With the big holiday releases pouring in, studios are taking advantage of attention towards such films as Harry Potter, Narnia, and Tron by delivering some sneak previews of film's to come. Which trailer's tease well, and which are more likely to scare away?

Green Lantern
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One of the most beloved super heroes of all time, DC's Green Lantern is long over due for a screen adaptation. Starring hear throb Ryan Reynolds as the title character, the film seemed sure to deliver. That is until this overly sexed up, unconvincing, and downright silly trailer started airing in theaters starting last November. Fans should keep their fingers crossed that this film stays their brightest day, and not the blackest night it seems to be.

Score: D+

Cowboys and Aliens
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This gritty and violent trailer makes its point very early on: Cowboys and Aliens is not the fun comedy rump people were expecting. Not even playing to its camp value at all this haunting and effective teaser creates a sci-fi western that is cool, realistic, and creepy. Add in some badassery from Daniel Craig in the lead role and you have a killer trailer for a film that's quickly becoming one of the most anticipated releases of next summer.

Score: A

Transformers: Dark of the Moon
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An announcement trailer, as Michael Bay put it, this teaser for next summer's Transformers sequel, and probable finale, surprisingly works. Although hinting at a conspiracy that may well be the film's down fall, there is little denying that this tease is as intriguing as it is visually stunning. Here's hoping to a sequel that delivers on its potential.

Score: B+


Thor
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A gamble to begin with, Marvel's Thor adaptation still stands on uneven ground. Although sporting some impressive visual effects, a strong cast, and a increasingly interwoven multiverse (note the SHIELD agent from Iron Man), there are things about Thor that just seem off. Asgard looks more like a Flash Gordon sequel then a home to Norse gods, and many of the costume designs are incredibly goofy. However, the Earth scenes fairs much better, with Natalie Portman and the famous Destroyer armor stealing the show.

Score: B

Pirates of the Caribbean: On Stranger Tides
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Although not the train wreck many were expecting, the first glimpse at the fourth Pirates of the Caribbean film is still worrisome. Most of this comes from the film's apparent overreliance upon Jack Sparrow to carry the film. While the drunken pirate was easily a high point of the previous three installments, being tempered with a strong supporting cast, now absent from the series, kept the audiences from feeling over exposed. Jack's antics even grow tiring within the course of this trailer, with little else truly going on. Even more concerning is the injection of a love interest that does not seem to fit the feel of the series or the character. Fairly, there are moments of genuine fun and it is good to hear those old music cues agin.

Score: C+

Quick! View the comic con trailer for Thor, before Marvel takes it down!

Marvel has officially won Comic Con with perhaps the most impressive movie panel of all time.


Following the end of the comic book company's panel for the upcoming Thor adaptation, a teaser for the upcoming Avengers film slipped its way onto the massive screen overlooking the audience. As the logo for the film slowly grew on the screen Samuel L. Jackson as Nick Fury recited the most famous quote in the history of the Avengers: "And there came a day, a day unlike any other, when Earth's Mightiest Heroes found themselves united against a common threat. On that day...the Avengers were born."


Following the end of the teaser, Jackson himself stepped onto stage and slowly introduced the entire cast of the film as the joined him on stage: Scarlet Johansen as Black Widow, Chris Evans as Captain America, Chris Hemsworth as Thor, and introducing Mark Ruffalo as the Hulk and Jeremy Renner as Hawkeye. Finally, Robert Downey Jr. himself stepped on stage.


With a triumphant statement of confidence, he welcomed writer and director Joss Whedon himself up. As the the applause of the theater grew to a deafening roar, Whedon and Downey Jr. addressed the issues regarding the ambition of the project. Both assured the crowd of screaming fans that the project was indeed in good hands. And for once in a convention so often filled with cynicism, everyone agreed.


Information and image courtesy of IGN.com

Marvel is making sure to build sufficient hype for its upcoming megablockbusters based on Captain Ameirca and Thor. Both will be seen for the first time at Comic Con later this week. Not only has Marvel released some awesome poster art for both films, (Seen above and below) the official sites have launched.



Thor

Captain America

The Los Angeles time has also posted an interview with Captain America director Joe Johnston.
In it he discusses details around the character of Steve Rogers and the plot of the upcoming comic book adaptation:

"We're sort of putting a slightly different spin on Steve Rogers," said Joe Johnston, "He's a guy that wants to serve his country but he's not a flag-waver. We're reinterpretating sort of what the comic book version of Steve Rogers was."

"He wants to serve his country, but he's not this sort of jingoistic American flag-waver," Johnston added. "He's just a good person. We make a point of that in the script: Don't change who you are once you go from Steve Rogers to this super-soldier, you have to stay who you are inside, that's really what's important more than your strength and everything. It'll be interesting and fun to put a different spin on the character and one that the fans are really going to appreciate."

Look for more information regarding both films in our coverage of this year's San Diego Comic Con.

ET has just released a video from their set visit to Marvel's upcoming superhero epic Thor. Between the annoying cast interviews and puncy hosts, we are actually treated to some interesting glimpses at the world of the film including our first glimpse at the head god Odin.

Marvel has just handed over its company to the devil. Joe Quesada, the creator of the One More Day atrocity, has now become creative head for Marvel. I'm so upset and emotionally spent by this news I'm not even going to write more about it. For those interested, I have posted the press release given to Superherohype.com.

Marvel Entertainment, LLC announced today that it has promoted Joe Quesada to Chief Creative Officer of Marvel Entertainment. In this new role, Quesada will work alongside Alan Fine, Executive Vice President, Office of the President and Chairman of Marvel Studios' Creative Committee, to ensure that all portrayals of Marvel's characters and storytelling remain true to the essence of Marvel's rich history. Additionally, Quesada will provide creative oversight of all areas of Marvel's business including theatrical, television, publishing, animation and games, while also actively participating in all story and script development for Marvel's films and animation. Prior to this promotion, Quesada held the role of Chief Creative Officer & Editor-In-Chief, Marvel Animation & Publishing and oversaw the creative aspects of Marvel Comics and Marvel Animation. The announcement was made today by Fine, to whom Quesada will report.

Fine stated, "I am excited to have Joe join me as Marvel Entertainment enters the next chapter in our history. Joe has already played an instrumental role as Editor-in-Chief in changing the face of the comic book industry with bold new ventures and an unprecedented penetration of the mainstream consciousness. His love and passion for Marvel, along with his experience guiding publishing for the last decade, will be invaluable as we bring our characters to life in new media."

"I am honored to take this new position at Marvel Entertainment and work with Alan to bring the rich history of Marvel to a brand new audience" said Quesada. "Together with the incredible talent here at Marvel, in all our divisions, I look forward to making Marvel an even bigger part of the entertainment industry and showing why we've been an industry leader for over 70 years."

Quesada will also continue to serve as Editor-In-Chief, Marvel Publishing, where over the past decade he has helped usher in bold new imprints such as "Marvel Knights," the "Ultimate Universe" and "Marvel MAX." During his tenure, Marvel received acclaim for its "Heroes" special to commemorate the events of September 11, 2001; the groundbreaking "Death of Captain America" storyline; and President Obama's historic team up with Spider-Man. Quesada is also one of the industry's most popular artists, providing cover and interior art to blockbusters such as "Amazing Spider-Man," "Daredevil," Invincible Iron Man" and more.

So there you have it. Sugar coating a bad decision. Thanks again to Superherohype.com for the quote.

Well with Marvel's latest blockbuster less then a month away from release. We are getting news about future projects. Today Marvel released a press release for The First Avenger: Captain America, which among other things confirmed that Hayley Atwell will play Peggy Carter.



Here is the full press release courtesy of Marvel Studios:

Marvel Studios announced today that Hayley Atwell has been cast to star as Peggy Carter in the studio's highly anticipated movie CAPTAIN AMERICA: THE FIRST AVENGER opposite Chris Evans. In the early comics, Peggy Carter fell in love with Captain America while they fought together in the war effort. The character will be updated for the feature adaptation. Joe Johnston will direct the film penned by Christopher Markus & Stephen McFeely.

Marvel Studios' Kevin Feige will produce CAPTAIN AMERICA: THE FIRST AVENGER. Alan Fine, Stan Lee, David Maisel and Louis D'Esposito will executive produce. The film will be released in the US on July 22, 2011 and distributed by Paramount Pictures.

CAPTAIN AMERICA: THE FIRST AVENGER will focus on the early days of the Marvel Universe when Steve Rogers volunteers to participate in an experimental program that turns him into the Super Soldier known as Captain America.

Atwell will next be seen in PILLARS OF THE EARTH, the 8-part miniseries premiering July 23 on Starz and the TV series THE PRISONER. Her film credits include THE DUCHESS, BRIDESHEAD REVISITED and CASSANDRA'S DREAM.

In addition to CAPTAIN AMERICA: THE FIRST AVENGER, Marvel Studios will release a slate of films based on the Marvel characters including the highly anticipated sequel, IRON MAN 2, starring Robert Downey Jr. and Gwyneth Paltrow on May 7, 2010, THOR on May 6, 2011, and Marvel Studios’ THE AVENGERS on May 4, 2012.

Atwell is represented by CAA and United Agents.





In other news, an Italian site Bad Taste has posted a rather interesting rumor that both Captain America and Thor will appear after the ending credits in Iron Man 2. Sounds exciting to me!

Well, this week we have had an explosion of Marvel related news. We have news on everything from Iron Man 2, Captain America, Thor, and even the Avengers film! Gasp!

Iron Man 2:


Director Jon Favreau confirmed that production on Iron Man 2 has ended. In addition to this, he also confirmed that the superhero sequel would contain numerous connections to the upcoming Thor and Captain America films. There are even hints at a Thor cameo.

Thor:


The Los Angeles times recently held an interview with Thor director Kenneth Branagh, which revealed numerous details on the newest Marvel film. Branagh confirmed that the film is about two thirds done at this point. He also discussed the issues of having to tell a film in a Norse God setting and a modern day comic book universe: "Inspired by the comic book world both pictorially and compositionally at once, we've tried to find a way to make a virtue and a celebration of the distinction between the worlds that exist in the film but absolutely make them live in the same world. It's about finding the framing style, the color palette, finding the texture and the amount of camera movement that helps celebrate and express the differences and the distinctions in those worlds. If it succeeds, it will mark this film as different... The combination of the primitive and the sophisticated, the ancient and the modern, I think that potentially is the exciting fusion, the exciting tension in the film."

Captain America

After last weeks announcement that Chris Evans would be playing the films title character, this week we have announcement that Sebastian Stan would be playing Captain America's sidekick Bucky. Bucky has evolved from a plucky teen sidekick in the early days of Marvel to a violent and deadly assassin in modern days.

Avengers


Originally thought to be an April Fool's joke, IESB reported yesterday that the 2012 Avengers film will be directed by legendary writer/director Joss Whedon (Serenity, Firefly, Buffy the Vampire Slayer. Although, IESB has repeatedly reported that this is not a joke. If so, I'm sure there is going to be quiet a bit of excitement throughout the nerd community.

It is a well known fact that after Marvel's mega-battle Siege, Dark Reign will end and a new age in the Marvel universe will take place. This new "Heroic Age" is supposed to signal an end to the chaos and death that has gripped the universe for the past decade. Although this new age will still have its fair share of dark tales, heroes will once again be on the same side, and fighting for a singular cause.


Yet, with any new age comic fans have one thing to look forward to, roster changes! So far we have new line ups for three Avenger teams (I know three!), and the new Thunderbolts squad.


Secret Avengers:
Although we have little idea of who these heroes may be, only their silhouettes have been revealed. Noone is even sure what this team is supposed to signify. Mark this one gents, sure to be interesting.


Judging by the shadows, and what we've learned from fellow nerds, we appear to have Beast, Moon Knight, Valkyrie, Wonder Man, War Machine, and Stever Rogers. Sounds awesome to me!

Avengers

The core team of the Marvel universe has undergone another huge roster change. A mix of familiar and the old, this is sure to be a fun book. I'm sure many Marvel fans are geeking out over seeing Iron Man, Thor, and Captain America all working together again.

The New Avengers
Now here's the curveball. Many are confused about why this team continues to exist. The New Avengers were originally created at the end of the Avengers Disassembled arc in 2004. However, with a core Avengers team back in action, is there really a need for another Avengers team? Either way, heres the line up.

It is a commonly known rumor that Marvel has been planning an Avengers film. Our first inkling of the crossover of all crossover films was seen in 2008's The Incredible Hulk, when Robert Downey Jr's Tony STark made an appearance. The purported line up Thor, Iron Man, Captain America, Hawkeye, and the Hulk caused numerous nerdgasms, and speculation. How in the world would a studio afford a film of that budget? The Iron Man and Hulk films each cost over a hundred million dollars to produce. Well, it appears that Marvel is not letting that distract them. Yesterday, Joe Qusaeda, head of Marvel, stated that he had read the first draft of the script on his Twitter account. Also, the Oscar nominated actor, Jeremy Renner, has mentioned that he is intalks for the role of Hawkeye. More on this as it develops!

Everyone loves super heroes. Well everyone, but Gormy. With the summer season drawing closer, and the big releases for this year and next moving into new stages of production we are getting tons of news ranging from the Man of Steel, Thor, to Captain America.

First off, we have The Man of Steel, this new Superman film penned by Dark Knight writer David Goyer will have a new dark tone and try to do what The Dark Knight did for Batman. Io9.com reports: "Goyer's story involves Luthor and Brainiac. It is NOT an origin and assumes audiences already know about Lois, Clark, Jimmy and Perry. I know the Daily Planet is struggling due to the internet. And I know it sets up a huge Kryptonian mythology."



Marvel's own godly hero, Thor, also began principal photography this week and is penned for a may release next year. Also, some strange artwork has appeared on the internet that seems to be concept art for the Thor costume.

Finally, casting has begun for the Captain America film, keep your fingers crossed folks.

Well not really. Apparently, Spider-man 4 has once again reached trouble when it comes to scripting. Sam Raimi apparently "hated" the draft given to him by writer Gary Ross, and has demanded a total rescripting of the project. He has instead rehired scriptwriter for Spider man 2 and 3, Alvin Sargent. Possible villains are still up in the air, but the name John Malkovich keeps getting tossed around with the idea of the Vulture. (Fans prepare their shotguns).

Now how does Thor factor in? Well apparently, Thor has now taken Spider-man 4's previous release date May 11, 2011, with Spidey being pushed back to July. Now, what happens if Sony does manage to get Spidey back on line for its original date? Will we see a battle of superhero films? Stay tuned.

Its been a rather eventful two weeks for the Marvel Universe. We've got a huge slew of news involving all the world's greatest heroes, and villains. Ranging from news from new standalone issues, to the next major cross overs, to the newest movie news, Marvel was bursting at the seems with announcements this week.

Crossovers:

Marvel right now is still in the midst of this years big event, Dark Reign, in which Norman Osborne became leader of H.A.M.M.E.R., the replacement of shield. This series, which so far has overlaped almost every Marvel book in existence, has brought a new dark and ominous tone to the MU. A world once protected by heroes, is now one ruled by villains.



However this week Marvel announced their next big step, Siege. Osborne having completed his mysterious List, now sets his sights on one final target, Asgard. Asgard, home of the Norse gods including: Thor, now must face a virtual Siege form Osborne's new army of rogues. The following is to be one of the largest events in Marvel history, not only capping off Dark Reign, but leading to a climax of everything Marvel has been building since Avengers: Disassembled back six years ago. Brian Bendis, writer for the Avengers, claims that Siege will usher in a new Golden AGe for Marvel Comics. He's also stated that the main goal of the event is to reunite the big three heroes of the MU: Iron Man, Captain America, and Thor. Each of which haven't worked together in almost a decade.



In addition to Siege Marvel has several other major cross overs planned out. First being, Doom War. Doom War follows the Fantastic Four, and Wakanda's efforts to defeat Dr. Doom's efforts in Latveria once and for all. The result is another all out assualt. (Apparently Marvel Likes those)

Marvel also plans to wrap up the X-men: Messiah trilogy this year, as well as feature a Deadpool centric event entitled, The Deadpool Corps.

Movies:


Its' been a huge two weeks on the Movie side of Marvel to.

The Thor film, due for a 2011 release, recieved a ton of news these last few days. And for once, I was actually there when the news occurred, yes I feel special. During the Baltimore comic con panel, Bendis mentioned that the new Thor script was "really, really good". Of course, me being ignorant didn't think this qualified as news, and when I saw it on the internet later that week I felt kind of dumb. There have also been rumors that Robert DeNiro, Jude Law, and Dominic Cooper might be appearing in the film.

Captain America

In other news that isn't really news, but people report otherwise. Joe Quesada, the evil head of Marvel Comics, said that the new Captain America movie is going to be shockingly good. I'm psyched for the film, but coming from the guy who invented such ideas as Spider-Man: One More Day, I'm not that confident.

Spider-man 4


Spider-man 4 has been getting perhaps the bigest news of all. Sam Raimi has confirmed that this film will once again return to the basics, and focus on less villains the uneven third installment. Also, Dylan Baker has confirmed that he will reprising the his role as Dr. Curt Conners, leaving many to believe that the Lizard will finally appear as the villain in the next film. Bruce Campbell has also mentioned that Raimi promised him a large role in the fourth installment, sparking some rumors taht he might appear as the villainous Mysterio.