Tag: marvel

Visions of the Future in Uncanny X-Men #13

Oct. 16 Comics, News no comments

I am sure people are going to be buzzing over the next few days about some of the future statements which were made in Uncanny X-Men #13. I could pull quotes directly from the text, but sadly I would break my rule about giving spoilers. Instead, I will point out my thoughts about the implications of these quotes and how they impact the readers.

Uncanny X-Men #13

Uncanny X-Men #13

Unique Vision into the Future

Uncanny X-men #13, and the Battle of the Atom crossover as a whole, give us unique foresight into the future. Certain statements, especially those in Uncanny X-Men #13, make us wonder how the Marvel Universe will change in the upcoming years. How are we led to certain events which the characters are discussing?

On the Positive Side

Many readers will look at these statements in a positive light and will be driven to read more in the upcoming years in an attempt to have their questions answered. They will keep Uncanny X-Men #13 and will refer to it from time to time as we get closer in upcoming years to seeing the statements made in the comic come to fruition. Those who missed out on the issue will do what they can to snatch it up. Will the price skyrocket? I doubt it, but it might increase slightly over the years and jump when we get to some of the future events mentioned within.

On the Negative Side

Some of the future statements made in Uncanny X-Men #13 will upset some readers and could cause a divide between these readers and Marvel/Bendis. While I don’t see a significant number of readers flowing this path, we can all think of people who would toss the comic saying “Forget this…they are making this [Censored] to crazy.” Of course, ticking off readers is part of the business, but it is a reality I don’t like to see.

Bendis More Important?

We have all heard that Bendis has plans going out years in advance. If he is setting these plan further into motion through the quotes in Uncanny X-Men #13, he might be a genius. He might be declaring his worth to Marvel in these quotes and almost forcing them to keep him on the books for many years to come. Honestly, who else could tell his stories better? Smart move.

Things Can Change

I don’t want to, but I have to point out that the statements within Uncanny X-Men #13 are visions of the future which could change over time. Hopefully, though, we have a wild ride from here on out.

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Thane – Son of Thanos Info Release Strong for Marvel

Sep. 23 Characters, News no comments

Over the weekend, Marvel Avengers Alliance unlocked Thane as a playable character players can attain. He was listed as the Son of Thanos. Today, word is getting around that Marvel AR is announcing Thane as the Son of Thanos as well. This is an interesting marketing move by the company.

MarvelLogo.svgSpike Interest in Supplemental Products

First off, Marvel is giving average readers a reason to play Marvel Avengers Alliance and look into Marvel AR. This is a strong move. Readers are going to see the Thane / Son of Thanos information as information being released first in areas other than comics or comic book news and information sites.

Increase Numbers

By increasing the number of people playing Marvel Avengers Alliance or using Marvel AR, Marvel sets a stronger foothold in the comic book community. This is good for Marvel and for any partners they have on the game and the augmented reality software.

Cause DC Comics Slip?

Marvel has sent a message to DC Comics and all other publishers that they are releasing important comic book information outside of the printed pages and outside of general press releases. This puts publishers in a bind as they have to figure out a way to compete with Marvel Avengers Alliance, Marvel AR, and any other supplemental medium Marvel has for releasing information. When companies are rushed into decisions, mistakes are made.

I think releasing the Son of Thanos information through these variant methods was a strong move by Marvel. Who knows – we might see releases such as this in future games, or even on a show like Marvel’s Agents of S.H.I.E.L.D. Marvel is changing the game in a slight way, but it is a game changer none the less. I am intrigued by the idea of the other companies on the block trying to figure out how to battle this move.

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Why I Am Not Reading Infinity

Sep. 19 Comics, News no comments

Someone asked me recently why I have not been covering Infinity. As I have stated in the past, I am not a fan of cosmic storytelling in comics. I tried reading Infinity, and just did not have a connection to it. It is not that I found anything wrong with the writing or the art, it was just that I could not connect with it.

marvelinfinityI try not to force myself to read anything. If I know I am not going to have a connection with a comic, why should I spend my money on it?

For years, people have tried to get me into reading cosmic comics. I have tried, but it is a subgenre of comics I cannot get attached to emotionally. As a horror movie fan, it is easy for me to attach to “Dark Universe” titles from the Big 2, The Walking Dead, The X-Files, and Kolchak: The Night Stalker. These types of titles are easy for me to transition to. At the same time, I have strong connections to Batman, the X-Men, and many other superhero characters and teams so I find reading these comics fun.

Yes, I preach trying something new – but for me, cosmic comics just don’t work. I have been trying them for three decades, and the furthest I can get is the Fantastic Four. Oddly, I have no problem reading comics which take place in Hell, the Astral Plane, or in some other strange dimension. Maybe I can sit down with Kelly so she can psychoanalyze me to see why I just don’t care for cosmic storytelling in comics. Until then, enjoy reading Infinity, and other cosmic stories.

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All-New Marvel NOW – I Like the Idea

Sep. 09 Comics, News no comments

Marvel is launching Marvel NOW 2 under the title of All-New Marvel NOW. If you want to read more into it, you can check out the story in USA Today. One aspect you should note in the article where it states “That “Marvel NOW” initiative was such a success that they’re doing it again.” This is key to what you are about to read.

MarvelLogo.svgWhat is the All-New Marvel NOW

Yes, Marvel NOW was very successful for the publisher. It gave new readers a great place to start reading about their favorite superheroes without completely rebooting titles or characters. Instead of going through a reboot, Marvel NOW gave us a reorganization. We should expect nothing less than the same with All-New Marvel NOW. I could go through a listing of what titles will be changing, but that is not the point of the article.

Been Done Before

Marvel was able to calm the naysayers with Marvel NOW. I have already heard various naysayers come out against the newly-named All-New Marvel NOW. These naysayers believe the company should not follow track in something which has worked. Instead, they should try something different. To them, I ask why?

Seen Them Try Over Without Success

We have seen Marvel try something multiple times which did work either time such as giving Gambit his own series. In this case, though, Marvel NOW was one of the best ideas in recent years with comics. Why not work it again with more titles? Anyways, who ever said that Marvel NOW was simply a one-shot deal? I simply see All-New Marvel NOW as the next step in a successful move by the publisher. Even at worst, All-New Marvel NOW will still be better than anything DC Comics is currently trying 9cover shortages, driving creators away in droves, insensitivity towards those touched by suicide etc.).

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Looking Forward to X-Men: Battle of the Atom

Sep. 01 Comics, News, September War no comments

X:Men Battle of the Atom starts in just days, and I doubt that I could be more excited than I am right now. The concept of the crossover is ingenious and the build to it has been fun to watch. After the disappointment of the Trinity War (read here) and my upset state over the DC Comics Villain Month allocation, I need a good crossover to get me back in the comics swing.

X-Men: Battle of the Atom

X-Men: Battle of the Atom

What is X-Men: Battle of the Atom

In X-Men: Battle of the Atom, the X-Men of the future come to the present to get the current X-Men to send the X-Men from the past back to the past. Try saying that really fast.

Interesting Difference – X-Men: Battle of the Atom and Trinity War

As we approached the Trinity War, many fans were asking all types of questions and were nervous about what the outcome might be. Speculation about a return to the pre-New 52 continuity, a crossing of continuities, and other worries placed a damper on the lead-in to the series. On the flip, people are just excited about X-Men: Battle of the Atom. There is a little speculation, but much more excitement and less trepidation.

Could This Go Wrong?

We will get a look at which X-Men will be in the future. We will see some our favorites X-Men from years gone by. We will finally have the confrontations Marvel has been building up for over the last year. We will have the return of Nightcrawler! I am popping! Ok, yes, it could go wrong – but I am hoping it does not.

Marvel’s Chance to Shine Brighter Than the DC Comic

With the recent mistakes made by DC Comics, Marvel has a great chance to shine. DC Comics might tap some extra market share simply because of the number of titles they are offering for Villain Month, but Marvel can show its competition how to tell a crossover story. They can be the top winners of the September War, even if the numbers do not support it. All they have to do is live up to our expectations with X-Men: Battle of the Atom.

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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.

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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

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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.

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Avengers: Age of Ultron – Battling Your Negative Notions NOW

Jul. 21 News, TV & Movies no comments

Just hours after DC Comics officially announced the Batman-Superman movie, Marvel fired back with Avengers: Age of Ultron. I have already heard some of the criticism, and am preparing myself to hear even more. Before we go jumping down Marvel’s throat about Avengers: Age of Ultron, there are some issues we need to consider. Lets take a look at some of the potential arguments.

Avengers: Age of Ultron

Avengers: Age of Ultron

Age of Utron is Too New

Where is there a rule written which states that Marvel has to incorporate older stories into the movies? Yes, Loki was the first villain in the Avengers comics, and the first villain in the movies, but that does not mean that Marvel has to follow suit with the next storyline in the comics. While the Space Phantom story from Avengers #2 would be an interesting story to tell, Age of Ultron is a much stronger story.

But, We Don’t Have a Full Enough Cast for Avengers: Age of Ultron

How long should Marvel wait to make Avengers: Age of Ultron? The X-Men, Spider-Man, and the Fantastic Four are all movie properties owned by other companies. If Marvel were to wait to make this movie to ensure all of the players from the comic are involved, Avengers: Age of Ultron might not be made for a decade, if at all.

Also, as Marvel has proven with the Phase 1 movies, they do not have to follow the comics exactly (or barely even loosely) to make blockbusters. The Avengers was one of the top grossing movies of all time. They can pull this movie off without Wolverine, Spider-Man, or Reed.

But, What About Hank Pym?

Here is a bit of an odd one. If Hank Pym is going to be the creator of Ultron in Avengers: Age of Ultron, it means he will be launched in the Marvel cinematic universe before his own movie. Avengers: Age of Ultron is slated for May of 2015, and Ant-Man is slated for November 2015. There is nothing wrong with introducing him in an Avengers movie before his own. In fact, this will help to introduce him to a wider audience before he has his own movie. Please have Wasp, Marvel. Please have Wasp.

Avengers: Age of Ultron Alienates Older Fans

How can anyone say Avengers: Age of Ultron alienates older fans? None of the Marvel movies have followed the original comics exactly. If anything, they have followed the Ultimate Universe closer. Each movie has had enough shout outs to the way “things used to be” to keep older fans and collectors happy. None of the Marvel movies in Phase 1 were flops, and Avengers: Age of Ultron is sure to follow the same formulas used thus far.

Avengers: Age of Ultron is Only to Sell the Newer Comics

The hell it is. The main goals of Avengers: Age of Ultron would be to continue the Marvel/Disney dominance of the comic-book based media market, continue the superhero movie legacy Marvel has created, and to make the other comic book publishing companies stand further back in line. Selling comics is an impact, but not necessarily a goal of the movie franchises Marvel is running with right now in much the same way that selling toys and other merchandise is an impact. Yes, this announcement will get more people in the stores picking up Age of Ultron – but that is not the ultimate goal. The ultimate goal is to keep Marvel on top of the comic book industry for many years to come.

What Impact Will This Have on the Marvel Cinematic Universe Timeline?

Who says that there has to be enough time travel in Avengers: Age of Ultron to disrupt the space-time continuum? Marvel might even know a way to pull off the story without having time travel at all. The movie title might simply be a way to indicate that the Avengers will be battling Ultron. We will not have any clue as to how this will all play out until closer to the release of Avengers: Age of Ultron, or we might have to wait until the first movie or two passes after the next Avengers movie. Only time, and Marvel, will tell.

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Marvel’s Agents of S.H.I.E.L.D. and San Diego Comic-Con International

Jul. 05 News, TV & Movies Comments Off on Marvel’s Agents of S.H.I.E.L.D. and San Diego Comic-Con International

Bar none, Marvel’s Agents of S.H.I.E.L.D. needs to be the talk of the town come San Diego Comic-Con International. With the show launching within months on ABC, the network and Marvel need to make sure that you hear about the show at every turn.

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

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

Other Announcements

Of course, there will be a myriad of other announcements made at San Diego Comic-Con International. Companies will be announcing movies, different shows, and new toys and video games will be prepped for a holiday release. Marvel’s Agents of S.H.I.E.L.D. needs to be the center attraction to ensure that people are hungry for the new show.

In Marvel’s Favor

There are a few aspects in Marvel’s favor. First off, The Walking Dead does not come out until October, so Image is not as pressed to make a major impact. Secondly, the rumors have been flying around the Internet as to who it is in the trailers and which characters might be seen on the show. Finally, ABC has been pushing hard to make sure that ABC fans see as much as possible of Clark Gregg and the other stars of the show. The network has built a frenzy which now needs to be cashed in upon. Marvel is able to strike while the iron is hot.

Time

There have been many months since the official announcement of Marvel’s Agents of S.H.I.E.L.D., so the company has had a long time to prep for San Diego Comic-Con International. If you think that the publishing companies start thinking about San Diego Comic-Con International within the last few weeks before the convention, you are wrong. They start planning a year in advance or more. I would not be going out on a limb by saying that Marvel was probably prepping announcements for this year’s San Diego Comic-Con International before officially announcing Marvel’s Agents of S.H.I.E.L.D.

The ball is in Marvel’s court when it comes to the announcement of Marvel’s Agents of S.H.I.E.L.D. at San Diego Comic-Con International. I can’t wait to see what announcements they make, and how those announcements make the other publishers squirm.

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Marvel Mutants “M” Word: More Reality in Comics?

Jun. 28 Comics, News Comments Off on Marvel Mutants “M” Word: More Reality in Comics?

Kitty Pride made comments in this week’s issue of All-New Mutants which would point to a deeper statement which would lead us to believe that Marvel mutants are no longer going to be referred to as mutants. Using the term “The ‘M’ word,” is sure to be controversial with many readers, but I think it is time for Marvel to distance itself from the term.

Marvel's market share is dropping

Marvel’s market share is dropping

Marvel Mutants NOW

Remember, we are in a period right now called Marvel NOW in which our favorite characters are thrust into a Brave New World which is more reflective of the real world than ever before. Marvel mutants have been thrust into this modern world in more ways than one with the original X-Men living and breathing in the modern day. Figuring out different terminology for the Marvel mutants right now makes since it melds with the continuing trend towards being more politically correct.

The Goal of Political Correctness

The goal of political correctness is to eliminate words which exclude people from the rest of society and to eliminate words which might cause a feeling of discomfort of disenfranchisement. I am not going to list all of the terms here as you should know most of them on your own, but remember that the end goal is to make everyone feel like they are on equal footing regardless of race, sex, religion, sexual orientation, disability, or origin. If Marvel is going to continue to try to make the superhero world as close to the real world, why wouldn’t it make sense to extend political correctness to the Marvel mutants?

No Matter What Side of the Aisle You are On

In the end, it really does not matter which side of the political correctness aisle you sit on when dealing with Marvel mutants and “The ‘M’ word.” You might be upset that Marvel is trying to make some type of statement, or you might be upset that Marvel is trying to change a term which we have been using for decades. In the end, you should be happy that Marvel is dragging an issue out of the real world and exploring the implication in the Marvel Universe. You should celebrate the discussion Marvel is beginning and look forward to seeing both sides of the debate unfold in future issues. The Marvel Universe grows when it encompasses a little more reality in it.

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Thoughts on Age of Ultron #10

Jun. 20 Comics, News Comments Off on Thoughts on Age of Ultron #10

I am going to assume that you have either read Age of Ultron #10, or have heard all of the spoilers out there. Since it has been 24 hours since the comic has come out, I guess it is time for me to talk about where Marvel can go NOW with the revelation of the space time continuum being borked by the characters in the story.

Age of Ultron #10

Age of Ultron #10

Interesting Note

We should start out by pointing out how Age of Ultron #10 gives us a moment when we realize that all of the universes in the Marvel Megaverse are crossing. We have Earth 616’s Galactus apparently in the Ultimate Universe, we have Angela zooming around the galaxy, and we have characters having visions of other characters from throughout the megaverse. This grand-scale crossover means almost anything can happen over the next few months.

Another Interesting Note

At least Marvel had the gumption to realize that the story it created in Age of Ultron should have negative ramifications other than simply changing a few characters here and there. Not only will the characters have to deal with all the changes, they are going to have to figure out how to fix the problem so that it does not happen again.

Yet One More Interesting Note on Age of Ultron #10

Can anyone think of a major crossover which potentially dealt with every universe in the Marvel Megaverse at the same time?

Dead No More?

One aspect I would love to see is for characters to reappear who have been presumed dead for a long time. While I am not expecting Uncle Ben (as bringing him back is a sacrilege), there are many other characters who have died over the years who could be brought back. Abomination, Baron Mordo, Baron Zemo, Cheetah, Maggot, Nightcrawler, Professor X, Peter Parker, and Wraith are just a handful of characters I would love to see brought back to life now that time and space are so screwed up after Age of Ultron #10.

The Grand Swap

We have seen Galactus head over to the Ultimate Universe so what is to say that there will not be more swaps in the near future? How about sending Zombie Hulk or Zombie Spider-man into the normal universe? Age of Ultron #10 opens the door for almost any character from another universe to be sent into any other. Marvel can play this one up very will with a swap month which could send the megaverse on its ear.

Send Someone Somewhere?

After Age of Ultron #10, Marvel could take a character with mediocre sales and send them to another time or place. The story could follow the character (or even a small team of characters) as they try to figure out a way home from the strange world they are now part of.

Please Don’t

Please Marvel, don’t simply allow the Scarlet Witch or Doctor Strange to will reality back to normal. This is too easy of a trick that most of us would not be happy seeing. Age of Ultron #10 should be harder to overcome than with a simple wish.

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Age of Ultron #10 is My Pick of the Week!

Jun. 19 Comics, News Comments Off on Age of Ultron #10 is My Pick of the Week!

Age of Ultron #10 comes out today and it easily became my Pick of the Week. Simply put, you need to read this issue. Even if you have not read Age of Ultron up to this point, there are a series of events in Age of Ultron #10 which will have you amazed. If you are thinking that the introduction of Angela is the watershed moment in the issue, you are only partially correct.

Age of Ultron #10

Age of Ultron #10

Spoilers for Age of Ultron #10?

As per usual, I will do everything I can to avoid giving spoilers in this article. If you are looking for spoilers, you have come to the wrong website. Age of Ultron #10 is so strong that a spoiler will ruin the moments of shock and awe you will experience while reading the issue. I would not be able to sleep at night if I robbed you of that experience.

Talk About Universe-Changing Events?

Marvel has spoken about universe-changing events for many years now. Every year, they come out with a crossover event or two which they say will change everything we think about the Marvel Universe and how their new event will change everything. Compared to the universe-changing moments in Age of Ultron #10, all of Marvel’s former crossover events are like comparing a Little League game to the World Series. This is Marvel’s New 52 event!

Don’t Get Me Wrong

Age of Ultron #10 does not reboot the Marvel Universe like the New 52 did for DC Comics. Instead, we have a new evolution like Marvel has been working on since Marvel NOW was launched. Age of Ultron #10 has moments we are going to be talking about for years and debating about as well. Marvel has just opened up Pandora’s Box and every “What If?” scenario we have thought about could become a reality. Hopefully, Marvel can turn this universe-changing event into something epic.

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Differences Between Marvel and DC Comics: Locations

Jun. 14 Comics no comments

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Polybagging Age of Ultron #10 a Smart Move

May. 17 Comics, News no comments

I find it interesting how Marvel will be polybagging all issues of Age of Ultron #10. This is a rare step taken by comic book companies and is only saved for certain events. I think it is a smart move for Marvel to do it now.

Age of Ultron #10

Age of Ultron #10

First – A Word from Marvel

THE FINALE!

The biggest secret in comics will be revealed to you! An ending so confidential…even the artists of this book don’t know what lies on the final pages…! A surprise so big that comic book legend Joe Quesada himself returns to the pages of Marvel Comics to draw a sequence that people will be talking about for years.

*All covers of Age Of Ultron #10 will be polybagged

Product Update (4/4/2013): Has a regular cover by Brandon Peterson, not Peterson, Carlos Pacheco, & Joe Quesada, and has art by Bryan Hitch, Brandon Peterson, Carlos Pacheco, Alex Maleev, & Joe Quesada.

Save the Story in Age of Ultron #10

Of course, the most obvious reason for polybagging Age of Ultron #10 would be to prevent people from just sitting in a comic book store to check out the last few pages of the issue. It keeps the air of secrecy which Marvel has been building around the issue. It is a smart move as a marketing tool which continues along with the steps the publisher has taken so far to keep the story in Age of Ultron #10 a secret so far.

Reduce Those Pesky Damaged Issues

If you own a comic book store, one of the inevitable issues you will have to deal with is damaged issues. Even though the great people at Diamond do their best when packing copies of your favorite comics each week, some issues end up getting damaged. As contents shift of boxes fall during shipping, accidents happen. By polybagging Age of Ultron #10, Marvel reduces the number of damaged copies which would not have made it to the shelf for the initial sales day. This helps retailers and it helps the end reader since there will be more on the shelves during the first day of sales.

Will Marvel Move Extra Units?

Marvel will definitely move extra units of Age of Ultron #10 because many people are going to want to have a copy to read and one to save in case the market takes an upswing on the issue in the days following release. Of course, this is going to put extra emphasis on variant covers (such as the Angela cover which is sure to be hot hot hot). Marvel might see a good portion of the market share it lost in recent months (but is gaining back) come back quickly.

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Updated – Cancelled: Avenging Spider-Man – And That is It!

May. 14 Comic Book Collecting, News no comments

According to the Marvel Subscription Newsletter, three separate Marvel Comics titles are coming to an end (UPDATE BELOW):

Avengers Assemble will be ending soon, and all subscribers will roll over to Avengers written by Marvel superstar Jonathan Hickman. Avenging Spider-Man will be ending, and all subscribers will be switching to the all new Superior Spider-Man Team-Up written by Christopher Yost. Last but not least Marvel Universe Avengers Earth’s Mightiest Heroes will be changing its title to Marvel Universe Avengers Assemble. Be on the lookout for these exciting new titles!

(UPDATE) Since the original posting, Marvel has sent out the following message:

Whoops! Has Kang been messing with the timestream or have we just been getting confused?

The Avengers keep on assembling! Avengers Assemble is not ending, it’s carrying on its merry way, and its loyal subscribers will stay right where they are.

Marvel Universe Avengers Earth’s Mightiest Heroes will also be keeping on track.

We’re so sorry about the confusion! Avengers forever!

It appears that Marvel has taken out an axe similar to the one taken out yesterday by DC Comics (See Here). It will be interesting to see if there are other titles added to the cancellation list within the next few days.

Avenging Spider-Man cancelled by Marvel

Avenging Spider-Man cancelled by Marvel

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

May. 13 News, TV & Movies no comments

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

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

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

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

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

How Can Marvel and ABC Do It?

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

Easy Marketing

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

The Rising Tide site

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Marvel’s Market Share is Shrinking and Should Not

May. 09 Comic Book Collecting, News no comments

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

Marvel's market share is dropping

Marvel’s market share is dropping

The Numbers

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

What is Going On?

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

Why is Marvel Losing?

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

Looking Back

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

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Potential Issues with a Black Panther Movie

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

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

I am hoping for a Black Panther movie

I am hoping for a Black Panther movie

Wakanda

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

Dryness

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

Hate to Say It

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

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

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Disenchantment with Once Upon a Time Graphic Novel

May. 01 Comics, News no comments

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

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

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

The Skinny on Once Upon a Time Graphic Novel

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

My Disappointment with Castle Graphic Novels and Comics

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

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

Once Upon a Time: Because They Have To?

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

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Importance of the Official Handbook of the Marvel Universe

Apr. 11 Comics no comments

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

The Official Handbook of the Marvel Universe, Deluxe Edition

The Official Handbook of the Marvel Universe, Deluxe Edition

What Was the Official Handbook of the Marvel Universe?

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

Know the History

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

How They Have Changed

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

Who is That?

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

Who is Coming Next Month?

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

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

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What is the Most Significant Event in the Marvel Universe?

Apr. 03 Comics no comments

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Neil Gaiman to Marvel and Our Thoughts!

Mar. 21 Comics, News no comments

Breaking News: Neil Gaiman will be returning to Marvel and it appears he is bringing Angela over from Spawn to flourish as a new character in the Marvel Universe. This is in response to the win Gaiman had in court last year which allows him to have control and profits from the character [Edited as more news about topic came in]. Gaiman will collaborate with Brian Michael Bendis on the final issue of Age of Ultron and will also be working on Guardians of the Galaxy #5.

This is Big News people!

This is Big News people!

Over at WonderWorldComics.com, we don’t just tell you what is going on – we also give our opinions. Sit down and buckle up.

Neil Gaiman to Marvel

Some of Neil Gaiman’s fans might be distraught by the idea of the author heading back to work with Marvel. This is Neil Gaiman people! Few are worthy enough to question his motives.

Actually, I think it is a good move for him and for the company. He has proven how he likes to dabble in comics from time to time and Marvel can give him the widest range of possibilities. In Age of Ultron and Guardians of the Galaxy, Gaiman is allowed to take the helm in one of the most important Marvel events of the year. Marvel’s return to cosmic storytelling is a major event which will reach far (even into the movies) and it is fitting to have one of the best writers alive today as a part of it.

Anyways – Marvel is making huge movies right now. Why would Neil Gaiman pass on getting his character in a movie?

Neil Gaiman’s Angela

I like the idea of bringing Angela to Marvel. Spawn does not have the pull it had a decade ago on the market and creators love to see their characters grow over the years. She has the greatest opportunity to grow right now in the Marvel Universe. DC Comics is mostly focused on the families (Batman, Superman, Green Lantern, Justice League), where as Marvel is also working on increasing the sales of other titles which are either family spin-offs or solo titles. Neil Gaiman has the opportunity to watch his “daughter” flourish for many years.

Neil Gaiman’s return to Marvel is a win/win situation and should make fans of both the creator and of the publisher pop.

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Digital Death Part III: Digital Comics and Collecting

Mar. 21 Comic Book Collecting, News Comments Off on Digital Death Part III: Digital Comics and Collecting

My fellow comic book collectors – we are being devalued by Marvel and DC Comics in their push to increase sales of digital comics. Not only will digital comics eventually decrease the comic book market, the push for digital comics proves the Big 2 could care less about our passion for their products. How long will we stand for this [Censored] insolence? How long will we allow digital comics to survive?

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

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

How Easily Marvel and DC Comics Forget

There are two types of backs in which the comic book market has been built. Initially, it was built upon the backs of comic book readers who stood in line to pay a matter of cents for the newest issue of Action Comics. In my lifetime, the backs of comic book collectors were tapped as the Big 2 realized many of us were keeping boxes of comics to preserve them for the ages and that the values of back issues were climbing.

The Early [Censored] Ups

Marvel and DC Comics caused crashes in the past by trying to exploit either the reader’s market or the collector’s market. The comic book publishers [Censored] the market in the 1990s by trying to produce as many crappy titles as possible to exploit readers and put special covers on every issue in an attempt to exploit the collectors. Their greed made our favored market a [Censored] joke and the future was in jeopardy. Since the market is currently up in a big way, those greedy [Censored] are trying to figure out another way to exploit. They are looking for another back of support.

Who They are Going After

You could speculate about Marvel and DC Comics going after current readers with the push to digital comics, but you would be dead wrong. You know that [Censored] hipster douche you see sitting at Starbucks every morning who thinks the world should revolve around him? The world of comics is moving to revolve around him. Digital comics, Marvel AR, and whatever piece of [Censored] DC shovels out to compete with it, are all geared at the grab-a-trend hipster bastard who will drop money on the latest trend. The biggest problem with grab-a-trend hipsters is they do not stay around long. Wake the [Censored] Marvel and DC, we have been around for years and you are turning your backs on us!

This content is censored.

This content is censored.

What Will Happen

The issue of Spider-Man you have been keeping safe in order to pass on to your kids one day – it is going to be worthless if digital comics completely take over as everyone will have read it and there is no draw to hold the original. All that money you spent to have your comic graded will be lost as people scoff at physical comics as they will be passé. All of the time you spent collecting will have been wasted as people could give a [Censored] about your collection.

What Can We Do?

Don’t you think for a [Censored] minute that there is nothing you can do. Support your local comic book stores instead of digitally downloading comics. When Marvel and DC Comics tell you to check out the latest digital download, raise your voices and tell them to go [Censored] themselves. If you are sitting at a comic book convention panel, make sure your voice is heard. Tell other comic book collectors to do the same. The only way we can keep our collections valued, and keep ourselves valued by the Big 2, is to tell them that we are mad as hell, and we are not going to take it anymore!

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Rogue As Ultimate Symbol of Mutants

Mar. 20 Characters Comments Off on Rogue As Ultimate Symbol of Mutants

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Digital Death Part II: Dark Reason Behind Digital Comics

Mar. 12 Comic Book Collecting, News no comments

In Digital Death Part I: Illegally Downloading Comic Books, we discussed the dangers of downloading comics and the negative impacts on the publishing companies (especially the smaller ones), the distributors, and the comic book stores. In this installment, we will look at another side of digital comics and the negative impact on the market. We will look at the secret intent of digital comics which Marvel and DC don’t want you to think about and what this intent will lead to.

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

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

What If Digital Comics Took Over?

What if we all switched tomorrow to digital comics? Where would that leave the comic book stores and distributors like Diamond? There would not be a need for them in the end. There would not be a need for the printed pages since they were all digitally rendered. Marvel and DC would love to have the opportunity to cut out levels of distribution and eventually sell directly to the consumer. The Big 2 need their profits and if it means they would put over two thousand small businesses out of business, what do they care? What do they care if digital comics could cause for tens of thousands of people being added to the unemployment lines if they (Marvel and DC) can make more money?

Price and Cost of Digital Comics

Think about the profits Marvel and DC would gain if they did not have to give a piece of the action to the comic book stores and to the distributors. You might be saying “Well, the digital comics I have been buying are only $0.99. Marvel and DC can’t be making that much money.” Do you really think the Big 2 would leave the price of digital comics at $0.99 if the other levels of distribution were eliminated? Once the levels of distribution were eliminated, the price of the digital comics would go up to the price of printed versions, or higher.

Where Does this Leave Comixology?

Of course, Comixology and other digital distributors of comics are making some money now, but what is going to happen if Marvel and DC are able to eliminate physical distributors and comic book stores? Digital distributors would be next as the Big Two march towards complete domination of the market and sell the digital comics to you directly through their websites and apps.

Where Does this Leave Smaller Publishers?

Smaller publishers fight to get as much of the market as possible. Most of their push comes in the comic book stores as workers introduce you to titles from smaller companies you did not consider. Business also comes from Previews, which is published by Diamond. How long with Previews be around if Diamond was forced to go belly-up because of the domination of digital comics? The smaller companies would be casualties of the digital comics war between Marvel and DC.

Illegal Downloads

Again, we have to revert back to illegally downloading comics. With more digital comics out on the market, the downloaders would take their piece of the pie. The stage could be set for a battle where Marvel would have to team with DC to ensure the illegal downloaders did not completely kill the market. Funny, the Big Two would have to fight to keep the market they are killing alive.

Gone!

Gone would be the days of walking into a comic book store to peruse the shelves for new titles. Gone would be the discussions with comic book store workers about their suggestions. Gone would be the physical locations where you would go to talk about comics with other comic book fans. Gone would be the excitement of going through a long box at a store to see what hidden gems you can get for cheap.

Gone would be the experience of looking at a stack of new comics and trying to decide which to look at first. Gone would be the smell of a new comic and feeling the glossy pages on your fingers as you open it to see what the creators had in store. Gone would be the experience of reading a comic book…just so Marvel and DC could make a few extra dollars an issue.

The future of the industry is yours to decide. Will you stand there and do nothing like the Watcher, or will you jump in and say “I’m as mad as Hell, and I’m not going to take it anymore!?”

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Marvel NOW 52 #1 Poster Inside Out

Feb. 27 Comics no comments

One of the biggest points of speculation right now in the comic book world would have to be about the Marvel NOW posters being released which are being referred to as Marvel NOW 52. Let’s take a quick look at the Marvel Now 52 #1 poster and go over what is known and take a look at what is missing.

Marvel NOW 52

Marvel NOW 52

Marvel NOW 52 #1 Poster

The Marvel NOW 52 poster shows the names of superheroes with varying sizes shaped into the number “1” next to the pound sign. It would appear that this is a signifier that there might be more rounds of #1 issues coming out involving these characters. It could also mean that these characters are going to be part of the first major crossover of the Marvel NOW Universe.

The Names on Marvel NOW #1 Poster

When the word “52” came into play due to the Wolverine scratch poster, many fans and sites began to speculate about 52 names being in the #1 poster. That is incorrect. I took the time and counted (multiple times to make sure), and there are only 50 names present.

Marvel NOW 52?

Marvel NOW 52?

Marvel NOW #1 Poster Sizing

Note that the names are of different sizes on the poster. Since most of the popular characters are larger than lesser-followed characters (Such as the difference in size between Thor and Iron Fist), the easy assumption could be made that the larger names will have a larger place in the Marvel Universe than the smaller ones.

Disturbing Differences

Ant-Man has a movie coming out during Phase 3 of the Marvel movies. Note his name is small on the poster. I would hope he would play a large role in the Marvel Universe in the next few years to get more people ready for his movie. Cable’s name is fairly small. Should we expect that the X-Force team he is leading will not have a large impact? Why doesn’t anyone love Namor?

Some Interesting Characters Missing from Marvel NOW 52 #1 Poster

Guardians of the Galaxy is launching and Rocket Raccoon is the only member of the team featured on the poster. Where are members of the Uncanny X-Force such as Spiral and Puck? Most of the original X-Men portrayed in All New X-Men and team members from the other major X-titles are not named. Red Hulk, She-Hulk, and Red She-Hulk are also missing along with Black Bolt and most of the Fearless Defenders. Magik and Scarlett Witch are major players right now but not named. I could spend all day going through names not on the poster, but you get the point.

What We Know NOW?

Pretty much nothing. All we can make is assumptions off of what we see and what we don’t see. As long as Marvel does not drop the ball (as they have in the past), we should be in for an interesting ride. Then again, this could be a perfect setup for an elaborate Marvel NOW 52 April Fool’s joke or the countdown to the anniversary of the first issue of the Fantastic Four.

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Essential Marvel Crossover Events Leading to Marvel NOW

Feb. 15 Comics Comments Off on Essential Marvel Crossover Events Leading to Marvel NOW

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Importance of Marvel Secret Wars

Feb. 09 Comics no comments

Through my years of comic book reading and collecting, the Marvel Secret Wars series continues to have a special place in my heart. Even though Marvel and DC will pop out “universe-changing events” every year, nothing the big two can do can come close to the impact of Secret Wars.

Secret Wars

Secret Wars

In the first part of the mid-1980s, DC was making an impact on the toy world with its license with Kenner. Mattel wanted to make a bigger comic book impact outside of He-Man, so the company partnered with Marvel to create new action figures and other toys. Mattel’s focus groups found that boys identified with words such as “war” and “secret” so Secret Wars was born. The goal of the massive crossover which ran from May of 1984 to April of 1985 was to simply sell the toys, but the series had greater impacts on our favorite form of entertainment.

First off, Secret Wars proved fans were interested in seeing massive crossover storylines. While this happened on a small scale before in crossovers between Batman and Superman or The Defenders and The Avengers, but never with a majority of the top characters in one the comic book company’s universes. Secret Wars paved the way for massive crossover series such as House of M, Fear Itself and Avengers vs. X-Men.

After Secret Wars, Spider-Man was regularly seen in his new black costume. This would lead to symbiote storylines and gave us characters such as Venom and Carnage. Also, She Hulk joined the Fantastic Four through the fallout of the first major universe-changing event. Marvel realized they could make waves in a major crossover and continue those waves for months or even years. Instead of the storyline being mostly contained in the issues of the special series, such as with Contest of Champions, Secret Wars was a seed which grew across a dozen titles.

Secret Wars led to Secret Wars II. While many fans were not as happy with the second major universe-changing event to come from Marvel, the publisher was able to start a ball rolling which would show impacts today. In Civil War, there were multiple references to former crossover series such as Avengers Disassembled and House of M.

Before Secret Wars, we might see a reference to something which happened in the past, but these were usually reserved for previously-connected titles or identical titles. If the Hulk was spending time in New Mexico, this would be referenced in The Incredible Hulk, or The Defenders since he was an occasional member of the team. This would not be referenced in Spider-Man on a regular basis. Secret Wars impressed the idea of a shared universe where the actions of one hero or villain could impact dozens of others.

Don’t forget the toys. The next time you find yourself looking through a rack of Marvel Universe toys for Deadpool or Thanos, think about how the first major universe-changing crossover set the stage for the comic book action figure market. Where there used to be a small rack for superhero action figures, now we find entire aisles at major retailers with new lines coming out every years. At conventions, we see multiple retailers who specialize in action figures born of the idea which created Secret Wars.

The modern revolutions which we take for granted today in comics were proven as possible with Secret Wars. The next time you see an issue of the original series, give it the respect it deserves. While it might not be as flashy as a modern issue of the New 52 or Marvel Now, those old issues are more important than what is coming out today.

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