Here Are 5 Things To Look Out For At This Year’s STGCC

The Singapore Toy,Game & Comic Convention (STGCC) is celebrating it’s 10th anniversary this year, and throughout the years they continue to impress and show off the latest trends in Pop Culture.

Fans from all parts of the world swarm in to this “little red dot” just for this spectacular occasion. It’s no secret that STGCC gets bigger and better every year and for the first time in the 10 years there will be three exhibit halls instead of the usual two. The guest line up for this year includes Marvel Comics editor C.B. Cebulski, Disney artist James C. Mulligan and many more that will leave fans flabbergasted.

Happening on the 9th and 10th of September at the Marina Bay Sands Expo (Halls D, E, F) here are FIVE things that you should look out for at this years STGCC.

1. Entire hall dedicated to gaming

[caption id="attachment_7736" align="alignnone" width="1572"] image: STGCC[/caption]

For the first time STGCC has appointed an entire hall just for gaming. Indulge in the ultimate gaming experience by trying out the latest gaming products and spectate eSports tournaments happening at the same time. Tournaments consists of DOTA 2 – Singapore Qualifier and CS:GO – Singapore Qualifier. Teams will be competing for a total prize pool of SGD$20,000. The winners of the two qualifiers will represent Singapore in the APAC Regional Qualifiers in Philippines happening on the 26-29 October 2017. This hall is set to be extremely hyped, so bring along your game face.

2. Experience the ultimate Star Wars experience

[caption id="attachment_7737" align="alignnone" width="1572"] image: STGCC[/caption]

An entire zone will be committed to give Star Wars fan a journey they will never forget. A replica of Kylo Ren’s TIE Silencer first of its kind in South East Asia will be available for viewing, if that’s not enough to get your pods racing “i mean, hearts racing” there will also be fan-built vehicle replicas, games, collectibles and many more. Words alone cant justify how amazing the Star Wars zone is going to be, so do not miss out on this zone and May The Force Be With You!

3. Exclusive and limited edition toys

[caption id="attachment_7738" align="alignnone" width="1572"] image: STGCC[/caption]

For all you collectors do not miss out on exclusive and limited edition toys . There will be limited quantities, so as hard as it is to avoid distractions and get carried away by other attractions, collectors and fans should make this their first priority if you hope to get your hands on exclusive DC and Marvel figurine. A good nights rest should get you ready for this.

4. Japanese pop music

[caption id="attachment_7739" align="alignnone" width="1572"] image: STGCC[/caption]

Japanese pop music has made its appearance in STGCC throughout the years, and fans have waited a year to see them perform again. Vocal groups such as “Color Pointe” and “Tokyo CLEAR’S” along with composer “Yunomi feat. nicamoq, producer group “REDSHiFT and DJ Margenal will all be performing at STGCC this year.

5. POP fun zone

[caption id="attachment_7744" align="alignnone" width="1200"] image: STGCC[/caption]

The POP fun zone is a area for you to rest and relax, with food and a play area for your children the POP fun zone is a must look out for to give those feet a rest and to fill those hunger cravings after burning out from all the excitement.

If you have not purchased a ticket yet, do not panic because they are still available online and purchasable at the door.

Online Ticket Price -STGCC ALL ACCESS PASS:

  • 1-Day Pass : S$19
  • 2-Day Pass: S$28
  • VIP Tickets: S$85

Door Ticket Price -STGCC ALL ACCESS PASS:

  • 1-Day Pass : S$21
  • 2-Day Pass: S$30
  • VIP Tickets: S$85

To find out more visit:

These Movies That Are Coming Out Next Year Will Make You Glad It’s Nearly 2017

Out with the old, in with the new. It’s nearly the New Year, which means we not only get a new Star Wars film, it’s the first time three Marvel Studios movies will be released in a year and we might even get our first decent DC movie between Wonder Woman and Justice League.

Here are some noteworthy films to look forward in 2017, ordered chronologically:

1) The LEGO Batman Movie (February)

Starting off the year is The LEGO Batman Movie, a spin-off from the very successful The LEGO Movie. Will Arnett reprises his role as the titular character with a more comical over-the-top portrayal of the Dark Knight. Michael Cera lends his voice to the character of Robin while Zach Galifianakis plays arch-villain The Joker.

Release: February 10, 2017

2) Logan (March)

Following the success of the R-rated Deadpool, fans will finally get to see a Wolverine film in similar fashion – more violence and less humour, of course. Logan is inspired by the Old Man Logan, a short series in the comics which features an older Wolverine whose healing factor is beginning to fail. Watching the trailer alone will show the departure in tone from previous X-Men and Wolverine movies. It’s also said to be Hugh Jackman’s final movie as our favourite claw-wielding mutant.

Release: March 2, 2017

3) Kong: Skull Island (March)

If you didn’t already know, Legendary Entertainment and Warner Bros. are building a Godzilla-Kong film universe, with a Godzilla vs. Kong movie slated for 2020. In line with that shared universe is a King Kong reboot to introduce the famed ape into the series, with an updated take on the classic tale. Kong: Skull Island stars Tom Hiddleston, Samuel L. Jackson and Brie Larson.

Release: March 10, 2017

4) Power Rangers (March)

While the verdict is still out there on this, one thing’s for sure: it’s got my nostalgia senses tingling. Almost every 90s kid remembers watching Power Rangers to some degree as a child, and while this looks vastly different stylistically, it’s going on the list. It’s also expected to be the first film in a series of many, with Lionsgate CEO saying that “…we [the studio] could see doing five or six or seven.”

Release: March 24, 2017

5) The Fate of the Furious (April)

Looking past the obviously jarring movie title – we’re assuming ‘Fate’ was used to make #F8 make more sense, the highly successful franchise of street racers-turned-professional criminals is at its eight installment. As seen in the trailers, the antagonist comes in the form of Dom who turns his back on family. This leads the crew to team up with The Rock and a former nemesis played by Jason Statham to bring Dom down.

Release: April 14, 2017

6) Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 2 (May)

Need we say more? The sequel to the highly successful Guardians of the Galaxy is hotly anticipated, especially after fans have come to love this band of obscure lesser known Marvel characters. The film will take us to new planets and introduce new characters including the father of Peter “Star-Lord” Quill. Chris Pratt, Zoe Saldana and Dave Bautista return as Star-Lord, Gamora and Drax, while Bradley Cooper and Vin Diesel reprise their voice acting roles as Rocket Raccoon and Groot.

Release: May 5, 2017

7) Wonder Woman (June)

While Batman v. Superman and Suicide Squad didn’t exactly win critics over, DC fans are hopeful that Wonder Woman will finally set the DC Extended Universe on course to rival Marvel Cinematic Universe. Gal Gadot’s updated take on the Amazonian warrior was a refreshing addition to the testosterone-filled BvS, and from what we can see from the trailer, this movie looks like a it’s going to be hit. Fingers crossed!

Release: June 2, 2017

8) Spider-Man: Homecoming (July)

While DC and Warner Bros. are still finding their footing, Marvel has been making hit after hit and has become a reliable bet in the box office in recent years. That’s the reason Sony, who owns the film rights to Spider-Man, finally relented and decided to share everyone’s favourite wall-crawler with his creator. This meant Marvel Studios got to make creative decisions on the upcoming Spider-Man film, while including appearances from other Marvel Cinematic Universe characters such as Tony Stark. Homecoming takes place over Peter Parker’s high school years, with director Jon Watts describing it as a John Hughes-y film within the MCU.

Release: July 7, 2017

9) War for the Planet of the Apes (July)

The Planet of the Apes movies are known for its really long titles – even the original series in the early 70s had them, but this time war is looming at it doesn’t look good for mankind. The upcoming War for the Planet of the Apes is the third installment of the franchise after Rise and Dawn, and as the title alludes, the apes and humans engage in a battle for to determine their fate on Earth.

Release: July 14, 2017

10) Thor: Ragnarok (November)

Given that the film only releases in November, there’s still trailer or poster we could use besides this video shot during the production of the film. Thor: Ragnarok will be the third Marvel Studios movie after GotG 2 and Spider-Man: Homecoming, and is primarily set in Asgard. The movie is said to be a bridge towards Infinity War, the third Avengers movie, and also introduce the final infinity stone – the soul gem. Chris Hemsworth and Tom Hiddleston return as Thor and Loki while Mark Ruffalo makes an appearance as Hulk in the film.

Release: November 3, 2017

11) Star Wars Episode VIII

The best news to come from Disney’s purchase of Lucasfilm was that we’ll be getting a new Star Wars film every year from 2015 to 2021. While the main ‘episodes’ will be released every two years, standalone stories will fill the gaps, starting off with the very well-received Rogue One. In 2017, we’ll be getting Episode VIII, which continues the adventures of Rey, Finn, Poe and BB-8 continuing right from the end of The Force Awakens. 

Release: December 16, 2017

Ben Affleck’s Solo Batman Film Has Its Villian: Deathstroke

Deathstroke Batman Ben Affleck

When Ben Affleck took to his Facebook and Twitter accounts to post a clip of fan-favourite villain Deathstroke, many were skeptical.

Some speculated a Deathstroke appearance in the upcoming Justice League movie while many thought it was nothing more than an epic troll by Affleck.

Well, breathe easy fanboys as Ben Affleck wasn’t teasing. Deathstroke might not be appearing in the upcoming Justice League film but he will be the main villain in Ben Affleck’s standalone Batman movie, according to Screen Shot 2016-08-30 at 11.47.18 AM

Screen Shot 2016-08-30 at 11.54.04 AM

The news coincides with earlier reports that Deathstroke would be appearing in a DC Extended Universe film after the creator of TV show Arrow was asked on why the character wasn’t returning to the series.

Earlier this month, Ben Affleck’s co-star Henry Cavill also took to social media to tease fans in what appeared to be a part of a black Superman suit, similar to the one in The Death and Return of Superman graphic novel.

The solo Batman movie, titled The Batman, will be directed and written by Ben Affleck.

Suicide Squad Reviews Aren’t Great, But Here’s Why You Should Watch It Anyway

Reviews for the highly anticipated Suicide Squad began trickling in over the last day or so and the main consensus appears to be negative.

Currently sitting at 35% on Rotten Tomatoes, critics called out the movie’s messy plot, questionable directing and choppy script.

While the early reviews do not favour the latest entry into DC’s Extended Universe (DCEU), here are reasons why you should still catch this summer flick when it releases this week.

1) Star-studded Cast

It’s not everyday you get a comic book movie with such heavy-hitting, award-winning and award-nominated cast members. For starters, there’s Academy Award winner Jared Leto playing The Joker and Emmy Award winner Viola Davis playing a mean and ethically-questionable Amanda Waller. Despite the film’s mixed reviews, Jared Leto was praised for his take on the role which could have been easily shadowed by acclaimed portrayals from Heath Ledger and Jack Nicholson.

Speaking of standout performances, Margot Robbie’s portrayal of Harley Quinn has been said to be the shining light of the movie.

Other stars include Will Smith, Jai Courtney, and Cara Delevingne.

2) It’s Made For Fans

After discouraging reviews hit the web, director David Ayer responded on Twitter, expressing his love and belief in the movie which he made for fans. While it’s easy to believe that any director would defend his or her own film (unless you’re Josh Trank), Ayer has a track record of writing and directing well-respected films including Training Day and Fury.

https://twitter.com/DavidAyerMovies/status/760563205068431360?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw

3) Great Soundtrack

Singles from the official soundtrack have been making their rounds on the radio these last few weeks. Heathens by Twenty One Pilots is currently in the Global Top 10 on Spotify while Sucker For Pain features a squad of its own with Lil Wayne teaming up with Wiz Khalifa, Imagine Dragons, Logic, Ty Dolla $ign and X Ambassadors.


Action Bronson and Mark Ronson just dropped their latest song from the soundtrack as well called Standing In The Rain, featuring Dan Auerbach from The Black Keys.

4) It’s Projected To Do Well Commercially

Regardless of the reviews, Suicide Squad is still projected to do well in the box office with an opening weekend of at least US$125 million domestically in North America. US-based ticketing site Fandango reported that advance sales for Suicide Squad is its biggest pre-sale for any August title in the company’s 16-year history. Those pre-sale numbers are already outpacing the critically-acclaimed Deadpool and Guardians of the Galaxy.

5) It’s The Last Summer Blockbuster For The Year

Suicide Squad ends off a fairly topsy turvy summer for movies. Nevertheless, it’s the last blockbuster we’ve got until Doctor Strange pops onto screens in November. What’s more, Marvel Studios head Kevin Feige has hinted that a new Doctor Strange trailer might be attached to Suicide Squad. Sounds good to me!

6) It Can’t Be As Bad As Batman v Superman

‘Nuff said

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Suicide Squad opens in Indonesia on 3 August, and in Singapore, Malaysia and The Philippines on 4 August 2016.

5 Must-Watch Trailers From Comic-Con 2016

It’s that time of the year again where millions of comic book and sci-fi movie lovers wait up hoping that the film studios participating in the San Diego Comic-Con would release the trailers and clips they’ve showed to attendees on to the Internet.

Unlike recent years where we’ve seen absences from top studios, this year’s top trailers include entries from the likes of Marvel Studios, Warner Bros & DC, and some top TV show trailers from the networks and Netflix.

Let’s get straight to it.

1) Justice League

There was a time when the Internet completely dismissed Ben Affleck when he was casted as Batman. Shortly after Batman v Superman released, he was regarded as the only good thing about that movie. Good thing for us is that it looks like he’ll be the leader and main good guy in the upcoming Justice League movie that sees him assembling his team Ocean’s Eleven style with Gal Gadot’s Wonder Woman (more on her later).

[embed]https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gglkYMGRYlE[/embed]

 

Film: Justice League
Studio: Warner Bros. Pictures
Cast: Ben Affleck, Henry Cavill, Gal Gadot, Ezra Miller, Jason Momoa
Release: November 2017

2) Doctor Strange

Benedict Cumberbatch can almost do no wrong at this point of his career. Almost anything he touches turns to gold and his versatility in working from critically acclaim Oscar-worthy dramas to explosion-packed family-loving blockbusters makes him a studio, critic and audience favourite. The unsung hero in all of this – Marvel’s success – is its casting director, who has time and time again delivered on every level, from Robert Downey Jr as Tony Stark to the latest announcement of Brie Larson as Captain Marvel. Behold Cumberbatch as Stephen Strange, another testament to the brilliant casting choices at Marvel. I think I’ll be changing my Wi-fi password to “shambala” from now on.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HSzx-zryEgM

 

Film: Doctor Strange
Studio: Marvel Studios / Walt Disney Studios
Cast: Benedict Cumberbatch, Chiwetel Ejiofor, Rachel McAdams, Tilda Swinton
Release: November 2016

3) Wonder Woman

Speaking of brilliant casting choices, Gal Gadot is proving to be a big hit amongst DC fans and comic book lovers as a whole. It’s not hard to see why. The trailer sees a whole introduction to the Amazonian world she comes from and the chemistry between her and Chris Pine’s character. It’s a refreshing change for once to see a woman take lead in a superhero film, with a leading actor such as Pine taking on a supporting role. Even towards to trailer’s end do we see a commentary on the treatment of women in that era, which to some extent is still prevalent in our society today.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5lGoQhFb4NM

 

Film: Wonder Woman
Studio: Warner Bros. Pictures
Cast: Gal Gadot, Chris Pine
Release: June 2017

4) Fantastic Beasts and Where To Find Them

This is arguably the best trailer we’ve had so far for the film adaptation of J.K. Rowling’s spin-off tale. The trailer sees Newt Scamandar, played by Eddie Redmayne, travelling to America in mid-1920s when his creatures escape from his magical briefcase, ensuing chaos and a bit of fun and adventure.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YdgQj7xcDJo

 

Film: Fantastic Beasts and Where To Find Them
Studio: Warner Bros. Pictures
Cast: Eddie Redmayne, Katherine Waterston, Colin Farrell
Release: November 2016

5) The Lego Batman Movie

Spinning off the success of the highly acclaimed The Lego Movie, The Lego Batman Movie focuses on Lego Batman, a massive departure from character we’ve seen in Christopher Nolan’s Dark Knight trilogy or Ben Affleck’s dark and brooding Bruce Wayne, which makes it all the more humourous. Will Arnett did a brilliant on voice duties for The Lego Movie and I can’t wait to see how this one plays out.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NrMgOg3RjpE

 

Film: The Lego Batman Movie
Studio: Warner Bros. Pictures
Cast: Will Arnett, Zach Galifianakis, Michael Cera
Release: February 2017

Bonus Mentions:

Beyond the film trailers, Marvel and Netflix also dropped trailers for Luke Cage, Iron Fist and The Defenders series, which will see all of their Netflix characters team up against a common foe.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ymw5uvViqPU

[embed]https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QCSPda7xQ3s[/embed]

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wBZtM8q2Z1g