Morgana Plots an All-Out Assault on Camelot

While Arthur is Pre-Occupied by a New Love Interest

in Friday’s All-New Episode of MERLIN

’Entourage,’ ‘Human Target’ star Janet Montgomery woos Bradley James

in ‘The Hunter’s Heart’ episode, airing March 16 at 10 p.m. ET/PT on Syfy

As Arthur seeks to soothe his wounded heart, Morgana mounts the ultimate plot to destroy his kingdom and steal the throne in “The Hunter’s Heart,” an all-new episode MERLIN premiering this Friday, March 16 at 10 p.m. ET/PT only on Syfy.

The fourth season of MERLIN has seen the series’ audience grow to its largest ever since MERLIN began airing on Syfy, reaching an average of 2.3 million people a week through live and DVR viewing. Ratings have also been buoyed by the availability of MERLIN on iTunes – where both individual episodes as well as all three full previous seasons are available for purchase and download.

In “The Hunter’s Heart,” the Kingdom of Camelot – and Arthur – are preoccupied by the arrival of the beautiful Princess Mithian (Janet Montgomery), with whom Arthur has pledged to form both a political and romantic alliance. Merlin suspects Arthur’s heart is still broken over his banishment of Guinevere, and attempts to sidetrack the immediate attraction between the royals – with little success.

While Arthur is distracted by a new love, Morgana’s hatred comes to full boil as she plots a siege on Camelot that leaves only an absent friend to possibly raise the alarm: Guinevere. But with past wounds still raw, can love really conquer all? Or is a deadly arrow destined to fly straight into the heart of Camelot?

Janet Montgomery is no stranger to U.S. audiences, boasting film credits including the Academy Award-nominated Black Swan and Our Idiot Brother, and recurring roles on the popular television series Entourage and Human Target. Bradley James was particularly enthused with the casting of Montgomery, and their instant on-screen chemistry is reflective of their off-screen friendship.

“Janet has always had bags of energy and enthusiasm and is full of ideas,” James explains, “and her personality is one that many want to be around. So I was very pleased when I found out we'd be working together when she got the role of Mithian.”

Merlin’s magical interventions to cause separation between Arthur and Mithian lead to one comical moment after another, mostly involving an awkward instance of clumsiness or offense by Arthur. To Merlin’s frustration, Mithian’s reaction is one of accepting laughter. When Merlin prompts an unexpected series of burps from Arthur during a romantic picnic, even James was surprised to witness his pal Montgomery’s response.

“One skill I had not learnt Janet possessed in my years of knowing her was her incredible ability to belch at a volume I had not previously thought possible by a human being,” James says with a laugh. “This came in particularly handy for a scene between the two of us where she came close to bursting my ear drum with a ferocious example of her belching skills. Following this display, she smiled sweetly and posed a picture of innocence. Janet Montgomery … hidden talents.”

“The Hunter’s Heart,” an all-new episode of MERLIN, airs Friday, March 16 at 10 p.m. ET/PT only on Syfy.  All three previous seasons of MERLIN are available on DVD and on iTunes.

Be sure to follow the latest news on MERLIN at the Official Merlin page on Facebook.

THE DAME'S A THREE-TIME SELL-OUT

FATALE #3 sells out, gets 2nd printing

FATALE #3, the latest issue of the horror noir comic by Ed Brubaker and Sean Phillips, sold out a week before its in-store date of March 14. This marks the third issue in a row of the Image Comics series to sell out, making it the best-selling of Brubaker's and Phillips' collaborations to date. A second printing has already been scheduled and it will be in stores on April 4, the same day as FATALE #4.

Initial orders for FATALE #3 increased from those of FATALE #2, but it still was not enough to meet demand for the issue, continuing the trend for the series. FATALE #1 has already gone into a fourth printing and FATALE #2 has reached three printings.

"I'm completely blown away by the response to Fatale, from even our long-time fans and retail supporters. I feel like we're an overnight success, twelve years into our collaborative career," said Brubaker. "And let me tell you, this story is just getting started."

Centering on a beautiful, mysterious — and dangerous — woman named Jo who has ruined every man who has crossed her path, FATALE holds hints of supernatural horror and more than a touch of evil.

FATALE is a full-color comic book series available in comic book stores and multiple digital platforms. Each issue has 24 pages of ad-free story, plus essays on horror and noir fiction by Jess Nevins and Charles Kelly that will not be reprinted in collections.

ABOUT IMAGE COMICS
Image Comics is a comic book and graphic novel publisher founded in 1992 by a collective of best-selling artists. Image has since gone on to become one of the largest comics publishers in the United States. Image currently has five partners: Robert Kirkman, Erik Larsen, Todd McFarlane, Marc Silvestri and Jim Valentino. It consists of five major houses: Todd McFarlane Productions, Top Cow Productions, Shadowline, Skybound and Image Central. Image publishes comics and graphic novels in nearly every genre, sub-genre, and style imaginable. It offers science fiction, romance, horror, crime fiction, historical fiction, humor and more by the finest artists and writers working in the medium today. For more information, visit www.imagecomics.com.

ARE WE ALONE? CONTINUES WITH THE WORLD PREMIERE OF ALIEN ENCOUNTERS FOLLOWED BY

NASA’S UNEXPLAINED FILES ON SCIENCE

--The World Premiere of ALIEN ENCOUNTERS: THE ARRIVAL Premieres on Tuesday, March 20

at 10:00 PM ET/PT

NASA’S UNXPLAINED FILES Premieres on Tuesday, March 20 at 10:00 PM ET/PT--

ALIEN ENCOUTNERS explores the possible ways alien life might communicate with Earth. In part two of this riveting special, some of the world’s leading scientists explain the scientific, cultural and psychological effects a first contact with aliens would have on humans.  Then, NASA’S UNEXPLAINED FILES gives viewers first-hand accounts of mysterious sightings witnessed by NASA astronauts.  ALIEN ENCOUNTERS and NASA’S UNEXPLAINED FILES are a part of SCIENCE’s Are We Alone? initiative happening the entire month of March.

Episode Descriptions:

ALIEN ENCOUNTERS: The Arrival premieres on Tuesday, March 20 at 10 PM (ET/PT)

In two dramatic hours, ALIEN ENCOUNTERS lays out a plausible hypothetical scenario for a first contact event. What would really happen if we got a message from space? How will humans react when we learn that a message from a distant technology or a spacecraft is on its way to Earth? Will humans learn from aliens, or become colonial subjects? Some of the world’s leading astrophysicists, astrobiologists, and sci-fi writers help unravel the scientific, cultural and psychological impact of this world-changing global event. This show is made in cooperation with The SETI Institute which was founded in 1984 and had renowned astrophysicist Carl Sagan as one of its Board of Trustee Members. Carl’s son Nick is now following in his father’s footsteps wondering, “How will we meet our galactic neighbors?”

NASA’S UNEXPLAINED FILES premieres Tuesday, March 27 at 10 PM (ET/PT)

Countless mysterious objects have been caught by NASA’s cameras.    In this special, we’ll reveal NASA’s top ten unexplained encounters using original footage and groundbreaking interviews with astronauts and scientists.  Can these phenomena be explained away through science and detective work?  Or have NASA’s cameras potentially captured the first traces of extraterrestrial life?

New Web TV Comedy Series Launches On YouTube
Featuring cast of well-known entertainers

MANSFIELD, Mass.  (March 14, 2012):  Plymouth Rock Creative (PRC), a digital production company and IP creative house founded in 2011 in Massachusetts, debuted its first comedic web TV series “Adults Only” on YouTube on March 7.  The series features well-known entertainers including Danny Nucci (Titanic), Vincent Pastore (The Sopranos), Brian Austin Green (Beverly Hills, 90210), Sebastian Bach (former lead singer of Skid Row), Brianna Brown (General Hospital), Ronnie Marmo (General Hospital), Adrienne LaValley (National Floors Direct Television Spokeswoman), and indie actor Todd Poudrier.

Despite its risqué title, “Adults Only” content is equivalent to a PG-13 rating (at best), as its title originates from the unique setting of the series: an adult video and novelty store. The web TV series is comprised of eight, 8 – 10 minute episodes and was shot in six days on location in Mansfield and North Attleboro, Massachusetts using a hand-held camera in high definition and quality sound modes. PRC is breaking new ground with this project because they are one of the first digital production companies focused exclusively on producing digital content for digital platforms.

“Adults Only” follows the life of Chance Rioux (played by Todd Poudrier), a middle aged former Olympian who must take a management job at an adult video and novelty store that his brother-in-law Mitch (played by Vincent Pastore) owns in order to make ends meet. While trying to conceal his identity from the public and adjusting to his new life, Chance meets Kris (played by Brianna Brown), a diner waitress who he develops a crush on and visits frequently to escape the hysteria of his employees Larissa (played by Adrienne LaValley), Crotch (played by Ronnie Marmo), Shifty (played by Sebastian Bach) and customers.  The series follows Chance through the ups and downs of his new life and the hilarious encounters he must face as manager of an adult store.

The comedy in “Adults Only” is similar in style to groundbreaking television sitcoms such as “It’s Always Sunny in Philadelphia” (FX), “The Office” (NBC), “Arrested Development” (FOX), “Happy Endings” (ABC), “30 Rock” (NBC), and “Community” (NBC).  Its relatable conflicts and throwback characters are similar to classic sitcoms including “Cheers,” “Three’s Company,” and “Seinfeld.”  To date, there has been an overwhelmingly positive response to “Adults Only,” with its preview trailer receiving a 96% funny rating (out of 100%) on the comedy website www.funnyordie.com .

“Adults Only” was written, directed and produced by Jason M. Burns, chief creative officer of PRC.  Ronnie Marmo assisted by directing episodes seven and eight.  Burns, a Massachusetts native, does not travel by air and convinced each cast member to fly to Massachusetts for the week of filming – effectively bringing Hollywood to New England.  Burns, who has been called the Woody Allen of web-based television by PopMatters.com, is best known for his comic book writing for Ape Entertainment’s (San Diego) licensed properties including Shrek, Megamind, Kung Fu Panda, and Richie Rich.  He also wrote graphic novels for Archaia Studios (Los Angeles) for Fraggle Rock, and IDW Publishing (San Diego) for Jericho (CBS) Season 3 (co-authored with the television series’ original creators) for which he was named to The New York Times Best Sellers list in 2011.  Burns served as editor-in-chief for DreamWorks Animation’s (Los Angeles) comic book titles, working directly with the licensing department.  He was named Best Indie Writer of 2008 by the Project Fanboy Awards, an annual awards program celebrating writers and artists in the comic book industry, as voted on by the fans.  He has written and created a number of successful creator-owned comic book series as well, including Curse of the Were-Woman, A Dummy’s Guide To Danger, and The Expendable One, which is currently being developed into a major motion picture by Intrepid Pictures (Los Angeles).

THE RISING DEAD

Rachel Rising excerpt to appear in THE WALKING DEAD #95

THE WALKING DEAD #95, in stores on March 28, will have a five-page preview of Terry Moore's horror comic Rachel Rising, published by Moore's own Abstract Studio. The trade paperback collecting the first six issues of the ongoing series by the Strangers in Paradise creator, Rachel Rising: The Shadow of Death, will be in comic book stores the same day.

Rachel Rising tells the story of a young woman who cannot die. She wakes up at the foot of her own shallow grave, looking at her own freshly-murdered corpse. The events of her last night are hazy, and Rachel must piece together the events that led to her death — so that she can take revenge on the right person. Comic Book Resources described Rachel Rising as being "chock full of decadent mystery, unspeakable horror, strong characters, and beautiful black and white artwork, and it’s on its way to becoming the best of Terry Moore’s already impressive work."

THE WALKING DEAD creator Robert Kirkman decided to include the preview in the latest issue of the Image Comics bestseller to support Moore's work.

"Terry is a personal hero of mine dating back to my self-publishing days," he writes in his introduction to the preview. "I've always been a fan of his work and an admirer of everything he's been able to accomplish independently."

THE WALKING DEAD #95 by Robert Kirkman, Charlie Adlard, and Cliff Rathburn continues the series' "A Larger World" storyline. Rachel Rising: The Shadow of Death (ISBN 978-1-89259-751-9) is a 120-page black-and-white trade paperback.

ABOUT IMAGE COMICS
Image Comics is a comic book and graphic novel publisher founded in 1992 by a collective of best-selling artists. Image has since gone on to become one of the largest comics publishers in the United States. Image currently has five partners: Robert Kirkman, Erik Larsen, Todd McFarlane, Marc Silvestri and Jim Valentino. It consists of five major houses: Todd McFarlane Productions, Top Cow Productions, Shadowline, Skybound and Image Central. Image publishes comics and graphic novels in nearly every genre, sub-genre, and style imaginable. It offers science fiction, romance, horror, crime fiction, historical fiction, humor and more by the finest artists and writers working in the medium today. For more information, visit www.imagecomics.com.

ABOUT ROBERT KIRKMAN
Robert Kirkman's success and passionate advocacy for creator-owned comics led him to become the first person invited to become a partner at Image Comics since the company's inception twenty years ago. He's the creator/writer of the Eisner Award-winning The Walking Dead, long-running Invincible, kid-friendly Super Dinosaur, The Astounding Wolfman, and new title Thief of Thieves, among many others. Kirkman has earned the respect of the comic, writing and television communities and topped the New York Times bestseller list for graphic novels in 2011, taking four of the top spots.  He's the creator/executive producer and writer of the hit television show, AMC's The Walking Dead, the highest-rated basic cable drama of all time in the U.S, also an international success in 120 countries and 250 million households.  www.Skybound.com is your destination for all news and merchandise for Robert Kirkman, The Walking Dead and all Skybound titles.

THIEF OF THIEVES DOES IT AGAIN

Second issue of new Robert Kirkman series sells out

THIEF OF THIEVES #2, published by Image Comics and on comic book store shelves today, Wednesday, March 14, has sold out at the distributor level. A second printing (DEC118235) will be in stores on April 11, the same day as THIEF OF THIEVES #3.

On March 14, the second printing of THIEF OF THIEVES #1 will also be in comic book stores. Robert Kirkman's newest comic book series, co-written by Nick Spencer and drawn by Shawn Martinbrough, is about a master thief who leaves behind his life in the high-stakes world of crime to try to return to being a family man.

THIEF OF THIEVES is a full-color monthly comic published by Image Comics' Skybound imprint, available in comic book stores and on multiple digital platforms.

ABOUT IMAGE COMICS
Image Comics is a comic book and graphic novel publisher founded in 1992 by a collective of best-selling artists. Image has since gone on to become one of the largest comics publishers in the United States. Image currently has five partners: Robert Kirkman, Erik Larsen, Todd McFarlane, Marc Silvestri and Jim Valentino. It consists of five major houses: Todd McFarlane Productions, Top Cow Productions, Shadowline, Skybound and Image Central. Image publishes comics and graphic novels in nearly every genre, sub-genre, and style imaginable. It offers science fiction, romance, horror, crime fiction, historical fiction, humor and more by the finest artists and writers working in the medium today. For more information, visit www.imagecomics.com.

ABOUT ROBERT KIRKMAN
Robert Kirkman's success and passionate advocacy for creator-owned comics led him to become the first person invited to become a partner at Image Comics since the company's inception twenty years ago. He's the creator/writer of the Eisner Award-winning The Walking Dead, long-running Invincible, kid-friendly Super Dinosaur, The Astounding Wolfman, and new title Thief of Thieves, among many others. Kirkman has earned the respect of the comic, writing and television communities and topped the New York Times bestseller list for graphic novels in 2011, taking four of the top spots.  He's the creator/executive producer and writer of the hit television show, AMC's The Walking Dead, the highest-rated basic cable drama of all time in the U.S, also an international success in 120 countries and 250 million households.  www.Skybound.com is your destination for all news and merchandise for Robert Kirkman, The Walking Dead and all Skybound titles.

TWENTIETH CENTURY FOX HOME ENTERTAINMENT AND
TAUBMAN SHOPPING CENTERS ANNOUNCE UNIQUE
YEAR LONG PARTNERSHIP

 

Malls Will Introduce First-Ever Fox Movie Mall Virtual Storefront Allowing
Consumers the Ability to Purchase Movies in an
Instant Using Their Smart Phones

 

Breakthrough Consumer Experience Kicks Off Across the Country March 16
With Home Entertainment Lounges & Easter Set Tie-ins Timed to the Home
Entertainment Launch Of ALVIN AND THE CHIPMUNKS: CHIPWRECKED.

 

Los Angeles, CA, March 14, 2012 – Twentieth Century Fox Home Entertainment has partnered with Taubman Centers to create a groundbreaking new shopping experience for consumers with the installation of Fox Movie Mall virtual storefronts. With the introduction of the Fox Movie Mall app available at the iTunes Store and Android Market, shoppers at the mall can simply Stop, Scan and Shop, providing convenience and accessibility like never before. An industry first innovation, consumers can pick one of the film titles from a wallscape, scan a QR code and instantly be taken online to make their purchase and have it shipped right to their door. Those that download and launch the Fox Movie Mall app can save up to 50 percent on their purchases and have access to the RIO coloring app, additional games, trailers, movie and TV clips and more.

 

The year-long exclusive partnership will also include home entertainment lounges in central locations with state-of-the-art HDTVs showcasing footage from the upcoming ALVIN AND THE CHIPMUNKS: CHIPWRECKED Blu-ray™ along with many other family-friendly films courtesy of Twentieth Century Fox Home Entertainment. Additionally, ALVIN AND THE CHIPMUNKS: CHIPWRECKED will be fully integrated into the Easter Bunny Set at participating mall locations.

 

“The Fox Movie Mall virtual storefronts are a truly unique experience for mall visitors,” said Mary Daily, President & CMO WW Marketing for Twentieth Century Fox Home Entertainment. “We are constantly looking for new opportunities to reach consumers and this technological advancement has allowed us to further engage with them by offering a convenient and fast way to get the movies they love.”

 

“As the finest collection of retail real estate in America, we are always looking for partnerships with premium brands that enhance the shopping experience for our customers,” says Glenda Cole, Vice President, Sponsorship & Center Marketing for Taubman. “We welcome the addition of Fox’s multifaceted programming that entertains and rewards our shoppers and gives them a new, convenient way to shop for home entertainment products.”

 

Participating Taubman shopping centers include Beverly Center, Los Angeles, CA; Cherry Creek Shopping Center, Denver, Colo; Dolphin Mall, Miami, Fla; Fairlane Town Center, Dearborn, Mich.; Fair Oaks Mall, Fairfax, Va.; Great Lakes Crossing Outlets, Auburn Hills, Mich.; International Plaza and Bay Street, Tampa, Fla.; MacArthur Center, Norfolk, Va.; The Mall at Green Hills, Nashville, Tenn.; The Mall at Short Hills, Short Hills, N.J.; The Mall at Wellington Green, Wellington, Fla.; Northlake Mall, Charlotte, N.C.; Stamford Town Center, Stamford, Conn.; Sunvalley Shopping Center, Concord, Calif.; Twelve Oaks Mall, Novi, Mich.; Westfarms Mall, Farmington, Conn.; The Shops at Willow Bend, Plano, Texas and Woodfield Mall, Schaumburg, Ill.

 

A media day will be held on March 14th at the Dolphin Mall in Miami, Florida in celebration of the partnership and the home entertainment release of ALVIN AND THE CHIPMUNKS: CHIPWRECKED, featuring an exclusive look at the special features available on the Blu-ray, Alvin costumed characters, Fox Movie Mall app demonstrations, games and more.

 

Taubman Centers

Taubman Centers is a real estate investment trust engaged in the development, leasing and management of regional and super regional shopping centers. Taubman's 26 U.S. owned, leased and/or managed properties, the most productive in the publicly held U.S. regional mall industry, serve major markets from coast to coast. Taubman Centers is headquartered in Bloomfield Hills, Michigan, and its Taubman Asia subsidiary is headquartered in Hong Kong. For more information about Taubman, visit www.taubman.com.

 

Twentieth Century Fox Home Entertainment

Twentieth Century Fox Home Entertainment, LLC (TCFHE) is a recognized global industry leader and a subsidiary of Twentieth Century Fox Film Corporation, a News Corporation company. Representing 75 years of innovative and award-winning filmmaking from Twentieth Century Fox, TCFHE is the worldwide marketing, sales and distribution company for all Fox film and television programming, acquisitions and original productions on DVD, Blu-ray Disc, Digital Copy, Video On Demand and Digital Download. The company also releases all products globally for MGM Home Entertainment. Each year TCFHE introduces hundreds of new and newly enhanced products, which it services to retail outlets from mass merchants and warehouse clubs to specialty stores and e-commerce throughout the world.

BIOWARE AND DARK HORSE ANNOUNCE MASS EFFECT 3 ­­IN-GAME ITEMS ON PC AND XBOX 360 FOR FANS WHO PURCHASE MASS EFFECT ART BOOK   

March 14, MILWAUKIE, OR—BioWare, a label of Electronic Arts, Inc., and Dark Horse Comics revealed today that fans who purchase the digital version of The Art of the Mass Effect Universe through Digital.DarkHorse.com will receive a limited code to unlock a Reinforcement Pack containing in-game items to be used on PC or the Xbox 360 video game and entertainment system in the co-op campaign in 2012’s most anticipated game, Mass Effect 3. Showcasing the unique and iconic art featured in the Mass Effect series, The Art of the Mass Effect Universe was released in print and digitally on February 8. Additionally, Mass Effect fans who purchase the digital version of the four-issue comic miniseries Mass Effect: Invasion at the Dark Horse Digital store will also receive a limited code to unlock a Reinforcement Pack.*

Fans who gain access to the Reinforcement Packs will receive in-game items that can be used in the four-player cooperative multiplayer campaign in Mass Effect 3 on PC or Xbox 360. These packs will include powerful character boosters and the devastatingly lethal Collector Assault Rifle. With deadly efficiency, this special weapon uses the same principles as a human assault rifle, but its organic components set it apart. To learn more about how to obtain and redeem the special item code, visit DarkHorse.com. 

Recently named by over 100 outlets around the world as one of the most anticipated games of 2012, including the fan-voted Most Anticipated Game of 2012 award at the Spike TV VGAs, Mass Effect 3 thrusts players into an all-out war to save the galaxy from an ancient alien race known as the Reapers. Players will assume the role of Commander Shepard, a war-torn veteran who’s willing to do whatever it takes to eliminate this nearly unstoppable foe. With a team of elite, battle-hardened soldiers at their side, each player decides how they will take Earth back, from the weapons and abilities they utilize to the relationships they forge or break.

Mass Effect 3 was released on the Xbox 360 video game and entertainment system, PlayStation 3 computer entertainment system, and PC in North America on March 6, 2012, and in Europe on March 9, 2012. For more information on Mass Effect 3, please visit MassEffect.com, follow the game on Twitter at twitter.com/masseffect, or “like” the game on Facebook at facebook.com/masseffect.

*Code expires March 31, 2013. Additional restrictions and conditions apply. See MassEffect.com for details.

  

Pocket God Comics Issue No. 14 Haunts the App Store with “Para-Abnormal Activity”
SAN FRANCISCO - March 14, 2012 – Ape Entertainment and Bolt Creative announced today that Pocket God Comics issue No. 14 is now available on the App Store for iPhone, iPad and iPod touch. In “Para-Abnormal Activity,” the last issue before a new story arc begins, the two-tribes crash into a mysterious island while trying to get home from their previous adventure.
Straight from the spooky aisles of ghostliness and with the girls unable to regenerate, this may not be the best time to hang out on a haunted island. Yep... ghosts, a mystery, and a dubious murder make this an ooky-spooky, extra-kooky issue of Pocket God.
Based on Pocket God, one of the best-selling iPhone apps of all-time, the full-color digital comic book series is one of the most successful digital comics to-date. The comics are available on the App Store via iVerse Media, a digital distribution partner of Ape Entertainment.
And remember, the Pocket God Comics App is updated frequently with all kinds of free extras including The Pygmy Peril newsletter, an exclusive re-mastered version of the first Pocket God animated short, free Little Green Men comic short stories, and more cool stuff!

Pricing and Availability:

The Pocket God Comics App is available for $.99 USD from the App Store on iPad, iPhone and iPod touch or at www.itunes.com/appstore.

For more information, please visit http://www.ApeComics.com or www.boltcreative.com.

About Bolt Creative

Bolt Creative is a San Francisco-based developer creating original iPhone applications and games, including 2009’s blockbuster iPhone game Pocket God. Bolt Creative’s goal is to create games that are not only fun to play, but fun to develop and make them laugh. For more information please visit www.boltcreative.com.

About Ape Entertainment

Founded in 2003, Ape Entertainment is the brainchild of lifelong comic book devotees David Hedgecock, and Brent E. Erwin.  Ape Entertainment is the comic book home to innovative new titles as LITTLE GREEN MEN, SCOUTS, and HEROIC.  Ape is also the North American publisher for licensed properties SHREK, THE PENGUINS OF MADAGASCAR, KUNG FU PANDA, RICHIE RICH, CASPER, STRAWBERRY SHORTCAKE, and CUT THE ROPE.

Visit Ape Entertainment online at http://www.ApeComics.com.

About iVerse Media, LLC

iVerse Media(http://www.iversemedia.com)is a digital content distributor focused on the world of comics and popular culture. Founded in 2008, the company was one of the first to launch digital comics on Apple’s iOS platform. As of Oct 2011 over 5 Million products in the iOS App Store have been downloaded that are powered by iVerse, making the “iVerse Engine” one of the most popular and widely used platforms for reading digital comics in the world. The company is principally located in Waco, TX. For more information on iVerse Media, please visit: http://comicspl.us

THE SPIRIT OF CULTURAL RESISTANCE LIVES ON

OCRAC to host “Better Days Ahead: A Cultural Tribute To the Memory of Troy Davis and Martina Correia,” March 23^rd

On Friday, March 23rd, 8PM, at the Wicker Park Arts Center (2215 W North Ave), the Occupy Chicago Rebel Arts Collective will host a night of art, music and culture remembering the life and struggles of Troy Davis and Martina Correia.

The evening will highlight the spoken word artists FM Supreme, a 2x consecutive champion of Chicago's citywide High School poetry slam festival, Louder Than A Bomb and Rota. Speakers will include Amnesty International (with a video feature), Marlene Martin (Campaign to End the Death Penalty) and Ken Andrews  (Occupy 4 Prisoners).

Six months ago, the state of Georgia executed Davis for murder of a police officer--despite virtually no evidence and a worldwide campaign to save his life. Months later, his sister Martina Correia, a tireless advocate on his behalf, succumbed to cancer.

Both Troy and Martina were dedicated fighters against the death penalty and the racism of the criminal injustice system. As we move into Chicago Spring and a revival of activism for social and economic justice, OCRAC wishes to pay tribute to them. This event--featuring music, poetry, performance and art--will celebrate their lives, and the continuing struggle against racism and repression in Chicago, Georgia, the United States and around the world.

Included will be local painters and artists involved anti-racist movements in Chicago, as well as local rock, hip-hop and blues, poets and performance artists. Come join what is guaranteed to be an inspiring night. Though Troy and Martina are no longer with us, the culture of resistance they were a part of lives and thrives!

For more information on this event, feel free to contact the Occupy Chicago Rebel Arts Collective at artsoccupychi@gmail.com, or get in touch with press contact Alex Billet.

CARTOON NETWORK’S
ADVENTURE TIME #2
FROM BOOM! STUDIOS SELLS OUT
BEFORE SALE DATE!
GOES TO SECOND PRINT!

March 14, 2012 - Los Angeles, CA - KaBOOM!, BOOM! Studios’ all-ages imprint, is proud to announce that days before the first issue even goes on-sale, ADVENTURE TIME #2 has completely sold out of its first printing, sending best pals Jake and Finn into a second print! This comes after the initial comic book based on Cartoon Network’s hit animated series, ADVENTURE TIME #1, went to a historic third print and garnered great critical acclaim!

Fans should keep in mind, while Diamond Comic Distributors is completely sold out, first printings of ADVENTURE TIME #2 may still be found at a direct market retailer near you when the issue goes on-sale March 14th. Not sure where to find your nearest comic retailer? Use www.comicshoplocator.com to find one!

Diamond Comic Distributors has the second printing of ADVENTURE TIME #2, featuring an all-new cover drawn by Chris Houghton, available for retailers to order immediately.

ADVENTURE TIME #2 is the second installment of the exciting new ongoing ADVENTURE TIME series written by Ryan North (DINOSAUR COMICS) with cover art and interiors drawn by Shelli Paroline and Braden Lamb (THE MUPPET SHOW, ICE AGE: ICED IN) with back-up stories by Lucy Knisley (FRENCH MILK, STOP PAYING ATTENTION) and Zac Gorman (MAGICAL GAME TIME). Featuring alternate covers by Jen Bennett, Emily Carroll, and Becky Dreistadt and Frank Gibson.

Based on Pendleton Ward’s animated series, this second issue of the ongoing Adventure Time comic book series features Finn, Jake and all of their friends in all-new adventures through the magical Land of Ooo. The boys have embarked on another crazy-cool adventure, and this one will be their longest, most exciting yet! The adventure is just beginning, so don't miss out on this exploding phenomenon!

ADVENTURE TIME #2 sells for $3.99 with a Diamond code of JAN128240.

About BOOM! Studios
Founded by Ross Richie, 2009 and 2010′s “Best Publisher” BOOM! Studios generates a constellation of bestselling Eisner and Harvey Award-winning comic books and graphic novels with the industry’s top talent, including Mark Waid’s IRREDEEMABLE, new HELLRAISER comics written by Clive Barker, PLANET OF THE APES, 28 DAYS LATER, and Philip K. Dick’s DO ANDROIDS DREAM OF ELECTRIC SHEEP?. BOOM!’s all ages imprint KABOOM! publishes Charles Schulz’ PEANUTS, Roger Langridge’s SNARKED, and Scholastic’s WORDGIRL. BOOM!’s lit comix-focused imprint, BOOM! Town, recently won the Eisner Award for its first book, Shannon Wheeler’s I THOUGHT YOU WOULD BE FUNNIER.

About Cartoon Network Enterprises Cartoon Network Enterprises (CNE) is responsible for building consumer products and merchandising programs for a wide range of brands by securing and supporting long-term licensing partnerships across all categories. As the global branding and merchandising arm of Cartoon Network and Adult Swim, the division manages the consumer product programs for the networks’ award-winning original programming, brands and characters including Ben 10, Generator Rex, Chowder, The Marvelous Misadventures of Flapjack, Adventure Time, Adult Swim and more. CNE also serves as the exclusive global licensing agent for the full portfolio of brands from Spin Master Ltd., as well as Nelvana Enterprises and Spin Master for the award-winning Bakugan brand and the PGA of America for the youth marketplace. Cartoon Network (CartoonNetwork.com), currently seen in more than 99 million U.S. homes and 166 countries around the world, is Turner Broadcasting System, Inc.’s ad-supported cable service now available in HD offering the best in original, acquired and classic entertainment for youth and families. Nightly from 9 p.m. to 6 a.m. (ET, PT), Cartoon Network shares its channel space with Adult Swim, a late-night destination showcasing original and acquired animated and live-action series for young adults 18-34. Turner Broadcasting System, Inc., a Time Warner company, creates and programs branded news, entertainment, animation and young adult media environments on television and other platforms for consumers around the world.

VIZ MEDIA ANNOUNCES ACTIVITIES AND CONVENTION EXCLUSIVES FOR WONDERCON 2012

VIZ Media Treats Attendees To Special “Test Drives” Of New WEEKLY SHONEN JUMP ALPHA Digital Manga Magazine

San Francisco, CA, March 13, 2012 – VIZ Media, LLC (VIZ Media), the largest distributor and licensor of anime and manga in North America, returns to WonderCon 2012 as the show comes to Anaheim, CA, March 16^th-18^th at the Anaheim Convention Center. WonderCon is one of the country's best comics and pop culture conventions. VIZ Media will be located in Booth 206. Complete details on WonderCon are available at: www.comic-con.org/wc.

Throughout the convention, VIZ Media will treat WonderCon attendees to special “test drives” of the company’s new WEEKLY SHONEN JUMP ALPHA digital manga magazine. Drop by the VIZ Media booth, sample the new digital content, and complete a special survey to be entered to win a new Apple iPad 2! The winner will be notified following the show.

Each new digital edition of WEEKLY SHONEN JUMP ALPHA treats manga fans in North America to the latest chapters of some of the world’s most popular manga series only two weeks after they debut in Japan’s massively popular WEEKLY SHONEN JUMP magazine. Featured series include BAKUMAN｡, BLEACH, NARUTO, NURA: RISE OF THE YOKAI CLAN, ONE PIECE, and TORIKO. WEEKLY SHONEN JUMP ALPHA is available through an annual membership that provides 52 weeks of access to 48 weekly issues for just $25.99; members also receive an annual collector’s yearbook, collectable YU-GI-OH! game cards four times a year, and access to exclusive content. As a show special, attendees that become new members will receive a special bonus premium (while supplies last).

Celebrate all things SHONEN JUMP at a special SHONEN JUMP Fan Meet-Up on Friday March 16^th from 2:30pm - 3:30pm in Room 208 and learn about the benefits of being a WEEKLY SHONEN JUMP ALPHA member! Grill the WEEKLY SJ ALPHA editors in a live Q&A session! Win prizes at the trivia contest and join in the live fan art jam! Meet editor Urian Brown, the lead hype-man of #TEAMJUMP, specializing in video games, anime, and assorted fun wacky antics. Also meet Misaki Kido, female leader of #TEAMJUMP, and challenge her manga knowledge or ask for advice about your own manga!

Finally, sit in with WEEKLY SHONEN JUMP ALPHA editor Urian Brown as he joins NAMCO BANDAI Games to celebrate NARUTO SHIPPUDEN: Ultimate Ninja Storm Generations in a special panel discussion on Sunday March, 18^th from 4:00pm-5:00pm in Room 207. With over 10 million units of the popular game, based on the smash hit anime/manga series, sold worldwide, all fans of NARUTO are encouraged to attend this celebration of the series. In addition to being treated to an appearance by Production Head Director Hiroshi Matsuyama of CyberConnect 2, fans can enjoy a panel covering the exciting world of NARUTO video games, with a guest host, Urian Brown, master of all things video game-related at WEEKLY SJ ALPHA. Don't miss all of the action happening live on-stage with this exciting and breakthrough game franchise.

For more information on WEEKLY SJ ALPHA and exclusive subscriber offers, please visit SJAlpha.com or VIZManga.com. 

About VIZ Media, LLC

Headquartered in San Francisco, CA, VIZ Media, LLC (VIZ Media), is one of the most comprehensive and innovative companies in the field of manga (graphic novel) publishing, animation and entertainment licensing of Japanese content. Owned by three of Japan’s largest creators and licensors of manga and animation, Shueisha Inc., Shogakukan Inc., and Shogakukan-Shueisha Productions, Co., Ltd., VIZ Media is a leader in the publishing and distribution of Japanese manga for English speaking audiences in North America, the United Kingdom, Ireland, and South Africa and is a global ex-Asia licensor of Japanese manga and animation. The company offers an integrated product line including the popular monthly manga anthology SHONEN JUMP magazine, graphic novels, and DVDs, and develops, markets, licenses, and distributes animated entertainment for audiences and consumers of all ages. Contact VIZ Media at 295 Bay Street, San Francisco, CA 94133; Phone (415) 546-7073; Fax (415) 546-7086; and website at www.VIZ.com.

SUPERMAN VS. THE ELITE
WORLD PREMIERE
THIS FRIDAY AT WONDERCON

Superman vs. The Elite, the next entry in the popular, ongoing series
of DC Universe Animated Original Movies, will receive its World
Premiere as WonderCon’s featured evening event for Friday, March 16 in
Anaheim.

Produced by Warner Premiere, DC Entertainment, Warner Bros. Animation
and Warner Home Video, the all-new, PG-13 rated film will screen at
6:30 p.m. in the Anaheim Convention Center Ballroom. The screening
will be followed by a panel discussion amongst filmmakers and voice
cast members. Award-winning comics writer Joe Kelly and versatile
voice actor Robin Atkin Downes (Justice League: Doom) are among the
confirmed panelists for Friday. Additional panelists will be announced
as they are confirmed.

Kelly has adapted the story from his original 2001 DC Comics release,
“What’s So Funny About Truth, Justice and the American Way?” into the
taut, thrilling screenplay for Superman vs. The Elite. The
single-issue comic, Action Comics #775, was lauded by Wizard Magazine
as the “Greatest Superman Story of All Time,” and ranked the epic tale
at No. 21 on its list of the “Top 100 Comics of the last 30 years.”

In Superman vs. The Elite, Superman's effectiveness as a super hero
comes into question when a new group of super powerful crusaders,
known as "The Elite," appear on the scene. As super heroes, the Elite
know no bounds, and are more than willing to kill, even on a massive
scale, to stop villainy -- putting them on a collision course with the
ever-ethical, yet preferably non-lethal Man of Steel.

George Newbern (Father of the Bride) reprises his Justice League
animated television role as Superman, and primetime television star
Pauley Perrette (NCIS) provides the voice of Lois Lane. Downes steps
in as Manchester Black, leader of The Elite. David Kaufman (Justice
League: Doom) also reprises his Justice League TV series role as Jimmy
Olsen.

The film is directed by Michael Chang (Batman: Brave and the Bold).
Bruce Timm (Batman: Year One) is executive producer, and Alan Burnett
(Green Lantern: Emerald Knights) is producer.

In addition to the screening and panel, Warner Home Video and DC
Entertainment will co-present an autograph signing session with
Superman vs. The Elite panelists on Saturday, March 17 from
11:00am-Noon in the DC Booth at WonderCon.

IDW Releases WonderCon 2012 Details

Announcements, signings, exclusives, and excitement abound!

March 13, 2012
San Diego, CA – IDW is thrilled to announce its jam-packed schedule of events and exclusives for WonderCon 2012, taking place March 16-18, 2012 in Anaheim, CA.  IDW will be located in booth #301. Follow the thunderous echo of triumphant high fives.

This year’s show promises treasures of epic proportions to be unleashed on convention-goers.  Among other delights, IDW is pleased to offer -exclusive editions of two of our most popular Artist’s Editions.  We’ll be offering an exclusive variant of the wildly popular Wally Wood’s EC Stories Artist’s Edition and a very special edition of John Romita’s Amazing Spider-Man Artist’s Edition signed by Romita and Stan Lee and including a sketch by the legendary Romita himself!

In addition to exclusive merchandise, we’ll also have some top-flight talent on hand to ensure and commemorate what is sure to be total convention domination.  Joe Hill will be appearing at our booth and in his very own spotlight panel. Steeped in mystery as thick as his beard, it stands to reason Joe might have some exciting announcements to make.* If one best-seller wasn’t enough to pack the house, we’re also welcoming Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles co-creator Kevin Eastman, who will be providing pizza to anyone with a convention badge*, and 30 Days of Night and Frankenstein, Alive, Alive! creator Steve Niles, who will be taking blood from convention goers, we’re hoping for the Red Cross and not just for fun.

IDW will also be hosting a few panels during the show including IDW Presents: The IDW Panel! with Chief Creative Officer Chris Ryall and a murderer’s row of creators and Spotlight on Artist’s Editions with Special Projects Editor and Lord of Giant Books Scott Dunbier! Any convention goers in search of reality-quaking announcements should consider attendance at these panels mandatory.

Please see the schedules below for detailed signing and panel information as well as a list of the amazing exclusive merchandise that will be flying out of our booth.

*Unsubstantiated claims, rumors, hearsay.



CHECK OUT THESE CONVENTION EXCLUSIVES:
Wally Wood’s EC Stories Artist’s Edition: Exclusive Hardcover Variant- $150.00
John Romita’s Amazing Spider-Man: Exclusive Hardcover– Signed by Romita & Stan Lee, with a sketch by Romita! - $250.00
Smoke & Mirrors #1 Convention Variant Cover- $5.00
Locke & Key: Guide to Known Keys Convention Variant Cover- $5.00
Locke & Key Vol. 4: Keys to the Kingdom HC Convention Variant Cover  - $25.00
Road Rage #1 Convention Variant Cover- $5.00
We’ll also have some previous convention-edition material available!
The Art of Joe Jusko:Signed and numbered edition - $50.00
Locke & Key:Assorted brass-plated pewter keys - $25.00 or 5 for $100.00

Parker: The Martini Edition Variant Edition- $75.00
Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles Ultimate Edition Vol. 1 Variant Edition- $50.00
Monstrous Collection of Steve Niles and Bernie Wrightson Variant Edition- $50.00

Friday March 16th
2:00 – 3:00  TRANSFORMERS – Livio Ramondelli, John Barber, Flint Dille, Chris
                        Metzen
3:00 – 4:00 Smoke & Mirrors – Jon Armstrong, Mike Costa, Ryan Browne
                      (Check out the Wonder Con Exclusive Comic!)
4:30 – 5:30 Locke & Key, The Cape, Road Rage –Joe Hill, Jason Ciaramella,
                     Chris Ryall
(Check out the Wonder Con Exclusive Comics: Road Rage #1 & Locke & Key: The Guide to Known Keys!)
6:00 – 7:00 30 Days of Night – Steve Niles
                      (Check out the Exclusive Steve Niles & Bernie Wrightson Hardcover!)

Saturday March 17th
10:00 – 11:00 Smoke & Mirrors – Jon Armstrong, Mike Costa, Ryan Browne
                      (Check out the Wonder Con Exclusive Comic!)
11:00 – 12:00 Done to Death – Andrew Foley
12:00 – 3:00 Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles – Kevin Eastman
3:00 – 4:00 Locke & Key, The Cape, Road Rage –Joe Hill, Jason Ciaramella,
                     Chris Ryall
(Check out the Wonder Con Exclusive Comics: Road Rage #1 & Locke & Key: The Guide to Known Keys!)
4:00 – 5:00 True Blood – Michael McMillian
5:00 – 6:00 Womanthology Launch Party - Featuring Renae DeLiz, Mariah Huehner & over a dozen other creators!
6:00 – 7:00 Star Trek, Angel – Scott Tipton

Sunday March 18th
12:00 – 1:00 Baja – Ben Wagner
1:00 – 2:00 Locke & Key – Joe Hill
                     (Focus on Locke & Key Card Game from Cryptozoic!)
2:00 – 3:00 Smoke & Mirrors – Jon Armstrong, Mike Costa, Ryan Browne
                      (Check out the Wonder Con Exclusive Comic!)

Don’t get chumpatized!  Check out these IDW Panels!

Friday, March 16
12:30–1:30 IDW Presents: THE IDW Panel! 
Join Chief Creative Officer Chris Ryall, Senior EditorScott Dunbier and Sergeant of Marketing Dirk Wood, as they give out prizes, make announcements and evade questions! Featuring a host of special guests including Scott Tipton, Ben McCool and more! All this, plus the Smoke & Mirrors boys,  Mike Costa and Jon Armstrong, perform live magic! Yes, you read that right!  Room 203

4:30-5:30Spotlight on Renae De Liz—Meet one of the rising stars of the industry! Acclaimed artist and WonderCon special guest Renae De Liz(The Last Unicorn) was building a rabid following even before she masterminded the Kickstarter runaway smash success project Womanthology! Room 203

7:00-8:00 IDW: Spotlight on Artist's Editions                               
Join IDW Senior Editor Scott Dunbier for an in-depth discussion of the publisher's massively successful Artist's Edition line! Launching in 2009 with Dave Stevens' Rocketeer, and continuing last year with Walter Simonson's The Mighty Thor,  and this year with John Romita's Amazing Spider-Man, and a host of others, these brilliant tomes have turned the industry on its ear by having their pages scanned directly from the original art! Come hear exciting announcements about upcoming additions to the line! Room 204

Saturday, March 17
11:00-12:00 Womanthology— Get the story behind the hottest Kickstarter project of the year, a graphic novel produced entirely by the top women in the industry! Over 200 creators combined to create Womanthology,  and all profits go to the charities of GlobalGiving.org! Project mastermind Renae De Lizand a host of surprise creators offer sneak peeks, inside tips on how to break into comics, and more! Room 213

1:00-2:00  Spotlight on Joe Hill                                   
Eisner-Award winning creator of Locke & Key, talks about the final chapters of the series, who will be the next person to wear The Cape, IDW's Road Rage, his next novel (and accompanying comic series), and future projects. His discussion with editor Chris Ryall will be followed by a Q&A and pole-dancing demonstration. Room 213

6:00-7:00Horror in Comics— Whether it in movies, TV shows, books, or comics, everyone loves to be scared. This panel focuses on horror in comics with WonderCon special guests Joe Hill(Locke & Key), Rebekah Isaacs(Angel & Faith), Mike Mignola(Hellboy, B.P.R.D.), Eric Powell(The Goon), and Scott Snyder(American Vampire), as they talk to the not-scary-at-all Mark Waidabout things that go bump in the night in comic books. Room 213

Sunday, March 18
12:30-1:30 Spotlight on Steve Niles—WonderCon special guest Steve Niles(creator, 30 Days of Night), talks about his career, including his new ventures in film (Remains, based on his zombie comic story and appearing on Chiller Network) and what's coming up next for him with fellow writer Joshua Fialkov (I, Vampire). Room 211


Visit IDWPublishing.com to learn more about the company and its top-selling books. IDW can also be found at http://www.facebook.com/#!/idwpublishing and http://tumblr.idwpublishing.com/ and on Twitter at @idwpublishing.

About IDW Publishing
IDW is an award-winning publisher of comic books, graphic novels and trade paperbacks, based in San Diego, California. Renowned for its diverse catalog of licensed and independent titles, IDW publishes some of the most successful and popular titles in the industry, including: Hasbro’s The TRANSFORMERS and G.I. JOE, Paramount’s Star Trek; HBO’s True Blood; the BBC’s DOCTOR WHO; Nickelodeon’s Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles; Toho’s Godzilla; Wizards of the Coasts Magic: The Gathering and Dungeons & Dragons; and the Eisner-Award winning Locke & Key series, created by best-selling author Joe Hill and artist Gabriel Rodriguez. IDW is also home to the Library of American Comics imprint, which publishes classic comic reprints, and Yoe! Books, a partnership with Yoe! Studio.

IDW’s critically- and fan-acclaimed series are continually moving into new mediums. Currently, Jerry Bruckheimer Films and Disney are creating a feature film based on World War Robot, while Michael Bay‘s Platinum Dunes and Sony are bringing Zombies vs. Robots to film.