Comic Book Journal

A new book slated for release in November looks promising. Chris Morgan’s new comic, “Salem.” looks to be intriguing. Released by independent Boom studios, it has already been announced as certifiably cool from Previews and could be a critical darling. The book which tells the story of a colonial witch hunter in Salem could be what’s needed to fill the niche in horror comics that has been left after the success of zombie thrillers, such as 30 Days of Night has waned. Do yourself a favor and get a first printing of this gem, I have a feeling it could be a very popular comic in the future. Remember the old adage of supply and demand, it’s very possible this could be the sleeper hit of the fall. With an interesting concept, gorgeous visuals, and a Lovecraftian tone, all of elements of a hit are in this book.

Dark Horse Comics has announced a new series slated to launch November 2007 entitled “Scream.” The series looks to be a refreshing escape to a world where comics are fun again and the main character can be indentified with as an average Joe who finds himself with some unusual abilities. Where he goes, strange behaviors follow. It’s good to see a creator owned series take this approach again. This is what makes superhero comics fun, it’s also why the comics genre was so successful to begin with–just ask readers who had to opportunity to read Amazing Fantasy #15 when Spiderman was first launched. Also, it’s good to see Peter David at the helm of a comic again, one that will allow him to play in his own sandbox and create his own sandcastles. An invigorating approach to art looks to be promising with a glimpse of the cover (see photo). Bart Sears’s detail is lovingly rendered, it looks as if he’s back on top of his game. I’l keep you posted with the latest comics in your future as I’m sure ths fall will have lots of shake-ups in the industry.

I’ve recently seen a preview of Image comics’ new series, “Dust.” It looks intriguing, but what I adore most from what I’ve seen is the gorgeous artwork. Could it be this will pave the way to comic book art that’s less stylized manga and more traditional? The coloring is bold and innovative, as it serves to enhance the art rather than overshadow the pencils as most books today detract from the detail. The art itself is a lot like that of Frank Miller’s Ronin, yet it is tighter and has loads of detail which remind me of David Finch. Also the story looks to be intriguing, a futuristic war story with emotive characters, rather than caricactures with the ability to speak. I think Image will have a winner with this innovative new series. Hopefully artists will take note and remember that the basic fundamentals of storytelling must shine through any style.

Today I did something strange. I went to the local Wal-Mart to get some Band-Aids, an got the Spider-Man designs. They were actually nicely designed and it got me thinking, “what other superhero merchandise has been manufactured?” I went to ebay and despite weeding through multiple copies of Dark Horse and Stan Lee’s “So You Wanna Be a Superhero: Feedback,” issues, I found a gem. A vintage 1970’s Marvel cookbook (see photograph). I think I’ll patrolling Ebay more frequently to find some rarities. Who knows maybe one day I’ll even find that Kabuki Japanese fan I’ve been wanting. Found any rarities on the net? If so let me know.

Now that we’ve covered artists, I want to know who’s your favorite comic book writer. Without a doubt mine is Steven Seagle. A great series for fans of the macabre to check out is his revitalization of “House of Secrets.” While it had only a twenty-five issue run from Vertigo with two one-shots, it’s prose and plot while circular in nature, is one of the most addicting, expressive books I’ve ever read. The most basic element in any writng, whether graphic novels, prose or poetry is likable characters. In the series his characters are instantly likable, yet all have unique personalities and their own vulnerabilities. Seagle is not just a one-trick pony though, his work has spanned from independent titles to taking of Marvel’s merry mutants, the X-Men. And he’s still going strong. American Virgin, another terrific Vertigo series tackles the concepts of love, lust, and morality in society today. So here’s some kudos to Steven Seagle. Is there anyone you think deserves some praise?

What is it about art that moves us? The meaning we draw from lines and dots interconnected on the printed page can be powerful. The comics medium takes that power and intensifies it. Pictures and words can influence our decisions and sometimes change our lives. The advertising industry has formed around that idea, so has the publishing industry. I’m taking a bit of a poll here: who’s your favorite artist? My vote goes to Bernie Wrightson, he knows how to take that same power of pictures, match it with the right words, and make us gasp, breathless, unable to turn away, yet strangely, not wanting to. His work on Frankenstein is timeless. For me it reminds me of the intensity of Gustave Dore’s work on Paradise Lost, yet is softer so, and a quiet sadness mirrors the same emotion of the classic text. His work on Swamp Thing, gave a monster that same softness, often horrifying, yet that same sadness moved over that work also, giving the character a vulnerability that made him human. So who’s your favorite artist, what moves you to follow the words upon a printed page?

I recently checked out a preview on comicbookresources.com for Amazing Spiderman #544 discovered that apparently in a future plotline Spidey must make a choice as to who lives or dies. Who would you save Aunt May or Mary Jane? I think Marvel should just go ahead and kill off MJ. I know die hard Spidey fans would have trouble with this, but think about it. There really is nothing more to be done with the character. This could really revitalize the character, in a sense Peter Parker could finally grow up in the pages. Granted this probably won’t be a permanent death, (alternate universes, etc.) but I think in terms of story, the reprocussions would be felt for years to come. So I’m taking a poll. May or Mary? You decide.

Sex sells. Just ask Jenna Jameson. I’m excited about the release of a Jenna Jameson comic book for a couple of reasons, (you can stop your drooling now, we’re not going there). The publication of the new book from Virgin Comics can bring in Jenna fans to the title, and the possibility of new readership it always exciting. Another reason I’m glad to see this series is Christina Z. is working again. She did an impressive job with Witchblade as her storyline gave more depth to a title that could have easily been nothing more than art with no substance behind it. She humanized the character and brought light to the fact that the Witchblade was both a blessing and a curse. Also, I applaud Virgin Comics for making the premiere issue accessible to readers wanting to try a new series with a twenty-five cent price tag. You can bet that for a mere twenty-five cents I’m going to go revisit with a favorite writer, a hot blonde Shadow Hunter, and give Virgin Comics the credit it’s due for taking a risk. I can hardly wait until December for its release.

I understand your trepidation about continuing the topic of decorating, but come on, remember it’s your world you can make it what you want. That’s the beauty of not only comic books, but fiction in general. So to continue we’re going to progress along to some of the newer X-Men.

Wolverine: His sacred space would be surprisingly low key. I can see a simple oak bed in neutral colors (probably black) with low-key lighting, some Japanese decorum, and that’s pretty much it. As secretive as this mystery man is, I don’t see him letting much of his personality go wild in his space.

Storm: This goddess can control the weather, so of course the space would constantly be climate controlled. I can see nothing but luxury for Storm. I would design Storm’s room to be luxurious, yet cozy at the same time with a fireplace (though she wouldn’t need it) , lots of lighting, and perhaps a Bose system, when she decides to meditate and relax.

Those are just some of my favorites today. I know there are characters, I love and didn’t put on this list, but more often than not they’re just temporary guests in the X-Manor. I hope you enjoyed this little excursion. I’ll see you tomorrow with (hopefully) some news, and oh maybe a review (anyone seen the Dr. Strange DVD yet?)

I was going through some old magazines yesterday, and was looking at some decorating tips when I thought to myself, how would I decorate the X-Mansion? Yeah, so sue me, I’m trying to give your comic book reading a feminine touch. Today I’m going to talk about the various styles of decorating for the X-Men.

Professor X: Professor X, being arguably the most powerful mutant on earth has immaculate taste, but has no need for color. I see his master suite being extremely masculine and modern with clean lines, and a platform bed. His space is clutter free, and mostly neutral, a place to clear his head.

Cyclops and Jean Grey: I imagine it was hard for this couple to come to an agreement when it comes to designing their space. It has to be cool and comfortable. I see Jean winning the battle of the bedroom however. I would have a massive canopied bed in a neutral color, such as a crème or beige, yet with a dark wood frame, hardwood cherry floors, with matching dark wood wardrobes. I also think the pair would have an armoire for keepsakes, and photographs on their nightstand. I don’t foresee the pair sharing a closet, as they are both compulsively neat and prefer to keep their clothes separated. (Yet I do see Jean wearing one of his shirts to bed when he decides to go have a boys night).

Iceman: This original X-Man, who is desperately trying to keep his youth showing, would keep his space fun. I see a room with a simple bed but lots of throw pillow, bean bag chairs, and even a black light. Bobby Drake would be up one latest technology, and have a HDTV so he can watch, what else but the NHL championships.

Angel: This original X-Man would attempt to recapture some of his playboy status in his own space. I see an ultra-push bed with mountains of pillow with a deep colored, perhaps even velvet duvet. There is no better way to impress a certain, British/Japanese assassin. I see Warren Worthington III sipping champagne and staring out window at his incredible view of the night sky. I do think Angel would have expensive works of art, pottery, and plenty of plant life. With soft lighting and elegant décor, who wouldn’t want to retire in this Angel’s arms?

Beast: Once a scientist, always a scientist, no matter what form he’s in. I see the Beast’s suite to be full of surprises. I see the Beast’s bookshelves to be lined with research on genetics and books on mutations, the theory of evolution, and genetics. I think he would have an untraditional bed with simply just a mat on the floor to rest; after all he is a beast Still though I think he would have a poster of a smiley face on the back of his door, or maybe even a Hello Kitty poster just for effect.

That’s all for today with the original X-Men in the mansion. Tomorrow tune in for the rest of the bedrooms, and I decorate the bathrooms, MTV Cribs style.

How many of you think that J.K Rowling should breathe new life into Harry Potter with a comic book series? As Joss Whedon proved with the Buffy series (see yesterday’s blog), a former series can be successful in the mainstream marketplace. I say why not? The audience is already diverse enough, ranging from teenagers through older adults, so it would be a perfect fit for the “not just for kids anymore” niche. Also, novelists have proven they’re pretty good comic book writers as well. Steve King’s doing it with the Gunslinger series; Jodi Piccoult on Wonder Woman has practically revived the character and series from the brink of cancellation. While I’m not a fan of serialized novels with 7-8 books per series to finish a story, I think that J.K. Rowling’s work would translate well into the graphic form. Maybe there could be cool crossovers also, I can see it now–Harry Potters travels back in time and meets Robin Hood: Harry Potter and the Prince of Thieves. Hmmm. Just something to think about today.

The newest sales figures are in and it looks like Marvel has toppled DC in terms of units sold, however, the company was down in sales from the previous quarter. So what generated these sales? Marvel is still riding high from the success of their Civil War books and looking to a future for another ‘event’. DC is doing the same, their primary market success coming from the aftermath of both 52 and Infinite Crisis. In terms of raw data, though there was a surprise. Dark Horse remains just that, a dark horse, which in terms of market share gained on the big two. How did the smaller company compete with the heavy-hitters? Four words: Buffy the Vampire Slayer. The newer issues, as well as past trade paperbacks are moving due to Joss Whedon, the original creator breathing new life into the comic book. With no major events, crossovers, or variants, how does the book draw a large market share? Good writing. What Whedon has managed to do with both the television series and the comics, is know his audience. He’s also not afraid to poke fun at himself in his books, or his creation. In short, he’s managed to make comics fun again. Even though there are enough apocalypses to fill an entire graphic novel alone, Whedon has managed to have his readers empathize enough with his characters, that we are left at the end of every one of his issues slightly refreshed, but always wanting more story. That is the magic of any medium, and should be the goal of every writer; keep them coming back for more. He has also mastered the art of marketing as the television show has tied into the book and vice versa. He has managed to create his niche in the industry, with his Buffy and Angel fans, not wanting to accept the end of the story where else will they turn, to Dark Horse for their fill of the sumptuous slayer and the rest of the Scooby gang.

The early nineties trumpeted a slump in sales which almost eliminated the comic book industry as we know it. Books were not being read, the quality of art and entertaining story were on the decline. There was hope. Todd McFarlane brought new readership to Spider-Man during his run. Then he unleashed Spawn. With this title, plus other great creator-owned titles, Image could have easily generated readership and generated new sales the industry desperately needed at the time. So what went wrong? Despite generating sales in terms of deluxe variant covers, new titles, and multiple #1 titles, this wasn’t enough to save Image, or its creators from themselves. Like the proverbial Dr. Frankenstein, they were so obsessed with their creations; they did not want to share. Lawsuits and litigation filled the air with bad blood as debates raged on between creators? Was this image or name created under a work for hire principle or was it created without the rights being sold? This time period led us to other questions as well. What’s more important story or art? Can one exist without the other? What it boils down to is the industry would have been in a much better state if these creators had played nicer. Image comics could have saved the industry and revitalized a dying art, if making millions had not gotten in the way, so today I pay homage to a time when Todd McFarlane could have single handedly saved comics and Spawn could have been the anti-hero the world would embrace.

With the convention season nearing its end, those who like to dress up and parade around in superhero garb only have one thing to look forward to this year—Halloween. It’s never too early to start working on that costume which is sure to impress the pizza delivery guy. So here’s to Halloween and the top ten sexiest costumes for both men and women.

For the Super guys out there here’s a list of my personal favorite costumes:

10. Burnout—From the sleek, bright one piece to his deep blue eyes and scruffy goatee. Burnout’s costume has what it takes to make me melt.
9. Dracula– Who can dispute this classic ensemble. It has the power to transform anyone who wears it into a smooth operator.
8. Wolverine—Brown and black or yellow and black it doesn’t matter again.
With that bad boy bravado and the body to back it up, Wolverine’s outfit and attitude get him #8.
7. Vision– I know not everybody will agree with me here, but if a fan boy can stand the facial makeup for hours, he’s going to get my vote for best dressed.
6. Daredevil– Again the one piece wins. Matt Murdock almost has the whole package, good looks, a costume that shows off how hard he works, a great career as a lawyer he’s only missing one thing, his eyesight. Oh well, at least he can’t tell your shoes don’t match your purse.
5. Superman– Classic cape and tight tights. Who could ask for more?
4. Black Knight– This former Avenger could be my night in shining armor anytime. With black chain mail over bulging biceps the sexiest Avenger wins this joust.
3. Gambit– With a deep Cajun drawl and mysterious trench coat over spandex and body armor makes you wonder what else Gambit’s hiding underneath.
2. Kyle Rayner (Green Lantern) — One of the greatest costume revisions of all time. Kyle brought the Green Lantern into a new era with a tight one piece, becoming the embodiment of the green lantern symbol. Combined with dark hair and a mysterious emerald mask, it won’t take a ring for him to win my heart.
1. Conan—What is more simplistic, sexy, and classic than a bulging body and a loincloth. Dinner conversation is not necessary for this Cimmerian.

For the Super girls here’s a list of costumes sure to catch a villain (or hero):

10. Night Nurse—Classic and campy, nothing could be more simplistic a costume as a naughty nurse.
9. Scarlet Witch—With the power to bewitch even the Vision, there has to be something about red.
8. Fathom—She should have been on the cover of Swimsuit Illustrated bringing the classic bikini back.
7.Storm— A white wig and cape is all that’s needed to accentuate the goddess in this woman.
6. Ghost— It’s a sheet, that’s all. There’s nothing scary about the power to attract.
5. Goblin Queen—A revealing costume, a take no prisoners attitude, along with that fierce red hair, that’s all it takes.
4. Vampirella—Dracula’s female counterpart, that’s pin up beauty is still sexy by today’s standards. Still I wonder, what happened to the other half of her costume?
3. Wonder Woman—Those red boots inspire fantasies even today, an iconic classic look, and a wonder bra make this classic costume the third sexiest.
2. White Queen—Similar to Ghost, nothing beats simplicity for sexy. With varieties of skin revealing white outfits, to complete her white hair, she makes white in vogue and scintillating at the same time.
1. Zantanna—From fishnets to the top hat, this feisty magician will have you putting on the ritz to be her magician’s assistant.

So what about mine for this Halloween I’m not sure yet, I guess you’ll have to wait and see