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The highly anticipated second season of The Lord of the Rings: The Rings of Power  is finally here, launching with a hefty three-episode premiere on Prime Video. This season delves even deeper into the rich lore of Middle-Earth’s Second Age, taking place thousands of years before the events of The Lord of the Rings . With the focus on the forging of the titular Rings of Power, the second season raises the stakes immediately, plunging viewers into the darkness that begins to envelop the characters. Sauron’s Return: A Dark Force at the Center of It All One of the most exciting aspects of this season is the return of Sauron (Charlie Vickers). He stands as the central axis around which the show spins. His re-emergence brings an atmosphere of tension and dread, as Sauron’s cunning schemes unfold and he attempts to rebuild his strength. From the start, his presence looms over every corner of Middle-Earth, with his actions pushing the world towards chaos. Opposite Sauron is Galadriel (Morfydd Clark), whose journey continues to evolve. Together, Sauron and Galadriel form the backbone of these early episodes, and their impact on the show’s trajectory is profound. Even though The Rings of Power  is a prequel, meaning certain events are known to those familiar with the lore, the series keeps viewers invested in the present drama. The tension between the characters and the unknown factors of how events will unfold make for captivating storytelling. A Balance of Storytelling and Character Development One of the most impressive feats in the three-episode premiere is the show’s ability to juggle its large ensemble cast. Set across the vast expanse of Middle-Earth, The Rings of Power  balances screen time exceptionally well and gives the story time to breathe and develop. Just when it feels like the focus should shift to another character, the series transitions seamlessly. The strength of the writing in season two stems from how well the characters were established in season one. This allows the new season to focus on how these characters evolve and are affected by the ever-growing presence of Sauron. The alliances, betrayals, and relationships that emerge feel natural and significant, and adds weight to every interaction. From the very first episode, the stakes are raised, and every conversation and event feels consequential. A Visual Feast: Production Value at Its Finest There’s no denying that The Rings of Power  is one of the most expensive TV series ever made, and it shows in every frame. The production value is nothing short of spectacular. From the stunning sets to the intricately designed costumes, the makeup, and visual effects — everything is executed at the highest level. The cinematography is breathtaking and captures the epic scale and beauty of Middle-Earth. Complementing the visual grandeur is Bear McCreary’s score, which elevates the emotional weight of the show. The music is sweeping, epic, and, at times, deeply sinister, perfectly mirroring the tone of the unfolding story. The combination of these technical elements creates a world that is not only engaging, but also visually and aurally mesmerizing. Diving Deeper into the Lore For fans of the lore-rich world of The Lord of the Rings , season two of The Rings of Power  doesn’t disappoint. The show delves deeper into the mythology of Middle-Earth’s Second Age without becoming overly complex or difficult to follow. The balance between world-building and accessibility is well maintained, and it makes the intricate details of the lore feel natural and essential to the unfolding story. With standout performances from a talented ensemble cast, a production value that leaves nothing to be desired, and a story that instantly grips the audience, the second season of The Lord of the Rings: The Rings of Power  is off to an outstanding start. Whether you’re a fan of the lore or a newcomer to Middle-Earth, this season promises to be an enthralling journey. The three-episode premiere of The Lord of the Rings: The Rings of Power will be available on Prime Video this Thursday, 29 August.

The official logline for Strange Darling , a mysterious new horror-thriller from Miramax and Spooky Pictures, is about as much as audiences ought to know ahead of sitting down to watch the film: Nothing is what it seems when a twisted one-night stand spirals into a serial killer’s vicious murder spree. Written and directed by JT Mollner ( Outlaws and Angels ), Strange Darling is a spectacular cat-and-mouse chase executed with militaristic precision. The script is sharp and taut; each one of its modest 97 minutes is packed with tension and twists that subvert the very expectations it so scrupulously establishes. Mollner’s non-linear plot structure imaginatively splits the story into six pulse-pounding sequences, all carefully rearranged to keep viewers on their toes from the opening frame to the closing credits.  There is an uncomfortable interplay between eroticism and violence in this film that is sure to provoke an assortment of reactions from viewers. For better or worse, Strange Darling seems intentionally averse to spoon-feeding a particular message to the audience. However, it may leave some who watch with more questions about Mollner’s perspective on gender politics than about this expert deconstruction of the psychological thriller. Whether or not both of these takeaways were deliberate outcomes is unclear.  Strange Darling marks the debut of celebrated actor Giovanni Ribisi ( Sneaky Pete, Avatar ) as a Director of Photography. Ribisi’s camera work, coupled with the sumptuous production design of Priscilla Elliott ( Richard Jewell, The Hunger Games: Mockingjay - Part 2 ), provides nothing short of a visual feast. Rural Oregon, for example, has never looked quite as biodiverse as it does as the backdrop for this story. Within the first minute of the movie’s runtime, a title card announces that it was shot entirely on 35mm film, a perfect choice that amplifies the vivid textures present in each and every frame.  In a cinematic world dominated by digital cinematography, the decision to shoot Strange Darling on 35mm doesn’t come across as a gimmick for nostalgia points. It is a tip of the hat to the Hitchcockian and turn-of-the-century thrillers that precede it and that it very cleverly diverges from. The clash between its dated visuals and contemporary narrative approach reinforce the film’s core conceit very effectively.  Craig DeLeon’s brooding score and Z Berg’s original soundtrack (complete with a haunting acoustic cover of Nazareth’s Love Hurts , available to stream here on YouTube) lay the foundation for Strange Darling ’s unsettling yet intimately charged atmosphere. The sound design as a whole is some of the best put to film in recent memory.  The heart and soul of Strange Darling is without question the career-best performances delivered by its two leads, Willa Fitzgerald ( The Fall of The House of Usher, Scream: The TV Series ) and Kyle Gallner ( Smile, Jennifer’s Body ). Both Gallner and Fitzgerald cement themselves as horror royalty with their respective portrayals of The Lady and The Demon, which call on them to juggle the whiplashing contradictions of human nature convincingly. The result of their gripping commitment is a pair of remarkable star turns that will not soon be forgotten. Barbara Hershey ( Insidious, Black Swan ) and Ed Begley Jr. ( Better Call Saul, St. Elsewhere ) also make delightful cameos as a pair of eccentric doomsday preppers. Overall, Strange Darling serves up a provocative yet worthwhile reimagination of the horror-thriller genre. If it manages to succeed in finding its audience in the way NEON’s Immaculate and Longlegs have, it could very well surpass them in longevity and impact.  Rating: 4.5/5. Strange Darling is now playing in theaters nationwide.  Follow @AHSZone and @NexusPointNews on X/Twitter to stay updated with all the latest news about the horror genre, including Ryan Murphy Productions and more.

This is a story all about how Will's life got flipped-turned upside down, and I'd like to take a minute so just sit right there and let me tell you about some episodes of the third season of a reboot called Bel-Air . Bel-Air season 3 picks up where last season left off before venturing into new territory. School's out and almost everyone is equally hard at work and pleasure for the summer, especially Will. He is motivated more than ever to forge a path of his own and not be confined to the box society wants to put him in. Meanwhile, Carlton is following a similar path, except he's somewhat less motivated and more desperate to redeem himself and rebuild the relationships he burnt to the ground. The Ballad of Bel-Air Season 3 Begins Will and Carlton's converging paths lead them to form an alliance that benefits, themselves, their community, and their family. As for everyone else, there's no shortage of relationship drama. Aunt Viv and Uncle Phil are struggling with a homewrecking force, Hilary is increasingly conflicted over her blooming relationship with LaMarcus and her love for Jazz. Then there's the young Ashley who is still figuring out her feelings while being subjected to witness relationships implode around her. Considering the aforementioned details, you may expect a round story to immerse you in the lives of the characters, unfortunately, that was not the case. Most of the subplots were less engaging, more distracting, and predictable. I do understand how unorthodox it is to discuss the subplots before the main plot, bear with me, I think it's necessary in this case due to how dominant and distracting they were. Too Much of The Same Drama I praise the cast, everyone in this show is an amazing actor, but based on the first three episodes there does not seem to be a coherent focus on the story. Every other character is involved in a love triangle mirroring each other or threading along plot points from the prior season. They do little to nothing to advance the season plotwise. It's a shame because Bel-Air showed some moments of potential in this season with Will and Carlton's partnership, Aunt Viv's career, and Jazz fighting for his record shop. In those moments there were glimpses of how challenging, yet rewarding perseverance can be in the fight for a better future. More attention to the resilience would significantly pave the way to a fleshed-out story that resonates with audiences. I would like to believe that the first three episodes were just an appetizer and the main course is yet to come because the potential is still there. The cast protrudes charisma and vulnerability into their characters with fantastic acting and magnetism with each other, however, they could only go as far as they can as the writing lacks focus and balance. I hope to see this rectified as the season progresses. That said, here is my rating for the first 3 episodes of Bel-Air season 3... Rating: 3/5 About Bel-Air Release Date: August 15 Network: Peacock Format:  Drama series Showrunner / Writer / Executive Producer: Carla Banks Waddles Executive Producer / Director (EP 306): Morgan Cooper Executive Producers: Will Smith, Terence Carter, James Lassiter, Miguel Melendez, Benny Medina, Quincy Jones, Andy & Susan Borowitz, Janeika James, Jasheika James and Andy Reaser Executive Producers: Will Smith, Terence Carter, James Lassiter, Miguel Melendez, Malcolm Spellman, Quincy Jones, Benny Medina, and Andy & Susan Borowitz Directors: Keesha Sharp (EPs 301, 305), John Scott (EP 302), Nick Copus (EPs 303, 304, 310), Mo McRae (EP 307), Rachel Raimist (EP 308), Christine Swanson (EP 309) Produced By: Universal Television, a division of Universal Studio Group, and Westbrook Studios, a division of Jada Pinkett Smith and Will Smith’s media company Westbrook Inc. Cast: Jabari Banks, Coco Jones, Olly Sholotan, Cassandra Freeman, Akira Akbar, Adrian Holmes, Simone Joy Jones, Jimmy Akingbola, Jordan L. Jones Synopsis Set in modern-day Los Angeles, Peacock’s successful one-hour drama series Bel-Air imagines the beloved sitcom The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air through a new, dramatic take on Will’s complicated journey from the streets of West Philadelphia to the gated mansions of Bel-Air. As these two worlds collide, Will reckons with the power of second chances while navigating the conflicts, emotions, and biases of a world far different from the only one he’s ever known. Bel Air is now streaming on Peacock.

DC Studios' Creature Commandos marks the exciting debut of the highly anticipated DC Universe. Announced by DC Studios co-CEO James Gunn during the DCU's initial reveal in January 2023, the series is both written and created by Gunn himself. Creature Commandos  is set to release on Max this December, which is a perfect lead-in to 2025, a very important year for DC Studios as it brings us the DCU’s first feature film, Superman  and likely season 2 of Peacemaker . Following a trailer at SDCC 2024, DC released the following synopsis for the series: Creature Commandos  tracks a secret team of incarcerated monsters recruited for missions deemed too dangerous for humans. When all else fails…they’re your last, worst option. THE CAST OF CREATURE COMMANDOS Frank Grillo as Rick Flag Sr. Rick Flag Sr. is the leader of Task Force M aka the Creature Commandos. Flag is also the father of the deceased Rick Flag, former leader of Task Force X aka the Suicide Squad. Although he’s assigned to lead the Creature Commandos by Amanda Waller, how their relationship came to be is unknown. In the comics, Flag was a WWII fighter pilot who led a team called the Suicide Squadron. Following the war, he was assigned to the first iteration of Task Force X. Flag was created by John Ostrander and Luke McDonnell and first debuted in Secret Origins  #14 in 1987. Sean Gunn as G.I. Robot G.I. Robot is an android designed by the military for the sole purpose of killing Nazis, presumably during WWII. There have been several iterations of G.I. Robot in the comics like Joe, Mac, J.A.K.E. 1, and J.A.K.E. 2, but it’s currently unknown which version of the character will be introduced in the series, but shares several similarities to the J.A.K.E. 2 version. This version of the character was created as a weapon during WWII to fight in the Pacific and later on Dinosaur Island. G.I. Robot was created by Robert Kanigher, Ross Andru, and Mike Esposito and debuted in Star Spangled War Stories  #101 in 1962. Sean Gunn as Weasel Weasel is an anthropomorphic weasel-like creature. Gunn reprises his role from The Suicide Squad  and is expected to be portraying a variant of the DCEU iteration for the DCU with likely a similar background. In The Suicide Squad , Weasel was imprisoned for killing 27 children and immediately drowns in the opening of the film to be revealed he survived in the ending. The series will likely pick up where the film left off. In the comics, Weasel is a man in a weasel suit named John Monroe who uses the suit to become a serial killer. Weasel was created by Gerry Conway and Rafael Kayanan and debuted in The Fury of Firestorm  #36 in 1985. Zoe Chao as Nina Mazursky Nina Mazursky is an amphibious fish-woman who was once a scientist. In the New 52 comics, Mazursky was the scientist responsible for creating the Creature Commandos. Following the loss of her daughter and a divorce, she became invested in her research which included experimentation on herself, turning her into an amphibian. She was created by Jeff Lemire and Ibraim Roberson for Flashpoint: Frankenstein and the Creatures of the Unknown #1 in 2011. David Harbour as Eric Frankenstein DC’s iteration of Frankenstein shares a similar backstory to Frankenstein’s monster, but has adopted the name of his creator. The comic version of this character first debuted in Detective Comics #135   in 1948, created by Edmond Hamilton and Bob Kane, but was revamped in 2005 by Grant Morrison and Doug Mahnke, which is the version the character in the series will be adapted from. DC’s Frankenstein is a member of the Creature Commandos, but prefers to work alone, going on fantastical adventures, fighting all sorts of threats. Indira Varma as the Bride The Bride is the bride of Frankenstein and along with her husband, a member of the creature commandos. In the comics, Frankenstein and the Bride are divorced with Frankenstein constantly trying to earn back her love. Although depicted with two arms in the series, the comic version of the character is a four-armed monster composed of corpse parts like her husband. The Bride was created by Grant Morrison and Doug Mahnke and debuted in Seven Soldiers: Frankenstein #3 in 2006. Alan Tudyk as Doctor Phosphorus Doctor Phosphorus, aka Dr. Alexander Sartorius, is a member of the Commandos who is depicted as a bright green radioactive skeleton. Phosphorus gains his abilities in the comics following a nuclear power plant malfunction off the shore of Gotham City. The accident left him with transparent, radioactive skin that glowed. He was a recurring foe for Batman. Phosphorus was created by Steve Englehart and Walt Simonson and debuted in Detective Comics  #469 in 1977. Viola Davis as Amanda Waller Amanda Waller is the leader of A.R.G.U.S., the organization overseeing the Suicide Squad and Creature Commandos. Following the events of Peacemaker  season 1, Waller’s Suicide Squad is exposed by her daughter, Leota Adebayo, leading Task Force X to be shut down. This leaves her with no choice but to reform a new team but with nonhuman prisoners: the Creature Commandos. In the comics, Waller shares many similarities to her DCEU and presumably DCU counterparts as a morally gray government figure. She was created by John Ostrander, Len Wein, and John Byrne and debuted in Legends  #1 in 1986. Anya Chalotra as Circe Circe is a sorceress based on the Greek mythological figure of the same name. Not much is known about this iteration of the character other than she shares a similar design to the Post-Crisis version of the character. In the comics she is primarily an antagonist to Wonder Woman and is most known for inciting the events of War of the Gods  as a way to gain the powers of the gods. DC’s iteration of Circe was created by Robert Kanigher and Harry G. Peter and debuted in Wonder Woman  #37 in 1949. Steve Agee as John Economos John Economos is an A.R.G.U.S. agent and warden of Belle Reve Penitentiary, where inmates that make up the Suicide Squad and Creature Commandos reside. This version of the character will presumably share the same history as the DCEU version, retaining the events of The Suicide Squad  and Peacemaker . In the comics, Economos is portrayed more as Belle Reve’s warden and doesn’t go on field missions with the Suicide Squad. He was created by John Ostrander and Luke McDonnell and debuted in Suicide Squad  #1 in 1987. Maria Bakalova as Princess Ilana Rostovic Ilana Rostovic is an original character created for the series by James Gunn. Although not much is known of the character at the moment, the trailer for the series shows the Creature Commandos being sent to an unknown nation where they battle knights in a castle, presumably belonging to Rostovic. She’s later seen for a split second having a conversation with Flag, giving us a first look at the character. Creature Commandos  premieres in December as the first entry of Chapter One of the DC Universe.

One of the most iconic sagas in cinema finally returns to theaters this week with Alien: Romulus directed by Fede Álvarez , known for films like Evil Dead and Don't Breathe . With Alien: Romulus , Fede Álvarez goes back to the roots of the franchise delivering an installment that focuses on horror without compromising on action. Heavily tensed with twists and turns around every corner, the film pushed me deep into my seat. The film starts off slowly but once the pace picks up, it becomes almost suffocating as the characters barely have a moment of respite. The tension is so well-handled that even mundane scenes like a simple spaceship launch are filled with suspense. The movie features several jump scares that had the entire audience jumping out of their seats during my screening. Visually, the film is incredibly generous with stunning sets and the extensive use of practical effects for the Xenomorph . This approach makes everything feel much more realistic and terrifying. The design of the Xenomorph is particularly well-executed, making it appear truly menacing especially when it is crawling. The special effects are astounding with top-notch quality showcased in the depiction of space, spaceships, and planets. When it comes to sets and visuals, 20th Century Fox does not disappoint this year with films like Kingdom of the Planet of the Apes and The First Omen . The film’s sound design is excellent, from the creatures' sounds to the ships, but the biggest surprise is the ingenious use of silence which perfectly complements the emptiness and void of space. Cailee Spaeny continues to shine with her third major role of the year following Priscilla and Civil War . She continues to showcase her talent and I’m excited to see her upcoming projects especially Knives Out 3 . Meanwhile, Archie Renaux has gone from Prime Video rom-coms ( Upgraded , The Other Zoey ) to one of the biggest franchises in cinema—quite a glow-up. The actor proves himself more than worthy of it. Isabela Merced is very convincing in her role, but the standout of the film is none other than David Jonsson who brilliantly portrays a complex character. His nuanced and moving performance is one of the film’s major highlights. As for the music, while it may not be extraordinary, Benjamin Wallfisch has composed a solid score particularly excelling in the horror elements that highlight the grandeur of the creatures and the epic moments of exploration in deep space. Alien: Romulus pays homage to the very first Alien film in many ways, while also introducing new elements to the franchise through its world-building. We learn a little bit more about how the facehuggers operate and about a new serum that could be a game-changer in this universe. Just as the film seems to be wrapping up, a massive & crazy twist shakes everything up, likely to polarize Alien fans even further—especially considering how divided the community already is over Ridley Scott 's recent films such as Prometheus and Alien: Covenant . Intense and gripping, Alien: Romulus makes its way among one of the best Aliens films thanks to Fede Álvarez bold & innovative creative decisions. The film opens in theater this Friday on August 16. Rating: 4/5

Spider-Man fans may lament the lack of any Spider-Man 4 movie news at D23, however lucky attendees got a fresh look at what's to come in the upcoming animated series Your Friendly Neighborhood Spider-Man . Sadly we can't show it, but we can at least talk about it. A new clip was shown to the attendees, showing Peter arriving at Midtown High only to bet with another arrival. Unfortunately, it's of the unfriendly kind, as a mysterious symbiote comes through the portal. Doctor Strange intervenes to stop the interdimensional symbiote, Runaways' Nico Minoru is in danger as the symbiote has its eyes set on her. Peter tries to save her but is bitten by a mysterious spider that follows the symbiote through the portal. A few months later Norman Osborn is seen mentioning Peter. Your Friendly Neighborhood Spider-Man with a Twist Based on the aforementioned information this is a far cry from the source material where Peter is bitten by a radioactive Spider-Man, or in this case Spider-Man's MCU history, though it's worth mentioning that Your Friendly Neighborhood Spider-Man is in a totally different neighborhood from anywhere we know in the Marvel Universe. The series plays on Marvel's What If...? premise to introduce us to a familiar Spider-Man with a reimagined history as it plays by its own rules in its corner of the multiverse. One of the changes is that Spider-Man wears multiple suits including the Future Foundation suit. Akin to Tony Stark's role as a mentor and father figure to the MCU's Spidey since the events of Captain America: Civil War , Norman Osborn is that mentor to Spider-Man in this alternate history. Norman Osborn will be voiced by Colman Domingo, while Peter Parker/Spider-Man will be voiced by Hudson Thames. Though no release date has been confirmed by Marvel aside from a statement about the mentioned animated titles getting released within next 18 months, according to the US copyright Office Your Friendly Neighborhood Spider-Man is scheduled to be released on November 2nd, 2024. We believe this may be accurate considering that the same source accurately stated Agatha All Along 's release date which is September 18 in the US, and September 19 in Europe. Same listing confirms the casting of following characters: Hudson Thames as Peter Parker Eugene Byrd as Lonnie Lincoln Grace Song as Nico Minoru Hugh Dancy as Otto Octavius Kari Wahlgren as Aunt May Zeno Robinson as Harry Osborn About Your Friendly Neighborhood Spider-Man RELEASE DATE: TBA CREATOR: Jeff Tramell SHOWRUNNER: Jeff Tramell EXECUTIVE PRODUCERS: Jeff Tramell, Brad Winderbaum, Kevin Feige, Victoria Alonso, Louis D'Esposito WRITER: Jeff Trammell PRODUCTION COMPANY: Marvel Studios Animation Tentative synopsis: Peter Parker’s life, while getting ready for his High School orientation, is forever changed by events that send him on a journey like none before. In the first episode we discover that the new era of Spider-Man begins here!

Disney unveiled its upcoming movie and TV lineup at the Disney Entertainment Showcase during D23. Agatha All Along was one of many titles that had been presented. The cast, including Kathryn Hahn, Joe Locke, Aubrey Plaza, Sasheer Zamata, Ali Ahn, Debra Jo Rupp, and Broadway legend Patti LuPone, took the stage to debut a new original song, "The Ballad of the Witches Road." The lyrics to the song: Marching ever forward neath the wooded shrine, I stray not from the path. I hold death’s hand in mine. Primal night, give it sight... Familiar by thy side. If sun be gone, we carry on. Spirit as our guide. Down, down, down the road... Down the witches road... Blood and tears and bone... Maiden, mother, crone. The road is wild and wicked, winding through the wood. Where all that’s wrong is right, and all that’s bad is good. Through many miles of twisted trials, we wander high and low. Take your fears, a door appears... The time has come to go. Down, down, down the road... Down the witches road... Follow me, my friend, to glory at the end. A trailer that has featured the song has also debuted during the event. I will be showing you the details you may have missed in the Agatha All Along trailer. 1. Enter the Witches' Road We see Agatha and the rest of the coven sing a song in the same basement where they open a door. Blue light seen from the door is the same shade as the background in the Witches' Road. It is safe to assume they sing "The Ballad of the Witches Road" to enter the Witches' Road, a magical realm that will reward you if you pass its trials. 2. The Locations All the trials where the witches’ craft is tested seem to unfold in various indoor locations. The trailer reveals a house deep in the woods and a secluded beach house. There was also a castle in the teaser trailer for the show. It seems like the Witches' Road creates different stops, and each location appears to present its own set of trials. 3. Westview Sign The population of Westview now reads 2,251, a big decrease from the 3,822 shown in WandaVision . This dramatic decline suggests that many people may have left the town following the traumatic events that unfolded in WandaVision . However, the possibility remains that this could be a flashback. 4. Rio's Entrance and Her Spider Rio is initially not with the coven if you pay close attention to the trailes. This trailer reveals that she crawls out of the ground. This is interesting because the trailers strongly suggest that you need a coven to enter the Witches' Road. Is Rio Vidal an exception to this rule? Another subtle detail that might go unnoticed is the spider on Rio's shoulder. If you brighten the scene, the spider becomes more visible. Given Rio's apparent strong connection with nature, it’s possible that this spider could be her pet familiar, much like Agatha's Señor Scratchy in WandaVision . 5. Señor Scratchy Returns Agatha's pet Señor Scratchy returns and is seen in Joe Locke's character Teen's arms in front of Agatha's house. 6. The Witch Homages The tradition of paying homage to iconic pop culture and genre archetypes seems to continue in Agatha All Along , much like in WandaVision . Agatha Harkness is the Wicked Witch of the West, Lilia Calderu is Glinda the Good Witch and Jennifer Kale is the Evil Queen. Agatha All Along appears to be drawing from beloved fantasy and fairy tale motifs, especially from the ones with witches. 7. Jennifer Kale's Beauty Salon Jennifer Kale appears to work in a beauty salon, a detail that aligns with the necklace she wears, which resembles a potion bottle. Her special power might involve potions. Lilia Calderu, who is seen working at a psychic shop, has powers related to divination for example. Meanwhile, Alice, who works as security, likely has powers connected to protection or defense. 8. Possessed Agatha Harkness Agatha's spider walk scene is reminiscent of the iconic moment in The Exorcist . Meanwhile, her crawling on the ceiling appears to be a direct homage to Poltergeist , especially with Agatha's outfit—a loose, oversized jersey with numbers on the chest. 9. Hourglass and the Watches The presence of time indicators, such as the hourglass and the watches seen in the sleepover episode, suggests that time plays a crucial role in the trials. These recurring symbols imply that the witches might be under a strict time limit to complete their trials on the Witches' Road. 10. Spellbook? Lilia and Alice appear to have the same spellbook. It might be the same one Teen carries in his holster. 11. Rio's Dagger Rio carries her dagger everywhere. It is also seen on her costume during Agatha All Along costume display. This raises a question: Why does a witch carry a dagger with her? Only reason I can think of is that the dagger is a sort of magical artefact. 12. Cameo Brooch with Hair Inside It was previously revealed that Agatha would have a different brooch in this series. The new trailer shows us that Agatha discovers the new brooch at a crime scene, where she finds what appears to be Wanda Maximoff's body. The brooch contains a strand of brown hair inside. So, whose hair could it be? Is it Wanda's? Although she had red hair the last time we saw her, she was originally a brunette. 13. The Demon on Fire Alice stands before a demon engulfed in flames. It is hard to tel whether the demon is composed of fire itself or being consumed by it, as it appears to breathe fire just moments before erupting into blazes. 14. The Witch Trials During the scene with the demon, two paintings appear on the walls. In one, a woman is being boiled, and in the other, a woman is about to be drowned. These disturbing images likely reference the Salem Witch Trials, where women were brutally executed under accusations of witchcraft. 15. Jennifer Kale Getting Drowned A man in white, who is seemingly portrayed by Scott Butler, tries to drown Jennifer in a sink, likely to determine whether she is a witch or not. This could be one of the flashback scenes. 16. Costumes The costumes the characters are wearing in this particular scene are inspired by 70s fashion. It looks like Agatha All Along will feature a variety of costumes from different decades just like WandaVision . 17. The Phases of the Moon Throughout history, witches have synchronized their rituals and spells with lunar phases depending on their purpose. The phases of the moon are deeply connected to the Triple Goddess: the Maiden, the Mother, and the Crone, who are also invoked in "The Ballad of the Witches' Road." These three figures symbolize different stages of a woman's life and correspond to the waxing, full, and waning phases of the moon. Interestingly, they are also depicted on Agatha's new brooch. 18. Reversed Gravity In the scene with Lilia and the Salem Seven, they appear to be floating, but it seems more like gravity is reversed, causing them to fall rather than fly. 19. The Ghostly Woman with a Black Figure A mysterious, ghostly woman appears with a dark figure looming behind her. Could this be someone from the past haunting one of the witches? 20. Swords Falling From the Ceiling When Agatha, Lilia, and Jen are dressed as iconic witches from pop culture, a sword suddenly falls from the ceiling. I am inclined to think the swords are also time symbols, with each falling sword serving as a reminder that time is running out. 21. Brooms Agatha holds a thick piece of wood while flying, which closely resembles the one Alice is seen holding while casting a spell. I think what Alice is holding is also a broom. First two episodes of Agatha All Along will premiere on Disney+ on September 18.

Everything You Need to Know About Daredevil: Born Again Daredevil: Born Again is perhaps one of Marvel Studios’ most anticipated shows following the cancellation of Netflix’s Daredevil series back in 2019. Fans called for the Daredevil show to be brought back for years until Marvel Studios (now housed under Marvel Television) announced the show was returning at San Diego Comic Con in 2022. As we approach D23 Ultimate Fan Expo, let’s run through everything we know about the show. Release Date During the initial announcement, Kevin Feige revealed that the show would have 18 episodes in its first season. Following the creative overhaul that brought in new directors to work on the show, Daredevil: Born Again 's episode count has been reduced to 9. It has been reported that the first season has been split into two separate parts with the first 9 episodes release next spring and the final 9 episodes releases in a future season. Additionally, DanielRPK has reported that the show is expected to resume filming in the Fall of 2024 until mid 2025 setting up a 2026 release. Who Is In Daredevil: Born Again? Much of the cast from the original series have been announced to return to Born Again making way for storylines from the original series to be explored. Charlie Cox as Matt Murdock / Daredevil: A blind lawyer who happens to be the masked vigilante known as Daredevil. Vincent D’Onofrio as Wilson Fisk / Kingpin: A powerful crime lord and business man who has taken an interest in running for Mayor of New York City. Deborah Ann Woll as Karen Page: Matt’s former love interest and partner at Nelson, Murdock & Page law firm. Elden Henson as Foggy Nelson: Matt’s best friend and partner at Nelson, Murdock & Page law firm. Jon Bernthal as Frank Castle / The Punisher: A lethal vigilante who deals with crime using whatever means necessary. Ayelet Zuer as Vanessa Marianna-Fisk: Wilson Fisk’s wife. Wilson Bethel as Benjamin ‘Dex’ Pointdexter / Bullseye: A former FBI Special Agent who has a talent for being able to use any object to hit any target. Genneya Wilson as BB Urich: A young journalist that many have speculated is related to Ben Urich from the original series. Margarita Levieva as Heather Glenn: Matt’s newest love interest. Hunter Doohan: Muse, who is going to be an antagonist in the series. Michael Gandolfini: Daniel Blade. We have also listed some minor additions to the cast, however, we are not exactly sure whether these actors' roles have been changed due to the creative overhaul. The rumor was that the pilot was getting re-shoots and this could have caused the removal of some actors. Here are the new additions to the cast: Susan Varon - returns as Josie, the owner of Josie's Bar Marc Geller - known for Severance . Plays Karlis Irbe in Daredevil: Born Again. Geller has been seen in a behind-the-scenes picture with Vincent D'Onofrio Ruibo Qian , known for her role as Zheng Yi Sao in Our Flag Means Death Elijah Caldwell - Recurring character What is Daredevil: Born Again About? Daredevil: Born Again not only hints at the revival of the canceled Netflix show but it also hints at the 1986 story arc of the same name which deals with Matt Murdock / Daredevil being outed by Karen Page to Kingpin resulting him attacks happening to Matt on a personal and career level. This story arc has been noted as being one of the most defining arcs for the character and we may even see some of this comic story be depicted in the upcoming Disney+ show. What we do know (as shown in the post credit scene for Echo as well as set photos from Born Again filming) is that Wilson Fisk will run for Mayor of NYC and this will set up an interesting conflict between Fisk and Daredevil. How will our masked vigilante hero be able to take down his biggest opponent who happens to be running for a major political position? Marvel Head of Streaming and Animation, Brad Winderbaum, has given a little bit of insight on the approach Marvel Television is taking with the show and what fans can expect: “Daredevil is incredible. It’s similar in some ways to X-Men ’97 , because it’s reviving something that the fans love, but it is taking it in a new direction. These characters have matured. The universe is different than it was. Things have changed. Society’s changed.” — Brad Winderbaum on Daredevil: Born Again via Marvel Official Podcast Daredevil: Born Again Teaser Trailer Breakdown The first teaser trailer was revealed at D23: The Ultimate Fan Event on Friday, August 9. The trailer confirms that Disney is keeping their promise to keep Daredevil: Born Again  as gritty and bloody as its Netflix predecessor, while revealing some new additions to this lore, with new and familiar faces. First, we see Matt Murdock being "a really good lawyer,” talking to his client Hector Ayala (played by the late actor Kamar de los Reyes), at a prison. Hector has more in common with Matt than the average viewer might expect, like Matt, he fights for justice outside the law as the masked vigilante known as The White Tiger. Hector tells Matt, "Somebody has to protect these streets, people are going missing, and no one seems to care. The mask is more than just putting on a suit, it's a calling. I don't think you understand, people need a hero". After such a passionate speech Murdock responds with a cheeky "hm". During Kamar's monologue glimpses of a crime scene at a subway station, his character donning his iconic White Tiger garb and pendant, Matt being held at gunpoint in a robbery, and flashes of Art foreshadowing the unhinged villain known as Muse are shown. Then Matt has a different conversation at a diner saying, "New York's been what it's always been, blood for blood. The entire system's against you, it's often David versus Goliath." The montage continues and then cuts to him in a heated confrontation at a boxing gym with Frank Castle, who looks grizzlier than usual. Matt resumes the conversation saying that this city can't go unchecked, and Wilson Fisk is revealed to be on the other end replying, "Sometimes peace needs to be broken, chaos must reign". Matt's final words to Fisk: "It seems like we really do understand each other. So if you step out of line, I am going to be there." Fisk questions, "This caution that you're giving me, who's it from? Matt Murdock, or... Your darker half?" before having a sinister belly laugh. During that dialogue, the montage revealed everyone's favorite "avocado" Foggy and Karen Page, Benjamin Poindexter (Wilson Bethel) in jail, Matt getting steamy with his latest girlfriend in the shower, Ayelet Zurer's return as Vanessa, and the reveal of the creepy Muse himself. Forgive me for forgetting to mention that multiple Daredevil cowls are on display in his locker so don't be surprised if you see Daredevil in different suits. The final shots feature parallel action sequences of both personas, Daredevil and Matt Murdock which were equally ballistic and fast-paced. I do not know why Kamala Khan's father is here but he's here nevertheless asking Matt, "What kind of lawyer are you?". If you've seen Spider-Man: No Way Home you know what Matt's response is. Daredevil: Born Again will premiere in March 2025 on Disney Plus. Season 2 for the show has already been greenlit.

As promised by DC Studios’ co-CEO, James Gunn, more animated projects will be underway following Creature Commandos .  According to our sources, we can exclusively report that one of these will be an animated series centered on the character Deadman. DC Animation's Deadman series is in early development currently with no writers or scripts in place and has yet to receive the green light. The character Deadman was created in 1967 by Arnold Drake and Carmine Infantino and debuted in Strange Adventures #607. Deadman was originally a trapeze artist named Boston Brand who used the stage name Deadman during his performances. During a performance, Brand is murdered and his spirit is chosen by the goddess Rama Kushna to avenge his own death. Although he is unable to be seen or speak to the living, he has the ability to possess living beings and communicate to the living through his host bodies. Over the years, Deadman has crossed over and interacted with several DC characters. He has been a central figure during the “Blackest Night” and “Brightest Day” storylines and is even brought back to life with a White Lantern ring. In The New 52 initiative, he joins forces with several supernatural characters such as Zatanna and John Constantine as part of Justice League Dark. These storylines could possibly set up Deadman for an appearance in a future season of Lanterns or a possible Justice League Dark project. In similar vein to Creature Commandos , it’s expected that whoever is cast as the voice of Deadman, will reprise the role in future live-action projects within the DCU. The same is expected for the multiple other animated DCU projects currently being developed for the franchise’s 8-10 year plan. This story is developing.

A new character to House of the Dragon makes an appearance during Daemon's vision at the weirwood tree in Harrenhal who is revealed to be none other than the Brynden Rivers, Three-Eyed Crow. Brynden Rivers, also known as Bloodraven, is a significant character in George R.R. Martin's A Song of Ice and Fire series as well as HBO's Game of Thrones adaptation. Brynden Rivers is one of the many illegitimate children of King Aegon IV Targaryen, known as Aegon the Unworthy. His mother was Melissa Blackwood, making him a Blackwood by maternal lineage. He has a distinctive appearance, with pale skin, white hair, and a wine-red birthmark covering one side of his face, resembling a raven, which earned him the nickname Bloodraven. Bloodraven was rumored to be a skilled sorcerer and a master of espionage. He served as the Hand of the King and master of whisperers during the reign of his nephew, King Aerys I Targaryen. Bloodraven was crucial in suppressing the Blackfyre Rebellions, a series of uprisings led by the legitimized bastard Daemon Blackfyre and his descendants. Although Brynden carried the Valyrian steel longsword Dark Sister and was a skilled swordsman, he was also an expert bowman who preferred to use his tall weirwood longbow. After the end of the Blackfyre threat, Bloodraven was eventually exiled to the Wall by King Aegon V Targaryen. At the Wall, he joined the Night's Watch and rose to the position of Lord Commander. He later disappeared beyond the Wall and became the Three-Eyed Crow (or Three-Eyed Raven in the TV adaptation), a powerful greenseer and mentor to Bran Stark. As the Three-Eyed Crow, Bloodraven plays a crucial role in Bran Stark's journey, teaching him about his greenseer abilities and the importance of the past, present, and future in the fight against the White Walkers. In the TV series Game of Thrones , the Three-Eyed Raven is a mysterious and ancient character who possesses the ability to see into the past, present, and future through visions. Although his real name is not explicitly mentioned in the show, he is based on Brynden Rivers from George R.R. Martin's A Song of Ice and Fire series. The Three-Eyed Raven becomes a mentor to Bran Stark, teaching him how to use his greenseer abilities and warg into other beings. He resides in a cave beyond the Wall, hidden and protected by ancient magic, and is accompanied by the Children of the Forest, who assist and protect him. Deeply connected to the weirwood trees, the Three-Eyed Raven uses them as conduits for his visions. Bran learns to access these visions by touching the weirwood trees and tapping into their power. The Three-Eyed Raven's primary goal is to pass on his knowledge and abilities to Bran, preparing him to become the new Three-Eyed Raven. This transition is crucial in the overarching battle against the White Walkers and the Night King. In the TV series, the Three-Eyed Raven is initially portrayed by Struan Rodger in Season 4 and later by Max von Sydow in Seasons 6. Brynden Rivers' complex history and transformation into the Three-Eyed Crow make him a fascinating and pivotal character in the lore of A Song of Ice and Fire , and his role is central to Bran Stark's development. Follow @ Westerosies and @ NexusPointNews for more updates from HBO's Game of Thrones Universe.

WARNING: This review contains spoilers for The Dragon Prince Season 6. The Dragon Prince returns with a season filled with rich character moments and new exciting lore. The series finally fives more insight into its main villain Aaravos and I must say it is a tricky one. Viren's Redemption The standout storyline of the season is Viren's emotional turmoil. Devastated by the realization that he has led his daughter Claudia down a path of darkness and corruption, Viren is overcome with remorse. He has also failed his son, Soren, in his quest to save Aaravos. Desperate to make things right, Viren surrenders to Katolis and is imprisoned. While in prison, Viren pleads with Soren, but Soren rightfully refuses to forgive him. It is revealed that Viren began using dark magic to save Soren when he was a baby suffering from a severe illness. This desperate act initiated his corruption and ultimately drove his wife away. Years of darkness and corruption have clouded Viren's memory of why he started down this path in the first place. Viren's cruelty toward his son and his influence on Claudia to follow his dark path weigh heavily on him. He now remembers his original intentions and regrets everything he has done. In a heartwrenching moment, he tells Claudia, "You do anything for your children, not the other way around." Despite recognizing his mistakes, he still neglects to address Claudia, who is almost beyond saving. Viren wants to explain to Soren why he did what he did but realizes that the truth would only burden his son. It wouldn't make Soren feel better; instead, it would make him feel terrible for being the cause of all the bloodshed and catastrophes. In this moment, Viren finally acts like a father and chooses to protect his son from further pain. And Viren finally gets his redemption by sacrificing himself to protect innocent people. Callum and Rayla: Quest For Love Callum and Rayla go on a quest to stop Aaravos and save Rayla's parents. This adventure, however, is as much about their personal journey as it is about their mission. Deep down, it is about Callum and Rayla coming to terms with their love for each other and learning to accept it. As they set out on their quest, the tension between their sense of duty and their love for each other becomes increasingly apparent. Callum, always the supportive partner, stands by Rayla's side, but he cannot ignore the emotional distance that her dedication to larger causes often creates. Rayla, torn between her commitment to the greater good and her feelings for Callum, struggles to find a balance. During their journey, Rayla discovers the diary of Esmeralda, a legendary captain who once faced a similar dilemma. Esmeralda chose adventure over love and was left with a lifetime of regret. Her writings resonate deeply with Rayla, who sees a reflection of her own life in Esmeralda's story. Rayla has abandoned Callum before, prioritizing her mission over their relationship. The diary becomes a mirror that shows Rayla the potential consequences of continuing down that path. When they eventually reach to The Starscraper, we get to see that the darkness and doubt inside Callum is fixed by one big truth: his love for Rayla. However, the journey to the Starscraper offers much more than personal revelations. It introduces the Celestial Elves. The design and aesthetics of the Celestial Elves, the Starscraper, and the surrounding heavens are nothing short of stunning and make this mystical place feel both ancient and otherworldly. The ethereal beauty and intricate details of these elements elevate the series' fairytale-like nature. Claudia and Aaravos: "However dangerous, however vile..." Being abandoned by her mother, brother, friends, and father, Claudia faces a profound identity crisis. Racquel Belmonte brings incredible depth and emotion to the character, you have no choice but to feel sympathy for her plight despite her terrible actions. While there is a glimpse of hope for her character when she decides to give up dark magic, it lasts until she finds her dad's body under the ruins and she falls for Aaravos's manipulations once again. Aaravos, the master manipulator, is great at influencing not only the characters within the series but also the audience. His tragic backstory—losing his daughter, the sea of Castout being formed from his tears of a hundred years, and his prison being his daughter's carcass—paints a picture of sorrow and evokes so much sympathy for the character. I felt bad for him, but then again he didn't even give Claudia time to grief before starting to use her for his own gain. Even Terry suggests that the narrative is twisted and driven by revenge, there must be more to Aaravos's story than what is initially presented. There was a point where I thought the series nuanced portrayal of the characters would extend to Aaravos as well, but I believe we have to wait for the final season to find that out. The penultimate season of The Dragon Prince delivers a captivating blend of emotional depth, rich character development and world-building. The series continues to make the audience empathize with almost every character by providing thoughtful backstories and compelling motivations.  It's refreshing to see a narrative where characters are not portrayed as evil for the sake of being evil, but rather as complex individuals shaped by their experiences and choices. Rating: 4/5 The Dragon Prince Season 6 is now streaming on Netflix.

The World of Ice and Fire is expanding, and it's much bigger than some who are unfamiliar with author George R.R. Martin's work would think. However, the question we must ask ourselves is which projects are joining Game of Thrones , House of the Dragon , and the newly put into production, A Knight of the Seven Kingdoms : The Hedge Knight , in HBO's fantasy-epic cinematic universe. Join us as we dive into all the projects that are potentially looking to go into production and some that have been moved onto the shelf.   LIVE-ACTION PRODUCTIONS   Aegon’s Conquest:   Before the Dragons reigned over the Seven Kingdoms, Westeros was divided between seven squabbling kings who were almost always at war with one another. Under the reign of the First High King, Aegon the Conqueror, Westeros, apart from Dorne for some time, would know only one ruler. An Aegon’s Conquest live-action series will likely follow King Aegon Targaryen and his sister-wives, Queen Visenya and Queen Rhaenys, as they used their dragons and military might to conquer and unite Westeros under the Targaryen Dynasty. Together forging the Iron Throne and the very realm we came to adoration within HBO's Game of Thrones. Although the story of the conquest may appear to be quite flashy, with great dragons burning castles and fields and beautiful and astute silver-haired Valyrians upon their backs, there has been deep speculation and concern revolving around the series from fans online. From one perspective, some fans believe the story of the conquest to be dull due to the perceived easy victory the conquerors faced against their foes. Some others, however, feel as though the figures of King Aegon, Queen Visenya, and Queen Rhaenys are so illustrious that they are simply too grand to be correctly depicted on screen at the hands of a writer other than perhaps George R.R. Martin himself.   After their experience with the final seasons of Game of Thrones, as well as their concerns about its successor series, House of the Dragon, it is not unreasonable for some fans to feel as they do in regards to how the narrative would be written and its characters depicted. However, the concerns of an uninteresting series fall short. As a serialized drama, it would be intriguing to depict the conflict of the conquest from the perspectives of both the conquerors and the kings they faced in battle. This duality may add a deep layer of complexity to the story without whitewashing the horrific actions and laws of some of the kings that came to an end with Aegon's Conquest. It is said that those who forget the past are doomed to repeat it. With this framework in mind, fans of the conquerors may hold onto the hope that should the right hand be tapped to tell Aegon, Visenya, and Rhaenys' story, they will do so with a remembrance of the past and care for the future. Currently, writer Mattson Tomlin (The Batman Part II) is attached to pen the series for HBO, we wish him godspeed. A Knight of the Seven Kingdoms: The Hedge Knight The story follows the adventures of a lowly knight, “Dunk” (Ser Duncan the Tall), and his squire, “Egg” (future King Aegon V Targaryen), as they venture throughout parts of Westeros reeling from the Blackfyre rebellions.   The official synopsis from HBO is as follows: “A century before the events of Game of Thrones , two unlikely heroes wandered Westeros... a young, naïve but courageous knight, Ser Duncan the Tall, and his diminutive squire, Egg. Set in an age when the Targaryen line still holds the Iron Throne and the memory of the last dragon has not yet passed from living memory, great destinies, powerful foes, and dangerous exploits all await these improbable and incomparable friends.”   Based on George R.R. Martin’s Tales of Dunk & Egg stories, beloved by fans, this series has the potential to capture an entirely new audience while holding to its existing one through Game of Thrones and House of the Dragon. Peter Claffey will portray Ser Duncan the Tall (Dunk), while Dexter Sol Ansell will portray Prince Aegon Targaryen (Egg). Peter is a former rugby player turned actor who is 6'5 tall. His audition readings were said to be " terrific ." Dexter is a child acting veteran who most recently starred as a child Coriolanus Snow in The Hunger Games: The Ballad of Songbirds & Snakes. We have been told that Dexter's audition readings were great as well and that he cannot wait to shave his head . The series is currently set to begin filming in June in Ireland for a 2025 premiere, with writers Steve Conrad, Hiram R. Martinez, Annie Julia Wyman, Aziza Barnes, and Ti Mikkel attached to write. We are wishing the best of luck and success to both actors and writers as they start this new, sure-to-be life-changing journey. Nymeria; 10,000 Ships Set roughly a thousand years before the events of Game of Thrones, the story follows Princess Nymeria and the Rhoynar. The power of the Valyrian Empire was too strong to resist; thus, Nymeria launched an exodus from Essos in search of a new home. After wandering across the Narrow Sea, Nymeria eventually found and settled in Dorne, where she set the fleet of 10,000 ships ablaze to ensure her people would not leave. This adventure would depict the story of the birth of House Martell as the ruler of a united Dorne and how Princess Nymeria became so revered throughout Westeros. Given the little care Dorne and the Dornish are given in HBO's Game of Thrones compared to their A Song of Ice and Fire source-material counterparts, a series where they take prominence and centrefold may be what fans of the exotic and powerful House have been waiting years for. As per their last update on the spin-off, Deadline reported that writer Amanda Segel is currently in place to pen the series. Writer Brian Helgeland recently stated he was also attached to writing the show and had met with author George R.R. Martin himself, who approved of his idea for the show; however, it was not picked up by HBO. However, on June 11 2024, author George R.R. Martin took to his blog to state that a script for shows pilot is currently being developed: We’re all very excited about this one… though we’re still trying to figure out how we’re going to pay for  ten thousand ships, three hundred dragons, and those giant turtles.   ANIMATED PRODUCTIONS: The 9 Voyages of the Sea Snake Lord Corlys Velaryon, born in 53 AC, was renowned within the Seven Kingdoms and beyond as the greatest seafarer of his age. House Velaryon's origins began as a smaller vassal house to the great House Targaryen. Like the Dragonlords, the Velaryons had made their exodus from Valyria before the coming calamity of the Doom, prophesied by Daenys, the Dreamer. Unlike the Targaryens, however, the Velaryons were not dragonlords, nor did they share a direct connection of control over the dragons. The sea was always their home.   The story is said to follow a younger Corlys as he navigates the dangers of the unknown world in search of knowledge, treasure, and power. The potential for a tale of adventure, romance, and trials and tribulations is vast, which could also lead us to discover details of a score of diverse cultures and locations within the World of Ice and Fire that were previously untold. The series was originally intended to be live-action but was then moved over to animation, with author George R.R. Martin citing a better chance at accurately depicting the epic events.   Will we see ‘House of the Dragon’ star Steve Toussaint reprise his role as the voice actor for the Sea Lord? While likely, that remains to be seen. If so, it would give both Steve and the audience a chance to explore more of what makes Corlys such an epic character. Currently, the series remains in development with no writer or creator attached.   THE GOLDEN EMPIRE of Yi Ti   Inspired by Imperial China, Yi Ti was a powerful and vastly wealthy empire in Essos. Its regions lie east of Qarth and the Bone Mountains and are bordered by the Jade Sea to the south.   The history of the Golden Empire of Yi Ti dates back thousands of years in George R. R. Martin's A Song of Ice and Fire series, taking special prominence in his World of Ice and Fire book published in 2014. Yi Ti is signified by its vast ancient civilization and rich cultural tapestry, which have been the subject of numerous great wars, dynasties rising and falling, internal struggles, and external conflicts. Significantly, however, Yi Ti is legendarily wealthy, paying tribute to its name, the ‘Golden Empire.’ Yi Ti’s princes were said to live in houses of solid gold and to eat sweetmeats with pearls and jade powdered over them. While Yi Ti’s present-day conflicts may not be as glamorous as its ancient histories, the power of animation can see any period within its long reign flamboyantly brought to life.   The animated series will likely follow a new set of characters of East Asian descent as they navigate this region of the world and its trials. The possibilities of what this will entail are endless, with the potential to set up even more stories within the World of Ice and Fire. The series is currently in development, with no further details at this time.   Untitled World of Ice and Fire Animated Series What era, period, or conflict the series will depict is currently a mystery, but the possibilities are endless. Fans have long expressed a desire to see Game of Thrones’ source material, ‘A Song of Ice and Fire,’ be made into an animated fantasy epic that accurately depicts the writings from the text and includes all omitted storylines not featured in the live-action series, perhaps most famously, Lady Stoneheart. Through animation, the vibrant world that George R.R. Martin created would come to full and accurate prominence. The question we must now ask ourselves is if HBO is prepared to reboot ‘Game of Thrones’ in animation rather than give a second live-action series another go some years down the line. Author George R.R. Martin sat down with OxfordWriters’House to talk about Writing Fantasy. According to George R.R. Martin co-authors, Elio and Linda , seven shows are currently in development: Per @GRRMspeaking remarks at this talk, there are currently 7 shows in various stages of development, 3 live action, 4 animated. We knew of 2 ( Aegon the Conqueror , Ten Thousand Ships ) and 2 ( The Golden Empire , Sea Snake ), as I recall. When questioned if the untitled live-action show being referred to was the newest addition to the Game of Thrones Universe , A Knight of the Seven Kingdoms (that had recently begun filming), Elio and Linda stated : No, he already noted HotD and that Knight of the Seven Kingdoms were already filming. The other seven shows were in development. No promises any would get greenlit, but that's where things currently stand. SHELVED or CANCELED PRODUCTIONS:   Snow: A Game of Thrones Sequel Story Kit Harington's portrayal of the iconic A Song of Ice and Fire character, Jon Snow, has become an internationally beloved pop-culture figure. From his neglected upbringing to his humble rise to power, fans rejoiced in seeing Jon's growth within the early seasons of Game of Thrones . However, many feel that within the final two seasons of the show, the characterization of the bastard turned Royal Heir negatively impacted who Jon Snow was.   In the series finale of the immortalized Game of Thrones drama, we witness Jon Snow venture beyond the wall in the company of wildlings, as well as his loyal canine companion, Ghost. This followed after Jon was banished to the wall in service of the Night's Watch by the newly coordinated King Bran Stark for the murder of Queen Daenerys Targaryen.   However, this decree was hardly a punishment for Jon Snow. After his service to the Realms of Man as a Black Brother and King in the North, Jon had come to desire a quiet and peaceful life. The question we ask today is: What does this mean for what his future story could hold?   Let's start with what we know. At the end of the series, the lands of Westeros looked to be settling in for a new, long age of peace, one perhaps not seen since the age of the Old King, Jaehaerys I Targaryen. With the summit for who would become the new ruler of the Seven Kingdoms attended by all corners of those who held major power in Westeros, it's hard to imagine conflict in civil war sprouting. This is especially true against a king who possesses abilities as powerful as those of the Three-Eyed Raven.   Luckily, this leaves room for powerful threats beyond the Seven Kingdoms and a perfect way to expand on the world Game of Thrones left. With no source material to adapt, the writers of the 'SNOW' spin-off series have free reign to create new and exciting antagonistic forces. A major potential controversy attached to the project is the return and resurrection of Queen Daenerys Targaryen, whose body was taken by Drogon after her death.   However, the potential spinoff series has now been shelved by HBO. Kit Harington had this to say: “We bounced some ideas around and nothing lit us up... HBO cares about the character a lot and I care about the character a lot, and we don't want to put out something that is going to sully the character. That's the worst thing that we could do... unless we find something in the future that lands, there's no point in rushing it. There's no point in keeping developing for development's sake and doing something that I don't want to do.”   Will we ever see Jon Snow and the rest of the Westeros gang return? That seems to be a question for the future. For now, our watch has begun. Flea Bottom Flea Bottom is notoriously known as the poorest slum district in the capital city of King's Landing. The slum is described as maze-like, with ramshackle buildings, dark alleys, and a population filled with suspicious people. Located on the lower eastern side of Rhaneys' Hill, life in this subsection is distinctly difficult. The spin-off series would have told the story of life in Westeros through the eyes of not the high lords or powerful kings and queens who play their game of thrones, but instead the lowly and poor common folk who suffer through their schemes. Notable characters such as Ser Davos Seaworth, Gendry Waters (now Baratheon), and Karl Turner all hail from Flea Bottom and, distinctly throughout the series, give descriptions of how fowl they found life there. Unfortunately, the series was axed by HBO. Will we ever have a series based on the experiences of the common folk in Westeros come to life? Or perhaps the more important question we must ask ourselves is: do we care? While it may not be as glamorous as a story that follows monarchs vying for power, it would surely give a unique and compelling perspective on how those with no power fought for their survival under the thumb of war, famine, and possibly even dragon fire. Empire of Ash: Doom of Valyria The Doom of Valyria is widely known as one of the most significant historical events to ever occur within the World of Ice and Fire. From this epoch, several grand consequences followed that changed the landscape and foundations of nations and cultures across the world. It was in fear of this calamity that House Targaryen led an exodus from the Valyrian freehold to Dragonstone 12 years prior, at the behest of the legendary Daenys Targaryen, famously and forever after known as Daenys the Dreamer. The disaster eventually led to the coming of King Aegon the Conqueror, who was said to look west to the lands of Westeros to see a lustrous and powerful future compared to the dead and forgotten past in the east. A Doom of Valyria series, then titled 'Empire of Ash,' was to either directly follow the story of the Targaryens just before they fled the Empire or a new set of Valyrians as they fell victim to the great calamity. Although this project was shelved, the potential for it to have a new life somewhere along the line at HBO is never out of the question. The Empire of Valyria was characterized by its advanced distinction from the rest of the world, with both sorcery and innovation at its height before the Fourteen Flames volcano range spewed fire so hot that even dragons burned up in flight. A chance to see what was known as the 'greatest civilization in history' at its apex before it all came crashing down would be a spectacle to behold. Bloodmoon Bloodmoon was the very first Game of Thrones spin-off series to receive a green light and go into production, while Jane Goldman was attached as head writer and showrunner of the series. A pilot episode was filmed but was met with a lacklustre reception from studio heads, which prompted its cancellation. The official synopsis was as follows: “Taking place thousands of years before the events of Game of Thrones, the series chronicles the world’s descent from the golden Age of Heroes into its darkest hour. And only one thing is for sure: From the horrifying secrets of Westeros’ history to the true origin of the white walkers, the mysteries of the East, to the Starks of legend… it’s not the story we think we know.” The series would have told the story of how the Children of the Forest came to their breaking point to create the Night King as part of their defence from the growing number of ruthless species of man, throwing the realm into the first Long Night. Naomi Watts was attached to star as Morven Casterly, a 'charismatic socialite hiding a dark secret,' alongside Josh Whitehouse, who was to portray a Stark. Other members of the cast included Toby Regbo, who was to play a Casterly King, and Alex Sharp, who was to play Regbo's lover. Recently, some behind-the-scenes images of the pilot were released online, giving fans a glimpse of the tale that never came to fruition. It may be possible that we would be given the chance to witness the pilot episode in its entirety one day, but it is also not very likely. With the little information that has been released regarding a rumoured disastrous plot and its implication for the characters, there are times when a series cancellation is for the best. For now, we ponder the dreams of what could have been.   Follow @ Westerosies and @ NexusPointNews for more updates on HBO's expanding Game of Thrones Universe .