Category: News

James Spader as Ultron in The Avegners: Age of Ultron – Thoughts

Aug. 29 News, TV & Movies no comments

So we have an announcement about the casting of James Spader as Ultron in The Avengers: Age of Ultron. In the wake of the announcement of Ben Affleck as Batman, does the announcement of James Spader as Ultron impress me? Oh Hell yes!

James Spader as Ultron in The AVengers: Age of Ultron!

James Spader as Ultron in The AVengers: Age of Ultron!

Simply Put

James Spader could play a rock and I would pay money to see it. Why? The man is a great actor and has proven time and time again in recent years that he is one of the top actors in the business.

He’s Not on My Blacklist

We have seen commercials all summer about his upcoming series, The Blacklist. I remember telling someone a few weeks ago that the previews alone for the series prove how the actor could play an ultimate bad guy. I even went so far as to say that they could cast him as Lex Luthor and I would bypass my hatred of Superman simply to see him in the role. My wife and I are looking forward to watching his new show, and now I have another reason to look forward to The Avengers: Age of Ultron.

But Ultron is a Robot…

Someone is going to make the argument that Ultron is supposed to be a robot. Yes, but James Spader as Ultron is a good move. I am sure he can pull this one off. If he does not, I will wear a Superman outfit one day to work.

Proving Once Again

With James Spader as Ultron, Marvel proves once again that its casting department is much better than the one at Warner Bros. How could I not be happy with that? Congrats DC Comics…this casting announcement will finally take the spotlight off of the major mistake you made by allowing Warner Bros to cast Ben Affleck as Batman. The Marvel Age of Movies continues on.

October Will be a BIG Month for Comics and Fans

Aug. 29 Comics, News no comments

As I am writing this, we are only a few days away from the beginning of September. My mind, though, is focused on October. Sure, the September War is going to be huge for the comic book industry, but we can’t forget that October is going to be one of the best months this year for comic book fans. There are many reasons why I am excited about the month that starts after the September War.

fanfareticketsDetroit Fanfare Comic Con!

Most people’s year starts on the first day of January. Mine begins on the first day of Detroit Fanfare Comic Con. I have attended each of the previous year’s Detroit Fanfares, and the convention is something I wait all year for. In the past, I have covered the event for another site, but as many of you know, I have taken a position on the Detroit Fanfare Comic Con staff so the convention is even more special to me now. We will knock your socks off. Click here to learn more.

The Walking Dead Returns!

We have waited too long to see what is going to happen to Rick and the other survivors. If it were not for Detroit Fanfare Comic Con, Season 4 of The Walking Dead would hold the top spot. I can’t wait to start the new ride the creators will take us on!

AUG130800Daredevil #32

I am really looking forward to Daredevil crossing paths with Zombie, Frankenstein, and the other creatures on the Dark side of the Marvel Universe. From the preview picture, it also looks like he might be saying hello to Werewolf by Night as well. Ohhhh.

The Battle of the Atom and Fantomex MAX?

The Battle of the Atom will still be in full swing. Hopefully this crossover is one we will talk about positively for many years to come. When you add on the fact that Fantomex will be getting a MAX series, I foam at the mouth.

The Occultist #1

A new miniseries from my friend Tim Seeley and Mike Norton will be hitting shelves in October. I pop for dark comics, and this one looks to be right up my alley. I have said it before – I hope Dark Horse is able to spread out from the Star Wars realm, and The Occultist looks like a title which can get them on an interesting track.

Dia de Los Muertos Trade

Many people missed out on Dia de Los Mortos because not many were ordered around the country. I was only able to get my hands on the introductory issue, so the trade will be ready for my purchase. I highly suggest it simply due to the great story by my friend Dirk Manning.

Afterlife with Archie

I have to admit that I have not regularly read Archie titles in many (many) years, but Afterlife with Archie looks like it will be an interesting title. I have had my eye on this for money and can’t wait to get my hands on it.

My Return to the DC Comic Universe

With the last day of September, my personal penalty against DC Comics will be over. The Villain Month allocation will be a thing of the past, and I can pick up wherever I left off on the titles I read.

October is going to be a BIG month for me. Hopefully, it will be BIG for you as well.

Don’t Support Ben Affleck as Batman – Fans Have Been Right Before

Aug. 29 News, TV & Movies no comments

One of the hottest topics in comics right now is the casting of Ben Affleck in the role of Batman. So many are coming to the side of the actor by pointing out certain instances in which comic book fans were wrong about the casting of particular actors in roles in superhero movies. This is a horrible argument against comic book fans because we have been right in our accusation on many occasions.

I Admit Mistakes

Ben Affleck as Batman proves consistency at DC Comics

Ben Affleck as Batman will suck

Michael Keaton as Batman

Heath Ledger as Joker

Hugh Jackman as Wolverine

David Morrissey as The Governor

These are just a couple examples of times in which we complained about castings only to be pleasantly surprised with the final product. I could add RDJ to this list for his casting as Tony Stark/ Iron Man, but I would not be acting honestly with myself. That is one casting I have to admit that I liked from the start because there is no better actor for playing a character which has hit rock bottom than an actor who has hit rock bottom himself. Of course, Tony has not hit rock bottom in the movies yet, but I look forward to seeing it.

Times When Our Positivity Was Right On

I know you are waiting to see some of the names I put down as some of the worst superhero castings of all time, but let’s take a look at some we supported (as a majority) from the beginning and we were happy we were right:

Anthony Hopkins as Odin

Sir Ian McKellen as Magneto

Gerard Butler as Leonidas

Hugo Weaving as the Red Skull

Patrick Stewart as Professor X

Other Times We Were Wrong

There were also times in which we supported certain casting choices in superhero movies in which we were completely wrong. The actor might have been great, but the end product was depressing:

Michael Chicklis as Thing

Halle Berry as Catwoman

Jennifer Garner as Elektra

Kevin Spacey as Lex Luthor

What We Should Look At

Instead of just talking about when we were wrong, or when our positivity paid off, let’s take a look at when we were right about the wrong choice being made:

George Clooney as Batman

Val Kilmer as Batman

Topher Grace as Venom

Shaq as Steel

Nicholas Cage as Ghost Rider

Brandon Routh as Superman

Collin Ferrell as Bullseye

Ben Affleck as Daredevil

The list goes on and on. Remember, too, we were right when complaining about Ben Affleck the first time with Daredevil – I have a feeling we will be right again.

David Morrissey, The Walking Dead, AMC Pilot, and Your Underwear

Aug. 29 News, TV & Movies no comments

Many on the Internet are freaking out about David Morrissey, The Governor on The Walking Dead, being cast in an AMC pilot. They are taking the announcement about the potential show, Line of Sight, which would star Morrissey, as an omen that he will not last very long on the show. Don’t get your underwear in a bunch. This is not a major slip.

The Governor on The Walking Dead

The Governor on The Walking Dead

A Pilot is a Pilot

So David Morrissey was cast in a pilot. How easy people forget that pilots do not automatically become shows. Remember the Wonder Woman fiasco? Pilots are shot all the time, and do not make it out of the gate. There are also times in which pilots are requested, but never get made. David Morrissey could easily shoot the pilot during an off-week of The Walking Dead shooting.

This Could Take Some Time

There could be a very long time between now (the casting) and when the pilot for Line of Sight is actually shot. If AMC loves the series, it could take another year or two before it goes into production. That could give David Morrissey as many as two more years as The Governor on The Walking Dead.

What This Actually Says About AMC and David Morrissey

The pilot for Line of Sight does not mean that we should expect to see David Morrissey killed off of The Walking Dead in the coming months. In actuality, it means that AMC has faith in the actor we have grown to respect for his role as The Governor. It means that he has shown his ultimate bosses that he can deliver.

How Long Do I Expect to See The Governor?

In my opinion, I would be surprised if The Governor lasted past Season 5 of The Walking Dead. I would like to see the creators keep David Morrissey as The Governor, and The Governor as a thorn in Rick’s side throughout this season, and through at least an episode of the next season. Make the death of The Governor a milestone in the show. Make it the big event to open Season 5 of The Walking Dead.

Larry’s Lessons on Collecting: Know The Way Bible?

Aug. 28 Collector's Corner, News no comments

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Big Hero 6 is the Big Dollar Comics Find

Aug. 28 Comic Book Collecting, News no comments

It is time to start combing dollar comics boxes across the country for issues of Sunfire and Big Hero 6, Big Hero 6, and Alpha Flight #17 from Marvel. I have already seen a kick up in interest in this comic and believe it would be a great investment now. Big Hero 6 is about to become the talk of the town and you have the opportunity to be in-the-know before anyone else.

If you see a comic associated with Big Hero 6, buy it

If you see a comic associated with Big Hero 6, buy it

What is Big Hero 6?

Big Hero 6 was originally a superhero team comprised of Hiro Takachiho, Honey Lemon, GoGo Tomago, Baymax, Wasabi-No-Ginger [which sounds tasty], Fred, Ebon Samurai, Silver Samurai, Sunfire, and Sunpyre.

The Oddity of the Premiere

Alpha Fight #17 was supposed to be the team’s first appearance in the Marvel Universe, but a scheduling snafu caused Sunfire and Big Hero 6 #1 to appear on shelves before Alpha Flight #17. So, they had their own title before they were actually formally introduced into the continuity of the Marvel Universe. The team later went on to have their own miniseries without Sunfire.

Why the Interest in Big Hero 6?

Disney is making an animated Big Hero 6 movie which is set to premiere in November 2014. I have confirmed sources which have told me that Disney has already begun purchasing issues of the Big Hero 6 comics for their archives, so there are some issues which are dropping out of circulation. I have no clue how many issues Disney is purchasing, but don’t expect the archived ones to hit the market again.

The Differences

Don’t expect Sunfire or Silver Samurai to be in the Big Hero 6 movie as the main stars are going to be Hiro Hamada and his robot Baymax. The film will have oriental influences as the story takes place in San Fransokoyo (San Francisco and Tokyo). In case you have been living under a rock for your entire life, you know that Disney is the greatest marketing giant of all time and turns almost everything it touches to gold. Turn that gold into a dollar comics box find to remember.

Lazarus #3 is My Pick of the Week!

Aug. 28 Comics, News no comments

Lazarus #3 is my Pick of the Week! If you are not reading this comic, you probably should be. Lazarus is both a breath of fresh air in the comic book industry, it also reminds me of aspects of comics which have been sorely missing from most titles for way too long.

Lazarus #3 is my Pick of the Week!

Lazarus #3 is my Pick of the Week!

What is the Story of Lazarus?

Lazarus takes place in the future. Instead of governments or corporations running the show, society is run by “families.” An easy analogy to make would be that they are like mob families. Instead of using tools of crime to increase or sustain power, though, the families in the Lazarus story use political maneuvers, espionage, and war.

Each family in the story has a Lazarus. The Lazarus is a genetically-enhanced member which is used as the greatest line of defense for the family. In the story we follow, Forever Carlyle is the Lazarus of the Carlyle family. She is a 19-year-old beauty who is trained to kill by any means necessary. Through her genetic enhancement, she is faster, stronger than her size would normally allow, and she can shrug off almost any type of injury.

Lazarus Society

Lazarus makes an interesting social statement in the breakdown of society. There are three basic types of people in the world. Family members stand at the top of the ladder. On a distant second rung, you find serfs, which are the people who do the work for the families. Serfs can be military grunts, specialists in genetics, or simple janitors. At the bottom of the ladder would be “waste.”

“Waste” are people who are not serfs, but still need to be fed. On a positive sociological side, we might say that the society in Lazarus is better than many futuristic societies we have read about in the past in that leaders at least have concern about the masses eating, drinking, and being secure. On the negative site, most “waste” do not have the opportunities to better themselves and the society in this story apparently works to keep the bottom at the bottom.

Complexity in Simplicity

Writer Greg Rucka has created a world very different from our own, but you will not be at a loss if you start reading this series at this point. Differences are not outright explained, but (thus far) woven into the story in a way to guide you into understand what is going on no matter which issue you have started with. We are at the third issue in the series at this point, and it is common for creators to forget about the importance of guiding us to understanding changes by the end of the first issue.

Total Package

Michael Lark runs the artwork in Lazarus. Simply put, I like his style and it is as enjoyable for me as the story itself. I have a few titles I am reading regularly where I am simply holding on because of the story or because of the art. I like being able to hold onto a title for both.

Story in Lazarus #3

Forever is sent by Malcolm Carlyle (her father and the head of the Carlyle Family) to go down to Mexico to parlay proposed terms of an agreement between the Carlyle Family and the Morray Family. She has interesting interactions with Joacquim Morray, the Lazarus of the Morray Family, which might surprise people who might expect the Lazarus of one family to automatically be at odds with another. At the same time, Jonah and Johanna Carlyle continue to plot the usurping of their father while also planning to make sure their sister Forever is not a hassle to their plans. The end of the story gives us a great cliffhanger which will have me wondering what will happen until September 18, when Lazarus #4 comes out.

Extra Depth

I remember years ago when creators used to regularly add a few pages onto their comics to give more information about their characters or the world in which their stories took place. The most popular form of this was through the answering of letters from readers. While some creators still do add a little here and there, I have been happy to see the creators of Lazarus add letters and more information about Forever’s world. This helps to make Lazarus a “total package” which should be much higher on the Diamond Top 100 list.

Comic Book Creators are More Impressive Than Hollywood Celebrities

Aug. 26 Comics, News no comments

Hands down, comic book creators are more impressive to me than Hollywood celebrities.  I have met (and interviewed) multiple Hollywood celebs over the years. I have also had the opportunity to meet (and interview and party with) many comic book creators. There are basic differences between the two types of people which stand out in my mind.

pencilsDon’t Get Me Wrong

I have met Hollywood celebrities which have been great people and hold many of the same qualities as most of the comic book creators I have met. Adam Baldwin, Steven Yeun, and Tony Todd are  great people who have not allowed celebrity to overtake them (at least in my eyes). At the same time, I have met comic book creators which are complete [Censored]. I am just not going to name any names. For the sake of argument, though, I am lumping all Hollywood celebrities and comic book creators together.

Hollywood Celebrities vs. Comic Book Creators: Approachability

I have always found most comic book creators are more approachable than Hollywood celebrities. If you were to try to walk up to Brad Pitt to compliment his work, chances are good he might say thanks, but would spin off to see who he could see. A comic book creator is likely to thank you, and then find out what you like about his or her work along with what your favorites are. I have had few beers with Hollywood celebrities, but have forgotten portions of the night when partying with comic book creators. Don’t believe me? Head to a comic book convention and see how the celebrities act differently than the comic book creators.

Hollywood Celebrities vs. Comic Book Creators: Acceptability

Hollywood is notorious for creating celebrities which are detached from their fans. Sure, they might pop something out on Twitter, but if you think following a star’s Twitter account is some type of actual attachment, you are sadly mistaken.

Comic book creators are more accepting of their fans for various reasons. The comic book market proves time and time again that if your product does not sell, you will not be on the block very long. Sure, there are mishaps and miscues, but the average comic book creator cannot stay around after too many failures. Because of this, comic book creators try to listen to their fans more often than Hollywood celebrities would.

Most comic book creators are fans as well. I have been at comic book conventions where mid-level creators are as nervous about meeting the A-list creators are the fans are. Comic book creators have more of a love for the genre than the average Hollywood celebrity, creators are kids and fans at heart who like to share their favored genre with others just like we do. Don’t believe me? Head to a comic book convention and see how the celebrities act differently than the comic book creators.

Hollywood Celebrities vs. Comic Book Creators: Appreciation

I have many friends who are comic book creators and have heard them say about how a particular fan really made them feel special at a convention. I have heard them talk about how they were overwhelmed by the fans over a weekend or about how they made fans into friends.  Statements such as these show me how appreciative comic book creators really are of their fans. You would be hard-pressed to find a Hollywood celebrity genuinely acting the same way. Don’t believe me? Head to a comic book convention and see how the celebrities act differently than the comic book creators.

Success of The Walking Dead Season 4 Premiere Too Factored to Predict

Aug. 26 News, TV & Movies no comments

The Walking Dead Season 4 is approaching, and people are trying to predict how huge the season premiere will be. Will viewership for The Walking Dead Season 4 premiere set a new record for the show? Will it set a new record for cable? Actually, I see it as impossible to predict as there are way too many factors involved this year.

The Walking Dead Season 4 Premiere Will be HUGE

Yes, The Walking Dead Season 4 premiere will be huge. How huge will be determined by certain factors listed below.

The Walking Dead

Should there be cannibals on The Walking Dead?

Season 4 Hump

The fourth season of a show is often called a “hump season.” At this point, most shows have had a declarable shark jump, but not so (that we can tell) with The Walking Dead. There are very few shows which have had a larger fourth season than third season. One easy example would be The X-Files. Even The Big Bang Theory has a drop from the third season to the fourth. We have to consider that most shows have a fall-off in viewership after the third season.

Fan Dedication

The Walking Dead should be considered with shows such as The X-Files because both shows have/had very dedicated fans who wanted to know everything possible about the show and refused to miss a week due to their dedication and the dedication of those who they talk to who also watch the show. We will see the dedication of the “deadheads” during the The Walking Dead Season 4 premiere. They will be the core audience which AMC will attempt to build on. The number of dedicated fans increases with every marathon of the show, so AMC can pad the premiere numbers a little more with a strong marathon in the upcoming weeks.

Market Promotion

The more marketing AMC does going into the premiere, the bigger it will be. AMC and Image Comics have done great jobs so far in promoting the show. If they let up in the next eight weeks or so, the season premiere will be lacking.

The BIG Wild Card

The wild card which prevents us from being able to say how HUGE The Walking Dead Season 4 premiere will be is the third season finale. It was lacking in closure since The Governor is still alive and it did not give us a cliffhanger which would make us tune in this October. Rick simply letting in a bunch of old people and children did not hold a drop next to some of the cliffhangers the show has become notorious for in the past. Some disappointed fans will not be back next season. How many are disappointed enough to stay away is left to be seen.

New Spawn Movie Could be a Catalyst

Aug. 26 News, TV & Movies no comments

Over the weekend at Fan Expo, Todd McFarlane talked about a new Spawn movie, and about the possibility of it starting shooting as early as next year. The thought about a new Spawn movie got me thinking about which other comic book-based movies should be remade.

New Spawn movie?

New Spawn movie?

The Bar Has Been Set

The recent Marvel movies have set the bar very high for comic book-based movies, and this has to be considered for a new Spawn movie as well as with any remade movie. When looking at most of the comic book-based movies over the years, there are very few which can hold a candle to the current Marvel movies. The easy exceptions which come to mind would be the first two Christian Bale Batman movies, Sin City, the first two Spider-Man movies, and the initial two Superman movies starring Christopher Reeve. Feel free to disagree.

New Spawn Movie a Beginning?

We all know that the Fantastic Four is being worked on for a reboot and I have heard whispers from time to time about a redone Punisher movie. In all honesty, it would be difficult to make worse movies than we have seen in the past with these titles. I see definitive action towards a new Spawn movie would be a catalyst for other comic book-based movies to be remade.

The Good and the Bad

On one hand, we will have some comic book fans who will be upset that newer characters (who have not been in movies) are not being looked at. At the same time, we have the chance of finally having the movies these characters deserve. I hope to see a new Spawn movie in the future, and I hope to see some of the other poorly made comic book-based movies redone as well. As I stated before, they can’t be any worse. Just don’t remake Howard the Duck.

Stan Lee’s Reality TV Show Sounds Interesting

Aug. 23 News, TV & Movies no comments

 

With all of the other news going around today (Ben Affleck, Justice League Canada), you might not have heard about Stan Lee’s reality TV show. The project is being worked on, and the great creator could not talk about much. This sounds like an interesting project.

 

The Jest of Stan Lee’s Reality TV Show

 

During Fan Expo, Stan Lee “let information slip” about an upcoming reality TV show he is working on which will search for the next great comic book writers and artists out there. Contestants will be judged, and voted off when needed.

 

Stan Lee’s Reality TV Show Great for Creators

 

If this project comes to fruition, it will be a great opportunity for lesser-known creators to get noticed. Any opportunity for lesser-known creators to get noticed is a good thing. Even if a creator does not win, he or she might still be picked up on the open market for a particular project.

 

Stan Lee’s Reality TV Show Great for Fans

 

As comic book fans, we can often get pigeonholed in our reading. We might find ourselves only gravitating towards certain publishers, certain writers, or certain artists. We might only look at the comics from a particular “family” and forget that there are other titles to explore. Stan Lee’s reality TV show could open all of our eyes to new styles we had not considered before.

 

Voting on Stan Lee’s Reality TV Show

 

I am interested to see how the voting panel would be made up. Could we see reps from Marvel DC Comics, Image, and IDW share the judge’s table? Would comic book fans be able to do the voting?

 

At this point, I am hoping that Stan Lee’s reality TV show comes into being. It would be a great opportunity for creators, and a great opportunity for fans to be exposed to various types of creators.

 

Justice League Canada 2014: Doomed From the Start

Aug. 23 Comics, News no comments

Justice League Canada will be coming to store shelves next year. As someone with Canadian heritage, I can understand how those living in the land of my ancestors would be proud to have Justice League Canada…until they realize what they are getting.

Justice league Canada is coming

Justice league Canada is coming

What’s Going On?

According to Jeff Lemire, during Toronto Fan Expo, the Justice League Canada team will be comprised of a few A-Listers, some lesser-known heroes, and a new Canadian hero. The team will come together due to the changes happening in the days following the Trinity War and Forever Evil.

Who Will Be on the Team?

While the lineup of Justice League Canada has not officially been announced yet, I have some speculations about the makeup.  The team will most likely not have Batman or Superman as there would be too much upheaval in the DC Universe and fan base if Batman were taken out of Gotham and Superman was taken out of Metropolis. Martian Manhunter, Wonder Woman, and Green Arrow, though, are not locked into U.S. locations, so they are all fair game.

Likely to Move?

I would not be surprised by Katana and Vibe heading to the Great White North. Personally, I would be offended if I lived in Canada and was supposed to get excited about Vibe. Oh, wait….I live outside of Detroit and am supposed to get excited about Vibe. Back to the drawing board people.

I could also see Simon Baz heading there as well. Wait, whatever possessed DC Comics to put something that looks like a ski mask on a black character? I digress.

What I Foresee

I can see Justice League Canada having a push in Canada just like the Justice League of America had here. We will see variant covers with the flags of each Province and territory. I am sure everyone is going to clamber over Nunavut and Manitoba. The title will last six to twelve months and then disappear.

This is Mamma Yamma

This is Mamma Yamma

The Canadian Push

Lemire (who is Canadian) will write the comic, and they are already pushing his Canadian upbringing. They are going to push that this is the best thing to happen to Canadian comics since Wolverine and Alpha Flight. There will be a new special Canadian character created for the series. My vote goes to Mamma Yamma, the talking sweet potato on Kids’ CBC.

The Article Linked Above

The article I linked above on TheStar.com about Justice League Canada points out a limited number of Canadian superheroes and makes it sound like Captain Canuck, Wolverine, and Alpha Flight are Canada’s only claim to fame in the comic book character world. What about Northstar? Did they not know that Sabertooth came from Canada? How about Scott Pilgrim? Hell, what about Deadpool? Sorry, I digress again.

Whoever is added to the lineup for Justice League Canada, the title is doomed from the start. Just think about what Lemire stated in the article when he was asked where the idea came from. He said it was totally Dan DiDio who came up with the idea. Sorry Canada.

Ben Affleck as Batman Proves Consistency at DC Comics

Aug. 23 News, September War, TV & Movies 1 comment

Ben Affleck as Batman! Ben Affleck as Batman! Ben Affleck as Batman!

The big news last night was how Ben Affleck has been given the role of Batman for the Man of Steel sequel. I think this was a fitting decision by DC Comics and look forward to more decisions like this in the future. I love when a company proves it can be consistent.

Ben Affleck as Batman proves consistency at DC Comics

Ben Affleck as Batman proves consistency at DC Comics

Super Hype / Delivery

Ever since the announcement at San Diego Comic-Con International, Batman/Superman has been lauded as the greatest movie endeavor DC Comics has ever undertaken. Fans wondered if the movie could end up rivaling The Avengers and the billion dollar take the first movie had. Delivering us Ben Affleck after all of this hype is consistent to current practice at DC Comics. It is very reminiscent of how the 3D covers were hyped earlier this year and then we were told that there were not going to be enough to equate to supply and demand. In the end, we have a limited number of happy collectors and Ben Affleck as Batman.

Research

I would have expected DC Comics and Warner Bros. to consider all of the past superhero movies made over the years while casting for the Man of Steel sequel. I would have expected them to see how certain roles were cast and how those castings impacted the market. I would have expected them to know what everyone else in the comic book industry knows – Affleck was in Daredevil and the movie is one of the worst superhero movies in the last thirty years.

Now, DC Comics has passed the blame for the lack of 3D Villain Month covers onto the printer by stating that there were not enough materials for the job. Sounds like a lack of research to me. At least they are consistent with not doing the proper research. In the end, we don’t have enough 3D Villain Month covers and Ben Affleck as Batman.

Reception

Yes, there are some running to the side of DC Comics in the “Ben Affleck as Batman” debate raging across the world, but the general consensus I saw across the comic book industry is shock and outrage among the DC Comics/Batman fans and elation among those who do not like the company. This is the same consensus which came out when the Villain Month allocation was announced. Consistency!

Don’t Get Me Wrong

I do not believe Ben Affleck as a bad actor. Granted, he was in Daredevil, Gigli, Armageddon, and Jersey Girl, but he has also given great performances and given us some memorable characters. At the same time, I still see DC Comics winning in market share and dollar share in the industry during the September War. Where the consistency comes into play is that DC Comics could have done so much better if certain steps were taken. DC Comics continues to settle for “on the mountain” instead of “the top of the mountain.”  I look forward to more decisions like this because I have already been prepping my “Image Bumps DC Comics Out of Top 2 in Market Share” article to come out sometime in the future. In the end, we have a poor delivery on Villain Month and Ben Affleck as Batman.

Also See:

DC Comics Villain Month Shortage a Failure

The Strengths of Archie Comic Publications

Aug. 22 Comics, News no comments

Archie Comic Publications has been around since 1936, and has gained much strength over the years. Let’s take a look, as I continue my series on the strengths of various comic book publishers, at the strengths of Archie Comic Publications. While the company has more strengths than these, these are the ones which make the biggest impact in the market today.

The strengths of Archie Comic Publications

The strengths of Archie Comic Publications

Some of the Most Recognizable Characters in Comics

When you ask the average person on the street about comic book characters, most are going to mention Superman, Spider-Man, and other characters from the DC Comics Universe and Marvel Universe. Many, though, would add Archie, Betty, Veronica, and Jughead. Archie Comic Publications can boast of the most recognizable characters outside of the Big 2.

Been There, Done That

Most comic book publishers on the market today are fairly new. Archie Comic Publications has been around since 1936 and continues to learn from mistakes. They have been thee, and they have done that.

Passing Archie Comic Publications On

Many in my generation (GenX) grew up reading the stories of Archie and Jughead, so it is something we can become nostalgic about and pass on to our children. Comics can be extremely violent and sexually graphic, but, as parents, we know our children will not be exposed to things they should not see within the printed pages from Archie Comic Publications. We know they are going to get a story which will teach them lessons and give them a laugh or two.

Generations Ahead of the Times

All of the major comic book publishers are trying to make it in children’s comics right now. Every month, we hear of another publisher trying to break into the growing market which targets the children of comic book readers. Archie Comic Publications has been doing this for decades. While other publishers might be making waves in the children’s market, Archie has owned the lake for years. While titles like Sonic and Megaman might be newer than most of their titles, they are still recognized by children along with the Archie comics recognized by their parents.

Industry Leader in Acceptance

Archie Comic Publications has made headlines in the last few years for the incorporation of GLBT characters into their stories. This should not have been a surprise for anyone since Archie Family comics have taught about acceptance for years. While they might not have had the first LGBT characters, they have the most impactful on the market as a whole.

The Most Fitting Publisher Website Out There

While many of the comic book publishing companies have great website, the Archie Comic Publications website (seen here) is the most fitting out of all of them. The bright vibrant colors, font, and pictures make a site which is instantly relatable to the types of comics they produce. It looks like a children’s site, and it should.

On the Edge of Something Huge

I have a very strong feeling that Afterlife with Archie is going to be much bigger than people are predicting. When you mix recognizable characters with zombies, you will sell comics. There will be collectors who snatch up the Afterlife with Archie issues and decide to check out to see what is currently going on in the regular comics. I would be very surprised if the new venture does not push Archie Comic Publications into the Top 10 in market share. The Big 2 are always on the brink of something big which will “change the universe.” This is Archie’s chance to shine and I have a strong feeling it will.

Archie Comic Publications has been a strong company for many generations. Their current strengths will make sure they stay strong for generations more.

Also See:

The Strengths of Marvel Comics

The Strengths of Zenescope Entertainment

Deceased Marvel Characters I Want to See Brought Back

Aug. 22 Characters, News no comments

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My Decision on Villain Month for WWC and Myself

Aug. 21 Comics, News, September War no comments

After much deliberation, I have decided on how I will personally protest the mistakes made with the 3D covers for DC Comics Villain Month and how I will protest the mistakes on this website.

Forever Evil / Villain Month

Forever Evil / Villain Month

Villain Month Protest on WonderWorldComics.com

During the month of September, and DC Comics titles part of Villain Month will be expect from consideration for my Pick of the Week. This also includes Forever Evil. These will not gain a primary spot for commentary on this page. To make sure that I have a decent number of comics to read during the month, I will be taking suggestions from you as to which comics from publishers outside of DC Comics. More on that within the next few days.

My Personal Villain Month Protest

I am not going to read any of the Villain Month titles during the month of September. While it was a difficult decision to come to, I am even going to be boycotting the Harley Quinn Villain Month title along with those from Justice League Dark, and the Batman Family. I am not interested in giving DC Comics any of my money during the month.

Not to Persuade You

This posting is not being made to persuade you from purchasing the DC Comics Villain Month comics. It is to point out to you the steps I am taking to make sure my voice is heard by the decision makers at DC Comics. By reducing the publicity given to the company by this site, I will be countering the old adage that any publicity is good publicity. No publicity equals negativity. At the same time, not giving DC Comics the $100 some dollars I would have spent on Villain Month products also takes a stab. You are free to join in my protest, figure out your own, or completely ignore any protests and purchase whatever you want. I would never want to take your options away from you.

Batman and Nightwing #23 and Daredevil #30 Both Pick of the Week!

Aug. 21 Comics, News no comments

Batman and Nightwing #23 and Daredevil #30 are both Pick of the Week for me. Both stories were so strong in a similar way that it was hard to choose between the two. I tried flipping a coin, but my daughter ran into the room screaming “It hit the floor, it is mine,” and ran off with the quarter before I could see which way it landed.

Daredevil #30 and Batman and Nightwing #23 both made Pick of the Week!

Daredevil #30 and Batman and Nightwing #23 both made Pick of the Week!

Both are Team-Ups

Batman and Nightwing #23 obviously teams Bruce Wayne and Dick Grayson (I will never get used to calling him Richard), but this issue could also have been entitled Batman and Alfred. I can’t go too much into that as it would give away parts of the story. On the flip, Daredevil #30 teams Daredevil and the Silver Surfer.

Both Contained Stories

Both issues are fairly contained stories. While both draw on elements from past issues in the series (in the case of the Batman title, it pulls from other Batman Family titles as well). Both could be considered as issues which could stand alone from the rest of their prospective runs as they both have a set beginning, middle, and end.

Contained Stories Rare

In today’s market, it is very difficult to find fully-contained stories. Many issues might have a beginning , but you have to wait until the next month for the middle and a few more months for the end of a story. Once arc storytelling took over, many comic book creators and publishers apparently forgot that you can tell a story in one issue. Both Batman and Nightwing #23 and Daredevil #30 were fresh air.

Would Have Purchased Both in Graphic Novel Form

Both Batman and Nightwing #23 and Daredevil #30 are tight stories which pack a ton of information into a limited number of printed pages. Both stories are strong enough, though, that they could have been expanded into their own graphic novels. This is a compliment to the writer of Batman and Nightwing #23, Peter J. Tomassi, and to the writers of Daredevil #30, Mark Waid and Chris Samnee. It is a very difficult task for a writer to create a story which leave you wanting more while satisfying you with what you received at the same time.

Both Have Had Pick of the Week Status

Both the Batman and Robin title and Daredevil have had Pick of the Week status in the past. This should tell you something. If you are not reading these titles, you should be.  Batman and Nightwing #23 and Daredevil #30 are perfect spots to check out these titles if you have not.

Is Batman: The Killing Joke Really Comics Canon?

Aug. 17 Comics, News no comments

One of the hottest topics over the last few days has been the thought that Batman: The Killing Joke was supposed to be comics canon, or should not have been canon. My thought? Comics canon is only what readers consider to be comics canon.

Who Makes Comics Canon?

WTF Certified: The Villain Month allocation

WTF Certified: Canon

Comic book creators do not create canon. Comic book publishers do not create canon. The only ones who do are the readers collectively. There have been many times in which comic book companies have attempted to backtrack on certain aspects of created canon, but it has not worked. You, and I create canon in comics and nobody can take that away from us.

Your Opinion

If you believe Batman actually killed Joker in the final pages of the graphic novel, good for you. I am not going to say that you are wrong because it is what you believe to be true. I might wonder how you accept that Joker continued on in the comics afterwords, but why argue? It is canon for you.

Why the Collectibles Market Continues to Grow Right Now

Aug. 17 Collector's Corner, News no comments

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How WE Will Prevent a Comic Book Market Bubble Burst

Aug. 16 Comic Book Collecting, News no comments

Is there a comic book market bubble? The comic book market has grown considerably in the last few years, and there is typically a burst when markets or types of products grow too fast. Should we be concerned?

The crowds at C2E2 would be much smaller after a comic book market decline. Let's make sure that does not ever happen.

The crowds at C2E2 would be much smaller after a comic book market decline. Let’s make sure that does not ever happen.

Traditional Market Bubble

Usually when we talk about a market bubble, we are talking about a market which has skyrocketed in recent years which is either new or saw unchecked exponential growth. The Beenie Baby market bubbled and burst because people simply realized the babies were not holding their value and were not a viable short-term or long-term investment. The sports card market bubble burst when production was much greater than demand and interested waned.

There Have Been Bursts in the Past

I will be the first to agree that a comic book market bubble is not impossible. We have seen near collapses of the entire industry a few times in the past when the bubbles burst. Overproduction, an unconditional push towards collectability, and drops in the importance of quality in exchange for quantity have all plagued the comic book market in the past. The problem was that these issues had gone unchecked and drove the market down.

Unchecked Changes are Now Impossible

There is a huge difference between today’s comic book market, and the comic book markets of the past. The Internet is something which can save the comic book market from a bubble burst. Sure, there were comic book industry magazines and fanzines in the past – but they could not compete with the speed or distribution of the Internet. In the old days of magazines and fanzines, a writer could write an article about an issue with the comic book industry – but it might takes months before it saw print, Even after it saw print, it might only be read by a few hundred people.

Today, a comic book market commentary can be out for the masses within minutes. Social media can be used to make the topic go viral and get thousands of fans riled up. Gone are the days when comic book shop talk is the fastest and most effective way to pass information about what is going on. Today, those discussions have gone online in article comment sections and forums.

Empowerment of Comic Book Store Owners, Fans, and Collectors

Comic book store owners, fans, and collectors have more of a voice today than they did even five or ten years ago. Store owners realize they can speak up, as do fans and collectors. This empowerment bore this site in particular. We have stated in the past that WonderWorldComics.com is a megaphone for your voice in the comic book industry because it is read by many movers and shakers in the industry and helps in a small way to keep the market in check.

Market Share Mentality

One other aspect which helps to keep comic book market in check is the continuing push in business to be so concerned about market share. While this was always a concern in business, the concern has grown more in the last few decades, and in the last ten years especially. The focus on driving market share forces publishing companies to take risks, but not to flood the market in any way. In a way, the market checks itself.

No Comic Book Market Bubble, But…

Since the days in which the publishers could work unchecked are over. Even though we might not have a comic book market bubble burst, we could easily have a decline. In fact, that decline could be pretty steep. Certain market issues such as the lack of communication from some companies, the push towards digital, the apparent dissing of collectors (which digital comics are since you can’t collect and sell them), the illegal downloading of comics, and other issues mentioned on this site could cause the market to decline. The items just mentioned in this paragraph are areas which this site has hounded on and we are still waiting for the comic book publishers to realize could hamper the market.

Moving Forward

We have to stay diligent. I love the comic book market and want to see it continue on for generations. The only way to ensure that is to make sure that every aspect of the market is checked by someone. We need to self-regulate it to make sure there is not a comic book market bubble burst ever. We all have to stay strong and remember that we have as much power as, if not more power than, the publishers.

Villain Month Allocation Timeline, Questions, Results, and Outcomes

Aug. 14 Collector's Corner, News no comments

Anger is raging across the comic book community due to the Villain Month allocation by DC Comics. A few days ago, I gave a few theories about what could have caused the Villain Month allocation. Let’s take a look at the Villain Month allocation timeline, take a look at the problem, and delve into some of the possible outcomes the market may/will face.

Villain Month Allocation Timeline

The real villains of Villain Month?

The real villains of Villain Month?

The Initial Announcement: June 17 – June24

DC Comics made the initial (and official) announcement about Villain Month at the DC Comics Road Show. Remember, that was the road show to meet with retailers but bypassed most of the retailers in the country…but I digress. At the time, DC Comics pushed Villain Month as one of the hottest events of the year and shed light on the 3D motion covers which would drive collectors crazy with anticipation.

Come Comic Con: July 18 – July 21

At the Retailer Lunch at San Diego Comic Con International, DC Comics Senior Vice President: Sales, Bob Wayne announced that the DC Comics orders for the 3D motions covers had gone out the week before and for retailers to get their orders in as soon as possible. He encouraged retailers to “up” their orders. He also announced that “slight allocations might occur” during Villain Month. This was the first hint at a Villain Month allocation. Dennis, the co-owner of Wonderworld Comics, was at the Retailer Lunch and stated that he had “total faith that Bob Wayne would not under order and that Wayne would know to increase orders to equal demand”

Boston ComicCon: August 3 – August 4

Dan DiDio (Co-Publisher at DC Comics) reportedly told some retailers that there would be a Villain Month allocation and that it could be between 10-40% for certain titles. At this point, there was not an official announcement which went out to retailers, only stories quoting DiDio on select websites.

Last Day for FOC: August 5

FOC is an ordering term which relates to the last Monday retailers can adjust their orders for a particular upcoming week. Monday August 5, 2013 was the last day retailers had to adjust their orders for the first week of Villain Month. While there were rumors about a Villain Month allocation, nothing was officially released from DC Comics about any changes.

2D Covers on the Way: August 6

On August 6, retailers, readers, and collectors officially learned that there would be 2D covers for the Villain Month comics. At the time, I believed that the $2.99 cover-priced-issues were becoming available for those readers who did not want the motion covers or for those of us who wanted to read the story inside without potentially damaging the issue.

Villain Month Allocation Confirmed: August 9

In the late afternoon on Friday, August 9, retailers across the country received an email confirming the Villain Month allocation. They were told that they only had until Monday, August 12, to get their orders in for the 2D covers they wanted to fill in the gap from the allocated 3D covers.

Retailers Scramble: August 9 – August 11

Over the next weekend, retailers scrambled to try to figure out what to do about the Villain Month allocation. Retailers only had a matter of days to review and reformulate the Villain Month plans they had worked on over the summer. More on the problems this caused and the potential outcomes this could cause in a few moments.

Final FOC: August 12

This past Monday, the FOC went out and retailers had to confirm the number of 2D covers they will be ordering in replacement of the 3D covers they were expecting. DC Comics announced that retailers can order as many 2D covers as they want as they will be fully returnable. DC Comics also begins letting retailers know that the Villain Month allocation is happening because of a production issue caused by the lack of materials for the 3D covers.

Questions

  1. If DC Comics hyped the Villain Month covers so much, why didn’t they make sure there were enough materials to make the tens upon tens of thousands of covers which we would be asking for?
  2. If the Villain Month allocation was caused by a lack of materials from another company, why did DC Comics wait until Monday to tell retailers the reason? Standard operating procedure in business is to shift the blame as soon as possible. Why didn’t this go out in the initial email to retailers last Friday? Why were they not officially told something by DC Comics days before the FOC happened for the first week of Villain Month?
  3. Did DC Comics scramble over the weekend to come up with a plausible reason for the Villain Month allocation?
  4. If it comes out that too few were ordered in the first place, does that mean that Bob Wayne will be tossed under the bus?
  5. Did the allocation hit all stores equally or did it only hit particular stores hard?

Problems

  1. The first problem is that most readers and collectors who want the 3D Villain Month covers will not get them. Supply is nowhere close to the hyped demand brought on by DC Comics earlier in the summer.
  2. From what I have seen by talking with various comic book store owners and by looking at the Villain Month allocation numbers for Wonderworld Comics – the allocation is actually lower in most cases than normal orders. Without boring you with a bunch of numbers, in many cases, we will be getting less 3D Villain Month covers than we would normal covers during a regular month. For example, we will receive less Joker #1 3D covers than we sell of regular Batman issues in a basic month.
  3. Retailers are stressed out right now and are already worried about having to deal with angry customers for a problem out of their control.
  4. Ebay is already becoming filled with orders for Villain Month covers selling at 5-10 times cover price. More on this in a moment.
  5. Since retailers had a limited time to rethink their Villain Month plans, mistakes are bound to have happened.
  6. A major problem is that there is a complete collapse of communication between DC Comics and retailers. DC Comics should have had a better contingency plan and should have had a better communication plan. Retailers are being left out to dry.
  7. Forums and blogs are going crazy right now and shedding a ton of negative light on DC Comics. This does not bode well for the comic book industry as a whole when the #2 company in market share is being rocked. The theories about what actually happened, though, are interesting to read.

Possible Solutions?

Of course, the 2D covers are a fix for the Villain Month allocation, but not a significant fix. DC still has weeks before the third and fourth weeks of Villain Month covers have to be shipped. Other possible solutions include finding another company to make the 3D covers or figure out a solutions such as postponing certain shipments until orders can be fulfilled.

Potential and Plausible Outcomes

  1. In most stores, only certain customers will get the 3D covers. Each store will work this out on their own. Some will probably only give the special covers to pull customers or their top customers. Others will sell on a first-come-first-serve basis. The responsibility falls on collectors and readers to contact their local stores to find out the particular policy. Right now, we are working on a plan on how we will work around the Villain Month allocation. More on that in the next few days.
  2. Trust in DC Comics is being eroded. How will readers, collectors, and retailers trust the hype coming out from DC Comics about future special events? The Villain Month allocation is something which will be remembered for many years.
  3. You know as well as I do that there are many fans and collectors who do not read about comic book news online. Retailers will have to deal with customers who blame them for the shortage. This can lead to the wholesale loss of customers for some retailers.
  4. I can see security and theft being an issue at some stores due to the Villain Month allocation. Certain titles are already selling online for 10 times cover price, so this will bring out the thieves and the collectors who will push their way through the store in the hopes of turning a quick profit. This will not only happen the first week of Villain Month, but during each week of the month. This is an entire week of headaches.
  5. Some retailers might not even put the Villain Month 3D covers out for purchase. Some retailers will hold onto their 3D covers since they know they can get more money for them online or at conventions. I would not be surprised if certain covers topped $50 within the coming months and I am sure that speculating store owners see the same potential to increase profits.
  6. The execs at Marvel are probably getting better sleep than they have in months.
  7. Fans, collectors, and retailers are going to backlash against DC Comics. We have to hope the rest of the industry is not caught up in the crossfire. I would hate to look back years from now and think that DC Comics harmed the entire comic book industry with the Villain Month allocation.

Conclusion

The Villain Month allocation is not only the biggest comic book news story of this month or this year. This is one of the biggest upsets and catastrophes in the history of the comic book industry. DC Comics wanted to make waves with Villain Month. The Titanic made a lot of waves too when it hit the iceberg. One day we will look back on the Villain Month allocation and say “That was when DC…”

The Strengths of Zenescope Entertainment

Aug. 14 Comics, News no comments

Zenescope Entertainment is a company which is often overlooked by many comic book readers, but there are certain strengths the company has which should not be overlooked. Even though the sales of the Zenescope titles have not placed the company in the Top 10 in market share, its strengths should not be ignored as they could help to lead the company down the path to more success in the future. So continues my series on the strengths of certain comic book publishing companies.

Zenescope has strengths which should not be overlooked

Zenescope has strengths which should not be overlooked

They Know Their Niche

Most comic book publishing companies struggle for years to figure out their niche or to try to encompass every niche market possible to improve their sales. In the long run, many companies miss the boat because they are too concerned about the waters. Not true for Zenescope.

What is the Zenescope Niche?

Darkness, dark humor, playful horror, graphic violence, and sexuality are the first words that come to mind when I think about Zenescope. These make up the niche market which Zenescope has become successful with. There is a strong market for these areas in comics and the company has been able to build on its niche with titles such as Grimm Fairy Tales and Wonderland. Some readers might state that most of the titles from the publisher are under the Grimm Fairy Tales or Wonderland names, but why veer from what works? It works for Marvel (X-Men, Avengers) and DC Comics (Batman Family, Superman Family, Green Lantern Family), so why not a smaller publisher? Of course, there are other strong titles outside of these groupings such as Robyn Hood which have gained their own followings.

The Variant Market

I see Zenescope as one of the forerunners for reopening the variant market. While the variant market has been present for a long time, it took a lull for many years and is in full force now and strong then it has ever been. The Zenescope fans who would travel around from convention to convention to snatch up every single Grimm Fairy Tales variant proved that the market was ripe again for variants and that more publishers should explore the market.

On Grimm Fairy Tales

A few years ago, I wrote an article for a major website pointing out how Grimm Fairy Tales is one of the truest and purest interpretations of the Brothers Grimm’s work. Of course, many of the stories in the comic are set in a newer or varied age, but they exude the sexuality, dark humor, playful horror, and violence of the original work. Most people don’t realize that the original tales were not written for children. They were originally written for adults and then adapted for children. From a literary prospective, Zenescope is right on the mark with GFT.

Pick Them Out in a Lineup

How many times have you seen a comic book cover and automatically said “That looks like a Zenescope cover?” The sexuality and sensuality portrayed in the publisher’s covers have become synonymous with the publisher and worked as a calling card. Other publishers who use similar covers are automatically grouped in with Zenescope or compared to it.

Adaptations and Licensing

The publisher has also ventured into the licensing market with titles such as Charmed, Final Destination, and Se7en. This is significant because the smaller publisher was able to sell itself to those who owned these rights. This takes a few links out of the armor of the larger companies who wished they would have gotten the rights instead.

The Future on TV

Grimm Fairy Tales: The Animated Series, Wonderland, and The Piper are all being pursued for television deals. These are huge for a smaller publishing company such as Zenescope. If even one deal can be landed, Zenescope could be skyrocketed in market share and the company could become one which makes those at the top of the ladder nervous. I can’t wait to see what surprises the future holds for the company.

Also See:

The Strengths of Marvel Comics

The Strengths of Archie Comic Publications

Learn more about Zenescope here.

Pick of the Week: The Week in Meh

Aug. 14 Comics, News no comments

I cannot sit here in good conscious and give you a Pick of the Week this week. It is not due to my coming back from vacation (remember that I had a Pick of the Week during my vacation). It is not because I am current disgruntled about the Villain Month allocation. It is because I found myself saying “Meh” after every comic from my pull was read.

DSCF1980Why the Meh?

This is a transitional month in comics. I have found August as being a bit of a downer month for the last few years because of the September War when the publishers try to do everything they can to pad their sales in September to take some of the attention away from how Image will be the talk of the town in October with the release of the new season of The Walking Dead. Each issue I read either tried too hard, lacked a reason to come back, or just fell short in the story.

This Transitional Month

Marvel is building up to X-Men: Battle of the Atom and DC Comics is building up to Villain Month and Forever Evil. Right now, the X-Men titles are all working towards telling the story leading up to the great battles they will have during the September War. DC Comics is trying to give some extra story to hold people over past the hiatus which most titles will be taking as we pass through Villain Month. Some comics will take more than a one month storyline hiatus as many DC Comics titles will have a Batman: Year One crossover after Villain Month.

On the Trinity War side, Justice League of America #7 was a bit of a downer because it was a middle issue where certain subplots had to be tied up and the story progressed with little action. This is typical for middle issues, but it was something I was hoping could have been handled better since the Trinity War was built up as a major battle series. Of course, what we have been promised in battles has not come to pass.

Other Shortcomings

The X-Files: Season 10, Constantine, Suicide Squad, Uncanny X-Men, and even Batman were also letdowns this week as publishers attempted to hold stories or transition between one series to the next.

The Shining Star

On a positive side, I finally got to try out Miss Fury #1 and found it intriguing. I will have to pick up some more of the issues to see how the story is going. While it was the best “new” comic I read this week, I could not name a Pick of the Week on a comic which is a few months old.

Hopefully, I can have a strong Pick of the Week next week. All I need is for the publishers to deliver. I know there are many other comics coming out this week, but they are not regulars for me. I have heard great things about Infinity, but, as you might know, I am not one for cosmic storytelling.

Kelly Explores: Geek Girls – DON’T Tell Me I Don’t Belong [Censored]

Aug. 13 Comics, News no comments

Fair warning: I’m about to use a lot of swear words.

I’ve heard a rumor that women don’t belong in geek culture. It’s not a new rumor, by any means; it’s been hanging around for the past thirty years or so, but it’s come back into the spotlight recently. There have been some really awesome responses in the blogosphere to all of this, but I’d like to add my voice to the masses. So let me throw this down for all of you jerks out there (male AND female AND gender-neutral) who seem to think that women don’t belong in your happy little world of geekitude:

This content is censored.

This content is censored.

I don’t need to prove anything to you. I don’t need to have loved something from THE VERY BEGINNING BECAUSE OH MY GOD THAT’S ALL YOU CAN DO in order to be on your level. I don’t need to know every nook and cranny of Doctor Who in order to be a fan. Look, [Censored], I like the show. Matt Smith is my first Doctor. Get over it.

I don’t need to defend myself for claiming to be a geek. I’m getting a graduate degree in [Censored] literature with a focus on comic books and paranormal romance, you self-serving, misogynistic [Censored]. If anyone has the right to claim the geek crown, it’s me. I risk my academic career with every article I write because I think it’s important that geek culture be included in academia. I may not be involved with cosplay (yet, I might add) and I may not be able to name every single incarnation of Green Lantern. But you know what I can do? Research that [Censored] in less than 30 minutes and make you look exactly like the tool you are. So, [Censored] [Censored] and go back to the hole that you crawled out of in the first place.

If you think that it’s EVER okay to tell ANYONE that they don’t belong, you’re part of what’s wrong with the world. Why do you give a [Censored] if someone’s only seen one flipping episode of Star Trek? They like the same damned thing you do, but you don’t want to open up your myopic sphere of “appropriately geeky” in order to welcome them. Newcomers to fandoms have fantastic insight, always. They can look at things differently. They can make you see things from another point of view. If you have a problem with that, you obviously have a problem with expanding your mind and contemplating ideas without absolutely accepting them. What sort of [Censored] philistine do you think you are? Get over yourself.

Furthermore, if you want to claim that “booth babes” are only modeling for attention from men that they wouldn’t deign to be sexually involved with, I have news for you: the sexuality of “booth babes” isn’t any of your [Censored] business in the first place, and your inability to credit a woman who is attractive according to mainstream media with the mere idea that she might actually know what she’s talking about? It’s disgusting. You’re disgusting. Why are you disgusting? Because you seem to be under the impression that women display themselves solely for you. Get a life, [Censored]. And get a clue while you’re at it. If I decide to dress in next-to-nothing or if I decide to dress in a burqa, I’m not doing it for your [Censored] pleasure, I’m doing it because I [Censored] want to. I exist for a hell of a lot more than your spank bank, thanks very much, and my decision to dress a certain way or act a certain way or portray a certain character is done for me. Go worship yourself in the closest pond, Narcissus; we don’t want you here.

I wish I could say I’m surprised by the fact that any of this is still even an issue, but I’m not. Not even in the slightest. Why? Because patriarchy. Because no matter how hard a woman tries to just be herself and express herself, she’s always going to be judged for it. Because when men dress up as Spider-Man and Batman and Wolverine, it’s totally cool; but when a woman dresses up as Emma Frost or Red Sonja or Slave Leia, it’s because she’s a slut who wants attention. Because people still blame women for being sexually assaulted when they dress in a sexy outfit instead of blaming the [Censored] morons who assault them.

Geek culture is for EVERYONE, and it’s supposed to be one of the ultimate safe spaces. If you can’t accept that, maybe you should be the one getting all of the offensive questions.

Tuesday the Last Day for Special Amazon Code

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

Tuesday, 8/13/2013, will be the last day you can use the WONDERCO coupon code in the Wonderworld Comics Amazon store. This will be the last chance you have to get the great collectibles we have online at $25% off. Remember, the discount does not apply to taxes and shipping fees. How much money will you save in the next few days?

Find out Amazon Store by following this link!

Kelly Explores: Do I Wait for the Trade, or Read Single Issues? A Newcomer’s Perspective

Aug. 12 Comic Book Collecting, News no comments

As a comics noob, I’ve run into a few walls here and there in finding things that I enjoy reading. I’m enjoying the current run of Captain America in all of its weirdness, and I was able to pick it up from the first issue. I’ve also picked up the current run of X-Men, Avengers Arena, and Red Sonja, from the first issues. I’m sure most of the readers on this site aren’t comic noobs, but you can read this for the sheer factor of watching a new comic reader blossom and learn as she goes.

Abraham on the Walking DeadI read the current run of Hawkeye in the first volume of the trade that Marvel released, and I loved it. I wasn’t sure if I should continue by picking up additional issues, or if I should just wait for the next trade. This was problematic because 1.) I couldn’t remember which issue ended volume one, and 2.) I didn’t know when the next trade would be released. Obviously, this is information you can get from your friendly comic book store proprietors. And the Internet. But I’m sometimes lazy.

I ended up waiting for the second volume of Hawkeye to come out, and I’m glad I did. I like the feel of a trade better than single issues, and I like the lack of advertising. I hate advertisements with the passion of a thousand fires. But I also like Hawkeye enough to now switch to the single issues, because if I have to wait six more months to find out what happens, I may literally rip my hair out. So, single issues it is. Same for Saga. I. Cannot. Wait. For. More.

On the other hand, I’m also reading Morning Glories, which I enjoy, but I’m not hugely engaged with it. It’s a nice sort of side-read. I don’t mind waiting for trades for Morning Glories because if I were to get the single issues, I’d just have to go back and read the three issues before the current one to remember what the hell was happening.

My cousin wants to start collecting The Walking Dead single issues, numbers 1 through 100, simply to say he has them. He just wants that collection to hold on to. He’s really passionate about it, and I almost feel bad for him because it’s going to cost him a fortune in time and money to find what he’s looking for. So, if you’re a collector or you like the satisfaction of having an intact collection, definitely go for single issues. My cousin is really annoyed with himself that he didn’t start his collection from the beginning, so I guess it’s nice to have that foresight going into a series.

I think I’ll be glad I have the single issues of Captain America. Not for actual monetary value, assuming they ever have any, but because I can look at my collection and have a little smile and think to myself, “Hey, this is what you started out with. Remember?” So here’s how I’ve decided to tackle my own comic collecting:

1.) Always pick up the first issue if it’s a series you think you’ll love.

I’ll give a series 3-5 issues. If I’m not feeling it after 5 issues, but still want to read, I’ll wait for the trades from there on out. It’s less costly and I obviously don’t enjoy the series or the run of the series enough to want each issue as it comes out.

2.) If you just have to see the letters pages, pick up any single issues you can.
There are no advertisements splitting up the action in trades, but there are also no letters pages, which can sometimes be disappointing, depending on what you’re reading. And when those letters pages can have sketches from fans and really insightful info, you’re missing out.

3.) If it’s an older story, just get the trade.
Seriously, who has the time or money to get every single issue of Preacher? I sure as hell don’t, and I love the story. Trades it is.

Do you have your own way to decide between single issues and trades? Any tips or tricks for the comics newcomer? Leave it in a comment!

TV Shows Based on Comic Books: How Many is Too Many?

Aug. 12 News, TV & Movies no comments

How much room does the TV market have for TV shows based on comic books? More TV shows based on comics books are slated for the next few years, but should we be worried right now about market inundation? Can the public support a high number of TV show based on comic books? For this article, we are going to look primetime TV, and not afternoon animated shows as those have been on the market for decades.

The Walking Dead

The Walking Dead

On and Coming Soon

Let’s take a look at the current, and upcoming TV shows based on comic books. We have Season 4 of The Walking Dead and Season 2 of Arrow. Within weeks, we will have the premiere of Marvel’s Agents of S.H.I.E.L.D., and have told about the strong possibilities of Thief of Thieves and Flash.

When

Don’t worry about immediate inundation as it takes a year or two to get a new TV show off the ground. It could be a few years until the comic book market has a firm presence in the primetime TV market. There could come a day when we look to television and realize the market is saturated with TV shows based on comic books and that the market could be ready to burst. I just don’t see that happening in the next year or two.

Other Markets

Even though reality TV has passed its prime, there are still very many on TV. The same could be said for contestant shows such as American Idol and AGT. While these shows might not be pulling the numbers they once did, they are still strong. Essentially, even if the comic book-based market ballooned, it might still hold strength for a long time.

The Transition

I remember when I worked for a few sites analyzing the television market and realized that whenever the market is in a state of flux (between one type of dominant show and another), game shows would flood the market. Note the high number of them right now. I see the network execs just waiting for TV shows based on comic books to take off.

Diversification Can Save

Comic books might be superhero-heavy, but the market is still diversified in other areas. As long as the TV shows based on comics show diversification, the market should stay strong. If we see too many TV shows based on comic books take on a superhero theme, the market could go down quick. We can still have our heroes, but those with super powers could drag the market down. Rick and his crew from The Walking Dead and Oliver Queen from Arrow were strong starters, but we cannot have too many men running around in tights if we want the market to stay strong. As long as the diversity is kept, we could realistically have market dominance.

When Could this Happen?

As I stated before, it takes about a year to two to get most TV shows through production. With all of the networks tripping over each other to get comic book-based TV shows, we might not find an issue until around 2015/16 TV season. As someone who loves the comic book medium, I am looking forward to seeing how the networks deal with TV shows based on comic book and hope they don’t screw it up.

DC Comics Villain Month Allocation: Stupidity or Coercion?

Aug. 10 Comics, News no comments

DC Comics has not produced enough of the 3D Villain Month comics, and has initiated what some are referring to as the Villain Month allocation. Simply put, most retailers are not going to receive all of the issues they ordered. In many cases (including with the case of our Detroit area comic book store), stores will receive less copies than they would in a normal order of a particular title outside of the Villain Month allocation. This has to lead me to two possible theories.

Dunce Cap Comics

Maybe we should refer to DC Comics as Dunce Cap Comics. One particular theory we could point to for the Villain Month allocation is that DC Comics was simply naïve to how much demand there would be for the 3D Villain Month issues. This is horrible to think about because it would mean that the publisher did not have faith in the promotion and that it did not believe collectors and readers would be as interested in the Villain Month issues as in the regular issues. If this is true, people should be fired for poor planning. To this point, I have not heard about anyone being fired, so I must consider the other option.

Deceptive Campaign Comics

The other theory is that they printed too few of the 3D Villain Month covers with the intent of instituting a Villain Month allocation. Maybe the DC should stand for Deceptive Campaign.

There are two possible reasons I could see for this. The first is that the hardcover coming out in December might be less expensive for DC Comics to produce and create higher margins. That would mean that we are being led by a string to purchase a $150 coming out later this year.

The other possible reason for forcing a Villain Month allocation would be to try to push digital comics. DC Comics could easily press through social media that since the Villain Month issues are sold out, readers who want to read what is happening should download the digital versions of the issues. Since DC Comics cannot cut enough into the market with digital content, they will try to force the issue during the September War.

Who The Villain Month Allocation Screws

No matter which reason for the Villain Month allocation is the correct one, retailers, Diamond Comics, collectors, and readers all get screwed. Retailers are going to have to deal with angry customers who don’t understand why there is not enough product to fit demand. Diamond is screwed over because it has to deal with angry retailers who want more product. Collectors are screwed because digital comics don’t hold any value and do not increase over time. Comic book readers are screwed because they are being forced into a medium which has so far, proven it does not work well in the comic book market.

If I were an investor in DC Comics, I would feel screwed as well. DC Comics should be focused on making as much money as possible. Stupidity and coercion to not make for a profitable company.

Who Should Backlash?

Everyone connected to comics should backlash in some way against DC Comics. How people should backlash is up to each person, but a message needs to get across to DC Comics that we are not happy. I am currently considering a few options for this site during the September War to get the point across to DC Comics which I will tell you about in the upcoming weeks. I am not happy with the Villain Month allocation, and you should be raving mad as well.

I say the real villain of Villain Month is DC Comics.

DC Unmakes Phantom Stranger = No Jesus

Aug. 08 Characters, News no comments

What if the Phantom Stranger never existed? Yesterday, I told you how Trinity of Sin: The Phantom Stranger #11 was my Pick of the Week, but I also told you that there was something about the issue I would comment on today. The final panels of the issue showed one of the most historically binding moves ever taken.

The Phantom Stranger

The Phantom Stranger

What Happened?

In The Phantom Stranger #11, the main character, Batman, Katana, and Deadman attempt to draw Doctor Light out of Heaven. If Doctor Light was alive again, Superman could not be guilty for his murder. Living up to his word, the Archangel Zauriel ceased the existence, past existence, and memory of the Phantom Stranger for attempting to pull another soul out of Heaven.

Disclaimer

In this article, I am going to assume religion because Judeo Christian beliefs are weaved into the mythology of the DC Universe. Any statement of religion, and “religious history,” is not an attempt to make you believe. The statements are meant to flow with the assumed history of the DC Universe and particular characters.

Why is this Important?

Remember, the Phantom Stranger is Judas Iscariot and is forced to travel until his debt of sin is paid. If Judas did not exist, there would not have been someone to hand Jesus over to the Sanhedrin. This would mean Jesus would not have been able to carry out His destiny and would have died being recognized as a prophet and not the Son of God.

On the Religious Side

Since Jesus simply died as a prophet, it would mean that the Apostles and other followers would not have had the same drive to spread the Gospels around the world. The Holy Spirit would not have come to them on Pentecost (since there would not have been a Pentecost). No force to spread the Word – no major push for Christianity.

Christianity teaches that Jesus died for the sins of humanity and reopened the gates of Heaven. If Jesus did not die in a torturous way, it would mean that the gates of Heaven had not been opened. This would mean that all of the dead would wait in Purgatory for the Messiah to open the gates to Eternal Salvation.

On the Historical Side

If the spread of Christianity never happened, it would mean the Emperor Constantine never unified the Roman Empire through monotheism. He would not have created the Holy Roman Empire using the power of Christianity to strengthen his empire. He did so in the real world because his empire had become too spread out and was falling apart. If the Phantom Stranger never existed, the Reich that was the Holy Roman Empire never existed either.

The next big issue comes in 1096. If there is no Christian Church unifying Europe, who would have fought in the First Crusade? There would not have been one and the Ottoman Empire would have spread across the Middle East and eventually Europe and Africa. The Muslim religion would have spread unabated by Christianity and would probably have been the dominant religion of the modern world.

What Else?

If Rome did not have the central power of the world through the Christian Church, the world’s banking system would not have evolved the way it did. The Medici, Bardi, and Peruzzi families would not have developed the banking system we have today. The Knights Templar would not have had the power from the Church to create the loan system which they developed over the years. Without an expansionist banking system, the world would have stayed in the Middle Ages.

Lack of Science

Another debatable point would be the lack of science if the Ottoman Empire would have spread without the existence of the Phantom Stranger. The Middle East now, which is essentially the remnants of the Ottoman Empire (especially in Iran), we don’t see the evolution of science. Without the Phantom Stranger in the world, we should not expect science to have developed as an oppressive fundamentalist government does not encourage the free thinking science needs.

Pay Attention DC Comics

If the Phantom Stranger (Judas Iscariot) never existed, we would have never gotten out of the Middle Ages. The Justice League should all be wearing armor and meeting in castles. Bruce Wayne would not be rich which would mean that Batman would not have the cool toys he does. It will be interesting to see how this plays out in the upcoming pages of the Trinity War. Either way, I am sure someone over at DC Comics did not do their homework.

The Phantom Stranger #11 is My Pick of the Week!

Aug. 07 Collector's Corner, News no comments

Nothing (including vacation) could keep me from declaring Trinity of Sin: The Phantom Stranger #11 as my Pick of the Week! As with a few previous picks, there is something I need to discuss in greater detail, but I will save that article until tomorrow as to not spoil it for anyone. There are many points, though, that I can hint to without giving the story away.

Trinity of Sin: The Phantom Stranger #11 is my Pick of the Week!

Trinity of Sin: The Phantom Stranger #11 is my Pick of the Week!

Who is in the Story?

As you can see on the cover of The Phantom Stranger #11, the main players in this story include the Phantom Stranger, Batman, Katana, and Deadman. Don’t worry, the focus of the issue is shared between all four characters.

The Basis of The Phantom Stranger #11

The foursome travels into Heaven in order to find clues as to what is happening to Superman. It is interesting to see the New 52 version of Heavern (well, versions).

What Makes The Phantom Stranger #11 My Pick of the Week?

This single issue makes one of the most interesting single issue shots I have read this year. It explores some new aspects of secondary characters such as Katana and Deadman. At the same time, it gives a glimpse into Batman’s psyche which is sure to be discussed and referenced for many years. The issue also shows why the Phantom Stranger is more important of a character than many give him credit for. If you are a Batman fan, you should pick up this issue for the interesting glimpse into the character’s soul.

Tomorrow

There is a question which is posed in The Phantom Stranger #11 which needs to be explored on multiple levels. Since I am writing this on New Comic Day, I will save my exploration until tomorrow. It is important enough to be added onto tomorrow’s plate. Just don’t tell my wife I am hiding away writing while on vacation.

DC Comics Villain Month Shortage a Failure

Aug. 05 Comics, News, September War no comments

Bleeding Cool is reporting that Dan DiDio of DC Comics has warned retailers at Boston Comicon that they will not be getting as many Villain Month issues as they were expecting during the September War. The allocation could be as high as 40% in some cases. I had such high hopes for DC Comics during the September War, but this announcement is just discouraging.

Forever Evil / Villain Month

Forever Evil / Villain Month

Biggest Event – Period

Villain Month is not only supposed to be the biggest event for DC Comics this year, it has been pointed to as the biggest event of the year in comics. I would go as far as to say that it is one of the Top 5 biggest events in comics in the last five years. With all of the attention being paid to Villain Month, DC Comics should not have problems keeping up with orders.

I Understand

It has been my understanding that DC Comics put the Villain Month issues into production before the month was officially announced. Even if I am wrong, the issues started printing before the orders were placed. If DC Comics is going to hype a particular comic or grouping of comics, it better be sure it has enough to equal out, or at least come close to equaling out, demand.

What Villain Month Allocation Equals Out To

In my mind, the allocation for Villain Month equals out to a complete failure on the part of planning. DC Comics is telling the world that it expected Villain Month to be great, but not as great as it was promoting it to be.

Hell for the Stores

DC Comics is handing a huge headache to retailers by forcing an allocation. I can see stores with lines down the street during the Wednesday openings as comic book readers and collectors push to get all of the issues they want. I can see phones ringing off the hook at some locations which have to tell their disappointed customers that they did not receive all of the issues ordered and having to take the brunt of anger which DC Comics should be dealing with. Remember, comic book stores often deal with the backlash against publishers, but should not have to.

Will This Change My September War Prediction?

Even with the allocation, I still see DC Comics coming out on top of the unit’s sold and dollars sold charts. I still see DC Comics taking a lead for the month in market share. I just don’t see them taking a dominant lead in either. Sure, they will be above Marvel by a few percentage points, but not the double point leads I was initially expecting with Villain Month. DC Comics should still win the September War with Villain Month and Forever Evil. They just won’t slaughter the competition.

Who Are the Giant Books Best For?

Aug. 02 Comic Book Collecting, News no comments

For some reason, the comic book market is becoming inundated with giant books! They are taking over and have the chance of clogging shelves across the country! Who are these books best for??

WTF Certified

WTF Certified

What Are You Talking About?

There is a new omnibus for this comic, and a new “master collection” for that one. There is a new “complete collection” for this comics, and a new “giant-sized essential” for that one. From Chew to Villain Month, to Grimm Fairy Tales, the giant books with 500-1,400 pages are taking over.

Now for Tester Readers

Outside of the giant Villain Month book coming out by Christmas, the giant books don’t appear to be the best purchase for new readers. You know what you are getting into with the Villain Month book, but what about with comes you have not read yet? Let’s say you want to give a particular comic title a try. Let’s say all of your friends are saying that you are going to love it. You should fight the temptation are try it out with a few issues or with a smaller trade than investing $50-$150 off the start. If you drop all of that money and don’t like the comic, how many times are you going to drop a ton of money on one book in the future?

Not for New Readers

By new readers, I am talking about people who are just starting out in comics. They might be on their first trip or second trip to a comic book store. Dropping $100 or more for one book is a little silly to me. Many people will disagree on this with me, but hear me out for a second. If new readers drop $100 or more on a book and don’t like it, why would they come back to comics? A huge hit like this might discourage them in the future.

Who These Books are For

These books are perfect for readers who want to eliminate a hefty number of books from their collections. These are also for people who know a particular title and are comfortable with it. Would I purchase one of these giant books if it were for Batman? Probably. Would I purchase one of these books for a character I just began to follow? Probably not.

Interesting Future

These giant books are not going to go into huge production, so some might see a decent increase in value. Also, since they are so big, they are going to take excess damage over time. This could drive up the collector’s market on them. How many copies are going to look like they are in mint condition after two or three years? Very few.

Our Marvel Avengers Alliance Season 2 Review

Aug. 02 News, TV & Movies no comments

If you are looking for a Marvel Avengers Alliance Season 2 review, you came to the right place. So, I spent a few hours last night playing Marvel Avengers Alliance Season 2, and I have to say that the new season of the game is living up to most of my hopes and expectations, but falls short in a few areas.

The WonderWorldComics Marvel Avengers Alliance Season 2 review is out!

The WonderWorldComics Marvel Avengers Alliance Season 2 review is out!

The Music

Odd that I would start out with talking about the music during my Marvel Avengers Alliance Season 2 review, but I have to. Music needs to set the music for a game or an adventure; the new music does that. While listening to the new music, I get brief thoughts of the original Superman movie, Luke standing on the hill looking at the twin suns, Elliot and E.T. flying past the moon, the closing credits of Indiana Jones, the moments before a James Bond action sequence, and points of dread I a Jaws movie. The hints in the music are perfect and make me want to play the new levels.

New Progression System

I really like the way allows you to work towards two goals at one time. That helps out and prevents you from having to redo the same level over and over again. At the same time, the constant bonus awards pushes you to go further. To this point, I have unlocked five of the stages in the chapter and seen only goals which are not too time consuming or difficult. Since there are many difficult things which need to be done for full completion of a chapter, it is good that the smaller goals are easier.

The New Levels

The new levels hold a challenge, but they are easier than I was hoping they would be – even on Challenge Mode. When you first start out a new level, you compete it at normal level. To accomplish one of the main goals for the chapter, you have to go back and finish the level in Challenge Mode. I like this new addition, but so far the levels are still a little too easy for me (Level 190 with most of my characters at level 12).

The New Bosses

I am so-so on the new bosses. The top level bosses were all used in the first season and third-string characters such as Sugar Man had to be brought out. While it is interesting to see them being used, it feels like the creators were forced to come up short in this area. The fact that Sugar Man is about as difficult as Baron Zemo , this strikes me as odd. If there were great bosses left over from the first string, this part of my Marvel Avengers Alliance Season 2 review would have been better.

Rewards

Another high point in this Marvel Avengers Alliance Season 2 review, is the rewards. I spoke already about the constant rewards, but having the subsections (such as Heroic Battles) allows for more types of rewards and more rewards. I cannot be upset with more awards. Getting new costumes for completion is awesome.

Overall Playability

For me, this section of the Marvel Avengers Alliance Season 2 review is positive, but it might be a negative for newer players. Since I have been playing for over a year, I have most of the characters available in the game. Completing side missions is easy since I have most of the needed characters. Someone who is new would not and would take a much longer time to complete each level, stage, or chapter.

Marvel Avengers Alliance Season 2 Review Rating?

Overall, for my Marvel Avengers Alliance Season 2 review, I would have to give the game an 8 out of 10. If there were better bosses left over for the second season, if it was not so lengthy for newer players, and the new bosses were not ridiculously strong for who they were – my Marvel Avengers Alliance Season 2 review would have probably peaked out.

To read up about most of the changes, check out the Marvel Avengers Alliance app page on Facebook.

Uncle Tom of Mutants – Content vs. Context

Jul. 31 Comics, News no comments

There is going to be hours of talk around comic book stores over the next week about how Cyclops calls Dazzler the “Uncle Tom of mutants” in today’s issue of Uncanny X-Men. People are going to believe the step is too strong in the current push to pacify the word “mutants” and show it as a derogatory term. Is this literary reference too much, is it something to draw the press, or is it to make a strong point? What should we look at with the “Uncle Tom of mutants” line?

I Know I Know…

I do not like to give spoilers, but the “Uncle Tom of mutants” line does not give away the story. Also, it is important to discuss this right now.

Uncle Tom of mutants?

Uncle Tom of mutants?

Who is Uncle Tom?

Uncle Tom’s Cabin or Life Among the Lowly is an anti-slavery novel which was published in 1852 by Harriet Beecher Stowe. It is a book which is banned from many schools because it has course and derogatory language which can be misunderstood if taken out of context. It also deals with a horrible time from our nation’s past which should not be forgotten. Since many of you might not have read the book in school, it makes sense to explain the content behind the “Uncle Tom of mutants” lin.

Uncle Tom is portrayed in the book as a man who is able to hold through his slavery by relying on his religion and hope. In the last few decades, the term “Uncle Tom” and a term which will not be repeated here after “Uncle Tom” have become a derogatory way of stating that an African-American has “sold out” to Caucasians.

In the Uncanny X-Men Context

In the context of how Cyclops used the “Uncle Tom of mutants” reference, he points out how Dazzler, in his opinion, has sold out to the people who are trying to hunt down the mutants and start a war with them. He displays distaste for her, and gives a statement that she is lower than he is. The references is to be disgraceful and shows the prejudice mutants can have for each other in the Marvel Universe.

It was a Wise Move

The words “Uncle Tom of mutants” stuck out on the page for me. I was surprised at first when reading, but realized they fit perfectly in the storyline Marvel is going for. The publishing company is trying to battle hate and separation in the current storyline involving the X-Men and the term fits. I can understand how some might become offended by the term, but the content of the term needs to be overlooked for the context.

The Press

I would not be surprised if some of the major media outlets picked up on the “Uncle Tom of mutants” line. It will be interesting to see if they pick up only on the content, or if some pick up on the context as well.

My Wishlist for The CW DC Universe Interlocking Shows

Jul. 31 News, TV & Movies no comments

With The CW talking about a block of interlocking DC Universe TV shows, starting with Arrow, and then potentially Flash, what other shows would be good for the network? These are my personal favorites which I think would fit the network perfectly.

Justice League Dark #22 is my Pick of the Week!

Justice League Dark #22 is my Pick of the Week!

Suicide Squad

The idea of having a team of criminals working for the government to clean up problems is perfect for TV. Now I am not sure if a character such as King Shark would translate well to TV, but Electrocutioner, Plastique, Cheetah, Deadshot, El Diablo, and many others definitely would. Of course, this would be a perfect opportunity to bring Harley Quinn back to TV as long as she was portrayed better than on Birds of Prey. No Captain Boomerang.

Justice League Dark

Justice League Dark is perfect for The CW since the network has shows which explore the paranormal and horror. Just think about how fit Constantine is fit for TV. Of course, they could bring in Deadman, Madame Zanadu, Zatana, and the rest of the team. Frankenstein might be a stretch, but not when you look at how the network has worked with vampires and werewolves over the years. Of course, this would probably kill the idea of a JLD movie, but I would much rather have a good TV series than a movie anyways.

Wonder Woman

I want to see this curse lifted. I am pushing for a Wonder Woman show. Make the next attempt stick.

The Phantom Stranger

Remember, this is my wish list. You could have the Phantom Stranger helping out new people in danger each week like he did in his original comic. The suggestion would be to not have him be Judas Iscariot on the show. Keep his past a mystery. Too many religious people could get up in arms, and I really don’t like writing about crazed religious people.

Gotham

There has been a rumor batted around about a show which follows the rogues in Gotham. Batman would appear here and there in blurs, but not be the main character of the show. The series would follow the wars of the different gangs. I love the idea. Make it happen The CW.

Katana

Why would I love to see a Katana show on The CW? The same reason I like seeing Katana issues come out every month. DC Comics is trying to make Katana into an important character. They are failing miserably. Sometimes I like to see DC Comics fall down and get humbled. A Katana TV series on The CW would be another instance for me to chuckle.

There you have it my friends. My wish list for the interconnecting shows I want to see come to The CW to fill out the DC Universe block.

Thoughts on New Flash TV Series on The CW

Jul. 31 News, TV & Movies no comments

So The CW is looking at the possibility of having a  new Flash TV series. Barry Allen is going to be introduced this season on Arrow, and will gain his own spin-off if everything goes right. What are my thoughts on a new Flash TV series? [More about that here]

A new Flash TV series? Ok.

A new Flash TV series? Ok.

Haven’t We Done This Before?

Ok, there has been a Flash TV series before, but it should not deter creators from having a new one. I have to admit that I liked the original Flash TV series. There have been multiple Superman shows over the years, but the fact has not prevented future shows from doing well. There have been multiple Batman animated series, but we welcome each new one with open arms. Well, er…not Beware the Batman. Ok, there can be exceptions.

The Greatest Challenge for a New Flash TV Series

I see the greatest challenge in a new Flash TV series is the introduction of his rogue’s gallery. While I think Barry Allen’s Flash is a great character, most of the rogues in his gallery are over-the-top when it comes to shtick. The casual viewer might look at characters such as Captain Cold, Captain Boomerang, and the Weather Wizard and laugh. Of course, a character like Reverse Flash would be awesome for the show, but there can’t simply be one villain.

Second Greatest Challenge for New Flash TV Series

The blur when The Flash is moving quickly is going to be difficult to pull off. Of course this is something easy to do with technology, but pulling it off to where it looks good will be a challenge. If it looks good on the new Flash TV series, it will pay off many times over.

Third Greatest Challenge for the New Flash TV Series

Dominance. Another challenge of a new Flash TV series is going to be dominance of Arrow. There are more fans of The Flash than of the Green Arrow. While The CW is going to want a hit with a new Flash TV series, they don’t want to drown out their other shows. It will be interesting to see how the network deals with these issues.

Flash on Arrow = Jumping the Shark

Jul. 31 News, TV & Movies no comments

Should we officially state that Warner Bros. has confirmed that Arrow will jump the shark this year with the introduction of Barry Allen? If you have been listening to what the creators of Arrow have been saying since before the show officially went on the air, you might be concerned with the introduction of Barry Allen and the Flash in the next season of Arrow.

Arrow on The CW

Arrow on The CW

What was Said

Before the first episode of Arrow aired, Marc Guggenheim, the show’s executive producer, told Blastr that he was not interested in having any of the other major characters from the DC Universe on the show. He explained how his vision was to have a show without super powers, the paranormal, or monsters.

Enter Barry Allen and Flash

Yesterday, HitFix did a live blog of a presentation by The CW’s president Mark Pedowitz about the upcoming season and some of the shows coming out. One of the things he discussed was how The CW plans on having some DC Comics shows in a shared universe. Arrow was the first step, but there will be many more. The next step is that they are going to introduce Barry Allen on Arrow,  give his backstory and have him acquire his powers on the show. So we will see Flash on Arrow. If all goes right, there will be a Flash TV series on The CW shortly.

Jumping the Shark

Typically, when people think about a show jumping the shark, they think about a moment in which a show spiraled out of control and could not be recovered. A variant view is when a show’s creator has to veer so much from the original plan for a show that the show becomes morphed into something which was never intended. Due to the Guggenheim comments, we realize that the introduction of a super power, and the introduction of a main DC Universe character, is a shark jump for Arrow. One season down and the series is already off the intended track.

Mark Waid’s Daredevil #29 is My Pick of the Week!

Jul. 31 Comics, News no comments

With many big issues coming out this week, Daredevil #29 is my Pick of the Week! Batman, Detective Comics, and Flash all have annuals, but paled in comparison. Series such as The Wake, Pandora, and Uncanny X-Men all come out this week, but fell short of what was needed for this week’s Pick of the Week. None could compare with the connection I had with Daredevil #29.

Daredevil #29 is my Pick of the Week!

Daredevil #29 is my Pick of the Week!

When Did Larry Start Reading Daredevil?

For weeks, Steve (from our Detroit area comic book store) has laid little hints and nudges here and there for me to give Daredevil a chance. Over and over again, I told him that I had never been able to connect with Daredevil. There was nothing wrong with the character; I just never had an interest in him. I never made a connection with Daredevil. The fact that Daredevil is being written my Mark Waid finally led me into picking up issue #28. Luckily for me, it appears to be the beginning of an arc.

Larry Likes Mark Waid?

This might come as a shock that I really like the work of one of the greatest proponents of digital comics. I have talked with Mark Waid a few times this year, and disagree with his stance on digital comics, but that does not take away from the fact that I respect his work, and I respect him as a person. I put aside my disagreement with him on this major comic book market topic because his body of work includes many of my favorite storylines. He is a down-to-Earth guy who wants the best for the comic book industry, readers, and collectors.

Sons of the Serpent

Some of you know that I was a big fan of the Defenders when I was a kid. One of the memorable storylines from that title was when they faced the Sons of the Serpent, the Aryan organization which had placed agents in all walks of life. As I got older, I sought out other comics in which the Son of the Serpent were used (The Avengers, Captain America, etc.). I have always liked how Marvel used an Aryan group as an enemy to teach that racism is wrong, but thought they fell short. The problem is that the creators never used them as the long-term menace the group could have become. The Sons of the Serpent would be declared as far-reaching and powerful and then gone in a few issues. The organization ended up not being as powerful as the creators originally suggested, and I felt this was a disservice to the readers who wanted their favorite superheroes to battle the most powerful of foes.

Back to Daredevil #29

If you read Daredevil #28, you know that the Sons of the Serpent are back. The come back in a big way in Daredevil #29, and the organization shows how it can infiltrate society. There is even a reference picture to the Defenders fighting the Sons of the Serpent from their first arc with them many years ago. In this issue we find Daredevil battling against the Sons of the Serpent, and find ourselves asking how powerful the organization really is, and wondering what struggles he will face in attempting to cut the serpent’s head off once and for all. Daredevil #28 and Daredevil #29 appears to be the start of the first Sons of the Serpent storyline in which the organization is shown as a powerful force to be reckoned with.

My Connection

Connecting with a comic is the most important factor in choosing my Pick of the Week. Maybe I connected with Daredevil #29 because of the Defenders reference which took me back to my youth. Maybe it was because it used an evil organization which I always believed Marvel creators came up short with. Either way, the issue kept me turning the pages with anticipation. As I read the last page, I found myself looking forward to the next issue. This is all due to Mark Waid’s writing and the ability he has which I just discovered. Daredevil #29 made me realize Mark Waid has the ability to get me to care about Daredevil for the first time in my three decades of reading comics.

Get the Wonderworld Comics Amazon Coupon Code

Jul. 30 Collector's Corner, Detroit Area Comic Book Store, News no comments

I bet you are here to get the Wonderworld Comics Amazon coupon code. The Amazon coupon code will be active at 4:01AM 7/31 and run through 8/13. All you need to do is enter WONDERCO (case sensitive)when you are going to check out and the 25% discount will apply to all of the Wonderworld Comics Amazon store items in your purchase. This code will not work with items from other company’s stores. You can get to our Amazon store by following this link, or following the ad on the side of this page.

The Wonderworld Comics Amazon Store coupon code is WONDERCO

The Wonderworld Comics Amazon Store coupon code is WONDERCO

Crazy Day

You might not know, but Amazon recently changed many of the screens in the back end where an Amazon store is managed. Also, some of the software changed. The Amazon store-wide sale we were hoping to start today could not happen due to technical difficulties with the new options. We are now offering the Amazon coupon code for the 25% off all of the items in the Wonderworld Comics Amazon store.

You Can Share

The WONDERCO Amazon coupon code can be shared with friends, relatives, neighbors, and enemies. It is my way of saying “Thanks” for helping this site grow so fast. Remember to let everyone know that the Amazon coupon code starts at 4:01am on 7/31 and lasts until 8/13.

Wonderworld Comics Amazon Store

Advanced Tickets Now Available for Detroit Fanfare Comic Con!

Jul. 30 Conventions, News no comments

The advanced tickets sales for Detroit Fanfare Comic Con are now open. To see the official posting, please follow this link. Pricing for tickets is already available. I am told that special packages will become available closer to the show.

The Strengths of Marvel Comics

Jul. 29 Comics, News no comments

There are many reasons why Marvel is sitting at the top of the food chain when it comes to units sold and dollars sold in comic book stores. There are also many reasons why Marvel will continue to be on top. Let’s take a look at the strengths of Marvel and look at some of the new strengths which will be emerging by the end of the year.

Wait…What is This?

Over the next month or so, I am going to be working on a series which introduces you to the strengths of various comic book publishing companies. I spend time every week talking about weaknesses of particular publishing companies, so why not talk about their strengths for once?

I can't get behind Avengers Assemble

I can’t get behind Avengers Assemble

Character Recognition

One of the greatest strengths Marvel has is character recondition. While the average person on the street might not recognize Wrecker or Scarlet Witch, there are many characters the average person can name. Merchandising, marketing, and the movies have helped certain characters become household names. Spider-Man, Captain America, Hulk, Thor, Iron Man, the Fantastic Four, and many of the X-Men are known around the world and continue to bring in money year after year.

Massive Followings

Many smaller comic book publishing companies work hard towards gaining cult followings for their characters and titles. Marvel has been lucky enough to have gained both mass followings and cult followings for particular characters. There are Avengers fans and X-Men fans. There are Captain America fans, Spider-Man fans, and Wolverine fans. On the smaller side, Deadpool, Moon Knight, Black Panther, Doctor Strange, and many others have gained cult followings which will continue to develop for many years.

Marvel Known as Marvel

Not only does Marvel have name recognition through characters, the mainstream audience knows Marvel. The company name is synonymous with comics, superheroes (or as they say super heroes), and major motion pictures. If you talk about some of the smaller comic book publishing companies, the general public might not know what the particular company does. Mention Marvel, and everyone knows which company you are talking about and what that company does.

The Movies

When your company puts out one of the top three highest grossing movies of all time, you have something to brag about. The Avengers was the monetary highlight of Phase 1, but there is so much more to come in Phase 2 and beyond. Who knows how much money the movies will generate when all is said and done?

All-Ages Access

There is a huge push right now towards bringing children into comics, but Marvel has had all-ages access with their characters for years. I remember playing Avengers when I was a little child. My daughter (who is 5) knows many of the Marvel characters through cartoons such as Ultimate Spider-Man which can give humor for an older crowd, but keeps comedy light and straight-forward enough for kids to laugh at. Since one particular show came out before the huge children’s push in comics, couldn’t we say that The Super Hero Squad Show was ahead of its time?

Games

Marvel has also dominated the video game market for many years. Granted, there have been a few turkeys, but many of the Marvel games have become classics over the years. Now, you know that I love Marvel Avengers Alliance, but I still consider Marvel vs. Capcom 2 as the best fighting game ever.

Upcoming

Marvel has many strengths which have not even fully seen the light of day year. Age of Ultron was a huge series, but Infinity and X-Men: War of the Atom are still coming. Marvel’s Agents of S.H.I.E.L.D. is being predicted as being one of the top shows on TV (at least in viewership) over the next year. If these projects hold to expectations, Marvel is going to stay on top for a very long time.

They Have Learned from Mistakes

I am not going to hold back – The House of Ideas has made mistakes in the past. On the bright side, it is still around. Strengths such as being able to learn from mistakes, the ability to change course when changes happen, and being able to come back from certain death are qualities we look for in superheroes. Marvel has displayed these qualities for many years.

Am I forgetting Something?

If feels like I am forgetting something.  Oh ya…Marvel is owned by Disney which is the biggest marketing giant in the world! Many of us were concerned when that marriage happened and wondered if it was made in Hell. Man, were  we wrong. I could have also added on all of the other types of merch they put out, but I did not want a special section for toy, one for t-shirts, one for lunchboxes. They are the leaders for more reasons than I could list in this space. “Nuff said.

Also See:

The Strengths of Zenescope Entertainment

The Strengths of Archie Comic Publications

Special Guest Announced for Saturday’s King Kon!

Jul. 29 Conventions, News no comments

Saturday August 3, 2013 will be the next King Kon, and there is a special guest to announce for the new show.

Talent-CaldwellWho is Coming?

Talent Caldwell is the creator behind the upcoming animated web comic, Superunknown. In the past, he has worked for Top Cop Productions, Marvel, and DC Comics. He was also one of the first employees at Aspen comics. He is noted for his work on Fathom, but he has also worked on such titles as Action Comics, Gen13, Spectacular Spider-Man, and WildC.A.T.S. Caldwell will be selling prints and taking commissions for original work. You can learn more about Superunknown through his website, which can be found by following this link.

Still Tables Available

As of this writing, there are still a few tables available. Contact DLBARGER313@gmail.com for more information about the $40 tables available.

To learn more about King Kon, please follow this link.

25% Off Everything in Wonderworld Comics Amazon Store 7/30-8/13!!!

Jul. 28 Collector's Corner, Comic Book Collecting, Detroit Area Comic Book Store, Gaming Collecting, News, Toy Collecting no comments

Announcing: The Wonderworld Comics Amazon Store Sale! 25% off everything in the Wonderworld Comics Amazon store from 7/30/2013-8/13/2013! Thousands of total products going on sale for two weeks via a special coupon code!

Click picture to be taken to the Wonderworld Comics Amazon store. The sale prices will begin appearing on 7/30.

Click picture to be taken to the Wonderworld Comics Amazon store. The coupon code will appear on 7/30.

What is Going On?

Starting on Tuesday, 7/30/2013, every single item in the Wonderworld Comics Amazon store will be 25% off via coupon code. There are thousands of different products we have listed, and they will all be on sale – no exclusions. The sale will run until Tuesday 8/13/2013. The discount will not apply to required taxes or shipping.

This is Your Chance!

This is the best time to expand your collection – no matter what you collect. Now is the time to search the Wonderworld Comics Amazon store for that back issue you need to finish a run. Now is the time to check around in the Wonderworld Comics Amazon store for that toy you wish you still had from your childhood. Now is the time to increase the power of your deck with cards from past expansions you missed out on. The Wonderworld Comics Amazon Store Sale gives you the opportunity to purchase that rare figurine you have wanted on your mantle for months.

Start a Collection

Have you considered starting to collect a certain item, but prices have been a little out of your reach? Now is the time to take that first step. With the Wonderworld Comics Amazon Store Sale, you can start your collection and learn what joys collecting can bring.

Two Days to Plan

Click the button above to be taken to the Wonderworld Comics Amazon store. While there, search for the items you want and plan your attack. On Tuesday, the coupon code will appear for the Wonderworld Comics Amazon Store Sale. Order up your items early. Many of the rare items might be gone within the first few days (if not hours) of the Wonderworld Comics Amazon Store Sale. What are you waiting for? Get planning!

Bankrupt by Beanies and Collecting Lessons to Learn

Jul. 27 News, Toy Collecting no comments

The front page of Yahoo! highlighted an article about a short film entitled Bankrupt by Beanies which introduces the world to a family who became addicted to purchasing Beanie Babies in the mid-1990s. The family went to great extents to purchase as many Beanie Babies as possible and believed the collectibles would eventually appreciate to a point in which they could pay for the children’s education. There are many lessons to learn from Bankrupt for Beanies.

244838_f520Collecting for Money is a Gamble

If you are collecting items with the intent of selling for more money in the future – you are gambling. In Bankrupt by Beanies, the highlighted family perceived a future value much higher than the current value. They obviously did not perceive how the market might change. We should never assume our collections will pay for future events because nobody can predict all the permutations of a market.

Bankrupt by Beanies and Market Bubbles

Any market can burst. In this case, the Bankrupt by Beanies family did not pay attention to particular signs which point to when a market would burst. This is not necessarily their fault as most collectors don’t pay attention to certain indices such as a constant flood of “special” or “unique” offerings, the emergence of a high number of market speculators, the influx of non-traditional collectors, prices instantly rising on all new releases, and statements from manufacturers on how collectible certain items are. The market bubble burst, and thousands of people were left holding the (bean) bag.

Obsessive Collecting

I am a strong supporter of having goals, and doing what you can to achieve them but there is a line between trying to complete collecting goals, and becoming obsessed with a collection. Bankrupt by Beanies explains how the family in question would recruit neighbors, keep their kids out of school, and go through plans of attack on the days new Beanie Babies came out. This all points to obsessive collecting. When you believe that picking up $5.95 colored bags of  beans are more important than your children’s education – there is something wrong.

Non-Traditional Collectors

I never trust markets which focus on non-traditional collectors. You don’t have to watch Bankrupt by Beanies to know that the Beanie Babies market essentially focused on middle-aged women and the elderly. For many of these people, Beanie Babies were the first collectible they ever “invested” in. Items such as Beanie Babies and Llyadro figurines try to drag in people who are naïve to collecting in order to make as much money in as short of an amount of time as possible. We need to be quick to identify these markets and avoid them.

In the End

Bankrupt by Beanies should be a reminder to all collectors to be cognitive of warning signs in the collector’s market. Don’t get burned like this family did.

 

My Thoughts on Comic Book Kickstarter Projects

Jul. 26 Comics, News 1 comment

“What do you think about comic book Kickstarter projects?” This is a question I have been asked to cover on the website for months. Kickstarter has offered a market for creators to get new projects off the ground, and many people wonder if it is a legitimate form of raising money to get started or to grow in the industry. The problem is, everyone, my jury is still out on comic book Kickstarter projects.

kickstarter-logoGiving More Opportunities than Ever: Positives

Kickstarter is giving more people opportunities than ever before. This is both a good thing and a bad thing. On one hand, comic book Kickstarter projects can give chances to people which never got their start in the industry. It could be that they never got that key interview because they could not get past an editor’s gatekeeper. It could be because a style they work in is something completely different than what is on the market right now. It might be that a creator was just too scared to go before a legend or editor in the first place. Comic book Kickstarter projects can give these deserving people their chances.

Giving More Opportunities than Ever: Negatives

I have noticed a steep incline of comic book Kickstarter projects. In my opinion, most of what I have seen does not deserve print, but I have also seen many exceptions and seen projects which I have pushed for. I worry that the market might become inundated with comic book Kickstarter projects and it could kill that method for struggling creators to get noticed. At the same time, I am concerned by any issue which could potentially damage the comic book industry in any way. If Kickstarter takes off even more than it is, could that shake up the market share?

Finding Funding: Positives

Finding funding is something difficult to do, and even comic book Kickstarter projects typically struggle to get over the hump they need to pass. On one hand, I applaud those with successful comic book Kickstarter projects because they are able to convince the end purchaser to support the project. These creators help to promote their passion by putting their projects online for support or open criticism.

Finding Funding: Negatives

I don’t know if it is because I was raised by parents who were born in the days before WWII, or if it because I have worked hard to get what I have – but the other hand of the funding question for comic book Kickstarter projects leaves a sour taste in my mouth. In a way, Kickstarter can be overly easy to raise money. In fact, many projects raise loads more money that was expected. It is almost like the public is simply handing some people the win. This is not the case with all comic book Kickstarter projects – but the few spoil the rest for me. Maybe, in time, my mood will change on this question, but it is the hardest hump for me to get over.

My Wishlist for Marvel NOW Two

Jul. 25 Comics, News no comments

During SDCC, Marvel announced Marvel NOW Two which will relaunch comics just like the original Marvel NOW. While I have yet to see anything official as to which comics will be relaunched, there are some which I hope will be. This is my wish list for Marvel NOW Two. Don’t take this as law or as a preview, only my wish list.

MarvelLogo.svgMarvel NOW Two: Doctor Strange #1

Doctor Strange #1 makes sense since it is no secret that Marvel is working on a new movie for the character. Marvel needs to make sure modern comic book readers and collectors know him as much as possible before his movie comes out. One of my favorite characters of all time needs to spread out from the current storylines he is in and into his own title.

Marvel NOW Two: Ant-Man #1

Along with Doctor Strange, Ant-Man also has a movie on the horizon (even though the House of Ideas obviously forgot this idea during SDCC. Why wasn’t the movie mentioned on a regular basis?). Pym was just a main character in the Age of Ultron storyline so it is time to bring him out on his own since modern readers know who he is.

Marvel NOW Two: Power Man and Iron Fist #1

Both characters are highlighted in Ultimate Spider-Man, so why can’t there be a new Power Man and Iron Fist #1? Marvel needs another strong African-American headliner, and can find one in Luke Cage. Sweet Christmas Marvel – Sweet Christmas!

Marvel NOW Two: Werewolf by Night #1

A new Werewolf by Night series would have me popping as this under-appreciated horror comic was one of the best Marvel ever put out. In fact, it is one of my favorite horror comics of all time. If DC Comics can make money with the Dark Universe, Marvel should be able to cash in with Jack Russell.

Marvel NOW Two: Tales of the Zombie #1

Since I am in “Marvel Horror” mode, how about Tales of the Zombie #1? Bringing back the original zombie comic would be a direct slap to The Walking Dead. Tales of the Zombie bridges into DC Dark Universe territory and into battling Image’s biggest seller. This list was not created in any order, but if it was, Tales of the Zombie would be very high.

Marvel NOW Two: Excalibur #1

With Nightcrawler coming back real soon to the Marvel Universe, let’s bring back Excalibur. That gives Marvel the ability to use many of the currently-untapped secondary characters from the series and can help build Captain Britain up once again.

Marvel NOW Two: Alpha Flight #1

I am sure I am starting to lose a few of you, but what is wrong with giving the big Canadian team some love? Sasquatch needs to be brought into the modern day. Simple as that.

Marvel NOW Two: Silver Surfer #1

With Guardians of the Galaxy and the rest of the cosmic storytelling push right now at Marvel, it would make sense to bring in Silver Surfer and give him his own title once again. Just look at how much buzz there was when Dennis sold the Silver Surfer statue to the people at Hardcore Pawn. Push aside the fact that Marvel cannot use the character in a movie and just bring us Silver Surfer #1 in Marvel NOW Two.

Marvel NOW Two: Punisher #1

Don’t worry about making Punisher a Max title; just give him his own regular title once again. I was surprised that Punisher was not part of the initial Marvel NOW launch. Marvel NOW Two is the perfect time to bring him out again.

Marvel NOW Two: Marvel Fanfare #1

Why Marvel Fanfare? It gave the publishing company the chance to highlight a character which has been overlooked or try out a new character which might be introduced in the normal comics in the near future. It was a proving ground for both characters and creators and should be back with the same force it once had.

Marvel NOW Two: Moon Knight #1

Moon Knight is one of the most interesting, and downright coolest of the Marvel characters. Make him hunt the streets once again. Bring him back to win a new generation of fans. You know it will do better than Gambit did.

King Kon is Returning in a Little Over a Week!

Jul. 25 Conventions, News no comments

The calendar is counting down the days until we have the third King Kon of the year. The bulk of con season is winding down, and we continue to get closer to Detroit Fanfare. King Kon is a great show to visit in the interim. King Kon will be at the same location it has been at (Allen Park Key Masonic Lodge) from 10:00 am – 4:00 pm on August 3, 2013. Admission for adults (anyone over 12 years old) is still on $2, and kids still get in free.

Many of you have been to a King Kon over the last year and know it gives a great opportunity to find great deals. If you are looking for comics, you will find great deals. If you are looking for trades, you will find great deals. If you are looking for toys, you will find great deals.

I enjoy working at King Kon as it is a great way to meet many of you and discuss comics, toys, and the website. Also, I end up going home with a handful of items which I have found from dealers. I look forward to seeing many of you there.

If you are a dealer and are interested in a table, there are still a few left. Contact Dennis at DLBARGER313@gmail.com for more information. Tables start as low as $40 for the day.

Our King Kon Page

King Kon on Facebook

Pictures by Amber Palmer

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Musings of an Early Magic: The Gathering Player

Jul. 25 Gaming Collecting, News no comments

After all these years, I find it interesting how Magic: The Gathering is still a popular game. I remember the early days of the game and have to laugh at what we used to do to play and how naïve the world was about the game and where it would go.

When I First Played

I remember being introduced to the game at Gen Con in 1993 when Magic: The Gathering was only being sold at a handful of locations across the country. I went to try it out in a small room along with other players. I would learn later that the black-bordered cards I was handed (Beta) would be worth money to collectors.

Magic_the_gathering-card_backMy First Thoughts

I remember thinking that the game was fun, but there would be no way that it would grow the way it did. I remember tapping lands during my second game of the day and thinking “gamers will play this during lulls in their Dungeons & Dragons game session.” I thought of it more as an aside game than something major which everyone would soon be playing.

Weeks Later

A few weeks later, the hobby shop near my college got their first shipment of the cards and those of us who had played Magic: The Gathering picked up some packs and helped our gaming friends at school learn how to play. Within a few days, we were all playing the card game and neglecting our traditional gaming sessions.

The Pricing

In the early days, something funky happened with distribution which made some cards more rare in certain areas. While Moxes were rare, many of us in Mid-Michigan were getting them more often than other rares. We even found that gamers in Ohio were not getting very many Lord of the Pit cards. We decided to make some money.

A few months after we all started playing, we went to a card show in Ohio where people were selling Magic: The Gathering cards. Lord of the Pit was going for about $50 which a Mox or Black Lotus was going for about $35-$40! I remember selling a dealer five Lord of the Pit cards for $160. He was happy because he knew he could make $90 off the deal by the end of the day. Too bad I didn’t drop all of that money on the Moxes he had for sale.

Protection

The short order for Legends, which was under-produced, made us realize that some cards could skyrocket in price overnight. Some of us who were fortunate enough to have purchased Legends packs decided it was time to figure out how to protect the cards we were playing with. We looked at sheets from card collecting books to get our answer. We cut up sheets of card sleeves to put our cards in. If we were not using decks with ultra-expensive cards, we would not use the sleeves. Simply pulling out a sleeved deck at the time made people shudder and prepare to lose. When dedicated card sleeves came out, we kicked ourselves for not getting a patent.

SuperGames

We sometimes tried to figure out various ways to play Magic: The Gathering to prevent ourselves from getting bored. I remember when we came up with the SuperGame (done as one screwy word). What you would do is pick one color and make a deck with at least 300 of that particular color. We would start the game with 200 hit points. Sometimes, these games would last until the next day as one of the rules was that you could sacrifice three cards in your hand (at any time) and reshuffle your graveyard into your deck.

Communication

There were not websites dedicated to Magic: The Gathering. There were message boards we could access from the school computers. It might take three minutes for a page to load, but we did not complain. We found checklists which people had posted along with tips for creating new decks. Printed checklists sometimes went for $5.00 at shows since not everyone had Internet access in 1993. The good ol’ days.

Wonder Woman’s Lasso of Truth vs. the Phantom Stranger

Jul. 25 Characters, News no comments

In the pages of Justice League Dark #22, Wonder Woman puts her Lasso of Truth around the neck of the Phantom Stranger. She uses the Lasso of Truth to get him to tell her if he knows who is at the behind the evil which has tainted Superman. He exclaims that he does not know. This act is interesting and leads me to think of some very interesting questions.

Click here to see the full panel run.

Click here to see the full panel run.

Could the Phantom Stranger Have Lied?

The Phantom Stranger states that he does not now know who has tainted Superman, and this does go along with his story so far in the Trinity War and in his own comic. Could he have lied, though? There are two interesting reasons why he might have gotten away with fibbing even with the Lasso of Truth around his neck.

The Void

First off, he is an entity inside of a person’s body and has a soul which could be described as “void.” During Gail Simone’s run at Wonder Woman, she wrote that the characters Lasso of Truth can look into a soul. Granted, that was pre-New 52, but if that holds true, wouldn’t the Lasso of Truth have “short-circuited?” Any character which has ever tried to take a peek into the Phantom Stranger’s soul (in pre-New 52 and New 52), has suffered negative consequences. Is the Lasso of Truth powerful enough to protect Wonder Woman from the power leak which usually happens when someone attempts to touch the Phantom Stranger soul or psyche?

Whose Power is it Anyway?

Secondly, the Phantom Stranger has been granted powers from God. Well, we assume the little dog who talks to the Phantom Stranger, and travels back and forth from Heaven, is God. Would that mean the Lasso of Truth works against the power of God? Would that mean Wonder Woman’s infamous weapon of justice is more powerful than the Judeo-Christian deity? DC Comics has taken a road to quietly discuss the power of God through the Phantom Stranger. Are they backpedaling, or is this an instance of the creators not thinking about the implications of a few panels?

If He Did Lie

Of course, DC Comics could easily state down the road that the Phantom Stranger did know who it was that was behind all of this. An explanation could be given that the Lasso of Truth could not work against the Phantom Stranger due to the void in his soul or because of the powers granted by God. Of course, they would have to figure out a way to make the character have known beforehand without breaking the current chronology. Should we all send messages to DC Comics to find out?

Diamond Getting into Tchochke and Worse (Updated)

Jul. 24 Detroit Area Comic Book Store, News Comments Off on Diamond Getting into Tchochke and Worse (Updated)

Diamond (along with its sister company Diamond Select) held the Diamond Retailers Summit before C2E2 which was was attended by retailers, their workers, and some of the top minds in the comic book industry from every publishing company. I was disturbed by some of the new product which will be hitting the Diamond Previews catalogue in the upcoming months. Here comes the tchotchke.

Happy Man Bottle Opener and Happy Man Bottle Topper from Diamond Select?

Happy Man Bottle Opener and Happy Man Bottle Topper in Diamond Previews?

Diamond Kitchenware: Really?

Diamond is expanding their kitchenware line so get ready for more forks, knives, pizza cutters, and salt shakers emblazoned with the face of your favorite superhero or sci-fi character. The sheer number of characters which could be placed on these items puts a retailer (i.e. comic book store owner) at a disadvantage. You might hear one fret about only having room for one pack of ice trays and not knowing if the space should go towards trays with the likeness of the Tardis or a Stormtrooper or maybe Superman…no, no…Batman…or?

Comic Book Stores the Next Party City?

Diamond Previews will begin carrying party favors just like you would find in the big party stores. You can get Spider-Man paper plates and napkins. I am sure Avengers piñatas will be on the market soon along with Aquaman balloons and Green Lantern whistles. Large chains like Party City are able to purchase these types of products for less due to the number of stores involved and the number of sales. Comic book stores cannot compete with that and would be pushed out of this particular market due to the cost and selection differential.

“Great Kid, Don’t Get Penisy”

The most disturbing point about the possible tchotchke-fication of comic book stores by Diamond comes in the form of the “Happy Man Bottle Opener” and the “Happy Man Bottle Topper.” These little guys have an extra member standing erect between the legs and apparently will be displayed in upcoming issues of Diamond Previews.

New in Diamond Previews from Diamond Select?

New in Diamond Previews?

I, in good conscience, cannot suggest we carry these phallic items in our Detroit area comic book store. I, in good conscience, cannot hand a previews to a child to look at if these phallic items are displayed inside. Should retailers now place an “18 and Over” sign next to Previews so readers know when Diamond is displaying items we don’t agree with? All I can think of are the immortal works of Peter Griffin, “Great Kid, Don’t Get Penisy.”

Please stand with us and send a message to Diamond Previews to drop the “Happy Man” line.

Diamond

UPDATE

The current issue of Diamond Previews (#299) has Happy Man in it. Now, retailers have to make the decision to make the issues available to children or not. We should all be discouraged by the thought that there are some who would wish to turn the all ages comic book stores into Spencer Gifts stores. It is a sad day to think that the publishing companies are trying to be more inviting to children while Diamond is going to try to get stores to sell phallic symbols.