GEEK FACT
Did you know that the earliest surviving example of an animated film is Humorous Phases of Funny Faces (1906) by newspaper cartoonist J. Stuart Blackton? It was the first cartoon to use the single frame method, and was projected at 20 frames per second. In the film, a cartoonist's line drawings of two faces were "animated" (or came to life) on a blackboard. The two faces smiled and winked, and the cigar-smoking man blew smoke in the lady's face; also, a circus clown led a small dog to jump through a hoop.
From http://www.filmsite.org/animatedfilms.html
MOVIES & GAMES PREVIEW
Upcoming U.S. Movie & Game Releases
Your inside guide to U.S. movie & game releases and the visual effect companies who make movie magic.
MOVIES
Toy Story 3
U.S. Release Date: June 18, 2010 (3D/2D theaters and IMAX 3D)
Studio:Disney Pixar
Plot Summary: The creators of the beloved Toy Story films re-open the toy box and bring moviegoers back to the delightful world of our favorite gang of toy characters in Toy Story 3. As Andy prepares to depart for college, Buzz, Woody and the rest of his loyal toys are troubled about their uncertain future. Directed by Lee Unkrich (co-director of Toy Story 2 and Finding Nemo), Toy Story 3 is a comical new adventure in Disney Digital 3D that lands the toys in a room full of untamed tots who can't wait to get their sticky little fingers on these "new" toys. It's pandemonium as they try to stay together, ensuring "no toy gets left behind." Meanwhile, Barbie comes face to plastic face with Ken (yes, that Ken).
From www.comingsoon.net
The Twilight Saga: Eclipse
U.S. Release Date: June 30, 2010 (conventional theaters and IMAX)
Studio:Summit Entertainment
Plot Summary: In Eclipse, Bella once again finds herself surrounded by danger as Seattle is ravaged by a string of mysterious killings and a malicious vampire continues her quest for revenge. In the midst of it all, she is forced to choose between her love for Edward and her friendship with Jacob — knowing that her decision has the potential to ignite the ageless struggle between vampire and werewolf. With her graduation quickly approaching, Bella is confronted with the most important decision of her life.
From www.comingsoon.net
GAMES
Alpha Protocol
U.S. Release Date: June 1, 2010
Platforms: Xbox 360
Studio:Obsidian Entertainment
Synopsis: Loyalty carries a price and no one knows this more than agent Michael Thorton. A talented young agent cast out by his government, Thorton is the only one with the information needed to stop an impending international catastrophe. To do so means he must cut himself off from the very people he is sworn to protect. As players determine how to accomplish different objectives, the decisions made and actions taken in each mission will ultimately transform the type of secret agent Michael Thorton will become. Every choice the player makes as Michael Thorton will carry consequences for his future and the fate of the world.
From www.gamespy.com
Green Day: Rock Band
U.S. Release Date: June 8, 2010
Platforms: Xbox 360
Studio:Harmonix
Synopsis: Featuring the likenesses of Green Day members Billie Joe Armstrong, Mike Dirnt and Tré Cool, Green Day: Rock Band covers everything from the band's earliest punk hits to the epic scope of their latest albums, giving players the unique chance to experience the music of this pioneering band in a whole new environment featuring select venues and art specific to the band's history.
Green Day: Rock Band lets players perform vocals, guitar, bass and drums, as well as featuring special three-part vocal harmonies not only with the on-disc setlist but also when importing Green Day DLC tracks from the Rock Band Music Library of downloadable content. As they progress through the game, players gain access into the band's media vault, where they can unlock collectible images, and rare and unreleased video footage of the band.
From www.gamespy.com