Animaniacs
News ArchivedAll the news from Animaniacs and the animated world, are archived here. You may also check our BLOG page for additional information. You never know what Carol or Slappy will think of next!
Updated on August 3, 2009
Visit the following sites:
This is an un-official fan Web Site (Not related to Florida Citrus Sports) that will give some information and pictures about this Holiday and College Bowl event.
The Citrus Parade in Orlando.
Orlando Events Tickets
New York Events Tickets
TV Show Tickets
Iowa Hawkeyes Football Tickets
Thousands of events are on sale and if you have tickets, you can sell those.
Animaniacs
NewsAnimaniacs/Pinky & The Brain DVDs Now on sale!
Animaniacs
in Animated NewsNews Archived 2009:
Another test, but this time MS Office 2007 and new…. Refurbished E-Machines PC… Goodbye “slow mo” DELL PC!
(06-21-09) Yes, Slappy may be glad that I made it thru the DTV
transition! In fact I transitioned with
a new… Refurbished E-Machines PC I got from E-retailer Tiger Direct,
best known
as Comp USA and the new Circuit City Online.
Just got this PC a couple of weeks ago and I’m upgrading
everything and
got rid of the way slow DELL PC I got in 2003.
That PC is no longer suitable for You Tube videos and could not
even add
another program, since it kept updating itself with the 10GB hard drive
and leave
me with a mere 500 MB of space to work the issues.
I mean, that PC was able to survive 3
hurricanes and 2 Greyhound trips between Orlando and Seattle in 2007
and
2008. But now, is time to move on and
add extra space with 160 GB hard drive, instead of 10 GB!
On top of that, the old DELL PC has a Celeron
processor running at 462 MHZ, which could make “Sonic The Hedgehog,” “Road Runner” and “Speedy Gonzalez” to even
laugh at me! SLOW MO!!!!
Now, regarding the Save Animaniacs updates, I will be doing those
from
time to time, but don’t expect me to wake up Slappy every day to find
out what’s
going on! All I can tell is that Slappy
cursed The Orlando Magic during the NBA Finals…
SLAPPY: “Lakers! I love the
Lakers! I just want an autograph of the
Gasoline guy!” (No offense to Pau Gasol,
but he got enough gasoline to defeat the Magic!)
“This is
The Alvin Show, The
Alvin Show on DVD!” (Just sing it!)
(06-21-09) Back in 1961, TV’s across the nation would be turned
on to see
that trio of singing Chipmunks with the often misadventures of “Alvin,”
“Simon”
and “Theodore” having a good time. But,
even after all these years, you wondered, what ever happened to the
original “The
Alvin Show?” I often recall seen this
series around the 1980’s, when NBC started doing the “Alvin & The
Chipmunks”
series, but the original “The Alvin Show” was like fading to black. The series was never released to VHS video or
DVD and quite often, a You Tube video of “The Alvin Show” may pop up,
but
deleted under copyright infringement. However,
there is some hope for you fans of “The Alvin Show,” according to
Viacom’s
Paramount Studios, there are plans to release the first episodes of
“The Alvin
Show” on DVD during the month of September.
This appears to be a sign that the show may be fully released
later in
2010. The September 8, 2009 release, is
a compilation of the first episode of “The Alvin Show” and comes with 2
“Alvin
& The Chipmunks” TV specials (I assume those are the DIC or MWS
episodes
from mid 80’s, since Warner Brothers only has the Ruby-Spears made
episodes.). But, I may assume that
future releases of “The Alvin Show” may come with some extras on it. Now, I don’t expect a “Clyde Crashup” episode
on this release, but if you like to see those, then ask Viacom to
release the
full series on DVD.
Testing on Open Office and new computer coming soon?
(04-23-09) This update is done in Open Office, not on the Netscape's Web Browser editor, as I have been doing for a while. However, there is the possibility of upgrading the old DELL PC that has survived 5 Hurricanes, a trip to Seattle and back to Orlando and yes, is an old Windows 98/XP based PC with a slow Intel Celeron, 256 RAM and 466 MHZ, when all the new PC's are 2 GB RAM and 2.5 GHZ and I'm not that geek to figure out! But, yes, this computer has pass the test of time, but unfortunately, the memory is getting shorter by the minute. In fact, I had to delete some older files and make some extra space on the old 10 GB hard drive (Don't laugh at me, but that is what I bought in 2003! Now the 1 TB hard drive is king!), just to install Open Office, in order to help one of my brothers to do the college materials in it. But, since I thought that having Open Office was a good idea, I decided to give it a test drive and see how it works for editing the Save Animaniacs Campaign page. I also apologize for the lack of updates, but lately there has not been that many news to handle. I may update for the June 12's Analog to DTV switchover later. But, I will most likely get a new computer soon.
Spongebob can't stand BK spoof!
(04-23-09) Spongebob could not stand an ad for BK.... Why not do an ad for “The Krusty Crabs?” The Burger King ad has been heavily criticized by Parent's organizations, due to the explicit content being shown. The ad is mostly run on network TV during the prime time hours. It has been seen on sporting events, from Major League Baseball to the NBA Playoffs (Gooo Magic!) and some reality shows. But not seen on Cartoon Network or Nickelodeon to be exact. The reason, of course, it shows some models with the “Burger King” guy, doing a rap song. But, the nasty part, is causing some bad reactions. Just to place squared things inside your pants, sounds too crazy to show to a kid 7 to 12 years old. Burger King Corporation explained that the ad was aimed to adult audience and would only be shown on Prime Time Network TV. I got it, but why show it at the time, kids are watching the NBA Playoffs or American Idol to be exact? Anyway, the ad was to promote the Spongebob Squarepants Toys in the Burger King's Kids Menu. Does that makes you hungry?
Is Disney returning to the old days of Walt? Is “EARTH” at his best!
(04-23-09) Maybe is me, but it looks like Disney may be returning to the days of late Walt Disney era, where the family flicks where the best looking performers. But, I'm not talking of the computer generated PIXAR content. But, remember or, your parents even remember the old Disney classics, being narrated by Walt Disney himself?
Take a look to a new Disney movie that came in on Earth Day! Is called “Earth” and it gave me the impression that I was watching 1960's Disney styled movie, made in a natural and real environment with no scripts attached, no computer generated movie and no crazy punch lines that could hurt the most sensible watcher. So, for those of you that recall watching “The March of The Penguins”, you are right, Disney is targeting that audience, but this one has more than a simple march.
However, it was Walt Disney himself, after the 1940's release of “Bambi,” that took the idea of filming real wildlife at his best and portrayed into the movie screens, whenever it was a short, before an animated classic, or as part of the “Wonderful World of Disney” TV series, back in the 60's or 70's. Then of course, a familiar voice is narrating the movie. No other than James Earl Jones (“This is CNN!”) of “The Lion King” fame, is giving audiences a glimpse of what earth's creatures endures every day to survive our world. Kinda like an animal version of “The Amazing Race” and “Survivor” would offer!
Of course, “Earth” is not your typical “Happy Ending” movie, like “Hanna Montana!” Since this is an unscripted movie or simply put as reality movie, where every creature must endure survival, in order to live (Remember “The Lion King”, when Mufasa got killed in an stampede?), so you may expect some violent moment and that may hit the sensible ones. Even the movie got a G rating, because it is not that violent, but there is a moment where an animal will attack another one to survive. But, you may like to get your kids to see a family tradition that even Walt Disney created and wanted to endure for generations to come.
Coming
soon... The Nick JR
Network? Oh Dora!
(03-17-09) Here comes, more network switch over... This
time, is
the new Nick JR Network, who will take over The Noggin Network.
Just
recently, Disney converted the Toon Disney Network and rebranded as
Disney XD
Network. Now is Nickelodeon's turn, to give Dora The Explorer and
The
Backyardigans, their own 24/7 Network. Now, wait a second... Did
Noggin
was already doing the Nick JR shows already? Just like Dora's
cousin
Diego (Go Diego, Go!) says: "What did you know?" I just wonder,
when Nickelodeon, will become a 24/7 Network and dump the Nick At Night
Block? Of course, Nick at Night is mostly the TV Land Network, so
you get
the idea!
Disney dumps The Power Rangers..... ?????!!!!
(03-17-09) Oh my! What had Disney done in a bad economy?
Just found
out, that Disney has decided to get rid of one of the most powerful
properties
ever done. The once powerful Mighty Morphin Power Rangers (Ever
wonder
why Animaniacs did a Power Ranger spoof?), has ceased to exist,
according to
reports posted in entertainment media.
Now, this is not new-news to me, but already it was to come, as the
series,
being filmed in New Zealand, based on the Japanese property "Tokusatsu
Super Sentai" has become a low rating series, since Disney took the
show,
as part of the Saban's ABC Family property acquisition in 2001 and on
top of
that, FOX Networks announced the end of the FOX KIDS block, in 2002.
The series was first produced in 1993 and after 17 seasons with 670+
episodes
and 2 movies, is one of the longest running TV series, behind popular
series,
like The Simpsons and Pokemon, to name a few. But, guess
what? The
Power Rangers has been around, but not all of us was watching it!
Besides, Disney took the show, to the ABC KIDS's Saturday Morning
block.
However, lots of ABC affiliates did choose not to show the Power
Rangers,
instead opting for local news or paid programing! Yes FOX, you
have
company! The Power Rangers has also been shown on Toon Disney
(Disney XD)
and Jetix. Sadly, the days of "Go Go Power Rangers" are coming
to an end, courtesy of the Mouse himself! By the way, I still
assuming
that the person that brought the Power Rangers to FOX in 1993, is now
trying to
understand the Spanish Language, since he owns the Univision
Network!
YAKKO: "Yes Hain Saban, 'Se habla español!'"
Sesame
Workshops gets pink
slips too? Elmo's World!
(03-17-09) The bad economy, continues to strike... We need Hay
Pennies! Comes world from Elmo, that Sesame Workshops, the
creators of
Sesame Street, has pink slipped some employees in their corporate
offices. While, the TV show will not be affected by the outcome
of the
pink slip syndrome, the bad economy continues to take a toll on the
popular
children's property itself. Not to mention that Mickey Mouse is
sending
more pink slips already too!
Spielberg, you are going to Disney! But not the Sibs?
(02-08-09) Just like in the Animaniacs short "This Pun For
Hire!" Steven Spielberg is going to Disney...
YAKKO: "There's a Mouse in my drink!"
As expected, Disney has agreed to take the Dreamworks Studio, lead by
the
Animaniacs creator. In exchange, Disney will receive a 9% Percent
profit
from any Dreamworks Studio film that Disney releases, under the
Touchstone
Pictures label. However, Spielberg will still be doing business
with
Universal, since he still has the Dreamworks Studio office in Los
Angeles and
also, will continue as part of the Universal Theme Park's Advisor
board.
The deal would bring Disney, to a major deal, since the takeover of the
PIXAR
Studios and would put the Mouse House in a competitive field regarding
major
motion pictures release during the Summer season.
But, no Sibs will be allowed at Cinderella's Castle? I would love
if
there was a deal with Warner Brothers. Would have reunited
Spielberg with
the Animaniacs! But, Mickey Mouse cheated on Yakko! "Sorry
Bob!"
DOT: "Mouse! Go fig!"
Universal makes PINK SLIP to Dreamworks!
DOT: "Who are those guys?"
YAKKO: "The stuff Dreamworks are made off!"
(Quote from: "This
Pun For Hire")
(02-08-09) The signs of bad economy times, had yet to take another
toll, this
time on Steven Spielberg's own Dreamworks Studio, who was in
partnership with
Universal Studios. However, the entertainment giant, citing
financial
issues, decided to PINK SLIP the Dreamworks Studios and shows them, out
the
door!
What this means? If you thought of a Transformers 2 movie, I
think it is
more likely dead.... Did you
read the
blog about Microsoft derailing the Flight/Train Simulator
game? The
same derailment here, with Universal and Dreamworks!
Thought there are some rumors than needs to be verified, citing that
Dreamworks
was apparently working on a Disney deal, but no word from the Mouse
House has
been verified. Amid the fact that Dreamworks was co-created by
Spielberg,
with David Geffen and former Disney executive Jeffrey Katzenberg, which
departed Disney after a bad relationship with now former chairman
Michael
Einsner.
However, this could mean that Dreamworks would seek a partnership with
a major
studio.... Could that be Warner Brothers? "I heard there is
a
mouse on my drink!" I'll kept you posted!
DTV delayed and confusing!
(02-08-09) Well, the Save Animaniacs Campaign has been partnered with
the
National Campaign for the Digital TV transition for over a year and we
have
promoted the Analog to DTV switch for quite some time, since my days in
Seattle
WA and my return to Orlando FL. The date that was originally set
for
February 17, 2009, has been delayed by the Congress and President
Barack
Obama. Now the new date is set for June 12, 2009.
However, the new date set has created more confusion than what is going
on right
now. While over 90% of the US population is aware of the DTV
transition,
the Nielsen Rating system tells a different story. There are more
than 6
million households that are not ready to switch the Analog TV to
DTV. In
fact, there are more than 3 million request for DTV converter boxes, or
better
known as the $40 dollars coupon to discount the cost of the DTV
converter,
which retails for $50+ dollars. The problem is, there is more
demand than
coupons available, so if you try to get a DTV coupon, chances are, that
you may
have to pay out of pocket for the converter box.
Other options are to buy a new TV set that receives Digital signals,
which cost
somewhere in the $129.00 level or less, or subscribe to Cable TV to
receive the
local channels, which cost somewhere in the $15 to $25 dollars a month
for
basic or limited cable TV (You get with basic limited cable, the local
channels, but no Nickelodeon or Food Network). Still the law,
will give
you until June 12, to get ready for the Digital TV switch. But,
there is
a catch!
Since the new law, does not commit any full power or local TV station
to stay
on Analog, after February 17, 2009, any TV station can request the
Federal
Communications Commission or FCC, to let them switch to Digital
broadcast, on February
17, or earlier than June 12, 2009. In fact, dozens of TV stations
in key
markets have requested the FCC to let them switch to DTV by next week,
on the
17th. Most of the Network owned channels will stay on Analog
until June
12.
So again, make sure that your TV is DTV ready. If you have Cable
TV like
me, you don't need to worry about this. This only applies to the
older TV
sets that gets a TV signal with the cursed "Wabbit Ears" like Bugs
Bunny!
"What's up Doc? DTV ready?"
Disney dumps Narnia? Fox rescues the Lion's tale!
(02-08-09) Like the signs of bad economy are nowhere to fade
out, just
last December, in a quiet mode, Disney decided to stop financing the
Walden
Media's well known "Chronicles of Narnia" movie franchise.
While the movie was having some financial set backs at the box office,
after
the "Prince of Caspian" release, there where some questioning, if the
3rd installment in the C.S. Lewis novel based movie, would see the
light, after
executives with Disney thought that the cost of making the movie was
not in
their best interest. (Get the stimulus checks?)
Thought Walden Media is currently in the planning phase of the next
installment, based on "The Voyage of Dawn Treader's" book, the fact
is that 20th Century Fox may give "Narnia" a try. As long as
Aslan the Lion does not get the "Bart Simpson's" look on the next
movie.... "Doh!"
BREAKING NEWS: Cookie Jar breaks deal with American
Greetings! No
merger with Arthur and Strawberry Shortcake?
(01-07-09) What? American Greetings is no longer a partner
with
Cookie Jar Entertainment? What did Arthur (PBS KIDS) had to say
about
breaking out with Strawberry Shortcake and The Care Bears?
ARTHUR: "Aaaaaaaawwwwww!"
DW: "Geez Arthur! I told you those bears are not friendly!"
Now, just to refresh you all on this mess, last June, Cookie Jar
Entertainment,
agreed to purchase the DIC animated library. However, the library
also
included the animated series Strawberry Shortcake, Care Bears and Sushi
Pack. As a result of this, card maker American Greetings,
challenged in
Ohio State Courts, the merger of the above properties with Canadian
based
Cookie Jar, without a negotiation from AG. Then in July, American
Greetings and Cookie Jar Entertainment, agreed on the characters being
sell off
to Cookie Jar. The deal, that was supposed to be approved last
fall, has
been kept on hold. Now, comes word that the 2 sides decided to
call off
the merger.
What this means, is that The Care Bears and Strawberry Shortcake, will
not go
to the Canadians, as first thought. Still I wonder if Disney or
Warner
Brothers, will try to make a deal for the characters, or will still
remain
under the American Greetings brand? More to come! But,
Arthur is
not happy!
VIACOM scuffle with Time Warner and Bright House is over, but who pays
the
broken glass?
(01-01-09) The new year 2009, came and saw a big
surprise!
It was adverted the removal of the 19 Viacom owned channels MTV/Comedy
Central/Nickelodeon, from Cable TV giant Time Warner Cable and Advance
Newhouse's Bright House Networks (Which I rename it The Asterisk
Networks,
since they keep showing those Asterisk commercials in the Orlando and
Tampa
markets!). The networks where not removed by midnight of January
1st, so
MTV was still showing the Time Square's big ball drop, while Spongebob
Squarepants and Jon Steward where still making fun of themselves at
Nickelodeon
and Comedy Central.
So, how did it happened? Word is that a deal regarding fee
increase to
Cable subscribers was placed on the table and both Time Warner and
Bright House
where not satisfied with it. Then VIACOM started a guerilla
campaign tactic, by showing a crying Dora The Explorer, embracing his
pal Boots
The Monkey. A headline with a question that reads "Why is Dora
crying?" and then reads Time Warner or Bright House Networks will drop
off
19 Viacom channels, including Nickelodeon. The ad was inserted on
The New
York Times, The LA Times and even Tampa Tribune and Orlando Sentinel in
Florida. The ads where followed by 800 toll free numbers to
either Time
Warner or Bright House customer service numbers.
It appears the pressure mounted by VIACOM, has made the Cable providers
to
negotiate a fee increase in the next month or 2, but details of the
deal where
not revealed. However, I ask myself, "Who is paying the broken
glass?" The cable TV subscriber is the one that pays and
therefore,
must decide, which channels the subscriber wants, instead of the cable
TV
companies having to negotiate and even take down channels, while the
customer
has little or no choice at all. So, I guess for now, greedy
VIACOM is
singing like Dora The Explorer...
"WE DID IT! WE DID IT! YAY!!!!"
News Archived 2008:
VIACOM, TIME WARNER AND BRIGHT HOUSE...
(12-31-08) There are like 20+ million customers in the USA that are crying with Dora The Explorer and Spongebob Squarepants, at the same time, in New York City, the greedy trio of VIACOM (Owner of Nickelodeon, MTV and Comedy Central), Cable Operators Time Warner and "The *Asterisk Network*" (!!!!) known as Bright House Networks (Advance Newhouse, owners of Discovery Networks and parent company to Bright House), are in a last minute negotiation, that if unsuccessful, will force the removal of all the VIACOM channels from both, Time Warner and Bright House Network's Cable Services, after Midnight (12:00 AM) of January 1st, 2009.
Yay Colberg! You nailed! Comedy Central's "The Colberg Report" will bring New Years day to the greedy ones, but the ones in the Time Warner and Bright House 20+ million customers, who wants to see cute Spongebob and Go Diego, Go fading away in a black screen... What is going on here? Slappy is not happy.... Thank goodness that Animaniacs is not on Nick Toons anymore, or Slappy would have sent the bomb squad to the greedy Viacom's office! So, VIACOM, TIME WARNER AND ****** ASTERISK HOUSE, you all have the last word!
"See how bright, life can be?" Don't even tell me to pay for dark channels I can't see Bright House Networks!
The Blog will return in 2009!
(12-17-08) Where you missing the Save Animaniacs Blog? I have good news! The Save Animaniacs Blog will resume in January 2009. I did not updated the blog in a long time and my intention was to delete the whole blog and start it all over again. Besides, is taking more space and most of the news I posted in the blog where older news, from my days in Orlando and my days in Seattle WA. You probably found out that the Seattle Sonics are now playing in Oklahoma! I posted that like 7 months back, before I returned to Florida. But, I will start feeding the blog by January 1st, 2009.
We remember Madeleine "Meowth" Blaustein
(12-17-08) Sadly, the world of both Animation and Voice Acting has lost a talented woman, who gave voice to our beloved Pokemon "Meowth" and "Corphish" (This was before the Cartoon Network's new voice cast for Pokemon took over).
According to the 4KIDS Entertainment's Web Site, Voice Actress Madeleine Blaustein, who took part of the voice cast of both "Pokemon" and "Yu-Gi-Oh," along with other animated 4KIDS series, passed away recently, due to an illness she was suffering. Blaustein was 48. Our thoughts and prayers goes out to her family and friends.
Cable TV snafu in Orlando? Where is Charlie Brown?
(12-10-08) There where reports of a major cable TV meltdown around Orlando FL last Monday, December 8, 2008. There was supposed to be the night that Charlie Brown Christmas TV special would broadcast on ABC TV, along with the final episode of the "PriceLine" Negotiator..... Wrong ad! The last episode of Boston Legal, which do have William "PriceLine" Shatner on it!
But, the snafu from Cable TV provider Bright House Networks came as a major hurricane and took over the thousands of Cable TV customers that wanted to see what Christmas is all about with Charlie Brown! Yes, the Mickey Mouse Network was screaming foul over the digital cable converter that was unable to read their signal, because according to Bright House Networks, there was a corrupt program that could not feed correctly the digital smart boxes like DVRs and HD converters. So, those of you in Orlando, that found out that Charlie Brown Christmas could not be seen, because of a cable TV meltdown, you are not alone!
LINUS: "That's what Christmas is all about, Charlie Brown! Fear not, the major cable meltdown!"
"See how bright life can be?" Yeah right! At least my internet from Bright House was working fine!
Pink slips for Dora The Explorer's animators?
(12-10-08) If the US Congress can bail out Wall Street and the Automotive Industry in Detroit, why they can't bail out the Animation Industry? Yes, the bad economy is taking more than the auto and banking fields. Now is taking toll on the Entertainment Industry! It has come to the attention, that VIACOM the Entertainment giant will start laying off over 800 employees and they will shut down the Nickelodeon's Animation Studio in New York City. The studio is currently animating "Dora The Explorer" and "Go Diego, Go!" However, VIACOM says that the production of the shows will continue.... I guess in Asia? Canada? Russia? Mexico? But not in USA! Wow!
FOX TV says "No More Cartoons!" Info-Mercials!
(11-24-08) An update to our breaking news story, regarding FOX TV ending the Saturday Morning block, being populated by 4KIDS TV animated series. FOX TV has stated and according to The New York Times, that after January, all the Saturday Morning block from 8:00 AM to Noon, will consist of NO CARTOONS, but, INFO-MERCIALS! Oh great! Here comes the "Cricut" machine to take over Sonic X! No pun intended for Provo Carft's info-mercial about the "Cricut" cutter... But why is FOX TV selling the children's block being left out by 4KIDS anyway?
According to FOX TV, they stated that the Saturday Morning Children's block was no longer viable, due to the high competition made by the Cable TV outlets, in reference to Cartoon Network, Nickelodeon and Disney Channel. Did they ever mentioned that it was because of The CW taking over the 4KIDS animated shows like "Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles" and "Winx Club" out of the network? FOX TV also stated that at least 2 hours of the weekend morning block may be given to local FOX or My Network affiliates to find out, if they will find FCC's E/I content or will switch between local news or will utilize the 4KIDS empty content with more info-mercials?
SLAPPY: "Where ruined!"
YAKKO: "Is the end of civilization as we know it!"
Believe me! Is not over, till is over and the fat toon sings! Who wants to buy the "Cricut"?
BREAKING NEWS: 4KIDS cancels FOX, sending "Chaotic" and other shows to The CW 4KIDS
(11-11-08) We're following breaking news.... This is CNN? It has come to our attention, that FOX TV Network has decided to cancel the Weekend Morning block that is currently owned by 4KIDS Entertainment, known as "FOX/4KIDS TV The Game Station." This means that if you where watching "Chaotic," "Winx Club" and "Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtle's Fast Forward," those shows may end up in the CW 4KIDS Block.... Please, please, don't take out those Russian guys, known as "GoGoRiki" (SmeShaRiki)!
The fact is that FOX TV has agreed to end the "FOX/4KIDS TV The Game Station" weekend morning block earlier than expected. 4KIDS Entertainment will reimburse FOX TV for the rights of broadcast of the "Game Station" shows, that where supposed to be broadcast until September 2009. Now, the FOX/4KIDS TV block will end on December 27, 2008. So, after January 2009, FOX TV will have to either find another children TV provider to fulfill the FCC mandated "E/I" programing, or simply give the rights to the local FOX affiliates and most likely, they will start with more "Paid Programing" or local news on weekend morning.
So, my question is: Where is Chaotic and the rest of the "Game Station" shows that 4KIDS was showing on FOX TV? Of course, I will tell, that it will go to The CW 4KIDS block. But, only Chaotic may be accommodate in the CW block. That will leave the other shows like "Winx Club" and "TMNT Back to The Sewer" in the "Off Season" waiting list. In case, The CW runs out of "Spider Man," "Viva Piñata" or "GoGoRiki", there will be some shows waiting, courtesy of the former "FOX/4KIDS TV The Game Station's" cancellation.
President Obama, are you going to Disney?
(11-6-08) OK folks! Enough of the Election coverage. There is no need for re-counts in Florida. Slappy Squirrel may re-count all her jokes that where recycled during the Election coverage on all the major networks. Who needs Florida? Where are the hanging chads? Where is Mickey Mouse? Did he got any votes on the "write in" column? Wait! I hear Donald Duck got more votes in the process!
Seriously! America has democratically chosen the next President to lead the USA. Americans went to the polls and choose Democratic candidate and State of Illinois, Senator Barack Obama to be the 44th President of the United States. So, congratulations to President Elected Barack Obama and good luck on your new position of "Commander in Chief" and hope to see you in Mickey Mouse land! Yes! Obama will be at Disney..... As part of the Magic Kingdom's "Hall of Presidents" attraction, of course! Seriously, will the real Obama may appear at Disney?
Actually, Disney is refurbishing the "Hall of Presidents" attraction and will not be open until the 4th of July Holiday, so you may have to wait to see the "Animatronic" Barack Obama on it. Yes! Mickey Mouse can!
Saving "King of The Hill" by, "Ugly Betty" TV!
(11-6-08) Just as FOX TV is getting rid of the hit TV animated comedy "King of The Hill," rumor has it, that the "Ugly Betty" Network, known as ABC TV, is considering taking the animated staple and pair it with another animated series set to debut in 2009 and produced by the creator of "King of The Hill" himself, Mike Judge.
The 13 year old animated series was not renewed by FOX TV and although the animated sitcom will still be running in 2009, is more likely the show may go to ABC TV and the current FOX TV series will go to "Adult Swim" on Cartoon Network. This according to several sources, including AWN and Variety.
Now, where you think is "Hank" and "Bobby" going to be on? You be the judge... Not Mike Judge!
(11-6-08) An annual tradition, comes to celebrate the 82nd year with dozens of stars and the traditional character balloons and floats traveling along Broadway Street in New York City. Of course, I'm talking about the Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade. Taking place on November 27, 2008 and seen on NBC and Spanish Telemundo TV Networks, the parade is coming with dozens of surprises for all the family and of course the welcoming of the Holiday tradition with no other than Santa Claus himself.
The parade this year, will feature new Balloons from some well know characters. Debuting in 2008, will be the Smurf Balloon to commemorate the 50th anniversary of the blue guy by Peyo (See the Archive section for the 50th Anniversary of the Smurfs). Other balloons entering the parade, will be "Horton" the Elephant from Dr Seuss's Children classic "Horton Hears a Who" and Disney's "Buzz Light Year" from "Toy Story." They will join "Dora The Explorer," "Abby Cadabby," "Snoopy" and "Pikachu" among other balloons on parade.
Also, the floats and musical stars are part of the big celebration. 2008 American Idol, David Archuleta and "Hanna Montana's" Miley Cirrus and The Cheetah Girls, will join along with new Floats from "Disney's Bolt," "Ocean Spray's Woodland Family," "Oneida Nation," "The Smurf-tastic World of Smurfs" and "Princess Academy Castle of Dreams." They will join returning floats from "123 Sesame Street," "Build A Bear," "Foster's Home for Imaginary Friends," "Snoopy's Doghouse" and I heard that Westminster's Dog Champion, "Uno The Beagle" may be taking over Snoopy's house! Of course, after the Macy's parade is over, NBC will showcase Uno and dozens of pure breed dogs at the annual Westminster Dog Show, so go figure why Snoopy is jealous!
(10-13-08) Today is supposed to be the Columbus Day or Discovery Day whichever you know it is, but instead, we discovered that a well known bear celebrates his 50 golden years of entertaining children around the world. The lovable Paddington Bear created by Michael Bond, debuted in a children's book on October 13, 1958. The book tells the story of an immigrant bear who came to London from the "Darkest" Peru with some marmalade sandwiches and a note from his aunt Lucy telling "Please take care of this bear" on it. Well, the children's literature has been one of the most lovable books ever conceived and of course after half a century of millions of children reading the story of the mischievous bear, here at Save Animaniacs Campaign, we salute our favorite child icon, the great Paddington Bear.
(10-13-08) I got hooked on a cartoon made in Russia! Yes, you read! Not a cartoon from Japan like Pokemon would made me that happy. But I got hooked on the first ever Russian animated TV series in USA Television. The new series called "GoGoRiki" or "SmeShaRiki" in the native Russia, was premiered on The CW4KIDS block that used to be the old KIDS WB from the now defunct THE WB Network. Now that 4KIDS Entertainment owns the Saturday morning block on The CW, they simply moved some of the shows they had on the FOX TV Network under the "4KIDS Game Station TV" banner, like "Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles" and "Viva Piñata." But here comes a new breed of animated comedy straight from Moscow, to be added to the Saturday Morning block, replacing good old "Tom & Jerry Tales" and "Johnny Test" which more likely will be repeated on Cartoon Network.
What's more strange is that these guys (Smeshariki) are more famous than "Spongebob Squarepants" and "Dora The Explorer" already! They have millions of fans across the Russian and European countries and they are even compared to Pokemon with merchandise distribution and even live shows are done across Europe and Russia. Even there are plans of a theme park like Disney World in the works. Yes, a SmeShariki theme park in Moscow (According to Wikipedia) could happen in the next year or two. But for now, let's see how the "GoGoRiki" or SmeShaRiki characters works their Russian magic in the USA. To tell you the truth... I LOVE IT!!!!
Not a lots of updates.... Bill Melendez tribute
(09-14-08) There is not much news, but I did make the update, because Hurricane Ike has left lots of devastation in Houston, Texas. I have provided with links to the Red Cross web site, if you like to donate some help to the people in need right now, just go up to the top and click on the banner. You can also use the mobile phone to make a donation to the Red Cross. Please help the good people in the Gulf region. By the way, since the Gulf Coast is in trouble, you know what that means.... High Gas Prices! How much? $5 dollars a gallon! I thought this was Seattle all over and I am still in Orlando FL...
Also, since I was away from the computer, found out that legendary Disney animator Bill "J.C" Melendez passed away early in September, so our thoughts and prayers for his family and friends. This man was the pen and pencil of "The Peanuts Gang" on the Holiday Classic "A Charlie Brown Christmas" and all the animated TV specials and TV series "Charlie Brown & Snoopy Show." His career at Disney, gave life to Dumbo and as a Warner Brothers animator, he worked on Bugs Bunny and Porky Pig. He also collaborate on the QUBO TV series "Babar" (Originally made for HBO?) and the animated "Garfield" TV series that had the late voice actor Lorenzo Music as the lazy cat himself. Also, did you know that it was Melendez who voiced "Snoopy" the Beagle on all the animated works? "Blah blah blah!" Sure he will be missed!
Nancy Cartwright talks to Pinky and Honda's "Mr Opportunity" Rob Paulsen
(08-25-08) "I'm Mr. Opportunity and still knocking!" Well, it looks a free plug for the car maker Honda, but the fact is that "Mr. Opportunity" is actually voiced by Pinky and Yakko! Animation Word Magazine (AWN) features an interview made by voice actress Nancy "Bart/Mindy" Cartwright to Emmy winner voice actor Rob Paulsen and tells the story on how a pitch made by the Japanese car maker Honda, gave light to the animated sales man.
"Are you pondering what I'm pondering?"
"I think so Brain, I got knocked again by the car seller on TV!"
SLAPPY: "Now that's comedy!"
Dora The Explorer is getting makeover and voice change ala Pokemon!
(08-25-08) They say "Cheap is better" or so to say...
Turns out that Nickelodeon is revealing a makeover for the ever popular property known as "Dora The Explorer." The "Latina" hero is being revamped for a new look... (Hello "Rugrats All Grown Up"?) and on top of that, a new voice cast is in the works.... Pika? According to the Nickelodeon's Senior Vice President of Production and Development for Nickelodeon's Pre-school TV, Teri Weiss, states "Our Cast has just gotten too old for their parts.." No joke! This was from the Nickelodeon's corporate headquarters.
Is Nickelodeon going the cheap way, like the Nintendo's own "Pokemon USA" who took the voice cast out of 4KIDS Entertainment and replace it with their own cast, making the Pokemon episodes on Cartoon Network, simply unbearable to hear? Is "Dora The Explorer" becoming the victim of voice cast swiping?
"Swiper, no swiping! Oh Man!"
Disney may or may not own Mickey Mouse, according to the LA Times
(08-25-08) Disney is not happy about the LA Times point of views, regarding his property, but according to an article, there is the probability that Mickey Mouse done in the 1920's, may not be owned by Disney at all.
Where talking about the first Mickey Mouse, as seen on the 1928 animated classic "Steamboat Willie." Disney claims they own the rights to the cartoon, but there is some loop-hole that needs to be seen and since the copyright dilemma still lingers on, is not yet known if at any moment, the rights to the first Mickey Mouse character, may have been lost by the Disney Company, meaning that the Mickey Mouse from the past, may be a public domain, which Disney still denies until this day.
Update from Orlando FL
(07-28-08) This is the first update made from Orlando FL. It took a while to re-start all over in Central Florida, but now, is time to continue the show! Thanks for waiting!
Back to American Greetings for a moment...
(07-28-08) The last month's update was that American Greetings said no, to the proposed merger from Cookie Jar Entertainment and DIC Entertainment, regarding the Strawberry Shortcake and The Care Bears going to be part of the makers of PBS Kids series "Arthur" and "Calliou". However, Cookie Jar Entertainment made an offer to buy the rights to both Strawberry Shortcake and The Care Bears, from American Greetings, valued at $195 Million Dollars and American Greetings gave the green light for both DIC and Cookie Jar to merge in one company. So this means that in the future, "The Care Bears" will visit "Arthur" for a friendly chat.... Yeah! Dream about it PBS KIDS!
Pay attention Save Animaniacs Fans:
Florida Trip is becoming reality!
(06-26-08) Yes! Where going back to Orlando FL. This will be my last update from Seattle/Bellevue Washington State. Good Bye Space Needle and Puget Sound! It was a nice experience... Minus the Super Sonic going to Oklahoma with Kevin Durant... I have good memories from the land of Microsoft and Starbucks, but my hearth still pounding to see Mickey Mouse and the gang at Disney, so the time has come for me to say Good Bye Seattle and thanks for the best memories I ever had. Next Stop is Orlando FL and until I get Bright House Cable TV on the new place, the Internet may not be accessed by myself and may not update the Save Animaniacs site for a while. Hope to "Sib" you soon!
SLAPPY: "I'll go, on Stink-Bomb Bus! Where getting you stinky! Now that's comedy"
Apologies to Greyhound.... I wonder why I posted the "Smell Ya Later" episode?
DIC to join Cookie Jar? American Greetings says NO!
The makers of "Arthur" got a blow, by the card making company, after agreeing to purchase DIC Entertainment
(06-21-08) Well, it looks like the Canadians are greeting with "bad karma" the legal blow out by the card maker American Greetings Corporation. The reason is, that Cookie Jar Entertainment made an offer to the DIC Entertainment group to merge with the Canadian makers of "Arthur" (The PBS cartoon) and to continue marketing on some of the DIC properties like Strawberry Shortcake and Inspector Gadget to name a few.
However, American Greetings challenged the merger plans on Ohio State's Court, under the allegation that DIC did not consulted AG over plans to sell the company. The deal would have cost some $31.5 million dollars and would allow both DIC and Cookie Jar to share the revenues created by the DIC library of characters.
Since both, AG and DIC had agreed, on the rights to the Strawberry Shortcake character, to be used under DIC and as pre-condition, DIC cannot sell themselves to another company without consulting AG first. Now AG claims that DIC violated the stipulated contract and AG was told about the merger, after it was completed. So what does this means? Will Strawberry Shortcake join Arthur or will American Greetings take away the greetings out of DIC? I wonder if the Canadians will start boycotting the American Greetings brand? Is Berry Berry Bad Karma!
Speaking of Strawberry Shortcake, I read that the franchise will be re-launch in 2009, but the question is, if DIC will continue doing it, or will use another company, as result of this bad PR stunt made by Cookie Jar? You be the judge! Did I ever mentioned that DIC was being eyed by AG last year for a buy out? Go figure!
What's happening with CW and 4KIDS?
The now defunct KIDS WB is getting a mirror of the FOX 4KIDS Saturday Morning block! Is CW 4KIDS!
(06-16-08) Maybe is me, but is that really possible to make a mirror out of the once home to Animaniacs, known as KIDS WB? Well, this is what it's going on at the now CW 4KIDS Saturday Morning Block that took over KIDS WB early in May. But, now, comes word that 4KIDS Entertainment will start sending some of the FOX 4KIDS shows back to CW 4KIDS during the Summer time. One of them, is Yu-Gi-Oh! Yes, Yu-Gi-Oh was the most talk about show in the old KIDS WB format, preceded by a former 4KIDS staple, known as Pokemon. Sadly, Nintendo took the 4KIDS out of Pokemon, so the little that 4KIDS could have now, is "Viva Piñata" and "Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles" to name a few. However, those are the ones that eventually will migrate to the CW Network....
That is of course, if The CW does not shut down, as rumors indicate the network is going to disband itself, due to low ratings. In fact, Tyra Banks will buy out some of the Sunday night schedules at the network, for extra showings of her "America's Next Top Model".... Wanna be on top? You bet!
But, 4KIDS Entertainment will bring back for the CW4KIDS block, new episodes of TMNT and Yu-Gi-Oh in the fall 2008. Sadly, you will not see "Tom & Jerry Tales" as the show will migrate to Cartoon Network and share the space with the former KIDS WB/4KIDS king known as Pokemon! Too bad that the old voice cast is no longer voicing the Pokemon series, but will still voicing Yu-Gi-Oh! Seto Kaiba sounds like Bulbasaur? Ask Eric Stuart! Lol!
(06-11-08) Yes, I know! I keep forgetting that I have and must have to update Save Animaniacs Campaign every often, but I will not tell you when an update will come, unless Slappy Squirrel says to do so, so at the request of America's favorite Squirrel.... "For crying out loud!" Here goes!
Smurfing a movie with The Smurfs
Sony will do a movie featuring the blue things from the 80's.... Wait! Are the Smurfs 50's?
(06-11-08) If you recall an early update, yes the Smurfs are not really 80's icon as most Americans thing they are, when the characters where originally created in the mid 50's. But, the blue like characters will have something to cheer about and is a new movie deal with giant entertainment Sony Pictures. Beat that Warner Brothers, who got the rights to the Hanna-Barbera animated "The Smurfs" series.
Actually, Sony cut off a deal with the Belgium based Lafig Belgium S.A for the rights to make a movie featuring a computer animated version of The Smurfs and quite possible, some real actors along their sides, similar to the "Alvin & The Chipmunks" movie made by 20th Century Fox, which combined the computer animated "Alvin, Simon & Theodore" with actor Jason Lee as "David Seville", thought the voice of Alvin was always made by Ross Bagdasarian Jr, the son of late creator of The Chipmunk's Ross "Dave Seville" Bagdasarian Sr.
But, I wonder if a real actor will do the "Gargamel" villain of the series or will they make a live version of the Johan and Pewit characters that made The Smurfs that famous? Time will tell, so will give details of the movie soon.
Wall-E or Short Circuit? You be the judge!
Is there a problem with The Lion King and Kimba The White Lion that we never knew?
(06-11-08) By now, you should have seen those strange Disney ads where a "Short Circuit" like robot has been seen wandering your TV Screen... Did I ever mentioned, is that "Number 5" or "Johnny 5"?
Or how about.... Is that ET in a Disney fashion? Whatever you believe it is, you will have to wait until June 27 to find out if the Disney/Pixar's new feature called "Wall-E" will make you remember those 80's movie like ET or Short Circuit all together? Yet, the ads are kind of cute, but makes you wonder.... By now I was thinking of The Lion King and the Japanese "Kimba The White Lion" all over again!
New Pokemon Episode came to honor an older episode in Japan?
(04-17-08) Believe it or not, came a new episode of the ever popular "Pokemon" series, now in it's 11th year running on Cartoon Network (Minus the original voices!) and it all appears to be, that most of the series will be based on the first generation of Pokemon. What are we talking about? Well, we know Pikachu and Ash the trainer of the series for over 10 years. You may remember, when the series came out with a controversy regarding the use of visual effects, that sent dozens of kids to hospitals, after an episode of the Japanese Anime was shown.
Just to mention, that the new series is based, on the "Diamond And Pearl" Pokemon Series. But, it may have some episodes that will flash back to the late 90's when the series came out and started the phenomenon. As a matter of fact, came an episode that pays a tribute to a 1997 episode known as "Electric Shock Showdown/Kuchiba Gym" from Season 1 (Episode 14) or Indigo League. The show has been seen on both KIDS WB and Cartoon Network's Boomerang. What is the episode about? The "Pikachu" vs "Raichu" fight.
Why the remake? I really don't know! I just found interesting that the Japanese makers of Pokemon are trying to flash back some of the new Pokemon followers. Well, the new version of the episode which is the 542 in the series and has the title "Pikachu and Raichu, the Evolution" was seen recently in Japan, but has not yet been featured in the Cartoon Network's series yet, since it is pending of translation. I saw the episode on the You Tube web site, but I'm not posting it, since it was removed over copyright, so good luck in finding it. But who knows, maybe the banned episode of the "Porygon Soldier" (Episode 38) that caused epilepsy, could be remade too! Pika!
PSA to have "Veggie Tales" and Qubo characters?
New PSA to feature "Veggie Tales" and some Olympic Stars to help prevent child obesity
(04-17-08) A new set of TV ads or PSA's created by The Ad Council, will showcase the "Qubo" characters from Classic Media, which includes "Veggie Tales" and "3-2-1 Penguins" as well as Scholastic's "Jane and The Dragon." The intention of the ads is to remind kids and parents about the child obesity and how to get into a healthy lifestyle. Other ads from The Ad Council had featured Disney Characters and Shrek Characters with the same message. The ads are going to be showcased on NBC, ION and Telemundo in the future.
(Where is Telemundo? I have not see the channel since I left Orlando. All I have is Univision! This is Seattle?)
Earth Day with Captain Planet on Boomerang
90's TV series returns for an "Earth friendly" message and word is that a new movie will come soon
(04-17-08) "By your powers combined, I'm Captain Planet!" Ever remember that catchy phrase during the early 90's, as the TV series created by media mogul Ted Turner, about the 5 kids summoned by The Spirit of the Earth known as "Gaiia" with a mission of saving the Earth from contamination, using 5 rings that combined will bring to life the Earth's hero? Huh? Probably you know "Pikachu" of Pokemon!
The series is being brought back on Boomerang to showcase the dangers of Earth and how to save our beloved planet we live. Even you where young to remember what was the idea of playing with a ring to create a water attack or a windy storm to defend someone else, it is quite obvious that Captain Planet was one of the best shows regarding the conservation and environmental dangers that where and still around us.
The weekend of April 19 will bring Captain Planet's 12 hour marathon of best earth friendly episodes of the series. 27 shows will be featured, although the series has a total of 113 episodes along the 6+ years that the series was created so far. Most of the episodes where animated by DIC or Hanna Barbera so far, but the series is considered one of the best educative shows regarding the conservation of our Planet Earth. "Goooo Planet!"
What about the movie? I forgot..... Yes, there are plans of a Captain Planet movie. When it will come? The goal is a 2010 release, but I can't tell you who is going to perform Captain Planet. If you know, maybe "Slappy" told you...
SLAPPY: "Oh for crying out loud! Maybe is David Hasselhoff or Drew Carey doing Captain Planet! Now that's comedy!"
Almost banned by Chavez? The Simpsons!
FOX is not happy about the animated comedy being politically corrected in Venezuela...
(04-17-08) The Venezuelan people may have a say about it, but it looks like the anti-democratic Hugo Chavez is not a fan of Bart and Homer Simpson. Recently the Venezuelan Government, told the TV network Televen to stop showing the animated comedy "The Simpsons" during the midday hours that the Government considers as "Safe For Kids" hours. The show was replaced with repeats of "Baywatch Hawaii" (Not the David Hasselholf's "Baywatch"), but the general public sent some messages telling that the Chavez decision was way out of hands and if they knew that the show was not an approved for the family, they could simply turn off the TV. However the Venezuelan Government (Or Regime!) keeps telling that the TV shows that are not approved for the kids, should not be shown in the daylight hours. In fact, the TV Station would be taken off the air for showing The Simpsons. Did anyone remember last year when Chavez took off the air Radio Caracas Television or RCTV? Now you known! "Doh!"
Disney making Stitch to say "Arigato" (Thanks)
Plans for the entertainment giant to explore "Anime" series like Pokemon? Pika Pika!
(03-06-08) "Domo Arigato Mister Roboto"..... Nah! That 80's song from classic rock band "Styx" may have inspired Disney to explore the "Anime" market in the land of the raising sun. Mickey Mouse will speak Japanese... Sort of? Only that this time, is Stitch, the cute character from Disney's "Lilo & Stitch."
According to Reuters, Disney is getting involved in the land of Pokemon, to produce an Anime style series to the animated film and also there are plans to work a TV series with powerhouse TOEI Animation, the ones behind "Dragon Balls Z" and "Voltron" (Did I mentioned "Candy-Candy"?) to name a few! Of course, Disney has already worked some of the well known animated series, like "Winnie The Pooh" and "Duck Tales" out of the Japanese hands, but they where never made into Anime style series. So, now I wonder if the same formula that made Pikachu and Goku that famous, will be seen on Lilo & Stitch and if all goes well, I would imagine The Lion King sharing the stage with Kimba The White Lion..... Nah! "Arigato and Pi-Pikachu!" (?)
The CW lays off (Fired!) staff from KIDS WB!
Another sign that indicates the soon to be known as 4KIDS TV on The CW is yet to come!
(03-06-08) The CW Network is quit busy, laying off or firing out some of their personal, in light that the fledging network is in deep waters. I mean, they are being stump by Univision, the Spanish Language Network and on top of that, the rating maker "WWE Smackdown" who use to be on the defunct UPN Network, is now turning to "My Network" (Former UPN affiliates led by FOX!). Could it be, because of Tyra the "America's Next Top Model's" fault? Or perhaps there is something going on on the fledging Saturday Morning staple that will soon loose the brand KIDS WB in favor of 4KIDS TV?
But, The CW simply says, that is because of the 3+ month old WGA writers on strike, their network has suffered of low ratings and decided to put on hold (Canceled?) some Comedy sitcoms the Studio was producing, among them, "Girlfriends"(Final episode already aired?). Also, word came that some staff members at the network where let go, including KIDS WB staff members, who where told that because the KIDS WB brand will be turned over to 4KIDS Entertainment comes this fall, the network would not need the in house production team to work on the weekend staple that use to be the home to Animaniacs! How times flies!
"Go Lion" on DVD.....Was it Voltron?
Finally, fans of the 80's cartoon series, will be glad to learn of the big mistake that made the series successful!
(02-28-08) It's been like 25+ years ago, that a well known Anime in Japan, would have become part of the American culture, but at the big mistake of one company, the Anime that we known as "Voltron Defender of The Universe," became a success with millions of kids worldwide (Remember, this is the Pre-Pokemon era!). Why, at the big mistake? Since the US based World Events Production took the rights of the Japanese Anime "King Beast, Go Lion," they saw the possibility of a media market that was ruled by the Saturday Morning era cartoons like "The Smurfs" and popular TV series like "Knight Rider" and "The A Team" to name a few.
Still the fact that the US market was already saturated with lesser known TV shows on syndication and among them, where the cartoons that use to exit the Networks and joined the smaller TV outlets. Among the entries, came a lesser know TV show called "Voltron: Defender of The Universe." I thought it was a lesser known show and the episodes they where using where not those of the Lion made robots. The fact was, that World Events Productions, where using a different Anime from Japan (Dairruger 15) as the base of the series. Then during the middle of the show, they entered the animated Lion robots and I thought they changed the whole story.
Was it all related? I thought so, but to WEP, that would be a pretty white lie! They where not related. It was like 2 or 3 Anime's that where combined all together, like it was one particular show. So, millions of fans of the Voltron series where asking World Events if they would be willing to release the classic TV series the way it was developed, in the Japanese Anime and unedited (When I say unedited, I mean with all the violence that you would not allow younger kids to watch!). It appears that World Events would do it, but they wanted to release the Americanized version of Voltron Defender of The Universe first, before doing the original unedited version. For the last year, WEP was releasing the Voltron series in 5 DVD sets, each one represents the colored lion that stars in the series. Now that the American version was released, it's now time to release the original Japanese version.
So, I'm glad to inform that the Japanese Anime "King Beast, Go Lion" (Voltron Lion Force) will be released by Media Blasters, under agreement with World Events Productions and the release date is set for May 27, 2008.
Foo Fighters to Marvel: Singing Lawsuits being serve?
Grammy award rockers are mad about a song used on an animated trailer for "Wolverine and The X-Men"
(02-23-08) Would someone give Dave Grohl and his Foo Fighters, the best, the best, the best of Slappy? For crying out loud! The popular Grammy Award winning rock band is filing a lawsuit over copyright infringement, against Marvel Comics. The reason, was that a recent trailer for the new animated series "Wolverine and The X-Men" would contain a sample of the Foo Fighters smash hit "The Best Of You" on it. This TV series is in development, but as far I know, The BBC in the UK has agreed to show it. Currently there are no broadcast plans for the US (Maybe Cartoon Network, or Nickelodeon, or CW under 4KIDS?). However, Foo Fighter's management and record label has issue a cease and desist to Marvel Comics and the producers of the cartoon series and they are asking to pay back for royalties for the illegal use of their song. Really! I demand a Foo-Re-Count!
What happened with the trip to Orlando?
I promised an update to the trip back to Central Florida in early 2008
(02-16-08) Well, I first announced in late 2007 that I was returning to Orlando FL in 2008 (I'm sorry if you read 2009, but it was my mistake!). Yes, we have already planned to return to the land of Mickey Mouse by early 2008 and even I would bring an update regarding the move, but I was still pending on some details that needed to be addressed by the family members. I was expecting something good to happen, but in the last few weeks, things where not going in our favor. Because of that, the family has decided to put on hold the move to Orlando FL and the fact is that I still holding the Greyhound ticket to be used at a later time. What it is unclear at this point is when the return to FL will happen. Is it sooner or later? I have no idea of what is going on, but one thing is clear..... Save the Seattle Sonics..... Huh? I thought they where sent to Oklahoma! Not really, but the real deal is that the trip to Florida is being put on hold and is a wait and see thing, so will let you know. Sorry Mickey!
Digital TV is coming! Countdown to Analog's end!
The FCC is mandating the Digital TV era and will end the Analog's reign in 2009
(02-16-08) You probably heard the news that the Analog TV will be replaced by Digital TV in 2009. What will it means to you and I, who sits 24/7 (if you don't sleep!) watching the same TV shows (Thank goodness the writers on strike is over!) for entertainment? Well, here is the deal. The USA Government made in 2005 a law that would mandate the Digital TV broadcasting in 2009 and end the Analog TV broadcast that has become the standard since the TV was first introduced in the 1940's. Now, most of us has a TV for watching the big networks and of course the majority of the TV viewers are aware of the Digital TV change in 2009. However, since there are a few of us that are not aware of the new mandated law and they are not sure, if their TV set will survive the new change, Save Animaniacs Campaign will link to the Digital TV campaign by the FCC and will let you know what is going on related to this historic TV change. So, with less than 1 year for the mandated Digital TV law coming, we ask "Are You Ready?"
The WGA Strike is over..... Or, so it is?
The writers on strike are back to work and we ask, when will be a new SNL? Take a guess!
(02-16-08) It took 3 months and the same SNL episode with singer Jon Bon Jovi to find out that TV sucks? Or did anyone noted why Stewie and Bryan of FOX's "Family Guy" where not being voiced by Seth McFarlane? Of course, you all knew how bad TV was becoming since late October 2007, when the Writers Guild of America or WGA decided to go to strike, after failing to cut a deal with the TV Networks and Studio Producers over the DVD royalty fees they where due since the 1988 strike that lasted some 6+ months.
The issue at large was that the WGA members where asking to be compensated for every TV show on DVD and also newer platforms like You Tube, Joost TV and I-Tunes, to name a few. On top of that, they wanted to be able to have control of the Animation industry, which is the "Golden Egg" for the TV Studios and if that was not enough, how about control of reality shows like American Idol (Yes Simon! They want to control your rudeness!) and Survivor! So, after a bad presentation of the Golden Globe Awards with no red carpet and a "Press Conference" style show (Steven Spielberg was going to be honored, but it was canceled!), plus the possibility of a sucky Academy Awards (Oscars) show, gave way for the major studios to deal a new contract.
Will you guess who was behind the whole deal to make it happen? Have a laugh Roy Disney! It was Michael Eisner, the former Disney CEO who made some "Pixie" dust and send it to the bargain table at the WGA headquarters, to make the deal come true! What Mickey Mouse was thinking? Still while the strike is over, it will take some time to get the TV shows back to normal. In the meantime, the not so affected shows like "American Idol" on FOX are projecting bigger ratings in the week of the Top 24 contestants that will start fighting for the jewel of who will become the next American Idol. I still waiting for the new SNL on NBC, but please, no more of the Bon Jovi episode..... "Hey hey... I lost it!" (Guitarist Richie Sambora, during the Bon Jovi's monologue) Thanks WGA!
Happy Birthday Smurfs! 50 years of happiness!
The characters are celebrating worldwide and still very popular!
(01-14-08) Here is something that you never knew about The Smurfs! If you grew up with The Smurfs back in the 80's, you should know that the characters are even older than the animated series made by Hanna-Barbera. The Smurfs are celebrating 50 years in 2008. What made the blue characters so popular in The USA back in the 80's?
I know there are lots of questions regarding the origin of The Smurfs, so let's share the Papa Smurf's real secret to the cartoon's development. Some magic flute? Perhaps! Actually, The Smurfs was a creation of a cartoonist from Brussels, Belgium, named Pierre "Peyo" Culliford (1928-1992), who at first, never thought of the blue characters, when he started drawing some comic strips for a living. Around 1947, Peyo was doing some comic strips for a children magazine and he started doing some small project called "Johan" which introduced to the "Johan & Peewit"characters and at that time, Peyo never though of adding The Smurfs to his creation until 1958.
While making a story for the "Johan & Peewit" comic strip, Peyo though of some strange blue creatures which would help the 2 characters from the series, to fight evil forces. The story was later made into an animated movie in 1976 called "Smurf & The Magic Flute." The movie then called the attention of American Entrepreneur Stuart R. Ross, who after watching the cute blue characters in that movie, he and Peyo negotiated the US licensing of The Smurfs for retail purposes. Similar to what is now known as the "Beanie" toy craze, The Smurfs started retailing on markets across The US. Soon, in the late 70's, then NBC Television Executive Fred Silverman (The one responsible for Scooby Doo and David Letterman!), fell in love with The Smurfs and he bought one for his daughter. What Silverman thought at the time was the idea of making a TV show for NBC's Saturday Morning Block and in 1979, with the help of Hanna Barbera, the animated series "The Smurfs" came to life.
Of course, you knew The Smurfs where very popular in the mid 80's and you are wondering, why The Smurfs are still popular at least in Europe to this day? Of course, children has grown up with the blue characters like Papa Smurf and Smurfette to name a few. Even the series has become a "Cult" to millions of fans that still fall in love with the little blue guys. By the way, a DVD of The Smurfs Season 1 will be released by Warner Brothers in early 2008 and more will come, so there will be a Smurfing year for all Smurfs fans!
Real State web site reveals that the big animation building owned by Bob Clampett is on the block. Hear ye Trump!
(01-07-08) BEANIE BOY: "Help Cecil! Our cradle is for sale!"
Is not a joke! The big animation studio that was known as the Bob Clampett's Animation Studio is for sale, this according to Cartoon Brew's Web Site which posted the online description of the place at 729 Seward Street in Hollywood CA. The building was the house to several works made by Clampett while working for Warner Brothers and also on the famous duo of Beanie & Cecil back in the late 50's and early 60's. But the same building also housed the Klasky-Csupo studios, which eventually gave life to The Simpsons on FOX and Rugrats on Nickelodeon. Yet the same building houses an entire collection of Warner Brother's work made by the late Clampett himself. The building is owned by Clampett's daughter Ruth who is in charge of the Clampett's Studio Collection. Who wants to buy the building? I hear some apprentice! "Doh!"
News Archived 2007:
Orlando in 2009?
The cold Seattle weather is taking a toll on Slappy, chances are that Save Animaniacs will migrate to FL soon!
(11-15-07) For real! I am going to start packing the bags for a return trip on a Greyhound bus back to Orlando from Seattle WA. 3 days again on the road? You bet! Get ready for that to happen. I will let you know in the next couple of days, probably during the Holidays. Stay tuned! Yes Mickey Mouse, (Singing Daughtry's) "So, I'm going home, to the place where I belong..." Bye Sanjaya and Blake, nice to know your Puget Sound and the soon to be OKC Supersonics!
UPDATE: (12-28-07) Target date for the trip to Orlando FL is around Late February or early March 2008 (This may change, so stay tuned!). The countdown to Florida has begun! Sorry that I have to give up the Orlando Citrus Parade this year for the trip to happen later! Stay tuned for more info! Disney, here I come!
Could the animated industry be affected by WGA Strike? Sponge Bob says so...
The WGA Strike is entering in their second month with no resolution in sight!
(12-10-07) No end in sight, for the still ongoing WGA Strike regarding a few more cents or bucks to their TV on DVD staples. The Strike has gone over a month and while the big studios are trying to bring the matters to a solution, it appears the big networks are embracing their pockets in order to not give a penny more to the WGA writers. But, here is what I still thinking, will take more pocket change in the future negotiations between WGA writers and Studio bosses. The use of the Cartoon World! Animated staples may be playing a big major role in the current negotiations. Ask Minerva Mink's (Animaniacs) creator and Tiny Toons Producer Paul Dini. He considers that he may start asking the animation industry writers to join their causes and that could affect the animation industry in the long term. Even the WGA wants to make money on the Reality Show business. Would American Idol be another casualty waiting to happen? I stick my noses on CNN, FOX News and Univision! I'm not interested in watching the same SNL repeat with Bon Jovi as host! Go figure!
Grammy for a Rat? Sorry, but is not Kanye West!
The Grammy Awards nominations came and only a Rat was nominated for the prestige award!
(12-10-07) I read that a rat was nominated for a Grammy along with big rapper and musician Kanye West. Of course the only rat that I could find easy to nominate has to be from Disney! I'm talking about "Ratatouille" the Disney's animated feature that found a way to be nominated for Best Score Soundtrack Album (Field 22, Category 83 as designated by The Recording Industry Arts Academy or RIAA on the Grammy Web Site) and it is nominated along another animated feature, this time is a penguin known as "Happy Feet". Other nominees in that same category, where "Babel," Blood Diamond," "The Departed" and "Pan's Labyrinth." The Grammy Awards ceremony is scheduled for February 10, 2008 on CBS Television and subject to the current WGA Strike developments. May the best rat and penguin prevails over Kanye and WGA...
Hit Entertainment, looses founder Peter Horton and
Cartoon Network, looses Senior Vice President Jennifer Davidson
He was the creator of the entertainment giant that launched Bob The Builder and Barney and Friends.
She was the person that launched the "Boomerang" Network off the classic Hanna Barbera shows.
(12-10-07) Sadly, the Children Entertainment world, loss 2 key persons. One, defined the concept of "Edu-Tainment" or Educational Entertainment as it is known as E/I. The other was the heart of the "Boomerang" Network.
Both, the creator of Hit Entertainment, Peter Horton and Cartoon Network's Senior Vice President of Programming and Scheduling, Jennifer Davidson, died recently, due to different illness they where facing. Horton was 64 and Davidson was 38.
Peter Horton started his career on the popular PBS Kids series "Sesame Street." However, he decided to pursue and develop popular characters like "Bob The Builder" and "Thomas The Tank Engine" and then his company, Hit Entertainment, overtook other titles like "Barney and Friends" and "Angelina Ballerina" to make them a powerhouse in children entertainment.
Jennifer Davidson was the woman that took over the new created network known as "Boomerang" and made it a well known powerhouse with the classic Hanna Barbera library of Scooby Doo, Tom & Jerry and The Flintstones to name a few. She also helped in the launch of the "Adult Swim" Block of overnight cartoons like "Space Ghost Coast to Coast" and the controversial animated show "Aqua Teen Hunger Force."
Save Animaniacs remembers the legacy of both Orton and Davidson. May both rest in peace.
The annual event may or may not be affected.....by weather! The WGA Strike will not interfere the festivities!
(11-15-07) An annual tradition along with the Turkey dinner, has to be the Annual Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade and this year is no exception. The parade that will kick off the Holiday celebration, will include dozens of marching bands and floats along with the traditional Broadway shows performing for an audience of millions around the world. Still the question, is the parade going to be affected? Unless mother nature has other plans in place, I don't think there will be any problems.
The only issue here is the fact that the Broadway's stagehands where on strike for few days, however that may not affect the Broadway cast that will perform on the parade. The other thing was the ongoing WGA strike that is now almost 1 month since the strike started and has affected most of the TV shows, including Late Shows and SNL that are still on repeats this far. However the producers of the Macy's Thanksgiving Parade at NBC are making it clear that their writers are not part of the WGA union and that they already had scripted the parade for broadcast day, so there will be no problem with that.
The parade broadcast is in the 81st year and will have new balloons from Sesame Street's Abby Cadabby, Hello Kitty and Shrek, plus performance from Disney's High School Musical and American Idol's Jordin Spark (no Sanjaya's Mowhawk in sight?) and will be telecast on NBC and Telemundo for Spanish audiences.
Seth McFarlane will not voice "Stewie!" FOX will?
The creator of Family Guy will not cross the WGA strike to voice the foul mouth baby, but FOX will replace him!
(11-15-07) The WGA Strike still continues to ruin the TV shows and now it's taking another toll on it. Just a few days back, FOX TV announced they where placing on Hiatus the TV series "24" and most likely, will put on hold the "House" TV series. But, one thing that FOX is not willing to loose, besides reality based American Idol, is their animated powerhouses like "The Simpsons", "King Of The Hill" and of course, America's most beloved "Family Guy!"
But, creator and voice cast member Seth "Stewie" McFarlane has made clear that he will continue supporting the WGA union members that are still striking against the big Hollywood Studios for an increase on their "TV-on-DVD" residuals and that he will not return to voice the foul mouth baby "Stewie" and his dog companion "Brian" on the FOX TV series. However, FOX TV will still be doing Family Guy and since FOX is allowed to work with or without McFarlane at all, does that mean that FOX TV, in a desperate move to save his ratings, is recurring to the cast of "Pokemon" to voice "Stewie" and his friends on the sitcom? Well, not really the cast of Pokemon. But to tell you the fact that FOX is using voice replacements, is giving us the impression on how desperate the WGA strike is coming this far. You be the judge!
WGA on strike.... This is November weeps!
The Writers are asking more bucks for their TV on DVD releases. That means "Warners!"
(11-06-07) What you have heard about the WGA (Writers Guild of America) intentions of cashing few more bucks on the TV on DVD industry and the reason to go to strike, which has canceled the late night shows like Leno, Letterman and Saturday Night Live and is bound for the hold of the TV's major asset like Soap Operas or "Daytime Drama" (Except for Univision which imports all Mexican TV dramas!) and will also take down on Ophra, The View and The Price is Right with Drew Carey (Bring back Bob Barker repeats if you please!) to name a few. Then, will hit on Grey's Anatomy and Ugly Betty! Yikes! The not so affected by the WGA strike will be American Idol and since FOX has more interest on the upcoming season, they may not worry about it.
However, be advise that if the WGA decides to go farther with the strike, to surpass the one they did back in 1988, which by the way, that was the time when DVD was experimental and the VHS format was dominant. Also there was no Internet at all, cause AOL did not even began to shown up until mid 90's. So 19 years later, you see the writers asking to be paid few more dollars on the TV shows on DVD, which is being considered a cash cow to the entertainment giants, but they don't give a cent to the writers that did the scripts to those shows.
So, what has to do with Animaniacs? Let me explain it: Tom Ruegger and Paul Dini where the main writers of Animaniacs and other WB shows like Pinky & The Brain and Tiny Toons Adventures. Now that these shows are being released on DVD, guess how much money they both gets from it? Zero! Nada! Nothing! You are right! Warner Brothers get the money from the DVD releases and no money goes to the writers of the script! The question is: Does it seem fair enough that the writers of the scripts to Animaniacs should be paid for every time their work is being exposed to new platforms that range from DVD to cell phones to I-Tunes or future platforms like Joost TV or the Hula (The You Tube killer?) player from News Corporation and NBC Universal?
The entertainment industry thinks that the writers are already being paid for the work, but the WGA says that they are not well paid for their work and the deserve more. So, there goes the big stand off that is hijacking millions of TV viewers to watch re-runs of Grey's Anatomy or simply turn off their TV set like they did back in 1988. You get the facts! More to come!
Universal Orlando goes "Green with The Grinch!"
Theme Park will use echo friendly technology to run their attractions.
(11-06-07) You probably heard the Holiday tune "You are a mean one, Mister Grinch" from Dr Seuss "How The Grinch Stole Christmas." However, the Holiday tune will not really apply to an Echo Friendly Mister Grinch!
Universal Orlando has declared as the "Green One!" The NBC Universal owned theme park will rely on more echo friendly technology to run their attractions and also promised they will start recycling campaigns throughout their theme parks and resort properties. So, the next time you go to Orlando for vacation, you will find a greener Hard Rock Hotel or a biodiesel run roller coaster. How the new The Simpsons attraction will run? Ask Homer! Doh!
KIDS WB dumped for 4KIDS TV!
The last staple of the now defunct THE WB Network, is being replaced in 2008-09 Season!
(10-03-07) Sad but true, the last staple and powerhouse of what use to be known as THE WB Network and now replaced with THE CW Network, known as KIDS WB, is being replaced too. Came off the wires, that comes the 2008-09 season, 4KIDS Entertainment will move out of FOX Network, along with their popular TV shows like "Sonic X", "Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles" and "Viva Piñata" to replace the KIDS WB line up. So, say good bye to Scooby Doo, Batman (Who joined Disney's Jetix) and Tom & Jerry. Most likely, they will be seen on Cartoon Network. However, the current KIDS WB line up that was mostly made of foreign animated shows like "Dewitt & Will" from Canada and "Eon/Iron Kid" from Spain, are off the dial. I wonder what Spain's animated house BRB has to say about this? In the meantime, 4KIDS Entertainment has signed a 5 years agreement to provide THE CW with their current and future properties. So, fans of the "Sonic X" and "Viva Piñata"series, will be glad to see their favorites going out of the dial, since FOX only provided the 4KIDS block to the affiliates they ask for, but other affiliates ended up replacing the 4KIDS shows with paid programming or local news. Funny to say that 4KIDS Entertainment used to have better days with proven powerhouse properties like "Pokemon" and "Yu-Gi-Oh" on KIDS WB. After loosing "Pokemon" to Nintendo, the kids entertainment powerhouse, became into deep waters, since most of the TV shows where not seen as "Pokemon" would have been seen. So, when the move is completed, we may see "Sonic" and "Turtles" getting along in the house that once use to be the home to "Animaniacs!"
JETIX gets Pinky & The Brain? Where are the Animaniacs?
Disney gets deal to have some WB animated content on Jetix and Pinky & The Brain are added!
(9-26-07) What is Disney doing to Pinky & The Brain? NARF! The Animaniacs based "lab mice" are getting JETIX! The Disney's Digital Cable outlet is doing some WB animated content in their line up starting October 1st. Still we ask this question: Where are the Animaniacs? No word from Mickey Mouse, whenever the channel will have The Warner Brothers and their Sister in the JETIX line up in the near future. As far as right now, Pinky & The Brain, Batman, Superman and Chaotic are scheduled for the JETIX run for the fall. As a matter of fact, both Superman and Batman animated series where the first to start on JETIX earlier in September. Now the mice pair and the 4KIDS based TV series are also joining the cable channel, but one thing remains unanswered: Are The Animaniacs going to get JETIX too? Well, what are you waiting for! Tell Mickey Mouse that I miss him.....NO! Tell Mickey Mouse that you want Animaniacs on JETIX! (Really, I miss Orlando!)
The never ending saga on the Pooh case against the family that created the "silly ol bear!"
(9-26-07) Money matters to Pooh and Disney, who after 16 years of legal battles to keep the "Silly Ol Bear" from being taken away from the creator's family, still being litigated in Court! What Pooh has to do with it? The issue is about who gets to keep Pooh and the royalties that the bear from the "100 Acre Woods" has generated over the years. Over the years, The creator's family descendants has filed several lawsuits against Disney and The Slesinger Family, for the rights to the A.A Milnes creation. But, not only the Milnes are trying to get Pooh out of the Magic Kingdom. So are The Slessinger Family who claimed in several lawsuits that Disney has told them they will get money from Pooh Royalties and The Slessinger Family claims that Disney lied to them regarding the royalties issue. So, lawsuit, after lawsuit, after lawsuit.... Guess who is the winner? You are right! Disney is the one that keeps laughing at both families for the rights to the characters. Either Disney spends more money in the lawsuits and still claims they do more money with Winnie The Pooh than listening to the courts attorneys regarding who gets to keep the "Silly ol Bear". For now, the saga continues at the "100 Acre Woods Forest!"
Speedy Gonzales can sing! Yeeeepaaaa!
The fastest mouse of Mexico joins brother of latin icon Selena in a new musical venture
(8-17-07) Speedy Gonzales, the iconic cartoon called "The Fastest Mouse of Mexico" and subject of cultural controversies, can now be considered a singing legend! No joke, but according to Animated World News, the Warner Brothers cartoon has been signed as part of the Kumbia All Starz (Formerly Kumbia Kings), led by AB Quintanilla III, who is the brother of the late Latino singer Selena Quintanilla (In case you wonder, if you saw the movie "Selena" with Jennifer "JLO" Lopez, you should know what I'm talking about!). The new venture will led the famously known cartoon character to appear in a tie in promotion, that includes a music video already seen on popular Cable TV's Hispanic video channels like MUN2 and MTV3 to name a few. Speedy Gonzales has also been featured on TV ads for a well known European car maker and the last appearance at the movie screen was at the live action Warner Brothers movie "Looney Tunes Back in Action" several years back.
Disney goes Hollywood (Minus MGM?) Studios!
Mickey Mouse wants Orlando attraction more Disney theme than old Movie era
(8-13-07) While I'm in the cold Northwest watching The Space Needle and some NBA team exiting the I-5 corridor.... (By now, you should figure out that Seattle is loosing the NBA team!) In sunny Central Florida around the I-4 corridor, there is good old pal Mickey Mouse (I miss him!) making some theme park adjustments (Go figure, Disney is more expensive to visit!) which include a new name for one of 4 Disney Theme Parks!
It just came out that Disney is re-branding the Disney MGM Studios and they are going to Hollywood! Sorry, is not the American Idol on FOX call! Is actually that Disney is no longer in need of the MGM brand that has been hanging around the movie theme park since its 1989 opening. In case you wonder, Disney is renaming the MGM Studios into Disney Hollywood Studios after January 1, 2008. Play the Big Bowl game in Downtown Orlando and then, go to Hollywood! In Florida?
The Walt Disney World Resorts is renaming the Disney MGM Studios into Disney Hollywood Studios, according to reports from insiders in the theme park industry. Altought there where rumors of renaming the MGM Studios, probably because the MGM brand is no longer in the Disney's style of entertainment. Now, it has nothing to do with SONY. Sony, still owns the MGM brand, however Disney was legally the owner of the name Disney MGM Studios to identify the Central Florida attraction. But Disney wants to make the formerly known MGM Studios into a Disney Channel theme park.... Or is it PIXAR? The Movie Theme Park is scheduled to offer several new attractions and will also revamp the Playhouse Disney Live on Stage and will replace it with a Mickey Mouse Club House version based on the popular Disney Channel show. We got ears! Say Cheers!
A Voltron Movie? A Johnny Quest Movie? A He-Man Movie? A Thundercats Movie?
Call me, when there is enough interest on an Animaniacs movie! "For crying out loud!"
(8-13-07) I have enough of the movie and Pop Corn! I just came from watching The Simpsons Movie and spend some $25 dollars on tickets, pop corn and soda. On top of that, I lost my AT&T mobile device! No, is not an I-Phone and thank God that I pre-pay the minutes, but the fact that I lost my cell phone and spend that much on the Movie Theater, made me re-think my future plans for watching another movie. On top of that, Hollywood is announcing new movie projects based on the 1980's well known properties like Voltron: Defender of The Universe and He-Man (Not the 1987 "Master of The Universe" which stunk the box office!). Also, Thundercats and Johnny Quest are in the mix! Just when you thought that this movie was so scripted, think again! I want to ride my "Blue Lion SUV" back to Orlando FL! Heck! Call me when there is enough interest in an Animaniacs movie! Just ask Slappy! Is anyone at World Events Productions and TOEI reading this notice?
Inconvenience Stores? Ask Homer! Doh!
7-Eleven converts dozen store into Kwik-E-Marts, Seattle and Orlando included!
(7-2-07) Doh? Inconvenience taking over Downtown Disney? Space Needle getting a doughnut and "Buzz Cola Squishees"? How about, some "Krusty O's" for breakfast? No joke! The Simpsons is making some inconvenience too easy! 7-Eleven partnered with Fox, in a marketing campaign to promote the upcoming "The Simpsons's Movie" coming on July 27, 2007. A dozen 7-Eleven Convenience Stores across the nation, gave up their store signs and where replaced with the logo for the fictional "Kwik-E-Marts" Inconvenience Stores, made famous by Sanjaya's cousin..... LOL! Made famous by fictional and Indian descendant born "Apu Nahasapeemapetilon Jr.", a regular character in the FOX TV's animated series and voiced by Hank Azaria who also voices "Moe" and "Officer Wiggum" on the series.
American Greetings refuses DIC's Get Along Gang?
Dic Entertainment already gave Smores Entertainment the green light for the classic 80's cartoon
(5-31-07) Dic Entertainment's version of the classic 80's animated series The Get Along Gang was about to see a DVD release, when the company gave a green light to Smores Entertainment to release the series along with The Littles on DVD. Turns out that American Greetings the card makers and creators of The Get Along Gang, under the "Those Characters From Cleveland" banner, where not aware of the upcoming release. Now, according to TV Shows on DVD Web Site, American Greetings is denying both DIC and Smores to release the classic 80's cartoon series. Are you surprise about this? DIC did not consulted with AG about it? Or was the possibility that there was no interest from either AG or Nelvana Entertainment, who did the Get Along Gang's Pilot episode, aside DIC and claims the rights to the DVD release? Whatever you think it is, it leaves the fans of the classic 80's TV series so upset and wondering why DIC and Smores where already advertising the release of the series without a final say from AG. Smores Entertainment posted an apology about the matter and they are still going to launch The Littles and another property they will announce latter on DVD. Hopefully the folks at the American Greetings have some interest on The Get Along Gang and release it in the future.
Joost TV, may not work in my PC, but promises WB content.....Animaniacs on Joost?
I'm sorry to say that I can't give invites, because my DELL can't run the client!
(5-31-07) If you where able to read the Save Animaniacs Blog, recently I posted a comment that my DELL PC was not able to run the Joost TV software and because of that, I could not handle personal invitations that the software makers where providing to anyone that wanted to beta test the new video technology available.
Well, to this day, my DELL PC is not willing to try the software (I keep changing the versions!) and most likely will not be compatible, because there is a conflict with the Video Card this machine is using (I sent the DX DIAG to Joost TV, in hopes they can find out the problem!). I understand the DELL PC with WINDOWS XP I own, is more than 7 years old (Joost TV recommends a newer computer to work the software!) and has some minor fixes and one hard drive replaced, while in Orlando FL. But since I move to Seattle WA, I have not provided service to the PC and since I have a limited income, may not be able to buy a new PC, besides, my brother bought a new DELL PC with WINDOWS VISTA for his use, I will not use it to test the Joost TV service.
Now, why I'm bringing this up? I just found out that Joost TV has signed Warner Brothers for their music videos to be streamed on the video server. Yet, it did not specify if Warner Brothers would soon, supply Joost TV with their TV catalog, including the animated TV series. But, could this be happening? Animaniacs and Pinky & The Brain with other WB animated series running on Joost TV? Now, this is why I'm trying to find out if my DELL PC will still be able to run the video server, but again, all I see it the start up error, regarding the video card's incompatibility with the software. In the meantime, I'll stick to troubling You Tube!
Sander Schwartz leaves WB Animation.
I would love if, Schwartz would bring back Animaniacs!
(5-25-07) You probably recognize his name on the Scooby Doo newer cartoons and movies. Or you may see his name on cartoons like "Kripto The Superdog" or "Tom & Jerry Tales" to name a few. Warner Brothers Animation Studio was run by the creative mind of Sander Schwartz, for the past 6 years, when most of the KIDS WB cartoons where imported from other studios, along with "Pokemon" and "Jackie Chan's Adventures." However, KIDS WB was successful by bringing some animated shows from The WB Studio, like "What's New Scooby Doo" and "The Batman". He even produce the "Looney Tunes" spin off "Baby Looney Tunes" and also brought back the iconic Tom & Jerry from several movies to the current TV series "Tom & Jerry Tales."
Now that Schwartz leaves The WB Animation Studios, the question remains, if the next successor could still be able to bring back Animaniacs? Will have to wait and see!
PBS KIDS SPROUT character's name offensive?
If Postcards From Buster was that offensive, not by name but something else?
(5-25-07) A popular PBS KIDS SPROUT character was called offensive by a Hispanic woman who claimed that the Penguin known as "Pingu" was refer to something that I can't say in this site! But at all it is offensive!
According to CBS News, a South Florida Hispanic resident was complaining that her daughter, who is a fan of the popular cartoon character, was singing the theme song that famous actor David Hasselhoff (Baywatch and Knight Rider) did for the PBS KIDS SPROUT channel from Comcast. However, I won't link the video from CBS News, because it uses a offensive slang.
Disney testing hand drawing? Are you Goofy?
Disney is hand drawing Goofy. Could this signal the return to classic Disney animation?
(5-8-07) Disney is reportedly hand drawing Goofy for an upcoming short. The media giant stop the classic 2D or handrawing technique and replaced with the 3D animation technology that was used on Disney's "Meet The Robinsons" and "Chicken Little". In fact remember the old Disney MGM Animation Studio in Orlando FL? That studio is no longer there. It was closed as Disney decided to go from traditional hand drawing to the computer made films.
Now comes reports that Disney is testing the old feature that the late Walt Disney started some 60+ years back. Remember those classic Disney shorts that came before the movie was to begin? The old Mickey Mouse, Donald Duck and Goofy shorts where a staple in classic Disney style. But that technique was stop some time in the late 60's. Since most of the shorts where no longer made, but instead Disney would concentrate in making family features length movies, like "Cinderella", "Snow White and The Seven Dwarfs", "Peter Pan" and "Winnie The Pooh" to name a few.
Some may recall the old "Goofy's How To" movie shorts from the mid 50's and early 60's. One of this shorts was featured on the ABC KIDS/Disney Channel/Toon Disney TV series "House Of Mouse" in 2001-02. But for some reason, Disney is testing the idea with the help of some PIXAR friends that are thinking of reviving the old traditional hand drawing. So, could be possible that Disney returns to the old hand drawing that we tough it would not come back? Stay tuned to this story.
Classic Anime in the USA!
(Made by Japanese crew of Animaniacs?)
What classic Anime could have had the crew that worked on Animaniacs? No, is not Sonic X!
(5-8-07) Now, for some time, I ever wondered about Japan's big animation studio TMS Entertainment LTD's (Owned by game entertainment giant SEGA/SAMMY Holdings) ability of doing great work on both "Animaniacs" and "Pinky & The Brain", but I was wondering what kept the Tokyo based studio, shy of showing one of the best Anime series ever developed? No, is not "Sonic X", "Monster Rancher" or "Hamtaro!".
But, have you ever heard about "Remi" or "Cats Eye"? How about "Treasure Island" (Takarajima)?
If you know them, great! However, the only ones who don't know are the USA friends! What? Let me explain!
I grew up with some of the best Anime series ever developed. It was late 70's or early 80's. Anime was well known in my homeland of Puerto Rico. No doubt that most of the children's animated series would have come from Japan. Best Animes I could recall where "Mazinger Z", "Candy-Candy" and "Nobody's Boy: Remi". Some USA friends would recall "Battle Of The Planets" which was also an Anime. But the others I mentioned are like "Do I know them?" Have I seen them? But of course, this was the PRE-POKEMON era!
Now that Anime is still a growing phenomenon in the USA, I'm glad to tell you that one of my favorite Anime TV series, is coming to the USA and is from the Japan crew that worked on Animaniacs! TMS Entertainment LTD has entered in an agreement with US based TitleMatch Entertainment, which owns the Asian-Imagine Entertainment Network. They will release in the USA some classic Animes which includes "Nobody's Boy: Remi" (IE NAKI KO REMI) and "Cats Eye" to name a few. The classics will have TV showing on Asian-Imagine and will also be available as DVD on demand from TitleMatch Entertainment.
Of course, TMS has done more Anime work in the past and you probably know them for the "Monster Ranch", "Sonic X" and "Hamtaro" series. But you also know them, as working for some Disney animated series like "Chip & Dale Rescue Rangers", "The New Adventures of Winnie The Pooh" and "Duck Tales". Of course with Warner Brothers on "Animaniacs", "Pinky & The Brain" and "Tiny Toons Adventures" to name a few. But Im glad that the TMS folks will start sending their original works for the American people to see. Could I see "Treasure Island" (Takarajima) or "Onegai Samia Don" (Samed the Magic Gnome/Five Children and It) in the future? Will see!
Bring The Simpsons to Universal Orlando!
(But, Harry Potter?)
Universal Orlando and Hollywood confirms a ride for The Simpsons. But what about Harry Potter?
(4-24-07) Amid that I still in the cold Northwest, in my former home place known as Orlando FL, the news comes that Universal Orlando will have Bart and Homer yelling "Woo hooo!" According to The Orlando Sentinel, the theme park giant has revealed a new attraction based on the FOX's popular TV sitcom. This comes as earlier in 2007 it was announced that Universal was shutting down the "Back To The Future" ride that has been one of the theme park's major and earlier rides, since the park opened in 1991. However, some noted that while Universal is revealing The Simpson attraction, it also brings the question of "What about Harry Potter?"
The Orlando Sentinel is also noting that Universal may be in talks with J.K. Rowling, the creator of the Harry Potter books. It may has been rumored that Universal may also bring Harry Potter to the theme park. However Universal declines to comment this matter, since they are already announcing the new The Simpsons attraction. Will give details as it happens.
Howie to Bobby: "Deal or No Deal"?
Taffy Entertainment Corporation has found a DEAL for Bobby's World, after a decade out of TV!
(4-16-07) Is a DEAL! Howie Mandel can rest assure that his creation known as "Bobby's World" that was seen on FOX KIDS (Before the 4KIDS move in!) around 1990 to 1998, now has a new partner for worldwide distribution. It turns out that Taffy Entertainment Corporation, who launched some of their properties on Comcast Digital On Demand known as "Kabillion." Now, back to the "Bobby's World" series, Taffy Entertainment Corporation will start distributing the series at a later date, most likely a DVD release will be scheduled any time soon. So stay tuned and as Howie says "IS A DEAL FOR BOBBY!"
Want Care Bears? Look for them on CBS this fall!
CBS bring back the lovable Care Bears after a decade of their last broadcast! Anyone forgot "Care Bears Stare"?
(4-14-07) 80's cartoons never die young, so to say! So, CBS is bringing back the 80's lovable Care Bears. Now, this is a new series, which is not the one that Nelvana did. This one is by DIC Entertainment and American Greetings. However, some 80's fans may recall seen a Care Bears cartoon made by DIC around 1984 or 1985 (See below). That was a Japanese Anime that DIC co-produce. The new version will hit the airwaves during the fall among with new episodes of Strawberry Shortcake and a new project called Sushi Pack. No word if the controversial "Sabrina The Teenage Witch" will be back (Still being repeated anyway!).
4KIDS loosing "One Piece"? Ha Ha!
Just like they loose "Pokemon", now 4KIDS looses "One Piece" to Funimation. On top of that: VOICES TOO!
(4-13-07) Once again, kiddie entertainment giant known as 4KIDS Entertainment (The once house to Pokemon!), has lost another property they where holding for a few years. It is reported that Funimation, the Anime House behind mega hits "Dragon Ball" and "Dragon Ball Z" has acquired the Toei Animation's Japanese Anime "One Piece". On top of that, Funimation will no be using the voices that has been behind the Anime (The same cast from Pokemon?) and instead will hire a new cast. Similar effort was made by POKEMON USA, a Nintendo made company to deal with the Pokemon franchise worldwide. They took it away from 4KIDS Entertainment back in 2005 and they changed their voice cast. So once again, for those that keeps complaining about the bad dubbing that 4KIDS was doing to "One Piece", I can tell you that your dreams came true as of today. However, more bad news for Eric Stuart and Veronica Taylor who worked on both series (Pokemon/One Piece), as they are told their voices will be replaced. So what a major blow for 4KIDS.
<>
Remember, I'm in Seattle! Or is it Bellevue?
Don't tell me that I live next door to Sanyaya the American Idol contestant with the Mohawk!
(4-1-07) Yes, for sure you all know that I move from Orlando FL to Seattle or Bellevue WA. So, now that my move is complete and done and installed Comcast for Internet provider, I am happy to say.......What? I still miss Orlando, so what is the happiness all about? No Disney! No Universal! No Sea World!!!! All I have is the Needle and the Duck that Postcards From Buster (PBS) was yapping about! No! Is not Donald Duck! Is the Seattle Duck (See the "Sleepy In Seattle" episode!). Sure I'm going to miss all my friends in Orlando and Central FL! But, I never say that I will not comeback! I will and I do plan to comeback! Wait for me Disney World! By the way, now that I live in the Pacific Northwest, now, everything is TAPE DELAYED!!! 3 hours of difference, makes all the TV shows as Tape delayed for the west coast. So, why bother to see "American Idol" and SNL, when they are not live anymore?
So, give me Sanyaya's Mohawk thing!
What is KIDS WB doing? Buying from Spain?
Well, KIDS WB on The CW is taking more on overseas projects. Check the new fall shows!
(4-1-07) Just came off the oven, KIDS WB on The CW is now taking part on the new overseas partners. Since 2006, the new network that once housed The WB and UPN is now considering buying the kids shows out of the US markets. Now, we know that KIDS WB was making a lot of buyouts on US based properties, but recently, KIDS WB started buying from Canadian properties like Cookie Jar Entertainment ("Johnny Test"), who is already a partner of PBS KIDS with their shows "Arthur" and "Caillou" to name a few. However, KWB started a partnership with Spain's animated house BRB Internacional. Their project is called EON KID (For those in Europe, is "Iron Kid"), a computer animated show that could resemble some similarity with 4KIDS Entertainment's "Cubix: Robots for Everyone." It also could resemble the new animated movie "TMNT" (Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles) that Warner Brothers did for theaters. Just to mention that KWB got a hold of several shows for their Saturday Morning slot, for the Fall Season 2007-08. Among them, a new animated Spider Man series is in the works. There will be a season 2 for "Tom & Jerry Tales" and "Scooby and Shaggy Get a Clue" too. However, we will see how far this new buy out from Spain will work. By the way, you mostly forgot the 80's, but Nickelodeon use to have this Spain cartoon called "The World of David The Gnome." Well, the makers are the same as the ones that KWB has partnered. Go figure!
Thank you Orlando for 11 years of Save Animaniacs Campaign! Next stop, Seattle WA........MU?
(Sorry for the bank plug....) Save Animaniacs says good-bye to Central Florida, at least for now!
(2-25-07) We all know how sad is to say good-bye to our second home place that housed us for the last 11 years. Save Animaniacs Campaign will no longer be an Orlando resident. Where moving the entire show on the road and our next stop will be the Space Needle! Where re-locating to Seattle Washington in the northwest. The home to the NFL Seahawks (Bye loosing Jaguars!), The NBA Supersonics (Sorry, but I keep the Orlando Tragic....I mean Magic!) and the home to Bill Gates and Microsoft!
Now, here is the deal. For a couple of days (Perhaps 2 to 3 weeks), my Internet will be disconnected. The last few days I have in Orlando, will be spent at the Public Library. If I have to update, you can see the updates at the BLOG page. Until I have fully established the Internet service with Comcast, since Bright House Networks is not in Seattle, but Orlando, I will not be able to update the page, so this will be considered the last update to the Campaign from Orlando FL. Bear with Wakko and Slappy folks! Is a hard process that I never thought it would happen. So where looking forward to continue our Campaign and fun with Animaniacs, once I made the travel to the Northwest. Thank you Orlando for the 11 years of fun and inspiration to continue. We look forward for the day that I would return to Beautiful Central Florida!
Pokemon changes characters, but voices?
New characters taking over Pokemon in March. Voice actors still unchanged!
(2-25-07) Sorry, but it's almost a year since the voice cast of Pokemon was replaced from 4KIDS Entertainment to the Nintendo's own Pokemon USA and besides the thousands of fans that kept telling that it was a bad idea, still they stood for it. However here is some Pokemon information to share. It is the end of the Pokemon Advance/Battle Frontier series. Cartoon Network will have some time to explain what is going to happen to the Pokemon characters. Some are leaving, some are coming. Don't worry. Team Rocket will still making their voices that worse.... They are not leaving. The ones leaving are May and Max from Pokemon Advance fame! It appears that the next episode would be mostly about Ash's decision to try out a new battle ground and will leave all the Pokemon, but Pikachu and Aipom and head to the 'Shinou' region (From Kanto, Johto and Hoen?), where Ash will meet a new trainer and will also meet a rival (Just like Gary from Seasons 1 to 5) that it trying to get the best Pokemon (Like American Idol, the worse, goes home!). More to come. The voices stay, for sure!
More of You Tube and Copyright battles!
Even Animaniacs cannot be on You Tube, thanks to Viacom!
(2-25-07) Remember that few weeks back, we reported the sudden removal of Viacom's owned properties from You Tube? (See below) Now we found out that Animaniacs cannot be on You Tube, due to the copyright issue that Viacom already raised. While users are discourage by You Tube to upload copyright material, there are some that goes against the rules and upload everything they have from their TV sets. Whenever is Pokemon (Another banned on You Tube cartoon!) and Dora The Explorer (See if you can find her, after Viacom's decision!), we also find some Animaniacs clips. But, even so, You Tube will most likely remove the content, due to the fact that the Animaniacs already came from Nicktooons Networks, which parent company is Viacom! Some Animaniacs episodes that bears the logo for Nicktoons where easily removed by You Tube, just to comply with the Viacom request. However, other Animaniacs episodes also remained in the video hosting server, but the Nicktoons logo was not inserted, so either came from another source like TV broadcast or the DVD episodes. Still Warner Brothers does not want those DVD episodes to be seen on the video service. So I would suggest that you go and buy the Animaniacs on DVD, the legal way. But, if You Tube still has some Animaniacs episodes, you can still check them out, but don't forget that they can cease to exits due to the You Tube's legal battle over copyright.
You Tube ERASES Spongebob, Dora, Backyardigans and Viacom!
Over 100,000 clips must be deleted, says media giant! No more MTV videos? What's wrong?
(2-3-07) Where is Spongebob Squarepants, Dora The Explorer and The Backyardigans? They are still on Nickelodeon, but not on Video hosting's You Tube! In what it is considered as another episode in the legality battle over the copyright infringements whereabouts, the media giant Viacom, demanded from You Tube and parent company Google, to stop hosting their content, which includes all their media networks like Nickelodeon, MTV, VH1, CMT, Comedy Central, BET and Paramount Entertainment.
As of this day, thousands of video clips from MTV and VH1 Classics where taken down from You Tube. No more classic Led Zepelling or Journey folks! Don't bother to see the Fergalicions song or the OK GO video on the treadmill! But what is worst, no more "Dora The Explorer" or the Backyard Friends, "The Backyardigans!"
In the meantime, some You Tube users are complaining to You Tube, that their videos where also deleted, at the request of Viacom. But, here is the shocking one! If I do a video clip, using a Spongebob Squarepants doll and not using the TV series clip, does that violate the copyright issues that You Tube is trying to define?
Take for example, the recent incident of the Cartoon Network's "Aqua Teen Hunger Force" and Homeland Security in Boston. There are videos of You Tube users that makes some fun of the characters and all of the sudden, You Tube removes it, due to a request from Viacom. Wait! Viacom, does not own Cartoon Network! Or, so does it? What are we talking about?
In the meantime, there is a report that Viacom is trying to start their own version of You Tube. Perhaps, that is where you may encounter Spongebob, Dora, The Backyardigans and EMPTY-V! However, Viacom, owns IFILM and is quite possible that you may find clips on their server, but most likely, they will charge for their content, while You Tube was posting the clips for FREE.
Also on a related matter, CBS Corporation will still use You Tube to promote their content, since they are no longer part of Viacom.
The CN Bomb continues......
There is more to the Cartoon Network's publicity bomb! Even Nick's Spongebob was part of it!
(2-1-07) The Cartoon Network's publicity bomb-stunt that caused a major nightmare in the Boston area on January 31, 2007, came to major hault and even another network toon was included in the hoax! It turns out that CNN did a report when the news came breaking earlier that day and somehow, there where reports of the Nickelodeon's "Spongebob Squarepants" character being placed in the so called bomb device. No, folks! The yellow sponge will not be participant of this insane stunt! However, 2 employees for the marketing company that Cartoon Network's parent company, Turner Broadcasting hired, are facing criminal charges for the publicity stint!
Meanwhile, Turner Broadcasting has requested the immediate removal of all the "Lite Brite" boards that despite the "Mooninite" character from Adult Swim's "Aqua Teen Hunger Force" series. But no word if Spongebob Squarepants will replace the Cartoon Network's character (At least that would never happen, unless CNN gives the information!).
The Adult Swim Bomb! CALL HOMELAND SECURITY!
It appears that "Pee Wee Herman" and "Frylock" are behind some Boston bomb squad!
(1-31-07) The Department of Homeland Security's threat level has been increased to "AQUA TEEN HUNGER FORCE!" What? No kidding! There was a weird bomb scare in the Boston, MA area that was caused by Cartoon Network's Adult Swim show. It caused The Department of Homeland Security to almost raise their threat level.
What started as a promo for the popular cartoon show from the overnight block, created some sort of a real scare and some intervention by the Federal Government. Cartoon Network placed several of the so called magnetic displays in some Boston locations and other US cities for the last 2 weeks, but a call to the local police by a non Cartoon Network viewer, started puzzling the authorities and even the Pentagon's Northern Command Center! The Governor of Massachusetts and the Mayor of Boston, where so upset with the CN's hoax and demanded an apology from the Network and a full investigation was to be launch by the FBI. Guess who was behind the hoax! Yes you know! He's trying to.....TAKE OVER THE WORLD!!!!!
Disney wants Grammys and Oscars!
"Cars" and "Pirates Of The Caribbean" will contend for the awards in February!
(1-25-07) Disney will try to snatch both, the Grammy and the Oscar awards during the February sweeps! Well, of course, Disney is the only contender so far, for the 49th Annual Grammy Awards, to be telecast on February 11, 2007. So, who cares if Mary J. Blige and Carrie Underwood of American Idol gets to steal that award? Look at the sole contender for the movies "Cars" and "Pirates of The Caribbean!" Disney itself is nominated in several categories. The "Cars" Soundtrack has a pair of nominations. The "Pirates Of The Caribbean" got one nomination and so it was Imogene Heap, for singing the song from "Chronicles Of Narnia!" Not to even include that soundtrack to the ABC's TV drama "Grey's Anatomy," with the music from Snow Patrol (Chasing Cars) and The Fray (How To Save A Life).
Then, after the Grammys, here comes The Oscars! Disney is being nominated for the Cars movie. But Disney won't be alone. Happy Feet and Monster House are among the contenders. The Oscars are to be revealed on February 25, 2007. So, good luck to Mickey Mouse, in getting some awards to the House of Mouse! Or as the Mickey Mouse Clubhouse of Disney Channel says: "We Got Ears, Say CHEERS!" That's literally speaking...
Super Bowl ads may reveal the new Transformers Movie?
Super Bowl ads may give details of the new Spielberg version of the 80's toy line based movie
(1-19-07) The Super Bowls ads may be well known for their controversial use of language or other content not allowed on national TV. Besides the beer ads and some Internet domain host trying to send ads to approval by CBS and The NFL, chances are that movie trailers will be well tolerated during the 1st and 2nd quarters of the big game.
What could be possible is that advertisements for several new movies that will be release sometime during 2007, will be seen at the game time. No information regarding what movies will be allowed to screen on Super Bowl night, has been released, since the ad agencies are negotiating the cost of the ad insertion, which is estimated in the $2.6 million dollars vicinity. But chances are that several movies that are hyping their fans, could be willing to spend the amount required by CBS.
Big studios like Disney, Warner Brothers, Universal and others, would try to send out some promo trailers for new movies coming out this year. Could it be possible a trailer for the new "Transformers" movie by Steven Spielberg, based on the popular toy line and animated series from the 1980's? Wait till February 4, when the Super Bowl will be played in Miami and seen on CBS.
Happy New Year 2007!
Save Animaniacs wishes you a happiest 2007 as we will start a new era in a different city!
(1-1-07) What could be more possible, is that Save Animaniacs Campaign, after 9 years in the Orlando FL area, will decide to re-locate outside of The Sunshine State. Where moving out of Orlando FL. Don't ask me how the whole thing started. I was having second toughs about it. As a result of Family decisions, they resolved to move out of Florida in early 2007. The new location may be Seattle Washington. Yes, the coldest place in the Norwest, may be the new base for SAC. Move over, Bill Gates, here comes Slappy Squirrel to settle down with the Warners!
Expect something about it, very soon!
The fans have been asking Mickey Mouse to bring Kim and the gang back to Disney Channel!
(1-1-07) It finally happened! Earlier in 2005, Disney Channel did not renewed the Kim Possible TV series, after reaching the limit of episodes to 65. After millions of fans crying out to Mickey Mouse for more episodes (I wish they do that for Animaniacs!), Kim Possible gets another chance with a new order of 22 episodes to start sometime in February 2007. As you know, Kim Possible has former Animaniacs voice actress Nancy Cartwright (Voice of Mindy), who also is heard as "Bart Simpson" in the FOX TV Series "The Simpson". She is the voice of "Rufus The Naked Mole" on Kim Possible.
New for 2007: He-Man and She-Ra on DVD
They still have the power to invade your DVD player!
(1-1-07) Just when you tough that the 80's flashbacks where a thing of the past, you hit the nail this time!
Now, you may wonder, did He-Man already was available? Or since when She-Ra was available on DVD?
My understanding is that He-Man was a 2 different version series. The original 1983 series was released in 2005. So what where talking here is the 1990's version of He-Man. Not the 80's version! Confuse?
Hold on! Let me clarify! For the He-Man fans, you can check the origins of the classic Mattel Toy that was animated by the now defunct FILMATION Studios. Today, the FILMATION library belongs to Entertainment Rights, who already purchased the Classic Media properties (See article "Another Owner for Veggie Tales"). Entertainment Rights is releasing the 1990's version of "The New Adventures Of He-Man"(Was this the animated version from DiC and Paravision International?).
Also the classic 1985 series "She-Ra: Princess Of Power" was released on DVD (Did I learn about it while at work?), this past Holiday Season. So if you have not yet noted, the classic TV series is available on DVD. Funny, but did "She-ra" use to have some cute furry guy with a moral message to the show. His name was "Loo-Kee" and he usually gets to hide somewhere in the She-Ra series and is up to the viewers to try to find the little guy, which was voiced by Lou Scheimer, the founder of the FILMATION Studio. Now, there's some flashbacks along the way!
News Archived 2006:
Creator of Yogi Bear and Huckelberry Hound, passed away, ending a legacy in animation history.
(12-18-06) Joseph Barbera, the creator of hundreds of beloved cartoons and half partner of William Hanna and co-founder of the Hanna-Barbera Studios for the popular cartoons like Tom & Jerry and Scooby Doo, passed away at the age of 95. Our toughs and prayers for the family of one of the greatest animators in history. Will sure miss Joseph Barbera.
That Postcard came from Buster?
The infamous bunny toon is making a comeback, but not to visit some sugar moms.
(12-18-06) The controversial Buster Baxter of PBS animated series "Arthur" has decided to make a sweet comeback. Back in 2005, we where all disturbed to find out that the US Department of Education was reprimanding, the then PBS president Pat Mitchell, due that a cartoon and live TV series was approaching the issue of sugar making with a group of kids living with 2 moms. After the aftermath, we tough that Buster will no longer be allowed to have his own TV show, aside of "Arthur." However, earlier this year we found out that Buster was given a second chance, because of a partnership made by some private organizations that told PBS that the series must continue on, regardless the particular episode that was banned from US telecasting. Now, PBS is offering season 2 of "Postcards From Buster" with a slated premiere of 10 episodes. 5 of them where already released and the remainder 5 will be seen during the month of February 2007. Even a 3rd season could be in planning stages right now. But of course, the test of time will decide the fate of the cute 'alien' bunny from "Arthur".
Another owner for Veggie Tales?
Classic Media sold to the UK's Entertainment Rights! Now as He-Man says "I HAVE THE POWER!"
(12-15-06) No kidding! He-Man will be happy to know that he will join Veggie Tales and other popular toons. It was announced the merging of the Classic Media group into the UK based Entertainment Rights. Just earlier in 2004, Classic Media bought the property of Veggie Tales and the faith group Big Idea Productions. At the same time, Entertainment Rights was buying the properties of the use to be know as FILMATION Studios with characters like He-Man and She-Ra with Fat Albert and Ghostbusters (The one with the gorilla!).
Now the new owners of Veggie Tales and other characters like Rudolph The Red Nose Reindeer and Rocky & Bullwinkle, will enjoy the big profits that this characters are providing and one of them is in the form of the QUBO block for NBC-Universal (NBC, Telemundo, I Networks) and the current DVD releases for the Filmation library and other media content.
At this point where not aware about the future regarding the Employees of the Classic Media, but as being merged into an UK company, chances are for lay-off to occur and not to mention if the merged media will still working with NBC-Universal on the QUBO projects. More will come in 2007.
"The Last Unicorn" movie; still alive in 2007!
For those that have early flashbacks to the 80's, here is a good one!
(12-15-06) Here is a classic from the early 80's that is making a comeback! Does anyone remember a younger Mia Farrow, even before meeting the controversial movie director Woody Allen? Or how about the younger Christopher Lee of "The Lord Of The Rings" and "Charlie and The Chocolate Factory" (Not Willy Wonka!)? Or how about legendary Actress Angela Lansbury of the "Murder She Wrote" series on CBS around the 1970's? (If you don't know her, how about the singing teapot "Mrs. Potts" from Disney's Beauty And The Beast?) So, if you are familiar with the original voice cast and remember this classic movie, make your flashbacks count folks!
Now, to start a little bit of history of "The Last Unicorn" movie: It was first released in 1982 and based on the work by Peter S. Beagle. The movie was done with a partnership from ITC International (They did the 1970's "The Muppet Show") along with Rankin/Bass (Rudolph The Red Nose Reindeer, The Little Drummer Boy and Thundercats), but it was using a Japanese animation studio that later evolved into Studio Ghilbi (Spirited Away, Kiki's Delivery). Some of you that have seen this movie, may noted the Anime style, even tough it is an American made movie. This movie was also released on The UK and Germany as well.
Also as a matter of a TRIVIA fact, the character of "The Red Bull" has nothing to do with the energy drink with the name RED BULL. The music for the movie was done by rock group AMERICA (Horse With No Name, Ventura Highway) and the title soundtrack for "The Last Unicorn" was on top of the German charts. While it was done by Rankin/Bass, this movie was not part of the library owned by either Classic Media (Now part of Entertainment Rights) or Warner Brothers. The movie was under the Carlton Television Group that is now known as ITV. The movie has a bigger fan base in Germany and the movie has been released on DVD. A DVD was previously released in the USA, but the bad quality of the original was used, since it was somewhat acquired by another source. The new release is using the original print and remastered the same way the German version was. The new DVD is being released by Lionsgate Entertainment. The author of the work, Peter S. Beagle was never paid any royalties for the movie and he keeps a legal fight against ITV's Grenada Media, who owns the movie. It was reported that there are talks to compensate Beagle for The Last Unicorn movie royalties.
The Last Unicorn movie will be released in February 2006.
The Wiggles loosing Greg Page to illness!
Illness is not life-treatning, but will disable the founding member for life!
(12-03-06) Not even in the Holiday season, you can have better news! To make things worse, the star of the hit Disney series "The Wiggles" and founding member Greg Page, reported that his illness will not allow him to perform as he use to. So he has taken the painful decision of leaving the quartet permanently and decided to give his role to his replacement Sam Moran. Now, what could it be worse than having the Telettubies leaving PBS? Wishing well to Mr Page and hopefully, he decided to make a comeback!
Penguin became Idol? It's a Happy Feet thing!
James Bond can ask a singing penguin, how to steal the box office, or better ask Simon Cowell!
(11-19-06) Did happen again! James Bond got snubbed by penguins! American Idol Penguin edition, or should I say its "Happy Feet" who melted the new James Bond movie. The movie critics where stumbled to find out that a movie for kids which features the voices of Robin Williams and Elija Woods, would make it even bigger than "Casino Royale" the new 007 movie with new 'Bond' actor Daniel Craig. What is really weird was that the 2 movies where so close by at least $2 million dollars! Happy Feet opened with over $42 million dollars at the box office, while "Casino Royale" ended in the $40 million mark!
We are looking for Hello Kitty and Blues Clues!
Japanese makers of Hello Kitty will also be handling the Nick JR brand and will pair the characters too!
(10-19-06) If Steven Burns is reading this, would be singing, "We are looking for Hello Kitty and Blues Clues, cause is a really big game!" Or how about Donovan "Joe" Paton singing, "We found out! We figure it out! What Hello Kitty was all about! WOW! You know what? Where really smart!"
LOL! We found out what nobody would ever think of. Hello Kitty, a powerful namesake in Japan, is making a bow for American sensation Blues Clues. Sort of! But it turns out that Sanrio, a well know toy maker and creator of the Hello Kitty brand in Asia, has legally acquired the Blues Clues brand from Viacom USA. Of course, who could be more than happy than Blue's creator Tracy Paige Johnson, who claim that Blue was inspired by Hello Kitty, who first appeared in 1974 in a toy store in Tokyo and then flying all the way to the USA. So now, Blue made the way back to her root place. But wait! This does not mean that Blue will try to bark in Japanese, cause she doesn't speak.....Did I forgot the "Blue's Room" thing? Also Hello Kitty can't speak in Japanese, cause she has no mouth!
If you ask me, in the future the Japanese should pair Dora The Explorer with Goku of Dragon Ball fame....
Or how about Pikachu of Pokemon with Sponge Bob Square Pants? Wait and see!
Snoopy, Pikachu and Foster going on parade!
Is the Turkey tradition that is making it happen! 80 years of Macy's Thanksgiving Parade coming soon!
(10-19-06) Yes, is back! The traditional Thanksgiving Day Parade and of course is Macy's that is making it bigger than ever, in their 80th birthday celebration. Bigger and better balloons (Don't expect another crash like the last year's M&M balloon!) are being develop and just a few has been revealed. One is the new version of Snoopy of Peanuts and a stand up Pikachu of Pokemon fame. Then there is a float for Cartoon Network's Foster Home For Imaginary Friends and also a History Channel theme float that where revealed. But it seems like Macy is going to surprise us and their are like lips sealed right now. So expect more information in the next few days.
The Veggie Tales cannot say "God" on NBC!
What is causing some religious activist to complaint the Peacock Network about some kids oriented veggies?
(10-01-06) What are the big networks thinking about religious observance in cartoons? Recently, there was the "Sabrina" on CBS issue (Read below) and now, is the "Veggie Tales" on NBC issue! But the issue is not about the E/I rated content, it is because NBC is discouraging the use of "God" or Bible theme references in the animated shows "Veggie Tales" and "1-2-3 Penguins." Those shows became part of the new NBC Saturday Morning block under the banner "Qubo" (Means Cube in Spanish!), which is also shared by their siblings Telemundo and I Networks.....Was that Pax TV?
The whole issue is started by NBC when editing the Veggie Tales TV series for broadcast in the network. The series is actually 30 minutes long, without the commercials. So NBC has to cut out some material. Some material may have included the final segments where the Veggies share stories based on The Bible. Then comes the religious groups and finds out that the word of our creator is erased from the NBC's airwaves and here begins the religious war! "Larry The Cucumber" is mostly annoyed to hear that God can't even be mentioned on TV! But yet is OK to mention "Sabrina The Teenage Witch!" Was next? To see "Animaniacs" references to God and Jesus being removed from the series too?
This classic Hedgehog was deeply darker than the 4KIDS version of Sonic X! It's heading to DVD soon!
(10-01-06) Well, we all remember Saturday Morning cartoons in the early 90's. Specifically, the 1993-94 season, when ABC TV did have some good cartoons, besides the Disney take over was about to happen (This was even before the annoying ABC KIDS block from Disney Channel took over!). At that particular time, the Saturday Morning cartoons where mostly the so called "Video Game" type of shows, like "Captain N: The Game Master," "The Super Mario's Super Show" and of course the deeply darker version of "Sonic The Hedgehog!"
Now, it is not the current 4KIDS version of "Sonic X" that you see on the FOX's 4KIDS TV block. It was that DIC Entertainment and ABC TV where doing a Saturday Morning version of the popular game from SEGA Enterprises. The animated show was based on the game, but it also provided an unusual darker theme character, besides another animated "Sonic The Hedgehog" TV series that was also made by DIC, but for the Bohbot Entertainment D.B.A. BKN International (Mostly known as the "Adventures of Sonic The Hedgehog").
The ABC version got lots of fans, but even with the lower ratings, the show was able to survive up to 26 episodes or 2 seasons, until 1995. Another Sonic The Hedgehog cartoon was made, called "Sonic Underground" for the now defunct UPN Network (Part of THE CW Network). In that particular version of "Sonic The Hedgehog" from ABC TV, the voices of Jaleel White (Best known for "Steve Urkel" of Family Matters), Kath Soucie (Rugratts/Clifford The Big Red Dog/Life & Times Of Juniper Lee), Jim Cummings (Winnie The Pooh) and Rob Paulsen (Animaniacs/Pinky & The Brain) where credited on the show as well.
Now DIC has informed that they will release the darker version of "Sonic The Hedgehog" on DVD sometime in 2007. So for the hard core fan of the "Fastest Thing Alive" (The theme song of course!) known as "Sonic The Hedgehog" (Sat-Am 1993), the wait is almost over!
More complaints for Sabrina The Animated Series!
FCC rules may have to be reviewed, after religious group inquiry of TV licensing violations...HELLO CBS!
(9-16-06) CBS may have more eyes than their logo, but to get into the religious battle arena, all because of the cartoon known as Sabrina The Animated Series, based on the DC Comics strip. The DIC animated series is now available for broadcast in the new KOL Slumber Party block that use to be the Nick on CBS block, until Viacom split out of the Eye outlet last year.
However, here is some shocking news for those that need some advise from the Federal Goverment itself! I should know that the FCC rules regarding the kids programing, better known as E/I rules, needs to be reviewed and better impose. Here is why: This past week, some Church group requested to the FCC about their case against 4 TV outlets in the Washington DC and Boston MA area. The FCC is reviewing the TV licensing of the 4 TV station, which includes a FOX, PAX (I-NET) and Hispanic outlet UNIVISION (Hear that Power Rangers!), being cited as broadcasting TV shows that did not met the FCC guidelines for E/I shows.
The group known as The United Church Of Christ, claimed that the FCC had 4 complaints against 4 TV stations in 2004 and 2005 and to this day, those complaints where not answered and they wrote a letter to the FCC Chairman Kevin Martin, about the status of the complaint. The claims mention that the PAX TV outlet violated the FCC rules, when broadcasting the TV series "Miracle Pets", while the FOX TV station was doing the "Sabrina The Animated Series" and "Stargate Infinity" series. The report also mentioned that Hispanic TV outlet UNIVISION was broadcasting an adult oriented drama called "Complices Al Rescate".
(Well, first of all, UNIVISION was not broadcasting an adult oriented drama, as the group claims! The above mentioned series was mostly a drama but was edited to includes the kids acting in the series and besides, the main character was portrayed by child stars Belinda Peregrin and Daniela Lujan.)
So, as to say the least, I don't know if the FCC has been able to solve the drama regarding the E/I rules for Kids shows, but there goes the fine line! In the meantime, lets see how CBS does handle the episode with the Sabrina The Animated series. As for UNIVISION, I did saw the "Complices Al Rescate" series and I fully disagree with the groups idea of the adult oriented drama. By the way, here is the "Complices Al Rescate" clip from You Tube, just to remind you that the drama is not what it was tell above.
Steve Irwin The Crocodile Hunter 1962-2006
From The Australian Zoo to The Discovery Channel and all around the world, where sad to see him go :(
(9-4-06) A tragic end came on Labor Day for famous TV naturalist Steve Irwin, better know world wide as The Crocodile Hunter. Irwin was making a TV special for broadcast most likely on The Discovery Channel, but then without a warning, a close encounter with a stingray fish, was the cause of this irreparable loss. We know how hard is to see this news coming all of the sudden and hitting hard the millions of fans that enjoy the craziness that this man has brought to our attention. You may not know this, but because of Steve Irwin, The Discovery Channel created the Animal Planet Network to not only be the official network for The Crocodile Hunter, but those who care enough of the animals that live and share our world. Our toughs and prayers to all friends and families of the great Crocodile Hunter Steve Irwin. We'll miss you 'Crockey Mate!
Is The Simpsons going to take over Rush Limbaugh and The Monsters? Doh!
(8-28-06) This looks so laughable to me, but The New York Times came with this zany article, on how FOX agree to run 2 seconds bumpers on all the Clear Channel radio stations in the USA.
Put it this way.... Hear this song on the radio and all of the sudden comes Homer yelling "Wooo Hooo!" Or even worse, hear Orlando's The Monsters in The Morning on XM radio and hear Bart yelling "Ay Caramba!" Or worse case scenario....Rush Limbaugh talks about the Middle East crisis and then comes Apu to tell Rush "Thank You and come again!"
No folks! This is not my imagination! FOX did bought bumpers for Clear Channel and they will use those on September 10, 2006. I guess the promo fantasy from FOX, came from one of those Clear Channel promos that are inserted between songs, the ones that says "Be the 1000 caller nationwide and win this prize!" So, now when you hear All American Rejects singing the "Move Along" song, expect the "Don't have a cow" phrase from Bart himself!
The smoking gun of Tom & Jerry?
Popular cartoon faces censorship in the UK. Could affect the USA?
(8-24-06) The smoking gun is here! No, is not an ad for tobacco giant Phillip Morris USA! It is the popular cartoon Tom & Jerry that has the smoking gun! Believe it or not, an English lad found out that the cat and mouse duo where involve in offensive behavior. The 1940's cartoon "Texas Tom," was being played on UK TV and showed Tom the cat, using some tobacco and a piece of paper to form a cigarette and then, Tom smokes it in front of the female cat. Then, Tom blows the smoke from his mouth and form the word "HOWDY!"
Well, this scene has been seen worldwide for 50+ years and all of the sudden, is the HEADLINE maker!
(Forget, Tom Cruise been fired of Viacom!)
Now, the word is that Warner Brothers and Turner Entertainment are reviewing the cartoons made by Hanna-Barbera (Then, part of MGM Studios) in the 1940's and 50's to remove any reference that involves the use of tobacco and smoking. So, you may be thinking.....WHAT THE %$*@%& IS WARNER BROTHERS THINKING????
So, you could be thinking the 'unthinkable'......CENSORSHIP!!!!!!!
(Kids, you should learn that smoking is not good for your health! But to censor a cartoon? That's UNHEALTHY!)
But the DIC produced block still draws controversy, thanks to Sabrina!
(8-3-06) CBS has revealed the KOL Slumber Party that is produced by the DIC Entertainment and will replace the current NICK on CBS slot that will end in late August. However the DIC block is already drawing controversy, since the block will have the animated TV series "Sabrina The Teenage Witch". Just recently, a group was slamming over DIC Entertainment's Andy Heyward, for having a non E/I TV series in markets that already complies with the E/I requirements from the FCC. In fact, some TV outlets are been reviewed by the FCC, on the grounds that they where violating the Children acts that where mandated several years back. Some of the violations, are related to the broadcast of the "Sabrina" cartoon. Others are smaller infractions that involves the number of ads that stations can play during the kids block. I really don't mind of the "Sabrina" cartoon, but I would place the "Liberty Kids" instead! The CBS block will have, besides "Sabrina", the cartoons "Madeline" (Use to be on Disney Channel!) and "Trolls" along with live action TV shows "CAKE" and "Dance Revolution".
Animaniacs gets their major DVD release and now they are part of AOL's IN2TV
(7-21-06) Animaniacs are going out on DVD and selected episodes are now available for you to view in the AOL's IN2TV service and quite surprising it is available in both English and Español for the hispanic audience!
New cast for Pokemon series revealed!
Still sad that the cast of the former producer (4KIDS) is not been given a chance to make up their case!
(7-21-06) Just recently, the new voice cast of the cartoon series "Pokemon" was revealed at the San Diego Comic-Con. This may be the fact that the original voice cast of the once produced by 4KIDS Entertainment show, was never considered to continue working on the show. It is quite sad to see good talent like Veronica Taylor and Eric Stuart been replaced by cheap VA's from the TAJ company that work before in the Pokemon series, but it was that 4KIDS decided to do it on their own. They (4KIDS) did never considered using cheap voice cast and recruited the cast that was working at TAJ around 2004. So now, why both Pokemon USA and TAJ are refusing to have the original cast in place? Is it money matters issue? Pokemon USA says they can't have the original cast because of legal issues with 4KIDS Entertainment.
Veronica Taylor who was until recently, the voice of "Ash" (Trainer of Pikachu), has said that the cast was never asked to join the new dubbing and as far as I know, they are only contracted to work in the 4KIDS TV series, but as far as I know, they have non exclusive status with the company, but Pokemon USA says they do have it. I don't like these issues myself, but perhaps it is giving the impression that "Pokemon" will most likely become another cheap anime like those that you see on the Anime Network (No offense to those who watch the "Azumanga Daioh" series!). In the meantime, the new cast started dubbing some of the "Pokemon Battle Frontier" series that will start showing on Cartoon Network in the fall 2006. In fact, they showed several of the new episodes at the San Diego Comic-Con show recently, while having a Q&A with the new voice cast.
Also at the same time, here in Orlando there is the annual Anime Convention at the Windham Resort on I-Drive and Sand Lake Rd in Orlando (This for you folks who has come to the Orlando area, is the corner where the world largest McDonalds is located). One of the guest to the convention is no other than Veronica Taylor, who may have to answer the question of why she is no longer voicing "Ash" and "May" in the TV series. If you are planning to attend the convention, tell "Ash" that you are against the cheap voice cast (Please no flaming her talent!). I would love to go, but the work schedule is tight (Even you may ask why I don't update the site too often!), but just say hi on our behalf!
Oh, by the way, the only Pokemon VA that is not leaving and will never leave, it has to be Ikue Otani, the real voice of "Pikachu" and of course "Dot Warner".... That is for you Japan fans of the show! Dot Warner was voiced by Tress McNeill ("The Simpson")
Eerie! Pee-Wee! Cartoon Network gets him?
Old school 80's joins the "Adult Swim" block.
(6-22-06) Easy on the 80's! And is not another VH1 Classics in concert! It came to my knowledge, that Cartoon Network's Adult Swim block, got a hold of the late 80's "Pee-Wee's Playhouse" TV series! It is slated for July 10, 2006.
Now, some of you still have fond memories of the character created by Paul Reubens. A former Florida native, who became well know for his unusual gray vest with a red bow and a weird laugh! Similar to "The Simpsons" "Krusty The Clown".
To be more specific, around 1985, the first movie for Reubens was "Pee-Wee's Big Adventure", that followed the kiddy look character in a race to find his priceless bicycle. Since then, a TV show was created for CBS. It was as big as "Garfield and Friends" and was the most kiddy friendly shows ever made. Until a 1991 incident caused the end of this character!
How it happened? I won't go into detail, but Paul Reuben's arrest in Sarasota Florida back in 1991, caused a negative effect in the role of "Pee-Wee Herman", to the point that the character has been left out in the dark. Until recently, Cartoon Network revealed that they where having "Pee-Wee's Playhouse" inside the "Adult Swim" block that include the 80's sitcom "Saved By The Bell" and some Anime like "Inuyasha" and FOX's "Family Guy". So, if you still wanted to know what ever became about "Pee-Wee Herman"? Now you should know!
Pokemon gets season 9 on Cartoon Network
New season won't have original voice cast.
(6-22-06) Just to update on the fact that Pikachu and company, will still have a home, after the dismissal of the KIDS WB block, once The CW Network takes over. Cartoon Network has ordered 52 episodes of the new "Pokemon Battle Frontier" that will start sometime in the fall 2006. Pokemon USA has revealed that the new home for Pokemon in the USA will have all the episodes from Pokemon that where broadcast on KIDS WB and where produced by 4KIDS Entertainment. The new season 9 for Pokemon Battle Frontier will be produced by Pokemon USA, but will use another dubbing facility and a new voice cast that will replace the original voices of the cartoon series. Also, for your knowledge, the "Pokemon Chronicles" series that was also made by 4KIDS Entertainment, started to run on Cartoon Network, a few weeks back and had been well received. But I still wonder if I will ever hear Veronica "Ash and May" Taylor and the others having their voice in the popular cartoon?
Univision goes GOOOOOOAAAAAAL for sale!
Bidders may include former "Power Rangers" producer Haim Saban and Mexican TV giant TELEVISA!
(6-22-06) GOOOOOOOOOAAAAAAAAL! That is the cry out catchy phrase that you will likely hear at the UNIVISION hispanic language network, while covering the big WORLD CUP from Germany! How about another cry out phrase? Something like "GO GO POWER RANGERS"? Hold it! What "Mighty Morphin Power Rangers" has to do with UNIVISION and The WORLD CUP anyway?
While the prestige WORLD CUP runs in Germany, soccer fans in the USA tunes in to UNIVISION (I guess they prefer them, over ABC/ESPN broadcast!), most likely to cheer up their favorite teams! However, down on Wall Street, there is another cry out phrase, making its way: "BID BID POWER RANGERS!" ( LOL!)
It turns out that former 'Mighty Morphin Power Rangers" Executive Producer, Haim Saban, is considering a buy out for the UNIVISION Hispanic TV outlet! For your knowledge, remember way in the 80's and 90's, that Haim Saban along with Shuki Levy, formed the kids entertainment giant "Saban Enterprises" that later, became part of the FOX KIDS block (The first home to Animaniacs, in case you forgot!). Saban eventually sold their assets to FOX, then FOX sold it to Mickey Mouse, AKA, Disney Enterprises!
So, the one responsible for the "Power Rangers" mania many years back, is now getting his GOOOOOAAAAL at the Hispanic Network Univision! I'll bet that you may see The Power Rangers doing some "Novela" in that channel! Of course, there is a bid war going on between "The Power Rangers" mogul Saban and Mexican TV giant TELEVISA, who is the main producer of the Univision's TV Novelas and some comedy shows (Yes, they are the ones that made famous the "Chespirito" character of "El Chavo!"). So stay tuned to this bidding war!
Female host chosen to host the PBS KIDS block during the fall 2006.
(5-31-06) It turns out that PBS KIDS is using a new animated character named "Ruff Ruffman" to host a reality TV series, where kids are told to do some strange experiments with frozen rats (For real!). The series is called "Fetch!" Is a cartoon dog and real kids exploring different issues, while having fun at the same time.
In the meantime, PBS KIDS has announced that starting next fall, there will be a new hostess to join the PBS KIDS lineup. Introducing Ms. Lori Horton Nash, a Chicago based teacher and performer that was selected during a nationwide search for the PBS KIDS Host of the 2 hour block that will feature the new animated series "Curious George," along with current favorites "Clifford The Big Red Dog", "Dragon Tales" and "It's a Big, Big World". Also PBS KIDS will be introducing an animated co-host for Nash eventually, according to sources. More to come.
New Season 10 "Arthur" gives a look inside hospital
The PBS KIDS TV series returns with a salute to the Red Sox and makes fun of TV series "Law and Order"
(5-24-06) In case you noted, PBS KIDS TV series "Arthur" came back for their 10 anniversary showdown, offering 10 new episodes that portrays the cute Aardvark and his sidekick pal "Buster" the controversial bunny from their spin off series "Postcards From Buster". But what controversy did they tough of it? Bring the Red Sox key players for an episode! Along that, they where making fun of NBC's drama "Law And Order" and "Lemony Snicket's Series Of Unfortunate Events."
However, there is one particular episode that goes inside real life! The episode "DW's Emergency!" Explores the inside of an operating room, as "DW", "Arthur's" little sister is going to be intervened . In the meantime, The kids from Elwood City are joining forces with the Boston's Children Hospital to create a web site that teaches kids how to cope with the visit to the hospital before and after surgery. So, if you want to catch the new 10th season of "Arthur", check PBS KIDS for the details!
Flying Pikachu? Hello Macy's!
Thanksgiving Day Parade Balloon favorite is let off for a test drive!
(5-24-06) What could be so strange, to walk around Broadway and 5th Ave in NYC, on a Monday in late May, to see a traditional Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade balloon going for a test drive? No! You where not daydreaming! Actually there was a Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade Balloon going out for a test drive. Maybe Macy's did heard about the "Pokemon" dub controversy....
Actually, Macy's did a flyby of the Pikachu Balloon that is part of the traditional Thanksgiving Day Parade, but the balloon came too early for display. However, Macy's is continuing the investigation that started at the last November's parade, when a balloon for M&M RED & BLUE came crashing down over the parade audience, sending a child and parent to the hospital. Luckily there where no serious injuries on that accident. However, Macy's was trying to figure out safe ways to display the giant balloons during the Holiday tradition and they asked, Pokemon USA, the owners of the big Pikachu Balloon, to have the big yellow rat to play a game of wind blown with some investigative team working for Macy's in the incident investigation. What would be the results? Maybe that would mean a smaller scale version of the character balloons that dances every Thanksgiving Day.
KIDS WB won't have Pokemon!
The re-dub controversy has made the new THE CW to tell POKEMON USA, "Forget about Pokemon!"
(4-24-06) Even with the new controversy involving Pikachu and friends with the new POKEMON USA, regarding the re-dub of the series, now came word that the new THE CW Network that will replace THE WB and UPN next fall, has decided not to acquire the new Pokemon series and instead will fill the KIDS WB block with Warner Brothers animated shows. By the way, I would love to see Animaniacs with new episodes on the new block!
However that won't happen! The new KIDS WB line up, when merged to CBS's THE CW, will have the current KIDS WB shows from Warner Brothers Television Animation, like "Loonatics Unleashed," "The Batman" and "Xiaolim Showdown." Added to the line up is a spin off of the "Scooby Doo" cartoons, a new version of "Tom & Jerry" and a new DC Comics re-make of the "Legion of Super Heroes" cartoon.....Wait! Is that "Super Friends" making a comeback? Also the sucky "Pillow Head" hour will stay, just to comply with the FCC E/I rules!
Just to make things clear, POKEMON under the 4KIDS Banner is already ending next month in May (Not the May/Max related character!). Also YU-GI-OH is no longer on the network, after all is ending too!
But what about Pikachu and friends? They are still making episodes in Japan and currently, the show is being dubbed......YUCK!....with the new POKEMON USA cast that replaced the voices of Veronica Taylor and Eric Stuart. Still a mystery, of where the cartoon will be seen. I would bet it will go to Cartoon Network. However chances are that the POKEMON USA may offer the cartoon to another broadcast network....Could it fit the new FOX's MY NETWORK TV? Would it be seen on ABC KIDS? Wait! Don't place it on ABC KIDS, cause the Orlando station WFTV will fill the space with local news or Jack Hanna's Animal Adventures! Or perhaps, would it be part of NBC TV, since they got rid of DISCOVERY KIDS? More to come! Piiikaaa!
4KIDS to have 4SIGHT!
New branch would deal with some properties from Microsoft's XBOX
(4-24-06) Recently, 4KIDS Entertainment who gave up the rights over POKEMON, has announced a new branch to handle some properties from Microsoft's XBOX games. 4SIGHT Licensing Solutions will handle the properties related to the Microsofts Games Division, this according to 4KIDS Entertainment's CEO Alfred Kahn. It may be also possible that the new branch would handle other properties as their parent company 4KIDS already does.
Update on POKEMON voice cast replacement
Where adding a campaign section on the Save Animaniacs Campaign!
(4-7-06) Save Animaniacs Campaign is lending some space to the fight to save the Pokemon English dub that has been the subject of the controversy, surrounding that the new owners of the TV series at POKEMON USA has decided to re-cast the voices of POKEMON and replace them with sound alike voice actors that would request less payment for the dubbing without caring for the quality of the series.
To add more to the issue, here is the fact that on April 29, 2006, there will be a POKEMON TV Special to celebrate the 10th Anniversary of the property invasion in the gaming world (Remember the infamous episode that caused epilepsy?). The fact is that this TV special is using the new voice cast of the POKEMON TV series and that is why the current request to save the POKEMON English dub! The voices of Veronica Taylor and Eric Stuart, along with other cast members of POKEMON will not be heard in this 10th Anniversary episode (Broadcast on KIDS WB). Instead, the sound alike actors will voice "Ash" and friends, but most likely, no one will ever hear the difference. We have already heard the outcry of fans of the TV series and I have even get in touch with Veronica Taylor (Ash/May), one of the POKEMON voice cast that has been replaced by another voice to portray the "Pikachu's" partner.
Veronica Taylor (Ash) has let me know on her e-mail, the following:
The whole situation is a bit perplexing to say the least. Pokemon USA is making decisions on this and not giving anyone a chance to have a say in the matter. I think they are even using a studio around the corner from where we currently dub Pokemon. Anyway, I am hoping that if enough people write/email Pokemon USA and voice their displeasure, maybe they will realize their mistake before it is too late. It's worth a try!
Voltron: Defender of the DVD Universe.....
World Events pitches the DVD release of all the Voltron TV series. Yes, the Lion and the Vehicle Voltron!
(3-31-06) More news coming to all Voltron fans! World Events Production is announcing the long awaited DVD release of the original VOLTRON: Defender Of The Universe TV series. The original anime that caught our attention in the mid 80's, is making a comeback! According to sources, the new collection of DVD's will hit the street this fall. Around mid September to be exact! The series is being handed by Media Blasters.
But, remember some time, I did mentioned that World Events Productions was mad because Media Blasters did in fact acquired the DVD rights, not to VOLTRON: Defender of The Universe! But to the original TV series, "Beast King: GO LION?" It appears that World Events was almost, filing some lawsuit against Media Blasters, since World Events still claiming the copyrights to the original series. Now a mutual agreement has been seed between WEP and MB for the current rights of the series.
It is true, that World Events Production still has the rights to VOLTRON. But TOEI Animation in Japan, thinks that actually VOLTRON is an American name that was given to 2 Animes they did on the early 80's. Actually, "Beast King: GO LION" and "Armored Squadron Dairugger XV", where merged by World Events as part of the "Voltron" saga! No wonder why 5 robot lions would met 15 vehicles out of nowhere!
Can someone please explain if "Pidge" and "Chip" are really brothers? The 2 are never met in the series, but thanks to World Events Productions, when the series was merged, they have to link one "Go Lion" episode, to "Dairruger XV", causing the rare combination! In "Dairugger XV" there was some episode about "Chip's" past and all of the sudden, World Events make us believe that "Chip" have a brother! WAIT! He has no brother!
Confuse? Yes, you may! However, the good news out of the confusion, is that Media Blaster will still be able to release the original TOEI animated versions of both "Go Lion" and "Dairugger XV". Finally, the little white lie that World Event did, is going to be revealed! LOL!!!
DIC on CBS? Here's what to expect!
At least 3 new series will join DIC originals at the eye network!
(3-31-06) The new line up for DIC on CBS (Replacing the NICK on CBS), has been announced. Some of the shows will be new features and some will be classic animated shows, Recently, DIC Entertainment, did reacquired, some of the TV series that where sold to Disney around the mid 90's. So expect to watch "Madeline" and "Cyber-Chase", but you may find rare ones like "Care Bears" (Not the Nelvana version?) or "Get Along Gang"....
The new DIC ON CBS line up will have 3 new animated shows:
"Horseland", "Littlest Pet Shop" and "Kooky Kitchen". It also calls for production of live action shows. One of them is known so far as "Dance, Dance Dance" and the other one as "Cake". As for the classic series, the block will have "Trollz", "Madeline" and former ABC's "Sabrina: The Animated Series".
SAVE 'POKEMON' VOICE ACTORS NOW!!!!!
Campaign launched to let POKEMON USA known that replacing the voices of POKEMON is UNFAIR!
(3-22-06) What seems to me like an expected twist of events, I did not wanted to make a mention, but now I am going forward with it!
Guess what? After 4KIDS ENTERTAINMENT gave up the worldwide rights to POKEMON, outside the Asian Continent, the new partners known as POKEMON USA (Related to NINTENDO of course!) are going ahead with the dubbing of the series, however, the voices that you may hear, are not the same as those that 4KIDS did provided. In other words, Eric Stuart (James/Brock) and Veronica "Ash" Taylor, cannot lend their voices into their characters from now on.
Since 4KIDS Entertainment is no longer dubbing the Pokemon series (The last dubbed 4KIDS episode of "Pokemon Advance Battle" will come on Saturday March 25, 2006 on the soon-to-be defunct KIDS WB), now comes word that POKEMON USA will hire voice actors that should sound like the ones that made Eric Stuart (James/Brock), Veronica Taylor (Ash/May), Rachel Lilis (Jesse/Misty) and Addie Blaustein (Meowth, that's right!) so bonded with their "Pokemon" characters.
I simply call this an UNFAIR practice. I don't know if it is related to cost cutting, or that some people think that 4KIDS was unfair in the english dubbing, often replacing theme songs from the Japanese Anime and make it more like American made tunes. What will become of the real voices of Pokemon? I know they will continue dubbing for other 4KIDS shows, currently on the FOX Network's 4KIDS TV. But how come, that after 8 years using the same voices of POKEMON, the new partner decides to change the formula for success? Let's not forget what happened to "The Simpsons", not in America, but south of the border, in Mexico! The Spanish language cast that has been working on The Simpsons for 10 years, where fired, to make room for low cost voice actors. You wonder, maybe a 7 or 10 year old kid won't notice the change of voice actors. But lots of people that are fans of the show, should know that those folks that make the real voices of the Pokemon series in America, deserves to be allowed to continue their labor of love for the animated show.
In Japan, the original voices of Pokemon, are still doing their job and what if, all of the sudden, TV Tokyo comes and fires all the voice cast, including the one that does PIKACHU in the Pokemon series? A Thunder-Bolt would not solve the problem, I know! But for goodness sakes! Please let those guys working in the Pokemon dubbing in America to continue their hard work. So, if you agree with my input, here is what to do:
SEREBII.NET is running a petition to let POKEMON USA know that we still want to hear from the cast of the actual series. I don't believe that the actors are an exclusive property of the 4KIDS Entertainment. I know so far that they are considered as independent contractor (At least one of the cast members told me that, but I will not tell who did, to avoid a problem!). So if that matter is cost related, then they should be ashamed for letting good talent to be replaced by bad quality talent. What would I expect? To hear the voices of "Arthur" and "Buster" of PBS KIDS yelling "PIKACHU! I CHOOSE YOU!" GET OUT OF HERE!!!!!
NBC says: 'NO DEAL' with Discovery Kids!
The Saturday Morning block could be filled with re-runs of DEAL OR NO DEAL! ?????
(3-20-06) What? I can't even imagine DEAL OR NO DEAL (Which reminds me of "Bobby's World"), playing on Saturday mornings, comes fall 2006! For those of you who are not aware...Remember the cartoon "Bobby's World" that was aired on FOX with ANIMANIACS? That cartoon, was made by comedian and TV host Howie Mandel. He was the voice of "Bobby" an imaginary friend or alter ego of him, along with Frank Welker of "Scooby Doo" and ANIMANIACS "Ralph The Guard" and "Runt". Now Howie Mandel (Without hair?) is making a DEAL at NBC with that game!
Now back to DEAL OR NO DEAL, comes word that NBC canceled the agreement with Discovery Kids and although no word yet of what cartoons will be played on Saturday morning, yet it looks to me that NBC will only deal with that new game show that Howie Mandel placed on the Prime Time schedules! Would it means that a cartoon version of DEAL OR NO DEAL may be in place? I prefer the repeats of "Bobby's World" myself! NO DEAL!!!!!
What FOX is thinking? New network could have NICK JR?
Since CBS bailed out of "Blues Clues" chances are that the new MY NETWORK TV would play the clues too!
(3-20-06) Here is something that is not yet been figured out by the network executives, but some undercover agents from Save Animaniacs Campaign, has figured out something is brewing at FOX's News Corp! Remember that earlier this year, the big announcement came that by fall 2006, The WB and UPN Networks would be replaced by THE CW NETWORK, the future home to "Pokemon" and "The Batman", along with UPN TV series like "America's Next Top Model" and "WWC's Smackdown"?
Well, little did you know that FOX's TV outlets that serves as UPN affiliates, decided to retaliate themselves, by eliminating the UPN Logo from their outlets like WWOR in New York, KCOP in Los Angeles, "Power 50" in Chicago and WRBW 65 in Orlando. Then last month, coming from FOX head Rupert Murdock, came a new Network with the tentative name of MY NETWORK TV. Now the new network is coming to as much as 100 TV stations and more are to come by fall. They are trying to upset the new CW Network into signing as many UPN affiliates that where left alone from the new CBS/Warner Brothers deal!
But what I believe is that in the fall 2006, MY NETWORK TV may be interested in having a Saturday Morning block and of course they have to make sure they are FCC KIDS compliant or E/I friendly! Then what would it be? Nick JR is no longer on CBS, so would that means that "Dora The Explorer" or "Blues Clues" would jump into the new network outlet? Stay tuned!
BREAKING NEWS: Disney gets 'Oswald The Lucky Rabbit' from NBC Universal!
What Walt Disney tough was impossible, was possible for Bob Iger!
(2-10-06) This is BREAKING NEWS! The Walt Disney Company is gaining back 'Oswald The Lucky Rabbit' from NBC Universal. A task that once, Walt Disney tough it would not achieve in his life, is now being done by Disney's Bob Iger.
The Walt Disney Company announced that they where getting the pre Mickey Mouse character that Walt did back in 1927 and since then, it has been questioned as who was the real owner of the cartoon. Keep in mind, that when Walt Disney created "Oswald", the character rights where surrendered to Universal Studios. Then, "Oswald" has been done by Walter Lantz (The creator of Woody Woodpecker) and other Universal Studios animators. It is not known at this point, if all the "Oswald The Lucky Rabbit" shorts that Universal Studios did with Walter Lantz are included in the deal. All I know is that the original Disney made shorts are being acquired and the rights to the character are going back to Disney.
Universal Studios and parent company NBC Universal agree to give back "Oswald" in return of having back ABC/ESPN's Sports anchor Al Michaels (Monday Night Football), which he wanted to leave the ABC Networks, in light that the NFL games will no longer run on ABC TV, but on Disney's owned ESPN. Other deals with NBC Universal includes coverage of the Olympic Games on ESPN (Possibly the Beijing 2008 games) and other sporting events.
So there you have it! Walt Disney must be jumping for joy in the other world, his first creative artwork is coming home!
Disney's remake of "Antarctica" into "Eight Below"
Back in the 80's, people fell in love with the story of survival of the Husky sled dogs!
Now Disney remakes it, hoping for survival!
(2-9-06) Did anyone pay attention to the new Disney Movie "Eight Below?" I tough it was a new sequel to "Snow Dogs" that Disney did a few years back with the Husky dogs. However, the promo that you saw on The Disney Channel, was a remake of a hard to remember or hard to forget movie from Japan, made around 1982 and 1983. The movie was known as "Nankyoku Monogatari" which was translated as "Antarctica" in the USA or simply called "The Story of the South Pole: Taro and Jiro."
Now in 2006, Disney is remaking the movie too! The new film "Eight Below" is similar to "Antarctica" and the fact that one of the original Screen Writers for "Antarctica" did collaborated on the new Disney movie that is scheduled for opening on February 17, 2006. The new movie features actor Paul Walker ("Running Scare" and "2 Fast 2 Furious") in the role of "Gerry Shepperd," who is in charge of an expedition into the "Antarctica," along with the pack of Husky sled dogs. So, basically is the same dog collar, but with some "Mickey Mouse" magic on it!
Here we go again! PBS in danger of funding cuts!
It's another round of political fireworks, from President Bush to Buster Baxter! How come?
(2-7-06) Here we go again! Political fires coming from the President himself! The target? The alien Bunny from "Arthur!" It appears that President Bush is aiming at more cuts to the Corporation for Public Broadcasting and PBS for the fiscal year 2006-2007. The budget cut would be somewhere around $157 million and would affect children programing like "Sesame Street" and other PBS KIDS shows.
Let's not forget that it was one year ago, this month, that PBS KIDS suffered a serious attack, when the animated/live TV series "Postcards From Buster" got reprimanded by the US Department of Education, in relation to an episode where the animated "Buster Baxter" of "Arthur" gets to visit some friends in Vermont, which they where considered as non family friendly! Well, you know the story so far!
Now, President Bush is aiming to "Big Bird" and "Kermit The Frog" (Not hybrid yet!). The new cuts would also affect plans for PBS affiliates transitioning to Digital media from Analog. The cuts would end the current funding known as "Ready To Learn" and "No Child Left Behind" grants. Some members of the Congress believes that President Bush is not interested in the actual format at PBS, which is considered as "Liberal". Even Democratic Congressman Ed Markey of Massachusetts, claims that "Oscar The Grouch has been friendlier to the Sesame Street Characters than President Bush, who has chosen to make huge cuts to children's television programing. The Public Broadcasting System represents the last stronghold of quality child oriented programming. We owe this to America's children." Unquote.
In his recent State of the Union address, President Bush asked Congress to cut or eliminate 141 programs and most of the programs are educational funded. (I guess President Bush was referring to the funding of The CPB itself.) The cut of funds are a way to compensate for the current deficit that goes over $423 Billion Dollars, as a result of the current Iraqi war on terror and Hurricane relief efforts. Then again, will see how the funding will be compensated for poor "Big Bird" and "Buster Baxter!"
Am I right? Is Pokemon been censored?
Quite possible that some episodes will not be seen in the USA. That explains one thing! CENSORSHIP!
(2-2-06) This is FRESH from whatever Network is left after the merge! Of course I'm talking about KIDS WB! The Pokemon cartoon series may be suffering something that is always common to see or not to see in America. Despite that the Japanese animated property has been broadcast worldwide, there has been some episodes that quite where missed or perhaps, CENSORED, due to content not relevant to American audiences. Is this familiar?
Remember the "Postcards From Buster" on PBS KIDS and the "SUGARTIME" episode that caused some complaints and it was CENSORED by PBS itself? Well, here is the proof! I was told about the upcoming episodes for "Pokemon Advance Battle" series that KIDS WB broadcast on weekends. The episode order was altered, from the original episode line up. Don't ask why! But I will give you a few reasons.
Based on the KIDS WB schedules for the month of February, there are several "Pokemon Advance Battle" episodes missing. Then, turns out that on the Spoiler Pokemon Page at Serebii.net , the order of the episodes are revealed and the missing episodes from the KIDS WB are listed as well. Those missing episodes are going to shown in Canada and The UK. But in The USA, they will not be shown! Let's review them!
KIDS WB scheduled episodes for Saturday February 4, 2006
A) 820 "Showdown at Linoone"
B) 821 "Who, What and Where Whynaut"
KIDS WB scheduled episodes for Saturday February 11, 2006
A) 825 "Berry Berry Interesting"
B) 826 "Less Is Morrison"
Did you noted something missing here?
A) 822 "Date Expectations" (Canada and The UK)
B) 823 "Mean With Envy" (Canada and The UK)
C) 824 "Pacifidlog Jam" (Canada and The UK)
The only reason that these 3 episodes are missing, is because they have a cameo appearance by a controversial Pokemon. The Jynx that was seen on "Holiday Hi-Jynx" back in 1999 and caused a controversy related to stereotypes, makes an appearance, while "May" is competing on a Pokemon Contest. Since the late 90's, the even older cartoons that portrays a stereotype or racist takeout where eliminated to accommodate new FCC rulings. That will explain why the decision by KIDS WB and 4KIDS of not showing these episodes in the USA. Still they are listed as been broadcast in both Canada and The UK. As always there is CENSORSHIP in America! Go figure!
(UPDATE: 3-31-06) KIDS WB is doing the missed Pokemon episodes! The airdates where slated for April 1st and April 7, 2006.
Disney buys PIXAR, then cancels 'Toy Story' sequel!
Disney decided not to make sequel on their own, but will leave it to PIXAR to do the rest!
(1-27-06) Even the day when the new CW Network was announced (Read below), Disney convinced Steve Jobs to have a seat at the Disney's Board of Members, while Mickey Mouse will share the pie with Woody, Nemo and The Incredibles! Disney bought the PIXAR animation company, long after the Disney dispute with the animation makers of "Toy Story" and "Finding Nemo" last year. I guess that after the Michael Eisner's departure of the 'happiest place on earth', Steve Jobs wanted to make peace at the House of Mouse! The deal worth over 7 billion dollars, will give Disney the exclusive rights to all the PIXAR library.
At the same time, Disney decided to stop the production on their own of a PIXAR movie. Last year, Disney decided to go alone, in making a sequel to "Toy Story" (Remember when they shut down the animation division in favor of making computer animated movies like "Chicken Little"?). Now Disney will let PIXAR Animation to work on all their sequels. So what ever Disney was doing with the projected "Toy Story 3" is going to waste! Did they did that with an animated movie project called "A Few Good Ghost"? (The movie was never terminated, because Disney shut down the animation studio at DISNEY MGM Theme park in Orlando FL!) Now it is up to PIXAR and DISNEY to see what kind of mega projects will start making in the future! Hopefully this would end their long dispute and hopefully, will led Disney in the right direction of going to the traditional hand-drawing....If they care about it!
More of the new THE CW and CW-KIDS?
The newest TV kids in town is making too many headlines! How would you call the kids block?
(1-27-06) Is a mess! The newest TV kid in town! Is The CW Network! The soon to be gone THE WB and UPN Networks is making all the TV outlets to cry wolf! Then one question remains: Is it KIDS WB going to be called CW-KIDS? How about KIDS CW?
Gosh! That is hard to explain to "Pinky & The Brain!" Or how about letting know "Pikachu" that his new home is where WWE's Smackdown is playing? Would that make it a fight between "Team Rocket" and Carly Colon (Caribbean Cool guy)? "That ain't cool!" Or yet worse! Explain that to "Coconut Fred". He was chosen to be the "America's Next Top Model!" Will have to wait to figure out what will it be for KIDS WB! Or is it CW KIDS?
One broadcaster that is not really happy about the new TV kid in town, is FOX owners News Corporation. The media giant, still owns a dozen of UPN affiliates in key markets like New York/New Jersey, Los Angeles, Chicago and Orlando FL! They are not so happy about it that they started to drop the UPN logo from all their TV outlets! So don't be surprise if WPWR 50 in Chicago or WRBW 65 in Orlando FL, displays something different on their UPN logos! They did that with KCOP 13 in Los Angeles and WWOR 9 in Secaucus, New Jersey and New York City No UPN for these guys! What a mess!
The WB and UPN will merge! THE CW next fall!
The new home for "Pikachu" and "Coconut Fred" has been revealed! CBS will partner to Warner Brothers!
(1-24-06) Still coming! Merges and more merges! Just hot the presses! The WB Television Network and UPN will merge as one TV network, under the new CBS Corporation, who partnered to Warner Brothers and Tribune Entertainment in the creation of the new network: THE CW! Well, here is the new house for KIDS WB (Should I say KIDS CW?) along with the current animated shows, like "Pokemon" (That if and after 4KIDS gave up "Pokemon", would that show return in 2006-07?), "Coconut Fred's Fruit Salad Island", "Loonatics", "The Batman" and other cartoons at the network.
Confused? I'm more "Psy-Duck" than a "Pokemon" itself!
So here is what I know so far! CBS Corporation, who divorced VIACOM, still has ownership of UPN. While Warner Brothers and Tribune Entertainment (Who owns WGN Superstation) have ownership of the former FROG Network. What this means is that until September 2006, both UPN and THE WB will continue broadcasting as they are doing right now. However, the ones that would not be so happy about it, are the broadcasters of both networks.
Because most of the UPN and The WB affiliates are owned by other media giants, quite possible a majority of the affiliates will become independent stations, once the new network takes place. What? More paid advertisements for Appliance stores? More paid advertisements for the "Magic Bullet" mixer? Re-runs of "The A-Team" or "The Facts of Life"? Where I'm going to see "7th Heaven"....Wait! That show was canceled, so no need to worry!
But of course, in light of the situation, I shall tell everyone to start making plans for the Summer 2006, where more details will be revealed about the new THE CW Network, home of "Pikachu" (If "Pokemon" decides to comeback, after 4KIDS giving up the rights!), "Coconut Fred" and "Loonatics." Stay tuned!
CBS cuts on NICK JR in favor of DIC KIDS!
Next fall, instead of "Dora The Explorer" or "The Backyardigans", it will be "Sabrina The Teenage Witch!"
(1-20-06) Not a joke! Is CBS really going DIC? Let me explain! CBS Corporation is cutting back the NICK JR children programming in favor of the DIC KIDS block that is running on WB, UPN and FOX affiliates currently! The deal for NICK JR is ending this year, so instead of extending the deal, CBS decided to make the similar thing that FOX did with 4KIDS Entertainment a few years back in what is now the successful 4KIDS TV!
CBS and DIC will enter a partnership for a new Saturday Morning Kids Block, during the fall 2006. The block is described as a way to fulfill the required 3 hours of FCC mandated kids educational informative format, often known as E/I. The block would bring back the current DIC KIDS shows that are syndicated on WB/FOX/UPN affiliates, like "Liberty Kids," "Sabrina The Teenage Witch," "Archies Weird Mysteries," "The Littles," "Madeline," "Inspector Gadget" and other titles. Now the question remains, where are "The Backyardigans" going? Of course, you can see them on NICKELODEON, but there are millions of others that cannot afford the CABLE TV or SATELLITE!
Filmation's "She-Ra" and "Zorro" on DVD?
New deal has been made with holders of Filmation's animated library, for US and Canadian release
(1-17-06) It has come to our attention that the long sought FILMATION animated library of 80's hits "She-ra: Princess Of Power" and "Zorro", among with other titles, would be making their comebacks on DVD later this year. This, as the result of a deal from the now holders of the Filmation's animated library, UK's based Entertainment's Rights and BCI / Navarre Corporation, who already has the rights for several animated titles, like FUNimation's "Dragon Ball Z" series. Just last year, BCI did acquired the DVD rights to Filmation's "He-Man and The Masters Of The Universe". The new deal, would allow BCI to release in the USA and Canada, about 230 hours of Filmation's animated series, like "She-Ra", "Bravestarr" and the animated version of the TV classic "Ghostbusters" (Not related to the movie with Bill Murray!) with Larry Storch and "Tracey The Gorilla". Now, I wonder if the deal would bring back the "Archie's TV Funnies" or "Fat Albert" or the old "Batman & Robin" with their "Bat-Mite!" Will let you know!
Bon voyage! WB gets rid of 7TH HEAVEN!
Family theme drama, being canceled after 10 years in the air, due to over cost!
(1-17-06) Fans of the WB's family theme series "7th Heaven" are sad to see their TV show gone for good! It was announced, during the Holidays that the WB drama that started with the network, some 10 year back (Remember the "7th Heaven" and "Dawson's Creek" years?), is been canceled, due to a high increase in cost. Since the series has lost much of their fans, during the years, most likely, due to their cast growing up, the series is not making a big investment and the cost of producing it, would be a financial burden to the former FROG network! Tough fans of the series has been aware of the decision and most of them started petitioning campaigns.....Like Save Animaniacs...to save the TV series, however, The WB is not going ahead with a new season in 2006. The WB still likely, would spin off the series, similar to what they did with "Buffy The Vampire Slayer" and "Angel" some years back. But as you can see, even the best TV series, suffers the cutting effects of the big corporate!
Here comes "Teddy Ruxpin" on DVD!
Launch of new toy version will coincide with the release!
(1-12-06) He's back! The lovable 80's talking bear, "Teddy Ruxpin" is making a comeback! Recently, was announced a new toy version of the 80's children TV series, made by DIC Entertainment along with Worlds of Wonders toys, who first conceived the character in 1985. However, in the late 90's the "Teddy Ruxpin" series and other DIC titles where acquired by Disney, then, bought back by other companies, making it one of the hardest to see on TV. However, a company called First National Pictures (Not related to Warner Brothers) took the rights back from DLT Entertainment LTD ("Three's Company" and "The Benny Hill Show") and is now providing the DVD rights to the animated series.
At the same time, a new version of the toy made in 1985 is currently in production and sales of "Teddy Ruxpin" would start in the spring of 2006. The new toy line will be made by BACKPACK TOYS and will use Digital Media, like the ones used by game giant NINTENDO. In the 80's "Teddy Ruxpin" played cassette tapes, but this version will use a Game Cartridge or Digital Media Card (Like Digital Cameras) format, instead of the analog tape!
Hopefully, will see the animated and toy series making a comeback, which would be the 3rd time that the toy is re-launched, but then it flops. I guess the "Teddy Ruxpin" toys are not reliable, in terms of performance, but is because of old technology. You want a talking "Teddy" and still not yet moving the mouth? Will let you know!
Flashback to 1974: "The Big Blue Marble?"
Approved by "Elmo" of "Sesame Street"!
(1-9-06) Flashback to 1974! For those of you reading, I recommend that you do a little research here! There has been a lot of questions about a TV show made back in 1974 that was broadcast on PBS or syndicated to independent TV outlets and it was from the brain of a "Sesame Street" writer, Lynn Rogoff and the creator of the "Star Trek Deep Space 9" TV series, Robert Wiemer.
That TV show was known as "The Big Blue Marble". Similar to what in today's TV standards, would be the controversial "Postcards From Buster." The show was about kids in different parts of the world, sharing their experiences. That TV show had as the main host, TV actress Tisha Campbell of TV's "My Wife And Kids" (Along with Damon Wyans, often known as the "Wayne-Head" cartoon that KIDS WB use to do in 1996!). Back in 1974, Campbell was about 7 to 9 years old when started the hosting of the series.
So, have you ever wondered where that series has been shown or is the possibility of DVD's been released?
Well, I have not heard about that possibility, but a little insights could help that show to be revived! Specially since I found out that there is a web site that has the rights to the series and has been offered for future broadcast. Would that help to make it into the DVD format? Will see! If you still recall the intro to "Big Blue Marble", check this site too!
Oh, I forgot! Kevin Clash, the voice of "Elmo" of "Sesame Street", did appeared in one episode of that show too!
FYI: "The Big Blue Marble" was produced by ITT Corporation (International Telephone & Telegraph) tough they went by the name of "Blue Marble Company" when producing the series. However, during the ending credits, you could see the ITT logo been shown on the screen with a message telling that it was financially supported by the corporation itself. In case you wonder, ITT Industries split and is now part of The Hartford Insurance Company and some assets where sold to MCI Worldcom, now part of VERIZON. Also a share of the Sheraton Resorts are owned by Starwoods Resorts, which where part of ITT too. The "Big Blue Marble" TV series is considered as Public Domain and still been broadcast worldwide.
HAPPY 2006! Is a BIG BIG WORLD out there!
A remake of "Bear in The Big Blue House" is what's out there!
(1-4-06) Is the start of 2006 and PBS KIDS is starting it with a BANG! The new TV series "Big Big World", which resembles to "Bear in The Big Blue House" from The Disney Channel and the main star is a Sloth (Related to "Bear?") named "Snook."
Turns out, that it is created by the same guy that gave us "Bear in The Big Blue House!" Mitchell Kriegman still uses the "Shadow-mation" technique that was introduced in the Disney's "Bear" series. Have you ever noted how interactive, "Snook" look like? He talks to you and even puts his paw for you to touch! Well, you touch the TV anyway!
While the new TV series has nothing to do with the "Bear In The Big Blue House" series, it gives some insights about discovering the world of science and nature, through the interactive characters like "Snook" the Sloth and some companions like: "Bob" The Anteater, "Madge" The Turtle, "Smooch and Winslow" The Marmoset, "Ick" The Braggart Fish and other characters. Check your PBS local listings for the times. You will enjoy it!
News Archived 2005:
The company that brought Pikachu and pals into the hands of millions of kids worldwide, is no longer interested!
In what appears to be the last update for 2005, "Pikachu" and pals are receiving some kind of gift from Saint Nick!
A DIVORCE settlement between NINTENDO/POKEMON USA and 4KIDS ENTERTAINMENT!
WHAT? Or as "Max" yells: "NO WAY!!!"
In a twist of events, 4KIDS Entertainment, who handles the licensing of the Pokemon franchise outside of Asia (NINTENDO of Japan is the main license holder and producer of Pokemon related stuff, while 4KIDS Entertainment is the license holder outside of ASIA), has agree not to continue the licensing for 2006 and beyond. What that means is, that all licensing of Pokemon related stuff will be handled by POKEMON USA (A NINTENDO related company). The report still says that current broadcast of TV series "Pokemon Advance Battle" will continue on KIDS WB. However the report does not mention if the TV series will be ended, when "Advance Battle" ends. Meaning that KIDS WB will end the "Pokemon" series sometime in 2006. The TV series still currently in production in Japan, so as of right now, chances are the TV series would end in the USA sooner than expected. (I don't say it is canceled, because the TV series is still been produced, but in the USA, a move like that would leave Pokemon fans in a SHOCK!)
The report did not even mentioned if there will be a change in the TV series dubbing aspects. Keep in mind that for the US TV series, the voices are supplied mostly by the voice talents of Veronica Taylor ("Ash"/"May"), Eric Stewart ("Brock"/"James"), Rachael Lillis ("Misty"/"Jesse"), Amy Birnbaum ("Max"/"Torchiq"), Madeleine Blaustein ("Meowth"/"Torkoal") and of course from Japan, Ikue Ootani as "Pikachu". But, could that mean that other voices would take over? How about Nancy Cartwright of "The Simpsons" and the voice of "Mindy" in "Animaniacs," doing "Ash" or another "Pokemon" voice?
BART SIMPSON: "Me? A Pikachu? NO WAY!!!!"
Of course, nothing has been said this far! I don't want to see the "Pokemon" characters and TV series to leave that early! But is about the money! More information will be posted sometime, next year! Of course is next week, when 2006 begins! In the meantime you can see the frightening report here!
Here is your opportunity to remember the children's classic for the Holidays!
How many of you remember the classic "BOZO The Clown" TV show that WGN TV was making for over 40 years?
Remember this phrase? "Who's your favorite clown? That's me!" Yes, Bozo, the famous cartoon clown conceived by Larry Harmon and the host to the TV show made by the late Bob Bell and Frazier Thomas with the cast of thousands (Like in the old intro!), is making a comeback! According to the WGN TV Web Site, the TV Holiday Special "Bozo, Gar and Ray: WGN TV Classics", will premiere on Christmas Eve, Saturday December 24 at 7:00 PM Central Time (8:00 PM Eastern) and repeated on Christmas Day, Sunday December 25 at 2:00 PM CT (3:00 PM Eastern). The show will be broadcast on WGN TV Superstation, so it will be seen by millions, who wanted to remember a little of the Chicago's very own clown!
The TV special will also remember other kids TV shows like "Garfield Goose and Friends" and "Ray Rayner and his Friends". It will also remember those favorite Holiday cartoons like "Suzy Snowflakes", "Hardrock, Coco and Joe" and the classic UPA cartoon "Frosty The Snowman" (Not the Rankin/Bass version!). Plus other classic stories that will give some holiday cheer!
When New Year comes, KIDS WB will be short!
Instead of "Pokemon", here comes the late John Ritter's "8 Simple Rules", as KIDS WB will be shorter!
MEOWTH: "That's right! KIDS DABA-U-BEE is getting shoiter!"
WUBBAFET: "Waaabaaa!"
What? Have not told this? Ok, I'll tell it! Since late summer, the WB did some programing changes that would include, comedies in the afternoons and get rid of the "Pokemon" cartoons! So, it turns out that "8 Simple Rules" and "Reba" would take over, although "Friends" and Seinfield" could also join the new afternoon block, starting January 2, 2006. On January 7, 2006, KIDS WB will have an extra hour of their programs all pack up.
So instead of starting at the 8:00 AM hour, would start at 7:00 AM in the morning (Need to check listings). But no longer will be available as weekday block. Most of the "Pokemon" cartoons will land on Cartoon Network. Quite possible, the "Pokemon Advance" series will start on Cartoon Network in January. KIDS WB will still do the current "Pokemon Advance Battle" series.
By the way, as I update this, there is no new "Pokemon Advance Battle" episodes, until January 7. I was expecting a Holiday episode with a new Pokemon ("Snow runt") that "Ash" catches and also helps little "Max" in a special mission. But that would hold until later January 2006. Sure, I'm predicting new "Pokemon" episodes and still has not yet premiered in the USA! They show it in Japan already! LOL!!! (That was Serebii's fault! The Pokemon Spoiler Page!)
The big, big mess that 'Howie-Turn' is leaving behind!
How "Dora The Explorer" and "The Backyardigans" would be affected by the big split from VIACOM, thanks to shock radio's departure to satellite!
As you read this update, there are some big shake ups, going on in the Radio and Television Industry! Give the thanks to "The Morning Malaise!" Or would it be the "Morning Shake Up?" As you may be aware, radio host Howard Stern is leaving the radio industry. For those familiar with Animaniacs, the episode "The Morning Malaise" was inspired by the antics of radio personality Howard Stern, which was known in the Animaniacs version as "Howie-Turn." Since the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) would not like the radio personality to use his big, big mouth to yell offensive words, one solution came! "Howie-Turn" decided to fly out of the radio and land in the Satellite service. But, not before leaving a big, big mess behind the corporation known as VIACOM!
What this means for "Dora The Explorer", "The Backyardigans" and all the Nickelodeon characters? Actually the big deal is that VIACOM will become a split or divided corporation. Here is what I mean. Instead of one corporation like VIACOM, it will be 2 corporations, one is VIACOM with PARAMOUNT PICTURES and all the Cable Networks under the MTV umbrella! Nickelodeon is owned by MTV, but MTV is owned by VIACOM!
The other corporation will be CBS Networks and CBS Radio, which will basically, is broadcaster INFINITY RADIO. The now former home of "Howie-Turn", will be merged with CBS Networks and basically, CBS Radio will be made of all the radio stations that INFINITY owns, including the "JACK-FM" formats.
BACKGROUND AUDIO: "This is, JACK-FM! Playing what we want!"
(Well, here in Orlando, there is no JACK-FM radio, but 3 radio stations are owned by INFINITY.....Should I say CBS RADIO? WOMX 105.1/WOCL 105.9/WJHM 101.9)
In case you wonder, the CBS Radio is the new home to former Van Halen rocker David Lee Roth!
(In Orlando there is no David Lee Roth! The station 105.9 is replacing it with former Clear Channel's XM Satellite talker Drew Garabo!)
SLAPPY:
"For crying out loud! Give me a satellite radio to hear Martha
Stewart! Now that's comedy!"TY meets their friends, "The Backyardigans"
Beanie Babies maker found something in his back yard to explore!
Remember the Beanie Babies craze, back in the 90's? Just when you thought that Beanie Babies creator Ty Warner was running out of ideas to make their profitable toy line out of harms way (Thanks to Build A Bear Workshop?), well you are right! Since last year, TY started promoting some sort of characters line, besides their original Beanie Babies collectibles, It started with the "Garfield" Movie Characters line up.
The character was so successful that Ty went to explore other partnerships in the market. During the summer of 2005, the "Sponge Bob Square Pants" Beanie Babies where launched and that line up went so successful, that more "Sponge Bob Square Pants" Beanie Babies characters where introduced. So out of the shelves, where "Sponge Bob," "Patrick," "Squidwards" and other characters.
But, that is not enough! It seems like Ty Warner has become a fan of the Nickelodeon's "The Backyardigans" TV series....
BACKGROUND MUSIC: "Your back yard friends, The Backyardigans! We got the whole wide world, in our yard to explore, now is TY for us..."
TY for us? I tough is "Time for us"
BACKGROUND MUSIC: "...Time for us, to have a snack..."
SLAPPY: "For crying out loud! Stop the repeated singing part!"
So there you have it! A new way to explore "The Backyardigans," on TY's Beanie Babies. What's next? "Dora The Explorer"? Interesting!
Don't Feed Disney To The Lions!
Why is Disney trying to milk some faith based books and make it "The Lion King"? Ask Aslan! Sorry Simba!
Comes December the 9th, you may have enough information and would tell Disney to stop feeding the lions! What I'm talking about? Simple! Remember those "Lord Of The Ring" movies? Several years back, Disney was approached with the idea of making it to a motion picture. What did Michael Eisner told them?:
"Don't Feed Disney To The Lions!"
In other words, that won't work financially! Of course, the big mistake that Eisner did, was proven several years later. "The Lord Of The Ring" was the most financially made project and the movie was a wealthy payback!
Of course, we are also contemplating the big success of the "Harry Potter" movies! Disney would love to get the magician into their vaults. However, Warner Brother came with the financial hat and the big success of the books by author J.K. Rowling. Now the movie, is paying big time! Since the release of "Potter," some 2 weeks back, the movie has grossed more than $400 million dollars at the Box Office worldwide!
Once again, Disney yells: "Don't Feed Disney To The Lions!"
Well, now I come to the "Lions" part, and since this is not about "The Lion King"(Sorry to "Simba" or "Kimba!"), but perhaps, you may have encountered the promotions for the upcoming "The Chronicles of Narnia: The Lion, The Witch and The Wardrobe". Is a series of faith based books by author C.S. Lewis, that tells about a mysterious world, where the king is a lion named "Aslan" (What is "Simba" thinking?) and believe it or not, this lion has some religious consent here! The characters may have been representing the Bible book. Since Lewis was a religious follower, mostly his books where directed to faith believers worldwide. Also, for your information, few years back, Disney was isolated by religious groups, over their policy involving Theme Park visitors like same sex couples.
After Disney decided to take on production of "Narnia," the faith based groups, where A-OK with Eisner and the gang! So now, that the movie is making their big screen debut, during the holidays, will find out if there will be another yelling of "Don't Feed Disney To The Lions!" Sorry "Simba" and "Kinba!"
Remembering Stan "Papa Bear" Berenstain
The creator of the children's classic left a legacy that still lives on.
Save Animaniacs Campaign remembers the life and work of one of children most beloved and celebrated books today. The Berenstain Bears, the classic book that still can be seen on the popular cartoon show on PBS KIDS, was the creation of Stan and his wife Jan and believe it or not, a little help from Dr. Seuss himself.
The Berenstain Bears is known as the simple family that would teach kids about life lessons and honesty. The bear family, has never been given names. You only recognized them as "Papa Bear," "Mother Bear," "Brother Bear" and "Sister Bear." Berenstain was 82. Our toughs and prayers goes to his family. We will remember the honesty that this author gave to millions of kids and that work will continue for generations to come!
Teen Titans.....NO GO?
The Cartoon Network show may have seen the last of his days, unless a petition can help revive it!
The careers of singing pop duo from Japan, "Puffy Amy Yumi," should be credited to their rendition of the "Teen Titans" song!
BACKGROUND MUSIC: "When there's trouble, you know who to call....Teen Titans! From their towers, they can see it all...Teen Titans! When there's evil on the attack, you can rest, knowing they got you back! Cuz when the world, needs heroes on patrol....Teen Titans GO!
HOLD THE MUSIC!!!!!! Cartoon Network has axed the cartoon! Don't ask why! According to a report, Cartoon Network's production team, has reported that there may not be a 6th season of the popular animated series and it appears that the series may have been axed! Sounds familiar? This was the Animaniacs fate some years back!
The Web Site Teen Titans Tower has started a petition online in efforts to made Cartoon Network to reconsider their decision of ending the series. They even have a letter that you can print and send snail mail to Cartoon Network's headquarters. So, if you love the "Teen Titans", this is your chance to demonstrate that you can revive the show. Hey! We still waiting to hear if Animaniacs can be revived too!
SLAPPY:
"For crying out loud! We need to revive ourselves! Leave
the Japanese girls on the Macy's Parade! Now, that's comedy!"Macy's Thanksgiving Parade review!
Here is the Thanksgiving Day review of the annual parade! Plus an update on the balloon accident.
Those of you who saw the 79th Annual Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade, will give a review of the event held today (11-24-05) and an update of the Balloon accident that happened on the Parade.
The 79th Annual Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade, came to a good start, despite that there was the possibility of higher winds in the NYC area. There was a mentioning of holding the balloons, due to the concerns created by a 1997 accident where a Macy's Balloon was the cause of a lamppost falling into the crowd, sending some to the hospital. However, the parade organizers came to the conclusion that the weather events where not a concern, in order to fly the balloons. Still there was some accident, created by an "M&M Red & Yellow" theme balloon that came crashing down, after one of the supporting cables, tangled on a lamppost, similar to the 1997 event, where a "Cat In The Hat" Balloon send several to local hospitals.
What was the most attractive balloon? I'll say "Scooby Doo", unless "Dora The Explorer" was more attractive! In fact new Balloons from "Scooby Doo", "Mr. Healthy Potato Head", "Dora The Explorer" and "JoJo's Circus" where walking on Broadway Street, along with the returning "Garfield", "SpongeBob SquarePants", "Pikachu", "Chicken Little" and a ripped version of "Barney's Strike The Band" balloon! SHAME NBC!!!!
The new floats from "Cartoon Network's Hi Hi Puffy Amy Yumi," "New York Daily New's Big Apple" (Dedicated to the New Orleans people, instead of the new Freedom Tower?), "Pillsbury's Loving Oven", "Disney's Showboat" and "Animal Planet's" Jeff Corwin and a rendition of the "Dr. Doolitle's If I Can Talk To The Animals", where preceded by marching bands and returning favorites. Of course, the most awaited of all! SANTA CLAUS! Came on board of his sled and word is, that next week, will be linking Save Animaniacs Campaign to the NORAD SANTA Web Site, so you can track the jolly guy from the North Pole!
PBS KIDS series will continue with the help of private funding, instead of the Department of Education.
The controversial PBS KIDS TV series "Postcards From Buster", will still be able to show more episodes, thanks in part to private funding. The cartoon bunny from TV series "Arthur" was the center of media attention early in 2005, because the series, using funding from the US Department of Education, produced an episode called "Sugartime-Vermont", where "Buster" is met by 2 mothers. The reaction that the Secretary of Education, Margaret Spellings caused, led PBS to ban the episode and so far, only a few PBS affiliates has shown the episode (Not seen in Orlando!), but until recently, the banned PBS episode made it onto the Video stores, as part of the "Postcards From Buster" DVD series.
Now comes word, that the cartoon will only be sponsored by private funding, since the US Department of Education will no longer pay the bills for the series. Given the fact that PBS KIDS, recently announced an initiative that will place the public broadcaster as targeting the toddler or pre-schoolers audiences, while the PBS GO series may be moving to a different platform, similar to the PBS SPROUT, chances are that your local PBS affiliate will only carry "Sesame Street" and "Dragon Tales". What about "Arthur" and his nemesis "Buster"? Time will only tell!
But, according to Broadcasting and Cable Magazine, here are the private funders of "Postcards From Buster"; The Arthur Vining Davis Foundations, The Gill Foundation, The Annenberg Foundation, The Small Change Foundation, The Community Technology Foundation of California, The California Endowment, The Gordon and Llura Gund Foundation, The David Bohnett Foundation and PBS (Your contributions of course! Thank You!). Now, the big question here is, will PBS let their affiliates to broadcast the "Sugartime-Vermont" episode? Will let you know!
Dora The Explorer, Hi Hi Puffy Amy Yumi and a rendition of The Freedom Tower on parade!
What could be an exiting Thanksgiving Day Holiday, less than 2 weeks away and big retailer Macy's is already giving the details of the traditional parade to be broadcast worldwide on NBC and Spanish broadcaster Telemundo. The details may be released later before the parade, but this is as far as I know. The parade will have the following Balloons on Broadway: Dora The Explorer, Scooby Doo, Jojo Circus, Healthy Mr Potato Head and Humpty Dumpty.
As for the Floats, the latest addition will have: "Cartoon Network's Hi Hi Puffy Amy Yumi," "Animal Planet," "Pillsbury's Dough Boy," "Warner Brother's The Polar Express Movie Float" and a rendition of the soon to be built Freedom Tower (The replacement of the World Trade Center), courtesy of the New York Daily News.
The musical guest are still to be mentioned later, but stay tuned!
"Swiper", don't swipe it in front of the big guy! Oh man!
If the Presidential Elections where today, the big winners would be 'Dora The Explorer', 'Sponge Bob Square Pants' and former US President Bill Clinton. Thanks to an iniciative from Nickelodeon, the former President will have some time to teach the kids to have some healthy habits and with the help of both, 'Dora' and 'Sponge Bob'. The Network will broadcast some Public Service Advertisements that will feature the animated characters and will animate the kids to get out of the couch and start eating healthy and exercising the right way. Also, Clinton will head a forum to be broadcasted on Nickelodeon on November 13, 2005. But what I don't want to hear is another complaint from "Swiper The Fox" or "Patrick The Star" about why Clinton, did not choose them to participate! Oh man!
The world's happiest place is making a big debut at the Holiday parade
With only one month to go, Macy Stores and Disney has revealed that for the upcoming Thanksgiving Day Parade on November 24, 2005, Disney will bring the characters from the theme parks along with singer LeAnn Rimes in a magical celebration to conmemorate the 50th anniversary of Disneyland. Disney already revealed the "JoJo Circus" giant ballon and quite possibly will bring for the 2nd year the "Chicken Little" giant ballon to promote the movie that starts on November 4, 2005. More parade information will be available. Did I heard the 'Dough Boy' of Pillsbury is also on the Parade? LOL!!!
Unicef gets away with bombs! The Smurfs will retaliate!
The war on terror has new victims! The Smurfs! The blue characters where destroyed by UNICEF!
HOLD ON TO YOUR HATS!!!! Papa Smurf is so irate! He is declaring war to those who dare to destroy the good guys! Simply put it this way; WAR!!!
Yes, you read! WAR has come to the world of THE SMURF! Sorry to say this, but The Smurfs where bombarded on an UNICEF ad campaign. Luckily, The Smurfs are OK! Nobody died in the commercial.
Since it is just pretending, The Smurfs are seen that they where destroyed in an animated ad for UNICEF's WAR FUND for the injured and orphaned children of the Republic of Burundi. So to say, this was an act of TERROR! Papa Smurf could not agree with the outcome, Smurfette was so embarrassed to be lying down with broken arms (Fake?) or Brainy Smurf's hand outpouring the rubble. Yet it was embarrassing to place Baby Smurf in an embarrassing scene and crying out loud, for the world to understand that the War on Terror is for real!
Or else, what would be the outcome of The Smurfs, if there was a real war? Go figure!
Studio film that made "Chicken Run" severely destroyed!
The main building of the animation house Aardman Films, outside of London's city of Bristol (West England, U.K.), was severely destroyed, during a fire early this morning (October 10, 2005). No injuries where reported, but the sad part was, that all the props and sets used on all the Aardman's movie features where destroyed. Ironically, the Aardman/DreamWorks featured film, "Wallace And Groomit: The Curse of The Were-Rabbit", was the number #1 box office release, beating the Jody Foster's "Flight Plan" movie! Arthur Sheriff, spokesman of Aardman Animation, told CNN: "Today was supposed to be a day of celebration with the news that 'Wallace and Groomit' had gone in at #1 at the U.S. Box Office, but instead our whole history has been wiped out. It's turned out to be a terrible day." Unquote.
So sad, to hear this! I wonder if there will be another "Chicken Run" movie or perhaps, a commercial for Petroleum maker Chevron, which the ads with the talking vehicles where made by Aardman!
PBS KIDS Digital Channel disappears? SPROUT ONLY ON COMCAST!
The majority of Cable subscribers are upset on this move by The Corporation for Public Broadcasting!
Where is ORD? Where is CLIFFORD? Where is BIG BIRD? Ok! I will explain! But, chances are that recently your Cable TV provider told, that after September 30, 2005 (Just a few days ago!), PBS KIDS DIGITAL CHANNEL that was available as a 24/7 PBS KIDS provider, has ceased operations. Thanks in part, to a deal that The Corporation for Public Broadcasting made with Cable TV provider COMCAST Cable and also the makers of "Bob The Builder" and "Barney". I'm talking about HIT ENTERTAINMENT!
The deal was to create the new PBS SPROUT channel. Is a 24/7 pre-school oriented network. What it will carry? Mostly, the PBS KIDS shows like "Sesame Street", "Dragon Tales", "Sagwa, the Chinese Siamese Cat", "Teletubbies", "Boobah", "Angelina Ballerina", "Barney and Friends" and so on! But the only difference here, is that millions of Cable TV and Satellite subscribers are unable to get the channel. Why? Because the contract gives the rights to COMCAST CABLE. So if you are not served by COMCAST, then FORGET ABOUT IT!!! Yes, I'm talking about BRIGHT HOUSE NETWORKS!
So, I mention this, tough your Cable TV provider and your local PBS station has already told that the PBS KIDS programs are always available, through your local PBS station. But, here is the other half of the matter! How many hours, does your local PBS station provides with the PBS KIDS programs? Since every market is different, I will give you a lowdown of what I mean.
For example, here in Central Florida (Orlando), the only channel that will provide the PBS KIDS line-up, will be WMFE 24. How many hours? At least 12 hours a day are devoted to PBS KIDS. The remaining 6 or 7 hours of Prime time, will be devoted to the regulars like "Nova" or "Antique Road Show" to name a few. However, in other markets, not always will you get the whole 12 hours of PBS KIDS. Most of the markets may do between 3 to 6 hours of the PBS KIDS shows every day. How about weekends? Most of the PBS stations may or may not provide the PBS KIDS programs, since most of them may offer the "Craft" types of shows like "The Joy Of Painting" with the late Bob Ross, or most likely, the cooking type of shows like the late Julia Childs TV series. Still, you won't find "Dragon Tales" or "Arthur" running around on Saturdays. Sundays, perhaps, but not always.
Of course, the big losers are the viewers who send their money to their PBS outlets, with the promise that they will be offered with quality TV shows, specially for the kids. But who's to blame? The main Corporation for Public Broadcasting, for not letting all the Cable TV outlets to take part in the new PBS SPROUT. As ORD of "Dragon Tales" says:
ORD: "OH NO! How Am I going to see all of my friends?"
So, your only alternatives are "Nickelodeon" and "Cartoon Network!"
Would you give up PBS KIDS for the Katrina Rebuild?
The cost of Hurricane Katrina could translate in less or no PBS programing!
Buster: "How Come?"
Sooner or later, you may end up with one of 2 choices:
A) Pay taxes to fund the Katrina rebuild efforts in the Gulf Coast.
B) Dissolve both The Corporation for Public Broadcasting and PBS, with savings of $300 billion dollars!
Start scratching your heads! The US Congress is considering some tax cuts to pay the rebuilding efforts in the Gulf Coast. Since Hurricane Katrina hit, with a little help of sister Rita (Is not the cat from Animaniacs!), the cost to rebuild the Gulf region has triplicate! So, The Congress is re-thinking the way you and I will pay the high cost of rebuilding. Is either that we pay more taxes or loose some of the things that we have. Would you loose "Clifford The Big Red Dog" or "Sesame Street", or how about "Antique Road Show," "Nova" and "Ask This Old House", in order to pay the rebuilding?
Now comes the worst of it! Since the Congress is more inclined to cut spending rather than asking for more taxes, here is what they propose:
A) Cut the funding to Medicare and Medicaid, that means, less benefits when you need to see a doctor or buy prescriptions.
B) Eliminate the idea of the return to the moon, that was promoted 2 weeks ago!
C) Cut and eliminate Federal Transportation initiatives. That means that AMTRAK would run less and Public Transportation funding would be affected, means less bus services....What? LYNX going to SUNDAY service every day? Half the service eliminated? Buy me a BIKE!
D) End the full support to the Corporation for Public Broadcasting! Some suggest to eliminate the CPB. Also there is talks of ending the "READY TO LEARN/NO CHILD LEFT BEHIND" funds. The same funds that "Postcards from Buster" almost killed this year!
ARTHUR: "Noooooooooooooooo!!!!!!"
Now, I see the "BIG FUNKY CLOUD" from "Dragon Tales" making a comeback! In case you wonder, that was an episode called "The Big Funky Cloud", where "Ord" the Blue Dragon, was washed by a dark cloud on his head...
ORD: "Oh no! I see that funky cloud making a comeback! It makes me sad.... (Starts crying, the cloud rains on him!)...Buuuuuuuuuuu juuuuuuuuu!"
SLAPPY: "For crying out loud! We still have a Florricane Season left, so we don't need more!"
In Memory of Don Adams of "Inspector Gadget"
Yes, the same guy that gave us "Get Smart" is no longer with us.
Many of you may have found out that former 60's TV actor Don Adams of the classic TV series "Get Smart" and also the voice of "Inspector Gadget" on the DIC animated series, has passed away at age 82. He use to be the satiric version of "James Bond 007" with the nickname "Super Agent 86" or "Maxwell Smart". Mostly known for yelling "Would You Believe?" And "Sorry About that Chief!" Adams was also best known for voicing cartoon characters "Tennessee Tuxedo" of "The Underdog Show" and the 80's animated hero "Inspector Gadget". His real name was Donald James Yarmy. Our toughs and prayers for his relatives and may God bless his soul. He will be sadly missed.
Chicken Little in 3-D! Give back the 2-D!
What is Disney thinking and re-thinking?
The long delayed Disney film "Chicken Little," is now the big talk in Hollywood! Last year, after Disney announced the elimination of the 2-D animated studios (Hand drawing should I say!), Disney gave way for the production of several animated features using CGI or computer drawing. Tough the big issue is the fact that Disney may still need some support to keep the project afloat. Then, is time for George Lucas and the "Star Wars" team to intervene!
It was, that Disney decided to breath life to the new animated feature and ask George Lucas, to help make the movie a 3-D feature, similar to the ones that Disney has done for the "Muppets 3-D" attraction at Disney's MGM Studios Theme Park in Orlando. In fact, Disney is asking dozens of movie theaters to upgrade their current projectors to digital. But, that would mean that patrons wanting to see a movie, may have to spend extra money. Especially, if the movie comes from the Mouse House!
Or perhaps, that would indicate that Disney is ready to explore a new way to enjoy a movie. If that could help bring back the animated or should I say 2-D or hand drawing movies back. Here is an article from The New York Times (It may require a free subscription online!).
Sesame Street gives Cookie Monster to Build A Bear
What could be a monster success for the Maxine Clark's bear store?
Look out bear market! The pet project from Maxine Clark, since the Payless Shoes Stores came to be, also known as BUILD A BEAR WORKSHOP, is now introducing "Cookie Monster" of "Sesame Street" fame, as part of the agreement between the toy retailer and SESAME WORKSHOPS. Recently, this past year, "Sesame Street's" "Elmo" was introduced as part of the "Furry Friends Collectibears" that BUILD A BEAR WORSHOP offers. The new "Cookie Monster" will be available during the second week in October.
Here goes the LOONATICS!
New version of Looney Tunes invades KIDS WB! Are they carbon copy? "Go Diego Go" must say bye-bye, to "Dora"!
Did anyone saw on KIDS WB the new animated series "Loonatics Unleashed"? Sorry, but I tough that was a carbon copy of "Duck Dodgers" of Cartoon Network. In fact KIDS WB seems like they are trying to copy the NICKELODEON formula for success! Proof was placed on 2 animated series at the no longer FROG network! The first one was "Coconut Fred: Salad Island". Unfortunately, because I overslept, I missed the pilot episode, but reviews tells that "Sponge Bob Square Pants" is filing class action lawsuit for carbon copy! Sort of! But, 2 bananas that looks like the Nick character? A pineapple island (Not under the sea!) and a "Patrick" or "Squidward" kind of accent, sounds to me like carbon copy! The other cartoon was "Johnny Test", which I tough was a carbon copy of Hanna Barbera's "Johnny Quest". Instead, sounded like "Fairy Odd-Parents" meets "Dexter's Lab" of Cartoon Network to me!
Then, there was fierce competition, at NICK on CBS with "Go Diego, Go!"
Forget "Dora The Explorer"! This is going downhill! Here we have Dora's cousin Diego and his TALKING BABY JAGUAR! You read! The little jaguar can talk like Dora's monkey known as "Boots". But, what you say about the "Bobo Brothers"? "Oh Man!" Actually, instead of "Swiper" is 2 monkeys playing around (None of them, are "Boot's" relatives!). Once "Diego" yells "FREEZE BOBOS", the monkeys response is "Opps! Sorry!" Also, if you know that "Dora The Explorer" carries her "Backpack" and "Map" , then "Diego" carries "CLICK" a digital camera that sings! "SAY CLICK! Take a pic!" Plus Diego and sister "Alicia" carries a "RESCUE PACK" (The Backpack that raps!) that can become anything Diego wants! I believe that "Dora The Explorer" is history and cousin "Diego" and "Alicia" will take care of business!
SWIPER: "Oh man!"
Yes, Michael Eisner! The white LION KING is making a comeback!
Oh! The Shame! Back in the early 90's there was word that Disney was developing a movie based on the artworks of the 1950's Japanese manga and anime series "Jungle Taitei" (Jungle Emperor), also known in the 1960's as "Kimba The White Lion". When the movie was released in 1993, a surprise shocker came, to hear that Disney was denying any relation with the anime classic and from Eisner, himself came word, that he did never saw "Kimba The White Lion". Those comments draw some outrage from Japan fans of the anime created by Dr. Osamu Tezuka. The only one that knew about the relation with "Kimba" and "Simba" was Roy Disney himself.
Now, back to our present, tough Disney, still has not apologize...and will never do...about the comments on "The Lion King" and "Kimba The White Lion", well, fans of the white cub would be glad to hear that there is a new remastered collection of the original series.
For those who never saw "Kimba The White Lion" (Since you saw "The Lion King", tough you may know!), the series was first originated in Japan around 1950 as a manga or comic serial. TV was under development at that time, so an anime based on the manga did not appeared until 1965. In 1966, NBC did provided their affiliates with the English dubbed version of the anime. The English cast did have the late Billy Lou Watts as "Kimba". During the "Lion King" controversy, Watts, was ask about it and he replied; "There is no doubt in my mind that 'The Lion King' is a copy of 'Kimba'", unquote from the KIMBA WHITE LION WEB SITE.
Back to the new release, it is confirm that during the Holidays (Around Thanksgiving Day), a new DVD remastered collection will be released from Right Stuff Entertainment. The collection will have all the 52 original episodes that where broadcast on NBC back in the late 60's. The DVD's are remastered and will include never before seen footage or deleted content. Also as a bonus, the pilot or 1st episode, that NBC did heavily edited, causing the series to be in the not so right order (Did "Voltron" and "Battle Of The Planets/G-Force" where severely edited and there is not a pilot of both?). The suggested price for the entire collection is US $129.00. Highly recommended, for the fans of "The Lion King" and true fans of "Kimba".
It took almost 2 weeks, to get the Cable and Internet back on!
I thought that moving to another apartment in the same property was not going to be a problem, but, when it comes to Internet and Cable TV, that ad from BRIGHT HOUSE NETWORKS, that claims that it is EASY to move the service, is as worse as not having the service at all!
If you read the BLOG page, there was an entry that reads "Until Next Week...". The story goes that when I requested to have the Cable TV and Internet service installed on the new apartment, they gave me the Labor Day Weekend for the installation of the service. OK, with me, of course. However there was a fine print with it.
First, I was to be present at the new apartment, however, I was not ready for the move out. Since the move out was on Monday (September 5), they came on Sunday (September 4). I was not present at the apartment, so another appointment was to be set up, but, the date they have available was September 14th. They where leaving me without Cable TV and Internet for the next 11 days, from the last day of moving.
However, it seems ironic, but Bright House Networks did send the Cable TV crew to disconnect the service from the older apartment, on September the 6th. However they where not supposed to come to my new apartment in the same property, as well. I guess they serve on 1st come, 1st serve basis! So basically, I was without Cable TV and without Internet for almost 2 weeks. GO FIGURE! Now, let's go to the "SITUATION ROOM" with Wolf Blitzer! LOL!!!
"Voltron" being disputed?
Could it be possible that WORLD EVENTS gave up the rights on the 80's anime?
Where is "Voltron: Defender Of The Universe"? Recently, I declared that there was a movie in the works, based on the 1984 classic animated series about 5 lion-robots. But turns out that the Anime series rights are currently being disputed. What? The TOEI TV series where acquired by WORLD EVENTS PRODUCTIONS, but it was not 1 TV series. It was 4 TV series they acquired. This is why, the confusion some of you noted. There's a VOLTRON made with Lions. But who ever told that there was a VOLTRON made with space crafts? The VOLTRON team, was 5 guys or 15 guys or 3 guys? Confused? LOL!!!!
Based on information, it seems like the Anime that in Japan is known as "GO-LION" and their successors are quite in dispute. For your information, WORLD EVENTS PRODUCTION does have the rights to the "GO-LION" Anime (VOLTRON: The Lion Force). But how about the successor known as VOLTRON: Vehicle Force? Is that Anime being disputed by ADV FILMS? The same company that brought us, the ANIME NETWORK'S "AZUMANGA DAHIO: THE ANIMATION" series? ADV FILMS says "NO WAY!"
Add to the mix, 4KIDS PRODUCTIONS of "POKEMON" and "ONE PIECE" fame! They love "Pikachu"! But are not interested in housing some house-broken lions! But some information came from TV SHOWS ON DVD, which has been trying to figure out who is behind the VOLTRON TV series. In the meantime, let's see if the big movie they promised a while ago, becomes reality....
BACKGROUND SOUND: "From days, of long ago. From uncharted regions of the universe, comes a legend..."
SLAPPY: "That's me! Slappy, defender of the Animaniacs world!"
YAKKO: "Can we defend the Tiger King"?
BACKGROUND SONG: "The surprises in life......"
SLAPPY: "I tough Mickey Mouse killed the Lion King! Now that's comedy!"
June Foray meets "Granny" and Larry!
"The Situation Room" needs Looney Tunes too!
What are you thinking, Wolf Blitzer? Meet "Granny" of "Looney Tunes" in person! June Foray, the classic voice in the animated world, will be guest on CNN's "Larry King Live" on September 22, 2005. Foray will be giving an interview about her life as the "Granny" that generations has seen and love. The famous companion to "Tweety Bird" and "Sylvester" will talk about her upcoming projects. Foray is currently voicing "Granny" on the Cartoon Network's "Baby Looney Tunes". She also is best know as "Rocky" of the classic cartoon "Rocky and Bullwinkle". So don't miss out!
GRANNY: "Ohhh! Larry King will interview me! I should bring Sylvester to meet him!"
SYLVESTER: "Hold it! Who said that I will meet the BIG BAD WOLF?"
WOLF BLITZER: "Breaking news on THE SITUATION ROOM! Sylvester the cat, has declared that I'm the BIG BAD WOLF! You are watching CNN, the Florricane Network!"
(This, with all due respect to victims of Hurricane Katrina.)
Double the Pokemon!
KIDS WB to provide double Pokemon Advance Battle in September
Kids WB will give Pokemon fans a double doses of Pikachu and Team Rocket! Sorry Ash! The latest installment of "Pokemon Advance Battle" will provide at least 2 episode or 1 hour block during the month of September, while the season opener was originally planned for September 17th, some episodes where accommodated to make the 1 hour block. So they will start on September 3, 2005 with the return of the loving Pikachu and a surprise turn of the twist!
ASH: "HUH!?!?!?!?!?"
"Postcards From Buster" goes DVD!
Controversial episode banned from PBS KIDS, will be available on DVD!
Fresh, from the........ Where's THE FROG???
Actually, this comes from Paramount (VIACOM) Entertainment! They are releasing the controversial PBS KIDS TV series, "Postcards From Buster". The series, was under fire by the US Secretary of Education, Margaret Spellings, who claimed that the "Arthur" spin off series, was to introduce two families with 2 same sex couples, or 2 mothers. The episode known as "SUGARTIME-VERMONT" is the story of "Buster" Bunny" traveling to Vermont and visiting a sugar farm, while meeting Karen and partner Gillian's little kids. One of the kids refers to Gillian as her stepmother, but the Secretary of Education thinks that this topic is not accepted by all American families.
Keep in mind, that because of the nature of this topic, I am restraining of using the L word, myself.
In the meantime, the TV series will have a release date for October 4, 2005. This according to TV SHOWS ON DVD.
Movie remakes part deux? Voltron Defender of the Big Screen!
New Line Cinema will make movie out of 80's big animated hit!
"From days, of long ago. From uncharted regions of the universe, comes a MOVIE?"
New Line Cinema has indicated, they acquired the rights from Word Events Productions to remake the 1980's TV series "Voltron: Defender Of The Universe" into a big budget film. No word yet, when the shooting will begin and who will be the lead actors and actress in the movie. Well assuming, that Jessica Simpson will be available, after the remake of "The Dukes Of Hazzard", who knows! By the way, this is the second time that I heard about a TV series being remade into a movie. Few weeks back, I wrote about a remake of "The Transformers," from DreamWorks SKG, under the guidance of Steven Spielberg. More details will be available.
The Frog is DEAD!
The WB will no longer need "Michigan J"
Fresh from THE FROG? I don't think so! Warner Brothers beloved frog from "Looney Tunes," will no longer take stake of THE WB Television Network. The network, is revamping the logo and will not have "Michigan J." The 1955 Chuck Jones critter, was adopted for the new network, comprised of several independent outlets, like New York City's WPIX, Orlando's WKCF, Los Angeles KTLA and SuperStation WGN (Only in Chicago), to name a few. Since 1995, most of THE WB promo's where sang by the frog and from time to time, there was a sponsor, who could be taken by "Michigan's" musical taste. I mean, The Frog singing an ad for beer?
But most likely, the big problem with the "Dubba Dubba" network, was the main target! Most of the people watching The WB where teenagers, who grew up with the "Dawson's Creek" and "Buffy: The Vampire Slayer" tv series. Of course, the main attraction at The WB would be KIDS WB. The now home to mega hits "Yu-Gi-Oh" and "Pokemon Advance", use to be home to "Animaniacs" and "Pinky & The Brain" in 1995, after being taken from FOX KIDS TV (Today is 4KIDS TV).
However, in Prime Time, the target was mostly the underage group (14+). Most of the TV series, where mostly teen oriented. Just to mention that in the past few years, The WB has been improving with the sudden line up that includes off network's re-runs of comedy series like "Seinfield" and "That 70's Show". However, in Prime Time, the big attraction was "Smallville" and "Reba". Now THE WB wants to target a more mature audience (25+) and they believe that without "Michigan J", things could improve at the NO LONGER THE FROG Network!
Sadly however, KIDS WB will be loosing the weekday schedule, after January 2006. KIDS WB will still have "Michigan J. Frog" to promote the kids oriented block. But it will only be available on weekends. During the week, THE WB will introduce reruns of "8 Simple Rules" with the late John Ritters (Best known as the voice of "Clifford The Big Red Dog" on PBS KIDS.) and re-runs of "Reba". So, you will not see THE FROG and you will not hear "Hello My Baby, Hello My Baby". It still FRESH FROM THE ________ (Fill in the blank!)
Making a movie too! Thanks to Nickelodeon!
"La, la, lara, la, la....." Why not sing it?
SLAPPY: "If
you
dare to sing it, I will drive you NUTS!"Ahem! "The Smurfs" are making a comeback too! Just when you tough, "The Transformers" and "The Dukes of Hazzard" would have 15 minutes of fame (Thanks to Ben "Cooter" Jones!), now comes the world's most loved or hated thing! It is not "The Care Bears!"
I just found out that Nickelodeon's parent company Paramount Pictures (Viacom) will be making a movie based on the Pierre "Peyo" Culliford's blue characters! The movie would have a release date of 2008. According to Paramount, this would be the 1st of a movie trilogy (Same as "Star Wars?"). This movie would be done as a Computer (CGI) or 3D animated feature, just like Dreamworks did with both "Shrek" and "Madagascar". Same thing is doing Disney, with the upcoming "Chicken Little" movie.
But, let's stop here because, some may be right or wrong about the history of "The Smurfs." So, Here is a little history of "The Smurfs" 101!
Basically, "The Smurfs" came to life, after "Peyo", a Bulgarian native, came with a children book that narrated the story of some magicians from the King's court, looking for a mysterious path. Now, here come "Gargamel!"
Actually, it was not "Gargamel" who Peyo was referring to! It was "Johan" and his buddy "Pirlouit" ("Pee-Wit"), who where described in the book, when they first met "Papa Smurf" and their strange blue creatures. That book was made about 50 years ago. After the book was first published, Peyo decided to publish several periodicals, or comic books for the Belgian newspaper. Eventually the tale of "The Smurfs" was being published across Europe. But in the USA, nobody was aware of the phenomenon. Until Hanna-Barbera Studios, was approached with the idea from an NBC executive, to create a cartoon based on "The Smurfs" comic books and a movie that was premiered in Europe; "The Smurf and The Magic Flute".
The "Gargamel" character was not made by Peyo, but it was an idea from the Hanna-Barbera Studios and "Peyo" agreed on that. Other characters not made by Peyo, where "Grandpa Smurf" and the "Smurfy Kids" with their "Smurf Puppy". Those where mostly ideas introduced for the toy makers to made some money, based on the "Smurfs" success. Sadly, after NBC stop the production of "The Smurfs" in 1990, Peyo died in his home country of Belgium. However, "The Smurfs" still finding success today, after 50 years in the making.
Did you know, that the NBC executive bought an "Smurf" doll for his daughter? That was the main reason, why NBC was so "Smurfy" in those days (1980?). By the way, if my memory is, as clear as the cell phone with more bars (CINGULAR!), in 1983, there was a rumor that was started by a religious group or a TV station, when "The Smurfs" ("Los Pitufos" in spanish!), started broadcasting on TELEMUNDO in my native Puerto Rico. Some people claimed seen the blue characters running around and making some evil tricks. I really did not known what was the main reason, but it led to believe that "The Smurfs" where an act of evil! In other words, as evil as "So Darn Insane" (Former Iraqi dictator Saddam Hussein), or "Howie Turn" (Radio Shocker, Howard Stern) of "Animaniacs".
But if you want to know about "The Smurfs" I would suggest that you visit the WIKIPEDIA page, for "The Smurfs".
"Go Diego", to replace "Dora The Explorer!"
New show will still have "Dora", but with less participation!
"Dora The Explorer", your time to shine is gone! Give it out to your cousin "Diego" and his "Baby Jaguar!"
Oh Man! As "Swiper The Fox" always yell, his participation, along with "Dora The Explorer" can say good-bye and good riddance! Nickelodeon is unveiling plans for the new TV series "Go Diego, Go!" Slated to start on September 6, 2005 (With "On Demand" plays in August!). According to the Viacom press release, "Diego" and "Baby Jaguar" will star in their own TV show and will explore the jungles of South America and will teach the children to better care of the earth and the living nature. We will see "Swiper The Fox"? I still not sure! But based on the description, there will be some surprises! I guess "Dora The Explorer" will swipe an episode or 2. More to come!
"With regrets, of course" claims Roy Disney
The Save Disney Web Site is shutting down as of August 7, 2005. This according to Roy Disney, who sends an e-mail to the thousands of Disney fans who where claiming a change at the Magic Kingdom, led by Michael Eisner, back in 2004. Recently, Disney re-hired both Roy Disney and his partner Stanley Gold, as a mutual agreement was reached by both parties, to end their disputes regarding Disney's legal matters.
Back in 2004, Michael Eisner decided to step down from The Walt Disney Company and started a process to find a replacement. The replacement came in the form of Robert Iger, a close friend of Eisner. Both Roy Disney and Stanley Gold where questioning the possibility that the selection was unfair and they wanted to bring the matter to the court rooms. Disney still claimed they did selected Iger, accordingly and they found that the legal lawsuit brought by Disney and Gold, was not in the best interest of the company.
The Walt Disney Company decided to re-hired Disney and Gold, under an agreement, where the legal lawsuits will be put to rest and any campaign that involved the use of Walt Disney Company as the "bad guys", would be ended. "Accordingly, on August 7th, we will permanently close down this web site... With regrets, of course..." claimed Roy Disney, on the Save Disney Web Site, adding; "There is so much that cannot be addressed here, but there are plenty of encouraging signs towards the future vision of The Walt Disney Company, visions that we share and have shared through these difficult times." Unquote.
Transformer fans, REJOICE!
Steven Spielberg will help "Optimus Prime" on the Big Screen!
What? Steven Spielberg is going to help Optimus Prime?
BACKGROUND MUSIC: "Transformers, more than meets the eye! Autobots wage their battle to destroy the evil forces of the Decepticons..."
What a flashback! Thanks to DreamWorks and Steven Spielberg (The "Animaniacs" creator!), "Optimus Prime" and his enemy, (??) "Megatron" and the cast of the 1980's "The Transformers" will be transformed to the BIG SCREEN! Are they kidding? If you tough that the "SHREK" makers, where having problems and they could not perform in the stock markets that well, guess again!
Now comes word that DreamWorks Animation will partner with HASBRO the toy maker behind "The Transformers" and producer Steven Spielberg to develop the movie with a target release date of July 4th, 2007. If I can recall and my brother confirmed to me, that there was a "Transformers" movie way back in the 1980's. He even had a copy of the movie, but I guess I never had the chance to see it. But, here is a nice picture from that movie. In case you ask, will the new movie will have a possible killing of "Optimus Prime"? Cannot answer, wait till 07!
KIDS WB adds "Foster's Home" to weekend line up
I Choose "Pikachu" over "Bloo"!
BLOO: "Who is Pikachu? Another Mickey Mouse's imaginary friend?"
Recently, Cartoon Network was letting "Bloo" and "Mac" of the animated series "Foster's Home For Imaginary Friends", to land on KIDS WB for a summer trial, tought it lasted some 3 weeks. By the way, is that loony bird "Coco" a Pokemon?
COCO: "Coco? Coco co co co?"
BLOO: "I think she is mad with Pikachu!"
PIKACHU: "PIKA????"
Disney's cell phone?
"RING RING Mouseketeers! It's me, Mickey!"
What a surprise! It was announced that US Cell Phone carrier SPRINT PCS will join forces with Disney to create a family friendly PCS provider under the name of DISNEY MOBILE. The service will be made available in 2006. So next year, Mickey and Donald will ring your cell phone with style!
A surprise is coming soon! (UPDATE)
Wait till the 4th of July is done! (UPDATE)
I won't give too much details right now! Just come back after the 4th of July weekend! In case you wonder, it is COLLEGE FOOTBALL SEASON! Enough said!
UPDATE: The surprise, is still in the works! Actually is related to the annual ORLANDO CITRUS PARADE and will have a new Web Site! Stay tuned!
Another Disney legend is gone.
Who could forget the old Disney record's narrator?
Do you remember those Disney records and books that you use to read along? The narrator indicated at the beginning:
"I am the Disneyland's narrator and will begin to read "Cinderella". You will read along with me, remember to turn the page, when "Tinker bell" rings the little bells like this.... (Ring Sound!)"
Sadly, another Disney voice cast passed away this past week. Grammy nominated and recording artist Robie Lester, who was also known as the singing voice for Eva Gabor on Disney's "The Rescuers" and the voice of "Jessica"/"Ms Claus" on the Holiday animated movie from Rankin/Bass "Santa Claus Is Coming To Town", died in California after battling with Cancer. This according to Animation World News (AWN) web site. This is the 3rd Disney voice cast to pass away, along with the voices of Tigger (Paul Winchell) and Piglet (John Fiedler) this past week. Our toughs and prayers to their families.
"Sesame Street's" Muppet to host LIVE 8?
"Big Bird" would love to host! But, it is not!
Who would ever tough that the mega concert known as LIVE 8 would have a "Sesame Street" Muppet as one of many hosts for the July 2 concert? Well, it turns out that the LIVE 8 organizers (Bob Geldof and U2's Bono!) has allowed "Sesame Workshop" to send in from Africa, their Muppet to represent the children who suffer from the HIV/AIDS syndrome. "Kami" the HIV positive Muppet from "Sesame Street" Africa, will join the hosts of LIVE 8 in Philadelphia. Among the hosts of the event, will be actress Salma Hayek (Disney's "Spy Kids"), comedian Chris Tucker, Jennifer Connelly, Natalie Portman and others. The July 2 concert is one of 10 mega concerts to promote the fight against poverty in African nations, ahead of the G-8 Summit in Scotland on July 6, 2005. The event will be broadcast live, via the use of AMERICA ONLINE (AOL) software, plus US Networks MTV, VH1 and ABC TV will broadcast segments of the event through the day. Other countries should check local listings for the broadcast hours.
Disney losses voice actors from "Winnie The Pooh"
Voices for "Tigger" and "Piglet" passed away during the weekend. : (
The voices for Disney's popular property, "Winnie The Pooh" passed away this past weekend, according to Local 6 (WKMG TV) in Orlando. Paul Winchell, who provided the voice of "Tigger" and John Fiedler, who provided the voice of "Piglet" died of natural causes at the ages of 82 (Winchell) and 80 (Fiedler). Paul Winchell also provided the voice to Hanna Barbera's classic cartoons "Dick Dastardley" for the cartoon series "Dastardley and Mutley" and as "Gargamel" of "The Smurf". John Fiedler was an actor with stage support to legendary John Wayne and Bob Newhart. Our toughs and prayers for their families.
"The Backyardigan's" soundtrack with latino music.
Nickelodeon is swiping "Dora" once again!
What are "The Backyardigans"? If you ask me, I will give you this BACKGROUND SONG:
"We got a whole wide world, in our yard to explore...."
Is that song becoming a nuisance?
"The Backyardigans" is the brain child of Janice Burgess and features 5 creatures singing and searching for adventures (Except for the singing part, I would tough of "Barney!"). The series debuted last year on both Nick Jr (Nickelodeon) and "NICK ON CBS" on weekends. Now Nickelodeon (Viacom) is making this series as much merchandise as possible. So they are planning a musical soundtrack with music from the TV series, including latin sounds. Most of the music featured in "The Backyardigans" are comprised of Country, Classical, Big Band and Rock. So now, they are adding some Latin music to the mix.
Yes, make sure that Nickelodeon is really forgetting "Dora The Explorer!" LOL!!!
Disney's "JoJo Circus" to Macy's Thanksgiving Parade
Disney character will float across parade
Recently, the Macy's Thanksgiving parade organizers revealed that "Scooby Doo" will be their official mascot for the parade. Now, Disney has told the organizers, they will debut the "JoJo Circus" helium balloon on Thanksgiving Day. This according to The Disney Channel and Toonzone. Details here.
Toy Story 3 must go on, without PIXAR, claims DISNEY
Just when you tough that PIXAR would become friend with Mouse House....
What would it be if, DISNEY and PIXAR decides to bring this masterpiece together, instead of competing to each other? Just when you need it, Walt Disney is announcing they will go ahead without PIXAR in the making of "TOY STORY 3". Don't ask me why, but, the movie will be released in 2008. Still waiting for the "Chicken Little" movie? You bet, but Disney claims that they will continue talks with PIXAR, however, if the negotiations fail, DISNEY will go ahead alone with the movie making!
For those of you asking, why Disney and Pixar decided to call it quits? Last year, Disney wanted to deal more money with PIXAR, however, PIXAR claimed that Disney was stealing money that should belong to the makers of "Toy Story" and "The Incredibles". Besides, did you know Disney takes 61% percent of the profits, from every PIXAR movie? PIXAR wants Disney to take half of the distribution profits, but Disney does not pay for the distribution of the movies. Instead, is PIXAR who pays for it. No wonder why Disney lost the Weisman Brothers of MIRAMAX FILMS! So, here goes Eisner or Iger, trying to convince Steve Jobs and their colleagues at PIXAR!
There's no need to fear!
If you ever tough that Disney would not like the idea of remaking "UNDERDOG".....Think again! We have seen the famous dog doing good against evil, since 1964. "Underdog" has been enjoyed by kids and grown ups around the world. From merchandise, to campaigns and even VISA CHECK CARD's ad, shows this lovable pooch making his way with the famous quote: "There's no need to fear! Underdog is here!"
Now, the good guys at Disney are re-thinking the idea of making a live action/animated movie, starring the super hero himself! This according to a VARIETY MAGAZINE report. But this movie, according to the report, is different to what you and I use to see on TV. Do not expect either "The Go-Go Goophers" or "Klondike Cat" making cameos here! This movie will use mostly live dogs combined with computer animation (Sort of like "Cats and Dogs" with Tobey Maguire?). The movie may start shooting between November 2005 but, no later than January 2006 and the filming will be done in Canada. So to speak, this movie may make it into theaters at least in 2007 or 2008. Let's wait!
(Background VISA CHECK CARD commercial!)
UNDERDOG: "There's no need to fear, Underdog is....."
VISA woman: "Nevermind!"
The Simpsons will get their movie
Nancy Cartwright was so proud of the project!
After a long wait, it looks like "The Simpsons" will be on the big screen! FOX has confirmed the fact that the cast of the animated series has been overlooking at the script. Specially for "Bart" herself, Nancy Cartwright (Used to be "Mindy" in "Animaniacs"), has been overjoyed by the draft script. This will also lay down the long time rumor that the animated series would have to end, in order to make the movie. But that won't happen! According to Mat Groening, the series creator, the movie will not affect the current production of the FOX TV series.Mexican dubbers must use low paying cast for "Simpsons" and "Yu-Gi-Oh"!
Spanish actors from
Mexico still
striking the decision from the dubbing company
You probably found this article
in the ARCHIVED news or the BLOG page, but I'm going to re-update this
feature, about the Mexican voice cast of "The Simpsons" and "Yu-Gi-Oh".
Starting next
month, the new voices of the cartoons "Los Simpsons" and "Yu-Gi-Oh"
will be heard on most latin networks. The fact that the union
actors in Mexico where on strike, after the dubber for Disney Classics
and the current series, decided to stop paying higher salary to the
cast and offer hourly wages to anyone that can make the voice of the
cartoons.
Humberto Velez
has been providing the voice to "Homero" for the last 15 year, the same
way is done by Dan Castellaneta. Same as for Marina Huerta who
has been making the spanish voices on "Rugrats". So there are
like hundreds of voice talents in Mexico, but most of them are being
replaced by unknown persons that will accept a humble pay of less than
$2.50 per hour, just for lending their voices to "Spongebob
Squarepants" or "Seto Kaiba" of "Yu-Gi-Oh".
So you ask, how
much is Nancy Cartwright being pay for voicing "Bart"?
$500,000 (Half a million dollars!) so to say! By the way, in
Mexico, the Union that groups the voice cast, went to court asking a
judge to consider that the Union has been replaced by untalented
people, in breach of a contract they have since the early 1950's.
The Mexican court did not wanted to see the case, because any
corporation that changes hands, has the right to do a new agreement, or
simply cancel the current one. That's what happened with the
dubbers in Mexico. They changed hands and breached the contract
with the union and Mexican authorities tells "That's OK!" Go
Figure!
In the
meantime, FOX will not comment on the voice drama in Mexico and will
allow the dubbing of "Los Simpsons" (The Simpsons) and "Reyes de
Colina" (King Of The Hill) with the new voice cast!
"Pink Panther" movie delayed?
Sony won't release
classic remake,
until 2006
This is what happens
when SONY buys MGM!
The remake of the
classic movie "Pink Panther" starring actor Steve Martin, that was
about to be released in August, has now been delayed until 2006.
Sony claims that the
studio needs more time to promote the "Pink Panther" movie, according
to a press release:
"With the recent acquisition of MGM, we
wanted to give our marketing department the time and opportunity to
launch this very important franchise..." Unquote
Some analyst are
telling that SONY was under pressure of a failure by releasing the
movie, against the movie remake of the classic TV series "The Dukes Of
Hazard" with Johnny Knoxville. Also a spin off of the cult
classic movie "Office Space" by "King of The Hill's" creator Mike
Judge, is on the view. So SONY decided to play it safe!
Now on a related note, if you like the "Pink Panther" cartoons and wondered, where is the pink one? Cartoon Network's Boomerang is returning the series to their line up on June 27 at 7:30 PM EDT. The series will include the original theatrical shorts, as well as TV produced series. I wonder if the classic "Pink Panther and Sons" that was seen on NBC TV in 1984 will be added?
Congress will stop funding PBS KIDS?
BUSTER:
"Oh no! I just
found aliens at
the Capitol!"
Aliens?
I think those are "PBS
KIDS
filibusters"
With
the news that the US Congress
will stop the
funding for the Corporation For Public Broadcasting (PBS), there has
been too many eyebrows been raised, with some concerns about what's
going on within the Government and Public TV.
Its
all related to the controversy
being caused
with the infamous "Buster Baxter" from the "Arthur" and
"Postcards From Buster" series!
As
you may recall, in early 2005,
the US Secretary
Of Education, Margaret Spellings, wrote to the CPB a very angry
letter, asking PBS to return money from the Federal Grant known as
"READY TO LEARN/NO CHILD LEFT BEHIND", after a review of the episode
from "Postcards From Buster" entitled "Sugartime-Vermont". This
episode was retired from the PBS KIDS line up, but it was offered to
any PBS affiliate to review and broadcast it on their own. The
reason? "Buster" meets several kids and their 2 moms. Now,
since this topic may be offensive to some, I will restrain of using the
L word!
I
found this matter to be so
annoying and quite
stupid, because if you saw the series, why there is an episode where
religion is observed? In case you wonder, "Buster" goes to Utah
and meets the "Mormon" family and they even pray at dinner. So is
that a separation of both Church and Government as expressed in the US
Constitution?
In
the meantime, the Congress will
start making
budget cuts to PBS and will stop funding "Sesame Street",
"Teletubbies", "Arthur", "Buster", "Dragon Tales", "Clifford" and more
to come!
Read
the article from MSNBC
Also check the SAVE
ANIMANIACS BLOG for details!
"Cookie Monster" cannot eat COOKIES?
Give thanks to the Health Department with those "SMALL STEPS" PSA's
ELMO: "Luis, you know what time is it now?"
LUIS: "What time is it?"
ELMO: "NAP TIME!!!!!" (Elmo lays head over Luis)
Remember this ad? It is part of the national campaign known as "SMALL STEPS" from the Department of Health and Human Services. Why I am bringing it now?
Did you saw the new episode of Sesame Street? I hope not! You where watching a shocker! Our beloved "Cookie Monster" being told not to eat "Sometimes Food", but to eat "Always Food". If confused, here's the idea:
SOMETIMES FOOD=JUNK FOOD
ALWAYS FOOD=HEALTHY FOOD
So what if you saw "Sesame Street" and found this weird looking owl teaching "Cookie Monster" to eat "Always Food"? CALM DOWN! Give thanks to the Secretary of Education! Also give thanks to the Health Department, for bringing that out during the "Small Step" campaign!
Sounds weird, but the producers of PBS KIDS "Sesame Street" are moderating "Cookie Monster's" bad habit of yelling "ME WANT COOKIES!"
"Veggie Tales" would love to have "Barney!"
HIT ENTERTAINMENT GETS UNSOLICITED OFFER FROM CLASSIC MEDIA
BARNEY: "I love you, you love me, where a classic family, with a great big hug and a Veggie Tale from me..."
BOB TOMATO: "Hold it big purple devil! That is not the way we hear that song!"
Classic Media, who owns the rights to the "Veggie Tales", "Rocky And Bullwinkle" and "Lassie" has made an unsolicited bid to HIT ENTERTAINMENT, the owners of "Barney" and "Bob The Builder". However HIT already has a merger offer from European group APAX PARTNERS (If you are familiar with "Virgin Radio" in The UK, the APAX PARTNERS owns shares of it.). Also other contenders include THE LIONS GATE GROUP, who owns the video release rights to Mattel's "Barbie" and SCHOOLASTIC's/PBS KIDS "Clifford The Big Red Dog". HIT ENTERTAINMENT is not yet considering any offers, but recently recommended to their shareholders to consider a bid from APAX for $917 million dollars. Now the question would be? Who wants "Barney"?
"Scooby Doo" meets the Braves!
Atlanta Braves to invite "Scooby Doo" for family fun
"Take me out to the ball game, take me out to see 'Scooby Doo'...."
Well, The Atlanta Braves is about to grant your wish "Scooby" fan! The Atlanta Braves will premiere the new "Aloha, Scooby Doo" film during the weekend of April 10th. This came from The Atlanta Braves press office.
"The Braves are thrilled to partner with Cartoon Network and Warner Home Video to have this premiere for our fans and to offer it on the world's largest high-definition screen," said Derek Schiller, senior vice president of sales/marketing for the Braves. "This event is a perfect example of how the Braves look to add value to the experience for fans at Turner Field for the coming season."
"Aloha, Scooby-Doo will be the very first film to be presented on this magnificent high-definition screen at Turner Field," said Dennis Adamovich, senior vice president of marketing for Cartoon Network. "One of our key marketing objectives is to utilize key character franchises such as Scooby-Doo to create one-of-a-kind Cartoon Network brand experiences for fans to enjoy away from their televisions. This post-game screening offers lots of laughs and thrills for the entire family, and builds anticipation for the all-new 'Tooner Field' we're developing on site with The Braves, to be unveiled this summer."
What is the "Tooner Field"? Kind of like Scooby Doo and Bugs Bunny's Major League Baseball franchise. In fact Tweety will sing:
TWEETY: "Take me out to the ball game, take me out to the park! Buy me some bird seeds and 'Cracker Jack'... I taw I taw a putty that, I see, I see a 'putty that' in that right field....."
SILVESTER: "Take me out to the bird cage, take me out to the bird..."
"Pokemon Chronicles" to DVD
Ever wonder what happened to those lost "Pokemon" episodes?
Ask "Pikachu", but if you ever wondered why certain episodes of the cartoon "Pokemon" and "Pokemon Advance Generation" seen on KIDS WB, has not been showed? Perhaps the only episodes they have not show was the one that caused epilepsy in Japanese children ("Porygon") and another episode that uses fire arms (I believe is the "Dratini" episode).
But how about episodes that started showing after the US DVD released "Mewtwo Returns"? These where episode not related to the series main plot. In other words, whereas an episode was about "Ash" and "Pikachu" with the "twerps" (Either "Brock" & "Misty", or "May" and "Max"), then on certain occasions, an episode was about "Team Rocket" or about "Ritchie and Moltres" (Not seen in the USA!). Those episodes where referred as "Pokemon Chronicles".
Currently there are 26 episodes and is believe that more are in production, however the chances to see this mini "Pokemon" features are mostly dim. Since 4KIDS Entertainment, holds the episodes for the Pokemon Series, they have not decided how and when to release those episodes. Neither KIDS WB has decided if they plan to show those during their weekend schedules or will simply go ahead with the regular episodes.
But, after looking at the "Pokemon Spoiler" page at Serebii, chances are that those episode will see the light on DVD after all. It is also confirmed that Cartoon Network UK, will broadcast those episodes during the month of May....
MAX: "Why May has a month? Can I have one?"
...I said May 2005! Where in the calendar says Max?
MAX: "No way!!!"
Colombians love The Pope in a cartoon?
Tribute to Pope John Paul II welcomed, by Colombians
Talk about a cartoon with the late Pope John Paul II. This is how a Colombian non Catholic is paying his respects to the late pontiff. Creating a comic strip where John Paul II is reborn and becomes a faith fighter against spiritual evil. Is like "Batman" meets Jesus (No offense, but that is how they are describing it!).
"The Incredible Pope Man" is the name given to the cartoon and comic strip that turns the late Pope in a super hero. "The pope was a real-life superhero, of flesh and blood," said Colombian artist Rodolfo Leon, a non-practicing Catholic who has been working on the comic book for about a year. Leon said he was saddened by the death of John Paul II, whom he admired. The artist worried some people might be offended by such a revered figure becoming a comic book hero, but said the reception so far has been good. So when the comic book will be available? Perhaps it is not yet known when will be available, but sources tells that the book may be sold in Colombia, Canada, Mexico, Poland (The birth place of The Pope) and quite possibly The United States. No offense, but at least they should show some respect for The Pope.
4KIDS gets rights to "The Wumblers"
If "Dora The Explorer" could meet "Raymundo" and "Bertrum"!
A few days ago, I found a new concept being adopted by 4KIDS ENTERTAINMENT, the holders of popular cartoons like "Pokemon", "Yu-gi-oh" and "Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles". Meet "The Wumblers", a collection of cartoons made out of "Watermelon". Yummy?
Actually the concept was introduced by Laura Wellington, who founded "The Silly Goose Company LLC" to represent the new project. 26 episodes (these are 52 episodes of 11 minutes each) are being produced in London by "Cosgrove Hall Films" (Remember the cartoon "Count Duckula" on the old Nickelodeon?), thru Peak Entertainment. The series is aimed at pre-school age and is about a kid named "Bertrum" and his pal "Raymundo" the Spanish snail.
Yes is true! "The Wumblers" are made of watermelon! This according to The Silly Goose Company LLC:
"The Wumblers are multi-colored, bulbous-shaped characters whose food falls from the sky, whose babies come from watermelon, and whose stories embody social values based upon the common thread of humanity. Such values include mutual respect, fairness, and acceptance."
Sounds sweet! When to expect this new animated show? It is not yet known when and where to see it, but I'll say, probably by fall. Since 4KIDS hold the license to the series, I may say that they would give it to the FOX's 4KIDS TV weekend block, or to Cartoon Network, since some of their series are being moved there. But this could change any time.
"Arthur" and PBS talks food allergies (Sorry Buster!)
What is wrong with some postcards anyway?
Despite the big controversy over "Buster Baxter", his best pal "Arthur" is showing some insights in food allergy. According to a press release from "The Cookie Jar" company (Formerly known as CINAR), the PBS KIDS series "Arthur" will address the issue of food allergies, when the episode "Binky Goes Peanuts" debuts on April the 8th. In the episode, "Binky" the sometimes bully kid of the series, has to give up on chinese food, and PB&J, after learning that peanuts can cause allergic reaction. (Too bad, I have allergies, but to shrimp!)
"Over the years, I've received many requests from kids and adults asking us to tackle the subject of peanut allergies in an ARTHUR episode," said ARTHUR creator and series executive creative producer Marc Brown. "Given that so many of our young fans and their parents deal with food allergies every day, we have a unique opportunity to make a real difference."
ARTHUR: "Buster, are you allergic to aliens?"
BUSTER: "Nope, but I'm allergic to the Secretary of Education!"
Ok, I admit that some comments are out of script! Hope Margaret Spellings is not reading this! Just check the local PBS listings for the episode broadcast.
"Go Diego," a new series centered on "Dora's" cousing that has been seen in later "Dora The Explorer" TV series is making the debut on Nick on Fall 2005. Along with his 11 year old sister "Alicia," "Diego" and friends will explore the world and by using reasoning skills (Same as "Dora"!), will try to stop "Swiper" and bad guys from damaging the environment. Also Nickelodeon is requesting several series and returning favorites, like "Spongebob Squarepants", "Jimmy Newtron", "Fairy Odd Parents" and others.
More "Buster Baxter"
issues!
Cartoon Bunny
grabs international attention from civil groups
"Arthur's"
best friend "Buster Baxter", the
asthmatic bunny that started his own TV series on PBS KIDS "Postcards
From Buster" has received numerous praises and complaints from civil
liberties groups and religious based organizations, after a
controversial episode "Sugartime-Vermont" was censored by PBS.
This after US Secretary of Education Margaret Spellings, sended a
letter to PBS President Pat Mitchell, requesting to refund money used
to produce the episode. Recently, the Web Site 'Family Pride'
made the episode available online with a campaign to write a protest
letter to Secretary Spellings. Also in case you have not see it,
there is a small clip from the episode and is available at the BLOG
PAGE. Another note, is that both "Arthur" and "Postcards From
Buster" are nominated for this year's "Daytime Emmys."
The Classic DR Seuss storybook "Horton Hears a Who," will be made a movie by Twentieth Century Fox in partnership with 'Blue Sky Studios'. The creators of the animated CGI movies "Robots" and "Ice Age" will start planning a 2007 or 2008 release of the movie. Twentieth Century Fox already made the DR Seuss classic, into an animated feature (2D) back in 1971 by the late Chuck Jones. Also FOX has confirmed they got another DR Seuss classic for a future developmet. The Whimsical "Horton Hatches an egg". Will they ever get "Green Hams and Eggs?" (Also known as "The Warners and The Beanstalk")
How about Pikachu and pals riding over 40 attractions? Sorry Disney! But here goes your competition! The Pokemon Park is about to inaugurate in a week or so. The Tokio base park will have Pikachu and the main Pokemon characters bringing fun and exitement to the public, but will the colorful Pokemon will be able to attract enough people from Tokio Disney? Will see that! I wish to see one Pokemon Theme Park running in Orlando! "MEOWTH! That's right!"
Also speaking of "Pokemon" there are some details being released for the upcoming movie in Japan with the return of the legendary "Mew" from the "Pokemon First Movie" A set of 4 Pokemon characters are being introduced to the movie. But the details are still pending. By the way, the movie will be released on July, 2005 in Japan. But for US and other countries, may have to wait till 2006 to see it.
Change
in FOXBOX?
Here's a
hint, the next time we tell you about "FOXBOX" on FOX TV, you may not
read "FOXBOX" at all. Instead, when I mention "FOXBOX", I will
simply mention "4KIDS TV" on FOX TV. Got it? Thanks Albert
Kahn!
The weekend block of FOXBOX has been
renamed to 4KIDS TV, this
according to TOONZONE
but, don't ask me why the sudden name change of block. Unless it
is related that the DIC KIDS TV block is getting more advantage over
FOX BOX! For those of you wondering what is FOX BOX and DIC KIDS,
FOX BOX is a partnership of FOX TV and 4KIDS Entertainment, the US
distributor of "Pokemon" and "Yu-Gi-Oh". The FOX BOX/4KIDS TV
block is currently broadcasting:
"The Cramp Twins"
"One Piece"
"Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles"
"Winx Club"
"Sonic X"
"Shaman King"
"F-Zero"
This is the current DIC KIDS block:
"The Littles"
"The Smurf" (Comming Soon)
"Liberty Kids (Former PBS KIDS series)
"Sabrina The Teenage Witch"
"The Berenstein Bears"*
"Sonic The Hedgehog Underground"**
"Sherlock Holmes in the 22nd Century"
* This was a DIC series made for CBS
Television Network, back in the
early 90's and is not related to the current PBS KIDS/Nelvana
Entertainment series.
**This is an older version of the "Sonic"
Series from Bohbot
Entertainment, circa 1994. It is not related to the 4KIDS anime
version.
For
more information, visit the
4KIDS TV Web Site
Turns out that "Homero" is changing the voice.....
HOMERO: "PEQUEñO DIABLILLO" (WHY YOU LITTLE!)
*Strangles "Bart" by the neck*
BART: "Lo siento Homero, mi voz no es la misma" (Sorry Homer, my voice's not the same)
If your TV has FOX with SAP or second audio (Mostly spanish), you may hear "The Simpsons" in the spanish language format. Turns out that the voice cast of "Los Simpson" has been fired, not by Donald Trump, but by the Mexican run "Estudio De Grabaciones Y Doblajes Internacionales" (The same people that translated those Disney classics like "Sleeping Beauty"/"Bella Durmiente" and of course "Animaniacs"!)
Why, you ask? Turns out that in the country of Mexico, there are laws that makes the actors and voice over actors to be treated like union members, something like the SCREEN ACTORS GUILD in the USA. However, if the company chooses to pay hourly wages to anyone that can, at least, sound like the original "Homer" or "Bart" and is not an UNION or GUILD actor, then the company would prefer to do that, just to save some pennies. That was the main reason, why the original voice over cast of "The Simpsons" in spanish, got replaced by ordinary people that would take any amount of money just to support their household.
Of course, the Mexican and Latin community are outraged by the decision of replacing the voice cast. I could figure out that the voices in spanish may be different.
As far I found out, CBS Television is not willing to continue broadcasting the latest reality TV series, "The Will". What this means is that less than 4 million viewers will be wondering, "Who won the big ranch anyway?" Give thanks that "American Idol" still on! Yes, CBS TV canceled the reality bomb!
Save Animaniacs was able to contribute with the American Red Cross and their effort to help the people in south Asia being affected by the earthquake. It took only $5.00, but at least it will help with the relief effort. If you donate, keep in mind that your contribution is TAX DEDUCTIBLE.
Have KIDS WB gone that far, by announcing that they will premiere a Pokemon Movie that has not been released in the USA? Sounds weird, but on January 22, 2005 KIDS WB will premiere "Pokemon: Destiny Deoxys" This is the 7th Pokemon Movie being released this far. Believe it or not, the movie has not been released on DVD or Video and it appears that Disney is trying to see how well this experiment works. Disney's Buena Vista Home Video is in charge of the movie release scheduled for February 2005. The movie is produced by Nintendo and 4Kids Entertainment and is made by Japan's TV Tokio. The information came from SEREBII.NET.
Seems like the Japanese guys could not tolerate the copycats in America! OK, I'm not talking about Food Network, re-inventing Japan's "The Iron Chefs" by the way (In case you wonder, Food Network is doing "American Iron Chef"). Turns out that the Japanese company Fujiko Pro and Shogakukan Production who owns the character "Doraemon" are complaining to Michael Powell and The Federal Communications Comision, over a character on the FCC's Kids Web Site that is identified as "BROADBAND" and could be a copycat of the Japanese character.
New for 2005: HOMER SIMPSON IS DEAD???????? DOOOOOHHHH!!!!!
Doh! Another Simpson update! According to some press release, Matt Groening, creator of "The Simpsons" is talking about killing "Homer Simpson" during the ratings sweep. But "Homer" will live to tell! Actually is a moment where "Homer" will talk to God, according to Groening. At least you will find out if that will happen for real!
News Archived 2004:
The Citrus Parade is over, check the pictures folder!
Cartoon Network's newly imported attraction from Tokio, will celebrate the New Years Day and quite possibly will join Regis who is replacing Dick Clark at the hospital, due to heart stroke. I'm talking about "Hi Hi Puffy Amy Yumi". The singing duo has a cartoon during the FRIDAY's block at Cartoon Network and would be performing either live or tape delayed from Tokio, Japan.
Bear with me folks! As I stated before, I loss all the files from Windows 98, including the OFFICE BUNDLE. How I am updating this? I found a quite good solution with the NETSCAPE Browser. It came to my mind, cause I used before. I still evaluating several options. Among them, to review the SUN STAR OFFICE which I also used to use on the prior PC. Again, you will still see updates on the main site and also on the BLOG page. The BLOG page is easy to do with an interface. In Netscape you can also work the same as FRONT PAGE. Tough it will have a different look. but still won't change a thing. Again, I need to find out which one works best. Will keep you updated.
I am working with the evaluation version of SUN STAR OFFICE 7 and depending of the results, I may download the paid software, since is much cheaper than MICROSOFT's OFFICE bundle...
COST FOR SUN STAR OFFICE 7: Less than $40 dollars (This is only the download, retail value is around $80 bucks!)
COST FOR MICORSOFT's OFFICE BUNDLE: Between $150 and $300 Dollars!
Keep in mind that I am also giving consideration to NETSCAPE's COMPOSER, which is FREE!!!!! This is as part of the NAVIGATOR Browser and you don't have to pay for their INTERNET service, in order to download it. It is 100 times much better than using the NOTEPAD to edit HTML tags! I don't like that part! It is too way for me!
In less than 2 weeks, the annual CITRUS PARADE will run the City of Orlando FL. As part of the annual "Capital One Bowl" game on New Years Day, January 1st, 2005. Check the BLOG page for more details. I could have a nice surprise that will be revealed at any time during the holidays! By the way, NO JURY DUTY! Got Excused!
Right now, the volunteer opportunities are closed, so sorry, if you did not got the chance. I got it! 3 straight days of volunteering! It will be lots of fun. I am planning for more surprises during the holidays. THEME PARKS? It could happen!
Did I say I got Disney Tickets last year? There are somewhere in my pockets!
And remember! IN 3.2 MP! Thanks to FUJIFILM AND WEBSHOTS!
By the way, FCSPORTS has revealed the floats that will lead this year's parade. So you will see those floats being prepared for the parade.
Who's that first Pokemon? It's "Mew" in a movie!
I have some BREAKING NEWS for all you Pokemon Fans out there! Remember the "Pokemon: The First Movie" with "Mew" and "Mewtwo"? Of course, you have seen the movie in theaters, back in 1999 or 2000. Or have seen it in re-runs on Cartoon Network. Well, guess what? A new Pokemon Movie was revealed in Tokyo, Japan. What is most revealing is who stars in the new movie! MEW! The long lost Pokemon that battled against "Mewtwo" on the animated movie from Warner Brothers, is making a come back! What is going on? I have no idea. It came from SEREBII, but still needs to be confirmed. The new Pokemon Movie will be premiered on July 2005 in Japan. At this point, there is no USA date release date, but will keep you posted. But I guess is a return to Pokemon basics, like in the beginning. In fact, this is a movie that would reveal a new set of Pokemon that may be the pre-evolution of the original "Indigo" series. So far, a new Pokemon has been revealed and is "Munchlax"("Gombe"), a pre-evolved "Snorlax". Again more details will be released, so get ready to see another Pokemon adventure!
How the GRINCH stole SPONGEBOB?
Attention SPONGEBOB SQUAREPANTS fans! The Burger King Corporation, is offering rewards to whoever gives out information on who is the GRINCH that is stealing the inflated "Spongebob" that seats atop of the Burger King Restaurants...
...I wish the GRINCH would take out those "Burger King" commercials, I mean that one where a guy is in bed with "Burger King"...
...But WAIT! The rewards is not MONEY! Is in the form of "Whopper Bucks" or "Burger Money". The recent "Spongebob's" kidnapping was the main reason the burger giant is offering the rewards, but discourage others to go atop their restaurants to grab the 9 foot inflatable. In fact, one of the Orlando Restaurants did have to remove the inflatable from the roof and is displaying it, inside their restaurant. If you happen to know the whereabouts of America's soaping sensation, just click here to find out more!
In 3.2 MP: The Citrus Parade!
Once again, Save Animaniacs is proud to bring you the annual Orlando Citrus Parade. This is the same parade that pre-starts the annual "Capital One" Bowl game in Orlando on January 1st, 2005. So for those Football fans out there, who may or may not make it to Orlando and see the Parade, you will get a chance during the whole 2005, to see it! The best part is that for this parade, instead of FILM camera (Used in the 2001 and 2003 Parades) and the INTEL PLAY/ DIGITAL BLUE camera (That camera was used for the LYNX new terminal display), I have added a FUJIFILM Fine Pix Digital Camera in 3.2 Mega Pixels (Was the most cheap I could find at $149 bucks before taxes...$160!). So, now that I have the DIGITAL CAMERA that I always wanted (No offense to the Intel Play), I will let you know what I will do with the camera. Right now, on the Parades Folder, is a Christmas Parade that was held in Orlando recently and while that was my first attempt in using the camera (I know "American Idol's" Latoya London was a little fuzzy, but it was my first attempt to shoot!), most of the pictures came so clear! So expect to see more of this when the Citrus Parade comes. By the way, I got invited once again to do "Citrus Parade Floats", so expect that also even, before the parade starts!
More Parade News, a new Picture Folder, my hospital visit and JURY DUTY!
in the hospital last week, complaining of stomach aches, related to gastritis or GERD syndrome. In other words, I have the Ashley Simpson's thing that killed the "Saturday Night Live's" (SNL) performance a few weeks back....."On a Sunday, I am waiting, for the moment....." The "Pieces of Me" vocal track, to be exact! I am OK, so hopefully I don't get too greedy with food.... Since Thanksgiving is around! ANTACID PLEASE!!!!
Speaking of Thanksgiving, I just found out more information on the Orlando Citrus Parade and also the 78th Annual Macy's Thanksgiving Parade. For those who plan to attend the Orlando Citrus Parade on December 30th, 2004, The Florida Citrus Sports Committee that oversees the parade and the "Capital One" Citrus Bowl Game, is releasing information on how the parade will be held, as well it has an schedule for volunteers looking forward to fill Citrus Floats, like I did last year. I hope to do the same this year. If you are so lucky like I did, you may get tickets to Disney or Universal Studios. Also the fact that you may walk the parade route as part of the volunteers marchers and have a spot on national television, since the parade goes on over 100 TV stations and major Sports TV Networks like Florida's "Sunshine Network", to name a few. The Citrus Sport Committee does ask to sign a waver if you would like or not to march and be seen on TV. I did not wanted to march and be seen on ABC at all!
Jury summons please? I got a Juror summons or "Jury Duty" citation for the month of December and I am freaking out! The summons asks that I have to be available between December 1st and the 31st, not including Christmas Day! What it means is that I could be ask to serve any day in December, but what are my chances that I could be serving during the 24th and the 31st? Simply as less I could do during the first 3 weeks. I hope so, cause what are my chances of simply missing the traditional "Citrus Parade" in order to serve the courthouse? WHAT??? Also what are my chances that I will be sequestered? This is the 3rd time I do Jury Duty and have not seen myself inside a hotel room! GO FIGURE!
Now for those on the lookout for the 78th annual Macy's Thanksgiving Parade, I found some little information on the Parade Floats and performers, but I guess more information will be released soon, so check back. Speaking of performers, I read that former rocker of the 80's group "Chicago" Peter Cetera, would perform a Christmas song for the "FISHER PRICE" Float.
Also other performers will include Fantasia ("American Idol 3")performing at the US Postal Service "Spirit of America" Float, Raven Symone (Disney Channel's "That's so Raven") performing at the "Build-A-Bear Workshop's" float, Barenaked Ladies for Amica Insurace's "America's Malt Shop" float, Gavin De Graw, Jeff Timmons (Formerly of "98 Degrees"), Andrea Bocelli and Jose Feliciano at the "Hershey Kids Candy Creations" Float, singing...."FELIZ NAVIDAD, PROSPERO AñO Y FELICIDAD" among others.
"Baby, what a big surprise....Ohhhhh Noooooooo!" That sounds like "VH-1 Classics"!
The
last thing is to let you know
that there is a
new folder on the "Picture
Parade" link. This one is
the new LYNX Bus Terminal in
Orlando
FL. The 1985 older terminal is gone! It was the most
nightmare to
use it on a daily basis to get down to my job. I mean, stand one
hour
waiting in the hot sun or freezing winter weather, when you can now
relax indoor
with air conditioner and GIANT SIZE TV? Even the buses can now
leave when
they want, instead of all the buses leaving every 10 or 15 minutes,
causing a
back up traffic when departing the terminal. For those who came
on I-4 in
Orlando and noted a "wave" made of blue neon light, that is not
DISNEY!
Also CBS has told (Via Toonzone) that they will make promo's featuring "Elves" from the "North Pole". Who are they? David Letterman, Ray Romano, Charlie Sheen and "Survivor's" Jeff Probst. Call it "Survivor of the Elves!" The CBS special will run on December 1st 2004 at 8:00 PM Easter.
"Pokemon" may show the lost episodes!
4Kids Entertainment gave us a look at the first Pokemon and Yu-Gi-Oh spin off series (Just like "Arthur" spin off "Postcards from Buster" on PBS KIDS and "Rugrats" spin off "All Grown Up" on Nickelodeon). Turns out that Pokemon may show the lost episodes that where shown in Japan and somewhere else, but not in America. They call it "Pokemon Chronicles", a new spin off to the "Pokemon Advance" series and the first series that does not concentrate about Ash and Pikachu.
My believe is that in Japan there where several Pokemon episodes that detoured from the series and showed other characters doing their own adventures. I mean, if you recall the "Mewtwo Returns" Pokemon Special that was released on DVD, that was the main reason why in Japan, the series started doing like small episodes showing other characters from the series. Some of them, may show what happened to "Misty" and "Psyduck", after the "Johto League Champion" series (How could they explain why "Togepi" is with "Misty", when in the last "Pokemon Advance" series, "Misty" says goodbye to "Togetic" the evolved "Togepi"?) and even there is a "Team Rocket's" all alone episode. The series is slated for a fall 2005 showing on KWB.
"Emperor's New Groove" TV series? Next: "Lilo & Stitch's Extra-Terrorestrial encounter, The Series".......
Here we go again, Disney Channel's newest TV series in development, would be a spin off to the movie "The Emperor's New Groove" that was voiced by David Spade and John Goodman in 2000. Disney Channel is requesting 21 episodes of "Emperor's New Skool" for 2006. What's next? I assume a new spin off to "Lilo & Stitch's Extra Terrorestrial encounter, The Series". The last one after the new re-vamped attraction returned to the Magic Kingdom recently.
DIC KIDS pleases "The Smurf" fans!
"La-la-la-la-la-la......" STOP IT!!!!!! DIC KIDS has issue the statement that could make "Papa Smurf" so proud, or would make it worse than the CHEF BOYARDEE commercial (Circa 1982)! Just check the website BlueBuddies.com for the "Smurfy-licious" commercial! In the meantime, the old 1980's "The Smurf" series will be seen early 2005 and will be courtesy of the DIC KIDS network (Mostly made of FOX/WB/UPN stations). According to Andy Heyward, Chairman/CEO of DIC Entertainment, claims they got the rights to 26 episodes of the "Hanna/Barbera" series that was originally developed for NBC TV back in the year 1980. Currently the series is property of Warner Brothers (Acquired originally by Turner in the 1990's) and it's only available to Cable Subscribers via "Cartoon Network" and "Boomerang" channels. The episodes that DIC acquired are mostly FCC friendly and are to comply with the "Children Educational Informational Act" (That is best known as the E/I rating that most children TV shows gets like "Dora The Explorer" on "NICK ON CBS" weekend block). Other DIC KIDS shows includes "Sabrina The Teenage Witch" and "Liberty Kids" (Former PBS KIDS series).
Breaking news: NBC cancels "Father of the Pride"
What is going on at the Turkey Channel? Yet is not Thanksgiving and the Macy's Parade is not yet coming, but so does NOVEMBER SWEEPS!
Here's the latest regarding the possibility of NBC canceling "Father of the Pride":
According to Reuters and Yahoo via Toonzone, that Hollywood Reporter is confirming that NBC will not order any new episodes of the "Dreamworks" computer (CGI) animated series based on the Siegfried and Roy shows in Vegas (Before a tiger attack that almost killed the magician). It seems like the shown is poorly performing at the ratings that NBC has decided to cancel the show and it has even removed the show from the November Sweeps. In the meantime, few of the episodes are not being seen, until at least the end of the year or after January 2005. By the way, the cost per episode is about $2 Million Dollars. That explains the NBC's decision of giving out on those lions!
Disney reveals "Chicken Little"
Disney is not releasing the summer 2005 computer movie based on the tale of "Chicken Little" yet. However Mouse house is trying to push the movie with some upcoming events. Recently Disney signed with the Macy's Thanksgiving Parade organizers to have a giant Helium Balloon depicting the new character to made the debut during the Thanksgiving holiday. Now comes word that Disney is debuting the trailer for the upcoming movie and Disney has the site up and running. Check it out!
More legal battles for Disney, from Pooh to Peter Pan and Marvel
Since where still talking Disney, there are more legal battles involving Mouse House. Just this past year, we had the "Pooh" fight with the heirs and just recently there was the "Peter Pan" legal fight against the London's Children Hospital, who claims that Disney owns royalties to them. Now joining the legal battlefield, is no other than Marvel Comics! You read! Superman and Batman, hang up tight! Disney is having a legal battle with the comic maker.
An article from Reuters claims that Disney owns them royalties due for the use of their properties on their ABC Family Channel, a channel that use to be FOX Family Channel and even before that, use to be known as FAMILY CHANNEL.
Disney's ABC Family had acquired the cartoons from FOX Family back in 2001, after buying the channel from the NEWS Corporation and the library from "Saban Entertainment". Some of the shows that FOX family use to had where among them, "Power Rangers", "Spider Man", "The X-Men" and "The Incredible Hulk". After Disney took control of the cartoons, Marvel claimed that Disney did not pay any royalty for the series being broadcasted on the ABC Family channel.
Howie on the satellite...Or the Water Tower?
The last thing you need to hear, is the not so well mannered "Howie Turn" having a stint on Satellite radio. After Clear Channel and The Federal Communications Commission added some fuel to the issue, regarding the well known shock jock from NYC, now the "unpopular" Howard Stern shocked the entire radio business by telling "I can't fight!" With that said, Stern signed a billionaire contract with Satellite's SIRIOUS RADIO and will start broadcasting after January 2006. What this means for "Howie Turn and Robin" of Animaniacs? Another stint from The Water Tower?
HOWIE: "Im the king of all shockers and Satellite radio! I will broadcast from the Water Tower and will try to take over the world!"
PINKY: "Gee Howie, what would you do tonight?"
HOWIE: "Same thing we do every night Pinky, try to take over the FCC!"
"Stanley" goes "Veggie Tales"?
What if Disney's "Stanley" gets a message from above? There goes the BIG BOOK song......
"Here's the big book of everything, with everything inside....."
Hold it! ( * _ * )
Can't think of this song anyhow, but other than an article on the Animation World Network's Website (www.awn.com) that mentions that "Stanley," "PB & J Otter" (Disney) and "Doug's" (Nick/Disney) creator Jim Jinkins is exploring an animated series named "Hoop Dogz", based on the other big book that is also known as The Bible. Earlier this year, we talked about the "Veggie Tales" characters (Big Idea) being explored in a movie ("Jonah: The Veggie Tales Movie") about the Bible's tale of Jonah and the whale.
Another religious based property, "Davey and Goliath" (Evangelical Lutheran Church) made a cameo appearance on a commercial for Pepsi's "Mountain Dew" (The one with the can fight from Davey, then his dad took the can and drank the whole soda! Then "Goliath" goes: "Ohhhhh Davey!"). Now comes word that the faith based organization decided to produce a new holiday special, soon to come.
Then last, but not least, actor Mel Gibson with his controversial "The Passion of The Christ" is in talks about making an animated version of the movie, only that this version will not have too much violence than the original movie. Still will tell the whole story.
Is back! The annual Orlando Citrus Parade!
December 30th 2004 at 11:00 AM in Downtown Orlando!
BE THERE! We'll do!
More information to come, check the BLOG page for details!
Pokemon may unveil new set of characters and a movie!
For those fans of the cute "Pikachu" of "Pokemon" may want to know that a new set of characters and a new movie may be revealed in Japan during the holiday season. One of the new characters was recently revealed on a movie known as "Pokemon Advance: The Visitor of Space Fissure", which by the way, the USA version of the movie was renamed as "Pokemon Advance: Destiny Deoxys" and although a release date is not yet on the calendar, be on the lookout for it, cause there is the evolution of the Pokemon "Snorlax", known as "Gombe" in Japan and "Munchlax" in the USA versions. This information comes from the Pokemon Spoiler Page SEREBII.NET. We like to call it "The Spoiler Page" cause all the information they have is mostly not known yet, but only in Japan.
"Buy Me, Buy Me!" SONY buys MGM and PINK PANTHER! Time Warner losses bid for "Rocky"!
Finally, the "Buy Me, Buy Me" that we heard time and again, has been heard by entertainment giant SONY, who is in talks with another group of back-up buyers, including Comcast Cable (The one that wanted to buy Disney!), to pitch the asking price of $5 billion dollars in order to buy the MGM/United Artist library that includes PINK PANTHER and the "Rocky" movies with Sylvester Stallone. This move is done after Time Warner Company, who owns Warner Brothers and KIDS WB, decided to withdraw from the MGM bidding. Now the elusive panther will co-join mega artist like Michael Jackson and Jackie Chan!
Possible "Brother Bear" sequel and animated series for Disney Channel?
It is not yet official, but a small mention on the Toonzone page, was the possibility of Disney doing a "Brother Bear 2" movie sequel to the animated hit movie that was done in the now defunct Disney Florida Animation in Orlando's MGM studios. There was also a mentioning on the web site for the school that attends the voice of "Koda", young actor Jeremy Suarez, who claims that Disney will use him in a new TV series for "Brother Bear", who will be done for The Disney Channel. Still developing, so more to come.
Michael Eisner may leave Disney before 2006, according to Save Disney!
Last week, Disney's chief executive Michael Eisner, went public to say that he will step down of The Walt Disney Company by the end of the contract in 2006. However The Save Disney Web Site still pressing for an early leave for the Mouse House executive. Tough Eisner claims that he will leave the company in 2006, however he will still keep a chair on the Walt Disney Board of Members. A think that keeps both Roy Disney and Stanley Gold wondering, how far the company will go with Eisner's leadership. There is an open letter on the Save Disney Web Site that states the following:
Michael Eisner's announcement that he intends to remain CEO for the next two years forces you to make a critical decision. Will you choose to let the Company drift for two more years - allowing the pall Mr. Eisner has cast to continue to drive the most talented and creative people away from Disney, erode the morale of current employees, and prevent the Company from attracting the strong, dynamic, and creative leader it needs? Or will you reject Mr. Eisner's brazen attempt to usurp your responsibilities as directors by stage-managing the appointment of his anointed successor and instead tangibly show your commitment to best corporate practices by immediately initiating an expeditious and broad search for a world-class CEO?
The open letter was directed to the board members, who will decide on September 20th to keep Eisner for the next 2 years of follow Roy's advice and get rid of him.
The Batman on KIDS WB and The Batman on Buckingham Palace
So most of you know that "The Batman" series started on KIDS WB this past weekend of September 11th 2004, but how about having the real deal, The Batman hitting Buckingham Palace? Yes, a costumed Batman and an accomplice in Robin costume made a surprise appearance at the Buckingham Palace, to hold a banner for the group FATHERS 4 JUSTICE. It appears that the superhero was looking like a FOE while attempting to disrupt operations in the Palace. Even Scotland Yard was threatening to kill his sidekick in Robin mask, but after a 5 hour stand up, both Batman and Robin gave up to the English authorities. All the Batman wanted is to defend the rights of children. The Fathers 4 Justice group is an organization against divorce of parents in the UK. No comments where made from DC Comics, regarding the incident.
AAAAAAALVIIIIIIIIIIIIN! Alvin and The Chipmunks "CGI"
"Alvin and The Chipmunks" will be made into a CGI movie, like the "Garfield" movie or the "Scooby Doo" or "Shrek" movies. According to FOX Pictures, who is in talks with Ross Bagdasarian Jr and Janice Karman, the new version of the 1950's squeaky cartoons created by the late Ross Bagdasarian Sr (AKA: Dave Seville), may have a highly profiled comedian to play The Chipmunk's dad, but no information of who will voice Alvin, Simon and Theodore, but the fact that they will be made in CGI
BLOG! BLOG! BLOG! We have BLOG!!!!!
We have BLOG! I was considering a blog too, but when I first saw it, I tough that I was not ready for it and could not afford the service. Now Tripod is giving their members the free version of the Blog service, so I decided to give it a try. So I will try to test the waters and quite possibly I will allow Animaniacs fans to try it too. So stay tune to the new Save Animaniacs BLOG! BLOG! BLOG! BLOG!
Move out in progress. Is that Frances?
Were moving! As a result of the passing of Hurricane Charley and due to some major damage to my bedroom, I will be moving out of the so called Timeshare complex that I was calling home for the last 4 years. I will move to another apartment complex in the Orlando area, so in the next few days I may not be able to update this site. However, you can still check the Save Animaniacs BLOG page for some minor updates, regarding the move out. Guess what? The next time I update this page, chances are that I will use HIGH SPEED INTERNET. Because of the continuous use of the internet that uses the telephone line and the fact that I could not use the computer when my other brother is using it, I decided to bring the HIGH SPEED INTERNET option. It will take several days or at least 1 to 2 weeks to install the Cable TV and Internet Modem. But still I will do it to keep you all informed. As I update this site, there is another storm going on. Just after we got hit by Hurricane Charlie, now comes Frances! Do we need to be bothered again with a tropical whirlpool? GO AWAY FRANCES!
Cheating at the Olympiads!
Who is that guy who came and took out the Brazilian delegate while running the marathon? Some of you saw the final event of the 2004 Olympic Games from Athens, Greece. The traditional marathon went smooth and with no problems, until the last mile before the finish line, when some unknown guy jumped from the back of the crowd and stopped Brazilian delegate Vanderlei Lima, whiting minutes of reaching the final mile and win the gold medal, but then out of nowhere, came this guy and stopped Lima of reaching the gold, so instead it was Italian delegate Stefano Baldini, who walked away with the gold medal. Lima took Bronze and US delegate Meb Keflezighi took the silver medal. So is this another example of CHEATING? Maybe was for the ratings! Speaking of ratings, The closing ceremonial of the Olympic Games from Athens, Greece came as TAPE DELAYED. Something for the ratings, but why when almost everybody in the world saw the closing ceremonial of the Olympic Games, NBC TV delayed the ceremonial to be broadcasted in Prime-Time? Maybe they took the time to do some back to back coverage of the games that where already made the prior day. In the meantime, MTV is doing the traditional Video Music Awards and in case you miss it, check your TV schedules, cause the VMA will be seen during the months Of September and October.
KIDS WB reveals new schedules and renames "Mucha Lucha!"
Just to update in the new KIDS WB schedules for the 2004-05 season to start the week of September 11, 2004. The information came from Toonzone.
Kids
WB has announced their new fall schedule, which
premieres Saturday, September 11, 2004. Two new series are joining Kids
WB, The
Batman and Da Boom Crew. Kids WB shows returning to the Saturday
schedule with
all-new episodes include the next installments of Pokémon:
Advanced
Challenge
and Yu-Gi-Oh!, as well as Jackie Chan Adventures, Xiaolin Showdown,
Teen Titans
and the newly retitled ¡Mucha Lucha! Gigante.
On September 11, to coincide with the premiere of The Batman, Kids WB
teams up
with Mattel to give away a thousand new Batman Batwave TV Activated
(VEIL) toys
during the "Kids' WB! Bat-Tastic Sweepstakes." Each hour viewers will
be invited to locate the "Bat Gadget" on-air in order to be eligible
to win. Once the viewer knows the "Bat Gadget," they may enter by
logging onto www.KidsWB.com
or by sending in a postcard. Winners will be awarded with a Batwave TV
Activated
Batlink communicator or a Batwave TV Activated Batmobile vehicle. The
toys
feature VEIL technology, which links the Batmobile and the BatWave
directly to
The Batman.
On Monday, September 13, Kids WB's new weekday lineup premieres.
Returning to
the schedule are Jackie Chan Adventures, ¡Mucha Lucha!,
Pokémon and
Yu-Gi-Oh!.
Also returning later during the season will be What's New Scooby-Doo?
Here is the full schedule (All times are eastern):
Saturdays
8:00am Jackie Chan Adventures
8:30am ¡Mucha Lucha! Gigante
9:00am Teen Titans
9:30am Xiaolin Showdown
10:00am Pokemon: Advanced Challenge
10:30am The Batman
11:00am Yu-Gi-Oh!
11:30am Da Boom Crew
Weekdays
3:00am Jackie Chan Adventures
3:30am ¡Mucha Lucha!
4:00am Pokemon
4:30am Yu-Gi-Oh!
By the way, I don't know if this re-naming of "Mucha Lucha Gigante" has something to do with the Univision's "Sabado Gigante" with "Don Francisco"
Some sour notes about Charlie
We just survived Hurricane Charlie! We where out in the dark since Friday the 13th of August. Yet even worse, we where almost left with no place to call home. In other words, due to the fact that Charlie was able to damage my bedroom and at any given moment, the ceiling will collapse, I cannot go into my bedroom, although I have to make way to use the bathroom and shower, but the roof is almost going to gave way, so I hope and pray to not be smashed by Charlie's aftermath.
Speaking of Aftermath, boy I should tell you this. The American Red Cross was a little bit OK with the situation, but after the hurricane, I was without electricity and most of the food was spoiled, so on Saturday at midnight, things where getting worse. Where trying to get a hotel room to spend the night, but in Orlando almost everything was at full capacity. Since Charlie hit most of the tourist capital of Orlando, most of the residents from Central Florida and from Tampa, came and took over the major attraction's hotels and resorts. Believe it or not, the Timeshare resort that I call home, was completely in the dark. At midnight, I was scared by the fact that the ceiling was making some noises while water was pouring down and cracked several times, giving me the impression that it would fall apart, with the concrete and base included, so I tough on leaving the whole building and went outside in total darkness and only one candle turned on. I waited for a while with news that a hotel room would be available, but instead, everything was full. I was desperate to get out of the Timeshare, so I tough of the temporary shelter that was opened near Universal Studios in Orlando. It was a make shift Shelter at Dr. Phillips High School that was set up by The American Red Cross for the hurricane victims. So I did not hesitated on getting out and reach it. So I did and spend most of the Sunday August 15 and Monday the 16th, at the shelter.
Well, The American Red Cross never asked me why I was looking for a place to stay and just simply gave me what I need it, a place to stay at the high school's gym and a couth bed with a cover. Sounds nice huh? Well, it all went to well, until Monday August 16, the school closed the make shift shelter and The American Red Cross was told to move the shelter to a community center in northwest Orlando/Orange County. So either I leave the shelter or move out with the shelter? That was the question on my mind for a while, since the move was called all of the sudden. So finally decided to move with the shelter on the grounds that I was still unsafe at the house's bed room and the fact that there was no electricity.
To make things worse, after I left the first shelter, I was told that the ceiling of my house went wide open, but the good news is that electricity was available at the Timeshare resort and my now ailing apartment also has electricity. But I still move with the shelter since I tough it was safer although it would now be more far than the original shelter. Once we reach the new location, we where told by the American Red Cross to make a list of things that we need and then, a truck brought the things from the other shelter, including the couth beds. However, there was a 180° degrees turn for the worse, when an Orange County person showed up and requested the American Red Cross to return all the couth beds, since they where supposed to be used at the make shift shelter at the high school and they where not allowed in the community center where the new shelter was set up. So in other words, NO BED is allowed at the new make shift shelter. The American Red Cross personal was trying to negotiate the matters with the County and City officials but to no luck. A truck showed up and took the couth beds. Some of the victims walked away from the community center and raised eyebrows from city officials where seen around the area as most of the victims where told that they have to make beds with their belongings. In other words, go to SLEEP IN THE FLOOR!
Now seriously, how come that in a time of real need, the City of Orlando and Orange County start a battle of who could use a couth bed? When do you see families with small children lying flat in the dirty floor? What's wrong with the picture? I can't even lye down on the floor, so how in the word, they ask for such kind of sacrifice in order to stay at the shelter? So I simply decided to return back to the Timeshare apartment with the falling down ceiling cause, it is too much for me to lay flat on the floor and see some "INHUMANE" conditions coming out of there. I even saw a family of small kids and I asked them if they where leaving the shelter and the mother told me she was going to New Jersey cause she can't lye on the floor and she has a neck problem and why place the small children in the dirty floor? So I was kind of heart broken just to see this kind of conditions, all thanks to the Orange County officials who instead of lending a hand, starts a fight for their policies on who is the "needy" here. Their policies call "Needy" a person that is old enough and cannot support themselves or even mothers with babies, but all the others are like worthless people, including children. So I was too mad about it and I even called The American Red Cross hot line to state the matter and I even let them talk to a Red Cross volunteer who was close to me at the moment, but even their efforts resulted in vain. They said that they cannot work a solution cause the couth beds belongs to Orange County. But again, why Orange County decides to go "GREEDY" with the victims of hurricane Charlie? HELLO RICHARD CROTTY!
Now, I'm back in the Timeshare with the broken ceiling and a rug that turned into a pond, with a foul smell and my bed is now in the living room. OK, you say "How lucky you are" when there are even worse conditions down south in Punta Gorda, near Fort Myers where Charlie hit with over 140 MPH winds and left a devastation similar to Hurricane Andrew in 1992. Now I'm just taking this out of my chest, so I apologize for this long comment, but in a very bad situation that is going on in the Sunshine State, I tough it would be necessary to vent this out.
Not to even mention that on Friday morning of August the 13th, I was working and my mother calls me to my job telling me to get out as quick as I can, cause Charlie would make way into Orlando and the bus service "LYNX" was going to be suspended earlier than expected. So I told my supervisor to let me go early in the day to welcome Charlie. However, I rode the first bus from my work place into the Downtown bus terminal and I was awaiting a second bus. Turns out that the customer service at the terminal was closed with a sign telling "Bus Service to end at 3:00 PM". But every bus that entered into the terminal was to drop off passengers and then the "Out of Service" was displayed on the route window. I asked a supervisor for "Lynx" and he told me that the bus service was suspended and that I have to find an alternative to get out. What alternative? A Taxi Cab at the high cost of $25 bucks from the terminal to my home! I could see hundreds more making taxi drivers living possible! From Theme Parks to hotels and to add the "LYNX" terminal to the Taxi's menu was the "salad bar" of their pockets! It was to be compared to CBS's hit show "The Amazing Race"....
"RUN CHARLA, RUN!" Yes, the infamous Charla and cousin Mirna duo was eliminated in a recent episode of CBS's "The Amazing Race" all because of a late flight and an ostrich egg. If you come to Orlando, try to eat alligator wings at "Gatorland" theme park!
.....Ok, back to the hurricane stuff! After the storm comes the calm, so they say and to make matters worse, over 1 million people with no electricity and trying to get some ice and water. After the bad experience, I returned to work and still trying to make some sense with some good people and some greedy people that rather prefer to play some politics rather than lending a helping hand. So that's my story and as a fast food rat says: "Enough Said!" So go ahead and pledge to The American Red Cross!
Benji's left with one eye to see "Off The Leash"
K-9 icon "Benji" showed up with owner, Joe Camp at the ABC's "Good Morning America" to promote the new "Benji: Off The Leash" movie, now playing in theaters nationwide. However some of you may have noted something weird on Benji's left eye! The 3 1/2 year old mutt from Mississippi underwent eye surgery a few days back (I heard of it, but with the Hurricane Charley crossing the Caribbean before Florida, it was like less attention grabbing). But still you will see both Camp and Benji making TV appearance as the new Benji movie hits the big screen!
Another related note, the movie "Benji Off The Leash" appears that disappointed at the box office, when the movie debuted at 16 on the list of weekend releases (8/22/04). The top spot was claimed by another 70's icon, "The Exorcist: The Beginning" (Yes, both "Benji" and "The Exorcist" are 70's stuff!)
New Pokemon Advance Challenge on KWB
Finally, after a summer of repeats, Kids WB is revealing the final 4 episodes of "Pokemon Advance" and the new season of "Pokemon Advance Challenge". Yet, we tough that the new episodes would not come until the weekend of September 11, 2004. That's when KIDS WB will start the new 2004-05 season with new episodes of "Pokemon Advance Challenge". However there is 4 episodes left for "Pokemon Advance" that belongs to the ending 2003-2004 season that will end on September 4, 2004. How they will break down those 4 remaining episodes? they will play 2 episodes the next 2 weeks, before moving with the new season. So rejoice Pikachu fans! Comes the new season of "Pokemon Advance Challenge" will meet some new Pokemon that will join "Ash" and the "Twerps".....
MAX: "NO WAY TWERPS!"
Missed the Olympics opening. Thanks Charlie!
With all the Hurricane Charlie stuff, I forgot the Olympic Games from Athens, Greece! NBC is offering some 24 hours coverage of the games, while using their outlets, from NBC TV and MSNBC to Spanish Network Telemundo in both the US and Puerto Rico. However because of Hurricane Charlie's coverage on Friday night (8/13/04) and the fact that electricity was gone in half of the state, a lot of people missed the opening ceremonials. I heard that the FCC would file a complaint because a bad word was even mentioned while on the air and at the opening ceremonial, there was some images being shown that raised some eyebrows, but since I did not saw the whole thing, you go figure!
Speaking of The FCC, they had said that they will fine CBS for half a million bucks, thanks to Janet and Justin at the Superbowl's half time show. Now I know why Howie Turn was taken out of the airwaves! Did the FCC fined Clear Channel because Rush Limbaugh used some words on the airwaves? Go Figure!
NO SPONGEBOB! NO BLUES CLUES! NO NICKELODEON! WHAT???
What are the good guys at "Nick" thinking? On October 2, 2004, Nickelodeon will go off the air! This is not a joke! They will go off the air on 10/02/04. No "Spongebob", no "Rugrats", no "Jimmy Newtron"! What else could be thinking?
Of course if you think this can't be, then check the PR NEWS Wire that was send via Toonzone. As part of Nickelodeon's 25th year Celebration, being dubbed as "Worldwide Day of Play," Nickelodeon will go off the air on October 2, 2004 between 12:00 PM (Noon) and 3:00 PM Eastern Time/Pacific Time. Also other Nickelodeon outlets worldwide will go off the air for 3 hours, pre-empting shows like "Jimmy Newtron" and "Hey Arnold". Instead, Nickelodeon will offer live performance of kids being active and teaching kids and parents to become active and stay off the TV set. In other words, get ready to spend a Saturday without "SpongeBob" or "Jimmy Newtron"
E-Bay sells "Knight Rider's" 'KITT'
"FOR SALE" 1983 black Pontiac -Trans Am with tag reading "California KITT"
Description reads: "Original 1983 Pontiac Trans Am limited edition, being used in the popular NBC series "Knight Rider" with David Hasselhoff (As: "Michael Knight"). Price asked is around $60,000."
Recently, E-Bay sold one of the best known TV icons since "Batman's" Bat-mobile that Adam West rode back in the 1960's. E-Bay auctioned TV's original "Knight Rider's" KITT (Knight Industries Two Thousand) Pontiac Trans Am, being designed as the most interesting....or annoying......vehicle ever made for a TV series. The original owner of the car is no other than producer of "Knight Rider" Glen A. Larson. I have no idea of who bough the vehicle, but if you love "Knight Rider", there was your only chance to own TV's most loved....or hated......vehicle ever made!
KITT: "HATED? One car can make a difference, Carol!"
(Based on the TV' saying of "One Man Can Make A Difference, Michael")
By the way, speaking of "Knight Rider" the series is now available on DVD.
"Star Wars" movie announced on Comic convention
"Star Wars" fans can only hope to wait till the conclusion of the 3rd prequel and then the speculation game on whenever a new version of "Star Wars" could replace the 1977 movie with Harrison Ford, Mark Hamill and Carrie Fisher. What are you thinking George Lucas?
The newest "Star Wars" movie being named "Revenge of The Sith", was announced at the San Diego Comic Con. The news prompted the attendants to the convention to give a loud cheer to George Lucas and their team, when it was told that the movie will be released on May 19. This is the 3rd and final prequel that will bridge the 1977 "Star Wars: A New Hope", the 1980 "Empire Strikes Back" and the 1984's "Return Of The Jedi".
Birthday for Save Animaniacs!
Yes is my birthday! I was born on July 12, 1969. I share birthday with "Little Bill's" Bill Cosby too! What I was doing for my birthday, you ask? Nothing! I just went to work, since Telemarketing does not care if I get a day off. I just got as a gift a VCR, so I can record some shows, including "Pokemon Advance" and some PBS shows, in between!
"DO NOT CALL ME! I just signed for the national "do not call" list!" Sure, I will help, if I can! But stop complaining!
Prime Time Emmy's nominates "Sponge Bob Square Pants"
It was announced the nominees for the annual Prime Time Emmys. Sponge Bob Square Pants (Nickelodeon) and The Simpson (FOX) led the nominations for the 56th annual awards to be held on September 19, 2004. The information came from AWN and TOONZONE.
Athens goes for the gold, Boomerang goes for "Laff A Lympics"
I knew they will come with it! I'm talking about the classic Hanna-Barbera's "Laff A Lympics" series that made some fun at the Olympic games. The late 1970's series was one of several Hanna-Barbera's multi cast of characters series, that combined some of the beloved characters like "Scooby Doo" and "Yogi Bear" all together.....Anyone likes that "Grape Ape"?
"BLAH!"
That was the bad rabbit, from the "Rottens" team led by "Mutley"!
Well, Boomerang (Cartoon Network) will display a 72 hour marathon of the series to coincide with the Athens Olympic Games to be held in August 13th to 15th. The information from Cartoon Network's Boomerang via Toonzone.
When a new Pokemon will show up?
I just check and recheck the Serebii's list of new episodes of Pokemon Advance (KIDS WB) and no new episode is scheduled this far! The last time a new Pokemon was seen on KWB was in May 22, 2004. Since then it has been in reruns and it may be possible that a new episode will come in late August or early September. But Serebii was changing the dates ever 2 weeks. In May, Serebii told that a new episode would be in June. Last month was June and it promised that would be in July. Comes July and it was changed to August. So when August comes, will they change the dates to September? October? November? "NO WAY!!!!" That was "Max" yelling at the web master at Serebii! KIDS WB won't tell that, but I'll bet that no later than September 11, 2004 (Ironic that is the 9-11 anniversary!).
Too much for censorship!
Who could be blamed for the continuous censorship going on America's airwaves?
Since the controversy regarding singer Janet Jackson making a performance at the Super Bowl with boy-band's Justin Timberlake and all of the sudden a wardrobe malfunction, started a national cleanup of the airwaves, courtesy of the FCC and media giant Clear Channel Communications. The result was very clear, when media conglomerate Clear Channel dropped out of the airwaves the controversial radio host Howard Stern (Howie Turn and Robin of Animaniacs!) and started a so called zero tolerance of whatever you could call "Indecent".
Just a few days ago, while listening to "Real Radio" (XM Satellite channel 152), I noted that the morning show "Monsters in The Morning" (The replacement of Stern in Orlando), was on "Best Of" mode (Recorded!). The week prior to that, the 7 Orlando based jocks, lead by Russ Rollins, went with some remarks from a Tampa FL based commissioner that felt the show was too way out of the line. It appears that the way the show was handled, led Clear Channel Communications to stop the broadcasting of the show and suspended the guys for a whole week. An article at the Orlando Sentinel and Local 6 (CBS Orlando) was able to confirm what I was fearing for a while! CENSORSHIP IN THE MAKING!
Elmo gets "Beary" plush at Build A Bear
(UPDATED)
Toy novelty retailer "Build A Bear Workshop" has teamed up with Sesame Workshop, the team behind PBS's "Sesame Street" and will bring a "Beary Limited" edition of Sesame Street's "Elmo" to their outlets on July 23rd. "Build A Bear Workshop" is a retailer that specializes in letting their guest to build a bear plush toy. I just fell in love with the retailer and keeps me buying some cute toys from the store.
UPDATE: Build A Bear Workshop has delayed the launch of "Create Your Own Elmo". No new date has been given, but their web site ask customers to sign up for notification regarding the Elmo's launch. Also an article was found from Yahoo.
Happy 4th of July!
Happy 4th of July everyone! I am glad that I got 3 days of no work in telemarketing! I will do BBQ and take some nap time! No, I won't see Will Smith's "Independence Day" courtesy of FOX TV! In the meantime, enjoy the fireworks and enjoy this update! By the way, T-MAC is happily playing with Houston Rockets and left Orlando. Hey T-Mac! When the time comes for Orlando getting an NBA Title, will see who was right! LOL!
WGN brings KIDS WB
I just found this information on Toonzone. This will apply only to Chicago and vicinity. It is confirmed that WGN TV will carry KIDS WB comes the fall 2004. For a while, WGN TV only carried THE WB and another station was doing KIDS WB line up. So WGN TV will become a full WB carrier for the major Chicagoland area. This does not apply to the Superstation WGN. Since I care less to watch the same shows that Nickelodeon's "Nick At Night" carry, like "The Cosby Show" or "Fresh Prince of Bell Air" with Will Smith. Just to let you know!
MGM is in talks with Time Warner again?
Since I mentioned that MGM is in talks with every major entertainment giant, it seems like the deal is not yet inked. At least from what I heard and see, MGM is keeping the library that includes "Rocky", "The Wizard of OZ" and "Pink Panther" on hold, until a major deal is stroke. Warner Brothers parent company Time Warner is biding some $5 billion dollars. Recently, Sony was also bidding for the media conglomerate. Still in the middle, a recent decision from the Supreme Court that told the FCC to basically end the softening of media giants merging into another. So if the deal is reach between Time Warner and MGM, will the FCC allow it? Tune in next time as we see the "Rocky" fight of the century!
Guess who's back? Howie Turn!
Singing the Eminem tune of "Guess who's back, back again, Howie's back, tell a friend!" Of course the infamous shock jock of the radio is making more headlines than Michael Eisner at Disney! If you recall, during the month of February 2004, a dispute of the FCC's indecency rules, led the media giant "Clear Channel" to stop broadcasting the Howard Stern's radio show in several cities, including Orlando FL. Now of course, Howard Stern and Robin Quivers, who host the nationally syndicated radio show, has been mentioned and parodied in several occasions, including "Animaniacs" episode "Morning Malaise" (Voiced by Maurice La Marche of "The Brain" fame!). So basically, while I was heading to work, I found out that another Orlando station was promoting the self proclaimed "King of all Media's" return to the Orlando Market, as well other markets that send Stern packing as part of the "Clear Channel" and FCC's indecency rules. The Howard Stern's radio show is scheduled to start in the Orlando and other markets as of July 19th.
HOWIE TURN of Animaniacs: "I'm the king of all radio and I will return to Orlando and The Water Tower!"
The Bus has cartoons and I will prove it!
I told before that I was seeing cartoons inside the LYNX Mass Transit in Orlando. So to prove it, I took my web cam and entered inside the public bus and I did spotted the cartoon "Dudley Do Right of the Mounties". If you read this matter before, where I did mentioned that several transit authorities in cities like Orlando, Chicago and Milwaukee where using TV sets or monitors to broadcast TV advertisements and some old vintage shows like "The Lucy Show/I love Lucy", "Bonanza" and "Andy Griffith" to name a few, I did wanted to bring the pictures to your consideration. However I also have small Movie Files for the "Doodley Do Right" cartoon. Tough I can't host it thru Tripod, I found a web site that is willing to do so. The Rocky & Bullwinkle site, part of the Toonzone hosted sites. They will do a page for the files, so check it out. In the meantime, here are some shots from the inside of the bus:
I expect to bring more images and video files of the cartoons. I will check back eventually and post more information on this new innovation for mass transit users like me!
Dwight Howard VS T-MAC!
No, is not "Mucha Lucha", but here's more on the Orlando "Tragic" or "Magic" with the newest player, taken from the NBA Draft this past week. When everybody was talking about a guy named Emeka Okafor who won the NCAA's most valuable player and most of the players where simply high school kids, that nobody would care to choose, comes Orlando and picks at #1, not Emeka, but a kid named Dwight Howard. Now the big question: "Who is that guy?" Nobody took it as a surprise, but someone at the ESPN Network did not like it and yelled "This Orlando franchise will regret this choosing for the next 10 years or more..." What? Orlando did figured out what the guys would say about the newest NBA draftee? I think the Orlando Magic will keep des-uniting fans. The proven sign will show what I mean (You won't see this sign, cause it was copied and pasted, but to give you an idea!):
Orlando Sentinel makes Disney crisis the FRONT PAGE!
Disney makes the front page of The Orlando Sentinel.