Stranger Things

So, today was pretty eventful as far as my days are concerned. The morning came with me out of bed by 9, a welcome change if there ever was one. And then of course I got on to check e-mail, not many surprises there, but it has to be done. Then it was off to the family reunion, a rocky start I suppose in that Becky was unsure where exactly the park for the festivities was located.

Nevertheless, she made it, and well I didn't see the "family", so we circled two or three times, all the while Matthew was screaming for the park. Just within his little grasp and yet so far away, get used to it son... get used to it. It turns out that another family had taken the reserved area, so after they were moved along, with all the kindness my family manages to muster, we sat down and enjoyed each others company.

Well, it is never exactly like that, I suppose it never will be. I don't reunite well... truth be told I forget alot of people, but this time it mostly family I am closer to, so I was not completely hopeless. There was a conversation with my Grandpa, about our sleep apnea, and the machines involved, and should he go get checked again. His sleep is good, but not as great as it was when he first started. I know the feeling... advised him that when I got rechecked there had been changes. Then we talked about how we both used to fall asleep at the wheel. And the urgency of hourly bathroom breaks at night had been eliminated. And my older brother looked at me. My only pleasant conversation... was about bladder control. I... I feel old.

After that I watched my son, and made note that he needs an uncle to teach him how to walk properly, it is quite dainty right now. He spent more time attached to that swing... definetly a favorite for him. Lots of babies are coming.... lots of babies. Come Christmas I will have some blog stories.

Anyway, all in all, not a bad time was had, and I am glad I did not take a book, like I planned. Matthew was pretty ticked we could not stay, but he is napping now. Becky was a real peach and got me the second SiP book on the way home. So, I expect to have finished that by midweek. I really wanted to remember more than this, I was intent on having all sorts of details from today's event, but alas, I suppose I am not meant for that.

Panel-To-Panel Reviews

House of M #5- Everything really comes together here. The heroes all know their roles, even if the world is different. And both Bendis and the artist picked a great character to convey the crushing brutality of having your life pulled out from under you. It even drives said character to a "out of character" moment, but at that point, anyone would want what he wants. If you are missing this miniseries you are missing the chance to watch something unique unfold. This issue really brings the urgency and danger of everything to the forefront.

Supergirl #0- This issue was a Batman/Superman issue where Supergirl guest stars. It was fun all the same though, as it appears to not have the same muddle that made me drop the title. And it is a great (re)introduction to the character. Right off through Batman and Superman's back and forth narratives, you can see how great she is, and how bad she might one day become. In fact if this issue has anything going wrong for it to me, it is the cover. Something perspectively off-putting about it.

Supergirl #1- I was disappointed at first, thinking that the subplot in #0 would had to have been left behind. It was nice to have a proper telling of Supergirl's origin, or at the very least, what she thinks it is. Right away we are introduced to the JSA, which looked alot like DC's version of The Defenders, this scene was clunky at best because a few members were being called iconic names. Such as, someone who looks nothing like the Flash, being called Flash, same with a Green Lantern resembling character. It is of little importance though, as the team was set up to meet Power Girl, who has an origin and relation to Superman that is very similar to our star's. This led to a very strange meeting/battle. And an unidentified (to me) member of the team concluding that when Supergirl and Powergirl got to close... it put their powers in overdrive. So, after resolution, they meet a few days later, and Power Girl advises Supergirl to keep her distance for the time being. With the issue ending with a heated meeting between Superboy and Supergirl. Wow, even I can't believe I am going to be back next month. It is not as confusing as it sounds, I think.

Ultimates 2 Annual #1- I am sad that this run will be the last time Mark Millar writes the Ultimates for awhile. This issue... was just genius. I don't even particularly like the art. However, Millar pulled it above and beyond, in spite of that. And shows you the most dangerous man in the world. It is kind of like a story I wanted to tell, but he told it so much better. Highly recommended.

Gravity #3- Another strong issue by McKeever and Norton. I really want to see this become an ongoing series. McKeever draws on so many things, cliche battle moments, teen angst, emotions and failure. Norton's subtle yet professional style only enhances the story, nothing is muddled or confusing. And I have to say, the perfect ending. Greg has so much more will power then a fanboy.

New Warriors #3- The team has a flat tire... but the book still cruises along. It is the subtleties in this book that I love. A "Got Villians" bumper sticker on their RV. To the hilarious (yet few) nods to previous series. We get more personal insight into the characters thanks to their TV show pitch being presented by their producer. And Nova gets hauled off for picking up hookers. Don't worry, they call them hookers off panel.

Well, that looks to be it this week, I have not read Marvel Nemesis #4 ... want to find 2 and 3 first. And as far as David Mack's Kabuki: Reflections, it is going to be in tatters. This is a gorgeous... gorgeous... gorgeous book. Built like a trade... looks like a trade... quality like a trade. Priced like a digest. Pick it up, pages and pages of kick ass art. Even some unpublished stuff I think.

KABUKI: REFLECTIONS #5!!!

Finally Friday

And I finally feel rested. Early to bed, and up at 6 am. I went over to my father's for dinner last night, and it might explain why I had what I can only call the shadows of a dream. I woke up thinking my father was dead. And so for roughly a half an hour, I was doing all I could to convince myself this was my imagination.

After all, I just saw him last night, and he looked fine. Wait, isn't that what people on TV always say. I started thinking about all the things I thought he was to me, and what he is and will always be. When I was a kid... I didn't have the trials and tribulations, the only thing that seemed to put a kink in my days of fun, was a father who knew to keep me on my toes. A John Wayne determination would be there to keep me moving forward. It agrivated me to no end, to push me to do more, and be more.... the nerve.

And what he is now, and always was, the most patient and understanding man alive. I have never done more or been more, but I think he is okay with that, as long as I don't forget to try. It was a drastic change. Going from a person I had to love, to a person who will always share my love (even if it was in that John Wayne fashion). Scariest of all, was that we had only gotten to that stage in what felt like such a recent time. And I thought I lost that... thought I lost him.

After I gathered my thoughts, which seemed to go everywhere. I checked the answering machine, hoping that a tell-tale message had not found it's way there. And I went down the hall... sat on the edge of my son's bed... and hugged him tight... kissed his hair. And he frowned. Just as I would have. Then I just whispered my love to him. And he smiled in his sleep.

Thanks for last night, Dad. You make a great steak. I love you.

No Rest for the Wicked

I think I drew the short end of the stick today, or the long end depending on how you look at it. If you were my wife you would, with a great deal of certainty state that because I did not work, and shared the same lack of sleep schedule, I should stay up. I would be inclined to agree, if I felt I could actually do that.

Then if you are my little brother, who stayed up through the night playing video games, again you would state, that my sleep, however miniscule... is far more than he recieved. That one is definetly more of a stretch, as I remember 16, and the independence in one's decisions, dictates the old saying, "No one's fault but your own."

Now if you are my son, who is being watched by me, then you feel you have the short end of the stick. Simply because the only adult who is giving Matthew time... is me. And that is a sad state of affairs indeed. Constantly being shushed so that his, by far, more favorable company can just... lay there. Yes indeed, one might call the Twilight Zone in such a situation.

And me, well I am still dealing with more than a few things... and since I was a kid the best way to sort my problems was to write. It's not working. There is good news... Becky is getting a raise, and she gets an "extra" paycheck tomorrow. And a new manager (which she has been clamoring for) so all appears to be coming together slowly in Karguth County.

At the very least, on paper.

Legal Matters

So, last night marked the return of Boston Legal. A return that I thought.... was new. Now, I know, at my age and with my level of TV exposure. If a show does not specifically state it's newness, it is a rerun. Sometimes I just wish it was the other way around. It wasn't a bad show (partial nudity aside) and it was "new" to me.

My brother is coming over today, so Scrubs will get cracked open, again. And we will all watch and laugh... for hours. Becky might rent some things for this rather impromptu visit. But mostly, there will be much Scrubs watching. Oh, and Becky said she might get comics. Those of you who can actually get comics at a reasonably early time on Wednesday, consider yourselves lucky.

There is a family reunion coming on Sunday, so I plan to have all my grumbles and ughs out later that day. Oh, and my employment advisor reminded me yet again that we have been meeting for a little over a year... and no job. So, nice to know that I am, if not persistent... then predictable.

Kick Me, I am Down

So, I don't know... somebody kicked my Tuesday right out from under me. I don't want to talk about comics today. I don't really want to talk about anything today, but this is my only outlet. Honestly, I thought I was feeling better, but this consuming shadow of thought that in the two hours I have been awake, I may have upset one person, and seriously damaged ties with another. It is vomit-inducing.

I am going on... three and a half hours of sleep. Going to the same links in my favorites list. I don't know why I don't just pull myself away from the computer. In some silly way, I hope that both these people will get on, which for one (whom I can say without any hesitation, I don't know) would be near impossible, and the other ... she does not get on until much later.

Part of me is saying that as far as the second problem is concerned, I am better off. As that friendship was always dangerously unbalanced, and really for the most part non-existant. How can you have a friendship that is based heavily on one syllable conversations. (I would say monosyllabic, but that gets far too much PR) The weird thing is, I screwed up, and I have not even talked to her today!

I did have an interesting time, trying to find that first person, through blogs... nothing harder, let me tell you.

And I came across this line in Shannon's bloggy thingy:

I remember a bit of a conversation from earlier in the dream. Someone asks, [Do you know the relative strength of spider web?] My answer, [It's equivalent to steel cable, isn't it?]

I am not sure if it was a Spider-Man issue that brought that answer to her, but it would have been my reason for saying that. So Shannon, if you are reading that, thanks for giving me a big smile this morning.

Now off to find ways to waste time. :^(

Comics To Come

SUPERGIRL #0 $2.99- This issue is a reprint of a Batman/Superman (Superman/Batman) issue. It was Supergirl's last appearance in that series. I stopped getting S/B awhile back. So this will be new for me. I suppose some others might have reason to gripe.

SUPERGIRL #1 $2.99- This issue is by Jeph Loeb, while I was less then taken by his Batman/Superman book, I was taken with his rendition of Supergirl. As such I have very high hopes for this series. Of all the books this week, my opinion could be drastically changed upon seeing this issue.

GRAVITY #3 (OF 5) $2.99- I know, pretty much since the beginning, I have done nothing but rave about this book. Devoting blogs to it even. I think it is because it has so many of the aspects that I loved about Spider-Man. The Marvel Universe flies around our young and naive hero (from Wisconsin), and it would be safe to say, that both the hero and the readers are in for a wild ride. If you want something both fresh and nostalgic, unique and old school, go ask your comic guy to grab back issues and then bring yourself up to date. It's only five issues.

HOUSE OF M #5 (OF 8) $2.99- One of the best things about this "event" is that it flies by, every two weeks a new issue. And despite what some will say, this is 98% self-contained, if you are wondering about the FF or Spidey, pick up their tie-ins. Otherwise just assume they are going out of their minds too. This is by far the easiest event I have had the pleasure of partaking in.

KABUKI REFLECTIONS BOOK #5 $5.99- Does anyone know what this is? No... Anyone? Oh, well I can tell you, it is a must have. A constant negative that I hear made against David Mack is, "Oh, I love the art, but it takes an hour to read a story." Well, now you can just focus on the art, on the craft, on the pure magic this man brings to his work. If you haven't read Mack... this is the one book to seek out and buy. Trust me, others will either follow or they won't, but you won't walk away disappointed.

MARVEL NEMESIS IMPERFECTS #4 (OF 6) $2.99- I am getting this again (I stopped after issue one) for the Daredevil appearance. I am a completist, and it is easier to get the issues now then scramble for them later. "But Justin," you say, "it is a video game tie-in, and thus out of continuity. You don't have to get it." And you would be right, but I gave up on being logical with myself a long time ago.

NEW WARRIORS #3 (OF 6) $2.99- While not as polished as Gravity, this is a very fun and funny book. A group of heroes travel around the midwest solving the problems that plague you and I, all while the cameras are rolling. I read in an early review that this is the best Skottie Young's (artist) work has ever been. I can't wait to see what kooky adventure comes with the middle of this mini.

ULTIMATES ANNUAL #1 (MR) $3.99- Yeah, the annuals are back. And this would be the only one for the Ultimate universe that I am getting. I am really beginning to hate paying an extra dollar for a cardstock cover. Let's hope this annual packs bang for the buck. Wait, every issue of Ultimates is cardstock cover, maybe I am paying for extra pages!! Nah...

STAN LEE COMIC BOOK GREATS VOL 1 MADMEN OF COMICS DVD PI- I have no idea what this is about, but guaranteed if I can find it to rent (or... buy) then a review on this blog will follow, I love comic-related films, but most of all I love those with passion and historical reference.

THUNDERCATS SEASON 1 VOL 1 DVD SET- Ok, the really sad admission. I know nostalgia has colored my perception of this show. I also know that the fact that I named my first grade reading group, "The Thundercats", only affirms my delusion. But I will also try to rent (*sigh* or buy) this. Okay, I know, it mostly sucked, but that tomato toss was uncalled for.

There you go another week of expectations ... scribbled all over the web. Check back Thursday to see me curse at the reality that I purchase alot of crap.

A Place to Hang Your Horns

So, being the comic guy that I am, I thought I might steer you to a new place to discuss my favorite character, Daredevil. Sometimes being in this hobby can bring feelings of isolation. And even in other places one can find discussion, but true respect and shared interest? That is an aspect that can be rather fleeting.

Fans Without Fear is a unique and quickly growing fan site. Unique in that both fans new and old seem eager to learn from each other. Add to that, so many other topics are brought to light. From the now cancelled drama Blind Justice, to the rarely seen and often-wished forgotten, Trial of the Incredible Hulk.

As Comics moderator of this site, I would like to extend a formal invitation. Anything is up for discussion, as long as it is civil then no topic is turned away. So really, comics fans, stop by and let your feet up for awhile, and relax with some fellow fans.

Chasing Inspiration

So, today, for the whole day, I have been having fleeting ideas. I would start a poem in my head, which would turn to a song. And then, without much time passing that would vanish. A story idea ending with much the same result. I am crossing my fingers that with Sunday comes just a little time for reflection. I feel creatively cut off at the knees.

Oh well, writing will never be quite like it was when I had loads of teen angst.

Panel-To-Panel Reviews

JUSTICE #1 (OF 12) $2.99- This was a baffling first issue. A wordy representation of the end of the DC Universe. Strategic explosions all over the world. And the heroes are truly more human than I have seen in the DC Universe, since Identity Crisis. Oh, except for one thing, it's all a dream, well a dream shared by several people. And those people, are quite a few (if not all of the villians) of the DCU. So, while the beginning is confusing with commentary seeming to come from Superman (seemingly the last survivor of Earth also) but after the dream is revealed, we are taken through to one villian imparticular. Lex Luthor. And he's got a plan, to save the world... from the heroes. Add that cool twist with the Alex Ross art, and you got a book that is hard not to like, at least a bit.

ARANA HEART OF THE SPIDER #6 $2.99- Well, I have to say, though, I haven't finished this book, I can finally say something has me interested. A young girl (our hero) stops a shooting and saves her enemy. It doesn't surprise me, and it really should not surprise me that this makes a chink in the villian's armor, but it did. I will really wish I had more to hold with this title, but this is the last issue.

DAREDEVIL FATHER DIRECTORS CUT #1 $2.99- Wow, this... this ticked me off as much as I thought. Yeah, it was a dollar less than originally, with a half sketch cover, and 4 or 5 extra sketch pages. But see, I was stupid enough to pay $1 more for it the first time... a long time ago! I mean I just supported an issue that I was completely against. I feel... so dirty.

DAREDEVIL REDEMPTION #6 (OF 6) (MR) $2.99- Alright, this was the best of the week. David Hines just earned that spot for best mini-series in the last year. And the Gaydos art evoked all the emotion. It took twists the whole series I never saw coming, this finale was no exception. This is a must read, again and again.

MARVEL ADVENTURES SPIDER-MAN #6 $2.50- I love when a comic takes a different route than the classic hero/ villian clash. Sean McKeever pulls no punches here. The hero goes in over his head, and the audience knows it... as his butt is quickly handed to him. We see a sad side of Sandman. And while the hero and villian won't be going out for coffee. I think this comic teaches more than a few important lessons. Money can't buy happiness. Life is valued above all else. And Aunt May is pretty smart. Bring us the rest of the supporting cast McKeever. I am ready to see your Mary Jane again.

MARVEL TEAM-UP #11 $2.99- This was my runner-up for best of the week. Kirkman pops me hard on the funny bone. So, I won't hold it against him that he took inspiration from my fan fic. Seriously, this series just came so close. It was just so great. If you like funny, and you like someone knowing your favorite characters... or introducing you to a few more. Take a ride on Team-Up.

NEW AVENGERS #8 $2.50- Tainted by Jenkins. Yet, I really liked this issue, Spider-Woman totally rocked the casba. She's a bad mamma-jamma. Woah, flashback to bad slang. Oh and the last splash page is worth the visit alone. Oh, and can anyone tell me what Wolverine has stuck to his head when he lands?

All in all, it was not a bad week. In fact, the only bad part being I had to deal with my family staring at me while I chuckled at Team-Up. Oh, also, has anyone read the 1602: The New World is worth $3.50?

Follow the Creator

Dan Slott mentioned in his radio interview(now archived) that he was an avid follower of John Byrne. And one can see alot of that in the syle of a few of his books, I think that the sort of bond that occurs is a rare one indeed. The true test for me, is would I follow so and so, to another company. Some folks make it easy, like Peter David. And others you are a bit surprised to tell yourself that you might not, like Bendis! (I hate indulging that). And still others have such an effect on you, that you keep wishing there was more to get.

Karl Kesel is in that third category, he properly snagged me as my first continous writer. Before that I would get any Spider-Man and not notice the writer credits. I noticed Karl Kesel, noticed him enough to be able to monologue his thought boxes (the thought balloons were well into being on the way out). I was stealing his one-liners, I might even tweak a compelling bit in my speech class. It is not hard to see the profound effect he has on my writing, or my silliness in general.

Which makes it hard, since the initial DD run I have maybe a handful of Kesel books, a few of them he had written. Alot of that, I suppose, could be attributed to the fact, that I just didn't have the knowledge of product that I do now. Even still, the man is just not out there enough. Well, I am hoping that an upcoming two-parter will flesh out into either a series, or at the very least, a shot at another book entirely.

The two-parter is called Vegas, and it will soon be found in a series called Amazing Fantasy. Vegas is an ambitious project. It is a western, which might push away those of us addicted to capes and tights. It is a modern western, which will push away western fans. I sometimes wonder if it knows what it wants to be, but Kesel seems to have a strong focus for his goal plot-wise. And the art looks gorgeous.

Here is an interview Newsarama posted this morning with Karl Kesel. The preview art alone is worth a look. It is just such a shame, that I can watch a recent favorite like Dan Slott, exceed everyone's expectations, and Kesel remains a huge talent with the words: Marvel should give him more work... doomed to follow him.

Comics To Come

Shipping This Week: August 3, 2005 (This might just be introduction enough LOL)

JUSTICE #1 (OF 12) $2.99- I was surprised to add this title this week, I did not see it when I looked last week. It is Alex Ross, and quite honestly, I will read anything that man is involved in. So even though, this is DC... alot of DC. I think it will be one that I am talking about for awhile. On another note, did anyone read Earth X or Paradise X, I never got to those, pricing was rather high if I recall. Anyway, any info would be appreciated.

ARANA HEART OF THE SPIDER #6 $2.99- Ok, no hate mail, but my minority comics, seem to be hanging on only because there minority comics. You got a Latin-American Spider-Girl, I can totally support that. If you write so I just don't care, then really I am cheating myself. I mean yeah, Gravity may be just another white blonde haired, blue-eyed hero, but damn it if it is not a great series.

DAREDEVIL FATHER DIRECTORS CUT #1 $2.99- Bwahaha... if I ever support this sorry excuse to line Quesada's pockets with dollar bills, it will not be for Quesada, but for my LCS who seems to look out for my DD craze. I bought this so long ago... that you may as well be selling sulfer. The lack of follow-up product left a very bitter taste.

DAREDEVIL REDEMPTION #6 (OF 6) (MR) $2.99- Now this is a DD mini. I mean, write it down, because it is the absolute way to go. First, you got... on time. Then you got... a compelling story that hasn't had time for me to go back and tear it down. And the kicker... and this is is important. Gaydos draws Daredevil (I will say it slowly so if Quesada is reading he knows I am serious) like ... ... ... D-a-r-e-d-e-v-i-l. Pick this up, and then pick up more for your friends

MARVEL ADVENTURES SPIDER-MAN #6 $2.50- McKeever is on a roll, I am so glad they got someone of his caliber to handle this book. I can finally hand these off to Matthew in a few years (ha) and he might not roll his eyes too much. If you got the kiddos... and you want to sedate them until Spidey 3 I cannot recommend this enough.

MARVEL TEAM-UP #11 $2.99- Oh yay! MTU... which thank got they changed the logo. I am going to get giddy. I thought next week was my giddy comic week. But I mean Dan Slott... and MTU and DD:Redemption.... I got to give some love to this week. Anyway, for whatever reason I don't remember quite what happened... it was fun. DD, Moon Knight, and being shot from cannons. Oh that's right... Cap amd Wolvie... and that finger. So, Punisher too. I am having flashes of Decalogue... because like Dec. this has had some pretty good stand alone arcs... a snore here and there, but all in all satisfactory, but this back story has built up so long, it can't possibly compare. Prove me wrong, Kirkman. You still owe my ass for recomending DD 2099.

NEW AVENGERS #8 $2.50- The last of the bunch. Probably the most disappointing thing for me, is that the appearance of Paul Jenkins, was not a hologram. But really him... so now, you know... I have to hear him and see him. And to be quite honest, I did not want to do either. And this really shoots my hopes of him going exclusive to DC. There's your chink in the armor, Bendis...

If you can't tell, I am in very good spirits. Comics are back to the forefront, as well they should be. And I just want to send a thank you out, to friends, they make you realize that sometimes an extra dimension to the day to day, might just be all you need.

Talking Marvel's Top Slott

Dan Slott get's interviewed on the World Talk Radio, one of my favorite Marvel writers, Dan Slott, gets to discuss projects of the past, and those upcoming. While most likely categorized as a light-hearted and funny storyteller. I find him to be a versatile writer, and his work resonates with me, on several levels.

Dan Slott got his start working with Fabian Nicienza at Marvel Comics. From there, the scribe landed gigs on Ren and Stimpy and a few other projects. He was previously one of the writers on the animated Batman comic series, Batman Adventures. Slott has also worked on a limited series with Ryan Sook featuring the criminally insane element of Gotham City in Arkham Asylum Living Hell. Besides working in the Bat Universe, Slott's had his share of other cartoon characters with gigs on Powerpuff Girls, Scooby Doo, Looney Tunes, and Ren and Stimpy. The jump to Marvel would come only a little while later when he came to tackle Marvel Comics' Gamma girl, She-Hulk. It was quite obvious to those reading that Slott could handle the Marvel Universe with a humble mastery. Since then he has tackled the titans of team-up, the powerhouses of pranks and puns, Spider-Man and the Human Torch. Now hot on Slott's heels are his upcoming return to She-Hulk, an ongoing Thing series. And a number of other projects no doubt.

The show should begin somewhere close to 4 o'clock (CST). In honor of this show, I have compiled a list of internet interviews that have been conducted.

SBC Interview

CBR Interview

Pulse Interview

Another SBC Interview

Short One with Ugo

ComixFan Interview

411 Interview

Newsarama

Thought Balloons Q&A

My only regret (you are still here right?). Is that I will not be able to call during the show, not that I know quite what I would say or ask. But I have found a site with his e-mail, so I might e-mail him after just to say what a great job he did. There might be a follow up to this later.

Hero Worship?

Great, just what I needed, another reason to regret leaving Wichita. This is a fascinating, and actually rather surprising article on the religious themes that can be found through out comic book culture. Scroll a bit father down DD Fans, you just might smile at who makes a special guest appearance.

I have to admit that Wichita really was a place that I kind of set the bar for now. A great comic shop. A rather nice microism of the world. I was alone but not stranded. Great restaurants and entertainment. Nice community. I suppose I had quite a few opportunities to settle in, and in the end, I never did.

Now, that I know they had a church this cool, well, I might have found just the inspiration I needed. Not really, but it sounded good.

Weekend Woes

If you don't know... I don't like company. I don't like visiting people. It's just like I am preparing myself to be torn down (either way). I had the start to a hell of a weekend. It was hustle and bustle to clean. And anyone who knows me, knows that I don't clean very quickly, and I certainly do not do it well. And I had indulged my internet chat time a bit too much, anyway.

There was a point, when I started that I thought I would only get the kitchen sorted. Because my son was in the living room, making a fast mess. On top of an already existing mess actually. So after tackling the kitchen (with a lazy but silly audience). I crossed that border from tile to carpet. And surprisingly was able to get quite alot done with the added distraction that my son could leave balls around to play with. And what a thankful distraction The Incredibles was. I am not sure what made me happier... that it was a distraction. Or that it is finally a movie we can watch together and enjoy.

I am hoping my Sunday is a lull in the monsoon of visiting relatives. Because at this point of being knackered and tired (it is alot). I just want to sit down with my copy of CBG, Promethea, and maybe a couple of my Gary Paulsen books (a favorite author since my preteen years).

At the very least (so far) no one has torn my cleaning job down... and that is a very good thing. Of course then again, they probably think Becky did it. *sigh*

A Friend Indeed

I used to be a pretty popular guy, not like your jocks or anything. Just in that with the crutches or the wheelchair, I was hard to miss. Now, I am not saying that everyone liked me, try as I might to want that. And I am not saying some didn't avoid me. Something in the fact that going to school, having such a social routine, it forces even the most shelled individuals to put themselves out there.

And now, I don't have that. I mean living in my hometown, I see old friends, but I kind of hide myself. I certainly don't stay for conversation. Even if they seem happy to see me, in the back of my mind, I am judging myself harshly enough for them. I just can't invest like that, I even feel distanced from my best friend growing up. I have not said a word to him in months, and I have not seen him, since my wedding.

And really, I have always felt it was a void I could not fill, the friendship void. How can you be friends (even again) if you don't stay around for that first impression? And then you spend so much time... building yourself up... constructing a fortress. That when push comes to shove. Someone has to be really stubborn to try and set foot in that friend zone.

And I guess on day's like today, when I woke up so ill, that my body hurt. It was good to have a friend, even at 4 am. So, I think that void has been filled, it is a pretty good day when I can talk comics, and talk about all the stuff that I feel, and go away a better person. Even if only for a little while.

Keep your friends close...

Comics to Come

MARVEL PREVIEWS #24 AUGUST 2005- I am looking forward to this issue. As alot of great product is coming out in October. And I like the elaboration that this gives, it has a much better feel then scrolling down a webpage (even if I can find the information elswhere). And it is only 99 cents.

ASTRO CITY THE DARK AGE #2 (OF 16) $2.99- I was anticipating this series for quite sometime. The thing about Astro City, is that it takes such a pleasant and human view. That is not to say it does not pass out punches with the best of them. But this is kind of what it would be like if you had to be human in a world of capes and cowls. And at the heart of it all, the lives of two very different brothers, who are alot more alike then they think.

AMAZING SPIDER-MAN #522 $2.50- Ok, we are still in "Hail Hydra" "Avengers Assemble" mode, and I have to say I quite like it. Whether it was intentional Amazing has pulled away from the Gwen Stacy/ Norman Osborn catastrophe. I knew after it happened that I would not drop this title, first off because it does not bother. That doesn't mean it makes sense, or that it was not the dumbest thing I have ever read. But I knew if it did not bother me, there would be other stories to enjoy.

BLACK PANTHER #6 $2.99- Ok, this is the deciding issue for me. I think this is the end of the arc, I guess if I liked the series I would know. Although having said that Hudlin pulled me back into Marvel Knights Spider-Man. So maybe he can surprise me here as well.

DAREDEVIL VS PUNISHER #2 (OF 6) $2.99- Hopefully, Daredevil plays a bigger part throughout the series. I know he doesn't, I read an interview that very clearly stated otherwise. But I still hope.

PULSE #10 $2.99- This is the HoM crossover issue. I don't think Gaydos is back yet, but when he is... oh it will be good times. I think Pulse might even be pulled out of it's crossover stories, and making it's own big event, as Jessica pops a babe out of that belly.

PULSE HOUSE OF M SPECIAL ED #1 PI- This should be a great addition to all the HoM stuff. I have loved everything I am getting. HoM is good, and from what I hear getting better. The Secrets of HoM book has been an excellent reference. And I am really excited about the newspaper format.

RUNAWAYS #6 $2.99- Here it is folk's. The captured enemy/ally has found his real daddy. And also that he isn't even really human. And Will Smith though he had it bad. *note I would have used a Short Circuit reference, but I think even the I, Robot one was a bit much.

I might do a follow up to this blog about my "wish list", which is stuff that caught my eye on the shipping list, that I did not know about, and so probably won't be able to get.

Oh, Grow Up

So, I was sitting here at four in the morning... and I was pretty much wide awake. Being woken up will do that to me, I like to think it won't, and about half the time, I can get back to sleep, not lately. Nature called... and my stomach was bothering me anyway (but that is what I get for having Taco Bell after 7 pm. And I knew I couldn't ignore that... and I knew I could not go back to sleep.

And it has been like that, give or take, since Beck started her new job. On a good day, my son does not also get up. I have always had this... paranoia. Since I was a little kid. I don't think I could live in a house alone, I mean not for a long time. I would just be a frazzled mess. When I was a kid, going through our dark house at night and coming back from the bathroom or the kitchen after a drink of water. I was like lightning. Sometimes it was a noise, one of those bumps or thumps. More often then not, it was the wicked witch ... or Teen Wolf (my brother still gets a chuckle out of that)... or that episode of Unsolved Mysteries where they never found the serial killer... which was every episode. And I can remember... I always say it was Unsolved Mysteries but now that I think about it... it was so cornball it might have been Ripley's. Anyway, there was this episode... where they had this "real" werewolf... and they said he was crossing the Atlantic... coming to America. (I am sure they added something about coming for little boys... just for effect *a role now filled by Michael Jackson).

Anyway, I still have that kind of anxiety today. Which, kind of makes me feel like I am ten years old. This time it is mice or something silly like that. The bumps and thumps, I think sometimes I scare myself. I have moved beyond Teen Wolf - What? I have... Alright, the transformation in the bathroom is still a bit scary, but I am gold through the rest of it. I just, I have always admired my father, he was never scared of anything. And it just sits in my mind... ever prevalent from repeated early mornings. I at least want to be brave to my son.

Of course, it would not make me grown up... I mean there are still the comics... and toys... and all that, but I want to keep all that. It was also cool when I found out my dad read Archie... I mean, yeah it was Archie, but at least it was something that didn't involve the wilderness or John Wayne. It was three times as cool knowing my Grandma used to read all the Marvels when her and my grandfather were first married. Of course she lost most of that the minute she explained that right after reading... she threw them away.

Grown ups, honestly, wierd.

Eisners, Surprises, and Crossovers... Oh My

Ok, so I have decided to kind of jumble all my blog stuff together. And there is alot to talk about so bear with me. First off, I am pretty sure that I have not been doing any follow-ups to my Comics To Come. Which is fine I guess. But really, I should at least touch base if something caught my eye. Makes it better for when I want to complain again.

So, I just want to go on record as saying this was a really good week. Now, I will be the first to tell you, I love Kesel, I love Slott... I like some silly in my supers. I always figure I don't prefer the grim and gritty. But then, I have to factor in my favorites this week. I thought Ultimates was more blood then I was used to. But it was all good. I mean pulls at the primal instinct, I may not like grim and gritty, but I love the anti-hero. And I think it has the line where I find I don't like it, is drawn in one simply factor. I have to care. If a hero kills somebody, I have to care, I have to think that in similar circumstances.... given similar abilities. I would have handed my vengeance out too.

See, I don't like the Punisher. It is all excess to me. I know he got his families killers a loong time ago. And even if he hadn't... there is no chance of finding them now. I just don't care. He secludes himself, he is absorbed in the mission. I mean really to me, reading it is as boring as watching an account crack numbers all day. I get why he feels he has to do it, but I don't necessarily want to follow him to work.

But in Ultimates, I was there with Hawkeye. I watched his son die... and I wanted a reaction. Was it graphic ... yes. Was it brutal... yes. But I couldn't help but feel it was justified. I couldn't do it. But I would want to.

And Wolverine. He is up there with the Punisher at times, I like him, but I never thought I would be following his solo title. And he is bad-ass. But again it was personal... to an insane degree, but all the same... I may not want all the carnage I see. I have a feeling, that regardless of being brain-washed, if I hurt my friends... it wouldn't end in revenge. It would be a battle with myself.

Marvel Knights Spider-Man also redeemed it's mediocre standings with me. It is amazing how one issue ... nay one panel can change your perception. And sadly, I left HoM #4 ... at the shop. Forgotten. I am crossing my fingers it is there whenever I make it back. (This is my crossovers part of the title, by the way)


Eisner Award winners 2005 (Instead of taking up more space, I decided to make comments red)

The awards were made over the weekend at the Comic-Con International in San Diego:

Best Limited Series: DC: The New Frontier, by Darwyn Cooke (DC)- Watch out for this guy. Great stuff. I plan on becoming a serious fan when he writes the new Spirit series for DC.
Best Anthology: Michael Chabon Presents The Amazing Adventures of the Escapist- This is a pretty good grouping of talent, in fact my only gripe is in pricing. Oh, read Kavelier and Clay
Best Graphic Album—Reprint: Bone One Volume Edition, by Jeff Smith - This is a great book. An indy pushing it's way into schools. Great art, great writing, great price.
Best Writer: Brian K. Vaughan, Runaways (Marvel)- If you aren't reading Runaways, well you probably won't strart because of what I say, however, if he writes something you are remotely interested in, then get it. You will not be disappointed.
Best Lettering: Todd Klein, Promethea- I now have the first trade. And even in what little I have read of it. I will bet it is safe to say that Todd is very deserving of this award.
Talent Deserving of Wider Recognition: Sean McKeever (Gravity, Gravity, Gravity!(this was not listed ;))- This is the one win that I most agree with. Sean McKeever writes like I would hope to write. He is a little funny, he knows his history without the reader needing to swim in it. I really wish him all the best.
Best Comics-Related Book: Men of Tomorrow: Geeks, Gangsters, and the Birth of the Comic Book, by Gerard Jones- A friend of mine has this book, so it would have likely gone under my radar, so when her glowing recommendation is provided. I will purchase this... and my hands can stop twitching.
(Basic Books)Hall of Fame: Voters’ choices: Gene Colan- Nice to see Colan get recognition... for whatever the hell this is.
Promising Newcomer Award: Chris Bailey (Major Damage)- Ok, I strongly agree with this one too. I instantly fell in love with Major Damage, since my taste at Free Comic Book Day. Sadly his title is sitting on my "need to pick up" list.

Comics To Come

CONAN #18 (MR) $2.99- I wish I could tell you what is going on in this title, but to be quite honest, Conan has hardly ever held my interest. Kurt Busiek (writer) is accomplished, a favorite of mine for quite some time, and Cary Nord (co-artist) is one of my absolute hands down favorite artist. With Dave Stewart adding his usual spectacular colors, this comic has everything to offer, but very little of it appeals to me.

GROUNDED #1 (OF 6) $2.95- If I can find this I think it will be an excellent addition. It takes super-hero into the realm of child fantasy. And what one child does when he is confined to his room... grounded. The cover was enough to grab me, the premise was enough to keep me.

DAREDEVIL #75 $3.99- Double-sized finale, saliva-dripping, finger-twitching finale. Daredevil had a hell of year. Come to think of it, since the start of Volume 2 it has been a hell of alot of hell. This story-arc has the powerful build that it's classic title eludes to... and even if the pay-off dulls, this has been well worth it to me.

DEFENDERS #1 (OF 5) $2.99- Funny finds it's way to Marvel. And lately Marvel humor has just had me smiling from ear to ear. I hope this is in the same field as She-Hulk, Gravity, and New Warriors. This may be the escape needed that I spoke about earlier. Then again, it might not.

GLA #4 (OF 4) $2.99- Sadly the conclusion of this is going to have to wait. My comic shop missed out on issue 3. This is the team that time wants to forget... but the heart of the series is in the characters. Quirky and well meaning, mixed with the dark and gritty world that comics have been in.

HOUSE OF M #4 (OF 8) $2.99- Don't look now, but it's back. And the mystery of M continues in full force. Time to play name that cameo. We are halfway through, and I am still tingly thinking of the possibilities of what's to come. Oh that's right, issue 5 is only have to wait two weeks... this has to be my favorite event ever.

MARVEL KNIGHTS SPIDER-MAN #16 $2.99- I want to like this series. I want to like what Hudlin(writer) is building here. But this just doesn't have the pull that Millar's preceding run had before. I feel like I want the big twist as much as Hudlin wants to give it. There is something big here because if not... the upcoming Spidey crossover will be a cautious endeavor for me.

SECRETS OF THE HOUSE OF M #1 $3.99- They snagged me, not only do I want this, but I think I might need it. Just to pull together pieces of this miniseries that I have not figured out, but maybe should have. I hope Marvel has enough sense not to give too much away, a silly worry, but they have done it before.

SPIDER-MAN HOUSE OF M #2 (OF 5) $2.99- I like what the first issue had to offer. Peter Parker has everything he ever wanted. He has Gwen Stacy... he has Uncle Ben... fame and fortune. He just has to hide the fact that he is not a mutant. Because if anyone finds out... everything he holds so close... will be ripped apart. I would not mind having a front seat to the unraveling.

ULTIMATES 2 #7 $2.99- I have to have a Mark Millar story every month. And Ultimates is it. Every month it feels like the Ultimates world is your own. You realize that each of it's flawed heroes has come through so much. And it is nice to see it in such crisp clear vision. If Millar left this series, I have to think that I would to.

WOLVERINE #30 $2.50- Okay, so this is yet another Millar title, but it is also almost the end of his run. And with him leaves artist John Romita Jr., but unlike Ultimates, I will give this title the benefit of seeing what the next writer is going to do. It is a riveting story, of how one man can have his life torn apart, and the only tools he has to fix it, will help to kill everyone responsible.

So there, as I predicted Marvel piled it on this week. Which pretty much guarantees I will follow up on some of these titles after reading.