Stan Lee and 'Downton Abbey' Producer Team on New U.K. Series, 'Lucky Man'

Still going strong! Lee is a 'Lucky Man'

Legendary comic book master, Stan Lee is excited to be heading over the Pond for a go at some U.K. TV. The pay TV channel, Sky 1 made an announcement yesterday that Lee has teamed with Downton Abbey producer, Carnival Films. They will be bringing to fruition Lee's original idea with the ten-part series, Lucky Man.

The series will debut in 2016 on Sky 1 and, according to Variety, "...will be distributed globally by NBCUniversal International Distribution." Lucky Man will star James Nesbitt ("The Hobbit" trilogy, "The Missing"), Eve Best ("Nurse Jackie," "The Honorable Woman") and Sienna Guillory ("Fortitude," "Luther," "Love Actually").

Variety offers the series description as, "...the story of detective Harry Clayton (James Nesbitt), a cop from Central London’s notorious Murder Squad, who is given a charm that seems to confer upon the wearer the ability to control luck. Harry is down on his luck: his wife (Eve Best) and child have left him due to his gambling habit, his boss thinks he’s in league with the devil, and he has a huge debt to an infamous underworld crime boss who is threatening his life. A chance meeting with a mysterious woman who gives him an ancient bracelet changes everything… It appears to give Harry control over luck itself."

Sounds pretty cool, right? Lee was quoted as saying, “Luck has always been a fascinating subject to me, and I am excited to finally share that fascination with audiences around the world.” The very lucky indeed 92-year-old goes on to mention, "With all the creative projects I have worked on, I sure am a lucky man myself and I am excited to be working with Sky 1 and Carnival Films on this latest project."

Executive producer Richard Fell further describes the series, “‘Lucky Man’ is a different kind of superhero show — Stan has come up with an absolutely brilliant idea; something that we can all relate to. What if you could control luck? Would that be the greatest thing you could give someone, or their worst nightmare? It’s a twist which brings the whole superhero genre right back down to earth.”

We'll keep you posted on when we can watch here in the States.

-Larissa Mrykalo

First Look at "Supergirl" Costume

Production begins this week for the "Supergirl" pilot from Warner Bros. Television and the first images of her costume have been revealed. Based on the DC Comics characters, the new CBS series stars Melissa Benoist as Kara Danvers/Kara Zor-El and Supergirl.

From the release:

The costume for Supergirl was designed by three-time Oscar® winner Colleen Atwood, who also designed the costumes for The Flash & Arrow and whose motion picture credits include Academy Awards® for her work on Alice in Wonderland, Memoirs of a Geisha and Chicago, as well as eight additional Oscar® nominations for films such as Into the Woods, Snow White and the Huntsman, Sweeney Todd: The Demon Barber of Fleet Street and Sleepy Hollow, among others.

Colleen Atwood said, “In designing Supergirl, I wanted to embrace the past, but more importantly, thrust her into the street-style action hero of today.”

Born on the planet Krypton, Kara Zor-El escaped amid its destruction years ago. Since arriving on Earth, she’s been hiding the powers she shares with her famous cousin. But now at age 24, she decides to embrace her superhuman abilities and become the hero she was destined to be.

The Supergirl pilot is from executive producers/writers Greg Berlanti, Ali Adler and Andrew Kreisberg. Sarah Schechter is also executive producing, with Glen Winter directing.

Check out her new threads and let us know what you think. I'm digging the traditional look.

-Larissa Mrykalo

Marvel's 'Secret Wars' Officially Announced

Every part of the present Marvel business model will be on display this May with the release of Secret Wars. It's another event-driven plot that basically issues a relaunch of titles where hints of resurrected heroes come in to play. That covers the big three things, right? At a live announcement today, Editor-in-Chief, Axel Alonso, and Senior VP and Executive Editor, Tom Brevoort, officially unveiled plans for the MU-changing Secret Wars it has been teasing for months now.

Did you think all those teaser covers of past Marvel events were just gratuitous, tongue-in-cheek ways of paying homage to Marvel history? Well, they were, but they also served the purpose of giving fans a preview of each world that will be inhabiting Battleworld, even if they didn't realize it. Battleworld looks a lot like Earth. In fact, it is Earth, but after the conclusion of the Time Runs Out thread that's been playing out through Avengers and New Avengers for the past couple of years. Jonathan Hickman will continue the meta-plot he's been guiding in Avengers and New Avengers since their respective relaunches and help create an entirely new world for Marvel with Esad Ribic manning the pencils.

First Look at the CW's New Series, 'iZombie'

The new CW series, "iZombie," premieres on Tuesday, March 17 at 9 p.m. ET and now we have a first look at what we can expect from the adaptation of the Chris Roberson and Michael Allred-created DC comic book series.

Taken from its official Facebook page, the premise of the series reads as follows:

Olivia “Liv” Moore was a rosy-cheeked, disciplined, over-achieving medical resident who had her life path completely mapped out, until the night she attended a party that unexpectedly turned into a zombie feeding frenzy. Afterward, she had become part zombie and currently works at a coroner's office so she can eat brains so she can survive, which gave her a useful ability to get the memories from said brains to help solve homicide mysteries.

The series stars Rose McIver as Olivia "Liv" Moore; Robert Buckley as Major Lilywhite; Malcolm Goodwin as Clive Babinaux; David Anders as Blaine DeBeers; and, Rahul Kohli as Dr. Ravi Chakrabarti. Executive producers include: Rob Thomas ("Veronica Mars"); Diane Ruggiero; Dan Etheridge; and Danielle Stokdyk.



-Larissa Mrykalo

Preview of New Marvel Comic, 'Star Wars (2015) #1'

Courtesy Marvel

The world's of Marvel and Star Wars collide this week with the January 14 release of "Star Wars #1." Thanks to Marvel, we can get a sneak peek at some of the pages of where creators Jason Aaron and John Cassaday pick up from the events of Star Wars: Episode IV A New Hope.

After the synopsis (courtesy of Marvel) check out the pages from Cassady...

THE GREATEST SPACE ADVENTURE OF ALL TIME RETURNS TO MARVEL! Luke Skywalker and the ragtag band of rebels fighting against the Galactic Empire are fresh off their biggest victory yet—the destruction of the massive battle station known as the Death Star. But the Empire’s not toppled yet! Join Luke along with Princess Leia, smugglers Han Solo and Chewbacca, droids C-3PO and R2-D2 and the rest of the Rebel Alliance as they strike out for freedom against the evil forces of Darth Vader and his master, the Emperor. Written by Jason Aaron (Original Sin, Thor: God of Thunder) and with art by John Cassaday (Astonishing X-Men, Uncanny Avengers), this is the Star Wars saga as only Marvel Comics could make it!

Ryan Buell to Release 'Power Rangers' Graphic Novel

Courtesy Ryan Buell's Facebook

Over the past week, former "Paranormal State" star, Ryan Buell has been making several announcements over on his Facebook page, namely that he has a new comic book hitting stores on November 25. Below is what he posted on November 20:

My first comic book hits stores next week. I love "Power Rangers" so I jumped at the chance to help add to the canon. This issue tells the back story of the green ranger. We all, as kids, wanted to know more about him. So, Saban Entertainment, Stefan and Papercutz allowed me to play god and create his backstory. Oddly enough he looks more and more like me. Mwahahahhaaha! Just kidding. If you're a Power Rangers nerd, give me a shout out! And please buy the issue. I tried to make it funny as hell. And some inside jokes also!!! http://papercutz.com/shop-all/mighty-morphin-power-rangers-vol-2.

Here is the description for the comic:

This is the story Mighty Morphin Power Rangers fans have been waiting over 20 years for—the untold story of the origins of Tommy—the Green Ranger! How did Rita Repulsa choose this teen over others to wage war against the Rangers? This is the only place to find out.

Note to fans: This graphic novel takes place right before the classic Mighty Morphin Power Rangers episode “Green with Evil.”

Marvel Studios Unveils Phase 3 of its Cinematic Universe

Marvel Studios revealed some huge news today during a special event at the El Capitan Theatre in Hollywood. As fans followed along via a live blog, Marvel Studios President Kevin Feige revealed the films that will make up Phase 3 of the Marvel Cinematic Universe, featuring a mix of fan-favorite characters and several heroes who will be making their big-screen debuts.

A full press release has been issued so we can break down this cool news including that the next two films to be released by Marvel are "Avengers: Age of Ultron" on May 1, 2015, and "Ant-Man" on July 17, 2015. The dates and titles of nine additional films through 2019, including upcoming Captain America, Thor, Avengers and Guardians of the Galaxy installments, along with films featuring Black Panther – who, Feige announced, will be played by Chadwick Boseman – Captain Marvel, Doctor Strange, and the Inhumans. Here is the remainder of the release with the crucial dates:

The announced films are as follows:

· 5/1/15 – AVENGERS: AGE OF ULTRON
· 7/17/15 – ANT-MAN
· 5/6/16 – CAPTAIN AMERICA: CIVIL WAR
· 11/4/16 – DOCTOR STRANGE
· 5/5/17 – GUARDIANS OF THE GALAXY 2 (previously dated 7/28/17)
· 7/28/17 – THOR: RAGNAROK
· 11/3/17 – BLACK PANTHER
· 5/4/18 – AVENGERS: INFINITY WAR PART I
· 7/6/18 – CAPTAIN MARVEL
· 11/2/18 – INHUMANS
· 5/3/19 – AVENGERS: INFINITY WAR PART II

Marvel Teams With STOMP Out Bullying for National Bullying Prevention Month

This gets us right in the feels. Marvel Entertainment has recruited some of its biggest heroes to STOMP out bullying and is releasing some awesome variant covers for this new campaign. October is National Bullying Prevention Month and the likes of Captain America, Hulk and some of the cool cats (and raccoons) from "Guardians of the Galaxy" are on board. After the press release, check out the covers, compliments of Marvel. Let us know what you think and please spread the word.

Marvel Entertainment is enlisting its biggest super heroes to bring added awareness of the problems of bullying. This October, Marvel will join forces with STOMP Out Bullying™, the leading national bullying and cyberbullying prevention organization for kids and teens in the U.S., to launch a special variant cover program to commemorate National Bullying Prevention Month and support STOMP's relentless efforts to stop this growing epidemic. Throughout the month of October, the world's most popular super heroes – Captain America, the Avengers, the Guardians of the Galaxy and more – will be featured on all-new variant covers to spotlight both National Bullying Prevention Month and STOMP's Blue Shirt Day® World Day of Bullying Prevention. The variant issues will be available exclusively at comic shops.

Marvel San Diego Comic-Con Recap

BY DAVID BERCK

A lot of things went down at San Diego Comic Con this year. Some people on the floor said it seemed more low key, but there was still plenty of buzz happening. As one of the "big two" in comics, Marvel certainly had a good amount of announcements going on and here's a somewhat brief recap of some of what went on.

For Marvel's cinematic universe, it was announced that Evangeline Lilly will portray Hope Pym, the daughter of Hank Pym (Michael Douglas), in Ant-Man. The movie is starting production this month, which is a little nerve wracking for some of the fandom, but Empire sat down with Marvel movie boss, Kevin Feige, and he reports that everything is fine, pointing to the time table for Iron Man 3 which was much more visually demanding. Corey Stoll was introduced as the villain, Yellowjacket. Interestingly enough, this character had a whole two-issue life span in the comics but is using a hero name that was a popular iteration for Hank Pym as an Avenger.

IDW Announces 'Orphan Black' Comic Book Series

Courtesy IDW

Despite its snub at the Emmys, fans really dig the BBC America hit, "Orphan Black" and IDW Publishing paid attention. They just announced at Comic-Con that coming in 2015 is a new comic book series based on the show. Details were released yesterday via a press release from IDW and it revealed that not only will it not be cloning the show, it'll offer new story lines set in the show's world.

Here is the announcement from IDW:

Orphan Black, the acclaimed sci-fi series by Temple Street Productions, assumes a new identity in the form of a comic-book series from IDW Publishing. IDW’s series will not be a clone of the show but will feature some all-new stories set in the complex and thrilling world of Orphan Black.

“Orphan Black, in addition to being a captivating TV series, is a perfect premise for comics,” said Chris Ryall, IDW’s Chief Creative Officer/Editor-in-Chief. “And as the second season has expanded the series in exciting new directions, that has only increased the amount of stories we’ll be able to tell in comic-book form.”

Syfy Adapting Frank Miller's 'Ronin' and Jonathan Hickman's 'Pax Romana'

It was a busy day for announcements over at Syfy. In addition to announcing a third "Sharknado" film and seven new unscripted projects that are in the works, they revealed they will "develop as longform programming 'Pax Romana,' Jonathan Hickman’s graphic novel about a time traveling clash of ages and arms, and 'Ronin,' based on Frank Miller’s ('300') comic book series, about an avenging samurai."

The release provides details on "Pax Romana"and "Ronin:"

"Pax Romana" is about a Special Forces team that travels back in time on the eve of World War III to “fix” the future by altering the past. Their destination: Ancient Rome. Roman legions battle modern day attack helicopters, tanks and soldiers, while thought-provoking themes are explored as the leaders of the expedition fight over their vision for civilization. Writers: Matthew Federman & Stephen Scaia (Jericho, Warehouse 13, Human Target). Co-executive producer: Jonathan Hickman. Executive producers: David Alpert of Circle of Confusion (The Walking Dead), Federman and Scaia. A production of Universal Cable Productions.

In "Ronin," published by DC Entertainment, eight centuries after a Japanese Ronin samurai failed to protect his master from a demon, he awakens in a futuristic, nihilistic New York in the body of Billy, a medical experiment. Now Billy/Ronin is chasing the demon, which has reawakened. Both parties want control of a sword with magical properties and will stop at nothing to get it back. Studio: Warner Horizon.

-Larissa Mrykalo

Zack Snyder to Direct 'Justice League' Film

Courtesy The Wall Street Journal

Thanks to a Wall Street Journal exclusive interview with Warner Bros. president of worldwide production Greg Silverman, the news that the studio has set plans to make a “Justice League” movie has been revealed. Silverman stated that not only will a "Justice League" film follow 2016's "Superman vs. Batman" but Zack Snyder will be directing the film. And yes, Silverman was quoted as calling the "Man of Steel" sequel "Superman vs. Batman." He stated, “It will be a further expansion of this universe. ’Superman vs Batman’ will lead into ‘Justice League.’” So does this mean we have the official title for the MOS sequel? Seems too easy.

The "Justice League" script is currently in development and it is expected that Henry Cavill will return as Superman, Ben Affleck will reprise his role Batman and Gal Gadot will play Wonder Woman. There is no release date but the film will most likely not be in theaters before 2018. Based on Marvel's track record, they should really step it up. There is no definite word on what other Justice Leaguers will join their three friends, but Green Lantern, Aquaman and Flash obviously can't be ruled out.  The "Superman vs. Batman" film recently added Ray Fisher as "Cyborg" so he may appear as well.

Regarding a Wonder Woman spin-off, the WSJ mentioned that "Warner executives said they are warm to the idea" and president of worldwide marketing, Sue Kroll, reveals, “That is our hope. With the right script, that could be viable. The world is ready for her.”

So what do you think about the "Justice League" film news? Is DC going to give Marvel a run for their money or has Marvel cornered the market on superhero success? Let's try to forget the "Green Lantern" film and hold on to hope!

-Larissa Mrykalo

'Flash Gordon' Reboot a Possibility Thanks to Fox

Courtesy THR

FLASH! Ahh ahh! Is coming back to the big screen? (You better have read that to Queen's song.)

According to an exclusive from The Hollywood Reporter, it looks like the savior of the universe will be approaching a theater near you thanks to a deal that's been in the works for quite some time. This is what they're reporting about a "Flash Gordon" reboot, "Twentieth Century Fox has closed a deal to pick up the screen rights to the pulp comic-strip hero in a package that has John Davis producing and J.D. Payne and Patrick McKay, the up-and-coming scribes who just worked on "Star Trek 3," on board to write the script."

The project will be lead by Fox exec Matt Reilly who, according to THR, "identified the project early and brought it into the studio." There is no word on what the reboot will look like or if it'll be as gloriously cheesy as the 1980 film that starred Sam Jones.

Which celebs would you cast in the roles of Flash, Dale Arden, Hans Zasrkov and Ming the Merciless? We'll keep you posted on any more details on this project but in the meantime, here's a little treat to get you pumped...



-Larissa Mrykalo

'The X-Files: Year Zero' Coming This July From IDW

Courtesy IDW

IDW Publishing recently announced some news to makes fans of "The X-Files" very happy. An original tale and the case that "started it all" will debut this July in a brand-new five-issue miniseries called "The X-Files: Year Zero." The release reveals the plot, "In the 1940s, a shadowy informant known as 'Mr. Xero directed the FBI to a number of paranormal cases that would soon be classified as 'X-Files,' which were reserved for the improbable and unexplainable. When faced with an eerily similar 'Mr. Zero' in the present, Agent Mulder resolves to uncover the truth about who this mystery person is and their connection to these cases."

The talented team is introduced via the release:

The multi-talented veteran Karl Kesel ("FF," "Superboy") makes his debut at IDW as the writer on the series. Vic Malhotra (The X-Files: Conspiracy: The Crow) and Greg Scott ("The X-Files: Season 10") will be splitting art duties with Malhotra providing the art for the 1940s sequences and Scott drawing the present day storyline. Covers will be provided by Season 10’s Carlos Valenzuela, with pulp-novel-inspired subscription variants by Robert Hack ("Doctor Who") and a retailer incentive cover by Eisner Award-winner Francesco Francavilla for the first installment.

Zenescope to Debut Season 10 of 'Charmed' Comic Book This Fall

"Charmed" fans, be prepared to be bewitched with the announcement that Zenescope Entertainment and CBS Consumer Products are bringing the series back to comic book and graphic novel formats this Fall. Zenescope is responsible for the publication of the first 24 issues of "Charmed" from June 2010 through September 2012.

The Constance M. Burge-created TV series aired from 1998 through 2006 and starred Holly Marie Combs, Alyssa Milano, Rose McGowan and Shannen Doherty. The TV show may have ended in 2006 but it found a new life as original comics when Zenescope began publishing 'Season 9' four years ago. The press release revealed that Zenescope "...will release a brand new 'Season 10' in an on-going monthly comic book series with trade paperback collections released twice each year."

Ralph Tedesco, Zenescope Editor-in-Chief said, “I’m so glad to announce this news. 'Charmed' fans are an extremely rabid and loyal group. They write us all the time, asking about Season 10 since it’s been almost two years since the last issue was released. We’re happy to let them all know that it’s been worth the wait -- we’re coming back with a brand new arc and a ton of surprises that we feel will absolutely satisfy hardcore 'Charmed' fans, while also appealing to new readers.”

When exactly can we expect this? According to the release, "The first issue of Season 10 will debut at New York Comic Con the weekend of October 9, 2014.  Original comic book series writer Paul Ruditis will edit the series and Zenescope writer Pat Shand ('Angel,' 'Robyn Hood') takes the helm penning the new arc. The art team will be announced next month."

-Larissa Mrykalo

Images and Trailer for 'Afterlife With Archie #4' ... On Sale Today

"Afterlife with Archie #4" is on sale today but you could also check out these images and trailer for the comic book. Written by Roberto Aguirre-Sacasa and art by Francesco Francavilla and Jack Morelli, "Escape From Riverdale" looks zombtastic. Check out the official description below with the images and trailer after the jump. A special 10% off everything "Afterlife With Archie" ends today so head here and enter the promo code UNDEAD10 to claim the deal.

With two more members of our beloved gang infected by the dreadful zombie-virus, Riverdale’s one sanctuary—Lodge Mansion—has been compromised. The kids are left to make a significant decision—do they stay and fight or flee the only town they’ve ever known? Meanwhile, Archie makes a horrific discovery in his own home, one that may cost him his life!

Two Brand New "Doctor Who" Comics From Titan Comics Coming Soon

Titan Comics is releasing two all new "Doctor Who" comic series and we've got a sneak peek at the covers for both issues!

First up, the Tenth Doctor will be returning in a brand new on-going series, which means a new companion and adventures throughout all of time and space. The first five issue arc will be presented by artist Elena Casagrande and written by Eisner Award winner, Nick Abadzis. The second arc will come from series architect Robbie Morrison.

The Eleventh Doctor will also be getting a new on-going series, taking on that wibbly-wobbly thing we call time and yelling "Geronimo!" in the face of danger. Series architects Rob Williams and Al Ewing, along with artist Simon Fraser, will be taking helm
of the TARDIS for this new series with the Eleventh Doctor.

If both first issue covers look familiar, they are by Alice X. Zhang, who's Doctor Who artwork has been floating around the internet unnamed for quite awhile. Doctor Who: The Tenth Doctor and The Eleventh Doctor will hit shelves July 23, 2014. Until then, just keep Ponding and check out the gorgeous first issue covers below. Allons-y!

FX's 'The Strain' to Offer Rejuvenation Pods at SXSW Festival

For those of you heading to the South by Southwest (SXSW) festival in Austin, Texas, we've got a little relief for you. The FX network understands how utterly exhausting these shindigs can be, so they've decided to set up "The Strain Rejuvenation Station" to perk up all you weary fest attendees! Now, what exactly is a rejuvenation station? For 20 minutes you will be able to catch some zzz's in a nap pod, while exclusive content from the new FX show, "The Strain," plays on a tablet. The press release gives a bit more insight, so here are all the exciting details!

FX is bringing relief to fatigued South by Southwest attendees in Austin, Texas. The Strain Transformation Station will provide participants with the chance to recover from "the strain" of SXSW with 20-minute power naps inside custom-built Rejuvenation Pods. The pods are equipped with tablets showcasing exclusive content from the new FX original series, "The Strain."

The Strain Transformation Station
·Operating from March 7 through March 10, 12:00pm - 6:00pm · Located in the prominent downtown Austin location 419 Congress Ave. @ 5th Street
·A hostess will be on hand to book power-nap appointments in 10 Rejuvenation Pods with additional sitting area/lounge
·Appointments may also be booked ahead of time through the custom mobile site (www.thestrainpods.com)
·The Strain Vaccine (branded energy shots) will be distributed in and around the venue
·The Strain novels and special-edition comic books will be available for takeaway

Take a Peek Into George Romero's 'Empire of the Dead #3'

If you haven't checked out George Romero's "Empire of the Dead" comics yet, you should definitely get on it. The grisly tales of post apocalyptic New York being overtaken by zombies and vampires is brought to life by artist Alex Maleev.

The third installment will be hitting shops on March 23, so don't forget to shuffle to your local store and pick it up! While you wait, here's a preview of the next issue:

"This March, the pulse-pounding horror epic continues in 'Empire of the Dead #3' – from the mind of Zombie Godfather George Romero and drawn by critically acclaimed artist Alex Maleev! Zombies roam the streets of a plague-ridden Manhattan by day. And Vampires feast on humans by night! Something is rotten in the big apple. Someone moves to strike against the mayor from the shadows. Who is the firecracker known as Dixie Peach? And as whispers of a full-scale zombie uprising stir – where does that leave the last remaining humans? Find out when George Romero's 'Empire of the Dead #3' shambles its way into comic shops this March!"

-Nowal Massari

ReedPOP Announces Special Edition: NYC

Love comic books right down to every little detail, but find yourself kind of left out of the convention scene? Well, chin up friend, because a new convention is coming your way! ReedPOP, the people behind events such as C2E2 and New York Comic Con, have developed a brand new convention specifically for "die hard comic book fans, creators and publishers!"

A press release from ReedPOP gives more detail: "As you know, ReedPOP puts on great events like New York Comic Con and C2E2 and we are very excited to announce our newest event - Special Edition: NYC! Being held June 14-15 in New York City, hosted in Javits Center North, Special Edition: NYC will focus on creators, artists, dealers and publishers and is expected to attract 25,000 Fans over the two day event. Special Edition: NYC will celebrate the love of comic books, cartooning, illustration and the graphic arts. We already have a great lineup of Guests and will have many more exciting Guests announced in the coming weeks."

So far the line-up of guests, or Creators, is pretty impressive. Fans can expect to be in the presence of people such as Alex Maleev, Dustin Nguyen, Jenny Frison, Frank Cho, Marguerite Bennett and many more! Be sure to keep checking the Creator's page for updates.

Tickets go on sale for the event February 26 at 12 p.m. ET, so be sure to snatch some up while you can! This inaugural convention is definitely something you won't want to miss.

-Nowal Massari