Well, I just received and read Disney's Gargoyles issue #2, and thought I might give my opinion and a link to (probably) the one review out there. There is a certain disjointedness to this issue, a large part of that is due to the end of the cartoon series not being available, and having to piece together things from memory. Some of it is also from having to tie up an issue and give nods to more of the cast.
Still the feeling of the original cartoon cannot be denied. The feeling that something is building is also quite prevalent. The dialogue is still spot on and I suspect that will never change. The art I still find lacking, but only in certain panels, and at certain points. It is still very crisp, and true to the characters.
At the end of the issue the creator professed his apologies at their being only two issues in a five (or six) month period on a bimonthly book. But I am quite ready for the next issue, as that is where the original stories take off, the first two issues were recap of that ending. It is hard to say if it was a poor job or not, as I haven't seen those episodes in ten years. There were a lot of other good issues to come out in the last two weeks. Probably the one I will begin next is issue #1 of the Spirit, which should have come out on my birthday. Have a safe and happy holiday! And don't forget issue #3 should be out soon, if you like medieval fantasy in a modern setting I cannot recommend this book enough. I am probably most anxious for issue 6 since that delves into King Arthur.
The review mentioned above can be found here.
My thoughts on issue 1 can be found here.
Sunday, December 17, 2006
Monday, December 04, 2006
Wednesday, November 29, 2006
Tuesday, November 28, 2006
Monday, November 27, 2006
Sunday, November 26, 2006
Friday, November 24, 2006
Great Site... Bad Interface
This site is called Com-Mix and for the most part I think it a great idea. Several indy comic artists gave permission to have their images used, and people can cut and paste their own strips. It really works out quite well in the creating process, you can resize and flip and rotate and overlap and such. For instance the TV in the above is actually the top of a cellphone made rather large. As I said, I couldn't be happier when creating. If I could make one more addition it would be thought bubbles. As you can see from Panel 2.
There is an assortment of art from nearly 20 artists. Quite varied in style. Now if only it all worked. On this strip it just simply will not save the strip. I don't know if perhaps there is a limit on strips one can do. That could be I suppose.
And the strip you will see below is my first attempt. Which is actually uploaded to the site ten times. Not really intentional on my part. I was simply trying to edit the background into the second panel, it was not showing up when I would save it. And the strip just was not working for me blank. Anyway, since it refuses to work today, I figured I would just put my creations here and give some links. I hope someone out there enjoys it too.
Wednesday, September 20, 2006
How Can This Be Legal?
There is something to be said for morals, and as an extension of that, the laws we build that allow as a very strict societal compass that we follow. And yet there is always that grey area. And there are a lot of factors that go along with that. Boston Legal explores all the absolute truths and turns them on their head. And while it does so in a, more often than not, over-the-top fashion. It nonetheless succeeds in shaking those moral grounds that we can sometimes stand a bit to firmly on.
I think in showing the more extreme situations (and in the case of (William Shatner's)Denny Crane somewhere far beyond that). I think it allows for a different point of view. In all of the silliness, in all of the inside nods... Someone is trying to tell us to look beyond what we know. To think past what we have been taught. Even if it only opens us up just a bit more.
So, what was so profound in this particular episode I watched? Sex dolls and surrogates. Come on, how else were they going to get my attention?
Oh, and just to tie this back to comics: Peter David wrote about the Season Premiere here, and there is a nice article showing the similarities between Boston Legal and She-Hulk, fans of both or either should give it a look here.
I think in showing the more extreme situations (and in the case of (William Shatner's)Denny Crane somewhere far beyond that). I think it allows for a different point of view. In all of the silliness, in all of the inside nods... Someone is trying to tell us to look beyond what we know. To think past what we have been taught. Even if it only opens us up just a bit more.
So, what was so profound in this particular episode I watched? Sex dolls and surrogates. Come on, how else were they going to get my attention?
Oh, and just to tie this back to comics: Peter David wrote about the Season Premiere here, and there is a nice article showing the similarities between Boston Legal and She-Hulk, fans of both or either should give it a look here.
Friday, September 15, 2006
Monday, August 28, 2006
Comics Coming (on Friday)
SHIPPING THIS WEEK: AUGUST 30, 2006
DARK HORSE COMICS
GREMLINS HC $12.95- The problem with preordering (one of few) is that by the time I go to write out a blog entry, it is quite likely that I have forgotten key details of some things I ordered. This is one of those times. Still, a man is only as good as his internet connection. "The Gremlins is the story of Gus, a British World War II fighter pilot, who during the Battle of Britain turned to look out on the wing of his plane only to see an amazing sight: a little man, no more than six inches tall with horns growing from his head, drilling a hole in the plane's wing. Gus was the first man to ever see a Gremlin, and what happened after that would change the war, and the world, forever."
Now the reason I was intrigued by this book is that it reminded me of the tiny little gremlin that terrorized Bugs Bunny. Even looking at the cover now there is a strong similiarity in design. But there is Walt Disney's signature/logo slapped on the book. Anyway, should be a nice edition to have all the same, and the price is right.
DC COMICS
ALL STAR SUPERMAN #5 $2.99- Well we have almost reached the halfway point to the Grant Morrison run on this series. And I have to say, I really enjoy this book. It is quirky and adventurous with wild ideas and classic scenarios. And it has reaffirmed that this is probably just the right amount of Superman for me.
JUSTICE #7 (OF 12) $3.50- Another quality series by DC. And yet not tied to anything currently. Which might be why I like it so much. It stands alone, yet is probably filled with bits for the seasoned reader. The art of Alex Ross and the story by Jim Krueger have been worth the wait. It is too soon to tell if this will be a trade worth buying, though it certainly seems to me that it would read even better that way. If you are a fan of the ensemble cast in an epic tale with more character then clashes... this is a good one.
MARVEL COMICS
CIVIL WAR YOUNG AVENGERS & RUNAWAYS #2 (OF 4) $2.99- I hope I don't end up feeling like this series has been a waste of money. As it would be one of the first Civil War tie-ins that I have felt this way about. I don't know if Runaways or (when it returns) Young Avengers are hurting for new readers. But I would be surprised if this has pulled anyone in. Brian K. Vaughan is tying into events from this series in the regular Runaways title (after Civil War), so maybe that is a good sign.
KABUKI #7 (MR) $2.99- How sweet it is! Kabuki returns to my doorstep. The end of the first arc. I highly expect big things... like my actually understanding even less then I do. This is the kind of series that you can probably pull as many different reactions from as there are readers. If and when the trade comes, I cannot recommend it enough. It is a wonderful journey into self discovery.
SHE-HULK 2 #11 $2.99- Oh, it is on now. Jen stands between her husband, Man-Wolf... and his prey (and wannabe husband) Pug. It is anybody's guess what happens next. Is She-Hulk under a spell? Will the bite Pug received turn him into a wolf too? Can the Man-Wolf tinkle on the paper?
X-FACTOR #10 $2.99- Layla knows things. That is all I know. Peter David is crafting quite a few mysteries here, I will never know how he does so much. I cannot recommend his books enough. And the art while fluctuating always keeps a solidly dark feel. It's like a enigma wrapped in a riddle and covered in caramel.
IDW COMICS
COBB OFF THE LEASH #3 $3.99- The return of Dirk Squarejaw has been a long time coming. The ever-resourceful, rough and tough, take no bullsh** while taking out bad guys hero. There is alot that is adrenaline candy in this book, alot of surface storytelling. But there is alot to be said for those stories. Sometimes you just need something fun.
CSI DYING IN THE GUTTERS #1 $3.99- Speaking of fun. One of the most popular TV series tackles the case of one of the comic industries least liked gossip monger. Follow the death of Rich Johnston with cameos from all sort of comic pros.
FALLEN ANGEL IDW #8 (MR) $3.99- Yet again another Peter David penned comic book. And as it says in the previous comments section this book is on a quality level and only getting better. An expertly crafted world where the characters operate in an area of grey, though the stakes couldn't be higher.
MERCHANDISE
ULTIMATES TOMORROW MEN MMPB (RES) $7.99- The high octane Ultimates make their prose novel debut. I am very excited about the resurgence of original Marvel novels coming out. The biggest one thus far has to be an upcoming Wolverine novel written by David Mack in October.
DARK HORSE COMICS
GREMLINS HC $12.95- The problem with preordering (one of few) is that by the time I go to write out a blog entry, it is quite likely that I have forgotten key details of some things I ordered. This is one of those times. Still, a man is only as good as his internet connection. "The Gremlins is the story of Gus, a British World War II fighter pilot, who during the Battle of Britain turned to look out on the wing of his plane only to see an amazing sight: a little man, no more than six inches tall with horns growing from his head, drilling a hole in the plane's wing. Gus was the first man to ever see a Gremlin, and what happened after that would change the war, and the world, forever."
Now the reason I was intrigued by this book is that it reminded me of the tiny little gremlin that terrorized Bugs Bunny. Even looking at the cover now there is a strong similiarity in design. But there is Walt Disney's signature/logo slapped on the book. Anyway, should be a nice edition to have all the same, and the price is right.
DC COMICS
ALL STAR SUPERMAN #5 $2.99- Well we have almost reached the halfway point to the Grant Morrison run on this series. And I have to say, I really enjoy this book. It is quirky and adventurous with wild ideas and classic scenarios. And it has reaffirmed that this is probably just the right amount of Superman for me.
JUSTICE #7 (OF 12) $3.50- Another quality series by DC. And yet not tied to anything currently. Which might be why I like it so much. It stands alone, yet is probably filled with bits for the seasoned reader. The art of Alex Ross and the story by Jim Krueger have been worth the wait. It is too soon to tell if this will be a trade worth buying, though it certainly seems to me that it would read even better that way. If you are a fan of the ensemble cast in an epic tale with more character then clashes... this is a good one.
MARVEL COMICS
CIVIL WAR YOUNG AVENGERS & RUNAWAYS #2 (OF 4) $2.99- I hope I don't end up feeling like this series has been a waste of money. As it would be one of the first Civil War tie-ins that I have felt this way about. I don't know if Runaways or (when it returns) Young Avengers are hurting for new readers. But I would be surprised if this has pulled anyone in. Brian K. Vaughan is tying into events from this series in the regular Runaways title (after Civil War), so maybe that is a good sign.
KABUKI #7 (MR) $2.99- How sweet it is! Kabuki returns to my doorstep. The end of the first arc. I highly expect big things... like my actually understanding even less then I do. This is the kind of series that you can probably pull as many different reactions from as there are readers. If and when the trade comes, I cannot recommend it enough. It is a wonderful journey into self discovery.
SHE-HULK 2 #11 $2.99- Oh, it is on now. Jen stands between her husband, Man-Wolf... and his prey (and wannabe husband) Pug. It is anybody's guess what happens next. Is She-Hulk under a spell? Will the bite Pug received turn him into a wolf too? Can the Man-Wolf tinkle on the paper?
X-FACTOR #10 $2.99- Layla knows things. That is all I know. Peter David is crafting quite a few mysteries here, I will never know how he does so much. I cannot recommend his books enough. And the art while fluctuating always keeps a solidly dark feel. It's like a enigma wrapped in a riddle and covered in caramel.
IDW COMICS
COBB OFF THE LEASH #3 $3.99- The return of Dirk Squarejaw has been a long time coming. The ever-resourceful, rough and tough, take no bullsh** while taking out bad guys hero. There is alot that is adrenaline candy in this book, alot of surface storytelling. But there is alot to be said for those stories. Sometimes you just need something fun.
CSI DYING IN THE GUTTERS #1 $3.99- Speaking of fun. One of the most popular TV series tackles the case of one of the comic industries least liked gossip monger. Follow the death of Rich Johnston with cameos from all sort of comic pros.
FALLEN ANGEL IDW #8 (MR) $3.99- Yet again another Peter David penned comic book. And as it says in the previous comments section this book is on a quality level and only getting better. An expertly crafted world where the characters operate in an area of grey, though the stakes couldn't be higher.
MERCHANDISE
ULTIMATES TOMORROW MEN MMPB (RES) $7.99- The high octane Ultimates make their prose novel debut. I am very excited about the resurgence of original Marvel novels coming out. The biggest one thus far has to be an upcoming Wolverine novel written by David Mack in October.
Saturday, August 26, 2006
Comics to Come (in a week)
Shipping This Week: AUGUST 23, 2006
DC COMICS
BATMAN #656 $2.99- Grant Morrison continues his story of Batman with some huge changes, and the promise of a return to simpler times. While not my favorite (I am enjoying Paul Dini's run on Detective a bit more). I have to say that this premise has me intrigued. At the very least I will have an enjoyable issue to read. But in a few months, I will have cut off both titles. Bye bye Dark Knight.
JUSTICE LEAGUE OF AMERICA #1 $3.99- I have to admit that the writer is the only reason I am getting this title. But it is Brad Meltzer of Identity Crisis fame. I enjoyed that book very much. It was quite busy with all sorts of characters and threads, but I think it only made me invest more. And while I remember some people being a bit put off by the ending, it was no less plausible to me. Anyway, I can't wait to catch up with this writer again, and find a title that keeps me in DC waters.
MARVEL COMICS
DAREDEVIL #88 $2.99- Wow if you are not getting this, you are missing a phenominal run. It is as if there is deja vu again, and the title of Daredevil is breaking new ground. Setting itself firmly with a great writer and artist team with a distinct direction all it's own. For those of who have been reading, it has been a great time to be a DD fan.
ETERNALS #3 (OF 6) $3.99- Speaking of a writer being the main draw. I can't say I would be getting Eternals if it were written by anyone else. Neil Gaiman is crafting a grand return for this secret sect of the Marvel U. It feels fresh and new, and while nodding at previous continuity (and often embracing) as a new reader I had no trouble keeping up. This one is worth the extra dollar.
HEROES FOR HIRE #1 CW $2.99- I am very anxious for this book. I am worried it will be one of those that failed to impress me, or that I might regret taking a chance on. But so far it looks like it will be alot of fun. A band of heroes come together with a common goal... money. Yet with the first job being something as controversial as taking a side in Civil War will everyone have qtheir eye on the prize?
NEW AVENGERS #23 CW $2.99- I hate to like this book, I really do. To me, the writer is at his best with one character. This book has a whole slew of them. Each time I find myself bored to tears as each hero seemingly lines up to take a punch at the villian of the week... in a couple of months there always seems to be the issue that focuses on one member, and brings me back. With Civil War it has been a series of single character focus. First Captain America, then Luke Cage and Jessica Jones (my fav)... and so it will continue, I think after Civil War though, I might be done. I was going issues at a time without bothering to read this book, and that cannot be a good sign.
SPIDER-MAN LOVES MARY JANE #9 $2.99- I love the story lines (mostly in TV and movies) where two characters can't seem to hit it off. One falls in love and the other moves on, then mistakes are realised but too little too late. There is just that sympathy that can be found on both sides, and it is easily relatable. Not to mention it just keeps you rooting and on the edge of your seat.
ULTIMATES ANNUAL #2 $3.99- I liked last year's Ulitimates annual quite a bit. It added to the main title, and was quite entertaining on its own. But there are many differences between this year and last. Last year had series writer Mark Millar at the helm, this year sees relative newcomer to comics Charlie Huston come onboard. And as my good friend helped me to realise, beyond this Huston is doing nothing else with the title. So, it already feels quite disconnected. I have not heard too many good things about this issue, but sometimes that brings my expectation down enough to make me say, "This isn't that bad."
WOLVERINE #45 CW $2.99- I am liking this title. Wolverine taking on the villian of Civil War... the reason that the Marvel Universe is at odds. And he is finding much more than he bargained for. I think if a writer wants to have that invincible character, that character that will always be mad enough, strong enough, determined enough, or crazy enough to do something, they need look no further than Wolverine. He is the ultimate fan fiction character.
COMICS
FALLEN ANGEL IDW VOL 1 TP $19.99- I have these issues, but I still wanted to recommend this trade. Peter David has taken his creation to new levels at IDW, and I think IDW is happy to have him. Especially considering Fallen Angel was supposed to be a mini and got extended to an ongoing. The art of J K Woodward is absolutely breathtaking, I am surprised the artist took to this character and to this world with such a masterful perspective. This title is entertaining, and intriguing and challenging. If I saw this trade sitting on the shelf I would be hardpressed to pass it up. I can't often say that about comics I already own.
So, there you go... just in time for you all to have already bought all your comics. (Both of you) Sadly, I won't get these until next week Friday. So, if you want to gloat use spoilers.
DC COMICS
BATMAN #656 $2.99- Grant Morrison continues his story of Batman with some huge changes, and the promise of a return to simpler times. While not my favorite (I am enjoying Paul Dini's run on Detective a bit more). I have to say that this premise has me intrigued. At the very least I will have an enjoyable issue to read. But in a few months, I will have cut off both titles. Bye bye Dark Knight.
JUSTICE LEAGUE OF AMERICA #1 $3.99- I have to admit that the writer is the only reason I am getting this title. But it is Brad Meltzer of Identity Crisis fame. I enjoyed that book very much. It was quite busy with all sorts of characters and threads, but I think it only made me invest more. And while I remember some people being a bit put off by the ending, it was no less plausible to me. Anyway, I can't wait to catch up with this writer again, and find a title that keeps me in DC waters.
MARVEL COMICS
DAREDEVIL #88 $2.99- Wow if you are not getting this, you are missing a phenominal run. It is as if there is deja vu again, and the title of Daredevil is breaking new ground. Setting itself firmly with a great writer and artist team with a distinct direction all it's own. For those of who have been reading, it has been a great time to be a DD fan.
ETERNALS #3 (OF 6) $3.99- Speaking of a writer being the main draw. I can't say I would be getting Eternals if it were written by anyone else. Neil Gaiman is crafting a grand return for this secret sect of the Marvel U. It feels fresh and new, and while nodding at previous continuity (and often embracing) as a new reader I had no trouble keeping up. This one is worth the extra dollar.
HEROES FOR HIRE #1 CW $2.99- I am very anxious for this book. I am worried it will be one of those that failed to impress me, or that I might regret taking a chance on. But so far it looks like it will be alot of fun. A band of heroes come together with a common goal... money. Yet with the first job being something as controversial as taking a side in Civil War will everyone have qtheir eye on the prize?
NEW AVENGERS #23 CW $2.99- I hate to like this book, I really do. To me, the writer is at his best with one character. This book has a whole slew of them. Each time I find myself bored to tears as each hero seemingly lines up to take a punch at the villian of the week... in a couple of months there always seems to be the issue that focuses on one member, and brings me back. With Civil War it has been a series of single character focus. First Captain America, then Luke Cage and Jessica Jones (my fav)... and so it will continue, I think after Civil War though, I might be done. I was going issues at a time without bothering to read this book, and that cannot be a good sign.
SPIDER-MAN LOVES MARY JANE #9 $2.99- I love the story lines (mostly in TV and movies) where two characters can't seem to hit it off. One falls in love and the other moves on, then mistakes are realised but too little too late. There is just that sympathy that can be found on both sides, and it is easily relatable. Not to mention it just keeps you rooting and on the edge of your seat.
ULTIMATES ANNUAL #2 $3.99- I liked last year's Ulitimates annual quite a bit. It added to the main title, and was quite entertaining on its own. But there are many differences between this year and last. Last year had series writer Mark Millar at the helm, this year sees relative newcomer to comics Charlie Huston come onboard. And as my good friend helped me to realise, beyond this Huston is doing nothing else with the title. So, it already feels quite disconnected. I have not heard too many good things about this issue, but sometimes that brings my expectation down enough to make me say, "This isn't that bad."
WOLVERINE #45 CW $2.99- I am liking this title. Wolverine taking on the villian of Civil War... the reason that the Marvel Universe is at odds. And he is finding much more than he bargained for. I think if a writer wants to have that invincible character, that character that will always be mad enough, strong enough, determined enough, or crazy enough to do something, they need look no further than Wolverine. He is the ultimate fan fiction character.
COMICS
FALLEN ANGEL IDW VOL 1 TP $19.99- I have these issues, but I still wanted to recommend this trade. Peter David has taken his creation to new levels at IDW, and I think IDW is happy to have him. Especially considering Fallen Angel was supposed to be a mini and got extended to an ongoing. The art of J K Woodward is absolutely breathtaking, I am surprised the artist took to this character and to this world with such a masterful perspective. This title is entertaining, and intriguing and challenging. If I saw this trade sitting on the shelf I would be hardpressed to pass it up. I can't often say that about comics I already own.
So, there you go... just in time for you all to have already bought all your comics. (Both of you) Sadly, I won't get these until next week Friday. So, if you want to gloat use spoilers.
Tuesday, August 15, 2006
Comics I am Getting
Shipping This Week: AUGUST 16, 2006
IMAGE COMICS
GROUNDED TP $14.99- Been waiting for this trade for awhile. Not to say it is late, just that my excitement is high. I missed this limited series (Chuck Dixon says they don't call them minis anymore) the first time around. And 6 issues with the DCBS discount... well even the 15 dollars isn't a bad price at all. I can't quite remember the premise... something about a kid discovering his father is a superhero and that he is one too. Anyway, it has alot of twists on that tale. Mostly I am in it for artist Paul Azaceta. That is a high caliber talent who has a way with a pencil. If you are not currently enjoying his work on "Talent" from Boom Studios, then you should be.
MARVEL COMICS
RUNAWAYS #19 $2.99- Month in and month out this title impresses me. There is a story here that never slows down. Never has a bad issue, and always allows for an edge of your seat read. I recently listened to a podcast where the hosts commented that this was their soon to be dropped title, that it just is not quite up there with the previous volume. Having not read the first volume of this book entirely I can say that I must be feeling what they felt that first time... it is a hell of a ride.
SENSATIONAL SPIDER-MAN #29 $2.99- This is another one of those titles that just as I drop it, something pulls me back in. And this time it is the unmasking of Spider-Man, and the focus on the bad guys that want revenge. I am actually pretty psyched about it. Painter Clayton Craine took on the art last issue, and it was something to drool about. This issue is not quite so expertly handled in the art department, but it features the confrontation between Chameleon (Spider-Man's first villian) should promise to be a pretty good read.
Another small week. Next week looks to have quite a few great books coming out though.
IMAGE COMICS
GROUNDED TP $14.99- Been waiting for this trade for awhile. Not to say it is late, just that my excitement is high. I missed this limited series (Chuck Dixon says they don't call them minis anymore) the first time around. And 6 issues with the DCBS discount... well even the 15 dollars isn't a bad price at all. I can't quite remember the premise... something about a kid discovering his father is a superhero and that he is one too. Anyway, it has alot of twists on that tale. Mostly I am in it for artist Paul Azaceta. That is a high caliber talent who has a way with a pencil. If you are not currently enjoying his work on "Talent" from Boom Studios, then you should be.
MARVEL COMICS
RUNAWAYS #19 $2.99- Month in and month out this title impresses me. There is a story here that never slows down. Never has a bad issue, and always allows for an edge of your seat read. I recently listened to a podcast where the hosts commented that this was their soon to be dropped title, that it just is not quite up there with the previous volume. Having not read the first volume of this book entirely I can say that I must be feeling what they felt that first time... it is a hell of a ride.
SENSATIONAL SPIDER-MAN #29 $2.99- This is another one of those titles that just as I drop it, something pulls me back in. And this time it is the unmasking of Spider-Man, and the focus on the bad guys that want revenge. I am actually pretty psyched about it. Painter Clayton Craine took on the art last issue, and it was something to drool about. This issue is not quite so expertly handled in the art department, but it features the confrontation between Chameleon (Spider-Man's first villian) should promise to be a pretty good read.
Another small week. Next week looks to have quite a few great books coming out though.
Tuesday, August 08, 2006
Something to Blog About
Shipping This Week: AUGUST 09, 2006
DARK HORSE
ESCAPISTS #2 (OF 6) $2.99- This book really impressed me last month. Such a striking use of visual storytelling. Really allowing fans of the medium to embrace and admire different styles and techniques. I still find it hard to believe that one artist did the whole book. I am expecting another great read, and really wishing this title was not a miniseries.
MARVEL
BEYOND #2 (OF 6) $2.99- Another example of the big twos' attempts to go home again. Though I have to give Marvel credit, their previous nostalgia minis have been mined from bad storylines... or made them dreadfully worse with a new execution. Still making another sequel to the original Secret Wars struck my fancy. I like seeing the contrast of what was once a big event... crossing into all titles... being now a miniseries which seems to relish in knowing that there is nothing of consequence. I mean Spider-Man is killed in the first issue. Yet he is in four other titles doing well. I can't wait until 15 to 20 years from now people are reading "Return to House of M". Wait, 20 years from now... who am I kidding? Be here for it next summer.
SHE-HULK 2 #10 $2.99- Why are you not getting this book? Oh wait, I can stop saying that?! Sales are not too bad? Oh, well, we return to see the fate of resident Marvel creep/ ladies man Star Fox get what's coming to him. Meanwhile all the supporting cast you have come to expect... oh except for the person who dies this issue (or the awesome android) Buuum Buuum Baaaaaaa
SPIDER-MAN FAMILY FEATURING AMAZING FRIENDS $4.99- Ok, so I am getting my nostalgia kicks on this little spin-off of Spider-Man and his Amazing Friends... so what? "Return to House of M" people! I am not sure if I was ever a huge fan of this 80s gem, but I certainly caught a few episodes, and have seen a good chunk recently thanks to ABC Family. But Iceman and Firestar have always been two faves... and this is written by Sean McKeever... not to mention there is a new Chris Giarusso mini marvels. It is pricey, but I dare say I will enjoy the hell out of it.
Well, a short week. I am off to watch some Animaniacs...
DARK HORSE
ESCAPISTS #2 (OF 6) $2.99- This book really impressed me last month. Such a striking use of visual storytelling. Really allowing fans of the medium to embrace and admire different styles and techniques. I still find it hard to believe that one artist did the whole book. I am expecting another great read, and really wishing this title was not a miniseries.
MARVEL
BEYOND #2 (OF 6) $2.99- Another example of the big twos' attempts to go home again. Though I have to give Marvel credit, their previous nostalgia minis have been mined from bad storylines... or made them dreadfully worse with a new execution. Still making another sequel to the original Secret Wars struck my fancy. I like seeing the contrast of what was once a big event... crossing into all titles... being now a miniseries which seems to relish in knowing that there is nothing of consequence. I mean Spider-Man is killed in the first issue. Yet he is in four other titles doing well. I can't wait until 15 to 20 years from now people are reading "Return to House of M". Wait, 20 years from now... who am I kidding? Be here for it next summer.
SHE-HULK 2 #10 $2.99- Why are you not getting this book? Oh wait, I can stop saying that?! Sales are not too bad? Oh, well, we return to see the fate of resident Marvel creep/ ladies man Star Fox get what's coming to him. Meanwhile all the supporting cast you have come to expect... oh except for the person who dies this issue (or the awesome android) Buuum Buuum Baaaaaaa
SPIDER-MAN FAMILY FEATURING AMAZING FRIENDS $4.99- Ok, so I am getting my nostalgia kicks on this little spin-off of Spider-Man and his Amazing Friends... so what? "Return to House of M" people! I am not sure if I was ever a huge fan of this 80s gem, but I certainly caught a few episodes, and have seen a good chunk recently thanks to ABC Family. But Iceman and Firestar have always been two faves... and this is written by Sean McKeever... not to mention there is a new Chris Giarusso mini marvels. It is pricey, but I dare say I will enjoy the hell out of it.
Well, a short week. I am off to watch some Animaniacs...
Friday, July 21, 2006
Still a Week to Go
Shipping This Week: July 19, 2006
>DC COMICS
JUSTICE LEAGUE OF AMERICA #0 $2.99- If it were any other writer, I probably would have not gotten this book. DC usually fails to get me to buy a book simply because it is new. But this is Brad Meltzer (Identity Crisis... you know before the insane Infinite Crisis). And that book was really great... I never felt to lost. It was a beautiful touching story. It was sort of hype, but I don't mind that if it is a good story. Kind of like if Civil War was just coming out on it's own. They can hype 7 issues to high heck for all I care. Anyway, I just want to see if Meltzer can surprise me again. Maybe this can be my connection to the DC universe (proper). Well, this and Wonder Woman... still can't quite believe I am getting that. Good stuff though.
>MARVEL COMICS
CABLE DEADPOOL #30 CW $2.99- Daredevil appearance, nuff said? Alright... DD and Deadpool meet again. Might be worth a look. Alright, it is worth more than a look it tells who the new DD is, looks to be a pretty big appearance!
CIVIL WAR #3 (OF 7) $2.99- Oh, I can't really say what's going to happen. The pacing on this book is very nice. Like a good action movie, linear but still wild. The sides are being forged, I will be surprised to see where Cap's group of refugees ended up. And I am also surprised to see what the next moves will be. This has me excited.
DAILY BUGLE NEWSPAPER SPECIAL CW PI- I like these newspaper specials, enough that I would almost buy something which highlights the goings ons of titles on a monthly basis. Catching us up on the lives of those in the MU, but then I think it would lose that unique quality. If you just want to dip a toe into Civil War or know someone who does, this should be priced just right.
ETERNALS #2 (OF 6) $3.99- I am loving this book, I finally read issue one the other day. And it is very entertaining and not nearly as overwhelming as I thought. It helps that one of the characters is hopelessly lost when it comes to the mythology aspect too. And what a cliff hanger. Even though I am preordering, and thus tied down to upcoming issues regardless, I still love a good cliffhanger.
FRIENDLY NEIGHBORHOOD SPIDER-MAN #10 $2.99- This is a good book, especially since it broke away from The Other crossover. But there is alot of muttering on the internet, just alot of talk about who dropped it and such, I hope that is not indicative in the sales. The only problem I see is that it embraces continuity. A new reader is going to see Spidey in some pretty strange, but I hope easily readable adventures. It reminds me of when I was given some Spider-Man 2099 comics... and I thought it was just Spider-Man... completely messed with my head. It is high concept but fun, and you can tell Peter David is having fun with the character he started writing for Marvel years and years ago.
RUNAWAYS #18 $2.99- Oh, let's see Vaughan pulled his usual twist cliffhanger. And it blew my mind. Seriously, it just takes the idea of a cliffhanger the usual stuff... somebody dies... stuff like that, and throws a curve ball. He even walks you through it too, you are feeling pretty good, just following along, and BLAM! pulls the rug out.
SHE-HULK 2 #9 $2.99- Oh yes, I remember ... the wedding. Poor Pug. Bastard John. Andy you canniving cuss. Jen, you ignorant slut. (Ok, that was a Saturday Night Live reference) but considering her recent not being in control of her mind, a bit harsh. Anyway if you have no idea what I am talking about. Get the trades. Three great volumes. Take them and call me in the morning.
X-FACTOR #9 CW $2.99- I love me some X-Factor. In fact, if I had one complaint, it would be that I miss the original artist. Quite alot. The book has not been the same quality since he left. Still quite good, but I think it would be liking taking Gaydos off Alias, or Maleev off DD. The team fit the book.
>MAGAZINES
COMICS BUYERS GUIDE OCT 2006 #1621 $5.99- I might have to drop this. I still like it, would still recommend it. I just have not been having time to read it. I am hoping that will change now that I have gone back to twice a month shipping. It really is one of the best comic magazines out there.
>DC COMICS
JUSTICE LEAGUE OF AMERICA #0 $2.99- If it were any other writer, I probably would have not gotten this book. DC usually fails to get me to buy a book simply because it is new. But this is Brad Meltzer (Identity Crisis... you know before the insane Infinite Crisis). And that book was really great... I never felt to lost. It was a beautiful touching story. It was sort of hype, but I don't mind that if it is a good story. Kind of like if Civil War was just coming out on it's own. They can hype 7 issues to high heck for all I care. Anyway, I just want to see if Meltzer can surprise me again. Maybe this can be my connection to the DC universe (proper). Well, this and Wonder Woman... still can't quite believe I am getting that. Good stuff though.
>MARVEL COMICS
CABLE DEADPOOL #30 CW $2.99- Daredevil appearance, nuff said? Alright... DD and Deadpool meet again. Might be worth a look. Alright, it is worth more than a look it tells who the new DD is, looks to be a pretty big appearance!
CIVIL WAR #3 (OF 7) $2.99- Oh, I can't really say what's going to happen. The pacing on this book is very nice. Like a good action movie, linear but still wild. The sides are being forged, I will be surprised to see where Cap's group of refugees ended up. And I am also surprised to see what the next moves will be. This has me excited.
DAILY BUGLE NEWSPAPER SPECIAL CW PI- I like these newspaper specials, enough that I would almost buy something which highlights the goings ons of titles on a monthly basis. Catching us up on the lives of those in the MU, but then I think it would lose that unique quality. If you just want to dip a toe into Civil War or know someone who does, this should be priced just right.
ETERNALS #2 (OF 6) $3.99- I am loving this book, I finally read issue one the other day. And it is very entertaining and not nearly as overwhelming as I thought. It helps that one of the characters is hopelessly lost when it comes to the mythology aspect too. And what a cliff hanger. Even though I am preordering, and thus tied down to upcoming issues regardless, I still love a good cliffhanger.
FRIENDLY NEIGHBORHOOD SPIDER-MAN #10 $2.99- This is a good book, especially since it broke away from The Other crossover. But there is alot of muttering on the internet, just alot of talk about who dropped it and such, I hope that is not indicative in the sales. The only problem I see is that it embraces continuity. A new reader is going to see Spidey in some pretty strange, but I hope easily readable adventures. It reminds me of when I was given some Spider-Man 2099 comics... and I thought it was just Spider-Man... completely messed with my head. It is high concept but fun, and you can tell Peter David is having fun with the character he started writing for Marvel years and years ago.
RUNAWAYS #18 $2.99- Oh, let's see Vaughan pulled his usual twist cliffhanger. And it blew my mind. Seriously, it just takes the idea of a cliffhanger the usual stuff... somebody dies... stuff like that, and throws a curve ball. He even walks you through it too, you are feeling pretty good, just following along, and BLAM! pulls the rug out.
SHE-HULK 2 #9 $2.99- Oh yes, I remember ... the wedding. Poor Pug. Bastard John. Andy you canniving cuss. Jen, you ignorant slut. (Ok, that was a Saturday Night Live reference) but considering her recent not being in control of her mind, a bit harsh. Anyway if you have no idea what I am talking about. Get the trades. Three great volumes. Take them and call me in the morning.
X-FACTOR #9 CW $2.99- I love me some X-Factor. In fact, if I had one complaint, it would be that I miss the original artist. Quite alot. The book has not been the same quality since he left. Still quite good, but I think it would be liking taking Gaydos off Alias, or Maleev off DD. The team fit the book.
>MAGAZINES
COMICS BUYERS GUIDE OCT 2006 #1621 $5.99- I might have to drop this. I still like it, would still recommend it. I just have not been having time to read it. I am hoping that will change now that I have gone back to twice a month shipping. It really is one of the best comic magazines out there.
Saturday, July 15, 2006
What A Saturday
Well, it all started easily enough. My journey to a new comic shop. With the kids gone and B not going to work. We had a more than reasonable start. I didn't have a list of comics to get, but more on that later.
Now, onto the shop. Which we arrived at pretty close to the opening I think. The outside looks fairly... comic book shoppy. In fact it had me a bit dismissive at first. Kind of a "get the boxes and leave" attitude which I was having. And you go in, and that all evaporates, and you are taken aback a bit. By the counter art lines the walls. Which is always neat to see sketches and such. I think there was even an original Terry Moore 'Strangers in Paradise' sketch, if not, someone was very good at aping his style. Now on the left side of the store bookcase line the walls... filled with trades. I was not really looking for trades so I merely scanned that quickly. I am assuming it followed the same pattern as his new released singles (more on that further down). Then you move along and in the center of this trades collection (all spined out by the way, very bookstore) is a shelf full of kids comics. Mary Jane, some Disney, Jubilee, I was v. tempted by the whole display. But managed to pull myself away. And then you look to the right, and the store is putting their own drawer boxes to good use, and you can just feel the space that product gave to the store. No more tables lined with boxes underneath and on top... nope you want a comic you just pull the drawer open and file through. And according to B it is insanely alphabetised.
Then you make a U turn in the store... which was a bit tight. But I underestimated it. And you see the action figures. And on the right wall was all the new releases. And what a display, not light shining down from the heavens, but just the attention to detail. First you had Marvel alphabetical order (beauty) I picked up Ghost Rider, Sensational Spider-Man, and DD what if (which I forgot until I left the store that I had already). Not too bad, but here is where the real genius comes in... as you move along next up are the indies... I picked up Local #4, Flying Friar, and Toupydoops (which I had heard so many good things about). And man did they have indies... wowza. And they kept things like alot of older products up. I was only sad that they did not have Snakewoman. After all that you hit DC issues. There in lies the genius... you kind of have to see those indies.
And they welcome people who might be behind on the series by keeping previous issues right behind the recent ones, I am a huge fan of that. The icing on the cake, I found DD #27 for 5 bucks. The missing issue in my collection of Vol.2. I think we freaked the guy out a bit in a good way. Here came two people off the street. Never seen us before and we walk out with $80 worth of stuff. And I wish I could go again. It is probably the best store I have been to... a love for comics and the meticulous attention required to keep a great store.
Is that all you ask? Did the day end there? Not hardly. B wanted to go to a mall in the city. So, I agreed... she wanted to get a dress for some pictures. As luck would have it, we got there during a mall wide sale. So I got two ten dollar shirts. And we did alot of wandering... dress shopping is grueling. But I was in pretty good spirits. And it was not long before we hit a bookstore, an oasis, as it were. Now, even I thought I was pretty comic booked out. So it was just supposed to be a break for me... I was tired of women staring at me like I was the wheelchair perv. But, I got in and found more than I bargained for... the Vertigo First Offenses trade... 5 bucks I would be a fool to pass it up. Then if B had not taken so long, I would not have also gotten the Essential Marvel Handbook. *sigh*
After that, we finally headed home. What a day, eh?
Now, onto the shop. Which we arrived at pretty close to the opening I think. The outside looks fairly... comic book shoppy. In fact it had me a bit dismissive at first. Kind of a "get the boxes and leave" attitude which I was having. And you go in, and that all evaporates, and you are taken aback a bit. By the counter art lines the walls. Which is always neat to see sketches and such. I think there was even an original Terry Moore 'Strangers in Paradise' sketch, if not, someone was very good at aping his style. Now on the left side of the store bookcase line the walls... filled with trades. I was not really looking for trades so I merely scanned that quickly. I am assuming it followed the same pattern as his new released singles (more on that further down). Then you move along and in the center of this trades collection (all spined out by the way, very bookstore) is a shelf full of kids comics. Mary Jane, some Disney, Jubilee, I was v. tempted by the whole display. But managed to pull myself away. And then you look to the right, and the store is putting their own drawer boxes to good use, and you can just feel the space that product gave to the store. No more tables lined with boxes underneath and on top... nope you want a comic you just pull the drawer open and file through. And according to B it is insanely alphabetised.
Then you make a U turn in the store... which was a bit tight. But I underestimated it. And you see the action figures. And on the right wall was all the new releases. And what a display, not light shining down from the heavens, but just the attention to detail. First you had Marvel alphabetical order (beauty) I picked up Ghost Rider, Sensational Spider-Man, and DD what if (which I forgot until I left the store that I had already). Not too bad, but here is where the real genius comes in... as you move along next up are the indies... I picked up Local #4, Flying Friar, and Toupydoops (which I had heard so many good things about). And man did they have indies... wowza. And they kept things like alot of older products up. I was only sad that they did not have Snakewoman. After all that you hit DC issues. There in lies the genius... you kind of have to see those indies.
And they welcome people who might be behind on the series by keeping previous issues right behind the recent ones, I am a huge fan of that. The icing on the cake, I found DD #27 for 5 bucks. The missing issue in my collection of Vol.2. I think we freaked the guy out a bit in a good way. Here came two people off the street. Never seen us before and we walk out with $80 worth of stuff. And I wish I could go again. It is probably the best store I have been to... a love for comics and the meticulous attention required to keep a great store.
Is that all you ask? Did the day end there? Not hardly. B wanted to go to a mall in the city. So, I agreed... she wanted to get a dress for some pictures. As luck would have it, we got there during a mall wide sale. So I got two ten dollar shirts. And we did alot of wandering... dress shopping is grueling. But I was in pretty good spirits. And it was not long before we hit a bookstore, an oasis, as it were. Now, even I thought I was pretty comic booked out. So it was just supposed to be a break for me... I was tired of women staring at me like I was the wheelchair perv. But, I got in and found more than I bargained for... the Vertigo First Offenses trade... 5 bucks I would be a fool to pass it up. Then if B had not taken so long, I would not have also gotten the Essential Marvel Handbook. *sigh*
After that, we finally headed home. What a day, eh?
Thursday, July 13, 2006
Another Comic Getting Monday
DARK HORSE COMICS
ESCAPISTS #1 (OF 6) $1.00- Look at that price! One Dollar. And there is no mistaking this will be worth it. From writer Brian K. Vaughan (Runaways), comes another comic book follow-up to The Adventures of Kavalier and Clay. And I, for one, have been waiting a long time. Before this, Dark Horse tried the anthology approach and had various creators penning the adventures of the Escapist and all related topics. And while there are certainly gems to be found, I thought the price point was just too high. And now the story will be a clear, solid and follow a similar route which the novel took, embracing the stories of fictional creators and their comic book characters. Give it a try, it might even be the best comic of the week.
MARVEL COMICS
KABUKI REFLECTIONS BOOK #6 (MR) $5.99- Alright take your focus off of that six dollar price tag. Because it is irrelevant, this book needs to be picked up and enjoyed. I remember watching an old movie, and it was a story of a newspaper man wanting to out the local fat cat businessman. Showing where he was charging too much, all for a big scoop. And when the two met, the businessman said, "My products are used and enjoyed over and over again, and after time the use exceeds the price paid." That logic can be put to this book, everyone will take something different away, and it is more than worth the price. It is a rare glimpse into a great comic.
SENSATIONAL SPIDER-MAN #28 $2.99- I dropped this book not too long ago. The art didn't thrill me, and neither did the story. But that arc has since moved along. And I figured this title would be back on the pull list. Well, Marvel got me a bit to early, with the outing of Spider-Man. I suddenly want to know every aspect of what is unfolding as a result of his unmasking. Hopefully, I don't get fooled twice.
INDY COMICS
COBB OFF THE LEASH #2 $3.99- I am going to (quite wrongly) take the fact that this doesn't say 2 (of 3) to mean this might not be a mini. That would make me very happy, indeed. This is a top notch indy title. The art is great, the writing is great, and most of all, it is clear what type of book you are getting. I hope there is lots of support this for this action comic.
JUGHEADS DOUBLE DIGEST #123 $3.69- *whistles*
SNAKEWOMAN #1 $2.99- This is one I might have to go out of my way to snag this weekend when I hit a shop. I completely missed that the art was being done by the highly talented Michael Gaydos. That makes it certainly worth a look.
Yeah, that's it. Let me know what you thought if you picked any of these up. Or what other stuff caught your eye this week.
ESCAPISTS #1 (OF 6) $1.00- Look at that price! One Dollar. And there is no mistaking this will be worth it. From writer Brian K. Vaughan (Runaways), comes another comic book follow-up to The Adventures of Kavalier and Clay. And I, for one, have been waiting a long time. Before this, Dark Horse tried the anthology approach and had various creators penning the adventures of the Escapist and all related topics. And while there are certainly gems to be found, I thought the price point was just too high. And now the story will be a clear, solid and follow a similar route which the novel took, embracing the stories of fictional creators and their comic book characters. Give it a try, it might even be the best comic of the week.
MARVEL COMICS
KABUKI REFLECTIONS BOOK #6 (MR) $5.99- Alright take your focus off of that six dollar price tag. Because it is irrelevant, this book needs to be picked up and enjoyed. I remember watching an old movie, and it was a story of a newspaper man wanting to out the local fat cat businessman. Showing where he was charging too much, all for a big scoop. And when the two met, the businessman said, "My products are used and enjoyed over and over again, and after time the use exceeds the price paid." That logic can be put to this book, everyone will take something different away, and it is more than worth the price. It is a rare glimpse into a great comic.
SENSATIONAL SPIDER-MAN #28 $2.99- I dropped this book not too long ago. The art didn't thrill me, and neither did the story. But that arc has since moved along. And I figured this title would be back on the pull list. Well, Marvel got me a bit to early, with the outing of Spider-Man. I suddenly want to know every aspect of what is unfolding as a result of his unmasking. Hopefully, I don't get fooled twice.
INDY COMICS
COBB OFF THE LEASH #2 $3.99- I am going to (quite wrongly) take the fact that this doesn't say 2 (of 3) to mean this might not be a mini. That would make me very happy, indeed. This is a top notch indy title. The art is great, the writing is great, and most of all, it is clear what type of book you are getting. I hope there is lots of support this for this action comic.
JUGHEADS DOUBLE DIGEST #123 $3.69- *whistles*
SNAKEWOMAN #1 $2.99- This is one I might have to go out of my way to snag this weekend when I hit a shop. I completely missed that the art was being done by the highly talented Michael Gaydos. That makes it certainly worth a look.
Yeah, that's it. Let me know what you thought if you picked any of these up. Or what other stuff caught your eye this week.
Friday, July 07, 2006
Comics At My Door
Shipping This Week: July 5, 2006
DARK HORSE
ARCHENEMIES #4 (OF 4) $2.99- I have read the first issue of this and it was a good comic with a fun idea. What if your roommate was your archenemy? It's the odd couple of the superhero sets. I hope to catch up to issues two and three before my package ships in a week and a half.
DARK HORSE TWENTY YEARS $0.25- I would be remiss if I didn't pick this up. It looks to be at least nice on the eyes, with various Darkhorse creators trading off characters and adding new styles.
DC COMICS
DETECTIVE COMICS #821 $2.99- The beginning of the Paul Dini (co-creator of Batman: The Animated Series), and it took that and the addition of J. H. Williams III to finally get me to pick up a Batman solo title. I was only slightly letdown in learning that this is the only issue for JHW, but it should be a good read.
MARVEL COMICS
BEYOND #1 (OF 6) $2.99- Dwayne McDuffie and Scott Kolins take on this mini that is a sequel to Secret Wars. Or an addition to at least. Yes, that's right, the original Secret Wars. And Dwayne McDuffie is a quality writer who is likely up to the task. Here's hoping it woos me more than Bendis's mini did.
FRANKLIN RICHARDS SUPER SUMMER SPECTACULAR $2.99- Wonderful run of one shots and kid-friendly. I would say they were strictly for kids, but I like them to much. Starting off as back ups for (and being the highlight of) the Power Pack series that came out. I was glad to see this get the break away treatment. And I hope it continues to take off.
MARVEL ADVENTURES SPIDER-MAN #17 $2.99- The return of MA Spidey after, I think a two issue hiatus. Such is the way with this title I think. I had also taken a hiatus when it started, and then Sean McKeever came aboard and knocked my socks off. Not two issues off and it announced that Peter David will be writing Spider-Man. Want a safe bet for a good read, anything Peter David and Spider-Man. I am even picking up an issue with Man-Wolf. And werewolves terrify me.
MARVEL TEAM-UP #22 $2.99- Freedom Ring continues. And Robert Kirkman continues to show why he is one (of a growing number) of breakout writers working at Marvel. And this is his best arc yet, as he finds an everyman character, and plays it out. While this does tie into previous issues of Marvel Team-Up, it would still be fine to read on its own. Not sure if the new character introduced will take off, but I hope so. I like seeing amature heroes.
THING #8 $2.99- This is it, the big finale. And it's going down by betting it all. On a Marvel Universe poker game. All the heroes are invited. And knowing writer Dan Slott. I am betting all of them will. This is an issue where there is a first for the Marvel U. Don't know what that first will be, but I am excited. *gasp* I just realised, I have not read issue 7. I got as far as Ben Grimm breaking the arms off of the Venus De Milo. It's a tired joke, but I dare you to read that first page and not chuckle. And while you are doing that, buy issue 8!
COMICS
JUGHEAD AND FRIENDS DIGEST #12 $2.49- Jughead, nuff said!
MIDNIGHT SUN #1 (OF 5) $2.95- Ah, my indy dose right here. Sometimes with the indies you have to think really hard about what interested you in the title. They don't have press releases for every little thing. If I recall this series is about a reporter in Antartica... anyway it has a very nice Blankets style, which I am a sucker for. Love the simple elegance there.
SIMPSONS SUPER SPECTACULAR #3 $2.99- Ah Simpson's own parody superhero comic. I fell in love with this book when I saw issue 2 at a bookstore. Great stuff, and often written by some big names in the industry. I can't wait for three, and I can't wait to track down issue one.
TALENT #2 (OF 4) $3.99- The first issue of this title certainly surprised me. I was expecting to love the art. It is done by (I am sure) a soon to be talked about artist, Paul Azaceta. But the story is quite compelling to. A man is inexplicably the lone survivor of a plane crash. The government assumes he must have been a terrorist who helped to cause the crash. He is hassled before he even leaves a hospital bed. Along the way, he finds he has inherited the talents and memories associated with everyone else who was on the plane. Definetly worth a look, and I hear might even become a movie. I am hard pressed nowadays to think of any creative property that isn't, but ah well.
Books that really sucker punched me: Daredevil, Runaways, Ultimates, and Young Avengers
DARK HORSE
ARCHENEMIES #4 (OF 4) $2.99- I have read the first issue of this and it was a good comic with a fun idea. What if your roommate was your archenemy? It's the odd couple of the superhero sets. I hope to catch up to issues two and three before my package ships in a week and a half.
DARK HORSE TWENTY YEARS $0.25- I would be remiss if I didn't pick this up. It looks to be at least nice on the eyes, with various Darkhorse creators trading off characters and adding new styles.
DC COMICS
DETECTIVE COMICS #821 $2.99- The beginning of the Paul Dini (co-creator of Batman: The Animated Series), and it took that and the addition of J. H. Williams III to finally get me to pick up a Batman solo title. I was only slightly letdown in learning that this is the only issue for JHW, but it should be a good read.
MARVEL COMICS
BEYOND #1 (OF 6) $2.99- Dwayne McDuffie and Scott Kolins take on this mini that is a sequel to Secret Wars. Or an addition to at least. Yes, that's right, the original Secret Wars. And Dwayne McDuffie is a quality writer who is likely up to the task. Here's hoping it woos me more than Bendis's mini did.
FRANKLIN RICHARDS SUPER SUMMER SPECTACULAR $2.99- Wonderful run of one shots and kid-friendly. I would say they were strictly for kids, but I like them to much. Starting off as back ups for (and being the highlight of) the Power Pack series that came out. I was glad to see this get the break away treatment. And I hope it continues to take off.
MARVEL ADVENTURES SPIDER-MAN #17 $2.99- The return of MA Spidey after, I think a two issue hiatus. Such is the way with this title I think. I had also taken a hiatus when it started, and then Sean McKeever came aboard and knocked my socks off. Not two issues off and it announced that Peter David will be writing Spider-Man. Want a safe bet for a good read, anything Peter David and Spider-Man. I am even picking up an issue with Man-Wolf. And werewolves terrify me.
MARVEL TEAM-UP #22 $2.99- Freedom Ring continues. And Robert Kirkman continues to show why he is one (of a growing number) of breakout writers working at Marvel. And this is his best arc yet, as he finds an everyman character, and plays it out. While this does tie into previous issues of Marvel Team-Up, it would still be fine to read on its own. Not sure if the new character introduced will take off, but I hope so. I like seeing amature heroes.
THING #8 $2.99- This is it, the big finale. And it's going down by betting it all. On a Marvel Universe poker game. All the heroes are invited. And knowing writer Dan Slott. I am betting all of them will. This is an issue where there is a first for the Marvel U. Don't know what that first will be, but I am excited. *gasp* I just realised, I have not read issue 7. I got as far as Ben Grimm breaking the arms off of the Venus De Milo. It's a tired joke, but I dare you to read that first page and not chuckle. And while you are doing that, buy issue 8!
COMICS
JUGHEAD AND FRIENDS DIGEST #12 $2.49- Jughead, nuff said!
MIDNIGHT SUN #1 (OF 5) $2.95- Ah, my indy dose right here. Sometimes with the indies you have to think really hard about what interested you in the title. They don't have press releases for every little thing. If I recall this series is about a reporter in Antartica... anyway it has a very nice Blankets style, which I am a sucker for. Love the simple elegance there.
SIMPSONS SUPER SPECTACULAR #3 $2.99- Ah Simpson's own parody superhero comic. I fell in love with this book when I saw issue 2 at a bookstore. Great stuff, and often written by some big names in the industry. I can't wait for three, and I can't wait to track down issue one.
TALENT #2 (OF 4) $3.99- The first issue of this title certainly surprised me. I was expecting to love the art. It is done by (I am sure) a soon to be talked about artist, Paul Azaceta. But the story is quite compelling to. A man is inexplicably the lone survivor of a plane crash. The government assumes he must have been a terrorist who helped to cause the crash. He is hassled before he even leaves a hospital bed. Along the way, he finds he has inherited the talents and memories associated with everyone else who was on the plane. Definetly worth a look, and I hear might even become a movie. I am hard pressed nowadays to think of any creative property that isn't, but ah well.
Books that really sucker punched me: Daredevil, Runaways, Ultimates, and Young Avengers
Monday, July 03, 2006
The Spell Is Broken
Well, seeing as how there are no reviews of Gargoyles #1 that I could find (and since I finally have it) I thought I might give a review. Within the first few pages fans of the series will be taken back, to the point of hearing each characters distinctive voices in their head. And why not? The creator and writer for the majority of the episodes is at the helm here. I think it says something when a writer can make each character unique beyond surface design, and to do so within a comic also must be praised.
I will say that I don't believe this first issue is as perfect for new readers. There are some elements that are merely touched upon. Some moments that are purely for the fans. Now that is not to say that a quick search on Wikipedia could not set you straight. Or that even this review could not do the same. So it was a worthy effort in that respect.
One change I did notice in the writing which gave a subtly more adult tone to the book (if one needs such things as an indicator) was the near inclusion of the words "Monster loving wh-" directed at a human female friend of the Gargoyle leader. It is small potatoes in today's comics, however, this was certainly a level that I cannot recall the Disney cartoon having.
Another bit of background that should have been included for new readers was the pathetic tactics of the villians at hand. Gargoyles have one very prominent weakness, and that is that they can be turned to stone. The villians which were featured in this issue only attack gargoyles during the day, basically they go out with a hood and a sledge hammer and get to work smashing statues. Now that is alot of statues when one considers that there are only 8 or 9 living Gargoyles left in this section of the US (and maybe in the US entirely). But all the same it shows a cowardice that would be very much relatable to a new readers. The bully which is fearful of something and would only seek to destroy it when no harm can come to them. That could all still be explored next issue or in future issues.
I would also not mind an issue #0 a bit of a meatier summary of what has happened to the Gargoyles before this issue. I suppose the page summary given might intice new readers to seek out the DVDs available, but I don't think so. Now, onto the art. Where this seems to fail with me, is that it feels quite back and forth at times. Sometimes adopting an animated simpler style, but more often than not, opting to give a more 3-D realistic look. Which came across to me as awkward in most panels. It is likely a bit of familarity lost... as I just kept thinking, this is too much, it doesn't really look like so and so anymore. But on the whole it did quite well, and I think conveyed each of the previous characters well enough. Especially in those introductory shots ... the first time I would see certain characters I would think, Wow, that looks spot on. And then in the panels that followed it would not be the case. The coloring is also excellent, and seems to fluxuate more succesfully between the changes of style.
One thing that sticks out about Gargoyles for me, and in this comic too. Is that conflict is always there. The leader (Goliath) has trouble with one of his charges, in particular. And in a new world with new rules, Goliath is often risking more, while demanding isolation from others.
I think the romance between Goliath and his human friend will increase. There is a strong vulnerability there. Not alot can hurt him, but knowing that she risks her life even being aware of his existence. For such a behemoth of a creature, I have always found that he conveyed weakness and emotion quite well.
All in all, you could do a lot, lot worse then Gargoyles. And I know I have a bias, but this is probably one of the strongest indy issues I have purchased. As the writer says on the final text pages "a hard hitting drama with influnces ranging from Gummi Bears to Hill Street Blues to the complete works of William Shakespeare. There is continuity, a large ensemble cast of characters (heroes yest but three dimensional villains and everything in between). There is comedy. There is tragedy. There is romance and heartbreak. And of course, lots and lost of action."
Ultimately I could see this comic surpassing what has come before. And becoming a comic for kids and adults. It's off to a fine start.
I will say that I don't believe this first issue is as perfect for new readers. There are some elements that are merely touched upon. Some moments that are purely for the fans. Now that is not to say that a quick search on Wikipedia could not set you straight. Or that even this review could not do the same. So it was a worthy effort in that respect.
One change I did notice in the writing which gave a subtly more adult tone to the book (if one needs such things as an indicator) was the near inclusion of the words "Monster loving wh-" directed at a human female friend of the Gargoyle leader. It is small potatoes in today's comics, however, this was certainly a level that I cannot recall the Disney cartoon having.
Another bit of background that should have been included for new readers was the pathetic tactics of the villians at hand. Gargoyles have one very prominent weakness, and that is that they can be turned to stone. The villians which were featured in this issue only attack gargoyles during the day, basically they go out with a hood and a sledge hammer and get to work smashing statues. Now that is alot of statues when one considers that there are only 8 or 9 living Gargoyles left in this section of the US (and maybe in the US entirely). But all the same it shows a cowardice that would be very much relatable to a new readers. The bully which is fearful of something and would only seek to destroy it when no harm can come to them. That could all still be explored next issue or in future issues.
I would also not mind an issue #0 a bit of a meatier summary of what has happened to the Gargoyles before this issue. I suppose the page summary given might intice new readers to seek out the DVDs available, but I don't think so. Now, onto the art. Where this seems to fail with me, is that it feels quite back and forth at times. Sometimes adopting an animated simpler style, but more often than not, opting to give a more 3-D realistic look. Which came across to me as awkward in most panels. It is likely a bit of familarity lost... as I just kept thinking, this is too much, it doesn't really look like so and so anymore. But on the whole it did quite well, and I think conveyed each of the previous characters well enough. Especially in those introductory shots ... the first time I would see certain characters I would think, Wow, that looks spot on. And then in the panels that followed it would not be the case. The coloring is also excellent, and seems to fluxuate more succesfully between the changes of style.
One thing that sticks out about Gargoyles for me, and in this comic too. Is that conflict is always there. The leader (Goliath) has trouble with one of his charges, in particular. And in a new world with new rules, Goliath is often risking more, while demanding isolation from others.
I think the romance between Goliath and his human friend will increase. There is a strong vulnerability there. Not alot can hurt him, but knowing that she risks her life even being aware of his existence. For such a behemoth of a creature, I have always found that he conveyed weakness and emotion quite well.
All in all, you could do a lot, lot worse then Gargoyles. And I know I have a bias, but this is probably one of the strongest indy issues I have purchased. As the writer says on the final text pages "a hard hitting drama with influnces ranging from Gummi Bears to Hill Street Blues to the complete works of William Shakespeare. There is continuity, a large ensemble cast of characters (heroes yest but three dimensional villains and everything in between). There is comedy. There is tragedy. There is romance and heartbreak. And of course, lots and lost of action."
Ultimately I could see this comic surpassing what has come before. And becoming a comic for kids and adults. It's off to a fine start.
Friday, June 30, 2006
Comics to Ship (Today?)
DC COMICS
LOVELESS #8 (MR) $2.99- I am not sure why I decided to start getting Loveless. Perhaps it was in that quest to find that perfect comic book for my father. (I am one of those people who leans toward the idea that there is a comic for everyone). However, I quickly found that Loveless and the characters and stories within were something special. A western focus is out of the ordinary from one of the big two anyway, and an expertly constructed one, with passion and focus for the genre. Well, this might be truly unique. And well worth a read.
MARVEL
AMAZING SPIDER-MAN #533 CW $2.99- This has to be one of Strazynski's (writer) strongest arcs. Not because it has the most buzz. Or because it is the most passionate. But because it is structured well, and grounded in reality. If you have been reading this title, you know that Spidey has been in some pretty unbelievable stories. This is a breath of fresh air for the title. And for Civil War readers, a nice companion title.
DAREDEVIL #86 $2.99- This title... *drool* it has finally started putting Daredevil at the top of my read pile. I am in no way saying it was not of very high quality before the new team started. But something about this run has lit a spark in me, that I haven't felt since Kesel's run on DD... I think it might be the idea that anything can happen, and if you blink you might miss it.
NEW AVENGERS #21 CW $2.99- Didn't I just talk about this title last week, it sure feels like it. I think somebody hit the nail on the head in a review I read, which is that New Avengers tries to be and do too much, it was the resolution to Avengers Disassembled, which led to House of M, it dealt with Secret War, and now Civil War. And I hate to say it, but it is hard to do that... with a team full of personalities to pin down. Bendis needs to give himself and his title time to breathe, and maybe create that makes this title relevant to itself.
NEXTWAVE AGENTS OF HATE #6 $2.99- This is a pretty good example. There is not a thing that has happened in Nextwave that I can tie to any other title currently, and maybe that gives it a cult solidarity. But it works.
RUNAWAYS #17 $2.99- If you aren't picking this up, nothing I can say will convince you. This is a quality title, and has been for nearly 36 issues. I have put down every issue, and immediately wanted to know what happened next.
This hits on all cylinders (whatever that means). Give it a read! Hey, I said I couldn't convince you, doesn't mean I won't try.
SPIDER-MAN LOVES MARY JANE #7 $2.99- I would say something generic such as "Hey, I only get it cause it's Spider-Man." I try not to read comics like that. Buy what you like. And I like this book. I mean if Spider-Man the movie can feature the strong romantic theme that it does, why can't one of the comics do that too?
WOLVERINE #43 CW $2.99- I love Wolverine when he is focused. When he is all about doing what needs to be done. If it suits the character ... run with it. I don't want to see Wolverine and Punisher moping around a coffee house. I want to see them indulging in the darker side of vengeance. Reminding readers exactly why you don't want to be on that particular side. And Wolverine is the only one actually hunting for a guy who blew up a bus full of school children. Gotta love that.
X-FACTOR #8 CW $2.99- Not at all sure how this ties into Civil War. But this is one of the best books on the shelf. And I don't think I have ever said that about a book with an X in the title. Heed these words and know them well, Peter David tells some good yarns. If you see his name on a book, and you don't like it. You probably would not have liked that book written by anyone.
YOUNG AVENGERS #12 $2.99- Cha-ching. I have to say, this has been a book on a very wonky schedule. So, its conclusion is almost bittersweet. I hope the next time this title comes out, it might be just a bit more timely. A very good book, and likely will make a veeery good hardcover.
JUGHEAD #174 $2.25- I have explained my fondness for Jughead. I like the character. This is the comic I would buy if I could buy only one... blah blah. It just entertains me on a base level. Makes me happy everytime I go to read it.
VILLAINS #2 (OF 4) (MR) $3.25- I have no idea about this book. First issue is coming in this next shipment... I suppose it might be nice to read one and two together, except I don't think that two is coming in this shipment. Not sure what is going on there.
LOVELESS #8 (MR) $2.99- I am not sure why I decided to start getting Loveless. Perhaps it was in that quest to find that perfect comic book for my father. (I am one of those people who leans toward the idea that there is a comic for everyone). However, I quickly found that Loveless and the characters and stories within were something special. A western focus is out of the ordinary from one of the big two anyway, and an expertly constructed one, with passion and focus for the genre. Well, this might be truly unique. And well worth a read.
MARVEL
AMAZING SPIDER-MAN #533 CW $2.99- This has to be one of Strazynski's (writer) strongest arcs. Not because it has the most buzz. Or because it is the most passionate. But because it is structured well, and grounded in reality. If you have been reading this title, you know that Spidey has been in some pretty unbelievable stories. This is a breath of fresh air for the title. And for Civil War readers, a nice companion title.
DAREDEVIL #86 $2.99- This title... *drool* it has finally started putting Daredevil at the top of my read pile. I am in no way saying it was not of very high quality before the new team started. But something about this run has lit a spark in me, that I haven't felt since Kesel's run on DD... I think it might be the idea that anything can happen, and if you blink you might miss it.
NEW AVENGERS #21 CW $2.99- Didn't I just talk about this title last week, it sure feels like it. I think somebody hit the nail on the head in a review I read, which is that New Avengers tries to be and do too much, it was the resolution to Avengers Disassembled, which led to House of M, it dealt with Secret War, and now Civil War. And I hate to say it, but it is hard to do that... with a team full of personalities to pin down. Bendis needs to give himself and his title time to breathe, and maybe create that makes this title relevant to itself.
NEXTWAVE AGENTS OF HATE #6 $2.99- This is a pretty good example. There is not a thing that has happened in Nextwave that I can tie to any other title currently, and maybe that gives it a cult solidarity. But it works.
RUNAWAYS #17 $2.99- If you aren't picking this up, nothing I can say will convince you. This is a quality title, and has been for nearly 36 issues. I have put down every issue, and immediately wanted to know what happened next.
This hits on all cylinders (whatever that means). Give it a read! Hey, I said I couldn't convince you, doesn't mean I won't try.
SPIDER-MAN LOVES MARY JANE #7 $2.99- I would say something generic such as "Hey, I only get it cause it's Spider-Man." I try not to read comics like that. Buy what you like. And I like this book. I mean if Spider-Man the movie can feature the strong romantic theme that it does, why can't one of the comics do that too?
WOLVERINE #43 CW $2.99- I love Wolverine when he is focused. When he is all about doing what needs to be done. If it suits the character ... run with it. I don't want to see Wolverine and Punisher moping around a coffee house. I want to see them indulging in the darker side of vengeance. Reminding readers exactly why you don't want to be on that particular side. And Wolverine is the only one actually hunting for a guy who blew up a bus full of school children. Gotta love that.
X-FACTOR #8 CW $2.99- Not at all sure how this ties into Civil War. But this is one of the best books on the shelf. And I don't think I have ever said that about a book with an X in the title. Heed these words and know them well, Peter David tells some good yarns. If you see his name on a book, and you don't like it. You probably would not have liked that book written by anyone.
YOUNG AVENGERS #12 $2.99- Cha-ching. I have to say, this has been a book on a very wonky schedule. So, its conclusion is almost bittersweet. I hope the next time this title comes out, it might be just a bit more timely. A very good book, and likely will make a veeery good hardcover.
JUGHEAD #174 $2.25- I have explained my fondness for Jughead. I like the character. This is the comic I would buy if I could buy only one... blah blah. It just entertains me on a base level. Makes me happy everytime I go to read it.
VILLAINS #2 (OF 4) (MR) $3.25- I have no idea about this book. First issue is coming in this next shipment... I suppose it might be nice to read one and two together, except I don't think that two is coming in this shipment. Not sure what is going on there.
Saturday, June 24, 2006
Comics at my Doorstep
It's been awhile since I did this sort of thing. Where I talk about the comics I was going to get in a certain week. And discuss, expectations of storylines and such. Or why I am still getting that title that hasn't really been hitting the right notes. This is last week's comic offerings. I know for those getting them weekly this seems a bit late, but I won't get this and next week's comics until sometime after July 4th.
DC COMICS
ALL STAR SUPERMAN #4 $2.99- There is very little DC that I get, and of what I do, it is very easy to drop a title at moments of lost interest. All-Star Superman is one of the few titles to which I will give the benefit of the doubt. It has solid storytelling by Grant Morrison. And fantastic art by Frank Quitely. Both of those names carry along praise and accolades. But more than that, this is the Superman story, that you know they wanted to do. Grant has said as much, and Frank has said he wanted to be along for the ride. The passion is there, the detail is there, and it feels like the writer is really pulling no punches. Always entertaining, with a modern take on the zaniness that can sometimes come along with that big red S. This is the perfect amount of Superman for me.
JUSTICE #6 (OF 12) $3.50- I got this book because of the art of the phenominal Alex Ross. I haven't regretted getting it yet. It is a huge story, shadowing that of Secret War (or even Civil War). Where it should lose character moments... it only further solidifies everyone's personality, because the glimpses of the characters that you see are spot on. I won't say this adds realism to the Ultimate Superhero/ Supervillian showdown, but it is certainly not a story I would not mind seeing. It has the simmering boil of a story portrayed by Brian Michael Bendis, with the fantastic elements of a Dan Slott or Mark Millar story. In fact the only fault I can hold to it, is that I don't know all the DC characters that well to enjoy it on the level that others might.
MARVEL
ETERNALS #1 (OF 6) $3.99- This is probably the intimate event comic of the summer for me. I missed out on 1602 when it was hitting the shelves, I won't make that mistake again. Neil Gaiman and John Romita Jr. are painting what looks to be a wonderful mix of (perhaps mistaken) mythology and superheroics. And I can't wait to see what results. Sometimes the best stories are with characters that you knew very little about.
NEW AVENGERS #20 $2.99- This is one of those books, that I hesitate to read, and maybe doesn't stick with me, or even get the credit that I give to books like Runaways or Young Avengers. Nonetheless, it is solid storytelling by Bendis. And I always enjoy it.
ULTIMATES 2 #11 $2.99- How long has it been? It feels like far too long. Ultimates is everything the Avengers should be. The team is falling apart. The idealism is crashing on its head. If you ever wanted to see what happens when the road paved with good intentions, is done so by super heroes... this is the book. This is one of those maturely layered books, with the outrageous action one expects from Mark Millar. And it is the only Ultimate title that I read.
FALLEN ANGEL IDW #6 $3.99- I am so glad I support this book. What was failing sales when Fallen Angel was at DC. Have now become a goldmine for IDW. And with good reason. This a complex and beautifully illustrated book. Sometimes funny, sometimes dark... always a good read. First trade comes out in... August. And look for that IDW logo, as DC also suspiciously reissued their first and only trade of Fallen Angel as well.
GARGOYLES #1 $3.50- Wow.... to say I have been anticipating this would be a big understatement. The problem with preordering comics is that you are anxious months before it is even solicited. In this case probably several months. Gargoyles was a Disney cartoon series released in the mid 90s. And it had alot going for it. Compelling mythical creatures cast into modern day. With a backstory as fascinating and wonderful. Likeable characters. It was a glorified hit. And most importantly it didn't talk down to kids. Then Season 2 came... and it pulled no punches. Embracing fantastic literary elements of the past... Arthurian lore, Macbeth, and most notably A Midsummer Night's Dream. Just to name a very few. It embraced imagination and continues to do so with an annual convention (this weekend being its 9th year) and a devoted fanbase that is still going strong. The show's creator has returned to pen this very series... if you want something smart and character driven, and still a great read for kids. This will likely be that series.
LOVE AND CAPES #1 $3.95- I have heard so many good things about this book, it was even linked to my site for awhile. Anytime one of these indy guys can tell me about their book beforehand, and I like the concept, I am in. Which is what happened here, this guy spread the word, and the romantic comedy with superheroes... I like what I saw. I hope others did as well.
And since I want to pique Gargoyles interest a bit more here is a link to more info on the comic, I might also post reviews as I can find them.
DC COMICS
ALL STAR SUPERMAN #4 $2.99- There is very little DC that I get, and of what I do, it is very easy to drop a title at moments of lost interest. All-Star Superman is one of the few titles to which I will give the benefit of the doubt. It has solid storytelling by Grant Morrison. And fantastic art by Frank Quitely. Both of those names carry along praise and accolades. But more than that, this is the Superman story, that you know they wanted to do. Grant has said as much, and Frank has said he wanted to be along for the ride. The passion is there, the detail is there, and it feels like the writer is really pulling no punches. Always entertaining, with a modern take on the zaniness that can sometimes come along with that big red S. This is the perfect amount of Superman for me.
JUSTICE #6 (OF 12) $3.50- I got this book because of the art of the phenominal Alex Ross. I haven't regretted getting it yet. It is a huge story, shadowing that of Secret War (or even Civil War). Where it should lose character moments... it only further solidifies everyone's personality, because the glimpses of the characters that you see are spot on. I won't say this adds realism to the Ultimate Superhero/ Supervillian showdown, but it is certainly not a story I would not mind seeing. It has the simmering boil of a story portrayed by Brian Michael Bendis, with the fantastic elements of a Dan Slott or Mark Millar story. In fact the only fault I can hold to it, is that I don't know all the DC characters that well to enjoy it on the level that others might.
MARVEL
ETERNALS #1 (OF 6) $3.99- This is probably the intimate event comic of the summer for me. I missed out on 1602 when it was hitting the shelves, I won't make that mistake again. Neil Gaiman and John Romita Jr. are painting what looks to be a wonderful mix of (perhaps mistaken) mythology and superheroics. And I can't wait to see what results. Sometimes the best stories are with characters that you knew very little about.
NEW AVENGERS #20 $2.99- This is one of those books, that I hesitate to read, and maybe doesn't stick with me, or even get the credit that I give to books like Runaways or Young Avengers. Nonetheless, it is solid storytelling by Bendis. And I always enjoy it.
ULTIMATES 2 #11 $2.99- How long has it been? It feels like far too long. Ultimates is everything the Avengers should be. The team is falling apart. The idealism is crashing on its head. If you ever wanted to see what happens when the road paved with good intentions, is done so by super heroes... this is the book. This is one of those maturely layered books, with the outrageous action one expects from Mark Millar. And it is the only Ultimate title that I read.
FALLEN ANGEL IDW #6 $3.99- I am so glad I support this book. What was failing sales when Fallen Angel was at DC. Have now become a goldmine for IDW. And with good reason. This a complex and beautifully illustrated book. Sometimes funny, sometimes dark... always a good read. First trade comes out in... August. And look for that IDW logo, as DC also suspiciously reissued their first and only trade of Fallen Angel as well.
GARGOYLES #1 $3.50- Wow.... to say I have been anticipating this would be a big understatement. The problem with preordering comics is that you are anxious months before it is even solicited. In this case probably several months. Gargoyles was a Disney cartoon series released in the mid 90s. And it had alot going for it. Compelling mythical creatures cast into modern day. With a backstory as fascinating and wonderful. Likeable characters. It was a glorified hit. And most importantly it didn't talk down to kids. Then Season 2 came... and it pulled no punches. Embracing fantastic literary elements of the past... Arthurian lore, Macbeth, and most notably A Midsummer Night's Dream. Just to name a very few. It embraced imagination and continues to do so with an annual convention (this weekend being its 9th year) and a devoted fanbase that is still going strong. The show's creator has returned to pen this very series... if you want something smart and character driven, and still a great read for kids. This will likely be that series.
LOVE AND CAPES #1 $3.95- I have heard so many good things about this book, it was even linked to my site for awhile. Anytime one of these indy guys can tell me about their book beforehand, and I like the concept, I am in. Which is what happened here, this guy spread the word, and the romantic comedy with superheroes... I like what I saw. I hope others did as well.
And since I want to pique Gargoyles interest a bit more here is a link to more info on the comic, I might also post reviews as I can find them.
Wednesday, June 14, 2006
One-Track Mind
Okay, so I always feel like I am cheating when I just pop in someone else's blog or comment, and add my own two cents. But, I suppose a blog is a blog.
And this is from the blog of Gilbert Gottfried (you know, the bird from Aladdin, the yelling guy) :
"As I was boarding a bus, the black woman driver said to a woman passenger, “I get all the comics on this bus.” Knowing she was thrilled to see such a famous person, I flashed a smile at her. I figured, what the hell. It takes so little effort to bring a taste of my fame and greatness into this woman’s sad, boring, non-famous existence.
She looked at me stone faced. As I sat down, she got up and started picking up trash on the bus. She started muttering to herself, “They always leave their goddamn news papers and comics.”
I put my head down and stared at my shoes for the rest of the ride like the pathetic schmuck that I am."
And being the schmuck that I am, I assumed the bus driver meant comics. Sometimes you needn't look to far to know where my mind is. I need to start chatting up some bus drivers, sounds like a daily gold mine.
And this is from the blog of Gilbert Gottfried (you know, the bird from Aladdin, the yelling guy) :
"As I was boarding a bus, the black woman driver said to a woman passenger, “I get all the comics on this bus.” Knowing she was thrilled to see such a famous person, I flashed a smile at her. I figured, what the hell. It takes so little effort to bring a taste of my fame and greatness into this woman’s sad, boring, non-famous existence.
She looked at me stone faced. As I sat down, she got up and started picking up trash on the bus. She started muttering to herself, “They always leave their goddamn news papers and comics.”
I put my head down and stared at my shoes for the rest of the ride like the pathetic schmuck that I am."
And being the schmuck that I am, I assumed the bus driver meant comics. Sometimes you needn't look to far to know where my mind is. I need to start chatting up some bus drivers, sounds like a daily gold mine.
Wednesday, June 07, 2006
Me Mutant, You Mutant
So, I recently got this little digest from Marvel. Appropriately titled X-Men Firestar, I got it having once been a pretty big fan. I crack it open, and barely a page in, I see that image. The mark of the mutant. And I am instantly flooded with the deja vu that I have seen this somewhere before.
As a kid, I saw this in some comic, once upon a time. And I can remember... having the mark. Being one of the select few. And for the most part, I god damn loved it. Now, I don't think the mark is actually referenced anymore. But you have to wonder about the genius of it, even now looking at my left hand... the mark is nearly there. Enough for the anxious boy I was to make that leap. So, take a peek, and I hope I can welcome you to the fold, gifted youngster (at heart)!
Tuesday, June 06, 2006
Friday, May 05, 2006
Wednesday, May 03, 2006
FCBD R-E-S-P-E-C-T
Well, I would be pretty upset with myself if I did not discuss Free Comic Book Day (this Saturday) in my blog. This is like the comic fan's Christmas. Now in truth, it should be used to pull new people in, and I hope it does so in that regard. However, altruistic intentions are far from my mind.
I got 19 different comics last year... and I still have every single one. Granted I did show them off to family, but only because some of the comics were gathered up before a family party. Which also looks to be the case again this year.
I figured to kick this off, I would list the comics I really want to be able to get:
Before I forget here is a link to find participating shops near you.
Archie Comics 65th Anniversary Bash
Bongo Comics: Bongo's Free for All 2006 (Publisher of Simpsons Comics)
Image Comics: Future Shock 2006
Marvel Comics: X-Men/Runaways (also other stories incl.)
F&W Publishing: Impact University Vol. 2
Heroic Publishing: Liberty Girl #0
Any of this next group are good for kids!
Top Shelf Productions: Owly: Breakin' the Ice 2006
Renaissance Press: Amelia Rules 2006
Sky-Dog Press: Buzzboy: Sidekicks Rule #1 2006
And in the "Only Strange To Me" category, this week marks the first week I will get comics on a Wednesday since December.
I got 19 different comics last year... and I still have every single one. Granted I did show them off to family, but only because some of the comics were gathered up before a family party. Which also looks to be the case again this year.
I figured to kick this off, I would list the comics I really want to be able to get:
Before I forget here is a link to find participating shops near you.
Archie Comics 65th Anniversary Bash
Bongo Comics: Bongo's Free for All 2006 (Publisher of Simpsons Comics)
Image Comics: Future Shock 2006
Marvel Comics: X-Men/Runaways (also other stories incl.)
F&W Publishing: Impact University Vol. 2
Heroic Publishing: Liberty Girl #0
Any of this next group are good for kids!
Top Shelf Productions: Owly: Breakin' the Ice 2006
Renaissance Press: Amelia Rules 2006
Sky-Dog Press: Buzzboy: Sidekicks Rule #1 2006
And in the "Only Strange To Me" category, this week marks the first week I will get comics on a Wednesday since December.
Monday, May 01, 2006
(Belated) Blog Against Disabilism
EDIT: There was a delay with this thanks to some tech. difficulties. But I still wanted to get this out there.
For so many minorities predjudice exists every day, in ways big and small. I think for most everyone, that is the case. And yet we only step out of the shadows at certain times, for certain reasons. I suppose at least stigmas and stereotypes get challenged. Progress is made in all sorts of ways.
I wasn't sure what I wanted to say today, but I think I have found something that is useful for any sort of challenge. And it is something my mother told me more times than I can count. "Be Your Own Advocate." If something needs changed... let it be known. Maybe we are not all created equally, but I think we can all find equality and happiness.
So, if you are there... wondering when your day, or your month will come... wondering when someone will blog about your personal discrimination? Speak out. People can't be aware of what you don't tell them, and you might regret not doing something.
Here is a link for more about this day, and the people behind it.
For so many minorities predjudice exists every day, in ways big and small. I think for most everyone, that is the case. And yet we only step out of the shadows at certain times, for certain reasons. I suppose at least stigmas and stereotypes get challenged. Progress is made in all sorts of ways.
I wasn't sure what I wanted to say today, but I think I have found something that is useful for any sort of challenge. And it is something my mother told me more times than I can count. "Be Your Own Advocate." If something needs changed... let it be known. Maybe we are not all created equally, but I think we can all find equality and happiness.
So, if you are there... wondering when your day, or your month will come... wondering when someone will blog about your personal discrimination? Speak out. People can't be aware of what you don't tell them, and you might regret not doing something.
Here is a link for more about this day, and the people behind it.