ChAIR Entertainment and Epic Games Launch iOS Blockbuster Infinity Blade III

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September 19, 2013

ChAIR Entertainment, an award-winning Epic Games studio, launched “Infinity Blade III” on the App Store. Powered by Unreal Engine technology, Infinity Blade III delivers an epic conclusion to the blockbuster video game series with a thrilling story of honor, love, betrayal, and redemption.

Powered by Unreal Engine technology, Infinity Blade III is a universal app priced at $6.99 and is compatible with the new iPhone 5S and iPhone 5C, iPhone 5, iPhone 4S, iPhone 4, iPod touch 5, iPad 4, iPad 3, iPad 2, and iPad mini.

KEY FEATURES:

Responsive and Intuitive Touch Controls – Designed from the ground up to be the ultimate touch screen experience, players attack opponents, dodge enemy advances, cast powerful magic, and explore the world – all with a simple swipe of the finger.

Simple Navigation – Easy tap-to-move controls enable players to effortlessly navigate the world while collecting valuable items such as treasure, swords, shields, armor and other magical objects.

Play as SIRIS and ISA – For the first time in franchise history, gamers play as both legendary hero Siris, and the stealthy female warrior-thief, Isa. Each character features three (3) unique combat styles and their own set of over 135 unique weapons and items.

Dynamic Single-Player Campaign – Choose multiple paths to follow, each with unique missions, new enemies to fight, and larger, beautiful 3D environments to explore.

Deep, Rich Story – The epic tale concludes in the most detailed story scenes ever shown on a mobile device, and featuring the voice talents of fan-favorites John Noble and Troy Baker.

New Fighting Styles and Weapon Classes – Six (6) unique fighting styles, each with specialized weapons, moves, combos, and capabilities to be mastered

More Powerful Enemies – Dozens of new enemies and bosses, each featuring unique abilities and exciting attacks, provide greater gameplay variation than ever before.

ClashMob™2.0 – Patent Pending. Players from around the globe team up for unique “massively social,” group-based challenges to defeat new enemies, unlock rare treasures and earn exclusive items. Three (3) new modes include: Trials (single-player daily challenges), ClashMobs (multi-layered co-op events), and Aegis Tournaments (special, longer running competitive qualifying events).

The Dragon – Rumor tells of a massive Dragon scouring the land, leaving destruction and carnage in its wake. Players can hunt down and battle this mighty beast, slaying it to win a rare treasure.

The Hideout – The Hideout serves as the player’s all-new base of operations. Throughout the campaign, players discover and unlock allies who will join their cause: The Merchant brings rare and exotic items for sale at a discount. The Gemcutter allows combining and fusing of gems into new, more powerful gems. The Potionmaster cooks rare, unique potions from ingredients players find in the world. The Blacksmith allows players to upgrade and re-master all weapons and items.

World Map – Players now choose from multiple quests, side missions, and ClashMob engagements with the new in-game World Map interface.

Deep Role-Playing Elements – Players earn and collect hundreds of unique Weapons and Items. Objects can be mastered unlocking valuable XP and Skill Points used to level characters and unlock powerful new Skill Perks. Hundreds of unique Ability Gems can be slotted into items, increasing their abilities. Enhanced gem forging, potion mixing, and weapon re-mastering allows for endless character leveling and customization. Goals – All-new Goals feature takes Achievements to the next level, allowing players to earn valuable Chips that they can spend on keys, treasure maps, prize wheels, and other rare in-game items. Original Score and Customizable Music – Gamers can experience the game’s original orchestral score or choose their own custom soundtrack while playing.

BONUS CONTENT:

Imagine Dragons – Internationally acclaimed rock band Imagine Dragons debut their original, Infinity Blade-inspired song, “Monster,” in-game (also released as a single). Players can also obtain the exclusive “Imagine Dragon” in-game weapon and hear the song playing whenever its in use. Ben Hibon Animated Short – Infinity Blade III kicks off with a dramatic new animated opening sequence, entitled “Infinity Blade: Origins” created by award-winning animation director, Ben Hibon (Harry Potter, Heavenly Sword, Mirror Mirror), and also featuring the voice talent of actor John Noble (The Lord of the Rings, Fringe) as The Worker of Secrets.

“It’s been amazing to see the continued success of Infinity Blade and to have the ability to tell a complex story across different mediums, using a single device we take wherever we go,” said Donald Mustard, co-founder and creative director at ChAIR. “We’re so proud of Infinity Blade III and feel it not only offers a powerful finale to the series, but also gives mobile gaming another giant push forward.”

Fans looking to delve more deeply into the fiction of the Infinity Blade universe can also download “Infinity Blade: Redemption,” the latest digital novella written by #1 New York Times bestselling fantasy author Brandon Sanderson (“The Way of Kings,” “Mistborn,” “The Wheel of Time”). “Infinity Blade: Redemption” is available for $2.99 across all digital booksellers.

Disney Interactive Launches All-New Mobile Game:"Alice in Wonderland: A New Champion"

By

Robbie Bulus

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September 19, 2013

Head Down the Rabbit Hole to Defend Wonderland in “Alice in Wonderland: A New Champion” from Disney Interactive

New Mobile Game Invites Players to Explore the Wonderland Inspired by the 2010 Live-Action Film

Disney Interactive announced today the launch of the free-to-play mobile game “Alice in Wonderland: A New Champion”, a vibrant world inspired by the hit live-action film, on iOS and soon on Android devices. Players experience the unbelievable sights and curious mysteries of Wonderland while they fight to thwart the return of the dreaded Red Queen and her minions.

Players tumble through the rabbit hole into this fantastical land and work with the story characters to help rebuild Wonderland and set things right. Along the way, they will solve riddles, craft tools, and assume the mantle as the White Queen’s Champion in order to help Alice save Wonderland from the scourge of the Red Queen.

Key Features[unordered_list style=”bullet”]

Familiar friends, like Alice, the Mad Hatter, the White Rabbit, and the March Hare.
Visually stunning locations such as the Mad Tea Party, magnificent White Queen’s Castle, cozy Bayard’s Village, and many more.
Crafting tools and resources to help the denizens of Wonderland survive and flourish.
Whimsical riddles and make sense of the twisty illogic that characterize the delightful and intriguing Wonderland.

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“Alice in Wonderland: A New Champion” can be downloaded via the App Store at http://bit.ly/19PGNZy

Angry Birds Star Wars™ II with over 30 playable characters is now Available!

By

Robbie Bulus

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September 18, 2013

Rovio Entertainment Ltd. released Angry Birds Star Wars II today for iOS, Android, and Windows Phone 8 devices worldwide, with the biggest lineup ever of new characters in an Angry Birds game.

Angry Birds Star Wars II is the sequel to the #1 hit blockbuster game with new characters, new levels, new powers, and new ways to play. For the first time ever, players can Join the Pork Side and play as both the birds and the pigs. In addition, Hasbro has introduced TELEPODS which combines physical and digital gameplay by allowing players to teleport physical Angry Birds Star Wars toy characters into the mobile and tablet versions of the game.

“Angry Birds Star Wars II combines the rich worlds of both Angry Birds and Star Wars™ in a unique way featuring fan favorite characters from both the dark and light side of the Force,” said Jami Laes, EVP Games, Rovio Entertainment. “We have taken the gameplay to a whole new level, giving our fans the option to play as both the birds and the pigs. We are also excited to introduce the amazing new TELEPODS from Hasbro. For the first time ever our new characters will not only appear in future game updates, but also on store shelves. We’ve heavily invested in the longevity of the franchise and have great updates already lined up for the coming months.”

Angry Birds Star Wars II follows the story of Star Wars Episodes I-III and introduces Angry Birds versions of iconic characters such as young Anakin, Jango Fett and Darth Maul. In addition to the vast amount of content readily available in the game, new characters and powers can be unlocked by placing one of the collectible TELEPODS physical figures onto the phone or tablet camera and scanning it into the game. Over thirty figures are available at launch on September 19th.

Angry Birds Star Wars II download link: http://download.angrybirdsstarwars2.com

Review: Wizard of Oz in New Hollywood IMAX 3D Theater

By

Joel Covey

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September 18, 2013

Warner Brothers has spent 16 months with over 1000 people to convert this ever popular classic The Wizard of Oz back to big screen, but this time the IMAX screen and in crystal clear 3D. The Wizard of Oz is celebrating its 75th Anniversary and will be beginning a one week engagement at IMAX theaters beginning Friday September 20^th.

Fortunately, I was able to attend a screening at the newly remodeled Chinese Theatre in Hollywood. The historic Grauman’s Chinese Theatre, later named Mann’s Chinese Theatre, opened in 1927 and hosted the world premiere of The Wizard of Oz back in 1939. Nearly 75 years later after the films debut, the theater has undergone a giant transformation into LA’s only IMAX theater now known as TCL Chinese Theater.

Many were worried about this transformation, but TCL has done a fabulous job not altering any of the decorative elements from floor to ceiling movie goers have cherished forever. Instead you will find many improvements with new stadium-style seating allowing for the largest IMAX auditorium in capacity with 932 seats. A new 94 feet wide, 46 feet tall screen has been installed meaning parts of the theater had to be excavated to fit such a large screen also allowing for the stadium seating.

The Wizard of Oz in IMAX 3D will mark the debut of the remodeled theater and will also be shown in over 300 IMAX theaters across the nation. However, it couldn’t be more fitting to seeing such a beloved movie in such a historic theater where it all began.

The Wizard of Oz: IMAX Behind the Frame

As the curtains slowly open revealing the floor to ceiling screen, the sides are masked allowing for the original aspect ratio of 1.37:1 filling the screen. IMAX screens are known to be a tad squarer than traditional theaters, but The Wizard of Oz was created before Cinemascope or wide screen was commonly used. The film is actually a little less wide than IMAX.

You’ll find as soon as the film begins you instantly enter a certain time and place. I felt taken back hearing the first few chords of the overture and seeing the classic sepia toned clouds and titles float across the screen. I knew immediately that I was about to see something special; something I thought I would never get to see. Chills ran down my arms and then I was quickly mesmerized by the clarity of the 3D. Soon the words of “Somewhere Over the Rainbow” are sung causing me to sink into my chair to soak in the moment. This is a moment that audiences felt nearly 75 years ago, in that same theater no less.

I’m sure we all know the story and probably each scene, but seeing The Wizard of Oz with such precision, so large, with amazing sound along with the incredible 3D conversion creates an all knew experience. Quickly I spotted details I had never noticed before and was in awe of the little things. The close-ups, although can be awkward at moments, allowed for the audience to really get to know the actors like never before. When the film transitions to TECHNICOLOR you’ll start to see blemishes and freckles you probably didn’t see previously. What’s truly fantastic about seeing these silly details is you get a chance to live vicariously through the production as if you are there on set at MGM Studios.

Something to remember though is that The Wizard of Oz is a film from the 30’s. Films production values were much different then and now you will really notice these things that were not as noticeable before. Remember going in that the whole movie is basically shot on a soundstage with juvenile backdrops, some cheap materials and not the greatest special effects. However, my buddy and I still cannot figure out how they created the tornado in the distance. Nonetheless, seeing this re-mastered beautiful conversion of the film we all (most) love with lasting memories, it’s good to be forewarned that it’s like watching a stage production. The painted backdrops are clearer than ever causing me to have more moments wanting to yell at the actors not to run into the wall.

Even some of the close-ups of say the Lion can reveal some of the inconsistent make-up and simplicity in some costumes and sets. I even caught a glimpse of the Wicked Witch’s’ trap door opening and a part rising to allow for either the smoke or flames. Comical, yes; charming, absolutely!

This will be a wonderful way to reintroduce yourself to the magic or for families to possibly introduce their children to this must-see film for the first time. I will say that I wouldn’t recommend seeing The Wizard of Oz unless you consider yourself a decent fan of the film. Many will fall in love with the movie all over again, but I can see many finding parts odd or perhaps even childish. Seeing so much detail may have not been originally attended when they first shot the film, but it’s great to get even more out of this film. There are definitely moments that I felt I entered Oz and got that feeling, I’m not in LA anymore.

On October 1, Warner Bros. Home Entertainment will debut a limited and numbered The Wizard of Oz 75th Anniversary Collector’s Edition, a five-disc set including Blu-ray™, Blu-ray 3D™, DVD and UltraViolet™ versions of the film, plus myriad bonus features, new documentaries and collectible items.

Extra Fun Facts:[unordered_list style=”bullet”]

Warner Bros. estimates that some $25 million will have been spent on a massive marketing, advertising and promotion campaign – a cross divisional effort involving Home Entertainment, Consumer Products and Theatrical.

The film was directed by Victor Fleming (who that same year directed Gone With the Wind, which won the Oscar® for Best picture).

There are two surviving Munchkins: Jerry Maren, 93, the middle Lollipop Guild kid who gives DOROTHY™ a lollipop, and Munchkin town lady Ruth Duccini, 95. Margaret Pellegrini, one of the sleepyheads in the nest, recently passed away on August 7 of this year at the age of 89. Originally, there were 124 actors who played the Munchkins.

To make it look as if the WICKED WITCH™’s head is shrinking as she melts, her hat size was increased.

A double was used for Judy Garland in three scenes. Her name is Bobbie Koshay. In the first, at the opening of the movie, Bobbie balances on a fence and then falls into the pig pen. In the second, Bobbie is seen from the back, opening the door to Munchkin Land before DOROTHY™ emerges in Technicolor. And it’s Bobbie again, from the back, when the WINGED MONKEY™’s pick her up from the haunted forest.

All three stand-ins for the TIN MAN™, SCARECROW™, and COWARDLY LION™ are briefly visible in a couple of shots that show the trio climbing the mountain to get to the Witch’s Castle to rescue DOROTHY™. The costumes for the stand-ins (especially that of the COWARDLY LION™) are the giveaway.

In the interest of enhancing Jack Haley’s appearance as “all-tin, all-the-time,” the make-up specialists affixed an extra rivet to his face, just between his eyes – which is much more visible in the enhanced film print.

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Disney Where's My Water? 2 Launches in the App Store!

By

Robbie Bulus

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September 13, 2013

Disney Interactive announced the next exciting adventure with Swampy and the gang in the Where’s My Water? 2. In this free-to-play sequel to the massively popular physics-based puzzler, players will explore challenging new levels across three brand new locations including the Sewer, the Soap Factory, and the Beach.

Featuring over 100 levels and challenges to solve, players will experience the same cut and swipe mechanics pioneered in Where’s My Water? while being able to use power-ups such as Vacuum, Dropper and Absorber to “tri-duck” faster. In Where’s My Water? 2 players are also introduced to “challenge modes” for explosive level replays and quick-timed “Duck Rush” levels.

Key Features:
· Over 100+ levels and challenges with a brand new look in the Gator universe featuring Swampy, Allie, Cranky, and Mystery Duck.
· Introducing ‘Challenge Modes’ to replay the levels in explosive new ways
· Players need to dig as fast as they can to get as many duckies as possible in ‘Duck Rush’ levels
· Players can now earn and purchase hints to solve puzzles and power-ups to help earn ducks
· Complete achievements and earn special themed duckies such as gladiator-duckie, astronaut-duckie, hula-duckie, and many more
· Connect through Facebook to beat friends high scores and gift special items

Since launching in September 2011, Where’s My Water? has been #1 in more than 100 countries, spawned two #1 spinoffs, Where’s My Perry? and Where’s My Mickey?, and has been downloaded more than 250 million times. The game received multiple Game of the Year awards, inspired a successful line of retail merchandise, as well as an animated web series.

You can pick up Where’s My Water? 2 now on the App Store http://di.sn/aK5, Windows Phone Store http://di.sn/jL9 & Windows Store http://di.sn/gJw and the Amazon App Store http://di.sn/aK6 with a launch on Google Play coming soon.

Watch a Disney Animated Classic Like Never Before With an Interactive Theatrical Event!

By

Robbie Bulus

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September 11, 2013

The Walt Disney Studios invites animation fans to experience a classic film like never before with a new interactive theatrical event for the whole family: “Second Screen Live: The Little Mermaid.”

Beginning September 20, this beloved musical adventure returns to select theaters for a special limited engagement, only this time viewers are encouraged to become a part of the story. This unique engagement marks the debut of Disney Second Screen Live, a new second-screen technology that allows audiences to engage with the film, each other and their fellow audience members.

By simply downloading the free “Second Screen Live: The Little Mermaid App” to an Apple iPad or iPad mini and bringing their Mermaid-loaded devices to participating theaters, fans and families can interact with the film, play games, find hidden treasure, sing along, and compete with the audience for the chance to win great prizes!

This brand new, magical theatrical experience starts on September 20 at the following theaters:

· City Center 15: Cinema de Lux; White Plains, NY
· Farmingdale Multiplex Cinemas; Farmingdale, NY
· Arclight Beach Cities; El Segundo, CA
· Arclight Sherman Oaks; Sherman Oaks, CA
· Muvico Thousand Oaks 14; Thousand Oaks, CA
· AMC Empire 25; New York, NY
· AMC Garden State 16; Paramus, NJ
· AMC Burbank 16; Burbank, CA
· AMC Downtown Disney 12; Anaheim, CA
· AMC Bay Street 16; Emeryville, CA
· AMC Town Center 20; Leawood, KS
· Century Huntington Beach and XD; Huntington Beach, CA
· Cinemark West Plano and XD; West Plano, TX
· Carmike Wynnsong 16; Knoxville, TN
· Carmike 15; Columbus, GA

And a special run is taking place at the El Capitan theater in Los Angeles, CA on Sundays & Thursdays from September 15th through October 13th.

For more information about The Little Mermaid: Second Screen Live! theater screenings, locations and ticket purchases, visit http://movies.disney.com/the-little-mermaid/second-screen-live . Tickets are now available for purchase online or at the box office of participating theaters.

To download the FREE “Second Screen Live: The Little Mermaid App,” visit the iTunes Store. (iPad or iPad mini with iOS 5.0 or higher is required.)

Own "Pacific Rim" on Blu-ray Combo Pack, DVD and HD Digital Download 10/15

By

Robbie Bulus

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September 11, 2013

Monsters and robots go head to head when the action-packed spectacle “Pacific Rim” from Warner Bros. Pictures and Legendary Pictures arrives onto Blu-ray 3D Combo Pack, Blu-ray Combo Pack, DVD and Digital HD on October 15 from Warner Bros. Home Entertainment. Directed by Oscar® nominee (Best Writing, Original Screenplay, “Pan’s Labyrinth,” 2006) Guillermo del Toro, “Pacific Rim” follows a team of unlikely fighters who unite for a final attempt to save humanity from terrifying monsters that emerged from the sea.

From Warner Bros. Pictures and Legendary Pictures, “Pacific Rim” is directed by Guillermo del Toro (“Pan’s Labyrinth”) from a screenplay by Travis Beacham and del Toro. The film stars Charlie Hunnam (TV’s “Sons of Anarchy), Idris Elba (“Thor”), Rinko Kikuchi (“Babel”) and Charlie Day (“Horrible Bosses”), along with Rob Kazinsky, Max Martini, Clifton Collins Jr., Burn Gorman and Rob Perlman.

“Pacific Rim” will be available on Blu-ray 3D Combo Pack for $44.95, on Blu-ray Combo Pack for $35.99 and on 2-disc DVD Special Edition for $28.98. The Blu-ray 3D Combo Pack features the theatrical version of the film in 3D hi-definition, hi-definition and standard definition; the Blu-ray Combo Pack features the theatrical version of the film in hi-definition on Blu-ray; and the DVD features the theatrical version in standard definition. The Blu-ray 3D Combo Pack, Blu-ray Combo Pack and the 2-disc DVD Special Edition include UltraViolet* which allows consumers to download and instantly stream the theatrical version of the film to a wide range of devices including computers and compatible tablets, smartphones, game consoles, Internet-connected TVs and Blu-ray players.

“Pacific Rim” Blu-ray 3D Combo Pack and Blu-ray Combo Pack contain the following special features:
· Audio Commentary by Guillermo del Toro
· The Directors Notebook
· Drift Space
· The Digital Artistry of Pacific Rim
· The Shatterdome
· Focus Points
· Deleted Scenes
· Blooper Reel

“Pacific Rim” 2-Disc Standard Definition DVD Special Edition contains the following special features”
· Audio Commentary by Guillermo del Toro
· Drift Space
· The Digital Artistry of Pacific Rim
· The Shatterdome
· Focus Points
· Deleted Scenes
· Blooper Reel

BREAKING BAD: THE COMPLETE SERIES set debuts on Blu-ray 11/26 with never-before-seen documentary!

By

Robbie Bulus

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September 11, 2013

Sony Pictures Home Entertainment cooks up a full batch on Nov. 26 when BREAKING BAD: THE COMPLETE SERIES comes to Blu-ray™ in its entirety. One of the most explosive series ever to air on television, the 16-disc set is this year’s must-have gift for the holiday season, complete with all 62 episodes and more than 55 hours of special features. Starring three-time Emmy® winner Bryan Cranston (Outstanding Lead Actor in a Drama Series) alongside two-time Emmy® winner Aaron Paul (Outstanding Supporting Actor in a Drama Series), the critically acclaimed drama from Sony Pictures Television boasts one of television’s most radical storylines, giving viewers a glimpse into the life of how far a man might go in order to take care of the ones he loves. “Bryan Cranston is still turning in a transformative, unimpeachable performance as Walt, who remains one of the greatest dramatic creations ever to grace our TV screens,” hails USA Today’s Robert Bianco.

Fans who are addicted to the series and itching for another hit can now indulge in more than two-hours of never-before-seen footage in a ground-breaking series documentary exclusively in the box set, which comes packaged in a collectible replica barrel representing part of Walter White’s dark legacy. The all-new documentary chronicles the making of the final season, from filming the first table read to the very last day on set and everything in between, including Bryan Cranston inviting the camera in to his Albuquerque living room for the first reading of the final script with Aaron Paul. The box set also contains all bonus features from previously released seasons (including retail exclusives formerly only available in select stores), a Los Pollos Hermanos apron and a collectible booklet with a letter from Gilligan, as well as a commemorative Breaking Bad challenge coin designed and created by Gilligan exclusively for this set as a token of appreciation to fans for making the Breaking Bad journey.

BREAKING BAD: THE COMPLETE SERIES Barrel Set Special Features Include:
• No Half Measures: Creating the Final Season of Breaking Bad – An all-new, exclusive two hour documentary that chronicles the filming of the final eight episodes.

Additional bonus features include all previously released featurettes and retail exclusives:
• Bad Memories – Bryan Cranston and Aaron Paul talk about the show ending and some of their favorite moments.
• Bryan Cranston: Director – Go on set with Bryan Cranston as he directs the first episode of the season entitled “Blood Money.”
• Scene Envy – The Cast tell us which scene they wish they could have been in.
• Shocking Moments – The stars reveal the moments that shocked them most.
• From Walt to Heisenberg – From high school teacher to deadly meth dealer, watch as Walter White quickly transforms into Heisenberg.
• How Will It End? – At the beginning of the season, the cast was asked to give their thoughts on how they thought the show would end.
• Avenging Agent: Dean Norris as Hank Schrader — A look at the character Hank Schrader and the man who played him, Dean Norris.
• Scene Stealer: Betsy Brandt as Marie Schrader – A look at the character Marie Schrader and the woman who plays her, Betsy Brandt.
• A Criminal Attorney: Bob Odenkirk as Saul Goodman –A look at the character Saul Goodman and the man who played him, Bob Odenkirk.
• Jesse’s Journey: Aaron Paul as Jesse Pinkman – A look at the character Jesse Pinkman and the man who played him, Aaron Paul.
• Skyler Breaks Bad: Anna Gunn on Season Four – Actress Anna Gunn and series creator Vince Gilligan explore Skyler’s character evolution through the fourth season.
• Growing Up in the White House: RJ Mitte on Walter, Jr. – RJ Mitte, Anna Gunn, Bryan Cranston and series creator Vince Gilligan discuss the extraordinary dynamics of the White family, and Walter, Jr.’s unique role.
• The Ultimate Chess Match – Members of the cast and crew discuss Walter White and Gus Fring’s extraordinary and complicated battle of wits and their struggle for Jesse’s allegiance.
• Looking Back: A Season Four Retrospective – Season Four’s most surprising and memorable moments.
• Ted’s Wipeout – In Episode 411, “Crawl Space,” Ted Beneke suffers a head injury while trying to escape from Saul’s goons. In this featurette, Christopher Cousins (Ted) explains how this shocking stunt was accomplished.
• The Truck Attack Storyboard Comparison – A side-by-side comparison of the Los Pollos Hermanos truck attack and the brilliant shot-by-shot storyboards that were created for the episode “Bullet Points.”
• Walt and the Challenger Storyboard Comparison – A side-by-side comparison of the sequence where Walt indulges in some crazy stunt driving in Walt Jr.’s Dodge Challenger and the storyboards that were created.

In addition to releasing the complete set on Blu-ray, SPHE will release BREAKING BAD: THE FINAL SEASON on both Blu-ray and DVD with UltraViolet™ on Nov. 26. The final season includes the series’ final eight episodes and is loaded with special features, including all-new featurettes, cast and crew commentaries, deleted scenes and more. Episodes include: Blood Money, Buried, Confessions, Rabid Dog, To’hajiilee, Ozymandias, Granite State and Felina.

BREAKING BAD: THE FINAL SEASON Blu-ray Includes:
• “Blood Money” Table Read – A rare look at the only final season Breaking Bad table read.

Hub Network Hosts First Annual Halloween Bash & Costume Competition!

By

Robbie Bulus

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September 10, 2013

The Hub Network, a destination for kids and their families, will host the first “Hub Network’s First Annual Halloween Bash,” to be broadcast on Saturday, October 26, 2013 on the cable channel.

The special will be hosted by Kenan Thompson (“Saturday Night Live”), along with Halloween expert Martha Stewart who will lead a panel of celebrity judges, and includes music performances and a nationwide costume competition where 50 semi-finalists from each state will head to Los Angeles to be a part of the two-hour star-studded event.

One lucky winner will win $25,000 and a walk-on role on the Hub Network’s Daytime Emmy® Award-winning series, “R.L. Stine’s The Haunting Hour: The Series.”

The “Hub Network’s First Annual Halloween Bash” costume competition is open to all ages, including individuals or a maximum of five people per group submission.

Participants are encouraged to create eye-popping, hair-raising and spooky costumes within one of the following six categories:[unordered_list style=”bullet”]

Howl-arious – Shows the lighter side of Halloween with a take on a fun, funny or otherwise hilarious costume.
Spook-tacular – Get ready to frighten America by showcasing the most spine-chilling costume for all the ghosts and ghouls out there.
Mad Genius – Unique, original, innovative and never seen before. A knight in armor fashioned from bottle caps, bat wings made from old umbrellas, or a cardboard-box jetpack, the possibilities are endless. Display a costume unlike any other — show your Mad Genius.
Blast from the Past – Take a stroll down memory lane with a timeless costume. Memories, nostalgia and yesteryear brought to life. Show your take on great figures from before the 20thcentury or a retro 50’s sock hop get up, 60’s flower child or other “period” inspired costumes.
Animal Kingdom – Transform into a living creature from the past or present. Be a roaring lion, a school of jellyfish, a firefly, or a Tyrannosaurus Rex.
Everyday Stuff – We’re looking for the coolest refrigerator/freezer, remote control, mailbox, block of Swiss cheese, telephone and more. Be creative and transform the ordinary into the extra-ordinary.

[/unordered_list]For more information on how to enter, as well as to check out the latest entries, please visit hubworld.com/halloween. The deadline to enter is Sunday, September 29, 2013.

New Trailer for 'Thor: The Dark World' mobile Game Coming in November

By

Robbie Bulus

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September 6, 2013

Having previously teamed up to develop several successful games including The Amazing Spider-Man and Iron Man 3 – The Official Game, Gameloft, a leading global publisher of digital games, and Marvel are joining forces once again to bring the official game inspired from the highly anticipated new movie Thor: The Dark World to iPhone, iPad, iPod touch and Android.

In this free-to-play game, Thor must restore order to the Nine Worlds. Perform all of the God of Thunder’s iconic combat moves as you lead Asgardian forces, including the Warriors Three, in over 100 exciting and varied missions against Marauders and Dark Elves. Gameloft’s stunning HD game engine brings to life the beauty of the Thor universe and worlds like Jotunheim and Asgard. Thor: The Dark World will also include a compelling social multiplayer element where fans join forces to earn victory. An original story inspired by the film and cowritten by famed Marvel writer Christopher Yost provides a gripping narrative for the game.

“Thor: The Dark World – The Official Game will allow fans of the franchise to play as one of Marvel’s most iconic Super Heroes in a game of epic scope and beauty.” said Javon Frazier, VP Games Marketing at Marvel. “With this new game, we are further expanding the successful relationship between Marvel and Gameloft.”

Thor: The Dark World –The Official Game will be released in conjunction with the theatrical film from Marvel in November.

Friday the 13th Mischief Is Bi-Coastal at Disney Parks During Unleash the Villains Event Sept. 13, 2013

By

Robbie Bulus

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September 6, 2013

Disney’s dastardly villains are ready to unleash some Limited Time Magic at Disney Parks on September 13 — Friday the 13th..

Both Disneyland Park and Disney’s Hollywood Studios at Walt Disney World Resort will stay open until the 13th Hour (1 a.m.). To celebrate the momentous evening, notorious Disney villains like Maleficent, Capt. Hook, Hades will host a wicked dance party, plus lots more spooky fun.

The hub of the villains’ festivities will be staged “dead” center of Disney’s Hollywood Studios at Hades’ Hangout – the hottest club north of the Underworld.

The “Lord of the dead,” Hades, will host spine-tingling fun while his henchmen, dancers, interactive DJ and hot house band keep the nighttime activities on fire. Hades’ 13 devilish Disney brutes will be waiting in Villain Encounters surrounding Hades’ Hangout for greetings and autographs with guests.

To celebrate the imminent arrival of the midnight witching hour “Villainy in the Sky” will set the sky ablaze with spectacular fireworks, and keep the party going until the 13th hour.

It’s all happening for a limited time only from 8 p.m. – 1 a.m. on Friday, September 13, 2013 as part of Limited Time Magic at Disney Parks. Limited Time Magic features 52 weeks of magical experiences — big and small — ranging from park-wide events to special culinary treats to special moments of surprise and delight.

On this spooktacular evening, villains will take over Disneyland as well. Town Square is transformed for the party where guests may see villains like Captain Hook, the Queen of Hearts, Judge Frollo and Lady Tremaine. Cobwebs and vines, Halloween-themed projections, lighting effects and an eerie fog set the tone for the evening. Witches and warlocks will get the dance party started, spinning a mix of upbeat Halloween tunes and Disney-friendly Top 40 hits.

Later in the evening, the twisted celebration spills over to New Orleans Square Train Station with lurking Disney villains ready for the Unleash the Villains Dance Party featuring a lit-up dance floor and raised platforms, spooky décor and lighting effects. A mischievous station master DJ conducts this party — announcing the arrival of a different ghoulish Disney villain at the 13th minute after every hour. Villains will be on the prowl after dusk for photo ops and character greetings, plus a few special surprises.

Party Like a Villain at the Disneyland Resort
Dive into the madness at Disneyland Park as you make way for Main Street, U.S.A. where you can dance the night away at “Party Like a Villain”—a seriously naughty celebration taking place in Town Square. While there, soak up a series of nefarious sights as a seething selection of the most infamous Disney Characters make a series of appearances.

In dire need of a villainous outfit of your own? Cover your skin in the official “Unleash the Villains” tee, available while supplies last at the New Orleans Cart in Disneyland Park, as well as Tower Hotel Gifts in Disney California Adventure Park. And for a tasty tribute to the ominous occasion, give into a tempting trove of treats—including Spooky Kooky Gingerbread Cookies, Pumpkin Beignets and Eerie Green Frozen Lemonade—available at multiple locations around New Orleans Square.*

As the eve takes over the sky, join the river of souls in attendance at the Unleash the Villains Dance Party near the New Orleans Square Railroad Station. Scare up an unforgettable time as a spooky Station Master unleashes the evil evening in tandem with a collection of detestable Disney baddies, including the Evil Queen, Captain Hook, Dr. Facilier, Judge Frollo, Lady Tremaine and the Queen of Hearts.

A Scary Good Time You Won’t Want to Miss
No matter where you celebrate, you’re sure to enjoy a supremely villainous event. Wallow in this bit of Limited Time Magic while you can, unleashed for one night only on September 13, 2013!

*Different varieties of “Unleash the Villains” snacks and treats can be found as a series of locations at New Orleans Square, including:[unordered_list style=”bullet”]

French Market – Fiery Meatloaf Sliders with Cajun House Chips and Grapes, Oreo Mousse Coffin Dessert and Haunted Mansion Holiday Souvenir Hot Mug
Café Orleans – Pumpkin Beignets Served with Vanilla Cream Anglaise
Royal Street Verandah – Pumpkin Fritters with Apple Cider Caramel Custard Dipping Sauce, Pumpkin Latte, Haunted Mansion Holiday Souvenir Hot Mug and Spooky Kooky Gingerbread Cookie
Mint Julep Bar – Pumpkin Latte, Pumpkin Beignets, Haunted Mansion Holiday Souvenir Hot Mug and Spooky Kooky Gingerbread Cookie
Frozen Lemonade Cart – Spooky Kooky Gingerbread Cookie
New Orleans Square Popcorn Cart – Haunted Mansion Holiday Souvenir Popcorn Bucket
Harbour Galley – Spooky Kooky Gingerbread Cookie

[/unordered_list]

Jawbone’s Best – Selling Wireless Speaker Gets Pocketable, Brings All Your Mobile Audio to Life

By

Robbie Bulus

-

September 4, 2013

Jawbone®, a leader and innovator in smart audio devices and wearable technology, today announced MINI JAMBOXTM, a new addition to its best-selling JAMBOX® family of Bluetooth® speakers. MINI JAMBOX goes everywhere to add remarkable sound to every occasion. It lets you enjoy and share all of your content – movies, TV shows, games, music and calls – out loud from your phone or the cloud at any moment, completing all of your entertainment experiences with great wireless audio.

“At Jawbone, we believe in creating products that make daily experiences better – that’s why we created MINI JAMBOX,” said Travis Bogard, vice president of product management and strategy at Jawbone. “MINI JAMBOX goes with you literally everywhere and lets you take advantage of the spontaneous moments when you want to enjoy or share your entertainment, like streaming from Spotify on a road trip, showing friends a trending Vine clip at a party, or calling your family via Skype while honeymooning in Europe. Since you already watch and listen to most of your content on your phone or tablet, the best speaker is going to be the one that’s always with you. With MINI JAMBOX, you’ll have great-sounding audio wherever you are.”

Sophisticated Unibody Design

MINI JAMBOX is crafted from a single piece of extruded aluminum that makes up both the framework and the face of the speaker, simultaneously producing its audio and its iconic industrial design. Inside the aluminum encasement, a rigid, airtight enclosure creates a maximally efficient acoustic cavity for producing sound. Outside, the precisely sculpted aluminum exterior exudes an innovative blend of high tech and high design.

“Jawbone’s rich history of expertise in design, technology, hardware and software has allowed us to deliver a speaker that’s smaller, lighter and louder than ever before,” said Yves Behar, chief creative officer for Jawbone. “Its unibody aluminum chassis is a complete redesign of our iconic JAMBOX and our most avant-garde speaker design yet, allowing us to pack even more sound and technology into a significantly smaller and more portable package.”

Inside its compact nine-ounce package, an airtight enclosure features two neodymium drivers and a passive bass radiator to produce the highest-quality sound for its size. Using advanced digital signal processing technology, MINI JAMBOX is optimized to play all types of audio content and all genres of music with the fullest sound possible – movies, games, voice, and music from hip hop to classical. A built-in, rechargeable lithium-ion battery delivers up to 10 hours of continuous playback and 75 hours of standby time on a single charge.

Powered by Software

MINI JAMBOX comes with a free Jawbone application for iOS and Android that lets you customize MINI JAMBOX and curate the playlists you love right from your smartphone or mobile device (playlist services currently available on iOS only; coming soon to Android). Simply add your iTunes, Rdio, and Spotify music libraries to the Jawbone app to access all your favorite playlists in one place, and seamlessly switch back and forth between services with the swipe of a finger.

The new Jawbone app also lets you personalize the name of your MINI JAMBOX and quickly demo the 11 voices and 8 language options for the voice prompts on your speaker. Customize the Talk button on MINI JAMBOX via the Jawbone app to initiate a variety of different functions, like activating Siri or automatically dialing your favorite contact. Because MINI JAMBOX is equipped with a high-quality Type-1 compliant speakerphone, you can enjoy and share crystal-clear calls or video conferences out loud from any location.

MINI JAMBOX can also be updated with LiveAudioTM – Jawbone’s immersive, three-dimensional listening experience – directly from Jawbone.com. Turn it on to experience movies and games as if you’re right in the middle of the action. And, as other features and services are released for the updateable SmartSpeakerTM, MINI JAMBOX will become even better over time.

Pricing & Availability

MINI JAMBOX is priced at $179.99 and comes in nine eye-catching designs (Red Dot, Silver Dot, Graphite Facet, Blue Diamond, Aqua Scales, Purple Snowflake, Yellow Dot, Orange Dot, and Green Dot). It is available for pre-order beginning today at Jawbone.com and at major retailers nationwide and online later this month.

The Jawbone app (for iOS and Android) is available today as a free download from the App Store and on Google PlayTM. Streaming and playlist services, currently available on the Jawbone app for iOS, are compatible with all Jawbone speakers and third-party audio devices. Streaming and playlist services on the Jawbone app for Android will be available soon. Customization tools on the Jawbone app are exclusive to MINI JAMBOX.

Socalthrills.com

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