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(For news from previous months, click on the "News archives" link on the left)
Sep 29, 2003
Batman 619 to get a second printing, Also Batman/Superman sells out as well
source: Comics Continuum
Good news for those who may have been too late in getting their hands on the concluding chapter of the "Hush" storyline. DC will reprint BATMAN 619 with a different cover and release it October 22.
Another DC comic that sold out was Batman/Superman: Secret files. The title sold out at DC before its October 1 release.
Was Orson Welles going to make a Batman film long ago?
source: Comic Book Resources
Over the weekend, Mark Millar wrote an article saying that Orson Welles was planning on making a serious Batman film in the 40's which would have had a slew of his Rogues Gallery members. It sounds like an interesting read, but is it true? Many people are saying its not. However read Millar's article for yourself and decide. The article is Here
Batman: Intimidation Game's possible release date
source: Yahoo
According to Yahoo's Greg Dean Schmitz, Batman: Intimidation Game could be released on July 4, 2005 possibly pitting it against Indiana Jones IV
Catwoman movie report and Catwoman is revealed!!!
source: Hollywood North Report
And here is a report from Hollywood North Report regarding the Catwoman film. The site has pictures from set but as of now, the site appears to be down. Here is the report
HNR was present today at Hastings and Hornby in Downtown Vancouver for the start of principle photography on DC's 1st comic book feature since 1997's "Batman & Robin". It was an exciting time with flocks of tourists and paparazzi all over the place. We would like to commend WB's production personnel for their courtesy in dealing fairly with the crowd. Now here come the pictures. The scene being shot today involved Patience Price(Halle Berry) walking down the street carrying a box containing the Egyptian Mao cat. We were able to snap a few shots of Halle Berry conversing with French Director Pitof, along with some shots of the general area, Catwoman's motorcycle and what could be Gotham City license plates(depending on if the film is set there or not) Also we received the official synopsis submitted to the city by the production office: "Catwoman" is a feature film based on characters created by DC Comics. In this new adventure Patience Price, a mild mannered graphic artist, is murdered in order to keep her silent about an accidental discovery she made. An ancient myth is played out, when an Egyptian Mao cat, indebted to Patience for saving her it's own life, breathes life back into the young woman. Patience is reborn with an independent attitude, carefree behavior and the heightened senses of a cat. Now she must investigate the circumstances behind her murder and learn to accept both parts of herself.
Can this film get any worse. That costume is horrible!!!. I think I'll pass on this film.
September 26, 2003
Batman 619 sells out
source: DC Comics
After twelve months of nail-biting suspense and excitement, the final chapter of "Hush" by Jeph Loeb, Jim Lee and Scott Williams arrived in stores yesterday in BATMAN #619. Now, just one day later, all three editions of this landmark issue are sold out at DC Comics
"This is, of course, fantastic news. Knowing that folks are gobbling up the end of our story is very, very rewarding. Thank you all - and Jim and I will be back soon," says Loeb. "Hey, wait a minute - I haven't even gone to the store yet! Gotta go!"
"I can't think of a better send-off to an incredible year than having this issue sell out in one day," says Lee. "I've been just as anxious as the fans for the issue to come out, and to see it so well-received is the icing on the cake."
"Jeph, Jim and Scott finished up their amazing run on BATMAN with yet another fantastic, sold-out issue," says Bob Wayne, DC's VP - Sales & Marketing. "While we're sold out on most items from this run, we still have a few issues available for reorder, along with some upcoming items."
The BATMAN: HUSH Volume 2 HC (SEP030223) is solicited in the September issue of Previews (Volume XIII #9). This title collects BATMAN #613-619 and is scheduled to arrive in stores on December 3. The BATMAN AND NIGHTWING POSTER (AUG030288) is available for advance reorder and is scheduled to arrive in stores on February 18 with a price of $7.95 U.S. The following issues of BATMAN are available for reorder: * BATMAN #615 (MAR030182) * BATMAN #616 (APR030146) * BATMAN #617 (MAY030139) * BATMAN #618 (JUN030139) The CATWOMAN STATUE (SEP030327), designed by Jim Lee and sculpted by John Matthews, is solicited in the September issue of Previews (Volume VIII #9) and is scheduled to be in stores on March 31.
Costume Designer for Batman: Intimidation?
According to my good friend Frank D., Lindy Hemming has been named as the costume designer for the film. She has worked on all four Brosnan James Bonds, The Tomb Raider films, The Harry Potter series and several others. She won an Oscar for her work on Topsy Turvy.
She sounds like a great choice. Bill of Batman on Film has also heard this. Bill also added that he heard that Nolan does not want a Rubber costume.
Sep 24, 2003
Mystery of the Batwoman to be aired at Comic Book Convention
source: Comics Continuum
Here is some news regarding the animated film Batman: Mystery of the Batwoman. The film will be shown at the Los Angeles Comic and Science Fiction convention at noon Sunday. Afterwards Kevin Conroy Michael Reaves (writer) and Margaret Dean (Producer) will be on hand and a limited number of posters will be given away.
If anyone lives in the area and is interested, the convention is located at Shrine Auditorium Expo Center, 700 West 32nd Street. Admission is $6
Sep 21, 2003
A Correction to make!!!
It seems in all the excitement I made a slight mistake. The actors in the running for James Gordon are Kurt Russell and DENNIS Quaid not his brother Randy. I apologise for the mistake and would like to thank Bill Ramey of Batman on Film for pointing it out.
Sep 19, 2003
Some Brief Movie news
source: Batman on Film
Bill has some additional information which he has heard from his sources. First he is reporting that new castings will be announced in the upcoming weeks. Second, Expect to see some flashbacks in the film (which may involve Batman's origin) and Kurt Russell's name has sprung up again for James Gordon.
Russell's name once came up for Gordon a few years back. However Randy Quaid is still a candidate for Gordon
Catwoman casting news:
source: Hollywood Reporter,
Variety
The Catwoman film has two more cast members. Benjamin Bratt has signed on to play Detective Tom Lone. The second actor to join the film is Lambert Wilson who will play Georges. He is the husband for Sharon Stone's character Laurel; The head of a cosmetic company.
Sep 17, 2003
Director of Photography and Production Designers for Batman: Intimidation
source: Superhero Hype
Superhero Hype has learned of two crew members for the Batman film. Wally Pfister will be the director of Photography and Nathan Crowley will be the production designer. Both have worked with Chris Nolan in his previous films. For more details, Head down to Superhero Hype
Randy Quaid for Jim Gordon?
source: Batman on Film
Bill is saying that his sources are telling him that Randy Quaid's name has been mentioned for the role of James Gordon. Gordon in the film will be a man in his 40's
Batman Animated Boxed set on the way?
source: The Digital Bits
Digital Bits has some info that may interest fans of the animated series. Could the long requested Box set of the animated series be a year away?
With all the news lately about different TV shows being released on DVD, and with an industry conference on this very subject set for next month, we've learned that Warner is planning on releasing more animated TV product on our favorite format. Specifically, sources are telling us that 2004 could see the release of full seasons of Tiny Toon Adventures and Batman: The Animated Series from the studio, with the possibility of Animaniacs and more superhero animated TV product further down the line.
Sep 14, 2003
Various Batman rumours
source: Batman on Film,
Dark Horizons
Bale casting gets thumbs up from Jeph Loeb
source: Comics Continuum
In addition to the overwhelming positive reaction to the news that Christian Bale is Batman,
Current Batman writer Jeph Loeb chipped in with his thoughts. He said that Bale is a "a terrific choice." and added
"He brings with him an air of mystery, danger and wealth,"
"And, from what I'm told, the chicks think he's hot!"
Catwoman movie news: Budget details
source: Fox News
Village Roadshow, the production company that worked on the Matrix has told Fox news that they are committing 100 million dollars to the Catwoman film.
WB to make a Flash TV show, but not what you expect
source: SuperheroHype
Normally I don't post news regarding other DC (or for that matter any other non Batman characters) but it appears that for every good thing we hear from WB, it is coupled with something down right ridiculous. Look at what they have planned for The Flash!!
The Flash, an ordinary man with superhuman speed, is headed for The WB's Fall 2004 schedule, as the network has committed to a pilot based on the DC Comics superhero. Writer/producer Todd Komarnicki is writing the pilot and will executive produce.
Just like The WB's Smallville, the new take will have a "no tights, no flights" philosophy, which means the character won't be clad in the classic red suit. He'll also have a cool 21st-century mantra that will guide his life.
"Once our hero gets his calling, he's given the advice, 'Live fast so others don't die young,' " Komarnicki tells Variety.
The new version will also add another element - time travel. The hero will be a fresh-out-of-college Gothamite who discovers he has the ability to move very fast - so fast, in fact, that he can travel backward or forward in time. He'll use that skill to right wrongs, save lives and kick ass.
Each week will have self-contained storylines, or missions, in addition to ongoing plot points. A mentor will train him and there's a legacy of Flashes before him.
A Flash that doesn't wear a costume, is a Gothamite and time travels?. I think I'll pass on this.
And Finally
Batman continues to rake in the dollars for DC. DC Direct announced that their Batman statue has already sold out. Just days after its September 4 release.September 11, 2003
Christian Bale is Batman!!!!
source: Warner Brothers
It's official. Warner Brothers has announced That Christian Bale will be the next Batman. Here is the press release from WB (courtesy of SuperheroHype)
CHRISTIAN BALE CAST AS BRUCE
WAYNE IN WARNER BROS. PICTURES' UPCOMING BATMAN MOVIE DIRECTED BY CHRISTOPHER
NOLAN
BURBANK, CA, 11 September 2003 – Christian Bale has been cast in the starring
role of Bruce Wayne in Warner Bros. Pictures' upcoming Batman movie, to be
directed by Christopher Nolan and produced by Emma Thomas. The announcement was
made today by Jeff Robinov, President of production for Warner Bros. Pictures.
Principal photography on the film is expected to begin in early 2004. The movie
is written by David Goyer and Nolan, and will follow the early career of The
Dark Knight.
Said Nolan, "What I see in Christian is the ultimate embodiment of Bruce Wayne.
He has exactly the balance of darkness and light that we were looking for."
Robinov stated, "Now that we've found the best person to play Batman, we are
really looking forward to moving ahead with the rest of our casting, and are
excited about the exceptional group we are assembling."
Bale, who first drew critical attention for his starring role in "Empire of the
Sun," has starred in such diverse motion pictures as "Little Women," "Portrait
of a Lady," "Metroland," "American Psycho" and "Laurel Canyon."
-Bale was a fan favourite from the
get go so most people will be happy. It is also a sign (perhaps a good one) that
this film is ready to roll. Also it is nice to see someone who has the same
physique as the character. A.J
September 10, 2003
Batman casting rumours: And then there were two?
source: Batman on Film
Bill has some interesting news on his site. He is reporting that of the actors that have been mentioned, the list has been narrowed down to two. Bill also mentions the one of the actors is reluctant to take the role as it may diminish his chance of being part of another franchise
Though Bill won't reveal who the two candidates are, I'm guessing that one of them is Christian Bale since he is also rumoured for Bond. Who could the other be?
September 8, 2003
Sharon Stone Confirms involvment in Catwoman
source: Superherohype
Actress Sharon Stone has told both E! and Entertainment tonight that she will be in the upcoming Catwoman film alongside Halle Berry.
Batman movie news
source: Batman on Film
One of Bill's sources has chipped in some information regarding AICN's bit about Egyptian themed sets. The source is saying that only the Scarecrow is the villain and that the Egyptian sets will involve Scarecrow and his fear gas induced hallucinations.
In other news The Latino Review is saying that Emma Thomas has been named producer of the film. She has produced Insomnia and Memento. Both of which were directed by Chris Nolan.
Batman Rise of Sin Tzu news: Special Bonuses for those who pre
order
source: Newsarama
Press Release
Batman: Rise of Sin Tzu Videogames Including the Special Collector's Items Will Be Available Through Pre-Order on September 4
Batman fans and toy collectors alike have a reason to celebrate! Ubi Soft Entertainment joins with Mattel Inc., DC Comics, and Warner Bros. Consumer Products to commemorate the launch of a new villain in the Batman universe by creating special collector's items exclusively for the Batman: Rise of Sin Tzu videogame.
Developed and published by Ubi Soft Entertainment, 15,000 copies of Batman: Rise of Sin Tzu Commemorative Edition will include an exclusive Mattel(TM) Batman action figure and another 15,000 Commemorative Edition units will include an exclusive Mattel Batgirl action figure. Both will be dressed in classic costumes - Batman in his classic blue and grey costume and Batgirl in classic black and yellow. These rare, Commemorative Edition products can be purchased at GameStop (www.gamestop.com) and Electronics Boutique (www.ebgames.com) and are available now through pre-order.
Additionally, comic book fans and gamers alike will be thrilled to learn that an exclusive Commemorative Lithograph Edition for the Nintendo GameCube(TM) only will include a four color, two-sided Sin Tzu lithograph designed by comics legend and Sin Tzu co-creator Jim Lee. The Commemorative Edition lithograph features both Sin Tzu and Batman on the front and Sin Tzu's biography on the back, written by Sin Tzu co-creator Flint Dille. This exclusive Commemorative Lithograph Edition for Nintendo GameCube is available now through pre-order at GameStop (www.gamestop.com) and Electronics Boutique (www.ebgames.com). All retailers will offer this exclusive product at launch while supplies last.
Developed by Ubi Soft's Montreal Studios, Batman: Rise of Sin Tzu stays true to the Batman franchise with intense, action-packed gameplay and challenging villains. Featuring Batman's loyal allies Robin, Nightwing, and Batgirl, the game also includes a brand new enemy unlike any Batman has ever battled, Sin Tzu, plus three other villains never before seen in a Batman video game: Clayface, Scarecrow, and Bane.
A master in the deadly art of war, Sin Tzu is driven by a lone desire - to conquer. Scouring the world in search of only the worthiest adversaries, Sin Tzu has descended upon Gotham City to defeat the Caped Crusader. Game features include:
-- Two-Player Cooperative Gameplay: Go at it alone as Batman or recruit backup. Invite a friend into the battle as Nightwing, Robin, or Batgirl in two-player cooperative fighting mode.
-- 35 Batman Attacks: Topple Sin Tzu's soldiers of crime with more than 35 martial arts moves and dazzling combos.
-- 12 Levels: Battle your way through the Gotham City Docks, Crime Alley, Arkham Asylum and more.
-- Play as Batman, Robin, Nightwing, or Batgirl in single-player mode: Each character features unique fighting moves.
-- Bonus Content: 27 minute "Making of a Villain" documentary with commentary by Sin Tzu's co-creators, comics legend Jim Lee and award-winning scriptwriter Flint Dille.
Batman: Rise of Sin Tzu has an ESRB rating of "T" for Teen and will have a suggested retail price of $39.99. It is scheduled to ship mid-October 2003.
About Batman: Rise of Sin Tzu:
A revolutionary new era in Batman history begins with the introduction of the new character, Sin Tzu. Beyond madness, beyond evil, Sin Tzu is an enemy unlike Batman has ever battled. He is a master in the deadly art of war, driven by a single desire: to conquer. Scouring the world in search of only the worthiest adversaries, Sin Tzu has descended upon Gotham City and marshaled the infamous villains Bane, Clayface, and Scarecrow into a superior fighting force against the Caped Crusader. In turn, Batman has called upon his allies Robin, Nightwing, and Batgirl to stem the tide of this new rising evil.
September 5, 2003
More Batman movie news and rumours
source: Dark Horizons,
Aintitcool
The news and rumours are beginning to pile up now that casting is underway. First off Dark Horizons has this tidbit
It's expected to begin production in Feb 2004 with either Christian Bale, Josh Hartnett or Cillian Murphy from '28 Days Later'. Murphy seems the most likely to get it as Hartnett doesn't seem to be interested and Bale is stalling because if he takes on Batman he knows he can kiss goodbye to a future chance at the Bond role. Whilst all this talk is running rampant about the hero, a piece out of left field came today about the villain - 'Kate' went to see Russell Crowe's band '30 Odd Foot of Grunts' when they were recently on tour and Crowe apparently mentioned he's been offered a "damn bad guy role thing that the guy from Memento's doing".
Harry Knowles also has some interesting news. Here is what he has received.Hi there Harry, I live in Shepperton village, England, about 3 minetes from the Studio. the pub that I drink in often has film crew and extras having a pint or two. I asked around after reading your Batman news and it seems that the rumours are true. A member of the construction crew told me the sets are being constructed including a giant lair in the shape of a spiders web. Speculating, the only thing that i can think of would be the black widow played in the the 60s by Bette Davis. There is also supposed to be a few of the sets with a strong egyptian theme but he was fuzzy on the detials as they are only head height in order to make room for the remainder of them to be computer generated. Role on next year thats what I say! Nettleduke
And finally the title for the film has had a slight tweak. It is now referred to as Batman: Intimidation Game.
I don't believe Josh Hartnett is involved with this film in anyway. After all he turned down Superman 4 times and has made it clear he is not interested in superhero films. The bit about Bale choosing either Bond or Batman sounds legit as it was also mentioned during the hoopla of Batman vs. Superman. As far as Harry's news, he is speculating that Ra's Al Ghul could be in the film as the description of the sets seem tailored to fit his persona. Could he be right?-A.J
September 4, 2003
Batman movie title confirmed
source: Aintitcool
This is a follow up to yesterday's news. Harry Knowles says that he has confirmed that Batman: Intimidation is indeed the title of the film and will be filmed in Shepperton studios in the UK. To add to that, WB has bought the domains www.batman-intimidation.com. and www.batmanintimidation.net
September 3, 2003
Potential list of Candidates to play Batman?
source: Entertainment Weekly,
Hollywood Reporter
Entertainment weekly and the Hollywood Reporter has drawn up a list of potential candidates for the next Batman film. They are Billy Crudup (ALMOST FAMOUS), Jake Gyllenhaal (THE GOOD GIRL), Christian Bale (AMERICAN PSYCHO), Hugh Dancy (BLACK HAWK DOWN), Joshua Jackson (THE SKULLS), Cillian Murphy (28 DAYS LATER) Henry Cavill ("I Capture the Castle") and Eion Bailey. These actors are expected to test for Batman soon and HR is saying that the film will start shooting in February.
Of the men on the list, Christian Bale's name has been mentioned several times and Dancy has turned on the rumourmill in the recent weeks. Looks like the wheels are beginning to turn, but in the case of WB wait and see....
Batman film has a title?
source: AintitCool
The following news should be considered rumour as well. Harry Knowles has some information which he received regarding the next Batman film. Harry is reporting that the film could be filmed in Shepperton studios in England and the staff have been referring to the film as Batman: Intimidation.
Online Batman comic in the works
source:
DC and AOL are teaming up to publish an online Batman comic featuring Sin Tzu; the villain in the upcoming Batman video game for all systems. Head down to This link for more details