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Twoducks

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    Iron Man 3 (Shane Black is Directing)

    in Anime or Science Fiction

    Posted

    I agree, on both points. And the PTSD was a perfect chance for them to work in the "demon in the bottle," but they completely missed it.

    They already did the “drunk” thing on IM2.

    He almost killed his best friend and a bunch of people because he was drunk. He got his crap together instead of continuing to sob and drink; cutting that is what saved his life.

    Not the whole “fight against alcoholism” some expected (they had to fit Shield and Shield, and a bit more Shield in the movie) but I think the character should be more than that ancient storyline. The movies have turned IM into something more than that “superhero with the suit that is an alcoholic”.

    The movie character has gone beyond that and his evolution over the other three movies appearances could not have him walk backward into that direction.

    The PSTD take was far more interesting than going back to feeling sorry for himself like in IM2. Why?

    - Before Avengers, Tony saw himself as the most powerful being on the planet.

    - In Avengers he was called out for being just a smart ass in a super suit by Cap.

    - In Avengers he barely made it out alive while fighting monsters, aliens and gods.

    - He has something to protect: Pepper.

    - He doesn’t have to deal with the pressure of running his huge company. Girlfriend does that.

    - Why would he hit the bottle when he has to prepare for whatever unexpected thing could pop up now after NY? The movie Tony is a workaholic when he has a goal.

    - Since at the start of IM3 he believes that the suits are what make him able to protect his loved ones he goes crazy overdrive to make even more suits for every possible situation. In his head he is just a puny human without them. No time to drink or sleep, he has to build suits!!

    - Cue IM3…

    DX Chogokin Super VF-27

    in Toys

    Posted

    Interchangeable canopy like the kit. Fantastic! I know the normal one is for stealth but i like the more classic jet look.

    The price for just a mold cannibalizing..... now that sucks unless you can get amiami price on it.

    World War Z

    in Anime or Science Fiction

    Posted

    Got the book like some of you said and I have to say that I find it fantastic. Great attention the detail and the logistics of it all, not just zombie porn. And yes, this movie only has the name and that you see many different countries but that is it.

    For a real adaptation they should do a series or a mockumentary series.

    Iron Man 3 (Shane Black is Directing)

    in Anime or Science Fiction

    Posted

    Fantastic film. The events of the Avangers have a great impact in this one. The Marvel Movieverse is strong as a rock… and is evolving.

    Action is the best out of all the films. And the tension moments are awesome.

    The Mandaring is freaking great as a villain.

    Big spoilers:

    - Great how they make Tony go overdrive out of the fear of a world with gods and aliens running around. He isn’t the top of the food chain anymore and he knows it.

    - Fantastic armor porn. Tons of it. And in very unique ways.

    - Night Shyamalan can only dream of pulling off such a perfect white washing like the one done for the Mandarin :D . And yet we even got Fin Fang Foom and fire breathing. Now to see how they pull off the space racoon…

    - Pepper actually saves the day. She isn’t your typical damsel in distress. Great! Makes it easier to forget the Mary Jane having to be said again and again and again in the original spider trilogy.

    - I actually was more bugged with the kid that with the bad guys super tech. I can suspend my disbelief with the super heated body parts that don’t burn clothes but finding a little smart kid that can go toe to toe in a witty war with Tony just by sheer luck is just impossible. Kid was shoehorned but great. Great chemistry between both.

    - Did I mention that I love the armor porn?

    Evangelion:Q

    in Anime or Science Fiction

    Posted

    I really don't understand the hate here, but whatever.

    In my case it is disappointment.

    The 2.22 movie showed that these were more than a rehash of the series. But 3.33 comes off as a rehash of the feel of the worst parts of the series with an overcomplicated backdrop.

    Evangelion:Q

    in Anime or Science Fiction

    Posted

    Don't forget the preview for 4.0.


    The reuse, yet again, of the two pilots synchronizing trope... maybe Anno’s plan is to deconstruct the gimmick of one of the best episodes of the series by reusing it again and again in a more boring way each time until it implodes into a snorefest anomaly. Two Evas taped together to fight an endless horde of generic identical cannon fodder? Yay!

    Evangelion:Q

    in Anime or Science Fiction

    Posted

    I appreciate the beginning. We share the disorientation Shinji feels. Fantastic. BUT

    Then the 14 years thing starts… yeah, god forbid they get the girls older. The pervs might get rowdy if they can’t fap to preteens. Yeah, yeah, kids pilot the Evas, you can’t have adults there… but the same effect could have been achieved with 7 or 5 years. Other characters really just show some extra wrinkles on their faces and that is it. If you don’t show the world change, why bother to do such a long time jump? To get the new military kids to be 14? Really?


    Shinji looses all he had gained in the other movies. After the circumstances Shinji lives, no wonder. But it still feels like a steep back with the character. Now the last movie will be him regaining his balls. Repetetive.

    The end of the world ritual is getting old too. It’s the third time they’ve had one of those animated. Now if they do it again for the fourth movie I’m going to puke.


    That the events shown in the original trailer after 2.22 are old by this movie shows that they weren’t really that important. Rewatching the trailer fills the wholes very well. You can say that the events were superfluous and didn’t need to be in the movie if just a clip show fills me in perfectly. But the movie itself has the Eva series “artistic” wank moments where character and world fleshing out could have been put instead. Not just the Kaworu/Shinji love affair.

    Action is super intense. Worth to watch. A bit overuse of the circling around. Yeah, computer animated cartoons can let you do that. Great, we get it.

    All in all, I lost interest half way in. 2.22 was way better.

    Armarauders

    in Más o Menos Macross (Otros Animes, Ci-Fi y Aventura)

    Posted

    Don Figueroa will be a familiar name to Transformers fans – he’s worked on numerous TF comics and packaging over the years, as well as helping design some toys for the TF Titanium and Classics series. Several years back, Don met Valent Wang and the two created their own toy company, the Mecha Workshop. Their first project is the creator-owned independent toy line Armarauders.

    1.) For my readers who may be unfamiliar with the project, what is Armarauders?

    DON FIGUEROA: In a nutshell, Armarauders is about Humans getting involved in an intergalactic war of liberation on a distant world using Battle Mechs. but unlike most alien invasion fictions where humans must fight to liberate Earth. we came up with the story where Humans takes the war to the enemy away from Earth.

    2.) How did this project get started?

    VALENT WANG: I actually started out from the video gaming industry, from there it led me to toys. I had a combiner toy project in mind to begin with and many years ago, I initially approached Pat Lee with the idea. We met at a Hong Kong event he was doing for Ecko Unltd [correction: Diesel].

    Fortunately, I Googled him before proceeding, which led me to TFWiki and the whole story. See…I’m based in both Singapore and Hong Kong/China. And over here in Asia, Pat Lee was pretty popular back then, even after DW’s demise. Not many people here knew what really happened…especially me, since I wasn’t too much of a comic fan back then (I’m more of an anime fan).

    Anyway, from the wiki, I learned about Don. I first approached Don with a toy Combiner concept. However, Don wanted an original mech (like the very first Gundam) to start things off. From there, other mechs will be designed and developed off the first mech, Bellerophon. Later designs will be much more radical, ranging from combiners to triple-changers, and all with working cockpits and pilots!

    3.) Please describe the Armarauders universe a bit. What other races exist? What is humanity’s place in the Armarauders cosmos?

    Don: The backstory involves two main alien races, the Runerians and the mysterious invaders who they refer to as “The Wasters.” Runerians are highly evolved humanoids who at the most part, are very peaceful. we clued it in that they ‘may’ have had a hand in human development long ago, but because humans are inherently violent in nature, they have since cut ties with Earth, deeming humans as barbaric creatures. and the Runerians are eventually forgotten.

    But then the Wasters came along. while Runerians pride themselves as enlightened, intellectually and technilogically superior beings, they have no idea to defend themselves when the Wasters arrived. their society fell quickly and those lucky enough to escape the onslaught, headed for the closest developed planet, Earth.

    By this time, Earth is a powder keg, ready to erupt into yet, another World War. over-population, and decreasing resources have made relations between nations very tense. the Runerian’s arrival put things way into perspective. and that a far worst threat is coming, The Wasters. The Runerians thought that the only way to repel one violent race is to pit another violent race against it.

    The Runerians’ more advance FTL drives got them to Earth years ahead, and gave the Humans enough time to plan a counterattack for the incoming invaders. including reluctantly bolstering human weapons with Runerian technology. the Waster’s expeditionary force that was sent after the Runerian refugees where soundly annihilated as they arrive years later.

    The decisive victory gave Humanity the confidence to take another step. this time, adding the Enemy’s mech technology with their own. and to go and take back Runera for their alien benefactors. in exchange, ofcourse, for resources and advanced technology.

    4.) What are some of your influences and inspiration for the development of Armarauders?

    Don: The idea was actually influenced by the first and recent Gulf Wars. I was in high school during the first and it’s where I came up with “what if Kuwait was like an alien civilization who where invaded and they asked Earth for help in exchange for resources?” I always figured the only way the world would really get together is if a much worst threat is on the horizon and we have no choice but to work together if it means our survival.

    For years, I’ve held on to this idea but was unable to get it realized, until now. I’m not much of a wordsmith, especially when it comes to technological lingo and whatnot. but I do have a lot of ideas. It just took a while for someone to actually listen to me icon_smile.gif

    5.) What are the specs of the toys (scale, articulation, accessories etc.)?

    Don: The original plan for the toys is actually to be big enough to accommodate 3¾” pilot figures and I actually built a prototype by hand. But the cost would have been astronomical, both in producing it and in retail. Valent and I decided we should go smaller, first at around 12″, but it was still too big. especially since the first toy would have been technically the smallest of the line – the later toys would have to be enormous compared to it. And as a collector, limited shelf space is something that concerns me as well. Only the coolest toys get the prime real estate.

    Articulation and poseability for me is a high priority. I’m not too fold of “bricks,” especially with today’s toys. but I was also concerned with durability and how the joints will hold long-term. I’d like my toy to be able to keep its arm up while holding a weapon and be able to stand on its own unsupported. and of course Valent and I want accessories up the wazoo.

    Poe’s Note: See the bottom of this interview for a more in-depth look at the articulation, accessories and other specs for the Bellerophon mech.

    6.) What made you decide to produce the toys independently, instead of bringing the property to a company like Hasbro or ThreeA?

    Don: Throughout the years I worked on other robot properties, I never really had the chance with an audience with those who are in charge. In fact, I’ve never even been to any of the studios (Toronto, San Diego or Pawtucket) for any kind of creative meeting to toss in my two cents. I just sat at home and was sent scripts or directions on what needs to be drawn and I do it.

    Once in a while, I would try and send an email telling them I have an idea for a story or character, but never hear back from any of them. But sometimes they’d say “there’s no budget for it” or “we already have plans years ahead” and that was that.

    7.) I’ve read that T-Rex and Action Toys are aiding with the development of the Armarauders. Who are these companies and what is their role in the process?

    Valent: T-REX is in-charge of the toy mech/docking base development. They are a bunch of Japanese guys who are very well versed in toy Mech/Robot designing. If you collect toy mechs, Super Robos or anything robot related, you will most likely have a toy designed by them in your possession.

    Action Toys is in-charge of the toy Pilot development. Noticeably, they are known for producingFEWTURE‘s toyline.

    Both companies are well versed in diecast toys.

    8.) Will Armarauders be available via any retailers, or just your own site?

    Valent: The toys will be available on your preferred online specialty toy store. We are also hoping to get this distributed on Diamond Comics and Amazon.com as well, making them readily available in your local comic stores.

    However, if any fan is having trouble purchasing one, just join our Facebook Unity Group, Armarauders: Unity, and we will personally “customer care” you until you get one!

    9.) What media are you producing alongside the toys?

    Valent: We hope to produce an Anime/Cartoon series and a video game in the (far) future.

    Single issues(printed copies) of the comic can only be obtained when you buy the toys. Single issues will include variant pages different to what you see online, making them “collectible” even though they are free-to-view online. For example, issue #1 will come packed alongside the first toy (Cam’s Full Gear Bellerophon); issue #2 will be packed with the Pegasus Drone, which is an add-on to the Bellerophon; issue #3 with the Command Chiron, and so forth.

    If you are just interested in the comic, you can just wait for the Story ARC-01 trade paperback (Issues #1 to #6), which will essentially be an encyclopedia of sorts containing additional artworks and lore to the Arma-verse.

    For now, feel free to view our free-to-view comics and motion comic (in PDF format).

    High-resolution downloads along with Italian, Japanese, Korean and Chinese translations all available on our Facebook page. And if you are kind enough, please support us on comiXology, 0.99 cents for the Guided View reading technology. On the other hand, if you’re too lazy to read, you can also just

    .

    10.) Any chance of minicomics being included with the toys, Masters of the Universe-style?

    Valent: Full issues will be packed alongside the toys.

    Also, Don did not point this out, but he will be paying homages to both ThunderCats and MotU. He has already designed a mech that has two alternate modes, one of a tank (Thunder Tank anyone?) and the other an animal. And just recently, one of the writers for the recent ThunderCats revamp (2011),Brandon Easton, has joined our team. We are really disappointed that ThunderCats got cancelled…hopefully, he will bring back that little missing piece.

    Also, a He-Man homage is coming up in ARC-01 (Issue #4). It’ll be part of the toyline as well. You’ve to read the comic to find out what kind of toy it’ll be…

    11.) What’s the best way for fans to follow the latest Armarauder developments?

    Valent: Our Facebook page most definitely. We are currently revamping our website, which should be done in about 4-5 months time.

    12.) What’s your current estimate for when pre-orders will go up, and when the Bellerophon will be released?

    Valent: We doing up the actual toy right now (colors, packaging and everything) and will only release the pricing and release date with the actual product pictures. There will also be a run of 300 pieces blank(non-colored) toys made specifically for customizers. These include DVDs that will teach you how to disassemble and repaint the whole toy.

    For More Information about Armarauders:

    BELLEROPHON SPECS

    Bellerophon (Mech) + Pilot (Cam) + Docking Base (Section A)

    Docking Base Gimmicks

    A) Platforms swivel and are detachable/customizable for future add-ons.

    B) The Platform Pillars are detachable/customizable for future add-ons.

    C) The Platform Pillars are symmetrical so you can swap them around.

    D) Switches to raise and lower the Platforms. The height can be adjusted by 9mm(x5 clicks) and can be extended up to 45mm, reaching the Cockpit’s height.

    E) Height of the Docking Arm holding the Bellerophon can be adjusted.

    F) The Platform’s Center Panel can be extended or retracted.

    G) The Docking Arm itself has an extension gimmick too.

    H) Yellow Lines will be Black-and-Yellow-striped(Caution stripes).

    • Docking Base A can be used as a Flight Stand as well, all you need to do is to remove all the customizable parts.

    • Every disassembled part is customizable and replaceable.

    • Docking Bases A are interconnectable on each sides, along with a connection point to the Pegasus Drone’s Mobile Stand at the back (Docking Base B).

    • Docking Base B can be combined with Docking Base A.

    • Docking Base B will come with the Pegasus Drone toy add-on.

    • Docking Base B has rubber tank tracks.

    Mech Gimmicks

    Full Gear Bellerophon (Cam’s Custom)

    • Mech Toy – 9 inches / 23cm (Head to toe).

    • Detachable armors and weapons with universal slots for future add-ons and customization.

    • Pegasus Drone add-on ready.

    • Has a functioning cockpit.

    Articulation

    83 Points of articulation in total (Armor/Add-on Ball Joints included).

    • Head – 3 Points (x1)

    • Chest – 1 Point (x1)

    • Cockpit – 1 Point (x1)

    • Waist – 3 Points (x2)

    • Back – 4 Points (x2)

    • Shoulder – 3 Points (x2)

    • Arm – 5 Points (x2)

    • Hand – 15 Points (x2)

    • Leg – 6 Points (x2)

    • Foot – 3 Points (x2)

    Loadout

    Weapons

    • Tri-Blades (x2)(Cam’s Custom Exclusive Only not available with Blank Toys)

    • Medium Rifles (x2)(4 Ammo Clips)

    • Ammo Clip Holder (x2)

    • Short/Medium-Range Shoulder Missile-Pods (x2)

    • Medium-Range Mounted Shoulder Cannons (x2)

    Armor

    • Heavy Duty Shoulder Shields (x2)

    • Elbow Shields (x2)

    • Leg Shields (x2)(With Compartments)

    • Knee Shields (x2)

    • Back Heavy-Thrusters (x2)

    • Anti-Gravity Movement Thrusters (x2)

    • Waist Medium-Thrusters (x2)

    Pilot Gimmicks

    Bellerophon Basic Pilot – Cameron Knox

    Pilot Toy – 2 Inches / 5 cm with 12 Points of Articulation.

    P.A.C – Personal Artillery Component

    Anti-Wastermech Cannons and Jetpack with 2 Points of Articulation.

    D.A.R.C – Dual Assault Rifles Component

    Anti-Infantry Rifles that combine to become Pilot’s Backpack/Component.

    • D.A.R.C stackable on P.A.C. The D.A.R.C can be plugged into Pilot’s back directly as well.

    • Pilot and all his Weapons can be stored inside the Mech’s cockpit.

    La pego (pero sin las fotos para no robar ancho de banda). En el proyecto colaboran T-Rex y Action Toys.

    Medicom/Hot Toys and all 1/6 scale figures

    in Anime or Science Fiction

    Man of Steel - Superman movie has a director

    in Anime or Science Fiction

    Posted

    Finally a Superman film that goes for the visual "super"! I still haven't woken up from the snorefest that was the last movie...

    Playarts toys look cool. Like the new Supes suit:

    http://www.amiami.com/top/detail/review?scode=FIG-KAI-5258&page=top

    http://www.amiami.com/top/detail/review?scode=FIG-KAI-5259&page=top

    Armarauders

    in Más o Menos Macross (Otros Animes, Ci-Fi y Aventura)

    Posted

    Un proyecto que estoy siguiendo con mucha atención. Me gustan los diseños de Don Figueroa y la verdad es que los juguetes, a juzgar por el prototipo, podrían ser una maravilla.

    Pongo una entrevista en la que se habla del trasfondo y de los juguetes (con fotos). Dentro de ella también hay enlaces a los tres primeros números del comic:

    http://www.poeghostal.com/2013/04/interview-valent-wang-and-don-figueroa-on-armarauders.html

    ¡Necesito que hagan el robominotauro YA!

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