When we reported on Iron Studios’ Mighty Morphin Power Rangers diorama last Summer, we noticed that a particular character was absent. Moreover, the set was missing an annoying, manic robot who made C-3PO look chill by comparison. That’s right; Alpha 5 was missing in action.
This week Iron Studios rectified this issue by announcing Alpha would finally join the mix. The spastic robot and Zordon’s, for a lack of a better word, slave will be $99.99 and $129.99 when he launches during the third quarter of this year.
Alpha 5 will come in two models, standard and deluxe. The deluxe model has a console and gem attached to the base, while the standard one does not. The price difference is $30, as the standard release is $99.99.
The statue is made from polystone and is hand-painted. Where, exactly, he fits into the Power Rangers diorama isn’t clear, but it’s probably supposed to go in the back. You know where people cannot see him.
Power Rangers came out when I was in my teens, where I was more entertained by cynicism and MTV than this type of show. So, I never got into it until the show became a proto-meme in the 2000s. I do, however, remember the non-stop marketing campaign when the first movie hit theatres.
Do you know what Alpha 5 reminds me of? A Psalty the Singing Pslam Book character. Look at him! You cannot tell me that he doesn’t look like something you’d see in an episode of Colby!
What do you think of Alpha’s inclusion in the Mighty Morphin Power Rangers diorama? Would you be willing to drop $100 to make sure the entire set was complete? Let us know your thoughts in the comments section below.
[Source: Iron Studios]
What Would Iron Studios’ Power Rangers Diorama Be Without Alpha?
Apple May Be Putting the Mac OS In A Keyboard?
Apple may soon be implementing the Mac OS into devices other than the all-in-one monitor or Mac Mini. PC Mag reported on the findings of Patently Apple that the computer manufacturer has filed an updated patent pointing to the potential merger of a Mac with another device.
Where we’ve seen Macs in monitors, what if the OS was inside a Keyboard or another device typically paired with a desktop computer? The US patent filing points to Apple’s newest type of all-in-one Macintosh.
The computing device 100 shown in FIG. 1A can also function as an input device, such as a keyboard, and can be used with a display 102. This is, however, merely one representative example of a computing device that can be used in conjunction with the ideas disclosed herein. The computing device 100 can, for example, correspond to a virtual keyboard, a track pad or touchpad, a mouse, a tablet computer, a combination thereof, or other input devices. The computing device 100 shown in FIG. 1A can be generally referred to as a keyboard having computing components which permit the keyboard to function as a desktop computing device. As shown, the computing device 100 can be used in conjunction with any number of monitors or displays 102, as well as other input devices such as a mouse 104, a track pad (see FIG. 5), a stylus (not shown), a microphone (not shown), or any combination of input devices.
This is a logical progression for Macs. If Apple wants to keep displays slim while eliminating desktop clutter, why not combine the smaller Mac Mini into the keyboard? This could make a desktop Mac even more portable if you could also stream wirelessly to an iPad or iPhone while traveling.
What do you think of Apple potentially combing input devices with a Mac? Let us know your thoughts and opinions in the comments section below.
[Source: PC Mag]
Eagly and Peacemaker Make Their Hot Toys Debute!
Peacemaker was not likable in The Suicide Squad, but James Gun gave John Cena’s character more redeeming qualities thanks to the HBO MAX series. There’s redemption, nudity, gore, violence, and all the things that make for worthwhile television. But what if I want to relive some of the show’s finer moments at home with my action figures?
As expected, Sideshow Collectibles has announced that Hot Toys is making a 1/6th scale figure of the well-meaning, if not bumbling, hero. The best part? He comes with Eagly! Peacemaker and Eagly are available now for pre-order. The duo is priced at $275 and has a release window between May and July 2023.
Sophisticatedly crafted with striking likeness of Peacemaker’s appearance portrayed by John Cena in the action series, the 1/6th scale figure features a newly developed helmet head and an interchangeable helmet covered in silver chrome finish with details, an attachable tongue to create alternate expressions, a specially tailored outfit, weapons including a sword, an axe, and a figure stand. The sidekick of the show – Eagly will also come as a sixth sixth scale accessory with spread wings for a complete collector experience.
Peacemaker comes with the following accessories and features:
- One (1) newly developed helmeted head with one (1) interchangeable silver chrome helmet
- One (1) attachable tongue for alternate expressions
- Screen-accurate facial expression with detailed skin texture
- Body with over 30 points of articulations
- Approximately 31.5cm tall
- Six (6) pieces of interchangeable gloved hands including:
- One (1) pair of fists
- One (1) pair of relaxed hands
- One (1) pair of weapon holding hands
- Each head sculpt is specially hand-painted
Costume:
- One (1) red and navy ringer tee with shoulder armors and Dove of Peace logo on the chest
- One (1) pair of navy blue-colored gauntlets
- One (1) pair of beige-colored pants with navy blue patterns
- One (1) utility belt with silver buckle
- One (1) pair of black boots
Weapons:
- One (1) sword
- One (1) axe
Accessories:
- One (1) Eagly(approximately 7cm tall) with one (1) pair of interchangeable spread wings
The first season of Peacemaker recently wrapped up on HBO MAX, and it was mostly fun. If you’re looking for a comic book-accurate portrayal of the character, forget it. If you’re a fan of James Gunn and his style of overblown gore, sexuality, and sometimes cringy sociopolitical commentary, this show will work for you.
FREEDOM!!!
[Source: Sideshow Collectibles]
Arcade1Up Makes Changes To ‘NBA JAM’ Cabinet With The ‘Shaq Edition’
Aracde1Up is beginning to make much-desired changes to its cabinets. Typically the only way to get an arcade machine playable if you’re standing is to install an additional riser. Sure, the risers are of good quality, but they ruin the clean look of the traditional cabinet. The Shaq Edition of NBA JAM is changing things up!
This NBA JAM cabinet is 67″ tall and all one piece according to Aracde1Up. As someone who owns multiple machines, I am beyond thankful for this change. The original cabinets with a riser would only come to about 58″ tall. The extra 9″ will make all the difference for those of us who are over 6’—no more hunching over!
Aside from the redesigned cabinet, there’s only one real change, and that is the screen. The previous NBA JAM cabinet had a 17″ screen. The Shaq Edition brings us a “new” 19″ screen. I’m not sure what this means as far as quality goes or what resolution this screen is set at. This release will come with NBA JAM, NBA JAM Tournament Edition, and NBA Hangtime.
Pre-orders are not available yet, but you can go to Arcade1Up.com and receive a notification when this cab goes on sale. The price point is also a mystery. These cabinets have been wildly out of control when it comes to price. Where they were once $299-$399, some of them skyrocketed up to and beyond $600.
- Light-Up Marquee
- WiFi Live and cross play with Arcade1Up’s original NBA Jam game machine, no monthly subscription required.
- Weight: 99.21 lbs
- Adjustable Volume
- Clear Deck Protector
- Anti-Tip Over Strap
What do you think of Arcade1Up finally making cabinets closer to the full-size ones we’re used to seeing in arcades? Let us know your thoughts and opinions in the comments section below.
[Source: Arcade1Up]
‘Pompo the Cinephile’ Is Heading To North American Theaters
GKids and Japanese animation studio CLAP has reached a licensing agreement where the former will release the comedy-drama ‘Pompo the Cinephile’ to a North American audience. Partnering with Fandom Events, the Japanese version will premier on Wednesday, April 27th with the English version hitting cinemas Thursday, April 28th.
“In addition to the full feature, audiences will view a special introduction from director Takayuki Hirao, exclusive to the Fathom Events screenings. Fan preview events will be followed by a limited theatrical release in select markets nationwide by GKIDS starting April 29th.” GKids said on their website. “With POMPO THE CINEPHILE acclaimed director Takayuki Hirao (“God Eater,” The Garden of Sinners), known for his dynamic, maximalist animation sequences, returns to the director’s chair with production from the all-new studio CLAP. An official selection and nominee for the Satoshi Kon Award for Best Animated Feature at the 2021 Fantasia Film Festival, POMPO THE CINEPHILE was domestically released on June 4, 2021, and swiftly became an indie hit.”
You can watch the trailer below:
The official synopsis explains that “Pompo is a talented and gutsy producer in “Nyallywood,” the movie-making capital of the world. Although she’s known for B-movies, one day Pompo tells her movie-loving but apprehensive assistant Gene that he will direct her next script: a delicate drama about an aging and tormented creative genius, starring the legendary and Brando-esque actor Martin Braddock, and a young actress seeking her first break. But when the production heads towards chaos, can Gene rise to Pompo’s challenge, and succeed as a first-time director?”
The Japanese cast includes Hiroya Shimizu, Konomi Kohara, Ai Kakuma, Akio Ōtsuka, and Ryūichi Kijima.
D-Rezzed previously reported the GKids had acquired to license to so an English dubbing of ‘Pompo The Cinephile.’ While no official cast list has been released, it will likely be announced ahead of its release.
‘Pompo the Cinephile’ Is Heading To North American Theaters
GKids and Japanese animation studio CLAP has reached a licensing agreement where the former will release the comedy-drama ‘Pompo the Cinephile’ to a North American audience. Partnering with Fandom Events, the Japanese version will premier on Wednesday, April 27th with the English version hitting cinemas Thursday, April 28th.
“In addition to the full feature, audiences will view a special introduction from director Takayuki Hirao, exclusive to the Fathom Events screenings. Fan preview events will be followed by a limited theatrical release in select markets nationwide by GKIDS starting April 29th.” GKids said on their website. “With POMPO THE CINEPHILE acclaimed director Takayuki Hirao (“God Eater,” The Garden of Sinners), known for his dynamic, maximalist animation sequences, returns to the director’s chair with production from the all-new studio CLAP. An official selection and nominee for the Satoshi Kon Award for Best Animated Feature at the 2021 Fantasia Film Festival, POMPO THE CINEPHILE was domestically released on June 4, 2021, and swiftly became an indie hit.”
You can watch the trailer below:
The official synopsis explains that “Pompo is a talented and gutsy producer in “Nyallywood,” the movie-making capital of the world. Although she’s known for B-movies, one day Pompo tells her movie-loving but apprehensive assistant Gene that he will direct her next script: a delicate drama about an aging and tormented creative genius, starring the legendary and Brando-esque actor Martin Braddock, and a young actress seeking her first break. But when the production heads towards chaos, can Gene rise to Pompo’s challenge, and succeed as a first-time director?”
The Japanese cast includes Hiroya Shimizu, Konomi Kohara, Ai Kakuma, Akio Ōtsuka, and Ryūichi Kijima.
D-Rezzed previously reported the GKids had acquired to license to so an English dubbing of ‘Pompo The Cinephile.’ While no official cast list has been released, it will likely be announced ahead of its release.
‘Jujutsu Kaisen 0’ English Voice Cast Revealed
The Japanese animation studio MAPPA and Toho Studios released ‘Jujutsu Kaisen 0,’ an anime prequel film to the television series based on the supernatural dark fantasy manga series written and illustrated by Gege Akutami. The film was released in Japan theatrically on December 24, 2021, with it arriving in North America in 2022. Now Crunchyroll has announced that they have acquired the license to produce an English dubbed version.
Crunchyroll said on their website that the film stars Kayleigh McKee (The Strongest Sage with the Weakest Crest) as Yuta Okkotsu, Anairis Quiñones (How a Realist Hero Rebuilt the Kingdom) as Rika Orimoto, Allegra Clark (The Seven Deadly Sins: Cursed by Light) as Maki Zen’in, Xander Mobus (Sword Art Online) as Toge Inumaki, Matthew David Rudd (Cells at Work! Code Black) as Panda, Kaiji Tang (Beyblade Burst Rise) as Satoru Gojo, and Lex Lang (Detective Conan: Zero the Enforcer) as Suguru Geto.
You can watch the trailer below:
Wikipedia describes the synopsis as follows,
“A young isolated high school student named Yuta Okkotsu suffers from a curse from his late girlfriend who follows him everywhere. Yuta’s solution is to completely isolate himself, however, upon meeting a sorcerer named Satoru Gojo who has different plans for him, Yuta decides to follow him to his school, in order to control the power of the curse. As a first-year student a Tokyo Metropolitan Technical college, Yuta learns all about Jujutsu arts and how to fight curses. He finally finds a place where he belongs and meets many people such as Toge Inumaki, Maki Zenin, and Panda.”
A companion book titled ‘Jujutsu Kaisen #0.5 Tokyo Prefectural Jujutsu High School’ was given to audience members at the local theaters in Japan upon the film’s release.
Sunghoo Park served as director for ‘Jujutsu Kaisen 0.’ Hiroshi Seko wrote the screenplay while Hiroaki Tsutsumi, Yoshimasa Terui, and Alisa Okehazama composed the music for the film.
Funimation Reveals ‘Show by Rock!! Stars!!’ English Voice Cast
‘Show by Rock’ is a mobile musical video game from developers Geechs and Edia. The popularity of the game led to the production of five different anime with the latest incarnation “Show by Rock!! Stars!!” being produced by the Japanese production company Kinema Citrus. Funimation announced that had acquired the rights to do an English dub.
“How’s this for a beat drop? All 12 episodes of the Show by Rock!! Stars!! English dub are coming to Funimation,” they said on their website. “The Mashumairesh!! band is back together for the new series, headlining Macy Anne Johnson as Howan, Emi Lo as Delmin, Giovannie Cruz as Himeko and Lindsay Sheppard as Ruhuyu.”
The rest of the cast includes Bryn Apprill (A Certain Magical Index II), Christopher R. Sabat (Dragon Ball Z), Alexis Tipton (Black Butler), Caitlin Glass (Ouran High School Host Club), Monica Rial ( Dance in the Vampire Bund), Ben Phillips (Yona of the Dawn), Rachel Robinson (Attack on Titan), Stephen Fu (Kakuriyo: Bed and Breakfast for Spirits), Ian Sinclair (Grimoire of Zero), Jad Saxton (Haganai: I don’t have many friends), Suzie Yeung (Demon Slayer: Kimetsu no Yaiba The Movie: Mugen Train), and Amber Lee Connors (Tales of Zestiria the X).
You can watch the teaser below:
Honey Anime describes the synopsis as follows,
“This story takes place in MIDICITY, the city of music. After leaving Under North Zawa to further their musical careers, Mashumairesh!! soon gets caught up in an incident. Then, in MIDICITY, they meet Plasmagica and a host of other unique bands, and a miracle ensues?! It’s an all-star, rockin’ musical tale featuring all the bands from the previous seasons of Show by Rock!!”
Sound Cadence Studios is handling the recording for the English voice cast while Megan Shipman will be taking over duties as the ADR director. Natalie Van Sistine will be handling the script.
Sci-Fi Comedy ‘Upload’ Season 2 Trailer Drops
The science fiction comedic drama ‘Upload’ is returning for a second season with Amazon’s Prime Video dropping the trailer.
According to a press release from Amazon Studios, “In ‘Upload’ Season Two, Nathan is at a crossroads in his (after) life… his ex-girlfriend Ingrid has unexpectedly arrived to Lakeview hoping to strengthen their relationship, but his heart still secretly yearns for his customer service angel Nora. Meanwhile Nora is off the grid and involved with the anti-tech rebel group “The Ludds.” Season Two is packed with new near-future concepts, including Lakeview’s newest in-app digital baby program, called “prototykes,” and other satirical glimpses of the technological advances and headaches to come.”
The show features Robbie Amell as Nathan, Andy Allo as Nora, Kevin Bigley as Luke, Allegra Edwards as Ingrid, Zainab Johnson as Aleesha, Owen Daniels as A.I. Guy, and Josh Banday as Ivan, and Andrea Rosen as Lucy.
You can watch the trailer for the second season:
Amazon Studios continue, “Prime Video released the official ‘Upload’ Season Two trailer and first look images ahead of its March 11 premiere date. The seven-episode second season will premiere exclusively on Prime Video in more than 240 countries and territories around the world. ”
“‘Upload’ is a sci-fi comedy series from Emmy award-winning writer Greg Daniels (The Office, Parks and Recreation), set in a technologically advanced future where hologram phones, 3D food printers and automated grocery stores are the norm. Most uniquely, humans can choose to be “uploaded” into a virtual afterlife,” they add.
The first season of ‘Upload’ featured a total of ten episodes which will bring the total number of episodes to seventeen.
The show is created and executive produced by Greg Daniels, who adapted the American version of ‘The Office.’ He also co-created ‘Parks and Recreation’ and the Netflix sitcom ‘Space Force.’ He also co-executive produced the TBS series ‘ People of Earth.’
It’s Pizza Time With NECA’s 1/4 Scale Cartoon Leo!
The 1987 Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles leader is NECA’s latest 1/4 scale action figure! Leonardo, complete with two katanas, a slice of pizza, and a turtle communicator, is ready to (kinda, sorta) use his blades to defeat the Foot Clan.
The 15″ tall mutant turtle was revealed over at Figures.com. This figure is specifically made to swap the faceplates with other 1/4 turtles. So you can even replicate those mistakes from the old cartoon where the bandana colors would accidentally swap around.
Leo is due out during the Fall, and a price point has not been announced yet. However, if supply chain issues and inflation stay factors, expect to pay closer to $200.
The third 1/4 scale figure from the classic 1987 Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles cartoon, Leonardo stands 15 inches tall with nearly 30 points of articulation and comes with four interchangeable top and bottom faceplates to portray a variety of expressions. These faceplates are interchangeable across all four Turtles in the Giant Size line!
If you’re just now getting into collecting the NECA TMNT cartoon line of action figures, here’s a guide of which characters are currently out:
As soon as I got Bats out of the packaging, I noticed that the ears on the cowl were curved inwards, making him look unintentionally goofy. I tried to fix this with hot air and a small block to keep the ears in place. Well, when I checked on the model the next day, one ear had just snapped off, although it had been under no pressure. I glued it back. When I attempted to pose the figure, his left arm snapped off at the should, and it could not be fixed. Ugh.
What experiences have you had with NECA figures? Let us know in the comments section.
[Source: Figures.com]
