Monthly Movie Madness: January 2015

5. The Wedding Ringer

The Players: Director: Jeremy Garelick (debut) Writer: Jay Lavender (The Break-Up, Missing Links), Will Packer (debut) Starring: Kevin Hart (Ride Along, Top Five), Josh Gad (Frozen, Love And Other Drugs), Kaley Cuoco-Sweeting (The Big Bang Theory, Hop).

Synopsis: Doug Harris (Josh Gad) is a lovable but socially awkward groom-to-be with a problem: he has no best man. With less than two weeks to go until he marries the girl of his dreams (Kaley Cuoco-Sweeting), Doug is referred to Jimmy Callahan (Kevin Hart), owner and CEO of Best Man, Inc., a company that provides flattering best men for socially challenged guys in need. What ensues is a hilarious wedding charade as they try to pull off the big con, and an unexpected budding bromance between Doug and his fake best man Jimmy.

Why you should watch it: It's no secret that movies are often released in January to die, a few franchises have been able to pull of the January release date to success (Underworld and Taken) but for the most part it's meant to have movies flop. Which is why it's no surprise that in the last 5 years only one January release has topped 100 million domestically, and that was last year's Ride Along. So Sony is hoping Kevin Hart can lead another 100+ million movie that opens in January. But it'll be tough, using the same 5 year time frame and ignoring Ride Along the highest grossing comedy was 2011's No Strings Attached. This film looks cliched but it looks fun as well, I'm betting No Strings Attached is the floor for gross but I don't think it touched Ride Alongs 134 million total.

4. Paddington

The Players: Director: Paul King (Bunny And The Bull, Come Fly With Me) Writer: Paul King (debut) Starring: Hugh Bonneville (The Monuments Men, The Muppets: Most Wanted), Sally Hawkins (Happy Go Lucky, Godzilla), Jim Broadbent (Robots, Harry Potter), Nicole Kidman (The Golden Compass, Happy Feet).

Synopsis: From the beloved novels by Michael Bond and producer David Heyman (HARRY POTTER), PADDINGTON tells the story of the comic misadventures of a young Peruvian bear who travels to the city in search of a home. Finding himself lost and alone, he begins to realize that city life is not all he had imagined - until he meets the kindly Brown family who read the label around his neck that says "Please look after this bear. Thank you," and offer him a temporary haven. It looks as though his luck has changed until this rarest of bears catches the eye of a museum taxidermist.

Why you should watch it: Curiously this movie was moved into January from it's original Christmas Day release day. Perhaps it feared competition from Into The Woods, Annie and Night At The Museum. Or perhaps it was that whole Paddington's voice debacle (Colin Firth was originally the voice before being replaced in July after they (Firth included) decided Firth wasn't the right voice). With no family films on the horizon and Annie and Night At The Museum coming up under projections Paddington could do big business assuming Into The Woods doesn't hold up well in the long run after doing good business on Christmas and the following week. The reviews are spectacular and ever Firth himself said after the split that this film would be tremendous, unfortunately it'll miss out on awards now that it won't open in 2014.

3. Taken 3

The Players: Director: Olivier Megaton (Taken 2, The Transporter 3) Writers: Luc Besson (Lucy, Taken), Robert Mark Kamen (The Fugitive, The Karate Kid) Starring: Liam Neeson (Batman Begins, Non-Stop), Maggie Grace (Knight & Day, Twilight: Breaking Dawn), Famke Janssen (X-Men, Hansel & Gretal: Witch Hunters), Forest Whitaker (The Butler, Repo Men).

Synopsis: Liam Neeson returns as ex-covert operative Bryan Mills, whose reconciliation with his ex-wife is tragically cut short when she is brutally murdered. Consumed with rage, and framed for the crime, he goes on the run to evade the relentless pursuit of the CIA, FBI and the police. For one last time, Mills must use his "particular set of skills," to track down the real killers, exact his unique brand of justice, and protect the only thing that matters to him now - his daughter.

Why you should watch it: Sure the Taken movies get stale, the 2nd instalment was a little meh but last year's Non-Stop showed that people still like to watch Neeson kick ass. Plus the trailer for part 3 shows a whole different angle for the franchise which has saved quite a few stale franchises recently (The Hangover immediately comes to mind).

2. Blackhat

The Players: Director: Michael Mann (Collateral, Public Enemies) Writer: Michael Mann (Ali, Heat) Starring: Chris Hemsworth (Thor, Star Trek), Viola Davis (The Help, Ender's Game)

Synopsis: Set within the world of global cybercrime, Legendary's Blackhat follows a furloughed convict and his American and Chinese partners as they hunt a high-level cybercrime network from Chicago to Los Angeles to Hong Kong to Jakarta.

Why you should watch it: Hemsworth doesn't get a ton of time to do standalone projects between all the Marvel and Star Trek stuff, but when he does it tends to be great (Rush, Cabin In The Woods, Red Dawn) add in Davis and a script by Mann who generally takes his time on passion projects such as this and this is bound to be good.

1. Mortdecai

The Players: Director: David Koepp (Premium Rush, Ghost Town) Writer: Eric Aronson (On The Line) Starring: Johnny Depp (Pirates Of The Caribbean, Into The Woods), Gwyneth Paltrow (Iron Man, Contagion), Ewan McGregor (Jack The Giant Slayer, Robots), Olivia Munn (The Newsroom, Magic Mike), Paul Bettany (The Avengers, The Da Vinci Code), Jeff Goldblum (Independence Day, The Grand Budapest Hotel).

Synopsis: Juggling some angry Russians, the British Mi5, his impossibly leggy wife and an international terrorist, debonair art dealer and part time rogue Charlie Mortdecai (Johnny Depp) must traverse the globe armed only with his good looks and special charm in a race to recover a stolen painting rumoured to contain the code to a lost bank account filled with Nazi gold.

Why you should watch it: I realize it's been a while since Depp was truly great in a movie (though I'm yet to see Into The Woods, I'd have to say it's Alice In Wonderland in 2010) this seems like the perfect chance to get back on the horse and Lionsgate is expecting big things from this film as they have possible sequels lined up and moved the release date up 2 weeks to a much easier weekend to dominate the box office (it'll be up against a J-Lo thriller... Yawn) and avoids direct competition from Spongebob Squarepants.

Top 10 Countdown: December 27, 2014

10. One Direction - Steal My Girl
Last week: 10.

9. Fireworks - Run, Brother, Run
Last week: 5.

8. Aaron West And The Roaring Twenties - Our Apartment
Last week: NEW!

7. Crystalyne - 6 In The Morning
Last week: NEW!

6. The Ready Set - Freakin' Me Out
Last week: 8.

5. Set It Off - Why Worry
Last week: 6.

4. Seaway - Your Best Friend
Last week: 4.

3. Driver Friendly - Everything Gold
Last week: 3.

2. Forever Came Calling - Defenseless
Last week: 1.

1. Patent Pending - Hey Mario
Last week: 2.

Special: Christmas CD

Good news kids! It's Christmas so we get another volume of the Christmas compilation "What's A Partridge? What's A Pear Tree?" This year it's volume 7, for previous volumes click here. Check out the download link (I own none of the music obviously) below as well as the tracklisting.

What's A Partridge? What's A Pear Tree? Volume 7

http://www.mediafire.com/download/nofv0harg5cgnyj/Volume+7.rar

1. The Ready Set – I Don’t Wanna Spend Another Christmas Without You
2. Hawk Nelson – The Holly And The Ivy
3. I Can Make A Mess – Please Come Home For Christmas
4. Sparks The Rescue – Christmas Brings Me Down
5. Man Overboard – Father Christmas
6. Relient K – I Celebrate The Day
7. All Time Low – Fool’s Holiday
8. Jimmy Eat World – Last Christmas
9. MXPX – You’re The One I Miss (This Christmas)
10. Hey Monday – Oh, Holy Night
11. Jesse McCartney – Winter Wonderland
12. From The Top – Hot Chocolate Stains And Candy Canes
13. Adalie – I Won’t Be Home For Christmas
14. Rancid – Christmas Eve (She Got Up And Left Me)
15. June – A Wonderful Christmas Time
16. Artist Vs. Poet – Merry Christmas, Happy Holidays
17. The Salads – Santa Claus Is Coming To Town
18. Allison Weiss – December
19. The Fold – This Christmas
20. Count Your Blessings – A Nutty Christmas

Top 10 Countdown: December 20, 2014

10. One Direction - Steal My Girl
Last week: NEW!

9. Fall Out Boy - Centuries
Last week: 9.

8. The Ready Set - Freakin' Me Out
Last week: 10.

7. Take Me To The Pilot - What They Ask For
Last week: 2.

6. Set It Off - Why Worry
Last week: 7.

5. Fireworks - Run, Brother, Run
Last week: 5.

4. Seaway - Your Best Friend
Last week: 6.

3. Driver Friendly - Everything Gold
Last week: 4.

2. Patent Pending - Hey Mario
Last week: 3.

1. Forever Came Calling - Defenseless
Last week: 1.

Comic Shop Corner: December 2014

Hello everybody and welcome to a very late edition of Comic Shop Corner for December 2014... So I know you're wondering: "Donny, why so late?" well my friends there's not a whole lot happening this month to talk about as far as new comics go... Luckily Free Comic Book Day has given us some treats to talk about so let's talk.

Firstly the one and only Donny Approved Series this month is Secret Six from DC Comics, I recently did a write-up on it over at Big B Comics so you can check that out here. Now onto the exciting news from Free Comic Book Day 2015, which will be taking place on comic book stores across North America on Saturday May 2, 2015!

Critically acclaimed comic artist and illustrator Amanda Conner, who's been in the business for over 20 years and is most recognised for her DC Comics series work on Powergirl, Before Watchmen: Silk Spectre, and Harley Quinn, is creating the FCBD 2015 T-shirt with help from comic book colourist Paul Mounts who has created memorable artwork in the Before Watchmen: Silk Spectre series and Marvel's Ultimates books. Amanda's FCBD artwork represents the diversity of comic book readers and how they are brought together by a love for reading great stories in a fun, unique art form.

"I remembered what many of us comic book readers actually are… frustrated super-heroes, I thought about making a piece of art that would resemble a super-hero insignia. Hopefully when you see it from a distance, that’s what it looks like." - Amanda Conner

You can find Amanda's artwork on T-shirts for men, women and children at your local comic book store (Just let them know you want it) as well as on commemorative posters and all proceeds from the sales go to support Free Comic Book Day's marketing and promotional efforts.

Note: Due to this posts length no artwork was included as it bogged down the load time. But for more information on Free Comic Book Day 2015 and the comics covers head on over to www.freecomicbookday.com

Now for the moment you've all been waiting for... All 50 comics you can get for free at this year's Free Comic Book Day!

Gold Sponsor Comics:

Bob's Burgers FCBD Edition

Publisher: Dynamite Entertainment

(W) Mike Olsen & Various (A) Bradley C. Rader & Various

Bob's Burgers, the hit TV show created by Loren Bouchard, is now a comic book! The Belcher family - parents Bob and Linda, and their children Tina, Gene, and Louise - appear in this special Free Comic Book Day edition that collects the "Best Of" in-canon stories from Dynamite's first-ever Bob's Burgers comic book series. Thrill to Tina's Friend Fiction, Louise's Unsolved Mysteries and Curious Curiosities, Gene Belcher Presents: The Musical, and more! It's an all-ages extravaganza that captures the feel of Bob's Burgers perfectly - because it's a comic 100% created by show writers and animators!

FCBD 2015 Bongo Free-For-All

Publisher: BONGO COMICS

(W/A/CA) Matt Groening

Get in line for the foremost Free Comic Book Day four-colour giveaway of the year! When Bart brings one of Professor Frink's recent discoveries to school, it leads to some hair-raising hilarity Then, Lisa finds a doorway to an ancient past, CBG gets a hip -new girlfriend, and Homer tries his hand at some home improvement. And much more.

Boom! Studios 10th Anniversary FCBD Special

Publisher: BOOM! STUDIOS

(W) Madéleine Flores & Various (A) Brooke A. Allen & Various

2015 is BOOM! Studios' Tenth Anniversary year, and to help us celebrate we've gathered short stories from several current and new all-ages titles for Free Comic Book Day. From Archaia's Mouse Guard, Jim Henson's Labyrinth, and new title Iscariot; KaBOOM!'s Garfield, Peanuts, Regular Show, and a new Adventure Time with Fionna & Cake story; and BOOM! Box's Lumberjanes, Munchkin, and Help Us! Great Warrior, there's something in this free, 48-page issue for everyone!

Dark Circle Comics FCBD Edition

Publisher: DARK CIRCLE COMICS

(W) Duane Swierczynski & Various (A) Michael Gaydos & Various (CA) Francesco Francavilla

THE BLACK HOOD! THE FOX! THE SHIELD! Get in on the ground floor of Dark Circle Comics and experience the cinematic and creator-driven reinventions of these iconic properties. Who is the new Shield? How did the Black Hood come to be? Can things get more unpredictable for The Fox? Learn the secrets of the Dark Circle universe from the creators themselves via sneak peeks at the new series, creator interviews and a first glance at the next Dark Circle series - all held together by an eye-popping cover from Afterlife with Archie artist Francesco Francavilla!

Fight Club/The Goon/The Strain

Publisher: DARK HORSE COMICS

(W) Chuck Palahniuk & Various (A) Cameron Stewart & Various (CA) David Mack

Dark Horse Comic's most thrilling FCBD to date . . . Chuck Palahniuk and Cameron Stewart premiere Fight Club! Eric Powell with all-new tragedy in The Goon! And Guillermo del Toro presents an all-new chapter from The Strain! Need we say more?

FCBD 2015 DC Comics Gold Book 

Publisher: DC

Top Secret! Information will be revealed at a later date.

Doctor Who FCBD Edition

Publisher: TITAN

(W) Robbie Morrison & Various (A) Elena Casagrande & Various

Take a blistering trip through time and space with three stunning ALL-NEW short stories featuring Tenth Doctor, Eleventh Doctor and the brand-new Twelfth Doctor by the ongoing DOCTOR WHO creative teams - PLUS a sneak peek of the TOP SECRET Summer 2015 event! Be the first to get a hint of the epic that will shake the Doctor to his core! It's an unmissable read for fans, and the perfect primer for anyone looking to jump on board the TARDIS!

Perfect Square Presents Pokemon

Publisher: PERFECT SQUARE

(W) Hidenori Kusaka (A) Various

All your favourite Pokémon game characters jump out of the screen into the pages of this action-packed comic! Legendary Pokémon Xerneas and Yveltal 's battle against each other is destroying Vaniville Town. Can X and Y save the town in Pokémon X or Y?!

Bonus Feature: More action in Pokémon Adventures and Pokémon Adventures Black and White!

Savage Dragon Legacy #1

Publisher: IMAGE COMICS

(W/A/CA) Erik Larsen

The generational saga of Savage Dragon reaches a new milestone as Malcolm Dragon graduates high school and follows his father's footsteps to the Chicago Police Department. Every young new officer has a lot to live up to, but for the son of a world famous figure as renowned as he is reviled, navigating the world of law enforcement is especially challenging. The cost of failure is high in a city becoming more dangerous by the day: Can Malcolm step out of his father's shadow and become the hero Chicago needs, or is he doomed to make the same mistakes?

Secret Wars #1

Publisher: MARVEL COMICS

Prepare yourself for the final days of the Marvel Universe as you know it as the march to the biggest comic event of the year continues! From the ashes of a decimated cosmos rises...Battleworld! Amid the strange, patchwork realm, refugees from thousands of obliterated universes struggle for survival. Even if they can endure the horrors of Battleworld - the home they knew has been destroyed! Time has run out, and the opening salvo of Secret Wars has been fired. But can anything restore the Marvel Universe that once was?

Spongebob Freestyle Funnies 2015

Publisher: UNITED PLANKTON PICTURES

(W/A) Graham Anable (CA) Gregg Schigiel, Rick Neilsen

This year's SpongeBob Comics FCBD offering features a 22-page story by Boxtrolls director and Grickle cartoonist Graham Annable. In "Tangy!" Plankton's new special sauce made from jellyfish jelly has strange effects on SpongeBob and Bikini Bottom's residents. The only one unaffected, the only one who can save them all, is a very reluctant Squidward. Plus more undersea sequential stories by James Kochalka, Maris Wicks, Gregg Schigiel. and other awesome aquatic artists!

Transformers: Robots In Disguise #0

Publisher: IDW PUBLISHING

(W) John Barber, Tom Scioli (A) Priscilla Tramontano, Tom Scioli (CA) Priscilla Tramontano

OPTIMUS PRIME is gone-and DECEPTICONS are on the loose! It's up to BUMBLEBEE and an elite crew of AUTOBOTS to track them down before their rampage spreads across Earth! TRANSFORMERS comics have never been hotter, and the excitement spreads to this all-original comic inspired by the all-new animated series! Plus: previews of IDW and Hasbro unbelievable publishing slate for 2015, including an exclusive TRANSFORMERS VS. G.I. JOE strip!

Silver Sponsor Comics

FCBD 2015 2000 AD Special

Publisher: REBELLION / 2000AD

(W) Matt Smith & Various (A) Norm Breyfogle & Various

The galaxy's greatest Eisner-nominated SF anthology returns to Free Comic Book Day with a 48 page zarjaz line-up of stories. In Through the Out Door, a brand new story from Matt Smith and Norm Breyfogle, Judge Dredd uses the iron fist of the law to settle a block dispute; in 3000 AD some jobs are murder, as proved by The Traveller from Mick McMahon; galactic frontiersman Ajax Bloodthirsty meets his match on the astronomical object of oblivion known as the Death Rock in a new tale from Ben Willsher and Barry Krishna; the Grand Master of Termight is sickened to find that his final resting place has been defiled by the legendary alien freedom fighter, Nemesis the Warlock in Tomb of Torquemada by Pat Mills and Kevin O'Neill; wizened master of the occult, Doctor Sin returns to pass on his mantle (and battle a demon) in Don't Call It A Comeback by Rob Williams and Luca Pizzari; pilot of the future, Dan Dare, discovers an alien satellite in Star Slayer by Dave Gibbons and Gerry-Finley Day; Celtic warrior Sláine acquaints more enemies with his axe in A Simple Killing by Pat Mills and Simon Davis; Judge Dredd upholds the law in some classic Dredd newspaper strips by John Wagner, Alan Grant and Ron Smith; and Prepare your mind to be melted by Tharg's Alien Invasions from supreme craz-o-naut Henry Flint. If this wasn't enough each strip comes with a FREE digital story attached!

And Then Emily Was Gone #0

Publisher: COMIXTRIBE

(W) John Lees (A) Iain Laurie (CA) Ryan Stegman

A chilling prelude to the cult horror sensation, AND THEN EMILY WAS GONE! Bonnie Shaw is a terrifying creature of Scottish folklore who would grant parents their hearts' desire... in exchange for their child. Young Billy McTaggart has nothing to fear from Ol' Bonnie, as his mother and father love him, don't they? DON'T THEY?! Featuring a cover by superstar artist Ryan Stegman (Inhumans, Wolverine.)

Avengers #1

Publisher: MARVEL COMICS

WHAT BETTER WAY TO CELEBRATE FREE COMIC BOOK DAY THEN BY ASSEMBLING EARTH'S MIGHTIEST-AND MOST POPULAR-HEROES?! Iron Man! Captain America! Thor! Black Widow! Hawkeye! Hulk! Vision! Everyone's favourite heroes take on a dangerous new threat!

Bodie Troll FCBD Edition

Publisher: REBELLION / 2000AD

(W/A/CA) Jay P. Fosgitt

With a mix of playfully irreverent humour, attention-grabbing art and incredible heart, BODIE TROLL is a perfect first comic to give to a non-comic-reader of any age. In an all-new exclusive adventure, things turn ugly for cute BODIE TROLL when he gets hijacked into that most agonising of events - a little girl's tea party! Plus, an all-new adventure from the world of DRONE and previews of 2015 Red 5 favourites and new faces.

Captain Canuck #0

Publisher: CHAPTER HOUSE PUBLISHING INC

(W/A) Kalman Andrasofszky & Various

Captain Canuck is a hero born in battle, tested in war, and granted the choice of how to use his incredible powers and advanced technology, which could alter the fate of the world. Tom Evans is a brave but troubled Canadian soldier. When he and his brother Michael gain superpowers from an alien artifact, they both must work through a lifetime of differences to ensure their gifts are used for the betterment of all humankind. Thrust into battle by Equilibrium, a fledgling intervention agency, Tom must find his way as figurehead and hero Captain Canuck to save humanity- and his brother's soul- from the machinations of Mr. Gold... and even more dangerous forces that lurk in the shadows. The complete reboot of the classic comic book hero featuring words and art by Kalman Andrasofszky, George Freeman and Ed Brisson, premieres with #0 on FCBD and the ongoing monthly later in May 2015. Don't miss out!

Defend Comics FCBS 2015 Edition

Publisher: COMIC BOOK LEGAL DEFENSE FUND

(W/A) Larry Marder, Dan Parent (CA) Dean Trippe

For over 25 years, the CBLDF has fought to protect your right to read, and that crusade continues with this light-hearted look at a serious topic. DEFEND COMICS is a sampler of the great YA comics available, and explores the censorship of comics with some of today's most talented creators!

Comics Festival FCBD Edition

Publisher: COMICS FESTIVAL

(W/A) Various

It's a Comics Festival! Continuing the tradition of featuring all-new short stories by some of the greatest comics creators in Canada! A wonderful showcase for existing and forthcoming comics & graphic novels! Not to be missed!

Avatar: The Last Airbender/Plants Vs. Zombies/Bandette

Publisher: DARK HORSE COMICS
(W) Gene Luen Yang, Paul Tobin (A) Carla Speed McNeil & Various (CA) Carla Speed McNeil
All-ages action, fantasy, and humour! All-new stories that make great entry points to new worlds! Gene Luen Yang and Carla Speed McNeil deliver an Avatar: The Last Airbender adventure! Dr. Zomboss and Crazy Dave clash in a new Plants vs. Zombies battle! And the crafty Bandette stars in a tale of her own!

FCBD 2015 DC Comics Silver Book

Publisher: DC

Top Secret! Information will be revealed at a later date.

Grimm Fairy Tales Wonderland FCBD Edition

Publisher: ZENESCOPE ENTERTAINMENT INC

Zenescope has published over 100 Wonderland comics and spinoff comics since 2007. Now this special Free Comic Book Day offering will give readers a chance to jump on board the incredible mind-warping horror series that will leave you wanting more. Travel down the rabbit hole and rediscover the madness!

Cleopatra In Space FCBD Edition

Publisher: GRAPHIX

(W/A/CA) Mike Maihack

When a young Cleopatra (yes, that Cleopatra) finds a mysterious tablet that zaps her to the far, really far future, she learns of an ancient prophecy that says she is destined to save the galaxy from the tyrannical rule of the evil Xaius Octavian.

Gronk: A Monster's Story FCBD Edition

Publisher: ACTION LAB ENTERTAINMENT

(W/A/CA) Katie Cook

Gronk is a monster...and not a very good one! Follow Gronk's continuing adventures as she learns about the world around her from her "teacher", Dale, in this all-new Gronk story from fan favourite Katie Cook!

Hatter M. Love Of Wonder FCBD Edition

Publisher: AUTOMATIC PICTURES
(W) Frank Beddor, Liz Cavalier (A) Sami Makkonen (CA) Vincent Proce
Looking Glasses shatter as heroes and villains from Wonderland arrive to aid or block Hatter in his quest to find Alyss. Hatter's reunion with his brother Dalton leads to an epic showdown as saviour meets assassin in the struggle for Wonderland's future!

FCBD 2015 Hip Hop Family Tree Three-In-One

Publisher: FANTAGRAPHICS BOOKS
(W) Ed Piskor, Dash Shaw (A) Ed Piskor & Various (CA) Ed Piskor
Featuring Ed Piskor's Hip Hop Family Tree series and Dash Shaw's Cosplayers! Piskor's half features excerpts from all three existing HHFT volumes, plus the Rob Liefeld/Spike Lee commercial adaptation and exclusive pinups by R Crumb, Scottie Young, Jim Rugg, Ben Marra, and more...! Shaw's side delivers an all-new, 24-page issue of his thoughtful and funny exploration of human endeavor and social interaction as seen through the lives of two cosplayers. Enjoy the works of two of the great contemporary graphic novelists of their generation! With exclusive wraparound cover by Piskor.

I.C.E. Black Out

Publisher: 12 GAUGE COMICS LLC
(W) Doug Wagner, Ron Marz (A) Daniel Hillyard, Nelson Blake (CA) Jason Pearson
When a group of Chechen mercenaries attack New Orleans, ICE agents Cole and Ezra must stop them before they can complete their mission to destroy a main hub of the US power grid. To keep these murdering psychopaths from achieving their goal, Cole must let go of his fear and unleash his true self. As an added bonus, this FCBD issue includes an extended preview of the next instalment of critically acclaimed anthology THE RIDE, from writer Ron Marz (Green Lantern) and artist Nelson Blake (Witchblade)!

Kodansha Comics Sampler

Publisher: KODANSHA COMICS
(W/A) Various (CA) Hajime Isayama
If you aren't reading Attack on Titan, you're missing out on the biggest manga and anime phenomenon to sweep the world in years. But don't worry, now you have the chance to see what all the fuss is about with an excerpt from the first volume, along with samples from other top manga series, including Fairy Tail, The Seven Deadly Sins, Noragami, and more!

Lady Justice #1

Publisher: SUPER GENIUS
(W) C. J. Henderson (A) Daniel Brereton & Various (CA) Michael Netzer & Various
Back in print for the first time in two decades! Lady Justice FCBD edition reprints issue #1 of Neil Gaiman's lost comics classic.

Legendary Comics Sampler

Publisher: LEGENDARY COMICS
Working with industry-leading talent such as Grant Morrison, Frazer Irving, Matt Wagner, Simon Bisley, Judd Winick, Geoff Shaw, Jonathan Hennessey and Shane Davis, we've created an ever-growing library of thrilling sagas including Annihilator, Epochalypse, A Town Called Dragon, The Harvester, The Tower Chronicles: DreadStalker and more, alongside cinematic tie-ins such as Godzilla: Awakeningand the best-selling Pacific Rim: Tales from Year Zero. Join us this Free Comic Book Day as we unveil an exclusive first look at the exciting next chapter of Legendary Comics.

March Grand Prix

Publisher: CAPSTONE PRESS
(W/A/CA) Kean Soo
A Free Comic Book Day 2015 sneak peek of the new, turbo-charged graphic novel by Kean Soo, author of the award-winning series JELLABY! March Hare wants to be the fastest and furriest race car driver around. But first, this rabbit racer must prove his skills at the speedway, on the streets, and in the desert. With pedal-to-the-metal illustrations and full-throttle action, MARCH GRAND PRIX is sure to be a winner! Featuring a full tank of bonus materials: creator Q & A, pinup art, and much more.

Mercury Heat Debut

Publisher: AVATAR PRESS INC
(W) Kieron Gillen (A/CA) Omar Francia

Kieron Gillen blasts into Free Comic Book Day with an exclusive preview introduction to his all-new sci-fi series, Mercury Heat!  Over the last few years, Gillen's work has gained a massive following from titles like Uber, The Wicked and the Divine, and Iron Man.  Now Gillen takes you to Mercury, a slow turning planet where you can outrun the sunrise.  Along with the blistering heat it brings.  This is the new frontier of space, where humanity's insatiable need for energy is being fueled by Mercury.  It's a tough environment and it attracts a rough crowd.  So Luiza is bringing her own heat as a cop on Mercury, since she's just a bit too intense to be one on Earth.   This special issue features the first chapter of this ongoing saga, a special introduction to the World of Mercury Heat, and a look at the ships, designs, and making of this epic. The future is here with this primer and first chapter of 2015's biggest sci-fi title!

Motorcycle Samurai FCBD Edition

Publisher: TOP SHELF PRODUCTIONS
(W/A/CA) Chris Sheridan
Look hard into the storm clouds. You may yet see her, mounted on her electric steed, streaking past. The last hero of the West. THE MOTORCYCLE SAMURAI! It's been called "the new benchmark for indie digital comics." Now discover the mad genius of THE MOTORCYCLE SAMURAI for yourself, as Chris Sheridan does the unthinkable: brings his creation to print! Top Shelf celebrates FREE COMIC BOOK DAY with 24 pages of full-colour action, whetting appetites around the world for the future release of the MOTORCYCLE SAMURAI graphic novel. Now saddle up and let's ride!

FCBD 2015 Overstreet Comic Book Marketplace

Publisher: GEMSTONE PUBLISHING
(W) Robert M. Overstreet, J. C. Vaughn
When Action Comics #1 sells for $3.2 million, Incredible Hulk #1 sells for $326,000, the original art for Wolverine's first brief appearance sells for $657,000, and when cosplay has exploded to unparallelled heights, it's time for a look inside the market. The Free Comic Book Day 2015 issue of Overstreet's Comic Book Marketplace from the team behind The Overstreet Comic Book Price Guide and the new Overstreet "How To" series is a perfect introduction to the fun and history of comic book collecting.

FCBD 2015 The Phantom Special

Publisher: HERMES PRESS
(A) Bill Lignante & Various
The Phantom, the grand-daddy of costumed heroes celebrates Free Comic Book Day 2015 with a volume showcasing stories by some of the greatest artists to ever create tales for this ground-breaking title featuring The Ghost Who Walks.  This 32 page book will feature work from the Gold Key and King Phantom comics created by Bill Lignante; from the Charlton Phantom comics created by Jim Aparo and Don Newton and will offer samples of the newest Phantom story created by Peter David and Sal Velluto. Hermes Press' Phantom FDBD issue will also offer bonus material and tons of surprises!

Rabbids FCBD Edition

Publisher: PAPERCUTZ
(W) Thitaume (A/CA) Romain Pujol
Spinning Out of the hit videogame and TV series, the Rabbids are taking over FCBD. Their hilarious antics are sure to entertain fans of all ages!

Sonic The Hedgehog/Mega Man World's Unite Prelude

Publisher: ARCHIE COMIC PUBLICATIONS
(W) Ian Flynn (A) Gary Martin & Various (CA) Evan Stanley & Various
"Worlds Unite: PRELUDE" - It's TWO free comic books in ONE! Just in time for the start of the ALL-NEW epic Sonic the Hedgehog and Mega Man crossover event, "Worlds Unite," comes a primer issue exclusively for Free Comic Book Day! The road to "Unite" began in the history-making "Worlds Collide" storyline, continued in 2013's "DAWN OF X" storyline, and once again our heroes must meet-Mega Man's journey chronicled on one side, and Sonic the Hedgehog's on the other! This is the must-have primer for the biggest comic book event of 2015-as two video game icons must come together... or risk dying alone! Featuring art from both Sonic and Mega Man comic book fame!

FCBD 2015 Chakra The Invincible

Publisher: GRAPHIC INDIA
(W) Stan Lee & Various (A) Jeevan Kang & Various (CA) Jeevan Kang
Based on the animated shorts seen on Angry Birds ToonsTV with over 25 Million views worldwide, 'Chakra The Invincible' is the latest superhero from legendary creator, Stan Lee, co-creator of Spider-Man, X-Men, The Avengers, X-Men, Iron Man, and more. This all-ages comic features short stories of Chakra The Invincible for kids and superhero fans of all ages.

Steampunk Goldilocks FCBD Edition

Publisher: ANTARCTIC PRESS
(W/A) Rod Espinosa
This new Goldilocks may find that the three bears' boilers are too hot or too cold, that their armour plating is too big or too small, or that their mechs' piston-cycling is too hard or soft...but when Rod Espinosa brings you yet another classic fairy tale spun steampunk style, the results will be just right!

Street Fighter Super Combo Special

Publisher: UDON ENTERTAINMENT CORP
(W) Matt Moylan (A) Jeffrey Chamba Cruz & Various (CA) Joe Ng
Five generations of World Warriors collide in this epic new Street Fighter story! Ryu, Charlie, Crimson Viper, Ibuki, and more put their martial arts skills to the test as they battle across the globe. A self-contained story, perfect for newcomers to the Street Fighter universe, or longtime fans!

The Stuff Of Legend FCBD Edition

Publisher: REBELLION / 2000AD
(W) Mike Raicht & Various (A) Charles Paul Wilson, Alex Eckman-Lawn (CA) Mike Raicht
Th3rd World Studios is proud to announce the triumphant return of The New York Times bestselling series, THE STUFF OF LEGEND. Left scattered across the Dark in the aftermath of the Boogeyman's deceit, our band of Toys must pick up the pieces or risk losing their boy forever in this Preview of The Stuff of Legend, Volume 5 - A Call to Arms. Also featured is a preview of the brand new all-ages original graphic novel series being hailed as the next Avatar - The Last Airbender: THANATOS DIVER! When Samantha dares to search for adventure in the sunken city beneath her boring island home, she discovers a portal to a world both impossibly exciting and even more dangerous than anything she'd ever imagined. While opening the portal brings Sam to a place full of mysterious creatures, strange cities, and uncharted lands.

Super Mutant Magic Academy/Step Aside, Pops! Combo

Publisher: DRAWN & QUARTERLY
(W/A/CA) Jillian Tamaki, Kate Beaton
Drawn & Quarterly celebrates its 25th year in publishing with this special edition all-ages FCBD previewing two of its biggest books for 2015. Kate Beaton is back with Step Aside, Pops! her 2015 follow-up to her bestselling debut, Hark! A Vagrant, with more irreverent and hilarious comics on history and literature. Sharing the billing is Jillian Tamaki, best known for co-creating Skim and This One Summer - moody and atmospheric award winners. Super Mutant Magic Academy, which Jillian has been serialising online for the past four years, paints a teenaged world filled with just as much ennui and uncertainty, but also with a sharp dose of humour. Drawn & Quarterly's FCBD showcases two of the best known women in comics today and is ideal for retailers looking to expand and diversify their customer base.

Tales Of Honor FCBD Edition

Publisher: IMAGE COMICS
(W) Matt Hawkins (A/CA) Linda Sejic
An original Honor Harrington story!  Set in the universe of the best-selling military science fiction novels by David Weber, this self-contained zero issue is the lead in for the new ongoing series also launching in May.  On patrol in the Silesian Confederacy, Honor and crew chase a pirate vessel only to have it eject its human cargo of slaves into space.  Horrified at the callous disregard for life, the crew of the HMS Fearless investigate and uncover a vast conspiracy by the planet Mesa to provide genetically enhanced slaves to the seedy underbelly of the various Star Kingdoms.

Terrible Lizard #1

Publisher: ONI PRESS INC.
(W) Cullen Bunn (A/CA) Drew Moss
The touching story of a girl and her T-Rex... with a healthy dose of collateral damage and kaiju fighting on the side! When the scientists of Cosmos Labs punch a hole through spacetime, they pull a ferocious dinosaur into the present. The dinosaur imprints on teenage Jessica, proving to be more mischievous than vicious. But he is not alone, as transdimensional monsters begin attacking our world, and now Jessica and her new friend Wrex have to save the universe! For fans of bad science, dinosaurs, giant monster battles, and friendship, the all-ages friendly and action-packed TERRIBLE LIZARD begins here!

FCBD 2015 The Tick

Publisher: NEW ENGLAND COMICS
(W) Jeff McClelland (A/CA) Duane Redhead
THE TICK returns for FCBD 2015 with 32 pages of FULL-COLOR comic book fun! In the ALL-NEW lead story, The Tick & Arthur's apartment is haunted by a ghost from The Tick's mysterious past---an entity who claims to be The Tick's FIRST sidekick and it won't rest in peace until... well, we can't give everything away! Plus more full-colour story fun featuring The Tick! Great for fans new and old!

Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles Prelude To Vengeance

Publisher: IDW PUBLISHING
(W) Tom Waltz, Bobby Curnow (A/CA) Mateus Santolouco
The Turtles' final battle with Shredder begins here! This book will take us inside the minds of key characters in the TMNT universe, revealing the epic moments that have led to the present, as well as setting the stage for the biggest storyline yet with all new material!

Valiant 25th Anniversary Special

Publisher: VALIANT ENTERTAINMENT LLC
(W) Jeff Lemire & Various (A) Butch Guice & Various (CA) Rafa Sandoval
Valiant's 25th year is going to be the biggest one yet! The silver anniversary celebration begins right here on Free Comic Book Day! Bloodshot, X-O Manowar and the rest of Valiant's fearless heroes are taking center stage for a star-studded, jam-packed anniversary smash celebrating 25 years of Valiant comics! Featuring an essential selection of brand-new stories and never-before-seen artwork, alongside exclusive interviews and "best of" features, jump on board here to relive the ground-breaking journey that established Valiant as the largest and most acclaimed independent universe in comics - and witness the action-packed first steps toward 25 more history-making years! The year's can't-miss celebration begins with two all-new stories - only available here on Free Comic Book Day! First, New York Times best-selling writer Jeff Lemire and blockbuster artist Butch Guice chronicle the devastating fallout of THE VALIANT as Bloodshot rises from the ashes to unleash BLOODSHOT REBORN! Then, Valiant superstars Robert Venditti and Diego Bernard throw down the gauntlet for an action-packed introduction to the world of X-O MANOWAR and the heroes that set the Valiant Universe in motion! Plus: NINJAK; IMPERIUM; DIVINITY; IVAR, TIMEWALKER; RAI; special guests from throughout Valiant's decades-long history and even a few surprises! In 2015, the story starts here!

Jojo's Bizarre Adventure/Yu-Gi-Oh!

Publisher: VIZ MEDIA LLC
(W/A) Hirohiko Araki, Kazuki Takahashi
The legendary Shonen Jump series, now available in English for the first time, in a deluxe edition featuring colour pages and newly drawn cover art! JoJo's Bizarre Adventure is a groundbreaking manga famous for its outlandish characters, wild humour and frenetic battles. A multigenerational tale of the heroic Joestar family and their never-ending battle against evil! Tenth-grader Yugi always had his head in some game--until he solved the Millennium Puzzle, an Egyptian artifact containing the spirit of a master gambler from the age of the Pharaohs! Possessed by the puzzle, Yugi becomes Yu-Gi-Oh, the King of Games, and challenges evildoers to the Shadow Games...weird games with high stakes and high risks!

FCBD 2015 World's Of Aspen

Publisher: ASPEN MLT INC
(W) J. T. Krul (A) Vince Hernandez (CA) Alex Konat
Two all-new FATHOM and SOULFIRE series begin right here! Aspen's flagship universes grow larger with two original series debuting exclusively in this year's Free Comic Book Day flipbook offering! MICHAEL TURNER'S FATHOM: BLUE features a brand new cast of Blue outlaws from under the surface, coerced together by the U.S. Government for a covert war against their own kind-but if they fail their mission-their lives are over! Meanwhile, in MICHAEL TURNER'S ETERNAL SOULFIRE, a new wielder of magic emerges! Cassidy, a young girl with a huge power hidden within her, must place her trust in one of the Soulfire Universes' most fierce warriors, Miya, in order to escape not only those seeking to kill them-but also their own demons from the past! Make sure to stop by your local comic book store and pick up these two exclusive zero issue offerings only in this year's Worlds of Aspen 2015!

Jurassic Strike Force 5 FCBD Edition

Publisher: ZENESCOPE ENTERTAINMENT INC
This is the prequel issue to Silver Dragon Books' All-Ages hit series featuring Earth's Original heroes! The evil Zalex has returned to shatter Earth's peace with his army of mutated dino-soldiers. Now the Jurassic Strike Force 5 will be called into action to stop Zalex's evil plan!

Top 10 Countdown: December 13, 2014

10. The Ready Set - Freakin' Me Out
Last week: NEW!

9. Fall Out Boy - Centuries
Last week: NEW!

8. Zebrahead - Automatic
Last week: 2.

7. Set It Off - Why Worry
Last week: 8.

6. Seaway - Your Best Friend
Last week: 7.

5. Fireworks - Run, Brother, Run
Last week: 6.

4. Driver Friendly - Everything Gold
Last week: 5.

3. Patent Pending - Hey Mario
Last week: 4.

2. Take Me To The Pilot - What They Ask For
Last week: 1.

1. Forever Came Calling - Defenseless
Last week: 3.

Special: Top 10 Original Christmas Songs You've Never Heard

It's that time of year again, when the calendar hits December the blog takes on a new face giving you Christmas themed Specials. Last year we tackled top 10 movies, music videos, gift ideas and my past Christmas CD's. You can expect another Christmas CD list this year once Volume 7 is released, in  other words when the tracklisting finalized and I burn it. But for now let's tackle some songs you may have heard on these compilations. I'm counting down the Top 10 Original Christmas Songs You've Never Heard, save for perhaps on my annual "What's A Partridge, What's a Pear Tree" compilations.

10. July - This Christmas

Okay so I couldn't find a youtube video for this song and since this post is already late just head on over here http://propertyofzack.com/post/38481634630/poz-stream-july-this-christmas-ft-stacey and listen to it okay? Cool. They're a sweet Pop-Punk band form Toronto signed to TDR Records.

9. From The Top - Hot Chocolate Stains And Candy Canes

Yeah.... No video for this one either... So go here http://sexrobotrecords.bandcamp.com/track/hot-chocolate-stains-and-candy-canes. From The Top were a Pop Punk band that broke up back in 2012 but damn is this track catchy for a bunch of California dudes.

8. The Fold - This Christmas

The Fold were once on the brink of breakthrough back when they were signed to Hopeless Records but then nothing... But out of that nothing came this, the second song on this list titled "This Christmas" I can make a separate Top 10 for all the songs titled this.

7. You, Me, And Everyone We Know - We've Got Diggin' Out To Do

This song was released with a brand new band after lead singer Ben allegedly ripped off his band mates forcing them all to leave just when they started to generate label interest unfortunately they had to restart and they remain unsigned. So I guess they got some diggin' out to do...

6. The Click Five - My Girlfriend (Forgot Me This Christmas)

Most people knew the name The Click Five from their powerpop hits "Just The Girl" and "Catch Your Wave" but they also had this Christmas ditty that most missed. Not surprising though since The Click Five were in the limelight about as long as Vanilla Ice.

5. I Call Fives - This Xmas

I Call Fives went unsigned for a while, they finally got inked to Pure Noise Records and put out a great full length before ultimately breaking up but prior to signing they released this gem of a Christmas tune and it's the last time you'll see this or any other variation of This Christmas on this list... Promise.

4. These Kids Wear Crowns - You're My Mrs. Claus

These Kids are household names in Canada but they haven't released anything, outside of christmas tunes, since 2010... Good thing these Christmas songs are great.

3. All These Lights - Christmas Wish

This band is local, but this song was produced by Derek of Brighter, Brightest and the video features a familiar face...

2. A Change Of Pace - Christmas On The Coast

Okay so maybe you might know this one seeing it's spot on A Santa Cause 2, which were the primo compilations for us punk rock kids... But given the presence of bigger bands you'd be excused if you skipped over this track but take a good listen now.

1. Artist Vs. Poet - Airplanes And Candy Canes

Artist Vs. Poet was similar to The Fold, signed to Fearless Records to be their next big thing, they never took off after an EP release and were dropped. The band is still kicking though independently though. Including their Christmas album Naughty Or Nice featuring this gem. The #1 Christmas song you never heard.

Top 10 Countdown: December 6, 2014

10. Fireworks - Bed Sores
Last week: 4.

9. 5 Seconds Of Summer - Good Girls
Last week: 9.

8. Set It Off - Why Worry
Last week: NEW!

7. Seaway - Your Best Friend
Last week: 8.

6. Fireworks - Run, Brother, Run
Last week: 7.

5. Driver Friendly - Everything Gold
Last week: 6.

4. Patent Pending - Hey Mario
Last week: 5.

3. Forever Came Calling - Defenseless
Last week: 3.

2. Zebrahead - Automatic
Last week: 2.

1. Take Me To The Pilot - What They Ask For
Last week: 1.

Monthly Movie Madness: December 2014

5. The Gambler

The Players: Director: Rupert Wyatt (Rise Of The Planet Of The Apes, The Escapist) Writer: William Monahan (The Departed, Sin City: A Dame To Kill For) Starring: Mark Wahlberg (The Departed, Lone Survivor), Brie Larson (Scott Pilgrim Vs. The World, 21 Jump St), John Goodman (Argo, The Monuments Men), Jessica Lange (Grey Gardens, The Vow)

Synopsis: Jim Bennett (Academy Award (R)-nominee Mark Wahlberg) is a risk taker. Both an English professor and a high-stakes gambler, Bennett bets it all when he borrows from a gangster (Michael Kenneth Williams) and offers his own life as collateral. Always one step ahead, Bennett pits his creditor against the operator of a gambling ring (Alvin Ing) and leaves his dysfunctional relationship with his wealthy mother (Academy Award (R)-winner Jessica Lange) in his wake. He plays both sides, immersing himself in an illicit, underground world while garnering the attention of Frank (John Goodman), a loan shark with a paternal interest in Bennett's future. As his relationship with a student (Brie Larson) deepens, Bennett must take the ultimate risk for a second chance...

Why you should watch it: I love watching a plan come together... Red Dawn, Ocean's Eleven, The Purge: Anarchy are all examples of this and I have to imagine after watching the trailer that this will be along those same veins. The early reviews aren't great but this still looks like a fun ride.

4. Big Eyes

The Players: Director: Tim Burton (Sweeney Todd, Big Fish) Writer: Larry Karaszewski and Scott Alexander (Ed Wood, 1408) Starring: Christoph Waltz (Django Unchained, Inglorious Basterds), Amy Adams (American Hustle, Man Of Steel), Terrence Stamp (Superman II, Valkyrie)

Synopsis: Directed and produced by Tim Burton, BIG EYES is based on the true story of Walter Keane (Christoph Waltz), who was one of the most successful painters of the 1950s and early 1960s. The artist earned staggering notoriety by revolutionising the commercialisation and accessibility of popular art with his enigmatic paintings of waifs with big eyes. The truth would eventually be discovered though: Keane's art was actually not created by him at all, but by his wife, Margaret (Amy Adams). The Keanes, it seemed, had been living a lie that had grown to gigantic proportions. BIG EYES centres on Margaret's awakening as an artist, the phenomenal success of her paintings, and her tumultuous relationship with her husband, who was catapulted to international fame while taking credit for her work.

Why you should watch it: Every few years Tim Burton releases a film that everyone says "This'll get him his Oscar" it started with Ed Wood then Big Fish and most recently Sweeney Todd. Big Eyes appears to be this flavour du jour, the only problem is it's his riskiest flick ever made, even more so than Big Fish and the buzz is good but not great... Sorry Tim you may have to wait.

3. Into The Woods

The Players: Director: Rob Marshall (Chicago, Memoirs Of A Geisha) Writer: James Lapine (Sundays In The Park With George, Passion) Starring: Johnny Depp (Pirates Of The Caribbean, Alice In Wonderland), Meryl Streep (Mamma Mia, August: Osage County), Chris Pine (Star Trek, Horrible Bosses 2), Emily Blunt (Looper, Live. Die. Repeat. The Edge Of Tomorrow), Jake Gyllenhaal (Nightcrawler, Prisoners)

Synopsis: "Into the Woods" is a modern twist on several of the beloved Brothers Grimm fairy tales, intertwining the plots of a few choice stories and exploring the consequences of the characters' wishes and quests. This humorous and heartfelt musical follows the classic tales of Cinderella (Anna Kendrick), Little Red Riding Hood (Lilla Crawford), Jack and the Beanstalk (Daniel Huttlestone), and Rapunzel (MacKenzie Mauzy)-all tied together by an original story involving a baker and his wife (James Corden & Emily Blunt), their wish to begin a family and their interaction with the witch (Meryl Streep) who has put a curse on them.

Why you should watch it: Even I'm not one for musicals... But that cast is spectacular and Kendrick has proved in the past her pipes can carry a movie.

2. The Hobbit: The Battle Of The Five Armies

The Players: Director: Peter Jackson (The Lord Of The Rings, King Kong) Writer: Peter Jackson, Fran Walsh, Phillipa Boyens (The Lord Of The Rings, The Lovely Bones) and Guillermo Del Toro (Lord Of The Rings, Hellboy II: The Golden Army) Starring: Martin Freeman (The Hitchhikers Guide To The Galaxy, Hot Fuzz), Luke Evans (Dracula Untold, Fast & Furious 6), Ian McKellen (X-Men, Gods And Monsters), Richard Armitage (Captain America: The First Avenger, Into The Storm)

Synopsis: From Academy Award (R)-winning filmmaker Peter Jackson comes "The Hobbit: The Battle of the Five Armies," the third in a trilogy of films adapting the enduringly popular masterpiece The Hobbit, by J.R.R. Tolkien. "The Hobbit: The Battle of the Five Armies" brings to an epic conclusion the adventures of Bilbo Baggins, Thorin Oakenshield and the Company of Dwarves. Having reclaimed their homeland from the Dragon Smaug, the Company has unwittingly unleashed a deadly force into the world. Enraged, Smaug rains his fiery wrath down upon the defenceless men, women and children of Lake-town. Obsessed above all else with his reclaimed treasure, Thorin sacrifices friendship and honor toward it as Bilbo's frantic attempts to make him see reason drive the Hobbit towards a desperate and dangerous choice. But there are even greater dangers ahead. Unseen by any but the Wizard Gandalf, the great enemy Sauron has sent forth legions of Orcs in a stealth attack upon the Lonely Mountain. As darkness converges on their escalating conflict, the races of Dwarves, Elves and Men must decide - unite or be destroyed. Bilbo finds himself fighting for his life and the lives of his friends in the epic Battle of the Five Armies, as the future of Middle-earth hangs in the balance.

Why you should watch it: I'm not foolish enough to think that this will be the last time we visit middle earth, LOTR has a rich history and although Tolkien's works will be covered there's still many more stories that can be told, all the same, it's nice to see a trilogy wrapped up, although I'm more curious to see how they make this instalment action packed considering at this point in the book not a whole lot happens.

1. Top Five

The Players: Director: Chris Rock (Head Of State, Madagascar) Writer: Chris Rock (Death At A Funeral, I Think I Love My Wife) Starring: Chris Rock (Grown Ups, Nurse Betty), Rosario Dawson (Clerks II, Unstoppable), Tracy Morgan (Cop Out, The Boxtrolls), Gabrielle Union (Think Like A Man, Love & Basketball)

Synopsis: Pulsing with the rhythm of his greatest stand-up, Chris Rock's TOP FIVE takes things to the next level, revelling in the high and the low, and blending a star-studded comedic romp with an irresistible romance. TOP FIVE digs under the surface of show business, politics, rap, and the exigencies of being black and famous today-holding it all up to the light in the way only Chris Rock can. Mingling echoes of Woody Allen and Dick Gregory with the energy of Kanye West and Jay Z, TOP FIVE is an original and radically new kind of American movie. Written, directed by, and starring Chris Rock, TOP FIVE tells the story of New York City comedian-turned-film star Andre Allen, whose unexpected encounter with a journalist (Rosario Dawson) forces him to confront the comedy career-and the past-that he's left behind. Starring Chris Rock, Rosario Dawson, Kevin Hart, Tracy Morgan, Cedric The Entertainer, J.B. Smoove, Sherri Shepherd, Anders Holm, Romany Malco, Leslie Jones, Michael Che, and Jay Pharoah. The film is produced by Scott Rudin and Eli Bush. The Co-Producers are Shawn "Jay Z" Carter and Kanye West; the Executive Music Producer is Questlove.

Why you should watch it: The movie is clearly a commentary on Chris's own life and generally when it gets this personal it becomes the best art outlet. The trailer looks funny and charming and the reviews are great. Rock clearly put his blood, sweat and tears into this and the results sure seem to be satisfying. Can't wait to find out for myself.

Honourable mentions: Annie, The Interview, Inherent Vice