28 June 2019

#McGhoster: Support for The Humane League's Animal Welfare Campaign Surges, as Consumers Make a Stand on Twitter

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Sending ghost emojis and using #McGhoster, the public are calling out McDonald's on Twitter for not signing the Better Chicken Commitment.
Sending ghost emojis and using #McGhoster, the public are calling out McDonald's on Twitter for not signing the Better Chicken Commitment. (PRNewsfoto/The Humane League)
The Humane League's #McGhoster campaign is acting as a wake-up call to the fast-food industry leader McDonald's, with more than 21,000 signatures already on the petition.

Thousands of conscious consumers across the US and the UK have taken to Twitter to grab the attention of McDonald's CEO Steve Easterbrook. Sending ghost emojis and using #McGhoster, the public are calling out McDonald's for not signing the Better Chicken Commitment, and criticising them for 'ghosting' their animal welfare responsibilities, unlike their competitors.

Public protests, billboards, and ad vans have been popping up across the UK to further spread the word and build as much pressure as possible; followed by an online brand-jacking film that's racked up over 700,000 views already (on Facebook and YouTube).

The Video


McDonald's is one of the biggest restaurant chains in the world with a net income of $5.877B. Yet, as companies like Pret A Manger are making concrete, meaningful changes to chicken welfare, McDonald's is lagging behind; despite previously facing criticism for the treatment of its chickens. What's more, The Humane League argues that eating poor chickens raised in cramped and confined factory farms have potential health risks for the public.

"Although McDonald's has taken progressive steps on some animal welfare issues, the truth is that when the suffering of millions upon millions of chickens—the most numerous animals in McDonald's supply chain—is at stake, McDonald's fails to live up to the upstanding image it portrays," said Pru Elliott, Head of Campaigns at The Humane League UK.
#McGhoster van
#McGhoster van
The Humane League is calling on McDonald's consumers and the wider public to demand improvements to its supply chain, and appreciates any support people are able to give to shine a light on their bad practice.

  • You can sign the petition here



"Spider-Man: Far From Home" to Become the First Sony Pictures Film to Be Released in the Panoramic, 270-degree ScreenX Format

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"Spider-Man: Far From Home" - Poster
"Spider-Man: Far From Home" - Poster
CJ 4DPLEX, together with Sony Pictures, announced today "Spider-Man: Far From Home" will be released in the 270-degree panoramic ScreenX format, swinging into theaters around the globe beginning July 2nd.

"Spider-Man: Far From Home" marks the first Sony Pictures film to be converted into ScreenX. Past collaborations between CJ 4DPLEX and Sony Pictures include the Academy Award winning animated feature "Spider-Man: Into the Spider-Verse" in 4DX - another immersive cinema technology of CJ 4DPLEX that features motion-based seating accompanied by a range of environmental effects. 



  • In addition to ScreenX, "Spider-Man: Far From Home" will also be available in the multi-sensory 4DX format.
"We are very excited to share Spider-Man: Far From Home with audiences around the world and have them experience the anticipated film expanded onto the side walls of the ScreenX auditorium," said JongRyul Kim, CEO of CJ 4DPLEX. "Fans will be blown away by the immersive and visual experience of ScreenX and we look forward to bringing more of these exciting cinematic experiences to audiences in the future with Sony Pictures."
"We couldn't be happier in expanding our partnership with CJ 4DPLEX to bring Spider-Man: Far From Home to audiences worldwide in the innovative ScreenX format," said Scott Sherr, EVP, WW Theatrical Distribution of Sony Pictures. "We trust the capabilities of ScreenX to offer an incredibly creative and immersive visual boost to the journey of Spider-Man, and we look forward to entertaining audiences through this unique and exciting cinematic technology."
"Spider-Man: Far From Home" in the ScreenX format will have Spider-Man swinging through the cobbled streets and rustic building tops of Europe, battling foes and juggling the day-time struggles of being a high school teenager. 

Audiences will experience Spider-Man in an all-new environment inside the auditorium where sequences of Spider-Man swinging from building to building will be expanded onto the side walls of the theater, giving the audiences the thrill of seeing Spider-Man flashing through the air from all three screens. 


  • Fight sequences will also be extended, offering a unique viewing perspective on the action that plays out on the panoramic screens.

About Spider-Man: Far From Home

Following the events of Avengers: Endgame, Spider-Man must step up to take on new threats in a world that has changed forever.

  • Directed by Jon Watts. Written by Chris McKenna & Erik Sommers. 
  • Based on the MARVEL Comic Book by Stan Lee and Steve Ditko.
  • Produced by Kevin Feige and Amy Pascal. Louis D'Esposito, Victoria Alonso, 
  • Thomas M. Hammel, Eric Hauserman Carroll, Rachel O'Connor, Stan Lee, Avi Arad and Matt Tolmach serve as executive producers. 
  • The film stars Tom Holland, Samuel L. Jackson, Zendaya, Cobie Smulders, Jon Favreau, JB Smoove, Jacob Batalon, Martin Starr, with Marisa Tomei and Jake Gyllenhaal.

The Trailer:


SOURCE: CJ 4DPLEX


26 June 2019

The Most Famous Car In The World: RM Sotheby's Presents James Bond Aston Martin DB5 [Video Included]

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1965 Aston Martin DB5 "Bond Car"
1965 Aston Martin DB5 "Bond Car" (image via RM Sotheby's)
RM Sotheby's has announced "the most famous car in the world" and the most iconic Aston Martin of all time to lead 'An Evening with Aston Martin', a special single-marque sale at the company's Monterey auction on 15 August. RM Sotheby's will present a James Bond 1965 Aston Martin DB5, one of just three surviving examples commissioned in period by Eon Productions and fitted with MI6 Q Branch modifications.

In 1963, two near-identical cars were built by Aston Martin and loaned to Eon Productions for the filming of Goldfinger; one for stunt driving and chase sequences, and the other for interior shots and close-ups, to be equipped with functional modifications by special effects guru John Stears. 


As legendary weapons-master Q would explain to 007, the DB5 was equipped with front and rear hydraulic over-rider rams on the bumpers, a Browning .30 caliber machine gun in each fender, wheel-hub mounted tire-slashers, a raising rear bullet-proof screen, an in-dash radar tracking scope, oil, caltrop and smoke screen dispensers, revolving license plates, a passenger-seat ejection system, a telephone in the driver's door to communicate with MI6 headquarters, and a hidden compartment under the driver's seat containing several weapons.

The smash success of Goldfinger led producers to order two more DB5s; chassis nos. DB5/2008/R, the example on offer by RM Sotheby's, and DB5/2017/R. The two cars were fitted with all Bond modifications and shipped to the U.S. for promotional duties for Thunderball.

Reached through his son, Stephane Connery, legendary actor Sean Connery, who portrayed James Bond on film in both Goldfinger and Thunderball said: "These DB5s are amazing – I remember the Furka Pass tire shredding as well as the promotional events with these cars – they have become increasingly iconic since Goldfinger and Thunderball, in fact I bought a very fine DB5 myself relatively recently."
Under current ownership, the DB5 has undergone a well-documented restoration by Aston Martin Heritage Specialists Roos Engineering, with all thirteen Bond modifications refurbished to function as originally built. 


  • One of three surviving examples, having had just three private owners over 50 years, the DB5 offers a highly desirable acquisition for the serious marque collector…or secret agent (Estimate: $4,000,000 - $6,000,000).

The Video:



SOURCE: RM Sotheby's

25 June 2019

How Law Is Portrayed In Film Culture

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Law books
Law books (Photo by Mikhail Pavstyuk on Unsplash)

When it comes to film culture, directors and writers alike want to spice it up. To make it as gripping as possible. Juicing up the storylines, adding massive twists to it. And every case needs to be pushed through immediately.

But is that reality?

Different Specialisms

Well, some of it is and other times it really just misses the mark. Typically you won’t be told the difference between what each Lawyer does. Which means we can have a distinct lack of knowledge if we ever a) need a need a lawyer ourselves or b) want to go into law in the future. 

Over the years, we’ve been given more of a glimpse into the different specialties, which has been really interesting for the typical viewer. Suits really made a display of the different specialties that were possible. From injury lawyers, not unlike Robinette Law, to Lewis Litt, the corporate finance wizard. And that makes it more interesting.

But there are other times where one specialist jumps ships and lands somewhere else. Things that probably wouldn’t typically happen in the real world. After all, why spend years learning to be one thing, and then dabbling in another (with a lot less knowledge)?

Rich Man Poor Man

In the world of movie lawyers, they are very, very rich or they have an office about a Chinese takeaway and look like they need a good nap. In reality, there is a lot in between those two things. But for entertainment reasons, it is better to have an underdog that does extraordinary things, or a wealthy, successful lawyer deeply embroiled in a scary and challenging world.

Let’s take a look at a few average salaries for some different specialisms.
  • Corporate Lawyer - $98,823
  • Criminal Lawyer - $51,810 public defenders, $115k+ at a firm
  • Personal Injury Lawyer - $73,000
But those are the median salary. But, as you can see, while there are a top and a bottom of the pay scale, there is a lot of space in between that too. But, an ‘average joe’ isn't exciting enough for the big screen. However, you’ll see them much more often.

Time

It can seem like a case is built in a matter of days, by a trust private investigator and a few lucky breaks. But, Erin Brockovich had it a little bit more correct. They showed that it took over 4 years (and more) of contact people, research, some lucky breaks and more sleepless nights than anyone should have to deal with.

As we live in a consumer society, we expect everything quickly delivered to us in a neat recyclable box. But that isn’t the case. To truly put an airtight case together, you are looking at years. If you consider that the FBI and Police often spend years building cases, it would make sense that in order to finish the job, the lawyers would need all of that information, plus their own findings, and everything from the opposition too. So instead we get the montage scene of the leading players sitting around the table reading book after book looking for the precedent that will play into their favor when they take it to court. And, perhaps if we knew how long it really took it wouldn’t feel as punchy but does that devalue the work that real lawyers do? Maybe just a little. It doesn’t make it less entertaining, though.

Anyone Can Do It

Well… maybe. Legally Blonde anyone? It is a great film, it’s easy to watch, has some beautiful punchy moments and has a lot of feel good to it. But, it is essentially taking what might be seen as a ‘less than clever’ person and turning them into a high-flying lawyer. And, it inspired millions of people actually to apply to law school. Which is great.

A big focus of the film was the fact she couldn’t do anything but study, and that is about as close to the law as the movie really gets. To get into the great schools, you need to put in all the hours you can for those excellent scores.

It isn’t about fitting in, it is about standing out, and Elle Woods does that. If you consider just how many people are applying to the elite firms, then you need to really be something special. High scores, an impressive specialist skill, or a personality that people are always expecting.

Elitism

In a few films, and TV series you will find that many of the big players look down on other staff because of where they went to school, who studied with, or where the finish in their class, it can be pretty brutal. But the truth is that in all walks of life there will be some elitism. People don't have to like you, and in an environment where who you are, your family and your education matter - that does get worse. So there is a real aspect of elitism, but you will find that in every office.

Courtroom

We have all watched the passionate closing arguments, and you want your chosen person to win the battle. You want them to get their client off scott-free. Even if you know that the person is guilty. Or, you want them, as the prosecution to really get them the time that they deserve.

The truth is that if you were to get so dramatic, you would likely be shut down - and fast. There won’t be something that dramatic when you are aiming to get someone sent to prison - regardless of the crime. And, some cases are more high profile than others. They are the ones that fill the media - so lawyers must correctly conduct themselves.

What the movies and TV do get right, on all fronts is the passion. Lawyers have a passion for what they do. They want to get to the bottom of things. They want to get justice for the public or their private clients. While the money is excellent, the principals and reasoning are so much more. Lawyers have a fire in their belly, to do the right thing, and that is what makes both the real-life and fictional characters so damn cool.

"Cover of Future" Boosts Global Awareness on Climate Change with Art

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The original "Cover of Future" displayed at Tam The Palace of Tam Chuc Temple in Kim Bang, Ha Nam Province, Vietnam during 2019 UN Vesak festival
The original "Cover of Future" displayed at Tam The Palace of Tam Chuc Temple in Kim Bang, Ha Nam Province, Vietnam during 2019 UN Vesak festival
Scientists warn there are only a dozen years before millions of people experience the risks of drought, floods, extreme heat and poverty due to climate change (more details here). 

  • This warning was also announced loud and clear to world leaders, Buddhist leaders, and Buddhists around the world at the United Nation's 2019 Vesak Festival through one single painting.
Called the "Cover of Future", Vietnamese artist Nguyen Thi Kim Duc used traditional Vietnamese silk, Van Gogh inspired water colors, soft but bold strokes, together with deep and lifeless colours to paint a dying tree, partly submerged in sea water. This painting depicts the devastating results of climate change - a world without green trees, animals and humans.

Using a simple painting style, Mrs. Nguyen wanted the artwork to pass from "heart to heart", relaying her love for the environment, like in Chinese philosopher Lao Tzu's words: "People rely on land, land relies on God, God relies on religion, religion relies on nature". She also wanted people to realize that the planet can only be saved if they change their wasteful and polluting habits.

105 copies of this painting were given to the heads of states and leaders of Buddhism from over 100 countries who attended attend the Vesak celebrations. They include Buddhist leaders such as Professor, Dr. Phra Brahmapundit - Chairman of the International Council for the Day of Vesak (ICDV), Mr. Nguyen Manh Hung - Minister of Information and Communication of Vietnam, Ryan Giggs - Coach of the Welsh National Football Team, the Prime Minister of Nepal, the President of Bhutan's Senate, and Sang Ji Zha Xi - Deputy Secretary General of the Chinese Buddhist Church. They were all very sympathetic and touched upon receiving the painting.
"Through the "Cover of Future, I want to remind world leaders about their responsibility of preserving our world. As the decision-makers, they must take the lead in this fight to spread the message of taking responsibility to protect the environment to their people and if they don't take action straight away, the world will end. I want to see them hang this picture in their living room, so they can be reminded of their duty daily," said artist Nguyen Thi Kim Duc.
Artist Nguyen Thi Kim Duc - A Vietnamese businesswoman who wants to see a green future and succeeded in captivating world leaders' attention on this issue at the 2019 UN Vesak festival
Artist Nguyen Thi Kim Duc - A Vietnamese businesswoman who wants to see a green future and succeeded in captivating world leaders' attention on this issue at the 2019 UN Vesak festival

About the Artist

Nguyen Thi Km Duc currently serves as the Director of the Institute of Human Resources – HV Talent and the Chairman of the board of HTD Media Joint Stock Company. She also founded Butta, the first social network for the Buddhist community in Vietnam.

Mrs. Nguyen's passion for the environment is a result of her father's influence. Her father is the well-known Vietnamese author Nguyen Son Dong who wrote the famous novel "Xu Doai May Trang" and many Vietnamese poems. Mrs. Nguyen said her father's poem "The Freshness To Life" shaped her passion in helping preserve the world humans live in.
"On a block of wood this afternoon
Raindrops were so small
It pained my heart
But the forest was vast
People's immensity as well,
Please join me!
For evergreen forest
The freshness to life
"

  • Mrs. Nguyen hopes that "Cover of Future" will be considered as a brand ambassador for our environment and anti-climate change, and hopefully be present around the world to promote the Green Planet protection in the future.


SOURCE: HTD Media

24 June 2019

Cuddle Your Candidate Tonight! Primary Pals Plush Dolls Featuring The Top Democratic Candidates Launches Just In Time For The Primary Debates

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"You can be proud of who you are supporting by having your Primary Pal on your desk, in your home, or anywhere else you may go."
"You can be proud of who you are supporting by having your Primary Pal on your desk, in your home, or anywhere else you may go."
Build Dolls, Not Walls… that's the motto of one veteran toymaker who is set to launch Primary Pals, a humorous plush collection featuring the top six front-running Democratic primary candidates just days before the first Democratic Presidential debate on June 26th. 

Developed by Neal Hoffman, a Shark Tank veteran and entrepreneur, the new plush collection features candidates like Ridin' with Biden and Bernie on a Journey and 'campaigns' for your support as it launches exclusively on Kickstarter today.
"With Primary Pals we are looking to lighten the mood and at the same time add a hint of playfulness and humor to the serious political climate currently blanketing the United States," states Neal Hoffman, a long-time toy industry executive and entrepreneur. 
Hoffman also sees the dolls as another way to show support for your candidate beyond the standard buttons and bumper stickers and developed the entire product line to most accurately reflect each candidate's personality in a fun and engaging way.

Featured in the collection are the top six candidates by most recent polling, and each dubbed with an amusing and friendly nickname, including:

  • Ridin' with Biden
  • Bernie on a Journey
  • My Buddy Beto
  • Mayor Pete in the Street
  • Courageous Kamala Harris
  • Persistent Elizabeth Warren
Hoffman has set a funding goal of $20,020 to support production for the line, which will be shipped this fall. Voters can purchase their favorite Primary Pals candidate for $25 each or a special collector's edition for $30, exclusive to Kickstarter supporters. The complete Primary Pals collection is also available for $100.

Once the Kickstarter campaign is completed, Primary Pals will be available for purchase on the Primary Pals website (coming soon) where 5% of the proceeds will be donated to the candidates' election funds based on the sales of each doll. To make it even more interesting, the donation will increase to 10% of proceeds to the candidate who sells the most dolls on Kickstarter.

The Candidates:

Bernie on a Journey
Bernie on a Journey (image via Kickstarter)
My Buddy Beto
My Buddy Beto (image via Kickstarter)
Ridin' with Biden
Ridin' with Biden (image via Kickstarter)
Mayor Pete in the Street
Mayor Pete in the Street (image via Kickstarter)
Courageous Kamala Harris
Courageous Kamala Harris (image via Kickstarter)
Persistent Elizabeth Warren
Persistent Elizabeth Warren (image via Kickstarter)
In addition to each individual product, a collector's edition will be available for most candidates in the line, which includes unique features including variations in the objects representing each candidate. 

  • For fans of Cory Booker, Amy Klobuchar, Kirsten Gillibrand or the many other Democratic contenders, Hoffman has said he will add additional candidates based on demand and feedback on the Primary Pals Facebook page.
For Republican fans, Hoffman has hinted of "Trump vs. Democratic Presidential Candidate" Battle Pack in timing with the 2020 presidential election.

  • The Primary Pals Kickstarter campaign is now live. Stay tuned for Primary Pals social media accounts to launch across multiple platforms.
Build Dolls, Not Walls
Build Dolls, Not Walls (image via Kickstarter)

SOURCE: Primary Pals

21 June 2019

Anime Expo 2019 Thrills Fans Of Japanese Pop Culture During Four-Day Show In Los Angeles

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Drawing more than 350,000 attendees from across the world Anime Expo, the largest anime event held in North America each year, prepares to welcome some of the most passionate Japanese pop culture fans to the Los Angeles Convention Center July 4-7.
Drawing more than 350,000 attendees from across the world Anime Expo, the largest anime event held in North America each year, prepares to welcome some of the most passionate Japanese pop culture fans to the Los Angeles Convention Center July 4-7.
Drawing more than 350,000 attendees from across the world Anime Expo (AX), the largest anime event held in North America each year, once again welcomes some of the most passionate Japanese pop culture fans to the Los Angeles Convention Center July 4-7, including a special Pre-Show Night on July 3. 

In its 28th year, AX is the preeminent event featuring the newest anime films, television series, fashion, video games, manga, dance, music concerts, exhibitors and exclusive convention merchandise, all combined to deliver unforgettable experiences to fans of anime and Japanese pop culture.
"We are super excited with the AX 2019 line-up and know our fans will find plenty of events and activities to entertain and keep them engaged through-out the four-day show. From the exclusive screening of PokĆ©mon: Mewtwo Strikes Back – Evolution and the impressive works from world-renowned composer Yoshihiro Ike, to crowd favorites like the Fashion Show and all of the fabulous cosplay, we encourage AX 2019 attendees to sample it all - creating many amazing and lasting memories," said Ray Chiang, CEO of The Society for the Promotion of Japanese Animation, AX's organizer.
AX 2019 features 400+ exhibitors, 19 premieres, 500+ artists and hundreds of hours of programming, as well as multiple programming tracks like Culture Day, Family Day and Career Day, many interactive events and 22 Guests of Honor and 100+ industry appearances.

Keeping things mobile and with so many cool events to see, AX makes it easy for fans to know when and where to be with their own App. The Anime Expo 2019 Mobile App is a virtual tour guide - turning a phone into a digital companion, accompanying fans on their journey while providing guidance and information about everything AX! Fans with smartphone access can get up-to-date schedule information, maps, guest information, exhibitor list, artist alley list, and more.

AX 2019 offers four-full days and nights jammed-packed with panel discussions, live performances and special appearances. 

Here are some must-see events:

4DX Anime Film Fest (July 3 & July 4 Regal LA Live Theater): 

At the first annual 4DX Anime Film Fest experience exclusive screenings of Detective Conan: Zero The Enforcer, Mobile Suit Gundam NT (Narrative) and Mobile Suit Gundam 00 the MOVIE – A Wakening of the Trailblazer - enhanced with immersive, multi-sensory 4DX motion and environmental effects! 

  • In addition, a 30-minute Q&A panel with screenwriter and cast follows the Mobile Suit Gundam NT (Narrative) screening to celebrate the 40th anniversary of the series.

Music Galore: 

From DJ's, dance and AMVs to live concerts and karaoke, it wouldn't be AX without plenty of music-related events to choose from. 

Two musts

Yoshihiro Ike
Yoshihiro Ike (image via showclix.com)
  • Yoshihiro Ike: Anime Soundtrack World (July 7, 12:30 – 2:30 pm, Main Events/Hall B): This international debut concert by legendary composer and musician Yoshihiro Ike is sure to awe the audience. Ike is one of the most recognized music composers in Japan, having worked on more than 100 titles in the last 20 years. 
Aqours
Aqours (image via anime-expo.org)
  • School idol group Aqours makes a return appearance with LOVE LIVE! SUNSHINE!! Aqours World LoveLive! in LA 〜BRAND NEW WAVE〜 (July 5, 7 p.m. & July 6, 1 p.m., The NOVO).

Artist Alley (Kentia Hall): 

A must-see are the more than 500 artists who showcase a variety of handmade creations for sale to attendees, including original artwork, prints, crafts, clothing and comic collections in what is the largest gathering of amateur and semi-professional artists at any convention.

  • This year's featured artists are Shinnosuke Uchida, the world's only wall-manga live paint artist, and LA-based pop culture artist Jared Yamahata.

Anime Expo Fashion Show (July 5, 12:30 – 3 p.m., Live Programing 1/Petree Hall): 

Japan is home to many of the most cutting-edge, fashion-forward trends in the world. AX takes pride in showcasing and introducing a variety of designers and their creations to the American market. 

Throughout the years, AX has featured authentic Japanese clothing brands, as well as a new generation of models and this year AX is honored to have Michelle Nguyen Bradley MC the Fashion Show. 

Designers include: h. NAOTO, Acryl CANDY, HYPLAND, amnesiA&paramenesiA, Metamorphose and Hot Topic. 

  • In addition, in The Annex attendees are able to meet and get an autograph or photo from the designers and models, and shop each brand's offerings.

Charity Auction (July 7, 10 a.m. – 12:30 p.m. in Live Programming 3 (408 AB): 

AX is proud to give its support to a very worthy local organization Terasaki Budokan, and encourages fans to stop by the auction and bid on items donated by AX 2019 Guests of Honor, and anime-related vendors and companies that will include signed merchandise, memorabilia, and original artwork. 

Terasaki Budokan's mission is to provide a facility in Downtown Los Angeles for youth, families and seniors that offers sports, community activities and opportunities to connect visitors to Japanese American culture and to a vibrant, sustainable Little Tokyo. 

  • Last year's Charity Auction raised nearly $18,000.

Masquerade & World Cosplay Summit US Finals (costumes) (July 6, 8 – 11 p.m. Main Events/Hall B): 

AX encourages and embraces cosplay and the AX Masquerade is a celebration of cosplay and performance competition steeped in history of more than 20 years. AX is excited to welcome all of the performers who are hoping to win the US preliminary for World Cosplay Summit.

Gaming (Entertainment Hall): 

With more than 200 gaming stations, including eGaming and eSports arenas, tabletop, mobile and arcade games, AX 2019 delivers the latest from Dream League, PUBG, KONAMI, Fate/Grand Order and others. 

With tournaments, learn-to-play, and free-play sessions, there's something for everyone at all skill levels in the tabletop games section. eGaming fans can compete with Xbox, Nintendo, Playstation consoles, plus an arcade section to compete with others or just have fun. 

  • Additionally, fans can join the biggest names in the industry as they unveil their latest projects and releases during panels and workshops.

During all show days, attendees who can't fit everything into their schedule can connect to the Anime Expo Livestream channel to watch events in LP1/Petree Hall and exclusive interviews.

SOURCE: Anime Expo

Related Videos:









20 June 2019

Hollywood Bad Boy and Legendary Directors Team Up for Short Film and Rock Video That Puts Spotlight on Opioid Epidemic [Video Included]

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On the film set of CORE "Killing ME" the new music video and short film with Actor Tom Sizemore exchanging fight scene direction with Producer James Fargo
On the film set of CORE "Killing ME" the new music video and short film with Actor Tom Sizemore exchanging fight scene direction with Producer James Fargo
The rock band CORE released their 3rd hit single titled "Killing Me" to national radio this week. It was followed-up simultaneously with a high-end, high quality, and highly destructive fast-paced music video that is sure to keep you watching. 

The music video for "Killing Me" hit 44 TV networks and shows globally, with more than 60 plus radio stations worldwide supporting CORE in less than one week. Getting to millions of households and fans favorite radio stations in the USA and internationally combined is a first for the band. 

  • This is CORE's first music video, and fans say, "…they did it right."
Going all out on talent and production, the video stars the award winning film actor and Hollywood bad boy himself, Tom Sizemore, and it's produced by the legendary director James Fargo. 

Fargo is known for directing many films for Clint Eastwood and working with Steven Spielberg. The video is directed by long-time MTV video producer Bruce Haymer-Coleman who is responsible for many iconic videos of the MTV grunge era through today.

"Killing Me" (the fictional video) set in downtown Los Angeles was written about a famous fictional Hollywood actor who has a dependence on prescription opioids and needs to make a choice to continue or face failure that is eating at his soul with career and family taking a toll. A horrific tragedy takes place. He then realizes during a dark moment of injury, loss of consciousness and near death that his opioid use is not at all worth it anymore and the drugs are "Killing Me over and over again" unless change happens. 

  •  In some ways this parallels Tom Sizemore's real life from the past.
On Set for the CORE "Killing ME" video filming, with Producer James Fargo, Mike Quinn of Silverstone Entertainment Management and Silverstone Records USA, and film star Actor Tom Sizemore downtown Los Angeles, CA.
On Set for the CORE "Killing ME" video filming, with Producer James Fargo, Mike Quinn of Silverstone Entertainment Management and Silverstone Records USA, and film star Actor Tom Sizemore downtown Los Angeles, CA.
It is noteworthy to mention that the story for the video was originally written by Tom Sizemore's current manager and one of the producers of the "Killing Me" video, Mike Quinn of Silverstone Entertainment USA, and Silverstone Records USA (the label and management companies CORE is also signed to along with Sizemore and many others). Mike has directed and produced other network videos that also seem to match clients lives like the Amanda Perez videos that ran on MTV. However, this song and video may have hit closer to home for Tom Sizemore than any big budget film he has ever done. Tom has been falsely accused of a wide range of allegations, but admits to past addictions that he has spoken about on the Dr. Drew TV series "Celebrity Rehab."

Never-the-less Tom Sizemore's role in this video makes it a non-forgettable short film and music video that delivers what is certainly expected of an A-list L.A. actor. Tom has never before done a music video, turning down everything music video till now. 
He says, "this one just felt right with Fargo producing and shooting the fight scenes, with Bruce Haymer-Coleman directing the video project, we could not go wrong… some real pros and the song is absolutely incredible." Tom, being a musician and songwriter himself added: "It felt right, just a damn good record, and a video to match."
The video was expanded on by the director Haymer-Coleman and it took a number of weeks to set up and some very long days to shoot. The Killing Me video went way over budget on production while the LAPD had to shut down a number of streets while diverting L.A. traffic so the Fourth Street bridge in downtown Los Angeles could be completely shut down as crews shot the destructive limo scenes.
Tom Sizemore said, "watching the production crew flip a 140,000 dollar, and seemingly great working black super-stretch-presidential style limousine in the video and destroy it to literal pieces and smoke was out of this world for what I expected to be just CGI effects only. Not your usual for any video I have seen lately."
"Killing Me" is real rock, no sissy nonsense song. They have been compared to Stone Temple Pilots meets Guns N' Roses with the modern riffs and classic guitar solo. CORE is based in Austin, Texas and has roots in Las Vegas. 

  • Silverstone is now planning a radio tour and other concert dates.

The Video:



SOURCE: Silverstone Entertainment USA


19 June 2019

'Incognito Doritos' Unveiled To Help Spider-Man Conceal His Iconic Suit

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Spider-Man: Far From Home And Doritos Join Forces to Design “Incognito Doritos” Bags that Covertly Transform into Official Replica of the Spider-Man Suit
Spider-Man: Far From Home And Doritos Join Forces to Design “Incognito Doritos” Bags that Covertly Transform into Official Replica of the Spider-Man Suit
In the technological feat of the century, Doritos has completed production on "Incognito Doritos," state-of-the-art, traditional-looking Doritos bags that covertly transform into an official replica suit from Spider-Man: Far From Home, in theaters on July 2, 2019. 

The Spidey-suit allows Peter Parker to be a hero, even far from home, completely undetected with his Spider-Man identity kept safe. And luckily for select fans, an official replica suit is now available for a limited time and a noble cause.

Through a global promotional partnership with Columbia Pictures' upcoming summer release Spider-Man: Far From Home, in association with Marvel Studios, the "revolutionary" Incognito Doritos "chip bags" conceal the full-size Spider-Man suit… but not just any suit. It is the official replica of the "Black & Red" edition made by Spider-Man's official suit maker Shafton Inc. that will make its debut in the upcoming film, marking the first time fans can get their hands on one.

"Teaming up with Spider-Man, we knew we had to deliver something epic and iconic to fans around the world," said Leslie Vesper, senior director of marketing, Frito-Lay North America. "So we thought in a humorous way we could help Peter Parker keep his identity secret. We also know that there's a strong overlap between our core Doritos consumers and Spider-Man fans, so we wanted to create something fun that truly brings both worlds together and for a good cause."
"We're excited to collaborate with Doritos on this innovative campaign in support of Spider-Man: Far From Home," said Jeffrey Godsick, EVP, Brand Strategy and Global Partnerships, Sony Pictures Motion Picture Group. "This unique promotional partnership perfectly ties in with the themes of the film, and we are excited to see the never-been-done before replica of the Spider-Man suit camouflaged in a Doritos bag. No doubt this will get people talking."
Incognito Doritos will only be available via a social giveaway sweepstakes sponsored by Doritos, and one special-edition version will be auctioned off on eBay to benefit Capes4Heroes, which creates personalized superhero capes for kids with disabilities or illnesses or who just need to feel empowered. Doritos will also make a separate donation.

  • Starting now, fans can tweet @Doritos to tell us what super power Doritos gives them using #IncognitoDoritos and #entry…before they disappear on June 30. And starting on June 20 and continuing through June 27, fans can also join in on the superhero action by bidding in the eBay auction at IncognitoDoritos.com
Incognito Doritos are part of the brand's overall partnership with the upcoming film Spider-Man: Far From Home. The collaboration also includes specially marked bags of Doritos that contain codes that can be entered for an opportunity to win unique Spider-Man: Far From Home inspired prizes, including a grand prize European trip for two. 

Consumers can enter on-pack codes at doritos.com and participate in the "Spidey-Sense Challenge," an online game where users playing as Spider-Man will run a series of web shooter training courses in various cities. 
Spider-Man: Far From Home And Doritos Join Forces to Design “Incognito Doritos” Bags that Covertly Transform into Official Replica of the Spider-Man Suit
Spider-Man: Far From Home And Doritos Join Forces to Design “Incognito Doritos” Bags that Covertly Transform into Official Replica of the Spider-Man Suit

About Spider-Man: Far From Home

"Following the events of Avengers: Endgame, Spider-Man must step up to take on new threats in a world that has changed forever."

  • Directed by Jon Watts. Written by Chris McKenna & Erik Sommers. 
  • Based on the MARVEL Comic Book by Stan Lee and Steve Ditko. 
  • Produced by Kevin Feige and Amy Pascal. 
  • Louis D'Esposito, Victoria Alonso, Thomas M. Hammel, Eric Hauserman Carroll, Rachel O'Connor, Stan Lee, Avi Arad and Matt Tolmach serve as executive producers. 
  • The film stars Tom Holland, Samuel L. Jackson, Zendaya, Cobie Smulders, Jon Favreau, JB Smoove, Jacob Batalon, Martin Starr, with Marisa Tomei and Jake Gyllenhaal.

About Capes4Heroes

Capes4Heroes makes personalized superhero capes for kids with disabilities, kids with life threatening illnesses, and kids who just need to feel empowered. These capes give deserving kids an extra boost of strength and courage and make them feel like the superheroes they truly are!


"Our Heroes" - Capes4Heroes
Our Heroes (image via Capes4Heroes)
Founded in 2008 by Barbara Casados, Capes4Heroes is headquartered in Danville, California. To date, Capes4Heroes has personalized and delivered over 25,000 capes to children all over the United States. 

With support from partners and sponsors, heroes have received their capes at superhero parties, camps, Children's hospitals and through their online nomination process. 

  • Their goal is to distribute capes to 5,000 more children during their 2019 East Coast Cape Crusade. 

17 June 2019

Shania Twain Returns To Las Vegas With A New Residency “Let’s Go!”

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Global Icon Shania Twain Announces Headlining Las Vegas Residency - Shania Twain "Let's Go!" The Las Vegas Residency Launches Friday, December 6 At Zappos Theater At Planet Hollywood Resort & Casino
Global Icon Shania Twain Announces Headlining Las Vegas Residency - Shania Twain "Let's Go!" The Las Vegas Residency Launches Friday, December 6 At Zappos Theater At Planet Hollywood Resort & Casino
One of music's most renowned trailblazers and the top-selling female country artist of all-time, Shania Twain, is returning to the Las Vegas Strip with Shania Twain "Let's Go!" The Las Vegas Residency, opening at Zappos Theater at Planet Hollywood Resort & Casino on Friday, Dec. 6, 2019.

Shania will serve as creative director for her new Las Vegas show, combining her three decade-long career with inspiration from her iconic videos and elements from her 2018 sold out global NOW tour. 

This country rebel at heart will push the boundaries in Vegas, just as she always has done, taking fans on a journey of nostalgia and blowing them away with outside-the-box concepts and visual spectacles. 

  • Tickets go on sale to the public starting Friday, June 21 at 10 a.m. PT. 
  • American Express Card Members can purchase tickets before the general public beginning Tuesday, June 18 at 10 a.m. PT through Thursday, June 20 10 p.m. PT. 
  • Caesars Rewards members, Caesars Entertainment's loyalty program, and Live Nation and Ticketmaster customers will have access to a presale on Thursday, June 20 from 10 a.m. PT through 10 p.m. PT. 
The 23 performances going on sale are:
Dec. 2019: 6, 7, 11, 13, 14, 18
March 2020: 13, 14, 18, 20, 21, 25, 27, 28
May 2020: 20, 22, 23, 27, 29, 30
June 2020: 3, 5, 6

General ticket prices begin at $60 plus applicable tax and fees, and may be purchased online at ticketmaster.com/shaniavegas or in-person at the Planet Hollywood box office. 

  • All shows begin at 8 p.m.
Shania Twain (image via Shania Kids Can)
Additionally, Shania, Live Nation Las Vegas and Caesars Entertainment have announced that $1 of every ticket purchased to Shania Twain "Let's Go!" The Las Vegas Residency at Planet Hollywood Resort & Casino will be donated to Shania Kids Can

Established in 2010 by Shania Twain, Shania Kids Can (SKC) provides services that promote positive change in children's lives in time of crises and economic hardship. SKC provides children with one-on-one consultations, academic support, group activities as well as nutritious snacks and meal programs where needed, all while in the safe, confidence-building environment that is the Shania Kids Can Clubhouse

Shania Twain
Shania Twain (image via ShaniaTwain.com ©2018 Todd Kaplan)

About Shania Twain:

Shania Twain is a five-time GRAMMY winner and the reigning Queen of Country Pop. With more than 90 million albums sold worldwide and U.S. sales topping 34.5 million, Twain remains the top-selling female country artist of all time. Twain's albums include Shania Twain, Twain's Platinum-selling 1993 debut; The Woman in Me, her GRAMMY Award-winning, Double Diamond-selling 1995 release; Come On Over, the best-selling studio album in Soundscan history by a female artist in any genre and the best-selling country album of all time with over 40 million units sold worldwide; and UP!, Twain's third consecutive Diamond-selling album release.

Recognizing her indelible impact and achievements in music, Twain is the first and only female to receive CMT's Artist of a Lifetime Award and she recently received the Icon Award at Billboard's Women in Music ceremony. Twain's hits include "Any Man of Mine," "That Don't Impress Me Much," "You're Still the One" and "Man! I Feel Like A Woman!" Shania's first album in 15 years, NOW, was released in September 2017 and debuted at No. 1 on the Billboard Top 200 albums, making it the first female country release in over 3 years to top the all genre chart. Additionally, the album landed at No. 1 on the Billboard Top Country album charts and went to No. 1 in Canada, Australia and the UK. The release of the album was followed by a year-long sold-out World Tour.

SOURCE: Live Nation

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