HISTORY’s hit drama series “Vikings” returns to San Diego Comic-Con with several exciting opportunities for fans including a cast panel in Ballroom 20 that will reveal an exclusive mid-season five trailer, a Seer inspired booth on the convention floor, and an exclusive SDCC comic book entitled “Vikings: Causor.”
Additionally, HISTORY’s upcoming new UFO drama series “Project Blue Book” will make its SDCC debut with a cast panel and a unique, outside activation featuring real UFO cases and an attempt to make contact with life beyond earth from San Diego grounds. Executive produced by Robert Zemeckis, the drama series is inspired by the true, Top Secret investigations into Unidentified Flying Objects (UFOs) conducted by the United States Air Force from 1952-1969 and stars Aidan Gillen (“Game of Thrones”) and Michael Malarkey (“The Vampire Diaries”). HISTORY will also offer fans the opportunity to take home an exclusive “Project Blue Book” inspired comic book entitled “Project Blue Book – Case #1972.”
Please see details below and join in on the conversation by using #VikingsSDCC @HistoryVikings and #BlueBookSDCC.
HISTORY’s “VIKINGS” PANEL – Friday, July 20 from 11:45 a.m. – 12:45 p.m. – Ballroom 20
The cast of HISTORY‘s hit drama series “Vikings,” including Katheryn Winnick (“Lagertha”), Clive Standen (“Rollo”), Alexander Ludwig (“Bjorn”), Alex Høgh Andersen (“Ivar the Boneless”), Georgia Hirst (“Torvi”) and creator/writer, Michael Hirst, will get fans excited about the upcoming midseason premiere by discussing last season’s startling alliances, deaths and unbelievable betrayals as the Vikings fight to rule the world. An exclusive mid-season five sneak peek will be revealed. Cast subject to change.
HISTORY’s NEW DRAMA SERIES “PROJECT BLUE BOOK” PANEL – Saturday, July 21 from 6:45 p.m. – 7:45 p.m. Room 6A
HISTORY’s upcoming new drama series “Project Blue Book” is inspired by the work of Dr. J Allen Hynek and the true, top secret investigations into Unidentified Flying Objects (UFOs) and related phenomena conducted by the United States Air Force from 1952-1969. Series stars Aidan Gillen (“Game of Thrones”), Michael Malarkey (“The Vampire Diaries”), Neal McDonough (“Arrow,” “Legends of Tomorrow”) and Laura Mennell (“Alphas,” Watchmen), along with producers, will share details about what’s to come in the new series and reveal a sneak peek of the first season. Cast subject to change.
PROJECT BLUE BOOK HEADQUARTERS – July 19-22 from 10 a.m. – 7 p.m. daily (10 a.m. – 5 p.m. on Sunday, July 22nd) – Petco Parking Lot
HISTORY is giving SDCC attendees an exclusive sneak peek into the world of its upcoming drama series “Project Blue Book.” A top-secret government sector of the United States Air Force, Project Blue Book investigated the presence of UFOs and related phenomena on our planet.
Located in the Petco Parking Lot, Project Blue Book HQ will bring these real UFO cases back to life with immersive experiences, including a chance to send a message billions of miles into space in an attempt to answer the timeless question: is there life beyond earth?
VIKINGS “SEER’S LAIR” CONVENTION CENTER BOOTH – July 19-22 from 9:30 a.m. – 7 p.m. daily (9:30 a.m. – 5 p.m. on Sunday, July 22nd) – Booth #4215
Only the Seer knows what lies ahead in the upcoming season of HISTORY’s “Vikings” and this year at San Diego Comic-Con, fans have the opportunity to enter his lair and consult him about their own future in a hyper-shareable photo prophecy. Join us and see what the future has in store for you!
VIKINGS Comic Book – Series Creator Michael Hirst, Story and Cover by Andi Ewington, Artwork by Daniel Indro
Custom, limited edition VIKINGS comic books will be given to select fans who visit HISTORY’s “Seer’s Lair” convention center booth. In this exclusive comic book for SDCC, after the battle between Ragnar Lothbrok’s sons ends in chaos, the wrath of Thor comes down upon scavengers who have stolen Lagertha’s hammer amulet found in Astrid’s dying hands.
PROJECT BLUE BOOK Comic Book – Creator & Story by David O’Leary, Executive Produced by Robert Zemeckis, Sean Jablonski, Jack Rapke and Jackie Levine, Written by George Mann, Artwork by Mann House
Custom, limited edition “Project Blue Book” comic books will be given to select fans who visit the “Vikings” convention center booth and the “Project Blue Book Headquarters” activation on the Petco Parking Lot. In this exclusive comic book for SDCC, characters Dr. Allen Hynek and Captain Michael Quinn investigate real life Project Blue Book case #1972: The Pittsburg Kansas UFO encounter and interview William Squyres, a radio station musician who claims he saw a low-hovering object with clearly-defined windows and shadowy figures who may or may not have been human.
About “Vikings”
“Vikings” is the critically acclaimed series from creator and sole writer Michael Hirst (Academy Award® winning film Elizabeth and the Emmy® and Golden Globe® nominated series “The Tudors”) and is a family saga that tells the remarkable tales of the lives and epic adventures of the raiders and explorers of the Dark Ages. Across all platforms, the last season of “Vikings” averaged 11.2 million viewers per episode. “Vikings” is a top five drama across all of cable this year, and finished its season as the #1 original series on cable on Wednesday nights among all key demographics (Live+SD). Vikings averaged 3.7 million total viewers in Live+7.
In the mid-season five finale, legendary Viking Rollo (Clive Standen) returns just as the divide between the Lothbrok family climaxes with Ragnar’s sons battling each other to rule the world. The long-awaited faceoff ends with a strategic victory going to Ivar the Boneless (Alex Høgh Andersen) who vows vengeance on his betrayers with a direct target on Lagertha’s (Katheryn Winnick) back. Last seen in an unstable state and losing her appearance as a fierce Viking warrior, Lagertha is hopeful she will regain her spot in Kattegat as its rightful leader.
Season five cast includes series regulars Jonathan Rhys Meyers as “Bishop Heahmund” along with Katheryn Winnick (“Lagertha”), Gustaf Skarsgård (“Floki”), Alex Høgh Andersen (“Ivar the Boneless”), Alexander Ludwig (“Bjorn”), Georgia Hirst (“Torvi”), Peter Franzen (“King Harald”), Jordan Patrick Smith (“Ubbe”) and Marco Ilsø (“Hvitserk”).
“Vikings” is an international Irish/Canadian co-production by TM Productions and Take 5 Productions. MGM Television serves as the worldwide distributor outside of Ireland and Canada. “Vikings” is produced in association with Corus Entertainment.
Review of Kalki 2898 AD on Netflix
Rating: (4/5)
Kalki 2898 AD, directed by Nag Ashwin, is a visually ambitious sci-fi film featuring an ensemble of Indian cinema legends, including Prabhas, Amitabh Bachchan, and Deepika Padukone. The film is set in a dystopian future with a storyline that weaves mythology and science fiction, creating a unique cinematic experience for viewers.
The film’s narrative unfolds in a futuristic society where technology and ancient themes intersect. It begins with an immersive setup that introduces us to Prabhas’ character, Bhairava, who grapples with complex moral and existential questions in a world marked by political and ethical turmoil. Although the pacing can feel slow in parts, especially as it establishes the mythological underpinnings, the intensity and scope build significantly as the story progresses.
One of the most captivating aspects is the stunning visual effects. The production team, with a budget reportedly over 400 crore INR, utilized advanced CGI to craft expansive landscapes, dramatic space battles, and futuristic cityscapes that resemble scenes from Hollywood sci-fi giants. The action sequences, particularly those featuring Bachchan, stand out with their thrilling choreography and careful dramatic build-up. These sequences balance between traditional Indian cinema stylings and Hollywood’s polished sci-fi tropes.
While Kalki 2898 AD relies heavily on genre conventions, it manages to bring a fresh twist by blending mythological symbolism with modern sci-fi elements. However, some may find the film’s narrative occasionally predictable, and the focus on visual spectacle occasionally overshadows character development. Yet, the powerhouse performances from the lead cast, particularly Bachchan and Padukone, provide the emotional depth needed to keep audiences engaged.
In summary, Kalki 2898 AD is an impressive venture into the sci-fi genre for Indian cinema, successfully balancing myth with high-tech fantasy. While not without flaws, it’s an enjoyable and bold cinematic experience that’s worth a watch for fans of both Indian mythology and science fiction.
Gladiator 2 builds on the legacy of its predecessor, delivering a captivating story that honors the original while forging a compelling new path. The cast shines in their roles, with Paul Mescal delivering a powerhouse performance as Lucius, the now-grown son of Maximus. Mescal captures a blend of vulnerability and strength, embodying a character driven by both honor and revenge. Alongside him, Denzel Washington commands the screen, adding gravitas and depth to a key supporting role
The screenplay is a triumph, keeping the audience engaged at every turn. While the overarching story gives you a sense of where it’s headed, the journey remains unpredictable, and packed with twists. The film balances themes of legacy, vengeance, and redemption, weaving them seamlessly into the narrative.
Action sequences, particularly the gladiatorial combat, are visually pleasing. The fights are brutal and visceral, with just enough gore to feel authentic without veering into excess. Visually, Gladiator 2 is stunning. The production design, cinematography, and score come together to create a visceral and immersive experience.
As a follow-up to a beloved classic, Gladiator 2 meets expectations, proving to be both a thrilling spectacle and a worthy successor. It’s a 9/10—a tale of honor and legacy.
Jon M. Chu’s Wicked, the long-awaited cinematic adaptation of the Broadway musical, soars as a dazzling spectacle that captivates audiences with its lush visuals, heartfelt performances, and rich storytelling. The film, the first in a two-part series, delves into the origins of Elphaba and Glinda, exploring their unlikely friendship and the events that transform them into the Wicked Witch of the West and Glinda the Good.
Cynthia Erivo (Elphaba) and Ariana Grande (Glinda) lead the cast with exceptional performances. Erivo’s powerful vocals and nuanced portrayal of Elphaba’s internal struggles bring depth to the character. Grande, in her most notable film role to date, is both hilarious and heartfelt as Glinda, perfectly capturing her charm and comedic timing. Supporting performances by Jonathan Bailey (Fiyero), Michelle Yeoh (Madame Morrible), and Jeff Goldblum (the Wizard) add layers to the narrative, enriching the world of Oz with compelling subplots.
Chu, known for his work on Crazy Rich Asians and In the Heights, brings his signature style to Wicked, blending vibrant visuals with emotional resonance. The production design by Nathan Crowley is stunning, vividly rendering Oz with grandeur, from the Emerald City to Shiz University. Paul Tazewell’s costume design is equally striking, updating the Broadway look with cinematic flair. The score, by Stephen Schwartz and John Powell, retains iconic musical numbers like “Defying Gravity” while incorporating new arrangements that heighten their cinematic impact.
Critics have hailed Wicked as one of the best musical-to-film adaptations in decades, rivaling Chicago and Mamma Mia. Chu’s decision to split the adaptation into two parts allows for a deeper exploration of the story, giving audiences time to connect with the characters and their journeys. Fans of the Broadway show will appreciate its faithfulness to the source material, while newcomers will be enchanted by its universal themes of acceptance, ambition, and friendship.
With Wicked, Jon M. Chu has delivered a masterpiece that sets a new standard for musical adaptations. The film is a visual and emotional triumph, showcasing unforgettable performances and a meticulously crafted world. Whether you’re a fan of the original musical or new to the story, Wicked is a must-see cinematic event.
Rating: 3.5/5
Review of Kalki 2898 AD on Netflix
Gladiator 2 Builds On The Legacy Of Its Predecessor,
Wicked Soars As A Dazzling Spectacle
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