Pre-order your signed copy of Morning Glories vol 2

Morning Glory Academy is one of the most prestigious prep schools in the country… but something sinister and deadly lurks behind its walls. When six gifted but troubled students arrive, they find themselves trapped and fighting for their lives as the secrets of the academy reveal themselves! Collecting the second story arc of the smash series in one volume, here you learn some of the secrets in the Glories’ lives as the stories delve into their past and show how it affects their present. Each chapter focuses on a different Glory while maintaining the narrative and moving the mystery forward.

Nick Spencer is a comic book writer known for his creator-owned titles at Image Comics. While in college, Nick wrote three pitches to Marvel Comics soon after the Marvel Knights imprint launched in 1998. According to Spencer, ‘Joe [Quesada] didn’t like the first two but the third one was a Black Cat pitch that was a Jackie Brown kind of Tarantino-esque thing. He said he liked that one but they weren’t going to do anything with anybody new at the time.’ Nick went on to work in other fields, including politics and music, before he successfully pitched Existence 2.0 to Jim Valentino of Image Comics. The first issue was released in July 2009. Nick has also written THE INFINITE VACATION, ULTIMATE COMICS X-MEN, CLOAK & DAGGER, VICTOR VON DOOM, T.H.U.N.D.E.R. AGENTS and THIEF OF THIEVES.

Pre-order your signed copy of Morning Glories volume 2 from Forbidden Planet!

Forbidden Planet is the largest store of its kind in the world. Some of the biggest names in Sci-Fi, Fantasy, Comics and Cult Entertainment have come to our London Megastore for signing events, including: Neil Gaiman, Terry Pratchett, Terry Gilliam, Simon Pegg, William Gibson, Mark Millar, Guillermo Del Toro, Brian Froud and Stephen King.

For more news about Forbidden Planet’s signings please go to: http://www.forbiddenplanet.com/events

The UK’s leading science fiction and fantastic film festival, SCI-FI-LONDON (The London International Festival of Science Fiction and Fantastic Film), lands in Camden Town for its notorious OKTOBERFEST screenings, special events, workshops and celebrations during 3 days of festival from 7 – 9 October 2011.

Oktoberfest is the mini-version of SCI-FI-LONDON and takes place at the Odeon Camden, Camden Head and the new Cyber Market.

FESTIVAL ALSO INCLUDES:

Rob Deb’s Sci-Fi-Cabaret Fri 7 Oct , 20.00 – Camden Head Geek stand-up comedian and festival regular, Rob Deb hosts an evening of truly nerdy stand-up comedy, a little magic, and burlesque that includes Sophia Disgrace’s Darth Vader routine… Comedians include award-winning and critically acclaimed Bec Hill, fresh from sold-out shows at the Edinburgh Fringe.

Animé All-Nighter – Sat 8 Oct (from 11.30pm until Sun AM 9th) – Odeon Camden Our infamous Animé All-nighter screenings are packed with the best in Japanese animation, as one would expect. Alongside the classic JIN ROH: The Wolf Brigade, we are delighted to be screening TEKKEN BLOOD VENGENCE – the amazing CGI smash from Japan. We also screen TRIGUN BADLANDS RUMBLE, the first Trigun movie for 10 years!

MST3K All-Nighter – Sat 8 Oct (from 11.30pm until Sun AM 9th) MST3K (Mystery Science Theater 3000 to the uninitiated) is on the bill, with five movies back-to-back… the line up is yet to be announced, but watch out for Pod People around Camden. If you have never tried an all-nighter before, come to the MST3K night, you will be up all evening in the company of some lovely people, laughing yourself stupid!

Another Earth (USA 2011, Mike Cahill) Sat 8 Oct, 21.30hrs, Odeon Camden. Winner of the Sloan Award at Sundance, this beautiful and intelligent drama unfolds when a duplicate Earth is discovered behind our sun and the impact this has on the lives of a young scientist and a widowed composer. This is science fiction at its best and demonstrates how great storytelling can be achieved in film even on a modest budget.

The Divide (USA 2011, Xavier Gens) Sat 8 Oct, 19.00hrs, Odeon Camden. In the near future, New York City is destroyed by an apocalyptic event; eight survivors hide in the basement of their large apartment building which has now been reduced to rubble. The survivors must find another way to escape as well as maintain their own sanity in order to survive. The Divide portrays an unremittingly bleak and brutal view of a post-apocalyptic world. Stars Michael Biehn, Rosanna Arquette, Milo Ventimiglia

Phase 7 (Argentina 2010, Nicolás Goldbart) – UK PREMIERE Sat 8 Oct, 16.30hrs, Odeon Camden. As a pandemic spreads through Buenos Aires, Coco wants to protect his pregnant wife, Pipi. He joins forces in their quarantined apartment building with his well-armed neighbour, Horacio. A gory and sometimes funny post-apocalyptic film that draws much from the horror maestro, John Carpenter.

Helldriver (JAPAN 2011, Yoshihiro Nishimura) Sun 9 Oct, 16.45hrs, Odeon Camden It’s near future Japan and Kika, a teenage girl living on the run with her father, is trying to stay away from her mother and uncle, a pair of psychotic cannibals. When a meteorite saves Kika’s life, it triggers a zombie outbreak. In order to contain the zombies a massive wall, the entire width of the country, is built. Kika becomes a chainsaw-katana wielding zombie slayer, and a bloody gorefest ensues. Think of it as an over-the-top Japanese version of Neil Marshall’s DOOMSDAY, filled with everything you’d expect from Yoshihiro Nishmura, the legendary effects artist and the maker of TOKYO GORE POLICE.

By Day And By Night (Mexico 2011, Alejandro Molina) Sun 9 Oct, 14.30hrs, Odeon Camden In a world where overpopulation is out-of-control, the government’s solution has been to implant an enzyme into people’s DNA. The enzyme determines whether people are active during the day or the night. Within this world, Aurora has lost her daughter and Urbane, a scientist, discovers a lost child – but from which part of society?
Stunning cinematography in a palette of grays and blues, with stylish production design, this is visual treat that explores our roles in society and whether we can deviate from our destiny.

Tickets are on sale now from the Odeon box office – odeon.co.uk or 0871 22 44 007.

Full details at Sci-Fi-London.com

Another wild and wacky adventure from the Master of Far Fetched Fiction!

Robert Rankin is one of the great British eccentrics, standing alongside Viv Stanshall, Spike Milligan and Neil Innes, amongst others. ‘To call Rankin irreverent doesn’t begin to describe just how very good he is at playing with the rules’, says the MIRROR, while THE DAILY EXPRESS says: ‘Everybody should read at least one Robert Rankin in their life’ – and it’s right. THE INDEPENDENT maintains: ‘He is an author best read in large doses. His impressively individual style means that he becomes funnier the more you read him’, THE OBSERVER admires ‘ the stark raving genius of Rankin . . . the plot comes together with alarming and deformed brilliance’ and the MAIL ON SUNDAY claims ‘Rankin does for England what Spike Milligan does for Ireland. There can be no higher praise’. MAXIM calls him ‘Fiendishly clever and joyously funny . . . a brilliant imagination’, and SFX think he’s ‘Oscar Wilde meets Kurt Vonnegut in the genetics lab of classic fantasy humour’. The newest opus from the Master of Far Fetched Fiction will enhance his reputation even further: it’s time to stop Rankin being a hidden gem and make him the National Treasure his fans already believe him to be.

Forbidden Planet is the largest store of its kind in the world. Some of the biggest names in Sci-Fi, Fantasy and Horror have come to our London Megastore for signings including: Neil Gaiman, Terry Pratchett, Terry Gilliam, Simon Pegg, William Gibson, Mark Millar, Guillermo Del Toro, Brian Froud and Stephen King.

For more news about Forbidden Planet’s signings please go to: http://www.forbiddenplanet.com/events

The Legion of Super-Heroes finds itself stranded in a distant galaxy, on the home planet of the vicious alien race known as the Progeny, in this new hardcover collecting the cult favourite 12-issue epic. While some of our heroes struggle to repair their damaged spaceship, the rest attempt to forge an alliance with the peaceful Kwai. But can the Legion help the Kwai defeat their oppressors and still make their way back home to Earth?

Dan lives and works in Maidstone, Kent. He has laudable pile of comic titles to his credit, including work for both Marvel and DC; he’s also been one of 2000AD’s most prolific writers. He’s the Black Library’s leading author, and writes standalone novels for Angry Robot Books.

Andy work has included inks for Marvel and DC and pencils for his own creation, The Sleeze Brothers. His writing has included his and Dan’s relaunch of The Legion of Super-Heroes. He and Dan have also worked together on an ongoing Nova series for Marvel and the latest incarnation of The Authority, as part of the World’s End relaunch of the core Wildstorm titles.

Forbidden Planet is the largest store of its kind in the world. Some of the biggest names in Sci-Fi, Fantasy, Comics and Cult Entertainment have come to our London Megastore for signing events, including: Neil Gaiman, Terry Pratchett, Terry Gilliam, Simon Pegg, William Gibson, Mark Millar, Guillermo Del Toro, Brian Froud and Stephen King.

For more news about Forbidden Planet’s signings please go to: http://www.forbiddenplanet.com/events

Tara is based in New York City and creates art about people and their odd ways. Recalling many issues from childhood and good old life experience, she creates images that are thought provoking and seductive. People and their relationships are a central theme throughout her work.

Tara exhibits her paintings and serigraphs in fine art galleries all over the world. Named the crown princess of poster art by ELLE Magazine, she has created numerous gig posters for rock bands such as Beck, Modest Mouse, and Melvins. Her array of art also includes painted comics and covers for various high-profile companies and she has created toys with KidRobot. Her art has also been featured in the Oscar Award winning film Juno, Veronica Mars, Point Pleasant, and Guitar Hero.

Forbidden Planet is the largest store of its kind in the world. Some of the biggest names in Sci-Fi, Fantasy, Comics and Cult Entertainment have come to our London Megastore for signing events, including: Neil Gaiman, Terry Pratchett, Simon Pegg, William Gibson, Mark Millar, Guillermo Del Toro, Brian Froud and Stephen King.

For more news about Forbidden Planet’s signings please go to http://forbiddenplanet.com/events/

Three epic films gain another dimension by playing on 40ft outdoor screen in the glorious setting of Dartington’s Tiltyard. Bring a blanket, a picnic, sit back and enjoy. Films begin at sundown and play rain or shine.

Avatar [12A] – Sunday 4 September / 9pm approx
A paraplegic marine dispatched to the moon Pandora on a unique mission becomes torn between following his orders and protecting the world he feels is his home.

Pan’s Labyrinth [15] – Monday 5 September / 9pm approx
In the fascist Spain of 1944, the bookish young stepdaughter of a sadistic army officer escapes into an eerie but captivating fantasy world.

Cowboys & Aliens [12A] – Wednesday 7 September / 9pm approx
A spaceship arrives in Arizona, 1873, to take over the Earth starting with the Wild West region. A posse of cowboys are all that stand in their way.

Ticket deal: Buy a ticket in advance for one screening and get another night for half price. Book online.

Box Office: 01803 847070 | www.dartington.org/arts
The Barn, Dartington Hall, Totnes, Devon TQ9 6EL
Opening Hours
Monday – Sunday 12.30 – 19.00 (and 1 hour prior to events)

Forbidden Planet is pleased to announce a special signing by Peter Hogan & Chris Sprouse for their graphic novel Tom Strong and the Robots of Doom (Titan edition) at the Forbidden Planet Megastore, 179 Shaftesbury Avenue, London, WC2H 8JR, on Thursday 25th August 6 – 7pm

As Tom Strong and his family prepare to celebrate a wedding, the unthinkable happens: before their eyes, reality alters to become a world conquered by Nazis and ruled by Tom’s nefarious son, Albrecht. To restore the world he knew, Tom must journey back in time and seek help from the only man he can trust: himself. But will even two Tom Strongs be enough to stop the Robots of Doom?

Chris Sprouse first met Alan Moore when he drew several issues of Moore’s script for Supreme. A year later, he and Moore created Tom Strong for America’s Best Comics, for which Chris won two Eisner Awards in 2000, for Best Single Issue and Best Serialized Story. Taking over the scripting of Tom Strong, Peter K. Hogan started out as editor of cult political British comics Crisis and Revolver in the late 1980s and early 1990s, before working for 2000 AD and American comic book publishers Vertigo and America’s Best Comics.

Forbidden Planet is the largest store of its kind in the world. Some of the biggest names in Sci-Fi, Fantasy, Comics and Cult Entertainment have come to our London Megastore for signing events, including: Kevin Smith, Terry Gilliam, Guillermo del Toro, Sam Raimi, Neil Gaiman, Terry Pratchett, Simon Pegg, William Gibson, Mark Millar, Brian Froud and Stephen King.

For more news about Forbidden Planet’s signings please go to: http://www.forbiddenplanet.com/events

Forbidden Planet is pleased to announce a signing by Garth Ennis for Highland Laddie, The Boys Vol. 8 at the Forbidden Planet Megastore, 179 Shaftesbury Avenue, London, WC2H 8JR, on Sunday 21st August 1 – 2pm.

Mind reeling from recent events in The Boys, Wee Hughie heads home to Auchterladle – the semi-idyllic Scottish seaside town where he grew up. All Hughie wants is some time to himself, to return to the bosom of family and friends, and get his head together after two years of unimaginable chaos. But our hero’s luck has always been more cloud than silver lining, and the familiar surroundings he craves are not all they might be. You can go home again – but with old pals warped beyond recognition and strangers in town up to no good, whether or not you should is another matter entirely…

Collecting the origin story of everyone’s favourite pint-sized Scotsman, this edition features art by Herogasm artist John McCrea and a special cover gallery from artist Darick Robertson.

GARTH ENNIS is the award-winning writer of Hellblazer, Hitman, Punisher, Preacher, Pride and Joy and War Stories. He is much in demand for his hard-edged, wickedly humorous style.

Forbidden Planet is the largest store of its kind in the world. Some of the biggest names in Sci-Fi, Fantasy and Horror have come to our London Megastore for signings including: Guillermo del Toro, Sam Raimi, Edgar Wright, Jonathan Ross, Neil Gaiman, Terry Gilliam, Simon Pegg, William Gibson and Stephen King.

For more news about Forbidden Planet’s signings please go to: http://www.forbiddenplanet.com/events

Warner Bros. is thrilled to announce that Warner Bros. Studio Tour London – The Making of Harry Potter will be featured at Empire Presents BIG SCREEN at The O2 on Sunday 14th August 2011.

Warner Bros. Studio Tour London – The Making of Harry Potter is a behind-the-scenes walking tour scheduled to open in Spring 2012. The unique tour will give visitors the first ever chance to visit the real Harry Potter film sets to learn more about the workings of the breathtaking special effects and the incredible animatronics, as well as experience the sheer scale and incredible detail of the sets used by the cast and crew on all the films.

Details for the UK’s most highly anticipated visitor attraction will be revealed in a special live showcase at Empire Presents BIG SCREEN event on Sunday, 14th August at 16:30 (GMT) within indigO2 at London’s The O2 and will be shared by special guests from the cast and crew from the most successful film series of all time, Harry Potter. The event will culminate with an exciting announcement that both film and Harry Potter fans will not want to miss.

Empire Presents BIG SCREEN is a new live movie event at The O2 which runs from 12th to 14th August 2011. Tickets can be purchased from www.empirebigscreen.com.

Guests who have purchased a ticket to the BIG SCREEN event who wish to attend the special live showcase regarding “Warner Bros. Studio Tour – The Making of Harry Potter” need to book their seat within the session from 12:00 (GMT) on Friday 22nd July 2011 as seating and admission is limited and will be done on a first come, first served basis only.

For further information and details on Warner Bros Studio Tour London – The Making of Harry Potter please visit www.wbstudiotour.co.uk.

For information details and tickets for the Empire Presents BIG SCREEN go to: www.empirebigscreen.com

Kim Newman’s Chamber of Horrors at the Empire Presents BIG SCREEN has a range of great sessions for hard core horror fans. The sessions taking place over the weekend of the 12th – 14th of August are:

Friday August 12

Panel – The Eternal Appeal Of Dracula: Kim Newman, author of Anno Dracula, discusses the eternal fascination Bram Stoker’s great vampire has held over film and books.

On Stage: Tom Six And The Human Centipede Censorship Crisis: Incendiary horror director Tom Six and producer Ilona Six will be at Big Screen to defend their shocking sequel, The Human Centipede 2, recently refused a certificate by the BBFC. As they appeal the decision and the film heads to a US release, this is a rare chance to put your questions to the controversial filmmaker.

The Signal Screening: Every cell phone, radio and television starts sending out signals causing psychotic chaos. “It’s a really weird virus outbreak movie, and not enough people have seen it…” says Kim Newman. Directed by David Bruckner, Dan Bush and Jacob Gentry.

Hardware Screening: Arguably one of the most influential British horror debuts of the last 25 years, mixing dystopian sci-fi, killer robots and a grunge aesthetic to startling effect.

Red State Advance Preview: Director Kevin Smith’s eagerly anticipated venture into the horror genre, although not without a satirical edge, finds a group of sex-seeking teens falling into the clutches of terrifying fundamentalists.

Saturday August 13

Footage: Kill List, presented by director Ben Wheatley. Plus Footage: Don’t Be Afraid Of The Dark.

Rogue Screening: The best man-eating crocodile movie you will see all weekend. Directed by Greg McLean. According to Kim Newman, “It’s better than McLean’s famous Wolf Creek!”

Hammer Horror Special: Join horror expert Kim Newman, and Hammer Films executives Ben Holden and Nic Ransome, to recall growing up with the British horror institution and the recent reinvention of the studio. Including a panel on the forthcoming Hammer adaptation of The Woman In Black.

To be followed by a double bill of Hammer old, Quatermass And The Pitt, and Hammer new, Wake Wood, as introduced by Kim Newman!

Sunday August 14

Tenebrae Screening: A fantastic opportunity to see the classic Dario Argento Rome-set serial killer flick on the big screen.

The House Of The Devil Screening: A college student takes a babysitting job at a remote house during a full moon. Need we say more? “Utterly terrifying, ’70s-flavoured horror,” says Empire editor Mark Dinning. Directed by Ti West.

Kim Newman’s Horror Quiz: Test yourself against the mind of the country’s leading horror expert and win prizes, the respect of your peers and a high standing in the undead community.

Special Screening – Don’t Look Now: One of the most provocative and powerful exercises in horror ever put on the screen.

For all additional information and tickets go to: www.empirebigscreen.com

Exploding into prominence in the early 70s, Foss’s aesthetic became the defining template for how we pictured the hardware of tomorrow. Dramatically raising the bar for realism and invention, his trademark battle-weary spacecraft, dramatic alien landscapes, blisteringly bright explosions and crumbling architecture irrevocably changed the aesthetic of science fiction art and cinema.

Featuring work for books by Isaac Asimov, E. E. ‘Doc’ Smith, Arthur C. Clarke, Douglas Adams and Philip K. Dick, and film design for Ridley Scott and Stanley Kubrick, Hardware brings together many rare and classic images.

Chris Foss’s innovative work revolutionised science fiction paperback art in the 70s and 80s. He has illustrated hundreds of books, including The Hitchhiker’s Guide to the Galaxy, The Bicentennial Man, and the original black and white edition of The Joy of Sex. He produced the UK paperback covers for Asimov’s Foundation Trilogy, worked with Moebius on concepts for the unrealised Jodorowsky Dune movie, with H.R. Geiger on Alien, as well as on Superman.

Forbidden Planet is the largest store of its kind in the world. Some of the biggest names in Sci-Fi, Fantasy, Comics and Cult Entertainment have come to our London Megastore for signing events, including: Neil Gaiman, Terry Pratchett, Terry Gilliam, Simon Pegg, William Gibson, Mark Millar, Guillermo Del Toro, Brian Froud and Stephen King.

For more news about Forbidden Planet’s signings please go to: http://www.forbiddenplanet.com/events

Empire is presenting a star studded movie extravaganza at the O2 Arena London from the 12th to 14th August. BIG SCREEN will open with the eagerly awaited UK premiere of Paramount Pictures’ Cowboys and Aliens with the cast of the film in attendance. The film, which is directed by Jon Favreau, (Iron Man, Iron Man 2) stars Daniel Craig and Harrison Ford and is tipped to be one of the hottest films of the year. As well as the star studded premiere, there will be special screenings on Friday, Saturday and Sunday – audiences will truly be able to see it first and exclusively at BIG SCREEN.

BIG SCREEN is also screening, as the UK premiere of DreamWorks Pictures’, Fright Night. The fangtastic movie stars Colin Farrell. David Tennant, who co-stars in the movie, will be there in person to welcome fans.

Empire Presents BIG SCREEN Ticketing
1 Day Diamond Ticket Prices start at £65

Attend all live BIG SCREEN Theatre sessions (three per day), plus one performance in the Special Effects Arena and 1 session in Cineworld



Standard Ticket £35

Attend four sessions on any one day – choose from performances in the Special Effects Arena and a diverse range of sessions in Cineworld – this could include one recorded session of the BIG SCREEN content



BIG SCREEN Exhibitions Free Entry

Visit Hollywood Boulevard and Studio City.

Full press release for BIG SCREEN below:

Empire Presents…BIG SCREEN – Bringing Hollywood to London The Live Movie Event

COWBOYS AND ALIENS, REAL STEEL, FRIGHT NIGHT, CONAN, PIXAR, THE MUPPETS, AARDMAN ANIMATION and STAR WARS Confirmed so far for Empire Presents BIG SCREEN

30th June 2011, London, UK – Bauer Media and Clarion Events are thrilled to unveil the plans for the most exciting movie event of the year as, Empire Presents….BIG SCREEN confirms just a taste of its amazing line-up.

With a choice of over 250 incredible things to do, including a chance to meet the stars, see live performances, a feast of premieres, exclusive screenings, worldwide debuts of new film footage, movie master classes, never before seen glimpses behind the world’s biggest films, Empire Presents … BIG SCREEN truly promises something for movie fans of all ages.

The movie extravaganza is being backed by all the big studios including Paramount Pictures, Walt Disney Pictures, Twentieth Century Fox, Sony Pictures, Marvel Studios, Warner Bros Pictures, Universal Pictures, Optimum Releasing, Pixar, Momentum Pictures, Lionsgate and Icon – and promises never before seen access to the inner workings of Hollywood and the biggest names in movies.

The star studded movie extravaganza which runs from 12th-14th August at the 02 will open with the eagerly awaited UK premiere of Paramount Pictures’ Cowboys And Aliens with the cast of the film in attendance. The film, which is directed by Jon Favreau, (Iron Man, Iron Man 2) stars Daniel Craig and Harrison Ford and is tipped to be one of the hottest films of the year. As well as the star studded premiere, there will be special screenings on Friday, Saturday and Sunday – audiences will truly be able to see it first and exclusively at BIG SCREEN.
And for Star Wars™ fans everywhere, attendees will hear from key members of the team from Industrial Light and Magic as they take us on a journey behind the scenes of the beloved films while revealing new content which will be found in the upcoming release of Star Wars: The Complete Saga on Blu-ray.  Visitors will also have a special opportunity to be photographed on part of a replica Star Wars set and take part in the Star Wars: Padawan Training School, a must for would-be Jedi everywhere!

Empire Presents BIG SCREEN is also delighted to announce that the coveted spot of closing night film has been confirmed as the UK premiere of DreamWorks Pictures’ Fright Night. The fangtastic movie stars Colin Farrell. David Tennant, who co-stars in the movie, will be there in person to welcome fans.

Audiences will be thrilled that, courtesy of Sony Pictures and Sony Pictures Animation, the geniuses behind the iconic Wallace And Gromit will be present to introduce highlights from their two brilliant new blockbusters Arthur Christmas and The Pirates! In An Adventure With Scientists and demonstrate first-hand how they bring these incredible characters to life.

The many exclusive screenings will also feature a chance for audiences to see before anyone else a host of huge upcoming blockbusters. Already confirmed are a very special screening of the much anticipated film adaptation of the phenomenal New York Times best seller The Help courtesy of DreamWorks Pictures, future comedy smash The Change-Up, starring Ryan Reynolds and Jason Bateman, courtesy of Universal Pictures; 5-star Empire reviewed new film The Guard followed by a Q&A with director John Martin McDonagh, and a screening of the refreshingly original new horror movie from Norway, TrollHunter, also supported with a cast Q&A. And Lionsgate will have an exciting presence with the eagerly awaited Conan The Barbarian 3D and will reveal all at a later date.

Audiences will get to see exclusive sneak peaks of a huge array of forthcoming blockbusters, including the likes of Guillermo Tel Toro-produced horror Don’t Be Afraid of the Dark: James Cameron’s Titanic 3D, the Justin Timberlake sci-fi In Time, Alien invasion movie The Darkest Hour, Abraham Lincoln: Vampire Hunter. While fans of huge home-grown talent will be treated to exclusive footage from Daniel Radcliffe’s up-coming ghostly hit The Woman in Black and a sneak peak at the hugely anticipated adaption of John Le Carre’s Tinker, Tailor, Soldier, Spy starring Gary Oldman and Colin Firth.

Indeed, the weekend offers something for everyone with everything from animal shows starring the world’s most loved furry movie stars, to an exclusive performance by celebrated dance group Flawless who will be teaching fans a routine from Street Dance, to demonstrations by the industry’s most respected visual effects houses.

We are delighted to announce that the director of Real Steel, Shawn Levy (Night at the Museum, Date Night), will be attending in person to present a sneak peek from the October 7th release. In addition to showing footage from the movie, Shawn will also be discussing the amazing techniques he used in bringing the movie to the big screen. It promises to be a hugely entertaining experience, with the chance to see one of Hollywood’s top directors describing in person how he created what promises to be one of the most thrilling movies of the year.

Guests will delight at the industry’s greatest animators Pixar unveiling To Infinity And Beyond: Celebrating 25 Years of Pixar Animation Studios – a celebratory screening of all of the Pixar films and shorts, which will include a preview of the next film Brave. They can also enjoy a special satellite conversation with The Muppets who are going to reveal a clip of Disney’s The Muppets not out in cinemas until February 2012.

In addition, each of the three days of this incredible event will feature a SECRET SCREENING of a hotly anticipated forthcoming movie.

And if that taster of what is to come, isn’t enough to whet appetites, BIG SCREEN will also boast a range of themed screens and areas, offering some amazing treats for all types of film fan.

Visitors will have the chance to enjoy some of their favourite films on the big screen as part of THE MODERN GREATS SCREEN. Screenings will range from classics such as Apocalypse Now to Clerks (celebrating its 15th anniversary, to Stand By Me (celebrating its 25th anniversary), to the Scream trilogy, Sin City and Dark Star.

In addition, The London Film Museum, the only museum of its kind in Great Britain, will be showcasing some of the most iconic movie costumes ever seen including the Bourne Ultimatum, Highlander, Ali G Inda House, Indiana Jones, Golden Compass, Johnny English and Conan, as well as costumes worn by Peter Sellers, Christopher Lee and Sir Alec Guiness. There will also be a stunning displays of props from various film and television shows including Thunderbirds, Merlin, Borrowers and Doctor Who.

Small Screen will preview the best in top class TV shows from the US and UK, including panels from the show’s makers and stars.

In Conversation With… offers film fans the chance to hear stories from a huge array of movie legends including the world’s greatest stunt man Vic Armstrong – whose 80 credits span from Indiana Jones, to Superman to James Bond, as well as the artists behind The Making Of Alien, which goes behind the scenes of one of the greatest movie series ever created.

How They Do It offers a masterclass from the likes of premier film composer and musical director David Arnold whose credits include five of the James Bond films and. And with BIG SCREEN’S Pitch Your Movie competition audiences can try out for our ‘X-Factor of movie pitching’ in front of a panel of the industry’s biggest names.

Comic-Book World includes a discussion with comic book genius Mark Millar, creator of Kick Ass and the man who brought Spider-Man, Superman and Captain America into the 21st century. And you can join renowned author and Empire critic Kim Newman in his Chamber Of Horrors, where he hosts three days of horrors screenings, Q&As and signings including screenings of Quatermass And The Pit and Don’t Look Now, as well as panels on the history of the iconic British studio, Hammer Studios and the eternal fascination with Dracula.

And finally, Empire Comes Alive! offers a humorous and interactive opportunity to see the magazine brought to life. Legendary features such as How Much Is A Pint of Milk? And Movie Mastermind will be brought to the stage with special guest appearances and the chance to give your views to the critics.

This is just a taste of the truly amazing line-up that awaits fans this August. Over the coming weeks more will be revealed including details on further premieres, screenings and events. Whether it be a movie spectacular in the Special Effects Arena, master classes with world renowned filmmakers or the chance to get up close and personal with Hollywood’s biggest stars – there will be something for everyone, big and small.

Nicola Gunstone, Group Show Director of Empire Presents BIG SCREEN and Stuart Williams, Managing Director of Live Events & Strategic Partnerships at Bauer Media commented: “We are delighted to be working together on the most exciting live movie event seen in London to date. This three day ground-breaking event provides an exciting extension to the Empire brand and offers a unique experience to movie fans in the UK and Europe”.

For all additional information go to: http://www.empirebigscreen.com

Forbidden Planet is pleased to announce a signing by best-selling author Robin McKinley for her latest novel Pegasus, at the Forbidden Planet Megastore, 179 Shaftesbury Avenue, London, WC2H 8JR, on Thursday 7th July from 6 – 7pm.

On her twelfth birthday, Princess Sylviianel is ceremonially bound to her own Pegasus, Ebon. For a thousand years humans and pegasi have lived peacefully in the beautiful green country beyond the wild lands. They rely on human magicians and pegasi shamans as their own means of real communication. But not Sylvi and Ebon. Their friendship is like no other… they can understand each other. But as their bond grows more powerful, it becomes dangerous – could their friendship threaten

Robin McKinley has won many awards, including the Newbery Medal for The Hero and The Crown, a Newbery Honor for the The Blue Sword and the Mythpoeic Award for Adult Literature for Sunshine. She lives in Hampshire, England with her husband, author Peter Dickinson, two hellhounds nicknamed Chaos and Darkness, an 1897 Steinway upright named Rhodanthe, and increasing numbers of rose bushes wedged into three tiny gardens. The view out of her office window is her change-ringing bell tower and in the next village over is a paragon among horses whom Robin is so fortunate as to have permission to ride.

Forbidden Planet is the largest store of its kind in the world. Some of the biggest names in Sci-Fi, Fantasy and Horror have come to our London Megastore for signings including: Neil Gaiman, Terry Pratchett, Terry Gilliam, Simon Pegg, William Gibson, Mark Millar, Guillermo Del Toro, Brian Froud and Stephen King.

For more news about Forbidden Planet’s signings please go to: http://www.forbiddenplanet.com/events

Forbidden Planet is pleased to announce a signing by Grant Morrison for Supergods at the Forbidden Planet Megastore, 179 Shaftesbury Avenue, London, WC2H 8JR, on Wednesday 6th July 6 – 7pm.

Beginning with the creation of Superman in 1938, Grant Morrison charts the history of the superheroes. From Batman to the Flash to Dr Manhattan, Supergods looks at every key character, but also takes in unique national strips, and the strange spin-offs and forgotten curios that litter the outer reaches of this weird universe. Morrison explores the relationship between our world and that of the superheroes, showing how each reinvention of a character by a new creative team has held up a mirror to real-world preoccupations, latent or otherwise.

Written in a conversational style, and full of Morrison’s trademark wit, humour and dynamic storytelling – as well as unique insights into his own working practices – Supergods unlocks one of the most exciting and least explored strands of popular culture.

Grant Morrison was born in Glasgow in 1960. As a comics writer, he is renowned for his bold reinventions of existing superheroes and his own authored titles. He has had successful runs on Animal Man, Doom Patrol, JLA, The Invisibles, New X-Men, Fantastic Four and All Star Superman His Batman: Arkham Asylum is the best-selling original graphic novel ever published.

Forbidden Planet is the largest store of its kind in the world. Some of the biggest names in Sci-Fi, Fantasy and Horror have come to our London Megastore for signings including: Guillermo del Toro, Sam Raimi, Edgar Wright, Jonathan Ross, Neil Gaiman, Terry Gilliam, Simon Pegg, William Gibson and Stephen King.

For more news about Forbidden Planet’s signings please go to: http://www.forbiddenplanet.com/events

We’re a bit late to post this but you still might find tickets…

To celebrate the release of the final installment in the Harry Potter film series, Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows – Part 2, on the 15 July, the BFI IMAX in London is showing the first seven films in a series of marathon all-nighters. Split into two sections, Years 1 – 4 and Years 5 – 7, they’ll screen both over two weekends in June.

Years 1 – 4: Friday 17 & Friday 24 June, 22:00. (ends approx 9.30 Sat morning)
Years 5 -7: Saturday 18 & Saturday 25 June, 23.45 (ends approx 8.30 Sun morning)

Just wish I could go

Forbidden Planet is pleased to announce a signing by Brandon Sanderson for his astounding novels The Way of Kings Parts I and II at the Forbidden Planet Megastore, 179 Shaftesbury Avenue, London, WC2H 8JR, on Saturday 4th June 1 – 2pm.

Mankind used to live in The Tranquiline Halls. Heaven. But then the Voidbringers assaulted and captured heaven, casting out God and men. Men took root on Roshar, the world of storms. And the Voidbringers came against man ten thousand times.

Or so the legends say. Today, the only remnants of those supposed battles are the Shardblades, the possession of which makes a man nearly invincible on the battlefield. Kings strive to win more Shardblades, each secretly wishing to be the one who will finally unite all of mankind under a single throne. On a world scoured down to the rock by terrifying hurricanes that blow through every few day a young spearman forced into the army of a Shardbearer, led to war against an enemy he doesn’t understand and doesn’t really want to fight.

Brandon Sanderson was born in Nebraska in 1975. Since then he has written the Mistborn series, amongst others, become a New York Times bestselling author and been appointed by Robert Jordan’s estate to complete Jordan’s Wheel of Times. He lives in Utah.

Forbidden Planet is the largest store of its kind in the world. Some of the biggest names in Sci-Fi, Fantasy, Comics and Cult Entertainment have come to our London Megastore for signing events, including: Neil Gaiman, Terry Pratchett, Terry Gilliam, Simon Pegg, William Gibson, Mark Millar, Guillermo Del Toro, Brian Froud and Stephen King.

For more news about Forbidden Planet’s signings please go to: http://www.forbiddenplanet.com/events

Forbidden Planet is pleased to announce a special signing by Tony Lee and Dan Boulton for their astounding graphic novel Hope Falls at the Forbidden Planet Megastore, 179 Shaftesbury Avenue, London, WC2H 8JR, on Wednesday 1st June 6 – 7pm.

Released as a TPB in 2009, Hope Falls told the story of Helen Gane, a woman violated and murdered in a sleepy Nebraskan town who, twenty years later returns somehow to gain bloody vengeance on the three men who allowed this to happen – and the one man who did the deed. As the story continues and the body count rises, we learn how Helen has returned – she’s an Angel, free-falling towards Hell, and unless the Angel Michael can stop her, everything will end badly. But Michael has his own problems, for he discovers that this was far more than a simple murder, has ties all the way back to Jesus himself – and because of this, Helen won’t be able to kill her murderer after all…

Now, Markosia release a new, ‘Ultimate’ version, with the full, unedited story as well as fifteen pages of backmatter including script samples, art concepts and documentation and notes from Tony Lee and Dan Boultwood themselves.

In the last year the collaborative partnership of Tony Lee and Dan Boultwood has gone from strength to strength, with 2011 so far seeing books at Hachette, Kickstart and two series on MTV – and in June Markosia Entertainment add to this by releasing an ‘Ultimate’ edition of their 2008 award nominated series Hope Falls.

Forbidden Planet is the largest store of its kind in the world. Some of the biggest names in Sci-Fi, Fantasy, Comics and Cult Entertainment have come to our London Megastore for signing events, including: Kevin Smith, Terry Gilliam, Guillermo del Toro, Sam Raimi, Neil Gaiman, Terry Pratchett, Simon Pegg, William Gibson, Mark Millar, Brian Froud and Stephen King.

For more news about Forbidden Planet’s signings please go to: http://www.forbiddenplanet.com/events/

The colony planet of Eighty-Six looks as dull as all its fellow new worlds to veteran journalist Lex Falk, but when a local squabble starts to turn violent, and the media start getting the runaround from the military high command, his interest is seriously piqued. Forbidden from approaching the battlezone, he gets himself chipped inside the head of a combat veteran – and uncovers the story of a lifetime. When the soldier is killed, however, Falk must use all his resourcefulness to get back home again… and blow the lid off the whole damn thing.

Dan lives and works in Maidstone, Kent. He has laudable pile of comic titles to his credit, including work for both Marvel and DC; he’s also been one of 2000AD’s most prolific writers and responsible for one of the longest running strips of the last decade, Sinister Dexter. More recently, he’s the Black Library’s leading author, writer of several of the enormously successful Horus Heresy series including Horus Rising and Prospero Burns. Embedded is his second standalone novel for Angry Robot Books.

Forbidden Planet is the largest store of its kind in the world. Some of the biggest names in Sci-Fi, Fantasy, Comics and Cult Entertainment have come to our London Megastore for signing events, including: Neil Gaiman, Terry Pratchett, Terry Gilliam, Simon Pegg, William Gibson, Mark Millar, Guillermo Del Toro, Brian Froud and Stephen King.

For more news about Forbidden Planet’s signings go to: http://forbiddenplanet.com/events/

For over thirty years, Brian Froud has been regarded as the pre-eminent faerie artist in the world. His numerous international best-selling books are considered modern classics. He has worked with Jim Henson as conceptual designer on the feature films The Dark Crystal and Labyrinth as well as other Henson projects.

Now he and New York Times bestselling author John Matthews come together for the first time to create a spectacular interactive book that opens the doors to the enchanted world of Faerie. How does one discover faeries in one’s backyard or a garden, forest, or meadow? Through insets, hidden messages, magical signs, reflective mirrors, and other paper mechanics, Froud and Matthews reveal how anyone may discover the way to the land of Faerie. All you need is to believe is to own this book!

Forbidden Planet is the largest store of its kind in the world. Some of the biggest names in Sci-Fi, Fantasy, Comics and Cult Entertainment have come to our London Megastore for signing events, including: Jonathan Ross, Kevin Smith, Sam Raimi, Guillermo del Toro, Terry Gilliam, Christopher Lee, Andy Serkis, Simon Pegg, William Gibson, Neil Gaiman, Terry Pratchett and Stephen King.

For more news about Forbidden Planet’s signings go to: http://www.forbiddenplanet.com/events

Jasper Fforde is one of the UK’s most imaginative and entertaining authors. He creates hilarious, absurd and compelling adventures within bizarre and zany worlds and has enjoyed international success with two bestselling series. His books are loved by readers and have a mass following of dedicated fans.

Thursday Next is a literary detective who juggles her time between contemporary Swindon (though the Crimean War has not yet ended and dodos are house pets) and her travels in the world of fiction. In this, the sixth book in the series, it is a time of unrest in the BookWorld. Only Thursday’s diplomatic skills can avert a devastating genre war. But a week before the peace talks, she vanishes. Has she returned home to the RealWorld or is this more sinister?

But all is not lost. Living at the quiet end of speculative fiction is the written Thursday Next, eager to prove herself worthy of her illustrious Namesake. With her clockwork butler Sprockett and her Designated Love Interest Whitby Jett, Thursday has to get to grips with her inability to match up to her Namesake’s talent, and prove herself to the one person she respects more than anyone else: The real her…

Forbidden Planet is the largest store of its kind in the world. Some of the biggest names in Sci-Fi, Fantasy, Comics and Cult Entertainment have come to our London Megastore for signing events, including: Neil Gaiman, Terry Pratchett, Terry Gilliam, Simon Pegg, William Gibson, Mark Millar, Guillermo Del Toro, Brian Froud and Stephen King.

For more news about the signings please go to: http://forbiddenplanet.com/events/

The year is 2085, two decades after the great economic collapse. It’s power broken and it’s cities ruined, the West continues in scattered communities. In rural Dorset, Jake Reed lives with his 14-year old son, haunted by memories. Back in ’43, Jake was a rich young futures broker, immersed in the datascape of the world’s financial markets. He saw what was coming – and was one of the few to escape. For 22 years, he’s lived in fear of the future – and now it’s coming towards him. Chinese airships are in the skies and a strange glacial structure is dominating the horizon. A civil war looms – and Jake will find himself at the heart of the struggle for the future.

Born in London in 1954, David Wingrove gave up a career in banking to return to college, graduating with a First Class Honours Degree in English and American Literature. Whilst working on his Doctorate, he set about he daunting task of researching and creating the Chung Kuo series. He lives in North London, where he’s working on a new time travel trilogy.

Forbidden Planet is the largest store of its kind in the world. Some of the biggest names in Sci-Fi, Fantasy, Comics and Cult Entertainment have come to our London Megastore for signing events, including: Neil Gaiman, Terry Pratchett, Terry Gilliam, Simon Pegg, William Gibson, Mark Millar, Guillermo Del Toro, Brian Froud and Stephen King.

For more news about the signings please go to: http://forbiddenplanet.com/events/

Forbidden Planet is pleased to announce a signing by Steven Erikson for the final tale of the Malazan Book of the Fallen, The Crippled God, at the Forbidden Planet Megastore, 179 Shaftesbury Avenue, London, WC2H 8JR, on Saturday 26th February 1 – 2pm.

The final, apocalyptic chapter in one of the most original, exciting and acclaimed fantasy series of our time is coming to Forbidden Planet!

The Bonehunters are marching to Kolanse and to an unknown fate. Tormented and exhausted, they are an army on the edge of mutiny. But Adjunct Tavore will not relent. If she can hold her forces together, if the fragile alliances she has forged can survive and if it is within her power, one final act remains. She might not possess the gift of magic, she may be deemed plain and instill little loyalty and yet Tavore Paran is nothing if not bold. For she means to challenge the gods… Ranged against Tavore and her allies are the Forkrul Assail. Drawing upon a terrible unworldly power, they desire to cleanse the world – to annihilate everything in order to begin anew. Meanwhile In the realm of Kurald Galain, home to the long lost city of Kharkanas, thousands of refugees have gathered upon the First Shore. They await the coming of the Tiste Liosan. But this is a war they cannot hope to win – are they truly so ready to die for a lost cause? There is to be a reckoning. But none can conceive of the true, terrifying, enormity of things. For the Elder Gods are at work. Their intention is to shatter the chains that bind a force of utter devastation and release her from her eternal prison. Indeed, it would seem that once more there will be dragons in the world…

Forbidden Planet is the largest store of its kind in the world. Some of the biggest names in Sci-Fi, Fantasy and Horror have come to our London Megastore for signings including: Neil Gaiman, Terry Pratchett, Terry Gilliam, Simon Pegg, William Gibson, Mark Millar, Guillermo Del Toro, Brian Froud and Stephen King.

For more news about the signings please go to: http://www.forbiddenplanet.com/events

Forbidden Planet is pleased to announce a signing and Q&A by Jonathan Stroud, plus live art by Andrew Donkin and Lee Sullivan, all for the gorgeous graphic novel The Amulet of Samarkand at the Forbidden Planet Megastore, 179 Shaftesbury Avenue, London, WC2H 8JR, on Thursday 24th February 6 – 7pm.

Meet the author and the artists who have brought this electrifying tale of to life as a full-colour graphic novel.

Set in a modern-day London controlled by magicians, an irresistible plot is woven through sharp dialogue and stunning new artwork. Nathaniel, a young magician’s apprentice, has revenge on his mind. Desperate to defy his master and take on more challenging spells, he secretly summons the 5000-year-old djinni, Bartimaeus. Against his will, Bartimaeus is packed off to steal the powerful Amulet of Samarkand from Simon Lovelace, a master magician of unrivalled ruthlessness and ambition. Before long, both djinni and apprentice are caught up in a terrifying flood of magical intrigue, leading to a thrilling and hilarious adventure.

Jonathan Stroud is the author of the Bartimaeus trilogy, and the prequel, The Ring of Solomon, which have now sold over 6 million copies worldwide. Andrew Donkin has written more than sixty books for children and adults, and he has co-written the graphic novel adaptations of Eoin Colfer’s Artemis Fowl and Artemis Fowl: The Arctic Incident. Comic book artist and book illustrator Lee Sullivan’s work includes comics Transformers, Judge Dredd and Doctor Who.

Forbidden Planet is the largest store of its kind in the world. Some of the biggest names in Sci-Fi, Fantasy, Comics and Cult Entertainment have come to our London Megastore for signing events, including: Neil Gaiman, Terry Pratchett, Terry Gilliam, Simon Pegg, William Gibson, Mark Millar, Guillermo Del Toro, Brian Froud and Stephen King.

For more news about the signings please go to: http://www.forbiddenplanet.com/events

2011 will see the tenth anniversary of the London MCM Expo, London’s Comic Con – a decade in which the show has grown from a small collector’s fair to the biggest entertainment event in the UK, showcasing the best in comics, movies, video games, cosplay and anime. This year’s MCM Group events alone attracted over 100,000 visitors, as well as playing host to the prestigious Eagle Comic Awards and Euro Cosplay Championships.

To celebrate a decade of the London MCM Expo, our friends at Universal Pictures are giving away a pair of tickets to the premiere of Paul, the great new sci-fi comedy starring Simon Pegg, Nick Frost and Seth Rogan. For a chance to attend the premiere, which takes place in London in early February, simply visit www.londonexpo.com. Meanwhile, UK publisher Penguin will be giving away thousands of 64-page preview books at MCM events featuring extracts from their hottest titles for 2011.

Britain’s answer to the San Diego Comic Con, the twice-yearly London MCM Expo at ExCel London holds a unique place as the only major UK event to champion all aspects of geek culture, giving fans the chance to meet hundreds of comics artists and writers; get sneak peeks of the newest films and sci-fi shows; play and preview video games from the top publishers and discover the worlds of anime, manga and cosplay. The London MCM Expo’s Comic Village alone takes up over 2,000 Sqm, hosting talent from Marvel, DC, Avatar, Image and IDW.

In addition to London’s Comic Con, the MCM Group has more shows than ever in 2011, including the inaugural Manchester MCM Expo and Memorabilia London – a new collectors’ extravaganza that will be co-located at Excel with October’s London MCM Expo. The line-up of great events for 2011 features:

19 FEB 2011 – MIDLANDS MCM EXPO – TELFORD INTERNATIONAL CENTRE

26-27 MAR 2011 – SPRING MEMORABILIA SHOW – NEC BIRMINGHAM

27-29 MAY 2011 – LONDON MCM EXPO – EXCEL LONDON

30 JULY 2011 – MANCHESTER MCM EXPO – MANCHESTER CENTRAL

28-30 OCT 2011 – LONDON MCM EXPO – EXCEL LONDON

29-30 OCT 2011 – MEMORABILIA LONDON – EXCEL LONDON

19-20 NOV 2011 – WINTER MEMORABILIA SHOW – NEC BIRMINGHAM

For further London MCM Expo details, visit: www.mcmexpo.net

Meet Peter Grant, probationary constable in that mighty army for justice known to all right-thinking people as the Metropolitan Police Service (aka, The Filth). His only concerns in life were how to avoid a transfer to the Case Progression Unit – and finding a way to climb into the panties of the outrageously perky WPC Leslie May. Then one night, in pursuance of a murder inquiry, he tried to take a witness statement from someone who was dead, and that brought him to the attention of Inspector Nightingale, the last wizard in England. Now he’s a Detective Constable and a trainee wizard and his world has become somewhat complicated: vampires in Purley, negotiating a truce between the warring gods of the Thames, digging up graves in Covent garden… and there’s something festering at the heart of the city he loves, a malicious vengeful spirit that takes ordinary Londoners and twists them into grotesque mannequins to act out its drama of violence and despair.

Ben Aaronovitch was born and raised in London and his work reflects his abiding fascination and love for what he refers to as the ‘Capital of the World’. Also the authors of numerous Doctor Who scripts, he works as a bookseller when he’s not writing.

Forbidden Planet is the largest store of its kind in the world. Some of the biggest names in Sci-Fi, Fantasy, Comics and Cult Entertainment have come to our London Megastore for signing events, including: Neil Gaiman, Terry Pratchett, Terry Gilliam, Simon Pegg, William Gibson, Mark Millar, Guillermo Del Toro, Brian Froud and Stephen King.

For more news about our signings please go to: http://www.forbiddenplanet.com/events/

At 179 Shaftesbury Avenue, London on Thursday 27th January 6 – 7pm.
At Clifton Heights, Triangle West, Bristol on Saturday 29th January 1- 2pm.

Three men. One battle. No heroes. Bremer dan Gorst, disgraced master swordsman, has sworn to reclaim his stolen honour on the battlefield – and he’s caring how much blood gets spilled in the attempt. Prince Calder isn’t interested in honour; he wants is power, and he’ll tell any lie, use any trick, betray any friend to get it. Curnden Craw, the last honest man in the North, has gained nothing from a life of warfare but swollen knees and frayed nerves. He just wants to do the right thing – but what is that, when the world burning down around him? A bloody battle awaits – but with both sides riddled by intrigues, follies, feuds and jealousies, it’s unlikely to be the noblest hearts, or the strongest arms, that prevail.

Catapulted to the top ranks of fantasy writers, Joe’s winning formula is terrific, punchy prose, razor-sharp characterisation and a witty, darkly comic vein. His novels are enjoyed by those who love fantasy as well as those who like to lose themselves in the complex plotting of the richest, and grittiest, historical epics.

Forbidden Planet is the largest store of its kind in the world. Some of the biggest names in Sci-Fi, Fantasy, Comics and Cult Entertainment have come to our London Megastore for signing events, including: Neil Gaiman, Terry Pratchett, Terry Gilliam, Simon Pegg, William Gibson, Mark Millar, Guillermo Del Toro, Brian Froud and Stephen King.

For more news about our signings please go to: http://forbiddenplanet.com/events/

Forbidden Planet are delighted to announce that director EDGAR WRIGHT will be signing the DVD release of the smash-hit movie SCOTT PILGRIM VS. THE WORLD at the Forbidden Planet Megastore, 179 Shaftesbury Avenue, London WC2H 8JR on Thursday 30th December 5:30 – 6:30pm

From the comic books by Bryan Lee O’Malley and directed by ‘Spaced’ and ‘Shaun of The Dead’ film-maker Edgar Wright, this is the level-up movie that brought Scott Pilgrim onto the big screen. He’s charming, he’s jobless, he plays bass for garage band Sex Bob-omb – and he’s just met the girl of his dreams. Now, her seven evil exes are coming to kill him.

Edgar Wright is a genre-smashing creator; not only a household name but a champion of the New Breed of Geek. In Scott Pilgrim Vs. The World, he brings to life the tale of one romantic slacker’s quest to power up with love – and the DVD release of the movie is absolutely packed with extras.

Forbidden Planet is the largest store of its kind in the world. Some of the biggest names in Sci-Fi, Fantasy, Comics and Cult Entertainment have come to our London Megastore for signing events, including: Sam Raimi, Guillermo del Toro, Terry Gilliam, Christopher Lee, Andy Serkis, Simon Pegg, William Gibson, Neil Gaiman, Terry Pratchett and Stephen King.

For more news about our signings please go to: http://forbiddenplanet.com/events/

Join the BFI IMAX in London this Halloween for a spine-chilling night of 3D horror, including The Hole 3D, Piranha 3D and Resident Evil: Afterlife 3D. There will be short breaks between each film, and free refreshments to keep you screaming until dawn.

Prices:
Standard seats: £27.50 (adult), £19.00 (concs), £17.00 (student)
Premium seats: £29.50 (adult), £22.00 (concs), £22.00 (student)

Please note this is a digital 3D cinema presentation. This is not an IMAX ® presentation.

The Hole 3D
A pair of brothers stumble upon a mysterious hole in their basement that leads to the darkest corridors of their fears and nightmares.

Piranha 3D
After a sudden underwater tremor sets free scores of the prehistoric man-eating fish, an unlikely group of strangers must band together to stop themselves from becoming fish food for the area’s new razor-toothed residents.

Resident Evil: Afterlife 3D
While still out to destroy the evil Umbrella Corporation, Alice joins a group of survivors who want to relocate to the mysterious but supposedly unharmed safe haven known only as Arcadia.

My Bloody Valentine 3D
Tom returns to his hometown on the tenth anniversary of the Valentine’s night massacre that claimed the lives of 22 people. Instead of a homecoming, however, Tom finds himself suspected of committing the murders, and it seems like his old flame is the only one will believes he’s innocent.

The Final Destination 3D
After a teen’s premonition of a deadly race-car crash helps saves the lives of his peers, Death sets out to collect those who evaded their end.

SCI-FI-LONDON is the UK’s leading genre event and an internationally recognised launch pad for genre movies.

Each October, you’ll be able to catch special events, screenings and regular All-nighter events. For 2010, the Oktoberfest will take place Thursday 14th – Saturday 16th October.

Thursday 14th October

• 6:30PM – Life, but as we know it?

Friday 15th October

• 6:30PM – Rise of the Machines
• 7:30PM – Technotise: Edit & I
• 9:30PM – Dougal and the Blue Cat

Saturday 16th October

• 10:30AM – Robots
• 1:00PM – Alien Encounters: Superior Fan Power Since 1979
• 3:00PM – Time Traveller: The Girl Who Leapt Through Time
• 6:00PM – Monsters 80% Tickets Sold
• 9:00PM – TRON SOLD OUT
• 11:30PM – Anime All Nighter
• 11:30PM – MST3K All Nighter
• 11:30PM – Del Toro All Nighter
• 11:30PM – Studio Ghibli All Nighter 50% Tickets Sold

The 54th BFI London Film Festival has announced that this year’s programme includes a strong selection of horror and sci-fi films. This is part of a worldwide selection of 197 features and 112 shorts from 67 countries, which runs from October 13 – October 28.

Horror and Sci-Fi features:

END OF ANIMAL: Dir, Jo Sung-Hee – Maybe the most striking debut in Korean film history, this pocket-sized apocalypse shows the day when electricity disappears and the road becomes a dog-eat-dog world.

KABOOM: Dir, Gregg Araki – An ‘old school Gregg Araki movie’, Kaboom is smart, sexy and so much fun…

MARS: Dir, Geoff Marslett – An inventive slice of slacker sci-fi packed with wit and ideas.

NEVER LET ME GO: Dir, Mark Romanek – A haunting story of love and loss based on Kazuo Ishiguro’s best-selling novel.

LET ME IN: Dir, Matt Reeves – A shy young boy realises his new friend might not be the innocent she first appears in this atmospheric and ultramodern vampire tale.

RARE EXPORTS: Dir, Jalmari Helander – Santa Claus is coming to town, but spreading Christmas cheer is not at the top of his list…

WOMB: Dir, Benedek Fliegauf – Eva Green and Matt Smith star in an usual love story, exquisitely designed and photographed.

Horror and Sci-Fi shorts:

ALL FLOWERS IN TIME: Dir, Jonathan Caouette – An evil signal broadcast by Dutch TV convinces young boys and girls that they can shape-shift into other people – and monsters.

COSMIC ALCHEMY: Dir, Lawrence Jordan – A voyage in the celestial realm, out beyond consciousness, steered by amaster of mystical transformation. Wondrous visions are charted on star maps from the Harmonia Macrocosmica to a spellbinding drone track by
John Davis.

BIT: Dir, Jonathan Kable – Keep your eyes on the road…

HALF HEARTED: Dir, Max McGill – Mike wakes up from a big night out with more to worry about than a nasty hangover. A lot more.

THE LEGEND OF BEAVER DAM: Dir, Jerome Sable – A ghostly tale around the campfire awakens an evil monster. It’s up to nerdy Danny Zigwitz to be the hero and save his fellow campers!

MARY LAST SEEN: Dir, Sean Durkin – A young couple embark on a road trip to a beautiful and peaceful place. But a series of strange events occur on their journey, and it becomes clear that their relationship is not what it seems; and their destination is not what was promised.

VLOG: Dir, Yariv Barel and Mor Kaplansky – A teenage girl, equipped with her handy-cam, quietly leaves her sleeping family and abusive home.

Visit the BFI London Film Festival website for more details.

Up-coming TLA DVD releases BearCity (released November 8 2010) and Is It Just Me? (released October 25 2010) are to receive UK premieres at next week’s Iris Prize Festival in Cardiff, which runs from October 6-9.

Director Douglas Langway and co-writer Lawrence Ferber will be in attendance to introduce BearCity on Friday October 8 which has enjoyed an award-winning festival tour before coming to the UK. Star Nicholas Downs (Constantine) will also attend to introduce romantic comedy Is It Just Me? which is premiering on Thursday October 7.

“If you had any preconceptions about the bear community think again,” say Iris Prize Festival’s Berwyn Rowland of BearCity. “The film examines the pressure to conform, the trials and tribulations of a long-term relationship and ultimately how you can rediscover the importance of true friendship in unexpected places. This hugely popular movie travels across the Atlantic following rave reviews across the US.”

Commenting on Is It Just Me? Rowland says: “This romantic comedy has the undertones of Cyrano de Bergerac and has becomes the unexpected hit of the USA festival circuit this summer.”

Visit www.tlareleasing.com for further details on either of the forthcoming films and www.irisprize.org for information on the annual festival.

Forbidden Planet are delighted to announce that KAREN MILLER will be signing her latest title THE RELUCTANT MAGE at the Forbidden Planet Megastore, 179 Shaftesbury Avenue, London WC2H 8JR on Saturday 30th October 4 – 5pm

It’s been months since Rafel ventured over Barl’s Mountains into the unknown and only Deenie believes that Rafel still lives, sensing her brother in tortured dreams. She knows she must try to find him, as his talents alone will heal their land. The prospect terrifies Deenie; she finds the lands beyond Lur blighted with lawlessness and chaos and the dark sorcerer Morg’s deadly legacy. As they travel, they learn of a dangerous new power in the land. Deenie comes to suspect that her missing brother is involved, and that the evil their father destroyed has been reborn. She must save Rafel – if she can’t, then Morg’s vast power will once again command their world.

With her cast of unforgettable characters, and her masterful storytelling, Karen Miller has created an irresistible drama of political intrigue and magical adventure. The Reluctant Mage is the sequel to The Prodigal Mage, and set in the same world as her bestselling debut The Innocent Mage. The Innocent Mage was the bestselling fantasy debut of 2007 and spent over 140 consecutive weeks in the SF/F bestseller list. The Kingmaker, Kingbreaker series has sold over 110,000 copies.

Forbidden Planet is the largest store of its kind in the world. Some of the biggest names in Sci-Fi, Fantasy, Comics and Cult Entertainment have come to our London Megastore for signing events, including: Sam Raimi, Guillermo del Toro, Terry Gilliam, Christopher Lee, Andy Serkis, Simon Pegg, William Gibson, Neil Gaiman, Terry Pratchett and Stephen King.

For more news about our signings please go to: http://forbiddenplanet.com/events/

Shane Rimmer will be signing My Autobiography: From Thunderbirds to Ptrerodactyls at the Forbidden Planet Megastore, 179 Shaftesbury Avenue, London WC2H 8JR on Saturday 30th October 1 – 2pm

Shane Rimmer’s voice is familiar to millions from his role as Scott Tracy, the pilot of Thunderbird 1, but there are many other facets to his remarkable career.

In From Thunderbirds to Pterodactyls Shane recalls the years he spent as an actor, voice artist and writer for Gerry Anderson’s classic productions, as well as his appearances in other memorable shows such as Doctor Who, Coronation Street and Lipstick On Your Collar.

Equally at home in Star Wars or Out of Africa, Shane’s talents as a character actor have been called upon by some of the film industry’s leading directors. He worked for Stanley Kubrick in Dr Strangelove and Christopher Nolan in Batman Begins. Between the two he notched up appearances in three James Bond movies and had a close encounter with a low-flying dinosaur in The People that Time Forgot.

This wry and refreshingly frank autobiography sheds new light on some of the best-loved films and television series ever made, as well as revealing what life is really like for a jobbing actor in the sometimes less than glamorous world of show business.

Forbidden Planet is the largest store of its kind in the world. Some of the biggest names in Sci-Fi, Fantasy, Comics and Cult Entertainment have come to our London Megastore for signing events, including: Jonathan Ross, Kevin Smith, Sam Raimi, Guillermo del Toro, Terry Gilliam, Christopher Lee, Andy Serkis, Simon Pegg, William Gibson, Neil Gaiman, Terry Pratchett and Stephen King.

For more news about our signings please go to: http://forbiddenplanet.com/events/

Forbidden Planet is pleased to announce a signing by Pat Mills and Clint Langley. They will be signing ABC Warriors: The Volgan War Volume 3 at the Forbidden Planet Megastore, 179 Shaftesbury Avenue, London, WC2H 8JR, on Thursday 16th September 6 – 7pm

The countdown to Zippo’s execution has started! Only the ABC Warriors can stop their comrade from being melted down by the ruthless G Men. If that wasn’t bad enough, the Warriors are also set to be betrayed by another member willing to follow Volkhan and his destructive cause. And just who is the mysterious resistance figure known as the ‘Urban Fox’?

Pat Mills is one of the founding fathers of 2000AD and one of the most respected comic book writers around. He’s created some of the longest-running characters for the title such as Slaine, ABC Warriors and Nemesis The Warlock. His other work includes writing and developing Judge Dredd and Charley’s War.

Clint Langley started his career in the 90’s. His images can be seen worldwide in comics, on novel covers and in the conceptual design for advertising and films. His first comic strip work was Dynosty, which appeared in 2000AD. He’s since worked on various comic strips such as Slaine, Judge Dredd and Warhammer.

Forbidden Planet is the largest store of its kind in the world. Some of the biggest names in Sci-Fi, Fantasy, Comics and Cult Entertainment have come to our London Megastore for signing events, including: Neil Gaiman, Terry Pratchett, Terry Gilliam, Simon Pegg, William Gibson, Mark Millar, Guillermo Del Toro, Brian Froud and Stephen King.

For more news about our signings please go to: http://www.forbiddenplanet.com/events

Former rock singer Hollis Henry has lost a lot of money in the crash, which means she can’t turn down the offer of a job from Hubertus Bigend, sinister Belgian proprietor of mysterious ad agency Blue Ant. Milgrim is working for Bigend too. Bigend admires the ex-addict’s linguistic skills and street knowledge so much that he’s even paid for his costly rehab. So together Hollis and Milgrim are at the front line of Bigend’s attempts to get a slice of the military budget, and they gradually realize he has some very dangerous competitors. Which is not a great thought when you don’t much trust your boss either.

William Gibson first novel Neuromancer sold more than six million copies worldwide. In an earlier short story, Gibson had coined the phrase ‘cyberspace’, and he developed the concept in the novel, creating an iconography for the Information Age long before widespread use of the Internet. Count Zero and Mona Lisa Overdrive completed his first trilogy. He has since written six further novels, moving gradually away from science fiction and futuristic work, instead writing about the strange contemporary world we inhabit. His most recent novels are Pattern Recognition and Spook Country, both available in Penguin. He was born in South Carolina but has lived in Vancouver, Canada for many years.

Forbidden Planet is the largest store of its kind in the world. Some of the biggest names in Sci-Fi, Fantasy, Comics and Cult Entertainment have come to our London Megastore for signing events, including: Sam Raimi, Guillermo del Toro, Terry Gilliam, Christopher Lee, Andy Serkis, Simon Pegg, William Gibson, Neil Gaiman, Terry Pratchett and Stephen King.

For more news about our signings please go to: http://www.forbiddenplanet.com/Signings.html

In this fantastic sequel to The Strain, humans have been displaced at the top of the food chain, and now understand what it is to be not the consumer, but the consumed. Ephraim Goodweather, director of the New York office of the Centers for Disease control, is one of the few humans who understands what is really happening. Vampires have arrived in New York City, and their condition is contagious. If they cannot be contained, the entire world is at risk of infection. As the Biblical origins of the Ancient ones are gradually revealed, Eph learns that there is a greater, more terrible plan in store for the human race – worse even than annihilation…

Guillermo del Toro came to prominence with cult horror movies such as Chronos and The Devil’s Backbone and made his Hollywood directorial debut with the classic Blade II. Rapidly followed by the box office and critical hit Hellboy and the Oscar-winning Pan’s Labyrinth, del Toro has established himself as one of the leading directors in the genre.

Forbidden Planet is the largest store of its kind in the world. Some of the biggest names in Sci-Fi, Fantasy, Comics and Cult Entertainment have come to our London Megastore for signing events, including: Neil Gaiman, Terry Pratchett, Terry Gilliam, Simon Pegg, William Gibson, Mark Millar, Brian Froud and Stephen King.

For more news about our signings please go to: http://www.forbiddenplanet.com/Signings.html

Brian Froud will be signing the Deluxe Collector’s Edition of FAERIES at the Forbidden Planet Megastore, 179 Shaftesbury Avenue, London WC2H 8JR on Saturday 2nd October 1 – 2pm

A quarter of a century after its initial publication, and with more than a million copies in print worldwide, FAERIES is a fantasy classic. Now, Froud returns to his most enduring and beloved work in this deluxe anniversary edition. This ultimate collector’s book features eight new pieces of art by Brian Froud and Alan Lee with the original pencil drawings and watercolors. More than just a reissue, this deluxe revised and updated edition contains essays from both Froud and Lee on the continuing influence of Faeries. There is also a foreword by bestselling author Jane Yolen.

For over thirty years, Brian Froud has been regarded as the pre-eminent faerie artist in the world. His numerous international best-selling books are considered modern classics. He has worked with Jim Henson as conceptual designer on the feature films The Dark Crystal and Labyrinth as well as other Henson projects.

Forbidden Planet is the largest store of its kind in the world. Some of the biggest names in Sci-Fi, Fantasy, Comics and Cult Entertainment have come to our London Megastore for signing events, including: Jonathan Ross, Kevin Smith, Sam Raimi, Guillermo del Toro, Terry Gilliam, Christopher Lee, Andy Serkis, Simon Pegg, William Gibson, Neil Gaiman, Terry Pratchett and Stephen King.

For more news about our signings please go to: http://forbiddenplanet.com/events/

In London for the August Bank holiday weekend and stuck for ideas on how to spend your weekend?

Frightfest is returning this August Bank holiday, bringing with it 36 films from 14 countries, 9 world premieres, 2 screens and the one and only Tobe Hooper – making Film4 Frightfest one of the biggest and best horror film festivals in the world.

Opening tonight on Thursday 26 August with Adam Green’s Hatchet 2 and closing on Monday 30 August with The Last Exorcist, this year’s fest will be packed with diverse thrills and chills spanning the genre from the notorious and controversial A Serbian Film, to the poignant and lyrical Monsters.

SCREEN 1

THURSDAY AUG 27

6.30pm HATCHET II  (World Premiere)
9.15pm PRIMAL (World Premiere)
11.30pm  DEAD CERT (World Premiere)

FRIDAY AUG 28

TOTAL ICON: TOBE HOOPER
10.45am  EGGSHELLS (Total Icon Retrospective)
1.00pm  THE TEXAS CHAIN SAW MASSACRE (Total Icon Retrospective)
3.15pm  INTERVIEW WITH TOBE HOOPER.
5.30pm ISLE OF DOGS (World Premiere)
7.45pm   F (World Premiere)
9.15pm  RED HILL (Preview)
11.30pm  ALIEN VS. NINJA (UK Premiere)

SATURDAY AUG 29

11.00am  CHERRY TREE LANE Preview)
1.15pm  THE TORTURED (UK Premiere)
3.15pm  13HRS (World Premiere)
THE HORROR CHANNEL PRESENTS
6.30pm  I SPIT ON YOUR GRAVE  (European Premiere)
TOTAL FILM PRESENTS
8.45pm  MONSTERS (Preview)
11.55pm  DREAM HOME (UK Premiere)

SUNDAY AUG 30

11.00am  THE PACK (UK Premiere)
1.00pm. FILM4 FRIGHTFEST INTERNATIONAL SHORT FILM SHOWCASE – to be announced soon.

ANDY NYMAN’S QUIZ FROM HELL

4.00pm. WE ARE WHAT WE ARE (SOMOS LO QUE HAY) (UK Premiere)
6.30pm  KABOOM (UK Premiere)
9.00pm  A SERBIAN FILM (UK Premiere)
11.30pm  THE LOVED ONES (UK Premiere)

MONDAY AUG 31

11.15am   VIDEO NASTIES (World Premiere)
1.15pm  THE DEAD (World Premiere)
3.30pm  BEDEVILLED (UK Premiere)
6.30pm  RED, WHITE & BLUE (UK Premiere)
9.00pm THE LAST EXORCISM (UK Premiere)

DISCOVERY SCREEN

FRIDAY AUG 28

10.45pm  BURNING BRIGHT (UK Premiere)
12.45pm  THE CLINIC (UK Premiere)
3.00pm  FINALE (UK Premiere)
5.00pm  WOUND (European Premiere)
7.15pm  OUTCAST (Preview)
9.45pm  HIGANJIMA: ESCAPE FROM VAMPIRE ISLAND (UK Premiere)

SATURDAY 29 AUG

11.00am  CHRISTOPHER ROTH (UK Premiere)
1.15pm  FANBOYS (UK Premiere)
3.30pm  AFTER.LIFE (UK Premiere)
6.35pm.  FINALE
9.00pm  BURNING BRIGHT

SUNDAY AUG 30

11.00am  HIGANJIMA: ESCAPE FROM VAMPIRE ISLAND
1.30pmn  OUTCAST
4.05pm  WOUND
6.35pm  AMER (BITTER) (Preview)
9.05pm   THE CLINIC

MONDAY AUG 31

11.00am – AMER
1.30pm  AFTER.LIFE
3.35pm  FANBOYS
6.35pm  CHRISTOPHER ROTH

To book tickets call 08 714 714 714 or go online to: www.empirecinemas.co.uk
Festival passes: £150 Day Passes: From £24-£50  Single tickets: £11

For full programme & timetable log onto www.frightfest.co.uk