More minions are coming. The Conjuring 4 sets a release date. Time Bandits shares its first trailer. Severance season two offers us a teaser and a look at Gwendoline Christie’s new character. Godzilla x Kong hits streaming. A Furiosa transformation. Eric Kripke talks about The Boys‘ comic twist the series will skip. Here are all these news odds & ends, and more.

Alien: Romulus

Cinemark Theaters wants you to enjoy Alien: Romulus and really dig your teeth into the film. The theater chain revealed its Xenomorph Alien: Romulus popcorn bucket and it is delightfully creepy.

Celebrate Summer with these French Fry Ice Cream Pops

What could be better than dipping french fries in ice cream? An ice cream pop that does it for you already. GoodPop and Ore-Ida have teamed up to create the ultimate frozen treat, “an all-in-one pop featuring a creamy dairy free oatmilk interior coated in frozen chocolate fudge and sprinkled with real crispy potatoes for a cleaned up classic treat that’s cold, creamy and completely crave worthy.”

You can try to snag a four-pack for $9.99, here, but don’t delay. These tasty treats are selling out quickly.

Minons & Despicable Me

As Despicable Me 4 reaches $255 million at the global box office, another franchise movie has been given a release date. Minions 3 will release on June 30, 2027.

The Conjuring

The Conjuring 4, which is now being referred to as the finale of the cinematic franchise, has set its release date. The next The Conjuring movie will release on September 5, 2025. The movie does not yet have a title.

Time Bandits

Everything old is new again and the latest reboot to hit our screens is Time Bandits. A reimagination of the 1981 film in series form, this Apple TV+ adventure is created by Jemaine Clement, Iain Morris and Taika Waititi. The series stars Lisa Kudrow alongside rising star Kal-El Tuck. It “will take viewers on a riveting journey through time and space with a ragtag group of thieves.”

The Time Bandits synopsis shares:

Guided by Lisa Kudrow, the eccentric crew of bandits embark on epic adventures while evil forces threaten their conquests, and life as they know it. As the group transports through time and space, the gang stumbles upon fascinating worlds of the distant past while seeking out treasure, depending on Kevin to shed light on each situation. The “Time Bandits” witness the creation of Stonehenge, see the Trojan Horse in action, escape dinosaurs in the prehistoric ages, wreak havoc during medieval times, experience the Ice Age, ancient civilizations and the Harlem Renaissance, and much more along the way. 

The 10-episode series will premiere globally, with the first two episodes on Wednesday, July 24, followed by two new episodes every Wednesday through August 21, 2024.

Severance

Severance season two has revealed its release date. The second chapter of the series will arrive on January 17, 2025. Additionally, the release date announcement teaser trailer gives us a look at Gwendoline Christie’s mysterious new character.

SpongeBob SquarePants

The trailer for Saving Bikini Bottom: The Sandy Cheeks Movie is here. This trailer brings us a whole new kind of SpongeBob SquarePants adventure. A little bit of live-action, a little bit of surface mayhem—what could possibly get better than this?

A release shares, “When Bikini Bottom and all its denizens are suddenly scooped out of the ocean, Sandy Cheeks and SpongeBob SquarePants journey to Texas to save the town from a villainous plot.” Sandy Cheeks is one (flying) squirrel not to be messed with. Honestly, we’re all the way in for this Sandy Cheeks star vehicle.

Saving Bikini Bottom: The Sandy Cheeks Movie releases on August 2.

Godzilla x Kong

Warner Bros. Pictures and Legendary Pictures’ Godzilla x Kong: The New Empire will release on July 4. The monster movie will stream on Max.

We’re also very excited to share that a version of the movie with American Sign Language (ASL) will also stream exclusively on Max the same day. Max shares, “This ASL version of the film was produced exclusively for Max, with ASL performer Otis Jones (Deaf West Theatre) providing interpretation. Jones was coached by Leila Hanaumi, who delivered a highly praised performance in Barbie with ASL last December, Max’s first ASL film interpretation. GODZILLA X KONG: THE NEW EMPIRE in ASL will be displayed as a unique title on the Max app, identifiable by its key art featuring the sign language symbol.” We absolutely applaud Max for these efforts to be as inclusive as possible with their programming!

Furiosa: A Mad Max Saga

If you’re a fan of Furiosa: A Mad Max Saga, you can check out Anya Taylor-Joy’s epic transformation into Furiosa below.

The Boys

The Boys showrunner Eric Kripke promises that unlike in the comics, Black Noir will not end up being a Homelander clone.

He tells Variety:

No, and I don’t mind saying it. In the comics he’s a clone of Homelander this entire time and is actually the one doing all these horrific things. And again, it’s a hell of a twist. But it’s like, well wait, the villain I’ve been following isn’t really the villain. And mileage varies, and I’m sure fans are mad I’m not going that way, but that felt not as satisfying to me. I’m like, if I’m going to follow this villain, I want this guy to be the villain. So I was never really into the clone idea.

Plus, cloning feels like too — I’m going to sound silly — but cloning feels too magical for the show. We try to say that superheroes are the only slippery banana, and that everything else we try to make as grounded as possible.

Netflix

Netflix is creating its own line of popcorn… and its own malls.

Netflix shares:

Today, we’re excited to announce that Netflix and Popcorn Indiana are teaming up to bring Now Popping, an all-new ready-to-eat popcorn line! With flavors like Cult Classic Cheddar Kettle Corn and Swoonworthy Cinnamon Kettle Corn, this partnership promises a snack experience tailored to every viewer’s taste. Discover your favorite flavor, nationwide at Walmart, today. 

The popcorn retails for $4.49, but no word on how much it is if you want to share a pack.

Additionally, the streamer has revealed it will be opening two entertainment, dining, and shopping complexes, a.k.a. malls. Per Variety, “They’re not exactly theme parks, but the new Netflix Houses — to open next year in King of Prussia, Pa., and Dallas — will feature a wide array of shopping outlets, eateries and experiential activities tied to the streamer’s major franchises like Bridgerton, Stranger Things and Squid Game.“

Marian Lee, Netflix’s chief marketing officer, shares “At Netflix House, you can enjoy regularly updated immersive experiences, indulge in retail therapy, and get a taste — literally — of your favorite Netflix series and films through unique food and drink offerings. We’ve launched more than 50 experiences in 25 cities, and Netflix House represents the next generation of our distinctive offerings. The venues will bring our beloved stories to life in new, ever-changing and unexpected ways.”

Netflix invites you to imagine, “waltzing with your partner to an orchestral cover of a Taylor Swift song on a replica of the ‘Bridgerton’ set –– and then walking around the corner to compete in the Glass Bridge challenge from ‘Squid Game.’” After that, you can enjoy “food inspired by Netflix shows from around the world” or buy “that Hellfire Club T-shirt you’ve always wanted from Stranger Things.”

Deadpool

Marvel is all set to kill Deadpool in Deadpool #6 by Cody Ziglar and Rogê Antônio. Marvel shared of the issue:

Wade Wilson triumphed against Death Grip! This is the first issue of a new arc and killing Deadpool NOW would be an INSANE thing to do. Which is exactly why we’re doing it.

Editor’s Note: Nerdist is a subsidiary of Legendary Digital Networks.

Originally published on June 20, 2024.

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Freaky Friday 2 is officially happening, with Jamie Lee Curtis and Lindsay Lohan back for more body-swapping fun. The highly anticipated sequel movie certainly seemed like it was gaining traction, but there’s nothing we love more than an official announcement. In addition to Curtis and Lohan, Freaky Friday 2 has gained some excellent new cast members, and it has a slated release window of 2025. That’s some freakishly exciting stuff.

Freaky Friday 2‘s Plot

In a release, Disney describes the plot of Freaky Friday 2 as follows:

A sequel to the beloved 2003 film with a multigenerational twist, the film picks up years after Tess (Curtis) and Anna (Lohan) endured an identity crisis. Anna now has a daughter of her own and a soon-to-be stepdaughter. As they navigate the myriad challenges that come when two families merge, Tess and Anna discover that lightning might indeed strike twice.

More body swapping, ahoy!

Freaky Friday 2‘s Cast and Creators

Of course, Curtis and Lohan reprise their roles as Tess and Anna Coleman. But other Freaky Friday actors will be back for more fun. These returning original cast members include Mark Harmon, Chad Michael Murray, Christina Vidal Mitchell, Haley Hudson, Lucille Soong, Stephen Tobolowsky, and Rosalind Chao. But Freaky Friday 2 will also see some new faces, including Julia Butters, Sophia Hammons, Manny Jacinto, and Maitreyi Ramakrishnan. We are very excited to hear Manny Jacinto is Freaky Friday 2 official, especially after his excellent recent turn on The Acolyte.

In addition to the above looks, we also have a glimpse at Chad Michael Murray’s return as Jake.

Finally, Freaky Friday 2 will be directed by Nisha Ganatra.

Freaky Friday 2‘s Release Date

Production on the Freaky Friday sequel began in June 2024. We should expect Freaky Friday 2 to release in theaters nationwide in 2025.

While we wait for Freaky Friday 2 to release, you can catch the original movie streaming on Disney+.

The post FREAKY FRIDAY 2 Begins Filming, Jamie Lee Curtis and Lindsay Lohan Are Back appeared first on Nerdist.

Every week, we eagerly anticipate a new episode of House of the Dragon. But to make that wait a little easier, Max is releasing teaser images from new episodes of the Game of Thrones series a little early. These images don’t tell us too much about what’s in store in the new chapters of House of the Dragon season two, but they are fun to speculate over. Let’s take a look at the sneak peeks the streamer has released for House of the Dragon season two, episode six. Of course, these are technically spoilers, so look away if you don’t want to know anything more.

New Images From House of the Dragon Season 2, Episode 6

Aemond looks like he’s adjusting to life in charge in these new images from House of the Dragon season two, episode six. But we bet the current King Aegon, grievously injured after a blast from Aemond’s dragon, might have something to say about that. The trailer for House of the Dragons season two, episode six, certainly hinted at a coming clash.

Click To View Gallery

Meanwhile, Alys Rivers is lurking around with an owl. Does that mean she really is one? We’ll have to wait for the episode to know for sure. Larys, Alicent, and Rhaneyra also feature in these new House of the Dragon images. We can’t wait to see how these sneak peeks come together as House of the Dragon season two releases its sixth episode this Sunday, July 28, at 9 pm on HBO and Max.

Originally published on June 21, 2024.

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According to Kevin Feige, Deadpool & Wolverine will be the most wholesome R-rated movie ever. And its final trailer certainly makes us feel that way. In addition to pulling on our heartstrings more generally, the trailer also reveals a very special Logan cameo will come to us in Deadpool & Wolverine. Yes, that’s right, Dafne Keen will return to our screens as X-23, Wolverine’s feral surrogate daughter, in the upcoming Marvel Studios movie. You can take a look at Keen’s return to our screens as X-23, also known as Laura, in the Deadpool & Wolverine trailer below.

There’s been a lot of buzz about whether Dafne Keen would or would not return to cameo as Logan‘s X-23/Laura in Deadpool & Wolverine. But it seems like Marvel doesn’t want to leave us wondering for very long. X-23 tells Hugh Jackman’s Wolverine in the Deadpool & Wolverine trailer, “You were always the wrong guy, till you weren’t.” And we get the feeling her appearance will be just the thing that downtrodden Logan needs to go into full heroic (but still grumpy) mode.

In Logan, Wolverine becomes X-23’s surrogate father. X-23 is a Wolverine clone, after all. He devotes himself to protecting her and other mutant children and gives his life in the process. Logan was meant to be Hugh Jackman’s final turn in Wolverine. But, obviously, that didn’t take. The somber movie is, however, lauded as one of the finest superhero movies ever. Deadpool & Wolverine will have a very different tone to Logan, and so we’re curious to see in what form Keen’s X-23 will return.

Keen shares of returning to X-23 in Deadpool & Wolverine, “It was wonderful to get to come back to that and explore that as a grownup… now understanding more parental rage so much more and bringing that to the table for her. I found that Laura in Logan stumbled into having a dad and then having lost her dad. We find her again really knowing how to appreciate — and with this kind of wiseness to her — how much her father means to her.” But not to worry, she’s still physical and feral.

Deadpool & Wolverine releases in theaters July 26.

The post  Dafne Keen’s X-23 Returns to Cameo in DEADPOOL & WOLVERINE’s Final Trailer appeared first on Nerdist.

Alas, although it’s been a heyday for gaming series adaptations, with shows like Fallout and The Last of Us making a huge impression on audiences, one gaming adaptation won’t be moving forward. Paramount+’s Halo series has been canceled after two seasons.

Paramount+ shared of Halo‘s cancellation: “We are extremely proud of this ambitious series and would like to thank our partners at Xbox, 343 Industries and Amblin Television, along with showrunner and executive producer David Wiener, his fellow executive producers, the entire cast led by Pablo Schreiber as Master Chief and the amazing crew for all their outstanding work… We wish everyone the best going forward.”

The path to the now-canceled Halo adaptation series was not an easy one. The show went through many iterations and changes in direction before finally premiering on Paramount+ in 2021. Ultimately, the reception of the show was not very positive. According to The Hollywood Reporter, the show’s producers will attempt to pursue a third season of Halo on a different platform. We wish fans of the Halo series luck in un-canceling it and finding it a new home!

The post HALO Series Is Canceled at Paramount+  appeared first on Nerdist.

We all have to know our worth. And Netflix certainly knows theirs. They’re not closed to joining certain kind of bundles, but they won’t be entering into a streaming bundle with fellow streamers Disney+ or Max. And that’s because Netflix simply doesn’t need to join a group of its peers. According to the platform, Netflix won’t be bundling with other streamers because “Netflix already operates as a go-to destination for entertainment.” Alright Netflix, tell us how you really feel!

Recently, we’ve seen streaming bundles become more mainstream. On the one hand, we saw a Disney+, Hulu, and Max streaming bundle come into being. And on the other, we saw Peacock, Netflix, Apple TV+ join forces to create a streaming bundle of their own. But don’t expect Netflix to appear in any of these.

Netflix shares in a letter to shareholders that it will join a bundle with device and operator partners, which “mak[e] it simple for people to discover, sign-up, use and pay for Netflix.” And “In turn, our device and operator partners benefit through increased device sales from consumers seeking devices integrated with Netflix and greater customer acquisition and higher retention as well as the opportunity to upsell higher value data or content packages.” However, Netflix will not soon enter into a streaming bundle agreement with its peers.

The streamer shares, “We haven’t bundled Netflix solely with other streamers like Disney+ or Max because Netflix already operates as a go-to destination for entertainment thanks to the breadth and variety of our slate and superior product experience. This has driven industry-leading penetration, engagement and retention for us, which limits the benefit to Netflix of bundling directly with other streamers.”

Shots fired! Apparently, Netflix specifically called out the Disney+, Hulu, and Max bundle in its statement. It’s definitely a bold statement to make. We’ll see if Netflix maintains this position as the streaming industry continues to oscillate.

The post Netflix Won’t Bundle with Other Streamers Since ‘It Is Already a Go-To Destination’ appeared first on Nerdist.

The full details of what fans can expect from their favorite nerdy brands at this year’s San Diego Comic-Con are still trickling out. But if you’re on the edge of your seat waiting to see what surprises LEGO has in store, as we are at Nerdist, some tantalizing hints are already available to start building your excitement. From two exciting panels to a LEGO Marvel experience, here are the first tastes of LEGO’s presence at SDCC. Make sure to snap them into your schedule if you’re heading to the con or prepare to tune in on social media at home!

LEGO NINJAGO: Dragons Rising Continues Panel on Thursday at SDCC

LEGO plus dragons plus ninjas is a surefire recipe for success, in our opinion. Who could resist loving this LEGO animated series, which breathes new life (and fire) into a long-running franchise? The LEGO Ninjago: Dragons Rising Continues SDCC panel will take place on Thursday, July 25, from 1:00 p.m. to 2:00 p.m. PDT in room 6BCF.

The official panel description reads:

The Ninjago: Dragons Rising team will discuss the current run of Dragon’s Rising, the upcoming 15th anniversary of Ninjago, and the future of Ninjago. They’ll take a deep dive into the evolution of the show from a writing and production perspective as well as offer insights about the characters from the voice actors themselves. Featuring Pamela Keller (LEGO/exec producer), Chris “Doc” Wyatt and Kevin Burke (head writers), Ryan Burns (LEGO/exec producer), Deven Mack (voice of Arin), and Sabrina Pitre (voice of Sora).

Don’t miss out on all the LEGO fun!

LEGO Masters: Back Behind the Brick Panel on Friday at SDCC

Admit it, you’re obsessed with watching master builders transform LEGOs into works of art on LEGO Masters! Cooking shows are good, but there’s nothing quite as riveting and delightfully inspiring as watching majorly talented people turn LEGOs into awe-inspiring creations. It makes us want to break out our own LEGOs and see what we might be able to manifest. To help us along on our LEGO journeys, LEGO is having a LEGO Masters panel at SDCC. This panel will take place on Friday, July 26, from 4:30 pm – 5:30 pm PDT in room 6BCF. And yes, it will share tips, tricks, and secrets to becoming a LEGO genius.

You can check out the official description below.

Go behind the scenes and get a sneak peek at the exciting developments from around the world in TV’s greatest building competition, LEGO Masters! Brickmaster Jamie and former LEGO Masters winners are here to share all the tips, tricks, and secrets to becoming a LEGO master. You’ll get an update on LEGO Masters season 5, the upcoming LEGO Masters Celebrity Holiday Bricktacular! Featuring Jamie Berard (LEGO design lead/brickmaster), Brent Benedetti (LEGO/exec producer), Robert May (LEGO/exec producer), Michael Heyerman (SVP Unscripted Endemol Shine), and others. Get ready to get your brick on!

LEGO’s SDCC Booth Is #2829 

LEGO hasn’t officially revealed information about its booth yet, but we know it will be worth checking out. Mark booth #2829 on your con maps and stop by for a visit when the convention is in full swing.

LEGO Marvel SDCC Experience at Booth #2519

Because it is just that awesome, you can also find LEGO in other places at SDCC. One exciting LEGO experience will occur at Booth #2519 as LEGO teams up with Marvel for the LEGO Marvel experience. A release from Marvel notes that fans can enjoy “special X-Men ’97 and Spider-Man photo ops” as “Marvel and LEGO team up to bring scenes straight out of the Marvel Universe built by LEGO artists along with a look at Marvel x LEGO kits.”

Consider us already in line for this LEGO SDCC adventure!

The post LEGO Heads to SDCC with Two Panels and a Marvel Experience appeared first on Nerdist.

Strap in! There’s a lot of information coming your way if you’re a Cobra Kai fan. Of course, fans will already know that season six of Cobra Kai will be its final outing. But now, Netflix has shared more details about the release of the season and it’s turning into a major event. Cobra Kai season six will release its final episodes in what Netflix is calling “a three-part event.” The final season of Cobra Kai is actually super-sized, and its release will take place in two different years. Netflix has also revealed the first for Cobra Kai season six, part one. Let’s take a look at everything that’s been shared.

Cobra Kai‘s Final Season Shares a Season 6, Part 1 Trailer

Cobra Kai season six, part one will arrive on July 18. You can learn more about the series’ release date schedule below. But first, check out Netflix’s trailer for season six, part one.

A synopsis from Netflix notes about the first part of season six, “Picking up with Cobra Kai eliminated from the Valley, our senseis and students must decide if and how they will compete in the Sekai Taikai — the world championships of karate.” It’s one thing to be the best in town, it’s a whole other thing to be the best in the world.

World championships, here we come… But not before a lot of drama, bickering, and could it be, one last lesson from Mr. Miyagi? We guess we’ll have to tune in to find out.

What Are the Release Dates for Cobra Kai‘s Three-Part Final Season?

We’re going back to the dojo… and we’ll be going more than once. Netflix has revealed the following release dates for Cobra Kai‘s final season:

• Part 1 premieres July 18, 2024.
• Part 2 was slated to premiere on November 28, 2024, but will now release on November 15, 2024.
• The Finale Event comes in 2025.

Netflix notes that “All three batches will consist of five episodes each.” Happily, part one will arrive this summer, so that’s not too long to wait for more of the

How Many Episodes Will Cobra Kai Season 6 Have?

Cobra Kai‘s season six will have 15 episodes. To date, every other Cobra Kai season has had only 10. So the final season of Cobra Kai will contain another extra half of a season. That’s a pretty good deal for fans.

Cobra Kai Season 6 First-Look Images

You can check out a few more first-look images from the final season of Cobra Kai below.

Click To View Gallery

“Cobra Kai is back,” and how!

Originally published on May 2, 2024.

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The Acolyte has been dealing in death since its very first episode. So we weren’t that surprised to see that its ending had one more major death in store for fans. And even though many may have guessed The Acolyte‘s finale death was coming, the brutal manner in which it was delivered was still fairly shocking. At the end of the day, The Acolyte‘s other deaths were more shock than substance, but this last death served the story in a major way.

The Acolyte‘s Finale Brought Us Master Sol’s Death

And then there were none. The Acolyte systematically brought about the deaths of the four Jedi that were present on Brendok during the destruction of the Force witch’s coven. Mae killed the first three as she tried to prove herself to her mysterious Sith Lord Master, “The Stranger,” who we learned was Qimir in disguise. Qimir encouraged Mae to channel her anger over the terrible events of her childhood and wanted her to bring about the deaths of the Jedi responsible. Qimir, we have learned, has his own reasons to rage at the Jedi.

By The Acolyte‘s final episode, the only Jedi standing who had been a part of the Brendok mission gone wrong was Master Sol. But the writing was on the wall. The Acolyte‘s ending brought Master Sol’s death. But this time, it wasn’t Mae that killed him.

Osha Kills Sol Without a Weapon

All along, Qimir has been trying to get Mae to kill a Jedi without a weapon. In the very first episode of the series, he notes, “The Jedi live in a dream, a dream they believe everyone shares; if you attack a Jedi with a weapon, you will fail; steel or laser are no threat to them, but an Acolyte, an Acolyte kills without a weapon. An Acolyte kills the dream.”

But it wasn’t Mae who was supposed to be his true Acolyte, but Osha. Although Osha stepped away from her Jedi training because she couldn’t stop her hurt and rage from bubbling to the surface, it still exists inside of her. And she is incredibly strong in the Force. When she found out the truth about Master Sol, that he was the one responsible for the death of her mother and her hate for her sister, those two truths collided.

Osha killed Master Sol without a weapon. Sol’s death came solely from Osha’s use of the Force as she force choked the life out of him on The Acolyte‘s final episode. (Arguably the Force is a weapon, but Qimir is probably willing to let that one slide.)

Causing Sol’s Death Turns Osha to the Dark Side

Of course, to every action there is a reaction. Whether we choose to view Osha killing Sol as justice served or a terrible soul-severing act, the fact is that with Sol’s death comes a change in Osha that cannot be easily undone. In that moment, Osha gives herself over to the dark side and the lightsaber she clutches bleeds from blue to red. Of course, Qimir’s vision of the dark side is all about freedom, about the beauty of embracing one’s potential without restriction. It’s a sharp contrast to the Jedi’s emotionless grip on control, and a tempting one. But in the end, we’d have to say neither way is fully right. And that feels like what The Acolyte‘s message is also about.

Still, now that Sol’s death has come to pass, with Osha the responsible party, Osha’s ties from the Jedi and the light have well and truly severed. Osha wants to proceed as Qimir’s pupil now. And we just don’t yet know enough to know where that road will lead her.

The Acolyte Really Racked Up an Unexpected Death Count From Its Beginning to Its Ending

One thing we do know is that from Master Indara to Master Sol and everyone in between, The Acolyte racked up an impressive death count. We can’t say we expected it from the series.

And we hope that should The Acolyte get a season two, some of its characters get to stick around just a little longer. Incredibly, many of The Acolyte‘s short-lived figures garnered a huge fan base in a very brief time. Maybe we’ll see some of the slain again in some other incarnation across Star Wars‘ properties.

But whether or not we do, we salute all the fans of Jecki, Yord, Sol, and the rest who had to watch their favorites meet their deaths.

The post THE ACOLYTE’s Ending Brings One More Brutal Finale Death appeared first on Nerdist.

In episode five of The Acolyte, we learn that its evil Sith-esque villain, Qimir, once trained to be a Jedi “a really long time ago.” But as Qimir tells Osha, his Jedi Master “threw him away,” abandoning him, failing him, and leaving him with a scar. (At least the way he tells it.) Of course, The Acolyte was a series that thrived on its mysteries, so it let the identity of Qimir’s one-time Jedi Master hang in the air. But finally, during the ending of the show, The Acolyte revealed just who helped Qimir get further along on his path toward darkness and Jedi-killing. So, just who is Qimir’s old Jedi Master on The Acolyte? Here’s what we learned in The Acolyte‘s finale.

Vernestra Rwoh Is Qimir’s Old Jedi Master

The character of Vernestra Rwoh, played by Rebecca Henderson, was an exciting inclusion in The Acolyte. Vernestra Rwoh hails from the Star Wars High Republic books and was one of the only familiar faces to appear in this live-action series. But it turns out that Rwoh’s story is about to become even more complicated than it was before. The Acolyte reveals that Vernestra Rwoh has been Qimir’s old Jedi Master all along.

Although there were hints and teases throughout The Acolyte, which we’ll detail below, this reveal was offered to the audience in a pretty straightforward manner. In the final sequences of The Acolyte‘s ending, Vernestra Rwoh tells a now mind-wiped Mae, “I need you to help me find someone, a pupil of mine before he turned to evil.” And there you have it. It was Vernestra Rwoh who once taught Qimir the ways of the Jedi and the Force as his Master. But clearly, their relationship went very sour along the way.

The Clues to Vernestra Rwoh and Qimir’s Jedi Connection Were There All Along

The connection between Qimir and Vernestra Rwoh did not come as a huge surprise to many The Acolyte viewers, although we are happy to receive confirmation of its existence. Fans had theorized that Vernestra Rwoh was indeed Qimir’s old Jedi Master since the question came up in episode six. The best kinds of mysteries leave clues to their solutions, after all. And The Acolyte did leave a certain trail between Master and pupil.

Vernestra Rwoh, Her Lightwhip, and Qimir’s Scar

The biggest clue to Vernestra Rwoh’s identity as Qimir’s teacher on The Acolyte was the juxtaposition of Qimir’s scar with Rwoh’s lightsaber whip in episode six. Those who knew Rwoh from the High Republic books eagerly anticipated her unique weapon making it into live-action. Rwoh herself modified her lightsaber and was the first in canon to wield a lightwhip. The crystals in her lightwhip have internal fixings that make the blade flexible and allow it to flow out of the hilt; the lightwhip blade is also thinner than that of a traditional lightsaber. Interestingly, Rwoh’s lightwhip did not make many appearances in The Acolyte, appearing only once when Rwoh killed an umbramoth in episode six.

It seems like Rwoh really did not need to use her lightwhip to kill the moth, but the appearance of the weapon came just in time for viewers to see it in action just as they first witnessed Qimir’s scar. Qimir confirms to Osha that his old Jedi Master gave him his scar. Osha notes that it looks like Qimir was stabbed, but it really looks much more like he was whipped. And who was that character just wielding a Jedi whip? Oh yes, Vernestra Rwoh. At that point, it seemed highly likely that Vernestra Rwoh was indeed the person who gave Qimir his scar and, thus, his Jedi Master on The Acolyte.

Qimir and Vernestra Rwoh Have Both Been Around a Long Time

If that weren’t enough, The Acolyte also ensured we knew that Qimir has been around for a long time, so long that the only other character who could have trained him as a Jedi is Vernestra Rwoh. Qimir reveals that he was a Jedi “a really long time ago.” He makes it sound as though he’s lived an unnaturally long life. (And now that we know he’s been hanging out with Darth Plagueis, we might assume he’s been living an unnaturally long life extended by dark side dealings.) If that’s the case, we know quite a bit of time has passed since Qimir has trained to be a Jedi. Since, of course, the Jedi are very particular about training Padawans from a young age.

No other major character on The Acolyte could bridge that span of time in order to be Qimir’s Jedi Master except Vernestra Rwoh. As a Mirialan, Vernestra Rwoh lives a much longer life than a human. And we know from the High Republic books that she’s been in the Jedi Order for a very long time.

The Tension Between Them

As The Acolyte neared its season one ending, Vernestra Rwoh and Qimir found themselves on Brendok together. Rwoh seemed to sense Qimir immediately upon arriving on the planet, noting, “You, you’re alive,” as the camera flashes between the pair of them. Qimir, of course, immediately dons his cortosis helmet to escape being sensed by her further and block her Force powers. Despite that, the two of them seem keenly aware of one another. Qimir watches Vernestra from a distance, and though he disappears before she notes him, she seems to be able to tell he was there. These moments of recognition tease a lot of history between the pair.

The Relationship Between Qimir and His Old Jedi Master Will Likely Be a Season 2 Story on The Acolyte

Ultimately though, the real story of Jedi Master Vernestra Rwoh and Padawan Qimir is yet to be told on The Acolyte. Though we now know the history the pair shares in broad strokes, we really don’t know any more about their relationship than we did in episode six. We know more or less that Qimir felt Vernestra threw him aside. And that Vernestra seems to think she’d killed Qimir, or at the very least that he was dead. But the true story between them is likely incredibly complex.

The Acolyte‘s ending teases that in season two, Vernestra Rwoh will be searching for Qimir. So we’ll have to wait for a potential season two in order to see the two of them meet face-to-face again. But we’re sure when we finally do see this meeting, it will be explosive.

The post Who Is Qimir’s Old Jedi Master? THE ACOLYTE’s Ending Reveals the Answer appeared first on Nerdist.

2023 was a major year for nerdy Emmy nominations; we saw The Last of Us, Wednesday, and other Nerdist favorites get more than a few nods. But 2024’s full list of nominees is a bit quieter when it comes to genre hits. One major reason for that is that many shows like House of the Dragon, Interview with the Vampire, and The Boys were delayed by the Hollywood strikes to a point where they don’t qualify for the 2024 Emmy nominations. Instead, we’ll see them return to the Emmys race next year in 2025. Still, the 2024 nominees aren’t totally lacking in shows for us to cheer for. One series that we loved this year, Fallout, has made a splash in the 2024 Emmy nominations. We also see Shōgun, 3 Body Problem, What We Do in the Shadows, and True Detective: Night Country making meaningful appearances.

Below, we break down the nods our favorite properties achieved and then share the full list of 2024 Emmy nominations for your reading pleasure.

Walton Goggins stole hearts on Prime Video’s Fallout series adaptation. Fans loved him in his dual role in the series, portraying both the charming Cooper Howard in the time before Fallout‘s Great War and the devilish Ghoul of the Wastelands. Walton Goggins became the true leading man of the year. And that’s why we’re thrilled to see the Emmys honoring his exquisite performance in Fallout. Yes, Walton Goggins is a 2024 Emmy nominee in the category of “Lead Actor in a Drama Series.” He’s up against some tough contenders, including Shōgun‘s Hiroyuki Sanada. But we just have to ask, did any other lead actor have to act without a nose? There should be a category in the Emmys just for that. In addition to Goggins’ nod, Fallout was also nominated in the 2024 Emmy category of “Outstanding Drama Series” overall. And boy, does it deserve that one as well.

Speaking of Shōgun, the stunning historical drama, which will now have a season two, qualifying it to be a series and not a limited series, is also up for “Outstanding Drama Series.” Shōgun received five nominations in four different categories in the 2024 Emmy race, including “Lead Actor in a Drama Series” for Hiroyuki Sanada, “Lead Actress in a Drama Series,” for Anna Sawai, “Outstanding Drama Series,” and “Supporting Actor in a Drama Series” for Tadanobu Asano and Takehiro Hira.

What We Do in the Shadows meanwhile is up for “Lead Actor in a Comedy Series” for Matt Berry and “Outstanding Comedy Series.” Finally True Detective: Night Country, another show which we truly loved, received 2024 Emmy nominations in the areas of “Lead Actress in a Limited or Anthology Series” for Jodie Foster, “Outstanding Limited or Anthology Series,” “Supporting Actress in a Limited or Anthology Series” for Kali Reis, and “Supporting Actor in a Limited or Anthology Series” for John Hawkes. That’s four nominations overall for True Detective: Night Country, and we definitely hope it sweeps.

Of additional note, X-Men ‘97 was nominated in the category of Outstanding Animated Program.

When Will the 2024 Emmys Take Place?

The 76th Emmy Awards will air on Sunday, September 15, from 8 p.m. to 11 p.m. ET/5 p.m. to 8 p.m. PT on ABC. The broadcast also stream on Hulu the next day. You can check out the full list of 2024 Emmy nominations below with more at the Emmy Awards’ site.

The Full List of 2024 Emmy Award Nominees

Lead Actor in a Drama Series

Idris Elba (“Hijack”)

Donald Glover (“Mr. & Mrs. Smith”) 

Walton Goggins (“Fallout”)  

Gary Oldman (“Slow Horses”)  

Hiroyuki Sanada (“Shōgun”)

Dominic West (“The Crown”) 

Lead Actress in a Drama Series

Jennifer Aniston (“The Morning Show”)

Carrie Coon (“The Gilded Age”)

Maya Erskine (“Mr. and Mrs. Smith”)

Anna Sawai (“Shōgun”)

Imelda Staunton (“The Crown”)

Reese Witherspoon (“The Morning Show”)

Outstanding Drama Series

“The Crown” (Netflix)

“Fallout” (Prime Video)

“The Gilded Age” (Max)

“The Morning Show” (Apple TV+)

“Mr. and Mrs. Smith” (Prime Video)

“Shōgun” (FX)

“Slow Horses” (Apple TV+)

“3 Body Problem” (Netflix)

Lead Actor in a Comedy Series

Matt Berry (“What We Do in the Shadows”)

Larry David (“Curb Your Enthusiasm”)  

Steve Martin (“Only Murders in the Building”)  

Martin Short (“Only Murders in the Building”)  

Jeremy Allen White (“The Bear”)

D’Pharaoh Woon-A-Tai (“Reservation Dogs”)

Lead Actress in a Comedy Series

Quinta Brunson (“Abbott Elementary”)

Ayo Edebiri (“The Bear”)

Selena Gomez (“Only Murders in the Building”)

Maya Rudolph (“Loot”)

Jean Smart (“Hacks”)

Kristen Wiig (“Palm Royale”)

Outstanding Comedy Series

“Abbott Elementary” (ABC)

“The Bear” (FX)

“Curb Your Enthusiasm” (Max)

“Hacks” (Max)

“Only Murders in the Building” (Hulu)

“Palm Royale” (Apple TV+)

“Reservation Dogs” (FX)

“What We Do in the Shadows” (FX)

Lead Actor in a Limited or Anthology Series

Matt Bomer (“Fellow Travelers”)  

Richard Gadd (“Baby Reindeer”)  

Jon Hamm (“Fargo”)  

Tom Hollander — “Feud: Capote vs. the Swans” 

Andrew Scott (“Ripley”)

Lead Actress in a Limited or Anthology Series

Jodie Foster (“True Detective: Night Country”)  

Brie Larson (“Lessons in Chemistry”)  

Juno Temple (“Fargo”)  

Sofia Vergara (“Griselda”) 

Naomi Watts (“Feud: Capote vs. the Swans”)

Outstanding Limited or Anthology Series

“Baby Reindeer” (Netflix)

“Fargo” (FX)

“Lessons in Chemistry” (Apple TV+)

“Ripley” (Netflix)

“True Detective: Night Country” (Max)

Outstanding Talk Series

“The Daily Show”  

“Jimmy Kimmel Live!”   

“Late Night With Seth Meyers”

“The Late Show With Stephen Colbert”

Outstanding Reality Competition Program

“The Amazing Race”

“RuPaul’s Drag Race”

“Top Chef”

“The Traitors”

“The Voice”

Supporting Actress in a Drama Series

Christine Baranski (“The Gilded Age”)

Nicole Beharie (“The Morning Show”)

Elizabeth Debicki (“The Crown Netflix”)

Greta Lee (“The Morning Show”)

Lesley Manville (“The Crown”)

Karen Pittman (“The Morning Show”)

Holland Taylor (“The Morning Show”)

Supporting Actor in a Drama Series

Tadanobu Asano (“Shōgun”)

Billy Crudup (“The Morning Show”)

Mark Duplass (“The Morning Show”)

Jon Hamm (“The Morning Show”)

Takehiro Hira (“Shōgun”)

Jack Lowden (“Slow Horses”)

Jonathan Pryce (“The Crown”)

Supporting Actress in a Comedy Series

Carol Burnett (“Palm Royale”)

Liza Colón-Zayas (“The Bear”)

Hannah Einbinder (“Hacks”)

Janelle James (“Abbott Elementary”)

Sheryl Lee Ralph (“Abbott Elementary”)

Meryl Streep (“Only Murders In The Building”)

Supporting Actor in a Comedy Series

Lionel Boyce (“The Bear”)

Paul W. Downs (“Hacks”)

Ebon Moss-Bachrach (“The Bear”)

Paul Rudd (“Only Murders In The Building”)

Tyler James Williams (“Abbott Elementary”)

Bowen Yang (“Saturday Night Live”)

Supporting Actress in a Limited or Anthology Series

Dakota Fanning (“Ripley”)

Lily Gladstone (“Under The Bridge”)

Jessica Gunning (“Baby Reindeer”)

Aja Naomi King (“Lessons In Chemistry”)

Diane Lane (“Feud: Capote vs. The Swans”)

Nava Mau (“Baby Reindeer”)

Kali Reis (“True Detective: Night Country”)

Supporting Actor in a Limited or Anthology Series

Jonathan Bailey “(Fellow Travelers”)

Robert Downey Jr. (“The Sympathizer”)

Tom Goodman-Hill (“Baby Reindeer”)

John Hawkes (“True Detective: Night Country”)

Lamorne Morris (“Fargo”)

Lewis Pullman (“Lessons In Chemistry”)

Treat Williams (“Feud: Capote vs. The Swans”)

The post 2024 Emmy Nominations Celebrate FALLOUT—Complete List Revealed appeared first on Nerdist.

Prime Video’s Fallout series made quite a splash when it arrived on our screens this year. In fact, one might say it exploded onto the scene. Not only did the Fallout series beautifully adapt the beloved video game franchise, but in many ways, it actually enhanced it. The show actively added to the universe’s lore and brought us Easter eggs with deep roots. Of course, it also introduced us to a trio of main characters that we absolutely adore, including Walton Goggins’ Ghoul. However, the live-action Fallout show is still a relatively new series, which means it doesn’t yet have a ton of merchandise to go along with it. But we have great news for Fallout fans. Mutant is releasing two versions of a gorgeous new Fallout poster, and we have an exclusive new look at it below.

Mutant’s Fallout Poster Will Release a Timed Version Online

Fallout‘s Wasteland has quite literally never looked better than it does in Mutant’s new poster celebrating the Prime Video series. Like the series itself, this Fallout poster by Daniel Danger spotlights our three main characters, Lucy MacLean, Maximus, and the Ghoul, and then hides a ton of fabulous Easter eggs into the mix. We spy the famous Fallout quote, “War never changes,” a bottle of Nuka Cola, and more in this exquisite poster. Of course, Mutant’s poster understands that the true fourth main character of the Fallout series is the Dogmeat-like companion CX404. And we’re glad to see this good boy get his day. Hopefully, he can climb on up to visit with The Ghoul soon. Speaking of The Ghoul, we’re obsessed with his tiny likeness on this poster, front and center where he deserves to be.

This warm-colored version of Mutant’s Fallout poster is the Timed Edition, which will be available online. We love how the reds, oranges, and yellows reflect the apocalyptic and desert-like setting of the Fallout show. It’s a perfect combination. You can check out how to buy this version of Mutant’s Fallout poster below.

How Can You Buy the Timed Edition of Mutant’s Fallout Poster? When Does It Release and How Much Does It Cost?

The Timed Edition of Mutant’s Fallout poster will be available to purchase online at madebymutant.com so everyone can snag one for themselves. Instead of having a specific edition number, this version of the poster will be available for a specific time-frame, so as long as you get online during that period of time, you can get a Fallout poster of your own from Mutant. The Timed Edition will be on sale from 10am PT/12pm CT on Wednesday, 7/24, until 10am PT/12pm CT on Wednesday, 7/31. That’s a good long time to take one home.

The Timed Edition will cost $65. As mentioned, its artwork is by Daniel Danger. The poster will be a 24″x36″ Screenprint.

Mutant’s Fallout Poster Will Also Have a Limited Variant Edition Available as an SDCC Exclusive

However, video game players will know that some prizes are rarer than others. And if you want to get an extra rare poster or just want to have a complete set, take note. Mutant will a limited Variant Edition of its Fallout poster available at San Diego Comic-Con as an SDCC exclusive. This limited-edition SDCC version of Fallout offering has the same artwork as its Timed Version. But, this time, the Mutant poster will be all done up in Fallout‘s signature colors. Blue and yellow take center stage for this limited variant. And that’s a pretty nifty Easter egg for the die-hard Fallout fan.

You can take a closer look at the Variant Edition of the Fallout Mutant poster above.

How Can You Buy the SDCC Variant Edition of Mutant’s Fallout Poster? When Does It Release and How Much Does It Cost?

The SDCC Variant Edition of Mutant’s Fallout poster will be available Mutant’s booth (616) during SDCC. The Fallout poster will become available at the Mutant booth beginning Wednesday, 7/24. It will have a Variant Edition of 140—so if this is on your must-have list, don’t delay in visiting the Mutant booth.

The Variant Edition of the Fallout poster will cost $80. It will otherwise have the same details as the Timed Edition.

Should the world end, we know we’d want this poster on the walls of our Vault. (Or hanging inside our power armor, or in whatever corner of the Wasteland we end up in.) Whichever version of Mutant’s Fallout poster you have your eye on, it’s definitely worth the space in your inventory.

The post Mutant’s Gorgeous FALLOUT Series Poster Is Available Online But Has an SDCC Exclusive Variant appeared first on Nerdist.

In episode four of House of the Dragon, the Greens and the Blacks finally clashed in a proper conflict at the Battle of Rook’s Rest. While Rhaenyra and the Blacks suffered a powerful loss, the death of Rhaenys and her dragon Meleys, the Greens did not come out of the conflict unharmed. However, a great deal of the damage dealt to the Greens came not from Rhaenyra’s side, but from the choices that Aemond Targaryen made in battle, especially where it concerned his brother King Aegon. Aemond sent out a blast of dragonfire that grievously wounded both his brother Aegon and Aegon’s dragon, Sunfyre. But does that make Aemond Targaryen the King of the Seven Kingdoms on House of the Dragon? Not exactly, but Aegmond has taken on a great deal of power.

Aemond Is Not King on House of the Dragon Season 2, But He Is Prince Regent

No, despite (what we consider) to be Aemond’s attempts to kill his brother on House of the Dragon season two, episode four, Aemond has not yet become King. For the moment, Aegon remains alive in episode five, although badly injured. To get the full title of King of the Andals and the Rhoynar and the First Men, Aemond probably should have moved quicker and actually stabbed his brother in the prior episode of House of the Dragon.

However, Aemond has now gained considerable power on House of the Dragon. Aemond is named Prince Regent by Aegon’s small council. As Queen Alicent notes, “A king cannot rule in his sleep, the realm will have noticed his absence… we must name a Regent to take his place until he recovers… or does not.” To keep the crown appearing stable, someone must rule.

Queen Alicent Lobbies to be Named Regent, But Aemond Is Placed in Charge Instead

Queen Alicent aims to become Regent and rule in Aegon’s stead on House of the Dragon. She wishes to keep justice and order, and not merely strength as an important part of the ruling strategy. However, in a reminder of the intense misogyny that exists in House of the Dragon‘s world, Alicent gets overruled by all the men around her. And Aemond becomes Prince Reagent instead (although, again, not King).

Alicent notes that she served as Queen Reagent for her husband and is well-prepared to do it again. But her years of actual experience are dismissed because she has only ruled during peacetime. And, of course, there’s the matter of her being a woman. (“What would it say if, in response to Rhaenyra’s crowning, we raised up a woman of our own.”)

Not even Alicent’s allies, whom she has intimate relationships with in different ways, Ser Larys Strong (responsible for the last quote) and Ser Criston Cole, rally to her defense. Instead, they abandon her, citing that Aemond is next-in-line to be King, and thus, the better choice for Reagant on House of the Dragon. Only Grand Maester Orwyle speaks in support of Alicent.

Ultimately, Alicent is ignored as Aemond is named Prince Reagent and takes one step closer to being King.

Is Aegon Dead on House of the Dragon?

As mentioned, for now, King Aegon II is not dead and remains alive. Unless he meets his death, Aemond cannot take over as king on House of the Dragon. However, although Aegon lives, he remains incredibly injured. It will likely take him a long time to fully recover. And with Aemond now in a far more powerful position, should he be able to successfully prove himself in the position of Regent, it could strengthen his cause to volley for the position. There’s also the fact that Aegon wasn’t really a very good ruler to begin with.

Will Aemond Become King on House of the Dragon? And Will He Be a Good King?

Will becoming Prince Regent be the first step Aemond takes toward becoming King on House of the Dragon? Obviously, those who want an informed, immediate answer can pull out their copy of George R.R. Martin’s Fire & Blood. Of course, the series continues to change things from the source material, so it’s possible Aemond and Aegon’s fates could shift as well, and the ultimate position of King could end up somewhere unexpected.

Prince Regent Aemond obviously desires Kingship and believes he is a more suitable candidate than his brother for the crown. If he had his way, Aemond would become king, and he’ll likely continue to push for the role. But would Aemond make for a good king on House of the Dragon? As Prince Regent, and beforehand, he has made some, at least strategically sound decisions. For instance, Aemond instigated the battle of Rook’s Rest and demanded the Ratcatchers’ bodies removed from sight. However, as his mother points out, he is young and lacks restraint. (Although no more than Aegon.) He also bars exit from King’s Landing in episode five of season two, which does not seem to sit well with the people. So it’s a mixed start for Aemond’s go at ruling.

Aegon’s actor Tom Glynn-Carney chimed in on what kind of a King Aemond would make, noting, “He’d be a steel fist, wouldn’t he? I think he’d be quite cutthroat and a cold king, probably. At least from the outset, he’d want people to fear him. He often talks about being bullied as a child, so he probably wants to reinstate himself as a secure, powerful man who won’t be messed with, which could be dangerous in a kingly position.”

We’ll have to wait and see who ultimately rules the Seven Kingdoms. But our two cents is better Aemond as King than Aegon on House of the Dragon.

The post Is Aemond King on HOUSE OF THE DRAGON? Here’s Who Is Ruling Right Now appeared first on Nerdist.

Somehow, House of the Dragon season two is closer to its finale than its premiere. And things are certainly heating up if the House of the Dragon season two, episode six trailer is to be believed. On the side of the Blacks, Rhaenyra Targaryen and her son Jace are searching for new dragonriders to ride the unclaimed dragons at their side. Meanwhile, the Greens are facing interpersonal conflict as the injured Aegon wakes up to face his brother, Aemond, who felled him. There’s a lot of tension and a lot of fire on the way.

You can check out the full trailer for House of the Dragon season two, episode six, below.

As always on House of the Dragon, episode six’s trailer promises many complicated relationships coming to a head. Rhaenyra vs. Daemon. Daemon vs. Aemond. Aemond vs. Aegon. That’s just a drop in the bucket of the intense familial struggles we’ll soon see explode. And that’s only if no one dies in dragon fire first.

As episode five of House of the Dragon set up, House of the Dragon episode six’s trailer teases more dragons will be coming back into play. It looks like the dragon Silverwing may be joining in on the House of the Dragon season two excitement. But remember, to claim a dragon, you must also be prepared to die. We have a few ideas about which characters might make for good dragonriders, but we’ll have to wait and see who becomes a new dragonlord in episode six.

House of the Dragon season two, episode six, will air on July 21 at 9 PM on HBO and Max. You can check out more about House of the Dragon season two’s full release schedule here. In the meantime, brush up on your dragon names and get ready for some major clashes as House of the Dragon continues.

The post HOUSE OF THE DRAGON Season 2, Episode 6 Trailer Teases New Dragons and an Aemond vs Daemon Showdown appeared first on Nerdist.

House of the Dragon is all about characters with complicated motivations. But in the latest episode of House of the Dragon, viewers witnessed one of the most complicated character decisions yet. During the huge battle at Rook’s Rest, it really seemed like Aemond Targaryen willingly blasted his brother, King Aegon, and his brother’s dragon, Sunfyre, with a stream of fire from his own creature, Vhagar. But was Aemond intentionally trying to kill Aegon in House of the Dragon episode four? Let’s examine the evidence.

Was Aemond Really Trying to Kill Aegon on House of the Dragon?

There are many reasons why it would make sense, or it wouldn’t, for Aemond to have intentionally been trying to kill his brother Aegon on the battlefield. Of course, there’s the question of family and loyalty… and dragons. If Aemond really intended to kill the king and the king’s dragon, it would leave his immediate family’s side of the war in a significantly weakened position. In fact, Aemond’s attack on Aegon made it so that the Greens did not come out of the battle of Rook’s Rest with a clear victory. Yes, Rhaenyra Targaryen lost an ally dragon, but so did Aemond’s side of the fence. (At least for now.) That’s a huge sacrifice to make and doesn’t seem like all that rational of a decision.

However, Aemond also seems to look down on his brother, who really does not have the strategic mind or correct attitude to be King. Aemond seems to (rightfully) believe he possesses the superior skills to lead a war and a better temperament to rule. With Aegon out of the way, Aemond could also imagine ascending to kingship himself.

In season one of House of the Dragon, Aemond even notes, “Here I am, trawling the city, ever the good soldier in search of a wastrel who’s never taken half an interest in his birthright. ‘Tis I the younger brother who studies history and philosophy; it is I who trains with the sword, who rides the largest dragon in the world. I’m next in line to the throne. Should they come looking for me, I intend to be found.” The desire to be king instead of Aegon burns bright in Aemond, and the way he has taken over the strategic efforts of the war for the Greens indicates this desire has not gone anywhere.

Perhaps, ultimately, Aemond did not really intend to kill Aegon with his whole heart, but in the heat of the moment, he could not resist the impulse to try.

Aemond’s Actor Chimes in on His Intentions Toward Aegon

Just watching the episode, one might lean toward the side of Aemond sincerely attempting to kill Aegon. But Aemond’s actor, Ewan Mitchell, feels it’s more complicated than that, and he is the best source of knowledge on Aemond, after all. Mitchell shares, “It was no secret that he felt like Aegon was inferior to himself… He felt like Aegon lacked the perseverance to be a leader. Also, it’s no secret that Aegon was almost the ringleader to a lot of Aemond’s childhood torment and trauma.”

But Mitchell also adds of whether Aemond would actually kill Aegon, “I think that maybe Aemond would never have intended to burn Aegon, but it just so happened that Aegon was there tangled with Rhaenys and Meleys when he was on top of Sunfyre. It raises the question of whether or not he would’ve done that or if Aegon was just collateral damage. I think that’s compelling. Maybe it was when Aegon brought in the Pink Dread [as children] when Aemond was like, ‘I’m going to burn him one day for this.’ Who knows?”

Ultimately, the House of the Dragon episode’s director Alan Taylor concludes, “We wanted to sustain multiple motivations that might have happened there. It’s a battle move, but he did deliberately join the battle late, and he is being a little bit indiscriminate with how he’s blasting fire. So I think you can believe whatever you want to believe about his motivations there.”

We Feel Like Aemond Did Intend to Kill Aegon on House of the Dragon

If whatever we say goes, we’re going to have to go with Aemond really attempting to kill his brother Aegon in House of the Dragon episode four. The framing of the shot when Aegon believes Aemond has arrived to help him and is instead blasted with fire seems to speak to the idea that Aegon was fully wrong in his belief. And what’s the opposite of helping someone? Harming them. In that moment, it’s clear that Aemond has not arrived to save his brother.

Add to this Aemond drawing his sword on his fallen brother toward the end of the episode, and all the ingredients for desired murder are there.

What Happens Now with Aemond and Aegon on House of the Dragon?

In episode five of House of the Dragon, we get a sense of the fallout from Aemond’s decisions. Aegon is gravely injured—he is burned from dragonfire and has many broken bones from the fight and fall. Grand Maester Orwyle implies he has many internal injuries as well. It remains unclear whether he will survive and live; death remains a totally plausible outcome for Aegon on House of the Dragon. In the meanwhile, the Greens must elect a Regent to rule in his stead. Although Alicent attempts to advocate for herself to be placed in the role, everyone, from Ser Larys Strong to Ser Criston Cole, turns on her, and Aemond is instead declared the Prince Regent. Although Aemond is not King, he is now in control, as, ostensibly, he planned to be. At the end of the episode, we see Aegon looking longingly at the Iron Throne.  Helaena asks him if his actions were worth it. But undoubtedly, Aemond considers that they are.

For now, King Aegon remains alive . But if Aegon does die from these injuries, it is surely Aemond who really killed him on House of the Dragon.

Originally published on July 10, 2024.

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Soon, we’ll be heading back to Hawkins, Indiana for the final time. Stranger Things is in production on its final season. And it turns out, Stranger Things 5 is halfway through filming. To celebrate this milestone, Stranger Things has released a behind-the-scenes look at the monumental season. In it, we see all our favorite characters returning, catch sneak peeks of sets and action, and welcome new cast to the mix. For those who have been waiting for new news from Stranger Things 5, it’s an exciting two minutes. You can check out this behind-the-scenes look at the set of the final season of Stranger Things, below.

As Millie Bobby Brown, who plays Eleven, on the series, notes, she was ten when she began working on Stranger Things, and now she’s twenty. That’s a long time for fans and creators to spend with the show. It’s hard to believe there will be no more Stranger Things after Stranger Things 5 hits our screens. But we’re taking in every last detail. We’re thrilled that this featurette teases all our favorite things, including the friendship between Steve and Robin, Dustin’s homage to the fallen Eddie (who we still insist should come back to life), and our favorite duo, Lucas and Max.

Additionally, this featurette welcomes new cast to Stranger Things 5. Joining the actors we already know and love on the last season of Stranger Things are Nell Fisher, Jake Connelly, and Alex Breaux. Netflix has not yet confirmed who they play. We also see Linda Hamilton’s new Stranger Things character among the rest.

Click To View Gallery

The behind-the-scenes look at Stranger Things 5 doesn’t come with any kind of official synopsis yet. But we see Vecna is back in action and plenty of teases at the Upside Down. Although Hawkins doesn’t seem to be totally destroyed. So, we guess that’s something.

Does Stranger Things 5 Have a Release Date?

For now, Stranger Things 5 doesn’t yet have a release date. We’ll just have to wait patiently for more news and teases. In the meantime, we can rewatch old season on Netflix.

The post STRANGER THINGS 5 Halfway Through Filming, Celebrate the Final Season with BTS Look appeared first on Nerdist.

When you’re a Pokémon trainer, you have to travel far and wide to become the very best, like no one ever was. But you won’t get far on all these journeys to catch ’em all if your Poké Balls are flying everywhere and you don’t have a good place to keep your hat, Pokémoney, and treats for your Pokémon. And that’s where Loungefly COLLECTIV’s new Pokémon collection comes in. This collection will bring fashionable and functional fandom to your life, making sure you’re free to adventure to your heart’s desire while knowing your gear is well-made and celebrating your favorite franchise.

Loungefly COLLECTIV’s Pokémon Collection Reveals a New Backpack, Bag, and Wallet

So what awaits you in Loungefly COLLECTIV’s fabulous Pokémon collection? Well, trainers can take another step toward become Pokémon Masters with a Poké Ball decorated backpack, convertible bag, and wallet. Each of these excellent items have subtle Pikachus decorating them.

A release shares more about this new Loungefly Pokémon collection:

The COLLECTIV line draws its name from the way fashion connects fans, while offering subtle, functional designs that are an extension of fan-favorite franchises and characters. The Pokémon collection features an all-new full-size COLLECTR Backpack ($125 MSRP) and ARTST Convertible Bag ($75 MSRP) and ORGANIZR Wallet ($40 MSRP) decorated in sleek, debossed Poké Ball patterns. A peek inside each reveals Pikachu-themed lining, with the iconic Pokémon making an appearance under each accessory’s top flap.

You can take a closer look at the collection below. The Pokémon COLLECTIV collection will soon be available on Loungefly.com.

COLLECTR Backpack

Click To View Gallery

ARTST Convertible Bag

Click To View Gallery

ORGANIZR Wallet

Click To View Gallery

More About Loungefly COLLECTIV Accessories

Loungefly COLLECTIV is a “line draws its name from the way fashion connects fans, while offering subtle, functional designs that are an extension of fan-favorite franchises and characters.” Past Loungefly COLLECTIV releases have included Loki and Star Wars collections, and we can personally vouch for their quality and cool fannish sensibilities. We can’t wait to see what’s coming next for the line and are ready to get out there and catch all the piece’s of this Loungefly Pokémon collection.

The post Fashion, Function, and Pikachu Meet in Loungefly COLLECTIV’s New POKÉMON Collection appeared first on Nerdist.

Ready for even more of Rick and Morty‘s wild world? Well, you’re in luck because we’re about to see the show in a whole new way. Adult Swim has officially ordered a Rick and Morty anime series. Of course, we’ve seen Rick and Morty anime shorts before, but they’ve been, well, short. This time, Rick and Morty: The Anime will get a full ten episodes, according to Deadline. And we finally have a release date for Rick and Morty: The Anime, which is August 15 on Adult Swim with a Max release the following day. Adult Swim has released a few clips and trailers to tease the series. All of these offer us a good glimpse of the animation and a sense of what this Rick and Morty anime will unleash.

Rick and Morty: The Anime Clips, Teasers, and More

Rick and Morty: The Anime: The Official Trailer

After several clips and sneak peeks, we finally have a full trailer and it serves all the common Rick & Morty weirdness with an anime twist.

Rick and Morty: The Anime: The Entropy Bomb Clip

If there’s one thing Rick and Morty: The Anime is giving to us, it’s sneak peeks galore. You can check out the latest sneak peek below.

Rick and Morty: The Anime Clip: Tammy vs. Space Beth

Another look at Rick and Morty: The Anime reveals an epic battle between well-known Rick and Morty villain Tammy Gueterman and the sharp-shooting Space Beth. (Plus some trigger-happy insect-like alien creatures.) It’s definitely one excellent fight, and incredibly well animated, too. We can’t wait to see what else this series has in store.

Rick and Morty: The Anime Clip: Philosophical Rick

Our next look at Rick and Morty: The Anime is a fairly meditative one, especially compared to the galactic fight we just witnessed. Although there may be a lot of shenanigans in store, there will also be some quiet moments of contemplation. And we’d expect nothing else. Although we live in infinite possibilities, we only get one life that we choose. And how are we spending it? Watching Rick and Morty: The Anime. We regret nothing.

Rick and Morty: The Anime Clip: Parallel Universes

Meanwhile, the description of Rick and Morty: The Anime‘s other latest sneak peek clip shares, “While flying near space distortion, Rick finds himself surrounded by multiple versions of himself from parallel universes.” This one brings a little more action to the table.

Rick and Morty: The Anime Teaser Trailer

Finally, our last teaser trailer for the Rick and Morty anime comes with some insights from director Takashi Sano. Take a look at what he has to say about bringing Rick and Morty into this whole new world.

Although there’s no release date yet, we’re excited to see the progress on the show. Eventually, this Rick and Morty offshoot will air on Adult Swim and Max. As far as where it stands in canon, Rick and Morty: The Anime will remain separate from the main series. But it will, however, “adapt themes and events from the original title.” The teaser trailer doesn’t reveal much more to us than that. The show does not yet have an official synopsis.

Rick and Morty: The Anime‘s Release Date

Adult Swim has confirmed that Rick and Morty: The Anime‘s English Language version will debut on August 15 while the Japanese Language version will arrive on August 17.

Rick and Morty‘s Anime History and Future

As mentioned, Takashi Sano, who directed Tower of God, will also direct this series. Sano led two of the aforementioned Rick and Morty anime shorts already. He directed both “Rick and Morty vs. Genocider” and “Summer Meets God (Rick Meets Evil).”

We’ve greatly enjoyed both these previous Rick and Morty anime outings. They’ve been touching, confusing, weird, and really excellent additions to the franchise as a whole. Clearly, Adult Swim thought so too.

Sano’s Rick and Morty anime shorts accomplished so much with so little space, we can’t imagine what he’ll do with a full ten episodes. We wonder if each episode will stand alone or if there will be a throughline connecting them all together. It’s too early to tell, but at least we know the series is in safe hands. Not just anyone could adapt Rick and Morty‘s world successfully.

Sano recently shared at SDCC 2023 (via Comicbook.com), “What I’ve tried to accomplish in 10 episodes is to take all of my favorite parts of Rick and Morty…compress them down to extract their essence, and then add a unique Japanese twist. I’d like you to enjoy Rick and Morty‘s adventures as they’re whisked through time and space, tangled up in all sorts of chaos… And after all 10 episodes I think you’ll find yourself in a particular state of mind. And that state, I believe, best reflects the feelings I get watching Rick and Morty. I hope you enjoy the new series. Please, do check it out!”

This Rick and Morty Outing Will Be Subbed

Rick and Morty: The Anime will also be subbed and not dubbed, like the show’s anime shorts before it.

As we wait for this new show, we’ll be rewatching the shorts that already exist and pondering the infinite possibilities this upcoming series offers to us. We have a feeling our minds are about to be blown.

Originally published on May 18, 2022.

The post RICK AND MORTY: THE ANIME Reveals August Release Date and Wacky Trailer appeared first on Nerdist.

Captain America is back in a brand new MCU movie, and this time, it’s Sam Wilson, played by Anthony Mackie, holding the shield. The first trailer for Captain America: Brave New World sets a stark tone, reviving the political thriller mood of Civil War. We also get our first glimpse of Thaddeus Ross’ Red Hulk (and Harrison Ford’s turn in the MCU), the destruction of the White House, and lots of shooting and conspiring. The president wants to make Captain America an official military position. What could go wrong?

You can watch the Captain America: Brave New World teaser trailer below.

Captain America: Brave New World‘s First Trailer Releases

The trailer for Captain America: Brave New World deftly addresses Thaddeus Ross’ recasting, as sadly,  William Hurt passed away, and Harrison Ford is now playing the role. Of course, Ross isn’t the only role that Ford will play. The Marvel Studios movie will introduce his transformation into Red Hulk. You can check out our first look at Red Hulk below.

We can already see that this MCU movie will be unlike any we’ve seen in a while. The gritty political/espionage thriller energy is back to visit Captain America in this Brave New World trailer. There are bombs going off, political machinations at play, and everything feels tense and ready to explode.

Captain America: Brave New World‘s Synopsis

In addition to the trailer, Marvel Studios releases a synopsis for Captain America: Brave New World. It shares:

After meeting with newly elected U.S. President Thaddeus Ross, played by Harrison Ford in his Marvel Cinematic Universe debut, Sam finds himself in the middle of an international incident. He must discover the reason behind a nefarious global plot before the true mastermind has the entire world seeing red.

Captain America: Brave New World‘s Trailer Reveals New and Familiar Faces

In addition to Anthony Mackie, Captain America: Brave New World stars Anthony Mackie, Danny Ramirez, Shira Haas, Xosha Roquemore, Carl Lumbly, with Giancarlo Esposito, Liv Tyler, Tim Blake Nelson, and Harrison Ford.

Danny Ramirez, of course, returns as the new Falcon in the Captain America movie after his turn in The Falcon and the Winter Soldier. We’re glad to see him. And Carl Lumbly is back as Isaiah Bradley, though we don’t love he’s ostensibly being mind-controlled in the Captain America: Brave New World trailer. Tim Blake Nelson, we know, will play Leader. Meanwhile, Giancarlo Esposito’s role has not been confirmed, but we see some good looks at him in the trailer.

When Will Captain America: Brave New World Release?

Captain America: Brave New World will release in theaters on February 14, 2025.

The post CAPTAIN AMERICA: BRAVE NEW WORLD Trailer Introduces Red Hulk, Sets Political Thriller Tone appeared first on Nerdist.

There’s nothing fans love more than a well-placed cameo. Of course, on a series like House of the Dragon, cameos come in all shapes and sizes. A cameo can mean a character connected to House of the Dragon from Game of Thrones appeared on the scene, or it can mean a particularly cool actor turned up on the hit show. The major House of the Dragon season two cameo in episodes three and four was not precisely either one of those things, but it sure did delight fans. Here’s how Milly Alcock returned to our screens as young Rhaenyra on House of the Dragon season two’s third and fourth episodes.

Milly Alcock Returns as Young Rhaenyra Targaryen in a House of the Dragon Season 2 Cameo

Surprise! Milly Alcock made an unexpected cameo as young Rhaenyra Targaryen in House of the Dragon season two, episode three and then returned again in episode four. We suppose it makes sense that the younger versions of the characters could appear for a flashback or dream sequence at any time, but we weren’t really planning on seeing much of Milly Alcock on House of the Dragon in season two.

At the beginning of season one of House of the Dragon, it was impossible to imagine anyone but Milly Alcock playing the role of Rhaenyra Targaryen. But House of the Dragon achieved the nearly impossible and cast so well that trading younger versions of the characters for older ones happened seamlessly. Though we absolutely love Emma D’Arcy as Rhaenyra, it sure was nice to see Milly Alcock return in the role for one more scene. It brought us back to everything we loved so much about the characters before the time skip.

What Was Milly Alcock’s Young Rhaenyra Doing in House of the Dragon Season 2, Episodes 3 and 4?

Milly Alcock’s Young Rhaenyra’s Episode 3 House of the Dragon Cameo

But what was Milly Alcock’s young Rhaenyra up to in her House of the Dragon season two cameo? Well, she returned to haunt Daemon’s mind in a couple of half nightmare and half a prophetic visions. First up, Milly Alcock appeared in episode three. As Daemon paced his haunted, rain-soaked room in Harrenhal, he was overtaken by a dream. Following mysterious noises and movements, he made his way through the darkened hallways and turned a corner to find who else but young Rhaenyra. Milly Alcock’s Rhaenyra sits by a fire, eerily humming and cradling the dead Prince Jaehaerys Targaryen as she sews his severed head back onto his neck.

“Always coming and going, aren’t you,” young Rhaenyra levels at Daemon in the House of the Dragon season two episode. “And I have to clean up afterward.” Daemon looks truly jolted by this encounter, but before he can say anything, the dream ends. But in his vision state, Daemon has made his way out to Harrenhal’s weirwood tree where he’s greeted with a prophecy of his own death.

Milly Alcock’s Young Rhaenyra’s Episode 4 House of the Dragon Cameo

In episode four, Milly Alcock’s young Rhaenyra returns again to haunt Daemon’s mind. This time young Rhaenyra is dressed in the same dress that adult Rhaenyra wore when Daemon choked her in a moment of anger and envy in season one of the series. She’s also wearing a crown and standing before the iron throne, implying she’s become queen. In her cameo, Milly Alcock’s young Rhaenyra first addresses Daemon in High Valryian. She says the following phrases, some of which are translated by subtitles on HBO and so of which have been translated by fans:

It’s been said that Targaryens are closer to gods than men…

In my eyes, you were a god. Daemon Targaryen. The Prince of the City. The Lord of Flea Bottom.

I was an innocent. You exploited me and abandoned me. You sullied my name at court. You empowered my rivals. You tried to make my ruin.

You put me on that throne. And you love me and you hate me for it.

You created me, Daemon. Yet you are now set on destroying me.

All because your brother loved me more than he did you.

This is what you always wanted, is it not?

Right before young Rhaenyra says her last phrase to Dameon, he unsheaths his sword and chops off her head. But that does not stop her from addressing him again.

What Do Daemon’s Visions of Young Rhaenyra Mean on House of the Dragon Season 2?

Harrenhal is a cursed place where felled weirwood trees make up the rafters, and everything is a little strange. It’s no surprise that supernatural-feeling visions emerge when one spends time there. While Daemon’s visions of young Rhaenyra aren’t necessarily prophetic, it does feel like greater forces coming to tell Daemon that he’s been really making a mess of things. It’s also interesting that in Daemon’s mind, it’s Milly Alcock’s young Rhaenyra who scolds him on House of the Dragon season two, not the full-grown version of the woman to whom he is married. This Milly Alcock cameo offers a fascinating insight into how Daemon sees their relationship. In a way, it feels like Daemon preferred Rhaenyra before she had power and responsibility and also, perhaps, respected and listened to her more when that was the case.

In the case of the second vision, it seems that Milly Alcock is telling Daemon everything he knows is true as young Rhaenyra. Daemon refuses to acknowledge these truths, but they are inside of him, haunting him in Harrenhal where one cannot escape their demons. And even killing Rhaenyra won’t make those truths stop bubbling up inside of him. Daemon also knows that if he were to ever take the throne for himself, he would have to kill Rhaenyra—but even dead, he would not be able to prevail over her. He would still feel like a diminished ruler when measured up against her.

Young Rhaenyra’s First House of the Dragon Season 2 Cameo Is All About Daemon’s Guilt

Beyond that, for Daemon, his initial vision of young Rhaenyra also serves as the first manifestation of true remorse for his actions that we’ve seen. House of the Dragon director Geeta Vasant Patel offered more insight into the cameo scene, Daemon’s feelings in it, and what Milly Alcock’s presence brought to the table, sharing:

At least in my eyes, that’s what it was. “That’s the Rhaenyra I know.” And in that dream, she looks at him — and the way we talked about it is she doesn’t need to say anything. We just worked on the look; the meaning that comes from all the episodes before she looks at him, and she cuts him. She says, “Hey, you killed a boy. You don’t do that.”

People have said that to him all the way through. But when young Rhaenyra says it to him, it’s the first time he feels it. It’s the first time he processes his actions, though he’s been killing people left and right since the beginning. This is the first time we see him regret. We see him feel. We actually kept talking, in between takes, about how this is something we’ve never seen before in Daemon.

There was a take where Matt went in, and he just kept saying, “No, I need another take. I need another take.” He was really such a hardworking actor on this, and all of a sudden I saw his face break after Milly looked at him. I just saw his hands loosen, and I saw the tear in his eye. Then I had a tear in my eye because we both felt it. Even the crew got emotional at that moment. And it wasn’t about House of the Dragon, it was about making a mistake that you deeply regret that hurt somebody else. It’s just that simple. That’s what I love about working on this show. I like to think that it is a documentary with dragons. We always try to make it feel real; like something we can relate to.

But will young Rhaenyra’s cameo appearances actually serve to change anything in Daemon beyond offering moments of grief and clarity, or will Milly Alcock have to return to House of the Dragon again and again to achieve that? We’ll have to see what awaits Daemon outside the world of dreams and back in reality.

Originally published on July 3, 2024.

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Okay, so Max isn’t dead, exactly. But HBO has returned from its Max-imposed exile. After unceremoniously removing the iconic three letters from its streamer’s name and turning HBO Max into just Max, Warner Bros. Discovery is bringing the HBO brand back into play. We assume that the company has rightfully assessed that the brand identity associated with HBO will help sell its products. Of course, many could have shared that insight before HBO was cut from the operation. But we’re glad it’s back now.

A new report from Variety reveals that according to HBO and Max content CEO Casey Bloys, there will now be a delineation between “Max Shows” and “HBO Shows,” and unsurprisingly, most of Max’s upcoming IP projects will be termed “HBO shows.” The publication notes this includes the It prequel, Welcome to Derry, the Green Lantern DC series, Lanterns, and the upcoming Harry Potter project will all fall under the banner of “HBO Show.” This is an interesting shift considering the company’s considerable efforts to get everyone to accept the Max brand.

Bloys shares, “We felt like we had to delineate between an HBO show and a Max show. The idea of using Warner Bros. IP as a delineation for Max felt right. At least that gives you a clear lane. But as we started producing those shows, we were using the same methods, the same kind of thinking, as how we would approach HBO shows. In a lot of cases, the same talent that has worked on HBO shows.” And further comments, “What we ended up with is shows at this scope and scale that look great, and great narratives and talent we’ve worked with. The idea of the delineation kind of started to feel unnecessary. Like, why are we doing this? Let’s just call them what they are: HBO shows.”

“Why are you doing this?” is definitely a question many people asked during the initial shift from HBO to Max. But we guess, better late than never. The “HBO Shows” label will officially come into play during 2025. While we can clearly define an “HBO Show,” there’s no exact word yet of what a “Max Show” is if it’s not basically all the projects we were expecting from Max. It seems there is some sort of financial delineation at play, but little else is mentioned with clarity. Initially, The Penguin and Dune: Prophecy remained under the Max branding, as they were slated to release in 2024. Bloys even noted “We will start in 2025, although ‘The Penguin’ would be an obvious fit as an HBO Original. Unfortunately, the process of licensing it internationally has already started.”

But since then, circumstances have changed, and The Penguin and Dune: Prophecy will indeed come under the HBO Original umbrella and air on HBO as well as on Max.

Additionally of note, any series branded as “HBO shows” will now run on linear network TV in addition to streaming on Max. That will likely mean a larger volume of programming in 2025. It sounds like Thursdays and Sundays will be original series nights for the HBO channel.

Bloys sums it up by saying, “For a show that feels big and cinematic, they already are going to make the assumption that it feels like an HBO show… This is just leaning into that.” That’s true, but it begs the question, why did anyone lean out of it in the first place? It will also be interesting to see what this reversion back to HBO will mean for Max as a streamer. Might we even dare to suggest it could one day be called… HBO Max.

Originally published on June 25, 2024.

The post Long Live HBO! The HBO Brand Returns From Its Max-Imposed Exile appeared first on Nerdist.

Star Wars: The Acolyte‘s Qimir, played by Manny Jacinto, has electrified fans of the series. While there are a lot of mysteries surrounding Qimir, one question fans have had since before we even knew he was the masked “Stranger” is whether The Acolyte‘s villain is truly a Sith Lord. In The Acolyte‘s fifth episode, Qimir himself seems to broach the topic of whether he is or isn’t a Sith. He shares, “I have no name. But a Jedi like you might call me… Sith.” But, of course, there’s slight trickery of the tongue happening in that phrase, as Qimir does not fully say he is a Sith. Only that, from a Jedi perspective, he might be seen as one. To get more concrete answers on the topic, Nerdist brought up the Qimir-Sith debate to The Acolyte‘s showrunner, Lesyle Headland. Here’s what she had to say.

When asked, “Will we learn whether Qimir is truly a Sith or not in the season finale?” Headland shared that although we may not get specific answers to the Sith question, we will see hints that lead us in one direction or another. She offers:

What I will say is you don’t hear it from his mouth, but there are a couple small things that happen that intimate the answer to that question.

Very interesting. It’s too early to say whether these small happenings intimate the answer is “Yes, Qimir is a Sith” or the contrary respose. But we know for sure that Qimir fans will be watching his every move with eagle eyes. When these small hints do happen on The Acolyte, we bet they won’t go unnoticed for very long. Right now, we lean toward Qimir not really being a Sith. To us, he doesn’t seem very much like a joiner. It feels like he’d rather not be involved with the Jedi, the Sith, or anyone else. What Qimir wants is freedom. But we’ll have to wait to for The Acolyte‘s season finale to get closer to the truth of the character.

The post Is Qimir a Sith Lord on THE ACOLYTE? Showrunner Leslye Headland Hints We Will Soon Know appeared first on Nerdist.

One of the biggest mysteries in Star Wars: The Acolyte is how exactly its main characters, Mae and Osha, were born. We’ve recieved hints about the twins’ origins throughout the series, coming to understand that their mothers belonged to a cult of Force witches and that the Star Wars concept of a vergence in the Force, a concentration of Force energy around a person or place, is somehow involved. However, just how exactly Mae and Osha were created on The Acolyte is a question that we can’t answer in detail… yet. The Acolyte‘s showrunner Lesyle Headland promises the season one finale of the Star Wars series will give us all the answers we seek about Mae and Osha’s origins.

Here’s what Headland had to say to Nerdist about answering one of The Acolyte‘s biggest questions about Mae, Osha, and their creation before season’s-end. When we echoed Master Sol’s question to her (“The twins, where did they come from? How were they created?”), she responded, “Well…uh…tune in next week. Also subscribe to Disney+.” But added more specifically:

Tune in next week. Tune in next week. We definitely aren’t going to leave you hanging. You do a show like this, you take a lot of risks, you don’t really save a lot of those types of questions for season two. There are a lot of things you do save for a season two, but that kind of question is not one of them.

And there we have it. The Acolyte‘s season finale will reveal exactly how the twins were born. So if you have theories about Mae and Osha’s origins on The Acolyte, you’d better get them out into the world now. It sounds like there won’t be any loose ends concerning the twins’ creations after the next episode of The Acolyte airs.

Honestly, we’re excited to know that The Acolyte will reveal everything we need to know about how Mae and Osha came to be born before the ending of the first season. The key to a good mystery is to build it just enough and then deliver a satisfying explanation for it.

When Does The Acolyte Season One Finale Release?

The Acolyte‘s finale will air on July 16 at 6 pm PT/9 pm ET. The last episode of the Star Wars series will stream on Disney+.

The post How Were Mae and Osha Born? THE ACOLYTE Showrunner Promises Finale Answers About Twins’ Origins appeared first on Nerdist.

Just before season one of X-Men ’97 aired, Marvel announced that it had parted ways with Head Writer Beau DeMayo. While the circumstances of that firing remain vague, we have since learned that DeMayo wrote a substantial amount of X-Men ’97 season two, which Marvel Studios has noted will be honored in the animated series’ second season. But when it comes to X-Men ’97 season three, a new writer has reportedly been hired. Deadline reveals that Matthew Chauncey will replace Beau DeMayo in the role of X-Men ’97 writer for the third chapter of the show.

As writer, Chauncey will work with X-Men ’97’s director, Jake Castorena, who has been with the project since the beginning. Chauncey has written for Disney+’s Marvel series What If…? and also worked on the Ms. Marvel live-action series. We will have to wait and see what his vision is for X-Men ’97 season three. The third season of the show is currently in development.

The post Matthew Chauncey Joins X-MEN ’97 Season 3 as Writer After Beau DeMayo Exit appeared first on Nerdist.

In a shocking twist, X-Men ’97 Head Writer Beau DeMayo was fired by Marvel just eight days before the series’ first episodes aired. However, since Beau DeMayo’s firing, X-Men ’97 achieved massive popularity. Where does that leave the series and its writer? DeMayo has now clarified how he’ll be involved in X-Men ’97 season two after his firing.

X-Men ’97 Creator Beau DeMayo Has Been Fired By Marvel

In a shocking turn of events, X-Men ’97‘s creator and head writer Beau DeMayo has been fired by Marvel Studios, reports The Hollywood Reporter. The publication notes that “Marvel and DeMayo suddenly parted ways. His company email was deactivated and cast and crew were informed he was no longer on the project.” DeMayo’s Instagram was deactivated but has since returned. No reason for the firing has been released.

How Will Beau DeMayo Be Involved in X-Men ’97 Season 2?

DeMayo recently took to Twitter to clarify how he would be involved in season two of X-Men ’97 after his initial firing.

DeMayo shares of his work on season two of X-Men ’97 in the past and future, “I did write a lot of season 2. However, unlike Season 1, I will not be heavily involved or leading production, cast records, design, editorial, post, music, etc., nor doing any production rewrites as it relates to the creative vision of the show.” DeMayo adds “This is why I’ve said I can’t really speak to Season 2. But, looking forward to seeing the final product with you all whenever it airs. I have high hopes.”

Marvel Studios Head of Streaming, Television, and Animation Addresses Exit

Marvel Studios’ Brad Winderbaum, head of streaming, television, and animation, also discussed Beau DeMayo’s exit from X-Men ’97 and its impact on the future of the series. He revealed that X-Men ’97 “will have a new head writer for season 3.” But Winderbaum additionally shared, “We are honoring Beau DeMayo’s ideas for the second season.”

Winderbaum notes he can’t discuss details but “can say that Beau had real respect and passion for these characters and wrote what I think are excellent scripts that the rest of the team were able to draw inspiration from [to] build this amazing show that’s on screen.”

As to where X-Men ’97 is now, Winderbaum reveals, “I’ve now seen versions of animatics for the entire second season. Obviously, when you’re in that stage, there’s a lot of work to do. It’s editorial, but it’s also still iterative because there’s still story to be worked out when you put it on its feet in that way. We’re going to start development on the third season very soon. And, yeah, we’re trying to figure out who is going to be that voice on the page, but luckily—that’s going to come as a surprise—there’s many talented X-Men fans, excellent writers.”

Who Will Write X-Men ’97 Season 3?

Reportedly, replacing Beau DeMayo on X-Men ’97 season three will be Matthew Chauncey. There is no word yet on what the season will look like or what will feature in its plot.

Originally published on May 17, 2024.

The post X-MEN ’97 Creator Beau DeMayo Fired By Marvel, Clarifies Season 2 Involvement appeared first on Nerdist.

The Legend of Vox Machina has now delighted Critters for two glorious seasons. And happily, season three of the animated series will be heading to our screens soon. But that’s not all there is to get excited about. The Legend of Vox Machina is based on Critical Role‘s first roleplaying campaign, of course. And if there’s one thing that Dungeons & Dragons fans love, it’s getting to take a closer look at the details and nuances of a world. Roll for perception, please! The Legend of Vox Machina is getting a gorgeous “making of” art book, The Art of The Legend of Vox Machina. Anyone who has so much as glimpsed the show knows that this art-filled tome will be a pleasing treat for the eyes (and minds) of fans everywhere.

You can take a look at the cover art of The Art of The Legend of Vox Machina below.

This New The Legend of Vox Machina Art Book Celebrates the Creation of the Series

Dark Horse Books and Amazon MGM Studios are bringing The Art of The Legend of Vox Machina to life. This hardcover art book will delve deep into the making of seasons one and two of the animated show. For fans who want to truly immerse themselves in the world, it’s a must-have. The Art of The Legend of Vox Machina will take fans behind the scenes of the incredible animated television series and offer “never-before-seen concept art and commentary on the show’s creation.” This art book offers a brand-new way to explore Exandria and learn more about Vex’ahlia, Vax’ilda, Keyleth, Percy de Rolo, Scanlan Shorthalt, Pike Trickfoot, and Grog Strongjaw. We bet this The Legend of Vox Machina art book holds some tantalizing trivia about your favorite character in its pages.

The Art of the Legend of Vox Machina is written by Meredith Kecskemety (The Legend of Vox Machina, Midnight Gospel) and includes the work of various interior artists from Titmouse Animation. Additionally, The Art of the Legend of Vox Machina features cover art originally sketched by Sung Jin Ahn, characters by Phil Bourassa, background by Howard Chen, and colors by Arthur Loftis.

The Art of The Legend of Vox Machina Deluxe Edition Celebrates Shaun Gilmore

For the ultimate Critter, though, Dark Horse Books and Amazon MGM Studios have a special item waiting in their merchant shop. They’d like to invite you to stop by Gilmore’s Glorious Goods for something truly sumptuous. The Art of The Legend of Vox Machina will also be available in a deluxe edition, perfect for the member of your party with exceptionally discerning tastes.

The deluxe edition will have packaging inspired by Matthew Mercer’s fan-favorite NPC, Shaun Gilmore. It will feature a purple and gold color scheme with holographic foiling and ribbing on the spine. All of this will come together to make it feel like a fantasy tome plucked right from the world of The Legend of Vox Machina. The deluxe edition will also include a slipcase, a ribbon bookmark, and a lithograph print. Truly, The Art of The Legend of Vox Machina Deluxe Edition will be a glorious addition to any superfan’s collection.

You can check out concept art for the deluxe edition of The Art of The Legend of Vox Machina above.

The Art of The Legend of Vox Machina Release Date, Price, and Other Details

For those who are already preparing a space for The Art of The Legend of Vox Machina on their bookshelves, here’s some information you’ll want to know about the book and its release. Firstly, The Art of The Legend of Vox Machina and its deluxe edition will release in bookstores on December 10, 2024, and in comic shops on December 11, 2024. The art book is now available to pre-order at Amazon, Barnes & Noble, TFAW, and your local comic shop.

The Art of The Legend of Vox Machina will cost $49.99. Meanwhile, The Art of The Legend of Vox Machina Deluxe Edition will cost $99.99. Both versions of the book will be printed in hardcover and contain 192 pages. The dimensions of the book are 9.5×13”.

For more announcements and updates on The Art of The Legend of Vox Machina and other exciting titles, be sure to follow Dark Horse Comics on social media and check out its website, www.darkhorse.com.

And, of course, be sure to tune in when season three of The Legend of Vox Machina premieres on Prime Video on October 3.

The post THE ART OF THE LEGEND OF VOX MACHINA Book Gives Fans a Gorgeous Inside Look at the Series’ Creation appeared first on Nerdist.

Things are in a bit of disarray on both sides of the Targaryen civil war after House of the Dragon season two, episode four. And the trailer for House of the Dragon season two, episode five, highlights many of the reasons why. So if you haven’t seen the latest episode of the series, look away. And definitely don’t hit play on House of the Dragon season two, episode five’s trailer. War has arrived in earnest now, and it takes many shapes. But which of these paths will bring victory? We’ll just have to wait and see.

You can watch the full trailer for House of the Dragon season two, episode five, below.

The Battle at Rook’s Rest shook the world of House of the Dragon. On Rhaenyra’s side of things, a dragon and valuable ally was lost, as Rhaenys Targaryen and her dragon Meleys, were killed in the skirmish, taken out by Aegon Targaryen and his dragon Vhagar. Of course, the surprise appearance of King Aegon didn’t end well for the Greens either. Now, the King appears to be struggling for his life, even as he is lauded as a dragon-killing hero in the trailer for House of the Dragon season two, episode five.

Then, of course, the House of the Dragon trailer reveals more of Daemon who is continuing his eerie stay at Harrenhal and seemingly becoming obsessed with the idea of his own potential claim to the throne anew. That’s not good news for any side of the war.

Even House of the Dragon‘s dastardly Crison Cole admits in the episode five trailer that “what we must do now is terrible.” What could make even the worst character ever murmur those words? We’ll find out when House of the Dragon season two, episode five, airs on July 13 at 9 PM on HBO and Max. You can check out more details about House of the Dragon season two’s full release schedule here. In the meanwhile, we’ll be pondering just how many ways there are to win a war.

As this trailer suggests, we bet none of them will end well on House of the Dragon.

The post HOUSE OF THE DRAGON Season 2, Episode 5 Trailer Reveals Gruesome Fates and War’s Consequences appeared first on Nerdist.

Agatha is that witch in a brand new teaser trailer for Agatha All Along. The upcoming Marvel Studios series is promising many laughs but also quite a bit of body horror in its episodes. We’re definitely excited to see this coven of witches come together and to learn more about where exactly the “legendary Witches’ Road” will lead us. The Disney+ series also confirmed its release date information, including Agatha All Along‘s release timing, number of premiere episodes, and more.

In Agatha All Along‘s new trailer, we learn a few important things. Firstly, that the title of this Agatha Harkness series likely won’t be changing again. What a relief. But we also meet some of the other witches who will join Agatha in the MCU, and they all seem pretty neat to us. Agatha All Along‘s coven may not be right-minded, but they sure seem like they’re fun at parties. Aubrey Plaza, of course, brings her trademark energy everywhere she goes.

Agatha All Along has also received a synopsis in addition to its new trailer. The plot description shares:

The series focuses on Kathryn Hahn’s character, Agatha Harkness, from the acclaimed Marvel Studios’ series “WandaVision,” as she sets off on a dangerous, mysterious adventure filled with trials and tribulations. Showrunner Jac Schaeffer, who was the creative force behind “WandaVision,” directs the pilot episode.

In “Agatha All Along,” the infamous Agatha Harkness finds herself down and out of power after a suspicious goth Teen helps break her free from a distorted spell. Her interest is piqued when he begs her to take him on the legendary Witches’ Road, a magical gauntlet of trials that, if survived, rewards a witch with what they’re missing. Together, Agatha and this mysterious Teen pull together a desperate coven, and set off down, down, down The Road…

We do love a goth Teen TM. And we can’t wait to see more of Agatha Harkness. We’re especially curious how she fits into the rest of the MCU at this point in the story. Will we learn anything more about Wanda Maximoff’s fate through the series? Probably not, but you never know…

In addition to Kathryn Hahn, who returns as Agatha, Agatha All Along stars Joe Locke, Sasheer Zamata, Ali Ahn, Maria Dizzia, Paul Adelstein, Miles Gutierrez-Riley, Okwui Okpokwasili, with Debra Jo Rupp, with Patti LuPone, and Aubrey Plaza. You can see the cast in action in the Agtha All Along trailer above.

Agatha All Along‘s Release Date Information: Release Time, Premiere Episodes, and More

For those who’d like to know when to tune in to catch Agatha All Along, here’s the latest in release information. Marvel Studios reveals that Agatha All Along will release on September 18 at 6:00 p.m. PT/9:00 p.m. ET. The series will premiere with its first two episodes, it will stream exclusively on Disney+.

This is a developing story.

The post AGATHA ALL ALONG Shares Witchy New Teaser Trailer and Release Date Information appeared first on Nerdist.

The Acolyte has pulled no punches when it comes to delivering character deaths and killing fascinating figures. We were stunned when Wookiee Jedi Master Kelnacca was killed in episode four of the Star Wars series before we even got to see him on-screen in the present day. And this was after the episode one death of Jedi Master Indara. But it turns out Star Wars: The Acolyte was only picking up its killing steam. Episode five of the series delivered the most intense killing yet. In The Acolyte‘s fifth chapter, fans encountered a Star Wars death that really hurt.

The Death of Yord on The Acolyte Is the Most Shocking One Yet

Oh, Yord, say it isn’t so. Yord’s death on The Acolyte truly shocked us. The straight-laced Jedi Knight, played by Charlie Barnett, was hands-down a fan-favorite character. After only a handful of episodes, Yord Fandar amassed a fan-following called the “Yord Horde” (see: #YordHorde on Twitter), which is a genius name. And we know that not just any character could achieve such devotion. Lucasfilm even sent out Yord Horde stickers to loyal Yordists, sorry Yord Horde-ists, and got Barnett in on the act in the episode before his death! (Which seems cruel and unusual.)

Although he seemed to lack a sense of humor on principle, Yord was hilarious in his fussy and persnickety ways. And he won hearts and minds from the moment fans saw him steaming his robes to perfection. A Jedi does need pressed robes, of course, or how will the world ever respect them? Despite his love of rules and adherence to the letter of the law, Yord’s heart was truly in the right place. Though Yord probably would approve of his The Acolyte death as an honorable end befitting a Jedi Knight, few would likely share his sentiments.

Yord’s death truly shocked us to the core.

How Did Yord Die on The Acolyte?

It felt like Yord’s death was mercilessly teased throughout The Acolyte‘s fifth episode before coming to pass. On Khofar, the dark Sith Lord Master, who we now know to be Qimir, attacked the assembled group of Jedi. Using his Force powers, lightsaber skills, and cortosis armor, Qimir handily hacked and slashed his way through the group. Qimir got a jab into Yord, but it was only a slash to his leg. For a moment, Yord fans let out a sigh of relief as Qimir disappeared to chase after Osha, thinking he might be safe from death after this fakeout. Especially when Sol arrived on the scene to aid them both and fight Qimir.

Osha and Yord headed to safety at Sol’s command, but although Sol had ordered Yord away with Osha and he was determined to stick to his Jedi Master’s command, his heart finally won out over his mind. Osha and Yord headed back to find Sol and Qimir, and thus sealed Yord’s (however noble) fate on The Acolyte.

Yord valiantly entered the fray again, saving Mae from her fate and distracting Qimir. But alas, the evil Sith Master was too much for him. Qimir snapped Yord’s neck, and thus, the beloved Yord was dead on The Acolyte.

Actor Charlie Barnett Shares a Message with the Yord Horde Addressing His The Acolyte Death

As Yord sails off into the sunset, his actor Charlie Barnett shares a message with all the mourning Yord Horde out there. Barnett thanks his fans for their love, kindness, appreciation, and joy. He notes the Yords of the world are people who are just “trying to do what’s best” and welcomes the Yord Horde’s patience and understanding for that kind of a character and person. Also, he’s sorry that he/Yord are dead on The Acolyte. 🙁

Is There a Chance Yord Could Come to Life, and His Star Wars Death Could Be Reversed?

Of course, Yord’s death makes fans ask the obvious next question. Is there a way Yord’s death can be reversed and Yord could return to life on Star Wars? Well, we never say never. Star Wars does have a history of mysterious resurrections and glorious reappearances. But, it seems like most likely, no. Yord is a human character, and his neck was snapped. That feels pretty final.

Barnett even notes of Yord’s death, “Leslye [Headland] was very up front from the very get-go. No one ever wants to be cut out of a show, but when you know that going into it, performance-wise, it gave me a bookend and it gave me a route to plan out and play a little more of the rollercoaster role, showing the ups and downs and showing how he ends up getting into this position. When you’re playing a character that you know is going to die, it’s a little more fun. If it’s a surprise to you and your job is gone next week, it sucks, but when you know what you’re walking into, you get to have a little more control over it. And I tried to find the lemonade through the lemons.”

Additionally, he shares of Yord’s final minutes, “When Osha convinces me that Jecki is in danger, I know my duty is to bring this civilian up to the ship and get out of here as quickly as possible, but my heart breaks, and it’s the first time my compassion supersedes. And all the responsibility of what you must live up to goes out the window. And yes, sadly, he doesn’t survive and win off of that kind of energy. I think it’s kind of the fault of not living in that place for more of his life. He was too confined, and you see his demise from it. These are all the reasonings why he loses so much of what he knows he’s good at, which is fighting, because his attachments and his emotional connection speak louder in that moment.”

In episode six of The Acolyte, we more or see confirmation that Yord is really dead. And although Yord’s death does indeed seem like it will hold, stranger things have happened on Star Wars. In the meanwhile, we know death won’t stop the Yord Horde’s true love from shining through. Long live, Yord!

Originally published on June 27, 2024.

The post Yord’s Death on THE ACOLYTE Really Hurt STAR WARS Fans appeared first on Nerdist.

June has ended, but that doesn’t mean Pride Month has to come to a halt. Pride Month can be any month is the real truth. To help you continue the celebrations, we’re sharing two gorgeous graphic novels from Legendary Comics that celebrate the LGBTQ+ community inside and out. These graphic novels, which are gorgeous to look at and enchanting to read, are both from LGBTQ+ authors and feature marvelously queer characters. We could not feel more excited about that. (These LGBTQ+ graphic novels also put witches and the supernatural in the spotlight, which are two things that queer people love and feel represented by, as we’ve written about on Nerdist before.) We’re proud to recommend The Witches of Silverlake: Volume One and The Science of Ghosts—both of which are available now!

The Witches of Silverlake: Volume One, Written by Simon Curtis and Illustrated by Stephanie Son

 “It’s always tough being the new kid in the coven.” That’s the tagline for The Witches of Silverlake: Volume One. And already we’re hooked because ain’t that the truth? The Witches of Silverlake follows the journey of Elliot at Saint John the Baptist Academy as he and his new coven of queer witches accidentally unleash a bloodthirsty demon that terrorizes their school. Oops! This might not sound relatable to you, but if you’re queer, you know it happens all the time. The Witches of Silverlake sounds like an excellent adventure to embark upon.

Written by Simon Curtis and illustrated by Stephanie Son, the graphic novel delves into the dark side and danger of magic. The Witches of Silverlake is available for purchase on Amazon, Barnes & Noble, and more.

You can read the full synopsis for The Witches of Silverlake: Volume One below:

Elliot has had a rough year. His dad died, he had to move across the country, and now he’s about to start high school at LA’s prestigious Saint John the Baptist Academy, where his mom has accepted the position of Vice Principal. He’s quickly taken in by the school’s outcasts: the scholarship kids; the queer kids; and the ones who just don’t really fit in with the glossy trust fund babies of SJTBA. They immediately let him in on their little secret…they are witches. Elliot joins them in their world among the crystal stores and occult shops of Silverlake, but just as he feels he has finally found a sense of family with his new coven, a full moon initiation ceremony goes awry and unleashes a demon with a thirst for SJTBA student and faculty blood, whose gruesome killing spree reveals that forces much bigger and darker than their worst nightmares have had their sights set on Elliot all along…With the fun and games of playing with crystals and candles over, the coven now realize that magic is powerful, real, and that it might be more dangerous than they’d ever imagined.

The Science of Ghosts by Lilah Sturges, Illustrated by El Garing, with Contributions by Alitha Martinez

In The Science of Ghosts, written by Lilah Sturges, “trans forensic parapsychologist Jo Ravenna investigates a series of murders intertwined with ghostly echoes, uncovering unsettling truths with serious consequences for her and her friends’ lives.” Illustrated by El Garing, Illustrated by El Garing, with contributions by Alitha Martinez, this horror story wonderfully explores a life post-transition. This novel’s tagline is, “She’ll take ghosts over solving her own problems any day.” Again, if you’re a queer person, this is highly relatable content. We can’t wait to be haunted by this LGBTQ+ graphic novel in the best way.

If that’s not enough to intrigue you, below are the first five pages of The Science of Ghosts for your reading pleasure. Fair warning: You won’t be able to get them out of your head. The Science of Ghosts can be purchased on Amazon, Barnes & Noble, and more.

The full synopsis for The Science of Ghosts is below:

In “The Science of Ghosts,” Joy Ravenna, a transgender parapsychologist, navigates the mysteries of the afterlife while confronting the challenges of her past and present. Joy’s first post-transition relationship, a hostile ex-wife, and long-forgotten murder clues test her resilience at every turn. For Joy, dealing with the living is far more daunting than working with ghosts. This gripping 160-page graphic novel is written by Lilah Sturges, Illustrated by El Garing, with contributions by Alitha Martinez and is published by Legendary Comics.

Keep Your Pride Going by Supporting LGBTQ+ Creators and Their Work

As mentioned, both these graphic novels are wonderfully queer, super beautiful, and just downright excellent reads. Make sure to add them to your reading list today and keep the love for queer creators and their queer work going all year long.

Editor’s Note: Nerdist is a subsidiary of Legendary Digital Networks.

The post Check Out These Gorgeous LGBTQ+ Graphic Novels and Keep Pride Month Going Past June appeared first on Nerdist.

We officially have some updates about a couple highly-anticipated animated series from Marvel Studios, as well as an exciting new announcement to enjoy. At a preview screening for What If…? season two, Marvel also shared news about its other upcoming animated properties. Firstly, an already-announced Disney+ series Your Friendly Neighborhood Spider-Man is now officially set to release in 2024. Additionally, Marvel revealed a new Black Panther animated series for its line-up titled Eyes of Wakanda.

Your Friendly Neighborhood Spider-Man is a show that was once known as Spider-Man: Freshman Year. Although Tom Holland won’t voice this Marvel Studios Spider-Man, Charlie Cox will return to give life to Matthew Murdock/Daredevil. This series will follow Peter Parker on his adventures before his time in the MCU and delve into his life as, well, a friendly neighborhood Spider-Man. We look forward to seeing it sooner rather than later.

Additionally, Marvel Studios revealed a brand new animated Black Panther series. According to IGN, Eyes of Wakanda will focus “on warriors from Wakanda’s past traveling the world to recover dangerous vibranium artifacts.” The publication notes that the official description shares, “Throughout Wakandan history, brave warriors have been tasked to travel the world retrieving dangerous vibranium artifacts. This is their story.”

Most recently, Marvel Studio’s Head of Television Brad Winderbaum gave an update on the series to Marvel’s Official Podcast, noting, “Eyes of Wakanda, more than any other show we’re doing in animation, ties directly into the MCU. This is a story about Wakandan history. It’s produced by Ryan Coogler and directed by Todd Harris who is one of our longtime storyboard artists who I first met when he designed the Hulk vs. Thor fight in Ragnarok.” Additionally, Winderbaum added, “It’s an awesome show. The action is insane and the storytelling is fantastic. It’s both about the history of Wakanda, but also expands into the greater MCU at different time periods. If you’re a fan of the movies, I think this show is going to be a real treat.”

Please note the above image is from season one of What If…? and not from the new Black Panther show. Marvel Studios has not yet shared any further cast, images, or plot details about Eyes of Wakanda. But we are super excited already. It sounds like it will be one epic adventure series.

Originally published on December 12, 2023.

The post Marvel Studios Reveals Updates on New BLACK PANTHER Animated Series, Confirms 2024 Release for SPIDER-MAN Series appeared first on Nerdist.

House of the Dragon season two has already seen more than its fair share of intense character deaths. But sometimes, the threat of death is worse than an actual ending. In a series like House of the Dragon, there are moments when characters can literally see their fates before them but can’t escape their ends. We’ve already experienced a few terrible visions that have come true. In House of the Dragon season two, episode three, fans received a chilling prophecy of death for one of the series’ main characters. But who receives this whisper of doom, and what exactly does it mean? Here’s a spoiler-lite version of what we can expect.

House of the Dragon Season 2 Foreshadows Daemon Targaryen’s Death

After Daemon’s rash and miscalculated efforts to kill Aemond Targaryen end with the death of Prince Jaehaerys instead, he and Rhaenyra exchange heated words. One the heels of their fight, Daemon flies off to Harrenhal in a huff, on a mission to recruit the Riverlands to the Blacks’ cause. Although he comes in the name of Rhaenyra, of course, Dameon’s ambitions and bids for his own power absolutely remain in play.

While there, Daemon falls into an eerie dream that sees the return of young Rhaenyra and features the dead prince Jaehaerys. Daemon Targaryen’s House of the Dragon dream could be seen as a manifestation of his guilt over the needless death his behavior caused, but it also feels deeply like a prophetic sort of vision. When he awakes, he finds himself standing beside Harrenhal’s weirwood tree. It’s a scene out of a gothic horror. Whenever a weirwood tree and its carved faces are around, Game of Thrones fans know supernatural experiences are close at hand. The trees, after all, are sacred to those who follow the old gods, and always bring a sense of the uncanny.

Of course, it doesn’t help that a mysterious new House of the Dragon character appears from the rain, stares Daemon Targaryen right in the eye, and foretells his death.

Who Told Daemon, “You Will Die in this Place?”—Meet Alys Rivers

But who exactly is it that gives Daemon this prophecy of death on House of the Dragon? Why, it’s Alys Rivers who ominously told Daemon, “You will die in this place.” That sentiment naturally begs the follow-up of, who is Alys Rivers? Episode three of House of the Dragon season two gives her an ominous introduction and not much else. But Alys Rivers is a complicated character with an important role to play. We barely meet Alys in this episode, so we don’t want to spoil too much about her, but here’s what we can share.

Alys Rivers’ last name tells us she’s a bastard born in the Riverlands. And in broad stokes, Alys Rivers could be considered a witch. She’s a healer with, as we see, prophetic abilities. Rivers’ actress Gayle Rankin shared a bit more about Alys noting. “On House of the Dragon, we have dragons, obviously, but she’s the first entry point to that world of magic… I’m always fascinated by and drawn to female characters who are tossed around by society and culture. I really tried personally to make her my own and ground her in reality, because you can stereotype someone who’s a healer or a sorcerer or a witch or any of the above.”

Rankin adds, “This person can tell the future, basically… She’s someone who has all of this power, who’s been alive for potentially 400 years. How do we make her a person with a beating heart and wants and desires? Rankin hints that in addition to telling Daemon Targaryen of his death, Alys Rivers will force him to look at his past and all its demons. “She’s going to hold a lot of power for the men inside of this story, especially Daemon, which I think is a really interesting slow burn…What’s interesting is, what does Alys want from Daemon and vice versa?… What are they learning from each other? There’s clearly a match happening here.” We hope Daemon learns something more than just that he’s slated for death. But we’ll have to wait and see to find out.

Will Daemon Targaryen Definitely Die on House of the Dragon?

So now, the big question. Just because Aly Rivers told Daemon he will die, is that death set in stone on House of the Dragon? House of the Dragon is, of course, based on George R.R. Martin’s Game of Thrones book, Fire & Blood. And so, those interested in an immediate possible answer can read-up on Daemon’s fate in the story right now. That said, Fire & Blood is a history, a recounting from sources that were not present at the time. Other characters’ fates, such as Laenor Velaryon’s, have changed from their previously canonical state.

That said, Alys Rivers and Daemon Targaryen were standing next to a weirwood tree when Alys intoned that Daemon intoned her prophecies of his death. It is both believed that some can look through the eyes of a weirwood to see the past and the future and that one cannot lie in the presence of the tree. Of course, prophecies are funny things. Even death can take on many meanings in a prophetic tongue.

While we now have to worry about Daemon Targaryen’s death on House of the Dragon, the truth is, no character is ever really safe. A prophecy of doom certainly doesn’t help, but it doesn’t mean he’s keeling over immediately, either. And, you never know, Daemon could meet a normal death in “this place”… sure he could.

The post HOUSE OF THE DRAGON Season 2 Ominously Foreshadows a Main Character’s Death  appeared first on Nerdist.

Hannibal season four. It’s on everyone’s minds. We’ve received some tantalizing hints over the years about what a Hannibal season four might hold if it ever returns to our screens. (A quest Fannibals, fans of Hannibal have been on for nearly a decade.) During Fan Expo Boston’s Hannibal panel, Hugh Dancy and Mads Mikkelsen thought a little bit about what season four of Hannibal might look like. Although, ultimately, the pair didn’t want to speculate too much on its contents, since that part is up to Bryan Fuller, the show’s creator, they seemed to imagine that though some time would pass between Hannibal season three and season four in the show’s reality, that time skip may not be fully aligned to the real time that has passed in our world.

One common refrain about Hannibal season four is that Bryan Fuller’s idea for it means the show could return at any time. Whatever idea Fuller has for Hannibal season four, it is built to encapsulate any amount of years that pass in our reality. But according to Hannibal‘s stars, that doesn’t literally mean that season four will take place a decade (or however long) after Hannibal‘s season three finale.

Mads Mikkelsen shared at Fan Expo Boston’s Hannibal panel, “I think it would be boring to see them a decade later. I’m fine with a couple of years. Obviously, they have to heal after the fall. But… a decade, we’d be missing out on something crucial.” Unless, of course, Hugh Dancy chimes in, “They haven’t been together, right? Unless Will’s been in a hospital.” But Mikkelsen seemed a little dubious about that. “So they landed on different ships?”

Mikkelsen is obviously envisioning Hannibal season four and its possible time skip through the lens of the story. While Dancy is a bit more pragmatic. “It’s nice of Mads to imagine it, but I’m not sure that only two years having passed is very realistic at this point.” But he concedes, “Maybe it was just a rough two years.”

We bet that’s a distinct possiblity. Ultimately, we’ll need Bryan Fuller to chime in on this one. But however long of a time skip happens between Hannibal season three and Hannibal season four, fans of the series will happily accept it. We just need a studio to join us at the table for dinner.

The post Mads Mikkelsen and Hugh Dancy Tease HANNIBAL Season 4 Time Skip and How Long It Would Be appeared first on Nerdist.

For the Hannibal fandom, love is always on the menu. Showrunner Bryan Fuller has previously shared with Nerdist that should season four of Hannibal come to life, the only path for Will Graham and Hannibal Lecter’s intimacy is forward. Fuller even noted that Will and Hannibal would hopefully answer all of Google’s most asked questions about them (Do they kiss? Kill together? Date?) with an affirmative. At Fan Expo Boston’s Hannibal panel, which Nerdist was excited to moderate, Mads Mikkelsen and Hugh Dancy also considered the question. While they might not be as effusively romantic as Fuller in their notions, there’s no doubt there’s love to explore between Will Graham and Hannibal Lecter.

Interestingly enough, in Dancy’s opinion, and this has been a long-standing belief for him, Will Graham knows that Hannibal Lecter is in love with him, but Will Graham doesn’t, at least consciously, imagine himself to be in love with Hannibal at the point of the season three finale. (The last of the series for now.) Still, when asked what it might take for Will Graham to finally fall in love with Hannibal Lecter at Fan Expo Boston, Dancy joked, “Seven seasons?” But hey, he didn’t say never. We choose to interpret that answer as “time.”

Dancy also added at Fan Expo Boston that Will Graham is still firstly wrestling with his own perspectives on the world in Hannibal. He shared, “I think Will’s coming to terms with something within himself primarily.” But, of course, as Fuller has shared, Will Graham might be in a more malleable state should Hannibal season four take place. So perhaps, now that he’s done coming to terms with himself, there might be room to come to terms with his love for Hannibal.

Mikkelsen, meanwhile, jokingly groused on Hannibal’s behalf, “What is wrong with you?” and then proceeded to share some of his perspectives, noting that for Will and Hannibal, “there’s a mutual fascination, and they see each other for who they are. We can equate that love, but primarily, they are cat and mouse, and they keep changing who is the cat and who is the mouse… and, okay, a little in love.” He’ll give us that.

During a different question at the Fan Expo Boston panel, Mikkelsen and Dancy also considered whether their characters would ever engage in time travel to change any of their fates and circumstances in Hannibal. Ultimately, both landed on Will and Hannibal forgoing any kind of shift in their journeys. (Although Will might be tempted on reflex.) Considering everything they’ve been through, that feels as good as saying they’re fated to come together. You can catch some of these Hannigram love questions and answers and more in the highlights video below from the Fan Expo Hannibal panel.

Ultimately, Hannibal season four lives in Bryan Fuller’s brain. And the rest, for now, exists in the hands of fans. Will Hannibal‘s love story continue? It does every single day. And, hopefully, we’ll get to see it on screen soon as well sometime soon.

The post Hugh Dancy and Mads Mikkelsen Talk Hannigram Being in Love at HANNIBAL Fan Expo Boston Panel appeared first on Nerdist.

One of the most important impacts a fictional property can have in this world is to create community. The power of loving the same story, walking in the same fantastical universe, and adventuring with the same characters can truly bring people together in their real lives, forging lasting bonds and deep friendships. As a devoted member of many fandoms, I can safely say that few shows have ever built a community quite as wonderful as the one Hannibal has created. In that vein, it was extra touching for Mads Mikkelsen and Hugh Dancy to celebrate the series at Fan Expo Boston, a convention specially designed to honor all things fandom. And, personally, as a long-time supporter of the series, it was my pleasure to represent Nerdist as moderator of the Hannibal panel.

Fan Expo Boston’s Hannibal panel was truly a magical convergence where off-stage, on-stage, and in the talent seats, a community of fans came together, celebrating the ethos of the convention and of Hannibal. As the saying goes, “It’s beautiful.”

Although Hannibal was canceled nearly nine years ago now, you certainly wouldn’t know it sitting in the panel room, its stars, and a room full of cheering Fannibals hungry to celebrate their favorite show. And happily, much like our love for the show, the fun of this panel doesn’t ever have to end. To ensure all Fannibals, Hannibal fans, and Mads Mikkelsen and Hugh Dancy enthusiasts alike can join in the beauty of what fans have termed the “Hannibal Reunion,” Fan Expo Boston has released a highlight reel of the panel. You can check out the best of the best moments above and make sure to subscribe to Fan Expo’s channel to catch all future panel highlights that might feed your fandom.

From discussing Will and Hannibal’s love story and journey throughout Hannibal to pondering the intricacies of their characters, including what their last meals might be (each other) and what paintings they might eat (a question inspired by the Red Dragon Francis Dolarhyde himself), to sharing some of their on-set memories and experiences, Mads Mikkelsen and Hugh Dancy left Fannibals with a lot to chew on after their Fan Expo Hannibal panel. Some particularly hilarious answers will no doubt live forever in the inside jokes and fond memories of Hannibal fans—and isn’t that what being in fandom is all about?

Of course, fans hope that this stop on the Hannibal reunion tour won’t be its last. But regardless of what the future holds, we know Fannibals will be savoring every bite of this Fan Expo Boston Hannibal panel.

The post Watch as Mads Mikkelsen and Hugh Dancy Bring HANNIBAL New Life at Their Fan Expo Boston Panel appeared first on Nerdist.

If there’s one thing we tune into House of the Dragon for, it is dragons. So far in season two, we’ve seen glimpses of our favorite creatures, but we haven’t seen much dragon action yet. However, that feels like it’s all about to change as the tension between the greens and the blacks slowly bleeds into an all-out war. In episodes two and three of House of the Dragon season two, though, we see one particular dragon flying across our screens, Seasmoke. But which dragon is Seasmoke again, and why is its presence significant? We have some spoiler-lite answers for you.

Seasmoke Appears on the Scene in House of the Dragon

In House of the Dragon season two, episode two, “Rhaenyra the Cruel,” we pause the political machinations and children’s funerals for a moment to enjoy a peaceful scene on the beach. A new character we only just met in this House of the Dragon episode, Addam of Hull, is fishing for food in the ocean when a dragon flies overhead. The casual viewer might not recall which dragon this is exactly. So, for the curious, we’re happy to confirm that the beach-side dragon in House of the Dragon season two, episode two, is Seasmoke, Laenor Velaryon’s dragon.

In episode three of House of the Dragon season two, we again see Seasmoke flying around as Rhaenyra and Mysaria meet on Dragonstone. Mysaria cryptically comments that the dragon might be lonely.

Here’s why this dragon’s presence is significant.

What Happened to Seasmoke and Laenor Velaryon in House of the Dragon Season One?

For those who need a quick House of the Dragon season one refresher, Rhaenyra Targaryen had a husband before she married Daemon. Laenor Velaryon and Rhaenyra were forced into a political marriage while her father, Viserys, was still alive. Neither of them wished to be in the marriage, with Rhaenyra’s heart elsewhere and Laenor being a gay man. Ultimately, Rhaenyra, Laenor, and Daemon conspired to fake Laenor’s death so he could flee to live in freedom and Rhaenyra could marry Daemon.

That seemed like a sound solution for all involved. Of course, at the time, the Targaryens were not engaged in a civil war. So it did not seem so crucially important that Laenor, now on the run, could no longer ride his dragon Seasmoke on House of the Dragon. Laenor, of course, could not take his very conspicuous dragon with him as he headed into hiding. Seasmoke, meanwhile, has been living in the House Velaryon stronghold Driftmark without a rider since Laenor vanished in House of the Dragon season one. In season two, we see the dragon remains there at the current time.

Civil War Makes Dragons Imperative, and That Includes Seasmoke

Of course, now that the greens and the blacks are poised for full-on war, every dragon counts. Previews of House of the Dragon season two tease that dragons fighting dragons will be at the heart of this chapter. With Laenor and Seasmoke, Rhaenyra would have had an additional dragon at her side as she faced Alicent, Aegon, and the rest. And one dragon can make an immense difference. While Seasmoke is present, his rider is not. And, with Laenor missing but not dead, Seasmoke cannot be ridden; at least, that’s what Game of Thrones‘ dragonrider lore seems to imply.

Will House of the Dragon Honor the Dragon Rider Lore of the Books?

In the Game of Thrones universe, a dragon can only have one dragonrider at a time while both still live, and that rider must have Valyrian blood. If House of the Dragon season two abides by these dragon rules, that means that as long as Laenor remains absent, no one else can ride Seasmoke and fully command the dragon in battle.

Of course, HBO’s live-action Game of Thrones has hinted that it might be flexible with the letter of dragonrider lore before. And neither Game of Thrones nor House of the Dragon have fully established how stringently the one-rider-only rule is followed in the live-action universe. After all, Jon Snow rode Daenerys’ dragon. However, it seems likely that House of the Dragon season two will, at least, need to acknowledge its change in canon if the series gives Seasmoke a new rider who isn’t Laenor.

We are going to go ahead and assume that Laenor is not dead. Death would seem a poor fate for someone who the show purposefully kept alive, breaking with the previously known canon. But it doesn’t feel like House of the Dragon is hinting at Laenor’s return to ride Seasmoke, either. Instead, the show teases something else altogether.

Are Addam Hull and Seasmoke Connected on House of the Dragon?

It wasn’t just anyone who saw Seasmoke flying through the clouds; it was Addam of Hull. Those who want a fuller version of spoilers can read the historical accounting found in George R.R. Martin’s Fire & Blood. For now, all we’ll say is it doesn’t feel like a very coincidental scene. And we will share that Hull is the recent surname given to bastards born in the town of Hull, which, like Seasmoke, sits on Driftmark. In episode two of House of the Dragon, Addam additionally feels that Lord Corlys “owes” Addam and his brother Alyn something. Now, why would that be? And could it be a dragon?

All we know for now is that House of the Dragon has established that Seasmoke is lonely without his dragonrider… and he’s restlessly circling… for some reason.

We’ll have to wait for Seasmoke to fly back to us in a future episode of House of the Dragon to say for sure what or who he is looking for.

Originally published on June 24, 2024.

The post Seasmoke Returns in HOUSE OF THE DRAGON Season 2, Episode 2, But Why? appeared first on Nerdist.

At Nerdist, we love a battle-tested friendship. What could be better than deep connections forged in the midst of harrowing danger? There’s nothing like an epic adventure to bring people together. And that’s why we’re thrilled to exclusively reveal the cover of DAW Books’ The Serpent Called Mercy, a Malaysian Chinese-inspired fantasy by debut author Roanne Lau. The underlying, steadfast friendship between the protagonists of The Serpent Called Mercy creates the beating heart of this story. But, in addition to resonant interpersonal dynamics, the fantasy-adventure book also promises no shortage of heart-pounding battles and mysterious (and ferocious) sun-cursed beasts. And we feel like we can see all of this well-represented in The Serpent Called Mercy‘s cover.

You can take a look at it below.

Exclusive Cover Reveal for The Serpent Called Mercy

Okay, isn’t this cover art stunning? We are stunned. The Serpent Called Mercy‘s gorgeous cover is by Rowynn Ellis (they/them) and art directed by Katie Anderson. We absolutely hope we’ll be seeing all these monsters in the story. But both literally and symbolically, we’re obsessed with them already. The elemental energy, the dynamic action, the little hint of adorable friendship in the corner—we feel it all in this cover. The ferociousness, fury, and little brushes of gentleness all come together perfectly to help us understand what awaits readers in The Serpent Called Mercy.

(But seriously, get that little guy his own streaming show, stat. We would follow him until the ends of the earth.)

Likely, this cover will only become more beautiful as fans grow to learn more about its true meaning as they read the book. But we’re honestly thinking of buying a second copy of The Serpent Called Mercy just so we can display this piece in our house.

More About The Serpent Called Mercy

Just in case The Serpent Called Mercy‘s swoon-worthy cover reveal isn’t yet enough to sway you, here’s a little bit more about the book. A release shares that “Fans of the tense, dynamic action and battle-tested friendships like The Witcher and Squid Game will love The Serpent Called Mercy, where a debt-ridden slumdog joins an illegal monster-fighting arena for some fast coin but quickly learns the most dangerous beasts are outside the ring.” Basically, this book strives to answer the question, “What if an epic fantasy with already high stakes met even higher stakes and added heart-wrenching friendship on top?” It sounds guaranteed to have us both sobbing and at the edge of our seats. And we could ask for little more from a book than that. We also just have to say that the home of this novel adaptation should definitely be Netflix. An even fuller synopsis of the book can be found at the end of this article.

Of additional interest to some, Roanne Lau’s novel will feature asexual and neurodivergent representation, which we definitely support and applaud. Both asexuality and neurodivergence deserve more representation in media, and books that feature representative characters should be championed.

Pre-Order The Serpent Called Mercy by Roanne Lau Today

The Serpent Called Mercy releases on December 3rd, 2024. You can pre-order it on Amazon, Barnes & Noble, Books-A-Million, and Bookshops.org. You can also follow Lau on Twitter, @roannelau, and Instagram, @roannelau, for more updates on the story.

The Serpent Called Mercy‘s Full Synopsis

Here is the full synopsis of The Serpent Called Mercy by Roanne Lau:

Lythlet and her only friend Desil are shackled to a life of debt and poverty that she fears they will never escape. Desperate for money, they sign up as conquessors: arena combatants who fight sun-cursed beasts in the seedy underworld of the city.

Match-master Dothilos is initially enamored of Desil’s brawling reputation, but after seeing Lythlet lead the pair to triumph with her quick cunning, he takes her under his wing, scorning Desil. Ambition takes root in Lythlet’s heart as a life of fame and wealth unfolds in her imagination.

But Lythlet isn’t the only one out for coin and glory, and she soon finds herself playing an entirely different game—a game of politics and deception. As the cost of her ambition grows, she will have to decide if sacrificing her honor, and only friendship, is worth the chance to shape her own fortune.

A whirlwind of blood-pounding battles as characters grapple with their choices in the face of wealth and financial security, The Serpent Called Mercy’s heart is the underlying, steadfast friendship between its protagonists.

The post Check Out the Cover for THE SERPENT CALLED MERCY, a Fantasy Book Full of Deadly Adventure and Battle-Tested Friendships appeared first on Nerdist.

Amazon’s new Lord of the Rings series, The Lord of the Rings: The Rings of Power, takes us back to the fantastical realm of Middle-earth. As we dive into the show, we’ll head deeper into this world and explore some corners of it that have never been brought on-screen before. And that means meeting a whole lot of new and exciting creatures from Middle-earth. Alongside the many races that populate the universe live a slew of Tolkien’s coolest creations, some enchanting and some terrifying. Here is every one of Middle-earth’s creatures we’ve met so far in Rings of Power.

The Rings of Power Season 2 Teases Brand New Creatures

The trailer and first-looks for The Rings of Power season two have already started us off the right foot with some brand new creatures to ponder over.

Hill-Trolls

Nothing says evil quite like a troll. In Tolkien’s world, trolls are often monstrous creatures of low intelligence that inhabit Middle-earth. Of course, trolls are often fighting for evil. In The Lord of the Rings‘ world, we have mountain-trolls, cave-trolls, snow-trolls, and, of course, the hill-trolls, creatures that we’ll be seeing in The Rings of Power season two. Last season, Galadriel encountered a snow-troll (which you can read about below) at Forodwaith, so we’ll be interested to see how the two kinds of trolls differ.

An early tease of the season reveals that we’ll specifically meet Damrod the Hill-troll. Showrunner Patrick McKay calls this creature, the “eater of dragon bones.” Incredibly though, he’ll be voiced by Benjamin Walker, who also plays High King Gil-galad. Two very different roles.

Apparently, this hill-troll will join Adar in the growing ranks of darkness that come together as Sauron risees to power. But Damrod’s inspiration may not be what you expect. McKay notes, “[He] was inspired in part by Mike Ehrmantraut in Breaking Bad and Better Call Saul. If you look at the way he moves and his casual sense of strength.” What an incredible crossover moment.

The Undead Barrow-wights

Tolkien’s Barrow-wights are heading to season two of The Rings of Power. These Lord of the Rings creatures were not actually in The Lord of the Rings movies by Peter Jackson but will come to live-action thanks to The Rings of Power. The ghoulish Barrow-wights are ancient heroes who have been reanimated and are now forced to act for evil. The Rings Of Power VFX supervisor Jason Smith share, “It was super-exciting to take on something I hadn’t seen before. We’ve seen undead before, but not like this. We’re doing a little horror movie in Middle-earth.” The Barrow-wights were once people of nobility, “Kings, queens, high-ranking officials,” according to Smith, and shreds of this past appears in their now undead form. Creepy!

Shelob

A behind-the-scenes featurette from The Rings of Power season two introduces us to some spider-like imagery. If we look behind Maxim Baldry in this screenshot, we can see storyboards that clearly reveal a spider. Additionally a second shot seems to show an orc trapped in a web. Could we be seeing the spider-creature Shelob in The Lord of the Rings: The Rings of Power season two? It seems likely

Oozing Shadow Creature

The trailer makes a point of showing us a shadowy, oozing creature that looks like it’s about to transform. Who this goo creature is in The Lord of the Rings‘ world, we’ll have to wait and see.

Sea Monster

The Rings of Power season two trailer also introduces us to a brand new sea monster. Is it a creature from Tolkien lore or just another Lovecraftian horror? More context is necessary.

The Creatures We’ve Seen in Rings of Power

Jump to: Snow Troll // Valinor’s Spirit Birds // The Worm // Wolves (Possibly Werewolves) // Wargs // The Balrog

Snow Troll

In episode one of The Lord of the Rings: The Rings of Power, Galadriel pushes her company of elves to the far reaches of northern Middle-earth. The viewers are along for the ride as the elves enter the chilly arms of Forodwaith, the Northernmost Waste, in search of a stronghold of orcs and Sauron. While the orcs have long vanished, as has their dark lord, the evil in the stronghold remains. The only thing that flourishes there is a Snow Troll.

We don’t get to learn too much about this foul The Rings of Power creature. But we know the troll contains tough stuff because no light reaches this area of Middle-earth… And certainly very little living. The snow troll viciously attacks the elves, although, to be fair, it probably wasn’t expecting visitors. But Galadriel dispatches it before it can do much harm.

Snow-trolls are mentioned once in Tolkien’s work, a reference in The Lord of the Rings‘ Appendix A. But the denizen of Middle-earth has been brought to life in video games a couple of times, and now in The Rings of Power. With ill-omens growing and Sauron’s sigils appearing around every corner, we may not have seen the last of the snow troll.

Valinor’s Spirit Birds

Of course, Middle-earth and the rest of Tolkien’s world is also a place of magic and great beauty. Thus, some of its creatures have to fill us with joy. And we get a taste of this wonder as The Rings of Power reveals to us Valinor, the elven homeland. Earlier in the episode, Elrond describes the journey into Valinor. He notes, “When you cross over, you hear a song, one whose memory we all carry, and you are immersed in a light more intoxicating than any sensation in all of Middle-earth.” And this is exactly what we see before us. But what Elrond doesn’t mention are some of the most beautiful creatures we see in The Rings of Power.

As Galadriel and the rest of the elves prepare to cross over, a flock of glorious sea birds fills the air. These birds appear to come from Manwë, who represents a kind of chief god in Middle-earth’s mythology. In The Silmarillion, we learn that “all birds are dear” to Manwë. So it makes sense he welcomes the elves back home with a flock.

The Worm (Sea Serpent)

Another new location that The Rings of Power introduces us to is the Sundering Seas. These waters lay west of Middle-earth, and elves must cross them in order to reach Valinor (they depart from the Grey Havens). Of course, like any other ocean, Middle-earth’s seas contain creatures lurking in the deep that you’d probably rather not meet.

Although Galadriel is at peace with her decision not to journey to Valinor, she finds herself stranded in monster-filled waters. A sea serpent, known in The Rings of Power as “The Worm,” slithers through the Sundering Seas, wreaking havoc. Galadriel meets a group of people whose ship this Rings of Power creature destroyed, and she nearly ends up in the belly of the beast herself.

Although the Worm seems to attack indiscriminately, we suspect the Middle-earth monster may be under the sway of Sauron.

Wolves (Possibly Werewolves)

Wolves are on the prowl in this Lord of the Rings series. But Middle-earth’s wolves may not be ordinary creatures in The Rings of Power. Nori Brandyfoot and a group of other Harfoots almost meet one of these wild beings in a berry field, but luckily they spy a warning track. The track is massive, though, and when we see the wolf… It feels like something greater is at work.

We get the same feeling when the wolves attack the Harfoots as they migrate through an eerie forest. There are a few different wolf-like creatures in The Lord of the Rings‘ world, including werewolves and wargs. In Middle-earth’s lore, werewolves are wolves Sauron bred for evil. In each wolf, Sauron imprisoned an evil spirit creating a new kind of creature. Now that we’ve met a warg, though, we know this wolf is something else. So we’re back to betting on this The Rings of Power being a werewolf.

Wargs

In episode three of The Lord of the Rings: The Rings of Power, we meet the loathsome creatures known as the wargs. These wargs are also wolflike in nature and are being used as attack dogs by the Orcs. The wargs have a powerful snarl and even deadlier teeth. As compared to the sleek menace of the (potential) werewolves, they appear to be a much more savage Lord of the Rings creature. The warg we meet in Rings of Power attacks on a pure evil instinct and a hunger for blood.

In Tolkien’s lore, wargs are a specific breed of wolf that lives in the Misty Mountains. In The Lord of the Rings books, wargs were associated with orcs and sometimes goblins. And in The Rings of Power, they definitely follow that tradition… And that is bad news for our favorite Harfoots, elves, or any other creature.

Balrogs

In episode seven of The Rings of Power, a dark creature emerges from the depths. It looks like all that dwarven mining for mithril has awakened a grave danger in the depths of their mines, the Balrog. In The Lord of the Rings‘ lore, the Balrog is a a powerful spirit that becomes demonic at the hands of Morgoth. Famously, a Balrog nearly destroys the wizard Gandalf in an epic battle during The Fellowship of the Ring. The Balrog of Khazad-dûm has awakened a little earlier than we expected it to, but we have not doubt it will soon bring a lot of trouble to the dwarves and many others.

Middle-earth’s Creatures

As The Lord of the Rings: The Rings of Power continues to air, we’re sure we’ll see many more of Middle-earth’s creatures. Hopefully, a few less that would eat us and a few more we can admire. Either way, we’re excited to continue this new journey through Tolkien’s world.

Jump to: Snow Troll // Valinor’s Spirit Birds // The Worm // Wolves (Possibly Werewolves) // Wargs // The Balrog

Originally published on September 1, 2022.

The post Which Creatures of Middle-earth Does RINGS OF POWER Introduce? appeared first on Nerdist.

“Only weeks ago, my Lord husband was alive, and the realm was at peace.” Alicent notes at the beginning of the House of the Dragon season two, episode 4 trailer. And she’s pointing to what we’re all feeling. Things sure have devolved quickly on House of the Dragon, and now all-out war is rolling down the hill as events fall into place that cannot be retracted. If the Greens and the Blacks could have come to some more civil discussion before the child-killing and what-not on House of the Dragon, we may not have ended up here. But we guess here is precisely the point of this Game of Thrones‘ spinoff series.

You can check out the full trailer for House of the Dragon season two, episode four, below.

“Tread carefully.” The description for episode four shares. And yes, it refers to Aegon warning his mother Alicent to respect him in the trailer for the House of the Dragon season two episode. But it also refers to basically everyone in the realm. Not only is there an enemy to watch out for, but the trailer for the upcoming episode of House of the Dragon reveals that recruiting for sides in this Targaryen civil war will take a bloody turn in episode four. Not to mention, Rhaenyra has decided that it’s time to send the dragons to war. And we know that won’t end very well for anyone.

House of the Dragon season two, episode four, will air on July 7 at 9 PM on HBO and Max. You can learn more out more about House of the Dragon season two’s full release schedule here. In the meantime, we suggest that you start reinforcing your roof against dragon fire, stat. Things are about to get much hotter in House of the Dragon season two, episode four, if this trailer is anything to go by.

We’re not afraid, we’re just rational.

The post HOUSE OF THE DRAGON Season 2, Episode 4 Trailer Brings Dragons to War appeared first on Nerdist.

The time has finally come to set sail for more adventure and dream-chasing. One Piece season two has officially begun production and is one step closer to coming back onto our screens. Netflix revealed, that, of course, our Straw Hat pirates would all be returning for One Piece season two—but not alone. In addition to a host of new characters joining the cast, a few other familiar faces from season one will be back in One Piece‘s second season. Namely, Alvida, Buggy, and Gold Roger will once again be in the mix of One Piece‘s live-action story.

Let’s take a look at everything Netflix shared to celebrate One Piece season two’s production start.

One Piece Teases Season 2, Episode 1

We don’t know the exact plot of live-action One Piece‘s season two. But we do know the title of its first episode. One Piece season two, episode one will be called, “The Beginning and the End.” It will be written by Matt Owens and Ian Stokes. We’re ready to hear all the fan theories about what that title implies.

One Piece‘s Main Cast Reunite as Production Begins

As Taz Skylar notes, these are happy tears! And what a glorious reunion it is. The Straw Hat Pirates have all traveled to Cape Town, South Africa, to film the next chapter of their One Piece adventure. Iñaki Godoy (Monkey D. Luffy), Mackenyu (Zoro), Emily Rudd (Nami), Jacob Romero (Usopp) and Taz Skylar (Sanji) are all back together again once more as production begins for One Piece season two. We absolutely feel the love and crew bond between them all.

One Piece Season 2 Cast, Revealed

In a release celebrating season two’s production started, Netflix also shared that additional returning One Piece cast include “Ilia Isorelys Paulino as Alvida, Jeff Ward as Buggy, and Michael Dorman as Gold Roger.” Jeff Ward’s Buggy was a true fan-favorite, so it’s no surprise he’ll be back. No word yet on other season one standouts like Steven John Ward, who played Dracule Mihawk, or Peter Gadiot, who played Luffy’s red-headed mentor, Shanks. But hey, they still could be back. Netflix reveals that additional One Piece cast will be announced at a later date.

Of course, in addition to old One Piece favorites, “new cast members joining season two include Brendan Sean Murray as Brogy, Callum Kerr as Smoker, Camrus Johnson as Mr. 5, Clive Russell as Crocus, Daniel Lasker as Mr. 9, David Dastmalchian as Mr. 3, Jazzara Jaslyn as Miss Valentine, Julia Rehwald as Tashigi, Rob Colletti as Wapol, Ty Keogh as Dalton, and Werner Coetser as Dorry.” You can learn more about these new One Piece season two characters with our piece, here.

When Live Action Will One Piece Season 2 Release?

There’s no word yet on any release date for One Piece season two. But now that production on the show has started again, we’re sure we’ll get many more tantalizing treasures from Netflix sooner rather than later.

Originally published on July 1

The post ONE PIECE Season 2 Begins Production, Confirms Return of Buggy, Alvida, and Gold Roger appeared first on Nerdist.

Is wanting freedom so wrong? The Acolyte‘s Qimir tempts us to think very deeply about that question as he swings into the Star Wars universe with style and charisma. The series has been teasing the identity of its villainous Sith Lord master since its first episode. And finally, in episode five of The Acolyte, the villain’s mask flew off, and below it was the initially unassuming smuggler Qimir. Although many fans were already leaning toward Qimir as the Sith Lord “Master” on The Acolyte, few could have predicted Manny Jacinto’s complete shift in temperament, voice, attitude… and, dare we say it, magnetism.

Of course, Jacinto’s Qimir looks good. (We all see and agree with those posts about his very muscular arms.) But the character’s powers of seduction hit on an even more existential level than that. “I’ve accepted my darkness,” Qimir tells Sol. And never has following in his dark side footsteps seemed like such a compelling offering.

Qimir says that the Jedi might call him a Sith on The Acolyte. But whether he is a Sith in the Star Wars universe isn’t exactly confirmed yet. Qimir notes, “He has no name.” Regardless, while the Sith are all about passion, they still have a codified set of rules that orders them to follow it. Of course, the Jedi love to put restrictions on the use of the Force and want emotions and desires to be as tamped down as possible.

The Acolyte‘s Qimir seems very uninterested in all of that. Instead, his use of the Force and his fighting skills verge on many of the seven deadly sins—gluttonous, wrathful, and full of lust. He cuts a row of trees down because he can. Qimir murders Jedi after Jedi on The Acolyte because they’re in his way. He headbutts lightsabers, draped in the rare, powerful metal cortosis, to fizzle them out. All the while, he turns the Jedi’s absurd trainings right back on them. Yord says of him, “He doesn’t follow the rules of combat; there’s no method to his movements. It doesn’t make sense.” And it’s an apt description.

In these ways, Qimir brings something primal to the depiction of Star Wars‘ dark side that feels new. He moves and acts like a force of nature, hungry and consuming. Qimir’s powers seem barely controlled by even himself, dancing along his whims as they fluidly shift and change. And yes, the fact that Qimir’s arms are carelessly bare in the middle of battle has something to do with it, as does the sensuality of Jacinto’s portrayal of the character.

There’s a primordial sense to the power The Acolyte‘s Qimir has. And this godliness infects everything from how he fights to the very construction of his eloquent speeches about the nature of humanity and Jedi throughout the season. Of course, his desire for an Acolyte, a worshipper, and not an Apprentice or Padawan, only bolster the idea of of Qimir as a god… or a devil. Qimir makes the dark side feel more intimate and yet expansive than ever before.

Star Wars Sith have sought to rule the galaxy in previous franchise outings, often speaking of creating a “new order” in the universe. But Qimir’s desires aren’t about control; they’re about the complete surrendering of it. “Freedom.” He notes, when Sol asks him what he wants. “The freedom to wield my power the way I like.” Qimir’s version of darkness is heady. It doesn’t involve Imperial Marches or the building of an Empire. Qimir simply wants to do whatever he wants, whenever he wants to do it. He wants to manipulate and pretend, to raise his eyebrows snarkily with one breath and bring death in the next. He doesn’t make any sense, as Yord points out, and he doesn’t have to. Qimir moves beyond a rational understanding and transforms into a greater force.

And so, as we watch Qimir dance through battle after battle on The Acolyte, taking in the way he defeats everyone in his path, outsmarts them, and seemingly has a great time doing it, we really do find ourselves asking: Is wanting freedom so wrong? The dark side has truly never looked so good.

Rotem Rusak is Editor-in-Chief of Nerdist and a pop culture enthusiast. She’s always here to find the beauty in a villain.

The post Qimir Makes the Dark Side Look Good on THE ACOLYTE appeared first on Nerdist.

The LEGO Star Wars: Rebuild the Galaxy Disney+ special brought Darth Jar Jar to life. Fans could not have expected to see this most cherished theory about Jar Jar being a secret dark side agent evolve in such a way. But now Darth Jar Jar is taking on a whole new part of the galaxy, LEGO. Yes, Darth Jar Jar will arrive in LEGO Minifigure form, alongside some of his very favorite friends, Beach Luke, Jedi Vader, and more, in the latest Star Wars LEGO set, The Dark Falcon.

Here’s what we know about the LEGO Star Wars‘ Dark Falcon set.

LEGO Star Wars The Dark Falcon Set Brings an Evil Millennium Falcon to Life

Fans love to ask, what if? And courtesy of LEGO Star Wars: Rebuild the Galaxy, we get to see what if the Millenium Falcon went dark side. A release from LEGO shares more about the Star Wars set, revealing:

Turn the LEGO® Star Wars™ universe upside down with The Dark Falcon buildable toy vehicle set for kids (75389), which features a dark version of the Millennium Falcon, as seen in the LEGO Star Wars: Rebuild the Galaxy Disney+ special. A thrilling birthday gift for boys, girls and any fans aged 10 and up, this LEGO Star Wars brick-built starship toy has flip-up panels for easy access to the detailed interior, including Darth Jar Jar’s throne, the command center, hyperdrive, entertainment area and jail cell. Spring-loaded shooters, rotating cannons and a removable gunner post add to the action-play possibilities.

Darth Jar Jar’s LEGO throne, you say? Sold. Not to mention—spring-loaded shooters for maximum action. Good thing we’re aged 10 and up. This Star Wars LEGO The Dark Falcon set seems like one of those sets that is the perfect blend of complex, but cool, and not too difficult to put together. Sold!

How Many Pieces Does the LEGO Star Wars The Dark Falcon? And What Are Its Measurements

Just how big is LEGO’s The Dark Falcon set? Well, this Star Wars set contains 1,579 pieces. It measures over 5 in. (12 cm) high, 17 in. (43 cm) long and 12.5 in. (32 cm) wide. That means you won’t have too move too many things around to find a good place for it.

LEGO Star Wars The Dark Falcon Features 6 Minifigures

The Star Wars Minifigures for this LEGO set are pretty exciting ones. They feature fun reimaginings of your favorite characters. The Dark Falcon LEGO set comes with six Minifigures. These are Darth Jar Jar, Bounty Hunter C-3PO, Darth Dev, Darth Rey, Beach Luke, and Jedi Vader. These Minifigures will let you have fun, but confusing, space adventures not only with The Dark Falcon LEGO set, but with many other Star Wars LEGO sets as well.

When Does LEGO Star Wars The Dark Falcon Set Release and How Much Does it Cost?

The LEGO Star Wars The Dark Falcon set is now available for pre-order. It will ship on August 1, 2024. The LEGO Star Wars The Dark Falcon set costs $179.99.

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Deadpool & Wolverine‘s latest trailer brought back another familiar X-Men face: Sabretooth. Yes, the most recent trailer from the Deadpool movie offers us our first-look at Sabretooth’s return. And it’s a pretty hefty one. This trailer is all about Wolverine and his past. Things haven’t gone right for this version of Wolverine, whatever universe he’s from. But Sabretooth is still a big facet of his past. “Ready to die?” Sabretooth demands. But we can’t watch this fight yet because as Deadpool notes, folks have waited decades for this Wolverine and Sabretooth fight. To see Wolverine take on Sabretooth in an epic X-Men clash between hero and villain, you’ll need to head to theaters for Deadpool & Wolverine.

Here is Sabretooth in all his glory. We glimpsed Sabretooth in an earlier Deadpool & Wolverine trailer, but it wasn’t a very clear image. In fact, we couldn’t tell who would play Sabretooth in Deadpool & Wolverine at that point. But now we can confirm that, yes, the MCU’s Sabretooth will be played by Tyler Mane. Tyler Mane first played Sabretooth in the original 20th Century Fox movie from 2000, X-Men. Fans will remember Sabretooth menacingly growling at Storm, “You owe me a scream.” Tyler Mane’s version of Sabretooth did not appear again in any X-Men movies until now. Sabretooth appeared in X-Men: Origins but he was played by Liev Schreiber.

Although Wolverine is unlikely to follow Deadpool’s detailed advice on how to take on Sabretooth, we bet their fight will be one for the books.

Deadpool & Wolverine is bringing back a bunch of deep-cut X-Men characters and their actors for the MCU. And if we’re seeing Sabretooth in the trailer for the film, we bet there are a ton more surprise cameos in store.

We’ll be able to see them all when Deadpool & Wolverine premieres on July 26. Tickets are available now.

The post Here’s Our First Look at Sabretooth’s Return, Courtesy of DEADPOOL & WOLVERINE’s Latest Trailer appeared first on Nerdist.

Season two of Netflix’s One Piece will soon set sail. And that means we’ll be seeing more familiar faces come to life on our screen. Recently, Netflix has shared a string of new casting announcements for season two of live-action One Piece. But who are the new cast we’ll see on the high seas? From Smoker to Baroque Works Agents to everyone else in between, here the actors joining the cast of One Piece season two and the new live-action characters they’ll play.

One Piece Season 2 Casts Smoker, Tashigi, Wapol & Dalton

A very anticipated casting for One Piece season two is that of Smoker. This villainous figure was teased at the end of One Piece season one. In One Piece‘s world, Smoker is a marine on a mission… A mission to capture Luffy. And now we know that Monarch‘s Callum Kerr will play Smoker in One Piece season two as the character arrives in full.

Additionally, Netflix has cast Tashigi, Wapol, and Dalton to join the pirate-fun. Tashigi is also a marine who serves under Smoker. Tashigi is a skilled swordsman and we’ll no doubt see her clashing blades with Zoro in One Piece season two. Julia Rehwald has been cast as this new One Pieces season two live-action character.

Wapol, meanwhile, is a selfish character who used to be the king of his kingdom (called Drum). However, when pirates attacked, he fled his people in a cowardly way and became a pirate himself. He’s eaten of the Baku Baku no Mi Devil Fruit which allows him to eat nearly everything and then take on the characteristics of whatever he’s consumed. No doubt, Luffy will be a bit jealous of this eating ability. Rob Colletti will join the cast as Wapol.

Finally, One Piece season two has cast the live-action character of Dalton. Dalton is the new King of Wapol’s former kingdom and a friend to the Straw Hat Pirates. Ty Keogh has been cast as Dalton.

Crocus, Brogy, and Dorry’s Actors Join Live-Action One Piece Season 2

Additionally, One Piece revealed that actors Clive Russell, Brendan Murray, and Werner Coetser will join the season two cast as Crocus, Brogy, and Dorry.

Crocus, Clive Russell’s new character on One Piece season two, is an ally of the Straw Hat Pirates. He’s a lighthouse keeper, but also an exceptional doctor who was a part of Gol D. Roger’s crew.

Meanwhile, Brendan Murray, who has been cast as Brogy in One Piece season two, will play a giant on the series. He’s one of the two captains of the Giant Warrior pirates alongside Dorry. Dorry, also a giant, will be played, as mentioned, by Werner Coetser.

David Dastmalchian Will Play Mr. 3 in One Piece Season 2

We’re particularly excited to see David Dastmalchian cast in One Piece season two. Dastmalchian will play the devious Mr. 3, a member of the Baroque Work Agent crime syndicate. Mr. 3 has consumed the Wax Wax devil fruit and has total control over candle wax. This is definitely a unique and terrifying ability, especially in Dastmalchian’s hands.

One Piece Casts Three Other Baroque Work Agent Characters

But David Dastmalchian’s Mr. 3 isn’t the only Baroque Works Agent to join the cast of One Piece season two. Jazzara Jaslyn will play Miss Valentine, who has the Devil Fruit power of manipulating her body weight. Camrus Johnson joins the cast of Netfix’s live-action One Piece as Mr. 5. Mr. 5 has the deadly ability to create explosions from his body without harming himself. And finally, Daniel Lasker has come aboard as Mr. 9. The newly cast Mr. 9 will bring his metal bats to One Piece season two.

We’re sure these number/holiday-named agents will be up to no good in the season.

More New Characters and Cast Are On the Way for One Piece Season 2

One Piece teases that they’re just getting started with new season two cast announcements. We can’t wait to see who will appear on the horizon next.

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House of the Dragon season two has already served more than one heartbreaking death. But the cruelest season two death so far came when the now-King Aegon II smashed his father’s meticulous model of Old Valyria into pieces in grief over his son’s murder. The painstakingly detailed model of the Targaryen homeland was King Viserys’ pride and joy, and all that hard work was shattered in seconds. Anyone who has ever built a LEGO set before knows (or fears) that truest of pains. We’re sure King Viserys was mourning from beyond the grave. RIP King Viserys’ model of Valyria; we barely knew you, and we still wish you to become an actual LEGO set.

King Aegon II Destroys Viserys’ 8 Meter Valaryian Model

Thunk, thunk, crunch. Anyone who has spent hours, no, days, putting together a particularly complex LEGO set felt a touch of pain in their heart at the smashing. In minutes, Aegon II unraveled an unmeasurable amount of work with a vengeful, grieving hand. After hearing of the death of his son, Jaehaerys Targaryen, the impetuous Aegon took his emotions out on an innocent bystander, King Viserys’ model of Valyria of old.

In the world of House of the Dragon, building his model of the old city, the one-time jewel of the Targaryen House, was Viserys’ escape in a world of dragons and snarling family members. Season one of House of the Dragon reveals that he poured over old texts and maps to accurately understand the makeup of Valyria and then directed the stone masons, who built the structure. So, of course, Viserys wasn’t as fully invested as a LEGO lover might be, but we have to imagine his heart was as deeply in it. Throughout season one, the model of Valyria grew and sprawled out, taking over the massive room. It seems that by the end of it, the small-scale city measured eight meters.

In reality, Viserys’ Valyria model comprises hundreds of 3D-printed pieces that Prop Modeler, Craig Narramore, Set Decorator, Claire Nia Richards, and more deftly put together and decorated, piece by piece, detail by detail. You can check out the full building experience in the video above. We can only hope the Valyria model that Aegon rammed his sword into was not the real thing.

The (Second) Death of Valyria Holds Greater Meaning in House of the Dragon

Poor Valyria. It seems it will always be destined for destruction. In Game of Thrones‘ world, the true cause of Valyria’s destruction is unknown, but history speculates that massive volcanic explosions caused the destruction of the city. In that instance, House Targaryen was saved thanks to a vision from Daenys Targaryen, who foresaw doom and convinced the Targaryens to flee the city for Dragonstone.

But will House Targaryen be saved this time? In House of the Dragon season one, Viserys’ model of Valyria was meant to represent a yearning in him, something he was looking to understand but could never quite grasp. A yearning, it seems, for a house united. Perhaps Viserys hoped that by bringing Valyria into his present existence, he could tap into something that made the Targaryens strong. But this second destruction of Valyria reveals that this dream, at least for now, is dead like the model Viserys so carefully put together.

The hope of unity is gone as both sides of the Targaryen house draw blood. And with it, any memories of their halcyon days. The destruction Viserys’ model of Valyria is an elegantly symbolic loss.

Paddy Considine Reacts to Aegon Smashing His LEGO Set on House of the Dragon

Of course, House of the Dragon exists in both its fictional world and our own. Viserys’ actor Paddy Considine had a choice meme to share after witnessing Aegon destroy his LEGO set on House of the Dragon episode two. As we suspected, Viserys as horrified at this destruction from beyond the grave.

But Aegon isn’t very ashamed of himself for his part in the destruction of Valyria. Aegon’s actor Tom Glynn-Carney responded shamelessly with a “shoddy workmanship.” Shots fired! We guess we’ll have to wait for the blooper reel to see Viserys’ ghost chiding his son for ruining all his hard work.

When Will We Get a Valyria House of the Dragon LEGO Set?

But now, we must ask the important question. When will we get a House of the Dragon Valyria LEGO set of our own to build? Sadly, it doesn’t look like there’s been any conversation about it since House of the Dragon season one came out. Not even a set on LEGO Ideas.

Ultimately, it’s your move LEGO. Only you can write this wrong. Hopefully, if we ever do get a LEGO Valyria set, no furious King comes along to smash it.

The post RIP to King Viserys’ LEGO Set/Model of Valyria, a True HOUSE OF THE DRAGON Death appeared first on Nerdist.

Every good Star Wars movie or TV series has a new droid for us to love. It’s basically a fact. And Star Wars: The Acolyte is no different. The Acolyte will introduce us to an adorable new droid called, Pip. According to Star Wars‘ official description of Pip, Pip is “a handheld repair droid with a wide array of tool attachments, has a chipper, can-do personality. The pocket-sized droid is always eager to help, often suggesting just the right tool for the task at hand.”

Who Is Pip the Droid?

We love him already! And what a fun change that this Star Wars droid is handheld. It’s sure to set Pip apart. We can’t wait to see which of The Acolyte‘s characters befriends this new droid as he continues his adventures.

Pip the Droid in The Acolyte

In The Acolyte‘s first episodes, we learned that Pip belongs to Osha, a former Jedi Padawan who walked away from her training to become a mechanic instead. Pip performs all kinds of tasks for Osha such as welding and syncing into other tech systems to learn more about their vitals and glean other useful information. It looks like the Pip droid can do it all when it comes to fixing and tinkering.

Pip’s Heroic Sacrifice in The Acolyte

In The Acolyte‘s fifth episode, Pip the droid was a true hero. Osha had to sacrifice him to save Jedi Master Sol and herself from the evil Sith Lord Master, who was revealed to be Qimir. Luring Umbramoths with Pip’s flashlight, Osha successfully managed to engineer a plan to defeat the Sith Lord, at least for now. Osha attached flashlight Pip to Qimir and the Umbramoths, attracted to the light, swooped in and carried him far away. But at what cost?

Happily it seems like Bazil the tracker rescued Pip from the forests of Khofar. Hopefully, this means Pip and Osha will have a happy reunion soon. We love how The Acolyte used Pip the droid to remind us that in the Star Wars‘ world, even the most unassuming creatures can have big impacts.

More About Pip

You can also check out Pip the droid in the cool featurette highlighting Star Wars‘ designers and makers. You can see Pip appear around the 30 second mark.

 Creature & droid FX creative supervisor Neal Scanlan and his team additionally share that Pip was inspired by “retro gaming consoles, the Sony Walkman®, and the pencil cases of their youth.”

Scanlan notes, “I am rather pleased with Pip as a design because it’s the first handheld pocket droid that we’ve been involved with… We tried to choose a kind of late ‘70s to mid ‘80s design ethos. We also looked at things like Tamagotchis and those sorts of toys that people loved. You gotta keep Pip alive, you know! He’s not just this thing.”

Additionally, Star Wars homages in the form of stickers can be seen on Pip the droid’s form, including a homage to Loth-cats and other elements of Star Wars. The designers reveal that they tried to keep Pip’s parts to a minimum but still wanted him to be able to show emotions and personality. Scanlan offers, “You want to connect to him. You want to be able to see some emotion, you know, human emotion. His little aerial antenna can retract and go backwards or forwards depending on if he was sad or excited. He actually ended up with as much electronics in him as any other droid we’ve ever made. He’s compatible on a technological level. You had to be able to take his head off and use his head as an independent tool. And you could have many bodies. You could have the drill and the Swiss Army knife version. You could have the version that did your hair for you in the morning. You had the welding version. Probably even more than BB-8, I think that designing Pip with Leslye [Headland] was the most thorough investigation into a droid that we’ve ever done.”

Originally published on May 8, 2024.

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Rejoice, fellow coven members; there will be more Interview with the Vampire ahead of us. Yes, Interview with the Vampire has been renewed for season three at AMC. The hit Anne Rice series has had a smashing season two, full of twists and turns, so it’s no surprise AMC chose to renew the show. And yet, no renewal is ever certain. And so we celebrate that Interview with the Vampire, Louis, Lestat, and company will return for season three.

The show’s creator, Rolin Jones, recently shared that season three of Interview with the Vampire will tell the tale of The Vampire Lestat. The Vampire Lestat is definitely a beloved novel amongst Anne Rice fans, so we’ll be glad to see the story come to life on-screen now that Interview with the Vampire‘s renewal is official. Rock star Lestat? Sam Reid is going to crush rock star Lestat. We are ready.

A release shares of Interview with the Vampire‘s renewal, “In season three, resentful of the perfunctory portrayal in the trashy bestseller “Interview With The Vampire,” the Vampire Lestat sets his story straight in a way only the Vampire Lestat can—by starting a band and going on tour.  Gabrielle. Nicholas. Magnus. Marius. Those Who Must Be Kept. They join Louis, Armand, Molloy, Sam, Raglan, Fareed and others we can’t tell you about yet on a sexy pilgrimage across space, time and trauma. No Auto-Tuning. No Trigger Warnings. All Feels Amplified.”

Once again. Ready. The release also drops the names of some major characters we can expect to see in Interview with the Vampire season 3 like, Gabrielle, Magnus, and Those Who Must Be Kept. We’ve already met Nicholas in season two, of course. We can’t wait for the casting announcements to start flowing in. Of course, all our favorite actors including Jacob Anderson, who plays Louis, Sam Reid who plays Lestat, Eric Bogosian who plays Daniel Molloy, Assad Zaman who plays Armand, and more are likely to return. Although Claudia has met a devastating fate in Interview with the Vampire season two, hopefully, Delainey Hayles could emerge in season three as a Claudia ghost so we don’t have to do without her entirely.

Showrunner Rolin Jones completes the Interview with the Vampire season three renewal announcement in a magnificent fashion, noting, “Thank you to the brilliant casts and crews of the first two seasons that got us to this day. Thank you to the rabid, beautifully unwell fandom that scaled the castle walls to get us to this day. Thank you to Dan McDermott, Ben Davis for the funds and tools to continue the great work of dramatizing Anne Rice’s extraordinary novels. And sincere apologies to the family and friends of actor Sam Reid, for the possession that continues to this day. Monsieur L extends his promise to return his body upon cancellation (may that evening never come.)”

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There was much speculation about whether the MCU’s The Fantastic Four movie would be a period piece after its first piece of artwork was revealed. The poster certainly did evoke a certain ’60s sensibility. However, Marvel Studios did not comment further about whether the movie would be set in a previous era at the time. Now, though, Marvel Studios head Kevin Feige has confirmed on The Official Marvel Podcast that The Fantastic Four will indeed be a period piece set in the 1960s. You can take a look at the poster that kicked off all the speculation below and then see what Feige has to say exactly about The Fantastic Four and its setting.

When asked directly if The Fantastic Four would be set in the ’60s, as hinted, Feige said, “Yes, yes, very much so. It is a period.” However, we don’t yet know which version of the 1960s exactly we’ll see on screen. Feige teased that while The Fantastic Four might be a period piece, it won’t necessarily be set in the 1960s as it takes place on Earth in the main MCU timeline.

Feige notes, “There was another piece of art we released with Johnny Storm flying in the air, making a four symbol. There was a cityscape in the corner of that image and there was a lot of smart people who noticed that cityscape didn’t look exactly like the New York that we know and the New York that existed in the ’60s in our world. And those are smart observations, I’ll say.”

It sounds like Feige is hinting that though we can expect a period piece, the MCU will certainly turn the setting of The Fantastic Four on its head. That could mean more than a few different things, including alternate dimensions, time travel shenanigans, or other generalized multiversal mayhem. We’ll have to stay tuned to find out.

Feige also noted that The Fantastic Four will begin production on July 29, 2024, just after San Diego Comic-Con. The Marvel boss reveals his excitement for the film, sharing: “I’m extremely excited by it because I think those characters are mainstays, are legendary pillars of the Marvel universe that we’ve never got to play with or explore in any significant way, apart from Multiverse of Madness and a few fun teases before. In the way that we’re doing it in that film.”

The Fantastic Four will release on July 25, 2025. It will star Pedro Pascal as Reed Richards, a.k.a. Mister Fantastic, Vanessa Kirby as Sue Storm, a.k.a. the Invisible Woman, Ebon Moss-Bachrach as The Thing, and Joseph Quinn as Johnny Storm, a.k.a. the Human Torch. We can’t wait to see what kind of period piece The Fantastic Four brings to life.

The post Kevin Feige Confirms THE FANTASTIC FOUR Is a Period Piece Set in the 1960s (But Hints at Alternate Timeline) appeared first on Nerdist.

If there was one character that stood out in all of The Acolyte‘s promotional materials, it was the mysterious Sith Lord who hides his face behind a mask. Truly, this enemy of the Jedi is one of the most fearsome creations to ever emerge from a Star Wars property. But although his identity remains shrouded in mystery, Star Wars dark side fans didn’t have to wait long to meet his evil Sith. What did we learn about the menacing evil referred to as “The Master” in The Acolyte‘s first episodes and what has been revealed about him since? Let’s take a look.

The Sith Lord Known as “The Master” Wants Mae to Kill Jedi Without a Weapon in The Acolyte

We only saw The Acolyte‘s villainous Sith Lord once in the series’ first two episodes. Mae meets with him on a deserted beach located on an unknown planet. But in her later scenes with Qimir, we learn a bit more about this so-called “Master” and his agenda for Mae.

Mae reveals she has been tasked to kill four Jedi, seemingly by The Master. But from what she shares, the Sith Lord specifically wants her to kill a Jedi without using a weapon. So far, Mae has not been successful in these pursuits. She kills Jedi Master Indara with a knife and Jedi Master Torbin with poison from Qimir. But she notes that she has two Jedi left to kill in order to fulfill The Master’s command.

Qimir also seems to be in some way involved with the masked Sith Lord. When Osha poses as Mae, he believes for a moment Mae has succeeded in her task and notes, “Wait, you killed Torbin without the poison. He will be so pleased.” It remains to be seen how Qimir, who on the face appears more innocent than the rest, is mixed up with the Sith.

The Master and His Speech

When Mae meets with The Acolyte‘s villain at the end of the first episode, the Sith Lord offers the following speech. He intones, “The Jedi live in a dream, a dream they believe everyone shares, if you attack a Jedi with a weapon you will fail, steel or laser are no threat to them, but an Acolyte, an Acolyte kills without a weapon. An Acolyte kills the dream.”

Perhaps this has to do with why The Master is so set that Mae kills a Jedi without a weapon. The Sith Lord’s speech seems to imply that Jedi can only be taken down via emotional attacks/attacks to their spirit. And maybe that’s what The Master hopes Mae will learn to do. But for now, the practical aims of this villain’s mission remain unclear.

The Master Kills Wookiee Jedi Kelnacca

Although the Master wants Mae to kill the Jedi who oversaw the tragedy on her planet, as she begins to shy away from her mission, he intervenes. But for all his talk, he doesn’t seem to kill without a weapon, either. In episode four of The Acolyte, we find the Wookiee Jedi dead in his home with two lightsaber slashes decorating his chest. Outside the hut, our Jedi heroes gather to take Mae in, but they’re interrupted as the Master emerges from the woods of Khofar. The Sith Lord uses the force to fling Osha away and draws his red lightsaber, ready for a fight.

Who Is Star Wars: The Acolyte’s Mysterious Sith Lord?

But just who is Star Wars: The Acolyte‘s mysterious Sith Lord villain? Well, it turns out that the smuggler Qimir is actually the villainous, masked Master on The Acolyte. His identity is revealed in episode five. Qimir says the Jedi might refer to him as a Sith, but we speculate “the Master” might actually be connected to the Knights of Ren instead.

Is this Villainous Sith Lord the Titular Acolyte on The Acolyte, Is Mae, Or Someone Else?

Another natural question around Star Wars: The Acolyte is related to the identity of the titular Acolyte. Of course, the series seems to imply Mae is the Acolyte in question. Qimir reveals that he is looking for an Acolyte, but Mae has disappointed him. It seems he may turn to Osha instead. We’ll have to wait and see who becomes the true Acolyte.

Here Are Other Looks at Star Wars: The Acolyte‘s Sith Lord Villain

Click To View Gallery

The motivations of Star Wars: The Acolyte‘s villainous Sith Lord Qimir will surely unroll over time. And though he’s unmasked now, we still enjoyed the menace of his disguise. Here are some others images of “The Master” that we’ve seen so far.

The Acolyte is now airing on Disney+.

Originally published on June 4, 2024.

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Six Flags intends to bring the scares and screams in an extreme way this year with the biggest Fright Fest in history. Starting in September, you can experience “Fright Fest Extreme” and join the world’s largest regional theme park company as it celebrates Halloween in style. The biggest horror franchises ever are converging upon Six Flags, and they’re taking the shape of new haunts inspired by everything from Stranger Things to Saw. Let’s dive into everything you can experience at Six Flags Fright Fest Extreme.

What Extremely Eerie Attractions Can You Expect at Six Flags’ Fright Fest Extreme?

But what exactly can you look forward to at Six Flags’ Fright Fest Extreme? The theme park has revealed some more details about its diabolical fun. From an experience putting you in the middle of a Jigsaw trap from Saw to an undead battle celebrating Army of the Dead to a twisted “candy trail nightmare” in honor of the legendary Trick ‘r Treat, and more, here are the horror-inspired mazes that Six Flags has in store for Fright Fest:

• The SAW Franchise – Celebrate the 20^th anniversary of SAW with an all-new experience honoring the franchise’s legacy of terror by plunging guests into the depths of Jigsaw’s twisted mind. Guests will endure torturous trials and come face to face with some of John Kramer’s most diabolical contraptions before time runs out.

• The Conjuring Universe – Strap in for a tour of the Warrens’ most hair-raising and gruesome cases including those that inspired The Conjuring, Annabelle and The Nun. In each realm, encounters with cursed artifacts make you the target of the conjuring.

• Stranger Things – The students of the Hawkins School District decide to team up to create a little innocent Halloween fun for their community – but things quickly flip upside down and morph into something far darker.

• Army of the Dead – The City of Las Vegas is under lockdown following a recent viral outbreakand survivors must look for an escape while battling the undead.

• Trick ‘r Treat – Enter a dark and twisted candy trail nightmare on a jack-o-lantern-lit path of supernatural encounters which tap into your deepest fears. With Sam, the infamous Spirit of Halloween, as your guide, learn the rules of the spooky holiday before entering a world where tricks dominate treats.

• Texas Chainsaw Massacre (2022)– Guests are “cast” as visitors to Harlow on the heels of the influencers set on revitalizing the town – but their arrival leads to a stunning and deadly secret being revealed.

• DCeased – Based on the #1 best-selling comic series, fans enter through the Hall of Justice to find that the DC Universe has succumbed to Darkseid’s Anti-Life Equation! See the Justice League like never before, as they fight to save the Earth or end it themselves. Will you be one of the few to survive these new scares of the DC Universe?

In Which Six Flags Parks Will Fright Fest Take Place?

But where will you be able to enjoy the Fright Fest fun? A release from Six Flags shares:

This year, Fright Fest returns with a vengeance and goes EXTREME. Visitors to Six Flags Great Adventure in New Jersey and Six Flags Magic Mountain in Los Angeles will step into a world where nightmarish creatures inspired by legendary horror brands come to life with Lionsgate and Twisted Pictures’ SAW franchise, Netflix’s Stranger Things and Army of the Dead, Warner Bros. Discovery’s The Conjuring, Annabelle and The Nun, and Legendary Entertainment’s Trick ‘r Treat. Guests at Six Flags Great Adventure will also be treated to a new experience from Netflix and Legendary Entertainment’s Texas Chainsaw Massacre (2022) while visitors to Six Flags Mexico will have access to a special exclusive maze based on the bestselling comic series from DC Comics.

In addition to the New Jersey, Los Angeles, and Mexico locations, “A mix of the above mazes will also be available at additional Six Flags parks, building upon the legacy of the event’s renowned reputation as the ultimate Halloween destination across the United States and Mexico.” So stay tuned for more information about where Six Flags Fright Fest is heading.

When Is Fright Fest Extreme, and How Can You Experience the Scary Fun?

At Six Flags Magic Mountain in Los Angeles, Fright Fest Extreme will run from September 7 to November 3, the longest Fright Fest ever with 32 nights of fright. A release notes that Fright Fest Extreme will operate on selected Thursdays through Sundays.

In New Jersey’s Six Flags Great Adventure, Fright Fest Extreme will also run for 32 terrifying nights from September 7 to November 3, but this time it will run on select Wednesdays through Sundays.

Anyone visiting other parks should check Fright Fest Extreme schedule and offerings on sixflags.com.

Additionally, tickets for Fright Fest Extreme are now on sale. According to a release they will be available for the lowest price of the season in June.

Those planning to visit Six Flags Magic Mountain or Great Adventure should note that the Fright Fest Extreme admission options in Los Angeles and New Jersey include:

• Single Day Admission – A separate admission event ticket will be required for Fright Fest Extreme admission with access to all haunted attractions, rides and entertainment. Guests can purchase an express upgrade for priority entry to all haunted houses.

• Pass Holder Admission – Fright Fest Extreme park admission will be included for all 2024 Gold, Platinum and Diamond Season Pass Holders, Six Plus Members and Legacy Members with a valid Pass. An additional fee for entry to haunted houses will still be required.

We wish you all a happily haunted time.

Editor’s Note: Nerdist is a subsidiary of Legendary Digital Networks.

The post Six Flags’ Fright Fest to Feature STRANGER THINGS, DCeased, TRICK ‘R TREAT and More appeared first on Nerdist.