Wednesday, June 24, 2009
Cavna on Thompson on San Diego
It's been a few days since we linked to Comic Riffs, so here's a quick bit on Richard Thompson's maiden San Diego Comicon voyage.
Summer Anime Series: Skycrawlers June 26th @ JICC!
Summer Anime Series 2009
Presented by the Japan Information & Culture Center, Embassy of Japan
and DC Anime Club
Winner of the Mainichi Award for Best Animated Film 2008
SKY CRAWLERS
June 26th @ 6:30pm
In a hauntingly familiar yet futuristic alternate reality, eternally youthful fighter pilots struggle for supremacy of the skies. Genetically modified to exist in perpetual adolescence, these immortal "kildren" are forced to carry out a war between competing international corporations in an otherwise peaceful world—all for the entertainment of the consumer. But when an ace pilot falls for his beautiful new commander, he begins to question his fate. From award-winning anime director Mamoru Oshii comes this stunning adaptation of the original series of graphic novels by Hiroshi Mori. The highly anticipated DVD was released in the US on May 26th.
Mamoru Oshii is revered by both film enthusiasts and anime aficionados as a true innovator in animation. His introspective, philosophical style of storytelling challenges the stereotypes of conventional animation. With a unique atmospheric touch and surreal narrative approach, his film Innocence (2004) became the first animated film to be chosen as a finalist for the prestigious Palm d'Or at the Cannes Film Festival.
Japanese with English subtitles.120 min, 2008. Rated PG-13. Directed by Mamoru Oshii.
This event is free and open to the public. Seating is limited and will be granted on a first come, first served basis. Reservations required. Please send your name, affiliation, the number in your party and the names of your guests to jiccrsvpsummer09@embjapan.org.
Summer Anime Series 2009
July 31 Lupin III: The Castle of Cagliostro
The escapades of master thief Lupin III continue in this action-packed anime feature. Lupin and the gang set out to expose an evil counterfeit operation at Count Cagliostro's impenetrable fortress. But if they fail to rescue the beautiful princess from the dark lord's grip, they risk destroying the world -- and losing the vast fortune of gold hidden within. Written and directed by Hayao Miyazaki, Steven Spielberg calls it "One of the greatest adventure movies of all time." Don't miss it!
Aug. 28 Death Note II: The Last Name
Following on the heels of the first Death Note movie, Light Yagami joins the investigation of the serial killer known as "Kira," trying to uncover L's real name so he can kill him with his Death Note. L suspects that Light is Kira, but a new rash of murders are taking place around the world, with a "Second Kira" claiming responsibility. When Light learns the identity of the Second Kira, he suggests they join forces to get rid of L. Will L be able to catch Kira before he is killed?
Japan Information & Culture Center, Embassy of Japan
Lafayette Centre III (lower level) 1155 21st Street NW, Washington D.C. 20036
Metro: Dupont Circle, Farragut North (Red) / Farragut West (Orange / Blue)
www.us.emb-japan.go.jp/jicc
Glen Weldon on Seth's new book
Weldon, Glen. 2009.
8 Practical Uses For The Giant Graphic Novel 'George Sprott, 1894-1975'.
National Public Radio's Monkey See blog (June 24):
http://www.npr.org/blogs/monkeysee/2009/06/8_practical_uses_for_the_giant.html?sc=nl&cc=msb-20090624
Politics and Prose graphic novel group meets tonight for the first time
P&P's new Graphic Novel Reading Group will begin meeting the fourth Wednesday of each month. Please contact Adam Waterreus at awaterreus@politics-prose.com for information if you would like to join.
I wrote to Adam who responded with these details:
The group will meet on the fourth Wednesday of every month starting in June at 7:30pm. It will be led by myself, and possibly Thad Ellerbe, the other Graphic Novel buyer/enthusiast at the store. I'm hoping to read a variety of work, from superhero, to lit, experimental, word-less, manga, all of it as long as it's intriguing and fun to talk about. I decided on Ex Machina volume 1 by Brian Vaughn for the first book because it melds a good superhero premise with character driven/political plotting, not to mention it's accessible (for those unsure about reading a graphic novel) and cheap, $9.99, (for those with light wallets). Hopefully it goes well. I'm thinking that in the future the group might discuss to figure out what we'll read next, or maybe do themed readings...I don't know. One of the perks of the book-group will be that if you buy the book-group book from Politics and Prose you'll get a 20% discount.
I wrote to Adam who responded with these details:
The group will meet on the fourth Wednesday of every month starting in June at 7:30pm. It will be led by myself, and possibly Thad Ellerbe, the other Graphic Novel buyer/enthusiast at the store. I'm hoping to read a variety of work, from superhero, to lit, experimental, word-less, manga, all of it as long as it's intriguing and fun to talk about. I decided on Ex Machina volume 1 by Brian Vaughn for the first book because it melds a good superhero premise with character driven/political plotting, not to mention it's accessible (for those unsure about reading a graphic novel) and cheap, $9.99, (for those with light wallets). Hopefully it goes well. I'm thinking that in the future the group might discuss to figure out what we'll read next, or maybe do themed readings...I don't know. One of the perks of the book-group will be that if you buy the book-group book from Politics and Prose you'll get a 20% discount.
Cartoonist Richard Thompson at Arlington Central Library 6/29
If you missed him at Heroes Con (a no show there, but he'll be at San Diego Comicon), I'll remind folks of Richard's appearance Monday at Arlington Central Library:
Cartoonist Richard Thompson Speaks at Arlington Central Library Monday, June 29, 7 p.m.
Arlington Central Library Auditorium, 1015 N. Quincy Street, Arlington, Va.
Hear from the man behind the syndicated daily comic strip "Cul de Sac," and who's unique style and humor have graced the various parts of the Washington Post ("Richard's Poor Almanac"), National Geographic, the Atlantic and the New Yorker--Arlington's own Richard Thompson. No, not the musician by the same name. The cartoonist Richard Thompson. Book-signing follows.
Tuesday, June 23, 2009
Times reviews League of Extraordinary Gentlemen vol. 3
"Heroes, villans and patriotism," Ron Capshaw, Washington Times Sunday, June 21, 2009 is a positive review of
THE LEAGUE OF EXTRAORDINARY GENTLEMEN, VOL. 3: CENTURY NO. 1: 1910
By Alan Moore, Kevin O'Neill
Top Shelf Productions, $7.95, 80 pages
THE LEAGUE OF EXTRAORDINARY GENTLEMEN, VOL. 3: CENTURY NO. 1: 1910
By Alan Moore, Kevin O'Neill
Top Shelf Productions, $7.95, 80 pages
Washington Times ALSO has a full-page strip on Sunday
I previously mentioned the Art Spiegelman strip that ran this weekend, but the Washington Times ALSO had a full-page strip on Sunday - and apparently has done so for months. Alexander Hunter's Hunter's Big Picture appears to be a monthly full-page editorial cartoon strip that is later animated on the Times' website. The Sunday June 21st page "Who's Your Daddy?" appeared on Father's day and just fell into my hands today - it's a pretty good strip on various aspects of fatherhood. There's 31 of them online so far, and most of them appear to be more political than this one... sigh. Just when you think you've got your blog's subject covered fairly well...
Fantom Comics update
Here's what their newsletter said today:
We're settling into our single store at Union Station quite nicely and want to thank all of our loyal subscribers for their cooperation and understanding. We're still negotiating for the Cleveland Park location (three doors down from the Uptown), but no progress has yet been made.
A note on tomorrow: it happens to be the single largest New Comic Book Day in Fantom history. There are tons of great books coming out. Blackest Night and especially Dark Reign are both represented. We're excited to offer the very first issue of Barack the Barbarian. (Union Station tourists can't get enough Barack, so I recommend coming in early to snag one of these issues that will at least have kitsch appeal if not a good story...which it might also, we'll just have to see). The soft cover of All Star Batman & Robin is finally out!
We're settling into our single store at Union Station quite nicely and want to thank all of our loyal subscribers for their cooperation and understanding. We're still negotiating for the Cleveland Park location (three doors down from the Uptown), but no progress has yet been made.
A note on tomorrow: it happens to be the single largest New Comic Book Day in Fantom history. There are tons of great books coming out. Blackest Night and especially Dark Reign are both represented. We're excited to offer the very first issue of Barack the Barbarian. (Union Station tourists can't get enough Barack, so I recommend coming in early to snag one of these issues that will at least have kitsch appeal if not a good story...which it might also, we'll just have to see). The soft cover of All Star Batman & Robin is finally out!
Spy vs. Spy vs. Spy
Today's Express has a Spy vs Spy drawing by Ben Classen illustrating the Baggage Check column. The strip was originally done by Antonio Prohias for Mad Magazine and been done recently by Peter Kuper. This is the second look at the strip in DC this week - Sunday's Baby Blues comic strip's opening throwaway panel used the strip as well.
Monday, June 22, 2009
Pekar mention in yesteday's New York Times
This article is by Harvey Pekar's second cousin and glances at family ties - Sidewalk Phantom, By AUSTIN RATNER, New York Times Magazine June 21, 2009
http://www.nytimes.com/2009/06/21/magazine/21lives-t.html
http://www.nytimes.com/2009/06/21/magazine/21lives-t.html
June 22: Superman 3 in Crystal City
Crystal Screen - Superheroes
Join the Crystal City BID for 21 weeks of Superheros! On Monday nights from May 4, 2009-September 21, 2009, Crystal City will be protected by Batman, Spiderman, Superman, and many others. Each night will also have special giveaways, sponsors, and other activities.
Date(s):
May 4, 2009 - September 21, 2009
Location:
18th and Bell Street - Courtyard Across from Crystal City Metro Station & Marriott Hotel
Event Fee:
Free
Hours:
Movies begin at sundown
Description:
Join the Crystal City BID for 21 weeks of Superheros! On Monday nights from May 4, 2009-September 21, 2009, Crystal City will be protected by Batman, Spiderman, Superman, and many others. Each night will also have special giveaways, sponsors, and other activities. Check back here for more information.
CRYSTAL KID BONUS: Since it gets dark later in the summer and movies often start past bedtime, the BID has partnered with Crystal City Sports Pub to rebroadcast each movie at 3:30 PM on the 3rd Floor of CCSP on the Wednesday following the outdoor showing, starting May 6. Bring your kids and a blanket and enjoy the fabulous surround network of TVs.
Festival Rules: Patrons can bring their own picnics as long as they abide by city and festival rules. Low-backed chairs and blankets are allowed, but grills, umbrellas, and pets are prohibited.
Schedule
June 22, 2009 - Superman 3: Superman vs. Superman
June 24, 2009 - Superman 3: Superman vs. Superman - at CCSP
June 29, 2009 - Superman 4: The Quest for Peace
June 31, 2009 - Superman 4: The Quest for Peace - at CCSP
July 6, 2009 - Superman 5: Superman Returns
July 8, 2009 - Superman 5: Superman Returns - at CCSP
July 13, 2009 - X-Men
July 15, 2009 - X-Men - at CCSP
July 20, 2009 - X2
July 22, 2009 - X2 - at CCSP
July 27, 2009 - X-Men: The Last Stand
July 29, 2009 - X-Men: The Last Stand - at CCSP
August 3, 2009 - Fantastic Four
August 5, 2009 - Fantastic Four - at CCSP
August 10, 2009 - Fantastic Four: Rise of the Silver Surfer
August 12, 2009 - Fantastic Four: Rise of the Silver Surfer - at CCSP
August 17, 2009 - Batman
August 19, 2009 - Batman - at CCSP
August 24, 2009 - Batman Returns
August 26, 2009 - Batman Returns - at CCSP
August 31, 2009 - Batman Forever
September 2, 2009 - Batman Forever - at CCSP
September 7, 2009 - Batman & Robin
September 9, 2009 - Batman & Robin - at CCSP
September 14, 2009 - Batman Begins
September 16, 2009 - Batman Begins - at CCSP
September 21, 2009 - Batman: The Dark Knight
September 23, 2009 - Batman: The Dark Knight - at CCSP
Join the Crystal City BID for 21 weeks of Superheros! On Monday nights from May 4, 2009-September 21, 2009, Crystal City will be protected by Batman, Spiderman, Superman, and many others. Each night will also have special giveaways, sponsors, and other activities.
Date(s):
May 4, 2009 - September 21, 2009
Location:
18th and Bell Street - Courtyard Across from Crystal City Metro Station & Marriott Hotel
Event Fee:
Free
Hours:
Movies begin at sundown
Description:
Join the Crystal City BID for 21 weeks of Superheros! On Monday nights from May 4, 2009-September 21, 2009, Crystal City will be protected by Batman, Spiderman, Superman, and many others. Each night will also have special giveaways, sponsors, and other activities. Check back here for more information.
CRYSTAL KID BONUS: Since it gets dark later in the summer and movies often start past bedtime, the BID has partnered with Crystal City Sports Pub to rebroadcast each movie at 3:30 PM on the 3rd Floor of CCSP on the Wednesday following the outdoor showing, starting May 6. Bring your kids and a blanket and enjoy the fabulous surround network of TVs.
Festival Rules: Patrons can bring their own picnics as long as they abide by city and festival rules. Low-backed chairs and blankets are allowed, but grills, umbrellas, and pets are prohibited.
Schedule
June 22, 2009 - Superman 3: Superman vs. Superman
June 24, 2009 - Superman 3: Superman vs. Superman - at CCSP
June 29, 2009 - Superman 4: The Quest for Peace
June 31, 2009 - Superman 4: The Quest for Peace - at CCSP
July 6, 2009 - Superman 5: Superman Returns
July 8, 2009 - Superman 5: Superman Returns - at CCSP
July 13, 2009 - X-Men
July 15, 2009 - X-Men - at CCSP
July 20, 2009 - X2
July 22, 2009 - X2 - at CCSP
July 27, 2009 - X-Men: The Last Stand
July 29, 2009 - X-Men: The Last Stand - at CCSP
August 3, 2009 - Fantastic Four
August 5, 2009 - Fantastic Four - at CCSP
August 10, 2009 - Fantastic Four: Rise of the Silver Surfer
August 12, 2009 - Fantastic Four: Rise of the Silver Surfer - at CCSP
August 17, 2009 - Batman
August 19, 2009 - Batman - at CCSP
August 24, 2009 - Batman Returns
August 26, 2009 - Batman Returns - at CCSP
August 31, 2009 - Batman Forever
September 2, 2009 - Batman Forever - at CCSP
September 7, 2009 - Batman & Robin
September 9, 2009 - Batman & Robin - at CCSP
September 14, 2009 - Batman Begins
September 16, 2009 - Batman Begins - at CCSP
September 21, 2009 - Batman: The Dark Knight
September 23, 2009 - Batman: The Dark Knight - at CCSP
Sunday, June 21, 2009
Zadzooks on Ghostbusters videogame
See "Zadzooks: Ghostbusters: The Video Game review,"
Joseph Szadkowski, Washington Times Thursday, June 18, 2009, which has a passing mention of the IDW comic book series.
Bennett's best returns - "Bennett's Best for the week of June 7", June 17, 2009 at Zadzooks' blog.
Joseph Szadkowski, Washington Times Thursday, June 18, 2009, which has a passing mention of the IDW comic book series.
Bennett's best returns - "Bennett's Best for the week of June 7", June 17, 2009 at Zadzooks' blog.
QUICK REVIEWS FOR COMICS DUE 06-24-09
QUICK REVIEWS FOR COMICS DUE 06-24-09
By John Judy
ACTRESS AND THE BISHOP #1 written and drawn by Brian Bolland. Collecting Bolland’s little known humor strips about a duo that can most charitably be called “Politically Incorrect.” From Desperado Publishing. Gotta look!
ASTONISHING X-MEN #30 by Warren Ellis and Simone Bianchi. The prettiest X-book on the stands wraps up its first arc, “Ghost Boxes.” Recommended.
AVENGERS: INITIATIVE #25 by Christos Gage and Humberto Ramos. In which things go South for our heroes. That Norman Osborn is a bad egg to be sure…
AVENGERS INVADERS #12 of 12 by Alex Ross, Jim Kreuger and Steve Sadowski. Our long national nightmare is over.
BARACK THE BARBARIAN: QUEST FOR THE TREASURE OF STIMULI #1 of 4 by Larry Hama, Chris Schons and Rachelle Rosenberg. A humor title featuring a familiar figure. But will a comic book with President Obama on the cover sell? A bit of risk-taking from Devil’s Due Publishing.
DAREDEVIL #119 by Ed Brubaker and Michael Lark. Lady Bullseye and her hangers-on finally come out of hiding. Not good for heroes with horns and their fat sidekicks.
DARK AVENGERS #6 by Brian Michael Bendis and Mike Deodato. Norman Osborn is hearing voices again. And they’re not keeping tempo and harmony.
DARK AVENGERS/UNCANNY X-MEN: UTOPIA #1 by Matt Fraction and Marc Silvestri. The Dark Avengers are sent to San Francisco to keep the hippies in line. Mutants too. Hijinks ensue.
DARK REIGN: SINISTER SPIDER-MAN #1 by Brian Reed and Barry Kitson. The evil Dark Avengers Spidey (who is really The Scorpion/Venom) is living life and eating people. Because somebody’s gotta do it!
DETECTIVE COMICS #854 by Greg Rucka, J.H. Williams and Cully Hamner. Oh sure, you think of this old war horse book of DC’s as another in an endless series of Bat-titles. But what if I told you this one had not one but TWO awesome creative teams and the book was devoted to the two most high-profile, butt-kicking lesbians in the DCU? Got your attention now, eh? Batwoman and The Question every month. Must Have. Highly recommended.
FINAL CRISIS AFTERMATH: INK #2 of 6 by Eric Wallace and Fabrizio Fiorentino. Granted, it’s a spin-off series from a disappointing “event” book, but this one’s actually pretty durn good. A mostly reformed bad guy whose tattoos come to life to hurt other less-reformed bad guys. And it’s set in my new/old hometown of Washington, DC. Worth checking out if only to see if the new Tattooed Man goes after Marion Barry. Recommended.
GOLDEN-AGE STARMAN ARCHIVES VOL. 2 HC by Numerous Legends of the Comics/Sci-Fi Golden Age. Collecting ADVENTURE COMICS #77-102. Thousands of dollars worth of comics for a lot less than you’d pay on E-Bay.
GOTHAM CITY SIRENS #1 by Paul Dini and Guillem March. The adventures of Catwoman, Poison Ivy and Harley Quinn featuring covers that will make you hit puberty all over again. What more can one ask?
GREEN LANTERN #42 by Geoff Johns and Philip Tan. Green vs. Orange! Will power vs. Greed! Must say, on paper I’m betting on Greed. Good luck, Hal.
IMMORTAL IRON FIST #27 by Duane Swierczynski and Travel Foreman. The Final Issue. I guess his kung-fu wasn’t so tough after all. This was a good series and will be missed. Recommended.
JUSTICE SOCIETY OF AMERICA #28 by Jerry Ordway and Bob Wiacek. A Japanese spirit who’s still peeved about the A-bombs takes it to the JSA. Enter their old ally, the Spectre! Of course this is the new Spectre who’s a little less inclined to throw planets at people when he’s moody. Anything can happen. Read it!
NEW AVENGERS #54 by Brian Michael Bendis, Chris Bachalo and Billy Tan. Brother (I mean “Brudder”) Voodoo?!? Are you kidding me, Bendis?! Screw it, I’m rooting for Dormammu….
NORTHLANDERS #18 by Brian Wood and Danijel Zezelj. A Must-Have two-parter about the real story of the Norse Valkyries. “The Shield Maidens” begins here. Highly recommended.
PREVIEWS by Diamond and Marvel Comics. “Uncertain the future is.” Here’s everyone’s best guess for three months from now.
SUPERMAN #689 by James Robinson and Renato Guedes. A dying Mon-El decides to see the world before he cashes in his chips. And hit people.
THOR #602 by J. Michael Straczynski and Marko Djurdjevic. Loki continues rocking all of Thor’s nine worlds. Okay, that sounds dirty. “Loki continues vexing Thor with his/her mischief.” Eh, better. Thor still needs his head examined. Trusting Loki? Too many war clubs to ye olde noggin.
THUNDERBOLTS #133 by Andy Diggle and Roberto De La Torre. Osborne’s hit squad tries once again to take down Songbird. Only Andy Diggle and a few others could make this work. And he does.
UNCANNY X-MEN #512 by Matt Fraction and Yanick Paquette. Mutant chicks, time travel and the first Sentinel. I’m in.
WHATEVER HAPPENED TO THE WORLD OF TOMORROW? HC written and drawn by Brian Fies. A graphic novel by the creator of MOM’S CANCER. This one takes us through an account of growing up from 1939 to 1975 when technology was making promises its creators never quite managed to keep. Does not come with a jetpack, appropriately enough.
WOLVERINE: WEAPONX #3 by Jason Aaron and Ron Garney. Wolvie vs. the Adamantium Men. This is the good Wolverine book, folks. Aaron/Garney. Accept no substitutes. Recommended.
WONDER WOMAN #33 by Gail Simone and Aaron Lopresti. WW puts paid to her evil future zombie self and lots more. The final chapter, at least for some. Gotta look!
X-FACTOR #45 by Peter David and Valentine DeLandro. Madrox meets Doctor Doom. This could be the shortest issue yet.
www.johnjudy.net
By John Judy
ACTRESS AND THE BISHOP #1 written and drawn by Brian Bolland. Collecting Bolland’s little known humor strips about a duo that can most charitably be called “Politically Incorrect.” From Desperado Publishing. Gotta look!
ASTONISHING X-MEN #30 by Warren Ellis and Simone Bianchi. The prettiest X-book on the stands wraps up its first arc, “Ghost Boxes.” Recommended.
AVENGERS: INITIATIVE #25 by Christos Gage and Humberto Ramos. In which things go South for our heroes. That Norman Osborn is a bad egg to be sure…
AVENGERS INVADERS #12 of 12 by Alex Ross, Jim Kreuger and Steve Sadowski. Our long national nightmare is over.
BARACK THE BARBARIAN: QUEST FOR THE TREASURE OF STIMULI #1 of 4 by Larry Hama, Chris Schons and Rachelle Rosenberg. A humor title featuring a familiar figure. But will a comic book with President Obama on the cover sell? A bit of risk-taking from Devil’s Due Publishing.
DAREDEVIL #119 by Ed Brubaker and Michael Lark. Lady Bullseye and her hangers-on finally come out of hiding. Not good for heroes with horns and their fat sidekicks.
DARK AVENGERS #6 by Brian Michael Bendis and Mike Deodato. Norman Osborn is hearing voices again. And they’re not keeping tempo and harmony.
DARK AVENGERS/UNCANNY X-MEN: UTOPIA #1 by Matt Fraction and Marc Silvestri. The Dark Avengers are sent to San Francisco to keep the hippies in line. Mutants too. Hijinks ensue.
DARK REIGN: SINISTER SPIDER-MAN #1 by Brian Reed and Barry Kitson. The evil Dark Avengers Spidey (who is really The Scorpion/Venom) is living life and eating people. Because somebody’s gotta do it!
DETECTIVE COMICS #854 by Greg Rucka, J.H. Williams and Cully Hamner. Oh sure, you think of this old war horse book of DC’s as another in an endless series of Bat-titles. But what if I told you this one had not one but TWO awesome creative teams and the book was devoted to the two most high-profile, butt-kicking lesbians in the DCU? Got your attention now, eh? Batwoman and The Question every month. Must Have. Highly recommended.
FINAL CRISIS AFTERMATH: INK #2 of 6 by Eric Wallace and Fabrizio Fiorentino. Granted, it’s a spin-off series from a disappointing “event” book, but this one’s actually pretty durn good. A mostly reformed bad guy whose tattoos come to life to hurt other less-reformed bad guys. And it’s set in my new/old hometown of Washington, DC. Worth checking out if only to see if the new Tattooed Man goes after Marion Barry. Recommended.
GOLDEN-AGE STARMAN ARCHIVES VOL. 2 HC by Numerous Legends of the Comics/Sci-Fi Golden Age. Collecting ADVENTURE COMICS #77-102. Thousands of dollars worth of comics for a lot less than you’d pay on E-Bay.
GOTHAM CITY SIRENS #1 by Paul Dini and Guillem March. The adventures of Catwoman, Poison Ivy and Harley Quinn featuring covers that will make you hit puberty all over again. What more can one ask?
GREEN LANTERN #42 by Geoff Johns and Philip Tan. Green vs. Orange! Will power vs. Greed! Must say, on paper I’m betting on Greed. Good luck, Hal.
IMMORTAL IRON FIST #27 by Duane Swierczynski and Travel Foreman. The Final Issue. I guess his kung-fu wasn’t so tough after all. This was a good series and will be missed. Recommended.
JUSTICE SOCIETY OF AMERICA #28 by Jerry Ordway and Bob Wiacek. A Japanese spirit who’s still peeved about the A-bombs takes it to the JSA. Enter their old ally, the Spectre! Of course this is the new Spectre who’s a little less inclined to throw planets at people when he’s moody. Anything can happen. Read it!
NEW AVENGERS #54 by Brian Michael Bendis, Chris Bachalo and Billy Tan. Brother (I mean “Brudder”) Voodoo?!? Are you kidding me, Bendis?! Screw it, I’m rooting for Dormammu….
NORTHLANDERS #18 by Brian Wood and Danijel Zezelj. A Must-Have two-parter about the real story of the Norse Valkyries. “The Shield Maidens” begins here. Highly recommended.
PREVIEWS by Diamond and Marvel Comics. “Uncertain the future is.” Here’s everyone’s best guess for three months from now.
SUPERMAN #689 by James Robinson and Renato Guedes. A dying Mon-El decides to see the world before he cashes in his chips. And hit people.
THOR #602 by J. Michael Straczynski and Marko Djurdjevic. Loki continues rocking all of Thor’s nine worlds. Okay, that sounds dirty. “Loki continues vexing Thor with his/her mischief.” Eh, better. Thor still needs his head examined. Trusting Loki? Too many war clubs to ye olde noggin.
THUNDERBOLTS #133 by Andy Diggle and Roberto De La Torre. Osborne’s hit squad tries once again to take down Songbird. Only Andy Diggle and a few others could make this work. And he does.
UNCANNY X-MEN #512 by Matt Fraction and Yanick Paquette. Mutant chicks, time travel and the first Sentinel. I’m in.
WHATEVER HAPPENED TO THE WORLD OF TOMORROW? HC written and drawn by Brian Fies. A graphic novel by the creator of MOM’S CANCER. This one takes us through an account of growing up from 1939 to 1975 when technology was making promises its creators never quite managed to keep. Does not come with a jetpack, appropriately enough.
WOLVERINE: WEAPONX #3 by Jason Aaron and Ron Garney. Wolvie vs. the Adamantium Men. This is the good Wolverine book, folks. Aaron/Garney. Accept no substitutes. Recommended.
WONDER WOMAN #33 by Gail Simone and Aaron Lopresti. WW puts paid to her evil future zombie self and lots more. The final chapter, at least for some. Gotta look!
X-FACTOR #45 by Peter David and Valentine DeLandro. Madrox meets Doctor Doom. This could be the shortest issue yet.
www.johnjudy.net
Art Spiegelman in today's Post
See "The St. Louis Refugee Ship Blues: Art Spiegelman recounts a sad story 70 years later" for Spiegelman's full-page look at editorial cartoons on the St. Louis, a ship full of Jewish refugees from the Nazis that wasn't allowed to dock in the US. It's an excellent piece of cartoon journalism with a hat-tip to Herblock included. A piece like this shows what newspapers could still be for people.
Saturday, June 20, 2009
That darn Luckovich!
A Cartoonist in Reverse
Washington Post Saturday, June 20, 2009
I have been a Post convert ever since moving to the area in 2001. While dissenting viewpoints are to be expected, Mike Luckovich's June 13 cartoon provoked me.
He depicted four frustrated burqa-clad Muslim women discussing their envy of first lady Michelle Obama, with a turbaned man in the foreground cursing President Obama.
I cannot fathom how this cartoon could have passed muster for inclusion. Surely America has come out of the Stone Ages.
Wasn't it just this month in Cairo that President Obama provided us with several reminders that we need to adjust our own lens to better understand the Muslim world? Speaking explicitly to perceptions of Muslim women, he stated "I reject the view of some in the West that a woman who chooses to cover her hair is somehow less equal" and that "it is important for Western countries to avoid impeding Muslim citizens from practicing religion as they see fit -- for instance, by dictating what clothes a Muslim woman should wear."
I thought that this was finally the spirit of our discourse, but your cartoon diminished some of the strides we're making, reinforced old and tired stereotypes and took us decades back.
-- Vijitha M. Eyango
Silver Spring
Washington Post Saturday, June 20, 2009
I have been a Post convert ever since moving to the area in 2001. While dissenting viewpoints are to be expected, Mike Luckovich's June 13 cartoon provoked me.
He depicted four frustrated burqa-clad Muslim women discussing their envy of first lady Michelle Obama, with a turbaned man in the foreground cursing President Obama.
I cannot fathom how this cartoon could have passed muster for inclusion. Surely America has come out of the Stone Ages.
Wasn't it just this month in Cairo that President Obama provided us with several reminders that we need to adjust our own lens to better understand the Muslim world? Speaking explicitly to perceptions of Muslim women, he stated "I reject the view of some in the West that a woman who chooses to cover her hair is somehow less equal" and that "it is important for Western countries to avoid impeding Muslim citizens from practicing religion as they see fit -- for instance, by dictating what clothes a Muslim woman should wear."
I thought that this was finally the spirit of our discourse, but your cartoon diminished some of the strides we're making, reinforced old and tired stereotypes and took us decades back.
-- Vijitha M. Eyango
Silver Spring
That darn Beetle Bailey!
No Salute for Beetle Bailey
Washington Post June 20 2009
Mort Walker and The Post owe an apology to the men and women of the U.S. military for the June 18 "Beetle Bailey" cartoon insinuating that our armed services have a mission only to "blow things up" around the world. As a veteran and the parent of two servicemen, I believe an apology is also owed to the families whose loved ones died protecting our freedoms, including the right to publish offensive cartoons.
-- Jack Koehler
Annapolis
Washington Post June 20 2009
Mort Walker and The Post owe an apology to the men and women of the U.S. military for the June 18 "Beetle Bailey" cartoon insinuating that our armed services have a mission only to "blow things up" around the world. As a veteran and the parent of two servicemen, I believe an apology is also owed to the families whose loved ones died protecting our freedoms, including the right to publish offensive cartoons.
-- Jack Koehler
Annapolis
June 20, 21: Lucky Luke at NGA
National Gallery of Art
Family Programs
Go West! A Lucky Luke Adventure
June 13 and 20, 10:30 a.m.
June 14 and 21, 11:30 a.m.
ages 7 and up
In French with English subtitles
Based on the popular Franco-Belgian comic book series, Go West! A Lucky Luke Adventure (Tous a l'Ouest: Une aventure de Lucky Luke) is the first feature film about the renowned wandering cowboy who rides Jolly Jumper, fights crime and injustice, and is known to "shoot faster than his shadow." This adventure has Luke leading a group of settlers from New York to California—a trip they have to make in eighty days in order to claim their land from the evil Crook—while also battling the bumbling Dalton Brothers, a gang of robbers who have hidden their loot in a covered wagon but can't remember which one. Filled with sight gags, action sequences, and witty narrative, this comedy entertains both children and adults. (Olivier Jean Marie, France, 2007, 90 minutes)
All film programs are shown in the East Building Auditorium, and admission is free. No registration is required. Seating is offered on a first-come, first-seated basis. Groups are welcome.
Family Programs
Go West! A Lucky Luke Adventure
June 13 and 20, 10:30 a.m.
June 14 and 21, 11:30 a.m.
ages 7 and up
In French with English subtitles
Based on the popular Franco-Belgian comic book series, Go West! A Lucky Luke Adventure (Tous a l'Ouest: Une aventure de Lucky Luke) is the first feature film about the renowned wandering cowboy who rides Jolly Jumper, fights crime and injustice, and is known to "shoot faster than his shadow." This adventure has Luke leading a group of settlers from New York to California—a trip they have to make in eighty days in order to claim their land from the evil Crook—while also battling the bumbling Dalton Brothers, a gang of robbers who have hidden their loot in a covered wagon but can't remember which one. Filled with sight gags, action sequences, and witty narrative, this comedy entertains both children and adults. (Olivier Jean Marie, France, 2007, 90 minutes)
All film programs are shown in the East Building Auditorium, and admission is free. No registration is required. Seating is offered on a first-come, first-seated basis. Groups are welcome.
Friday, June 19, 2009
"A friend to cartoonists gets fired"
The following came in through the e-transom today:
There's sad news out of the Post. They just let Dan Froomkin go-- he wrote their most excellent blog White House Watch, I think it was their first blog even.
He was also a great supporter of cartoonists with a daily feature called "Cartoon Watch" in which he'd point people to the better cartoons offered up that day.
http://voices.washingtonpost.com/white-house-watch/
It wouldn't hurt if people took the opportunity to write in on his behalf.... and maybe also mention how great the Cartoon Watch feature was.
He was also a great supporter of cartoonists with a daily feature called "Cartoon Watch" in which he'd point people to the better cartoons offered up that day.
http://voices.washingtonpost.com/white-house-watch/
It wouldn't hurt if people took the opportunity to write in on his behalf.... and maybe also mention how great the Cartoon Watch feature was.
Major Lazer interviewed on DCist
See:
DCist Interview: Major Lazer [music-related cartoon character].
By Andrew Wiseman in Arts and Events on June 19, 2009
http://dcist.com/2009/06/dcist_interview_major_lazer.php(Tip from Matt Dembicki)
Kyle's Bed and Breakfast strip still in Blade
Kyle's Bed and Breakfast strip is still in the Washington Blade - it's on page 55 of the June 19th issue.
Mike Ritter's editorial cartoon appears again, credited to the Southern Voice / Blade, leading me to wonder if he's permanently replacing Paul Berge (who appeared through syndication).
Mike Ritter's editorial cartoon appears again, credited to the Southern Voice / Blade, leading me to wonder if he's permanently replacing Paul Berge (who appeared through syndication).
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