Via Newsarama:
"For the first time ever, artist Alex Ross will have sketchbooks for sale at the AlexRossArt.com booth (#2419) at the San Diego Comic-Con. This sketchbook will feature never-before-seen artwork from throughout his career, as well as a brand-new front and back cover.
This will be limited to a print run of 500 copies each signed by Alex Ross himself. These will only be available at the San Diego Comic-Con July 25-29th. They will be offered on a first come-first served basis directly from the AlexRossArt.com booth only at a price of $40 each."
Wow. I am really jealous of all of you who are going to San Diego that will have a shot at this book. I love the front cover of Red Sonja. She looks powerful and graceful rather then naughty and semi-naked. The pose is pure warrior. I would love to have a print of that on my wall. Knowing how much this would sell for on eBay, I know I will never have a chance at it, but it is nice to dream.
Are any of you planning to try and pick this up in San Diego?
Wednesday, July 11, 2007
Tuesday, July 10, 2007
Meeting Lou Ferrigno
I was reading the lovely Mark Engblom's site Comic Coverage last week, basking in the joy that is "Eight Mindblowing Facts". As I enjoyed the post, I came upon fact #7 in which Mark met Lou Ferrigno. Not only did it inspire me, but it reminded me that I had also been fortunate and met the man as well.
Tonight I was regaling my workout partner Kerry with the tale and he thought that I should share my picture. Even though it isn't quite as awesome as Mark's, it is still pretty cool to have.
The funny thing is that my hubby and our good friend Brant had really wanted me to flex along with Lou because they thought I had pretty good guns. I was thinking about it pretty seriously until I saw Lou's and then I just absolutely deflated. No way in hell could I compare to that man.
Now I wish I would have done it. Sigh.
Maybe I will see Lou again some time and be brave enough to flex alongside him. It is a new goal! Thank you for the inspiration, Mark!
Any cool celeb stories to tell? I would love to hear 'em!
Tonight I was regaling my workout partner Kerry with the tale and he thought that I should share my picture. Even though it isn't quite as awesome as Mark's, it is still pretty cool to have.
The funny thing is that my hubby and our good friend Brant had really wanted me to flex along with Lou because they thought I had pretty good guns. I was thinking about it pretty seriously until I saw Lou's and then I just absolutely deflated. No way in hell could I compare to that man.
Now I wish I would have done it. Sigh.
Maybe I will see Lou again some time and be brave enough to flex alongside him. It is a new goal! Thank you for the inspiration, Mark!
Any cool celeb stories to tell? I would love to hear 'em!
Monday, July 09, 2007
New Comics for July 11
I am officially giddy- my favorite title 100 Bullets is coming out this week! If you are a mature reader and haven't been reading this title, you have got to check it out. My advice is to pick up the first trade and role that way rather then single issues.
Here is my lovely list of comics this week!
100 Bullets #84
Countdown #42
Fables #63
Gen 13 #10
Green Arrow Year One #1 (of 6)
Green Lantern #21 ??? (If Kyle is in it!)
Justice Society of America #7
Shadowpact #15
Stormwatch PHD #9
Witchblade #108
Anita Blake Vampire Hunter: First Death #1 (of 2)
Deadpool GLI Summer Fun Spectacular
New Avengers #32- if for no other reason then to find out who else is a skrull... hmmm.
Punisher War Journal #9
Ultimate X-Men #84
X-Factor #21
That is it for the week- pretty much all mainstream and pretty standard. Hopefully the books will come in on time!
Here is my lovely list of comics this week!
100 Bullets #84
Countdown #42
Fables #63
Gen 13 #10
Green Arrow Year One #1 (of 6)
Green Lantern #21 ??? (If Kyle is in it!)
Justice Society of America #7
Shadowpact #15
Stormwatch PHD #9
Witchblade #108
Anita Blake Vampire Hunter: First Death #1 (of 2)
Deadpool GLI Summer Fun Spectacular
New Avengers #32- if for no other reason then to find out who else is a skrull... hmmm.
Punisher War Journal #9
Ultimate X-Men #84
X-Factor #21
That is it for the week- pretty much all mainstream and pretty standard. Hopefully the books will come in on time!
Sunday, July 08, 2007
Anniversary Today
It is finally here- Jim and I have been married 7 years. Man, time has gone so fast, it doesn't feel like it! I took him to dinner last night and lunch today, so we were pretty low key.
Yay for comics, they are what brought us together, and continue to keep up having stuff to talk about. Hee hee! Jim and I lived through the hell that was Kyle versus Hal back in the day, so that is a pretty major achievement. I don't know how many times message board arguments with members of HEAT (Hal's Emerald Advancement/ Attack Team) versus the KEWL (Kyle's Enemies Will Lose) guys made me tense as hell and want to never read about Green Lantern again. The flame wars there were legendary!
But I digress.
It has been seven years filled with a lot of emotions and we are still here to tell the story.
I love you Honey.
Yay for comics, they are what brought us together, and continue to keep up having stuff to talk about. Hee hee! Jim and I lived through the hell that was Kyle versus Hal back in the day, so that is a pretty major achievement. I don't know how many times message board arguments with members of HEAT (Hal's Emerald Advancement/ Attack Team) versus the KEWL (Kyle's Enemies Will Lose) guys made me tense as hell and want to never read about Green Lantern again. The flame wars there were legendary!
But I digress.
It has been seven years filled with a lot of emotions and we are still here to tell the story.
I love you Honey.
Bloggers Poll on Linking: The Results!
Recently, I asked for feedback in my entry, Blogger Poll: How do you decide to link? I am in the process of updating my links and wanted to check with my fellow bloggers to see how they made their linking decision. Lucky for me, 17 respondents gave me great advice and pertinent information. I asked the following questions:
1. How do you decide who to link to? Do you have specific criteria?
2. Does the other person need to link you as well?
3. How frequently do you check the blogs you link to?
4. Would you link to someone you don't personally care for if their content was interesting?
5. Any suggestions for new links for me?
I received exceptional answers that ranged from the humorous and sarcastic to the heartfelt genuine. I like that there was a selection, and am thankful to all of you who answered the questions. I know it was time out of your day, so it is very valuable.
Question one was the mundane: “How do you decide to link to? Do you have specific criteria?” Answers were varied, and some examples include:
“It’s a bit idiosyncratic: sometimes my browsing brings me to a page that I have never seen before and I like, and I link to it. Other times if someone has linked to me, tracking back leads me to discover a page I might not have known about before, and that I’ll subsequently link to.”
“I don’t have any hard and fast rules. If I find myself checking someone’s blog frequently I will put them on my sidebar. I list other blogs that I think people who are into my site will also enjoy.”
“I list the ones I read and they’re usually the ones that update with some form of regularity.”
There were several other great comments that went along the same lines. We all want to link a site that we enjoy and visit with some frequency.
Question two: Does the other person need to link you as well? Eleven of the respondents said no that they don’t. The rest didn’t have a distinct opinion about this that was expressed. A great sentiment expressed was this:
“For a long time, there was a feeling, an unwritten rule if you will, that if someone linked you, then linking back was done as a common courtesy, if nothing else. However, I have found that there are many out there who don’t share this opinion.”
To put my two cents in, initially I always linked to whoever would link me. Then I would check back and notice that they haven’t updated for a long time, so I would want to drop them, but feel too bad to do so. Now I am faced with a blogroll that has inactive sites. I finally got brave and deleted a few, but have a few more I have held onto for sentimental reasons. The hardest was the first blogger that linked me. He didn’t blog for months, and then he re-did his blog. When it was updated I wasn’t on there anymore, so I finally felt it was okay to delete him back. Yikes. It is almost political at times.
Question 3: How frequently do you check the blogs you link to?
The answers here ranged from daily to periodically. I was astounded at the variation. It seems we all have our own schedules and adhere to them in a timely fashion of our own making.
One thing that is nagging me is this: there are about 15 blogs I check daily. The rest I check on weekends while I am playing catch up. Does this mean I should have a super blog section and a regular section? It is hard to determine this one.
Question 4: Would you link to someone you don’t personally care for if their content was interesting?
This was a humdinger. Here are some answers:
“Yes. For example, I don’t always agree with what you have to say, but you are a solid writer and, as the question alludes to, your content is interesting” (thank you, btw)
“No, because if I didn’t care for them, chances are I wouldn’t think their content was all that compelling either. It’s a real “nothing to see here” effect.”
“No. A blogger’s online personality and their content are nearly inseparable to me.”
“Yes. An interesting opinion is interesting none the less.”
“Yeah, there’s someone I don’t agree with 90% of the time but I keep them there because still find their points interesting.”
“I’ve yanked links because I no longer support the content or personality of the blogger.”
The answers to that question really made me think. I have linked and continue to link to a few people I don’t frequently agree with. The distinction I make is that I don’t have any personal feelings of ill will towards those people- we just don’t see eye-to-eye. Their content is interesting, and they make me think, so I continue to link them.
HOWEVER, there are two bloggers I will never link to for the strict reason that I find them to be distinctly unlikable human beings. It is embarrassing for me to admit this, but since I have a policy of full candor here, I figure I might as well fess up. One is a woman whose attitude is so self-serving and snarky that I would rather not have any links then link her. What is interesting about this is that when I check other people’s blogrolls, I find that if she is linked, 95% of the time I am not linked and vice versa, so evidently the feeling is mutual. Heh.
The other is a guy that is so sadistic about making mean spirited fun of other people that whenever I see any reference to him on another blog, I won’t go any further because I want nothing to do with his negativity or hating. If I ever met the person, I would have a hard time not giving him hell for his idiocy. He knows what he did, and I am sure he loves the fact that it pisses me off. I can do without that kind of hater.
That being said, I can find something positive in almost everything and everyone, so it pains me to admit that a few people have gotten my goat. It is true though. I am human and they angered me to the point of no return. Yikes. Also, sorry- didn't mean to rant!
The last question asked for suggestions for new links. Here is a list compiled from the answers of places to go check out:
http://viewsfromthelongbox.blogspot.com/
http://green-lantern-butts-forever.blogspot.com/
http://comicbycomic.blogspot.com/
http://mercurystudio.blogspot.com/
http://stumptowncomics.com/
It was also suggested for me to go check out the respondent’s side bars for new links, which I think is a fantastic idea. I really hope to find some new places to go, and I am very thankful for the input. If you think of anymore sites, let me know!
Thank you again for responding to my poll and all your help. For the responses in their entirety (that weren’t e-mailed to me) head over to my original link. So many of you had answers that made me think and helped me set my mind right. I appreciate it.
Now watch this page for updated links!
1. How do you decide who to link to? Do you have specific criteria?
2. Does the other person need to link you as well?
3. How frequently do you check the blogs you link to?
4. Would you link to someone you don't personally care for if their content was interesting?
5. Any suggestions for new links for me?
I received exceptional answers that ranged from the humorous and sarcastic to the heartfelt genuine. I like that there was a selection, and am thankful to all of you who answered the questions. I know it was time out of your day, so it is very valuable.
Question one was the mundane: “How do you decide to link to? Do you have specific criteria?” Answers were varied, and some examples include:
“It’s a bit idiosyncratic: sometimes my browsing brings me to a page that I have never seen before and I like, and I link to it. Other times if someone has linked to me, tracking back leads me to discover a page I might not have known about before, and that I’ll subsequently link to.”
“I don’t have any hard and fast rules. If I find myself checking someone’s blog frequently I will put them on my sidebar. I list other blogs that I think people who are into my site will also enjoy.”
“I list the ones I read and they’re usually the ones that update with some form of regularity.”
There were several other great comments that went along the same lines. We all want to link a site that we enjoy and visit with some frequency.
Question two: Does the other person need to link you as well? Eleven of the respondents said no that they don’t. The rest didn’t have a distinct opinion about this that was expressed. A great sentiment expressed was this:
“For a long time, there was a feeling, an unwritten rule if you will, that if someone linked you, then linking back was done as a common courtesy, if nothing else. However, I have found that there are many out there who don’t share this opinion.”
To put my two cents in, initially I always linked to whoever would link me. Then I would check back and notice that they haven’t updated for a long time, so I would want to drop them, but feel too bad to do so. Now I am faced with a blogroll that has inactive sites. I finally got brave and deleted a few, but have a few more I have held onto for sentimental reasons. The hardest was the first blogger that linked me. He didn’t blog for months, and then he re-did his blog. When it was updated I wasn’t on there anymore, so I finally felt it was okay to delete him back. Yikes. It is almost political at times.
Question 3: How frequently do you check the blogs you link to?
The answers here ranged from daily to periodically. I was astounded at the variation. It seems we all have our own schedules and adhere to them in a timely fashion of our own making.
One thing that is nagging me is this: there are about 15 blogs I check daily. The rest I check on weekends while I am playing catch up. Does this mean I should have a super blog section and a regular section? It is hard to determine this one.
Question 4: Would you link to someone you don’t personally care for if their content was interesting?
This was a humdinger. Here are some answers:
“Yes. For example, I don’t always agree with what you have to say, but you are a solid writer and, as the question alludes to, your content is interesting” (thank you, btw)
“No, because if I didn’t care for them, chances are I wouldn’t think their content was all that compelling either. It’s a real “nothing to see here” effect.”
“No. A blogger’s online personality and their content are nearly inseparable to me.”
“Yes. An interesting opinion is interesting none the less.”
“Yeah, there’s someone I don’t agree with 90% of the time but I keep them there because still find their points interesting.”
“I’ve yanked links because I no longer support the content or personality of the blogger.”
The answers to that question really made me think. I have linked and continue to link to a few people I don’t frequently agree with. The distinction I make is that I don’t have any personal feelings of ill will towards those people- we just don’t see eye-to-eye. Their content is interesting, and they make me think, so I continue to link them.
HOWEVER, there are two bloggers I will never link to for the strict reason that I find them to be distinctly unlikable human beings. It is embarrassing for me to admit this, but since I have a policy of full candor here, I figure I might as well fess up. One is a woman whose attitude is so self-serving and snarky that I would rather not have any links then link her. What is interesting about this is that when I check other people’s blogrolls, I find that if she is linked, 95% of the time I am not linked and vice versa, so evidently the feeling is mutual. Heh.
The other is a guy that is so sadistic about making mean spirited fun of other people that whenever I see any reference to him on another blog, I won’t go any further because I want nothing to do with his negativity or hating. If I ever met the person, I would have a hard time not giving him hell for his idiocy. He knows what he did, and I am sure he loves the fact that it pisses me off. I can do without that kind of hater.
That being said, I can find something positive in almost everything and everyone, so it pains me to admit that a few people have gotten my goat. It is true though. I am human and they angered me to the point of no return. Yikes. Also, sorry- didn't mean to rant!
The last question asked for suggestions for new links. Here is a list compiled from the answers of places to go check out:
http://viewsfromthelongbox.blogspot.com/
http://green-lantern-butts-forever.blogspot.com/
http://comicbycomic.blogspot.com/
http://mercurystudio.blogspot.com/
http://stumptowncomics.com/
It was also suggested for me to go check out the respondent’s side bars for new links, which I think is a fantastic idea. I really hope to find some new places to go, and I am very thankful for the input. If you think of anymore sites, let me know!
Thank you again for responding to my poll and all your help. For the responses in their entirety (that weren’t e-mailed to me) head over to my original link. So many of you had answers that made me think and helped me set my mind right. I appreciate it.
Now watch this page for updated links!
Saturday, July 07, 2007
Is This Gratuitous? Dust #1 Variant Cover
In looking for this weeks' gratuitous candidate, my hubby stumbled upon this interesting cover. I find that we are once again exploring the joys of hot chicks with guns, which is a popular theme in comics with an action slant.
The first thing I notice when looking at this cover is the expression on said woman's face as she lovingly toys with her weapon. Secondly, I am drawn to her impressive rack, which is quite perky and large at the same time. Then I notice the selling point of all selling points: nipples. Kids, Farrah Fawcett's 1970's poster didn't sell out for nothing!
This is a new book from Image Comics, and here is the information about it:
"FC JULY 5 * $3.99 It's THE DIRTY DOZEN versus robots, zombies and more! Jump into battle as the Allies and the Sino-Soviet Union join forces to fight the evil Axis; a powerful group (Germany, Japan and Africa) whose plans to dominate the world are bolstered by their amazing weapons - built using alien technology taken from a crashed space ship. Paolo Parente and mink have created a seamless blend of historical events and cutting edge Sci-Fi to bring you DUST - a groundbreaking World War II adventure! Writer mink is a feature film and MTV music video director who has worked with Snoop Dogg, Slum Village, Sheryl Crow and many more. Parente's art style was molded in the fashion world as Versace's lead illustrator, before turning his skills towards graphic novel covers, World of Warcraft art, Magic the Gathering trading cards & toy design. MTV VIDEO DIRECTOR, mink LOOKS TO CONQUER COMICS WITH THIS SURREALISTIC SCI-FI MASTERPIECE! This book will ship with a 1-for-10 variant cover by Paolo Parente. RETAILER WARNING: MAY NOT BE SUITABLE FOR ALL AGES"
Wow. Quite a resume this guy has! Are any of you planning to pick this book up? What have you heard about it?
Last but not least, is this gratuitous?
The first thing I notice when looking at this cover is the expression on said woman's face as she lovingly toys with her weapon. Secondly, I am drawn to her impressive rack, which is quite perky and large at the same time. Then I notice the selling point of all selling points: nipples. Kids, Farrah Fawcett's 1970's poster didn't sell out for nothing!
This is a new book from Image Comics, and here is the information about it:
"FC JULY 5 * $3.99 It's THE DIRTY DOZEN versus robots, zombies and more! Jump into battle as the Allies and the Sino-Soviet Union join forces to fight the evil Axis; a powerful group (Germany, Japan and Africa) whose plans to dominate the world are bolstered by their amazing weapons - built using alien technology taken from a crashed space ship. Paolo Parente and mink have created a seamless blend of historical events and cutting edge Sci-Fi to bring you DUST - a groundbreaking World War II adventure! Writer mink is a feature film and MTV music video director who has worked with Snoop Dogg, Slum Village, Sheryl Crow and many more. Parente's art style was molded in the fashion world as Versace's lead illustrator, before turning his skills towards graphic novel covers, World of Warcraft art, Magic the Gathering trading cards & toy design. MTV VIDEO DIRECTOR, mink LOOKS TO CONQUER COMICS WITH THIS SURREALISTIC SCI-FI MASTERPIECE! This book will ship with a 1-for-10 variant cover by Paolo Parente. RETAILER WARNING: MAY NOT BE SUITABLE FOR ALL AGES"
Wow. Quite a resume this guy has! Are any of you planning to pick this book up? What have you heard about it?
Last but not least, is this gratuitous?
Thursday, July 05, 2007
Random Thoughts and Musings
Good intentions have not given my ideas fruition this week. Between my neighbors shooting off fireworks half the night last night and (not bad) developments in my life, I am way behind on what I wanted to do here.
First off, a rant: in my city, fireworks are illegal without a specified permit. Does that stop anyone? Nope. My damn neighbors were out shooting off fireworks until after 2 a.m. this morning. Assholes!!! I have to get up before 6 a.m. to go to work. Jim tried to find out who was doing it so we could ask them to stop, but without success. As a result, I am flat worn out. I went and lifted weights for over two hours tonight and then had to go to the grocery store, so as a consequence, I have to delay the blogger poll results until Saturday.
Because of not bad reasons, I am going to be out of town tomorrow night and will get back Saturday afternoon. Regular scheduled blogging should resume then. There isn't an emergency- in fact it is an opportunity, so no biggie. It just means I have to leave the hubby home alone. (Sad face).
The topper is that it is in the triple digits temperature wise and all we have to keep us cool is a window air conditioner and a portable swamp cooler. As a result, it is WARM in the house. The weatherman says it isn't going to get cooler anytime soon, so we might as well get used to it.
In excellent news, the lovely Lisa at Sequentially Speaking, is putting her P.O.W.E.R. to good use. Go check out her blog for a fantastic list of "independent" books done by women creators. It is wonderful! I am deferring to her on this one as I couldn't do it better. Also, if you haven't joined P.O.W.E.R. in Comics, head over and do so! It is a great idea and Lisa is making things happen.
In good news, our comics were here on time! Yay! The bad news is that I haven't even looked at them and probably won't have a chance until I get back. Since Sunday is Jim and my 7th wedding anniversary, we will probably try and do something nice. Time flies!
Lastly, my "is this gratuitous" feature will happen, but it is delayed a few days as well. Thank you for humoring me, and take care! If you are experiencing the heatwave along with me, you have my sympathy!
First off, a rant: in my city, fireworks are illegal without a specified permit. Does that stop anyone? Nope. My damn neighbors were out shooting off fireworks until after 2 a.m. this morning. Assholes!!! I have to get up before 6 a.m. to go to work. Jim tried to find out who was doing it so we could ask them to stop, but without success. As a result, I am flat worn out. I went and lifted weights for over two hours tonight and then had to go to the grocery store, so as a consequence, I have to delay the blogger poll results until Saturday.
Because of not bad reasons, I am going to be out of town tomorrow night and will get back Saturday afternoon. Regular scheduled blogging should resume then. There isn't an emergency- in fact it is an opportunity, so no biggie. It just means I have to leave the hubby home alone. (Sad face).
The topper is that it is in the triple digits temperature wise and all we have to keep us cool is a window air conditioner and a portable swamp cooler. As a result, it is WARM in the house. The weatherman says it isn't going to get cooler anytime soon, so we might as well get used to it.
In excellent news, the lovely Lisa at Sequentially Speaking, is putting her P.O.W.E.R. to good use. Go check out her blog for a fantastic list of "independent" books done by women creators. It is wonderful! I am deferring to her on this one as I couldn't do it better. Also, if you haven't joined P.O.W.E.R. in Comics, head over and do so! It is a great idea and Lisa is making things happen.
In good news, our comics were here on time! Yay! The bad news is that I haven't even looked at them and probably won't have a chance until I get back. Since Sunday is Jim and my 7th wedding anniversary, we will probably try and do something nice. Time flies!
Lastly, my "is this gratuitous" feature will happen, but it is delayed a few days as well. Thank you for humoring me, and take care! If you are experiencing the heatwave along with me, you have my sympathy!
Wednesday, July 04, 2007
Happy Fourth of July!
Hopefully today is a nice day for all of you, and there has been time to spend it with your loved ones. Here at Comics Fairplay we enjoyed the luxury of sleeping in and relaxing. We did do some work, but not a lot.
This afternoon we are hoping to go see Live Free or Die Hard, so hopefully that will be a go. I am pretty sure that Transformers will be the movie to see, so maybe we can slip under the radar there. We are going to wait to go see it until next week at the earliest.
Have a glorious day today. Reflect on the men and women that made this country what it is. Enjoy the freedoms we have gained. Say a prayer for our servicemen and women, as well.
Happy 4th of July to all of you Americans, and Happy Wednesday to the rest of you all! Hopefully it is a good one!
This afternoon we are hoping to go see Live Free or Die Hard, so hopefully that will be a go. I am pretty sure that Transformers will be the movie to see, so maybe we can slip under the radar there. We are going to wait to go see it until next week at the earliest.
Have a glorious day today. Reflect on the men and women that made this country what it is. Enjoy the freedoms we have gained. Say a prayer for our servicemen and women, as well.
Happy 4th of July to all of you Americans, and Happy Wednesday to the rest of you all! Hopefully it is a good one!
Tuesday, July 03, 2007
Liberty and Justice... For None? The DC Teaser!
Over at Newsarama, the latest teaser for Countdown has been posted. Evidently now it is evil's turn to take center stage. With meticulously drawn art by Ethan Van Sciver, the picture has so much detail that it is hard to take it all in.
The first thing that catches my eye is the Kingdom Come Superman. What is that on his hand? Is it the symbol of the Atom? Is it Captain Atom's insignia? I am not sure.
I was also fascinated to see the Martian Manhunter and Catwoman in this picture. Having Joker whispering in her ear, it really makes me wonder what could happen to see him at her side.
What is Luthor so upset about? Is it because there are more Supermen then there are Luthors in the frame? Is it because someone ate his eggo? What do you think?
It is pretty official that Mary Marvel has gone bad. She is surrounded by Granny and has an ominous expression on her face. The last piece of the puzzle is Trickster, Penguin, and Desaad looking a bit amused and confused.
Lastly, what about the scraps around the ground and the Darkseid looking statue? It must mean that there is a hell of a fight in the works.
Now if it will only get here. Enough build up already. I am ready for a cohesive, fascinating story to come out of all this bland branding!
What is your take?
Monday, July 02, 2007
Forgot to Mention... Blogger Poll
Due to last weekend's hectic nature, I am extending my blogger poll by two more days! Please comment or send me an e-mail before Wednesday afternoon, and I will have the results then.
Check out my original post: Blogger Poll: How Do you Decide Who to Link? and help me out!
Thank you!!
Check out my original post: Blogger Poll: How Do you Decide Who to Link? and help me out!
Thank you!!
New Comics for July 5
Happy July! It is time for hot weather and lots of celebration at the Meeley house. Jim and I have our anniversary on Sunday, then his brother's birthday, several of my cousins and my aunt have birthdays, and then it is my birthday. Whew! We blow our budget on cards and gifts this month to be sure.
We are gearing up for July 4. More then likely we will bypass fireworks so we can go see either Transformers of Live Free or Die Hard. We will have to see how the lines look. Yummy- popcorn!
Comics-wise it is another hefty week. I don't know what my wallet is going to do, other then scream in pain. Bear with me as I try and list it all!
All Star Superman #8
American Virgin #16
Black Canary #1 (of 4)
Countdown #43
Detective Comics #834
Nightwing #134
Outsiders #49
Supergirl #19
Welcome to Tranquility #8
Y The Last Man #57
Dynamo 5 #5
Ms Marvel #17
New Warriors #2
Punisher #49- pictured
Punisher Presents Barracuda Max #5 (0f 5)
Uncanny X-Men #488
Devi #12
To add to the mix, the "Women of the DCU" Batgirl bust is coming out this week. I am fearful I ordered it and don't know what to do! Also, "Girls and Goddesses Pin Up Art of Joseph Michael Linsner" hits stores. Crap, what am I going to do?
At least I can be in denial for a couple of days and celebrate the 4th in style!
Have a wonderful week!
We are gearing up for July 4. More then likely we will bypass fireworks so we can go see either Transformers of Live Free or Die Hard. We will have to see how the lines look. Yummy- popcorn!
Comics-wise it is another hefty week. I don't know what my wallet is going to do, other then scream in pain. Bear with me as I try and list it all!
All Star Superman #8
American Virgin #16
Black Canary #1 (of 4)
Countdown #43
Detective Comics #834
Nightwing #134
Outsiders #49
Supergirl #19
Welcome to Tranquility #8
Y The Last Man #57
Dynamo 5 #5
Ms Marvel #17
New Warriors #2
Punisher #49- pictured
Punisher Presents Barracuda Max #5 (0f 5)
Uncanny X-Men #488
Devi #12
To add to the mix, the "Women of the DCU" Batgirl bust is coming out this week. I am fearful I ordered it and don't know what to do! Also, "Girls and Goddesses Pin Up Art of Joseph Michael Linsner" hits stores. Crap, what am I going to do?
At least I can be in denial for a couple of days and celebrate the 4th in style!
Have a wonderful week!
Sunday, July 01, 2007
Quick Take Reviews for July 1: The Females in Charge Edition
This week it is my distinct pleasure to present a group of quick take revews that are devoted to comics starring a female character. I tried to be as forthright as possible, and unfortunately, that has led to some not-very-flattering reviews along with some thumbs-up reviews. I wanted to be fair, so as I reviewed each book I tried to find both the negative and positive. I start out with my favorite character and end with a new star.
Let's get started, shall we?
Wonder Woman #10: I haven’t commented much on Jodi Picoult’s run on Wonder Woman because I wanted to wait until it was all in the can to make a decision. As a fan of Picoult’s books, I sit here today sorely disappointed with her work here. I can hardly stand it! Picoult is an amazing writer of depth and knowledge. To see her resort to buzzwords and contrived dialogue here kills me. Maybe part of the problem is the “Amazons Attack” aspect of things. If left to her plot devices, and not made to throw Diana into battle, maybe things would have been different. As it stands now, the book just didn’t work for me. As much as I had been anticipating Diana’s big moment with her mother, I just can’t get the over the bitter taste left in my mouth. The reason this book isn’t getting an “F” is because of the decent art. Grade: D.
Amazons Attack #3 (of 6): I am not too thrilled with Amazons Attack either. As the main book involved, it feels more cohesive, and I appreciate Will Pfeifer and Pete Wood’s synergy, but the story itself is so damn contrived. There’s that word again. Why is this event happening now and what is the big payoff? That is the question I am waiting to have answered. In for a penny, in for a pound, I will pick up the next issue and see where it takes me. Grade: C.
Teen Titans #48: Wonder Girl and Supergirl are pissed off super teen chicks with an axe to grind. Oh God, I can’t stand it! Cassie wants to get her mom out of a prison camp and Supergirl is along for the ride. Fighting fiercely against the Titans and the army, things get really out of hand. This leads to an ill fated meeting with Hyppolyta that doesn’t bode well for mankind. I am sure things are going to get much worse before they get better, and I am going to take this trip to see where it goes. I am still up in the air about writer Adam Beechen, but liked artist Al Barronuevo and inker Bit’s work. Grade: C.
Witchblade #107: After trying to absorb the entire Amazons Attack story, Witchblade felt like cool lemonade on a hot day. Part two of a two part story finds new bearer Dani taking the gauntlet in a more hostile, more precise direction. She is more aggressive and less thoughtful then Sara Pezzini, and that gives a fascinating twist to the weapon she wields. Also, a question that has been plaguing me is answered, setting things up nicely for the First Born saga. I appreciated Ron Marz’ story and artist Stjepan Sejic’s work very much. Grade: B.
She-Hulk Vol. 2 #19: Jen is back for some interaction with her law office, and it is about time. Making for a nice interlude in the World War Hulk saga, Jen finds herself running up against Mallory and having a sweet reunion with a friend. The fact that the Leader is in the mix just adds to the hijinks. I really enjoyed this issue, and am going to miss Dan Slott on the book. The only reason I am not inconsolable is because Peter David is taking over. Grade: B+.
Legion of Monsters: Satana #1: after putting the cover up in the “Is this gratuitous” section of my blog, I felt it only fair to check out the book underneath. As is typical of a cover like this, the art inside was completely different. Satana was still evil but she didn’t look like a Pam Anderson clone anymore, so I was appreciative of that. I quite enjoyed the story, which had a clever, evil twist. It was a nice surprise after not being too thrilled with her lack of ribcage on the cover. Grade: C+.
Fallen Angel #17: This was a book I usually love, but the flip book aspect of it turned me off. I am a fan of both Shi and Fallen Angel so I figured it would be awesome. Instead it was a bit confusing. I am really hoping that after all the set up here that next issue will be full of action and ass kicking. I trust ya, Peter. Grade: B-.
Snakewoman: Tales of the Snake Charmer #1: I am not quite sure why Snakewoman has been retitled and started over at number one, but at this point I am not going to question it. Snakewoman remains my favorite Virgin title, and I am mesmerized by the turn of events here. Jessica Peterson is in hiding, and as she races away from destiny, it catches up with her again. Also, a compelling new storyline and character are introduced, and I am eager to see where it takes her. I am really enjoying this book. Grade: A.
That's it for today. Do you agree? Any suggestions?
Let's get started, shall we?
Wonder Woman #10: I haven’t commented much on Jodi Picoult’s run on Wonder Woman because I wanted to wait until it was all in the can to make a decision. As a fan of Picoult’s books, I sit here today sorely disappointed with her work here. I can hardly stand it! Picoult is an amazing writer of depth and knowledge. To see her resort to buzzwords and contrived dialogue here kills me. Maybe part of the problem is the “Amazons Attack” aspect of things. If left to her plot devices, and not made to throw Diana into battle, maybe things would have been different. As it stands now, the book just didn’t work for me. As much as I had been anticipating Diana’s big moment with her mother, I just can’t get the over the bitter taste left in my mouth. The reason this book isn’t getting an “F” is because of the decent art. Grade: D.
Amazons Attack #3 (of 6): I am not too thrilled with Amazons Attack either. As the main book involved, it feels more cohesive, and I appreciate Will Pfeifer and Pete Wood’s synergy, but the story itself is so damn contrived. There’s that word again. Why is this event happening now and what is the big payoff? That is the question I am waiting to have answered. In for a penny, in for a pound, I will pick up the next issue and see where it takes me. Grade: C.
Teen Titans #48: Wonder Girl and Supergirl are pissed off super teen chicks with an axe to grind. Oh God, I can’t stand it! Cassie wants to get her mom out of a prison camp and Supergirl is along for the ride. Fighting fiercely against the Titans and the army, things get really out of hand. This leads to an ill fated meeting with Hyppolyta that doesn’t bode well for mankind. I am sure things are going to get much worse before they get better, and I am going to take this trip to see where it goes. I am still up in the air about writer Adam Beechen, but liked artist Al Barronuevo and inker Bit’s work. Grade: C.
Witchblade #107: After trying to absorb the entire Amazons Attack story, Witchblade felt like cool lemonade on a hot day. Part two of a two part story finds new bearer Dani taking the gauntlet in a more hostile, more precise direction. She is more aggressive and less thoughtful then Sara Pezzini, and that gives a fascinating twist to the weapon she wields. Also, a question that has been plaguing me is answered, setting things up nicely for the First Born saga. I appreciated Ron Marz’ story and artist Stjepan Sejic’s work very much. Grade: B.
She-Hulk Vol. 2 #19: Jen is back for some interaction with her law office, and it is about time. Making for a nice interlude in the World War Hulk saga, Jen finds herself running up against Mallory and having a sweet reunion with a friend. The fact that the Leader is in the mix just adds to the hijinks. I really enjoyed this issue, and am going to miss Dan Slott on the book. The only reason I am not inconsolable is because Peter David is taking over. Grade: B+.
Legion of Monsters: Satana #1: after putting the cover up in the “Is this gratuitous” section of my blog, I felt it only fair to check out the book underneath. As is typical of a cover like this, the art inside was completely different. Satana was still evil but she didn’t look like a Pam Anderson clone anymore, so I was appreciative of that. I quite enjoyed the story, which had a clever, evil twist. It was a nice surprise after not being too thrilled with her lack of ribcage on the cover. Grade: C+.
Fallen Angel #17: This was a book I usually love, but the flip book aspect of it turned me off. I am a fan of both Shi and Fallen Angel so I figured it would be awesome. Instead it was a bit confusing. I am really hoping that after all the set up here that next issue will be full of action and ass kicking. I trust ya, Peter. Grade: B-.
Snakewoman: Tales of the Snake Charmer #1: I am not quite sure why Snakewoman has been retitled and started over at number one, but at this point I am not going to question it. Snakewoman remains my favorite Virgin title, and I am mesmerized by the turn of events here. Jessica Peterson is in hiding, and as she races away from destiny, it catches up with her again. Also, a compelling new storyline and character are introduced, and I am eager to see where it takes her. I am really enjoying this book. Grade: A.
That's it for today. Do you agree? Any suggestions?
Saturday, June 30, 2007
How This Blog Rates...
Well, I went over to Mingle2 to determine what my blog was rated, and here is the result:
Darn. Here I thought I was G rated. Hee hee!
This rating was determined based on the presence of the following words:
death (3x) ass (2x) pissed (1x)
Mingle2 - Online Dating
Darn. Here I thought I was G rated. Hee hee!
This rating was determined based on the presence of the following words:
death (3x) ass (2x) pissed (1x)
Friday, June 29, 2007
is This Gratuitous?: The Ride: Die Valkyrie #2 Hamner Cover
Well after last week's cover, I know better then to pick on the devil's daughter. She is a little too subjective, and I totally get that.
So...
For this week's cover, I have selected The Ride: Die Valkyrie #2 with cover by Cully Hamner. The thing that catches my eye that might be a bit gratuitous about it is, well, the crotch area. Girlfriend is doing one better then Paris and Britney by the sheer fact that she is wearing panties, so I give her that.
BUT...
She is showing lots of thigh and crotch type interaction with the readers. Plus she is being a bit kinky and hugging a scarecrow.
Hmmmm... nice. What does she know that I don't?
So gentle reader, I am at your mercy on this one.
Is this gratuitous?
So...
For this week's cover, I have selected The Ride: Die Valkyrie #2 with cover by Cully Hamner. The thing that catches my eye that might be a bit gratuitous about it is, well, the crotch area. Girlfriend is doing one better then Paris and Britney by the sheer fact that she is wearing panties, so I give her that.
BUT...
She is showing lots of thigh and crotch type interaction with the readers. Plus she is being a bit kinky and hugging a scarecrow.
Hmmmm... nice. What does she know that I don't?
So gentle reader, I am at your mercy on this one.
Is this gratuitous?
Thursday, June 28, 2007
The Eight Questions of Blazing Death Courtesy of Vaklam!!
My lovely friend Vaklam from Noetic Concordance has tagged me on this interesting meme. Here is a repeat of his rules:
"Here are the rules:
- Each player starts with eight random facts about themselves.
- Those who are tagged need to write their own blog about their eight facts and post these rules.
- At the end of the post, choose some people to get tagged and list their names."
Nicely done, Vaklam! Here is my list!
1. I am left handed, and the way I write always freaks people out. A lady at my office handed me some checks to sign and I turned them almost upside down to sign them. She looked at me oddly for a moment and said “Wow,that was different.”
2. I can name 90% of the videos on Metal Mania by the first five notes. I was single during most of my formative head banging years, so I watched Head Banger’s Ball on many a Saturday night. Now I can name most any song or video before the singer starts singing.
3. I met my husband in an AOL DC Comic book Wonder Woman chat room hosted by John Byrne. True story.
4. I can’t go to bed if there are dirty dishes in the sink. I have to wash them or I just can’t relax. Weird.
5. I can leg press 500 pounds and squat 270 pounds. I have freakishly strong legs, and I wish my upper body would catch up so I didn’t feel so disproportionate.
6. My favorite food is pizza. I can eat it any time. I especially love it with either shrimp or Canadian bacon and pineapple. A close second is steak. I am a definite carnivore.
7. I am not a morning person but have forced myself to become adjusted to it. If I don’t have to get up, I can sleep until noon.
8. Beer is my absolute favorite alcoholic beverage. It has a lot of calories so I don’t drink it very often, but there is nothing better then an ice cold beer on a hot day to make things festive!
So there ya go! Some strange but true random facts!
Redhead Fangirl, Lisa, Swinebread, Nick, Mark, and Eaglewing: If you get the chance, and you don't feel bombarded or haven't already been asked, I would love to see your responses! John, you are already very busy, so don't feel compelled, but I would like to see yours as well!
"Here are the rules:
- Each player starts with eight random facts about themselves.
- Those who are tagged need to write their own blog about their eight facts and post these rules.
- At the end of the post, choose some people to get tagged and list their names."
Nicely done, Vaklam! Here is my list!
1. I am left handed, and the way I write always freaks people out. A lady at my office handed me some checks to sign and I turned them almost upside down to sign them. She looked at me oddly for a moment and said “Wow,that was different.”
2. I can name 90% of the videos on Metal Mania by the first five notes. I was single during most of my formative head banging years, so I watched Head Banger’s Ball on many a Saturday night. Now I can name most any song or video before the singer starts singing.
3. I met my husband in an AOL DC Comic book Wonder Woman chat room hosted by John Byrne. True story.
4. I can’t go to bed if there are dirty dishes in the sink. I have to wash them or I just can’t relax. Weird.
5. I can leg press 500 pounds and squat 270 pounds. I have freakishly strong legs, and I wish my upper body would catch up so I didn’t feel so disproportionate.
6. My favorite food is pizza. I can eat it any time. I especially love it with either shrimp or Canadian bacon and pineapple. A close second is steak. I am a definite carnivore.
7. I am not a morning person but have forced myself to become adjusted to it. If I don’t have to get up, I can sleep until noon.
8. Beer is my absolute favorite alcoholic beverage. It has a lot of calories so I don’t drink it very often, but there is nothing better then an ice cold beer on a hot day to make things festive!
So there ya go! Some strange but true random facts!
Redhead Fangirl, Lisa, Swinebread, Nick, Mark, and Eaglewing: If you get the chance, and you don't feel bombarded or haven't already been asked, I would love to see your responses! John, you are already very busy, so don't feel compelled, but I would like to see yours as well!
Wednesday, June 27, 2007
Pet Peeve of the Day! Comic Covers Versus Interiors
I may be in the minority on this, but I really hate it when I pick up a comic based on the cover and the interiors and the story look nothing like it. There were a couple of books today that I has special ordered from my retailer. When I sat down to look at them, they had very stylized covers. Then I opened the book and the interior was completely different. The art was more "sketchy" looking and had a ton of darker panels, while the cover was sunshine and light. It really threw me for a loop, and it made me not want to read the issue.
Once I get past this, I am usually alright. One of my small exceptions to the rule on this is Catwoman, which features Adam Hughes covers and David Lopez interiors. I think it is because I know what to expect, so it doesn't make me upset. I wouldn't mind though if Lopez did the covers, because I enjoy his work.
I sometimes also think that the interior artists should be allowed to get the cover dollars after doing a great job on the inside. It helps make a person a "star" and gets their work out there. My exception to the rule is on variant covers. I think that in this case, the interior artist should get one and a featured artist should get another. I am okay with that. Though I am not a big fan of variants, I at least would like to see the interior artist get a shot.
My other pet peeve is when the cover has nothing to do with the story. There are some silver age books that were especially bad, and though they make me laugh today, I remember buying comics on the newstand in a hurry because my mom was grocery shopping and then getting home and being disapointed. Those were the days. It doesn't happen as much now, since many covers are more "posed" then story driven, making it almost impossible to rely on the cover to tell the story.
Like I said, I am probably in the minority, but I really enjoy an issue that features the same art team from cover to cover. There are exceptions to the rule, but for the most part, it is what I prefer.
What do you like? Do you have a preference?
Once I get past this, I am usually alright. One of my small exceptions to the rule on this is Catwoman, which features Adam Hughes covers and David Lopez interiors. I think it is because I know what to expect, so it doesn't make me upset. I wouldn't mind though if Lopez did the covers, because I enjoy his work.
I sometimes also think that the interior artists should be allowed to get the cover dollars after doing a great job on the inside. It helps make a person a "star" and gets their work out there. My exception to the rule is on variant covers. I think that in this case, the interior artist should get one and a featured artist should get another. I am okay with that. Though I am not a big fan of variants, I at least would like to see the interior artist get a shot.
My other pet peeve is when the cover has nothing to do with the story. There are some silver age books that were especially bad, and though they make me laugh today, I remember buying comics on the newstand in a hurry because my mom was grocery shopping and then getting home and being disapointed. Those were the days. It doesn't happen as much now, since many covers are more "posed" then story driven, making it almost impossible to rely on the cover to tell the story.
Like I said, I am probably in the minority, but I really enjoy an issue that features the same art team from cover to cover. There are exceptions to the rule, but for the most part, it is what I prefer.
What do you like? Do you have a preference?
Tuesday, June 26, 2007
Almost Forgot About The Boys!
I just realized that I missed two titles on my week's pull list. Firstly , I missed The Boys #8, shipping from Dynamite Entertainment. Then I missed Snakewoman: Tales of the Snake Charmer #1 from Virgin. I can't believe I did that! So as to not miss giving a shout out to two books I really enjoy, I wanted to give a heads up about those two titles shipping this week!
Thank you so much for the great participation in the linking poll! I am humbled and awed. It means a great deal to me to have such fantastic feedback as I prepare to make some changes to my sidebar.
That is it for tonight! I ran really late weight training, so I am just now home. It made for a long day!
Take care and Happy Wednesday!
Thank you so much for the great participation in the linking poll! I am humbled and awed. It means a great deal to me to have such fantastic feedback as I prepare to make some changes to my sidebar.
That is it for tonight! I ran really late weight training, so I am just now home. It made for a long day!
Take care and Happy Wednesday!
Monday, June 25, 2007
Blogger Poll: How Do You Decide Who to Link?
I have been working on my sidebar the last couple of days, removing blogs that are not current, or that I just don't really check out anymore and adding new ones that I enjoy. I have been having a hard time with this because I like to go to so many blogs, but I don't want to have so many links that no one checks out any of them. It is a conundrum to be sure.
So here are my questions to all you bloggers and site owners out there:
1. How do you decide who to link to? Do you have specific criteria?
2. Does the other person need to link you as well?
3. How frequently do you check the blogs you link to?
4. Would you link to someone you don't personally care for if their content was interesting?
5. Any suggestions for new links for me?
Please, please! If you have a spare moment, please respond here as a comment or e-mail me at heididc@aol.com by Saturday, June 30. Thank you so much!
So here are my questions to all you bloggers and site owners out there:
1. How do you decide who to link to? Do you have specific criteria?
2. Does the other person need to link you as well?
3. How frequently do you check the blogs you link to?
4. Would you link to someone you don't personally care for if their content was interesting?
5. Any suggestions for new links for me?
Please, please! If you have a spare moment, please respond here as a comment or e-mail me at heididc@aol.com by Saturday, June 30. Thank you so much!
New Comics for June 27
It is that time of the week again where Diamond publishes it's list of comics expected for that Wednesday. Since I don't expect my books in a timely manner right now, let's just say that these are the new books for the week, question mark!! Special thanks to Lisa though for all her help! Our retailer was eager to try the suggestions you gave, so we will keep you posted!
Here is my list for the week:
Amazons Attack #3 (of 6)
Blue Beetle #16
Countdown #44
Green Lantern Sinestro Corps Special #1
JSA Classified #27- on the chopping block for me.
Teen TItans #48
Wonder Woman #10
Invincible #43
Wtichblade #107
Black Panther #42
Daredevil #98
Fantastic Four #547- check out the excellent Dwaine McDuffie scripting!
Immortal Iron Fist #6
She-Hulk 2 #19
Silent War #6 (of 6)
Thunderbolts #115
Ultimate X-Men #83
Wolverine Origins #15
X-Factor #20
X-Men #200
Fallen Angel #17
Red Sonja #23 - pictured!
That's the list. Lots of book starring women, which is pretty cool. Some are more bad girl then others, but all are unique in their appeal. I can't wait to do my reviews this weekend- I am hoping for an all ladies review fiesta!
Have a wonderful evening!
Here is my list for the week:
Amazons Attack #3 (of 6)
Blue Beetle #16
Countdown #44
Green Lantern Sinestro Corps Special #1
JSA Classified #27- on the chopping block for me.
Teen TItans #48
Wonder Woman #10
Invincible #43
Wtichblade #107
Black Panther #42
Daredevil #98
Fantastic Four #547- check out the excellent Dwaine McDuffie scripting!
Immortal Iron Fist #6
She-Hulk 2 #19
Silent War #6 (of 6)
Thunderbolts #115
Ultimate X-Men #83
Wolverine Origins #15
X-Factor #20
X-Men #200
Fallen Angel #17
Red Sonja #23 - pictured!
That's the list. Lots of book starring women, which is pretty cool. Some are more bad girl then others, but all are unique in their appeal. I can't wait to do my reviews this weekend- I am hoping for an all ladies review fiesta!
Have a wonderful evening!
Sunday, June 24, 2007
Still a Wonder Woman: Lynda Carter at 55!
Well, I might as well fess up. I was over at TMZ.com the other day after following a link about a gossip story. Yep, it's true. That is the bad news.
The good news is that I stumbled upon this picture of Lynda Carter at lunch looking FANTASTIC. No way does she look 55. She is still incredibly gorgeous, and I bow to her. Wonder Woman was my hero back when the television show came out, and seeing how taking care of yourself can help later in life has never been shown better.
If the Wonder Woman movie ever gets made, here is our Hyppolyta.
I feel like I am 12 years old again.
The good news is that I stumbled upon this picture of Lynda Carter at lunch looking FANTASTIC. No way does she look 55. She is still incredibly gorgeous, and I bow to her. Wonder Woman was my hero back when the television show came out, and seeing how taking care of yourself can help later in life has never been shown better.
If the Wonder Woman movie ever gets made, here is our Hyppolyta.
I feel like I am 12 years old again.
Quick Take Reviews for June 24
Here is a look at some of the books that came out this week. Some impressed me while others were lukewarm to cold. It is all in the eye of the beholder!
X-Men: Endangered Species One-Shot: This special by Mike Carey, Scot Eaton, and John Dell signals the next major change going for the mutant population of the Marvel universe. Gathered at a funeral and realizing that their population is decreasing towards extinction, the different sects of mutants react in their own way. There are sources out there that would be only too happy to have the mutants wiped off the face of the earth, and somehow the X-Men must stop this. With special guest appearances by the who’s-who of mutantdom, this is obviously setting up the next year of events. Interestingly, the chapters of this story will be back up stories in four Marvel titles- X-Men, Uncanny X-Men, X-Factor, and New X-Men so readers wanting to follow this tale will need to be purchasing all those titles. Marketing ploy or sheer genius? I guess we will know four months from now. I have mixed feelings about this book, but am willing to see what happens in the next few chapters before making up my mind. Grade: C.
Amazing Spider-Man #541: No offense, but I am really tired of J. Michael Stracsynski on this title. Never has a new book needed new blood so badly. I guess I am still a bit sour about finding out that Gwen Stacy was a bit slutty with Norman Osborne, but all I see is the pathos of the character. Can’t he ever have a bit of a better day, filled with those endearingly awkward moments that have made me love Peter Parker’s character so much? No, because he has outed himself in Civil War and some dickhead shot Aunt May. Now Spider-Man has to be badass. This issue follows in that vein as Spidey tries to get to the bottom of who has harmed his family. It kinda made me hope that he is really a skrull, you know? Grade: D.
Army@Love #4: This Vertigo book is growing on me. At first read of issue one, I was really unimpressed. Then I sat down and read issues 1, 2, and 3 at one sitting and it all clicked. Pathos, drama, action, sex, and thrills with a crazy dash of secrecy add up to make this a killer ride. Soldiers who sign up for the adrenaline rush? God knows it could happen. Rick Veitch and Gary Erskine are a cohesive unit, and their work here is excellent. Adult readers, give it a try! Grade: B+.
Captain America #27: I don’t know when it happened but somehow I have fallen a bit in love with the Winter Soldier. Yep, I have a Bucky crush. Ed Brubaker and the insanely fantastic art team of Steve Epting, Mike Perkins, and Frank D’Armata have me under their spell. Captain America may have died, but the book lives on in the guise of Bucky, Sharon, and the Falcon. Their search for answers and the guilt that Cap’s death carries have created a dramatic atmosphere that Brubaker has deftly built on. I am glued to this book and have no intentions of going anywhere as long as this creative team stays put. Grade: A.
Checkmate #15: Another chapter of that crazy crossover with the Outsiders finds the Black Queen and Boomerang being tortured while secrets begin to leak all over the place. I have really come to love the “court system” of Kings, Queens, Bishops, and Knights and the complicated web of intrigue it weaves. I also never knew that Egg Fu could be so evil. I may have nightmares tonight. The last page of this book is one of those “holy crap” moments that I love. The crossover ends with Outsiders #49. Grade: B.
X-Men: Endangered Species One-Shot: This special by Mike Carey, Scot Eaton, and John Dell signals the next major change going for the mutant population of the Marvel universe. Gathered at a funeral and realizing that their population is decreasing towards extinction, the different sects of mutants react in their own way. There are sources out there that would be only too happy to have the mutants wiped off the face of the earth, and somehow the X-Men must stop this. With special guest appearances by the who’s-who of mutantdom, this is obviously setting up the next year of events. Interestingly, the chapters of this story will be back up stories in four Marvel titles- X-Men, Uncanny X-Men, X-Factor, and New X-Men so readers wanting to follow this tale will need to be purchasing all those titles. Marketing ploy or sheer genius? I guess we will know four months from now. I have mixed feelings about this book, but am willing to see what happens in the next few chapters before making up my mind. Grade: C.
Amazing Spider-Man #541: No offense, but I am really tired of J. Michael Stracsynski on this title. Never has a new book needed new blood so badly. I guess I am still a bit sour about finding out that Gwen Stacy was a bit slutty with Norman Osborne, but all I see is the pathos of the character. Can’t he ever have a bit of a better day, filled with those endearingly awkward moments that have made me love Peter Parker’s character so much? No, because he has outed himself in Civil War and some dickhead shot Aunt May. Now Spider-Man has to be badass. This issue follows in that vein as Spidey tries to get to the bottom of who has harmed his family. It kinda made me hope that he is really a skrull, you know? Grade: D.
Army@Love #4: This Vertigo book is growing on me. At first read of issue one, I was really unimpressed. Then I sat down and read issues 1, 2, and 3 at one sitting and it all clicked. Pathos, drama, action, sex, and thrills with a crazy dash of secrecy add up to make this a killer ride. Soldiers who sign up for the adrenaline rush? God knows it could happen. Rick Veitch and Gary Erskine are a cohesive unit, and their work here is excellent. Adult readers, give it a try! Grade: B+.
Captain America #27: I don’t know when it happened but somehow I have fallen a bit in love with the Winter Soldier. Yep, I have a Bucky crush. Ed Brubaker and the insanely fantastic art team of Steve Epting, Mike Perkins, and Frank D’Armata have me under their spell. Captain America may have died, but the book lives on in the guise of Bucky, Sharon, and the Falcon. Their search for answers and the guilt that Cap’s death carries have created a dramatic atmosphere that Brubaker has deftly built on. I am glued to this book and have no intentions of going anywhere as long as this creative team stays put. Grade: A.
Checkmate #15: Another chapter of that crazy crossover with the Outsiders finds the Black Queen and Boomerang being tortured while secrets begin to leak all over the place. I have really come to love the “court system” of Kings, Queens, Bishops, and Knights and the complicated web of intrigue it weaves. I also never knew that Egg Fu could be so evil. I may have nightmares tonight. The last page of this book is one of those “holy crap” moments that I love. The crossover ends with Outsiders #49. Grade: B.
Saturday, June 23, 2007
Random Thoughts and A Sense of Wonderment
Today was a gorgeous day at Casa Meeley so most of it was spent doing errands, being out and about, or just hitting the gym for some iron pumping. When I got home tonight, I checked out my "Is This Gratuitous" post and was really excited about the responses I got. Then I checked my links and found that two other sites had made comments based on it. Wow. I struck a nerve, and that is cool. I am totally fine with people not agreeing with me, as I am happy to enjoy the First Amendment to the fullest. If you want to go check out the other opinions, they are as follows:
The Fandementalist with "Satana: evil = big knockers"
Occasional Superheroine with "She's Satan's Daughter- She's Supposed to be Bad"
I was not familiar with The Fandementalist before today, so I don't know the story there, but I have admired Occasional Superheroine and her journey for awhile, so it was a bit surreal to be linked by her. Cheers!
In other news, I went and signed up for P.O.W.E.R. in Comics today. I am really excited about this, and am planning to spend some time there when I am done with my post here. Lisa, you are amazing to me! Your idea to start this is so fantastic!
Speaking of fantastic, I found out that Swinebread from Atomic Romance was on the Ramblin'
Rod show back in the day. Man, that is so incredible! Back in Portland growing up, that was the show all the kids wanted to be on, and Swinebread, being the guy he is was actually on for his birthday. Man, I am still jealous about that!
Devon from Seven Hells! contemplates a DC Comics Presents issue that I loved back in the day. Superman and eight "forgotten heroes" team up in a crazy issue. Go check out his post.
Not much more to tell other then that I am ruminating on a new feature for my blog that has nothing to do with covers to speak of, or industry gossip. More on that tomorrow.
Thank you for all the comments on this week's gratuitous feature. As a flashback, here is a look at the first time I did it! For the record, I still think the shot of Raven's ass is overdone!
Take care and have a wonderful Saturday night! I am off to watch Metal Mania and read the Planet Hulk back issues!
The Fandementalist with "Satana: evil = big knockers"
Occasional Superheroine with "She's Satan's Daughter- She's Supposed to be Bad"
I was not familiar with The Fandementalist before today, so I don't know the story there, but I have admired Occasional Superheroine and her journey for awhile, so it was a bit surreal to be linked by her. Cheers!
In other news, I went and signed up for P.O.W.E.R. in Comics today. I am really excited about this, and am planning to spend some time there when I am done with my post here. Lisa, you are amazing to me! Your idea to start this is so fantastic!
Speaking of fantastic, I found out that Swinebread from Atomic Romance was on the Ramblin'
Rod show back in the day. Man, that is so incredible! Back in Portland growing up, that was the show all the kids wanted to be on, and Swinebread, being the guy he is was actually on for his birthday. Man, I am still jealous about that!
Devon from Seven Hells! contemplates a DC Comics Presents issue that I loved back in the day. Superman and eight "forgotten heroes" team up in a crazy issue. Go check out his post.
Not much more to tell other then that I am ruminating on a new feature for my blog that has nothing to do with covers to speak of, or industry gossip. More on that tomorrow.
Thank you for all the comments on this week's gratuitous feature. As a flashback, here is a look at the first time I did it! For the record, I still think the shot of Raven's ass is overdone!
Take care and have a wonderful Saturday night! I am off to watch Metal Mania and read the Planet Hulk back issues!
Friday, June 22, 2007
Is This Gratuitous? - Legion Of Monsters: Satana #1
This week's candidate for gratuitous glory is the cover to Legion of Monsters: Satana #1. My first thought upon seeing this cover from Marvel is that Satana has obviously made a deal with dear old Dad and had several of her ribs removed, because I seldom see women with waists that small.
Since artist Greg Land is notorious for lightboxing, I am also wondering if this pose has been taken from a men's magazine, ala Maxim or Stuff. The pose looks vaguely familiar, but I can't quite place it.
Satana is sporting a come hither facial expression reminiscent of said magazines, but with a porn face edge. Most notably, her old school wickedly long eyebrows appear to be long gone. As a character trademark, it throws me off to not see her with them.
I will grant that Satana is a sexy character; after all she is the Devil's daughter. I am just a bit curious what you all think of this "updated" look.
It's your call, my friends. Is this gratuitous?
Since artist Greg Land is notorious for lightboxing, I am also wondering if this pose has been taken from a men's magazine, ala Maxim or Stuff. The pose looks vaguely familiar, but I can't quite place it.
Satana is sporting a come hither facial expression reminiscent of said magazines, but with a porn face edge. Most notably, her old school wickedly long eyebrows appear to be long gone. As a character trademark, it throws me off to not see her with them.
I will grant that Satana is a sexy character; after all she is the Devil's daughter. I am just a bit curious what you all think of this "updated" look.
It's your call, my friends. Is this gratuitous?
Thursday, June 21, 2007
Random Thoughts and Rants
Today Jim got a phone call here at home from our local comic book retailer. They received in 2/3's of the books today. Jim took the bus downtown and picked up what he could. We are still missing Checkmate for me and Boneyard for him, but otherwise were able to pick up most of the books. That was a relief but the bad news is that we still need to make another trip downtown tomorrow. You see, if we don't pick up our books the first day, there is a large chance that our file will be pilfered and we will miss some of our stuff. When the staff pulls files, the books are all out on the front counter. If they don't get to ours right away, there is a good chance that some of our "special" stuff will be gone. I am not even going to go down that rant field because it makes me so frustrated!
In good news, my alma mater Oregon State is in the College World Series finals! Woo hoo! We are all hoping for a championship, so we can have back-to-back titles. You can pretty much guess where my attention will be this weekend!
When I was perusing blog@Newsarama, I stumbled upon a very cool post by Mark Engblom of Comic Coverage. It is titled "I Love(actually a heart sign) Opposite Numbers". I was really thrilled to see Mark there, and his post was excellent. Go check it out!
Lisa at Sequentially Speaking has an important post about the Comic Book Legal Defense Fund and it's need for donations to help pay for Gordon Lee's unfortunate court battle. Check out the full post to learn more, and give some dinero if you can. Now is the time to pledge to battle censorship in it's most heinous form.
Jim and I had a strange but true conversation about the cover of Justice League of America #10. We both mentioned that Power Girl's breasts were remarkably toned down on the Turner cover from what we had seen on the internet. It was a laugh so you don't cry moment when we realized that we both noticed it for the same reason- because we had read so much about the cover on the internet. I guess we both officially need some kind of mental help. Yikes.
I looked at Flash and JLA so that I could quit avoiding spoilers. The next to last page of Flash made me choke back tears. Wow. What a moment that was. I was considerably more underwhelmed by the conclusion of the "Lightning Saga". It felt rushed and it was hard to stay in the moment. Maybe if I read it in one sitting it will resonate more. My conclusion to the whole thing was to "wait and see" what happens. Will there be a big payoff? There better be after the events in these two books.
That's it for tonight! I am off to read the books I did get and try not to be pissed about having to make another trip tomorrow. Arrgghh!!
In good news, my alma mater Oregon State is in the College World Series finals! Woo hoo! We are all hoping for a championship, so we can have back-to-back titles. You can pretty much guess where my attention will be this weekend!
When I was perusing blog@Newsarama, I stumbled upon a very cool post by Mark Engblom of Comic Coverage. It is titled "I Love(actually a heart sign) Opposite Numbers". I was really thrilled to see Mark there, and his post was excellent. Go check it out!
Lisa at Sequentially Speaking has an important post about the Comic Book Legal Defense Fund and it's need for donations to help pay for Gordon Lee's unfortunate court battle. Check out the full post to learn more, and give some dinero if you can. Now is the time to pledge to battle censorship in it's most heinous form.
Jim and I had a strange but true conversation about the cover of Justice League of America #10. We both mentioned that Power Girl's breasts were remarkably toned down on the Turner cover from what we had seen on the internet. It was a laugh so you don't cry moment when we realized that we both noticed it for the same reason- because we had read so much about the cover on the internet. I guess we both officially need some kind of mental help. Yikes.
I looked at Flash and JLA so that I could quit avoiding spoilers. The next to last page of Flash made me choke back tears. Wow. What a moment that was. I was considerably more underwhelmed by the conclusion of the "Lightning Saga". It felt rushed and it was hard to stay in the moment. Maybe if I read it in one sitting it will resonate more. My conclusion to the whole thing was to "wait and see" what happens. Will there be a big payoff? There better be after the events in these two books.
That's it for tonight! I am off to read the books I did get and try not to be pissed about having to make another trip tomorrow. Arrgghh!!
Wednesday, June 20, 2007
Totally Pissed Off: No Comics AGAIN!
Well, I give up. Evidently we are never ever again going to know for sure if and when comics are going to show up. They were not there again today and won't be there until Friday. There was some kind of glitch and several customers didn't get shipped. Of course, Ron's was one of those customers.
After this week, I am never again going to drive to my retailer on a Wednesday expecting comics. Jim or I are going to call first. That way I don't waste my precious gas on a trip across town that wasn't worth making.
I also feel bad for my retailer. The manager was surrounded by fanboys and couldn't deliver the goods. It wasn't even her damn fault but she had to take crap and be polite. That wasn't fair to her at all.
So screw it. Diamond sucks. My comics are always going to be late. I am going to have to start my own company to make things right or I am just going to have to eat crap with a smile.
To top it off, I couldn't even read the Flash like all the rest of you lovely people. or even peruse JLA. I am an internet blogger without a story. I can't relate to the awesome reviews because I don't dare read them.
Anyone else get screwed by Diamond's horrible service today?
After this week, I am never again going to drive to my retailer on a Wednesday expecting comics. Jim or I are going to call first. That way I don't waste my precious gas on a trip across town that wasn't worth making.
I also feel bad for my retailer. The manager was surrounded by fanboys and couldn't deliver the goods. It wasn't even her damn fault but she had to take crap and be polite. That wasn't fair to her at all.
So screw it. Diamond sucks. My comics are always going to be late. I am going to have to start my own company to make things right or I am just going to have to eat crap with a smile.
To top it off, I couldn't even read the Flash like all the rest of you lovely people. or even peruse JLA. I am an internet blogger without a story. I can't relate to the awesome reviews because I don't dare read them.
Anyone else get screwed by Diamond's horrible service today?
Tuesday, June 19, 2007
Hey Girls- Comics! ... My Younger Self Ponders Life on the Internet
While perusing blog@Newsarama the other day, I happened upon a post entitled “Just Past the Horizon” in which Lisa Fortuner talks about the Misty Lee episode. It was thought provoking and on target, provoking several responses. Without going into great detail, let me just say that I read something in the one of comments that left me cold. Whether this person was being a smart ass or being serious, the following remarks were made:
“Reading this makes me long for the days when chicks didn’t read comics. Chalk me up as one who thinks this is fan entitlement gone crazy. At least I can tune y’all out by avoiding the internet. But lord, am I glad I don’t have to read the mail Marvel receives everyday. It must be whine after whine after whine, with an unhealthy dose of cheese-louise.
Also, I’ve been reading Spider-Man for twenty years (and now because he has brown hair like me…seriously, what a weird and superficial thing to identify with), and I’m a bit hard-pressed to recall when Mary Jane wasn’t being objectified. And freaking out about objectification that didn’t even occur in a comic book?
Maybe these ladies shouldn’t be reading comics. Maybe they’re taking them too seriously. If someone is going into a rage, or feels their self-identity is crumbling/under assault, because of a statue, or a cover illustration, then maybe it’s not comics they need, but therapy.”
Now, for all I know, this Ken person was just joking. My point is not to take him and single him out, but to use his comment to reflect a bit.
Here is my thought: if when I started reading comics in 1974 the internet would have been around wht would I have done? Would I have been turned off to comic books or would I have followed the same path I did back then that continues to this day? I guess I didn’t understand that comics were just for boys. I started with Wonder Woman, Batman, World’s Finest, and Brave and the Bold. I followed it up with Justice League of America, Flash, and Shazam!, without blinking an eye. There was nothing on the label saying it was gender specific, and no one around me gave me any crap about it.
But what if the internet had existed? What if I would have gotten online after reading comics for awhile and read through the posts around the news sites and blogs? Would I have run screaming for the hills? Maybe I would have taken up something more girly? God forbid. My older self wonders how my younger self would have been influenced by it all. How would my life be different today?
Reading comic books really helped expand my vocabulary. It also helped make me a spelling bee champion. I was always at the top of my class in English and creative writing. To this day I give comic books a great deal of credit for that. They made me want to read, and it helped me stair step into reading novels and historical periodicals. When I read Wonder Woman and “Mars” was the villain, I wanted to know about where he came from so I researched it. I am hard pressed to think of a negative influence comic books had on me then.
To this day I love to read comic books. They help me escape the stress of my daily life. Sometimes I can’t solve a problem by punching it, but watching Black Canary do it makes me feel a bit better. I can’t bench press 1000 pounds, but I admire the fact that She-Hulk does so with ease.
BUT…
I can’t get that nagging thought out of the back of my head. Would the internet have turned me off comics back in the day? What does the internet mean to beginning readers who come into our world? What do they think of our opinions and arguments? Are we just background fodder to their true passion, or do we have more of an influence then we think?
I don’t claim to have all the answers to this, but my younger self is glad she was left alone and allowed to read the comic books she wanted to. That is why I am happy to see Lisa start P.O.W.E.R. in Comics and try and find ways to promote the industry. I am not saying we should lie down and play dead, but maybe we should spend more time considering what we can do to draw in new readers rather then spend so much time dissecting what is wrong with the industry.
Oh, and Ken, if you are out there, I don’t scare that easy. I have loved reading comics for 33 years and am not stopping anytime soon.
“Reading this makes me long for the days when chicks didn’t read comics. Chalk me up as one who thinks this is fan entitlement gone crazy. At least I can tune y’all out by avoiding the internet. But lord, am I glad I don’t have to read the mail Marvel receives everyday. It must be whine after whine after whine, with an unhealthy dose of cheese-louise.
Also, I’ve been reading Spider-Man for twenty years (and now because he has brown hair like me…seriously, what a weird and superficial thing to identify with), and I’m a bit hard-pressed to recall when Mary Jane wasn’t being objectified. And freaking out about objectification that didn’t even occur in a comic book?
Maybe these ladies shouldn’t be reading comics. Maybe they’re taking them too seriously. If someone is going into a rage, or feels their self-identity is crumbling/under assault, because of a statue, or a cover illustration, then maybe it’s not comics they need, but therapy.”
Now, for all I know, this Ken person was just joking. My point is not to take him and single him out, but to use his comment to reflect a bit.
Here is my thought: if when I started reading comics in 1974 the internet would have been around wht would I have done? Would I have been turned off to comic books or would I have followed the same path I did back then that continues to this day? I guess I didn’t understand that comics were just for boys. I started with Wonder Woman, Batman, World’s Finest, and Brave and the Bold. I followed it up with Justice League of America, Flash, and Shazam!, without blinking an eye. There was nothing on the label saying it was gender specific, and no one around me gave me any crap about it.
But what if the internet had existed? What if I would have gotten online after reading comics for awhile and read through the posts around the news sites and blogs? Would I have run screaming for the hills? Maybe I would have taken up something more girly? God forbid. My older self wonders how my younger self would have been influenced by it all. How would my life be different today?
Reading comic books really helped expand my vocabulary. It also helped make me a spelling bee champion. I was always at the top of my class in English and creative writing. To this day I give comic books a great deal of credit for that. They made me want to read, and it helped me stair step into reading novels and historical periodicals. When I read Wonder Woman and “Mars” was the villain, I wanted to know about where he came from so I researched it. I am hard pressed to think of a negative influence comic books had on me then.
To this day I love to read comic books. They help me escape the stress of my daily life. Sometimes I can’t solve a problem by punching it, but watching Black Canary do it makes me feel a bit better. I can’t bench press 1000 pounds, but I admire the fact that She-Hulk does so with ease.
BUT…
I can’t get that nagging thought out of the back of my head. Would the internet have turned me off comics back in the day? What does the internet mean to beginning readers who come into our world? What do they think of our opinions and arguments? Are we just background fodder to their true passion, or do we have more of an influence then we think?
I don’t claim to have all the answers to this, but my younger self is glad she was left alone and allowed to read the comic books she wanted to. That is why I am happy to see Lisa start P.O.W.E.R. in Comics and try and find ways to promote the industry. I am not saying we should lie down and play dead, but maybe we should spend more time considering what we can do to draw in new readers rather then spend so much time dissecting what is wrong with the industry.
Oh, and Ken, if you are out there, I don’t scare that easy. I have loved reading comics for 33 years and am not stopping anytime soon.
Monday, June 18, 2007
New Comics for June 20
After working for about four hours yesterday, I haven't adjusted to the fact that today is Monday. My mind keeps trying to tell me it is Tuesday, so that means I will be off a day all week. Damn, I hate that.
I am happy that there are some great new books coming out this week. Hopefully it all shows up on time!
Here is this week's stuff!
Rex Mundi #6
Army @ Love #4
Brave and the Bold #4
Catwoman #68
Checkmate #15
Countdown #45
Ex Machina #29
Justice League of America #10
Shadowpact #14
Madame Mirage #1 - I am trying to get past the cover and see what is inside!!
Amazing Spider-Man #541
Captain America #27
Incredible Hulk #107- with splendid Gary Frank Cover!!
Ultimate Spider-Man #110
That's it for this week. I do wish I would have gotten the Incredible Hulk issues that dealt with the whole "Planet Hulk" arc now. It sounds like it was a great read that was "Civil War" free. Maybe I can find some back issues and try it out.
Have a wonderful evening! Thank you for the positive feedback this weekend!
I am happy that there are some great new books coming out this week. Hopefully it all shows up on time!
Here is this week's stuff!
Rex Mundi #6
Army @ Love #4
Brave and the Bold #4
Catwoman #68
Checkmate #15
Countdown #45
Ex Machina #29
Justice League of America #10
Shadowpact #14
Madame Mirage #1 - I am trying to get past the cover and see what is inside!!
Amazing Spider-Man #541
Captain America #27
Incredible Hulk #107- with splendid Gary Frank Cover!!
Ultimate Spider-Man #110
That's it for this week. I do wish I would have gotten the Incredible Hulk issues that dealt with the whole "Planet Hulk" arc now. It sounds like it was a great read that was "Civil War" free. Maybe I can find some back issues and try it out.
Have a wonderful evening! Thank you for the positive feedback this weekend!
Sunday, June 17, 2007
New Comic Book Previews of Interest
After checking out DC's advance solicitations for September, I am pretty eager for summer to be over, and it hasn't even officially started. Some of the things coming up make me a bit questioning, while others evoke an eagerness for the book to come out already!
To start things out, the final installment of "Who is Wonder Woman" is coming out as Wonder Woman Annual #1. It's about damn time, but I will believe it when I see it. Here are the specs:
"WONDER WOMAN ANNUAL #1
Written by Allan Heinberg
Art by Terry Dodson & Rachel Dodson
and Gary Frank & Jonathan Sibal
Cover by Terry Dodson & Rachel Dodson
At long last, the climactic, extra-length chapter of “Who is Wonder Woman?”, the story that launched the WONDER WOMAN monthly! In this arc's conclusion, the combined forces of Wonder Woman's transformed rogues gallery declare an all-out war on the amazing Amazon, compelling Wonder Woman to mend fences and join forces with Donna Troy and Wonder Girl if she's going to survive to answer the question: “Who is Wonder Woman?”
And if the return of Allan Heinberg and Terry Dodson isn't enough, there's also an all-new backup by Heinberg and the upcoming art team of ACTION COMICS, Gary Frank & Jonathan Sibal, featuring the secret origins of Wonder Woman, Donna Troy, Wonder Girl, Sarge Steel and Nemesis! All questions will be answered, all secrets revealed!
On sale September 26 • 48 pg, FC, $3.99 US "
There is another book coming out that really intrigues me. It is a Countdown tie-in that involves the search for Ray Palmer, and stars Donna, Kyle, and Jason. A tour of the multiverses sounds incredibly cool.
"COUNTDOWN PRESENTS THE SEARCH FOR RAY PALMER: WILDSTORM #1
Written by Ron Marz
Art by Paco Herrera
Cover by Arthur Adams
The Search for Ray Palmer truly kicks into high gear, as Kyle Rayner, Donna Troy and Jason Todd scour the Multiverse for the former Atom, who just might hold the key to saving reality from a crisis of unparalleled proportions. The trio's first stop: the Wildstorm Universe, where they come face-to-face with an entirely different -- and entirely more lethal -- brand of heroes. Wildstorm's finest are all here, including The Authority and Gen13, and they don't prepare a warm welcome for their visitors! The tour of the new DC Multiverse begins here!
On sale September 12 • 32 pg, FC, $2.99 US"
Suicide Squad is coming back and it has John Ostrander writing and the super hot art team from Manhunter, Javier Pina and Robin Riggs along for the ride. As long as we have been waiting for the inevitable return, seeing the creative team makes it even more thrilling.
"SUICIDE SQUAD: RAISE THE FLAG #1
Written by John Ostrander
Art by Javier Pina & Robin Riggs
Cover by John K. Snyder
When original Suicide Squad member Rick Flag Jr. returned from the dead in the pages of CHECKMATE, it blew open a brand-new espionage mystery for the DC Universe! In this eagerly awaited miniseries by legendary Squad writer John Ostrander (WORLD WAR III), it’s revealed how Flag survived a nuclear blast while battling terrorism in Qurac — as his hard path home takes him from Skartaris to Dubai and into the hands of dueling commanders Amanda Waller and General Wade Eiling. Their power struggle reveals surprising secrets from their pasts — even as a new Suicide Squad is created to play a key role in the DCU’s ever-evolving future!
On sale September 12 • 1 of 8 • 32 pg, FC, $2.99 US Edited by Joan Hilty"
In extremely disturbing news, it looks like Kyle Rayner is going to be put through the ringer again. The Sinestro Corps may be taking him to a place I don't want him to go. I am debating on panicking now or waiting until later. Here is what it says:
"TALES OF THE SINESTRO CORPS PRESENTS PARALLAX #1
Written by Ron Marz
Art by Adriana Melo & Marlo Alquiza
Cover by Mike McKone & Andy Lanning
Get ready for a new series of specials focusing on members of the Sinestro Corps and tying into the “Sinestro Corps War” crossover! In this initial installment, the writer who introduced Kyle, Ron Marz, dissects what led Kyle to his downfall and explains the Parallax entity.
On sale September 19 • 32 pg, FC, $2.99 US"
Finally, the Teen Titans from the future are back, and it doesn't look like they are playing nice. This should be pretty fascinating to behold.
"TEEN TITANS #51
Written by Sean McKeever
Art by Alé Garza & Marlo Alquiza
Cover by Alé Garza & Scott Williams
The Titans of Tomorrow are here today! The super-popular future Titans are arrive in our present time , and they’ve already taken out the Justice League. What crucial historical event are they here to stop — or contribute to?
On sale September 26 • 32 pg, FC, $2.99 US"
Head over to Newsarama for the full skinny on other books coming out. I am going to sit here and contemplate the fate of some of my favorite characters and start placing bets on if the Wonder Woman Annual actually ships.
To start things out, the final installment of "Who is Wonder Woman" is coming out as Wonder Woman Annual #1. It's about damn time, but I will believe it when I see it. Here are the specs:
"WONDER WOMAN ANNUAL #1
Written by Allan Heinberg
Art by Terry Dodson & Rachel Dodson
and Gary Frank & Jonathan Sibal
Cover by Terry Dodson & Rachel Dodson
At long last, the climactic, extra-length chapter of “Who is Wonder Woman?”, the story that launched the WONDER WOMAN monthly! In this arc's conclusion, the combined forces of Wonder Woman's transformed rogues gallery declare an all-out war on the amazing Amazon, compelling Wonder Woman to mend fences and join forces with Donna Troy and Wonder Girl if she's going to survive to answer the question: “Who is Wonder Woman?”
And if the return of Allan Heinberg and Terry Dodson isn't enough, there's also an all-new backup by Heinberg and the upcoming art team of ACTION COMICS, Gary Frank & Jonathan Sibal, featuring the secret origins of Wonder Woman, Donna Troy, Wonder Girl, Sarge Steel and Nemesis! All questions will be answered, all secrets revealed!
On sale September 26 • 48 pg, FC, $3.99 US "
There is another book coming out that really intrigues me. It is a Countdown tie-in that involves the search for Ray Palmer, and stars Donna, Kyle, and Jason. A tour of the multiverses sounds incredibly cool.
"COUNTDOWN PRESENTS THE SEARCH FOR RAY PALMER: WILDSTORM #1
Written by Ron Marz
Art by Paco Herrera
Cover by Arthur Adams
The Search for Ray Palmer truly kicks into high gear, as Kyle Rayner, Donna Troy and Jason Todd scour the Multiverse for the former Atom, who just might hold the key to saving reality from a crisis of unparalleled proportions. The trio's first stop: the Wildstorm Universe, where they come face-to-face with an entirely different -- and entirely more lethal -- brand of heroes. Wildstorm's finest are all here, including The Authority and Gen13, and they don't prepare a warm welcome for their visitors! The tour of the new DC Multiverse begins here!
On sale September 12 • 32 pg, FC, $2.99 US"
Suicide Squad is coming back and it has John Ostrander writing and the super hot art team from Manhunter, Javier Pina and Robin Riggs along for the ride. As long as we have been waiting for the inevitable return, seeing the creative team makes it even more thrilling.
"SUICIDE SQUAD: RAISE THE FLAG #1
Written by John Ostrander
Art by Javier Pina & Robin Riggs
Cover by John K. Snyder
When original Suicide Squad member Rick Flag Jr. returned from the dead in the pages of CHECKMATE, it blew open a brand-new espionage mystery for the DC Universe! In this eagerly awaited miniseries by legendary Squad writer John Ostrander (WORLD WAR III), it’s revealed how Flag survived a nuclear blast while battling terrorism in Qurac — as his hard path home takes him from Skartaris to Dubai and into the hands of dueling commanders Amanda Waller and General Wade Eiling. Their power struggle reveals surprising secrets from their pasts — even as a new Suicide Squad is created to play a key role in the DCU’s ever-evolving future!
On sale September 12 • 1 of 8 • 32 pg, FC, $2.99 US Edited by Joan Hilty"
In extremely disturbing news, it looks like Kyle Rayner is going to be put through the ringer again. The Sinestro Corps may be taking him to a place I don't want him to go. I am debating on panicking now or waiting until later. Here is what it says:
"TALES OF THE SINESTRO CORPS PRESENTS PARALLAX #1
Written by Ron Marz
Art by Adriana Melo & Marlo Alquiza
Cover by Mike McKone & Andy Lanning
Get ready for a new series of specials focusing on members of the Sinestro Corps and tying into the “Sinestro Corps War” crossover! In this initial installment, the writer who introduced Kyle, Ron Marz, dissects what led Kyle to his downfall and explains the Parallax entity.
On sale September 19 • 32 pg, FC, $2.99 US"
Finally, the Teen Titans from the future are back, and it doesn't look like they are playing nice. This should be pretty fascinating to behold.
"TEEN TITANS #51
Written by Sean McKeever
Art by Alé Garza & Marlo Alquiza
Cover by Alé Garza & Scott Williams
The Titans of Tomorrow are here today! The super-popular future Titans are arrive in our present time , and they’ve already taken out the Justice League. What crucial historical event are they here to stop — or contribute to?
On sale September 26 • 32 pg, FC, $2.99 US"
Head over to Newsarama for the full skinny on other books coming out. I am going to sit here and contemplate the fate of some of my favorite characters and start placing bets on if the Wonder Woman Annual actually ships.
Saturday, June 16, 2007
Comic Convention News Frenzy
Well, it's official. Green Arrow and Black Canary are doing it. Well, they are doing THAT, but they are getting married as well. According to Newsarama, this new Previews will feature all the solicits for the blessed event, including a JLA Special, a wedding planning one shot and the actual event itself. While I am intrigued by this news, I am most interested to see how it all plays out. I wasn't at all wanting to have the couple get back together or get married, so wrapping my head around the impending nuptials is a tough one in itself. For the full scoop, head over to Newsarama.
In exciting news, Peter David is taking over She-Hulk after Dan Slott leaves. As a huge fan of his long run on Incredible Hulk, this is fantastic to hear. I also appreciate the way David takes on female characters, most notably his Fallen Angel series at IDW and his portrayal of the female members of X-Factor. Instead of being sad at Slott leaving now, I am happily looking forward to the future of the book. David knows Shulkie.
Dwayne McDuffie is taking over Justice League of America after Brad Meltzer leaves. This is another piece of good news. I am appreciating his work on Fantastic Four, and am looking forward to seeing his work on the JLA.
Cassandra Sandsmark AKA Wonder Girl is getting a six issue mini series. Written by J. Torres, this should be a great chance to see how the character has evolved without the weight of a team book taking her out of the spotlight. This is once again great news.
Encouraging news on Wonder Woman pencils:
"Who will be drawing Wonder Woman once Gail Simone takes over? DiDio: “I believe it will continue to be Drew Johnson and Terry/Rachel Dodson.” "
This is all pleasantly surprising to me. I can hardly wait for the next six months to see how this all works. I have a lot of mixed emotions on the Canary/Arrow union, so I am waiting for the powers to be to make me believe in it.
What news have you heard that you think is cool/sad/scary?
In exciting news, Peter David is taking over She-Hulk after Dan Slott leaves. As a huge fan of his long run on Incredible Hulk, this is fantastic to hear. I also appreciate the way David takes on female characters, most notably his Fallen Angel series at IDW and his portrayal of the female members of X-Factor. Instead of being sad at Slott leaving now, I am happily looking forward to the future of the book. David knows Shulkie.
Dwayne McDuffie is taking over Justice League of America after Brad Meltzer leaves. This is another piece of good news. I am appreciating his work on Fantastic Four, and am looking forward to seeing his work on the JLA.
Cassandra Sandsmark AKA Wonder Girl is getting a six issue mini series. Written by J. Torres, this should be a great chance to see how the character has evolved without the weight of a team book taking her out of the spotlight. This is once again great news.
Encouraging news on Wonder Woman pencils:
"Who will be drawing Wonder Woman once Gail Simone takes over? DiDio: “I believe it will continue to be Drew Johnson and Terry/Rachel Dodson.” "
This is all pleasantly surprising to me. I can hardly wait for the next six months to see how this all works. I have a lot of mixed emotions on the Canary/Arrow union, so I am waiting for the powers to be to make me believe in it.
What news have you heard that you think is cool/sad/scary?
Friday, June 15, 2007
Kicking Up My Heels!
Well, I had every intention of being a good blogger tonight, but I ended up running into some old friends and drinking a few beers, so my better judgement is telling me to keep it short! It is always a treat to see friends unexpectedly and be able to pick up where you left off, even if it has been a span of time. That was tonight for me.
So to keep it brief:
Woo hoo! I just read at Newsarama that Mark Waid is coming back to Flash. Yay!
Now I need to read Spider-Man Loves Mary Jane. Terry Moore, my hero behind Strangers in Paradise is going to start on the book. It will be a must have!
It sounds like both Wizard World Philly and Heroes Con are great events. I am a bit jealous that I can't attend, so I will be eagerly scanning the news coming from both.
Tomorrow I will try and provide links and check my spelling. I will also reply on my comments. Even though I had very little to drink, it still makes me wonder how much it impairs my judgement.
Take care and have a wonderful evening! See you tomorrow!
So to keep it brief:
Woo hoo! I just read at Newsarama that Mark Waid is coming back to Flash. Yay!
Now I need to read Spider-Man Loves Mary Jane. Terry Moore, my hero behind Strangers in Paradise is going to start on the book. It will be a must have!
It sounds like both Wizard World Philly and Heroes Con are great events. I am a bit jealous that I can't attend, so I will be eagerly scanning the news coming from both.
Tomorrow I will try and provide links and check my spelling. I will also reply on my comments. Even though I had very little to drink, it still makes me wonder how much it impairs my judgement.
Take care and have a wonderful evening! See you tomorrow!
Thursday, June 14, 2007
Temperamental Musings
I just got done reading New Avengers #31. Arrggghhh! What kind of crap was that nonsense that this issue was a must have? That it would be on par with Captain America #25? What a bunch of over-exagerated hype.
I pretty much want a refund, but I don't want my retailer to pay the price.
In better news, I have been reading my Manhunter run the last few days and it holds up beautifully. Good stuff. All of you who haven't read Manhunter need to give it a try. Go grab a trade or pick up some back issues. We need to get some support going again to get the book back. I miss it terribly.
Countdown still hasn't gotten quite there yet for me. I am still waiting to see Kyle Rayner, and I am wondering why Donna Troy has been paired up with Jason Todd. The Mary Marvel and Jimmy Olsen storylines do interest me, and I hope to see them warm up sooner then later.
Otherwise I am pretty bummed. I read Strangers in Paradise #90 and loved it, but kept feeling sad because it was the end. How Terry Moore has held up so well during such a poignant and emotional time is beyond me, because it rips my guts up. I am hoping to read that series again this weekend and in the next few weeks.
Bottom line: pissed about New Avengers, sad about Strangers in Paradise, and hopeful that Manhunter will come back. Definitely undecided about Countdown.
To top it off, I am sore and irritable from working out so much this week. Hand me the ibuprofen!
What are your thoughts on this week's comics?
I pretty much want a refund, but I don't want my retailer to pay the price.
In better news, I have been reading my Manhunter run the last few days and it holds up beautifully. Good stuff. All of you who haven't read Manhunter need to give it a try. Go grab a trade or pick up some back issues. We need to get some support going again to get the book back. I miss it terribly.
Countdown still hasn't gotten quite there yet for me. I am still waiting to see Kyle Rayner, and I am wondering why Donna Troy has been paired up with Jason Todd. The Mary Marvel and Jimmy Olsen storylines do interest me, and I hope to see them warm up sooner then later.
Otherwise I am pretty bummed. I read Strangers in Paradise #90 and loved it, but kept feeling sad because it was the end. How Terry Moore has held up so well during such a poignant and emotional time is beyond me, because it rips my guts up. I am hoping to read that series again this weekend and in the next few weeks.
Bottom line: pissed about New Avengers, sad about Strangers in Paradise, and hopeful that Manhunter will come back. Definitely undecided about Countdown.
To top it off, I am sore and irritable from working out so much this week. Hand me the ibuprofen!
What are your thoughts on this week's comics?
Wednesday, June 13, 2007
Is This Gratuitous? Madame Mirage #1 Rocafort cover
This week we have Madame Mirage #1 from Top Cow as our contendor for gratuitous glory. I have to admit to a lack of surprise at seeing that the issue was "Oversized" as the cover had pretty much given that away.
The real magic here is how her chest got so, well, hmmm..., busty. I have never seen a wonder bra that is that good, so I am assuming Madame Mirage used a spell? Also I am a bit curious where her nipples are. They have got to be ready to pop out at any moment, but it seems like the top part of her chest is disproportionate to the bottom part. I surely have never seen breasts like that nature.
Once I get past the chest, I kind of like the sassy veil and the tilt of her hat. It just is tough to get to that part as the main attraction is not the face. I am really surprised that Kenneth Rocofort's cover seems to top Greg Horn's in terms of bodaciousness.
As I sit here in shock at the incredible gravity defying nature of Madame Mirage's glory, I can only ask one question.
Is this gratuitous?
The real magic here is how her chest got so, well, hmmm..., busty. I have never seen a wonder bra that is that good, so I am assuming Madame Mirage used a spell? Also I am a bit curious where her nipples are. They have got to be ready to pop out at any moment, but it seems like the top part of her chest is disproportionate to the bottom part. I surely have never seen breasts like that nature.
Once I get past the chest, I kind of like the sassy veil and the tilt of her hat. It just is tough to get to that part as the main attraction is not the face. I am really surprised that Kenneth Rocofort's cover seems to top Greg Horn's in terms of bodaciousness.
As I sit here in shock at the incredible gravity defying nature of Madame Mirage's glory, I can only ask one question.
Is this gratuitous?
Monday, June 11, 2007
New Comics for June 13
Is it already mid-June? Where has the month gone? It has been crazy around here, and I can't keep up with time. My dad has always told me it goes faster as we get older, and I am really starting to believe him.
With that said, here is my list of comics for this week!
Countdown #46
Fables #62
Gen 13 #9
Green Arrow #75- the infamous proposal cover
Justice #12 (of 12)
Loveless #18
Stormwatch PHD #8
Trials of Shazam #7 (of 12)
Noble Causes #30
PVP #34
New Avengers #31
New X-Men #39
Punisher War Journal #8
Strangers In Paradise #90- the final issue. SOB!
That's it for the week. I am keeping it short and sweet as I am super hungry and dinner is cooking! Have a wonderful evening!
With that said, here is my list of comics for this week!
Countdown #46
Fables #62
Gen 13 #9
Green Arrow #75- the infamous proposal cover
Justice #12 (of 12)
Loveless #18
Stormwatch PHD #8
Trials of Shazam #7 (of 12)
Noble Causes #30
PVP #34
New Avengers #31
New X-Men #39
Punisher War Journal #8
Strangers In Paradise #90- the final issue. SOB!
That's it for the week. I am keeping it short and sweet as I am super hungry and dinner is cooking! Have a wonderful evening!
Sunday, June 10, 2007
Quick Take Reviews for June 10
Birds of Prey #107: The finale to the Secret Six crossover happens here, and it is quite the kick in the butt. Between Lady Blackhawk’s reaction and the great dialogue, I really enjoyed the ride. It also made me very sad that Gail Simone is leaving the book. She really put her stamp on it and made it her own. I can comfort myself with the fact that artist Nicola Scott is staying put for the time being. Grade: B+.
The Punisher #48: The deeper this current storyline goes, the more I find myself sucked in completely. Five mafia widows go after the Punisher with surprising results, and writer Garth Ennis finds his soul in the mix. I can’t say enough about how good this book is. Grade: A.
Outsiders #48: I don’t know what is going to happen to the Outsiders as a result of this crossover with Checkmate, but I do know that it has made the characters more relevant to me now then they have been since “One Year Later”. A shake up is just what this team needs, and I am hoping for fresh writing blood on the book sooner then later. As for now, the title seems to be in a holding pattern. Best part: Matthew Clark and Ron Randall’s tag team art. Grade: C.
Detective Comics #833: In my mind, this has been the best Bat book of the past year. I have loved the one-shots and especially appreciate the creative team of Paul Dini, Don Kramer, and Wayne Faucher. The quality of these stories is high, and I get the sense of a work of art in each issue. This rare two-parter guest starring Zatanna is no exception. I love this book. Grade: A.
Uncanny X-Men #487: Part of the team is back from space, and things are off kilter in all respects. Ed Brubaker has really shook things up with the last year’s story line, and it shows here. Storm comes back for this storyline, and it is a welcome homecoming. I also enjoyed Salvador Larocca’s artwork. With the return of the Morlocks, things should heat up nicely. While this isn’t my favorite X-title, it is certainly a quality one. Grade: B.
Witchblade/The Punisher: This book felt really off to me from page one. With the recent events in Sara Pezzini’s book, it just didn’t work for me. I appreciated Adriana Melo’s artwork, but didn’t think it was one of Ron Marz’ better efforts. I think the man has too much on his plate. Save your money on this one and go get the regular Punisher or Witchblade title. Grade: D.
New Warriors #1: Surprise hit of the week for me. I picked this up mostly for curiosity purposes and was really pleased with what I saw. I never saw the characters coming, and I absolutely am awed by the excellent scripting done by Kevin Grevioux. I also loved Paco Medina and Juan Vlasco’s artwork. Overall, this book was my pick of the week for quality and unexpected excellence. Grade: A.
The Punisher #48: The deeper this current storyline goes, the more I find myself sucked in completely. Five mafia widows go after the Punisher with surprising results, and writer Garth Ennis finds his soul in the mix. I can’t say enough about how good this book is. Grade: A.
Outsiders #48: I don’t know what is going to happen to the Outsiders as a result of this crossover with Checkmate, but I do know that it has made the characters more relevant to me now then they have been since “One Year Later”. A shake up is just what this team needs, and I am hoping for fresh writing blood on the book sooner then later. As for now, the title seems to be in a holding pattern. Best part: Matthew Clark and Ron Randall’s tag team art. Grade: C.
Detective Comics #833: In my mind, this has been the best Bat book of the past year. I have loved the one-shots and especially appreciate the creative team of Paul Dini, Don Kramer, and Wayne Faucher. The quality of these stories is high, and I get the sense of a work of art in each issue. This rare two-parter guest starring Zatanna is no exception. I love this book. Grade: A.
Uncanny X-Men #487: Part of the team is back from space, and things are off kilter in all respects. Ed Brubaker has really shook things up with the last year’s story line, and it shows here. Storm comes back for this storyline, and it is a welcome homecoming. I also enjoyed Salvador Larocca’s artwork. With the return of the Morlocks, things should heat up nicely. While this isn’t my favorite X-title, it is certainly a quality one. Grade: B.
Witchblade/The Punisher: This book felt really off to me from page one. With the recent events in Sara Pezzini’s book, it just didn’t work for me. I appreciated Adriana Melo’s artwork, but didn’t think it was one of Ron Marz’ better efforts. I think the man has too much on his plate. Save your money on this one and go get the regular Punisher or Witchblade title. Grade: D.
New Warriors #1: Surprise hit of the week for me. I picked this up mostly for curiosity purposes and was really pleased with what I saw. I never saw the characters coming, and I absolutely am awed by the excellent scripting done by Kevin Grevioux. I also loved Paco Medina and Juan Vlasco’s artwork. Overall, this book was my pick of the week for quality and unexpected excellence. Grade: A.
Saturday, June 09, 2007
Wizard Magazine Announces New Hires: Nothing To Change!
Here is a press release via Newsarama on Wizard staffing adds and changes:
"Wizard Entertainment today announced several Wizard editorial promotions and the addition of a newly created West Coast office. Brian Cunningham has been promoted to the position of Executive Editor; Mike Cotton has been promoted to the position of Managing Editor; Sean Collins steps into the newly created position of Online Managing Editor and Savas Abadsidis has been hired to head up the Hollywood editorial office in the position of West Coast Editor.
In making the announcement Wizard Editor-In-Chief Scott Gramling said, “The promotion of three of the key editorial minds behind Wizard is a credit to their extensive body of work with the brand. The addition of a West Coast office was a logical step forward for a brand that serves fans of entertainment and pop culture.”
Brian Cunningham has been with Wizard Entertainment since 1991, becoming a full-time staffer in 1993. Cunningham has contributed to more than 150 issues and is spearheading the creation of the magazine’s special 200th issue due out the early part of 2008.
Mike Cotton started at Wizard as a staff writer in the fall of 1999. He has conducted several of the high-profile celebrity interviews for which Wizard has become known, including recent features on Tobey Maguire, Transformers Director Michael Bay, Samuel L Jackson and writer/director Kevin Smith.
Sean Collins joined Wizard in 2004 as a managing editor. He will be shifting his focus from print to the rapidly growing WizardUniverse.com, which in the past 12 months has increased its total audience by 600%.
Savas Abadsidis gives Wizard a significant editorial presence on the West Coast. He is an accomplished editor with an extensive background in entertainment and publishing, having recently served as executive editor of men’s lifestyle magazine Complex.
Gramling continued, “These moves bolster our ability to continue to produce the most relevant magazine and Website for 18-to-34-year-old male fans of comics, pop culture and entertainment. It also allows us to start focusing on several huge future projects, including our milestone 200th issue, which is now less than a year away.”
So basically, this means that nothing is going to change. Yes, the banner of pop culture rather then comic books is being waved, but keeping the same guys around and promoting them is not going to lead to a significant step forward to diversity or new interests. It means that I can expect the same kind of articles that cater to the "oh look, boobies!" mentality that have put this magazine out of my subscription list. As a reader of Maxim and a former reader of Wizard, I can tell the difference between "manly fun" and ignorance, and I am fearful this means that things are not going to change.
Forgive my disapointment, but I was really hoping for lots of new blood to be injected here. Having met Mike Cotton and thinking he was a good guy, it is hard for me to criticise, but I just can't help but think this is not the step forward that readers were hoping for.
Does anyone know a female staffer at Wizard I could e-mail? I am curious about the experiences of women working for Wizard. Ten years ago, I thought it was one of the coolest places to work at possible. Now I just don't know.
Thoughts?
"Wizard Entertainment today announced several Wizard editorial promotions and the addition of a newly created West Coast office. Brian Cunningham has been promoted to the position of Executive Editor; Mike Cotton has been promoted to the position of Managing Editor; Sean Collins steps into the newly created position of Online Managing Editor and Savas Abadsidis has been hired to head up the Hollywood editorial office in the position of West Coast Editor.
In making the announcement Wizard Editor-In-Chief Scott Gramling said, “The promotion of three of the key editorial minds behind Wizard is a credit to their extensive body of work with the brand. The addition of a West Coast office was a logical step forward for a brand that serves fans of entertainment and pop culture.”
Brian Cunningham has been with Wizard Entertainment since 1991, becoming a full-time staffer in 1993. Cunningham has contributed to more than 150 issues and is spearheading the creation of the magazine’s special 200th issue due out the early part of 2008.
Mike Cotton started at Wizard as a staff writer in the fall of 1999. He has conducted several of the high-profile celebrity interviews for which Wizard has become known, including recent features on Tobey Maguire, Transformers Director Michael Bay, Samuel L Jackson and writer/director Kevin Smith.
Sean Collins joined Wizard in 2004 as a managing editor. He will be shifting his focus from print to the rapidly growing WizardUniverse.com, which in the past 12 months has increased its total audience by 600%.
Savas Abadsidis gives Wizard a significant editorial presence on the West Coast. He is an accomplished editor with an extensive background in entertainment and publishing, having recently served as executive editor of men’s lifestyle magazine Complex.
Gramling continued, “These moves bolster our ability to continue to produce the most relevant magazine and Website for 18-to-34-year-old male fans of comics, pop culture and entertainment. It also allows us to start focusing on several huge future projects, including our milestone 200th issue, which is now less than a year away.”
So basically, this means that nothing is going to change. Yes, the banner of pop culture rather then comic books is being waved, but keeping the same guys around and promoting them is not going to lead to a significant step forward to diversity or new interests. It means that I can expect the same kind of articles that cater to the "oh look, boobies!" mentality that have put this magazine out of my subscription list. As a reader of Maxim and a former reader of Wizard, I can tell the difference between "manly fun" and ignorance, and I am fearful this means that things are not going to change.
Forgive my disapointment, but I was really hoping for lots of new blood to be injected here. Having met Mike Cotton and thinking he was a good guy, it is hard for me to criticise, but I just can't help but think this is not the step forward that readers were hoping for.
Does anyone know a female staffer at Wizard I could e-mail? I am curious about the experiences of women working for Wizard. Ten years ago, I thought it was one of the coolest places to work at possible. Now I just don't know.
Thoughts?
Friday, June 08, 2007
Taking the Night Off!
For the first time in a long time, I don't have much to say. I guess I will blame the long workday and the long workout that followed.
Speaking of workouts, I finally got my "Get In Shape" portraits back. Pictured is the one of me solo. It is a tad bit vain, but I worked really, really hard for those arms. My team dressed in a biker theme, and our name was "Team Mayhem" hence the black gear and biker mama pose.
Special thanks to Gary Delp, the photographer that took the pictures. He did a fantastic job! If you get a chance, I have two other pics on my flickr gallery- one of my team and one of my workout partner Kerry and I.
Have a wonderful evening!
Speaking of workouts, I finally got my "Get In Shape" portraits back. Pictured is the one of me solo. It is a tad bit vain, but I worked really, really hard for those arms. My team dressed in a biker theme, and our name was "Team Mayhem" hence the black gear and biker mama pose.
Special thanks to Gary Delp, the photographer that took the pictures. He did a fantastic job! If you get a chance, I have two other pics on my flickr gallery- one of my team and one of my workout partner Kerry and I.
Have a wonderful evening!
Thursday, June 07, 2007
Is This Gratuitous? Alien Pig Farm 3000 #2
Until my hubby found this cover, I had never heard of Alien Pig Farm 3000. Once I did, I headed over to their killer website to experience the madness. Published by Image Comics, and brought to you by the folks at RAW Studios, the blurb for issue #2 reads as follows:
"Put yer head between yer knees and kiss yer sister goodbye! Them green-skinned sumbitches is hungry fer pig innards and horny fer farmgirls. But don't nobody fondle the cousins while eatin bacon cept Johnny Ray and Elvis! Consider the can of whoopass open!"
So I have to figure this book is aimed more at adults, right? At least the cover and the blurb believe me to think so.
Oh yeah, the cover gives me a clue as well. Drawn by Mark Shultz, this sexy babe is plumb bursting out of her top, and she is losing her shorts trying to escape the bad things. Yikes!
Tell me, is it marketing genius, a bit gratuitous, or both? It's yer call!!
"Put yer head between yer knees and kiss yer sister goodbye! Them green-skinned sumbitches is hungry fer pig innards and horny fer farmgirls. But don't nobody fondle the cousins while eatin bacon cept Johnny Ray and Elvis! Consider the can of whoopass open!"
So I have to figure this book is aimed more at adults, right? At least the cover and the blurb believe me to think so.
Oh yeah, the cover gives me a clue as well. Drawn by Mark Shultz, this sexy babe is plumb bursting out of her top, and she is losing her shorts trying to escape the bad things. Yikes!
Tell me, is it marketing genius, a bit gratuitous, or both? It's yer call!!
Wednesday, June 06, 2007
Random Thoughts and Musings
Happy Wednesday! It was a good day at the local comic book shop, as all the books arrived in a timely fashion. Fanboys and Fangirls alike rejoiced and high-fived, calling the day a success. Heh.
I haven't link-blogged for over a week, and I wanted to recognize some of my fellow bloggers for their incredible insights. I love to go visit other sites and see what is going on, and I usually learn a thing or two.
Lisa at Sequentially Speaking has come up with an amazing concept called POWER in Comics. Head over there and take a look. I am really impressed and hope to be able to help in some way.
Mark at Comic Coverage has another chapter of "All I Need to Know I Learned From Comic Books". It is good stuff. I continue to enjoy Mark's wicked sense of humor and sharp wit.
Over at Ye Olde Comick Book Blog, you have got to see it to believe it. Spoiler alert: do not check it out if you are at work. The boys have taken a Marvel cover and, well, altered it a bit. I will reserve comment and let you form your own opinion!
A belated congratulations to Redhead Fangirl on her blogoversary! I am crossing my fingers for many more great years to come! Go check out one of my favorite female bloggers!
I got a good chuckle out of "Weird-ass Cover Wednesday" over at Noetic Concordance. I appreciate you, Vaklam!
Last but not least, my hubby takes a look at weddings gone wrong in his "wedding bell blues" week cover featurette.
That's it for me tonight. I bought the new Anita Blake novel "The Harlequin" by Laurell K. Hamilton last night and am eager to finish reading it. I read about half of it last night and had to force myself to go to bed instead of reading too late!
Have a wonderful evening!
I haven't link-blogged for over a week, and I wanted to recognize some of my fellow bloggers for their incredible insights. I love to go visit other sites and see what is going on, and I usually learn a thing or two.
Lisa at Sequentially Speaking has come up with an amazing concept called POWER in Comics. Head over there and take a look. I am really impressed and hope to be able to help in some way.
Mark at Comic Coverage has another chapter of "All I Need to Know I Learned From Comic Books". It is good stuff. I continue to enjoy Mark's wicked sense of humor and sharp wit.
Over at Ye Olde Comick Book Blog, you have got to see it to believe it. Spoiler alert: do not check it out if you are at work. The boys have taken a Marvel cover and, well, altered it a bit. I will reserve comment and let you form your own opinion!
A belated congratulations to Redhead Fangirl on her blogoversary! I am crossing my fingers for many more great years to come! Go check out one of my favorite female bloggers!
I got a good chuckle out of "Weird-ass Cover Wednesday" over at Noetic Concordance. I appreciate you, Vaklam!
Last but not least, my hubby takes a look at weddings gone wrong in his "wedding bell blues" week cover featurette.
That's it for me tonight. I bought the new Anita Blake novel "The Harlequin" by Laurell K. Hamilton last night and am eager to finish reading it. I read about half of it last night and had to force myself to go to bed instead of reading too late!
Have a wonderful evening!
Tuesday, June 05, 2007
A Serious Musing on the Female Body
With all the discussions of late about the Mary Jane statue and the Heroes for Hire cover, I have been thinking a great deal about body types and what is attainable. I have also been pondering what a healthy woman would look like, and what it would take to maintain that.
This weekend I was able to have some interesting discussions with both women and men about realistic expectations and the portrayal of female bodies in comic books. One lady I spoke to felt strongly that a strong woman isn't afraid to dress sexier and more provocative. She also felt that the woman in question would dress more to please herself then to send a message of seduction to the men that might see her. It was an interesting point, and one that would naturally merit both immediate opposition and insight a great deal of thought. That discussion isn't the point here, but it really made me think.
As a woman who has battled her weight my entire adult life, I have always tried to dress modestly. Ideally, I want to look strong and healthy. I want to be able to wear a tank top or sleeveless shirt on a warm day. I like to wear shorts and skirts, and I like them to be above the knee. I don't particularly like lowcut blouses, but I like some breathing room in the neck. If I looked like the lovely Jamie Eason (pictured), an Oxygen cover model, I would most likely wear a two piece swimsuit to the beach without regret, and you know what? I would do it for myself. Hmm...
It really made me ponder how attainable a healthy, attractive body is to attain. As someone who works out six days a week, and lifts weights as well as doing cardio, I know it is quite difficult. I have been battling the "last 15 pounds" for the last month and a half, and it is driving me nuts. Several of my friends this weekend said that they find themselves in that position as well. That is why when I see Selina Kyle struggling into her Catwoman outfit after giving birth to her daughter, I really appreciate the realism of it all.
I loved Digital Femme's post about what a female super hero would look like if she were a real woman. Cheryl Lynn found pictures of fit women and made them into heroes. It was an eye opener. It also made me really respect Cheryl Lynn's point of view. She reads Oxygen like I do, and has a healthy appreciation for the amount of effort put into being so toned.
I would say that my point is this: I want to see female super heroes at least look healthy. As much as they work out and have to depend on excellent physical health to fight crime, they would have similar bodies to those I see in the fitness magazines I read, or the ladies I see at the gym. This means that the arms are toned and strong, and that the legs have powerful and toned thighs that have a muscular edge. As Cheryl Lynn points out, the waist wouldn't be so thin, but more cut and defined as well.
There will always be a market that showcases women as victims. Those are not books I am interested in reading. I want to read about Wonder Woman kicking ass. I love it when Power Girl and Black Canary stand toe to toe with the guys. The fact that these ladies are chairwomen of their respective teams makes me insanely gleeful. I am not always thrilled with the outfits the ladies wear, but I usually focus more on the overall fitness and general appearance. I have no doubt that the Huntress or Black Canary could kick my ass, and I know they have worked hard to do so.
Bottom line: I want my female heroes to look strong and healthy. While I don't necessarily know if I will ever attain my personal goal of having a fit body like the models in Oxygen or Flex, I know I have a hell of a lot better chance of looking that way then I do of looking like Mary Jane, who is a super model. I will never be 5'10 and stick thin, but I can be in good shape and have a long, healthy life. That is what matters in the end.
This weekend I was able to have some interesting discussions with both women and men about realistic expectations and the portrayal of female bodies in comic books. One lady I spoke to felt strongly that a strong woman isn't afraid to dress sexier and more provocative. She also felt that the woman in question would dress more to please herself then to send a message of seduction to the men that might see her. It was an interesting point, and one that would naturally merit both immediate opposition and insight a great deal of thought. That discussion isn't the point here, but it really made me think.
As a woman who has battled her weight my entire adult life, I have always tried to dress modestly. Ideally, I want to look strong and healthy. I want to be able to wear a tank top or sleeveless shirt on a warm day. I like to wear shorts and skirts, and I like them to be above the knee. I don't particularly like lowcut blouses, but I like some breathing room in the neck. If I looked like the lovely Jamie Eason (pictured), an Oxygen cover model, I would most likely wear a two piece swimsuit to the beach without regret, and you know what? I would do it for myself. Hmm...
It really made me ponder how attainable a healthy, attractive body is to attain. As someone who works out six days a week, and lifts weights as well as doing cardio, I know it is quite difficult. I have been battling the "last 15 pounds" for the last month and a half, and it is driving me nuts. Several of my friends this weekend said that they find themselves in that position as well. That is why when I see Selina Kyle struggling into her Catwoman outfit after giving birth to her daughter, I really appreciate the realism of it all.
I loved Digital Femme's post about what a female super hero would look like if she were a real woman. Cheryl Lynn found pictures of fit women and made them into heroes. It was an eye opener. It also made me really respect Cheryl Lynn's point of view. She reads Oxygen like I do, and has a healthy appreciation for the amount of effort put into being so toned.
I would say that my point is this: I want to see female super heroes at least look healthy. As much as they work out and have to depend on excellent physical health to fight crime, they would have similar bodies to those I see in the fitness magazines I read, or the ladies I see at the gym. This means that the arms are toned and strong, and that the legs have powerful and toned thighs that have a muscular edge. As Cheryl Lynn points out, the waist wouldn't be so thin, but more cut and defined as well.
There will always be a market that showcases women as victims. Those are not books I am interested in reading. I want to read about Wonder Woman kicking ass. I love it when Power Girl and Black Canary stand toe to toe with the guys. The fact that these ladies are chairwomen of their respective teams makes me insanely gleeful. I am not always thrilled with the outfits the ladies wear, but I usually focus more on the overall fitness and general appearance. I have no doubt that the Huntress or Black Canary could kick my ass, and I know they have worked hard to do so.
Bottom line: I want my female heroes to look strong and healthy. While I don't necessarily know if I will ever attain my personal goal of having a fit body like the models in Oxygen or Flex, I know I have a hell of a lot better chance of looking that way then I do of looking like Mary Jane, who is a super model. I will never be 5'10 and stick thin, but I can be in good shape and have a long, healthy life. That is what matters in the end.
Monday, June 04, 2007
New Comics for June 6- Back from Seattle!
Jim and I made it back from Seattle today where we had a fantastic time at the Seattle Comicard Show. We stayed up way too late and had entirely too much fun, but it was well worth it! It felt a bit sad to pull into our driveway knowing that the fun was over.
At least I got to try some more Seattle style beers and eat excellent barbeque at Floyd's. Life is good!
Thank you to Quenton at QEW Publishing, Ben Hansen, Shon, Jason, Brian, Michelle, John, Shawn, Steve Miner, and several more that I am inevitably forgetting. We had a wonderful time!
In other news, here is the list of my new comics for the week!
Birds of Prey #107
Countdown #47
Detective Comics #833
Nightwing #133
Outsiders #48
Supergirl #18
Welcome to Tranquility #7
Dynamo 5 #4
Invincible #42
Witchblade Punisher #1 -pictured!
Ms. Marvel #15
Punisher #48
Uncanny X-Men #487
Lone Ranger #6
That's it! I am off to write some e-mails and get caught up on housework. Awww, the glamorous life for me!
At least I got to try some more Seattle style beers and eat excellent barbeque at Floyd's. Life is good!
Thank you to Quenton at QEW Publishing, Ben Hansen, Shon, Jason, Brian, Michelle, John, Shawn, Steve Miner, and several more that I am inevitably forgetting. We had a wonderful time!
In other news, here is the list of my new comics for the week!
Birds of Prey #107
Countdown #47
Detective Comics #833
Nightwing #133
Outsiders #48
Supergirl #18
Welcome to Tranquility #7
Dynamo 5 #4
Invincible #42
Witchblade Punisher #1 -pictured!
Ms. Marvel #15
Punisher #48
Uncanny X-Men #487
Lone Ranger #6
That's it! I am off to write some e-mails and get caught up on housework. Awww, the glamorous life for me!
Saturday, June 02, 2007
Seattle ComiCard Convention Tomorrow!
If you are in the Seattle area tomorrow, head over to Seattle Center by the Space Needle and attend the Comicard Show! The hubby and I are both going to be there, and are quite excited to see friends and new acquaintances.
There are always nice people and great deals at this show. It is a smaller show, but it also allows for a lot more opportunity to talk shop and look for books.
QEW Publishing will be there, as will several guests, including the very talented Ben Hansen. Check out his amazing work.
Today we swelter in the heat. Tomorrow we head over to one of the funnest shows around! Hope to see you there!
There are always nice people and great deals at this show. It is a smaller show, but it also allows for a lot more opportunity to talk shop and look for books.
QEW Publishing will be there, as will several guests, including the very talented Ben Hansen. Check out his amazing work.
Today we swelter in the heat. Tomorrow we head over to one of the funnest shows around! Hope to see you there!
Friday, June 01, 2007
Is This Gratuitous? Danger Girl: Body Shots #3
Well this sure made me stop and pause. A picture of a hot chick wearing only her panties luxuriating on a bed of bullets? I also note she is holding a large gun and has a passionate expression on her face. Does that mean that using her gun gets her hot? Also, is this Abbie Chase, the lead character of Danger Girl? I can't really tell because other then her lack of clothes, there is really nothing to distinguish her from some other hot blonde.
I do note that Danger Girls is a bit of a tease of a book. That gives the creative team license to use lots of double entendres while sending the ladies running around in skimpy outfits while saving the world. I anticipate that the interior could be a bit sketchy.
It is the cover I am a bit concerned with. God knows it could send a 12 year old boy into puberty by just it's mere presence.
Passionate expression. Check.
Mostly naked. Check.
Suggestive pose. Check.
Hey gang, it looks like this could be gratuitous! What do you think?
I do note that Danger Girls is a bit of a tease of a book. That gives the creative team license to use lots of double entendres while sending the ladies running around in skimpy outfits while saving the world. I anticipate that the interior could be a bit sketchy.
It is the cover I am a bit concerned with. God knows it could send a 12 year old boy into puberty by just it's mere presence.
Passionate expression. Check.
Mostly naked. Check.
Suggestive pose. Check.
Hey gang, it looks like this could be gratuitous! What do you think?
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