Darth Vader "Limited Edition: Life-Size Figure”

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One of the greatest villains in film history, the imposing Dark Lord of the Sith needs no introduction.

Captured in 1:1 scale, and towering over 7 feet tall, the ruler of the Galactic Empire strikes a commanding pose on a cinematic light-up display base, and interchangeable hands allow collectors to recreate all of Darth Vader's most memorable dramatic gestures. From his iconic helmet to his sweeping black cape, every detail of Vader's menacing costume has been painstakingly recreated as seen in Episode VI: Return of the Jedi, with a hand-tailored quilted suit, screen-accurate armor and sequencing electronics in the chest box and belt.

Give yourself to the Dark Side of the Force with the Star Wars Darth Vader Life-Size figure from Sideshow Collectible. The Limited Edition Figure is expected to ship JUNE 2015 and Pre-Order is available now.

Video Games: The Movie

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From executive producer Zach Braff (SCRUBS) and game designer Cliff Bleszinski (GEARS OF WAR) comes a feature-length documentary entitled VIDEO GAMES: THE MOVIE. 

The documentary chronicles the meteoric rise of video games from nerd niche to multi-billion dollar industry.  It features in-depth interviews with luminaries like Hideo Kojima (METAL GEAR), Warren Spector (DEUS EX), and Nolan Bushnell (ATARI). Narrated by Sean Astin (LORD OF THE RINGS), it’s a celebration of gaming from Atari to Xbox, and an eye-opening look at what lies ahead.

The movie will hit selected theaters and only on July 15th.  It can be pre-ordered on iTunes or the Official Website. Check the trailer below


New Kingdom Hearts 2.5 HD ReMIX Trailer

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The new trailer for Kingdom Hearts 2.5 HD ReMIX has been released.The trailers show key scenes from KINGDOM HEARTS II and KINGDOM HEARTS Birth by Sleep with new improvements, including the remastered visuals, enhanced color palettes and new costumes. Viewers can interact with the new HD / SD / Compare buttons to directly see the improvements as well. KINGDOM HEARTS HD 2.5 ReMIX will be available for North America on December 2, 2014 for the PlayStation®3 system, and will be priced at $39.99. The game is now available for preorder on Amazon.


Otakon Adds Kill La Kill English Dub Cast To Guest List

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Very cool news for anime fans out there. Otakon 2014 has announced the popular anime show "Kill La Kill" English Dub cast is coming to Otakon. Read the official information below.

Otakon 2014 is adding the voice actors of the English dub of Kill La Kill to the guest list for Otakon 2014. Erica Mendez, Carrie Keranen, Christine Cabanos and David Vincent were recently announced by Aniplex as the dub cast, and this will be the first time fans can see them together to talk about their roles in the series. Mendez, who was born and raised in the suburbs of Chicago, plays vagrant schoolgirl, Ryuko Matoi, in Kill la Kill. She became interested in voice-over during her early teen years through anime and video games. Making up and imitating voices from her favorite shows and games as a hobby quickly turned into long-term goal to get into the voice-over industry. Several years and one giant move across the country later, she is working as a professional voice-over artist. Like the rest of the cast, she works in Los Angeles. In the anime world, she is best known for her roles as Aladdin in Magi: The Labyrinth of Magic; and Jasmine, young Staz, and Angry in Blood Lad. Her video game works include Pac in Pac-man and the Ghostly Adventures, Fran in Demon Gaze, Eryn in Fairy Fencer F, Micie in Atelier Escha & Logy, Lucchini in The Witch and the Hundred Knight, Corbin in Dust: An Elysian Tail, Pearl in Heroes of Newerth, and Esmy in Cryamore. Keranen plays Ryuko's rival, Satsuki, in Kill la Kill. She's also known for her role of Mami in Madoka Magica. Last summer she reprised her role as Caska in Berserk for the movie trilogy. In 2012 she went to San Diego ComicCon to premiere TEKKEN: Blood Vengeance as Ling Xiaoyu. She has previously given voice to Mokuba for the later seasons of YuGiOh as well as Kisara in YuGiOh Millenium. She has had lead roles as Cutie Honey in the live action Cutie Honey, Kumiko in Gokusen, Hinaku in Phoenix (Hi no Tori) and as Sheena in Pokemon: Arceus and the Jewel of Life. Her voice also appears in recurring roles on Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles, Ah! My Goddess, Slayers, Let's go Tamgotchi, Pat and Stan, and Huntik. Her favorite video game role was Annie in Red Dead Revolver, though you can hear her on League of Legends, Viva Pinata, as well as several to be released soon. Cabanos plays Ryuko's friend Mako Mankanshoku in Kill La Kill. Some of her most notable roles include Azusa Nakano of K-On!, Madoka Kaname in Puella Magi Madoka Magica, Shiemi Moriyama in Blue Exorcist, Silica in Sword Art Online, Minori Kushieda in Toradora!, Haruka in Oblivion Island, the titular character of Squid Girl in Squid Girl, Minawa Ando in Mahoromatic: I’m Home, General Pisti in Magi: The Labyrinth of Magic, Michi Kondo in Lagrange: The Flower of Rin-ne, Ruka Asato in Accel World, Reina and Mew in Pokemon Origins, Filia in Skullgirls, Marie Rose in Dead or Alive 5 Ultimate, Chiaki Nanami in Dangan Ronpa 2, Nepgear in the Hyperdimension Neptunia series, Keina Sawaya in Atelier Meruru, and roles in video games such as Time and Eternity, Ragnarok Online 2, Witch and the Hundred Knight and Mugen Souls Z.

Vincent, who is both a professional voice actor and a television producer, lends his voice to an unusual role in Kill La Kill, playing Senketsu, the living sailor uniform Ryuko finds beneath her house. He was nominated Best Voice Actor in an Anime by the American Anime Awards for his work as Van in GUN x SWORD. Some of his best known animation credits include: Grimmjow Jeagerjaques & Kouga Kuchiki in Bleach; Li Xingke in Code Geass; Archer/Gilgamesh in Fate/Zero; Assassin in Fate/Stay Night; Seiji in Durarara!!; Arthur August Angel in Blue Exorcist; Daisuke Nagase in Persona 4; Sakon in Kekkaish; Chester Barklight in Tales Of Phantasia; General Logi in Blue Dragon; and Giichi in Blade Of The Immortal. Some of his more recent video game credits include: Jin Kisaragi & Hakumen in the BlazBlue game series; Richard in Tales Of Graces F; Raymond Vester in Resident Evil: Revelations; Marshall Law & Forest Law in the Tekken franchise; Shin Kamiya in Tekken: Blood Vengance; Eliot in Dead Or Alive 5; Keiss in Final Fantasy: The Crystal Bearers; THawk in Super Street Fighter IV; Morgan in Medal Of Honor; Blocter in The Last Remnant; Edward in Infinite Undiscovery; and Richter in Castlevania: Dracula X Chronicles. Other titles include HALO 4, Soul Calibur V, Fire Emblem: Awakening, Spec Ops: The line, Alpha Protocol, plus many more new titles to be released this year. in addition to voice acting, Vincent has also appeared in front of the camera in guest and costarring roles on primetime television shows NCIS, Criminal Minds and The Mentalist, among others.

Otakon 2014 will be held August 8-10 at the Baltimore Convention Center in Baltimore.

Pokémon: Symphonic Evolutions Live Orchestral Concert Tour Begins on August 15, 2014

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Here is some really cool news for Pokemon fans:

The Pokémon Company International and Princeton Entertainment announced today that the official Pokémon live orchestral concert series, Pokémon: Symphonic Evolutions, will premiere at the famed Warner Theater in Washington, DC on Friday, August 15, 2014. The 2014 Pokémon World Championships will also be held in the nation’s capital that weekend, August 16–17, at the Walter E. Washington Convention Center.

The premiere performance in Washington, DC will be followed by a performance at Philadelphia's Mann Center for the Performing Arts on Friday, September 19th. More dates, locations, and ticket information for the concert series will be announced soon and further details, including how to purchase tickets now to the Washington, DC and Philadelphia performances, can be found at PokemonSymphony.com.

Pokémon: Symphonic Evolutions will take audiences of all ages on a powerful musical retrospective through the popular video game franchise’s most memorable melodies. This exciting new concert tour reunites key creative producers from the critically acclaimed The Legend of Zelda™: Symphony of the Goddesses concert tour.

With more than 260 million video games sold since its debut in 1996, Pokémon continues to provide memorable entertainment around the world. Pokémon: Symphonic Evolutions gives loyal fans and newcomers a chance to experience the evolution of the franchise through all-new orchestral arrangements and carefully timed visuals drawing from classic and recent Pokémon video games including:

• Pokémon Red and Pokémon Blue, Pokémon Yellow

• Pokémon Gold and Pokémon Silver, Pokémon Crystal

• Pokémon Ruby and Pokémon Sapphire, Pokémon Emerald

• Pokémon Diamond and Pokémon Pearl, Pokémon Platinum

• Pokémon Black and Pokémon White

• Pokémon X and Pokémon Y

SkyBlew x Backdraft: Journeys In 1st Person Review

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A couple of months ago I featured a Hip Hop artist by the name of SkyBlew on this site. He was featured on our "Geeks Who Do Music" spotlight (/www.otakusandgeeks.com/akusandgeeks.com/2014/02/geeks-who-do-music-5-skyblew.html). Well this time SkyBlew is back with all new music entitled "Journeys In 1st Person." Just like his previous release "Digi Destined", SkyBlew brings an amazing production and a storytelling theme as we get a glimpse of the artist in first person.

If you're tired of the hoe praising, drug selling, money flashing that continue to plague the genre I love. I suggest you give SkyBlew a listen. While he's not the only underground Hip Hop artist that brings positivity or the only geek rapper doing that. I will say listening to his music makes him standout. His music has an identity, he knows his audiences and his listeners. One of the most important things for any artist is to be themselves. SkyBlew knows this and you can hear it in his rhymes and you hear it in his production.

"Journeys In 1st Person" exceeds pass SkyBlew's previous entries. What make this entry standout is that we really get to see the world as SkyBlew views it. Unlike his previous entry "Digi Destined" which the focal point was otaku and geek culture, this entry is more grounded in the world of SkyBlew. Songs like "Ordinary Tuesday", "Island Of Serenity", "Blew Style That I Write" and "The Green Ballons" are the standout tracks to listen too. In this entry SkyBlew doesn't drop as much geeky references as he does in "Digi Destined." Instead of the geeky references and bars aimed at the culture, SkyBlew delivers lines and music for the everyday person. The subject matters target the music business, dream killers and staying true to your goals. Overall the message of this album is be yourself. While the subject matter might not be the most popular in the mainstream media, it's an important message to the audience that SkyBlew is targeting. One of my favorite lines from this album is from my favorite track "Ordinary Tuesday."

"No matter how they mask their existence with name brand clothes, they can't take it with them when they go. All you got is soul though some trade it away no amount equal to a better day." - "Ordinary Tuesday" By SkyBlew

SkyBlew continues to deliver lyrically on this EP, however his production is what really brings everything together. The sample tracks from classic Motown artist such as Marvin Gaye not only bring the value of the EP high, it also honors and pays homage to the artist he is sampling. I would say the only flaw I didn't really like was some of the features. While SkyBlew sets the flow and tone of the song, some of the features knock it out and some don't. The features don't ruin the songs by any means it's just some felt out of place.  Overall this is another solid EP from SkyBlew and you can check it out at (http://skyblew1.bandcamp.com/album/skyblew-x-backdraft-journeys-in-1st-person)

Final Grade 4.5/5

Like SkyBlew On Facebook
https://www.facebook.com/SkyBlewMusic

Follow SkyBlew On Twitter
https://twitter.com/heyskyblew

SkyBlew's Bandcamp
http://skyblew1.bandcamp.com/



"ALL YOU NEED IS KILL" Now Available

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ALL YOU NEED IS KILL the manga, the same story that inspired the recent movie “EDGE OF TOMORROW” is available now. This is Takeshi Obata's (DEATH NOTE, BAKUMAN) manga adaptation of Japanese military science fiction breakthrough light novel of the same name by Hiroshi Sakurazaka.

When the alien Mimics invade, Keiji Kiriya is just one of many recruits shoved into a suit of battle armor called a Jacket and sent out to kill. Keiji dies on the battlefield, only to be reborn each morning to fight and die again and again. On his fifth iteration, he gets a message from a mysterious ally – the female soldier known as the Full Metal Bitch. Is she the key to Keiji's escape or his final death?

 ALL YOU NEED IS KILL volumes 1 and 2 are now available through the VIZ Manga platform (iOS and Android, VIZManga.com), as well as through the storefronts for iBooks, Kindle, Nook, GooglePlay and Kobo.  There's also a All YOU NEED IS KILL Vol. 1 Free Preview available.

As for  the “EDGE OF TOMORROW”, the film adaptation directed by Doug Liman, starring Tom Cruise and Emily Blunt that hit theaters last month. See the trailer below

Netflix First Original Anime Series KNIGHTS OF SIDONIA Coming July 4th

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Orange Is The New Black, House of Cards, Hemlock Grove and now Netflix is taking on Anime with "Knights Of Sidonia." Knights Of Sidonia is based on the  manga series by Tsutomu Nihei,marks the first Netflix original anime series. The story follows the struggle of human survival amongst the monstrous shapeshifting aliens “Gauna” who all but destroyed the solar system a millennia ago and are bent on eliminating humans from existence. Nagate Tanikaze, a low-born youth in a society of genetically engineered humans - now refugees that escaped the destruction of Earth one thousand years earlier, occupying the massive ship Sidonia. Nagate grew up living in the bottom layers of Sidonia away from civilization and raised by his now deceased grandfather. When Nagate’s talent as a pilot is revealed he becomes one of Sidonia’s elite defenders against the Guana. Check out the photo stills and trailer below.  

 




Sci-Fi Horror Manga Series Terra Formars Coming July 15th

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An all new Sci-Fi Horror manga series "Terra Formars" is coming July 15th. You can read the press release below.

The series, illustrated by Kenichi Tachibana with story by Yu Sasuga, will be published under the VIZ Signature imprint, is rated ‘M’ for Mature Readers, and will carry an MSRP of $12.99 U.S. / $14.99 CAN. Future volumes of TERRA FORMARS, which is continuing in Japan, will be released domestically on a bi-monthly basis. In the late 26th century, overpopulation on Earth has reached the breaking point and humanity must find new frontiers. The terraforming of Mars has taken centuries but is now complete.

The colonization of Mars by humanity is an epoch-making event, but an unintended side effect of the terraforming process unleashes a horror no one could ever have imagined… In the opening volume, after humanity’s first manned mission to the Red Planet was lost, a second expedition arrives. The explorers prepare to exterminate the cockroaches that were used to transform the Martian environment, but are shocked to discover that the insects have mutated into giant, aggressive humanoids with one overriding goal – to exterminate all humans! However, this crew of explorers has each undergone the “Bugs Procedure,” a terrifying experimental surgery designed to make them more than human… “Kenichi Tachibana’s crisp and kinetic artwork is the perfect vehicle for Yu Sasuga’s sci-fi action drama that will grab TERRA FORMARS readers from the very first chapter,” says Mike Montesa, Editor. “Step off-world into a stark vision of humanity’s future gone shockingly awry in this intense new horror story that presents the dark side to man’s quest to create new worlds among the stars.”

Yu Sasuga made his debut as a manga writer in Miracle Jump with TERRA FORMARS, a project in collaboration with artist Kenichi Tachibana. TERRA FORMARS was nominated in 2013 for a Manga Taisho award. Tachibana’s previous works include Potchari Maniacs and his 2007 series, Lucky Seven Stars. For more information on TERRA FORMARS, or other manga titles from VIZ Media’s VIZ Signature imprint, please visit www.VIZ.com.

New Live-Action Lupin III Film

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One of Japan’s most popular manga and anime franchises, LUPIN III is getting a new live action adaptation helmed by Director Kitamura Ryuhei (VERSUS). Oguri Shun (CROWS ZERO) plays the lead role as the gentlemen thief with an ensemble supporting cast the likes of Asano Tadanobu, Tamayama Tetsuji, Ayano Go and Kuroki Meisa.

The story follows Lupin and his partners in crime before they became a gang. They infiltrate the high security of the Ark of Navarone, a gigantic fortress-like safe, to lay claim to the Crimson Heart of Cleopatra within. It is said that whoever possesses this treasure shall "unite the world."

The first live-action adaptation of LUPIN III in four decades will open on August 30. The movie began filming on October 3 and finished principal photography on December 26. The production shot in Japan, Thailand, Hong Kong, Singapore, and the Philippines.

Check the full trailer below featuring the new instrumental theme song by Tomoyasu Hotei.


5 Actors Who Should Play Harley Quinn

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Dr. Harleen Quinzel, better known as Harley Quinn, was an employee at Arkam Asylum until the moment she fell in madly deeply and unwaveringly in love with the Joker. The actors below have been chosen based on three categories that are the most important traits of Harley’s that are imperative to whoever gets the role. The first is the attitude. Harley needs to have the an apparent mental stability issue because to love someone like the Joker you have to be CRAZY! She is extremely playful with a heart of gold. The next is the body. Harley most certainly a lover but that doesn’t rule her out as a fighter. She is always shown flipping through the air with ease and the ability to even go toe to toe in a fight with Batman himself. Last, one of the most recognizable traits of Harley is the voice.


Honorable mention who came so close to this list are Yael Stone from Orange is the New Black, Isla Fisher, and Teresa Palmer but each of them I believe are slightly off the mark. So here we go….




#5 Hayden Panettiere
Best known for the TV series Nashville Hayden maybe be small but she is definitely a fireball! She has had experience in Gymnastics in the past which means she is physically perfect and ready. Her body of work is versatile proving she can take on any role. The reason she barely makes the cut however is due the fact she hasn’t done any extreme accent work. Her beautiful vocals on Nashville proves her voice certainly have the range for Harley so there’s definitely potential there.



#4 Chloë Sevigny
Chloe, best known for American Psycho is no stranger to the criminally insane. She was a series regular on  American Horror Story Asylum playing a nymphomaniac trapped in a corrupt 1960s church run asylum. Her physicality and acting ability would lend itself incredible well to a darker Christopher Nolan-esque Harley. Unfortunately there is no proof she would be able to execute the voice.  



#3 Chloë Grace Moretz
If it weren’t for her age our favorite Hit Girl would have made number one on this list. Chloe’s performance as Hit Girl in Kick Ass and Kick Ass 2 proves she has the body and stunt capability to pull off Harley. In Martin Scorsese’s Hugo she showcased her ability to be playful and in the 2013 Remake of the Carrie she proves that dangerous and mentally unhinged is most definitely in her bag of tricks. She has also done multiple accents and voices for some of her characters therefore she has the vocal capability. The only problem is of course her age. Harleen is a certified therapist working at Arkam.There is no way a 17-year-old has been through enough school.



#2 Jena Malone
Jena had a long track record with both feature films and television that make her an obvious choice for Harley. Her most recent role as Johanna Mason in The Hunger Games: Catching Fire certainly proves she got the physical capabilities. Just remove the axe she’s got in her hand and replace it with a huge mallet and you’ve got Harley. Her other roles include a plethora of accent work. She had an impeccable british accent in Pride and Prejudice along with a playful and youthful personality. So let’s get her in tights and she what can do!  




#1 Kristen Belle
Now best known Disney’s animated feature Frozen, Kristen is the most qualified when it comes to voice work. Not only does she have several voice over credits, her live performance of “Do You Want to Build A Snowman?” in which she sang all three ages of Anna with noticeably different voices proves her vocal capabilities are vast! There is a reason so much fan art of her exists as Harley already. She has tremendous talent and versatility. She commits 100% to every role she tackles, including any stunt work. Kristen herself has a youthful sensibility that will translate into Harley seamlessly.




The five above all are great choice with the foundation to pull Harley out off the comic books and on to the big screen!! It looks like for now however we will all have to wait patiently for the announcement of the return of the Joker followed by the introduction of Harley.

Kill La Kill Review

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What happens when you mix an all out war on clothes with action-packed, comedy driven, high emotion characters with an awesome story in a show? Kill la Kill of course. Strap in and hold on to your fabric, it's going to be a long ride.

Synopsis: Ryuko Matoi is a schoolgirl out to find the other half of a blade that was left at the scene of her father's murder.  Her findings leads her to Honnuji Academy where the headmaster, Satsuki Kiryun, claims to know or is the cause of Ryuko father's murder. It's also the place where the students wear super powered uniforms. She comes across a living uniform called Senketsu, who gives her the power to find out the truth, and unravel a whole lot of kicka** onto the world!



Characters: I love Ryuko. Like she falls under one of my favorite heroines of all time. She kicks butt, she know what she wants, and she kicks butt (did I already say that). Besides the main character, all of them are quirky and at the same time endearing. One of the characters I had a hard time taking seriously and as time went on, I can understand why. He was mysterious and yet towards the middle and end of the series, I was taken back by him. Everyone who watched the whole series, probably knows who I am talking about. Also the villains in the show are diabolically evil and intriguing. One of them makes my skin crawl and you will see her later on in the show. Another villain just is sweet as she can be then flipped at a drop of a dime and its so creepy.

Music: The music, just as the show, is so good. Justin did the review of the OST so to hear the great ratings in music check out his post. I have the same feelings as him so for this part I will say ditto.

Animation: Flawless. I have seen a couple of episodes of Gurren Lagann, but I never got into it. The same people that brought you Gurren Lagann brought us Kill la Kill and they did an amazing job. However with this show, enthralled me. The animation is crazy plus there is a lot of fan service for both guys and girls. It immediately grasped me from the first episode and I know it will grab you too.

Overall Rating: 9 out of 10. There is a lot of fan service for my taste but overall its a great story with great action and comedy. I highly recommend this to anyone who likes Gurren Lagann. However I don't recommend this as a "gateway" anime to a person who is just starting out. Enjoy the show and tell us what you think in the comments below. Anime Rules!!!!!!!!!!!! ^-^








                                                     

Five Villains We Want To See In Justice League Film Before Darkseid

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With Batman v Superman: Dawn of Justice now filming. The seeds of the Justice League are finally being planted. There is no doubt in my mind that the big villain will be Darkseid. However which villains should the Justice League face leading to Darkseid. The Justice League has an impressive rogue gallery of villains. If the rumors of DC making their movies one big Justice League story arch is true, then we can see a couple of villains that help serve Darkseid's cause and flush out character archs for each league member. I have a couple of villains I would like to see give Justice League a hard time.

1. Vandal Savage

















Immortal, genius and certified madman is the best way to describe Vandal Savage. Vandal is a man I would love to see get the live action treatment. He is villain that not only is immortal, but his genius is what is truly intriguing. Vandal has his own views on how the world should be run, who should be in charge. In addition his knowledge and wealth, Vandal have always been intriguing with his skills in technology. One of my favorite stories of Vandal Savage is the "Injustice Society." It would be great to see a modern day "Injustice Society" lead by Vandal Savage for the new Justice League Universe.

2. Amazo


















I might I get heat for this one. However I think Amazo will be great for second Justice League movie. Amazo is Humanoid that is equip with absorption cells, which allows him to have all the powers of the Justice League members. He can be a creation of LexCorp to try to take down Superman and Batman. Trust me this is one android who is a serious threat even to the Justice League. .

3. Prometheus

















I've always been a fan of Prometheus. Even though he is consider more of a Batman villain than anything. Prometheus has had his encounters with the Justice League. He is known of what Batman would be like if he didn't take the side of justice. Prometheus doesn't have any powers but like Batman is highly intelligent and skilled in fighting. Read Justice League's: Cry for Justice to see how awesome Prometheus is.

4. Injustice League









This is a clearly a no brainer. This is a must for the Justice League film franchise. The Injustice League is a group of the Justice League's biggest rogue gallery, banded together for a common goal. Since Lex is making his appearance in this upcoming film, he could start planting seeds for the inevitable Injustice League. While Lex might be the appear the head of the snake, he can only be following Darkseid's orders.

5. Doomsday









I know he's a Superman villain and he's the one who did the unthinkable by killing Superman. However imagine the "Death of Superman" storyline in the Justice League film. Doomsday is very hard to stop when he gets going. He will bring destruction, chaos and hopefully a high body count when he is unleashed.

Who do you think should be in the JLA films before the big boss Darkseid? Leave a comment and let us know.

kawii Events and Fashion Contest At J-Pop Summit 2014

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Japan’s unique “Harajuku culture” has evolved into “kawaii” culture, which focuses on ever-evolving new forms of “cute” couture and is having tremendous impact on international pop/rock music and fashion. “kawaii” is a word often used to comment on style and fashion and has become part of the daily vernacular of the youth culture of many countries.

This year’s kawaii!! events are supported by Consulate General of Japan in San Francisco and presented as the first collaboration with the MOSHI MOSHI NIPPON Project, a new initiative developed by ASOBISYSTEM, a prominent entertainment company based in Harajuku, Tokyo widely known for managing pop icon Kyary Pamyu Pamyu, to promote a wider range of Japanese pop culture on an even bigger, more global level. Additional information on the MOSHI MOSHI NIPPON initiative is available at: http://moshimoshi-nippon.jp/en.

Also returning will be the J-POP SUMMIT kawai!! Pop-Up Shop. A colorful kawaii!! fashion boutique stocked with a wide selection of unique items from some of the hottest labels imported straight from Tokyo will be open inside NEW PEOPLE (MARUQ on Mezzanine Floor). NEW PEOPLE is the renowned Japanese pop culture entertainment complex located at 1746 Post St. San Francisco, CA 94115 in the heart of the city’s Japantown district. More details on are available at: http://www.j-pop.com/2014/harajuku-kawaii.

MOSHI MOSHI NIPPON Presents KAWAii!! Events & Special Programming
KAWAii!! FASHION CONTEST

Saturday, July 19th, 1:00pm, Pagoda Main Stage, Japantown
This year, the J-POP SUMMIT will hold a special fashion contest where contestants can show off their own kawaii fashion style! The Festival welcome Una, Ayumi Seto, Akira and Misa Kimura as judges! The winner will receive kawaii!! an assortment of premiums including “Aymmy in the batty girls’ products. Additional information on this event is available at: http://www.j-pop.com/2014/harajuku-kawaii.

“AYMMY IN THE BATTY GIRLS” FASHION SHOW
Saturday, July 19th, 1:00pm, Pagoda Main Stage, Japantown
Models Ayumi Seto, Misa Kimura, Una and join others from Bay Area to showcase the colorful summer collection from Seto’s brand new fashion line, “Aymmy in the batty girls.” Many of the same outfits featured in the show will be available to purchase at kawaii!! Pop-Up Store located inside the NEW PEOPLE building (Mezzanine Level).

AKIRA LIVE PERFORMANCE
Saturday, July 19th, 1:00pm, Pagoda Main Stage, Japantown
J-POP SUMMIT fans can catch Akira, a popular model and singer in a special solo live set. She notably debuted as a model for "KERA,” a popular gothic fashion magazine, and quickly became one of the top models in Japan. Akira is also a pop singer and her debut single, "Aoki Tsuki Michite," is featured as the ending theme of the popular anime series, Black Butler ~ Book of Circus. Her music and striking gothic-androgynous style have captured legions of fans both in Japan and internationally and her debut album is slated to release on July 30th. For more information please visit: Akira.

UNA LIVE PERFORMANCE
Saturday, July 19th, 6:30pm-8:30pm, J-POP LIVE at UNION SQUARE
Sunday, July 20th, 12:45pm, Pagoda Main Stage, Japantown
Una is a charismatic model well-known in the Harajuku scene for her unique and edgy fashion style. She launched pop music career with her first single “Juicy Juicy” last year and went on to release digital mini album, “True of Lights/Danse Danse.” Una participated in “U-EXPRESS LIVE 2014″ in Saitama and appeared with Katy Perry, Kyary Pamyu Pamyu and released her newest “BOOM BOOM BOOM,” in April. She brings her danceable groove to J-POP SUMMIT for a special concert performance not to be missed! For more details, please visit: UNA.

AYUMI SETO AUTOGRAPH & PHOTO SESSION
Saturday, July 19th, 3:00pm, NEW PEOPLE Mezzanine
Sunday, July 20th, 2:00pm, NEW PEOPLE Mezzanine
Ayumi Seto, a fashion model and designer of her own new brand, “Aymmy in the batty girls,” will hold a special autograph/photo session on both days of J-POP SUMMIT! Each day, the first 50 customers to purchase “Aymmy in the batty girls” products during festival will receive a pass! For more information, please visit: Ayumi Seto.

KAWAii!! POP-UP SHOP AT NEW PEOPLE
Saturday, July 19th & Sunday, July 20th, 11:00am-6:00pm
NEW PEOPLE Mezzanine
Visit NEW PEOPLE’s retail store, located inside the MARUQ boutique the venue’s Mezzanine Floor, will offer exclusive lines of fashion apparel, designs and accessories imported strait from Tokyo! Don’t miss the new summer collections of “Aymmy in the batty girls,” a new fashion brand inspired by a unique mix of 60s and 70s Americana popular culture, punk and rock fashion designed by model Ayumi Seto.

KAWAii!! MEET-UP AREA Presented By MOSHI MOSHI NIPPON
Saturday, July 19th & Sunday, July 20th, 11:00am-6:00pm
KAWAii!! TENT, Post Street, Japantown
MOSHI MOSHI NIPPON will host a special tents located on Post St. in the heart of the J-POP SUMMIT Festival action where Kawaii fans can gather and meet! Get special info about the latest Kawaii trends, check out new merchandise, and meet other fans and models! More information will be updated at: www.j-pop.com/2014/harajuku-kawaii.

This year, the J-POP SUMMIT offers a wide variety of programming including FREE live concerts by top J-Pop and J-Rock artists on the Pagoda Main Stage in Japantown and also at the special “J-POP LIVE at UNION SQUARE” concert on the evening of Saturday, July 19th in San Francisco’s historic downtown commercial intersection. J-POP SUMMIT will also present a variety of special Guest of Honor appearances, sake-tasting and fine foods events at the POP GOURMET Food Festival, and first-run theatrical film premieres at NEW PEOPLE Cinema that launch the second annual Japan Film Festival of San Francisco (JFFSF). Complete details on key events and major attractions are available at: http://www.j-pop.com and www.JFFSF.org.

Stay tuned for additional J-POP SUMMIT Guest of Honor, programming and event announcements!

Gotham Pilot Review

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With the success of Arrow on the CW, DC has been extremely proactive about creating new television series based on other DC Super Heroes. Batman seemed to be the next logical choice, but how? With the success of the Dark Knight Films and anticipation for Batman v. Superman: Dawn of Justice how could they search for another actor to play Batman?
Gotham, a new pilot airing this Fall on Fox, follows Jim Gordon as he  starts his career with Gotham PD. The series begins two weeks after Gordon’s first day. The pilot jumps right in with his first big case, the murder of Gotham’s most influential couple, Thomas and Martha Wayne. Their death becomes catalyst for mayhem, deceit and destruction to thrive in Gotham, and is the spark that ignites Bruce’s obsession with justice.
Ben Mckenzie, best known for The O.C., is wonderful as Jim Gordon. Gordon is one of the only members of Gotham PD who is committed unwaveringly to doing what’s right. Mckenzie gives Gordon the tough skin he needs to survive in an organization as corrupt as the police force of Gotham has become with the heart and passionate determination we expect from Detective Gordon.


Other familiar faces include Detective Harvey Bullock played by Donal Logue, most recently a recurring character on Law and Order: SVU. Logue effortlessly captures Bullock’s nonchalant contentment for the way things are run in Gotham and his pompous attitude of imperviousness but misses opportunities to showcase the often jovial way Bullock copes with confrontation. Sean Pertwee, despite his lack of screen time in the pilot, is a very level headed Alfred. Last but certainly not least David Mazouz taking on the role of Bruce Wayne. As far as the pilot goes Mazouz adds both understated nuances and purposeful statements that make it plain Bruce’s journey to becoming Batman is a direct result of his parents death.
The main focus of Gotham however will not be Bruce Wayne. The plan is to focus each episode on the origin stories of our favorite Batman villains. Robin Taylor is outstanding as Oswald Cobblepot, aka the Penguin. Camren Bicondova plays Selina Kyle, and nails the feline physicality of the future Catwoman but doesn’t speak in the pilot. We also get a quick glimpse of Cory Michael Smith as Edward Nygma, later known as The Riddler. Poison Ivy played by Clare Foley has been included in teaser clips on Fox’s Website.

All in all director Danny Cannon does a tremendous job in creating the dark corrupt Gotham fans have grown to love. He gives them characters truly based on the future villains along with the ever so popular procedural layout successful shows cling to. Gotham will air this fall at 8 PM on Mondays only on Fox.
Final Score: 9/10

Don't Be Surprised To See Super Cena Win The Titles

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 So as we get closer to the Money In The Bank PPV, we know that a new champion means headlining SummerSlam. While this would be an ideal time to build a new star (there are 3 in this match that fill that description: Bray Wyatt, Cesaro, Roman Reigns), My money is Super Cena winning the straps. Why? Because Brock Lesnar is coming to take the championship in August. I think any true wrestling fan knew that inevitability was on the way. But why Cena, because he's their bread and butter. They need a strong program to headline the summer. They feel Cena is their biggest draw and rumors have already started saying Brock doesn't mind fighting Cena.

My personal favorite of the 3 is Cesaro but would love to see Reigns get the win. So much momentum behind him. Bray Wyatt taking the title now I don't think is possible because of storyline disalignment. Cesaro is intriguing because they wanted to do a Cesaro-Lesnar program with Paul Heyman at the center. I think that would be great as Cesaro's push looks to be derailed a little for whatever reason so thats why I don't see this happening either. Bringing it back to Reighns, I feel like he will be against HHH at SummerSlam so I would count him out too.

Of the reamining, Randy Orton and Alberto Del Rio have no appeal with Lesnar so they are out as well. That leaves Sheamus as the wildcard here. It will be interesting to see if he drops the US title before the PPV. If so, that will further my speculation that they are highly considering going this route. But with all that said, I still think it will be Cena getting the win. Its a safe move on their part. I don't agree with it and neither will most but the hopeful light at the end of the tunnel will be seeing Brock take the starp from him. I'm a Brock fan as you can see regardless of his part-time status.

Convention Review: Anime Mid-Atlantic

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  Anime Mid-Atlantic was one of the best experiences I had at a convention. AMA is a very small convention, smaller than Nekocon, but I believe that because it was small, I got the most out of it.  
      The panels were great. I went to Uncle Yo's panel called "Uncle Yo's One Night Stands." No its not what you are thinking at first glance. The panel was basically about which anime that can help a person get into anime who wasn't completely into the genre. It was very informative and also very funny. Uncle Yo did it again and it was well worth it. Since the con was small, there were not as many panels that I was interested in. Most of the panels I wanted to go to took place late at night. I had to drive far to get to the con, so having a late night panel escapade was not going to happen. However, my friend went to one that was a Hetalia panel and she enjoyed it. I also went to many voice acting panels such as two panels with Christopher Smith one about auditioning for voice acting  and one where we talked about vilians and why we gravitate towards them. Of course I went to another voice acting panel where it was a Q and A and a voice acting reading of an old Batman comic which was priceless.
      I took pictures of cosplayers and "window" shopped in the dealers' room and artist alley before the time to do my first ever interview....by myself.   Before the interview however, I had to go to opening ceremonies since right after that we needed to rush into a room where the interview would be conducted. As part of the opening ceremonies the voice actors and guests danced to the song "Happy" by Pharrell which was awesome. Then it was time for the interview and it was better than I hoped. It was fun , random, awesome, and it was an honor to be in the same room as such kind and talented people.
      The artist alley was not bad. In fact I went to one stand multiple times that was run by one of the artist's family members (for the cutest Pokemon charms and a beautiful Princess Mononoke poster. Check out her deviantart and tumbler here. Her website will be coming out in July http://chiou.deviantart.com/ and http://chiouart.tumblr.com/). The dealer's room was not bad either. I did get some items like a charm bracelet, an Usa-chan backpack (Honey's bunny from Ouran High School Host Club), a poster and Pokemon charms and an Attack on Titan cape complete with a hood. Plus I go my friend a Sesshomaru traveling mug. This happened in a span of two days, Saturday and Sunday. Also on Sunday I got the board game "Werewolf" which I can't wait to play with eight to twenty-four of my friends. Which means that only eight would play since I do not have twenty-four friends.
My Favorite Cosplay^-^
      The cosplay was so good and creative. All of the pictures are on our Facebook page as on the site. I wish I can sow but alas I have some practicing and a lot of fabric to buy. Everyone did an awesome job and I wish all cosplayers luck on their future cosplay.
     Overall it was a very fun convention and I can't wait to go again next summer. Check out the interview I did with J Michael Tatum, Chris Cason and Kyle Hebert and listen to how I giggle my way through the interview. /www.otakusandgeeks.com/akusandgeeks.com/2014/06/interview-with-kyle-hebert-j-michael.html AMA Rules!!!!!!!!!

Sailor Moon Returns With New Anime Series July 5th

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Great new Sailor Moon fans the girls are back. This is something I will be keeping my eye on. It's like the Toonami era all over again. Check out the official press release of the soon to be series "Sailor Moon Crystal." Anime Rules!!!!

SAILOR MOON CRYSTAL – on July 5th on Hulu and Neon Alley. The series, which reboots the beloved shojo fantasy action property, debuts simultaneously in North America at the same time as its online streaming premiere in Japan, making a true simultaneous release. Future new episodes (subtitled) will debut in North America and Japan the first and third Saturday of each month. Based on Naoko Takeuchi’s legendary manga (graphic novel) series, SAILOR MOON CRYSTAL (rated ‘TV-PG’), retells the story of Sailor Moon as she searches for her fellow Sailor Guardians and the Legendary Silver Crystal to stop the dark forces of Queen Beryl. Visit www.NeonAlley.com and Hulu.com/sailor-moon-crystal for more information; the trailer may also be viewed at http://www.hulu.com/watch/651047 and http://youtu.be/I0B5gnKvHKQ. SAILOR MOON CRYSTAL will be available through NeonAlley.com, VIZ Media’s consolidated online destination for FREE streaming anime content in the U.S. Episodes will also be available on the free, ad-supported Hulu and Hulu Plus subscription service, where users can watch on a variety of devices including Xbox One, Xbox 360, PlayStation®3 (PS3®) or PlayStation®4 (PS4™) systems Roku, Chromecast, and mobile devices. A full list of Hulu and Hulu Plus-enabled devices can be found at http://www.hulu.com/plus/devices




A Few Reasons The Wyatt Family Must Win At Money In The Bank

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Money In The Bank is ten days away and it's shaping to be one hell of a pay per view. Tons of superstars are looking to finally set their stamp in the WWE. Chances are we will see Ambrose vs Rollins, Reigns will be in a ladder match with season veterans. While I will be keeping my eye out for The S.H.I.E.L.D and Rollins matches. There is one team that I have my eye on and I feel needs a big push. The Wyatt Family has been in a long feud with John Cena. The feud didn't turn out the way The Wyatt Family had planned. Cena ended up overcoming the odds and the Wyatt Family didn't really get too much out of the feud. Today I wanted to list a few reasons why I feel the Wyatt Family must win at Money In The Bank.

1. Cena Feud Did Not Establish The Wyatt Family As Top Heels
Yes I know that The Wyatt Family is top heels out of wrestlers in the locker room. Let's be honest the real top heels in the WWE is Triple H and Stephanie of "The Authority." While many say that the Cena feud help elevate Bray Wyatt, I feel that him not coming out on top hurt him. How can you establish yourself as a top heel if you can't beat the top babyface? Bray Wyatt's lost at "Extreme Rules" made The Wyatt momentum hit a low for a while. Hardcore fans really don't believe he can be a threat if he couldn't stop John Cena. A win at Money In The Bank will establish The Wyatt Family as the dominate force in the WWE. If Luke Harper and Erick Rowan win the tag titles and Bray wins the WWE World Heavyweight Championship, this will give The Wyatt's an edge but will lead to interesting storylines, which leads to our second reason.

2. Interesting Storylines
Imagine if The Wyatt Family has all the main titles in their possession. All the babyfaces and heels will be gunning for them. Bray Wyatt's message can finally come to fruition and Harper and Rowan will gain a major push. With The Wyatt Family in power this can lead to some new stables, great feuds and big set up for the return of Daniel Bryan. This can also lead to the expansion of The Wyatt Family as superstars fall prey to Bray's belief and ideals.

3. Daniel Bryan
Even though his title reign was cut short due to his injury, Daniel Bryan needs a strong heel to face when he returns. Dirt sheets claim that Brock Lesnar will be the man Bryan will eventually face. However I think Bray Wyatt is the perfect choice for Daniel Bryan. Watch the chemistry Bray and Daniel had in their match at the Royal Rumble in January. The match was amazing and deserving of being a top contender for match of 2014. I would love to see The Wyatt Family rule until Survivor Series and have a strong showdown with a healthy Daniel Bryan. Bryan has not had a proper heel battle beside Kane, and the big red machine might be looking to retire soon. Bryan needs a good heel to complement him and Bray and The Wyatt Family is up for the job.

4. The Wyatt's Are The Most Interesting Characters We've Seen In WWE For A While
The WWE is trying to find it's footing with all their new talent. Guys like The S.H.I.E.L.D, The Wyatt Family and Ziggler all have bright futures ahead. Well Ziggler needs to get his push but that is another article. Out of all the superstars The Wyatt Family are the most interesting. They remind us of those classic villains who will stop at nothing to fulfill their ideals and beliefs. Bray Wyatt brings a legitimate creepy factor in his promos, his in ring work and something a lot of superstars are not. Bray Wyatt and The Family are BELIEVABLE! Having the eater of worlds actually become that will be beneficial not just to The Wyatt but the WWE in general.