The Academy of Science Fiction, Fantasy, and Horror Films has revealed their plans to bestow The George Pal Memorial Award to the highly talented and influential figure in the world of animation and storytelling, Dave Filoni. The Award will be presented to Filoni at the upcoming 51st Annual Saturn Awards, set to take place on February 4, 2024 at 4PM PST, hosted by Joel McHale.
Filoni’s exceptional storytelling abilities combined with his deep understanding of “Star Wars” lore has introduced some of the most popular series, stories and characters to a galaxy far, far away. His dedication to maintaining the integrity of the franchise while pushing creative boundaries has earned him immense respect from fans and industry professionals alike. Filoni’s work is characterized by his ability to blend action, emotion and mythology, creating compelling narratives that resonate with fans of all ages and his passion for the franchise shines through in every project he undertakes.
Academy President Robert Holguin and Saturn Awards producers Bradley and Kevin Marcus comment, “Dave’s work has had a profound impact on the Star Wars franchise, breathing new life into beloved characters and expanding the universe in exciting and unexpected ways. He is a true visionary in the world of animation and storytelling, and we are truly honored to bestow this very special award to him.”
Named after legendary filmmaker and animator George Pal (“War of the Worlds,” “When Worlds Collide,” “The Time Machine,” and “Puppetoons”), the George Pal Memorial Award is one of our most highly coveted honors, presented on rare occasions to a filmmaker who embodies a sense of wonder, imagination, and mastery of the fantastic in cinematic storytelling. Previous recipients include William Friedkin, Frank Marshall, Kathleen Kennedy, John Carpenter, Sam Raimi, Guillermo del Toro and the legendary Ray Harryhausen.
Dave Filoni realized a lifelong dream in 2005 when he was selected by George Lucas to help build Lucasfilm’s animation studio from the ground up and create the company’s first series, “Star Wars: The Clone Wars.” Over a span of seven seasons, and more than 100 episodes, “The Clone Wars” won four Emmy Awards.
Filoni is creator, writer, and executive producer on the critically acclaimed series “Ahsoka,” executive producer, episodic director, and writer on the Emmy Award-winning series “The Mandalorian,” as well as its spin off series “The Book of Boba Fett.” Filoni is the creator and executive producer of the animated series “Star Wars: The Bad Batch” and “Tales of the Jedi.” He is also executive producing the upcoming Star Wars series, “Skeleton Crew.” Dave was recently promoted to Chief Creative Officer of Lucasfilm.
This year’s Saturn Awards celebrating the films and television programs within genre entertainment will be live streamed by the premium OTT linear channel and app from Electric Entertainment, ElectricNOW, the official streaming partner of the Saturn Awards.
Other prestigious awards presented at the upcoming ceremony will be announced shortly.
Behold the spectacular fantasy feature films from prolific genius Jim Henson when the pop culture masterpieces LABYRINTH and THE DARK CRYSTAL are set to unleash globally on Digital on February 6, 2024 by Shout! Studios in collaboration with The Jim Henson Company. Movie enthusiasts and collectors will relish the definitive digital releases of LABYRINTH (starring David Bowie and Jennifer Connelly) and THE DARK CRYSTAL (starring Jim Henson, Kathryn Mullen, and Frank Oz), available for purchase and/or rent across major digital entertainment platforms around the world. Each movie boasts new digital key art and trailer. Whether reliving childhood memories or discovering these two ground-breaking movies for the first time, prepare to be spellbound as you embark on these mesmerizing cinematic journeys that will ignite your imagination like never before.
Moreover, LABYRINTH and THE DARK CRYSTAL will be available together in a digital bundle on select platforms for the first time, allowing loyal fans and movie collectors to own and enjoy both iconic movies.
Jim Henson masterfully created completely original fantastical worlds that transcend imagination – brimming with magic and mystery, complete with a host of iconic characters. Whether it is the world of Thra, or the Goblin King’s Labyrinth, these unforgettable realms reflect Henson’s unparalleled talent to bring the magical, the whimsical, the bizarre, and the extraordinary to life.
LABYRINTH
Produced by The Jim Henson Company and Lucasfilm Ltd. with creatures brought to life by Jim Henson’s Creature Shop, LABYRINTH was directed by Jim Henson, who worked closely with acclaimed artist and Conceptual Designer Brian Froud, and Executive Producer George Lucas to create a mesmerizing fantasy movie adventure.
LABYRINTH, starring David Bowie and Jennifer Connelly, was originally released in 1986. The film is an unforgettable fantasy adventure that follows Sarah Williams (Connelly) as she makes her way through the labyrinth of the Goblin King Jareth (Bowie) in search of her little brother Toby. A mainstay of the fantasy genre with its spectacular visual effects and ground-breaking animatronics, LABYRINTH is of special interest to David Bowie fans worldwide as the film contains original songs written and recorded by Bowie especially for the film.
THE DARK CRYSTAL
From the brilliant imagination of Jim Henson, this puppetry work of genius recounts the timeless tales of good versus evil, becoming a cult favorite around the world. Directed by Jim Henson and Frank Oz, the film features innovative animatronics and uniquely memorable characters created by Jim Henson’s Creature Shop™. Since its initial release in 1982, the film has earned a place in cinematic history as a masterpiece of fantasy and continues to reign as one of the must-see classics of its genre.
Travel back in time to the faraway planet of Thra where evil Skeksis are in control and the Gelfling Jen, the last of his kind, is sent on a quest by the peaceful Mystics to find the missing shard that will restore balance and heal the world.
Callsign: Trigger, the Osean Federation needs you to take to the skies. The fictional continent of Usean has fallen under conflict between the Osean Federation and the Kingdom of Erusea. Highly skilled pilots are needed once more as Bandai Namco Entertainment America Inc. deploys ACE COMBAT™ 7: SKIES UNKNOWN DELUXE EDITION to Nintendo Switch™ on July 11. With more than 5 million copies sold, the new Switch version faithfully recreates the thrilling experience and explosive action of the original game. Soar through an expanse of clouds over richly detailed terrain and landscapes with exhilarating speed. ACE COMBAT 7: SKIES UNKNOWN delivers intense dogfights and full 360-degree aerial combat, making it a must-have addition to any action game fan’s Switch library. For more information on the game, visit the official website.
The full content included in ACE COMBAT 7: SKIES UNKNOWN DELUXE EDITION:
ACE COMBAT 7: SKIES UNKNOWN base game
Downloadable content ” Three original aircraft sets” + “Three SP missions”
Part 3 “ACE COMBAT 7: SKIES UNKNOWN – ADFX-01 Morgan Set”
Part 4 “ACE COMBAT 7: SKIES UNKNOWN – Unexpected Visitor”
Part 5 “ACE COMBAT 7: SKIES UNKNOWN – Anchorhead Raid”
Part 6 “ACE COMBAT 7: SKIES UNKNOWN – Ten Million Relief Plan”
Bonus “Music Player Mode”
Playable Aircraft F-104C -Avril-
Playable Aircraft F-4E Phantom II
Three popular aircraft skins from the past series
8 popular emblems of the past series
The Nintendo Switch version of the game includes all original content and faithfully recreates the fast-paced action of the original. It also includes the game’s 2-8 player multiplayer combat, along with other features. Additional DLC not included in the Deluxe Edition is planned to be available to purchase after launch.
ACE COMBAT 7: SKIES UNKNOWN DELUXE EDITION releases exclusively as a digital title for Nintendo Switch in the Americas on July 11. The game is currently available to play on PlayStation®4, Xbox Series X|S, Xbox One, and PC via Steam®.
DJI, the global leader in civilian drones and innovative camera technology, today announced the launch of the new DJI Mic 2, setting a new benchmark in audio recording solutions. With DJI Mic 2, creators can expect an exceptional experience, marked by high-quality recording functions, user-friendly designs, and remarkable stability.
“DJI Mic 2 represents a leap forward in audio recording technology. We’ve combined high-quality recording functions, user-friendly designs, and noteworthy stability to empower content creators with the tools they need to capture extraordinary audio, no matter where their creativity takes them,” said Paul Pan, Senior Product Line Manager at DJI.
Pro Audio Recording Functions in Pocket-Size
At the heart of DJI Mic 2 lies the promise of capturing brilliance in different sounds. It’s equipped with omnidirectional recording capabilities, thoughtfully optimized for vocal clarity, ensuring that the audio content of users shines in various scenarios. Whether content creators are producing engaging vlogs, conducting insightful interviews, or recording in diverse environments, DJI Mic 2 guarantees that their audio is of high quality.
DJI Mic 2 also features intelligent noise-canceling technology1, a game-changer for content creators working in bustling urban areas or crowded rooms. This innovative feature effectively reduces environmental noise, delivering clear vocals and uninterrupted audio recordings. Regarding windy or fast-moving scenarios, DJI Mic 2 has included windscreen to lower wind noise, ensuring clean sound capture in windy outdoor scenarios.
As an added layer of protection for the user’s audio, DJI Mic 2 offers the Safety Track feature. It allows content creators to record a second track at -6dB alongside the primary audio track, safeguarding against unexpected audio level spikes. Even in the midst of audibly complicated environments such as rock concerts, DJI Mic 2 delivers balanced results with remarkable ease.
User-Friendly Design for a Seamless and Intuitive Experience
DJI Mic 2 is not just developed with technical advancement, but also designed with users in mind. Its sleek and smart aesthetic is elevated by a premium metal charging case that not only has a minimalistic appearance but also offers a newly added locking latch, which provides a secure and reliable solution to prevent accidental drops for peace of mind during use.
To suit the style and preferences of different users, DJI Mic 2 is available in two transmitter colors: Shadow Black and Pearl White2. Shadow Black adds a discreet, high-tech appearance to the Mic 2 setup, while Pearl White offers an elegant alternative for those seeking a light-tone colorway.
When it comes to getting started, DJI Mic 2 simplifies the process. The system is ready to use anytime, anywhere. Users can just open the charging case, and DJI Mic 2 will then spring to life, automatically pairing the receiver and transmitters while charging them. Additionally, DJI Mic 2 can be seamlessly connected to DJI Osmo Action 4, DJI Osmo Pocket 3 and smartphone devices3 via Bluetooth, while also offering hassle-free compatibility with various recording devices through USB-C, Lightning Adapters, as well as 3.5mm TRS analog output.
DJI Mic 2 also puts control at the fingertips of the user with its effortless touchscreen operation. A 1.1-inch OLED touchscreen paired with a precision dial provides quick access to critical information. Content creators will be able to adjust volume, gain, brightness, and more with ease, achieving the optimal audio setup smoothly.
With magnetic attachment for quick concealment, the transmitters feature a user-friendly clip-on design that simplifies the process of attaching them to clothing. DJI Mic 2 even offers dual-channel recording, allowing content creators to capture audio from two sources simultaneously, simplifying multi-source recording and enhancing efficiency during post-production.
To further expand the creative horizons of the user, DJI offers practical accessories4 such as the DJI Lavalier Mic and DJI Mic 2 Charging Case.
Stability and Reliability in Every Recording
Stability is a hallmark of DJI Mic 2, ensuring that the audio recordings of the user are consistently outstanding. DJI Mic 2 is equipped with 8GB of internal storage per transmitter, offering up to 14 hours of uncompressed 48kHz 24-bit audio recording5. This ensures that content creators can record for extended periods without worrying about storage constraints.
DJI Mic 2 stands out significantly due to its cutting-edge 32-bit float internal recording6 capability. This feature not only delivers high-quality recording but also adapts seamlessly to complex sound environments, capturing nuances of sounds, from quiet whispers to booming decibel levels. This level of flexibility provides greater reliability in erratic noise scenarios and offers more options for post-production fine-tuning.
When it comes to range and battery life, DJI Mic 2 shines. It offers an impressive maximum audio transmission range of up to 250 meters7 (820 ft.) in open, unobstructed environments without interference. This range caters to common scenarios such as live streaming, studio recording, and outdoor recording. Plus, each transmitter and receiver has a remarkable 6-hour operating time8, which can be extended to a generous 18 hours with the charging case, making it perfect for extended content creation sessions.
Price and Availability
The DJI Mic 2 is available to order from store.dji.com and authorized retail partners, with shipping starting today, in the following configurations:
The DJI Mic 2 (2 TX + 1 RX + Charging Case) retails for $349, and includes a DJI Mic 2 Receiver, two DJI Mic 2 Transmitters (Shadow Black), a DJI Mic 2 Charging Case, DJI Mic 2 Camera Audio Cable (3.5mm TRS), a DJI Mic 2 Mobile Phone Adapter (Type-C), a DJI Mic 2 Mobile Phone Adapter (Lightning), two DJI Mic 2 Windscreens, two DJI Mic 2 Clip Magnets, a DJI Mic USB-C Charging Cable and a DJI Mic 2 Carrying Bag.
The DJI Mic 2 (1 TX + 1 RX) retails for $219, and includes a DJI Mic 2 Receiver, a DJI Mic 2 Transmitter (Shadow Black), a DJI Mic 2 Camera Audio Cable (3.5mm TRS), a DJI Mic 2 Mobile Phone Adapter (Type-C), a DJI Mic 2 Mobile Phone Adapter (Lightning), a DJI Mic 2 Windscreen, a DJI Mic 2 Clip Magnet, a DJI Mic Splitter Charging Cable, and a DJI Mic 2 Carrying Pouch. The DJI Mic 2 Transmitter (Shadow Black) and DJI Mic 2 Transmitter (Pearl White) can also be purchased separately at $99 each. The DJI Lavalier Mic retails at $39 and DJI Mic 2 Charging Case retails at $69.
For more information about DJI Mic 2 and its remarkable features, please visit: https://www.dji.com/mic-2
SEGA® Europe Limited and The Creative Assembly Ltd, have today announced the High Tide update for Total War: PHARAOH. Introducing the ferocious Sea Peoples culture, this pack welcomes two new playable factions alongside their enigmatic leaders. With new campaign mechanics to exploit, units to command and gods to worship, are you ready to bring civilisation to its knees?
PLAY AS THE HARBINGERS OF THE BRONZE AGE COLLAPSE
The Sea Peoples are warring hordes of nomads who sail the Mediterranean to exploit the chaos of the Bronze Age Collapse. With the ancient empires of Egypt, Canaan and the Hittites descending into total war, they arrive on their troubled shores to fight, raze and conquer everything in sight. As a horde faction The Sea Peoples must stay on the war path to survive, and only through constant conquest can you sustain the Sherden and Peleset hordes and emerge victorious.
FACTION FOCUS: THE SHERDEN
Lead the Sherden horde as Iolaos, a young and determined explorer who has but one aim; to lead his warband to where the sun rises, razing and sacrificing everything in their path as a tribute to the gods.
Gameplay Mechanics
The Sherden are a nomadic, snowballing horde that rely on constant conquest to survive. Use the new Spoils of War mechanic to raze cities for extra resources, construct Nuraghe Camps to strengthen your armies on the campaign trail and use the new resource Eminence to establish your dominance over your fellow Sea Peoples tribes and absorb them into your horde.
New Units
Command a host of new units including Nuraghe Warriors capable of forming an armoured turtle-like Kelone formation to protect themselves as they advance, Harpooneers who hurl deadly barbed javelins at your enemies, and Sherden Archers who fire sulphur tipped arrows that set the ground on fire beneath your enemies’ feet.
FACTION FOCUS: THE PELESET
Sew the Bronze Age Collapse as Walwetes, the hulking patriarch leading our second faction, The Peleset. Taking to the sea after their empire was destroyed, The Peleset are in search of a new home and will build it atop the ruins of the ancient world if they must.
Gameplay Mechanics
The Peleset are a hybrid Nomadic/Settled horde that can both pitch camp and occupy cities on the campaign map. Spoils of War and Eminence are your friends as you embrace the unique challenge of balancing the need to stay on the warpath to survive with the need to settle, creating the foundations for a new Peleset empire to be forged in the furnace of the Bronze Age Collapse.
New Units
Command all new units including Oxen Carts, a dismountable chariot capable of flanking the enemy, delivering Peleset shock troops into the heat of battle. Peleset Marines; heroic warriors that can unleash volleys of javelins before getting into close combat, and Peleset Raiders; elite and aggressive infantry who move fast and hit hard.
This Friday there will be an invasion of big, silver saucers at Alamo Drafthouse Cinema locations nationwide – and all of them will be filled with FREE popcorn! Alamo Drafthouse will be slinging big bowls of freshly popped kernels and real clarified butter at every screening all day long on National Popcorn Day, January 19th. Just buy a ticket plus any other food or beverage item, and a silver bowl of hot, salty, buttery goodness is all yours. They’re not bottomless like Alamo Drafthouse’s regular popcorn bowls (sorry everyone) but they are free and delicious. Besides, the only thing better than a movie and popcorn is a movie and FREE popcorn. Browse showtimes and get tickets for National Popcorn Day HERE.
*Only valid 1/19/24 with ticket and $5 minimum food & beverage purchase, one bowl per tab, refills not included.
AVerMedia Technologies., a leader in digital audiovisual solutions, is pleased to announce the launch of its latest PCIe capture cards — the HDMI 2.1 Live Gamer 4K 2.1 (GC575) and Live Streamer ULTRA HD (GC571). These innovative devices cater to the diverse needs from sophisticated and entry-level streamers, complementing AVerMedia’s line of capture card solutions and positioning AVerMedia as a pioneering force in the industry.
After the successful launch of the HDMI 2.1 Live Gamer ULTRA 2.1 (GC553G2), AVerMedia introduces the PCIe version, Live Gamer 4K 2.1, offering users a more expansive range of choices. Michael Kuo, President and CEO of AVerMedia, stated, “Whether you’re seeking to play the latest 4K games, looking for HDMI 2.1 compatibility, or preferring PCIe connectivity, we’ve been continually expanding our capture card line to meet the needs of the streaming community.”
AVerMedia’s flagship Live Gamer 4K 2.1 (GC575) stands as the world’s premier consumer-grade HDMI 2.1 PCIe capture card. Engineered to revolutionize the streaming experience globally, it maximizes the potential of HDMI 2.1 technology. Boasting features like up to 4K144 pass-through HDR/VRR, the card ensures every gameplay moment is transmitted with breathtaking clarity and fluidity. Supporting up to 4K60 capture, it empowers streamers to capture their cherished gaming memories with unparalleled precision.
For those exploring the world of live streaming for the first time, the Live Streamer ULTRA HD (GC571) is designed to lower the entry barriers. It caters to individuals with a limited budget yet is pursuing high-quality 4K streaming and capturing. Aside from 4K streaming and capturing, the Live Streamer ULTRA HD (GC571) also offers user-friendly features, effortless operation, and low-profile PCB design, all while being affordable.
As a free and dedicated software to these capture cards, AVerMedia’s RECentral allows simultaneous streaming and broadcasting to multiple platforms like Twitch, YouTube, and Facebook. It can also effortlessly integrate with preferred third-party capturing and live-streaming platforms, providing a seamless experience for users.
Redefine the gaming and streaming experience, elevate gameplay, captivate audiences, and embrace future-proof streaming technology with AVerMedia’s Live Gamer 4K 2.1 (GC575) and Live Streamer ULTRA HD (GC571).
MicroProse is happy to announce that B-17 Flying Fortress : The Mighty 8th Redux will be out in Early Access on the 23rd of January.
Redux is the classic game remastered.
Feel the power of flying a 10-men crew on a B-17 over occupied Europe in WWII. Plan the mission, choose your men and take action in every post onboard, from pilot to bombardier and machine gunners. Get ready for a high-flying adventure in this all-time classic remake.
How does it play?
Unleash the might of the B-17 Flying Fortress: Experience the adrenaline rush of flying through relentless anti-aircraft fire and engage in intense aerial combat against Nazi warplanes. Become part of the legendary crew and relive the challenges faced at 15,000 feet with only a thin layer of steel between life and death.
Take control of various roles, including Pilot, Co-Pilot, Navigator, Bombadier/Chin Turret Gunner, Radio Operator, Engineer/Top Turret Gunner, Port Waist Gunner, Starboard Waist Gunner, Ball Gunner, and Tail Gunner. From take-off to landing, from navigating across a realistically mapped Europe to operating the radio, experience the intensity of war from multiple perspectives.
Key Features
Take Control of Different Crew Roles aboard a B-17
Historical Campaigns
Quick Start Missions
Training Missions
Historical Missions
Updated visuals and interface
Redux: The same experience was remastered with the original engine upgraded to support the functionality present in Directx 12. Working on the redux will give the developers the opportunity to look back and learn in order to push forward with future Flying Fortress titles.
The dark-fantasy action-adventure first-person shooter GRAVEN will leave Early Access with a 1.0 release next week, on January 23, 2024 via Steam, GOG, and Epic Games Store.
A faithful priest of the Orthogonal order, exiled unto death for a crime in defense of another, you live again in a small boat, adrift in a swamp. A stranger ferries you to solid ground and bestows upon you vague instructions, along with a mysterious staff and book. Go forth, pious priest, alleviate suffering, uncover deceptions, and smash the eldritch perversions encroaching upon reality itself.
A marriage between modern development tools and techniques with a stark late 90s aesthetic bring the action first person puzzler GRAVEN to life, featuring character designs by Chuck Jones (Duke Nukem 3D, Half-Life) and the voice talent of Stephan Weyte (Blood, Fire Emblem, Dusk) in a dark yet distinct medieval fantasy experience.
GRAVEN embraces righteous fury with its 1.0 launch via Steam, GOG, and Epic Games Store on January 23, 2024.
SQUARE ENIX® today released a new trailer for its eagerly awaited RPG and the most anticipated game of 2024 as crowned by The Game Awards – FINAL FANTASY™ VII REBIRTH.
The new trailer entitled “Destined for Rebirth,” sets up the conflict between Cloud and his companions, including Tifa, Aerith and Barret, and archnemesis Sephiroth. The video debuts alongside several new screenshots and renders for in-game characters and locales. FINAL FANTASY VII REBIRTH is launching globally Feb. 29 exclusively for the PlayStation®5 (PS5®) console.
In addition to providing new details about the planet-spanning threat posed by Sephiroth, “Destined for Rebirth” showcases epic moments including the fight against the Terror of the Deep boss, the Junon ceremony and Nibelheim Incident, plus first glimpes at newly imagined creatures and characters like the Midgardsormr.
