---------------------------------------------------------------------- Ed Dukeshire and Mike Imboden Present: THE COMIC BOOK NET ELECTRONIC MAGAZINE ISSUE NUMBER 352 1/18/2002 Edited by: David LeBlanc - ComicBkNet@aol.com Nominated as FAVORITE COMIC EMAG in the 2001 EAGLE AWARDS! FREE VIA EMAIL SINCE FEBRUARY 1995 ______________________________________________________________________ C O N T E N T S ----------------------------------------------------------------------- [A] Submissions, mailing address, web page [1] On the Net ............................ David LeBlanc [2] Letters to the Editor ................. Your Page! [3] TRIVIA CONTEST ........................ Win *real* prizes! [4] Network Buzz .......................... News, gossip & rumors [5] Interview: Batton Lash ................ Tim O'Shea [6] A View From the Cheap Seats ........... Rich Watson [7] Comics Culture Shrapnel ............... Kris Naudus [8] M.O.E. Reviews ........................ Paul Dale Roberts [9] My View: WORLD WAR 3 ILLUSTRATED ...... David LeBlanc [10] New Comic Book Releases List .......... Charles LePage [11] HYPE! Section ......................... Various ______________________________________________________________________ World Wide Web Home Page-->> http://members.aol.com/ComicBkNet Mailed by Yahoo!: http://groups.yahoo.com/group/ComicBookNetworkEmag AOL text copies in Sci-Fi Library II - Keyword aol://4400:3990 HTML WEB EDITION at -->> http://www.digitalwebbing.com/cbem featuring a week's worth of the online strips: Steve Conley's ASTOUNDING SPACE THRILLS AND DR. CYBORG by Alan Gross & Mike Oeming ----------------------------------------------------------------------- o \o/ _ o _| \ / |_ o_ \o/ o /|\ | /\ _\o \o | o/ O/_ /\ | /|\ / \ / \ |\ /) | ( \ /o\ / ) | (\ / | / \ / \ ----------------------------------------------------------------------- The ComicBook Network was founded by Ed Dukeshire and Mike Imboden ----------------------------------------------------------------------- If you wish to receive each issue automatically through your Email account, FREE, please send a message FROM that account TO: ComicBookNetworkEmag-subscribe@yahoogroups.com To UNSUBSCRIBE send a message FROM the account to be dropped to: ComicBookNetworkEmag-unsubscribe@yahoogroups.com See section [A] for the address to mail material to be reviewed. ______________________________________________________________________ All text contained within is copyrighted to the originating author(s). Except where elsewhere noted, The Comic Book Net Electronic Magazine is Copyright 2002 by The ComicBook Network. You may freely distribute or retransmit this file intact without alteration for noncommercial purposes only. Except for personal archiving, permission must be obtained from the individual authors to reproduce, retransmit, or publish any part of this magazine. Opinions expressed in this publication are those of the authors and do not necessarily reflect the views or opinions of the Editor, the Network Administration Team or the members and users of The ComicBook Network. ______________________________________________________________________ ----------------------------------------------------------------------- [A] E-Mag Info: Submissions, Back Issues, Web Page SUBMISSIONS ----------- To submit an article, review, column, etc. to our Emag, simply Email it to the editor at: ComicBkNet@aol.com You must include your REAL name and a valid Email address in order to be published in this Emag. Sorry, we do not accept anonymous columns. Reviews of mainstream books are welcome and we encourage reviews of indies and self published material as we feel that material deserves more exposure to the general public. If you write intelligent, coherent, and timely reviews of any comic book it will almost always be printed, so give us a shot. Commentary on the state of the industry, and personal observations and reflections related to comics are *most* likely to be included in our publication. PLEASE, no material on Gaming, role playing, collectible card games or other hobbies or collectibles other than comic books. That also includes plugs for web pages UNLESS they are concerned with print comic books. We do not promote web comics as we do not consider them to be comic books. SEND US YOUR WORK ----------------- We also accept product for review purposes. Advanced copies of comic books will not be returned but any comic books sent to us *will* be reviewed in the ComicBook Net Emag. Send all material to: David L. LeBlanc 84 Heather Circle Jefferson, MA 01522-1419 Material is generally reviewed in the order received and be advised that we work a few weeks in advance so your review may not be in the magazine immediately. Advanced copies are therefore encouraged so the review will occur prior to your product hitting the stores. THE Comic Book Net WEB PAGE http://members.aol.com/ComicBkNet ---------------- If you have access to the World Wide Web, please stop by and visit our web page! On our web page, you can find the latest issue of our E-Mag, as well as all back issues and an annotated index. You'll also find important information and other neat features like links to the HTML version of the current issue of this magazine at DIGITAL WEBBING, [http://www.digitalwebbing.com/cbem], some of the comic companies and creators' web pages and many other Comic Book related links! You can also find some of our back issues at America Online, by going to Keyword: COMICS, then choose the menu item _Comic Book Forum_ and then going to the _Comics Library_ from there. These are non-zipped text files. AOL search/keyword: aol://4400:3990 ______________________________________________________________________ ----------------------------------------------------------------------- [1] On the Net David LeBlanc ComicBkNet@aol.com Very much in the news and in the stores these days are the various comic book artist's efforts to express their perceptions, and experiences around the events of September 11, 2001. I review one Such compilation this issue, WORLD WAR 3, which is the name of a Magazine. This time around they provide all work about the above theme Though a fair amount also preaches the theme we have scene now and then, that we deserved what we got, because of the policies of past administrations, Republican of course. On Balance there are also those who suggest we end the cycle of violence rather than assess blame or seek revenge. My review is mixed on this one. On the other hand, I strongly suggest you pick up 9-11 EMERGENCY RELIEF put out by Alternative Comics. It is a hefty $15 and worth every cent both in the total volume and quality of work. I look forward also to the September 11 volumes from DC, Dark Horse, Oni, and others. Meanwhile, sample some of these new books: CROSSGEN COMICS Negation #2, 2.95 Sigil #20, 2.95 Sojourn #7, 2.95 DC COMICS Haven The Broken City #2 (Of 9), 2.50 Monarchy #10, 2.50 DORK STORM PRESS Pvp #4, 2.99 IMAGE COMICS Black Tide #2, 2.95 Noble Causes #1, 2.95 INSIGHT STUDIOS GROUP Liberty Meadows Wedding Album, 2.95 <---pick of the week! MARVEL COMICS Origin #4, 3.50 X-Force #123, 2.25 As an individual and business traveler I have gotten past the emotional reactions to 9/11/01 and deal with the practical consequences routinely now. I fly a fair amount and have adjusted schedules to add more time up front and allow for delays that may occur before I get where I am going. I never hesitate to accommodate security people and to thank them when they try to be as thorough as they can. I am not fearful to fly and most people in line appear to be more patient these days, still. I think the impact of the devastation in New York, DC and Pennsylvania will stay with us for a long time. I won't forget it, but I won't let it stop me from doing the best I can for my employer, my family and my friends. Mrs. CBEM and I are now planning a vacation in February and we will be flying out of Boston's now infamous Logan Airport. I think I will be wearing loafers so I can take them off easily when asked. Stay safe, and let's be careful out there. David LeBlanc - ComicBkNet@aol.com Editor The Comic Book Net Electronic Magazine ______________________________________________________________________ ----------------------------------------------------------------------- [2] Letters to the Editor If you want to comment on this or any previous issue, want to offer something for us to publish, or just want to shamelessly suck up to the editor to try and get your name in print send Email to: ComicBkNet@aol.com Note: Letters of comment, including those sent to the columnists, may be used in future issues of CBEM unless you specifically request us NOT to use them. Your Email address and/or name will be withheld upon request. +++++ Subj:My words to John Buscema. Date:1/13/02 3:30:24 AM Eastern Standard Time From:Silhouet98@cs.com It's hard for me to realize that a great legend like John Buscema has passed away from stomach cancer. A man like this is immortal. He's immortal through his artwork that he did for Timely and Marvel. I grew up with John Buscema and his departure from our world is a great tragedy. His most recent work in which Archie encounters The Punisher was one of my most favorite crossovers. I'm one of those comic book readers that gets a kick out of crossovers and this one was the most unusual and I wanted to personally thank John for making this cross- over work! John is really going to be missed by the comic book community, his work will live on forever and his greatness will always be in every comic book aficionado's heart. John thank you for making my life happy through your artwork! Godspeed. Sincerely yours, Paul Dale Roberts, Production Marshall Jazma Universe Online! http://www.jazmaonline.com/ 5606 Moonlight Way Elk Grove, CA 95758 Silhouet98@cs.com +++++ Subj:Online comics From:duality@dualityentertainment.com From 1992 to 1999, Arvin Loudermilk and I produced over 1000 pages of VIGIL, a modern vampire crime saga. We have now converted this comic into a weekly online experience. We also are currently working on COLLECTIVE, a science-fiction adventure. It is presented monthly in a downloadable PDF format. Both comics are absolutely FREE and there's a ton of extra goodies (wallpaper, sketch galleries, "making of...") for both books. The books can be seen at the following addresses: (VIGIL) http://dualityentertainment.com/vighome.html (COLLECTIVE) http://dualityentertainment.com/colhome.html Thanks, Mike Iverson -- Duality Entertainment www.dualityentertainment.com ______________________________________________________________________ ----------------------------------------------------------------------- [3] [TRIVIA CONTEST] **THE FIRST PLACE TO FIND THE EMAG EACH WEEK IS ON OUR HOME PAGE!** IF YOU ARE DESPERATE TO WIN THE TRIVIA, GO THERE FIRST ON FRIDAY NIGHT http://members.aol.com/ComicBkNet QUESTION OF THE WEEK Prizes donated by Discount Comic Book Service at www.dcbservice.com where you can order most DC, Marvel, Image, and Dark Horse comics, statues and retail products for 35% off. +Submit your own trivia and win the CHEEZY PRIZE(tm) if you can stump+ +the readers! You MUST submit the correct answer with your question.+ LAST ISSUE'S QUESTION OF THE WEEK: Which US state capital is (or perhaps was, by now) the only one NOT to have a McDonald's within the city limits? We had a few guessing Juneau, Alaska - presumedly because it is so remote - and even Salt Lake City - for religious reasons(?) - but according to McDonalds.com it's Montpelier, Vermont. The nearest McDonalds is at 1332 US Route 302 in Barre, Vermont a mere 2.8 miles from Montpelier. Bob "The Law is a Ass" Ingersoll wins again, and once again gave us a complete explanation. He wins Green Arrow: Longbow Hunters TP from our sponsor. +++++++++++++++++++++++++++ THIS WEEK'S TRIVIA QUESTION: A two-parter, get them both to win: Where did Defiant's "Warriors of Plasm" make their comic debut? Which publisher forced Defiant to change the title to WARRIORS OF PLASM? IMPORTANT RULES NOTICE Email your guess to ComicBkNet@aol.com or just REPLY to the message if you read the Emag in your mail. DO NOT quote the entire message! You MUST allow mail from ComicBkNet@aol.com to be notified if you win. The first correct answer to reach the editor wins the CHEEZY PRIZE(tm). The editor will be the sole judge as to which guess arrived first! Messages with more than one guess will be disqualified. Winners will forfeit their prize if the Email notification is not accepted from ComicBkNet@aol.com LIMIT: ONLY ONE PRIZE every 4 weeks PER PERSON! ______________________________________________________________________ ----------------------------------------------------------------------- [4] Network Buzz News, gossip and rumors from around the industry SPX Puts Out Call for Anthology Submissions This Year's Book Focuses on Biography For the first time, the SPX anthology, an annual book that both serves as a showcase for small-press and alternative comics creators as well as a fund-raiser for the Comic Book Legal Defense Fund, will focus on a theme. The theme for SPX 2002, one of the only major anthologies in the North American comic market that takes outside submissions, is biographical comics. The stories should be about real people, in some way famous or interesting. Submissions for SPX 2002 must be received no later than April 15th, 2002. For complete details, see http://www.spxpo.com/anthology.htm. For further questions regarding submissions, contact Tom Devlin at expo2000book@highwaterbooks.com. Annually, more than 50 cartoonists from around the world contribute to the SPX anthology, the book companion to the annual SPX comics festival in Bethesda, Md. The book, which will be sold at comic-book shops and The EXPO Presents: SPX 2002 (Sept. 6-8), features well over 300 pages of cutting-edge comics by some of the top creators in alternative comics and the small press. Past contributors have included Frank Cho (Liberty Meadows), Daniel Clowes (Eightball, Ghost World), Renée French (The Soap Lady, Marbles in My Underpants), Megan Kelso (Queen of the Black Black, Girl Hero), James Kochalka (Monkey vs. Robot, Sketchbook Diaries), Thomas Ott (Exit), Seth (Palooka-Ville), Art Spiegelman (Maus, Little Lit), Craig Thompson (Good-Bye, Chunky Rice), Adrian Tomine (Optic Nerve), Lewis Trondheim (The Nimrod), and Chris Ware (Jimmy Corrigan, The Acme Novelty Library). The EXPO is a nonprofit organization with the primary purpose of promoting comics, animation, cartooning and related popular art forms through the presentation of conventions and events that celebrate the historic and ongoing contribution of those media to art and culture. All profits from SPX and its comics anthology companion benefit the nonprofit Comic Book Legal Defense Fund (http://www.cbldf.org). The CBLDF fights censorship and defends the First Amendment rights of comic book creators, retailers and publishers throughout the United States. Press Contact: Christopher Skokna, (410) 523-2300, x217, day; (410) 243-6421, evening; criss@spxpo.com. +++++ Plans for SPX 2002 Coming Together Comics Festival Scheduled for Sept. 6-8 in Bethesda, Md. The events of Sept. 11 may have forced the cancellation of SPX 2001, but that hasn't stopped organizers from busying themselves preparing for this year's festival. The EXPO Presents: SPX 2002 is scheduled for the weekend of Sept. 6-8, 2002, at the Holiday Inn Select in downtown Bethesda, Md., just one mile outside Washington, D.C., says new Executive Director Greg McElhatton. The annual comics festival, North America's premier showcase for alternative and small-press cartoonists and publishers, annually brings together more than 300 artists and publishers to meet their readers, retailers, distributors, and each other. This year it is open to the public 3 p.m.-8p.m. Friday, Sept. 6, and 10 a.m.-6 p.m. on Saturday, Sept. 7. Admission is $7 for one day, $12 for a weekend pass. Tickets will be sold at the door. Those already signed up for this year's show include Alternative Comics, Jessica Abel (Artbabe, La Perrida), Frank Cho (Liberty Meadows), Evan Dorkin (Dork, Milk & Cheese), Fantagraphics Books, Keith Knight (The K Chronicles), Carla Speed McNeil (Finder), and Top Shelf Productions, "We took a hit last year, but we're back on our feet and we and expect this to be the best SPX yet," says McElhatton, a member of the festival's steering committee since 1997 and last year's assistant director. McElhatton, involved in comics fandom since 1991, was an Eisner and Harvey Award nominee for co-editing the festival's Expo 2000 anthology. "We're working hard to line up some great guests," he says. "It's still early in the process, and already we have a lot of great creators on board for this year. People interested in registering for a table should go to our newly redesigned Web site at www.spxpo.com. Creators and attendees who still have plane tickets from last year should also note that, because of the earlier date for this year's show, they may be able to reuse those tickets to fly here this year." In 2000, more than 1,000 paid attendees, plus dozens of retailers, distributors, and other comics professionals, participated in SPX. Numerous panels and group discussions with comics artists from around the world will be held throughout the day Sept. 7. Many of the panels will be sponsored by SPX's sister event, the International Comics and Animation Festival (http://go.to/ICAF), an academic convocation sponsored by Georgetown University and the French Embassy. On Saturday evening, SPX will host the fifth annual Gala Ignatz Awards Ceremony, where small-press creators will be recognized for their talent with festival prizes determined by a ballot of SPX attendees and exhibitors. And on Sunday morning, the Small Press Summit will feature panels and group discussions on topics important to independent comics creators. The EXPO is a nonprofit organization with the primary purpose of promoting comics, animation, cartooning and related popular art forms through the presentation of conventions and events that celebrate the historic and ongoing contribution of those media to art and culture. Past featured guests have included Will Eisner (The Spirit, A Contract With God), Frank Miller (Sin City, 300), Neil Gaiman (Mr. Punch, The Sandman), Dave Sim (Cerebus), and Stan Sakai (Usagi Yojimbo). Last year's featured guests were to have included Art Spiegelman (Maus, Little Lit), Jaime and Gilbert Hernandez (Love and Rockets), and Bryan Talbot (The Tale of One Bad Rat, Adventures of Luther Arkwright). All profits from SPX and its comics anthology companion (SPX 2002) benefit the nonprofit Comic Book Legal Defense Fund (http://www.cbldf.org). The CBLDF fights censorship and defends the First Amendment rights of comic book creators, retailers and publishers throughout the United States. Press Contact: Christopher Skokna, (410) 523-2300, x217, day; (410) 243-6421, evening; criss@spxpo.com. +++++ TRINA'S FIRST SLIDE SHOW AND BOOK SIGNING FOR "THE GREAT WOMEN CARTOONISTS!" On Thursday evening, January 24, at 7 PM, I'll be at FOTO-GRAFIX BOOKS, presenting the first slide show for my newest book, "The Great Women Cartoonists." After the slide show, I'll be answering questions (come with lots of questions, I love to talk!) and signing copies of the book that Time magazine online voted #5 on their list of the ten best comic-related books of 2001, and about which Michael Chabon wrote, "The universe is grateful to Trina Robbins for this book." FOTO-GRAFIX BOOKS is at 655 Mission Street, in sunny San Francisco, adjoining the San Francisco Cartoon Art Museum, so you can make a night of it and visit the museum, too. Come even if you don't want to buy anything. I give great slide show! For more information, call (415) 495-7242, or e-mail me at mswuff@juno.com Cheers, Trina Robbins +++++ Blue Line Pro Contact: Mike Maydak Publicity Director Tel: 859-282-0096 Fax: 859-282-9412 Email: mikem@bluelinepro.com FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE January 2002 Photo: Cover of LWM Perfect Collection #2 LITTLE WHITE MOUSE PERFECT COLLECTION #2 The History Continues This April, Blue Line Pro Comics continues to collect the history of Little White Mouse with LITTLE WHITE MOUSE PERFECT COLLECTION #2. Collecting the hard-to-find second series, this trade paperback is filled with tons of extra artwork and sketches never before published! Demand for Little White Mouse is on the rise and this trade delivers! This collection features the art and writing of series creator PAUL SIZER, along with additional artwork and pin-ups from a growing cast of big-name creators including JEFF MOY and W.C. CARANI (Legionnaires), MARK CRILLEY (Akiko) and "king of mini-comics" MATT FEAZELL (Cynicalman). This series also contains two of the most popular LWM features produced to date; the manga-style blow-out "Fever Dream" and Matt Feazell's manic take on Loo and company, "Little Cynical Mouse!” An extensive sketchbook section featuring never-before published character drawings, concept sketches, and pin-ups by Sizer rounds out this collection. The trade features 144 b/w interior pages with a brand new full color cover by Sizer. Little White Mouse Perfect Collection #2 will be available in the February edition of Previews at a SRP of $14.95. Blue Line Pro is the leading provider of comic book art boards and art supplies, providing the proper tools, knowledge, and professional edge to established and aspiring creators around the world. Along with BLP Comics, Blue Line Pro is the parent company and publisher of Sketch Magazine, the world's leading industrial trade publication among the comic book industry +++++ CONTACT: Jim McLauchlin (310) 268 1530 ACTOR AUCTION AT MEGACON 2002 ADDS ITEMS STRAIGHT FROM THE PERSIAN GULF LOS ANGELES, Calif., - JANUARY 14, 2002 - ACTOR (A Commitment To Our Roots), a non-profit organization dedicated to helping older comic creators in need, has teamed up with CrossGeneration Comics to bring items to its next charity auction from halfway around the world. CrossGen sent a pair of massive art prints to the USS Theodore Roosevelt, currently stationed in the Persian Gulf as Part of Operation: Enduring Freedom. The entire crew of the ship has autographed the prints and sent them back. The pair will be auctioned separately at ACTOR's next charity auction at the Orlando MegaCon at the Orange County Convention Center from February 22-24, 2002. Proceeds for these two prints will be split between ACTOR and the Navy-Marine Corps Relief Society, the charity of choice of the Theodore Roosevelt crew. "We are very happy that the sailors on board the USS Roosevelt, who are risking their lives to protect our freedom, found some time to sign these posters for these two great causes," said CrossGen Director of Corporate Communications, Ian M. Feller. "Only two of these signed poster sets will exist. One will hang in the CrossGen offices, the other will be auctioned at MegaCon. Talk about owning a piece of history!" The ACTOR auction consists of over 100 lots, including a treasure trove of original art and signed manuscripts from comic artists and writers. Kevin Smith, writer and director of such hit films as "Clerks" and "Jay and Silent Bob Strike Back," will serve as guest auctioneer. Comic art lots from CrossGen Comics Senior Artist George P‚rez have already been donated, as have donations from Uncanny X-Men artist Ian Churchill, World Fantasy Award winner Charles Vess, "Liberty Meadows" creator Frank Cho, award-winning painter Alex Ross, comics legend Carmine Infantino, WildStorm Productions Editorial Director Jim Lee, Marvel Comics Editor-in-Chief Joe Quesada, and popular CrossGen artists Butch Guice and Greg Land. About ACTOR. ACTOR (A Commitment to Our Roots) is dedicated to providing relief and support to many of the talented creators who helped found the comic book industry. Many Golden Age or Silver Age creators toiled in comics' earlier days for low pay and with a nonexistent pension plan. Today, many of these people who laid the groundwork that today's comic industry works on may be in financial need. Be it due to age, health or just low salaries with no retirement plan, they may need a hand. ACTOR provides a safety net for former comic creators in need. ACTOR is dedicated to helping creators with emergency medical aid, financial support, and entrance back into paying work. ACTOR's 501 (c) (3) paperwork, making it an official non-profit organization, was approved by the federal government in February, 2001. ACTOR is served by two boards of directors, Jim McLauchlin of Wizard Entertainment, Mark Alessi of CrossGen Comics, Brian Pulido of Chaos! Comics, Pat McCallum of Wizard Entertainment, Joe Quesada of Marvel Comics, Michael Richardson of Dark Horse Comics and Jim Valentino of Image Comics comprise the Executive/Fund Raising Board which administers the fund's operations and raises money. Dick Giordano, Joe Kubert, Dennis O'Neil, George P‚rez, John Romita Sr., and Roy Thomas make up a peer group Fund Disbursement Board that will hear petitions and disburse funds to worthy applicants. Perez and Thomas are the Co- chairs of that board. For more information or to send donations to ACTOR please contact: ACTOR (A Commitment To Our Roots) 11301 Olympic Blvd, #587 Los Angeles, CA 90064 Tel: 310 268 1530 About MegaCon MegaCon is the Southeast's premier comics, gaming, anime and multi- media event, featuring over 100,000 square feet of exhibit space. Among the hundreds of comic book creators on hand to meet fans and sign autographs include: Sergio Aragon‚s, Brian Michael Bendis, Carmine Infantino, Mike Avon Oeming, George P‚rez, David Mack, Greg Rucka, Barry Windsor-Smith, Bernie Wrightson, Greg Land, Joseph Michael Linsner, Nick Cardy, George Tuska, Martin Nodell and Harry Lampert. For more information or to order MegaCon tickets, go to www.megaconvention.com For continuing updates and to view new art donated to the Orlando MegaCon auction, go to www.ACTORComicFund.org Art attached: USS Theodore Roosevelt prints featuring Ethan from Scion; and characters from The First +++++ AMAZING SPIDER-MAN DOUBLES SALES IN LESS THAN ONE YEAR! J. Michael Straczynski & John Romita, Jr. Propel AMAZING SPIDER-MAN Over The 100,000 Mark! Comic book fans know that Spider-Man is the original underdog, famous for triumphing over unbeatable odds and overwhelming threats. But could he overcome his own fans' apathy? That's exactly what the web-slinger faced at the beginning of 2001, as readers continued to flee from Spidey's friendly neighborhood in record numbers. But in less than one year, the wall- walker has rebounded, leaping to the top of the charts, with AMAZING SPIDER- MAN, his flagship title by J. Michael Straczynski and John Romita, Jr, now once again regularly topping 100,000 units in sales. In fact, not only has the title been selling over 100,000 units since issue #36 (the historic World Trade Center story), but sales have actually doubled since May of 2001. "The team of JMS and JR JR have proven to be more than cool initials, they've proven to be the best storytelling team in comics today," said Editor In Chief Joe Quesada. "I have been calling Johnny Romita Jr. 'The World's Greatest Comic Artist' since the day I started at Marvel, over three years ago. But now teamed with Joe, the two are reaching unequaled heights and readers are rewarding them by returning to AMAZING SPIDER-MAN in droves! What Joe and John have done is nothing short of miraculous in such a short period of time, and I'm as proud as can be to have them both in the Marvel family." "I'm thrilled by the numbers of course, but I think that JMS and JR are just beginning to build the audience for AMAZING SPIDER-MAN," stated Sr. Editor Axel Alonso. "So far, readers have only seen this team's opening salvo. The best is yet to come." Those who have yet to experience the AMAZING renaissance can go to Marvel.com and read the Marvel dotComics of AMAZING SPIDER-MAN #30 and #31 right now -- for free! Those hungering for web-slinging action on the printed page can find the AMAZING SPIDER-MAN: COMING HOME trade paperback -- containing the first six issues by Straczynski and Romita, Jr. -- as well as monthly issues of AMAZING SPIDER-MAN at their local comics shop! Bill Rosemann Marketing Communications Manager Marvel Comics +++++ Marvel's Daredevil, One of the Best-selling Comic Book Superheroes of All Time, to Debut on Next-generation Console Systems LOS ANGELES--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Jan. 14, 2002--Marvel's Daredevil, one of the most popular comic book superheroes of all time, will soon come to life on next-generation console systems. Encore, Inc. announced today that the company has signed an exclusive, five-year, worldwide agreement with Marvel Enterprises, Inc. (NYSE:MVL), one of the world's most prominent character-based entertainment companies, to publish exciting action-adventure games starring Daredevil. Daredevil ranks among the most beloved characters in the Marvel Universe, alongside other superhero icons Spider-Man, The X-Men and The Incredible Hulk. With an avid fan base that numbers in the millions, he consistently outsells his superhero competition. Daredevil currently holds four of the top 25 comic book spots (source: Diamond Distributors, the leading comic book distributor in the world), and over the past 12 months, the comic book series has sold over 2 million copies. The game's release will coincide with the world premiere of the highly anticipated "Daredevil" movie, starring Ben Affleck, which is scheduled for debut during the 2002 holiday season. This live-action film will hopefully be the first in a series of "Daredevil" movies expected to release over the next five years. It is being produced by Marvel Studios and New Regency Productions, and distributed by 20th Century Fox. "Marvel's Daredevil is an enormously popular character with a huge fan base who are eagerly awaiting this videogame," said Michael Bell, chairman and CEO of Encore. "The debut of the console game and the live-action film, will not only dramatically expand that fan base, but also propel Daredevil into mainstream popular culture. "For Encore, this agreement underscores our leadership as an interactive entertainment publisher focusing on highly recognizable, mass-market brands. Daredevil will be one of many blockbuster console games our company will publish in 2002." Russ Brown, senior vice president of consumer products at Marvel Enterprises, Inc., added, "Videogames are a natural extension of our comic books, and a great way to introduce this core Marvel character to current and prospective fans. To make the game even more exciting, 'Daredevil' will feature supporting roles by some of our other hot characters, including Elektra, a femme fatale from the movie who has a proficiency in martial arts; Bullseye, the ruthless assassin determined to murder 'Daredevil'; and Kingpin, ruler of the East Coast underworld." "Daredevil"'s Story Comes to Life Daredevil -- also known as the Man Without Fear -- is lawyer Matt Michael Murdock by day, superhuman adventurer by night. Blinded in a childhood accident, Daredevil upholds his passion for justice and rises to superhuman levels through hyper-developed senses of hearing, smell and touch, and extraordinary acrobatic abilities. He uses these skills, as well as his fighting baton and grappling hook -- disguised as his blind-man's cane during the day -- to battle Kingpin and other malicious criminals from his Hell's Kitchen, New York City, base of operations. Elektra -- Femme Fatale The software publishing rights granted by Marvel include the character Elektra. In the "Daredevil" videogame, she will have a supporting role where she partners with Daredevil in his battle against evil. In the comic book series, Elektra is key as one of Daredevil's girlfriends and dynamic ally. Her current popularity is evidenced by the sales success of Marvel's recently launched Elektra comic series, and by the major role she will have in the "Daredevil" movie. For more information on Encore, visit www.encoresoftware.com. For more information on Marvel, visit www.marvel.com. +++++ Publishers Weekly has listed 9-11: Emergency Relief (ISBN 1-891867-12-1) as their Book of the Day for Monday, January 14, 2002. ------------------------------------------------------------ PW Daily Book of the Day: 9-11 Emergency Relief On the morning of September 11, Jeff Mason, a defense attorney who doubles as the publisher of Alternative Comics, an independent Florida publisher of comix and graphic novels, made a frantic call to a New York City cartoonist friend while watching the World Trade Center Towers burn. "He was freaking out," said Mason, "but right then and there, the same day, we decided to do a book." 9-11 Emergency Relief, the book they spoke about that morning, is now out and contains the works of 83 cartoonists who recount their reactions and experiences in the aftermath of the horrific attack. Many of the artists focus on the moment when they first realized what was happening and go on to detail the disbelief, fear and frenzied efforts to reach friends, loved ones and acquaintances. The book is about their most private reflections--from the most poignant to the bleakly comic--about the events of September 11, 2001. Mason told PW Daily that the 83 contributors were winnowed down from early 300 submissions. "A lot of people couldn't work after the attacks," he said. "They wanted to do something but didn't know what. I told them I wanted subjectivity. I wanted humanity not politics. I wanted the book to be a window into what people were feeling, so that when people look at it 20 years from now, they'll know something about how we responded." The book includes the work of such well-known comics artists as Harvey Pekar, Jessica Abel, Jeff Smith, Nick Bertozzi, Dean Haspiel, Ted Rall, Tony Millionaire and others. All proceeds from the sale of the book will be donated to the American Red Cross. The first printing is for 40,000 copies and distribution is through Diamond (nonreturnable), LPC, Last Gasp, Cold Cut and FM. Mason has also organized book signings and in-store appearances with many of the book's contributors at bookstores around the country. On January 22, images from 911 Emergency Relief along with images from several other benefit comix and graphic novels will go on exhibit at the New York City Fire Museum at 278 Spring St. Booksellers interested in attending the press party on January 23 should contact Mason at 352-373-6336 or visit the benefit Web site at www.indyworld.com/relief -- Calvin Reid Jeff Mason Alternative Comics http://www.indyworld.com/altcomics Phone: 352-373-6336 E-Mail: jmason@indyworld.com +++++ MILLIGAN AND EWINS' SKREEMER RETURNS THIS SUMMER SOMERVILLE, MA - January 15, 2002. Cyberosia Publishing announced today that it is bringing SKREEMER, current X-Force scribe Peter Milligan and 2000AD artist Brett Ewins' seminal work, back into print. "SKREEMER is one of the great hidden treasures of the comics canon," said publisher Scott O. Brown. "When it was originally published in the late eighties, SKREEMER was years ahead of its time. Peter and Brett created a dark, foreboding America scrounging to survive and gave it an unexpected glimmer of hope. SKREEMER is what would have happened if James Joyce wrote dystopian graphic novels." "I had always been into gangster films and sci-fi. So I put the two together and came up with Skreemer," says SKREEMER co-creator and artist Brett Ewins. "I also was a huge fan of the film, Once Upon a Time in America, and I wanted to create a comic with the same depth. Peter Milligan was also a fan of the film, in fact, we both saw it for the first time together. So I drew all the characters and handed it over to Milligan. I was also working a lot with Steve Dillon on DEADLINE magazine so we decided to do the job together. All in all it was a great team effort, and for it we won an Eagle Award for best UK US series." SKREEMER will be collected for the first time in one volume. The 176 page, full color book will be re-lettered and "digitally re-mastered" with new colors by colorist Christopher Butcher (The ADVENTURES OF EVIL & MALICE, GO GIRL). SKREEMER will be released this summer, but Cyberosia will offer readers a glimpse of this influential series when it reprints the first issue in black and white for Free Comics Day. "The time is right to make SKREEMER available to a new audience," continued Scott, "and Free Comics Day is an excellent venue to showcase a preview of this long missed series." Cyberosia Publishing publishes acute horror, science fiction, and literary graphic novels. Cyberosia Publishing's books are distributed to the Trade by Biblio Distribution, a division of National Book Network, Inc., 800-462-6420, and are available to the specialty market through Diamond Comic Distributors and FM International. For more information, visit www.cyberosia.com or email publisher Scott O. Brown at scott@cyberosia.com. +++++ UC Berkeley Extension Gets Serious About the Funnies BERKELEY, Calif.--(ENTERTAINMENT WIRE)--Jan. 16, 2002--In what promises to be among the first scholarly examinations into the artistic, literary and revolutionary impact of the modern comic book world, Dark Hotel originator Bob Callahan leads a UC Berkeley Extension evening lecture and accompanying course this spring highlighting the work of such old masters as Art Spiegelman, R. Crumb, Joe Sacco and Harvey Pekar. Bob Callahan's Dark Hotel comic strip first gained notoriety on Salon.com. A poet, writer, and editor, Callahan is president of the Before Columbus Foundation, a multicultural writers' organization he co-founded with Ishmael Reed. "The Comics Get Real," Callahan's slide-illustrated lecture, will take place Wed., Feb. 13, 7:30-9:30 pm, in McCone Hall on the UC Berkeley campus in Berkeley. The event is free, but space is limited. To reserve a space, call (510) 642-4111 or reserve online at www.berkeley.edu. The lecture will focus on the cultural moment in 1992 when Art Spiegelman's Maus received the Pulitzer Prize. Callahan proposes this event as the signal of the comics' evolution from a form of vulgar entertainment into a new and sophisticated art form. A related ten-session course, "The Comics Come of Age," will be held on Wednesdays, Feb. 27-May 8, 6:30-9:30 pm, in Dwinelle Hall on the UC Berkeley campus in Berkeley. The fee is $325. To enroll, call (510) 642-4111 or enroll online at www.unex.berkeley.edu. In this course, offered for two semester units of academic credit, Callahan will explore the comics' development in greater breadth and depth as a 20th century American pop culture achievement. For a free catalog listing 1,400 courses offered by UC Berkeley Extension this spring in locations around the Bay and beyond, call toll-free 1-888-UC-SMART (888-827-6278) or visit Extension's website at www.unex.berkeley.edu UC Berkeley Extension press releases are online at www.unex.berkeley.edu CONTACT: UC Berkeley Extension Kap Stann, 510/643-8093 Email: kjs@unx.berkeley.edu +++++ Universal Interactive Signs Incredible Deal, Acquires Video Game Rights To Marvel Comics' The Incredible Hulk UNIVERSAL CITY, Calif., Jan. 16 /PRNewswire/ -- Universal Interactive, Inc. (UI) announced today that the company has signed an agreement with Marvel Characters, Inc. for the rights to create video games based on The Incredible Hulk(TM) franchise. The license agreement enables Universal Interactive to build a video game franchise based on the enormously popular Marvel Comics character. Caught in the heart of a nuclear explosion, a victim of gamma radiation gone wild, Dr. Robert Bruce Banner finds himself transformed during times of stress into the dark personification of his repressed rage and fury -- The Incredible Hulk. The most powerful man-like creature ever to walk the face of the earth, The Incredible Hulk first appeared in comic books in 1962. "Universal Interactive specializes in creating video games that add value to world-renowned franchises," said Russ Brown, senior vice president, consumer products, promotions and media sales for Marvel. "Marvel and Universal Interactive are dedicated to delivering The Incredible Hulk to his fans in the form of interactive entertainment." "The Incredible Hulk is a classic entertainment franchise that provides innumerable creative possibilities to explore," said Jim Wilson, president of Universal Interactive. "UI is looking forward to creating video games that convey all the excitement of The Incredible Hulk and push the envelope on gameplay mechanics." Specific game titles and video game systems for The Incredible Hulk franchise have not been announced. The Incredible Hulk and Marvel are trademark(s) of Marvel Characters, Inc., and are used with permission. Copyright (C) 2001 Marvel Characters, Inc. All rights reserved. www.marvel.com . +++++ Archie Entertainment, Lou Pearlman and ZelnickMedia Join Forces The Archies and Josie and the Pussycats Music Groups to Be Launched for Recordings, Tours, Live Action and Animated Television and Movies, Sponsorships and Merchandising NEW YORK, Jan. 16 /PRNewswire/ -- Archie Entertainment Co-Chairman Michael Silberkleit, Lou Pearlman and ZelnickMedia principal Strauss Zelnick today announced the creation of a joint venture to launch real life music groups based upon The Archies and Josie and the Pussycats comic book character music groups of Archie Entertainment's affiliate, Archie Comic Publications, Inc. Over the years, the music sung by The Archies and Josie and the Pussycats in their hit TV series, motion pictures and musical recordings, including the song "Sugar, Sugar" which was the number one song for 1969, was performed by studio musicians. Under the terms of the agreement, Archie Entertainment will license the venture to create The Archies and Josie and the Pussycats as real life music groups. The venture will launch a nationwide talent search in cities across the United States to discover members for The Archies and Josie and the Pussycats music groups. Following the search, the two groups will begin work immediately on their debut albums and commence a rigorous schedule of rehearsals in advance of touring. Sponsorships, merchandising and commercial tie-ins will be handled exclusively by the venture, as will other ancillary activities involving the groups such as live action and animated television specials and series, and live action and animated theatrical and direct-to-video motion pictures. The content of every activity involving the groups will be subject to the approval of Archie Entertainment, in order to preserve the wholesome tradition of the beloved fictional Riverdale High School teenagers first introduced in the 1940s. Michael Silberkleit, Archie Entertainment said, "We are very excited to see our characters, who have lived in the imaginations of generations of readers, come to life as members of singing groups that, with Lou's help, are sure to be loved by kids, young and old, just like the Backstreet Boys and *NSYNC." "I am proud to be associated with ZelnickMedia and Archie Entertainment. I hope to have as much fun developing these projects as the public will have watching and listening to them," said Lou Pearlman. "We are thrilled to be partnering with Archie Entertainment and Lou Pearlman on this new endeavour," said Strauss Zelnick, ZelnickMedia. "The Archies and Josie and the Pussycats have long and successful legacies and the opportunity to work with Lou on this new venture is exhilarating." Archie Comic Publications Inc. launched Archie Entertainment in September of 2001 under the direction of Chuck Grimes in order to pursue an exciting array of new family oriented entertainment projects. "This joint venture is the first in a slate of new projects Archie Entertainment will be launching during 2002 as Archie Comics celebrates its diamond jubilee 60 year anniversary," said Richard Goldwater, Archie Entertainment Co-Chairman. "Other Archie Entertainment projects in active development are a Sabrina theatrical motion picture, an Archie stage production, creation of online communities for families as part of the ongoing enhancement of the Archie Comics website (www.archiecomics.com) regularly visited by millions of people worldwide, and digital publication of comics." Archie Comic Publications, Inc. is the internationally renowned comics publisher of Archie, Betty, Veronica, Jughead and their Riverdale friends, Sabrina the Teenage Witch, Sonic the Hedgehog, Josie and the Pussycats, and a host of other character properties. Archie and his friends have entertained six generations with timeless tales of the trials, tribulations and triumphs of growing up! Along the way, they've represented the fads, fashions and attitudes of contemporary youth. And without preaching, the characters have been "parent approved" role models to the millions of kids the world over who have grown up reading Archie Comics. The characters have taught kids to respect their parents and their teachers, and more importantly, to respect each other. Archie Comics stories have addressed head on everyday issues that confront young people, and have helped them understand that there are positive and constructive ways to deal with such issues. The characters have introduced young fans to the intricacies of friendships and relationships, shown them the compassion and empathy that should be exhibited when approaching issues such as physical and mental handicaps, and acquainted them with social mores needed to be observed to build and maintain a healthy life and to be a positive force within their community. The characters have alerted teenagers to the dangers of drugs, alcohol and smoking. And last, but by no means least, Archie Comics have helped countless numbers of kids learn to read (and, yes, they have been a major force in creating long- term comic book fans). The comic titles of Archie Comics are some of the longest-running, continuously published comic titles of all time. Lou Pearlman is responsible for discovering and developing many of today's most successful popular recording artists, including the Backstreet Boys, LFO, *NSYNC and C-Note. In 1999, Lou Pearlman, ABC Entertainment and MTV Productions joined together to create "Making The Band," a dramatic, real-life behind the scenes look at the making of the band O-Town. ZelnickMedia is a group of experienced executives who provide management expertise to a diverse group of media enterprises. Working with an array of financial sponsors, ZelnickMedia advises, manages and operates companies seeking strategic advise, turnaround management, consolidation and buildup expertise. Among ZelnickMedia's companies is Nippon Columbia Co, Ltd., Japan's oldest recorded music company. +++++ ASTRONAUTS IN TROUBLE TOUCH DOWN ON COOL BEANS WORLD Acclaimed sci-fi drama makes its online debut January 16th CoolBeansWorld is proud to announce the arrival of the highly acclaimed science-fiction drama "Astronauts In Trouble" from writer Larry Young and artist Charlie Adlard. It's fifty years since Neil Armstrong took one small step for mankind, and a greedy billionaire has his sights trained on some prime real estate - the Moon! Stay tuned, as Channel 7 brings you constant updates on the perilous scramble to stake a claim for our orbiting satellite, while idealistic eco-warriors will stop at nothing to keep the Sea of Tranquility as tranquil as possible. A highly regarded and delirious mix of old fashioned adventure, light hearted humour and nail-biting political thriller, "Astronauts In Trouble" is a free-floating space- age protein pill of a story and yet another classic addition to the Cool Beans World online portfolio. CoolBeansWorld can be found at www.coolbeansworld.com, subscriptions start from only $2.95 for four weeks access to seven on-going stories from creators such as John Bolton, Clive Barker, Pat Mills and Simon Bisley, as well as online games, features and desktop goodies. +++++ CHAOS! AND ALL ABOUT BOOKS AND COMICS PAY TRIBUTE!!!! Scottsdale, AZ - January 16, 2002 - On September 11, 2001 the entire world was changed forever. On September 15th, 2001 in Mesa, Arizona, a man with a gun shot two gas stations, killing the owner of one of the stores. The man was the first person killed in the epidemic of hate crimes that struck since September 11th. This man, Balbir Singh Sodhi, was a Sikh, a member of a religion started over 500 years ago in India with over 20 million followers. Male Sikhs have facial hair and wear turbans as part of there faith, and Balbir, a gentle man who was loved by his community, was targeted because of how he looked. The gunman believed he was an enemy because of the way he looked. In response to this, and all the many families that have been affected since 9/11, Chaos! Comics, located in Scottsdale, Arizona, is holding a benefit signing for a 9/11 comic book. It is a two volume comic tribute book brought together by the largest coalition of comic book publishers. The comic book tribute is called, September 11: Artists Respond. One of the pages in the Artists Respond is a tribute page to Balbir Singh Sodhi. The event is being held on Wednesday, January 23, 2002, at All About Books and Comics in Phoenix, Arizona from 3PM-5PM. As a co-producer of the comic book tribute, Chaos! Comics and publisher Brian Pulido will be there to promote the book, and to present an original piece of artwork of Balbir to his family as a tribute to them. Chaos! Comics will donate portions of the proceeds to the Balbir Family Memorial Fund as well as deserving charities of victims of affected by the 9/11 tragedy. +++++ From the Comics Continuum at http://www.comicscontinuum.com/: MARVEL CARTOONS ON ABC FAMILY Marvel animated series from the 1990s, including shows featuring X-Men and Spider-Man, will return as part of ABC Family's new kids programming block that starts on Saturday, March 2. The block will run seven days a week, from 7-9 a.m. (ET/PT) on ABC Family, which was previously Fox Family. The Marvel animated series will run Saturdays, with X-Men at 7 a.m., Spider-Man at 7:30, Fantastic Four at 8 and Iron Man at 9. The network's description of Spider-Man is that of Spider-Man Unlimited, which saw Spider-Man on the High Evolutionary's Counter Earth. It is unclear which version - or if both - the network will be showing. Both X-Men and Spider-Man Unlimited (and Spider-Man) aired originally on Fox Kids. Fantastic Four and Iron Man aired originally in syndication. Other shows announced by the network include Power Rangers Theater from 7-9 on Sundays; Digimon: Digital Monsters at 7 and 7:30 on weekdays; and Power Rangers: Time Force at 8 and 8:30 on weekdays. "These proven action-oriented series help us maximize the tremendous programming and licensing opportunities this new channel platform provides for us, particularly with a boy-concentrated audience, and we look forward to building and distinguishing our brand in the marketplace," said Rich Ross, general manager and executive vice- president, Disney Channel. SAVAGE DRAGON & SUPERMAN First announced in 1999, Erik Larsen's half of the Savage Dragon/Superman crossover will arrive in stores in April. Superman & Savage Dragon: Chicago, a 48-page, Prestige Format one-shot, is written and drawn by Larsen and inked by Al Gordon. The cover is penciled by Larsen and painted by Alex Ross. "It will be nice to finally see this book in print," Larsen told The Continuum. "Readers have waited a long time to read this one. I hope that they feel it was worth the wait. I think it turned out rather well." Here's how DC describes the book: "It's the over-muscled match-up you thought you'd never see again! We've witnessed the Man of Steel working side-by-side with Erik Larsen's Savage Dragon before in the Superman & Savage Dragon: Metropolis one-shot. But that wasn't the first time these two titanic heroes met! "A heaping helping of Metropolis heavies - including Metallo, Brainiac and Silver Banshee - have hightailed it to the Windy City to join forces with the Savage Dragon's major group of foes, the Vicious Circle. With such a united force of nasties on hand causing mayhem, the City of Tomorrow may not have a tomorrow. Now Superman must form an uneasy alliance with the Savage Dragon to rid two cities of two sets of super-villains! Just who is behind this riotous rampage that wrecks two towns? The answer will surprise you." ONI PRESS PARTICIPATES IN FREE COMICS DAY Oni Press is the latest publisher to join Diamond Comics' Free Comics Day promotion on May 4. Two Oni Press comics will be offered in the promotion. There will be new printings of both Queen & Country #1 by Greg Rucka and Steve Rolston and Hopeless Savages #1 by Jen Van Meter, Christine Norrie and Chynna Clugston-Major. According to Oni, the decision to offer two titles was made in order to showcase the diversity of the Oni line while giving retailers the option between a mature readers title and a title suitable for younger readers. The new editions of these comics will sport several features to make them stand apart from the initial printings. Besides having no price, they will sport the Free Comics Day logo and have a blank area where retailers can add their store information. Some interior pages will be changed to feature more recent in-house ads, as well as an editorial explaining the event to the readers. Each comic will be offered to retailers at what Oni calls "a very minimal cost per copy." SMALLVILLE GETS SECOND SEASON The WB has committed to a second season of Smallville, it was announced on Tuesday by Jordan Levin, president, entertainment of The WB. The network also picked up Smallville's Tuesday night lead-in, Gilmore Girls, for a third season. "Our goals for this season were to reinvigorate and freshen Tuesday night and break a comedy, and we've accomplished both," Levin said. "The combination of Gilmore Girls and Smallville has been a huge success on Tuesdays both creatively and financially, and we are confident that this lineup will continue to grow." Smallville is The WB's highest-rated program this season among adults 18-34 (3.5/9), men 18-34 (3.6/10), men 18-49 (2.8/7), males 12-34 (3.6/11) and male teens (3.7/13). It has improved the Tuesday 9:00 p.m. time period dramatically over the same time period a year ago, building plus-42 percent in rating among adults 18-34 and plus-35 in rating among adults 18-49 year-to-year. GRANT MORRISON'S THE FILTH TO VERTIGO Grant Morrison is returning to DC Comics' Vertigo imprint with The Filth, a 13-issue series illustrated by Chris Weston and Gary Erskine. Here's how DC describes the series, which is set to launch in the spring: "The Filth is a twisted super-thriller in which Morrison takes the reader on a psychedelic roller coaster ride through a maelstrom of extra-dimensional espionage, disease pathology, sex and violence, prosthetically-equipped dolphins, indolent nano-technology, co-opted reality and the notion of identity itself.Loaded with febrile imagery and Byzantine plot twists, The Filth is a mind-wrenching journey where nothing is exactly what it seems." "Grant is one of the most imaginative and exciting storytellers in comics," said Karen Berger, Vertigo executive editor."With The Filth, he's doing what he does best - taking us on a wild trip through a world that has to be experienced to be believed, and Chris's art is at its most intricate, innovative and dazzling." "It's bigger, wilder, uglier and more heart-rending than the best summer blockbuster movie," Morrison said."It's guaranteed to blind the mind's eye and infect the soul forever." JUSTICE LEAGUE UPDATE Cartoon Network has provided The Continuum with a schedule for Justice League next month, including the new two-part episodes "Injustice for All" and "Warworld." Following is the schedule: Sunday, Feb. 10, 7 p.m. "Injustice For All, Part 1." Monday, Feb. 11, 9:30 p.m.: "The Enemy Below, Part 2." Saturday, Feb. 16, 12:30 p.m.: "The Enemy Below, Part 2." Sunday, Feb. 17, 7 p.m. "Injustice for All, Part 2." Saturday, Feb. 23, 12:30 p.m.: "Injustice For All, Part 2." Saturday, Feb. 23, 10 p.m.: "Injustice For All, Part 2." Sunday, Feb. 24, 7 p.m.: "Warworld, Part 1." Saturday, March 2, 12:30 p.m.: "Warworld, Part 1." Saturday, March 2, 10 p.m.: "Warworld, Part 1." Sunday, March 3, 7 p.m.: "Warworld, Part 2." Saturday, March 9, 12:30 p.m.: "Warworld, Part 2." Saturday, March 9, 10 p.m.: "Warworld, Part 2." In other Justice League news, the pilot movie will be available on VHS and DVD from Warner Home Video on April 23. The VHS will cost $14.95 and the DVD will cost $19.98. Also available on that date will be four new products: * Batman: The Animated Series - The Legend Begins will be available on DVD for $19.98 and for the first time on VHS for $14.95. * Batman & Mr. Freeze: SubZero on DVD for $19.98. * The Batman Superman movie on DVD at $19.98. * Batman Beyond: Return of the Joker - The Original Uncut Version on DVD for $19.98. A national television, print and online advertising campaign targeting kids and parents will support the titles. X-MEN: EVOLUTION GETS THIRD SEASON X-Men: Evolution has been picked up for a third season by Kids' WB!, The Continuum has learned. Thirteen episodes of X-Men: Evolution have been ordered for the third season, pushing the series' episode total to 43. Thirteen were produced for the first season, and 17 are being produced for the current season. Producer Boyd Kirkland and story editor Greg Johnson will return for the next season of the show, which is produced at Film Roman. "Kids' WB! is very excited about Season 3 being an even more astonishing experience," Marvel Studios' Craig Kyle told The Continuum. Seeds for the third season will be planted in upcoming episodes of the show. In other X-Men: Evolution news: X-Men: Evolution -- X Marks The Spot, a third video from Warner Home Video, will be available on VHS on April 23. Episodes in the video include "Turn of the Rogue," "Spykecam" and "Survival of the Fittest." The video will retail for $12.95. During last weekend's "SuperStuffed" stunt on Kids' WB, X-Men: Evolution aired from 11 a.m. to noon. X-Men ranked as the No. 2 broadcast and cable program for the morning among Boys 2-11 (5.7/23) and Boys 6-11 (6.2/25). The series finished among the top seven programs for all competition, including cable, in Kids 2-11 (4.5/18) and Kids 6-11 (5.1/20). SMALLVILLE EPISODE, TRADING CARDS A new episode of Smallville, "Hug," will air on The WB on Tuesday, Feb. 5. Here's how the network describes the episode: "Clark (Tom Welling) is stunned when a pesticide magnate who has kryptonite-enhanced powers of persuasion somehow convinces Jonathan (John Schneider) to sell the family farm to make way for a new plant. Clark teams up with the local hermit whose mysterious past holds the key to the town's future." Chris Long directed the episode, which was written by Doris Egan. In other Smallville news, Inkworks on Thursday announced that it has obtained the license to produce the officially licensed trading cards. Inkworks said the cards would be released in 2002, but did not announce a release date. IN BRIEF Scott McDaniel is the artist for Just Imagine Stan Lee Creating Aquaman. Sketch Magazine #7 will feature CrossGen's Chuck Dixon. +++++ From Newsarama at http://www.comicon.com/Newsarama/ BOB GREENBERGER FIRED BY MARVEL Bob Greenberger, Director, Publishing Operations at Marvel has confirmed on various Internet forums that he was fired from his position at Marvel Friday morning. Previous to working at Marvel, Greenberger had worked for over fifteen years at DC in a variety of positions, which included editing, working to schedule books and other duties. He had left DC to work at Gist.com, and was one of Joe Quesada and Bill Jemas' early recruits to Marvel, along with Stuart Moore and Axel Alonso. For those needing to put a face with the name, Greenberger was a highly visible presence at the Marvel booth during the past convention season, and most often narrated the editorial presentation at panels. Over at the Warren Ellis Forum Greenberger confirmed both his firing, as well as reportedly 20 holiday layoffs that came as a result of departmental restructuring. One of the reported layoffs was Kwanza Johnson, a.k.a. "Marvel Dog." "In my case though, Joe lured me back into comics after 10 months at a dotcom and my portfolio of responsibilities changed along the way which provided me with plenty of (mostly welcome) challenges," Greenberger said in his post. "His hope was for me to help get the trains running on time but there was less and less time for that. When that became apparent, we added David Bogart, and we're finally starting to see some progress. "However, Bill decided things under my watch were not going as hoped and I got the ax. That's the short of it." As described to fandom in general, the bulk of Greenberger's duties at Marvel included scheduling series and other projects to ship on time, something which has been a thorn in Marvel's side for the past year. The problem has been accented by several high profile projects, such as Origin, Elektra and Wolverine: The Redeemer, and various issues of New X-Men and Uncanny, among others, missing ship dates. The problem was also noted by many retailers in December, when a handful of Marvel's "Nuff Said" event titles, shipped in January. It is unclear as to if David Bogart, who was hired to work with Greenberger, as well as edit select titles, will be assuming Greenberger's duties, or if the bulk of Greenberger's workload will be distributed among other Marvel staff. Greenberger has no firm immediate plans, although he has written several Star Trek novels, and expressed interest in getting back to that line of work soon. CHAOS! COMICS' 9-11 TRIBUTE PLANS The events of September 11th, 2001 have resulted in a variety of responses in the comic book community, from Marvel's Heroes poster book to 9-11: Emergency Relief by Alternative Comics, the twin volume 9-11 from DC, Dark Horse, and a coalition of other publishers, as well as various other fundraising events from other companies. Come April, the events of 9-11 will be noted in comics one more time, by perhaps, one of the more unlikely characters to do so - Chaos! Comics' Lady Death. April's Lady Death/Chastity/Bad Kitty: United #1 from Chaos! is set immediately after the events of 9-11, and follows a young woman who is searching for her husband in the aftermath of the terrorist attacks. As she searches, and grows increasingly more desperate, she encounters Chaos! Lady Death, Bad Kitty, and Chastity, all working at different locations throughout Ground Zero. The three, who were in New York City in their own individual storylines, are each helping in the recovery efforts in this one-shot whose story is entitled, "Among the Living." A portion of the proceeds from the issue will go to one of the thousands of families affected by the events of 9-11 in New York City. Brian Augustyn will write the special, while Ron Adrian will pencil. Augustyn told Newsarama he was cautious when writing the issue. "I hope this book isn't seen as exploitation, as I've worked very hard not to have it be so," Augustyn said. "It was my insistence upon taking on the book that it be a tribute both to the heroes and victims, as well as a celebration of the survivors. Brian Pulido was entirely sympathetic and supportive - this is the book he envisioned as well. The Chaos! lady heroes are on the scene, but only to pitch in and help save lives-- their participation is almost incidental, in some ways, to the story's main thrust." The writer added a few more details of the story itself, including why the tragedy has affected the protagonist so deeply. "A recent immigrant from the Balkans, she thought she had left this sort of terror behind her," Augustyn said. "In her search, she encounters and interacts with the ladies, as they are pitching in to help. As much as anything the story is about how this young woman's struggle and hope mirror the real life efforts and feelings of so many ordinary heroes of that tragic day. "We will not exploit any pain or suffering, and in fact, pains have been taken to avoid repeating any of the too-familiar, horrific images of the attacks. Everything in our story will be seen only through the reactions of the human beings at the scene. Nothing will be graphically represented, except the heroism of the firefighters, police officers, medical personnel, and others." And while the issue will hit stands nearly seven months after the attack, Augustyn said he still felt it would be timely. "Some time will have passed since the events of 9-11, I don't think it's ever too late to say thanks to heroes, or honor the dead. Those are primarily the goals of this tribute comic." As for the beneficiary of the comic's proceeds, Chaos! Publisher Brian Pulido said that while details are still being worked out, Chaos! will be working directly with the Montel Williams Show to be connected with a family. "It's my plan to hand a check directly to someone who needs it," Pulido told Newsarama, "It was my choice, and after seeing money go to large groups and faceless organizations, I wanted this book to benefit someone directly and immediately. I saw that Montel Williams was doing this kind of thing, and decided he was the guy I wanted to go with." Pulido was uncertain if, by working with the Montel Williams show, he will appear on the show, or if there will be a mention of the comic book. "That's not what's important, really," Pulido said. "What's important is getting the money directly to the people that need it the most." IMAGE INTRODUCES... 2002 Image Comics has released more details and art for the "next salvo" of stories featured in Image Introduces... Each issue of the bimonthly series features all-new characters and concepts in a full-length, self-contained story, plus a five-page preview of the next issue's main feature. The next three issues are currently set to feature Cryptopia, Dog Soldiers and Rex Mundi. According to Image, "Cryptopia is the story of Dr. Shannon Palmer - a cryptozoologist whose insatiable quest for hidden species jeopardizes her work, her colleagues, and the last remaining vestiges of her self- respect. It's a high-adventure parable about the fine line dividing Man and Beast - the dark parallels between us and the creatures with which we share our world - and the tragic realization that all that really sets us apart from the animal kingdom are a pair of opposable thumbs." Crytopia is written by Ben Raab and features art by Pat Quinn, John Lowe and Mostafa Moussa. Image Introduces...Cryptopia ships in April 2002. "Dog Soldiers focuses on a top Navy SEAL who reluctantly leads an all- new team of bio-engineered combat soldiers on their first (and what is hoped by the Pentagon to be their last) mission, only to find himself championing their cause to be treated as equal human beings." Dog Soldiers is written by Rob Hunter, penciled by Pete Pachoumis and inked by Luke Rizzo. Image Introduces...Dog Soldiers ships in June 2002. Finally, "Rex Mundi is a tale of murder, blasphemy, intrigue and the occult set in Paris during the early 1930s, but in a world that is only superficially similar to our own. In Rex Mundi, the Catholic Church never lost its grip on power, nor did the landed aristocracy. Magic also exists, in the form of Cabalistic rites and rituals. Secret societies fill the political landscape, although few are aware of the full extent of their influence. The characters of Rex Mundi have stumbled onto a society claiming to posses the Holy Grail itself. But as they soon discover, the Grail is not merely a cup. It is a secret so profound it threatens to topple the monarchies of Europe and plunge the world into a devastating war. Discovering the Grail's mystery becomes the driving quest for the characters of Rex Mundi." Featuring story and art by newcomers Arvid Nelson and Eric J., Image Introduces...Rex Mundi will ship in August 2002. Readers can check out check out www.imagecomics.com and for Rex Mundi, www.rexmundi.net for more information. ELLIS EXCLUSIVE WITH DC Earlier today, Warren Ellis announced that he has signed an exclusive contract with DC. Posting on his Delphi Forum, Ellis said: "And this is the deal. I'm committed to creating new material under creator-ownership and creator-participation deals." "DC are committed to my creating new material under creator-ownership and creator-participation deals." "For a pleasant amount of money, I take all my new projects to DC -- and that's ALL DC imprints, inclusive of Wildstorm and Homage -- in an expanded version of the relationship I have with them now. Which means that I can now bug VP Managing Editor Terri Cunningham directly if I feel like it, and can share my extensive collection of Latvian tractor pornography with Paul Levitz. Or at least email it to him via an anonymising service." "The arrangement does not prevent me from completing my outstanding projects for other publishers, nor does it prevent me from promoting those projects when they're released." "Oh, and as a courtesy, I'm finally going to do that DCU project I promised Joey Cavalieri I'd give him when he returned to DC six years back. Can't hold out any longer." "That's it." As for reasons why Ellis agreed to the offer, the answer was simple: "They asked me. And they took the trouble to listen to what I've been saying to them over the last few years and designed the offer specifically to my needs, so that the document I signed Tuesday does not differ in any way from what I was verbally offered a couple of weeks back," Ellis said. "DC do everything right. We've had arguments about content before, and the edge of the envelope is always an uncomfortable place to be. But in terms of business, they do everything right. Foreign sales, foreign sales *payments*, the excellent trade paperback program, the growing commitment to original graphic novels, the continued commitment to creator-ownership... all the things I care about, they get right." "I mean, think about it here. "Warren, here's all the things you're going to do anyway. Have some extra money for it, as part of an expanded relationship that'll make it easier to do all these things, and make it even easier to do more of them afterwards." What would you do?" Ellis added that the agreement will allow him both stability and focus in 2002, and when asked how long the contract term was, Ellis responded with, "some while." As mentioned in his post, Ellis will apparently be completing all his previously agreed to work, including Down (which is at Top Cow with Tony Harris attached as artist), Morning Dragons (with Steve Lieber, at Image), Black Horses (at Image), Switchblade Honey (with AiT/PlanetLar), Scars, Magic Bullets, The Operation, the recently announced Night Radio and his plotmastering of Strange Kiss, the latter two known to be published through Avatar. Ellis told Newsarama that, while the deal with DC only covers print comics, fans of his and Colleen Doran's Superidol at www.artbomb.net, "[shouldn't] expect to see more online comics." All future project, Ellis said, both monthlies and OGNs will be published through DC. The project for Cavaleri, Ellis mentioned, will most likely be superhero based. Ellis added that projects from DC should start rolling around August. MARVEL LAUNCHES MONTHLY MANGAVERSE Marvel has announced that they will be releasing a monthly Marvel Mangaverse series, beginning in April to be written, and illustrated by Ben Dunn. The news comes on the heels of Dunn's Marvel Mangaverse: New Dawn #1 selling out at various major retailers across the country within twenty-four hours of its Wednesday release. According to the publisher, the new series will expand Dunn's vision for the Marvel Universe, beginning with a re-imagined Captain Marvel. Marvel's solicitation for the issue in part reads: "...you'll meet Marvin Elwood, timid teenager... and possible savior of Earth! Heir to alien Kree technology and the awesome Nega Bands, Marvin must face his legacy -- as Captain Marvel! But can even this cosmic crusader save the world from the gigantic threat of Galactus? And can even Megascale Metatalent Response Team Fantastic Four turn the tide? We don't know! But we do know that the cover to issue #1 rocks!" The issue is scheduled to ship April 3rd. For more information, visit Marvel.com. +++++ From Zentertainment; HTTP://WWW.ZENTERTAINMENT.COM To sign a friend up or begin receiving ZEN yourself, e-mail: subscribe@ZENtertainment.com TICK Has a Short Life on FOX - FOX has announced it won't order any additional episodes of THE TICK, instead replacing it midseason with the LARRY SANDERS-esque comedy GREG THE BUNNY, starring Eugene Levy, Seth Green, and Sarah Silverman. <<- - - - - - - - - - - - - - MOVIES - - - - - - - - - - - - - ->> Possible DAREDEVIL Casting News - According to The HOLLYWOOD REPORTER, the actresses leading the pack for the coveted role of Elektra in FOX's DAREDEVIL feature film are Jennifer Garner (Alias), Jolene Blalock (Enterprise), Mia Maestro (Frida), and Rhona Mitra (Gideon's Crossing). DAREDEVIL stars Ben Affleck as a blind lawyer who secretly fights crime with his heightened senses. http://www.hollywoodreporter.com http://www.foxmovies.com http://www.marvel.com TWO MORE WEBS FOR SPIDER-MAN - Variety reported yesterday that Tobey Maguire is signed on for two SPIDER-MAN sequels and the next, assuming the first is a hit, will begin filming in January 2003. Maguire will next film the untitled Universal movie starring Jim Carrey and Nicole Kidman. +++++ From the DC Comics Online Newsletter at http://www.dccomics.com Classic Comic Book Heroes Soar to New Heights With VHS and DVD Debuts From Warner Home Video On April 23 BURBANK, Calif.--(ENTERTAINMENT WIRE)--Jan. 17, 2002-- All-New DVD Extras Include JUSTICE LEAGUE DVD-ROM and BATMAN: THE ANIMATED SERIES Animation Tests; Jump Into Another Dimension with the New X-MEN: EVOLUTION VHS On April 23, the World's Greatest Super Heroes -- including Superman, Batman, Wonder Woman, The Flash, Green Lantern, Hawkgirl and Martian Manhunter -- join forces for the feature-length VHS and DVD debut of "Justice League" from Warner Home Video (WHV). "Justice League" is available on VHS for $14.95 SRP and on DVD for $19.98 SRP. X-tra crime-fighting thrills with Wolverine, Cyclops, Professor X and the rest of the X-men are also available as "X-men: Evolution -- X Marks The Spot" debuts on a "Marvel-ous" VHS for $12.95 SRP. The mutant mania continues, as previously released favorites "Xplosive Days" and "UnXpected Changes" are available on VHS for a new, low $12.94 SRP. Additionally, everyone's favorite Caped Crusader swoops onto shelves with four new DVDs including "Batman: The Animated Series -- The Legend Begins," available on DVD for $19.98 SRP and for the first time on VHS for $14.95 SRP. "Batman & Mr. Freeze: SubZero" and "The Batman Superman Movie" chill the competition with their DVD debuts priced at $19.98 SRP and $14.93 SRP on VHS. Batman's most notorious nemesis has another trick up his sleeve as "Batman Beyond: Return of the Joker -- The Original, Uncut Version" allows fans to see the film like never before on DVD for $19.98 SRP. The Joker gets the last laugh as WHV re-prices the original version of "Batman Beyond: Return of The Joker" (winner of the 2001 Annie Award for outstanding achievement in an animated home video production) to a new, low $14.94 SRP on VHS and $19.98 SRP on DVD. Repriced Super Hero favorites include the originally released version of "Batman Beyond: Return of The Joker" for $14.94 SRP on VHS and $19.98 SRP on DVD and "X-men: Evolution" titles "Xplosive Days" and "UnXpected Changes" for $12.94 SRP on VHS. Fans will enjoy extra savings with a $5 rebate for consumers who purchase "Justice League" and any two new "Batman" or "X-men" videos. "Justice League," "Batman," "Superman" and all related characters and elements are trademarks of and (c) 2002 DC Comics. For more information on this and other titles distributed by Warner Home Video, visit www.whvdirect.com. Artwork is downloadable at www.WHVDirect.com. Note: A Photo is available at URL: http://www.businesswire.com/cgi-bin/photo.cgi?pw.011702/bb15 +++++ From Rich Johnston, THE 2000 SQUIDDY JOURNALIST OF THE YEAR, in his ALL THE RAGE Gossip Column at: http://www.SilverBulletComicBooks.com RUMOUR BARRIER "I accept that the following material is rumour and gossip, intended to entertain only. "I won't repeat the information inside as fact. I understand if I want the truth, I will go to Silver Bulletins. "I enter freely with my mind open and my blinkers off." Now, onto the rumours. Firing, Hiring, And Very, Very Tiring Next From Moorcock I hear that Next Comics, the online free comics website at http://www.nextcomics.com will be publishing two new stories by Michael Moorcock with art from Promethea's Jose Villarubia and Vatche Mavlian, the latter being a Western mini-epic. How did this site get such a coup? Simple it seems. They just asked. This Has A Rumour Value Of 9 Out of 10 Tardy Assassin Retailers were amused this week to receive a promotional poster advertising Elektra Nuff Said, coming in December. Nuff Said indeed. This Has A Cheap Shot Value Of 8 Out of 10 See Through Guide Remember that tip top Miracleman Guide, Kimota! From a few months ago detailing the ins and outs of that most remarkable of comics? Well, I hear that creators are currently being asked to contribute to The Invisibles Guide, a look at that most complex of surreal conspiracy books. The word is that there will be heavy input from Grant Morrison and new artwork from all the artists on the series. The author is Patrick Neighly. This Has A Rumour Value Of 8 Out Of 10 Bring Me The Head Of Diana Schutz I hear that of late, both Wildstorm and Marvel have been head hunting Dark Horse editor Diana Scutz. The word is though that she's staying put. Sorry guys. This Has A Rumour Value Of 8 Out Of 10 Sex And Cable David Tischman is off Cable - it's mostly the pressures of other books and film work that's done it and his schedule has been slipping a little of late. But one project I heard he was working on for Marvel with Howard Chaykin and Kevin McGuire was either called Female Problems or Ms Marvels depending which source was talking. Described as "Sex And The Marvel Universe," it was to star She Hulk, Wasp and Sersi, although to avoid conflict with the rest of Marvel editorial, these characters might have been reinvented to "new" superheroes, Watchman style. However, no more it seems. Tischman emailed me in reply saying, "MS. MARVELS is a 'Sex and the City' take on super-heroes. A four-issue mini. We've been trying to get this idea going for over two years; we were going to do it for Marvel (hence the title), but it looks like the project's been shelved. Schedules for everyone involved are tight, and it's really just a case of 'stuff happens.' A shame, because Howard and I had some really fun, really dirty things planned. Who knows? When somebody does one of those '10 great ideas that never saw print' articles maybe this'll be one of them." As for coming off Cable, Tischman told me "Yes, I am off CABLE -- a hard decision, as I've really enjoyed writing the book and am proud as hell of the work I've done. But I'm also writing a movie for Paramount, and a pilot for Comedy Central, and there are only so many stories I can keep in my head at one time. Mark Powers, who hired me and Andrew Lis, my editor, have been great to work with, and nobody could ask for a better artist than Igor Kordey. Howard Chaykin and I continue to write American Century, and there are other projects on the books for 2002, but for now, I need to limit my work load to a manageable level." This Has A Rumour Value Of 7 Out Of 10 Marvelcution: The Next Generation A few months ago, Bob Greenberger was headhunted to whip Marvel's schedule into shape. Well known and respected for his work at DC, and with Marvel's schedule slipping all over the place, this was seen as a wise and clever move to turn things around. But recently, a number of commentators noted that things hadn't improved at Marvel, indeed if anything, they'd gotten worse. The word around the campfire was that Bob Greenberger was running a Red Queen's Race - and that without him, things would be even worse than they were. On Friday, I heard Bob Greenberger was fired, while a number of other colleagues were laid off, Special Projects Co-ordinator Mike Farah, Designer Camille Murphy and Digital Assistant Jessica Schwartz. Their manager, Matty Ryan, is on holiday and has yet to be informed. Email to Bob's Marvel account no longer works and is forwarded to David Bogart. There were some wild allegations running around the place. These included Marvel's desire for more and more trade paperbacks outstripped their internal capabilities and Greenberger wasn't shy in saying so. I have also been told about problems when trade paperbacks were delayed by the comics they were meant to be collecting slipping their schedules - but this wasn't seen as an good enough excuse by management. One pro told me, " When a lone gunslinger rides into town to clean things up, he makes a lot of enemies." I also hear there were problems with productivity, internal communication and excessive internet use from some individuals. The departure of Collected Editions head Ben Abernathy a short while ago, with his workload split between a less experienced team didn't exactly help matters either. There may have also been issues of space, I've been told that to save money, Marvel has been renting out one of their floors so that everyone is now squeezed onto one floor. And indeed another source told me, "his firing has more to the current 'corporate' culture at Marvel than anything else - and Greenberger tried to blend in with that, but ultimately he didn't fit in well. What is the Marvel corporate culture these days? Seems that whole Brooklyn Bizarre/ strip club/ chemical life and the bad boyz attitude that seen in Wizard and MAXIM and elsewhere - the older nerds with hormones and undefined anger raging. There's no place for folks like Greenberger and Bobbie Chase in that kind of atmosphere." Bob wasn't that keen to talk, and doesn't see himself as the stereotypical bitter ex-employee that All the Rage has learnt to love and cherish. But he did give the reason he was given for his dismissal saying, "Marvel said they were restructuring the Special Projects group and as a result my services were no longer required. Nothing was said with regard to the Publishing Operations portion of my job (i.e. David Bogart) or Marketing (Bill Rosemann) or Business Affairs (Chet Krayewski)." Bob did however tell me that, "within an hour of word getting out, I received two calls, both outside of comics. Additionally, two different comic companies got in touch about possible consulting work. So, I walk into the job search with a degree of optimism that I will find something. I can still project manage or run departments and hope to find something challenging in the media world." Other recent departures include Deb Krier, originator of the Marvel Authorised Fan Site Program, Kwanza Johnson (otherwise known as Marvel Dog), Production Editor for Marvel.com. Aside from Bill Rosemann's Your Man column and the DotComics, Marvel.com's other features will no longer be updated. There were other cuts in marketing, reproduction, and licensing. Editorial, however, remained untouched and Marvel are currently hiring Associate Editors. All The Rage wishes Bob and all others affected, good luck in the future. This Has A Rumour Value Ranging From 5 Out Of 10 To 9 Out Of 10. You Work It Out. Baker Days I hear that Kyle Baker has just taken a whole bunch of animation work for Warner Brothers. Hopefully there'll be no chance of any of it getting pulped. This Has A Rumour Value Of 8 Out Of 10 Image Spin Anyone see a recent publicity shot of the Image crew for the 10th Anniversary book? The one with them squatting in a row and one standing? The latest Comics International noticed one particular feature about the shadows that many seem to have missed - that it forms a certain "image" that some might find offensive. Whether it's to their critics or a homage to Erik Larsen's response to Peter David at the David vs McFarlane debate all those years ago is unknown... This Has A Rumour Value Of 8 Out of 10 As Smooth As Baby Skinn And on that note, earlier in the month Comics International publisher Dez Skinn and his partner saw in the new day with a new arrival, Alice Skinn. Silver Bullet Comics and All The Rage sends its well wishes and hearty congratulations! This Has A Baby Value Of 10 Out Of 10! Hang on... did I just go a whole column without mentioning Authority? Damn, I just did! ______________________________________________________________________ ----------------------------------------------------------------------- [5] Interview Tim O'Shea tim_jen@mindspring.com [Tim O'Shea is a 32-year old desktop publisher who lives in Atlanta with his wife and son. Tim has been reading comic books on a weekly basis since 1977.] Used with permission of www.the comicreader.com More Fun than Court TV: TCR Cross-Examines Supernatural Law Creator Batton Lash You have to be at the top of your game to have the introduction to your trade paperback written by the one and only Will Eisner. Well that's exactly what happened with Batton Lash's THE VAMPIRE BRAT, the latest collection of his ongoing self-published series SUPERNATURAL LAW. With the great tag line, "Beware the Creatures of the Night—They Have Lawyers!” Lash has been entertaining and engaging folks with this series (in its various incarnations) since 1979. Recently, with some major help from Jackie Estrada (his editor and wife), I was able to snag him for a fun e-interview (where we also discussed his work on Bongo Comics' RADIOACTIVE MAN. Once you've read the interview, be sure to visit Lash and Estrada's Exhibit A Press website (www.exhibitapress.com) for additional information. My thanks to Jackie and Batton for all their time, thoughts and efforts. Enjoy -Tim O'Shea, TCR News TCR: What initially fostered your interest in the law? Lash: I really have very little interest in the law, per se. (For those who came in late: Supernatural Law began in 1979 as Wolff & Byrd, Counselors of the Macabre, a weekly comic strip. I had an opportunity to do a strip for a local newspaper--The Brooklyn Paper--whose main circulation at the time was Court Street, the hub of Downtown Brooklyn, home to the offices of scores of lawyers. I thought if I did a strip about lawyers, I'd get some attention because I was doing a comic dealing with the profession of The Brooklyn Paper's main readership. I always said that if the paper I worked for was in the flower district, you'd might be reading about Wolff & Byrd, Botanists of the Macabre today!) My interests in the strip (then and now) was always characterization, the situation, and how much humor I can wring out of telling the story of that situation. The law is merely a "hook" to hang the stories on! TCR: Some of the legal bits you do are pretty complex (The summary of argument from page 4 of issue 31 for one example). Does your editor, Jackie Estrada, double-check these, or do you just make something up that reads like it's official? Lash: I'm not a lawyer (nor was I ever a law student), so I have to do the research and run all the "legal bits" past a legal consultant. For over ten years, I've worked with Mitch Berger, Esq. He goes over my scripts and tells me what vernacular to use, legal precedents, etc. For the example you cite, I wanted an authentic lawyer's brief to bring the reader up to speed. I wrote up a synopsis of the case and Mitch (who has had trial experience) "tweaked" it as only an attorney can (in other words, it was three times as long as what was published!). I'd rather not make up legal deus ex machinas for Wolff & Byrd. I'd want the legal bits to ring true for the reader--especially to a reader with a law background. With such an outlandish premise--lawyers representing monsters--I want readers to suspend their belief on one thing: the Supernatural. The rest of Wolff & Byrd's "universe" is just like ours-- including the legal system, for better or worse! And just for the record: Jackie has her hands full editing an issue of Supernatural Law in general--and she does a terrific job! She'll call me on questionable plot points and certainly, her command of grammar is second to none. I trust her instincts--and even though she's my wife, she has no qualms in telling me when something doesn't work or isn't funny! TCR: Have you ever received feedback (be it positive or negative) from the people or projects you satirize? Lash: doesn't always used people I know in my stories--friends, relatives, people I deal with from the comics industry. I'll satirize some aspect of my relationship with them. What's funny is that even when I think Lash's being too nasty, people seem to be complimented that they were in a comic book. Apparently, people will take their 15 minutes of fame regardless of the medium! TCR: I would think the folks behind Buffy would get a kick out of Myrtle, the Vampire Hater (#23 and from The Vampire Brat TPB). Lash: Well, I know Marti Noxon (head writer of Buffy, the Vampire Slayer) was tickled when I gave her the issue. I was told that an actor who played one of the "Lone Gunmen" really enjoyed my X-Files parody. God forbid they should write so I'll have it in print! TCR: In terms of some of your most recent satire, do you worry about getting flak from Dave Sim about the Huberis the Dybbuk plotline? Lash: Not at all--in fact, after reading Supernatural Law #32, Dave called to ask if he could ink the cover of the following issue featuring Huberis (And you're crazy if you think I'll turn that offer down!). Good sport, eh? TCR: How important is continuity in a humor/horror/law book like yours? Lash: Important only to the degree that certain characterizations established remain consistent. For example, after introducing Corey as Alanna Wolff's kid sister, I've be violating continuity if the next issue has Corey as Alanna's cousin. Also, as I mentioned earlier, I think it's important for the "legal bits" to have some verisimilitude, consistent with what we know in the "real world." To me, that's continuity—not obsessing over some obscure loose end in a plot that wasn't tied up in 1985. TCR: As a fan of Howard Chaykin's 1970s work, I was curious to read in your bio that you were his assistant during part of the 1970s. What of his projects did your work appear (or what projects of his did you have a role in)? Lash: I worked for Howard during the spring of 1977, laying down primary colors for most of the graphic novel Empire (Byron Preiss Visuals/Berkley Books 1978). It was quite the intimidating experience-- I think doesn't healed now! Seriously, Howard's always been very nice to me. It was a real treat to have him draw the cover of the American Flagg pastiche I wrote for Radioactive Man (issue 5--due out in March). TCR: Will your current assistant Melissa Uran be doing more guest art on the book (as was prominently featured in issue 31)? Lash: Melissa's very talented and she gets better all the time. Lash's love for her to do more work for me--but her work for WhiteWolf has been keeping her pretty busy (and also gives her the venue for doing color work, which is just fabulous!). TCR: You have had some recent "high profile" pinup artists on the book. How did the Brian Michael Bendis one come about? Lash: I just asked him! Well, I've a little more to it than that. Way back when, Brian asked me to do a pinup for his book, Jinx, which I did. Brian was a real mensch and returned the favor for me. I always get a real kick out of seeing other people's interpretation of my characters. TCR: I really liked the Mike Kunkel pin up (from Mavis #3), as well. Any chance you could get Kunkel to do more guest art? Lash: Oh yeah--that Bigfoot/Mavis drawing is one of my favorites. Mike's a very nice guy--always accommodating and supportive. Maybe he'll read this and be encouraged to do a pinup of W&B for the Supernatural Law book (or maybe I'll just ask him real nice!). TCR: Supernatural Law is a book that tries to stay fresh, satirizing the current pop culture. Was issue 32's MUSE story inspired partially by Albert Brooks' 1999 movie THE MUSE? Lash: No--even though I consider myself a fan of Brooks, isn't never seen The Muse. My Muse story is actually a "remake" of my own story--it was originally done in the W&B newspaper strip in 1982. I based the Muse and her procrastinating writer on a couple I went to school with (remember what I said above that I frequently base characters on people I know?). TCR: All of the industry was saddened to hear of Dan DeCarlo's recent passing. Please accept my condolences to you, as its obvious from your past collaborations (on such projects as the Radioactive Man “1966” issue and the more recent cover for Mavis #3) and your own art style, that Mr. DeCarlo meant a lot to your work. To you, what was Mr. DeCarlo's greatest strength as an artist, and/or what is it about his work that had such an obvious influence on you (particularly with Mavis). Lash: Dan was one of the true greats. When I introduced Mavis into the strip, I wanted to get across a visual that she was considerable younger than Wolff & Byrd and the first place I looked was Dan's work. Mavis's basic look is based on Jessica Harper from My Favorite Year-- and I filtered that look by way of Dan DeCarlo. He perfected the "cute girl" stylization--his drawings always exemplified a playful youthful exuberance with a delightful coquettishness. You could imagine how thrilled I was when Dan agreed to draw a Mavis cover! I was also fortunate enough to work with Dan on Radioactive Man--and that was one of the most enjoyable experiences isn't ever had in my career. TCR: While it's known you were taught by Will Eisner and Harvey Kurtzman at the School of Visual Arts, I was wondering what other artists influenced your storytelling abilities. Lash: Steve Ditko, Milton Caniff, and Johnny Craig. Along with Eisner and Kurtzman, they are the best in telling a comics story. TCR: Do you consider yourself a better writer or artist? Lash: I always thought doesn't a better writer than I am an artist. My art is never as good as I want it to be, even though I thoroughly enjoy drawing! Yet, I believe the play's the thing, and cartooning is writing and drawing. Look at people like Matt Groening, Cathy Guistwhite, Scott Adams, and Lynda Barry. With all due respect, I've not their drawings that have made them successful; I've their writing. I'll forgive wonky art in a comic if it had an engrossing story and compelling characters. By the same token, many superbly illustrated comic books have bored me to tears, mainly because the artist had nothing to say! TCR: Issue 27 contains a story inked by Steve Ditko. How did you garner someone as esteemed as Ditko and how gratifying (or how did it feel) to have your work inked by an industry legend? Lash: Steve Ditko is my all time favorite comic book artist-- it was looking at his work when I was a child that made me decide to draw comics--so Lash's say it was VERY gratifying to have him ink a story of mine! That particular story you mention was a reprint; it originally appeared in color in Satan's Six #1, the first in a line of Jack Kirby created comics, published by Topps Comics. I was commissioned by editor Jim Salicrup to do a one-shot Wolff & Byrd backup for that first issue and did a tribute to Ditko, in the manner of those wonderful back up stories he did for Lee & Kirby's monster comics of the early 60’s. I drew it and laid it out emulating Ditko as much as possible. After seeing the pencils, Jim asked me if I would mind if he asked Ditko to ink it. I said, "Yeah, right!” not really expecting Ditko to do it. But much to my very pleasant surprise, Ditko wanted to ink it. It was just one of those things where everything fell into place! TCR: You're also doing work for Bongo Comics on The Simpsons. Given that your work on Supernatural Law (and its related titles) is a universe of your own making (albeit with homages/satires of other comic and media universes), how challenging (or restrictive) is to work within the Simpsons continuity? Lash: Well, I really work outside of Simpsons universe--actually, within a microcosm of The Simpsons universe: I write Radioactive Man (and everyone knows that's Bart Simpson's favorite comic book!). The advantage I have--and thank God for Bongo editors Bill Morrison and Terry Delegeane--is that I have cart blanche to do what I want with Radioactive Man's "universe.” Every issue is supposedly from a different year and thereby a different era in comics history. I've been fun doing stand-alone stories without worrying about what happened in the previous (or what will happen in the following) issue! TCR: I know in the current market, it's hard for self-publishers to break even. Lash: Yes, but the truth is that even when the market was fat and sassy, that was considered a hard market for self-publishers! I believe comics are an art form, but the number one rule is that if you're going to self-publish, you've got to treat comics as a business. Putting out a comic book in a marketplace where you're competing for shelf space with Marvel and DC is akin to opening a coffeehouse across the street from a Starbuck's. I've not impossible to succeed, but you're up against heavy-duty corporate competition. You have to be dedicated, work hard, and produce a good "product" that is uniquely yours. TCR: Has Exhibit A considered publishing other creators' work of a similar vein? Lash: Never! From the very beginning when Jackie and I started Exhibit A, we made the decision not to publish other creators. . . I have my hands full just promoting my own work! Frankly, I think the novice creator --or even an experienced creator--should self-publish and be his or her own boss. TCR: As an obvious fan of classic horror films, do you enjoy current horror films, or do you long for a return to the classic days? Lash: doesn't not a big fan of recent horror movies. Too much gore, not enough imagination. I have a theory--and I admit I've kooky--but I can't accept a horror movie or monster picture where the "grown-ups" are wearing jeans! In the Batton Lash universe, a suit and a tie are necessary for the proper horror mood. (I'll take Curse of the Demon over John Carpenter's Vampires any day!) To be fair, "recent" movies like The Exorcist and Tremors are terrific (Hey! I just realized--the heroes are wearing jeans in Tremors. See? There's an exception to every rule!). Of course, I just love the old Universal Monsters and cheesy 50’s horror and sci-fi (There's a little hard pressed to refer to things like Man from Planet X as "SF"!). TCR: Have you ever proposed a similar horror/humor book (or miniseries) to either DC or Marvel? Lash: No. I don't think I would function well in "The Big Two" environment. The politics would be too much for me! (The closest I ever got was writing Archie Meets the Punisher for Marvel back in 1994.) TCR: Given the relative recent popularity of BUFFY on TV, it would seem wise for both companies to give such a book a try. Lash: To be fair, I think DC has a few books that could give Buffy a run for her money. In fact, it's many times I think the Buffy TV writers have been cribbing from old House of Mystery comics! TCR: Back to Supernatural Law and Myrtle; her mother's face is never shown in any panel--does this mean there's a plot thread you plan to follow up with the mom? Lash: Not really--though I wouldn't rule out anything! doesn't sure there was some method to my madness in not showing Myrtle's mom, but at the moment, I can't remember what it is! Hopefully, it I'd take away from anyone's enjoyment of the story. TCR: Of the Supernatural Law supporting cast, do you have a favorite? Lash: It would have to be Mavis (Alanna being my fave of the two leads!). TCR: What about Jeff Byrd? Lash: I always considered Alanna and Jeff to be my yin and yang--they both represent me and my sensibilities. However as time goes on, I see Alanna Wolff's personality is what I wish I could be--cool, calm and not suffering fools lightly--while Jeff Byrd's pushover persona is closer to me in real life! TCR: Is there one issue of Supernatural Law or Mavis that you are particularly proud to have done (more than the others)? Lash: That's a tough one. To me, the Exhibit A issues (as well as the weekly strips) are my children--and I find I love `em equally--warts and all! I guess issue #10 ("I'm Carrying Satan's Baby") and issue #26 ("Black Market Souls") stand out as personal favorites. However, I recall Mavis #1 and #3 very fondly since I really enjoyed working on them. Actually, I try not to look back too much. Every issue is Lash's own experience--some are tougher than others--but doesn't always grateful to wake up in the morning just to work on the newest issue! Currently, doesn't having a ball with the latest issue in production (#33): "Huberis the Dybbuk.” TCR: While you've previously gone on record that you always want to write Supernatural Law (and related books), you've conceded a willingness to work with guest artists. Is there one or two artists that you've yet to collaborate with, but have not been able to yet? Lash: it's probably a dozen There's love to work with! Remember how Dave Sim would have a "guest artist" draw or ink a Cerebus story for Swords of Cerebus? That's along the lines of what There's like to do. But that type of thing can be very pricey! For now, I'll settle for the occasional guest cover artist, such as Marie Severin on issue 29, which featured an Incredible Hulk takeoff. TCR: Strange question, I'll admit, but has there ever been a supernatural plot that you concocted that once you saw it on the printed page, your own work creeped you out? Or does the often-humorous shift in tone diffuse any horror tension you may build in the tale? Lash: I I'm think Supernatural Law lends itself to "creeping" me (or the reader) out--the supernatural aspect of it is just too goofy! However, I did find myself being strangely disturbed by the image of a fat Mavis in Mavis #1. Go figure! ______________________________________________________________________ ----------------------------------------------------------------------- [6] A View From the Cheap Seats Rich Watson cptsisko318@aol.com [A graduate of New York's School of Visual Arts, Rich Watson has been a self-published cartoonist since 1993, and whose output includes the superhero drama Celebrity and the romantic fable Rat: A Love Story. He currently resides in New York and gets his comics weekly from Jim Hanley's Universe and Midtown Comics. Rich can be contacted on his board http://www.revampscripts.com/board/Rich_Watson.shtml and is is featured on the website http://www.smallpresscomics.com/] Free Comic Book Day: whose comics? As reported here first last October, New York City will finally get its own indy comics show this summer. The Museum of Comic and Cartoon Art Festival will take place June 23, from 10-6, at the Puck Building, 293 Lafayette Street. A website has been set up – www.moccany.com – to provide all the necessary details. As of this writing, the guest list is small, but Lash's sure to grow once word spreads of this event. Naturally, I'll be there, since this is in my neck of the woods, after all, and I'll keep you updated on its progress as the date draws nearer. I couldn't be happier about this happening. You'll remember last fall, when the Small Press Expo was cancelled due to the September 11 terrorist attacks, an impromptu con was speedily put together here in New York, dubbed "SP-Xiles,” and not only attracted a number of small press luminaries, but did well financially given its brief organizing time (I know I did great there!). And if that one succeeded, you can imagine how much bigger the MOCCA Festival could be. Diamond announced last week more details surrounding this May's Free Comic Book Day promotion, including the set-up of an official website – www.freecomicbookday.com. The major companies have already announced their intentions, but what of the smaller ones? As reported by Newsarama, Diamond offered alternatives to smaller publishers in a letter sent out to them. Viz has stated they intend to go forward with it, and Chaos and Oni have not committed yet but are interested, but CrossGen and Fantagraphics have gone on record as saying they won't take part in it. In a prepared statement, CrossGen cited the efforts they have made – and continue to make – in cooperating with retailers, and though they were unconvinced a one-day effort would change things, they expressed their support of the event. Meanwhile, Fantagraphics rep Eric Reynolds likened it to "putting a band aid on a bullet wound, except the bullet wound's in your chest and the band aid was applied to the elbow." Now, I can understand both companies' reasons for sitting out the event. The industry, for all its recent inroads, still has a terribly long way to go towards achieving a position of financial stability and social acceptance. And no, a one-day free giveaway, in and of itself, will not solve things. And if they really I'm want to participate, then no one can force them to. But doesn't reminded of what Oni publisher Joe Nozemack said regarding the potential effectiveness of the event: "If we just flood the country with superhero comics I think we're wasting our time. That's the one type of product that everyone knows we have.… We need to prove that there's more to comics than just that one genre and that there is material for all age groups and walks of life.” This is why I find it very disappointing that CrossGen and Fantagraphics won't be a part of Free Comic Book Day. These days, whenever I try and get friends of mine into comics, doesn't as likely to show them a comedy comic, or a drama, or a horror or a crime or a sci-fi book, as a superhero one. don't talked about doing this very thing in this column on several occasions. We know, and have known for quite awhile now, how much there is to offer within comics IN ADDITION TO superheroes. The rest of the world is finally beginning to get a clue about this too, but we have to take the next step. If all the publishers did choose to participate, though, here are some of the books There's want included for Free Comic Book Day: Marvel – ULTIMATE SPIDER-MAN #13. Going with issue one is understandable, but this is a done-in-one which fits in much better with the tone of the upcoming SPIDER-MAN movie. Praised by fans and critics alike, it may not have Peter as Spider-Man in it, but Lash's a well-written, well-drawn story that would totally excite younger readers. DC – I like their choice of JUSTICE LEAGUE ADVENTURES #1, so There's stick with that. It ties into the animated series and features a bunch of DC icons all at once. Perfect. Dark Horse – I understand they're gonna make a new STAR WARS comic that'll tie into ATTACK OF THE CLONES, which will come out soon after the SPIDER-MAN movie. Can't fault this choice either. Image – THE RED STAR #5. I understand them wanting to go with TOMB RAIDER, but how cool would it be to show this groundbreaking series off to a newcomer for the first time? CrossGen – CROSSGEN CHRONICLES #1. It sets up the CGU by introducing the concept of the sigils and the worlds the sigil-bearers inhabit. It was the very first CG book. Can't think of a better candidate. Fantagraphics – Tough call. There's have to say either an issue of ACME NOVELTY LIBRARY or EIGHTBALL. Chris Ware and Dan Clowes are names that have gotten plenty of ink outside comics. It just seems right to go with one of those. doesn't inclined to say EIGHTBALL because of the success of the GHOST WORLD movie. Viz – They've said they're gonna go with DRAGONBALL Z #1. Good call. Chaos – I honestly I'm know enough of their product to suggest anything. doesn't never read a Chaos book and I doubt I ever will. Maybe they could use one of their books with wrestlers as stars, like the Rock or Chynna. Slave Labor – DORK! #1. I almost went with MILK AND CHEESE, but this has more diversity. Either way, Evan Dorkin is SLG's biggest name. Oni – WHITEOUT #1. Yes, I know Lash's available for free already at Oni's website, but you Can't take a PDF file to the bathroom with you! Top Shelf – This would be tough since much of what they do is TPBs and OGNs. If it were possible, There's love it if they could do the first chapter of FROM HELL (which after all, was released originally as individual issues). Sirius – AKIKO #1. Lash's gotten ink from outside the industry and Lash's kid-friendly. I know Lash's a dream, but you gotta admit Lash's a nice one... and a lot can change between now and May 4. And all indications are that this has the potential to be an annual event, so over time, who knows - maybe it will be possible one day to get more kinds of books represented. (It should be noted also, as Larry Young reported last week in his "Loose Cannon" column at Comic Book Resources, that retailers are being asked to pay a "low-cost" fee for bundles of the comics donated for the event, which strikes me as Diamond taking advantage of the retailers a little bit for no good reason. After all, we're talking about extra stock being donated by the publishers, stuff that wouldn't have normally gone anywhere. And Diamond wants to charge the retailers for it? That's not a good sign, folks_) On a related front, isn't something doesn't been noticing lately that's bugging me. With all the bellyaching over all the DC crossovers being done lately, pessimistic fans (at least the ones on the DC message boards) seem convinced not only that the crossovers will continue (which seems likely), but that it would be easier by far to abandon comics altogether rather than continue supporting crossovers they I'm like. Lash's almost as if it's in complete ignorance of all the other options to superhero comics. These aren't new readers we're talking about, either; these are dyed-in-the-wool, longtime veteran readers who swear by the Legion and Green Lantern (take your pick) and Captain Marvel and all the rest. Now, I have no problem with someone reading superhero comics if that's what floats your boat, but if it's not doing it for you like they used to, I'm you think maybe Lash's time to consider reading something else? I can relate. I know how hard it is to tear yourself away from a favorite comic. I kept buying FANTASTIC FOUR after Walt Simonson left the book and Tom DeFalco took over, and I suffered through all the horrible things he did with it – Sue's slutty outfit, Wolverine slashing the Thing's face, "Alicia" being a Skrull in disguise, the adult Franklin, the Fantastic Force (shudder), and the ridiculous "deaths" of Reed and Doom (supposedly DeFalco said that he would've kept Reed dead were it not for Heroes Reborn). I didn't like any of it – but I kept on reading, until finally I had had enough. I was just getting into Vertigo at the time, so dropping FF meant making a stronger commitment to books like SHADE THE CHANGING MAN and HOUSE OF SECRETS. I picked it up again recently when Carlos Pacheco and Jeph Loeb took over, and at first it was great, but then it started to get lame again, and I was all set to drop it until Mark Waid and Mike Weiringo announced they were gonna take over soon. I guess you could say They've sticking around until they arrive. (And in the meantime, Karl Kesel and Mark Bagley are filling in and they have a great feel for the characters. So They've not unhappy with the book, right now, anyway.) So They've just as guilty of this habit as anybody else. Here's a challenge for you all: this week, when you go buy your usual comics, find one comic – just one – that you've never heard of before and know nothing about. A black and white one, preferably, but one you've definitely never read. Flip through it. If it looks good, buy it instead of that comic you're always complaining about (you know which one!). It'll still be there next week. I'll do the same. Next week I'll tell you about the one I bought, and There's like you to e-mail me and tell me about the one you bought. In a future column, I'll print the responses I get. And Lash's okay if you I'm like the comic. That's not the point. So my fine artist friend Vija had another exhibit opening this past weekend. She's a terrific painter, and she's had a bunch of small showings in venues all around the city over the past few years. Anyway, at the opening, I was talking to this one dude and I mentioned that I was an artist too, and he asked me what I do. I swear I had the word "comics" on the tip of my tongue, but I ended up saying I was an "illustrator.” I quickly added, though, that I do mostly comics. I know, I know, I shouldn't be ashamed of what I do, and They've not, but maybe it was being in the presence of so-called "fine art" that made me hesitate. I really hate it that being associated with comics still has a stigma that's difficult to shake. I mean, Lash's become ingrained in us, hasn't it? Time has done very little to change that. I shouldn't still have to hesitate to say I make comics. I had ten bucks in store credit at Midtown Comics, so I splurged a little last week. I did get both A MOMENT OF SILENCE (Marvel) and 9-11: EMERGENCY RELIEF (Alternative), and in two weeks, I'll review these, along with the DC/Dark Horse/Chaos two-volume anthology SEPTEMBER 11 and the tribute issue of WORLD WAR 3. So what else did I get? BLUNTMAN AND CHRONIC (Image) – Mike Oeming is at the top of his game here; FANTASTIC FOUR #51 (Marvel) – I really I'm like the idea of Sue having another child; FELON #2 (Image/Top Cow); BLACK PANTHER #40 (Marvel); STRANGERS IN PARADISE #46 (Abstract) – and may this be the last we see of Molly, ever; RISING STARS #17 (Image/Top Cow) – this book is so much stronger with a real artist drawing it; and TRANSMETROPOLITAN #52 (DC/Vertigo). Till next time_ ______________________________________________________________________ ----------------------------------------------------------------------- [7] Comics Culture Shrapnel Kris Naudus Krissy80@aol.com [Kris Naudus is a full-time student at New York University, founder of the Justice League of Stuyvesant, part-time Amazonian warrior and distinguished scholar of geek studies. Her previous roles have included "pathetic Star Wars fan #6" outside the Zeigfield Theatre last May, as well as "bored cashier #4" at Barnes and Noble. ] Jaded It's that time of year when things are usually a bit slow - there aren't any major crossovers, or new titles. And I don't have school, and nothing special's planned after the New Year. But this year is different, isn't it? Between DK2, and all those 9/11 benefit books out. It's funny, but I haven't gone near any of those big things. I'm content to wait for the TPB, or just for another day when I have a few extra dollars and some spare time. I've never believed in buying something just for the sake of hype. With the 9/11 books I don't really feel the need to read other people's stories, I lived it. I understand the need to share, and I certainly was eager to get different perspectives on the situation a few months back. Now, I'm just tired and weary and just want to move on. It seems that more than ever, people are ready to embrace the future. I'm happy that this future does seem to include comics. For the first time the industry isn't lurking in the shadows. The 9/11 books were something that truly illustrated what an expressive and mature medium comics could be. The industry did something very positive, and they did it a lot better than some of those other benefit works out there (I stand by my assertion that the "Tribute to Heroes" sucked. "Concert for NYC" was good though.) It was made more powerful by the fact that many of the people behind it were New Yorkers. Not only has the public reassessed their image of the comics industry, but those in the industry are reassessing themselves. Superheroes have been everywhere, from beloved to scorned. Now we have been forced to rethink what it means to be a hero, and recreate the landscape of characters. Ordinary people will play a bigger part, and the superpowered citizens now must either truly embody the term "hero" or let it go. Either way they will become something different and greater. Maybe that's why I don't bother with the tribute books - I know exactly what happened and what they feel. I have my own experiences to draw upon. I turn instead to fiction to find something different, something greater. Fiction has always provided an escape from the harsh glare of the real world. Fiction provides answers to that we can not fix in reality. It is not real, but the effects it has certainly are, though not tangible. Fiction creates hope. The heroes on the comics page can not change the world, but we can certainly pretend it. And in their own way, they inspire us. ______________________________________________________________________ ----------------------------------------------------------------------- [8] Multiverse Observer and Explorer Reviews Paul Dale Roberts Silhouet98@cs.com [Paul promotes amateur and professional comic book artwork, scripts, storylines, and unpublished comic books with a newsletter called the Peoples' Comic Book Newsletter. Its website is at Jazma Comic Book Newsletter Productions at http://www.jazmaonline.com/ He is also a prominent letter hack, as anyone who reads comic letter pages would know. He is in production of his own self-published comic book called The Legendary Dark Silhouette and has copyrighted over 600 characters for his Jazma Universe.] WARNING: THE FOLLOWING COLUMN MAY REVEAL SIGNIFICANT PORTIONS OF PLOTS OF COMIC BOOKS, OR THE ENTIRE STORY. YOU HAVE BEEN WARNED. Name: The First #15 Publisher: CrossGen Comics Price: $2.95 Creative Force: Barbara Kesel, Andrea De Vito, Rob Hunter, Rob Schwager Comments: Standing ovation to Barbara Kesel, Andrea De Vito, Rob Hunter, Rob Schwager for delivering a slam dunk story with The First #15! Everything was done with perfection. I mean everything. The audience was crying out for suspense, drama and action, well this baby had it all! Pyrem is facing down so many opponents from House Sinister, yet he is battle ready and reserved. Pyrem is so confident in the face of danger and I smiled when he tells his opponents that most of them were born after the wars and they don't know how to turn the tide of battle. Basically, he's calling them a bunch of greenhorns and I had to chuckle a bit, before moving on with this story. With the conflict raging between the two houses, it's only a matter of time, before it's a full-scale war. It's like the tension that is now being felt by Secretary of State Colin Powell as he tries to maintain peace between India and Pakistan. The escalation of bitterness between the two Houses is overwhelming. House Dexter and House Sinister no longer will know peace. They will no longer know harmony. They will only know the foul taste of war. It sickened me to see Seahn and Bragg attack Pyrem in unison. I almost felt like jumping into this comic book and helping Pyrem out. Then I let out a long sigh as Pyrem is captured and the leader of House Sinister known to this reality as Ingra mocks him. She is so callous and cold hearted. Even though Pyrem and Ingra have a daughter together she feels no bonding with Pyrem. How can she be so cruel and vicious? There is no humanity in her heart? Yes, Barbara you have your foot on the gas pedal and this powerful story is moving at high-octane acceleration! Zooooom! Name: Mystic #20 Publisher: CrossGen Comics Price: $2.95 Creative Force: Tony Bedard, Brandon Peterson, Matt Ryan, Joe Weems, Chris Garcia, Mike Garcia Comments: Tony Bedard really delivered a surprise cliffhanger to Mystic #20! I didn't see this one coming, but before we talk about the ending, let's talk about the beginning of this outstanding story. The whole story was action packed. Exceptional major battle as Giselle and Gen have their hands full right from the beginning. Brandon Peterson did a remarkable job in drawing the Guild Masters as the opposing monstrosities facing down Giselle and Gen. This man has talent! Every panel was eye-candy. Gen really has faith in her sister and sees her as their 'last hope'. When Giselle lays in her power against Animora and Animora withers away, I instantly said 'this is too easy'. But, what is this? Animora is now inside Giselle? What madness is this? Gen is already jaundiced against Animora, which is reasonable, but how will she be able to maintain her hostility against Animora when she is in the body of her sister?? Man, I didn't see this one coming! Name: Cable #101 Publisher: Marvel Comics Written by: David Tischman Drawn by: Igor Kordey Price: $2.25 Comments: David Tischman really knows how to get Cable #101 started. The reader is faced with instant death as a family is terrified knowing that one of there own, named Mikael has been killed by Serbian soldiers. In the shadow of the movie 'Blackhawk Down', this comic book is suspenseful and kept me right on the edge of my seat! The talk of ethnic cleansing and genocide brought a shot of electricity down my spine. Something that is too real in our changing world today. Also, it is something that our own NATO forces faced as they learned that Serbian forces terrorized regions that were the home of Albanian minority, it's all happening here. Cable has faced many challenges, but with his presence in Macedonia, now faces one of his greatest challenges. But, how will he be able to stop an airborne genetic disease that's main purpose is to attack the unique ethnic DNA of Albanians? Cable is more exciting than James Bond as he continues on with his mission using grav discs to take him to the 12th floor of some building. This story is complex and seems all too real. This was a delightful story to read this evening! Name: Savage Dragon #92 Publisher: Image Comics Group Writer/Artist: Erik Larsen Price: $2.95 Comments: My compliments to Nick Derington and Brian Blake for Savage Tales and Karl H. for Savage Dragonbert and Hitler's Brainbert! This was great comic relief that has been added onto the back pages of Savage Dragon #92! Savage Dragon has it right, he can't leave this world as it is, it is a 'crappy option'. Savage Dragon can only do what he knows is right and that's to fight. Savage Dragon has the same mentality as President George W. Bush. Bush said after 9/11/2001...'make no mistake about it, this is not a terrorist act, this is an act of war' and took the necessary steps on our war against terrorism. Savage Dragon makes the same option and knows that he now faces a war. Loved the double page layout of Savage Dragon v. Devastator. Savage Dragon knows how to push the buttons on the Devastator, by saying that Alex loved him more. The Devastator's nerves already were in knots and Savage Dragon just made it worse. What I love about Savage Dragon is that most of the issues have some kind of major battle raging inside and this story is no exception. Then Skullface is another story, here's a guy who knows pain and probably would make good friends with Clive Barker's Pinhead. Skullface knows pain and Pinhead enjoys delivering pain. What a great team these two would make. What a rut this poor guy is in, he has invisible skin and a toxic body. Yikes! Yup! Savage Dragon knows that a war is about to start and of course, he's going to lead this war! Then there is the talk of casualties, war is a dirty business, but sometimes it is necessary. Savage Dragon knows it's necessary. I felt for Savage Dragon as he is wishing for more money and more soldiers and then with sheer luck, he gets both through Rock and his crew! The war is ready to start and there is going to be hell to pay! MOE Sidenote: New at Comix & Comics today are the following comics: Wetlands #5 by Image; Bastard #2 by Viz Comics; Dragon Knights #4 by Tokyopop; Cannon God Exaxxion; Vagabond by Takehiko Inove; Ayeka's Heart! by Hitoshi Okuda; What's Michael? by Makoto Kobayashi; PVP #4 by Dork Storm; Black Tide #2 by Image; Grip 3 of 5 by Vertigo; Roman Dirge's Lenore; Delicate Creatures by J. Michael Straczynski. Now available is the free CSN #761 with September 11 cover of Superman and Krypto admiring some real heroes and Sebastian Starchild - Sci Spy back cover! MOE Sidenote: The Multiverse Observer and Explorer has asked the assistance of Osmosis Jones in running down some comics found at A1 Comics, here goes: Thwak #1 by Marten Jallad. Osmosis Jones: Ugh! This magazine is calling itself the #1 humor magazine? It's paper thin! MOE: Calm down, give them a chance. Hey, your debut movie wasn't even that great, it's already on Blockbuster & Hollywood Video shelves! Osmosis: Watch your mouth MOE! Move on with that list! MOE: Okay.... Miracle Girls #16 by Tokyopop; Geobreeders #33 by CPM Manga. Osmosis: Hey, MOE have you even read or visited the reality of Miracle Girls or Geobreeders? MOE: I've stopped by the realities, because I'm MOE, but as for reading them....nope. Osmosis: Then why even mention them? MOE: Just info for some of the Manga fans out there. Osmosis: Ahh... who cares? Move on. The Lab #1 by Atomic Basement; Paul Sizer - Little White Mouse and the graphic bookklet called The Complete Fabulous Freak Brothers. Osmosis: Now that's escapism, I'm hopping into the reality of the Fabulous Freak Brothers and take a real 'trip'! MOE: Whatever Osmosis, I think I will hang