Ed Norton not returning as Banner/Hulk for the Avengers film

Marvel Studios confirmed Edward Norton will NOT be playing Bruce Banner/The Incredible Hulk in their highly anticipated film The Avengers expected to be released in 2012. Kevin Feige, Marvel Studios' President of Production made this statement:

"We have made the decision to not bring Ed Norton back to portray the title role of Bruce Banner in the Avengers. Our decision is definitely not one based on monetary factors, but instead rooted in the need for an actor who embodies the creativity and collaborative spirit of our other talented cast members. The Avengers demands players who thrive working as part of an ensemble, as evidenced by Robert, Chris H, Chris E, Sam, Scarlett, and all of our talented casts. We are looking to announce a name actor who fulfills these requirements, and is passionate about the iconic role in the coming weeks."

Are they saying Norton isn't a team player?

Just when you thought Marvel Studios was headed in the right direction, they pull this rug from underneath us. Edward Norton as Bruce Banner/the Hulk was a perfect fit, much like Bale and Downey Jr. were perfect for Batman and Iron Man respectively. What made them so believable was that you could see elements of the actor in the roles they played and vice verse. Swapping Edward Norton will be hard to stomach simply because he did a great job portraying the role. Also, seeing Downey Jr. and Norton in a film together would've been awesome as they are two of my favorite actors! Whoever they pick to replace Norton will have some big shoes to fill. Hulking big shoes in fact!

I wonder if any of this has anything to do with the directing credit Ed Norton was denied while filming The Incredible Hulk? You can read the full article here.

Movie Review: Toy Story 3

Toy Story 3 has reunited our favorite group of toys with laughter, tears and adventure. Andy’s grown up and the remaining toys stick together as they find their new home isn’t quite what they expected. With Andy on his way to college, the feel of the film is basically a long goodbye. The trailer alone sets the stage with Woody saying “…we all knew this day would come…” I was concerned. Worried the entire film would be a nostalgic cry-parade of goodbyes. It turned out it wasn’t. They skillfully balance the film, placing Woody and the gang in the worst environment imaginable for toys, daycare. Suddenly the film becomes a grand escape scenario from prison (aka daycare).

Toy Story 3 has many tear jerking moments, but from beginning to end, it’s a wonderful laugh riot for all ages and is a great farewell to the Toy story legacy. Toy Story 3 is a great reflection of Pixar’s maturity over the years. It’s clear the story tellers and writers at Pixar have grown-up alongside us. I give Toy Story 3 two thumbs way up!

Who would've thought Spider-Man would have the best pancakes in town?

And here I thought the toaster Sheldon had on Big Bang Theory was cool. You know, the one that produced Cylon toast! Well, I think this one takes the cake... or pancake rather. White elephant gift item? Check!


And just for reference...

UD Replicas: Iron Man Mark V - Suitcase Leather Armor Update

UD Replicas released new photos for their latest design, Iron Man Mark V: Suit Case Armor. Sale orders open starting tomorrow, July 1st. Compared to the Dark Knight suit, this makes more sense on the road considering how bright it is. Those of you who don't drive motorcycles, it's important to be visible on the road so you don't get hit by over zealous soccer Mom's in SUV's. I love my Dark Knight suit, but you will never catch me wearing that thing at night fighting crime on the road. Do you guys like the pseudo RDJ modeling the suit?

In addition, the Batman Begins and Dark Knight utility belt is slated to go on sale as well. Thanks to David Pea at UD Replicas for the latest updates.


You can UD Replicas site/store here.

AT-AT: Man's best friend!

This video put together by Patrick Boivin has been taking Youtube by stormtrooper! I'm going to go ahead and call it right now... Patrick... it won't be long until Lucas calls you to either sue you or give you a job! Fantastic work!

Superman/Batman: Apocalypse

September 28, 2010 is the expected release date for WB Entertainment's newest DC animated movie, Superman/Batman: Apocalypse. Below is the cover art thanks to Supermanhomepage.com. Much like Superman/Batman: Public Enemies, Superman/Batman: Apocalypse will be based of the comic counterpart put together by Jeph Loeb and the late Michael Turner. I'm really impressed with the cover art, and I'm hoping the film will faithfully follow the original story arc as the image below suggests. More importantly, I'd like to see Kevin Conroy and Tim Daly reprise their roles as Batman and Superman respectively.

Batman: City of Scars

If you have half-an-hour to spare, this fanfilm called Batman: City of Scars is definitely worth checking out. This film was put together by Aaron Schoenke for $27k with of shooting time of 21 days. This is one of the best fan-made movie shorts I've seen yet!

Blue Beetle Movie - Test Shots

Leave it to DC Entertainment's Geoff Johns to take c-listed superheroes and writing them in a-list fashion. Newly appointed Chief Creative Officer, Geoff Johns, names Blue Beetle as one of his favorite characters he'd like to see on the big screen. In addition, he put together these live action mock-ups to bring his vision to life. Looks pretty solid to me! You can read the full article here.

Batman Arkham Asylum Figures Series 2

A second wave of Batman Arkham Asylum figures have officially been announced! As awesome as they look, and with the popularity and demand for this figure series, why the hell are they still going with the two tone Batman cape color?

Batman in Memento

I wonder if Christopher Nolan had any idea that he was going to be filming Batman Begins while he was shooting Memento? Mind you, there's a six year difference between Memento and Batman Begins' release. If he didn't know, it must've been destiny because Batman had a two second appearance in Memento. I was watching this movie last night half asleep when this scene hit me like a brick wall!