Entertainment, Arts, Fashion and Technology
Lost Star Celebrates Yu-Gi-Oh! Anniversary With Competitive Duel at San Diego's 2006 Comic-Con International
Malcolm David Kelley, Who Portrays 'Walt' on the Hit ABC Show, Will Take on Reigning National Yu-Gi-Oh! TRADING CARD GAME Champion Austin Kulman at Comic-Con on July 22
4Kids Entertainment, Konami and Upper Deck Entertainment Celebrate Yu-Gi-Oh!'s Success as the Number One Trading Card Game in the World With Nomination into the Guinness Book of World Records
The Yu-Gi-Oh TRADING CARD GAME (TCG) -- the world's number one trading card game -- celebrates its 5th year anniversary at the 2006 Comic-Con International with a competitive "Duel" between Lost star Malcolm David Kelley ("Walt") and reigning National TCG champion, 11-year-old Austin Kulman of Bellvue, Wa. The action will take place in the main exhibit hall on Saturday, July 22, at 2 p.m. at the Upper Deck booth (#2829) and will be followed by a meet-and-greet session with Yu-Gi-Oh! fans.
"I've been collecting Yu-Gi-Oh! cards and have been playing the game for the past couple of years," Kelley said. "I would be really surprised if I were able to beat Austin during this match!"
Kelley has been a part of the ensemble cast of the Emmy Award-winning Lost series since its debut on ABC in 2004. Kelley portrays Walt, a 14-year-old boy who, upon being reunited with his father, embarks on the ill-fated flights that crashes in the South Pacific.
As the youngest Yu-Gi-Oh! TCG Champion ever, Kulman defeated over 350 of the nation's best Yu-Gi-Oh! players at last month's National Championship event. As the National champion, Kulman will represent the United States in the Yu-GI-Oh! TCG World Championship Tournament this summer in Tokyo, competing against 25 countries for the coveted title, "King of Games."
Since its introduction in the U.S. by 4Kids Entertainment in 2001, the Yu-Gi-Oh! TCG has become a worldwide phenomenon with 15.8 billion cards sold, which not only surpasses all other trading card games, but has qualified the Yu-Gi-Oh! TCG for a nomination into the Guinness Book of World Records.
The Yu Gi Oh! TCG is a game of strategy, where players create individual decks of cards collected from starter sets and booster packs. Two players engage in a Dual while using cards that represent powerful monsters, magical spells and surprising traps.
The Yu Gi Oh! TCG is a product of the Konami Corporation and is distributed worldwide (with the exception of Asia) by the Upper Deck Company.
In addition to the trading card game, Yu-Gi-Oh! has seen tremendous success as a videogame from Konami and toys from Mattel. The original Yu-Gi-Oh! television series will air this fall on 4Kids TV and new episodes of Yu-Gi-Oh! GX will debut on Cartoon Network next month. The show was number one on Cartoon Network's Miguzi block last season.
Source: Upper Deck
Obsidian Entertainment and Neverwinter Nights 2 Make Guest Appearance at Comic Con in San Diego, July 20-23
Who: Obsidian Entertainment, the prominent video game development studio currently working on the highly-anticipated Neverwinter Nights 2. Neverwinter Nights 2 is set in the popular Dungeons & Dragons(R) Forgotten Realms(TM) universe created by Wizards of the Coast. The Neverwinter Nights franchise has sold more than two million copies worldwide and features one of the largest and most active fan communities in all of gaming. What: An exclusive, behind-the-scenes look at Neverwinter Nights 2 at this year's Comic Con fan convention, the annual event dedicated to pop-culture trends and youth culture, including movies, anime, videogames and comics. Obsidian Entertainment founders Feargus Urquhart, Chris Avellone and Darren Monahan as well as lead designer Josh Sawyer will speak at this year's Comic Con and provide convention-goers with in-depth insight into the development of Neverwinter Nights 2. Where: Comic Con San Diego Convention Center: 111 W. Harbor Drive, San Diego, CA 92101 When: Thu-Sun, July 20-23 10:00am to 7:00pm (5:00pm Sunday) Obsidian Feature Presentations: Thursday, July 20, 12:00-1:00pm Writing for the Computer Gaming Industry (Chris Avellone) Sunday, July 23, 2:30-4:00pm Neverwinter Nights 2 Feature Presentation
Autodesk Technology Puts the Sizzle in This Summer's Blockbusters: Lady in the Water, Pirates of the Caribbean: Dead Man's Chest, X-Men: The Last Stand, and More
From computer- generated sea creatures to entire virtual cities, digital artists relied on Autodesk, Inc.'s (NASDAQ:ADSK) media and entertainment solutions to realize stunning visual effects for this summer's hottest films. The industry's leading post-production facilities delivered blockbuster action, adventure and dramatic content created with Autodesk's advanced visual effects, animation, editing and digital color grading solutions.
"Once again, our clients have produced awe-inspiring, visual movie experiences using Autodesk software," said Marc Petit, vice president of Autodesk, Media & Entertainment Solutions. "This summer's blockbusters offer the ultimate escape from reality. We are proud that our tools enable artists to take movie viewers into such rich and dynamic environments as Captain Jack Sparrows' exotic Caribbean seas."
Autodesk's Discreet Inferno system was used by Industrial Light & Magic (ILM) as part of its proprietary SABRE visual effects system to create supernatural scenes for Lady In the Water. In one sequence, a giant eagle- like bird swoops in and rescues the film's heroine. The rescue is shown through a reflection in the water. Digital artists at ILM used Inferno to create the distorted look of the reflection and to add lightning and rain to the scene. The system was also used to add shadows, mist and rain to a scene where branch monsters drag away a scrunt -- a dog-like grass monster; and to create the mystical ball of mud that Cleveland Heep, the film's hero, needs to retrieve from the heroine's lair in order to save her.
ILM also helped bring to life the misguided escapades of Captain Jack Sparrow in Pirates of the Caribbean: Dead Man's Chest. One of the scenes shaped by ILM shows Will Turner and the crew of the Black Pearl captured by cannibals and held in a round cage made of bones hanging over a ravine. Inferno was used to composite together shots of the actors filmed against a blue screen, a water plate, and a digital matte cliff, as well as to add birds, mist and foot bridges to the scene. The system was also used to texture, light and animate Ragetti's wooden eye. Autodesk Maya 3D animation software was used by artists at ILM to rig Davy Jones and the Kraken sea creature's tentacles.
Specializing in digital cosmetic enhancements, LOLA VFX also used Autodesk's Discreet Inferno system as a fountain of youth for the opening sequence of X-Men: The Last Stand. Digital artists relied on reference footage, consultations from plastic surgeons and special techniques developed with Inferno to make Professor Xavier and Magneto look up to 20 years younger. While digital cosmetic fixes such as wrinkle reduction, eye enhancements and dental corrections are becoming more common in film, this is the first time that such a drastic age-reduction effect has been undertaken. LOLA VFX's sister studio Hydraulx also worked on the film, completing 235 shots with Inferno, Flame, Burn, Maya, Autodesk Combustion desktop compositing software and Autodesk Backdraft media management and I/O software.
Furthermore, Framestore CFC completed approximately 110 shots for X-Men: The Last Stand using Maya software. "We used Autodesk Maya to assemble, rig and animate the Golden Gate Bridge," explained Craig Lyn, VFX supervisor on the film. "The sheer size of this 3D asset was a major issue that we overcame using Maya. The software fit into our existing animation and rendering pipeline seamlessly and allowed us to create custom tools that improved our workflow." The facility also used Maya to create a digital double of actor Ben Foster (who plays the part of Angel), as well as to give him computer- generated wings.
Other summer films created with Autodesk solutions include: -- Click: Sony Pictures Imageworks used Maya for animated characters, set creation and light placement -- The Da Vinci Code: Double Negative used Maya for approximately 80 computer-generated shots including Robert Langdon's eidetic memory -- Poseidon: ILM used Maya to model 181,579 renderable pieces that were then fit together to create the film's 1100-foot-long computer- generated luxury cruise liner. Hydraulx also worked on the film using Inferno, Flame, Combustion, Burn, Maya and Backdraft -- Mission: Impossible III: ILM used Maya and Inferno as part of its proprietary SABRE visual effects system to create a computer-generated city of Shanghai as well as a variety of realistic action scenes for the film -- Krrish: EFX, a division of Prasad Labs, used Maya, Combustion, 3ds Max, Flame, the Discreet Smoke editing and finishing system and the Discreet Lustre digital color grading system to create this Bollywood superhero film
For more information and to view imagery, visit www.autodesk.com/SummerBlockbusters.
About Autodesk
Autodesk, Inc. is a Fortune 1000 company, wholly focused on ensuring that great ideas are turned into reality. With seven million users, Autodesk is the world's leading software and services company for the manufacturing, building, infrastructure, wireless data services and media and entertainment fields. Autodesk's solutions help customers create, manage and share their data and digital assets more effectively. As a result, customers turn ideas into competitive advantage by becoming more productive, streamlining project efficiency and maximizing profits.
Founded in 1982, Autodesk is headquartered in San Rafael, California. For additional information about Autodesk, please visit www.autodesk.com.
NOTE: Autodesk, Backdraft, Burn, Combustion, Discreet, Flame, Inferno, Lustre, Maya, Smoke and 3ds Max are registered trademarks or trademarks of Autodesk, Inc./Autodesk Canada Co. in the USA and/or other countries. All other brand names, product names or trademarks belong to their respective holders
Outrageous Animated Hilarity on DVD for the First Time Ever From Television's Most Enduring Comic Franchise 'Saturday Night Live: The Best of Saturday TV Funhouse'
Arrives on DVD With All Sketches Featured in Their Original, Un-Cut Versions Never Before Seen on TV on October 24, 2006 From Universal Studios Home Entertainment
No one is safe from the hilarious, razor sharp animated satire of "Saturday Night Live: The Best of Saturday TV Funhouse," coming to DVD on October 24, 2006 from Universal Studios Home Entertainment. Produced by Broadway Video, the latest in the phenomenally successful "Saturday Night Live: Best Of" DVD lineup features highlights from a series of uproariously irreverent adult cartoons that skewer everything from politics and current events to superheroes. The brainchild of "Saturday Night Live's" Emmy(R) Award winning writer Robert Smigel, these animated segments introduced some of the show's most memorable sketches and characters. Classic sketches including the cult-favorite "Ambiguously Gay Duo" starring Stephen Colbert ("The Colbert Report") and Steve Carell ("The 40 Year-Old Virgin"), "The X-Presidents," "Michael Jackson," "Saddam and Osama" and "Fun with Real Audio." A must-own for every "SNL" fan, "Saturday Night Live: The Best of Saturday TV Funhouse" includes the critically-acclaimed NBC special featuring live segments with hosts Ace and Gary and the entire "Saturday Night Live" cast, here with uncut versions of the greatest animated segments of the series.
Outrageously funny bonus features include over an hour of additional cartoons, some of which have never before aired on TV, and commentaries from Smigel, Colbert, Carell, the animators, David Wachtenheim, Robert Marianetti, and JJ Sedelmaier, and many celebrities who've been parodied on "TV Funhouse" including Mr. T, Al Franken, Bryant Gumbel, Ladysmith Black Mambazo and more. Even James Carville comments on the infamous "Fun with Real Audio: Clinton's Apology" cartoon. The DVD is priced at $19.98 SRP. Pre-order close is September 19, 2006.
Written, directed and produced by Smigel, "Saturday Night Live: The Best of Saturday TV Funhouse" bursts with the trademark comic energy and originality familiar to fans of his most infamous creation, Triumph the Insult Comic Dog. Whether re-imagining America's former presidents as cliche-spewing superheroes or supplementing the actual words of politicians and celebrities with outrageous visuals, the irrepressible Smigel creates uniquely twisted, sidesplitting animated segments that leave viewers gasping in shock and awe.
Since its debut in 1975, "Saturday Night Live" has been the gold standard for edgy, irreverent comedy on television, showcasing some of the brightest comedic lights in the past 30 years. Created by Emmy(R) winner Lorne Michaels, who also serves as executive producer and writer, the program, produced by Broadway Video has won 18 Emmy(R) Awards and been nominated for more than 80, as well as winning the prestigious George Foster Peabody Award. With eight million viewers tuning in each week, the late-night comedy showcase has become a show business institution, and the most enduring and celebrated comedy franchise in television history.
Razor Sharp Bonus Material * Over one-hour of extra cartoons presented in their original, "uncut" versions. * Audio commentary with Robert Smigel, Steve Carell, Stephen Colbert, Mr. T, James Carville, Bryant Gumbel, Ladysmith Black Mambazo and others. * Original Art and Storyboards. Synopsis
"Saturday Night Live: The Best of Saturday TV Funhouse" showcases some of the legendary show's boldest, most subversive humor. Created by Emmy(R) Award-winning "SNL" writer Robert Smigel (the celebrated comic behind the original "Late Night with Conan O'Brien" and Triumph the Insult Comic Dog), "Saturday Night Live: The Best of TV Funhouse" bristles with the outrageous, original comedy and social satire that have made "Saturday Night Live" America's favorite late night television show for more than 30 years. Smigel pokes not-so-gentle fun at sacred cows, with classic cartoon satires including "The Ambiguously Gay Duo" (featuring the voices of Steve Carell and Stephen Colbert), "The New Adventures Of Mr. T," "Michael Jackson," "Saddam and Osama," "Fun with Real Audio" and "The X Presidents." Winner of 18 Emmy(R) Awards, "Saturday Night Live" is the longest-running comedy series in television history and has launched generations of comedy stars.
TECHNICAL INFORMATION DVD Street Date: October 24, 2006 Pre-Order Close: September 26, 2006 Copyright: 2006 Universal Studios. All Rights Reserved. Price: $19.98 SRP Selection Number: 32071 Running Time: 76 Minutes (Subject to change) Layers: Dual Aspect Ratio: Full Frame (1.33:1) Rating: Not Rated Technical Info: English Dolby Digital 2.0 Stereo
For artwork or screeners, please log on to our Web site at www.ushepublicity.com or fax your request to Universal Studios Home Entertainment Publicity at (818) 866-0226.
Universal Studios Home Entertainment is a unit of Universal Pictures, a division of Universal Studios (www.universalstudios.com). Universal Studios is a part of NBC Universal, one of the world's leading media and entertainment companies in the development, production, and marketing of entertainment, news, and information to a global audience. Formed in May 2004 through the combining of NBC and Vivendi, NBC Universal owns and operates a valuable portfolio of news and entertainment networks, a premier motion picture company, significant television production operations, a leading television stations group, and world-renowned theme parks. NBC Universal is 80%-owned by General Electric, with 20% owned by Vivendi.
Broadway Video Entertainment is a major independent producer of television and film entertainment and one of New York's leading design and post-production services companies. Founded in 1979 by Lorne Michaels, Emmy(R) Award-winning creator and executive producer of the landmark television comedy "Saturday Night Live," Broadway Video provides award-winning design, video and audio production services, as well as duplication, encoding and DVD authoring services for leading entertainment and corporate clients. Broadway Video develops and produces popular feature film and television entertainment through its Broadway Video Motion Pictures and Broadway Video Television divisions. In addition, its Broadway Video Enterprises manages the company's extensive library of original and acquired entertainment content, distributing it to television and home video markets worldwide. For information: www.broadwayvideo.com.
Atari's Test Drive Unlimited Breaks New Pricing Grounds
- Company Announces US$39.95 Pricepoint For Next-Generation Triple-A Racing Title -
- Gaming Experience Extends Via Monthly Car and Music Downloads -
Atari, Inc. (NASDAQ:ATAR) , one of the world's most recognized brands and a leading third-party video game publisher, today announced official pricing for its upcoming, highly- anticipated next-generation racing game, Test Drive Unlimited. Atari will offer Test Drive Unlimited for Xbox 360(TM) video game and entertainment system from Microsoft for US$39.95. To further extend consumers' gaming experiences, Test Drive Unlimited car packs featuring six or more cars, complete with genre-specific radio stations, will be available for download monthly, beginning six weeks after launch on Xbox Live Marketplace.
"Innovation should be available to everyone, not a privilege for those can afford high price tags," said Bruno Bonnell, Chairman, CEO and Chief Creative Officer of Atari. "Our GamersFirst program demonstrated the positive impact of flexibility in pricing. We believe it is our mission to deliver triple-A games that are accessible to the masses. As such, we are offering Test Drive Unlimited -- a game that is being positively touted and recognized by the media -- for $39.95, and furthermore, will continue users' experiences past launch by featuring new cars and free music for download."
Test Drive Unlimited's monthly car packs will feature a mixture of manufacturers and models of the world's finest vehicles. Each downloaded car pack will also include a free radio station. Radio stations will be set according to genres, such as Rock, Blues, Electronic, R&B, Jazz, Latin, etc., and feature between 10-20 songs.
Test Drive Unlimited has been receiving accolades from industry media as one of the top racing games this decade. GameDaily declared, "This is the kind of racing game I live for," while IGN.com stated, "There's no denying Test Drive Unlimited is looking like one of recent memory's most unique racers." TeamXbox described Test Drive Unlimited as a "revolutionary online driver." At this year's E3, the annual video game trade show, Test Drive Unlimited received a slew of E3 nominations and awards, including both PLAY Magazine and GameTrailers.com "Best Racing Game."
Packed with 90 vehicles, one thousand plus miles of open roads and a host of online options, Test Drive Unlimited is M.O.O.R.: Massively Open Online Racing -- the ultimate online automotive gaming experience for Xbox 360 gamers. Both online and offline gamers will experience the world's most exotic and fastest vehicles on Test Drive Unlimited's diverse Hawaiian roads. Gamers win races, challenges, missions and tournaments to earn credits and purchase new cars, bikes, apparel, homes and garages. Boasting huge online content, racers around the world can challenge others to join them in the virtual paradise of the game's persistent online racing world. Players will engage in online challenges, and build communities by creating or joining exclusive members clubs to talk, trade cars, and race with other like-minded and similarly-skilled drivers in Test Drive Unlimited, one of the most comprehensive online racing experiences to date.
For more information about Test Drive Unlimited, please visit www.testdriveunlimited.com
About Atari
New York-based Atari, Inc. (NASDAQ:ATAR) develops interactive games for all platforms and is one of the largest third-party publishers of interactive entertainment software in the U.S. The Company's 1,000+ titles include hard- core, genre-defining franchises such as The Matrix(TM) (Enter The Matrix and The Matrix: Path of Neo) and Test Drive(R); and mass-market and children's franchises such as Nickelodeon's Blue's Clues(TM) and Dora the Explorer(TM), and Dragon Ball Z(R). Atari, Inc. is a majority-owned subsidiary of France- based Infogrames Entertainment SA (Euronext - ISIN: FR-0000052573), the largest interactive games publisher in Europe. For more information, visit www.atari.com.
Safe Harbor Statement
With the exception of the historical information contained in this release, the matters described herein contain certain "forward-looking statements" that are made pursuant to the Safe Harbor provisions of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Forward-looking statements in this release are not promises or guarantees and are subject to risks and uncertainties that could cause our actual results to differ materially from those anticipated. These statements are based on management's current expectations and assumptions and are naturally subject to uncertainty and changes in circumstances. We caution you not to place undue reliance upon any such forward-looking statements. Actual results may vary materially from those expressed or implied by the statements herein. Some of the factors which could cause our results to differ materially include the following: the loss of key customers, such as Wal-Mart, Best Buy, Target, GameStop and EB Games; delays in product development and related product release schedules; inability to secure capital; adapting to the rapidly changing industry technology, including new console technology; maintaining relationships with leading independent video game software developers; maintaining or acquiring licenses to intellectual property; fluctuations in the Company's quarterly net revenues and results of operations based on the seasonality of our industry; the termination or modification of our agreements with hardware manufacturers; and other factors described in our SEC filings.
The Company undertakes no duty to update any forward-looking statements to conform the statement to actual results or changes in the Company's expectations.
ATARI, the ATARI logo, and classic Atari game titles and logos are trademarks or registered trademarks of Atari Interactive, Inc. or its affiliates.
All other trademarks are the property of their respective owners. Xbox, Xbox 360, and Xbox Live are either registered trademarks or trademarks of Microsoft Corporation in the United States and/or other countries.
All other trademarks are the property of their respective owners.
Source: Atari, Inc.
July 27 Proclaimed YouthAIDS Day in Washington D.C. as R&B Recording Artist Lyfe Jennings and HIV/AIDS Experts Mark Dybul and Marsha Martin Join Ashley and Wynonna Judd to Host the Washington Mystics YouthAIDS Forum
-- The Washington Mystics Foundation and YouthAIDS announce today that chart topping R&B recording artist Lyfe Jennings and well known HIV/AIDS experts Dr. Mark Dybul and Marsha Martin will join YouthAIDS Global Ambassador Ashley and YouthAIDS U.S. Ambassador Wynonna Judd to host the YouthAIDS Forum at the Verizon Center on July 27.
In honor of YouthAIDS day at the Washington Mystics, and in an effort to continue to bring light to the problem of HIV/AIDS, Mayor Anthony A. Williams has declared July 27 YouthAIDS day in the District.
"The Washington Mystics Foundation is thrilled to be able to bring together such a diverse panel of experts and artists to encourage dialogue with D.C. teens about HIV/AIDS," said Sheila Johnson, president and managing partner of the Washington Mystics.
The day-long event will begin with the YouthAIDS forum, taking place from 3:00pm - 4:30pm, which will bring together hundreds of area youth to talk about HIV/AIDS. The YouthAIDS panel will include YouthAIDS Global Ambassador Ashley Judd and YouthAIDS U.S. Ambassador Wynonna Judd, Lyfe Jennings, Dr. Mark Dybul, Marsha Martin and a panel of peer educators from D.C. based Metro Teen AIDS with the assistance of Hip Hop forum hosts Adimu and Kira Means.
YouthAIDS Day will continue with the Washington Mystics game, including a half time performance by Lyfe Jennings, and ending with a concert by country music icon Wynonna Judd.
Complimentary tickets to the YouthAIDS forum are available to teens, youth groups, and families. For more information call the Hip Hop Forum Ticket Hotline at 202.266.2393 through July 24.
Tickets to both the game and the post-game concert can be purchased for the same price by calling 1-877-DC Hoop1 or by visiting the Mystics web site at http://www.washingtonmystics.com/.
The YouthAIDS forum is one in a continuing series of Hip Hop Forums created by the Washington Mystics Foundation and sponsored by Freddie Mac and Southwest Airlines to promote meaningful dialogue among the city's youth. The Washington Mystics Foundation appreciates the commitment of its sponsors.
We encourage young people to attend the YouthAIDS Forum to learn more about prevention and treatment of HIV/AIDS. We applaud the Mystics Foundation for taking a leadership position on this issue for the youth in our community. -- Maxine B. Baker, Freddie Mac Southwest Airlines is committed to the Hip Hop Forum's mission of inspiring and educating young people to dream and want better lives and seek positive opportunities. The youth of today are our future leaders for tomorrow, and that is why Southwest Airlines is committed to improving the lives of youth. We applaud the Mystics Foundation for informing our youth about issues that affect them such as HIV/AIDS. -- Peter A. Wynne, Multicultural National Promotions Coordinator, Southwest Airlines
For additional information about the Mystics, visit the web site, http://www.washingtonmystics.com/. For more information about YouthAIDS, log onto http://www.youthaids.org/.
The Washington Mystics Foundation is a non-profit organization dedicated to empowering and improving the health and well-being of youth in the Washington D.C. metropolitan area. The efforts of the Foundation shall serve as a model for health and wellness programs not only in the Washington D.C. metropolitan area but across the nation with its innovative and creative approach.
YouthAIDS, an education and prevention initiative of PSI, uses media, pop culture, music, theatre and sport to stop the spread of HIV/AIDS and reach 600 million young people in more than 60 countries with life-saving messages, products, services and care.
The Man of Steel and Other Super Heroes Take Flight as Stamps and Stamped Postal Cards
Superman joined Batman, Wonder Woman and seven other comic book legends in extending their immortality to postage today when the U.S. Postal Service dedicated the "DC Comics Super Heroes" commemorative stamps and stamped postal cards. The ceremony took place at the world's largest comic book and pop culture show -- Comic-Con International 2006 http://www.comic-con.org/.
The stamps and stamped postal cards are available in San Diego today and nationwide July 21.
"We are here to celebrate a moment in time that most of us have shared," said William Campbell, U.S. Postal Service Judicial Officer, in dedicating the stamps. "I am talking about that age when the heroes of comic books were our personal friends. When their battles were our battles. When their victories made us cheer and their defeats made us sad. When their values helped strengthen our own understanding of right and wrong. Today, our heroes are back in all their glory and in some of their finest moments."
Joining Campbell in dedicating the stamps was DC Comics Publisher and President Paul Levitz, http://www.dccomics.com/.
"The DC Comics Super Heroes have been a beloved part of America's culture for almost seven decades as the most significant characters to emerge from comic books -- a true American art form," said Levitz. "It is both fitting and exciting for these heroes to be commemorated as stamps by the U.S. Postal Service."
This is the first stamp pane honoring comic book Super Heroes to be issued by the Postal Service. Half of the pane of 20 stamps are portraits of the characters: Aquaman, Batman, The Flash, Green Arrow, Green Lantern, Hawkman, Plastic Man, Supergirl, Superman and Wonder Woman.
The other 10 stamps depict covers of individual comic books devoted to these Super Heroes' exploits. They include: Plastic Man #4, Summer 1946; The Brave And The Bold #36, June/July 1961; Green Lantern #4, Jan./Feb. 1961; The Flash #111, Feb./Mar. 1960; Wonder Woman #22 (2nd series); Aquaman #5 (of 5), Oct. 1989; The Daring New Adventures of Supergirl #1, Nov. 1982; Superman #11, July/Aug. 1941; and Green Arrow #15, Sept. 2002 (see attached).
Ever since Superman was introduced to readers in 1938, Super Heroes have been nearly synonymous with comic books. Their fantastic adventures provide an escape from the everyday, stimulating the imaginations of young -- and often, not so young -- readers, encouraging them to believe that within each of us are fantastic abilities, ready to help us combat the Lex Luthors and Riddlers of the world. All we need is a phone booth or Batcave to transform ourselves into a Caped Crusader.
Comic books aren't simply "kid's stuff." Adults have always been among their fans, and the form has attracted its share of serious artists and writers. Super Heroes have responded to social and political issues from the start, fighting injustice and corruption during the Depression, and then becoming patriotic defenders of national interests during World War II. Art director Carl T. Herrman worked with the creative staff at DC Comics on the design of this issuance.
Visitors attending Comic-Con International 2006 can obtain a special Comic-Con postmark available each day of the show -- Thurs., July 20, through Sun., July 23, as well as the first-day-of-issue postmark -- when visiting the U.S. Postal Service booth located in the Convention Center at Lobby A, first level at the northwest end.
Please Note: An Audio News Release on this topic and other broadcast quality sound is available at http://www.usps.com/news.
Philatelic Products There are eight philatelic products available for this stamp issue: * Item 459862, First Day Cover Full Pane -- $10.30 * Item 459864, Canceled Full Pane -- $10.30 * Item 459865, Digital Color Postmark (DCP) Random Single -- $1.50 * Item 459866, Stamped Postal Cards -- $9.95 * Item 459868, Digital Color Postmark, Set of 20 -- $30 * Item 459872, Comic Book -- $18.50 * Item 459884, Uncut Press Sheet -- $31.20 * Item 459899, Digital Color Postmark Keepsake w/DCP random sample -- $9.30 How to Order First-Day Covers
Stamp Fulfillment Services also offers first-day covers for new stamp issues and Postal Service stationery items postmarked with the official first- day-of-issue cancellation. Each item has an individual catalog number and is offered in the quarterly USA Philatelic catalog. Customers may request a free catalog by calling 800-STAMP-24 or writing to:
INFORMATION FULFILLMENT DEPT 6270 US POSTAL SERVICE PO BOX 219014 KANSAS CITY MO 64121-9014 How to Order First-Day-of-Issue Postmark
Customers have 30 days to obtain the first-day-of-issue postmark by mail. They may purchase new stamps at their local Post Office, by telephone at 800- STAMP-24, and at http://www.usps.com/shop. They should affix the stamps to envelopes of their choice, address the envelopes, to themselves or others, and place them in a larger envelope addressed to:
SUPER HEROES FDOI STATION POSTMASTER PO BOX 85530 SAN DIEGO CA 92186-5530
After applying the first-day-of-issue postmark, the Postal Service will return the envelopes through the mail. There is no charge for the postmark. All orders must be postmarked by Aug. 19, 2006.
DC Comics Super Hero Characters Batman Art by Jim Lee and Scott Williams.
After the brutal murder of his parents, young Bruce Wayne mastered nearly every known form of combat and employed his vast wealth to equip himself with the tools essential to his crime-fighting crusade as Gotham City's Dark Knight, Batman.
Wonder Woman Art by Ross Andru and Mike Esposito.
Wonder Woman has been an iconic inspiration for countless women since her debut in All Star Comics #8 in December 1941. The most recognizable female character in comics, created by William Moulton Marston, Wonder Woman remains a figure of strength, beauty and courage.
Plastic Man Art by Dick Giordano.
Eel O'Brian was a small-time gangster before an accident at a chemical plant gave him the uncanny ability to stretch and alter his shape at will. Renouncing his criminal past, O'Brian became Plastic Man, the longest arm of the law.
Superman Art by Curt Swan and Sheldon Moldoff.
Ever since his debut in the pages of Action Comics #1 (June 1938), the Superman character created by Jerry Siegel and Joe Shuster has been an icon. The big red "S" on his shirt is among the most recognized symbols in American pop culture.
Green Lantern Art by Neal Adams.
In 1970, writer Dennis O'Neil and artist Neal Adams launched a new era of relevance in comics, crafting stories in which the Green Lantern -- accompanied by his friend, Green Arrow -- addressed important issues then considered taboo for the typical "comic book."
The Flash Art by Carmine Infantino and Murphy Anderson.
An explosive mixture of lightning and laboratory chemicals endowed police scientist Barry Allen with superhuman speed, transforming him into the "Silver Age" Flash, the fastest man alive. The Scarlet Speedster was first set into motion in Showcase #4 (September/October 1956).
Aquaman Art by Jim Aparo.
The memories of Aquaman's personal tragedies run deep after he loses his son, his wife, and his monarchy. Nevertheless, the former King of the Seven Seas remains determined to protect both the Atlanteans and surface dwellers from those who endanger them.
Hawkman Art by Murphy Anderson.
Powered by the mysterious "Nth metal" in his artificial wings, Hawkman soars through the sky above Midway City. When grounding the city's worst predators, the Winged Wonder relies on his mastery of Earth's ancient weapons, among them his mace and shield.
Supergirl Art by Curt Swan and Stan Kaye.
An impressionable teenager when she first arrived on Earth, Supergirl operated as her cousin Superman's "secret weapon" while adjusting to life on her new planet. Eventually, her existence was revealed to the world, which welcomed the Girl of Steel with open arms.
Green Arrow Art by Jack Kirby and Mike Royer.
Green Arrow made his debut in More Fun Comics #73 (November 1941). Since then, the Emerald Archer's most notable escapades were in stories drawn by legendary comics creator Jack Kirby in Adventure Comics #250-256 and World's Finest Comics #96-99 (spanning 1958-1959).
DC Comic Book Covers Plastic Man #4, Summer 1946 Art by Jack Cole.
Cartoonist Jack Cole flexed his creative muscles with the always pliable, ever-reliable Plastic Man, who debuted in August 1941. Cole enjoyed a 15-year stretch experimenting with fun, unique story twists and graphics for his expandable protagonist and stout sidekick, Woozy Winks.
Batman #1, Spring 1940 Art by Bob Kane.
Batman made his debut in Detective Comics #27 in May 1939 before swinging into action -- with Robin, the Boy Wonder, by his side -- in his own series in the spring of 1940. The Dark Knight's distinguishing characteristics were intellect, skill, and grim determination.
The Brave And The Bold #36, June/July 1961 Art by Joe Kubert.
Hawkman returned in 1960, a reincarnated hero from the earlier "Golden Age" of comics. The new Winged Wonder and his spouse Hawkgirl were intergalactic police officers from a distant planet, meting out justice to the villains terrorizing Midway City.
Green Lantern #4, Jan./Feb. 1961 Art by Gil Kane and Joe Giella.
As readers entered the Space Age, so did comics. Ace test pilot Hal Jordan took flight as Green Lantern, a galactic peace officer with an emerald power ring that could create virtually anything. Willpower and fearlessness marked Jordan as a hero for the times.
The Flash #111, Feb./Mar. 1960 Art by Carmine Infantino and Joe Giella.
The Flash is capable of moving at speeds so great he can make himself invisible or travel through time and between dimensions. His fast-paced adventures highlight pseudo-science while pitting the hero against an extensive rogues' gallery of villains.
Wonder Woman #22 (2nd series), Nov. 1988 Art by George Perez.
As a worldwide ambassador of peace, Wonder Woman soared to new heights in the late 1980s. The character returned to her roots as an Amazon warrior from Paradise Island, land of heroic women. Her special powers were gifts from the Olympians.
Aquaman #5 (of 5), Oct. 1989 Art by Curt Swan and Al Vey.
Aquaman defends both land and sea with great strength, speed, and the ability to communicate telepathically with all marine life. His ultimate goal is to help both realms put aside their natural prejudices and unite in peaceful coexistence.
The Daring New Adventures of Supergirl #1, Nov. 1982 Art by Rich Buckler and Dick Giordano.
Moments before the destruction of Argo City, Kara Zor-El was rocketed to Earth and reunited with her cousin Kal-El, the hero known throughout the galaxy as Superman. Developing incredible powers and abilities, Kara chose to follow her cousin's example and fight for good.
Superman #11, July/Aug. 1941 Art by Fred Ray.
Destiny brought the infant Kal-El from Planet Krypton to Smallville, USA, where he was raised by kindly farmers. Though gifted with extraordinary powers, Kal-El -- now Clark Kent -- expresses true strength in the compassion and moral responsibility he displays in the guise of Superman.
Green Arrow #15, Sept. 2002 Art by Matt Wagner.
Trapped on a deserted island, billionaire playboy Oliver Queen learned to hunt with a bow and arrow. He escaped and became Green Arrow, a modern-day Robin Hood who uses his unparalleled skill as an archer on behalf of the underprivileged.
Since 1775, the United States Postal Service and its predecessor, the Post Office Department, have connected friends, families, neighbors and businesses by mail. An independent federal agency that visits more than 144 million homes and businesses every day, the Postal Service is the only service provider delivering to every address in the nation. It receives no taxpayer dollars for routine operations, but derives its operating revenues solely from the sale of postage, products and services. With annual revenues of $70 billion, it is the world's leading provider of mailing and delivery services, offering some of the most affordable postage rates in the world. The U.S. Postal Service delivers more than 46 percent of the world's mail volume -- some 212 billion letters, advertisements, periodicals and packages a year -- and serves ten million customers each day at its 37,000 retail locations nationwide.
Source: U.S. Postal Service
For the First Time Ever Audiences Can Experience the All-New Extended Movie Including Over 13 Additional Minutes of Never-Before-Seen Action-Packed Footage, 230 New Visual Effects Shots and Nearly 40 Minutes of Deleted Scenes
'KING KONG'
DELUXE EXTENDED EDITION
More Unforgettable Action!
More Incredible Visual Effects! More Awesome Thrills! The Adventure Epic is Now Even Bigger and Better Than Ever!
On DVD November 14, 2006 From Universal Studios Home Entertainment
UNIVERSAL CITY, Calif., July 20 /PRNewswire/ -- DVD collectors and fans of Oscar(R) winning filmmaker Peter Jackson's awe-inspiring masterpiece "King Kong" will be treated to a whole new thrilling movie experience when "King Kong: Deluxe Extended Edition" comes to DVD on November 14, 2006 from Universal Studios Home Entertainment. This definitive three-disc version of Jackson's groundbreaking action-adventure film includes over 13 additional mind-blowing minutes of King Kong's astounding visual effects and exhilarating action. "King Kong: Deluxe Extended Edition" features all new bonus content including nearly 40 minutes of deleted scenes, special introductions by the director, fascinating mini-featurettes, concept art galleries, outtakes and gag reels, trailers, commentary by Peter Jackson for the first time, and much much more. For the first time anywhere, audiences can view both the extended version of the film and the extensive all-new bonus features documenting the imagination and passion behind its making in one must-own set. The "King Kong: Deluxe Extended Edition" is priced at $34.98 SRP. Pre-order close is October 3, 2006.
In addition, the multi-disc DVD is also available in an extraordinary "King Kong: Deluxe Extended Limited Edition" DVD gift set that includes specially designed collectable packaging. A beautifully crafted King Kong figurine, created exclusively for the package by the Oscar(R)-winning artists at Weta Workshop and Weta Digital, the company responsible for the film's creature design, special makeups, miniatures and dazzling visual effects, accompanies the gift set. It's the ultimate set for the ultimate "King Kong" fan. The gift set is priced at $79.98 SRP.
Loaded with even more spine-tingling heroics and innovative visual effects than was seen in theaters, the groundbreaking "King Kong: Deluxe Extended Edition" stars an outstanding cast including Oscar(R) nominee Naomi Watts ("21 Grams"), Jack Black ("Nacho Libre"), Oscar(R) winner Adrien Brody ("The Pianist"), Colin Hanks ("Orange County"), and Andy Serkis (the "Lord of the Rings" trilogy). Director and producer Jackson co-wrote the remake of the classic 1933 film with longtime collaborators and fellow Oscar(R) winners Fran Walsh and Philippa Boyens. King Kong won three 2006 Academy Awards(R) for Achievement in Sound Editing, Sound Mixing and Visual Effects.
FROM SCRIPT TO SCREEN AT PETER JACKSON'S SIDE
The breathtaking new "King Kong: Deluxe Extended Edition" provides fans with fascinating insights into director Jackson's unique creative process. Special bonus features have been drawn from more than 3,000 hours of all-new behind-the-scenes footage recorded during the filmmaking process. This unparalleled access to the production experience gives viewers a unique and unprecedented way of viewing a classic film. Among the highlights on the three-disc set include:
DISC 1 "KING KONG" part 1 DELETED SCENES - 16 Deleted Scenes FEATURE COMMENTARY WITH DIRECTOR/WRITER/PRODUCER PETER JACKSON AND CO-WRITER/PRODUCER PHILIPPA BOYENS DISC 2 "KING KONG" part 2 THE EIGHTH BLUNDER OF THE WORLD "THE PRESENT" A NIGHT IN VAUDEVILLE KING KONG HOMAGE WETA COLLECTABLES Trailers FEATURE COMMENTARY WITH DIRECTOR/WRITER/PRODUCER PETER JACKSON AND CO-WRITER/PRODUCER PHILIPPA BOYENS DISC 3 THE "KING KONG" ARCHIVES INTRODUCTION BY PETER JACKSON THE ORIGINS OF "KING KONG" PRE-PRODUCTION PART 1: THE RETURN OF KONG PRE-PRODUCTION PART 2: COUNTDOWN TO FILMING THE VENTURE JOURNEY RETURN TO SKULL ISLAND NEW YORK, NEW ZEALAND BRINGING KONG TO LIFE PART 1: DESIGN AND RESEARCH BRINGING KONG TO LIFE PART 2: PERFORMANCE AND ANIMATION THE 1996 "KING KONG" VIDEO GALLERY THE VENTURE VIDEO GALLERY SKULL ISLAND VIDEO GALLERY NEW YORK VIDEO GALLERY KONG VIDEO GALLERY ARRIVAL AT SKULL ISLAND PRE-VIZ ANIMATIC BRONTO STAMPEDE PRE-VIZ ANIMATIC T-REX FIGHT PRE-VIZ ANIMATIC KONG'S CAPTURE PRE-VIZ ANIMATIC EMPIRE STATE BUILDING BATTLE PRE-VIZ ANIMATIC ANN DISARMS KONG MOTION-CAPTURE/ANIMATION COMPARISON KONG'S CAPTURE MOTION-CAPTURE/ANIMATION COMPARISON KONG IN NEW YORK MOTION-CAPTURE/ANIMATION COMPARISON DVD CREDITS ROM: 1996 AND 2005 SCRIPTS And Much More SYNOPSIS
Thirteen additional minutes of epic adventure, exotic creatures and awesome visual effects make "King Kong: Deluxe Extended Edition" the definitive version of Peter Jackson's ("The Lord of the Rings" trilogy) must-see, must-have action adventure epic. Naomi Watts, Adrien Brody and Jack Black star in the thrilling story of a legendary gorilla living on a treacherous island who is captured and brought to civilization by an unscrupulous filmmaker. Exclusive behind-the-scenes glimpses provided by Jackson and his crew give fans an unprecedented window into the sweeping cinematic vision that makes the "King Kong: Deluxe Extended Edition" a spectacular film experience that movie lovers will not want to miss.
CAST & FILMMAKERS Director: Peter Jackson Written By: Fran Walsh & Philippa Boyens & Peter Jackson Based on a Story by: Merian C. Cooper, Edgar Wallace Produced By: Jan Blenkin, Carolynne Cunningham, Fran Walsh, Peter Jackson Co-Producer: Philippa Boyens, Eileen Moran Director of Photography: Andrew Lesnie, ACS, ASC Production Designer: Grant Major Film Editors: Jamie Selkirk, ACE with Jabez Olssen Costume Designer: Terry Ryan Music By: James Newton Howard Cast: Naomi Watts, Jack Black, Adrien Brody, Thomas Kretschmann, Colin Hanks, Andy Serkis, Evan Parke, Jamie Bell, Kyle Chandler, John Sumner TECHNICAL INFORMATION DVD Street Date: November 14, 2006 Pre-Order Close: October 3, 2006 Copyright: 2006 Universal Studios. All Rights Reserved. Price: $34.98 SRP (Deluxe Extended Edition); $79.98 SRP (Gift Set) Selection Number: 31679 (Deluxe Extended Edition); 31680 (Gift Set) Running Time: 3 Hours 20 Minutes Layers: DVD-9 Aspect Ratio: Anamorphic Widescreen (2.35:1) Rating: PG-13 Technical Info: Dolby Digital 5.1; English SDH, Spanish, French subtitles (subject to change)
Universal Studios Home Entertainment is a unit of Universal Pictures, a division of Universal Studios (www.universalstudios.com). Universal Studios is a part of NBC Universal, one of the world's leading media and entertainment companies in the development, production, and marketing of entertainment, news, and information to a global audience. Formed in May 2004 through the combining of NBC and Vivendi Universal Entertainment, NBC Universal owns and operates a valuable portfolio of news and entertainment networks, a premier motion picture company, significant television production operations, a leading television stations group, and world-renowned theme parks. NBC Universal is 80%-owned by General Electric, with 20% owned by Vivendi.
Haley Joel Osment Brought to Huntington Hospital After Car Accident
On Thursday, actor Haley Joel Osment was brought to Huntington Hospital via ambulance after having had a car accident in La Canada. Mr. Osment has sustained cuts and abrasions, fracture to a right rib and possible fracture to his right shoulder blade. Mr. Osment is resting and will likely remain overnight for observation. He is expected to make a complete recovery from his injuries.
'Agent DVD' Launches at Comic-Con
New Consumer Magazine Aimed at DVD Fans
Agent DVD, a new consumer magazine created especially for DVD enthusiasts, makes its debut at the annual Comic-Con International July 20-23 in San Diego in print and digital editions -- as well as a Web site, www.agentdvdonline.com.
Agent DVD dives into the hottest movies coming to DVD, offering interviews and inside news from the stars, directors and DVD producers.
Created by Questex Media Group's Home Media Retailing magazine, the debut issue of Agent DVD includes interviews with Superman Returns director Bryan Singer, director Brett Ratner and stars of X-Men: The Last Stand, as well as chats with pop-culture icons such as "Battlestar Galactica" executive producer Ron Moore, and up-and-comers such as Hostel director Eli Roth and Underworld director Len Wiseman.
The inaugural issue comes with five different collectible covers and also includes feature articles on the most popular people and DVD titles from the horror, animation and sci-fi/fantasy genres. Agent DVD is also packed with the latest DVD release information for fans of comic book-themed adventures, sci- fi, horror and fantasy movies and TV shows.
Agent DVD will be available to Comic-Con attendees at no charge at the Tower Records booth and at several other major studio exhibit booths on the show floor. A free digital edition, as well as a live Web site updated throughout the show, can be found at www.agentdvdonline.com.
"Agent DVD gives an undercover look at the passionate people making movies of the comic books that they loved as kids," said Kevin Cassidy, EVP of retail stores for Tower Records. "Tower Records is thrilled to partner with Home Media Retailing as the exclusive retail distributor of Agent DVD, which we'll be handing out at the Tower Records booth at this year's Comic-Con International."
"People love filmed entertainment having to do with comics and animation, and that gives us the ideal opportunity to enter the consumer market," said Don Rosenberg, publisher of Home Media Retailing and head of Questex Media's entertainment group. "Our 27 years of experience in publishing and our close relationship with Hollywood perfectly positions us to create a unique and meaningful product."
Agent DVD and Home Media Retailing are part of Questex Media Group, Inc., (www.questex.com) a global, diversified media company serving multiple industries including technology, beauty, travel, hospitality, leisure, home entertainment, industrial and specialty services through a range of well- established, market-leading publications, events, interactive media and integrated marketing services. The company's properties include 25 trade publications, 70 websites and 25 conferences and tradeshows. Questex is headquartered in Newton, MA and has more than 400 employees in offices throughout North America, South America, Asia and Europe.
Source: Questex Media Group, Inc.
Let's Dance: Arthur and Kathryn Murray Inducted Into Dance Hall of Fame
Arthur Murray International is celebrating the induction of Arthur and Kathryn Murray, the beloved couple who taught the world to enjoy ballroom dance, into the Hall of Fame in Saratoga Springs, New York.
"We are delighted that Arthur and Kathryn Murray will now take their place alongside leading dance figures like George Balanchine, Martha Graham, Gene Kelly and Shirley Temple. Arthur and Kathryn dedicated their lives to spreading the joy and excitement of ballroom dance to millions around the world, and this is a much deserved honor," said Thomas D. Murdock, Vice President Marketing and Promotions for Arthur Murray International, Inc.
To view and download vintage television footage from the Arthur Murray Dance Party television show, one of the most popular shows of that era, visit http://www.arthurmurray.com/ . Vintage photos of Arthur and Kathryn are also available.
Today, Arthur Murray International is known around the world as the most prominent social dance entertainment company, with more than 200 franchised locations in countries on six continents, including America, Canada, Brazil, Italy, Germany, Jordan, Israel, Egypt, South Africa, Japan, Hong Kong, Australia and Puerto Rico. The Arthur Murray Franchised Dance Studios continue a tradition of more than 94 years in teaching the world to dance.
Arthur Murray instructors are found outside the studios also -- on Hollywood movie sets, backstage on Broadway and partnering with major entertainers and movie companies to promote dancing. Whenever a movie involves dance, Arthur Murray instructors are on the scene. Arthur Murray International has been involved in teaching and promoting TV shows like "Dancing With The Stars," "Ballroom Bootcamp" and "America's Ballroom Challenge." A July issue of National Geographic magazine explores the incredible popularity of social dancing in America today, taking a close look at what we dance, and why.
Several generations are being swept up in the new excitement. Private and public schools have discovered that ballroom dance is a great addition to their phys ed departments. Couples of all ages love the time they spend together on the dance floor, enjoying a low-impact workout and a shared goal. Singles find the social aspect of dance lessons adds to their confidence and gives them a boost with members of the opposite sex.
For more information on Arthur and Kathryn Murray and Arthur Murray International, visit http://www.arthurmurray.com/ .
Source: Arthur Murray International, Inc.
'Mob Over Miami' to be Made Into Feature Film, 'Unmade Man'
The True Story of Chris Paciello
On July 24th, Prestige Entertainment in association with Steve Martorano and Alan T. Brown will host a private gathering at Cafe Martorano for the producers and some of the cast members of the feature film "Unmade Man," based on the book "Mob Over Miami" by Michele McPhee. "Unmade Man," depicts the shocking true story of Chris Paciello, the Staten Island hood who became the toast of South Beach until his murderous past caught up with him.
Cast members Vincent Pastore, William DeMeo, and Tony Darrow along with writer/director Paul Borghese will be present to provide the inside scoop about the feature film "Unmade Man." The movie will take viewers from the brutal underworld of Staten Island mobsters to the glitzy world of the rich and famous in South Beach. Filming will begin in fall 2006 and take place in Brooklyn, Staten Island and Miami.
Paul Borghese and William DeMeo recently teamed up for the film "Searching For Bobby D," which will be released in late 2006. The film, which Borghese co-produced with DeMeo and directed, has already won numerous honors including Best Comedy and Audience Favorite at several international film festivals. Borghese is currently writing the screenplay adaptation of the book "Mob Over Miami," The Chris Paciello Story, and is slated to direct. As an actor, Borghese is probably best known for playing Yogi Berra in the HBO movie 61*. DeMeo is best known for his roles in "Wannabes," "Analyze That" and "Hackers" and can be seen on "The Sopranos" as one of Christopher's crew.
The event is from 7 PM - 10PM at Cafe Martorano, 343 East Oakland Park Blvd & AIA, Fort Lauderdale
American Black Film Festival Presents Vanessa Williams Starring in Liberty Artists, 'My Brother' and Sets New Industry Trend With Films Focused on African American Audiences
Liberty Artists, a New York-based film company has decided to take a different route and provide substantive, meaningful family oriented films using African American and other minority experiences as its central subject matter. Their first feature film, MY BROTHER, starring Vanessa L. Williams (UPN's South Beach and Ugly Betty), Nashawn Kearse (ABC's Desperate Housewives), and Tatum O'Neal (Dancing With The Stars), written and directed by the renowned award-winning Director Anthony Lover, will be released September 2006. The American Black Film Festival will premier, MY BROTHER, Saturday, July 22, 2006 at 2:00pm at The Regal Cinemas in Miami, Florida.
My Brother is a unique, compelling story about two underprivileged brothers from Brooklyn, New York, their quest to develop as young men, and retain their commitment to one another. One brother, James (played old and young by Christopher Scott and Donovan Jennings), is developmentally disabled, but functional. Their mother L'Tisha (Vanessa L. Williams) helps forge a bond between the brothers that neither time nor distance can break. Her efforts are proven as we watch the boys overcome impossible odds on their way to adulthood, illustrating the tag line, "Two Brothers, One Soul." Christopher Scott will receive the "Courage Award - They said it could not be done" honor from L.Marilyn Crawford, President and CEO, Primetime and Founder of Pre-Oscar Week Tinseltown to Gotham.
Writer-Director Anthony Lover states, "For a long time I have watched the industry spiral down, promoting misogynist lyrics, negativism, sex and violence only. I knew there existed an audience who could appreciate a film that emphasized and celebrated the positive influences in the minority and urban culture communities." Fortunately, the company's backers felt the same way. Liberty Artists has pledged to produce two films per year over the next three years and has stepped to the table with the right formula for growth, impact and inspiration.
"The bottom line is, once this is a proven business investment, everyone will jump on the wagon creating masterpieces that reflect the magnitude of the African American experience. We have set the ball in motion for a positive change in movie trends, which hopefully will spill over into music and other avenues," says Greg Segal, Vice President of Liberty Studios.
Liberty Artists is a film company on the verge of releasing a new and needed concept to the film industry: Heart-felt, family oriented films that use the African American experience as its subject matter. The film company is also focused internally on creating screenplays as well as commissioning and supervising additional screenwriters and directors to develop stories that are strategically tailor-made to appeal to the African American market and to larger cross over markets beyond. Also to its credit, Liberty Artists' lower budgeted productions will have the look and sound of well-made Hollywood films.
Source: Liberty Artists
Lindsay Lohan Stuns in Whiteflash.com Bangles From Life & Style Magazine at Her 20th Birthday Party
-- Lindsay Lohan celebrated her 20th birthday in style, and her favorite gifts were stunning diamond and sapphire bangle bracelets created by Whiteflash.com. Life & Style hosted a "roaring 20s" celebration with a 1920s-inspired theme and presented the celeb with the diamond bangles.
"I love them!" said Lindsay of her two new bangles, crafted in white gold and set with a combined four carats in premium diamonds and baby pink sapphires. A total weight of 2.2 carats in diamonds and sapphires adorned the first bangle while the other, complementary of its partner, was set with 2.0 carats in "A Cut Above" brand diamonds, exclusive to Whiteflash.com. All told, the combined bling is worth $4,480.
According to the magazine, the Whiteflash.com creations topped Lindsay's list of favorite gifts. Life & Style presented them to her after mingling with her 50 dinner guests, and then "the real partying" began. An additional 100 guests arrived to dance and karaoke. Lindsay was the star attraction, singing Journey and Madonna, dazzling her guests with both her talent and her new bangle bracelets. "How will I ever be able to top this for my 21st birthday?" asked Lindsay.
Interested in picking up Lohan's diamond and sapphire bangles at Whiteflash.com? Visit their online boutique at http://www.whiteflash.com/
About Whiteflash.com
Whiteflash.com is the first company in the U.S. to offer an exclusive brand of Hearts & Arrows diamond and bring the sheer beauty of "super ideal cut" to the Internet. Brian Gavin, a 5th generation diamond cutter, and Debi Wexler, a computer entrepreneur, together founded Whiteflash.com in 1999; bringing an expansive selection of loose diamonds to the Internet, including an exclusive brand of Hearts & Arrows diamonds. "A Cut Above" (ACA(TM)) is unmatched in its brilliance, fire and sparkle and remains the only Hearts & Arrows diamond sold online with advertised standards and a "true patterning" guarantee. Whiteflash.com also offers original, handcrafted platinum and gold settings, diamond engagement rings and wedding bands, custom designs and specialty jewelry.
King of Comedy Steve Harvey to Host The 11th Annual Bermuda Music Festival With an Eclectic Talent Roster
- Sultry Sounds and Convenient Travel Package Heat Up Bermuda This Fall -
The multi-talented Steve Harvey, comedian, actor and radio personality, will host this year's much anticipated Bermuda Music Festival October 4-7, 2006. The "King of Comedy" brings added funk to the 11th annual music festival's already eclectic combination of rhythm & blues, jazz and soul - along with an easy-to-book travel package - to the lineup of legendary stars.
This year's showstoppers include legends such as Gladys Knight, Maze featuring Frankie Beverly and Charlie Wilson of The Gap Band, while also highlighting chart toppers such as India.Arie, Teena Marie and Anthony Hamilton. The favorite songs of classic soul groups such as The Original Manhattans featuring Gerald Alston & Blue Lovette, Harold Melvin's Blue Notes and The Trammps will beckon guests to groove on Bermuda's pink sand.
Exclusive Bermuda Music Festival package rates start at $1,288* per person for four-day/three-night stays based on double occupancy and include airfare, hotel accommodations, and general admission to festival events. Packages can be reserved from the following cities: Atlanta, Boston, Miami, New York City, Philadelphia and Washington, D.C. Additional packages available for five- day/four-night and seven-day/six-night stays, as well as upgraded event ticketing.
Set on a spectacular stage built over the water at Bermuda's historic Royal Naval Dockyard, the Bermuda Music Festival's current performance schedule is as follows:
* Wednesday, October 4 at Fairmont Southampton, Whaler Inn Performers: Harold Melvin's Blue Notes, The Trammps and a Bermudian artist * Thursday, October 5 at Royal Naval Dockyard Performers: Steve Harvey as emcee, Gladys Knight, The Original Manhattans featuring Gerald Alston & Blue Lovette and Bermudian artists * Friday, October 6 at Royal Naval Dockyard Performers: Steve Harvey as emcee, Charlie Wilson of the Gap Band, India.Arie, Anthony Hamilton and Bermudian artists * Saturday, October 7 at Royal Naval Dockyard Performers: Maze featuring Frankie Beverly, Teena Marie, Bermuda's own Ras Mykkal and other Bermudian artists
For additional details, tickets and package information, please visit the Bermuda Music Festival website at www.bermudamusicfestival.com or call 800- BERMUDA (800-237-6832). Fairmont is the official host hotel of the 2006 Bermuda Music Festival.
Bermuda, less than two hours from East Coast gateway cities, stretches for 23 miles along turquoise waters, surrounded by a 200-square-mile coral reef plateau. Bermuda's diverse activities offer an array of vacation options, including more wreck dives than anywhere else in the world, championship golf, horseback riding, world-renowned deep sea fishing and smooth pink beaches to rest on by day's end. Accommodations range from luxury resorts to intimate guest cottages and family-run inns, all incorporating the sophistication and hospitality unique to the Bermuda experience. For more information about Bermuda, visit www.bermudatourism.com.
* The above rates are based on a minimum 3 night hotel accommodations at participating properties through GOGO WORLDWIDE VACATIONS and are based on Coach Class from (appropriate gateway and on applicable airline). Rates are per person and based on double occupancy. Rates include applicable nights hotel accommodations at participating properties and 3 nights general admission tickets to the Bermuda Music Festival taking place October 4-7, 2006. Single and triple rates available on request. Travel is valid 10-01-2006 to 10-09-2006. Packages must be booked by 10-03-2006. Actual effective dates and savings may vary by resort. Rates and promotion may change without notice and are subject to availability. Seasonal surcharges, cancellation charges, blackout dates, and other restrictions may apply. Offer cannot be combined with other offers and is for new bookings only. EP (European Plan) no meals unless noted. Special features: 3-day general admission. Airfare: Coach class.
International Documentary Association Announces Jury Selections for DocuWeek(TM)
Showcase Helps Qualify Docs for Oscar(R) Consideration
The International Documentary Association (IDA) is featuring 16 documentaries in its 10th Annual Theatrical Documentary Showcase, DocuWeek(TM). A dozen feature length documentaries and four short nonfiction films will be shown on two screens at the ArcLight(R) Hollywood from August 18-24 before traveling to other venues across the country.
"We developed this showcase to give deserving filmmakers an opportunity to qualify for Oscar(R) consideration by providing theatrical platforms where their films can be seen," says IDA Executive Director Sandra Ruch. "We also want to keep encouraging exhibitors to dedicate more screens to nonfiction films."
The Academy of Motion Picture Arts & Sciences' rules require documentary features to be exhibited on theatrical screens for paid admissions in either Los Angeles County or Manhattan for at least seven consecutive days, as well as in eight other cities.
Since its inception 10 years ago, 17 films featured in the showcase have gone on to be nominated for Academy Awards(R) with four films winning Oscars.
Features appearing in the 2006 DocuWeek are: * ABDUCTION: THE MEGUMI YOKOTA STORY is the chilling account of a 13-year-old Japanese girl who was abducted by North Korean spies in 1977. * AN UNREASONABLE MAN traces the life and career of Ralph Nader, one of the more controversial political figures of the past half-century. * BLACK GOLD follows one man's fight for fair trade in the multi-billion dollar coffee industry. * DELIVER US FROM EVIL is the story of Oliver O'Grady -- a notorious pedophile priest in the modern history of the Catholic Church. * THE GROUND TRUTH follows patriotic young Americans, articulating their war stories on-camera. * IRAQ IN FRAGMENTS illuminates post-war Iraq in three acts, building a vivid picture of a country pulled in different directions by religion and ethnicity. * JESUS CAMP is a first-ever look into an intense training ground that recruits born-again Christian children to become an active part of America's political future. * PURVIS OF OVERTOWN is the story of Purvis Young who taught himself to paint while in prison, and is now an acclaimed contemporary artist. * SO MUCH SO FAST focuses on Stephen Heywood who finds out he has a paralyzing neurological disorder and how it affects his life and loved ones. * THIS FILM IS NOT YET RATED is an unprecedented investigation into the secret Motion Picture Association of America's film ratings system and its profound impact on American culture. * TOOTS is an authentic portrait of legendary, self-made Manhattan saloonkeeper Toots Shor. * THE TRIALS OF DARRYL HUNT is the portrait of a wrongful conviction that offers a haunting examination of a community and criminal justice system subject to racial bias and tainted by fear. DocuWeek also features the following short films (40 minutes or less): * THE BLOOD OF YINGZHOU DISTRICT documents a year in the life of children in the remote villages of China who have lost their parents to AIDS. * HALF LIFE: A JOURNEY TO CHERNOBYL tells the story of the people who dealt with the world's worst nuclear disaster at ground level. * A SON'S SACRIFICE follows the journey of a young American Muslim who confronts his roots at his father's slaughterhouse in New York City. * PHOENIX DANCE is the story of accomplished dancer Homer Avila when he returns to the stage after losing a leg to cancer.
A complete schedule is available on the IDA website at www.documentary.org.
Tickets and Showcase passes for the Hollywood run of DocuWeek are only available at the ArcLight Hollywood box office (6360 Sunset Blvd.) beginning July 28, 2006, or at www.ArcLightCinemas.com. General admission is $11. Passes are $110 for the full week or $50 for a day.
The IDA is a nonprofit organization based in Los Angeles. For more information about IDA, visit www.documentary.org or call 213-534-3600.
DocuWeek is a trademark of the International Documentary Association.
Oscar and Academy Award are registered trademarks of the Academy of Motion Picture Arts & Sciences.
ArcLight is a registered trademark of ArcLight Cinemas Company.
IFC and The Independent Film Channel are service marks of The Independent Film Channel LLC. (c)
Source: International Documentary Association
Columbia Pictures and MGM Announce May 2, 2008 Release Date for 22nd James Bond Adventure Starring Daniel Craig It was announced today by producers Michael G. Wilson and Barbara Broccoli, Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer Inc. and Sony Pictures Entertainment, that the 22nd James Bond adventure will be released by Columbia Pictures on May 2, 2008 with Daniel Craig reprising the role of the legendary British secret agent.
The story for the latest James Bond film produced by the franchise holders, EON Productions has yet to be announced.
"As we wrap production on CASINO ROYALE we couldn't be more excited about the direction the franchise is heading with Daniel Craig. Daniel has taken the origins of Ian Fleming's James Bond portraying, with emotional complexity, a darker and edgier 007," said Wilson and Broccoli.
ABOUT EON PRODUCTIONS
EON Productions is owned by the Broccoli family and is the most successful film series in history. The most recent adventure, DIE ANOTHER DAY (2002), was also the highest grossing film in the franchise bringing in almost $430 million in worldwide box office receipts. THE WORLD IS NOT ENOUGH (1999) grossed $353 million, TOMORROW NEVER DIES released in 1997, grossed more than $340 million around the world and GOLDENEYE, took in $345 million.
The enduring film franchise created by the late producer, Albert R. (Cubby) Broccoli, was launched in 1962 with DR. NO starring Sean Connery, who went on to play James Bond in FROM RUSSIA WITH LOVE, GOLDFINGER, THUNDERBALL, YOU ONLY LIVE TWICE and DIAMONDS ARE FOREVER. George Lazenby had one outing as 007, in ON HER MAJESTY'S SECRET SERVICE, before Roger Moore took over the role in LIVE AND LET DIE, THE MAN WITH THE GOLDEN GUN, THE SPY WHO LOVED ME, MOONRAKER, FOR YOUR EYES ONLY, OCTOPUSSY and A VIEW TO A KILL. Timothy Dalton later inherited the role and played the famed spy in THE LIVING DAYLIGHTS and LICENCE TO KILL. The most recent James Bond was Pierce Brosnan, who starred in the global blockbusters GOLDENEYE, TOMORROW NEVER DIES, THE WORLD IS NOT ENOUGH and DIE ANOTHER DAY.
ABOUT COLUMBIA PICTURES
Columbia Pictures, part of the Columbia TriStar Motion Picture Group, is a Sony Pictures Entertainment company. Sony Pictures Entertainment (SPE) is a subsidiary of Sony Corporation of America (SCA), a subsidiary of Tokyo-based Sony Corporation. SPE's global operations encompass motion picture production and distribution; television production and distribution; digital content creation and distribution; worldwide channel investments; home entertainment acquisition and distribution; operation of studio facilities; development of new entertainment products, services and technologies; and distribution of filmed entertainment in 67 countries. Sony Pictures Entertainment can be found on the World Wide Web at http://www.sonypictures.com/.
ABOUT METRO-GOLDWYN-MAYER INC
Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer Inc. is an independent, privately-held motion picture, television, home video, and theatrical production and distribution company. The company owns the world's largest library of modern films, comprising approximately 4,000 titles, and over 10,400 episodes of television programming. Its film library has received 208 Academy Awards(R), one of the largest award-winning collections in the world, and includes numerous successful film franchises, including James Bond, Pink Panther and Rocky. MGM is owned by an investor consortium comprised of Sony Corporation of America, Providence Equity Partners, Texas Pacific Group, Comcast Corporation and DLJ Merchant Banking Partners. For more information, visit www.mgm.com.
