Author: R.J. Bowman

Marvel’s Agents of S.H.I.E.L.D. Needs to Be Biggest Show in Fall Season

May. 13 News, TV & Movies no comments

Simply put – Marvel needs to inundate the market with information and teasers about Marvel’s Agents of S.H.I.E.L.D. In the upcoming months, we need to be eating, sleeping, and breathing the show. The entertainment company needs to work closely with ABC to make sure this show is a ratings giant before the first episode even airs. Marvel needs this to work to stay on top.

Marvel's Agents of S.H.I.E.L.D. does have a cool logo

Marvel’s Agents of S.H.I.E.L.D. does have a cool logo

Marvel’s Agents of S.H.I.E.L.D. Needs to be a List-Topper

Ever summer, all of the major entertainment news outlets produce their own “Most Anticipated” or “Most Awaited” lists out of the upcoming fall shows. Marvel and ABC need to make sure Marvel’s Agents of S.H.I.E.L.D. tops every single one of those lists. It needs to be the most important show coming out next season or both companies will have failed.

How Can Marvel and ABC Do It?

Right now, the buzz about Marvel’s Agents of S.H.I.E.L.D. is high in the comic book community, but it needs to be the buzz in all communities. Even though the two companies missed the initial boat with advertising the show during Iron Man 3, they can still catch up by running the clips of the show during the trailers for upcoming movies. Iron Man 3 is still the top movie in the world and Marvel and ABC need to make sure they cash in on the publicity track for the upcoming show.

Easy Marketing

Of course, we will have a strong role in making sure Marvel’s Agents of S.H.I.E.L.D. gains buzz as many of us will be talking about the show throughout the summer. Comic book blogs and news sites will give a constant stream of information, but that is easy publicity. I am sure there will be promotions for the show in upcoming issues of Marvel titles, but the two companies are going to have to think outside of the traditional box to get this show in the forefront of everyone’s mind.

Marvel’s Agents of S.H.I.E.L.D. and Thinking Outside the Box

In-comic or in-store advertising for Marvel’s Agents of S.H.I.E.L.D. is an important step, but the companies are also going to have to look at other avenues of advertisement as well. Marvel advertised Age of Ultron on Sirius Radio which surprised many of us and opened our eyes to another potential stream of advertising. The company has also advertised their movies on the sides of buses and at bus stops across the country. The company needs to advertise this show as if it were an upcoming movie if it wants to make a huge impact on the TV market.

Why Marvel’s Agents of S.H.I.E.L.D. is Important on TV

Image has a strong foothold in the primetime TV market with The Walking Dead. DC Comics has a foothold with Arrow, albeit much smaller than Image’s. Marvel needs to make a major impact in an attempt to show its strength and to try to snatch the all-important advertising dollars available. If Marvel’s Agents of S.H.I.E.L.D. is a major hit, we should all expect more TV shows with the Marvel logo in primetime in the near future.

Why Marvel’s Agents of S.H.I.E.L.D. is so Important in Comic Book Market

I have discussed how Marvel and DC Comics are losing market share right now to Image, IDW, and the smaller companies. The Walking Dead has brought tons of people into comic book stores across the country who traditionally would have avoided reading comics. These fans want to learn what the comic is about and how the comic led to the hit show. Marvel can potentially harness the same type of lightning with Marvel’s Agents of S.H.I.E.L.D. and resurrect the sales numbers which have fallen in recent months. Marvel needs Marvel’s Agents of S.H.I.E.L.D. to be a leader to solidify the company’s future as the leader in the comic book industry.

The Rising Tide site

Impressions of Marvel’s Agents of S.H.I.E.L.D. Announcement

May. 11 News, TV & Movies no comments

So ABC is “officially” moving forward with Marvel’s Agents of S.H.I.E.L.D. Of course, there are some impressions I have off of the official announcement, the name of the show, the makeup of the team, and a few other impressions.

Is Marvel's Agents of S.H.I.E.L.D. a good enough representation?

Is Marvel’s Agents of S.H.I.E.L.D. a good enough representation?

First, the official announcement if you have not read it yet:

Clark Gregg reprises his role of Agent Phil Coulson from Marvel’s feature films as he assembles a small, highly select group of Agents from the worldwide law-enforcement organization known as S.H.I.E.L.D. Together they investigate the new, the strange, and the unknown across the globe, protecting the ordinary from the extraordinary. Coulson’s team consists of Agent Grant Ward (Brett Dalton), highly trained in combat and espionage, Agent Melinda May (Ming-Na Wen) expert pilot and martial artist, Agent Leo Fitz (Iain De Caestecker); brilliant engineer and Agent Jemma Simmons (Elizabeth Henstridge) genius bio-chemist. Joining them on their journey into mystery is new recruit and computer hacker Skye (Chloe Bennet).

From Executive Producers Joss Whedon (“Marvel’s The Avengers,” ”Buffy the Vampire Slayer”); Jed Whedon & Maurissa Tancharoen, “Marvel’s Agents of S.H.I.E.L.D.” pilot co-writers (“Dollhouse,” “Dr.Horrible’s Sing-Along Blog”); Jeffrey Bell (“Angel,” “Alias”); and Jeph Loeb (“Smallville,” “Lost,” “Heroes”) comes Marvel’s first TV series.  “Marvel’s Agents of S.H.I.E.L.D.” is produced by ABC Studios and Marvel Television.

The Official Announcement for Marvel’s Agents of S.H.I.E.L.D.

It was smart for Marvel and ABC to start out the announcement with the mention of how Clark Gregg is coming back to lead the team. A release like this is going to gain more note if something or someone people are familiar with leads. I also like the way the announcement points out how S.H.I.E.L.D. is a worldwide law-enforcement organization as I was concerned about ABC making S.H.I.E.L.D. into a U.S.-only organization. Breaking down the specialties of each of the characters is also helpful.

Marvel's Agents of S.H.I.E.L.D. does have a cool logo

Marvel’s Agents of S.H.I.E.L.D. does have a cool logo

The Name: Marvel’s Agents of S.H.I.E.L.D.

First off, you knew Marvel would have to have its name in the title. That should really go without mention. Second, Marvel’s Agents of S.H.I.E.L.D. does sound better than simply S.H.I.E.L.D. as the focus of the show will be on the agents and not on the organization itself.

The Makeup of Marvel’s Agent of S.H.I.E.L.D.

Is this show partially run by Robert Kirkman? We all know that Nick Fury is black, but there can’t be another African-American on the team? Are they running with Kirkman’s unsung rule of only having one black male or black female at a time in connection with a project? Will Fury have to die to add more diversity to the team? Of course, the lack of any clear ethnic presence on the team outside of Ming-Na Wen is disturbing.

In today’s society, it is a foregone conclusion that teams have to be diversified, but this team is far from diversified on an ethnic level. While I am not saying the show is required to have people of various ethnic descents, I do want to point out how many of us in the comic book industry would prefer to move away from the preconception that all comic book readers are white males. Having a mostly white team does not bode well for breaking the misconception or spreading out to a wider market base.

Where Marvel’s Agents of S.H.I.E.L.D. Team Falls Short for Storytelling

We have the computer hacker, engineer, biochemist, blah blah blah…where is the otherworldly? Marvel has pigeonholed this team into not taking on cases of the supernatural or sorcerous? Nobody on the team has an obvious tie to space (like an astronaut), so Marvel might be tying its one hands when it comes to cosmic storytelling on the show. Just having one team member with some type of otherworldly ties would give Marvel more room to deal with characters outside of the normal human or slightly superhuman.

Of course, changes could be made into the first season to incorporate some of the shortcomings I have pointed out. I personal want to see Marvel’s Agents of S.H.I.E.L.D. take off and become a hit show. The creators can send us down the right path, but only time and viewers will tell if we will walk it, and for how long.

Scare Bears on 5/9/2013 Episode of Hardcore Pawn!

May. 09 Detroit Area Comic Book Store no comments
Scare Bears at our Detroit comic book store

Scare Bears at our Detroit comic book store

If you happen to catch the episode of Hardcore Pawn airing on 5/9/2013, you will see the on-screen premiere of Scare Bears. Remember, Wonderworld Comics is the exclusive Detroit area retailer for Scare Bears so if you hear your friends talking about wanting to own one, send them our way.

Scare Bears were recently featured at Motor City Nightmares and made a (legitimate) killing. Word about these devilish bears is spreading and we are happy our good friend Jay Langley is finding success. We hope he gains as much success as possible with his frightful creations.

Did You Catch Dennis Barger and the Silver Surfer on Hardcore Pawn?

May. 09 Detroit Area Comic Book Store, News no comments

All of us at Wonderworld Comics were happy to see the episode of Hardcoare Pawn featuring Dennis Barger and the Silver Surfer. The episode ended the mystery surrounding the Silver Surfer’s presence. I would like to take a moment to give you a little bit of the backstory of the episode.

Dennis Barger with the cast of Hardcore Pawn and the Silver Surfer

Dennis Barger with the cast of Hardcore Pawn and the Silver Surfer

First Contact

The producers of Hardcore Pawn contacted Dennis because of his presence in the local geek community to see if he had any items they could feature on the show. They knew Dennis is a leading expert in the area on pop culture and comics and that his personality would make him a perfect fit for the show. Dennis informed them of a few items we had in the store and warehouse which might interest them, and the decision was made to work out a deal with the Silver Surfer which has decorated the front window of our Detroit area comic book store (in Taylor) for five years.

What Happened on Hardcore Pawn?

Dennis met with Seth and Ashley in American Jewelry and Loan on Hardcore Pawn about selling them the Silver Surfer from our front window. Tough negotiations went back and forth until Dennis was ready to walk out the door without making a deal. Les stepped in and offered Dennis more money and saved the deal before Dennis made it to the front of the shop.

Big Question – Is it Scripted?

I know you are wondering if the entire situation on Hardcore Pawn was scripted. The only part previously discussed was roughly how much Dennis wanted for the Silver Surfer for the producer’s sake. Dennis was not handed a script or prompted on what he should say.

How Can I See the Silver Surfer Episode of Hardcore Pawn?

Of course you could wait for the episode to rerun, or you could check it out on OnDemand or through whichever video on demand service you use. You can also check it out on TruTV’s website by following this link. You can even see a shortened version of Dennis’ spot on Hardcore Pawn with the Silver Surfer here.

What Now?

Instead of having the Silver Surfer in our window now, we are now going to have a rotating front window display. Currently, the window is decorated with various toys and two pieces of artwork by Rock and Roll Speed Painter Dave Santia. There will be something else very special in the window very soon.

Warning!

I watched the episode on OnDemand in HD. At one point, there was a close-up of Dennis’ face. My 5-year-old daughter ran screaming from the room yelling “Too much Dennis! Too much Dennis! He is Big Brother!” (yes, my daughter does know Orwell). Just be careful because HD Dennis might scare small children.

Interview with Big Dog Ink’s Kimberly Hutchison About Women in Comic Book Industry

May. 09 Comic Book Collecting, News Comments Off on Interview with Big Dog Ink’s Kimberly Hutchison About Women in Comic Book Industry

Kimberly Hutchison is one of the co-owners of Big Dog Ink and is a rarity in the most male-dominated market of comic book publishers. I am honored to have been granted her first interview.

Big Dog Ink

Big Dog Ink

Larry Poupard: Do you face an uphill battle in the “old boys club” of the comic book industry?

Kimberly Hutchison: There is a certain lack of people taking a woman seriously, I suppose, but once they begin talking to you, they take you more seriously as a publisher. Of course, that is still not very much. I think that is a general consensus among many in the industry where they are more interested in “What you can do for me.” Until the mood changes among other publishers, that is going to remain the same for smaller publishers.

I personally seem to get overlooked more, so that is why I defer much of the business to Tom [her husband and the other co-owner of Big Dog Ink]. With Tom, he is male, and he is more of what everybody expects as the head of the company. We put him out there and he tends to be the one people see.

Larry Poupard: As a woman, what types of preconceptions do you face with potential fans when you are standing behind the booth at shows and conventions?

Kimberly Hutchison: This question is perfect. I think the best way to answer this is to describe an interaction I had with a fan about a month ago. We were at a small show and signed up with some other independent creators and someone with a few long boxes of comics.

A gentleman walks by and it was just Tom and I at the booth at the time. He saw me and did a double take before walking back.

He said, “So, you the artist’s girlfriend?”

I kind of rolled my eyes and said, “Nope.”

Then he said, “Sooo, you are the helper?”

“Nope”

I forget about what else he asked me, but it was equally condescending. It was something along the lines of being a female behind the table. Then he said, “What does a pretty young thing like you have to do with comic books?” I smiled and said, “Oh, I own the company.” He replied with, “Oh, well then. These [books] are nice looking,” and he walked away obviously feeling like a moron.

That is the general tendency, though. Usually when I am talking to fans they are really nice. Sometimes, though, I am asked what I do, or who I am married to. I find myself say, “Well, actually, I own the place.” I explain how I try to make sure everything runs smoothly in background. Sometimes they are surprised because I am a woman, but I sometimes get the reaction like I got from the gentleman at the show.

Larry Poupard: How do you think the industry would differ if there were more females in the front offices? [Diane Nelson is the president of DC Comics, but one or two do not equal equality]

Kimberly Hutchison: That is a hard question because I don’t know what we [Big Dog Ink] would do differently if we had a male CEO in charge of the company. I could see women being given more of an opportunity to create and publish in comics. For Big Dog Ink, Tom has a lot of say in female creators and he pushes for them too. Regardless of who comes through the door, if the person has talent and is good at art and is a good writer, you will get an opportunity.

I think we work with a lot of women in the company. As compared to men, I would have to do a count, but I think it is close to equal if not slightly tilting more on the women’s side. I think this is something which would change with more women in power.

I would love to see more female writers out there. I am really not sure why there are not more [female writers in the comic book industry]. In the literary world, there tends to be more female literary writers than male. For some reason that does not translate well to our field, and I don’t know why. I think more women in power could make that shift happen. I personally would love to see that happen as I would love to work with more female writers and read more. I think we [Big Dog Ink] are very good, though, at looking at all types of talent.

Larry Poupard: Do you think the problem resides in women not attempting to get their foot in the industry door, are they being overlooked, or that the “old boys club” just won’t allow them in?

Kimberly Hutchison: I think that there are so many male creators in the industry that many female writers are artists look at the industry as being a guy’s thing. I think right now more women are being invited in and back in as they are being show that these comics are for women as well. I think we are finding a new generation of readers with more women who are becoming readers. That is bringing them more into creative aspects. They are going to want to make comics and they are starting to pitch more.

I don’t like talking negatively about other companies. I think it is more a societal thing to discount women. I remember being at a show and hearing a certain comment. I applaud our creators for not saying anything to this gentleman.

We [Big Dog Ink] were at Wizard World Chicago last year and we had four artists with us. Three of them were women. I was talking to a gentleman who was buying a book and I told him that “We have some great artists here who are taking requests for commissions. Feel free to talk to them about that or anything else you might like.” He answered with “Oh, I am very picky about the art I have created for me from  my women artists.” It was right in front of the artists. We said “Bless your heart” and let him go on his merry way.

I think the comic book industry can make women feel like they are silenced and they might want to contribute in some way. I still think the societal aspect comes into play. I don’t have a psychology degree so I don’t know where to start to break it down but there is still a barrier to entry.

Larry Poupard: Three years ago, a few women started “Women in Horror Recognition Month” as a way to encourage more women to look at creative aspects in horror. The goal was to stop the mentality that women should only be scream queens in horror movies. Do you believe the comic book industry needs a similar organized push or do you believe the current trends will continue on their own and provide more opportunities for women?

Kimberly Hutchison: I have not seen the numbers myself. I know that there are sites which track the number of minority creators and I believe they also track the number of women. The actual stats are not published and I believe the sites try to build these stats on their own by using their best guesses based on names. Since we have a gentleman who works here [Big Dog Ink] by the name of Shannon and a gentleman who worked here Alison, I can see how the statistics might be wrong if they are simply going by names. It would be pulling teeth to get a publisher to actually give up that information.

Just from working at shows and convention, I can tell you that most of the women I see in artists alley on a regular basis are pigeonholed into the fantasy genre. There are definitely other representations which are lost with artists and writers who work in other genres. It [an organized push for more females in the industry] is definitely something I would encourage.

Madame Xanadu, I believe the last volume to come out, had all female artists involved in the project. The originalregular artists, whose art got me interested in the book in the first place, was a woman. I did not even realize that until I was part of the way in. That was a very notable endeavor. I believe Gail Simone is doing the same thing right now with Red Sonja.

I am all for a push. A dedicated month or a single event might be hard, but I think projects like those I mentioned should be encouraged by publishers. They help to show women on an equal basis.

To learn more about Big Dog Ink, please follow this link.

Bruce Boxleitner’s Lantern City: An Interview with the Creators

May. 09 News, TV & Movies no comments

Bruce Boxleitner’s Lantern City is a new TV show being worked on by Bruce Boxleitner (who you might know from Tron, Scarecrow & Mrs. King, and Babylon 5), Trevor Crafts (Executive Producer), and Matthew James Daley (Writer). It is a stempunk story which is sure to get genre fans popping. A Lantern City graphic novel is also being worked on. I had the opportunity to sit down at C2E2 with the three gentlemen in charge of the project.

From left - Mathew James Delay, Bruce Boxleitner, Larry Poupard, and Trevor Crafts. We discussed Bruce Boxleitner's Lantern City at C2E2.

From left – Mathew James Daley, Bruce Boxleitner, Larry Poupard, and Trevor Crafts. We discussed Bruce Boxleitner’s Lantern City at C2E2.

Larry Poupard: Why did you pursue the steampunk genre for Lantern City?

Trevor Crafts: I think that one of the things we found interesting about the steampunk genre is that we found a huge tidal wave of people who were building and making and creating. I have always been a fan of historical fiction and I felt it was something which was right on the cutting edge right now and nobody had really cracked the code. Nobody had figured out how to do something which would be a really dynamic show or film which really embraced the steampunk ideals.

So we decided to go about it in exactly the opposite direction with Lantern City than what people usually do with. We decided to engage the fan base first and talk to the steampunk community about what they wanted in a show. We wanted to get the ideal of the visual look and the feal. That was one of the jumping-off point. I had the idea of Lantern City and brought Bruce Boxleitner in during the very early stages. This composed most of our very early conversations in just seeing what this group of people had done and knowing this was the group we wanted to engage with.

Bruce Boxleitner: I was always fascinated by it [steampunk] but I just didn’t know what it was called. Steampunk? I thought “What does that mean? Steampunk?” I do not think that there is one definite definiation. I think ours is just going to be an interpretation. I think Hollywood has used it by dancing around it with League or Extraordinary Gentlemen and Wild Wild West. I think ours is going to be a unique world which is going to blend all interpretations and people who really love stempunk are going to see something they like in Lantern City.

Larry Poupard: The write-ups so far about Lantern City talk about how the land is ruled by a totalitarian family. Many steampunk stories incorporate political commentaries about totalitarianism, fascism, or other types of fringe political beliefs. Is political commentary going to be a major talking point for Lantern City or is it simply going to play in the background?

Matthew James Daley: It is impossible for that [political commentary] to play in the background of Lantern City because it is too prevalent in the world we created. Now we are not going to spend half of every episode talking about politics around a parlor. The politics of this world, which is a totalitarian world, runs so deeply in everyone from the top to the bottom. We did not set out to make political statements in Lantern City, it is in our world and it needs to be addressed in every episode more through the characters and through the action.

Trevor Crafts: One thing I would like to add to that is that Matt has created this wonderful three-tiered society. The Grey Empire is the top tier. The “worker class” is at the next tier down and they basically make and function. Now we find out there is this growing underground where you live entirely on your own without any rules and it is a very violent place. You can starve to death or die very quickly in this part of Lantern City.

Going back to your first question, I think the society in Lantern City is interesting because we can showcase all of the different styles of steampunk within each of those three strata of society where all of that political pulling and pushing happens.

Matthew James Daley: With the underground, the main question you would ask yourself if you fled from society to live there is “What price is my freedom?” because every day is a battle to survive. You are not under the federal regime, but you can’t trust anyone who says they have your back. Even for the people organizing and running it, it is a very dangerous place but very exciting too.

Bruce Boxleitner: We can definitely reflect on current stories. Science fiction has always been very good in that way because you can comment on modern society without slamming a message in your head about how we are taking a side. This Lantern City is a world unto itself but I believe we can reflect modern anxieties without an issue.

Matthew James Daley: The aspects we look at such as the loss of freedom and what you are willing to give up are key in Lantern City. That [giving up for freedom] is one of the central questions of the show.

Bruce Boxleitner: You security would be a big thing. In all strata in society, people have to wonder how secure they are in that particular strata. This particular question is a movement in all societies throughout the years. Not just in the modern, but during Bolshevism and other times as well.

Larry Poupard: Most of the people you have signed for the show so far have worked on science fiction in the past. Did you go after these actors specifically to share in their fan bases or because they might have more of an open mind to use for understanding the world of Lantern City? Is it an amalgamation of the two?

Trevor Crafts: It is definitely an amalgamation of the two. I was thinking from the very beginning about who I would cast in the various roles for Lantern City, and there are still very many left to fill. Matt built a world in which there is over forty different characters that all intertwine together.

I think, for me, there is a unique aspect of television where you can innately understand when people are really working well together. The group of people we started to put together for Lantern City has people who already know each other and have camaraderie. You are right, these people have a base understand of the genre and a love for the genre which comes through.

That is one of the reasons why Firefly was so popular. It was a good show, but there was this “perfection” in casting where you had this group of people who you learned to love or hate depending on their character. That is something we are trying to replicate. We want to have that group…that cast that loves going to work every day and loves what they do because that is going to come through in their performances. They are all genre fans, and they have genre fan bases so that is all factors in.

Matthew James Daley: They have not had any genre-based questions and questions about genre elements, which is great, because I was expecting to have to explain things. That is just great. They got it, especially John…

Bruce Boxleitner: John Ryes-Davies. I originally met him in London. I worked with him back on Scarecrow & Mrs. King back in 1984 so I did have a small acquaintance with him. We met up with him at Dragon Con and we gave him a script. He wrote us, I don’t know how many pages.

Trevor Crafts: He came up to you first, didn’t he? He said “I heard about this new show you are working on.”

Bruce Boxleitner: Yes, he was dressed very nicely and was a proper British gentleman. Here is was in the hot summer sun in Atlanta in a full suit, and he was great. I want this to be gotten straight…he came to us. Most of the actors have done so including, just recently, Gigi [Edgley from Farscape].

I am the only one at this table who has been in a sci-fi ensemble, and I know that is what I want to relive again. Maybe from a different aspect. During the best years of Babylon 5 we had the best cast. To find that is like lightning in a bottle. I think that when we have actors from this genre, there is identification right away with them from the audience. We don’t have to introduce them necessarily before or during Lantern City. There will be a couple we might have to, but the audience will get it right away with Lantern City. We are targeting an audience right now, and they will bring all the others in with them. My experience at Babylon 5 is what turned me on to this project when Trevor brought it to me. I want to go through this again.

Larry Poupard: You stated that you took this project to the fans first. How are you preparing yourself to deal with a fan base which can get very technical about a type of technology which has never truly existed?

[All three men laugh]

Bruce Boxleitner: Exactly!

Matthew James Daley: I think with where we are right now in production I fell – and I have always felt this way and am very specific about this – is that there has to be a blending of the real and the created. By “the real,” I mean real sets and the Lantern Guard in Lantern City needs to be real and touchable. We have built some of those sets and some of those costumes already. Things like the skyline can be CGI.

Somebody asked us when we were building the plan if Lantern City was just going to be a CGI show. To some extent, what show is not a CGI show these days? If you think about a show like Star Trek or Babylon 5, there were elements which were CGI-created, but there were aspects of “the real” there. Some great movies like District 9 have CGI, but there is a lot of “the real.” We have made many great pieces and augmented them.

What that means for production, where are we going to go for production? There is a lot of great production happening in Eastern Europe where wider spaces are a little bit more attainable. Like in Dune, we will build as much as we can for “the real,” and then we can simply augment with CGI.

Bruce Boxleitner: What is great is that we have the technology now to help us create these worlds. We can make these cityscapes now. Years ago, it would have been so expensive; a project like Lantern City would have never gotten off the ground.

You can learn more about Bruce Boxleitner’s Lantern City by following this link to its official site.

Personally, I am looking forward to seeing more about Lantern City in the near future.

Marvel’s Market Share is Shrinking and Should Not

May. 09 Comic Book Collecting, News no comments

Marvel’s market share is decreasing at an alarming rate. Many sites are talking about how DC Comics has slid under 30% of the market and how Image and IDW are gaining market share each month. I see the bigger story as the loss of Marvel’s market share with what the publishing company is putting out right now and what is being planned for the near future.

Marvel's market share is dropping

Marvel’s market share is dropping

The Numbers

Marvel’s market share (Retail) dropped about 2.1% between March and April and Unit Market Share dropped exactly 2%. In March, Marvel had 7 titles in the Diamond Industry Statistics Top 10 and had 5 in April. With all that Marvel has going on, we should not even be worrying about Marvel’s market share but we should.

What is Going On?

Marvel NOW is still young and there is a strong chance people are beginning to lose interest in the “reorganization of titles which is not a rebooting.” We are in the Age of Ultron and the X titles are building up to a possible all-out war between the X-Men factions. Guardians of the Galaxy started recently as a build-up to the full return of Thanos and their own movie. As I am writing this, Iron Man 3 is the top movie in the world. Strong storylines in The Amazing Spider-Man, New Avengers, and other titles should be bringing in more reads every week.

Why is Marvel Losing?

While it is too early to tell for sure, I believe people are turning away from the Big 2 in droves for various reasons. I have heard readers talk about how they are upset by all of the recent crossovers and drawn-out by the idea of having to pick up twenty extra issues over a few months to finish one storyline. Others find themselves being pulled towards the smaller press titles which are taking off. I have also heard readers say they just need something new and Marvel and DC Comics represent the “old” which these particular readers are tired of.

Looking Back

Of course, if we look back at December 2012, Marvel was holding on to a 33.4% market share, which is lower than the 37.95% they held in April. Marvel should be doing better right now, though, than they are. If Marvel’s market share continues to slip, stress levels will rise as the industry giant falls in the same boat as DC Comics. In business, once market share begins to downward trend, massive changes are made in the offices and in production. I will not speculate on what types of changes, but Marvel needs to get its act together or it will be competing stronger with Image and IDW in the very near future.

Thoughts on DC Entertainment Essential Graphic Novels and Chronology

May. 08 Comic Book Collecting, News Comments Off on Thoughts on DC Entertainment Essential Graphic Novels and Chronology

Today, the DC Entertainment Essential Graphic Novels and Chronology 2013 #1 is released in stores across the country. I am sure this book is going to take some heat from both casual readers and die-hard collectors, but I have a soft side for the publication. Before (and after) you judge the DC Entertainment Essential Graphic Novels and Chronology, think about these points.

DC Entertainment Essential Graphic Novels and Chronology

DC Entertainment Essential Graphic Novels and Chronology

Price of DC Entertainment Essential Graphic Novels and Chronology

If you are a creator or executive for DC Comics, please skip over this section and go to the next one. I know some of you read this site and some things should be kept from you.

It is free! How can you argue with free? In all honesty, I would have paid $5.99 or more for the DC Entertainment Essential Graphic Novels and Chronology as it is something I have been hoping for. I will continue to hope that Marvel will produce a companion like this for their titles.

Where Your Anger Resides

If you find yourself angry at this publication, figure out where your anger resides. Are you upset that a particular graphic novel was not on the list [read – Gotham by Gaslight] or that a particular character you really like was overlooked [read – no love for Aquaman]? Are you upset that the book appears to be as heavy with new titles as with classic titles [read – exactly what I just wrote]? Does it really matter in the end?

What DC Needed to Do

DC Comics killed multiple birds with only one stone. We have wanted an updated listing of the top graphic novels and the DC Entertainment Essential Graphic Novels and Chronology delivers that. We wanted a suggested reading order and the DC Entertainment Essential Graphic Novels and Chronology delivers that. DC Comics wants to regain at least some of their lost market share. They are taking a step to make up for some of those losses in the form of the graphic novel. We have wanted the company to focus on improvement, and that is what they are doing here.

Remember “Suggested”

Remember, the DC Entertainment Essential Graphic Novels and Chronology is full of suggestions from the company. This is not a Bible which we have to follow and it is not something set in stone which future generations are going to believe are the only options for their reading. The 128 page book delivers suggestions to us and it is up to us to take them or not.

Negative Preconceptions About Comic Book Readers – [Censored] ‘Em

May. 08 Comic Book Collecting Comments Off on Negative Preconceptions About Comic Book Readers – [Censored] ‘Em

It still surprises me that in today’s society people still have negative preconceptions about comic book readers. It does not make sense to me how many people still believe comic book readers cannot let go of their childhood or that comics are only for children. I can’t wait until the day we can say that the negative preconceptions of comic book readers have gone away. I have to tell you about the conversation I had with a particular [Censored] late last night.

This content is censored.

This content is censored.

The Situation

Last night, I found myself sitting in the baggage claim at Metro Airport waiting for my brother and sister-in-law to land. I had an hour to blow, so I pulled some comics out of my backpack. A man sitting a few seats away said “Hey, aren’t you too damn old to read comics?” At first I thought he was joking until I realized the look on his face was serious. He continued with “My kids gave up comics in their teens. Isn’t it time you did the same and grow up?” I not only found myself dealing with someone with negative preconceptions of comic book readers, I found myself dealing with a complete [Censored].

My Reply

Astonished, I tried to pull my composure together quickly and asked him “What is the top movie in the world right now?” He answered by blurting “Who the [Censored] cares? I know it is Iron Man but that does not justify an adult reading comics.” “So, let me wrap my mind around this,” I responded, “millions of people can go see a movie about a man flying around in a super suit, but reading about it is childish?” He then went on a [Censored] diatribe about there being a difference between reading books with tons of pictures and reading a novel. He tossed out all of the typical negative preconceptions about comic book readers.

The Final Response

I grabbed one of the comics in my bag so he could see the difference between comics now, and the comics he grew up with. I showed him how comics are more grown and mature than they were twenty years ago when his children would have been reading. I told him about recent storylines about the murder of a child (Damian Wayne), insanity, and about how characters have to deal with more than just baddies in the modern comics. While I did not win him over to reading comics, at least I shut him the [Censored] up for five minutes until it was time for his baggage to arrive.

Keeping My Cool

It was difficult for me to keep my cool with this particular [Censored] and his negative preconceptions of comic book readers. I decided to leave my anger for this article. I decided to leave it for the [Censored] preps who think they can talk to me about football simply because I have a Lions hat on but think there is something wrong with me when I talk to them about comics when they are wearing a shirt from “The Avengers.” I saved my anger for the people who think they can relate to our subculture because they [Censored] watch The Big Bang Theory. I will save my anger for the next person who brings up his or her negative preconceptions about comic book readers when I am trying to read a [Censored] comic book. I will unleash my anger the next time a person believes the preconceived “truths” from 25 years ago hold true today. [Censored]! Either accept our subculture or shut the [Censored] up!

Batman and Red Hood #20 is My Pick of the Week – Spoiler Free!

May. 08 Comics, News no comments

Batman and Red Hood #20 comes out today and I highly suggest picking it up even if you are not a fan of the Dark Knight. There are aspects of this issue which reflect the darkest Batman stories ever and it is sure to become a classic issue we talk about for many years to come. While I do not want to ruin the story for you, I do want to say that as a father, I can relate more to the Death of Damian storyline than any other Batman story I have ever read and Batman and Red Hood #20 is an integral part of the story we are experiencing right now.

Batman and Red Hood #20

Batman and Red Hood #20

Disclaimer About This Posting on Batman and Red Hood #20

This is not a spoiler article. The points I am going to write about from the issue will be general (with the exception of one sentence). To this point, I have been able to avoid using this site to spoil stories for readers and I do not want to start running spoilers on current issues now. If you want to read everything that happens in Batman and Red Hood #20, I am sure there are at least a dozen sites running the complete story this morning.

What You Should Know About Batman and Red Hood #20

Essentially, what you need to know about Batman and Red Hood #20 could already be assumed from the title and from what has already been assumed about the progression of the story. Yes, Carrie Kelley is in the issue but that is not important to the overall story. Red Hood, though, is crucial.

Relating to Batman and Red Hood #20

I have been a Batman fan my entire life and have read hundreds (if not thousands) of his stories over the years. I have never been able to relate deeply to Batman or Bruce Wayne until now. As a father, my worst fears would revolve around something happening to my daughter. In Batman and Red Hood #20, our favorite caped crusader goes to more of an extreme than he has so far to displace his anger at the loss of Damian and goes to a darker extreme than he did when he consulted Frankenstein about bringing Damian back from the dead.

The Most Important Line in Batman and Red Hood #20

“Because I am seeing red” is a key line in the issue and a key line in Batman’s rage about what happened to his son. Batman is not able to deal with the death and is filled with a level of anger few writers will ever experience writing about. Without telling where the line is used in the issue, we have to wonder if Batman is seeing red because of the death of his son or because he was not able to save him.

One More Step in Batman and Red Robin #20

As I stated before, I know my greatest fear is something happening to my daughter. In this issue, Batman continues to lash out at those he cares about. I am sure (though I hate to admit it) I would end up lashing out if I lost a child and have to commend Peter Tomasi for including this common step in the healing process which is often forgotten.

There are workers in our Detroit area comic book store which have picks of the week. Even though Constantine, Batman, and Suicide Squad came out this week, I would have to name Batman and Red Hood #20 as my Pick of the Week. I highly suggested picking it up and seeing (if you are a parent) how you relate differently to Batman and Bruce Wayne after reading it.

The Walking Dead Season 4: Ignored Issues?

May. 07 News, TV & Movies no comments

There are some interesting issues presented in the storyline of The Walking Dead Season 4 which many fans and followers appear to have overlooked as talk about the new season is either avoiding the issues listed below or people have not thought of them. These are important changes which the creators have to pay attention to.

The Governor will still stalk in The Walking Dead Season 4

The Governor will still stalk in The Walking Dead Season 4

The Obvious Issues in The Walking Dead Season 4

Most people are talking about the schism happening between Rick and Carl or how The Governor becomes a wild card now in the show. Fans are looking at the issues which will face those in the prison now that there are more mouths to feed. There are many other issues the creators have to face.

The Extra Supplies in The Walking Dead Season 4

Fans should be celebrating a potential aspect of The Walking Dead Season 4 because Rick and his crew have the opportunity to raid Woodbury for supplies. If the creators don’t take a look at all Rick the survivors can take out of Woodbury, it would be a missed opportunity for us all. Remember, Woodbury had military vehicles, weapons, food, tools, clothing, and other extras such as comfortable beds and furniture. All of this can be moved to the more-secure prison. If the survivors start complaining about not having supplies, the creators have underestimated the characters who would comb through Woodbury and the fans.

The Nighttime Worry in The Walking Dead Season 4

While there was always a potential for someone to simply die in the middle of the night and start eating others, it is more so with the number of elderly people in the new season. If this is not addressed, it would be a bad move for the creators. There are some interesting scenes which could happen if this potential issue is explored correctly.

Tyreese / Daryl Power Struggle in The Walking Dead Season 4?

There is the chance for there to be a power struggle between Daryl and Tyreese. Of course, with Tyreese taking a co-starring role now, time will have to be taken away from someone else. Even if there is not a struggle in the storyline between the two characters, fans are sure to struggle with potentially losing “Daryl time.”

The Walking Dead Season 4 poses to be a rollercoaster ride for fans. Hopefully, though, the potential issues mentioned above will be addressed by the creators in an attempt to make The Walking Dead Season 4 the best season so far.

Visit our Walking Dead page on Amazon

Potential Issues with a Black Panther Movie

May. 06 TV & Movies Comments Off on Potential Issues with a Black Panther Movie

Rumors have circulated about a Black Panther movie for years. In fact, I remember sitting in sophomore literature class in 1990 and hearing friends talk about how a magazine had hinted Marvel looking at options for a Black Panther movie. Here we are 23 years later still talking about the opportunity the House of Ideas has with the character. There are, though, distinct disadvantages to creating the movie.

I am hoping for a Black Panther movie

I am hoping for a Black Panther movie

Wakanda

Being that T’Challa comes from a mythological land on “our” planet, people might have an issue relating. People can understand how they might not be able to relate to Asgard or Krypton because they are off in “yonder” and not of our world. People would have a more difficult time relating to a land which has religion and traditions which we would relate to a third world country but the technology or a country advanced ahead of the United States. This relation gap would have to be dealt with in a Black Panther movie.

Dryness

One of the issues with a potential Black Panther movie is the same type of issue Marvel will face with a potential Doctor Strange movie. Both characters are dry when compared with the witty superheroes we are used to in the movies. If Marvel makes T’Challa as witty as say, Iron Man, old fans will become upset with the commercialization of the character. If Marvel does not make the character witty enough, fans who do not know the character from comics will be disappointed.

Hate to Say It

I hate to say it, but one of the issues with a Black Panther movie will be that people who are alien to comics will believe the character has a movie because he is Black. The trendy people who go to the latest superhero movie and have never stepped into a comic book store will discount the history (which they don’t know) of the character and gain a preconception that the Black Panther has a movie because of the color of his skin and not the content of his character. This would be the greatest disconnect fans could have with a Black Panther movie, but you know it will happen.

Personally, I hope to see a Black Panther movie in the future. He is one of the most underrated superheroes in the Marvel roster and he needs to be more at the front than he is. Hopefully, Marvel can overcome these obstacles and give us the movie we deserve.

Interview with John Layman About Detective Comics and Processes

May. 06 Comics, News no comments

While I was covering C2E2, I had the opportunity to sit down with John Layman and talk about various aspects of his career and the titles he writes for.

John Layman

John Layman

Larry Poupard: You write for both DC Comics [Detective Comics] and Image[Chew]. What unique challenges and conflicts do you face in creating product for two companies which creators who only write for one company do not face?

John Layman: Well, at Image, you don’t have an editor. You are writing on a tightrope without a net. Whereas with Batman, you are not only writing for an editor and a wider audience, but Batman has five other books in the whole interconnected universe. You have to worry about tying in other events and crossovers because there might be something big happening in Scott Snyder’s book or in someone else’s. With one book, I am playing God while I am playing a ship’s captain in the other in which I have to guide the ship and avoid the icebergs.

Larry Poupard: You mentioned the continuity with Batman over multiple titles. Do you find yourself communicating more with other writers about what is being done or with the main offices of DC Comics?

John Layman: Both. I try to keep myself as open as possible with other writers. Everyone knows my aim and anyone can do a drive by or call me to ask me any kind of questions. The writers are very good about coordinating that. I used to be an editor so I am very aware of how to roll with the punches. You gotta be willing to make things mesh.

There is a thing I like to do myself. In the current thing I am writing right now I’ve got this jump cut of Batman doing various fights. I might say to someone that I don’t know what to have drawn in this particular frame. I don’t want Batman just fighting a bad guy so tell me who he should be fighting [to go along with] who he is fighting in another book. When people read that they will say something like “Oh that is what is going on in Batman & Robin #21,” or whatever. This helps with the overall system of continuity.

Larry Poupard: In Detective Comics, you introduced Man-Bat while tackling the 900 story. Is there a difference between introducing a previously developed character in the New 52 than there is with introducing a new character which has never seen print before?

John Layman: The thing is that these characters all work and everyone knows them. In some ways, you are revisiting familiar ground but it is also an opportunity to wipe away the statements people might ask about “Do you have to read 70 years of Batman?” No, because that is the glory of the New 52.

It is cool if you already know Man-Bat because you have the opportunity to see this classic story again. You can watch as we revisit something old and reinvent it at the same time. In some ways it is a cheat because some of the work has been done for you. The most liberating part, though, is not having to worry about what happened in 1974 or in Detective Comics #681. I am a bit of a lazy person so it is really good.

I always site someone like Mark Waid who is just a living encyclopedia and has all these trivia questions and knows everything. I don’t. Even if I read something, I don’t necessarily retain it. So the fact that I don’t have to adhere to all of this archaic continuity is a good thing for me.

Larry Poupard: Each Batman supervillain is unique and creates interesting types of challenges for Batman. Which member of the Rogue’s Gallery which you have not worked with is at the top of your list to work with in the future because he or she would fit in best with your story and which fit would be the most difficult?

John Layman: Two-Face, yes. I am kind of glad that Joke is kinda off the books for right now. Joke is too dark at this point for my story. When Joker comes in, he does horrible things and sends out his “psychic reverberations. I was glad I got to touch on that, but he is the one I want to work with the least. Since Scott Snyder just did this history Joker story [Death of the Family], I don’t really have to for a while.

Two-Face is the one I have been dying to use for long time now. I keep trying to. I keep trying to squeeze him in, but then I say “No, it is not time now.” I am going to get Two-Face before the end of my run.

There are many different aspects which make [Two-Face] interesting. There is the “law” aspect and the split personality aspect which Batman has too, just in a less obvious way than Two-Face. He is someone I am going to use before the end. I just don’t know when the end will come.

Halloween: Nightdance – Gems of the Warehouse

May. 06 Detroit Area Comic Book Store no comments

The Halloween: Nightdance trade paperback was originally published by Devil’s Due Publishing in July of 2008, and is the latest find in our “Gems of the Warehouse” series. If you are a horror fan, a fan of the Halloween movie series, or are a fan of Tim Seeley’s, this book is for you.

Halloween: Nightdance is a Gem of the Warehouse

Halloween: Nightdance is a Gem of the Warehouse

Who Created Halloween: Nightdance?

The scripts of Halloween: Nightdance mini-series were written by Stefan Hutchinson who also wrote many of the other comic book adaptations of the Michael Myers character. Artwork was done by Tim Seeley who is better known for Hack/Slash and Revival.

The Story

Typically, comic books based on movie properties are disappointing because they either use shoestring continuity ties or go off on tangents which rarely reflect the property the series is based on. This is not true for Halloween: Nightdance.

In the story, Michael Myers becomes obsessed with a girl named Lisa who reminds him of his sister Judith. Many events and murders appear to happen in the story due to happenstance until a great reveal at the end which any fan of the original Halloween movies will respect as it could have been pulled from one of those movies. The basic story is fairly straightforward, but there are elements which add up to a mystery which will have you scratching your head until the last stave of the story.

The Exploited Fear

Remember, Michael Myer’s unyielding obsession of Judith was what made the original Halloween a success and scared so many people. It was a horror film which conveyed a fear women have about a man taking an obsession too far. The movie was based on a fear which women often share, but it was revealed and explored in a way which sent chills up men’s spines as well. Halloween: Nightdance does a great job of tapping into that type of fear so that both men and women can be chilled to the bone by it.

What’s Inside?

Halloween: Nightdance collects all four of the original comics mini-series. The trade paperback also collects the variant covers from the series and bonus backstory and epilogue material not found in the basic issues. There is a prose piece about Charlie Bowles, a Russelville serial killer reminiscent of Michael Myers which you will not find anywhere else.

I suggest checking out Halloween: Nightdance as it is a solid story which will take you back to the early Halloween movies. There are various tie-ins with the original movie series which fans will pick up on. Tim Seeley, as always, is able to convey the fear of his characters through his art. The artwork melds well with the story and produces characters we can relate to and push for. Check it out in our Amazon store by following this link.

Memories of Free Comics Book Day 2013 at Wonderworld Comics

May. 05 Detroit Area Comic Book Store Comments Off on Memories of Free Comics Book Day 2013 at Wonderworld Comics

A great time was had by all at Wonderworld Comics this year for free comic book day.

Free Comic Book Day

Free Comic Book Day

Cosplay dancers at Wonderworld Comics of Free Comic Book Day 2013

It was great seeing many of you there and hearing about what you thought about the website. Some of your suggestions will be hitting this site over the next week.

I want to thank all of the customers and guests for helping everything run smoothly and for many of the regulars who helped out with setting up the chairs for Dave Santia’s shows or by giving suggestions to other customers when we were busy with others. You help to remind me how our store is built on the backs of great customers.

I am already looking forward to Free Comic Book Day 2014 (which should fall on May 3 next year).

Pictures from Free Comic Book Day will be posted here when they become available.

Comics Alliance Closed: AOL’s Disservices and Obfuscation

May. 03 Comic Book Collecting, News no comments

By now, I am sure you have heard about how Comics Alliance has been closed by AOL and that thousands of comic book readers and collectors are going to have to find other sites to migrate to for their information. As someone who worked as a freelance online writer for over six years, I cannot agree with the argument which has come out that Comics Alliance was cut due to underperformance.

The blanket reason for AOL's elimination of Comics Alliance was a disservice to the writers and to the readers.

The blanket reason for AOL’s elimination of Comics Alliance was a disservice to the writers and to the readers.

Blanket Excuse for Cutting Comics Alliance

Of course, corporate entities will often come up with a blanket excuse when cuts have to be made. AOL cut many of their information sites last week, and Comics Alliance was one of which was listed as being cut for underperformance. I think there were other reasons why the site is no longer receiving new content from staff writers.

The Numbers Don’t Add Up

Alexa.com is a site which gives site statistics on every website you could imagine. Comics Alliance was ranking higher is almost every category websites are rated on (see here). While Average Time on Site was down by 2% in the most recent three month period, the overall Traffic Rank was up significantly. More people were going to Comics Alliance, but they were not staying on the site as long at the end of the period as at the beginning. This is a problem websites can adjust over a short term. I should know since I have helped sites do so in the past. All of the graphable issues with the site are ones which could be fixed so there must be another reason.

The Leaked Memo

In 2011, Business Insider got their hands on the “Master Plan” at AOL. One of the parts buried in the document (see links at bottom of Business Insider article) was about how the company wanted to expend their offerings to less expensive freelancers who they did not have to keep on the payroll or pay benefits to. Keep this in mind as you read on. I have strong reason to believe the information sites such as Comics Alliance were cut to make way for more freelance workers.

AOL Tried it Before

From 2009-2012, AOL Seed was a content submission site where freelancers and bloggers could write on topics AOL or AOL partners were interested in. I took a few of the jobs at the time but found the publication format to be difficult to maneuver and the money was not always worth the competition involved. AOL dove hard into the content market until it acquired the Huffington Post and found it could save money in the long-term.

The Huffington Post

AOL owns the Huffington Post which promises “exposure” to writers who will submit content to them for free. When AOL acquired the media source, AOL Seed was not needed as much so it was closed. If the Huffington Post can source hundreds to thousands of up-and-coming writers, why would AOL need to keep a site which paid freelance writers to produce content? From a business perspective, the argument could be made that since the Huffington Post model continues to work, AOL does not need to pay staff writers on sites such as Comics Alliance if they can get the same amount of convent (or more) for free.

I see the blanket reason for Comics Alliance being cut by AOL as a disservice to all of the writers at the site and the devoted readers they gained over the years. I fully expect AOL to get back into the comic book news field, but with less expensive freelance writers or with writers through the Huffington Post who want to make a name in the field in the hope of reaping rewards later. I will personally miss Comics Alliance and hope the workers there are able to find stable companies to work for in the very near future.

In closing, I think you should see the infamous video of Harlan Ellison talking about why companies should pay their writers. Since this is a PG-13 site, I cannot display the video here. You can see if by following this link.

Interview with Chris Burnham on Death of Damian at C2E2

May. 03 Comics, News no comments

While covering C2E2, I had the opportunity to sit down with Chris Burnham and discuss his artwork on Batman Incorporated and the death of Damian Wayne. I was expecting insight into the story, but also received insight into being a creator of a major comic and the struggles they often face in today’s market.

Chris Burnham

Chris Burnham

Larry Poupard: Shortly before the death of Damian hit reader’s hands, Dan Slott began receiving death threats for “killing” Peter Parker in The Amazing Spider-Man. In the days leading up to the release of Batman Incorporated #8, did dread of repercussions from fans go through your mind?

Chris Burnham: (Laughs) Ya, I think I was a little disappointed that no one wanted to kill me! I guess they were threatening Slott, but it was Ryan Stegman drawing the book. It was all targeted towards Dan Slott who is very vocal and is always out there getting into Internet fights with people so I think he brings those stories and that kind of stuff on himself. Nobody is going to threaten Grant Morrison because he is not going to read it. I don’t even think he owns a computer. I think that if you don’t engage people in that way you can kill the fire before it even starts.

Larry Poupard: With the increase in passion among comic book readers in the last few years, do you believe some fans have difficulties separating creators from the stories they create?

Chris Burnham: Yes. You know, I can understand that. There is a strange disconnect even with me as I have my fanboy side and my professional side. I know all of what is going on and sometimes I just have to tell people to leave us alone because we are doing our best.

People have all kinds of weird continuity issues and I think it is all a miracle that it [the work] finally gets done. You have 52 books which means there are about 200 people all working on them at the same time and it is a miracle that we are able to get Bruce Wayne’s hair black.

As a professional working behind the scenes, I understand what is going on when I read a Marvel book and it does not jive with my fanboy side and it turns that side of me off. I want to yell “What the Hell is wrong with you people? Why can’t you get it right?” Then it clicks and I remember that perfection in this job is basically impossible.

Larry Poupard: Since Damian was killed, the Internet has been filled with rumors about what is going to happen and many readers believe they know what is going to happen next. Do these preconceptions and rumors place creators at a unique disadvantage and apply a different type of pressure than should usually be faced?

Chris Burnham: That is a really interesting question as I am definitely stupid enough to go on the forums and look at where people think the story is going and asking “What does it all mean.” Sometimes I read some of the theories and think “Oh, man. I don’t think we are that smart.”

I really try hard to make sure that kind of stuff [theories and rumors] does not get into my head. I am sure it does get in a little bit. We have tried to have our story planned out for a few years now and are not going to take a hard left turn because some guy on the Internet figured out the ending.

If you get enough people screaming on the Internet, one of them is going to be right. Other people will say “Oh that is the stupidest idea I ever heard” and “Oh that will never happen” and I find myself chuckling and saying “He got it.” We just need to put our heads down and stick to the plan.

Larry Poupard: The death of Damian will probably follow you throughout your career. Can you think of a positive and negative to the notoriety you will forever receive for your work on Batman Incorporated #8?

Chris Burnham: Well, people know who I am now, and that is pretty neat. The convention this weekend has been my busiest ever and I have signed about a billion comic books this weekend. The vitriol behind the death has died down at this point. I think things would have been different if I had a convention experience a few months ago when the book came out. It would have been a nightmare for me and it would have been a rough one as I got all sorts of advice from angry guys.

Since it is a couple months past, people can respect it now as a dramatic story and not a shocking and offensive event. I think it is going to go down as a classic Batman story and not a horrible and traumatic experience.

Scarlet Witch and Quicksilver in Avengers 2: Don’t Believe the Hype

May. 02 News, TV & Movies no comments

Entertainment Weekly is “confirming” that Quicksilver and the Scarlet Witch have been written into the Avengers 2 script. Since the report uses “sources” which have gone unnamed, we should not take this report as fact…yet. If you are a regular reader, you know I shy away from rumors. When a rumor is being reported as fact, I can’t keep my mouth shut.

Don't believe the hype yet about Scarlet Witch and Quicksilver in Avengers 2...yet.

Don’t believe the hype yet about Scarlet Witch and Quicksilver in Avengers 2…yet.

Marvel’s Response to Avengers 2 Rumor

Kevin Feige, the final decision maker over at Marvel Studios has stated that “I’m not confirming or denying. The draft could change six months from now.” Essentially, he is telling everyone to take this rumor about Avengers 2 with a grain of salt.

The Colossus Example

Remember back to 1999 when we heard that Colossus was going to be in X-Men in 2000. All we got was a brief cameo of a teenager drawing sketches in the courtyard. In 2002, we heard that Daniel Cudmore had been cast as Colossus and would play a major role in the following year’s X2. He was onscreen briefly and many viewers missed his cameo during the action. Even if they are written into the script, we should not believe they will make more than a brief appearance in Avengers 2 until we are officially told otherwise.

May Never Make it In

Do you remember Tobey Maguire’s cameo in Life of Pi? Do you remember Uma Thurman playing Blake Lively’s mother in Savages? Do you remember Angela Bassett playing the spy boss in Mr. & Mrs. Smith? All of these actors were cast in roles which never made it past the editing room. Even if someone is cast as Quicksilver and someone as the Scarlet Witch, we should not believe anything until we see the previews for Avengers 2.

Feige’s Statement

Feige pointed out that the script for Avengers 2 might change before shooting. There are many movies which change script mid-shooting. In fact, if you listen to some of the commentaries about Mr. & Mrs. Smith, you would know that the script changed so many times during shooting that many people wondered if the movie would be finished. The same could hold true for Avengers 2.

Rumors Rumor Rumors

Remember that what we are hearing is simply rumors right now about Avengers 2 and about Quicksilver and Scarlet Witch. Always question an article which states something as “fact” from “unnamed sources” and then follows up with a statement saying that the person in the know cannot confirm or deny and that things might change. I would love to see Quicksilver and Scarlet Witch in Avengers 2, but I am not going to hold my breath.

Free Comic Book Day: Most Important Comic of the Day

May. 02 Comics, News Comments Off on Free Comic Book Day: Most Important Comic of the Day

What is the most important comic being given away on Free Comic Book Day?

Free Comic Book Day

Free Comic Book Day

The Publisher’s Answers

I am sure if you were to ask someone at Marvel about the most important comic being given away on Free Comic Book Day, he or she would answer “Infinity” since it is the official launch of one of the biggest crossovers in years. DC Comics would push Superman Special Edition. Image would remind you about The Walking Dead Special coming out while IDW would probably talk about TMNT New Animated Advenures. Essentially, each publisher would talk about whatever book their team is giving away. They would all be partially right and partially wrong.

A Fan’s Choice on Free Comic Book Day

A child might believe the most important comic on Free Comic Book Day would have to be Spongebob Comics Freestyle Funnies while a seasoned collector might also point to Infinity. A Star Wars fan would look at the Dark Horse offering as being the most important to her. Again, they would all be partially right and partially wrong.

What is the Most Important Comic of Free Comic Book Day?

The most important comic book of Free Comic Book Day is the one which opens your eyes to something new. You might be a DC Comics fan who gives Infinity a try and decides to give Marvel another chance. You might be a devout Marvelite who decides to try the DC Nation Super Sampler. You might decide to try something from one of the smaller presses and realize it is a perfect fit for you.

If you are new to comic books, or have not read one in years, any comic book you pick up on Free Comic Book Day is the most important. Any comics you read with help you realize why there are so many people who love comics and find them to be the best entertainment medium on the market. When you are leaving the comic book store on Saturday (hopefully our Detroit area comic book store), look down in your bag. Whatever is inside is the most important to you.

To learn more about Free Comic Book Day, please follow this link.

Patrick Dempsey Should Play Doctor Strange

May. 02 TV & Movies Comments Off on Patrick Dempsey Should Play Doctor Strange

While I am sure many fans would not agree with me, I believe Patrick Dempsey of Grey’s Anatomy would be the perfect actor to play Doctor Strange in the planned movie. Marvel Comics has called for a script, and I would be surprised if the project was not given an official date soon. McDreamy is one of the few actors who could give Doctor Strange the portrayal he deserves.

Patrick Dempsey should play Doctor Strange

Patrick Dempsey should play Doctor Strange

My Justification

Doctor Strange has been one of my favorite characters since I was a child. One of the first comics I ever read was an issue of The Defenders and I instantly gained respect for the Sorcerer Supreme. Over the years, I have read every appearance of his in Strange Tales, every issue of The Defenders, and all of the issues in Doctor Strange’s own titles. I am not someone who just has a passing fancy with the characters – he is one of my favorites and his portrayal on film is important to me.

In All Seriousness

One of the most important aspects of Doctor Strange’s personality is how he stays serious no matter what the situation. Even his humor is serious. Dempsey’s character on “Grey’s Anatomy” is reflective of the Master of the Mystic Arts without the Sanctum Santorum. McDreamy’s character is usually serious and he can focus on whatever issue is at hand. The dry wit of the character is very close to what would be found in the pages of the comics.

The Hand

What is interesting is the Grey’s Anatomy character is currently dealing with not being able to perform surgery due to a hand injury. This is reflective of the origin of Doctor Strange and plays well on the small screen. It would make sense to transfer the same storyline onto the big screen.

The Women

For the most part, Marvel has attempted to bring lesser-known characters to stardom through the Phase 1 movies. Samuel L. Jackson, Scarlett Johannson, and Robert Downy Jr. were the known names before the Phase 1 Marvel movies, but many more names have become red carpet darlings since. Bringing Dempsey in to play Doctor Strange would bring more women into the theaters who want to see their favorite actor on the big screen. Comic book fans should not be discouraged by the idea of a Marvel movie bringing in an actor women would go for. In all honesty, some of you need a date and should hope for anything which can get you one.

Dempsey has made statements in the past that he wants the role. Marvel – just sign on the bottom line and get it over with already. I know there have been rumors about other actors taking the role, but Dempsey just fits.

Pairing the Right Superhero and Supervillain is Harder Than You Think

May. 02 Characters Comments Off on Pairing the Right Superhero and Supervillain is Harder Than You Think

Matching the right supervillain with the right superhero in a comic is an important task which is often overlooked or taken for granted by comic book readers. A strong pairing between a supervillain and a superhero can increase the importance of both characters and make for memorable battles which can have us talking for decades.

Pairing the right superhero and supervillain is often taken for granted.

Pairing the right superhero and supervillain is often taken for granted.

Supervillains as a Display of Power

Sometimes, supervillains have to be made to appear miniscule against a superhero to nightlight the superhero’s strength. From time to time, a comic book publisher might want to show how powerful a superhero is by having him or her face a supervillain which has given less powerful superheroes a run for their money. Images from the late 1970s come to mind when Doctor Strange had a fight with Porcupine which only lasted a few frames. While the quilled-villain was a tough battle for some superheroes, he could not hold his own against the Sorcerer Supreme for more than a moment.

Supervillains as an Equal Threat

Joker has proven over the years that he is a perfect match for Batman and Magneto has always made for interesting battles with The X-Men. Typically, supervillains are paired with superheroes which are only a notch above their level. Only the aspects of good make Spider-Man greater than Vulture or Lizard. This type of paring makes a villain a character to be feared by comic book readers. It is this type of pairing which help sell comics and keep us coming back for more each month.

Pairings to Teach a Lesson

Sometimes, we have pairings which are meant to teach us a lesson. These should be rare, but happened quite often over at the House of Ideas. At one point, Marvel thought it would be good to encourage kids to be everything they could be and teach a lesson about how kids can do anything they put their minds to. The negative part of this lesson was how Power Pack defeated characters such as Dr. Doom and Galactus. Really?

Pairing to Show Ethics

In all honesty, Superman should have done away with Lex Luthor decades ago. With one punch, the Man of Steel could send ol’ Lexy into orbit. The pairing of a human with a superpowered alien proves Kal-El’s humanity. Instead of crushing the thorn in his side, he respects the life of even the most evil human.

The next time you pick up a comic, think about the pairing of the supervillains and superheroes. You might be surprised by how you have overlooked the importance of these parings for so many years.

Digital Death Part IV: Time to Wake Up Comic Book Fans and Retailers

May. 02 Comic Book Collecting, News Comments Off on Digital Death Part IV: Time to Wake Up Comic Book Fans and Retailers

While attending the Diamond Retailers Summit and C2E2 in Chicago last week, I noticed two disturbing trends in the industry which could lead to the digital death of physical comics, but I also noticed an important glimmer of hope in the fight against digital comics. The glimmer of hope reinforced my push to open people’s eyes to realizing how change is not always a good thing, especially when the change is to digital comics.

The death of the comic book industry will be caused by digitally downloading comic books.

The death of the comic book industry will be caused by digitally downloading comic books.

Little Note to Start Off

I don’t want to bog this article down by giving my points over again about how digital comics will destroy the industry. I don’t want to have to tell you again how digital comics will cause for massive amounts of job loss, the exodus of comic book fans away from the entertainment medium, and how digital comics are a slap to collectors. If you have not heard these arguments, please read the following Digital Death parts first:

Digital Death Part I: Illegally Downloading Comic Books

Digital Death Part II: Dark Reason Behind Digital Comics

Digital Death Part III: Digital Comics and Collecting

Some Retailers Counting the Days

At the Diamond Retailers Summit and C2E2, I noticed how many comic book retailers are essentially counting the days down to their demise. Either they have given up the fight against digital comics or they do not realize retailers have a voice in the transition to digital comics. I found myself explaining how readers, collectors, and retailers do have a strong voice and Marvel and DC Comics will be forced to listen to us if we can collectively become loud enough.

Diamond Giving Up the Fight Against Digital Comics?

Earlier this week, I told you about how Diamond Select showed retailers products which will be in upcoming issues of Previews. The company is not only planning on expanding its kitchenware section, it is also going to carry party favors just like Party City and other chains which would easily be able to knock out a comic book store on selection and buying power.

The addition of a dozen types of ice trays, half a dozen pizza cutters, and Spider-Man party favors shows me that Diamond figures it needs to fill catalogs with something (anything). The company is trying to find a way to stay relevant once the “Digital Comics Armageddon” takes place. Diamond needs a swift kick in the back pockets right now to be forced to realize how digital comics do not have to take over.

The Glimmer of Hope

At the Diamond Retailers Summit, I met many retailers and vendors who are just as mad as I am about digital comics. At C2E2, I found more vendors and retailers, but I also found comic book creators, comic book readers, and comic book collectors. They all have a voice but were either too scared to voice their opinion against the large corporate entities which “control” the market or they did not know how to get their point across.

The Future of Digital Death

I don’t want to say we need to “organize” against digital comics because the word “organize” has become synonymous with unions and I am not interested in starting a union to submit grievances in fashion to Marvel and DC Comics. Instead, I would prefer to use the term “band.” It is time for all of us to band together in this fight. More of us need to vocalize our concerns about the potential future of the industry because once more voices are heard, more voices will emerge.

In storytelling, characters are often allowed to see the future. Characters always wonder if the future is set in stone or if it can be changed in some way. The Digital Death of comics could refer to the death of the print form of the medium or it can mean the death of the push towards digital comics. WE (not a publishing company) are the ones to make that decision!

Special Message from WonderWorldComics.com

May. 01 Detroit Area Comic Book Store, News no comments

On February 10, 2013, we relaunched WonderWorldComics.com as a comic book news and information site. The response from not only customers at the store, but from readers all over the world, has been absolutely amazing. I want to take a moment to talk directly to all of you as to what you should expect from WonderWorldComics.com.

Wonderworld Comics

Wonderworld Comics

The First Goal of WonderWorldComics.com

There are two main goals of WonderWorldComics.com. First off, I believe a well-informed reader or collector can have a better connection to the industry at large with information. Articles on the site about the history of comics, symbolism of characters, and tips for collecting, help you understand the world of comics better and can deepen your connection with what you read and what you collect.

The Second Goal of WonderWorldComics.com

The second goal, and arguably the most important goal, is to give you a voice in the industry. While attending C2E2 recently, I was amazed by the number of people in the industry from creators to comic book company executives that were talking about WonderWorldComics.com. Many of them visit the site on a regular basis now to see what I have written about what is going on in the industry. After a little over two months, this site is already becoming a leader in the charge against what comic book companies are doing wrong and is becoming a leader in explaining to those companies how they can improve.  Comic book collectors and readers can have a voice in the industry and it is time for the collective voice to be heard.

WhatWonderWorldComics.com is Not

If you have not realized this already, I will point out that I try to do my best to stay clear of rumors from around the industry. If for some reason I have to discuss a rumor, you will know it is a rumor and will not be reported as fact unless I can confirm it. I apologize for any slips along the way but will do my best to stay on my feet when it comes to this promise. A goal of this site is to give information and information clouded by rumors is disinformation. I believe you deserve better.

What is Coming?

I am slowly opening the gates to new writers on WonderWorldComics.com. Over the next few months, you will see writers other than me making posts but I will hold them to the same goals and promisses which I hold dear. You will also begin to see guest contributions very soon. Oh, and expect a few more interesting contests in the upcoming months as well.

I am now able to devote more time to WonderWorldComics.com. I want this site to become as successful as possible to ensure there are as many informed comic book readers as possible and to ensure a market which is inviting to all types of comic book readers and collectors. At the same time, I want to take a role in ensuring our entertainment medium stays as strong as possible. While it is not possible at this time to run new contest 24 hours a day, there is an influx of new content coming at a higher rate from myself and from other contributors. WonderWorldComics.com is shifting into a higher gear because it needs to.

Thank You

Every single one of you needs to be thanked for making WonderWorldComics.com the success it is becoming. We are marching this site along a different path than most and are proud to know so many of you are marching with us.

If you ever see something going on in the industry you believe should be addressed on this site, make sure you stop me in the store if you are in the area. If you are unable to get to the store, you can always email me at Larry@WonderWorldComics.com. Remember, this site is your voice. I just put your voice into words.

Disenchantment with Once Upon a Time Graphic Novel

May. 01 Comics, News no comments

Marvel will be releasing a graphic novel tie-in with ABC’s Once Upon a Time in September. This graphic novel will follow in the footsteps of the Castle graphic novels and comic books. I cannot say that I was excited about this announcement at C2E2 but find it is worth mentioning on this site as to why I was not excited.

A Once Upon a Time graphic novel is coming from Marvel.

A Once Upon a Time graphic novel is coming from Marvel.

The Skinny on Once Upon a Time Graphic Novel

The Once Upon a Time graphic novel has been plotted by series writer and co-producer Dan Thomsen. It is co-written by Corinna Bechko (Planet of the Apes). Art by Michael Kaluta will feature the Evil Queen, The Huntsman, and Red Riding Hood. It is scheduled for release in September of this year.

My Disappointment with Castle Graphic Novels and Comics

I don’t really care what type of heat you will give me for saying this, but I am a big fan of Castle on TV. In the past, I wrote weekly articles for a major website about the show and I make sure I am home every Monday to watch the show with my wife. When the announcement was originally made about a graphic novel being based on the characters the imaginary Richard Castle wrote about, I was excited…until I read the graphic novel.

There was nothing inherently wrong with the original Castle graphic novel in terms of artwork or writing. The same is true for the offerings under the banner since then. As a fan of the show, I was disappointed with the line because it did not have the comedic timing of the show and could not offer the tension of realizing there was ten minutes left in the show and the characters still needed to figure out the case. Timing is one of the great aspects of the TV show and it cannot translate well into the graphic novels, comics, or even the written novels. Since I am passionate about the show, I find myself wanting to hold the bar high for the printed works and believe extra steps needed to have been taken to transform the printed versions of Castle to equate with the show. Those steps were not taken

Once Upon a Time: Because They Have To?

Another aspect which set me off from the Castle comic series, and is setting me off from the Once Upon a Time graphic novel is that idea of Marvel creating a product because it has to for business reasons. ABC and Marvel are both owned by Disney. With Marvel bringing S.H.I.E.L.D. to the network, is feels like ABC is forcing the publishing company to go tit-for-tat and release TV shows in print form. While it happens on a regular basis, a publishing company should not be forced to give the perception of publishing something it has to for someone else (unless it is for the fans). If so, the fans can become distanced and will look for another publishing which will publish for the fans and not for corporate deals.

IDW Publishing Hitting Home Runs With New Cartoon Network Offerings

May. 01 Comics, News no comments

One of the most intriguing announcements during C2E2 was the announcement by IDW Publishing of the expansion of their Cartoon Network agreement to include comics from Powerpuff Girls, Ben 10, and Samurai Jack. The company is dedicated to expanding its selection for children and these three comics are poised to take the company to the next level in sales.

IDW Publishing is hitting multiple home runs with the new selections coming out of their agreement with Cartoon Network.

IDW Publishing is hitting multiple home runs with the new selections coming out of their agreement with Cartoon Network.

IDW Publishing Adding to My Little Pony Success

As of this writing, the March sales rankings are the latest released by Diamond. During March, My Little Pony was represented three times in the Top 100 listing with My Little Pony Mircro Series #2 Rainbow Dash (at #91), My Little Pony: Friendship is Magic #5 (at #65), and My Little Pony: Friendship is Magic #4 (at #55). Just think about the number of spots IDW Publishing can take over in the Diamond Top 100 with three more children’s titles which all have adult cult followings.

When?

Powerpuff Girls is scheduled to start hitting stores in September while Samurai Jack is scheduled for October and Ben 10 is scheduled for November. I would expect the marketing minds at IDW Publishing to work overtime in the months leading up to these releases.

Why is This Different?

Marvel, DC Comics, Image, and many of the smaller companies are all testing the waters of the growing children’s market. IDW Publishing is chuckling at them while jumping in the pool with three big titles. “Babies” titles like those from the Big 2 are going to be inviting to children of comic book fans as the young become more interested in the characters their parents love in baby or adolescent form. This does not do anything, though, to bring readership from outside of the comic book market circle.

IDW Publishing hit a home run with My Little Pony: Friendship is Magic because it invited in the fans of the property along with the children of comic book readers. A circle was grown to include people who had never been in comic book stores. The same will be done with the Powerpuff Girls, Samurai Jack, and Ben 10. I fully expect these titles to being as many new adult comic book readers as new young comic book readers. I also fully expect the other comic book publishing companies will get nervous when they lose they are losing market share to IDW Publishing.

To learn more about IDW Publishing, please follow this link.

C2E2 Cosplay Pictures Part 2

Apr. 30 Conventions, News no comments
C2E2 Cosplay

C2E2 Cosplay

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C2E2 Cosplay

C2E2 Cosplay

C2E2 Cosplay

C2E2 Cosplay

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

C2E2 Cosplay

C2E2 Cosplay

C2E2 Cosplay

C2E2 Cosplay

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

C2E2 Cosplay

C2E2 Cosplay

One of the most interesting costumes.

One of the most interesting costumes.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

C2E2 Cosplay

C2E2 Cosplay

C2E2 Cosplay

C2E2 Cosplay

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

C2E2 Cosplay

C2E2 Cosplay

C2E2 Cosplay

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C2E2 Cosplay

C2E2 Cosplay

C2E2 Cosplay

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C2E2 Cosplay

C2E2 Cosplay

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C2E2 Cosplay

C2E2 Cosplay

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C2E2 Cosplay

C2E2 Cosplay

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C2E2 Cosplay

C2E2 Cosplay

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C2E2 Cosplay

C2E2 Cosplay

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C2E2 Cosplay

C2E2 Cosplay

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C2E2 Cosplay

C2E2 Cosplay

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C2E2 Cosplay

C2E2 Cosplay

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C2E2 Cosplay

C2E2 Cosplay

Who is this masked boozer?

Who is this masked boozer?

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

C2E2 Cosplay

C2E2 Cosplay

C2E2 Cosplay

C2E2 Cosplay

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Go home Waldo. You're drunk.

Go home Waldo. You’re drunk.

 

 

C2E2 Cosplay

C2E2 Cosplay

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

C2E2 Cosplay

C2E2 Cosplay

C2E2 Cosplay

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C2E2 Cosplay

C2E2 Cosplay

C2E2 Cosplay

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C2E2 Cosplay

C2E2 Cosplay

C2E2 Cosplay

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This has to be my favorite picture of C2E2.

This has to be my favorite picture of C2E2.

 

To see Page 1 of the C2E2 cosplay pictures, please follow this link.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

C2E2 Cosplay Pictures Part 1

Apr. 30 Conventions, News no comments

I could fill this site with just about anything from C2E2, and the majority of your will still be asking about the cosplay pictures we took. Here is Part 1 of the pictures. You will find a link to Page 2 at the bottom.

C2E2 Cosplay

C2E2 Cosplay

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C2E2 Cosplay

C2E2 Cosplay

C2E2 Cosplay

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C2E2 Cosplay

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C2E2 Cosplay

C2E2 Cosplay

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C2E2 Cosplay

C2E2 Cosplay

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C2E2 Cosplay

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C2E2 Cosplay

C2E2 Cosplay

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To view the C2E2 Cosplay Pictures Part 2, please follow this link.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

C2E2 Traffic Flow Issues

Apr. 29 Conventions, News no comments

While I enjoyed C2E2, I noticed that the convention needs to improve upon traffic flow within the convention hall. There are certain issues the convention needs to look at to ensure everyone has the best time possible their entire time at the convention.

The front of C2E2

The front of C2E2

The Big Problem

One of the most important aspects of a convention for me is traffic flow. Nothing can ruin a convention trip more than needing to go to the bathroom and it taking 20 minutes to travel 200 feet because of congested crowds. On Friday and Sunday, traffic flow was great at C2E2. Saturday was a different story when it could take you what felt like an eternity to travel down an aisle. Also, traffic flow issues can lead to product being damaged or (worse yet?) personal injury.

Cosplay Alternative

Two things the organizers could do in the future to improve traffic flow. First off, many conventions are looking at the option of cosplay photo areas. If pictures may only be taken of cosplayers in certain areas, traffic flow can be improved by eliminating the moments when people ask for a picture to be taken with a cosplayer in the middle of an aisle.

Artist Alley

Artist Alley needs to be more inviting next year. The aisle separating Artist Alley from the vendor floor at C2E2 has many long booths which isolated the two parts of the convention from the other. While I am not a believer in feng shui, I have to admit that there was an energy break from the main floor to Artist Alley.  Larger flow points into Artist Alley will not only help alleviate some of the traffic flow problems at C2E2, it might also help the artists make some extra money.

Security

If you were entering C2E2 with a bag, security would force you to open the bag for inspection. Obviously, they were looking for some type of weapon. If your cosplay costume used fake weapons, they needed to be inspected as well. While I understand the need for this type of security, it bogged down the traffic flow of the convention. At the same time, there was an ironic aspect because you could purchase real weapons from dealers on the convention floor. It was as if the convention was saying, “We don’t want you bringing in anything which could harm someone. If you purchase something on our floor which could hurt someone, we are alright with that.

This picture was taken on Friday when crowds were not at maximum. By looking in the upper right corner, though, you can see how masses would have problems getting around at C2E2.

This picture was taken on Friday when crowds were not at maximum. By looking in the upper right corner, though, you can see how masses would have problems getting around at C2E2.

Hopefully, the promoters and planners at C2E2 will take a look at these issues and figure out ways to clear up the problems. C2E2 could compete with the bigger dogs on the block soon. C2E2 only needs to go through a few minor changes to become the show, and traffic flow is one of them.

For more information on C2E2, follow this link.

C2E2 Impressions So Far (Opening)

Apr. 26 Conventions, News no comments

C2E2 2013 has only been open for a few hours, but people are making a huge exodus to the event. Comic book readers and collectors, cosplayers, media guest fiends, and pop culture lovers are all finding at last a few hundred items each to focus their attention on.

Can you find the best C2E2 freebies?

Can you find the best C2E2 freebies?

The Vendors

There is a great selection of vendors at the show making it so the show appeals to a wide-range of types of fans. You will find almost everything ranging from comics to toys to gaming to posters to “unique” items which would take a half hour to describe. As a bit of a purist, I am concerned by what I consider to be a low level of comic book dealers. For a show with “Comic Con” in the name, I would have hopped for a dominance from comic book vendors.

Traffic Flow

I am amazed at this point how well traffic has been flowing overall. I have not seen too many stoppages in flow. That is an amazing feet at a show like this.

Artists Alley

I am always impressed by shows which have a variety of types of artists. There is the expected fair of comic book creators, but manga also has a strong showing as does impressionism, caricature artists, and other types of artists as well.

Pricing

Pricing of items at C2E2 are standard for what you might find at any major con. Of course, the pricing is up to the vendors and should not impact that experience of the con, but it is something people pay attention to.

Staff

A strong and knowledgeable staff is the backbone of a convention like C2E2. Some convention promoters focus on guests and vendors and completely forget about the staff. Not so with C2E2. The staff has been friendly and knows where to get information on anything you might need.

Cosplay

I will start posting pictures soon of the cosplay at C2E2. I am impressed by how many great costumes I have seen so far within the first few hours of the show.

If you are in the Chicago area, and are con heading to C2E2 – head down. Even after only a few hours, the show is a hit so far.

C2E2 Homepage

Diamond Retailers Summet News So Far

Apr. 25 News, Toy Collecting no comments

The Diamond Retailers Summit before C2E2 has been a whirlwind so far. There have been many announcements, but these are my personal favorites so far.

Chicago - Diamond Retailers Summit

Chicago – Diamond Retailers Summit

DC Entertainment Essential Graphic Novels & Chronology

For years, DC Comics fans have asked for a reading order for the top graphic novels to come out from the company. Many websites have tried to list their own chronologies, but we should accept DC’s addition as the “official” listing.

The DC Entertainment Essential Graphic Novels & Chronology will be a 128 pages listing the top 25 graphic novels of all time form the publisher and a reading order for those novels. Word on the street is that this publication will be free. This will become an essential publication for everyone’s collection.

Locke & Key: Alpha 1&2

The story of Locke & Key will not end with Locke & Key: Omega. After the finalization of Omega, IDW will give us two special double issues entitled Locke & Key: Alpha #1&#2.

New and Old at IDW at Diamond Retailers Summit

A new Powerpuff Girls comic will be hitting stores in September. In October, IDW will be launching Samurai Jack. November will see the introduction of a new Ben 10 line.

I received confirmation on X-Files: Season 10 which will clear up some questions going around about the upcoming June title from IDW. Season 10 will take place after the last movie, not right after Season 9. As a huge “X-Files” fan, this was one of the important issues I wanted cleared up during the Diamond Retailers Summit.

“R.I.P.D.” at Diamond Retailers Summit

I was a little concerned about the “R.I.P.D.” movie. Dark Horse showed the trailer, and it was pretty damn awesome. I can see the trailer alone bumping the comic up at least a few notches on the Diamond industry statistics ratings.

Worst Experience at Diamond Retailers Summit

The ladies and gentlemen from Diamond have been awesome, but I found an area where the company can improve the Diamond Retailers Summit next year. Please, don’t serve powdered eggs for breakfast again.

Man of Steel Will Not Resurrect DC Comics Movie Arm

Apr. 23 TV & Movies no comments

“Man of Steel” comes out in a few months, but I am not expecting the movie to resurrect the movie arm of DC Comics. “Man of Steel” might kick start the future movies coming out from DC Comics, but it will not completely turn comic book fans eyes to the company’s movie plans. There is only one thing which could potentially resurrect the motion picture arm of DC Comics.

Man of Steel

Man of Steel

Why “Man of Steel” Can’t Do It

No matter how much money “Man of Steel” brings in, people will still be talking full-force about Marvel movies. One movie alone could not turn comic book fan’s minds off of decades of behavior from the comic book company which remains in second place.

Broken Promises

“Man of Steel” will not make comic book fans forget about the decades of perceived broken promises from DC Comics. There have been rumors for years about various movie projects potentially being worked on at DC Comics which never came to pass. Instead of looking at the potential projects for what they are (potential projects), many fans look at them as broken promises which DC Comics was unable to deliver on.

Marvel’s Salt

Marvel has discussed many potential movies in the last five to six years, and delivered on many of them or plans to deliver on them in the next few years. Every single time Marvel opens production on a new movie, it ads salt to the wounds at DC Comics. Fans are reminded about how many years we have been hearing about a potential Justice League movie without DC delivering. Marvel gave us “The Avengers” and made us forget about the JL for a short time. “Man of Steel” might simply remind us of the “broken promises.”

“Man of Steel” might kick start a new generation of DC Comics movies, but will not steal the thunder from Marvel. Following through with plan for upcoming movies from DC Comics might make us forget as long as DC can deliver something better than “Green Lantern.” Only time will tell.

See our Superman page on Amazon

Importance of Comic Book Stores

Apr. 23 Comic Book Collecting no comments

There is no denying that forces in the comic book industry continue to attempt to dominate the market with digital comics, but the comic book stores still survive. After half a decade of trying to force digital comics on the collector’s market, collectors continue to make purchases at comic book stores. There continues to be a place for comic book stores and the importance of brick and mortar stores cannot be denied.

Wonderworld Comics

Wonderworld Comics

Community Center

Comic book stores are where you can go to be with people like you who love the same type of entertainment media you do. You might be a DC Comics fan, a Marvelite, or someone who tries to go against the grain and read titles from smaller or independent companies – but you still are among people like yourself when you enter comic book stores. You are still among your own and you are in your community.

Human Interaction

Comic book fans love to interact with other comic book fans. Digital comics will never be able to replicate or duplicate the interaction a comic book collector can have with a knowledgeable comic book store employee or with another fan met inside any of the comic book stores in the country. Digital comics take away that human bond and always negate the basic human need of gaining justification from others of what we are doing. The human interaction you gain with other comic book fans in YOUR type of community center is at the core of the importance of comic book stores.

Not Going Away

Digital comics are not going away anytime soon. You can ensure that the community center found inside comic book stores never goes away. I have met countless comic book fans over the years and I celebrate the bond I have with them. You should to.

C2E2 Coverage and Post-C2E2 Shift?

Apr. 22 Detroit Area Comic Book Store, News no comments

In two days, a delegation from Wonderworld Comics (including myself) will be heading to Chicago for the Diamond Retailer Summit and C2E2. There will be so much happening – I don’t know what I should tell you about first.

Can you find the best C2E2 freebies?

Can you find the best C2E2 freebies?

Interviews

I am lining up interviews with major players in the industry and with special guests who will be at C2E2 this year. Those interviews will begin appearing on this site as soon as I can get them transcribed.

News

During the week, I will be uploading some news commentary articles about what I heard and experienced throughout the week.

Pictures

Yes,  I will be taking pictures throughout the week of the convention and there will be a ton of cosplay pictures taken during C2E2 to share with you.

Surprises?

You will just have to wait to see what surprises I have in store for you. There will be surprises.

What is the Shift?

Some of you have asked me about the shift on WonderWorldComics.com after C2E2 which I have alluded to. Don’t worry, you will still get the same types of articles and commentaries you have read before – but you are going to be getting more of them. The shift after C2E2 will not be away from anything or towards anything new. It will be a shift into a higher gear. Thanks for being along for the ride.

C2E2 Homepage

Would Thor vs. Sandman Be Worst Superhero/Supervillain Pairing Ever?

Apr. 21 Characters no comments

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Free Comic Book Day Guests at Wonderworld Comics

Apr. 19 Detroit Area Comic Book Store, News Comments Off on Free Comic Book Day Guests at Wonderworld Comics

Free Comic Book Day 2013 on May 4, 2013 is quickly approaching and Wonderworld Comics is proud to announce the official lineup of creators and guests!

Free Comic Book Day May 4, 2013 at Wonderworld Comics

Free Comic Book Day May 4, 2013 at Wonderworld Comics

Free Comic Book Day 2013 at Wonderworld Comics

The Free Comic Book Day events will be taking place in our Detroit (Taylor) location from 10:00am until 5:00pm. Not only will you be able to get your hands on the great free comics being offered during Free Comic Book Day, you will also have the opportunity to meet a few comic book legends and commission artwork from our panel of artists. Other special events may be added before the May 4, 2013 arrival of Free Comic Book Day. Monitor this site for any changes.

Dave Santia

Rock and Roll Speed Painter Dave Santia will be astounding guests with his unique brand of speed painting. Santia filled his auditorium at Detroit Fanfare every time he performed. Artwork created by Dave Santia during Free Comic Book Day 2013 at Wonderworld Comics will be auctioned off and part of the proceeds will benefit Blessings in a Backpack. This ain’t just paining – this is Rock and Roll Speed Painting!

Keith Pollard

Keith Pollard is an industry legend who may be known best for his artwork in Spider-Man, but he also made a name for himself drawing panels of pages in comics such as Thor, The Fantastic Four, and Green Lantern. Keith is the co-creator of Black Cat, one of the regular characters to face off against, and beside, Spider-Man.

Arvell Jones

Arvel Jones is another industry legend who has drawn for such titles as All Star Squadron and Superman Family. He was the publisher of one of the earliest comic book fanzines, Fan Informer. He also worked on DC Comics/Milestone Media’s Kobalt and Hardware.

Gary Reed

Gary Reed is the author of the critically-acclaimed Deadworld series. Over his legendary career, Gary has had the opportunity to work on many titles other than Deadworld including Saint Germaine and Sherlock Holmes.  He launched Caliber Comics in 1989 and many of the top comic book creators found a place to grow their talent under his tutelage.

Panel of Artists

Bill Pulkovski, Ted Woods, Bruce Gerlach, and Tony Miello will also be appearing during the Free Comic Book Day 2013 events at Wonderworld Comics. They will be selling prints and creating sketches.

Make sure you save the date (if you have not already) and plan to stop by and celebrate with your friends at Wonderworld Comics. May 4, 2013 is coming on fast. I can’t wait to see you on Free Comic Book Day at Wonderworld Comics!

What is Free Comic Book Day?

A New Star Wars Movie Every Year: Don’t Fret

Apr. 18 News, TV & Movies no comments

So Alan Horn over at Disney stated at Cinema Con in Las Vegas that there will be a new Star Wars movie every summer. I am sure many fans are flipping out in a negative way about having a new Star Wars movie every year, but the anger is premature. As a Star Wars fan myself, I am looking forward to what Disney can do with the franchise since they have already done wonders with another we worried about.

Don't fret about a new Star Wars movie every year.

Don’t fret about a new Star Wars movie every year.

Remember Being Worried About Marvel?

I remember a recent time in history when Marvel fans flipped out about Disney taking over the House of Ideas. We all remember the pictures of Spider-Man with Mickey Mouse ears and Donald Duck with green feathers. Fans fretted about Disney making Marvel a cutesy brand and driving it right down into the ground. What ended up happening? The comics have not been neglected and the movies are pretty damn good.

Marvel Movies

We should not worry about a new Star Wars movie coming out each year because Disney has been able to pull off multiple Marvel movies in a short span of time. “Captain America,” “Thor,” and “The Avengers” all came out in rapidly short succession without a hitch. We are going to be seeing two or more Marvel movies come out in each of the upcoming years. Why can’t Disney be successful a new Star Wars each year?

The Plans We Have Heard

We have heard talk about a new trilogy and at least two spin-off movies. The trilogy parts can come out every two years and the spin-off can fill in the off years. Instead of fretting about a new Star Wars movie each year, we should be hoping for spin-off movies of our favorite characters.

The Possibilities

Personally, I would love to see Disney do a movie from the perspective of the Storm Troopers on the Death Star. I would also love to see a movie based on the stories found in the short story books “Tales from Mos Eisley Cantina” and “Tales from Jabba’s Palace.” Let the smaller characters have time to shine on the big screen. The possibilities are endless if we have a new Star Wars movie each year. Which movie are you hoping to see?

Happy Anniversary Superman – I Still Hate You

Apr. 18 Characters no comments

Today is the anniversary of Action Comics #1, and I find myself writing an article about the 75th Anniversary of Superman. It is ironic how I watched the trailer for “Man of Steel” last night. After watching the trailer, I was upset by the fact I enjoyed it and infuriated by the urge which grew inside of me to see the movie.

Happy Anniversary Superman "Man of Steel" Opening Soon

Happy Anniversary Superman
“Man of Steel” Opening Soon

Superman and Me

I am not a fan of Superman. In fact, I don’t like the characterization of Kal-El at all. Yes, I liked the first two Superman movies from when I was young and I liked the 1990s animated series, but this was where my fandom ended until I saw the “Man of Steel” trailer.

Superman is Too Powerful

In Superman, you have a nearly-unstoppable force for good. He can fly, run faster than almost anyone, has super strength, is impervious to bullets, does not need to breath, has laser and x-ray vision, and can blow freezing cold air from his mouth. There are probably at least half of a dozen powers I did not list, but I gave up counting his superpowers a long time ago. Anyways, I always felt the character had too many powers.

Superman and His Struggles

For many years, DC Comics refused to give Superman a decent struggle in life other than the loss of his race. Throughout almost everything I have read on the character, I have found him to be two-dimensional at best and a character which is as near perfect in his psyche as he is in physical form. This was always bland for me since I was drawn to the character who dealt with their own personal demons such as those created by Marvel or Batman once he went through his emotional makeover in the late-1970s and early 1980s.

The “Man of Steel” Trailer

I tried to stay away from the “Man of Steel” trailer as I knew inside it would simply be another two-dimensional telling of the same story I had heard hundreds of times before. I was wrong. In the short run of the trailer, I found myself drawn into a story in which Superman is struggling with what he is and with the acceptance of those around him. This is a basic portion of what should have been his storyline which has been missing for far too long.

The Result?

Will I see “Man of Steel” when it comes out in the theaters? Yes. Will I become a fan of Superman? Probably not. I might become a fan of the new movie version, but we have to wait to know for sure.

Special C2E2 Deals for Zombie Fans

Apr. 17 Conventions no comments

If you are a zombie fan heading to C2E2 next week (like me), you are going to wonder about the types of deals and exclusives geared towards fans of the shambling undead. Fear not my fiends, there are many surprises in store for fans of the type of creature revolutionized (accidently) by George Romero so many years ago.

Great zombie specials can be found at C2E2 this year

Great zombie specials can be found at C2E2 this year

Box O Zombies

If you have had a chance to check out the Box O Zombies game line, you know that the creatures in the line range from horrific to hysterical. If you find yourself at Booth 1018 at C2E2, make sure you take a look at Zombicbook Guy. This piece works with the iOS mobile game and will fit into any zombie collection. Zombicbook Guy is a con attendee that became infected with more than comic book fever.

Zombie Last Supper Poster

I think I am going to have to make room in my office for the Zombie Last Supper poster. It is exactly what it sounds like. It is a print of zombies feasting in the famous painting of The Last Supper. This will be available for sale at C2E2 at Booth O10 by Erik Arreaga.

Zombie Pop Vinyl

POP! Vinyl toys from Funko are the rage today. They line the shelves at comic book retailers and toy stores across the country. At Booth 1064, Fugitive Toys will have a special POP! The Walking Dead Vinyl Figure. Stop by to see (and/or purchase) the Tank Zombie Blood Splatter POP! Vinyl figure exclusive to this retailer.

Deadworld at C2E2

Are you a fan of Gary Reed’s Deadworld? If not, why not? Stop by his booth (O4) to check out the full line of Deadworld graphic novels. If you purchase one of these zombie masterpieces, you will receive a set of the Deadworld: War of the Dead promo cards. One of these will be signed by Gary. You can also purchase the cards separately for $3.99.

Bloody Rick Grimes and Dead Daryl

There is another special dealing with Funko’s POP! The Walking Dead Vinyls at C2E2 for fans of the comic and the TV show. Check out Harrison’s at Booth 153 for special Walking Dead Daryl and Rick Bloody exclusives. Grab the figures your friends wished they had.

Four Horseman Posters

Ok, the Four Horsemen of the Apocalypse Shadows Over New York poster might be a stretch for a zombie fan at C2E2, but it should still be noted. Remember, many horror movies portray zombies are the heralds of the Four Horsemen of the Apocalypse. Others, state it is their curse. Stop by Booth P7 for these exclusive posters.

If you are a zombie fan heading to C2E2, you have so much to look forward to. Make sure you bring your walking shoes and a pocket fullocash.

For more information on C2E2, please follow this link to the con’s homepage.

The Best C2E2 Freebies for C2E2 2013

Apr. 17 Conventions no comments

If you are planning on heading to Chicago next week, you might find it a daunting task to go through all of the pages and pages of deals to find the best C2E2 freebies. Worry not my friends as I have gone through the pages and talked with some of my friends in the industry to find you the best C2E2 freebies.

Can you find the best C2E2 freebies?

Can you find the best C2E2 freebies?

The Trend

I should start out with a slight digression to point out how it is sad that freebies are so hard to come by these days at comic book conventions. I remember the days (not too many years ago) when you could walk out of a comic book convention with armfuls of merchandise without spending a dime. I am happy to see vendors going through their stock to come up with C2E2 freebies. Hopefully the number of free offerings can grow in the future.

Power Up Scavenger Hunt

The most noticeable of the C2E2 freebies comes in the form of the Power Up Scavenger Hunt. If you download the Official C2E2 Mobile App, you can scan QR codes which will be scattered around the convention. Once you have unlocked the mystery phrase, head over to the Info Desk and whisper it to the attendant for a bago’swag.

258 West Authentic Signatures

Find your way to Booth 1454 for two C2E2 freebies. The good people at West Authentic Signatures will be passing out promo tradings cards picturing Matt Smith (Doctor Who) and Tom Hiddleston (Loki).

Blick Art Materials

Do you think you can be one of the first 25 people to Booth 129 on one of the three days of the convention? If you are, Blick Art Materials will give you a free giveaway.

Gary Reed

If you purchase any Deadworld graphic novel from Gary Reed at Booth O4, you will receive a set of Deadworld: War of the Dead promo cards. There are ten cards in the set, and one of the cards will be signed by Gary himself! You can also purchase the promo card set for $3.99 without purchasing a novel (but you would be missing out on a great story).

Geek City Guide

Stop by Booth #222 and register for the hourly and daily drawings. The Geek City Guide will draw a name each hour of the convention and will draw one name a day for a grand prize. There is no reason why drawings and raffles should not count as C2E2 freebies.

Cat-LE Drivers

Talk to Kevin Bandt or Josh Filer over at Booth T14 about their comic Cat-LE Drivers. Issue #1 will be free during C2E2 so stop by before their stock runs out. This will be a limited print.

Leo’s Lions Den

Booth 1380 should be one of your first stops of the day if you want to snag all of the C2E2 freebies you can. The people at Leo’s Lions Den will be giving out a free comic to the first 100 customers each day.

For more information on C2E2, visit the con’s page by following this link.

Abraham on The Walking Dead: Wait or Celebrate?

Apr. 17 TV & Movies Comments Off on Abraham on The Walking Dead: Wait or Celebrate?

Fans of the comic book version of The Walking Dead are buzzing about what they are considering as the TV introduction of Abraham on The Walking Dead. Many fans I have spoken to in the last few days are looking past the casting for the character of Roy Stark for the show and are declaring Abraham as a new character to be excited about. Should they not be so fast, or are they right on the mark?

Abraham on The Walking Dead?

Abraham on The Walking Dead?

The Information Filtering Around

Horror-Movies.ca is reporting that the creators of The Walking Dead are working on filling a new role. The character will be named Roy Stark and he will be a former military medic whose family was attacked by survivors soon after the zombie infestation.  Stark did things to his family’s attackers The Governor would have never thought of and will be categorized as someone who is on the edge and could be dangerous.

Abraham on The Walking Dead?

As I stated, many of the fans I have spoken to about this news in the last few days are declaring “Abraham on The Walking Dead!” Just because the new character has some of the traits we saw in Abraham, we should not be quick to discuss Abraham on the Walking Dead. The previous occupation and the family attack could be the end of the similarities. Stark could be a bookish media along the lines of Milton and not share any of the fighting aspects of the comic book character many of us loved.

Could this be a Ruse?

Remember, the creators of The Walking Dead on TV have leaked partial information in the past simply to pull a bait and switch. Actually, you could argue that they did not pull a bait and switch at all as they have given us three or four points out of six and forced us to assume the points which were not disclosed.

A perfect example would be when we were told about how Michonne was cast for Season 3 only to be surprised by her appearance in the final minutes of Season 2. Remember, we were told that dozens of characters would die in the Season 3 finale only to find that there would only be two that we were actually interested in.

Abraham on The Walking Dead!

In the case of Abraham on The Walking Dead, part of the information being sent out could be a ruse. They might want us to think they are stealing aspects from the character we know only to surprise us with a familiar face. We might be talking about Abraham on The Walking Dead in the upcoming months. Only time will tell.

Support Boston Comic Con, Support Boston, Support America

Apr. 16 Conventions, News no comments

Tragedy has struck the Boston Marathon, the City of Boston, and the United States as a whole, but Boston Comic Con is committed to standing tall and hopes to prod the phoenix which will rise from the fires of fear and terror.

Support Boston Comic Con

Support Boston Comic Con

I received a note this morning from the organizers of Boston Comic Con which read:

We continue to work under the expectation that the convention will go on this weekend as scheduled. We hope to stand as an example of the resilience of Bostonians in the wake of this horrific tragedy. The many statements of solidarity we have received from fans and guests alike have been very encouraging.

We will have more information in the days ahead.

Thank you for your patience and understanding.

If you are planning on attending Boston Comic Con, do not allow the fear which others attempt to spread keep you away. If you are considering attending Boston Comic Con, think harder about doing so to show your support of not only for the convention, but also for the city, the community, and the American way of life. Become a representation of the superheroes we have grown to love and become a shining force in the community in telling those which hope to cause terror that they will not win this week and they will never win in the future.

This should be your call to action. Light up the Boston Comic Con Facebook page (found here) with your support. Make sure you tweet about the convention and tag their Twitter page (found here). Together, the comic book community can send a message to the world that no fear can overcome the resiliency of good and that nobody can destroy the American will to carve its own future. Support Boston and always remember to stand tall when exposed to the devilish acts which jealousy, envy, and hate can bring.

Visit the Boston Comic Con homepage

Reflection on Passing of Richard LeParmentier – Friend of Wonder World Comics

Apr. 16 TV & Movies Comments Off on Reflection on Passing of Richard LeParmentier – Friend of Wonder World Comics

I am saddened today to hear about the death of Richard LeParmentier, Admiral Motti from “Star Wars: A New Hope”. I had the opportunity to spend time around him and with him at Detroit Fanfare Comic Con 2012, and looked forward to seeing him again at some point in the future. I am distraught by the fact that the hoped-for future encounter will never come to pass.

I have interviewed countless celebrities in the past for various publications and have learned that there are certain aspects which are lacking in too many celebrities. Humility, gratitude, and general grace are human aspects which many celebrities often forget about when they find they are recognized out on the street. I did not find this with Richard LeParmentier.

Richard LeParmentier will be missed by the Star Wars community, and by this fan.

Richard LeParmentier will be missed by the Star Wars community, and by this fan.

At Detroit Fanfare Comic Con, I saw a man who was happy for the recognition he was receiving for the work he did years ago. He saw fans welcoming him with open arms and reciprocated by being as inviting as humanly possible to every convention guest he saw. He was gracious and thanked every person who came to his table. Fans were thanking Richard LeParmentier for his autograph, and he was thanking them for their interest in him and for making him feel special. This is a quality is sadly lacking in many celebrities.

I was able to talk with LeParmentier away from the crowds on a few occasions and found his demeanor did not change when out of the watchful eye of the public. He kept his grace and manner throughout each moment he was at the convention. I have found that a true judge of character in a celebrity is to see how they act when the show lights have gone out. Richard LeParmentier was the same man “with makeup on and without.”

As a fan of the original Star Wars Trilogy, I was very happy to have had the opportunity to meet someone associated with the project which touched so many aspects of my childhood. Richard LeParementier and David Prowse (who was also at Detroit Fanfare 2012) made me realize my life-long fandom of their work was not in vain. LeParmentier will be missed by the community, and by this fan who will remember him as a man who was not overtaken by the importance of the project he worked on.

DC Comics September Villains #1s Offer Interesting Challenges

Apr. 16 Comics no comments

At this point, it is not a secret that DC Comics September Villains #1s are on their way. If the rumors are to be believed, we should expect the villains to take over September each year. While I love the idea of the program, there are two issues DC Comics is going to have to deal with.

DC Comics September Villains #1s are coming.

DC Comics September Villains #1s are coming.

DC Comics September Villains #1s?

A rumor has circulated for months about DC’s autumn swerve will bring September Villains #1 which will tell the story from the villain’s perspectives. This takeover will be line-wide and each of the New 52 titles will be taken over by a villain for one issue. We should assume that traditional numbering will continue after the DC Comics September Villains #1s.

The First Problem

By making a villain the headliner of one of the titles in the DC Comics September Villains #1, DC is essentially declaring a character as the main villain against the traditional headlining character or team. This will be one of those “you will never make everyone happy” kind of moves. If The Question headlines the DC Comics September Villains #1 issue for Phantom Stranger, some fans will argue about the demons of Hell being the Phantom Stranger’s greatest rivals or about how Pandora is often known as the character’s thorn. Superman’s traditional main rival is Lex Luthor. Should DC automatically give fans the expected rival, or highlight someone else who is being pushed at the time? It is really a no-win situation.

The Second Problem

The second problem with the DC Comics September Villains #1 issue series comes next year. Since we had the baddies take over this year, should we expect them this year? If so, if we see a Joker #1 this year, should we automatically expect to see Joker #2 next year? Should we expect to see another villain take over Batman and see (perhaps) Riddler #1 in 2014? DC will need to figure out a plan to keep some type of continuity with the swerve from year-to-year. The plan is to make the villain issue an annual event, but the Big 2 have been known for changing course mid-stream.

The Batman Exception

As a little aside, Batman’s greatest enemy is himself. Nobody can do as much damage to the Big Black Bat as the Big Black Bat. If Joker (the main villain of Bat’s stories) took over during the DC Comics September Villains #1, wouldn’t DC Comics miss their own symbolism?

If DC can pull this off, it could leave Marvel treading water for a month. This is the type of ingenuity could give a surge to the second-in-line company and help it gain some of the market share it has been losing recently. Of course, September is a long way off and anything can happen between NOW and then.

Always Encourage Young Comic Book Readers

Apr. 14 Comic Book Collecting no comments
As comic book collectors and readers, we cannot forget the importance of encouraging young comic book readers. If we do not take steps right now to encourage another generation of readers, we are condemning our favorite entertainment medium.

The State of the Industry

The next time you walk into a comic book store, take a look at the other customers and note their ages. A majority of the customers will be between the ages of 25 and 45. Many of the modern comic book customers grew up in the 1980s and 1990s when comic book reading was peaking. Of course, there are readers who are much older, but there are not many who are younger. Our industry (probably due to the crashes in the 1990s) missed an entire generation of readers. We need to make sure this does not happen again and encourage potential young comic book readers.
Encourage young comic book readers

Encourage young comic book readers

Importance of Young Readers

Younger readers help to ensure the future of the industry. They are the ones who will be filling the stores in a decade or two if we can tap into their potential. They will be the ones who are going to g new money into the industry and help to ensure mics are still being printed well into our golden years. Personally, I want to continue to read new issues of Batman and The X-Men when by body is too decrepit to do anything else and encouraging young comic book readers is one of the ways I hope to do so.

The Joy of Encouraging Young Comic Book Readers

My daughter is 5, and looks forward to new comic books to add to her growing collection. I can guarantee she knows more superheroes than kids ten years older than her. Not only does she have an entertainment medium which does not involve technology, she has figured out another connection with her Daddy. She knows her Daddy loves comics and superheroes, and has allowed herself to be exposed to comics to get closer to me. As her father, I want every possible connection to her I can get.

Don’t Forget

As of this writing, Free Comic Book Day is only a matter of weeks away. The special day takes great measures to encourage young comic book readers and to invite more readers to the industry. This focus should not be forgotten throughout the rest of the year as it will help to grow the industry and ensure a future for the industry we have grown up with.

Wonderworld Comics Nominated for 2013 Will Eisner Spirit of Comics Retailer Award!

Apr. 12 Detroit Area Comic Book Store, News no comments

Wonderworld Comics’ image as being a leader in community involvement and a leader in connecting comic book readers and collectors to the medium they love has sparked interest in the organizers of the Will Eisner Spirit of Comics Retailer Award and will bring positive international attention to the Metro Detroit area.

Wonderworld Comics

Wonderworld Comics

Dennis L. Barger, Jr. and Robert Bowman are humbled to announce that Wonderworld Comics in Taylor, MI has been nominated for the 2013 Will Eisner Spirit of Comics Retailer Award. This is an annual award given during the Will Eisner Comic Industry Awards at Comic-Con International: San Diego. This is the pinnacle award for comic book retailers and simply being nominated is an extreme honor.

A key judging point for the 2013 Will Eisner Spirit of Comics Retailer Award is a store’s connection with the local community. Wonderworld Comics is a founding member of Detroit Fanfare Comic Con, a comic book convention held each October at the Adoba Hotel in Dearborn. This convention created an event named Blood4Comics where fans make donations of blood or money to the Red Cross in exchange for comics. This tradition has carried over to other conventions across the country. Detroit Fanfare Comic Con has also run food drives for Gleaners Food Bank and has contributed to other notable charities.

Scare Bears at our Detroit comic book store

Scare Bears at our Detroit comic book store

Wonderworld Comics is a co-founder and board member of the Shel Dorf Awards held at Detroit Fanfare Comic Con. This award ceremony is named after the founder of the Detroit Triple Fan Fare (the first comic book convention) and the founder of the Golden State Comic-Con which would become Comic-Con International: San Diego. In 2012 and early 2013, the Shel Dorf Awards raised money to purchase and erect a tombstone for the unmarked grave of the industry legend.

Wonderworld Comics is the organizer of the Detroit Organized Retailers of Comics, a conglomeration of local comic book stores which meets each year to discuss fair business practices in the area. The store is also a co-founder of DetroitComicBookStores.com which makes deals with comic book publishing companies to bring special variant-covered comics to collectors in the Metro Detroit area.

Recently, Wonderworld Comics received special notation in the comic book industry for warning other comic book stores in the Metro Detroit area of a group of men who were attempting to pass off counterfeit sketches supposedly drawn by major players in the comic book industry. The store shared its surveillance footage with other stores and the media and was key in helping to convince the perpetrators to return the product and money wrongfully gained from various local stores.

Among the other areas in which Wonderworld Comics will be judged, is the store’s ability to offer opportunities for creators to reach buyers. The diverse inventory at the store exceeds offerings at most comic book stores and is a location where shoppers can find rare and obscure titles right alongside the most popular titles from Marvel and DC Comics.

Wonderworld Comics will also be judged upon its ability to stay informed on the machinations of the comic book industry and its ability to come up with innovative techniques to involve customers. The store’s recently updated website has become a focal point in the comic book industry as it is giving comic book readers and collectors a voice on various issues facing the industry. The site has allowed comic book fans a seat at the table to question the large companies about the decision to introduce digital comics on the same day as the print versions are introduced in the stores and to show their support for brick-and-mortar stores. The site is not only giving collectors a deeper connection to their collections, it is giving readers and collectors connections to the industry at large.

Dennis L. Barger, Jr. is the face of Wonderworld Comics and is known for innovative ways to connect new readers of all ages to the comic book medium. Robert Bowman runs the day-to-day store operations. The store recently held a special event to benefit P.O.E.T. Animal Rescue and is one of the few mid-west Phantom Variant retailers. The store has hosted signing events with legendary creators such as Larry Hama, Gary Reed, and Billy Tucci and new creators such as Rob Worley and Katie Cook.

As for this writing, Wonderworld Comics is working hard to plan their official nomination video which will be judged for the Will Eisner Spirit of Comics Retailer Award. Wonderworld Comics hopes to become the second Michigan comic book retailer (Vault of Midnight in Ann Arbor, MI in 2010) and the first Metro Detroit comic book store to win the award. The nomination has Barger and Bowman, the staff at Wonderworld Comics, the customers in the store elated and honored.

What if Damian Wayne Stays Dead Forever?

Apr. 11 Characters, News no comments

What if Damian Wayne stays dead forever? What if all of the Bat King’s horses and all of the Bat King’s men cannot bring life to Damian Wayne again? Have many of us actually consider the possibility that Bruce Wayne’s son will never put on the Robin suit again? Chances are good that the answer is “few.”

Batman Incorporated

What if Damian Wayne stays dead forever?

We All Know

Right now, we all know that Damian will come back somehow. The most common statement I have heard is that he will be thrown into the Lazarus Pits and come back to life. In Batman and Red Robin #19, we saw Batman try to have his son resurrected through Frankenstein’s power and technology. I have thought about the Trinity of Sin somehow bringing Damian Wayne back to life in the Trinity War crossover coming very soon. But what if he stays dead?

The Greatest Swerve in Decades

Simply put, the true death of Damian Wayne would be the greatest comic book swerve in decades. Technically, the death of a character is not the swerve. The swerve would come in the form of a character staying dead in the comics. It would be more of a slurve (baseball fans will get this reference) than a swerve, and it would be awesome. While I would not applaud the actual death of a character I have grown to care about, I would have to applaud the idea of taking the obvious away and countering what everyone believed would happen.

The Trends

I am sure you have picked up on the trend recently of Bat Family titles giving one major unexpected swerve after another. We all thought Alfred was going to die in “Death of the Family,” but we found we were wrong. We all thought Damian Wayne would be back within an issue or two, but have been proven wrong. We all thought the world would be talking about the proposal a month back in Batwoman, but we were wrong. Er…wait…that last one was not DC’s fault. You get the picture, though. DC is leading us on to expecting something and then crushing our preconceived notions with an unexpected swerve. Good job, DC. You are getting it right.

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Importance of the Official Handbook of the Marvel Universe

Apr. 11 Comics no comments

If you are a comic book reader or comic book collector, you should not pass up the opportunity to pick up one of the Official Handbook of the Marvel Universe issues. Typically, you can find these in dollar boxes or you can purchase them in trade form (look here). These issues (or trades) can give you a greater understanding of the characters you have grown to care deeply about.

The Official Handbook of the Marvel Universe, Deluxe Edition

The Official Handbook of the Marvel Universe, Deluxe Edition

What Was the Official Handbook of the Marvel Universe?

Original published in 1983, the Official Handbook of the Marvel Universe was a series of issues which explored characters in encyclopedic form. A picture or pictures would be given along with the origin, history, and basic information of each character. Marvel introduced a Deluxe Edition to the series a few years later with more information, an Update ’89 a few years later which told about the changes since the Deluxe Edition, and a few other editions over the next 15 (or so) years. DC Comics introduced the Who’s Who? books, but they were not as detailed as what Marvel introduced and did not give the amount of detail to low-level characters which the competitor did.

Know the History

Most of the characters which are making an impact in the Marvel Universe today were around in the 1980s when the Official Handbook of the Marvel Universe was originally introduced. Do you know all of their origins? Do you know who their early enemies were? You will learn the answers to these questions within the printed pages of these issues.

How They Have Changed

I love to see how characters have changed over the years. In the Official Handbook of the Marvel Universe, you can see how outfits have changed dramatically in the last few decades. In some cases, such as with Doctor Strange, you will find that the costumes sometimes barely change at all. In many cases, characters will have gained or lost powers.

Who is That?

There are characters which made impacts in the 1970s and 1980s which have barely been heard from since. Are you familiar with the Serpent Society? How about Angar the Screamer? Do you know how the Interloper fit into the Marvel Universe? You will be exposed to dozens, if not hundreds, of characters you never knew about before.

Who is Coming Next Month?

Marvel likes to go through their archives and bring characters out which have not been seen for years to mix things up. Note how Thanos, the Guardians of the Galaxy, and Ultron have all been dusted off recently. If you have a copy of the Official Handbook of the Marvel Universe, you can know something about the character before many of your friends do. In many cases, the write-up in these issues are larger than those on Wikipedia or even on Marvel’s own wikia.

If you are at a comic book convention, check out the dollar boxes for these issues. You will be glad you did. The Official Handbook of the Marvel Universe will open up doors in the Marvel Universe which you never knew existed.

Is Your Comic Book Collection Too Large to Manage?

Apr. 11 Comic Book Collecting no comments

What should you do if your comic book collection becomes too large to manage? I have seen collections which have taken over people’s houses and others which cost particular collectors tons of money to keep in storage. If you are becoming overwhelmed by a collection, there are certain steps you should take to get your head above water before it is too late.

Comic Book Storage

Is your comic book collection too large to manage?

How Large is a Comic Book Collection too Large to Manage?

The statement, “a comic book collection which is too large to manage” is actually relative to each collector. I have seen people manage collections of over 100,000 issues without a problem while others struggle to keep a collection of around 5,000 issues in check. If you are struggling with your comic book collection, it is probably time for you to realize your collection might be too large to handle.

What is Your Focus?

The first step you need to take is to ask yourself “What is the focus of my collection?” Do you prefer to collect only Marvel titles? If so, what are you doing with all of those unread DC Comics titles? Is the focus of your collection mainly on horror comics? What should you do with all of those superhero titles? If the focus of your comic book collection is on a specific character or superhero, you should separate those issues which do not jive with the rest. A great start is to eliminate any titles from your comic book collection which do not click with the focus of the comic book collection.

What if there is No Focus?

Let’s say you are a general collector who just collects without a specific focus. Take a look through your collection for titles you really don’t care for. If you are not a Superman fan, go eliminate the Superman titles. If you are not interested in Silver Age comics, eliminate those from your comic book collection.

Eliminate Doubles

For the most part, you should eliminate doubles from your comic book collection when it becomes too large to manage.  Of course, if you have reader copies so that you can keep your expensive comics safe, you should keep those. Outside of reader copies, eliminate all of your doubles and triples to help bring your collection to a manageable level.

Transfer to Trades and Omnibuses

Trades and omnibuses take up less room and can eliminate the need to keep chunks of comics if your comic book collection is overwhelming you. Instead of having the clutter of an entire run of X-Factor, I realized it made more sense to simply collect the Marvel Essential X-Factor books. I was able to liquidate a hundred comics from my comic book collection in exchange for 5 books.

Eliminate the Dollar Comics

You know you have dollar comics taking up important space in your collection. Eliminate the low-ballers to make room for those comics which will work as an investment.

There are many ways to manage a comic book collection which has become too large for you to manage. All you have to do is realize your collection is taking over your life and eliminate those issues which do not fit.

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Killing Rick on The Walking Dead Would Be Pointless

Apr. 10 TV & Movies Comments Off on Killing Rick on The Walking Dead Would Be Pointless

When we think about the zombie apocalypse, we think about Rick on The Walking Dead or Rick in The Walking Dead comic. Recently, Robert Kirkman stated in an interview that we could see Rick Grimes die at some point because we should remember that nobody is safe in the world. While some might applaud the creator of the franchise for taking the step and hinting at the potential demise of the story’s central character, this was the wrong time to make the statement about killing off Rick on The Walking Dead, and it was the wrong statement to make.

Rick on The Walking Dead

Rick on The Walking Dead

Coming Off the Season 3 Finale of The Walking Dead

I have only heard of a handful of people who were happy with the Season 3 finale of The Walking Dead. Most fans were very distraught by the lack of closure. This is not the time to release a statement which could potentially upset fans in any way. They are already ticked about how the previous season ended. Don’t add salt to the wound by talking about killing off Rick on The Walking Dead.

Rick on The Walking Dead is the Central Character

Since the beginning of the franchise, Rick has been the central character of the story. To kill the character off, a shift would have to be made towards bringing in a new central character. Look at what happened on The X-Files when that happened. The show plummeted in the final season when Fox Mulder become a background character. Cult shows such as The Walking Dead cannot change central characters without severe backlash.

Middle or End of Life Cycle?

At this point, we do not know if The Walking Dead as a show is nearing the middle or the end of its life cycle. Three years is a long time for a show in this market where most are being cancelled within the first two seasons. This is not the time for a show’s creators to make major swerves such as knocking off Rick on The Walking Dead. The need to figure out what parts of their formula work and modify some minor issues here and there. A major change in the formula now might spike a few fans but will upset others who will feel left out when the formula they grew to love has been discarded.

Death of Rick on The Walking Dead is Change for the Sake of Change

No show, comic book, band, writer, or politician should ever make a change simply to make a change. In Kirkman’s interview, he stated that we always need to remember that any character can die at any time. If he does not believe fans know this already, he is underrating the intelligence of people who watch his show. He has made that point and killing Rick on The Walking Dead would be useless towards driving a point home which people already know. Change should always have a reason and killing Rick on The Walking Dead or Rick in The Walking Dead would be pointless.

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Current Comic Book Teams with Common Problems

Apr. 10 Characters, News no comments

Comic book teams pose challenges which need to be overcome by writers for a successful run. There are issues which are unique to writing comic book teams which are rarely found in comics featuring one superhero or a superhero duo. To gain a better understanding, let’s relate the challenges for comic book teams to current titles on the market today.

Suicide Squad is on of my favorite current comic book teams only because of Harley Quinn.

Suicide Squad is on of my favorite current comic book teams only because of Harley Quinn.

Comic Book Teams with a Team Savior

While it is good to bring favored characters onto comic book teams, the team should not rely solely on one or two characters. If the “Team Savior” falters in popularity, the entire comic can be held back or (in a worst case scenario) become unimportant.

Take a look at Suicide Squad for this example. The title continues to hold onto a spot in the Top 100 via Diamond, but that spot is low on the list. As of the March 2013 numbers, the title was hanging on at the #94 mark. Fans were originally excited to hear about Deadshot making the team, but he could not hold the comic on his own. Currently, this is one of the comic book teams being held together by one character in Harley Quinn. If she loses popularity, or is taken off the title again, I see the Suicide Squad exiting the Top 100 for good.

Comic Book Teams and Problems Introducing New Characters

New characters are introduced to comic book teams all the time and creators often have a tough job developing the character fast enough without taking away from the main characters on the title. Take a look at Goldball in Uncanny X-Men. He has an interesting power in which he can shoot gold balls of various sizes out of his body. If he is not developed quickly, he will be forgotten. Of course, it is even more difficult to introduce new characters when a major storyline such as the X-Men schism is going on.

Too Many Storylines

Batman Inc. is currently on the chopping black and the title has faced major hurdles over the last few months. Batman Inc. suffered from what I call “Avengers Syndrome.” You have a team made up of characters who have the own titles and you have to try to carry over the storylines from various publications while allowing for a storyline in the comic book team title. The result is a comic which has to neglect certain storylines in the character’s lives while picking and choosing on others.

Comic Book Teams with a Revolving Door

The Fearless Defenders worries me since it shares the Defenders title with the team which became known for having a revolving door policy. Every arc, and often every issue, had new team members. Fans were not given enough time to become used to particular chemistries in the book and the team which began as one of the most powerful ever in comics (Doctor Strange, Namor, and Hulk) ended in a hacked failure. Will Fearless Defenders live up to or in spite of the Defenders curse?

Comic Book Teams as a Solo Career Killer

What is going on with Gambit right now? The sales on the title continue to slide. Note, this is not the character’s first solo title and that all of the others have (you can argue this) failed miserably. There are characters that have been developed as team players over the years and are not able to break off on their own. Of course, the opposite of this would be found in Hawkeye, but that can all depend on the writer and the creative storylines given to the character.

Comic book teams are fun to follow as long as they are written correctly. If creators can get over these hurdles, they can create a memorable team which will last and that people will talk about for many years.