Tag: news

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.

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San Diego Comic-Con Random Thoughts Part II

Jul. 20 Conventions, News no comments

Between every breath we take, more news comics out of San Diego Comic-Con International. This is the second part of my series of picking out my favorite news bits from the convention and giving my opinions. To see the first part of this series, please follow this link. Part three can be found here.

  • Batman and Son will come out some time next year and be the animated premiere for Damian. With this being a New 52 continuity movie, I am looking forward to seeing if DC Comics will kill Damian off in an animated format.
  • Congrats to all of the Eisner winners including Challenger Comics in Chicago. I also want to send congrats to Green Brain Comics, since it is based here in Michigan and a friend of this website and our store, for making it so far in the running. We look forward to the day when we win ours.
  • Happy to see Saga claen up at the Eisner’s. The wins were well-deserved.
  • The new My Little Pony: Friendship is Magic and Transformers mini-series from IDW Publishing are sure to help the publisher bump up sales and move closer to helping it solidifying its position in the Top 4 for market share.
  • The Walking Dead Season 4 preview is one of the top items at San Diego Comic-Con International. I think it looks awesome, and has me gearing up for the new season. One issue, though. At the end of the preview, some of the survivors are seen in a car and a voice comes over the radio talking about “sanctuary.” I was immediately reminded of the recording coming across the radio talking about Safe Haven in the Deadworld series. Is this something else “borrowed” from Gary Reed’s zombie apocalypse series?
  • Sadly, the Harley Quinn Suicide Squad figure just does not do it for me. I might end up having to pass on it. The original costume black and white figure coming out in 2014, that will be on my list for May.
  • So the Trinity War is the end of Phase 1 of the New 52. How many phases are we going to get? Was this simply an introduction phase?
  • So much talk about Booster Gold, but wasn’t he supposed to have his own show on SyFy? What every happened with that? It might have actually meant there would have been something good on SyFy which didn’t have to do with sharks. If you get the chance one day, stop in the store and ask me why SyFy hates me.
  • Ragnarok from IDW Publishing has me excited. It will be interesting to compare and contrast the use of Norse mythology in that comic and the use of Norse mythology at Marvel.
  • DC Comics is making MAD Magazine and their All Ages comics returnable in from October. Interesting. I have mixed feelings about returnable comics. While it helps the retailers out, why would publishers create products they did not have full faith in? If a product is stupendous, it never has to be returned.
  • J. August Richards will be portraying Slapstick on Marvel’s Agents of S.H.I.E.L.D. Some might be discouraged by this, but at least we don’t have any Howard the Duck.
  • The big battle for interest at San Diego Comic-Con International is between Marvel’s Agents of S.H.I.E.L.D., The Walking Dead Season 4, and Villain Month/Forever Evil. Interesting three-way fight. The fight is still too early to declare but it is interesting that there are two fighters on TV and one in the stores.

Harley_Suicide_Squad_figure

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San Diego Comic-Con Random Thoughts Part I

Jul. 19 Conventions, News 2 comments

Even though I am not at San Diego Comic-Con International, I still have opinions about what is going on. This is the first part of the series I am running over the next few days in which I will be posting random thoughts about some of the announcements. Some of these items will be featured in their own articles because I have more to say. You will find out which ones when I write them.

See Part II of this series by following this link. Part III can be found here.

  • DC Comics will be releasing a DVD/Bluray entitled “Necessary Evil: Supervillains of DC Comics” in October along with a companion book containing some of the greatest stories surrounding their villains. Yes, both of those sound awesome to me. I love the idea of letting the baddies shine as much as possible.
  • DC will be releasing The Flashpoint Paradox which will bring the animated movies into the New 52 continuity.  I have to say that it is a good idea to pull all arms of DC Entertainment into the New 52 continuity. It adds cohesion and continuity among continuities (or something like that).
  • More Sandman coming from Neil Gaiman? While I am not a fan of the particular character (nothing wrong, just never read the comics), I know that this will invigorate tens of thousands of fans around the world. With Gaiman doing a little work for Marvel right now, this is a major coup for DC Comics.
  • I am happy to hear that Robert Kirkman officially announced that Daryl is not going to be in The Walking Dead comic. I have said for a long time that he should not be.
  • I am also happy about the fact that we will not learn about what is happening in other countries in The Walking Dead. This would force lines of communication which should not be there. On the flip side, though, it means we will never venture into Canada.
  • So there is going to be a crossover between Family Guy and The Simpsons. Yes, I will watch but it will probably be stupid.
  • DC Comics had a digital comics panel. Pffft.
  • There will be a Spider-Man crossover pitting Superior Spider-Man against Venom. I think I am going to have to check this four issue series out.
  • Excited about the idea of Jeff Smith bringing out more Bone. Who could be upset about that? Sure, some might complain that it is coming out through Scholastic, but that just means that kids ordering the books from school will be exposed to comics in school.
  • Detroit filed for bankruptcy. Wait, that has nothing to do with comics and is not a surprise to anyone. Oops.
  • IDW Publishing is expanding the older editions from the Big 2 that they are going to be releasing. I am going to have to get my hands on the Romita Spider-Man book when it comes out.
  • New Hellboy? That is sure to get the girls in our Detroit area comic book store buzzing.
  • If you sign up for the Amazon digital comics newsletter, you will get a free digital copy of Superman #1 from the New 52. What do I think about this? Anyone want to play fill in the blank?
  • I am a little disappointed that Marvel’s Agents of S.H.I.E.L.D. is not the ultimate talk of the town yet. Of course, there still is three more days for the House of Ideas to get everyone drooling. I am not counting the possibility out yet.
  • There will be a monthly Shazam title coming from DC Comics in 2014. Shazam (Captain Marvel) was one of my favorite characters as a child. I hope he gets all of the room he needs to grow. They can make him a headliner again.
  • Lex Luthor is the mastermind behind Forever Evil. This makes sense to me. He is one of the top 5 villains the company has to offer and Joker is probably still reeling from the end of Death of the Family, so it would be impossible to expect him to come up with a master plan of this magnitude this quickly.

Well, that is it for the first part of my San Diego Comic-Con random thoughts so far. More to come along with expansions on some of the topics presented here.

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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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Joe Pruett, Comic Creator and Friend Hospialized

Jun. 26 Detroit Area Comic Book Store, News Comments Off on Joe Pruett, Comic Creator and Friend Hospialized
Joe Pruett

Joe Pruett

It was reported last night that Joe Pruett, comic book writer, editor, and publisher, has been hospitalized due to a possible stroke. The information was posted on his Facebook page from his wife, Valarie Pruett Smith.

Joe Pruett has worked on such titles as Negative Burn, Kilroy is Here, The Nameless, Cable, X-Men Unlimited, and the Art of Brian Bolland. He is the founder of Desperado Publishing.

Joe is a good friend of Wonderworld Comics and on behalf of store ownership, and staff, we hope Joe a speedy recovery and hope his family finds the strength they need to deal with this difficult and wrenching situation.

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New Green Lantern Replica Rings Do Not Measure Up

Jun. 19 News, Toy Collecting Comments Off on New Green Lantern Replica Rings Do Not Measure Up

I was excited when I found out that DC Comics was going to reissue the plastic Green Lantern replica rings because these are good sellers in the store and many fans have tried to collect each color for their shelves are mantles. When we opened the packages of the reissued Green Lantern replica rings, we noticed that something was very wrong. These are not reissues. These rings are different.

Green Lantern replica rings

Green Lantern replica rings

What is a Reissue?

Typically, when you are talking about a product being reissued, you are talking about a product which is going back into production using the same molds and dyes. Sometimes, the packaging is slightly different (such as when a second print run happens in a comics), but that should be the only difference.

The Differences in the Green Lantern Replica Rings

In the picture, I placed one of the new Green Lantern replica rings next to an old one. The one on the left is darker and has a glossy finish. This makes the ring appear to be some type of metallic alloy instead of simply plastic unless you are very close to it. Because of the crisp appearance, it is a bargain at the low price point they are sold at.

The one on the right is the new Green Lantern replica ring. Notice that it is a light color of green and has a matte finish. You can tell right away that this is a plastic piece of costume jewelry from across the room.

This is Not a Reissue

The new Green Lantern replica rings are not a reissue of the popular collectible many stores have sold out of. It is a cheap knockoff of the original and should not be passed off by DC Comics as anything but. This is the sad second place replacement for those Green Lantern fans who were not quick enough to pick up the original.

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DC Comics Villain Month is Official

Jun. 03 Comics, News, September War no comments

Dan DiDio and Jim Lee sat down with Buzzfeed and discussed the upcoming DC Comics Villain Month. They confirmed many of the rumors about the month and cleared up many of the points of speculation.

DC Comics Villain Month

DC Comics Villain Month

DC Comics Villain Month is a Reality

After months of rumors and speculation, it can be confirmed that the DC Comics Villain Month will be coming in September. I received confirmation about the event a few months ago from someone at DC Comics, but was asked not to discuss anything until the official announcement was made. Remember, I am against posting spoilers on this site, so I had to live and die by the sword I wield.

The Focus of DC Comics Villain Month

During September, DC Comics will focus on the motivations and psychological inspections of the villains we have come to know so well. The goal will not be to humanize them (according to the interview) but to give us a deeper understanding of them.

What Will Happen During the DC Comics Villain Month?

Each of the New 52 titles will be taken over by a villain and will be renamed as a #1 issue for that particular character for the month of September. In the lineage of the comic, though, this will be a .1 issue. Hence, Grood #1 will actually be Flash #23.1.

The Interesting Covers of DC Comics Villain Month

The covers of DC Comics Villain Month will all be 3D. Jim Lee explained during the interview that the covers will be two-layer 3D motion covers.

The Titles Announced for DC Comics Villain Month

The titles officially announced so far for DC Comics Villain Month include (regular title in parentheses):

Two Face #1 (Batman & Robin)

Desaad #1 (Earth 2)

Creeper #1 (Justice League Dark)

Darkseid #1 (Justice League)

Ventriloquist #1 (Batman The Dark Knight)

Relik #1 (Green Lantern)

Cyborg Superman #1 (Action Comics)

Bizzaro #1 (Superman)

Grood #1 (Flash)

Poison Ivy #1 (Batman Detective Comics)

DC Comics Villain Month is a Transition

According to the interview, DC Comics Villain Month will be set up by the final events of the Trinity War crossover series. The events of the DC Comics Villain Month will lead into the first major crossover of the New 52 and will be entitled Forever Evil.

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Man of Steel Day is Coming on June 12

May. 22 News, TV & Movies Comments Off on Man of Steel Day is Coming on June 12

June 12, 2013 will be Man of Steel Day in comic book stores across the country as the comic book world celebrates the release of the new Superman movie. I think this is a smart move by the comic book publisher and should give DC Comics a strong chance of gaining back some of the market it has lost recently.

Man of Steel Day is June 12, 2013!

Man of Steel Day is June 12, 2013!

What’s the Big Deal with Man of Steel Day?

Of course, many (if not most) of the comic book stores across the country will have free promotional bags to stuff your orders into, they will also have free copies of All-Star Superman #1 Special Edition which will reprint the first chapter of Grant Morrison and Frank Quitely’s famous tale about Superman. Many comic book stores will also have special posters to promote the movie.

What Else is Going On?

Some comic book stores will have special promotions on Man of Steel Day to promote the movie. Wonderworld Comics is putting on the finishing touches right now and we should have more information posted on this site and on our Facebook page very soon. Keep your eyes open for more information.

The Idea of Man of Steel Day

DC Comics needs to do something outside of the box to increase sales and gain back some of the lost market share. By making Man of Steel Day into as big of an event as possible, the publisher can get fans talking about the movie and about Superman in general. Will Man of Steel Day bring in shoppers who have never been to a comic book store? Not sure. Either way, it should make some news and turn some more heads towards comic book stores in general, towards DC Comics, towards the new movies, and towards Superman.

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Detroit Fanfare Comic Con 2013 – What We Know So Far

May. 15 Conventions, News no comments

Detroit Fanfare Comic Con 2013 is still over five months away, but this year’s show is shaping up to be one for the record books. The fourth year for the convention will be one which will open even more eyes to the type of comics-forward convention the Motor City can put on. Here is the information about Detroit Fanfare Comic Con 2013 that we know so far.

detroit-fanfare

When?

Detroit’s Coolest Comic Con will be held from October 25 – October 27, 2013.

Where?

Detroit Fanfare Comic Con 2013 will be held at the Adoba Hotel Dearborn. This hotel used to be known as the Hyatt Regency Dearborn, but the location changed hands just after Detroit Fanfare 2012. Instead of simply having the left half of the first floor and a few rooms on the second floor, Detroit Fanfare Comic Con will not overtake the entire first floor of the Adoba Hotel Dearborn and a portion of the second floor. The convention will also still have full access to the Rotunda room on the top of the tower.

How Much?

Even though the convention is expanding, the promoters and staff are working hard to keep prices low. $15 will get you a one-day pass for the show. Weekend passes are only $20 and will get you in all three days. Children 12 and under will only be $5 on Friday and Saturday and will be free on Sunday. Parking will still be free.

Detroit Fanfare Comic Con 2013 was able to negotiate great rates for those staying this year at the Adoba Hotel Dearborn. The special convention rate will be $87 a night (plus regular taxes and fees). Each room stayed in for the convention will receive two weekend passes (A $40 value)!

Jim Starlin

Jim Starlin

What is Returning?

The Shel Dorf Awards, the Detroit Fanfare Zombie Walk, and the 24 hour gaming room (in the Rotunda) will all return this year. You will still be able to get an arm-full of comics through Blood 4 Comics and potentially save a life in the process (which isn’t that what being a superhero is all about?). The live Rocky Horror Picture Show viewing will be back along with Speed Painting and the silent auction. Don’t forget about all of the Cosplay events, costume contests, and trick or treating on Sunday for the kids – they will return to this year’s Detroit Fanfare Comic Con as well. A mermaid will be swimming again in the pool. Oh, and the Official Convention Party will be rocking the walls of the Adoba!

Rayn Stegman

Ryan Stegman

What is New for Detroit Fanfare Comic Con 2013?

Even though the calendar reads May (as of this writing), the planning for new activities, events, and surprises is in full swing for October. The biggest (and most noticeable) change will be the expansion of Detroit Fanfare Comic Con within the walls of the Adoba Hotel Dearborn. Crowds will be splitting off in more directions with the addition of the rooms on the right side of the hotel.

This year, the main showroom will focus on vendors which are directly related to comics. You will find the room filled with tons of comics, graphic novels, and comics-related merchandise. A second showroom on the opposite side of the hotel will be called the Bizarre Bazaar and will be the home of people who sell cool items, but are not directly related to comics. Artists Alley and the areas for Media Guests and Comics Guests will also be expanded.

Kid’s Day on Sunday is expanding with the addition of a Monster High Ice Cream Social, the Fairy Princess Training Camp, and the kids will also be able to try a hand at miniature construction with special LEGO building activities.

Brian O'Halloran Detroit Fanfare Comic Con 2013 Master of Ceremonies Emeritus

Brian O’Halloran
Detroit Fanfare Comic Con 2013
Master of Ceremonies Emeritus

Guests?

There are many months to announce guests, but the promoters and staff at Detroit Fanfare Comic Con have already made some big announcements. Brian O’Halloran (Dante from Clerks) will return this year to be the official Master of Ceremonies Emeritus! Comic book guests announce include Jim Starlin, Tim Seeley, Ryan Stegman, Arvell Jones, Keith Pollard, Dirk Manning, and many more. More guests are being added every week, so there will be a full roster to tell everyone about as the months pass.

New Website! 😉

The new website for Detroit Fanfare Comic Con 2013 should be easier to maneuver than in past years. It will be updated on a regular basis to give you all of the information you need to know when you need to know it!

This will be a huge year for Detroit Fanfare Comic Con! Check out the convention’s website and this website for more information as it becomes available. The promoters and staff are looking forward to a record-breaking year which will show why Detroit Fanfare is Detroit’s Coolest Comic Con and why it is the best!

To learn more about Detroit Fanfare Comic Con 2013, please follow this link to the official website!

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C2E2 Cosplay Pictures Part 2

Apr. 30 Conventions, News no comments
C2E2 Cosplay

C2E2 Cosplay

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C2E2 Cosplay

C2E2 Cosplay

One of the most interesting costumes.

One of the most interesting costumes.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

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C2E2 Cosplay

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C2E2 Cosplay

Who is this masked boozer?

Who is this masked boozer?

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

C2E2 Cosplay

C2E2 Cosplay

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Go home Waldo. You're drunk.

Go home Waldo. You’re drunk.

 

 

C2E2 Cosplay

C2E2 Cosplay

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

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This has to be my favorite picture of C2E2.

This has to be my favorite picture of C2E2.

 

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

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

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C2E2 Cosplay Pictures Part 1

Apr. 30 Conventions, News no comments

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

C2E2 Cosplay

C2E2 Cosplay

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

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

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C2E2 Impressions So Far (Opening)

Apr. 26 Conventions, News no comments

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

Can you find the best C2E2 freebies?

Can you find the best C2E2 freebies?

The Vendors

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

Traffic Flow

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

Artists Alley

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

Pricing

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

Staff

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

Cosplay

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

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

C2E2 Homepage

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

Apr. 18 News, TV & Movies no comments

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

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

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

Remember Being Worried About Marvel?

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

Marvel Movies

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

The Plans We Have Heard

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

The Possibilities

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

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What if Damian Wayne Stays Dead Forever?

Apr. 11 Characters, News no comments

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

Batman Incorporated

What if Damian Wayne stays dead forever?

We All Know

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

The Greatest Swerve in Decades

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

The Trends

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

Batman Incorporated #8 in our Amazon store

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Trinity War Triptych – True Meaning

Apr. 07 Comics, News Comments Off on Trinity War Triptych – True Meaning

The Trinity War triptych has everyone talking, but I am realizing that most comic book websites are missing key points in the picture. Too many people are reading into the action in the Trinity War triptych and not reading into the messages hidden inside.

The Trinity War triptych

The Trinity War triptych

What is Being Reported on the Trinity War Triptych?

Yes, it is interesting how Wonder Woman has her lasso around Constantine. Yes, it is interesting how the three factions of the Justice League (proper, Dark, and America) are fighting. These points, though, do not the key points of the collaborative picture at all. Am I the only one who sees the actual message?

Who Fights the Trinity War?

The original thoughts about the Trinity War pointed to a war between Superman, Batman, and Wonder Woman. Since the three factions of the Justice League are seen fighting in the triptych, many websites are discussing the “trinity” in the war being the Justice League factions. Why are they disregarding the idea of the Phantom Stranger, The Question, and Pandora being listed as the Trinity of Sin? Anyways, the picture clearly points to the three main players in the war.

Trinity War triptych focus

Trinity War triptych focus

Read the Picture

The Phantom Stranger and The Question are shown in clowdy form above the fighting. I read this as them not simply being watching the battle, but directing it as if the members of the Justice League factions are simply pawns in a greater battle. Where are they directing the battle?

If you were to draw a line from the Phantom Stranger’s eyes and from The Question’s eyes, you will note that they are both looking directly at the skull in Pandora’s clutches. If you were to draw a line from the Phantom Stranger to The Question, you will note that the shape created is an equilateral triangle. The equilateral triangle is a major symbol in Christianity since it symbolizes the equality of the Holy Trinity. Turn that and we have a triangle symbolizing the Trinity of Sin.

Reading Deeper

What is Pandora doing in the picture? As the world is fighting around her, she is protecting what appears to be a jeweled skull. It should be inferred that the Trinity War is centered on this skull. With Pandora’s own title coming out shortly, we should find out what the skull means within weeks.

I guess the amount of action in the picture has distracted most people from the true message of the Trinity War triptych. At least we appear to have an answer to the question about the Trinity War affecting more titles than just those in the DC Comics Dark Universe. The Trinity War will be fought the the Trinity of Sin with the factions of the Justice League being their pawns.

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Carrie Kelley the New Robin? Assume Nothing

Apr. 05 Characters, News Comments Off on Carrie Kelley the New Robin? Assume Nothing

According to the New York Times, it appears that Carrie Kelley may be the new Robin and will be introduced in next week’s Batman and Red Robin #19! The female Robin, who was first introduced in the graphic novel The Dark Knight Returns, will make her premiere in the New 52 DC Comics Universe in a matter of days. What are our thoughts?

Is Carrie Kelley the new Robin?

Is Carrie Kelley the new Robin?

Who is this Carrie Kelly You Speak Of?

In the DC Universe, Caroline Keene “Carrie” Kelly became the new Robin after saving Batman’s life in The Dark Knight Returns. In The Dark Knight Strikes Again, she assumed the identity of Catgirl. She has long had a cult following since she was the first official full-time female Robin. Carrie Kelley also appears in Ame-Comi Girls as she is the Robin in that continuity universe.

Carrie Kelly is New Robin from Now On?

Batman and Red Robin #19 writer Peter Tomasi claims “that she’s not exactly the ‘new Robin,’ but I don’t want to spoil the story.” Essentially, I take this as saying she is not being given the walk-on role of the new Robin. Of course, Carrie Kelley fans are going to hope she is allowed to assume the mantle of the most revered sidekick in all of comics.

The Swerves

The introduction of Carrie Kelley into the New 52 DC Comics Universe is a swerve, but I would expect there to be more swerves along the way in the upcoming months. Tomasi claims he is looking at having the character around for more than just one issue as he has plans for her in the future. Harper Row fans might still see the newer character assume the mantle. Others can still push for Damian to be tossed into the Pits and brought back to life.

No Assurances on Carrie Kelley as New Robin

At this point, we have not gained any pure assurances of Carrie Kelley truly becoming the new Robin. It would be premature of me to report her as such. While she will be pictured on the gatefold cover of Batman and Red Robin #19 as Robin, the extent of her in the role might be secluded to that cover page. We will not know anything for sure until DC Comics is ready for us to know. If DC Comics has proven anything so far is that we should not take anything for granted and we should not assume their moves. Remember, many of us were almost 100% sure Alfred was going to die in the “Death of the Family” storyline so we should not assume a new role for Carrie Kelley until we are told for sure.

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Justice League Dark Movie Helps DC, Hurts Marvel

Apr. 04 News, TV & Movies no comments

According to the reports out of WonderCon, Guillermo del Toro’s Justice League Dark movie is more developed than anyone had imagined. The movie, and more importantly the use of the DC Comics Dark Universe, opens up doors for more possibilities in the future which should get most DC Comics fans excited. It should also make Marvel at least a little nervous.

I can't wait for the Justice League Dark movie.

I can’t wait for the Justice League Dark movie.

Guillermo del Toro’s Justice League Dark Movie

While answering questions at WonderCon, del Toro discussed the characters which are involved at this point. We will have a blonde Constantine, the Jason Blood Etrigan, Swamp Thing, and Deadman. Many reports are also stated The Spectre and Zatanna will also play roles in the film. Guillermo del Toro also stated that a director would soon be announced and explained how there was already a bible written for the basic rules and flow of the Dark Universe. I guess fans of some of the other characters in Justice League Dark are going to be a little disappointed.

The Future of the Dark Universe

Let’s say Guillermo del Toro’s Justice League Dark movie gets off the ground. This could equal spin-off movies for characters such as Constantine, Deadman, Swamp Thing, and Etrigan. It could also mean an expansion of the Dark Universe in the future where we could see characters such as the Trinity of Sin (Phantom Stranger, Pandora, and The Question) have big screen debuts as well. The upcoming Trinity War could become a screenplay somewhere down the road. Could we see the chance of the House of Mystery movie at some point?

Why Marvel Fears the Justice League Dark Movie

If things can get rolling quickly on the Justice League Dark movie, Marvel could easily appear as if it is trying to catch up with their main rival. Word came out recently about Marvel moving forward with a Doctor Strange movie. If Justice League Dark gets up and running before then, Marvel will look like it is trying to bring out a mystical movie to compete with DC’s Dark Universe. While stalwart comic book fans might know this is incorrect, the general public will probably not and become discouraged about a “competitive mystical superhero movie.” The Dark Universe moves could even kill the plans for a Doctor Strange movie.

The Future for Other DC Movies After Justice League Dark Movie

Anyone who has been waiting for the Justice League movie knows DC has needed a kick in the pants to get the ball rolling on their BIG movie program. If Guillermo del Toro’s Justice League Dark movie can deliver, it might make the heads of DC ask “What the hell have we been waiting for?” Maybe the expansion of the Dark Universe can get things moving in the normal DC Universe.

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Term ‘Mutant’ Being Eliminated by Marvel In Uncanny Avengers #5?

Mar. 27 Comics, News no comments

An interesting move is made in Uncanny Avengers #5 and Marvel might be veering from the term “mutant.” As you read the comic this week, you might pass over the statement, but it is very important, and shows a step by Marvel to teach people to be more inclusive and accepting of others. While I have been critical of Marvel in the past, I have to give them special mention for this move.

Is Marvel getting away from using the term "mutant?"

Is Marvel getting away from using the term “mutant?”

Mutant Term

Without giving a spoiler, the suggestion is made in Uncanny Avengers #5 about doing away with the term “mutant.” At the same time, we should include the terms “mutie” and “genefreak” which have been used in the pages of Marvel Comics. In the comic, it is suggested that the term “mutant” is derogatory as it separates mutants from other humans.

Marvel Inclusion Through Mutant Statement

In the Marvel Universe, “mutant” may be on its way to becoming a term which is not politically correct. If the publisher is admitting the term separates and degrades a type of human, it is acknowledging all of the terms we have which separate types of humans from others. I am not going to go through a lineage of demeaning terms as examples, but you should know what types of terms will force people to feel different or excluded from society or a particular group.

Statement to Fans

If Marvel is eliminating the term “mutant” from the Marvel Universe vocabulary, it is a statement to all of us to eliminate demeaning terms from our own vocabulary. The business world has come down hard on people who do not understand the need for inclusive language, and now Marvel is stepping up to show its support of inclusion. Over the years, our the government and private organizations have tried to make a better place. Now it is time for Marvel to make the needed changes towards practicing what it preaches.

Thank You Marvel

Marvel has stepped up to the plate to take a swing at drugs, racism, homophobia, general hate, the oppression of women, and dozens of other social issues. By taking steps to suggest that the term “mutant” not be used in the future is a step towards eliminating hate speech which would make the world a better place to live. Good job Marvel. You reminded me why I have stayed a dedicated reader for so many years.

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Review of Gem City Comic Con 2013

Mar. 25 Conventions, News Comments Off on Review of Gem City Comic Con 2013

Gem City Comic Con 2013 has come to a close and I have to admit that I enjoyed myself. I am already looking forward to attending next year.

Gem City Comic Con

Gem City Comic Con

The Location

Gem City Comic Con 2013 was held at the Nutter Center at Wright State University. The stadium in which the convention was held was large enough to fit all of the dealers, signers, and other events without having too much room (which might create dead spaces). The aisles were spaced well and allowed for full movement. Even guests with strollers or wheelchairs found the conventions floor easily-accessible.

There were other events going on in the Nutter Center, such as cheerleading practice and practices for some of the basketball teams participating in the NCAA Tournament games being held nearby. The other events being held in the center did not apparently conflict in any way with Gem City Comic Con, and a nod should be given to Wright State University for proper event and logistics planning. I could not complain about the fact that there was free W-Fi in the building.

The Deals

While there were many deals to be had, I felt that some of the dealers were holding back. This could be because of how C2E2 in Chicago is only weeks away. Other dealers were almost giving product away in order to clear out their storage for the stock coming in for the big con next month. I was happy to find some deals, but they had to be searched for as they were not jumping out at you. $5 or 40% off graphic novels could be found at many dealer’s tables along with standard retail prices on many of the key issues typically found at cons. Just make sure to keep your eyes open for the deals.

Gaming

A corner of the convention was filled with Magic players. Their event did not conflict in any way (that I noticed) with the main con. I like to see cons which invite fans of other genres in order to increase foot traffic.

Food

I might always be harsh on conventions about their food offerings. The only food in the convention hall for general guests was from a center food booth. I picked up a pack of Reece’s Pieces and a 20oz pop for $6.75. People were eating the food from there out of desperation. Some workers did deliver food to artists and vendors, so at least there was another option for some onsite. Since the event was held on a college campus, outside food options were plenty as chains love to build by colleges. I just wish there were other options inside the event.

Staff

I have always said that if a staff member does not know the answer to a question, he or she should know where to get the answer in a prompt fashion. While this should be the norm, it typically is not for comic book conventions. The staff at Gem City Comic Con, though, had most of the answers and were not afraid to ask someone else if they did not know. I have to compliment the con organizers for taking the important step of making sure the staff was informed and had lines of communication open.

Gem City Comic Con Cosplay

Gem City Comic Con Cosplay

Cosplay

There were cosplayers, and many were dressed to impress. You can see more of the cosplay pictures from Gem City Comic Con by following this link.

Traffic

As more and more comic book convention move towards stocking their celebrity list with washed-up actors, former pro wrestlers, and ex-Playboy models, someone might think a comics-forward convention like Gem City Comic Con might not have much traffic. This could not be further from the truth. Traffic on Saturday was strong with dealers have few chances to sit down early in the day. Sunday was much lighter, but I would venture to say that the impending snowstorm had more to do with the decreased traffic than any other factor.

As I stated before, I am looking forward to Gem City Comic Con 2014. If you have the chance to head down to Dayton next year, I would suggest making the trip. You are going to have fun and you are going to be glad you came.

On one final note, if you are in the area, stop at One Eyed Jacks. The bar has some good local beer and great food. Anyone who is a regular reader of this site knows how much I love a beer. The Thai peanut wings were among the best wings I have ever had in my life! If I had known about this place when I was a travel writer, I might have written an entire article just on the wings.

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