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Feb 24, 2005

New Fanfilm
source: Catwoman Copycat

The people behind this latest Catwoman fan film sent me a link to their site. They have posted a small featurette of their production "Catwoman Copycat" . Hit the link to visit their site


DC's Batman Begins tie ins
source: DC Comics

DC has released some info on their various tie ins for Batman Begins. First off are some statues featuring Batman, Ra's Al Ghul, The Batmobile and the Scarecrow

The following is a list of Comic tie ins DC has planned for this year.

The BATMAN BEGINS MOVIE ADAPTATION, a 64-page Prestige Format Special written by Scott Beatty with art by Kilian Plunkett & Serge LaPointe.The BATMAN BEGINS MOVIE ADAPTATION is scheduled to arrive in stores on June 22 with a cover price of $6.99.

The BATMAN BEGINS: THE MOVIE & OTHER TALES OF THE DARK KNIGHT TP, a 160-page edition collecting the BATMAN BEGINS MOVIE ADAPTATION, along with four classic Batman tales: a rare story from the SECRET ORIGINS TP, written by Dennis O ' Neil with art by Dick Giordano; DETECTIVE COMICS #757, written by Greg Rucka with art by Rick Burchett & Rodney Ramos; BATMAN #604, written by Ed Brubaker with art by Scott McDaniel & Andy Owens; and BATMAN: LEGENDS OF THE DARK KNIGHT #168, written by Bill Willingham with art by Tom Fowler.

The BATMAN BEGINS: THE MOVIE & OTHER TALES OF THE DARK KNIGHT TP is scheduled to arrive in stores on June 22 with a cover price of $12.99 U.S. BATMAN VILLAINS Secret Files 2005, a surprising Special exploring the world of Batman ' s enemies through the eyes of one of their own! Learn why Gotham City is such a magnet for crime and discover the secrets of the shape-changing super-villain Clayface! BATMAN VILLAINS Secret Files 2005 is written by Bruce Jones, Steve Purcell and others with art by Ed Barrows, Mike Mignola, Kevin Nowlan, and others and a cover by Al Barrionuevo & Bit. It is scheduled to arrive in stores on May 25 with a cover price of $4.99 U.S.

YEAR ONE: BATMAN/SCARECROW, a 2-part 48-page Prestige Format miniseries written by Bruce Jones with art by Sean Murphy and a cover by Zach Howard & Jay Leisten. YEAR ONE: BATMAN/SCARECROW goes back to the very beginning, to Jonathan Crane ' s birth and questionable lineage, following his story up to his first battle with Batman and Robin! A trail of death and straw leads the Dynamic Duo in a race to identify and stop Gotham ' s newest serial killer, but the demons that shaped the Scarecrow aren ' t so easily revealed!

YEAR ONE: BATMAN/SCARECROW #1 is scheduled to arrive in stores on May 25 with a cover price of $5.99 U.S.

BATMAN ALLIES Secret Files 2005, a gripping new 48-page Special written by Russell Lissau, Andersen Gabrych and Will Pfeifer with art by Brad Walker, Al Barrionuevo, Phil Hester, Ande Parks, Pete Woods, Ron Randall, Tom Derenick and Bit and a cover by Barrionuevo & Bit. Since " War Games " the Dark Knight has been operating alone ... now discover how he ' s been affected by the loss of his partners in crimefighting! In the lead story, Batman must face Gotham City ' s dangers alone for the first time in years. Plus, the GCPD turns its sights on Batman's and Spoiler ' s death leads to a new chapter in Batman ' s life.BATMAN ALLIES Secret Files 2005 is scheduled to arrive in stores on June 29 with a cover price of $4.99 U.S.

YEAR ONE: BATMAN/RA ' S AL GHUL, a 2-part 48-page Prestige Format miniseries written by Devin Grayson with art and cover by Paul Gulacy & Jimmy Palmiotti. Imagine a world in which no one could die - not from accidents, murder, or natural disasters. This is the world that Ra's al Ghul has left for Batman - and when the Gotham City's hospitals, homes and streets begin filling with the undead, the Dark Knight is the only one with a chance to discover the secret behind their continued animation. YEAR ONE: BATMAN/RA ' S AL GHUL #1 is scheduled to arrive in stores on June 15 with a cover price of $5.99 U.S.

The BATMAN BEGINS MOVIE ADAPTATION and the BATMAN BEGINS: THE MOVIE & OTHER TALES OF THE DARK KNIGHT TP will be advance-solicited in the March issue of Previews (Volume XV #3). BATMAN VILLAINS Secret Files 2005 and YEAR ONE: BATMAN/SCARECROW #1 will be solicited in the March issue of Previews (Volume XV #3). BATMAN ALLIES Secret Files 2005 and YEAR ONE: BATMAN/RA ' S AL GHUL #1 will be solicited in the April issue of Previews (Volume XV #4).


Feb 21, 2005

Christian Bale talks Batman
source: Comics Continuum

The Comics Continuum has an excellent lengthy interview with Christian Bale. Bale talks about his knowledge of the character, the previous films and more.

Based on that interview, it looks like Christian has done his homework on Batman...


Batman Begins post production news
source: Batman on Film

'Batman on Film' is reporting that the film's composers James Newton Howard and Hans Zimmer will go next month to London to write the score for the film. Composing it could start in April


Gail Simone to write Justice League Unlimited Episode
source: Comics Continuum

Current Birds of Prey and upcoming Action Comics writer Gail Simone has added Justice League Unlimited to her list of work. She has written an episode titled "Double Date" which features two of the Birds of Prey (Black Canary and Huntress) Along with Green Arrow and Question.

Full details including the voice cast and Gail's thoughts on her episode are Here

Pete Woods and Catwoman
source: Newsarama

Newsarama interviewed former Robin and Detective Comics artist Pete Woods about his upcoming stint on Catwoman. To accomodate Pete even further, the Catwoman title will have its paper stock upgraded. Pete's thoughts and sample work can be found Here


Bat Alumni news: Ed Brubaker goes to the Movies
source: Newsarama

Former Batman writer Ed Brubaker will be joining current Batscreen writer David Goyer for a film based on Brubaker's work "The Fall. Full details are Here


Feb 20, 2005

Batman Begins highlights at Wonder Con
source: Comics Continuum, Newsarama

Christian Bale made a surprise appearance at San Francisco's Wonder Con. He revealed that he has signed for three films. Bale also had the following to say

A six minute clip was shown which featured scenes with a young Bruce, Carmine Falcone, Ra's Al Ghul and the Scarecrow. The scenes showing the death of his parents was also shown.

Newsarama has a more detailed and spoiler filled description of the footage Here (SPOILERS) The Comics Continuum has a smaller description Here (Minor Spoilers)


More Wondercon Highlights
source: Comics Continuum, Newsarama

There weren't too many Batman comic related items at this years Wonder Con but nonetheless here are some interesting highlights

Superman/Batman: Issue 19 will be a prelude to a new Supergirl monthly written by former Batman writer Jeph Loeb and artist Ian Churchhill who is also drawing this particular issue. Issue 20 will see the return of original artists Ed McGuinness and Dexter Vines who will illustrate a six issue arc where the World's Finest face off against a group of heroes called the Maxims after they accuse the duo of killing one of their own.

Birds of Prey: Gail Simone plans on taking the Birds to Singapore where they'll meet a variety of foes new and old. Former Batman and Black Canary mentor Wildcat will also appear in this story

Bob Wayne on All Star Batman and Robin: "Frank always has tricks up his sleeve. This isn't going to be out there as DK2 was. This is going to be a little more reeled in and classic versions of the characters."

Gotham Central: Greg Rucka said he was surprised by co-writer Ed Brubaker's departure. Rucka also stated that the future of the title is "Hazy" and one of the upcoming arcs will involve the police finding a dead boy dressed as Robin.


Various Animated shows renewed
source: Comics Continuum

The Comics Continuum is reporting that the "The Batman" animated series has made the Kid WB network's 2005-2006 season. The new season will mark the debut of Batgirl to the show.

The Continuum is also reporting that both Justice League Unlimited and Teen Titans have also been renewed.


Batman Begins to appear at World's Fair
source: Comics Continuum

Batman will make a very special return to the Japanese silver screens. Batman Begins will be shown in the U.S Pavilion at the 2005 World's Fair Expo 2005

In other Batman Begins news, the merchandise related to this film continues to grow. Head down to Blue Nova International for some of their Batman Begins items and head down to Superhero Hype for a press release regarding Batman related items at the Toy Fair


Feb 16, 2005

New Pictures added to Official site
source: Batman Begins site

Head down to the official site to see some new pictures from the film.


Christian Bale gets nod from former Batman Keaton
source: Dallas Morning News via Batman on Film

Former Batman Michael Keaton gave his thoughts about Christian Bale to the Dallas Morning news. Bale has got Keaton's vote

"I'm looking forward to the new Batman," he says convincingly. "Christian Bale is such a good actor. He can brood and he can be droll, which is what you need for Batman."

"I've got a strong female following due to Batman, and I'm sure Christian will, too," "I still get letters. Funny is attractive to women. That's something I learned early, and I tried to make Batman wry and droll."

To Read more including his brief thoughts on Joel Schumacher's films, Hit the link above to the Dallas Morning News

Sean Connery thinks very highly of Pierce Brosnan as James Bond so it is nice to see a similar vibe between current and former Batmen


Feb 12, 2005

Scott McDaniel to do art in ROBIN
source: Newsarama

Newsarama is reporting that as of Issue 139, Scott McDaniel will take over the artwork of ROBIN. Head down to Newsarama to read Scott's thoughts on his new assignment


Batman Begins cast to do voices for Game
source: IGN

EA has announced that the Batman Begins video game will feature voices from some of the actors from the film. In addition to Christian Bale, Michael Caine, Katie Holmes, Cillian Murphy, Liam Neeson, Tom Wilkinson and Morgan Freeman will reprise their roles for the game.


Batman Begins pictures from the UK Toy Fair
source: Legions of Gotham

Those wanting to see what merchandise is in store for Batman Begins can get a sneak peak by heading down to the Legions of Gotham forum Here


Feb 10, 2005

DC Direct to make Batman Begins line
source: DC Comics

The following is a press release from DC and their own Batman Begins line

AMERICAN INTERNATIONAL TOY FAIR IN NEW YORK February 8th, 2005 - DC Direct, DC Comics' toy and collectibles brand, will unveil its line of Batman Begins authentic movie collectibles at the 2005 American International Toy Fair. The line includes several Batman Statues, a Batman Bust, a Batman 13" deluxe figure, Ra's Al Ghul and Scarecrow Mini-Statues, a Batmobile Replica, and a Batarang Prop Replica. About the DC Direct line of Batman Begins Movie Collectibles:

BATMAN BEGINS: CHRISTIAN BALE AS BATMAN STATUE Having mastered an array of training and fighting methods, Bruce Wayne returns to Gotham City to strike fear in those who prey upon the innocent. This limited edition, hand-painted cold-cast porcelain statue measures approximately 14" high x 8" wide x 8.5" deep, includes a full-color Certificate of Authenticity and is packaged in a 4-color box. Limited edition of 2,500. Price: $195.00 U.S. / $299.95 CAN. In stores April 27, 2005

BATMAN BEGINS: BATMOBILE REPLICA Sculpted directly from the actual 3D designs for the Batmobile in Batman Begins. No car has ever been like the Batmobile, or been called upon to perform incredible feats that Batman demands of his unique vehicle. This limited edition, hand-painted cold-cast porcelain replica measures approximately 4.25" high x 6.5" wide x 10" deep, includes a full-color Certificate of Authenticity and is packaged in packaged in an elegant black gift box with foil stamping. Limited edition of 2,600. Price: $195.00 U.S. / $299.95 CAN. In stores May 4, 2005

BATMAN BEGINS: BATARANG PROP REPLICA The Batarang Prop Replica is an authentic "life-sized" movie replica. This limited edition, hand-painted cold-cast porcelain replica measures approximately 2" high x 11.5" wide x 5.75" deep, includes a full-color Certificate of Authenticity and is packaged in an elegant black gift box with foil stamping. Limited edition of 1,500. Price: $150.00 U.S. / $231.00 CAN. In stores May 11, 2005

BATMAN BEGINS: BATMAN IN FLIGHT STATUE Suspended in mid-air, the Caped Crusader cascades into the shadowy streets of Gotham City to unleash his vengeance against evildoers. This limited edition, hand-painted cold-cast porcelain statue measures approximately 11" high x 8.5" wide x 5.5" deep, includes a full-color Certificate of Authenticity and is packaged in a 4-color box. Limited edition of 4,000. Price: $195.00 U.S. / $299.95 CAN. In stores May 11, 2005

BATMAN BEGINS: BATMAN ON ROOFTOP STATUE Batman, guardian of Gotham City, stands watch and is ready to leap into danger at any given moment. This limited edition, hand-painted cold-cast porcelain statues measures approximately 7" high x 4" wide x 4" deep, includes a full-color Certificate of Authenticity and is packaged in a 4-color box. Limited edition of 3,500. Price: $89.99 U.S. / $139.99 CAN. In stores May 18, 2005

BATMAN BEGINS: CHRISTIAN BALE AS BATMAN BUST Batman is the masked crusader who uses his strength, intellect and an array of high-tech inventions to fight the sinister forces that threaten Gotham City. This hand-painted cold-cast porcelain bust measures approximately 6.25" high x 3.5" wide x 3.5" deep and is packaged in a 4-color box. Price: $45.00 U.S. / $61.95 CAN. In stores June 1, 2005

BATMAN BEGINS: 13" CHRISTIAN BALE AS BATMAN DELUXE COLLECTOR FIGURE DC Direct's first ever 13" collector figure features Christian Bale as Batman! Based on the new film from Warner Bros. Pictures, this Batman 13" figure includes an authentically detailed fabric costume, an alternate set of hands, a grappling gun, Batarangs, and a stand to display the figure. This collector figure also features a full-Color Certificate of Authenticity. Packaged in a deluxe 4-color window box with a 5th panel. Price: $89.99 U.S. / $139.99 CAN. In stores June 8, 2005

BATMAN BEGINS: CHRISTIAN BALE AS BATMAN MINI-STATUE All Batman Begins mini-statues can be displayed together to create dramatic fight scenes. This hand-painted cold-cast porcelain mini-statue measures approximately 4" high x 2.75" wide x 2.75"" deep and is packaged in a 4-color box. Price: $29.99 U.S. / $45.99 CAN. In stores May 25, 2005

BATMAN BEGINS: KEN WATANABE AS RA'S AL GHUL MINI-STATUE All Batman Begins mini-statues can be displayed together to create dramatic fight scenes. Ra's Al Ghul guides the League of Shadows and if the legends are true, he has done so for longer than a mortal man is entitled to live. This hand-painted cold-cast porcelain mini-statue measures approximately 4" high x 2.75" wide x 2.75" deep and is packaged in a 4-color box. Price: $29.99 U.S. / $45.99 CAN. In stores June 1, 2005

BATMAN BEGINS: CILLIAN MURPHY AS SCARECROW MINI-STATUE All Batman Begins mini-statues can be displayed together to create dramatic fight scenes. Dr. Jonathan Crane has found the way to unleash fear and uses it against Batman as Scarecrow. This hand-painted cold-cast porcelain mini-statue measures approximately 4" high x 2.75" wide x 2.75" deep and is packaged in a 4-color box. Price: $29.99 U.S. / $45.99 CAN. In stores June 8, 2005


Frank Miller on All Star Batman and Robin
source: Newsarama

Newsarama had a small interview with Frank Miller in regards to his new series with Jim Lee. Here are some snippets:

On why he signed on to this series:“It’s Batman & Robin, the Boy Wonder!” Jim wanted to work with me. It looked like fun. Once Jim said he was ready to run with my notion of featuring a very young Dick Grayson as the story's hero, we were rolling.”

On tone and direction of this maxi series:“Year Three. Bats is feeling his oats—very young, maybe acting a little crazy, but he knows exactly what he's doing. He's just a bit sloppier about doing it than he's going to eventually get.”

The full interview is Here


Ed Brubaker and "The Man who laughs"
source: Pulse

Ed Brubaker gives some info and highlights regarding his upcoming one shot "The Man who Laughs" The story is the first meeting between Batman and the Joker. Full Interview is Here

It also looks like this could be Ed's last Batman work for the time being. He recently signed an exclusive with Marvel Comics


Batman Animated series volume 2 DVD review
source: IGN DVD

IGN has reviewed the second Animated DVD set featuring Batman. The set got an overall 7 mostly due to outdated video and audio but certainly not the quality of the shows. Hit this link to read the review.

Feb 6, 2005

Batman Begins Superbowl Ad
source: Batman Begins Official site

The long awaited Superbowl Spot has finally been put online. Superhero Hype has links to it in different sizes and formats. Choose your size and format by going Here


New Batman Begins pictures
source: Various

Some New pictures (And Big ones at that)of Batman have surfaced online. Here is one place they can be seen


Morgan Freeman wins SAG award for Best Supporting Actor
source: Sagawards.org

Batman Begins star Morgan Freeman was honoured by the Screen Actor's Guild as they presented him an award for 'Outstanding Performance by a Male Actor in a Supporting Role' for his work in 'Million Dollar Baby'. Freeman is also nominated in the Academy Awards for the same category


Feb 5, 2005

Official Batman Begins Website updated

The Official website has been redesigned and has a few more features available. There are small interviews and downloadable wallpaper and icons.


Feb 3, 2005

A sneak peak at Scarecrow (Stage 1)
source: Ebay

Ebay has a picture of a painting of the Scarecrow. The bidding for the item has closed but the paining can be seen by going Here (SPOILERS)


Batsuit and Batmobile specs
source: Filmforce

Filmforce has a two page article which sums up some interesting facts about the new Batmobile and Batsuit. Go here to read it


Feb 1, 2005

Batman Begins Superbowl Ad News
source: Batman on Film

Batman on Film is reporting that Warner Brothers has obtained two thirty second spots for the Superbowl. Chances are that one could be for Batman Begins.

IMDB is reporting that Batman Begins will be 134 minutes long

And finally, Model maker Hornby has announced that they will have a Batman Begins line


New Art Team for Nightwing
source: Newsarama

Starting with Issue 107, The Nightwing title will be getting a new art team. Artist Phil Hester gave some thoughts about his new job

Phil's take on Nightwing: I'm trying to balance the intensity of Batman with the joyfulness of Robin. He's powerful and dark, like Batman, at the same time, lithe and playful like Robin. In some ways he's a better hero than Batman. I think he has a better perspective on fighting evil in general, whereas Batman seems so focused on Gotham City and his rogues gallery.

The full interview is Here


Scarecrow: Year One Details
source: Newsarama

DC has started its own hyping of Batman Begins by giving one of its key characters, the Scarecrow a one shot. Artist Sean Murphy gives his thoughts on this one shot Here