MovieViral.com

(EDITOR’S NOTE: PLEASE SEE OUR COVERAGE UPDATE)


It’s almost here! The one and only 2009 San Diego Comic-Con International is coming up in two days. To be sure you’re still infected with viral, MovieViral.com will be at the 2009 Comic Con for live coverage. I will be there, giving you guys (or gals) daily updates and previews.


To be sure your not lost or curious of what events are going to be present at this year’s Comic Con, this is the current schedule through July 23-26:

*The events in bold have a current viral campaign or have potential viral/strong interest

Thursday July 23:
10:15-11:15 – Summit Entertainment: Astro Boy — A superhero origin story set in a futuristic world, Astro Boy is an all-new CG-animated feature film based on the classic manga about a young robot with incredible powers and his adventure-filled journey in search of his identity and destiny. Director David Bowers, producer Maryanne Grager, and stars Freddie Highmore (Astro) and Kristen Bell (Cora) debut footage exclusive to Comic-Con 2009 and answer your questions about bringing this beloved hero to the big screen. Room 6BCF


11:00-12:30 – Disney: 3D Panel — Walt Disney Pictures presents key filmmakers, select cast members and previously unseen footage from its upcoming slate, including Disney’s A Christmas Carol, Alice In Wonderland and Tron. Special guests include Robert Zemeckis, Tim Burton, Sean Bailey, Steve Lisberger, and moderator Patton Oswalt. Hall H


11:30-12:30 Hasbro: G.I. Joe— The Hasbro design and marketing teams—Aaron Archer and Michelino Paolino (Hasbro Design), and Jeff Labovitz (Hasbro Marketing), discuss the upcoming release of the G.I. Joe: The Rise of Cobra movie, the new toy line hitting shelves, the new video game, and much more! This panel will include special guests that you won’t want to miss, plus Q&A time. Room 7AB


12:45-1:30 – 3D Showcase: Cloudy With a Chance of Meatballs, The Hole, The Final Destination — Get a first look at 3 brand new films in stunning 3D! First up, it’s Columbia Pictures and Sony Animation’s Cloudy With a Chance of Meatballs, inspired by the classic children’s book, the film focuses on a town where food begins to fall from the sky like rain. See an extended 3D clip from this eagerly awaited animated film!


Next up, legendary director Joe Dante (Gremlins 1 & 2, Innerspace, Explorers, The Howling) makes his return to the genre he knows best with the 3D thriller The Hole. Three kids come face to face with their darkest fears after they unlock a bottomless hole in the basement that makes their nightmares come to life. Join Dante—along with actress Haley Bennett (The Haunting of Molly Hartley)—as he discusses his return to thrillers, working in 3D, and The Hole. And finally, it’s The Final Destination, the new film in the popular series from Warner Bros. See an exclusive clip in 3D, from the upcoming film. Hall H


1:45-2:45 – Summit Entertainment — Summit Entertainment presents a sneak peek of exclusive footage of some of its upcoming major film releases, including Astro Boy, Sorority Row, and The Twilight Saga: New Moon. Hall H


2:00-3:00 – Sony Pictures Animation: Cloudy with a Chance of Meatballs — In 2009, Columbia Pictures’ and Sony Pictures Animation’s Cloudy with a Chance of Meatballs will be the most delicious event since macaroni met cheese. Inspired by the classic children’s book, the film focuses on a town where food begins to fall from the sky like rain. Bill Hader (Saturday Night Live, Night at the Museum: Battle of the Smithsonian) is the voice of Flint Lockwood, a young inventor who dreams of creating something that will improve everyone’s life. Anna Faris (The House Bunny) takes on the role of Sam Sparks, a weathergirl covering the phenomenon who hides her intelligence behind a perky exterior. Appearing in person: Anna Faris, Bill Hader, Andy Samberg, Bobb’e J. Thompson, and directors Chris Miller and Phil Lord. Room 6BCF


3:00-4:15 – 20th Century Fox and James Cameron present Avatar — In this first public screening of footage in 3D from his much-anticipated action/adventure/fantasy, James Cameron, producer Jon Landau, and cast members take you to a spectacular new world beyond imagination. Conceived 14 years ago and over four years in the making, Avatar breaks new ground in delivering a fully immersive, emotional story and reinvents the movie-going experience. Hall H


4:30-5:15 – Terry Gilliam’s The Imaginarium of Dr Parnassus — Celebrating the 40th Anniversary of both Comic-Con and Monty Python, we welcome the sole American Python, the great animator and director Terry Gilliam (Time Bandits, Brazil, 12 Monkeys) to introduce you to his new film starring Christopher Plummer, Johnny Depp, Heath Ledger, Colin Farrell, Jude Law, Verne Troyer, Tom Waits, and Lily Cole. Hall H


5:15-5:45 – Overture Pictures: Pandorum — Don’t fear the end of the world. Fear what happens next. From the producers of the Resident Evil film franchise comes a terrifying thriller in which two crewmembers wake up on an abandoned spacecraft with no idea who they are, how long they’ve been asleep, or what their mission is. The two soon discover they’re actually not alone—and the reality of their situation is more horrifying than they could have imagined. Appearing in person to give you a taste of Pandorum are stars Ben Foster (X-Men: The Last Stand, 3:10 to Yuma, 30 Days of Night), Cung Le (The Ultimate Fighter), and Antje Traue. Pandorum is in theaters September 18. Hall H


5:30-6:30 – The Physics of Hollywood Movies — Join physics instructor Adam Weiner (author of Don’t Try This at Home! The Physics of Hollywood Movies) for an interactive presentation employing basic physical principles and a sense of humor in analyzing scenes from favorite Hollywood science fiction, superhero, and action movies, from Iron Man to 2001: A Space Odyssey, and actually learn the physics behind them—both good and bad! Room 30CDE


5:45-6:45 – Kick-Ass — World premiere footage from Kick-Ass, based on Mark Millar’s bestselling comic, is presented by director Matthew Vaughn (Stardust, Layercake). Joining him on the panel are Nicolas Cage, Christopher Mintz-Plasse (Superbad), and comic co-creator John Romita Jr., among others, including a surprise guest. You don’t want to miss the chance to be the first to experience this gritty, brash, and funny actioner. Hall H


6:30-7:00 – Focus Features: Thirst — Focus Features and Comic-Con present a rare U.S. appearance by acclaimed Korean filmmaker Park Chan-wook, whose “scandalous vampire melodrama” Thirst just won the Prix du Jury (Jury Prize) at the 2009 Cannes International Film Festival. Park will show clips from the movie— which opens in select cities on July 31—and discuss his career. Hall H

9:30-12:00 – Halloween Comes Early: Trick ‘r Treat Screening — Be among the first to see writer/director Michael Dougherty’s (Superman Returns, X2) creepy, darkly comic celebration of the scariest night of the year. Ballroom 20


Friday July 24:
10:00-12:30 – Warner Bros. — Join WB for a look at their much anticipated slate of upcoming genre films, including Where The Wild Things Are, The Book of Eli, A Nightmare on Elm Street, The Box, Jonah Hex, and Sherlock Holmes. Hall H


10:30-11:30 – Coraline — Visionary director and screenwriter Henry Selick (The Nightmare Before Christmas) and Newbery Medal-winning author Neil Gaiman discuss the making of the LAIKA/Focus Features 2009 breakout animated hit film Coraline. In celebration of Universal Studio’s Blu-ray Hi-Def and DVD release of the critically acclaimed stop-motion film, Selick and Gaiman will be joined by lead animator and LAIKA CEO/president Travis Knight, producer Bill Mechanic (CEO of Pandemonium and producer of Dark Water and The New World), character fabrication supervisor Georgina Hayns (Corpse Bride), and voice talent Keith David (Crash). Panelists will offer an in-depth, behind-the-scenes glimpse at how this astonishing and suspenseful adventure—the first stop-motion animated feature originally produced in stereoscopic 3D—was painstakingly brought to life. The panel is moderated by IGN movies/DVD editor-in-chief Eric Moro. Room 6A


12:45-2:15 – Disney: Animation Panel — Walt Disney Pictures, Disney•Pixar and Walt Disney Animation Studios present a director panel with previously unseen footage from its upcoming animated slate, including Toy Story & Toy Story 2 – Double Feature, Beauty And The Beast, Toy Story 3, Prep & Landing, The Princess and the Frog and Ponyo. Special guests include Lee Unkrich, Kirk Wise, Ron Clements, John Musker, and Hayao Miyazaki. John Lasseter hosts the panel, with Patton Oswalt moderating. Hall H


1:45-2:45 – Robert Rodriguez — Join famed director Robert Rodriguez (Spy Kids) for a first look at his upcoming family film Shorts, followed by Q&A. Room 6DE


2:00-3:00 – The Design Process for Film and Television — The making of a film or television show is a collaborative process. The director enlists the talents of his/her key collaborators—the costume designer, the production illustrator, and the production designer—right from the start of a production. Costume illustrators and concept & storyboard artists, brought on to productions to develop images under the guidance of the designers, serve a key position in the web of communication that is essential to filmmaking. This panel gives a glimpse into the fundamental importance of illustration, as well as the seamless creativity between the key conceptual departments on favorite feature films and television productions. Moderator William David Hogan, director and storyboard artist (The Orphan), hosts costume illustrators from CDG, Local 892: Robin Richesson (Iron Man), Phillip Boutte, Jr. (Jonah Hex), Felipe Sanchez (Green Hornet), Christian Cordella (GI Joe), and Brain Valenzuela (Star Trek 2009), as well as illustrators and artists from Local 800: Jeff Errico (Burlesque), Dawn Brown (Star Trek 2009), Ricardo Delgado (X-Men Origins: Wolverine), and Josh Nizzi (Transformers Revenge of the Fallen). Room 32AB


2:30-3:30 – Focus Features: 9 — Focus Features and Comic-Con present an exclusive look inside director Shane Acker’s animated fantasy epic 9, the feature-length expansion of his short film of the same name. Directors Tim Burton and Timur Bekmambetov are among the feature version’s producers. The action-packed adventure—opening nationwide 9/9/09—takes place after our world fell to pieces, when a group of “stitchpunk” creations must summon individual strengths well beyond their own proportions. While showcasing a stunning steampunk-styled visual brilliance, 9 dynamically explores the will to live, the power of community, and how one soul can change the world. Join Shane Acker, Tim Burton, Timur Bekmambetov, and actors Elijah Wood and Jennifer Connelly LIVE for this panel presentation! Hall H


3:45-5:00 – Sony Pictures Entertainment: Legion and District 9 — Sony Pictures Entertainment and Screen Gems introduce two great new movie projects exclusively to Comic-Con attendees!


Appearing on stage for Legion: Paul Bettany (A Beautiful Mind, The DaVinci Code), Adrianne Palicki (Friday Night Lights, Supernatural), Tyrese Gibson (Transformers, Death Race), Doug Jones (Silver Surfer in Fantastic Four: Rise of the Silver Surfer and Abe Sapien in Hellboy), and director Scott Stewart (helming his first feature film after working on VFX for Sin City, Harry Potter and The Goblet of Fire, and Iron Man, among many others).


Peter Jackson makes his eagerly and long-awaited first visit to Comic-Con to introduce you to the world of District 9, which focuses on a world in which extraterrestrials have become refugees in South Africa. Please join Peter Jackson as he gives fans a first look at scenes from District 9 and takes your questions along with director Neill Blomkamp and star Sharlto Copley. Hall H


4:15-5:15 – Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles — This look at the whole spectrum of the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles (from comics to toys to TV to movies to video games) celebrates the 25th anniversary of the world-famous brand. Moderator Gary Richardson (CEO, Mirage Studios) discusses the evolution of the Turtles with those people instrumental in the characters’ incredible success. Panelists include Kevin Eastman (co-creator of TMNT), Lloyd Goldfine (supervising producer, 4Kids Productions), Steve Barron (director of the original TMNT movie), Karl Aaronian (senior VP of marketing, Giochi Preziosi U.S.A.), Matt Leunig (associate producer, Ubisoft), and Galen Walker (producer of new TMNT movie slated for 2011). Room 6DE


4:30-5:30 – Production Designers — These craftspeople create the physical look for a movie or TV program, be it Star Wars or a talk show. Without the designer, the actors would be performing in empty space. Here a group of these artists at the top of their game talk about the challenges and pleasures of their craft, and answer audience questions. Panelists include Stuart Blatt (Dollhouse), Scott Chambliss (Star Wars), Nathan Crowley (The Dark Knight), and Alex McDowell (Watchmen). Moderating the panel is John Muto (Terminator 2 3D). Room 30AB


5:15-6:15 – Lucasfilm: Star Wars Spectacular — Get all the latest news from the Star Wars universe—including some of Lucasfilm’s most tightly guarded secrets—in an all-new show format! Special guest hosts G4’s Olivia Munn and Kevin Pereira grill a galaxy of guests from The Clone Wars and beyond, including supervising director Dave Filoni, plus voice talent from the show and more! See a live table-read of an exclusive new Clone Wars script—leading directly into the series’ second season! Find out about the worldwide Star Wars Concert Tour, the latest Star Wars games from LucasArts, upcoming DVD (and Blu-ray!) releases and more! And become a part of Star Wars history with your own Saga stories and movie memories! It’s an all-new, interactive Star Wars Spectacular! Hall H


6:30-7:30 Entertainment Weekly: The Visionaries — A discussion with iconic filmmakers James Cameron (Avatar) and Peter Jackson (District 9) on the Future of Film—EW moderates an in-depth conversation with these two cinematic giants about the art of film narrative and how technology and global culture will alter the art of on-screen storytelling in the next 20 years. Hall H


Saturday July 25:
10:00-11:00 – Writers’ Guild Panel: PG-13 Animation — Is animation growing up, or is a PG-13 rating just an excuse for cartoon writers to use bad words and graphically kill off their characters? Alan Burnett (Green Lantern: First Flight), Matt Wayne (Hellboy Animated: Sword of Storms), Michael Jelenic (Wonder Woman), Charles Horn (Robot Chicken), Paul Dini (Return of the Joker), Greg Johnson (The Ultimate Avengers, The Invincible Iron Man, Doctor Strange), and Stan Berkowitz (Justice League: New Frontier, Superman/Batman: Public Enemies) will answer this as well as other, more serious questions about this new genre (if you don’t count 1972’s Fritz the Cat). Spoiler alert: Expect these writers to announce lots of exciting new projects. Room 3


1:30-2:30 – Miramax: Extract — Mike Judge, the creator of such comedy classics as Office Space, Beavis and Butthead and King of the Hill is back with his latest film Extract starring Jason Bateman (Arrested Development), Mila Kunis (Forgetting Sarah Marshall), and Kristen Wiig (Saturday Night Live). Join Judge and his cast for a discussion and first look at scenes from their new film. Hall H


2:45-3:45 – Sony Pictures: Zombieland and 2012 — Sony Pictures previews two exciting new movies at Comic-Con! Zombieland—What if the Zombies won? Columbus (Jesse Eisenberg) has made a habit of running from what scares him. Tallahassee (Woody Harrelson) doesn’t have fears. If he did, he’d kick their ever-living ass. In a world overrun by zombies, these two are perfectly evolved survivors. But now, they’re about to stare down the most terrifying prospect of all: each other. Also starring Emma Stone and Abigal Breslin as two sisters who seem to constantly cause even more trouble for our erstwhile heroes. Appearing on stage: Woody Harrelson, Jesse Eisenberg, Emma Stone, and director Ruben Fleischer.


2012—Director Roland Emmerich has tried to destroy civilization before, but nothing you’ve seen will prepare you for what he has in store for the world in 2012. Never before has a date in history been so significant to so many cultures, so many religions, scientists, and governments. 2012 is an epic adventure about a global cataclysm that brings an end to the world and tells of the heroic struggle of the survivors. Roland will be onstage to reassure us it’s all make-believe… we hope. Hall H


3:30-4:30 – Boondock Saints II: All Saints Day — In the sequel to the cult classic The Boondock Saints, director Troy Duffy brings back Sean Patrick Flanery (Suicide Kings, Powder), Norman Reedus (American Gangster, Blade 2), and Billy Connolly (The Last Samurai) and introduces Carlo Berardinucci, Clifton Collins Jr. (Star Trek, Crank 2) as a new partner-in-crime, and Julie Benz (Rambo, Punisher 2, Saw) as the sexy FBI operative who is hot on their trail. Join Troy and the cast for a panel discussion about the new film and the world premiere of the trailer. Room 6DE


3:30-4:30 – Costume Designers: Designing for Feature Films — Characters created by writers and comic book illustrators are made real for the screen via the artistry of costume designers. Meet the women and men who are the costume designers on this year’s blockbuster films. Panel moderator Susan Nininger, costume designer and board member of the Costume Designers Guild, Local 892, is joined by costume designers Sanja Hays (The Mummy 3: Tomb of the Dragon Emperor), Ellen Mirojnick (G.I. Joe), Mary Vogt (Fantastic Four: Rise of the Silver Surfer), Rita Ryack (Hairspray), and Ha Nguyen (Priest). Room 30AB


4:00-5:00 – Paramount Pictures and Marvel Entertainment: Iron Man 2 — Paramount Pictures and Marvel Entertainment present the sequel to the blockbuster film based on the legendary Marvel superhero Iron Man. Directed by Jon Favreau, Iron Man 2 stars Robert Downey Jr. Joining Downey in the cast are Gwyneth Paltrow, Don Cheadle, Scarlett Johansson, Sam Rockwell, Jon Favreau, Clark Gregg, John Slattery, Mickey Rourke, and Samuel L. Jackson. Hall H


4:30-5:30 – Vanguard Films: Emo Boy — Vanguard Films will announce its slate of new projects including Emo Boy, the big screen adaptation of Stephen Emond’s SLG graphic novel, with a special Q&A with the movie’s director, Kyle Newman (Fanboys). Other projects to be announced include Illegal Aliens, a new graphic novel/movie franchise being produced by Vanguard and Platinum Comics, and Alien Band, an animated feature set to go into production in the fall of 2009. A preview will also be shown from Vanguard’s upcoming film Space Chimps 3D. Room 10


5:15-6:45 – Kevin Smith — Direct from New York City, where he’s directing the new Warner Bros. film A Couple of Dicks starring Bruce Willis, Seann William Scott, and Tracy Morgan, Kevin Smith returns to the Hall H stage for his annual report to the masses. And remember: he flew in just for YOU. Hall H


6:30-7:30 – Black Dynamite — He’s super cool and he knows kung-fu! When “The Man” murders his brother and floods the ghetto with adulterated malt liquor, Black Dynamite is the one hero willing to fight all the way from the blood-soaked city streets to the hallowed halls of the Honky House. Michael Jai White (The Dark Knight) stars as Black Dynamite, a gun toting, nunchuck-wielding ladies’ man and soul brother. Director and writer Scott Sanders (Think as Thieves) is joined by cast members including Arsenio Hall, Tommy Davidson (In Living Color), Byron Minns (Undisputed), Salli Richardson-Whitfield (I Am Legend), moderator Elvis Mitchell, and more! Room 5AB


8:30-12:15 – Watchmen: Director’s Cut — Live with Zack Snyder! Plus Sneak Peek of Batman: Arkham Asylum with Mark Hamill & Kevin Conroy — Get the ultimate inside track on two landmark Warner Bros. releases with the world premiere screening of Watchmen: Director’s Cut and a first-look panel for the breakout Warner Bros. Interactive Entertainment game Batman: Arkham Asylum. The festivities will open with a Batman: Arkham Asylum panel led by the benchmark voices of Batman and the Joker, Kevin Conroy (Batman: The Animated Series) and Mark Hamill (Star Wars), as well as award-winning writer Paul Dini (Batman: The Animated Series). Then Watchmen director Zack Snyder, legendary illustrator Dave Gibbons and actor Jackie Earle Haley discuss the nuances of the film’s Director’s Cut — which hit stores on July 21st. And for the pièce de résistance, Snyder will host a BD Live Community event—providing a real-time, in-person director’s commentary for Comic-Con attendees (and BD Live viewers at home) as the film rolls. Audience members will have the opportunity to ask questions of Snyder via computer kiosks within the room, making for an entirely interactive viewing experience. Room 6BCF


10:00-12:00 – Give ‘Em Hell Malone Screening and Panel — Catch an exclusive early screening of the upcoming noir-action film Give ‘Em Hell Malone, followed by a Q&A with stars Thomas Jane (The Punisher) and Chris Yen, along with director Russell Mulcahy (Highlander) and writer Mark Hosack. Room 6DE


Sunday July 26:
10:30-11:30 – The Art of Adapting Comics to the Screen — Jeff Goldsmith (senior editor for Creative Screenwriting magazine) examines the in-depth process of adapting comic books to the big screen with a stellar panel including David Hayter (Watchmen), Gregory Noveck (Sr. VP of creative affairs, DC Comics), and Josh Olson (A History of Violence). Room 5AB


12:30-1:00 – Roadside Attractions: Mystery Team — They were kid detectives. Now they’re 18 and still solving child crimes. When challenged to solve a murder, the Mystery Team sees an opportunity to prove they’re real detectives. A dark world of drugs, violence, and swear words awaits them. Mystery Team is the first film by popular Internet comedians Derrick Comedy, and at this panel the group—writers/stars Dominic Dierkes, Donald Glover, and DC Pierson, producer Meggie McFadden, and director/editor Dan Eckman—will be on hand to discuss the film, along with a special VIP moderator. The group will also be debuting an all-new Mystery Team short film. Ballroom 20


1:00-1:30 – Overture Pictures: Paper Heart — Despite professing a belief that she’s incapable of love, comedian and actress Charlyne Yi finds herself falling for “Michael Cera,” played by Michael Cera, in this intoxicating mix of documentary, improvisation, and romance. Charlyne Yi, producer/co-writer Nick Jasenovec, and co-star Jake Johnson will be onstage to show clips and pursue the ultimate question: Does true love really exist? Ballroom 20

MOVIEVIRAL’S MAIN VIRAL EVENTS

SHANE ACKER’S 9:

ALL COMIC-CON LONG


ALL DAY- Take a ride on the 9 San Diego Pedicabs and be the first to see exclusive videos and content for 9 when you unlock the QR code. Make sure you find all of them, there are different codes which will unveil unique content, not to be missed! To prep for a QR sighting, text READER to 4FOCUS for instructions on downloading our preferred reader so your phone is QR-ready.


Special Edition Collectible Cards from 9 will be distributed daily throughout the San Diego Gaslamp District. The first 100 people to find the 8 character cards plus 1 exclusive machine card and bring their completed set (9 cards total) to NECA (booth # 4345) will win a guaranteed place in line to receive an autograph by Timur Bekmambetov, Shane Acker, and Elijah Wood. Check out NECA (booth #4345) for the latest 9 & CORALINE. news.


FRIDAY, JULY 24TH
2:30PM- 9 Panel in Hall H with filmmakers Shane Acker, Tim Burton,
3:30PM Timur Bekmambetov and stars Elijah Wood and Jennifer Connelly.
Official Twitter

PETER JACKSON’S DISTRICT 9:



There’s going to be an exclusive fan screening for this film on Thursday July 23 in an undisclosed location in San Diego! I’ll be there.


Also on Friday July 24th:

Peter Jackson makes his eagerly and long-awaited first visit to Comic-Con to introduce you to the world of District 9, which focuses on a world in which extraterrestrials have become refugees in South Africa. Please join Peter Jackson as he gives fans a first look at scenes from District 9 and takes your questions along with director Neill Blomkamp and star Sharlto Copley. Hall H

As confirmed by the D-9 community watch site , this is all correct. If your going to San Diego, don’t forget about this!
Official Twitter

ROLAND EMMERICH’S 2012:

Nick has had an update concerning 2012’s status at Comic Con.


Follow this twitter for more information and updates.

RUBEN FLEISCHER’S ZOMBIELAND:

Zombiewalk in San Diego! Not viral related but still awesome….


Follow theirtwitter for more information on this.


Also:

2:45-3:45 – Sony Pictures: Zombieland and 2012 — Sony Pictures previews two exciting new movies at Comic-Con! Zombieland—What if the Zombies won? Columbus (Jesse Eisenberg) has made a habit of running from what scares him. Tallahassee (Woody Harrelson) doesn’t have fears. If he did, he’d kick their ever-living ass. In a world overrun by zombies, these two are perfectly evolved survivors. But now, they’re about to stare down the most terrifying prospect of all: each other. Also starring Emma Stone and Abigal Breslin as two sisters who seem to constantly cause even more trouble for our erstwhile heroes. Appearing on stage: Woody Harrelson, Jesse Eisenberg, Emma Stone, and director Ruben Fleischer.

Go to this site for more information. The first 150 zombies to check in will receive a FREE Zombieland Comic-Con t-shirt!


Also these films aren’t viral related but they are a must see at this year’s Comic Con:

1. Iron Man 2
2. Avatar
3. GI Joe: Rise Of The Cobra
4. Twilight: New Moon
5. Trick Or Treat
6. The Box
7. Thirst
8. Kick Ass

and many more……


Be sure to follow my Twitter for most up-to-date Comic-Con news. So wish me luck and hopefully we get juicy details on these films.

This film starts with a bang. It never lets you go from start to finish. That’s what great films do. Set in Iraq, this is a story with a message unlike typical Iraq war movies in the past; it’s a story about a company of U.S Army EOD Bomb squad. The hell they have to go through is haunting and captivating. The film starts with a quote i dearly love because it fits with the film:

‘war is a drug’

It truly is for these soldiers. It’s a story of survival and the hunting not being the hunted. A cat and mouse game, making the overall theme of this film tense and suspenseful. The harrowing things these GIs go through are realistic as possible. This might be the most realistic, tense modern war movie since ‘Black Hawk Down’ and it’s the best Iraq war film HANDS DOWN.

There are several well known cameos in this film. One of them is really surprising, but his role is a shocker for sure (i’m not giving out the details). Jeremy Renner is truly the man in this show of men, being a cocky cowboy in the war zone but his attitude pays off throughout the film. The whole cast is excellent, having the chemistry of a disciplined Army squad ready for war. There are some scenes in this film that grip you with your seat, making sure you didn’t s*it yourself. That’s how tense it is. The sound for this film is marvelous, making Marco Beltrami’s score a perfect dose of war and making the overall feeing for this film a helpful cause. The bomb scenes are the best action-played war scenes in cinema. I take this any day than crazy stupid Micheal Bay explosions. Adding in some slow motion was also just right, unlike Zach Snyder’s addiction to that gimmick we all are now tired of.

I respect and credit to Kathryn Bigelow, making this film about the Iraq war or war in general, joining in a genre made by men and an all-male zone in the movie industry. She clearly pulled it off in a nice and great way. Overall this film wasa great war film period and that’s saying something. In this decade of war movies, it’s the second best behind Black Hawk Down but it offers one thing B.H.D didn’t, a psychological view of war and torment, realizing that they way you live, that’s the way you die because, as they say, war is addicting because it’s a drug.

The Hurt Locker is currently showing in these cities: Los Angeles and New York. It will be wide released on July 2009. You can also visit the film’s website here for more details.

Overall MovieViral Rating:

9/10

Posted by David Alexander, follow him on Twitter. New to the site? Check out the About Us page. Register at the MovieViral.com forum, which is located at www.MovieViral.com/forum.

*Photos courtesy of Summit Entertainment.

Rope of Silicon has posted an update of various ratings of upcoming films, one of them is District 9.

Here’s the description of why District 9 is rated R:

Rated R For bloody violence and pervasive language.

Interesting. It may seem those rumors of this film being grittier are coming true. While the PG-13 may have helped in the box office and attracting a more general audience, I think your ‘general audience’ won’t understand this type of a film anyways, if you know what I mean. I fully respect Sony’s stance on this film and it will be turn this film up a notch as not a Sci-Fi doc which has limited violence and representing a National Geographic program but a serious Sci-Fi hardcore film that, in my opinion, will bring in surprises to us and the film world.

Nick Butler, the Editor-in-Chief of MovieViral.com, was interviewed by Chris Lee of the LA Times. The article was concerning the unique viral marketing of District 9 and these ingenious advertisements have created a lot buzz for the film, set to release August 14th. While I think ARG aspect of the viral has been filled with holes, the marketing outside of that is marvelous.

Here are some excerpts from the article (which you can read here) with Nick Butler. He goes in depth about his personal “likes” and “dislikes” of District 9.

“The billboards, benches and websites are a great way to advertise movies, because it gets people talking,” explained Nick Butler, editor in chief of MovieViral.com, which has been following the film’s promotions for nearly a year. “What we see with ‘District 9′ is a combination of real-life experiences mixed in with game experiences that involve websites and Twitter. It is a very successful viral campaign.”

Still, for whatever buzz the campaign has generated, some film fetishists point out the marketing hasn’t been without certain hiccups. Chief beef: Over the course of its 10-month existence, “D9’s” viral has gone dormant for long periods, disheartening self-professed fanboys keeping tabs on the movie’s roll-out. “This viral started in August ‘08, then came an almost nine-month period of no updates,” said movieviral.com’s Butler. “People who follow viral campaigns like I do like to be constantly trying to find something. There always has to be a challenge.”

There is a new pdf memo available at D-9.com including two versions of this document. A non human version and a human version.

Which ever side you choose, you get a blue icon that pops up with a warning sign. It says “Urgent Message. Click Here To View”

You get these windows. It’s interesting that they added a small video of Wikus as a preview from the trailer.
Non-Human version:

Human version:

Here are the pdf memo documents:

Non-Human version:

Human version:

Here are the links to the actual PDF memo documents:
Non-Human version
Human version

There is also a new video on the website, just click on the bright orange blip on the D-9 website (human section)! As of now, the video is not available for embedding, so you’ll have to check the site yourself.

Hopefully this means we will get more updates soon about this film because it needs to pick up the pace. Quickly.

Potential Outbreak is a weekly article of MovieViral concerning “possible” viral marketing of upcoming future films and what these films can use so they can be successful.

Avatar is set to release in late December of this year (2009) but this film still has time to compose a timely and complex ARG/viral. With James Cameron at the helm of this so-called 3-D phenomenon, this thing still has the potential of having an interesting view of the characters, the planets and other materials to build a strong viral marketing base. In addition to the film’s setting in space, the story also has a strong premise behind it too:

Avatar is set during the 22nd century on a small moon called Pandora, which orbits a gas giant, and is inhabited by the tribal Na’vi, ten foot blue humanoids that are peaceful unless attacked. Humans cannot breathe Pandoran air, so they genetically engineer human/Na’vi hybrids known as Avatars that can be controlled via a mental link. A paralyzed Marine named Jake Sully (Sam Worthington) volunteers to exist as an Avatar on Pandora, falling in love with a Na’vi princess and becoming caught up in the conflict between her people and the human military that is consuming their world

This film has awesome viral written all over it because the story has many tools and ideas to play with. I just can imagine many sites featured in this potential viral, especially with Jake Sulley (played by Sam Worthington) being the main focal point of this alternate reality game.

There are many reasons why James Cameron and 20th Century Fox might create a viral for this film. Here are the 3 main reasons why:

1: The Budget

Time Magazine reported back in early March that  Avatar’s current budget is $240 million. How do you make that money back without an emsemble cast or A-list stars in your movie. While relying on it’s never before seen 3-D, amazing effects and James Cameron’s knack for blockbusters, Avatar needs a following to get more people to be interested in this film. The only way possible to do that is by viral marketing, using the internet as a tool for a fanbase or just plain curiousity. It worked with Cloverfield and it can certainly work for this film.

2: Fox needs a breakout film

After various stints for a few years, 20th Century Fox hasn’t had ‘THAT FILM’  with huge box-office numbers or success like Paramount, Sony, Warner Bros and Universal had in these couple of years. Yes, ‘X-Men Origins: Wolverine’ came out and did well at first, but its numbers quickly declined. Not to mention the film was crappy.

3: It’s a  damn Sci-fi film

Avatar is a sci-fi film. With the setting in space including planets, alien creatures, and such, it can lead into a interesting ARG depending on we if get more details at Comic Con by JC. I can really feel that this thing has the potential of Cloverfield or even Star Trek but less complex (duh).

We have to wait and see if James Cameron has in store at Comic Con this summer but i wouldn’t be surprised with the game coming out, that they would join in the viral ranks of promoting this film and attracting people to see it in 3-D.

Empire Magazine has a new interesting interview with District 9 director Neil Blomkamp about details of the film concerning the aliens origins, their technology and look throughout the movie. Here are some excerpts from that interview on Empire Mag…..

The Aliens demeanor:

“These aliens are like ET – if he hijacked your car! Actually they’re not so much malicious as accidentally destructive. I think of them as magpies: they’ll steal something because it’s shiny. But they tear up the city and it makes Joburg’s citizens more and more angry.”

MNU’s role:

“If aliens did arrive here with all crazy technology, the first thing humans would do would be to set up something like MNU to milk them for every last cent.”

Aliens origins:

“It was really fun to come up with a big geek backstory for the aliens. The main thing is that they have a very different society to us. It’s structured like an insect hive. There’s a Queen at the top and drones make up 90% of the population.”

Hardware/Technology:

“They’ve got amazing weapons. We have thousands of pieces of artwork created by the Weta Workshop and 400 are just of the guns. I like the idea of that on their ship they have this mass armoury, stuffed with the most insane weapons we’ve ever seen.”

How they look:

“There is a lot of 80’s-style gore prosthetic work in the movie, but the aliens themselves are generally digital.”

Neil Blomkamp also talked about Peter Jackson’s support of District 9:

“Peter has complete creative control, not the studio, and is like ‘let it be what it is’, so I’m in a very lucky position of being able to make the film I want to make.“

Thanks to Empire Magazine and The Cinema Post.com for the details

Sam Raimi’s Drag Me To Hell is the best horror film I’ve seen in years, adding that campy but fun ride but also including the suspense and scares that will make the audience satisfied after the film is over. After going in with medium-high expectations, ‘Drag Me To Hell’ gave me hope and relief that Hollywood can make good horror films since this decade has been a curse for the horror genre.

The film starts out with a bang involving a child getting involved or interfering with the gypsies jewelry. While stealing the valuables, he starts hearing and seeing things that are beyond this world. He then gets a punishment that would affect his family and ultimately his fate. Years pass after that scary encounter, we are introduced to Christine (played by Alison Lohman), who plays a loan officer. I really thought Christine was great and we, the audience, felt her struggles during the film. After a weird and serious failed meeting with a gypsy lady, she is confronted by her that same night, giving her a curse that will haunt and terrify her throughout the film.

The whole film ravels the idea that a curse can be horrifying and Raimi does his job right with scenes that make you jump and expecting the unknown at every turn. There is also that ‘Evil Dead’ dark humor in this film, which really helped the flick to relieve the intense scenes. Justin Long was the hidden gem, giving a good performance of portraying the character Clay, Christine’s boyfriend. I really thought the whole cast in the film was solid.

The make up effects were top-notch, including the Mrs. Ganush (the gypsy lady) and others. The CGI was felt forced in some scenes of the film but i felt it didn’t bother me to dislike the action. Don’t let the PG-13 rating offend you as a horror fan. It didn’t feel like that the violence was forced at all and certainly don’t be offended of the rating because it doesn’t take away the fun or action of this film.

Overall i felt ‘Drag Me To Hell’ was an overall achievement by Sam Raimi to refresh us of the dying genre of horror in this decade while adding the black humor and action as in the ‘Evil Dead’ series. Throughout the film, i had a fun and twisted ride, including my audience. This film is what horror films are meant to do, hold you tight and expect the unexpected. The ending of this film will leave you with speculation and excitement of what a Raimi horror film can deliver.

Overall MovieViral rating:
8.5./10

Photos Courtesy of Universal Pictures

The End Begins. That is the tag line of this film, directed by McG, starring Christian Bale and Sam Worthington. While the film critics may be ripping this film apart, they are not looking at the bigger picture of what yet can come. While this film disappoints, in many ways it delivered a message of hope and revision for this classic franchise.

Read the rest of the review after the jump.
Read the rest of this entry »

MovieViral doesn’t really bring up breaking movie news but District 9 has been our huge hook for the year, since Nick posts these updates at our sister website District 9 News.

Yahoo Movies has officially released the first District 9 teaser poster! I really think the poster is great, especially showing how humans don’t want the alien’s presence i.e “You Are Not Welcome Here” quote.

Photo courtesy of Sony Pictures