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Right Aid is looking good, imho.
;oD-
Scratch: The Ultimate DJ finds new developer
Publishers Numark Industries and Genius Products have a new developer found their game Scratch: The Ultimate DJ to finish. This is the release of the game, however, passed on to early 2010.
Commotion Interactive picked the thread where developer 7 Studios has left behind. The studio has already been bought by publishers in Activision for the development of DJ Hero. Through a long-term trial was Activision earlier this year, however, requires the source code of the game - which is in possession of 7 Studios - back to publisher Genius Products.
Conspiracy
Genius had Activision and 7 Studios was indicted for the plot against the release of Scratch: The Ultimate DJ, the competition for which they DJ Hero would have to disable. The court stated Genius Products offered by the right. At the moment waiting Commotion Interactive Studios to 7 the source code does return so that the development of Scratch weather can be extracted.
While Scratch: The Ultimate DJ therefore necessarily be passed on to appear in 2010 DJ Hero still in November of this year.
According to Fred Galp of Numark, all contracts for his game is still in tact and music producer Quincy Jones cooperated with Scratch: The Ultimate DJ services.
Source: http://translate.google.com/translate?hl=en&sl=nl&u=http://www.gamez.nl/ps3/nieuws/27717/scratch-the-ultimate-dj-vindt-nieuwe-ontwikkelaar.html
FRP is holding up nicely, imho.
I wonder how many pre-orders are in for Scratch: The Ultimate DJ, set for release in early 2010?
What I do not like about Activision is they do not play by the rules.
In the end, these business practices could hurt profit margins.
- all, imho.
Genius Products announces new development team for Scratch:
The Ultimate DJ
BEDLAM GAMES HIRED TO COMPLETE DEVELOPMENT ON SCRATCH: THE ULTIMATE DJ
SANTA MONICA, Calif. – Aug. 6, 2009 – Scratch DJ Game, LLC, a joint venture between Numark Industries, LLC and Genius Products, LLC announced today that it has recently hired Commotion Interactive, the music and party game division of Bedlam Games Inc., to complete development of its much anticipated music rhythm game, Scratch: The Ultimate DJ. In choosing the industry veterans at Commotion Interactive, Scratch DJ Game, LLC underscores its commitment to successfully launching Scratch and establishing a strong footprint in the progressively growing and competitive music gaming industry.
“With Scratch: The Ultimate DJ we will deliver an innovative, ground breaking video game for fans of hip-hop,” said Jack O’Donnell, CEO of Scratch DJ Game, LLC. “We have selected Commotion and are confident that they are the best choice to help us achieve our mission. The team’s rich and varied development experience includes talent from Rockstar Games, Ubisoft, and Electronic Arts.”
“Scratch: The Ultimate DJ offers a revolutionary take on the existing music/rhythm genre. The combination of the game and the proprietary Scratch Deck controller will bring the art of DJing to the masses,” said Trevor Fencott, CEO of Bedlam Games Inc. “The Scratch Deck combines a touch sensitive turntable from Numark with the drumpads from the iconic Akai Professional MPC. This combination delivers an authentic music gaming experience unlike any other. We are thrilled to embark on this venture with Scratch, and can’t wait for this exciting title to hit store shelves.”
Commotion’s mission is to deliver music and party game titles borne of exceptional design, fostered by meticulous planning, and realized by a world-class team. The studio was formed in 2006 by a seasoned group of industry professionals who are united in their belief that games can be developed on a creative level. The Commotion team is dedicated to providing quality titles that resonate with consumers looking for an entertaining and original gaming experience.
Scratch: The Ultimate DJ will be available in early 2010 on the Xbox 360® video game and entertainment system from Microsoft and PLAYSTATION®3 computer entertainment system. For more information on Scratch: The Ultimate DJ, please visit: http://www.scratchvideogame.com/
# # #
About Scratch DJ Game, LLC
Scratch DJ Game, LLC is a joint venture between Numark Industries and Genius Products formed for the purpose of bringing innovative music games to market.
http://www.scratchvideogame.com/
About Numark Industries
Numark Industries is the global leader of professional DJ and audio equipment, and is known for providing progressive breakthrough technology. Since 1971, Numark has designed and delivered hundreds of innovative DJ products, resulting in numerous music industry “firsts”. Today, the company is at the forefront of the digital DJ revolution, and is recognized for creating the best hardware controllers for professional and semi-professional DJ software in the industry. The team at Numark, under its Ion Audio division, has also enjoyed success in developing music gaming peripherals, having produced and distributed the award-winning Drum Rocker, the Premium Drum Set Controller for the Rock Band music game franchise. For more information, visit www.numark.com; images are available at http://www.numark.com/media.
About Genius Products
Genius Products, Inc. (GNPR.PK) is the owner of Genius Products, LLC, a leading independent home-entertainment distribution company that produces, licenses and distributes a valuable library of motion pictures, television programming, family, lifestyle and trend entertainment on DVD and other emerging platforms through its expansive network of retailers throughout the U.S.
About Commotion Interactive
Commotion Interactive is the music and party game division of Bedlam Games Inc., an independent venture capital backed developer of next generation console video games located in Toronto, Canada. Formed in 2006 and independent since 2007 the studio has gathered some of the finest industry veterans to come together to develop quality titles for current generation console platforms. For more information, please visit www.commotioninteractive.com
Source: http://gamerinvestments.com/video-game-stocks/index.php/2009/08/06/genius-products-announces-new-development-team-for-scratch-ultimate-dj/
I am looking for a bottom ~ the .30's or lower.
The bondholders might make for a bad day for commons, imho.
GLTA
Interview: Scratch: The Ultimate DJ Gets New Developer, 2010 Release
Scratch: The Ultmate DJ now has a new developer. Turntable maker Numark and publisher Genius Products announced they've tapped Commotion Interactive, the music and party game division of Toronto-based Bedlam Games, to finish developing the embattled music title.
Scratch has been almost from the start at the core of a complex and contentious legal battle with publisher Activision and its rival product, DJ Hero. Activision acquired the game's original developer, 7 Studios, amid accusations that it was motivated to delay the competing title's release, and 7 Studios returned fire with claims of "unsavory business practices."
A court has since ordered 7 Studios to return the game's source code to Genius and Numark, but speaking to Gamasutra, Numark gaming product manager Fred Galpern says that order remains unfulfilled.
"To date, we still have not received everything the court ordered to be returned," Galpern told us. He declined to comment on how much, if any, of the original assets and code Commotion will have to work with, stating only: "We are moving forward aggressively to complete the game."
Scratch is now slated for an "early 2010" release on Xbox 360 and PlayStation 3; although it looked like the game, when announced, was set to beat DJ Hero to market, it's clear this won't be the case, as DJ Hero is part of Activision's Fall 2009 release portfolio.
But Galpern's still confident in the game's prospects, and in its new developer. "I cannot comment on anything related to our lawsuit against Activision; however we are confident Scratch will be a superior DJ gaming experience," he says.
All of the company's previously-announced music partnerships still stand, Galpern adds, most notably the involvement of renowned musician-producer Quincy "QD3" Jones. "It is all moving forward nicely and we will have more music announcements in the future," he says.
So why was Commotion, established as part of venture-funded Bedlam in 2006, chosen to pick up where 7 Studios left off? "We chose Commotion from among several leading development teams, because they bring an excellent mix of experienced game development professionals and young, passionate talent," says Galpern. "Their experience includes developing games at Rockstar, Ubisoft and EA. The Commotion team includes game development pros who also DJ and produce hip hop music when they aren’t making games."
Bedlam CEO Trevor Fencott also commented, in a statement alongside today's announcement. "The combination of the game and the proprietary Scratch Deck controller will bring the art of DJing to the masses," he said.
Fencott highlighted the authenticity of the peripherals involved, and Scratch's intended realism, as a primary competitive advantage. "The Scratch Deck combines a touch sensitive turntable from Numark with the drumpads from the iconic Akai Professional MPC," he notes.
"This combination delivers an authentic music gaming experience unlike any other. We are thrilled to embark on this venture with Scratch, and can’t wait for this exciting title to hit store shelves."
Source: http://www.gamasutra.com/php-bin/news_index.php?story=24693
Commotion Interactive Homepage: http://www.commotioninteractive.com/
Scratch: The Ultimate DJ Has A New Developer, New Date
After months of legal wrangling—after the developer of Scratch: The Ultimate DJ was purchased by its biggest competitor—Genius Products and Numark Industries have found a new developer, Commotion Interactive, the music and party game division of Bedlam Games.
Scratch: The Ultimate DJ, which was originally planned to beat Activision's DJ Hero to market, will now release months later, planned for an "early 2010" release on the PlayStation 3 and Xbox 360. That change in studio and an extended development time on Scratch will result in some changes to the game. The final version of Scratch: The Ultimate DJ will add new music and feature a new visual style, one different from the graphical treatment created by previous developer 7 Studios.
We spoke with Fred Galpern from Numark and Trevor Fencott, CEO of Commotion Interactive, to discuss the changes to Scratch, prior to the official announcement.
Galpern says that the publishers of Scratch decided to sign Commotion based on its experience, its ability to get the game out the door.
"We knew that they could get it out," Galpern said during a phone interview with Kotaku. "We're trying to build a franchise with Scratch. The real core of it is their experience, guys that worked at Rockstar, Ubisoft and EA."
The DJ game was originally due to ship to retail a few months from now, not next year. But Galpern said the game is in good shape now—and has been for some time.
"The game was on track, it was right where we needed it to be," he said, noting that the E3 demo "looked good, songs were playable, many of our DJ players were available." But the version of Scratch: The Ultimate DJ that E3 attendees played may not be aesthetically indicative of the final product.
Galpern says the graphical updates are "not a wholesale visual style" change, but something "a little bit more modern, more in line with hip hop culture today."
"It was a joint decision," Commotion's Fencott says of the change. "As we were updating some of the music, we thought maybe make [the aesthetics] a little more congruent with DJ culture." Expect to see some of those changes roll out over the next few months, as part of Scratch's ongoing promotional campaign.
What won't change is the game's controller. That's something Genius and Numark appear to be happy with, as is. With its touch sensitive turntable and authentic hardware, Galpern says its DJ offering will offer an "authentic experience of being a DJ."
Also staying put are the game's announced collaborators. Mix Master Mike and Quincy "QD3" Jones III are still on board.
While the change in developers on Scratch: The Ultimate DJ may not concern Numark and Genius, who are confident in the game's existing mechanics, the shift to early 2010 could present some problems. Not only is the first half of the year becoming increasingly competitive, Scratch now has to release after DJ Hero, one of a half-dozen rhythm music games releasing in the holiday season. Galpern says he's not concerned about the new schedule.
"It actually works out well for us," he said. "I would rather not be part of the glut. It's not the ideal, but we're gonna make the best of the situation."
Potentially more concerning is the success of its biggest competitor and a competition for shelf space.
"Are we concerned about the competition of another DJ game? No," Galpern said, boasting of Scratch's creative capabilities and authenticity. "If DJ Hero doesn't do well, if it's not a success, that will be more of a concern for us." But as for competing for shelf space against the other big box music games, Galpern says "I think by spring, whatever hasn't sold will be discounted."
Right now, Galpern and Fencott seem mostly concerned about their own game, not someone else's.
We hope to have more from Scratch: The Ultimate DJ in the coming months to chart the game's progress. Keep an eye open.
Source: http://kotaku.com/5329120/scratch-the-ultimate-dj-has-a-new-developer-new-date
Bedlam Games Homepage: http://www.bedlamgames.com/
Scratch: The Ultimate DJ gets new developers
It looks like we're finally past all the drama that came about with Scratch: The Ultimate DJ, between Genius, Numark, and Activision. Today we can announce that Scratch has new developers: Commotion Interactive, the music and party game division of Bedlam Games. That's great news, as we can get back on track for early 2010 release on both the Xbox 360 and PS3.
Nothing has changed as far as development or game direction goes. Fred Galpern, Gaming product manager at Numark, tells Destructoid that the game play has not changed under this new development team.
"The game itself will remain true to what has been released in the press so far," Galpern says. "The core gameplay has received some well deserved praise through focus tests and the sweet party we threw at E3. With so much positive feedback, we’re not planning to change the core features."
It sounds like the game is in good hands with Commotion Interactive. Galpern says that the team is passionate about both gaming and hip hop, and calls their progress to date "truly amazing."
"The Commotion team is comprised of developers that come from a wide variety of respected studios including Rockstar, Ubisoft and EA," Galpern tells us. "While this is Commotion’s first music game, the combination of their game development background and true appreciation of hip-hop makes them the perfect team."
And as far as the competition, Activision's DJ Hero, goes, they don't sound worried at all: "We are focusing launching our own game and making it the best in the genre."
Destructoid wishes the whole Scratch team the best of luck. I personally can't wait to get my hands on that Numark turntable and Akai MPC touchpads.
Source: http://www.destructoid.com/scratch-the-ultimate-dj-gets-new-developers-142966.phtml
GNPR is rebounding nicely, imho.
Image Updates Logo, Web Site
To help mark its 25th anniversary, Image Entertainment has unveiled a new print logo to go along with a redesigned Web site and updated animated theatrical logo — the latter due in September with the release of The Other Man, starring Liam Neeson and Antonio Banderas.
The new site design will be unveiled in August, according to Steve DeMille, SVP of marketing with Chatsworth, Calif.-based Image.
In addition to an updated font style, the print logo incorporates a red-colored pixel to dot the letter ‘I’ in Image, in a nod to the digital future, DeMille said.
The new logo is appearing in print ads for the Sept. 29 Blu-ray/DVD release of comedy Management, starring Jennifer Aniston and Steve Zahn.
“We’re freshening up the logo and making a little change on the aesthetics,” DeMille said.
Source: http://www.homemediamagazine.com/image/image-updates-logo-web-site-16399
Liquidation Motors has a ring to it...
However, I am still waiting for ~ .05 (or lower) to get behind the wheel :oD
Sesame Street Explores Animals on New DVD
Sesame Workshop and Genius Products are planning to release a band-new direct-to-DVD feature entitled "Elmo's Animal Adventures" on October 6, 2009. This 45-minute DVD will feature three fun-filled adventures all about animals. The all-new video also features appearances by Patricia Arquette and Cameron Diaz.
In one story Elmo and Telly find Little Bo Peep’s missing cow by following clues and working together as a team. In another story Elmo and Abby use their knowledge of animal facts to succeed in the "Find The Amphibian Game." In the third story, Elmo goes on a camping trip and learns about the different types of food that animals eat.
The all-new DVD will tie-in to the 40th season of Sesame Street (which kicks-off in November); and aside from exploring the animal kingdom, the video will also address important issues - such as teamwork, sharing and problem solving.
Source: http://www.muppetnewsflash.com/2009/07/sesame-street-explores-animals-on-new.html
Not to sound too bashful, but I am amazed GMGMQ has held up as long as it has. Timing is everything with this one. Common GMGMQ, get to sub penny where you belong, then I might roll the dice again. ;oD
What would be cool is the ability to browse / reserve Movie and Video Game inventory on the Internet for local kiosk locations using a unique customer number, that way you swipe your RFID card and get your selections in mere seconds. ;oD
There’s a better than even chance Fairpoint Communications will file for bankruptcy. What that means to New Hampshire is unclear, though many will find opportunity in it. It’s unlikely service would be shut off, but monies that flow to local charities from Fairpoint would likely take a hit.
Earlier this year the state helped Fairpoint by letting it take out $50 million set aside by Verizon in a special account to fund big projects in the state, such as expanded broadband Internet options. In exchange, Fairpoint promised to spend $65 million in the state before 2012. It’ll be a hard promise for the state to enforce.
The problems at Fairpoint reflect the aged nature of how this state and most others regulate utilities. The Fairpoints of the world are no longer monopolies. They compete against a lot of local businesses that sell dish connections, cable connections, and phone and Internet service. That’s readily reflected in that neither Hippo nor I personally are customers.
While you never want to see a business fail, especially one such as Fairpoint with its employees, charitable giving and many local vendors, new business life springs from failure. That’s one of the more impressive qualities New Hampshire residents possess: when we lose our jobs many of us open our own businesses.
Source: http://www.hippopress.com/columns.html
New Veggie Tales Focuses on Giving
It’s beginning to look a lot like Christmas! This fall, Big Idea will unwrap its first new Christmas holiday DVD title in seven years, Saint Nicholas—A Story of Joyful Giving. The release will be supported by a comprehensive fourth-quarter marketing and promotional campaign targeting both Christian and general markets. Just in time for the holiday gift giving season, Saint Nicholas—A Story of Joyful Giving debuts October 3rd in the CBA through Word Distribution ($14.99 SRP) and October 6th in the general market through Genius Products ($14.93 SRP).
Featuring all-stars Bob the Tomato and Larry the Cucumber, this new seasonal DVD tells the story of Saint Nicholas, the world’s greatest giver, and introduces Nicky the Pepper, the first new VeggieTales character in five years. Bonus features include an original new song by critically acclaimed singer-songwriter Matthew West, “Give This Christmas Away,” performed by West and GRAMMY Award-winning artist Amy Grant.
“VeggieTales Christmas releases are fan-favorites, and Saint Nicholas is sure to become an evergreen title,” said Greg Fritz, SVP of Sales and Marketing at Big Idea. “A national cross-promotion with Operation Christmas Child and extensive radio play of the featured song by Matthew West with Amy Grant will build great awareness of the timely message of giving.”
Source: http://www.cmcentral.com/rss/9020.html
"An Empress And The Warriors" Special Collectors' Edition Comes to DVD 7/21/09
A threatened kingdom locked in an epic battle for survival searches for a hero in AN EMPRESS & THE WARRIORS, debuting July 21st as a Special Collector’s Edition DVD from Genius Products and The Weinstein Company, under their heralded Dragon Dynasty label. AN EMPRESS & THE WARRIORS is a “fast-moving crowdpleaser” (Variety) that features stunning epic battle sequences, brilliantly designed costumes, weapons, and armor, and slick camerawork certain to keep fans riveted to their seats.
Synopsis:
When the Kingdom of Yan’s longtime leader is murdered by his own nephew, the monarch’s only daughter (Chen) ascends to the throne. As the kingdom is threatened by an invading army, she must join forces with a local general (Yen) and go to battle to avenge her father’s death and bring safety to her people.
Special Features:
Feature Commentary by Hong Kong Cinema Expert Bey Logan
Basics:
Price: $19.97
Street Date: July 21, 2009
Order Due Date: June 9, 2009
Catalog Number: 1000276
Rating: R
Run time: 95 minutes
Language: English and Cantonese
Subtitles: English and Spanish
Closed Captioned
Buy it at Amazon.com
Source: http://hkfilmnews.blogspot.com/2009/07/empress-and-warriors-special-collectors.html
OMEX is on my radar.
Maybe these companies (and others) will scramble for IP ownership of the Blockbuster brand... After a Chapter 7 liquidation. To compete against Redbox et al., a merger between Netflix and Blockbuster did also cross my mind. GLTA
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Blockbuster Express Kiosk Rentals Now $1 Per Day
Blockbuster Inc.’s nascent Express rental kiosks, which have just begun rolling out, will offer new-release movies for $1, not $1.99, as previously reported, according to a spokesperson.
Dallas-based Blockbuster, which plans to rollout 10,000 branded kiosks via a partnership with NCR Corp. through 2010, had originally offered first-day DVD and Blu-ray Disc rentals for $1.99, with subsequent rental days for 99 cents, according to NCR.
The Express kiosks will still charge $1.99 for first-day Blu-ray rentals.
At $1.99 for the first day DVD rental, Blockbuster Express would have charged a 50% premium compared to other kiosks, including those from industry leader Redbox, The New Release, DVDPlay and e-Play, among others.
The price reduction could help the kiosk industry realize a reported goal of a 60,000-unit install base at the end of 2010.
“This news is important because it signals that Blockbuster is more serious about trying to compete against Redbox,” said Edward Woo, analyst with Wedbush Morgan Securities in Los Angeles. “It would have been tough to compete at a higher price point, especially since Blockbuster is the new entrant in the market. As long as it’s a $1 per day, the low price and convenience will drive growth in this industry.”
The price reduction would also suggest Blockbuster Express — similar to other kiosks — is not involved in revenue-sharing deals with the studios due to the minimum transaction fee charged by studios per rental.
With a minimum fee in most rev-share agreements from $1 per transaction, at $1.99 Blockbuster could have realized a 66% gross return for a typical two-day rental ($1.99 + 99 cents for second day minus $1 transaction fee). At $1, the gross drops to 50%.
“That changes a lot,” said Tom Hannah, owner of VideoQuest in Chicago.
A Blockbuster representative was not immediately available for comment.
Hannah said the rental price reduction could accelerate kiosk market penetration and encroachment into brick-and-mortar rental transactions. He said it is not unusual to find third-party kiosks located in supermarkets and malls in close proximity to a Blockbuster, Movie Gallery or Hollywood Video.
“And some locations are getting two machines,” Hannah said.
His response to kiosks is to become “the last man standing,” a strategy that includes operating with a smaller overhead than Blockbuster, Gallery and Hollywood storefronts and targeting consumers not interested in dealing with a machine.
Hannah said new-movie releases (within the past two months) contribute to 60% to 70% of his revenue, compared to 100% for kiosks. He said that even if 30% to 40% of his revenue is catalog rental (older than six months), sellthrough and related business, kiosks could still negatively impact his revenues as much as 20%.
“Everybody is feeling the kiosks,” Hannah said.
Source: http://www.homemediamagazine.com/blockbuster/blockbuster-express-kiosk-rentals-now-1-day-16199
Bedtime With Elmo DVD
It’s bedtime on Sesame Street and like all little children, Elmo doesn’t want to go to sleep yet, he wants to play. After all the 4th of July festivities this year, children across the country will be feeling the same way, and Sesame Workshop and Genius Products are ready to help! The nighttime routine gets a little easier when Bedtime With Elmo debuts on DVD July 7 from Genius Products and Sesame Workshop, the non-profit educational organization behind Sesame Street.
Here are some of their great tips for getting kids in bed…and keeping them in bed:
-Establish a Consistent and Positive Bedtime Routine
Help your child transition to bed by having predictable activities that take place at the same time each night, such as going to the bathroom, brushing teeth, getting into pajamas and reading stories. Children can be comforted by routine and benefit if their bedtime schedule is followed as regularly as possible.
-Quiet Playtime
Help your child wind down from the day by getting him into pajamas earlier than usual and engaging in relaxing activities like reading, playing a quiet game, doing a puzzle, or drawing together. Give him extra long cuddles before putting him to bed!
-Sharing Special Moments
Talk to your child about her day before going to sleep. Ask her to choose a favorite part of the day and discuss why it was special. Encourage her to think of something that she is looking forward to doing tomorrow as she falls asleep.
-Bedtime Stories
Help your child choose a favorite book at bedtime. After reading the story, ask him what he thinks his favorite character might do to get ready for bed. Talk about ways his bedtime routines might be similar or different. Remind him that everyone needs a good night’s sleep to feel rested and energized in the morning!
-Glimmer of Light
Help your child feel safe when sleeping in the dark by placing a small night light in his room or hallway. You can also let him keep a small flashlight under his pillow to help him feel safe. Talk to him about how he is feeling and let him know that while it is okay to be scared, reassure him that there is nothing to be afraid of in the dark and you are always close by if he needs you.
-Sweet Dreams
Provide your child with a quiet, cozy and comfortable bedroom for her to sleep in. Your child should look forward to sleeping in her room and feel safe and secure. Allow her to have her favorite blanket or stuffed animal nearby for comfort when going to bed. You can also set up a CD player to play soft calming music or lullabies as she falls asleep.
Source: http://www.momadvice.com/reviews/index.php/2009/06/30/giveaway-bedtime-with-elmo-dvd/
Interesting, I agree.
I agree, buy something noone else wants. I see Kiosk, set-top and internet streaming as the future for BBI. I still do see a place for the brick and mortar in some form or fashion. Product tie-ins are high markup items. Fortune favors the bold. GLTA
IGN E3 2009 Demo of Scratch: The Ultimate DJ
Check Out The Video!
Part 1:
http://xbox360.ign.com/dor/objects/14287882/scratch-the-ultimate-dj/videos/e3live_Scratch_pt1.html
Part 2:
http://xbox360.ign.com/dor/objects/14287882/scratch-the-ultimate-dj/videos/e3live_Scratch_pt2.html
The ultimate bottom is a gradual decline to the .30's imho.
Patience is a virtue.
GLTA
The Motion Hearing (TO POST AN UNDERTAKING ON APPEAL AND RELEASE PLTF'S BOND) on June 29th was GRANTED!
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Recent Case Summary
Case Number: BC411687
SCRATCH DJ GAME LLC VS ACTIVISION PUBLISHING INC ET AL
Future Hearings
08/12/2009 at 08:30 am in department 38 at 111 North Hill Street, Los Angeles, CA 90012
Conference-Case Management
Recent Documents Filed
06/24/2009 Objection Document (EVIDENTIARY )
Filed by Attorney for Defendant/Respondent
06/24/2009 Objection Document (EVIDENTIARY )
Filed by Attorney for Plaintiff/Petitioner
06/23/2009 Brief-Reply
Filed by Attorney for Plaintiff/Petitioner
06/22/2009 Answer to First Amended Complaint
Filed by Atty for Defendant and Cross-Compl
06/19/2009 Objection Document (EVIDENTIARY )
Filed by Attorney for Defendant/Respondent
06/19/2009 Opposition Document
Filed by Attorney for Defendant/Respondent
06/16/2009 Notice (OF ENTRY OF COURT ORDER )
Filed by Attorney for Respondent
06/12/2009 Ntc to Reptr/Mon to Prep Transcrpt
Filed by Clerk
06/12/2009 Answer to Cross-Complaint
Filed by Atty for Plaintiff and Cross-Deft
06/11/2009 Stipulation and Order (re briefing schedule and hrg date )
Filed by Atty for Deft and Cross-Complnt
06/10/2009 Notice of Motion (for undertaking on appeal )
Filed by Attorney for Petitioner
06/08/2009 Notice of Association of Attorneys
Filed by Attorney for Plaintiff/Petitioner
06/08/2009 Answer to Cross-Complaint
Filed by Attorney for Plaintiff/Petitioner
Proceedings Held
06/25/2009 at 09:30 am in Department 85, James C. Chalfant, Presiding
Motion Hearing (TO POST AN UNDERTAKING ON APPEALAND RELEASE PLTF'S BOND) - Granted
06/12/2009 at 02:28 pm in Department 85, James C. Chalfant, Presiding
Court Order - Completed
Source: http://www.lasuperiorcourt.org/civilCaseSummary/index.asp?CaseType=Civil
Complete Tarantino/Rodriguez GRINDHOUSE coming to Blu-ray
We just might see the COMPLETE Theatrical Experience of GRINDHOUSE on Blu-ray very soon.
An early announcement to retailers indicates that Genius Products and The Weinstein Company are set to release Robert Rodriguez and Quentin Tarantino's GRINDHOUSE on Blu-ray on August 11.
No edition details are available, other than this would be a two-disc set, but it may well be the theatrical Grindhouse double feature.
If true, this would be the first time that the entire presentation has been available for home viewing in the U.S. (sans Cable broadcasts). A 6-disc DVD collection was previously released in Japan, and included all of the faux trailers along with a host of bonus features. With the added capacity of the BD format, it's very likely that we could see this material show up here. DEATH PROOF and PLANET TERROR in HD? Sign us up!
Source: http://www.fangoria.com/home/news/16-dvd-a-blu-ray/3027-complete-tarantinorodriguez-grindhouse-coming-to-blu-ray.html
Image reverses most of its losses
Image Entertainment dramatically narrowed its losses for fiscal 2009, falling just shy of moving into the black.
Blaming a weak economy for the softer than expected performance, Image recorded a $1.8 million net loss for the full year, greatly slimming its $23 million loss a year earlier. Annual revenue rose 36% to $130.7 million.
The company posted a $3.3 million net loss for the three months ended March 31, again significantly improving its performance of a year earlier, when it lost $14.7 million. Quarterly revenue lifted 2.3% to $26.6 million.
For much of Image’s fiscal 2009, the company felt on the right business track, cutting expenses and shifting to releasing higher-profile DVD product, despite the distraction of two collapsed mergers, with BTP Acquisition Company and Nyx Acquisitions.
However, the recession ultimately prevented Image from returning to profitability in 2009.
“Despite the efforts of the big revenue increases, we didn’t achieve profitability,” Image president/chief financial officer Jeff Framer said in a Thursday call with analysts. “We weren’t impacted by the economic slowdown in the first nine months, but now we are seeing reduction in retail purchases and increased product returns. … Our [store] customers appear to be aggressively conserving cash, and are being conservative with their inventory.”
Image’s standard-definition DVD titles were among the worst hit areas in the last part of the year, with revenue down 16.4% from fourth-quarter 2008, to $20 million. Faring better was Blu-ray Disc revenue, multiplying six times to $1.3 million. Also enjoying momentum, digital revenue climbed 177% to $1.5 million.
Answering the rough financial climate, Image reduced its executive ranks twice this year, in February and June, saving a total of $3 million in personnel costs.
During the call, Image disclosed that an auditing firm will soon announce that it has substantial doubt about Image’s ability to continue as a going concern. This information will be included in Image’s 10-K to be filed on June 29.
However, Image is still pushing ahead with its fiscal 2010 goals. The company recently hired a financial advisor to suggest various strategic opportunities, including exploring the possibility of another sale.
Image is upbeat about its coming slate of feature films starring well-known talent, including Management with Jennifer Aniston and The Edge of Love with Kiera Knightley. Image also will soon street Terry Fator: Live From Las Vegas, starring the popular comedian, on Sept. 1.
“Going forward, we expect to work to reduce our costs further, and work to save more money,” said Framer. “Our advisor will also keep looking at various alternatives for Image.”
Source: http://www.videobusiness.com/article/CA6667585.html
GLTY,
Here are some lucky numbers I found in a fortune cookie today you might wanna try out on the roulette wheel!
;oD
Lucky Numbers: 5, 9, 12, 15, 32, 35
FRP is down ~ 18% so I would say it is bad news, imho.
glta
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
"FairPoint Communications Inc (FRP.N: Quote, Profile, Research) began a private exchange offer for all of its 13.125 percent senior notes due 2018, in a bid to save on cash interest expenses and to remain in compliance with the terms of its senior secured credit facility.
The rural telecom services provider said it has not been able to fully execute its 2009 operating plan due to issues following the transition to its new billing system and its revenue has continued to decline.
Lower cash collections were putting further stress on liquidity, it added.
Should these factors persist, the company may default on interest payments due Oct. 1 on the notes, the company said.
In March, FairPoint suspended its quarterly dividend and said its transition to a new billing platform could hurt liquidity in the first half of 2009.
A minimum of 95 percent of the aggregate principal amount of the outstanding notes must be tendered for exchange before the expiration date of July 22 to consummate the offer, it said."
Source: http://www.reuters.com/article/marketsNewsUS/idINBNG43612120090624
Hands-on freestyle demo of Scratch: The Ultimate DJ
Check It Out!
Scratch the Ultimate DJ Game Demo Video and Review
URB went and checked out the upcoming Scratch the Ultimate DJ game and discovered a game that's about as "real" as you're gonna get. The game prides itself on realism and walking the line between playing a game and actually making music. And we can confirm that Scratch is very real.
The game has two modes—Solo and Studio. Solo is based around gameplay, where you match the beats, samples and scratches to the song being played using a combination of MPC-style control pads (produced in conjunction with actual MPC manufactuer Akai), a crossfader (which works as a toggle rather than a sliding fader) and of course the turntable (Numark's standard CD-J wheel). It's standard rhythm gaming fair and many players might leave it at that. But game designers Genius are mostly enthused about the additional features.
The game play mode itself offers ample room to "improvise," allowing the player to insert his own scratches and sample triggers in between the scoring notes. And the live audio scrubbing means that manipulating the turntable wheel and crossfader creates real scratches, just like you can on a professional CD-J. The game even follows the nuances of scratching, tracking hundreds of variation of real scratches performed by actual DJs. We're told that there will also be tutorials to teach proper scratching technique, meaning the next generation of CD-J turntablist could be trained using the game.
Taking the actual music controller concept farther is Studio Mode, where you scratch and sample over beats without any actual game being played. There's preloaded songs and samples to play—including Tech N9ne, Beastie Boys, Kanye West—and you can plug in your iPod and scratch/sample over any track you desire. You can also plug a mic into the controller to record your own samples, or freestyle over the track. And you'll be able to upload your custom cuts online, and battle other DJs on the usual live gaming services.
There's also plans to package Scratch with a "Garageband-like software program that will allow you to use the controller for "real" music production. We didn't see these features, but Genius SVP Mike Rubinelli was clearly enthusiastic, rattling off his own hip-hop knowledge that left us impressed. Plus the game's graffiti inspired art direction looked like something right out of an old DMC Battle DVD. When it comes to the techniques used by hip-hop DJs, Scratch is the closest we've seen (so far) a game come to performing as an actual music tool.
Gameplay Video:
GE appears to be headed to lower territory, imho.
QD3 Interview About Scratch The Ultimate DJ
Check It Out!
Source: http://www.viddler.com/explore/gamertagradio/videos/80/
Scratch is turning out to be THE DJ game to get, imho.
I agree, bring on the cheapies!
GLTY :o)
Genius Products takes you down Project Runway
Genius Products has just added Project Runway: The Complete Fifth Season to their DVD release line-up, scheduling the fashion challenged TV show for August 4th.
The Bravo TV series starring ex-supermodel Heidi Klum and self-proclaimed fashion expert Tim Gunn will dish out another series of episodes including celebrity judges as well as contestants who think they have what it takes to become the next supermodel.
Arriving as a 4-disc DVD set in the show’s fullframe presentation with Dolby Stereo audio, the release will offer Never-before-seen Extended Episodes among its extras.
“Project Runway: The Complete Fifth Season” is coming to a store near you on August 4th for $27.95.
Source: http://www.dvdreview.com/news/viewnews.asp?id=11181
Can Numark’s Scratch kick DJ Hero to the curb?
While the buzz continues to build around Activision’s Guitar Hero spin-off, DJ Hero, another company already plans to capitalize on the market, too. Titled Scratch: The Ultimate DJ, the new game too focuses on a hands-on approach to DJ’ing, though with greater attention to realism, thanks to a partnership with turntable hardware gods, Numark. Much like Rock Band, Scratch gives Activision a run for its money, but for a good reason.
Despite Guitar Hero’s brand name popularity, the quality of the games have been under heightened scrutiny, ever since original developers Harmonix bailed and created, Rock Band. Since the split, some have slammed recent Guitar Hero efforts, labeling it as a glorified Simon, instead finding solace with Rock Band, which appropriates itself with the actual instruments. History repeats itself, only it’s not Harmonix to thank this time around, it’s Scratch.
Some may have already heard of Scratch; they recently sued Activision over shady dealings with one of their developers. Nevertheless, not even corporate espionage has seemed to hurt Scratch’s edge. The game looks to have a clear one up on the simpler DJ Hero. Numark has designed the Scratch peripheral, Scratchdeck, from the ground up, using all of their actual turntable know-how and parts. In fact, they’re calling it “the first and only legitimate DJ controller for gamers.” Unlike the three button and one fader option for DJ Hero, Scratch’s turntable is buttonless, accompanied by a side panel with a crossfader and five Akai Pro MPC drum pads, color-coded in the familiar red, blue, yellow, orange, and green.
Having more buttons than DJ Hero not only promises more complicated gameplay but also more realistic techniques. Numark emphasizes that you need more than a crossfader and a turntable for the “true feel of hip hop” and integrates the MPC drum pads into the gameplay. DJ Hero’s focus seems to be exclusively on performing their preset mash-ups, hence the two crossfaders. For Scratch, the use of the turntable with the crossfader allows for the player to perform hundreds of real DJing techniques to the extent that Numark claims you’ll be able to graduate your skills to the real thing or vice versa. There’s a strong feel of legitimate improvisation within Scratch’s format, too. Players can work their own beats into a track, and as long as your beats are on, they’ll not only count, but you’ll earn extra points for improvisation. The same goes for scratching outside of freestyle sections.
What’s more, Numark isn’t the only big industry name associated with this project. Scratch’s production has been overseen by the Beastie Boys’ Mix Master Mike and major hip hop producer Quincy “QD3″ Jones III. It might just be Numark’s hype machine, but I’ve gotta say, if you’re thinking about picking up a DJ game, Scratch looks like the one that means business.
Source: http://consequenceofsound.net/2009/06/15/can-numarks-scratch-kick-dj-hero-to-the-curb/
Scratch: The Ultimate DJ, Itchin’ for a Scratch!
“Go DJ, cuz that’s my DJ. Go DJ, cuz that’s my DJ.” I’ve been a fan of all kinds of music for a very long time. I’ve been a fan of rhythm and music games for a very long time. I’ve often wondered though if hip-hop would ever find its way into the mainstream beyond being on a soundtrack. I’ve played my share of Guitar Hero and Rock Band but this is something different. It’s different not only from a music standpoint but from a control standpoint. And to be honest, I’m starting to like it. I’m starting to believe in Scratch: The Ultimate DJ.
This game brings a sort of “Breakin’ 2: Electric Boogaloo” type of vibe upon me that is getting harder to ignore especially as I channel my innermost Turbo and Ozone. Couple that with the fact that Numark is involved and this game has a major leg up over “that other DJ game”. Numark is a long time maker of DJ equipment and they’ve put their mark on the Scratch Deck you’ll be using with Scratch: The Ultimate DJ. The Scratch Deck combines two essential elements of the DJ and hip-hop experience – a free-spinning, touch sensitive turntable with a crossfader and 5 Akai Pro MPC-style drum pads.
The turntable allows players to add their own style and manipulate the songs in real time, while the MPC-style drum pads give players the opportunity to perform and customize tracks by triggering samples using the very same pads that are the cornerstone of professional hip-hop beat production. Samples can either be pre-loaded into the game using 60 unique battle records that will ship with the software, or players can record and upload their own samples using a compatible USB microphone. And it doesn’t matter if you’re left-handed because you can flip the turntable. The Scratch Deck is also wireless!
This game is coming at a perfect time for me because I just got a pair of kick ass headsets that would be almost perfect for a turntable. “Hey DJ won’t you play my song, keep me dancing all night long.” If I had to play one of these DJ games, I’d have to choose Scratch: The Ultimate DJ by a very long mile over DJ Hero. The authenticity of the equipment and the music selection is all win. The music alone puts this game on classic mixtape status. If you’re a fan of music, you can literally just let the game’s set list play because it’s shaping up to be that good.
I just hope Genius Products LLC., QD3 and Numark are prepared for what I think will be a steep climb. It’ll be a challenge indeed to make this the next music genre sensation.
Source: http://www.unscripted360.com/2009/06/15/scratch-the-ultimate-dj-itchin-for-a-scratch/
Scratch: The Ultimate DJ – Controller and Game Looking Good
I have to start this post by obviously mentioning that Scratch: The Ultimate DJ is going to be going head to head against Activisions upcoming title in the same genre, DJ Hero.
Now, we have seen images and some short video of DJ Hero, but in this video Numark shows off their controller for Scratch: The Ultimate DJ and it is looking pretty damn solid and well thought out.
Video: http://www.gametrailers.com/player/51495.html
Numark have been making actual rigs for decades, so a lot of expertise has gone into this controller, and from the look of the controller and the look of the game, I think that DJ Hero may have a slight problem on it’s hands.
Wikky Wikky Wah.
Source: http://www.lazygamer.co.za/xbox-360/scratch-the-ultimate-dj-controller-and-game-looking-good-2