You all have great opinions and I agree with many of you… I think it would be very, very, very smart for them to focus on Thundera for the first season. this would give it more time to focus on other characters beside Mumm-ra and the whole sort. It would give them the ability to make each season focus on different aspects of the Thundercats mythos! It’s a very exciting time for us Thundercats fans, and the more I think and read about it, the more excited I get! Unfortunately, I don’t have cable… but we’ll see.
That is awesome news. I can’t wait for the new series. If there is any that deserved a revival, its Thundercats.
And Larry Kenney coming back as Claudis? That’s pretty cool to me.
Can’t wait. I hope its good!
This is great news! And since they’ve already done voice work
for it, I’m less likely to believe that production will be “Put on hold”
I wholeheartedly agree. Aside from the obvious superhero motif, sleek costumes showcase sleek bodies, and a mindset (and reminder) of physical fitness that is so important now that children are not getting proper exercise, and given the general obesity problem in the U.S..
Sure, some may think leotards or tights are dated or too 80’s, but given our own military is moving more and more towards bodysuits, “tech doping suits”, and other skintight garments, there’s a tactical feature as well:
As much as I love fan art, I have to admit I’m never thrilled with redesigns that feature flowing capes, loose clothing, or bulky armor. All of that stuff can be more easily grabbed or snagged compared to something flitting close to the skin. With the Thundercats focusing on melee or close range combat over ranged, their attire not only needs to be tight and flexible to conform to the physical demands of their bodies and exaggerated movements (like gymnasts), but also be tactically sound and not easily manipulated by their enemies.
ThunderCats Reboot
Long time since I’ve actually made a post in the site, but with this exciting news, I just felt I had to put in my two-cents worth.
With the concept of the ThunderCats taking place mostly in Thundera and Claudus, the [previous] Lord of the ThunderCats, I must say, this is definitely better than the rumored ThunderCat Rock Band concept. The idea of Lion-O as the frontman of a rock band honestly does NOT sit well with me one bit.
However, I will say, I do hope that their character designs stay true to the originals. I recall seeing concept art for Lion-O on a previous thread, regarding a similar topic.
If the design is much like the concept was in that previous thread, it’s doable. Not a preferred choice, but doable. [See Attached image for a reference]
I for one have full confidence in WB with the ThunderCats property. Up to this point they’ve proceeded with extreme caution, recognizing the importance of staying true to the brand.
Most certainly they know they will NOT be able to please everyone. Carrying on the ThunderCats legacy unavoidably involves change or introduction to new elements beyond the scope of the original series. The Stones of Power happen to be one of those elements.
Having said that, I have a hunch these stones will play a similar role that the Dragons Balls and/or Chaos Emeralds play and won’t be surprised if the Eye of Thundera happens to be one of those ‘Stones’.
As a diehard ThunderCats fan, I’m very pleased even satisfied with the limited details released in the announcement. The Stones of Power could be a risky make or break element being introduced, but I have full confidence in WB’s ability to execute the concept flawlessly.
Stones of Power
I can see the Stones of Power being much like the Dragon Balls/Chaos Emeralds, however, I can see them being of significance, like the Book of Omens was towards the end of the original series. I can also see them unlocking powers to whoever possesses them.
I personally don’t have much confidence in WB when it comes to Thundercats, mostly due to the way they handled the DVD release of the series. However the fact that they scrapped the movie and went with a new cartoon series instead and brought in Larry Kenney has restored a lot of that confidence. I am very hopeful that this new series will be a great one for both old and new fans.
As far as the Stones of Power; I would love a story line where the Eye of Thundera has been lost or destroyed and the only hope of forging a new Eye is to acquire the stones of power. If the storyline takes place pre-third earth, then the same could be applied. The stones are needed to create the original Eye of Thundera for use in the Sword of Omens. I think that would be a great way of incorporating the stones into the mix.
We could have many different enemies or a “tribes” of warriors in possession of stones which the Thundercats would either have to defeat, or prove their worthiness in order to acquire the stones. In the case of a group of individuals whom are not necessarily evil but doubt the Thundercats authenticity and wont just hand over the stone, it could end up being much like the Trials episodes in the original series where Lion-O would have to surpass a test in order to gain the peoples respect thus receiving a stone.
New series storyline
[FONT=Calibri][SIZE=4]The new series can pick up from three different yet vital stages of the Thundercats’ story arc as it is laid down so far. Depends on what the writers have in mind and for how long the production is willing to expand the scenario as well as the seasons.[/SIZE][/FONT][SIZE=4]
[/SIZE] [FONT=Calibri][SIZE=4][FONT=Calibri]1) [/FONT][/SIZE][/FONT][FONT=Calibri][SIZE=4]I am not sure if it would be wise to start retelling the story once again, beginning from the destruction of Thundera, the imminent arrival in Third Earth and Lion-o’s gradual ascension as Lord of the Thundercats. I understand absolutely and wholeheartedly support the idea of attracting younger generations, but the upcoming 2011 series shouldn’t be demoted simply to a “remake” boasting only impressive graphics. This move wouldn’t do credit to the Thundercats universe neither present new elements to refresh it, something that so desperately the franchise needs after remaining dormant for such a long period. Actually, if you think about it the present set of writers must be having a really difficult time setting down the scenario and contemplating towards the steps in the right direction. The original plot is so well said and methodically developed that it hasn’t left any major gaps to call into question or unriddled crucial issues that need to be further analyzed. Of course I am referring to the critical moments in the Thundercats chronicles like the arrival in Third Earth, the return and reconstruction of Thundera, the origin of their power and their arch-nemesis, instead of some few unanswered but not primary questions concerning for instance the sudden emergence of Hammerhand back from the dead or the survival and return of Grune. The initial group of writers were so talented and did such an exemplary job putting down the facts in the correct order and cohesion that after 25 years the turning points in the history of the show have been engraved in our memory for good. Each episode had a unique importance standing either on its own or in connection with the previous and the following (that was even more obvious admittedly in the second season) as opposed to the majority of the cartoons nowadays who are suffering from meaningless storylines which fade into insignificance as the years go by making it easier for each new writer to start from scratch. In Thundercats case this tactic can’t be applied and much as we are going to be introduced to thrilling new things the basic points have already been placed. And this can’t be changed. Saying the story anew would be very intriguing for the younger audiences, furthermore the old fans will have the chance to remember it once again from a modern perspective this time but on the other hand it is necessary to bring a breath of fresh air to enrich and why not, differentiate it from the original 130 episodes.[/SIZE][/FONT][SIZE=4]
[/SIZE] [FONT=Calibri][SIZE=4][FONT=Calibri]2)[/FONT] [/SIZE][/FONT][FONT=Calibri][SIZE=4]In my opinion, it would be better if the new series sets off right after the end of season 1. Up to that point, the main story is around in the middle and it hasn’t covered a lot of ground as far as the Thundercats’ future plans in Third Earth are concerned. The pivotal past events can be explained in lengthy flashbacks and by this way the inexperienced viewer will fall directly in the thick of things, furthermore it is a clever suggestion in order to make an impressive head start, to link in the storyline process from an early point the addition of the three new Thundercats to the Exodus and the ensuing events. [/SIZE][/FONT][SIZE=4]
[/SIZE] [FONT=Calibri][SIZE=4]The largest part and central concept of season 1 apart from Lion-o’s maturity process, was the survival of the 6 nobles in a foreign planet and their step by step establishment as fair rulers in the dangerous region. This general idea doesn’t have to be explained and can be taken for granted in the new series as well as the unity of the Thundercats team. [/SIZE][/FONT][SIZE=4]
[/SIZE] [FONT=Calibri][SIZE=4]The main advantage of season 2 which is strongly accentuated at those episodes is the sci-fi aspect without losing thought the fantasy elements. The introduction of powerful and deadly enemies possessing advanced technology like the Lunatacs or Two-Time, even the Ancient Spirits of Evil took on a more drastic role, the often space travels between different planets and the profusion of various kind of weapons and vehicles for both sides, the good and the evil, attest to that. This can be emphasized to a greater extent exploiting the stunning battle scenes and the hi-tech animation available will contribute to represent it even more faithfully.[/SIZE][/FONT][SIZE=4]
[/SIZE] [FONT=Calibri][SIZE=4]3 ) As it has been officially confirmed, Larry Kenney will reprise his voice role, this time as Lion-o’s father, if that happens and apparently it wouldn’t be just for one or two episodes the possibility of continuing the story in New Thundera after the final episode Book of Omens seems very likely. One theory capable of occurring is that Lion-o has entered the book of omens to train with the guardians and get the wisdom to lead New Thundera into renaissance but Mumm-Ra’s spell (as we learn from the last volume of Wildstorm’s mini-series Reclaiming Thundera) which didn’t stop time while he was away and kept him trapped inside the book for several years, awakens Claudus who is sensing the danger and given that he survived the destruction of Old Thundera being captive to Shadowmaster, returns to take things under his control and prevent Mumm-Ra from seizing Thundera now that the Lord of Thundercats is absent. Unless, if Claudus decides to join the team in ethereal form alongside Jaga and provide help by warning the Thundercats. Personally I’d like to see a reunion between father and son or better, the ex and current leader of Thundercats. With Claudus present the new series will reach a higher level of maturity and a lot of mysteries will be unveiled regarding the culture of Old Thundera that we are all so eager to learn. Besides, some of the best parts in the original series were when the story was travelling us back in time and interesting informations were revealed about the history of Thundera and Third Earth. However, it is important for the new writers to keep in mind that Lion-o is the center of attention and the story should concentrate around him, he was the only character present at all of the 130 episodes; likewise he should be the chief protagonist throughout the new series. Another point if they finally choose to go on from there, is that the revived New Thundera as we see it in the last episode is completely restored and ready to be populated once again by the Thunderian refugees entailing that the peaceful planet will start to get congested anytime soon and consequently the story might lose focus on the Thundercats team. On the other hand, there is the benefit of freely taking the story to uncharted routes embarking on totally new Thundercats adventures even if their civilization is returned to its prime. It’s up to the writers’ creative imagination. [/SIZE][/FONT][SIZE=4]
[/SIZE] [FONT=Calibri][SIZE=4]Many fans have expressed their disagreement about the Mutants’ presence and whether they should be included or not, indeed the mutants were predictable and sometimes weren’t the ideal enemy, but undoubtedly their overall existence is closely connected to the Thundercats. I think they could be appearing in fewer episodes but with more sophisticated actions and make Vultureman or Rataro their new permanent leader.[/SIZE][/FONT][SIZE=4]
[/SIZE] [FONT=Calibri][SIZE=4]Last but not least here are some classic scenes I wish to see reiterated and I believe the entire fans do too. The moment when Lion-o is using the sword to signal the others exclaiming “Thunder, Thunder…..HO!!” and the famous line with the sword framing his eyes “Sword of omens, give me sight beyond sight”. I’d love to see an intro bestowing equally the dynamic style; I am saying this because hardly there is ever going to be an opening conveying so much energy and impact, maybe they could remake the original with upgraded graphics. It was so good that they can keep it the same[/SIZE]…[/FONT]
I read someone above (can’t remember who and I’m not going to quote, but it was just a few posts up) saying they thought maybe the Eye of Thundera could be one of the Stones of Power. I’m sorry but to me that diminishes the relativity and ultimate power of the Eye. If the Eye was just one stone, then why would Mumm-Ra have been so obsessed with it throughout the entire series when he could just go and get another equally as powerful stone? That simply wouldn’t work as an idea, sorry to say.
I do however like the idea also from a post above slightly better that the Stones of Power could have or would somehow be used to forge the Eye of Thundera. That at least doesn’t ruin the mythos of the Eye like I think the speculation of the Eye being one of the stones.
If they don’t want to alienate 90% of old Thundercats fans they have to realize that the Eye of Thundera is the ultimate power in that universe. You start messing with that, and you’ll have a lot of angry Thundercats fans (me being one of them) abandoning the show.
I agree, the Eye of Thundera should remain the be all and end all of power in the storyline. At least on Thundera / New Thundera.
I could however see myself liking a storyline where there is an all new all powerful evil out there that the Thundercats are facing (or soon to face) and they need the Stones of Power in order to “enhance” the Eye, giving it even more power. That of course would have to take place on New Thundera (Post original series).
Also, I wonder if they will be writing the new series taking the Wild Storm comics into consideration, or if they will pretend that never happened?
I couldn’t agree with you more. I never said it was a good idea, just that I wouldn’t be surprised…
Speaking of alterations, I’m hoping the Sword of Omens and Claw Shield remain unchanged.
That could work, if they enhanced it. It would need to be something in conjunction with the Eye though.
Whatever this concept is…I really really hope they give them some other name besides the “Stones of Power”. That sounds so generic and stock. For all of the corniness that was in the Dragonball sagas, the “Dragon balls” concept gave those orbs an identity, and was a great choice for a name. Maybe too late at this point since they are already creating episodes…but I really hope so. I’m not entirely against the concept, but the name is just…they sound like they could be involved in any of a hundred shows…not distinct to Thundercats.
What if the Sword of Omens was called the “Sword of Power”. At least everything was Omens in the show. Why not the Stones of Omens? Ok so maybe we have too many “Omens” artifacts already, but come up with something more creative than the “Stones of Power”
That being said, still intrigued by the promo art and its dark and edgy look so I’m still excited, hoping we hear more at SDCC.
2011 will be the new 1985 (confirmed new Transformer & G.I. Joe shows on the new channel The Hub this fall, Thundercats, and now a new Voltron show on Nicktoons).
A lot of things have been said about the “stones of power” and it seems this phrase has become the center of attention, it might be just a simple cathcy phrase to promote the new story. My theory is that the stones of power must be somehow related to the prevention of New Thundera’s destruction. Otherwise, why the Thundercats would “battle the forces of evil in the quest for the fabled Stones of Power” as the press release pointed out? As we all know the Thundercats have their own source of power which can be used only by them so what is the reason of searching for another? and opulence had never been the Thundercats trait. Unless, if these stones are the only way to stop once again the destruction of New Thundera by geological or unknown forces. If you remember the last episode when Panthro and Lion-o unlocked the Book of Omens, the Guardian told them in order to save the planet they ought to present the 4 Artifacts found from the Treasure of Thundera, to different places. Likewise, the Stones might be having a similar importance, besides when the pieces of the Treasure where scattered around Thundera by Mumm-Ra the Thundercats didn’t retrieve them all. If that’s the case, it strengthens my belief as i mentioned in my previous post, that the New series will continue right after the original episode 130. Many things could happen.
In my perfect world, the series takes place after episode 130. I doubt it is in reality. It’s cool that it’s being made, and ill watch it since it is based on my favorite show, but it’ll probably be a new beginning based on the thundercats, and not connected to the original series. I hope they keep Snarf! And I hope its based on the sword of omens, even tho mumm-ra learned he could not use the sword, it didn’t stop him from wanting to destroy it. Time will only tell, I will hope for the best with the rest of you.
Chris here…
Rumours have begun to surface about who Panthro’s voice actor might be - check out this article here: http://networkedblogs.com/4I5sO . 
To quote the article:
A source in the industry has confirmed that the Thundercats show is currently holding casting sessions. We got two names on who is trying out for Panthro. One of which is a Star Trek alumni and another belongs to the horror/fantasy genre. We will post more once we hear confirmation of casting!
I’m going to take a wild guess that the Star Trek name in the frame would be Michael Dorn, who played Worf in both Star Trek: The Next Generation and Star Trek: Deep Space Nine. To stay true to the spirit of Panthro from the original show the voice actor would possibly need to be an African-American (which Dorn is), plus I know that Michael Dorn is no stranger to voice acting in animated series, having been a guest voice on several shows including the 1990s Fantastic Four cartoon!
Michael Dorn on IMDB: http://www.imdb.com/name/nm0000373/
Take care…
Hey Chris this is great news. Dorn would make a great Panthro voice! Here is an interview with him: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Uc72P1SgCwA
:panthro:
I would totally support Michael Dorn as the voice of Panthro. In fact that would be fantastic! Panthro needs to come across as calm and collected, and I think Dorn’s voice brings that to the table.
I also believe the new series should take off right where the original one ended. We all know the writers had a season 3 in mind when writing the last few episodes of season 2.
The reason I brought up the Wild Storm comics is mainly due to the fact that Bengali is shown to be killed. If they do, I wonder how they will go about bringing the new fans up to speed on his death and how he died?
I’m TOTALLY behind Michael Dorn for Panthro! What a great choice!!! Also, am I the only one who’s hoping for LESS Berbils? 
Chris here…
I’d also be totally behind Michael Dorn for Panthro, although bear in mind that I am only speculating - however, I would be overjoyed if Dorn did portray Panthro, not just because I think his voice would be perfect, but also because, as well as being a ThunderCats fan, I’m also a massive Star Trek fan! 
Take care…