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Tag: Stranger Things

San Diego Comic-Con 2025, Julien’s Star Wars Auction, Predator: Badlands, Stern Pinball, The Toxic Avenger, Tron: Ares and MORE – Get Ready For The Storm!
Image courtesy Comic-Con International

Hello, fellow Comic-Con attendees!

We are just days away from San Diego Comic-Con 2025! This year is a bit less chaotic than last year’s event, with no major Marvel movie screening like the one the previous year featuring Deadpool & Wolverine. Still, there are always fun things to see and do during the con, both inside and outside the convention center. This year seems to have more anime and games featured. We have not seen that since the writers and actors’ strike in 2023. Some major studios might not have panels this year, but that doesn’t mean their presence will be absent at the Con. Luckily, Hall H will host some great panels on Friday, although there will be very few on Saturday, which is unusual since both days tend to be the busiest.

Image courtesy Kenn of TeamWHR

The Comic-Con Museum also features historic Star Wars movie items from Star Wars: Echoes from the Galaxy. All of the fabulous items up for sale are being done by the legendary Julien’s Auction House.

Visitors can tour the museum located in nearby historic Balboa Park, only a short distance from the convention center to see some of the historic items up for sale before the auction that will be conducted on Sunday July 27, 2025.

Image courtesy Lucas Museum of Narrative Art

This year is historic, as the legendary George Lucas will make his Comic-Con debut with a panel discussing his new Lucas Museum of Narrative Art. The panel will be moderated by Queen Latifah a legend in her own right. I do not doubt that with George Lucas present, Hall H will be even more crowded. The auction will be held at the museum on the last day of the con, Sunday, July 27th, at 10:00 am. Happy bidding!

Image courtesy Troma

Thursday, Day One of the convention, kicks off with ‘Percy Jackson and the Olympians’ opening the Hall H panel in style, followed by a panel featuring two major comedians, Gabriel Iglesias and Jo Koy. This might be the first time comedians host their own panel at Comic-Con.

One panel I am especially excited about is ‘The Toxic Avenger’ with Peter Dinklage. It will be great to see Dinklage back in Hall H, especially since he usually appeared there for the Game of Thrones panels in earlier years.
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Image courtesy Stern Pinball

Another exciting event at the convention is that Stern Pinball is bringing its new machine to the convention. This year marks the 50th anniversary of the iconic shark movie that started it all… JAWS. Stern Pinball is riding that wave and unveiling its JAWS-inspired machine.

Their Stern pinball machines are fantastic and feature some legendary franchises, such as John Wick, James Bond, and The Mandalorian as well as rock and roll icons like Rush and Metallica. They also have their convention room at the Marriott Marquis, where you can try out some of their featured games. I plan to try my luck with the new JAWS machine and will give a report.
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Image courtesy 20th Century Studios

I and everyone I know was eagerly hoping for a ‘The Fantastic Four: First Steps‘ panel in Hall H since the movie opens on July 25th, but unfortunately, there will be no Marvel panels this year.

I think the chaos that resulted from the ‘Deadpool and Wolverine’ surprise panel premiere last year at led Comic-Con International and Marvel Studios to decide against a special screening of Fantastic Four: First Steps at this years legendary pop culture convention.
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Image courtesy Disney Studios

Friday at San Diego Comic-Con in Hall H starts with ‘Outlander‘ and its spinoff ‘Outlander: Blood of My Blood,’ followed by ‘Alien: Earth,’ the Stephen King movie ‘The Long Walk,’ ‘Predator: Badlands‘ which has been moved up a month to November 7, 2025 from it’s original December release.

Friday in Hall H concludes with the exciting long anticipated return of Disney Studios Tron franchise starring Jeff Bridges as the fabled Kevin Flynn. I for one am looking forward to the ‘Tron: Ares‘ panel!
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Image courtesy Sparke Films

If Hall H is not an option for you this year, there are still plenty of other fun panels to check out.

Some highlights include the exciting ‘Primitive War‘ set in Vietnam 1968 where a United States recon unit known as Vulture Squad is sent to an isolated jungle valley to uncover the fate of a missing Green Beret platoon. The group soon discover they are not alone.

The Primitive War panel is being presented in second largest venue, Ballroom 20. Featured stars include Ryan Kwanten, Tricia Helfer, and Jeremy Piven.

Also returning to the con is ‘Dexter: Resurrection‘ with Michael C. Hall and the cast, moderated by Jamie Chung.

Friday is always busy, with most panels taking place in the three main spots: Hall H, Ballroom 20, or the Indigo Ballroom at the Hilton Bayfront. Whatever you choose to do during the convention, plan accordingly, as most panels overlap and it can be challenging to see everything you want.
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Image courtesy FX Networks (Click to learn more)
If you don’t have a badge for Comic-Con, don’t worry – you can still enjoy plenty of activities. Every year, Petco Park hosts a variety of exciting attractions. This year’s setup at Petco Park features a gritty underground Gotham City. Adult Swim, Abbott Elementary, will each have installations outside the convention. Most exiting is he soon to be released Alien Earth that will feature an immersive experience known as “The Wreckage” outside the Hilton Bay Front Hotel Thursday through Sunday.

Image courtesy Malibu Barbie Cafe. Click to make reservations

The Gaslamp restaurants will also showcase installations and offer fun food options and swag for fans. Paramount is bringing back “The Lodge”. Fans of Barbie can wear roller skates and roll around the Malibu Barbie Café. Peacock’s Twisted Metal is offering a “Bumper Battle” experience at San Diego Comic-Con. This interactive event allows fans to step into a post-apocalyptic world and participate in a bumper car tournament inspired by the show. Please note that since these activation’s don’t require a badge, lines may be long. It’s a good idea to check wait times on social media.

Image courtesy Netflix

With Warner Bros., Fox Studios, Disney, and Netflix not having panels this year, the panel rooms might be quieter, but that could mean more time for everyone on the convention floor. I am surprised that Stranger Things doesn’t have a panel this year, given that it is their final year, and it has always been a convention favorite. It’s always interesting to see which major series will and won’t be featured at Comic-Con when the schedule is released. I know everyone has their favorites, and it can be challenging, but it’s always fun regardless of the choices.

Image by Kenn of WormholeRiders TeamWHR

One thing that will always remain a staple at Comic-Con is the comics and the artists. No matter where you turn on the convention center floor, you will always see lots of vendors selling comic books or their original art. Take a stroll through Artists’ Alley and discover the amazing art showcased every day. Support these incredible independent artists, whether it’s by buying a sticker or original artwork. Another great way to support these artists is by sharing their content on all your social media platforms. After all, comic books were the original reason why Comic-Con started over 50 years ago.

As I finish this post and get ready for an exciting adventure, I want to remind all fans to support local comic book shops, local artists to keep pop culture, movies, and TV series alive! Importantly, stay hydrated, wear sunscreen, comfortable shoes, pack snacks, and grab as much swag as you can. Bring your enthusiasm! See you soon in San Diego!

Thanks to Kenn for video and image embedding for my feature article and many thanks to you for visiting WormholeRiders News Agency. I will be back reporting with new information as Team WHR heads to San Diego Comic-Con 2025!

Please feel free to leave a comment here or If you prefer, you may also click the social media icons below to share this news article or as many of our readers and visitors often do, visit me on Twitter by clicking the links or images avatars in this news story.

See You on The Other Side!

Until next time,

Regards,

Lori
July 21, 2025
What Does It All Mean? – Netflix – Apple TV – AMC – Peacock Streaming Bundles and What Happened to Network TV Original Science Fiction Content Like Stargate?
Fellow Science Fiction Television Series Enthusiasts,

Images courtesy Netflix and Apple TV

Have you ever pondered the fate of science fiction TV shows on regular television networks? Streaming has now become the preferred mode of consumption. In the past, we enjoyed shows like Star Trek, the original Battlestar Galactica, Buck Rogers in the 25th Century, Lost in Space, and Land of the Lost, all broadcast on network television. While it was delightful to tune in on a specific day of the week to catch our favorite science fiction stories, this is apparently nearly no more as TeamWHR reported recently.

Streaming giants like Apple TV+, Peacock, and Netflix are now leading the way in offering science fiction shows to fans. It is a fact that the number of science fiction shows pales in comparison to the abundance of cop, doctor, and reality shows that have long dominated streaming apps. These shows have always been the norm for network television, making it a tough environment for new scripted science fiction shows to break through. Even when we do get a new science fiction show, it often struggles to gain the same popularity as the more generic, cookie-cutter shows. In this article we will discuss our favorite streaming series with a fond look back at the good old days of science fiction on network television in the United States.

Image courtesy Warner Brothers Television

Shows like Fringe, Farscape, and Firefly were captivating science fiction series that garnered devoted followers but faced challenges due to their ratings. Despite their compelling storylines and high production values, these shows struggled to capture a broader audience. Audiences were primarily familiar with the iconic franchises of Star Trek on television and Star Wars in film. As a result, other science fiction shows found it challenging to resonate with viewers beyond the established realms of these two celebrated series.

Image courtesy SYFY

The rise of streaming services has brought about significant changes for science fiction scripted shows. Once exclusive to regular television networks, these shows now have a new home on popular streaming platforms like Netflix and Apple TV. This shift has led to increased budgets and more compelling story lines for us, that science fiction series enthusiasts enjoy. With tech giants entering the arena, the genre is experiencing a revival. Despite the occasional unsuccessful endeavor, the future of SciFi on streaming platforms looks promising, and we can look forward to more innovative and captivating shows in the years to come:

Netflix:

Image courtesy Netflix

This streaming service had been late to the game to produce original science fiction series. This was a result of focusing on movies and licensing content from other entertainment studios. Additionally, Netflix mistakes were often caused by poor choices in producing questionable political propaganda programs that turned off viewers.

Netflix wisely changed their offerings beginning in 2016 to produce Stranger Things that has particularly captivated audiences and is set to enter its fifth and final season in 2025.

Stranger Things stars Millie Bobby Brown, Winona Ryder, Paul Reiser, Finn Wolfhard with a strong supporting ensemble cast including Sean Astin. Stranger Things is one of the lucky series that have survived the dreaded wave of cancellations recently affecting many science fiction genre shows on network television.
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Image courtesy Warner Brothers Television

Original high quality science fiction series have been rare, with many current shows adaptations of existing source material. A standout in the genre was Fringe, which brought a fresh and original concept to the screen. While it explored familiar science fiction themes, it added a darker twist and more profound meaning, setting it apart from its counterparts. Despite facing challenges in its final seasons, dedicated fans rallied to secure a short final season, highlighting the immense impact of fans on the success of the scripted science fiction series. This rarity of original content makes us appreciate the unique and innovative nature of science fiction television shows.

Image courtesy Amazon MGM Studios

Scripted science fiction series often face a challenge in presenting original story lines, making it a rare occurrence. While many fans gravitate towards common themes in these shows, deviating from the norm can lead to uncertainty among the general television audience. When a science fiction show gets canceled by a network, it usually spells the end of the series. However, the rise of streaming platforms and vocal fan bases has changed this narrative.

Shows like The Expanse have been able to find a new lease on life, with the opportunity to be revived and complete their final seasons. This was evident when The Expanse, initially canceled by the SYFY network, was later revived by Amazon MGM Studios on Prime Video highlighting the power of dedicated fans and streaming services. This empowerment of the audience is a significant shift in the fate of scripted science fiction shows.

AMC:

Image courtesy AMC TV

Snowpiercer stars Daveed Diggs, Alison Wright, Iddo Goldberg and Jennifer Connelly originally airing on TNT, will be revived on AMC and AMC+ a streaming service. After being canceled for financial reasons, it has been saved and given a second chance at AMC.

The show will begin its fourth season soon, which is exciting news for existing fans and potential new ones. It is noteworthy that Snowpiercer is based on a movie from 2013 with the same name starring Chris Evans, Jamie Bell, Tilda Swinton and Ed Harris.
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Orphan Black Echoes:

Image courtesy AMC Studios

Produced by AMC TV Studios, this series is seen on AMC and AMC+ in the United States. Created by Anna Fishko with episodes directed by John Fawcett, Orphan Black Echoes is a spin off of the original Orphan Black (2013-2017) that Fawcett also directed. This superb new series featured on AMC, Orphan Black Echoes, follows a cloned woman and the women she encounters as they weave their way into each other’s lives and embark on a thrilling journey to determine the mystery of their identities. Starring Krysten Ritter, Keeley Hawes, Amanda Fix, Avan Jogia and featuring a stellar supporting cast, based in part on the hit series Orphan Black starring Tatiana Maslany who is featured in a photograph during the pilot episode of Orphan Black Echoes.
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Image courtesy Amazon MGM Studios

There is a beloved series that fans have been eagerly hoping to see revived – Stargate SG-1. With a massive fan base and a history of rumors about its return to television, the time seems ripe for Stargate’s comeback. With the proliferation of streaming platforms, there is a real opportunity for Stargate to make a triumphant return.

Given its well-established fan base spanning decades, there’s little doubt that Stargate would face challenges in its revival in 2018 with a streaming series named Stargate Origins. It seems like we are in a waiting game now, anticipating the moment when Stargate will finally make its comeback. This potential for revival with an announcement expected soon, hopefully at San Diego Comic-Con 2024 giving us hope for the future of science fiction shows on streaming service networks.
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Peacock:

Image courtesy XFinity NBC Comcast

Xfinity (owned by NBC Comcast) has created an exciting new streaming bundle called “Xfinity Streamsaver” that includes entertainment content from Apple TV, Netflix, Peacock and hopefully other streamers such as Paramount Plus and AMC+.

This means that fans of each platform have a fantastic opportunity to explore various series across the streaming world if they have an Xfinity account.

The new streaming bundle allows viewer users to discover new shows they may not have encountered before or have not had the chance to watch.

Apple TV:

Image courtesy Apple TV

A noteworthy streaming service provider is Apple TV who has created several original scripted science fiction series. One such series is Monarch: Legacy of Monsters, developed by Matt Fraction and Chris Black. The series features talented actors such as Anna Sawai, Ren Watabe, Kurt Russell, and Wyatt Russell. Following the massive success of Godzilla Minus One, “Monarch is set after the battle between Godzilla and the Titans. It reveals that monsters are real and follows one family’s journey to uncover its buried secrets and a legacy linking them to Monarch.” The first season is worth watching, mainly if you are a Godzilla fan. The success of this series raises hope for the possibility of more Monsterverse original content.
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Image courtesy Apple TV

A recent hit, Dark Matter, not to be confused with Dark Matter (2015-2017) on SYFY, has taken the science fiction world by storm. The captivating SciFi series Dark Matter can be found on Apple TV and was brought to life by creator Blake Crouch, adapted from his novel. The show stars an incredible cast, including Joel Edgerton, Jennifer Connelly, Alice Braga, and Jimmi Simpson.

The story line follows a “physicist in Chicago who finds himself thrust into a parallel version of his own life. He faces the daunting task of fighting to regain his original life and prevent an alternate version of himself from taking over his family.” Since Dark Matter is a standalone story, Apple TV has not announced whether the series will continue. This may be an opportunity to explore the narrative further with an original concept.
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Silo:

Image courtesy Apple TV

Another hit streaming series on Apple TV is Silo created by Graham Yost. Silo is based on the novel “Wool” by Hugh Howey that is set in a bleak dystopian future where humanity clings to survival deep underground within the confines of a colossal silo.

Starring Rebecca Ferguson as Juliette Nichols, Common as Robert Sims, Tim Robbins as Bernard Holland and Harriet Walter as Martha Walker. In the story arc of season one viewers find Juliette, an engineer tasked with unraveling the mystery behind the death of a colleague uncovering startling secrets that threaten the very fabric of their enclosed world which if larger than it seems!
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Image courtesy Tubi

Regardless of what happens with any of the current scripted science fiction series we have discussed available on streaming services, there is no doubt that the science fiction genre will continue to thrive including on the streaming service Tubi venturing into original content with ads. Let us hope platforms like Tubi will be at the forefront of new and original content.

I hope that as streaming platforms bundle together, we will see an increase in original content. I am hopeful that the mega studios, with their combined power, will recognize the value of original content. As fans, we deserve it. While we enjoy spinoffs and video game adaptations, original content is always the best source of entertainment. I hope the studios allow proven writers to shine again with original stories.

Well, science fiction series fans keep watching those fantastic shows, and someday we will get the new Stargate series that everyone has been longing for!

Thanks to Kenn for video and image embedding for my Turner Classic Movies Film Festival feature article and many thanks to you for visiting WormholeRiders News Agency. I will be back in the near future with new analysis as Team WHR prepares for San Diego Comic-Con 2024!

Please feel free to leave a comment here or If you prefer, you may also click the social media icons below to share this news article or as many of our readers and visitors often do, visit me on Twitter by clicking the links or images avatars in this news story.

See You on The Other Side!

Until next time,

Regards,

Lori
July 2, 2024
Stern Pinball – Making Your Pop Culture Dreams Come True at SDCC 2022!
Hello, My Fellow WormholeRiders Pinball Enthusiasts!

Image courtesy Comic-Con International

With Comic-Con 2022 firmly in the past and me fully recovered from the whirlwind again, I begin my coverage of the Pop-Culture event that returned for the first time in three years when I had the exquisite pleasure of interviewing Jody Dankberg, Senior Director of Licensing and New Business Development of Stern Pinball for Team WHR on July 21, 2022. And what a wonderful Pin-Ball gaming experience it was!

As a child of the 80s, video games and pinball were a staple at the local arcade. I was one of those awkward kids that used to stand for hours and pump quarters into the pinball machines, trying to hit that top score and add your name to the list of legends already there. I have always been a huge fan of pinball, so when the opportunity arose to interview Jody, I jumped at the chance. I include a video sample of the great Stern Pinball games below for your enjoyment.
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Image by Lori Glumac for WormholeRiders News Agency

Stern Pinball specializes in unique and pop culture pinball machines. From classic tv shows and movies like Batman ‘66, Star Trek and The Munsters to ones from music icons such as Rolling Stones, AC/DC and Kiss.

It was so cool to see all the literal bells and whistles that these games come with. The way the player can be interactive with the game is incredible. Just looking at all the cool hidden gems that are part of each game is really a treat for those of us that remember the shows or movies.

The newest Stern Pinball editions are Led Zeppelin and Rush, complete with flashing lights and symbols from their most famous songs. Here in my hometown of San Francisco there are a multitude of bars and arcades that feature many of the incredible games from Stern. We include the the Stern Pinball Rush Edition video below for your enjoyment.
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Image by Lori Glumac for WormholeRiders News Agency

One of the places I have gone to several times is the Emporium, an arcade and bar that features several of these games. I have had the pleasure of playing these incredibly fun games and it is not easy. Pinball requires good hand eye coordination. You must make sure to hit those targets and make the bells ring. Some games, like Stranger Things (video included below), you must get the ball in the Demogorgon’s mouth, no easy task. You get three tries and if not, well then back to the upside down it goes.

Speaking with Jody, who is a guru of pinball, I learned a little more about what pinball is and why it has always been such a fun game to play. There will be an exciting announcement of new games in the Fall and toward Christmas.

My first question to him is why is pinball so popular? His answer was that his “objective was when he became a part of the company 13 years ago that he turns pinball into the popular game it once was” (and frankly in my opinion always has been). There is “such a high demand now for games not only from the core customers but so many casual folks, families, younger fans and even little kids.” He mentioned the folks at The Emporium who are great friends of Stern and from Chicago as well. Their pinball machines are also demanded in places like Nashville and Las Vegas. “They are giving you entertainment and nostalgia; the nostalgia brings you in” Jody had said about why these machines are played more. “It is something, social, it is something fun, it gets you out, it also brings people together. It can be something you do by yourself…” to me this is another reason pinball is so vital to the gaming community.

Image by Lori Glumac for WormholeRiders News Agency

Stern Pinball has a program call the Stern Heads-Up Pinball Invitational which is a competitive show that is available to watch on YouTube for the competitive pinball players. He mentioned that there is the Godzilla pinball being released very soon. There were two rooms dedicated to these incredible pinball machines at the Marriott Marquis. Entering the room was fun and all you could see were the fans playing the machines like Deadpool, Jurassic Park and one of the newest music ones Rush. There was a big Godzilla figure in the room as the hint of what is to come from Stern.

Being a global company that ships all over the world, “when we obtain a license, it must be known all over the world, everywhere. From Australia, to here in the States, to Europe, South America.” Jody stressed that the license being global and widely known makes for a good game. With games like The Mandalorian (video below) with a small Grogu and his force wielding powers or Godzilla there are good guys and bad guys, battles, etc., which makes for a fun game. You want to combine a really A+ title, with fun and that is a winning success. The do have different genres as well, sci-fi, music, retro, tv shows, cultural zeitgeist such as The Walking Dead, Game of Thrones, Stranger Things. He mentioned that he is always thinking about what the next one is. He had mentioned the television show The Boys, who knows that will be in the works soon, fingers crossed.
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Image by Lori Glumac for WormholeRiders News Agency

When I asked Jody what his favorite pinball machine was growing up, he mentioned that his grandfather owned an arcade (how perfect) in Tucson, Arizona and he would spend a lot of time there when he was little. He remembers that when nighttime came the older kids would come in, “with their mustaches and long hair, smoking cigarettes,” they would play the pinball machines. He did mention some of the older games that he wished he were exposed to like Flash Gordon, because he loved that movie (I mean who does not love it?). For the time, the Flash Gordon game was an innovative, neat game to have around, made cool sounds and was just very nostalgic for him. I can totally relate to what Jody is saying, it is those nostalgic games, movies, television shows that need to be revived for the simple fact that they will always be cool. It is also another way for the current generation to be exposed to those iconic movies, shows and pop culture of that era. He mentioned that one game he would love to have been the Robocop game. There is one at Logan Arcade in Chicago, so if you are in the Chicago area and want to experience what it is like to be Robocop, stop on by.

I asked Jody out of the current ones that are out right now which one is his favorite. He mentioned that he “comes from the music business and my heart and soul is really into music” two bands he mentioned were Iron Maiden and Metallica. Between those two powerhouse mega metal groups Metallica is his favorite. The music inspired games from Led Zeppelin and Rush, two of the most iconic and beloved bands in the world, held a bit of fond memories for him. Jody remembers his father showing him those albums and listening to the music while sitting on the floor of his home, and now he gets to collaborate with them, talk about dream come true!
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My last question was a bit of a mystery, and I am okay with that. I asked him what would be his “dream themed game.” He said that “people that know me, know the answer to that question, he couldn’t reveal the answer” because well…I will leave it at that. They are working on his dream theme; he could only tell me that it is retro and something from his childhood. I am looking forward to seeing what incredible theme Stern has coming down the pipeline. It is something “dear to his heart, he is really excited about it,” since Jody and I are of the same generation, I am also excited to see what that new dream theme machine that is coming.

This interview was so much fun, and I learned a lot about a game that I grew up with and dearly love. I want to thank Jody Dankberg and Stern Pinball for giving me this very cool and fun interview to start off my Comic-Con 2022 adventure. Please support your local arcades and check out Stern’s Youtube Channel or web site by clicking their banner above to find these incredible games near you!

Thanks to Kenn for video and image embedding for my feature article and many thanks to you for visiting WormholeRiders News Agency. We will be back soon with more analysis about our favorite television series, movies and conventions in this year and beyond!

Please feel free to leave a comment here or If you prefer, you may also click the social media icons below to share this news article or as many of our readers and visitors often do, visit me on Twitter by clicking the links or images avatars in this news story.

See You on The Other Side!

Until next time,

Regards,

Lori
August 6, 2022
San Diego Comic-Con 2022 – It’s Finally Here and I Am So Excited!
Hello my fellow Comic-Con nerds from around the world!

Image courtesy Comic-Con International

It is FINALLY here; we are just four days (as of this post) away from San Diego Comic-Con 2022 in person. That’s right, in person! Team WHR and our many friends will roam the corridors and beloved halls at the San Diego Convention Center once again. It has been three long years since we were able to walk those hallowed halls. I am very excited to be back; there will still be COVID protocols, and some of the significant displays won’t be down there. However, that is okay; we will survive!

Image courtesy Paramount Pictures

Let’s start with the first day of Comic-Con, July 21, 2022. Some great panels are happening on this day. To start, the mega Hall H program is Dungeons & Dragons: Honor Among Thieves. No word on what cast members will be in attendance, but it does have a pretty impressive cast, Chris Pine, Hugh Grant, Rege-Jean Page, and Michelle Rodriguez. I am not a D&D player, but I can appreciate all those who do. I also understand it because of my love for Stranger Things and how it uses D&D throughout the series.
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Image courtesy The Cannon Group

The mega Hall H has some great panels for this year’s con. It always does and becomes the most sought-after ticket (wristband) in town. Thursday will also give us Masters of the Universe: 40 Years will be gracing us with the power of Grayskull! I am excited about that panel because I watched that cartoon when I was younger, and the 1987 movie starring the incomparable Dolph Lundgren who is one of my all-time favorite cult movies. Dolph is also going to be there, according to his social media account.

Image courtesy Disney Plus

Moving onto Ballroom 20, the little sister of Hall H will also feature an array of panels. Most of the featured panels are the upcoming big, hopefully, blockbuster series or movies starting in the fall. The Disney+ series National Treasure: Edge of History is “an expansion of the hit film franchise” that originally starred Nicolas Cage (who is not announced as returning to the series) and Justin Bartha who is returning as the much loved character Riley Poole. The series cast of Lisette Olivera, Jake Austin Walker, and Lyndon Smith will be appearing at the panel. The new Apple + series Severance, directed by Ben Stiller, will also be featured. I have not seen the series but have heard incredible things about it.
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Image courtesy Salvage Marines

Comic-Con is not only about the big blockbuster, mega movies, or series; it also showcases smaller series or comics that are not as well-known but are certainly not less loved. For example, there is a panel about Godzilla from Toho Studios that I would love to see or the thirtieth anniversary of Spawn. The smaller rooms make it easier to see your favorite stars up close as they do not hold as many as the two mega halls. One of the long waited such jewels is Casper Van Dien from Starship Troopers who will headline a panel for his new streaming series, Salvage Marines. I have always been a big fan of his. This wonderful panel will be in the more intimate Room 7ABC in the main convention center featuring Jennifer Wenger, Peter Shinkoda, Kevin Porter, Shane Graham, and Linara Washington. Team WHR suggests you stop by to see him and the cast of this fun new series!
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Image courtesy Disney Star Wars

If you ever found yourself without a ticket to Comic-Con, you can still have fun. There are many off-sites at the back of the Convention Center and across from Petco Park. The Gaslamp is also always festive, with themed restaurants and interactive booths. It is also fun to see all the people dressed in costumes. That is one of my favorite parts of being at Comic-con, seeing all the fantastic, creative, bizarre, obscure costumes people have come up with. I am sure that with the pandemic, people have been able to work on and perfect their ensembles much more. I do not doubt that I will be seeing a horde of The Mandalorian and Grogu floating around.

Image courtesy Amazon Studios

Friday and Saturday are always the most prominent days at Comic-Con, not only for the fabled Hall H, but in general across SDCC 2022. Most people come those days because they know the BIG panels happen then. Lord of the Rings: Rings of Power, the prequel to The Lord of the Rings, will be in Hall H on Friday. The Walking Dead and Tales of the Walking Dead, Keanu Reeves’ BRZRKR: The Immortal Saga Continues are the big ones that people will be camping out for to get into Hall H.
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Image courtesy AMC

Saturday has Warner Brothers and Marvel Studios panels and one of my favorites, the new AMC series Interview with the Vampire based on Anne Rice’s beloved book.

Another is House of Dragon, the prequel to the popular series Game of Thrones. The significant draw will be Dwayne Johnson bringing the much-anticipated superhero film Black Adam with him. As a result, I will most likely spend most of my day in Hall H on Saturday July 23, 2022!
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Image courtesy FX Networks

With Sunday rounding out that incredible weekend, one of my favorite series will be back again for the third time, Mayans MC will bring most of the cast with them, and I feel a special announcement on whether we will get a fifth season. Another favorite FX Networks series is What We Do in the Shadows which will follow the Mayans MC panel. I am happy to see it is back, and in the mega Hall H, it deserves all the praise. Sundays are also great for getting those last-minute items you have been eyeing all week. Vendors are usually much better with bargains on Sunday so go haggle your heart out.

Image by WormholeRiders News Agency

I am surprised that a few of the staples typically at Comic-Con won’t be coming this year. For example, there is no Stranger Things panel, Cobra Kai, or The Witcher panel. I think that many studios are not going to risk their talent getting sick, especially if they are in the middle of, or just starting to shoot again. Even though those shows will not be there, there are plenty of other things to keep attendees occupied. Warner Brothers and Fox will not have big booths or signings this year. I am okay with that because it tends to make everything bottleneck and cause more chaos than the vendors room floor already has. I am sure that by 2023 everything will be back to normal, and we can partake in Comic-Con the way we always have in the past.

Well, my friends, that is all for now! The next time you hear from Team WHR, it will be from the convention itself! My excitement is getting more and more as each day comes closer to preview night! Stay tuned for my reviews and pictures from the SDCC 2022!

Thanks to Kenn for video and image embedding for my feature article and many thanks to you for visiting WormholeRiders News Agency. We will be back soon with more analysis about our favorite television series, movies and conventions in this year and beyond!

Please feel free to leave a comment here or If you prefer, you may also click the social media icons below to share this news article or as many of our readers and visitors often do, visit me on Twitter by clicking the links or images avatars in this news story.

See You on The Other Side!

Until next time,

Regards,

Lori
July 16, 2022
Mayans M.C.- A Whole New World on Two Wheels!

Hello my fellow Mayans M.C. fans!

Image courtesy FX Networks Mayans M.C.

Season 1 may be over, but the anticipation is still very much alive for Season 2!

I first heard about Mayans M.C. last year when rumors were circulating that there was a spin-off of the iconic and sacred (to most) Sons of Anarchy. I was a fan of SOA in as much as I caught a few seasons here and there, but I wasn’t a regular viewer of the show. Not that I didn’t like it, just time and work prevented me from getting caught up enough.

Usually spin-offs of highly popular shows don’t do well with fans or ratings. Mayans, however proved that point wrong. It was every bit as good as SOA, although definitely different as well.

That is why I love it, is because although there are a few of the characters that show up from SOA, the main focus is the Mayans. There is definitely another cultural difference as well, which is great to see on a network like FX.

SDCC 2018 Mayans M.C. Panel

Flashback to San Diego Comic-Con 2018 when Mayans M.C. was featured in its very first panel before the season aired in September. It was in the megalithic Hall H which has a reputation for having the likes of The Walking Dead, Game of Thrones, Stranger Things just to name a few whom have graced its hallowed halls.

To present brand new show that has not even aired yet, of a spin off to a HUGELY popular show was risky, but Kurt Sutter is one to take risks and as luck would have it, it paid off. See for yourself in an FX Networks video clip from SDCC 2018 clip we include below.

Image joint copyright Lori Glumac and WormholeRiders

The really great thing about Mayans is the all Latino (except for one cast member) cast. As much as television claims to be “diverse” it really isn’t. To see a few named actors be a part of this show, too, was a real treat. One of those actors (who happens to be a favorite of mine) is Edward James Olmos.

Growing up I remember watching him on Miami Vice (1984) as Martin Castillo (for which he won an Emmy). Danny Pino, who has worked with Kurt Sutter before on (in my opinion) one of the greatest cop shows of all time, The Shield, but we also know him from Law & Order: SVU and Tony Plana, veteran actor of both stage and screen. The only non-Latino cast member is Sarah Bolger, from Once Upon A Time, who holds her own very well against these great men and is the only other female regular cast member on the show.

Image joint copyright Lori Glumac and WormholeRiders

The great thing as well about new shows is introducing fans to new actors. One such is JD Pardo who plays EZ Reyes on Mayans. Now, this was the first time I had ever heard of JD, and once I saw him (he’s very easy on the eyes) in the show I became an instant, life-long fan.

When I see an actor that really piques my interest, I find everything they are in and watch it all. With JD, I was pleasantly surprised to see his work has been acclaimed for a while. I was happy to discover a series he was in on Hulu called East Los High (for which he was nominated for a Daytime Emmy). He was really great in that show and I do recommend it.

JD was also in two sci-fi shows, Revolution and The Messengers (both short seasons, but worth watching). He brings so much depth and range to his character on Mayans and I am so looking forward to the new season.

Image copyright link back courtesy Shutter Shock

Another actor that literally floored me is Richard Cabral. I first saw him in the first season of the series Lethal Weapon. He made such an impact that when I heard he was in Mayans, I was ecstatic. He is astonishing in Mayans (and pretty much anything else he is in), as his character Johnny ‘Coco’ Cruz with his signature catch phrase of “My Bad”. His character and the arc he goes through is what makes Mayans such an interesting show. The depth he shows is tremendous, in all the scenes he’s in. You cannot take your eyes off him, and it isn’t because of all the tattoos he has or his unique face, but by the sheer brilliance of his craft. He is what we directors call an absolute dream actor, such range and power that all you have to do is give him words to say and watch it all just happen. And I guarantee you will be floored by the end.

Image copyright link back courtesy Shutter Shock

Being the veteran of the cast, Olmos brings his intensity to his character with the ease he has always made it look. His character of Felipe Reyes is nuanced and subtle but powerful. The way Olmos plays him is quiet, but you can feel that intensity radiate off the screen. His character is multi layered and has many secrets and we get to see how that slowly reveals itself throughout the series. Olmos doesn’t overact those parts, he flows through them with perfect emotion and leaves you breathless in the intense scenes.

My favorite scenes are between Olmos and Pardo as they play out their father/son dynamic. Not only is it two great actors acting in those scenes together, but a father and son finding their relationship again after unfortunate circumstances kept them apart. They both bring their A game to every scene they are in and it shows 100% in all their shared scenes.

Image copyright link back courtesy Shutter Shock

Sarah Bolger is really great in the series too!

Sarah brings a whole different dynamic to the scintillating series. Her character is another one to watch as her character arc changes over the course of the hit Mayans M.C. series.

How she plays Emily Thomas is really wonderful. While Sarah displays her vulnerability, with a bit of naïveté, there is also also a fiery, smart, skillful piece of a complicated puzzle revealed in Sarah’s portrayal of the Emily character.

Sarah Bolger – Image courtesy Kurt Sutter

The scenes between Sarah and JD are filled with sublime morsels for us to sink our teeth into.

The journey they both take individually and separately is one I am looking forward to in Season 2 of Mayans M.C..

SDCC 2018 Kurt Sutter – Image courtesy Kurt Sutter

Kurt Sutter, the genius behind SOA, is once again at the helm of this ship. His skill as a storyteller is as present as ever in this series. His signature is all over this and I for one am very happy to see that. His characters are fully realized, they are as flawed as we all are, and the way he writes his female characters is truly a revelation.

Kurt doesn’t shy away from showing the darker parts of people “When you live on the fringe you are subject to all the things on the fringe” is what he said about Mayans. The female characters in this series are strong, passionate, smart, feminine, deeply scarred and fearless. He has such a respect for the voices women have that he said more than half the writers on Mayans are women. Plus being married to Katey Sagal helps, too, because we all know what kind of woman Gemma Teller Morrow was.

Well, I hope that you have enjoyed my summary of my impressions of the fabulous new FX Networks superb series, Mayans M.C.?

I know I didn’t go into much detail about the series, but my advice is to watch it for yourself and discover that world that toes the line at the U.S./Mexico border. My fondest dream is that I will be granted access to the FX Networks Press Room during San Diego Comic Con in 2019.

Until next season!

Thank you for visiting WormholeRiders News Agency. And thanks to Kenn for video embedding and additional images for my report. I will be back in the near future with more about Mayans M.C. and my ongoing awesome adventures at San Diego Comic Con 2018!

Please feel free to leave a comment here or If you prefer, you may also click the social media icons below to share this news article or as many of our readers and visitors often do, visit the WHR on Facebook or me on Twitter by clicking the links or images avatars in this news story.

See You on The Other Side!

Until next time,

Regards,

Lori

January 19, 2019

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