The PoP Graphic Novel's cover and Jake gets another brother

Having survived a day with a loose (not to mention cross and probably miserable) scorpion that the Royal Mail kindly delivered to us today in a mailbag, I can only sympathise with the cast and crew of The Prince of Persia who had to endure something similar at Pinewood this summer - although I think they should keep their scorpions to themselves. Everything seems PoPish at the moment. And it continues.


Having discussed yesterday the bunch of books that Disney intend to publish next April to mark the release of the film, today we got the first glimpse of the cover art for Jordan Mechner's graphic novel which will be discussed at Comic-Con this Friday. It is the work of spider-man artist Todd McFarlane. Thanks to Spawn for the picture. Looks spikey.


Todd spoke to USA Today a little about the brief 'saying he imagined Prince as light-hearted entertainment "but a little more serious" than the Pirates of the Caribbean films. "It's a big brand with a big producer," he says, "and by the way throw the word 'Disney' on top."'


There has been some disappointment that Disney isn't giving the movie itself (and Jake Gyllenhaal) a big push at Comic-Con this year. Variety has come up with an explanation for its very noticeable absence: 'Things have changed so much that some stars and filmmakers actually have to be discouraged from attending the convention when they have nothing to show or the timing interferes with the strategic rollout of the film's publicity campaign. After announcing Zachary Quinto as the new Spock in 2007, J.J. Abrams wanted to tout "Star Trek" the following year, but the studio convinced him the release was too far out. Likewise, Disney sources claim they were contemplating a big debut for Jerry Bruckheimer's "Prince of Persia: The Sands of Time" with first-time attendee Jake Gyllenhaal, but decided to follow "Trek's" example since the swashbuckling adventure doesn't open until May 2010.'


Should have known it was all Spock's fault...


Meanwhile, in other movie news, Jake has gained another brother - as if Tobey Maguire wasn't enough. The new brother is the comedian Josh Gad. Josh will play a 'vulgar but successful dot-com entrepreneur who moves in with Gyllenhaal.' I'm intrigued by what type of film this will be - a screwball comedy, a sharp satire or something blacker - or a mix? Empire is also wondering. The great news about the casting is that it means this project continues apace and there is no reason to doubt a September start.


Includes pictures from IHJ and links.

The Prince of Persia Scrolls

It's been quite a week so far - posters, magazine features, promises of lego, t-shirts, graphic novels and all with ten months still to go. The Prince of Persia rollercoaster ride is well under way - and I wouldn't be surprised if it culminates in a very real ride in Disney World in the not too distant future.


The Prince of Persia posters have created quite a buzz around the net and, despite the difficulty of pleasing gamers, Gyllenhaalics and those who want proof that PoP will not be Pirates of the Caribbean on sand, the consensus is pretty good. Except for the font... some people don't like the posters' font. I've not yet reached the stage where I even notice the font. I found this perspective interesting.


And today there's more! Never mind one graphic novel, you can expect to fill your shelves with books. We've not had all this before. First, the graphic novel by Prince of Persia creator Jordan Mechner: 'The 128-page graphic novel, a full-color action-adventure anthology featuring six original stories, is a prequel to "Prince of Persia: The Sands of Time," the feature film to be released by Walt Disney Pictures and Jerry Bruckheimer Films on May 28, 2010. The Prince of Persia graphic novel anthology will publish in April 2010 simultaneously in hardcover and paperback with a 125,000 first print run.'

But Disney announced today more treats await us: "We have developed a fantastic publishing program for the Prince of Persia film release and this graphic novel is an incredible cornerstone." So, what's on the way?


1. The Making of Prince of Persia (13 April, 176 pages) 'When Walt Disney Pictures and Jerry Bruckheimer Productions unite to create a movie, the result is bound to be epic, magical, and full of adventure. In Prince of Persia: Sands of Time, Oscar-nominated actor Jake Gyllenhaal (Brokeback Mountain, Rendition, Zodiac, Jarhead, Donnie Darko) stars as a young prince who must prove his innocence with the reluctant help of a conquered princess. As he searches for a dangerous artifact that has the potential to prevent the unleashing of an Earth-shattering sandstorm, he'll face deceit, betrayal, and treacherous, black-cloaked Hassasins. This beautifully designed narrative will describe in detail every aspect of the movie-making process, from casting to costumes to computer graphics.'


'Author Michael Singer takes readers on an extraordinary journey, recounting the links in the Prince of Persia chain-from the wildly popular video game to a film project spearheaded by one of the world's most successful producers, Jerry Bruckheimer. A veritable oasis of exclusive photos and insider information, the book includes information on the production, makeup, location filming, stunts, and special effects, as well as profiles on the films' incredible stars!' (note to Santa - I need have no other gift for the next 15 years...)


2. Prince of Persia: Young Dastan (published 13 April, 256 pages). 'Dastan, the reluctant hero of the upcoming film Prince of Persia: The Sands of Time, was not always a prince. He was once a mischievous petty thief, who knew the streets and rooftops of Persia better than any other street urchin. This is the story of young Dastan, before he was adopted by the king and became Prince of Persia!'


3. Prince of Persia: Movie Storybook (13 April, 48 pages). 'A young prince (Jake Gyllenhaal) is framed for the murder of his beloved father, the king of Persia. Now he must prove his innocence with the reluctant help of a conquered princess (Gemma Arterton) and a magic dagger that can reverse time. A 48-page retelling featuring dozens of action-packed pictures from the soon-to-be-hit, Prince of Persia.' Admittedly, this book is aimed at 4-8 year olds but who's counting?


4.The Art of Prince of Persia (13 April, 176p). 'The Art of Prince of Persia presents a definitive, exclusive look into the preparation and production of the epic movie. Overflowing with hundreds of full-color images, the book showcases concept drawings, set designs, and costume sketches, as well as the intricate props, set pieces, and even special effects that contribute so much to the Persia mythology. For Persia fans everywhere, this oasis of art and design is a visual feast that promises hours of endless browsing pleasure.' Never mind Persia fans...


5. Prince of Persia: You are the Princess (13 April). 'In the film, The Prince of Persia: The Sands of Time, a young prince (Jake Gyllenhaal) must prove his innocence with the reluctant help of a conquered princess (Gemma Arterton) and a magic dagger that can reverse time. In this book, the reader is the main character. The books are written in second person and allow the reader to choose the protagonist's path-- for good, or ill!'


6. Prince of Persia: Junior Novel (13 April, 144 pages). 'When a young prince (Jake Gyllenhaal) is framed for the death of his beloved father and the king of Persia, he must prove his innocence with the reluctant help of a conquered princess (Gemma Arterton) and a magic dagger that can reverse time. The junior novel is a retelling of the film and will include an eight-page full-color photo insert with pictures from the film.'

7. Prince of Persia Ultimate Sticker Book (Ultimate Sticker Books) (15 March). I'll take a dozen of these.


8. Prince of Persia: Beaneath the Sands of Time (13 April). 'Dr. Morgan is about to journey into the hidden world of Persia. On an archeological dig, he uncovers a hidden side of Persia that leaves him breathless. Lucky for us, he has written it all down. Now with this handy guide, including maps, interactive elements, and all the essential information fans can take their own trip to the mythical land of Persia. Find out how the sands of time originated; learn how our hero went from a poor street urchin to Prince Dastan; find out the mythical and wonderous world known as Persia . . . and more! Full of astonishing and amazing information, The Hidden World of Prince Dastan offers fans an intimate glimpse into this magical and adventurous world!'


9. Prince of Persia: You are the Prince (13 April). 'In the film, The Prince of Persia: The Sands of Time, a young prince (Jake Gyllenhaal) must prove his innocence with the reluctant help of a conquered princess (Gemma Arterton) and a magic dagger that can reverse time. In this book, the reader is the main character. The books are written in second person and allow the reader to choose the protagonist's path-- for good, or ill!' (I'll go for good - with a little bit of naughty).


10. Prince of Persia: The Adult Guide to the Prince. 'Go beneath the armour to bathe the wounds of the heroic prince in a scented pool, whilst being gently fanned by eastern silks, buffeted by a soft desert sunset breeze.' This book will be available (when I've written it...)


And surely there'll be a Pop-Up PoP? No?

Includes pictures from IHJ, Empire and ComingSoon. Plus a camel.

[Updated] Defy the Future! Prince of Persia posters released! And Jake Gyllenhaal over the moon...

Empire has today published the first two posters for the Prince of Persia, featuring a stunning, powerful Jake Gyllenhaal as the prince and, on the other poster, Gemma Arterton as the feisty Tamina. We are told to expect more in the September issue of Empire, plus a set visit report.



Meanwhile, more from EW via ET.


Update: ComingSoon now has the Ben Kingsley poster - and it's not a little scary...


On with the moon post!

As we reflect on the fortieth anniversary of the moon landing, one is reminded yet again of those immortal and legendary few words, taught in every school across the land: 'What would have happened if Neil Armstrong had gone all the way to the moon and then never stepped on the surface?' (Jimmy Livingston's Dad). Imagine it, indeed. If it had not been for the events of July 20 1969, we may not now be having to endure the wait to see if Doug Liman really will require Jake Gyllenhaal to pick up where Armstrong left off and colonise the moon.


As night follows day, the moon pops up with appropriate regularity in Jake's career, and it is only a matter of time before we see him fully decked out in a spacesuit and in a spaceship (aliens optional). At one point, Jake's name was one of those bandied around to play the great man, Neil Armstrong, himself. Jake has many qualifications to play a space role, as befitting an actor who once said that he wanted to be an astronaut (as well as a policeman and fireman) until the age of 12 (when he decided he wanted to be a bird instead - note the air theme).


Jake has persistently chosen films solely for their lunar names - Moonlight Mile and Unnamed Moon Project, to name but two.


Jake has been finetuning his spacelook over the years - beginning with a makeshift but very bouncy bubble suit. Indeed, when wearing the bubble, Jimmy was asked if he was some kind of astronaut: 'No, I'm some kind of bubble boy', he replied.


Even in early medieval Persia, Jake refuses to do away with his moonboots.


Jake is not afraid of venturing down wormholes and through cracks in the spacetime continuum, having gained considerable experience of time travel as Donnie Darko.


Donnie Darko also prepared Jake for those moments when one might encounter, unexpectedly, giant talking alien rabbits.


Jake has demonstrated calmness and remarkable coolness in the event of sudden gravity loss.


Despite protestations of being no good at mathematics or nuclear physics or quantum mechanics or dinosaur anatomy, Jake has shown that he's very handy to have around when you need a rocket in a hurry.


In readiness for the the One Small Step, Jake has practised planting the flag on slagheaps.


Includes pictures from links, IHJ and Jake Gyllenhaal's I Wanna be an Astronaut scrapbook.

You too can fill your house with Mini-Jakes... (and the PoP set)

Jake Gyllenhaal may not himself be attending Comic Con next week in San Diego (or is he?) but Mini-Jake is. Not only will Prince of Persia t-shirts and tie-in graphic novels be unveiled and wanted at the show, but there will also be the first look at Lego's PoP figures. I think I need to post this again...


And it's not just mini Prince Dastans and Evil Viziers that will fill up our mantelpieces, shelves, work surfaces, car dashboards, office desks and TV tops, we'll also be able to get the whole set in lego format. Admittedly, the entire Prince of Persia set in lego format will take a little more room, and you do have to build the thing, but who needs furniture when you can have your very own medieval citadel in your living room, complete with your very own mini Jake Gyllenhaal parkouring up its walls? Essential for 2010.

I'm also looking forward to the (un)dressable doll with full accessories.


As for Big Jake, he's been spotted a couple of times this weekend - out shopping with Atticus at the Wagging Tail pet's boutique on Montana Avenue in Santa Monica. Hopefully, whatever Jake bought for Atticus, it was coordinated.


Jake was also spotted at a Coldplay concert in LA. When I hear of Coldplay and Jake together I am always reminded, not of Gwyneth and Proof, but of the time I heard of Jake's vanishing act during the filming of The Day After Tomorrow when he sneaked off to see Coldplay.


And finally...

It's great to see Peter Sarsgaard getting more publicity, this time for the scary movie, Orphan. Here is an interview with the cast, in which Peter reveals he is a fan of the horror genre. Gulp. There are also some new publicity photos from the film.


Includes pictures from IHJ and links.

First official portrait of Jake Gyllenhaal as the Prince of Persia

Entertainment Weekly has the first official photograph of Jake Gyllenhaal as Dastan, Prince of Persia. It's a beauty.


EW reports: '"I'm tired of taking myself so seriously," says the actor, who found himself sword-fighting, climbing walls, and jumping off of buildings as part of the prince's quest to find an enchanted dagger and turn back time. "It's nice when a stuntman turns to you and is like, 'Actors don't normally do this.'"

Meanwhile, a possible clue to the Prince of Persia's appearance at San Diego's Comic-Con next week is that a number of Twitters saw Jake in the Disney offices in LA yesterday.

Source.

We have merchandise... PoP treats, sounds and back to the 60s

We have PoP merchandise! Well, not quite yet... but we will, and soon. The weekend after next Comic-Con descends on San Diego and, while the Prince of Persia movie is currently missing from the Disney schedules, it is missing in a tantalising way. As in a hide behind the sofa and leap out at the birthday girl yelling 'Surprise!' kind of way. What we do know is that goodies associated with the movie will be popping up and dancing seductively in front of our open wallets.


First off, we have The T-shirt. Twelve exclusive and closely guarded t-shirts will be unveiled for the discerning Comic-Con crowd. And the good news is 'The collection also includes classics from Mighty Mouse and a new design for the Spring 2010 Disney movie, "Prince of Persia".' Tempted as I am by a Mighty Mouse classic, I would need to have a PoP t-shirt for each day of the week. It's hard to imagine an occasion (or a pair of shoes) that a Jake Gyllenhaal t-shirt woudn't suit or match. The shirts will be available at the event but they will also be available, in limited numbers and at limited times, from Stylinonline. Keep watching...


And then we will have The Book. Jordan Mechner, the creative genius behind the Prince of Persia franchise, will be attending Comic-Con a week on Friday to discuss his new project, a second graphic PoP novel. However, as Jordan says on his blog, this book will not be about the game prince, 'the Disney book is firmly in the universe of the movie. It offered a chance to establish, and expand on, the characters’ world and back stories beyond what’s in the film.'

'The book is a prequel to the movie (I use the word “prequel” advisedly, for those who think time is like a river that flows swift and sure in one direction), with each chapter drawn by a different artist in a different style. It’ll be published next April as part of the Prince of Persia movie pre-launch.'


Jake and Reese didn't just attend a Hollywood Bowl concert last weekend, on the Friday they were seen at a much more low key event - a gig in Ojai to launch a CD, Granada Doaba, by Californian and Spanish hiphop band Gnawledge. They bought the CD and you can download the album here. Canyon Cody, a member of Gnawledge, took a picture of their famous guests that night.


And finally...

After yesterday's post, which included the new poster for An Education, I'm thrilled to see the trailer today. This film looks amazing - and at last I can hear Peter Sarsgaard's English accent again.



Includes pictures from IHJ and links.

At the movies - Jake and Reese see Bruno and a poster for An Education

The day after the night before, a couple of sleepyheads were seen at Beverly Hills' AMC theatre yesterday evening. It seems that Jake Gyllenhaal and Reese Witherspoon were among a number of well know people who chose to see Bruno, which might explain the facial expressions. I wonder what Jake bought at Bose... Many thanks to IHJ for the pictures.





Talk of An Education

Brothers is being regularly listed now as a contender for the coming award season. However, it is not the only film being discussed which is of interest. I'm delighted to see that Peter Sarsgaard's An Education is also getting some buzz and it too now has a poster. Its other star is Carey Mulligan, who also has a role in Brothers, tightening the connection.


Going off topic again...

I stumbled across another filmset today, not once but twice. Despite reports that the recession had killed off ITV's classy detective drama Lewis, the offshoot of Inspector Morse, I can definitely attest to the contrary. Lewis had taken over one ofOxford's scenic colleges, drawing quite a crowd of tourists. At lunchtime I saw Warren Clarke, a much loved and famously grumpy-looking UK character actor...


... and in the evening saw Laurence Fox - Lewis' sidekick, son of James Fox and husband of a very lucky Billie Piper. I watched the filming standing next to the creator of Inspector Morse, Colin Dexter - an unassuming and very modest gentleman. This was a thrill for me as I've read every single one of his novels.



A reminder of the previous time I saw filming for Lewis in Oxford.








Includes pictures from IHJ, links and WDW.