Revenant, even wrote a draft.)

Still, though, many, including John Cho, held out hope that the fourth film in the rebooted franchise would eventually happen and that the Enterprise crew would get back together—save one very important cast member.

Anton Yelchin, who played Chekov in the first three films, sadly passed away in 2016. Abrams confirmed at the time that the role would not be recast. He told the Toronto Sun, “I would say there’s no replacing him. There’s no recasting. I can’t possibly imagine that, and I think Anton deserves better.” We’d imagine this sentiment remains in place. And we can’t wait to see how they pay tribute to the late actor.

Where We Stand with Star Trek 4 Right Now

For now, Paramount has removed Star Trek 4 from its release schedule. And that’s about all we know for sure. One way or the other, we’ll be keeping our eyes peeled for more Star Trek 4 developments and any glimpse of Chris Pine, Zachary Quinto, and the rest.

Originally published on June 8, 2022.

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The SCOTT PILGRIM Anime Shares Guest Stars, Trailers, and More

Scott Pilgrim vs. the World made an impression when it rocked into theaters in 2010. The story, adapted from Bryan Lee O’Malley’s comics about the titular Scott, came to life in stylized live-action with director Edgar Wright. Now, a Netflix series will make the story even more visually splashy with a Scott Pilgrim anime. Titled Scott Pilgrim Takes Off, the eight-episode series goes back to the world of Scott Pilgrim, Ramona Flowers, indie rock sounds, and lots of fighting. The animated show even brings back the entire cast of the cult classic movie. Get your best looks yet at Scott Pilgrim Takes Off with its opening sequence, trailers, and more. The show has even shared a line-up of its exciting guest stars.

The Scott Pilgrim Series Gets an Anime Opening Credits Sequence

It wouldn’t be an anime series without an excellent opening credits sequence. And we love seeing Scott Pilgrim Takes Off follow this tradition. The Scott Pilgrim series’ opening credits sequence features custom animation from Science SARU and “an official theme song “bloom” by Japanese rock band, Necry Talkie.” It’s already stuck in our heads, and gets us excited for what the Scott Pilgrim anime has in store.

Get an even better look at what’s to come with the series’ official trailers.

Scott Pilgrim Takes Off Shares Official Trailers

Doesn’t this trailer for the Scott Pilgrim anime make you feel like punching life in the face? In a good way, of course. We love seeing all these familiar characters a whole new way. Of course, it’s not all action. In its final trailer, Scott Pilgrim Takes Off promises us the love story of a generation. And we can really see it starting to take shape. Sparks are definitely flying, and love is “taking off.” Hey, sometimes one date is enough… especially in the world of anime.

Netflix partnered on Scott Pilgrim Takes Off with UCP. We don’t know yet how much of the anime will adapt what Scott Pilgrim vs. the World already did. However, Scott Pilgrim‘s creator Bryan Lee O’Malley is working as an executive producer and writer alongside BenDavid Grabinski, so we know it’s in good hands.

Lee O’Malley notes of the new anime series, “I don’t know who needs to hear this but… It’s not the books. I already wrote those and you can read them anytime. The show is its own new thing in many ways. Do NOT expect a word-for-word remake. Many fun surprises to come.” We do like the sound of that!

NetflixScott Pilgrim Takes Off‘s Official Synopsis and Cast Information

For now, Netflix has shared the following synopsis for the Scott Pilgrim anime series. It doesn’t really give us much new information, but it’s good to know the seven evil exes will still make their appearances. We certainly see them ready for battle in the latest trailer for this anime adaptation. Here’s what the streamer has to say about Scott Pilgrim Takes Off.

In SCOTT PILGRIM TAKES OFF, Scott Pilgrim meets the girl of his dreams, Ramona Flowers, and discovers he must defeat her seven evil exes in order to date her. But this time, things get even more complicated. Based on the graphic novels by Bryan Lee O’Malley, SCOTT PILGRIM TAKES OFF revisits and reimagines the beloved cult classic, taking Ramona Flowers, her evil exes, Scott, and his friends off on a mysterious new action-packed journey to find love.

Click To View Gallery Netflix Netflix Netflix Netflix Netflix Netflix Netflix Netflix Netflix

The Scott Pilgrim Takes Off cast includes Michael Cera, Mary Elizabeth Winstead, Satya Bhabha, Kieran Culkin, Chris Evans, Anna Kendrick, Brie Larson, Alison Pill, Aubrey Plaza, Brandon Routh, Jason Schwartzman, Johnny Simmons, Mark Webber, Mae Whitman, Julian Cihi, and Ellen Wong.

As far as guest stars go, the series boasts the likes of Will Forte, Finn Wolfhard, Al Yankovic, Kal Penn, Kirby, Nick Frost, Simon Pegg, Nelson Franklin, Bowen Yang, and many more.

Abel Gongora will direct the Scott Pilgrim anime, while Wright is one of the show’s executive producers. Here’s some of the best news: Anamanaguchi will provide original songs and work on the score with Joseph Trapanese.

Scott Pilgrim Takes Off arrived on Netflix on November 17, 2023.

Originally published on August 16, 2023.

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Chris Hemsworth in Talks with Marvel for THOR 5, Says Taika Waititi

There’s been a lot of chatter about the state of the MCU lately. And with that, as ever, murmurs about bringing back the original Avengers, the heroes that made the franchise so popular to begin with, have risen to the surface. Of course, the best-positioned OG Avenger to return to the MCU is Chris Hemsworth’s Thor. After all, technically, Thor hasn’t left the MCU at all. In Thor: Love and Thunder, a.k.a. Thor 4, Thor even started a whole new storyline with his adopted daughter. And, of course, there’s the question of coming full circle to let Thor and Loki finally reunite and see the sun shine on them once more. But one person who’s unlikely to be involved should Thor 5 become an MCU reality is Taika Waititi.

In recent interviews, Taika Waititi shared that he doesn’t see Thor 5 as a current possibility for him, given everything he has on his plate. But he did, reportedly reveal that Chris Hemsworth was in talks with Marvel for another Thor movie. Here’s what Waititi shared.

Marvel Studios

Speaking to Business Insider about Thor 5 and rumors of its development, Waititi offered, “I wouldn’t know if that’s accurate…I know that I won’t be involved. I’m going to concentrate on these other films that I’ve signed on for… So that’s six, seven years gone. I’d imagine another Thor would be a lot sooner than that. But I love Marvel, I love working with them. I love Chris [Hemsworth].”

Additionally, according to Inverse, “Waititi said that while he heard star Chris Hemsworth and Marvel are in talks about making a fifth Thor movie, Waititi ‘needed a break from that.’” That’s the first anyone has spoken concretely of Hemsworth returning for a Thor 5, so we’ll be interested to see how if we receive any more news on that front.

Marvel Studios

And while it seems unlikely Waititi would return for Thor 5, don’t count him out for another MCU movie. You never know if Thor 6 will become a reality. He notes to Business Insider about the idea of Marvel hiring another director for the fifth Thor movie, “I would never feel like they are cheating on me… We’re in an open relationship, and it’s like if they want to see other people, I’m happy for that. I’d still get back into bed with them one day.” Fair enough. For the moment, regardless of Waititi’s schedule, there’s no Thor 5 slated to happen. However should it happen without Waititi at the helm, we would feel curious to see where exactly it would go.

In addition to discussing Thor, Waititi also recently shared a little update about his Star Wars movie, noting that “It’s still marinating. I’ve been writing it.” Waititi also offered to ET, “At the moment, I’m still developing something with them. Like me, they have a lot of projects going on. I think they’re gonna push it until I finish these other projects. I’ve got about four other scripts that I’m trying to finish. My thing is, I want to take my time with that and get it right. I don’t want to rush this movie.”

Originally published on November 14, 2023.

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Aardman Gives Positive Update After Clay Shortage Concerns Emerge

A recent article in The Telegraph caused a big stir when it shared that beloved studio Aardman Animations might be in some sticky trouble. Aardman, of course, is known widely for its unique claymation stop-motion movies. The studio has created fan-favorite films such as Chicken Run and Wallace and Gromit in its iconic style. The piece shared that Aardman’s clay of choice, Newplast plasticine, however, won’t be around much longer. This very special clay is reinforced with nylon and doesn’t require additional steps such as glazing and firing to be functional. But it turns out, only one factory in the world was making Newplast plasticine, and it closed in March. And this, The Telegraph reports, means Aardman now faces a clay shortage and is running out of its favorite material.

Netflix/Aardman Animations

Aardman has been using Newplast plasticine to make its movies since the early 1970s. And the clay’s ability to hold its shape while remaining malleable, even under intense conditions, has been a great help in creating Aardman’s intricate masterpieces. But although it does seem like Aardman will have to find a new favorite substance from which to create its movies, we don’t yet need to ring any alarm bells about the studio running out of clay and not being able to make any more films.

Aardman took to Twitter to share an update about the Newplast clay situation after great fan concern.

pic.twitter.com/g9vAwEhyRQ

— Aardman (@aardman) November 20, 2023

In full, the note from Aardman Animations reads:

We are touched about recent concern over the future of our beloved clay creations, but wanted to reassure fans that there is absolutely no need to worry. We have high levels of existing stocks of modelling clay to service current and future productions and, much like Wallace in his workshop, we have been tinkering away behind the scenes for quite some time with plans in place to ensure a smooth transition to new stocks to continue to make our iconic productions.

The Telegraph did report that Aardman had purchased all remaining stock of Newplast clay from Lewis Newplast before the factory closed its doors. And it sounds like the stock will hold out to bring many future movies to life while the company transitions to a new material. So you can settle in and enjoy Chicken Run 2: The Dawn of the Nugget when it releases fear-free. Aardman and its claymations will live to mold another day.

The post Aardman Gives Positive Update After Clay Shortage Concerns Emerge appeared first on Nerdist.

Who Is AQUAMAN 2’s Main Villain? Black Manta’s Comic History and Powers, Explained

Even though the underwater hero Aquaman has been around in the DC Universe since 1941, he didn’t really have an arch-enemy of his own until the ‘60s. Although some fans cite Ocean Master as King Arthur of Atlantis’ main foe, we think that title goes to Black Manta. He’s had a few different origin stories over the decades, but his memorable armored look made him forever iconic. Before Yahya Abdul-Mateen’s return to the role in Aquaman and the Lost Kingdom, let’s take a deep dive (pun intended) into the history of Black Manta.

Black Manta’s DC Comics History

Black Manta first appeared as an antagonist for Arthur Curry in Aquaman #35 in 1967. He had no civilian name and his true appearance behind the black helmet and diving suit was a mystery. In that first story, Black Manta and his “Manta Men” attack Atlantis and, despite this being his first appearance, Aquaman describes him as “an old enemy.” In a foreshadowing of much darker things to come, Black Manta kidnaps Arthur Jr., Aquaman’s son. But Aquaman’s other arch-enemy Ocean Master rescues him.

DC Comics

Black Manta would continue to plague Aquaman throughout the ‘60s and ‘70s, first in his solo series, then in the anthology titles like Adventure Comics. What really elevated Black Manta to iconic status, however, were Saturday morning cartoons. He was a recurring bad guy in the ‘60s Superman/Aquaman Hour series, and was a part of the Legion of Doom in Challenge of the Super Friends in 1978. This made Black Manta known to millions of kids who never read a single comic book.

It’s quite possible that Black Manta was part of a long line of DC heroes created for outside media that just debuted in comics first. Both Batgirl and the second Aqualad were part of this group. The Aquaman issue introducing him had a cover date of August 1967. Black Manta then appeared in the first episode of the Superman/Aquaman Adventure Hour one month later in September 1967. It’s likely that they created him for the cartoon, the folks at DC heard about him, and so he debuted in the comics first.

Black Manta’s Many DC Comics Origins

For a long time, Black Manta was just a cool name and a cooler costume. He had almost no backstory. He finally took off his helmet in a 1977 story, revealing that he was an African-American man. He explained how he was trying to establish an underwater colony where his people would live freely without the persecution of the surface world. (How he planned for them all to breathe underwater remains a mystery.) This continued a problematic comic book trope, of African-American characters needing a codename with the word “black” in it. Several characters were a part of this trope, like Black Goliath, Black Lightning, and more. But Manta’s backstory reveal gave him more actual motivation than before.

Black Manta’s First Aquaman Origin StoryDC Comics

Manta would not get his first origin story until 1992, in Aquaman vol. 4 #6. In a flashback, they showed the boy who would grow up to be Black Manta growing up in Maryland, somewhere near the Chesapeake Bay. One unfortunate day, he was playing near the ocean when a group of pirates kidnapped him. They forced him to become their unwilling servant aboard their ship.

He spent years abused and tortured by these pirates, forced to do their bidding. One day, he saw Aquaman swimming through the ocean with dolphins, and signaled him for a rescue. But Aquaman didn’t see or hear him. But the young boy felt he ignored him, and it began a lifelong grudge. Once the boy was able to escape, he became a vicious pirate himself. And he now harbored a deep hatred for the King of the Seven Seas.

Black Manta’s Batman-Related Origin Story

Years later, a new origin story emerged, one that tied Manta to Batman’s home city. They revealed that the young child was diagnosed with autism and, because of caretakers who didn’t understand his condition, was committed to Arkham Asylum. While staying at Arkham, doctors there subjected him to experimental treatments designed to cure him. But they ended up having the opposite effect, making him grow up into the extremely violent criminal he became. Around this time, they finally revealed Manta’s real name—David Hyde. They also revealed that his son, Jackson Hyde, had become the superhero Aqualad II, spitting in the face of his father’s hatred.

The New 52 Black Manta BackstoryDC Comics

The New 52 reboot of 2011 was controversial, but Geoff Johns’s Aquaman run was celebrated. And here, Black Manta got yet another new origin story. In this iteration, Black Manta was a mercenary who was paid to obtain a sample of Arthur Curry’s blood to see if he was really from Atlantis. During the attack, Arthur’s father Thomas Curry dies of a heart attack. Blaming Manta and seeking vengeance, Arthur attacked the vessel that Black Manta was on, but accidentally killed his father instead. Blaming each other for losing their respective fathers, a rivalry began that would go on forever. Much of the cinematic Aquaman’s backstory drew inspiration from the New 52 run.

Black Manta Kills Aquaman’s Son, Arthur Jr., a.k.a “Aquababy”DC Comics

While many villains threaten the lives of their respective enemy’s loved ones, few ever go through with it. The Joker killing Robin notwithstanding. But in 1977, Black Manta did the unthinkable in DC Comics and murdered Aquaman’s child Arthur Jr., also known as Aquababy. As revenge for his string of defeats at the hands of the Sea King, Black Manta kidnaps Arthur Jr. and places the water-breathing child in a bubble, slowly filling it with air and suffocating him.

Although Aquaman defeats Manta, he’s too late to save his son, and Arthur Jr. suffocates to death. It’s a horrible fate and a truly dark story for a Bronze Age-era comic. Our guess is someone at DC Editorial really didn’t care for Aquababy. The “Death of a Prince” storyline had huge ramifications for Aquaman as a character, and ultimately led to the end of his marriage to Queen Mera, who blamed her husband for their child’s death.

Black Manta’s PowersDC Comics

Black Manta has no innate powers to speak of, although he is quite adept at various forms of combat. However, his suit packs quite a wallop. His high-tech diving suit allows him to have not only an indefinite oxygen supply underwater, but also protects him from the crushing depths and freezing cold of the ocean. The suit also allows Black Manta to increase his own strength and gives him incredible speed underwater. It’s resistant to bullets and plasma weapons, and this allows him to go toe to toe with Aquaman, despite just having average human strength. It can fire a variety of deadly plasma blasts as well.

Black Manta’s Role in Aquaman and the Lost Kingdom

In the first Aquaman movie, Yahya Abdul-Mateen portrayed the Black Manta. The origin story in the 2018 James Wan film sticks pretty close to the DC Comics New 52 version. He’s a high-tech pirate alongside his father, and when his dad dies after an incident involving Aquaman, he vows revenge. He attacks Arthur Curry in Italy, but Arthur ultimately defeats him. But as the post-credits scene shows us, Black Manta definitely did not die. All signs point to Manta trying to exact his revenge on the King of Atlantis in Aquaman and the Lost Kingdom.

The Black Manta Spin-off The Trench

DC Comics

Warner Bros. planned a spin-off film for Black Manta called The Trench. We saw Aquaman face off against the monsters who live in the undersea trench in the 2018 film. James Wan revealed that The Trench was secretly a stealth solo Black Manta movie. When Warner Bros. canceled those plans, ideas for the spin-off found their way into the sequel Aquaman and the Lost Kingdom.

Black Trident in Aquaman 2

In the trailer, we see that Black Manta is wielding the Black Trident, a relic from Atlantis from before King Atlan’s time. Chances are we are going to see Trident vs. Trident in the upcoming sequel. This would put Manta on equal footing with his famous nemesis. We’ll find out when Aquaman and the Lost Kingdom hits theaters on December 22, 2023.

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Knock Thrice’s Fantasy Cardigans Will Make Your Next D&D Game Cozy and Stylish

Are you a noble paladin wielding your sword with might and honor? Perhaps you’re a wily witch, brewing potions from the gifts of the harvest. Or maybe, just maybe, you’re a cottage core bard who just wants to sing and nap in peace. Whatever your favorite fantasy vision for yourself, Knock Thrice wants to outfit you in cozy cardigans perfect for any quest, Dungeons & Dragons game, or afternoon by the fire immersed in your favorite book. Let’s take a look at these gorgeous cardigans that will make you feel fantastical, stylish, and cozy. Knock Thrice’s store will open up again on Monday, November 20, at 5 pm ET/2 pm PT, so the time is now to prepare for our (shopping) adventure.

Knock Thrice

(Full and joyous disclaimer: I own two out three of these cardigans, and I wear them literally every day. They are high quality, warm, and gorgeous. Okay. On we go!)

Knight in Cozy Armor Cardigan

Brave knights need comfortable clothes too, but they still want to look good. Get the best of all worlds as you defend the realm and add a layer to your wardrobe that does not ruin the look. Knock Thrice’s “Knight in Cozy Armor” cardigans come in two varieties. “Forget-me-not Knight” (blue), which resembles a more traditional armored look, and “The Raven Knight” (black), just in case you’re feeling more like you’re a rogue knight.

Knock Thrice

The description for this cardigan shares, “The unique embroidered design features shoulder and back chainmail, ‘laced’ arm bracers, custom moon buttons, and a gilded sword, still dripping red from your recent combat.” When I say these details are incredible, I mean it. You truly feel like you’ve donned your armor. Foes beware!

And just a pro tip, more Knights are coming to join the battalion. A Lavender Knight and a green Ivy Knight are on the way. It’s also worth mentioning that every one of these fantasy cardigans has the most gorgeous blue and silver buttons with a moonscape on them.

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The Knight in Cozy armor cardigans each cost $125.

Forest Forager Fantasy Cardigan

We can’t all be knights. Every good party needs a balance of temperaments and skills. Some ride off to battle with dripping swords, while others go to the forest to wander and forage for herbs and natural remedies. We would be naught without them! Knock Thrice shares that this fantasy cardigan is “For those who crave the scent of sweet, damp moss and wish to wander wistfully in the dappled light of towering trees.”

Knock Thrice

The gorgeous green of the Forest Forager cardigan is embroidered with so many beautiful surprises. They include mushrooms, acorns, leaves, and even a ladybug friend. The Forest Forager cardigan also comes in both full-length and cropped versions, allowing you some variety. It’s the perfect fantasy cardigan for a gentle soul.

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The Forest Forager cardigan costs $125 for full length and $115 for the cropped version.

Harvest Witch Fantasy Cardigan

The harvest is a magical time, full of trees turning to red and gold, bonfires, and shadows growing long. This Harvest Witch cardigan captures all the magic of mid-October and wraps it around you all year round. The details and colors of this fantasy cardigan are breathtaking. Knock Thrice shares, “Swaddle yourself in soft tones of pumpkin, olive, and mulberry. Hang your copper kettle by above fire-warmed hearth, sip your tea or soup or potion, and watch the dying orange light of an Autumn afternoon fade into dusky, wintery purple.” And that is 100% what wearing this cardigan feels like.

Knock Thrice

Like the other cardigans above, the embroidered details here are astounding. My favorite is the scythe on the right arm, although the pumpkin on the left is pretty incredible, too. And we cannot forget the adorable tea bag pocket that lives on the front of the cardigan. Fashion and function. Truly, the real magic of the universe is pockets. This cardigan, too, comes in regular and cropped versions, each gorgeous in its own right. So slip this cardigan on and whisper spells into the night.

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The Harvest Witch cardigan costs $125 for full length and $115 for the cropped version.

Other Knock Thrice Creations

In addition to these fantasy cardigans, Knock Thrice also has an Over the Garden Wall collection, which is just incredible.

The store also sells beautiful embroidered hats and fabulous mugs, you know, in case you need another one for your collection.

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To keep up with all the latest creations, make sure to follow Knock Thrice on Instagram.

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FROZEN 4 In the Works, COYOTE VS. ACME Uncanceled, and More News Odds & Ends

It’s always a wild ride in the world of entertainment. This week, Nerdist had the pleasure of speaking to The Marvels‘ Iman Vellani, we saw some potential Fantastic Four casting news, and we got our first good look at Madame Web. But that’s not all that took place.

Lionsgate/Hidden Valley Ranch/Central Perk Coffeehouse

Here are some of our favorite pop-culture news odds & ends from this week.

This Week’s Odds & Ends in NewsJump to:Harley Quinn Renewed for Season Five on MaxYes, Frozen 4 Is in the Works Even Though Frozen 3 Has Not Released YetCompleted Coyote vs. Acme Movie Canceled and then Uncanceled By Warner Bros.It’s Ranch Time: Ranch Popcorn Arrives at AMC, and a Double-Headed Ranch Bottle Can Soon Be YoursWelcome to Wrexham Renewed for Season ThreeBlumhouse’s Imaginary Brings Us a Killer Teddy Bear Jurassic Park Classic Games Collection Will Launch on DigitalCritical Role Prequel Novel for Bells Hells Campaign to Release in 2024Dr Pepper Reveals Spicy New Flavor, Dr Pepper Hot TakeCentral Perk Coffeehouse, a Modern Take on Friends Location, Now Open in BostonHarley Quinn Renewed for Season Five on MaxMax

A show renewal, especially on Max, is cause for great celebration these days. And we’re definitely cheering on Harley Quinn, which will receive a season five on Max. Five seasons is no easy feat for any series, but this fabulously queer show definitely deserves them. As a release from Max shares, Harley Quinn is full of “hilarious, heartwarming, and deranged stories with our lovable group of DC misfits.”

Harley Quinn is also heading to the Joker sequel, Folie á Deux

Lady Gaga Reveals Harley Quinn First Look From JOKER: FOLIE à DEUX

Yes, Frozen 4 Is in the Works Even Though Frozen 3 Has Not Released YetDisney

“Let it go, let it go!” These lyrics made Frozen‘s Elsa famous. But it seems like Disney is certainly not ready to let go of Frozen, Anna, or Elsa. Although Frozen 3 has not even begun to become a reality, it turns out Frozen 4 is already in the works. Per Variety, Disney’s CEO recently shared, “Frozen 3 is in the works, and there might be a Frozen 4 in the works too… [Director] Jenn Lee, who created the original Frozen and Frozen 2, is hard at work with her team at Disney animation on not one but actually two stories.”

Remember when Disney sequels went direct to VHS?

In the meantime, check out our review of Disney’s latest animated film.

WISH Will Have You Wishing a Great Idea Got a Much Better Movie

Completed Coyote vs. Acme Movie Canceled and then Uncanceled By Warner Bros. DiscoveryWB Kids

It’s a messy time in the entertainment industry. Fully completed movies and series are being unceremoniously canceled for tax break purposes, and that should be illegal, literally. The latest finished movie to almost get canceled is Coyote vs. Acme, starring Will Forte, John Cena, and Lana Condor. Warner Bros. Discovery even announced its cancellation but was met with great public outcry from fans and creators alike. Per The Hollywood Reporter, the studio has since reversed course and will now allow director Dave Green to try to sell the movie instead. Potential buyers include Amazon. It’s still not a great situation, but it’s better.

Unfortunately, more and more streamers are canceling finished products. But happily, some of them, like The Spiderwick Chronicles, are getting saved.

Roku Saves THE SPIDERWICK CHRONICLES, Disney+’s Canceled but Completed Series

It’s Ranch Time: Ranch Popcorn Arrives at AMC, and a Double-Headed Ranch Bottle Can Soon Be Yours

‘Tis the season, it turns out, for ranch. First up, Hidden Valley Ranch is bringing ranch dressing to AMC theaters with a brand-new Hidden Valley Ranch gourmet popcorn flavor. A release shares this movie theater treat will offer the “right balance of tangy Hidden Valley Ranch seasoning with AMC’s perfectly popped popcorn.” Yum! Hidden Valley Ranch movie theater popcorn is now available at select AMC theaters.

AMC

Additionally, for the top ranch aficionados, Hidden Valley Ranch has created “Double Ranch, the ranchiest ranch yet. Double the herbs. Double the spices. Double the flavor. Double the bottles.” You have our attention.

Hidden Valley Ranch

This double-headed Ranch bottle will “be available nationwide through a Snapchat lens on Saturday, November 18, while supplies last. The custom Snapchat lens will recognize any “X” that users come across, prompting the Double Ranch bottle to appear on the screen and providing a Swipe Up feature to purchase.” 222 bottles of this double-headed ranch monster will be available.

Hidden Valley Ranch

This isn’t the weirdest ranch has gotten; it once turned into a diamond ring.

Hidden Valley’s Diamond Ring Made From Ranch Sold for $12,500

Welcome to Wrexham Renewed for Season ThreeFX

Our favorite feel-good docuseries will return once again. Welcome to Wrexham has been renewed for a third season by FX, and it will arrive in spring 2024. That means Rob McElhenney, Ryan Reynolds, and the Wrexham AFC team will all be back for more football fun before we know it. We expect season three will make us cry and then laugh, and we can’t wait. In the meantime, we’ll enjoy watching back through Welcome to Wrexham‘s now-completed first couple of seasons.

If you haven’t yet, check out all the fun of Welcome to Wrexham season two.

WELCOME TO WREXHAM Returns to the Pitch in Season 2 Trailer

Blumhouse’s Imaginary Brings Us a Killer Teddy Bear

Obviously, one thing missing from our lives is a new horror movie about a killer teddy bear. So thank god that Blumhouse’s Imaginary trailer is here to bring us what we need. This movie offers a dark take on the notion of imaginary friends.

Lionsgate

You don’t want to cross these angry spirits, and you certainly don’t want to ever leave them behind. Or else, they’ll possess stuffed animals and come for you. Better watch out for how you treat your teddy bears.

We don’t know how this movie will turn out yet, but these are our favorite final scenes from horror movies.

The Best Final Scenes in Horror Movie History

Jurassic Park Classic Games Collection Will Launch on Digital

Want to relive the magic of a whole trove of classing Jurassic Park video games? Well, you’re in luck because a collection of them is launching on digital on November 22.

Nintendo

A release shares, “The 8-and 16-bit era of Jurassic Park games has returned. This nostalgic release includes a lineup of classic titles and adds new features, including save states for each game, new in-game maps, and various quality-of-life fixes that bring these titles into the modern era of gaming.”

Nintendo

The Jurassic Park Classic Games Collection includes seven games that were originally released across NES, Game Boy, SNES, and the SEGA Genesis:

Jurassic Park (NES)Jurassic Park (SNES)Jurassic Park (Game Boy)Jurassic Park (Genesis)Jurassic Park: The Chaos Continues (SNES)Jurassic Park: The Chaos Continues (Game Boy)Jurassic Park: Rampage Edition (Genesis)

You can pre-order the collection now.

Nintendo

Did you know dinosaurs may have been cuddly?

Dinosaurs Might Have Actually Looked More Cuddly Than We Think

Critical Role Prequel Novel for Bells Hells Campaign to Release in 2024Random House Worlds

Critical Role‘s current campaign Bells Hells is getting a prequel novel titled Critical Role: Bells Hells—What Doesn’t Break. This new book will “[chronicle] the unexplored years before fan-favorite character Laudna joins up with the crew of Bells Hells, following her departure from Whitestone and her solo adventures on the road toward Jrusar.” Sounds like it will be an epic adventure! This Critical Role novel will be written by Cassandra Khaw and release on July 24, 2024.

Experience more Bells Hells with this animated opening sequence from the campaign.

Bells Hells Get Animated in New CRITICAL ROLE Animated Intro

Dr Pepper Reveals Spicy New Flavor Dr Pepper Hot TakeDr Pepper

Get ready for a spicy new flavor of Dr Pepper, Dr Pepper Hot Take. A release shares, “Dr Pepper has harnessed the bold and blistering flavor of spicy peppers to create the limited-edition flavor. It’s the iconic Dr Pepper taste fans know and love, but with a zesty, fiery kick.” That’s hot. The flavor is available exclusively through “Pepper Perks” and can either be won in a game of scratch-and-win or purchased for 3,000 points. We must admit, we feel very curious about it.

You think that’s hot? Check out this IRL lightsaber.

World’s First IRL STAR WARS Protosaber Is Insanely Dangerous

Central Perk Coffeehouse, a Modern Take on Friends Location, Now Open in BostonCentral Perk Coffeehouse

Our favorite Friends location is coming to life with a modern twist. Central Perk Coffeehouse opened in Boston on November 14. According to People, the “2,600-square-foot venue, a collaboration between Warner Bros. Discovery Global Themed Entertainment and CenPer, is filled with Friends-inspired memorabilia and subtle nods to the show’s characters and plot lines. And of course, it features an oversized orange couch. There are also coffee cup sleeves featuring iconic quotes from each of the six Friends.”

Central Perk Coffeehouse will be there for you, after the long-awaited, "Friends"-inspired shop officially opened on Newbury Street Tuesday ☕️ @masslivenews pic.twitter.com/78lfKLzoqU

— David Cifarelli (@DavidCifarelli) November 14, 2023

This location will be permanent. On its opening day, the cafe honored the late Matthew Perry.

We’ll never forget Chandler Bing or his impact on the TV world.

In Memory of Matthew Perry: When Chandler Bing Ruled the TV World

The post FROZEN 4 In the Works, COYOTE VS. ACME Uncanceled, and More News Odds & Ends appeared first on Nerdist.

Holidays at Walt Disney World Bring Joy in the Form of THE NIGHTMARE BEFORE CHRISTMAS and THE MUPPETS

Recently, I was talking to someone about the magic of theme parks—specifically about how to share that magic with a cynical adult. He said it’s not about pointing out a ride’s elaborate facade or an incredible feat of engineering. I started to protest, “But these are all important parts of making a theme park special!” No, my friend insisted, it’s about the people. It’s about how those of us visiting a theme park react to and share experiences together and make memories. Whether you’re with a group or alone, it’s about how you interact with elements of the park, characters in the park, and the impressions all of it leaves behind.

Disney Parks

This was at the front of my mind when Walt Disney World hosted Nerdist to experience holidays at the parks. I observed adults giggling in delight as fake snow “fell” from the sky. People sang along to a The Nightmare Before Christmas show with exuberance. Puppets from Animal Kingdom’s Merry Menagerie turned a group of grown-ups into excited kids. In moments loud and quiet, I noticed people making memories all around me. My friend was right. That’s what theme parks are about.

Of course, it’s easier to tap into wells of emotion during the holidays. This time of year tends to soften our hearts and awaken a childlike joy. As Walt Disney World ambassador Raevon Redding put it, “I’m normally happy nine times out of 10, so this time of year I’m really happy everyone’s happy—we’re all in unison. And I’m not all the way Buddy the Elf… but I’m close.”

It was hard not to feel a lightness of heart upon seeing the towering Christmas tree upon entering Magic Kingdom or getting up close and personal with Lucille the seal from the Merry Menagerie. That sweet puppet had so much life and personality I believed she was real. Festivities extend beyond the theme park gates too. Walking the trail of themed trees at Disney Springs buoyed my spirit on a blazing Florida day (the Haunted Mansion tree is everything). The smell of gingerbread fills a handful of Disney hotel lobbies thanks to giant confectionary constructions, including the Grand Floridian.

Inside the parks, two different parties fill the calendar for the holiday season: Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party and Disney Jollywood Nights. The former is a long-time family favorite, the latter is a brand-new event geared towards adults. I attended Jollywood Nights on its first night and while the event has room to grow and improve, the two shows were stand-outs.

Nerdist

First up, What’s This? Tim Burton’s The Nightmare Before Christmas Sing-Along happens four times a night at the Hyperion Theatre. The show takes two performers on a dreamlike adventure through some of the movie’s best songs using creative props and storytelling. This delightful show really leans into the charm of curiosity and wonder. The more you sing along when the show invites it, the more fun you’ll have. And the best part: Jack Skellington and Oogie Boogie both appear. The life-size Jack Skellington puppet normally appears at Mickey’s Not So Scary Halloween party. I was so excited to see the impeccable puppet get a holiday outing. It’s like seeing Jack from the film come to life, which means it’s kind of mind-blowing.

Nerdist

Oogie Boogie isn’t as intricate as Jack just because of the nature of the character. Jack Skellington is a spindly skeleton-like being; Oogie Boogie is more of a shapeless burlap sack. Still, the character moves on stage exactly like he does in stop-motion in the animated movie. It’s uncanny. The Sing-Along uses Oogie Boogie’s unraveling to excellent effect, too. I walked away from the show with a need to watch The Nightmare Before Christmas as soon as possible.

The second show, Disney Holidays in Hollywood, also takes place four times an evening during Disney Jollywood Nights. The Theater of the Stars performance is an old school variety-style show celebrating the holidays. Kermit the Frog and Miss Piggy cohost the event. And look, The Muppets are criminally underutilized in Disney Parks so I’m overjoyed to see them starring in this show. Miss Piggy remains the best diva ever, and her dialogue in this performance cements it. Kermit keeps it real, while Tiana, Minnie Mouse, and Mickey Mouse bring holiday cheer.

Nerdist

But the part of the show that caught me and my feelings unexpectedly was Belle. Remember Beauty and the Beast: The Enchanted Christmas? The 1997 direct-to-video holiday film takes place within Beauty and the Beast and is a fun enough movie centered on a kind of bizarre plot about the villainous organ called Forte. But it does have a showstopper of a song: “As Long As There’s Christmas.” Belle sings this live during Disney Holidays in Hollywood. Maybe it was the late (for me) hour or maybe it’s because Belle is one of my favorite characters, but something about hearing this deep cut of a song and its earnest lyrics wrapped around my heart. It brought up warm and fuzzy memories of holidays past and hope for holidays to come.

Blowers above the theater sent snow falling onto the audience as the show ended, eliciting laughs and shrieks. The snow was soapy and manufactured. The feelings were not.

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Netflix’s STRANGER THINGS Prequel Play Reveals On-Stage Demogorgon and Henry Creel

We’ve always known that the Stranger Things universe would expand in some way. In the next couple of years, we will get the show’s fifth and final season. But Netflix will certainly want to continue the universe of its biggest hit. And while we have our own Stranger Things spinoff ideas, including a ‘90s series, this isn’t quite what we had in mind. Stranger Things is heading to the stage for Stranger Things: The First Shadow, a live stage play at the Phoenix Theater in London’s West End. 

We now officially have our first look at the Stranger Things play in full force. Netflix has released an image that reveals how the play will look when it’s being performed. The staging is pretty cool. And it looks like someone is fully dressing as a Demogorgon, which we have to applaud. Our least favorite creatures, the Demobats, are also flapping around. And at the center of it all is, of course, Henry Creel, a.k.a Vecna.

Netflix

Netflix has also revealed that the first act title of the Stranger Things play will be, “Chapter One: The Girl From Nowhere.” Very mysterious. Start your speculating now.

The Stranger Things Play Synopsis and First-Look Rehearsal Images

The Stranger Things play is based on an original story by the Duffer Brothers, Jack Thorne, and Kate Trefry (who wrote this play) and will hit the stage sometime in late 2023. Of course, Netflix will produce it alongside Sonia Friedman Productions, and fans will certainly show up to see what happens. Here’s the plot synopsis for Stranger Things: The First Shadow stage play: 

Hawkins, 1959: a regular town with regular worries. Young Jim Hopper’s car won’t start, Bob Newby’s sister won’t take his radio show seriously and Joyce Maldonado just wants to graduate and get the hell out of town. When new student Henry Creel arrives, his family finds that a fresh start isn’t so easy… and the shadows of the past have a very long reach. Brought to life by a multi-award-winning creative team, who take theatrical storytelling and stagecraft to a whole new dimension, this gripping new adventure will take you right back to the beginning of the Stranger Things story – and may hold the key to the end.

Netflix/Sonia Friedman Productions

We also have our first look at rehearsals for Stranger Things: The First Shadow. In them, we prominently see Henry Creel glaring into space and also get our first tease of a young Joyce Byers (at the time Joyce Maldonado)

Additionally, a teaser for the Stranger Things play hints that it could also be crucial for understanding what’s to come in Stranger Things 5.

#StrangerThingsOnStage will take you right back to the beginning of the Stranger Things story – and it might hold the key to what comes next… 🔥 pic.twitter.com/3y9waLiG9j

— Stranger Things (@Stranger_Things) July 5, 2023

We have to admit that it is quite an interesting take on the series. Fans met Henry Creel and his family last season, and there’s certainly a lot to mine from his story. Sure, there were flashes of his childhood and backstory. But now we will get to see more about his life in the Stranger Things play. And, who isn’t curious about what a young Hopper, Joyce, and Bob were like, as well as the town itself? At this time, Jim and Joyce would have been between 17-19 years old, with the former getting ready to be drafted into the Vietnam War. So, they probably would have little to no interaction with Henry, who was middle school-aged in 1959. But hey, they could always play with timelines and bend the rules a bit.

Behind The Scenes of Stranger Things: The First Shadow

In honor of Stranger Things Day 2023, Netflix shared our long look at the play. Among other tidbits, Stranger Things: The First Shadow sounds like it will prominently feature a love story between the soon-to-be Vecna, Henry Creel, and Bob Newby’s sister, Patty Newby. Writer Kate Trefry shares that the main thrust of the story is Patty and her little budding romance with Henry. We admit we did not see that one coming.

Additionally, the featurette notes that the Stranger Things play is the origin story of how Henry Creel became Number 001 and of the Upside Down. Plus, there will be blood, guts, and Easter eggs.

Stranger Things: The First Shadow Cast and Ticket Information

Welcome to Hawkins, 1959. Before the world turned upside down…

Stranger Things: The First Shadow. A new story live on stage.

London | Late 2023 | https://t.co/6dx4JppFhw pic.twitter.com/DTcWn21wXE

— Stranger Things On Stage (@STOnStage) March 1, 2023

The Stranger Things play cast is also set! Shane Attwooll and Christopher Buckley will portray Chief Hopper and Bob Newby, respectively. Oscar Lloyd will be James Hopper, Jr. and we can’t wait to learn more about him. Michael Jibson will take on the role of Victor Creel, Louis McCartney plays his son Henry Creel, and Lauren Ward will be Virginia Creel. Isabella Pappas will portray Joyce Maldonaldo, Ella Kaurna Williams is Patty Newby, and Patrick Vaill rounds out the cast as Dr. Brenner.

Tickets for the Stranger Things play went on sale March 30th. And tickets are now available for as low as £45 (USD $57.20). Additionally, fans can lottery to get “Shadow Seats” for the performances via the TodayTix app. These 11 pairs of seats will be available via lottery each week and cost £19.59 per seat, according to Variety.

The play itself will begin its run in November.

Originally published on March 1, 2023.

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DUNE: PART TWO Moves Release Date Up to Very Start of March 2024

After a very long wait, Dune hit theaters in the fall of 2021 to both rave reviews and big box office. This 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.

Recently, according to Variety, Dune: Part Two‘s release date shifted for a second time. It will now release on March 1, 2024, instead of March 15. Originally, the movie was actually meant to release on November 3, 2023. But now we will look forward to it in early March.

Dune: Part Two joins many movies that have shifted their releases after the resolution of Hollywood’s strikes.

Warner Bros. / Legendary Pictures

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

Title

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 that Tim Blake Nelson joined the cast in an unknown role.

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.

Originally published on August 1, 2022.

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

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