AWN Headline News

At a press conference held in Los Angeles, California, today (May 17, 2005), Sony Computer Entertainment Inc. (SCEI) revealed the outline of its PlayStation 3 (PS3) computer entertainment system, incorporating the world's most advanced Cell processor with super computer like power. Preparations are under way for launch of PS3 and new generation software in the spring of 2006. Prototypes of PS3 will also be showcased at E3, the world's largest interactive entertainment exhibition held in Los Angeles, from May 18-20.

This years 2005 VES-VFX Festival of Visual Effects kicks off June 24-26 at the newly renovated Aero Theatre in Santa Monica, California, with a lineup that includes behind-the-scenes looks at STAR WARS: EPISODE III REVENGE OF THE SITH, BATMAN BEGINS, MADAGASCAR, SIN CITY, BEWITCHED, LORDS OF DOGTOWN, CSI, LOST and ALIAS.

The newest Acrobat edition of Animation World Magazine is now online and this time around covers pitching and development. Sarah Baisley outlines some of the basic concerns when pitching for sub-contracting work. Christopher Panzner looks at how independent producers have to be a vertically-integrated individual as well as a little of a cowboy to survive in the industry. Jan Nagel write two articles one deal with the rules of the pitching game and the other dealing with the essentials of a show bible.

The Jim Henson Co. is in the planning stages for a sequel to its 1982 fantasy cult classic, DARK CRYSTAL, reports VARIETY. David Odell (THE MUPPET SHOW) is writing THE POWER OF THE DARK CRYSTAL along with Annette Duffy. No director has been announced as of yet. Odyssey Ent. will worldwide sales for the film.

The film will combine live action, animatronic characters and CG animation and is set to start filming this fall. The film will be available in the early part of 2007.

France's most successful movie franchise ASTERIX THE GAUL will return to the big screen, reports VARIETY. The last effort to bring the franchise back a Viking-themed installment was turned down by the original ASTERIX cartoon books rights holders. Now Thomas Langmann (BLUEBERRY) has devised a new script ASTERIX AT THE OLYMPIC GAMES with director Frederic Forestier attached.

WIA will be holding its annual Salon to celebrate the work of a veteran animator on June 18, 2005. This year the organization is celebrating the career of Margaret Loesch.

Toon Boom Animation announced that Algonquin College has chosen Toon Boom Harmony as part of its three-year Animation program. Algonquins program provides students with training in both traditional and digital animation. Following a first year of studies, students have the option of pursuing either traditional or digital animation. They learn the skills necessary to work effectively as animators in a variety of settings. Graduates acquire the skills necessary to work independently, collaboratively and in studio settings.