Washington Post censors Tank McNamara

This time their own reporter, Michael Cavna, notes it as the Washington Post censors Tank McNamara for daring to satirize Dick Cheney because it was "inappropriate" - for details, see "'Dick Cheney' Orders a Hit on Michael Vick: Why YOU Won't See It," By Michael Cavna, Washington Post Comic Riffs August 10, 2009.

To see the strips if you're a Post reader, here's GoComics site. If I'm reading Michael's report correctly, the Post won't run the strips online either so going to their website is pointless.

DC Comic Book Examiner features local vampire reader club

See "Comic Books 101: What comic book Meetups are in the DC area? Part 1," August 9, 2009, by DC Comic Books Examiner Mark Ruffin for details. The group is all-female and just beginning to add comics into their mix. Just for the record, my favorite vampire superhero comic is the run of Captain America by Stern and Byrne where Cap went up against Baron Blood. Paul Grist's current series, Jack Staff from Image, has some good stuff in it too.

Quick Reviews for Comics Due 08-12-09

QUICK REVIEWS FOR COMICS DUE 08-12-09

By John Judy

 

ACTION COMICS #880 by Greg Rucka, James Robinson, Julian Lopez and CAFU.  Nightwing, Flamebird, Supes, Kara, Captain Atom.  That's why they call it ACTION, folks!

 

ADVENTURE COMICS #1 by Geoff Johns, Francis Manapul and Clayton Henry.  Conner Kent's not dead anymore and he wants you to know it!  Plus, Starman, the schizophrenic hero from the future with the great costume and the power to make stuff heavier!  (I have the same power but it only works on myself.)

 

AMAZING SPIDER-MAN #602 by Fred Van Lente and Barry Kitson.  MJ's back but so is… the Chameleon!!!  Yeah, you heard me: The Chameleon, master of disguise!  That is totally impressive if you have no super-powers whatsoever and don't you forget it, mister!

 

BLACKEST NIGHT #2 of 8 by Geoff Johns and Ivan Reis.  My, but these Black Lanterns are saucy chaps and lasses, are they not?  Dead clever stuff.  Recommended.

 

DOMINIC FORTUNE #1 of 4 written and drawn by Howard Chaykin.  A depression-era pulp adventure set in old Hollywood.  A must for Chaykin fans!

 

FAHRENHEIT 451 GN by Ray Bradbury and Tim Hamilton.  A graphic adaptation of Bradbury's classic story of firemen who really expand on the traditional definition of the job.  Highly recommended.

 

JSA VS. KOBRA #3 of 6 by Eric Trautmann and Don Kramer.  Much better than a typical mini, this one's exploring some interesting and timely aspects of religious fanaticism.  Well worth a look.

 

MARVEL COMICS 70^th ANNIVERSARY EDITION #1 by Various Creators.  A little something to honor the first appearances of the Human Torch and the Sub-Mariner.  Oh, and Ka-Zar, Lord of the Jungle.  Him too.

 

MARVELS PROJECT #1 of 8 by Ed Brubaker and Steve Epting.  The item of the week, hands down.  Mr. Brubaker explains it all to you, all the hidden connections in the first days of what would become the Marvel Universe.  First up: The race for the super-soldier!  Highly recommended.

 

RED CIRCLE: INFERNO #1 by J. Michael Straczynski and Greg Scott.  It's about a guy who can catch on fire and not die.  Finally!

 

RED HERRING #1 of 6 by David Tischman and Philip Bond.  A little spy story from the guy who brought you BITE CLUB.  And the artist's name is Bond.  Gotta look!

 

SANDMAN BY JOE SIMON AND JACK KIRBY HC by Joe and Jack.  What it sounds like.  Collecting the run from 1942-1946 in which Wes Dodds switched costumes and got a boy sidekick.  Neat stuff with lots of wild, Golden-Age appeal.  Recommended.

 

STARSTRUCK #1 of 13 by Elaine Lee, Mike Kaluta and Charles Vess.  Back in print after 20 years, this one's got it all:  money, anarchy and gorgeous ladies vying for dominance in a space opera universe.  Sweet!

 

SUPERMAN SECRET FILES 2009 #1 by Various Creators.  All the 411 you need to keep track of the players in the latest Supes sagas.  Helpful.

 

ULTIMATE COMICS: AVENGERS #1 by Mark Millar and Carlos Pacheco.  After ULTIMATUM let's face it, anything will be a vast improvement.  Here it is.

 

ULTIMATE COMICS: SPIDER-MAN #1 by Brian Michael Bendis and David LaFuente.  Ultimate Spidey:  Not drowned anymore!  Possibly crushed!  Certainly bruised, but (very likely) decidedly un-drowned!  That warrants a new first issue, wouldn't you agree?

 

UNCANNY X-MEN #514 by Matt Fraction and Terry Dodson.  Okay, since the Dark X-Men are led by Norman Osborn instead of Professor Xavier shouldn't they really be called the "O-Men?"  Or would that be too creepy?

 

UNWRITTEN #4 by Mike Carey and Peter Gross.  Someone's killing horror writers in the house where Mary Shelley created Frankenstein.  Your future self is so mad at you for not having read this already!  Recommended.

 

WALKING DEAD #64 by Robert Kirkman and Charles Adlard.  The scariest words you can hear in a world of zombies:  "A man's gotta eat."  Not for kids.

 

WEDNESDAY COMICS #6 of 12 by Various Creators.  Sunday newspaper comics from some alternate universe Utopia.  Recommended.

 

www.johnjudy.net

Fantom Comics announces new online subscription process

Here's their PR.

Important Announcement!!!!!   Making proverbial lemons out of lemonade, Fantom management has taken time freed up from managing 2 stores (RIP Tenleytown), and is using it to make the comic book shopping experience better for our customers, our most valuable resource! One such improvement is gradually moving our subscription service to Comixology: http://www.comixology.com/. Comixology is an online comic book resource that will allow you to manage your own subscriptions, ensuring that books are never overlooked. Here's the deal: This is a gradual transition. We recommend you follow the instructions below and sign up for Comixology right away. It really is a very fun website. However, Fantom's pull service will not switch to Comixology until Wednesday, September 2. Prior to that date, we will answer questions, email you your current pull list should you like (email us at info@fantomcomics.com for questions or to request your pull list), and ensure everyone is on the new system in time so nobody gets left behind. Until September 2nd, management will pull only your current subscriptions (or updates you give the clerk at the store, or email to us, per usual). Comixology Instructions (more detailed instructions will be available on the Fantom Comics website by week's end): 1) Log on to http://www.comixology.com/ 2) Sign Up 3) Once you've signed up, and are signed in, connect to Fantom Comics so we can pull your books each week. Paste the following link into your browser for Fantom's page on comixology: http://www.comixology.com/retailers/1157/Fantom-Comics-Union-Station 4) Select the "Retailer Connect" button on the left-hand side of the page 5) Sign yourself up! Note that the sign up fields on some computers come up messy. The first field is for your first name, the second field is for your last name and the third field is for your phone number. Fantom Comics requires your full name and phone number for our records. However, it does not change your username and in no way makes your personal information public! 6) Once you've signed up and connected you can set up your Pull List: a. Search for a title you'd like b. When you find it, either click on "Pull" for just that issue, or "Subscribe" for all issues of that series 7) When you're done selecting the books you'd like, go to the Subscriptions tab to review your choices 8) When you opt to subscribe to a comic book series, the default setting is for the monthly issues of that series. If you hit the Edit button in the Subscriptions page, you'll have the option to request: a. Trade Paperbacks of that title as well as the series b. Just the Trade Paperbacks (by clicking that option and un-clicking the comic option) c. 2nd Printings when on offer d. Variants As stated above, by the end of this week Fantom will have posted all of the rules and guidelines on its homepage. In the meantime, spend the month of August getting comfortable with Comixology and all it has to offer. thanks as always, Fantom Management Union Station - 50 Massachusetts Avenue NE | Washington, DC 20002 | 202-216-9478 www.fantomcomics.com

Another logo donated to us today!

MJ, whose cartoons are syndicated through Newsblaze Publications across the United States and is currently an editorial cartoonist for the National Free Press (Canada), kindly sent in his version of David Hagen's logo today, noting "Just got bored drawing editoons, thought I would do something for a blog I read often. Enjoy." He also notes his cartoons are also carried by Newropeans Magazine (Paris,France) and that he also started cartooning in 2009 for The Nashville Free Press. His cartoons also appear at his Tooned In blog for The National Free Press.

Thanks! I really appreciate it.

MJ is a member of the The International Cartoonist Conspiracy which produced Big Funny, the exhibit and newspaper that I still have to run a review for. [corrected 8/10/09]

Zadzooks on Watchmen game

Zadzooks: Watchmen: The End Is Nigh, the Complete Experience review, Joseph Szadkowski, Washington Times August 2, 2009.

Also Greg Bennett's recommendations - I liked the Parker book quite a bit -

Bennett's Best for the week of July 19
Aug. 3, 2009 Zadzooks blog

Bennett's Best for the week of July 26
Aug. 3, 2009 Zadzooks

Wedding bells rang recently at Big Planet Comics

Big Planet Comics Bethesda recently hosted it's first wedding. Joel reported, "On Sunday, August 2, 2009, Alfredo Ignacio & Becky Kim were married at Big Planet Comics, Bethesda, MD." I wrote back to ask if Alfredo and Becky met at the store, and Alfredo replied "No, we didn't meet at Big Planet Comics. When we first met in 1993, one of the first topics of conversation we had was about the X-Men. I had just moved here from NYC and I started working for a Litigation Support company and that's were I first met Becky. The topic of comic books came up while we were hanging out during one of our breaks. Back then I used to live in the Wheaton/Aspen Hill area, but I'd hit Big Planet whenever I was in the area. I became a regular around late 1996 when I moved to Bethesda." Good for them - I had a similar conversation when I started at the Medical Museum although it was probably Miller's The Dark Knight Returns, but Robert Montgomery and I never dated. ;^) We're still friends though.

I'll echo Joel's Congratulations!

(By the way, that's Joel on the far right of the picture)

Arthur Wheelock caricature by Nate Beeler

Today's free Washington Examiner has a cover caricature by Nate Beeler of National Gallery of Art curator Arthur Wheelock. While that's an unlikely event, it does signify that there's a 2-page profile of one of the top art curators in Washington and should be read by anyone interested in European painting. Judith Leyster, a Dutch woman painter, is the subject of his current exhibit at the NGA.

GEM Hosts Captain Action Book, Exhibit

From Scoop - Where the Magic of Collecting Comes Alive!:

Geppi’s Entertainment Museum (GEM) in Baltimore’s historic Camden Yards sports complex will host a signing on Saturday, August 15, 2009, from noon to 3:00 PM, to mark the debut of the brand new edition of the critically acclaimed Captain Action: The Original Super-Hero Action Figure by Michael Eury. In addition to the author, Ed Catto and Joe Ahearn, the owners of Captain Action Enterprises, will be in attendance for the signing.

The event will also kick off a special exhibit covering the history of Captain Action, from the first action figures in the 1960s to the latest merchandise (and everything in between). The exhibit will run from August 15 through October 13, 2009.

Published by TwoMorrows Publishing, Captain Action: The Original Super-Hero Action Figure chronicles the history of this quick-changing champion, including photos of virtually every Captain Action product ever released. With spotlights on Captain Action, his allies Action Boy and the Super Queens, and his arch enemy Dr. Evil, an examination of his comic book appearances, and more, nearly every facet of the character’s existence is put under the microscope. From the earliest concept stages to the multiple (and supposedly final) demises of the toy line, and from thriving collectibles market to the modern resurgence, no stone is left unturned. It is due in stores on or about August 10.

“When the first edition of Michael Eury’s superb book Captain Action: The Original Super-Hero Action Figure was released, it was rightly referred to by some as a virtual ‘how to’ guide to doing a character-centric reference book. It reached longtime serious collectors, turned casual Captain Action fans into die-hard enthusiasts, and brought many new fans to the character,” said Melissa Bowersox, the museum’s Executive Vice-President. “This is the sort of project that GEM and our patrons are happy to support, and we’re also extremely happy to have the assistance of such passionate, creative fan-owners as Joe Ahearn and Ed Catto to help us present the history of this unique character.”

“We’re very happy to see Captain Action and Michael’s wonderful book given such a spectacular stage. Like many other collectors, Ed Catto and I really enjoy telling other enthusiasts about our favorite character, and this takes that enjoyment to the proverbial next level,” said Joe Ahearn, Partner of Captain Action Enterprises.

The original superhero action figure first arrived on the scene in 1966 with the ability to change into a fantastic range of other incredible heroes, including Superman, Batman, Captain America, Spider-Man, the Lone Ranger, Buck Rogers, and the Green Hornet. He took on their costumes and personas and fought the forces of evil in their places. Produced by the Ideal Toy Company and developed by Stan Weston, who had been involved in the genesis of Hasbro’s G.I. Joe just two years before, Captain Action enjoyed a fairly brief shelf life. The last of Ideal’s original production runs ended in 1968.

In that short time, though, the 12-inch action figure had also doubled for Aquaman, Flash Gordon, the Phantom, Steve Canyon, Sgt. Fury, and Tonto. He had a sidekick, Action Boy (who became Superboy, Aqualad and Robin the Boy Wonder) and a blue-skinned, bug-eyed alien arch foe named Dr. Evil (obviously years before Austin Powers fought another Dr. Evil). There were playsets, vehicles, a headquarters, flicker rings, playing cards, a Ben Cooper Halloween costume, and a fondly remembered five-issue series from DC Comics that included contributions from such legends as Wally Wood, Jim Shooter, and Gil Kane.

As the years followed, Captain Action became the purview of the collecting community. A thriving secondary market developed and kept interest in the character alive within its ranks. In 1998, thirty years after the original production run ended, Playing Mantis brought Captain Action back to the world of new toys. Although their tenure with the toy line would also end after two years, it greatly fanned the flames of interest in the character and the original collectibles, and led eventually to the formation of Captain Action Enterprises, the present day owners of the intellectual property.

The exhibit will conclude just after the Diamond Comic Distributors – Alliance Game Distributors Retailer Summit, which will be held at the BaltimoreConvention Center, immediately across the street from GEM, October 11-13, 2009.

Barks' paintings for sale at Geppi's Museum beginning tonight

An exhibit of Barks paintings is on at Geppi's Entertainment Museum now - I'm uncleard if this article means that you can buy some works that are in the show - Sale Details of Barks Paintings Unveiled, Scoop August 7 2009. The sale starts tonight, at midnight August 7th though if you've got an extra $100K hanging around. As Scoop notes, "Limited edition lithographs, mini-lithos and other pieces will be included, so there will be something for just about every price range up to mid-six figures."

Comic Riffs' Zits interview

After teasing it since Sunday night, he's put it up -

The Interview: 'Zits' Co-Creator Jerry Scott
By Michael Cavna
Washington Post Comic Riffs blog August 6, 2009

Comic collector Mark Zaid in his role as lawyer at large

Local comic book collector Mark Zaid is in today's Post in his secret identity - "Police Chief Tells Driver Ticket for Flashing Lights Was Wrong," By Rick Rojas, Washington Post Staff Writer, August 7, 2009. Mark was ticketed for flashing his lights at the site of a speed trap - which I certainly have done - and fought the ticket.

Superheros and Alter Egos talk at Renwick Gallery

Friday, August 7
Noon

Superheros and Alter Egos

Mark Newport, one of the artists whose work is featured in Staged Stories: Renwick Craft Invitational 2009, shares his approach to knitting oversized superhero costumes that mix adolescent male subject matter with craft techniques usually associated with women.

Program held at the museum's Renwick Gallery on Pennsylvania Avenue at 17th Street NW

Post on Obama as Joker latest tempest in teapot

The August doldrums have struck, so a poster of President Obama overlayed with The Dark Knight's Joker's makeup has become 'news. If you're interested, see "Obama as The Joker: Racial Fear's Ugly Face; 'Political' Poster Turns On Violent Symbolism," By Philip Kennicott, Washington Post Staff Writer, Thursday, August 6, 2009 and the online discussion at "Impact of 'Socialist Joker'," Philip Kennicott, Washington Post Cultural Critic, Thursday, August 6, 2009.

Onion on terra-cotta mousketeers find

Today's Onion has an article about a new archeological discovery -
Legion of Terra-cotta Mouseketeers Found Beneath Disney World, Onion (August 6 2009): 1, 6.

National Geographic is opening an exhibit of the Chinese warriors in the fall - perhaps some of the Mouseketeers will sneak in.

Eternal Smile reviewed in Kids Post page

See Mary Quattlebaum's "Colorful Tales for a Hot August," Washington Post Wednesday, August 5, 2009  for a review of THE ETERNAL SMILE By Gene Luen Yang and Derek Kirk Kim.

 

Bamn at Baltimore Comic Con

Troy Allen reports

It's official! The Bamn Crew will be walking into the Baltimore Comic Con on October 10th thru October 11th of 2009! (Okay, okay...we'll be walking out October 10th and walking back in October 11th). The Baltimore Comic Con is THE biggest comic convention on the East Coast, and we will be joining the wave of independent comic artist peddling their books in "Artist Alley."
Here is more from the Baltimore Comic Con website:

 Contact us at BamnCan@hotmail.com 

Comic Riffs reports Iranian cartoon boycott

It's a bit off Michael's usual beat, but here's the story - "Iranian Cartoonists Plan to Boycott Famed Biennial," By Michael Cavna, Washington Post Comic Riffs blog August 4, 2009.

Ben Templesmith Signing

Laughing Ogre Comics will be hosting a signing with Ben Templesmith on August 08, 2009 from 12:00pm - 4:00pm at their Lansdowne, VA store. The Laughing Ogre webpage says 12-8, but Ben Templesmith's sas 12-4, so I'm guessing he's right (plus that's an awful long time for a signing!!!).

Laughing Ogre Comics
Lansdowne Shopping Center
19340 Promenade Drive
Lansdowne,VA 20176

[here's Templesmith's blogpost on it - Mike]

Weldon on the success, or failure, of graphic novels

Weldon, Glen.  2009.
Tension Deficit Disorder: Why Some Comics Work - And Some Don't.
National Public Radio's Monkey See blog (August 5)

Early comic art toy licensee dies

Mrs. Raymond licensed Disney, Superman, Mighty Mouse (according to the NY Times obit), Little Orphan Annie and probably other comic characters for her toy company. See two obituaries for her -

Lynn Pressman Raymond, 97, Executive A Pioneer Of Toy Ads, Packaging
By Lauren Wiseman
Washington Post Staff Writer
Wednesday, August 5, 2009

Grimes, William.  2009.

Lynn Pressman Raymond, Toy Executive, Dies at 97.

New York Times (August 2).

Online at http://www.nytimes.com/2009/08/02/business/02pressman.html

Carla Speed McNeil wins Eisner award

I don't really pay attention to the awards coming out from the San Diego Comic-Con so I missed this piece that local artist Carla Speed McNeil won an Eisner for her formerly-print comic Finder. Here's the award citation:

Best Digital Comic

Finder, by Carla Speed McNeil

 Thanks to Jeff at Big Planet Comics for the tip!

Shawn Martinbrough on Luke Cage

Shawn Martinbrough talks about his Luke Cage artwork at Black Superhero Luke Cage Ignites Marvel Comics, by Lynette Holloway, Black Voices Jul 31st 2009. The article says he lives in Washington and NY - I thought he'd left the area, but I guess not completely.

Ponyo swag at Japanese Information and Culture Center

At the recent Lupin III screening at the Japanese Information and Culture Center, the JICC gave out Ponyo hangers and sticker books. Darn, what a missed opportunity! Jim C did give me his copy of the sticker book though which is now safely filed under Miyazaki as I await Ponyo's release.

Catching up with Kevin Rechin

I was lucky enough to stop in to the studios of portrait painter Seth Haverkamp* and cartoonist Kevin Rechin tonight. Kevin shared quite a few of his current projects with me - he's been busy. He's doing the search-a-picture for Highlights Magazine, a book for Klutz on exploding household objects that comes out in October, Orkin ties (doing bugs for them like the great Jack Davis), Country magazine cartoons illustrating the 'good' old days, and truly odd towel animal illustrations for Currents magazine, the official magazine for Carnival Cruise. Kevin's work is both funny and lovely - he's a dab hand with watercolor. He had some absolutely beautiful sketches of Ireland from a recent trip there too - you could practically smell the sheep. Check out his website, and enjoy.

*Seth's work is lovely too, but he's not a cartoonist.

Feiffer exhibit closes this weekend

If you haven't seen it, the Feiffer exhibit at American University closes this weekend. Here's our earlier post with the information. I'm not going to make the show, but if there's a brochure, I'd appreciate getting one.

Richard Thompson caricatured in Lio

Here's Richard's blog post about being in Sunday's Lio.

Animator Dina Babbitt's obituary in Post

It's in today's Metro section. However, it's a LA Times wire story that's not online, so here's the New York Times version - the animator had become well-known in the past year for attempting to reclaim paintings she did in a death camp. See Dina Babbitt, Artist at Auschwitz, Is Dead at 86 By BRUCE WEBER, August 2, 2009.

Baltimore's Tim Kreider in the NY Times and NPR on surviving attempted murder

Tim Kreider, whose cartoons appeared in the Baltimore City Paper until the beginning of this year, has been blogging for the NY Times. Here's links to 3 of the 4 articles (I linked to the 4th some weeks ago). The first story begins "Fourteen years ago I was stabbed in the throat."

Reprieve
By Tim Kreider
New York Times' Happy Days blog June 2, 2009

A Note from Tim Kreider
By Tim Kreider
New York Times' Happy Days blog June 4, 2009

Averted Vision
By Tim Kreider
New York Times' Happy Days blog August 2, 2009

And here's Tim on NPR (which ends by noting he's working on a 3rd collection of his cartoons - yay! The first two are available from Fantagraphics):

Conan, Neal. 2009.
Cartoonist Has Happy Year After Eluding Murder.
National Public Radio's Talk of the Nation (June 16).
online at http://www.npr.org/templates/story/story.php?storyId=105481759

Fourteen years ago, cartoonist and author Tim Kreider was stabbed in the throat. He survived, and after his "unsuccessful murder," he wrote in a blog post for the New York Times, he wasn't unhappy for an entire year.

Kreider talks about how getting a second chance has altered his perspective on life.

Aug 3: Fantastic Four 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

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

QUICK REVIEWS FOR COMICS DUE 08-05-09

QUICK REVIEWS FOR COMICS DUE 08-05-09
By John Judy

ABSOLUTION #1 of 6 by Christos Gage and Roberto Viacava. John Dusk is a super-hero who decides to stop playing nice. Moral quandaries ensue.

AGENTS OF ATLAS #9 by Jeff Parker and Dan Panosian. Jimmy Woo has to fight his ex-girlfriend and her killer robot. Don’t we all?

ALL-WINNERS COMICS #1: 70th ANNIVERSARY SPECIAL by Karl Kesel and Steve Uy. “Old Soldiers Never Die” especially at the House of Ideas! Zombies in Times Square! Who could tell? Fun stuff!

AMAZING SPIDER-MAN #601 by Mark Waid and Mario Alberti. America’s favorite redhead is back and I don’t mean Danny Bonaduce! “Face it, Tiger, you hit the continuity problem jackpot!” (But it’s Waid so it’ll be fine.)

ASTRO CITY: THE DARK AGE BOOK THREE #4 of 4 by Kurt Busiek and Brent Anderson. Those Williams brothers are in a heap o’ trouble. Recommended.

BLACK PANTHER #7 by Reginald Hudlin, Jonathon Maberry and Will Conrad. The all-new, all-pretty Black Panther takes the reins now that everyone wants to mess with a Wakanda weakened by battle. Poor, dumb everyone. You think they would have learned….

BOYS #33 by Garth Ennis and Darick Robertson. The cold war between the Boys and the supes just keeps getting hotter. Not for kids. Recommended.

BUFFY THE VAMPIRE SLAYER #27 by Jane Espenson and Georges Jeanty. Having stranded her Slayer-Submarine in the mountains of Tibet, Buffy must now place her fate in the hands of a werewolf. But it’s cool because it’s Oz and he’s, y’know, cool. We love Jane Espenson on this book and so do you. Highly recommended.

CAPTAIN AMERICA REBORN #2 of 5 by Ed Brubaker and Bryan Hitch. The good guys and the bad guys race to get to Steve Rogers who is, unbelievably I know, NOT DEAD ANYMORE! Okay, who had “2 years, 5 months” in the pool? You in the Hulk sweatshirt? Right, you get the gift certificate, dinner for two at Wendy’s and our undying respect and love. But we’re all winners here, right? Get it? “ALL-WINNERS?” I’m here all week, folks…

DOOM PATROL #1 by Keith Giffen, Matthew Clark, J.M. DeMatteis and Kevin Maguire. The all-new adventures of DC’s favorite freaks! And if that ain’t enough you also get a back-up feature of the original Rock ‘Em, Sock ‘Em Robots, Doc Magnus and the Metal Men! Gotta look!

FINAL CRISIS AFTERMATH: RUN #4 of 6 by Matthew Sturges and Freddie E. Williams II. “Trashy humor and unnecessary violence… property damage and hideous disfigurement…!” Okay! Recommended!

GHOST RIDERS: HEAVENS FIRE #1 of 6 by Jason Aaron and Roland Boschi. Johnny Blaze and Danny Ketch have to save the Anti-Christ to save the world. And wouldn’t that be a great catch-phrase for a network TV show?

HULK #13 by Jeph Loeb and Ed McGuinness. Wicked Norman Osborn sends Ares the God of War to puzzle out the identity of the Red Hulk (or “Rulk” if you must), although any fanboy who hasn’t figured this one out after last issue’s Ego the Living Planet-sized clue really needs to hang up their purple pants and go back to Komics Kindergarten. Or become a story editor at Marvel.

IRREDEEMABLE #5 by Mark Waid and Peter Krause. A little number from the author of KINGDOM COME about a good guy going bad. Really horrifyingly good. Recommended.

IRREDEEMABLE, VOL. 1 SC by Waid and Krause. The first four issues collected for you latecomers. Recommended.

JUSTICE LEAGUE: CRY FOR JUSTICE #2 of 7 by James Robinson and Mauro Cascioli. Hal and Ollie’s splinter group of pre-emptive butt-kickers gets their game on. Watch out, evil-doers! Here comes Congorilla and the blue Starman!

POLITICAL POWER #1: COLIN POWELL by Wey-Yuih Loh, Matt Flyer and Vinnie Tartamella. A little something different, a biography in comics form about a man who might have been President if he hadn’t been a Republican.

RED CIRCLE: THE HANGMAN #1 by J. Michael Straczynski, Tom Derenick and Bill Sienkiewicz. The first of the old Archie heroes gets relaunched here! He hangs people! Sometimes. Other times he prevents it. It evens out mostly. OK, honestly this one’s gonna be a tough sell, but it has The Great Straczynski at the keyboard so that’s a big plus.

SECRET SIX #12 by Gail Simone and Nicola Scott. The gang fights Wonder Woman.

SUPERMAN: WORLD OF NEW KRYPTON #6 of 12 by Greg Rucka, James Robinson and Pete Woods. Someone gets shot on New Krypton. But everyone there’s bulletproof, so what’s the harm?

WALKING DEAD, VOL. 10: WHAT WE BECOME SC by Robert Kirkman and Charles Adlard. Collecting WD #55-60 in which the survivors of the zombie plague begin their trek to Washington D.C. and safety. Boy, if they only knew… Recommended. Not for kids.

WARREN ELLIS FRANKENSTEIN’S WOMB GN by WE and Marek Oleksicki. That nice Mister Ellis takes on Mrs. Shelley and her lad. Not for kids.

WEDNESDAY COMICS #5 of 12 by Various Creators. By now you’re either in love with this Newspaper Comics Section of the Gods or you’re not. If you’re not you can stop reading this now.

www.johnjudy.net

Fwd: Matt Dembicki's 'Xoc' #1 available

Matt Dembicki's got a new comic out - here's the info...

From: Matt Dembicki <threecrowspress@gmail.com>


Hi, folks

Just wanted to drop a note that my new mini, Xoc #1, is available (see attachment for cover). It's about the journey of a great white shark across the Pacific and its encounters along the along. If you liked my book Mr. Big, you'll probably like this. Xoc (pronounced "Shock") is more intense and has a stronger message. 

If you'd like to buy a copy, the book is $2 (includes shipping). Let me know if you're interested and I'll e-mail my mailing address for checks or my PayPal account for e-orders.

Thanks for your time!

Matt

Comics Riffs has some Zits news

Check out Cavna's scoop on Zits here. It's news so big he had to break it on Sunday.

AAEC's Cartoons for the Classroom features Berryman's lame duck

The AAEC's Cartoons for the Classroom feature, which links editorial cartoons to the news for students, uses Clifford Berryman's lame duck cartoon from the National Archives this week.

Brodner beer and Obama illo in today's Post

Steve Brodner has nice caricature buried in the Outlook section.

DC Comic Books Examiner: Comic/Pop Culture-con and Dog Day sales

Comic/Pop Culture-con and Dog Day sales Saturday, August 1, 2009 Tyson's Corner Comic-con Sunday, Aug. 2, Capital Associates hosts the Comic Book & Pop Culture Convention. Held at the Dunn Loring Volunteer Fire Dept., the 10:00 a.m. - 3:00 p.m. comic-con's admission is $3.00 dollars. In addition to a large ... Read more » DC Comic Books Examiner, Mark Ruffin Mark Ruffin, a reader of comics for over twenty years, is a freelance writer who tirelessly generates awareness for the Non-Fraternity Conversation and Write-up on Comic Books. Contact Mark here.

Dallas McKennon, Disney animation voice, obituary in Post

Dallas McKennon, Gave Voice to Many Animated Characters
By Lauren Wiseman
Washington Post Staff Writer
Saturday, August 1, 2009

Baltimore Comic-Con Ticket Sales at Upcoming Shows

Baltimore Comic-Con Tickets Now Available!   Baltimore, Maryland - August 1, 2009 - Tickets can now be purchased for the 2009 Baltimore Comic-Con in person or online.  Tickets to the Baltimore Comic-Con, taking place on Saturday, October 10th and Sunday,  October 11th at the Baltimore Convention Center, will be available in person at our store, in person at shows around the country, and on-line.   Cards, Comics, and Collectibles, our retail store, participates in comic-book conventions all over the country, and sells tickets to the Baltimore Comic-Con during our visits.  The first show to offer in-person sales of tickets to the Baltimore Comic-Con will be this Sunday, August 2nd at the Capital Associates Comic Convention in Tyson's Corner, VA.  Additionally, we will be exhibiting at Wizard World Chicago Comic-Con (Booth 1610), taking place August 6-9, 2009.   In addition to meeting us at you local comic book convention, ticket purchases can be made through Ticketmaster.    For Saturday Tickets, click here! For Sunday Tickets, click here! For Weekend (2-Day) Tickets, click here!   As in prior years, you can also purchase your ticket at our retail location Cards, Comics, and Collectibles, located at 100A Chartley Dr., Reisterstown MD 21136.  The store hours are M-T: 12pm-6:30pm, W: 2pm-7:30pm, T-F: 12pm-7:30pm, Sa: 11am-7pm, Su: 12pm-5pm.      Please take advantage of the chance to purchase tickets early.  If you attended the show last year, you know that we are continuing to grow in size, which resulted in lines both Saturday and Sunday morning of the show.  On-site ticket sales are limited by logistics and convention center resources.  By purchasing your ticket early, you can avoid having to wait in line to purchase tickets.  Instead of standing in another line, you will be able to come on in and meet your favorite artists, writers, and creators!   About The Baltimore Comic-Con The Baltimore Comic-Con is celebrating its 10th year of bringing the comic book industry to the Baltimore and Washington D.C. area. With a guest list unequaled in the industry, the Baltimore Comic-Con will be held October 10-11, 2009. For more information, please visit www.baltimorecomiccon.com.   About The Harvey Awards The Harvey Awards are one of the comic book industry's oldest and most respected awards. With a history of over 20 years, the last 4 in conjunction with the Baltimore Comic-Con, the Harveys recognize outstanding achievements in over 20 categories. They are the only industry awards nominated and selected by the full body of comic book professionals. For more information, please visit www.harveyawards.org.

Science Idol cartoon contest underway again

The Union of Concerned Scientists is running its annual editorial cartoon contest now. There are 12 cartoons to choose from.

Baltimore Comic Con tickets go on sale at Aug 2 Capital Associates con

Our co-blogger and BCC pr man tells me that tickets will go on sale at the Capicons show at the Dunn Loring fire dept this Sunday. Here's the Capicons info:


*******************************************************************
- FREE Admission – YES, FREE Admission for the Sun, Aug 2 show. Bring all your friends and it won’t cost a penny to get in the door, which means MORE money to buy comics!

- If you receive a postcard in the mail before the show, PLEASE BRING POSTCARD TO THE SHOW. This will ensure that you continue to receive postcards in the future.


*******************************************************************

Our next Tysons Corner Monthly Comic & Pop Culture Show will be on Sun, Aug 2 at the Dunn Loring Volunteer Fire Department. The show is open to the public from 10 am - 3 pm. Admission for this month’s show is FREE.

Buy, sell and trade: gold, silver age and new comics; Magic and other gaming cards; non sport cards; videos and DVDs; anime; Horror; Sci-Fi; figures, toys; Star Wars and Star Trek memorabilia; original artwork, posters, T-shirts/clothing and various other comic related items.

Vendors confirmed for this show, including LOTS of new vendors!!
21st Century Sandshark Studios
All-American Comics
Bear Butt Comics
Cards Comics & Collectibles
Doug Cheshire
Comics to Astonish
Michael Creager
Everyday Comics
FANDATA
Steve Frederick
Donald Gehl
Jamie Hicks
Tim Larson
Mendez
Jim Montgomery
Outpost Station
Silver Fox Comics
TNT Comics
Vindictive Apparel
Welcome Back Comics
Zeno's Books
...and more!

The Dunn Loring Volunteer Fire Department (directions – please see below) has a 70-space parking lot. Plus, there is a school behind the fire department with hundreds of parking spaces that are rarely used on the weekends.

To get to the Dunn Loring Volunteer Fire Department (located about 20 minutes west of Washington, D.C.). Take I-495 (DC/Capital Beltway) to Exit 47A (Rt 7 West). Go 1/2 mile, Take a Left on Gallows Rd and proceed 1 mile to 2148 Gallows Rd.

Or visit our website for detailed directions and Mapquest directions:
http://www.capicons.com/directions_dlvfd.htm

Venue Address:
Dunn Loring Volunteer Fire Department
2148 Gallows Road
Dunn Loring, VA 22027

Also, if you receive a postcard reminder for the event, PLEASE BRING THE POSTCARD TO THE SHOW. This will ensure that you continue to receive postcards in the future.

If you do not receive a postcard before the show and would like this reminder, please visit our website and sign up for our mailing list:
http://www.capicons.com/contact_customer.htm

Or print out the following form, complete it and bring it to the next show:
http://www.capicons.com/door_prize_entry_form.htm

If you have any other questions, please visit our website:
http://www.CapiCons.com

Weldon, Cavna on San Diego Comic-Con

"Comic-Con: The Post-Mortem," by Glen Weldon, National Public Radio's Monkey See blog July 29, 2009.

Michael Cavna had a few quotes from 3 of my favorite cartoonists, including Our Man Thompson. The other two are Keith Knight and Stephan Pastis.

August 7: Superheroes and Alter Egos artist at Renwick

Friday August 7, 2009

 Superheroes and Alter Egos 

12:00 PM

Grand Salon
Renwick Gallery

Mark Newport explores notions of gender, masculinity, and fatherhood by knitting oversized superhero costumes drawn from pop culture. Join Newport as he discusses his unique approach to portraying masculinity by using nontraditional materials. Come early to see his work in the new exhibition Staged Stories: Renwick Craft Invitational 2009.

 

 

 

"Herblock!" Exhibition Opens Oct. 13

Library of Congress
101 Independence Avenue SE
Washington DC   20540

July 30, 2009

"Herblock!"
 New Exhibition at Library of Congress Opens Oct. 13

Features 82 Original Drawings from Library's Herb Block Collection

WHAT: The Library of Congress celebrates the 100th anniversary of the birth of political cartoonist Herb Block, known to the world as Herblock, with an exhibition that looks at his entire 72-year career, which began in 1929 under President Herbert Hoover and concluded in 2001 during the presidency of George W. Bush.

Through his compelling cartoons, Block influenced public opinion and affected prominent elected officials.  U.S. Sen. Joseph McCarthy publicly denounced Block, and President Richard Nixon disparaged the cartoonist as "a master of sick invective."

The exhibition, which features 82 original cartoon drawings selected from the Library's Herb Block Collection, will illuminate Block the man, as well as his mastery of the art of the political cartoon.

WHEN: Oct. 13, 2009 to May 1, 2010

WHERE: The Library of Congress' Thomas Jefferson Building, 10 First St. S.E., Washington, D.C.

# # #

PR09-149
7/30/09
ISSN: 0731-3527

 

The ToonSeum Goes MAD for Tom Richmond

This was supposed to go to the International Journal of Comic Art blog, where I post information about exhibits on comics, but since I sent it here by accident, here it stays because I like Tomo Richmond's work and the idea of the ToonSeum.

For Immediate Release
The ToonSeum
At the Children's Museum of Pittsburgh
(412)325-1060
joe@toonseum.com

The ToonSeum Goes MAD for Tom Richmond
The ToonSeum  is proud to present "Tom Richmond: The MAD Art of Caricature," an exhibition of original caricatures and parodies by one of MAD Magazine's stand-out artists.
Richmond, a member of MAD Magazine's Usual Gang of Idiots since 2000, has skewed pop culture icons, political figures, movie stars, even President Obama's dog. His style and technique carry on in the great tradition of MAD Magazine legends such as Mort Drucker and Jack Davis.
Richmond's work appears in publications, films and comics worldwide. His company also provides caricature artists for some of the nation's top theme parks. His recently completed book "Bo Confidential: The Secret Files of America's First Dog" will make its debut this weekend at the ToonSeum!

The "MAD Art of Caricature" also gives a behind-the-pen-and-brush look at Richmond's parodies of movies, including "Harry Plodder,"  "Spider-Sham," "Battyman Begins," "30 Crock," "Obama's Inauguration" and many more.
"The ToonSeum is proud to take MAD out of the teacher's trash can and put it on museum walls where it belongs," says ToonSeum Executive Director Joe Wos. "Tom is truly a master of mockery, and we are delighted to present his work at the ToonSeum."
Richmond will drop by the ToonSeum Aug. 1 for book signings,and demonstrations. More information is available at www.toonseum.org.

The exhibit runs from Aug. 1  through Oct. 4 at the ToonSeum, which is located inside the Children's Museum of Pittsburgh on the city's historic North Side.


Workshop info: On Friday August 1st the ToonSeum will present a special Caricature Master Class.
The MAD Art of Caricature with Tom Richmond, Master Class
Learn the art of caricature from one of its true masters!
August 1st 2009, 5pm-6:30pm . The ToonSeum at the Children's Museum of Pittsburgh
Cost: $50, Students and NCS Members $35
The ToonSeum presents a special master class with caricature artists and magazine illustrator Tom Richmond of MAD Magazine fame. This is a rare opportunity for anyone interested in improving their skills, learning about how to break into magazines, and more.
Purchase online at  http://www.brownpapertickets.com/event/73723


What: "Tom Richmond: The MAD Art of Caricature"
When: Aug. 1-Oct. 4
Where: ToonSeum at the Children's Museum of Pittsburgh on the city's historic North Side, 10 Children's Way, Allegheny Square.
Cost: ToonSeum admission is included with paid admission to the Children's Museum, which is $10 for children 2-18 and seniors; $11 for adults
Details: 412-325-1060 or www.toonseum.com
For questions, art for print or an interview, please contact ToonSeum Executive Director Joe Wos at joe@toonseum.com.

==============================================
Thank you for your support of the cartoon arts.

Unsubscribe mrhode@gmail.com from this list:
http://toonseum.us1.list-manage.com/unsubscribe?u=44a11ba2be8e10861fcde5f8f&id=c314d18807&e=b8d8f64fca&c=8544fc5f56

Our mailing address is:
The ToonSeum
10 Children's Way
Pittsburgh, PA 15212

Our telephone:
412-325-1060

Matt Wuerker art in California exhibit

For information, see "The Tattoon Show, Friday, Aug 28 12:00p, at Eclectix Gallery, El Cerrito, CA" - tattoos may be involved. Matt?

Nevin Martell interviewed about his Calvin & Hobbes book

Local writer Nevin Martell is interviewed about his Calvin & Hobbes book - see "TIGER HUNTING: Author tracks elusive Calvin & Hobbes creator Bill Watterson, and more in this week's Scene and Heard," by D.X. Ferris, Cleveland Scene July 29 2009.

NPR's Weldon on Alan Moore's Superman story

In "Sleep Well, Superman: A Classic Reissued," by Glen Weldon, National Public Radio's Books We Like (July 28, 2009), he reviews Alan Moore and Curt Swan's Whatever Happened to the Man of Tomorrow? which was one of the best Superman stories ever written, largely because Moore and Swan obviously loved and respected the previous 50 years of stories and Superman's iconic status. As Weldon notes, "Moore penned a sweeping, surprisingly tender elegy to Superman's rich, primary-colored history, superdog and all. The character had died previously (and since, famously, in 1992), but the superhero comic is a land of dream sequences, clones and regeneration where death is not so much an ending as a plot point. Moore's story, in contrast, is a culmination; even 23 years later, it stands as a moving farewell to the Superman most of us grew up with."

Moore's throw-away story of Superman meeting Swamp Thing from DC Comics Presents is included, and along with the Mongul story, present three excellent interpretations of the Superman mythos.

It took another 22 years, and another writer from Great Britain, Grant (All-Star Superman) Morrison, to even come close to the tenor of Moore's work.

Lincoln Peirce of Big Nate picks Cul de Sac as best new strip

In the uncredited "An Interview with Lincoln Peirce," Comics Insight blog July 28 2009, the anonymous interviewer asks Peirce (whose Big Nate appears in the Post):

And lastly, what would you pick as the best comic strip launched within the last decade?

“Cul de Sac.” Hands down.

Amen to that.

Our Man Thompson's fan club continues...

Comic Riffs chat today at 11 am

Comic-Con Wrap: Vote Now for Best Fan Costume

NOTE: Today at 11 a.m., join Comic Riffs for a live chat about San Diego Comic-Con International 2009.

Straight Dope on Superman's diamonds

The Straight Dope column in the July 24th City Paper is on whether or not Superman could make diamonds by squeezing coal. It's also online.

PR - Celebrate Marvel's 70th Anniversary With Your Local Comic Shop!

Here's some (edited by me) PR from Marvel. It appears that a decent amount of close Maryland stores are participating - including ones in Laurel, Reisterstown, Owings Mill, Baltimore and Annapolis. When you look at the list, it's sorted by state abbreviation, so MD comes after MA. In Virginia, there's Laughing Ogre in Fairfax and Painted Visions in Woodbridge. Nobody appears to be participating in DC.

 

Celebrate Marvel's 70th Anniversary With Your Local Comic Shop!

On August 11th, 2009, comic fans all over will celebrate Marvel's 70th
Anniversary at their local comic shops and we've got the complete list
of participating retailers. Click over to
http://marvel.com/news/comicstories.8874 to download a full list of
retailers participating in Marvel 70th Anniversary parties, offering
exclusive limited edition variants, early on sale release of The Marvels
Project #1, special sales, and more! All retailer parties begin at 9pm
local time. As a special thank you to retailers, Marvel is sending a
limited edition Captain America: Reborn #2 70th Anniversary Frame
Variant to all participating stores!

For more information on Marvel's 70th Anniversary, head over to
www.marvel.com/70. And remember-Make Mine '39!

--

Arune Singh | Manager of Sales Communicatons

Marvel Entertainment

Bob Mankoff

From upper Wisconsin Avenue, Moment Magazine editor Nonna G has let me know about this interview - "A Moment with New Yorker Cartoonmeister Bob Mankoff," by Nadine Epstein, Moment Magazine July/August 2009. Mankoff's got a good take on the roles of Jews in humor and vice versa, and answers the question "Who are your favorite Jewish cartoonists?"

I stand in awe of what Mankoff had done with the New Yorker's cartoons - while at Rehoboth Beach recently I saw New Yorker cartoon puzzles! What a great idea. (picture to follow when I figure out how to get them off my phone).

July 27: X-Men 3 The Last Stand 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

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

Cartoon Tuesdays at Lincoln Theater

The Post reports that Lincoln Theatre at 1215 U St, NW shows free cartoons on Tuesday at 11 am and 1 pm. Call 202-328-6000 to confirm. Looney Tunes and Happily Ever After are featured.

A Harvey Pekar interview I missed

I found quite a few interviews for my book Harvey Pekar: Conversations, including some that didn't make it into the book for one reason or another, but here's one I missed completely: My 2004 interview with Harvey Pekar.

John McPherson won't be speaking on the National Debt

John McPherson won't be speaking on the National Debt - he was sunk by Senate opposition (Borked, can we say?). See "'Close to Home' Cartoonist McPherson's Public Debt Gig Scrapped," By E&P Staff, July 24, 2009.

QUICK REVIEWS FOR COMICS DUE 07-29-09

QUICK REVIEWS FOR COMICS DUE 07-29-09

By John Judy

CITIZEN REX #1 of 6 by Mario and Gilbert Hernandez. “What compels life without a soul?” No, it’s not a biography of Dick Cheney. It’s a sci-fi adventure about a scandalized robot in a world he never made. For fans of LOVE & ROCKETS and good comics everywhere. Recommended.

DARK REIGN CROSS-OVERS by Tons o’ People. Let’s see, there’s HAWKEYE, HOOD, LETHAL LEGION, SINISTER SPIDER-MAN and YOUNG AVENGERS. Go completists, go! It’s feeding time at the DARK REIGN trough! Good luck!

DETECTIVE COMICS #855 by Greg Rucka, JH Williams III and Cully Hamner. Batwoman and the Question do the detecting thing and look really good doing so. Hey, if you’re gonna call yourselves Batwoman and/or the Question you better be at the top of your game. Otherwise people will talk.

FANTASTIC FOUR #569 by Mark Millar and Stuart Immonen. The Marquis of Death must pay for his treatment of Doom! And for being French!

GARTH ENNIS BATTLEFIELDS: TANKIES #3 of 3 by Garth and Carlos Ezquerra. It’s end-game as the lads must finally face the deadly German tiger tank. Riveting wartime adventure. Recommended.

GHOST RIDER: LAST STAND SC by Jason Aaron and Tan Eng Hut. Continuing Aaron’s run on this hellfire and booze-fueled cycle circus originally published in GHOST RIDER #26-32.

IGNITION CITY #4 of 5 by Warren Ellis and Gianluca Pagliarani. Mary Raven’s in the firefight of her life armed with naught but her dead dad’s raygun and her own spunk to see her through. Bet on the Ellis uber-chick.

JUSTICE SOCIETY OF AMERICA #29 by Bill Willingham, Matthew Surges and Jesus Merino. A new creative team adds two new characters to the JSA roster. But will they last?

KID COLT #1 by Tom DeFalco and Rick Burchett. It’s a Tom DeFalco comic and a Western. That makes it twice as unusual in today’s market.

NEW AVENGERS #55 by Brian Michael Bendis and Stuart Immonen. It’s a new issue and Brother Voodoo is still the sorcerer supreme. And you thought Bucky America was a lot to accept.

NORTHLANDERS #19 by Brian Wood and Danijel Zezelj. “The Shield Maidens” wraps up with the ladies inflicting some serious choppage. Highly recommended.

NORTHLANDERS, VOL. 2: THE CROSS AND THE HAMMER SC by Brian Wood and Ryan Kelly. Collecting Northlanders #11-16. An Irishman rebels against his Viking rulers. It’s awesome. Highly recommended.

PREVIEWS by Marvel and Diamond Comics. See what you’ll be reading, wearing and playing in three months time!

STUFF OF LEGEND #1 of 2 by Mike Raicht, Brian Smith and Charles Paul Wilson III. In 1944 a small boy is dragged into his closet by the Boogeyman. Now it’s up to his toys to go in and rescue him. Great fun for reading at bedtime, especially if the kids have been naughty. Gotta look!

SUPERMAN #690 by James Robinson and Renato Guedes. Mon-El: Still dying.

THUNDERBOLTS #134 by Andy Diggle and Miguel Angel Sepulveda. Be honest, did anyone ever think Songbird would be so tough to kill? I mean, her name is “Songbird” for crying out loud! And now it’s like Wolverine and Keith Richards had a kid and he wasn’t a tattooed, mohawked moron! I digress… Good comic, worth a read or three.

ULTIMATUM #5 of 5 by Jeph Loeb and David Finch. The last issue. Lots of people dead. For now.

ULTIMATUM: SPIDER-MAN REQUIEM #2 of 2 by Brian Michael Bendis, Mark Bagley and Stuart Immonen. Ultimate J. Jonah Jameson continues his weepy eulogy for Ultimate Almost Certainly Dead Spidey.

WEDNESDAY COMICS #4 of 12 by Lotsa Awesome People. So ya say ya want Hawkman by Kyle Baker? Metamorpho by Neil Gaiman? A Kamandi adventure in the style of Prince Valiant? We have that and a lot more! Metal Men! Flash! Green Lantern! It’s a smorgasbord! Highly recommended.

WONDER WOMAN #34 by Gail Simone and Aaron Lopresti. It’s WW and Black Canary! What a pair! Recommended!

www.johnjudy.net

Remembering Buck Rogers

Buck Rogers started as a pulp novel, moved to comic strips, then radio, then serials, then tv. He's had a long life.

Paging Buck Rogers
Washington Post Saturday, July 25, 2009

Reading Jennifer Ouellette's July 19 Outlook article, "Apollo With Warp Drive? Make It So," was an enjoyable trip through 20th-century science fiction.

Not mentioned were the radio space adventures of "Buck Rogers in the 25th Century," which ran in the 1930s and '40s. It was one of the earliest of the juvenile adventure series portraying the characters of Buck, Wilma and friends from the future continuously battling the evil forces led by Killer Kane and Ardala.

Listeners of the radio program also heard of the marvelous inventions and ways of the future. I would surmise that they were not too surprised at hearing of the 1969 moon landing.

-- Edwin Morgenstern

Silver Spring

That darn Toles continued

Don't Blame the GOP
Washington Post Saturday, July 25, 2009


It is silly to expect objectivity from any editorial cartoonist, but Tom Toles's July 21 cartoon, which blamed Republicans for the delay since 1993 in enacting health-care reform, ignored both historical and current fact.

It was a Democratic-controlled Congress that rejected the Clinton administration's "Hillarycare" health-care reform plan in 1994, before Republicans swept to a majority in both the Senate and House.

And, of course, it is impossible not to notice that Democrats once again control both houses of Congress, so if they reject the "Obamacare" version of health-care reform this year, the Republican minority once again cannot be at fault.

-- Lynda Meyers

Arlington

DC Comic Books Examiner: Big Monkey Comics: one of a kind eclectic - Conclusion

Big Monkey Comics: one of a kind eclectic - Conclusion Friday, July 24, 2009 "What heroes I read as a kid were the same ones my grandfather read when he was a child. My times are different than my grandfather's but the mores that make the heroes still matter…because comics are not only idyllic but form a ... Read more » DC Comic Books Examiner, Mark Ruffin Mark Ruffin, a reader of comics for over twenty years, is a freelance writer who tirelessly generates awareness for the Non-Fraternity Conversation and Write-up on Comic Books. Contact Mark here.

Cul de Sac slips into Pearls

Stephan Pastis gave a tip of the hat to some of the cartoonists he'll be meeting in San Diego - including Our Man Thompson.

San Diego Comic Con in Wash Post

The print version has an Associated Press article, although Comic Riffs' Michael Cavna, a Post editor, is there.

Annual Comics Issue of A.V. Club in The Onion

This year's edition of A.V. Club's Comics Issue in The Onion contains three features: Reinventing the Pencil: 4 Artists Who Changed Mainstream Comics (For Better or Worse); Interview with Michael Kupperman; and an Interview with Grant Morrison. The website's contents are more thorough, and additionally have features worth checking out like Seth on Classic Cartoonists and Illustrators, an Interview with Steve Bissette, Gateway to Geekery: Love and Rockets, and Recommended First Comics.

The 4 Artists feature is arguably accurate as well as insightful. It provides background on each of the creators and why they're worth mentioning. The Kupperman interview is interesting, though doesn't tickle the funny bone the way Tales Designed to Thrizzle does (if you have not read this, do yourself the favor). The Morrison interview does a good job of providing insight into some of the more controversial issues surrounding his work, his approach to working, and where he'd like to go next creatively.

Last year, they featured Bendis. This year, Morrison. Perhaps next year, Brian K. Vaughn?

Weldon on webcomics

For Glen Weldon's take, see "Webcomics: An Annotated Guide for the Understandably Perplexed," National Public Radio's Monkey See blog (July 21 2009). For myself, I love the idea, but tend to buy the paper compilations.

DC Comic Books Examiner: Big Monkey Comics: one of a kind eclectic Part 2

Big Monkey Comics: one of a kind eclectic Part 2 Thursday, July 23, 2009 "People new to buying comics will tell me they 'don't know what comics there are'. So I ask them what they like…books, movies, or anything else. From there I can point out some suggestions for them based on their own ... Read more » DC Comic Books Examiner, Mark Ruffin Mark Ruffin, a reader of comics for over twenty years, is a freelance writer who tirelessly generates awareness for the Non-Fraternity Conversation and Write-up on Comic Books. Contact Mark here.

Zadzooks reviews Wednesday Comics, among others

Zadzooks: Comic book reviews, Sub-Mariner, Wednesday Comics and more," Joseph Szadkowski, The Washington Times July 22, 2009.

Comic Riffs also asks, "How about that San Diego Comic-Con"

What's interesting is that Cavna asks Aragones, Johnston, Gaiman, Pastis and Lee. He also adds insult to injury by caricaturing them.

See "San Diego Comic-Con: 5 Star Cartoonists Do the Time Warp Again," by Michael Cavna, Washington Post Comic Riffs blog July 22 2009.

Cavna, along with Richard Thompson, is at the Comics Con, thus providing a sizable DC contingent.

Comic Riffs asks "Why is Frazz on the kid's page?"

Save Frazz: What Strip Would YOU Send to KidsPost? asks Cavna