As to why Tom might have a soul debt to Twinkie the Kid, I have no idea. It’s just one of those absurd ideas that come to me at the end of the week and there you have it. I suppose I could have done something a little more in tune with a pirate theme to celebrate the release of Pirates of the Caribbean: Dead Man’s Chest… but that would have been too easy!

Reviews from critics are coming back mostly negative, which is surprising considering how many of them rallied around the first film. Their complaints seem to echo their thoughts about Superman Returns. Primarily, it’s too long. Personally, I think that’s the weakest cop-out excuse in the critical handbag. I mean, when you’re in a movie you don’t like, extra length can feel like torture. But if you can put yourself in the shoes of the average audience member who’s really into this kind of stuff, how could MORE ever be a bad thing?

Roger Ebert once said something about the length of movies never being a detriment. I can’t find the exact quote, though. By the way, Rog – get well soon.

At any rate, early audience reaction seems to be very favorable. I’ve talked to a few people who have been to midnight screenings or are friends with theater managers and they love the flick up and down. So it sounds like the perfect summer popcorn flick. Personally, I can’t wait to see it.

A  little site news. Don’t forget about the $9.99 t-shirt sale we’ve got going on right now. It lasts until the end of the month. I’m trying to clear out a little inventory before I go to Wizard World Chicago on August 4 – 6.so I won’t feel guilty about not bringing the full bredth of my schwag.

By the way, if you still want to order a copy of "Theater Hopper: Year One," I’m still accepting them. Place your order now. That way, it’s one less book I have to lug to Chicago. Who knows? I might not have very many when I come back! I’ve already pre-sold about half of the first printing. If you get your order in now, I’ll be sure to set a copy aside for you before I hit The Windy City!

Not much else for the moment. Talk to you soon!