Amid a flurry of superhero buzz at the worldwide preview yesterday in Berlin, London, Los Angeles, Madrid, Mexico City, Moscow, New York City, Paris, Rio de Janeiro, Rome, Seoul, Sydney, and Toyko, here’s the trailer for THE AMAZING SPIDER-MAN! The untold story begins July 3rd.

One of the world’s most popular characters is back on the big screen as a new chapter in the Spider-Man legacy is revealed in The Amazing Spider-Man™. Focusing on an untold story that tells a different side of the Peter Parker story, the new film stars Andrew Garfield, Emma Stone, Rhys Ifans, Denis Leary, Campbell Scott, Irrfan Khan, with Martin Sheen and Sally Field. The film is directed by Marc Webb from a screenplay written by James Vanderbilt, based on the Marvel Comic Book by Stan Lee and Steve Ditko. Laura Ziskin, Avi Arad, and Matt Tolmach are producing the film in association with Marvel Entertainment for Columbia Pictures, which will open in theaters everywhere in 3D on July 3, 2012.

The Amazing Spider-Man is the story of Peter Parker (Garfield), an outcast high schooler who was abandoned by his parents as a boy, leaving him to be raised by his Uncle Ben (Sheen) and Aunt May (Field). Like most teenagers, Peter is trying to figure out who he is and how he got to be the person he is today. Peter is also finding his way with his first high school crush, Gwen Stacy (Stone), and together, they struggle with love, commitment, and secrets. As Peter discovers a mysterious briefcase that belonged to his father, he begins a quest to understand his parents’ disappearance – leading him directly to Oscorp and the lab of Dr. Curt Connors (Ifans), his father’s former partner. As Spider-Man is set on a collision course with Connors’ alter-ego, The Lizard, Peter will make life-altering choices to use his powers and shape his destiny to become a hero.

Swing by the official site here: THE AMAZING SPIDER-MAN

“Like” it on Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/theamazingspiderman

Follow on Twitter: @SpiderManMovie  #AmazingSpiderMan

PHOTOS BY: Jaimie Trueblood

COPYRIGHT: © 2011 Columbia Pictures Industries, Inc. All Rights Reserved

The Summer of 2011 has seen more movie adaptations of comic book superheroes than most. It started with THOR in May. June saw the the first class of X-men and the arrival of the GREEN LANTERN. Now for the last superhero of this season we’re seeing the oldest of the bunch get his cinematic ” props ” ( although Thor’s been a hero of mythology for centuries he didn’t become a comic book hero until 1962. The Green Lantern debuted in 1940, but the movie lantern, Hal Jordan, didn’t arrive till 1960 ). From 1941 comes CAPTAIN AMERICA : THE FIRST AVENGER. And it looks like they may have the saved the best for last.

After a brief prologue we’re taken back to 1942 where the power mad leader of Hitler’s technology forces, HYDRA, is at work in Norway. Johann Schmidt ( Hugo Weaving ) almost radiates evil as the group’s mastermind. Back in New York City, USA, skinny, frail Steve Rogers ( Chris Evans ) is once again prevented from enlisting in the military. After a visit to the Stark industries World of Tomorrow exhibition-an earlier version of the big show from IRON MAN 2 complete with young Howard Stark ( Dominic Cooper as Tony’s dad ), destiny calls on Steve in the form of  scientific genius Dr. Abraham Erskine ( Stanley Tucci ). Quick aside- sharp-eyed comic fans may spot another comic book icon on display in the exhibit hall. Erskine enlists Steve in his special program and the ecstatic new recruit  is whisked to Camp Leigh where he meets  British forces special agent Peggy Carter ( Hayley Atwell ) and Army Colonel Chester Phillips ( Tommy Lee Jones ), who’s apprehensive of the Steve. Tragedy occurs on the day of the big experiment and Steve becomes the only ” super soldier “. Colonel Phillips will not permit Steve to go into battle. Before Steve is shipped to a research lab an ambitious senator recruits him for a different kind of mission. Steve dons the red, white, and blue tights of Captain America and, as part of a traveling show, makes the sale of war bonds his new mission. When a scaled down version of the show plays for the troops in Italy, Steve gets a stunning wake up call. The soldiers on the front line think that he’s a joke. When Steve gets word that a childhood buddy’s been captures by HYDRA forces, he decides to put an end to the joke.Steve decides to use his enhanced abilities and join the battle in Europe. But can the only ” super soldier ” stand a chance against the massive hordes of HYDRA led by Schmidt AKA The Red Skull?

It’s hard to believe that it’s been twenty years since this film’s director Joe Johnson made on of the greatest comic book-based movies ever- THE ROCKETEER. Once again Johnson’s in his element. Cliff Secord and his pals flew through the 30′s while cap and company seamlessly inhabit the early 40′s. Johnson makes great use of montage sequences especially in the marketing of Cap to sell war bonds and in Erskine’s retelling of the origin of the Red Skull. He also puts together great action scenes ( Cap’s shield is an impressive weapon ) and keeps our interest during the quiet character moments particularly the slow, budding romance between Steve and Peggy.

The superb art direction and cinematography ably support Johnson in creating  this believable world of nearly 70 years ago. The retro-futuristic look of HYDRA’s weapons and vehicles ( love the Skull’s convertable ) is outstanding. The New York scenes have a nostalgic warm glow, while the shots of Cap and his team on a snowy mountain almost make you shiver. Special kudos to the make-up effects team for devising an impressive frightening villain.  The costume design is equally impressive with everything from civilian fashions to the chorus girl outfits and the shiny black leather uniforms of the Skull and his minions. Speaking of chorus girls, Oscar winning composer Alan Menken , along with lyricist David Zippel creates a bouncy tune, “The Star Spangled Man “  for the ladies to sing behind Cap. The rest of the film is abetted by Alan ( BACK TO THE FUTURE ) Silvestri’s rousing soundtrack score.

As they used to say at the end of many classic older films, ” A great cast is worth repeating” and that’s the case here. Chris Evans is the film’s solid anchor. There’s none of the smirks and winking asides here that he used as Johnny Storm in the Fantastic Four films. Evans projects sincerity and compassion. No matter what the size of Steve Rogers, we’re rooting for him. I’m still amazed at the pre-experiment short, frail Steve ( great job effects team). Hayley Atwell’s Peggy Carter enters the film as a no-nonsense, all business woman whose tough exterior begins to soften after spending time with Steve. She admires his spirit long before his physical transformation. Toby Jones makes for a terrific toady as the Skull’s right hand man, Dr. Armin Zola. I could imagine Peter Lorre as the character in a film from the 40′s. A hero’s only as good as his villain and Hugo Weaving’s Red Skull is a very good bad guy. Even while wearing a human mask he has a constant sneer. In a major shift from comic book continuity Sebastian Stan plays James ” Bucky ” Barnes not as a teen camp mascot, but as an old childhood pal of Steve’s. An early scene of Bucky protecting Steve is very effective. Dominic Cooper is very funny as the cocky , on-the-make young genius Howard Stark. We see where Tony gets his brains and attitude.  I enjoyed Neal McDonough, Derek Luke, and the other members of Cap’s assault team ( based on the comic book ” howling commandos “, but are never called that in the film ). Perhaps we’ll get to know them better in a future film.

And now I’ve got to single out the two acting vets who are true scene stealers. Stanley Tucci makes the genius behind the experiments, Erskine, into a warm, fatherly figure with a dry, subtle wit. His initial interview with Steve and their talk the night before the big day are wonderful quiet scenes before the big action set pieces. He’s also very amusing when clashing with Army brass in the form of the other scene stealer Tommy Lee Jones as the gruff, tough Col. Phillips who tries his best  to hide his respect for Erskine’s intellect in their few scenes together. Phillips becomes another father figure to Steve, one that challenges him. His one line dismissal of Steve’s show biz past is funny and brutal. Getting past the zingers you can see the sadness in the eyes of this old warrior. Indeed he’s spent too many hours writing condolence letters. These are two terrific supporting performances.

Well I guess the best compliment I can give the film is that I felt like I was a youngster encountering the world of Captain America for the first time. Speaking of youngsters I should warn parents that the body count is quite high and the Red Skull could inspire some nightmares in the under six set. Still I hope kids will get to know Cap through this film. Before he grabs that shield, Steve Rogers is a good person who just wants to help. The gift he is given does come with a heavy price and the look in his eyes in the final scenes is haunting. Captain America shows that anyone of us can stand tall and do the right thing. It’s a refreshing attitude for a big Hollywood blockbuster in this cynical world.

Overall Rating : Five Out of Five Stars

The very first appearance of the sentinel of liberty.

Okay fellow movie geeks! Ready for a bit of pop culture history? Before you head out to the multiplex this weekend to see Paramount’s CAPTAIN AMERICA: THE FIRST AVENGER, let’s get better acquainted with the story of this star-spangled superhero. Pencils ready! This may be on the finals!

Let’s go back a few years to Cap’s original glory days. He literally exploded on the comic scene in 1941 with Captain America Comics #1 from Timely Comics. That company had been trying to carve out a slice of the big super hero comics market pie since National Periodicals had caused a sensation with Superman in 1938 and Batman the following year. In 1939 they had a big seller with Marvel Mystery Comics #1 and introduced their two breakaway stars: The Human Torch and The Sub-Mariner. Who would come up with the next great super hero? Luckily for Timely the had the services of one of the greatest creative teams in comic book history – Joe Simon and Jack Kirby.

Simon and Kirby had given Timely several new heroes, including The Vision, but nothing close to The Human Torch and the Sub-Mariner in popularity. The war was heating up and it was only a matter of time before the United States would be involved. Simon thought a patriotic hero might break through. MLJ(later known as Archie Comics) had come out with a red, white, and blue hero called The Shield which was a modest success. “Perhaps a character with America in his name?”, thought Simon. Maybe Super American? Nope, too many ‘supers’ out there. A military title-Captain! He sketched up the uniform and got the approval from publisher Martin Goodman. Kirby quickly got to work on the pencils. This new creation would not be introduced in one of the anthology books, but would debut in his own self titled book. Issue #1 stirred up quite a bit of controversy as it featured Cap planting a sock on Adolf Hitler’s jaw-a year before the US entered the war! It was cover dated March 1941, but hit the street in December 1940. It was a big hit and soon other comic companies had to have their own flag-wearing heroes (Commando Yank, The Patriot, Major Liberty).

Captain America’s origin was the first story in that very first issue. In response to act of sabotage, the president himself sends two high ranking military officers to witness an experiment. They are in the observation gallery when Professor Reinstein injects a scrawny volunteer with a chemical that transforms him into a muscled ’ super-soldier’. The professor proudly announces that he will be the first of many. Unfortunately one of the gallery audience attendees is an undercover Gestapo agent who opens fire on the scientist. He had never written down the formula, so the program dies with the professor. The only ’super-solider’ grabs the still firing spy and delivers a mighty blow. In trying to escape the spy gets tangled in some machinery and is electrocuted. The volunteer becomes Captain America and begins smashing up saboteur rings. At Camp Leigh, camp mascot Bucky Barnes walks into Private Steve Rogers’s tent as he dons the red, white, and blue uniform. Rogers swears Bucky to secrecy and enlists him as his spy smashing sidekick Bucky. A few pages later they would meet Cap’s arch enemy, the Red Skull. And so the legend begins.

Up to this point super hero comics were an extension of the popular newspaper adventure comic strips. Simon and Kirby turned this staid format on it’s ear. They had title splash pages filled to the edges with action. Panel layouts varied in size on a page as opposed to the standard grid format of most comics. Speaking of panels, the heroes and villains could not be contained in the panels. Their highly contorted, muscular bodies burst out of the borders. It was almost 3-D comics without the special glasses.

At the end of that first story, readers were invited to join the first comic book hero fan club-Captain America’s Sentinels of Liberty. For one thin dime you would receive an official membership card and a bright red, white, and blue metal pin. The club was discontinued a couple years later supposedly because of the scarcity of metal during the height of the war.

A poster for the 1943 Republic serial.

And starring as our hero, Dick Purcell!

Two years later Cap was on movie screens across the country. In 1943 Republic Studios released a fifteen chapter movie serial titled Captain America. It was a high quality production, although fans of the comic book were no doubt disheartened by the film interpretation. Gone were the wings on his mask, the shield, and Bucky. Gone also was Cap’s Steve Rogers identity. Instead of being a soldier he was now crusading district attorney Grant Gardner. And instead of hunting Nazi agents Cap was on the trail of the master criminal called The Scarab who’s murdering the members of an expedition. Horror film veteran Lionel Atwill made a great hiss-able villain as the Scarab and Dick Purcell ( THE BANK DICK ) was a good square-jawed hero, but it just wasn’t our Cap. A recent story about the serial gives an explanation for the many changes. Republic had done well with serials based on two characters from Fawcett Comics-Captain Marvel and Spy Smasher. Rumor has it that they had a script written based on another Fawcett super hero Mr. Scarlet, who was a district attorney in his secret identity. Supposedly the studio had a falling out with the comic publisher and instead of discarding the script, Republic got the rights to Timely’s Captain America and changed him to fit the completed script. Many years later film maker Don Glut borrowed the original serial costume from memorabilia collector Bob Burns and shot a Captain America short film. You can see it on the recent DVD release ” I Was a Teenage Movie Maker”.

After ten great issues Simon and Kirby were let go from Timely after a dispute and other artists ( Syd Shores, Al Avison ) continued Cap’s adventures in his own book along with appearances in USA Comics, Marvel Mystery Comics, and All-Select Comics ( artist Alex Schomberg contributed wild, action packed covers for these books ). Simon and Kirby went over to National ( DC Comics), revamped their Sandman and Manhunter characters and created the Newsboy Legion along with the smash hit Boy Commandos. A few years later they would invent romance comics and do a Captain America parody called Fighting American. Back at Timely, after World War II ended Steve Rogers put away his khakis and pulled on a tweed jacket as a high school teacher. His new occupation would not last long. With the Axis defeated, the superheroes lost their great enemy and the comic reading public lost interest in them. Not even having Cap and Bucky team up with other Timely heroes The Human Torch and Toro, The Sub-Mariner, The Whizzer, and Miss America in the All-Winners’ Squad could heat up comic sales. Funny animals and true crime tales were the new big trend on the comic racks. In an attempt to boost sales Bucky ( badly wounded and in the hospital ) was replaced as Cap’s fighting partner by the glamorous Golden Girl. Finally his book was renamed Captain America’s Weird Tales with issue # 74 to capitalize on another trend: horror. With #75 Cap was not in his book any longer. By the end of 1950, Captain America was gone, but far from forgotten.

Cap's 1940's comic book swan song.

Surprisingly he was back three years later. Buoyed by the success of the TV show ” The Adventures of Superman ” starring George Reeves, Timely ( now Atlas )decided to bring back the superheroes- specifically The Human Torch, The Sub-Mariner, and Captain America. They returned in Young Men #24. Steve Rogers was back teaching school, Bucky had healed, and Steve’s alter ego was now “Captain America-Commie Smasher” , reflecting the cold war concerns. Cap’s old Nazi foe The Red Skull was naturally now a ‘red’ agent. The principal artist was now John Romita, future Marvel art director ( and second Spider-Man penciller). But the new stories didn’t take off. After four more issues of Young Men, two issues of Men’s Adventures, and three more issues of his revived self titled book, Captain America was back in comic book limbo.

About ten years later, Cap was back in action thanks in part to rival DC Comics, strangely enough. In 1956 DC had decided to test the waters by featuring a new, revamped version of one of their 1940′s heroes, The Flash, in Showcase #4. New versions of Green Lantern, Atom, Hawkman, and a superhero team book, Justice League of America, soon followed. Legend has it that Atlas publisher Martin Goodman was golfing with one of the DC big-wigs, when the man started boasting about the sales figures on the Justice League book. Returning to the office, Goodman instructed editor Stan Lee to come up with a team of superheroes. He presented him with the Fantastic Four and soon Atlas became Marvel Comics. One member of the group, Johnny Storm, appropriated the name and powers of the old Timely hero, The Human Torch. In Fantastic Four issue #4, Lee brought back the Sub-Mariner as a villain. Several fans wrote in suggesting a revival of Captain America , although Lee wasn’t quite sure yet. He did have a soft spot for Cap as his first published piece with the Stan Lee by-line was a text story, “Captain America Foils the Traitor’s Revenge” back in 1941′s Captain America Comics #3. Still being cautious, he decided to feature Captain America on the cover of Strange Tales #114 in a solo story of the new Human Torch. By the end of the tale, Johnny Storm learned that this Cap was an imposter-it was an old enemy, the Acrobat! In the final panel, Lee asked readers if they’d like to see Captain America return. His office was hit by an avalanche of mail. Cap would return, but how would he become a part of this new Marvel age of comics in 1964?

Marvel tests the waters for Cap's return.

The real Cap came back in The Avengers issue #4 ” Captain America Joins the Avengers”. Stan Lee had decided that the Cap stories after the end of World War II did not exist. In the story the Avengers ( Iron Man, Thor, Giant-Man, and the Wasp ) are returning to New York in their underwater transport craft after doing battle with the Incredible Hulk and the Sub-Mariner in the previous issue. Peering through a glass portal, they spot a man floating in the icy waters of the North Atlantic. Giant-Man opens the escape hatch, reaches up, and pulls the nearly lifeless body into the craft. The Wasp is the first to recognize him as the legendary hero. Cap suddenly bolts upright, screaming, “Bucky! Bucky! Look Out!”. Seems that in the last days of the war, Cap and Bucky leaped onto to a flying drone plane full of explosives. Realizing that the plane is seconds from blowing up, Cap drops from the craft and calls for Bucky to do the same. But he is too late. As Cap plunges down into the icy water he sees the drone plane explode. Since that incident he’s been frozen , floating in suspended animation. He’s not aged a day in the past twenty years. After a brief dust up with the other heroes ( a typical Marvel misunderstanding ), Cap saves them from an alien threat and is invited to join the Avengers. He would become a mainstay of the book during the 60′s , and after the departure of the first heroes in issue #16 Cap would be the leader of the new members (  former villains Hawkeye, the Scarlet Witch, and Quicksilver ).

The real deal is back!

The response to Captain America’s return had Marvel thinking about giving him his own book. At that time the distributor Independent News  limited the number of titles Marvel could produce. Many of the heroes shared books that used it’s  titles from the sci-fi/ mystery books of the Atlas era. Tales to Astonish features the Incredible Hulk and Ant-Man/Giant-Man with the Wasp ( Sub-Mariner would later share the book with the Hulk). Strange Tales had Dr. Strange ( of course ) and the Human Torch ( soon replaced by Nick Fury, Agent  of SHIELD ). It was decided that Cap would share Tales of Suspense ( starting with issue #59 ) with his Avengers team mate Iron Man. Luckily  Cap’s co-creator Jack Kirby was on hand to draw up most of these ten page stories. Kirby had ended up back with  Timely ( now Marvel ) after ending his partnership with Joe Simon. When he returned he became one of the prime artists on the many books featuring giant creatures on the loose. After Stan Lee came up with the Fantastic Four, Kirby was the one who helped visualize them. He designed the look for most of the growing stable of stars ( although Steve Ditko would be that art force behind Spider-Man and Dr. Strange ). The Captain America stories were a showcase for Kirby’s incredible battle sequences. It’s amazing how much action he could pack in those ten pages. With issue #63 the series focused on Cap and Bucky’s wartime adventures. Cap was back in his glory days alongside the man who drew him in those early stories. The Red Skull was also brought into the Marvel age. Later it was revealed that the Skull had also been in suspended animation for the past two decades thanks to an experimental gas. Several other artist contributed to these short stories including George Tuska, John Romita, Dick Ayers, and Gil Kane.

Captain America returned to comic books just in time for the superhero explosion of 1966 ( thanks to the Batman TV show ). His smiling image appeared on countless toys. Cap got his own board game from Milton Bradley. Aurora, the company behind the classic movie monster models , produced a Captain America plastic model kit along with his Marvel co-stars Spider-Man and the Incredible Hulk. And of course, Cap was a popular  Ben Cooper Halloween costume, One of the best remembered toys of this era was an action figure ( not a doll ) called  Captain Action from Ideal. Similar in size to Hasbro’s GI Joe, Captain Action could be dressed up as different comic book and comic strip heroes (as opposed to Joe who could be dressed in different military outfits). Captain America was in the first wave of outfits produced along with another Marvel star Sgt. Fury ( Spider-Man would soon join them). Cap was also on a View Master reel and a coloring book featuring art from a John Romita story.  Cap , along with Spider-Man, seemed to be the most merchandized of the Marvel heroes.

For a brief time Captain America entered the world of paperback novels. In 1967 Bantam Books released “The Avengers Battle the Earth Wrecker”  by Otto Binder featuring Cap on the cover alongside Goliath, Hawkeye, Quicksiver, and the Scarlet Witch. Inside they fought, with some help from Iron Man, the outer space menace known as Karzz. The next year Bantam released a solo book, “Captain America: The Great Gold Steal “ by Ted White. This paperback sports a gorgeous, full- color, painting of our hero( with shield in one hand and toting some sort of blaster gun in the other). Both books featured introductions by Stan Lee. Eleven years later Marvel would team up with pocket books for a series of paperbacks based on their heroes.  Marvel Novel Series #4 features Cap in “Holocaust For Hire” by Joseph Silva.  Marvel Novel series #10 has Cap along with the Avengers in “The Man Who Stole Tomorrow” by David Michelinie. Both books had great painted covers by Dave Cockrum. Almost twenty years later another Cap novel was released: “Captain America: Liberty’s Torch” by Tony Isabella and Bob Ingersoll. This had interior black and white illustrations by Mike Zeck and Bob McLeod and a shiny color cover by James Steranko.

The first Cap paperback novel.

Superheroes dominated children’s TV in 1966, so it was no surprise when Marvel entered animation. The Grantray-Lawrence Productions syndicated ” The Marvel Superheroes” cartoon shows to local TV stations across the country. Each half hour episode featured one of five heroes: Iron Man, The Mighty Thor, Sub-Mariner, The Incredible Hulk, or Captain America. To call them animated is a bit of a stretch. The animators Xeroxed the proof art from the books and would eliminate a limb that needed to move, say an arm or leg and then just animate that part. The mouths moved to the recorded dialogue and the eyes blinked. Besides an occasional sound effect word ( POW! ZONK! ), that’s all the movement there would be. Because some of the other characters had been at Marvel a bit longer, several Avengers stories were adapted for the Captain America episodes. These cartoons were a fixture on “Corky’s Colorama” that aired On KSDK channel 5 in the St. Louis area. In the early eighties Cap made some appearances on “Spider-Man and His Amazing Friends” on NBC Saturday mornings. Later he made guest spots on the Fox Kids show “The Avengers” and on Kids WB’s “X-Men Evolution”. Currently Cap is featured on Cartoon Network’s “The Super Hero Squad” and ” The Avengers: Earth’s Mightiest Heroes” on the DisneyXD cable network.

Back at the comic book rack, in 1968 Marvel reached an agreement with their distributor Independent News and was able to expand their line. The first two characters to get their solo books were The Incredible Hulk and Cap. With issue #100 Tales of Suspense became Captain America. The first few issues became a showcase for Jack Kirby’s talents. James Steranko (the wonder behind Nick Fury, Agent of SHIELD) took over the penciling duties in issues #110, 111, and #113 and created an epic adventure where Cap and Rick Jones (garbed as Bucky) battled the evil organization HYDRA. At the end, Cap had faked his death and walked off into the night alone. The series then began to really explore Stan Lee’s take on Cap as a man out of his time, still wracked with guilt over Bucky’s death. He began to question his ideals and his faith in the government. Kirby did not return to the book so several artists took over such as John Buscema, John Romita, Gil Kane, and Gene Colan ( who stayed for several issues). Cap got an new partner, Sam Wilson AKA The Falcon in issue #118. The Falcon was one of the first black heroes that Marvel introduced in the 70′s. Cap tackled a Watergate-style conspiracy and discovered the truth about his 1953 incarnation in stories drawn by Sal Buscema. Jack Kirby returned to write and draw the book in the late 70′s followed by comic strip artist Frank Robbins. In the mid 70′s Roy Thomas created a new book, “The Invaders” which had Cap teaming up with The Sub-Mariner and the original Human Torch during World War II. In the 1980′s writer Roger Stern and artist John Bryne had Cap become a working artist, get a new girlfriend (Bernie Rosenthal), and ponder a run for the White House. They also revealed a great new villain- Baron Blood, a Nazi vampire! Cap would soon be part of the Secret Wars and then be revamped by Rob Liefeld in 1996′s “Heroes Reborn” universe. This occurred a couple years after Cap’s appearances in the epic mini-series “Marvels” written by Kurt Busiek and beautifully painted by Alex Ross. A version of Cap appears in the Ultimate Universe line in a more military uniform without his mask wings.

Cap finally gets his own book in the late 1960's!

Through this time Cap was brought to small screens in two made for TV live action movies produced by Universal and airing on CBS. In the late 70′s Universal Studios optioned several Marvel characters for potential TV movies and series. The first one was “The Incredible Hulk” which birthed a very successful TV series starring Bill Bixby. A Dr. Strange movie starring Peter Hooten aired in 1978. The next year” Captain America” aired on CBS starring Reb Brown ( UNCOMMON VALOR ) as Steve Rogers, the son of the original Cap. He’s recruited by a secret government agency to take the serum dubbed FLAG that had given his dad enhanced abilities. By the end of the film he gets a special suped-up motorcycle, a bulletproof shield ( that has red and clear stripes ), and a star spangled uniform. But not the one from the comics! His suit looks more like the Fighting American uniform that the comic book threads! The following year the suit in “Captain America II: Death Too Soon” was closer to the comic classic, but this did not help it get picked up as a series despite having the lovely Connie Sellica and horror movie icon Christopher Lee as the villain.

Reb Brown in the first Cap CBS TV movie!

Cap continued to be merchandised through the years. He was part of Mego’s action figure superhero line in the 70′s. Mattel put out a Secret Wars Cap figure. For the last few years Toy Biz has issued many different versions of Cap. He’s also been a star in video games with the Captain America and The Avengers arcade game from the 90′s. Cap has also been a part of several Marvel themed games for home video gaming systems.

In the late 1980′s Cap finally was poised to hit the movie screens again. For many years Cannon Films had taken out trade ads announcing their intention to star Cap in a live action feature film. In 1989 Menachem Golan split from the studio and began work ( perhaps prompted by the blockbuster 1989 Batman film )on making a Cap film for his new company 21^stCentury Film Corporation. The 12 million dollar production would be directed by Albert Pyun and shoot in Yugoslavia, LA, and Alaska. The cast included Ronny Cox ( as the US president ), Ned Beatty, Melinda Dillon, and Michael Nouri. Starring as Steve Rogers would be screen newcomer Matt Salinger ( son of author J.D. ). The Italian mastermind The Red Skull is played by Scott Paulin ( THE RIGHT STUFF, TEEN WOLF ). Yes, that’s right! Italian! It’s been speculated that the film’s German investors might have prompted that change. At least the movie gets a few things right. It begins in World War II. The shield and the suit look right- it’s rubber latex with fake ears attached to the mask. Oh, the doctor behind the  “super soldier program” is Italian, too. And a woman. Cap is strapped to a missile after being defeated by the Skull as Mussolini (!) looks on. The missile crashes into the arctic where Cap is discovered decades later, frozen in ice. He thaws and spends the rest of the film being pursued by US agents and the Skull’s henchmen. The movie could not get an American distributor and sat on the shelf for two years till it was released directly to the US home video market in 1992. It often pops up on cable TV. There was talk of a Captain America Broadway musical, but for now it seemed like there would never be another big screen film based on the character.

Matt Salinger in the 1990 straight to home video Cap movie.

In the last few years Captain America is still a big seller at comic shops ( no news stands and candy shops anymore ). Cap was a major player in the Civil Wars mini-series and made some news reports a few years back when he was assassinated by a sniper. There were attempts to fill the uniform with Hawkeye and a resurrected Bucky ( now known as Winter Solider-seems he was in suspended animation too). Of course most comics characters don’t stay dead too long and soon Steve Rogers was back in uniform, perhaps just in time for some major event.

Oh yes, just in time for July 22. That’s the date that CAPTAIN AMERICA: THE FIRST AVENGER opens at movie theatres all across the country. A few years back Marvel decided to produce movies on their own based on several of their own characters not licensed out to other film studios. They entered into an agreement with Paramount Pictures and the first of the Marvel Studios films, IRON MAN was released to great accolades and big box office in 2008. IRON MAN 2 followed in 2010 and THOR hit theatres this past May. In this new Cap film Chris Evans ( Johnny Storm in the two Fantastic Four films) stars as Steve Rogers and Hugo Weaving ( of the Matrix trilogy) is Johann Scmidt AKA The Red Skull. Stanley Tucci is Dr. Erskine, the mind behind the “supersoldier” formula and is assisted by Dominic Cooper as Howard Stark ( Tony’s dad). Hayley Atwell is soldier and love interest Peggy Carter and Oscar winner Tommy Lee Jones is Col. Chester Phillips. From the previews it appears that Cap leads the Howling Commandos headed by Neal McDonough as ‘Dum Dum’ Dugan and Sebastian Stan as James ‘Bucky’ Barnes, so we know it’s primarily set in the 40′s. The film is written by Christopher Markus and Stephen McFeely and directed by Joe Johnson -no stranger to comic book based films as he also directed 1991′s THE ROCKETEER. It looks as though The Red Skull discovers the Cosmic Cube (introduced at the end of THOR ) and leads the forces of HYDRA going by the photos and previews. No other details of the plot have been released, but we do know that Captain America will be part of THE AVENGERS when the film is released through Disney to theatres next Summer.

So maybe a whole new generation will be introduced to the exploits of the good Captain in the multiplexes over the next few months. Perhaps will see some tykes grabbing a garbage can lid and leaping into battle against the forces of evil. We may even hear a few bars of that great cartoon theme song with lyrics by Stan ‘the man’ Lee:

When Captain America throws his mighty shield,

All those who chose to oppose his shield must yield,

When he’s lead to a fight

And a duel is due

Then the red and the white and the blue will come through,

When Captain America throws his mighty shield!

Alright you Marvel movie maniacs! I hope these new pics and videos will help you endure the next few days till we can hit the multiplexes and enjoy the big screen treatment our favorite shield-slingin’ hero has deserved since he was introduced seventy years ago! First up it looks like the bad guys have the upper hand on Cap. Enjoy it while you can, Hydra!

Photos Credit: CAPTAIN AMERICA: THE FIRST AVENGER, from Paramount Pictures and Marvel Entertainment. Paramount Pictures/Marvel Studios (c) 2011 MVLFFLLC. ™ & (c) 2011 Marvel. All Rights Reserved.

Nice shot of the uniform. No doubt Cap’s infiltrated Hydra’s HQ.

Cap behind the wheel of his motorcycle. First time I’ve seen the small star on his upper arm. Very similar to the Ultimate Universe suit.

Looks like we’re on one of the snow covered mountains seen in the trailers.

Lovely shot of Hayley Atwell as Peggy Carter.

And an even lovelier shot of Ms Atwell. First time I’ve seen here in her out of her brown military uniform. As they said back in the forties, ” Hubba! Hubba!”. Note the poster behind her showing Cap in the suit based on Timely’s Captain America Comics #1.

I wonder if this is the first time that Cap meets James ‘Bucky’ Barnes, played by Sebastian Shaw.

This looks to be shortly after Cap’s first public appearance, judging by the bright red boots and blue theatrical tights. Is he keeping a journal?

Lovely shot of Cap on a night mission. Is that a Hydra convoy?

Steve Rodgers ( Chris Evans ) looks just as sharp in military browns as he does in red,white, and blue.

Howard Stark ( Dominic Cooper )presents Steve with the circular unpainted shield fashioned from a new indestructible metal. Notice the first triangle-style shield in the foreground.

Here’s Steve enduring another of the many injections that are part of the Super Soldier project.

Perhaps Steve is watching newsreel war footage that inspires him to enlist.

I’m guessing that Steve’s run into an old acquaintance at a recruiting center.

And finally here’s Steve in training mode prior to the work at the lab.

Check out these new clips and featurette from the film:

“Grenade”

“Rebirth”

“Shield Intro”

“Shield Fight”

“Meet Captain America Featurette”

See you at the movies this Friday. To paraphrase the rallying  cry from The Invaders comic book series, ” Look out Axis, here he comes!”. Keep em’ flying!

Synopsis:

Captain America: The First Avenger will focus on the early days of the Marvel Universe when Steve Rogers (Chris Evans) volunteers to participate in an experimental program that turns him into the Super Soldier known as Captain America. As Captain America, Rogers joins forces with Bucky Barnes (Sebastian Stan) and Peggy Carter (Hayley Atwell) to wage war on the evil HYDRA organization, led by the villainous Red Skull (Hugo Weaving.)

Directed by Joe Johnston and starring Chris Evans, Tommy Lee Jones, Hugo Weaving, Hayley Atwell, Sebastian Stan, Dominic Cooper, Toby Jones, Neal McDonough, Derek Luke, and Stanley Tucci, CAPTAIN AMERICA: THE FIRST AVENGER will be in theaters July 22, 2011.

One of a continuing slate of films being produced by Marvel Studios based on the Marvel characters, Captain America: The First Avenger joined Thor on May 6, 2011 and The Avengers on May 4, 2012. Visit the film’s official site here and on Facebook

The other day I was thinking the concept of a movie prequel was a fairly new notion. I suppose it was George Lucas who really promoted that idea with his first trilogy in 1999 with STAR WARS: THE PHANTOM MENACE. But as I thought about it, movie prequels have been around for a while. Back in the 30′s and 40′s they were made to delve into the backgrounds of historical figures as in YOUNG TOM EDISON and YOUNG MR. LINCOLN. In the early 70′s we had BUTCH AND SUNDANCE : THE EARLY YEARS. The 80′s saw YOUNG SHERLOCK HOLMES, and INDIANA JONES AND THE TEMPLE OF DOOM ( which technically is a prequel to RAIDERS OF THE LOST ARK as it is set a couple of years earlier ). The post Star Wars first trilogy prequels have been used as a way to restart or reboot an aging franchise. In that way CASINO ROYAL was a Bond restart. Sometimes this re-inveigorates the series with fresh blood as J.J. Abrams did with STAR TREK  in 2009. This has been done again with Matthew Vaughn’s X- MEN: FIRST CLASS.   A film series that limped through two lackluster sequels and a spin-off (  X- MEN ORIGINS: WOLVERINE ) now seems fresh and exciting once again.

The first X- Men movie was set in 2000, so to see how the group was first formed we’ve got to go back to the swingin’ 60′s.  That is after a brief stop in the 1940′s and World War II. The memory of young Erik Lehnsherr being separated from his parents at a Nazi concentration camp in occupied Poland is replayed. This time his gifts are observed by a Nazi scientist. Back in upstate New York young Charles Xavier comes upon his mother making a midnight snack. He sees through the ruse and meets a kindred spirit: the shape shifting Raven ( later Mystique ). Back at the camp the Nazi scientist ( Sebastian Shaw played by Kevin Bacon ) murders Erik’s mother to pressure the young boy into using his talents. The boy’s fury unleashes his mutant magnetism much to Shaw’s delight. Now we leap to the 60′s -1962 to be exact. Charles Xavier ( James McAvoy ) and his adopted sister Raven ( Jennifer Lawrence ) are two star students at Oxford while Erik ( Michael Fassbender ) explores Switzerland and Argentina in his quest for revenge on Shaw. In Las Vegas, CIA agent Moira MacTaggert observes a high ranking US general entering the Hellfire Club ( along with several barely clad female escorts ). Thinking on her feet, Moiria sheds her dress and enters the club as one of the escorts. Inside, the general is taken to a private booth by Emma Frost ( January Jones ). Through a secret entrance they are sent to a private room where Shaw and his two aides Riptide and Azazel greet them. Shaw is paying the general to use his influence to get a missile base in Turkey. Later Moira enlists Charles and Raven in an assault on Shaw’s yacht. There they meet Erik, who is thwarted in his attempt to kill Shaw. Reluctantly Erik agrees to join them in their quest to stop Shaw and his crew. Since Shaw, Frost, Riptide, and Azazel all have mutant abilities, Charles uses a device called Cerebro created by the CIA’sresident genius Hank McCoy ( Nicholas Hoult )  to seek other gifted individuals. Can this young team stop Shaw in his quest for a nuclear nightmare?

Director Vaughn is no stranger to this material ( after helming the comic book-based  KICK-ASS ) and keeps the plot moving at a great clip. The film could use a few minutes trimmed from it’s 2 and a 1/4 hour running time, but it  never seems to slow for too long-unlike some other Summer actioners ( I’m looking at you, Capt. Jack! ). The film makers do a fairly good job of re-creating the look of the 60′s in the sets, fashions, and autos. I have to nit-pick over some of the hairstyles. A Russian general would never have hair over his back collar. Speaking of 60′s fashion, January Jones is no stranger to them as part of TV’s Mad Men. Her Emma Frost is almost Betty Draper with super powers. Scary thought! McAvoy exudes intelligence and even has a bit of fun with the later stodgy Professor X. Love his groovy mutant pick-up line! Michael Fassbender brings a sinister, sexy energy to his future super villain,Magneto. Jennifer Lawrence shows that her WINTER’S BONE performance was the start of a great screen career with her conflicted Raven. My favorite of the original X-Men was the Beast and Hoult really nails his portrait of the clumsy braniac who desperately wants to fit in. I was a bit conflicted over Kevin Bacon. I wasn’t sure if he was right for this ruthless, evil mutant, but he uses his charm to great advantage when wheeling and dealing. I’ll give you a heads up-there’s no post end credits bonus scene on this superhero flick. Oh, and I’ve got to give special kudos to the producers for not giving in to greed and releasing this in 3D. Excelsior! Now I don’t want to spoil any surprises, so I’ll just tell you to hold off on a rest room or snack run when the Cerebro sequence begins. After THOR and this movie, it’s turning out to be a great superhero Summer. I’d say Marvel is two for two, but this film is not produced by Marvel Studios as was THOR, the Iron Man movies, and the upcoming CAPTAIN AMERICA: THE FIRST AVENGER. This a great popcorn picture with a bit of a social message snuck in between the fantastic stunts and effects.

Overall Rating: 4.5 out of 5 stars

Face front, True Believers! According to our calenders, officially  the first day of Summer is June 21, but movie Summer really starts with the first weekend in May ( sorry FAST FIVE ) especially with the release of a big comic book superhero movie. For the last few years this has featured a hero from the fabled House of Ideas-Marvel. With 2008′s IRON MAN the comic company has been producing their film properties through Marvel Studios ( along with Paramount ). After two Iron Man movie adventures the studio is now tackling another Marvel hero. While Tony Stark was thought of as a second tier character, this big guy has been one of their comic superstars since his introduction in 1962′s Journey Into Mystery number 83-the mighty Thor. The Norse god had primarily been adapted in animation. First in the ( very ) limited animation TV series The Marvel Superheroes by Gantry Lawrence in 1966. He later made appearances on Spider-Man and His Amazing Friends and most recently on the Superhero Squad and Marvel Avengers: Earth’s Mightiest Heroes. The only live action attempt was in the 1988 made-for TV movie The Incredible Hulk Returns. In that a former student of David Banner, Donald Blake, was able to channel and materialize an ancient warrior through a battle hammer. This Thor was a viking party animal interested in carousing with very little in common with the comic book character. Growing up, reading of his exploits I didn’t think this updated Norse mythology could be translated to a big live action big screen epic. Like Jon Favreau with Iron Man, an actor has stepped behind the camera to guide him to the muti-plexes : Kenneth Branagh. Would he be able to go from Shakespeare to Stan”the man’ Lee and Jack ‘king’ Kirby. After viewing the end result, THOR, I can only say, “Excelsior!”

This Norse mythology saga starts, oddly enough, in the deserts of New Mexico, USA. A van containing researchers Jane Foster ( Natalie Portman ), Darcy Lewis ( Kat Dennings ), and Dr. Erik Selvig (Stellan Skarsgard ) races through the night in order to take readings of the strange atmospheric disturbances. Suddenly the dark skies open and a weird light shines on the desert floor. Driving to the spot, they bump against something-a man. The film then goes back many hundreds of years to a primitive Norwegian village suddenly under attack by the fearsome Frost Giants. Soon a bursting bright light sets forth hundreds of viking warriors to the rescue. They are Asgardians lead by their king, Odin ( Anthony Hopkins ). After a brutal battle ( Odin loses his right eye ), Asgard prevails and Odin takes the Frost Giants’ power source the Casket of Ancient Winters. The years pass. Odin and his beautiful wife Frigga ( Rene Russo ) raise two sons: Thor and Loki. Reaching adulthood, Thor ( Chris Hemsworth ) is chosen by Odin to secede him as king/ ruler of Asgard. The ceremony is interrupted by Frost Giants who attempt to retrieve the casket, until they are thwarted by an enchanted walking armored weapon, the Destroyer. Going against his father’s wishes, Thor along with his brother Loki ( Tom Hiddleston ) and friends the Lady Sif ( Jamie Alexander ) and the Warriors Three: Hogun  ( Tadanobu Asano ), Fandral ( Joshua Dallas ), and Volstagg ( Ray Stevenson ) get the Rainbow Bridge’s guardian Heimdall ( Idris Elba ) to open the portal/ wormhole to the Front Giants’ world of Jotunheim. The fight is stopped when Odin and his guards arrive to take the Asgardians back home. After a heated argument Odin strips Thor of his powers and send him to Earth. Casting a spell on his hammer, Odin sends it to Earth as well. And so we’re caught up as Thor is taken to a hospital by the research team. After he’s released the scientists take him in, although Selvig believes him to be delusional. Meanwhile the hammer’s arrival has attracted many locals who attempt to free it from a rock that where it is embedded. But it can only be retrieved and used by someone worthy of the power of Thor. The hammer has also attracted Agent Phil Coulson ( Clark Gregg reprising his role from the Iron Man films ) and the forces of S.H.IE.L.D., who set up operations around it. Back in Asgard, Odin collapses after an altercation with Loki. The aged ruler is taken to the healing room where he enters the Odin-sleep ( an almost comatose state). Loki assumes the throne. Can he make Thor’s banishment permanent? Will Thor be able to retrieve his hammer and regain his powers? And what will happen to his friends back in Asgard? And what of his new friends on Earth- especially the lovely Ms. Foster?

This all makes for a whole lot of fun at the movies. It turns out that Branagh’s an excellent match for this material. The royal family intrigue is very similar to much of Shakespeare’s work. He also handles the many action scenes with skill as we see this magical hammer in action. Bo Welch does an admirable job of emulating Jack Kirby’s spiralling, shining castles and towers in Asgard. While Krypton has been portrayed in the recent Superman films as jutting, icy stalagmite towers, Thor’s home has a warm golden glow. Relative newcomer Hemsworth does a great job of anchoring the film. He makes Thor’s journey from arrogant brawler to humble, compassionate hero very compelling. If Lawrence Oliver could be the Greek god Zeus in the original CLASH OF THE TITANS, then who better to play his Norse counterpart Odin than Hopkins ( now that Sean Connery’s retired ). And a big welcome back to Ms. Russo in her first movie in over five years.You’ve been missed . I look forward to seeing  you fighting side by side with Hopkins in future adventures. Hiddleston’s a great conniving plotter as the duplicitous Loki. Kudos to the rest of Thor’s Asgardian friends particularly Alexander and Dallas who look like they stepped right out of the comics along with Stevenson ( PUNISHER: WAR ZONE ) as ( the not so-voluminous ) Vostagg and Elba as the imposing Heimdall. On Earth, Denning provides great comic relief as Darcy while Skarsgard brings scholarly gravitas and humor to Dr. Selvig. Portman’s believable as the compassionate scientist, but stumbles a bit while almost swooning over the hunky heroin several scenes. As in previous films, Gregg is a treat as the all-business ( but very funny ) government agent. As mentioned on this sight, another Marvel character makes an appearance here.  And of course like the Iron Man films, be sure to stick around through the end credits for a bonus scene that sets the wheels in place for a future film. I’ve only a couple problems with the film. The switch between Earth and Asgard can be abrupt. The scenes of Loki’s treachery sometimes stop the momentum of Thor’s New Mexico saga. Also the ending does evoke the conclusions of THE EMPIRE STRIKES BACK and the first Spider-Man film. And of course there’s the old 3D situation. Thor was not shot in 3D ( there’s not even a shot of the hammer zooming toward the camera ), so the scene set on the Frost Giant world is very dark and murky. I hope to catch it again in good ole 2D. So, how does this stack up against the other Marvel movies? Well, with SPIDER-MAN 2 being the sublime and ELEKTRA on the other end of the spectrum , I’d place this in the top third, right between the first Iron Man and the Ed Norton Incredible Hulk. Just think only a few weeks till we re-visit those X-Men and a few weeks after that we’ll cheer on that  shield slingin’ first Avenger. This bodes well for a great movie Summer. For Asgard!

Overall Rating: Four and a Half Out of Five Stars

Director Joss Whedon announced yesterday on the blog Whedonesque.com that shooting on the long awaited AVENGERS film will begin today! (hat-tip Collider)

Hi Pumpkins, joss here.

Tomorrow we start shooting (I THINK I’m legally permitted to say that). Day one. That’s right. We’ll be shooting the pivotal death/betrayal/product placement/setting up the sequel/coming out scene, at the following address:

[Marvel Lawyers rush in, take Joss's keyboard, blowtorch a picture of his family like in "Stormy Monday", drink his milkshake, leave the seat up, fluff his pillows, violently unfluff his pillows, leave]

Went too far. My bad. Anyhoo, it should be a fun day, followed by the eighty thousand other fun days it will take to finish this. I’ll be checking in from time to time, if there’s news or I crave attention (i.e. am awake). None of it will be Avengers news — I have some very denty pillows to remind of that — but I may have tidbits. (They’re not about Firefly. I should say that up front, if only to protect Sis Mo from the HATORZ.)

Some of you may be saying, Joss! Why this link, here, now, why, huh, howcum? My friend Allyx turned me on to these guys, and I’ll tell you, they’ve gotten me through this intensely pressurized, preply time. I strongly recommend checking out their other vids — I’ve watched them many many times, and I have a very special place for “Teamwork” in my heart. These guys are the guys. And IS there a better movie title than “Eagles Are Turning People Into Horses”? I thought not.

So wish me luck. DO IT! LUCK! NOW! I’m off to finish some Buffy pages, and then figure out what the movie is about already. I’m pretty sure it’s about the Justice League [Marvel Lawyers re-enter, unspeakability occurs] or possibly something else. I’ll get it. I’ve been looking forward to this. For about 46 years.

Catchphrase!

-j.

In case you missed it, here’s another look at the teaser, complete with Samuel L. Jackson voiceover, for THE AVENGERS.

THE AVENGERS. Earth’s mightiest heroes, including Iron Man, Captain America, Thor and the Hulk unite in this motion picture adventure from Marvel Studios. Directed by Joss Whedon and starring Robert Downey, Jr., Chris Evans, Chris Hemsworth, Samuel L. Jackson, Scarlett Johansson, Mark Ruffalo, Jeremy Renner and Clark Gregg!

Starring:
Robert Downey Jr. – Tony Stark/ Iron Man
Chris Evans – Steve Rogers/ Captain America
Chris Hemsworth – Thor
Mark Ruffalo – Dr. Bruce Banner/ The Incredible Hulk
Jeremy Renner – Clint Barton/ Hawkeye
Scarlett Johansson- Black Widow
Clark Gregg – Agent Phil Coulson
Samuel L Jackson – Nick Fury

From Marvel Studios and Disney, look for THE AVENGERS in theaters on May 4, 2012.

Warner Bros. Pictures has released these new stills from GREEN LANTERN as part of their 2011 Summer Preview. All together now…

In brightest day, in blackest night,
No evil shall escape my sight
Let those who worship evil’s might,
Beware my power… Green Lantern’s light!

(L-r) RYAN REYNOLDS as Green Lantern and Tomar-Re, voiced by GEOFFREY RUSH.

Director: Martin Campbell
Writers: Greg Berlanti & Michael Green & Marc Guggenheim and Michael Goldenberg
Story by Greg Berlanti & Michael Green & Marc Guggenheim
Based upon characters appearing in comic books published by DC Comics
Producers: Donald De Line, Greg Berlanti
Executive Producers: Herbert W. Gains, Andrew Haas

(L-r) RYAN REYNOLDS as Green Lantern and Tomar-Re, voiced by GEOFFREY RUSH, in a scene from Warner Bros. Pictures action adventure GREEN LANTERN.

Synopsis:

Action Adventure. In a universe as vast as it is mysterious, a small but powerful force has existed for centuries. Protectors of peace and justice, they are called the Green Lantern Corps. A brotherhood of warriors sworn to keep intergalactic order, each Green Lantern wears a ring that grants him superpowers. But when a new enemy called Parallax threatens to destroy the balance of power in the Universe, their fate and the fate of Earth lie in the hands of their newest recruit, the first human ever selected: Hal Jordan (Ryan Reynolds). Hal is a gifted and cocky test pilot, but the Green Lanterns have little respect for humans, who have never harnessed the infinite powers of the ring before. But Hal is clearly the missing piece to the puzzle, and along with his determination and willpower, he has one thing no member of the Corps has ever had: humanity. With the encouragement of fellow pilot and childhood sweetheart Carol Ferris (Blake Lively), if Hal can quickly master his new powers and find the courage to overcome his fears, he may prove to be not only the key to defeating Parallax…he will become the greatest Green Lantern of all.

Cast: Ryan Reynolds, Blake Lively, Peter Sarsgaard, Mark Strong, Angela Bassett, Tim Robbins, Temuera Morrison, Jay O. Sanders, Taika Waititi, Jon Tenney

The film will open in 3D and 2D on June 17, 2011. GREEN LANTERN will be distributed worldwide by Warner Bros. Pictures, a Warner Bros. Entertainment Company.

Visit the film’s official site here and on Facebook here.

BURBANK, CA, April 19, 2011 — Warner Bros. Pictures announced today that Oscar® winner Marion Cotillard (“La Vie en Rose”) and Joseph Gordon-Levitt have joined the cast of “The Dark Knight Rises,” the epic conclusion to the Dark Knight legend.

Cotillard will appear as Miranda Tate, a Wayne Enterprises board member eager to help a still-grieving Bruce Wayne resume his father’s philanthropic endeavors for Gotham.

Gordon-Levitt will play John Blake, a Gotham City beat cop assigned to special duty under the command of Commissioner Gordon.

The film reunites the actors with Christopher Nolan, who recently directed them in the award-winning blockbuster “Inception.”

The director stated, “When you collaborate with people as talented as Marion and Joe, it comes as no surprise that you would want to repeat the experience. I immediately thought of them for the roles of Miranda and Blake, and I am looking forward to working with both of them again.”

Heading the cast of “The Dark Knight Rises,” Christian Bale stars as Bruce Wayne/Batman. The main cast also includes Anne Hathaway as Selina Kyle and Tom Hardy as Bane.

Nolan will direct the film from a screenplay he wrote with Jonathan Nolan, from a story by Christopher Nolan and David S. Goyer. Christopher Nolan will also produce the film with his longtime producing partner, Emma Thomas, and Charles Roven.

“The Dark Knight Rises” is slated for release on July 20, 2012. The film will be distributed worldwide by Warner Bros. Pictures, a Warner Bros. Entertainment Company.

Here’s the latest image from X-MEN: FIRST CLASS featuring Michael Fassbender & James McAvoy! Submit questions for the cast and filmmakers of X-Men: First Class now in the Facebook X-Perts tab HERE

Synopsis:

X-MEN FIRST CLASS charts the epic beginning of the X-Men saga, and reveals a secret history of famous global events. Before mutants had revealed themselves to the world, and before Charles Xavier and Erik Lehnsherr took the names Professor X and Magneto, they were two young men discovering their powers for the first time. Not archenemies, they were instead at first the closest of friends, working together with other Mutants (some familiar, some new), to prevent nuclear Armageddon. In the process, a grave rift between them opened, which began the eternal war between Magneto’s Brotherhood and Professor X’s X-Men.

X-MEN FIRST CLASS is directed by Matthew Vaughn (KICK-ASS) and stars James McAvoy, Michael Fassbender, Rose Byrne, January Jones, Oliver Platt, and Kevin Bacon. The story begins on June 3, 2011.

Check out the X-Men Movies Facebook page by clicking HERE to see more. You can also get additional info on the film over at the film’s official site HERE and on Twitter HERE!

On Friday April 15, director/screenwriter James Gunn returned to his hometown of St. Louis to screen his sophomore feature film SUPER. The above photo is from an interview our own Melissa Howland conducted earlier that day with Gunn. SUPER played to a packed auditorium at the beautiful Tivoli theatre at 7 PM that evening. At the film’s conclusion St. Louis Post Dispatch film critic Joe Williams introduced Gunn. After a few opening remarks, Gunn took questions from the audience for close to thirty minutes. He talked about filming in Shreveport, Louisiana during the coldest winter there in recent history. Kudos to Ellen Page for braving the temps while just dressed in her undergarments. Gunn applauded the actors who worked for scale. A couple traveled to the shoot on their own expenses. He revealed that his ex-wife Jenna Fisher was instrumental in getting her TV co-star Rainn Wilson to take the film’s lead role. Gunn introduced his mother and father and joked about directing them as extras in a scene. He then discussed his internet “dust-up” with Roger Ebert after the critic had revealed a major plot spoiler in the opening lines of his review. Gunn had high praises for his film’s distributors who released the film unrated. He believes the stigma of unrated films no longer exists. Then he revealed that his next big screen release will be a seven minute segment starring Josh Duhamel and Elizabeth Banks in the Farrelly Brothers production of MOVIE 43. Thanks again to the Tivoli for a great evening  with James Gunn.

BURBANK, CA, April 10, 2011 – Warner Bros. Pictures and Legendary Pictures announced today that Michael Shannon will star in the role of General Zod in director Zack Snyder’s new Superman film, titled MAN OF STEEL.

Snyder stated, “Zod is not only one of Superman’s most formidable enemies, but one of the most significant because he has insights into Superman that others don’t. Michael is a powerful actor who can project both the intelligence and the malice of the character, making him perfect for the role.”

As General Zod, Shannon will go toe-to-toe with Henry Cavill, who plays the new Clark Kent/Superman in the film. The main cast also includes Amy Adams as Lois Lane, and Diane Lane and Kevin Costner as Martha and Jonathan Kent.

Michael Shannon was honored with an Academy Award® nomination for Best Supporting Actor for his role in Sam Mendes’ “Revolutionary Road,” with Leonardo DiCaprio and Kate Winslet. Shannon was most recently seen in the award-winning HBO drama series “Boardwalk Empire,” from executive producer Martin Scorsese. He will next be seen in Sony Pictures Classics’, “Take Shelter,” from director/writer Jeff Nichols.

Charles Roven, Emma Thomas, Christopher Nolan and Deborah Snyder are the producers of the film. The screenplay is being written by David S. Goyer based on a story by Goyer and Nolan. Thomas Tull and Lloyd Phillips are serving as executive producers.

MAN OF STEEL will be distributed worldwide by Warner Bros. Pictures, a Warner Bros. Entertainment Company.

Source: Warner Bros.

All I can say is “Kneel Before Zod” had better show up somewhere in the new version.

Paramount Pictures has released these new clips and a new making-of featurette from the upcoming THOR due in theaters May 6th.

“You’re Big” Clip

“How Dare You” Clip: Jane (Natalie Portman) checks Thor (Chris Hemsworth) into a hospital, and when he wakes he goes on a rampage. (via Yahoo! Movies)

A behind the scenes look at  THOR – Slurpee Cup Promotion with 7-Eleven and Dr Pepper (via TrailerAddict)

Just for good measure, we added in the most recent “Taser” clip

Synopsis:

Paramount Pictures and Marvel Entertainment present the epic adventure, THOR, which spans the Marvel Universe from present day Earth to the realm of Asgard. At the center of the story is the mighty Thor (Chris Hemsworth), a powerful but arrogant warrior whose reckless actions reignite an ancient war. Thor is cast down to Earth by his father Odin (Anthony Hopkins) and is forced to live among humans. A beautiful, young scientist, Jane Foster (Natalie Portman), has a profound effect on Thor, as she ultimately becomes his first love. It’s while here on Earth that Thor learns what it takes to be a true hero when the most dangerous villain of his world sends the darkest forces of Asgard to invade Earth.

Directed by Kenneth Branagh, THOR stars Chris Hemsworth, Natalie Portman, Tom Hiddleston, Anthony Hopkins, Rene Russo, Stellan Skarsgard, Jaimie Alexander, Kat Dennings, Ray Stevenson, Josh Dallas, Tadanobu Asano, Idris Elba, Clark Gregg, and Colm Feore. THOR will be in theaters in May 6, 2011.

Visit the film’s official site here and on Facebook.

Trailer

Thor

Loki

Sif

Odin

Jane

Heimdall

Pittsburgh, PA (April 5, 2011) – The Pittsburgh Film Office announced today that Warner Bros. Pictures’ feature film “The Dark Knight Rises”, the conclusion of Christopher Nolan’s Batman trilogy, will be filmed in Pittsburgh during the summer of 2011. The film is slated to open nationwide on July 20, 2012.

“We are thrilled to be welcoming the Batman film to Pittsburgh, and eager for the economic impact that our City will experience,” Pittsburgh Mayor Luke Ravenstahl said. “This is another example of the growing film industry in our community and we will be rolling out the red carpet for them.”

This will be Christopher Nolan’s first film in southwestern Pennsylvania. The filmmaker said he chose Pittsburgh for its great architecture and diversity of locations. “Pittsburgh is a beautiful city.  We have been able to find everything we were looking for here and I am excited to spend the summer in Pittsburgh with our final installment of Batman.”

Dawn Keezer, director of the Pittsburgh Film Office said, “Film production means jobs for Pennsylvanians, it’s as simple as that. A single film can mean millions of dollars and many local jobs. A franchise as prestigious as Batman opens our region up to an entirely new audience as filmmakers and studio executives experience southwestern Pennsylvania.”

The film stars Christian Bale, Anne Hathaway, Tom Hardy and Joseph Gordon-Levitt. Nolan will direct the film from a screenplay he wrote with Jonathan Nolan, from a story by Christopher Nolan and David S. Goyer. Nolan will also produce the film with his longtime producing partner, Emma Thomas, and Charles Roven. The film will be distributed worldwide by Warner Bros. Pictures, a Warner Bros. Entertainment Company.

Check out these new photos from Paramount Pictures’ CAPTAIN AMERICA.

In the above photo we get to see special agent Peggy Carter in action on a 1940′s street corner. Could she be returning fire on an escaping Nazi/Hydra agent that infiltrated the top secret lab that houses “Operation: Rebirth”? Below, we’ve got a nice behind the scene shot of that lab set. Not sure if that’s Joe Johnson talking to the actor playing the pre- “Super Soldier” formula Steve Rogers. Next is another behind the scenes outdoor shot of Carter rising up out of an army jeep. Maybe she spots Cap with the Howling Commandos. The next is a shot we’ve seen before of the Sentinel of Liberty himself, played by Chris Evans, standing in front of a special combat unit. Could they be the men with flame throwers menacing Cap in the trailer? We’ll know more in July, true believers!

In case you missed it, here’s another look at the trailer that debuted last week.

Synopsis:

Captain America: The First Avenger will focus on the early days of the Marvel Universe when Steve Rogers (Chris Evans) volunteers to participate in an experimental program that turns him into the Super Soldier known as Captain America.  As Captain America, Rogers joins forces with Bucky Barnes (Sebastian Stan) and Peggy Carter (Hayley Atwell) to wage war on the evil HYDRA organization, led by the villainous Red Skull (Hugo Weaving.)

CAPTAIN AMERICA: THE FIRST AVENGER

Paramount Pictures and Marvel Entertainment Present
A Marvel Studios Production/A Film by Joe Johnston

Co-Producers - Stephen Broussard, Victoria Alonso
Executive Producers - Alan Fine, Stan Lee, David Maisel, Joe Johnston, Louis D’Esposito, Nigel Gostelow
Produced by Kevin Feige
Screenplay by Christopher Markus & Stephen McFeely
Directed by Joe Johnston

Cast: Chris Evans, Tommy Lee Jones, Hugo Weaving, Hayley Atwell, Sebastian Stan, Dominic Cooper, Toby Jones, Neal McDonough, Derek Luke, and Stanley Tucci.

One of a continuing slate of films being produced by Marvel Studios based on the Marvel characters, Captain America: The First Avenger joins Thor on May 6, 2011 and The Avengers on May 4, 2012. Visit the film’s official site here and on Facebook

Photo credit: Jay Maidment / Marvel Studios. Hugo Weaving plays Red Skull, aka Johann Schmidt, in CAPTAIN AMERICA: THE FIRST AVENGER, from Paramount Pictures and Marvel Entertainment.(c) 2011 MVLFFLLC. TM & (c) 2011 Marvel. All Rights Reserved.

Lots of new things going on with Zack Snyder’s SUPERMAN movie which begins shooting later this summer.

First, THE HERO COMPLEX/LA Times broke the news that three-time Oscar nominee Amy Adams will play journalist Lois Lane. Adams was recently nominated for an Academy Award for her work in David O. Russell’s THE FIGHTER and was previously in JULIE & JULIA, ENCHANTED, NIGHT AT THE MUSEUM: BATTLE OF THE SMITHSONIAN and JUNEBUG.

“There was a big, giant search for Lois,” Snyder said. “For us it was a big thing and obviously a really important role. We did a lot of auditioning but we had this meeting with Amy Adams and after that I just felt she was perfect for it.”

Snyder declined to discuss the precise prominence of Lois in the story or any plot details about the film but he said the role is “a linchpin” to the project and that he considers it essential that Lois – a Roosevelt-era creation – arrives on screen in 2012 with contemporary appeal and spirit.

“It goes back to what I’ve said about Superman and making him really understandable for today. What’s important to us is making him relebant and real and making him empathetic to today’s audience so that we understand the decisions he makes. That applies to Lois as well. She has to be in the same universe as him [in tone and substance].”

Adams will star alongside Jason Segel in THE MUPPETS movie from Walt Disney Studios on November 23rd. As was recently announced, Kevin Costner will play Jonathan Kent, Diane Lane will play his wife, Martha Kent and the film’s star, Henry Cavill, will play the new Clark Kent/Superman.

Second, Production Weekly posted on their site a preview of the latest films in the works. Most notably among today’s list is:

“Superman: The Man Of Steel” (aka “Autumn Frost”)

Very interesting. What are your thoughts on today’s SUPERMAN developments? Are you looking forward to the movie?

Slated for release in December 2012, the new Superman movie will be distributed worldwide by Warner Bros. Pictures, a Warner Bros. Entertainment Company.

Charles Roven, Emma Thomas, Christopher Nolan and Deborah Snyder are the producers of the film. The screenplay is being written by David S. Goyer based on a story by Goyer and Nolan. Thomas Tull and Lloyd Phillips are serving as executive producers.

Have a look at the first official trailer for CAPTAIN AMERICA from Paramount Pictures and Marvel Studios.

Like how they teased us with just a glimpse of Red Skull. Very pumped for this film after that trailer! Did you like it? Leave your comments below.

CAPTAIN AMERICA: THE FIRST AVENGER”

Paramount Pictures and Marvel Entertainment Present
A Marvel Studios Production/A Film by Joe Johnston

Co‐Producers - Stephen Broussard, Victoria Alonso
Executive Producers - Alan Fine, Stan Lee, David Maisel, Joe Johnston, Louis D’Esposito, Nigel Gostelow
Produced by Kevin Feige
Screenplay by Christopher Markus & Stephen McFeely
Directed by Joe Johnston

Cast: Chris Evans, Tommy Lee Jones, Hugo Weaving, Hayley Atwell, Sebastian Stan, Dominic Cooper, Toby Jones, Neal McDonough, Derek Luke, and Stanley Tucci.

Synopsis:

“Captain America: The First Avenger” will focus on the early days of the Marvel Universe when Steve Rogers (Chris Evans) volunteers to participate in an experimental program that turns him into the Super Soldier known as Captain America.  As Captain America, Rogers joins forces with Bucky Barnes (Sebastian Stan) and Peggy Carter (Hayley Atwell) to wage war on the evil HYDRA organization, led by the villainous Red Skull (Hugo Weaving.)

One of a continuing slate of films being produced by Marvel Studios based on the Marvel characters, “Captain America: The First Avenger” joins “Thor” on May 6, 2011 and “The Avengers” on May 4, 2012. Visit the film’s official site here and on Facebook

Photo credit: Jay Maidment / Marvel Studios. Hugo Weaving plays Red Skull, aka Johann Schmidt, in CAPTAIN AMERICA: THE FIRST AVENGER, from Paramount Pictures and Marvel Entertainment.(c) 2011 MVLFFLLC. TM & (c) 2011 Marvel. All Rights Reserved.

Thanks to the fine folks at Entertainment Weekly, we can finally get a full look at Johann Schmidt nemesis of Captain America. Last month a couple of seconds of the Skull flashed by in the Super Bowl commercial. Sherlock Holmes has Moriarty. Superman has Lex Luthor. For Cap, it’s the Skull. Introduced in Timely’s Captain America Comics #1 from 1941 the Red Skull was an elite Nazi assassin. When Captain America was introduced into the 60′s Marvel Universe, the Skull’s story was told in a World War II flashback , “The Fantastic Origin of the Red Skull” in 1965′s Tales of Suspense #66. Schmidt was an orphan working as a bellhop when he was personally chosen by Hitler to become the ultimate Nazi. A year later, the Skull became  part of the modern world in Tales of Suspense #79, “The Red Skull Lives”. Turns out he had inhaled an experimental gas and was in a state of suspended animation until awakened by agents of A.I.M. ( Advanced Idea Mechanics ). In the upcoming film, Hugo Weaving ( THE MATRIX ) plays Schmidt as a weapons expert operating as part of Hydra ( we can see the Hydra logo on his belt buckle ). Several reports are saying that he acquires a version of the ultimate weapon, the Cosmic Cube. We’ll learn everything when Paramount releases CAPTAIN AMERICA: THE FIRST AVENGER  to theatres on July 22, 2011.

Randy Queen signs with Andrea Brown Literary Agency to turn Darkchylde comics into Young Adult Novels.

Darkchylde is the story of Ariel Chylde, a good hearted southern teen cursed to become the creatures from her many recurring Nightmares. A break out independent comic, now poised to become a break out series of young adult novels.

“I’m elated Ariel’s Chylde’s journey to young adult bookshelves is in the very capable hands of Kelly Sonnack at Andrea Brown Literary Agency,” says author Randy Queen. “Their track record is considerable, and Kelly’s conviction, strategy, and personal enthusiasm ensures a bright trajectory.”

Kelly Sonnack offers, “When the sample pages for DARKCHYLDE came across my desk, I quickly realized this was something special. For contemporary teen readers who haven’t been exposed to Ariel Chylde through Randy’s comics, I think they’ll find her hugely compelling. She’s a vivid, exciting new heroine who could refresh the current landscape of teen protagonists.”

Continues Queen, “Celebrating her 15th Anniversary in the comic book world, comic book fans have already demonstrated an enduring love for Ariel’s haunted tales. The thriving YA arena is the next logical platform to bring “Darkchylde: the Ariel Chylde Saga” to a whole new audience.”

Andrea Brown Literary agency is consistently ranked #1 in juvenile sales in Publishers Marketplace. Founded in New York City in 1981, it was the first literary agency to represent both children’s book authors and illustrators.

Offering a stark contrast to super hero comics, Darkchylde was a breakout sensation of the late 90′s and early 2000′s, garnering immediate acclaim, and an unusually large female fanbase. The property went on to outsell Spider-Man, Superman, and Batman in both domestic and foreign audiences, and has been realized in toys, trading cards, apparel, lunch boxes, mini busts, and more recently a hit crossover with Top Cow Ent., and statue from PopCultureShockToys. Darkchylde Entertainment’s Randy Queen and Sarah Queen are currently producing the film version with director John Carpenter and Sandy King producing for their Storm King productions, with Richard Taylor’s Academy Award winning Weta Workshop (The Lord of the Rings, King Kong, Avatar, The Hobbit) onboard for visual effects. Darkchylde Collected Editions are being released by Image Comics in 2011 to celebrate the character’s 15th Anniversary, in tandem with statues and toys from Diamond Distributors. Additional Info can be found at www.darkchylde.com and www.andreabrownlit.com

The trailer for 20th Century Fox’s X-MEN: FIRST CLASS will be released tomorrow! Big Woo! Until then, here a first look at Magneto via EW. Just where is he? Leave your guesses in our comments section below.

On Thursday X-MEN fans should visit X-Men Movies Facebook page HERE for the film’s trailer debut and share the video with friends to unlock special content – the X-App lets X-Men fans customize their profile pictures and their Facebook experience! You can also get additional info on the film over on Twitter HERE!

The Facebook page also revealed the X-MEN: FIRST CLASS logo and it’s a lot like the teaser poster.

Synopsis:

X-MEN FIRST CLASS charts the epic beginning of the X-Men saga, and reveals a secret history of famous global events. Before mutants had revealed themselves to the world, and before Charles Xavier and Erik Lehnsherr took the names Professor X and Magneto, they were two young men discovering their powers for the first time. Not archenemies, they were instead at first the closest of friends, working together with other Mutants (some familiar, some new), to prevent nuclear Armageddon. In the process, a grave rift between them opened, which began the eternal war between Magneto’s Brotherhood and Professor X’s X-Men.

Directed by Matthew Vaughn (KICK-ASS) and starring James McAvoy, Michael Fassbender, Rose Byrne, January Jones, Oliver Platt, and Kevin Bacon, X-MEN FIRST CLASS will be in theaters June 3, 2011.