Gotham After Dark

The New 52

2012-01-30T10:04:00.002-05:00

How did online sales and collected editions factor into what books to cancel? Also, will the collected editions change to reflect the full runs of the cancelled books?

The New 52: The DC Logo

2012-01-23T10:49:00.000-05:00

Why wasn't the new DC logo ready for the launch of The New 52? How do you like the logo?

Save The Good Guys

2011-01-23T12:12:00.003-05:00

This is a great show. Let's get it back. Sign the petition!

http://www.petitiononline.com/TGGF0319/petition.html

Steve Rude Needs You!

2010-10-23T04:17:00.000-04:00

http://www.bleedingcool.com/2010/10/06/save-steve-rudes-house/

News You Use from Comics Alliance

2010-10-06T00:05:00.002-04:00

The slow death of the industry?

http://www.comicsalliance.com/2010/09/16/retailers-399-comics/

Cons

2010-08-28T09:28:00.001-04:00

Who was the genius that scheduled the Baltimore and Dallas Comic Cons on the same weekend?

HeroCon Part 1

2010-06-13T22:24:00.005-04:00

(Top left) The Gaijin Studios Gang; Karl Story, Cully Hamner and Brian Stelfreeze. (Top Right) Chris Moreno and his painting of the Thing. (Bottom Left) Oracle and Batman.

Didja Read This Yet?

2010-02-28T19:46:00.003-05:00

Amazing Spider-Man #616-622 - The Gauntlet

#616 - Sandman kidnaps a child, and it up to Spidey to save her.

#617 - The original Rhino is on the straight and narrow path and teams up with Spidey to face off against the upgraded Rhino.

#618 - New York City's population just grew with the returns of Mysterio, Silvermane, forensics officer Carlie Cooper's father, and Aunt May, fresh off of her world tour honeymoon. A gang war is erupting between Mr. Negative's gang and Silvermane, with Hammerhead's loyalties stuck in the middle.

#619 - A man dies at Spidey's hands, or so he thinks. Aunt May finally comes home with a new attitude to a destroyed home. Mysterio continues with the mind screw.

#620 - Silvermane vs. Mr. Negative! Dragon's Breath targets Spidey. Ray Cooper has a get rich quick scheme and wants to include Carlie. Another villain on the horizon shows his "face".

#621 - Spidey and Black Cat break into Mr. Negative's place to retrieve the vial of blood the Dragon's Breath that was engineered to kill him was made from. Carlie confronts her father on his money-getting scheme. Mary Jane Watson gets a roommate.

#622 - Black Cat sells Spidey's blood, and Peter has to go undercover into the goth community to retrieve it. This leads to a meeting with Morbius and his former love. A backup story featuring Flash Thompson is included.

Overall, The Gauntlet isn't moving me. It just seems like a vehicle for revamping Spider-Man's old villains, either giving them new motives or introducing new characters in old or upgraded costumes. Either way, it just isn't working. The flow of the book is off with the balancing act of various writers and artists. If I had to pick, I would love to see Marcos Martin and Paolo Rivera splitting the duty as artists and Joe Kelly being the writer. I did enjoy Michael Lark's pencils on #621, as well as Fred Van Lente's Morbius story.

But it's still just not enough to keep my attention nor worth the time in reading. The group in place is hitting all of the right keys for the character, but we have heard this song enough times now.

Justice League: Crisis on Two Earths

2010-02-26T10:44:00.001-05:00

What did you think about this movie?

Calling All Dallas Comic Fans!

2010-01-26T08:54:00.002-05:00

This weekend is the Dallas ComicCon January 30-31, 2010.

http://www.scifiexpo.com/DCC/dallascomiccon.html

See you there!

Didja Read This Yet?

2010-01-04T20:51:00.002-05:00

Daytrippers #1
Everyone has expectations, whether set by themselves or forced upon by others. Sometimes we live up to them, rarely we exceed them, most of the time we don't meet them. The pressure of living up to an expectation is worse when growing up under a parent that's successful and attempting to follow in their footsteps. The only comic book examples I can think of are the Kubert boys (Adam & Andy) and John Romita, Jr. Meet and exceed for both families. Oh yeah, Leah Moore (daughter of Alan) and Joe Hill (son of Stephen King). Time will tell, but so far so good with them also. But here's the neat thing about expectations; they can be changed. They can be tweaked, or done away entirely for new ones. Your expectations, your life, your rules. That, and tomorrow, if you're lucky, is another day for meeting your expectations. This daunting task is the balancing act being worked on by Brás de Oliva Domingos, the main character in this tale.

You see, Brás' father is a famous writer. Brás is a writer as well, of newspaper obits. Not exactly the route that his father took towards stardom. And that's also not saying that he's not trying, but at the same time Brás is fighting a case of writer's block. While stepping out of an award ceremony honoring his father, life changes drastically for Brás.

A very interesting premise with a cliffhanger that I am eager to find out the conclusion of in issue #2, all complemented with enjoyable art and coloring. The writing and art duties are the handiwork of Fábio Moon (Casanova) and twin brother Gabriel Bá (Umbrella Academy).

A great start to what should be a compelling and thought provoking series. I might just drop Amazing Spider-Man in order to pick this up. Quality over quantity, gang.

Didja Read This Yet?

2010-01-02T01:08:00.006-05:00

JSA All-Stars #1
So let's see if I get this straight: An older, established team of superheroes goes about boosting their ranks by seeking younger like-minded do-gooders in search of guidance. But the old ways of tackling crime don't work as well in the new millennium, causing the young'ins to break rank and and form a splinter team under a grizzled, battle-tested leader. They'll have a few battles, catch some bad guys, destroy some property, and eventually end up in a head-to-head clash between the old guard.

Where have I read this before?

Now, let me say that I am not the Leonard Maltin of comic-book critiquing, seeing as how my body of comic knowledge doesn't extend into the deep, historical archives of DC Comics Silver-Age heroes and their offspring. I go as far back as early-to-mid 80s and I am more preferential to the crime, street-level hero types with a serious bias towards Marvel's stable of writers and characters. But my friends that are "old DC heads", guys that will rattle off history with impeccable accuracy at a drop of a 40-something writer's pen ret-conning 60's throwaway writings, enjoy the JSA stories by Geoff Johns. So, what do I do? I give the new spinoff book, JSA All-Stars, a shot, thinking that I could have something to talk to them about in their wheelhouse. I did, and I'm done.

That's it. No more. No less. It's Rob Liefeld's Cable-led X-Force. It's a first issue showcasing a new team. Familiar territory. They get into a skirmish with an army of baddies that will have greater repercussions in later issues, you see the human side of certain members, talking about their personal insecurities that may have greater impact in later issues, you get a brief tour of their headquarters/crib, which will probably be infiltrated somewhere in later issues. Writing by numbers. The standard template for a new team book is all there, except for the shadowy, mysterious team member with the questionable past that will have greater repercussions in later issues.

Not a good issue. Not a bad issue. Not enough for me stick around to find out what happens next. EVEN with the hopes of Power Girl having a nip slip by letting her uniform get blown up and shredded twice in this issue, it's just not enough.

Speaking of which, who does Power Girl tailoring; the seamstress at that works for the WWE? There must be some serious quadruple-stitching going on in and around that circle of cleavage, or as I like to call it, her mammary symbol. Who needs help from someone with an 'S' on his chest, or a bat, when you can call on 2 Ds? And I don't mean Daredevil.

DVD Review: G.I. Joe Resolute

2009-12-24T22:19:00.003-05:00

For the Joe fans over 30: This is the movie that you created as a kid, using your room as the playset; that blanket and those couch cushions as mountain terrain and desert/ocean/North Pole in the hunt for the Weather Dominator!

Fact 1: Warren Ellis wrote the screenplay.

Fact 2: People actually DIE in this!

Fact 3: Snake Eyes vs. Storm Shadow!

Didja Read This Yet?

2009-12-24T21:05:00.003-05:00

Avengers The Initiative #31
As a kid, I was always fan of Taskmaster. To me, he was my horrible attempts at sketching superhero characters brought to 22-page life. Gloves with fins, cool weapons (shield, sword, and sometimes axe), pirate boots, and a cape with a hood! His powers to mimic any fighting style presented to him and retain through his photographic reflexes were what I aspired to be growing up. Well, that and a professional Jai-A-Lai player, but that's another story. Sure, he looks like Deathstroke crapped into a spare Captain America suit, but you can't deny that he has a certain coolness factor. With that type of power and a strategic mind, he can go toe-to-toe with most lower powered heroes. It also keeps him in demand and out of prison. Hell, he was paid by the government to train one of Steve Rogers' replacements as Captain America.

A merc and trainer for pay throughout his career, he is now the supervisor/trainer at Camp H.A.M.M.E.R., the basic training grounds for the 50-state hero initiative that has supplanted lower-rung villains in place of lower-rung heroes for nation-wide protection; with further sinister implications, being run under Norman Osborn.
And from the looks of it, Taskmaster has been doing a great job. So well, in fact, that Osborn hand picks him for a seat at the new Cabal table for the next phase to maintain Osborn's reign. Tasky joins not only Osborn, but the revitalized Hood, Orlando-gender-bending Loki (read LXG: The Black Dossier), and Dr. Doom.

Finally, A call-up to the pros! And not done by Bendis. (no disrespect, he is the Grant Morrison of Marvel, but give someone else a chance to bring back their favorite childhood heroes. Challenge, bendis: make Rocket Racer cool.) But stepping into that spotlight brings about questions of a philosophical nature that could make you question yourself and your place at the table. The answers for Tasky, and yourself, might surprise you.

Really strong issue, great character building, nice tie-in to the upcoming Siege, and oh yeah, lots of hooking up.

What did you think of this issue? Comment.

A-Alikes

2009-12-24T20:46:00.002-05:00

JG Jones' Final Crisis Supergirl and actress Megan Goode. Megan's most recent movies (that are actually good): Waist Deep, and Brick.

What do you think?

A-Alikes

2009-12-24T20:19:00.004-05:00

I truly enjoy Stuart Immomen's artwork in any and every book he's on. He can draw me the characters from Sweet Pickles and let Warren Ellis write it and I'll buy it religiously.

Something that I noticed though - doesn't Stuart's version of Luke Cage resemble actor Terry Crews? The star of television show Everybody Hates Chris, but best known for his roles in White Chicks, Dodgeball, and The Longest Yard, and Luke Cage in the issue 60 of New Avengers, bears a striking resemblance.

Personally, if John Singleton is really interested in doing a Luke Cage movie, Tyrese is not the way to go. Terry Crews or Henry Simmons (NYPD Blue) would be the best choices, physically. Or the first choice in the Avengers movie.

Comment and tell me what you think.

Thank You DC!

2009-12-22T23:41:00.001-05:00

Take a look and tell us what you think.

http://www.comicbookresources.com/?page=article&id=24141

Wizard World Philly 2009, Part 2

2009-10-25T16:54:00.006-04:00

More pics from the convention.

The original cover art pages of the Watchmen series.

Ticket taker, zombie bride, and an unsuspecting Lantern Core member that wore the wrong type of ring to the con.

Fishnets.

Artist Phil Jiminez signing copies of Infinite Crisis.

Bank robber Joker in full effect!

Black Manta.

Explain to me, how the hell does he see out that thing? His head apparently ends where the mask's neck is located. In most artists's renditions, this is an accurate image. How does Black Manta see? Is the helmet like a periscope? I wonder.

Very original costume, I must say.

Halo Master Chief.

Jim Cheung, artist of Young Avengers, sketching Black Canary for a fan.

Wonder Woman.

Battlestar Galactica's Edward James Olmos.

Phillip Tan, artist of New Avengers, Daredevil: The List, Batman and Robin

Legned Alert! Walt Simonson, writer/artist of Thor, signing a copy of X-Men/The Titans crossover book. Great artist, great guy.

Joe Kelly, writer of Deadpool, Amazing Spider-Man, Bad Dog, I Kill Giants.

Emma Frost, not in diamond form. It is Philly, after all.

Cobra Commander and the Baronness taking a moment from hunting for the second piece of the Weather Dominator (and for the rare mail-away Zartan figure from the '80s that changed color in the sunlight and tasted really bad) to pose for a pic.

Wizard World Philly 2009

2009-10-25T14:55:00.007-04:00

Here are pictures from June's Wizard World Philadelphia Comic-Con! It was a wonderful opportunity to meet the greats of the comic book industry, and discover what may be the future funny book writers and sketchers and tracers and colorers. And people in costumes everywhere. And . . . booth babes!

Enjoy the pics.

Howard Chaykin, the legend, holding a Wolverine Skrull commission sketch he drew at the con, and at the same time, telling you a story through his eyes.

JG Jones, artist extraordine on the Final Crisis saga and Wanted series.

Amanda Conner, one-half of comic book royalty, signing one of her early works, Vampirella.

Alvin Lee, artist of Street Fighter for Udon, is a name that you should get familiar with. Here he is with a commission sketch of Akuma. He also designed and sketched his own haircut also.

Alex Maleev, artiste du jour of the magnificent Brian Michael Bendis run on Daredevil, here posing with a commission sketch of Daredevil, Skrull form, on the exclusive Secret Invasion sketch cover issue.

Garth Ennis, creator of the hit book Preacher, orchestratd the return to glory for the Punisher, writer of countless books that will disturb your sleep, including the Battlefields sagas, Hellblazer, Wormwood and Crossed, here signing a commission sketch of Preacher's Jesse Custer and Herr Starr for a fan.

Ennis' partner-in-crime, artist Steve Dillon, showing off his work, a Bullseye sketch for a fan.

Legendary artist, Kevin Maguire, best known as the man that can make a superhero cringe - by drawing them cringing. And doing it very well. Here he's signing a Justice League trade paperback.

Amanda Conner's other half, The Jimmy Palmiotti. Writer. Artist. Inker. Plumber. CPA. Shaman. Master of Gymkata. If you pull 5 random books from your collection right now, at least 2 of them Palmiotti has done something on them. He may have stapled the book. Here he is looking a sample of Wednesday comics #1: 3 weeks before it released.

Jim Calafiore with his Batgirl #1.

There is more to come, including . . . Booth Babes!

Harvey Award Winner Bryan J.L. Glass

2009-10-14T22:50:00.004-04:00

Showing off at the Baltimore Comic Con.

Dallas Comic Con

2009-08-17T21:32:00.005-04:00

Here are some pics from the fun:

On the right, Brian Stelfreeze (artist/painter for Shadow of the Bat, Birds of Prey, Final Crisis Aftermath: Ink, and Wednesday Comics) shows off his Joker art.

And on the left, Mitch Breitweiser (Artist of Captain America: The Chosen, Captain America: Theater of War, Drax The Destroyer, Sub-Mariner 70th Anniversary Special) shows his Ms. Marvel art.

Just Thinking

2009-07-11T13:13:00.000-04:00

I have a lot to say, but I can't always think of an entire article to share my thoughts with. Lately I've seen a few articles that just give you random thoughts or quick snippets of interest. I like that idea, but I've shied away from it because it felt like stealing someone's idea. Then I realized the format would be similar but the ideas are different.

Marvel Comics is kicking DC Comics ass!

The new Star Trek movie was like having an a religious moment.

I'm scared to read the Justice Society of America without Geoff Johns.

Captain America (Steve Rogers) needs to come back.

I'm looking forward to the Ed Brubaker Daredevil Omnibus.

Comics are too expensive.

I wish I'd continued 100 Bullets.

I have no idea what DC comics plan for the future is. And neither does Dan Didio.

I'm currently reading The Krypton Chronicles.

I'm ready for Green Lantern stories that don't lead to a major event.

Stuart Immomen on New Avengers... Whoo Hooo.

I miss Buffy the Vampire Slayer's TV show, but like the book.

Caprica is fantastic.

I don't get Dollhouse.

Guardians of the Galaxy is way to much fun.

I only watch TV Land, TCM and DVD's.

Howard Stern RULES!

I'm looking forward to Adventure Comics and Wednesday Comics.

I can't get enough of Newsarama.

HARRY POTTER.

I miss the Legion of Superheroes.

I miss great DC Comics animated cartoons.

How long will Naruto go on?

The Fantastic Four is still a brilliant concept but, the movies suck.

Will somebody please do something consistently interesting with Wonder Woman.

Batman and Robin!

Civil War was ok, Secret Invasion sucked, Dark Reign is mildly interesting, yet Marvel is still kicking DC's ass...hmmm

Who do you want to be?

Please retire Jason Todd, Darkseid and Superboy Prime!

Teen Titans GO! Oh and cancel that book or start writing good stories.

A question to Mr. Didio; Why bring Batgirl back if you hate her so much?

Meet Greg Rucka

2009-07-11T12:02:00.008-04:00

Greg Rucka (Detective Comics, 52, Gotham Central, Final Crisis: Revelations) was in Dallas, TX for an exclusive book signing at Zeus Comics (June 27, 2009).

A View to A-Kon 20

2009-05-31T21:29:00.005-04:00

These are some of photos from A-Kon 20 (May 29-31, 2009) in Dallas, Texas.
(Click Here)

Here are some other photos.
(Click Here)

It was a fun time.

Who Do You Want to Be?

2009-05-23T21:02:00.010-04:00

A very good friend of mine is of the firm belief that Superman sucks. I'll say it again he says "Superman sucks!" Why? I'm not too sure. When people criticize Superman it usually has something to do with his power levels or he's thought to be unrealistic. The next question is why hasn't Lois figured out who he is he? The next criticism is his villains are stupid, Jimmy Olsen sucks and again how stupid is Lois? Other common complaints range from there's no real danger, to "oh he's a boy scout", and I am embarrassed to say that I started to get worn down and yes maybe started to doubt the Man of Tomorrow myself.

Now, I've never been a huge Superman fan, my taste fall more in the Batman camp, although in my later years, I've learned that I can like them both. Stories like "What's so funny about Truth, Justice and the American Way", which asks the question ; has Superman become outdated in this modern world? We are bombarded by anti-Superman characters like Apollo from the Authority, or Wolverine who challenge us with real world solutions to superhero problems. Hell my favorite show during the seventies was Starsky and Hutch--the bad boys of police dramas, fighting the man--authority figures, handing out justice; not the law, and being rewarded for it instead of being kicked off the force.

I'm currently reading the Krypton Chronicles by TwoMorrows publication, and loving it. There are candid interviews, fun stories and insightful looks at the Superman mythology. It's during my reading of this wonderful book and the Eliot S! Maggin interview (I'll get back to this in a moment) in particular that I realized all of these people who say Superman sucks, may be stuck on stupid. By the way, this book was a gift from my friend, who made the comment (who by the way is far from stupid).

Over the decades, we have been inundated with Superman lore: the powers at be struggled to find ways to keep Superman relevant and interesting during a time when comics were falling out of favor. The goal was to appeal to a younger audience and make the stories imaginative and fun. DC comics made a point to keep track of the type of stories that sold well and regurgitated them over and over again, thereby keeping the sells up and fortifying what some say is the creative renaissance of the Superman mythology. Therefore, we were introduced to the city of Kandor, Supergirl, the Fortress of Solitude, Bizaro, Krypto, too many Kryptonians, too many versions of kryptonite, and psyche me out romance stories and imaginary tales.

Conversely, Superman's powers and the world around him have made what many believe to be an unstoppable and unapproachable character. Then I stumbled upon the interview with Elliot Maggin. Mr. Maggin makes the statement that the common mistake readers and creators make with Superman is that too many people focus on the powers and not the man. It's about the ethical and moral choices a character makes. How do you have a character with the powers of a god and have interesting, exciting stories that convey a sense of danger? You make it about the man.

We as comic readers like to look at fictional characters from a realistic point of view. So if you had Superman's powers what would you do?

OK. Let's just assume you understand the structure of a story, and the business of comics. Therefore, it's not in your best interest to have the hero win in two pages. But, we also don't want contrived stories. How many of us look at movies and second guest the heroes choices forgetting we have knowledge that the character isn't privy to or we just think they are making stupid choices? Taking all of that into account, would you kill? Would you rule the world? Would you maim or disable? ...moral choices.

Now here is the rub...you have a man with the powers of a god and he has chosen to adapt a strict moral code, to abide by laws that should not apply to him. He has decided to set an example to the world; there is a right way to do things. Someone says "I will not abuse my power or your trust" and the only thing someone can say about him is he SUCKS!

I can understand the character not being your cup of tea. But come on, this is a character who teaches you to be the best person you can be. So maybe that's not what you are looking for or maybe that's not who you are. Another friend made the statement that if he had Superman's powers, he would rob banks and have all the money he ever wanted...REALLY?

Here's my thought, imagine you have all the powers of Superman, yet you believe in the law, civil rights and the Constitution, and an honor system and a moral code...then what will you do?

This character has been around since 1938 and is possibly the most recognizable fictional character in the world. Something must be working; we live in a time where Wolverine, the Punisher, Dirty Harry and they are what we want to be.

I maintain Superman is who we should be.

Shazam!

2009-04-11T13:16:00.002-04:00

Where is the Marvel Family in the DCnU?

Best of the Past IV

2009-04-11T08:45:00.000-04:00

Ash created by Joe Quesada and Jimmy Palmiotti, published in 1994 from Event Comics.

While the stories are forgettable the art is the main draw (sorry for the bad pun). This was before Quesada became the head honcho at Marvel comics. The art is full of energy and excitement. It's unfortunate that Quesada left the art side of things to take up management, the book just kinda went into limbo. But if you want to see some of his best work this is the book to check out.

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ash_(comic)

Hero By Night - The Series

2008-11-18T22:28:00.002-05:00

Earlier we reported on this great comic by Platinum Studio Comics. Well the following story was posted on the Platinum Studios website (www.drunkduck.com):

LOS ANGELES, November 13, 2008 – IM Global a worldwide financing, sales and distribution outfit for big-budget genre movies and specialty films and Platinum Studios, Inc. (OTCBB: PDOS), an entertainment company that controls an international library of more than 5,600 comic book characters which it adapts, produces and licenses for all forms of media, announced today that they will develop a television series based on the Comic Book Challenge® winner “Hero By Night”.

Under the agreement, IM Global will handle worldwide distribution for the project and will produce Hero By Night through their IM Global Television banner run by television veteran Gavin Reardon, who brokered the deal along with the Rigberg Entertainment Group.

Hero By Night, created by 2006 Comic Book Challenge® winner, DJ Coffman, tells the story of young landlord, Jack King, who uncovers the lair of the legendary Hero by Night . Determined to make a little extra cash, Jack auctions the Hero’s journal on eBay. His plans backfire when he attracts the attention of Hero by Night’s old arch-enemy. Jack must now embrace a buried legacy to stop a madman from completing his diabolical schemes.

Platinum Studios’ Chairman and CEO Scott Mitchell Rosenberg and IM Global’s Stuart Ford and Gavin Reardon are set to executive produce the series along with Rigberg Entertainment Group’s Glenn Rigberg. Platinum Studios’ vice president of Film and TV Rich Marincic will co-produce and former Universal Pictures’ senior executive, Randy Greenberg, of The Greenberg Group, who negotiated the deal, would co-executive produce.

“We are very happy to be working with Stuart and IM Global -- Stuart is one of those rare entertainment executives who has a keen understanding of the business of entertainment and what makes for compelling entertainment,” said Rosenberg. “Hero By Night is a wonderful young adult weekly adventure series.”

“Hero By Night provides a wonderful opportunity to make action-adventure wish-fulfillment weekly television,” said Ford. “Platinum Studios’ depth of story and characters is unparalleled and presents a fantastic opportunity for IM Global and we are pleased to be working on this project with them.”

Ford's 18-month old company is currently handling international rights on a slew of high profile projects in production such as martial arts CGI actioner Bunraku with Josh Hartnett and Woody Harrelson, supernatural thriller Shelter with Julianne Moore and Jonathan Rhys Myers, psychological thriller After.Life with Liam Neeson and Christina Ricci and hotly anticipated Dreamworks frightener Paranormal Activity. The company's specialty arm IM Global Acclaim is currently also enjoying box office success with Larry Charles' Religulous.

Platinum Studios’ film and TV division has various other properties in development at major film studios, including “Atlantis Rising” at DreamWorks with Kurtzman/Orci (Transformers) set to produce, “Cowboys and Aliens” also at Dreamworks with Kurtzman/Orci partnering with Universal Pictures and Imagine Entertainment, and “Unique” at Walt Disney Pictures and “Dead of Night” at Hyde Park Entertainment with Brandon Routh (Superman Returns) starring and Kevin Munroe (2007’s TMNT) directing. Gale Anne Hurd’s Valhalla Motion Pictures and Platinum Studios are currently co-developing feature films based on the soon-to-be-published action thriller comic book Final Orbit with Russell Gewirtz (Inside Man, Righteous Kill) attached to adapt and Top Cow’s Magdalena and Platinum has partnered with Arclight Films and Battlestar Galactica director Michael Rymer to bring Top Cow’s Witchblade to the big screen.

Was Dave Stevens the Modern Master of Good Girl Art?

2008-08-27T13:55:00.003-04:00

Adam Hughes, Frank Cho and Terry Dodson are all great artists but, their styles would remind one of Dave Stevens. Dave Stevens the modern-day pioneer of Good Girl Art. The art of Dave Stevens was a homage to the early days of comic art. The "modern-day pioneer" comes from the fact it was the Dave Stevens art that inspired many of today's artists. Adam Hughes has stated the Dave Stevens influence on his art.

Dave Stevens was a great comics artist. He is famous for creating The Rocketeer as a backup story in the Mike Grell title Starslayer, from Pacific Comics. I Can remember reading The first Rocketeer Magazine and being totally blown away? It was taking a chance because it wasn't a mainstream thing. It didn't look like any comics fron DC or Marvel. It was like watching the Flash Gordon serial with Buster Crabbe. The story read like a 1930s movie with cliffhangers and great art.

Dave Stevens is not only known for his pin-up/good girl art but, his illustrations of the model Bettie Page. She was the inspiration for the girlfriend of the Rocketeer book. His illustrations of Bettie Page helped to renew interest in her and elevated her popularity.

Unfortunately Stevens passed away this past March but, not without leaving a legacy of wonderful art. And if there is any doubt about his art get yourself a copy of the Rocketeer or the book Brush with Passion: The Life and Art of Dave Stevens. The truly sad thing about his passing is the unfinished Superman/Rocketeer 1938.

The New Western Comics Renaissance

2008-06-16T01:45:00.004-04:00

Jonah Hex, The Lone Ranger, Batlash and Zorro have been successful new...well, renewed western titles. With the addition of the Man with No Name to the Dynamite Entertainment lineup, how many other companies will add western comics to their monthly offerings.

The western comics are a sub-genre of comics with its origins reaching as far back as the late 1930s. The western comics had its heyday in the 1950s, during the infancy of television. It wasn't just a passing fancy. In fact, in the book the 100 Greatest Comic Books by Jerry Weist, there are western titles on the list: Gene Autry Comics No. 1 (1941) at number 50 and the extremely rare Lone Ranger Comics No. 1 (1939, although 1938 is printed on the cover) at number 25.

According to The Comic Book by Paul Sassienie, "By 1948, Fawcett's Western Title Hopalong Cassidy was selling more than eight million copies." The Two-Gun Kid was the first Marvel western in March 1948. In January of 1948, DC released Western Comics. At the time another genre was becoming popular...Romance Comics. And in 1949, Prize Comics decided to combine romance and western with the release of Real Western Romance No. 1. Even when the 3-D Comics were the rage, western comics joined in also. Star Comics published Western Fighters 3-D in December 1953.

Westerns were brought to the forefront of American pop culture because of television. What is amazing, long after westerns disappeared from the prime time lineups of television, western comics kept coming back time and time again. For example, The Rawhide Kid had several lives starting as an Atlas (early Marvel) Comic in March 1955. With that 16-issue run ending September 1957, Stan Lee, Jack Kirby and Dick Ayers got "the Kid" going again in August 1960 (Issue No. 17). This run lasted until May 1979 but, Marvel ran mostly reprints before the cancellation as the last Marvel western. The Rawhide Kid later returned as a four-issue limited series in 1985, 2000 and again in 2002. Then the Rawhide Kid became a Marvel Max imprint five-issue limited series with the controversial "Slap Leather" storyline in 2003.

With the popularity of the new Lone Ranger, other publishers are trying western themed titles such as Moonstone's The Cisco Kid vs Wyatt Earp. Even, Dynamite Entertainment has struck gold twice with the new Lone Ranger and Tonto series. Now another generation will get to read western comics. And who knows, with the New Western Comics Renaissance maybe a western title will become the next comic book movie sensation.

Best of the Past Part III

2008-06-08T19:01:00.005-04:00

Dreadstar

Dreadstar was the first comic series published by Epic Comics, in 1982. It was centered on Vanth Dreadstar, sole survivor of the entire Milky Way galaxy, and an ensemble cast of crewmates, including cyborg sorcerer Syzygy Darklock, and their struggle to end an ancient war between two powerful, evil empires: The Church of The Instrumentality run by the Lord Papal and the Monarchy, administered by a puppet king.

The comic, created by Jim Starlin, was bimonthly during most of its run, lasting 26 episodes under Epic, was then published by First Comics, who carried it for 38 more issues, for a total of 64 issues. More recently a mini-series was done by Malibu/Bravura. Dreadstar has also been the subject of several graphic novels and reprints.

The series centered on the exploits of Vanth Dreadstar and his crew--powerful mystic Syzygy Darklock, the cybernetic telepath Willow, cat-like humanoid Oedi, and freebooter Skeevo. Vanth, newly arrived in the Empirical Galaxy after the events of Metamorphosis Odyssey, tries to live a pastoral existence on Oedi's planet of peaceful cat-people, but his peace is disturbed by the arrival of Darklock, who wants him to get involved in the conflict between the two major forces in the galaxy, the Monarchy and the theocratical Instrumentality. Vanth refuses until the war comes to his planet, wiping out most of the population. Oedi survives and joins them; Willow and Skeevo join later, though the team is in place for the first issue.

Dreadstar takes the side of the Monarchy against the evil Lord High Papal of the Instrumentality, but his team end up becoming fugitives when the Monarchy falls, and go to great lengths to try to uncover a traitor in their midst. The transition to First Comics happened just when the traitor was about to be revealed, and the first issue (#27) contained this revelation.

http://goodcomics.comicbookresources.com/2006/09/22/comics-you-should-own-dreadstar-1-40/

http://goodcomics.comicbookresources.com/2006/10/22/comics-you-should-own-dreadstar-41-64/

Oh Grow Up...Be a Kid and Enjoy Speed Racer!

2008-05-10T16:36:00.014-04:00

Speed Racer: Speed (Emile Hirsch), Pops (John Goodman), Mom (Susan Sarrandon), Spritle (Paulie Litt), Racer X (Mathew Fox), Royalton (Roger Allman)/ Directed by The Wachowscki Brothers.

I just saw the new Speed Racer movie and I was overwhelmed with emotion. Ok quick background. Speed Racer is the title character of the self titled anime from the sixties about a teenaged race car driver and his quest to be the greatest racer of all time. Along the way we are quickly introduced to his family and friends, allies and enemies. This was not a deep cartoon, but it was fun and for a time I too wanted to be the greatest racer of all time. The movie, written and directed by the Wachowski brothers is fast paced, sweet, enduring, funny, and a lot of fun.

The characters are faithful yet updated and the villians are cartoony evil. As stated earlier the movie is fast paced which reinforces the world these characters live in, where everything is intense; the colors are bright and vibrant and in some areas maybe too much so. Information is conveyed quickly; scenes transition quickly, the race sequences are a blur and fight scenes rotate from part of the action to another, so yeah...visually it can be overwhelming. It also takes a bit to catch onto their story telling style, but once you get it you are pulled in.

The music is pumping with new arrangements of the familiar soundtrack, the crowds are going wild and, announcers speak fast, the cars are a blur of motion and the whole time I'm sitting there saying to myself "Go Speed Go." If you remember and enjoyed the cartoon this will not be new to you. You almost don't need words to enjoy this movie, but the dialogue only enhances it, because the family drama is well done and the characters are well represented by the cast of actors chosen to bring us this story of this young man searching for his destiny while embracing his family values.

One criticism could be that there is no danger factor to the film, point taken, but so what. Another criticism seems to be about the Brothers agenda behind the movie. The evils of capitalism. Before you step foot in this film it's probably a good idea to ask yourself why are you interested in seeing this movie? The movie is meant to be fun, and capture the magic that was Speed Racer. The cartoon is dated, and the animation can be stilted, the magic was in how you felt after an episode. There wasn't one thing about the cartoon that you could pinpoint as the source of adrenaline and attentiveness that resulted from a viewing. It was emersive, the whole package; the music, the fast talking, the FX sounds of the Mach 5's gadgets, engines revving, cars accelerating around the track, and the crowd screaming, reacting, responding and someone associated with Speed bellowing "Go Speed Go". Don't believe me? Try watching an episode with your back turned and see how long that lasts. The cartoon took us on Speeds adventures on and off the race track. His villians were mostly bad adults, who were big business and wanted more power or organized crime wanting more power. And it was up to the very small (mom and pop family owned business) Pops Auto Racing to show them what for. The Wachowski's didn't loose this point, they get it, Spritle and Chim Chim in the trunk, Spritle's fantasy adventures, Pops wrestling background and unwavering title as the head of the family, Racer X's need to be a part of this family while being apart, Trixie and Sparky's loyalty... oh and the car...it's all there. They get it.

I've talked to a lot of people who don't get it, they look for details, but that's not the point. It seems like the critics are more interested in the agendas of the Brothers and less about Speed Racer, and maybe that's their job, maybe I'm the one not getting it. I know I can be hard on a movie, something needs to touch me on some level, and this did. Could they have made different choices? maybe, could we have seen more of Trixie? Yes! I'm not sure how this movie will do in the box office and a big part of me doesn't care...it's almost like the brothers made this movie just for me, Do I want it to do well...hell yeah but I kind of like the idea that maybe I wont have to share it with a lot of people.

Beast of Burden: A Love Story and So Much More

2008-05-06T21:48:00.014-04:00

Imagine being born of privilege, ruler of a country, married to the love of your life, respected loved, revered... Then image dying for that love, giving up everything to be with the one you love for all eternity. Now Imagine you and your eternal love being reincarnated over the centuries, destined to fall in love, again and again fated to die. This is the story of Hawkman and Hawkgirl this is their burden.

In this article I will not revisit his convoluted history, I will deal with what is. Although the relationship between the two characters adds immensely to the strength of Hawkman, there is more to him then his love for Hawkgirl. He is a warrior, adept in the use of multiple weapons. Enhanced strength and senses, a healing factor, and a body able to withstand extreme temperatures, and stress. Think of him as Conan +Wolverine with wings. With this life Carter (Carter Hall) retains all of his memories of his past lives. Centuries of experience and knowledge come into play with every battle...he's a brilliant strategist, savage warrior and refined man of antiquities.

During his latest series Carter remembers his previous lives, Kendra doesn't. Recently he's realized that to save Kendra's life he they must be apart, their destiny as lovers means they're fated to die. Realizing to keep the love of his life safe means they can't be together has added an intensity to their relationship that never existed before.

Hawkman doesn't have the colorful popular rogues like Superman, Batman or the Flash. In fact I'm hard pressed to name more then three of his villians; Lionmane, Gentleman Ghost, and the Shadow Thief, sorry that's all I got. A friend of mine recently said that a great hero is defined by his villians. There is something very logic about that. Through conflict with the villian you get a sense of the hero, his true quality so to speak. Another element that should be added is the title characters supporting players, of which Hawkman has very few (until recently).

Hawkman has had numerous titles and none have been as popular as his current, which was canceled after he was removed from his own book and it was retitled Hawkgirl. So what made this character work for me? First and foremost the story of their forbidden love was a huge draw for me. I don't need slugfest from cover to cover. Not to say this book was slight on action, far be it, this book was high octane action. Which leads me to my next reason for loving this character, Hawkman is a beast, he doesn't shy away from a battle no matter who is opponent is; from Shadow thief to Deathstroke to Black Adam, he's flying at you with his mace in his hands and a snarl on his lips.

Lastly in this latest series the creative team did a marvelous job blending all the past incarnations of Hawkman titles into one making him a well rounded character. And I think that's the key. Look back at Animal Man and tell me who his rogues were, what about Starman, or Booster Gold, I could probably go on.

I'm not saying the villians should be discounted, I'm saying the title character is primary, and if that character is well done then he will have longevity as a character (maybe not as a title).
Hawkman works for me...he's cool, he's dangerous and I'm interested in his life.

Off The Shelf

2008-05-01T11:26:00.020-04:00

Incognegro

From the mind of Mat Johnson and the hands of Warren Fleece, this tale of undercover black journalism in the face of racism in the deep South is a soul stirrer indeed! Set with the backdrop of the burgeoning Harlem Renaissance, a writer that can pass for white sets off to document the inhumane atrocities being brought upon blacks in the South; at the risk of being exposed himself, and then having his work published under the byline 'Incognegro'. Seeking more recognition for his work, he is given a last undercover assignment: covering a case about his brother being involved with the death of a white woman.

What makes this bitter pill easier to swallow is Mat's ability to add a touch of levity to a very serious and deathly situation. The logic that which Incognegro and his partner uses to get out of jams is very funny and fairly accurately portrayed of how slaves used to get over on the 'man' in that era. I especially loved the 'Brer Rabbit/Brer Bear dialogue that took place in one scene. Pleece's art does favor Brian Hurtt from Hard Time, but it visualized the story beautifully and everything was well paced; it never felt like Johnson was in a rush to neatly wrap it up. It would be nice to see either some kind of follow-up or prequel books of certain characters. I believe that some great stories can come from it.

I recommend this be included on the Black Expressions' list of books that they solicit in their catalogs that they send to subscribers. (I know, I am thinking small; but if you ever received books from Black Expressions that you didn't order, then you know where I am coming from) Seriously, this should be required reading for African American classes in high schools and given some recognition during Black History Month; along with Satchel Paige, Striking Out Jim Crow. Books like these need that type of exposure, to show that the medium is not all about capes & tights, but, and most importantly, to provide another avenue for Blacks to express their creative voices in passing of our tales to future generations.

Grant Morrison

2008-04-28T15:38:00.002-04:00

Some say there is a fine line between genius and insanity, and no one best fits that phrase better than the one named Grant Morrison.

Also known as the defibrillator of dead characters, whenever there is a mort that is dead in the water with no signs of creativity, leave it Grant to discover an avenue that has never been explored before, or he blows the old history of the character away and reinvents him into something worth investing time into monthly.

On the flip side, Morrison will take the reader on a textual ride, adding colors, and visuals, hyperboles, and what seems like peyote induced storylines that at the end of the tale, the reader is left wondering if what they just read was any good, let alone made sense. Sometimes a second read makes it all the more confusing.

Now, I can't say that I have read everything that he has written; because, like Warren Ellis' ever-growing body of work, it would be humanly impossible (we can save Ellis for another column). But I have read enough to say that sometimes it's brilliance and sometimes - befuddlement.

Seaguy. Brilliance. Every issue. Every storyline.

JLA. Befuddlement. True, it is a big task: what can you write about a team that has no equal on the power scale and not rehash old Legion of Doom plots? Make them fight lunatic fairytales! What? However, I did enjoy the Prometheus storyline. As close to a Skrull as you are gonna get in DC.

WE3. Brilliant. The emotion that came out of that book was as much authentic as it was intentional.

Seven Soldiers of Victory. This is the line between the extremes. Writing 7 books and tying them together; only Morrison could be up to the task. The end result: Individually, great stories and new fresh takes on old characters - par for the course (except the Mister Miracle book, don't know what the hell was going in there). But together, I have no idea what the purpose of the entire saga was for. Made absolutely no sense to me. Were they supposed to join up and fight or what?

There are a couple of other books that I could mention here, but I have rambled enough. You get my point. All writers have their hits and misses, but Grant Morrison does it at such extreme poles: Love him or hate him.

Read and enjoy. There is plenty to go around.

Brand New Same Old Stories?

2008-04-25T15:08:00.008-04:00

Standing in the comic book store with friends, looking over the latest installments of our favorite heroes and anti-heroes, and the same comments kept coming up; "They did this before.", "This storyline has been done before.", "Why are they trying to rewrite that period of crap?", "Retconning again"?

These comments come up for some of the books and major events happening lately: Secret Invasion, Final Crisis, Ultimate Clone Saga, One More Day, Deaths and Resurrections

Been there, done that. Here is my take on all of it. The writers today were kids that read the original stories, same as the readers, in the 70s and 80s. Those stories were either great or sucked salty chocolate balls. Most kids said to themselves, "I can do better." Some of those kids grew up and became writers that we currently enjoy and follow the adventures that they write with a cultish fervor (Luv ya Garth Ennis). Now those writers have an opportunity to re-write whatever wrongs or plot holes that were in comics decades ago and shore up history or strengthen the reasoning behind the original story in the first place. That takes guts; to make a stand to clean up messy continuity or to re-jigger confusing, and sometimes pointless, plotlines. Other things, like One More Day, give users a chance to see the development of new characters. Like the Lee/Ditko era, some will stick, others won't. Some will become classic, others, Mort-of-the-Month infamy.

Consider this a new collectors era; regardless of what was sacrificed to get to this point. A lot of characters that were prominent in 70s kinda disappeared or writers of the time couldn't see how to make those characters relevant anymore. Certain dated characters were favorites of today's writers, and they wanted to make those characters more powerful, smarter, meaningful to today. There was something to those characters that other readers didn't see, that the writer's of today are shining a light on. Take Luke Cage for example (Kudos to you, Mr. Bendis). Ms. Marvel. Spider-Woman. Hercules.

We have had our golden age, we have had our silver age. Let this be the Revisionists' Age. Or maybe I am thinking with glass more than half full. Twice a year, look through the books you are buying. If you are reading something you don't like, drop it. And go and pick up something new.

The Best of The Past II

2008-04-19T22:41:00.007-04:00

It’s that time again, drum roll please…
Wait…before we get to the recommendations I feel the need to define my definition of the “past” as I refer to it in the title. Any presently running story arc doesn’t count. For example I won’t talk about Grant Morrison’s Batman current run but, I can recommend “Face to Face” the run directly before it. Get it… ok.

SCION

Scion was a comic book published by CrossGen Entertainment from July 2000 to April 2004. It was cancelled due to the bankruptcy of CrossGen Comics Inc in 2004.
Written by Ron Marz and drawn by Jimmy Cheung, the story of Scion mainly concerns Ethan, youngest prince of the Heron Dynasty. He is accompanied by Skink, a member of the Lower Races and his best friend. While the Heron and Raven Dynasties have been at war for hundreds of years, there exists at the beginning of the tale a relative peace between the two Kingdoms. This peace doesn't last. Ethan is later joined by Ashleigh, the princess of the Raven dynasty, and a bounty hunter named Exeter, who is a genetically modified humanoid. The main antagonist is Prince Bron of the Raven Dynasty, the older brother of Ashleigh.

The group experience many events, most notably:
A war between the Heron and Raven kingdoms, The establishment of a free nation for the lower races on an isle in the middle of a great ocean instigated by Ethan and Ashleigh
Invasion by a foreign nation with an army of mechanical robots.

Scion ran through 43 issues, the final issue ends the series with Ethan and his father caught in the epicenter of a nuclear explosion. An added short narrative scene, taking place hundreds of years in the future, assures readers that Ethan does escape the blast and the story has a happy ending after all. CrossGen also published four trade paperback books collecting the first half of the series. Conflict of Conscience, Blood for Blood, Divided Loyalties and Sanctuary.

Enjoy! It’s that time again, drum roll please…
Wait…before we get to the recommendations I feel the need to define my definition of the “past” as I refer to it in the title. Any presently running story arc doesn’t count. For example I won’t talk about Grant Morrison’s Batman current run but, I can recommend “Face to Face” the run directly before it. Get it… ok.

SCION

Scion was a comic book published by CrossGen Entertainment from July 2000 to April 2004. It was cancelled due to the bankruptcy of CrossGen Comics Inc in 2004.
Written by Ron Marz and drawn by Jimmy Cheung, the story of Scion mainly concerns Ethan, youngest prince of the Heron Dynasty. He is accompanied by Skink, a member of the Lower Races and his best friend. While the Heron and Raven Dynasties have been at war for hundreds of years, there exists at the beginning of the tale a relative peace between the two Kingdoms. This peace doesn't last. Ethan is later joined by Ashleigh, the princess of the Raven dynasty, and a bounty hunter named Exeter, who is a genetically modified humanoid. The main antagonist is Prince Bron of the Raven Dynasty, the older brother of Ashleigh.

The group experience many events, most notably:
A war between the Heron and Raven kingdoms, The establishment of a free nation for the lower races on an isle in the middle of a great ocean instigated by Ethan and Ashleigh
Invasion by a foreign nation with an army of mechanical robots.

Scion ran through 43 issues, the final issue ends the series with Ethan and his father caught in the epicenter of a nuclear explosion. An added short narrative scene, taking place hundreds of years in the future, assures readers that Ethan does escape the blast and the story has a happy ending after all. CrossGen also published four trade paperback books collecting the first half of the series. Conflict of Conscience, Blood for Blood, Divided Loyalties and Sanctuary.

Enjoy!

Creative Differences...Let's Reboot...But Keep It Good.

2008-04-17T21:36:00.019-04:00

Every once in awhile you run across a comic book series that sticks with you. This is the book that maybe you discovered accidentally, or a friend recommended. There's no time constraints, maybe you discovered this phenomenal title one month...four months...a year six or ten years ago. The book for me is the Legion of Superheroes or Superboy and The Legion of Superheroes, or the Legion or more recently Supergirl and The Legion of Superheroes. (Let's not forget their companion book Legionnaires)

The original Legion first appeared in Adventure Comics 247, April 1958, meaning they are due for their 50th anniversary. The legion is a group of teenage heroes from different worlds in the 30th century. Initially the team was closely associated with the original Superboy. Many of their adventures required either the Legion or Superboy to travel through time to participate in adventures that ranged from standard superhero fare to science fiction.
The group was highly dependent on Superboy to turn the tide during their many adventures. Many of their stories revolved around a standard silver age gimmick of stories shrouded in mystery, leading the reader to believe one thing was going on while the story was really about something else. For example maybe Superboy was the Great Thief from the past. The story would revolve around the legion trying to find a way to stop him. Eventually it would be revealed as either a scam or a fake Superboy.

The stories were fun but didn't have a lasting impact except to propel the Legion into such high popularity as to eventually take over the Adventure Comics title from Superboy. Their next major move was to co-op Superboys title with issue number 197, becoming Superboy starring the Legion of Superheroes (August 1973) crafted by Cary Bates and Dave Cockrum. Dave Cockrum would soon be replaced by Mike Grell. Two major things happened next. In 1974 Paul Levitz comes on the book as writer and issue 231 (Sept 1977) sees another title change; Superboy and the Legion of Superheroes (written by Paul Levitz and drawn by James Sherman). The book saw a revolving door of artist including Joe Staton, Jim Starlin, Bob McLeod, and Jack Abel. Paul Levitz eventually left the book to be replaced by Gerry Conway.

Ok let's look at this for a moment...The Paul Levitz; Mike Grell era saw a dramatic change in the Legion, mostly visual. Grell brought a sexy sleek look to the Legion. Common threads in the book were self contained stories and a sense of danger. Legionnaires died, lost powers, gained new powers, got married, and left the Legion to travel thru time. Earth War a notable and popular storyline saw an ongoing storyline involving the United Planets at war with the Khunds (Paul Levitz and Jim Sherman). Another ambitious multi-parter was "Murder Most Foul" by Paul Levitz and Jim Starlin.

The Legion is known for its large roster, 20-25 members, and simplistic character names such Sun Boy, Cosmic Boy, Phantom Girl, Karate Kid, Light Lass and Colossal Boy and Matter Eater Lad. Names that for the most part, clearly defined the characters abilities with the exceptions of Saturn Girl, Mon El, Cosmic Boy, Star Boy and Dawnstar. Each member had a unique power. The team had a charter, and rules for membership, such as; no member shall kill, all powers must be natural, and all members must be teenagers. Each member is also awarded a Legion Flight ring.
The book was fun...just plain fun. Individually there were few members who could be classified as power houses, but together they were damn near unstoppable. Each issue showcased a small line-up, usually with multiple stories. Paul Levitz eventually left the book replaced by Gerry Conway.

Superboy left the book in issue 259 (August, 1980) and the book was re-titled the Legion of Superheroes. Jimmy James took over the art chores and the book went into a lengthy storyline that was mediocre and pedestrian at best. I actually left the title at this time. Paul Levitz returned to the title joined by Pat Broderick. Keith Giffen joined Levitz for an acclaimed run (including the Great Darkness Saga) that propelled the Legion to one of DC Comics most popular titles. The Legion was re-launched as a Baxter paper direct market comic. Keith Giffen eventually left the book, Superboy was killed thanks to Crisis on Infinite Earths, Keith Giffen returned and the Legions historic run ended with the Magic Wars.

Time passed the book was re-launched as The Legion, chronicling the tales of the Legion 5 years after the Magic Wars, a darker version of who they were helmed by Keith Giffen. This led to taa daa their 1st reboot. Out of Zero Hour (a major DC Comics event) came a new continuity and younger version of the Legion and 2 titles, The Legion of Superheroes and Legionnaires. This new continuity allowed the creative team to tell new stories or re-introduce old concepts with a fresh twist. But alas it did not last the book had one finale resurgence with The Blight storyline leading to the Legion Lost and Legion World mini-series. Next up was the new Legion series, which started out with a bang but somehow lost its way and was cancelled with issue 38, just in time for another reboot.

Following a crossover with the Teen Titans, in Teen Titans #16 and Teen Titans/Legion special, a new series was launched; written by Mark Waid and drawn by Barry Kitson. Initial issues of the current title reintroduced the characters and provided new and divergent origins for them. Most characters resemble their previous counterparts in costume and powers, with the most notable exceptions including Chameleon Boy, now called simply Chameleon and depicted as an androgynous creature, Star Boy, who in this version of the Legion is black, Colossal Boy, who is now a giant who shrinks to human size, and Phantom Girl, who exists in two universes at once and has conversations with people in her own dimension while talking to Legionnaires at the same time. The future universe of this Legion is an emotionally and mentally repressive society which involves human sexuality and contact being kept at arms' length as well as Orwellian surveillance of minors. The Legion's main goal is social reform as well as protecting people and inspiring them with the legends of superheroes of old, even though the team isn't appreciated by various government authorities. The Legion is worshiped by thousands of "Legionnaires"; young people on various different worlds who worship the group in a cult-like manner. Some of the Legionnaires keep a constant vigil outside Legion headquarters.

Ok...to understand what I love about the Legion you have to examine the essence of the book. When the Legion was created the only motivation they needed to form a team was the desire to do good, and surprisingly that motivation lasted through their fifty year history and two reboots. Even during the the "Five Year later" re-launch when the book was decidedly darker, and the team was disbanded, and hardened, their motivation to get back together was to do some good. Each member was the best their race had to offer, not necessarily the best power, although they were usually more accomplished at using their abilities then others on their planet, but they were strong willed, courageous, and full of hope that the universe could be a better place and they would never be less than the heroes they needed to be. No kill or be killed, no dark Legion. The few times they decided to put revenge above their team morals, they always found themselves answering to the overall ideals of the team, realizing that as a Legionnaire you are held to a higher standard. More than a few Legionnaires lost their membership due to putting their personal desires ahead of the team philosophy.

This book always felt good, even at its silliest or darkest, because it was about the good in people no matter your race, color or religion, realizing your potential, and fighting the good fight. It defined the term Superhero. No matter how you feel about the constant creative changes, re-launches reboots and differences that follow, the Legion held its members to a higher standard, and each creative team over its 5o year history never lost sight of that.

Hero By Night

2008-04-14T02:15:00.001-04:00

This comic represents another fun comic coming from other than DC or Marvel. More and more the independents are releasing good material, while everyone is talking about the next "event" books. Hero By Night now fills the void left by the cancellation of Kyle Baker's brilliant Plastic Man. The art is nice and simplistic and extremely fitting for the story. The writing is quite clever and is reminiscent of the "cliffhanger" style of storytelling. There is a story within a story effect involving Jack (the main character) as he discovers the tales of the Hero. The hardcover edition of the mini-series makes a beautiful introduction to this truly unique cast of characters. It is so amazing how this book is flying under the radar. Get a look at this series and give us your opinion because, Platinum Studios has the placed the mini-series (Issues 1-4) online for free. Also, check out the online Hero by Night game.

http://www.drunkduck.com/Hero_By_Night/index.php?p=329559.

The Best of The Past

2008-03-21T20:29:00.000-04:00

Every once in a blue moon I'll post a series or a run from a series from the past that I enjoyed. My first recommendation (Drum roll please...)

Camelot 3000:

Camelot 3000 is a 12-issue limited series written by Mike W. Barr and penciled by Brian Bolland. It was published by DC Comics from 1982-1985 as on of it's first direct market projects.
The series follows the adventures of King Arther, Merlin and the reincarnated Knights of the Round Table as they emerge in an overpopulated future world of 3000 A.D. where space travel has been banned, to fight off an alien invasion mastermind by Arthur's old nemesis, Morgan Le Fay.

Enjoy

Another Try with the Fish Guy

2008-03-21T18:42:00.000-04:00

Rumors are flying over the Internet comics news sites about the return of Aquaman to the DC universe shortly. Aquaman is one of DC Comics Icons. He is the Monarch of the seas and a long standing Justice League member. His contribution to the DC universe includes being one of the first heroes to be married, the first to have a child, the first to lose a child, and the first to divorce. He was chosen in the sixties to headline his own cartoon (it doesn't matter if you like it or not, its a pretty cool distinction). He was a headliner in the Superfriends (not the best showcase for him).

But Aquaman stands out for me during his long and popular run in Adventure Comics, notably drawn by Jim Aparo. This is where I fell in love with the character. Aparo's slick figure was powerful and graceful, the stories were gripping and believe it or not event free. Consider that the death of his son was handled like any other issue of the series but, the reverberations have lasted to this day. Most writers fail with this character because they either keep him steeped in his grief of losing his child and wife (divorced him after losing Arthur Jr.) or boring us with the constant who will take over Atlantis stories.

Which brings me to his other run with distinction ... helmed by Peter David (3rd series). Peter David gave us a little bit of all the Aquaman runs. The anger was there, the conquest of Atlantis was there, but none of it preoccupied the series. The character actually worked through the issues, and became the undisputed King of Atlantis. His title was now recognized by the entire DC universe. Characters, villians, every day people and dignitaries all understood his standing and treated him accordingly.

If DC brings him back this year this will be the 5th series for Aquaman, and I will admit that maybe thats 3 too many.

That being said I am a huge Aquaman fan and I think he still has life in him and rarely has DC truly met this characters potential. The problem is that a lot of folks think of the character as the Superfriends guy who swims under water and talks to fish. If you haven't given the character a chance because you remember when... then check out my recommended readings, and if you still can't stand him then that's ok, at least it will be an informed decision.

Recommended readings:
The Atlantis Chronicles
Aquaman: Time and Tide
Adventure Comics 441
Series 3 Aquaman by Peter David and others
Grant Morrison's run on the JLA
Worlds at War DC Universe event.
Joe Kelly's run on the JLA

The Smartest Superheroes

2008-03-18T18:03:00.000-04:00

Read the following article:
http://images.businessweek.com/ss/06/05/smart_heroes/index_01.htm.
What ten other heroes could be added to make this list a complete top twenty?

How do you feel about the Secret Invasion?

2008-03-15T04:04:00.001-04:00

The newest Marvel event book is out, and almost any hero might be a Skrull. Besides Elektra, what hero appears to be a Skrull? Who do you hope won't to be a Skrull? Do you even care?