Teen Titans Tower
Imaginext

Our Score: 3.5 out of 5 Stars

Fans of Cartoon Networks “Teen Titans Go” can now bring the fun of the show into their playrooms with Imaginext’s new “Teen Titans Go” line of figures and play sets. At the center of the series is the Teen Titans Tower a, multi tiered play set which features transforming couch launchers, a movable elevator and a gym area complete with sparring dummy. The Tower is a great addition any growing Imaginext collection or as your first introduction to the Imaginext toy line.

Toy Tester Ian w/ the Teen Titan Tower

Included with the set are three figures (Robin, Mammoth & Silkie) which allow you to jump right in and start playing without the need for additional purchases. This was something our 5 year older tester Ian really liked as the figures are just as much fun as the play sets they accompany. Another cool feature was the couch launchers which are nicely hidden within the third level of the tower. With a turn of the Power pad the couches transform in to projectile launchers complete with pizza shaped missiles ready to defend the tower from whatever Mammoth can throw at it.

Though the Teen Titan Tower might not pack as many features as some of Imaginext’s more elaborate play sets it’s still a fun toy that fans of the television series will want to get their hands on. The colors and details of the set are spot on and the included three characters is a great bonus. With only a few shopping days left until Christmas the Teen Titan Tower is a toy that you can’t go wrong picking up for that special someone on your list.

Toy Review: Imaginext DC Super Friends Batbot Xtreme

DC Super Friends Batbot Xtreme
Imaginext

Our Score 4 out of 5 stars

The Imaginext DC Super Friends Batbot Xtreme is the ultimate toy for Batman fans. Your young Super Hero will have a blast defending Gotham from all sorts of diabolical Super-Villain attacks! At over two-feet tall, the Batbot Xtreme towers over enemies and is packed with tons of features such as extendable wings, multiple projectile launchers, a hidden Batcycle, a voice changer, and real punching fists all accessible with turn of a power disk making this a great toy for any age.

Imaginext delivers the goods once again as they continue to build on their already impressive DC Super Friends lines. This time around is the Batbot Xtreme. Direct from the DC Comic series comes this towering toy that based on just size alone is pretty impressive. Coming in at just over two feet tall youngster are eye level with this immensely interactive toy. Our five year old toy tester Ian was immediately in awe of this toy even before we got it out of the box.

With all of the launching abilities this robot offers coupled with the expandable wings complete with punching power you would think that would be enough but, the creators really went the extra distance with this product as you also get a launching bat cycle, an opening chest compartment complete with elevator which can transport figures in to the cockpit of the robot and, to top it all off a voice changer which allows a users voice to be transformed into that of the robot. This feature was one that Ian really loved as not only did it add to the creative play experience it provided a good amount of giggles both for him and mom and dad.

Toy Tester Ian w/ the Batbot Xtreme

Imaginext really hit it out of the park with the Batbot Xtreme. Yes the $99 price tag might seem a bit steep at first glance but, once you really take a look at all the toys features and its rugged construction you can quickly see that this toy is one which will provide hours of fun and enjoyment for many years to come. Ian certainly put the Batbot through its paces and after a weekend of play the only negative we could find is that for smaller children it can be a bit difficult to move because of the size. This resulted in a few calls from the play room to mom and dad for a little help.

Possibly the addition of a few small wheels on the bottom would enhance the play even more and make moving a little easier however, its always nice to get that call for help as my wife and I were quickly recruited in to the play. With the holidays right around the corner Imaginext’s Batbot Xtreme is a near perfect toy to add to your loved ones list this year no matter what age.

Many types we come across people who want to harm us or create trouble for us. Not only them but we the have children at our home who needs to be supervised for they also use phones and various social media applications. Recently there was a game name; Blue Whale was being played by many children who committed suicide. Most of the times family doesn’t understand what is happening with the child and then they get the shock of their lives which costs lifetime full of regret. That is why you need applications and sources where you can keep track of what your young one is doing and also what is happening around you so that you can be ready for it if trouble arrives.

Best Spy Application

Best spy apps for android spyware helps you keep whereabouts of everything you would want to know. With the help of this application, it will be easy for you to snoop around on others phone without being caught and insulted. Also, your child won’t even know about it unless he finds you too. No matter as much as wrong it sounds, it is essential that you understand that in today’s social media world, nobody is safe and the young minds are the easiest prey to be trapped in the net by the hunters such as pedophiles, etc.

Steps To Install

Snoopza is easy to install on your phone. Here are the levels to make you understand the process of downloading it on your phone. Read ahead-

• Sign up- This is the very first step to install this app. Sign up on their website; you can go to this link and create your account and password along with it. Making of the account is free of cost, so you need not worry about it at all.

• Install- Install this application on your kid’s phone and log in with your account. You can hide this account, and they won’t be able to know that you’ve downloaded it to keep a track on them.

• Log in- after downloading it on their phone, remember to log in with the help of your account and password that you created to sign in on the website of the same application.

Services Offered By Application

Now before you install this app or after you do, it is essential to know the services it provides. Here is the list of services offered by the snoopza app to help you spy on others phone.

Call Tracking– This application saves the chats, all the conversations, the exact time of any text or call, the date and times of miss calls, incoming and outgoing calls. In short, everything you need, it keeps track of it.

Call Recording– along with tracking it all, it records the conversation you are having on calls too. And it saves to tune in later and gather all the information.

Location Tracker– one of the best features that make this app a plus is its capability of keeping track of your location. So that if you want to know where your children are, you can understand their lie easily.

Facebook– you also get access to the password of facebook that is logged on on that device so that you can see who the kids are chatting with and what are they sharing on their profile.

Tracking Of Internet History– You can also keep track of their internet browser history or data along with the cookies and caches to know if they are into activities they shouldn’t be into at all and you can bring them back on track if something wrong happens.

Sim Card Replacement– what if all you know about is one number but kid uses the second one as a secret to lay off the radar of being caught. Well, this application does that too.

Download this app now and live a tension free life.

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If you’re reading this, then Thanksgiving is mere days away (or has past, considering WHEN you’re reading this). Turkey. Stuffing. Popcorn. Raisinets.

Yes, the holidays do mean goodies on the dining room table. But they also mean goodies at the local multiplex. Here is a list of some of the films we’re looking forward to. Please note that release dates are subject to change at the whim of the studios. Some synopsis information courtesy of our friends at IMDB.

I hope this year we get more presents then lumps of coal.

November 22

“Coco”
Starring the voices of: Anthony Gonzalez and Benjamin Bratt
Directed by: Lee Unkrich

The latest from the folks at Pixar. Aspiring musician Miguel, confronted with his family’s ancestral ban on music, enters the Land of the Dead to work out the mystery.

Oscar Chances: With over 20 Academy Awards to its name, including six for Best Animated Feature, the chances are good.

“Darkest Hour”
Starring: Gary Oldman, Kristin Scott Thomas
Directed by: Joe Wright

During the early days of World War II, the fate of Western Europe hangs on the newly-appointed British Prime Minister Winston Churchill, who must decide whether to negotiate with Hitler, or fight on against incredible odds.

Oscar Chances: Look for Oldman to earn his 2nd nomination.

“The Man Who Invented Christmas”
Starring: Dan Stevens, Christopher Plummer, Jonathan Pryce
Directed by: Bharat Nalluri

The backstory to how author Charles Dickens came to write “A Christmas Carol.”

Oscar Chances: Maybe Plummer but I’m thinking this film will get Scrooged.

“Chappaquiddick”
Starring: Kate Mara and Clancy Brown
Directed by: John Curran

The film recounts the tragic events of the 1969 car accident involving U.S. Senator Ted Kennedy and a young, female campaign worker who died at the scene. Kennedy left the scene of the accident and didn’t alert authorities for ten hours. I’ve actually driven across that bridge and it wasn’t easy to traverse in the middle of a bright, sunny day. Just saying.

Oscar Chances: Would love to see Clancy Brown get a nod.   PLEASE NOTE THIS FILM HAS BEEN MOVED TO APRIL 2018

November 24

“Call Me by Your Name”
Starring: Armie Hammer and Timothee Chalamet
Directed by: Luca Guadagino

In Northern Italy in 1983, 17-year-old Elio begins a relationship with visiting Oliver, his father’s research assistant, with whom he bonds over his emerging sexuality, their Jewish heritage, and the beguiling Italian landscape.

Oscar Chances: Hammer has been getting good festival buzz.

December 1

“24 Hours to Live”
Starring: Ethan Hawke and Rutger Hauer
Directed by: Brian Smrz

An assassin seeks redemption after being given a second chance at life.

Oscar Chances: No.

“The Disaster Artist”
Starring: James Franco, Dave Franco and Seth Rogen
Directed by: James Franco

The behind-the-scenes story of the making of the cult film “The Room,” with James Franco playing the film’s star/writer/director/jack-of-all-trades Tommy Wiseau.

Oscar Chances: I personally find James Franco to be a fine filmmaker. If you haven’t seen “In Dubious Battle,” a film from earlier this year, I highly recommend it. It’s easily on my Top 10 List of 2017.

“Wonder Wheel”
Starring: Jim Belushi, Juno Temple and Kate Winslet
Directed by: Woody Allen

On Coney Island in the 1950s, a lifeguard tells the story of a middle-aged carousel operator and his beleaguered wife.

Oscar Chances: With 24 Academy Award nominations, and four Oscars, you can never count the Woodman out.

December 8

“Arthur Miller: Writer”
Directed by: Rebecca Miller.

A profile of the great playwright Arthur Miller, directed by his daughter.

Oscar Chances: A possible Best Documentary nod.

“Bullet Head”
Starring: Antonio Banderas, Adrien Brody and John Malkovich
Directed by: Paul Solet

The three leads play criminals holed up in a warehouse. Or at least that is what I assume from what I can find. There is no synopsis on IMDB!

Oscar Chances: Like the synopsis, non-existent.

“I, Tonya”
Starring: Margot Robbie and Sebastian Stan
Directed by: Craig Gillespie

Surely I’m not the only man in America who had a crush on Tonya Harding? When I woke up one day to find she had married a man named Michael Smith and it WASN’T me I was devastated. Apparently here Tonya wants to win the Olympics and her husband gives her a little help.

Oscar Chances: Worth one just to see Tonya Harding at the Oscars. It would be as memorable as the year Woody Harrelson brought Larry Flynt.

“Just Getting Started”
Starring: Morgan Freeman, Tommy Lee Jones and Renee Russo
Directed by: Ron Shelton

A two-hander action comedy in the vein of “Midnight Run” about an ex-FBI agent (Jones) and an ex-mob lawyer in the witness protection program (Freeman) having to put aside their petty rivalry on the golf course to fend off a mob hit.

Oscar Chances: Lots of talent here but the word “comedy” usually scares the Academy.

“The Shape of Water”
Starring: Sally Hawkins, Michael Shannon and Doug Jones
Directed by: Guillermo del Toro

An other-worldly fairy tale, set against the backdrop of Cold War era America circa 1962. In the hidden high-security government laboratory where she works, lonely Elisa (Sally Hawkins) is trapped in a life of isolation. Elisa’s life is changed forever when she and a co-worker discover a secret classified experiment.

Oscar Chances: del Toro is one of the great visionaries of our time.

December 15

“Ferdinand”
Starring the voices of: John Cena and Kate McKinnon
Directed by: Carlos Saldanha

After Ferdinand, a bull with a big heart, is mistaken for a dangerous beast, he is captured and torn from his home. Determined to return to his family, he rallies a misfit team on the ultimate adventure.

OSCAR CHANCES: Possible Best Animated Feature nod.

“Gotti”
Starring: John Travolta and Kelly Preston
Directed by: Kevin Connolly

The story of renowned mob boss John Gotti and his son.

Oscar Chances: 40 years after “Saturday Night Fever” Travolta is still a star.

“Star Wars: The Last Jedi”
Starring: Mark Hamill, John Boyega and Daisy Ridley
Directed by: Rian Johnson

Episode VIII begins where VII ended, with Rey finally tracking down the elusive Luke Skywalker. Bring your Kleenex as we say goodbye to the great Carrie Fisher and Princess Leia.

Oscar Chances: Lots of technical nods.

December 20

“The Greatest Showman”
Starring: Hugh Jackman, Michelle Williams and Zac Efron
Directed by: Michael Gracey

Inspired by the imagination of P.T. Barnum, “The Greatest Showman” is an original musical that celebrates the birth of show business and tells of a visionary who rose from nothing to create a spectacle that became a worldwide sensation.

Oscar Chances: Hollywood loves Jackman, who got an Oscar nod the last time he sang on screen.

“Jumanji: Welcome to the Jungle”
Starring: Dwayne Johnson, Kevin Hart and Jack Black
Directed by: Jake Kasdan

Four teenagers discover an old video game console and are literally drawn into the game’s jungle setting becoming the adult avatars they chose.

Oscar Chances: Technical maybe.

December 22

“All the Money in the World”
Starring: Mark Wahlberg, Michelle Williams and Christopher Plummer
Directed by: Ridley Scott

The story of the kidnapping of 16-year-old John Paul Getty III and the desperate attempt by his devoted mother to convince his billionaire grandfather Jean Paul Getty to pay the ransom. This film was already completed with Kevin Spacey playing grandpa Getty. In an unprecedented move, after Spacey’s recent scandals came to light, director Scott re-cast the role with Christopher Plummer and re-shot all of Spacey’s scenes. In six weeks.

Oscar Chances: Ridley Scott should get TWO Oscars if he pulls this off.

“Bright”
Starring: Will Smith, Noomi Rapace and Joel Edgerton
Directed by: David Ayer

Set in a world where mystical creatures live side by side with humans. A human cop is forced to work with an Orc to find a weapon everyone is prepared to kill for.

Oscar Chances: Nope. Sounds too much like “Alien Nation” to me.

“Downsizing”
Starring: Matt Damon, Christoph Waltz and Kristen Wiig
Directed by: Alexander Payne

A social satire in which a guy realizes he would have a better life if he were to shrink himself.

Oscar Chances: Payne is an Academy favorite.

“Hangman”
Starring: Karl Urban and Al Pacino
Directed by: Johnny Martin

A homicide detective teams up with a criminal profiler to catch a serial killer whose crimes are inspired by the children’s game Hangman.

Oscar Chances: Don’t see it happening.

“Happy End”
Starring: Jean-Louis Trintignant and Isabelle Huppert
Directed by: Michael Haneke

A drama about a family set in Calais with the European refugee crisis as the backdrop.

Oscar Chances: Very good. Writer/director Haneke gave us “Amour”

“Hostiles”
Starring: Christian Bale, Wes Studi and Rosamund Pike
Directed by: Scott Cooper

In 1892, a legendary Army captain reluctantly agrees to escort a Cheyenne chief and his family through dangerous territory.

Oscar Chances: Some acting nods possible.

“Pitch Perfect 3”
Starring: Anna Kendrick and Rebel Wilson
Directed by: Trish Sie

Following their win at the world championship, the now separated Bellas reunite for one last singing competition at an overseas USO tour, but face a group who uses both instruments and voices.

Oscar Chances: Nothing I can imagine.

“The Post”
Starring: Tom Hanks and Meryl Streep
Directed by: Steven Spielberg

A cover-up that spanned four U.S. Presidents pushed the country’s first female newspaper publisher and a hard-driving editor to join an unprecedented battle between journalist and government. Inspired by true events.

Oscar Chances: Duh!!! You think? Hanks, Streep and Spielberg share over 40 nominations, with Streep leading the way with 20 of her own.

December 25

“Molly’s Game”
Starring: Jessica Chastain, Kevin Costner and Idris Elba
Directed by: Aaron Sorkin

The true story of Molly Bloom, an Olympic-class skier who ran the world’s most exclusive high-stakes poker game and became an FBI target. This is the Oscar-winning writer Sorkin’s directorial debut.

Oscar Chances: Many.

“Phantom Thread”
Starring: Daniel Day-Lewis
Directed by: Paul Thomas Anderson

Set in 1950’s London, Reynolds Woodcock is a renowned dressmaker whose fastidious life is disrupted by a young, strong-willed woman, Alma, who becomes his muse and lover.

Oscar Chances: Again, many. Day-Lewis won one of his three Oscars for Anderson’s “There Will Be Blood.”

December 27

“In the Fade”
Starring: Diane Kruger
Directed by: Faith Akin

Katja’s life collapses after the death of her husband and son in a bomb attack. After a time of mourning and injustice, Katja seeks revenge.

Oscar Chances: Kruger won the best-actress prize at Cannes.

December 29

“Film Stars Don’t Die in Liverpool”
Starring: Annette Bening and Jamie Bell
Directed by: Paul McGuigan

A romance sparks between a young actor and a Hollywood leading lady.

Oscar Chances: Bening is SO overdue. Wake up Academy!

 

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Every year, I look forward to attending the International Association of Amusement Parks and Attractions expo, which takes over a nice portion of the Orange County Convention Center. They fill the enormous show floor for sneak peaks of what we can expect from the future of theme park industry. It ranges from rides to food to even metal shop work, which we love here at Media Mikes! You literally need a few days to even properly cover this event fully. I have covered this event for the last few years with my dad. He is a Mike also, so fits with the site also 🙂 It has become a fun tradition. We split the event and conqueror. Only true way to see everything in the short week! This year a highlight year for sure!
Virtual reality definitely was the spotlight for this year, no question. It seemed like every place you turn there was a new VR experience to try. VR isn’t really my bag, so we didn’t partake too much but I am excited to see what these amusement parks have planned for the future. One that comes to mind was HALOGATE VR EXPERIENCE. This was one that I did try and I literally was blown away. I can see this be a very popular attraction. One that I have been on previously and would not recommend is definitely the MaxFlight simulator. It is old tech and a VERY ROUGH ride! Stay away from that one for sure!
If VR isn’t your bag there was tons of other great options to see including the outdoor sky-flying attraction called Aerodium Wind Tunnel. I could see myself doing this for sure and it is very easy to setup for companies. I feel like these could pop-up very easily anyway. There was also the Phoenix Pro virtual driving Formula 1 Simulator by Wave Italy. This was rad. You are sitting in a mock Formula 1 car and you are surrounded by screens in front of you as you speed through courses. Very interactive and a ton of fun!
The absolute highlight of this year for me has to be the Infinity Massage Chair station. I found my newest love with the Infinity Riage X3, the “world’s best massage chair”. This chair uses 3D Technology giving a state of the art Reflexology Massage with a Zero Gravity experience including Spinal Decompression and deep tissue massage. If that isn’t enough it even has Bluetooth for music and can be controlled by iPad application. If you are wondering YES I did buy one of these at the show, no joke! It was an amazing purchase and I honestly plan on using it daily!
Other than rides, there were also some great companies advertising costumes like full My Little Pony characters. These were really sharp and I know my daughter would have loved this when she was younger for sure! Stopped by Apple Industries booth, which was actually smaller from previous years, and had some fun with the photo booths. There was a fun “Fear the Walking Dead” zombie interactive experience, which had quite the line but was a ton of fun! I also found a super fun Willy Wonka coin game that had be glued it to it for a longer than I want to admit. I wish I would have bought one of those also but my wife would have easily divorced me for sure 😉
In previous years, I didn’t get to hit enough panels each year but this year we were able to catch the SeaWorld panel and it was definitely promising. Having worked personally for the company in the past, I am excited to see everything that it has planned for the future. Infinity Falls at Aquatica is going to be an amazing new ride! This park has always been a favorite of mine and I am glad to see that it has big plans for the future. All the theme parks had presence. I spotted plenty of high profile people over the week. So I expect to see some of this new attractions and technologies in a theme park near you!
Besides buying a massage chair, the most fun I enjoy is walking the floor and meeting the vendors and having them talk about all the excited new technology that they are working with and what we can expect even for next year. This convention is worldwide and the companies that come from all over the world to showcase what they are currently working on. I love meeting all these great people and I love getting a chance to try out these new attractions. I can’t wait for 2018, which also happens to be the 100th anniversary for IAAPA! So I can imagine that next year is going to be bigger than ever! Till next November!

 

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A super reunion and the “Comic Book Men” helped fill the halls of Bartle Hall over the weekend. Kansas City Comic Con, now in it’s third year, saw thousands upon thousands of people pass through the entrance between November 10th-12th.

Fans from all walks of life showed up for the weekend gathering. The “Superman: The Movie” 40th anniversary, which featured a two-hour panel and guests like Margot Kidder, Sarah Douglas, and local Jeff East, was the big draw. The other big draw was a visit by Filmmaker/Podcaster Kevin Smith, Jason Mewes, and the men behind the AMC show “Comic Book Men.”

There was plenty to do, including lively panels, events on the main floor, and meeting celebrities, animators, creators, cosplayers and othersw. During the hustle and bustle, the MediaMikes crew met fans of the website and garnished new fans with a booth featuring “Superman” memorabilia and a few free promotional items.

In a city full of cons throughout the year, Kansas City Comic Con has sliced out it’s own piece of the year to entertain and reward those in attendance. MediaMikes looks forward to working with and joining Kansas City Comic Con in 2018.

Photos by Dan Lybarger

“Superman” display at the MediaMikes table Lee Meriwether is all-in for “Justice League” Ron Burgundy setting up for a live shot A couple of Supermen taking in the MediaMikes memorabilia display The “Comic Book Men” enjoying the latest issue of “Good Housekeeping” featuring Deadpool “It” cosplay is in this year A “Ghostbusters” and “TMNT” crossover

Whether the business is big or small, social media networks can play a huge role in helping them develop. This is thanks to them being excellent for attracting new customers, keeping existing customers entertained and informed, marketing new products and services and providing the vital link between a business and its customer base. With billions of people regularly using platforms such as Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and Snapchat, it’s no surprise businesses such as online casino brands are taking advantage of what social media has to offer.

For a start, engaging with customers these days is huge, especially on platforms such as Facebook. People who visit online casino sites they want to feel appreciated and not only that but they want the services on offer to be kept updated with fresh content. Through social media, it’s remarkably easy to inform customers and potential customers of the latest games, services and promotions on offer. Social media also allows reactions to be gauged accurately too through the use of likes and comments; which is invaluable to any successful service. It’s the ideal link between customers, both new and existing, and the business.

So apart from social media being great for marketing purposes it’s also a great way to actually get to know the customers too. When an online casino operator knows what a large part of their fan base wants from a slot game for example, they can set about ensuring that it accurately reflects their tastes as much as possible. It reduces a lot of risk involved when bringing fresh content to the table. Knowing what somebody likes beforehand is a great advantage and social media can help make this possible.

Keeping customers happy and interested is vital in the success of any business, be it online or offline. Online casinos, Unibet being a perfect example, are renowned for having promotions on for both new and existing customers and what better way to get the message out there than through the use of Facebook, Twitter and Instagram? It won’t just be members who take note either as special offers such as a triple deposit bonus will spread like wildfire on social media from person to person remarkably quickly.

Social media also allows for promotions, special offers and information to be presented to people in much more engaging ways through images and videos. Online casinos often utilize these methods well in order to communicate directly to people and as they will also attract more feedback than a generic Facebook post for example, they’re great tools to ascertain what customers like and dislike.

The role of social media has never been more important, especially for highly competitive businesses, as per seen in the online casino industry. It’s vital that customers are kept happy and are regularly engaged in the right ways and the likes of Facebook and Twitter make this a whole lot easier. With social media also being a hub for accurate feedback on the latest services and products, it’s a crucial tool when it comes to delivering the fresh content that people want and need.

The holidays are approaching quickly and it is time to get your gifts in order! Well look no further than one of the coolest gifts someone can receive (within ages 12+). Jenga has always been fun but rather small in scale. Well, that has all changed with Jenga Giant JS7, this game definitely lives up to the name. This game is the literally the largest authentic hardwood JENGA® game you can buy and it can scale as high at FIVE FEET! Yes, five feet tall!

This game features 54 oversized, precision-crafted, high quality, smoothly polished hardwood blocks packaged within a heavy duty carry bag. The game is a little higly priced to be honest at an MSRP $169.95 but Amazon has it for less than $120, so might want to consider that angle or if not they are available on jengagiant.com.

Personally, I have always been a huge fan of Jenga and with the releases of their “Giant” product it has re-won me over as an adult now (or at least a pretend adult, lol). Note that if you do get this product to heights of five plus feet, it falls hard and if it hits your toes..OUCH! So make sure you have plenty of room to play. Get some friends/family around and get ready to have a blast!

NBC’s hit show Blindspot returned this week for its third season. The second season finale certainly raised the stakes for this year by launching the story a full two years ahead, scattering the show’s main characters across the globe, and increasing the mysteries of the missing timeline. Not to mention a whole new set of glowing tattoos for main character Jane Doe (Jaimie Alexander) to unlock. In case you missed it, the premiere certainly rose to the challenge set down by that cliffhanger. Friday night’s “Back to the Grind” featured no less than a wedding, a knife fight and a boat chase through Venice while reintroducing Jane’s nemesis brother, Roman (Luke Mitchell).

I spoke to the show’s cast and creator recently at New York Comic Con about what to expect for this new season. If you head on over to the Media Mikes Facebook page you can check out the full video interviews (don’t forget to give us a “Like” while you’re there!)

For Jaimie Alexander, Jane Doe’s new set of tattoos were a complete surprise. “I get to the end of the script,” said Alexander, who hadn’t read ahead, “and I was like ‘What!? More? I have more?!'” As seen on “Back to the Grind” one new tattoo already had Tasha Zapata (Audrey Esparza) on edge, which is right in line with Roman’s schemes. “These tattoos are not only about Roman’s end goal…” said creator and executive producer, Martin Gero “but also exposing truths within the team.” Luke Mitchell was excited to take on the role of The Big Bad saying “it’s nerve-wracking and feels like a lot of responsibility.”

It’s not all about the big bad though, as Gero and crew emphasized the James Bond-like nature this new year is bringing. “The world is kind of a scary place right now and we could all use a little escape,” Gero said, “And the show–the show can be scary and serious at times, but it was really important for us this year to have a lot more fun. To bend towards more of a kind of Bond model. The show is very international this year. We shot a big part of the premiere in Italy and we’re shooting in Australia, in Barcelona, all over Africa. So like the show’s going to have a scope the likes of which you’ve never seen, I think, on a network television show before. But then on top of that it’s also just more fun. the show is a lot of fun this year. And we hope it’ll be kind of addictive and great.”

Adding to the fun is the return of fan favorite character Rich Dotcom (Ennis Esmer), who is now working on the good side, though annoying the team all the while. Esmer, who’d appeared twice last season says his return was “a complete surprise.” He joked “It still feels like someone made a mistake at some point.”

Blindspot airs Friday nights at 8pm on NBC

Full interviews are viewable on our Facebook page:
Jaimie Alexander & Luke Mitchell
Audrey Esparza & Ashley Johnson
Sullivan Stapleton & Rob Brown
Ennis Esmer & Martin Gero

2018 marks the 40th Anniversary for one of the most popular and influential films of all time, “Superman the Movie.”

To help celebrate the event this year’s Kansas City Comic Con is bringing six of the film’s stars to Kansas City to help commemorate the milestone. While all of the guests will be available during the convention to meet fans and sign autographs, KCCC is offering an amazing “You’ll Believe a Man Can Fly” VIP ticket package, which includes the following:

*VIP Reserved Seating for BOTH the film panel at the convention AND at a screening of “Superman II: The Richard Donner Cut,” which will be held at the Alamo Drafthouse.

*A set of six special 11″x 14″ 40th Anniversary Prints (unsigned) featuring attending cast members Margot Kidder, Sarah Douglas, Jack O’ Halloran, Aaron Smolinski, Jeff East and Diane Sherry Case.

*A special 11″x 14″ 40th Anniversary Print featuring, and pre-signed by, Valerie Perrine, who will not be attending the convention.

*Priority line where VIP ticket holders can also have one item of their choice signed by any (or all) of the attending cast members.

*A professionally shot Group Photo opportunity with all of the attending cast members on site.

*Cool swag bag filled with free Superman and Superhero-related merchandise! Bag merchandise will vary and will include items from show sponsors, including Hallmark, Mezco Toys, Coolwaters Productions, Gentle Giant, DC Comics and Factory Entertainment.

*40th Anniversary poster featuring original and exclusive artwork from Capedwonder.com

For more information or to purchase your VIP Package ticket, click here.

The Kansas City Comic Con runs from Friday, November 10 through Sunday, November 12 at Bartle Hall in Kansas City, Missouri.

 

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When it comes to getting kids outside these days and away from phones, tablets or video games and getting outside and running around. I want that! Ultra Dash from PlayMonster is your answer to get those kids outside and running around. At first, this reminded me of a Bop-It toy, which is still cool but this is so much more. When the colors flash you need to move fast! You can design your own course with targets. There are also three modes to play. You can play against yourself or with all your friends in each of these modes:

• Beat the Clock: See how quickly you can run the course and hit the taggers as colors flash!
• Target Tally: Choose your time and then see how many targets you can hit!
• Relay Race: It’s team vs. team in a race to hit targets!

Ultra Dash has taken the age old game of tag and made it even cooler. As soon as the first color flashes, you start and race to the targets! The tagger knows if you tag the right color! If the light’s green and you tag a yellow target, the tagger will know and keep track! Re-setup and play again. This game features endless fun within its game modes. You will thank me later, when the parents have some house time all to themselves with the wonderful sounds of kids playing outside.

5 Powerful Gambling Secrets for More Winnings

 

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Kids these days are obsessed with mystery box and toys like Hatchimals where what you get is a surprise. These Egg Babies are super cute and a great alternative to the Hatchimals craze. They are priced at only $12.99 on Amazon, which is a steal to some other products that are similar. Series 1 features 6 different plush animal babies. These animals were very cute and VERY soft and squishy (my daughters words).

Here is a breakdown of each of the characters you see in the picture to the right:
Turtellini is a colorful turtle who’s outgoing, caring and livens up the party. She’s a true gift to those around her! Bubble Gum is a fluffy pink bunny full of confidence. She is a natural leader, has a true rock and roll spirit and loves to express herself through music.

Hamlet is a cheeky and mischievous pig. He can sometimes be found stirring up trouble but don’t worry, he’s sweet enough to clean up his mess. Kiwi is a true extrovert. This fun-loving chick loves to be in the spotlight.

Kiwi can usually be found center stage as lead singer of the band, Deviled Eggs. Patches is an energetic and determined puppy. He knows good sportsmanship and is more important than the final score.

Snowflake is a sweet and lovable kitty cat. She makes new friends wherever she goes. Her cheerful personality is truly infectious.

Wicked Cool Toys delivers another winner for your kids! Perfect time just for the upcoming holidays. Get those stockings filled with these great toys and get ready to see your kids enjoy opening their egg to reveal which FURRiendly surprise they receive and end up loving forever!

Concert Review: The Machine, Ridgefield Playhouse – Ridgefield, CT

 

Started in 2013, “Behind the Mikes” is your weekly Podcast that covers everything Pop Culture.  Join MovieMike, Loaf, Loey and, when we can find him, Brett as they discuss the week’s recent movies, share some trivia and put their irreverent spin on everything Pop Culture.  It’s a little naughty… but a lot of fun!

Click here to listen in weekly: https://www.podomatic.com/podcasts/behindthemikes

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2017 New York Comic Con

Friday, October 6th 2017
Jacob K. Javits Center, New York, NY

Our Score: 3 out of 5 Stars

All things pop culture descended on New York City specifically The Jacob K. Javits Center as the sprawling complex once again played host to the annual New York Comic Con held on October 5th-8th. The event now in its 11th year was once again put on by the Connecticut based company Reed Pop a company who organizes some of the largest pop culture events around the country. 2017 proved to be no exception and despite having to deal with a smaller venue space due to construction the event still boasted an over whelming number of vendors and appearances by some of the biggest names in comics, film and television.

Day two of the four day convention this year seemed a bit lacking in the way of panels and events as compared to previous however that did not thwart our attempt to take in the massive show floors and numerous cos-players as the con is always one we look forward to attending each year. Right off the bat we noticed that the entry to the event was much easier than in previous years as there was now two different entries for single/multiple day pass holders. This dramatically cut down the once endless serpent like line which in previous years engulfed the outside areas of the center. Despite a quicker entry once inside you could instantly see that the construction taking place in several key areas of the center such as the section which normally houses artist alley was causing large bottle necks of immovable lines. For those wanting to meet their favorite artist or creator gone was the spacious, well lit corridor which was always a nice break from the hustle and bustle of the main show floors but instead this year creators and artist were relegated to one of the structures basement levels which caused for a less than pleasurable viewing experience complete with cramped/impassible walk ways and a heightened room temperature that at times almost took your breath away.

After a couple escalator rides we made our way on to the main show floors. This area also seemed to take on the brunt of less floor space in other areas as walk ways and vendor spaces seemed much smaller than in previous years. As always the Funko booth commanded a lot of attention as those fortunate enough to be selected in the lottery process waited in endless lines in hopes to purchase one of the sought after convention exclusives. During our time at the booth we had the chance to grab a quick autograph from WWE Superstar and Funko Enthusiast Zach Ryder who had stopped by to check out his NYCC exclusive Pop! figure. Other notable vendors were the Middle Earth “Shadow of War”  booth which featured a life size dragon which convention goers could have their pictures on and Marvel vs. Capcom’s replica Ultron and throne display both of which garnered long wait times just to get a glimpse of.

Before leaving for the day we made quick stop in the autographing area which as always is a popular stop for most attendees. Some of the big names this year included Michael Rooker, Peter Capaldi and Mark Hamill among a long list of others. With prices ranging from $40 to $300 per signature we did not spend a lot of time in this area but there were plenty of others anxiously awaiting to spend their hard earned cash to meet their favorite actors and actresses.

With more and more events/panels being held off site it makes me question just how much longer the Javits center will remain a viable location for the Con. With early attendance figures coming in at around 200,000 for the four days the event shows no signs slowing down. Hopefully the center will be back to full functionality for next year’s event as the lack of space definitely impacted all aspects of the event. Either way, we can not wait for next year.

New York Comic Con has become the premier East-Coast destination for all things pop culture and 2017 was no different. New to the convention floor this year was Fisher Price’s Imaginext toy  line which features a wide variety of multi-faceted play sets, figures and vehicles taken from the pages of the DC universe. As an exclusive for this year’s convention Imaginext creators brought a special themed version of their DC Bat-Bot Xtreme for a lucky few to purchase. Media Mikes had the chance to speak with designer Rob Hageman about the piece as well as what the brand has in store for this year’s holiday season.

Ian Lawton: How did you come up with the original idea for the original DC Bat-Bot Xtreme?

Rob Hageman: We actually started off by making a smaller version of the toy. It had all the same workable features and everything but when we got it all done we realized it would be cooler if we made it a lot bigger. The smaller version was great but once kids got a hold of the larger version that’s the one that everyone really enjoyed.

IL: Can you tell us about some of the feature on the Bat-Bot Xtreme?

RH: I think the best feature is when you turn one of the action discs as it opens up the wings of the robot. Once you do that you have access to the punching power triggers on each hand. You can also fire discs out of the fists as you punch. Across the top are a number of buttons which shoot several rockets. On the opposite foot of the robot is another action disc which opens up the chest of the robot to reveal an elevator which takes figures up into the head of the robot. Also featured is a voice changer which allows you to talk into the back of the toy and transform your voice in to that of a robot. There is a hidden bat cycle in one foot of the robot which can be shot out while the other foot features a jail for locking up any bad guys.

IL: The Comic Con version of the Bat-Bot Xtreme is different from the one in stores. Can you tell us about that?

RH: There is a comic book version of this robot that is much more metallic than the retail one. The retail one is still super cool but it’s done in standard blue plastic where the 300 we did for Comic Con have a special blue metallic paint job that is closer to what is seen in the comic. With this special version I really was trying to make sure it looked as close to the one pictured in the book. The exclusive version also comes with in special packaging featuring some really great art work, magnetic switches and LED lights.

IL: How do you decide which characters you are going to make into a figure?

RH: Each year all the designers get together and draw a bunch of concepts. We will take them to the team and give them our best pitches for each one. From there we work as a team to finalize designs and figure out which look the best, are the most relevant and will help Imaginext flush out the DC Universe.

IL: What other characters/figures are you set to release?

RH: We have Mongul and Green Lantern set to come out along with Black Canary and Night Wing around Christmas time. Also set to come is Steppenwolf as well as Swamp Thing and Survivor Batman. I think that’s probably one of our best packs we have done so far.

IL: How would someone go about becoming a toy designer?

Designer Rob Hageman and Media Mikes Ian Lawton

RH: When I was a kid I loved to draw and it was something I always did. I would draw my toys along with other toys I may have wanted. I also drew a lot of robots as I love robots. When I got to high school a teacher of mine had a friend of his who worked for a toy company come to class. He brought in all the things he had worked on and told us it was his job to make toys. I knew then it was something I wanted to do. I kept drawing more and more and after high school I went to art school and focused on toy design. I am now doing what I wanted to do ever since high school.

IL: What has been your favorite toy that you have created/worked on?

RH: My favorite is the regular Bat-Bot which transforms from a tank to a robot. It was an uphill battle for me to sell that in as I wanted the transformation to be able to happen while the toy was still in the package. I wanted there to be two different forms while making things easy to maneuver and play with. The voice on it is really great as well.