Fantom Comics January 2012

connect with us: Here's your host... The Comics Journeyman The Patron Saint Of Non-Superhero Comics   NEW NAME & TIME The modern day "fireside chat" about comics  Prime Time Comics ( #PrimeTimeCmx) on Twitter each week Sunday (8:00 pm EST)   hosted by @CmxJourneyman Twitter account not required Never Miss an Issue FREE!!! Join Fantom's Comic Book Reservation Service powered by comiXology YOU PULL, WE SHIP Not local to DC?? Check out the Fantom Comics Mail Order Service   Live on Twitter Each New Comic Book Day From 1-2pm #ShopTalk Support Fantom Comics when buying your digital comics Buy once, read anywhere Walking Dead, Talking Head New episodes February 12th,  New columns to follow each episode   THE   FILE   See our special offer ORDER UP!!! (Three days remaining for January pre-orders)   Happy 2012 to everyone as we start the cycle of a new year in comic books, hoping for even bigger and better than 2011! And already, the number of books that caught my eye from the January previews catalog has taken a big jump up from previous months. I'm going to try something new this month, moving away from the straight "pulllist.comiXology.com" categories (which are 100% inherited from Diamond Comics), and making up my own categories: 1) Trade Paperback - First Volumes; 2) Notable Reprints & Ongoing Trades; 3) Graphic Novel Picks; 4) Comics - New Ongoing Series; 5) Comics - New Limited Series; 6) Kid Friendly - GNs & Trades; 7) Kid Friendly - Comic Books. The Kid Friendly section has gotten so big, it might warrant it's own column sometime soon.   To get the ORDER UP!!! column delivered to your inbox, sign up for the SFTC  e-newsletter. Keep reading comics, may the journey never end.   The Comics Journeyman   And now, the comics arriving in your comic shop beginning in March 2012...   TRADE PAPERBACK  Game of Thrones Vol. 1 - I'm going to keep calling out this graphic adaptation of the first book in the George R. R. Martin A Song of Ice and Fire series. It's great work by writer Daniel Abraham and artist Tommy Patterson. We'll probably see a softcover version in a few month's time, but you'll probably be happy with the hardcover for $25.     Rachel Rising Vol. 1: Shadow of Death - First chance to jump onboard the latest offering from the fiercely independent Terry Moore (Strangers in Paradise, Echo). Collected volumes are the way that Moore's stories are best enjoyed, although I'm proud to be supporting his single issues as they hit the stands this time around.   Cinderella: Fables are Forever -  The second arc in the Cinderella-as-spy spinoff of the Fables series, with Chris Roberson writing and Shawn Mcmanus on artwork.  Graphic Canon Vol. 1: Gilgamesh To Shakespeare To Dangerous Liaisons - This is an interesting selection in the anthology category, with various artists interpreting some great works of literature. Besides those in the title are The Divine Comedy and The Cantebury Tales.    Lovecraft Anthology Vol. 1 - Another anthology, this focused on the short stories of horror master H. P. Lovecraft, who just keeps popping up in comics lately. Cosmic horror anyone? NOTABLE REPRINTS & ONGOING TPBs Channel Zero: Complete Collection - I love seeing where an artist's body of work originates, and here's a chance to do just that with creator Brian Wood (Northlanders, DMZ, Local). Channel Zero is his first work in the comics medium, assisted by Becky Cloonan on the artwork True Blood Vol. 3: The French Quarter - The perfect warm-up for the upcoming season, Truebies should be reading the series by IDW. Written by David Tischman with artwork by David Messina Gotham Central Book 4: Corrigan -  New printing of the excellent cop-focused series set in the world of The Batman from the great collaboration between Greg Rucka and Ed Brubaker. Buffy the Vampire Slayer Vol. 1: Long Way Home - A deluxe, oversized HC that combines the first 2 story arcs of Season 8, written by Joss Whedon and Brian K. Vaughan. Fables  Vol. 5: Deluxe Edition - The latest deluxe HC of the long-running Bill Willingham/Mark Buckingham series, for those collecting these beautiful volumes. Push Man and Other Stories - A chance to check out the work of a Japanese master: Yoshihiro Tatsumi. D&Q is actually reprinting three of their previous compilations of Tatsumi's books on the same day, I picked the first volume that they published in 2005. Manara: Erotica Vol. 1: "Click" and other stories - A bit spendy at $59.99, this is the first of 3 volumes being published by Dark Horse that will cover the full works of Italian creator Milo Manara, who published erotic comics beginning in the 1970's. Will Eisner's The Spirit: Artist Ed - I've wanted to read the best of The Spirit, but could never bring myself to slog through any of the 27 volumes of The Spirit Archives published by DC Comics a decade ago. This is a serious commitment at $95, and a oversized format of 15" x 22", but the iconic Will Eisner is worth it! Flcl Omnibus - Another Dark Horse production of a celebrated manga work. A "surreal sci-fi romp" from writer Gainax and artist Hajime Ueda. GRAPHIC NOVEL PICKS Pete and Miriam - I took immediate note of these words: "In his first full graphic novel since his Eisner Award-winning performance on Satchel Paige: Striking Out Jim Crow..."  The answer to the blank is writer/artist Rich Tommaso, and I found his Satchel Paige to be so outstanding that my meticulous reviewing of the monthly catalog pays off, as I can ensure I won't miss Tommaso's next book. This one is being produced by BOOM! Studios. Angelman: Fallen Angel - Austrian Nicolas Mahler's "sardonic take on superheroes", their fans, the business and media attention toward them. Published by Fantagraphics, looks like a good value at $18.99.  I am Not A Plastic Bag - I had never heard of The Great Pacific Garbage Patch, but apparently it is a real-world phenomenon. "Told entirely through images, this 'green' graphic novel by Rachel Hope Allison will be printed on 100% recycled paper and will be out in time for Earth Day on April 22." Monsieur Jean: Singles Theory - The first time this Mr. Jean book is published in English, it's the story of a Parisian bachelor from French creators Phillippe Dupuy & Charles Berberian. Price is $24.95. The Walking Dead: Cutting Room Floor - This is interesting for fans of the long-running series by Robert Kirkman, with some ideas that didn't make it into the series. Were they used in the TV show??? Well, the promo says "Never before seen plots", so I guess not... Gonzo A Graphic Biography of Hunter S Thompson - Would I read I traditional biography about Hunter S. Thompson? Probably not. But would I read a graphic novel biography about the author of the great Fear and Loathing in Las Vegas. Writing credit to Will Bingley, with artwork by Anthony Hope-Smith. COMICS - NEW ONGOING SERIES Saga #1 - New ongoing series from Y: The Last Man creator Brian K. Vaughan, a sci-fi/fantasy epic! Very excited to catch this from the start. Interesting how many of the old Vertigo creators are popping up with Image Comics lately. Artwork is by Fiona Staples. Fairest #1 - A new Fables spinoff series written by Bill Willingham and starting with a 6-issue arc that picks up from Fables #107, where Briar Rose was stolen away by goblins. Phil Jimenez handles artwork duties on the first story arc. Future arcs promise to focus on secret histories of female Fables Rapunzel, Cinderella, The Snow Queen, Thumbelina, Snow White and Rose Red. Dominique Laveau: Voodoo Child #1 - A new Vertigo ongoing series, 'nuff said. Obligated to check it out. Written by Selwyn Sefu Hinds, artwork by Denys Cowan and John Floyd. Saucer Country #1 - Simply calling this out because it is also a Vertigo production. Will introduce myself to some of the new breed of Vertigo creators, in this case writer Paul Cornell and artist Ryan Kelly. Beyond the Fringe #1 - Written by Fringe start Joshua Jackson (Peter Bishop), I somehow missed this digital comic. It tackles what happened to Peter between seasons 3 and 4 of the TV show. Artwork by Jorge Jimenez. Bionic Woman #1 - Another classic TV property being done in comics by Dynamite Entertainment. Writer is Paul Tobin, with Leno Carvalho on artwork. Hoax Hunters #0 - A comic book that sounds suspiciously like a cross between TV shows Mythbusters and Ghost Hunters sounds... interesting. Hoping writers Michael Moreci and Steve Seeley take the reality TV characters in some crazy directions. Artwork is by JM Ringuet. Manhattan Projects #1 - I'm taking a second look at hot writer Jonathan Hickman (The Nightly News, The Red Wing, FF), paired with artists Nick Pitarra and Cris Peter. The Secret History of D.B. Cooper #1 - Interesting to see a new ongoing series from Oni Press, this one a revisionist take on the famous airline hijacker. One-man creation team of Brian Churilla. COMICS - NEW LIMITED SERIES New Deadwardians #1 (of 8) - Well, I just can't pass up a Vertigo book, even if it is another vampire/zombie story. Written by Dan Abnett with art by I. N. J. Culbard. Rocketeer Adventures 2 #1 (of 4) - I really enjoyed the first volume of Rocketeer stories. Featured writer to kick off volume 2 is Marc Guggenheim & featured artist Sandy Plunkett. Smoke and Mirrors #1 (of 5) - A new original series about a stage magician from IDW written by Mike Costa and Jon Armstrong, with art by Ryan Browne. Tails Vol. 1 (of 3) - This book is available on the web at tailscomic.com, and from everything I can tell this is the first print appearance. Per creator Ethan Young's website "It's a slice-of-life comedy with a supernatural twist." Not sure that it's not really a trade paperback as it's priced at $15.99. KID FRIENDLY - GNs and TPBs   Archie Meets Kiss OR  Archie Meets Kiss: Collector's Edition Hardcover - See the legendary rock band KISS play a gig in good ol' Riverdale. Both a softcover trade for $12.99 and a hardcover collector's edition for $29.99 are available on the  same day from writer Alex Segura and artist Dan Parent. Atomic Robo Vol. 6: Ghost of Station X - The latest collection of stories from writer Brian Clevinger and artist Scott Wegener. Robo is kid friendly enough to pick up any volume and start reading, but you can always go back to the beginning to get the whole story. Cow Boy - From writer Nathan Cosby and artist Chris Eliopoulos and publisher Archaia comes the story of a boy cowboy looking to round up his entire outlaw family. Plus short stories by Snarked creator Roger Langridge and Atomic Robo creators Brian Clevinger and Scott Wegener, all for $19.95. Jump Start Windy Hollows - Zenescope partners with the educational software and gaming website Jump Start on the first graphic novel set in the Jump Start world. Low price at $5.99 with Adira Edmund and Neo Edmund on board as writers. Michael Recycle and the Tree Top Cops - What kid wouldn't like to read to their kids about a superhero that teaches people how to recycle? This looks like the 4th in writer Ellie Patterson (formerly Ellie Bethel) with artist Alexandra Colombo. Muhammad Ali King of the Ring - The latest from the Campfire line of graphic biographies, only $9.99 from writer Lewis Helfand and artist Lalit Kumar Sharma. Sammy the Mouse Vol. 1 - Collecting the 1st 3 issues of an Ignatz award winner, printed by creator Zak Sally on his own press. Three Stooges Vol. 1: Bed Bugged - From Papercutz, out in time for the new movie (wait.. there's going to be a new Three Stooges movie !?!?) written by Jim Salicrup and George Gladir (Sabrina the Teenage Witch creator) with art by Stan Goldberg (Archie Comics). KID FRIENDLY - COMIC BOOKS Atomic Robo: Real Science Adventures #1 - New set of Atomic Robo stories from Brian Clevinger.  Wrath of the Titans: Force of Trojans #1 (of 4) - Somehow this new all ages series is tied into the 2012 sequel to the PG-13 Clash of the Titans film starring Liam Neeson & Sam Worthington. This first issue features characters Apollo and Artemis, and is written by DChad Jones and drawn by Damian Graff. Wrath of the Titans: Minotaur - This one-shot from BlueWater Comics features Perseus. Written by C. W. Cooke with artwork by Ramon Salas. Toy Story #1 (of 4) - New original story in 4 issue miniseries. Ice Age Playing Favorites - A one-shot from BOOM! Stuidos, written by Caleb Monroe with art by Shelli Paroline. Dorothy of Oz Prequel #1 (of 4) - From IDW, a prequel to the animated film to be released in August 2012. Written by Denton J. Tipton with artwork by Blair Shedd. Union Station - 50 Massachusetts Avenue NE | Washington, DC 20002 | 202-216-9478 www.fantomcomics.com

Howard Prof Marc Singer at Comic Book Resources

What Are You Reading? with Marc Singer
    January 22, 2012  by Chris Mautner
http://robot6.comicbookresources.com/2012/01/what-are-you-reading-with-marc-singer/

Post fact-checks cartoon attack ads

Pro-Gingrich cartoon ad slightly wrong about Romney
 by Josh Hicks
Washington Post Fact Checker blog 01/20/2012
http://www.washingtonpost.com/blogs/fact-checker/post/pro-gingrich-cartoon-ad-slightly-wrong-about-romney/2012/01/20/gIQAKwziDQ_blog.html

Aaron "Boondocks" McGruder worked on Red Tails movie

Path to make Tuskegee Airmen movie 'Red Tails' carried a lot of cultural freight.

By Lonnae O'Neal Parker,

Washington Post January 22 2012

http://www.washingtonpost.com/lifestyle/style/path-to-make-tuskegee-airmen-movie-red-tails-carried-a-lot-of-cultural-freight/2012/01/16/gIQAYZSFEQ_story.html

You're A Good Man, Charlie Brown coming to Olney Theatre

You're A Good Man, Charlie Brown

Book, Music and Lyrics by Clark Gesner
Directed and Choreographed by Stephen Nachamie
Musical Direction by Christopher Youstra

February 22 - March 18 • On the Mainstage

The Gang's All Here!
Charlie Brown struggles through another full day of book reports, baseball games, kite flying, and philosophy with a little help from his friends. Charles Schulz's classic Peanuts gang takes a leap from the newspaper page onto the stage in this lively musical. Family Musical

"Happiness Is..." Gala 2012

March 3, 2012

For sponsorship opportunities or information about donating to the Silent Auction, please contact David Frankenberger at 301.924.4485 ext. 128 or by email at dfrank@olneytheatre.org.

Save-the-date for our "Happiness Is..." Gala 2012 featuring: cocktail hour, seated dinner, silent auction, live performances and a special awards ceremony. For more information, please contact David Frankenberger at 301.924.4485 ext. 128 or dfrank@olneytheatre.org.

Comics-creating courses at Anne Arundel Community College this spring

ATS-350 Comic Book Careers: Overview
0 credit hours
0.0 ceu hours

Comic Book Careers: Industry Overview Learn how to build a career as a comic design artist. Explore the latest industry practices. Discuss the skills and strategies required to package, market, publish and sell publications. $29+ includes $5 fee.

ATS-324 Comics I: Design and Creation
0 credit hours
0.0 ceu hours

Comics 1: Design and Creation Gain the basic skills of a cartoon and animation artist. Learn how to create a successful storyboard, the elements of comic drawing, storyline editing and cohesive draft page development. Enrollment limit: 12. $200+ includes $20 fee. Note: Previous basic and life drawing experience recommended. Instructor will provide supply list at first class.

According to a little flyer I picked up, these run from February through April and are taught by C. Edward Sellner, "Creative Director, Visionary Comics".

Examiner reviews Jules Feiffer's "Little Murders"

A murder here, a murder there at American Century Theater
By: Barbara Mackay
The Washington Examiner (January 22 2012)
 http://washingtonexaminer.com/entertainment/theater/2012/01/murder-here-murder-there/2118221

Truitt on 'Peter Panzerfaust'

'Peter Panzerfaust' reimagines Peter Pan as Nazi resister
By Brian Truitt, USA TODAY January 19 2012
http://www.usatoday.com/life/comics/story/2012-01-19/Peter-Panzerfaust-comic-book-series/52681130/1

Feb 25: The Silence Of Our Friends booksigning at Politics and Prose

Mark Long, Jim Demonakos, And Nate Powell - The Silence Of Our Friends

Feb 25 2012 1:00 pm at Politics and Prose.

Thanks to Colin Solan of Convention Scene for the tip.

Comic Riffs interview on Bluewater's Steve Jobs comic book

STEVE JOBS COMIC: Bio-book's writer on the sophistication — and simplicity — of distilling a remarkable life
By Michael Cavna
Washington Post Comic Riffs blog January 21 2012
http://www.washingtonpost.com/blogs/comic-riffs/post/steve-jobs-comic-bio-books-writer-on-the-sophistication--and-simplicity--of-distilling-a-remarkable-life/2012/01/14/gIQAijBKFQ_blog.html

Jan 21: Canceled - Beyond Comics In Store Signing

 

C A N C E L E D Meet Casey Jones Creator/Author  All Fall Down   Saturday January 21st 12:00noon to 3:00pm     At Beyond Comics Gaithersburg    C A N C E L E D   We will be rescheduling!    See a preview of the comic book Here!    Please visit our stores any time. Gaithersburg                                       Frederick Gaithersburg Square                       Route 85 536 North Frederick Ave                  5632 Buckeystown Pike Gaithersburg, MD 20877                  Frederick, MD 21704 301-668-8202                               (301) 6668-8202

Beyond Comics | Gaithersburg Square | 536 North Frederick Avenue | Gaithersburg | MD | 20878

Jonathan Monaghan's fine art animation reviewed

The Game Blame - Jonathan Monaghan: Sacrifice of the Mushroom Kings at Curator's Office to Feb. 18
By John Anderson
Washington City Paper January 20, 2012
 http://www.washingtoncitypaper.com/articles/42074/jonathan-monaghan-sacrifice-of-the-mushroom-kings-at-curators-office/

 

Jan 27: Steamboy anime showing at JICC

I saw the Road of Destiny exhibit last night and enjoyed it as well. ANIMEZING 2012 STEAMBOY © Copyright 2004 Swank Motion Pictures, Inc. ©Copyright Triumph Releasing  Friday, January 27th @ 6:30 pm   Mark your calendars!   Exhibit The Road of Destiny: Ikuo Hirayama's Silk Road Now - 2/3 Monday - Friday 9:00 am - 5:00 pm       J-Film  Series  TBA 2/24 @ 6:30 pm     Where: JICC 1150 18th St., NW   Washington, DC 20036   (202) 238-6900  jicc@ws.mofa.go.jp  Driving Directions Add to my calendar     An epic sci-fi adventure nearly a decade in the making, Steamboy marked the ambitious return of Katsuhiro Otomo, director of the groundbreaking animated feature Akira.     Set in Victorian England against a visually striking fusion of past and future, Steamboy introduces us to the Steams: three generations of inventors perched on the precipice of a technological breakthrough. When the youngest of them, a gadget-happy boy named Ray, receives a mysterious metal ball capable of harnessing enough energy to power an entire nation, he soon finds himself at the center of an international war. In the wrong hands, the device could become a devastating weapon. Will Ray find the courage to use it to save his family and his home from destruction?   Japanese with English subtitles. Rated PG-13. 126 min, 2004. Directed by Katsuhiro Otomo.   This event is free and open to the public. Please note that seating is limited and registration does not guarantee guests a seat. Registered guests will be seated first. Open seats will be given to guests on standby when the program begins. Register Now!

Embassy of Japan | 1150 18th St., NW | Suite 100 | Washington | DC | 20036

Jan 29: Ron Marz at Shoff promo sportscard & comic book show

Just a reminder of our upcoming Shoff Promotions Baseball Card & Sports Card Show PLUS our Comic Book & Nonsports Card Show Together again SUNDAY JANUARY 29 10am-3:30pm at theTysons Corner Va. Crowne Plaza. We will have a ballroom full of dealers selling their wide assortment of great collectibles including sports cards- vintage  to the present, autographs and sports collectibles and also great hockey cards & memorabilia AND Gold, Silver and Modern Age comic books, a large & wide variety of Non Sports Cards1900's to the present and  all types of hobby supplies. Something for everyone

AS A SPECIAL BONUS WE have GUESTS:
RON MARZ-comic book writer legend whose works include Silver Surfer,Green Lantern,Witch Blade and in 2011 VooDoo and much, much  more.
WASHINGTON REDSKINS Stars of the Past - RON MCDOLE and PAT FISCHER noon-2pm only $10 per autograph

Something for everyone for sure..
I hope to see you SUNDAY JANUARY 29
Nick Shoff

'Mad Man' on PBS cartoon says Post blog

Jon Hamm becomes a cartoon in PBS kids show
By Jen Chaney
Washington Post Celebritology blog January 19 2012
http://www.washingtonpost.com/blogs/celebritology/post/jon-hamm-becomes-a-cartoon-in-pbs-kids-show/2012/01/19/gIQApBD0AQ_blog.html

Truitt on Edmondson's Dancer

Fancy footwork inspires Nathan Edmondson's 'Dancer' series
By Brian Truitt, USA TODAY January 19 2012
http://www.usatoday.com/life/comics/story/2012-01-19/Dancer-comic-book-series/52674194/1

Big Planet Comics Orbit Newsletter - January 19, 2012

January 19, 2012

More Polls and Sales! Voting is open on 7 of 9 categories for the Best of 2011, the last two will be up on Friday and Monday. Click the links below to add your voice: Best New Series Best Reprint Best Artist Best Miniseries Best for Kids Best Single Issue Best Writer Best Ongoing Series - on Friday! Best Graphic Novel - on Monday! We finished our Best of 2011 podcast, so you can download or listen to that one now if you want to hear which ones we picked! We are also running sales throughout the month of January! Bethesda is offering 40% off hardcovers this week. College Park is offering 50% off all back issues in the bins and 50% off anything on the sale table. U Street is offering 40% off hardcovers this week. Vienna is offering 40% off hardcovers this week and 40% off all Essentials and Showcases. Feel free to forward on our newsletter, and please send us any comments or mailing list requests to vienna@bigplanetcomics.com Thanks! - the Big Planet Comics kids Events Feb. 4 - Magic: The Gathering Dark Ascension Tournament Big Planet Comics in College Park will have a Magic: The Gathering tournament for the launch of the new Dark Ascension set on Saturday, February 4, 2012, starting at noon. For more information please contact Peter at our College Park store. Big Planet Comics of College Park 7315 Baltimore Ave. College Park, MD 20740 301-699-0498 bigplanetcollegepark@yahoo.com May 5 - Jeremy Whitley Signing Jeremey Whitley, writer of the new all-ages comic Princeless, will be appearing at our Vienna store for a signing on Saturday, May 5, in conjunction with Free Comic Book Day. We will announce the exact time he will be there closer to the event. Big Planet Comics of Vienna 426 Maple Ave. East Vienna, VA 22180 703-242-9412 vienna@bigplanetcomics.com Prophet #21 by Brandon Graham and Simon Roy A complete relaunch of the '90s Prophet series makes this the first issue of an whole new era. John Prophet awakes from cryosleep in the distant future where humanity has devolved and aliens rule the strange new Earth. He begins his mission across this alien Earth, so it's a lot of amazing visuals of his journey. Great art, strange world scifi, amazing! Twelve 1 SC by J. Michael Straczynski and Chris Weston Speaking of WW2, a group of 12 heroes frozen at the end of the war are awoken by the US government in 2008 and recruited after Civil War to be a face of the government's new patriotic superhero program. But all twelve have problems readjusting to the strange modern world, and then the murders begin! A compelling character based story in the vein of Astro City. Steve Canyon 1: 1948-1948 HC by Milton Caniff A definitive, beautifully reproduced collection of the beginning of perhaps the greatest adventure comic of all time! Caniff's best art, full of beautiful women, dangerous international adventure, and airplanes! Captain Canyon reassembles his WW2 era crew to go into private transport after the war, leading to adventures in the US and South America and the Middle East and more! Dense exciting stories! So good! Marvel Firsts 1970s SC by everyone! Another amazing cross section of the first appearances of a lot of Marvel characters from the 1970s, covering the vast diversity of their line, including war, romance, superhero, horror, adventure, westerns and more! Some include: Ghost Rider! Luke Cage! Man-Thing! Dracula! Shanna the She-Devil! Warlock! The Beast! Night Nurse! Killraven! The Cat! Red Wolf! A great sampler of less-known part of Marvel's comic history. Big Planet Comics Podcast #30 We're back! In this week's podcast Kevin, Nick and Jared discuss local TV infamy, characters battlin', and review all the new stuff. Download this week's now or subscribe on iTunes! Send us questions to podcast@bigplanetcomics.com Danger Girl: Revolver #1 by Andy Hartnell and Chris Madden A new Danger Girl joins the team on their new quest. Daredevil #8 by Mark Waid and Kano The Black Cat tries to use DD and makes Spidey jealous! Diablo #2 by Aaron Williams and Joseph LaCroix Jacob and his new ally are hunted by the warriors from his village. Fraggle Rock Classics 1 SC by Stan Kay and Marie Severin Some of the classic Fraggle stories from the 1980s! (all ages) Halo: Fall of Reach: Invasion #1 by Brian Reed and Felix Ruiz Master Chief begins his defense of Reach! Lord of the Jungle #1 by Arvid Nelson and Roberto Castro The violent saga of Tarzan begins on the African coast. Memorial #2 by Chris Johnson and Rich Ellis Em uses her magic key as the Court of Shadows tries to catch her. New Defenders 1 SC by Giffen/Dematteis/Gillis and Perlin/more Far out fantasy including Odin, elves and the New Mutants! Raw Power #1 by Josh Bayer A triply comic about G Gordon Liddy vs. punks and the Cat Man! Steed and Mrs. Peel #1 by Grant Morrison and Ian Gibson The spies from the Avengers TV show in an adventure from 1990. Superior #7 by Mark Millar and Leinil Francis Yu The finale comes as Superior must make a choice about his soul. Uncanny X-Force #20 by Rick Remender and Robbi Rodriguez Fantomex is kidnapped and put on trial for murdering Apocalypse!

Small Press Expo (SPX) registration open

http://www.spxpo.com/exhibitors/exhibitor-registration

OT: Dave Astor on four cartoonists he's known

Long-time Editor and Publisher super cartoonist columnist Dave Astor (who was let go in their last layoffs) has a post on four cartoonists he knew that were all born in the same year. There's a glancing mention of DC, but you should read this because Dave wrote about syndicated comics for 20 years and knows a lot. He's also apparently got a book out - I'm getting more details on it from him. (followup: David reports he's looking for a publisher)

The Complexity of a Fantastic Four

1/19/12 http://www.huffingtonpost.com/dave-astor/the-complexity-of-a-fanta_b_1201574.html

2 animation articles in today's Express

Sterling's Gold: An 'Archer' Field Guide
By Fiona Zublin
Express January 19, 2012, p. 15
http://www.expressnightout.com/2012/01/sterlings-gold-an-archer-field-guide/

and

 

The Kids Are All Right: There's a surprising sens of optimism within 'Unsupervised'.

Kevin McDonough / Universal UClick

Express January 19, 2012, p. 17

Jan 23: Former Prince Valiant writer Cullen Murphy at Politics and Prose

Former Prince Valiant writer Cullen Murphy will be at at Politics and Prose bookstore on January 23rd at 7pm signing his new book God's Jury.

 

I'm sure he'd be glad to sign a Prince Valiant collection as well.

Politics and Prose appreciates Doonesbury's appreciation

David Cohen, one of the new store owners, blogs about his bookstore's appearance in Doonesbury.

FoxNews story on big, bad comics

Relaunched Comics Using Sex and Violence To Sell: MyFoxDC.com

Here's that FoxNews story which appears to have been about as bad as guest commentator Ray Bottorff Jr. expected - there's a text article on this site:

Relaunched Comics Using Sex and Violence To Sell
Sherri Ly
myfoxdc 18 Jan 2012,
http://www.myfoxdc.com/dpp/news/special_report/relaunched-comics-using-sex-and-violence-to-sell-011812

Big Planet Comic's Jared Smith is quoted (if misidentified). And in Fox's defense (I can't believe I wrote that), Starfire's new approach to casual sex has been questioned in the comics community as well, as has the T&A of the Catwoman comic. Neither of which I'm reading so take my opinion with a grain of salt too.

and here's some commentary:

TV Report Targets DC Comics For Sex and Violence
01/19/2012


I especially like the comparison picture here: http://www.bleedingcool.com/2012/01/18/fox-news-calls-catwoman-fictionalised-playboy

and advice from the Comic Book Legal Defense Fund (I'm a member):

Retailer Advisory: How To Manage A Media Attack

January 18th, 2012

By Charles Brownstein

http://cbldf.org/homepage/how-to-manage-a-media-attack/

and although DC wouldn't comment to Fox, here's commentary they did do on the same day:

Why Jim Lee And Dan DiDio Decided To Reboot DC Comics [Video]
BY Kevin Ohannessian and Adam Barenblat
January 18 2012
http://www.fastcompany.com/1809039/jim-lee-dan-didio-dc-comics-relaunch-video

Truitt on Image retread Glory and Dead Man's Run

Glory hallelujah: Image relaunches classic superheroine
By Brian Truitt, USA TODAY January 18 2012
http://www.usatoday.com/life/comics/story/2012-01-18/Glory-comic-book-series-relaunches/52649650/1

....sorry, but "classic superheroine?" I don't think so.

Greg Pak creates a hellish prison for 'Dead Man's Run'
By Brian Truitt, USA TODAY January 17 2012
http://www.usatoday.com/life/comics/story/2012-01-17/Dead-Mans-Run-comic-book-series/52621720/1

Interview on revival of Feiffer's Little Murders

Questioning Jules Feiffer's Little Murders at American Century
 by Mike Rhode on Jan. 18, 2012
http://www.washingtoncitypaper.com/blogs/artsdesk/theater/2012/01/18/questioning-jules-feiffers-little-murders-at-american-century/

Walking Dead tv show interview in Examiner

Talking with IronE Singleton of 'The Walking Dead'
By: Patricia Sheridan | Pittsburgh Post-Gazette
Washington Examiner January 18 2012, p. 21

http://washingtonexaminer.com/entertainment/2012/01/talking-irone-singleton-walking-dead/2105846

Telnaes and Wuerker on the future of the editorial cartoon

The Golden Age for Editorial Cartoonists at the Nation's Newspapers is Over
A report presented by The Herb Block Foundation
http://www.herbblockfoundation.org/sites/default/files/imce_uploads/pdfs/hbf2011whitepaper_f1.pdf

Truitt on Billy Fog

Graphic novel 'Billy Fog' stars a boy with 'trouble sight'
By Brian Truitt, USA TODAY January 16 2012
http://www.usatoday.com/life/comics/story/2012-01-16/Billy-Fog-graphic-novel/52601694/1

Dale Rawlings chat online

Meet a Local Cartoonist: A Chat With Dale Rawlings
by Mike Rhode on Jan. 17, 2012
http://www.washingtoncitypaper.com/blogs/artsdesk/visual-arts/2012/01/17/meet-a-local-cartoonist-a-chat-with-dale-rawlings/

 

Truitt on Nightwing

Nightwing is an inspiring hero in his relaunched series
By Brian Truitt, USA TODAY January 16 2012
http://www.usatoday.com/life/comics/story/2012-01-16/Nightwing-comic-book-series/52592040/1

Joshua Luna's Whispers preview online

http://www.comicbookresources.com/?page=preview&id=11078

Richard Thompson taking time off for physical therapy

He's got the story of his break from Cul de Sac here.

Cavna on Tintin books; Toles on Mitt and money

Two new books about Tintin and his creator
By Michael Cavna,
Washington Post January 15 2012
http://www.washingtonpost.com/entertainment/books/two-new-books-about-tintin-and-his-creator/2012/01/11/gIQAzui0wP_story.html

And soon we'll find out
By Tom Toles
January 12 2012
http://www.washingtonpost.com/blogs/tom-toles/post/and-soon-well-find-out/2012/01/11/gIQAogq1qP_blog.html

Truitt on Supreme's return, the Activity and cartoons

Image Comics' Erik Larsen takes on a 'Supreme' new role
By Brian Truitt, USA TODAY January 13 2012
http://www.usatoday.com/life/comics/story/2012-01-13/Supreme-comic-book-series/52539116/1

'The Activity' aims for realism with its government intrigue
By Brian Truitt, USA TODAY January 11 2011

DVD sets highlight obscure 'G.I. Joe,' 'Transformers' 'toons
By Brian Truitt, USA TODAY January 10 2012

Short Frank Cho interview online

Interview with Frank Cho at Albuquerque Comic Con, possible Zombie King movie?
Jared Earickson, Albuquerque Comic Books Examiner
January 14, 2012
http://www.examiner.com/comic-books-in-albuquerque/interview-with-frank-cho-at-albuquerque-comic-con-possible-zombie-king-movie

Local guy comments on internet animation

Around minute 22 I have a talking head moment - but the whole program is well done and worth watching. I had a second commentary where I recommended Ann Telnaes' animation on the Washington Post's website, but that didn't make it in - Mike

Nick Muirhead
"Online animators with a political punch,"
Al Jazeera's Listening Post (January 14, 2012): http://www.aljazeera.com/programmes/listeningpost/2012/01/201211481528732918.html

Linda Holmes on Beauty and the Beast's return

'Beauty And The Beast' Returns And Enchants, Even In Unneeded 3-D
by Linda Holmes
National Public Radio's Monkey See blog (January 14, 2012):
http://www.npr.org/blogs/monkeysee/2012/01/14/145189123/beauty-and-the-beast-returns-and-enchants-even-in-unneeded-3-d

Post's Stuever on new animation

'Napoleon Dynamite,' 'Unsupervised' and 'Archer': Cartoons that feel unanimated
By Hank Stuever,
Washington Post January 15 2012
http://www.washingtonpost.com/entertainment/television/napoleon-dynamite-again-gosh/2012/01/08/gIQAlwbhwP_story.html