Sunday, January 13, 2008

QUICK REVIEWS FOR COMICS DUE 01-16-08

QUICK REVIEWS FOR COMICS DUE 01-16-08
By John Judy
(Support Striking WGA Writers! Buy their comic books!)

AMAZING SPIDER-MAN #547 by Dan Slott and Steve McNiven. Nevermind the plot, I just want to see if they can really get this thing out three weeks a month. Betting pool? BTW, Dan Slott rocks and it looks like Spidey’s fighting ninjas or Yakuza or possibly those poor, metal-faced Persians from “300.”

ANGEL: AFTER THE FALL #3 by Joss Whedon, Brian Lynch, and Franco Urru. Illyria’s back. Hijinks ensue. Recommended.

BONE COLOR EDITION VOL.7: GHOST CIRCLES HC & SC written and illustrated by Jeff Smith. The Bone Epic continues and (despite the name) is appropriate for all ages. Your bookshelf awaits.

BOOSTER GOLD #6 by Geoff Johns and Dan Jurgens. The one we’ve been waiting for. Can Booster save Blue Beetle? Fingers crossed.

DISNEY’S DUCKTAILS BY MARV WOLFMAN: SCROOGE’S QUEST SC by MW and Various Artists. Gemstone Publishing has brought this back into print for the first time since 1990. It’s Scrooge McDuck by the guy who re-invented the Teen Titans, among other things. Gotta look.

DMZ #27 by Brian Wood and Nathan Fox. So what do people do for night-time fun in post-apocalypse New York? Pretty much what they do now except with even more gunplay, if such a thing is possible. Not for kids, recommended.

DOOM PATROL VOL. 6: PLANET LOVE SC by Grant Morrison, Richard Case, and Friends. The final volume of Morrison’s legendary run on the junkyard dogs of DC’s super-teams. Collecting DP #58-63 and DOOM FORCE SPECIAL #1. Recommended.

EC ARCHIVES: CRIME SUSPENSTORIES, VOL. 1 HC by Feldstein, Wood, Craig, Ingels, Kurtzman, Kamen, David, and Roussos. The EC Gods of 1950-51 have willed us these 24 twisted masterpieces. The first six issues of this series are all here. You must have this book.

FELL #9 by Warren Ellis and Ben Templesmith. “Detective Richard Fell: Hostage Negotiator.” Do you really need to know more? Highly recommended.

GRENDEL: BEHOLD THE DEVIL #3 of 8 written and illustrated by Matt Wagner. The story is good but the art is A Gift from On High. The world is better for the presence of Matt Wagner and his drafting table. Recommended.

IMMORTAL IRON FIST #12 by Ed Brubaker, Matt Fraction, and David Aja. Okay, it’s taken a year but now some of the intrigue is starting to clear up and it looks like a great fight is in the works. Putting the “Capital!” back in “Seven Capital Cities of Heaven!” Recommended.

INCREDIBLE HERCULES #113 by Greg Pak, Fred Van Lente, and Khoi Pham. While the Red Hulk is off doing his thing, Herc’s keeping this series going with a little help from the Smart Asian Kid who IS NOT a surrogate for any comic writer we know of so put that idea right out of your mind, Mister-Man! This issue touches upon some of Herc’s classical Greek back-story so that’s kind of cool. Also, a family reunion with Ares occurs.

JUSTICE LEAGUE OF AMERICA #17 by Several People. Two stories, no waiting! Big fight up front, mystery in the back. Something for everyone!

THUNDERBOLTS VOL. 1: FAITH IN MONSTERS SC by Warren Ellis, Mike Deodato, and Others. Collecting T-Bolts #110-115 and a couple of miscellaneous
Stories showing how Ellis transformed this team into The Dirty Dozen on crack. Recommended, but too violent for younger kids.

WOLVERINE ORIGINS #21 by Daniel Way and Steve Dillon. Deadpool guest-stars as this title explores what may be its proper place in the universe: As an “Itchy and Scratchy” cartoon.

ZOMBIES VS ROBOTS VS AMAZONS #2 of 3 by Chris Ryall and Ashley Wood. Exactly what it says, kids. Not for kids.

www.johnjudy.net

Dirda schooled on Mad love

See "SINS OF OMISSION," Washington Post Book World Sunday, January 13, 2008; Page BW14 to read a letter from a girl (!) who liked (!) Mad!

Zadzooks on George Perez and Swamp Thing dvds

Joseph Szadkowski reviews both a Perez documentary and the tv version of the Swamp Thing in in "'Creator' disc disappoints; Swamp Thing's star turn," Washington Times January 12, 2008.

Feb 7-17: Anime and manga at Kennedy Center

From their website:
Manga & Anime

Manga is a sequential narrative Japanese comic. Anime is a unique animation style developed in Japan. Both are now internationally recognized forms of literary and visual art. Manga is one of the fastest growing segments of U.S. books—and anime films have gained a rapidly expanding fan base across the nation.

Manga Café and Reading Lounge

Enjoy a bite to eat while reading VIZ Media mangas, watching anime trailers, and viewing vintage robot toys. Manga author Robin Nishi will capture festival happenings in a daily drawing and conduct a free workshop.

* Feb 7 - 17, 2008
* South Gallery

Genius Party Premieres

Don't miss this unprecedented series of original films by Japan's top anime talents, who were each selected by Director and Genius Party Executive Producer Eiko Tanaka to create their dream projects.

* Feb 15 - 16, 2008
* Family Theater
* $25.00

Marathon of Anime Premieres

Don't miss this screening marathon featuring three new anime features: 5 Centimeters Per Second, The Piano Forest, and Appleseed: Ex Machina.

* Feb 17, 2008
* Family Theater
* $15.00

OT: new poetry book by Terri Witek

My friend Terri Witek has a new poetry book out, The Shipwreck Dress, from her publisher in Alexandria. Her previous book Fools and Crows is still available too. Here's the blurbs from the publisher's website (you can order from there, via mail):


FOOLS AND CROWS
TERRI WITEK
$14.95, 79 pages
ISBN 0-914061-94-1
Terri Witek's Fools and Crows takes the ancient discipline of ekphrasis—a poet's description of a work of art-to a new level of intensity. In her explorations of Renaissance paintings, of Roman Catholic holy cards, of the Vision of Our Lady of Fatima, the poet locates the matter and spirit of the human condition, our desires to connect, to worship, to elude death. These lyric unveilings and expositions recall the beautiful exactitudes of Marianne Moore's poetry. They are the elucidations of a luminous intelligence, shadowed by grief and joy. —Mark Jarman

THE SHIPWRECK DRESS
TERRI WITEK
paperback, $14.95, 96 pages
ISBN 1-932535-17-4
About Terri Witek’s third volume of poetry Molly Peacock said, “With the brilliant certainty of her intuition, Terri Witek spins the silken sculptures of her new collection, The Shipwreck Dress. I never thought of the soul as needing something to wear, but Witek has created a kind of soul-clothing in these miraculous poems. Internal, instinctive, and yet knowingly crafted, every poem renews another aspect of her idea that the outer wrappings we know as clothing are really inner structures. As Witek sensuously explores the most ancient connections between text and textile, she turns her poems into stunning, subtle word-kimonos. Vivid with color, deeply sensuous, and sharply intelligent, The Shipwreck Dress shows Terri Witek at the height of her powers.” The cover features art by Cyriaco Lopes.


The book's also available from Amazon.

Saturday, January 12, 2008

Comic strip collections reviewed in Sunday's Post

See "Extra, Extra: Vintage Strips Rise Again," Reviewed by Dougas Wolk, Washington Post Book World Sunday, January 13, 2008; BW08.

Unfortunately, no Faustian bargain at City Paper

From the paper's letters page:
Washington City Paper (January 11, 2008): 9
Missing in Action


Where is “Lulu Eightball”? I LOVE “Lulu Eightball”!! Where’s “The City” by Derf? Where the hell is the LETTERS SECTION?!?!?! You guys have removed every reason I read the City Paper. What the f-ck are you DOING?!?!?

Jim Collins
Bethesda, Md.

Editor’s Note: Due to budget cuts, Washington City Paper has dropped most of its comics, and a new accelerated deadline schedule makes it difficult for some theaters to report in time for the print edition. Up-to-the-minute showtimes are always available on our Web site at washingtoncitypaper.com/showtimes.


So to recap - the paper is bought by new owners. The immediately trim the physical size of the paper. Then they cut out so much money that long-standing illustrators are laid off. Then they cut out the comics and the movie listings. Why exactly did they buy the paper? To make it fail?

Friday, January 11, 2008

Still pointing out things in the Post

Richard "Cul de Sac Cartoonist" Thompson points out that Tom the Dancing Bug is missing from the Weekend section. Bah.

But Ann Telnaes has another animated editorial cartoon, The Legacy Tour, on the website.

2007 COMICS IN THE REAR-VIEW by John Judy

2007 COMICS IN THE REAR-VIEW
or “What Stood Out to One Guy in Santa Monica”
by John Judy, a.k.a. One Guy

For all the X-overs, weekly let-downs, and assorted temptations to kick this three-dollar a hit habit there was some amazingly good stuff out last year. I’m sure I’ll miss a few but here’s what I remember with gratitude and awe:

1. SCALPED by Jason Aaron and R.M. Guera. This was the Discovery of 2007 for me. A hard-boiled, crime-noir graphic novel set in the squalor of a fictional Indian reservation, SCALPED follows the story of Special Agent Dash Bad Horse as he returns to the home he’s spent his life trying to escape. Uncomfortable reunions ensue. The first trade collection, INDIAN COUNTRY, came out in August and the next one, CASINO BOOGIE, is in the pipe for February. Absolutely not for kids, but recommended reading for everyone else.

2. ALL-STAR SUPERMAN by Grant Morrison and Frank Quitely. A shamelessly out-of-continuity title that got the magic of Krypton’s last son and rendered it in style. The ALL-STAR titles both take forever to come out but this one was always worth the wait.

3. WARREN ELLIS, the guy whose words makes Comet Cleanser feel like aloe lotion. He was all over the map but managed to land spot-on with titles as diverse as NEWUNIVERSAL, BLACK GAS, WOLFSKIN, BLACK SUMMER, DOKTOR SLEEPLESS, THUNDERBOLTS, FELL, CRECY, and the much lamented NEXTWAVE: AGENTS OF H.A.T.E. Oh, and he wrote a little novel, too: “Crooked Little Vein.” He’s mentioned it once or twice on that internet thingy the kids keep talking about.

4. JUSTICE SOCIETY OF AMERICA by Geoff Johns and Dale Eaglesham. Ever since James Robinson revived Starman a few years back, DC Comics has done pretty well by their golden-age characters. Not as well as they could, but certainly a lot better than they’ve done for the guys who created these characters. But that’s another article.

5. GARTH ENNIS, who can still chill your blood and make you laugh in the same panel. Ennis turned out CHRONICLES OF WORMWOOD, 303, PUNISHER, BARRACUDA MAX, DAN DARE, and, after some trouble with original publisher DC, the darker than dark BOYS series for Dynamite Entertainment.

6. WELCOME TO TRANQUILITY by Gail Simone and Neil Googe. Imagine a Mayberry or Bedford Falls full of super-heroes. Or maybe even Thornton Wilder’s “Our Town” with capes. Clever, well-drawn stuff.

7. DARWYN COOKE, the brilliant writer-artist who gave us DC NEW FRONTIER also took up the reins of DC’s re-launch of THE SPIRIT. Sadly, he’s moving on from that title. Happily, it’s being taken over by Sergio Aragones and Mark Evanier.

8. CRIMINAL by Ed Brubaker and Sean Phillips. Lovers of noir haven’t had it this good at the candy store since the Fat Man was thin. With two story-arcs under their belts and the promise of more to come this one is appointment reading every issue.

9. JOSS WHEDON, who brought back BUFFY and ANGEL for extra seasons in comic book form. This on top of scripting ASTONISHING X-MEN and RUNAWAYS. He also does some kind of work involving pictures that move, but who cares about such lesser mediums?

10. REGINALD HUDLIN, who takes time from being President of Entertainment for BET to write some of the best Black Panther stories ever. He even got T’Challa married to the X-Men’s Storm. This is the Panther who belongs on the big screen.

11. IMMORTAL IRON FIST by Ed Brubaker, Matt Fraction, and David Aja. A martial arts comic that doesn’t suck and looks great! Truly we owe them our gratitude!

12. ASTRO CITY: THE DARK AGE by Kurt Busiek and Brent Anderson. Another one worth the long waits between issues, ASTRO CITY is a universe all its own, pretending to be a superhero comic while leaving us pondering its meaning long after we’ve turned the last colorful page. It’s not surprising that “Dark Age” is the arc coming out during the last years of the Bush regime.

13. DARK TOWER THE GUNSLINGER BORN by Peter David and Jae Lee. If you’d told me in 2006 that one of next year’s biggest sellers would be an adaptation of one Stephen King’s most intricate, long-running serial epics… Goes to show you how much I know. Sequel due in 08!

14. SHAZAM: MONSTER SOCIETY OF EVIL written and drawn by Jeff Smith. The creator of “Bone” knocked one out of the park in another out-of-continuity delight. My three-year old made me read at least one issue per night to him for most of 2007. I didn’t mind a bit.

15. THE EC ARCHIVES hardcover series including TALES FROM THE CRYPT, TWO-FISTED TALES, WEIRD SCIENCE, SHOCK SUSPENSTORIES, and VAULT OF HORROR. They’re up to two volumes on some of these and I search the sofa cushions with a renewed sense of Mission every time. Not cheap. Worth every penny.

16. Y THE LAST MAN by Brian K. Vaughan and Pia Guerra. Coming to an end too soon! This must be a movie. Better yet, an HBO series. One more reason for the producers to settle the strike and pay up already!

17. THE BRAVE AND THE BOLD by Mark Waid and George Perez. Two great creators who love the Silver-Age heroes and know how to do them right.

18. DAN SLOTT the writer behind some of the smartest, funniest super-hero comics in a long time. Following Peter David’s lead of taking heroes who have fallen into Second-String Country, Slott took SHE-HULK to a creative pinnacle while simultaneously giving us new takes on the GREAT LAKES AVENGERS and the various members of the AVENGERS INITIATIVE. Slott is a writer whose name always warrants a look.

19. ACTION PHILOSOPHERS by Ryan Dunlavey and Fred Van Lente. A great series of strips that should have the makers of college Cliffs Notes looking over their shoulders. Sadly AP is no longer an on-going title, but it’s being replaced in 08 by ACTION PRESIDENTS! If you liked the Philosophy you’ll love the History!

20. Did I mention BRIAN K. VAUGHAN already? The creator of RUNAWAYS, EX MACHINA, PRIDE OF BAGHDAD, and Y THE LAST MAN continued out-doing himself with each of his titles being distinct from each other in focus and tone. Their unifying quality was excellence.

21. Writer/Artist KYLE BAKER for the historical drama NAT TURNER and the current dark satire SPECIAL FORCES.

22. FRANK MILLER for reminding us that nobody’s perfect.

23. BOOKS WITH PICTURES by a spunky young talent named Sina Grace. Okay, seriously, I know Sina and he’s written and drawn an admirable first effort set in an environment most of us know well: a comic book store full of quirky employees. It’s about more than that and if “BwP” is an indicator young Mr. Grace will have much more to say in his career to come.

24. ROBERT KIRKMAN, who writes the best zombie comics around. From the morbidly hilarious MARVEL ZOMBIES 1&2 to his own WALKING DEAD series, Kirkman takes characterization seriously and keeps the surprises coming. He’s also doing some fine non-zombie work on his latest creation THE ASTONISHING WOLF-MAN over at Image.

25. MATT WAGNER and his return to his signature character, the amoral crime-boss/novelist GRENDEL in the new mini BEHOLD THE DEVIL.

26. GEOFF JOHNS, who in addition to the latest JSA book is also turning in amazing work on a re-vitalized BOOSTER GOLD and GREEN LANTERN. GL is turning into a great space opera/police procedural mix and BOOSTER has redeemed the time-travel motif in comics. Who’d have thunk it?

27. Believe it or not, a couple of WOLVERINE stories proved it was still possible to write the character well. WOLVERINE #56 was a fill-in by Jason “Scalped” Aaron and Howard Chaykin and ANNUAL #1 was an ambitious setting of a Logan story to the tune of T.S. Eliot’s “Love Song of J. Alfred Prufrock” written by Greg Hurwitz and illustrated by Marcelo Frusin. Just goes to show you that occasionally there are diamonds hidden in the coal.

28. HARVEY CLASSICS, a couple of trade collections of the iconic Harvey characters CASPER THE FRIENDLY GHOST and RICHIE RICH. Great for all ages and very fun.

29. THE QUESTION by Dennis O’Neil and Denys Cowan being collected in trade. This thoughtful, noir, martial arts adventure series had almost nothing in common with Steve Ditko’s original concept but some names and the “power” of having a faceless mask, but it was great reading back in the eighties and still holds up today.

30. GREG RUCKA for writing, among other things, THE CRIME BIBLE: THE FIVE LESSONS OF BLOOD, certainly one of the best names ever for a comic book. The fact that the book lives up to the title is just that much more pleasing on every level. It wouldn’t surprise me if a few crazies out there have already started worshiping Rucka as a Prophet of a Criminal God. You heard it here first.

31. ALAN MOORE for not compromising his madness in the latest “LEAGUE OF EXTRODINARY GENTLEMEN: THE BLACK DOSSIER.” Moore falls into the same category as his fellow eighties icon Frank Miller in that his genius requires you to examine even the work that you find lacking the power of his earlier milestones. (I still wish he’d get his dosages right, though.)

32. NORTHLANDERS by Brian Wood and Davis Gianfelice. The epic of Prince Sven, the prodigal Viking returned to claim his inheritance in the 10th century. This is shaping up to be the next great Vertigo series from the creator of DMZ.

33. FANTAGRAPHICS for their high-quality hardcover reprints of classic strips like PEANUTS and POPEYE as well as their collections of IVAN BRUNETTI, JACK COLE, ROBERT CRUMB, and many others.

34. JAMES STURM for his spare but moving stories set in America’s ever-present past. 2007 saw the publication of JAMES STURM’S AMERICA: GOD, GOLD, AND GOLEMS and SATCHEL PAIGE: STRIKING OUT JIM CROW.

2008 has a tough act to follow.

www.johnjudy.net

I read the Post and point things out to you

While not up to the NY Times Arts section today (5 comic art bits), the Post had reviews of an animated movie, a theatrical play based on animation, and an animated tv show's DVD.

See "VeggieTales Crew Sails In Tasteful Pirate Story," by John Anderson, Washington Post, Friday, January 11, 2008; C06. To be honest, I'm partial to Veggie Tales although you'd be hard pressed to find someone less receptive to the 'faith' message of the earlier cartoons. They have a redeeming feature though. They're funny.

Then, along with everyone else, Disney's latest attempt to keep Times Square cleaned up is slapped around in "'Little Mermaid': On Broadway, Just A Fish Out of Water," by Peter Marks, Washington Post Staff Writer Friday, January 11, 2008; C01.

Finally Curt Fields has a review of a cartoon that I don't care for,
"Family Guy: A Big Tremor in the Force,"
Washington Post Friday, January 11, 2008; Page WE32.

Comics Research Bibliography update January 11, 2008 citations

Lots of Ratatouille, the Washington Times's Szadkowski and other bits and pieces.

Rhode, Michael and Manfred Vogel. 2007.
Film and TV Adaptations of Comics 2007 edition.
Arlington, VA: Michael Rhode through Lulu.com

Fields, Curt. 2008.
Family Guy: A Big Tremor in the Force.
Washington Post (January 11): WE32.
Online at http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2008/01/10/AR2008011001550.html

Astor, Dave. 2007.
'Nancy' Comic Character Stars in You Tube Video.
E&P Online (November 27):
http://www.editorandpublisher.com/eandp/departments/syndicates/article_display.j\
sp?vnu_content_id=1003677975

Astor, Dave. 2008.
Online Photo Contest Judges Include 'Mutts' Cartoonist.
E and P Online (January 8):
http://www.editorandpublisher.com/eandp/departments/syndicates/article_display.jsp?vnu_content_id=1003693872

Astor, Dave. 2008.
Black Cartoonists Plan Feb. 10 Comics-Page Action.
E and P Online (January 8): http://www.editorandpublisher.com/eandp/news/article_display.jsp?vnu_content_id=1003694006

Astor, Dave. 2008.
New Blog From 'Pooch Cafe' Cartoonist.
E and P Online (January 8):
http://www.editorandpublisher.com/eandp/departments/syndicates/article_display.jsp?vnu_content_id=1003694062

Astor, Dave. 2008.
Raleigh 'News & Observer' to Run More Comics.
E and P Online (January 8):
http://www.editorandpublisher.com/eandp/departments/syndicates/article_display.jsp?vnu_content_id=1003694072

Astor, Dave. 2008.
Standup Comedy Show for 'Bizarro' Cartoonist.
E and P Online (January 8):
http://www.editorandpublisher.com/eandp/departments/syndicates/article_display.jsp?vnu_content_id=1003694046

Astor, Dave. 2008.
'Non Sequitur' Comics Satirizing Schulz Book Donated to Schulz Museum.
E and P Online (January 7):
http://www.editorandpublisher.com/eandp/departments/syndicates/article_display.jsp?vnu_content_id=1003693415

Astor, Dave. 2008.
Milestone for Long-Running 'Prince Valiant' Comic.
E and P Online (January 7):
http://www.editorandpublisher.com/eandp/departments/syndicates/article_display.jsp?vnu_content_id=1003692420

Astor, Dave. 2008.
One Cartoon Blogger Interviews Another.
E and P Online (January 7):
http://www.editorandpublisher.com/eandp/departments/syndicates/article_display.jsp?vnu_content_id=1003692524

Astor, Dave. 2008.
A Collection of Copley Candidate Caricatures -- in Color.
E and P Online (January 7):
http://www.editorandpublisher.com/eandp/departments/syndicates/article_display.jsp?vnu_content_id=1003693374

Astor, Dave. 2008.
Two 'My Cage' Comic Fan Contests Announced.
E and P Online (January 7):
http://www.editorandpublisher.com/eandp/departments/syndicates/article_display.jsp?vnu_content_id=1003693361

Astor, Dave. 2008.
Book Lists Film and TV Productions Inspired By Comics.
E and P Online (January 7): http://www.editorandpublisher.com/eandp/departments/syndicates/article_display.jsp?vnu_content_id=1003693308

Astor, Dave. 2008.
Cartoonist Henry Payne Is Writing As Well As Drawing.
E and P Online (January 7):
http://www.editorandpublisher.com/eandp/departments/syndicates/article_display.jsp?vnu_content_id=1003693302

Axmaker, Sean. 2007.
'Ratatouille': Pixar serves up another winner by turning a rat loose in a Parisian restaurant.
Seattle Post-Intelligencer (June 28).
Online at http://seattlepi.nwsource.com/movies/321659_ratatouille29q.html

Barlow, Helen. 2007.
Rat in the hat [Ratatouille].
Sydney Morning Herald (August 24).
Online at http://www.smh.com.au/news/film/rat-in-the-hat/2007/08/23/1187462404467.html

Berardinelli, James. 2007.
Ratatouille.
Reel Views (June 29): http://www.reelviews.net/movies/r/ratatouille.html

Boston Herald. 2007.
No Kidding! A Cartoon for Grown-Ups [‘Ratatouille’].
Red Orbit (June 19): http://www.redorbit.com/news/technology/973792/no_kidding_a_cartoon_for_grownups/index.html?source=r_technology

Castellanos, Melissa. 2007.
Ratatouille The Video Game; Disney Pixar and Heavy Iron Studios capture the culinary adventure of the summer movie.
CBS Interactive (April 24): http://www.cbsnews.com/stories/2007/04/24/tech/gamecore/main2724420.shtml

Cieply, Michael. 2007.
It’s Not a Sequel, but It Might Seem Like One After the Ads [Pixar Animation Studios ‘Ratatouille’].
New York Times (April 24).
Online at http://www.nytimes.com/2007/04/24/movies/24orig.html

Collura, Scott and Eric Moro. 2007.
Edit Bay Visit: Ratatouille; IGN checks in with writer-director Brad Bird for a preview of his
latest Pixar feature.
IGN (April 25): http://movies.ign.com/articles/783/783392p1.html

Corliss, Richard. 2007.
Why Pixar Is Better: The studio that invented CGI stays on top with the tasty Ratatouille.
Time (June 18).
Online at http://www.time.com/time/magazine/article/0,9171,1630548,00.html

Foundas, Scott. 2007.
Ratatouille: Brad Bird and Pixar Earn Their Michelin Stars.
Seattle Weekly (June 27).
Online at http://www.seattleweekly.com/2007-06-27/film/ratatouille-brad-bird-and-pixar-earn-their-michelin-stars.php

Germain, David. 2007.
Brad Bird puts the rat in 'Ratatouille'.
Associated Press (June 20).
Online at http://www.kuwaittimes.net/read_news.php?newsid=MjA2MDgxNDM2OQ==

Germain, David. 2007.
Pixar perfectionists cook `Ratatouille'.
Associated Press (June 26): http://news.yahoo.com/s/ap/20070626/ap_on_en_mo/film_perfect_pixar_2

Gleiberman, Owen. 2007.
Ratatouille (2007).
EW.com (June 20): http://www.ew.com/ew/article/0,,20043117,00.html

Goodman, Dean. 2007.
"Ratatouille" cooks up lukewarm box office win.
Reuters (July 1): http://news.yahoo.com/s/nm/20070701/film_nm/boxoffice_dc_6

Hartlaub, Peter. 2007.
‘Ratatouille’ is a feast for the eyes.
San Francisco Chronicle (June 28): E1
Online at http://www.sfgate.com/cgi-bin/article.cgi?f=/c/a/2007/06/28/DDGLOQG6NI48.DTLandtype=movies

Honeycutt, Kirk. 2007.
Pixar's ‘Ratatouille’ a tasty treat.
Hollywood Reporter (June 26): http://news.yahoo.com/s/nm/20070626/en_nm/film_ratatouille_dc_2

Hotwani, Vikas. 2007.
Animation goes to the rats! [‘Ratatouille'].
DNAIndia (May 28): http://www.dnaindia.com/report.asp?NewsID=1099635

Levin, Josh. 2007.
Brad Bird, Animation Auteur; How the director of Ratatouille became the Stanley Kubrick of animation.
Slate (June 28): http://www.slate.com/id/2169280/

Levine, David. 2007.
Ratatouille.
filmcritic.com (June 29): http://www.filmcritic.com/misc/emporium.nsf/reviews/Ratatouille

Locke, Michelle. 2007.
How a cartoon rat learned to cook; Top chef worked with animators [Ratatouille].
Associated Press (July 11): http://www.denverpost.com/ci_6336799?source=rss

Lumenick, Lou. 2007.
Gratifying: Latest Pixar Romp Takes The Cheese [Ratatouille].
New York Post (June 29).
Online at http://www.nypost.com/seven/06292007/entertainment/movies/gratifying_movies_lou_lumenick.htm

Morris, Wesley. 2007.
Cheese wiz: Pixar's 'Ratatouille' serves up magic with its touching tale of a rodent chef.
Boston Globe (June 29).
Online at http://www.boston.com/movies/display?display=movieandid=8933

Mountz, Dezhda. 2007.
Ratatouille.
E! Online (June): http://www.eonline.com/movies/e_reviews/index.jsp?uuid=3f652066-9e3b-4edf-85c1-1ace984763d9

Phillips, Michael. 2007.
Movie review: 'Ratatouille'.
Chicago Tribune (June 29).
Online at http://metromix.chicagotribune.com/movies/mmx-070629-movies-review-ratatouille,0,3953295.story?coll=mmx-movies_top_heds

Puig, Claudia. 2007.
Special of the day: Remy's 'Ratatouille'.
USA Today (June 28).
Online at http://www.usatoday.com/life/movies/reviews/2007-06-28-ratatouille-review_N.htm

Rhodes, Joe. 2007.
A Nerd Gone Wild Gives Voice to His Inner Rat [Patton Oswalt in Pixar's ‘Ratatouille’].
New York Times (June 24)

Starker, Melissa. 2007.
Cartoon Cooking [Ratatouille].
Columbus Alive (July 5): http://www.columbusalive.com/?sec=filmandstory=alive/2007/0705/f-cartoon.html

Thomson, Desson. 2007.
Hollywood and Indie Offerings [Ratatouille].
Washington Post (June 29).
Online at http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2007/06/28/AR2007062802484.html

Thomson, Desson. 2007.
'Ratatouille': A Classic Recipe.
Washington Post (June 29): C1

Travers, Peter. 2007.
Ratatouille.
Rolling Stone.com (June 25): http://www.rollingstone.com/reviews/movie/15137663/review/15221337/ratatouille

Tse, Derek. 2007.
This rat takes the cheese; We watch all of the latest trailers and see if they'll spoil the movie for you [Ratatouille].
Toronto Star (June 9).
Online at http://www.thestar.com/entertainment/article/222884

Turan, Kenneth. 2007.
'Ratatouille': The film is audacious and its unlikely hero is hard to resist.
Los Angeles Times (June 29).
Online at http://www.latimes.com/entertainment/news/movies/cl-et-ratatouille29jun29,0,3880862.story?coll=la-home-middleright

Unknown. 2007.
Rat tale 'Ratatouille' leads animation field with 13 nominations.
Canadian Press (December 3): http://canadianpress.google.com/article/ALeqM5gt_DfbhoDO8XCQb8Mkc9fL8-YA0Q

Unknown. 2007.
Ratatouille sparks pet rat rage.
ANI (October 28): http://in.news.yahoo.com/071028/139/6migy.html

Whipp, Glenn. 2007.
'Ratatouille' has its own French accent.
U-Entertainment (April 28): http://www.u-entertainment.com/ci_5775951?source=rss

Whitty, Stephen. 2007.
French-fried cartoon fun from Disney: There's nothing Mickey Mouse about the recipe for 'Ratatouille'
Newark Star-Ledger (June 29).
Online at http://www.nj.com/entertainment/ledger/index.ssf?/base/entertainment-1/1183091971244080.xmlandcoll=1

Emad, Mitra C. 2006. Reading Wonder Woman's Body: Mythologies of Gender and Nation. Journal of Popular Culture 39 (6; December): 954-984

Gallardo, Ximena. 2005. Wonder Women: Feminisms and Superheroes [book review]. Journal of Popular Culture 38 (6; November): 1109-1111

Hilton, Laura. 2006. Men of Tomorrow: Geeks, Gangsters and the Birth of the Comic Book [book review]. Journal of Popular Culture 39 (6; December): 1096-1097

Hoppenstand, Gary. 2006. Not Your Parents' Comics, or Maybe They Are [editorial]. Journal of Popular Culture 39 (4; August): 521-522

Hughes, Jamie A. 2006. Who Watches the Watchmen?: Ideology and Real World Superheroes. Journal of Popular Culture 39 (4; August): 546-557

Smith, Robert W. 2005. Planet Simpson: How a Cartoon Masterpiece Defined a Generation [book review]. Journal of Popular Culture 38 (6; November): 1128-1130

Astor, Dave. 2007.
Tribune Media Services Sued in 'Shoe' Comic Contract Dispute.
E and P Online (November 30): http://www.editorandpublisher.com/eandp/news/article_display.jsp?vnu_content_id=1003679879

Berge, Paul / QSyndicate. 2006.
2006 The Year in Cartoons [gay editorial cartoons].
Washington Blade (December 29): 23-24

Chang, Elizabeth. 2007.
Making it: A bartender feels a rush of inspiration [computer animation].
Washington Post Magazine (October 28): 9

Chao, Loretta / Wall Street Journal. 2007.
In China, Motorola turns to rabbit as bait; Animated character helps tap tech-savvy youth market in rollout of smartphone.
Washington Post (December 27): D8

Cherkis, Jason et. al. 2007.
And on the first day… [illustrated by Brian Ralph].
Washington City Paper (August 31)

Ervolino, Bill. 2007.
Gallery of superheroes [Montclair Art Museum ‘Reflecting Culture’ exhibit].
Bergen Record (July 13)

Ervolino, Bill. 2007.
Creating comics was his strong suit [Roy Thomas interview].
Bergen Record (July 13)

Fields, Curt. 2007.
Young critics sound off on four DVD sets [animation].
Washington Post (October 12)

Kohanik, Eric / CanWest News Service. 2008.
Painkiller Jane comic-book heroine.
Saskatoon Star-Phoenix (January 5).
online at http://www.canada.com/saskatoonstarphoenix/news/weekend_extra/story.html?id=ca8e4c40-4673-4a23-b3b4-babfda8bf1c0

Khoury, George. 2007.
Dale Keown Interview Excerpt From Image Comics: The Road To Independence.
Comicon's The Pulse (June 14): http://www.comicon.com/cgi-bin/ultimatebb.cgi?ubb=get_topic;f=36;t=006361

Mauldin, Bill. 1953.
Bill Mauldin in Korea: a Book Length Feature.
Man's Day (March): 87-97

McArdle, Sean. 2006.
Small Press Expo.
Washington City Paper (October 13)

Olszewski, Tricia. 2007.
They’re with the brand: The Simpsons and Jason Bourne extend their franchises without wrecking them.
Washington City Paper (August 3): 32

Pines, Ned L.(ed.). 1948.
Cartoon Fun [gag cartoon collection].
New York: Popular Library

Spurgeon, Tom. 2008.
CR Holiday Interview #15: Alan Gardner on the Year in Newspaper Strips and Editorial Cartooning.
Comics Reporter (January 7):
http://www.comicsreporter.com/index.php/cr_holiday_interview_19/

Spurgeon, Tom. 2008.
CR Holiday Interview #14: Sean T. Collins on The Year In Mainstream Comics.
Comics Reporter (January 7):
http://www.comicsreporter.com/index.php/cr_holiday_interview_2_graeme_mcmillan_on_the_year_in_mainstream_comics/

Stevenson, James. 2007.
Lost and Found New York: Croton Dam.
New York Times (October 27)

Szadkowski, Joseph. 2007.
Mix of tradition, fantasy comics pays off for artist [Jeff Smith].
Washington Times (June 16).
Online at http://www.washingtontimes.com/entertainment/20070615-091422-5597r.htm

Szadkowski, Joseph. 2006.
Snake's looking for data but gets a blast of action [videogames and comic books]
Washington Times (April 15)

Szadkowski, Joseph. 2006.
One Piece takes players on adventure with pirates [videogame based on Japanese manga and anime by Eiichiro Oda].
Washington Times (October 21).
online at http://www.washingtontimes.com/functions/print.php?StoryID=20061020-084920-4295r

Szadkowski, Joseph. 2006.
Dragon Ball Z's Fighters do battle with a monster.
Washington Times (March 18)

Szadkowski, Joseph. 2007.
Convoluted plot spoils Man of Steel's comeback [Superman Returns videogame].
Washington Times (January 20).
Online at http://www.washingtontimes.com/entertainment/20070119-090217-6513r.htm

Szadkowski, Joseph. 2007.
Films, comic products offer plenty of choices [Toy Fair].
Washington Times (March 3).
Online at http://www.washingtontimes.com/functions/print.php?StoryID=20070303-123011-4505r.htm

Szadkowski, Joseph. 2007.
Toy fair features array of multimedia creations.
Washington Times (February 24).
Online at http://www.washingtontimes.com/entertainment/20070223-084103-9688r.htm

Szadkowski, Joseph. 2007.
How Bernie Wrightson learned to love monsters.
Washington Times (February 17).
Online at http://www.washingtontimes.com/entertainment/20070216-085724-6348r.htm

Szadkowski, Joseph. 2007.
'Iron Man' lacks mettle [Hellboy, Teen Titans animation].
Washington Times (February 10).
Online at http://www.washingtontimes.com/entertainment/20070209-090619-1667r.htm

Szadkowski, Joseph. 2007.
Predator, Darth Maul are intricate models of terror [Star Wars toys].
Washington Times (February 3).
Online at http://www.washingtontimes.com/entertainment/20070202-090714-9104r.htm

Szadkowski, Joseph. 2007.
Spider-Man, Batman face police states of the future.
Washington Times (January 27).
Online at http://www.washingtontimes.com/entertainment/20070126-090037-7518r.htm

Szadkowski, Joseph. 2007.
Spider-Man battles foes on many toy land fronts.
Washington Times (May 5).
Online at http://www.washingtontimes.com/entertainment/20070504-085837-9647r.htm

Szadkowski, Joseph. 2007.
Spider-Man's living suit retold for young readers.
Washington Times (April 28).
Online at http://www.washingtontimes.com/entertainment/20070427-094509-2896r.htm

Szadkowski, Joseph. 2007.
It's only game of solitaire as turtles go on missions [Marvel Trading Card Game].
Washington Times (April 21).
Online at http://www.washingtontimes.com/entertainment/20070420-083723-8759r.htm

Szadkowski, Joseph. 2007.
Darth Sidious is perfect Star Wars creature [toys].
Washington Times September 1).
Online at http://www.washingtontimes.com/article/20070901/ENTERTAINMENT/109010016/1007/entertainment

Szadkowski, Joseph. 2007.
Doctor Strange meets a dreaded archenemy ['The Secrets of Isis: The Complete Series'].
Washington Times (August 18).
Online at http://www.washingtontimes.com/article/20070818/ENTERTAINMENT/108180024/1007

Szadkowski, Joseph. 2007.
Morphing Megatron has plan to rule the universe.
Washington Times (July 7).
Online at http://www.washingtontimes.com/article/20070707/ENTERTAINMENT/107070014/1007/entertainment

Szadkowski, Joseph. 2007.
'Fantastic Four' DVD exonerated by extras.
Washington Times (June 30).
Online at http://www.washingtontimes.com/article/20070630/ENTERTAINMENT/106300014/1007

Szadkowski, Joseph. 2007.
Extra credit: The Powerpuff Girls: The Complete First Season, Collector's Series.
Washington Times.com (June 28): http://video1.washingtontimes.com/zadzooks/

Szadkowski, Joseph. 2007.
Bone creator sees skies sunny ahead for industry [Jeff Smith].
Washington Times (June 23).
Online at http://www.washingtontimes.com/article/20070623/ENTERTAINMENT/106230014/1007

Szadkowski, Joseph. 2003.
A violent, evocative romp from brain behind Spawn.
Washington Times (December 27)

Szadkowski, Joseph. 2007.
Hall of Justice arrives at Six Flags' Gotham City [DC comics amusement park ride].
Washington Times (June 9).
Online at
http://www.washingtontimes.com/entertainment/20070608-103244-6648r.htm

Szadkowski, Joseph. 2006.
'Justice League' on DVD; 'King Kong' weak on extras.
Washington Times (April 8)

Szadkowski, Joseph. 2006.
Bizarro issues challenge to archrival, Man of Steel.
Washington Times (April 1)

Szadkowski, Joseph. 2007.
With push of a button, Mysterio's face changes.
Washington Times (April 7).
Online at http://www.washingtontimes.com/entertainment/20070406-103239-6265r.htm

Szadkowski, Joseph. 2007.
G.I. Joe American Hero teams up three new sets.
Washington Times (December 1).
Online at http://www.washingtontimes.com/article/20071201/ENTERTAINMENT/112010015/-1/RSS_ENTERTAINMENT

Szadkowski, Joseph. 2007.
Spooky comic books bring Halloween chills.
Washington Times (October 27).
Online at http://www.washingtontimes.com/article/20071027/ENTERTAINMENT/110270011/1007

Szadkowski, Joseph. 2007.
HD enhances 'Heroes'; 'RoboCop' director's cut.
Washington Times (September 8).
Online at http://washingtontimes.com/article/20070908/ENTERTAINMENT/109080044/1007

Szadkowski, Joseph. 2007.
Earth's top hero, Goku, takes action at a low price.
Washington Times (March 17).
Online at http://www.washingtontimes.com/entertainment/20070316-090551-4598r.htm

Szadkowski, Joseph. 2007.
Samurai warriors slash and smash their enemy ['Spider-Man 2.1'].
Washington Times (April 14).
Online at http://www.washingtontimes.com/entertainment/20070414-122732-5465r.htm

Szadkowski, Joseph. 2007.
Ghost Rider just burning to prevent Armageddon [300: March to Glory videogames].
Washington Times (March 10).
Online at http://www.washingtontimes.com/entertainment/20070309-085203-3017r.htm

Szadkowski, Joseph. 2007.
One shot alters universe; 'Prophecy' series compiled.
Washington Times (May 26).
Online at http://www.washingtontimes.com/entertainment/20070525-090244-7830r.htm

Szadkowski, Joseph. 2007.
Spider-Man 3 figure set easy to assemble, clobber.
Washington Times (March 31).
Online at http://www.washingtontimes.com/entertainment/20070330-092431-7558r.htm

Szadkowski, Joseph. 2007.
Elephantmen are free, but watched by humans.
Washington Times (March 24).
Online at http://www.washingtontimes.com/entertainment/20070323-085419-3633r.htm

Szadkowski, Joseph. 2007.
Spidey faces the dark side.
Washington Times (May 19).
Online at http://www.washingtontimes.com/entertainment/20070518-084728-9480r.htm

Szadkowski, Joseph. 2007.
Strong thirst for more after 'Trinity Blood' DVD.
Washington Times (May 12).
Online at http://www.washingtontimes.com/entertainment/20070511-084957-8730r.htm

Szadkowski, Joseph. 2007.
Animated ninja figures learn all about warrior art [Naruto: Uncut Boxed Set, Simpsons].
Washington Times (January 13).
Online at http://washingtontimes.com/entertainment/20070112-105906-1258r.htm

Szadkowski, Joseph. 2007.
Killer mutant from Japan arrives on American soil [Medicom Toy, Marvel Comics].
Washington Times (January 6).
Online at http://www.washingtontimes.com/entertainment/20070105-090111-3798r.htm

Szadkowski, Joseph. 2006.
Batman, Spirit in Hawaii; Spider-Girl back in action.
Washington Times (December 30).
Online at http://www.washingtontimes.com/entertainment/20061229-092545-5077r.htm

Szadkowski, Joseph. 2006.
Trivia tests, side missions part of search for villains [videogames].
Washington Times (December 23).
Online at http://www.washingtontimes.com/entertainment/20061222-093839-6972r.htm

Szadkowski, Joseph. 2006.
Scissorhands inventor a detailed, dapper figure.
Washington Times (November 4).
Online at http://www.washingtontimes.com/entertainment/20061103-090307-9495r.htm

Szadkowski, Joseph. 2006.
Graphic-novel adaptation ignores its true 'History'
Washington Times (March 11).

Szadkowski, Joseph. 2006.
'Phantom' artist's work recalls childhood memories [Graham Nolan].
Washington Times (February 18).
Online at http://washingtontimes.com/functions/print.php?StoryID=20060217-092131-4835r

Szadkowski, Joseph. 2006.
Lego builds its inventory of Batman-related figures
Washington Times (February 25)

Szadkowski, Joseph. 2006.
Toy fair figures can tickle the interest of action fans.
Washington Times (March 4)

Szadkowski, Joseph. 2005.
Spirit of the season is spoiled by holiday chaos.
Washington Times (December 31)

Szadkowski, Joseph. 2005.
Fantastic Four Blasters help opponents see light.
Washington Times (December 17)

Szadkowski, Joseph. 2006.
Quality figure of Thanos goes easy on the budget.
Washington Times (January 7).

Szadkowski, Joseph. 2005.
Memorable 'Sin City,' dismal 'Fantastic Four' [movies].
Washington Times (December 24)

Szadkowski, Joseph. 2006.
Original TV 'Superman' 2nd season now on DVD.
Washington Times (January 14)

Szadkowski, Joseph. 2006.
Gift ideas that will thrill cartoon, comic-book fans.
Washington Times (December 16).
Online at http://www.washingtontimes.com/entertainment/20061215-084936-4272r.htm

Szadkowski, Joseph. 2005.
DVD set traces complete history of Batman films.
Washington Times (November 12)

Szadkowski, Joseph. 2006.
Heroes must again save the world from Brainiac
Washington Times (November 11).
Online at http://www.washingtontimes.com/entertainment/20061110-090558-1845r.htm

Szadkowski, Joseph. 2005.
'Batman Begins' package does justice to Caped One.
Washington Times (October 22)

Szadkowski, Joseph. 2005.
Bump on head does good for warrior, target Earth [toys].
Washington Times (December 3)

Szadkowski, Joseph. 2005.
Nightmare 3, Triple Threat rate a ho-hum response [videogames].
Washington Times (December 10)

Szadkowski, Joseph. 2005.
Shanna battles dinosaurs.
Washington Times (November 26)

Szadkowski, Joseph. 2006.
'Incredible' powers retained for full superhero action [videogame].
Washington Times (January 21)

Szadkowski, Joseph. 2006.
From Darth to Washington, action stars have shrunk.
Washington Times (February 4)

Szadkowski, Joseph. 2006.
The 'Pumpkin' is still special [‘It's the Great Pumpkin, Charlie Brown’ Peanuts animation].
Washington Times (October 27).
Online at http://www.washingtontimes.com/entertainment/20061026-102733-7957r.htm

Szadkowski, Joseph. 2006.
X-Men take a stand, Tracy a slapstick injustice.
Washington Times (October 14).
Online at http://www.washingtontimes.com/entertainment/20061013-085321-9456r.htm

Szadkowski, Joseph. 2006.
Plagues pummel Earth, good fights evil in Spawn.
Washington Times (November 25).
Online at http://www.washingtontimes.com/functions/print.php?StoryID=20061124-090648-1518r

Szadkowski, Joseph. 2006.
Star Wars action figures hit right note for season.
Washington Times (December 2).
Online at http://www.washingtontimes.com/entertainment/20061201-084853-6055r.htm

Szadkowski, Joseph. 2006.
Animated 'Star Trek' cast; Donner's 'Superman II'.
Washington Times (December 9).
Online at http://www.washingtontimes.com/entertainment/20061208-082514-3075r.htm

Szadkowski, Joseph. 2007.
Hammer-wielding Steel packs 6-inch-tall punch [action figure toy].
Washington Times (June 2).
Online at http://www.washingtontimes.com/entertainment/20070601-082806-1738r.htm

Sutherland, JJ. 2008.
Bugs Bunny: The Trickster, American Style.
National Public Radio's Weekend Edition Sunday (January 6).
online at http://www.npr.org/templates/story/story.php?storyId=17874931

Wertheimer, Linda and Robert Siegel. 2000.
Bugs Bunny Turns 60.
National Public Radio's All Things Considered (July 27).
online at http://www.npr.org/templates/story/story.php?storyId=1080049

St-Louis, Herve. 2008.
Interview With Chris Staros of Top Shelf Comix.
Comic Book Bin (January 6): http://www.comicbookbin.com/Interview_With_Chris_Staros_of_Top_Shelf_Comix002.html

Tobias, Scott. 2007.
30 Days of Night [movie based on Steve Niles comic].
Onion (October 18): 16

Toles, Tom. 2007.
The Year According to Toles.
Washington Post (December 30): B8

Milbank, Dana and Cavna, Michael (ill.). 2007.
Who will rule Potomac Man?
Washington Post (December 30): B1-2

Truitt, Brian. 2006.
Batman villain flies again in new ‘Man-Bat’ miniseries.
Washington Examiner (April 24): 22

Associated Press. 2008.
Stolen Mickey Mouse watercolors recovered 17 years after NY theft [from International Museum of Cartoon Art].
Newsday (January 5).
Online at http://www.newsday.com/news/local/wire/newyork/ny-bc-ny--cartoontheft0105jan05,0,4370497.story

Van Gelder, Lawrence. 2008.
Mickey Mouse paintings are recovered [for International Museum of Cartoon Art].
New York Times (January 7)

Unknown. 2007.
Vote Now for Lambda Legal's Cartoon Contest, ‘Life Without Fair Courts’! [gay cartoons].
Prism Comics (June 13): http://www.prismcomics.org/display.php?id=1426

Unknown. 2007.
Nationally Syndicated Cartoonist and Artist Rob Harrell '91 Opens First Solo Show.
DePauw University News (June 13): http://www.depauw.edu/news/index.asp?id=19601

Unknown. 2008.
New cartoon series in ‘Wiener Zeitung’: Danish duo ‘Wulffmorgenthaler’ to feature daily on the new English page.
Wiener Zeitung (January 4)
Online at http://www.wienerzeitung.at/DesktopDefault.aspx?TabID=4082&Alias=wzo&cob=320542¤tpage=0

Wulff, Mikael and Anders Morgenthaler. 200?
Wulffmorgenthaler no. 1: Look, No Hands!
Copenhagen, Denmark: Wulffmorgenthaler ApS

Wulff, Mikael and Anders Morgenthaler. 200?
Wulffmorgenthaler no. 2: Whoops…
Copenhagen, Denmark: Wulffmorgenthaler ApS

Wulff, Mikael and Anders Morgenthaler. 200?
Wulffmorgenthaler no. 3: Fun for the Whole Family!
Copenhagen, Denmark: Wulffmorgenthaler ApS

Wulff, Mikael and Anders Morgenthaler. 200?
Wulffmorgenthaler no. 4: The Beauty of Nature.
Copenhagen, Denmark: Wulffmorgenthaler ApS

Wulff, Mikael and Anders Morgenthaler. 2007.
Wulffmorgenthaler no. 5: Extreme Tetherball.
Copenhagen, Denmark: Wulffmorgenthaler ApS

Van Gelder, Lawrence. 2007.
Jamming and Tuba-ing at Animal House [Theater Review 'The Wolves In The Walls' by Gaiman and McKean].
New York Times (October 12).
Online at http://theater2.nytimes.com/2007/10/12/theater/reviews/12wolv.html?ex=1349928000&en=99dc1b459c98f003&ei=5124&partner=permalink&exprod=permalink

Rogers, Vaneta. 2007.
Pia Guerra: In The Home Stretch [Y: The Last Man].
Newsarama (June 12): http://forum.newsarama.com/showthread.php?t=116325

Fitzgerald, Michael. 2007.
Carmine Infantino: Decades At DC And Beyond; The legendary creator recalls some of comics' pivotal moments in his new autobiography. Here he shares the origins of Batgirl and the Silver Age Flash and tells us what's he looking forward to at Wizard World Philadelphia.
Wizard Universe (June 13): http://www.wizarduniverse.com/magazine/wizard/004812442.cfm

Gurewitsch, Matthew. 2007.
Learning to Move Under the Sea, on Wheels [Disney Little Mermaid play].
New York Times (December 30).
Online at http://www.nytimes.com/2007/12/30/arts/dance/30gure.html?ex=1356584400&en=f0f9eedaa7478070&ei=5124&partner=permalink&exprod=permalink

Moore, John. 2007.
‘Mermaid's’ Menken still in tune with muse [Little Mermaid play].
Denver Post (June 17).
Online at http://www.denverpost.com/ci_6143384?source=rss

Nolte, Carl. 2008.
Martha Arguello - Bobby Sox, Emmy Lou cartoonist dies in San Rafael [Marty Links].
San Francisco Chronicle (January 9).
Online at http://www.sfgate.com/cgi-bin/article.cgi?f=/c/a/2008/01/09/BAQOUBFBN.DTL&hw=arguello&sn=001&sc=1000

Flinn, Tom and Milton Griepp. 2008.
Interview with Dark Horse CEO Mike Richardson.
ICv2 (January 7): http://www.icv2.com/articles/news/11807.html ;
http://www.icv2.com/articles/home/11808.html ; http://www.icv2.com/articles/home/11809.html

Aviv, Rachel. 2008.
One Generation Got Old, One Generation Got Soul [Pekar and Dumm SDS book].
New York Times (January 6).
Online at http://www.nytimes.com/2008/01/06/education/edlife/sds.html?ex=1357189200&en=2933e405a8dfc2f3&ei=5124&partner=permalink&exprod=permalink

Barnes, Brooks. 2007.
Web Playgrounds of the Very Young [Walt Disney Company, Nickelodeon, Warner Brothers Entertainment, Looney Tunes, Hanna-Barbera and D. C.].
New York Times (December 31).
Online at http://www.nytimes.com/2007/12/31/business/31virtual.html?ex=1356843600&en=1742e921e9c2fb50&ei=5124&partner=permalink&exprod=permalink

Pineo, Janine. 2008.
An interview with Piers Baker, creator of "Ollie and Quentin".
Bangor Daily News (January 7).
Online at http://bangornews.com/news/t/lifestyle.aspx?articleid=158581&zoneid=14

Pineo, Janine. 2008.
Gull Ollie and worm Quentin new comic strip's unlikely duo.
Bangor Daily News (January 7).
Online at http://bangornews.com/news/t/lifestyle.aspx?articleid=158610&zoneid=14

Laun, Christina. 2008.
The Planet Express Guide to Management - 33 HR Lessons from Futurama.
Bootstrapper (January 8): http://www.businesscreditcards.com/bootstrapper/the-planet-express-guide-to-management-33-hr-lessons-from-futurama/

Gregorian, Dareh. 2008.
Spidey's Smooch Scandal [Spider-Man ‘Brand New Day’].
New York Post (January 7).
Online at http://www.nypost.com/seven/01072008/news/nationalnews/spideys_smooch_scandal_165956.htm

Benefiel, Elizabeth. 2008.
Daniel Clowes.
Onion AV Club (January 4): http://www.avclub.com/content/interview/daniel_clowes

Cabron, Lou. 2008.
Records Broken By the Perry Bible Fellowship?[Nicholas Gurewitch interview].
10 Zen Monkeys (January 5): http://www.10zenmonkeys.com/2008/01/05/records-broken-by-the-perry-bible-fellowship/

Getsinger, Annie. 2008.
Good grief! Don't depend on the luck of the draw to save your favorite comics [poll].
Herald & Review (January 7).
Online at http://www.herald-review.com/articles/2008/01/07/life/features/doc4782338896588556507872.txt

Snelgrove, Erin. 2008.
Pulitzer-winning cartoonist branches out to comic strip [Signe Wilkinson and Family Tree].
Yakima Herald-Republic (January 7).
Online at http://www.yakimaherald.com/page/dis/308892319900527

Thursday, January 10, 2008

National Archives press release on exhibit and panel discussion

NATIONAL ARCHIVES PRESENTS POLITICAL CARTOONISTS PANEL DISCUSSION AND A FILM SCREENING FOR OPENING OF NEW EXHIBIT “RUNNING FOR OFFICE”

Washington, DC. . . On Thursday, February 7, at 7 p.m. the National Archives presents a group of Pulitzer Prize–winning political cartoonists, including Pat Oliphant, in a special panel discussion celebrating the opening of the new exhibition “Running for Office: Candidates, Campaigns, and the Cartoons of Clifford Berryman.” Also in conjunction with the opening, the National Archives will offer a screening of The Great McGinty on Saturday, February 16, at noon.

The exhibition opens in the Lawrence F. O’Brien Gallery of the National Archives Building in Washington, D.C. on Friday, February 8 and runs through August 17, 2008. Winter hours (through March 14) are 10 a.m. to 5:30 p.m.; Spring hours (March 15 through Labor Day) are 10 a.m. to 7 p.m., daily.

The “Running for Office” exhibition includes 41 exceptional pen-and-ink drawings that highlight timeless aspects of the American campaign and election process. Clifford K. Berryman, staff political cartoonist for The Washington Post and the Washington Evening Star during the first half of the 20th century, drew thousands of cartoons commenting on Presidential and congressional candidates, campaign issues, and elections of his era. The cartoons are part of the official Records of the U.S. Senate housed in the National Archives Center for Legislative Archives.

The programs are free and open to the public. For information on National Archives Public Programs, call 202-357-5000, or view the Calendar of Events online at: www.archives.gov. The William G. McGowan Theater is located in the National Archives Building on Constitution Avenue between 7th and 9th Streets, NW, Washington, DC. Use the National Archives Building Special Events entrance on the corner of 7th Street and Constitution Avenue.

Running for Office: Cartooning and Politics
Thursday, February 7, at 7 p.m.
William G. McGowan Theater
Award-winning editorial cartoons are often characterized by their originality, editorial effectiveness, and quality of drawing and dramatize a wide range of social and political issues with style and humor. Join moderator Stephen Hess, Distinguished Research Professor of Media and Public Affairs at George Washington University and co-author of Drawn & Quartered: The History of American Political Cartoons, as he welcomes four Pulitzer Prize–winning political cartoonists: Pat Oliphant, the most widely syndicated political cartoonist in the world; Ann Telnaes, freelance editorial cartoonist with CartoonArts International/NY Times Syndicate and Women’s eNews; Matt Davies, editorial cartoonist for the Journal News, Westchester, NY, syndicated internationally in more than 80 newspapers by Tribune Media Services; and Clay Bennett, editorial cartoonist with the Chattanooga Times Free Press. The panelists will discuss their work, what inspires and motivates political cartoons, and the effect of these cartoons on the political community and the public.

Running for Office Film Series—The Great McGinty
Saturday, February 16, at noon
William G. McGowan Theater
Writer-director Preston Sturges’s first film tells of the rise and fall of Dan McGinty, which begins when he endears himself to the political machine by voting 37 times in a single election and ends with him working as a bartender in a banana republic. In between, he is pushed by a ruthless political boss into the governor’s chair as the stooge to end all stooges. The film stars Brian Donlevy and won an Academy Award® for Best Screenplay. (1940, 82 minutes)

Sandra Boynton in Post

Today's Post had a kid's feature on Sandra Boynton who began as a greeting card cartoonist, moved into books and tchockes and is now omnipresent. See Hippo, "Hurray! You're Never Too Old to Enjoy Sandra Boynton -- and She Has a New CD/Book," by Eve Zibart, Washington Post Thursday, January 10, 2008; C14 and
Meet Sandra Boynton

Feb 23: Oscar animated shorts at National Archives

Bruce Guthrie reports that these will be shown at the downtown Archives building (7th and PA Ave, NW) at 3:30 pm.

Wednesday, January 09, 2008

Opus based on Washington Post contest

Gene Weingarten reported on his January 8, 2008 chat:

Some alert readers noticed with outrage something odd about the Opuses of Dec. 9 and Dec. 16. What they noticed, specifically, was that every pun in the strips was lifted from a Style Invitational from 1998.

What they didn't notice, specifically, was that Breathed acknowledged the thievery: Note what Steve Dallas is reading in week one.

To give credit where credit is due, here are the names of the original entrants, and their entries:

Flabbergasted -- adj., appalled over how much weight you have gained. (Michelle Feeley, Arlington)

Coffee -- n., a person who is coughed upon. (David Hoffman, San Diego)

Willy-nilly -- adj., impotent. (Beth Benson, Lanham)

Flatulence -- n., the emergency vehicle that picks you up after you are run over by a steamroller. (Russell Beland, Springfield)

Abdicate -- v., to give up all hope of ever having a flat stomach. (Tom Witte, Gaithersburg)


Later, he also says:

Raleigh, N.C.: I wanted to apprise you of the following depressing sentence on the front page of the section our comics are in, in the Raleigh N & O. "Cathy's coming back, as are Drabble and Hagar!" How will they ever make this betrayal up to me?

Gene Weingarten: Omigod.

How can the same newspaper that chooses to carry my column choose to do something as humor-impaire as that.

Hagar the Horrible has not had an actual joke in it since 1973.

Politics and Prose Bookstore featured in article

P&P has a lot of talks by cartoonists and they're featured as a reason to visit DC in "Great bookstores make great destinations," By BETH J. HARPAZ, AP Travel Editor, Mon Jan 7, 2008.

Feb 8: Clifford Berryman's Running for Office exhibit opens at National Archives


Running for Office: Candidates, Campaigns, and the Cartoons of Clifford Berryman

Introduction

The exhibit “Running for Office: Candidates, Campaigns, and the Cartoons of Clifford Berryman,” which opens in the Lawrence F. O'Brien Gallery of the National Archives Building in Washington, DC, February 8, 2008, and runs through August 17, 2008. The exhibit features 42 original pen-and-ink drawings including all of the cartoons seen here. Timed to coincide with the Presidential primaries and the 2008 campaign season, the exhibit highlights both specific and timeless aspects of the American campaign and election process.

The cartoons, drawn by renowned cartoonist Clifford K. Berryman, illustrate campaigns beginning with the candidates’ decision to run for office and ending with the ultimate outcome of the election. Although many political procedures have changed, these cartoons show that the political process has remained remarkably consistent; Berryman’s cartoons from the early 20th century remain relevant today.

All of these cartoons appeared on the front page of Washington newspapers from 1898 through 1948. They are part of a collection of nearly 2,400 pen-and-ink drawings by Berryman. In 1992, in honor of former Senate Majority Leader Mike Mansfield, the Charles Engelhard Foundation purchased the drawings and donated them to the U.S. Senate.

Feb 7: Oliphant, Telnaes, Davies and Bennett at National Archives

A tip from Bruce Guthrie... I'll try to be there.

The Center for the National Archives Experience is pleased to present programs in celebration of our new exhibit "Running for Office: Candidates,Campaigns, and the Cartoons of Clifford Berryman" which opens February 8 in the Lawrence F. O'Brien Gallery.

Thursday February 7 at 7pm
William G McGowan Theater
Running for Office: Cartooning and Politics
Join moderator Stephen Hess, Distinguished Research Professor of Media and Public Affairs at the George Washington University and co-author of Drawn & Quartered: the History of American Political Cartoons, as he welcomes four Pulitzer Prize-winning political cartoonists: Pat Oliphant, the most widely syndicated political cartoonist in the world; Ann Telnaes, freeland editorial cartoonist with CartoonArts International/NY Times Syndicate and Women's eNews; Matt Davies, editorial cartoonist for the Journal News, Westchester NY; and Clay Bennett, editorial cartoonist with the Chattanooga Times Free Press. The panelists will discuss their work, what inspires and motivates political cartoons, and how these cartoons effect the political
community and the public.

OT: My buddy Marc at Viz needs an editor in San Francisco

Actually, I thought this WAS Marc's job...

Senior Editor, Magazines - VIZ Media - Anime Manga (north beach / telegraph hill)
Reply to: jobs@viz.com
Date: 2008-01-09, 7:09AM PST
http://sfbay.craigslist.org/sfc/wri/533365969.html

We are looking for a Senior Editor to join our Magazines Division.

SUMMARY
The Senior Editor oversees editorial and design for an assigned magazine in the Magazines Department of VIZ Media, which publishes a variety of materials originally published in Japan. The Senior Editor will ensure that the assigned magazine and magazine-related products maintain the company's position in the marketplace, and ensure that the company's publications reflect the VIZ Media strategy, and
maintain an engaged readership through the following duties:

PRINCIPAL DUTIES
1. Sets the tone and style of the magazine editorial.
2. Manages the schedules and production of a professional team of editors and designers who produce magazines.
3. Works closely with Managing Editor and Managing Editor's Design team to ensure timely production of magazines.
4. Responsible for enforcing deadlines regarding editorial, design, and production work.
5. Recruits, hires, and sets fees for freelancers assisting with editing and design work related to production (includes writers, photographers, illustrators, etc.).
6. Supervises the work of a Lead Designer and an Editor (Associate or Assistant) in the Magazine staff and has significant input into measurement of staff performance. Effectively utilizes the staff and provides support so that department goals can be achieved. Helps manage their workload.
7. Remains actively involved in writing, editing, and rewriting of magazines.
8. Represents magazine at industry events.
9. Mediates and helps to resolve disputes between editorial and design staff and with other departments.

In addition to these typical responsibilities, performs other activities as assigned.

MINIMUM ABILITY, SKILL AND KNOWLEDGE REQUIREMENTS
• Magazine publishing experience REQUIRED.
• Previous experience with manga, comics, and/or gaming industries REQUIRED.
• Ability to successfully manage and lead a cutting-edge editorial operation for successful comics and book publisher.
• Ability to correctly identify needed improvements in editorial strategies, scheduling, and production strategies.
• Ability to speak and write effectively in English, and to interact with culturally diverse clients and staff.
• Ability to speak, read, and write Japanese preferred.
• Ability to utilize Microsoft Word and the Internet.
• Ability to manage staffs and work effectively in a small organization with an emphasis on teamwork.
• Ability to assess the quality of writing, editing, copy-editing, and design work.
• Ability to interact with culturally diverse clients, service providers and staff.
• Ability to work legally in the United States.
• Ability to live in/commute to the SF Bay Area.

MINIMUM PREVIOUS EXPERIENCE, TRAINING, AND EDUCATION
• 1-2 years of management experience preferred.
• 2-3 years of experience in delivering increasingly responsible management and leadership to editorial operations required.
• 3-5 years of experience in delivering high quality editorial services related to magazines, comic books, and/or trade books required.
• Equivalent of Bachelor's Degree in Creative Writing, Journalism, English, or related fields from an accredited college or university, or equivalent, with a record that demonstrates suitable preparation for this position.

SUPERVISORY RESPONSIBILITIES
This position supervises the work of others, including the staff of each assigned magazine.

WORKING ENVIRONMENT/MINIMUM PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS
Primarily works in an office environment, requiring the following activity: lifting and carrying materials, weighing up to 25 pounds, kneeling, bending. Approximately 75% of time spent on the job may involve use of a video display terminal and telephone. Must be able to safely operate a motor vehicle to perform tasks related to job duties.

As part of a multi-media entertainment company, employees may be subjected to work-related images including content such as: sexually explicit images, nudity, and graphic violence. Employees should be willing to work with this type of content. VIZ Media does not condone the viewing of this content where not work-related.

OTHER INFORMATION
Employees must adhere to all applicable VIZ Media policies and procedures. Regular and predictable attendance is required.
Willingness and ability to work non-standard business hours, such as nights and weekends, on an as-needed basis is required. Employees must be able to cope effectively with deadlines and multiple demands.

TO APPLY
Please send your cover letter, resume, AND salary requirements. Please specify "Senior Editor" when applying.

By e-mail (NO ATTACHMENTS!!!) to jobs@viz.com
NO PHONE CALLS!!!

COMPANY/PRODUCTS
Headquartered in San Francisco, CA, VIZ Media, LLC (VIZ Media) is one of the most comprehensive and innovative companies in the field of manga publishing, animation and entertainment licensing of Japanese content. Owned by three of Japan's largest creators and licensors of manga and animation, Shueisha Inc., Shogakukan Inc., and Shogakukan Production Co., Ltd. (ShoPro Japan), VIZ Media is a leader in the publishing and distribution of Japanese manga for English speakingaudiences in North America and a global licensor of Japanese animation.

The company offers an integrated product line including, magazines such as SHONEN JUMP and SHOJO BEAT, graphic novels, videos, and DVDs, and develops and markets animated entertainment from initial production, television placement and distribution, to merchandise licensing and promotions for audiences and consumers of all ages.

VIZ MEDIA OFFERS
A competitive salary and an excellent benefits package including:
• Health (including chiropractic/acupuncture), Dental, and Vision insurances
• Life insurance, short-term and long-term disability insurance
• 401(k) plan
• Paid personal time off (PTO) — 17 days per year to start!
• Paid holidays — average 11 days/year
• Partially paid gym membership
• Flex-time
• Full-time casual dress policy

* Principals only. Recruiters, please don't contact this job poster.
* Please, no phone calls about this job!
* Please do not contact job poster about other services, products or commercial interests.

Articles in Post's hardcopy

There was a wire service obituary - "Joyce Carlson, Disney Animator," Washington Post Wednesday, January 9, 2008; Page B06

and an article on the recent trends in Indian animation -
"In India, Gods Rule The 'Toon' Universe: Hindu Myth a Fount of Superheroes," by Rama Lakshmi, Washington Post Foreign Service, Wednesday, January 9, 2008; A11