[...] case you missed it alert! Richard Caldwell has provided his newest column The Lottery Party: Past of Future Days. We’ve also got the latest from Nicholas P. Myers, The Tree House:The Zen of Comics or Why I [...]
IceSamurai on
September 30th, 2008 4:56 am
Wow and i thought i was crazy, crazy because i do the same thing. Although reading this you and I have very little differences as of “how to get new ideas”. I’v not done any comics/mangas yet but i have started many ideas with this format. All in all thanks for showing me that the way I have been doing it is not wrong. Because i was looking for a new way.
Thanks IceSamurai. It’s good to know that there’s other crazy people out there.
Richard! on
October 6th, 2008 12:01 am
The Legion news is horrible! I was really excited about seeing what writer Jim Shooter had planned, considering he started in comics, like, 40 years ago designing covers for the book.
Bring it back, Didio!
I’ve always enjoyed Jim Shooters work. I just could never get into the Legion books regardless of who was writing them. It’s a DC thing I guess, having grown up on Marvel titles I’ve always found it difficult to get into DC Comics, with the exception being Batman and Superman, and the times I’ve enjoyed those two titles are pretty far and between.
Richard! on
October 8th, 2008 7:54 pm
I wrote to former X-scribe Scott Lobdell for his take. He responded:
“I fear your DAYS article mixes apples and oranges however.
DAYS never had anything to do with the X-Traitor storyline, which was not introduced until BISHOP arrived some ten years later…
… and the BISHOP/XSE storyline just barely barely barely accomodates the DAAY OF FUTURE PAST storyline. (Though one would argue that the events of DAYS OF FUTURE PAST’s travel into our present PREVENTED the DAYS OF FUTURE PAST from happening.. which then allowed for the XSE.)
And while the TRAITOR storyline was buried at for a number of years, Mark Waid addressed it in a very tortured display of storytelling and ‘revealed’ that — impossibly enough – it was Bishop himself who was the traitor.
Does this help?”
Thank you, Scott.
Still- I was familiar with the Waid story, though the XSE bit does put a different light on my whim. Still, Charlie’s being the number one psyche means that no other psyches could ever really gage his limits. I am probably wrong though.
Years of dwelling on stories written over weeks or less can lead one to oversee semantics.
[...] In case you missed it alert! Richard Caldwell has provided his newest column The Lottery Party: Past of Future Days. We’ve also got the latest from Nicholas P. Myers, The Tree House:The Zen of Comics or Why I Do the Things I Do. [...]
[...] going to pimp my own site for a bit…I am allowed to do that you know! Awesome interview with Sam Henderson…Don’t know who Sam Henderson is? Then read the interview conducted by Richard Caldwell. [...]
[...] Since I mentioned Richard Caldwell, now would be a great time to tell you to check out his latest column. Check out his latest column! There, I told [...]
[...] original here: Comic Book Review: ‘The Chair’ Graphic Novel This entry was written by admin, posted on October 19, 2008 at 11:36 pm, filed under graphic [...]
While I am sadly one of those schmucks that could never fully appreciate Legion, I am crestfallen to see a Jim shooter project fail. I will forever be grateful to Jim for bringing the Valiant universe to life.
Legion’s biggest problem was the fact it was released during all of the Crisis hullabaloo. Dido put all of his eggs into one basket, most likely as a Hail Mary against Secret Invasion.
Good, bad or indifferent the simple reality is that no new title had a real chance during all of the shake up.
[...] can’t seem to get enough Incredible Hulk news lately and with the recent release of the DVD there has been quite a bit of chatter regarding everyones favorite green goliath. Earlier in the [...]
Richard! on
October 30th, 2008 4:35 pm
Jaymes brings up some great points. A comic can be the grooviest thing sense trigonometry, but if the publisher fails to perform its own designated function, then who would know?
One thing I noticed about reading pdf’s of comics is how easy it is to lose page count. It becomes hard to gage just how quickly/slowly the pacing of the story progresses.
All in all, Jaymes is clearly a hack and needs to hang up his pencil.
[...] to pimp our own. Jaymes Reed wrote not one, but two pretty awesome columns this week. Digital-CAPtionS – Mayhem #1-3 Digital-CAPtionS – Kill the [...]
Rich,
Damn fine points. I can sympathize with those that love “good” manga, even though I can’t empathize because personally I hate it.
I made that well known in my review of the current Runaways over on Ain’t It Cool News.
I still precariously place each title in a polybag with board and then update my database. This is more for a historical archive than necessarily the value I will one day get from them. Hey, I love comics, I can’t treat them like trash.
Yes, Liefield’s time has coem and gone. I hope he enjoyed the ride.
Rob (Optimous Douche)
On CyberComics there are some real gems and some real trash. One overarching thing that must be rectified though foor teh Web comcis to ever ghave a true life is the reading interface. PDFs ain’t the way to go. Flash is porbably best like they do on Zuda.
My comics, like my books, I treasure for the windows they have given me over the years. I respect them in a manner, but I do not worship them. Material possessions are material possessions.
I am hopeful for Zuda, but considering DiDio’s taste for bananas I am not holding my breath.
And as Liefeld has managed to screw up every deadline in the past 15 or so years, now he finds validity by doing christian comics. God bless him, because nobody else will.
[...] to see a bigger variety of comics available. In a distantly related development, Richard Caldwell bemoans anyone creating comics for the web. He thinks it’s a waste of time and much prefers an actual comic book – look for the [...]
Richard? on
November 15th, 2008 9:05 pm
s.u.p.e.r. c.o.o.l.
Richard? on
November 16th, 2008 6:24 pm
I have heard stories of Art Adams being one of the nicest guys in the industry. G4 should broadcast a pay per view of the hanging, with proceeds going to the CBLDF.
And re:the Spirit- like with the Watchmen, as different as it may end up being from the source material, if it compels a few thousand readers into tracking down the comics, then mission accomplished. I think it is weird though, how Miller is completely shoving Eisner through his own personal filter. Still, I suspect this will be something better than Spiceworld.
and that 7-year old…wowzers and a half. li’l bastard.
[...] Didio must have read last weeks edition of The Sunday Stroll where I mentioned something in regards to the lack of marketing that takes place over at DC because [...]
[...] out to this new comic book review site, http://www.comicreviewers.com, that myself(on a limited basis) and The Lottery Party’s Richard Caldwell will be contributing to. The site is pretty new and doesn’t offer much [...]
Excellent interview, Hearing that S.STEVEN STRUBLE’S work has found it’s way to the notice of JIM VALENTINO’S Shodowline is a great piece of inspiration to all of us independant creator’s that we too my reach a higher profile level with our creations and in doing so reach out to a wide target audience who will enjoy our work, all the best to him for the future.
[...] found another comic review site (via Comic News) that’s been publishing since mid October, Webcomic Overlook has a review of Sarah Zero and a [...]
Well Mr. Reed,
You seem to have a lot to say about lettering. Have you extended an offer to Mr. Guinn to help him with his lettering? You have “been there before” so you “understand” what it’s like. Help him. Your review was god but it comes off as pompous and self-centered. Was the comic about you and your experience as a letterer? Help don’t hinder!
Mr. Guinn did not send me a way to contact him by email, so I couldn’t very well extend him anything. As for helping him, I’m not a teacher. But if he or anyone else has a question regarding lettering, I will gladly assist as much as I possibly can in giving an answer. I posted two links to places where tutorials are readily available, so I still don’t get where I’m not helping. My main complaints stand, though. Besides, I thought I WAS helping by reviewing the book and bringing attention to it? I wasn’t picking on Mr. Guinn or trying to hinder his letterer… he sent the books to ME for an honest review, and I did the best I could with it based on what I felt at the time I wrote. I talk a lot about the letters because I know a good bit about lettering. Not to say I’m the best there ever was, but I do recognize when I’m NOT seeing it.
dang, too bad they didn’t bring back Thomas Jane to be Frank Castle again
richard! on
December 8th, 2008 4:41 am
Hawkeye and Mockingbird were a cooler version of Green Arrow and Black Canary to my preteen worldview back when. I am geek enough to know that the panel is from Solo-Avengers #1, and is early work by Jim Lee!
Resurrections of these two characters in particular are a big reason for my willingness to give Marvel a second glance again.
My original post must have been lost during the server switch. Not sure how or why. This looks like a condensed version of what I originally wrote. Hmmmmm…I hate when that happens.
We must now add as well Majel Roddenberry, who has been reunited at last with husband Gene.
Majel was an actress and producer who was much beloved by sci-fi fans the world over.
Great interview!
I’m very interested in reading more anecdotes about creators getting their start in the 80’s and 90’s and where they are now. It seems a lot of pros have left the industry but have come back to it for “love of the game”.
I think this is probably the most insisive review I have read regarding the state of DC & Marvel — BRAVO!!
Adrian on
January 14th, 2009 8:38 pm
And your argument basically boils down to “I don’t like these writers! I would do it entirely different!” which, in all honesty, isn’t even an argument but merely a fanboy bitching about how his ideas for the direction of the companies are so much better.
You don’t even hit on the state of these companies, and it’s obvious you don’t even base your “arguement” on facts. It’s all conjecture, making this a complete waste of my time.
[...] This article originally appeared on January 15, 2009 on Comic News. To view its original publication, please visit Comic News by clicking on the following link: http://comicnews.info/?p=3161 [...]
This blog is hilarious and so true. I love and agree with the paragraph about web comics. People who solely create digital comics are those who can’t use the internet properly to promote a real print.
Sagarnaga Cozman is una masa! He is really great! He is only second when compared to Juan Bobillo (who is the best artist since DaVinci).
Really looking-forward to The Spark!
Hi a few years back you interviewed us about Spiralmind. Well we finally completed Issue #1 “Rabbi’s Lament” You can check it out by going to our myspace. We also did an interview in El Paso Magazine which can be also googled. Hey thanks so much for your support back when we had nothing.
As long as they keep it as real I’m cool with as many Batman films that Warners wanna through at us.
What I’d love to see is a Dark Knight Returns film. I’m sure Nolan would probably call it quites after a third film so maybe bring in Zach Snyder to direct a few.
Philip J Eaves on
February 6th, 2009 9:53 pm
Just realized it is PUGH and not FUGH. Sorry, everyone.
Joshua N. Pierce on
February 6th, 2009 11:03 pm
Does anyone have any comics that they want me to include in my columns? I am open to giving anything a try.
I missed that PUGH, FUGH, looks too much alike…I need to gets me some glasses.
Looks like Radical missed this too since they put a snippet of the review up on their board.
Thank you for the wonderful review, Richard! The time and attention you gave to reading my stories is appreciated!
Joshua N. Pierce on
February 8th, 2009 7:03 pm
Well give me some specific names of titles and I will order them and put them in the article. I prefer trades or graphic novels at this point to be the focal point of the article. Floppies will also be in the weekly article but as the secondary book. So let me know what you want checked out.
Marvel’s entire line will be at the 3.99 level before the year is through. duh. There are plenty of ways to cut their costs, but their board is only in this game for the money that fans are indeed dumb enough to blow. Yes, the fans do share the blame. Even with the higher pricing, their books will still rate number one sellers, because people are generally apathetic and retarded little zombie robot monkeys.
Do a little dance, buy a little book, make Marvel rich..make Marvel rich.
No, it is the fault of the fan. $3.99 books continue to sell out and Marvel knows this so why not jump at the chance to make some bucks. Hell, if Marvel didn’t see this as an opportunity then the powers that be should be looking for employment elsewhere.
Of course, I say this without even knowing what their overall expenses are when publishing comics. Hell, for all we know they may only be making minimal profit from this price increase.
Either way, I cannot spend $3.99 on a comic. You have to draw the line somewhere.
I like the output, just not the corporation behind it.
Yes, I am thrilled at what the Bendis-beast has breathed into the Avengers line. I think their mixes of indie writers with foreign artists are making for some of their best product ever.
Does it justify the modern pricing?
Way back, under Jim Shooter’s reign, when Marvel was first exploring the direct market venue, they actually did a number of polls to see what fans thought. Considering the online presence maintained by numerous Marvel staffers, it would be even easier today to accomplish the same effort.
If they really wanted to satisfy and keep costs low, cut the reprint books. If it’s worth re-packaging, then save it for the trade audience. There is a multitude of paper grades to choose from, many of which are perfectly adequate and cheaper still. Minimalize superstar fees. And Marketing! There are far smaller companies who can successfully market their product without the costly inundation of current practices.
I have spent no money on a Marvel book in awhile, and I see no point in starting now. Not without a fourth job.
Will my actions make a difference? Nope, but at least I can be guilt free.
Let the execs pay for their hookers and blow some other way. I’d rather support folks who I can identify with.
i’ve been reading gingerdead for almost two years. calan comes up with great ideas and haikus in a thoughtful, amusing and completely original way. great choice for a column, richard!
Great interview. Warlord was one of the few Dc comics i had random issues of in my collection as a kid. Green Arrow : Long Bow Hunters though, i read and re-read over and over. Really good interview.
7ruth on
February 12th, 2009 11:44 pm
The most retarded thing I have ever heard. Jesus, you really think that they’re dumb enough to retire the Joker from film and the television because of one man’s overrated performance in a pretty good film. Retire a whole character?
You’ve got to be joking. You have to be joking. Or on crack. If they do this, I will shun DC for even allowing it, then kill the fans for making them do it. Morons… Just moronic.
Not retiring forever, obviously. There are plenty of other yet-unused villains from the Bat-mythos they could bring to film.
Comics, of course, should continue regardless. This is about honoring the Art of Ledger’s performance. By the time the Joker’s turn cycles back into play, we will likely be seeing the next version of a film franchise at hand anyhow. This Joker however, out of respect, should remain untouchable.
honestly they cant retire the joker from the movies hes always been there to mess with batman and give him hell sure heath ledger did an amazing job, but im sorry if they dont put the joker in the next batmans no one will want to watch them hes the ultimate villain for batman, without him batman would have had no success as a comic book or movie, all i say is see if you can find someone that can live up to the hype
That’s okay, though. “Dark Knight” was good enough to keep us happy until then.
mneiai on
February 13th, 2009 5:37 pm
As someone with a subscription to that Digital Comics thing I can honestly say: If that’s the future of comics, I’m going to stop reading comics. They need to look at how people who download torrents and the like look at comic books on the computer, see what people actually like about those formats.
In respect to any future actor trying to do the Joker in a Batman movie: You will always be compared to H Ledger and you will go down in flames. Sorry but it is a fact. No one could catch the villains madness, the characters whole spectrum like it was done in the dark knight. So for my ten cents: It can not be done better.
/ Tommy “Nusse 2″
I’m sure I’m in the minority but I don’t think I liked this story. Maybe I’ll go back and read it again since it has been awhile since I last read it. Second time arounds usually change my opinion of things.
Correction on the last comment. I mean Emily Blunt.
Andrew Cleveland on
February 14th, 2009 11:18 pm
Web comics are pointless. You make a great point about them not capitalizing on the comic book movies hype that has been going on for the past 8 years or more. You also make a good point about them not advertising comic books via other ways besides in other comics, pretty funny if you think about it. They could really be doing things with kids and schools and tv, etc. I see what your saying 100%.
Thanks Andrew, i know there is a huge pro printed comic book audience out there, obviously. Over at whitechapel, as far as digital comics are concerned i definitely hit on some points like the apples to oranges comparison that is always made to the music industry. The only date that is comparable, i should have covered here in the column.
What i meant to say above, i covered the data that would be relevant in that comparison, which is that 95% of the music downloaded is through illegal file sharing or other non legal means.
People should be reading Radical’s books, plain and simple. Every book that I have read from this publisher has been top notch. I don’t know what else you could ask for from a comic book company.
Things used to be different. Anyone else remember the Stan Lee-voiced teevee commercials for the original G.I.Joe comics?
As far as marketing and promotions go, I think a big cause right now is the fact that the larger publishers are bringing in persons with minimal, if any, background in comics. From Avi Arad to Bill Jemas, they had legitimate elsewhere, with other businesses, but come on-
had Dan Dildio ever honestly even READ a comic book before he was brought into the Dc fold?
With the inappropiate backgrounds, they just do not understand the medium enough to be able to move it properly. Hardcore fans are confounded, retailers are left hanging.
I just walked into Collector’s Corner to add a couple of REAL comics to my pull list, not have a retailer upload a digital version of my titles onto a F**kin thumb drive! Don’t get me wrong, I have read quite a few digitals before. Only because I was curious about a few books and didn’t feel like wasting my money on something I might not like. To me digitals are strickly a “GATEWAY” into the world of REAL comics!
As far as Ellis’ Freakangels, it’s a great concept that I really like. Life just gets in the way, as well my impatience getting the better of me. I want to read a mini series or a whole story arch, not 8-10 panels.
Quesada = Douche
Bendis = Douche
Ellis = Internet Jesus
Real Comics = Priceless
Just read the stuff on Whitechapel, it was entertaining as hell with Warren,Brian, and Paul. Kinda cool Ellis commented on my opinion too.
The Adept Jedi on
February 15th, 2009 5:03 am
Like we talked about tonight @ the “Corner”, Randy- comics, inherently, create art to tell a story.
In my personal opinion, a digital expression of that medium will never equate the tactile experience of holding, reading, and (finally) owning a comic book. There is a reason why “collectors” still keep our books in bags, boards, and boxes even knowing that these libraries won’t bring the wealth people thought the would back in the early nineties. We keep it for the paper- literally, because we can hold a book and have art in our hands from the cover to the last page (not counting the advertisement).
I appreciate that some (the entire Marvel hierarchy apparently) think that we are all moving into an unavoidable digital age, but I believe the “comic” stands as an entertainment medium partly defined by its printed nature. Take away the paper, and you take away what has makes a comic book- well, a comic book.
Batwoman as a lesbian equates in my mind as lazy writing. Honestly, in this day and age, should this really be an issue? Same with a character’s voting record- why the hell sum up an individual by a singular trait? Unless as you say, fans can expect an all-out girl on girl action extravaganza via the reworked Birds of Prey, then why bother? (take THAT, Mary Marvel!)
Like the awesome line from Batman Begins-
“It’s not who you are, but what you DO that matters.”
Is that how that line from Batman goes? All this time I thought the line read like this, “It’s not who you are, but WHO you DO that matters.” Now I feel like such an ass. Thanks for setting me straight.
A lot of it is controversy for controversy’s sake. Some of it is Political correctness and diversity being enforced through their line. If it sells well or gets coverage, its a good thing. Well diversity is always a good thing, in my summation, political correctness, never for me. I do wonder how much of this is pushed through editorially, i think DC should focus on better quality books over quantity, which could set them apart from marvel and gain them more readers.
[...] few days ago we reported that Eliza Dushku threw her hat in the ring, expressing interest in the role. Eliza went as far as asking fans to start a campaign calling for [...]
Mike on
February 15th, 2009 9:37 pm
Marvel is doing one thing right with digital comics: they give you the seven page teaser. A teaser is meant to get you interested in a book so that you want to pick it up. That’s why when you go to the movies you have to sit through twenty minutes of previews. Give us teasers of new and future releases, build our hype, and you increase revenue.
That being said, I generally do not read the free online comics, for much the same reason that the other posters said: It’s a pain in the rear. Even with a good sized screen, it’s not the same, and having to scroll the page, click for the next page, etc. is distracting. And god forbid you missed something and want to flip back a couple of pages for clarification. No thanks, give me paper.
Bottom line for me is, if they think that digital comics are genuinely the “way of the future”, then fine. Do your homework and make a good product. But if you are trying to save a few bucks or increase profit, think again.
Slight correction: The first person on the left if Kevin Colden (Fishtown GN, I Rule the Night on Zuda). Johnny Zito, Tony Trov and Sacha Borosich from Black Cherry Bombshells were all there, just a leetle bit further to the left of Kevin. I was there, too, but got to the panel late and didn’t want to be standing behind Ron and the podium (not that I had anything constructive to add to the proceedings, just saying, is all.)
Bill on
February 16th, 2009 9:48 pm
I have heard of many of the so called solutions, to growing an audience in the digital marketplace. Free content is king online, so anyone making a living in comic books from writers to artists and cover artists, should really evaluate, the many pros and cons of of pushing digital comics as the next evolution of the industry.There simply are more disadvantages to comic books in the digital realm than in print, there are supposedly viable ways to collect readers money from viewing comics online but no one has figured out how to do that in other entertainment ventures online, music and such. Most people only like it because it is free, where a parent or even younger kids will still want to hold a book in their hands instead of yet another piece of technology that removes reader from the complete experience and makes it wholly disposable. kids loved Pokemon cards, Yugi-oh, and other trends that were not on a computer and they are still around. the issue is comic book publisher’s either don’t really try to reach kids, or don’t care. If your giving a kid an option on his hand held device to ask his parent to pay 99 cents for a comic issue read one time or buy him another $50.00 game he will play for weeks or hours, what will he choose 9 times out of 10/ The columnist hit the nail on the head. I work in the IT field, and i prefer paper. Paper is so important to the art of comic books and how they are made, from pencil on art board to paper through the printers, i think it will be more of a challenge and a step in the wrong direction for Publisher’s to assume they will increase sales by trying to force this on fans.
Phil Eaves on
February 17th, 2009 2:57 am
I gave this one a read myself. Really a great sci-fi story, and the art is really wonderful – not in the superhero comic style at all.
Patrick on
February 17th, 2009 4:43 pm
Hey Randy,
Excellent article. I have to agree that digital comics seems like a bad idea and the money put towards it could be spent elsewhere. The points about too many books (20+ x-books, and the ever increasing Avengers titles) was valid as well. I also agree with the fact that the backstory for a lot of comics is a little unecessary. When I first got into comics I had to spend a lot of time on Wikipedia just to understand what the hell was going on. Great article.
I agree.
I never got the axiom “every man is an island”, as I think we are all meant to learn from each other.
How stale would the world be, without comparing notes so as to better it? And as big as the comics and entertainment industries are, how much more difficult would it be to gain entry, without learning from the mistakes of others?’
Granted, some of my friends are stupider than me, but then of course others are so talented, I hope to the Living Tribunal they are never desperate enough to take my ideas with a grain of salt.
Great first effort, Belkis!
[...] February 18, 2009 in Blogs! | Tags: “Missing the Boat”, ComicNews.info, Image Comics, interview, Shadowline Comics, The Roberts! …right here! [...]
David Hayes on
February 18th, 2009 10:04 am
You think people are ripping comics now (scanning the in and sharing them) just imagine how easy it will be when they are already in that’s format. Are there writers and artist that actually think this is a good idea? they better think again.
[...] Speaking of the Shady family, Justin, along with Erik Rose and Dwellephant, are interviewed at the Fourth Wall, talking about The Roberts and Missing the Boat. Also, Erik makes an appearance on the latest podcast at Around Comics. I’m a regular listener of Around Comics, and the last time Erik was interviewed did not go well, largely because the audio went wonky, and the recording was lost. Oh, and Justin has one of those old-fashioned interviews where you have to read at Comic News.info. [...]
[...] now leaves the door open for Scarlett Johansson to fill the void. A few weeks back it was reported that Johansson was is in talks to replace Blunt. Johansson met [...]
Awesome, i agree…making memories in real life stores that last a lifetime will always trump chat room exchanges and forum posts. Most of my customers know each other and a lot of us do things outside of the store, sports leagues, wing nights, social events. You can’t put a price on that.
There use to be so many comic book stores when I was a kid. I really wasn’t into them but my brother was and therefore I did have some knowledge on what was going on. Now, there are a few shops still open at my hometown but not as many. I think comic book stores may not survive as a lot of comic creators are making the transition to webcomics. I don’t necessarily agree with this. Graphic novels and comic series belong in print form and because there is a lack of physical books, shops are disappearing.
Today I stepped foot inside of a comic shop for the first time in a very long time. It was great, the simple smell of the comic shop brought back memories. I felt like a kid in a candy store. Long boxes lined up every where. I easily wasted, wrong choice of words, I easily spent an hour and a half just sifting through the back issues. I could have spent all day in that shop and thought nothing of it. The shop owner was very polite and we talked comics, of course, it was great. She was telling me how in the late 90’s there were about 8 shops located in the area, she is the only one left. I really miss having a local shop to call my own.
I don’t think this is a matter of old timers being resistant to change. Stores- even chains, are still moving more product than any online service.
The larger publishers and DCD seem insistant on pursuing/pushing specific methods, specific brands, and are increasingly caught up in the wishful thinking that a life can be lived via the computer- even if the by far greater half of readers are denied access to the club by the joys of blue-collar living.
In a broader sense, there is the ongoing argument as to whether or not technology itself is dehumanizing us. Don’t get me wrong, I know what medium is carrying this article. I still believe that the more visceral you can take from the experience, the better. Ignoring the power that the direct market still wields is absurd. We live in a time now where anything more than ten minutes old is considered archaic. Just because something has some age to it, tried and true even, does not make it obsolete. Techno-fetishism is only an unhealthy distraction. It will never be a legit challenger to the throne. It can have a place, but betting all of your money on a system with more variables than what we have the more experience with is NOT thinking ahead. It is gambling. Even more absurd, as the economic crisis will not be resolved in the years to come.
As such, it would be safer for the industry, as well as more cost efficient, to keep healthy what we already have.
I like rambling.
Jay on
February 28th, 2009 11:44 pm
Are U NUTZ??? The last and final Movie is still to come.
The Origin of the Joker a.k.a. “The Man Who Laughs”.
In the Origin of the “The Man Who Laughs,” the joker is a young lad and a pathetic victim instead
of his usual role as a villain. In this moving melodrama he had a dual role, starring as both
Gwynplaine (The Man Who Laughs), and also as Lord Clancharlie, Gwynplaine’s father, a Scottish
nobleman who has rebelled against King James II in 17th-century Britain. As Lord Clancharlie is
being placed for execution in the notorious “Iron Maiden,” he asks what will be done with his son,
Gwynplaine. King James’ cruel jester pulls the boys mouth apart in a grimace, and the king
understands that the young boy with a beaming, angelic smile will be given to a notorious band of
nomads, the Comprachicos.
The Comprachicos purposely disfigure the young boy by carving the corners of his mouth into a
fixed, hideous grin. As if what they have done turns into a bad Omen, the Comprachicos are exiled
from England, abandoning Gwynplaine in the English countryside during a severe snowstorm burning
his facial expression into a permanent one.
Plodding through the storm, the youngster comes across a baby girl in the arms of her frozen and
lifeless mother. Although the boy doesn’t have any reason to perpetuate acts of kindness due to
his practically shattered spirit, his heart goes out to this young child, and he rescues her. As
he plods through the howling storm with the baby in tow, they are saved by a small traveling
troupe of actors who are led by kindly philosopher, Ursus. Ursus is horrified when he sees
Gwynplaine’s disfigured face, and he realizes that the baby girl, Dea, is blind.
They are both adopted by the troupe, and years later Dea, has grown into a beautiful blind girl.
A romance of the heart, not of the eyes, develops between Gwyplaine and Dea. Gwynplaine, who has
now become a famous performing clown, is finally happy, and fate steps in when Gwynplaine discovers
he is heir to a peerage and is summoned back to London.
It is there that his life will take a fateful turn when the jester who had persuaded the king to
disfigure Gwynplaine and the queen, see an opportunity to continue their mind-twisted torture.
Nixing any one genre of comics will not save the industry, especially regarding the super heroes, which consistently make up the majority of sales.
Not everybody chooses to beat their supervillain while looking at pictures of guys in tights, but more power to them. If anything it is wonderful to meet someone else who must think that John Byrne is a complete hack.
As far as what to fill the void with, I myself am looking forward to Micah Gunnell’s new book from Aspen, which will be the first Aspen book I ever bought. Also, the new Doom Patrol, from Keith Giffen and Matthew Clark, and the new Warlord series from Mike Grell. The only Marvel that interests me in the slightest is Captain Britain, but they do not need my money. I promise each of these titles will be breakout hits in the next year.
Thanks for the suggestions. I forgot about the Gunnell book, that one is certainly worth checking out. The only Marvel books left in my pull are Captain America and Uncanny X-Men. I will admit that the first issue of Dark Avengers was a very good read. Everything else is just scattered about.
steve steiner on
March 1st, 2009 9:42 pm
it must’ve been really close! those six hours or extra waiting were painful!
Realityman on
March 2nd, 2009 1:58 am
idiot kids always want the same thing over and over again and never happy with sequels…
there are actors out there who look like ledger who could take over the role and do it just like him. it wouldn’t be hard to replicate.
that kid from 3rd rock the tv show looks just like him and in a few years will be old enough to be cast as a look alike joker,can he pull off the same performace? maybe not but close enough,his face is exaCT!
he would look the same as heath did. i’m sure with coaching he could be the next joker. looks wize? he’s dead on.
but dont worry geeks! they wont use joker for batman 3,unless we get a quick glimps of him in arkam nuthouse for some odd reason,which i doubt. batman 3 will be a few years into the batman future where catwomen is obviously the next villian since they hinted at this in batman 2,the DK. since it could be the last batman i’m sure they will add in the riddler too and catwomen may end up helping batman in the end…
i still say they bring robin into the mix. if done serious,it could be done right. like some young teen hero who keeps following batman around and by chance saves his ass a few times,even tho batman tells him to beat it kid… it could work.
catwomen and riddler should be next… catwomen for sure.
I enjoyed the Dark Tower novels from King but I could not for the life of me get into the comics. The Stand is one of my all time favorite stories from King but I have been hesitant to check out the comic until now, your review swayed me.
If I don’t like this book I’m holding you accountable Mr. Pierce.
Josh Pierce on
March 2nd, 2009 11:57 pm
Well……..um…………maybe you shouldn’t read it Gary.
J/K (God that is old)
I think you will like it, just pick up a trade if you can find a paper back.
Josh Pierce on
March 3rd, 2009 12:01 am
I am not a big Matt Fraction fan anymore. I think it depends on the title, but his Uncanny has been sub par. Honestly it is a B class book now, unlike brubaker’s short run on the book that was absolutely amazing. I think Fraction is better on a solo book, i.e. Punisher: War Journal, and The Invincible Iron Man.
Uncanny X-Men has been one of the books that I have followed for a long time and I am not sold on Fraction just yet, as far as this title goes. I’m not yet ready to drop the book just yet but it does need to get better and fast.
I’m going to read this one later in the week. I don’t think I can handle heavy dialogue tonight. I’ll come back and share my thoughts with you once I read the book.
Josh Pierce on
March 3rd, 2009 1:19 am
Oh, I still read some Marvel titles. But, I am becoming more and more stingy on what I read from Marvel, I don’t really read DC because the continuity is so convoluted.
You are all crazy, and this ultimate joker website is stupid. Warners is still hoping for chris nolan to continue with the franchise. If he does, its a pretty safe bet no actor will be reprising the role of the joker in the 3rd movie. After the unprecedented success of the dark knight, bet on not seeing a brett ratner type take over and shit on it. so you won’t see another joker in this series. nothing is for sure. someone might pull a nutty and do it. but i doubt it.
hollywood is not full of evil people. some are dumb, most like to turn a profit more than anything else, but with the amount of media surrounding the death of ledger, putting the paint on another dude, who’ll put on at best an imitated performance? that would be crazy. no way a producer or distributer at this level would take that kind of risk on what would be the studio’s tent pole film for that year.
Thank about all the acclaim nickleson got for his portrayal. it took almost 20 years before joker found his way back to the big screen and the man is still alive today.
cartoons, comics and tv series will always have their version of the character, but you won’t see the character on the big screen for at least another 20 years.
I like how OpWound’s blogs are very open about sharing notes on the whole creative and self-publishing process.
They also have a cool interview series going, sort of shining light on creators of like-minded works.
They have fought their share of battles, but they by no means take their aggressions out on others. Any set-up that supports the health and education of all is super keen in my book.
If I had a book.
[...] comic book titles here at our store, Collectors Corner, would make for a lighter topic than the last column I wrote for ComicNews. I thought it would be cool to not only list the top 5 sellers at Collectors [...]
I love these “I’m a Marvel, You’re a DC” videos. This one is by far the best so far.
Joshua N. Pierce on
March 7th, 2009 12:52 am
I am telling you, you will not be disappointed. I read trades 1-7 in a day. It just flows so easily. You can read these trades in about an hour. Well worth it Gary.
I’m glad to see the boys at #5. I can honestly say that if it wasn’t for your recommendation to the book, I probably wouldn’t have picked it up. I thank you for that.
Allow me to possibly upset some people: While I like the WATCHMEN book a great deal, it’s probably my least favorite Alan Moore story, predominantly because I don’t really care too much about superheroes outside of the fact that there are some I love when done well, but I’m not an absolute loyalist.
Moore writes his comics to be comics, not to secretly be movies, like the now-sellout Frank Miller. His mastery of panels is unparalleled, just as Grant Morrison’s mastery of anti-panels is unparalleled. The two writer really show their audiences what can be done with comics, just on opposite ends; and neither writer writes because they were rejected from filmmaking.
I have not seen the WATCHMEN movie yet, but I plan on it (if only to catch a glimpse of Billy Crudup’s blue penis). But I really mean this when I say that Zack Snyder is a hack. I’m not some upset fanboy who has his comics destroyed by someone that doesn’t get it, but as someone who sees his cheap tricks as a few hotkeys in Final Cut Pro and nothing more. Who (with a partially functional brain) really enjoyed 300? There were a few cool scenes, but the movie was boring and the slow motion effects were, cheap, overdone, and the worst forms of monotony. The dude is some worthless Hollywood fop. And from the previews I saw, it looks like this movie is filled with a lot of slow motion and music, so I can guess how it will go.
But I also know that there was a lot of hype around this movie being released, because when Hollywood makes a movie out of a comic (an easy thing to do because they treat comics as story board pre-made, even though they’re usually not) fanboys feel vindicated. “Oh, someone cool likes us now,” is what I sense from a lot of comic fans who feel their enjoyment of comics is shameful or embarrassing.
I won’t bash you for your comments because I tend to agree with much if not all of what you said.
I won’t spoil the movie for you but what you saw in the previews you mentioned is spot on and did make some scenes kind of awkward to look at.
I didn’t think 300 was that bad as far as the overall story goes. I did not like much of the effects though. I can’t say how it compared to the trade as I have yet to read it. The book has been sitting on my shelf since the film came out. One day I’ll get around to reading it.
Well, the 300 book is really short. It’s the first time that a book is *stretched* rather than shortened to save for time. I don’t know, the book was alright. It’s art was cooler than the story. Frank Miller is has strong feelings concerning military issues in the political paradigm. He’s very pro-war, and 300 is more or less his thesis on why war is important (and dare I say good, in his opinion?).
Zack Snyder (or whoever wrote the script) really stretched it out, but all of that political intrigue crap in Sparta was added in, along with a lot of the fight scenes.
I also heard that the ending of the movie was changed from the comic book, which is rather bogus because the bleak ending of the comic was the whole point of Moore’s message.
Again, I am trying not to be a feral fanboy, but rather a concerning intellectual who doesn’t like to see material dumbed down to make wider (and dumber) audiences happy or less sad.
I think this is very foolish. I don’t think The Fantastic Four can be successful as a more mature book. I think it is better suited for children. If it is to become more of a mature read, then it must be done when the rights go back to Marvel.
Great column!
I won’t name names either but I can certainly relate to what you are saying and I’m sure you know what or who I am speaking of in some regards. Of course there have been others, quite a few actually. I will say from running this site, at times I feel like a piece of meat.
StevenSurman on
March 12th, 2009 6:25 am
At NYCC, I sat in on a panel about where a lot of writers went back and forth on the craft of writing…
I think it’s important to write what you know, but it’s more important to write about what you like. I’ve met a lot of people who almost feel obligated to write the next great American novel, but they clearly don’t like what they’re trying to do.
It’s really important to experiment, in both fiction and nonfiction. Take a chance and raise an eyebrow.
Also, forget that nonsense about writing every day. I remember years ago I read a column by Brian Vaughan, and he stressed a lot that it’s important to write every day. While I think its important to always process and churn new ideas, sometimes the muse just isn’t biting in the ass and it won’t come.
Also, your point about communication is really important. While I’ve never had anyone hound me to do an interview or write a review (I wish!), it’s so important to treat sources with respect. If you’re writing a beat, such a comics on this site, you want people you can return to who will help you with a smile.
I do support the idea of writing every day. Of course not every piece will be Shakespearian, but the practice does help to overcome any technical flaws, and the constant experimentation with wordplay can help define the voice. Natural skill alone can rarely make up for lacking technical know-how.
or to mirror my opening line- a writer who does not write is not a writer.
Steven Surman on
March 13th, 2009 3:25 pm
Rest in peace, Michael Turner.
Rick on
March 14th, 2009 2:31 am
In response to Joshua N. Pierce’s review of The Chair:
I just wanted to give you my take on why the lettering varied throughout the story. My reading was that Sullivan is not entirely living in reality, but rather his head. At times I even wondered if he was even in prison at all, or if this was going to be one of those “bad nightmare” stories! Anyways, I took it that the lettering was done in multiple fonts, colors, etc was to show that difference between what was ACTUALLY happening vs. what Sullivan (clearly crazy) THOUGHT was happening. Then I think it changes entirely at the end because the truth of what is really going on is finally revealed, showing the reader again a psychological shift.
But that was just my take! Who knows if I am even right or not!
[...] You can look at my weekly column “Should you be reading this?” for my views on volume one of American Terror. Now, I have not changed my mind on the story, to the [...]
Joshua N. Pierce on
March 14th, 2009 12:41 pm
No, Rick you could definitely be correct. I never say that my take is always RIGHT for everyone, I only say that this is my opinion. I appreciate your comment and I will take it into consideration. Just so you know though, I did really enjoy the read. It was well executed with a great pace, and I don’t think you should ignore the story telling aspect because you didn’t like a few things about the book. Comic Books are Books after all and we should read them for what the story offers.
One of the longest-running series in comics reaches a milestone: 125 issues and still going strong! There’s no better way to mark this occasion than with the start of the biggest Witchblade story arc ever!…
I’ve been wanting to comment on your subject since it went live but am just now getting to it.
In the beginning I used to go the cheap route with advertising, hitting sites that offered low cost advertising. I quickly learned that I was wasting money because although the ads were cheap those sites were not bringing in much traffic which equaled to a very low number of click-throughs to my site.
I then decided to take the money that I was putting into cheap advertising and throw it at a site that charged more to advertise on but received a huge amount of traffic. The payoff was a nice increase in traffic to my site, which I didn’t see when I was advertising on six different low traffic sites.
I really miss walking into a convenience store, supermarket, or drug store and seeing the spinner rack full of comics. Those were the good old days. I don’t understand why publishers can’t go back to doing that. I think it would do good as far as bringing in new readers.
Unfortunately or fortunately however you see things, some of Ditko’s ideas his writing of the Question no doubt influenced Moore’s creation of Rorschach.Not saying i agree 100% with Doherty’s assessment any more than i do the response and breakdown you give of Rorschach’s character.
Watchmen encompasses ambiguity in the whole of the story, sop therefore it’s open to each individual reader’s interpretation to a large degree.
I always sorta viewed Rorschach as the hero, objecivist influences or not. I did feel he thought Ozy was wrong and that you do not murder 1 or 1 million as a means to an end for hi idea of a possible Utopia. Rorschach was not contradictory of many steadfast ideals of objectivism in most cases as when someone like the child killer took away someone’s right to live therefore gave up his own right.
He’ll always be the hero of the piece to me regardless of Moore’s intentions.
this is super interesting. we really should do links for more goldmine finds like this…
Supergrl on
March 27th, 2009 1:04 pm
I want a review of a comic that breaks all the traditional rules of what readers expect from their normal comic diet – that still manages to be decedent, thrilling and intelligent read. I really enjoy your column!
That all has to do with research. When you are advertising on a site, it is important for you to know how many views it gets on a daily basis, how and if they are doing any marketing and are most of their visitors returning visitors or new ones. If returning visitors are lacking, chances are the site isn’t doing a good job keeping them. Bottom line, it doesn’t make sense advertising for cheap when the site only has about 20 visitors.
Joshua N. Pierce on
March 27th, 2009 9:04 pm
I know next week I am doing Mark Millar’s American Jesus, as well as Terry Moore’s Echo. It should be a good column.
I was raised on this great stuff. I raised my son on it, you just cannot beat it for classic cartoon action/adventure. Some of the last of the good times in manly kid’s cartoons.
They sure don’t make them like they used too. Space Ghost was always one of my favorites. I tried to get the kids interested in the old school cartoons but they just weren’t having any of it.
Joseph Copeli on
March 29th, 2009 6:56 am
I like Tony Daniel’s work, but he needs to educate himself on how the internet works. A website, and any files and folders located therein, is public space. If you leave nude photos of yourself on your lawn, do you expect no one to stop and look? Just like with physical items, if you don’t want people seeing your things, it’s your responsibility to make sure they can’t.
Letting the cat out of the bag was completely his fault. He should have placed the image in a password-protected folder or not uploaded it at all.
The way I see it, he’s paying the “stupid tax” now.
I finally got around to reading this issue and really enjoyed it. Like you, it did feel like the same old, same old but it was an interesting same old, same old.
I may be mistaken but I believe Vol. 1 came out on March 25th, titled American Jesus: The Chosen but I don’t see it available for order on Amazon or TFAW. Was it delayed?
Joshua N. Pierce on
March 29th, 2009 7:03 pm
I actually got a copy of mine on Wednesday. If you can’t find a copy and my place still has it I can get you a copy Gary, or Joseph.
When something hits the internet, one must assume it will live forever.
But internet news has struggled for legitimacy for a while now; legitimacy is not given, it is earned.
If CBR is satisfied being a gossip rag, then whatever. But if CBR considers itself a journalist for comics, all news sources must be verified. That’s how *news* works; otherwise, you’re just The Enquirer of comics.
I heard Alex Ross is in talks for providing the covers.
Joseph Copeli on
April 1st, 2009 11:39 pm
Oh my mistake; American Jesus is just a trade paperback of Chosen, which I read several years ago. I wonder why it took so long for them to release the TPB…
Sheldon and Caanan of Supertron and Celadore fame.
**************
My predictions for next month: someone will hit 700 favs, and someone else will accuse said someone of cutting a deal with the devil to win.
Nice RKB, you got it! Yeah, seems every month there’s some kinda surprise.
Supergrl on
April 2nd, 2009 4:37 pm
did you know that his dad wrote the screenplay for the golden girls? crazy right?! Who thought his son would write the killer drama buffy…well, i think it’s funny.
Dude- Stroman is one of those rare artists who just has his absolute own personal style. Nobody draws like him.
He is in the same club as Gene Colan, Norm Breyfogle, Sam Kieth,…
Joseph Copeli on
April 3rd, 2009 6:41 pm
Nice reviews, Joshua. I’m surprised you didn’t like Terry Moore’s art. Black & white art in a comic requires special skill because of how difficult it is for the eye to differentiate between different objects without the help of color. I’m quick to avoid b&w art myself, except for when it’s done so well that it doesn’t distract from the story. The Walking Dead and Echo are two excellent examples of b&w done right.
The next time you go to a comic shop, try flipping through some other b&w books and you’ll see how much of it is a struggle to read. I think you’ll appreciate Echo much more for it.
I haven’t gotten this far in the series yet, but one of the contributors on our site just got around to damnit-walking-dead reviewing volumes 1-4 so I’m checking those out right now. It’s not nearly as good a review as this, it but I thought it was funny that volume one is hitting our site now, while you guys are reviewing number nine.
Grell himself turned me onto comicmix.com. Every story, every chapter on that site, is free to read. No membership or anything like that.
I know the site had a shake-up awhile back, issues with selling adspace and general financing, so it was expected for some time that an arrangement like this would pop up.
While I am not thrilled with IDW’s pricing habits, this still means that some great comics from true professionals will now be meeting a larger audience.
Incidentally, the comicmix comics are edited by the legendary editor Mike Gold. Gold WAS First Comics- one of the funnest companies ever, back in the day. He not only has the eagle eye for talent, but the skills to maintain professional relationships that span decades. Compare that to the revolving doors of editors at the big two- and he is a stand out- the Jack Kirby of editors. Always good product.
Mike Grell kicks major ass, but I believe, and he might well agree, Mike Gold is part of his mojo being so strong.
Joshua N. Pierce on
April 6th, 2009 1:27 am
I am a big fan of b&w art as well. Honestly I think The Walking Dead does a good job and so does Terry Moore with Echo. But the art is more of what I was talking about. I know Terry does his own stuff so he sacrifices some stuff. But, personally if you want to see great b&w go and check out a mini series from Shadowline/Image called Overlook!
ArmstrongArts on
April 6th, 2009 5:08 am
Of Course I like this article, I did the artwork for issue 7 and 13. Even if I must say so myself both are great issues. The storylines for Stormblazer are very good with interesting characters and a nice secondary story line.
You’re absolutely right, Richard. Can’t believe I forgot to mention that. Jason and I are working on a horror graphic novel called Bloody Olde Englund. The art I’ve seen from Jason so far is absolutely fantastic. Check out Jason’s MySpace page where he’s posted some art samples from the book. Great stuff.
Thanks again for the interview, Gary. Much appreciated.
Bobby
Jackie and Bill S on
April 7th, 2009 12:06 am
Great article. Very inspirational. Keep writing those great comics Ultimate Comics.
Thanks, Belkis. I appreciate the vote of confidence. Last year I wrote a short Supergirl sample for some artist friends of mine to draw for portfolio reviews and it really reignited my interest in the character. I think she would be a lot of fun to write.
It is one thing to say I like it. It is quite a different thing to say it is good. There is nothing wrong with what you say here Richard. You simply pointed out that webcomics are not altogether good.
It could be argued that web-comic creators are no less flaky than any other artist, but I really see that the best of the community are the ones looking to have their stuff oneday in print. This applies to the three sites I mentioned in the piece, as well as certain other creators, like Brendan McGinley- who is doing phenomenal stuff. Like those sites, he is a good example of someone doing graphic novels in web format.
I like the idea of POD outfits also having download options. I like the idea of publishers debuting sample teasers online.
All the same, comics should be read, not viewed. Motion comics are an exception of sorts, as they (when done correctly) are a marriage of comics to film.
And truth be told, I would bet all of my worldly possessions that 90% of the regular viewers faithfully following web comics are family and friends of the creators. Every hit is NOT a read, people. Grow the fuck up.
All are well-organized, well-constructed and imaginative works of incredibly high production value. All are intended to be as print volumes, but happen to be premiering via the webz. As such, I would not label them as web-strips. I would have wanted to close Gaslight’s inaugural year with a big bang, saving these monoliths of awesomeness for the bookend.
Maybe interviews down the road a ways…
Norm Breyfogle is an Artist, in every true sense of the term.
peter on
April 9th, 2009 5:03 pm
i had my doubts at first (since the first two catalogs were pretty shabby) but this time around they seem to be right on the ball and they’ve made me a believer. i hope it manages to take Haven in the right direction.
While I dig the DnA team, let’s not forget they wrote such forgettable comics as ForceWorks.
And the Divas comic sounds retarded. For starters (and to show some geek) there is an age range among those four characters of more than 20 years. The writer has done some dynamite work before, especially his 4 series under the Marvel Knights flag; but maybe he has been writing too many cable shows (ala Big Love) and needs a rebreather in comics. If they are looking to pitch to a female audience, I am sure there are less intelligence-insulting ways of going about it.
and my god how those My Cup ‘O Joe articles need a proofreader!
When I first read the headlines I thought Marvel was bringing in a rap group to write a comic. That’s the next evolution of comics right?
We’ve done the Hollywood writers bit already haven’t we?
Forceworks. I own the first issue, damn good comic! Thought for sure it would increase in value by now considering I purchased it as part of a 3 pack from a Family Dollar years ago.
Unless Diamond buys them out like they have the rest of their competition over the past ten or so years.
peter on
April 10th, 2009 1:23 pm
ahh, you hit the nail on the head rich. hopefully they don’t (need to) surrender. although i can’t see how or why diamond would want to buy them out considering that they’d just end up inheriting a distribution branch that specializes in comics that really don’t make diamond’s benchmarks. but who knows, diamond can behave erratic at times.
Victoria is the nicest, sweetest person I’ve ever met. I’ve been lucky enough to have known her for 9 years now and I do have to say that she is one of the biggest nerds I know (in and out of costume). Can’t wait to read your columns.
but seriously, might the Maxx be the first motion comic? thoughts?
Che on
April 14th, 2009 4:59 am
Yeah… It was kind of really annoying… I remeber the end being a HUGE WTF? It’s one of those movies that didn’t end so much as just stop.
I mean the fact that humans are destroying the plabet I get. But considering that all he did was take away electricty? Come on! We’ve managed to do quite a bit of damage even before that. Anyone remeber the dodo? Yeah…
Brian on
April 14th, 2009 4:56 pm
Yay!! Victoria’s first review. I can’t wait to read more from you and while on topic … I couldn’t agree more with your assessment of the issue. I can’t wait for the next one shots to come out also. Keep up the great work!
I think most places really would fall apart though. No more blackberries or Ipods, no more tivo or PS3’s. Stairs instead of elevators, no more fast food. Our culture is selfish and impractical. We cannot live without our primetime teevee and internet porn. Banks would really be screwed. Authorities could no longer communicate with themselves.
Total anarchy.
I’ve not read any of the Wonderland books in quite sometime but I’ve enjoyed what I’ve read, and not just for the pics
I’ll have to check these out again. Thanks for the wonderful review!
Great review, and I agree. This is something for the shelves or for the coffee table, but coffee table books generally only do well when focusing on a singular work or creator. This could be sensory overload for novice readers.
And I miss the John Reppion/Leah Moore stories from previous issues.
Supergrl on
April 16th, 2009 5:30 pm
Keep us updated on the status of your projects! I love your column!!
Joshua N. Pierce on
April 16th, 2009 10:14 pm
That could be a little disturbing………but awesome at the same time.
Agreed! I bought WW also and was VERY pleased with it. But this was a Top 5 for cartoons in the Saturday Morning sense. Maybe movies of the animated sort will be next
I agree, Gary. GI Joe went downhill with that Extreme crapola. The last good storyline was with Slaughter’s Marauders and the debut of Scoop; while Transformers went straight to hell just prior to that Beast Wars rubbish.
Thundercats, thankfully, never had a “fat Elvis” phase.
I will say that Nihilism is more honest, more realistic than political affiliations and/or religious dogma.
That does not make it right, but it makes the aims truer, if only for giving less credibility to convolution and corruption.
Still, the uproar is a bit silly. This IS a fantasy genre, and it’s not like the male heroes in the picture are about to jump in with the deep penetration gang bang hardcore anal orgy action. OF COURSE the camera angle is intentional, but innuendo and threat are not the same.
The only people who would really have an issue with this are the bitter fatties and middle-aged women wishing guys would look at them like that. Turn off the Oprah, put down the McDonalds and stop blaming society for your own inadequacies. Teenagers care about perception by others. Adults should have better things to fret over.
How did I know you were going to comment about the boobies.
This reminds me of the whole tentacle uproar from a few years back, what comic was that? Can’t remember, but it sure was a nice cover.
People tend to focus too much energy on things that really shouldn’t matter but on things that carry significant importance, they care too little about.
Uproar for the sake of uproar. I don’t give a rats ass about Supergirl being displayed in that manner, it means little to me.
Nicholas P. Myers on
April 20th, 2009 2:57 pm
Another good book to read is the Elseworlds graphic novel, Red Sun.
This is a brilliant idea and I use to watch this show with my brother. I miss the good ole’ days too when you looked forward to the Saturday morning lineup. I think the last great cartoon was Justice League Unlimited.
Looking forward to seeing what you select every week!
remember your first comic adventure with beauregard leduke. you put me as a bartender in oklahoma, a far piece from “tavern off the green.”
anyway stopped by the pig and whistle yesterday and this girl behind the bar was all rapt up in reading her comic book. she, didn’t get her name, comics were her favorite past-time and she was all excited because some guy was going to write a comic book taking place in huntington. told her it was already done – more than twenty years ago and that yours truly was a bartender in the opening episode. are you the one doing huntington thing and should i have her sing to your website?
maybe i should my copy of leduke and show her the real thing.
yours truly, burke.
majher bought hhs baseball scoreboard, tina perry got married and moved to pa maybe and joyce kilgore i think is working for the airlines in pa too.
It could have been such a great film, it had the makings to be great but it just wasn’t. I went into this with an open mind, not thinking about the gazillion negative reviews and was hoping that I could find a silver lining but could not do so.
Anyone remember the Marvel hotline back in the 90’s? Krueger was the producer, AND the VOICE of “Spider-Jim” himself.
Although, I had read other interviews that cited the Foot Soldiers as being his first writing gig, which is just not true. While he was a Marvel staffer he wrote there, such things as a New Warriors ashcan comic, and an X-men custom comic.
Still, it is nice to know he is so thoughtful and well-read of a writer. Clockmaker still kicks ass.
It was actually a neat idea- maybe 10 minutes of a pre-recorded thing (updated weekly-?), full of previews, behind the scenes stories and mini-interviews. I remember Keith Giffen talking about the Lunatik character, and the interplay between him and Spider-Jim was so hillarious I must have listened to it half a dozen times.
Now we have the internet, where thanks to twitter we know which Marvel staffers are passing out drunk as it happens. sigh.
Brian on
April 22nd, 2009 3:06 pm
This interview friggin rocks! I’ve never seen that page art before. Nice
Having written a few hundred comics does NOT equate to being well paid.
The man lost his home, lost most of his possessions. Should the same happen to you I hope your ignorance leads to you choking on rubbing alcohol in a cold alley somewhere.
And blaming the bailouts on any one party is retarded. It takes two to tango, and 86 of the 100 wealthiest persons in this country are not Democrats.
[...] Colin Panetta is no stranger to the weird and fantastic. His original comic book, Dead Man Holiday, is a freakishly fun ride through a fictionalized distant future loaded with monsters and mayhem. [...]
Escape from Wonderland sounds interesting. From what I have read of the Wonderland comics they have always been well written and quite entertaining and the artwork has always been magnificent!
I’m almost ashamed to admit that I haven’t read anything Wonderland related in quite some time but I’ll rectify that problem very soon.
This is a very good topic that you’ve chosen this month.
In the past(and still somewhat today) my interview always consisted of me coming up with a series of questions and sending them over to the interviewee, when they came back I rarely followed up on any of the questions I just went with what I had. It was almost as if I was afraid to do a follow-up for fear of aggravating the person on the other end.
I agree with everything that you mentioned.
I really like the way Richard conducts his email interviews. Rather than canned questions he treats it like a conversation, exchanging email after email, letting the responses dictate where to go next, which makes for a very interesting read. Hope I didn’t just give away his trade secrets.
Oh and by my first line…”This is a very good topic that you’ve chosen this month.” I didn’t mean that your previous columns were bad, those were just as interesting, entertaining and educational as this months topic.
No, it’s fine. I also play on the phone quite a bit. Interviews strictly via phone can be awkward however, as my shorthand looks like pages from the Necronomicon.
I do perform a tremendous amount of research prior though, and I keep specific topics in mind to hit. I equate this with drunkenly piloting an aircraft carrier, at times. It has been my experience that the more organic the flow of dialogue, the more likely that gems might unearth themselves. It loosens guards. These should be portraits.
Respect should be given, always, if you want candid honesty to bleed out.
I absolutely love your interviews. You say that it should flow organically and I absolutely agree. I think the reason why it works so well for you is because you put humor into it. I myself have a hard time doing interviews. But I do like researching my subjects. Once I find something interesting about them I already have a few more questions to ask after that. I try to do the James Lipton style….:)
Everyone could learn from Lipton. I’ve watched him interview people I have not the slightest bit of interest in, and turn it into something really really fun, albeit in a psychologically fruitful kinda way.
As someone who has conducted interviews for both radio and print I totally agree with what you have said about being prepared, plus about having follow-up questions prepared, and injecting humor (both to set the interview subject at ease, and for the listener. I want to add that you should make sure to actually listen to what your subject is saying. You can’t believe how many times I’ve read/listened to interviews where the subject says something and the interviewer (who is following a script) doesn’t follow-up with the obvious question that was suggested by what the person said.
I’m really looking forward to that America’s Army GN.
I’ve always enjoyed reading comics that focus on the military, the previews look pretty amazing. Hope I don’t have to join the Army to get a copy, I’ve already served my time.
[...] No, Mr. Massie is the super talented scribe and illustrator of the Alterna Comics published title The Deadbeat, a graphic novel that revolves around a down on his luck former [...]
Supergrl on
April 27th, 2009 12:22 pm
10 Bucks! That’s a lot…oh well, it must be worth it.
Joshua N. Pierce on
April 27th, 2009 7:23 pm
It is $9.95 for an entire graphic novel. It is actually a pretty good deal compared to graphic novel pricing today. Minus Alterna Comics, and a random one here and there.
Joshua N. Pierce on
April 27th, 2009 7:25 pm
Well they changed publisher, and because it was put on the back burner as Millar got busy with Wanted, and the Ultimates among other titles. On top of that he is planning 2 more parts so he was waiting until he could finish it.
Mark on
April 28th, 2009 3:16 am
What the hell??! That is the stupidest thing I have EVER heard!!
Boo friggin hoo, some actor died!! Most of you didn’t even give two spits about him until he did, and don’t even TRY to pretend you did! The Joker is a mainstay in the Batman mythos, and refusing to use the character in future Nolan Batman films because someone who played him offed himself is just ridiculous.
Ledger was a great actor. Guess what? There are ALOT of great actors!! To think that no one can pull off that same quality in the same style is just ignorant fanboyism.
The ONLY reason Joker should not be used in future films is if he doesn’t fit the story.
Oh. And by the way, to all you blind fans that didn’t even care about Batman until this happened- The Dark Knight’s all about Harvey Dent, NOT the Joker. =)
[...] announced plans for a third and final mini-series installment of their Wonderland series entitled ESCAPE FROM WONDERLAND. The seven issue mini-series is the final piece of the epic trilogy with issue #0 due out this [...]
[...] all Mutants! Every Tuesday, Marvel.com (www.marvel.com) will stream episodes from the X-Men animated series that launched in 1992. Relive the adventure, excitement and that awesome theme song every [...]
I’ve never been much of a Star Trek fan. Shatner just ruined it for me.
Capt. Kirk: Good. Let’s. Get. To. Work.
I always though of him as a pompous toad.
This film has me very interested. Watching the previews leaves me with the impression that it is a bit more grounded that any other Star Trek film.
Although it ticks me off when people refer to it as a space opera, which it is not, I have seen enough of the movies and assorted series (and comics) to appreciate it for what it is. Still, this has got to be the best thing that ever happened to the franchise, and I can give or take Abrams. As good as Lost is, Alias was a joke.
Yea ummm so I was thinking….Star Trek is a ummmmm Space Opera.
I agree with this- I think this is the best thing to happen to the franchise.
Brian on
May 3rd, 2009 9:22 pm
I couldn’t agree more. I bought this issue and by the time I was done reading it, I kind of wished that I hadn’t spend $6.99 for an issue that has nothing to do with it’s title. Honestly … I’m only keeping it around for it’s name sake and the cover. It was a good story … the snakes and spiders were really awesome but definately not for this title.
I too thought it would have been an type of haunted house story and didn’t feel like they explained where the mirror came from either. (since the original was destroyed, Johnny has one, and these people have one.)
Brian on
May 3rd, 2009 9:26 pm
Wow. This is a really awesome idea! But don’t forget the after school cartoons too like Darkwing Duck!
There are still some quality cartoons out there, however they are restricted to cable only (DCAU) or rated Mature (AFRO Samurai).
Growing up, I tended to watch Muppet Babies, Dungeons and Dragons, Hulk Hogan’s Rockin Wrestling, Xmen, Wuzzles, Smurfs, and CBS Storytime (since it was the only cartoon on after 12).
I’ve lettered Bobby over at Arcana, and he’s a really good writer. I’m surprised they don’t talk about him over at Wizard! See? CN.I is one step ahead of those guys already!
Benefit auction is a great thing to do.. Trying to save somebody else life is truly a remarkable deed.. IT is not just about raising million of dollars but also building relationship with the donors and beneficiary as well..Thanks for sharing this post and I will do what I can to participate and make this benefit auction a successful one..
Bernadette on
May 7th, 2009 2:12 am
Good picture Bobby and great interview Keep doing what you love.
Brian on
May 7th, 2009 12:49 pm
This was a really funny/fun interview. I’m going to have to go back and get Midas now. For some reason I think the Zenescope mini-series tend to do better than their continuous issues. I’m looking forward to Dante’s Inferno (i hope we get some busty she-devils ala Tenacious D style) and OZ.
Isn’t Salem’s Daughter kind of Vampire-ish … now that i think of it? Anyways … awesome as usual.
Thanks, Bernadette. I love my camera. It allows me to take pictures of myself like that one that I can creatively crop. That’s me in the doorway between my laundry room and kitchen (behind me).
[...] then Martin Fisher was interviewed by ComicNews.Info and Webcomic Finds is impressed by Dovecote Crest. I also seem to have missed this post about Bengo [...]
Amen to the answer for the “border-line porn” question. Everyday we look at sexy images and guess what…there’s nothing wrong with that. Sex sells because that’s what we want and ask for it. Two thumps up for extremely hot chicks!
No, I think there was a really weird point there when all these rated R/pg13 movies were getting kids cartoons, like Rambo, and Police Academy, and Beetlejuice and Conan.
Oh god, who would deny 70 years worth of cool reading materials in the backstock? The same arrogantly youthful mentality that presumes unless something happened in the past five minutes it doesn’t count, like how only “music” on the radio right now is worth listening too, etc.
Give me Kirby’s Kamandi over Final Crisis any day of the Hypertime, give me Simonson’s epic run on Thor over Straczynski’s inability to meet a deadline. You like the pulp of Brubaker’s style? Hunt down some Max Allan Collins and see where he learned it from. You think Butch Guice is a superstar now? Dig up copies of his run on Nick Fury, agent of SHIELD.
Comics are certainly seeming at their most exciting time now, but a little knowledge of the past will tell you that everything now is ONLY derivation of stories and ideas from before.
I will say that the last bit of true innovation in mainstream comics were in the first few years of the Vertigo imprint at DC. The NEW is always raging in certain smaller press books, like those from Fantagraphics, Drawn & Quarterly, etc. But unfortunately the mass of comics journalism remains incapable of looking beyond the capes.
this new Star Trek is so much fun, especially after what a letdown Wolverine ended up being; the new Capt. Kirk is a lot more more believable as a leader-type than William Shatner
I don’t see anything wrong with todays comics. Most publishers are putting out some high quality material. The problem is the price tag on these books. I’m no longer at the point where I can simply pick up a title, adding it to my pull list, and trying it out for a couple of months without dropping something else first.
This was a very entertaining read. Good question asking about the borderline porn, I have heard that brought up a time or two regarding Zenescope. I really liked the answer Ralph gave.
Dantes Inferno sounds like something right up my alley.
Secret lovers that’s what they are,
Try so hard to hide the way they feel
When they both belong to someone else
But they can’t let it go
Cause what they feel is oh so real, so real, so real, soooooo reaaaaaaaaaallll
Shit, Brubaker already not only brought back the original Bucky, but made him over from the Winter Agent to the current Cap. Can he now do the same with Liefeld’s Bucky, making her cool? I’m guessing that is the girl from Heroes Reborn, who Jeph Loeb somehow pulled into the actual Marvel U.
Also, I heard Gene Colan was contributing to this as well. if Marvel left his name out of the blurb, then I ain’t too happy.
You are a gentleman and a scholar. I’m smiling from ear to ear at not only reading your tremendously artful review, but also seeing that you really captured the true nature of the book. You are a generous person, and I sincerely appreciate you even identifying the art team members by name. They are truly going to love your write-up as much as I do!
[...] Outlaw Entertainment was interviewed on Comic News Info and Jason Burns talks about their graphic novel specialization and their submission policy. [...]
Actually, I am digging this.
I think the only character that ever went on an Avengers mission before was Falcon’s falcon, Redwing, but Eliopoulos is writing a story with a strong innocent vibe. It’s not outside of the mainstream continuity, but it is much more light-hearted than the Dark-everything stuff. I believe DC did a super pets thing in the silver age, but this is just a fun read. No pretensions. Sure they’re all animals, but it never gets cartoony, aside from a froggy god of thunder. Even that is handled buyably well.
Neils the cat is my fave, as Speedball exists because of that little puss. Anyone who has ever owned a cat has at one time toyed with throwing them, across the room or out a window, whatever, so I always thought a bouncing cat was a glance into Ditko’s sense of humor.
All of the characters have been around long enough so as to have their own personalities, and it stays true to them, showing the creative team are total geeks, thankfully. Lockjaw is played as the leader, but I think Lockheed the mini-dragon is actually the smartest. Now I need to go re-read my issues of the Claremont/Davis run early on from Excalibur (which was the ONLY time that book was readable).
I’ll tuck my geek back in now.
I hope they stay true to the source material as much as possible. I want to see Asgardian clothing and all. Don’t give me some modern day dummed down version of Thor and Loki the way they did in the X-Men films. That black leather was cool but dammit that wasn’t the X-Men from the comics.
If this had been 5 years ago, I bet the roles of Holmes and Watson would have been reversed.
I like Ritchie, especially when he is Madonna-free, and though this does not smell like Sherlock Holmes…I would totally watch this.
And I do have a growing collection of different artists’ interpretations of Speedball. One guy said the request was so left field that he refused to charge me for the page of original art.
Shipping alone probably cost HIM 10 bucks.
i like artist who are trying to do something to revamp the glory days of comics i mean, since Marvel and DC have finalliy sold out to alternate stories and now movies. Comics at this point needs fresh ideas and as steve put it some weird titles to spice up the general comic landscape
[...] Wonder of Comics: Zuda Feb. ‘09 Competition Update & an Experiment in Webcomics Wonder of Comics: Zuda Feb. ‘09 Competition Update & an… [...]
Steven Surman on
May 21st, 2009 12:12 am
And along with all of those points, don’t forget that Alan Moore used the imagery of Christ in “Promethea” to explain the levels of kabalistic symbolism and magic.
But I don’t feel that anything interesting can be sapped from the Bible. It’s a *really* boring story.
There actually is a rich mythology to it (I could provide tons of interesting links on the lore of angels and demons alone, and none of that New Age hogwash), but christianity is the only religion in comics that is not allowed unless there is a sales pitch in the mix.
By refraining from general exploratory usage, the powers that be are obviously acknowledging that it is in any way special or unique of other systems of spirituality, which arguably goes against the first amendment.
Nice review; glad you had a good experience. I’m a big fan of Doug Jones; he was amazing in Pan’s Labyrinth!
Brian on
May 25th, 2009 3:01 pm
YAY!!! First post!!! I agree that some of it was confusing but I think that that was mostly due to Grant Morrison’s definition of what Anti-Life was supposed to be in the first place. I think given the crap that Morrison put forth, they did the best they could. Go Babs in the alley!!!!
So is my wife, of course SDCC was out of the question, but when she heard about this panel she was like, OK….what would it take to go to SDCC.
She is as big a fan of Twilight as they come. Posters, books, keychains, t-shirts..you name it. She was planning on attending Twi-Con in August but she backed out, my wallet thanks her for that.
I’m happy to hear that this game will be available for the PSP since I do not own a PS3 or an X-Box 360.
I look forward to fighting for freedom whenever theres trouble.
And with Archie, something our brothers and sisters in the media are missing is the fact that, as innovative and creative as the Archie comics have been in their long history- there is NO continuity. They could easily do an entire blockbuster mini focusing on every aspect of the marriage ordeal, then resume doing exactly what they have always been doing. This is just the latest from the REAL House of Ideas. Anyone who thinks that Archie is not MORE daringly original and ground-breaking than Marvel and DC combined has not read any Archie. Seriously.
Now I am tempted to do a column sometime spouting the 1,001 virtues of Archie Comics..
[...] News showcases a really cool Fan-Made Green Lantern Trailer. The creator Jaron Pitts grabbed bits and pieces from around 30 other films, worked some Adobe [...]
Brian on
May 27th, 2009 12:18 pm
Nice interview … shame it was so short. I guess with David having a new born, he really doesn’t have too much time to talk. I own both of his Xmen dvd’s and can’t wait for the rest!
This is a problem that I run across quite a bit. Personally, I feel that I am always underselling myself, with friends and colleagues, I see that many of them don’t quite know how to market themselves (write their own bios, resumes, etc.) This is a lesson that we can all learn.
[...] comic, there were no superheroes as we think of them today. Well, that copy of Action Comics was sold for $317,200. Not bad for an initial 35 cent investment, [...]
If you can teach them to write bios, resumes, etc, then that is something valuable for others. Simple stuff like that can take you a long way and sets you apart from others.
Affairs! HA!
The other day and came across a stack of about 15 Archie Digest comics at a yard sale. Reading through some of these I noticed that Betty was kind of easy. Quickly moving from one guy to the next, in one strip she made a date with maybe 4 different guys. I mean, yes, Veronica maybe a bitch but at least she is a faithful bitch, at least she was in the strips I read.
Now maybe Betty will go all prom night psycho and crash the wedding and cut some shit up. Then again what do I know.
I bet there’s a big sequel in the works, like an event crossover, where it’ll be revealed that Jughead blackmailed Arch into settling for Veronica so that he could have Betty all to himself.
Brian on
June 2nd, 2009 12:50 pm
Wow cool. I didn’t know he did S/B Vs. V/W. I read the first 4 issues of that then had to drop it because i was spending too much on comics.
I’m really loving these Lego games; Stars Wars & Lego Batman were so much fun. I found the controls on Indiana Jones frustrating. Looking forward to this one; I’m a big Harry Potter fan!
Brian on
June 2nd, 2009 12:52 pm
I love the Gamestop store poster with Joker on it (the one where they say you can play as him not the one with the TV head). I can’t wait to see what the game looks like in Joker-Vision.
BNW really is the best comic store in the Philly area. I’ve been to most of the others and NO ONE matches the size of their show room and most DEFINATELY no one matches their employees. (unlike Bagged and Boarded who curse up a storm and don’t like helping customers).
I love this store … that’s why i stop in weekly no matter what.
Peter! Glad to hear from my wonderful ex co-host! Retro sounds great and looking forward to seeing some fresh work from you! Absolutely amazing stuff you got. I know that you have always been a creative soul but if you ever need some pr/marketing help. Give me a shout.
If you dig the older Vertigo books, the Heavy Metal mag, Ted McKeever/Mike Avon Oeming-styled art, if you remember the online whatisthematrix? comics, this book is down your stream.
Yes, I am personally endorsing this. It is that good.
[...] Army – The Graphic Novel was produced by Michael Barnett and written by M. Zachary Sherman (Shrapnel) with art by Michael Penick (The Corps!) and J. Brown (Thunderbolts). The web interface [...]
With the new information being released I gotta say, that is a really stupid way to die. People don’t relaize just how dangerous those practices are. Is it really worth it in the end? Cutting your life short and breaking the hearts of your friends and loved ones? Seems selfish to me. I don’t get; it smacks of stupid.
Sadly, his freak accident is going to overshadow his career. People will be talking more about how he died rather than his work.
Honestly, I hate how solid this series is. I love Adlard’s work, he actually drew the first X-files comics way back when. I think the longer this series goes, the better it grows, like wine, or Pearl Jam.
So I should dust off that old script for Lincoln Logs: The Movie?
Brian on
June 7th, 2009 1:48 pm
1. I see no point in reading the Twilight books, however, I do see a point in watching the movies. Vampires man … from Interview to Blade … aren’t they manditory man movies no matter how much they suck?
2. Captain America should DEFINATELY come out on 4th of july or labor day … or memorial day.
3. I don’t read much marvel but definately don’t raise the price on all of them. If i can save a buck on 4 comics then i practically got one for free. I’m on a budget man.
4. Being exclusive can only really be used to where a story is broken. Once broken, then the world IS going to pass the word (especially websites). Otherwise the story doesn’t spread.
5. about Burger King … HELL TO THE YES!!!!
6. while it’s ture that you shouldn’t have to censor yourself for anyone’s well being, it’s also true that you can attract more flies with honey than vinager. Call ‘em like you see ‘em but, if you know someone will take offense, frame it in the context of your own oppinion. If those being offended can’t tolerate your oppinion then they are offending you with their ignorance to your feelings and deserve what they get.
Lincoln Logs: The movie has plenty of potential.
Pillow People would work well as a horror flick. http://www.inthe80s.com/toys/pillowpeople0.shtml
Super Pickle could easily be made into a porn film. Hell, maybe it already has.
Oh and when will we get a live-action Q-Bert film? He was the shit when I was in school.
Brain- The other day, while browsing the book isle at Walmart, my wife tells me that I really don’t need to purchase a new book because she has all of these great Twilight books that I can read. No thanks.
Cap on Memorial Day weekend wouldn’t be a bad idea.
Marvel really ticks me off anymore, every month I seem to see another title raised to $3.99. At one point my pull list was about 90% Marvel, with the price increases that list is down to 2 titles, Captain America and Uncanny X-Men. Both of those books are now priced at $3.99. I’ve followed Cap since issue 1 of the reboot and Uncanny since I can remember so dropping those would be really difficult but not out of the question at this point.
It’s funny when it comes to “exclusives”. One site breaks it, the next site tweaks the story and runs it as an exclusive and so forth. Previews are funny too. Several, not to be named sites, claim exclusivity on certain previews when in fact they aren’t exclusive to that site at all. Hey, whatever works to bring in the visitors I guess.
Thanks for finding us and reviewing us, Richard! Issue #2 is in the can, and should be available at Literate Machine in a couple of weeks, at which point I’ll send one your way.
[...] my mates Steve Ekstrom for the wonderful interview on NEWSARAMA and Gus Higuera for his masterful interview for ComicNews.Info. I have a couple more interviews I’m completing, so I will make links available as they are [...]
Good pointing saying that it is parody and not an adaption. I think when you get into that frame of mind, you will be able to accept the film. I personally loved the animated version and knew that this Will Ferrell wasn’t going to be anything like it.
I recommend somebody picks up a copy of this and see what all the buzz is about. I read it and enjoyed every single page. It definitely deserves the award.
Nathan Thomas Milliner on
June 18th, 2009 11:22 pm
LOL…I had no knowledge of this publication and I am suprised that my artwork was featured in the comic book. While it was nice to read that my cover for the whole war in Iraq comic was the only thing you found decent about the book I’d like to say that my working on that peice of artwork was not soiling myself with Post Mortem (who I don’t work for) but was done to support the troops overseas because the book to my knowledge is a charity for veterans. I honestly am not associated with this publisher and the art was not a paying gig but a contribution for a good cause.
[...] huge thanks goes out to Richard Caldwell and ComicNews.info for the interview that they did with me. Richard I have fun on twitter and I enjoyed trading emails back and forth [...]
[...] Higuera is doing an outstanding job getting interviews from willing Zuda contestants over at Comic Info News with his Wonder of Comics [...]
Georgi on
June 25th, 2009 10:42 pm
I’m glad to see it doing well. I particularly liked the dark cinematography. I found a good discussion of the movie at pandalous. It’s here: http://www.pandalous.com/nodes/drag_me_to_hell
Though with Jackson, the FIRST kid who came forward did describe Jackson’s penis in testimony. (His case was screwed though because his dad had tried to blackmail Jackson over it prior to litigation.) The family eventually settled out of court, which kept Jackson from being prosecuted.
So yes, he was guilty.
Two other families are known to have settled (for undisclosed amounts) out of court in the years that followed the media blitz of the first case. There would have been no settlements at all if not for legitimate cases. He was a child bugger who should have been locked up a long long time ago.
Same writers x J.J. Abrams = Awesome movie! (Star Trek)
Same writers – Michael Bay = Crawsh, explode! (Transformers)
Brian on
June 29th, 2009 12:47 am
I have to disagree with almost everything you’ve said. I thought that the first Transformers movie was nothing short of awesome. I didn’t have high hopes for the sequel (because it’s a sequel) but have to admit that it still fell short. I understood the plot clearly but felt that they took way too long in getting to it. I think that they could have cut about half of the movie out and it would have moved a lot smoother. Also i noticed that they added some more kid friendly elements to it so that it didn’t seem so dark (as parents would surely complain). They really took away from the film. The biggest problem for me is that there were too many comic relief characters on the screen and too few heroes. They didn’t introduce new robots well or at all and the actions sceens were so blurred that you can’t tell one robots fist from another robots @$$.
It was a mid range movie. a solid 5/10. Poor story with great CG and fair action scenes. I’d put it right up there with Wolverine Origins or Spiderman 3.
I’d put both Transformers films, and Wolverine: Origins, on par with Shaq’s Steel movie from the 90’s. All of the filmmakers should have their contracts ripped to shreds.
The only Transformers movie in my mind featured the death of Optimus.
Leslie on
June 29th, 2009 3:41 am
I agree with Richard above. Though MJ may have never been found guilty, the evidence found sure did prove otherwise. With his fame there is not jury that would have found him guilty anyway, even if there was video proof if the case. I will always remember that about him, above any claim to fame he has in the music industry. This is one death I am far from mourning, but instead I am actually relieved that his kids, and any others that he surrounds himself with are now safe from his evil ways.
One question, why is this article on a comic site? I came to the site for reviews on comics, news on releases, ect. This is not news I would not have found elsewhere, 200 times before this article was posted, this is pretty much a wasted article.
@Leslie-
We are more than comics, and an eventful day like that deserves to be acknowledged somehow.
And this would apply, for Fawcett’s ties to the Charlie’s Angels property, and for Jackson- his known love of comic books, the Captain EO flick, and the Moonwalker game, all of which would suggest a place here.
I find it interesting that I wrote majority of this article on Farrah yet all anyone is discussing is Jackson. Furthermore why Leslie would question the grounds on our site covering these events when our headline clearly states ‘YOUR WINDOW TO THE POP CULTURE WORLD’.
Brian on
June 29th, 2009 12:18 pm
This year was easily the best year we went. It’s going to be hard to top this next year.
Brian on
June 29th, 2009 12:22 pm
Seems like i’m the odd ball out here but I feel like i’m in no place to judge him for his acts. Yeah … i feel like he did it. But i also feel like Andy Dick should have been shot years ago too. I’m not privy to the facts of the case and feel just as strongly that the family could have been trying to milk a celebrity for some money. I don’t trust MJ but i’m not going to pass judgement on him … because that’s why we have courts.
I do have to admit .. with every court case that came out, i started to care less and less for the impact of his music. As far as musical impact goes … his death is a shame. As far as the person goes … i could care less.
@Victoria- I think the heat that Fawcett received over her decision on how to spend her final days was bullshit. That was absolute bravery on her part, and made a hell of a strong statement on the need for more medical research.
@Brian- The courts are not at all dependable though. Because he bought off his accusers, the charges were dropped, which meant that conviction was out of the question. As far as judging him or anyone goes, how fair is it to give praise and not critique? Where is the integrity there? Even if I were a fan, I would still think the known crimes and sins should bear weight on his memory. Good and Evil do not really exist outside of ideals.
Everybody is a mixed bag of tricks, without exception. To focus on only one side of a person is to deny that they are three dimensional.
Brian on
June 29th, 2009 5:27 pm
What you say is very true. However I, personally, haven’t seen enough to damn/vindicate him or the accusers completely. Too many strange things on both sides of the fence for me. I feel that, yeah, he probably did it … but I’m not sure that i can go around saying that as a matter of fact as most people are in this controversy. All i’m saying is that i see alot of people stating their opinion as fact on this subject (especially on the radio). I understand people are passionate about the topic but i would hope that they can realize that most of us are only seeing the situation from outside the courtroom (and across the parking lot) and know that all the answers that people not involved can give are guesses/assumptions at best.
notmebutyou on
June 29th, 2009 6:35 pm
well, his music, is not something I was ever really enjoyed, but I understand how he inspired others, those in which I really enjoy… but on his personal life.. eh, I hope in the end he’s judged by someone UPTHERE, thats’s when the truth is told.
Now, Farrah… a beautiful woman, who will be missed!
Brian on
June 29th, 2009 7:02 pm
I AM SO BUYING THIS! However, once again, i’m only getting the cheep version. I own all of the DCAU (except Season 1 Zeta Project) and don’t see the need to pay extra to get episodes of a show i already own. I really wish Bruce Timm would stop putting episodes on these DVD’s that have had VERY SUCESSFUL releases already. He’s not bringing attention to them by adding these on … it’s just filler. What would be nice is if he went a head and added the missing cross over episodes of Static Shock and Zeta Project that were never released. I still want my Static shock meets Batman/Batman Beyond/JL/JLU/Superman episodes and my 1 missing Zeta Project meets Batman Beyond episode.
I think the flaming needs to stop. How many times are particular individuals going to voice their opinion especially when it’s the same opinion? This isn’t a debate; if people think he’s guilty that’s fine; we are all entitled to our own opinion but you also don’t need to jump down EVERYONE’S throat who think otherwise.
chanel on
June 30th, 2009 12:21 pm
I agree. Everyone has their own opinion, you shouldn’t have to jump on everyone who thinks different than you do. Thats immature. You DON”T know the truth, you were NOT there, you don’t know all the details, so I say you think he was gulity thats fine but unless you were there and know all the FACTS you should let people think what they want. No one will EVER do what that man did to the music industry. What went on in his personal life is just as I said it, HIS personal life. I’m sure theres things you’ve done that you shouldn’t have its just not all over the news like his life was! I think its horrible if he did do those things to those childeren, I’m a mother myself and can’t even imagine. But his job was to entertain & make music. Those things he did great. I grew up with him and I remember the milestones he accomplished not the wrong things he did. When someone passes do you sit there and talk about the bad things they did? If so you need to be checked, thats just not healthy.
I am glad you posted that today. Last night, I discovered “Merlin” on http://hulu.com and added it to my queue. They are only allowed to host 5 episodes at a time, but right now they have the first 5 up so if anyone is interested in checking it out there, now’s the time!
I finally got around to reading this comic and found that I really enjoyed it. As you stated above, it had a different feel. It was fresh, so to speak. It’s well worth picking up.
Brian on
July 1st, 2009 12:24 pm
They 0 issue is an awesome set up issue for the smack down about to happen! I loved the bios on the characters in the back and i bought both covers for that connecter picture. It’s really good.
Brian on
July 1st, 2009 12:26 pm
I love how they raised the price and give you less for your money. The first two seasons were sold for $17 each and had 16 episodes. Now these are 15 and 14 episodes and sold for $23 each. Ah Marvel … you sure know how to rip a fellow off.
Though neither of these people (save maybe Billy Mays) mattered much to me, I liked how Jon Stewart put it “apparently everyone who meant anything to anyone died this weekend”
Lee Newman on
July 1st, 2009 6:36 pm
Richard,
Sounds awesome!!
Do you know if they’ll be at comic-con?
@matt- keep your eyes on the Arcana site for release and order info. Personally, between the Fro book, my friend Bobby Nash’s upcoming Yin Yang GN, and especially this- Arcana is looking downright sexy right now.
This looks totally awesome! I really hope they don’t hold back on the brutal fight scenes– especially the World’s Finest vs. Captain Marvel and Hawkman! Thanks for the post!
Who needs to pay their creators anyhow? Just turn on the boobtube and the stuff creates itself. Apparently.
brian on
July 4th, 2009 3:19 am
I am so wasted right now so i hope you can appreciate how hard it is for me to type. I loved this issue and that’s noot the vodka talking. It was one of the most action packed issues i’be read from wonderland in a while(since Beyond was a little slow but still good). Big actiona and good story.
I love your articles baby … kepp up pth good work.
Richard,
Thanks for your support, as you say we really need to raise our profile in the USA if we are to continue to be listed by Diamond. It’s a shame that they’ve raised the bar at this time as we are just beginning to grow globally and these things take time. We’ve some great projects ready to be printed and are waiting on the situation with Diamond before we decide on numbers. If we don’t get the Diamond orders we will continue but will be pushed back into the UK and that’s a real shame as our intention has always been to bring the work of new creators to as wide an audience as possible … supported as you say by a number of professionals. I’ll be keeping my fingers crossed but articles like this will I think be more effective ) Thanks again. Dave West.
You forgot to mention that the narration at the beginning of each episode is reminiscent of the old news reels that would be shown in movie theaters before the feature started.
I love Ahsoka, but I can’t help but wonder, what is the Jedi Council thinking when giving Anakin a Padewan? At this point, he has clearly established he’s headstrong and rebellious, frustrating the Council at every turn. Is it really a good idea to let him teach someone else? Oh, and don’t assume she’ll end up dead in the Purge. I wouldn’t be surprised if she ends up being one of the many that escape into hiding.
As a finale villain, Bane didn’t work for me. His blatant Western roots made him stick out like a sore thumb in the Star Wars universe. I would’ve liked to have seen someone scarier.
Still, I hope the first season gets a complete blu ray release soon.
Is it not enough that he’s been cast as Wade Wilson AND Hannibal King? He’s not an actor, he’s a comedian. And last I heard Green Lantern Hal Jordan was a serious role. Hey I got an idea. He can be Green Lantern. Green Lantern G’Nort
meemo on
July 14th, 2009 12:55 am
sadly, I can’t make it to Comic Con… I live tooo far away… but I can’t wait to be able to pick up Grim #40!
Chrissypoo on
July 14th, 2009 8:16 pm
Please consider skipping this event because it is located at the Manchester Grand Hyatt which is the subject of a boycott by major civil rights, travel planners, convention planners and unions for it’s financial support of Prop 8.
NO. I am playing G’nort, or I will destroy the world.
Steven Surman on
July 15th, 2009 2:14 am
Perhaps Marvel is finally ending ULTIMATE X-MEN after Robert Kirkman ran it into the ground beyond any form of repair.
Tabatha on
July 15th, 2009 5:59 am
Wonderland is a very good series, worth reading. It is without a doubt one of the top comic book series i’ve read in a while. My opinon is to go out and give it a chance, your probley won’t regret it.
i don’t really know if kirkman (or any of the writers or artists) at marvel or dc really have THAT much power or say in any of their books. so i don’t think it’d be right to blame him. but i do know that marvel’s been planning on “ending” their ultimate line for some time now.
Richard, Thanks for taking the time to review one of our books, and it’s reassuring to see that the quality of the book supported your earlier posting on getting the book into US stores … the number of orders in the US were low, but sufficient to get Diamond to send them over … we’re always open to re-orders mind .. so if people can’t find a copy then please get your local comic emporium to order one for you through Diamond … well .. I’m off now to finish my PREDATORS contribution … next years anthology … Dave W
As the writer you never know what the artist will do with a script but the last thing you want to do is meddle in their creative world … I couldn’t help but smile at every page that Marleen sent through … she nailed everything I wanted and more … as you say I’m sure that there’s nothing that I could write that she wouldn’t illustrate perfectly …. she really brought this tale alive.
You review is right on the money and highlights exactly what we attempted to do with this tale … I’m glad it worked so well for you … thanks for reviewing it for us.
[...] Caldwell over at ComicNews.info interviewed me about Sergeant Zero and my work in comics, pulp, books and newspapers…generally everything I’ve done up [...]
What a fantastic interview! I’ve known Anthony for years and learned some stuff about him through this that I never knew.
You’re a pleasure to work with, Anthony!
-Dave
EvAnWuzhere on
July 27th, 2009 2:56 pm
it doesnt feel like comic con 4 me…. the color the presentation whats on it, it wouldve been nice if alex ross did 1 this year again
I agree, the best thing anyone in any industry can do is…treat everyone with an equal respect! It goes a LONG way to building strong connections. You’ve done well with that
Great interview, Anthony! Sounds like you’ve had an interesting career so far. I can’t wait to see what the future holds for you.
Also, man, I can’t wait to read Sgt. Zero. It’s a beautiful looking book, and I don’t doubt the script is fantastic.
Damn! I am left nearly speechless to your tirade of needed babbling for the greater good. True. We people have become fattened in our ways over the past decades. Comic book industry too. Comic Con is a joke which has been taken over by Hollywood “elite” the likes of Nicolas Cage and Nick Simmons. Where along the brightened path did we lose our way of righteousness and power? When did we become the enemy? And how, might we rightfully take back the chains that now enslave us and ours, and force them upon the ideals we know as the almighty dollar? The revolution is upon us. We just have to know when to duck and cover and when to wield our tools. Cause as Ani DiFranco says, “every tool is a weapon if you hold it right.” And my brothers and sisters. We must now take back what was ours. We must make it ours again. And sometimes you have to move backwards in order to have that future.
Did anyone know that there was a Marvel Comics based game called Mugen? Its a free game and features Spiderman, X-men, The Avengers and more. There is like Spidermna, Venom, Carnage, Armored Spiderman, Symbiote Spiderman and too many more to mention. You can ploay as the good guys or the bad guys. Anyhow, I thought this would be a relevant post and get some more people into playing Mugen since you can create your own Marvel characters or modify the existing ones.
Sam Agro on
July 31st, 2009 2:12 pm
That’s certainly a lot to chew on Richard. Finding a cheaper publishing alternative through outdated methods is a possibility I’ve often considered. But, in practice, as with everything, it can become quite daunting. Finding anyone with a functioning old-school offset is difficult, and older techniques for color separation can be VERY time consuming if you want any result more complex than a 60’s “flat color” look.
Which is not to say a product/concept where that sort of coloring might look “right” is out of the question. However, tastes have grown somewhat more sophisticated in the last 20 years. Art, generally, is expected to be more illustrative, and coloring has grown into a richer, more “painterly” approach. (This is not always executed effectively, of course, but it is still part of the equation.)
It is very easy for fans, escpecially younger fans with more changable tastes, to completely ignore anything that doesn’t conform to this more complex modern norm of comic book production.
And, unfortunately, the fanboy is still the largest comic-purchasing demographic available.
@john- Thanks. My “tirade of needed babbling for the greater good” was a bit of a ramble this time, even without the Guinness I was slamming while typing the final draft. The style was meant to suit the confusion of the “now”.
These are the main arguments I am hearing and reading where regards the state of things, and while I continue this line of thought from the last column on through the next few, I really aim to start coming up with more suggestions.
Like the saying goes, if you are not an active part of the solution then you are just another part of the problem. Anybody can bitch and moan. Anyone can tear down. Not everyone can build.
@sam- Thanks for checking out my thing here.
I know anything and everything time consuming goes against the short attention spans that our culture breeds, but I think there is always an exception to the rule, just as much as I believe a step back in the evolution of production methods may appeal to more than a couple of people out there, from nostalgic fans to creators who like a bit more sweat and burn in their craft.
All said, I really dig your idea of aiming the cheaper method at comics for kids/all-ages. Sure they may be less refined in their tastes, but again, there is that whole nostalgia thing which I worry sometimes many editors and publishers underestimate. This aside from Didio’s fondness of 70’s DC. How awesome would it be for Marvel’s Adventures line of all-ages comics to resort to methods like these? It would not hurt their sales, I’d bet- at the very least.
And there is the ongoing need for more kid-friendly reading materials anyhow, all across the board…
[...] I so agree with you on the last part. I recently wrote an article on ComicNews.info about never quitting. It’s something that you shouldn’t do even if you failed a thousand [...]
Joseph Copeli on
August 4th, 2009 5:07 pm
This read was just as good as you made it seem, Richard. Well done. I love it when a comic can be exciting, inspiring and bittersweet at the same time. Stories like this make me want to write comics.
The scariest three words you wrote here are Jon and Kate.” I’ve never seen the show and never plan to. I hate people who have that many kids and they deserve to be sucked dry by the TV vampires who devour them. The kids, of course, will grow up to be child molesters and serial rapists, who will have their own show by that point. Hopefully the kids of the Octomom will fight the kids of Jon and Kate and we’ll have a bloodbath on our hands.
Steven Surman on
August 13th, 2009 3:01 pm
Well, I need to say that Ultimate X-Men and The Ultimates suffered bad sales because both Robert Kirkman and Jeph Loeb squeezed the cool out of both of them. Out went the reinvention and in came the stale BAM/SOCK/POW crap that’s dragging the medium down.
Bendis is a rare gem, though. I look forward to the TPB of the new volume.
April on
August 14th, 2009 4:56 am
My two favorite quotes in this chapter:
Anyone can destroy, but very few can build.
Cycles. Beautiful cycles, is all that living ever was and ever will be.
K. A. Huss on
August 15th, 2009 5:47 am
I saw the movie with my 14 yr old son and I thought it was FANTASTIC not to mention the fact that there are now possibilities of future STAR TREK movies to be made ! (Within the very near future, I HOPE?) I am really looking forward to the movie coming out on DVD. All that I can say is “Keep up the gfeat work and please keep it going”
JoJo on
August 17th, 2009 1:17 pm
I think a lot of the credit for the justified hype around Boom’s titles should go to Chip Mosher, who’s tireless in his promotion of all of Boom’s books–not just the easier-to-sell ones like Waid’s work. Mosher, Waid, and the rest of the gang over at Boom are committed to ALL of their titles, and treat each one as a unique and special opportunity to bring new readers into the fold.
If more publishers treated their books and readers like Boom does, the comics industry would be in far better place than it is now.
Steven Surman on
August 21st, 2009 2:45 pm
Is this going to be it for Spider-Woman? There will be no books released?
The whole reason why I read comics is to *not* have something controlled for me with voice-overs, so I can hold a book and admire it.
[...] According to the Wordsmith, WE KILL MONSTERS is “…developing into a rich hybrid of horror, comedy, and drama.” You can read the whole review here: http://comicnews.info/?p=8825 [...]
I agree with a lot of what you said. As far as the contributors part I can understand where you are coming from but considering that this is a non-paying gig I don’t harbor any hard feelings over lack of contributions.
What does piss me off is when people duck and run, never to be heard from without as much as saying hi, bye or kiss my ass. I mean come on, what ever happened to common courtesy?
I really believe that comics journalism is far more difficult than many people realize, at least when done properly and professionally. Too many folks I’ve chatted with believe that anyone can pop out a review, etc.
Bullshit.
This is a trade. Trades have to be learned, generally with more than a little scar tissue along the way.
Of course, I am going to extremes though. Some people may just not have the time or interest that some of us do. Life gets in the way of life all the damn time.
That debate over the validity of comics journalism is still kicking. I just proposed that “yellow” journalism is anything that sells nothing. How else could it be defined? What the hell is the difference between “tabloid” journalism and the proper?
I think a lot of articles and writers get the tabloid label wrongfully, all because they are not selling whatever is trendy that moment in time.
I’m glad you guys are liking the column! I actually encountered this situation when I was redesigning my website. I swore I was able to do everything – logo concept, web design, copy writing, etc. I was completely wrong.
-Belkis
W.B on
August 28th, 2009 6:49 pm
The blu-ray vertion sounds great im going to buy a blu-ray player just so i can get it hope it doesnt disapoint. Hope their making a new trek movie.
Kendrick Jones on
August 30th, 2009 4:44 am
I’m planning on attending Pittsburgh Comicon. I just hope some, I know not all, but some of the names of stars for consideration I gave to Michael and Renee will attend. I’ve even had dreams in May and August about making sure to catch one in particular. I won’t say who but I really hope that Pittsburgh Comicon will make this dream come true. Saw a picture of the new Monroeville Convention Center looking at SteelCityCon.com. Looks very nice. Thank you.
Well assuming all of the artists and animators will be the same, I do not think the quality of Marvel cartoons will change, except I never really cared for spiderman on Disney anyhow. I am still a fan of the old Marvel comics cartoons.
I was informed recently that there will be at least 4 issues in this series and I will have a short 3 pager in each issue. Fun stuff. Thanks to everyone who picked up a copy.
Also, there will be a booksigning tour October 21 – 24 starting in Atlanta, GA and concluding in Greenville, SC.
[...] ComicNews.Info – “Despite my inability to instantly adapt to the writing, I admit that Rebirth is a fun book. Issue #4 specifically has stuck with me, and it has more to do with the art than anything else.” [...]
In light of your article, Bluewater offers this formal statement.
Recently Bluewater has endured a series of attacks regarding its business practices. Bluewater does not engage or condone any such underhanded or untoward activity and refute each and every allegation made against the company and me personally. Much of the perceived conflict comes from a handful of creatives who became disenchanted over the terms of their signed agreements and mistakenly believe they are owed compensation.
Because Bluewater is a small company, our business model is such that artists, writers, and colorists are paid if and when a property (single issue or trade paperback) becomes profitable. When prospective creatives are engaged to work on a property, they are informed of this up front and are asked to review the terms in the written contract. There is no coercion; no strong-armed tactics, no manipulating industry novices. When a book reaches profitability, defined by a specific number of sales, the creatives are paid according to the percentages contained in their contract.
It is unfortunate that not every book Bluewater publishes has reached the profitability threshold. Some, in fact, never sell more than 800 copies. Some are canceled by our national retail distributor Diamond. And some are not fit for publication because they do not meet a professional standard. But that is the risk Bluewater and the creative accepts. I respect the labor these artists, writers and colorists put into creating a title, and am more than willing to share in the profits. However, if a book does poorly, it is Bluewater that absorbs the overwhelming majority of the loss. Yes, there is a risk on behalf of the creatives as well, but they at least have a professional entry for their portfolio that can use to get other jobs in the industry.
It is also unfortunate that certain media types have questioned Bluewater’s credibility because they have chosen to take situations out of context or accuse the company of manipulating sales figures. This, of course is impossible, since the sales figures of every issue are a matter of record on the ICV2 site.
I understand that our business model is not for everybody. I understand that there are some people who feel they have been misled or cheated. However, every single person who is owed money that is contractually due has been paid. Many of the creatives noted in the articles that allege non-payment do not state fully why payments were not rendered. Some were fired from books for non-performance, some worked on titles that never reached profitability or were canceled, some have personal reasons to be vindictive. I feel badly that they made incorrect assumptions that led to ill-feelings and anger. I have, at different times, reached out to each of these people to explain the specifics of their situation. Some go away with an understanding; others do not. Because they disagree with the written terms of the contract or have a different interpretation of the events, does not make me a liar or a cheat. I will accept responsibility for not better managing a creative’s expectations, but each is made fully aware of all possibilities. I have never withheld a penny from any creative who was due payment.
There are also allegations regarding previous businesses in which I have been involved. It is true that TidalWave Productions declared bankruptcy in 2003. Many make assumptions and unbased claims as to why this happened; and all are wrong. The simple truth is that TidalWave could not sustain based on certain partners reneging on contracted terms. At the time, the company was a part-time endeavor and I worked a standard 9-to-5 job. This employment situation was also true with Bluewater until 2008. But the bottom line is people with no knowledge of the company’s administration, creative process or financial status make ill-informed or assumptive comments on some forum or blog that are treated as the gospel truth. This is how reputations get trashed.
Every business has its detractors. And people will believe what they choose. But despite the allegations, accusations, heresay, childish name-calling and angry gossip, Bluewater remains committed to producing quality comic books and graphic novels. It remains steadfast in its current business model of profit-sharing with a variety of talented creatives. And I remain resolute that Bluewater is, and shall continue to be, a reputable business that operates with integrity.
In light of your article, Bluewater offers this formal statement.
Recently Bluewater has endured a series of attacks regarding its business practices. Bluewater does not engage or condone any such underhanded or untoward activity and refute each and every allegation made against the company and me personally. Much of the perceived conflict comes from a handful of creatives who became disenchanted over the terms of their signed agreements and mistakenly believe they are owed compensation.
Because Bluewater is a small company, our business model is such that artists, writers, and colorists are paid if and when a property (single issue or trade paperback) becomes profitable. When prospective creatives are engaged to work on a property, they are informed of this up front and are asked to review the terms in the written contract. There is no coercion; no strong-armed tactics, no manipulating industry novices. When a book reaches profitability, defined by a specific number of sales, the creatives are paid according to the percentages contained in their contract.
It is unfortunate that not every book Bluewater publishes has reached the profitability threshold. Some, in fact, never sell more than 800 copies. Some are canceled by our national retail distributor Diamond. And some are not fit for publication because they do not meet a professional standard. But that is the risk Bluewater and the creative accepts. I respect the labor these artists, writers and colorists put into creating a title, and am more than willing to share in the profits. However, if a book does poorly, it is Bluewater that absorbs the overwhelming majority of the loss. Yes, there is a risk on behalf of the creatives as well, but they at least have a professional entry for their portfolio that can use to get other jobs in the industry.
It is also unfortunate that certain media types have questioned Bluewater’s credibility because they have chosen to take situations out of context or accuse the company of manipulating sales figures. This, of course is impossible, since the sales figures of every issue are a matter of record on the ICV2 site.
I understand that our business model is not for everybody. I understand that there are some people who feel they have been misled or cheated. However, every single person who is owed money that is contractually due has been paid. Many of the creatives noted in the articles that allege non-payment do not state fully why payments were not rendered. Some were fired from books for non-performance, some worked on titles that never reached profitability or were canceled, some have personal reasons to be vindictive. I feel badly that they made incorrect assumptions that led to ill-feelings and anger. I have, at different times, reached out to each of these people to explain the specifics of their situation. Some go away with an understanding; others do not. Because they disagree with the written terms of the contract or have a different interpretation of the events, does not make me a liar or a cheat. I will accept responsibility for not better managing a creative’s expectations, but each is made fully aware of all possibilities. I have never withheld a penny from any creative who was due payment.
There are also allegations regarding previous businesses in which I have been involved. It is true that TidalWave Productions declared bankruptcy in 2003. Many make assumptions and unbased claims as to why this happened; and all are wrong. The simple truth is that TidalWave could not sustain based on certain partners reneging on contracted terms. At the time, the company was a part-time endeavor and I worked a standard 9-to-5 job. This employment situation was also true with Bluewater until 2008. But the bottom line is people with no knowledge of the company’s administration, creative process or financial status make ill-informed or assumptive comments on some forum or blog that are treated as the gospel truth. This is how reputations get trashed.
Every business has its detractors. And people will believe what they choose. But despite the allegations, accusations, heresay, childish name-calling and angry gossip, Bluewater remains committed to producing quality comic books and graphic novels. It remains steadfast in its current business model of profit-sharing with a variety of talented creatives. And I remain resolute that Bluewater is, and shall continue to be, a reputable business that operates with integrity.
Well I just hope that the action in Spiderman does not become overly friendly with the whole Disney theme. Marvel Spiderman comics were meant to be cool and filled with action and not a whole lot of oh Im sorry I wont hit you, here is a spider net like the one you use to see on electric company instead. lol
Good freakin’ review. Yeah Alex really is all over the place. That is my distant twin brother from two other mothers who later decided to become lovers before separating from one another then finding an oppisite other….lol.
Anyways. I support this guy and we try to motivate each other and hopefully one day in the future we’ll become Kevin Smith and Frank Miller (being that these two are involved in comics and film) and set across from each other laughing about old times while a nice pretty young intern brings us coffee.
He’s keeping things moving at Approbation headquarters while I’m trying to stay a float over at Dream Realm Ent studios. (SAME STUDIO!) Lol. Hopefully in the near future the comics and film pays off and we’ll all be reconized and rewarded for our long overnight hours we’ve put in over the years, while preaching to newcomers how we got started. I hope our projects become way bigger than us both and then we’ll know for shure that all the agony, frustration, blood, sweat, and beers has finally paid off. Until then, we’ll keep pooring our hearts and creative mental juices into everything we do. Thank you all for staying by our sides and thank you Alex for being a close friend and mentioning me in such an entertaining interview.
-Ant’juan “Avri Apocalypse”.
Founder of Dream Realm Entertainment.
Thanks, Richard. I’m so excited this one will finally come out. It was just a lot of fun.
Bobby
gharms on
September 8th, 2009 11:53 pm
I love the book! It was my first exposure to books from Radical Comics, those boys and girls are producing some quality work. Loved the whole package:art, colors, letters and story!
g-
[...] That’s what Steve Surman at Comic News Info has to say about issue #3 of WE KILL MONSTERS. You can read his whole review here: http://comicnews.info/?p=9395 [...]
Bryan Chonto on
September 27th, 2009 3:27 am
This Surman guy is such a clown…I don’t understand why Comic News still cuts him a check every month. Aren’t there any real journalists they could get to fill his position?
Randy82 on
October 2nd, 2009 4:35 am
Cool review, I’m still waiting on my metal slip version from BestBuy to get here. I hope the series does return some day. We can’t be left with a cliff hanger like that.
[...] mentioned a couple of different related Forty-Five books that you’d like to produce. It might be a little early to ask but is there any further news at this [...]
[...] “Jon and Kate Plus Eight” has become just “Kate Plus Eight” (refresh your memory with my review of the first issue, and Joel McHale has his own show on network television. But, has “Incarnate,” the vampire [...]
So dude doesn’t have female children…and he probably should have thought about that angle before writing this because well, kind of makes him sound like an idiot.
In response to the above post by Mjar, this article is about nurturing reading habits in _children_, not in male children only. Though the author’s example uses a son as the child learning to read, the overall point of the article is still valid for both genders. Both boys and girls can, and should read comics. The implication that girls don’t read comics is completely false.
Mike Wikan on
January 8th, 2010 11:26 pm
I like it fine enough WITH this caveat.
The closer it gets to a human silhouette, the more it looks like a set of Super Powered Pajamas. It is losing the fact that it is Armor and makes its abilities Less believable and more as if it is inimical to Stark as opposed to the machine.
Then again I miss the Old Armor he fought Sunfire the first time in (With the pointy mask) back in the late 70s, lol.
Even “church ladies” would have no choice but to find this movie hilarious I expected this movie to be extremely bad (as in not funny) but was pleasantly surprised.
I don’t know either…it’s like someone is following the logic of: Superman – great. Batman – great. Therefore: Superman and Batman – great. But if we were to follow this logic, we would also have to enjoy meat with chocolate and other great – great combinations…
[...] case you missed it alert! Richard Caldwell has provided his newest column The Lottery Party: Past of Future Days. We’ve also got the latest from Nicholas P. Myers, The Tree House:The Zen of Comics or Why I [...]
Wow and i thought i was crazy, crazy because i do the same thing. Although reading this you and I have very little differences as of “how to get new ideas”. I’v not done any comics/mangas yet but i have started many ideas with this format. All in all thanks for showing me that the way I have been doing it is not wrong. Because i was looking for a new way.
IceSamurai From HavenComics
WM-
Thanks IceSamurai. It’s good to know that there’s other crazy people out there.
The Legion news is horrible! I was really excited about seeing what writer Jim Shooter had planned, considering he started in comics, like, 40 years ago designing covers for the book.
Bring it back, Didio!
I’ve always enjoyed Jim Shooters work. I just could never get into the Legion books regardless of who was writing them. It’s a DC thing I guess, having grown up on Marvel titles I’ve always found it difficult to get into DC Comics, with the exception being Batman and Superman, and the times I’ve enjoyed those two titles are pretty far and between.
I wrote to former X-scribe Scott Lobdell for his take. He responded:
“I fear your DAYS article mixes apples and oranges however.
DAYS never had anything to do with the X-Traitor storyline, which was not introduced until BISHOP arrived some ten years later…
… and the BISHOP/XSE storyline just barely barely barely accomodates the DAAY OF FUTURE PAST storyline. (Though one would argue that the events of DAYS OF FUTURE PAST’s travel into our present PREVENTED the DAYS OF FUTURE PAST from happening.. which then allowed for the XSE.)
And while the TRAITOR storyline was buried at for a number of years, Mark Waid addressed it in a very tortured display of storytelling and ‘revealed’ that — impossibly enough – it was Bishop himself who was the traitor.
Does this help?”
Thank you, Scott.
Still- I was familiar with the Waid story, though the XSE bit does put a different light on my whim. Still, Charlie’s being the number one psyche means that no other psyches could ever really gage his limits. I am probably wrong though.
Years of dwelling on stories written over weeks or less can lead one to oversee semantics.
[...] In case you missed it alert! Richard Caldwell has provided his newest column The Lottery Party: Past of Future Days. We’ve also got the latest from Nicholas P. Myers, The Tree House:The Zen of Comics or Why I Do the Things I Do. [...]
[...] Tomm Gabbard Interview. [...]
Great Interview!
Sam Henderson, you are at the very pinochle of culture. Grapenut abun, and beyond the call of duty. Excelsior!
[...] going to pimp my own site for a bit…I am allowed to do that you know! Awesome interview with Sam Henderson…Don’t know who Sam Henderson is? Then read the interview conducted by Richard Caldwell. [...]
[...] Since I mentioned Richard Caldwell, now would be a great time to tell you to check out his latest column. Check out his latest column! There, I told [...]
[...] original here: Comic Book Review: ‘The Chair’ Graphic Novel This entry was written by admin, posted on October 19, 2008 at 11:36 pm, filed under graphic [...]
While I am sadly one of those schmucks that could never fully appreciate Legion, I am crestfallen to see a Jim shooter project fail. I will forever be grateful to Jim for bringing the Valiant universe to life.
Legion’s biggest problem was the fact it was released during all of the Crisis hullabaloo. Dido put all of his eggs into one basket, most likely as a Hail Mary against Secret Invasion.
Good, bad or indifferent the simple reality is that no new title had a real chance during all of the shake up.
[...] can’t seem to get enough Incredible Hulk news lately and with the recent release of the DVD there has been quite a bit of chatter regarding everyones favorite green goliath. Earlier in the [...]
Jaymes brings up some great points. A comic can be the grooviest thing sense trigonometry, but if the publisher fails to perform its own designated function, then who would know?
One thing I noticed about reading pdf’s of comics is how easy it is to lose page count. It becomes hard to gage just how quickly/slowly the pacing of the story progresses.
All in all, Jaymes is clearly a hack and needs to hang up his pencil.
Hey! I read that!
Now we need some FF cartoons featuring Herbie the Robot!
[...] to pimp our own. Jaymes Reed wrote not one, but two pretty awesome columns this week. Digital-CAPtionS – Mayhem #1-3 Digital-CAPtionS – Kill the [...]
face it, mary jane- you just hit the jackpot!
Rich,
Damn fine points. I can sympathize with those that love “good” manga, even though I can’t empathize because personally I hate it.
I made that well known in my review of the current Runaways over on Ain’t It Cool News.
I still precariously place each title in a polybag with board and then update my database. This is more for a historical archive than necessarily the value I will one day get from them. Hey, I love comics, I can’t treat them like trash.
Yes, Liefield’s time has coem and gone. I hope he enjoyed the ride.
Rob (Optimous Douche)
On CyberComics there are some real gems and some real trash. One overarching thing that must be rectified though foor teh Web comcis to ever ghave a true life is the reading interface. PDFs ain’t the way to go. Flash is porbably best like they do on Zuda.
ComicNews.Info supports this post!
My comics, like my books, I treasure for the windows they have given me over the years. I respect them in a manner, but I do not worship them. Material possessions are material possessions.
I am hopeful for Zuda, but considering DiDio’s taste for bananas I am not holding my breath.
And as Liefeld has managed to screw up every deadline in the past 15 or so years, now he finds validity by doing christian comics. God bless him, because nobody else will.
[...] to see a bigger variety of comics available. In a distantly related development, Richard Caldwell bemoans anyone creating comics for the web. He thinks it’s a waste of time and much prefers an actual comic book – look for the [...]
s.u.p.e.r. c.o.o.l.
I have heard stories of Art Adams being one of the nicest guys in the industry. G4 should broadcast a pay per view of the hanging, with proceeds going to the CBLDF.
And re:the Spirit- like with the Watchmen, as different as it may end up being from the source material, if it compels a few thousand readers into tracking down the comics, then mission accomplished. I think it is weird though, how Miller is completely shoving Eisner through his own personal filter. Still, I suspect this will be something better than Spiceworld.
and that 7-year old…wowzers and a half. li’l bastard.
This comic sounds absolutely brilliant.
Great review, Jaymes!
Good point about the Spirit, I did not think of it that way. Check out the latest LITG column over at CBR, the guy fessed up.
Very unique approach to creating a comic book. I would like to check this one out.
[...] Didio must have read last weeks edition of The Sunday Stroll where I mentioned something in regards to the lack of marketing that takes place over at DC because [...]
[...] out to this new comic book review site, http://www.comicreviewers.com, that myself(on a limited basis) and The Lottery Party’s Richard Caldwell will be contributing to. The site is pretty new and doesn’t offer much [...]
Excellent interview, Hearing that S.STEVEN STRUBLE’S work has found it’s way to the notice of JIM VALENTINO’S Shodowline is a great piece of inspiration to all of us independant creator’s that we too my reach a higher profile level with our creations and in doing so reach out to a wide target audience who will enjoy our work, all the best to him for the future.
Richard Ian Bird
Writer and Creator Home-Made Heroes
http://www.homemadeheroes.co.uk
Do you do blogroll exchanging? If you want to exchange links let me know.
Email me back if you’re interested.
[...] found another comic review site (via Comic News) that’s been publishing since mid October, Webcomic Overlook has a review of Sarah Zero and a [...]
[...] ComicsNews.info has an interview with the director of the upcoming ‘Wonder Woman’ direct-to-DVD animated movie. Click here for the [...]
This article is why I will bury bodies for you 8 days a week.
…and that bear was my father too!
Thank you. I’ll keep that in mind.
Thanks for the plug and giving me something more to read.
Well Mr. Reed,
You seem to have a lot to say about lettering. Have you extended an offer to Mr. Guinn to help him with his lettering? You have “been there before” so you “understand” what it’s like. Help him. Your review was god but it comes off as pompous and self-centered. Was the comic about you and your experience as a letterer? Help don’t hinder!
Mr. Guinn did not send me a way to contact him by email, so I couldn’t very well extend him anything. As for helping him, I’m not a teacher. But if he or anyone else has a question regarding lettering, I will gladly assist as much as I possibly can in giving an answer. I posted two links to places where tutorials are readily available, so I still don’t get where I’m not helping. My main complaints stand, though. Besides, I thought I WAS helping by reviewing the book and bringing attention to it? I wasn’t picking on Mr. Guinn or trying to hinder his letterer… he sent the books to ME for an honest review, and I did the best I could with it based on what I felt at the time I wrote. I talk a lot about the letters because I know a good bit about lettering. Not to say I’m the best there ever was, but I do recognize when I’m NOT seeing it.
excellent first effort.
welcome to the team, Philip!
[...] is what I loved about Secret Invasion, characters we thought were dead were really alive. Secret Invasion not only presented one of the [...]
dang, too bad they didn’t bring back Thomas Jane to be Frank Castle again
Hawkeye and Mockingbird were a cooler version of Green Arrow and Black Canary to my preteen worldview back when. I am geek enough to know that the panel is from Solo-Avengers #1, and is early work by Jim Lee!
Resurrections of these two characters in particular are a big reason for my willingness to give Marvel a second glance again.
Very good catch my friend.
Of course now they’re saying R.I.P. wasn’t really “the end.” The END end will take place during Final Crisis.
I always thought conclusion meant, well, conclusion. I planned on talking abit about this in my next Stroll.
By the way, I really enjoy your blog. Very entertaining! Your writing is top notch!
Yeah, so did I.
Thank you very much!
My original post must have been lost during the server switch. Not sure how or why. This looks like a condensed version of what I originally wrote. Hmmmmm…I hate when that happens.
We must now add as well Majel Roddenberry, who has been reunited at last with husband Gene.
Majel was an actress and producer who was much beloved by sci-fi fans the world over.
I’ve been looking forward to this movie for a while. They are doing a remake in the states. Lets see how that turns out?
Eartha Kitt. Singer, dancer, and actress, a cat losing its ninth life is a sad thing to see.
I watched the 1st installment of the CardBoard Gods Comic and must agree with your praise.
[...] READ THE ENTIRE INTERVIEW HERE ! [...]
Great interview!
I’m very interested in reading more anecdotes about creators getting their start in the 80’s and 90’s and where they are now. It seems a lot of pros have left the industry but have come back to it for “love of the game”.
[...] To read this review at Comic News, click on the following link: http://comicnews.info/?p=2682 [...]
[...] To read this review at Comic News, click on the following link: http://comicnews.info/?p=2932 [...]
[...] Gary Rodrigue has some good goals for the big comic pubishers. [...]
If you have questions or comments for this writer, you may contact him at Steven.Surman@gmail.com
A very good review.
Atula
[...] To view this article as it originally appeared at Comic News, please click on the following link: http://comicnews.info/?p=3002 [...]
This was a lot of fun. My interview ran Jan. 2.
Bobby
cool changuagua , nice work dude
I think this is probably the most insisive review I have read regarding the state of DC & Marvel — BRAVO!!
And your argument basically boils down to “I don’t like these writers! I would do it entirely different!” which, in all honesty, isn’t even an argument but merely a fanboy bitching about how his ideas for the direction of the companies are so much better.
You don’t even hit on the state of these companies, and it’s obvious you don’t even base your “arguement” on facts. It’s all conjecture, making this a complete waste of my time.
worst article ever.
hell, the review made me giggle. great work, Phil!
[...] This article originally appeared on January 15, 2009 on Comic News. To view its original publication, please visit Comic News by clicking on the following link: http://comicnews.info/?p=3161 [...]
Great insights, looking forward to more!
I really enjoyed this interview. Studio 407 consistently proves themselves with each new title they release. Can’t wait to see what’s next!
Glad that you enjoyed the interview. I am really enjoying everything that I have seen from Studio 407 thus far.
This is great as it gives comic book fans an insight into what goes on behind the scenes from a retailers perspective.
This blog is hilarious and so true. I love and agree with the paragraph about web comics. People who solely create digital comics are those who can’t use the internet properly to promote a real print.
If any defenders of DCD object to the monopoly comment, I advise a quick web search for distributors bought out by Diamond over the past few years.
Sagarnaga Cozman is una masa! He is really great! He is only second when compared to Juan Bobillo (who is the best artist since DaVinci).
Really looking-forward to The Spark!
Aguante Sagarnaga la puta que lo pario.
Thanks Gary for the link.
So they aired it in front of millions last night during the Super Bowl yet they pull it from YouTube. That is soooo lame!
Hulu comes through for me and you!
This is a really great book and I totally agree with you Philip as far as wanting more.
Steven,
Hi a few years back you interviewed us about Spiralmind. Well we finally completed Issue #1 “Rabbi’s Lament” You can check it out by going to our myspace. We also did an interview in El Paso Magazine which can be also googled. Hey thanks so much for your support back when we had nothing.
I’m ALL for this. Love Bats.
As long as they keep it as real I’m cool with as many Batman films that Warners wanna through at us.
What I’d love to see is a Dark Knight Returns film. I’m sure Nolan would probably call it quites after a third film so maybe bring in Zach Snyder to direct a few.
Just realized it is PUGH and not FUGH. Sorry, everyone.
Does anyone have any comics that they want me to include in my columns? I am open to giving anything a try.
How about some Shadowline love?
You is one lucky son of a gun!
I missed that PUGH, FUGH, looks too much alike…I need to gets me some glasses.
Looks like Radical missed this too since they put a snippet of the review up on their board.
Arcana, Studio-407, Radical to name a few.
Thank you for the wonderful review, Richard! The time and attention you gave to reading my stories is appreciated!
Well give me some specific names of titles and I will order them and put them in the article. I prefer trades or graphic novels at this point to be the focal point of the article. Floppies will also be in the weekly article but as the secondary book. So let me know what you want checked out.
Marvel’s entire line will be at the 3.99 level before the year is through. duh. There are plenty of ways to cut their costs, but their board is only in this game for the money that fans are indeed dumb enough to blow. Yes, the fans do share the blame. Even with the higher pricing, their books will still rate number one sellers, because people are generally apathetic and retarded little zombie robot monkeys.
Dance, zombie robot monkeys, dance!
Do a little dance, buy a little book, make Marvel rich..make Marvel rich.
No, it is the fault of the fan. $3.99 books continue to sell out and Marvel knows this so why not jump at the chance to make some bucks. Hell, if Marvel didn’t see this as an opportunity then the powers that be should be looking for employment elsewhere.
Of course, I say this without even knowing what their overall expenses are when publishing comics. Hell, for all we know they may only be making minimal profit from this price increase.
Either way, I cannot spend $3.99 on a comic. You have to draw the line somewhere.
I like the output, just not the corporation behind it.
Yes, I am thrilled at what the Bendis-beast has breathed into the Avengers line. I think their mixes of indie writers with foreign artists are making for some of their best product ever.
Does it justify the modern pricing?
Way back, under Jim Shooter’s reign, when Marvel was first exploring the direct market venue, they actually did a number of polls to see what fans thought. Considering the online presence maintained by numerous Marvel staffers, it would be even easier today to accomplish the same effort.
If they really wanted to satisfy and keep costs low, cut the reprint books. If it’s worth re-packaging, then save it for the trade audience. There is a multitude of paper grades to choose from, many of which are perfectly adequate and cheaper still. Minimalize superstar fees. And Marketing! There are far smaller companies who can successfully market their product without the costly inundation of current practices.
I have spent no money on a Marvel book in awhile, and I see no point in starting now. Not without a fourth job.
Will my actions make a difference? Nope, but at least I can be guilt free.
Let the execs pay for their hookers and blow some other way. I’d rather support folks who I can identify with.
How did I miss the great Jim Mooney?
Gary,
I totally agree that these independent artists should be getting the center spotlight as well. Thanks for acknowledging this fact.
Belkis…no problem at all. Your doing a great think by providing these guys a spotlight.
I just realized that I didn’t do much better than the Con organizers, I threw that link way too far down the page. Good thing for revisions.
“Most of the great graphic novels are gone”
Boy, he sure knows his comics.
This is interesting though. I would much rather see Ratner do Youngblood than his purported Conan re-imagining.
And I hereby throw my hat in the ring to play Troll!
hahahaha. this book was so bad. perfect for the rat. Harbinger is a million times better, he should have stuck to that!
Great news and great property. This has potential
I enjoyed this book when it first came out but quickly lost interest. I would welcome it to the big screen though.
I endorse this 10,000,000%.
i’ve been reading gingerdead for almost two years. calan comes up with great ideas and haikus in a thoughtful, amusing and completely original way. great choice for a column, richard!
[...] next instalment of Fetch me a top hat is up over at [...]
Great interview. Warlord was one of the few Dc comics i had random issues of in my collection as a kid. Green Arrow : Long Bow Hunters though, i read and re-read over and over. Really good interview.
The most retarded thing I have ever heard. Jesus, you really think that they’re dumb enough to retire the Joker from film and the television because of one man’s overrated performance in a pretty good film. Retire a whole character?
You’ve got to be joking. You have to be joking. Or on crack. If they do this, I will shun DC for even allowing it, then kill the fans for making them do it. Morons… Just moronic.
Not retiring forever, obviously. There are plenty of other yet-unused villains from the Bat-mythos they could bring to film.
Comics, of course, should continue regardless. This is about honoring the Art of Ledger’s performance. By the time the Joker’s turn cycles back into play, we will likely be seeing the next version of a film franchise at hand anyhow. This Joker however, out of respect, should remain untouchable.
I’m not very impressed with the look of “The Fallen”.
I didn’t have the comics but I had the toys.
honestly they cant retire the joker from the movies hes always been there to mess with batman and give him hell sure heath ledger did an amazing job, but im sorry if they dont put the joker in the next batmans no one will want to watch them hes the ultimate villain for batman, without him batman would have had no success as a comic book or movie, all i say is see if you can find someone that can live up to the hype
That’s okay, though. “Dark Knight” was good enough to keep us happy until then.
As someone with a subscription to that Digital Comics thing I can honestly say: If that’s the future of comics, I’m going to stop reading comics. They need to look at how people who download torrents and the like look at comic books on the computer, see what people actually like about those formats.
If comics did go all digital I would also be done with them. I do not enjoy reading comics on the computer. It’s simply not the same.
They like that its FREE, everyone love FREE stuff..even i do.
The disscusion continues over at Whitechapel with Warren Ellis commenting on the article.
http://freakangels.com/whitechapel/comments.php?DiscussionID=5031&page=1#Item_8
In respect to any future actor trying to do the Joker in a Batman movie: You will always be compared to H Ledger and you will go down in flames. Sorry but it is a fact. No one could catch the villains madness, the characters whole spectrum like it was done in the dark knight. So for my ten cents: It can not be done better.
/ Tommy “Nusse 2″
my timbers are shivered.
I’m sure I’m in the minority but I don’t think I liked this story. Maybe I’ll go back and read it again since it has been awhile since I last read it. Second time arounds usually change my opinion of things.
Great review, I’ll check this one out.
I am with you on Eliza Blunt. She definitely can bring the bad girl image to play.
Correction on the last comment. I mean Emily Blunt.
Web comics are pointless. You make a great point about them not capitalizing on the comic book movies hype that has been going on for the past 8 years or more. You also make a good point about them not advertising comic books via other ways besides in other comics, pretty funny if you think about it. They could really be doing things with kids and schools and tv, etc. I see what your saying 100%.
Thanks Andrew, i know there is a huge pro printed comic book audience out there, obviously. Over at whitechapel, as far as digital comics are concerned i definitely hit on some points like the apples to oranges comparison that is always made to the music industry. The only date that is comparable, i should have covered here in the column.
What i meant to say above, i covered the data that would be relevant in that comparison, which is that 95% of the music downloaded is through illegal file sharing or other non legal means.
People should be reading Radical’s books, plain and simple. Every book that I have read from this publisher has been top notch. I don’t know what else you could ask for from a comic book company.
Things used to be different. Anyone else remember the Stan Lee-voiced teevee commercials for the original G.I.Joe comics?
As far as marketing and promotions go, I think a big cause right now is the fact that the larger publishers are bringing in persons with minimal, if any, background in comics. From Avi Arad to Bill Jemas, they had legitimate elsewhere, with other businesses, but come on-
had Dan Dildio ever honestly even READ a comic book before he was brought into the Dc fold?
With the inappropiate backgrounds, they just do not understand the medium enough to be able to move it properly. Hardcore fans are confounded, retailers are left hanging.
I just walked into Collector’s Corner to add a couple of REAL comics to my pull list, not have a retailer upload a digital version of my titles onto a F**kin thumb drive! Don’t get me wrong, I have read quite a few digitals before. Only because I was curious about a few books and didn’t feel like wasting my money on something I might not like. To me digitals are strickly a “GATEWAY” into the world of REAL comics!
As far as Ellis’ Freakangels, it’s a great concept that I really like. Life just gets in the way, as well my impatience getting the better of me. I want to read a mini series or a whole story arch, not 8-10 panels.
Quesada = Douche
Bendis = Douche
Ellis = Internet Jesus
Real Comics = Priceless
Just read the stuff on Whitechapel, it was entertaining as hell with Warren,Brian, and Paul. Kinda cool Ellis commented on my opinion too.
Like we talked about tonight @ the “Corner”, Randy- comics, inherently, create art to tell a story.
In my personal opinion, a digital expression of that medium will never equate the tactile experience of holding, reading, and (finally) owning a comic book. There is a reason why “collectors” still keep our books in bags, boards, and boxes even knowing that these libraries won’t bring the wealth people thought the would back in the early nineties. We keep it for the paper- literally, because we can hold a book and have art in our hands from the cover to the last page (not counting the advertisement).
I appreciate that some (the entire Marvel hierarchy apparently) think that we are all moving into an unavoidable digital age, but I believe the “comic” stands as an entertainment medium partly defined by its printed nature. Take away the paper, and you take away what has makes a comic book- well, a comic book.
Batwoman as a lesbian equates in my mind as lazy writing. Honestly, in this day and age, should this really be an issue? Same with a character’s voting record- why the hell sum up an individual by a singular trait? Unless as you say, fans can expect an all-out girl on girl action extravaganza via the reworked Birds of Prey, then why bother? (take THAT, Mary Marvel!)
Like the awesome line from Batman Begins-
“It’s not who you are, but what you DO that matters.”
Is that how that line from Batman goes? All this time I thought the line read like this, “It’s not who you are, but WHO you DO that matters.” Now I feel like such an ass. Thanks for setting me straight.
A lot of it is controversy for controversy’s sake. Some of it is Political correctness and diversity being enforced through their line. If it sells well or gets coverage, its a good thing. Well diversity is always a good thing, in my summation, political correctness, never for me. I do wonder how much of this is pushed through editorially, i think DC should focus on better quality books over quantity, which could set them apart from marvel and gain them more readers.
[...] few days ago we reported that Eliza Dushku threw her hat in the ring, expressing interest in the role. Eliza went as far as asking fans to start a campaign calling for [...]
Marvel is doing one thing right with digital comics: they give you the seven page teaser. A teaser is meant to get you interested in a book so that you want to pick it up. That’s why when you go to the movies you have to sit through twenty minutes of previews. Give us teasers of new and future releases, build our hype, and you increase revenue.
That being said, I generally do not read the free online comics, for much the same reason that the other posters said: It’s a pain in the rear. Even with a good sized screen, it’s not the same, and having to scroll the page, click for the next page, etc. is distracting. And god forbid you missed something and want to flip back a couple of pages for clarification. No thanks, give me paper.
Bottom line for me is, if they think that digital comics are genuinely the “way of the future”, then fine. Do your homework and make a good product. But if you are trying to save a few bucks or increase profit, think again.
Slight correction: The first person on the left if Kevin Colden (Fishtown GN, I Rule the Night on Zuda). Johnny Zito, Tony Trov and Sacha Borosich from Black Cherry Bombshells were all there, just a leetle bit further to the left of Kevin. I was there, too, but got to the panel late and didn’t want to be standing behind Ron and the podium (not that I had anything constructive to add to the proceedings, just saying, is all.)
I have heard of many of the so called solutions, to growing an audience in the digital marketplace. Free content is king online, so anyone making a living in comic books from writers to artists and cover artists, should really evaluate, the many pros and cons of of pushing digital comics as the next evolution of the industry.There simply are more disadvantages to comic books in the digital realm than in print, there are supposedly viable ways to collect readers money from viewing comics online but no one has figured out how to do that in other entertainment ventures online, music and such. Most people only like it because it is free, where a parent or even younger kids will still want to hold a book in their hands instead of yet another piece of technology that removes reader from the complete experience and makes it wholly disposable. kids loved Pokemon cards, Yugi-oh, and other trends that were not on a computer and they are still around. the issue is comic book publisher’s either don’t really try to reach kids, or don’t care. If your giving a kid an option on his hand held device to ask his parent to pay 99 cents for a comic issue read one time or buy him another $50.00 game he will play for weeks or hours, what will he choose 9 times out of 10/ The columnist hit the nail on the head. I work in the IT field, and i prefer paper. Paper is so important to the art of comic books and how they are made, from pencil on art board to paper through the printers, i think it will be more of a challenge and a step in the wrong direction for Publisher’s to assume they will increase sales by trying to force this on fans.
I gave this one a read myself. Really a great sci-fi story, and the art is really wonderful – not in the superhero comic style at all.
Hey Randy,
Excellent article. I have to agree that digital comics seems like a bad idea and the money put towards it could be spent elsewhere. The points about too many books (20+ x-books, and the ever increasing Avengers titles) was valid as well. I also agree with the fact that the backstory for a lot of comics is a little unecessary. When I first got into comics I had to spend a lot of time on Wikipedia just to understand what the hell was going on. Great article.
I agree.
I never got the axiom “every man is an island”, as I think we are all meant to learn from each other.
How stale would the world be, without comparing notes so as to better it? And as big as the comics and entertainment industries are, how much more difficult would it be to gain entry, without learning from the mistakes of others?’
Granted, some of my friends are stupider than me, but then of course others are so talented, I hope to the Living Tribunal they are never desperate enough to take my ideas with a grain of salt.
Great first effort, Belkis!
[...] February 18, 2009 in Blogs! | Tags: “Missing the Boat”, ComicNews.info, Image Comics, interview, Shadowline Comics, The Roberts! …right here! [...]
You think people are ripping comics now (scanning the in and sharing them) just imagine how easy it will be when they are already in that’s format. Are there writers and artist that actually think this is a good idea? they better think again.
[...] Speaking of the Shady family, Justin, along with Erik Rose and Dwellephant, are interviewed at the Fourth Wall, talking about The Roberts and Missing the Boat. Also, Erik makes an appearance on the latest podcast at Around Comics. I’m a regular listener of Around Comics, and the last time Erik was interviewed did not go well, largely because the audio went wonky, and the recording was lost. Oh, and Justin has one of those old-fashioned interviews where you have to read at Comic News.info. [...]
Richard, I agree. We definitely need to learn through the mistakes of others. Thanks for reading and adding your comment.
Interesting comic. You’re right, quick read but great intrigue.
Ok, I just read this and wow. Very good comic. Can’t believe that it’s free.
[...] now leaves the door open for Scarlett Johansson to fill the void. A few weeks back it was reported that Johansson was is in talks to replace Blunt. Johansson met [...]
Looks like harmless fun.
Remember Ethan Van Sciver’s “Cyberfrog”? I think cyborg animals should be a genre unto itself.
dibs on the stegosaur.
Awesome, i agree…making memories in real life stores that last a lifetime will always trump chat room exchanges and forum posts. Most of my customers know each other and a lot of us do things outside of the store, sports leagues, wing nights, social events. You can’t put a price on that.
There use to be so many comic book stores when I was a kid. I really wasn’t into them but my brother was and therefore I did have some knowledge on what was going on. Now, there are a few shops still open at my hometown but not as many. I think comic book stores may not survive as a lot of comic creators are making the transition to webcomics. I don’t necessarily agree with this. Graphic novels and comic series belong in print form and because there is a lack of physical books, shops are disappearing.
Today I stepped foot inside of a comic shop for the first time in a very long time. It was great, the simple smell of the comic shop brought back memories. I felt like a kid in a candy store. Long boxes lined up every where. I easily wasted, wrong choice of words, I easily spent an hour and a half just sifting through the back issues. I could have spent all day in that shop and thought nothing of it. The shop owner was very polite and we talked comics, of course, it was great. She was telling me how in the late 90’s there were about 8 shops located in the area, she is the only one left. I really miss having a local shop to call my own.
I don’t think this is a matter of old timers being resistant to change. Stores- even chains, are still moving more product than any online service.
The larger publishers and DCD seem insistant on pursuing/pushing specific methods, specific brands, and are increasingly caught up in the wishful thinking that a life can be lived via the computer- even if the by far greater half of readers are denied access to the club by the joys of blue-collar living.
In a broader sense, there is the ongoing argument as to whether or not technology itself is dehumanizing us. Don’t get me wrong, I know what medium is carrying this article. I still believe that the more visceral you can take from the experience, the better. Ignoring the power that the direct market still wields is absurd. We live in a time now where anything more than ten minutes old is considered archaic. Just because something has some age to it, tried and true even, does not make it obsolete. Techno-fetishism is only an unhealthy distraction. It will never be a legit challenger to the throne. It can have a place, but betting all of your money on a system with more variables than what we have the more experience with is NOT thinking ahead. It is gambling. Even more absurd, as the economic crisis will not be resolved in the years to come.
As such, it would be safer for the industry, as well as more cost efficient, to keep healthy what we already have.
I like rambling.
Are U NUTZ??? The last and final Movie is still to come.
The Origin of the Joker a.k.a. “The Man Who Laughs”.
In the Origin of the “The Man Who Laughs,” the joker is a young lad and a pathetic victim instead
of his usual role as a villain. In this moving melodrama he had a dual role, starring as both
Gwynplaine (The Man Who Laughs), and also as Lord Clancharlie, Gwynplaine’s father, a Scottish
nobleman who has rebelled against King James II in 17th-century Britain. As Lord Clancharlie is
being placed for execution in the notorious “Iron Maiden,” he asks what will be done with his son,
Gwynplaine. King James’ cruel jester pulls the boys mouth apart in a grimace, and the king
understands that the young boy with a beaming, angelic smile will be given to a notorious band of
nomads, the Comprachicos.
The Comprachicos purposely disfigure the young boy by carving the corners of his mouth into a
fixed, hideous grin. As if what they have done turns into a bad Omen, the Comprachicos are exiled
from England, abandoning Gwynplaine in the English countryside during a severe snowstorm burning
his facial expression into a permanent one.
Plodding through the storm, the youngster comes across a baby girl in the arms of her frozen and
lifeless mother. Although the boy doesn’t have any reason to perpetuate acts of kindness due to
his practically shattered spirit, his heart goes out to this young child, and he rescues her. As
he plods through the howling storm with the baby in tow, they are saved by a small traveling
troupe of actors who are led by kindly philosopher, Ursus. Ursus is horrified when he sees
Gwynplaine’s disfigured face, and he realizes that the baby girl, Dea, is blind.
They are both adopted by the troupe, and years later Dea, has grown into a beautiful blind girl.
A romance of the heart, not of the eyes, develops between Gwyplaine and Dea. Gwynplaine, who has
now become a famous performing clown, is finally happy, and fate steps in when Gwynplaine discovers
he is heir to a peerage and is summoned back to London.
It is there that his life will take a fateful turn when the jester who had persuaded the king to
disfigure Gwynplaine and the queen, see an opportunity to continue their mind-twisted torture.
MAYBE THEN ALL WILL UNDERSTAND WHY JOKER LOST IT.
Here is a link that was just put up that allows you to read 100 pages of Edgar Allen Poo.
http://www.drunkduck.com/The_Surreal_Adventures_of_Edgar_Allan_Poo/
Nixing any one genre of comics will not save the industry, especially regarding the super heroes, which consistently make up the majority of sales.
Not everybody chooses to beat their supervillain while looking at pictures of guys in tights, but more power to them. If anything it is wonderful to meet someone else who must think that John Byrne is a complete hack.
As far as what to fill the void with, I myself am looking forward to Micah Gunnell’s new book from Aspen, which will be the first Aspen book I ever bought. Also, the new Doom Patrol, from Keith Giffen and Matthew Clark, and the new Warlord series from Mike Grell. The only Marvel that interests me in the slightest is Captain Britain, but they do not need my money. I promise each of these titles will be breakout hits in the next year.
Thanks for the suggestions. I forgot about the Gunnell book, that one is certainly worth checking out. The only Marvel books left in my pull are Captain America and Uncanny X-Men. I will admit that the first issue of Dark Avengers was a very good read. Everything else is just scattered about.
it must’ve been really close! those six hours or extra waiting were painful!
idiot kids always want the same thing over and over again and never happy with sequels…
there are actors out there who look like ledger who could take over the role and do it just like him. it wouldn’t be hard to replicate.
that kid from 3rd rock the tv show looks just like him and in a few years will be old enough to be cast as a look alike joker,can he pull off the same performace? maybe not but close enough,his face is exaCT!
he would look the same as heath did. i’m sure with coaching he could be the next joker. looks wize? he’s dead on.
but dont worry geeks! they wont use joker for batman 3,unless we get a quick glimps of him in arkam nuthouse for some odd reason,which i doubt. batman 3 will be a few years into the batman future where catwomen is obviously the next villian since they hinted at this in batman 2,the DK. since it could be the last batman i’m sure they will add in the riddler too and catwomen may end up helping batman in the end…
i still say they bring robin into the mix. if done serious,it could be done right. like some young teen hero who keeps following batman around and by chance saves his ass a few times,even tho batman tells him to beat it kid… it could work.
catwomen and riddler should be next… catwomen for sure.
I have not read Rex but it sounds like it is lacking motive in the character development department.
I enjoyed the Dark Tower novels from King but I could not for the life of me get into the comics. The Stand is one of my all time favorite stories from King but I have been hesitant to check out the comic until now, your review swayed me.
If I don’t like this book I’m holding you accountable Mr. Pierce.
Well……..um…………maybe you shouldn’t read it Gary.
J/K (God that is old)
I think you will like it, just pick up a trade if you can find a paper back.
I am not a big Matt Fraction fan anymore. I think it depends on the title, but his Uncanny has been sub par. Honestly it is a B class book now, unlike brubaker’s short run on the book that was absolutely amazing. I think Fraction is better on a solo book, i.e. Punisher: War Journal, and The Invincible Iron Man.
Uncanny X-Men has been one of the books that I have followed for a long time and I am not sold on Fraction just yet, as far as this title goes. I’m not yet ready to drop the book just yet but it does need to get better and fast.
I’m going to read this one later in the week. I don’t think I can handle heavy dialogue tonight. I’ll come back and share my thoughts with you once I read the book.
Oh, I still read some Marvel titles. But, I am becoming more and more stingy on what I read from Marvel, I don’t really read DC because the continuity is so convoluted.
[...] (source) [...]
You are all crazy, and this ultimate joker website is stupid. Warners is still hoping for chris nolan to continue with the franchise. If he does, its a pretty safe bet no actor will be reprising the role of the joker in the 3rd movie. After the unprecedented success of the dark knight, bet on not seeing a brett ratner type take over and shit on it. so you won’t see another joker in this series. nothing is for sure. someone might pull a nutty and do it. but i doubt it.
hollywood is not full of evil people. some are dumb, most like to turn a profit more than anything else, but with the amount of media surrounding the death of ledger, putting the paint on another dude, who’ll put on at best an imitated performance? that would be crazy. no way a producer or distributer at this level would take that kind of risk on what would be the studio’s tent pole film for that year.
Thank about all the acclaim nickleson got for his portrayal. it took almost 20 years before joker found his way back to the big screen and the man is still alive today.
cartoons, comics and tv series will always have their version of the character, but you won’t see the character on the big screen for at least another 20 years.
This sounds like a very interesting comic book. I have yet to read it but will do so very soon.
Silent Scream is a very good comic. I find it pretty cool how he took his Punisher story and implemented into SS. Good stuff!
I like how OpWound’s blogs are very open about sharing notes on the whole creative and self-publishing process.
They also have a cool interview series going, sort of shining light on creators of like-minded works.
They have fought their share of battles, but they by no means take their aggressions out on others. Any set-up that supports the health and education of all is super keen in my book.
If I had a book.
[...] comic book titles here at our store, Collectors Corner, would make for a lighter topic than the last column I wrote for ComicNews. I thought it would be cool to not only list the top 5 sellers at Collectors [...]
Fantastic review of an unbelievable well-conceived and executed book.
My nipples are already hard.
Honestly, I know this will be a fun read.
Haha. Too funny.
yay, another column by me. I survive on this site for another week.
I think I may be missing out by not reading this comic since I have heard nothing but praise from every review that I have read.
I read this book last night and it I was highly impressed. With Steve Niles writing it how can it not be a good book.
I love these “I’m a Marvel, You’re a DC” videos. This one is by far the best so far.
I am telling you, you will not be disappointed. I read trades 1-7 in a day. It just flows so easily. You can read these trades in about an hour. Well worth it Gary.
I’m working my way through the first four Preacher trades, once done with those I’ll look to pick up the first TWD trade.
Will be added to my buy pile.
Let me know what you think of it. I love Tony Moore’s art on the first arc.
Red Hulk is not a very good title,story wise, it started out with potential but has gone down hill very fast. It’s a shame really.
Of this series, the zombie girl with the yanked out teeth threw me for a loop.
Kirkman is almost as sick-O as me.
But isn’t that why you love the book so much? He does things that we would love to do in comics, but don’t think we could get away with.
Great spoiler free review! I’ll be heading to the theater tonight to check this one out.
?????????
Hmmmmmm…and that’s all I’ve got to say about that.
Awesome! Just watched the first one!
I’m glad to see the boys at #5. I can honestly say that if it wasn’t for your recommendation to the book, I probably wouldn’t have picked it up. I thank you for that.
Allow me to possibly upset some people: While I like the WATCHMEN book a great deal, it’s probably my least favorite Alan Moore story, predominantly because I don’t really care too much about superheroes outside of the fact that there are some I love when done well, but I’m not an absolute loyalist.
Moore writes his comics to be comics, not to secretly be movies, like the now-sellout Frank Miller. His mastery of panels is unparalleled, just as Grant Morrison’s mastery of anti-panels is unparalleled. The two writer really show their audiences what can be done with comics, just on opposite ends; and neither writer writes because they were rejected from filmmaking.
I have not seen the WATCHMEN movie yet, but I plan on it (if only to catch a glimpse of Billy Crudup’s blue penis). But I really mean this when I say that Zack Snyder is a hack. I’m not some upset fanboy who has his comics destroyed by someone that doesn’t get it, but as someone who sees his cheap tricks as a few hotkeys in Final Cut Pro and nothing more. Who (with a partially functional brain) really enjoyed 300? There were a few cool scenes, but the movie was boring and the slow motion effects were, cheap, overdone, and the worst forms of monotony. The dude is some worthless Hollywood fop. And from the previews I saw, it looks like this movie is filled with a lot of slow motion and music, so I can guess how it will go.
But I also know that there was a lot of hype around this movie being released, because when Hollywood makes a movie out of a comic (an easy thing to do because they treat comics as story board pre-made, even though they’re usually not) fanboys feel vindicated. “Oh, someone cool likes us now,” is what I sense from a lot of comic fans who feel their enjoyment of comics is shameful or embarrassing.
Hmm, I feel better now.
I won’t bash you for your comments because I tend to agree with much if not all of what you said.
I won’t spoil the movie for you but what you saw in the previews you mentioned is spot on and did make some scenes kind of awkward to look at.
I didn’t think 300 was that bad as far as the overall story goes. I did not like much of the effects though. I can’t say how it compared to the trade as I have yet to read it. The book has been sitting on my shelf since the film came out. One day I’ll get around to reading it.
Well, the 300 book is really short. It’s the first time that a book is *stretched* rather than shortened to save for time. I don’t know, the book was alright. It’s art was cooler than the story. Frank Miller is has strong feelings concerning military issues in the political paradigm. He’s very pro-war, and 300 is more or less his thesis on why war is important (and dare I say good, in his opinion?).
Zack Snyder (or whoever wrote the script) really stretched it out, but all of that political intrigue crap in Sparta was added in, along with a lot of the fight scenes.
I also heard that the ending of the movie was changed from the comic book, which is rather bogus because the bleak ending of the comic was the whole point of Moore’s message.
Again, I am trying not to be a feral fanboy, but rather a concerning intellectual who doesn’t like to see material dumbed down to make wider (and dumber) audiences happy or less sad.
[...] over here. posted by JP at 5:00 am [...]
I think this is very foolish. I don’t think The Fantastic Four can be successful as a more mature book. I think it is better suited for children. If it is to become more of a mature read, then it must be done when the rights go back to Marvel.
That is too hilarious!
You rock Jeremy, April is so excited for you, good job!!!!!!!
Great column!
I won’t name names either but I can certainly relate to what you are saying and I’m sure you know what or who I am speaking of in some regards. Of course there have been others, quite a few actually. I will say from running this site, at times I feel like a piece of meat.
At NYCC, I sat in on a panel about where a lot of writers went back and forth on the craft of writing…
I think it’s important to write what you know, but it’s more important to write about what you like. I’ve met a lot of people who almost feel obligated to write the next great American novel, but they clearly don’t like what they’re trying to do.
It’s really important to experiment, in both fiction and nonfiction. Take a chance and raise an eyebrow.
Also, forget that nonsense about writing every day. I remember years ago I read a column by Brian Vaughan, and he stressed a lot that it’s important to write every day. While I think its important to always process and churn new ideas, sometimes the muse just isn’t biting in the ass and it won’t come.
Also, your point about communication is really important. While I’ve never had anyone hound me to do an interview or write a review (I wish!), it’s so important to treat sources with respect. If you’re writing a beat, such a comics on this site, you want people you can return to who will help you with a smile.
or at least a reacharound!
I do support the idea of writing every day. Of course not every piece will be Shakespearian, but the practice does help to overcome any technical flaws, and the constant experimentation with wordplay can help define the voice. Natural skill alone can rarely make up for lacking technical know-how.
or to mirror my opening line- a writer who does not write is not a writer.
Rest in peace, Michael Turner.
In response to Joshua N. Pierce’s review of The Chair:
I just wanted to give you my take on why the lettering varied throughout the story. My reading was that Sullivan is not entirely living in reality, but rather his head. At times I even wondered if he was even in prison at all, or if this was going to be one of those “bad nightmare” stories! Anyways, I took it that the lettering was done in multiple fonts, colors, etc was to show that difference between what was ACTUALLY happening vs. what Sullivan (clearly crazy) THOUGHT was happening. Then I think it changes entirely at the end because the truth of what is really going on is finally revealed, showing the reader again a psychological shift.
But that was just my take! Who knows if I am even right or not!
[...] You can look at my weekly column “Should you be reading this?” for my views on volume one of American Terror. Now, I have not changed my mind on the story, to the [...]
No, Rick you could definitely be correct. I never say that my take is always RIGHT for everyone, I only say that this is my opinion. I appreciate your comment and I will take it into consideration. Just so you know though, I did really enjoy the read. It was well executed with a great pace, and I don’t think you should ignore the story telling aspect because you didn’t like a few things about the book. Comic Books are Books after all and we should read them for what the story offers.
Comic Book Review: Witchblade #125…
One of the longest-running series in comics reaches a milestone: 125 issues and still going strong! There’s no better way to mark this occasion than with the start of the biggest Witchblade story arc ever!…
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I have been waiting for this for YEARS. Now I can DIE HAPPY!!!! Mwhahahahaha!
[...] Original post: » Blog Archive » STAR TREK Official Movie Prequel Comic Boldly … [...]
I’m pretty stoked about this myself. Always enjoyed this cartoon.
I’ve been wanting to comment on your subject since it went live but am just now getting to it.
In the beginning I used to go the cheap route with advertising, hitting sites that offered low cost advertising. I quickly learned that I was wasting money because although the ads were cheap those sites were not bringing in much traffic which equaled to a very low number of click-throughs to my site.
I then decided to take the money that I was putting into cheap advertising and throw it at a site that charged more to advertise on but received a huge amount of traffic. The payoff was a nice increase in traffic to my site, which I didn’t see when I was advertising on six different low traffic sites.
I mean no disrespect to this title because Hellboy has always been an interesting read but the artwork, it kills it for me.
I think this is a great idea. Now let’s expand on the titles that will be distributed via newsstand and I’ll be a happy camper.
This is fantastic, through and through.
I have fond memories of 10-year old me stealing comics from the gas station. Now a whole new generation can share in that illicit joy.
Really- way to go, Boom!
I really miss walking into a convenience store, supermarket, or drug store and seeing the spinner rack full of comics. Those were the good old days. I don’t understand why publishers can’t go back to doing that. I think it would do good as far as bringing in new readers.
Unfortunately or fortunately however you see things, some of Ditko’s ideas his writing of the Question no doubt influenced Moore’s creation of Rorschach.Not saying i agree 100% with Doherty’s assessment any more than i do the response and breakdown you give of Rorschach’s character.
Watchmen encompasses ambiguity in the whole of the story, sop therefore it’s open to each individual reader’s interpretation to a large degree.
I always sorta viewed Rorschach as the hero, objecivist influences or not. I did feel he thought Ozy was wrong and that you do not murder 1 or 1 million as a means to an end for hi idea of a possible Utopia. Rorschach was not contradictory of many steadfast ideals of objectivism in most cases as when someone like the child killer took away someone’s right to live therefore gave up his own right.
He’ll always be the hero of the piece to me regardless of Moore’s intentions.
verifying sources can be an art though. way to go cbr!
this is super interesting. we really should do links for more goldmine finds like this…
I want a review of a comic that breaks all the traditional rules of what readers expect from their normal comic diet – that still manages to be decedent, thrilling and intelligent read. I really enjoy your column!
That all has to do with research. When you are advertising on a site, it is important for you to know how many views it gets on a daily basis, how and if they are doing any marketing and are most of their visitors returning visitors or new ones. If returning visitors are lacking, chances are the site isn’t doing a good job keeping them. Bottom line, it doesn’t make sense advertising for cheap when the site only has about 20 visitors.
I know next week I am doing Mark Millar’s American Jesus, as well as Terry Moore’s Echo. It should be a good column.
I was raised on this great stuff. I raised my son on it, you just cannot beat it for classic cartoon action/adventure. Some of the last of the good times in manly kid’s cartoons.
Beau Smith
The Flying Fist Ranch
They sure don’t make them like they used too. Space Ghost was always one of my favorites. I tried to get the kids interested in the old school cartoons but they just weren’t having any of it.
I like Tony Daniel’s work, but he needs to educate himself on how the internet works. A website, and any files and folders located therein, is public space. If you leave nude photos of yourself on your lawn, do you expect no one to stop and look? Just like with physical items, if you don’t want people seeing your things, it’s your responsibility to make sure they can’t.
Letting the cat out of the bag was completely his fault. He should have placed the image in a password-protected folder or not uploaded it at all.
The way I see it, he’s paying the “stupid tax” now.
Is American Jesus even out yet?
I’m a fan of Echo. Can’t wait!
I finally got around to reading this issue and really enjoyed it. Like you, it did feel like the same old, same old but it was an interesting same old, same old.
I may be mistaken but I believe Vol. 1 came out on March 25th, titled American Jesus: The Chosen but I don’t see it available for order on Amazon or TFAW. Was it delayed?
I actually got a copy of mine on Wednesday. If you can’t find a copy and my place still has it I can get you a copy Gary, or Joseph.
I am seriously digging this title. It seems to get better and better with each issue.
Both Richard & Joseph are right.
When something hits the internet, one must assume it will live forever.
But internet news has struggled for legitimacy for a while now; legitimacy is not given, it is earned.
If CBR is satisfied being a gossip rag, then whatever. But if CBR considers itself a journalist for comics, all news sources must be verified. That’s how *news* works; otherwise, you’re just The Enquirer of comics.
I think this is very funny.
Joss is awesome!
He definitely is. I loved his writing, but John made the book to me. I think his art is absolutely amazing.
hey, tongue-tied and third in line. hello, fifteen years later…
uh…uhm…uhh…
[when's the relaunch, hepcat?]
I’d buy it!
I heard Alex Ross is in talks for providing the covers.
Oh my mistake; American Jesus is just a trade paperback of Chosen, which I read several years ago. I wonder why it took so long for them to release the TPB…
Sheldon and Caanan of Supertron and Celadore fame.
**************
My predictions for next month: someone will hit 700 favs, and someone else will accuse said someone of cutting a deal with the devil to win.
Nice RKB, you got it! Yeah, seems every month there’s some kinda surprise.
did you know that his dad wrote the screenplay for the golden girls? crazy right?! Who thought his son would write the killer drama buffy…well, i think it’s funny.
Excellent interview! Ultimate Comics are a great group of folks, and i’m glad to see that they are getting some well deserved exposure.
Rock on.
Had me fooled…:)
That’s for this report. I will definitely try to check it out.
Still a little tongue tied I see.
This looks good. I can see a new addition being added to my collection.
Dude- Stroman is one of those rare artists who just has his absolute own personal style. Nobody draws like him.
He is in the same club as Gene Colan, Norm Breyfogle, Sam Kieth,…
Nice reviews, Joshua. I’m surprised you didn’t like Terry Moore’s art. Black & white art in a comic requires special skill because of how difficult it is for the eye to differentiate between different objects without the help of color. I’m quick to avoid b&w art myself, except for when it’s done so well that it doesn’t distract from the story. The Walking Dead and Echo are two excellent examples of b&w done right.
The next time you go to a comic shop, try flipping through some other b&w books and you’ll see how much of it is a struggle to read. I think you’ll appreciate Echo much more for it.
Thanks for the plug, guys. Much appreciated. We’re all very proud of the Domino Lady book. I hope you enjoy it.
Bobby
Eh, why does that kid’s wheelchair look like a frickin’ stroller? LOL
I haven’t gotten this far in the series yet, but one of the contributors on our site just got around to damnit-walking-dead reviewing volumes 1-4 so I’m checking those out right now. It’s not nearly as good a review as this, it but I thought it was funny that volume one is hitting our site now, while you guys are reviewing number nine.
Grell himself turned me onto comicmix.com. Every story, every chapter on that site, is free to read. No membership or anything like that.
I know the site had a shake-up awhile back, issues with selling adspace and general financing, so it was expected for some time that an arrangement like this would pop up.
While I am not thrilled with IDW’s pricing habits, this still means that some great comics from true professionals will now be meeting a larger audience.
Incidentally, the comicmix comics are edited by the legendary editor Mike Gold. Gold WAS First Comics- one of the funnest companies ever, back in the day. He not only has the eagle eye for talent, but the skills to maintain professional relationships that span decades. Compare that to the revolving doors of editors at the big two- and he is a stand out- the Jack Kirby of editors. Always good product.
The auctions end today!
Cough up the lunch money, kiddies!
Mike Grell kicks major ass, but I believe, and he might well agree, Mike Gold is part of his mojo being so strong.
I am a big fan of b&w art as well. Honestly I think The Walking Dead does a good job and so does Terry Moore with Echo. But the art is more of what I was talking about. I know Terry does his own stuff so he sacrifices some stuff. But, personally if you want to see great b&w go and check out a mini series from Shadowline/Image called Overlook!
Of Course I like this article, I did the artwork for issue 7 and 13. Even if I must say so myself both are great issues. The storylines for Stormblazer are very good with interesting characters and a nice secondary story line.
Bobby is so busy he failed to mention a project he is doing with artist Jason Flowers…
Great review, and very sharp predictions.
You’re absolutely right, Richard. Can’t believe I forgot to mention that. Jason and I are working on a horror graphic novel called Bloody Olde Englund. The art I’ve seen from Jason so far is absolutely fantastic. Check out Jason’s MySpace page where he’s posted some art samples from the book. Great stuff.
Thanks again for the interview, Gary. Much appreciated.
Bobby
Great article. Very inspirational. Keep writing those great comics Ultimate Comics.
As good as the Wonder Woman movie proved itself to be, this has my interest.
I have not yet seen the Wonder Woman movie, would like to eventually though. Green Lantern is one I’m really looking forward to.
that’s really horrible and my thoughts go out to Len and his family. i hope that something can get going to help them out, what a tragedy.
I would love to see what you can do with Supergirl, Bobby. She needs some reinventing.
Thanks, Belkis. I appreciate the vote of confidence. Last year I wrote a short Supergirl sample for some artist friends of mine to draw for portfolio reviews and it really reignited my interest in the character. I think she would be a lot of fun to write.
Bobby
Thanks to everyone who bid. Your support is appreciated.
Bobby
Have a blast, Randy!
I’d love to be there, sounds like a lot of fun to be had. I’m only 5 hours away, hmmmmmmm.
Love that Yeti cover, Beau. A thing of beauty. I could see you doing a kick ass Sub-Mariner series.
Bobby
Thank you, Bobby. Much appreciated. I think and hope folks will enjoy the action the humor and some of the pop culture stuff in the book.
I appreciate the post, amigo.
Beau
Looking forward to all these new books from you.. a month without a Beau book is not a real comic book month.
It is one thing to say I like it. It is quite a different thing to say it is good. There is nothing wrong with what you say here Richard. You simply pointed out that webcomics are not altogether good.
It could be argued that web-comic creators are no less flaky than any other artist, but I really see that the best of the community are the ones looking to have their stuff oneday in print. This applies to the three sites I mentioned in the piece, as well as certain other creators, like Brendan McGinley- who is doing phenomenal stuff. Like those sites, he is a good example of someone doing graphic novels in web format.
I like the idea of POD outfits also having download options. I like the idea of publishers debuting sample teasers online.
All the same, comics should be read, not viewed. Motion comics are an exception of sorts, as they (when done correctly) are a marriage of comics to film.
And truth be told, I would bet all of my worldly possessions that 90% of the regular viewers faithfully following web comics are family and friends of the creators. Every hit is NOT a read, people. Grow the fuck up.
Oh Richard, you’re such a mean guy.
There goes my pessimism.
You want Uncle Tom, check out newsarama or cbr.
Catering to the inane gets us nowhere as an industry.
Spades are spades, always.
I actually don’t even think I’ve read a web comic…
Hell, I barely read printed ones, and I write on a comic book site…
Figure that one out.
The Outsider’s perspective is always warranted, just as honesty is never unwarranted.
I read Anthony Schiavino’s Pulp Tone @ http://www.pulptone.com
I read Dave Flora’s Ghost Zero @ http://www.ghostzero.com
I read Dwight MacPherson’s Interagents @ http://www.th3rdworld.com/web-comic/Interagents/episode/Episode-1
All are well-organized, well-constructed and imaginative works of incredibly high production value. All are intended to be as print volumes, but happen to be premiering via the webz. As such, I would not label them as web-strips. I would have wanted to close Gaslight’s inaugural year with a big bang, saving these monoliths of awesomeness for the bookend.
Maybe interviews down the road a ways…
Norm Breyfogle is an Artist, in every true sense of the term.
i had my doubts at first (since the first two catalogs were pretty shabby) but this time around they seem to be right on the ball and they’ve made me a believer. i hope it manages to take Haven in the right direction.
Norm is a fine human being, something the world needs more of.
While I dig the DnA team, let’s not forget they wrote such forgettable comics as ForceWorks.
And the Divas comic sounds retarded. For starters (and to show some geek) there is an age range among those four characters of more than 20 years. The writer has done some dynamite work before, especially his 4 series under the Marvel Knights flag; but maybe he has been writing too many cable shows (ala Big Love) and needs a rebreather in comics. If they are looking to pitch to a female audience, I am sure there are less intelligence-insulting ways of going about it.
and my god how those My Cup ‘O Joe articles need a proofreader!
When I first read the headlines I thought Marvel was bringing in a rap group to write a comic. That’s the next evolution of comics right?
We’ve done the Hollywood writers bit already haven’t we?
Forceworks. I own the first issue, damn good comic! Thought for sure it would increase in value by now considering I purchased it as part of a 3 pack from a Family Dollar years ago.
Will Haven be the next “Diamond” in the rough?
Just noticed, someone forgot to add our name to the list. Emails will be flying shortly!
Unless Diamond buys them out like they have the rest of their competition over the past ten or so years.
ahh, you hit the nail on the head rich. hopefully they don’t (need to) surrender. although i can’t see how or why diamond would want to buy them out considering that they’d just end up inheriting a distribution branch that specializes in comics that really don’t make diamond’s benchmarks. but who knows, diamond can behave erratic at times.
This looks like a bucket of fun.
It sure does!
Here is a link to some preview pages of issue #1 posted on Indy Planet.
http://www.indyplanet.com/catalog/product_info.php?products_id=1650
Looks like a fun book, Ron.
Bobby
My pleasure, pal.
two more artists added :
Ver Curtis (Moonstone Comics)
Kata Dales (Lost in the Woods)
Thank you for the wonderful review, Richard! I’m so happy you enjoyed the book.
Much more watchable than the film.
nice!
Victoria is the nicest, sweetest person I’ve ever met. I’ve been lucky enough to have known her for 9 years now and I do have to say that she is one of the biggest nerds I know (in and out of costume). Can’t wait to read your columns.
(Good luck baby!!)
V for Vendetta as a motion comic would be great as would Marvels Secret Wars.
I vote for Cherry’s Jubilee:
http://www.toonopedia.com/cpoptart.htm
but seriously, might the Maxx be the first motion comic? thoughts?
Yeah… It was kind of really annoying… I remeber the end being a HUGE WTF? It’s one of those movies that didn’t end so much as just stop.
I mean the fact that humans are destroying the plabet I get. But considering that all he did was take away electricty? Come on! We’ve managed to do quite a bit of damage even before that. Anyone remeber the dodo? Yeah…
Yay!! Victoria’s first review. I can’t wait to read more from you and while on topic … I couldn’t agree more with your assessment of the issue. I can’t wait for the next one shots to come out also. Keep up the great work!
Just like the end of Escape From L.A.-
I think most places really would fall apart though. No more blackberries or Ipods, no more tivo or PS3’s. Stairs instead of elevators, no more fast food. Our culture is selfish and impractical. We cannot live without our primetime teevee and internet porn. Banks would really be screwed. Authorities could no longer communicate with themselves.
Total anarchy.
This movie really ticked me off. I was expecting so much more and got oh so little. I demand a do-over.
I’ve not read any of the Wonderland books in quite sometime but I’ve enjoyed what I’ve read, and not just for the pics
I’ll have to check these out again. Thanks for the wonderful review!
Initiative is a lost ethic.
I have plans on attending this convention, hopefully they do not fall through.
You’ve made me want to give Superman a try. Nice work and quick wit!
That was beautiful.
Casual and serious fans alike agree that All-Star Superman is probably the most outstanding example of a good Superman story.
Great review, and I agree. This is something for the shelves or for the coffee table, but coffee table books generally only do well when focusing on a singular work or creator. This could be sensory overload for novice readers.
And I miss the John Reppion/Leah Moore stories from previous issues.
Keep us updated on the status of your projects! I love your column!!
That could be a little disturbing………but awesome at the same time.
Don’t knock it til you try it.
I had seen the bunnies’ riff on 30 Days of Night before- totally forgot how hilarious that was.
for my five…
the Fleischer Bros. Superman
Super-Friends
the Maxx
G.I. Joe
Spiderman & His Amazing Friends
with special kudos to the recent animated Wonder Woman movie, which actually was hyper-cool.
Praise Kal-El, hallelujah! You have SEEN THE LIGHT!
Agreed! I bought WW also and was VERY pleased with it. But this was a Top 5 for cartoons in the Saturday Morning sense. Maybe movies of the animated sort will be next
Thanks for the shout-out! The bunnies & I appreciate it!
For my top 5….
1. G.I.Joe
2. Transformers(the original series..not the new crap they’ve come out with)
3. Thundercats
4. He-Man
5. X-Men Adventures
I agree, Gary. GI Joe went downhill with that Extreme crapola. The last good storyline was with Slaughter’s Marauders and the debut of Scoop; while Transformers went straight to hell just prior to that Beast Wars rubbish.
Thundercats, thankfully, never had a “fat Elvis” phase.
I will say that Nihilism is more honest, more realistic than political affiliations and/or religious dogma.
That does not make it right, but it makes the aims truer, if only for giving less credibility to convolution and corruption.
yes Nihilism is honest, but as a motivating force it is hollow. Hope my friend, HOPE is a good thing.
Hope is subjective and has no guarantees, while nihilism is self-assured and so validated.
I like skinny teenage girl boobies.
Still, the uproar is a bit silly. This IS a fantasy genre, and it’s not like the male heroes in the picture are about to jump in with the deep penetration gang bang hardcore anal orgy action. OF COURSE the camera angle is intentional, but innuendo and threat are not the same.
The only people who would really have an issue with this are the bitter fatties and middle-aged women wishing guys would look at them like that. Turn off the Oprah, put down the McDonalds and stop blaming society for your own inadequacies. Teenagers care about perception by others. Adults should have better things to fret over.
How did I know you were going to comment about the boobies.
This reminds me of the whole tentacle uproar from a few years back, what comic was that? Can’t remember, but it sure was a nice cover.
People tend to focus too much energy on things that really shouldn’t matter but on things that carry significant importance, they care too little about.
Uproar for the sake of uproar. I don’t give a rats ass about Supergirl being displayed in that manner, it means little to me.
Another good book to read is the Elseworlds graphic novel, Red Sun.
Yea on the Red Sun, and also- The Nail, by Alan Davis. The first collection helps give the guy some validation, and it is drawn purdy.
A lot of people said this was a bad film but never fully expressed why. This was an informative review. Thanks.
Having been an avid fan of Mark’s Outlanders novel series for the last 12 years, I’ve only recently become acquainted with his comics work.
The Death Hawk graphic novel really blew me away–I love space opera and he did a fabulous job with that genre.
I guess the artwork by Adam Hughes didn’t hurt either.
This is a brilliant idea and I use to watch this show with my brother. I miss the good ole’ days too when you looked forward to the Saturday morning lineup. I think the last great cartoon was Justice League Unlimited.
Looking forward to seeing what you select every week!
remember your first comic adventure with beauregard leduke. you put me as a bartender in oklahoma, a far piece from “tavern off the green.”
anyway stopped by the pig and whistle yesterday and this girl behind the bar was all rapt up in reading her comic book. she, didn’t get her name, comics were her favorite past-time and she was all excited because some guy was going to write a comic book taking place in huntington. told her it was already done – more than twenty years ago and that yours truly was a bartender in the opening episode. are you the one doing huntington thing and should i have her sing to your website?
maybe i should my copy of leduke and show her the real thing.
yours truly, burke.
majher bought hhs baseball scoreboard, tina perry got married and moved to pa maybe and joyce kilgore i think is working for the airlines in pa too.
The pressure is now on!!
It could have been such a great film, it had the makings to be great but it just wasn’t. I went into this with an open mind, not thinking about the gazillion negative reviews and was hoping that I could find a silver lining but could not do so.
Anyone remember the Marvel hotline back in the 90’s? Krueger was the producer, AND the VOICE of “Spider-Jim” himself.
Although, I had read other interviews that cited the Foot Soldiers as being his first writing gig, which is just not true. While he was a Marvel staffer he wrote there, such things as a New Warriors ashcan comic, and an X-men custom comic.
Still, it is nice to know he is so thoughtful and well-read of a writer. Clockmaker still kicks ass.
I don’t remember much about the hotline but I do remember Marvel having one.
It was actually a neat idea- maybe 10 minutes of a pre-recorded thing (updated weekly-?), full of previews, behind the scenes stories and mini-interviews. I remember Keith Giffen talking about the Lunatik character, and the interplay between him and Spider-Jim was so hillarious I must have listened to it half a dozen times.
Now we have the internet, where thanks to twitter we know which Marvel staffers are passing out drunk as it happens. sigh.
This interview friggin rocks! I’ve never seen that page art before. Nice
Twitter is worse than a squirrel monkey on crack.
You wrote: Len gave us a lot over the years.
Len never “gave” us anything. He was well paid and should have used some of that money to purchase insurance for his comic book collection.
Are any rebublicans sending comics to Len? I highly doubt it, there are enough bailouts going on in this country.
Wow, are you an ass, and wrong on all counts.
Having written a few hundred comics does NOT equate to being well paid.
The man lost his home, lost most of his possessions. Should the same happen to you I hope your ignorance leads to you choking on rubbing alcohol in a cold alley somewhere.
And blaming the bailouts on any one party is retarded. It takes two to tango, and 86 of the 100 wealthiest persons in this country are not Democrats.
twat.
[...] Colin Panetta is no stranger to the weird and fantastic. His original comic book, Dead Man Holiday, is a freakishly fun ride through a fictionalized distant future loaded with monsters and mayhem. [...]
Best news from the House of Ideas in YEARS.
Escape from Wonderland sounds interesting. From what I have read of the Wonderland comics they have always been well written and quite entertaining and the artwork has always been magnificent!
I’m almost ashamed to admit that I haven’t read anything Wonderland related in quite some time but I’ll rectify that problem very soon.
For those wondering…which was me until I found this awesome wiki page.
An iconoclast is someone who performs iconoclasm — destruction of religious symbols, or, by extension, established dogma or conventions.
Iconoclast may also refer to:
Iconoclasts (TV show), featuring celebrity interviews, shown on the Sundance Channel
Great article, even if I didn’t know what Iconoclast meant. You see, you edumacated me today!
This is a very good topic that you’ve chosen this month.
In the past(and still somewhat today) my interview always consisted of me coming up with a series of questions and sending them over to the interviewee, when they came back I rarely followed up on any of the questions I just went with what I had. It was almost as if I was afraid to do a follow-up for fear of aggravating the person on the other end.
I agree with everything that you mentioned.
I really like the way Richard conducts his email interviews. Rather than canned questions he treats it like a conversation, exchanging email after email, letting the responses dictate where to go next, which makes for a very interesting read. Hope I didn’t just give away his trade secrets.
Oh and by my first line…”This is a very good topic that you’ve chosen this month.” I didn’t mean that your previous columns were bad, those were just as interesting, entertaining and educational as this months topic.
CURSE YOU RODRIGUE!
No, it’s fine. I also play on the phone quite a bit. Interviews strictly via phone can be awkward however, as my shorthand looks like pages from the Necronomicon.
I do perform a tremendous amount of research prior though, and I keep specific topics in mind to hit. I equate this with drunkenly piloting an aircraft carrier, at times. It has been my experience that the more organic the flow of dialogue, the more likely that gems might unearth themselves. It loosens guards. These should be portraits.
Respect should be given, always, if you want candid honesty to bleed out.
Richard,
I absolutely love your interviews. You say that it should flow organically and I absolutely agree. I think the reason why it works so well for you is because you put humor into it. I myself have a hard time doing interviews. But I do like researching my subjects. Once I find something interesting about them I already have a few more questions to ask after that. I try to do the James Lipton style….:)
-Belkis
Everyone could learn from Lipton. I’ve watched him interview people I have not the slightest bit of interest in, and turn it into something really really fun, albeit in a psychologically fruitful kinda way.
Great interview! I definitely enjoyed reading it.
-Belkis
As someone who has conducted interviews for both radio and print I totally agree with what you have said about being prepared, plus about having follow-up questions prepared, and injecting humor (both to set the interview subject at ease, and for the listener. I want to add that you should make sure to actually listen to what your subject is saying. You can’t believe how many times I’ve read/listened to interviews where the subject says something and the interviewer (who is following a script) doesn’t follow-up with the obvious question that was suggested by what the person said.
I’m really looking forward to that America’s Army GN.
I’ve always enjoyed reading comics that focus on the military, the previews look pretty amazing. Hope I don’t have to join the Army to get a copy, I’ve already served my time.
FYI. I’m doing a Free Comic Book Day signing at Galactic Quest Comics (http://tinyurl.com/dgkdeh) in Lawrenceville, GA. http://tinyurl.com/27dfnw
Bobby
[...] No, Mr. Massie is the super talented scribe and illustrator of the Alterna Comics published title The Deadbeat, a graphic novel that revolves around a down on his luck former [...]
10 Bucks! That’s a lot…oh well, it must be worth it.
It is $9.95 for an entire graphic novel. It is actually a pretty good deal compared to graphic novel pricing today. Minus Alterna Comics, and a random one here and there.
Well they changed publisher, and because it was put on the back burner as Millar got busy with Wanted, and the Ultimates among other titles. On top of that he is planning 2 more parts so he was waiting until he could finish it.
What the hell??! That is the stupidest thing I have EVER heard!!
Boo friggin hoo, some actor died!! Most of you didn’t even give two spits about him until he did, and don’t even TRY to pretend you did! The Joker is a mainstay in the Batman mythos, and refusing to use the character in future Nolan Batman films because someone who played him offed himself is just ridiculous.
Ledger was a great actor. Guess what? There are ALOT of great actors!! To think that no one can pull off that same quality in the same style is just ignorant fanboyism.
The ONLY reason Joker should not be used in future films is if he doesn’t fit the story.
Oh. And by the way, to all you blind fans that didn’t even care about Batman until this happened- The Dark Knight’s all about Harvey Dent, NOT the Joker. =)
[...] announced plans for a third and final mini-series installment of their Wonderland series entitled ESCAPE FROM WONDERLAND. The seven issue mini-series is the final piece of the epic trilogy with issue #0 due out this [...]
[...] all Mutants! Every Tuesday, Marvel.com (www.marvel.com) will stream episodes from the X-Men animated series that launched in 1992. Relive the adventure, excitement and that awesome theme song every [...]
And for those who would love to BLOCK me:
http://twitter.com/nilskidoo
I am a big fan of Bret’s work.
Professional, egoless and a nice guy, too.
Some comic pro’s spend downtime playing video games, Bret teaches kids how to make comix.
[...] by award winning writer Jason M. Burns (A Dummy’s Guide to Danger, Curse of the Were-Woman) and brought to life by artist Ramon Espinoza [...]
Why are the Green Lantern gods making us wait longer? lol
Wow … that Lady Diana cover looks beautiful. I think I may pick that one up.
Not to take away from any of the others but yea that Princess Di cover is pretty striking.
Dude, they call themselves “Trekkers” nowadays.
But what do I know? I prefer Doctor Who to Both Wars and Trek.
I’ve never been much of a Star Trek fan. Shatner just ruined it for me.
Capt. Kirk: Good. Let’s. Get. To. Work.
I always though of him as a pompous toad.
This film has me very interested. Watching the previews leaves me with the impression that it is a bit more grounded that any other Star Trek film.
Yea, no kidding.
Yes, follow Mr.Caldwell. He will make you laugh, or cry.
Although it ticks me off when people refer to it as a space opera, which it is not, I have seen enough of the movies and assorted series (and comics) to appreciate it for what it is. Still, this has got to be the best thing that ever happened to the franchise, and I can give or take Abrams. As good as Lost is, Alias was a joke.
or press charges.
nice. I love Guillory’s art.
this thing has “showtime series” written all over it.
I wanted to know who did the cover on the Hillary Clinton. Now I know! It’s great work.
-Belkis
Yea ummm so I was thinking….Star Trek is a ummmmm Space Opera.
I agree with this- I think this is the best thing to happen to the franchise.
I couldn’t agree more. I bought this issue and by the time I was done reading it, I kind of wished that I hadn’t spend $6.99 for an issue that has nothing to do with it’s title. Honestly … I’m only keeping it around for it’s name sake and the cover. It was a good story … the snakes and spiders were really awesome but definately not for this title.
I too thought it would have been an type of haunted house story and didn’t feel like they explained where the mirror came from either. (since the original was destroyed, Johnny has one, and these people have one.)
Wow. This is a really awesome idea! But don’t forget the after school cartoons too like Darkwing Duck!
There are still some quality cartoons out there, however they are restricted to cable only (DCAU) or rated Mature (AFRO Samurai).
Growing up, I tended to watch Muppet Babies, Dungeons and Dragons, Hulk Hogan’s Rockin Wrestling, Xmen, Wuzzles, Smurfs, and CBS Storytime (since it was the only cartoon on after 12).
Glad you like it Brian.
Ahhhh Smurfs, man I used to love that show when I was a kid.
Fa la la la la la Fa la la la laaaaaaaaaaa
$6.99?!? What!!!
How many pages did this book have?
The mirror was destroyed. Doesn’t mean it stayed that way. And who said Johnny has a mirror, maybe it was the same one;)
The issue was about 42 pages so I think $6.99 was a fair price. Ooooh Raven just gave us a clue about the mirror!
Cover price was $5.99 sillies, 42 pages for a nice thick book. Nice review Victoria
.
Thanks for the interview, Richard. It was a lot of fun.
Bobby
I’ve lettered Bobby over at Arcana, and he’s a really good writer. I’m surprised they don’t talk about him over at Wizard! See? CN.I is one step ahead of those guys already!
HA! HA! Thanks, Jaymes. I don’t think I work for the right companies to hit their radar. That’s cool though. The guys here at CNI have been great.
Bobby
Benefit auction is a great thing to do.. Trying to save somebody else life is truly a remarkable deed.. IT is not just about raising million of dollars but also building relationship with the donors and beneficiary as well..Thanks for sharing this post and I will do what I can to participate and make this benefit auction a successful one..
Good picture Bobby and great interview
Keep doing what you love.
This was a really funny/fun interview. I’m going to have to go back and get Midas now. For some reason I think the Zenescope mini-series tend to do better than their continuous issues. I’m looking forward to Dante’s Inferno (i hope we get some busty she-devils ala Tenacious D style) and OZ.
Isn’t Salem’s Daughter kind of Vampire-ish … now that i think of it? Anyways … awesome as usual.
Thanks, Bernadette. I love my camera. It allows me to take pictures of myself like that one that I can creatively crop.
That’s me in the doorway between my laundry room and kitchen (behind me).
Bobby
Star Wars fans, I dub thee….
Georgians
Warsians
Lucasians
Believers
Oh, and if any “Trekker” takes offense to being called a Trekkie, they’re automatically an Ultra-Trekkie.
[...] then Martin Fisher was interviewed by ComicNews.Info and Webcomic Finds is impressed by Dovecote Crest. I also seem to have missed this post about Bengo [...]
Amen to the answer for the “border-line porn” question. Everyday we look at sexy images and guess what…there’s nothing wrong with that. Sex sells because that’s what we want and ask for it. Two thumps up for extremely hot chicks!
-Belkis
I always thought “merc with a mouth” sounded dirty.
If you watch Lost, these are what inspired the characters of Kate and Sawyer.
Yea, I was a bit lazy last night when picking this weeks ‘toon.
No, I think there was a really weird point there when all these rated R/pg13 movies were getting kids cartoons, like Rambo, and Police Academy, and Beetlejuice and Conan.
Still waiting on Devil in Miss Jones.
Thanks 4 the feedback!
Oh god, who would deny 70 years worth of cool reading materials in the backstock? The same arrogantly youthful mentality that presumes unless something happened in the past five minutes it doesn’t count, like how only “music” on the radio right now is worth listening too, etc.
Give me Kirby’s Kamandi over Final Crisis any day of the Hypertime, give me Simonson’s epic run on Thor over Straczynski’s inability to meet a deadline. You like the pulp of Brubaker’s style? Hunt down some Max Allan Collins and see where he learned it from. You think Butch Guice is a superstar now? Dig up copies of his run on Nick Fury, agent of SHIELD.
Comics are certainly seeming at their most exciting time now, but a little knowledge of the past will tell you that everything now is ONLY derivation of stories and ideas from before.
I will say that the last bit of true innovation in mainstream comics were in the first few years of the Vertigo imprint at DC. The NEW is always raging in certain smaller press books, like those from Fantagraphics, Drawn & Quarterly, etc. But unfortunately the mass of comics journalism remains incapable of looking beyond the capes.
this new Star Trek is so much fun, especially after what a letdown Wolverine ended up being; the new Capt. Kirk is a lot more more believable as a leader-type than William Shatner
I don’t see anything wrong with todays comics. Most publishers are putting out some high quality material. The problem is the price tag on these books. I’m no longer at the point where I can simply pick up a title, adding it to my pull list, and trying it out for a couple of months without dropping something else first.
Finally had the opportunity to check this one out, very very good movie!
This was a very entertaining read. Good question asking about the borderline porn, I have heard that brought up a time or two regarding Zenescope. I really liked the answer Ralph gave.
Dantes Inferno sounds like something right up my alley.
Iron Sky sounds like it is going to be mucho funno.
**Ahem** Best website nominations. **Ahem**, just sayin ya know!
Secret lovers that’s what they are,
Try so hard to hide the way they feel
When they both belong to someone else
But they can’t let it go
Cause what they feel is oh so real, so real, so real, soooooo reaaaaaaaaaallll
It does have a nice ring to it.
I voted.
I voted for us. I voted for certain things, and I voted against certain things.
I don’t even know you anymore.
I won’t deny that there are good comics today, I just don’t understand the people who deny all the good comics from before.
My favorite couple in comic book history!! God I love them…..
All time classic my brotha, just sayin ya know.
Rock the vote…..rock the vote.
Shit, Brubaker already not only brought back the original Bucky, but made him over from the Winter Agent to the current Cap. Can he now do the same with Liefeld’s Bucky, making her cool? I’m guessing that is the girl from Heroes Reborn, who Jeph Loeb somehow pulled into the actual Marvel U.
Also, I heard Gene Colan was contributing to this as well. if Marvel left his name out of the blurb, then I ain’t too happy.
[...] we did our Checking in With.. interview you mentioned that you had some very exciting news that you couldn’t share at the [...]
Thanks again for the interview Gus! It was a pleasure.
Richard,
You are a gentleman and a scholar. I’m smiling from ear to ear at not only reading your tremendously artful review, but also seeing that you really captured the true nature of the book. You are a generous person, and I sincerely appreciate you even identifying the art team members by name. They are truly going to love your write-up as much as I do!
Thank you very much,
Chris
Chris Harden
http://www.The-Fro.com
[...] Outlaw Entertainment was interviewed on Comic News Info and Jason Burns talks about their graphic novel specialization and their submission policy. [...]
I smell an Eisner.
As sad as it is you are probably right.
Who is this Wolverine I keep hearing about?
You never saw Red Dawn?
WOLVERINES!!!
Actually, I am digging this.
I think the only character that ever went on an Avengers mission before was Falcon’s falcon, Redwing, but Eliopoulos is writing a story with a strong innocent vibe. It’s not outside of the mainstream continuity, but it is much more light-hearted than the Dark-everything stuff. I believe DC did a super pets thing in the silver age, but this is just a fun read. No pretensions. Sure they’re all animals, but it never gets cartoony, aside from a froggy god of thunder. Even that is handled buyably well.
Neils the cat is my fave, as Speedball exists because of that little puss. Anyone who has ever owned a cat has at one time toyed with throwing them, across the room or out a window, whatever, so I always thought a bouncing cat was a glance into Ditko’s sense of humor.
All of the characters have been around long enough so as to have their own personalities, and it stays true to them, showing the creative team are total geeks, thankfully. Lockjaw is played as the leader, but I think Lockheed the mini-dragon is actually the smartest. Now I need to go re-read my issues of the Claremont/Davis run early on from Excalibur (which was the ONLY time that book was readable).
I’ll tuck my geek back in now.
That was an awesome movie back in the day.
I was robbed.
[...] Hiddleston was also one of the actors on the short list being considered for the part of Thor, which went to Chris Hemsworth. [...]
New American Flagg material? I would even support a charity for that.
Just when you think you know someone and they go all Lockjaw on you. I didn’t realize you were serious.
I hope they stay true to the source material as much as possible. I want to see Asgardian clothing and all. Don’t give me some modern day dummed down version of Thor and Loki the way they did in the X-Men films. That black leather was cool but dammit that wasn’t the X-Men from the comics.
If this had been 5 years ago, I bet the roles of Holmes and Watson would have been reversed.
I like Ritchie, especially when he is Madonna-free, and though this does not smell like Sherlock Holmes…I would totally watch this.
My geek knows no bounds.
And I do have a growing collection of different artists’ interpretations of Speedball. One guy said the request was so left field that he refused to charge me for the page of original art.
Shipping alone probably cost HIM 10 bucks.
i like artist who are trying to do something to revamp the glory days of comics i mean, since Marvel and DC have finalliy sold out to alternate stories and now movies. Comics at this point needs fresh ideas and as steve put it some weird titles to spice up the general comic landscape
[...] to brave these stormy waters, always to mixed results. A more recent and ongoing attempt is by RS Carbonneau in his Zoroaster in Aethiopia [...]
[...] Wonder of Comics: Zuda Feb. ‘09 Competition Update & an Experiment in Webcomics Wonder of Comics: Zuda Feb. ‘09 Competition Update & an… [...]
And along with all of those points, don’t forget that Alan Moore used the imagery of Christ in “Promethea” to explain the levels of kabalistic symbolism and magic.
But I don’t feel that anything interesting can be sapped from the Bible. It’s a *really* boring story.
There actually is a rich mythology to it (I could provide tons of interesting links on the lore of angels and demons alone, and none of that New Age hogwash), but christianity is the only religion in comics that is not allowed unless there is a sales pitch in the mix.
By refraining from general exploratory usage, the powers that be are obviously acknowledging that it is in any way special or unique of other systems of spirituality, which arguably goes against the first amendment.
Nice review; glad you had a good experience. I’m a big fan of Doug Jones; he was amazing in Pan’s Labyrinth!
YAY!!! First post!!! I agree that some of it was confusing but I think that that was mostly due to Grant Morrison’s definition of what Anti-Life was supposed to be in the first place. I think given the crap that Morrison put forth, they did the best they could. Go Babs in the alley!!!!
Nice review; I decided to skip seeing this yesterday due to bad word of mouth. After reading your review I’m glad I did.
I am literally in pain right now because I won’t be able to attend this year.
So is my wife, of course SDCC was out of the question, but when she heard about this panel she was like, OK….what would it take to go to SDCC.
She is as big a fan of Twilight as they come. Posters, books, keychains, t-shirts..you name it. She was planning on attending Twi-Con in August but she backed out, my wallet thanks her for that.
I’m happy to hear that this game will be available for the PSP since I do not own a PS3 or an X-Box 360.
I look forward to fighting for freedom whenever theres trouble.
I want to see this film but like you, the reviews have helped me decide to wait.
Hollywood, take note or I will blow up your car.
I vote for Up.
And with Archie, something our brothers and sisters in the media are missing is the fact that, as innovative and creative as the Archie comics have been in their long history- there is NO continuity. They could easily do an entire blockbuster mini focusing on every aspect of the marriage ordeal, then resume doing exactly what they have always been doing. This is just the latest from the REAL House of Ideas. Anyone who thinks that Archie is not MORE daringly original and ground-breaking than Marvel and DC combined has not read any Archie. Seriously.
Now I am tempted to do a column sometime spouting the 1,001 virtues of Archie Comics..
I’d have to go with Land of the Lost.
Sweet!! I can’t wait to play this game!! I’m probably going to be buying a PS3 just for this. Her eyes are creepy as hell.
So I have four months to save my pennies in order to purchase a PS3. Why not for the PSP?
Is it wrong to want to have rough sex with a video game character?
It only becomes wrong when you tell someone that you want to.
I was asking for a friend, scout’s honor.
Sure Richard, you were asking for a “friend”. LOL
[...] News showcases a really cool Fan-Made Green Lantern Trailer. The creator Jaron Pitts grabbed bits and pieces from around 30 other films, worked some Adobe [...]
Nice interview … shame it was so short. I guess with David having a new born, he really doesn’t have too much time to talk. I own both of his Xmen dvd’s and can’t wait for the rest!
This is a problem that I run across quite a bit. Personally, I feel that I am always underselling myself, with friends and colleagues, I see that many of them don’t quite know how to market themselves (write their own bios, resumes, etc.) This is a lesson that we can all learn.
[...] comic, there were no superheroes as we think of them today. Well, that copy of Action Comics was sold for $317,200. Not bad for an initial 35 cent investment, [...]
Bob,
If you can teach them to write bios, resumes, etc, then that is something valuable for others. Simple stuff like that can take you a long way and sets you apart from others.
-Belkis
Right, him taking a shotgun to the book had nothing at all to do with it.
I can’t wait to see this. The art looks spot on with what Mr. McGuinness did in the comic.
Here’s hoping to see this spin right into Supergirl … because she rocks!!!
It stinks! Archie should propose to Betty!!!
That’s what affairs are for.
Affairs! HA!
The other day and came across a stack of about 15 Archie Digest comics at a yard sale. Reading through some of these I noticed that Betty was kind of easy. Quickly moving from one guy to the next, in one strip she made a date with maybe 4 different guys. I mean, yes, Veronica maybe a bitch but at least she is a faithful bitch, at least she was in the strips I read.
Now maybe Betty will go all prom night psycho and crash the wedding and cut some shit up. Then again what do I know.
I bet there’s a big sequel in the works, like an event crossover, where it’ll be revealed that Jughead blackmailed Arch into settling for Veronica so that he could have Betty all to himself.
Wow cool. I didn’t know he did S/B Vs. V/W. I read the first 4 issues of that then had to drop it because i was spending too much on comics.
I’m really loving these Lego games; Stars Wars & Lego Batman were so much fun. I found the controls on Indiana Jones frustrating. Looking forward to this one; I’m a big Harry Potter fan!
I love the Gamestop store poster with Joker on it (the one where they say you can play as him not the one with the TV head). I can’t wait to see what the game looks like in Joker-Vision.
Supergirl does rock! I’m looking forward to this film too; looks amazing.
It’s a brilliant idea
BNW really is the best comic store in the Philly area. I’ve been to most of the others and NO ONE matches the size of their show room and most DEFINATELY no one matches their employees. (unlike Bagged and Boarded who curse up a storm and don’t like helping customers).
I love this store … that’s why i stop in weekly no matter what.
oh … and Victoria … you’re HOT!!!!
I think I have a fan! LOL Thank you baby.
This looks damn good.
Looks like fun!
Poor David. I hope he’s at peace now.
Peter! Glad to hear from my wonderful ex co-host! Retro sounds great and looking forward to seeing some fresh work from you! Absolutely amazing stuff you got. I know that you have always been a creative soul but if you ever need some pr/marketing help. Give me a shout.
And Richard…he is a bucket of fun!!
-Belkis
RIP David….:(
[...] READ this cool INTERVIEW: http://comicnews.info/?p=7112 [...]
Here are some new details about his death.
http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/31118992/
Sounds like he died getting his freak on.
HOLY RUSTED METAL BATMAN!!! I want this game yesterday!!!!
If you dig the older Vertigo books, the Heavy Metal mag, Ted McKeever/Mike Avon Oeming-styled art, if you remember the online whatisthematrix? comics, this book is down your stream.
Yes, I am personally endorsing this. It is that good.
[...] Army – The Graphic Novel was produced by Michael Barnett and written by M. Zachary Sherman (Shrapnel) with art by Michael Penick (The Corps!) and J. Brown (Thunderbolts). The web interface [...]
With the new information being released I gotta say, that is a really stupid way to die. People don’t relaize just how dangerous those practices are. Is it really worth it in the end? Cutting your life short and breaking the hearts of your friends and loved ones? Seems selfish to me. I don’t get; it smacks of stupid.
Sadly, his freak accident is going to overshadow his career. People will be talking more about how he died rather than his work.
Like you’ve never hunted a priest before. Right.
Honestly, I hate how solid this series is. I love Adlard’s work, he actually drew the first X-files comics way back when. I think the longer this series goes, the better it grows, like wine, or Pearl Jam.
I think you’d make a great dog.
So I should dust off that old script for Lincoln Logs: The Movie?
1. I see no point in reading the Twilight books, however, I do see a point in watching the movies. Vampires man … from Interview to Blade … aren’t they manditory man movies no matter how much they suck?
2. Captain America should DEFINATELY come out on 4th of july or labor day … or memorial day.
3. I don’t read much marvel but definately don’t raise the price on all of them. If i can save a buck on 4 comics then i practically got one for free. I’m on a budget man.
4. Being exclusive can only really be used to where a story is broken. Once broken, then the world IS going to pass the word (especially websites). Otherwise the story doesn’t spread.
5. about Burger King … HELL TO THE YES!!!!
6. while it’s ture that you shouldn’t have to censor yourself for anyone’s well being, it’s also true that you can attract more flies with honey than vinager. Call ‘em like you see ‘em but, if you know someone will take offense, frame it in the context of your own oppinion. If those being offended can’t tolerate your oppinion then they are offending you with their ignorance to your feelings and deserve what they get.
Lincoln Logs: The movie has plenty of potential.
Pillow People would work well as a horror flick. http://www.inthe80s.com/toys/pillowpeople0.shtml
Super Pickle could easily be made into a porn film. Hell, maybe it already has.
Oh and when will we get a live-action Q-Bert film? He was the shit when I was in school.
Brain- The other day, while browsing the book isle at Walmart, my wife tells me that I really don’t need to purchase a new book because she has all of these great Twilight books that I can read. No thanks.
Cap on Memorial Day weekend wouldn’t be a bad idea.
Marvel really ticks me off anymore, every month I seem to see another title raised to $3.99. At one point my pull list was about 90% Marvel, with the price increases that list is down to 2 titles, Captain America and Uncanny X-Men. Both of those books are now priced at $3.99. I’ve followed Cap since issue 1 of the reboot and Uncanny since I can remember so dropping those would be really difficult but not out of the question at this point.
It’s funny when it comes to “exclusives”. One site breaks it, the next site tweaks the story and runs it as an exclusive and so forth. Previews are funny too. Several, not to be named sites, claim exclusivity on certain previews when in fact they aren’t exclusive to that site at all. Hey, whatever works to bring in the visitors I guess.
As to #6. Great advice.
I’m sold. Thanks!
Not to ummmmm interrupt you two but this sounded like loads of fun.
Great review, great book! Only question I have is “Who hates Witches?”
PRESTON AND STEVE ROCK!!!! GADZOOKS!!!
Thanks for finding us and reviewing us, Richard! Issue #2 is in the can, and should be available at Literate Machine in a couple of weeks, at which point I’ll send one your way.
You can download FREE MUSIC AND COMICS from our website too: http://www.americans-uk.com .
One if by land,
Two if by sea,
Three if by rock!
Three,
Jef UK
Oh yeah, forgot: lettering by BEN!
Lettering by Ben.
Seen this?
Fan Made Green Lantern Trailer…not a bad effort.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_hTiRnqnvDs
OoooOoowwWWwwwww…
[...] my mates Steve Ekstrom for the wonderful interview on NEWSARAMA and Gus Higuera for his masterful interview for ComicNews.Info. I have a couple more interviews I’m completing, so I will make links available as they are [...]
Good pointing saying that it is parody and not an adaption. I think when you get into that frame of mind, you will be able to accept the film. I personally loved the animated version and knew that this Will Ferrell wasn’t going to be anything like it.
-Belkis
Wow! I seriously can’t wait to see this movie.
He does look pretty bad in that pic. I’m not a fan of Mr.Rourke so we’ll see.
I recommend somebody picks up a copy of this and see what all the buzz is about. I read it and enjoyed every single page. It definitely deserves the award.
-Belkis
GoBots were like the poor mans Transformers.
One Christmas all my friends got Transformers, I got GoBots.
Good to know. Thanks for the info!
Love it.
Wow………..and I thought I gave some tough reviews.
LOL…I had no knowledge of this publication and I am suprised that my artwork was featured in the comic book. While it was nice to read that my cover for the whole war in Iraq comic was the only thing you found decent about the book I’d like to say that my working on that peice of artwork was not soiling myself with Post Mortem (who I don’t work for) but was done to support the troops overseas because the book to my knowledge is a charity for veterans. I honestly am not associated with this publisher and the art was not a paying gig but a contribution for a good cause.
AMERICANS UK #2 is up on literatemachine!
http://literatemachine.com/node/1210
Admit it, you’re just mad that your wife won’t let you play with giant dice.
The best yet!
So glad you liked it! Thank you for talking about it, Richard. #3 will be out by Labor Day weekend, fingers crossed.
Rocktronic,
Jef UK
[...] KLICK [...]
Americans UK #2 rocked my balls off. It rocked them off so hard that after I reinstalled them onto myself, I had 3 balls. Thanks Americans UK #2 !
[...] huge thanks goes out to Richard Caldwell and ComicNews.info for the interview that they did with me. Richard I have fun on twitter and I enjoyed trading emails back and forth [...]
[...] Higuera is doing an outstanding job getting interviews from willing Zuda contestants over at Comic Info News with his Wonder of Comics [...]
I’m glad to see it doing well. I particularly liked the dark cinematography. I found a good discussion of the movie at pandalous. It’s here: http://www.pandalous.com/nodes/drag_me_to_hell
And now we can add Billy Mays to that list!
and Ed McMahon just a few days ago.
Any bets on who’s next?
Though with Jackson, the FIRST kid who came forward did describe Jackson’s penis in testimony. (His case was screwed though because his dad had tried to blackmail Jackson over it prior to litigation.) The family eventually settled out of court, which kept Jackson from being prosecuted.
So yes, he was guilty.
Two other families are known to have settled (for undisclosed amounts) out of court in the years that followed the media blitz of the first case. There would have been no settlements at all if not for legitimate cases. He was a child bugger who should have been locked up a long long time ago.
Same writers x J.J. Abrams = Awesome movie! (Star Trek)
Same writers – Michael Bay = Crawsh, explode! (Transformers)
I have to disagree with almost everything you’ve said. I thought that the first Transformers movie was nothing short of awesome. I didn’t have high hopes for the sequel (because it’s a sequel) but have to admit that it still fell short. I understood the plot clearly but felt that they took way too long in getting to it. I think that they could have cut about half of the movie out and it would have moved a lot smoother. Also i noticed that they added some more kid friendly elements to it so that it didn’t seem so dark (as parents would surely complain). They really took away from the film. The biggest problem for me is that there were too many comic relief characters on the screen and too few heroes. They didn’t introduce new robots well or at all and the actions sceens were so blurred that you can’t tell one robots fist from another robots @$$.
It was a mid range movie. a solid 5/10. Poor story with great CG and fair action scenes. I’d put it right up there with Wolverine Origins or Spiderman 3.
I’d put both Transformers films, and Wolverine: Origins, on par with Shaq’s Steel movie from the 90’s. All of the filmmakers should have their contracts ripped to shreds.
The only Transformers movie in my mind featured the death of Optimus.
I agree with Richard above. Though MJ may have never been found guilty, the evidence found sure did prove otherwise. With his fame there is not jury that would have found him guilty anyway, even if there was video proof if the case. I will always remember that about him, above any claim to fame he has in the music industry. This is one death I am far from mourning, but instead I am actually relieved that his kids, and any others that he surrounds himself with are now safe from his evil ways.
One question, why is this article on a comic site? I came to the site for reviews on comics, news on releases, ect. This is not news I would not have found elsewhere, 200 times before this article was posted, this is pretty much a wasted article.
@Leslie-
We are more than comics, and an eventful day like that deserves to be acknowledged somehow.
And this would apply, for Fawcett’s ties to the Charlie’s Angels property, and for Jackson- his known love of comic books, the Captain EO flick, and the Moonwalker game, all of which would suggest a place here.
Even if he was a perv.
Gary,
Gandhi Hates Witches. You know what he always use to say, “Witches get stitches, bitches! Boo YA!”
~ Stephen
I find it interesting that I wrote majority of this article on Farrah yet all anyone is discussing is Jackson. Furthermore why Leslie would question the grounds on our site covering these events when our headline clearly states ‘YOUR WINDOW TO THE POP CULTURE WORLD’.
This year was easily the best year we went. It’s going to be hard to top this next year.
Seems like i’m the odd ball out here but I feel like i’m in no place to judge him for his acts. Yeah … i feel like he did it. But i also feel like Andy Dick should have been shot years ago too. I’m not privy to the facts of the case and feel just as strongly that the family could have been trying to milk a celebrity for some money. I don’t trust MJ but i’m not going to pass judgement on him … because that’s why we have courts.
I do have to admit .. with every court case that came out, i started to care less and less for the impact of his music. As far as musical impact goes … his death is a shame. As far as the person goes … i could care less.
@Victoria- I think the heat that Fawcett received over her decision on how to spend her final days was bullshit. That was absolute bravery on her part, and made a hell of a strong statement on the need for more medical research.
@Brian- The courts are not at all dependable though. Because he bought off his accusers, the charges were dropped, which meant that conviction was out of the question. As far as judging him or anyone goes, how fair is it to give praise and not critique? Where is the integrity there? Even if I were a fan, I would still think the known crimes and sins should bear weight on his memory. Good and Evil do not really exist outside of ideals.
Everybody is a mixed bag of tricks, without exception. To focus on only one side of a person is to deny that they are three dimensional.
What you say is very true. However I, personally, haven’t seen enough to damn/vindicate him or the accusers completely. Too many strange things on both sides of the fence for me. I feel that, yeah, he probably did it … but I’m not sure that i can go around saying that as a matter of fact as most people are in this controversy. All i’m saying is that i see alot of people stating their opinion as fact on this subject (especially on the radio). I understand people are passionate about the topic but i would hope that they can realize that most of us are only seeing the situation from outside the courtroom (and across the parking lot) and know that all the answers that people not involved can give are guesses/assumptions at best.
well, his music, is not something I was ever really enjoyed, but I understand how he inspired others, those in which I really enjoy… but on his personal life.. eh, I hope in the end he’s judged by someone UPTHERE, thats’s when the truth is told.
Now, Farrah… a beautiful woman, who will be missed!
I AM SO BUYING THIS! However, once again, i’m only getting the cheep version. I own all of the DCAU (except Season 1 Zeta Project) and don’t see the need to pay extra to get episodes of a show i already own. I really wish Bruce Timm would stop putting episodes on these DVD’s that have had VERY SUCESSFUL releases already. He’s not bringing attention to them by adding these on … it’s just filler. What would be nice is if he went a head and added the missing cross over episodes of Static Shock and Zeta Project that were never released. I still want my Static shock meets Batman/Batman Beyond/JL/JLU/Superman episodes and my 1 missing Zeta Project meets Batman Beyond episode.
This new arc is starting out interesting, but overall I wonder how much longer this series can go on
The only one who has any authority to judge is God. I say the man is dead some people need to have some respect and let him rest in peace.
“One owes Respect to the Living. To the Dead, one owes only Truth.”
-Voltaire
I think the flaming needs to stop. How many times are particular individuals going to voice their opinion especially when it’s the same opinion? This isn’t a debate; if people think he’s guilty that’s fine; we are all entitled to our own opinion but you also don’t need to jump down EVERYONE’S throat who think otherwise.
I agree. Everyone has their own opinion, you shouldn’t have to jump on everyone who thinks different than you do. Thats immature. You DON”T know the truth, you were NOT there, you don’t know all the details, so I say you think he was gulity thats fine but unless you were there and know all the FACTS you should let people think what they want. No one will EVER do what that man did to the music industry. What went on in his personal life is just as I said it, HIS personal life. I’m sure theres things you’ve done that you shouldn’t have its just not all over the news like his life was! I think its horrible if he did do those things to those childeren, I’m a mother myself and can’t even imagine. But his job was to entertain & make music. Those things he did great. I grew up with him and I remember the milestones he accomplished not the wrong things he did. When someone passes do you sit there and talk about the bad things they did? If so you need to be checked, thats just not healthy.
I am glad you posted that today. Last night, I discovered “Merlin” on http://hulu.com and added it to my queue. They are only allowed to host 5 episodes at a time, but right now they have the first 5 up so if anyone is interested in checking it out there, now’s the time!
You’re a great writer, Richard! I’m getting a copy of this!
I finally got around to reading this comic and found that I really enjoyed it. As you stated above, it had a different feel. It was fresh, so to speak. It’s well worth picking up.
They 0 issue is an awesome set up issue for the smack down about to happen! I loved the bios on the characters in the back and i bought both covers for that connecter picture. It’s really good.
I love how they raised the price and give you less for your money. The first two seasons were sold for $17 each and had 16 episodes. Now these are 15 and 14 episodes and sold for $23 each. Ah Marvel … you sure know how to rip a fellow off.
Though neither of these people (save maybe Billy Mays) mattered much to me, I liked how Jon Stewart put it “apparently everyone who meant anything to anyone died this weekend”
Richard,
Sounds awesome!!
Do you know if they’ll be at comic-con?
this sounds f’in awesome! where can i get this?
@matt- keep your eyes on the Arcana site for release and order info. Personally, between the Fro book, my friend Bobby Nash’s upcoming Yin Yang GN, and especially this- Arcana is looking downright sexy right now.
[...] Jim Henson Company & Archaia Team Up : [...]
This looks totally awesome! I really hope they don’t hold back on the brutal fight scenes– especially the World’s Finest vs. Captain Marvel and Hawkman! Thanks for the post!
Nice Bluewater, cashing in on pop culture and whatever is in the news.
Who needs to pay their creators anyhow? Just turn on the boobtube and the stuff creates itself. Apparently.
I am so wasted right now so i hope you can appreciate how hard it is for me to type. I loved this issue and that’s noot the vodka talking. It was one of the most action packed issues i’be read from wonderland in a while(since Beyond was a little slow but still good). Big actiona and good story.
I love your articles baby … kepp up pth good work.
[...] ComicNews.Info [...]
Richard,
) Thanks again. Dave West.
Thanks for your support, as you say we really need to raise our profile in the USA if we are to continue to be listed by Diamond. It’s a shame that they’ve raised the bar at this time as we are just beginning to grow globally and these things take time. We’ve some great projects ready to be printed and are waiting on the situation with Diamond before we decide on numbers. If we don’t get the Diamond orders we will continue but will be pushed back into the UK and that’s a real shame as our intention has always been to bring the work of new creators to as wide an audience as possible … supported as you say by a number of professionals. I’ll be keeping my fingers crossed but articles like this will I think be more effective
*falls out of chair laughing* Your comment is brilliant! So that’s what you did after I passed out from drinking too much! Priceless comment!
Sweet interview. Bob is by far one of the funniest guys working at DC … him and Mike Carlin.
Next year, you should dress as Isis just to support Black Adam.
Mmmm..love the idea of cosplaying Isis. Been thinking of that for a while now:)
[...] You can read our review of G.I.Joe Season 1.1DVD here. [...]
I found this first box set at Half Price Books for $7. Some of it’s cheesy. Some of it’s crappy, but it’s still fun to watch.
Ever notice how Jetta’s hair changes from brown in one episode to black in another?
Good review.
You forgot to mention that the narration at the beginning of each episode is reminiscent of the old news reels that would be shown in movie theaters before the feature started.
I love Ahsoka, but I can’t help but wonder, what is the Jedi Council thinking when giving Anakin a Padewan? At this point, he has clearly established he’s headstrong and rebellious, frustrating the Council at every turn. Is it really a good idea to let him teach someone else? Oh, and don’t assume she’ll end up dead in the Purge. I wouldn’t be surprised if she ends up being one of the many that escape into hiding.
As a finale villain, Bane didn’t work for me. His blatant Western roots made him stick out like a sore thumb in the Star Wars universe. I would’ve liked to have seen someone scarier.
Still, I hope the first season gets a complete blu ray release soon.
Is it not enough that he’s been cast as Wade Wilson AND Hannibal King? He’s not an actor, he’s a comedian. And last I heard Green Lantern Hal Jordan was a serious role. Hey I got an idea. He can be Green Lantern. Green Lantern G’Nort
sadly, I can’t make it to Comic Con… I live tooo far away… but I can’t wait to be able to pick up Grim #40!
Please consider skipping this event because it is located at the Manchester Grand Hyatt which is the subject of a boycott by major civil rights, travel planners, convention planners and unions for it’s financial support of Prop 8.
NO. I am playing G’nort, or I will destroy the world.
Perhaps Marvel is finally ending ULTIMATE X-MEN after Robert Kirkman ran it into the ground beyond any form of repair.
Wonderland is a very good series, worth reading. It is without a doubt one of the top comic book series i’ve read in a while. My opinon is to go out and give it a chance, your probley won’t regret it.
i don’t really know if kirkman (or any of the writers or artists) at marvel or dc really have THAT much power or say in any of their books. so i don’t think it’d be right to blame him. but i do know that marvel’s been planning on “ending” their ultimate line for some time now.
Wow, Richard. Thanks a lot for the kind words. Beautifully written review by the way.
The biggest difference between passion and ambition is that passion controls you.
Well then I get to be that Red Lantern cat.
Totally agree on cartoons (with a couple of exceptions). We’re working on a cartoon right now with similar nuttiness
You better not be lying to me here. I WILL BE LOOKING FOR THIS.
Richard, Thanks for taking the time to review one of our books, and it’s reassuring to see that the quality of the book supported your earlier posting on getting the book into US stores … the number of orders in the US were low, but sufficient to get Diamond to send them over … we’re always open to re-orders mind .. so if people can’t find a copy then please get your local comic emporium to order one for you through Diamond … well .. I’m off now to finish my PREDATORS contribution … next years anthology … Dave W
Great advice!
love it!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!an Megan Fox
Richard,
As the writer you never know what the artist will do with a script but the last thing you want to do is meddle in their creative world … I couldn’t help but smile at every page that Marleen sent through … she nailed everything I wanted and more … as you say I’m sure that there’s nothing that I could write that she wouldn’t illustrate perfectly …. she really brought this tale alive.
You review is right on the money and highlights exactly what we attempted to do with this tale … I’m glad it worked so well for you … thanks for reviewing it for us.
All the best, Dave West.
Thanks, Victoria.
WOW.
And with the new acting Editor in Chief at newsarama being married to a DC editor, my claim is even more validated.
do I have an interview coming soon with the star, the guy voicing Peter Parker/Spider-Man?
maaaaaybe.
[...] Caldwell over at ComicNews.info interviewed me about Sergeant Zero and my work in comics, pulp, books and newspapers…generally everything I’ve done up [...]
Great interviews, gents. I love Anthony’s work and eagerly await the news that it has found a publishing home.
Bobby
What a fantastic interview! I’ve known Anthony for years and learned some stuff about him through this that I never knew.
You’re a pleasure to work with, Anthony!
-Dave
it doesnt feel like comic con 4 me…. the color the presentation whats on it, it wouldve been nice if alex ross did 1 this year again
Fantastic interview! Way to go Anthony.
I agree, the best thing anyone in any industry can do is…treat everyone with an equal respect! It goes a LONG way to building strong connections. You’ve done well with that
Congratulations!
LilyHawk
Mistress of Creative Mischief
http://www.gothicblend.net
Great interview, Anthony! Sounds like you’ve had an interesting career so far. I can’t wait to see what the future holds for you.
Also, man, I can’t wait to read Sgt. Zero. It’s a beautiful looking book, and I don’t doubt the script is fantastic.
Good-lookin’ cover there, too.
–Steve
Thanks for the kind words everyone. I really do appreciate them.
Steve did the amazing colors on the Sergeant Zero cover posted above.
Now go spread the word! There’s much more to come.
Damn! I am left nearly speechless to your tirade of needed babbling for the greater good. True. We people have become fattened in our ways over the past decades. Comic book industry too. Comic Con is a joke which has been taken over by Hollywood “elite” the likes of Nicolas Cage and Nick Simmons. Where along the brightened path did we lose our way of righteousness and power? When did we become the enemy? And how, might we rightfully take back the chains that now enslave us and ours, and force them upon the ideals we know as the almighty dollar? The revolution is upon us. We just have to know when to duck and cover and when to wield our tools. Cause as Ani DiFranco says, “every tool is a weapon if you hold it right.” And my brothers and sisters. We must now take back what was ours. We must make it ours again. And sometimes you have to move backwards in order to have that future.
That is a wee bland, ain’t it?
Did anyone know that there was a Marvel Comics based game called Mugen? Its a free game and features Spiderman, X-men, The Avengers and more. There is like Spidermna, Venom, Carnage, Armored Spiderman, Symbiote Spiderman and too many more to mention. You can ploay as the good guys or the bad guys. Anyhow, I thought this would be a relevant post and get some more people into playing Mugen since you can create your own Marvel characters or modify the existing ones.
That’s certainly a lot to chew on Richard. Finding a cheaper publishing alternative through outdated methods is a possibility I’ve often considered. But, in practice, as with everything, it can become quite daunting. Finding anyone with a functioning old-school offset is difficult, and older techniques for color separation can be VERY time consuming if you want any result more complex than a 60’s “flat color” look.
Which is not to say a product/concept where that sort of coloring might look “right” is out of the question. However, tastes have grown somewhat more sophisticated in the last 20 years. Art, generally, is expected to be more illustrative, and coloring has grown into a richer, more “painterly” approach. (This is not always executed effectively, of course, but it is still part of the equation.)
It is very easy for fans, escpecially younger fans with more changable tastes, to completely ignore anything that doesn’t conform to this more complex modern norm of comic book production.
And, unfortunately, the fanboy is still the largest comic-purchasing demographic available.
@john- Thanks. My “tirade of needed babbling for the greater good” was a bit of a ramble this time, even without the Guinness I was slamming while typing the final draft. The style was meant to suit the confusion of the “now”.
These are the main arguments I am hearing and reading where regards the state of things, and while I continue this line of thought from the last column on through the next few, I really aim to start coming up with more suggestions.
Like the saying goes, if you are not an active part of the solution then you are just another part of the problem. Anybody can bitch and moan. Anyone can tear down. Not everyone can build.
@sam- Thanks for checking out my thing here.
I know anything and everything time consuming goes against the short attention spans that our culture breeds, but I think there is always an exception to the rule, just as much as I believe a step back in the evolution of production methods may appeal to more than a couple of people out there, from nostalgic fans to creators who like a bit more sweat and burn in their craft.
All said, I really dig your idea of aiming the cheaper method at comics for kids/all-ages. Sure they may be less refined in their tastes, but again, there is that whole nostalgia thing which I worry sometimes many editors and publishers underestimate. This aside from Didio’s fondness of 70’s DC. How awesome would it be for Marvel’s Adventures line of all-ages comics to resort to methods like these? It would not hurt their sales, I’d bet- at the very least.
And there is the ongoing need for more kid-friendly reading materials anyhow, all across the board…
[...] I so agree with you on the last part. I recently wrote an article on ComicNews.info about never quitting. It’s something that you shouldn’t do even if you failed a thousand [...]
This read was just as good as you made it seem, Richard. Well done. I love it when a comic can be exciting, inspiring and bittersweet at the same time. Stories like this make me want to write comics.
Hell yea for Shooter!
The scariest three words you wrote here are Jon and Kate.” I’ve never seen the show and never plan to. I hate people who have that many kids and they deserve to be sucked dry by the TV vampires who devour them. The kids, of course, will grow up to be child molesters and serial rapists, who will have their own show by that point. Hopefully the kids of the Octomom will fight the kids of Jon and Kate and we’ll have a bloodbath on our hands.
Well, I need to say that Ultimate X-Men and The Ultimates suffered bad sales because both Robert Kirkman and Jeph Loeb squeezed the cool out of both of them. Out went the reinvention and in came the stale BAM/SOCK/POW crap that’s dragging the medium down.
Bendis is a rare gem, though. I look forward to the TPB of the new volume.
My two favorite quotes in this chapter:
Anyone can destroy, but very few can build.
Cycles. Beautiful cycles, is all that living ever was and ever will be.
I saw the movie with my 14 yr old son and I thought it was FANTASTIC not to mention the fact that there are now possibilities of future STAR TREK movies to be made ! (Within the very near future, I HOPE?) I am really looking forward to the movie coming out on DVD. All that I can say is “Keep up the gfeat work and please keep it going”
I think a lot of the credit for the justified hype around Boom’s titles should go to Chip Mosher, who’s tireless in his promotion of all of Boom’s books–not just the easier-to-sell ones like Waid’s work. Mosher, Waid, and the rest of the gang over at Boom are committed to ALL of their titles, and treat each one as a unique and special opportunity to bring new readers into the fold.
If more publishers treated their books and readers like Boom does, the comics industry would be in far better place than it is now.
Is this going to be it for Spider-Woman? There will be no books released?
The whole reason why I read comics is to *not* have something controlled for me with voice-overs, so I can hold a book and admire it.
Talk about disappointment on my part.
[...] According to the Wordsmith, WE KILL MONSTERS is “…developing into a rich hybrid of horror, comedy, and drama.” You can read the whole review here: http://comicnews.info/?p=8825 [...]
Hey Its Sci Fi! Great first article man! Can’t wait too read more!
People are reading. Well, at least I am.
Sam, you are a rock.
I agree with a lot of what you said. As far as the contributors part I can understand where you are coming from but considering that this is a non-paying gig I don’t harbor any hard feelings over lack of contributions.
What does piss me off is when people duck and run, never to be heard from without as much as saying hi, bye or kiss my ass. I mean come on, what ever happened to common courtesy?
[...] know of Jay Thibault and Richard Serrao, right? They are the guncrazy hepcat Canucks who run Optimum Wound publishing, [...]
I really believe that comics journalism is far more difficult than many people realize, at least when done properly and professionally. Too many folks I’ve chatted with believe that anyone can pop out a review, etc.
Bullshit.
This is a trade. Trades have to be learned, generally with more than a little scar tissue along the way.
Of course, I am going to extremes though. Some people may just not have the time or interest that some of us do. Life gets in the way of life all the damn time.
[...] know of Jay Thibault and Richard Serrao, right? They are the guncrazy hepcat Canucks who run Optimum Wound publishing, makers of fine [...]
[...] friends at ComicNews.info is holding a kickass contest for signed copies of Optimum Wound Volume One as well as a page of original [...]
Keep on keeping on, man!
g-
Wow, this is SO true. I’m sharing this.
Jesus, Lady B- it’s like you’re writing at me here. And I really have a problem with saying “no” as well.
Very very sound words of wisdom!
Excellently conducted interview.
And now I am missing The Lost Room…
That debate over the validity of comics journalism is still kicking. I just proposed that “yellow” journalism is anything that sells nothing. How else could it be defined? What the hell is the difference between “tabloid” journalism and the proper?
I think a lot of articles and writers get the tabloid label wrongfully, all because they are not selling whatever is trendy that moment in time.
Actually I was thinking the same thing as Richard.
It’s kind of eerie actually. I could be a poster boy for the last two columns you produced.
Are you trying to tell me something?
Kidding!
I’m glad you guys are liking the column! I actually encountered this situation when I was redesigning my website. I swore I was able to do everything – logo concept, web design, copy writing, etc. I was completely wrong.
-Belkis
The blu-ray vertion sounds great im going to buy a blu-ray player just so i can get it hope it doesnt disapoint. Hope their making a new trek movie.
I’m planning on attending Pittsburgh Comicon. I just hope some, I know not all, but some of the names of stars for consideration I gave to Michael and Renee will attend. I’ve even had dreams in May and August about making sure to catch one in particular. I won’t say who but I really hope that Pittsburgh Comicon will make this dream come true. Saw a picture of the new Monroeville Convention Center looking at SteelCityCon.com. Looks very nice. Thank you.
[...] Comic News Info hat ein Interview mit den We kill Monsters Machern geführt [...]
Well assuming all of the artists and animators will be the same, I do not think the quality of Marvel cartoons will change, except I never really cared for spiderman on Disney anyhow. I am still a fan of the old Marvel comics cartoons.
I was informed recently that there will be at least 4 issues in this series and I will have a short 3 pager in each issue. Fun stuff. Thanks to everyone who picked up a copy.
Also, there will be a booksigning tour October 21 – 24 starting in Atlanta, GA and concluding in Greenville, SC.
Bobby
[...] ComicNews.Info – “Despite my inability to instantly adapt to the writing, I admit that Rebirth is a fun book. Issue #4 specifically has stuck with me, and it has more to do with the art than anything else.” [...]
I don’t think its a smart move on marvels side.
In light of your article, Bluewater offers this formal statement.
Recently Bluewater has endured a series of attacks regarding its business practices. Bluewater does not engage or condone any such underhanded or untoward activity and refute each and every allegation made against the company and me personally. Much of the perceived conflict comes from a handful of creatives who became disenchanted over the terms of their signed agreements and mistakenly believe they are owed compensation.
Because Bluewater is a small company, our business model is such that artists, writers, and colorists are paid if and when a property (single issue or trade paperback) becomes profitable. When prospective creatives are engaged to work on a property, they are informed of this up front and are asked to review the terms in the written contract. There is no coercion; no strong-armed tactics, no manipulating industry novices. When a book reaches profitability, defined by a specific number of sales, the creatives are paid according to the percentages contained in their contract.
It is unfortunate that not every book Bluewater publishes has reached the profitability threshold. Some, in fact, never sell more than 800 copies. Some are canceled by our national retail distributor Diamond. And some are not fit for publication because they do not meet a professional standard. But that is the risk Bluewater and the creative accepts. I respect the labor these artists, writers and colorists put into creating a title, and am more than willing to share in the profits. However, if a book does poorly, it is Bluewater that absorbs the overwhelming majority of the loss. Yes, there is a risk on behalf of the creatives as well, but they at least have a professional entry for their portfolio that can use to get other jobs in the industry.
It is also unfortunate that certain media types have questioned Bluewater’s credibility because they have chosen to take situations out of context or accuse the company of manipulating sales figures. This, of course is impossible, since the sales figures of every issue are a matter of record on the ICV2 site.
I understand that our business model is not for everybody. I understand that there are some people who feel they have been misled or cheated. However, every single person who is owed money that is contractually due has been paid. Many of the creatives noted in the articles that allege non-payment do not state fully why payments were not rendered. Some were fired from books for non-performance, some worked on titles that never reached profitability or were canceled, some have personal reasons to be vindictive. I feel badly that they made incorrect assumptions that led to ill-feelings and anger. I have, at different times, reached out to each of these people to explain the specifics of their situation. Some go away with an understanding; others do not. Because they disagree with the written terms of the contract or have a different interpretation of the events, does not make me a liar or a cheat. I will accept responsibility for not better managing a creative’s expectations, but each is made fully aware of all possibilities. I have never withheld a penny from any creative who was due payment.
There are also allegations regarding previous businesses in which I have been involved. It is true that TidalWave Productions declared bankruptcy in 2003. Many make assumptions and unbased claims as to why this happened; and all are wrong. The simple truth is that TidalWave could not sustain based on certain partners reneging on contracted terms. At the time, the company was a part-time endeavor and I worked a standard 9-to-5 job. This employment situation was also true with Bluewater until 2008. But the bottom line is people with no knowledge of the company’s administration, creative process or financial status make ill-informed or assumptive comments on some forum or blog that are treated as the gospel truth. This is how reputations get trashed.
Every business has its detractors. And people will believe what they choose. But despite the allegations, accusations, heresay, childish name-calling and angry gossip, Bluewater remains committed to producing quality comic books and graphic novels. It remains steadfast in its current business model of profit-sharing with a variety of talented creatives. And I remain resolute that Bluewater is, and shall continue to be, a reputable business that operates with integrity.
In light of your article, Bluewater offers this formal statement.
Recently Bluewater has endured a series of attacks regarding its business practices. Bluewater does not engage or condone any such underhanded or untoward activity and refute each and every allegation made against the company and me personally. Much of the perceived conflict comes from a handful of creatives who became disenchanted over the terms of their signed agreements and mistakenly believe they are owed compensation.
Because Bluewater is a small company, our business model is such that artists, writers, and colorists are paid if and when a property (single issue or trade paperback) becomes profitable. When prospective creatives are engaged to work on a property, they are informed of this up front and are asked to review the terms in the written contract. There is no coercion; no strong-armed tactics, no manipulating industry novices. When a book reaches profitability, defined by a specific number of sales, the creatives are paid according to the percentages contained in their contract.
It is unfortunate that not every book Bluewater publishes has reached the profitability threshold. Some, in fact, never sell more than 800 copies. Some are canceled by our national retail distributor Diamond. And some are not fit for publication because they do not meet a professional standard. But that is the risk Bluewater and the creative accepts. I respect the labor these artists, writers and colorists put into creating a title, and am more than willing to share in the profits. However, if a book does poorly, it is Bluewater that absorbs the overwhelming majority of the loss. Yes, there is a risk on behalf of the creatives as well, but they at least have a professional entry for their portfolio that can use to get other jobs in the industry.
It is also unfortunate that certain media types have questioned Bluewater’s credibility because they have chosen to take situations out of context or accuse the company of manipulating sales figures. This, of course is impossible, since the sales figures of every issue are a matter of record on the ICV2 site.
I understand that our business model is not for everybody. I understand that there are some people who feel they have been misled or cheated. However, every single person who is owed money that is contractually due has been paid. Many of the creatives noted in the articles that allege non-payment do not state fully why payments were not rendered. Some were fired from books for non-performance, some worked on titles that never reached profitability or were canceled, some have personal reasons to be vindictive. I feel badly that they made incorrect assumptions that led to ill-feelings and anger. I have, at different times, reached out to each of these people to explain the specifics of their situation. Some go away with an understanding; others do not. Because they disagree with the written terms of the contract or have a different interpretation of the events, does not make me a liar or a cheat. I will accept responsibility for not better managing a creative’s expectations, but each is made fully aware of all possibilities. I have never withheld a penny from any creative who was due payment.
There are also allegations regarding previous businesses in which I have been involved. It is true that TidalWave Productions declared bankruptcy in 2003. Many make assumptions and unbased claims as to why this happened; and all are wrong. The simple truth is that TidalWave could not sustain based on certain partners reneging on contracted terms. At the time, the company was a part-time endeavor and I worked a standard 9-to-5 job. This employment situation was also true with Bluewater until 2008. But the bottom line is people with no knowledge of the company’s administration, creative process or financial status make ill-informed or assumptive comments on some forum or blog that are treated as the gospel truth. This is how reputations get trashed.
Every business has its detractors. And people will believe what they choose. But despite the allegations, accusations, heresay, childish name-calling and angry gossip, Bluewater remains committed to producing quality comic books and graphic novels. It remains steadfast in its current business model of profit-sharing with a variety of talented creatives. And I remain resolute that Bluewater is, and shall continue to be, a reputable business that operates with integrity.
Sounds like a good book. The art is awesome. Reminds me of Eisner. I gotta get The Bomb tpb and then get the Special Edition of Fearless Dawn #1.
This Surman guy doesn’t know what he’s talking about…I don’t know why Comic News even bothers keeping him around.
[...] know of Jay Thibault and Richard Serrao, right? They are the guncrazy hepcat Canucks who run Optimum Wound publishing, [...]
Wow, Joe Kubert is a huge catch for the convention! He’s been in the industry practically forever!
Well I just hope that the action in Spiderman does not become overly friendly with the whole Disney theme. Marvel Spiderman comics were meant to be cool and filled with action and not a whole lot of oh Im sorry I wont hit you, here is a spider net like the one you use to see on electric company instead. lol
He will be at the Big Apple Con as well.
Joe really is one busy dood.
[...] know of Jay Thibault and Richard Serrao, right? They are the guncrazy hepcat Canucks who run Optimum Wound publishing, makers of fine [...]
Good freakin’ review. Yeah Alex really is all over the place. That is my distant twin brother from two other mothers who later decided to become lovers before separating from one another then finding an oppisite other….lol.
Anyways. I support this guy and we try to motivate each other and hopefully one day in the future we’ll become Kevin Smith and Frank Miller (being that these two are involved in comics and film) and set across from each other laughing about old times while a nice pretty young intern brings us coffee.
He’s keeping things moving at Approbation headquarters while I’m trying to stay a float over at Dream Realm Ent studios. (SAME STUDIO!) Lol. Hopefully in the near future the comics and film pays off and we’ll all be reconized and rewarded for our long overnight hours we’ve put in over the years, while preaching to newcomers how we got started. I hope our projects become way bigger than us both and then we’ll know for shure that all the agony, frustration, blood, sweat, and beers has finally paid off. Until then, we’ll keep pooring our hearts and creative mental juices into everything we do. Thank you all for staying by our sides and thank you Alex for being a close friend and mentioning me in such an entertaining interview.
-Ant’juan “Avri Apocalypse”.
Founder of Dream Realm Entertainment.
Right on!
You guys rock! Thanks for spreading the word.
Bobby
Bobby, you are part of the family here.
And the book looks frakking groovy!
Thanks, Richard. I’m so excited this one will finally come out. It was just a lot of fun.
Bobby
I love the book! It was my first exposure to books from Radical Comics, those boys and girls are producing some quality work. Loved the whole package:art, colors, letters and story!
g-
I love your site.
Love design!!! I just came across your blog and wanted to say that I?ve really enjoyed browsing your blog posts. Sign: ndsam
I always liked Cable…=)
this looks awsome
[...] That’s what Steve Surman at Comic News Info has to say about issue #3 of WE KILL MONSTERS. You can read his whole review here: http://comicnews.info/?p=9395 [...]
This Surman guy is such a clown…I don’t understand why Comic News still cuts him a check every month. Aren’t there any real journalists they could get to fill his position?
Cool review, I’m still waiting on my metal slip version from BestBuy to get here. I hope the series does return some day. We can’t be left with a cliff hanger like that.
i love Deadpool, he is one of the most awesome characterscomics have ever produced.
[...] Someone I’ve heard of added an interesting post today on Blog Archive Comic Book Review: Misery Depot #1Here’s a small reading [...]
So a timeboxed meeting will provide an hour to discuss a topic, the discussion is over hen the time runs out. ,
[...] mentioned a couple of different related Forty-Five books that you’d like to produce. It might be a little early to ask but is there any further news at this [...]
Nice man. Maybe something like one of those picks will happen one day.
[...] “Jon and Kate Plus Eight” has become just “Kate Plus Eight” (refresh your memory with my review of the first issue, and Joel McHale has his own show on network television. But, has “Incarnate,” the vampire [...]
Fabulous!! They should wear the HERO watch by STORM!
Wow, I had no idea there was a cartoon of him.
Thanks for spreading the word, gents.
Here’s a special deal Express Westersn is offering.
USA: http://davycrockettsalmanack.blogspot.com/2009/12/fistful-of-legends-special-pre-pub.html
Outside US: http://ijparnham.blogspot.com/2009/12/fistful-of-legends-extra-special-offer.html
A great deal just in time for the holidays.
Merry Christmas.
Bobby
http://cgi.ebay.com/DC-Comics-Presents-87-Superman-1st-Superboy-Prime_W0QQitemZ360218473760QQcmdZViewItemQQptZLH_DefaultDomain_0?hash=item53deb1b520
Here’s a copy of DC Comics Presents for a mere $7. Save $23!!!
Merry Christmas!
A “mere” $7 in a condition that calls for that price. Merry Christmas!
I loved this book. It’s in the vein of Watchmen and The Boys. Gritty and very cool.
Watch the video below then go to the link and read, “KILLED BY INNOCENCE.”
Based on a TRUE STORY in the old west, Rick Thorne’s new book will leave you spellbound.
READ IT FOR FREE!
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uhM8UL5aU5Q
So dude doesn’t have female children…and he probably should have thought about that angle before writing this because well, kind of makes him sound like an idiot.
In response to the above post by Mjar, this article is about nurturing reading habits in _children_, not in male children only. Though the author’s example uses a son as the child learning to read, the overall point of the article is still valid for both genders. Both boys and girls can, and should read comics. The implication that girls don’t read comics is completely false.
I like it fine enough WITH this caveat.
The closer it gets to a human silhouette, the more it looks like a set of Super Powered Pajamas. It is losing the fact that it is Armor and makes its abilities Less believable and more as if it is inimical to Stark as opposed to the machine.
Then again I miss the Old Armor he fought Sunfire the first time in (With the pointy mask) back in the late 70s, lol.
i am looking for translation handout.
Even “church ladies” would have no choice but to find this movie hilarious
I expected this movie to be extremely bad (as in not funny) but was pleasantly surprised.
Has to be one of the funniest movies of last year.
Well,
I don’t know either…it’s like someone is following the logic of: Superman – great. Batman – great. Therefore: Superman and Batman – great. But if we were to follow this logic, we would also have to enjoy meat with chocolate and other great – great combinations…