Ben McKenzie Talks “Batman: Year One” Animated Feature, New Images And Video
The World’s Finest presents the latest in a series of studio-conducted interviews, provided by Warner Home Video, for the Batman: Year One direct-to-video animated feature. Continue reading below for an interview with actor Ben McKenzie as he discusses the upcoming DC Universe Animated Original Movie title. Click on the first three thumbnails below, featuring McKenzie, for the interview clips in the Quicktime format. Additionally, click on the thumbnail images for a closer look at each image.
own hands as the title character of Batman: Year One
Three-time Emmy winner Bryan Cranston, fanboy favorites Eliza Dushku and
Katee Sackhoff included in cast of all-new DC Universe Animated Original Movie
Coming to Blu-ray, DVD on October 18, 2011 from Warner Home Video
Ben McKenzie plays a wealthy young man on a personal quest for justice in TNTs hit series Southland. Now the actor heads to the streets of Gotham City as the voice of another rich young adult with a need for righteousness in Batman: Year One, the next entry in the popular, ongoing series of DC Universe Animated Original Movies.
McKenzie makes his maiden voyage into animation voiceovers as Bruce Wayne/Batman, the title character of comics legend Frank Millers classic retelling of the Dark Knights gritty, formative days.
Produced by Warner Premiere, DC Entertainment and Warner Bros. Animation, the all-new, PG-13 rated Batman: Year One arrives October 18, 2011 from Warner Home Video as a Blu-ray Combo Pack and DVD, On Demand and for Download. Batman: Year One will also be available in a special download-for-purchase early window starting October 11 through iTunes, Xbox Live, Zune, VUDU HD Movies and Video Unlimited on the PlayStation Network & Sony Entertainment Network.
Executive producer Bruce Timm and casting/dialogue director Andrea Romano will be at New York Comic Con to discuss the Batman: Year One during a panel on Friday, October 14 from 2:00-3:00 p.m. in the IGN Theater.
Currently in the midst of filming the fourth season of Southland, McKenzie skyrocketed to fame in 92 episodes of The O.C. His film credits include acting opposite Al Pacino in 88 Minutes, and working alongside Amy Adams in Junebug. He also starred in the 2008 adaptation of Dalton Trumbos Johnny Got His Gun.
A true admirer of Millers work, McKenzie embraced the character and the story with great enthusiasm. Following his initial recording session for Batman: Year One, McKenzie took some time to discuss the film, the character, Adam West and his dogs linguistic skills. Read on
QUESTION: What was your initial reaction to being offered the role of Batman?
BEN MCKENZIE: When I got the offer for Batman: Year One, I was very excited because I really like this particular take on Batman. It’s a darker take a Frank Miller take on the origin story. And I think it’s fun to play the character in a way that it is more reminiscent of his being a real vigilante. He’s a tough, tortured soul who is exacting revenge upon a criminal element that took something very important away from him. As an actor, this role gives you a little bit more backstory, so you have the chance to play him as a real person, albeit a person who is a little bit mentally unstable, perhaps, but heroic nonetheless. Its exciting to get to play a character who is so specifically intense and unusual.
QUESTION: And how many times in the last weeks since you’ve known you got the role have you said to anyone, I’m Batman?
BEN MCKENZIE: (laugh) I usually wake up in the morning, go to the mirror and say, I’m Batman. I’ll say it to my dog, and he gives a very confused look, which he always does because he doesn’t speak English. Ive tried to use the I’m Batman line on everyone from the valet to the guy washing my car. You know, anyone who will listen. No one seems to pay any attention. But I know. (laughs)
QUESTION: Did you do any research or prep work going into the recording session?
BEN MCKENZIE: I did actually read the comic again, and it was exactly how I remembered it. Really cool and kind of dark and gritty and very bold in how it approached the source material, which has been carved out into such a revered piece of comic book fiction. It is impressive that someone would do a new take on the story, summoning the courage to just throw away a lot of that traditional stuff and really focus on some of the darker elements, which is what Frank Miller did. I think it’s great. It’s cool, it’s bold, and I think the film lives up to that.
QUESTION: As this was your first animated voiceover project, what were you expecting and how did find the experience?
BEN MCKENZIE: It’s always fun to do something that you’re not particularly experienced in, something that’s a little bit of a new skill to learn. Regina King has done a lot of voiceover stuff for The Boondocks with Andrea (Romano) and she loves it. So it was really nice to feel like I was in good hands and that I’d be well treated. I think any job where you can stay indoors, work a couple of hours, say a few things and get paid is a good job to have. It beats Southland, where you’re out in the streets and the heat in the wool uniforms. Nobody needs that. (laughs)
QUESTION: Were there any outside influences on your performance before working on the booth?
BEN MCKENZIE: I’d like to say I was influenced mainly by Adam West’s performance as Batman more than anyone else but its not quite the same take. There’s something in the way that Frank Miller wrote the comics that lends itself to a darker gravelly-voiced kind of intensity. You cant help but go there. So maybe it’s sort of similar to the live-action version that Christian Bale is doing, but maybe not quite as much in that direction.
QUESTION: How did your familiarity with the original Frank Miller comics help formulate your approach to the acting?
BEN MCKENZIE: This Frank Miller world is an amazing place with a wonderfully dark aesthetic it has the kind of noir-ish world of moral ambiguity that I really respond to. And I think if youre going to play it sincerely, you have to realize that its written like a piece of noir with real characters and real emotional takes. This isnt some fantasy. Bruce Wayne is damaged, hes emotionally scarred, and hes trying to make sense of justice in the world. So he creates an alter ego to keep some normalcy in his daily life. Thats the way he tries to make some sense of the world. Hes battered and scarred, but that sort of makes him stronger, because hes ultimately unafraid of putting it all on the line. Hes very human. Thats the great thing about Batman he has no super powers. He is a flawed man.
QUESTION: How did you differentiate the voice or the attitude for Batman versus Bruce Wayne?
BEN MCKENZIE: We worked on distinguishing between Bruce, who is an introvert perhaps, but is forced through his position in society to be affable to a certain degree, and then Batman himself, who is really sort of the devil within. He can really take on a whole another vocal inflection and demeanor. So we sort of wanted to play with that and make Bruce almost overcompensate in order to hide his identity, to be even more affable and agreeable than he would otherwise in order to hide the fact that he is Batman.
It’s hard to do because when you’re going through the script in the sessions, you’ll just jump back and forth. One page, you’ll be doing Bruce Wayne, and the next page, you’ll be doing Batman. So it is hard to kind of keep them separate in your mind. It requires a few takes to sort of relax into it and to switch it up. I’m sure tonight I’ll be dreaming of being Batman. (laughs)
QUESTION: Was there a focal point for you to stay on target throughout the recording session?
BEN MCKENZIE: I think the acting is really just trying to imagine being 12 again and seeing Batman in this animated form and thinking What would you like to see? What would you really geek out on? If you can bring that passion across on the screen, then that’s your job. I think if you were going to do anything acting-wise that got any methody, you’d be a little scary. I think it’s better to just try and have fun with it.
QUESTION: Do you have a favorite line or scene?
BEN MCKENZIE: There’s a fun scene with one of the young thuggish guys where (Batman) says something like I know pain. Sometimes I like to share it, maybe with somebody like you. I like that moment. The adrenaline and the testosterone really flows through you. It’s fun. It’s really fun. If you were ever picked on in high school and you just wanted to grab the bully and say, I’m gonna beat the living heck out of you, that’s exactly what you get to do as Batman.
QUESTION: Did this experience give you a new perspective on Batman?
BEN MCKENZIE: Yes, absolutely. This experience has definitely reinvigorated my interest again for Batman. I’ve seen the Christopher Nolan films, and I think they’re great. When you get a chance to actually be a part of something based on the same source material, it’s really exciting. It allows you to sort of experience what that character is experiencing, which is a darkly fun take on what it would be like if you could actually fight crime, if you could actually get revenge on all of the people that you think are bad people in this world, if you could exact justice out of an unjust world. Its kind of thrilling even to be an actor playing that part.
QUESTION: Do you see any parallels to your character on Southland?
BEN MCKENZIE: I think there is sort of a broad parallel between Bruce Wayne/Batman and my character on Southland in the sense that they’re both wealthy and they’re both fighting crime in the broadest sense. Bruce Wayne and, really, Batman is just the extreme version. Instead of becoming a patrol officer, he spends his money creating an alter ego and going out and doing it himself. So Bruce Wayne/Batman is just the fantastical version of what Ben Sherman is doing on Southland. He’s just doing it to a more extreme level. So, yeah, there’s definitely a comparison to be made for sure.
The above content is also available at the The World’s Finest Batman: Year One micro-site.
Details on the home video release of Batman: Year One, including a rundown of Blu-ray extras, can be found here, with additional media available here. Warner Home Video is expected to cross-promote the release of Batman: Year One with Batman: Arkham City, the latest entry in the Batman videogame franchise from Warner Bros. Interactive Entertainment, which is also scheduled for an October 18th, 2011 release.
A co-production of Warner Premiere, Warner Bros. Home Entertainment Group, DC Entertainment and Warner Bros. Animation, the direct-to-video Batman: Year One animated feature debuts October 18th, 2011 on Blu-ray, DVD, OnDemand and for Download from Warner Home Video. Stay tuned for further updates here soon at The Worlds Finest.
Discuss this in The DC Animation Forum!
In additional news, The World’s Finest and WaterTower Music have teamed up to give fans the opportunity to receive a free copy of the Batman: Arkham City – The Album CD release from WaterTower Music. Beginning today and for this week only, The World’s Finest will be giving away ten copies in total of the Batman: Arkham City – The Album Soundtrack CD release to ten lucky recipients, courtesy of WaterTower Music.
Batman: Arkham City – The Album is now available on Amazon, iTunes and other digital music retailers. The soundtrack is available as both a digital download (Click here for iTunes!) and an Amazon-exclusive compact disc release (Click here to purchase!).
To enter, simply send an email to bbeyond@yahoo.com, including your name, full mailing address and phone number by Friday, October 14th, 2011. Please label the email “Batman: Arkham City CD Contest.” Only one entry per person, per household will be accepted. From there, ten entries will be randomly selected to receive a free copy of the Batman: Arkham City – The Album CD release from WaterTower Music. Please note this special giveaway is only available to residents of the United States. Only those randomly chosen to receive a copy of the CD release will be notified via email shortly after the closure of the contest. Please note the terms and conditions of this special giveaway are subject to change without notice.
Batman: Arkham City – The Album is now available on iTunes, Amazon and other digital music retailers. Official details for the Batman: Arkham City – The Album CD release from WaterTower Music are available here.
Click on the image above to view a Quicktime clip from “Green Lantern”
This October 14th, Green Lantern flies onto Blu-ray 3D Combo Pack, Blu-ray Combo Pack, DVD and Digital Download from Warner Bros. Home Entertainment Group.
Green Lantern will be available on Blu-ray 3D Combo Pack, featuring a 3D hi-definition, a hi-definition, a standard definition and an UltraViolet Digital Copy of the standard definition theatrical version of the film, for $40.99; Blu-ray Combo Pack, featuring a hi-definition, a standard definition and an UltraViolet Digital Copy of the standard definition theatrical version of the film, for $35.99; and on single disc DVD with UltraViolet Digital Copy for $28.98. The extended cut will be in hi-definition on the Blu-ray 3D Combo Pack and Blu-ray Combo Pack only.
UltraViolet Digital Copy allows consumers to download the film to a PC or Mac plus instantly stream it from a digital cloud to many computers, tablets or smartphones.
Starring Ryan Reynolds (The Proposal) in the title role, DC Comics legendary super hero soars to the edges of space as Green Lantern, where a war has been raging between those who rule with fear, and those who protect life: the Green Lantern Corps.
Click here to read the Green Lantern 3D Blu-ray Review!
Click here to discuss Green Lantern!
Four New Images Released From Upcoming “Batman: Year One” Animated Feature
The World’s Finest has a first look at four new images from the upcoming Batman: Year One animated feature, the next installment in the DC Universe Animated Original Movie line set for release on October 18th, 2011. The four images have been provided to The World’s Finest first from Warner Home Video. Please note that while the images are of large size, they are not in high-definition quality. Click on the thumbnail images before for a closer look at each image.
22 = Bruce Wayne walking into the seedier side of Gotham.
43 = Bruce Wayne in his library, about to have an epiphany
48 = A disillusioned James Gordon on the bed next to his pregnant wife.
68 = Batman
The above images are also available at the The World’s Finest Batman: Year One micro-site.
Details on the home video release of Batman: Year One, including a rundown of Blu-ray extras, can be found here, with additional media available here. Warner Home Video is expected to cross-promote the release of Batman: Year One with Batman: Arkham City, the latest entry in the Batman videogame franchise from Warner Bros. Interactive Entertainment, which is also scheduled for an October 18th, 2011 release.
A co-production of Warner Premiere, Warner Bros. Home Entertainment Group, DC Entertainment and Warner Bros. Animation, the direct-to-video Batman: Year One animated feature debuts October 18th, 2011 on Blu-ray, DVD, OnDemand and for Download from Warner Home Video. Stay tuned for further updates here soon at The Worlds Finest.
Discuss this in The DC Animation Forum!
Click on the image above to view a Quicktime clip from “Green Lantern”
This October 14th, Green Lantern flies onto Blu-ray 3D Combo Pack, Blu-ray Combo Pack, DVD and Digital Download from Warner Bros. Home Entertainment Group.
Green Lantern will be available on Blu-ray 3D Combo Pack, featuring a 3D hi-definition, a hi-definition, a standard definition and an UltraViolet Digital Copy of the standard definition theatrical version of the film, for $40.99; Blu-ray Combo Pack, featuring a hi-definition, a standard definition and an UltraViolet Digital Copy of the standard definition theatrical version of the film, for $35.99; and on single disc DVD with UltraViolet Digital Copy for $28.98. The extended cut will be in hi-definition on the Blu-ray 3D Combo Pack and Blu-ray Combo Pack only.
UltraViolet Digital Copy allows consumers to download the film to a PC or Mac plus instantly stream it from a digital cloud to many computers, tablets or smartphones.
Starring Ryan Reynolds (The Proposal) in the title role, DC Comics legendary super hero soars to the edges of space as Green Lantern, where a war has been raging between those who rule with fear, and those who protect life: the Green Lantern Corps.
Click here to read the Green Lantern 3D Blu-ray Review!
Click here to discuss Green Lantern!
Producer James Tucker Discusses New “Batman: The Brave And The Bold” Episode
The World’s Finest caught up with Batman: The Brave and The Bold Producer James Tucker to discuss the latest episode of the acclaimed animated series, “Triumvirate of Terror!” The all-new episode debuts tonight, Friday, October 7th, 2011 at 7:00pm (ET) on Cartoon Network. The episode brings together Batman, Superman and Wonder Woman. Continue below for the all-new exclusive Batman: The Brave and The Bold Q & A.
The World’s Finest: To get right to it Wonder Woman, Batman and Superman….the trinity! Just how epic is this episode and how long in the making was it?
James Tucker: This episode was three seasons in the making since we werent able to use Superman and Wonder Woman for the first and second seasons due to legal reasons. In hindsight, it was probably good for the show that we couldnt use them because it forced us to stay focused on the lesser known heroes, which was our mission statement to begin with. I think if wed tried to do a Trinity episode in first season, it might have run the risk of being too pompous and reverential because we hadnt quite settled into our anything goes groove yet. Doing it in third season allowed us to focus on just letting it be a fun, action packed episode.
WF: Describe your take on the big three and how it differs from the comics and other animated interpretations.
JT: In keeping with the general tone we established for Btaman: The Brave and The Bold, we just wanted to make a fun episode where we focus on the friends aspect of the Trinitys relationship to each other. The last thing Michael [Jelenic] and I wanted to do was a Trinity episode where they bickered and sniped at each other. We wanted to establish that theyd known each other since early in their super hero careers and they relate to each other in a less formal way than they probably do with any other superhero in the DC universe. We didnt feel the need to give an edginess to how they deal with each other.
WF: Since youre handling DCs big three in this episode, was there added stress to make sure that this episode was an unquestioned home run?
JT: We didnt let doing a Trinity episode stress us out too much. I didnt feel that much pressure at this point because there had been a Trinity focused episode in Justice League Unlimited already “Deadmans Reckoning,” plus theyve appeared together in Superman/ Batman: Apocalypse, so I never felt this would have to be the penultimate Trinity episode ever. Im sure there will be more Trinity in animation and eventually live-action, so I knew we could just make it a fun romp like we usually do and explore their friendship without making it a big heavy world shattering event. The idea that appealed to us was that theyre the big three in the DC Universe but theyre also best friends, an idea that these days is usually expressed with them being at odds and kind of rude with each other. We wanted to go back to the simpler idea of them actually being friends, not frenemies, as they were for years in the earlier comic book and animated representations. That idea of characters just being friends and liking each other hasnt been done in so long that it actually seemed refreshing to us to explore.
WF: The heroes face off against Lex Luthor, Cheetah and Joker. Is it safe to assume these villains were chosen since they are seen as the iconic enemies to the big three? Did you consider switching any particular villain out for another?
JT: These three villains were the only ones we really considered using. Wonder Womans arch enemy will always be The Cheetah to me (Priscilla Rich version, of course) so she was a no-brainer. Sorry, Ares or Circe fans…but no, its the Cheetah. And Batman and Supermans greatest villains are obviously Joker and Luthor. My only regret is that Paul Giacoppos fantastically fun script was a little bit long and we had to lose some cool bits for time like a guest appearance by the entire Super Friends-era Legion of Doom in one shot and a scene of Diana Prince changing into Wonder Woman. I regret we didnt get to do a whole Wonder Woman-focused episode because there was a lot more fun Wonder Woman stuff Id have thrown into it. It would have been an easter egg fest! Anyway, a nice bit of casting was Tippi Hedren, of Alfred Hitchcocks The Birds and Marnie fame, voicing Hippolyta for us. Its always nice to see actual Hollywood royalty in the flesh and she was extremely gracious and fun to work with. And impeccably dressed as befitting a movie star and the mother of Wonder Woman!
WF: The teaser to this episode features the JLI facing off against the Legion of Doom in an epic baseball match. Care to explain the origins and inspirations to the teaser?
JT: Michael Jelenic had been pitching (har har) this teaser for a while and I finally caved and we went with it. I dont know if hed seen the cover to an old DC comic from the 1970s called Strange Stories that featured the Justice League playing baseball with a group of supervillains or not, but he kept bringing it up in story meetings. I remembered owning that comic, DC fanboy that I am, and so we ended up doing it. Its not a literal adaptation though because we just had time for it in a teaser so we did away with any explanation of why theyd be playing baseball. This is the kind of wacky thing wed never have gotten away with first or even second season, but third seasons the charm evidently. Anyway, Michael insisted on Robin being in it so the fans can either assume this teaser took place before he became Nightwing or that its our first and only appearance of Tim Drake on Batman: The Brave and The Bold. Take your pick.
WF: To wrap, can you provide some closing thoughts on this episode and why viewers should tune in when it airs?
JT: They should tune in because its the decent thing to do! Joking. They should tune in because I think its a great episode for those who have nostalgia for DCs most well-known characters as they were presented originally in comic book and early animation lore, and its also a great introduction to young and hopefully future DC fans to the world of DC comics history. Also its just a bitchin fun episode and a great way to kill 22 minutes. So there!
The all-new Batman: The Brave and The Bold episode “Triumvirate of Terror!” debuts Friday, October 7th, 2011 at 7:00pm (ET) on Cartoon Network. Continue to the Batman: The Brave and The Bold subsite for further details and media for this episode, including hi-res images and clips. Batman: The Brave and The Bold airs on Cartoon Network every Friday at 7:00pm (ET).
Stay tuned for further Batman: The Brave and The Bold updates, including exclusive updates, here soon at The World’s Finest.
Discuss this in The DC Animation Forum!
Click on the image above to view a Quicktime clip from “Green Lantern”
This October 14th, Green Lantern flies onto Blu-ray 3D Combo Pack, Blu-ray Combo Pack, DVD and Digital Download from Warner Bros. Home Entertainment Group.
Green Lantern will be available on Blu-ray 3D Combo Pack, featuring a 3D hi-definition, a hi-definition, a standard definition and an UltraViolet Digital Copy of the standard definition theatrical version of the film, for $40.99; Blu-ray Combo Pack, featuring a hi-definition, a standard definition and an UltraViolet Digital Copy of the standard definition theatrical version of the film, for $35.99; and on single disc DVD with UltraViolet Digital Copy for $28.98. The extended cut will be in hi-definition on the Blu-ray 3D Combo Pack and Blu-ray Combo Pack only.
UltraViolet Digital Copy allows consumers to download the film to a PC or Mac plus instantly stream it from a digital cloud to many computers, tablets or smartphones.
Starring Ryan Reynolds (The Proposal) in the title role, DC Comics legendary super hero soars to the edges of space as Green Lantern, where a war has been raging between those who rule with fear, and those who protect life: the Green Lantern Corps.
Click here to read the Green Lantern 3D Blu-ray Review!
Click here to discuss Green Lantern!
Video Clips, Images, Details For New Episode Of “Batman: The Brave And The Bold”
Cartoon Network has passed along the episode synopsis, three video clips, and a collection of images from the all-new Batman: The Brave and The Bold episode “Triumvirate of Terror!” The new Batman: The Brave and The Bold episode is scheduled to air Friday, October 7th, 2011 at 7:00pm (ET) on Cartoon Network. Click on the thumbnails below to view the complete library of hi-res images and the Quicktime-format video clips. Please note the first three thumbnails link to the aforementioned Quicktime video clips. The official episode description is also provided below.
Images:
Batman: The Brave and The Bold – “Triumvirate of Terror!”
Friday, October 7th, 2011 at 7:00 p.m. on Cartoon Network
Synopsis: Batman, Superman and Wonder Woman face off against their arch nemesis Lex Luthor, Joker and Cheetah who gain the upper hand by switching opponents.
Photo credit – Batman: The Brave and The Bold Warner Bros. Entertainment Inc. Batman and all related characters and elements are trademarks of and DC Comics.
Please make note of the timeslot. As of October 7th, 2011, Batman: The Brave and The Bold now airs Friday at 7:00pm (ET) on Cartoon Network.
The above content can also be found at the The World’s Finest Batman: The Brave and The Bold subsite. Batman: The Brave and The Bold airs on Cartoon Network every Friday at 7:00pm (ET).
Stay tuned for further coverage on Batman: The Brave and The Bold and Young Justice – including exclusive content and much more – right here at The World’s Finest.
Discuss this in The DC Animation Forum!
Warner Bros. Interactive Entertainment and DC Entertainment present a new animated trailer for Gotham City Imposters featuring the dual lifestyles of the Bats and Jokerz characters in Gotham City Impostors. Watch two mild-mannered neighbors face-off in their homemade Impostor outfits on a typical weeknight. Gotham City Impostors is scheduled for release early 2012 and will be available on Xbox LIVE Arcade and PlayStationNetwork, as well as for PC. Click on the thumbnail below to view the footage in the Quicktime format, along with additional press details for the title.
Gotham City Impostors is an original download-only first-person shooter where up to 12 players battle for control of an unhinged Gotham City overrun by Impostors inspired by the DC Comics characters Batman and The Joker. Gotham City Impostors is an online multiplayer game unlike any other, giving players the opportunity to rebel against conformity as they customize their own characters. Fighting for justice or creating chaos, gamers will create their very own version of the Bats or the Jokerz characters using unprecedented customization options including insane costumes, homemade gadgets and a wide range of traditional and inventive weapons. The game will feature maps and modes inspired by DC Comics Batman license.
Gotham City Impostors is scheduled for release early 2012 and will be available on Xbox LIVE Arcade and PlayStationNetwork, as well as for PC. Fans can go to www.GothamCityImpostors.com for more information and to receive updates regarding the game.
Stay tuned for further updates.
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Click on the image above to view a Quicktime clip from “Green Lantern”
This October 14th, Green Lantern flies onto Blu-ray 3D Combo Pack, Blu-ray Combo Pack, DVD and Digital Download from Warner Bros. Home Entertainment Group.
Green Lantern will be available on Blu-ray 3D Combo Pack, featuring a 3D hi-definition, a hi-definition, a standard definition and an UltraViolet Digital Copy of the standard definition theatrical version of the film, for $40.99; Blu-ray Combo Pack, featuring a hi-definition, a standard definition and an UltraViolet Digital Copy of the standard definition theatrical version of the film, for $35.99; and on single disc DVD with UltraViolet Digital Copy for $28.98. The extended cut will be in hi-definition on the Blu-ray 3D Combo Pack and Blu-ray Combo Pack only.
UltraViolet Digital Copy allows consumers to download the film to a PC or Mac plus instantly stream it from a digital cloud to many computers, tablets or smartphones.
Starring Ryan Reynolds (The Proposal) in the title role, DC Comics legendary super hero soars to the edges of space as Green Lantern, where a war has been raging between those who rule with fear, and those who protect life: the Green Lantern Corps.
Click here to read the Green Lantern 3D Blu-ray Review!
The World’s Finest Interviews Greg Weisman, Series Producer For “Young Justice”
Young Justice Series Producer Greg Weisman sat down last month with The World’s Finest to talk about what’s coming down the pipeline for the junior heroes. Please note this interview was conducted before September 16th, 2011. Click on the image below to be taken to the interview.
Additionally, an all-new episode of Young Justice debuts tomorrow, October 7th, 2011 at 6:30pm (ET) on Cartoon Network. The details for the episode are as follows below.
Young Justice
Friday, October 7th, 2011 at 6:30pm (ET) – “#13 Alpha Male”
Already exhausted and rattled after a home turf invasion of The Cave, The Team learns that Aqualad their friend and leader withheld vital information that put them all at risk. When Batman sends the Team and new den-mother Captain Marvel to India to investigate bizarre reports of armed animals attacking human beings, can Aqualad pull his fractured Team together?
Young Justice airs Fridays at 6:30pm (ET) on Cartoon Network. Stay tuned for further updates and content, including an exclusive new interview with Young Justice‘s Brandon Vietti, here soon at The World’s Finest.
Discuss this in The DC Animation Forum!
Click on the image above to view a Quicktime clip from “Green Lantern”
This October 14th, Green Lantern flies onto Blu-ray 3D Combo Pack, Blu-ray Combo Pack, DVD and Digital Download from Warner Bros. Home Entertainment Group.
Green Lantern will be available on Blu-ray 3D Combo Pack, featuring a 3D hi-definition, a hi-definition, a standard definition and an UltraViolet Digital Copy of the standard definition theatrical version of the film, for $40.99; Blu-ray Combo Pack, featuring a hi-definition, a standard definition and an UltraViolet Digital Copy of the standard definition theatrical version of the film, for $35.99; and on single disc DVD with UltraViolet Digital Copy for $28.98. The extended cut will be in hi-definition on the Blu-ray 3D Combo Pack and Blu-ray Combo Pack only.
UltraViolet Digital Copy allows consumers to download the film to a PC or Mac plus instantly stream it from a digital cloud to many computers, tablets or smartphones.
Starring Ryan Reynolds (The Proposal) in the title role, DC Comics legendary super hero soars to the edges of space as Green Lantern, where a war has been raging between those who rule with fear, and those who protect life: the Green Lantern Corps.
Click here to discuss Green Lantern!
Warner Home Video Releases New Clip From “Batman: Year One” Animated Feature
Warner Home Video has released a new video clip from Batman: Year One, the upcoming animated feature based on the acclaimed graphic novel of the same name. The clip below features Batman trying to avoid capture by the Gotham City Police. Click on the thumbnail image below to view the clip, available in the High Definition Quicktime format. Press details are also included.
The all-new, PG-13 rated film arrives October 18, 2011 from Warner Home Video as a Blu-ray Combo Pack and DVD ($19.98 SRP), On Demand and for Download.
There is also an opportunity to download-for-purchase in an early window starting October 11 through iTunes, Xbox Live, Zune, VUDU HD Movies and Video Unlimited on the PlayStation Network & Sony Entertainment Network.
Warner Home Video will present a DC Universe Animated Original Movie panel at New York Comic Con on Friday, October 14. Among those participating are executive producer Bruce Timm, dialogue/casting director Andrea Romano and the perennial choice of Batman, Kevin Conroy. The panel, slated for 3:00-4:00 p.m. in the IGN, will feature the premiere of both the Paul Dini-scripted Catwoman animated short and the trailer for Justice League: Doom, as well as discussion of those two projects and Batman: Year One.
Batman: Year One is based on the landmark 1987 DC Comics titles from 12-time Eisner Award winner Frank Miller and illustrator David Mazzucchelli. The film depicts young Bruce Waynes return to Gotham City in his first attempts to fight injustice as a costumed vigilante. The playboy billionaire chooses the guise of a giant bat to combat crime, creates an early bond with a young Lieutenant James Gordon (who is already battling corruption from inside the police department), inadvertently plays a role in the birth of Catwoman, and helps to bring down a crooked political system that infests Gotham.
Primetime television stars Bryan Cranston (Breaking Bad), Ben McKenzie (Southland, The O.C.), Eliza Dushku (Dollhouse, Buffy the Vampire Slayer) and Katee Sackhoff (Battlestar Galactica) provide the core voices for Batman: Year One. Three-time Emmy Award winner Cranston gives voice to young Jim Gordon, while McKenzie makes his animated voiceover debut as Bruce Wayne/Batman. Fanboy favorites Dushku and Sackhoff fill the roles of Selina Kyle/Catwoman and Detective Sarah Essen, respectively. Alex Rocco (The Godfather) is the voice of crime lord Carmine Falcone.
Animation master Bruce Timm is executive producer of Batman: Year One. Directors are Lauren Montgomery (Superman/Batman: Apocalypse) and Sam Liu (All-Star Superman) from a script penned by Academy Award nominee Tab Murphy (Gorillas in the Mist, Superman/Batman: Apocalypse).
The above clip is also available at the The World’s Finest Batman: Year One subsite.
Details on the home video release of Batman: Year One, including a rundown of Blu-ray extras, can be found here, along with the official trailer. Warner Home Video is expected to cross-promote the release of Batman: Year One with Batman: Arkham City, the latest entry in the Batman videogame franchise from Warner Bros. Interactive Entertainment, which is also scheduled for an October 18th, 2011 release.
A co-production of Warner Premiere, Warner Bros. Home Entertainment Group, DC Entertainment and Warner Bros. Animation, the direct-to-video Batman: Year One animated feature debuts October 18th, 2011 on Blu-ray, DVD, OnDemand and for Download from Warner Home Video. Stay tuned for further updates here soon at The Worlds Finest.
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Teletoon Releases October 2011 Episode Schedule Details For “Young Justice” Series
Teletoon has provided the following schedule details for episodes of the Young Justice animated series slated to air on the Canadian network during October 2011. Young Justice premiered last month on the Canadian network during the Superfan Friday programming block. Please note the episode details listed below are provided by Teletoon.
Friday, October 7th, 2011 at 7:00pm (ET)- “Schooled”
Superboy’s anger over his non-relationship with Superman is getting out of control.
Friday, October 14th, 2011 at 7:00pm (ET) “Infiltrator”
Artemis faces an uphill battle trying to win over her new teammates as she tries to fill Red Arrow’s boots on a mission he initiated.
Friday, October 21st, 2011 at 7:00pm (ET) “Denial”
When the team investigates the disappearance of Kent Nelson, the scientific-minded Wally West is forced to confront his disbelief in magic.
Friday, October 28th, 2011 at 7:00pm (ET) “Downtime”
After a disastrous mission with the team, Aqualad returns to Atlantis to choose between a life on the surface world … or one beneath the waves with the Aquagirl of his dreams.
New episodes of Young Justice will debut Friday nights at 7:00pm (ET) on the Teletoon Superfan Friday programming block, and will then re-air the following Sunday at 8:30am (ET). Young Justice will also air Saturdays at 1:00am (ET) as part of the Teletoon At Night programming block.
Additionally, for further details on the Young Justice animated series, please continue to the The World’s Finest Young Justice micro-site. The site features bios, episode and comic details, along with exclusive behind-the-scenes content and more.
Stay tuned for further schedule updates and coverage on Young Justice here soon at The World’s Finest.
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“Beware The Batman” CGI Animated Series Coming For 2013, “DC Nation” Updates
Sam Register confirmed the title of the next animated Batman series, due in 2013. Register, executive vice president for creative affairs at Warner Bros. Animation, closed the MIP Junior conference in Cannes, France on Sunday, October 2nd, 2011, with a keynote address on upcoming Warner Bros. Animation plans. MIP Junior is an intensive two-day conference agenda of debates, interactive workshops, pitching and matchmaking sessions that update executives and consumers on the latest developments in kids entertainment. With a new Batman theatrical feature slated for next year, Register says it was synergy to bring about a new Batman animated series.
The next Batman animated series, debuting in 2013, is titled Beware the Batman. According to Register, the CGI animated series will spotlight a classic-looking Batman teaming up with a gun-toting Alfred Pennyworth and a female ninja sidekick. Beware the Batman is executive-produced by Glen Murakami, and will explore the mythology’s more obscure villains, such as Professor Pyg, but also won’t shy away from featuring some of the more well-known Batman foes.
Concerning villains slated to appear in the series, Register commented, “We went in deeper into the villain library and pulled out some other villains. We didn’t want to do another Joker story…there’s too many of them.”
“We just needed to do something new, so we’re starting off with new villains,” he concluded.
In the series, Batman will team up with a younger female sidekick named Katana. During the keynote, Register added that Katana will fill the sidekick role, but won’t be a replacement for Robin.
“Katana is gonna be his new Robin, but not necessarily,” Register said.
Register also revealed new details about the forthcoming DC Nation block during his keynote address. Register states Cartoon Network has a three-year deal with Warner Bros. Animation and DC Comics to make material for the upcoming block. Highlights include Aardman Animation creating new claymation Batman shorts, Plastic Man animated shorts, and the creator behind My Little Pony: Friendship is Magic working on a series of animated shorts teaming Wonder Girl, Batgirl, Supergirl called Super Best Friends Forever. Additionally, there is also a series of Doom Patrol animated shorts in production. The block will also host a series of behind-the-scenes videos, special interviews, and much more. DC Nation, slated to run for at least three years on Cartoon Network, will debut in Spring 2012 with Young Justice and Green Lantern: The Animated Series.
Stay tuned for further updates, including exclusive content and much more, right here at The World’s Finest.
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Josh Keaton Talks About Voicing Hal Jordan For “Green Lantern: The Animated Series”
While recently discussing his latest project – the new Spider-Man: Edge of Time video game set to hit all major home consoles on October 4th, 2011 from Activision, Beenox, and Marvel Entertainment – actor Josh Keaton took a few moments to talk about his upcoming stint as Hal Jordan in the forthcoming Green Lantern: The Animated Series with The World’s Finest. Green Lantern: The Animated Series is set to debut on Cartoon Network with a special preview episode in November 2011 before settling down into a regular timeslot in early 2012. Continue below for Keaton’s thoughts on Hal Jordan.
The World’s Finest: Youll be tackling a whole different type of hero when Green Lantern: The Animated Series debuts for a one-hour special in November 2011. Care to fill us in on Hal Jordans space adventures and how he differs from Spider-Man?
Josh Keaton: The show’s going to center around Hal and Kilowog (buddy cop vibe). While Earth will figure into the show, it’s not an Earth based show. The universe is the limit. Spidey’s a neighborhood hero, Hal’s got a freaking massive neighborhood. I see Hal as funny, but not Spidey/jokey funny. I still see him as a military man with a certain amount of military bearing. He’s also a bit more comfortable in his own shoes than Peter.
WF: How true will the Green Lantern cartoon play to the comic mythos? And what of the CGI animation? Do you think itll work for a cartoon such as this?
JK: It’s going to pull from different parts and there will be some new things but the comics are definitely the backbone for the show. I’ve been seeing some final renders and the CG looks great. I can’t wait to watch it in hi-def.
WF: Comparing Green Lantern to Spider-Man is like apples to oranges. Do you find them to be possibly two sides of the same coins, or on completely different ends of the spectrum. Do you find that you have to stretch a little when playing Hal as opposed to a character like Spider-Man (or even Flash in Justice League: Crisis on Two Earths)?
JK: They’re of the same coin but Hal’s definitely different from Spidey. Spidey really tends to think things through whereas Hal has this pretty much unfailing instinct that keeps him out of hot water. I personally tend to approach problems the Spidey way so it was a change to play a character as immediately sure of everything he does as Hal. The humor was also a bit different to pull off. Spider-man is a ham even when you take away spider-pig and Spider-ham. Hal is drier and more off the cuff. Again, I tend to do things more the Spidey way so Hal’s humor took a little thinking.
WF: Your voice work on Green Lantern sounds noticeably different than your work on The Spectacular Spider-Man and Spider-Man: Edge of Time. Is it a plus to be able to stretch and play such characters in such different situations (like Hal in space or Spider-Man time-traveling to save his own life)?
JK: Without a doubt. It’s always fun to get cast in something completely different from what I usually do. Yes, I’ve voiced several superheroes and Hal is a superhero, but most of my roles have been younger (teenage) roles. Hal’s a man. He’s taller than me and has the squarest jaw I’ve everervoiced. I’m also working on a new to Nickelodeon show called Winx Club in which I play an evil wizard. It’s definitely a plus to get to play parts different from my usual. It keeps things fresh and keeps the imagination sharp.
The complete interview is available to view at sister site Marvel Animation Age, along with further additional content on Spider-Man: Edge of Time. Spider-Man: Edge of Time is set to hit all major consoles – Playstation 3, XBox360, Wii, NintendoDS – on October 4th, 2011 from Marvel Entertainment and Activision.
Click here for further details on Green Lantern: The Animated Series. As announced last week, Warner Bros. Television and Warner Bros. Animation have set a special panel for Green Lantern: The Animated Series at New York Comic Con 2011. Information is as follows.
SATURDAY, OCTOBER 15
* 10:3011:30 a.m. Green Lantern: The Animated Series World Premiere Screening and Conversation with Bruce Timm World-renowned producer, artist, animator and Comic Con favorite Bruce Timm (Batman: The Animated Series) will be on hand to unveil Green Lantern: The Animated Series, his latest television project from Warner Bros. Animation, coming soon to Cartoon Network. New York Comic Con attendees will be treated to the world premiere screening of this all-new CG action-adventure animated series, and will take part in a moderated Q&A with an animation icon. Room 1A10
* 1:302:00 p.m. Green Lantern: The Animated Series Signing at the DC Comics booth #1254
Based upon the DC Comics super hero, Green Lantern: The Animated Series is an all-new CG animated action series from Warner Bros Animation and overseen by world-renowned producer, artist and animator Bruce Timm. Stay tuned for further updates on Green Lantern: The Animated Series here soon at The World’s Finest.
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Click here for a preview of ‘Green Lantern: The Animated Series!’
Artist Christopher Jones Looks Closer At, After-Thoughts On “Young Justice” Issue #8
Young Justice comic series artist Christopher Jones provides The World’s Finest with a closer look at Young Justice issue #8, the latest issue of the monthly series published by DC Comics now available to own. Jones breaks down the issue, providing his thoughts and taking a looking closer at certain aspects of the issue. Click on the images below to check out the special comic breakdown, available exclusively at The World’s Finest. Young Justice #8 is now available both in print and digitally.
Further details on Young Justice #8 are available here. Additionally, Click here for more with Young Justice comic series artist Christopher Jones.
Additionally, an all-new episode of Young Justice debuts tonight at 6:30pm (ET) on Cartoon Network. The details for the episode are as follows below.
Young Justice
Friday, September 30th, 2011 at 6:30pm (ET) – “#12 Home Front”
When The Cave itself is attacked, can Artemis and Robin the two teens without super-powers save the Team (or even themselves) from the unknown invaders?
A new episode of Batman: The Brave and The Bold also debuts tonight at 6:00pm (ET) on Cartoon Network. Details on the new episode, “Sword of the Atom!,” can be found here.
Stay tuned for further updates and content, including exclusive new interviews with Young Justice‘s Greg Weisman and Brandon Vietti, here soon at The World’s Finest.
Click here to discuss Young Justice #8!
World’s Finest Online: A Comprehensive Guide to the DCAU
World’s Finest Online, a premier resource for fans of the DC Animated Universe (DCAU), is a site that truly understands and values your passion. We offer a wealth of information, news, and updates about the beloved animated series and movies based on DC Comics’ iconic characters. Since its inception, World’s Finest Online has been dedicated to providing detailed content about the DCAU, making it a destination for enthusiasts like you.
Origins and Evolution of World’s Finest Online
Dcanimated.com began as a fan-driven project dedicated to documenting the DCAU. The site has grown significantly, offering comprehensive coverage of all aspects of the DC Animated Universe. It features detailed episode guides, character biographies, and behind-the-scenes insights, making it an invaluable resource for fans.
Extensive Coverage of DCAU Series and Movies
World’s Finest Online provides in-depth information on all major DCAU series, including classics like Batman: The Animated Series, Superman: The Animated Series, and Justice League. Each series is explored thoroughly, with episode summaries, reviews, and notable quotes. The site also covers DCAU movies, such as Batman: Mask of the Phantasm and Justice League: The New Frontier, offering detailed analyses and production notes.
Staying current with the latest developments in the DCAU is easy with World’s Finest Online. The site regularly updates its news section with announcements about new releases, upcoming projects, and special events. Fans can stay informed about voice cast reunions, special edition releases, and convention appearances related to the DCAU.
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World’s Finest Online features exclusive interviews with key figures behind the DCAU. Creators like Bruce Timm, Paul Dini, and Alan Burnett share their insights and experiences, offering fans a behind-the-scenes look at the making of these iconic shows and movies. These interviews provide valuable context and deepen the appreciation for the creative efforts that brought the DCAU to life.
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The site fosters a vibrant community of DCAU fans. Visitors can participate in forums, share fan art, and contribute to discussions about their favorite shows and characters. World’s Finest Online also highlights fan projects and provides a platform for fans to showcase their creativity and passion for the DCAU.
Comprehensive Episode Guides and Character Biographies
One of the standout features of dcanimated.com is its extensive episode guides. Each episode of the DCAU series is meticulously cataloged, with summaries, key moments, and notable quotes. Additionally, the site offers detailed biographies of major and minor characters, providing background information and character development insights.
World’s Finest Online boasts a rich collection of archival content, including video clips, image galleries, and soundtracks from various DCAU series and movies. The site also features special sections dedicated to unique aspects of the DCAU, such as iconic moments, crossover episodes, and thematic explorations.
Where to Watch the DCAU
World’s Finest Online provides information on where fans can watch their favorite DCAU series and movies. The site includes links to streaming platforms like HBO Max and details about physical media releases. This makes it easy for fans to enjoy the DCAU’s extensive content library.
World’s Finest Online is an essential resource for any fan of the DC Animated Universe. With its comprehensive coverage, exclusive content, and active community, the site continues to celebrate and preserve the legacy of the DCAU. Fans can rely on World’s Finest Online for accurate information, engaging content, and the latest updates in DC animated storytelling.
About the World’s Finest Online Creators
World’s Finest Online was created by dedicated fans of the DCAU. Their passion and commitment have made the site a trusted source of news and information. By providing detailed and engaging content, they have ensured that the DCAU’s legacy continues to thrive.