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When I first saw the beginning of the social media explosion about this, I thought it might be joke but no it’s true: Hasbro put out an updated version of Star Wars Monopoly for The Force Awakens and the characters included are Luke and Darth Vader from the OG and Finn and Kylo Ren from […]

Contrary to what the Northeastern United States' relatively mild weather would tell you, winter is here and the holidays are swiftly blowing towards us. The many stresses of the season include college finals, the encroachment of no-longer-so-distant relatives on our homes, and the strangely loaded task of gift giving. While we at The Comics Beat cannot save your grades or your pantries, we can make it a little bit easier for you to find the perfect gift for the geek in your life. It's The Comics Beat Holiday Shopping Guide 2015!

'Star Wars' could generate over $2 billion of merchandise sales in the last four months of 2015.

The concept art for a second wave of Harry Potter POP! Vinyls has just sprung up online!  The original lineup was released this past July, but some notable characters, like Dobby, Luna, Neville, and Sirius, were missing. Not for long, it appears! While there has not yet been an official statement from Funko (the makers of the figures) announcing new additions, these designs were posted today by popvinyl.net:

Though we do not yet know whether or not these images are official, if they are, ten new additions to the collection will be on the way. The above images show Harry dressed for the Triwizard Tournament, Sirius Black, Dumbledore in lilac robes, Hermione Granger and Ron Weasley (as separate figures) dressed for the Yule Ball, Draco Malfoy, Luna Lovegood, Neville Longbottom, Dobby (holding a sock!), and a Dementor.

Here are the original figures, which were released last July, and are available for purchase in stores and on Amazon:

Keep your eyes peeled for an official announcement about the new releases! Are there any other character figures you hope Funko releases in the future? Let us know in the comments!

If Lego can make a movie, so can Playmobil.

Saturday, I spent time on the show floor, visiting the sides (3-A, 3-D, 3-E) which aren’t as crowded as the middle mega booths (which I perused Thursday). The Block  

Cartoon Network reaffirms its commitment to "Steven Universe" by announcing new toy licensees.

DC Super Hero Girls has a splashy display at the entrance to the exhibit hall and today’s panel revealed more about the toys and publishing as part of the program, including a new animated short, a new theme songs “Get Your Cape On” (which was accompanied by the panelists wearing blye capes), Mattel’s action figures, […]

  Force Friday is here! A brand new holiday established to make people line up and buy toys.  If you can find one, Hasbro’s magnetic BB-8 droid is probably the most desired. My inbox tells me that you can also buy many toys at Target. An exclusive, remote controlled BB-8 droid from Hasbro that moves and sounds just […]

This past spring there was a a lot of hullabaloo over the lack of Black Widow toys from the Hasbro Avengers: Age of Ultron toy line. This was confirmed by some anonymous insider accounts and observation. In the massive crush of A:AOU merch only a handful even featured the Black Widow, one of the film’s […]

So, you might have heard there’s this new Star Wars movie scheduled for December, “Star Wars: The Force Awakens”…. You’ve probably not heard much, as Disney and director J.J. Abrams are keeping a tight lid on what gets revealed, when. Well…that’s all gonna change this week, as Star Wars schedules a massive reveal and release […]

Your eyes are not fooling you.  This figurine (doll) by Star Ace for Sideshow Collectibles must have taken some polyjuice potion, because it looks just like 11-year-old Emma Watson as Hermione Granger in Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone.

The Hermione Granger figurine is the latest addition to a collection of dolls based on characters from the Harry Potter films.  The series also includes Ron, Voldemort, Sirius Black, Mad-Eye Moody, and Harry.

The dolls are scale models of the actors, complete with accurate costumes and accessories.  The Hermione Granger figurine comes with interchangeable hands for holding her wand, schoolbag, Magical Theory book, Hogwarts: A History book, learning broomstick, and writing quill.  It also has a bottle of ink and a doll stand.  The images below are based on the prototype.

The Hermione doll is now available for preorder for around $210 USD from Sideshow Collectibles.  Thank you, Gizmodo Australia, for the tip!

Simpsons figures designed by top pop culture fine artists and sold by Kid Robot. Is there nothing not to love in that sentence? Kid Robot is teaming with icons artists Kenny Scharf and Ron English for new Simpson vinyl. Scharf has designed a 6” Bart figure while English has designed two 3” figures, Bart Grin […]

Okay… I was typing up the big schedule for Disney’s D23 Expo. Nothing too difficult, mostly formatting and pasting.

In the big “Hall D23″ (7500 seats), there will be a Disney Interactive presentation on Sunday, at 11 AM.

Now, yeah, there’s Kingdom Hearts and Infinity 3.0 (now with Wookies!) and Star Wars Battlefront. A lot of it has been announced at E3, except the D23 Expo allows the fans to get their hands on hands-on play demos.

But here’s something I heard tangentially via all the E3 hoopla last month:

Disney has this setup called Playmation, launching this October in partnership with Hasbro. (PR is here.) Basically, you’ve got wearable toys, like Iron Man’s repulsor or Hulk’s fists. It communicates with figure bases (similar to what you get with Infinity) which can host superheroes (for training) or villains (for beating the crap out of).  In a nutshell, it’s like playing Cowboys and Indians with Lazer Tag by way of HeroClix.

Playmation Marvel’s Avengers uses familiar technologies including smart toys, wearables, wireless technology, motion sensors, and more, but applies them in ways that are completely new to create an experience that’s never been possible before. Playmation is purposely not tethered to an Internet connection so players can run around and explore each adventure from anywhere they want—a bedroom, living room, or yard. With multiplayer modes, recruits can sync their Avenger Gear to tackle missions and combat arenas together, or face off in competitive play.

No CGI, it’s all in the player’s imagination.

So yeah, pretty dang cool, right?  Joe Quesada thinks so.

“With Playmation Marvel’s Avengers, the very best of Marvel storytelling is infused into every aspect of the system to further spark imaginative, active play,” said Joe Quesada, Chief Creative Officer, Marvel. “Playmation offers kids a dynamic way to interact with their favorite Super Heroes – I wish it was around when I was a kid!”

It. Gets. Better.

Oh… you have no idea…

No, I’m not talking about the Frozen and Star Wars systems in development for 2017 and 2016. (Yeah… no more “pew pew” or using Christmas wrapping paper rolls as lightsabers.) Nor the possibility of a Google Glass eyepiece display which adds extra data to the gameplay.

Take a look at this image I managed to find on the home page:

This is my new desktop theme.

One of the locales is A LIVING PLANET. Ego.  There’s also “Dino World” and the Moon, and Hulk’s hometown, and Kirby only knows who’s incarcerated on The Raft…

[Oh, please, Marvel Studios, PLEASE have Ego be the villain in the Guardians of the Galaxy sequel… and have Thor show up, if you can manage…]

So, what comes in the $120 starter pack? Oh, nothing that amazing really…

Includes Repulsor Gear, 2 Power Activators, 2 Smart Figures (Captain America and Iron Skull), instructions, and 25 embedded missions

That is not a typo. Iron Skull. Here’s his dossier:

Red Skull leads the evil organization Hydra seeking to conquer and rule all of humanity. After stealing one of Tony Stark’s suits, he evolved into the super-powered Iron Skull. Until the Avengers can neutralize his devastating Hydra Moon Laser, no human on Earth is safe.

(Oh, Marvel, why haven’t you crossed Captain America’s clone with Iron Man’s tech before? Maybe in the next Captain America movie?) As if the character isn’t cool enough, he has a freakin’ “Hydra Moon Laser”! 

Wondering what other villains are available? Utron. Ultron Bot (hacked Iron Legion soldiers). M.O.D.O.K.

YUP. Mother lovin’ MODOK. Leader of AIM.

Myself, what with MODOK, Iron Skull, Ultron, and Ego… it seems all downhill from here. Those are some mean mother lovin’ villains …unless they add other franchises and characters from the Cinematic Universe, or from Avengers Assemble (the origin of the Iron Skull) and other cartoons. Can they use Galactus? X-Men? The Celestials?

Meanwhile, if you prefer to stay indoors in front of a computer all day long, Disney Infinity is adding more Marvel characters, and allowing universes to interact in certain modules.

You can preorder everything now by visiting Disney’s store. Select Disney stores will also be hosting demos across the country!

Now, if you’ll excuse me, I need to process some XML files for work.  “We did dig dig dig dig dig dig dig / In our Mine the whole day through…”

Entertainment Earth booth at San Diego Comic-Con.

By Nick Eskey

When it comes to collectible toys and popular media merchandise, Entertainment Earth has just about everything. The company first started nearly twenty years ago out of an office and a garage in the San Fernando Valley of Los Angeles, California. Its founders, who were themselves collectors that knew the struggles of finding that particular toy, wanted to help the many others who had to hunt, or spend inflated resale prices.

Today, Entertainment Earth is now based in Simi Valley. It boasts a large warehouse that carries some of best selection of merchandise available. The website is jam packed with toys, figurines, television/movie memorabilia, and more. They even have their own production line called “Bif Bang Pow!” This allows Entertainment Earth to both house products from others and to produce the kind of merchandise that they themselves would want to buy. One thing they are quite excited for is their recent DC license: We are sure to see much in the ways of DC merchandise.

Kiss band member look-a-like on the 2nd floor of Entertainment Earth booth, here to celebrate the kiss line of merchandise.

With such growth and offering so much, Entertainment Earth’s booth at this year’s San Diego Comic-Con is hard to miss, with a line of attendees waiting around to buy much of the items on display in their glass cases and on the posters overhead. It’s also one of the lucky few that stand at two stories tall.

Hologram Dark Vader.

Some of the fast moving toys this year have been the blue 20 inch Hologram Darth Vader action figure, the G.I Joe Desert Duel play set, the Tina Fey and Amy Poehler action figures, a variant black Power Rangers Megazord, and the Adventure Time lunch box; they typically sell out early each day. New and exciting additions to the company’s exclusives are always being added on. I few of my favorites are: the Kiss umbrella, Super Hero chair cape, and the Star Wars “Jabba’s Rancor Pit.”

Kiss light up umbrella.

The Kiss umbrella looks ordinary enough when closed. When it opens up, it reveals each one of the band member’s faces in full makeup and costume on the fabric. The umbrella’s pole is probably the best part, lighting up in neon.

Does your chair stand for liberty, justice, and back support? You can show its super status with a Chair Cape. They strap to the back of the chair with Velcro, and fit many sized backings. Right now they have the Batman and Superman Chair Capes available, with future additions in line like Bizarro.

A great addition to any Star Wars collection is this Jabba’s Rancor Pit. The boxed set comes with Luke Skywalker (complete with lightsaber), Jabba, Slave Leia, C-3PO, and a towering Rancor. There’s no guarantee on its availability, so buy while you can.

If you’ve yet to check out the Entertainment Earth booth, I suggest you do so. They’re collectors that cater to collectors. And for those that weren’t able to make it for Comic-Con, luckily Entertainment Earth will be holding back a certain amount of their exclusives for their website, as to give others a chance to still buy. Now if only more retailers did that.

I fell in love with these comic character puppets, so I wanted to paint them to better understand their design and construction. (Direct link to YouTube video) Collector Mel Birnkrant helped me set them up in front of the sketch easel, and he made them dance for us.

Bil Baird Bug Marionettes, casein, 5 x 8 inches

I drew them first in watercolor pencil, then painted them in casein, which is a lot like gouache, a water-based opaque paint.

Jeanette sat next to me and sketched them too, using pen and watercolor. We were both so impressed with the designs: the smiling mouths, bulging eyes, big cartoony hands and the round-toed shoes.


They were built and performed by Bil Baird (1904-1987), the puppeteer best known for his work in the "Lonely Goatherd" sequence of The Sound of Music.

DIG DEEPER
Read about Bil Baird and his puppets (including Miss Bubbles) at Mel Birnkrant's website.
Baird wrote a classic book about the The Art of the Puppet
I'm using casein over watercolor pencils in in a watercolor journal

By Nick Eskey

Hasbro Entertainment, responsible for many of our favorite childhood toys, treated us press folk to a delicious breakfast accompanied by, of course, toys! Held at Café Sevilla in San Diego’s Gaslamp, the toy breakfast had not only a nice selection of food (yes, be jealous), but some great looking merchandise.

Transformers Generations: Devastator – Combiner Wars

Across the bar, there is a collection of some of Hasbro’s most sought after Comic–Con exclusives: a neon green “Transformers Generations Devastator” Combiner Wars set; the quick switch “Jem” doll; the “Pinkie Pie – My Little Pony” complete with chicken costume and “bucket of chicken” packaging; “G.I. Joe anniversary box set” with dvds, characters “A.V.A.C., Alley Viper Officer, Ralph, and Grunt,” as well as Cobra Scythe and G.I. Joe Chimera machines; “Cybertron High” Transformers box set; “Magic the Gathering Origins Planeswalker Anthology” players box set; “Marvel’s Ant-Man” action figure boxed set with miniature Ant-Man figurines; and a “Storm Trooper – First Order” boxed set with figure and book. All of these toys are limited editions to the convention and are on many a con-goer’s want list (I know someone that would stab for the Jem doll).

Jem and the Holograms – Quick Switch

Set at one station, Hasbro has trays of what look like hacked up dinosaur pieces. They are actually from Hasbro’s popular “Mashems” toy line, where kids and adults can pick and choose their parts and create uniquely fun characters and creatures. For their third line of the series they have “Jurassic,” going with the DNA splicing theme from the books and movies. If you have any of their previous Transformers or “Marvel” Mashems, then it’s possible to create a robot/hero/villain/dinosaur hybrid. Oh the humanity! More additions will be coming this fall for their Marvel line of Mashems.

Jurassic Mashems

Transformers Generations “Combiner Wars” series is a big hit for fans of the original toy from the 80’s. Combiners are Transformers robots that join together to form an even bigger, badass machine. The big appeal with these toys is that each one of the robot pieces still turn into their robot AND vehicle forms, as well as becoming joining pieces for the even bigger combiner. This “Superion” will be a must have.

My Little Pony – Pinkie Pie

And finally in ways of video games, Hasbro and “PlatinumGames” will be coming out with “Transformers Devastation.” The game is a 3^rd person perspective, 3D fighter that allows players to control one of some of the franchise’s favorite robots. The art style is almost a deeper form of cell shading, with the fighting taking place in a linear platform with waves of enemies that need to be defeated. Fighting in combos is the main objective, with frequent action-time button cues that lets the character transform into their alternate form for other attacks or strategies. There will various missions to complete such as collecting, timed levels, and protect. Transformers Devastation will be out this Fall for PS3, PS4, XBOX 360, XBOX One, and PC.

Magic the Gathering Origins: Planeswalker

Keep your eyes open for all of these wonderful Hasbro toys and exclusives, either out now or coming soon.

By Nick Eskey

DC Collectibles has another exciting line up for this upcoming year. We’ll be seeing much in the way of artist inspired work: from action figures, to statues. For the high-end collector, comic inspired artwork is typically high on the priority list. And what other company produces such detailed pieces from beloved franchises such as DC?

Jim Fletcher, showing off his action figure graveyard jacket.

Interesting bag view.

Kevin Kiniry, playing fortune teller with the DC Tarot Cards.

This year’s DC Collectibles sneak peak is a fun atmosphere, with DC’s Jim Fletcher in full action figure regalia, and DC’s Kevin Kiniry sporting a turban and reading tarot cards. The tarot cards are actually the “Just League Tarot Cards,” designed by Sara Richard, and releasing this November for $24.95.

Bronzed Batman Statue.

DC’s statue franchises have done very well for the company. It’s no surprise that they’ll eventually decide to bronze one of the best loved super heroes. This “Bronzed Batman Statue” captures the awesomeness of the caped crusader in mid flourish. No date yet on this beauty.

Batman.

Superman.

Armored Batman.

Coming in the way of the DC movies, we have three wonderful pieces inspired by the upcoming film “Batman v Superman Dawn of Justice” and sculpted by the artist James Marsano. Each of these resin statues look true to life, as much as a comic book can be of course. Batman and Superman will retail for $150 apiece and are dated for January 2016, whereas the Armored Batman will be released March 2016 and is yet to be priced.

Cheetah.

Killer Frost.

The best selling DC Comics Bombshells will be seeing some additions to their lineup that were designed by Ant Lucia. A short skirted “Cheetah” will be making her debut, as well as this snow bunny version of “Killer Frost.” Each will retail for $124.95, with Cheetah releasing in March and Killer Frost in June respectably.

Kryto, Hoppy, Streaky, and Dex-Starr.

DC Super-Pets will introduce a line of soft plush dolls that feature super powered pets. “Krypto, Hoppy, Dex-Starr, and Streaky” all range from 6 to 9 inches, and were designed by Art Baltazar. Dex-Starr and Streaky will be available this November, where Krypto and Hoppy will be March 2016. No price has been set on them yet.

One of Batman’s signature “toys” is of course the “Batmobile.” This version of his iconic vehicle is from the Batman the Animated Series. A number of figures will be releasing from the same show, but this Batmobile is the best thing by far. It measures at 24 inches long, with independently moving wheels. To add to the cool factor, the headlights, breaks, and engine all light up as well. It releases this October for $99.95.

Man-Bat, Azrael, and Professor Pyg.

The biggest additions this year however will be coming from DC’s action figures. Following with the “Batman Arkham Knight” video game by Rocksteady, DC was showing off their “Man-Bat, Azrael, and Professor Pyg.” These figures were all designed by Rocksteady, and offer over 20 points of articulation. will all be out February 2016 and retail for $25 a piece.

Firestorm, Green Lantern, The Joker

Another line coming to stores will be DC Comics Icons. Designed by Ian Reis, the series will include: “Firestorm” from the “Justice League”, “The Joker” from the “Death In the Family” comic story arc, and “Green Lantern John Stewart” from “Mosaic.” Each one also features over 20 points of articulation, as well as interchangeable accessories. They will be releasing May 2016 for $25 apiece.

Harley Quinn, Super Girl, and Adam Strange.

Superman, Lex Luthor, and Batman.

Exciting things are also coming from their designer line. From Darwyn Cooke, we’ll be seeing his versions of “Batman, Supergirl (complete with Krypto and Streaky), Harlequinn (with mallet accessory), and Adam Strange (with Raygun).” And artist Lee Bernejo will be coming out with his designs of “Batman (with Batarang and interchangeable hands), Green Lantern (with Lantern and interchangeable hands), Superman (with interchangeable hands) and Lex Luthor (with briefcase and interchangeable hands).” Each one will retail for $25, with Cooke’s line coming out June 2016, and Bernejo’s in April 2016.

But the most exciting toy will be “DC Comics Blueline Edition Batman.” Designed by the much sought after Jim Lee, this limited edition figure looks like a black and white sketching. Each package comes with either a signed sketch of Batman, the Joker, or Harley Quinn. Unfortunately, this baby is a Comic-Con exclusive. If you happen to be at the convention, it retails for $300.

I’m super excited over the level of collectibles coming out over the next twelve months. For those who’ll be able to get their hands on them, I’m as equally jealous.

It looks like another Harry Potter Funko POP! figure is on the horizon! The 9th figure announced is that of Harry holding the Sword of Gryffindor. This will be the third Harry Potter figure in the collection; there were previously two others announced–Harry in his Hogwarts uniform, holding a wand, and a special Quidditch Harry, which is exclusive to Hot Topic pre-release. It has been clarified that the Quidditch Harry will be available to all after the initial release.

Snitchseeker.com reports:

Accordingly, the Quidditch Harry Potter figure is said to be a pre-release exclusive for Hot Topic, while the set with Gryffindor’s sword is indeed the company’s actual exclusive piece.

You can preorder the Harry Potter Pop! Vinyls here. They will be available for purchase later this month.

Thank-you to our friends at Snitchseeker.com for posting about this!

By: Nick Eskey

Welcome back toy enthusiasts to the last installment of exclusive Funko toys for the 2015 San Diego Comic-Con. Well known for their POP! line of figurines, Funko strives to “cover as many beloved licenses and characters as possible to remind every Comic-Con attendee why they fell in love with these stories in the first place.”

Though there might be more Funko toys announced, these are the last of the exclusives for Comic-Con to be revealed. Remember, there will be no pre-buy option this year. If you see any merchandise that you want, then you need to buy them at the booth while supplies last.

Without further hullabaloo, here’s the last of the reveals:

Pop! Heroes: Batman v Superman – Batman v Superman 2-pack

What ever happened if the Man-of-Steel fought against the Dark Knight? With this Batman v Superman 2-pack, you can play-out this epic fight of fights for yourself. Maybe Batman’s batarang is made of kryptonite?

Pop! TV: Breaking Bad – Blue Crystal Heisenberg

Still reeling over the series end of Breaking Bad? Well this Blue Crystal Heisenberg (funny I know) will keep your withdrawals at bay. Just don’t upset the guy. He looks a little trigger happy.

Funko is excited to announce the debut of Pop! Tees at this year’s San Diego Comic-Con!

Steering away from the toy merchandise, Funko will also be selling the wearable variety. These shirts feature some of their best selling figures. Much like their POP! toys, these tees are displayed in fun colorful boxes.

Pop! Tees: SDCC Freddy Funko

Paying homage to the company’s mascot, this Freddy Funko tee has been made exclusively for San Diego Comic-Con. See Freddy in all of his splendor as he walks around the convention with collectibles, admittance badge, and light saber in hand.

Pop! Tees: Masters of the Universe – Disco Skeletor

All hail Disco Skeletor! This Masters of the Universe villain in his variant colors demands respect as he attempts to once and for all conquer Castle Grayskull.

Pop! Tees: Freddy Funko 8-Bit Pixelated

For you “old-school” types, this Freddy Funko 8-Bit Pixelated tee will be the perfect fit. Whether he’s on his way to rescue a princess, or jump on top of baddys’ heads, he’s sure to be super.

Pop! Tees: Ghostbusters – Burnt Stay Puft

Is there anything worse than burnt marshmallows? A gigantic Burnt Stay Puft marshmallow man, of course! Instead of having to clean this traveler off of every surface, best to stick to this shirt.

Pop! Tees: Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles – Skyline Group

Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles Skyline Group tee shows the sewer-dwelling crime fighters on top of two buildings.

Pop! Tees: Marvel – Black Widow Shield (Women’s Sizes Only)

And last on our exclusives list, this Black Widow Shield tee flies onto the scene. Unfortunately for her male fans, this shirt is only available in women’s sizes. Though I’m sure this will not stop some fellas.

Thanks for faithfully tuning in everybody for these Funko updates everybody. I can’t wait to see all of you at Comic-Con ’15!

Titan has announced their full line-up of SDCC activities, and there’s lots to choose from with ten signing sessions and two panels, as well as a bunch of exclusive covers, merchandise and sneak-peaks of their upcoming titles.

Their Doctor Who line gets it’s own panel this year, where details of a brand new Doctor Who miniseries will be announced, including which of the Time Lord’s many regenerations will star in it. From Titan:

Titan Comics gives you a sneak peek at the next chapters for the Doctor in all his incarnations – including sneak peeks at the direction of Year Two featuring the Tenth, Eleventh and Twelfth Doctors! Writer Cavan Scott and artist Blair Shedd discuss the smash-hit Ninth Doctor mini series! Writer Paul Cornell gives you a sneak peek at August’s comics cross-over event! Writers George Mann and Cavan Scott and cover artist Alice X. Zhang take you behind-the-scenes of the Twelfth Doctor SDCC exclusive short story edition. Plus, we reveal the next brand-new mini series – which Doctor is it going to be? Come along to find out! All attendees receive a FREE Doctor Who comic + prizes to win!

The Titan Doctor Who Comic panel is on Saturday July 11th from 3:30PM-4:30PM in room 5AB.

Fans of Assassin’s Creed can look forward to Titan’s global premiere of  artwork from the upcoming comic series based on the hugely popular video game franchise at Titan’s other comics panel on Thursday July 9th from 2:30-3:30PM in Room 4. In addition, the panel features TV producers and writers from Heroes Reborn and The Blacklist who will discuss their work on series tie-in comics. Roman Dirge, creator/writer and artist of the cult-smash series Lenore will also be on hand to talk about his planned new work. From Titan:

Titan Comics takes you behind-the-scenes of major new projects including Assassin’s Creed, Heroes and The Blacklist! See the global premiere of artwork from the new Assassin’s Creed comics, plus be the first to find out about the launch storylines and the all-new Assassins! Heroes Reborn Supervising Producer Seamus Fahey gives you a sneak peek at the new Heroes comic and special SDCC ashcan. The Blacklist TV show writer Nicole Phillips talks about writing the new The Blacklist comic series, which debuts at SDCC! PLUS! The artists of the creator-owned hits of tomorrow will be in attendance! Cult writer Roman Dirge gives you a ghostly glimpse at Lenore and his upcoming new projects! Artist Des Taylor takes you undercover of hit series Scarlett Couture! Harvey award nominated writer Mark Wheatley discusses his new remastered edition of Breathtaker! Plus, more comics talent and prizes to win!

Want to grab an author-signed copy of that gorgeous, SDCC exclusive Heroes ashcan with art from Paul Pope? How about one of only 200 FREE Doctor Who: Four Doctors art cards signed by four Doctor crossover series writer Paul Cornell? Here’s the complete signing schedule, all signings taking place at the Titan booth #5537:

THURSDAY, JULY 9th

Writer/Artist DES TAYLOR signs copies of Scarlett Couture from 12:30PM – 1:30PM

Writer/Artist ROMAN DIRGE  will be signing copies of Something at the Window is Scratching, The Cat Really with a Really Big Head and Lenore Pink Bellies: 4:00PM — 5:00PM

FRIDAY, JULY 10th

Heroes Reborn Supervising Producer Seamus Kevin Fahey will be signing copies of the Heroes comic SDCC ashcan with exclusive art from Paul Pope from 12:00PM — 1:00PM

The Blacklist TV show writer Nicole Phillips and cover artist Alice X. Zhang will be signing copies of The Blacklist #1 from Time:  2:00PM – 3:00PM

Writers George Mann and Cavan Scott and cover artist Alice X. Zhang will be signing copies of Doctor Who: Twelfth Doctor SDCC exclusive short story edition from 4:00PM — 5:00PM

Did you miss Roman Dirge’s 7/9 signing? No problem. he’s back at the Titan booth on 7/10 signing copies of Something at the Window is Scratching, The Cat Really with a Really Big Head and Lenore Pink Bellies: 5:30PM – 6:30PM

SATURDAY, JULY 11th

Writer Cavan Scott and artist Blair Shedd will be signing copies of Doctor Who: The Ninth Doctor series from 11:30AM – 12:30PM.

Writer Paul Cornell will be signing a FREE Doctor Who: Four Doctors art card. Only 200 available! From  1:30PM – 2:30PM.

Did you miss Writers George Mann, Cavan Scott and cover artist Alice X. Zhang on 7/10? Fear not, they’re back at the Titan booth signing more copies of Doctor Who: Twelfth Doctor SDCC exclusive short story edition from 5:00PM – 6:00PM.

SUNDAY, JULY 12th

Writer Max Davison, artist Matt Hebb, colourist Tracy Bailey and inker Jason Worthington will be signing copies of DreamWork’s Home #1 comic from 12:00PM – 1:00PM.

By: Nick Eskey

Hello again toy enthusiasts, and welcome to another installment of San Diego Comic-Con Funko releases! You know Funko, the purveyors of the highly popular POP! series of collectible figurines, who also vow to “cover as many beloved licenses and characters as possible to remind every Comic-Con attendee why they fell in love with these stories in the first place.”

Monday will be the last announcement for San Diego Comic-Con exclusives, so make sure to check back soon. And remember, there is no pre-buy option this year. So if you see any of these toys you want to get, you’ll have to visit the booth while supplies last, or cry into your Lean Cuisine.

Without any more procrastination, here’s the next installment:

Pop! TV: Arrow – The Arrow: Unmasked

We can’t get enough of the show “Arrow.” Feed the hunger with this ruggedly-handsome Arrow: Unmasked. His arrow will go straight… to your heart!

Pop! Disney: Big Hero 6 – Transluscent Glitter Emoticon Baymax

How would you rate the “kawaii” factor of this toy? The Translucent Glitter Emoticon Baymax from Pixar’s “Big Hero 6” always rates a big smiley face in my opinion.

Pop! Movies: Minions – Gone Batty

Can you imagine you’re life without a minion? Not only do they get the menial tasks done while you are plotting world domination, but they do it in historical style. Joining the large POP! minion collection is this Gone Batty. Wearing a purple cloak and showing off some pointy fangs, this blood sucker should be flying into your hands.

Pop! Disney: Tangled – Frying Pan Rapunzel and Burnt Pascal

Not too long ago, every Disney princess would be the equivalent of a damsel in distress; but not this feisty lady. Frying Pan Rapunzel and Burnt Pascal are ready for a fight. She’s got cookery, and she knows how to use it!

Dorbz: Marvel – X-Force Deadpool

The impending “Deadpool” movie has comic fans squealing with delight. Satisfy your Deadpool cravings with this X-Force Deadpool, dressed in his alternative grey onesie. If you don’t get it… well I just don’t know what this anti-hero will do to you. So, why chance it right?

Dorbz: Guardians of the Galaxy – Mossy Groot

And rounding it up, from the “Guardians of the Galaxy” we have this Dorbz Mossy Groot. We’ve already seen this fella on our list, but instead of the XL we are getting the regular size. Options are good to have.

Thanks for tuning it guys and gals, and don’t forget to come back for our last exclusive Funko releases post!

By: Nick Eskey

Hello again nerds and nerdettes, and welcome to another installment of San Diego Comic-Con Funko releases! You know Funko, the purveyors of the highly popular POP! series of collectible figurines, who also vow to “cover as many beloved licenses and characters as possible to remind every Comic-Con attendee why they fell in love with these stories in the first place. “

We have some exciting announcements this time, including an extremely limited edition POP! figurine. Reminder, this year Funko will not be doing any sort of pre-buying. The only way you can get this beauties is on site, so be sure to visit the booth. If you don’t have tickets to Comic-Con… well there’s always black magic?

Without any further distractions, let’s bring on the toys:

Pop! TV: Doctor Who – Eleventh Doctor holding Cyberman Head

Does the sight of a British police booth cause you to hyperventilate? This eleventh incarnation of Doctor Who holding a Cyberman head then is the right toy for you. Check him out with his chic purple jacket and debonair hair. *Swoon.*

Pop! Disney: Frozen – Barbershop Quartet Olaf

From Pixar’s “Frozen,” perpetuator of a few sickly cute and catchy songs, comes everyone’s favorite silly snowman Olaf. This Barbershop Quartet Olaf comes complete with a hat, cane, and similarly dressed seagull sidekick.

Pop! TV: The Flash – The Flash Unmasked

Fan’s of the series “Flash” should keep their eyes peeled for this POP! The Flash Unmasked. Be careful not to let this one slip by you.

Hikari: Star Wars – Darth Vader Matte Black

Another Star Wars collectible? No, never. Who could have predicted? Despite there already being a thousand other pieces of Star Wars merchandise however, this Darth Vader Matte Black figure by Hikari looks beautiful. It almost looks like if this famous Sith was made of copper. Better find some room on those already crowded shelves for this toy, which is limited to only 1200.

Hikari: Marvel – Frosted Groot

In this batch of announcements, Hikari will be also coming out with this Frosted Groot. Limited to 1000, it looks like this humanoid plant made out with Olaf. Oh the magic of warm hugs.

Dorbz: Batman – Thrillkill Batman

Nothing better strikes fear into the hearts of men more than a caped crusader in a mask. Well, maybe a caped crusader in full grin and an alternate costume. Dorbz’s Thrillkill Batman sports a red and black costume and a smiling face. A cute, yet disturbing addition to any collection.

Pop TV: Hannibal – Bryan Fulle

And rounding off our releases is this highly limited edition POP! It’s unfortunate that the show Hannibal was cancelled, but you can share the hurt with this Brian Fuller figure. Dressed to kill in his Hannibal like attire, the show’s creator also sports a pair of spectacles and a large kitchen knife. This bad boy comes in only 144 units and will be available during his signing at the Funko booth on Friday, July 10th at 2 p.m. The line for the signing won’t begin until 1p.m., so no early campers please. No other Funko items will be sold during this time.

We’re getting closer to Comic-Con, so stay tuned for more Funko exclusives!

In this mini trailer segment from "Gouache in the Wild," I visit the antique toy collection of Mel Birnkrant to paint his "Brownies" candy containers in acryla gouache (Link to YouTube)

It appears that there is a new Quidditch Harry Potter Funko Pop! figure on the horizon. This new figurine is the eighth edition of Funko Pop! figures in the Harry Potter series. It is also a Hot Topic exclusive and cannot be purchased elsewhere (pictured below). Warner Bros.’  Harry Potter Wishlist has a contest you can enter to win all of the figures before they are even available for purchase:

‘The first wave of the Harry Potter POP! release features fan-favorite characters including Harry Potter, Hermione Granger, Ron Weasley, Lord Voldemort, Albus Dumbledore, Rubeus Hagrid and Severus Snape. The Harry Potter figures will hit retail in mid-to-late July, but your friends at Harry Potter Wish List are giving fans the opportunity to win the complete Harry Potter POP! Vinyl Figures collection now, before you can buy them.’

This contest collection will include the Hot Topic exclusive Quidditch Harry Potter figurine. You can enter the contest here. All figurines in the Harry Potter Funko Pop! series will be available to purchase later this summer, July 31, in honor of Harry and Jo’s birthday!

Thanks to our friends over at SnitchSeeker for posting about this!