New Global Launch Dates Confirmed for Disney+
Today, The Walt Disney Company’s Direct-to-Consumer and International (DTCI) segment confirmed that Disney+ will launch in Canada and the Netherlands, in tandem with the U.S., on November 12, 2019, and in Australia and New Zealand on November 19, 2019. DTCI also announced that Disney has reached global agreements with nearly all the major platforms to distribute the Disney+ app across partner mobile and connected TV devices. The streaming service is expected to launch in most major markets within the first two years.
Disney+ will offer fans of all ages a new way to experience the unparalleled content from the company’s iconic entertainment brands, including Disney, Pixar, Marvel, Star Wars, National Geographic and more, and will be available on nearly all major mobile and connected TV devices at launch with global distribution agreements in place with Apple, Google, Microsoft, Roku and Sony.
As the global rollout for Disney+ begins on November 12, Disney+ will be priced at $8.99CAD per month (or $89.99 per year) in Canada and €6.99 per month (or €69.99 per year) in the Netherlands. The following week, Disney+ will launch in Australia and New Zealand on November 19, priced at $8.99AUD per month (or $89.99 per year) and $9.99NZD per month (or $99.99 per year), respectively.
At launch, consumers will be able to subscribe to Disney+ directly or via in-app purchase and start streaming from the following partner platforms and devices (dependent on country):
Apple (iPhone, iPad, iPod touch and Apple TV, and fully integrated with the Apple TV app; customers can subscribe to Disney+ via in-app purchase)
Google (Android phones, Android TV devices, Google Chromecast and Chromecast built-in devices)
Microsoft (Xbox One)
Sony / Sony Interactive Entertainment (all Android based Sony TVs and PlayStation®4)
Roku (Roku® streaming players and Roku TV™ models)
This news follows the recent announcement that consumers in the U.S. will get a new and exciting value proposition with a bundled offering of Disney+, ESPN+ and Hulu for just $12.99USD. This means they get all of the Disney+ programming plus thousands of live sporting events, sports-themed original series and award-winning sports documentaries from ESPN+; as well as Hulu’s award-winning original content and on-demand streaming library.
Additionally, Disney+ is now live on social media. Consumers may follow along at the below accounts, or visit DisneyPlus.com to register their email and be kept up to date on the service.
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Monday, August 19, 2019
Saturday, August 17, 2019
Negromancer News Bits and Bites from August 11th to 17th, 2019 - Update #30
Support Leroy on Patreon:
MOVIES-CULTURE - From THR: NBA great and author Kareem Abdul-Jabbar has taken issue with the portrayal of legendary martial artist and actor, Bruce Lee, in Quentin Tarantino's "Once Upon a Time... in Hollywood.
----------
STREAMING-ANIMATION - From Variety: Netflix orders "Agent King," an adult animated action-comedy series that depicts Elvis Presley as a secret agent or super spy.
----------
MOVIES - From BleedingCool: Neill Blomkamp says he is off MGM's "Robocop Returns."
-----------
DISNEY/BOX OFFICE - From Deadline: With "Toy Story 4" crossing the one-billion dollar mark in global box office, Walt Disney Pictures becomes the first movie studio to have five pictures cross the billion dollar mark in global box office in a single year. Two late year releases, "Frozen 2" and "Star Wars: The Rise of Skywalker" could make it seven.
---------
MOVIES - From Deadline: Kevin Hart will star in and produce the superhero comedy, "Night Wolf," for STXfilms.
----------
MOVIES - From SlashFilm: Alexandre Aja ("Crawl") leads a talented group of filmmakers in an attempt to make an interactive haunted house movie.
----------
MOVIES - From Variety: Henry Golding ("Crazy Rich Asians") is in talks to star in the "G.I. Joe" spinoff, "Snake Eyes."
----------
DISNEY - From People: Disney offers a sneak peek at its live-action remake of its classic animated film "Lady and the Tramp" with a photo of its canine stars.
----------
TELEVISION - From Blackfilm: BET and Tyler Perry add new cast members, including DeVale Ellis and Kevin Walton, to their upcoming one-hour drama, "Sistas," which is due this fall.
----------
MOVIES - From Blackfilm: Vanessa Bell Calloway will reprise her role of "Imani Izzi" in the Coming to America sequel, which is due to hit theaters December 18, 2020. Comedian Luenell is also joining the cast.
----------
LGBTQ - From Variety: IMDb is changing its policy on publishing birth names in response to transgender customers and other entertainment figures.
----------
MEDIA - From Deadline: After 13 years apart (that long!), CBS and Viacom are once again one. The new entity will be called ViacomCBS Inc. Regulatory approval of the merger is expected to come in the next several months.
-----------
STREAMING/BDS - From Truthout: In the op-ed, "I Said No to a Netflix Series Audition Because I Support Palestinian Rights," actor David Clennon explains why he declined to participate in Netflix's upcoming series, "Sycamore," a co-production with Israel.
-----------
BOX OFFICE - From BoxOfficeMojo: The winner of the 8/9 to 8/11/19 weekend box office is "Fast & Furious Presents: Hobbs & Shaw" with an estimated take of 25.4 million dollars.
From Patreon: My review of "Fast & Furious Presents: Hobbs & Shaw."
----------
MOVIES - From Deadline: New Line Cinema is the winner of an intense bidding war for Olivia Wilde's directorial effort which exists as a spec script, entitled "Don't Worry Darling."
----------
AWARDS - From Deadline: 2019 Teen Choice Awards were announced. "Avengers: Endgame" and "Riverdale" take the top prizes.
----------
STREAMING - From IndieWire: In the end, things worked out for "Fast Color," a film about African-American female superheroes. Amazon will produce a TV series based on the film.
----------
MOVIES - From Variety: Universal Pictures has cancelled its release of the now-controversial film, "The Hunt." Produced in part by Jason Blum, the film was due September 27th.
From Variety: President Trump has been calling out Hollywood "racism," with "The Hunt" apparently being one of the "racist films" he targeted.
----------
MOVIES - From IndieWire: Quentin Tarantino says that if he comes up with a good idea, his next (and supposedly final) film would be a horror movie.
----------
ANIMATION - From IndieWire: The Walt Disney Company's "Disney discipline" hits Fox's former animation studio, Blue Sky Studios ("Ice Age" and "Rio" franchises).
----------
MOVIES - From THR: Josh Appelbaum and Andre Nemec, who wrote the recent "Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles" movies and "Mission: Impossible: Ghost Protocol," are writing a script for a "G.I. Joe" spinoff movie, which will reportedly be an ensemble piece. A "Snake Eyes" movie is due October 2020.
OBITS:
From THR: The Canadian born animator and filmmaker, Richard Williams, has died at the age of 86, Friday, August 16, 2019. Williams was best known for directing the animation on the live-action/animation hybrid, "Who Framed Roger Rabbit" (1988). He won an Oscar for his animated short film "A Christmas Carol" (1971), and in 1989, he shared a visual effects Oscar for "Who Framed Roger Rabbit," as well as receiving a "special achievement" Oscar for the film.
--------------------------------
From Deadline: The actor, Peter Fonda, has died at the age of 79, Friday, August 16, 2019. Fonda's best known film is the groundbreaking, counter-culture movie, "Easy Rider" (1969). Fonda also produced "Easy Rider," and shared an Oscar nomination for "Best Original Screenplay" with Terry Southern and the film's director, Dennis Hopper, for writing the film. Fonda was the son of legendary Golden Age actor, Henry Fonda, and was the young brother of actress Jane Fonda. Fonda's daughter, Bridget, is also an actor.
From Deadline: Jane Fonda issues a statement on the passing of her brother, Peter Fonda.
From Deadline: Hollywood reacts to the passing of actor Peter Fonda.
-------------------------------
From CNN: Actor and former firefighter, Dango Nguyen, has died at the age of 48, Saturday, August 10, 2019. Nguyen, who acted under the name "Dango Nu Yen," appeared in the third season of "The Walking Dead."
From YahooSports: NFL coach Darryl Drake has died at the age of 62, Sunday, August 11, 2019. Drake was currently the Pittsburgh Steelers' wide receivers coach. Drake has a brief NFL and CFL career after playing college football for Western Kentucky University (1975-1978). After a 20-year career coaching in the college ranks, in 2004, he began his NFL coaching career. He was a coach on the Chicago Bears 2006 team that won the NFC Championship and lost in the Super Bowl to the Indianapolis Colts.
From NFL: Pittsburgh Steelers Head Coach Mike Tomlin issues a statement on Darryl Drake's passing.
From NFL: Pittsburgh Steelers Team President Art Rooney II issues a state on Darryl Drake's passing.
-----------------------------------------
MOVIES-CULTURE - From THR: NBA great and author Kareem Abdul-Jabbar has taken issue with the portrayal of legendary martial artist and actor, Bruce Lee, in Quentin Tarantino's "Once Upon a Time... in Hollywood.
----------
STREAMING-ANIMATION - From Variety: Netflix orders "Agent King," an adult animated action-comedy series that depicts Elvis Presley as a secret agent or super spy.
----------
MOVIES - From BleedingCool: Neill Blomkamp says he is off MGM's "Robocop Returns."
-----------
DISNEY/BOX OFFICE - From Deadline: With "Toy Story 4" crossing the one-billion dollar mark in global box office, Walt Disney Pictures becomes the first movie studio to have five pictures cross the billion dollar mark in global box office in a single year. Two late year releases, "Frozen 2" and "Star Wars: The Rise of Skywalker" could make it seven.
---------
MOVIES - From Deadline: Kevin Hart will star in and produce the superhero comedy, "Night Wolf," for STXfilms.
----------
MOVIES - From SlashFilm: Alexandre Aja ("Crawl") leads a talented group of filmmakers in an attempt to make an interactive haunted house movie.
----------
MOVIES - From Variety: Henry Golding ("Crazy Rich Asians") is in talks to star in the "G.I. Joe" spinoff, "Snake Eyes."
----------
DISNEY - From People: Disney offers a sneak peek at its live-action remake of its classic animated film "Lady and the Tramp" with a photo of its canine stars.
----------
TELEVISION - From Blackfilm: BET and Tyler Perry add new cast members, including DeVale Ellis and Kevin Walton, to their upcoming one-hour drama, "Sistas," which is due this fall.
----------
MOVIES - From Blackfilm: Vanessa Bell Calloway will reprise her role of "Imani Izzi" in the Coming to America sequel, which is due to hit theaters December 18, 2020. Comedian Luenell is also joining the cast.
----------
LGBTQ - From Variety: IMDb is changing its policy on publishing birth names in response to transgender customers and other entertainment figures.
----------
MEDIA - From Deadline: After 13 years apart (that long!), CBS and Viacom are once again one. The new entity will be called ViacomCBS Inc. Regulatory approval of the merger is expected to come in the next several months.
-----------
STREAMING/BDS - From Truthout: In the op-ed, "I Said No to a Netflix Series Audition Because I Support Palestinian Rights," actor David Clennon explains why he declined to participate in Netflix's upcoming series, "Sycamore," a co-production with Israel.
-----------
BOX OFFICE - From BoxOfficeMojo: The winner of the 8/9 to 8/11/19 weekend box office is "Fast & Furious Presents: Hobbs & Shaw" with an estimated take of 25.4 million dollars.
From Patreon: My review of "Fast & Furious Presents: Hobbs & Shaw."
----------
MOVIES - From Deadline: New Line Cinema is the winner of an intense bidding war for Olivia Wilde's directorial effort which exists as a spec script, entitled "Don't Worry Darling."
----------
AWARDS - From Deadline: 2019 Teen Choice Awards were announced. "Avengers: Endgame" and "Riverdale" take the top prizes.
----------
STREAMING - From IndieWire: In the end, things worked out for "Fast Color," a film about African-American female superheroes. Amazon will produce a TV series based on the film.
----------
MOVIES - From Variety: Universal Pictures has cancelled its release of the now-controversial film, "The Hunt." Produced in part by Jason Blum, the film was due September 27th.
From Variety: President Trump has been calling out Hollywood "racism," with "The Hunt" apparently being one of the "racist films" he targeted.
----------
MOVIES - From IndieWire: Quentin Tarantino says that if he comes up with a good idea, his next (and supposedly final) film would be a horror movie.
----------
ANIMATION - From IndieWire: The Walt Disney Company's "Disney discipline" hits Fox's former animation studio, Blue Sky Studios ("Ice Age" and "Rio" franchises).
----------
MOVIES - From THR: Josh Appelbaum and Andre Nemec, who wrote the recent "Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles" movies and "Mission: Impossible: Ghost Protocol," are writing a script for a "G.I. Joe" spinoff movie, which will reportedly be an ensemble piece. A "Snake Eyes" movie is due October 2020.
OBITS:
From THR: The Canadian born animator and filmmaker, Richard Williams, has died at the age of 86, Friday, August 16, 2019. Williams was best known for directing the animation on the live-action/animation hybrid, "Who Framed Roger Rabbit" (1988). He won an Oscar for his animated short film "A Christmas Carol" (1971), and in 1989, he shared a visual effects Oscar for "Who Framed Roger Rabbit," as well as receiving a "special achievement" Oscar for the film.
--------------------------------
From Deadline: The actor, Peter Fonda, has died at the age of 79, Friday, August 16, 2019. Fonda's best known film is the groundbreaking, counter-culture movie, "Easy Rider" (1969). Fonda also produced "Easy Rider," and shared an Oscar nomination for "Best Original Screenplay" with Terry Southern and the film's director, Dennis Hopper, for writing the film. Fonda was the son of legendary Golden Age actor, Henry Fonda, and was the young brother of actress Jane Fonda. Fonda's daughter, Bridget, is also an actor.
From Deadline: Jane Fonda issues a statement on the passing of her brother, Peter Fonda.
From Deadline: Hollywood reacts to the passing of actor Peter Fonda.
-------------------------------
From CNN: Actor and former firefighter, Dango Nguyen, has died at the age of 48, Saturday, August 10, 2019. Nguyen, who acted under the name "Dango Nu Yen," appeared in the third season of "The Walking Dead."
From YahooSports: NFL coach Darryl Drake has died at the age of 62, Sunday, August 11, 2019. Drake was currently the Pittsburgh Steelers' wide receivers coach. Drake has a brief NFL and CFL career after playing college football for Western Kentucky University (1975-1978). After a 20-year career coaching in the college ranks, in 2004, he began his NFL coaching career. He was a coach on the Chicago Bears 2006 team that won the NFC Championship and lost in the Super Bowl to the Indianapolis Colts.
From NFL: Pittsburgh Steelers Head Coach Mike Tomlin issues a statement on Darryl Drake's passing.
From NFL: Pittsburgh Steelers Team President Art Rooney II issues a state on Darryl Drake's passing.
-----------------------------------------
Friday, August 16, 2019
David Rubin is the New President of AMPAS
DAVID RUBIN ELECTED ACADEMY PRESIDENT
David Rubin was elected president of the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences Tuesday night, August 6, 2019, by the organization’s Board of Governors.
Also elected to officer positions by the Board:
• Lois Burwell, First Vice President (chair, Awards and Events Committee)
• Sid Ganis, Vice President (chair, Museum Committee)
• Larry Karaszewski, Vice President (chair, Preservation and History Committee)
• Nancy Utley, Vice President (chair, Education and Outreach Committee)
• Mark Johnson, Treasurer (chair, Finance Committee)
• Bonnie Arnold, Secretary (chair, Membership and Governance Committee)
Rubin is beginning his first term as president and his seventh year as a governor representing the Casting Directors Branch. Burwell, Ganis, Karaszewski and Utley were re-elected to their posts. This will be the first officer stint for Arnold and Johnson.
Rubin is the first casting director to hold the position of Academy President. With more than 100 film and television credits, he has cast such features as “The English Patient,” “Men in Black,” “Hairspray,” “Lars and the Real Girl,” “The Talented Mr. Ripley,” “Four Weddings and a Funeral,” “Get Shorty,” “My Best Friend’s Wedding,” “William Shakespeare’s Romeo + Juliet” and “Fried Green Tomatoes.”
Academy board members may serve up to three consecutive three-year terms, while officers serve one-year terms, with a maximum of four consecutive years in any one office.
-----------------------------
David Rubin was elected president of the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences Tuesday night, August 6, 2019, by the organization’s Board of Governors.
Also elected to officer positions by the Board:
• Lois Burwell, First Vice President (chair, Awards and Events Committee)
• Sid Ganis, Vice President (chair, Museum Committee)
• Larry Karaszewski, Vice President (chair, Preservation and History Committee)
• Nancy Utley, Vice President (chair, Education and Outreach Committee)
• Mark Johnson, Treasurer (chair, Finance Committee)
• Bonnie Arnold, Secretary (chair, Membership and Governance Committee)
Rubin is beginning his first term as president and his seventh year as a governor representing the Casting Directors Branch. Burwell, Ganis, Karaszewski and Utley were re-elected to their posts. This will be the first officer stint for Arnold and Johnson.
Rubin is the first casting director to hold the position of Academy President. With more than 100 film and television credits, he has cast such features as “The English Patient,” “Men in Black,” “Hairspray,” “Lars and the Real Girl,” “The Talented Mr. Ripley,” “Four Weddings and a Funeral,” “Get Shorty,” “My Best Friend’s Wedding,” “William Shakespeare’s Romeo + Juliet” and “Fried Green Tomatoes.”
Academy board members may serve up to three consecutive three-year terms, while officers serve one-year terms, with a maximum of four consecutive years in any one office.
-----------------------------
"Toy Story 4" Plays Past One Billion Dollars
‘Toy Story 4’ Crosses $1 Billion at Global Box Office
Yesterday, Pixar’s Toy Story 4 became The Walt Disney Studios’ fifth billion dollar release for 2019. Through August 14, the film has earned an estimated $1.0017 billion worldwide.
Toy Story 4—which is now the No. 8 biggest animated movie of all time—joins Incredibles 2, Finding Dory and Toy Story 3 to become the fourth Pixar film and second Toy Story film to reach the $1 billion milestone.
With an A CinemaScore and an exceptional 97% Fresh critics score on RottenTomatoes, Toy Story 4 made its domestic debut June 20 with $120.9 million, one of the biggest openings ever for an animated film. It has earned $421.8 million domestically to date to stand as the No. 5 animated film ever.
Internationally, Toy Story 4 has earned $579.9 million with debuts still to come in Germany and across Scandinavia. It’s the No. 2 animated release of all time in the UK with $75 million. In Japan, Toy Story 4 continues to perform very strongly with a current cumulative gross of $77 million. In Mexico, Toy Story 4 is the biggest industry film in admissions with a cumulative gross of $72 million.
-----------------------------------
Yesterday, Pixar’s Toy Story 4 became The Walt Disney Studios’ fifth billion dollar release for 2019. Through August 14, the film has earned an estimated $1.0017 billion worldwide.
Toy Story 4—which is now the No. 8 biggest animated movie of all time—joins Incredibles 2, Finding Dory and Toy Story 3 to become the fourth Pixar film and second Toy Story film to reach the $1 billion milestone.
With an A CinemaScore and an exceptional 97% Fresh critics score on RottenTomatoes, Toy Story 4 made its domestic debut June 20 with $120.9 million, one of the biggest openings ever for an animated film. It has earned $421.8 million domestically to date to stand as the No. 5 animated film ever.
Internationally, Toy Story 4 has earned $579.9 million with debuts still to come in Germany and across Scandinavia. It’s the No. 2 animated release of all time in the UK with $75 million. In Japan, Toy Story 4 continues to perform very strongly with a current cumulative gross of $77 million. In Mexico, Toy Story 4 is the biggest industry film in admissions with a cumulative gross of $72 million.
-----------------------------------
Thursday, August 15, 2019
Keegan-Michael Key to Host NatGeo's "Brain Games"
National Geographic Announces Keegan-Michael Key as Host of Brain Games
Hit Series Brain Games Gets Hollywood Reboot as World-Famous Mentalist Lior Surchard Joins Key to Challenge Celebrities With Interactive Mind Games
Produced by Dan Cutforth and Jane Lipsitz’s Alfred Street Industries and Magical Elves, the New Iteration of Brain Games Premieres Dec. 1, 2019, on National Geographic
NEW YORK & WASHINGTON--(BUSINESS WIRE)--National Geographic announced that it has tapped Keegan-Michael Key (“Friends From College,” “Toy Story 4,” “Lion King”) as host of its rebooted hit series, "Brain Games." The eight-episode season, produced by Dan Cutforth and Jane Lipsitz’s Alfred Street Industries and Magical Elves, adds a Hollywood twist to its classic mind-bending format by challenging some of the world’s biggest celebrities to realize their special brain power through fun and highly entertaining interactive games, illusions and social experiments.
“‘Brain Games’ is such an important part of National Geographic’s screen heritage. It is an honor to have the opportunity to produce the show and to be working with a giant talent like Keegan-Michael Key whose humor, magnetism and intellectual curiosity will elevate the series in an exciting new way.”
The first five celebrities confirmed are: Kristin Bell (“The Good Place”), Dax Shepherd (“Bless This Mess”), Drew Brees (QB, New Orleans Saints), Rebel Wilson (“The Hustle”), and Anthony Anderson (“Blackish”).
Brain Games premieres Dec. 1, 2019, on National Geographic and will air globally in 172 countries and 43 languages. For more information visit our press site www.natgeotvpressroom.com, or follow us on Twitter using @NatGeoPR.
In Brain Games, host Key will investigate mind-bending questions with the help of Hollywood’s biggest stars. Joining Key on stage in front of the live studio audience, world-famous mentalist Lior Surchard will assist with brain games and challenges for the celebrity guests. Meanwhile, field correspondent and science communicator Cara Santa Maria will take the cerebral challenges on the road and put everyday people across America to the test. With insight from some of the world’s leading neuroscientists, engineers and brain experts, we’ll explore the “why” behind the “wow” of questions like the following: Are women better communicators? How do our brains control what we love to eat? Can brain science help us with our dating lives? What is the magic ingredient to gaining, having and keeping power? And much more!
“I’ve always loved science, and when National Geographic called, I jumped at the chance to be part of this really amazing series,” said Key. “I’m going to be bringing some friends along, and together we are going to explore some really fascinating aspects of the human brain. I can’t wait to get started!”
“As we looked to revive this much-adored series with a colorful superstar twist, it’s a no-brainer to introduce Keegan-Michael Key as host of Brain Games,” said Courteney Monroe, president, National Geographic Global Networks. “He uniquely possesses the combination of charm, quick wit, intelligence and humor that’s ideal for in-studio scenarios, but beyond that, he’s a fan of the series and has a sheer passion for the science behind how our brains tick.”
Said Cutforth and Lipsitz, “‘Brain Games’ is such an important part of National Geographic’s screen heritage. It is an honor to have the opportunity to produce the show and to be working with a giant talent like Keegan-Michael Key whose humor, magnetism and intellectual curiosity will elevate the series in an exciting new way.”
“A show like Brain Games belongs on stage in front of a live audience, where celebrity guests, audience members, and viewers can experience science in a fun and interactive way. With Keegan-Michael Key as our host, this high-energy, reimagined version of the original Brain Games will definitely appeal to both the left and right sides of viewers’ brains,” said Toby Gorman, Executive Producer and Interim CEO of Magical Elves.
While some episode games — including “Battle of the Sexes,” “Kids vs. Grownups,” “Laws of Attraction” and “Movie Magic” — are tailored to the headlining celebrities, others — including “Laws of Attraction,” “Deception” and “Power of Persuasion” — draw from the most successful themes across the previous five seasons. The new season includes a mixture of in-studio and in-the-field game components, physical and mental games, and the introduction of “The Gauntlet,” a fifth-act combination of previous episode games to pit celebrity against celebrity.
About Keegan-Michael Key
Emmy- and Peabody Award-winning actor, writer and creator Keegan-Michael Key is one of Hollywood’s most in-demand forces. With his extraordinarily diverse skill set and wide-ranging talent in both comedy and drama, Key redefines what it means to be a chameleon and multi-hyphenate in the worlds of film, television and theater. He will next appear in two of 2019’s most highly anticipated films, Disney/Pixar’s “Toy Story 4” and Disney’s live action/CGI remake of “The Lion King.” In addition, he recently wrapped production in Vancouver on Paramount’s “Playing With Fire,” starring alongside John Cena, Judy Greer and John Leguizamo. He will soon star opposite Eddie Murphy in Netflix’s “My Name is Dolemite!”.
Key is represented by UTA and attorney Dave Feldman.
Brain Games is produced for National Geographic by Alfred Street Industries and Magical Elves. Dan Cutforth and Jane Lipsitz are executive producers for Alfred Street Industries. For Magical Elves, executive producers are Toby Gorman, Casey Kriley, James Rowley and Lauren Williams. Elisa Key is also an executive producer. For National Geographic, Matt Renner is executive producer and vice president, original programming and production; and Geoff Daniels is executive vice president of global unscripted entertainment.
About Magical Elves:
Magical Elves is the veteran production company behind Emmy award-winning hits “Top Chef” (Bravo) and “Last Chance Kitchen” (Bravo), Peabody Award-winning “Project Runway” (Bravo), IDA Award winner “Time of Death” (Showtime) and the recent streaming successes “Nailed It!” (Netflix) and “Sugar Rush” (Netflix). Other credits include “Project Greenlight” (HBO), “Cleveland Hustles” (CNBC), “There Goes the Motherhood” (Bravo), “Braxton Family Values” (WETV), “Tamar & Vince” (WETV), “Shine On” (DirectTV), “All in With Cam Newton” (Nickelodeon), “Last Comic Standing” (NBC), “Cold Justice” (Oxygen), “Top Chef Junior” (Universal Kids) and the 2017 music documentary “Tim & Faith: Soul2Soul” (Showtime). Magical Elves is a part of The Tinopolis Group’s portfolio of production companies.
About National Geographic Partners LLC
National Geographic Partners LLC (NGP), a joint venture between the National Geographic Society and Disney, is committed to bringing the world premium science, adventure and exploration content across an unrivaled portfolio of media assets. NGP combines the global National Geographic television channels (National Geographic Channel, Nat Geo WILD, Nat Geo MUNDO, Nat Geo PEOPLE) with National Geographic’s media and consumer-oriented assets, including National Geographic magazines; National Geographic studios; related digital and social media platforms; books; maps; children’s media; and ancillary activities that include travel, global experiences and events, archival sales, licensing and e-commerce businesses. Furthering knowledge and understanding of our world has been the core purpose of National Geographic for 131 years, and now we are committed to going deeper, pushing boundaries, going further for our consumers … and reaching millions of people around the world in 172 countries and 43 languages every month as we do it. NGP returns 27 percent of our proceeds to the nonprofit National Geographic Society to fund work in the areas of science, exploration, conservation and education. For more information, visit natgeotv.com or nationalgeographic.com, or find us on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, YouTube, LinkedIn and Pinterest.
-------------------------------
Hit Series Brain Games Gets Hollywood Reboot as World-Famous Mentalist Lior Surchard Joins Key to Challenge Celebrities With Interactive Mind Games
Produced by Dan Cutforth and Jane Lipsitz’s Alfred Street Industries and Magical Elves, the New Iteration of Brain Games Premieres Dec. 1, 2019, on National Geographic
NEW YORK & WASHINGTON--(BUSINESS WIRE)--National Geographic announced that it has tapped Keegan-Michael Key (“Friends From College,” “Toy Story 4,” “Lion King”) as host of its rebooted hit series, "Brain Games." The eight-episode season, produced by Dan Cutforth and Jane Lipsitz’s Alfred Street Industries and Magical Elves, adds a Hollywood twist to its classic mind-bending format by challenging some of the world’s biggest celebrities to realize their special brain power through fun and highly entertaining interactive games, illusions and social experiments.
“‘Brain Games’ is such an important part of National Geographic’s screen heritage. It is an honor to have the opportunity to produce the show and to be working with a giant talent like Keegan-Michael Key whose humor, magnetism and intellectual curiosity will elevate the series in an exciting new way.”
The first five celebrities confirmed are: Kristin Bell (“The Good Place”), Dax Shepherd (“Bless This Mess”), Drew Brees (QB, New Orleans Saints), Rebel Wilson (“The Hustle”), and Anthony Anderson (“Blackish”).
Brain Games premieres Dec. 1, 2019, on National Geographic and will air globally in 172 countries and 43 languages. For more information visit our press site www.natgeotvpressroom.com, or follow us on Twitter using @NatGeoPR.
In Brain Games, host Key will investigate mind-bending questions with the help of Hollywood’s biggest stars. Joining Key on stage in front of the live studio audience, world-famous mentalist Lior Surchard will assist with brain games and challenges for the celebrity guests. Meanwhile, field correspondent and science communicator Cara Santa Maria will take the cerebral challenges on the road and put everyday people across America to the test. With insight from some of the world’s leading neuroscientists, engineers and brain experts, we’ll explore the “why” behind the “wow” of questions like the following: Are women better communicators? How do our brains control what we love to eat? Can brain science help us with our dating lives? What is the magic ingredient to gaining, having and keeping power? And much more!
“I’ve always loved science, and when National Geographic called, I jumped at the chance to be part of this really amazing series,” said Key. “I’m going to be bringing some friends along, and together we are going to explore some really fascinating aspects of the human brain. I can’t wait to get started!”
“As we looked to revive this much-adored series with a colorful superstar twist, it’s a no-brainer to introduce Keegan-Michael Key as host of Brain Games,” said Courteney Monroe, president, National Geographic Global Networks. “He uniquely possesses the combination of charm, quick wit, intelligence and humor that’s ideal for in-studio scenarios, but beyond that, he’s a fan of the series and has a sheer passion for the science behind how our brains tick.”
Said Cutforth and Lipsitz, “‘Brain Games’ is such an important part of National Geographic’s screen heritage. It is an honor to have the opportunity to produce the show and to be working with a giant talent like Keegan-Michael Key whose humor, magnetism and intellectual curiosity will elevate the series in an exciting new way.”
“A show like Brain Games belongs on stage in front of a live audience, where celebrity guests, audience members, and viewers can experience science in a fun and interactive way. With Keegan-Michael Key as our host, this high-energy, reimagined version of the original Brain Games will definitely appeal to both the left and right sides of viewers’ brains,” said Toby Gorman, Executive Producer and Interim CEO of Magical Elves.
While some episode games — including “Battle of the Sexes,” “Kids vs. Grownups,” “Laws of Attraction” and “Movie Magic” — are tailored to the headlining celebrities, others — including “Laws of Attraction,” “Deception” and “Power of Persuasion” — draw from the most successful themes across the previous five seasons. The new season includes a mixture of in-studio and in-the-field game components, physical and mental games, and the introduction of “The Gauntlet,” a fifth-act combination of previous episode games to pit celebrity against celebrity.
About Keegan-Michael Key
Emmy- and Peabody Award-winning actor, writer and creator Keegan-Michael Key is one of Hollywood’s most in-demand forces. With his extraordinarily diverse skill set and wide-ranging talent in both comedy and drama, Key redefines what it means to be a chameleon and multi-hyphenate in the worlds of film, television and theater. He will next appear in two of 2019’s most highly anticipated films, Disney/Pixar’s “Toy Story 4” and Disney’s live action/CGI remake of “The Lion King.” In addition, he recently wrapped production in Vancouver on Paramount’s “Playing With Fire,” starring alongside John Cena, Judy Greer and John Leguizamo. He will soon star opposite Eddie Murphy in Netflix’s “My Name is Dolemite!”.
Key is represented by UTA and attorney Dave Feldman.
Brain Games is produced for National Geographic by Alfred Street Industries and Magical Elves. Dan Cutforth and Jane Lipsitz are executive producers for Alfred Street Industries. For Magical Elves, executive producers are Toby Gorman, Casey Kriley, James Rowley and Lauren Williams. Elisa Key is also an executive producer. For National Geographic, Matt Renner is executive producer and vice president, original programming and production; and Geoff Daniels is executive vice president of global unscripted entertainment.
About Magical Elves:
Magical Elves is the veteran production company behind Emmy award-winning hits “Top Chef” (Bravo) and “Last Chance Kitchen” (Bravo), Peabody Award-winning “Project Runway” (Bravo), IDA Award winner “Time of Death” (Showtime) and the recent streaming successes “Nailed It!” (Netflix) and “Sugar Rush” (Netflix). Other credits include “Project Greenlight” (HBO), “Cleveland Hustles” (CNBC), “There Goes the Motherhood” (Bravo), “Braxton Family Values” (WETV), “Tamar & Vince” (WETV), “Shine On” (DirectTV), “All in With Cam Newton” (Nickelodeon), “Last Comic Standing” (NBC), “Cold Justice” (Oxygen), “Top Chef Junior” (Universal Kids) and the 2017 music documentary “Tim & Faith: Soul2Soul” (Showtime). Magical Elves is a part of The Tinopolis Group’s portfolio of production companies.
About National Geographic Partners LLC
National Geographic Partners LLC (NGP), a joint venture between the National Geographic Society and Disney, is committed to bringing the world premium science, adventure and exploration content across an unrivaled portfolio of media assets. NGP combines the global National Geographic television channels (National Geographic Channel, Nat Geo WILD, Nat Geo MUNDO, Nat Geo PEOPLE) with National Geographic’s media and consumer-oriented assets, including National Geographic magazines; National Geographic studios; related digital and social media platforms; books; maps; children’s media; and ancillary activities that include travel, global experiences and events, archival sales, licensing and e-commerce businesses. Furthering knowledge and understanding of our world has been the core purpose of National Geographic for 131 years, and now we are committed to going deeper, pushing boundaries, going further for our consumers … and reaching millions of people around the world in 172 countries and 43 languages every month as we do it. NGP returns 27 percent of our proceeds to the nonprofit National Geographic Society to fund work in the areas of science, exploration, conservation and education. For more information, visit natgeotv.com or nationalgeographic.com, or find us on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, YouTube, LinkedIn and Pinterest.
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Tuesday, August 13, 2019
"National Geographic" to Appear at Disney's D23 Expo 2019
Last Minute Addition to D23 Expo!
National Geographic Offers D23 Expo Fans the Exclusive First Look at Scripted Series The Right Stuff
Adaptation of Tom Wolfe’s Bestseller Recounts Pioneering Chapter of Historic U.S. Space Race
Cast Attending Include:
Jake McDorman as “Alan Shepard”
Colin O’Donoghue as “Lt. Gordon Cooper”
Aaron Staton as “Wally Schirra”
Michael Trotter as “Gus Grissom”
Micah Stock as “Deke Slayton”
James Lafferty as “Scott Carpenter”
With Special Guest Moderator, Retired NASA Astronaut Nicole Stott
Throughout the Weekend, National Geographic’s Beneath the Blue: An Interactive Underwater Experience Will Take Attendees on a 360º Immersive Journey Through the Oceans
WASHINGTON--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Blast off at Disney’s D23 Expo as National Geographic presents an exclusive sneak peek of scripted series, "The Right Stuff," based on Tom Wolfe’s bestselling novel that spotlighted the historical Mercury 7 astronauts. Join Jake McDorman (“What We Do in the Shadows,” “Lady Bird”), Colin O’Donoghue (“Once Upon a Time,” “Carrie Pilby,” “The Rite”), Aaron Staton (“Narcos: Mexico,” “Castle Rock”), Michael Trotter (“Underground,” “The Evening Hour”), Micah Stock (“Brittany Runs a Marathon,” “Escape at Dannemora”) and James Lafferty (“The Haunting of Hill House,” “Small Town Crime”) as they give fans the first look at the early days of production on the series.
The Right Stuff fan experiences will launch Saturday, Aug. 24, 2019, with a cast autograph signing and meet-and-greet at Talent Central from 12:45 to 1:45 p.m. Then, over at Center Stage from 2:30 to 3 p.m., the cast will sit down with special guest moderator, retired NASA astronaut Nicole Stott, for an out-of-this-world Q&A and first look at the series. Immediately following, from 3 to 3:50 p.m. at the Walt Disney Television booth, fans will get another chance to meet and take pictures with the cast and Stott. Finally, at 4:30 p.m., the cast will serve as Grand Marshalls for the D23 Street Party, leading the festive indoor parade across the show room floor inside the convention center.
The first season of The Right Stuff, which uses Wolfe’s book as its starting point, starts at the height of the Cold War. To combat a national sentiment of fear and decline, the U.S. government conceives of NASA’s Project Mercury, igniting a space race with the Soviets and making instant celebrities of a handful of the military’s adrenaline-fueled test pilots. These individuals, who come to be known as the Mercury Seven, are forged into heroes long before they have achieved a single heroic act. At the heart of a historic drama populated by deeply human characters, two archrivals — Maj. John Glenn and Alan Shepard — jockey to be the first man in space. Production began last month in Cocoa Beach, Florida, and will premiere globally on National Geographic in 2020.
As previously announced, National Geographic will be joining Disney’s D23 Expo show floor for the first time, delivering unique experiences that inspire curiosity and exploration for fans of all ages. From free solo climbing to the top of El Capitan to exploring the “why” behind the “wow” behind our gray matter, National Geographic will immerse fans in adventure, ignite their curiosities about the world and surprise them with stories unlike any they’ve seen before, harnessing the spirit of the iconic yellow border. Details for talent appearances and special signings will be made available on the D23 Expo app, which will also include the following:
In addition, throughout the weekend on the show floor, National Geographic is also creating a unique fan experience — Beneath the Blue: An Interactive Underwater Journey. Our breathtaking underwater world will lead attendees on a journey through the oceans. They’ll be transported below the waves in a 360º immersive experience with unique animal sculptures crafted from reclaimed ocean plastics.
Single-day tickets for Sunday of D23 Expo 2019 are available for $89 for one-day adult admission and $69 for children ages 3-9. Gold Members of D23: The Official Disney Fan Club can purchase tickets for $79 for a one-day adult admission and $59 for children ages 3-9. Single-day Friday and Saturday tickets, as well as three-day passes, are sold out. For more information on tickets and D23 Expo 2019, visit D23Expo.com.
National Geographic Partners LLC
National Geographic Partners LLC (NGP), a joint venture between Disney and the National Geographic Society, is committed to bringing the world premium science, adventure and exploration content across an unrivaled portfolio of media assets. NGP combines the global National Geographic television channels (National Geographic Channel, Nat Geo WILD, Nat Geo MUNDO, Nat Geo PEOPLE) with National Geographic’s media and consumer-oriented assets, including National Geographic magazines; National Geographic studios; related digital and social media platforms; books; maps; children’s media; and ancillary activities that include travel, global experiences and events, archival sales, licensing and e-commerce businesses. Furthering knowledge and understanding of our world has been the core purpose of National Geographic for 131 years, and now we are committed to going deeper, pushing boundaries, going further for our consumers … and reaching millions of people around the world in 172 countries and 43 languages every month as we do it. NGP returns 27 percent of our proceeds to the nonprofit National Geographic Society to fund work in the areas of science, exploration, conservation and education. For more information visit natgeotv.com or nationalgeographic.com, or find us on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, YouTube, LinkedIn and Pinterest.
About D23 Expo 2019
D23 Expo — The Ultimate Disney Fan Event — brings together all the worlds of Disney under one roof for three packed days of presentations, pavilions, experiences, concerts, sneak peeks, shopping and more. The event provides fans with unprecedented access to Disney films, television, games, theme parks and celebrities. For the latest D23 Expo 2019 news, visit D23expo.com. Presentations, talent and schedule subject to change. To join the D23 Expo conversation, be sure to follow DisneyD23 on Twitter, Facebook, Instagram and YouTube, and use the hashtag #D23Expo.
About D23
The name “D23” pays homage to the exciting journey that began in 1923 when Walt Disney opened his first studio in Hollywood. D23 is the first official club for fans in Disney’s 90-plus-year history. It gives its members a greater connection to the entire world of Disney by placing them in the middle of the magic through its quarterly publication, Disney twenty-three; a rich website at D23.com with members-only content; member-exclusive discounts; and special events for D23 Members throughout the year.
Fans can join D23 at Gold Membership ($99.99), Gold Family Membership ($129.99), and General Membership (complimentary) levels at D23.com. To keep up with all the latest D23 news and events, follow DisneyD23 on Twitter, Facebook, Instagram, and YouTube.
----------------------------------
National Geographic Offers D23 Expo Fans the Exclusive First Look at Scripted Series The Right Stuff
Adaptation of Tom Wolfe’s Bestseller Recounts Pioneering Chapter of Historic U.S. Space Race
Cast Attending Include:
Jake McDorman as “Alan Shepard”
Colin O’Donoghue as “Lt. Gordon Cooper”
Aaron Staton as “Wally Schirra”
Michael Trotter as “Gus Grissom”
Micah Stock as “Deke Slayton”
James Lafferty as “Scott Carpenter”
With Special Guest Moderator, Retired NASA Astronaut Nicole Stott
Throughout the Weekend, National Geographic’s Beneath the Blue: An Interactive Underwater Experience Will Take Attendees on a 360º Immersive Journey Through the Oceans
WASHINGTON--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Blast off at Disney’s D23 Expo as National Geographic presents an exclusive sneak peek of scripted series, "The Right Stuff," based on Tom Wolfe’s bestselling novel that spotlighted the historical Mercury 7 astronauts. Join Jake McDorman (“What We Do in the Shadows,” “Lady Bird”), Colin O’Donoghue (“Once Upon a Time,” “Carrie Pilby,” “The Rite”), Aaron Staton (“Narcos: Mexico,” “Castle Rock”), Michael Trotter (“Underground,” “The Evening Hour”), Micah Stock (“Brittany Runs a Marathon,” “Escape at Dannemora”) and James Lafferty (“The Haunting of Hill House,” “Small Town Crime”) as they give fans the first look at the early days of production on the series.
The Right Stuff fan experiences will launch Saturday, Aug. 24, 2019, with a cast autograph signing and meet-and-greet at Talent Central from 12:45 to 1:45 p.m. Then, over at Center Stage from 2:30 to 3 p.m., the cast will sit down with special guest moderator, retired NASA astronaut Nicole Stott, for an out-of-this-world Q&A and first look at the series. Immediately following, from 3 to 3:50 p.m. at the Walt Disney Television booth, fans will get another chance to meet and take pictures with the cast and Stott. Finally, at 4:30 p.m., the cast will serve as Grand Marshalls for the D23 Street Party, leading the festive indoor parade across the show room floor inside the convention center.
The first season of The Right Stuff, which uses Wolfe’s book as its starting point, starts at the height of the Cold War. To combat a national sentiment of fear and decline, the U.S. government conceives of NASA’s Project Mercury, igniting a space race with the Soviets and making instant celebrities of a handful of the military’s adrenaline-fueled test pilots. These individuals, who come to be known as the Mercury Seven, are forged into heroes long before they have achieved a single heroic act. At the heart of a historic drama populated by deeply human characters, two archrivals — Maj. John Glenn and Alan Shepard — jockey to be the first man in space. Production began last month in Cocoa Beach, Florida, and will premiere globally on National Geographic in 2020.
As previously announced, National Geographic will be joining Disney’s D23 Expo show floor for the first time, delivering unique experiences that inspire curiosity and exploration for fans of all ages. From free solo climbing to the top of El Capitan to exploring the “why” behind the “wow” behind our gray matter, National Geographic will immerse fans in adventure, ignite their curiosities about the world and surprise them with stories unlike any they’ve seen before, harnessing the spirit of the iconic yellow border. Details for talent appearances and special signings will be made available on the D23 Expo app, which will also include the following:
- Friday, Aug. 23, from 1 to 2 p.m.: Book signing with legendary rock climber Alex Honnold, featured in the Academy Award-winning film, Free Solo
- Saturday, Aug. 24, from 10 to 11 a.m.: WOMEN OF IMPACT: Meet the Nat Geo Explorers Changing the World on Stage 28, featuring women on the front lines of exploration, conservation and storytelling
- Saturday, Aug. 24, from 4 to 5 p.m.: Puppies and meet-and-greet with Dr. Jan Pol from Nat Geo WILD’s No. 1 series, The Incredible Dr. Pol
- Sunday, Aug. 25, from 11 a.m. to noon: Meet Sue Aikens from multiple Emmy award-winning series, Life Below Zero
- Sunday, Aug. 25, from 12:30 to 1:30 p.m.: Power Up Your Brain With Keegan-Michael Key at the D23 Expo Arena as Key (“The Lion King,” “Toy Story 4”) ignites your brain power and plays some fun, mind-bending, interactive challenges to show you the “why” behind the “wow”
- Sunday, Aug. 25, from 2 to 3 p.m.: After jumpstarting your brain, meet & greet with Keegan- Michael Key, host of Brain Games
In addition, throughout the weekend on the show floor, National Geographic is also creating a unique fan experience — Beneath the Blue: An Interactive Underwater Journey. Our breathtaking underwater world will lead attendees on a journey through the oceans. They’ll be transported below the waves in a 360º immersive experience with unique animal sculptures crafted from reclaimed ocean plastics.
Single-day tickets for Sunday of D23 Expo 2019 are available for $89 for one-day adult admission and $69 for children ages 3-9. Gold Members of D23: The Official Disney Fan Club can purchase tickets for $79 for a one-day adult admission and $59 for children ages 3-9. Single-day Friday and Saturday tickets, as well as three-day passes, are sold out. For more information on tickets and D23 Expo 2019, visit D23Expo.com.
National Geographic Partners LLC
National Geographic Partners LLC (NGP), a joint venture between Disney and the National Geographic Society, is committed to bringing the world premium science, adventure and exploration content across an unrivaled portfolio of media assets. NGP combines the global National Geographic television channels (National Geographic Channel, Nat Geo WILD, Nat Geo MUNDO, Nat Geo PEOPLE) with National Geographic’s media and consumer-oriented assets, including National Geographic magazines; National Geographic studios; related digital and social media platforms; books; maps; children’s media; and ancillary activities that include travel, global experiences and events, archival sales, licensing and e-commerce businesses. Furthering knowledge and understanding of our world has been the core purpose of National Geographic for 131 years, and now we are committed to going deeper, pushing boundaries, going further for our consumers … and reaching millions of people around the world in 172 countries and 43 languages every month as we do it. NGP returns 27 percent of our proceeds to the nonprofit National Geographic Society to fund work in the areas of science, exploration, conservation and education. For more information visit natgeotv.com or nationalgeographic.com, or find us on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, YouTube, LinkedIn and Pinterest.
About D23 Expo 2019
D23 Expo — The Ultimate Disney Fan Event — brings together all the worlds of Disney under one roof for three packed days of presentations, pavilions, experiences, concerts, sneak peeks, shopping and more. The event provides fans with unprecedented access to Disney films, television, games, theme parks and celebrities. For the latest D23 Expo 2019 news, visit D23expo.com. Presentations, talent and schedule subject to change. To join the D23 Expo conversation, be sure to follow DisneyD23 on Twitter, Facebook, Instagram and YouTube, and use the hashtag #D23Expo.
About D23
The name “D23” pays homage to the exciting journey that began in 1923 when Walt Disney opened his first studio in Hollywood. D23 is the first official club for fans in Disney’s 90-plus-year history. It gives its members a greater connection to the entire world of Disney by placing them in the middle of the magic through its quarterly publication, Disney twenty-three; a rich website at D23.com with members-only content; member-exclusive discounts; and special events for D23 Members throughout the year.
Fans can join D23 at Gold Membership ($99.99), Gold Family Membership ($129.99), and General Membership (complimentary) levels at D23.com. To keep up with all the latest D23 news and events, follow DisneyD23 on Twitter, Facebook, Instagram, and YouTube.
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Monday, August 12, 2019
BOOM! Studios from Diamond Distributors for August 14, 2019
BOOM! STUDIOS
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APR191246 FENCE TP VOL 03 $14.99
JUN191297 GHOSTED IN LA #2 CVR A MAIN KEENAN $3.99
JUN191298 GHOSTED IN LA #2 CVR B GRACE VAR $3.99
JUN191284 GO GO POWER RANGERS #22 CVR A MAIN SHAVRIN $3.99
JUN191285 GO GO POWER RANGERS #22 CVR B MERCADO VAR $3.99
JUN198050 GO GO POWER RANGERS #22 CVR D FOC MAD VAR $3.99
APR191237 JIM HENSONS FRAGGLE ROCK WHERE IS IT HC $9.99
JUN191263 ONCE & FUTURE #1 (OF 6) $3.99
APR191225 SPARROWHAWK TP $19.99
APR191250 ADVENTURE TIME FIONNA CAKE ORIGINAL GN BASH BLUES $9.99
APR191246 FENCE TP VOL 03 $14.99
JUN191297 GHOSTED IN LA #2 CVR A MAIN KEENAN $3.99
JUN191298 GHOSTED IN LA #2 CVR B GRACE VAR $3.99
JUN191284 GO GO POWER RANGERS #22 CVR A MAIN SHAVRIN $3.99
JUN191285 GO GO POWER RANGERS #22 CVR B MERCADO VAR $3.99
JUN198050 GO GO POWER RANGERS #22 CVR D FOC MAD VAR $3.99
APR191237 JIM HENSONS FRAGGLE ROCK WHERE IS IT HC $9.99
JUN191263 ONCE & FUTURE #1 (OF 6) $3.99
APR191225 SPARROWHAWK TP $19.99
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