Interview With Gary Di Raffaele and Steve Borst (Creators of Nickelodeon Show "Breadwinners)

We had a chat with the creators Gary Di Raffaele and Steve Borst of Nickelodeon's new hit show "Breadwinners." Breadwinners recently premiere it's second season on June 14th 2014. We chat with Gary and Steve on how the show came about, what is in store for season two and more. Listen to the interview below and don't forget to check out Breadwinners on Nickelodeon.

Steve Borst, Justin (Otakus and Geeks) & Gary Di Raffaele

Marvel Entertainment Unviel Cast Members For Marvel Universe Live

Check out the press release regarding the new Marvel LIVE show:

After scouring the country to find the best of the best in live action performers with an amazing array of disciplines and skills, Feld Entertainment, Inc., the worldwide leader in live touring family events, today reveals the final cast of more than 50 performers ready to bring its most ambitious live event experience to life inMarvel Universe LIVE!. Debuting this July in Tampa, FL, before having its world premiere at New York City’s Barclays Center on Wednesday, August 13,the show will be the most physically demanding in Feld Entertainment’s storied history and will stop in 85 cities nationwide.

Featuring the most Marvel characters ever in one production,Marvel Universe LIVE! will be headlined by a cast trained in everything from martial arts to motocross in order to bring the Marvel Universe to the live action arena. Supported by a unique blend of aerial stunts, pyrotechnics and state-of-the-art special effects, the performers will bring an epic live action experience right in front of audiences’ eyes every time.

After an intensive eight month cross-country casting process that took place in New York, Los Angeles, Las Vegas, Orlando and Ellenton, Florida, with hundreds of hopefuls representing the United States, Mexico, Hungary, France, United Kingdom, Russia, and Japan showing off their considerable skills, the finalensemble is set. When the spotlight finally shines, spectators will see some of the world’s most gifted athletes and performers including professional snow-skater and three-time X Games champ Phil Smage (Captain America), WMX Pro National champion and two-time X Games winner Ashley Fiolek (Hydra Agent), and 2012 X Games Silver Medalist Louise Forsley (Black Widow). To depict the superlative athleticism of some of Marvel’s most renowned heroes, Feld Entertainment also has signed martial arts expert and AAU Junior Olympics/National Champion Kirk Jenkins (Wolverine) and long-time American Ninja Warrior professional course tester Eric Foster (Hawkeye).

"From the beginning we knew that to pull off a show of this magnitude we had to have a cast that was the closest thing we could find to real life Super Heroes," said Shanda Sawyer, director of Marvel Universe LIVE! "These are intense roles that require performers who are experts in their fields with the ability to take those skills and apply them to a number of meticulously crafted sequences, all designed to push the limits of anything the audience has ever seen in an arena show of this caliber – and they need to do this day in and day out."

Marvel Universe LIVEwill captivate audiences with an authentic and original story that brings more than 25 Marvel characters together on one epic quest. The story is framed around the battle over the Cosmic Cube, the source of ultimate power and one of the most feared and coveted treasures in the Marvel Universe, that has been shattered into pieces by the mighty Thor in order to prevent it from falling into the wrong hands. With the pieces scattered across the globe, Thor’s villainous brother, Loki, devises a scheme to clone its powers, inciting a threat that could not only decimate Earth but also obliterate the Universe.

Rigor Mortis Review

Rigor Mortis is a new horror installment directed by Juno Mak. It stars Anthony Chan, Siu-Ho Chin, Kara Hui, Richard Ng, Hoi-Pang Lo, Hee Chang Paw. The film is about a washed-up actor, desperate and suicidal, moves into a haunted apartment building where supernatural creatures, ghost hunters, taoist exorcists, and the souls of the undead walk among his neighbors. Does this film pack the scars and thrills? Or this is a film clearly not renting?

Hatsune Miku Designer KEI Coming To J-Pop Summit 2014

If you have been following us on Twitter then you know I will be attending this year's J-Pop Summit. Today the festival announced that Hatsune Miku designer KEI will be a guest of honor. You can read the official details below. I will keep you posted on more developments on J-Pop Summit 2014.

Character designer KEI will appear in-person in the Kinokuniya booth beginning at 1:00pm on both Saturday, July 19th and Sunday, July 20th to have special autograph session for the fans who purchase his illustrated art books, Hatsune Miku Project DIVA F or Hatsune Miku Project DIVA F 2ndOn both days, the first 100 people to purchase either title also will have the opportunity to autograph by KEI. Fans will also receive a free Hatsune Miku poster as a special gift with purchase. 

Kill La Kill OST Review

There is a reason that "Kill La Kill" is one of the hottest anime's right now. Not only does the anime have great characters, an interesting story but along with all those ingredients Hiroyuki Sawano has composed one hell of a soundtrack. "Kill La Kill" OST is pack with different styles of music for fans. It has a mixture of rock, pop, classical and even some dance/house tracks. You would think with all these different sounds, that the soundtrack would sound all over the place. However this is not the case with "Kill La Kill." Hiroyuki Sawano has carefully integrated these sounds that not only set the tone for the anime, but also gives the soundtrack tons of replay value.

The album consist of eighteen songs, six songs are vocal tracks and the rest is orchestrated or instrumental tracks. The opening song "Before My Body Is Dry" by Miku Kobayashi is a great start off song. The song is a combination of rock and rap and it's one of my favorite tracks of the whole album. I personally would love a version without the rap in it. It's nothing against the artist I just feel like the rap felt out of place. Other than that little complaint the soundtrack is easy to listen from beginning to end. There wasn't a single track that I skip or felt that it didn't belong with the anime. Some of the stand out tracks are "Before My Body Is Dry", "I want to know", "KILL7la切ル" and "Light your heart up." Overall if your a fan of the anime I suggest you pick up the ost. It has amazing vocal tracks and amazing instrumental tracks as well. This album you can relax too, or even workout too. It's a killer soundtrack for a killer anime.

Final Rating - 4.5/5

Honest Game Trailers: Mortal Kombat

Check out the new Honest Game Trailers: Mortal Kombat. It's pretty funny. "From the developers who created one of the best fighting games of all time, comes a franchise that teaches children all they need to know about anatomy; but absolutely nothing about being mortal - Mortal Kombat."

Capcom Announces New Titles and Full E3 2014 Lineup

Capcom’s full roster of titles on display at its booth #2001 in the South Hall of the LA Convention Center includes:

Dead Rising 3 (PC):
The critically acclaimed Dead Rising 3, an exclusive launch title for Xbox One, the all-in-one games and entertainment system from Microsoft, will be available for PC digital download on Steam globally and a retail version for Windows PC in Europe in Summer 2014. PC gamers will be able to experience the hordes of horror at high PC resolutions with fully optimized visuals for the wide screen, upgraded textures on characters, backgrounds and in-game objects. Dead Rising 3 for PC will include Steam platform support with Steam Achievements, Steam Cloud, Steam Trading Cards, global leaderboards and full game controller support. Also compatible with the keyboard and mouse, players will be able to toggle back and forth between the two in real time.

Monster Hunter 4 Ultimate (Nintendo 3DS):
Launching on Nintendo 3DS in the west in early 2015, Monster Hunter 4 Ultimate will be the newest installment in the popular Monster Hunter™ series. Players will take on the role of a hunter on a grand adventure with a traveling caravan visiting several new locales with hundreds of quests to be cleared on the way. For the first time ever for the Monster Hunter series on a handheld system, players will be able to join up with friends over the internet via the Nintendo Network™, as well as the previously available local wireless option. The game will introduce an expanded action set including more vertical and lateral movement, fluid climbing motions, and ability to ride atop monsters. Monster Hunter 4 Ultimate also debuts two weapon classes, features new and returning monsters, and spans more locales for the most robust hunting experience than ever before.

Monster Hunter Freedom Unite (iPhone®, iPod touch®, iPad®, iPad mini™, and iPad Air™):
One of the most popular PSP® (PlayStation®Portable) system titles arrives on the App Store! Monster Hunter Freedom Unite™ was based on Japan’s Monster Hunter Portable™ 2^nd G and originally released in 2009 in the west. The PSP® (PlayStation®Portable) system title was a global success with sales of more than four million units worldwide, contributing to the series’ total of more than 28 million units to date. From devising the strategy to executing the attack, players will need to work together in order to hunt down ferocious beasts and progress through the wide range of quests on offer. Players will be rewarded for their use of deep fighting combat systems, encouraging them to seek out the more experienced hunters and team up in order to learn from their expertise. Several features have been added for the new version including: higher HD resolution graphics, touch screen optimized controls, target camera options, support for MFi controllers and seamless co-op multiplayer quests via Wi-Fi connection for up to four hunters.

Phoenix Wright: Ace Attorney Trilogy (Nintendo eShop on Nintendo 3DS):
Defend the innocent and save the day! Courtroom hero Phoenix Wright lays down the law this winter in the digital release of Phoenix Wright: Ace Attorney Trilogy. Experience the original trilogy like never before in clear, high-resolution re-drawn graphics and immersive 3D visuals optimized for the Nintendo 3DS system. Join rookie lawyer Phoenix Wright through the early years of his career in his quest to find the truth behind all of the classic cases! Prepare for intense courtroom showdowns by investigating crime scenes, collecting evidence, and questioning witnesses. Use evidence and the testimonies of witnesses to your advantage as you battle for the innocence of your client. Nothing less of a full acquittal will do in this court of law. Find the contradictions in witnesses' testimonies to expose the truth!

Ultra Street Fighter IV (PS3™, Xbox 360 and PC):
In Ultra Street Fighter IV, Poison, Hugo, Elena, Rolento and Decapre join the fight, complete with new animations and their own unique play styles, bringing the final roster count to a massive 44 characters. Six new battle environments (including Pitstop 109, Cosmic Elevator, Half Pipe and more) provide a thrilling and colorful backdrop to the action. Direct fan feedback was gathered on all of the original 39 characters from Super Street Fighter® IV: Arcade Edition and its core system mechanics in order to achieve the most balanced Street Fighter ever. In addition to the action-packed new content and the finely-tuned rebalanced gameplay, the new version features a host of new features and modes that are sure to test even the most well traveled world warrior.

Capcom Pro Tour
The Capcom Pro Tour (CPT) is the premier league destination for competitive fighting games. Featuring the latest flagship title of the legendary Street Fighter series, the CPT brings together players and spectators from all over the world to share their love of gaming. With over a dozen official events, and even more independently run tournaments involved, the CPT showcases the very best that competitive gaming has to offer. Players from across the globe will battle through a yearlong tournament circuit in order to claim one of the 16 qualification spots for the year end Capcom Cup. There are three main types of events: Premier Tournaments, Ranking Tournaments, and Online Tournaments. Premier events, where players can directly qualify, combined with a point ranking system to decide the other remaining spots, will ensure only the best of the best make it to the end.

Sharknado 2 Teaser Trailer

If you haven't watched the first Sharknado. I want you to grab a couple of your friends find the film and watch it. After you have seen one of the most epic worst films every made (The Room is still the greatest) I want you to ask yourself why are we getting a sequel. Anyway here is a teaser/TV spot of Sharknado 2. The movie has Tara Reid returning and surprisingly Vivica A. Fox. Not to mention KURT ANGLE!!!This has to be one of the most unique cast assembles ever. First L.A. now Sharknado invades the home of Otakus & Geeks New York city.

Synopsis - A freak weather system turns its deadly fury on New York City, unleashing a Sharknado on the population and its most cherished, iconic sites - and only Fin and April can save the Big Apple.

Theatrhythm Final Fantasy Curtain Call E3 Trailer

E3 is less than a week away, but that hasn't stop Square Enix from releasing the new E3 trailer for Theatrhythm Final Fantasy Curtain. Combining hallmark FINAL FANTASY music with role playing game (RPG) elements, the new THEATRHYTHM FINAL FANTASY CURTAIN CALL is bursting with new content, including the new Versus Mode where players can now compete head-to-head with local friends and other players via the Nintendo Network. The game features 221 songs and more than 60 playable characters from the FINAL FANTASY franchise – including FINAL FANTASY VII: ADVENT CHILDREN® and FINAL FANTASY TACTICS®, as well as recently released titles like LIGHTNING RETURNS™: FINAL FANTASY XIII and FINAL FANTASY XIV: A Realm Reborn®. Players can relive nostalgic moments as they tap their way through key FINAL FANTASY events, field themes and battle arrangements. Check out the trailer below.

Preview of ROCKET RACCOON #1!

Guardian of the Galaxy own Rocket Raccoon is getting his own comic in Rocket Raccoon #1. Check out the official synopsis and stills from the book. As defenders of the cosmos go, Rocket Raccoon has faced his fair share of battles. He’s been a hero to the weak, a champion of the good, and a protector the innocent. Not to mention a heartthrob to many intergalactic species across the galaxy. But is he ready to be…a fugitive?! Framed for a crime he didn’t commit, Rocket and his pal Groot’s high-flying life of adventure and heroism may be a thing of the past as he’ll soon find himself on the run and on the wrong side of the law. And the authorities aren’t the only one’s hot on his TAIL! (Too easy). An intergalactic boxing match, fierce alien creatures, and a deadly militia of Rocket’s ex-girlfriends known only as the Exterminators – and that’s just the FIRST ISSUE!

Must Read Comic Titles Coming In June/July

Hey Comic fans, with summer here, I wanted to talk about some must reads for the next two months. So here are my picks for titles coming in June/July.

Starting in June: Wolverine: 3 Months to Die, runs issues 8-12 of the main Wolverine series. It leads up to Charles Soule's mini-series The Death of Wolverine. Now for all Wolverine fans this is a must read as our favorite cigar smoking bad ass mutant hero comes to grip with his own mortality.
 Thanks to an alien virus, Logan no longer has his famous healing factor, meaning that the character formerly able to come back from just about anything was now suddenly very vulnerable.

 Now this is a May/ June release, but still a must read. The shocking truth about Deadpool’s family comes to light in DEADPOOL #29 – a tie-in to Original Sin! And the truth about the Merc With a Mouth upend the lives of those close to him in ways you never thought imaginable. All Deadpool Fans must pick this title up!!

Batman And Robin #33 Robin Rises. Now this story arc runs thru a few DC titles,GRAYSON#1 ,NEW SUICIDE SQUAD #1, TEEN TITANS #1.
'ROBIN RISES'! Picking up right where this month's ROBIN RISES #1 left off, it's Batman vs. the Justice League as the Dark Knight decides to follow the Chaos Shard back to its source: Apokolips! on sale July 23, 2014


These are just a few titles to look out for that comic fans should be reading. I will be posting about comics, movies, and industry news as SDCC approaches. 


cover art from Marvel and Dc Comics.




 By Sean Tucker

App Review

Story Synopsis - App follows PAUL, a shy and brilliant app developer, as he desperately tries to get venture capital for his sexy Siri invention from a sex-starved investor, MIKE. Without a new investment by the end of the night, Paul cannot pay for servers and his app is lost forever. To convince Mike to invest, Paul uses his app to seduce a feisty stranger, ZOEY. As the App whispers advice culled from Zoey’s social media, Paul becomes a hipster Don Juan and they grow closer through the night. To the app, Zoey is a recovering jock and Paul is a lovesick nerd, or in other words: COMPLETELY INCOMPATIBLE. Their genuine connection makes Paul’s calculations a little more complicated. Paul confronts Mike that the test is over, the app works, and he wants the investment. But Mike, rejected earlier in the night by Zoey, demands Paul goes all the way. He wants “due diligence” (a sextape) to prove the app investment grade. Torn between a one-night stand to save his app or the promise of uncertain romance, Paul’s choice seems logically obvious. However, when the pair arrives at Zoey’s apartment, an irrational guilt and love drive Paul to abandon his app. Like a jealous lover, the App has other ideas…

 I had the chance to view this short film at this year's Tribeca Film Festival. I must say that this short film was very entertaining. What I really like about this film, is it's realism on social network and how the character Paul uses it to his advantage. Paul is socially awkward and doesn't have much experience dating. However the fact that he creates this app that tells him all the information he needs to know about a girl is not only creepy and eye opening. I felt the film was showing us a direction that we may be heading into when it comes to social network. It shows how basically nothing is kept private anymore and nothing is off limits. The simple fact that Paul can access all the information he needs, on his objective target Zoey made me think on what I put on social networks. Paul is character you will cheer for being socially awkward and hope that he gains confidence, but at the same time you start questioning whether he is just capitalizing on information he didn't earn himself. Watching Paul I felt for his frustration about his love and career life. However at the same time I was rooting against him. I found this to be entertaining because when the decision comes of whether Paul will use the App or not made me ask myself would I do the same if I was Paul. The film brings a great dilemma of morality for Paul. If he uses the app and proves that it's successful he will have a career. If he doesn't then he won't reach his goals, all in the mix of this is Zoey who will determine if Paul succeeds based on his interactions with her.

Overall this is a really good short film that I recommend you watch if you get a chance. The acting has great chemistry, the story is fun and enjoyable and finally you will raise questions to yourself about how and what you put on social networks.

Final Grade

Anime Midwest Announces New Events At 2014 Convention

Anime Midwest had added new features this year to improve the overall con-experience.

Highlights of the new events added this year include:

· Dante's Fabulous Date Auction: Unrivaled by any other convention, Dante's Fabulous Date Auction is a chance to win a date to the formal ball. Join the Dantes as they auction off other cosplayers to the highest bidder. The money from the auction goes towards improving the convention and 10% of all winning bids are donated to charity.

· Boffer Weapon Tournaments: Anime Midwest is happy to feature Sleeping Samurai's boffer/foam weapons area. Attendees can use their regulation padded weapons to beat up friends in a nice, safe way and participate in a tournament to see who is the best swordsman.

· ConSweet: To help keep energy up at the convention, ConSweet will be providing attendees with unlimited rice, ramen and soda throughout the entire weekend.

· Maid Café: The maid cafe is a fun, interactive experience similar to maid cafes in Japan - but much more suited to Anime Midwest.

Batman: Arkham Knight – Batmobile Battle Mode Revealed

Today Warner Bros. Interactive Entertainment and DC Entertainment are unveiling the first footage of the highly anticipated Batmobile from Rocksteady Studios’ Batman™: Arkham Knight as it transitions into “Battle Mode.” The teaser highlights the Batmobile’s versatility as it morphs into a full combat ready machine. In other news Batman: Arkham Knight has been delayed to 2015 this is good news as it will assure the game goes out with a bang.

Otakon 2014 to Feature Stars of Classic Sailor Moon Dub

At Otakon 2014, members can meet the stars of the well-known North American dub that introduced the Sailor Moon franchise to millions of English-speaking fans. It's hard to believe, but it's been 20 years since English-speaking audiences were introduced to the series (and 21 years of the Otakon convention). Otakorp Inc. is pleased to welcome Canadian talents Lynda Ballantyne, Katie Griffin and John Stocker to their first Otakon.

Ballantyne is best known as the starring voice of Sailor Moon. She continues to work in animation with roles on such shows as; George of the Jungle, BeyWheelz, Mia and Me, The Cat in the Hat Knows a Lot About That!, Bakugan Battle Brawlers: Gundalian Invaders, Toot & Puddle, Yin! Yang! Yo!, Cyberchase, and Care Bears and is well known for providing the voice of Wasp (Janet Van Dyne) on The Avengers animated series, as well as voicing Percy in Thomas and the Magic Railroad. She has been the "voice" of the Comedy Network for13 years and is currently creating and writing an animated series, Simply Wicked. Check out her new radio show called I’m Just Sayin’ on SiriusXM Satellite’s newest channel Canada Talks (#167).

The voice of Sailor Mars, Griffin has worked with such acting powerhouses as Nicole Kidman, Glenn Close, Matt Dillon and Rob Lowe. She's also known for her portrayal of Alex on Totally Spies, Yoko on Team Galaxy, Zair on Redakai, as well as Julie and Sellon on Bakugan Battle Brawlers and Hikaru on Beyblade. In addition, she portrayed Nina Harper on the Emmy-Award-winning Braceface, Ruby on Max and Ruby and Laugh-a-lot Bear in Care Bears: Journey to Joke-a-lot. She has had numerous guest starring roles on shows such as 6-teen, Stoked and The Dating Guy.

Since voice directing Sailor Moon, Stocker has gone on to helm many productions, including Totally Spies, Beyblade, Caillou, Redakai, Medabots, Pandalian, Mike the Knight, and Ella the Elephant. He has worked on-screen with John Candy, William Shatner, Dan Aykroyd, Mark Wahlberg, Rick Moranis, Eugene Levy and Gilda Radner and has been the voice of thousands of TV and radio commercials. His animation voice career includes parts in Droids and Ewoks, and includes many iconic roles, such as Beastly in Care Bears, Toad in Super Mario Brothers, Basil in Babar, Longarm in C.O.P.S., Ultron in The Avengers, Creed in X-Men, The Stay-Puft Marshmallow Man in The Real Ghostbusters, Thompson in Tin Tin, Newton Gimmick in Teddy Ruxpin and Bugsy in Dog City. Some of his recent roles include Mayor Swifty in Sidekick, Mr. Owl in Franklin, Mission Control in Rob the Robot and both Naga and King Zenoheld in Bakugan.

LEGO Art & Brick Exhibit

As an added bonus to seeing Marvel's new Avenger's S.T.A.T.I.O.N Exhibit (/www.otakusandgeeks.com/akusandgeeks.com/2014/05/marvel-avengers-station-exhibit.html) I also had the pleasure of getting a chance to the the LEGO Art & Brick Exhibit. Check out the video below of my walkthrough and check out some pics. Thanks again to Discovery Times and Marvel for the lovely party. 

Marvel Avengers S.T.A.T.I.O.N Exhibit Walkthrough

On May 29th we got a special preview of Marvel's new exhibit. Otakus and Geeks gives you a walkthrough of the new Marvel Avengers S.T.A.T.I.O.N Exhibit at Discovery Times. Located in Times Square New York. Marvel’s Avengers S.T.A.T.I.O.N. (Scientific Training and Tactical Intelligence Operative Network) is a completely immersive, interactive exhibit experience that brings visitors into the world of The Avengers. Leading EdTech innovator Gamedesk created S.T.E.M. (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) based educational pathways for the exhibition, bringing to life the science behind Marvel Super Heroes and allows fans to participate in a simulated recruitment, as if they were being trained as agents of S.H.I.E.L.D.

Here are some pics from last night

2014 J-Pop Summit Festival Announces J-Pop & Rock Acts

The 2014 J-POP SUMMIT Festival, San Francisco’s annual celebration of Japanese pop culture, music, fashion and film, is proud to announce a potent line-up of artists and live bands set to perform during this year’s event. “POP Is Our Tradition” is the theme for 2014 and this year’s festivities will be highlighted by the appearance of a unique array of top Japanese pop, rock and Kawaii acts.
 
The 2014 J-POP SUMMIT Festival will be held in San Francisco’s historic Japantown district on Saturday and Sunday, July 19th and 20th. FREE live concert sets by some of Japan’s hottest pop and rock acts will take place throughout both days on the Pagoda Main Stage in Japantown’s Peace Plaza as well as at a special open-air live concert, “J-POP LIVE AT UNION SQUARE,” in city’s downtown Union Square on the evening of Saturday, July 19th.
 
Headliners scheduled to perform this year include pop/rock/anime singer May’n, the popular idol group Tokyo Girls’ Style, which makes its first-ever U.S. appearance at J-POP SUMMIT, the return of the amazing beat box vocal skills of DAICHI, a special musical performance by Harajuku fashion model/singer Una, the U.S. debut of the kimono cosplay duo YANAKIKU, and the hard rocking sounds of J-rock bands Pinky Doodle Poodle, and the all-girl punk rock trio, The Akabane Vulgars on Strong Bypass. Details and specific set times will be posted on the official 2014 J-POP SUMMIT Festival website at: www.J-POP.com.
 
The annual J-POP SUMMIT is FREE to attend (although certain activities will require a modest admission fee) and has become one of the largest events in the United States dedicated to showcasing the many sides of Japanese pop culture and fandom. Attendance in 2013 exceeded 80,000 people.
 

2014 J-POP SUMMIT Festival Music Artists:
 
May’n – Special Appearance AT UNION SQUARE ON Saturday, JULY 19th &
HeaDline Show at SLIM’S S.F. ON Sunday, JULY 20th
Japanese pop/rock/anime star May’n (pronounced “Main”) is known as the singing voice of Diva of the Galaxy Sheryl Nome from the blockbuster anime film, Macross Frontier, as well as many other popular anime series. Her powerful rock and pop vocal style has drawn critical acclaim and legions of fans. In addition to a very special appearance at J-POP LIVE AT UNION SQUARE, the 2014 J-POP SUMMIT Festival proudly presents a May’n Special Live Concert at the famous SF live venue, Slim’s (333 11th St., San Francisco, CA 94103) on Sunday, July 20th, at 8:00pm. Advance tickets are available along with special VIP show packages that include an exclusive artist meet-and-greet. (Quantities are limited) More details on the Slim’s show are available at: http://www.j-pop.com/2014/mayn-live-concert-at-slims.

Tokyo Girls’ Style – Two live shows On July 19th & July 20Th
Tokyo Girls’ Style is a massively popular Japanese teen idol vocal group and will make their U.S. debut at J-POP SUMMIT this year. The group will perform at J-POP LIVE AT UNION SQUARE on Saturday, July 19th, and also on the Pagoda Main Stage in Japantown on Sunday, July 20th. Tokyo Girls’ Style consists of 5 teenage girls whose funk and disco sounds infused with glossy urban appeal have garnered the group a massive following in Japan. Additional info is available at: http://www.j-pop.com/2014/tokyo-girls-style.
 
As part of the U.S. debut of Tokyo Girls’ Style, the J-POP SUMMIT Festival and the 2014 Japan Film Festival of San Francisco (JFFSF) will also present the U.S. theatrical premiere of Count Five to Dream of You, an inspiring feature film starring Tokyo Girls’ Style set in all-girls high school that captures the short-lived and unforgettable moments of adolescence. Also set to premiere is Kotodama – Spiritual Curse, a J-horror movie about a haunted school based on the bestselling book “Gakkou no Kwaidan,” in which members of Tokyo Girls’ Style play the leading roles. Both films will screen at the NEW PEOPLE Cinema following the group’s special appearance. Advance ticket sales start on June 3rd at the JFFSF website at: www.JFFSF.org.
 
Daichi – Two live shows On Saturday & Sunday July 19th & July 20Th
The 23-year-old Japanese human beat-box, DAICHI, taught himself his amazing vocal skill beginning at the young age of 10. Without using any instruments or machines, DAICHI can create more than 50 different sounds using only his voice, and moreover, can play rhythm beat and sing melody simultaneously. DAICHI is known internationally for his talents and he has opened for the likes of Boys II Men and collaborated with numerous singers, dancers, DJs and performers. DAICHI will perform at J-POP LIVE AT UNION SQUARE on Saturday, July 19th, and also on the Pagoda Main Stage in Japantown on Sunday, July 20th. Additional info is available at: http://www.j-pop.com/2014/daichi.
 
UNA – Two live shows On Satruday & Sunday, July 19th & July 20Th
Una was formally a charismatic shop assistant in Harajuku and began her modeling career in 2010. It didn't take her long to begin appearing regularly in numerous fashion magazines. With her beautiful looks and edgy fashion style Una represents a new type of model capable of expressing not only Kawaii style but also showcasing other cool aspects of Harajuku culture. Una also has a budding singing career and has performed with top artists including Katy Perry and Kyary Pamyu Pamyu. She will appear at J-POP SUMMIT in support of her newest single, “BOOM BOOM BOOM,” and will participate in this year’s HARAJUKU KAWAii!! fashion events as well as perform at J-POP LIVE AT UNION SQUARE on Saturday, July 19th, and also on the Pagoda Main Stage in Japantown on Sunday, July 20th. Additional info available is at: http://www.j-pop.com/2014/una.
 
Yanakiku – Live Performance on Saturday, july 19th
YANAKIKU is a unique Japanese kimono cosplay duo consisting of members Yana and Kiku. In 2013, they performed for international audiences at Hyper Japan (London) and TIFFCOM (Japan) and have garnered a massive following for their costume and dance performances. YANAKIKU makes their U.S. debut at the 2014 J-POP SUMMIT Festival and will perform on the Pagoda Main Stage in Japantown on Saturday, July 19th and participate in the Festival’s cosplay contest and events. The duo will also host a meet and greet session and have a selection of merchandise available for sale to attendees. Additional info is available at: http://www.j-pop.com/2014/yanakiku.
 
Pinky Doodle Poodle – Live performance on Sunday, July 20th
Pinky Doodle Poodle is a high energy, female fronted rock band from Tokyo that formed in 2008. The group features lead vocalist/bassist/guitarist Yuria, a successful Japanese anime singer often heard in popular video games in Japan as well as on solo records and with her band Honey Bee. Pinky Doodle Poodle just completed their first full-length record which was produced by Goo Goo Dolls member Robby Takac. The 10-song self-titled album, Pinky Doodle Poodle, was released worldwide in the spring of 2014 on Takac’s Good Charamel Records. Pinky Doodle Poodle will perform on Sunday, July 20th on the Pagoda Main Stage in Japantown. Additional info at: http://www.j-pop.com/2014/pinky-doodle-poodle.

The Akabane Vulgars on Strong Bypass – Live Set On SaturdaY, July 19th
The Akabane Vulgars On Strong Bypass is an all-girl punk rock trio from Tokyo and returns for their third consecutive concert appearance at J-POP SUMMIT. A favorite with Festival-goers, the band plays in support of their two newest releases “Proclamation” and “Live in Brooklyn.” Catch the Akabane Vulars on Strong Bypass on Saturday July 19th for a powerful live set on the Pagoda Main Stage. Additional info at: http://www.j-pop.com/2014/akabane.

 

Eternal Con (The Long Island Comic Con) Announces Guests

Here is a con I didn't even know about till today. Eternal Con is a con located in Long Island NY. Here is the offical press release and details on the upcoming con which will take place on June 14th to June 15th.

This year’s guests include Rebecca Mader (star of the hit ABC tv series “Once Upon a Time” and LOST), Daniel Cudmore (Star of X-Men: Days of Future Past and the Twilight series), Ray Park (Star of G.I Joe and Star Wars), Lee Arenberg (Star of “Once Upon A Time, Pirates of the Caribbean, Star Trek), the original Red Power Ranger Steve Cardenas, Zach Galligan (star of Gremlins), Catherine Mary Stewart (Star of The Last Starfighter and Weekend at Bernie’s), WWE wrestler Mick Foley, Tiamak (star of the Last Dragon), Paris Themmen (star of Willie Wonka and the Chocolate factory), with more guests to announced in the coming weeks.

Among the top names in the comic book industry attending are Amanda Conner (Supergirl, Harley Quinn), Jimmy Palmiotti (Jonah Hex, Painkiller Jane), Adam Kubert (Avengers, X-Men), Larry Hama (G.I. Joe), Bob Larkin (Famous Cover Artist), Sean Chen (X-Men, Iron Man), Billy Tucci (Shi, Wonder Woman), and over 70 comic book professionals expected to be in attendance!

On Sunday Jun 15th, in honor of Father’s Day, ETERNAL CON presents Kids day! The entire day will feature special events for children including “Youngling Training” where children are invited to join the NY-
Jedi instructors in a supervised training session to learn basic Light Saber choreography & technique. Every child who participates will receive a free lightsaber!
New for 2014 is the COSPLAY PARADE. This FREE event is open to the public. The parade will begin at 9:00 am on Saturday June 14th of Aviation museums parking lot and proceed along Charles Lindberg Blvd and lead into the Cradle. More information on the parade is available on the ETERNAL CON website.

One of the biggest events in 2013 was the Costume Contest in the 300-seat IMax theatre. This year’s event will be pre-judged by Sue Lee (Star of the popular SYFY series Face-Off) and comic book superstar artist Amanda Conner. This live event will be simulcast on the IMax screen so everyone in the theatre gets a good look at all the costumes. The contest is open to all cosplayers and fans.

Again this year ETERNAL CON will help raise money for several worthy charities working in the local community including The Ronald McDonald House of Long Island, Hurricane Sandy Relief, and The Special Olympics (to be confirmed). In addition, Long Island Blood Services will be in attendance and will be conducting a special blood drive. ETERNAL CON will also be supporting the fundraising efforts with a series of charity auctions and a portion of the ticket sales from “Cosplay Night” at CitiField on June 12th presented by Eternal Con.

Throughout the weekend attendees will have the opportunity for Portfolio Reviews, Gaming tournaments, informative panels (such as the Women in Comics panel), the return of the Planet of the Apes movie prop gallery, a Car Show (with the 1966 Batmobile and many other cars from movies and television), a expanded Art Show, Cosplay groups, special performances, and a vendor room with over 150 tables of toys, jewelry, clothing, and collectibles.
For convention updates and announcements:
Official Website: www.eternalcon.com
Facebook: www.facebook.com/eternalcon
Twitter: www.twitter.com/eternalconexpo

Aniplex of America Announces Sword Art Online II Simulcast Details

Aniplex of America has confirmed that Sword Art Online II will begin its simulcast schedule on July 5th for multiple territories across the world through Hulu, Crunchyroll, and DAISUKI. See below for streaming details.

Platform	URL	Streaming Starts	Available Territories
Hulu Hulu Plus	http://www.hulu.com/sword-art-online-2	July 5th	U.S. only
Crunchyroll	www.crunchyroll.com/sao	July 5th	U.S., Canada, Australia, New Zealand, U.K., Ireland, Latin American Countries, Europe (excluding German & French speaking countries), Asia (excluding China, Korea, Taiwan)

1 year after the SAO incident, Kirito is approached by Seijiro Kikuoka from Japan’s Ministry of Internal Affairs and Communications Department "VR Division" with a rather peculiar request.

That was an investigation on the "Death Gun" incident that occurred in the gun and steel filled VRMMO called GunGale Online (GGO). "Players who are shot by a mysterious avatar with a jet black gun lose their lives even in the real world…" Failing to turn down Kikuoka’s bizarre request, Kirito logs in to GGO even though he is not completely convinced that the virtual world could physically affect the real world.

Kirito wanders in an unfamiliar world in order to gain any clues about the "Death Gun." Then, a female sniper named Sinon who owns a gigantic "Hecate II" rifle extends Kirito a helping hand. With Sinon’s help, Kirito decides to enter the "Bullet of Bullets," a large tournament to choose the most powerful gunner within the realm of GGO, in hopes to become the target of the "Death Gun" and make direct contact with the mysterious avatar.