Support Independent Comics!
Independent comics (and manga) being released tomorrow, 7/27/05, courtesy of ComicList. Not all of these titles will actually arrive in all stores. If your LCBS offers a pre-ordering service, be sure to take advantage of it.
Recommendations, sometimes blind, in BOLD. Which ones are YOU reading?
AC COMICS
Men Of Mystery #54, $6.95
ACTOR
Actor DFE Hunter Killer Alt Cvr #1, $6.99
Actor New Avengers #2 Miki Sgn, $19.99
Actor X-Men Forever #1 Alt Cover, $10.00
A. D. VISION
Full Metal Panic Manga Vol 8 TPB, $9.99
Notenki Memoirs SC, $9.99
ALIAS ENTERPRISES LLC
Dreamland Chronicles #2 (Of 24), $4.50
Gimoles #1 (Of 4), $0.75
Imperial Dragons #1 (Of 6), $0.75
Lions Tigers & Bears TPB, $9.99
Psi Kix Vol 1 GN, $9.99
Ted Noodleman Bicycle Delivery Boy TPB, $9.99
ALTERNATIVE COMICS
Cute Manifesto TPB, $19.95
AMAZE INK (SLAVE LABOR GRAPHICS)
Bill & Teds Most Excellent Adventures Vol 2 TPB, $13.95
Ghouly Boys Fat Bat Plush Doll, AR
ANTARCTIC PRESS
Fist Full Of Dollars Ninja High School #130, AR
NHS Pkt Manga Five Pack Special, AR
ANTIMATTER/HOFFMAN INTERNATIONAL
Mike Hoffmans Mythos Magazine #1, $9.95
ARCANA STUDIO
El Arsenal #1 (Of 3), $2.95
ARCHIE COMIC PUBLICATIONS
Jughead #167, $2.25
Tales From Riverdale Digest #4, $2.39
ASPEN MLT INC
Fathom Signed Ed #1, $29.99
ASYLUM PRESS
Satans 3 Ring Circus Of H$$$ TPB, $19.95
AVATAR PRESS
Alan Moores Hypothetical Lizard #3 (Of 4), $3.50
Alan Moores Hypothetical Lizard Foil Incentive #3 (Of 4), $3.75
Alan Moores Hypothetical Lizard Wraparound Cvr #3 (Of 4), $3.50
Brian Pulidos Lady Death Dead Rising Martin Sketch Ed, $34.90
Brian Pulidos Lady Death Swimsuit 2005 Killing Blow Ed, $5.99
Brian Pulidos Unholy Nature Calls Cvr #2, $5.99
Gypsy #1, $3.50
Gypsy Adrian Cvr #1, $3.50
Gypsy Nouveau Cvr #1, $3.50
Gypsy Platinum Foil Incentive Cvr #1, AR
Gypsy Premium Cvr #1, $9.99
Gypsy Rearte Cvr #1, $3.50
Lady Death Abandon All Hope #1 (Of 4), $3.99
Lady Death Abandon All Hope Foil Incentive #1 (Of 4), AR
Lady Death Abandon All Hope Glow Cvr #1 (Of 4), $19.99
Lady Death Abandon All Hope Premium Cvr #1 (Of 4), $9.99
Lady Death Abandon All Hope Ryp Cvr #1 (Of 4), $3.99
Lady Death Abandon All Hope Wraparound Cvr #1 (Of 4), $3.99
Lady Death Leather & Lace 2005 Hot As H$$$ Ed, $5.99
Shi Poisoned Paradise #1/2 Royal Blue Foil Ed, $75.00
Stargate SG1 Daniels Song Dallas Con Gold Ed #1, $4.99
Stargate SG1 Fall Of Rome Judge Sgn #3 (Of 3), $39.99
Threshold Lookers Nude Cvr #53, $6.00
Threshold Lookers Wraparound Cvr #53, $4.99
Threshold Pandora Cvr #53, $4.99
Threshold Pandora Demon Nude Cvr #53, $6.00
Threshold Pandora Nude Cvr #53, $6.00
BOOM STUDIOS
Hero Squared #1 (Of 3), $3.99
Hero Squared Pull My Finger Cvr #1 Of(3), $3.99
BROADSWORD COMICS
Tarot Witch Of The Black Rose #33, $2.95
BUYMETOYS.COM
Oz Wonderland Chronicles Preview, $2.99
COMIC CAVALCADE
Lady Death Abandon All Hope Comm Cvr #1 (Of 4), $5.99
Lady Death Abandon All Hope Gold Foil #1 (Of 4), $5.99
DARK HORSE COMICS
Dungeon Siege Battle For Aranna GN, $6.95
Hellboy The Island #2 (Of 2), $2.99
Oh My Goddess Vol 21 TPB, $10.95
Star Wars Republic #77, $2.99
Usagi Yojimbo Vol 19 Fathers And Sons TPB, $15.95
DEL REY
Edgar Allan Poe Fall O/T House Of Usher & Other Tales TPB, $12.95
Genshiken Vol 2 GN, $10.95
Guru Guru Pon Chan Vol 1 GN, $10.95
Nodame Cantiabile Vol 2 GN, $10.95
Tsubasa Vol 6 GN, $10.95
DESTINATION ENTERTAINMENT LLC
Transformers Universe #1 Red Foil Con Ed, $12.99
DIGITAL MANGA DISTRIBUTION
Yellow Vol 1 GN, $12.95
DISNEY PRESS
Tim Burtons Nightmare Before Christmas Manga GN, $8.99
DORK STORM PRESS
Dr Blink Superhero Shrink #1 (AA), $2.99
DR MASTERS PRODUCTIONS INC
Category Freaks Vol 1 TPB, $9.95
FANFARE / PONENT MON
Times Of Botchan Vol 1 GN (Of 10), $19.99
GEMSTONE PUBLISHING
EC Aces High Annual #1 (AA), $13.50
EC Frontline Combat Annual Set (AA), $37.40
Uncle Scrooge #344, $6.95
Walt Disneys Comics & Stories #659, $6.95
GIGANTIC GRAPHIC NOVELS
Dead West Vol 1 GN, $14.95
HEROIC PUBLISHING INC
Flare #26, $2.99
HOARSE AND BUGGY PRODUCTIONS
Western Tales Of Terror #5, $3.50
IDW PUBLISHING
CSI New York Bloody Murder #1 (Of 5), $3.99
CVO Covert Vampiric Operations Rogue State TPB, $19.99
Grimjack Killer Instinct #6 (Of 6), $3.99
Metal Gear Solid #11, $3.99
IMAGE COMICS
Alien Vs Predator Hybrid Bx Set AF, AR
Alien Vs Predator Ser 2 AF Asst, AR
Casefiles Sam & Twitch #18, $2.50
Godland #1, $2.99
McFarlanes Sports MLB 3-In Singles Ser 1 AF Asst, AR
Tomb Raider Witchblade Magdalena Vampirella One Shot, $2.99
MAHRWOOD PRESS
Nagdila Vol 1 Tale Of The Golden Age GN, $19.95
MOONSTONE
Belle Starr Queen Of Bandits #1, $2.95
NBM
Attitude Featuring Neal Swaab Rehabilitating Mr Wiggles TPB, $10.95
Cryptozoo Crew Vol 1 TPB, $9.95
NEW ENGLAND COMICS
Tick Days Of Drama #1, $4.95
Tick Days Of Drama Ltd Variant Cvr #1, AR
ONI PRESS INC.
Capote In Kansas GN, $11.95
Courtney Crumrin Tales #1, $5.95
Queen & Country Declassified Vol 3 #2 (Of 3), $2.99
REBELLION
2000 AD #1445, $4.10
2000 AD #1446, $4.10
SEVEN SEAS ENTERTAINMENT LLC
Amazing Agent Luna Vol 2 GN, $10.99
SIRIUS ENTERTAINMENT
Poison Elves Ventures #2 Lynn #2, $3.50
SPEAKEASY COMICS
Beowulf #3, $2.99
SSSCOMICS.COM
Eclipse And Vega The Beds We Make #3 (Of 3), $2.95
TOKYOPOP
All Grown Up Cinemanga Vol 2 GN (Of 2), $7.99
Blame Vol 1 GN (Of 10), $9.99
Cross Vol 4 GN (Of 5), $9.99
Dot Hack Sign Ai Buster Novel, $7.99
Dragon Knights Vol 20 GN (Of 22), $9.99
Dream Saga Vol 5 GN (Of 5), $9.99
Duel Masters Cinemanga Vol 5 GN (Of 7), $7.99
Escaflowne Vol 1-4 GN Set, $19.99
Fruits Basket Vol 11 GN (Of 14), $9.99
Girl Got Game Vol 10 GN (Of 10), $9.99
Gto Vol 1 GN (AA), $9.99
Gto Vol 25 GN (Of 25), $9.99
Heaven Above Heaven Vol 2 GN (Of 6), $9.99
Initial D Vol 19 GN (Of 29), $9.99
Lament Of The Lamb Vol 7 GN (Of 7), $9.99
Model Vol 7 GN (Of 7), $9.99
My Little Pony Jr Cinemanga Vol 1 GN, $3.99
Rave Master Vol 16 GN (Of 29), $9.99
Rebirth Vol 15 GN (Of 18), $9.99
Rising Stars Of Manga Vol 5 GN (Of 6), $9.99
Rizelmine GN, $9.99
Saiyuki Reload Vol 1 GN (Of 4), $9.99
Samurai Deeper Kyo Vol 15 GN (Of 27), $9.99
Scrapped Princess Vol 1 GN (Of 3), $9.99
Shaolin Sisters Reborn Vol 2 GN (Of 4), $9.99
Shutterbox Vol 3 GN (Of 3), $9.99
Snow Drop Vol 10 GN (Of 12), $9.99
Spongebob Squarepants Cinemanga Vol 9 GN (Of 12), $7.99
Suikoden III Vol 7 GN (Of 8), $9.99
Tokyo Tribes GN Vol 3 (resolicited), $9.99
Tramps Like Us Vol 6 GN (Of 10), $9.99
Vampire Game Vol 12 GN (Of 14), $9.99
TWOMORROWS PUBLISHING
Secrets In The Shadows Art & Life Of Gene Colan SC, $21.95
VIPER COMICS
Karma Incorporated #1 (Of 3), $2.95
Oddly Normal #4 (Of 4), $2.95
Random Encounter #4 (Of 4), $2.95
VIZ LLC
Shojo Beat Aug 05 Vol 1 #2, $5.99
Shonen Jump Sep 05 #33, $4.99
A week off for vacation and the to-read pile is ridiculously high! Oddly enough, for all the comics I bought this week, there weren't too many that inspired a review, positive or negative. Two I did like but didn't get a chance to review were Defenders #1 and Grounded #1. The former was as fun and silly as expected, while the latter was a pleasant surprise that caught me unawares. Check it out here.
The Atheist #2
A taut, black-and-white thriller with a tinge of horror...The Atheist is also the kind of comic book that rewards the discerning reader, one who demands more from their sequential art than guys in spandex punching each other and "crying Martians."
Captain Gravity and The Power of Vril #1
A purposeful homage to the pulpy heroics of the Golden Age, Captain Gravity is similar in tone to Ex Machina, a nominal superhero story whose main appeal lies in its setting and characterization.
House of M #4 (of 8)
If House of M just ends up being a drawn-out, $23.92 What If...? story with few, if any, consequences for the regular Marvel Universe, well that's our own faults for believing the hype.
Be sure to check out all of this week's reviews from Buzzscope's crack staff of reviewers - some of the best out there, if I may say so myself. Plus, I have an interview with Marc Sumerak (Power Pack, Ororo: Before the Storm) that should hopefully go up sometime this week. Be sure to check back for it, and while you're there, sign up and leave some feedback in the forum. It's one of the more level-headed boards out there and while the usual suspects get the most attention, there's plenty of room to talk about good comics, too.
Peace!
Comics Continuum has the Image, Dark Horse and Devil's Due October Solicitations up, and here's what I'm particularly looking forward to reading and/or snarking:
SEASON OF THE WITCH #1
Written by Jai Nitz, art and cover by Kevin Sharpe.Not so much because it sounds interesting - 'cause it doesn't, really - but I enjoyed Nitz' Heaven's Devils mini-series so I'm curious.
"Spring." Jessica Suddreth was a normal high school freshman until she was magically transported to the fairytale world of Asamondo. Once there she trains to be a Spell Sword, a mystical warrior, to lead the peasants against the tyrannical King Elian. The good news is she's the best Spell Sword ever. The bad news is she still has all the emotions and insecurities of a 14-year-old girl and her training includes chopping wood and washing clothes for the peasants. Now, high school doesn't seem so bad. Will she stay in Asamando and work through the hard knocks, or will the comforts of her old life call her home?
32 pages, $3.50, in stores on Oct. 5.
Written by Jeff Amano and Ivan Brandon, art by Mike Hawthorne and Rick Remender, colors by Giulia Bruscom cover by David Mack.Beckett's now paired up with Image and I want to continue to support their stuff. Plus, other than Remender, I've liked previous work by all of the creators involved.
Featuring a brand new David Mack cover, Beckett's controversial first series is finally collected into one massive volume. Chinatown has been overwhelmed by vicious biker gangs. One man is chosen to lead his people to freedom, but the price of victory is more costly than blood and darker than war. Includes a cover gallery as well as behind-the-scenes info with the creators.
224 pages, $19.99, in stores on Oct. 12.
Written by Mario Gully and Marc Hammond, art and cover by Gully.I'm going to pick up the first issue out of curiosity, but I doubt I'll still be intersted by the time this one comes out. Gully comes off as a bit too arrogant on the Image boards - subtly dissing Arcana, where Ant got its start, whenever he can - especially considering how badly written the first series was.
Ant is in desperate pursuit of the man that may hold the key to her misplaced memory. All is not as it seems, though, as Hannah, fresh out of one fight, runs headlong into one of the greatest forces she has ever known: Spawn! He has the power to unlock the secrets of her mind, and she will stop at nothing to get it.
32 pages, $2.99, in stores on Oct. 12.
Written by Phil Hester, art and cover by John McCrea.I loved the first two issues of this comic. Only wish it was a monthly! And not $3.50...
"Incarnate," Part Four: "Sacrifice." Sharpe and Nguyen face the horrifying reality that our world is being invaded by the restless spirits of the dead. The only thing capable of stopping this ghostly army is a doomsday device so terrible even the defense department has tried to destroy it. Sharpe doesn't share their compunctions, but will he be able to use it if it means the death of those closest to him?
32 pages, black and white, $3.50, in stores on Oct. 26.
Written by Miles Gunter and Ivan Brandon, art by Andy MacDonald, cover by Eric Canete.I loved the second issue of this comic. Like swooning kind of love! Hope they can keep it up.
Quentin's in love, but he's headed for a world of pain to match. In perfect Meach fashion, euphoria turns to tragedy and all of it to crime as we build towards a violent climax to Beta Love.
October 5 €32 pg € FC € $2.99
Written by Rick Remender and Kieron Dwyer, art and cover by Paul Harmon.Wow! Didn't think there was eight issues worth of story in this thing. Much as I like Paul Harmon's Mora, it's still not enough to get me back after that horrid second issue.
Janine must face the real, human consequences of her need to consume human blood. Still reeling from the recent deaths around her, she must chose between suicide and eternally perpetuating her own life at the expense of others.
32 pages, $2.99, in stores on Oct. 26.
Written by Scott Wherle, plotted by Jim Valentino, art and cover by Carlos Rodriguez and Marc Deering.Picked up the first three issues of ShadowHawk after enjoying Blacklight #1, and was pleasantly surprised. Solid, unpretentious superhero fun. This issue has two great homage covers, too. Also glad to see Wherle taking over the writing.
"Suffer Not A Corpse to Live." Part Two of the two-part Shadowhawk/Blacklight team-up as the two new heroes come face-to-face with the living zombie, Corpse, and learn a few new things about their own powers! New writer Scott Wherle takes the reins in a team-up that actually matters, as it helps define both characters' personalities and powers!
32 pages, $2.99, in stores on Oct. 19.
Written by Akira Yoshida, art by Paul Lee, cover by Pat Lee.Didn't like P. Craig Russell's take on Conan at all, but Busiek & Nord have me hooked on the character so I'm going to try this one out. How is that any different from the Marvel Zombies that buy anything with Wolverine in it, you ask? It's not, really. I'm a hypocrite!
King Conan travels to the exotic land of Khitai, only to run afoul of an evil sorcerer and his demonic retainers in this tale of silent shadow warriors and ghastly monsters in the Far East. When Conan receives an invitation from the Eastern Kingdom of Khitai to open trade in precious jewels and spices, he decides that he will travel into this long-mysterious land. Yet, to do so is perilous, as those who have requested his company may have far more devious intentions, and beasts unseen by Western eyes lurk amidst the shadows. Set many years in the future from the award-winning on-going series, Conan and the Demons of Khitai marks Conan's first appearance as King in Dark Horse's best-selling comics revival of the legendary fantasy hero.
32 pages, $2.99, in stores on Oct. 5.
Written and art by Eric Powell.Read a lot of good things about The Goon, and Powell's Dark Horse Book of the Dead story was pretty good, so I do believe I'll grab this and give it a try.
Now is the perfect time to get acquainted with the cult-hit as Eisner award-winner Eric Powell and Dark Horse Comics present the original The Goon #1 in a new 25 cent edition that includes a brand-new short story and painted cover by none other than the illustrious Mr. Powell himself. Over the last few years, The Goon has earned both critical and popular acclaim with its tales of a lone thug and his fight against a never-ending onslaught of zombies, giant lizards, and killer robots.
32 pages, 25 cents, in stores on Oct. 12.
Written by Joe Casey, art by Stefano Caselli, cover by Rich Black.The first two issues of this relaunch have been surprisingly good, so I'm looking forward to this one. Particularly liked the casting of Destro as a mercenary arms dealer available to the highest bidder. Fun stuff, nicely illustrated.
With the Joes on the brink of discovering his identity, Vance Wingfield reaches out to a man with no loyalties: Destro! But will the arms-dealer provide him with the key to achieve his ultimate goal, or will he destroy Wingfield and G.I. Joe alike?
32 pages, $2.95.
Written by R.A. Salvatore, adapted by Andrew Dabb, art by Tim Seeley, covers by Seeley, Casey Burns and Tyler Walpole.
Adapting the second volume of R.A. Salvatore's classic Legend of Drizzt Trilogy: Exile! Drizzt Do'urden, a lone hero among the treacherous race of the Drow, has left everything he knows to seek honor and justice in the wilderness of the Underdark. Alone save for the mystical panther Guenhwyvar, he will encounter new allies -- and the new enemies that could destroy them!
48 pages, $4.95 (cardstock cover, $8.95).
CBR has DC's October Solicitations up, and here's what I'm particularly looking forward to reading and/or snarking:
BATMAN: GOTHAM COUNTY LINE #1
Written by Steve Niles; Art and cover by Scott HamptonI enjoyed the couple of IDW titles I've read from Niles, Secret Skull and The Lurkers, and have reconciled myself to the fact that I'll have to get my Batman fix via his mini-series at least until Infinite Crisis is finished, so I'm really looking forward to this one.
Acclaimed writer Steve Niles (30 Days of Night) joins distinctive painter Scott Hampton (BATMAN: NIGHT CRIES) for a 3-issue Prestige Format miniseries that uncovers the investigation of grisly murders outside Batman's usual territory…in the Gotham suburbs! Commissioner Gordon calls on the Dark Knight for help in solving the mystery, although Batman has never delved into the suburbs of Gotham before. But the series of murders is so shocking that Batman must respond, despite being in unfamiliar territory!
On sale Oct 5 o 1 of 3 o Prestige Format o 48 pg, FC, $5.99 US Edited by Joey Cavalieri
Written by A.J. Lieberman; Art by Al Barrionuevo & Bit; Cover by Claudio CastelliniThis title has really fallen off lately, which is disappointing because I thought Lieberman initially had a much better handle on Hush than Loeb did. Just got the axe from my pull list and doesn't look like it's coming back anytime soon. Sad.
Batman and Hush race to find the former Clayfaces and unravel the mystery of the shapechangers! Just when Hush thought he had control over this new Clayface, he's proven wrong. Dead wrong! And when is one Clayface too many?
On sale Oct 19 o 32 pg, FC, $2.50 US
Written by Grant Morrison; Art and cover by Dave McKeanI'm embarassed to admit I've never read this, but I will be rectifying that in October! Maybe it'll be the Morrison story that finally wins me over?
In celebration of the 16th anniversary of the critically acclaimed Batman story that helped launch the U.S. careers of Grant Morrison and Dave McKean, DC Comics is proud to present a softcover edition of the ARKHAM ASYLUM ANNIVERSARY EDITION, reprinting the now-classic confrontation between the Dark Knight and his archnemeses the Joker, Two-Face, Scarecrow, Poison Ivy, and more in the black heart of Gotham City's house for the criminally insane.
On sale October 5 o 212 pg, FC, $17.99 US o MATURE READERS
Written by Andersen Gabrych; Art by Pop Mhan & Jesse Delperdang; Cover by Tim SaleMy favorite Bat-book not called Gotham Central, I'm really liking what Gabrych's been doing here. But yet another Mr. Freeze appearance? WTF?!!?
Don't miss the debut of new penciller Pop Mhan (ROBIN) and cover artist Tim Sale (BATMAN: THE LONG HALLOWEEN)! Encased in ice by Mr. Freeze and held hostage by Nyssa, Batgirl is offered a choice: regain her destiny with the legendary League of Assassins or die a slow, frozen death!
On sale Oct 19 o 32 pg, FC, $2.50 US
Written by Judd Winick; Art by Doug Mahnke, Tom Nguyen and others; Cover by Matt WagnerYeah, right! F' you, Winick. Lazy hack. Not even for free!
Shocking revelations and age-old foes make this new collection - featuring BATMAN #635-641 - a must-have! Batman is confronted with a hidden face from the past - it's the return of the Red Hood! With Black Mask controlling the Gotham underworld, what role will Red Hood have when all is said and done?
On sale Oct 26 o 176 pg, FC, $9.99 US
Written by Greg Rucka & Ed Brubaker; Art by Kano & Stefano Gaudiano; Cover by Sean PhillipsI'm just happy to NOT see "Final Issue" in the solicitation text! Why aren't more people reading this series? Idiot fanboys. You deserve your House of Infinite Constipation crossovers!
The conclusion of the "Dead Robin" storyline! The cops have a dead kid in a Robin outfit, and the evidence is pointing inescapably toward Batman. But how can they catch the Dark Knight? Plus, the leak within the GCPD is revealed!
On sale Oct 5 o 32 pg, FC, $2.50 US
Written by Geoff Johns; Art by Phil Jimenez & Andy Lanning; Covers by Jim Lee & Sandra Hope and George PérezUgh! Speaking of "idiot fanboys," guess who'll be buying this despite avoiding all of the lead-in minis? Yeah. I suck.
On sale October 12 o 1 of 7 o 40 pg, FC, $3.99 US
Written by Scott Beatty; Art by Keron Grant; Cover by Ed McGuinnessMy issues with the art aside, this is a fun comic book! I mean, Monkey-in-the-Middle and Dino-Mite? How you can pass this stuff up and then look yourself in the mirror as you bag and board your copies of House of Infinite Constipation? C'mon y'all!
Featuring a cover by Ed McGuinness (Superman/Batman)! With the evil Witchazel, Monkey-in-the-Middle, and Dino-Mite hot on his heels, things are looking pretty bad for Mikey Devanté - especially since the Coalition of Crime thinks he really is the son of Vulcan!
On sale Oct 5 o 5 of 6 o 32 pg, FC, $2.99 US
Written by Geoff Johns; Art by Carlos D'Anda & Marlo Alquiza; Cover by Tony S. Daniel & AlquizaPhew! Glad I'm dropping this one when Liefeld comes onboard. I refuse to endorse this Red Hood nonsense in any way, shape or form. F' you, Johns, for playing along with that lazy hack Winick! (I should add here that Juniper Lee is actually pretty decent, though Danny Phantom is way better!)
The Red Hood pays the Titans a visit to claim his rightful place…over Robin's dead body! And what does Donna Troy's return mean for the team?
On sale October 19 o 32 pg, FC, $2.50 US
I enjoyed Dark Age #1, so I may pick this up, or one of the previous TPBs, out of curiosity.
Written by Kurt Busiek; Art by Brent Anderson; Cover by Alex Ross
The fifth volume in the ASTRO CITY collection includes ASTRO CITY VOL. 2 #21-22, ASTRO CITY: LOCAL HEROES #1-5 and the ASTRO CITY special, plus the the short story from DC's SEPTEMBER 11th VOL. 2 and the promotional story done to announce the LOCAL HEROES miniseries! This softcover edition features a new painted cover by Alex Ross!
On sale Oct 12 o 256 pg, FC, $17.99 US
Written by Brian Azzarello; Art and cover by Marcelo FrusinThis actually sounded really interesting at the Vertigo panel in Philadelphia last month, so I may check it out.
Wes Cutter is a wanted man running from a violent past - the horrors of the Civil War, a brutal stint in a Union prison camp, and the savage fallout of Reconstruction. Now he's on a quest for the one thing in short supply: peace. Joining Wes is his beautiful wife Ruth, a woman who has been to hell and back herself - and hides dark secrets of her own. The road they travel will be a bloody one, leaving a trail of bodies stretching from Missouri to the Pacific Ocean. This is a tale only Azzarello - the mind behind some of the hardest-hitting comics of the last decade - could tell.
On sale October 26 o 40 pg, FC, $2.99 US o MATURE READERS o Edited by Will Dennis
Written by Andy Diggle; Art and cover by JockSounds like it's finally coming to an end. I'm really going to miss this book. *sigh*
Part 1 of "Endgame." It's all been building to this: With New Jerusalem behind him, Max lays it all on the line - his plans, his origins, and the stakes, which are nothing short of global. Now it's Max vs. the Losers with the world hanging in the balance, and the Losers will have to play every card in their hand to win.
On sale Oct 26 o 32 pg, FC, $2.99 US o MATURE READERS
Buzzscope has Marvel's October Solicitations up, and here's what I'm particularly looking forward to reading and/or snarking:
House of M #8 (of 8)
Marvel's big summer event that may or may not have huge repercussions for the entire Marvel Universe, depending on which interview you read, concludes. One thing's clear already, it's yet another story centering on Wolverine and, if this cover is more than the usual tease, maybe he finally gets to kill someone of consequence. Of course, Bendis' latest comments over on NEWSarama imply it might not even really be Magneto! Again...
6. The Avengers were Earth's Mightiest Heroes, a status they achieved because they don't give up no matter the odds. Please explain why Captain America handed over the body of his friend to a mutant terrorist who had attacked New York City in the not recent past and who was thought to be dead. If, as has been claimed in some online interviews, Magneto snatched her body too quickly for him to react (despite the art showing Cap handing the body over), why didn't the Avengers take a day to recoup and then try to find and rescue her?*sigh*
He handed a daughter to his father. Or did he?
Written by KEITH GIFFEN; Pencils and Cover by EDU FRANCISCOMARVEL MONSTERS: FIN FANG FOUR
When the supernatural proves too difficult and dangerous for SHIELD, Nick Fury fights fire with fire! Introducing the top secret weapon in the battle against other worldly threats, the HOWLING COMMANDOS, a special covert “shock and awe” unit made up of Marvel’s greatest horror characters. Join Warwolf, the Living Mummy, Frankenstein, the Zombie, Vampire by Night and a whole army of the macabre in this fantastic first issue! This series will have far reaching ramifications in the Marvel Universe!
32 PGS/T+ SUGGESTED FOR TEENS AND UP ...$2.99
Written by ROGER LANGRIDGE & MICK GRAY; Penciled by ROGER LANGRIDGE; Cover by ERIC POWELLTwo of my favorite recent mini-series get sequels:
Four giant monsters—incarcerated for years for their crimes against humanity—now find themselves shrunk to human size and working at the home of the very people who captured them: the Fantastic Four! Meet Googam, Son of Goom (and the Baxter Building’s parking lot attendant), Elektro (the robot with a forbidden love), Gorgilla (expert window-washer) and Fin Fang Foom (head chef at a classy Chinese restaurant)! But when Goom’s mad plan to rescue his father goes awry, the quartet must put aside their differences and become—the Fin Fang Four! Join Eisner and Harvey Award nominee Roger Langridge (Fred the Clown, Knuckles the Malevolent Nun) in this wild romp through the Marvel Universe! Plus: Witness the first appearance of Fin Fang Foom in a classic story by Jack Kirby and Dick Ayers from Strange Tales #89, October 1961!
48 PGS./T+ SUGGESTED FOR TEENS AND UP ...$3.99
Written by RICHARD K. MORGAN; Layouts by SEAN PHILLIPS; Finishes & Cover by BILL SIENKIEWICZX-MEN AND POWER PACK #1 (of 4)
32 PGS./ PARENTAL ADVISORY ...$2.99
Written by MARC SUMERAK; Pencils and Cover by GURIHIRUThought this one was interesting, considering how I feel the X-Men: Reloaded stunt crippled the book. An unexpected acknowledgement of that, and an apologetic tip of the hat to Weir and DeFilippis, perhaps?
32 PGS./ALL AGES ...$2.99
Written by CHRISTINA WEIR & NUNZIO DEFILIPPIS; Penciled by GEORGES JEANTY; Cover by AARON LOPRESTIWhich ones are you looking forward to?
The New Mutants are at their absolute lowest. Will the kids be able to work out their problems and become a team again?! A special issue celebrating the run on New X-Men by writers Nunzio DeFilippis and Christina Weir! Featuring Handbook-style entries on all your favorite New Mutants and Hellions characters!
48 PGS./T+ SUGGESTED FOR TEENS AND UP ...$3.99
The myriad comic book-related blogs that have sprung up over the past couple of years run the gamut from unpretentious reviews and commentary by enthusiastic fans to jaded bile and snark by agenda-driven wannabes looking to break into the industry. The Comic Weblog Linkatron 5000 links to them all without prejudice so I thought I'd offer up quick takes on some of my favorites, all linked (and newly updated) in the left-hand column under Comic Blogs.
The Beat
Heidi MacDonald is the real deal, an industry veteran covering the news of the day with an occasional dose of intelligent snark. Only downside is comicon.com's unpredicatble server.
The Comics Reporter
The closest thing to comics journalism online, it's the NY Times to NEWSarama's NY Post.
Comics Should Be Good
A group blog featuring intelligent reviews and insightful commentary, including the fun "Comic Book Urban Legends Revealed" column.
Comics Worth Reading
The blog is actually Cognitive Dissonance, but it's always best to stop at Johanna's main page first to make sure you're not missing anything. Her tips on reviewing are a must-read for any comics blogger.
Dave's Long Box
Always entertaining reviews of seemingly random comics pulled from his collection, he was deservedly spotlighted in Newsweek (or one of those magazines) a while back.
Dial B for Blog
I'm at a bit of a loss to describe this one, but it's fun and always worth checking out.
Fanboy Rampage
A mix of news and excerpts from various message boards, it's one-stop shopping for fanboy idiocy and holier-than-thou snark.
Gelatometti
The artists of Wildstorm's group blog, including Jim Lee, their Iron Chef sketch-offs are always fun.
Glyphs
Spotlighting the "color" in the 4-color world of comics, Rich Watson focuses on creators and characters of color.
Gordy's Blog
Though not updated recently, it's Bumperboy's best friend Gordy's blog.
Hannibal Tabu's BUY PILE
One of the first online reviewers I came across when I got back into comics, while our tastes don't always intersect, Tabu covers a nice range of mainstream comics every week.
The Pickytarian
One of the better individual blog sites, mostly reviews and occasional commentary.
a store called RIOT!
The ongoing adventures of a guy opening a comic book shop in PA. Fascinating stuff.
Shrew Review
Great reviews, especially of DCU titles.
Zilla and the Comics Junkies
Great new blog by a recent returnee to comics.
Jim Aparo is one of the first artists I have a distinct memory of from my earliest days of collecting comics, and his version of Batman remains to this day one of my favorites. He was one of the first artists whose styles I could recognize at first glance and who could get me to pick up a comic book I normally wouldn't, including Aquaman!
When people say "they don't make them like they used to," they could easily be talking about Jim Aparo. Rest in peace. (Batman and the Outsiders #1 cover courtesy of the Grand Comic Book Database.)
The following press release was sent out earlier this evening by Mike Carbonaro of Big Apple Con:
The Aparo Family has asked me to send this information out to all parties. It is with the deepest regret I have to inform you of the passing of the legendary Jim Aparo early Tuesday Morning, July 19, 2005. Mr. Aparo, who was 72, died from complications relating to a recent illness. All Funeral arrangements will be a private ceremony for Family and Friends of Jim.
Aparo, born in 1932, was primarily self-trained as an artist. After years of working in commercial fashion design in Connecticut, his first break in the comics field was with a comic strip called "Stern Wheeler," written by Ralph Kanna, which was published in 1963 in a Hartford, Connecticut newspaper for less than a year. In 1966, editor Dick Giordano at Charlton Comics hired him as a comic book artist, where his first assignment was a humorous character called "Miss Bikini Luv" in "Go-Go Comics." Over the next few years at Charlton, Aparo drew stories in many genres–Westerns, science fiction, romance, horror, mystery, and suspense.
Aparo was notable for being one of the relatively few artists in mainstream comics at that time to serve as penciler, inker, and letterer for all of his work. These tasks were typically divided between two or more artists.
In the late 1960s, Aparo moved on to National Publications/DC Comics, which is where he came to fame in the Comics Community. Originally starting at DC on the Aquaman title, he then moved on to also work on the Phantom Stranger and DC's horror titles.
In 1971, Aparo worked on his first Issue of Brave & The Bold. Issue 98 featured the Phantom Stranger teaming up with Batman. Beginning with Issue 102 Jim was then the regular artist on the series and provided pencils & inks on almost every issue from 102 until the end of the series with Issue 200. Jim's work on Brave and the Bold was his favorite work of his time at DC as he truly considered the series his "baby." Also during this period Jim did one of the seminal runs on The Spectre, where his realistic style made the Ghostly character truly come to life.
After the end of Brave and the Bold, Aparo was CO-creator for Batman & The Outsiders and also worked on the regular Batman and Detective Comics Series throughout the 1980s and early 1990s. most notably doing the Pencils on the "Death in The Family" storyline, which featured a phone-in vote deciding the fate of Robin II, Jason Todd.
Following a run on the regular Green Arrow Series, Aparo moved into semiretirement, contributing an occasional special or cover and doing a few private commissions before he eventually decided to move into full retirement.
He is survived by his wife Julie, his 3 children, his 4 Grandchildren and two step-grandchildren.
The Aparo family has asked that in lieu of Flowers or gifts, anyone wishing to honor Jim's legacy make a contribution to any worthy charity, as Jim believed that all charities were worth donating to.
For those wishing to send along their condolences and best wishes to the family, a P.O. Box has been set up for the family to receive cards. The address is:
THE APARO FAMILY
P.O. BOX 28
NORWALK, CONNECTICUT 06852 - 0028
Thanks to all who have loved Jim's work and have supported his career.
Diamond Comic Distributors has announced this weekend in San Diego that Free Comic Book Day 2006 will take place on Saturday, May 6th, the second consecutive year the event will take place separate from the release of a comic book-based movie. Marketing will be in full swing for the summer slate of comic book-inspired movies, though, including Zoom's Academy, scheduled for release the following weekend, May 12th; X3, May 23rd; and Superman Returns, June 30th.
It also won't fall on Mother's Day weekend again, a poor bit of scheduling that made it difficult for some fathers **ahem** to fully participate in the festivities.
Hopefully more publishers and retailers will fully embrace the event, offering a wider range of comic books to appeal to as diverse an audience as possible, and Diamond will step up to the plate with a stronger mainstream marketing platform to promote it. Doesn't matter if they're free if only the same ol' customers know about them!
Check out my obscenely full coverage of Free Comic Book Day 2005 over at Buzzscope.
Support Independent Comics!
Independent comics (and manga) being released tomorrow, 7/20/05, courtesy of ComicList. Not all of these titles will actually arrive in all stores. If your LCBS offers a pre-ordering service, be sure to take advantage of it.
Recommendations, sometimes blind, in BOLD. Which ones are YOU reading?
ACTIVE IMAGES
Gunpowder Girl & Outlaw Squaw GN, $12.95
A. D. VISION
Chrono Crusade Manga Vol 6 TPB, $9.99
Cromartie High School Manga Vol 3 TPB, $10.95
Yotsuba Manga Vol 2 TPB, $9.99
ALIAS ENTERPRISES LLC
Killer Stunts Inc #3 (Of 4), $2.99
ANGEL GATE PRESS
10th Muse #1-6 Coll Pack, $6.00
ANTARCTIC PRESS
AP How To Draw Manga Next Generation #7, $4.95
Gold Digger #65, $2.99
How To Draw Manga The Fred Perry Way DVD, AR
I Hunt Monsters Vol 2 #7, $2.99
Legends From Darkwood Summer Fun Special, $2.99
Mangazine Vol 3 #67, $9.99
Ninja High School #130, $2.99
Weapons File #2, $4.95
ARCHIE COMIC PUBLICATIONS
Archie & Friends #93, $2.25
Archie Digest #218, $2.39
Betty & Veronica Double Digest #135, $3.59
Veronica #163, $2.25
ASPEN MLT INC
Soulfire Dying Of The Light #0, $2.50
ASYLUM PRESS
Deadly Are The Naked Art Of Jim Smith SC, $9.95
Lady Death Death Goddess Lopez Cvr, $5.99
Lady Death Death Goddess Nouveau Cvr, $5.99
Lady Death Death Goddess Platinum Foil Cvr, AR
Lady Death Death Goddess Premium Cvr, $9.99
AVATAR PRESS
Brian Pulidos Medieval Lady Death #5, $3.99
Brian Pulidos Medieval Lady Death Foil Inc #5, AR
Brian Pulidos Medieval Lady Death Premium Cvr #5, $9.99
Brian Pulidos Medieval Lady Death Serenity Ed #2, $5.99
Brian Pulidos Medieval Lady Death Wraparound #5, $3.99
Brian Pulidos War Angel Fiery Reaper Ed #1 (Of 3), $5.99
Frank Millers Robocop Kicking Ass Ed #8 (Of 9), $5.99
Friday The 13th Sp Painted Cvr #1, $5.99
Lady Death Abandon All Hope #1/2 Vengeance Ed, $5.99
Lady Death Death Goddess, $2.50
Medieval Lady Death Belladonna #1/2, $2.99
Medieval Lady Death Belladonna Art Nouveau Cvr #1/2, $2.99
Medieval Lady Death Belladonna Art Plat Foil Incentive #1/2, $3.75
Medieval Lady Death Belladonna Martin Cvr #1/2, $2.99
Medieval Lady Death Belladonna Ryp Cvr #1/2, $2.99
Medieval Lady Death Belladonna Wraparound Cvr #1/2, $2.99
Nightmare On Elm St Sp Painted Cvr #1, $5.99
Texas Chainsaw Massacre Sp Painted Cvr #1, $5.99
BONGO COMICS
Roswell Walks Among Us TPB (AA), $12.95
Simpsons Comics #108, $2.99
CHANTING MONKS STUDIOS
Wulf & Batsy #1, $5.95
COMIC CAVALCADE
Lady Death Death Goddess Gold Foil Cvr, $5.99
Medieval Lady Death Belladonna Commemorative Cvr #1/2, $5.99
Medieval Lady Death Belladonna Gold Foil Cvr #1/2, $5.99
DABEL BROTHERS PRODUCTIONS LLC
Red Sonja #1, $2.99
Red Sonja Fiery Red Foil High End Ed #1, AR
DARK HORSE COMICS
Billy The Kids Old Time Oddities #4 (Of 4), $2.99
Conan #18, $2.99
Goon #13, $2.99
Musical War Of The Worlds T/S Black LG, $17.99
Musical War Of The Worlds T/S Black MED, $17.99
Musical War Of The Worlds T/S Black XL, $17.99
Musical War Of The Worlds T/S Black XXL, $19.99
Star Wars Clone Wars Vol 6 On The Fields Of Battle TPB, $17.95
Tony Millionaire Drinky Crow PVC (AA), $19.99
DEVILS DUE PUBLISHING
Army Of Darkness Shop Til You Drop Dead Foil #4, AR
Forgotten Realms Dark Elf Homeland Cvr A #2 (Of 3), $4.95
Forgotten Realms Dark Elf Homeland Cvr B #2 (Of 3), $8.95
Mu Mark Lee Cvr A #4, $2.95
Mu Minwoo Hyung Cvr B #4, $2.95
DIGITAL WEBBING
Aiden Mckain Chronicles Battle For Earth #1, $2.99
EUREKA PRODUCTIONS
Graphic Classics Vol 12 Adventure Classics, $11.95
EXHIBIT A PRESS
Supernatural Law First Ammendment Issue, $3.50
FANTAGRAPHICS BOOKS
Art & Beauty #1 (AA), $4.95
Love & Rockets Vol 2 #14, $4.50
Mineshaft #15, $5.00
Squa Tront #11 (AA), $10.95
Tales Designed To Thrizzle #1, $4.50
FC9 PUBLISHING
Nightmare World Vol 1 TPB, $9.99
GEMSTONE PUBLISHING
Donald Duck And Friends #330, $2.95
Mickey Mouse And Friends #279, $2.95
Mickey Mouse Meets Blotman, $5.99
GRAPHIX
Bone Vol 2 Great Cow Race Color Ed HC, $18.95
Bone Vol 2 Great Cow Race Color Ed SC, $9.99
IDW PUBLISHING
Castlevania The Belmont Legacy #5 (Of 5), $3.99
Heartbreakers Meet Boilerplate GN, $9.99
IMAGE COMICS
Atheist #2, $3.50
Girls #3, $2.99
Girls 2nd Prtg #2, $2.95
Girls 3rd Prtg #1, $2.95
Grounded #1 (Of 6), $2.95
Invincible Vol 1 Ultimate Coll HC, $34.95
Lullaby Wisdom Seeker #4 (Of 4), $2.95
Rising Stars Voices Of The Dead #2 (Of 6), $2.99
Silencers Vol 2 #1, $2.99
Strykeforce TPB, $16.99
Wildguard Fools Gold #2 (Of 2), $3.50
Witchblade #87, $2.99
MIRAGE STUDIOS
Tales Of Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles #12, $3.25
NBM
Lucifers Garden Of Verses Vol 2 Darlin Niki HC, $15.95
ONI PRESS INC.
Marquis Vol 1 Danse Macabre TPB, $18.95
Northwest Passage #1, $5.95
PANINI PUBLISHING LTD
Doctor Who Dragons Claw (AA), $24.95
Doctor Who The Tides Of Time GN, $24.95
REBELLION
2000 AD #1443, $4.10
2000 AD #1444, $4.10
2000 AD Extreme Ed #10, $5.99
Judge Dredd Megazine #233, $11.99
SHANDA FANTASY ARTS
Katmandu #32 (resolicited), $4.99
SPEAKEASY COMICS
Gatesville Company #1, $2.99
Mutation #1, $2.99
Parting Ways Near Life Experiences Of Peter Orbach GN, $12.99
STARWARP CONCEPTS
Lorelei Vol 1 Building The Perfect Beast TPB, $9.95
TITAN PUBLISHING
Transformers Way Of The Warrior TPB, $7.95
TOHAN CORPORATION
Animage June 2005, $12.99
Animedia June 2005, $9.99
Dengeki Animaga #17, $24.99
Dengeki Gs Mag June 2005, $17.99
Dengeki Hobby Jul 2005, $18.99
Dengeki Hobby Jun 2005, $18.99
Dengeki Layers #4, $12.99
Dragon Quest Viii Gd Bk, $11.99
Figure King Encyclopedia #88, $20.99
Figure Maniacs Special #15, $27.99
Gashu Sumeragi Natsuki Illus SC, $55.99
Gothic & Lolita Bible Extra, $25.99
Hobby Japan Jul 2005, $12.99
Howls Moving Castle Film Comic #3, $11.99
Howls Moving Castle Film Comic #4, $11.99
Howls Moving Castle Piano Solo Album, $23.99
Hyper Hobby June 2005, $16.99
Le Portrait De Petit Cossette SC, $12.99
Maid Cafe Style Welcome Home Mr Right SC, $29.99
Megami Mag Jun 2005, $14.99
Model Graphix Jul 2005, $15.99
Newtype June 2005, $10.99
Oh My Goddess Complete Manga Vol 1, $18.99
Pash #2, $14.99
Quanto Mag June 2005, $9.99
School Rumble Format Materials SC, $29.99
Slip SC, $39.99
TOKYOPOP
Btx Vol 1-4 GN Set, $19.99
Candidate For Goddess Vol 1-4 GN Set, $19.99
Rising Stars Of Manga Vol 1-4 GN Set, $19.99
Scryed Vol 1-4 GN Set, $19.99
VANGUARD PRODUCTIONS
Eyes Of Light Fantasy Drawings Frank Brunner SC 2nd Ptg (AA), $16.95
Great War Of Magellan Magazine, $6.99
Thrilling Comic Book Cover Art Of Alex Schomberg HC, $34.95
Wizard King Trilogy Book 1 Dlx HC King Of The World (AA), $39.95
VEROTIK
Satanika Tales #2, $3.95
VIPER COMICS
Art Of Josh Howard Vol 1 SC, $11.95
VONSHOLLYWOOD
Sergeantstein GN, $14.95
The friendly rivalry between Marvel and DC knows no boundaries. What started decades ago in print has now spilled over onto celluloid. About a month apart in their release dates, the iconic figures of Batman in DC's Batman Begins, and Marvel's Fantastic Four battle it out for comic book supremacy on film. Two different paths, two different beginnings, but ultimately, both will win.
Batman Begins got off on the right foot from the start by signing its director, Chris Nolan. The film was the beneficiary of a lot of buzz before its release, followed by positive reviews from critics and fanboys alike. Warner Bros. has had everything fall into place to make this film the critical and box office success that it is. I have no hesitation in saying that Nolan and the studio have succeeded in making the greatest super hero film of all time. The latest figures show that Batman Begins has earned $174 million domestically since its release 28 days ago.
Remarkably, the best part of the movie-going experience for Batman Begins is when you leave the theater. You don't feel like you just watched a "super hero" movie; it feels like you've just seen a damn good film, period. No need for any qualifying statements about it being a comic book / super hero film. Even though Ebert & Roeper, among countless other critics, may have liked Batman Begins, only a fanboy can truly understand the sense of awe I felt when the movie was over. It earned 5 out of 5 Batarangs.
Fantastic Four, however, is the polar opposite. This movie was DOOMED (I couldn't resist) to fail. Tim Story...who the &*#@ is Tim Story?!? Don't get me wrong, Barber Shop was good, but name another movie he directed...
...
Are those crickets I hear? Fox and Marvel took a big chance with him as director.
The buzz for FF was overwhelming. Overwhelmingly bad, that is. Statements like, "It's gonna suck," and, "It's gonna really suck," were all over the internet. This was even before the first trailer came out! Days before its release, reviews started hitting the internet. At that point it seemed like a lost cause, FF was going to be a bomb.
To say Fantastic Four received "mixed" reviews would be putting it very kindly. A mixed review is like kissing your sister; yeah its a kiss, but it's your sister. Besides that, many of the so called "mixed" reviews read like bad ones. They must have been fans at one point in their lives. Movies.com cited 10 major publications, ranging from the Chicago Sun-Times to TV Guide: 4 negative reviews, 6 mixed. I would say excluding comic book-related sites, FF garnered similar, if not worse reviews.
[On a quick side note, how did this movie get a PG-13 rating? Mr. & Mrs. Smith is PG-13, and there is more violence and sexual content in their trailers than in the whole Fantastic Four movie. Maybe the MPAA thought the stretching ability of Mr. Fantastic was too suggestive? It just seems odd.]
Now after its opening weekend, where it made $56.1 million, people are scratching their heads. Fox expected the film to earn "somewhere in the high 30's range". Talk about exceeding expectations! To top it off, Fantastic Four led the way to the first up weekend in 19 weeks as compared to last year's box office figures.
Now lets apply standard box office math. With a customary 50% 2nd week box office drop-off ($28 million), FF will have have earned back roughly 80% of its budget domestically. I don’t think this is going to happen, though. My guess is FF will struggle to earn $20 million this coming week. I wouldn’t be surprised if it was less. All the mixed reviews will finally catch up with it and pinch sales.
Leaving the theater I wondered if this would be a one and done film. To be honest the movie wasn’t all that great, but it showed promise. It proved to me that a live-action Fantastic Four can work. The film just needed more refinement to capture the spirit of who the Fantastic Four are.
The best way to sum up the film would be to say, every specific complaint and endorsement you’ve heard about the film is true. Yet somehow, Fantastic Four is just good enough not to suck completely. Oh my, I just gave FF a mixed review! It earned 2.5 outta 5 Genetically Altered DNA Molecules.
[My question about if this film was a one and done deal had been answered by Monday. It was reported by the The Los Angeles Times that Avi Arad, chairman of Marvel Studios said, "Of course there will be sequel."]
My latest feature over at Buzzscope is a column called Industry Buzz, a monthly roundtable featuring some of the most outspoken creators, retailers, pundits and advocates in comics commenting on the issues affecting the comics industry. Check it out and add your two cents to the discussion!
The Participants
Ronée Garcia Bourgeois - National VP / PR, Friends Of Lulu
Johanna Draper Carlson - Reviewer, Comics Worth Reading
Gerry Gladston - President, Midtown Comics
Brian Scot Johnson - Proprietor, Khepri.com
Frank Miller - Proprietor, Richmond Comix
Chris Pitzer - Publisher, AdHouse Books
Jason Rodriguez - Editor, Hoarse & Buggy
Rose Vess - Reviewer, Shrew Review
Scott Wherle - Writer, Blacklight
Plus, Special Guest: Jim Salicrup - Editor, Papercutz
The Topic:
Kids & comics. Is the comics industry so healthy that it doesn't need an infusion of fresh blood to keep it going? Where does manga fit in? And what about Marvel's 7/11 deal?
The Highlights:
IS HAWKINS CORRECT IN SAYING THAT "COMICS AREN'T REALLY FOR KIDS ANYMORE"? IF SO, WHAT DOES THAT MEAN FOR THE FUTURE GROWTH OF THE INDUSTRY?
"When you're announcing that one of your main characters has two penises (the X-Men's Nightcrawler) and you've got tentacle porn in a mainstream book -- Outsiders #20 -- then you are firmly outside the realm of Comics Are for Kids."
HOW ARE TODAY'S BEST-SELLERS - ie: NEW AVENGERS, ASTONISHING X-MEN, SUPERMAN/BATMAN - DIFFERENT FROM THE COMICS OF THE 70S AND 80S THAT WERE, PRESUMABLY, MORE KID-FRIENDLY?
"Despite some people thinking that today's comics are vastly more mature or sophisticated than comics from previous eras, they are mistaken."
WHAT ABOUT MANGA? IS IT OVERLOOKED WHEN IT COMES TO THIS TOPIC?
"...they're a big hit in book stores, not to mention across the pond where they sell in the millions and their creators are treated like rock stars as opposed to societal rejects. What are we doing wrong here?"
WHAT DO YOU THINK OF MARVEL'S 7/11 DISTRIBUTION DEAL AND THE $1.99 MARVEL ADVENTURES COMIC THEY KICKED IT OFF WITH? GOOD FOR THE INDUSTRY, OR JUST FOR MARVEL?
The distribution deal? Great. Marvel Adventures? Horrible. Look, the Marvel Adventures comics are dumbed-down doo-doo, based on what is perceived by parents and powers-that-be as "what kids want".
WHAT COMIC BOOKS WOULD YOU RECOMMEND TO A BRAND NEW PRE-TEEN/TEENAGE READER?
"Why the hell isn't Warner Bros/DC working with J.K. Rowling to add promotional comic books into the movie licensing deals? Kids would be lined up around to block for Harry Potter #0."
In my never-ending quest for great independent comics, I've come across some real gems and promoted the hell out of them. 100 Girls, Fade From Grace, Western Tales of Terror, Elk's Run and Skyscrapers of the Midwest are all great reads that not nearly enough people know about. The latest inductee to that stellar group is...
{drum roll, please}
Debbie Huey's Bumperboy!
I reviewed it this week for Buzzscope, but wanted to give it an extra special shout-out because it's THAT kind of good. Check out bumperboy.net if you want to really get sucked in like I've been. There's the great "Meet the Gang" section with pictures and short bios of the main cast; adorable pictures of Bumberboy's real world travels in the "sightings" section; some cool wallpaper - I have the up, up, and away one at home and at work! - in the "downloads" section; "gordy's blog," featuring the musings of Bumperboy's sock-wearing, marble-playing bear buddy; and a "shop" with some great swag that I will be purchasing later this week.
For all wannabe comics creators, bumperboy.net is marketing done the right way! If Debbie Huey doesn't get snatched up and given an animation deal by somebody in San Diego this week, Hollywood's just not doing its job!
Support Independent Comics!
Independent comics (and manga) being released tomorrow, 7/13/05, courtesy of ComicList. Not all of these titles will actually arrive in all stores. If your LCBS offers a pre-ordering service, be sure to take advantage of it.
Recommendations, sometimes blind, in BOLD. Which ones are YOU reading?
AC COMICS
AC Superhero Marathon Pack, $24.50
Femforce #132, $6.95
ACTOR
Actor Teen Titans #20 Sgn, $19.99
Actor What If General Ross Had Become The Hulk Sgn, $19.99
ALIAS ENTERPRISES LLC
Devils Keeper #1, $0.75
Legend Of Isis #2, $2.99
Pakkins Land Vol 2 #3, $2.99
Penny & Aggie #2 (Of 4), $2.99
AMAZE INK (SLAVE LABOR GRAPHICS)
Nightmares & Fairy Tales Vol 2 Beautiful Beasts TPB, $14.95
Nightmares And Fairy Tales #13, $2.95
Silent Dance GN, $14.95
ANIME WORKS PUBLICATIONS
Eiken Vol 1 GN, $9.99
Samurai Man Vol 1 GN, $9.99
Shriek Show Mark Of Shadow #2, $2.99
ARCANA STUDIO
Assassin #1, $4.95
ARCHIE COMIC PUBLICATIONS
Betty & Veronica Digest #158, $2.39
Jugheads Double Digest #114, $3.59
Sabrina Vol 2 #68, $2.25
Sonic The Hedgehog #151, $2.25
CLAYPOOL COMICS
Soulsearchers #72, $2.50
DARK HORSE COMICS
Berserk Vol 8 TPB, $13.95
Blade Of The Immortal #103, $2.99
Man With The Screaming Brain #3 (Of 4), $2.99
Michael Chabon Presents Adv O/T Escapist #7, $8.95
Serenity Cassaday Cvr #1 (Of 3), $2.99
Serenity Hitch Cvr #1 (Of 3), $2.99
Serenity J G Jones Cvr #1 (Of 3), $2.99
Star Wars Tales #24, $5.99
Star Wars Tales Photo Cvr #24, $5.99
Super Manga Blast #53, $5.99
Too Much Coffee Man How To Be Happy TPB, $12.95
DEVILS DUE PUBLISHING
GI Joe #0 2nd Ptg, $2.95
DIGITAL NOIXE
Delete #2 (resolicited), $2.99
DORK STORM PRESS
Dork Tower #31, $2.99
Dr Blink Superhero Shrink #2, $3.49
FANTAGRAPHICS BOOKS
Canvas One Shot (AA), $9.95
Comics Journal #269, $9.95
Holy Moly (AA), $4.95
Lizard Zen (AA), $9.95
Pin-Up Art Of Bill Wenzel, $18.95
Usagi Yojimbo Vol 4 SC, $16.95
FRIGHTWORLD STUDIOS
Living With Zombies #3, $2.50
GEN: ERIC PUBLISHING
Lackluster World #3, $3.95
HEADLESS SHAKESPEARE PRESS
Brontes Infernal Angria #1 (Of 3), $4.00
HEAVY METAL MAGAZINE
Universe Of Liberatore HC, $19.95
IDW PUBLISHING
Angel The Curse #2 (Of 5), $3.99
Complete Jon Sable Freelance Vol 2 HC, $39.99
Dampyr #4 Nocturne In Red, $7.99
Smoke #2 (Of 3), $7.49
IMAGE COMICS
Armor X #4, $2.95
Body Bags Fathers Day #1 (Of 2), $5.99
Cholly & Flytrap #4 (Of 4), $5.95
City Of Heroes #3, $2.99
Dale Keown Darkness #18 Litho Sgn, $29.99
Freshmen Linsner Cvr #1, $2.99
Freshmen Migliari Cvr #1, $2.99
Freshmen Perez Cvr #1, $2.99
Guncandy #1 (Of 2), $5.99
Hero Camp #3 (Of 4), $2.95
Invincible #24, $2.99
Keu Cha Pirate Darkness Litho Sgn, $29.99
McFarlanes Sports Picks MLB Series 12 Fig Asst, AR
Ride Vol 1 TPB, $9.99
Shadowhawk #3, $2.99
Small Gods Special #1, $2.95
Walking Dead #20, $2.99
Zombie King #0, $2.95
INFINITY STUDIOS
Hurrah Sailor Vol 1 GN (Of 2), $9.95
Popo Can Vol 1 GN, $9.95
MOONSTONE
Wyatt Earp Dodge City #2, $2.95
NITE OWL COMIX
Max Hamm Fairy Tale Detective Vol 1 TPB, $14.95
ODDGOD PRESS
Strange Detective Tales Dead Love #1 (Of 3), $3.95
ONI PRESS INC.
Banana Sundays #1 (Of 4), $2.99
TOO HIP GOTTAGO GRAPHICS
Wahoo Morris Vol 2 #1, $2.75
TWOMORROWS PUBLISHING
Justice League Companion Vol 1 SC, $24.95
VEROTIK
Chiodo Darkworks (AA), $24.95
Intense Art Of Simon Bisley (AA), $24.95
VIPER COMICS
Middleman #1 (Of 4), $2.95
VIZ LLC
Cheeky Angel Vol 7 GN, $9.95
Descendants Of Darkness Vol 6 GN, $9.99
Flame Of Recca Vol 12 TPB, $9.99
From Far Away Vol 5 GN, $9.99
Here Is Greenwood Vol 5 GN, $9.99
Saikano Vol 5 GN, $9.95
Sexy Voice And Robo Vol 1 GN, $19.99
W Juliet Vol 5 GN, $9.99
W.W. NORTON
Plot Secret Story Of Protocols Of The Elders Of Zion, $19.95
[NOTE: A light week last week led to only three reviews, and my 7th wedding anniversary and a trip to New Orleans means I probably won't get any done this week.]
Bumperboy Loses His Marbles
You show me someone who wouldn't enjoy the adventures of Bumperboy, and I'll show you someone who needs a good punch in the face!
Marvel Team-Up #10
Between the over-arching Titannus storyline that started back in the first issue, and the over-extended setups that stretch each arc to trade length while adding little of importance to the story itself, this version of Marvel Team-Up comes off as a bit self-indulgent, both on Kirkman and Marvel's parts.
Son of Vulcan #2 (of 6)
If you're looking for some good old-fashioned superheroing that isn't bogged down by, as Kyle Baker might put it, "crying Martians," Son of Vulcan is your ticket. Plus, an interview with writer Scott Beatty.
Be sure to check out all of this week's reviews from Buzzscope's crack staff of reviewers - some of the best out there, if I may say so myself. Plus, Joe Doughrity's must-read interview with Kyle Baker. While you're there, sign up and leave some feedback in the forum. It's one of the more level-headed boards out there and while the usual suspects get the most attention, there's plenty of room to talk about good comics, too.
Peace!
The Comic Book Legal Defense Fund has learned that a date of September 12 has been set to begin the trial of the Gordon Lee case. The trial is scheduled to begin just four days following the hearing on the motions filed by CBLDF counsel. To date, the Fund has spent in excess of $30,000 defending this case and anticipates needing to spend at least that much to properly wage the trial.
Since January the Fund has waged an aggressive defense of Lee, who faces two counts of the felony charge “Distribution of Material Depicting Nudity or Sexual Conduct” (OCGA §16-12-81), a law that bans the unsolicited delivery of any content depicting nudity to any person in the state of Georgia and carries a penalty of one to three years in prison and/or fines of up to $10,000. One of the two counts is for handing the comic to the alleged victim, and the other is for handing the comic to an alleged John or Jane Doe. Lee is also charged with five counts of violating the misdemeanor of “Distribution of Material Harmful to Minors” (OCGA §16-12-103). He is charged with three discrete counts of violating the law for handing a single copy of the comic book to the alleged victim. He is also charged with two counts for allegedly giving the comics to John or Jane Doe. Last May, Alan Begner and Paul Cadle, attorneys representing Lee for the Comic Book Legal Defense Fund, filed four motions challenging these counts.
CBLDF Executive Director Charles Brownstein says, “Our legal team has been working hard in anticipation of a trial, and now that we have a date on the horizon they are moving full steam ahead in preparing our case. We’re optimistic about our arguments going in.”
“That said,” Brownstein adds, “the late summer trial date places even greater urgency on our fundraising initiatives this summer. The strategy we’re working from is aggressive, and a first rate, aggressive legal strategy is very expensive to maintain. This summer, more so than any other time since I’ve been at the Fund, we need the support of the comics community. We need generous bids at our San Diego and Wizard World auctions, we need people to sign up and renew their memberships, and we need supporters who believe in the importance of the work we’re doing to increase their support. We have the brainpower at our disposal to wage a first rate defense, but now, more than ever, we need the money to pay for that defense. This is war time, and we need the combined support of the professional, retail, publishing, and fan communities to help us wage this war properly.”
CBLDF HOSTS ALL-STAR SAN DIEGO AUCTION
Details and more info here...
With most of my content going over to Buzzscope these days, Comic Book Commentary is looking like the red-headed stepchild since no one else has stepped up to fill the void. As a result, most of our traffic is now coming from Google searches hitting old content instead of regular readers returning via their bookmarks and RSS feeds.
So, I think it's time to freshen things up by issuing an open call to potential contributors and adding some fresh blood into the mix. If you've been randomly writing about comics in your personal blog, or on whatever message boards you might frequent, and want another forum for your musings, drop me a line (glecharles @ gmail dot com) with links to some sample writing and we'll talk. All genres are cool, as are very specific interests. Check out the FAQ for more information, some of which needs to be updated.
Something to keep in mind: I've been toying recently with the idea of a print version of CBC, possibly renamed, along the lines of Comic Shop News, but focused on indies. If that tickles your fancy, definitely contact me.
Support Independent Comics!
Independent comics (and manga) being released THURSDAY, 7/7/05, courtesy of ComicList. Not all of these titles will actually arrive in all stores. If your LCBS offers a pre-ordering service, be sure to take advantage of it.
Recommendations, sometimes blind, in BOLD. Which ones are YOU reading?
ACTIVE IMAGES
Hip Flask Ladronn Sketchbook #2 Elephantmen (AA), $10.00
Hip Flask Ladronn Sketchbook (AA), $10.00
ADHOUSE BOOKS
Bumperboy Loses His Marbles GN, $7.95
A FINE LINE
Permanent Party SC, $13.99
ALIAS ENTERPRISES LLC
10th Muse Odyssey GN, $9.99
10th Muse Vol 2 #3, $2.99
David Shepherds Song #1 (Of 3), $2.99
Deal With The Devil #3 (Of 5), $2.99
Judo Girl #3 (Of 4), $2.99
ALTERNATIVE COMICS
Coexisting One Shot, $2.99
AMAZE INK (SLAVE LABOR GRAPHICS)
Dead Eyes Open #1, $2.95
AMBITION STUDIOS
Swampfox Birth Of A Legend GN, $14.95
ANTARCTIC PRESS
A Few Dollars More Oz The Manga #2, AR
Luftwaffe 1946 Sourcebook Vol 1 TPB, $5.95
APCOMICS
Lexian Chronicles Full Circle #2, $3.50
APE ENTERTAINMENT
Atomic Age Treasury Of Pulp Action Vol 1 TPB (AA), $12.95
APPROBATION COMICS
Myriad #3 (Of 6), $2.99
ARCHIE COMIC PUBLICATIONS
Betty & Veronica #210, $2.25
Jughead And Friends Digest #3, $2.39
Pals N Gals Double Digest #95, $3.59
ASPEN MLT INC
Fathom #2, $2.99
BROADSWORD COMICS
School Bites Vol 1 GN Dlx Ed (AA), $19.99
Tarot Witch Of The Black Rose Vol 3 Px Ltd Ed TPB, $34.99
CAHABA PRODUCTIONS INC
Archangels The Fall #1, $4.50
CHRONIC FATIGUE
Wilderemere #1 (Cold Cut Distribution), $3.95
CLAYPOOL COMICS
Elvira #146, $2.50
CRUSADE ENTERTAINMENT
Shi Ju Nen #3 Signed Graphite Ed, $19.99
DARK HORSE COMICS
Freaks Of The Heartland TPB, $17.95
Star Wars Clone Wars Vol 5 The Best Blades TPB (AA), $17.95
Star Wars Crimson Empire TPB (AA), $17.95
Star Wars Empire #32, $2.99
Usagi Yojimbo #85, $2.99
DEVILS DUE PUBLISHING
Army Of Darkness Shop Til You Drop Dead #4, $2.99
Army Of Darkness Shop Til You Drop Dead Glow #3, AR
DIGITAL MANGA DISTRIBUTION
Desire Vol 1 GN (AA), $12.95
EIGOMANGA
Rumble Pak #4 (resolicited), $4.95
Sakura Pakk Vol 1 TPB, $9.99
FANTAGRAPHICS BOOKS
Cinema Panopticum HC, $18.95
GIRL TWIRL COMICS
Janes World #20, $4.95
HEAVY METAL MAGAZINE
Heavy Metal Summer 2005, $5.99
HK COMICS LTD
Crouching Tiger Hidden Dragon Vol 11 GN, $13.95
IDW PUBLISHING
Angel The Curse #1 Bradstreet Signed Ed, $19.99
Legend Of Grimjack Vol 2 HC, $39.99
ILLUSTRATION STUDIO
Masters Of Fantasy Just Bettie Page S/N 500 Ed, $9.95
IMAGE COMICS
Amazing Joy Buzzards Vol 1 TPB, $11.95
Battle Pope Color #1, $2.99
Bonerest #1, $2.95
Darkness #21, $2.99
Hunter Killer #3, $2.99
Strange Girl #2, $2.95
Wildguard Fools Gold #1 (Of 2), $3.50
IMPERIUM COMICS
Trailer Park Terror Color Special Nelson Cvr #3, $3.99
Trailer Park Terror Color Special Tucci Cvr #3, $3.99
LIGHTSPEED PRESS
Finder #37, $2.95
MUSEUM OF COMIC AND CARTOON ART
Mocca Will Eisner A Retrospective, $24.95
MVCREATIONS
Masters Of The Universe Vol 3 #1 Quadruple Gatefold Cvr, $9.95
Rob Zombie Spook Show Intl #9 Horrorfind Ed, $9.95
Rob Zombie Spook Show Intl #9 Horrorfind Signed Ed, $19.95
Rob Zombie Spook Show Intl #9 SDCC Ed, $9.95
Rob Zombie Spook Show Intl #9 SDCC Signed Ed, $19.95
NAKED PRODUCTIONS INC
Wannabe #1, $2.95
NBM
Boneyard Vol 1 Color Ed TPB, $10.95
NEKO PRESS
Wildflower Tribal Screams Dark One Cvr TPB, $12.99
Wildflower Tribal Screams Martinez Cvr TPB, $12.99
NEW ENGLAND COMICS
WW2 Rommel #1, $3.95
PHENOMENON COMICS
Blackpool #1, $2.95
PURE IMAGINATION PUBLISHING
Steve Ditko Reader Vol 3 TPB, $25.00
RADIO COMIX
Furrlough #148, $3.50
THE NORM.COM
The Norm #9, $4.95
TOKYOPOP
Sgt Frog Vol 9 GN (Of 10), $9.99
VIZ LLC
All New Tenchi Muyo Vol 6 TPB, $8.95
Bastard Vol 8 TPB, $9.99
Case Closed Vol 6 GN, $9.95
Doubt Vol 3 GN, $9.99
Dr Slump Vol 2 TPB, $7.99
Full Moon Vol 1 TPB, $8.99
Fullmetal Alchemist Vol 2 TPB, $9.99
Fushigi Yugi Genbu Kaiden Vol 1 TPB, $8.99
Fushigi Yugi Vol 15 GN, $9.95
Hot Gimmick Vol 9 TPB, $9.99
Hunter X Hunter Vol 3 TPB, $7.99
Inu Yasha Vol 22 TPB, $8.95
Is Vol 2 GN, $7.99
Knights Of The Zodiac Vol 10 TPB, $7.95
One Piece Vol 7 GN, $7.95
Ouran Hight School Host Club Vol 1 TPB, $8.99
Please Save My Earth Vol 11 TPB, $9.99
Prince Of Tennis Vol 8 GN, $7.95
Project Arms Vol 9 TPB, $9.99
Red River Vol 7 GN, $9.95
Rurouni Kenshin Vol 16 TPB, $7.95
Shonen Jump Aug 05 #32, $4.99
Tokyo Boys & Girls Vol 1 TPB, $8.99
Tough Vol 3 GN, $9.99
Ultimate Muscle Vol 7 GN, $7.95
Ultra Maniac Vol 1 TPB, $8.99
Video Girl Ai Vol 12 TPB, $9.99
Whistle Vol 6 TPB, $7.99
Yu GI Oh Duelist Vol 6 TPB, $7.95
Forgotten Realms: Dark Elf Trilogy - Homeland #1
An amazing addition to the four-color fantasy genre that has little going for it these days beyond Conan and Mu. As a D&D fan, it's the next best thing to playing the game. PLUS, interview with writer Andrew Dabb.
Blacklight #1
What would you do if you had super-powers? Scott Wherle offers a pair of intriguing polar opposites as an answer - plus a new Latina heroine! - while delivering an accessible and entertaining story.
Elk's Run #2
A compelling combination of Shirley Jackson's "The Lottery" and Stephen King's "The Body," with a healthy dose of M. Night Shyamalan's The Village, Elk's Run is the sleeper hit of the year.
Genie #1
Whatever appeal Genie might have, and there definitely is a little something here, it is, unfortunately, in spite of its creative team, not because of them. (Includes a brief review of Hell, Michigan.)
Nat Turner #1
There's rarely been a black-and-white newsprint comic book worth a $3 cover price, but Nat Turner is worth that and then some. A comic book so amazingly good it left a lump in my throat and a bit of rage in my heart.
Be sure to check out all of this week's reviews from Buzzscope's crack staff of reviewers - some of the best out there, if I may say so myself. Plus, Greg Burgas' latest installment of Comics You Should Own: Avengers Annual #10. While you're there, sign up and leave some feedback in the forum. It's one of the more level-headed boards out there and while the usual suspects get the most attention, there's plenty of room to talk about good comics, too.
Peace!
