Sci-Fi Movies Friday: Thor, Green Lantern, Paul, Superman, The Hobbit, The Avengers

In this week’s Sci-Fi Movies column we start with first looks from the upcoming Thor and Green Lantern movies. We also have first looks at Simon Pegg’s Paul. Plus Peter Jackson starts casting for The Hobbit, there is casting news for the new Hulk and casting rumors for the next Superman. We also have a breakdown of the movies coming to Comic Con. All that and the latest casting bites, images and videos.

GENRE MOVIE NEWS

Thor and Captain America will be released in 3D + New Photos from Thor

Marvel has released a new photo of the Gods of Thor, featuring Anthony Hopkins as Odin, Chris Hemsworth as Thor and Tom Hiddleston as Loki. A second photo from the film, a magazine scan, also surfaced online courtesy the Superhero Hype forums:

The studio has also confirmed that both "Thor" and "Captain America: The First Avenger" will be released in 3D. Unfortunately both films will be converted from 2D to 3D post-production. The one positive point, however, is that the special effects for the film’s were conceived in 3D. Marvel head and producer Kevin Feige has gone to great lengths to ensure the conversions will go more smoothly than past ill-fated efforts [Hero Complex blog]:

"I’d say there’s not a great feeling out there for conversion based on some of the films that may have succeeded financially but had their artistry come under fire," Feige said, not naming names but most likely referring to "Clash of the Titans," the Warner Bros. release that surpassed $490 million in worldwide box office but was savaged by critics for a rushed 3-D conversion that many saw as especially clumsy, distracting and ill-advised.

Feige, in London for "Captain America," pledged that "an unprecedented amount of time" would be devoted to the conversion process. He also said the films will benefit from the fact that the 3-D choice was made early on with passion and planning and not in post-production, as was the case with a flurry of films that came on the heels of "Avatar" and its historic box-office success.

"Thor" is scheduled to hit theaters on May 6, 2011 followed by "Captain America: The First Avenger" on July 22, 2011.

First look at Ryan Reynolds in costume as the Green Lantern

This week’s cover of Entertainment Weekly features our first look at Ryan Reynolds in his CG-created "Green Lantern" costume. Click the image above to see the complete cover [EW via Newsarama]. Another batch of images, scans from inside the magazine, also surfaced online courtesy iFanboy. Check them out in the gallery below. The issue hits newsstands tomorrow, July 16.

In related news, Us Magazine is reporting that Reynolds was injured Monday on the New Orleans set of the film. The actor separated his should and "is in lots of pain," according to the site. No word if this will in any way affect shooting. "Green Lantern" is scheduled to hit conventional and 3D theaters on June 17, 2011.

First official look at Sci-Fi comedy Paul starring Simon Pegg

Universal Pictures has released a batch of official images (click here for more) from the upcoming Greg Mottola-directed sci-fi comedy "Paul", which stars Simon Pegg, Nick Frost and Seth Rogen as the voice of the alien Paul. Here’s the synopsis for the film:

Simon Pegg and Nick Frost (Hot Fuzz, Shaun of the Dead) reunite for the comedy adventure Paul as two sci-fi geeks whose pilgrimage takes them to America’s UFO heartland. While there, they accidentally meet an alien who brings them on an insane road trip that alters their universe forever.

For the past 60 years, an alien named Paul (voiced by Seth Rogen) has been hanging out at a top-secret military base. For reasons unknown, the space-traveling smart ass decides to escape the compound and hop on the first vehicle out of town—a rented RV containing Earthlings Graeme Willy (Pegg) and Clive Collings (Frost).

Chased by federal agents and the fanatical father of a young woman that they accidentally kidnap, Graeme and Clive hatch a fumbling escape plan to return Paul to his mother ship. And as two nerds struggle to help, one little green man might just take his fellow outcasts from misfits to intergalactic heroes.

Check out some reports from the film’s set at the following sites: ComingSoon.net | Collider (Interviews: Simon Pegg and Nick Frost, Producer Nick Park, Director Greg Mottola), | Latino Review | UGO

Still no greenlight, but Jackson has reportedly begun The Hobbit casting process
Despite the fact that the films still haven’t been given a greenlight due to MGM’s debt issues, Heat Vision is reporting that rumored director Peter Jackson has begun to quietly meet with actors for "The Hobbit":

The casting trip, which also included stops in New York and the U.K., underscores the progress being made on a complex series of deals to bring J.R.R. Tolkien’s epic fantasy novel to the big screen.

Sources say Jackson’s pact with Warner Bros. to direct the two-part "Hobbit" adaptation is close to done, but the sticking point continues to be the dire financial situation at MGM, which holds half the rights to the property.

The report adds that Jackson has expressed his own concerns with the project’s delays and is privately telling MGM and co-distributor Warner Brothers that he will not commit to the project unless the films can be fast-tracked for release in 2012 and 2013.

New Superman: Casting rumors + Jonathon Nolan directing?
Here’s a new batch of rumors for the next Superman movie, still tentatively titled "Man of Steel". Despite last weeks report, several sources say that Christopher Columbus has not been offered the chance to direct the project, and that instead Christopher Nolan’s brother Jonathon — who is currently writing the script with David Goyer — is attached to direct. The news comes from GeekTyrant who additionally report that actors have already auditioned for the project including Zachary Levi ("Chuck"):

According to our sources that reside on the WB studio lot that have informed us that Christopher Nolan’s brother Jonathan is currently the unannounced director of the Superman reboot film. Word on the lot is that he is attached to direct the film and has been on the studio lot a lot these days working on pre-development stuff.

It was also revealed to us that auditions for the Superman reboot are currently taking place, and our source dropped the name of one actor who they know has auditioned for the film. This actor’s name is Zachary Levi, who you all know from the NBC TV show Chuck. It’s unknown at this time what role he auditioned for, but one can guess that it was for the role of Clark Kent, a.k.a. Superman. Levi seems to have all the right Clark Kent qualities, and it seems like he’s in good enough shape. I think he would be a nice fit for the role.

"Man of Steel" has a rumored release of December 2012.

Mark Ruffalo in talks to replace Edward Norton as Hulk in The Avengers
Earlier this week Marvel announced that they would not move forward with Edward Norton as The Incredible Hulk in "The Avengers". The announcement was made by Marvel president Kevin who used the opportunity to take a swipe at the actor:

…Our decision is definitely not one based on monetary factors, but instead rooted in the need for an actor who embodies the creativity and collaborative spirit of our other talented cast members. The Avengers demands players who thrive working as part of an ensemble, as evidenced by Robert, Chris H, Chris E, Sam, Scarlett, and all of our talented casts. We are looking to announce a name actor who fulfills these requirements, and is passionate about the iconic role in the coming weeks.”

That did not go over well with Norton’s agent who issued a statement strongly defending his client and more clearly explaining the situation (I’ve posted an excerpt below, but you can read the rest of it here):

"This offensive statement from Kevin Feige at Marvel is a purposefully misleading, inappropriate attempt to paint our client in a negative light. Here are the facts: two months ago, Kevin called me and said he wanted Edward to reprise the role of Bruce Banner in The Avengers. He told me it would be his fantasy to bring Edward on stage with the rest of the cast at ComiCon and make it the event of the convention. When I said that Edward was definitely open to this idea, Kevin was very excited and we agreed that Edward should meet with Joss Whedon to discuss the project. Edward and Joss had a very good meeting (confirmed by Feige to me) at which Edward said he was enthusiastic at the prospect of being a part of the ensemble cast. Marvel subsequently made him a financial offer to be in the film and both sides started negotiating in good faith. This past Wednesday, after several weeks of civil, uncontentious discussions, but before we had come to terms on a deal, a representative from Marvel called to say they had decided to go in another direction with the part. This seemed to us to be a financial decision but, whatever the case, it is completely their prerogative, and we accepted their decision with no hard feelings."

Shortly thereafter Norton issued his own statement and decided to take a more diplomatic route [Facebook]

So who will replace Norton? Deadline Hollywood seems to think it’ll be Mark Ruffalo with Nikki Finke reporting that the actor is in "late-stage discussions" with Marvel. Deadline’s scoop was confirmed by Heat Vision, but that site cautions that Ruffalo isn’t a lock:

According to sources, Ruffalo does have an offer to play the monstrous hero but not only has he not decided whether he wants the role, he has yet to meet the film’s director, Joss Whedon. Talks are underway for the actor and the director to meet at the end of this week or this weekend.

Worth noting: before the Ruffalo news broke, CHUD reported that Joaquin Phoenix had been offered the role. "The Avengers" is scheduled to hit theaters on May 4, 2012. Joss Whedon is on board the project as a writer and presumably will also direct. There have been reports that Marvel will announce the cast and officially announce Whedon as director of the project at Comic-Con next week. Stay tuned.

Transformers 3 opening revealed
The opening sequence of Michael Bay’s "Transformers 3" has leaked online. No major plot points are revealed, but unless you want to know how the film opens, don’t highlight the invisi-text [via CHUD]:

There’s a disturbance on the Moon. A robot shaped disturbance. Scientists on Earth see this and the information gets passed up the chain of command. In the White House men in black suits are breathlessly running through the halls, and they burst into the Oval Office. The president is behind the desk, back turned to the door, looking out the window. One of the men tells the president, ‘Sir, something’s happened on the Moon!’ The president turns around.

It’s John F. Kennedy.

Yes, the opening scene of Transformers 3 takes place in 1961 or 1962. The gist of the story has to do with the Transformers’ involvement in the space race, and this is the reason why JFK was so hot to make sure America was first to the Moon. It sounds like a fun direction; there are a lot of stupid conspiracy theories about Neil Armstrong et al meeting ETs on the Moon, and this is a fun way to play with them. I hear this was Spielberg’s idea, and it really does sound like something he’d come up with. If you’re like me and you like the Spielberg-influenced Transformers but hate the mostly Spielberg-free Transformers 2, this is all good news.

"Transformers 3" is scheduled to hit conventional and 3D theaters on July 1, 2011.

Robot Chicken: Star Wars Episode III premiereing December 12
Adult Swim has announced that "Robot Chicken: Star Wars Episode III" will air on December 12, 2010 at 11:30 p.m. The third parody in the "Robot Chicken: Star Wars" series features the voice talents of Zac Efron as Anakin Skywalker, original star Anthony Daniels as C-3PO, Mike Henry and Donald Glover. They’ll be joined by returning talent Billy Dee Williams (Lando Calrissian), Ahmed Best (Jar Jar Binks), creators Seth Green and Matthew Senreich, Breckin Meyer, Seth MacFarlane and more.

"We’re telling more of a linear story this time that covers the series from start to finish," says Green. Senreich says, "We wanted to take the ‘Star Wars’ universe and see if through the eyes of our Robot Chicken: Star Wars Emperor Palpatine, Darth Vader, Boba Fett and Gary the Stormtrooper. We’ll still flip around the universe but we’ll get a unique perspective from the bad guy side, from people who just want to rule the universe."

Comic-Con schedules released
The 4-day schedule (+ preview night) for the 2010 San Diego Comic-Con have been released. Here are some highlights:

Day 1 – Thursday, July 22 (Click for Complete Schedule–including preview night on Wednesday, July 21)

• DreamWorks Animation: Megamind (10:00-11:00AM) — DreamWorks Animation makes its Comic-Con debut with Megamind. The characters Megamind and Metro Man are jettisoned to Earth as babies when their home planets are destroyed. Megamind crash-lands inside a maximum-security prison, where he evolves into the wicked and diabolical genius he is today, while the dashingly handsome superhero Metro Man grows into the universally adored savior of Metro City, beloved by every man, woman and child — and especially the city’s ace reporter Roxanne Ritchi. These life-long archenemies will rewrite superhero movie lore when they challenge each other to the ultimate showdown of Good vs. Evil! Megamind stars Will Ferrell, Tina Fey, and Jonah Hill and director Tom McGrath join forces to unveil footage from DreamWorks Animation’s November 5 release. Hall H
• Walt Disney Pictures: TRON: Legacy (11:15-12:45PM) — Returning for an unprecedented third year to the fans and convention that started it all, Walt Disney Pictures is pleased to present a special insider look at the upcoming TRON: Legacy. Panelists include filmmakers and talent from the film: director Joe Kosinski, producers Sean Bailey and Steven Lisberger, and cast members Jeff Bridges, Garrett Hedlund, Olivia Wilde, Michael Sheen, and Bruce Boxleitner. The discussion, moderated by Patton Oswalt, is set to include exclusive glimpses of the film, as well as a Q&A involving all panel participants, along with special surprise guests. Hall H
• Sony Pictures Entertainment: Battle: Los Angeles and Salt (1:00-2:00PM) — Two great new films from Sony Pictures Entertainment are showcased in this Hall H presentation! Battle: Los Angeles — When unknown forces suddenly and mercilessly attack the City of Angels out of nowhere, it’s up to a local Marine staff sergeant (Aaron Eckhart) and a new platoon of unseasoned soldiers to meet the threat. As the invasion hits the streets of LA, these Marines become our first and last line of defense in an intense battle against an enemy unlike any they’ve ever encountered before. Appearing in person are Michelle Rodriguez, Aaron Eckhart, Neal Moritz, and director Jonathan Liebesman. Hall H
• Summit Entertainment: RED (2:15-3:15PM) — Summit Entertainment presents a sneak peek of exclusive footage from RED. They used to be the CIA’s top agents — but the secrets they know just made them the Agency’s top targets. Bruce Willis, Morgan Freeman, John Malkovich, and Helen Mirren star in RED, an explosive action-comedy based on the cult DC Comics graphic novel by Warren Ellis. Join him, director Robert Schwentke, and the film’s stars as they share footage from the film and debut the final trailer before it’s ever in theaters. Hall H
• Masters of the Web (3:00-4:00PM) — Hollywood Writer/Producer Roberto Orci (Star Trek 2, Cowboys & Aliens, Transformers, Star Trek, Alias, Mission Impossible 3) and writer/director Edgar Wright (Shaun of the Dead, Hot Fuzz, Scott Pilgrim vs the World) moderate and AMC Theatres Blog Editor John Campea (AMCTheatres.com/network/scriptscreen) hosts a panel of the most popular movie website personalities as they come together to discuss how new media has influenced moviemaking and marketing, what it takes to run a popular site, and much more in a panel discussion and Q&A session. The panel consists of Jen Yamato (former senior editor of Rotten Tomatoes, now writing for Cinematical, Hitfix, Film.Com and FEARnet), Edward Douglas (Coming Soon.net), Vic Holtreman (Screenrant.com), Mike Sampson (Joblo.com), George "El Guapo" Roush (Latino Review.com), Erik Davis (Cinematical.com), and Devin Faraci (CHUD.com). Passes to the annual, highly anticipated "From Dusk til Con" party will be given out to a few lucky attendees, and one attendee will win a pass good for one year of free movies at any AMC Theatres location. Room 32AB
• Entertainment Weekly: The Visionaries (3:30-4:30PM) — A discussion with geek gods J. J. Abrams (Star Trek) and Joss Whedon (Buffy the Vampire Slayer) on the future of pop culture. EW presents an in-depth conversation with these two creative geniuses about how technology, gaming, and global culture are reshaping how we tell and consume stories on television, film and the web. Plus: Is the superhero movie waning, or is it on the cusp of reinvention? And what do they think the pop culture universe will look like a decade from now? Moderated by Jeff "Doc" Jensen. Hall H
• Universal: Scott Pilgrim vs. the World (6:00-7:00PM) — Genre-bending filmmaker Edgar Wright (Hot Fuzz), graphic novel author Bryan Lee O’Malley, and the cast of Universal Pictures’ Scott Pilgrim vs. the World provide a sneak peek of summer 2010’s epic of epic epicness. Joining Wright will be our hero, Scott Pilgrim (Michael Cera of Superbad); Scott’s two current girlfriends, Ramona Flowers (Mary Elizabeth Winstead of The Thing) and Knives Chau (Ellen Wong of Unnatural History); his band, SEX BOB-OMB: Kim Pine (Alison Pill of Milk) and Stephen Stills (Mark Webber of Broken Flowers); SEX BOB-OMB super-fan Young Neil (Johnny Simmons of Jennifer’s Body); Scott’s awesome roommate, Wallace Wells (Kieran Culkin of Igby Goes Down); and four of Ramona’s seven evil exes: Matthew Patel (Satya Bhabha of Fair Game), Todd Ingram (Brandon Routh of Superman Returns), Gideon Graves (Jason Schwartzman of Funny People) and Roxy Richter (Mae Whitman of Parenthood); plus Scott’s younger sister, Stacey Pilgrim (Anna Kendrick of Up in the Air), and the obnoxious Julie Powers (Aubrey Plaza of Parks and Recreation). Q&A to follow. Hall H
• World Premiere of Lost Boys: The Thirst (10:00-12:00AM) — The Frog Brothers return to Comic-Con with holy water balloons ablazin’ for the world premiere of Lost Boys: The Thirst, the latest high-energy, action-packed adventure in the ongoing franchise. Original cast members Corey Feldman and Jamison Newlander present the first-ever screening of the cult classic’s third film, in which the lost boys and girls of San Cazador prepare to party under the Blood Moon — while an alpha vampire conspires to turn these unsuspecting ravers into an army of undead. The only thing that stands between him and the annihilation of the entire human race are the infamous vampire-fighting Frog Brothers. Expect some serious bloodsucker butt kicking. And Warner Bros. is providing the free popcorn! Indigo Ballroom, San Diego Hilton Bayfront
• Added Note: Dimension Films has moved the "Piranha 3D" Comic-Con panel off-site. The studio’s presentation will now take place at the Regal Horton Plaza Thursday, July 22nd at 10:00 p.m.. Director Alex Aja will be on-hand to present several minutes of never-before-seen footage followed by a Q&A. The director made the decision to present the footage elsewhere after refusing to edit down the content to a PG-13 level. [NY Times]

Day 2 – Friday, July 23 (Click for Complete Schedule)

• Sony Pictures Entertainment: The Other Guys, The Green Hornet, and Priest (4:00-6:00) — Two more sneak peeks at upcoming films from Sony Pictures Entertainment! The Green Hornet–Director Michel Gondry, who makes movies with a special, personal signature, is taking on The Green Hornet — and he’s doing it in 3D. Comic-Con audiences, prepare yourselves. In The Green Hornet, Britt Reid (Seth Rogen) is the son of L.A.’s most prominent and respected media magnate and perfectly happy to maintain a directionless existence on the party scene — until his father (Tom Wilkinson) mysteriously dies, leaving Britt his vast media empire. Striking an unlikely friendship with one of his father’s more industrious and inventive employees, Kato (Jay Chou), they see their chance to do something meaningful for the first time in their lives: fight crime. To get close to the criminals, they come up with the perfect cover: they’ll pose as criminals themselves. Protecting the law by breaking it, Britt becomes the vigilante The Green Hornet as he and Kato hit the streets. Confirmed to appear in person to unveil this early look at The Green Hornet in 3D are the Hornet himself, Seth Rogen, director Michel Gondry, writer Evan Goldberg, producer Neal Moritz, and actor Christoph Waltz.
• Priest (3D) — A western-infused post-apocalyptic thriller, set in an alternate world — one ravaged by centuries of war between man and vampires. The story revolves around a legendary Warrior Priest (Paul Bettany) from the last Vampire War who now lives in obscurity among the other downtrodden human inhabitants in walled-in dystopian cities. When his niece (Lily Collins) is abducted by a murderous pack of vampires, Priest breaks his sacred vows to venture out on an obsessive quest to find her before they turn her into one of them. He is joined on his crusade by his niece’s boyfriend (Cam Gigandet), a trigger-fingered young wasteland sheriff, and a former Warrior Priestess (Maggie Q) who possesses otherworldly fighting skills. Stars Paul Bettany, Karl Urban, Maggie Q, Cam Gigandet, Stephen Moyer, and director Scott Stewart will be onstage to unveil the first 3D look at Priest. Hall H
• 30 Days of Night: Dark Days (7:30-8:30PM) — This highly anticipated sequel to the box office hit 30 Days of Night is based on the second book of the cult graphic novel series and will debut on Blu-ray and DVD this fall from Sony Pictures Home Entertainment. Director/co-screenwriter Ben Ketai (Dusk to Dusk), graphic novel creator/co-writer Steve Niles, stars Keile Sanchez (Lost), Diora Baird (TCM: The Beginning), and Rhys Coiro (Entourage, upcoming Straw Dogs), and producer J. R. Young (Ghosthouse) are on hand for an exclusive sneak peek, panel, and Q&A session. Room 7AB
• World Premiere: Batman: Under the Red Hood (8:00-10:00PM–encore screening at 10:15-11:45PM) — Warner Home Video, Warner Premiere, DC Entertainment, and Warner Bros. Animation proudly present the World Premiere of Batman: Under the Red Hood, the eighth entry in the ongoing series of DC Universe Animated Original PG-13 movies. In the film, Batman faces his ultimate challenge as the mysterious Red Hood takes Gotham City by firestorm. One part vigilante, one part criminal kingpin, Red Hood begins cleaning up Gotham with the efficiency of Batman, but without following the same ethical code. Killing is an option. And when The Joker falls in the balance between the two, hard truths are revealed and old wounds are reopened. The stellar voice cast is led by Bruce Greenwood (Star Trek), Jensen Ackles (Supernatural), Neil Patrick Harris (How I Met Your Mother), John DiMaggio (Futurama), Jason Issacs (the Harry Potter films), and Vincent Martella (Phineas & Ferb). Executive producer Bruce Timm (DCU films), director Brandon Vietti (Superman: Doomsday), award-winning comics writer Judd Winick, casting/dialogue director Andrea Romano (DCU films) and members of the voice cast will be around for a postscreening panel that will reveal details behind the making of the film, a glimpse of the 2011 DC Universe Animated Original Movies slate, and a first look at the next DCU film, Superman/Batman: Apocalypse. Warner Home Video will distribute Batman: Under the Red Hood on Blu-Ray and DVD, OnDemand and For Download on July 27, 2010. Note: a second encore screening will take place in the same room beginning at 10:15. Ballroom 20

Day 3 – Saturday, July 24 (Click for Complete Schedule)

• Warner Bros.: Green Lantern, Sucker Punch, and Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows (11:45-1:15PM) — Warner Bros. showcases three eagerly awaited upcoming new films in this Hall H presentation! Green Lantern— Get a first look at the upcoming sci-fi action adventure Green Lantern, directed by Martin Campbell. Green Lantern is an epic adventure that crosses galaxies to bring to life the legendary Silver Age superhero Hal Jordan, who is chosen by the ring itself to become the first human member of the Green Lantern Corps and take on the vast and powerful Parallax as it threatens to destroy the world. The film stars Ryan Reynolds as Hal Jordan, Blake Lively as Carol Ferris, Peter Sarsgaard as Dr. Hector Hammond, and Mark Strong as Sinestro.
• Sucker Punch — Fasten your seatbelt for a sneak peek at the dark action fantasy Sucker Punch, from director Zack Snyder, who previewed his films 300 and Watchmen at past Comic-Cons. A group of young girls escape the dark reality of their lives through their vivid imagination, which takes them to various fantasy locations in different realms. The ensemble cast features Emily Browning, Abbie Cornish, Vanessa Hudgens, Carla Gugino, Jena Malone, Jamie Chung, and Jon Hamm.
• Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows — Every saga has a final chapter. Kick off the year of Harry Potter with a first look at the coming screen adaptation of J. K. Rowling’s final book in the series, Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows, with a program created just for Comic-Con fans. One way. One hero. One destiny. Don’t miss it! Hall H
• Overture: Let Me In (1:30-2:30PM) — The cast and filmmakers of Let Me In, a haunting and provocative thriller written and directed by filmmaker Matt Reeves (Cloverfield), give the Hall H audience a sneak peek at this highly anticipated film. Let Me In is an astonishing coming-of-age story involving a young girl (Kick Ass’s Chloe Moretz) and an alienated boy (Kodi Smit-McPhee from The Road) unlike any you have seen. Based on the bestselling Swedish novel Lat den Ratte Komma (Let The Right One In) by John Ajvide Lindqvist and the highly acclaimed film of the same name, Let Me In takes audiences straight to the troubled heart of adolescent longing and loneliness. Academy Award-nominee Richard Jenkins (The Visitor) also stars in this exhilarating reboot of the beloved original. Hall H
• Screen Gems: Resident Evil: Afterlife (4:00-4:45PM) — In a world ravaged by a virus infection that turns its victims into the Undead, Alice (Milla Jovovich) continues on her journey to find survivors and lead them to safety. Her deadly battle with the Umbrella Corporation reaches new heights, but Alice gets some unexpected help from an old friend. A new lead that promises a safe haven from the Undead takes them to Los Angeles, but when they arrive the city is overrun by thousands of Undead and Alice and her comrades are about to step into a deadly trap. The fourth installment of the hugely successful Resident Evil franchise, Resident Evil: Afterlife is again based on the wildly popular video game series and this time will be shot in 3D using the same state-of-the-art cameras created for Avatar. Writer/director Paul W. S. Anderson, along with the film’s stars Milla Jovovich, Ali Larter, and Wentworth Miller, will be on hand to show you some stunning 3D sequences and answer your questions. Hall H
• Universal: Paul and Cowboys & Aliens (4:45-5:45PM) — Universal presents two upcoming films in this exclusive Hall H presentation. Paul — Scheduled to appear for Universal Pictures’ sci-fi comedy-adventure Paul are a who’s who of film comedy. Director Greg Mottola (Superbad) will be joined by cast members Simon Pegg (Hot Fuzz), Nick Frost (Shaun of the Dead), Kristen Wiig (Date Night), Bill Hader (Forgetting Sarah Marshall), Jeffrey Tambor (The Hangover), Joe Lo Truglio (Role Models), Seth Rogen (The Green Hornet), and Sigourney Weaver (Baby Mama) as they discuss the movie about two sci-fi geeks whose pilgrimage to Comic-Con ultimately takes them to America’s UFO heartland. While there, they accidentally meet an alien who takes them on an insane road trip that alters their universe forever. Q&A session to follow.
• Cowboys & Aliens — Director Jon Favreau (Iron Man series) discusses what’s happening behind the scenes of Universal Pictures and DreamWorks’ action-thriller Cowboys & Aliens, based on Platinum Studios’ graphic novel. Currently shooting in New Mexico, Cowboys & Aliens stars Daniel Craig and Harrison Ford and takes audiences into the Old West, where a lone cowboy leads an uprising against a terror from beyond our world. Q&A session to follow. Hall H

Day 4 – Sunday, July 25 (Click for Complete Schedule)

• Marvel: Spider-Man (12:45-1:45PM) — The hunt has begun and the moment that everyone’s been clamoring about is almost here! How much more can everyone’s favorite web-slinger take? You’ve got questions and these people have answers! Dan Slott (Amazing Spider-Man), Marvel’s talent liaison C. B. Cebulski, and Amazing Spider-Man assistant editor Tom Brennan talk about what’s on the horizon for Peter Parker and just what is "Origin of the Species"? There’s only one way to find out, True Believers — attend this panel! Room 6A

Fan Film: Thunderbirds 2010
Check out this 14-minute "Thunderbirds" fan-film based on the original 1960’s Gerry Anderson TV series. Developed to prove the property could work as a live-action series, the project was directed by Chris Thompson who together with his team produced the film over the course of 13 months in Northern Ireland on a budget of roughly 1,000£ (or about $1,500). The poster is also included below. Thunderbirds are Go.

Opening Weekend: Inception
Finally. Christopher Nolan’s highly anticipated original film "Inception" hits theaters this weekend. Before heading off to watch it, check out this great interview with castmembers Leonardo DiCaprio, Joseph Gordon-Levitt, Ellen Page, Tom Hardy and Cillian Murphy discussing the admittedly complex film over at The Guardian. You can also check out another interview with Joseph Gordon-Levitt at ComingSoon.net and dig into a prequel comic released by Warner Brothers titled "The Cobol Job" over at Yahoo! Movies. "Inception" opens midnight tonight in conventional and IMAX theaters with box office tracking indicating a $50-70 million opening. Feel free to sound off on your thoughts about the film in the comments section below.

PREVIEW Videos & Images

Devil

Movie trailer [Trailer Addict]

Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows

First look from ABC Family [YouTube]

Legend of the Guardians: The Owls of Ga’Hoole

UK banner posters [more at Trailer Addict]

Piranha 3D

Movie poster [Shock Ya]

Predators

Interviews with the cast and crew [blastr]

Red

Character posters (Bruce Willis and Helen Mirren) [Collider & Collider]

Character posters (John Malkovich and Morgan Freeman) [Collider & Collider]

Scream 4

Set images [more at tlfan via Movies.SpoilerTV.com]

Sharktopus

Trailer [The Live Feed]

Tangled

Concept art [/Film]

Transformers 3

Set images [Celubutopia & more at Movies.SpoilerTV.com (2)]

Set video [YouTube — more via Bleeding Cool]

Stunt video [YouTube — more via SpoilerTV]

Set visit interview with Patrick Dempsey [YouTube]

Tron Legacy

Banner #6 [IGN]

MOVIE BITES

• The Wachowski’s sci-fi Iraq war film has received a name: "CN9". Casting on the film has also gotten underway. [Production Weekly]
• "Tron Legacy" director Joseph Kosinski showed an early cut of the film to John Lasseter, Ed Catmull and Brad Bird of Pixar and used their notes to help craft his material for re-shoots that took place over a six-day period this past June… [EW]
• …In related news, Kosinski has been tapped to direct "Archangels". Set in the near future, "Archangels" is described as a "’Bourne’-style thriller crossed with alien elements." The film’s protagonist is "part of an elite force that is tasked with tracking aliens who get past Earth’s defense system." [Heat Vision]
• David Prowse has informed fans via his website that he has been banned from appearing at any Lucasfilm-associated events, including this August’s Star Wars Celebration V. [David Prowse via blastr]
• Production on Marvel’s adaptation of the Brian K. Vaughn graphic novel "The Runaways" is scheduled to run from January – July 2011. [Production Weekly]
• …Production start dates have also been set for "Clash of the Titans 2" (February 2011) and "Oz, The Great and Powerful" (June 2011)… [Production Weekly & Production Weekly]
• …Also, Tim Burton’s "Dark Shadows", starring Johnny Depp as the vampire Barnabas Collins, will start shooting in January 2011. [Deadline]
• Dark Horse Comics will publish "Let Me In: Crossroads", a four-issue prequel series to the upcoming Matt Reeves-directed feature "Let Me In". See some art below. [io9]

• Marvel is launching a new comic series called "DeadpoolMAX". The series comes from the creative team of David Lapham and Kyle Baker: "We have a story to tell, and the only way to tell it is through MAX. Will it be sophomoric? Yes. Will it be fun? Yes. Will it be smart? Define smart. Will there be cameos by some of your favorite superheroes and villains? Yes…when I’m allowed to," said Marvel Vice President Executive Editor Axel Alonso. [Comic Book Resources]
• Zoe Green is in final negotiations with Disney to write a screenplay for a live-action film based around Gargoyles. The project, based on an original idea, "centers around a world and mythology of the menacing stone statues." [Variety]
• "Iron Man 2" will hit DVD and Blu-ray on September 28, 2010. [Paramount Home Entertainment]
• 20th Century Fox has announced the "Alien Anthology" set will hit Blu-ray on October 26, 2010. The set will feature over 60 hours of special features. [ShockTillYouDrop]
• Deborah Snyder, produce and wife of Zack Snyder, re-iterated that "Sucker Punch" more than likely will note be converted to 3D. [ComingSoon.net]
• Check out a set report for Summit Entertainment’s adaptation of Warren Ellis and Cully Hamner’s graphic novel "Red" over at Superhero Hype.
• "Despicable Me" opened to a dominant $56.4 million last weekend, easily besting "Predators" which posted a respectable $24.8 million in third place. Second place for the weekend went to "The Twilight Saga: Eclipse" which brought in $31.7 million for its second week. [BOM]
• …Not surprisingly, Universal Pictures is already moving forward with a "Despicable Me" sequel. [Deadline New York]
• …Disney, meanwhile, was hoping to get a jump on "Inception" by launching "The Sorcerer’s Apprentice" on Wednesday but the Bruckheimer-produced film didn’t make much of an impression on audiences taking in just $3.9 million. [BOM]
• …Disney, by the way, is offering buy-one-get-one-free tickets to the film via Fandango.com. Just enter the code "APPRENTICE" at checkout. Deal good while supplies last. [LA Times]
• Brett Ratner’s publicist has denied a report by the LA Times that the director is in talks to direct "Hercules". [The Wrap]
• "The Twilight Saga: Breaking Dawn" screenwriter Melissa Rosenberg has revealed that the scene where Bella gives birth will be seen on camera: "The childbirth — all the scenes, I feel — should be on screen." Rosenberg added, however, that one part in particular won’t be seen: "…would we actually see Edward’s teeth through the placenta? I don’t think so. I don’t think we need to see that…I believe it will be implied, but I don’t think we’ll see teeth in the placenta."… [PopSugar]
• …In related news, Summit says they are considering shooting the two films in 3D: ""That decision has yet to be made…It’s still the source of a discussion." [MTV]
• Check out a report from the set of the Seth Rogen-co-written/starring / Michel Gondry-directed "The Green Hornet" at IGN.

CASTING BITES

• Brian Cox is in final negotiations to join director Rupert Wyatt’s "Rise of the Apes". Cox will play "the villainous owner of a primate sanctuary who runs the facility without compassion for the animals that live there." [The Wrap]
• Laurence Fishburne has joined the cast of Steven Soderbergh’s virus-outbreak thriller "Contagion". [Variety]
• Amanda Seyfried will star in writer/director Andrew Niccol’s "I’m.mortal". The film takes place "in a society where people stop aging at 25-years-old and time has become the currency, meaning the rich are immortal while the rest of the population struggles to survive."  [The Wrap]
• Disney is developing a live-action romantic comedy based on Tinkerbell, with Elizabeth Banks attached to star. "Tink" will be produced by McG. [Variety]
• "Toy Story 3" is expected to be the last in the franchise; however, Tim Allen is under contract to reprise his role as the voice of Buzz Lightyear in a fourth film. [The Wrap]
• "Scream 4" director Wes Craven has confirmed that he will make a cameo in the film: "My crew was wondering what my cameo should be in #SCREAM4. Suggestions? No janitor, doctor or tourist." [Wes Craven]
• Liev Schreiber, who played Sabretooth, says he hasn’t been contacted by the studio to reprise his role in the planned ‘Wolverine’ sequel: "I’d love to do it again, but I think the storyline that they’re going to go with is in Japan. I think part of it, I don’t know — I try not to second-guess the studios, but I feel like sometimes when they make a sequel they have to have a new villain. I haven’t even seen the script." [IGN]
• Isaiah Mustafa (better known as "The Old Spice Guy") says he wants to be Luke Cage: "OK ! I want to be Luke Cage! You have no idea, I mean really, yes. I made a dream board of it and put my face on the comic. I said I want to be Luke Cage one day." [G4TV]
• Jennifer Lawrence has been cast as a younger Mystique in Matthew Vaughn’s "X-Men: First Class". Mystique was played by Rebecca Romijn in the "X-Men" trilogy… [Heat Vision]
• …And in an update to a report from last week, sources have confirmed that Kevin Bacon has indeed joined the cast as an un-named villain. [EW]
• "Transformers 3" producer Lorenzo di Bonaventura commented on the recent departure of actress Megan Fox: "It’s one of those things that built to a pressure point…I think she knew and we did, I think we all tried really hard to make it work together, it just wasn’t working." Bonaventura added that some changes had to be made to the script to account for the departure of Fox and the addition of Rosie Huntington-Whiteley. [ComingSoon.net]

Follow Russ on his website: Your Entertainment Now and on Twitter: Twitter.com/YourEntNow.