As Comic-Con International 2015 #SDCC kicks off in San Diego, Universal Cable Productions (UCP) has unveiled several new deals that will continue to fortify the studio’s growing genre library and cater to the high demand for television content inspired by science fiction, graphic novel and comic book stories. As part of its overall deal with Valhalla Entertainment, UCP today announced renowned graphic novel writer Warren Ellis (New York Times best-seller “Gun Machine”, and “Iron Man: Extremis” – the Marvel Comics graphic novel and basis for “Iron Man 3”), will adapt the popular 1970s Mexican comic book and Televisa format “El Pantera” as his first original TV series with Gale Anne Hurd set to executive produce and Televisa USA to co-produce.
Based on the popular 1970s Mexican comic book and hit Spanish language TV series adapted by Televisa, “El Pantera” is a vigilante crime drama set in a fictional metropolis on the U.S. Mexico Border. When a young officer is appointed Head of Police, he only has one request: He asks that his friend, who was wrongfully imprisoned, be set free. Under the guise of his rumored death, the two create ‘El Pantera’ to rid the city of the Mexican mob. Warren Ellis is set to adapt the comic with Gale Anne Hurd’s Valhalla Entertainment attached to produce and Televisa USA to co-produce with UCP.
UCP is also developing the award-winning cult British film, “The Machine” into a scripted series for Syfy with the film’s Caradog James (“Little White Lies”) set to write the script and John Giwa-Amu (“The Silent Storm”) to produce. The story follows a brilliant computer programmer, desperate to save his terminally ill daughter, who creates the first-ever piece of self-aware artificial intelligence. But things go terribly wrong when the technology, designed to help injured soldiers, is hijacked by the government and used to create the ultimate robotic weapon. “The Machine” will follow multiple storylines as it takes a broad view of cutting edge scientific breakthroughs in genetic engineering, trans-humanism, and artificial intelligence.
Additionally, the studio has recently optioned the critically acclaimed comic series “Kill Shakespeare”, created by Anthony Del Col and Conor McCreery, and released by IDW Publishing (“Orphan Black”, “Locke & Key”). This dark take on Shakespeare – which has also spawned a stage production and board game – pits his greatest heroes (Hamlet, Juliet, Othello, Falstaff) against his most menacing villains (Richard III, Lady Macbeth, Iago) in an epic adventure to find and kill – or save – a reclusive wizard named William Shakespeare. Anthony Del Col and Conor McCreery are set to write.
“These projects speak to UCP’s continued commitment to genre and aligning with the best talent in the business. Warren Ellis and Gale Anne Hurd are a genre dream team – ideal visionaries to adapt Mexico’s iconic comic ‘El Pantera’,” said Dawn Olmstead, Executive Vice President of Development, Universal Cable Productions. “Comic-Con has been fertile ground for mining great content – it was there five years ago that I first heard about ‘Kill Shakespeare’ and have been chasing it since. They had me at a love triangle between Romeo, Juliet and Hamlet. Set in a world where all of Shakespeare’s villains are seeking to find their creator and destroy him, is well, very Shakespearian. ‘The Machine’ is a profound story that allows us to explore a poignant and unique relationship between science fiction and humanity.”
UCP also announced this week a first-look production deal with legendary comic book publisher, Dark Horse Entertainment (“The Mask”, “Hellboy”) focused on developing and producing scripted programming from their extensive comic book library as well as new material. Initial discussions that began at last year’s Comic-Con have yielded multiple television projects with direct involvement from the comics creators – among them: “Harrow County”, based on the comic written by Cullen Bunn (“The Damned”, “The Sixth Gun”) and illustrated by Tyler Crook (“Bad Blood”); “The Umbrella Academy” created by Gerard Way (lead singer of “My Chemical Romance”, and writer of “The True Lives of the Fabulous Killjoys”) and Gabriel Ba (Daytripper); and “Concrete” from Eisner award-winning comics legend Paul Chadwick.
Other notable genre projects in UCP’s development pipeline include: for Syfy: “Channel Zero”, a horror anthology series from Nick Antosca (“Hannibal”, “Friday the 13th”) set to write the script, and Max Landis (“Chronicle”, “American Ultra”) set to produce. The first season will be based on “Candle Cove” by Kris Straub, a story that originates from the user-generated internet horror phenomenon known as creepypasta; “Brave New World”, based on the classic novel by Aldous Huxley (“Ape and Essence”) published in 1932 with Les Bohem (“The Alamo”) set to write, and Amblin (“Jurassic World”) attached to produce; “Hyperion”, based on the Hugo Award-winning science fiction novels that form “The Hyperion Cantos” by writer Dan Simmons (“Summer of the Night”) with Bradley Cooper (Executive producer and actor in “American Hustle” and “Silver Linings Playbook”), Graham Kin (“Space Truckers”), and Todd Phillips (The Hangover”, “Project X”) attached to executive produce and Itamar Moses to write the script and serve as co-executive producer.
UCP is also developing “Dreadstar”, based on the classic 1980s character from the Marvel-owned Epic Comics imprint by iconic Marvel comic book writer Jim Starlin (“Amazing Spider Man” and “Captain Marvel”) with Evan Daugherty (“Snow White and the Huntsman”, “Divergent”) attached to adapt, BenderSpink (“Horrible Bosses 3”, “Leap Year”) attached to produce, and Starlin and Ford Gilmore set to executive produce.
At this year’s Comic-Con, events, panels and screenings featuring Universal Cable Productions TV series include:
Thursday, July 9
8:15PM – Room 6DE, San Diego Convention Center
Dominion on Syfy: EP Vaun Wilmott hosts an exclusive screening of the first two episodes of Season 2.
Friday, July 10
4:30PM – Room 6BCF, San Diego Convention Center
Colony – a co-production with Legendary Television coming to USA Network this fall. Expected to appear: Carlton Cuse, Ryan Condal, Josh Holloway, Sarah Wayne Callies and Peter Jacobson.
6:00PM – Omnia Rooftop, San Diego
Universal Cable Productions Comic-Con Cocktail Reception (by invitation)
Saturday, July 11
11:00AM – Indigo Room at the Hilton Bayfront Hotel
Childhood End coming to Syfy in 2016: Based on the Arthur C. Clarke classic novel. Stars from the upcoming six-hour miniseries expected to appear: Julian McMahon, Daisy Betts, and Yael Stone, director Nick Hurran and screenwriter Matthew Graham.
12:00PM – Indigo Room at the Hilton Bayfront Hotel
12 Monkeys on Syfy: EPs Terry Matalas and Travis Fickett, and stars expected to appear: Aaron Stanford, Amanda Schull, Kirk Acevedo, Barbara Sukowa, Emily Hampshire and Todd Stashwick.
12:00PM – Horton Grand Theatre, 444 4th Ave., San Diego
Colony Premiere Pilot Screening & Q&A
Sunday, July 11
11:00AM – Room 7AB, San Diego Convention Center
Spotlight on Lev Grossman: Author of The Magicians, adapted into a 2016 Syfy series from Universal Cable Productions. Expected to appear is Lev Grossman with moderators Sera Gamble and John McNamara, executive producers of the “The Magicians” TV series.
Directed by: Kishore Kumar Pardasani
Written by: Siva
Studio: North Star Entertainment
Runtime: 149 minutes
Genre: Action, Drama
Cast:
Pawan Kalyan as Katamarayudu
Shruti Haasan as Avanthika
Siva Balaji as Katamarayudu’s younger brother
Ajay, Kamal Kamaraju, Chaitanya Krishna in supporting roles
Katamarayudu is a Telugu-language remake of the Tamil film Veeram. This movie blends family drama with high-octane action sequences, delivering a narrative that is quintessentially rooted in southern Indian cinema’s flair for heroism and larger-than-life characters.
The story revolves around Katamarayudu, a righteous and fiercely protective elder brother who has dedicated his life to looking after his younger siblings. Known for his aversion to marriage, his life takes a turn when Avanthika, a poised and graceful woman, enters his life. The movie skillfully combines lighthearted romance, brotherly camaraderie, and intense action sequences, creating an engaging watch for the masses.
Kishore Kumar Pardasani delivers a visually grand spectacle while staying true to the essence of its Tamil original. While the screenplay lacks novelty, it compensates with fast-paced action and emotional beats. The dialogues, although simple, hit the right chords when it comes to showcasing family bonds and love.
Pawan Kalyan is the heart of the film. His screen presence and charismatic portrayal of Katamarayudu dominate every frame. Shruti Haasan offers a refreshing on-screen presence, and her chemistry with Pawan Kalyan adds charm to the narrative. The supporting cast, especially the actors playing the brothers, do justice to their roles, adding depth to the storyline.
The film boasts meticulously choreographed fight scenes, which are a visual treat for action lovers. Anup Rubens’ background score and songs elevate the emotional and action-packed moments. His mass appeal and command over action and emotion anchor the movie effectively.
The film adheres to a conventional template, leaving little room for surprises. At 149 minutes, the film feels stretched, especially in the second half.
Katamarayudu is a feast for fans of Pawan Kalyan and action-packed family dramas. It carries the essence of mass entertainment but doesn’t break new ground. While it caters to the sensibilities of Telugu cinema audiences, others might find its predictability a drawback.
Rating: 8/10 Fans of Pawan Kalyan and high-energy action films will undoubtedly enjoy this one, but those looking for a novel story might find it wanting.
“Do you want to watch a film with me? It’s called Marcel the Shell with Shoes On”
“What?”
“It’s about a little shell named Marcel who wears shoes.”
“…”
And that about sums it up! It’s the blob of a week between Christmas and New Year so it was the optimum time to watch a very surreal film recently added to UK Netflix.
Released in 2021 (a blob of a year) Marcel the Shell with Shoes On is about a one-inch-tall shell called Marcel who lives with his grandmother, Connie, in an Airbnb. Marcel usually stays out the way of the house’s various guests as he utilizes his only means of fast transportation (a tennis ball) and walks his pet lint on a string (Alan). This is until a documentary filmmaker named Dean, who is staying at the Airbnb, discovers Marcel and his unique lifestyle.
As filmmakers are wont to do Dean begins to film interviews with Marcel, consequently we get an insight into Marcel’s world both inside and out. Yes, Marcel is a stop-motion hermit crab shell with surprisingly expressive googly eyes but he feels very human. I was unsure about Marcel’s age and gender because he sounds a lot like Lisa Simpson, I did even check that Marcel wasn’t voiced by Yeardly Smith. But Marcel is voiced superbly by Jenny Slate. Marcel comes off as quite childlike with his wide-eyed optimism and naivety (he is a shell I suppose). Yet, like many children, Marcel will utter something so profound he will seem more of a fossil than a shell. When Dean uploads Marcel’s interviews onto YouTube Marcel of course becomes a viral sensation. Marcel reads the comments on his videos, using his tiny shoes to activate the laptop touchpad, which is just adorable! Despite his obvious popularity, Marcel remarks; “It’s an audience. It’s not a community.” Which just drives a stake into the heart of social media.
No, Marcel does not become a teeny-tiny-TikToker, he in fact uses the internet to find his lost community. The house used to be full of anthropomorphic objects including Marcel’s own shell family. They had been living in the house for generations, Connie herself came from the garage travelling by coat pocket to the main house; it’s why she has an accent. Among the community there are anthropomorphic pieces of cereal and because the internet notices this stuff; a tampon! An unfortunate event occurred and the community were accidentally removed from their home one tragic night, leaving Marcel and Connie on their own.
Being an A24 film I knew it would get deep. Marcel’s journey gives the audience a unique perspective of life, death, and community. In a modern world where we are more connected than ever but loneliness has been recognized as a universal health crisis. We could all learn something from this talented little shell and his grandmother. Be like Marcel and don’t get sanded down by life, stay connected to your community and know you are not just rattling around on your own!
It’s a beautifully poignant and quirky film. Despite its metaphysical and existential content, the film doesn’t take itself too seriously. Whether it’s Marcel making rope by winding together the pubic hairs he finds in the drain (he calls them ‘hardy hairs’) or sleeping on slices of bread referring to them as his ‘breadroom’. The film is painstakingly detailed and you can see its roots in a short film. It’s a delightful adventure that has something far bigger to say than its minuscule protagonist.
Five stars.
As an anime enthusiast and entertainment journalist, I’ve curated a list of the top five must-see anime series of 2024. These selections showcase the diversity and creativity that define the medium, offering compelling narratives and stunning animation.
Delicious in Dungeon
This series combines culinary arts with fantasy adventure, following a group of dungeon explorers who cook and eat the monsters they defeat. The unique premise and mouth-watering depictions of fantasy cuisine make it a standout this year. Kaiju No. 8
Set in a world plagued by kaiju attacks, the story centers on a protagonist who gains the ability to transform into a kaiju himself. The series offers a fresh take on the kaiju genre, blending action with deep character development.
Kaiju No. 8
Set in a world plagued by kaiju attacks, the story centers on a protagonist who gains the ability to transform into a kaiju himself. The series offers a fresh take on the kaiju genre, blending action with deep character development. Solo Leveling
Adapted from the popular web novel, this anime follows a weak hunter who becomes the world’s strongest after a mysterious system grants him unique abilities. Its dynamic animation and gripping storyline have captivated audiences worldwide.
Solo Leveling
Adapted from the popular web novel, this anime follows a weak hunter who becomes the world’s strongest after a mysterious system grants him unique abilities. Its dynamic animation and gripping storyline have captivated audiences worldwide. The Elusive Samurai
Set in feudal Japan, this historical series follows a young samurai who uses his agility and wit to survive in a turbulent era. The anime’s blend of historical context and engaging action sequences has garnered critical acclaim.
The Elusive Samurai
Set in feudal Japan, this historical series follows a young samurai who uses his agility and wit to survive in a turbulent era. The anime’s blend of historical context and engaging action sequences has garnered critical acclaim. Dragon Ball Daima
The latest installment in the iconic Dragon Ball franchise, this series introduces new transformations and challenges for Goku and his friends. Its high-octane battles and nostalgic elements appeal to both longtime fans and newcomers.
Dragon Ball Daima
The latest installment in the iconic Dragon Ball franchise, this series introduces new transformations and challenges for Goku and his friends. Its high-octane battles and nostalgic elements appeal to both longtime fans and newcomers. These anime series exemplify the innovation and storytelling prowess that continue to drive the medium’s global popularity. Whether you’re a seasoned otaku or new to anime, these titles are essential viewing for 2024.
Movie Review: Katamarayudu
You Are Not Ready for ‘Marcel the Shell with Shoes On’
Top Five anime in 2024
Mechanic Rocky
Nosferatu
Did JD from Scrubs Have a Dark Past?
You Are Not Ready for ‘Marcel the Shell with Shoes On’
‘Mufasa: The Lion King’ Will Leave You Breathless
Is ‘Kraven the Hunter’ a Total Letdown?
Nosferatu
Comic-Con 2024: Arthur C Clarke’s Venus Prime TV series
Comic-Con 2024: Max Collins’s TRUE NOIR
Comic-Con 2024: Will Wight’s Cradle
Interview With Heroes & Villains Creative Director Doug Johnson
Thatsmye Interviews: Les Weiler on Henchin’: the Series
