June 16, 2025 • 35 mins
Star Trek: Strange New Worlds will conclude with season five as planned, while Marvel's Vision spin-off series casts Emily Hampshire as EDITH and Thunderbolts struggles at the box office despite positive reception.
• Paramount confirms Strange New Worlds will end with season 5, currently in production
• Emily Hampshire joins Paul Bettany in Vision series as Stark's AI EDITH
• Thunderbolts underperforms with $371 million globally despite positive reviews
• Sean Levy's Star Wars Starfighter casts Maya Goth alongside Ryan Gosling
• James Gunn confirms new Wonder Woman film in development at DC Studios
• Peter Sohn to direct Incredibles 3 with Brad Bird writing and producing
• SAG-AFTRA ends video game strike with agreement on AI usage and compensation
• Disney and NBCUniversal sue Midjourney for copyright infringement of characters
• Mel Brooks returns as Yogurt in Spaceballs sequel coming in 2027
• Dan Aykroyd endorses new Blues Brothers graphic novel continuing the story
• BBC developing animated Doctor Who series for preschool audience
• DC Studios announces Mr. Miracle adult animated series based on Tom King's comics
• Veteran actor Harris Yulin passes away at 87
Thanks for listening! Come visit the podcast at https://www.multiversetonight.com/
Mark as Played
Transcript
Episode Transcript
Available transcripts are automatically generated. Complete accuracy is not guaranteed.
Speaker 1 (00:01):
Tonight, a strange short season.
Meet Edith Wonder Woman inplanning stage and Mel Brooks
returns to Spaceballs 2.
All that and more in thisedition of Multiverse Tonight.
Welcome to Multiverse Tonight,your source for geek news.
We dissect films, games, comicsand much more, bringing you
insightful commentary on popculture.
(00:23):
This is Multiverse Tonight.
Now here's your host, thomasTownley.
Hello and welcome to episode242 of Multiverse Tonight.
I'm, of course, your host,thomas Townley.
And well, it seems that summeris creeping in.
It's finally getting up intothe 90s here in Kansas and it
(00:49):
actually got hot enough that weturned on the air conditioner
for the first time this year,and other people have turned it
on like three weeks ago.
But you know, we wait until thevery last minute to turn ours
on.
It's just, you know, savesmoney, saves the environment.
You know all that jazz.
(01:09):
I don't really have a lot totalk about here at the top of
the show, so let's get on withthe Star Trek news.
(01:41):
Thank you.
Executives Akiva Goldsman, harryAlonzo Myers and Alex Kurtzman
stated that the series aimed touphold the core values of Star
Trek curiosity, hope and thebelief in the bare future.
They expressed gratitude toParamount Plus for allowing them
(02:02):
to conclude the show over fiveseasons as intended, and thanked
the devoted fans for theirsupport.
Knowing that three more seasonsare still to come, Now this
announcement proceeds.
The premiere of the show'sthird season on Thursday,
january 17th, Following thethird season, a fourth
consisting of ten episodes, willair before the sixth episode.
Final season Seasons four iscurrently in production, with
season five being scheduled tobegin production later this year
.
Now, premiere dates for theremaining seasons have not been
(02:25):
announced yet, suggesting theseries will likely continue into
2027 or 2028.
As a prequel to Star Trek, theoriginal series, the expectation
has been that Captain Pike'screw would eventually align with
the classic show's timeline.
Now this is not expected tooccur in Season 5, as the
creative team has had advancenotice of the show's conclusion.
(02:46):
Goldsman had previouslyexpressed the hope to continue
it into the TOS era if Paramountallowed it, indicating that
this is the intended direction.
This news arrives amidstcost-cutting measures at
Paramount Global, whichannounced a 15% reduction in its
US workforce last August due tothe economic challenges in the
industry.
After introducing moreserialized Star Trek stories
(03:09):
with Discovery and Picard,kurtzman's team shifted to the
more traditional explorationfocused episodic storytelling of
the original 66 series withStrange New Worlds.
This approach has resulted inthe most watched Star Trek
series on Paramount+, which hasreceived a Critics' Choice Award
nomination for Best Drama in2023.
However, the Paramount PlusTrek team recently experienced a
(03:32):
setback with the streaming filmStar Trek Section 31, a spinoff
featuring Michelle Yeoh'sDiscovery character, emperor
Philippa Georgiou.
The film received the poorestreviews from critics and fans
among all Trek productions.
Paramount Plus is alsocurrently developing Star Trek
Starfleet Academy, led byshowrunner Noga Lando.
The series will follow a newclass of Starfleet cadets
(03:55):
trained to become officers andstars, and stars Holly Hunter as
a Starfleet captain in chargeof the Academy.
Filming for Starfleet Academyconcludes in February and it's
anticipated to premiere late2025 or early 2026.
Kurtzman describes the show asoptimistic, fun, funny and
emotional, with characters whowill resonate with contemporary
(04:16):
young audiences.
In Strangely World Season 3,mount is supported by returning
cast members Rebecca Robain,ethan Peck, josh Bush, christina
Chong, celia Rose Gooding,melissa Naivia, babs Alkmaqson
and Martin Quinn, and thisseason's guest stars will
include Rice Darby, patton,oswalt, killian O'Sullivan,
(04:39):
melania Scraffano and Carol Kanereprising her role as Pellia.
Paul Wesley will also bereturning as Captain James T
Kirk.
Now, if you remember, seasonthree ended with the cliffhanger
of the crew facing off againstthe Gorn.
So you know we have.
You know, I guess we betterrewatch it, because you know
(05:00):
that was such a long time ago.
You know your memory is not asgood as it used to be.
I guess we'd better all justre-watch season 2.
Anyway, let's go on to theMarvel Comics News.
(05:30):
Marvel Studios' spin-off seriesabout Vision has landed Schitt's
Creek star Emily HampshireHampshire as Edith E-D-I-T-H,
the Stark Industries artificialintelligence, which was
introduced in 2019's Spider-ManFar From Home.
She will join Paul Bettany, whois reprising his role as the
now reincarnated Synthoidcharacter, who is the physical
(05:51):
manifestation of another StarkIndustries AI, jarvis.
In Far From Home, edith isintroduced as a gift that Tony
Stark bequeathed to Peter Parkerafter Stark sacrificed his life
in Endgame.
Now, peter controlled Ediththrough a pair of high-tech
sunglasses which he unwittinglygave to the film's villain
Mysterio, before retrieving themat the end of the movie.
(06:14):
The glasses are confiscatedafter Peter's identity as
Spider-Man is revealed to theworld, and Edith's fate was left
unresolved.
Now it's unclear whetherHampshire is just lending her
voice to the role or will beembodying it as well, but the
character will be one of severalAI to populate the series.
James Spader is reprising hisrole as Ultron, the villain from
(06:35):
2015's Age of Ultron, and TaniaMiller is playing Jocasta,
another robot character from theMarvel Comics universe.
Other characters or co-starsinclude Todd Sashwick and
Rudrell Malika.
So you know it'll be anAI-filled series.
So AI fun town on the towntonight.
(07:06):
Tonight, despite Disney's CEOBob Iger's initial celebratory
remarks hailing Thunderbolts,aka the New Avengers, as a prime
example of Marvel's revitalizedmovie strategy, after a period
of underperforming films, themovie has significantly
underperformed at the box office.
Six weeks after its release,thunderbolts' gross is
(07:27):
disappointing $371 millionglobally, making it one of the
lowest-earning entries in theMCU.
Now this outcome casts doubt onwhere this film signals a true
resurgence for the superherofranchise.
Sean Robbins, a movie analyticsdirector at Fandango, suggests
a shift in expectations forMarvel, stating that
billion-dollar grosses may nolonger be the norm for every MCU
(07:48):
movie.
While Marvel has been aconsistent box office success
since Iron man way back in 2008,becoming the highest-grossing
film franchise with $31 billionacross 36 films.
Pre-pandemic even less popularfilms typically surpassed $500
million worldwide.
Pre-pandemic even less popularfilms typically surpassed 500
million worldwide.
However, since 2020, only 6 outof 13 MCU films have reached
(08:09):
this benchmark, indicating adecline in consistent commercial
performance.
Unlike some recent Marveldisappointments like Captain
America, brave New World, theMarvels and Ant-Man and the Wasp
Quantumania, which were plaguedby negative reviews,
thunderbolts reportedly hadpositive audience reception.
Its box office failure despitethis suggests a potential limit
(08:30):
for superhero movies notcentered on well-established
marquee characters.
Several factors contributed tothis downturn, including a
weaker global box office and anoversaturation of superhero
content across both film andtelevision.
Changes in audience preferencesare also evident, with recent
top-performing films being moregeared toward families, such as
a Minecraft movie or that newLilo and Stitch movie, or
(08:53):
original stories like Sinners.
Jeff Bach, an analyst withExhibitor Relations, notes that,
quote, lower-tier comic bookmovies unquote are no longer
guaranteed success, andexpresses concern over
Thunderbolt's brief theatricalrun.
This contrasts with previousMCU films, which enjoyed longer
periods in theaters.
This situation arrives at acritical juncture for the MCU.
(09:15):
Having previously overwhelmedaudiences with intricate,
interconnected narratives,marvel is now intentionally
reducing its output toprioritize quality.
The question remains whetherthe studio will continue to
invest in standalone storiesthat are no longer reliable hits
or focus primarily on majorproperties like the Avengers and
Spider-Man.
Marvel's upcoming slate appearsto lean towards the latter,
(09:37):
featuring high-budget, highlyanticipated films such as the
Fantastic Four First StepsAvengers, doomsday, spider-man 4
, and Avengers, secret Wars,alongside the planned X-Men and
Black Panther movies.
Meanwhile, projects centered onindividualist mainstream
characters such as Blade arefacing developmental challenges.
The recent success for the MCUhas largely been major team of
(10:01):
films like Spider-Man, no WayHome and Deadpool and Wolverine,
as well as sequels toestablished series like Doctor
Strange and the Multiverse ofMadness.
Thor, love and Thunder,guardians of the Galaxy Vol 3,
and Black Panther Will ComeForever.
Historically, marvel thrived onintroducing less familiar
characters, achievingsignificant popularity with Iron
man and Thor before the team-upin the Avengers.
(10:22):
This success emboldened thestudio to take risks on
properties like Guardians of theGalaxy.
However, after a series ofconfusing spin-offs and
underwhelming sequels, audiencesseemed less enthusiastic about
new additions to the MCU.
Now let's go on to the Star Warsnews.
Excuse me, roger, roger.
(10:42):
Maya Goth has been cast in SeanLevy's upcoming Star Wars
Starfighter, joining RyanGosling in the film.
Her role is currentlyundisclosed.
Starfighter is a standalonemovie featuring new characters
within the Star Wars universeand is slated to begin
production in the fall.
It's scheduled for a theatricalrelease on May 28, 2027.
(11:04):
Courtesy of Disney Now.
This project was officiallyannounced by Lucasfilm President
Kathleen Kennedy and ChiefCreative Officer, dave Filoni,
at the Star Wars Celebrationevent in Tokyo this past April.
The film's timeline is setapproximately five years after
Star Wars Episode IX, the Riseof Skywalker, which currently
holds the final chronologicalspot in the saga.
(11:26):
The Rise of Skywalker, whichcurrently holds the final
chronological spot in the saga.
Goff's recent and upcomingprojects included Guillermo del
Toro's Frankenstein andChristopher Nolan's the Odyssey,
alongside a star-stud cast ofMatt Damon, tom Holland, zendaya
, anne Hathaway and RobertPattinson.
Her previous work includes Emma, infinity Pool and Tai West's
Trilogy X, pearl and Maxine.
Star Wars Starfighter will beLevy's next directorial venture,
(11:49):
following the success ofDeadpool and Wolverine, which
became the highest-grossingR-rated movie of all time, with
$1.3 billion globally after itsJuly 2024 release.
The screenplay for Starfighteris penned by Jonathan Trooper,
who has previously collaboratedwith Levy on the Atom Project
and this Is when I Leave you andalso the creator of the Apple
TV series your Friends andNeighbors.
(12:12):
Now let's go on to the DC ComicsNews.
Wonder Woman will continueunder James Gunn and Peter
Saffron's DC Studios, with a newmovie currently being written.
(12:33):
According to Gunn, dc has notrevealed the writer or who will
play Princess Diana.
This marks a shift from theZack Snyder-era DC Universe.
As Patty Jenkins planned, athird Wonder Woman film was not
pursued.
Gunn clarified that this newWonder Woman project is separate
from the slow-moving ParadiseLost HBO Max series set on
(12:54):
Themyscira, which he envisionsas Game of Thrones with Westeros
, but with all the inhabitantson Paradise Island.
No writers have been announcedfor Paradise Lost.
Warner Bros Discovery CEO DavidZaslav previously mentioned
Superman, batwoman, supergirland Wonder Woman has key
characters for Gunn andSaffron's DC vision, which Gunn
confirmed is accurate.
(13:15):
Knowing that, while these fourare important, they aren't the
only focused, they expresssatisfaction with the direction
of two of these characters, withthe other two being addressed.
Satisfaction with the directionof two of these characters,
with the other two beingaddressed.
Gal Gadot stated in August of2023 that she had not been
invited to a meeting with Gunnand Saffron where she was told
(13:37):
they would develop Wonder Woman3 with her and that she was in
quote the best of hands.
However, dc told Deadline atthe time that Wonder Woman 3 was
not in development and PiaJenkins stated that she never
walked away from the potentialthird film and was open to any
requests.
The announcement of WonderWoman 3 followed the
simultaneous theatrical and HBOMax release of Wonder Woman 1984
, which earned $170 millionworldwide amid pandemic-related
(14:00):
theater closures.
This was part of Wonder Media'sHBO Max the Dynamic Window
experiment under Jason Collar.
The first Wonder Woman moviefilm in 2017, also directed by
Jenkins, was a significant boxoffice success, grossing over
$822 million globally.
Let's go on to the geek news.
Incredibles 3 is found.
(14:39):
Its director in Elemental andthe good dinosaur maker, peter
Son.
Maker Peter Son, brad Bird, whowrote the screenplays for and
directed the first two films inthe animated superhero film
franchise, is currently writingthe screenplay for the third
film, which he'll producealongside Dana Murray, son and
Bird's collaboration.
History includes Bird'smentorship to Son, who worked on
(15:00):
every animated Bird film,including the Incredibles and
Incredibles 2,.
Up until this year's, ray GunSon was specifically chosen to
carry the Incredibles andIncredibles 2,.
Up until this year's, ray GunSohn was specifically chosen to
carry the Incredibles torch byBird and Pixar creative chief
officer Pete Docter.
Sohn is a Pixar veteran, havingalso voiced characters in
various movies for the studio,like Ratatouille, monsters,
(15:21):
university and Lightyear.
Elemental, sohn's second moviethat he directed at Pixar was
nominated for the Best AnimationFeature Oscar last year.
Disney announced the threequelfilm at August 2024's D23 Expo
event, with Bird attached asdeveloping the latest
installment.
The first two films in thefranchise land a combined $1.8
(15:43):
billion in theaters, with a14-year gap between releases.
Sag-aftra has officially endedits strike against several major
video game developers effectiveWednesday at noon.
Following an attentiveagreement reached nearly two
days prior, the InteractiveMovie Agreement Negotiating
Committee and National ExecutiveDirector and Chief Negotiator,
(16:06):
duncan Crabtree, ireland, haveboth consented to the strike
suspension.
Although the agreement stillrequires approval from the
National Board and the GeneralMembership, sac-aftra members
can now resume work onInteractive Media Agreement
productions, including publicityand promotion.
Now the Union's National Boardis scheduled to meet Thursday to
review the agreement.
If approved, it will then besent to members for ratification
(16:28):
.
Details of the contract arealso expected to be released at
this time.
Sag-aftra initiated the strikein July of 2024 against
signatories of the InteractiveMedia Agreement after more than
a year of on-off negotiationsand operating without contract
since November of 2022.
Our official intelligenceemerged as a key point of
(16:49):
contention during thesenegotiations off negotiations
and operating without contractsince November of 2022.
Our official intelligenceemerged as a key point of
contention during thesenegotiations.
The contract encompasses voiceand performance capture artists
in video games, and the unionhas consistently voiced concerns
about the potential negativeimpact of AI on these
professions.
The video game companiesinvolved in this contract
include Activision Productions,blind Light, disney Character
Voices, electronic ArtsProductions, formosa Interactive
(17:10):
, insomniac Games, llamaProductions, take-two
Productions and WB Games.
A spokesman for the companystated on Wednesday that they
are pleased to have reached atentative agreement that
acknowledges the significantcontributions of SAG-AFTRA
performers in video games.
The spokesperson added that theagreement builds upon three
decades of successfulcollaboration between the
interactive entertainmentindustry and the union,
(17:32):
providing historic wageincreases of over 24% for
performance performers, improvedhealth and safety measures and
laying AI provisions thatmandate transparency, consent
and compensation for the use ofdigital replicas in games.
The companies look forward tocontinued collaboration with
performers to create new andengaging entertainment for
billions of players worldwide.
(17:55):
Disney and NBCUniversal haveinitiated a federal copyright
infringement lawsuit against agenerative AI startup,
midjourney, claiming that thecompany has illegally used their
copyright characters.
According to the lawsuit filedin the US District Court for the
Central District of California,midjourney's website showcases
numerous images generated by itsAI image service at a
subscriber request, which Disneyand NBCU allege infringed upon
(18:18):
their copyright works.
Examples cited in the lawsuitinclude characters from Marvel
such as Deadpool, wolverine,iron man, spiderman and Hulk,
star Wars, darth Vader, yoda,r2-d2, c-3po and Chewbacca,
disney's Frozen Princess, elsaand Olaf, the Simpsons, pixar's
Toy Story, buzz Lightyear andCars', lightning Queen,
dreamworks, how to Train yourDragon and Universal's Shrek and
(18:40):
the Minions from Despicable Me.
Disney and NBCU assert thatMidjourney, since its founding
in 2021 and launch of its imagegenerator in 2022, has generated
significant revenue over $200million in 2023 and reportedly
$300 million last year andamassed nearly 21 million users
by September of 2024.
They contend that Midjourney isa copyright-free writer
(19:11):
engaging in blatantincorporation and copying of
their famous characters andimages, and soon videos, without
any investment in the creation.
The lawsuit states that thispiracy, regardless of the
technology used, misappropriatesthe intellectual property and
threatens the core principles ofUS copyright law that foster
American leadership in creativeindustries.
They further argue thatMidjourney's bootlegging
business model poses a broadthreat to the motion picture
industry, which significantlycontributes to the national
economy and job creation.
(19:32):
Disney and NBCU also claim thatMidjourney sells subscriptions
allowing users to view anddownload derivative copies of
their copyright characters.
Before the lawsuit, disney andNBCU recently reportedly
requested that Midjourney ceaseits alleged intellectual
property theft.
However, they claim, midjourneycontinued to release new
(19:54):
versions of its image servicewith even higher quality
infringing images.
According to the founder andCEO, david Lowles, disney and
NBCU are seeking unspecifiedmonetary damages and injunctive
relief to prevent Midjourneyfrom further infringing upon and
distributing their copyrightworks.
Executives from both companiesissued statements emphasizing
(20:15):
the importance of copyright lawin protecting their substantial
investments in creativity andinnovation and expressed
openness to responsible AI touse as a tool for human
creativity, but condemned thealleged piracy as a threat to
the creative community.
The Motion Picture Associationalso lauded the legal action
underscoring the critical roleof strong copyright protection
(20:37):
in the entertainment industry.
Mel Brooks, the 98-year-oldcomedic legend, will appear in a
Spaceballs sequel slated for a2027 theatrical release by
Amazon MGM Studios.
Brooks will reprise his role asYogurt, the yoga-esque
character in the follow-up tohis 1987 Star Wars spoof.
(21:00):
He directed and co-wrote theoriginal film, also playing
President Scrooge.
Josh Greenbaum will direct thenew film from a script penned by
Benji Samet, dan Hernandez andJosh Gad, with Gad also rumored
to be among the cast.
Amazon has not released anyfurther details about the
casting.
Brian Grazer and Jeb Brody ofImagine are producing alongside
(21:21):
Gad Brooks and Greenbaum.
Executive producers includeKevin Slater, adam Mermeems,
benji Samet and Dan HernandezBrooks, an EGOT winner known for
directing and writing comedieslike Young Frankenstein, high
Anxiety and Blazing Saddles,last appeared in a movie with
cameos in the 2005 adaptation ofhis hit Broadway show.
(21:43):
The Producers Details about theSpaceballs sequels plot are
well non-existent.
Abs on MGM's press releaseplayfully described the movie as
, quote a non-prequel,non-reboot, sequel, part two,
but with reboot elementsfranchise expansion film.
An exact release date will beannounced later.
(22:04):
Now.
The original Spaceballs,released by MGM a decade after
Star Wars, starred Bill Pullman,john Candy, rick Moranis and
Daphne Zazia, with Joan Riversproviding a voice.
While it earned $38.1 millioninitially which is about $105
million in today's money andreceived mixed reviews, it has
since gained a cult following asone of Brooks' signature
(22:26):
comedies.
Josh Gad handed the projectback in 2024 in an Instagram
post featuring a partiallyobscured script giver saying it
was the funniest and best thinghe's ever worked on.
Now he has also worked withSama and Hernandez on Teenage
Mutant, ninja Turtle, mutantMayhem, pokemon, detective PJu
(22:47):
Ab's Family 2, and Lego StarWars Rebuild the Galaxy.
Amazon MGM is activelyexpanding its presence in
theatrical release.
So, considering that the man is98 years old and 2027 he'll be
100,.
Considering that the man is 98years old and 2027 he'll be 100,
my guess is they gotta get downquick to work and get his part
(23:08):
together and filmed Because younever know, with these things he
could live to be 105.
He could, you know, cease toexist tomorrow.
You know it's kind of a gamble,but you know good on him.
Dan Aykroyd is enthusiasticabout a new Blues Brothers story
(23:33):
the Blues Brothers the Escapeof Joliet Jake.
A forthcoming graphic novelfrom Z2 Comics is due out this
fall and will continue theadventures of Joliet, jake and
Elwood, iconic characters fromthe 1980 film the Blues Brothers
, portrayed by the late JohnBelushi and Dan Aykroyd
respectively.
The book is written by StellaAykroyd, luke Pisano and James
(23:54):
Werner, with art by FelipeSobrero.
Judy Belushi-Pisano, belushi'swidow, who passed away during
production, who contributed tothe initial concept Set.
Two decades after the movie,the escape of Juliet Jake sees
Elwood partnering with a rookiedetective after Jake's jailbreak
.
In his foreword for theHollywood Reporter, aykroyd, who
(24:15):
provided editorial oversight,explains why he considers this
story the total, logical thirdact for Elwood.
Preview pages from the graphicnovel accompany the foreword.
Ackroyd reflects on theextensive list of offenses Jake
and Elwood accumulated duringthe Mission to Pay Cook County's
illegal attacks on the St Helenof the Blessed Shroud Orphanage
(24:38):
, estimating around 50violations.
He enjoyed the ride.
The idea of them as trophyprisoners, legendary figures
like Dillinger and Capone, nowconsidered specimens the
authorities want to keepincarcerated.
This premise offers acompelling starting point to
revisit Jake and Elwood as olderimprisoned men.
Elwood's new path, completewith a small white Roman
(24:59):
Catholic collar, is a total,logical third act in his life.
When Jake mysteriouslydisappears from Joliet
penitentiary and old scores needsettling, the adventure begins.
The graphic novel format allowsfor the Blues Brothers legend to
continue and be passed on inways that film cannot.
The book preserves the spiritof the Blues Brothers,
mischievous recidivists andmusical outlaws who, above all,
(25:23):
cherish the blues.
The request for the briefcasecontaining unearthed lyrics and
music from the greats representsan honorable pursuit.
Joliet Jake's escape serves asa passing of the legacy to a new
generation, echoing the core oftheir original story, keeping
alive what should not beforgotten.
In addition to new adversaries,the story introduces allies who
(25:44):
share a deep respect for theblues as a culture to be
preserved by all who appropriateits infectious African-American
fire and soul.
So I liked Blues Brothers.
I liked the second BluesBrothers as well.
I know it's not as good, but itwas a worthwhile endeavor, so
(26:10):
I'll look forward to readingthis.
Following the Kuti Gatwa's exitfrom Doctor who, the Who-niverse
is set to expand with a newanimated series for the BBC's
CB's channel aimed at apreschool audience.
Expand with a new animatedseries for the BBC's CB's
channel aimed at a preschoolaudience.
This will be the first animatedpreschool series within the
franchise, running independentlyfrom the main live-action show.
(26:32):
The series will feature theDoctor and companions embarking
on adventures through time andspace, facing challenges
suitable for young viewers.
The question of which Doctorwill lead this new series
remains open, especially afterGatwa's recent departure and
Billy Piper's unexpectedappearance in the latest
live-action finale.
Patricia Hidalgo, the BBC'sDirector of Children's Education
(26:54):
, stated quote Everyone iswelcome at CBeebies, including
the Doctor.
This much-beloved franchisecontains millions around the
world, so it's only right thatour younger audience gets to
experience the wonder and themagic of the Doctor in a brand
new format.
This is an extremely excitingopportunity and we are looking
forward to welcoming companiesto pitch for this new project as
we continue our commitment andinvestment in the UK's animation
(27:16):
industry".
The BBC is seeking a passionateproduction company for the
animated series, while Bad Wolfproduces the main Doctor who
series, with Russell T Davies asshowrunner.
The lead for the preschoolseries is yet to be determined
Now.
Familiar Doctors like DavidTennant, matt Smith and Josie
Whitaker could potentiallyheadline the animated series, or
(27:37):
it might introduce a newiteration of the Doctor
alongside original companions.
Russell T Davies' latest Doctorwho concludes in May 2025 with
the departure of the 15th Doctor.
While future live-actionseasons are unconfirmed and
there is speculation about theBBC-Disney deal, the development
of this animated series andlive-action spinoff, the War
Between the Land and Sea,suggests a positive future for
(27:59):
the Doctor who universe.
A debut date on CBB's seriesand the live-action spinoff are
yet to be announced, so watchthis space.
Mr Miracle is going from thefourth world to its first
animated series.
At the Annecy Animation Festivalon Thursday, dc Studios and
(28:20):
Warner Bros Animation announcedthe new adult animated series,
mr Miracle, based on the 2017series from writer Tom King and
artist Mitch Grads about superescape.
Artist Scott Freedy King, partof the DC Brain Trust, serves as
a tech producer and showrunneron Mr Miracle, which is headed
by James Gunn, and Aquamanproducer Peter Saffron is also
(28:48):
adapting the Kingpin's SupergirlWoman of Tomorrow series as an
into a 2026 feature filmstarring Millie Alcock King,
will also serve as the executiveproducer and writer on the
live-action series Lanterns.
Mr Miracle marks the secondadult animated series for DC
Studios, which released theGunn-scripted HBO Max series
Creature Commandos in 2024.
Wb Animation's upcoming DCslate includes the previously
announced animated seriesStarfire, my Adventures with
(29:10):
Green Lantern and DC Superpowers, as well as the animated movie
Dynamic Duo about Robins, dickGrayson and Jason Todd.
Here's the logline for the DCStudios Mr Miracle.
No prison can hold him, no trapcan contain him.
He is Scott Freed, theworldwide celebrity sensation
known as Mr Miracle, and he isthe greatest escape artist who
(29:31):
ever lived.
But can he pull off theultimate trick and escape death
itself?
Something has gone horriblywrong with the perfect life that
Scott and his warrior wife BigBrarda have built for themselves
on Earth.
With war raging between theirhome worlds of Apocalypse and
New Genesis, scott's crueladoptive father, darkseid, seems
to have finally captured theanti-life equation, the ultimate
(29:52):
weapon that will give Darkseidtotal dominance over the
universe.
As the mountains of bodies onboth sides grow ever higher,
only Mr Miracle can stop theslaughter and restore peace, but
the terrible power of theanti-life equation may already
be at work, with his own mind,warping his reality, exposing
his long-buried pain andshattering the fragile happiness
he's found with the woman heloves.
And so begins the Odyssey ofScott Free Mr Miracle, a
(30:15):
harrowing, hilarious,heart-wrenching journey across
the pitfalls of the ordinary andextraordinary, as the son of
God raised by the devil tries tosave his family, his world and
maybe even himself.
Now, in the comics, mr Miracledebuted in 1971's Mr Miracle no
1 by New Gods and Forever Peoplecreator Jack Kirby.
(30:35):
The son of Isaiah, high fatherof New Genesis and ruler of the
New Gods, scott was given toGranny Goodness and raised her
expit.
As Orion, son of Darkseid,ruler of Apocalypse, was raised
by a high father.
The sons were exchanged in partof an armistice reached on the
100th day of the 100th year ofthe Fourth World's War between
the plants of New Genesis andApocalypse.
(30:58):
Forged by the torture of GrannyGoodness, scott earned the
admiration of theApocalypse-raised Big Barda,
leader of the Female Furies andproduct of Granny's expit.
After finally escaping theEarth, scott became the protege
of the escape artist ThaddeusBrown and succeeded him as the
new Mr Miracle.
The costumed super escapeartist would later return to New
Genesis and battle the DarkSide alongside Orion and Barda.
(31:20):
King's 12-issue Mr Miracleseries.
Scott attempted suicide afterasking himself the questions
what can't I escape from?
What shouldn't I escape from?
What does anyone escape fromDeath?
No one escapes from death.
I love Mr Miracle.
Mr Miracle is one of myfavorite you know not, you know
(31:42):
not mainstream superherocharacters.
So yeah, I'll check this out.
And finally, tonight a veterancharacter actor, harris Ulan,
known for his roles in Scarface,ghostbusters 2, star Trek, deep
Space Nine and Ozark, haspassed away at the age of 87 in
New York City due to cardiacarrest.
His manager, sue Liebman,confirmed the news to
(32:04):
Entertainment Weekly.
Born on November 5, 1937 in LosAngeles, ulan had a prolific
six-decade career in film,television and theater, amassing
over 100 roles.
He made his New York stagedebut in 1963 and his first
on-screen debut in 1970's filmthe End of the Road.
His Broadway debut came in 1980with Watch on the Rhine, and he
(32:26):
returned to Broadway inproductions like the Diary of
Anne Frank, the Price and HeddaGabler.
Ulan's film creds includememorable roles such as the
corrupt police officer MelBernstein in the 1983 classic
Scarface, judge Stephen Wexlerin Ghostbusters II and another
corrupt lawman in the 1994thriller, clear and Present
Danger.
He also appeared in Night Moves, st Ives Steel Looking for
(32:50):
Richard Bean and the Hurricane,which he first worked with
Denzel Washington, larryNightingale with him for
Training Day.
On TV, ulan had numerous nobleappearances, including a
correctly acclaimed performancein the Star Trek Deep Space Nine
episode Duet and anEmmy-nominated role in Frasier.
(33:10):
He also had memorable parts in24, buffy, the Vampire Slayer,
entourage and, more recently, asBuddy Decker in the Netflix TV
series Ozark.
His other TV credits includeVeep, the Unbreakable Kimmy
Schmidt and, just like that,billions and Divorce.
Beyond acting, yulin dedicatedseveral years to teaching at
Juilliard and ColumbiaUniversity and worked at stage
(33:31):
productions such as the GlassMenagerie and the Trip to
Bountiful.
At the time of his death, yulinwas preparing to star alongside
his Ozark co-star, laura Linney, in an American classic and
upcoming MGM comedy.
The film's director, michaelHoffman, remembered Yudelin as
quote one of the greatestartists I have ever encountered,
presenting his technique,vitality and character.
(33:52):
Harris Yudelin survived by hiswife, gershon Lohman, son-in-law
Ted Minow, nephew Martin Craneand godchildren Marco and Laura
Greenberg Again, veterancharacter actor Harris Ulan,
dead at the age of 87.
And that brings us to the endof the show for today.
Now please be sure to check usout on social media.
(34:14):
We're on Blue Sky and Twitterat Multiverse Tom Threads,
facebook and Instagram atMultiverse Tonight.
And if you've gotten some valueout of the show and would like
to pay it back, please head onover to Multiverse Tonight,
where you'll find our Patreonand Ko-Fi links, check our show
notes, visit our Tee PublicStore and so much more.
Now, if this is your first timelistening, thank you very much
(34:37):
and welcome.
Now go ahead and hit thatsubscribe button and share it
with others.
Now, thanks to Hot Dope for theintro music and Lobo Loco for
the outro theme music.
Thanks for watching thisedition of Multiverse Tonight.
We'll be back in two weeks withmore sci-fi and comic book news
.
Now, please exit the universein an orderly fashion.
Good night.
Multiverse Night is aproduction of Fact-Tag Journal
(35:01):
Productions.
Copyright 2025.
All rights reserved.
This podcast is part of the TopGoogle Culture Podcast Network.
Tonight, a strange short season.
Meet Edith Wonder Woman inplanning stage and Mel Brooks
returns to Spaceballs 2.
All that and more in thisedition of Multiverse Tonight.
Welcome to Multiverse Tonight,your source for geek news.
We dissect films, games, comicsand much more, bringing you
insightful commentary on popculture.
(00:23):
This is Multiverse Tonight.
Now here's your host, thomasTownley.
Hello and welcome to episode242 of Multiverse Tonight.
I'm, of course, your host,thomas Townley.
And well, it seems that summeris creeping in.
It's finally getting up intothe 90s here in Kansas and it
(00:49):
actually got hot enough that weturned on the air conditioner
for the first time this year,and other people have turned it
on like three weeks ago.
But you know, we wait until thevery last minute to turn ours
on.
It's just, you know, savesmoney, saves the environment.
You know all that jazz.
(01:09):
I don't really have a lot totalk about here at the top of
the show, so let's get on withthe Star Trek news.
(01:41):
Thank you.
Executives Akiva Goldsman, harryAlonzo Myers and Alex Kurtzman
stated that the series aimed touphold the core values of Star
Trek curiosity, hope and thebelief in the bare future.
They expressed gratitude toParamount Plus for allowing them
(02:02):
to conclude the show over fiveseasons as intended, and thanked
the devoted fans for theirsupport.
Knowing that three more seasonsare still to come, Now this
announcement proceeds.
The premiere of the show'sthird season on Thursday,
january 17th, Following thethird season, a fourth
consisting of ten episodes, willair before the sixth episode.
Final season Seasons four iscurrently in production, with
season five being scheduled tobegin production later this year
.
Now, premiere dates for theremaining seasons have not been
(02:25):
announced yet, suggesting theseries will likely continue into
2027 or 2028.
As a prequel to Star Trek, theoriginal series, the expectation
has been that Captain Pike'screw would eventually align with
the classic show's timeline.
Now this is not expected tooccur in Season 5, as the
creative team has had advancenotice of the show's conclusion.
(02:46):
Goldsman had previouslyexpressed the hope to continue
it into the TOS era if Paramountallowed it, indicating that
this is the intended direction.
This news arrives amidstcost-cutting measures at
Paramount Global, whichannounced a 15% reduction in its
US workforce last August due tothe economic challenges in the
industry.
After introducing moreserialized Star Trek stories
(03:09):
with Discovery and Picard,kurtzman's team shifted to the
more traditional explorationfocused episodic storytelling of
the original 66 series withStrange New Worlds.
This approach has resulted inthe most watched Star Trek
series on Paramount+, which hasreceived a Critics' Choice Award
nomination for Best Drama in2023.
However, the Paramount PlusTrek team recently experienced a
(03:32):
setback with the streaming filmStar Trek Section 31, a spinoff
featuring Michelle Yeoh'sDiscovery character, emperor
Philippa Georgiou.
The film received the poorestreviews from critics and fans
among all Trek productions.
Paramount Plus is alsocurrently developing Star Trek
Starfleet Academy, led byshowrunner Noga Lando.
The series will follow a newclass of Starfleet cadets
(03:55):
trained to become officers andstars, and stars Holly Hunter as
a Starfleet captain in chargeof the Academy.
Filming for Starfleet Academyconcludes in February and it's
anticipated to premiere late2025 or early 2026.
Kurtzman describes the show asoptimistic, fun, funny and
emotional, with characters whowill resonate with contemporary
(04:16):
young audiences.
In Strangely World Season 3,mount is supported by returning
cast members Rebecca Robain,ethan Peck, josh Bush, christina
Chong, celia Rose Gooding,melissa Naivia, babs Alkmaqson
and Martin Quinn, and thisseason's guest stars will
include Rice Darby, patton,oswalt, killian O'Sullivan,
(04:39):
melania Scraffano and Carol Kanereprising her role as Pellia.
Paul Wesley will also bereturning as Captain James T
Kirk.
Now, if you remember, seasonthree ended with the cliffhanger
of the crew facing off againstthe Gorn.
So you know we have.
You know, I guess we betterrewatch it, because you know
(05:00):
that was such a long time ago.
You know your memory is not asgood as it used to be.
I guess we'd better all justre-watch season 2.
Anyway, let's go on to theMarvel Comics News.
(05:30):
Marvel Studios' spin-off seriesabout Vision has landed Schitt's
Creek star Emily HampshireHampshire as Edith E-D-I-T-H,
the Stark Industries artificialintelligence, which was
introduced in 2019's Spider-ManFar From Home.
She will join Paul Bettany, whois reprising his role as the
now reincarnated Synthoidcharacter, who is the physical
(05:51):
manifestation of another StarkIndustries AI, jarvis.
In Far From Home, edith isintroduced as a gift that Tony
Stark bequeathed to Peter Parkerafter Stark sacrificed his life
in Endgame.
Now, peter controlled Ediththrough a pair of high-tech
sunglasses which he unwittinglygave to the film's villain
Mysterio, before retrieving themat the end of the movie.
(06:14):
The glasses are confiscatedafter Peter's identity as
Spider-Man is revealed to theworld, and Edith's fate was left
unresolved.
Now it's unclear whetherHampshire is just lending her
voice to the role or will beembodying it as well, but the
character will be one of severalAI to populate the series.
James Spader is reprising hisrole as Ultron, the villain from
(06:35):
2015's Age of Ultron, and TaniaMiller is playing Jocasta,
another robot character from theMarvel Comics universe.
Other characters or co-starsinclude Todd Sashwick and
Rudrell Malika.
So you know it'll be anAI-filled series.
So AI fun town on the towntonight.
(07:06):
Tonight, despite Disney's CEOBob Iger's initial celebratory
remarks hailing Thunderbolts,aka the New Avengers, as a prime
example of Marvel's revitalizedmovie strategy, after a period
of underperforming films, themovie has significantly
underperformed at the box office.
Six weeks after its release,thunderbolts' gross is
(07:27):
disappointing $371 millionglobally, making it one of the
lowest-earning entries in theMCU.
Now this outcome casts doubt onwhere this film signals a true
resurgence for the superherofranchise.
Sean Robbins, a movie analyticsdirector at Fandango, suggests
a shift in expectations forMarvel, stating that
billion-dollar grosses may nolonger be the norm for every MCU
(07:48):
movie.
While Marvel has been aconsistent box office success
since Iron man way back in 2008,becoming the highest-grossing
film franchise with $31 billionacross 36 films.
Pre-pandemic even less popularfilms typically surpassed $500
million worldwide.
Pre-pandemic even less popularfilms typically surpassed 500
million worldwide.
However, since 2020, only 6 outof 13 MCU films have reached
(08:09):
this benchmark, indicating adecline in consistent commercial
performance.
Unlike some recent Marveldisappointments like Captain
America, brave New World, theMarvels and Ant-Man and the Wasp
Quantumania, which were plaguedby negative reviews,
thunderbolts reportedly hadpositive audience reception.
Its box office failure despitethis suggests a potential limit
(08:30):
for superhero movies notcentered on well-established
marquee characters.
Several factors contributed tothis downturn, including a
weaker global box office and anoversaturation of superhero
content across both film andtelevision.
Changes in audience preferencesare also evident, with recent
top-performing films being moregeared toward families, such as
a Minecraft movie or that newLilo and Stitch movie, or
(08:53):
original stories like Sinners.
Jeff Bach, an analyst withExhibitor Relations, notes that,
quote, lower-tier comic bookmovies unquote are no longer
guaranteed success, andexpresses concern over
Thunderbolt's brief theatricalrun.
This contrasts with previousMCU films, which enjoyed longer
periods in theaters.
This situation arrives at acritical juncture for the MCU.
(09:15):
Having previously overwhelmedaudiences with intricate,
interconnected narratives,marvel is now intentionally
reducing its output toprioritize quality.
The question remains whetherthe studio will continue to
invest in standalone storiesthat are no longer reliable hits
or focus primarily on majorproperties like the Avengers and
Spider-Man.
Marvel's upcoming slate appearsto lean towards the latter,
(09:37):
featuring high-budget, highlyanticipated films such as the
Fantastic Four First StepsAvengers, doomsday, spider-man 4
, and Avengers, secret Wars,alongside the planned X-Men and
Black Panther movies.
Meanwhile, projects centered onindividualist mainstream
characters such as Blade arefacing developmental challenges.
The recent success for the MCUhas largely been major team of
(10:01):
films like Spider-Man, no WayHome and Deadpool and Wolverine,
as well as sequels toestablished series like Doctor
Strange and the Multiverse ofMadness.
Thor, love and Thunder,guardians of the Galaxy Vol 3,
and Black Panther Will ComeForever.
Historically, marvel thrived onintroducing less familiar
characters, achievingsignificant popularity with Iron
man and Thor before the team-upin the Avengers.
(10:22):
This success emboldened thestudio to take risks on
properties like Guardians of theGalaxy.
However, after a series ofconfusing spin-offs and
underwhelming sequels, audiencesseemed less enthusiastic about
new additions to the MCU.
Now let's go on to the Star Warsnews.
Excuse me, roger, roger.
(10:42):
Maya Goth has been cast in SeanLevy's upcoming Star Wars
Starfighter, joining RyanGosling in the film.
Her role is currentlyundisclosed.
Starfighter is a standalonemovie featuring new characters
within the Star Wars universeand is slated to begin
production in the fall.
It's scheduled for a theatricalrelease on May 28, 2027.
(11:04):
Courtesy of Disney Now.
This project was officiallyannounced by Lucasfilm President
Kathleen Kennedy and ChiefCreative Officer, dave Filoni,
at the Star Wars Celebrationevent in Tokyo this past April.
The film's timeline is setapproximately five years after
Star Wars Episode IX, the Riseof Skywalker, which currently
holds the final chronologicalspot in the saga.
(11:26):
The Rise of Skywalker, whichcurrently holds the final
chronological spot in the saga.
Goff's recent and upcomingprojects included Guillermo del
Toro's Frankenstein andChristopher Nolan's the Odyssey,
alongside a star-stud cast ofMatt Damon, tom Holland, zendaya
, anne Hathaway and RobertPattinson.
Her previous work includes Emma, infinity Pool and Tai West's
Trilogy X, pearl and Maxine.
Star Wars Starfighter will beLevy's next directorial venture,
(11:49):
following the success ofDeadpool and Wolverine, which
became the highest-grossingR-rated movie of all time, with
$1.3 billion globally after itsJuly 2024 release.
The screenplay for Starfighteris penned by Jonathan Trooper,
who has previously collaboratedwith Levy on the Atom Project
and this Is when I Leave you andalso the creator of the Apple
TV series your Friends andNeighbors.
(12:12):
Now let's go on to the DC ComicsNews.
Wonder Woman will continueunder James Gunn and Peter
Saffron's DC Studios, with a newmovie currently being written.
(12:33):
According to Gunn, dc has notrevealed the writer or who will
play Princess Diana.
This marks a shift from theZack Snyder-era DC Universe.
As Patty Jenkins planned, athird Wonder Woman film was not
pursued.
Gunn clarified that this newWonder Woman project is separate
from the slow-moving ParadiseLost HBO Max series set on
(12:54):
Themyscira, which he envisionsas Game of Thrones with Westeros
, but with all the inhabitantson Paradise Island.
No writers have been announcedfor Paradise Lost.
Warner Bros Discovery CEO DavidZaslav previously mentioned
Superman, batwoman, supergirland Wonder Woman has key
characters for Gunn andSaffron's DC vision, which Gunn
confirmed is accurate.
(13:15):
Knowing that, while these fourare important, they aren't the
only focused, they expresssatisfaction with the direction
of two of these characters, withthe other two being addressed.
Satisfaction with the directionof two of these characters,
with the other two beingaddressed.
Gal Gadot stated in August of2023 that she had not been
invited to a meeting with Gunnand Saffron where she was told
(13:37):
they would develop Wonder Woman3 with her and that she was in
quote the best of hands.
However, dc told Deadline atthe time that Wonder Woman 3 was
not in development and PiaJenkins stated that she never
walked away from the potentialthird film and was open to any
requests.
The announcement of WonderWoman 3 followed the
simultaneous theatrical and HBOMax release of Wonder Woman 1984
, which earned $170 millionworldwide amid pandemic-related
(14:00):
theater closures.
This was part of Wonder Media'sHBO Max the Dynamic Window
experiment under Jason Collar.
The first Wonder Woman moviefilm in 2017, also directed by
Jenkins, was a significant boxoffice success, grossing over
$822 million globally.
Let's go on to the geek news.
Incredibles 3 is found.
(14:39):
Its director in Elemental andthe good dinosaur maker, peter
Son.
Maker Peter Son, brad Bird, whowrote the screenplays for and
directed the first two films inthe animated superhero film
franchise, is currently writingthe screenplay for the third
film, which he'll producealongside Dana Murray, son and
Bird's collaboration.
History includes Bird'smentorship to Son, who worked on
(15:00):
every animated Bird film,including the Incredibles and
Incredibles 2,.
Up until this year's, ray GunSon was specifically chosen to
carry the Incredibles andIncredibles 2,.
Up until this year's, ray GunSohn was specifically chosen to
carry the Incredibles torch byBird and Pixar creative chief
officer Pete Docter.
Sohn is a Pixar veteran, havingalso voiced characters in
various movies for the studio,like Ratatouille, monsters,
(15:21):
university and Lightyear.
Elemental, sohn's second moviethat he directed at Pixar was
nominated for the Best AnimationFeature Oscar last year.
Disney announced the threequelfilm at August 2024's D23 Expo
event, with Bird attached asdeveloping the latest
installment.
The first two films in thefranchise land a combined $1.8
(15:43):
billion in theaters, with a14-year gap between releases.
Sag-aftra has officially endedits strike against several major
video game developers effectiveWednesday at noon.
Following an attentiveagreement reached nearly two
days prior, the InteractiveMovie Agreement Negotiating
Committee and National ExecutiveDirector and Chief Negotiator,
(16:06):
duncan Crabtree, ireland, haveboth consented to the strike
suspension.
Although the agreement stillrequires approval from the
National Board and the GeneralMembership, sac-aftra members
can now resume work onInteractive Media Agreement
productions, including publicityand promotion.
Now the Union's National Boardis scheduled to meet Thursday to
review the agreement.
If approved, it will then besent to members for ratification
(16:28):
.
Details of the contract arealso expected to be released at
this time.
Sag-aftra initiated the strikein July of 2024 against
signatories of the InteractiveMedia Agreement after more than
a year of on-off negotiationsand operating without contract
since November of 2022.
Our official intelligenceemerged as a key point of
(16:49):
contention during thesenegotiations off negotiations
and operating without contractsince November of 2022.
Our official intelligenceemerged as a key point of
contention during thesenegotiations.
The contract encompasses voiceand performance capture artists
in video games, and the unionhas consistently voiced concerns
about the potential negativeimpact of AI on these
professions.
The video game companiesinvolved in this contract
include Activision Productions,blind Light, disney Character
Voices, electronic ArtsProductions, formosa Interactive
(17:10):
, insomniac Games, llamaProductions, take-two
Productions and WB Games.
A spokesman for the companystated on Wednesday that they
are pleased to have reached atentative agreement that
acknowledges the significantcontributions of SAG-AFTRA
performers in video games.
The spokesperson added that theagreement builds upon three
decades of successfulcollaboration between the
interactive entertainmentindustry and the union,
(17:32):
providing historic wageincreases of over 24% for
performance performers, improvedhealth and safety measures and
laying AI provisions thatmandate transparency, consent
and compensation for the use ofdigital replicas in games.
The companies look forward tocontinued collaboration with
performers to create new andengaging entertainment for
billions of players worldwide.
(17:55):
Disney and NBCUniversal haveinitiated a federal copyright
infringement lawsuit against agenerative AI startup,
midjourney, claiming that thecompany has illegally used their
copyright characters.
According to the lawsuit filedin the US District Court for the
Central District of California,midjourney's website showcases
numerous images generated by itsAI image service at a
subscriber request, which Disneyand NBCU allege infringed upon
(18:18):
their copyright works.
Examples cited in the lawsuitinclude characters from Marvel
such as Deadpool, wolverine,iron man, spiderman and Hulk,
star Wars, darth Vader, yoda,r2-d2, c-3po and Chewbacca,
disney's Frozen Princess, elsaand Olaf, the Simpsons, pixar's
Toy Story, buzz Lightyear andCars', lightning Queen,
dreamworks, how to Train yourDragon and Universal's Shrek and
(18:40):
the Minions from Despicable Me.
Disney and NBCU assert thatMidjourney, since its founding
in 2021 and launch of its imagegenerator in 2022, has generated
significant revenue over $200million in 2023 and reportedly
$300 million last year andamassed nearly 21 million users
by September of 2024.
They contend that Midjourney isa copyright-free writer
(19:11):
engaging in blatantincorporation and copying of
their famous characters andimages, and soon videos, without
any investment in the creation.
The lawsuit states that thispiracy, regardless of the
technology used, misappropriatesthe intellectual property and
threatens the core principles ofUS copyright law that foster
American leadership in creativeindustries.
They further argue thatMidjourney's bootlegging
business model poses a broadthreat to the motion picture
industry, which significantlycontributes to the national
economy and job creation.
(19:32):
Disney and NBCU also claim thatMidjourney sells subscriptions
allowing users to view anddownload derivative copies of
their copyright characters.
Before the lawsuit, disney andNBCU recently reportedly
requested that Midjourney ceaseits alleged intellectual
property theft.
However, they claim, midjourneycontinued to release new
(19:54):
versions of its image servicewith even higher quality
infringing images.
According to the founder andCEO, david Lowles, disney and
NBCU are seeking unspecifiedmonetary damages and injunctive
relief to prevent Midjourneyfrom further infringing upon and
distributing their copyrightworks.
Executives from both companiesissued statements emphasizing
(20:15):
the importance of copyright lawin protecting their substantial
investments in creativity andinnovation and expressed
openness to responsible AI touse as a tool for human
creativity, but condemned thealleged piracy as a threat to
the creative community.
The Motion Picture Associationalso lauded the legal action
underscoring the critical roleof strong copyright protection
(20:37):
in the entertainment industry.
Mel Brooks, the 98-year-oldcomedic legend, will appear in a
Spaceballs sequel slated for a2027 theatrical release by
Amazon MGM Studios.
Brooks will reprise his role asYogurt, the yoga-esque
character in the follow-up tohis 1987 Star Wars spoof.
(21:00):
He directed and co-wrote theoriginal film, also playing
President Scrooge.
Josh Greenbaum will direct thenew film from a script penned by
Benji Samet, dan Hernandez andJosh Gad, with Gad also rumored
to be among the cast.
Amazon has not released anyfurther details about the
casting.
Brian Grazer and Jeb Brody ofImagine are producing alongside
(21:21):
Gad Brooks and Greenbaum.
Executive producers includeKevin Slater, adam Mermeems,
benji Samet and Dan HernandezBrooks, an EGOT winner known for
directing and writing comedieslike Young Frankenstein, high
Anxiety and Blazing Saddles,last appeared in a movie with
cameos in the 2005 adaptation ofhis hit Broadway show.
(21:43):
The Producers Details about theSpaceballs sequels plot are
well non-existent.
Abs on MGM's press releaseplayfully described the movie as
, quote a non-prequel,non-reboot, sequel, part two,
but with reboot elementsfranchise expansion film.
An exact release date will beannounced later.
(22:04):
Now.
The original Spaceballs,released by MGM a decade after
Star Wars, starred Bill Pullman,john Candy, rick Moranis and
Daphne Zazia, with Joan Riversproviding a voice.
While it earned $38.1 millioninitially which is about $105
million in today's money andreceived mixed reviews, it has
since gained a cult following asone of Brooks' signature
(22:26):
comedies.
Josh Gad handed the projectback in 2024 in an Instagram
post featuring a partiallyobscured script giver saying it
was the funniest and best thinghe's ever worked on.
Now he has also worked withSama and Hernandez on Teenage
Mutant, ninja Turtle, mutantMayhem, pokemon, detective PJu
(22:47):
Ab's Family 2, and Lego StarWars Rebuild the Galaxy.
Amazon MGM is activelyexpanding its presence in
theatrical release.
So, considering that the man is98 years old and 2027 he'll be
100,.
Considering that the man is 98years old and 2027 he'll be 100,
my guess is they gotta get downquick to work and get his part
(23:08):
together and filmed Because younever know, with these things he
could live to be 105.
He could, you know, cease toexist tomorrow.
You know it's kind of a gamble,but you know good on him.
Dan Aykroyd is enthusiasticabout a new Blues Brothers story
(23:33):
the Blues Brothers the Escapeof Joliet Jake.
A forthcoming graphic novelfrom Z2 Comics is due out this
fall and will continue theadventures of Joliet, jake and
Elwood, iconic characters fromthe 1980 film the Blues Brothers
, portrayed by the late JohnBelushi and Dan Aykroyd
respectively.
The book is written by StellaAykroyd, luke Pisano and James
(23:54):
Werner, with art by FelipeSobrero.
Judy Belushi-Pisano, belushi'swidow, who passed away during
production, who contributed tothe initial concept Set.
Two decades after the movie,the escape of Juliet Jake sees
Elwood partnering with a rookiedetective after Jake's jailbreak
.
In his foreword for theHollywood Reporter, aykroyd, who
(24:15):
provided editorial oversight,explains why he considers this
story the total, logical thirdact for Elwood.
Preview pages from the graphicnovel accompany the foreword.
Ackroyd reflects on theextensive list of offenses Jake
and Elwood accumulated duringthe Mission to Pay Cook County's
illegal attacks on the St Helenof the Blessed Shroud Orphanage
(24:38):
, estimating around 50violations.
He enjoyed the ride.
The idea of them as trophyprisoners, legendary figures
like Dillinger and Capone, nowconsidered specimens the
authorities want to keepincarcerated.
This premise offers acompelling starting point to
revisit Jake and Elwood as olderimprisoned men.
Elwood's new path, completewith a small white Roman
(24:59):
Catholic collar, is a total,logical third act in his life.
When Jake mysteriouslydisappears from Joliet
penitentiary and old scores needsettling, the adventure begins.
The graphic novel format allowsfor the Blues Brothers legend to
continue and be passed on inways that film cannot.
The book preserves the spiritof the Blues Brothers,
mischievous recidivists andmusical outlaws who, above all,
(25:23):
cherish the blues.
The request for the briefcasecontaining unearthed lyrics and
music from the greats representsan honorable pursuit.
Joliet Jake's escape serves asa passing of the legacy to a new
generation, echoing the core oftheir original story, keeping
alive what should not beforgotten.
In addition to new adversaries,the story introduces allies who
(25:44):
share a deep respect for theblues as a culture to be
preserved by all who appropriateits infectious African-American
fire and soul.
So I liked Blues Brothers.
I liked the second BluesBrothers as well.
I know it's not as good, but itwas a worthwhile endeavor, so
(26:10):
I'll look forward to readingthis.
Following the Kuti Gatwa's exitfrom Doctor who, the Who-niverse
is set to expand with a newanimated series for the BBC's
CB's channel aimed at apreschool audience.
Expand with a new animatedseries for the BBC's CB's
channel aimed at a preschoolaudience.
This will be the first animatedpreschool series within the
franchise, running independentlyfrom the main live-action show.
(26:32):
The series will feature theDoctor and companions embarking
on adventures through time andspace, facing challenges
suitable for young viewers.
The question of which Doctorwill lead this new series
remains open, especially afterGatwa's recent departure and
Billy Piper's unexpectedappearance in the latest
live-action finale.
Patricia Hidalgo, the BBC'sDirector of Children's Education
(26:54):
, stated quote Everyone iswelcome at CBeebies, including
the Doctor.
This much-beloved franchisecontains millions around the
world, so it's only right thatour younger audience gets to
experience the wonder and themagic of the Doctor in a brand
new format.
This is an extremely excitingopportunity and we are looking
forward to welcoming companiesto pitch for this new project as
we continue our commitment andinvestment in the UK's animation
(27:16):
industry".
The BBC is seeking a passionateproduction company for the
animated series, while Bad Wolfproduces the main Doctor who
series, with Russell T Davies asshowrunner.
The lead for the preschoolseries is yet to be determined
Now.
Familiar Doctors like DavidTennant, matt Smith and Josie
Whitaker could potentiallyheadline the animated series, or
(27:37):
it might introduce a newiteration of the Doctor
alongside original companions.
Russell T Davies' latest Doctorwho concludes in May 2025 with
the departure of the 15th Doctor.
While future live-actionseasons are unconfirmed and
there is speculation about theBBC-Disney deal, the development
of this animated series andlive-action spinoff, the War
Between the Land and Sea,suggests a positive future for
(27:59):
the Doctor who universe.
A debut date on CBB's seriesand the live-action spinoff are
yet to be announced, so watchthis space.
Mr Miracle is going from thefourth world to its first
animated series.
At the Annecy Animation Festivalon Thursday, dc Studios and
(28:20):
Warner Bros Animation announcedthe new adult animated series,
mr Miracle, based on the 2017series from writer Tom King and
artist Mitch Grads about superescape.
Artist Scott Freedy King, partof the DC Brain Trust, serves as
a tech producer and showrunneron Mr Miracle, which is headed
by James Gunn, and Aquamanproducer Peter Saffron is also
(28:48):
adapting the Kingpin's SupergirlWoman of Tomorrow series as an
into a 2026 feature filmstarring Millie Alcock King,
will also serve as the executiveproducer and writer on the
live-action series Lanterns.
Mr Miracle marks the secondadult animated series for DC
Studios, which released theGunn-scripted HBO Max series
Creature Commandos in 2024.
Wb Animation's upcoming DCslate includes the previously
announced animated seriesStarfire, my Adventures with
(29:10):
Green Lantern and DC Superpowers, as well as the animated movie
Dynamic Duo about Robins, dickGrayson and Jason Todd.
Here's the logline for the DCStudios Mr Miracle.
No prison can hold him, no trapcan contain him.
He is Scott Freed, theworldwide celebrity sensation
known as Mr Miracle, and he isthe greatest escape artist who
(29:31):
ever lived.
But can he pull off theultimate trick and escape death
itself?
Something has gone horriblywrong with the perfect life that
Scott and his warrior wife BigBrarda have built for themselves
on Earth.
With war raging between theirhome worlds of Apocalypse and
New Genesis, scott's crueladoptive father, darkseid, seems
to have finally captured theanti-life equation, the ultimate
(29:52):
weapon that will give Darkseidtotal dominance over the
universe.
As the mountains of bodies onboth sides grow ever higher,
only Mr Miracle can stop theslaughter and restore peace, but
the terrible power of theanti-life equation may already
be at work, with his own mind,warping his reality, exposing
his long-buried pain andshattering the fragile happiness
he's found with the woman heloves.
And so begins the Odyssey ofScott Free Mr Miracle, a
(30:15):
harrowing, hilarious,heart-wrenching journey across
the pitfalls of the ordinary andextraordinary, as the son of
God raised by the devil tries tosave his family, his world and
maybe even himself.
Now, in the comics, mr Miracledebuted in 1971's Mr Miracle no
1 by New Gods and Forever Peoplecreator Jack Kirby.
(30:35):
The son of Isaiah, high fatherof New Genesis and ruler of the
New Gods, scott was given toGranny Goodness and raised her
expit.
As Orion, son of Darkseid,ruler of Apocalypse, was raised
by a high father.
The sons were exchanged in partof an armistice reached on the
100th day of the 100th year ofthe Fourth World's War between
the plants of New Genesis andApocalypse.
(30:58):
Forged by the torture of GrannyGoodness, scott earned the
admiration of theApocalypse-raised Big Barda,
leader of the Female Furies andproduct of Granny's expit.
After finally escaping theEarth, scott became the protege
of the escape artist ThaddeusBrown and succeeded him as the
new Mr Miracle.
The costumed super escapeartist would later return to New
Genesis and battle the DarkSide alongside Orion and Barda.
(31:20):
King's 12-issue Mr Miracleseries.
Scott attempted suicide afterasking himself the questions
what can't I escape from?
What shouldn't I escape from?
What does anyone escape fromDeath?
No one escapes from death.
I love Mr Miracle.
Mr Miracle is one of myfavorite you know not, you know
(31:42):
not mainstream superherocharacters.
So yeah, I'll check this out.
And finally, tonight a veterancharacter actor, harris Ulan,
known for his roles in Scarface,ghostbusters 2, star Trek, deep
Space Nine and Ozark, haspassed away at the age of 87 in
New York City due to cardiacarrest.
His manager, sue Liebman,confirmed the news to
(32:04):
Entertainment Weekly.
Born on November 5, 1937 in LosAngeles, ulan had a prolific
six-decade career in film,television and theater, amassing
over 100 roles.
He made his New York stagedebut in 1963 and his first
on-screen debut in 1970's filmthe End of the Road.
His Broadway debut came in 1980with Watch on the Rhine, and he
(32:26):
returned to Broadway inproductions like the Diary of
Anne Frank, the Price and HeddaGabler.
Ulan's film creds includememorable roles such as the
corrupt police officer MelBernstein in the 1983 classic
Scarface, judge Stephen Wexlerin Ghostbusters II and another
corrupt lawman in the 1994thriller, clear and Present
Danger.
He also appeared in Night Moves, st Ives Steel Looking for
(32:50):
Richard Bean and the Hurricane,which he first worked with
Denzel Washington, larryNightingale with him for
Training Day.
On TV, ulan had numerous nobleappearances, including a
correctly acclaimed performancein the Star Trek Deep Space Nine
episode Duet and anEmmy-nominated role in Frasier.
(33:10):
He also had memorable parts in24, buffy, the Vampire Slayer,
entourage and, more recently, asBuddy Decker in the Netflix TV
series Ozark.
His other TV credits includeVeep, the Unbreakable Kimmy
Schmidt and, just like that,billions and Divorce.
Beyond acting, yulin dedicatedseveral years to teaching at
Juilliard and ColumbiaUniversity and worked at stage
(33:31):
productions such as the GlassMenagerie and the Trip to
Bountiful.
At the time of his death, yulinwas preparing to star alongside
his Ozark co-star, laura Linney, in an American classic and
upcoming MGM comedy.
The film's director, michaelHoffman, remembered Yudelin as
quote one of the greatestartists I have ever encountered,
presenting his technique,vitality and character.
(33:52):
Harris Yudelin survived by hiswife, gershon Lohman, son-in-law
Ted Minow, nephew Martin Craneand godchildren Marco and Laura
Greenberg Again, veterancharacter actor Harris Ulan,
dead at the age of 87.
And that brings us to the endof the show for today.
Now please be sure to check usout on social media.
(34:14):
We're on Blue Sky and Twitterat Multiverse Tom Threads,
facebook and Instagram atMultiverse Tonight.
And if you've gotten some valueout of the show and would like
to pay it back, please head onover to Multiverse Tonight,
where you'll find our Patreonand Ko-Fi links, check our show
notes, visit our Tee PublicStore and so much more.
Now, if this is your first timelistening, thank you very much
(34:37):
and welcome.
Now go ahead and hit thatsubscribe button and share it
with others.
Now, thanks to Hot Dope for theintro music and Lobo Loco for
the outro theme music.
Thanks for watching thisedition of Multiverse Tonight.
We'll be back in two weeks withmore sci-fi and comic book news
.
Now, please exit the universein an orderly fashion.
Good night.
Multiverse Night is aproduction of Fact-Tag Journal
(35:01):
Productions.
Copyright 2025.
All rights reserved.
This podcast is part of the TopGoogle Culture Podcast Network.
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