Trina Robbins, who famously became the first woman to draw the Wonder Woman character more than 30 years ago, and whose work in underground and mainstream comics goes back to the 1960s, was today named the second honoree in the Wizard World Hall of Legends, a new initiative to celebrate the artists, writers and insiders who have built the industry and those continue the traditions. Robbins will receive the award at a ceremony at Wizard World Comic Con Sacramento on Friday, June 16 at the Sacramento Convention Center.
In 1970, Robbins produced the very first all-woman comic book, “It Ain’t me, Babe.” In 1972 she was one of the founding mothers of “Wimmin’s Comix,” the longest-lasting women’s anthology comic book. (1972 – 1992)
In the mid-1980s, tired of hearing publishers and editors say that girls don’t read comics and that women had never drawn comics, she co-wrote (with Catherine Yronwode) “Women and the Comics,” the first of what would become a series of histories of women cartoonists. She has been responsible for rediscovering previously forgotten early women cartoonists like Nell Brinkley, Tarpe Mills, Barbara Hall, and Lily Renee.
Robbins was the very first female artist to draw Wonder Woman for DC Comics in 1986, and revisited Wonder Woman in 1996 with Colleen Doran in “The Once and Future Story” in 1998.
“I’m very pleased to be recognized by Wizard World and accept this in honor of the many women who continue to make their marks in comics,” said Robbins. “I’m looking forward to meeting the many talented creators in Sacramento next week.”
“Trina has paved a path and elevated all women in the comics industry for decades; from her early work in the underground space, to being the first female artist to draw Wonder Woman, to her continued efforts to highlight the work of female creators, she has spent her entire career in the comics industry as a true trailblazer,” said John D. Maatta, Wizard World President and CEO. “Her work as a creator and pioneer in the comics world makes her an ideal selection to the Wizard World Hall of Legends.
Robbins joins Rob Liefeld, creator of the popular Cable, Deadpool, X-Force and Youngblood franchises, who was presented the inaugural award on June 2 in Philadelphia.
The Wizard World Hall of Legends initiative, which will honor one or more figures from the comics world at each convention, is one in a series of enhancements that Wizard World is making in the comics area. Artist Alley in Sacramento features a standout lineup of creators, including Paolo Rivera (“Daredevil,” “The Valiant”), Steve Leialoha (“Spider-Woman,” “Coyote,” “Howard the Duck”), Jeremy Clark (“Escape From Monster Island,” “Grimm Fairy Tales Genesis: Heroes Reborn”), Phil Ortiz (“The Simpsons,” “Muppet Babies”), Tom Cook (“The Smurfs,” “He-Man”), Daniel Parsons (“Star Wars,” “Game of Thrones” Blu-Ray set), Genese Davis (Holder’s Dominion), and many more.
Comics creators at Wizard World Comic Cons are engaging with fans more than ever. The Creative Stage, active throughout every show, provides attendees additional opportunities to interact with artists and writers, with demonstrations, interactive Q&As, informative discussions, art raffles and auctions, learn-to-draw instruction and more.
Wizard World Comic Con events bring together thousands of fans of all ages to celebrate the best in pop culture: movies, television, gaming, live entertainment, comics, sci-fi, graphic novels, toys, original art, collectibles, contests and more. The eighth event scheduled on the 2017 Wizard World calendar, Sacramento show hours are Friday, June 16, 4-9 p.m.; Saturday, June 17, 10 a.m.-7 p.m.; Sunday, June 18, 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Kids 10 and under are admitted free with paid adult.
Wizard World Comic Con Sacramento is also the place for cosplay, with fans young and old showing off their best costumes throughout the event. Fans dressed as every imaginable character – and some never before dreamed – will roam the convention floor and participate in the famed Wizard World Costume Contest on Saturday evening.
Genre: Action, Fantasy, Martial Arts, Historical
Runtime: Each episode runs approximately 20-30 minutes
Director: Lin Hun (also the Creator)
Studio: Samsara Animation Studio
Main Voice Actors (Chinese Cast):Liu Zhi Shi as Wen Ren Yu Xuan Zhou Qi as Shen Nong Fang Yuan as Xuan
Overview
Fog Hill of the Five Elements is a breathtaking Chinese anime (donghua) that merges traditional Chinese ink-painting aesthetics with high-intensity martial arts action. Created and directed by Lin Hun, this series delivers a spellbinding visual experience that rivals, and in many ways surpasses, mainstream Japanese anime. Produced by Samsara Animation Studio, the anime is a labor of love, known for its hand-drawn animation and meticulous detail.
Set in a mythological world where elemental beasts roam free, the series follows the Five Elemental Envoys tasked with protecting humanity. The story focuses on Wen Ren Yu Xuan, the Fire Envoy, whose actions set off a chain of events threatening the delicate balance between humans and beasts. The tale is steeped in Chinese folklore and myth, weaving a complex narrative of duty, power, and sacrifice.
Without question, Fog Hill of the Five Elements is one of the most visually stunning animated series in recent memory. The blend of traditional Chinese ink wash painting with modern dynamic action scenes is masterful. Every frame looks like a moving scroll painting, with fluid character movements and kinetic fight choreography that puts many mainstream series to shame.
The characters are deeply tied to traditional archetypes found in Chinese legends but are fleshed out with emotional depth and conflict. Voice acting by Liu Zhi Shi, Zhou Qi, and Fang Yuan brings authenticity and gravitas to their respective roles. The dialogue is steeped in poetic language, enhancing the mythic feel of the story.
The soundtrack complements the epic visuals with traditional Chinese instrumentation mixed with modern elements. The sound design heightens the impact of every battle and emotional moment.
Rating: 9/10
Fog Hill of the Five Elements earns a 9 out of 10 for its groundbreaking animation style, deep mythological storytelling, and heart-pounding action. The only downside is its limited number of episodes and slow release schedule, which leaves fans craving more.
Pros
- Unparalleled hand-drawn animation
- Unique art direction inspired by traditional Chinese painting
- Rich mythological lore
- Epic fight choreography
Cons
- Sparse episode release
- Story pacing can be uneven at times
Final Verdict 9/10
If you’re an anime enthusiast or a fan of animation artistry, Fog Hill of the Five Elements is a must-watch. Its fusion of stunning visuals, martial arts action, and mythological storytelling makes it one of the standout titles in modern animation. Whether you’re into Japanese anime or Chinese donghua, this series deserves a spot on your watchlist.
Genre: Action, Drama
Language: Telugu
Director: Boyapati Srinu
Writer: Boyapati Srinu
Producer: Alexander Vallabha
Studio: Creative Commercials
Runtime: 158 minutes
Main Cast:
Nandamuri Taraka Rama Rao Jr. (NTR Jr.) as Rama Chandra / Chinna
Trisha Krishnan as Sathya
Karthika Nair as Neelaveni
Kota Srinivasa Rao, Nassar, and Venu Thottempudi in pivotal roles.
Where to Watch: Currently available for streaming on Sun NXT and Amazon Prime Video (check regional availability).
—
Dammu, directed by Boyapati Srinu, is a high-octane Telugu action drama that delivers exactly what it promises: mass entertainment, powerful dialogues, and larger-than-life action sequences. This film stands tall in NTR Jr.’s filmography, showcasing his unmatched screen presence, powerful dialogue delivery, and action hero persona.
The story follows Rama Chandra (NTR Jr.), an orphan raised in a loving environment. His peaceful life takes a turn when he learns about his royal lineage and is chosen to bring back honor to a powerful but fallen royal family. The narrative pits him against a ruthless rival family, setting the stage for intense confrontations, emotional dilemmas, and a classic good-versus-evil showdown.
This is NTR Jr.’s film through and through. His charismatic screen presence, intense emotional range, and commanding action sequences are the highlights of Dammu. Whether it’s delivering punchy mass dialogues or executing gravity-defying stunts, NTR Jr. proves why he’s one of the top mass heroes of Tollywood. His transformation from a soft-spoken man to a ferocious warrior fighting for justice is executed with nuance and raw energy.
As a lover of NTR Jr. movies, Dammu is a treat. His power-packed performance holds the film together even when the narrative feels familiar. Fans of his previous films like Simhadri and Yamadonga will appreciate the high-voltage drama and emotional depth he brings to the role of Rama Chandra.
Trisha Krishnan and Karthika Nair add grace and charm, though their roles are secondary to the male-centric narrative. Veteran actors like Kota Srinivasa Rao and Nassar lend strong support. Director Boyapati Srinu, known for mass entertainers (Legend, Sarrainodu), stays true to his brand with larger-than-life storytelling, heavy on action and sentiment.
The film is loaded with action sequences, choreographed to satisfy die-hard mass film lovers. The fight scenes are over-the-top yet entertaining, with NTR Jr.’s agility and intensity making them believable. MM Keeravani’s music and background score elevate key emotional and action moments. “Ruler” and “Dammu Dammu” are foot-tapping numbers that resonate with the film’s tone.
C. Ramprasad’s cinematography captures the grandeur and the rustic locations beautifully. Editing by Kotagiri Venkateswara Rao keeps the film’s pace brisk, although the second half could have been tighter.
NTR Jr.’s electrifying performance, Mass appeal with high-voltage action sequences, Powerful dialogues that will thrill fans, Strong emotional undertone in the storyline, Well-composed background score and songs, Weaknesses Predictable plotline with familiar trope,s Over-the-top violence and melodrama may not appeal to all Secondary characters are underdeveloped
Dammu is a full-on mass action entertainer, tailor-made for NTR Jr. fans and lovers of Telugu commercial cinema. His performance is the soul of the film, making it a must-watch for anyone who enjoys powerful hero-centric storytelling. Despite its predictability, Dammu delivers what it promises: high-voltage action, emotional drama, and a powerful lead performance.
Rating: 7.5/10 (An action-packed entertainer elevated by NTR Jr.’s magnetic presence and energy.)
Dammu movie review, NTR Jr. movies, Dammu 2012 film, Telugu action movies, NTR Jr. performance, Boyapati Srinu films, where to watch Dammu, Dammu rating, Tollywood mass action movies, Trisha Krishnan, Karthika Nair, NTR Jr. best movies.
Dante: Mary Arkham (Lady):
White Rabbit: Enzo Ferino:
Writers: Adi Shankar and Alex Larsen
Producers: Adi Shankar, Lee Seung-wook, Hideaki Itsuno
Genre: Animation, Fantasy, Action, Adventure
Episodes: 8
Runtime: Each episode ranges from 21 to 32 minutes
Story Overview: Set against a backdrop where demonic forces threaten to breach the human realm, the series follows Dante, a charismatic demon hunter-for-hire. Armed with his signature weapons and a mysterious amulet, Dante confronts the enigmatic White Rabbit, who orchestrates a series of supernatural events, including a bold attack on Vatican City. Alongside fellow hunter Mary Arkham, Dante delves into a hidden world where demons have evolved parallel to humanity, uncovering dark secrets that intertwine his fate with the world’s survival.
Review: Devil May Cry masterfully blends ’80s nostalgia with contemporary themes, creating a unique aesthetic that appeals to both longtime fans and newcomers. The animation is notably expressive, capturing the fluidity and intensity of the game’s combat sequences. The voice cast delivers commendable performances, with Johnny Yong Bosch embodying Dante’s devil-may-care attitude and Kevin Conroy lending gravitas to Vice President Baines. The series’ self-awareness and cheeky humor add layers to its dark narrative, making it a standout addition to Netflix’s animation lineup.
Rating: 8.5/10
Devil May Cry is a thrilling ride that captures the essence of its source material while offering fresh perspectives. It’s a must-watch for animation enthusiasts and fans of supernatural action alike.
Anime Review: Fog Hill of the Five Elements (Wu Shan Wu Xing)
Dammu (2012) Movie Review: NTR Jr. Delivers a Thunderous Mass Action Performance
Devil May cry
Allu Arjun: The Stylish Star Who Redefined Telugu Cinema
Empuraan (2025) Movie Review – A Thrilling, High-Octane Malayalam Sequel That Delivers Big
