Republic of Replicants

DC in September

2011-06-12T11:26:00.019-05:00

The following is the line-up of DC's launch titles in September sorted by release date.
Titles in bold I plan on getting for certain. Titles in italics are others I'm interested in.

If I go all digital, I will be limiting myself to 3-5 books per week. If I continue ordering through DCBS, I will be pre-ordering all 52 and then trimming down to around 20.

I'm also considering pre-ordering the first month, reading those and then selecting the titles to go forward from there all digitally.

Aug. 31-
Justice League #1

Sept. 7-
Action Comics #1
Animal Man #1
Batgirl #1
Batwing #1
Detective Comics #1
Green Arrow #1
Hawk & Dove #1
Justice League International #1
OMAC #1
Sgt. Rock and the Men of War #1
Static Shock #1
Stormwatch #1
Swamp Thing #1

Sept. 14-
Batman & Robin #1
Batwoman #1
Deathstroke #1
Demon Knights #1
Frankenstein, Agent of SHADE #1
Green Lantern #1
Grifter #1
Legion Lost #1
Mister Terrific #1
Red Lanterns #1
Resurrection Man #1
Suicide Squad #1
Supergirl #1

Sept. 21-
Batman #1
Birds of Prey #1
Blue Beetle #1
Captain Atom #1
Catwoman #1
DC Universe Presents #1
Green Lantern Corps #1
Legion of Super-Heroes #1
Nightwing #1
Red Hood & the Outlaws #1
Superboy #1
Wonder Woman #1

Sept. 28-
All-Star Western #1
Aquaman #1
Batman: The Dark Knight #1
Blackhawks #1
Flash #1
Fury of Firestorm #1
Green Lantern:: The New Guardians #1
I, Vampire #1
Justice League Dark #1
Savage Hawkman #1
Superman #1
Teen Titans #1
Voodoo #1

Back -In a FLASH!

2011-05-24T18:36:00.010-05:00

DC Comics' FLASHPOINT series gives us a universe where the World's Greatest Heroes never formed the Justice League of America. Through the actions of the villainous Reverse-Flash, several well known heroes never came to be and more are radically changed. Written by Geoff Johns and illustrated by Andy Kubert, it promises to be a fascinating ride.

The five-issue Summer event follows the scarlet speedster, Flash, and the time-traveling Booster Gold as they try to bring order to the world that has been created and attempt to repair the anomalies to the time stream. Meanwhile, there's a war raging that involves Aquaman's Atlanteans and Wonder Woman's Furies (read Amazons) that further complicates matters. Other characters make appearances, as well, including a large role for Cyborg who fills in the void for Superman.

Geoff Johns brought new life to the GREEN LANTERN franchise back in 2004 and was partially responsible for the success of DC's JUSTICE SOCIETY OF AMERICA comic, featuring the precursor to the JLA. The group of mostly Golden Age characters never managed to sustain a title until 2000 and has been published regularly since then. In recent years Johns was the architect of BLACKEST NIGHT, one of DC's most ambitious and critically acclaimed events since the 1980s, as well as the follow-up, BRIGHTEST DAY. His FLASH series that spawned from that culminated with #12 and leads directly into FLASHPOINT.

Andy Kubert is one of the sons of legendary comic artist Joe Kubert. He and his brother, Adam, have both followed in their dad's footsteps and have each found success at DC and Marvel. Andy has made a name for himself while working on various BATMAN and X-Men titles.

Another creator worth mentioning is Dan Jurgens, writer and illustrator of BOOSTER GOLD - the only ongoing series that directly ties into what's going on in FLASHPOINT. Jurgens, the creator of Booster, laid his own bit of foundation for the story in the TIME MASTERS: VANISHING POINT mini-series that helped return Bruce Wayne as Batman. Reverse-Flash makes an appearance there that readies him for the role he takes in changing the world as we know it.

For an idea of how things have changed, a map has been produced that gives a lot of clues and raises more questions.

The Flashpoint event kicked off earlier this month with FLASHPOINT #1 and BOOSTER GOLD #44. Both issues have reportedly gone back to press for a second printing to meet demand.

Aside from those two titles, DC will be publishing several three-issue mini-series and one-shots to further explore the world the story takes place in-

FLASHPOINT: BATMAN - KNIGHT OF VENGEANCE #1–3, (written by Brian Azzarello, art by Eduardo Risso)
FLASHPOINT: SECRET SEVEN #1–3 (written by Peter Milligan, art by George Perez and Scott Koblish)
FLASHPOINT: ABIN SUR - THE GREEN LANTERN #1–3 (written by Adam Schlagman, art by Felipe Massafera)
FLASHPOINT: THE WORLD OF FLASHPOINT #1–3 (written by Rex Ogle, art by Paulo Siqueira)
FLASHPOINT: EMPEROR AQUAMAN #1–3 (written by Tony Bedard, art by Ardian Syaf and Vicente Cifuentes)
FLASHPOINT: DEATHSTROKE AND THE CURSE OF THE RAVAGER #1–3 (written by Jimmy Palmiotti, art by Joe Bennett and John Dell)
FLASHPOINT: FRANKENSTEIN AND THE CREATURES OF THE UNKNOWN #1–3 (written by Jeff Lemire, art by Ibraim Roberson)
FLASHPOINT: CITIZEN COLD #1–3 (written by Scott Kolins, art by Scott Kolins)
FLASHPOINT: WONDER WOMAN AND THE FURIES #1–3 (written by Dan Abnett and Andy Lanning, art by Scott Clark and David Beaty)
FLASHPOINT: DEADMAN AND THE FLYING GRAYSONS #1–3 (written by JT Krul, art by Mike Janin)
FLASHPOINT: LEGION OF DOOM #1–3 (written by Adam Glass, art by Rodeny Buchemi and Jose Marzan, Jr.)
FLASHPOINT: LOIS LANE AND THE RESISTANCE #1–3 (written by Dan Abnett and Andy Lanning, art by Eddy Nunez)
FLASHPOINT: THE OUTSIDER #1–3 (written by James Robinson, art by Javi Fernandez)
FLASHPOINT: KID FLASH LOST #1–3 (written by Sterling Gates, art by Oliver Nome)
FLASHPOINT: PROJECT SUPERMAN #1–3 (written by Scott Snyder and Lowell Francis, art by Gene Ha)
FLASHPOINT: HAL JORDAN #1–3 (written by Adam Schlagman, art by Ben Oliver)
FLASHPOINT: GRODD OF WAR #1 (written by Sean Ryan, art by Ig Guara)
FLASHPOINT: REVERSE-FLASH #1 (written by Scott Kolins, art by Joel Gomez)
FLASHPOINT: GREEN ARROW INDUSTRIES #1 (written by Pornsak Pichetshote, art by Mark Castiello)
FLASHPOINT: THE CANTERBURY CRICKET #1 (written by Mike Carlin, art by Rags Morales)

All of these start in June and conclude in August where DC has caused even more surprise by revealing that the final issue of FLASHPOINT will be the only comic solicited for the last week of that month. To promote the event, pins decorated with the symbols from each of the titles will be released. There are also plans to make the comics available digitally on their Comixology store four weeks after each one hits the stands.

Going forward from that there's a lot of speculation about what will become of DC's other books as the event makes its impact. The only thing known for certain is that every title currently being published is scheduled to have running storylines come to an end to make way for what's coming in September. Thoshttp://www.blogger.com/img/blank.gife that don't have storylines running feature one-off stories sort of as filler. Some comics are even getting two issues in August just to wrap things up.

Flashpoint looks to be an exciting time for DC to bring in new readers and the story has already created a buzz on the internet with fans predicting the outcome. While some comic shops are dreading the expected "top secret" and "classified" details surrounding the comics for September, many are also proclaiming how the event has generated a lot of interest.

More info about FLASHPOINT can be found on DC's official blog, The Source, where they are doing "Flashpoint Friday" every week for the duration of the storyline. Things are running fast and furious for the DC Universe and where it stops is a secret that is being closely guarded.

Virtual Comic Con April 2011 - Part Two

2011-04-08T01:14:00.036-05:00

For those of us who can't make it to a convention as often as we'd like...

Now you can pretend that you went to one.
(Clicking on Booth Logo will take you to their official websites and clicking on individual covers will take you directly to that item, sometimes with previews.)

In the viewing room 3 we have iFanboy and in room 4 we're showing Carnival of Souls.

Booth 011

Booth 012

Booth 013

Booth 014

Booth 015
lauren aczon: quickening force

Booth 016

Booth 017

Booth 018

Booth 019

Booth 020

Click here for booths 001-010 (Absurdunce, Academy of Art University, CerebusTV, Drawn and Quarterly, Dwarfstar Games, Fantagraphics, Hereville, Nerve Bomb, Pablo's Inferno, Plan 9 from Outer Space, Slave Labor Graphics, Top Shelf Comics)

Virtual Comic Con April 2011

2011-04-05T23:16:00.050-05:00

For those of us who can't make it to a convention as often as we'd like...

Now you can pretend that you went to one.
(Clicking on Booth Logo will take you to their official websites and clicking on individual covers will take you directly to that item, sometimes with previews.)

In the viewing room 1 we have Dave Sim's CerebusTV and in room 2 we're showing Plan 9 From Outer Space.

Booth 001

Booth 002

Booth 003

Booth 004

Booth 005

Booth 006

Booth 007

Booth 008

Booth 009

Booth 010

Work in progress... Adding more booths later. If anyone wants to be added to list leave a comment with a link to your site. Thanks.

Click here for booths 011-020 ('Nuther World Comics, 2000 AD, Amya, Anthology 451, Carnival of Souls, Desert Island, iFanboy, Lauren Aczon, NBM, The Anthology Project, Toilet Genie, Tribe Studios)

The Next Big Thing?

2011-03-22T22:06:00.007-05:00

Dark Horse Comics is bringing back their flagship title, DARK HORSE PRESENTS as an 80-page, bi-monthly anthology.

The first issue hits comic shops on April 20th and will include a new 300 prequel done by Frank Miller, who also provides one of the covers.

Here's what to expect in #1:
"The legendary, premiere anthology is back! The 80-page spectacular, Dark Horse Presents returns with all-new stories by Neal Adams, Howard Chaykin, and Richard Corben; a new Concrete story by Paul Chadwick, a new Crimson Empire story from the Star Wars universe, and an exclusive sneak peek of Frank Miller's highly-anticipated prequel to 300, Xerxes!

"The celebration continues with a brand-new, all-color Finder story by Carla Speed McNeil, a prose piece from science fiction legend Harlan Ellison, the return of Michael T. Gilbert's Mr. Monster, and much, much more!"

I have to say I'm really excited about the new series.

Then there's DC Comics' STRANGE ADVENTURES. Originally suspected to be a regular series, it turned out to be a one-shot but follows a similar format to DHP. Both titles are 80 pages for $7.99 and feature several original stories.

Could we be seeing a move towards more bulkier original anthologies? Maybe the companies have discovered that if you put quality material in a collection of original comics readers will be more likely to pick it up. Then you have the added bonus of exposing them to new characters or creators simply because it's already in their hands or on their shelf.

The real trick is quality lead material. MARVEL COMICS PRESENTS did well originally because of Weapon X. Then floundered when they stopped putting the bigger stories in it, instead choosing to bring them out as their own titles.

STRANGE ADVENTURES will have the debut of Brian Azarello and Eduardo Risso's new SPACEMAN series and DARK HORSE PRESENTS features Frank Miller doing a prequel to 300. Both of these are projects that could have very well been launched outside of the anthology books and having them headline these new titles shows that Dark Horse and DC are making a real effort.

I, for one, hope it's a trend that catches on. Perhaps when the next comic implosion happens they can use the format to consolidate several Batman books or X-Men books into one over-sized anthology.

The Bookshelf

2011-03-18T15:00:00.007-05:00

I just finished reading MAGGIE THE MECHANIC.

Next up: THE GIRL FROM H.O.P.P.E.R.S., TALES OF THE TEEN TITANS #50 and SWAMP THING VOLUME 1: SAGA OF THE SWAMP THING.

New Wonder Woman Costume

2011-03-18T14:39:00.003-05:00

Adrianne Palicki as Wonder Woman:

Go to Entertainment Weekly to check out all the details. There's mixed feelings from a lot of folks. I, myself, think it would be perfect if they make the pants a darker blue or just have her wear denim...

Previews Watch: TERRY MOORE HOW TO DRAW #1- WOMEN

2011-03-16T08:57:00.003-05:00

TERRY MOORE HOW TO DRAW #1 WOMEN
(W/A) Terry Moore Terry Moore is well known for his highly expressive comic art depicting realistic characters. Now his drawing secrets are revealed in a series of lessons discussing everything from anatomy to drawing tools, from body language to Photoshop, with comprehensive notes, tips and observations from the Eisner award-winning artist. The first lesson in this new quarterly series is Moore's specialty: drawing realistic women. Highly recommended for both amateurs and working professionals.
$3.99
DCBS price: $2.59

Definitely worth getting, if you ask me!

Spring is in the Air

2011-03-15T18:46:00.007-05:00

I love Springtime. It's probably my most favorite time of the year. The smell of freshly cut grass, the fluttering of butterflies, the promise of renewal...

It's been a while since I posted here but I'm glad folks are still following. I've been giving some thought as to what I wanted to focus on with my blog. Granted, it's been going for quite some time without any real direction but being an indie comic creator I feel I could use this space to shine a light on that scene.

I may still mention the Legion of Super-Heroes as long as DC continues publishing them and Top Cow's Artifacts has gotten me hooked but I really want to draw attention to other folks like myself. And, of course, whenever I have news about my own comics I will throw that in, too.

I'm going to attempt to make this a weekly affair. There will be a post every Tuesday but I may sprinkle in things throughout the week.

A few items of note:

1. I don't have a local comic shop. The closest one to me is Ground Zero Comics, which is over fifty miles away. I do highly recommend them if you are in the area, however. Dave is really cool.

That in mind, I purchase my comics online through the following places:

DCBS (Discount Comic Book Service) - new comic pre-orders
MyComicShop - back-orders
Amazon.com - trade paperbacks
Fantagraphics - special deals

2. The news sources I follow the most are Newsarama, Comics Continuum and Comic Book Resources.
However, news straight from the horse's mouth can be found at Fantagraphics, SLG Publishing, Drawn and Quarterly and Top Shelf Productions.

I also stop by Coverless on occasion. Well worth checking out.

3. My own comic series, 'Nuther World Comics can be found for free over at Clickwheel. Even though I do put price tags on the physical copies I always end up just handing them out for free whenever I go to a con. I get giddy when another creator gives me one in return. :-)

4. I'm currently reading MAGGIE THE MECHANIC by Jaime Hernandez (Fantagraphics). I've bought a lot of things recently that I need to get to -but my first priority right now is to read all the Love and Rockets books.

Jaime is one of my favorite artists and one of my prize possessions is TEN YEARS OF LOVE AND ROCKETS, a special that was put out to celebrate the 10th Anniversary of the long running series. In it, brothers Jaime and Gilbert discuss their methods for creating the comic.

Something else I want to focus on this week is a list of sites for either consignment or "print on demand".

Consignment deals are where a shop will sell your comic or mini-comic for you and you get a percentage of the sell. The places I've discovered so far are:
Desert Island
Quimby's Bookstore
Chicago Comics
Atomic Books
Comic Relief
IndyPlanet

Here's a good write-up about mini-comics and here's a nice article on selling on consignment.

What about "print on demand" now?

Well, there's IndyPlanet, again, but I've heard great things about Comixpress.

I've found that printing your mini-comic at a local place, like Office Depot is good, too, as you can have them done in an hour or two. Especially useful if you're heading to a con and short on time.

That's it for now. I'll be back next Tuesday with some more ramblings.

Twitter me!

Top Cow's Artifacts- Worth Hunting For

2011-01-16T20:36:00.014-06:00

TO BRING ABOUT THE END OF THE WORLD...
This would be one of those instances where the digital comic led me to purchase the physical copies...

I read ARTIFACTS #0 on my droid through Comixology and it seemed like a great new-reader friendly storyline. I then purchased the digital edition of #1 and was hooked. However, #2 has still yet to appear on the app (even though it is available digitally over at DCBS' My Digital Comics site). This left me choosing to just move on...

But then I came across #3 when I went out of town a couple weeks ago and have since decided to buy the series in paper form, ordering the issues I've missed through My Comic Shop.

Basically, the premise of the storyline is that there's thirteen mystical artifacts floating around the Top Cow Universe and somebody is trying to collect them all. Once they are all brought together it will trigger the end of said universe. Simple as that.

The Witchblade and the Darkness are two of these artifacts and background for the rest have been set up over the last five years, with the exception of the thirteenth artifact. During the course of the series these items will change hands and the last artifact will be revealed.

LAYING IT ALL OUT
The master architect of this grand thirteen-issue event which will also involve Cyberforce, Angelus and Magdalena is Ron Marz. Marz is no stranger to cosmic sweeping stories and has been the head writer of Top Cow's Universe related titles for quite some time.

He first garnered attention writing SILVER SURFER for Marvel and progressed from there to DC's GREEN LANTERN title. During his tenure on LANTERN he chronicled the turn of Hal Jordan into a villain and the introduction of Kyle Rayner to the Corps.

Marz also was one of the lead writers at Crossgen at the ill-fated company's launch, writing both MYSTIC and SCION. He was also the writer for the critically-acclaimed series SOJOURN that brought fame to the art of Greg Land.

ARTIFACTS shares a few similarities with the Crossgen Universe as each of the major characters are bearers of one (or more) of the artifacts. These artifacts give the owners powers (much like the sigils did) and the story centers around the thirteen artifacts being brought together (the main purpose of Arwyn's adventures in SOJOURN).
The key difference is that unlike in SOJOURN, the artifacts being brought together would be a bad thing.

MORE THAN WHAT MEETS THE EYE
I never really cared for WITCHBLADE before. I don't think I ever gave it much of a chance. Back when I first saw the character she appeared to be mostly marketed by t&a covers and art so I quickly wrote her off.

Recently, I purchased WITCHBLADE #139. A follow-up to ARTIFACTS #1, it features the incredible art of Michael Gaydos and gives us a pretty good idea of the character's standing in the world. Totally different from what I would have expected if you had asked my opinion years ago.
While the Top Cow Universe could still definitely use a few more male characters, what I've seen so far has changed my view of the line.

The promise of Cyberforce coming along soon in the story interests me as that may be what will balance it out. Plus, I'm really intrigued about how Marz is going to mix the mystical theme of the comic with these sci-fi characters. So far Aphrodite IV's involvement has been key and I'm sure he will work them in just fine.

NO TIME LIKE THE RIGHT TIME
I've always seemed to come in too late with comics. In the last few years the only family of books that I've kept up with on a regular basis have been the LEGION titles.

I tried a couple years ago to get into GREEN LANTERN, starting with REBIRTH... I got up to #11 and then issues started getting hard to find or too expensive. And when BLACKEST NIGHT hit, I was made aware of all the cross-overs that were in my future I just dropped it.

I had the same problem with Marvel's Cosmic books as I came into those much too late, also, and I prefer the original comics as opposed to the trade paperbacks. With NOVA and GUARDIANS OF THE GALAXY both well underway, I gave up on them before I made it past ANNIHLATION.

This time, however, I'm jumping on board right on time and going forward with Top Cow's ARTIFACTS. I've already picked out a starting point on both THE DARKNESS and WITHCBLADE, as well, so I'll be following those from here on out.

To read ARTIFACTS #1 and 2 online go to My Digital Comics. You can also view #0 there or over here.

To wet your appetite, here are previews of #1, 2 and 3.

And here's a bit of handy information regarding the artifacts, including a list of current owners. Warning: there are spoilers.

Young Justice First Episode Online

2011-01-15T19:34:00.008-06:00

You can view the first episode of Young Justice online at Cartoon Network's official website.

Right now I give the series 3 out of 5 stars.
It doesn't have the flashy style of either Teen Titans or Batman: Brave and the Bold. However, the less cartoony art may bring in more of the anime crowd.

"Independence Day, Part 1" features Robin, Kid Flash, Aqualad and Speedy on their first visit to the Hall of Justice (haven't seen THAT in years).
Batman, Green Arrow, Flash, Aquaman, Martian Manhunter, and Red Tornado appear for a while before leaving to handle an emergency. The younger heroes (sans Speedy, who left after throwing some attitude) decide to take on a mission that the League had to pass up for the more immediate threat and discovers a secret about Project Cadmus.

With appearances by Mr. Freeze, Captain Cold, Icicle Jr, Guardian, Superman and Zatara.

The original trailer:

Movie Trailers - Movies Blog

Spoiler: It also features the introduction of Superboy, who from the ads will become a member. This Superboy appears to be of the Conner variety but no word yet if he has both Superman and Luthor's genes or just Supes. From what is shown so far, one would assume that Luthor is left out of the equation for simplicity of the story.

I find it interesting that while the Aqualad is the new Brightest Day one, they're using Dick Grayson as Robin (and appears younger than all the others- 13 according to the website) and Wally West as Kid-Flash (age 15). Aqualad's identity is revealed as Kaldur' Ahm and is listed to be 16. For more information, including details about Miss Martian and Superboy, go to the website.

DC Comics is also releasing a comic series based on the show. This title will be self contained and have no bearing on any other comics.

**Upcoming episodes (on Cartoon Network)**

"Independence Day, Part 2" -Jan 16th 8PM Central
"Welcome to Happy Harbor"" -Jan 21st 7PM Central, Jan. 23rd 8PM Central
"Drop Zone" -Jan 28th 7PM Central

The Digital Debate

2011-01-15T15:32:00.013-06:00

THE DIGITAL DOWNLOW
If you've been following any of the comics news sources this last week you would've undoubtedly heard about Archie Comics' decision to go "same day digital" (previously referred to as "day-and-date"). This means their comics will be available on digital devices the same day as it comes out in paper. It has sparked a lot of controversy over whether or not it was a good move. And for who?

Before I begin with this let me say that I love paper comics and I've been reading them ever since I was a kid. I read countless comics before I understood the idea of "collecting" and it wasn't until Marvel's Contest of Champions back in 1982 that I actually started to keep up with them.

Back then you could walk into any convenience store or grocery store and spot a spinner rack of comics just waiting to grab your attention.

Things have changed a lot since then and comics have become more or less a "niche" medium after moving into stores that specialize in them. This happened around the late 1980s with the direct market.

The appeal of the direct market was that comic publishers didn't have to censor their stuff as much and they only had to cater to people who already knew what they were.

This also took them away from the general public.

HEAR THAT? THOSE ARE CRICKETS...
I live in a small town where we have three grocery stores and a Walmart Supercenter. There are no book stores or record stores for at least fifty miles.

When I was a kid and I made my weekly (or even *daily*) trips to the convenience store I did so by either walking or riding my bike. No kid can walk or ride a bike that far. At least not safely.

I recall last year I had a lady in my store with her two daughters. I would guess they were around 14 to 16 years old. I asked if they read anything. They replied, "Yeah... text messages!"

The thing is... in areas like mine kids don't read. They haven't in years. Unless they're told to for school.

The books and magazines sold at Walmart are not geared towards them. There's the workout mags, the gun & ammo mags, the cooking mags, the celebrity tabloids... but nothing for them aside from the Harry Potter books. And if there hadn't been a movie, they wouldn't be there either.

The digital age of comics may be what will entice new readers to check them out. It's a format that the current generation understands. Almost everything today is either smartphone-friendly or making moves to jump on before they get left behind. Comics are no exception.

A lot of people worry that it will bring an end to the direct market and cause more problems than it's worth.

BUY NOW OR WAIT LATER
One major change will be availability. If you happen to walk into a comic shop, you may see twenty copies of the latest X-Men book and maybe even a random issue of John Doe's indie comic.

What happens when the indie comic has the same reach as X-Men? What happens when a reader who passes on X-Men #3 and 5 because #4 isn't there has all three available..?

One of the biggest complaints I've ever had with the direct market is that if you discover something... You're already behind because -even though you have the latest issue- the next available issue to pre-order is months away. This means if there's no local comic shop you have to wait and back-order them or hope that you come across them at a later time.

Another complaint is the whole "buying on faith". Anyone who's ordered from Previews knows this. A new book is coming out and you think you may be interested. But all that's available is a short blurb and a cover (done by someone other than the regular artist). You could go ahead and pre-order it but... you'll have to order the next two issues before the first one even arrives at the store. And then you get it... It sucks... but you've already ordered two more...

Granted, you can flip through a whole comic at the shop and not buy it at all. Or pick it up if you like it. The sampling before you buy aspect is one of the best features of comic shops.

However, a lot of publishers are releasing previews that you can get for free before buying digital.

ME ME ME
Sometimes, I think it's funny how comics went from being something a select few were constantly advocating their relevance and shouting "Read these! They really are good!" to folks withdrawing and recoiling adding "But only if you get them from me!"

We shouldn't be fighting over who gets the privilege of bringing the art of comics to a new audience. We should be embracing the new audience and be excited about where the future can take us.

Self-publishers, especially should take note because the people who are coming to read digital comics are coming fresh with only DC and Marvel's movie-related characters holding any advantage. The average Joe doesn't know Booster Gold from Captain Universe.

Walking Dead is already a digital hit that was spurred by both the excellent AMC series and the move to same day digital.

The digital comics field is a more level playing field right now and it's really anyone's ballgame.

ALL IS NOT LOST (OR... LOOK- READERS!)
Here's what I think the end result will be:

1. Yes, shops will be closing. Not all, however. The ones that are smart will move online or focus more on trades and comics/video game related merchandise. If they do that they will actually thrive. A lot of comic shops already put less money into single issues and only do pre-orders for customers.

2. I see more comics being moved to "same day digital" and even more titles being released "digital only" to see if they have an audience before printing. Something like Top Cow's Pilot Season would be a great candidate for this kind of approach.

3. I expect "floppies" (single issue comics) to slowly fade out, with the digital editions replacing them and then being collected into trade paperback (to be sold by that direct market). And then, if someone really wanted single issues "print-on-demand" could be incorporated here.

4. You'll get more impulse buys. Hell, I bought several comics digitally (that I probably wouldn't have planned to) in the last month just because they were accessible.

5. Kids (and adults) that before were too afraid to be seen reading a comic can read something on their phone without being criticized... And then if it's good they may even talk about it.

6. It may actually lead to more sales of paper comics. For example, I tried out Artifacts #0 and 1 on Comixology and I've ordered the actual comics up to #4 because of it (including a physical copy of #1).

Honestly, if the comic publishers really wanted to hinder the move to digital, they'd put the comics back on the newsstands and stop limiting the viewership.

Further reading:
Archie Going Same Day Digital
Comixology - the current leader in digital distribution.
Marvel's own digital store.
2000 AD Digital

Find me on twitter.

A Legion Primer

2011-01-09T16:51:00.004-06:00

The new LEGION OF SUPER-HEROES series will be entering it's second year this Spring with the promise of a major storyline shaping up in LEGION OF SUPER-VILLAINS #1.

Paul Levitz has returned to the book that he put on the map back in the '80s with his large cast of characters and mastery of plot development. The subplot design that he established back then has been coined the "Levitz Paradigm" and was even mentioned in Dennis O'Neil's DC COMICS' GUIDE TO WRITING COMICS as an example of subplot/plot progression.
Anyone studying to write comics would do good to learn from his ability to juggle several story-lines running simultaneously.

ADVENTURE COMICS, which Levitz took over the month following the launch of the new series, started off featuring the earlier years of the team back when they first began to work alongside Superboy. Starting with #521, however, the title is now a continuation of the main book and is planned to focus on the Legion Academy in future issues.

The Legion is a complex beast, complete with its own history and mythology. There's the United Planets, the Science Police, various worlds, aliens and customs, interlac (an inter-planetary alphabet)... things that are unique to it.

Then there's the Legion Constitution, the whole -boy. -girl, -lad, -lass thing that some people have trouble getting past, the leader elections (which is traditionally done by the readers and was just recently ran) and more.

Some folks would think that something this complicated would be hard to get new readers interested. I would have to disagree.
Star Trek, with just about as much history and alien knowledge, is probably the closest comparison one can draw. And new Star Trek fans spring up all the time. Some even know how to speak Klingon.

One of the biggest draws to the series is also one of its weaknesses. LEGION and ADVENTURE are separated from the regular DC Universe by about a thousand years and all of the characters are completely vulnerable to whatever the Levitz wants to do.
This benefits the book in the fact that anything can happen. Such as the destruction of Titan or the murder of Chief Zendak.
However, its isolation from the other DC comics also leads to fewer readers checking it out due to a lack of any direct connection. This, undoubtedly, has been a reason behind the recent Green Lantern story and the future Flashpoint tie-in may help, too.

If you're new to the Legion, don't be afraid to dive right in. A universe like this one is perpetual and you will likely have difficulty finding a "jump-on point" as there's always something going on.

If you can pick up the SUPERMAN AND THE LEGION OF SUPER-HEROES and LEGION OF THREE WORLDS trade paperbacks those would be a good start. Otherwise, just begin with #1 of the current run.
I would also recommend the WHO'S WHO IN THE LEGION OF SUPER-HEROES series that covered the members of the team, its supporting cast, history and anything and everything that's come before. The new LEGION series is said to begin sometime after Levitz's last run that ended in 1989. The WHO'S WHO books covered everything up to 1988. Which, in a relative sense, would be like it came out a couple years ago.

Crossgen Promo

2011-01-04T07:52:00.004-06:00

Crossgen promo art by Mitch Breitweiser.

Somehow I missed seeing this when it first appeared online...

Let's see what clues we have...
Ruse (obviously), Kiss Kiss Bang Bang, Route 666, Mystic, El Cazador...

Since Breitweiser is listed as a cover artist for RUSE #1, it's likely that this will be a variant cover for that issue.

Now on Twitter

2011-01-02T23:17:00.002-06:00

I finally broke down and joined Twitter,
You can find me here. Or just search for nwcomics.

2010: The Year in Digital Comics

2011-01-02T14:45:00.004-06:00

Comic Book Resources' Robot 6 took a look at what had to be the biggest year for the Digital Comics market.

Go here to read a month-by-month tracking of what all happened to get us to where we are now.

2010 Top Ten Digital Comics

2011-01-01T20:40:00.005-06:00

Comixology has released their lists for the top ten digital comics for 2010.

The top selling digital comic was WANTED #2

The top free comic download was THE WALKING DEAD #1

The top digital series was THE WALKING DEAD.

Go here to check out the rest of the top ten for each category.

Comixology Rings in the New Year with Batman

2011-01-01T00:11:00.004-06:00

DC just released almost 50 issues of BATMAN on Comixology at the turn of the calendar, including #700.

As part of their "Batman 101 on 1/01" sale, issues 600 thru 700 of BATMAN will be on sale for .99 each until 11PM Eastern Time.

Go to Comixology's website or access it from your iPhone or Droid to check it out!

My December Comixology Purchases

2010-12-31T09:00:00.004-06:00

These are the books that I have gotten this month through Comixology:

100 BULLETS #1, 2
ABYSS #1
ACTION PHILOSOPHERS: AYN RAND!
ARCHIE & FRIENDS ALL-STARS VOL. 1: VERONICA'S PASSPORT
ARCHIE & FRIENDS ALL-STARS VOL. 2: BETTY'S DIARY
ATOMIC ROBO #1
ATOMIC ROBO: THE DEADLY ART OF SCIENCE #1
BATMAN BEYOND #1
BATMAN: THE DARK KNIGHT RETURNS #1, 2
BIRDS OF PREY #56
BLACKEST NIGHT #0
BONNIE LASS #1
BUCKAROO BANZAI: RETURN OF THE SCREW #1
CAPTAIN ACTION #0
CAPTAIN BLOOD: ODYSSEY #1
CHEW #1
CLASSWAR #1
CONTRACT: SOLO MISSIONS JESSIE
DO ANDROIDS DREAM OF ELECTRIC SHEEP #1, 2
ELEPHANTMEN #1
GREEN LANTERN: REBIRTH #1
INVINCIBLE #1
KEVIN SMITH'S GREEN HORNET #1
MADMAN: FOR THE RECORD
STAR TREK KEY COLLECTION VOL.1 #1
THE ASTOUNDING WOLFMAN #1
THE BOYS #35
THE CLOCKWORK GIRL #1
THE STUFF OF LEGEND: PART 1
THE SERVANT PREVIEW
THE WALKING DEAD #1-4
VELOCITY #1
VINCENT PRICE PRESENTS #1

Comixology Reviews

2010-12-31T07:43:00.009-06:00

I'm playing catch-up on my reviews right now as I've bought or downloaded several comics over the last couple of weeks and I just haven't had the time to read or review with the holidays being so busy.

Here are more free comics that I checked out.

ATOMIC ROBO #1 (of 6) (Free)
(Brian Clevinger/Scott Wegener/Ronda Pattison/Jeff Powell; Red 5 Comics)

The action-science adventures of Nikola Tesla's automated intelligence machine begin in 1938. Atomic Robo is secretly hired by the U.S. Army to infiltrate the hidden Himalayan mountain base of Baron Heinrich Von Helsingard before he perfects a superweapon for the Nazis.

Atomic Robo really didn't appeal much to me. It's basically Hellboy with the personality of Deadpool. I just couldn't get into it.

I give it 3 out of 5 stars.

BUCKAROO BANZAI: RETURN OF THE SCREW #1 (Free)
(Joe Gentile/Mac Rauch/Stephen Thompson/Keith Williams; Moonstone)

Along with his Hong Kong Cavaliers, Buckaroo Banzai must battle more than one surprise arch enemy, each with their own motives, but all acting in concert to bring Banzai, and the universe as we know it, to their knees!

I guess the whole concept of Buckaroo Banzai is lost on me as I've never seen the movie and couldn't follow what was going on. It was kind of like having a dream that just has no meaning.

I give it 2 out of 5 stars.

CAPTAIN ACTION #0 (Free)
(Fabian Nicieza/Mark Sparacio; Moonstone)

The super spy master of disguise is back again for the first time! Led by the original Captain Action, the A.C.T.I.O.N. Directorate fought the Red Crawl for decades. The alien threat was thought long vanquished, so no one notices when Earth is conquered. Literally, no one notices it! He wakes up to learn the father who fired him is dead, and the job he never wanted is his. He has to save a world that doesn't know it needs saving. He has to reclaim his identity while impersonating others. He has to become the very thing he tried his entire life to avoid - Captain Action!

Nice premise: Aliens secretly take over planet using superpowers and only one man (with no powers) can stop them.

But...

I don't know if it's just the holidays or what but this was another book I just could not get into.

I give it 3 out of 5 stars.

CAPTAIN BLOOD: ODYSSEY #1 (Free)
(Matthew Shepherd/Michael Shoyket; SLG)

All Peter Blood wanted was to be left alone. A doctor living in 17th century England, Blood spends his days tending to his patients and reminiscing about his time adventuring through Europe. Blood soon winds up on the wrong side of a rebellion and is sentenced to ten years of hard labor on the island of Barbados. Escaping slavery, Blood begins his career as a pirate and becomes one of the most famous Pirates in the Caribbean as well as one of literature's best anti-heroes. Captain Blood: Odyssey is an adaptation of Rafael Sabatini's novel. Later adapted into the 1935 movie starring Errol Flynn, the 1922 book was a smash hit and launched numerous sequels. Adapted for the first time to comic book form, Captain Blood: Odyssey is a very faithful adaptation of the popular novel.

Finally! A free book that I liked this time.

In case you didn't catch the words "adaptation" or "adapted" in the blurb, this is a book rendered in comic form. The art alone is fantastic.

I give it 4 out of 5 stars.

THE ASTOUNDING WOLFMAN #1 (Free)
(Robert Kirkman/Jason Howard; Skybounnd)

Witness the birth of the world's most unlikely superhero: The Astounding Wolf-Man!

I really was hoping for better. I went into it expecting more. I guess because of how good WALKING DEAD is.

This issue was a basic introduction to the characters and gets the origin out of the way quickly. Unfortunately, it felt like that was the whole purpose and it really had nothing more to offer.

I give it 3 out of 5 stars.

Legion in March

2010-12-21T08:42:00.003-06:00

ADVENTURE COMICS #524

Written by Paul Levitz, art by Phil Jimenez and Andy Lanning, cover by Jimenez.
Levitz and Jimenez continue their "Legion Academy" arc starring Legionnaires in training! And the Taurus Gang resurfaces with dark ties to the Academy!
32 pages, $2.99, in stores on March 2.

LEGION OF SUPER-VILLAINS #1
Written by Paul Levitz, art and cover by Francis Portela.
This 31st century team of psychopaths returns! Now led by Saturn Queen, they break out of the prison world Takron-Galtos to wreak havoc on the United Planets. DCU fans won't want to miss this one-shot, which sets up a major 2011 storyline that'll shake the universe!
48 pages, $4.99, in stores on March 9.

LEGION OF SUPER-HEROES #11

Written by Paul Levitz, art and cover by Yildiray Cinar and Wayne Faucher.
A jam-packed extravaganza! Star Boy returns from the 21st century! Sensor Girl searches for Karate Kid! The team trails the escaped Legion of Super-Villains! And Saturn Girl seeks Harmonia Li's bloodâ€”and the reason why will shock you!
32 pages, $2.99, in stores on March 23.

Feel that..?
That's Excitement!

This has got to to be a great time for Legion fans.

With the Annual coming out shortly, it does seem that DC is really letting Levitz bring the team back to its prior glory.

More Comixology Reviews

2010-12-20T08:10:00.013-06:00

This time we look at my first batch of purchased comics. With so many to choose from and being my first week with the app on my phone... Which titles did I finally throw money down for..? Let me show you.

I'm planning to purchase ten more comics this week. These are the five I picked up yesterday.
A few of these I already own in material form. I've decided this would be a perfect opportunity to reread some great comics and create a digital collection, as well.

THE WALKING DEAD #2 ($1.99)
(Robert Kirkman/Tony Moore; Skybound)

Rick heads to Atlanta where he hopes to find his wife and son.

This issue see Rick make his way to Atlanta and discover how bad things have gotten.

I've already seen a few differences between the show and the comic which were probably added to make it more exciting for tv. The tank, for example, was a great addition that seemed to fit right in.

As far as the comic goes, the suspense from the first issue is carried over as we tag along with Rick and see things from his solitaire position.

And then there's the ending where things begin to look up.

The story and art again fits very well with the Comixology app, oftentimes enhancing the tension and mood of the comic by it's very nature.

THE WALKING DEAD is must reading if you have an iPhone or Droid.
I give it 5 out of 5 stars.

DO ANDROIDS DREAM OF ELECTRIC SHEEP? #1 ($1.99)
(Philip Dick/Tony Parker/Blond; Boom Studios)

The book that inspired the film Blade Runner comes to BOOM! with backmatter by Warren Ellis! Visionary sci-fi author Philip K. Dick's Do Androids Dream Of Electric Sheep? has been called 'a masterpiece ahead of its time, even today' and served as the basis for the Ridley Scott film Blade Runner. San Francisco lies under a cloud of radioactive dust. The World War killed millions, driving entire species to extinction, and sending mankind off-planet. Those who remained coveted any living creature, and for people who couldn't afford one, companies built incredibly realistic fakes: horses, birds, cats, sheep - even humans. Rick Deckard is an officially sanctioned bounty hunter tasked to find six rogue androids - they're machines, but look, sound, and think like humans, clever, and most of all, dangerous humans. Rick Deckard, Pris, The Voight-Kampff Test, Nexus 6 androids, the Tyrell Corporation: join BOOM! Studios as the complete novel transplanted into the comic book medium, mixing all new panel-to-panel...

DO ANDROIDS DREAM ABOUT ELECTRIC SHEEP? is a comic adaptation of the book that inspired the movie Blade Runner. Any self-respecting fan of the film needs to read the original story by Philip Dick.

I have the paperback version of this somewhere and I still have not finished it. I'm bad like that. I have a hard time finishing books. I don't usually have a lot of time to read and I tend to stop after each chapter to let it sink in.
I've only finished about three novels in the last few years. About one a year. Ha!

When this comic was announced I was jumping for joy. I really wanted to read the story and this would be the perfect opportunity.

Dick's text is kept in its entirety, including the "he said" and "she saids", and once you get used to it the comic reads pretty well. Unfortunately, because of that fact, it does seem to feel heavy. Kind of like Chris Claremont when he came back to the X-Men.

In the physical comic this over-abundance of text appeared cumbersome but in the Comixology app the formatting for the "guided view" makes it easier to take in without feeling overwhelmed.

How fitting that one of the foundation books for the cyberpunk genre would read better on a smartphone. Now if only they will do NEUROMANCER...

I give it 5 out of 5 stars.

BATMAN: THE DARK KNIGHT RETURNS #1 ($2.99)
(Frank Miller/Klaus Janson; DC Comics)

This masterpiece of comics storytelling brings to life a dark world...and an even darker man. Frank Miller completely reinvents the legend of Batman in his saga of a near-future Gotham City gone to rot, ten years after the Dark Knight's retirement.

Would you believe I had never read this? Well... I did read #2 back when it first came out because I happened to come across it at a local bookstore. But I never saw the next issue and I just went on to other things and never looked back.

Of course, a comic this big still made its presence known to me. I knew the story from reading reviews and other sources. I think that was one of the reasons I never bothered to read it.

Now with the introduction of Comixology I've decided to go ahead and read it.

The story, itself, is now considered a classic and helped revolutionize comics in the '80s (along with Alan Moore's WATCHMEN). Back then comics readers were clamoring for more mature themes and something to justify their love of the medium. Something to make them go "Yeah! This is something I won't be made fun of for reading!"

Alas, now it's had the opposite effect as more modern readers are yearning for the simpler stories filled with heroes and hope. But back then we wanted vengeance and rebellion. And sex and destruction.
Any other writer could have written a story like that. With just those elements.

Frank Miller took them and made a compelling story that became more than the sum of its parts. Here he gives us a Batman coming out of a ten year retirement to wage a one man war on the evil that's tearing his city to shreds.

I enjoyed reading the first issue and I'm looking forward to reading #2.

I give DARK KNIGHT RETURNS 5 out of 5 stars.

100 BULLETS #1 ($.99)
(Brian Azzarello/Eduardo Risso; Vertigo Comics)

In the first storyline of this groundbreaking series, the mysterious Agent Graves offers Dizzy Cordova, a Latina gangbanger fresh out of prison, vengeance for her family's murders and full immunity for all of her actions. But first, Dizzy will have to get used to life back on the harsh streets...

100 BULLETS is another title that I would consider a classic. The chemistry between Brian Azzarello and Eduardo Risso is hard to match elsewhere. They created one of the best crime comics to be seen in ages.

I remember when I first was introduced to the title. I was watching The Sopranos on HBO regularly and I was reading GOTHAM CENTRAL and Brubaker's DAREDEVIL. A great time for any fan of the crime genre.

I have the first six volumes of the 100 BULLETS trade paperbacks and one would wonder why I would bother re-purchasing them to read on my phone. The answer is that I'm actually enjoying the experience. This is another title that converts well to the Comixology app.

Plus, I may actually get to finish it this time.

This issue introduces Dizzy and Graves and sets up the basic premise that started the hit series. Later on it gets a little more complicated as conspiracy theories rise up and we meet the rest of the cast. Definitely a book to read if you haven't already.

I give 100 BULLETS 5 out of 5 stars.

KEVIN SMITH'S GREEN HORNET #1 ($1.99)
(Kevin Smith/Jonathan Lau/Ivan Nunes; Dynamite Entertainment)

The Green Hornet is back and Dynamite is the new home for the avenging hero and his faithful sidekick, Kato (and, the Black Beauty, 'natch!)! We're kicking things off with a BANG as we launch the first of a new series of adventures starting with the great Kevin Smith. And let's get it out of the way, right here, right NOW - the scripts are in! Every single one! Joining Smith in bringing his unproduced screenplay to life is artist Jonathan (Black Terror) Lau as they present the one and only origin of the Green Hornet and Kato. This is the comic book version of Kevin smith's unproduced Green Hornet film and Dynamite is the only place to get in on the action - it all begins here!

I had been curious about this series for sometime. I'm a big fan of pulp heroes and characters that obviously spawned from that genre. So Green Hornet would be right up my alley.
However, I was speculative when I discovered Kevin Smith was headlining it. Especially after his recent comic book works where he would start and then disappear.

It does seem that this title is sticking around, though, now written by Phil Hester (who did layouts for this issue).

I figured I could go ahead and check it out since it was being advertised on the app's home page. Not bad at all.

I was very impressed with the art. Especially in the opening scenes with the Hornet and Kato's fight with the mob bosses.
The story then shifts forward and we meet the Hornet's son, who is set to become his successor in crime fighting.

I think Smith did a great job of launching the book, mixing just the right amount of action and drama. I may just have to see where it goes.
I give it 4 out of 5 stars.

Comixology: First Impressions and Comic Reviews

2010-12-19T12:15:00.019-06:00

I've been trying out Comixology on my Droid. There's a few hundred free issues to sample out (mostly first issues).

For this first set of reviews I've stuck to free downloads.

WALKING DEAD #1 (Free)
(Robert Kirkman/Tony Moore; Skybound)

Rick Grimes, Sheriff of a small town in Kentucky awakes in a hospital. Comatose after being shot while on duty, Rick finds the world abandoned of all things living and is faced with walking undead, who attack him on sight. He returns home to find his family, son Carl and wife Lori, gone. He meets his new neighbor, who points him towards Atlanta. After retrieving supplies from the abandoned Police Station, Rick sets off to Atlanta to search for his family.

This is pretty much the flagship title right now for Comixology. With the series going "same day digital" and the AMC show garnering lots of praise, they couldn't ask for a better draw to the app.

The comic translates very well to the "guided view" technology. I was very impressed with how seamlessly it transitioned from panel to panel. One thing you discover is how most minor details that get overlooked become more prominent when you focus on each panel at a time. It's also a benefit to a book like DEAD because it helps build and maintain suspense.

There's not much that I can add about the comic itself that hasn't been said everywhere else. Robert Kirkman just happened to tap into a growing fad and make it so engrossing that all the other zombie comics become pale imitations.

The difference I think is that it's a drama about people first and a zombie comic second. The book focuses on the characters with the zombie apocalypse stuff adding interesting scenarios to bounce those people off of.

I highly recommend WALKING DEAD to anyone with an iPhone or Droid. With the tv series between seasons right now this would be the perfect time to read the comic and get ready for what's to come.
I've already purchased #2 and plan to follow it on Comixology.
5 out of 5 stars. Read it!

VINCENT PRICE PRESENTS #1 (Free)
(Darren Davis/Chad Helder/Rey Armenteros; Bluewater Comics)

Vincent Price, one of classic Hollywood's most famous scary men, made a name for himself in classic mysteries and thrillers throughout the 1940's, 50's and 60's. Now Vincent Price Presents comes to Bluewater Productions as their first on-going, monthly series, featuring adaptations of some of Price's films as well as developing frightening new stories with his estate. Welcome back to the macabre world of Vincent Price!

I had mixed feelings about this one.

The art, which appears to be mostly painted, has moments where it shines. Then there are the moments where it distracts.

The story itself seemed like it started with an interesting idea but the execution I think suffered from being forced to fit within one comic.

I think the art would have been better if the comic was shorter but the story would have improved if it was longer. Go figure.

I don't think I'll be getting the next issue anytime soon. I give it 2 out of 5 stars.

THE STUFF OF LEGEND: PART 1 (Free)
(Mike Raicht/Brian Smith/Charles Paul Wilson III; Th3rd World Studios)

The first half of The Stuff of Legend #1, a full 25 pages, FREE from Th3rd World Studios!
The year is 1944. While Allied soldiers storm a beach in far-off Normandy, in a child's bedroom in Brooklyn, a small group of toys loyal to their human master fight an unseen war to save him from every child's worst nightmare - The Boogeyman.

I must say that this comic was very impressive.

While not a lot happens in part one (really!), we get introduced to the main cast of characters in a way that is both charming and informative.

The art in LEGEND is fantastic. It's very detailed and shows up nicely in the app with an appearance that it's fully rendered in pencil.

I recommend STUFF OF LEGEND to anyone that likes Pixar films as this could easily be adapted into one.
I give it 4 out of 5 stars. Read it!

ABYSS #1 (Free)
(Kevin Rubio/Lucas Marangon/Nick Schley/Andrew Dalhouse; Red 5)

The world's greater super-villain, Abyss, has been killed, and that's the start of the story? Comedic, dysfunctional and heroic adventures begin when oblivious billionaire heir Eric Hoffman inherits his father's fortune, killer robot and infamous legacy. From the creator of the parody film web phenomenon, TROOPS.

Another comic that would translate well into an animated feature is ABYSS. It reads much like it was geared to be a series on Cartoon Network.

While the concept of child-of-villain becoming the opposite of what their parents were may not be a new one, Rubio does manage to milk it for all the comedy he can.

The art is very polished and professional looking and conveys the cartoony feel of the world quite well.

Great for fans of Marvel's RUNAWAYS or SENTINEL.
I give it 3 out of 5 stars.

ACTION PHILOSOPHERS: AYN RAND! (Free)
(Fred Van Lente/Ryan Dunlavey; Evil Twin Comics)

Writer Fred Van Lente and artist Ryan Dunlavey read and explain and make fun of philosophy so you don't have to! Their hilarious, best-selling Action Philosophers comic book series has won American Library Association and Xeric awards and is used in classrooms across the globe to introduce the world of history's greatest thinkers in a hip and humorous fashion! But don't take our word for it! Read this FREE SAMPLE and see for yourself, starring the controversial founder of Objectivism!

Hmmmmmm....

I liked the indie-esque art in this comic but...

Um. That's it.

Wouldn't mind seeing the artist do something else.

Docu-comics just don't do it for me.
2 out of 5 stars.

There's the first batch of reviews.
I'll be posting these as I read more comics on Comixology.
I've purchased my first "pay" comic (WALKING DEAD #2) today and I'm deciding on four others for this week. I'll let you guys know how it turns out.

Comixology Releases for the Week of Dec 15th

2010-12-17T22:33:00.004-06:00

Here's a list of the comics that were released through Comixology this week.

100 Bullets #10
100 Bullets #11
Amazing Spider-Man #584
Amazing Spider-Man #585
Amazing Spider-Man #586
Amazing Spider-Man #587
Amazing Spider-Man #588
Atlas #2
Batman: The Long Halloween #9
Batman: Widening Gyre #3 (of 6)
Birds of Prey #86
Birds of Prey #87
Black Harvest #5 (of 6)
Black Harvest #6 (of 6)
Black Widow #2
Bomb Queen V #4 (of 6)
Bomb Queen V #5 (of 6)
Boneyard Preview Vol. 1
Boneyard Vol. 1
Box 13 Vol. 2 #8: The Pandora Process
Buck Rogers #3
Buck Rogers #4
Buck Rogers #5
Cable #1
Cable #2
Cable #3
Cable #4
Cable #5
Captain America #444
Captain America #445
Captain America #446
Captain America #447
Captain America #448
Captain America #450
Captain America #451
Captain America #452
Captain America #453
Captain America #454
Captain America: Theater of War: Ghosts of My Country
Captain America: Theater of War: To Soldier On
Captain America: Theater of War: Brother In Arms
Captain America: Theater of War: America the Beautiful
Chew #12
Chew #13
Chuck #6 (of 6)
Confessions of a Peculiar Boy
Deadpool #1
Deadpool #2
Deadpool #3
Deadpool #4
Elephantmen #16
Elephantmen #17
Ex Machina #22
Fables #37
Fall of Cthulhu: Godwar #1 (of 4): Preview
Fall of Cthulhu: Godwar #1 (of 4)
Fall of Cthulhu: Godwar #2 (of 4)
Fall of Cthulhu: GodWar #3 (of 4)
Fall of Cthulhu: Godwar #4 (of 4)
Golden Age Sheena: Best of Queen of the Jungle #1
Golden Age Sheena: Best of Queen of the Jungle #2
Green Arrow #22
Green Lantern #28
Green Lantern Corps #22
Hack/Slash: Trailers
Hawkeye & Mockingbird #2
Hellblazer #26
Hellblazer #27
JLA #31
JLA #32
Justice League of America #6
Justice Society of America #23
Justice Society of America #24
Kade: Red Sun: Preview
Kade: Red Sun
Kevin Smith's Green Hornet #5
Kevin Smith's Green Hornet #6
Last Reign: Kings of War #4 (of 5)
Last Reign: Kings of War #5 (of 5)
Loaded Bible 2: Blood of Christ #1
Loaded Bible 2: Blood of Christ #2
Loaded Bible: Jesus vs Vampires #1: Part 2
Lobo: Paramilitary Christmas Special #1
Mysterius: The Unfathomable #4 (of 6)
N-Guard #3 (of 4)
N-Guard #4 (of 4)
Orc Stain #4
Orc Stain #5
Pilot Season: Demonic #1
Pilot Season: Stealth #1
Pirate Tales #1: Preview
Pirate Tales #1
Pirate Tales #2
Powers Vol. 2 #1
Powers Vol. 2 #2
Powers Vol. 2 #3
Preacher #1
Preacher #2
Preacher #3
Sandman #26
Sleeper: Season Two #2 (of 12)
Starman #21
Starman #22
Strange Girl #5
Strange Girl #6
Strange Girl #7
Superman #210
Superman: Secret Origin #1 (of 6)
Superman: Secret Origin #2 (of 6)
Superman/Batman #41
Swamp Thing #26
The Authority Vol. 1 #10
The Authority vs. Lobo: Jingle Hell
The Big Bad Book
The Bulletproof Coffin #4 (of 6)
The Invisibles #12
The Invisibles #13
The Origin of Lobo #1
The Sisters' Luck
Transmetropolitan #15
Transmetropolitan #16
Ultimate Comics: Thor #2 (of 4)
Ultimate Spider-Man #33
Ultimate Spider-Man #34
Ultimate Spider-Man #35
Ultimate Spider-Man #36
Ultimate Spider-Man #37
Ultimate Spider-Man #38
Ultimate Spider-Man #39
Valentine Vol. 1: Fully Loaded Preview
Valentine Vol. 1: Fully Loaded
Valentine Vol. 2: Red Rain
Valentine Vol. 3: The Killing Moon
Velocity: Pilot Season #1
Warstone #1
Welcome To Tranquility #12
What Were They Thinking? One-Shot
Whatever Happened To Baron Von Shock? #1
Whatever Happened To Baron Von Shock? #2
Whatever Happened To Baron Von Shock? #3
Witchblade #104
Witchblade #105
Witchblade #106
Wonder Woman #27
Wonder Woman #28
World of Warcraft #5
Y: The Last Man #20
Young Allies #3

Comixology Comes to the Droid

2010-12-17T08:05:00.004-06:00

Official release:

"New York, NY / December 15th, 2010 – Due to overwhelming demand, the holidays have come early for millions of comic book fans everywhere with the release of the Comics by comiXology Android™ app (beta) powered by comiXology, the leading digital comics platform provider for all iOS devices, the Web and now Android.

Expanding beyond its industry-leading digital comic book apps on iOS and the Web, comiXology brings the largest digital comics library to the Android marketplace, enabling fans to read comics on Android devices running 2.1 (Eclair) or higher. The Comics by comiXology Android beta app gives users the ability to discover, purchase, and read more than 2,500 digital comics and over 300 free comics from 40 publishers. Launch partners include DC Comics, Image Comics, Dynamite Entertainment, and Archie, alongside many more. Users can search and browse through comics based on titles, creators, publishers, genre and ratings, and find local comic book retailers with the built-in retailer finder..."

Go here to read more details about the new Droid app.

Comics publishers participating with Comixology on the Droid include:

* A Wave Blue World
* Adhouse Books
* Alterna Comics
* Antarctic Press
* Arcana Studio
* Archie Comics
* Asylum Press
* Bluewater Comics
* BOOM! Studios
* Com.x
* Creative Impulse
* Creator Owned
* DC Comics
* Devils Due
* Digital Webbing
* Dynamite Entertainment
* EigoMANGA
* Evil Twin Comics
* First Salvo
* Image Comics
* Keenspot
* Markosia
* Moonstone Books
* Oni Press
* Radical
* Red 5 Comics
* Shadowline
* Skybound
* South Fellini
* Slave Labor Graphics
* Studio 407
* Th3rd World Studios
* TOKYOPOP
* Top Cow
* Vertigo
* Viper Comics
* Zenescope Entertainment

Notice that Marvel is missing...

I just recently got a Droid and I immediately downloaded this app last night when I first discovered it's release. I had to try it out for myself.

Reading the first issue of WALKING DEAD (which is one of the free comics), I was very pleased with the program. The experience was far more pleasing than I expected. It basically goes panel-by-panel with a smooth transition that is easy to navigate.

I'm currently checking out all the free comics but seeing that today is payday I may pick up a few regular ones, too. It's actually that good.

Overall, Comoxology for the Droid was a lot better than I expected. The only drawback right now is the absence of Marvel. I understand that they DO carry Marvel on their other mobile apps so I'm wondering if they're just bringing them in later.

I'll be covering the comics on Comixology here as I'm sure I'll be continueing using it.

Another app worth mentioning for Droid users is Daily Strip. I absolutely love this one.
It gives you access to almost every comic strip currently running in the newspapers and has an extensive backlog. It has a great navagation system, as well, and all the strips are shown in color (even the dailies) if they are available.

Crossgen Returns in March

2010-12-16T20:03:00.006-06:00

Coming from Marvel:

RUSE #1
Written by Mark Waid, with art by Mirco Pierfederici and covers by Butch Guice, Mike Perkins and Mitch Breitweiser.
Simon Archard is the world's greatest detective, but when he crosses paths with the enigmatic Emma Bishop, the smartest man may have met his equal...and find himself embroiled in the greatest mystery of his career!

SIGIL #1
Written by Mike Carey, with art by Leonard Kirk and covers by Jelena Kevin-Djurdjevic and Ed McGuinness.
In the war for forever, time is only a small obstacle as the greatest warriors jump from century to century to ensure victory! Enter Samantha Rey, a 16 year old girl from present-day South Carolina who discovers a mysterious symbol on her chest granting her the power to turn the tide of this war. But will she save us or damn all of creation?

It's about time!
I hope Sojourn makes a return, too.

Scenes from an Impending Marriage Preview

2010-12-16T08:08:00.004-06:00

Preview six pages of Adrian Tomine's Scenes from an Impending Marriage here.
The book, published by Drawn & Quarterly, is scheduled to be released in February.

'Nuther World Comics Update

2010-12-15T08:41:00.002-06:00

'NUTHER WORLD COMICS MEGAMIX #1 is now available for free download at Clickwheel.
Enjoy!

Out Soon: 2000 AD Prog 2011

2010-12-15T08:23:00.002-06:00

Prog 2011 is a great jump-on point for anyone interested in checking out not only the world's best sci-fi comic but also the world's best comic anthology series.

This issue features stories by Dan Abnett, Pat Mills, Alan Grant and many others.

Go here to check out the details.

It should be up on Clickwheel in a couple weeks.

Vesha Valentine Preview

2010-12-14T08:32:00.003-06:00

Vesha Valentine, by Des Taylor, is an art book turned graphic novel being published by Slave Labor Graphics.
You can view a 22-page preview of it here.
The link to pre-order from Amazon appears to be broke so here's the correct link.

Great for fans of Darwyn Cooke, Dan DeCarlo and classic Hollywood.

February 2010 Highlights

2010-12-13T22:05:00.017-06:00

These are the books that caught my attention for February.
(As a side note: they finally hired me a co-worker at my job and once the holiday season is over I should be back to a regular posting schedule.)

ADVENTURE COMICS #523
Written by PAUL LEVITZ Art by PHIL JIMENEZ & ANDY LANNING Cover by PHIL JIMENEZ.
Phil Jimenez (INFINITE CRISIS, Amazing Spider-Man) launches an arc starring the rookies as they learn to be heroes at Legion Academy! This gorgeous issue marks a perfect jumping-on point for any new reader curious to learn about the DC Universe of the 31st century! On sale FEBRUARY 2 • 32 pg, FC

BATWOMAN #1
Written by J.H. WILLIAMS III & W. HADEN BLACKMAN Art and cover by J.H. WILLIAMS III 1:10 Variant cover by AMY REEDER.
The multiple award-winning creative team of J.H. Williams III (DETECTIVE COMICS) and W. Haden Blackman (Star Wars, Force Unleashed) launch the first, chilling arc of the ongoing series fans have been clamoring for! In the 5-part 'Hydrology,' Batwoman faces bizarre new challenges in her war against the dark underworld of Gotham and new trials in her personal life as Kate Kane. She quickly finds herself in the deep end facing truths about her past and her future. Who - or what - is stealing children from Gotham's barrio, and for what twisted purpose? Can she train her cousin Bette Kane (a.k.a. Flamebird) as her new sidekick? How will she handle dark revelations about her father, Colonel Jacob Kane? How is she dealing with the supposed drowning of her sister, the villain known as Alice? And why is a certain government agency suddenly taking an interest in her? The road to the answers begins here! Retailers please note: This issue will ship with two covers. Please see the Previews Order Form for more information. On sale FEBRUARY 23 • 32 pg, FC

BIRDS OF PREY #9
Written by GAIL SIMONE Art by ARDIAN SYAF & VICENTE CIFUENTES Cover by STANLEY 'ARTGERM' LAU.
The game-changing 'Death of Oracle' storyline continues! Black Canary finally confronts her inner demons as the Calculator's army and creepy new villainess Mortis take their ultimate revenge on Oracle. This massive story reverberates throughout Gotham City - and beyond! On sale FEBRUARY 9 • 32 pg, FC

BLACK PANTHER MAN WITHOUT FEAR #515
Written by DAVID LISS Penciled by FRANCESCO FRANCAVILLA Cover by SIMONE BIANCHI.
For the fate of Hell's Kitchen: T'Challa vs. Vlad the Impaler in a desperate rooftop battle of wills, wits and fists! 'Urban Jungle' heats up as Luke Cage guest-stars, friends fall, dark forces prepare to step from the shadows, and a dangerous conspiracy begins to unfold! 32 PGS./Rated T+

DC UNIVERSE ONLINE LEGENDS #1
Written by TONY BEDARD & MARV WOLFMAN Art by HOWARD PORTER & LIVESAY and ADRIANA MELO & NORMAN LEE Wraparound cover by ED BENES.
Issue #1 1:10 Variant cover by RYAN SOOK The DC event of the year begins, coinciding with the release of the wildly anticipated DCU MMO! Get ready for the ride of a lifetime with this immense, 26-issue biweekly series! Lex Luthor's obsession with destroying Superman reaches a fevered limit when he cuts the ultimate Devil's deal with Brainiac...but with the shake of a hand, has Luthor consigned humanity to genocide? Comic book legend Marv Wolfman joins fan-favorite writer Tony Bedard and artist Howard Porter to tell the ultimate DC Universe Super Hero tale of good versus evil! Retailers please note: Issue #1 will ship with two covers. Please see the Previews Order Form for more information. On sale FEBRUARY 2

DC UNIVERSE ONLINE LEGENDS #2
Written by TONY BEDARD & MARV WOLFMAN Art by HOWARD PORTER & LIVESAY and ADRIANA MELO & NORMAN LEE Cover by ED BENES.
The DC event of the year begins, coinciding with the release of the wildly anticipated DCU MMO! Get ready for the ride of a lifetime with this immense, 26-issue biweekly series! The Lex Luthor of a post-apocalyptic future scrambles to escape Brainiac's invasion of Earth, but he must gather an army to stop the invasion. Who will he recruit? And in the present, Brainiac's first assault on Earth has begun, which recaps the incredibly rare DC UNIVERSE ONLINE LEGENDS #0! Comic book legend Marv Wolfman joins fan-favorite writer Tony Bedard and artist Howard Porter to tell the ultimate DC Universe Super Hero tale of good versus evil! On sale FEBRUARY 16

DEUS EX #1 (OF 6)
Written by ROBBIE MORRISON Art by TREVOR HAIRSINE Cover by JIM MURRAY.
The legendary video game franchise, which PC Gamer called 'The Best PC Game of All Time,' comes to comics in advance of the highly anticipated new installment in the series! Adam Jensen is a cybernetically enhanced security operative for the powerful Sarif Industries in a future where biological enhancements have become commonplace, yet fanatically opposed by many. While recovering the kidnapped niece of the founder of Sarif Industries, Jensen unstitches a mystery that goes all the way back to his fully human SWAT origins in Detroit - and an adventure of violence and betrayal that will span the globe! On sale FEBRUARY 9 • 1 of 6 • 32 pg, FC

DOCTOR STRANGE FROM MARVEL VAULT #1
Written by ROGER STERN Penciled by NEIL VOKES Cover by MARIO ALBERTI.
A Marvel Masterpiece from deep inside the treasure vaults can now be told! For decades, Doctor Stephen Strange has worked as a practicing sorcerer out of the weird old brownstone at 177A Bleecker Street in Manhattan's Greenwich Village. But what eerie secrets does the building hide? What lurks within its walls? Is it … haunted? Now, at last, the full story of Doctor Strange's first night in his Sanctum Sanctorum stands revealed -- in a tale tastefully told by Roger Stern (AMAZING SPIDER-MAN) and dramatically drawn by those Masters of the Comic Arts, Neil Vokes and Jay Geldhof (UNTOLD TALES OF SPIDER-MAN: STRANGE ENCOUNTERS, The Black Forest). 32 PGS./Rated A

LEGION OF SUPER HEROES #10
Written by PAUL LEVITZ Art and cover by YILDIRAY CINAR & WAYNE FAUCHER The Durlan plot against the United Planets comes to a very deadly conclusion, as Chameleon Boy must dive into battle with one of his own kind! And what this final assassin reveals will stun the shape-shifting Legionnaire! On sale FEBRUARY 16 • 32 pg, FC

SILVER SURFER #1 (OF 5)
Written by Greg Pak Pencils by Stephen Segovia Cover by Carlo Pagulayan.
A new beginning for the SILVER SURFER! The sentinel of the spaceways walks the Earth once more, a stranger feared by many. Only the HIGH EVOLUTIONARY understands his true potential, but the Evolutionary's mysterious grand design may cost the Surfer everything and change the cosmic balance forever! He's traded blows with Thor and matched wits with Mephisto, but can the herald of Galactus survive the judgment of NORRIN RAND, the man within the Silver Surfer? It's a character-defining epic showing the Silver Surfer as you've never seen him before, brought to you by 'Planet Hulk' writer Greg Pak and 'Dark Wolverine' artist Stephen Segovia. 32 PGS./Rated T+

YOUNG JUSTICE #1
Written by ART BALTAZAR and FRANCO Art and Cover by MIKE NORTON.
Based on the highly anticipated, all-new hit animated show from Warner Bros. debuting in January on Cartoon Network! It's moving-in day for Superboy and Miss Martian as they choose their rooms at their new headquarters! But the Boy of Steel is haunted by the Cave's memories and strange visions of his past… On sale FEBRUARY 16 • 32 pg, FC

Fantagraphics Cyber Monday Sale

2010-11-29T07:56:00.002-06:00

Today only: 30% off all 2010 releases!
Go check it out!

Young Justice Preview

2010-11-17T22:56:00.001-06:00

Preview of the new Young Justice series beginning next week on Cartoon Network. Looks really good!

Movie Trailers - Movies Blog

LEGION OF SUPER-HEROES #6- Signs of a Better Future?

2010-11-07T14:45:00.003-06:00

The latest issue of LEGION OF SUPER-HEROES set my fanboy meter to override. I had never really considered myself as a fanboy before but I think I may just be.

First, we have the Legion by Paul Levitz. Levitz is the man who molded the Legion into the powerhouse they became in the '80s. No one knows these characters, their history and their worlds as much as he does.

Second, #6 features the art of Phil Jimenez, who shows us that Sensor Girl can look good without that silly mask. No one knows why she still wears that thing...

Third, #6 also shows spotlights the Legion Academy, introducing several characters (illustrated by Jimenez).

And last (but definitely not least)- DC Comics is doing an election to vote the next leader for the Legion. The leader election was one of the key traditions of the original Paul Levitz run and its return is a pleasant surprise to fans.

The nominees are:

Brainiac 5
Chameleon Boy
Chameleon Girl
Colossal Boy
Cosmic Boy
Dawnstar
Dreamgirl
Earth-Man
Element Lad
Gates
Invisible Kid
Lightning Lass
Mon-El
Phantom Girl
Polar Boy
Quislet
Sensor Girl
Shadow Lass
Shrinking Violet
Sun Boy
Tellus
Timber Wolf
Tyroc
Ultra Boy
Wildfire

Go here to cast your vote!

Review: The Royal Historian of Oz #1 and 2

2010-11-01T07:37:00.008-05:00

When it comes to Oz, Jasper Frizzle takes things into his own hands, literally...

THE ROYAL HISTORIAN OF OZ #1 and 2
Writer: Tommy Kovac
Artist: Andy Hirsch
Publisher: SLG Publishing

Have you ever believed in something so much that you were sure it was real? Did you ever think that perhaps there was a magical world out there somewhere that you would retreat to if you could?

Did you ever for a minute get so caught up in the moment- perhaps staring at the night sky or watching a gentle rain in a secluded forest- that you simply forgot the real world existed?

What if you could share this with others?

MEET THE FRIZZLES

Oz fiction writer Jasper Frizzle and his son Frank barely get by and while most think he should write about more exciting stuff (at least to make money) poor Jasper is convinced that he is the only one who can write about Oz.

Several folks would disagree, including not only an uppity group of literary snobs but also his own son.

Frank is simply a victim in the scenario as he feels tied by his love for his dad and helplessly watches him succumb to what appears to be a mild form of insanity.

Or is it..?

A FRIZZLE... A FRAZZLE

Blinded by his ambitions, Jasper eagerly jumps at a chance to experience Oz first hand when he discovers a magical portal to the other world.

However, not being satisfied with just going there, he decides to bring as much stuff back as possible to further his studies. This consists of several items (and creatures) that didn't really want to be taken.

His actions have consequences, of course, and a squad is put together to retrieve the items. I really liked the interpretation of these characters as I think they stuck fairly close to what I remember from the books.

We're introduced a newer character along with the usual suspects that makes an interesting move at the end of the second issue that is sure to put a kink in everybody's plans.

THE MAGICAL WORLD OF STORYTELLING

Something that really helped me like this book was that perhaps it is magical? I had just finished reading it over the last weekend and the following day I turned the tv on to find a marathon of wondrous movies. Mr. Magorium's Wonder Emporium, Willy Wonka, Charlie and the Chocolate Factory, Spiderwick Chronicles... among others. It made the whole weekend seem greatly removed from the real world. A place to retreat to, away from the real world.

Tommy Kovac shows great skill at writing a fantastical story and embellishing it with interesting characters that beg for your attention. He also works as a librarian and his love for storytelling can easily be seen.

Andy Hirsch's art is incredible. So much detail and still nothing is lost on the characters and their emotions. He manages to convey so much to the reader that every panel adds to the story.

As for the faults of the book..?

Well, I did think that Frank made friends with Zik a little too fast but that was before I discovered it was a five issue mini-series.

And it would be nice to see a bit more things to remind us it's set in the future because I keep forgetting. When the squad from Oz said that they wouldn't be noticed I had already forgot that important detail.

All minor things, of course. I guess my biggest complaint right now would be that it's gonna end.

4 out of 5 Stars

To order copies, go to SLG Publishing's website.

How to Draw a Comic Strip

2010-10-25T08:09:00.004-05:00

Want to see how Jonathan Lemon does Rabbits Against Magic but couldn't make it to APE?

He has a pretty thorough explanation here of his technique.

The workshop he did at APE covered more about the planning and layout of the strips but he managed to cover the entire process. And here it all is in detail.

Two tools he uses that I now want to implement are the lettering guide (I so need one!) and the panel templates (great idea!).

The pictures are very nice to see, too, as it helps to see what he is talking about.

Post-Ape 2010

2010-10-23T16:56:00.025-05:00

Well, I'm finally getting a chance to relax after my trip to San Francisco.

I had a blast. Between Ape and the nightlife and all the things to see... It was great!

I met a lot of folks and picked up quite a few new reads, too.

When I arrived in San Francisco on Friday, I met up with John, my partner-in-crime, and we got settled into our hotel. Then we hit Castro and a quick web-search on my phone turned up two comic shops on the street.

The first was Whatever... Comics. I really liked this one. It may not have been very big but it still managed to give space to local indie creators, including their own Slumberland Press comics.
Picked up: Nothing today. John went back later and got something for me that I was fawning over with glowing eyes.
However, Chris (the main guy there from what I could tell) gave me a copy of one of their comics free and suggested that I leave copies of mine with them. Really great place, btw.

The second shop was down the road a bit. Or rather... Up. Waaay up! After a few blocks it became a steep incline and I started questioning if I really wanted to see it or not. And if so, how bad..?

We finally arrived at Neon Monster and the lack of customers came as no real surprise as they probably passed out halfway up the hill. The host, however, was quite cheerful and pleasant to talk to.
Picked up: Darwyn Cooke's Parker: The Man with the Getaway Face. I had just finished reading The Hunter on the flight to SF (I stopped at Hastings and picked up the used copy for $12.95 that I stupidly passed over previously) and I'm looking forward to reading the prelude to The Outfit.

Saturday was spent mostly at the con. I had originally planned to hit several workshops or panels throughout the day but it took me all day just to explore the hundreds of booths that were set up.

I made sure to stop by the booths for Fantagraphics, Drawn & Quarterly, Slave Labor Graphics, Top Shelf Productions and Last Gasp.

From Fantagraphics I got the first volume of the new dress trades for Love & Rockets. I finally gave in and I'll be replacing my old big trades with the new smaller ones. I didn't have a complete set yet anyways... Only the first six or so.

I like the new smaller design, too. Easier to port around and cheaper. I had been a little speculative about switching but with the recent release of the new Penny Century volume it appears that Fantagraphics will be reprinting more material in the format.

I also picked up Twentieth Century Eightball and Ghost World to get signed by Dan Clowes.

Over at the Drawn & Quarterly booth I got Wilson (another book to be signed by Clowes) and a tote bag as my plastic bag that I brought with me was starting to show signs of an early demise.

Speaking of Dan Clowes, I think he was amused by me bringing my promo poster for Wison to be signed. I've had it prominently displayed on my bathroom wall for the last few months. He signed it but it's the side that I don't show as I like to have the story side out so it can be read.

Top Shelf Productions had copies of Matt Kindt's Super Spy and I snagged one of them. I had dug it back when I had a psp and they were releasing Super Spy mini-comics for the psp a few years ago. I thought he had a great style for the story and I can't wait to read it all in one volume.

Then over at Slave Labor Graphics, I met up with Tommy Kovac and had a great conversation about Oz, libraries and working to death. I picked up the first two issues of The Royal Historian of Oz (which he signed, of course) and gave him copies of 'Nuther World Comics.

Another stand out appearance was Justin Hall. I had originally seen his work in the first volume of Best American Comics. I bought a copy of True Travel Tales from him, which he signed, and when I gave him copies of my comics he gave me another comic in return (the only person at the con to do that if I remember correctly).

I stopped by Slumberland's booth several times Saturday and Sunday but kept missing Chris. I left copies of my comic and looked over some of their books. I think I'll be getting me a copy of Robinson Crusoe in the 6th Dimension pretty soon...

I found a vendor there selling half-price and 30%-off trades and another one selling single comics. From these two I snagged Jay Stephen's Atomic City Tales #3 (I've had the first two issues for years but never finished the set til now) and Madman Comics Volume 3 (which includes #s 12 through 20 of the Dark Horse run and my collection had stopped with #14).

On Sunday I took part in two workshops. One with Jonathan Lemon (Rabbits Against Magic) lecturing on developing comic strips and another with Shannon Wheeler (Too Much Coffee Man) sharing his knowledge of gag cartoons.

One thing I found interesting was that Lemon supported the use of the "silent panel" in comic strips- the panel sometimes used just before the last panel to prolong the anticipation of the punchline, while Shannon (without being asked) brought up that comic strips are made funnier without the "silent panel", rushing forward to the joke.

I found it intriguing that they both brought up the "silent panel" and that they had such opposing thoughts about it. I actually found it distracting as I spent more time after that just pondering over their separate views.

Nevertheless, I enjoyed both workshops but it seemed like they were both cut short as one hour really wasn't long enough.

I also sat in on a panel and listened to Lynda Barry, Megan Kelso, Renee French, Tom Neely and Jen Wong answer questions from Greg Means regarding "The Art of Storytelling".

After the con was over I went back to the hotel to meet back up with John (who had skipped day 2) and was greeted with a copy of The Art of Jaime Hernandez (the book from Friday that I ogled).

The next day we spent sight-seeing, visiting the Golden Gate Bridge, the Botanical Garden. Twin Peaks, Sausalito and the beach.

All in all it was a great trip and I think this weekend I'm just gonna rest.

'Nuther World Comics Megamix #1

2010-10-12T23:49:00.003-05:00

'NUTHER WORLD COMICS MEGAMIX #1 will be available at APE.

Contents:
"Escape"
"Welcome to Driftwood"
and Mis-Adventure!

16 pages, b&w with color front and back covers.

Countdown to APE: Exhibitors and Schedules

2010-10-12T19:24:00.004-05:00

Here's Fantagraphics' schedule for APE 2010 (booths 113-116):

Saturday
12:00 - 1:00PM Spotlight on Megan Kelso, moderated by Marc Weidenbaum
1:00 - 3:00PM Megan Kelso booth signing
3:00 - 5:00PM Tony Millionaire booth signing
5:00 - 6:00PM Spotlight on Tony Millionaire, moderated by Renée French

Sunday
1:00 - 3:00PM Tony Millionaire booth signing
2:00 - 3:00PM Art of Storytelling panel with Megan Kelso
3:00 - 5:00PM Megan Kelso booth signing

And here's Drawn & Quarterly's schedule (booth 222):

Saturday
1:00-3:00 Vanessa Davis Signing
2:00-3:00 Spotlight on Dan Clowes, questions by Picture Box and Comics Comics' Dan Nadel
3:00-5:00 Dan Clowes Signing
4:00-5:00 Spotlight on Lynda Barry, with Picture This slide show!
5:00-7:00 Lynda Barry Signing

Sunday
1:00-3:00 Vanessa Davis Signing
2:00-3:00 Art of Storytelling panel with Lynda Barry & others
3:00-5:00 Lynda Barry signing

Here's the list of all of 2010's exhibitors and the map of the exhibit hall.

Preview: Little Maakies on the Prairie

2010-10-12T08:10:00.003-05:00

Fantagraphics has a new Maakies collection coming out that reprints 2007 through 2009 of Tony Millionaire's strip.
Check out a 12-page preview of Little Maakies on the Prairie.

New 2000 AD Online Releases

2010-10-12T08:04:00.003-05:00

Recent 2000 AD ebooks released through Clickwheel.

2000 AD

PROG #1704
SPIRITED AWAY! -- Flight of the living dead in Defoe -- Featuring Judge Dredd, Defoe, Age of the Wolf, Low Life and Nikolai Dante -- Only $2.99 US (retails for $3.75 US)

(2000 AD and JUDGE DREDD MEGAZINE are published by 2000 AD/Rebellion.)

Bluetooth Redesigned

2010-10-11T23:52:00.001-05:00

Escape

2010-10-11T22:26:00.002-05:00

Driftwood in Color

2010-10-10T14:34:00.002-05:00

I was playing with photoshop today and came up with this.

Countdown to APE: Another Daniel Clowes Interview

2010-10-10T00:07:00.003-05:00

I figured since the other one was an audio interview, I'd post another one for Daniel Clowes. This one is from The Observer.

Dan is one of the special guests at this year's APE.

The Revenge of Print

2010-10-08T20:04:00.002-05:00

If you do mini-comics or zines you really should check out the "Revenge of Print" challenge.
What is it?
Go to Quimby's blog to find out.

Ardden Entertainment Revives Atlas Comics

2010-10-08T00:50:00.005-05:00

Ardden Entertainment has begun work on bringing back the historic Atlas Comics.

For those that don't know, Atlas Comics was the brainchild of Marvel Comics founder Martin Goodman, who created the line to one-up his old company. Unfortunately, the line flopped mere months after it began, with several titles changing direction after the first or second issues.

One of the highlights of that era would be Howard Chaykin's work on The Scorpion. A pulp adventure hero, The Scorpion who would serve as a prototype for the standard arrogant, hard-edged character type that Chaykin would later develop with Dominic Fortune.

You can read more about Ardden Entertainment's plans here.

DC Comics Drops Prices!

2010-10-08T00:40:00.003-05:00

In an unprecedented move that startled (and pleased) most readers, DC Comics has decided to drop the prices of their ongoing $3.99 titles to $2.99.

They'll be doing away with the co-features (which they hint will surface again somehow).

From the press release:

"As of January, the following standard length ongoing titles, previously priced at $3.99 for 32 pages/22 story pages, will be priced at $2.99 with 32 pages/20 story pages:

American Vampire;
Batman: The Dark Knight;
Batman Incorporated;
Green Lantern: Emerald Warriors;
JSA All-Stars.

As of January, the following licensed titles, previously priced at $3.99, will be priced at $2.99:

Gears of War;
God of War;
Kane & Lynch;
Ratchet & Clank.

As of January, the following ongoing titles previously priced at $3.99 for 40 pages/30 story pages including co-features, will no longer include co-features and will be priced at $2.99 for 32 pages/ 20 story pages:

Action Comics;
Adventure Comics;
Batman: Streets of Gotham;
Detective Comics;
Doc Savage;
Justice League of America;
Legion of Super-Heroes;
The Spirit.

In January, five books are $3.99 for 40 pages/30 story pages:

Batman: Europa # 1
First Wave # 6
DCU: Legacies # 9
Weird Worlds # 1
World of Warcraft: Curse of the Worgen

The following oversized anniversary issue will be $4.99 for 48 pages/38 story pages:

Hellblazer # 275"

Hmmm... I'm kinda interested in what that "Weird Worlds" is...

Basically, we're losing two pages of story but saving a buck. It may be a worthy compromise.

Read all the rest of the details here.

Indie Comics for December 2010

2010-10-08T00:19:00.006-05:00

Here are the books shipping in December from :01 First Second, Drawn and Quarterly, Fantagraphics, Last Gasp, Picturebox, Slave Labor Graphics and Top Shelf Productions.

For books shipping in November, go here.

:01 FIRST SECOND

ROBOT DREAMS GN
(W/A) Sara Varon.
Back in Print, an Oprah's Reading List For Kids Selection! When the dog gets lonely, he builds himself a friend from a mail-order robot kit. Soon the two are happily sharing movies, popcorn, and peaceful evenings - until a summer's day swim leaves the robot rusted and immobile. In Robot Dreams, the dog's desperate search for new friends and the robot's dreams of his lost friend the dog, becomes a moving story of friendship, loneliness, and forgiveness.

Also available:
ADVENTURES IN CARTOONING ACTIVITY BOOK
ADVENTURES IN CARTOONING SC
PRIME BABY TP
UNSINKABLE WALKER BEAN GN

DRAWN AND QUARTERLY

A SINGLE MATCH HC
(W/A) Oji Suzuki.
In this collection of hauntingly elliptical short stories, Oji Suzuki explores memory, relationships and loss with a loose narrative style, filling each tale with a sense of unfulfilled longing. He plumbs the dissolute depths of human psychology, literally bathing his characters in expansive shadows that paradoxically reveal as much as they obscure. Though he touches on many of the same themes as his contemporaries in the field of post-war alternative manga, Suzuki's ever-shifting narrative approach and dashes of surrealist humor distinguish his work from his peers. Mature readers.

BIG QUESTIONS #15
(W/A) Anders Nilsen.
The epic existentialist fable concludes. The pilot follows two swans underground, crows laugh and insult one another, and the dead walk. Anders Nilsen has spent much of the past decade working on this 600-page Ignatz-nominated series. Mature readers.

BIGFOOT HC
(W/A) Pascal Girard.
Jimmy is a teenager in a crummy little town. He's got a lousy best friend, a porn habit, and an uncle whose miserable existence is the embodiment of life stalled in its tracks. He's also got a tender soul, a pure-hearted crush, and the makings of a budding artist. A horrible YouTube video of Jimmy dancing in his living room becomes viral and makes every sweet and hopeful thing about Jimmy seem utterly pathetic. Everyone from fellow classmates to the clerk at the corner store has seen the video, and Jimmy finds himself a celebrity in his town, just for the wrong reasons. Mature readers.

Also available:
BOX MAN HC
RED SNOW HC

FANTAGRAPHICS

BLECKY YUCKERELLA GN VOL 04 $$$$ YOU A-HOLE
THE FOURTH AND FINAL COLLECTION OF RYAN'S RIOTOUS COMIC STRIP
The stupidest, ugliest, stubbliest girl in grade number two is back and so are the zits, boogers, guts, tumors, and turds in this fourth and final collection of riotously hilarious, eye-poppingly offensive four-panel gag strips. Co-starring the usual cast of Blecky's weirdo friends and enemies, plus jelly clones, morbidly obese Jesus, the Blumpkins, slug nuts, aliens, talking belches, the beloved New Character Parade and oh so much more. Over 100 pages of ridiculous absurdity, over-the-top gross-outs, and scathing satire as only Johnny Ryan can deliver. 'Blecky Yuckerella is Ryan's broad-stroke conflation of Nancy and Little Orphan Annie transmogrified into a nightmare so creatively scatological you can't help but laugh.' - The Boston Globe 'This guy is literally the funniest cartoonist living in the world today. These sick vignettes about his anti-heroine Blecky Yuckerella deserve to go down in history alongside Peanuts and Garfield.' - Vice 'Ryan is the king of inappropriate gross-out comics, and doesn't let social taboos, politically correct boundaries, or even good taste stand in the way of his art.' - Wizard JOHNNY RYAN lives in Los Angeles, CA, with his wife Jenny.

DRAWING POWER SC
A UNIQUE MIX OF COMICS, POP CULTURE AND AMERICANA
The season's first book from Fantagraphics' new imprint Marschall Books is Drawing Power, a lively collection of mass market print advertising from the 1890s to the recent past, starring both cartoonists and cartoon characters. While critics debate whether comics is high art or low art, the fact is that the comic strip was born as a commercial medium and was nurtured by competition, commerce, and advertising. Drawing Power will be the first book-length examination (and celebration) of the nexus of art and cartoons. It will focus on the commercial roots of newspaper strips; the cross-promotions of artists, their characters, and retail products; and of the superb artwork that cartoonists invested in their lucrative freelance work in advertising. Drawing Power is cultural history, chronicling a time in popular culture when cartoonists were celebrities and their strips and characters competed with the movies for the attention of a mass audience. The book will examine cartoonists as public personalities, and their advertising efforts from the first heartbeat of the comic strip as an art form. Here are surprising and familiar examples of products, accounts, memorable ad campaigns, and examples of widely known catch-phrases. Examples of individual cartoon ads through the years include: o Yellow Kid advertising o Buster Brown Shoe campaigns o Dr Seuss' 'Flit' cartoons and his longtime career hyping motor oil o WWII ads o Pepsi and Pete by Rube Goldberg o The best-looking comic strip ads ever: Milton Caniff and Noel Sickles (under pen names!) depicting characters' personal crises relieved by a coffee substitute o Little Orphan Annie's famous Ovaltine campaign, and Mickey Mouse as pitch-man o Peanuts shilling Falcons and B.C. shilling Dr. Pepper o Dagwood selling atomic energy o and virtually every super-hero trafficking in the mortal realm to shill every product imaginable.

FREEWAY GN
story Mark Kalesniko art Mark Kalesniko cover Mark Kalesniko.
Alex is an animator and he's angry. Stuck in a traffic jam on his way to his job at 'Mickey Walt' Studios, Alex rages, reminisces, fantasizes and hallucinates about his early days as a starry-eyed animator landing his dream job, through the increasingly depressing political battles and creative compromises. Loaded with insider information on two generations of animators, Freeway is another ambitious step forward for a major cartooning talent.

HIDDEN HC
A NEW TALE OF TERROR FROM COMICS' MASTER OF SUSPENSE -HIS FIRST COLOR BOOK FROM FANTAGRAPHICS
Eight desperate people are stranded at a snowbound diner. Their phones can only pick brief and perplexing bits of conversation. The radio is filled with static - although occasional, broken-up bits of news are heard - reports of some sort of global catastrophe... A ninth person arrives, hiking to the diner from his stranded car, where he had been listening to his car radio. He informs the others that, yes, from what he was been able to make out, something alarming seems to have happened, a catastrophe on a global scale… Oh, and one more bit of local news he happened to pick up, he says: The previous night an inmate escaped from a nearby hospital for the criminally insane, after killing his doctor and several bystanders. The police warn that he is very, very dangerous... What perhaps sounds like the description of an old weird tale or an episode of The Twilight Zone is actually just the beginning of the new suspenseful, brain-twisting graphic novel from the author of Delphine, The Chuckling Whatsit, and Cat Burglar Black. In The Hidden, as the isolated characters become increasingly unraveled, one character tells of a dream he recently had. Then each of the others tells a dream, a personal anecdote or a story they've heard, ranging from the bizarre to the absurd to the truly horrific. Each will be presented as its own chapter. Then there are the games - a selection of (fully illustrated) card games and board games found in the diner. Are these merely children's games - or something more sinister?

POPEYE HC VOL 05 WHAS A JEEP
POPEYE MEETS HIS PAPPY! PLUS SWEE'PEA AND THE JEEP!
Remember last volume's cliffhanger? The penultimate installment of this acclaimed reprinting of E.C. Segar's masterpiece begins with 'Popeye's Ark: Part Two,' the tale of Popeye's eventful reign over Spinachovia - a bleak island populated only by men and lacking all 'femininity' - even as Olive Oyl controls the country of Olivia (not to mention the men of Spinachovia). Then in 'War Clouds,' the two monarchies come tumbling down in a furious battle as Spinachovia is attacked by the tyrannical land-hungry King of Brutia, King Zlobbo! This volume's star is Eugene the Jeep, the rare, friendly, leopard-spotted, and magically-endowed little creature. And Segar makes a great addition to the cast in 'The Search for Popeye's Poppa,' when the ever-cantankerous Poopdeck Pappy is tracked and finally, hilariously found; the title of the follow-up story, 'Civilizing Poppa,' speaks for itself, as it tells the classic tale of man taming beast as Popeye guides a stubborn Pappy through table manners. And as in every volume, this year-and-a-half's worth of full-color Sunday strips are as dazzlingly reproduced as ever. The adventures of Popeye, Olive, Wimpy, Swee'Pea and the gang on the top are complemented with the riotously funny bonus strip 'Sappo,' including a somewhat self-referential storyline where the titular character becomes a cartoonist and teaches the craft to his friend, Professor Wotasnozzle.

STIGMATA HC
STUNNINGLY ILLUSTRATED METAPHYSICAL THRILLER BY EUROPEAN TITAN
He lives day to day and hand to mouth, this shambling lug of a man, wrestling with his demons, picking up work where he can, and drinking himself into oblivion. Until one days his palms begin to bleed… These newfound stigmata lose him his job, and he ends up as part of a traveling carnival, where he even finds love. But his past catches up with him -violently so. Has he lost his last chance at redemption? This stunning graphic novel, executed in a mad, expressionistic swirl of black lines, is the result of a unique collaboration between the preeminent Italian cartoonist/graphist Lorenzo Mattotti (RAW, The New Yorker, and the graphic novels Fires and Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde) and the award-winning Italian screenwriter Claudio Piersanti. LORENZO MATTOTTI lives in Paris, France; his most recent work is The Raven, a collaboration with Lou Reed re-imagining the works of Edgar Allan Poe. CLAUDIO PIERSANTI lives in Italy.

UNLOVABLE COMPLETE COLLECTION HC BOX SET
THE COMPLETE COLLECTION OF A MODERN CLASSIC!
Loosely based on a teenager's diary from the 1980s found in a gas-station bathroom, Unlovable is the remarkable story of Tammy Pierce, as filtered through the pen of Los Angeles artist Esther Pearl Watson. This boxed set collects the complete, acclaimed two-volume saga of Tammy's sophomore year of high school in 1989. Tammy has built a devoted following over the last several years in the pages of BUST magazine, where Unlovable continues to be serialized on the magazine's back page, and this beautifully produced, slipcased collection features all 832 pages of her sometimes ordinary, sometimes humiliating, often poignant and always hilarious exploits. Her hopes, dreams, agonies and defeats are brought to vivid, comedic life by Watson's lovingly grotesque drawings, filled with all the eighties essentials - too much mascara, leg warmers with heels and huge hair, etc. - as well as timeless teen concerns like acne, dandruff, and the opposite sex (or same sex, in some cases). Unlovable addresses the mysteries of adolescence through Tammy's naievete; girls and women in particular will find much that resonates, but men will also relate to Unlovable's universal humor and wide cast of characters. Tammy's life isn't pretty, but it is endlessly charming and hilarious. This complete edition will be handsomely packaged in an irresistibly sparkly box that would make Tammy proud.

Also available:
BLECKY YUCKERELLA GN VOL 01
BLECKY YUCKERELLA GN VOL 02 BACK IN BLECK
BLECKY YUCKERELLA GN VOL 03 COMICS FOR IDIOTS
CHUCKLING WHATSIT TP
PECULIA & THE GROON GROVE VAMPIRES GN
POPEYE HC VOL 01 I YAM WHAT I YAM
POPEYE HC VOL 02 WELL BLOW ME DOWN
POPEYE HC VOL 03 LETS YOU AND HIM FIGHT
POPEYE HC VOL 04 PLUNDER ISLAND

LAST GASP

BEST EROTIC COMICS 2010 SC
The acclaimed adult comics anthology series enters its third year! From the poignantly sweet to the enticingly strange, with work by Robert Crumb, Ellen Forney, Molly Crabapple, Joe 'Superman' Shuster, and more, Vol. 3: Sweet Meat, Strange Spice offers a cornucopia to tickle the libido and the mind, with the sexiest, smartest, nastiest, most breathtakingly beautiful work in today's erotic comics -- plus some original unpublished work and a handful of vintage Hall of Fame pieces. Adult.

KRAMPUS THE DEVIL OF CHRISTMAS HC
(W) Monte Beauchamp (A) Various.
Now in available in Hardcover! In the early Christmas traditions of Europe, the 'Krampus' was St. Nicholas' dark servant - a hairy, horned, supernatural beast whose pointed ears and long slithering tongue gave misbehavers the creeps! This new and improved edition includes an introduction, a historical survey of the character, and over 180 lavish pre-World War 1 Krampus postcard images.

MARION PECK ANIMAL SUMMER LOVE HC
(W/A) Various.
One of the leading ladies of pop surrealism, Marion Peck populates her dreamlike paintings with strange, cute creatures. Themes of hope, despair, mystery, nostalgia, love and death recur throughout Peck's work alongside motifs of dreams, big-eyed animals, natural landscapes, doe-eyed children, royalty and peasantry. Peck looks beyond the subconscious, reminding us that the waking world is never quite as it seems.

PICTUREBOX

MY NEW NEW YORK DIARY HC
(W) Julie Doucet, Michel Gondry (A) Julie Doucet.
In 2008, the famed director Michel Gondry (Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind) proposed to legendary cartoonist Julie Doucet that they make a film together. Little did Gondry and Doucet know that the process itself would be the film, and they'd soon be starring in a 'reality' comic and film of their own devising. My New New York Diary contains all of Doucet's drawings for the film, as well as the DVD containing the film itself. Both the film and Doucet's graphic novella are being released only in this deluxe, hardcover volume which does full justice to the richness and warmth of Doucet and Gondry's collaboration.

Also available:
AMERICAN SH*T FOR BRAINS POSTER

SLAVE LABOR GRAPHICS

ROYAL HISTORIAN OF OZ #3
(W) Tommy Kovac (A) Andy Hirsch.
Zik alerts Jasper to Frank's disappearance, but can't communicate it clearly enough to explain. An exasperated Zik (unable to communicate the kidnapping) leads Jasper to a ransom note.

Also available:
HAUNTED MANSION HC VOL 01 WELCOME FOOLISH MORTAL
SKELEBUNNIES GN
STITCH GN
TRON TP VOL 01 GHOST IN THE MACHINE

TOP SHELF PRODUCTIONS

BB WOLF & 3 LPS HC LTD MUSIC ED
(W) J.D. Arnold (A) Rich Koslowski.
This limited edition of B.B. Wolf & The 3 LP's comes with a special CD of Blues songs recorded specifically to accompany the graphic novel. Set in the Mississippi Delta of the 1920s, this is a classic story of racial injustice, murder, revenge, and music, all told through the clever re-telling of a timeless fairy tale. B.B.'s life seemed simple. But his simple life comes crashing down when the LPs decide to take his land by any means possible. When all is lost, B.B. lashes out, setting into motion acts of revenge that only a big bad wolf could unleash.

PLAYWRIGHT HC
(W) Eddie Campbell (A) Daren White.
The Playwright enjoys a quiet moment in the local park. Once he saw a pigeon defecate onto a businessman's shoulder; it struck him as absurd that such an event is considered lucky. Similarly, the Playwright derived an almost perverse sense of relief upon receiving news that an old friend has developed prostate cancer. The Playwright: a dark comedy about the sex life of a celibate middle-aged man. Mature readers.

THE KING GN
(W/A) Rich Koslowski.
The King is an offbeat tale of one very enigmatic Elvis impersonator that's taking the Vegas strip and the world by storm! His performances are mesmerizing, and many fans begin to believe that he really is Elvis. Through thought-provoking interviews and investigative reporting, a journalist makes it his personal mission to find out who 'The King' really is.

WORLD WAR 3 ILLUSTRATED #41
(E) Sandy Jiminez.
Consider the 'Food Chain,'our place in it and our relationship and experiences with/within it, both literally and metaphorically. Big fish eat little fish; rich men eat organic; poor men eat McDonald's. Everybody eats, but how do we stop from being eaten? This issue unearths some of the answers and asks the big questions. Featuring work by Peter Kuper, Seth Tobocman, Sabrina Jones, Jennifer Camper, Rebecca Migdal, Mac McGill, Sandy Jimenez, and many others. Mature readers.

Also available:
KORGI GN VOL 01 SPROUTING WINGS
OWLY GN VOL 01 WAY HOME
SPIRAL-BOUND GN

All of these items are available through Discount Comic Book Service (DCBS) or for pre-order from your local comic shop.

Countdown to APE: Tony Millionaire Interview

2010-10-07T08:10:00.003-05:00

This interview with Tony Millionaire, conducted by PLAYBACK:stl was from 2008. He's another one of the special guests at this year's APE.

Fantagraphics 20% Sale + Free Shipping!

2010-10-07T07:57:00.002-05:00

Fantagraphics is having a "Good News, Bad News" Sale... While the good news may be obvious, the bad news is that orders placed between now and the 20th won't be shipped until the 20th due to them moving their warehouse.

Although there will be a delay, it's worth waiting for the books if you can save big.

Amazon Deal of the Day: Angel

2010-10-07T07:50:00.003-05:00

Over at Amazon you can get the first five seasons of Angel for just $50.99. Today only!

Countdown to APE: Tommy Kovac Interview

2010-10-05T08:10:00.002-05:00

Tommy Kovac is another one of the special guests at this year's APE. You can read an interview conducted by Comic Book Resources here.

Countdown to APE: Isotope Award Preview

2010-10-04T22:39:00.002-05:00

A nice video spotlighting the Isotope Award for Excellence in Mini-Comics, given out each year at APE.

7th Dimension Friday

2010-10-02T08:32:00.001-05:00

Earthsearch (10 of 10) Click here to listen.
"Earthfall". The crew locate an earth-like planet, but the Angels are not beaten yet.

Charles Chilton - Journey into Space (10 of 20) Click here to listen.
"The Red Planet". Captain Jet Morgan's crew are on Mars, but he's alarmed when more of the fleet arrive.

This week's schedule.
BBC Radio 7

New 2000 AD Online Releases

2010-10-01T08:18:00.003-05:00

Recent 2000 AD ebooks released through Clickwheel.

2000 AD

PROG #1703
CRY WOLF! -- Rowan hits the streets as the Lycanthropes take London -- Featuring Judge Dredd, Defoe, Age of the Wolf, Low Life and Nikolai Dante -- Only $2.99 US (retails for $3.75 US)

(2000 AD and JUDGE DREDD MEGAZINE are published by 2000 AD/Rebellion.)

7th Dimension Thursday

2010-10-01T08:14:00.001-05:00

Earthsearch (9 of 10) Click here to listen.
"Star Cluster". The starship Challenger's crew act on suspicions in their battle to find Earth.

Charles Chilton - Journey into Space (9 of 20) Click here to listen.
"The Red Planet". Arriving on Mars, Captain Jet Morgan and crew prepare to start explorations. From 1954.

This week's schedule.
BBC Radio 7

Countdown to APE: Promo Poster

2010-09-30T19:06:00.004-05:00

Created by Rich Koslowski (The 3 Geeks, BB Wolf and the 3 LPs).
More APE info here.

Countdown to APE: Programming and Events Announced

2010-09-30T08:17:00.006-05:00

The programming schedule for this year's APE has been released! Here's what to expect over the weekend:
PROGRAMMING

Saturday, Oct 16th

12:00-1:00 Spotlight on Megan Kelso—A retrospective of the career so far of APE special guest Megan Kelso, beginning with her drawing minicomics in 1990 at the Evergreen State College during the early years of the DIY zine explosion. Kelso will talk about the phases she's gone through in her storytelling: college, sex, family, history, and homesickness, and how all these themes found their way into her acclaimed new graphic novel, Artichoke Tales. Marc Weidenbaum, whose career as a comics editor has paralleled her own, will ask questions along the way. Megan Kelso's appearance courtesy Fantagraphics Books.

1:00-2:00 The Bay Area Comics Scene Through the Years—The Bay area comics community has changed and progressed over the last 40 years, from the wild heyday of the '60s to the new generation of cartoonist doing comics today. This lively, freestyle discussion explores the Bay area's flourishing comics community. Panelists include Dylan Williams (Sparkplug comic publisher and founder of the seminal '90s comics collective Puppy Toss), Gene Yang (award winning cartoonist of American Born Chinese and part of the Art Night Collective), Susie Cagle (up-and-coming cartoonist and part of the new Vibrate Bay Area comic scene), and others. Moderated by Thien Pham.

2:00-3:00 Spotlight on Daniel Clowes—Critically acclaimed, award-winning, bestselling cartoonist, Oscar-nominated screenwriter, and APE special guest Daniel Clowes will be in conversation with PictureBox publisher and Comics Comics editor Dan Nadel. They will discuss Clowes's most recent graphic novel, Wilson, published by Drawn & Quarterly. His current projects include both comics and film, and his backlist of titles include Ghost World, David Boring, and Ice Haven. The two will explore comics history, including Wally Wood, Peanuts, Will Elder, and others. Join one of the most preeminent cartoonists with one of the foremost comics scholars working today as they engage in a cerebral and fascinating discussion of Clowes's oeuvre.

3:00-4:00 Queer Cartoonists—LGBT cartoonists have always faced unique challenges and yet also offered unique perspectives. As queer stories move increasingly into the mainstream, what role do queer comics play, and are they helping the gay agenda take over the world? Join this dynamic panel -- in its seventh year at APE -- with a particularly diverse and fabulous line-up of cartoonists: APE special guest Tommy Kovac (Stitch), Jon Macy (Teleny and Camille), Desmond Miller (Hansel and Gretel: Agents of the Coven), Christine Smith (Eve's Apple), Rick Worley (A Waste of Time), Sean Z (Myth), and moderator Justin Hall (Glamazonia).

4:00-5:00 Spotlight on Lynda Barry—One of the most influential cartoonists of the past 30 years, APE special guest Lynda Barry has worked as a painter, cartoonist, writer, illustrator, playwright, editor, commentator, and teacher and has found they are all very much alike. With her publisher, Drawn & Quarterly, she launches her brand new book, the how-to/memoir/graphic novel Picture This, at APE. This uncategorizable book is the "how-to-draw" companion to the bestselling and Eisner Award–winning "how-to-write" book What It Is. At this panel, Barry will explore Picture This in an engaging slide show that is sure to be standing room only, thanks to Barry's wildly enigmatic, popular, and hilarious stage presence, which not only commands the attention of every attendee but leaves them crying, laughing, and floored with inspiration. Seeing Barry in person is life changing!

5:00-6:00 Spotlight on Tony Millionaire—APE special guest Tony Millionaire, the mad genius behind Sock Monkey, Maakies, and Drinky Crow, talks with Fantagraphics's Eric Reynolds about his career in comics and his wild life. Here's a hint: Tony will be the one in the fancy tuxedo. The guy will really class up the joint.

6:00-7:00 Spotlight on Renée French—A conversation between APE special guest RRenée French and publisher/comics historian Dan Nadel about Renée's new book, H Day. How does a cartoonist translate something as abstract as a migraine into the concrete form of a book? And why? Renée will talk about this challenge, her drawing process, and will briefly look back at her extraordinary career. Renée French appearance courtesy of PictureBox.

Sunday, Oct 17th

12:00-1:00 Writer's Old Fashioned—The Writer's Old Fashioned group is the latest in a long line of illustrious San Francisco–based comics movements and is proving to be one of the most dynamic. Originally a small group of comics writers who began meeting in 2006 to exchange ideas, provide feedback, and imbibe a few drinks, WOF has expanded to include some cartoonists, comics illustrators, and even teetotalers. Moderator Justin Hall (Glamazonia) will grill Kirsten Baldock (Smoke and Guns), Stephenny Godfrey (Panorama), Jason McNamara (Martian Confederacy), Matt Silady (The Homeless Channel), Emily Stackhouse (Brazilia Noir), and Storm (Princess Witch Boy) about their creative endeavors and drinking habits.

1:00-2:00 Spotlight on Tommy Kovac—Meet the writer of the acclaimed Wonderland miniseries (from SLG and Disney Press) and the current hit The Royal Historian of Oz. APE special guest Tommy Kovac talks about writing new stories based on classic literature without having to totally reinvent the source material. (You can also ask him where Skelebunnies fits into the whole thing.) Moderated by APE founder and SLG honcho Dan Vado. Tommy Kovac appearance courtesy of SLG.

2:00–3:00 The Art of Storytelling—What role does art play in telling a story in comics format? Enjoy this discussion of art and comics with APE special guests Lynda Barry (What It Is), Renée French (H Day), and Megan Kelso (Artichoke Tales), plus Tom Neely (The Blot) and Jen Wang (Koko Be Good). Moderated by Greg Means (Tugboat Press).

3:00-4:00 Spotlight on Rich Koslowski: The Trials, Tribulations and (Sometimes) Triumphs of the Indie Comics World—For one hour APE special guest Rich Koslowski (The 3 Geeks, Three Fingers, BB Wolf and the 3 LPs) will "tell all" about his experiences in the comic book biz: the Good, the Bad and the Ugly! No questions will be dodged! Moderated by Gary Sassaman, the director of print and publications for Comic-Con and Koslowski's publishing partner in the fondly remembered Geeksville.

4:00-4:45 Indie Comics Survival Guide—Join 2010 Comic-Con Inkpot Award winner Keith Knight (the K Chronicles, Knight Life, (th)ink), as he once again gives you the lowdown on how to not only survive, but thrive in this ever-evolving industry we call COMICS! With Stephen Notley (Bob the Angry Flower), Mat Bors (editorial cartoonist for United Media), and C. Spike Trotman (Templar, AZ).

4:45-5:30 CBLDF: The Fight For Intellectual Freedom—More than 50 years after Frederic Wertham's Seduction of the Innocent, comics and other media still come under the attack of censors. Charles Brownstein, executive director of the CBLDF, is joined by cartoonist Keith Knight and other panelists for a discussion of current trends in comics censorship and how we all can get involved in protecting intellectual freedom.

WORKSHOPS

Saturday, Oct 16th

12:00 Creating Fantasy Characters, with Brian Kolm (Atomic Bear Press, Beyond the Great Chimney)

1:00 Smile! Drawing Facial Expressions, with Raina Telgemeier (Smile, The Babysitters Club)

2:00 Finding Your Voice: Character Dialogue, with Spike (Templar, Arizona)

3:00 Write Funny! with Andrew Farago (Cartoon Art Museum gallery manager and curator, Looney Tunes Treasury) and Shaenon K. Garrity (Skin Horse, Narbonic)

4:00 Creation Myths: Bringing Life to Your characters, with Jon "Bean" Hastings (Terrabella Smoot and the Unsung Monsters, Smith Brown Jones, Alien Accountant)

5:00 Surrealist Comics: Bringing Fantasy into Your Slice-of-Life Stories, with Jamaica Dyer (Weird Fishes)

6:00 Pacing in Comics, with Members of the Writers Old-Fashioned Group

Sunday, Oct 17th

12:00 Marketing a Comic That's Easier to Read Than to Describe, with Larry Marder (Tales from the Beanworld)

1:00 Developing a Comic Strip, with Jonathan Lemon (Rabbits Against Magic)

2:00 Storytelling Craft and Creation, with Kraig Rasmussen (The Dragon Thief, San Francisco Cartoonist Conspiracy)

3:00 Character Design, with Alexis Fajardo (Kid Beowulf)

4:00 Gag Cartooning and the Single-Panel Comic, with Shannon Wheeler (Two Much Coffee Man)

COMICS COLLABORATION CONNECTION

You're a writer with a great idea for a comic book series, but you can't draw; or maybe you're an artist looking for a great script to draw. Both of you are looking to jumpstart your career in comics. At APE 2010, you just might find each other!

The Alternative Press Expo introduces Comics Collaboration Connection, an event that puts writers and artists together to see whether they can find their creative counterparts. Here's how it works: in two 2-hour sessions, on Saturday and Sunday, writers and artists can sit down and meet each other in a neutral environment. In 15-minute sessions, you can talk one-on-one with individual prospective collaborators about their ideas and skills. At the end of each 15-minute period, you will get up and move on to the next person. If you're interested in furthering the conversation, you place your contact info (name and e-mail address) in an envelope supplied for each participant.

On Saturday, Oct. 16, writers will sit at large tables and artists will take turns visiting each one; on Sunday, Oct. 17, the roles will be reversed, with artists sitting at the tables and writers visiting them. Saturday's Comics Collaboration Connection is from 4:00PM to 6:00PM; Sunday's is from 3:00PM to 5:00PM. You can sign up in advance online by sending an e-mail to programs@comic-con.org and typing "APE Comics Collaboration Connection" in the subject line. Please indicate whether you're a writer seeking an artist or an artist seeking a writer. You can also sign up onsite at APE.

For more info about APE, check out their website.

7th Dimension Wednesday

2010-09-30T08:03:00.001-05:00

Earthsearch (8 of 10) Click here to listen.
"Marooned". The crew of Challenger has escaped - but their starship has vanished.

Charles Chilton - Journey into Space (8 of 20) Click here to listen.
"The Red Planet". As the Jet and the crew approach Mars, strange noises and dreams affect them. From 1954.

This week's schedule.
BBC Radio 7

Welcome to Driftwood, Page 6

2010-09-29T03:36:00.002-05:00

Free Comic: Left 4 Dead: The Sacrifice

2010-09-28T21:15:00.004-05:00

IGN brought forth an incredible pdf version of Valve's Left 4 Dead prequel comic that gets folks ready for the upcoming game. It's written and drawn by Mike Oeming (Thor, Powers) and completely free. Go read it here.

Amazon Deal of the Day: Smallville

2010-09-28T20:42:00.003-05:00

Today only, you can get Smallville: The Complete Seasons 1-8 for only $144.99 (plus free shipping!) at Amazon. It's regularly priced at $479.98.
Hurry, it ends tonight!

Countdown to APE: Lovesick Robot Press

2010-09-28T20:35:00.005-05:00

Coverless has a nice piece up about a promising looking indie comic group called Lovesick Robot Press. It's really good and so instead of doing my own post about them, I'm just gonna direct you over there.

Be sure to check out their website, too. I'll be watching for these guys when I go next month.

Countdown to APE: Rich Koslowski Interview

2010-09-28T20:25:00.003-05:00

Rich Koslowski (artist of BB WOLF AND THE THREE LPs) got the interview treatment over at Comic Book Resources back in April. Read it here.

Rich is another one of the special guests at this year's APE.

7th Dimension Tuesday

2010-09-28T19:43:00.001-05:00

Earthsearch (7 of 10) Click here to listen.
"New Blood". The Challenger has found its sister starship, but the crew are living in total isolation.

Charles Chilton - Journey into Space (7 of 20) Click here to listen.
"The Red Planet". The crew try to locate Freighter 6 and Captain Jet has a nightmare. From 1954.

This week's schedule.
BBC Radio 7

7th Dimension Monday

2010-09-28T19:39:00.001-05:00

Earthsearch (6 of 10) Click here to listen.
"Across the Abyss". Searching for Earth, the starship Challenger heads towards star cluster Tersus 9.

Charles Chilton - Journey into Space (6 of 20) Click here to listen.
"The Red Planet". Captain Jet Morgan and his crew receive warnings to turn back - but who from?

This week's schedule.
BBC Radio 7

Welcome to Driftwood, Page 5

2010-09-27T01:36:00.003-05:00

7th Dimension Sunday

2010-09-26T21:25:00.003-05:00

The Devil in Amber (1 of 5) Click here to listen.
Dandy secret agent Lucifer Box investigates drug-related dealings in 1920s Manhattan.

Fear on Four Click here to listen.
"St Austin Friars". The Man in Black reveals how a new vicar takes on more than he bargained for.

This week's schedule.
BBC Radio 7

Welcome to Driftwood, Page 4

2010-09-26T18:14:00.002-05:00

Indie Comics for November 2010

2010-09-26T09:51:00.012-05:00

Some good looking comics being released in November. Need to start working on my order.

ADHOUSE BOOKS

LONE PINE GN
(W/A) Jed McGowan.
A distraught man retreats to the woods with a simple question on his mind: why did his last relationship end? He's soon deep in a world of cryptic messages, shadowy figures, guns and philosophical crisis. A page-turning mystery told with exciting formal invention, Lone Pine is Jed McGowan's debut graphic novel and a 2010 Xeric winner.

BIG IF COMICS

POOD #2
(W/A) Jim Rugg, Joe Infumari, Sara Edward Corbett, Hans Rickheit, Various.
Featuring some of the brightest talents in alternative comics in a big, colorful broadsheet newspaper right out of the Golden Age of Sunday Comics - every page of pood #2, is loaded with imaginative cartooning, rich story-telling, and hilarious escapades! Every one of pood's 16 enormous pages is a big, beautiful work of art!

DRAWN & QUARTERLY

ACME NOVELTY LIBRARY HC #20
(W/A/C) Chris Ware.
The landmark 20th volume of the seminal comic book series! Jordan Wellington Lint, 51, is Chief Executive Officer of Lint Financial Products, a company he began serving in 1985 as assistant and advisor before working his way up its corporate ladder to record-setting innovation in the fields of finance and high-yield investment. In his seven years as the head of Lint, Jordan has grown the company from a business lender and real estate speculator to a leading provider of network financial infrastructure services, all the while positioning Lint as a model of corporate integrity and high-yield, low-risk product. Lint's vision has made him one of the most influential and widely sought-after leaders in the complex Omaha securities industry, and his fresh approach to an understanding of local problems, leadership and determination have enabled Lint to grow, outdistance and outpace its competitors. Lint graduated from UNL in 1981 with a BA in Business and briefly studied music and recording in Los Angeles before returning to his hometown of Omaha, Nebraska, where he has continued his life journey ever since. In his ongoing role as Chief Executive Officer and his dual roles as public servant and father, Lint continues to put his creative leadership and vision to work in a variety of challenging settings. He is married and is the father of two boys.

DENYS WORTMANS NEW YORK TP
(W/A) Denys Wortman (E) James Sturm, Brandon Elston.
A rescued archive of vintage New York from a forgotten master! After cartoonist, educator and editor James Sturm discovered the vintage book, Mopey Dick and the Duke, he set off to find more about the author, the deceased and unknown cartoonist Denys Wortman. Sturm immediately took note of the masterful drawings - casual, confident, and brimming with personality - and wondered how this cartoonist escaped his radar. After some online sleuthing, Sturm connected with Wortman's son, Denys Wortman VIII, who relayed that an archive of over 5,000 illustrations was literally sitting in his shed in dire need of rescuing. For over 35 years, the illustrations had been fighting such elements as hungry rodents, rusty paperclips and even a blizzard. Wortman VIIII also had drawers full of his father's correspondences including letters and holiday cards from William Steig and Walt Disney. Original artwork by artists and personal friends including Peggy Bacon, Milt Gross, Isabel Bishop, and Reginald Marsh were also saved. Considering that Wortman's luminary peers held him in the highest regard coupled with his artistic prowess, makes his absence from both fine art and comics history puzzling. So, Sturm and Brandon Elston set out to create a beautiful tribute to the forgotten master. Denys Wortman's New York is not only a tribute to Wortman, but it is a tribute to New York, the city that sparked Wortman's voracious creative output. From coal cellars to rooftops; from opera houses to boarding houses; Wortman recorded the sailors, dish-washers, con artists, entertainers, pushcart peddlers, construction workers, musicians, hobos, society matrons, young mothers, secretaries, and students who collectively make New York the city it is.

Also available-
ACME NOVELTY DATEBOOK HC VOL 02
ACME NOVELTY LIBRARY HC #19
ACME NOVELTY LIBRARY VOL 18.5 PX PORTFOLIO

FANTAGRAPHICS

CAPTAIN EASY HC VOL 02 SOLDIER OF FORTUNE
In Captain Easy Vol. 2: The Complete Sunday Newspaper Strips, Roy Crane's Soldier of Fortune, Captain Easy, fights for gold in the frozen north, is mistaken for a bandit, protects a formula for artificial diamonds, is stranded on a desert island, visits the tiny Balkan country of Kleptomania, and faces a firing squad. Captain Easy hobnobs with millionaires and bums and beautiful girls (of course), and winds up in the middle of a full-scale war. In short, it's another rousing series of adventure and humor encapsulating the gallantry, derring-do, and rough-and-tumble innocence of a bygone era and a bygone genre, written and drawn with panache, and practically painted in a vibrant spectrum of colors that you have to see to believe.

CASTLE WAITING HC VOL 02
With its second volume, Linda Medley's witty and sublimely drawn fantasy eases into a relaxed comedy of manners as Lady Jain settles into her new life in Castle Waiting. Unexpected visitors result in the discovery and exploration of a secret passageway, not to mention an epic bowling tournament. A quest for ladies' underpants, the identity of Pindar's father, the education of Simon, Rackham and Chess arguing about the 'manly arts,' and an escape-prone goat are just a few of the elements in this delightful new volume. The book also includes many flashbacks that deepen the stories behind the characters, including Jain's earliest romantic entanglements and conflicts with her bratty older sisters, the horrific past of the enigmatic Dr. Fell, and more.

KING OF FLIES HC VOL 02
Readers have had to wait nine months for the second chapter in Mezzo and Pirus's creepily sexy suburban soap opera - but here at last is the second installment. (The concluding third volume will appear in 2011.) Eric the fly-head-wearing teenager is back (as well as his hapless mother and her 'fiance'), as are not-quite-ingenue Marie, the worldly Sal, Denis the drug dealer and his now one-handed father, and of course the loopy retro bowling thug Ringo... plus several new cast members, including one who died at the very beginning of the first volume and has now returned to roam the earth. Once again, the story is told through a series of seemingly unrelated short stories which eventually become intricately braided into one sprawling tale of a community haunted by obsession,rage, regret and despair - in sum, a graphic novel for the 21st century.

KRAZY AND IGNATZ HC SKETCHBOOK 1910-1913
As comic strip scholars well know, George Herriman's Krazy Kat strip made its debut as a pint-sized supplementary strip running below the Family Upstairs strip before emancipating itself to its own, long-running strip. What scholars are not aware of, however, is that as part of his work process, Herriman used to draw a complete, essentially finished version of each installment of the 'Family Upstairs' Krazy Kat in a sketchbook before carefully redrawing it as part of the daily Family Upstairs. Which means that there exist 'original' versions of hundred upon hundreds of Krazy Kat strips that have literally never been published anywhere... until now. This will also include a supplementary booklet containing an essay on Herriman, and a large sampling of the final, published Krazy Kat strips, allowing readers to compare and contrast with the original sketchbook version.

MASCOTS HC
Mascots is a collection of vignettes and brief impressionistic scenes that concentrate on moments, characters, settings and ideas. Many of these vignettes are independent; a cast of characters who wander throughout the book intrude upon others. Despite seemingly disparate parts, themes recur over and over in Mascots, and when taken together as a whole form a world that is strange, sad, funny and familiar. Formally, the book is made up of small, brightly colored drawings and paintings done on found book covers. Mascots is driven by lettering and type, part art and part comics. Mascots are exaggerated, ridiculous representatives, giving form to the abstract. They don't give this form in a subtle way; they're surreal magnifications, explosions of the thing they represent. The recurring characters in Mascots are like this, but so are the vignettes themselves. Each scene pushes past normal, exaggerating in order to highlight. In the world of Mascots, failure is everywhere. There is failure to connect, failure to communicate and failure to find meaning, but despite that, there are moments of hope, transcendence and even happy endings.

TWILIGHT O/T A-HOLES GN
Tim Kreider's first cartoon collection, The Pain-When Will It End? was one of the few bastions of sanity throughout the awful aberration in American history known as the Bush Administration. The end of his second volume of political cartoons, Why Do They Kill Me?, saw its author in despair over the 2004 election. In this new volume, Twilight of the Assholes, as reality gets ever bleaker, Kreider's humor becomes increasingly apocalyptic, deranged, and hilarious. He juxtaposes the Biblical Christ with His blonde, flag-draped, machine-gun-toting American incarnation in 'Jesus vs. Jeezus,' proposes a third political party that represents Americans' real values in 'The Sex Party,' draws the dead Saddam Hussein as a mischievous invisible imp still causing trouble, and envisions the officials of the Bush administration getting their comeuppance in the grisly fashion of Dick Tracy villains. And he finds two cartoons' worth of 'Reasons to Look Forward to the Next Terrorist Attack.' Also included is his infamous entry into Iran's Holocaust cartoon contest, 'Silver Linings of the Holocaust.' Kreider mocks not only the evil and hapless Bush, but the fecklessness of progressives, the imbecile bigotry of radical Islam, and, most of all, the dumb bovine complacency of the American voter. Twilight of the Assholes is an hysterical chronicle of the end of the Era of Darkness, and, believe it or not, a heartening document of one man's loss and tentative restoration of faith in democracy.

USAGI YOJIMBO SPECIAL EDITION HC
by Stan Sakai 7 x 10.25, HC, 1200 pages, Partial Color, $100.00.
Created in 1984, Stan Sakai's USAGI YOJIMBO (2008 Eisner Nominee for Best Continuing Series) has vaulted to the forefront of iconic modern comics characters and is a perennial, favorite. Stuffed with engaging supporting characters, villains, and even a romantic interest or two, USAGI YOJIMBO chronicles the action-packed wanderings of a masterless samurai in feudal Japan. For the first ten years of his career, the battling bunny was published by Fantagraphics. In honor of his 25th anniversary, Fantagraphics is releasing a deluxe slipcase set collecting the first seven USAGI YOJIMBO books! With over 1000 pages of story and brimming with extra's (full color cover gallery! behind the scenes art! career-spanning interview! and more!), this is the complete! definitive! early USAGI YOJIMBO!
(DCBS has a special deal on this one. Half off!)

Also available-
BEST AMERICAN COMICS CRITICISM SC
CAPTAIN EASY HC VOL 01 SOLDIER OF FORTUNE
CASTLE WAITING HC VOL 01
HALL OF BEST KNOWLEDGE SC
KAT WHO WALKED IN BEAUTY PANORAMIC DAILIES OF 1920 HC
KING OF FLIES HC VOL 01
SEARCH FOR SMILIN ED GN
WEATHERCRAFT HC
WHY DO THEY KILL ME TP

PICTUREBOX

H DAY HC
(W/A) Renee French.
In H Day, Renee French explores, through metaphor and in pictures, her struggles with migraine headaches, marshaling troops of insects, beasts and humanoids to envision the processes that result in such hideous sensations. A sweeping, often tense narrative of invasion, repulsion and liberation, H Day can be read both as an oblique autobiography and as a suspenseful fantasy story.

Also available-
AMERICAN SH*T FOR BRAINS POSTER

SLAVE LABOR GRAPHICS

ELMER GN
(W/A) Gerry Alanguilan Elmer opens a window into a world where chickens have suddenly acquired the intelligence and consciousness of humans, where they can now consider themselves a race no different than browns, black, or whites. Recognizing themselves to be sentient, the inexplicably evolved chickens push to attain rights for themselves as the newest members of the human race.

NIGHTMARES & FAIRY TALES ANNABELLES STORY #1
(W) Serena Valentino (A) FSc.
Nightmares & Fairy Tales returns for a four issue series featuring the original creative team of Serena Valentino and FSc. Gwen and Annabelle venture off to find Morgan, a young woman who has been locked away in an asylum for many years for murders she did not commit. Soon, they find themselves in an abandoned town haunted by its own bloody past!
(DCBS has a special deal on this one. Half off!)

SPACE RAOUL GN VOL 01
(W/A) Jamie Smart Part adventurer, part explorer, part space captain, and all-around chap, Raoul is the upholder of all that is good in the universe! Serialized in the pages of The Dandy, Space Raoul is the reddest space hero of all time. With his trusty green lump of a sidekick, Quibble, Space Raoulinevitably makes matters far worse before they get better. And if they don't get better, he can always run away!

Also available-
BEAR TP VOL 01 IMMORTAL
GLOOMCOOKIE TP VOL 01
GLOOMCOOKIE TP VOL 02
GLOOMCOOKIE TP VOL 03
GLOOMCOOKIE TP VOL 04
GLOOMCOOKIE TP VOL 05
UBU BUBU TP VOL 01 FILTH

TOP SHELF PRODUCTIONS

JOHNNY BOO HC VOL 01 BEST LITTLE GHOST IN THE WORLD
(W/A) James Kochalka.
Johnny Boo is the best little ghost in the whole world because he's got Boo Power. This means that he can go 'Boo!' really loudly. His pet ghost, named Squiggle, has Squiggle Power, which means that he can fly and do really fast loop-the-loops. Together they have the world's greatest ghost adventures!

TONOHARU GN PART 2
(W/A) Lars Martinson.
As the months go by, Dan Wells settles into his life as an assistant junior high school teacher in the rural Japanese village of Tonoharu. Isolated from those around him by language and cultural barriers, he leads a solitary existence, until the day an unrequited crush extends him a dinner invitation. Dan's quiet life will expand in unexpected directions. But will this be beneficial - or detrimental?

Also available-
JOHNNY BOO HC VOL 02 TWINKLE POWER
JOHNNY BOO HC VOL 03 HAPPY APPLES
TONOHARU GN PART 1

These can all be ordered through DCBS or your local comic shop.

7th Dimension Saturday

2010-09-25T22:35:00.002-05:00

Nathaniel Hawthorne - Rappaccini's Daughter Click here to listen.
A man gets obsessed with the mysterious girl next door. Stars Joseph Cohen-Cole.

Franza Kafka - Metamorphosis (4 of 4) Click here to listen.
Living with his monstrous insect form, Gregor faces the ultimate rejection by his family.

This week's schedule.
BBC Radio 7

Driftwood Preview

2010-09-25T21:47:00.002-05:00

After much delay... I'm hard at work on the last three pages of "Welcome to Driftwood".

Picked This Up Today

2010-09-25T18:16:00.004-05:00

BATMAN: BRAVE AND THE BOLD, Season 1 Part 1. Found it at Walmart for $15.

Loved this show and I had all the episodes DVR'd but lost them when I switched from satellite to cable.

Episodes in this set-
1. Rise of the Blue Beetle!
2. Terror on Dinosaur Island!
3. Evil Under the Sea!
4. Invasion of the Secret Santas!
5. Day of the Dark Knight!
6. Enter the Outsiders!
7. Dawn of the Dead Man!
8. Fall of the Blue Beetle!
9. Journey to the Center of the Bat!
10. The Eyes of Despero!
11. Return of the Five Fearsome Fangs!
12. Deep Cover the Batman! (Part 1)
13. Game Over for Owlman! (Part 2)

I especially liked the references to the '60s Batman series.

Here's the jazzy intro theme:

Hmmm... I may have to see if there's a Secret Saturdays DVD...

Comic Shop Webcam

2010-09-25T15:36:00.003-05:00

This is pretty neat.

If you're like me and don't have access to a regular brick n mortar comic shop, you probably do most of your comics shopping online.

And if you do... here's something to make it feel more human.

Star Clipper is a comics shop in St. Louis that has a live webcam feed. So now you can pretend you went to a real store when you make your next order online.

Go here to check out the live video.

Best Comic Shops of the Country

2010-09-25T08:17:00.006-05:00

Flavorwire did a survey of who their readers thought were the best indie comic shops across America.
Here's the Top 10.

Chicago's Quimby's made the list and Brooklyn's Desert Island got an honerable mention.

As for the rest, here are some clues: You can find them in Baltimore, New York, Berkeley, Brooklyn, Los Angeles, Seattle, Austin, Portland and Columbus.

They also provide links for all the shops.

Plus, check out their Top 10 American Indie Record Stores and Top 10 American Indie Bookstores lists.

7th Dimension Friday

2010-09-24T23:07:00.001-05:00

Earthsearch (5 of 10) Click here to listen.
"The Pools of Time". The starship closes in on Zelda 5, where Darv and Astra face death as captives.

Charles Chilton - Journey into Space (5 of 20) Click here to listen.
"The Red Planet". With communications to Earth lost, Jet Morgan's courage is tested during a meteor swarm.

This week's schedule.
BBC Radio 7

Countdown to APE: Megan Kelso Interview

2010-09-24T20:22:00.004-05:00

Counting down the days to APE...
Here's an interview that Comic Book Resources did with Megan Kelso back in June.

Megan, creator of ARTICHOKE TALES, is another one of the special guests this year.

Free Comic: Strongman

2010-09-24T19:30:00.003-05:00

Read the first 22 pages of STRONGMAN Vol 2 by Charles Soule and Allen Gladfelter. Mexican wrestlers take on criminals! Download your copy here.

New Fantagraphics Sale

2010-09-24T08:28:00.002-05:00

From now until the 30th enjoy 20% off comics and graphic novels by international creators.
Go here to scope out the deals.

Also check out the free comic book day edition of I.G.N.A.T.Z. from 2008 that serves as a great sampler for many of the books on sale.

Mini-Comic Mayhem

2010-09-23T23:37:00.003-05:00

Is there still a future in mini-comics? I think so.

However, here's a couple of interesting thoughts on the subject. One from Comics Comics and one from The Beat (that was inspired by the other).

The comments in the first one are particularly of note.

(The image above was found on Chapel Hill Comics, who apparently support mini-comics.)

So Many Choices

2010-09-23T22:14:00.005-05:00

Sean Michael Robinson shines a spotlight on the Choose Your Own Adventure books. He gives a great history of the series and gives his recommendations on which ones he thinks are the best.

I remember reading these when I was a kid. The CYOA books were probably one of the reasons that I never ran in fear from reading books.

It could also be argued that they helped pave the way for adventure video games through interactive fiction.

Currently, Chooseco is reprinting most of the originals and more information about them can be found here.

If you're interested (and I know I was!), here's an analysis of the makeup of a typical Choose Your Own Adventure story.

7th Dimension Thusday

2010-09-23T21:52:00.001-05:00

Earthsearch (4 of 10) Click here to listen.
"The Solaric Empire". The crew's Astra and Darv are taken to a neighbouring moon for cross-examination.

Charles Chilton - Journey into Space (4 of 20) Click here to listen.
"The Red Planet". The mystery over Whitaker deepens, as tragedy strikes on board one of the Mars freighters.

This week's schedule.
BBC Radio 7

Countdown to APE: Renee French Interview

2010-09-23T19:13:00.004-05:00

This interview, via The Daily Crosshatch, is from 2007.

Part one.
Part two.
Part three.

Renee is another one of the special guests at this year's APE.

Free Comic: The Perhapanauts

2010-09-23T18:32:00.004-05:00

"The PERHAPANAUTS: DARK DAYS collects, for the first time, in one massive tome, the time-lost tales of the Perhapanauts from their hard-to-find FIRST BLOOD and SECOND CHANCES miniseries! See the origins and early adventures of the most mysterious, thrilling, and, at times, hilarious paranormal team in comics! This is where it all started! Also features several back-up stories and a pin-up gallery by some of the industry's finest!"

Read the first issue of Todd Dezago and Craig Rousseau's THE PERHAPANAUTS here.