In 1985, Macoto Tezka (son of the great manga artist Osamu Tezuka) met musician and TV personality Haruo Chicada who had made a soundtrack to a movie which didn’t actually exist: The Legend of the Stardust Brothers.
At the time Macoto was just 22 years old, a film-student with many short experimental films under his belt, but yet to make a feature-debut and of course had the pressure of the Tezuka name. With Chicada as producer, Tezka then adapted this “fake soundtrack” into the real movie story of “The Stardust Brothers”.
With inspiration from “Phantom of the Paradise” and “Rocky Horror Picture Show”, Tezuka assembled a cast of some of Japan’s most famous musicians of the time, including such greats as Kiyohiko Ozaki, Issay, Sunplaza Nakano and Hiroshi Takano, alongside many famous names in Manga such as Monkey Punch (Lupin the 3rd), Shinji Nagashima (Hanaichi Monme), Yosuke Takahashi (Mugen Shinsi...
At the time Macoto was just 22 years old, a film-student with many short experimental films under his belt, but yet to make a feature-debut and of course had the pressure of the Tezuka name. With Chicada as producer, Tezka then adapted this “fake soundtrack” into the real movie story of “The Stardust Brothers”.
With inspiration from “Phantom of the Paradise” and “Rocky Horror Picture Show”, Tezuka assembled a cast of some of Japan’s most famous musicians of the time, including such greats as Kiyohiko Ozaki, Issay, Sunplaza Nakano and Hiroshi Takano, alongside many famous names in Manga such as Monkey Punch (Lupin the 3rd), Shinji Nagashima (Hanaichi Monme), Yosuke Takahashi (Mugen Shinsi...
- 1/13/2020
- by Grace Han
- AsianMoviePulse
In 1927, a German director Fritz Lang created the first sci-fi/futuristic movie "Metropolis" that later was the inspiration of the Ridley Scott movie "Blade Runner" and the classic Japanese anime movie "Ghost In The Shell". In 1945, a young Manga painter and writer Osamu Tezuka made his own version of "Metropolis" in a trilogy comic book, "Metropolis", "Lost World", and "New World" but the trilogy remained unfinished when he instead started to work on "Astroboy" and even today the Metropolis manga book is still incomplete. During the 60s, Tezuka San was working on anime tv series "Astroboy" and "Kimba the White Lion" with the director Rintaro and writer Katsuhiro Otomo. In the late 70s Rintaro was scheduled for his first feature film, and he asked...
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[Read the whole post on screenanarchy.com...]...
- 10/16/2016
- Screen Anarchy
From Marine Boy and Thundercats to Cities Of Gold and Akira, we look at the TV shows and movies that introduced the UK to Japanese anime
One evening in 1994, the BBC screened a documentary simply called Manga. Presented by Jonathan Ross, it showcased the rising popularity of Japanese animation, largely focusing on the output of Manga Entertainment, whose dubbed VHS releases had made a huge impact on anime fans and caused a certain amount of consternation among the mainstream press.
For British viewers, the anime boom took a long time to arrive. In America, Japanese shows like Kimba The White Lion, Gigantor and Astro Boy were a common sight on television in the 1960s, yet it took until the late 70s and 80s, and a string of European-Japanese co-productions, before anime finally began to find a hold on UK television.
As a youngster at the time, I didn't necessarily know...
One evening in 1994, the BBC screened a documentary simply called Manga. Presented by Jonathan Ross, it showcased the rising popularity of Japanese animation, largely focusing on the output of Manga Entertainment, whose dubbed VHS releases had made a huge impact on anime fans and caused a certain amount of consternation among the mainstream press.
For British viewers, the anime boom took a long time to arrive. In America, Japanese shows like Kimba The White Lion, Gigantor and Astro Boy were a common sight on television in the 1960s, yet it took until the late 70s and 80s, and a string of European-Japanese co-productions, before anime finally began to find a hold on UK television.
As a youngster at the time, I didn't necessarily know...
- 3/24/2015
- by ryanlambie
- Den of Geek
The first wave of anime to arrive in America was usually found in syndication, filler in the mornings and afternoons for the off-network stations in the New York area. It all started with Astro Boy but was quickly followed by Eighth Man and Gigantor, Kimba the White Lion to the Amazing Three. And then there was Marine Boy, the first of the color animated series to be broadcast in America. In his native Japan, the name translated to Undersea Boy Marine and was therefore Americanized.
Produced by Minoru Adachi and Japan Tele-Cartoons, there were 78 episodes in total and the first season or 26 episodes, have now been collected by Warner Archive, which is fitting since Warner was the company to distribute the series back in the 1960s.
Sometime in the future, there lived a boy, maybe 15, remarkable enough to serve as a full-fledged agent of the Ocean Patrol. Their mission was...
Produced by Minoru Adachi and Japan Tele-Cartoons, there were 78 episodes in total and the first season or 26 episodes, have now been collected by Warner Archive, which is fitting since Warner was the company to distribute the series back in the 1960s.
Sometime in the future, there lived a boy, maybe 15, remarkable enough to serve as a full-fledged agent of the Ocean Patrol. Their mission was...
- 9/2/2013
- by Robert Greenberger
- Comicmix.com
Cynopsis reports that Peter Fernandez, best known as the American voice of the title character in the Speed Racer television series from the 1960s, died last Thursday from lung cancer. He was 83.
Peter also was the voice for Speed's brother Racer X and other characters for the Japanese anime series that was dubbed in English. He voiced other characters for Lupin III, Astro Boy, Gigantor and Marine Boy. Additionally, Peter made a cameo appearance in the Warner Bros.' 2008 live-action Speed Racer film.
Born in New York City, Fernandez started as a child model for the John Robert Power Agency. He then appeared on both radio and Broadway until he was drafted into the Army at age 18, late in World War II. His radio appearances included roles on "Superman", "Mr. District Attorney", "Let's Pretend", "Gangbusters", "My Best Girls", and "Suspense", as well as on many soap operas. After his discharge...
Peter also was the voice for Speed's brother Racer X and other characters for the Japanese anime series that was dubbed in English. He voiced other characters for Lupin III, Astro Boy, Gigantor and Marine Boy. Additionally, Peter made a cameo appearance in the Warner Bros.' 2008 live-action Speed Racer film.
Born in New York City, Fernandez started as a child model for the John Robert Power Agency. He then appeared on both radio and Broadway until he was drafted into the Army at age 18, late in World War II. His radio appearances included roles on "Superman", "Mr. District Attorney", "Let's Pretend", "Gangbusters", "My Best Girls", and "Suspense", as well as on many soap operas. After his discharge...
- 7/19/2010
- by Glenn Hauman
- Comicmix.com
Child Broadway star and celebrated American voiceover actor Peter Fernandez has lost his battle with lung cancer. He was 83.
Fernandez died at his home in Pomona, New York on Thursday.
He appeared in Broadway play Whiteoaks when he was 11 and went on to act on children’s radio shows.
However, he was perhaps best-known for providing the voice of the title character in hit U.S. 1960's animated TV series Speed Racer, an adaptation of Japanese anime series Mach Go Go Go.
He also provided the voice of the title character's brother Racer X, wrote the American lyrics for the show’s theme song and directed the dubbing cast.
His voice can be heard in other titles including Astro Boy, Gigantor, Marine Boy, Star Blazers: The Bolar Wars and Superbook.
In 2008, he made a cameo appearance as an announcer in the live-action Speed Racer film.
Fernandez is survived by his wife, Noel Smith, three children, nine grandchildren, a sister and a brother.
Fernandez died at his home in Pomona, New York on Thursday.
He appeared in Broadway play Whiteoaks when he was 11 and went on to act on children’s radio shows.
However, he was perhaps best-known for providing the voice of the title character in hit U.S. 1960's animated TV series Speed Racer, an adaptation of Japanese anime series Mach Go Go Go.
He also provided the voice of the title character's brother Racer X, wrote the American lyrics for the show’s theme song and directed the dubbing cast.
His voice can be heard in other titles including Astro Boy, Gigantor, Marine Boy, Star Blazers: The Bolar Wars and Superbook.
In 2008, he made a cameo appearance as an announcer in the live-action Speed Racer film.
Fernandez is survived by his wife, Noel Smith, three children, nine grandchildren, a sister and a brother.
- 7/18/2010
- WENN
Speed Racer has been silenced. Peter Fernandez, who voiced the iconic character in the American import of the 1960s Japanese cartoon and who also wrote the lyrics to the indelible theme song, has died. He succumbed to lung cancer at 83, according to the Anime News Network. Aside from Speed, Fernandez also voiced Racer X and miscellaneous minor characters on the high-octane toon. He also lent his pipes to key parts in the English-language versions of Astro Boy, Ultraman, Gigantor and Star Blazers. The Wachowski brothers even gave him a cameo in their 2008 live-action remake. Rest in peace.
- 7/16/2010
- E! Online
Peter Fernandez, who voiced the title character in the 1960s animated "Speed Racer" TV series, died Thursday of lung cancer. He was 83.
Fernandez also provided the voices for Speed's brother Racer X and several other characters in the English-dubbed adaptation of Tatsunoko's "Mach Go Go Go" series, according to the Anime News Network. He directed the voice cast and wrote the lyrics to the signature theme song ("Go Speed Racer, Go!") as well.
Fernandez later played Lupin III, Daisuke Jigen and President Jimmy Carter in the Jal dubbing of the "Lupin III: The Secret of Mamo" (1978). His voice also can be heard in such dubbed anime titles as "Astro Boy," "Gigantor" and "Marine Boy," and he made a cameo appearance in the 2008 live-action "Speed Racer" film from Warner Bros.
Fernandez appeared in the 1949 film "Cry Across the RIver" and in the early TV series "Captain Video and His Video Rangers.
Fernandez also provided the voices for Speed's brother Racer X and several other characters in the English-dubbed adaptation of Tatsunoko's "Mach Go Go Go" series, according to the Anime News Network. He directed the voice cast and wrote the lyrics to the signature theme song ("Go Speed Racer, Go!") as well.
Fernandez later played Lupin III, Daisuke Jigen and President Jimmy Carter in the Jal dubbing of the "Lupin III: The Secret of Mamo" (1978). His voice also can be heard in such dubbed anime titles as "Astro Boy," "Gigantor" and "Marine Boy," and he made a cameo appearance in the 2008 live-action "Speed Racer" film from Warner Bros.
Fernandez appeared in the 1949 film "Cry Across the RIver" and in the early TV series "Captain Video and His Video Rangers.
- 7/15/2010
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
What do the DVD release gods have in store for us today? This week's biggest releases would have to be the Jack Black/Michael Cera comedy Year One and Disney's Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs on Blu-ray, but looking beyond that there are a handful of smaller movies worth checking out. Both Trick r' Treat and Assassination of a High School President are movies that ended up going direct to DVD despite fairly positive reviews, so now is your chance to check them out. Also out this week are two amazing documentaries, Anvil! The Story of Anvil and Not Quite Hollywood, plus Blu-ray releases for Audition, Willy Wonka & the Chocolate Factory, and some holiday classics including A Charlie Brown Christmas. Will you be buying or renting anything this week? Year One [1] (DVD, Blu-ray [2]) My Life in Ruins [3] (DVD, Blu-ray [4]) Trick 'r Treat [5] (DVD, Blu-ray [6]) Assassination of a High School President [7] Seventh Moon [8] (DVD,...
- 10/6/2009
- by Sean
- FilmJunk
More than two weeks prior to the theatrical release of "Astro Boy", Summit Entertainment has released another brand new clip for viewing pleasure. Put out via Yahoo! Movies, the less than one minute snippet features the scene wherein the young robot meets his giant foe, Peacekeeper, and discovers that he is well equipped to defend himself.
Prior to the release of this clip, two other clips had been brought forth. One sees Astro in a high-speed chase around the Metro City to avoid capture after just learning that he is different from the other kids. The other one reels in the footage where he is thrown into a gladiator arena and is forced to face off against bigger and meaner robots.
Created by a brilliant scientist named Tenma, Astro Boy is a young robot with super strength, x-ray vision, unbelievable speed and the ability to fly. When Tenma sends him away,...
Prior to the release of this clip, two other clips had been brought forth. One sees Astro in a high-speed chase around the Metro City to avoid capture after just learning that he is different from the other kids. The other one reels in the footage where he is thrown into a gladiator arena and is forced to face off against bigger and meaner robots.
Created by a brilliant scientist named Tenma, Astro Boy is a young robot with super strength, x-ray vision, unbelievable speed and the ability to fly. When Tenma sends him away,...
- 10/6/2009
- by AceShowbiz.com
- Aceshowbiz
Picture a world where people gather and interact in joy and harmony, where groups of gaily-clad youths break into spontaneous song and dance at regular intervals, where spontaneous conga lines of diverse peoples stretch for blocks and wind through the market stalls, where merchants sell and people buy with easy affability and business is brisk, where people debate the topics of the day with great thoughtfulness and passion and the powers-that-be listen to the people-at-large. The Twilight Zone? Are you some sort of philosopher, or something? Well…no and yes. I just spent a weekend at my first New York Anime Festival at the Javitz Center in Manhattan and I found myself intermittently amused, bemused, overwhelmed, and overjoyed.
Think about it. Everyone has watched an animated something in their lifetime, no matter how old. From Looney Tunes to Disney to Hanna-Barbera to Pixar, we’ve experienced this media and it...
Think about it. Everyone has watched an animated something in their lifetime, no matter how old. From Looney Tunes to Disney to Hanna-Barbera to Pixar, we’ve experienced this media and it...
- 10/5/2009
- by Alexandra Honigsberg
- Comicmix.com
I haven't been able to build real excitement toward the CG adaptation of Astro Boy, but I'll admit it looks entertaining. Just nowhere near as appealing as if it had been a Pixar film. For those who do look forward to it, here's one more little treat, a clip featuring the titular robot forced to go Maximus on some poor Samurai robot's butt. That clip's right down here, while the film opens in theaters one week before Halloween.
- 10/3/2009
- by Tony Lang
- JoBlo.com
Apple has got a hold of a brand new clip for "Astro Boy". Coming out weeks away from the theatrical release of this CG-animated film, the one-minute plus snippet is titled "The Robot Games" and sees Astro Boy inside a gladiator ring facing off a bigger and meaner robot. Although in the beginning he refuses to battle the robot, he soon caves in to the thought of saving his life.
Astro Boy is a young robot with super strength, x-ray vision, unbelievable speed and the ability to fly. Created by a brilliant scientist named Tenma, he is initially made to replace the son Tenma has lost. But, when Tenma figures out that the existence of Astro couldn't mend his grieving heart, he sends the robot away.
Alone and rejected, the young robot embarks on a journey in search of acceptance, learning the joys and emotions of being human and gaining...
Astro Boy is a young robot with super strength, x-ray vision, unbelievable speed and the ability to fly. Created by a brilliant scientist named Tenma, he is initially made to replace the son Tenma has lost. But, when Tenma figures out that the existence of Astro couldn't mend his grieving heart, he sends the robot away.
Alone and rejected, the young robot embarks on a journey in search of acceptance, learning the joys and emotions of being human and gaining...
- 10/3/2009
- by AceShowbiz.com
- Aceshowbiz
Coming-of-age stories always retain a certain formula that usually consists of a teen full of angst breaking free from the shackles of expectations. Either placed on them by their parents or society as a whole, the subject usually discovers a passion which is usually not accepted by the film’s oppressors until the end, usually concluding in a tearful moment. The same is true for Drew Barrymore’s directorial debut with Whip It. Though the story, based on the novel Derby Girl by Shauna Cross who also adapted the story for screen, seems awfully generic on paper, it flies across the screen with warmth, genuine authenticity and crushing elbows to the face.
Bliss Cavendar (Ellen Page) isn’t like all the rest of ‘em. Growing up in the small town of Bodeen, Texas, 17-year-old Bliss is surrounded by grunting jocks and done-up pageant goers, something lost on the porcelain-faced girl.
Bliss Cavendar (Ellen Page) isn’t like all the rest of ‘em. Growing up in the small town of Bodeen, Texas, 17-year-old Bliss is surrounded by grunting jocks and done-up pageant goers, something lost on the porcelain-faced girl.
- 10/2/2009
- by Erik Buckman
- ReelLoop.com
Gigantor was a Japanese cartoon that aired in the U.S. in the mid sixties, ten years after its original release in Japan. The show chronicles the adventures of 12-year old Jimmy Sparks who has been given the remote control to the giant robot Gigantor, which was built by his Uncle, Dr. Bob Brilliant, to prevent war and stop crime. The cartoon was brought over after the successful translation of the Japanese cartoon Astro Boy. These “Pre-Anime” cartoons paved the way for the proliferation of anime in the United States later on. These shows are reminiscent of American cartoons from the same period, but feature early versions of the visual motifs and storytelling elements that would become standards for anime in the future.
In certain ways Gigantor paved the way for most of the Japanese animation we see today. First and foremost, Gigantor is one the first anime series about giant robots,...
In certain ways Gigantor paved the way for most of the Japanese animation we see today. First and foremost, Gigantor is one the first anime series about giant robots,...
- 9/30/2009
- by Michael Epstein
- JustPressPlay.net
Back in May, Boom! Studios announced that they would be bringing you a story you never knew you wanted: Die Hard: Year One. Penned by Howard Chaykin and illustrated by Stephen Thompson, it promised to tell the story of John McClane in his rookie year of 1976, during the heady time of the Bicentennial Celebration. If we know McClane like we think we know him (and after four Die Hard movies, I think we do), nothing is going to go very smoothly, peacefully, or without a Yippie-Ki-Yay Motherf******. The comic goes on sale this Wednesday, and I thought I'd use its fine timing to kick off a discussion about paper prequels. They're becoming more and more of a presence on comic book shelves, though they're generally tied into an upcoming release. This summer had a lot of them, as Star Trek, Terminator: Salvation, and Transformers all received a prequel comic. There's more to come,...
- 9/30/2009
- by Elisabeth Rappe
- Cinematical
Imagi International Holdings, a leading producer of CG-animated feature films with studios in both Hong Kong and the U.S., today announced that it had secured mainland China co-production status for its film Astro Boy . China's Film Bureau, which acts as the gatekeeper for foreign films seeking distribution in China, has awarded Astro Boy co-production status. The Film Bureau typically "blacks out" release windows around major national holidays. These windows are reserved for domestic and co-produced films. "Co-production status means 'Astro Boy' can be released on the mainland in October, something foreign films are not permitted to do," said Chiong Kit Phoon, executive deputy chairman of Imagi. "Not only does co-production mean we get access to...
- 9/29/2009
- Comingsoon.net
The gals from Whip It strapped on their roller skates and posed for some rather risque shots in Vs magazine (check it out for more pics). Drew Barrymore, Ellen Page, Juliette Lewis and Zoe Bell recreate the action scenes from the forthcoming movie with photos taken from legendary photog Ellen Von Unwerth.
Barrymore makes her directorial debut on Whip It, which stars Page as Bliss Cavender, a discontent teen in a small town in Texas. Her character discovers roller derby as a way out of her depressed state and kicks arse along the way.
Barrymore admitted making Whip It was painful especially when she ended up with skating injuries while shooting the action scenes from the derby.
“What I love about the sport is that it’s real and high stakes. And by the way, it’s scary as sh*t to do,” she told Time Out New York. “I...
Barrymore makes her directorial debut on Whip It, which stars Page as Bliss Cavender, a discontent teen in a small town in Texas. Her character discovers roller derby as a way out of her depressed state and kicks arse along the way.
Barrymore admitted making Whip It was painful especially when she ended up with skating injuries while shooting the action scenes from the derby.
“What I love about the sport is that it’s real and high stakes. And by the way, it’s scary as sh*t to do,” she told Time Out New York. “I...
- 9/27/2009
- by Erik Buckman
- ReelLoop.com
Check out the U.K. poster for the upcoming The Imaginarium of Doctor Parnassus courtesy of Empire. It makes me think of the Polar Express which, in turn, makes me think of the Baby Jesus and hot apple cider. (I love Christmas. Go to hell if you don’t like it.)
With The Imaginarium of Doctor Parnassus slated for a Christmas Day opening in Obamaland, Terry Gilliam’s latest film (aka Heath Ledger’s last movie until the Rapture) has seen its share of problems. From Ledger’s untimely death during production to financial concerns over a U.S. distribution, Doctor Parnassus has looked more like Doctor The Dangblam Movie Isn’t Ever Going To Come Out.
Eventually heads were pulled out of arses and Gilliam’s feature will air in the States.
The Imaginarium of Doctor Parnassus is a $30M “freakshow” movie that follows the story of an 1000-year-old immortal (Christopher Plummer) who,...
With The Imaginarium of Doctor Parnassus slated for a Christmas Day opening in Obamaland, Terry Gilliam’s latest film (aka Heath Ledger’s last movie until the Rapture) has seen its share of problems. From Ledger’s untimely death during production to financial concerns over a U.S. distribution, Doctor Parnassus has looked more like Doctor The Dangblam Movie Isn’t Ever Going To Come Out.
Eventually heads were pulled out of arses and Gilliam’s feature will air in the States.
The Imaginarium of Doctor Parnassus is a $30M “freakshow” movie that follows the story of an 1000-year-old immortal (Christopher Plummer) who,...
- 9/27/2009
- by Erik Buckman
- ReelLoop.com
Hey, Hey, here’s a look at the poster from Disney’s upcoming fairy tale flick The Princess and the Frog.
I’m a big fan of hand-drawn animation and while Pixar does a mighty fine job (DreamWorks, that’s a different story) with its cartoon features, color me a traditionalist but I miss the days of yore with princesses and midgets, singing, dancing and evil white folks.
To appease my addiction for animated films from a simpler time, Disney will be releasing The Princess and the Frog, their first hand-drawn animated tale in 5-frakkin’ years. It’s also their first animated-film with an African-American princess.
A “Broadway-style musical,” The Princess and the Frog is set in the French Quarter of New Orleans. A prince named Naveen from the land of Maldonia is transformed into a frog by the evil voodoo magician Dr. Facilier. The frog prince mistakes a girl...
I’m a big fan of hand-drawn animation and while Pixar does a mighty fine job (DreamWorks, that’s a different story) with its cartoon features, color me a traditionalist but I miss the days of yore with princesses and midgets, singing, dancing and evil white folks.
To appease my addiction for animated films from a simpler time, Disney will be releasing The Princess and the Frog, their first hand-drawn animated tale in 5-frakkin’ years. It’s also their first animated-film with an African-American princess.
A “Broadway-style musical,” The Princess and the Frog is set in the French Quarter of New Orleans. A prince named Naveen from the land of Maldonia is transformed into a frog by the evil voodoo magician Dr. Facilier. The frog prince mistakes a girl...
- 9/27/2009
- by Erik Buckman
- ReelLoop.com
Here are the new TV DVDs in stores tomorrow.
The fall not only means that the new seasons and new shows start up, but also it's the time when season sets of TV shows are released to coincide with the new seasons of those shows. So this week we have DVDs for shows like Big Bang Theory, CSI: Miami, Grey's Anatomy, and It's Always Sunny.
Astro Boy - Vols. 1-5 The Big Bang Theory - Season 2 Bonanza - Season 1, Vols 1 and 2 CSI: Miami - Season 7 Continue reading New TV on DVD releases this week
Filed under: TV on DVD, Reality-Free
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The fall not only means that the new seasons and new shows start up, but also it's the time when season sets of TV shows are released to coincide with the new seasons of those shows. So this week we have DVDs for shows like Big Bang Theory, CSI: Miami, Grey's Anatomy, and It's Always Sunny.
Astro Boy - Vols. 1-5 The Big Bang Theory - Season 2 Bonanza - Season 1, Vols 1 and 2 CSI: Miami - Season 7 Continue reading New TV on DVD releases this week
Filed under: TV on DVD, Reality-Free
Permalink | Email this | | Comments...
- 9/14/2009
- by Bob Sassone
- Aol TV.
Sandra Bullock: Is it a bad thing we're opening Labor Day Weekend?
Bradley Cooper: Whatever. It's not like we were ever an Oscar contender.
An editor of mine recently observed how odd it is that Memorial Day weekend is such a big-deal launching pad for summer movies while the three-day Labor Day holiday is generally where the mediocre (and the downright awful) go to die.
Let it be known that 2009 doesn't deviate from that formula with this weekend's big nationwide releases.
If you thought Transformers: Revenge of the Fallen and The Ugly Truth were as witless and inane as movies were going to get this summer, you clearly haven't seen All About Steve, a ramshackle rom-com so blisteringly stupid and off-the-rails that you find yourself wondering if anyone in the production has ever met a human being.
Sandra Bullock (who also produced, so she can't blame anyone else) stars as Mary Magdalene Horowitz,...
Bradley Cooper: Whatever. It's not like we were ever an Oscar contender.
An editor of mine recently observed how odd it is that Memorial Day weekend is such a big-deal launching pad for summer movies while the three-day Labor Day holiday is generally where the mediocre (and the downright awful) go to die.
Let it be known that 2009 doesn't deviate from that formula with this weekend's big nationwide releases.
If you thought Transformers: Revenge of the Fallen and The Ugly Truth were as witless and inane as movies were going to get this summer, you clearly haven't seen All About Steve, a ramshackle rom-com so blisteringly stupid and off-the-rails that you find yourself wondering if anyone in the production has ever met a human being.
Sandra Bullock (who also produced, so she can't blame anyone else) stars as Mary Magdalene Horowitz,...
- 9/3/2009
- by ADuralde
- The Backlot
It's been quite a busy summer all around and even if you're a hardcore entertainment addict like most of us on the HitFix staff, chances are you haven't caught all of the trailers Hollywood has besieged moviegoers with over the past few weeks. To make your life a little easier before the upcoming Labor Day weekend, here's 10 new previews including trailers for a bloody Megan Fox in "Jennifer's Body," the long awaited transformation of "The Wolfman," a surprisingly fun looking "Astro Boy," Ricky Gervais' directorial debut, "The Invention of Lying," and Michael Cera's "Youth in Revolt."As always, you can check...
- 9/2/2009
- by HitFix Staff
- Hitfix
Check out them butt guns! The new Astro Boy trailer's come a long way since the rough-cut footage we saw at Comic-Con. Summit and Imagi Studios re-introduce Osamu Tezuka's beloved boy robot from his manga and anime series in high-tech gadgetry for 3-D justice. He'll be zooming into theaters Oct. 23. Toby (Freddie Highmore) definitely looks different with a rounder physique, and they've given him some new friends: a magenta-streaked, tough as bones gal pal, a giant cement mixer and a trashcan dog. Fans of the original series will notice the animators stuck to the essentials though—the aforementioned butt guns, Toby's original costume (which shows up later in the trailer), and the inclusion of main characters Dr. Tenma (Nic Cage) and Dr. Elefun (Bill Nighy). Is it just me, or does...
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- 9/2/2009
- by Fandango
- Fandango
We have added the full trailer for Warner Brothers Pictures CGI animation feature 'Astro Boy'. Starring the vocal talents of Nicolas Cage, Kristen Bell, Bill Nighy, Freddie Highmore and Donald Sutherland. Watch the trailer below;Astro Boy is an adaptation of the comic story created by manga genius Osamu Tezuka and turned into a popular television series in the 1960s.A thrilling tale of a true hero, Astro Boy is an all-new, feature film full of action, adventure, humor and heart. It will be brought to life on the big screen in breathtaking CGI animation on October 23rd, 2009.Set in futuristic Metro City, Astro Boy is about a young robot with incredible powers created by a brilliant scientist named Tenma (Nicolas...
- 9/2/2009
- by Anthony Pearson
- Monsters and Critics
If you weren't a fan of the Bens on "At the Movies" get ready for a 180 as the new team made up of Chicago Tribune's Michael Phillips and the New York Times' A.O. Scott as the video to the right gives you your first look at the new movie reviewing duo. The video blatantly says to me, "Sorry about the joke we played on you with Lyons and Mankiewicz, here are two guys who know what they're talking about." Lionsgate let everyone know via Twitter that Kick-Ass will arrive on April 16, 2010 and Sylvester Stallone's The Expendables will hit theaters on August 20, 2010. Then we learn Star Trek will be heading back to IMAX this Friday for a two week run. And we also learn Jean-Pierre Jeunet's Micmacs a tire-larigot has been picked up by Sony Pictures Classics. Just like Avatar, tickets for The Twilight Saga: New Moon are now...
- 9/2/2009
- by Brad Brevet
- Rope of Silicon
ComingSoon.net's Superhero Hype! has your exclusive first look at the action-packed gladiator sequence from Summit Entertainment's Astro Boy , opening in theaters on October 23. In the sequence, Astro Boy is forced to fight an array of fearsome battlebots, including the towering Battlebot Samaurai (first photo). During the fight, Astro Boy discovers incredible powers for the first time. You can check out the images here !
- 9/1/2009
- Comingsoon.net
It seems like we’ve been covering “Astro Boy” forever, so why stop now? The film is due out in theaters October 23, 2009, but until then, here’s a new trailer (butt guns included!) and the final one-sheet poster for the movie. Few characters have made as powerful or as lasting an impression on international popular culture as Astro Boy. The little robot first appeared in 1951 as a character in the celebrated artist and animator Osamu Tezuka’s legendary manga (Japanese comic book) and became an instant icon. He was subsequently featured as the star of his own television series in both black-andwhite and in color, eventually airing in over 40 countries. Astro Boy created the standard for a new form of animation that has become world famous as anime. Now for the first time, Astro Boy will be brought to life on the big screen. Created with breathtaking computer animation from Imagi Studios,...
- 9/1/2009
- by Nix
- SciFiCool.com
Summit Entertainment has released a new teaser trailer as well as the final one sheet from their eagerly anticipated animated sci-fi adventure "Astro Boy." The film is directed by David Bowers and features the voice talents of Freddie Highmore, Nicolas Cage, Bill Nighy, Kristen Bell, Donald Sutherland, Eugene Levy, Matt Lucas, Nathan Lane and Sterling Beaumon. Timothy Harris pens the screenplay based on the Osamu Tezuka creation. Set in futuristic Metro City, Astro Boy is about a young robot with incredible powers created by a brilliant scientist named Tenma (Nicolas Cage). Powered by positive “blue” energy, Astro Boy (Freddie Highmore) is endowed with super strength, x-ray vision, unbelievable speed and the ability to fly...
- 9/1/2009
- Upcoming-Movies.com
Comic books have been integrated into our worldwide society for years now. When the comic strip was born with “Tintin”, the blossoming of Japanese manga (with works such as “Astro Boy’”) to the birth of the superhero with “Superman”, we cannot deny the impact they have played on our lives. The storytelling, illustrations and engaging characters that continue to draw us back have kept this medium afloat for decades.
The surprising in adaptations (good and bad?)
During the past twenty years Hollywood has ushered in a new wave of cinema in the form of comic book adaptations. Is that necessarily bad? Each person has a different point of view depending on their take of a single character. From the Reeves’ versions of Kal-El, the Burton-ized style of “Batman” and the burst of big time mainstream blockbuster with Bryan Singer’s “X-Men”, comic book adaptations have become quite the norm in...
The surprising in adaptations (good and bad?)
During the past twenty years Hollywood has ushered in a new wave of cinema in the form of comic book adaptations. Is that necessarily bad? Each person has a different point of view depending on their take of a single character. From the Reeves’ versions of Kal-El, the Burton-ized style of “Batman” and the burst of big time mainstream blockbuster with Bryan Singer’s “X-Men”, comic book adaptations have become quite the norm in...
- 8/31/2009
- by Melissa Molina
- Atomic Popcorn
If you compare the marketing for Imagi Studios’ Astro Boy between North American and Japan, the approach is worlds apart. While the domestic trailer takes on a comedic tone and also showcasing Astro’s many robotic capabilities, the Japanese trailer place more emphasis on the sentimental side of the story. Which is better? My pick is this one.
The theatrical release date is on October 23rd. You’ll can compare the Japanese and domestic trailer after the jump.
The theatrical release date is on October 23rd. You’ll can compare the Japanese and domestic trailer after the jump.
- 8/31/2009
- by Al Young
- Screen Anarchy
Do you want to know what makes a great Thursday? Posters, that’s what. Especially posters from roller derby movies (Whip It) directed by a gal who once flashed Letterman her boobs, an unused poster from arguably the best movie of the summer (Inglourious Basterds) and finally, the one-sheet from a movie about a flying robot boy (c’mon, it’s Astro Boy).
Happy Poster Thursday, everyone!
Whip It, due out October 2nd, is directed by Drew Barrymore. The movie follows the story of Bliss Cavendar (Ellen Page), a misfit growing up in the small town of Bodeen, Texas. She likes indie rock, being a hipster and seeing art house films; all things that do not exist within the borders of Bodeen. How does Bliss rage against the machine? She joins the local roller derby squad.
I’m not the first one to say this, but it sounds like Juno on wheels.
Happy Poster Thursday, everyone!
Whip It, due out October 2nd, is directed by Drew Barrymore. The movie follows the story of Bliss Cavendar (Ellen Page), a misfit growing up in the small town of Bodeen, Texas. She likes indie rock, being a hipster and seeing art house films; all things that do not exist within the borders of Bodeen. How does Bliss rage against the machine? She joins the local roller derby squad.
I’m not the first one to say this, but it sounds like Juno on wheels.
- 8/27/2009
- by Erik Buckman
- ReelLoop.com
Quick media update coming your way for Astro Boy. Summit Entertainment has released the film's final one-sheet, which, like the movie, is vibrant with colors.
Astro Boy One-Sheet
Astro Boy was created by the "god of manga," Japan's Osamu Tezuka, in the early 1950s. The iconic character has since found wide popularity around the world as the hero of three acclaimed animated television series spanning the past four decades, besides being one of the top licensed properties for merchandising.
Set in futuristic Metro City, Imagi Studios' Astro Boy is about a young robot with incredible powers created by a brilliant scientist to replace the son he has lost. Unable to fulfill the grieving father's expectations, our hero embarks on a journey in search of acceptance, experiencing betrayal and a netherworld of robot gladiators, before he returns to save Metro City and reconcile with the man who had rejected him.
Astro Boy One-Sheet
Astro Boy was created by the "god of manga," Japan's Osamu Tezuka, in the early 1950s. The iconic character has since found wide popularity around the world as the hero of three acclaimed animated television series spanning the past four decades, besides being one of the top licensed properties for merchandising.
Set in futuristic Metro City, Imagi Studios' Astro Boy is about a young robot with incredible powers created by a brilliant scientist to replace the son he has lost. Unable to fulfill the grieving father's expectations, our hero embarks on a journey in search of acceptance, experiencing betrayal and a netherworld of robot gladiators, before he returns to save Metro City and reconcile with the man who had rejected him.
- 8/27/2009
- www.canmag.com
A rough cut of the trailer for Imagi Studios’ Astro Boy that was screened exclusively at Comic-con a few weeks back has been finalized and ready for online viewing via MSN. Based on the classic manga series from the legendary Osamu Tezuka, the sci-fi animated film features comedy, action-adventure and emotional moments. Whether your a long time fan or a newcomer to the franchise, I believe there is something for all ages to enjoyed. Of course, it just wouldn’t be the same Astro Boy we all know and love without the infamous butt machine gun and the trailer doesn’t disappoint on that note.
Set in futuristic Metro City, Astro Boy is about a young robot with incredible powers created by a brilliant scientist named Tenma (Nicolas Cage). Powered by positive “blue” energy, Astro Boy (Freddie Highmore) is endowed with super strength, x-ray vision, unbelievable speed and the ability to fly.
Set in futuristic Metro City, Astro Boy is about a young robot with incredible powers created by a brilliant scientist named Tenma (Nicolas Cage). Powered by positive “blue” energy, Astro Boy (Freddie Highmore) is endowed with super strength, x-ray vision, unbelievable speed and the ability to fly.
- 8/12/2009
- by Al Young
- Screen Anarchy
Summit Entertainment has finally come up with a full trailer for its upcoming "Astro Boy". Found at MSN, the two-minute more sneak peek provides a look at the construction of Astro Boy, the first meeting between the robot boy and Cora, and the danger Astro has to face when President Stone lays his eyes on him. It also gives a taste of the comedic touch given to the CGI animated feature.
Set in futuristic Metro City, "Astro Boy" tells the story of a young robot with incredible powers. He is created by a brilliant scientist to replace the son he has lost, but when the scientist finds out the robot couldn't mend his grieving heart, he sends Astro Boy away. Alone and rejected, the young robot embarks on a journey in search of acceptance where he experiences betrayal and gets into a netherworld of robot gladiators, before he finally returns...
Set in futuristic Metro City, "Astro Boy" tells the story of a young robot with incredible powers. He is created by a brilliant scientist to replace the son he has lost, but when the scientist finds out the robot couldn't mend his grieving heart, he sends Astro Boy away. Alone and rejected, the young robot embarks on a journey in search of acceptance where he experiences betrayal and gets into a netherworld of robot gladiators, before he finally returns...
- 8/12/2009
- by AceShowbiz.com
- Aceshowbiz
Yes, Astro has a bunch of machine guns sticking out of his butt. Check out the new feature trailer for David Bowers' upcoming animated adventure "Astro Boy" after the jump, and you will see what I mean.
Anyway, this new preview includes plenty of new footage from the upcoming film, and while it sure doesn't look fantastic, I admit it doesn't look that ugly either. As you can see, the trailer also reveals quite a lot about the movie's central plot.
"Astro Boy" is based on Osamu Tezuka's comic series that follows the adventures of a young robot created by a scientist to replace his late son. Some bad guy wants to use Astro for his evil plans, but our robotic hero tries everything in his power to maintain world peace.
Freddie Highmore, Nicholas Cage, Donald Sutherland, Bill Nighy, Eugene Levy and Nathan Lane are part of the film's voice cast.
Anyway, this new preview includes plenty of new footage from the upcoming film, and while it sure doesn't look fantastic, I admit it doesn't look that ugly either. As you can see, the trailer also reveals quite a lot about the movie's central plot.
"Astro Boy" is based on Osamu Tezuka's comic series that follows the adventures of a young robot created by a scientist to replace his late son. Some bad guy wants to use Astro for his evil plans, but our robotic hero tries everything in his power to maintain world peace.
Freddie Highmore, Nicholas Cage, Donald Sutherland, Bill Nighy, Eugene Levy and Nathan Lane are part of the film's voice cast.
- 8/11/2009
- by Franck Tabouring
- screeninglog.com
Those are five English words I never thought I’d string together. But this is Sci-Fi pilgrims and it isn’t always pretty. “Astro Boy” opens Oct 23rd and recounts the tale of a robot created by a grieving scientist to replace his dead son. Astro Boy is considered the first manga series and originated all the way back in 1952 by the god of manga, Osamu Tezuka. Astro Boy features the vocal stylings of a huge group of talents including Nicolas Cage, Charlize Theron, Kristen Bell, Bill Nighy, Samuel L. Jackson, Donald Sutherland and Eugene Levy. Thanks to Comingsoon for the heads up.
- 8/11/2009
- by endymi0n
- SciFiCool.com
“Astro Boy” is animated movie about a young robot with incredible powers based on Osamu Tezuka’s manga series.
Earlier this year we saw the first and the second teaser trailer for the movie which is directed by David Bowers from the script written by Timothy Harris.
Now we have a full-length theatrical trailer for “Astro Boy.” Check it out below.
Astro Boy’s all-star cast features the voices Nicolas Cage, Donald Sutherland, Nathan Lane, Bill Nighy and Eugene Levy with Freddie Highmore in the title role.
Set in futuristic Metro City, “Astro Boy” is about a young powerful robot created by a brilliant scientist Tenma (Nicolas Cage). Powered by positive “blue” energy, Astro Boy (Freddie Highmore) is endowed with super strength, x-ray vision, unbelievable speed and the ability to fly. The young robot uses its powers to become a famous superhero and faces his biggest challenge when an alien threatens Earth.
Earlier this year we saw the first and the second teaser trailer for the movie which is directed by David Bowers from the script written by Timothy Harris.
Now we have a full-length theatrical trailer for “Astro Boy.” Check it out below.
Astro Boy’s all-star cast features the voices Nicolas Cage, Donald Sutherland, Nathan Lane, Bill Nighy and Eugene Levy with Freddie Highmore in the title role.
Set in futuristic Metro City, “Astro Boy” is about a young powerful robot created by a brilliant scientist Tenma (Nicolas Cage). Powered by positive “blue” energy, Astro Boy (Freddie Highmore) is endowed with super strength, x-ray vision, unbelievable speed and the ability to fly. The young robot uses its powers to become a famous superhero and faces his biggest challenge when an alien threatens Earth.
- 8/11/2009
- by Fiona
- Filmofilia
Manga adaptations have been hitting Japanese screens en masse in recent years, though fantasy sword epic “Dororo” does at least have an impeccable pedigree to set it out from the crowd, being based upon a long running series from the 1960s by the masterful Osamu Tezuka (who also created the much loved iconic “Astro Boy”). Having already been transformed into an anime, the comic made the leap to cinemas in 2007 at the hands of director Akihiko Shiota, previously responsible for the likes of “Canary” and “Harmful Insect”. The film was a massive hit on its original release, setting a domestic box office record by holding onto the top spot for an unprecedented six consecutive weeks, and is now finally available on region 2 DVD via Mvm, coming with a featurette and deleted scenes. Although it ostensibly takes place in the future, the film basically has a period setting, and begins as...
- 8/8/2009
- by James Mudge
- Beyond Hollywood
After previewing new trailer for "Astro Boy" at San Diego Comic Con 2009, Summit Entertainment released six fresh images from the CGI adaptation of Osamu Tezuka's manga. A number of the newly-outed stills feature first look at three of the film's characters, Nicolas Cage's Dr. Tenma, Bill Nighy's Dr. Elefun and Donald Sutherland's President Stone.
Aside from the revelation of those characters, some other shots from the movie are also shared. One of them sees Astro soaring above Metro City, another captures the boy robot being scanned, and the rest highlight on Peacekeeper. In addition to the pictures, Summit's also updated the official "Astro Boy" website with an interactive timeline, tracing Astro Boy's near 60 year history.
Back on Thursday, July 23, Summit has not only revealed a new trailer for the animated movie, but also brought up interesting casting news. During "Astro Boy" panel at this year's Comic Con,...
Aside from the revelation of those characters, some other shots from the movie are also shared. One of them sees Astro soaring above Metro City, another captures the boy robot being scanned, and the rest highlight on Peacekeeper. In addition to the pictures, Summit's also updated the official "Astro Boy" website with an interactive timeline, tracing Astro Boy's near 60 year history.
Back on Thursday, July 23, Summit has not only revealed a new trailer for the animated movie, but also brought up interesting casting news. During "Astro Boy" panel at this year's Comic Con,...
- 7/29/2009
- by AceShowbiz.com
- Aceshowbiz
Some brand-new still images from David Bowers' upcoming big-screen adaptation of "Astro Boy" popped up online today, and you can check out some of them below.
While I'm not incredibly excited about this project, I sure admit these photos look beautiful. They display clean animation and strong colors, and that's something already. Check out some more pics at Sci Fi Wire here.
"Astro Boy" is an animated film based on Osamu Tezuka's comic series that follows the adventures of a young robot created by a scientist to replace his late son.
While I'm not incredibly excited about this project, I sure admit these photos look beautiful. They display clean animation and strong colors, and that's something already. Check out some more pics at Sci Fi Wire here.
"Astro Boy" is an animated film based on Osamu Tezuka's comic series that follows the adventures of a young robot created by a scientist to replace his late son.
- 7/29/2009
- by Franck Tabouring
- screeninglog.com
Footage (and new casting announcements) from "Astro Boy" wowed audiences during Comic-Con, and now Summit Entertainment has released six new images from the CGI adaptation of Osamu Tezuka's massively popular manga.
The film tells the story of a scientist, Dr. Tenma (voiced by Nicolas Cage) who replaces his lost son with a powerful robot (Freddie Highmore), who must then come to terms with his own identity as a child, a robot and, most importantly, a hero. Along with Cage, actors Donald Sutherland and Bill Nighy also voiced characters in the film, and today we have our first look at all of their characters in the new images -- as well as a few more shots from the much-anticipated film.
Below we have a look at Dr. Tenma (Cage) and Dr. Elefun (Nighy), as well as President Stone (Sutherland).
Summit's also updated the official "Astro Boy" website with an interactive...
The film tells the story of a scientist, Dr. Tenma (voiced by Nicolas Cage) who replaces his lost son with a powerful robot (Freddie Highmore), who must then come to terms with his own identity as a child, a robot and, most importantly, a hero. Along with Cage, actors Donald Sutherland and Bill Nighy also voiced characters in the film, and today we have our first look at all of their characters in the new images -- as well as a few more shots from the much-anticipated film.
Below we have a look at Dr. Tenma (Cage) and Dr. Elefun (Nighy), as well as President Stone (Sutherland).
Summit's also updated the official "Astro Boy" website with an interactive...
- 7/28/2009
- by Rick Marshall
- MTV Splash Page
Summit Entertainment/Imagi Animation has let loose with half a dozen new stills from their upcoming ‘Astro Boy’ feature film. These images include the first shots of Dr. Tenma, President Stone, and Dr. Elefun.
Check ‘em out:
Also live is the timeline on the film’s official site. It goes from the present date all the way back to 1928, the year Osamu Tezuka, the creator of ‘Astro Boy’ and “Father of Anime,” was born.
‘Astro Boy’ is set for release on October 23rd, 2009.
Source: Official Site...
Check ‘em out:
Also live is the timeline on the film’s official site. It goes from the present date all the way back to 1928, the year Osamu Tezuka, the creator of ‘Astro Boy’ and “Father of Anime,” was born.
‘Astro Boy’ is set for release on October 23rd, 2009.
Source: Official Site...
- 7/28/2009
- by Kirk
- WeAreMovieGeeks.com
Astro Boy has new life, thanks to CGI magic and the talent of voice actor Freddie Highmore. Created in back in 1950s Japan as a work of manga (Japanese for "comic book") by Osamu Tezuka, Astro Boy was turned into a popular TV series that ran for three years in Japan before being exported to the rest of the world.
Imagi Animation Studios rolled out unfinished clips of the new feature-length CGI Astro Boy movie at the San Diego Comic-Con and Reelz had the opportunity to sit down with Highmore after the presentation for a little Q&A. Watch the clip below for Highmore's response to the question, "Are you personally a fan of animation and comic books?"
Astro Boy was directed by David Bowers and also features the voice talents of Kristin Bell, Nicolas Cage, Nathan Lane, Eugene Levy, Donald Sutherland, Bill Nighy, and Samuel L. Jackson.
Next Showing:...
Imagi Animation Studios rolled out unfinished clips of the new feature-length CGI Astro Boy movie at the San Diego Comic-Con and Reelz had the opportunity to sit down with Highmore after the presentation for a little Q&A. Watch the clip below for Highmore's response to the question, "Are you personally a fan of animation and comic books?"
Astro Boy was directed by David Bowers and also features the voice talents of Kristin Bell, Nicolas Cage, Nathan Lane, Eugene Levy, Donald Sutherland, Bill Nighy, and Samuel L. Jackson.
Next Showing:...
- 7/25/2009
- by BrentJS Sprecher
- Reelzchannel.com
A new CG-animated version of the classic manga and anime, "Astro Boy," created by the "god of manga," Osamu Tezuka in the 1950's, debuted clips at Comic-Con 2009. This seminal work about a heroic boy robot was a generation's first exposure to the Japanese art form when it aired in the U.S. in the 60's, and is set to hopefully gain a whole new audience.
Director David Bowers, producer Maryann Garger, and stars Freddie Highmore (Astro) and Kristen Bell (Cora) were there to answer audience questions.
Deb Aoki tweets from the panel:
Very nice clips from astro boy -- saw at least 3 nods to tezuka in the first clipDirector david bowers: "macoto tezuka will be doing voice of the tezuka character in the japanese version of astro boy movie"Also announced: Samuel l. Jackson, a.k.a. Mr. Comic-con is the voice of zog the junkyard robot in astro boyActually,...
Director David Bowers, producer Maryann Garger, and stars Freddie Highmore (Astro) and Kristen Bell (Cora) were there to answer audience questions.
Deb Aoki tweets from the panel:
Very nice clips from astro boy -- saw at least 3 nods to tezuka in the first clipDirector david bowers: "macoto tezuka will be doing voice of the tezuka character in the japanese version of astro boy movie"Also announced: Samuel l. Jackson, a.k.a. Mr. Comic-con is the voice of zog the junkyard robot in astro boyActually,...
- 7/23/2009
- by Kim Kindya
- Comicmix.com
David Bowers, director of Flushed Away is set to bring his talents to the world of Osamu Tezuka's Metro City in this fall's Astro Boy . As part of the Sdcc panel, it was revealed that Charlize Theron and Samuel L. Jackson have joined the cast. Bowers explains a little bit about who each are playing and talks about dream projects he could imagine for the future; including adapting the classic British cartoon "Danger Mouse." Csshh!: The first question I have, actually, comes from my dad who was a big "Astro Boy" fan growing up and, when I told him there was a movie coming, he wanted to know if the old theme song was going to be around at all. Bowers: We have our own theme music. We have John Ottmann who is just an amazing composer. He's created just a...
- 7/23/2009
- Comingsoon.net
ComingSoon.net/Superhero Hype! recently enjoyed a tour of Imagi Animation Studios' Los Angeles outpost (tucked as discretely away in an unlikely location inside a Sherman Oaks shopping mall as Astro's backside blasters are) where work was nearing an end on the long-anticipated feature film based on Osamu Tezuka's enduringly beloved manga comic dating back to 1952 and perhaps most fondly recalled from its animated Japanese TV incarnation from the 1960s. Astro Boy remains in iconic pop culture figure in Japan, as adored as Mickey Mouse (where he's honored with everything from fashion items to statuary), and also celebrated in countries across the globe. So it's with no small effort that Imagi . the Hong Kong-based company perhaps best known for the short-lived but lavishly animated...
- 7/17/2009
- Comingsoon.net
MTV News recently had the chance to visit Imagi Studios where the finishing touches are being put on “Astro Boy,” set to hit theaters October 23.
Though the character isn’t quite as recognizable to Us audiences, “Astro Boy” is one of the most enduring Japanese pop icons, dating back to his 1952 debut in the manga by Osamu Tezuka. The film tells the story of a scientist, Tenma (Nicolas Cage) who replaces his lost son with a powerful robot (Freddie Highmore), who must then come to terms with his own identity as both a child and a hero.
Fans should be pleased to know that Imagi’s take on “Astro Boy” is incredibly faithful to the various incarnations of the character of the years, right down to the “butt machine guns”. Extensive work has also been done by the Imagi artists to create accurate 3D versions of the 2D drawings and...
Though the character isn’t quite as recognizable to Us audiences, “Astro Boy” is one of the most enduring Japanese pop icons, dating back to his 1952 debut in the manga by Osamu Tezuka. The film tells the story of a scientist, Tenma (Nicolas Cage) who replaces his lost son with a powerful robot (Freddie Highmore), who must then come to terms with his own identity as both a child and a hero.
Fans should be pleased to know that Imagi’s take on “Astro Boy” is incredibly faithful to the various incarnations of the character of the years, right down to the “butt machine guns”. Extensive work has also been done by the Imagi artists to create accurate 3D versions of the 2D drawings and...
- 7/17/2009
- by Silas Lesnick
- MTV Splash Page
Astroboy the tv show is coming to DVD August 18th and Sony sent over to us the complete details. The anime series based on the legendary Japanese comic series by Osamu Tezuka, known as the Japanese Walt Disney, is now available in five separate collectible volumes and priced to own just in time for the new feature film. Astro Boyââ.¢: The Anime Series, Volumes 1-5 follows an atomic-powered robot who is a reluctant superhero possessing super strength, jet-rocket feet and the ability to fly. Inspired by the anime series that originally aired in Japan in 1960, Astro Boyââ.¢: Th...
- 6/22/2009
- MoviesOnline.ca
A brand new featurette for "Astro Boy" has made its way out via Sina. Clocking in at more than three minutes, the featurette first presents the Astro Boy character as The Icon comparing it to Walt Disney's Mickey Mouse while giving background facts of the character which has been inducted into The Robot Hall of Fame.
Halfway through the video, the in-development movie is introduced by showing the filming process of the CGI animation. The footage then continues by displaying the characters side-by-side with the actors hired to voice them. Nearing the end of the featurette, actor Nicolas Cage who is set to lend his voice to Dr. Tenma shares a few words about the movie.
Set in futuristic Metro City, "Astro Boy" tells the story of a young robot with incredible powers. He is created by a brilliant scientist to replace the son he has lost, but when the...
Halfway through the video, the in-development movie is introduced by showing the filming process of the CGI animation. The footage then continues by displaying the characters side-by-side with the actors hired to voice them. Nearing the end of the featurette, actor Nicolas Cage who is set to lend his voice to Dr. Tenma shares a few words about the movie.
Set in futuristic Metro City, "Astro Boy" tells the story of a young robot with incredible powers. He is created by a brilliant scientist to replace the son he has lost, but when the...
- 6/18/2009
- by AceShowbiz.com
- Aceshowbiz
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