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Friday, March 16, 2012
The Star Opens Marquee Nightclub; Entertainment Rather Than Casino Focus - 15th March 2012
Profiles
The Star Echo Entertainment Casinos Clubs Sydney Australia
The Star tonight unvieled their latest weapon in the Australian casinos wars - all part of the battle for the entertainment dollar.
The pitch reads...
Internationally acclaimed nightclub operator Tao Group is set to bring a monumental change to Sydney's nightlife landscape with the opening of Marquee - The Star Sydney in late March 2012.
Marquee - The Star Sydney will be located on the entire top tier of The Star's new Pirrama Road harbourside entrance, commanding expansive views of Sydney Harbour and the city skyline. With nearly 20,000 square feet of floor space, the venue is designed to house three distinct spaces within the one venue to cater for different tastes and moods.
The Main Room will feature a 30-foot projection stage with an LED DJ booth and two dance floors.
In contrast, a stylish Library style room will offer an intimate lounge experience, accentuated by a working fireplace.
Venturing further into the venue, club-goers will come across the Boom Box, with a separate DJ, state-of-the-art sound system and outdoor patio. There is also a chill-out area with unparalleled views of the Sydney skyline and a unisex "bathroom lounge".
Furnished with dynamic and unique interiors, the venue will have a retail store and separate VIP entrance for quick entry from street level.
Perth based band Gyroscope played:
Pain
1981
Beware
Wolf
Still Taste Blood
Dream BS Scream
Doctor Doctor
Live Without You
Sotpik
Midnight Express
Baby
Weapon
Enemy Friend
These Days
Safe Forever
Take This For Granted
Fast Girl
Snakeskin
We would like to say a big thank you to everyone who made today a success, and we'll see you back at The Star again soon.
Websites
Marquee Sydney
The Star
Marquee
Echo Entertainment
Gyroscope
Eva Rinaldi Photography Flickr
Eva Rinaldi Photography
Music News Australia
Media Man News
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Media Man
Media Man News
Media Man Entertainment
Casino News Media
Global Gaming Directory
The Star Echo Entertainment Casinos Clubs Sydney Australia
The Star tonight unvieled their latest weapon in the Australian casinos wars - all part of the battle for the entertainment dollar.
The pitch reads...
Internationally acclaimed nightclub operator Tao Group is set to bring a monumental change to Sydney's nightlife landscape with the opening of Marquee - The Star Sydney in late March 2012.
Marquee - The Star Sydney will be located on the entire top tier of The Star's new Pirrama Road harbourside entrance, commanding expansive views of Sydney Harbour and the city skyline. With nearly 20,000 square feet of floor space, the venue is designed to house three distinct spaces within the one venue to cater for different tastes and moods.
The Main Room will feature a 30-foot projection stage with an LED DJ booth and two dance floors.
In contrast, a stylish Library style room will offer an intimate lounge experience, accentuated by a working fireplace.
Venturing further into the venue, club-goers will come across the Boom Box, with a separate DJ, state-of-the-art sound system and outdoor patio. There is also a chill-out area with unparalleled views of the Sydney skyline and a unisex "bathroom lounge".
Furnished with dynamic and unique interiors, the venue will have a retail store and separate VIP entrance for quick entry from street level.
Perth based band Gyroscope played:
Pain
1981
Beware
Wolf
Still Taste Blood
Dream BS Scream
Doctor Doctor
Live Without You
Sotpik
Midnight Express
Baby
Weapon
Enemy Friend
These Days
Safe Forever
Take This For Granted
Fast Girl
Snakeskin
We would like to say a big thank you to everyone who made today a success, and we'll see you back at The Star again soon.
Websites
Marquee Sydney
The Star
Marquee
Echo Entertainment
Gyroscope
Eva Rinaldi Photography Flickr
Eva Rinaldi Photography
Music News Australia
Media Man News
Website Network
Media Man Int
Media Man
Media Man News
Media Man Entertainment
Casino News Media
Global Gaming Directory
Wednesday, March 14, 2012
Branson backs budding entrepreneurs - 14th March 2012
Profiles
Richard Branson Virgin Enterprises Limited Entrepreneurs Britain
Richard Branson and Greg Tingle
Sir Richard Branson has vowed to help budding entrepreneurs "create lots of jobs and lots of great companies" for Britain.
The Virgin magnate was launching the Global Entrepreneurship Congress in Liverpool, which aims to be the "largest gathering of enterprise champions" in the world.
Sir Richard arrived in the city waving from the window of the driver's cab of a specially-chartered Virgin Trains service from London.
Also on board were his daughter Holly, new son-in-law Freddie Andrews and 250 aspiring captains of industry who will take part in the congress.
Sir Richard said: "We've come on the entrepreneurship express. There are lots of budding entrepreneurs who will be starting the businesses of the future and it is great to be coming to the congress today, where we'll be sharing lots of ideas and seeing how we can create lots of jobs and lots of great companies in the future."
Around 3,500 people are expected to attend the week-long congress, which is hosted by Liverpool Vision, the city's economic development company, and the Kauffman Foundation, the world's largest foundation dedicated to entrepreneurship.
"A vibrant entrepreneurial sector is the backbone of any healthy economy," Sir Richard said. "We must do all we can to help the companies of the future take off - as this will provide both jobs and export opportunities for the UK. Being an entrepreneur can sometimes be challenging but the rewards and sense of achievement are something that many young people should aim for.
"They have the drive and determination. It is the role of business and successful entrepreneurs to provide essential support and mentorship to help these young people realise their ambition and potential. They are the future job creators and should be given every opportunity to succeed."
Other business leaders at the Congress include former Tesco boss Sir Terry Leahy, Lastminute.com founder Martha Lane Fox and former deputy prime minister Lord Heseltine, founder of the Haymarket publishing group.
The event takes place at Liverpool's BT Convention Centre. (Credit: The Press Association)
Website Network
Media Man International
Media Man
Media Man Entertainment
Media Man News
Richard Branson Virgin Enterprises Limited Entrepreneurs Britain
Richard Branson and Greg Tingle
Sir Richard Branson has vowed to help budding entrepreneurs "create lots of jobs and lots of great companies" for Britain.
The Virgin magnate was launching the Global Entrepreneurship Congress in Liverpool, which aims to be the "largest gathering of enterprise champions" in the world.
Sir Richard arrived in the city waving from the window of the driver's cab of a specially-chartered Virgin Trains service from London.
Also on board were his daughter Holly, new son-in-law Freddie Andrews and 250 aspiring captains of industry who will take part in the congress.
Sir Richard said: "We've come on the entrepreneurship express. There are lots of budding entrepreneurs who will be starting the businesses of the future and it is great to be coming to the congress today, where we'll be sharing lots of ideas and seeing how we can create lots of jobs and lots of great companies in the future."
Around 3,500 people are expected to attend the week-long congress, which is hosted by Liverpool Vision, the city's economic development company, and the Kauffman Foundation, the world's largest foundation dedicated to entrepreneurship.
"A vibrant entrepreneurial sector is the backbone of any healthy economy," Sir Richard said. "We must do all we can to help the companies of the future take off - as this will provide both jobs and export opportunities for the UK. Being an entrepreneur can sometimes be challenging but the rewards and sense of achievement are something that many young people should aim for.
"They have the drive and determination. It is the role of business and successful entrepreneurs to provide essential support and mentorship to help these young people realise their ambition and potential. They are the future job creators and should be given every opportunity to succeed."
Other business leaders at the Congress include former Tesco boss Sir Terry Leahy, Lastminute.com founder Martha Lane Fox and former deputy prime minister Lord Heseltine, founder of the Haymarket publishing group.
The event takes place at Liverpool's BT Convention Centre. (Credit: The Press Association)
Website Network
Media Man International
Media Man
Media Man Entertainment
Media Man News
Tuesday, March 13, 2012
Media Man - Casino News Media News Update: Movies, Gaming, Casinos, Politics, Australia, Hollywood...
News
News Entertainment News Casino News Poker News
Hollywood And AussieWood Celebrity News, Wrestling, WWE Et Al - 13th March 2012
Marvel Entertainment and Marvel Studios news: Avengers, Amazing Spider-Man, Captain America - movies, games and auction
Bwin.Party Joins Nevada's Online Poker Licensing Parade
WPT Bay 101 Shooting Stars Day Two
PartyPoker And PartyCasino Owner bwin.party Digital Entertainment Plans Return to US Market
Sale of Ongame to Shuffle Master
Hollywood And AussieWood Movie And Celebrity News
'Ocean's Eleven' voted greatest ever remake, Hollywood Celebrity News, Pro Wrestling Connection
PartyCasino.com Wins Media Man Online Casino Award
Sylvester Stallone, Bruce Willis arm wrestle
Wrestling Legend "Rowdy" Roddy Piper In Fancypants Movie
Four Canadians indicted on US gambling charges; Online Casino Royale or Ocean's Eleven?
The Four Horsemen Including Ric Flair To Be Inducted Into WWE Hall Of Fame 2012; Jim Ross Tweets
Dwayne "The Rock" Johnson Continues His Journey Towards WrestleMania Match With John Cena
What the Media has said about wrestling over the years
Website Network
Media Man Int
Media Man
Media Man Entertainment
Casino News Media
Global Gaming Directory
News Entertainment News Casino News Poker News
Hollywood And AussieWood Celebrity News, Wrestling, WWE Et Al - 13th March 2012
Marvel Entertainment and Marvel Studios news: Avengers, Amazing Spider-Man, Captain America - movies, games and auction
Bwin.Party Joins Nevada's Online Poker Licensing Parade
WPT Bay 101 Shooting Stars Day Two
PartyPoker And PartyCasino Owner bwin.party Digital Entertainment Plans Return to US Market
Sale of Ongame to Shuffle Master
Hollywood And AussieWood Movie And Celebrity News
'Ocean's Eleven' voted greatest ever remake, Hollywood Celebrity News, Pro Wrestling Connection
PartyCasino.com Wins Media Man Online Casino Award
Sylvester Stallone, Bruce Willis arm wrestle
Wrestling Legend "Rowdy" Roddy Piper In Fancypants Movie
Four Canadians indicted on US gambling charges; Online Casino Royale or Ocean's Eleven?
The Four Horsemen Including Ric Flair To Be Inducted Into WWE Hall Of Fame 2012; Jim Ross Tweets
Dwayne "The Rock" Johnson Continues His Journey Towards WrestleMania Match With John Cena
What the Media has said about wrestling over the years
Website Network
Media Man Int
Media Man
Media Man Entertainment
Casino News Media
Global Gaming Directory
PartyPoker And PartyCasino Owner bwin.party Digital Entertainment Plans Return to US Market
Websites
PartyCasino.com PartyPoker.com
Profiles
Bwin.Party Digital Entertainment PartyCasino.com PartyPoker.com World Poker Tour Casinos United States World Casino Directory Global Gaming Directory
PartyPoker And PartyCasino Owner bwin.party Digital Entertainment Plans Return to US Market...
Online gambling firm bwin.party are set to return to the US poker market after almost six years away following their application for a gaming licence with the Nevada Gaming Control Board.
The Gibraltar-based company – which owns online poker room PartyPoker – have submitted their application to add their name to an ever-growing list of firms showing massive interest in taking advantage of the expected legalisation of online poker in the USA.
Bwin.Party Digital Entertainment plc was formed in March last year following the merger of Bwin Interactive Entertainment AG and PartyGaming plc to create the world’s largest publicly traded online gambling company that is now listed on the London Stock Exchange.
PartyGaming Left US Market in 2006
This merger came almost five years after PartyGaming took the decision to suspend all real-money games in the USA, before then exiting the market three days after the US government’s passing of the Unlawful Internet Gaming Enforcement Act (UIGEA) back on September 29, 2006.
In April of 2009, PartyGaming decided to reach a settlement with the US Department of Justice (DoJ) in which they agreed to pay a $105 million penalty over four years as part of a non-prosecution agreement for providing online gambling to American customers before the UIGEA was passed.
As an element of the agreement, PartyGaming put its name to a “statement of facts” in which it admitted that, before October of 2006, they had aimed to attract American citizens that resulted in the processing of transactions “contrary to certain US laws”.
This deal ensured that PartyGaming were not prosecuted and also made sure that they could return to the US market if – and when – new laws are put in place to regulate all internet gambling in the North American nation.
Partnership Provided Opportunity to Return
Bwin’s merger with PartyGaming last year also paved the way for the new company to partner with Nevada-based gaming firms Boyd Gaming and MGM Resorts International late last year in what was considered an “anticipatory” move ahead of the hoped-for legalisation of online gambling in the States.
The venture has resulted in bwin.party owning 65% of the company as they provide and maintain the software for both gaming businesses, while MGM – which also runs hotels – holds 25% and Boyd Gaming just 10%.
Boyd Gaming and MGM have previously applied for licences with the Nevada Gaming Control Board to operate as online poker providers.
PartyPoker Still World’s Second Biggest Poker Room
PartyPoker had been the world’s biggest internet poker brand – if based on their number of players and cash game revenue – before pulling out of the US market, although it still holds the position as the second biggest behind PokerStars.
While Jim Ryan, bwin.party’s chief operating officer, recently told media that the joint venture is unlikely to see them regain the 50% share PartyPoker enjoyed before the introduction of the UIGEA, he does expect to see a “very meaningful liquidity pool” in what will be a highly competitive market.
Stay tuned as well follow up the story.
6 March 2012
bwin.party digital entertainment plc
(‘bwin.party’ or the ‘Company’)
Sale of Ongame to Shuffle Master
Highlights:
Sale of Ongame, a leading B2B online poker network, to Shuffle Master for up to €29.5 million on a cash-free and debt-free basis
Initial consideration of €19.5 million payable in cash on completion, subject to a post-completion working capital adjustment
Further consideration of up to €10.0 million payable in cash in the event that regulated online poker commences in the United States on either a federal or intra-state basis within five years from completion
Completion is subject to the normal conditions for a transaction of this type, including regulatory approvals and is expected to complete in the summer of 2012
bwin.party today announces that it has agreed to sell Ongame, its business-to-business (‘B2B’) online poker network, to Shuffle Master, Inc (‘Shuffle Master’) for a total cash consideration of up to €29.5 million. The agreement is consistent with the Group’s stated strategy and follows its announced intention to sell Ongame on 30 June 2011.
Contingent consideration will become payable by Shuffle Master in the event that online poker becomes regulated in the United States within five years of completion. The amount payable in these circumstances will depend upon the timing of the commencement of legalised online gaming in the US. The transaction is subject to the normal terms and conditions for a transaction of this type as well as certain regulatory approvals and is expected to complete during the summer of 2012 with a back-stop date of December 2012. The management of Ongame will transfer with the business and the net sale proceeds will be used for general corporate purposes.
Information on Ongame
Ongame Network Ltd (‘Ongame’) is one of the world’s largest B2B poker providers. The global network includes more than 25 of the e-gaming industry’s strongest brands and operators. Ongame also operates regional networks in France and Italy. The company offers both operators and their players a wide variety of cash games and tournaments to choose from. Further information about Ongame can be found at www.ongame.com.
For the six months to 31 December 2011, the unaudited adjusted EBITDA[1] of Ongame was €0.04 million and as at 30 June 2011 Ongame had unaudited gross assets of €26.6 million.
Commenting on today’s announcement, Jim Ryan and Norbert Teufelberger, the Co-CEOs of bwin.party, said:
“The sale of Ongame represents a further significant step in our process of integrating bwin and PartyGaming and moving to a single technology platform. We believe Shuffle Master will be an excellent home for Ongame to maximise its future potential.”
Gavin Isaacs, Chief Executive Officer of Shuffle Master, said:
“Ongame is one of the world’s leading online poker networks with a state-of-the-art technology platform. It is an excellent strategic fit with Shuffle Master and our interactive gaming business. Following completion, we will focus on building the existing business in Europe as well as looking for growth opportunities in the rest of the world.”
bwin.party was advised by McQueen Limited.
Sale of Ongame to Shuffle Master...
About bwin.party
bwin.party digital entertainment plc (LSE: BPTY) is the world’s largest listed online gaming company. The Company was formed from the merger of bwin Interactive Entertainment AG and PartyGaming Plc on 31 March 2011. Incorporated, licensed and regulated in Gibraltar, the Group also has online poker licences in France and Italy. With offices in Europe, India, Israel and the US the Group generated total pro forma revenue of €814.0m (H1 2011: €398.0m) and pro forma Clean EBITDA of €193.2m in 2010 (H1 2011: €81.9m). bwin.party operates one of the world’s largest online poker networks, www.PartyPoker.com and also owns the World Poker Tour. The Group’s scale, proprietary poker software, online gaming platform and strong portfolio of games collectively differentiates its customer offer from those of its competitors. bwin.party is a constituent member of the FTSE4Good Index Series, which identifies companies that meet globally recognised corporate responsibility standards.
About Shuffle Master
Shuffle Master, Inc. is a leading global gaming supplier committed to making gaming more fun for players and more profitable for operators through product innovation, and superior quality and service. The Company operates in legalized gaming markets across the globe and provides state-of-the-art, value-add products in five distinct categories: Utility products, which include automatic card shufflers and roulette chip sorters; Proprietary Table Games, which includes live games, side bets and progressives; Electronic Table Systems, which include various e-Table game platforms; Electronic Gaming Machines, which include video slot machines; and newly introduced iGaming, which features online versions of Shuffle Master’s table games, social gaming, and mobile applications. The Company is included in the S&P Smallcap 600 Index.
Website Network
Media Man Int
Media Man
Media Man Entertainment
Casino News Media
Global Gaming Directory
PartyCasino.com PartyPoker.com
Profiles
Bwin.Party Digital Entertainment PartyCasino.com PartyPoker.com World Poker Tour Casinos United States World Casino Directory Global Gaming Directory
PartyPoker And PartyCasino Owner bwin.party Digital Entertainment Plans Return to US Market...
Online gambling firm bwin.party are set to return to the US poker market after almost six years away following their application for a gaming licence with the Nevada Gaming Control Board.
The Gibraltar-based company – which owns online poker room PartyPoker – have submitted their application to add their name to an ever-growing list of firms showing massive interest in taking advantage of the expected legalisation of online poker in the USA.
Bwin.Party Digital Entertainment plc was formed in March last year following the merger of Bwin Interactive Entertainment AG and PartyGaming plc to create the world’s largest publicly traded online gambling company that is now listed on the London Stock Exchange.
PartyGaming Left US Market in 2006
This merger came almost five years after PartyGaming took the decision to suspend all real-money games in the USA, before then exiting the market three days after the US government’s passing of the Unlawful Internet Gaming Enforcement Act (UIGEA) back on September 29, 2006.
In April of 2009, PartyGaming decided to reach a settlement with the US Department of Justice (DoJ) in which they agreed to pay a $105 million penalty over four years as part of a non-prosecution agreement for providing online gambling to American customers before the UIGEA was passed.
As an element of the agreement, PartyGaming put its name to a “statement of facts” in which it admitted that, before October of 2006, they had aimed to attract American citizens that resulted in the processing of transactions “contrary to certain US laws”.
This deal ensured that PartyGaming were not prosecuted and also made sure that they could return to the US market if – and when – new laws are put in place to regulate all internet gambling in the North American nation.
Partnership Provided Opportunity to Return
Bwin’s merger with PartyGaming last year also paved the way for the new company to partner with Nevada-based gaming firms Boyd Gaming and MGM Resorts International late last year in what was considered an “anticipatory” move ahead of the hoped-for legalisation of online gambling in the States.
The venture has resulted in bwin.party owning 65% of the company as they provide and maintain the software for both gaming businesses, while MGM – which also runs hotels – holds 25% and Boyd Gaming just 10%.
Boyd Gaming and MGM have previously applied for licences with the Nevada Gaming Control Board to operate as online poker providers.
PartyPoker Still World’s Second Biggest Poker Room
PartyPoker had been the world’s biggest internet poker brand – if based on their number of players and cash game revenue – before pulling out of the US market, although it still holds the position as the second biggest behind PokerStars.
While Jim Ryan, bwin.party’s chief operating officer, recently told media that the joint venture is unlikely to see them regain the 50% share PartyPoker enjoyed before the introduction of the UIGEA, he does expect to see a “very meaningful liquidity pool” in what will be a highly competitive market.
Stay tuned as well follow up the story.
6 March 2012
bwin.party digital entertainment plc
(‘bwin.party’ or the ‘Company’)
Sale of Ongame to Shuffle Master
Highlights:
Sale of Ongame, a leading B2B online poker network, to Shuffle Master for up to €29.5 million on a cash-free and debt-free basis
Initial consideration of €19.5 million payable in cash on completion, subject to a post-completion working capital adjustment
Further consideration of up to €10.0 million payable in cash in the event that regulated online poker commences in the United States on either a federal or intra-state basis within five years from completion
Completion is subject to the normal conditions for a transaction of this type, including regulatory approvals and is expected to complete in the summer of 2012
bwin.party today announces that it has agreed to sell Ongame, its business-to-business (‘B2B’) online poker network, to Shuffle Master, Inc (‘Shuffle Master’) for a total cash consideration of up to €29.5 million. The agreement is consistent with the Group’s stated strategy and follows its announced intention to sell Ongame on 30 June 2011.
Contingent consideration will become payable by Shuffle Master in the event that online poker becomes regulated in the United States within five years of completion. The amount payable in these circumstances will depend upon the timing of the commencement of legalised online gaming in the US. The transaction is subject to the normal terms and conditions for a transaction of this type as well as certain regulatory approvals and is expected to complete during the summer of 2012 with a back-stop date of December 2012. The management of Ongame will transfer with the business and the net sale proceeds will be used for general corporate purposes.
Information on Ongame
Ongame Network Ltd (‘Ongame’) is one of the world’s largest B2B poker providers. The global network includes more than 25 of the e-gaming industry’s strongest brands and operators. Ongame also operates regional networks in France and Italy. The company offers both operators and their players a wide variety of cash games and tournaments to choose from. Further information about Ongame can be found at www.ongame.com.
For the six months to 31 December 2011, the unaudited adjusted EBITDA[1] of Ongame was €0.04 million and as at 30 June 2011 Ongame had unaudited gross assets of €26.6 million.
Commenting on today’s announcement, Jim Ryan and Norbert Teufelberger, the Co-CEOs of bwin.party, said:
“The sale of Ongame represents a further significant step in our process of integrating bwin and PartyGaming and moving to a single technology platform. We believe Shuffle Master will be an excellent home for Ongame to maximise its future potential.”
Gavin Isaacs, Chief Executive Officer of Shuffle Master, said:
“Ongame is one of the world’s leading online poker networks with a state-of-the-art technology platform. It is an excellent strategic fit with Shuffle Master and our interactive gaming business. Following completion, we will focus on building the existing business in Europe as well as looking for growth opportunities in the rest of the world.”
bwin.party was advised by McQueen Limited.
Sale of Ongame to Shuffle Master...
About bwin.party
bwin.party digital entertainment plc (LSE: BPTY) is the world’s largest listed online gaming company. The Company was formed from the merger of bwin Interactive Entertainment AG and PartyGaming Plc on 31 March 2011. Incorporated, licensed and regulated in Gibraltar, the Group also has online poker licences in France and Italy. With offices in Europe, India, Israel and the US the Group generated total pro forma revenue of €814.0m (H1 2011: €398.0m) and pro forma Clean EBITDA of €193.2m in 2010 (H1 2011: €81.9m). bwin.party operates one of the world’s largest online poker networks, www.PartyPoker.com and also owns the World Poker Tour. The Group’s scale, proprietary poker software, online gaming platform and strong portfolio of games collectively differentiates its customer offer from those of its competitors. bwin.party is a constituent member of the FTSE4Good Index Series, which identifies companies that meet globally recognised corporate responsibility standards.
About Shuffle Master
Shuffle Master, Inc. is a leading global gaming supplier committed to making gaming more fun for players and more profitable for operators through product innovation, and superior quality and service. The Company operates in legalized gaming markets across the globe and provides state-of-the-art, value-add products in five distinct categories: Utility products, which include automatic card shufflers and roulette chip sorters; Proprietary Table Games, which includes live games, side bets and progressives; Electronic Table Systems, which include various e-Table game platforms; Electronic Gaming Machines, which include video slot machines; and newly introduced iGaming, which features online versions of Shuffle Master’s table games, social gaming, and mobile applications. The Company is included in the S&P Smallcap 600 Index.
Website Network
Media Man Int
Media Man
Media Man Entertainment
Casino News Media
Global Gaming Directory
Hollywood And AussieWood Movie And Celebrity News, by Greg Tingle - 12th March 2012
Profiles
bwin.party Digital Entertainment George Clooney Movies Hollywood Casinos Wrestling WWE Australia Media Man
Hollywood and AussieWood fans, and all you pro wrestling aka sports entertainment fans out there. It's that time of the week again. Here's your latest fix of entertainment and celebrity news Aussie style, direct from the Media Man agency...
Bwin.Party Says "That's Entertainment"; Movies And Games Collide Online...
Gaming giant bwin.party digital entertainment has just released a bush tucker bag of new online games via its PartyCasino brand. Check out Knight Rider and more Hollywood blockbusters now, and check out Media Man for all the new game reviews. Not surprisingly old blue eyes, Frank Sinatra, has maintained his popularity with young and old with the Sinatra slot. You can even play for free or for money in USA, AUD, CAN or EURO. Poker fans will also be in luck. Not into games? No problem - check out the movie reviews instead.
Top 10 Hollywood Movie Remakes...
Top 10 Best Remakes...
1. Ocean’s Eleven (2001)
2. The Mummy (1999)
3. King Kong (2005)
4. The Italian Job (2003)
5. Cape Fear (1991)
6. The Parent Trap (1998)
7. Gone in 60 Seconds (2000)
8. Dawn of the Dead (2004)
9. Scarface (1983)
10. Alfie (2004)
Top 10 Worst Remakes
1. Arthur (2011)
2. The Wicker Man (2006)
3. Fame (2009)
4. The Day the Earth Stood Still (2008)
5. Clash of the Titans (2010)
6. Planet of the Apes (2001)
7. Piranha 3-D (2010)
8. House of Wax (2005)
9. Freaky Friday (2003)
10. The Texas Chainsaw Massacre (2003)
Hollywood Stars, Paris Hilton Tipped To Party At The Star In Sin City Sydney...
The Aussie casino wars, and the war for the entertainment dollar is alive and well. It's Echo Entertainment - The Star VS Crown Limited - Crown Melbourne and friends...
Give it a month or so... time for The Star casino scandals to cool off a bit more, and a bush tucker bag of Hollywood movie stars and celebs galore will be partying hard at its new nightclub, Marquee.
We hear that the VIP guests including a few casino whales are due to hit the party on March 30.
Dutch producer and DJ Afrojack - real name Nick van de Wall, is confirmed, and now we hear that hunt is on for his babe Paris Hilton (that was quite likely the original sin idea. Get the woman via the man. Talk about bait for fish and whales. Will it lure the right school of fish or not? time will tell, but the odds of success are there with Paris Hilton and friends. The heiress milked the rumours days ago via Twitter with: "Congrats @NoahTepperberg on@MarqueeSydney! @DJAfrojack is gonna kill it at the opening party down there! I love #Australia!"
We all know about the loss of former Star embattled boss Sid Vaikunta and The Star will be looking to get PR back to positive, but will the Australian press let it be?
Marquee is a joint venture with Tao Group, which is behind many of America's biggest nightclubs, including Tao in Las Vegas and New York, and Marquee Nightclub and Dayclub in Vegas.
In Vegas Marquee is able to draw names such as Rihanna, Beyonce, Chris Martin and Gwyneth Paltrow, so let's wish them well shall we.
James Bond studio makes £3.9m loss...
Pinewood Shepperton studios slumped to a £3.9m loss in 2011 after it failed in an attempt to build replicas of Paris, New York and Amsterdam on green belt land.
The studios enjoyed record revenues of £50.7m in 2011, up by 17 per cent after it filmed scenes for movies such as The Hobbit and the next James Bond film, Skyfall. But it took an exceptional charge of £7.1m reflecting five years of costs for its "Project Pinewood" application, which officials turned down in January. This pushed the company, which is majority owned by the property group Peel Holdings, £3.9m into the red, after profits of £5.8m the previous year.
Project Pinewood would have seen the creation of a "purpose-built" film set with 1,400 permanent homes inside the streetscape buildings at Iver Heath, Buckinghamshire. The project would have cost £200m and created almost 1,000 jobs in the next 10 years, with 420 affordable homes offered inside the film sets. But it was fiercely resisted by campaigners.
The Pinewood and Shepperton studios have been home to more than 1,500 films in the last 75 years, while the two studios and the company's Teddington site have hosted more than 600 television shows.
Russell Crowe in Talks to Join Darren Aronofsky’s ‘Noah’...
Russell Crowe has expressed interest in taking on the title role of director Darren Aronofsky‘s new project, “Noah”.
Based on the biblical tale of Noah’s Ark, the movie will be Aronofsky’s first since the critically acclaimed “Black Swan”. While following some of the classic plot points of the original tale, “Noah” will approach the story from a new perspective. This modern Noah will be played as a man who has a deep love for earth and it’s inhabitants, but who is heartbroken over the way humans have taken advantage of the planet.
When asked about the film’s religious connotations, Aronofsky responded, "I don’t think it’s a very religious story. I think it’s a great fable that’s part of so many different religions and spiritual practices. I just think it’s a great story that’s never been on film. I want to make a big event film, and I think it can be that."
The director, who arrived on to the scene with 1998′s “Pi”, has made it clear from the start that he wanted Crowe on board. When the “Gladiator” star found out he was being eyed for the film, he coyly tweeted to his fans, “And I’m eyeing him right back…whole lot of eyeing."
Other names that were thrown around for the role included Liam Neeson, Christian Bale, and Michael Fassbender. The project received big buzz even before Crowe’s involvement, after it was announced that its budget would be a substantial $130 million.
Noah is due to start filming this July and will hit the cinema in 2013.
Mel Gibson completes anger management...
Australian Mel Gibson has completed a course of court-ordered anger management therapy as part of his probation.
The movie star pleaded no contest to a misdemeanor battery charge, relating to an alleged attack on ex-girlfriend Oksana Grigorieva in 2010, and was sentenced to three years’ probation, 16 hours of community service and 52 weeks of counseling to curb his infamous temper.
He fulfilled the community service requirements last year and has continued to impress Los Angeles Superior Court Judge Stephanie Sautner with his efforts by completing additional therapy sessions too.
Popular entertainment news website TMZ has reported the actor will finally be off the hook if he stays out of trouble for two more years.
Gibson is understood to be looking to release his movie 'Get The Gringo' via Icon Film Distribution Australia. Icon is planning a traditional theatrical release despite North American plans to launch an exclusive video-on-demand (VOD) offer.
The US deal will result in the action-thriller being distributed by 20th Century Fox Home Entertainment from May 1 on DirecTV, which will charge $10.99 per home viewing, according to Deadline.com. A wider release on Blu-ray, VOD, and digital download will be rolled out after one month.
In a statement, Fox Home Entertainment president Mike Dunn said: "As digital distribution evolves, we are constantly looking at new ways to bring the consumer greater access than ever before to our movies. Reaching nearly 20 million households on the DirecTV premium platform offers us an opportunity to explore innovative approaches like this one for Get The Gringo."
Icon Film Distribution is set to release the film in Australia on May 12.
Wrestling Legend "Rowdy" Roddy Piper In Fancypants Movie...
Fancypants is a 2011 film directed by Joshua Russell and starring Patrick Gleason, Roddy Piper, and Robert Carradine. Featuring Nick Turturro, Richard Kind, and introducing Jackson Dunn.
It is a comedy/drama about a professional wrestler who is afraid of conflict in real life. He is nearing the end of his career and finds out he has one fan left in an 8-year old boy, who hides a secret that will change Leo's life forever. The film was shot entirely on location in Chicago.
The film won Best Feature at the 2011 Sunscreen Film Festival in St. Petersburg, Florida, and was an official selection at the 2011 Seattle True Independent Film Festival.
Roddy Piper is also rumoured to be one of the house-mates in upcoming WWE reality TV show, 'Legends House'.
The Four Horsemen Including Ric Flair To Be Inducted Into WWE Hall Of Fame 2012; Jim Ross Tweets ...
Last week...Ross on Ric Flair’s Birthday: Happy Birthday to Ric Flair. Naitch called me this past week to catch up. He’s got a great opportunity with Coca Cola’s energy drink along with his state lottery work. I went on You Tube and checked out Ric’s TV commercials for the lotteries he promotes and they were hilarious.
Some of my fondest memories in the business involve Ric Flair and I’m so blessed to have been able to broadcast not only many Ric Flair bout but @ShawnMichaels bouts over the years, too as they are widely considered the two, best, all around pro wrestlers ever. That’s a debate that will rage on until the end of time but no one can intelligently say that Naitch and HBK aren’t on an abbreviated list of the best ever.
Wrestling Legend Hulk Hogan In Sex Tape With Woman Not Ex-Wife Or Current Wife Jennifer McDaniel...
A sex tape featuring Hulk Hogan has reportedly been shopped to porn producers Vivid Entertainment.
The company's founder Steve Hirsch told website TMZ that they were recently shown intimate footage of the wrestler, actor and TV personality by a third party.
It is unclear when the alleged tape was filmed, as the woman seen in bed with 58-year-old Hogan is said to be neither his ex-wife Linda - to whom he was married for 23 years and is currently suing for defamation - or new spouse Jennifer McDaniel, 35.
In the footage Hogan is understood to say "I started to work out again" while taking off his shirt.
Hogan told TMZ the tape was "secretly filmed" without his permission and called it was an "outrageous invasion of privacy."
It is not yet known whether Vivid or any other parties have attempted to purchase the tape.
Hulk Hogan rocketed to fame in the mid-80s because of his charisma and unique look, and a lot of strong pushing from top notch promoters who knew Hogan was a money maker and a future legend.
In 2005, he and his family appeared in the VH1 reality series "Hogan Knows Best." While the show was still on the air, Linda Hogan filed for divorce from Hogan after it was alleged he had an affair.
In 2010, Hogan married McDaniel, who is widely noted to look similar to his daughter, Brooke.
Media Man wishes Hulk Hogan and his family well with everything, and is hopefully that Hogan will one day return to Vince McMahon's WWE sports entertainment company.
Hogan is in the WWE Hall of Fame and is one of the most famous wrestlers of all time.
WWE Smackdown Did Mohegan Sun Arena In Land Based Casino...
No, the WWE doesn't own a casino anymore, but from time to time it does perform in the gaming and entertainment complexes.
The WWE Smackdown TV cameras returned to Mohegan Sun Arena on Tuesday, May 22 at 7 p.m and it was all broadcast on Australian TV via FOX on Foxtel.
The Main Event was Randy Orton (son of Cowboy Bon Orton) VS Daniel Bryan VS Sheamus aka "The Great White) in a "Triple Threat Match" for the World Heavyweight championship belt.
Other WWE Superstars included The Big Show, Mark Henry, Cody Rhodes, Ted Dibiase, Santino Marella and the Diva's (wrestling babes).
Fans, don't forget WWE WrestleMania 28 is just around the corner, and the sports entertainment company also has an Australian tour locked down for August and September of 2012.
Impact Wrestling (formally known as TNA Wrestling), is also set to tour New Zealand (and likely Australia) in about 6 or 12 months, and wrestling legend Jeff Jarrett recently thanked TV host Rove McManus in a very public way via Twitter, so where there's smoke, there's usually fire - even in professional wrestling.
WWE Legends House Will Get At Least One Non Wrestler Celebrity...
In the only confirmed WWE Network show, Legends’ House, looks like it will feature some celebrity involvement as legendary actor Adam West, famous for his roles as Batman and, more recently, lending his voice as “Mayor Adam West” on Family Guy, was pictured with the cast of Legends’ House, appearing with “Rowdy” Roddy Piper, “Mean” Gene Okerlund, “Hacksaw” Jim Duggan, Howard Finkel, Hillbilly Jim, Tony Atlas, Pat Patterson, and Jimmy Hart. The photo also shows Pussycat Dolls singer, Ashley Roberts, who is slated to be hosting the show, while Adam West will be a guest star on one of the episodes. Comedian Jeff Dye from the MTV show, Money from Strangers, also filmed some footage for the show, but his role is unknown. The Media Man agency tips high ratings will follow the show, but some other commentators are not quite as sure. Don't change your dial wrestling fans. This will be reality TV like never before, and tons of laughs are in store for those of you who stick with it. For a taste, check out the WWE YouTube channel where many other WWE shows are being broadcast, such as the famous 'Long Island Story' by Zack Ryder.
The Rock 'hyped' to star in NZ-shot movie...
Hollywood actor Dwayne 'The Rock' Johnson is "hyped" about starring in a blockbuster to be filmed in New Zealand later this year.
The former pro wrestler is heading downunder to star as Hercules in American film director Brett Ratner's upcoming epic by the same name.
Johnson told his 2,226,466 Twitter followers he is looking forward to the new action role.
"Hyped to become HERCULES and bring the mythology to life. #TilDeathOrGlory," he tweeted today.
The man mountain, standing at 6 feet 5 inches (195.58cm), spent a brief period of his childhood in Auckland with his mother's family.
He attended Richmond Road Primary School before returning to the United States with his parents.
Hercules is based on the 2008 Radical Publishing comic Hercules: The Thracian War, written by Steve Moore.
Variety Magazine says filming on the MGM flick is set to start in October.
Johnson has emerged as one of Hollywood's leading action stars with a string of films including Fast Five, G.I Joe: Retaliation and Faster.
'Road Warrior' Animal Says Sting Isn’t An Icon Unless He Passes Through WWE...
WWE Hall Of Famer Road Warrior Animal, who hosts Extreme Pro Wrestling Radio on 100.3 KFAN in Minneapolis, Minnesota, broadcast during a recent show that he doesn’t think Sting is a wrestling icon until he passes through WWE.
“Sting is not in the same league as guys like Triple H, Stone Cold, The Rock. Sting will never be considered a legend or icon until he lets his pride go and joins WWE. He needs to bury his personal issues and just get into the WWE. Sting has to come over to the WWE to be that guy, it’s a bigger stage. Impact is one thing, the WWE is a way bigger thing,” Animal said.
Animal also takes credit for Sting’s arrival to the National Wrestling Alliance in 1987.
“The NWA was looking for a spot for Sting and I said make him a brother in paint and then Sting joined us (Road Warriors) in our six-man matches,” he said.
On the best singles worker of all time, Animal said, “Easily, (Ric) Flair!”
The Rock Dwayne Johnson To Star In Pain and Gain (2013)
A pair of bodybuilders in Florida get caught up in an extortion ring and a kidnapping scheme that goes terribly wrong.
Director: Michael Bay
Writers: Scott Rosenberg (screenplay), Christopher Markus (screenplay)
Stars: Dwayne Johnson, Mark Wahlberg and Ed Harris
Johnson is also set to appear in the following:
Ciudad (pre-production)
2013 Snitch (post-production)
2012 G.I. Joe: Retaliation (post-production)
Arabian Nights (pre-production)
Sinbad (rumored)
2013 Empire State (pre-production)
2013 The Fast and the Furious 6 (pre-production)
Maybe WWE megastar John Cena is right when he implies Rocky has gone Hollywood. Aw well, its all entertainment.
Leonardo DiCaprio and Tobey Maguire Help Launch Mobli 2.0...
Keeping up-to-date with technology, Leonardo DiCaprio and Tobey Maguire were spotted at the Mobli 2.0 Launch Party in Austin, Texas on Saturday night (March 10).
Hiding most of his face, the "Inception" actor wore a Raiders hat with a dark suit jacket and jeans while posing for pictures alongside the "Spider-Man" star, who covered his slender frame in a blue button up and jacket.
With other stars such as Kevin Connelly Jared Leto and Lukas Haas alkso on hand, the blokes were there to help launch the updated app, Mobli, which gives iPhone users a fun way to share photos.
Maguire and DiCaprio believe in the company so much that they’ve invested in the new version of the app that many say will appeal to the hipster crowds. DiCaprio has reportedly shelled out nearly $4 million.
“Mobli [is] a brand new site where users can share moments and see the world through other people's eyes, is a real-time, visual social media platform, made up of subject-based channels such as people, places and topics.” a spokesperson for the mobile app company said.
During the event, DiCaprio who came in from a film shoot in New Orleans, munched on sushi while he spoke with the Mobli team.
Maguire posed for photos with fans. During the event Tobey shared his first social media post ever with the app.
The outing comes as Leo and Tobey will soon hit the big screen together - as they just wrapped up filming "The Great Gatsby" in Sydney, Australia - most of which took place at White Bay, Rozelle.
The movie follows Nick Carraway (Maguire), a Midwesterner living on Long Island who finds himself fascinated by the mysterious past and lavish lifestyle of his neighbor, Jay Gatsby (DiCaprio), while being drawn into Gatsby's circle and becoming a witness to obsession and tragedy.
Also starring Carey Mulligan, Joel Edgerton and Isla Fisher, the Baz Luhrmann directed motion picture is set to hit theaters on December 25, 2012.
James Packer donates $250,000 to Katter political party...
Australian based billionaire James Packer will not have any political influence over Katter's Australian Party, despite making a $250,000 donation, a spokesman says.
Party spokesman Scott Barrett told media Mr Packer's donation was the result of a long-standing friendship between the Packer family and party founder Bob Katter.
'James' grandfather was very good friends and business partners with Ted Theodore, who is one of Bob Katter's greatest heroes,' he said.
'There's a very good, close relationship between them (Mr Packer and Mr Katter) and they have very similar sort of goals.
'It's not surprising to see people like James Packer, who have a lot invested in Australia's future, to get behind us.
'We are the only party really that is getting behind Australia's future in backing Australian industry and Australian agriculture.'
Mr Packer's donation is one of the biggest recorded from a single donor in Queensland.
But Mr Barrett said that did not mean the casino mogul would be pulling the party's strings.
'The Packers have known Bob Katter for many years, so they know what they're getting,' he said.
'They know that he's not easily swayed.
'Just because he's contributed in this way doesn't mean he's going to pull the reins.
'Bob Katter knows what he wants and hasn't shifted on that for 40 years, so this isn't going to change the course of what were out to achieve.'
The party is holding its official campaign launch in Townsville on Sunday.
James Bond and Batman help rescue London developers...
Hollywood is helping London developers weather the financial crisis by turning empty offices into film sets, providing cash and publicity for landlords struggling to fill buildings with tenants because of the uncertain economic outlook.
In addition to films and television shows, a growing number of developers are also opening their doors to events like London Fashion Week or temporary retail sites for online companies such as Amazon, eBay and Google.
Others are planning to cash in on short-term demand from film crews seeking rooftops with panoramic views during the Olympic Games and celebrations marking the 60th anniversary of Queen Elizabeth II's coronation.
"There has been a sea change in the way landlords deal with empty space since the financial crisis," said Mark Hughes-Webb, managing director of SPACE-2 Consulting, which finds buildings for shoots and events. "They are more focused on cashflow as shareholders want to know they are working their assets." Developers have struggled to fill a series of striking new buildings meant to attract a wave of tenants: five skyscrapers in central London at varying stages of build have signed one office deal between them. The office vacancy rate in London's main financial district was 7 per cent in January, double where it stood at the end of 2007, its last low point, data from property consultancy CBRE show. SPACE-2's turnover has almost doubled over the same period.
SPOOKS AND SPOOFS
Two neighboring office blocks near the Bank of England in the main financial district have the equivalent of eleven soccer pitches of empty space between them.
One is Cannon Place and though reportedly close to signing its first tenants, Hughes-Webb said it was the venue for a new BBC spy drama, the type of shoot that can raise 1,500-7,000 pounds ($2,400-$11,100) per day. SPACE-2 takes about a quarter of any fee. "We choose the right events to keep Cannon Place in the public eye and associated with quality brands," said Mark Swetman, project director for Cannon Place developer Hines, saying good publicity was a bigger consideration than money.
The other block is the Walbrook building, which was used to shoot the latest film in the spoof spy series Johnny English. In the real world, it has been empty for two years and wealth manager Schroders pulled out of a move there in December.
Film shoots raise similar amounts to TV productions and it is not only buildings in the best locations that benefit. New Batman film The Dark Knight Rises includes a stunt sequence shot at an office block in the south London suburb of Croydon, with the area's dour 1960s architecture doubling up as Gotham City. Not all landlords are opening their doors. Western Europe's tallest skyscraper, the 1,016-feet Shard nearing completion next to London Bridge train station, turned down makers of the new James Bond film Skyfall, which has been filming near the Tower of London, even though it has not yet signed an office tenant.
"It is disruptive. We do not need those kind of gimmicks," a spokesman for developer Sellar Property Group said.
Conferences and events can raise even more. London Fashion Week netted landlord Land Securities more than 10,000 pounds when it set up one of the longest catwalks ever seen in London at the One New Change retail and office scheme next to St Paul's Cathedral this month.
One of the fastest growing sources of new revenue is internet retailers like eBay setting up temporary stores to build trust with shoppers wary of buying goods online. Landlords can fill space for between one week and six months and demand for space far outstrips supply, Hughes-Webb said.
Australian developer Lend Lease did 20 temporary lettings across three British shopping centers last year to plug gaps left by failing retailers, something that would not have occurred to developers five years ago, said Simon Donaldson, head of retail operations.
"Not only did it bring in several hundred thousand pounds extra in rent, it saved more than a million pounds in empty rate liabilities," he said. Owners of buildings with panoramic rooftop views plan to cash in on demand from camera crews looking for sites during this year's Olympic Games and Diamond Jubilee events. Fees will likely double from their norm to 300 pounds per hour, Hughes-Webb said. "It should not have taken the recession for developers to get more creative and work out there is cash to be made," he said, citing a small patch of roof on a building north of London Bridge that is frequently used to film crowds of commuters.
"That square meter is probably the most valuable piece of real estate in London."
Marvel Announces Two All-New, All-Ages Titles...
Check out The Avengers: Earth's Mightiest Heroes Adventures and Ultimate Spider-Man Adventures this April...
This April, Marvel is pleased to announce the launch of THE AVENGERS: EARTH'S MIGHTIEST HEROES ADVENTURES #1 and ULTIMATE SPIDER-MAN ADVENTURES #1, two all-new ongoing comic book titles for comic fans of all-ages! These titles connect with TV's highly anticipated animation destination, Marvel Universe on Disney XD, debuting Sunday, April 1, the only place to catch "Ultimate Spider-Man" and season two of "The Avengers: Earth’s Mightiest Heroes!" With two action-packed animated series and compelling comics, fans will have the chance to further immerse themselves in the adventures of Spider-Man, Captain America, Iron Man, Hulk, Thor, and the rest of the Avengers--including special guest stars!
“I couldn’t be more excited for Marvel Universe,” said Marvel Editor-in-Chief, Axel Alonso. “There is something special about the Avengers and Spider-Man that speaks to fans of all ages, and with the launch of Marvel Universe on Disney XD this April, what better way to connect the two experiences than these new ongoing series?”
In THE AVENGERS: EARTH'S MIGHTIEST HEROES ADVENTURES #1, the creative team of Chris Yost and Adam Dekraker, present not one, but TWO new action-packed Avengers stories to catch you up on the adventures of Earth’s Mightiest through the eyes of Agent Coulson.
Then in ULTIMATE SPIDER-MAN ADVENTURES #1, from Man Of Action ("Ben 10"), Dan Slott, Ty Templeton & Nuno Plati, Peter Parker must balance battling super villains and the drama of high school! But fear not True Believer, there is no menace too diabolical and no test too challenging for Spider-Man!
No fan of the Avengers or Spider-Man can miss out on these new action-packed series, sure to excite fans of all ages! So make sure you’re the first one in line this Spring to catch THE AVENGERS: EARTH'S MIGHTIEST HEROES ADVENTURES #1 and ULTIMATE SPIDER-MAN ADVENTURES #1 as the heroes make their big TV debut!
THE AVENGERS: EARTH’S MIGHTIEST HEROES ADVENTURES #1
Written by CHRIS YOST
Pencils by ADAM DEKRAKER
All Ages …$2.99
ON SALE THIS APRIL!
ULTIMATE SPIDER-MAN ADVENTURES #1
Written by MAN OF ACTION, DAN SLOTT & TY TEMPLETON
Art by NUNO PLATI
All Ages …$2.99
ON SALE THIS APRIL! (Credit: Marvel Entertainment)
Colleagues mourn comic book 'master' Moebius...
Moebius, the French comic book artist whose spectacular science fantasy-based work wrought its magic on Hollywood classics such as Alien and Tron, has died after a long illness aged 73.
Moebius - or Jean Henri Gaston Giraud - won a devoted following as far afield as Japan and the United States, countries working in radically different comic-book traditions.
"The whole profession is in shock, totally devastated, even if we knew that he was seriously ill," said Gilles Ratier, head of France's Association of Comic-Book Critics.
Colleagues paid tribute to the artist and writer generally acknowledged as having been one of the most daring and innovative in his field.
Giraud, who grew up drawing cowboys and indians, published his first drawings in 1957 and found fame with the western character Lieutenant Blueberry in 1963.
The lean, mean gunslinger was to become one of the most iconic figures in French comic-book history.
Giraud adopted the pseudonym Moebius for his illustrations in science fiction books and magazines.
But he also worked under other pseudonyms, including Gir, Giraud and Moeb.
But as Moebius, he said, he operated on a whole different level.
"When I am in the skin of Moebius, I draw in a state of trance, I try to escape from my 'ego'," he said in 2010.
'Master of realist drawing'
In 1975, Moebius was one of the co-founders of Metal Hurlant (Heavy Metal), a spectacular blend of visually arresting comic-book art that was heavily inspired by the counter-culture from across the Atlantic.
The magazine's blend of science fiction, epic fantasy and politically incorrect humour - which featured in a 1981 animated film of the same name - provided the perfect platform for Moebius' far-out creations.
As his reputation grew, he collaborated with US comic-books legend Stan Lee on an adventure featuring the enigmatic The Silver Surfer character.
And in another style entirely, he tackled the story of Icarus with Jiro Taniguchi, a master in the Japanese manga tradition.
His influence also spread into cinema, as he put his visual stamp on the first Alien film and the science fiction adventure Tron.
In 2010-11 France's Cartier Foundation for Contemporary Art acknowledged his stature, staging a major retrospective of his work.
Tributes were quick to come in as news of his death spread.
Fellow artist Boucq said his friend had been a "master of realist drawing" with "a real talent for humour, which he was still demonstrating with the nurses when I saw him in his hospital bed a fortnight ago".
Brazilian author Paulo Coelho, whose best-selling 1995 novel The Alchemist was illustrated by Moebius, paid tribute to his collaborator on Twitter.
"The great Moebius died today, but the great Moebius is still alive," he tweeted.
"Your body died today, your work is more alive than ever."
French culture minister Frederic Mitterrand said France had lost "two great artists", referring to Giraud and his alias.
In 2007 one of his drawings sold for 58,242 euros ($76,433) at an auction. (AFP)
Keep checking Street Corner and the Media Man blog network for more on these developing news stories and more.
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Hollywood and AussieWood fans, and all you pro wrestling aka sports entertainment fans out there. It's that time of the week again. Here's your latest fix of entertainment and celebrity news Aussie style, direct from the Media Man agency...
Bwin.Party Says "That's Entertainment"; Movies And Games Collide Online...
Gaming giant bwin.party digital entertainment has just released a bush tucker bag of new online games via its PartyCasino brand. Check out Knight Rider and more Hollywood blockbusters now, and check out Media Man for all the new game reviews. Not surprisingly old blue eyes, Frank Sinatra, has maintained his popularity with young and old with the Sinatra slot. You can even play for free or for money in USA, AUD, CAN or EURO. Poker fans will also be in luck. Not into games? No problem - check out the movie reviews instead.
Top 10 Hollywood Movie Remakes...
Top 10 Best Remakes...
1. Ocean’s Eleven (2001)
2. The Mummy (1999)
3. King Kong (2005)
4. The Italian Job (2003)
5. Cape Fear (1991)
6. The Parent Trap (1998)
7. Gone in 60 Seconds (2000)
8. Dawn of the Dead (2004)
9. Scarface (1983)
10. Alfie (2004)
Top 10 Worst Remakes
1. Arthur (2011)
2. The Wicker Man (2006)
3. Fame (2009)
4. The Day the Earth Stood Still (2008)
5. Clash of the Titans (2010)
6. Planet of the Apes (2001)
7. Piranha 3-D (2010)
8. House of Wax (2005)
9. Freaky Friday (2003)
10. The Texas Chainsaw Massacre (2003)
Hollywood Stars, Paris Hilton Tipped To Party At The Star In Sin City Sydney...
The Aussie casino wars, and the war for the entertainment dollar is alive and well. It's Echo Entertainment - The Star VS Crown Limited - Crown Melbourne and friends...
Give it a month or so... time for The Star casino scandals to cool off a bit more, and a bush tucker bag of Hollywood movie stars and celebs galore will be partying hard at its new nightclub, Marquee.
We hear that the VIP guests including a few casino whales are due to hit the party on March 30.
Dutch producer and DJ Afrojack - real name Nick van de Wall, is confirmed, and now we hear that hunt is on for his babe Paris Hilton (that was quite likely the original sin idea. Get the woman via the man. Talk about bait for fish and whales. Will it lure the right school of fish or not? time will tell, but the odds of success are there with Paris Hilton and friends. The heiress milked the rumours days ago via Twitter with: "Congrats @NoahTepperberg on@MarqueeSydney! @DJAfrojack is gonna kill it at the opening party down there! I love #Australia!"
We all know about the loss of former Star embattled boss Sid Vaikunta and The Star will be looking to get PR back to positive, but will the Australian press let it be?
Marquee is a joint venture with Tao Group, which is behind many of America's biggest nightclubs, including Tao in Las Vegas and New York, and Marquee Nightclub and Dayclub in Vegas.
In Vegas Marquee is able to draw names such as Rihanna, Beyonce, Chris Martin and Gwyneth Paltrow, so let's wish them well shall we.
James Bond studio makes £3.9m loss...
Pinewood Shepperton studios slumped to a £3.9m loss in 2011 after it failed in an attempt to build replicas of Paris, New York and Amsterdam on green belt land.
The studios enjoyed record revenues of £50.7m in 2011, up by 17 per cent after it filmed scenes for movies such as The Hobbit and the next James Bond film, Skyfall. But it took an exceptional charge of £7.1m reflecting five years of costs for its "Project Pinewood" application, which officials turned down in January. This pushed the company, which is majority owned by the property group Peel Holdings, £3.9m into the red, after profits of £5.8m the previous year.
Project Pinewood would have seen the creation of a "purpose-built" film set with 1,400 permanent homes inside the streetscape buildings at Iver Heath, Buckinghamshire. The project would have cost £200m and created almost 1,000 jobs in the next 10 years, with 420 affordable homes offered inside the film sets. But it was fiercely resisted by campaigners.
The Pinewood and Shepperton studios have been home to more than 1,500 films in the last 75 years, while the two studios and the company's Teddington site have hosted more than 600 television shows.
Russell Crowe in Talks to Join Darren Aronofsky’s ‘Noah’...
Russell Crowe has expressed interest in taking on the title role of director Darren Aronofsky‘s new project, “Noah”.
Based on the biblical tale of Noah’s Ark, the movie will be Aronofsky’s first since the critically acclaimed “Black Swan”. While following some of the classic plot points of the original tale, “Noah” will approach the story from a new perspective. This modern Noah will be played as a man who has a deep love for earth and it’s inhabitants, but who is heartbroken over the way humans have taken advantage of the planet.
When asked about the film’s religious connotations, Aronofsky responded, "I don’t think it’s a very religious story. I think it’s a great fable that’s part of so many different religions and spiritual practices. I just think it’s a great story that’s never been on film. I want to make a big event film, and I think it can be that."
The director, who arrived on to the scene with 1998′s “Pi”, has made it clear from the start that he wanted Crowe on board. When the “Gladiator” star found out he was being eyed for the film, he coyly tweeted to his fans, “And I’m eyeing him right back…whole lot of eyeing."
Other names that were thrown around for the role included Liam Neeson, Christian Bale, and Michael Fassbender. The project received big buzz even before Crowe’s involvement, after it was announced that its budget would be a substantial $130 million.
Noah is due to start filming this July and will hit the cinema in 2013.
Mel Gibson completes anger management...
Australian Mel Gibson has completed a course of court-ordered anger management therapy as part of his probation.
The movie star pleaded no contest to a misdemeanor battery charge, relating to an alleged attack on ex-girlfriend Oksana Grigorieva in 2010, and was sentenced to three years’ probation, 16 hours of community service and 52 weeks of counseling to curb his infamous temper.
He fulfilled the community service requirements last year and has continued to impress Los Angeles Superior Court Judge Stephanie Sautner with his efforts by completing additional therapy sessions too.
Popular entertainment news website TMZ has reported the actor will finally be off the hook if he stays out of trouble for two more years.
Gibson is understood to be looking to release his movie 'Get The Gringo' via Icon Film Distribution Australia. Icon is planning a traditional theatrical release despite North American plans to launch an exclusive video-on-demand (VOD) offer.
The US deal will result in the action-thriller being distributed by 20th Century Fox Home Entertainment from May 1 on DirecTV, which will charge $10.99 per home viewing, according to Deadline.com. A wider release on Blu-ray, VOD, and digital download will be rolled out after one month.
In a statement, Fox Home Entertainment president Mike Dunn said: "As digital distribution evolves, we are constantly looking at new ways to bring the consumer greater access than ever before to our movies. Reaching nearly 20 million households on the DirecTV premium platform offers us an opportunity to explore innovative approaches like this one for Get The Gringo."
Icon Film Distribution is set to release the film in Australia on May 12.
Wrestling Legend "Rowdy" Roddy Piper In Fancypants Movie...
Fancypants is a 2011 film directed by Joshua Russell and starring Patrick Gleason, Roddy Piper, and Robert Carradine. Featuring Nick Turturro, Richard Kind, and introducing Jackson Dunn.
It is a comedy/drama about a professional wrestler who is afraid of conflict in real life. He is nearing the end of his career and finds out he has one fan left in an 8-year old boy, who hides a secret that will change Leo's life forever. The film was shot entirely on location in Chicago.
The film won Best Feature at the 2011 Sunscreen Film Festival in St. Petersburg, Florida, and was an official selection at the 2011 Seattle True Independent Film Festival.
Roddy Piper is also rumoured to be one of the house-mates in upcoming WWE reality TV show, 'Legends House'.
The Four Horsemen Including Ric Flair To Be Inducted Into WWE Hall Of Fame 2012; Jim Ross Tweets ...
Last week...Ross on Ric Flair’s Birthday: Happy Birthday to Ric Flair. Naitch called me this past week to catch up. He’s got a great opportunity with Coca Cola’s energy drink along with his state lottery work. I went on You Tube and checked out Ric’s TV commercials for the lotteries he promotes and they were hilarious.
Some of my fondest memories in the business involve Ric Flair and I’m so blessed to have been able to broadcast not only many Ric Flair bout but @ShawnMichaels bouts over the years, too as they are widely considered the two, best, all around pro wrestlers ever. That’s a debate that will rage on until the end of time but no one can intelligently say that Naitch and HBK aren’t on an abbreviated list of the best ever.
Wrestling Legend Hulk Hogan In Sex Tape With Woman Not Ex-Wife Or Current Wife Jennifer McDaniel...
A sex tape featuring Hulk Hogan has reportedly been shopped to porn producers Vivid Entertainment.
The company's founder Steve Hirsch told website TMZ that they were recently shown intimate footage of the wrestler, actor and TV personality by a third party.
It is unclear when the alleged tape was filmed, as the woman seen in bed with 58-year-old Hogan is said to be neither his ex-wife Linda - to whom he was married for 23 years and is currently suing for defamation - or new spouse Jennifer McDaniel, 35.
In the footage Hogan is understood to say "I started to work out again" while taking off his shirt.
Hogan told TMZ the tape was "secretly filmed" without his permission and called it was an "outrageous invasion of privacy."
It is not yet known whether Vivid or any other parties have attempted to purchase the tape.
Hulk Hogan rocketed to fame in the mid-80s because of his charisma and unique look, and a lot of strong pushing from top notch promoters who knew Hogan was a money maker and a future legend.
In 2005, he and his family appeared in the VH1 reality series "Hogan Knows Best." While the show was still on the air, Linda Hogan filed for divorce from Hogan after it was alleged he had an affair.
In 2010, Hogan married McDaniel, who is widely noted to look similar to his daughter, Brooke.
Media Man wishes Hulk Hogan and his family well with everything, and is hopefully that Hogan will one day return to Vince McMahon's WWE sports entertainment company.
Hogan is in the WWE Hall of Fame and is one of the most famous wrestlers of all time.
WWE Smackdown Did Mohegan Sun Arena In Land Based Casino...
No, the WWE doesn't own a casino anymore, but from time to time it does perform in the gaming and entertainment complexes.
The WWE Smackdown TV cameras returned to Mohegan Sun Arena on Tuesday, May 22 at 7 p.m and it was all broadcast on Australian TV via FOX on Foxtel.
The Main Event was Randy Orton (son of Cowboy Bon Orton) VS Daniel Bryan VS Sheamus aka "The Great White) in a "Triple Threat Match" for the World Heavyweight championship belt.
Other WWE Superstars included The Big Show, Mark Henry, Cody Rhodes, Ted Dibiase, Santino Marella and the Diva's (wrestling babes).
Fans, don't forget WWE WrestleMania 28 is just around the corner, and the sports entertainment company also has an Australian tour locked down for August and September of 2012.
Impact Wrestling (formally known as TNA Wrestling), is also set to tour New Zealand (and likely Australia) in about 6 or 12 months, and wrestling legend Jeff Jarrett recently thanked TV host Rove McManus in a very public way via Twitter, so where there's smoke, there's usually fire - even in professional wrestling.
WWE Legends House Will Get At Least One Non Wrestler Celebrity...
In the only confirmed WWE Network show, Legends’ House, looks like it will feature some celebrity involvement as legendary actor Adam West, famous for his roles as Batman and, more recently, lending his voice as “Mayor Adam West” on Family Guy, was pictured with the cast of Legends’ House, appearing with “Rowdy” Roddy Piper, “Mean” Gene Okerlund, “Hacksaw” Jim Duggan, Howard Finkel, Hillbilly Jim, Tony Atlas, Pat Patterson, and Jimmy Hart. The photo also shows Pussycat Dolls singer, Ashley Roberts, who is slated to be hosting the show, while Adam West will be a guest star on one of the episodes. Comedian Jeff Dye from the MTV show, Money from Strangers, also filmed some footage for the show, but his role is unknown. The Media Man agency tips high ratings will follow the show, but some other commentators are not quite as sure. Don't change your dial wrestling fans. This will be reality TV like never before, and tons of laughs are in store for those of you who stick with it. For a taste, check out the WWE YouTube channel where many other WWE shows are being broadcast, such as the famous 'Long Island Story' by Zack Ryder.
The Rock 'hyped' to star in NZ-shot movie...
Hollywood actor Dwayne 'The Rock' Johnson is "hyped" about starring in a blockbuster to be filmed in New Zealand later this year.
The former pro wrestler is heading downunder to star as Hercules in American film director Brett Ratner's upcoming epic by the same name.
Johnson told his 2,226,466 Twitter followers he is looking forward to the new action role.
"Hyped to become HERCULES and bring the mythology to life. #TilDeathOrGlory," he tweeted today.
The man mountain, standing at 6 feet 5 inches (195.58cm), spent a brief period of his childhood in Auckland with his mother's family.
He attended Richmond Road Primary School before returning to the United States with his parents.
Hercules is based on the 2008 Radical Publishing comic Hercules: The Thracian War, written by Steve Moore.
Variety Magazine says filming on the MGM flick is set to start in October.
Johnson has emerged as one of Hollywood's leading action stars with a string of films including Fast Five, G.I Joe: Retaliation and Faster.
'Road Warrior' Animal Says Sting Isn’t An Icon Unless He Passes Through WWE...
WWE Hall Of Famer Road Warrior Animal, who hosts Extreme Pro Wrestling Radio on 100.3 KFAN in Minneapolis, Minnesota, broadcast during a recent show that he doesn’t think Sting is a wrestling icon until he passes through WWE.
“Sting is not in the same league as guys like Triple H, Stone Cold, The Rock. Sting will never be considered a legend or icon until he lets his pride go and joins WWE. He needs to bury his personal issues and just get into the WWE. Sting has to come over to the WWE to be that guy, it’s a bigger stage. Impact is one thing, the WWE is a way bigger thing,” Animal said.
Animal also takes credit for Sting’s arrival to the National Wrestling Alliance in 1987.
“The NWA was looking for a spot for Sting and I said make him a brother in paint and then Sting joined us (Road Warriors) in our six-man matches,” he said.
On the best singles worker of all time, Animal said, “Easily, (Ric) Flair!”
The Rock Dwayne Johnson To Star In Pain and Gain (2013)
A pair of bodybuilders in Florida get caught up in an extortion ring and a kidnapping scheme that goes terribly wrong.
Director: Michael Bay
Writers: Scott Rosenberg (screenplay), Christopher Markus (screenplay)
Stars: Dwayne Johnson, Mark Wahlberg and Ed Harris
Johnson is also set to appear in the following:
Ciudad (pre-production)
2013 Snitch (post-production)
2012 G.I. Joe: Retaliation (post-production)
Arabian Nights (pre-production)
Sinbad (rumored)
2013 Empire State (pre-production)
2013 The Fast and the Furious 6 (pre-production)
Maybe WWE megastar John Cena is right when he implies Rocky has gone Hollywood. Aw well, its all entertainment.
Leonardo DiCaprio and Tobey Maguire Help Launch Mobli 2.0...
Keeping up-to-date with technology, Leonardo DiCaprio and Tobey Maguire were spotted at the Mobli 2.0 Launch Party in Austin, Texas on Saturday night (March 10).
Hiding most of his face, the "Inception" actor wore a Raiders hat with a dark suit jacket and jeans while posing for pictures alongside the "Spider-Man" star, who covered his slender frame in a blue button up and jacket.
With other stars such as Kevin Connelly Jared Leto and Lukas Haas alkso on hand, the blokes were there to help launch the updated app, Mobli, which gives iPhone users a fun way to share photos.
Maguire and DiCaprio believe in the company so much that they’ve invested in the new version of the app that many say will appeal to the hipster crowds. DiCaprio has reportedly shelled out nearly $4 million.
“Mobli [is] a brand new site where users can share moments and see the world through other people's eyes, is a real-time, visual social media platform, made up of subject-based channels such as people, places and topics.” a spokesperson for the mobile app company said.
During the event, DiCaprio who came in from a film shoot in New Orleans, munched on sushi while he spoke with the Mobli team.
Maguire posed for photos with fans. During the event Tobey shared his first social media post ever with the app.
The outing comes as Leo and Tobey will soon hit the big screen together - as they just wrapped up filming "The Great Gatsby" in Sydney, Australia - most of which took place at White Bay, Rozelle.
The movie follows Nick Carraway (Maguire), a Midwesterner living on Long Island who finds himself fascinated by the mysterious past and lavish lifestyle of his neighbor, Jay Gatsby (DiCaprio), while being drawn into Gatsby's circle and becoming a witness to obsession and tragedy.
Also starring Carey Mulligan, Joel Edgerton and Isla Fisher, the Baz Luhrmann directed motion picture is set to hit theaters on December 25, 2012.
James Packer donates $250,000 to Katter political party...
Australian based billionaire James Packer will not have any political influence over Katter's Australian Party, despite making a $250,000 donation, a spokesman says.
Party spokesman Scott Barrett told media Mr Packer's donation was the result of a long-standing friendship between the Packer family and party founder Bob Katter.
'James' grandfather was very good friends and business partners with Ted Theodore, who is one of Bob Katter's greatest heroes,' he said.
'There's a very good, close relationship between them (Mr Packer and Mr Katter) and they have very similar sort of goals.
'It's not surprising to see people like James Packer, who have a lot invested in Australia's future, to get behind us.
'We are the only party really that is getting behind Australia's future in backing Australian industry and Australian agriculture.'
Mr Packer's donation is one of the biggest recorded from a single donor in Queensland.
But Mr Barrett said that did not mean the casino mogul would be pulling the party's strings.
'The Packers have known Bob Katter for many years, so they know what they're getting,' he said.
'They know that he's not easily swayed.
'Just because he's contributed in this way doesn't mean he's going to pull the reins.
'Bob Katter knows what he wants and hasn't shifted on that for 40 years, so this isn't going to change the course of what were out to achieve.'
The party is holding its official campaign launch in Townsville on Sunday.
James Bond and Batman help rescue London developers...
Hollywood is helping London developers weather the financial crisis by turning empty offices into film sets, providing cash and publicity for landlords struggling to fill buildings with tenants because of the uncertain economic outlook.
In addition to films and television shows, a growing number of developers are also opening their doors to events like London Fashion Week or temporary retail sites for online companies such as Amazon, eBay and Google.
Others are planning to cash in on short-term demand from film crews seeking rooftops with panoramic views during the Olympic Games and celebrations marking the 60th anniversary of Queen Elizabeth II's coronation.
"There has been a sea change in the way landlords deal with empty space since the financial crisis," said Mark Hughes-Webb, managing director of SPACE-2 Consulting, which finds buildings for shoots and events. "They are more focused on cashflow as shareholders want to know they are working their assets." Developers have struggled to fill a series of striking new buildings meant to attract a wave of tenants: five skyscrapers in central London at varying stages of build have signed one office deal between them. The office vacancy rate in London's main financial district was 7 per cent in January, double where it stood at the end of 2007, its last low point, data from property consultancy CBRE show. SPACE-2's turnover has almost doubled over the same period.
SPOOKS AND SPOOFS
Two neighboring office blocks near the Bank of England in the main financial district have the equivalent of eleven soccer pitches of empty space between them.
One is Cannon Place and though reportedly close to signing its first tenants, Hughes-Webb said it was the venue for a new BBC spy drama, the type of shoot that can raise 1,500-7,000 pounds ($2,400-$11,100) per day. SPACE-2 takes about a quarter of any fee. "We choose the right events to keep Cannon Place in the public eye and associated with quality brands," said Mark Swetman, project director for Cannon Place developer Hines, saying good publicity was a bigger consideration than money.
The other block is the Walbrook building, which was used to shoot the latest film in the spoof spy series Johnny English. In the real world, it has been empty for two years and wealth manager Schroders pulled out of a move there in December.
Film shoots raise similar amounts to TV productions and it is not only buildings in the best locations that benefit. New Batman film The Dark Knight Rises includes a stunt sequence shot at an office block in the south London suburb of Croydon, with the area's dour 1960s architecture doubling up as Gotham City. Not all landlords are opening their doors. Western Europe's tallest skyscraper, the 1,016-feet Shard nearing completion next to London Bridge train station, turned down makers of the new James Bond film Skyfall, which has been filming near the Tower of London, even though it has not yet signed an office tenant.
"It is disruptive. We do not need those kind of gimmicks," a spokesman for developer Sellar Property Group said.
Conferences and events can raise even more. London Fashion Week netted landlord Land Securities more than 10,000 pounds when it set up one of the longest catwalks ever seen in London at the One New Change retail and office scheme next to St Paul's Cathedral this month.
One of the fastest growing sources of new revenue is internet retailers like eBay setting up temporary stores to build trust with shoppers wary of buying goods online. Landlords can fill space for between one week and six months and demand for space far outstrips supply, Hughes-Webb said.
Australian developer Lend Lease did 20 temporary lettings across three British shopping centers last year to plug gaps left by failing retailers, something that would not have occurred to developers five years ago, said Simon Donaldson, head of retail operations.
"Not only did it bring in several hundred thousand pounds extra in rent, it saved more than a million pounds in empty rate liabilities," he said. Owners of buildings with panoramic rooftop views plan to cash in on demand from camera crews looking for sites during this year's Olympic Games and Diamond Jubilee events. Fees will likely double from their norm to 300 pounds per hour, Hughes-Webb said. "It should not have taken the recession for developers to get more creative and work out there is cash to be made," he said, citing a small patch of roof on a building north of London Bridge that is frequently used to film crowds of commuters.
"That square meter is probably the most valuable piece of real estate in London."
Marvel Announces Two All-New, All-Ages Titles...
Check out The Avengers: Earth's Mightiest Heroes Adventures and Ultimate Spider-Man Adventures this April...
This April, Marvel is pleased to announce the launch of THE AVENGERS: EARTH'S MIGHTIEST HEROES ADVENTURES #1 and ULTIMATE SPIDER-MAN ADVENTURES #1, two all-new ongoing comic book titles for comic fans of all-ages! These titles connect with TV's highly anticipated animation destination, Marvel Universe on Disney XD, debuting Sunday, April 1, the only place to catch "Ultimate Spider-Man" and season two of "The Avengers: Earth’s Mightiest Heroes!" With two action-packed animated series and compelling comics, fans will have the chance to further immerse themselves in the adventures of Spider-Man, Captain America, Iron Man, Hulk, Thor, and the rest of the Avengers--including special guest stars!
“I couldn’t be more excited for Marvel Universe,” said Marvel Editor-in-Chief, Axel Alonso. “There is something special about the Avengers and Spider-Man that speaks to fans of all ages, and with the launch of Marvel Universe on Disney XD this April, what better way to connect the two experiences than these new ongoing series?”
In THE AVENGERS: EARTH'S MIGHTIEST HEROES ADVENTURES #1, the creative team of Chris Yost and Adam Dekraker, present not one, but TWO new action-packed Avengers stories to catch you up on the adventures of Earth’s Mightiest through the eyes of Agent Coulson.
Then in ULTIMATE SPIDER-MAN ADVENTURES #1, from Man Of Action ("Ben 10"), Dan Slott, Ty Templeton & Nuno Plati, Peter Parker must balance battling super villains and the drama of high school! But fear not True Believer, there is no menace too diabolical and no test too challenging for Spider-Man!
No fan of the Avengers or Spider-Man can miss out on these new action-packed series, sure to excite fans of all ages! So make sure you’re the first one in line this Spring to catch THE AVENGERS: EARTH'S MIGHTIEST HEROES ADVENTURES #1 and ULTIMATE SPIDER-MAN ADVENTURES #1 as the heroes make their big TV debut!
THE AVENGERS: EARTH’S MIGHTIEST HEROES ADVENTURES #1
Written by CHRIS YOST
Pencils by ADAM DEKRAKER
All Ages …$2.99
ON SALE THIS APRIL!
ULTIMATE SPIDER-MAN ADVENTURES #1
Written by MAN OF ACTION, DAN SLOTT & TY TEMPLETON
Art by NUNO PLATI
All Ages …$2.99
ON SALE THIS APRIL! (Credit: Marvel Entertainment)
Colleagues mourn comic book 'master' Moebius...
Moebius, the French comic book artist whose spectacular science fantasy-based work wrought its magic on Hollywood classics such as Alien and Tron, has died after a long illness aged 73.
Moebius - or Jean Henri Gaston Giraud - won a devoted following as far afield as Japan and the United States, countries working in radically different comic-book traditions.
"The whole profession is in shock, totally devastated, even if we knew that he was seriously ill," said Gilles Ratier, head of France's Association of Comic-Book Critics.
Colleagues paid tribute to the artist and writer generally acknowledged as having been one of the most daring and innovative in his field.
Giraud, who grew up drawing cowboys and indians, published his first drawings in 1957 and found fame with the western character Lieutenant Blueberry in 1963.
The lean, mean gunslinger was to become one of the most iconic figures in French comic-book history.
Giraud adopted the pseudonym Moebius for his illustrations in science fiction books and magazines.
But he also worked under other pseudonyms, including Gir, Giraud and Moeb.
But as Moebius, he said, he operated on a whole different level.
"When I am in the skin of Moebius, I draw in a state of trance, I try to escape from my 'ego'," he said in 2010.
'Master of realist drawing'
In 1975, Moebius was one of the co-founders of Metal Hurlant (Heavy Metal), a spectacular blend of visually arresting comic-book art that was heavily inspired by the counter-culture from across the Atlantic.
The magazine's blend of science fiction, epic fantasy and politically incorrect humour - which featured in a 1981 animated film of the same name - provided the perfect platform for Moebius' far-out creations.
As his reputation grew, he collaborated with US comic-books legend Stan Lee on an adventure featuring the enigmatic The Silver Surfer character.
And in another style entirely, he tackled the story of Icarus with Jiro Taniguchi, a master in the Japanese manga tradition.
His influence also spread into cinema, as he put his visual stamp on the first Alien film and the science fiction adventure Tron.
In 2010-11 France's Cartier Foundation for Contemporary Art acknowledged his stature, staging a major retrospective of his work.
Tributes were quick to come in as news of his death spread.
Fellow artist Boucq said his friend had been a "master of realist drawing" with "a real talent for humour, which he was still demonstrating with the nurses when I saw him in his hospital bed a fortnight ago".
Brazilian author Paulo Coelho, whose best-selling 1995 novel The Alchemist was illustrated by Moebius, paid tribute to his collaborator on Twitter.
"The great Moebius died today, but the great Moebius is still alive," he tweeted.
"Your body died today, your work is more alive than ever."
French culture minister Frederic Mitterrand said France had lost "two great artists", referring to Giraud and his alias.
In 2007 one of his drawings sold for 58,242 euros ($76,433) at an auction. (AFP)
Keep checking Street Corner and the Media Man blog network for more on these developing news stories and more.
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Monday, March 12, 2012
Marvel Entertainment: The Wolverine, Hugh Jackman and Leo DiCaprio Cafe, Coffee and Movie Connection
Profiles
Marvel Entertainment Marvel Comics Marvel Studios Avengers Amazing Spider-Man Captain America The Incredible Hulk Thor Iron-Man Movies Hollywood Leonardo DiCaprio Comics Cafes Social and Community Entrepreneurs
Australia, Hollywood, USA, Canada... the world loves The Wolverine. Get ready for Australia's favourite son, Hugh Jackman, to get his claws into the next of the Wolverine movie franchise thanks to our friends at Marvel Entertainment, and as we learn, when Hugh's not clawing someone, his enjoys sipping coffee (and even running a coffee shop in New York City). Now Titanic and The Great Gatsby movie star Leonardo DiCaprio is also getting in on the act. Could Bondi Beach or Sydney's CBD be next to get a taste Jackman's own coffee? The Media Man agency with the story...
Hugh Jackman, now Leonardo DiCaprio get into coffee and cafe business; Cheers to that...
Are you ready for a cup of Hugh Jackman's best coffee? Well, you better be you budding wolverines out there in the suburban woods.
Aussie acting and danceman living legend Hugh Jackman recently launched a coffee and tea company that raises money for charity, as well as serving up delicious coffee and other bites.
Philanthropy is the foundation behind Jackman’s latest business endeavors... his entry into coffee world. He told press the Paul Newman and his company, Newman’s Own, which has donated millions to charity, was a bit part of the inspiration.
Jackman elaborates on key reasons for the exciting venture...
“Hey, I’m a coffee snob,” says Jackman, who could drink coffee "all day, because I just love it," but limits himself to one or two cups.
“If I’m buying it, I want a great cup of coffee,” he says. “If you can have a great cup of coffee and the profits of that company are actually going back to different charities, I think it’s a win-win for everybody.”
Jackman’s prime interest in creating a coffee company was sparked during a tour he took as an official ambassador for World Vision, an organization that works with children and families. In Ethiopia, he met a fellow named Dukale, a local coffee farmer, and was hit by how hard and long he worked to cater for his family, and by how a little assist could make a big difference in the lives of coffee farmers.
Mate, Barry Steingard, who has 25 years experience in the coffee and restaurant industry, was planning on getting back in the coffee business. “I said, ‘Well, do you need a partner?" Jackman says.
So far Laughing Man Coffee & Tea — chocolates were also recently added — is the first subsidiary under Jackman’s umbrella company, Laughing Man Worldwide. The way it works is 50 percent of the subsidiary profits go to the parent company, which then donates 100 percent of its profits. Educational initiatives are the focus of the coffee company, which has partnered with Harlem Village Academies, the well-regarded charter schools in New York, and WorldVision.
And 'Our Hugh' is not the only community minded movie star to get in on the coffee craze.
Leonardo DiCaprio is partnering with the La Colombe Torrefaction coffee company to create a special blend, LYON, with net profits earmarked for environmental projects supported by the actor’s foundation.
Meanwhile, Paul Newman’s daughter, Nell Newman, partnered with Vermont’s Green Mountain Coffee Roasters, Inc. to source, roast, package and distribute fair trade organic coffee under the Newman’s Own Organics label. Green Mountain allocates at least 5 percent of pre-tax profits to social and environmental projects in the communities where it conducts business.
Celebrity coffees are just a small but important element of the market, but a growing sector. The current trend of celebrities working with high-quality roasters to make coffee for a cause "can only be a good thing," says Miles Small, owner and editor-in-chief of CoffeeTalk magazine, based in Vashon, Wash.
“Coffee is, and has always been an instrumental tool in bringing disparate folks together for a common cause,” he says. “Buying celebrity coffee with a donation element helps toward achieving the charitable goals of the celebrity and also helps the over 25 million families worldwide whose survival is dependent on the growing of this ‘not so simple’ beverage called coffee."
The coffee-celebrity connection seems like a pretty good fit. We all know celebs like to hang out (and sometimes be spotted) at cafes, and paparazzi is also on a Wolverine like prowl at cafes, so why not raise some money for worthy causes in the process.
Jackman shares more of his thoughts on the Hollywood - AussieWood cafe connection.
“Coffee is the world over,” he said. “It’s one of the oldest products known to man and it’s one of the greatest crops ever. Traditionally, coffee is part of ritual and part of unity and community.”
In Ethiopia, the families Jackman met roasted, ground, brewed and drank coffee together. “It’s all part of community and being together,” he said. “I think it’s kind of a great product and underlines what our company is about.”
A Media Man agency commentator said "This may be one of the better Hugh Jackman... and Leonardo DiCaprio business ventures to date. It's rather like a charity not being a charity, so the giver - the customer, is not left with a bad taste in their mouth but rather enjoys the charity connection and knows they are getting real value for money. We're now tempted to start our own and put some of our celebrity clients onto this concept, but for now will will leave the action for Jackman and DiCaprio, who have the vast resources and connections to make their brands worldwide hits from New York, Bondi Beach and beyond. Settling some of these cafes up in cashed up places such as casinos... like The Star in Sydney, Crown in Melbourne and Perth and on the Las Vegas Strip in the U.S would also be bound to be a winner also. Cheers to that".
The Wolverine (2013): update...
I won’t lie to you, I have been talking to writers… I’m a big fan of the Japanese saga in the comic book. Hugh Jackman. In September 2009, Gavin Hood speculated that there will be a sequel to X-Men Origins: Wolverine, which will be set in Japan. During one of the post credits scenes Logan is seen drinking at a bar in Japan. Such a location was the subject of Claremont and Miller's series, which was not in the first film as Jackman felt "what we need to do is establish who [Logan] is and find out how he became Wolverine". Jackman stated the Claremont-Miller series is his favorite Wolverine story. Of the Japanese arc, Jackman also stated that:“..there are so many areas of that Japanese story, I love the idea of this kind of anarchic character, the outsider, being in this world – I can see it aesthetically, too – full of honor and tradition and customs and someone who’s really anti-all of that, and trying to negotiate his way. The idea of the samurai, too – and the tradition there. It’s really great. In the comic book he gets his ass kicked by a couple of samurai – not even mutants. He’s shocked by that at first.” Jackman added that another Wolverine film would be a follow-up rather than continuing on from X-Men: The Last Stand. The inclusion of Deadpool and Gambit also leads to the possibilities of their own spin-offs. Before Wolverine's release, Lauren Shuler Donner approached Simon Beaufoy to write the script, but he did not feel confident enough to commit. On May 5, 2009, just four days after its initial weekend run, the sequel was officially confirmed. A Deadpool spin-off has also been confirmed with Ryan Reynolds attached to reprise the role of Wade Wilson, but producer Shuler Donner stated that she wants to "ignore the version of Deadpool that we saw in Wolverine and just start over again. Reboot it." Christopher McQuarrie, who went uncredited for his work on X-Men, was hired to write the screenplay for the Wolverine sequel in August 2009. According to Lauren Shuler-Donner, the sequel will focus on the relationship between Wolverine and Mariko, the daughter of a Japanese crime lord, and what happens to him in Japan. Wolverine will have a different fighting style due to Mariko's father having "this stick-like weapon. There'll be samurai, ninja, katana blades, different forms of martial arts – mano-a-mano, extreme fighting." She continued: "We want to make it authentic so I think it's very likely we'll be shooting in Japan. I think it's likely the characters will speak English rather than Japanese with subtitles." In January 2010, at the People's Choice Awards, Jackman stated that the film will start shooting sometime in 2011, and in March 2010 McQuarrie declared that the screenplay was finished for production to start in January the following year. In October 2010, it was confirmed that Darren Aronofsky would direct the film. Jackman commented that with Darren Aronofsky directing that Wolverine 2 will not be "usual" stating, "This is, hopefully for me, going to be out of the box. It’s going to be the best one, I hope... Well, I would say that, but I really do feel that, and I feel this is going to be very different. This is Wolverine. This is not Popeye. He’s kind of dark... But, you know, this is a change of pace. Chris McQuarrie, who wrote The Usual Suspects, has written the script, so that’ll give you a good clue. [Aronofsky’s] going to make it fantastic. There’s going to be some meat on the bones. There will be something to think about as you leave the theater, for sure”. Bryan Singer was invited by Shuler Donner to direct, but declined. In November 2010, Aronofsky stated that the title of the film will be The Wolverine and described the film as a "one-off" rather than a sequel. Also in November, Fox Filmed Entertainment sent out a press release stating that they have signed Darren Aronofsky and his production company Protozoa Pictures to a new two-year, overall deal. Under the deal, Protozoa will develop and produce films for both 20th Century Fox and Fox Searchlight Pictures. Aronofsky’s debut picture under the pact will be The Wolverine. It had been reported that the film would begin principal photography in March 2011 in New York City before the production moves to Japan for the bulk of shooting. In March 2011, Darren Aronofsky bowed out of directing the film, saying the project would keep him out of the country for too long. In a joint statement with Fox, Aronofsky stated, "As I talked more about the film with my collaborators at Fox, it became clear that the production of The Wolverine would keep me out of the country for almost a year... I was not comfortable being away from my family for that length of time. I am sad that I won't be able to see the project through, as it is a terrific script and I was very much looking forward to working with my friend, Hugh Jackman, again". Fox also decided to be "in no rush" to start the production due to the damage incurred in Japan by the 2011 Tōhoku earthquake and tsunami. In June 16, 2011 James Mangold was chosen to direct the film, having previously been on a shortlist which included directors José Padilha, Doug Liman, Antoine Fuqua, Mark Romanek, Justin Lin, and Gavin O'Connor. On June 27, Jackman said in an interview that filming for The Wolverine would start in October. Silver Samurai will be the film's villain. In September 2011, filming was postponed to Spring 2012 so Jackman can work on Les Misérables. Location include both Vancouver and Tokyo, with Mark Bomback working on a rewrite of McQuarrie's script. A July 26, 2013 release date has been set.
If it sounds like 2012 is going to be a pretty good year for superhero movies, both on an entertainment front (for fans) and business angle (for studios etc), that's because it is. Enjoy brigadiers, and as Marvel living legend Stan Lee would say - Excelsior!
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Australia, Hollywood, USA, Canada... the world loves The Wolverine. Get ready for Australia's favourite son, Hugh Jackman, to get his claws into the next of the Wolverine movie franchise thanks to our friends at Marvel Entertainment, and as we learn, when Hugh's not clawing someone, his enjoys sipping coffee (and even running a coffee shop in New York City). Now Titanic and The Great Gatsby movie star Leonardo DiCaprio is also getting in on the act. Could Bondi Beach or Sydney's CBD be next to get a taste Jackman's own coffee? The Media Man agency with the story...
Hugh Jackman, now Leonardo DiCaprio get into coffee and cafe business; Cheers to that...
Are you ready for a cup of Hugh Jackman's best coffee? Well, you better be you budding wolverines out there in the suburban woods.
Aussie acting and danceman living legend Hugh Jackman recently launched a coffee and tea company that raises money for charity, as well as serving up delicious coffee and other bites.
Philanthropy is the foundation behind Jackman’s latest business endeavors... his entry into coffee world. He told press the Paul Newman and his company, Newman’s Own, which has donated millions to charity, was a bit part of the inspiration.
Jackman elaborates on key reasons for the exciting venture...
“Hey, I’m a coffee snob,” says Jackman, who could drink coffee "all day, because I just love it," but limits himself to one or two cups.
“If I’m buying it, I want a great cup of coffee,” he says. “If you can have a great cup of coffee and the profits of that company are actually going back to different charities, I think it’s a win-win for everybody.”
Jackman’s prime interest in creating a coffee company was sparked during a tour he took as an official ambassador for World Vision, an organization that works with children and families. In Ethiopia, he met a fellow named Dukale, a local coffee farmer, and was hit by how hard and long he worked to cater for his family, and by how a little assist could make a big difference in the lives of coffee farmers.
Mate, Barry Steingard, who has 25 years experience in the coffee and restaurant industry, was planning on getting back in the coffee business. “I said, ‘Well, do you need a partner?" Jackman says.
So far Laughing Man Coffee & Tea — chocolates were also recently added — is the first subsidiary under Jackman’s umbrella company, Laughing Man Worldwide. The way it works is 50 percent of the subsidiary profits go to the parent company, which then donates 100 percent of its profits. Educational initiatives are the focus of the coffee company, which has partnered with Harlem Village Academies, the well-regarded charter schools in New York, and WorldVision.
And 'Our Hugh' is not the only community minded movie star to get in on the coffee craze.
Leonardo DiCaprio is partnering with the La Colombe Torrefaction coffee company to create a special blend, LYON, with net profits earmarked for environmental projects supported by the actor’s foundation.
Meanwhile, Paul Newman’s daughter, Nell Newman, partnered with Vermont’s Green Mountain Coffee Roasters, Inc. to source, roast, package and distribute fair trade organic coffee under the Newman’s Own Organics label. Green Mountain allocates at least 5 percent of pre-tax profits to social and environmental projects in the communities where it conducts business.
Celebrity coffees are just a small but important element of the market, but a growing sector. The current trend of celebrities working with high-quality roasters to make coffee for a cause "can only be a good thing," says Miles Small, owner and editor-in-chief of CoffeeTalk magazine, based in Vashon, Wash.
“Coffee is, and has always been an instrumental tool in bringing disparate folks together for a common cause,” he says. “Buying celebrity coffee with a donation element helps toward achieving the charitable goals of the celebrity and also helps the over 25 million families worldwide whose survival is dependent on the growing of this ‘not so simple’ beverage called coffee."
The coffee-celebrity connection seems like a pretty good fit. We all know celebs like to hang out (and sometimes be spotted) at cafes, and paparazzi is also on a Wolverine like prowl at cafes, so why not raise some money for worthy causes in the process.
Jackman shares more of his thoughts on the Hollywood - AussieWood cafe connection.
“Coffee is the world over,” he said. “It’s one of the oldest products known to man and it’s one of the greatest crops ever. Traditionally, coffee is part of ritual and part of unity and community.”
In Ethiopia, the families Jackman met roasted, ground, brewed and drank coffee together. “It’s all part of community and being together,” he said. “I think it’s kind of a great product and underlines what our company is about.”
A Media Man agency commentator said "This may be one of the better Hugh Jackman... and Leonardo DiCaprio business ventures to date. It's rather like a charity not being a charity, so the giver - the customer, is not left with a bad taste in their mouth but rather enjoys the charity connection and knows they are getting real value for money. We're now tempted to start our own and put some of our celebrity clients onto this concept, but for now will will leave the action for Jackman and DiCaprio, who have the vast resources and connections to make their brands worldwide hits from New York, Bondi Beach and beyond. Settling some of these cafes up in cashed up places such as casinos... like The Star in Sydney, Crown in Melbourne and Perth and on the Las Vegas Strip in the U.S would also be bound to be a winner also. Cheers to that".
The Wolverine (2013): update...
I won’t lie to you, I have been talking to writers… I’m a big fan of the Japanese saga in the comic book. Hugh Jackman. In September 2009, Gavin Hood speculated that there will be a sequel to X-Men Origins: Wolverine, which will be set in Japan. During one of the post credits scenes Logan is seen drinking at a bar in Japan. Such a location was the subject of Claremont and Miller's series, which was not in the first film as Jackman felt "what we need to do is establish who [Logan] is and find out how he became Wolverine". Jackman stated the Claremont-Miller series is his favorite Wolverine story. Of the Japanese arc, Jackman also stated that:“..there are so many areas of that Japanese story, I love the idea of this kind of anarchic character, the outsider, being in this world – I can see it aesthetically, too – full of honor and tradition and customs and someone who’s really anti-all of that, and trying to negotiate his way. The idea of the samurai, too – and the tradition there. It’s really great. In the comic book he gets his ass kicked by a couple of samurai – not even mutants. He’s shocked by that at first.” Jackman added that another Wolverine film would be a follow-up rather than continuing on from X-Men: The Last Stand. The inclusion of Deadpool and Gambit also leads to the possibilities of their own spin-offs. Before Wolverine's release, Lauren Shuler Donner approached Simon Beaufoy to write the script, but he did not feel confident enough to commit. On May 5, 2009, just four days after its initial weekend run, the sequel was officially confirmed. A Deadpool spin-off has also been confirmed with Ryan Reynolds attached to reprise the role of Wade Wilson, but producer Shuler Donner stated that she wants to "ignore the version of Deadpool that we saw in Wolverine and just start over again. Reboot it." Christopher McQuarrie, who went uncredited for his work on X-Men, was hired to write the screenplay for the Wolverine sequel in August 2009. According to Lauren Shuler-Donner, the sequel will focus on the relationship between Wolverine and Mariko, the daughter of a Japanese crime lord, and what happens to him in Japan. Wolverine will have a different fighting style due to Mariko's father having "this stick-like weapon. There'll be samurai, ninja, katana blades, different forms of martial arts – mano-a-mano, extreme fighting." She continued: "We want to make it authentic so I think it's very likely we'll be shooting in Japan. I think it's likely the characters will speak English rather than Japanese with subtitles." In January 2010, at the People's Choice Awards, Jackman stated that the film will start shooting sometime in 2011, and in March 2010 McQuarrie declared that the screenplay was finished for production to start in January the following year. In October 2010, it was confirmed that Darren Aronofsky would direct the film. Jackman commented that with Darren Aronofsky directing that Wolverine 2 will not be "usual" stating, "This is, hopefully for me, going to be out of the box. It’s going to be the best one, I hope... Well, I would say that, but I really do feel that, and I feel this is going to be very different. This is Wolverine. This is not Popeye. He’s kind of dark... But, you know, this is a change of pace. Chris McQuarrie, who wrote The Usual Suspects, has written the script, so that’ll give you a good clue. [Aronofsky’s] going to make it fantastic. There’s going to be some meat on the bones. There will be something to think about as you leave the theater, for sure”. Bryan Singer was invited by Shuler Donner to direct, but declined. In November 2010, Aronofsky stated that the title of the film will be The Wolverine and described the film as a "one-off" rather than a sequel. Also in November, Fox Filmed Entertainment sent out a press release stating that they have signed Darren Aronofsky and his production company Protozoa Pictures to a new two-year, overall deal. Under the deal, Protozoa will develop and produce films for both 20th Century Fox and Fox Searchlight Pictures. Aronofsky’s debut picture under the pact will be The Wolverine. It had been reported that the film would begin principal photography in March 2011 in New York City before the production moves to Japan for the bulk of shooting. In March 2011, Darren Aronofsky bowed out of directing the film, saying the project would keep him out of the country for too long. In a joint statement with Fox, Aronofsky stated, "As I talked more about the film with my collaborators at Fox, it became clear that the production of The Wolverine would keep me out of the country for almost a year... I was not comfortable being away from my family for that length of time. I am sad that I won't be able to see the project through, as it is a terrific script and I was very much looking forward to working with my friend, Hugh Jackman, again". Fox also decided to be "in no rush" to start the production due to the damage incurred in Japan by the 2011 Tōhoku earthquake and tsunami. In June 16, 2011 James Mangold was chosen to direct the film, having previously been on a shortlist which included directors José Padilha, Doug Liman, Antoine Fuqua, Mark Romanek, Justin Lin, and Gavin O'Connor. On June 27, Jackman said in an interview that filming for The Wolverine would start in October. Silver Samurai will be the film's villain. In September 2011, filming was postponed to Spring 2012 so Jackman can work on Les Misérables. Location include both Vancouver and Tokyo, with Mark Bomback working on a rewrite of McQuarrie's script. A July 26, 2013 release date has been set.
If it sounds like 2012 is going to be a pretty good year for superhero movies, both on an entertainment front (for fans) and business angle (for studios etc), that's because it is. Enjoy brigadiers, and as Marvel living legend Stan Lee would say - Excelsior!
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Sunday, March 11, 2012
PartyPoker And PartyCasino Owner bwin.party Digital Entertainment Plans Return to US Market
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Bwin.Party Digital Entertainment PartyCasino.com PartyPoker.com World Poker Tour Casinos United States World Casino Directory Global Gaming Directory
PartyPoker And PartyCasino Owner bwin.party Digital Entertainment Plans Return to US Market...
Online gambling firm bwin.party are set to return to the US poker market after almost six years away following their application for a gaming licence with the Nevada Gaming Control Board.
The Gibraltar-based company – which owns online poker room PartyPoker – have submitted their application to add their name to an ever-growing list of firms showing massive interest in taking advantage of the expected legalisation of online poker in the USA.
Bwin.Party Digital Entertainment plc was formed in March last year following the merger of Bwin Interactive Entertainment AG and PartyGaming plc to create the world’s largest publicly traded online gambling company that is now listed on the London Stock Exchange.
PartyGaming Left US Market in 2006
This merger came almost five years after PartyGaming took the decision to suspend all real-money games in the USA, before then exiting the market three days after the US government’s passing of the Unlawful Internet Gaming Enforcement Act (UIGEA) back on September 29, 2006.
In April of 2009, PartyGaming decided to reach a settlement with the US Department of Justice (DoJ) in which they agreed to pay a $105 million penalty over four years as part of a non-prosecution agreement for providing online gambling to American customers before the UIGEA was passed.
As an element of the agreement, PartyGaming put its name to a “statement of facts” in which it admitted that, before October of 2006, they had aimed to attract American citizens that resulted in the processing of transactions “contrary to certain US laws”.
This deal ensured that PartyGaming were not prosecuted and also made sure that they could return to the US market if – and when – new laws are put in place to regulate all internet gambling in the North American nation.
Partnership Provided Opportunity to Return
Bwin’s merger with PartyGaming last year also paved the way for the new company to partner with Nevada-based gaming firms Boyd Gaming and MGM Resorts International late last year in what was considered an “anticipatory” move ahead of the hoped-for legalisation of online gambling in the States.
The venture has resulted in bwin.party owning 65% of the company as they provide and maintain the software for both gaming businesses, while MGM – which also runs hotels – holds 25% and Boyd Gaming just 10%.
Boyd Gaming and MGM have previously applied for licences with the Nevada Gaming Control Board to operate as online poker providers.
PartyPoker Still World’s Second Biggest Poker Room
PartyPoker had been the world’s biggest internet poker brand – if based on their number of players and cash game revenue – before pulling out of the US market, although it still holds the position as the second biggest behind PokerStars.
While Jim Ryan, bwin.party’s chief operating officer, recently told media that the joint venture is unlikely to see them regain the 50% share PartyPoker enjoyed before the introduction of the UIGEA, he does expect to see a “very meaningful liquidity pool” in what will be a highly competitive market.
Stay tuned as well follow up the story.
6 March 2012
bwin.party digital entertainment plc
(‘bwin.party’ or the ‘Company’)
Sale of Ongame to Shuffle Master
Highlights:
Sale of Ongame, a leading B2B online poker network, to Shuffle Master for up to €29.5 million on a cash-free and debt-free basis
Initial consideration of €19.5 million payable in cash on completion, subject to a post-completion working capital adjustment
Further consideration of up to €10.0 million payable in cash in the event that regulated online poker commences in the United States on either a federal or intra-state basis within five years from completion
Completion is subject to the normal conditions for a transaction of this type, including regulatory approvals and is expected to complete in the summer of 2012
bwin.party today announces that it has agreed to sell Ongame, its business-to-business (‘B2B’) online poker network, to Shuffle Master, Inc (‘Shuffle Master’) for a total cash consideration of up to €29.5 million. The agreement is consistent with the Group’s stated strategy and follows its announced intention to sell Ongame on 30 June 2011.
Contingent consideration will become payable by Shuffle Master in the event that online poker becomes regulated in the United States within five years of completion. The amount payable in these circumstances will depend upon the timing of the commencement of legalised online gaming in the US. The transaction is subject to the normal terms and conditions for a transaction of this type as well as certain regulatory approvals and is expected to complete during the summer of 2012 with a back-stop date of December 2012. The management of Ongame will transfer with the business and the net sale proceeds will be used for general corporate purposes.
Information on Ongame
Ongame Network Ltd (‘Ongame’) is one of the world’s largest B2B poker providers. The global network includes more than 25 of the e-gaming industry’s strongest brands and operators. Ongame also operates regional networks in France and Italy. The company offers both operators and their players a wide variety of cash games and tournaments to choose from. Further information about Ongame can be found at www.ongame.com.
For the six months to 31 December 2011, the unaudited adjusted EBITDA[1] of Ongame was €0.04 million and as at 30 June 2011 Ongame had unaudited gross assets of €26.6 million.
Commenting on today’s announcement, Jim Ryan and Norbert Teufelberger, the Co-CEOs of bwin.party, said:
“The sale of Ongame represents a further significant step in our process of integrating bwin and PartyGaming and moving to a single technology platform. We believe Shuffle Master will be an excellent home for Ongame to maximise its future potential.”
Gavin Isaacs, Chief Executive Officer of Shuffle Master, said:
“Ongame is one of the world’s leading online poker networks with a state-of-the-art technology platform. It is an excellent strategic fit with Shuffle Master and our interactive gaming business. Following completion, we will focus on building the existing business in Europe as well as looking for growth opportunities in the rest of the world.”
bwin.party was advised by McQueen Limited.
Sale of Ongame to Shuffle Master...
About bwin.party
bwin.party digital entertainment plc (LSE: BPTY) is the world’s largest listed online gaming company. The Company was formed from the merger of bwin Interactive Entertainment AG and PartyGaming Plc on 31 March 2011. Incorporated, licensed and regulated in Gibraltar, the Group also has online poker licences in France and Italy. With offices in Europe, India, Israel and the US the Group generated total pro forma revenue of €814.0m (H1 2011: €398.0m) and pro forma Clean EBITDA of €193.2m in 2010 (H1 2011: €81.9m). bwin.party operates one of the world’s largest online poker networks, www.PartyPoker.com and also owns the World Poker Tour. The Group’s scale, proprietary poker software, online gaming platform and strong portfolio of games collectively differentiates its customer offer from those of its competitors. bwin.party is a constituent member of the FTSE4Good Index Series, which identifies companies that meet globally recognised corporate responsibility standards.
About Shuffle Master
Shuffle Master, Inc. is a leading global gaming supplier committed to making gaming more fun for players and more profitable for operators through product innovation, and superior quality and service. The Company operates in legalized gaming markets across the globe and provides state-of-the-art, value-add products in five distinct categories: Utility products, which include automatic card shufflers and roulette chip sorters; Proprietary Table Games, which includes live games, side bets and progressives; Electronic Table Systems, which include various e-Table game platforms; Electronic Gaming Machines, which include video slot machines; and newly introduced iGaming, which features online versions of Shuffle Master’s table games, social gaming, and mobile applications. The Company is included in the S&P Smallcap 600 Index.
Website Network
Media Man Int
Media Man
Media Man Entertainment
Casino News Media
Global Gaming Directory
PartyCasino.com PartyPoker.com
Profiles
Bwin.Party Digital Entertainment PartyCasino.com PartyPoker.com World Poker Tour Casinos United States World Casino Directory Global Gaming Directory
PartyPoker And PartyCasino Owner bwin.party Digital Entertainment Plans Return to US Market...
Online gambling firm bwin.party are set to return to the US poker market after almost six years away following their application for a gaming licence with the Nevada Gaming Control Board.
The Gibraltar-based company – which owns online poker room PartyPoker – have submitted their application to add their name to an ever-growing list of firms showing massive interest in taking advantage of the expected legalisation of online poker in the USA.
Bwin.Party Digital Entertainment plc was formed in March last year following the merger of Bwin Interactive Entertainment AG and PartyGaming plc to create the world’s largest publicly traded online gambling company that is now listed on the London Stock Exchange.
PartyGaming Left US Market in 2006
This merger came almost five years after PartyGaming took the decision to suspend all real-money games in the USA, before then exiting the market three days after the US government’s passing of the Unlawful Internet Gaming Enforcement Act (UIGEA) back on September 29, 2006.
In April of 2009, PartyGaming decided to reach a settlement with the US Department of Justice (DoJ) in which they agreed to pay a $105 million penalty over four years as part of a non-prosecution agreement for providing online gambling to American customers before the UIGEA was passed.
As an element of the agreement, PartyGaming put its name to a “statement of facts” in which it admitted that, before October of 2006, they had aimed to attract American citizens that resulted in the processing of transactions “contrary to certain US laws”.
This deal ensured that PartyGaming were not prosecuted and also made sure that they could return to the US market if – and when – new laws are put in place to regulate all internet gambling in the North American nation.
Partnership Provided Opportunity to Return
Bwin’s merger with PartyGaming last year also paved the way for the new company to partner with Nevada-based gaming firms Boyd Gaming and MGM Resorts International late last year in what was considered an “anticipatory” move ahead of the hoped-for legalisation of online gambling in the States.
The venture has resulted in bwin.party owning 65% of the company as they provide and maintain the software for both gaming businesses, while MGM – which also runs hotels – holds 25% and Boyd Gaming just 10%.
Boyd Gaming and MGM have previously applied for licences with the Nevada Gaming Control Board to operate as online poker providers.
PartyPoker Still World’s Second Biggest Poker Room
PartyPoker had been the world’s biggest internet poker brand – if based on their number of players and cash game revenue – before pulling out of the US market, although it still holds the position as the second biggest behind PokerStars.
While Jim Ryan, bwin.party’s chief operating officer, recently told media that the joint venture is unlikely to see them regain the 50% share PartyPoker enjoyed before the introduction of the UIGEA, he does expect to see a “very meaningful liquidity pool” in what will be a highly competitive market.
Stay tuned as well follow up the story.
6 March 2012
bwin.party digital entertainment plc
(‘bwin.party’ or the ‘Company’)
Sale of Ongame to Shuffle Master
Highlights:
Sale of Ongame, a leading B2B online poker network, to Shuffle Master for up to €29.5 million on a cash-free and debt-free basis
Initial consideration of €19.5 million payable in cash on completion, subject to a post-completion working capital adjustment
Further consideration of up to €10.0 million payable in cash in the event that regulated online poker commences in the United States on either a federal or intra-state basis within five years from completion
Completion is subject to the normal conditions for a transaction of this type, including regulatory approvals and is expected to complete in the summer of 2012
bwin.party today announces that it has agreed to sell Ongame, its business-to-business (‘B2B’) online poker network, to Shuffle Master, Inc (‘Shuffle Master’) for a total cash consideration of up to €29.5 million. The agreement is consistent with the Group’s stated strategy and follows its announced intention to sell Ongame on 30 June 2011.
Contingent consideration will become payable by Shuffle Master in the event that online poker becomes regulated in the United States within five years of completion. The amount payable in these circumstances will depend upon the timing of the commencement of legalised online gaming in the US. The transaction is subject to the normal terms and conditions for a transaction of this type as well as certain regulatory approvals and is expected to complete during the summer of 2012 with a back-stop date of December 2012. The management of Ongame will transfer with the business and the net sale proceeds will be used for general corporate purposes.
Information on Ongame
Ongame Network Ltd (‘Ongame’) is one of the world’s largest B2B poker providers. The global network includes more than 25 of the e-gaming industry’s strongest brands and operators. Ongame also operates regional networks in France and Italy. The company offers both operators and their players a wide variety of cash games and tournaments to choose from. Further information about Ongame can be found at www.ongame.com.
For the six months to 31 December 2011, the unaudited adjusted EBITDA[1] of Ongame was €0.04 million and as at 30 June 2011 Ongame had unaudited gross assets of €26.6 million.
Commenting on today’s announcement, Jim Ryan and Norbert Teufelberger, the Co-CEOs of bwin.party, said:
“The sale of Ongame represents a further significant step in our process of integrating bwin and PartyGaming and moving to a single technology platform. We believe Shuffle Master will be an excellent home for Ongame to maximise its future potential.”
Gavin Isaacs, Chief Executive Officer of Shuffle Master, said:
“Ongame is one of the world’s leading online poker networks with a state-of-the-art technology platform. It is an excellent strategic fit with Shuffle Master and our interactive gaming business. Following completion, we will focus on building the existing business in Europe as well as looking for growth opportunities in the rest of the world.”
bwin.party was advised by McQueen Limited.
Sale of Ongame to Shuffle Master...
About bwin.party
bwin.party digital entertainment plc (LSE: BPTY) is the world’s largest listed online gaming company. The Company was formed from the merger of bwin Interactive Entertainment AG and PartyGaming Plc on 31 March 2011. Incorporated, licensed and regulated in Gibraltar, the Group also has online poker licences in France and Italy. With offices in Europe, India, Israel and the US the Group generated total pro forma revenue of €814.0m (H1 2011: €398.0m) and pro forma Clean EBITDA of €193.2m in 2010 (H1 2011: €81.9m). bwin.party operates one of the world’s largest online poker networks, www.PartyPoker.com and also owns the World Poker Tour. The Group’s scale, proprietary poker software, online gaming platform and strong portfolio of games collectively differentiates its customer offer from those of its competitors. bwin.party is a constituent member of the FTSE4Good Index Series, which identifies companies that meet globally recognised corporate responsibility standards.
About Shuffle Master
Shuffle Master, Inc. is a leading global gaming supplier committed to making gaming more fun for players and more profitable for operators through product innovation, and superior quality and service. The Company operates in legalized gaming markets across the globe and provides state-of-the-art, value-add products in five distinct categories: Utility products, which include automatic card shufflers and roulette chip sorters; Proprietary Table Games, which includes live games, side bets and progressives; Electronic Table Systems, which include various e-Table game platforms; Electronic Gaming Machines, which include video slot machines; and newly introduced iGaming, which features online versions of Shuffle Master’s table games, social gaming, and mobile applications. The Company is included in the S&P Smallcap 600 Index.
Website Network
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Media Man
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Casino News Media
Global Gaming Directory
Saturday, March 10, 2012
DMG Music launches with Nova's Red Room at The Star, Sydney
Profiles
Sydney Australia Radio Music The Star Media Companies World Casino Directory
DMG Music, DMG Radio Australia’s innovative new music division, launched Nova’s Red Room at The Star in Sydney today.
The first event, hosted by Nova’s Fitzy & Wippa, featured Jessie J in her only Australian performance for an Australian media outlet, alongside Gym Class Heroes, Professor Green & Tinie Tempah. Together, it is the cream of Future Music Festival’s stellar line up. They all performed live at the first event for Nova’s Red Room, an intimate live lounge performance space residing in The Star.
Nova’s Red Room is the first major initiative from DMG Music delivering intimate live music experiences featuring local and international artists performing exclusively for Nova listeners.
Fitzy & Wippa will interviewed the artists live from Nova’s Red Room in front of industry partners and selected ticket winners. These interviews and performances will be played back across the Nova Network nationally and on novafm.com.au. Guests at the event were entertained throughout the night by She can DJ winner DJ Minx.
Tony Thomas, Group Marketing Director at DMG Radio Australia said, “Nova’s Red Room will change the landscape for touring artists, to become the regular side show of choice. It will give artists an opportunity to perform to their biggest fans, in an exclusive, intimate setting.”
DMG Radio Australia set up a new division ‘DMG Music’ headed by Jocelin Abbey, former Universal Music Label Manager, to develop and commercialise music events and content across the Nova Network. With DMG Radio’s unparalleled access to artists, look out for a number of big events and experiences to launch in the next 12 months
Brett Robinson, Future Music’s Festival Director, has partnered with Nova for the Red Room launch event: “Nova is committed to live music and the Red Room is a great new initiative for the music industry. In light of our great line up, we are excited to be launching the first Nova Red Room with the artists from the Future Music Festival.”
Websites
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The Star
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Eva Rinaldi Photography Flickr
Eva Rinaldi Photography
Music News Australia
Media Man News
Website Network
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Media Man
Media Man News
Media Man Entertainment
Sydney Australia Radio Music The Star Media Companies World Casino Directory
DMG Music, DMG Radio Australia’s innovative new music division, launched Nova’s Red Room at The Star in Sydney today.
The first event, hosted by Nova’s Fitzy & Wippa, featured Jessie J in her only Australian performance for an Australian media outlet, alongside Gym Class Heroes, Professor Green & Tinie Tempah. Together, it is the cream of Future Music Festival’s stellar line up. They all performed live at the first event for Nova’s Red Room, an intimate live lounge performance space residing in The Star.
Nova’s Red Room is the first major initiative from DMG Music delivering intimate live music experiences featuring local and international artists performing exclusively for Nova listeners.
Fitzy & Wippa will interviewed the artists live from Nova’s Red Room in front of industry partners and selected ticket winners. These interviews and performances will be played back across the Nova Network nationally and on novafm.com.au. Guests at the event were entertained throughout the night by She can DJ winner DJ Minx.
Tony Thomas, Group Marketing Director at DMG Radio Australia said, “Nova’s Red Room will change the landscape for touring artists, to become the regular side show of choice. It will give artists an opportunity to perform to their biggest fans, in an exclusive, intimate setting.”
DMG Radio Australia set up a new division ‘DMG Music’ headed by Jocelin Abbey, former Universal Music Label Manager, to develop and commercialise music events and content across the Nova Network. With DMG Radio’s unparalleled access to artists, look out for a number of big events and experiences to launch in the next 12 months
Brett Robinson, Future Music’s Festival Director, has partnered with Nova for the Red Room launch event: “Nova is committed to live music and the Red Room is a great new initiative for the music industry. In light of our great line up, we are excited to be launching the first Nova Red Room with the artists from the Future Music Festival.”
Websites
Nova FM
DMG Radio Australia
The Star
Jessie J
Future Music Festival
Eva Rinaldi Photography Flickr
Eva Rinaldi Photography
Music News Australia
Media Man News
Website Network
Media Man Int
Media Man
Media Man News
Media Man Entertainment
DMG Music launches with Nova's Red Room at The Star, Sydney
Profiles
Sydney Australia Radio Music The Star Media Companies World Casino Directory
DMG Music, DMG Radio Australia’s innovative new music division, launched Nova’s Red Room at The Star in Sydney today.
The first event, hosted by Nova’s Fitzy & Wippa, featured Jessie J in her only Australian performance for an Australian media outlet, alongside Gym Class Heroes, Professor Green & Tinie Tempah. Together, it is the cream of Future Music Festival’s stellar line up. They all performed live at the first event for Nova’s Red Room, an intimate live lounge performance space residing in The Star.
Nova’s Red Room is the first major initiative from DMG Music delivering intimate live music experiences featuring local and international artists performing exclusively for Nova listeners.
Fitzy & Wippa will interviewed the artists live from Nova’s Red Room in front of industry partners and selected ticket winners. These interviews and performances will be played back across the Nova Network nationally and on novafm.com.au. Guests at the event were entertained throughout the night by She can DJ winner DJ Minx.
Tony Thomas, Group Marketing Director at DMG Radio Australia said, “Nova’s Red Room will change the landscape for touring artists, to become the regular side show of choice. It will give artists an opportunity to perform to their biggest fans, in an exclusive, intimate setting.”
DMG Radio Australia set up a new division ‘DMG Music’ headed by Jocelin Abbey, former Universal Music Label Manager, to develop and commercialise music events and content across the Nova Network. With DMG Radio’s unparalleled access to artists, look out for a number of big events and experiences to launch in the next 12 months
Brett Robinson, Future Music’s Festival Director, has partnered with Nova for the Red Room launch event: “Nova is committed to live music and the Red Room is a great new initiative for the music industry. In light of our great line up, we are excited to be launching the first Nova Red Room with the artists from the Future Music Festival.”
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DMG Music, DMG Radio Australia’s innovative new music division, launched Nova’s Red Room at The Star in Sydney today.
The first event, hosted by Nova’s Fitzy & Wippa, featured Jessie J in her only Australian performance for an Australian media outlet, alongside Gym Class Heroes, Professor Green & Tinie Tempah. Together, it is the cream of Future Music Festival’s stellar line up. They all performed live at the first event for Nova’s Red Room, an intimate live lounge performance space residing in The Star.
Nova’s Red Room is the first major initiative from DMG Music delivering intimate live music experiences featuring local and international artists performing exclusively for Nova listeners.
Fitzy & Wippa will interviewed the artists live from Nova’s Red Room in front of industry partners and selected ticket winners. These interviews and performances will be played back across the Nova Network nationally and on novafm.com.au. Guests at the event were entertained throughout the night by She can DJ winner DJ Minx.
Tony Thomas, Group Marketing Director at DMG Radio Australia said, “Nova’s Red Room will change the landscape for touring artists, to become the regular side show of choice. It will give artists an opportunity to perform to their biggest fans, in an exclusive, intimate setting.”
DMG Radio Australia set up a new division ‘DMG Music’ headed by Jocelin Abbey, former Universal Music Label Manager, to develop and commercialise music events and content across the Nova Network. With DMG Radio’s unparalleled access to artists, look out for a number of big events and experiences to launch in the next 12 months
Brett Robinson, Future Music’s Festival Director, has partnered with Nova for the Red Room launch event: “Nova is committed to live music and the Red Room is a great new initiative for the music industry. In light of our great line up, we are excited to be launching the first Nova Red Room with the artists from the Future Music Festival.”
Websites
Nova FM
DMG Radio Australia
The Star
Jessie J
Future Music Festival
Eva Rinaldi Photography Flickr
Eva Rinaldi Photography
Music News Australia
Media Man News
Website Network
Media Man Int
Media Man
Media Man News
Media Man Entertainment
Casinos Of The World: Land Based And Online, Casino Awards By Media Man And Casino News Media
Sin City Cleopatra Rambo The Godfather Sinatra The Terminator Thor Saturday Night Fever Unicorn Legend Palladium Slot
Punters, here's 10 of the world's top land based casinos for you to mark down in your travel plans.
Monte Carlo, Monaco: Perched above the Mediterranean and bounded by the French
and Italian coastlines on either side, Monaco provides a spectacular and luxurious setting for the wealthy and the wannabees. Home to the Monaco Grand Prix and the legendary Casino de Monte Carlo, this isn't the place for those on a tight
budget. The magnificent Casino hosts the annual European Poker Tour and was also the scene of several James Bond Films, including the original "Casino Royale" and "Golden Eye".
Paradise Island, Bahamas: Located just off the shore of the city of Nassau, Paradise
Island is best known for its sprawling 'Vegas-by-the-sea' resort, Atlantis. The resort spans seven acres along a lagoon, where guests can soak up the Caribbean sun and choose from a variety of outdoor gaming areas. When in need of a break from
the tables, guests can enjoy the private beach or one of the resorts 20 sunlit pools.
Melbourne, Australia: As Australia's sporting and entertainment capital, Melbourne
offers the perfect option for high rollers looking for a local break. Aussies need look no further than Crown Casino on the southern bank of the Yarra River, which is one of the largest casino complexes in the southern hemisphere. The main gambling
floor stretches more than half a kilometre and the casino was the first to introduce the new game Rapid Roulette, which allows players to place bets on a personal electronic touch screen connected to a central roulette wheel.
Macau, China: Known as the 'Monte Carlo of the Orient,' and the gambling capital of Asia, Macau now rivals Monaco and Las Vegas as one of the premier gambling destinations in the world. With no less than 33 casinos, in addition to local horse and greyhound racing venues, Macau is perfect for the betting junkie. The Wynn Macau
casino is a standout, highlighted by 24-carat gold 'Tree of Prosperity' at the entrance, extravagant water displays and Moon Jellyfish Aquarium at reception.
Baden-Baden, Germany: Situated on the western foothills of the Black Forest and on
the banks of the Oos River, Baden-Baden is not your typical casino town. However, in addition to its hot springs and picturesque countryside, the town is also known for its 200-year-old 'Spielbank' casino - the oldest of its type in Germany. With French chateau-style salons rooms named after historical figures such as Madame Pompadour and Louis XV's mistress, the quirky casino provides visitors with a very unique
gaming experience.
Las Vegas, United States: With over 1700 licensed casinos in operation, Las Vegas
offers the ultimate package for travellers who fancy a flutter. A visit to the famous 'Strip' is a must for any player, whether they're looking for a spin on the roulette table or a game of blackjack - this city has it all. The iconic Caesar's Palace
hotel and casino offers 129,000 square feet of casino space plus an endless smorgasbord of entertainment, shopping and fine dining options, including Cleopatra's barge, a floating lounge perfect for a relaxing drink after a jam-packed night on the
casino floor.
Manila, The Philippines: With a favourable exchange rate, Manila provides great value
for Aussies wanting to live the high-life overseas. The city offers a range of shopping and entertainment options, along with a world-class casino at the Hyatt Hotel. Spread across three levels, the sparkling casino offers the newest in gaming
facilities for both hotel guests and visitors, and is just a short distance from Manila's tourist hub.
Sun City, South Africa: Known as 'Africa's Kingdom of Pleasure,' this luxury resort
and casino complex, just two hours from Johannesburg, boasts two large casinos, two 18-hole golf courses and a wildlife reserve. At the extravagant yet picturesque Palace of the Lost City, guests are treated to stunning valley views from the guestrooms, along with exclusive access to the Grand Pool. The nearby Sun City Casino is the entertainment Mecca of the resort, featuring a myriad of gaming options as well as an indoor jungle of native foliage and water fountains.
Atlantic City, United States: Regarded as the US's 'Las Vegas of the East', Atlantic City in New Jersey is renowned for its gambling, shopping and fine dining. Towering above the banks of the Atlantic Ocean, the Trump Taj Mahal casino is an icon of the city, with an on-site shopping district and an abundance of restaurants and bars. The
157,000 square-foot casino is also hard to miss, with 3,500 slot machines and 200 table games. Unveiled in 1990 by a number of celebrities, including the late Michael Jackson, the casino is the second-largest in Atlantic City and well worth a visit.
Genting Highlands, Malaysia: Nestled on the Titiwangsa mountain range, just an hour's
drive from Kuala Lumpur and 6,000 feet above sea level, the Resorts World Genting offers 360-degree views of the surrounding countryside. This spectacular resort has first-class accommodation, dining and entertainment, while avoiding the hustle and bustle of a capital city. The on-site casino, which covers 200,000 square feet, is Malaysia's sole gaming venue and is divided into separate themed areas, such as Hollywood and Monte Carlo, for the ultimate gambling experience.
Online Casinos:
PartyCasino.com : The world's leading online casino brand and part of Bwin.Party Digital Entertainment. Play for free or play for money at PartyCasino.com New players get up to $3000 sign up bonus via Media Man.
VirginCasino.com : Virgin Casino is part of Virgin Games. The parent company is Virgin Enterprises Limited, the creation of the world's most famous and celebrated entrepreneur, Sir Richard Branson. Unfortunately the casino does not accept players from many countries due to what is known in legal circles as "grey areas". Most European players can play, but no Americans, Canadians, Australians or New Zealanders.
Captain Cooks Casino : Was once a very popular online casino with Australians and New Zealanders, however we understand these days they can only accept players from a few regions such as Europe, South Africa, Canada and South America.
PKR : Once only a 2D online poker room, they are now more 3D and offer online poker and a good range of online casino games, including classics, Marvel slots and table games.
Media Man's top online casino choice: PartyCasino.com PartyCasino is a multi-time Media Man 'Online Casino Of The Month' winner and have also won awards from EGR. Earlier this year PartyGaming merged with Bwin to create the worlds leading igaming company, Bwin.Party Digital Entertainment.
News
Playtech Signs Gala Coral Contract, Acquires Mobile-Bet Company...
Playtech Ltd, the Internet gambling software maker and content developer which has a joint venture with William Hill Plc (WMH), said it signed a long-term contract with Gala Coral Group Ltd., and acquired Mobenga AB, a mobile-phone sports-betting company.
Playtech will pay as much as 15.8 million euros ($22.4 million) for Mobenga, the Isle of Man-based company said in a statement. Playtech also said second-quarter revenue rose 7 percent to 39.6 million euros over the same period a year earlier, led by online casino games.
Gala Coral, which has 2,000 betting shops in the U.K. and Italy, should become one of Playtech’s top three clients within a year after its software is transferred, in 2012, Playtech’s Chief Executive Officer Mor Weizer said in a telephone interview. Mobenga will help Playtech expand in mobile telephone gambling, which generates 30 percent of bets for some companies, he said.
“This is a very important win for us,” Weizer said. “We already have most of the established operators in the U.K., and Gala Coral we were after for a long time.”
Playtech gained 18.25 pence, or 5.4 percent, to 356.75 pence at 8:47 a.m. in London, after earlier rising as much as 6.3 percent. The shares have fallen 16 percent so far this year, giving the company a market value of 866.3 million pounds.
Stockholm-based Mobenga will give Playtech the ability to combine sports-betting, casino and poker games in one mobile- phone application, Weizer said.
Playtech generates more than 10 million pounds ($16.1 million) from its biggest client, Imperial E-Club Ltd., Weizer said.
‘Players’
Most of the company’s clients attract players through sports, though they make most of their money through games, so they’re always seeking to convert sports betters to game players, he said.
Second-quarter casino revenue gained 9 percent to 27.3 million euros, and bingo sales increased 32 percent to 3.6 million euros, the company said.
Poker sales dropped 32 percent to 5 million euros, the company said. The poker business declined even though the U.S. charged founders of online poker companies still accepting games in the country with money laundering in April.
Weizer said the companies still had cash to lure poker players. Poker numbers have been “picking up” since the end of June, when one of the companies stopped play, he said. Full Tilt Poker, then the world’s second-biggest poker site, lost its license from Alderney on June 29.
PartyCasino Gets New Games...
Aztec Gold, Atomic Fruit, Nag's To Riches and Fairies Forest. Check out the new games here.
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