Comics – The man who created Thanos, Jim Starlin, is returning to Marvel Comics to revisit the character in an original graphic novel. The book, Thanos: The Infinity Revelation sees release in April and will also feature Adam Warlock, Silver Surfer and the Annihilators. No word on whether he plans to parody any Marvel higher-ups (like he infamously once did in a classic Captain Marvel tale)… But oh, how I wish he would. [ICv2]
Film – New footage from The Amazing Spider-Man 2 was released in Times Square on New Year’s Eve. The reason? The majority of the new scenes take place in Times Square during a countdown. (At least that’s what the new trailer would have us believe.) The footage focuses mostly on Electro, but shockingly does nothing to appease my disdain for this unnecessary reboot. [Indie Wire]
Anime – The Japanese government has funded a new “Japan Channel”– reportedly spending close to $15 million to create subbed/dubbed anime, music shows, live-action dramas and travel programs. The new channel will hit Thailand, Indonesia and Cambodia first– eventually making its way to North America, Europe and Africa. It’s an interesting concept, but the channel’s success in North America will entirely depend on how easily (and painlessly) cable and satellite providers incorporate the channel into their existing entertainment offerings. There’s an ever-growing community in the West willing to watch and accept new cultural entertainment, but I won’t be the least bit surprised if the vast majority of these potential TV viewers don’t care about this channel– despite any quality series they might produce. [Comics Alliance]
Collectibles – Cool toymaker Hot Toys now offers Batman’s armoury– and, most importantly– Alfred Pennyworth to stand next (and up) to Gotham’s Dark Knight. [Hot Toys]
Video Games – The makers of Batman: Arkham Origins have talked about a new story DLC for a while… And it looks like something will finally happen this year. A teaser image is out– and it looks pretty damn cool. [Crunchyroll]
Film – Marvel has re-released this cast photo from The Guardians of the Galaxy with a twist: They’ve added an exciting story synopsis too. Check it out! [Twitch]
Awesome – Once again, Sir Ian McKellen and Sir Patrick Stewart show us we never have to fully grow up. [Geeks Are Sexy]
Television – The UK started New Year’s off in style by airing a new episode of Sherlock Series 3. The new eps have already finished overseas (there are only 3), but fans in North America will have to wait until 1.19.14 to (legally) watch the show. To tide these law-abiding viewers over, here’s the cast and crew talking about the new series. Don’t worry, there aren’t any spoilers.
Film – Apparently Dwayne Johnson movies made a crapload of money at the box office last year– totaling $1.3 BILLION in worldwide receipts. With The Rock banking that kind of cash, it’s not hard to fathom why DC just met with the actor to discuss an upcoming project. Of course, the whole thing’s a secret… But that didn’t stop Johnson from tweeting all involved plan to “…create cool bad assery.” Here’s hoping this new project is more Dark Knight– and less Green Lantern or Man of Steel. If any new film remotely resembles those latter two DC disasters, I know several nerds who wouldn’t hesitate to drop the “The People’s Elbow” on Dwayne. [Collider]
Animated Short – Have you ever wondered what a 1980s Star Wars anime might look like? Well, you don’t have to imagine any longer. This video short will put all your sleepless nights behind you. Enjoy!
Editor’s Note: It should be stated that Nick Furi (Yes! That truly is his REAL name!) is very deadline conscious. This column was delivered in Nick’s usual prompt style near the beginning of the Year… But it took us over 10 days to publish it. Kudos to on-time Nick– and apologies as well. This Sunday will feature a SUPER-SIZED Odds & Ends– all new and up to date for your reading & viewing pleasure.