The Comic Thread

[muddi900]

Apparently there's enough interest in comics to spawn one multi-page thread, why not a dedicated one.

First we start off, like all good things, with a new music/superhero mash-up from Cliff Chiang:

http://i385.photobucket.com/albums/oo299/muddi900/comics/final-CMYKweb.jpg

For those who don't know, DC just announced that they are revamping their whole line i September, with 52 #1 issues starting with a new Justice League. All of which will be available in digital the same day as print.

Discuss. Or Don't. Just pop in to mention a comic you are reading, a la the Book thread.

*recommended reading list forthcoming*

Super Mega Necro Edit:
I know I said will post a list of recommendations, but I never got around to it and it wouldn't be definitive enough any way, so I say you should check out A Year of Cool Comics by Brian Cronin:
http://goodcomics.comicbookresources.com/2010/01/01/the-year-of-cool-comics-archive/

It isn't definitive either, but it is far more comprehensive than anything I could've come up with. There is also Comics You Should Own by Greg Burgas:
http://goodcomics.comicbookresources.com/2010/09/05/comics-you-should-own-archive/

It is more critical, and very well written.

[Xerxes]

Slash isn't real. He's just one of our parents dressed up as Slash.

[muddi900]

That's Zatana!

But was Slash ever real?

[muddi900]

Also, this is why CBR blogs>>>>>>>>>>>>>CBR

http://robot6.comicbookresources.com/2011/06/because-nothing-says-mainstream-comics-like-a-good-decapitation/

[Jeffool]

I think this is the time I mention that a pal of mine has an ongoing comic out from Image that just started up a few months ago, Li'l Depressed Boy! He's been doing the character forever, but only just recently got in with Image. A few others on CoG have sampled the wares, so I hope you'll consider it too.

http://i.imgur.com/GV8xe.jpg
(Click for a preview!) (http://tinyurl.com/ldb03preview)

And issue 04 just come out on Comixology today!

[Xerxes]

That's Zatana!

But was Slash ever real?

I knew who it was. Just sharing South Park sentiment and how she does look like Slash. No doubt intentional, but Trey and Matt maybe on to something.

[DoctorFinger]

I've been going back and forth on the DC reboot, but I'm starting to warm to it. Mostly because it's ballsy. DC traditionally never takes chances, they play everything safe and consequently never hit one out. Marvel does ballsy things (love em' or hate em') but DC didn't.

The reboot could be an abject failure, but it could also revolutionize the industry.

[Ghostbear]

I think this "reboot" will be a soft one at most. Since it appears to be up to individual creators to decide the level they are mixing things up. On another note, I am currently chewing through a lot of old Marvel Essentials. Holy crap, Bill Mantlo on Spider-Man is awesome. Overarching stories,yet stuff is often wrapped up in each issue. It's fun, occasionally corny, occasionally gritty comic stories.

[Savok]

If that band isn't canon soon I'm blaming Didio.

[Xerxes]

I think what I hate most about the reboot is all the titles.

[Savok]

They're fucking obsessed with 52 aren't they?

"Our sales are through the floor, we have to take drastic action"

"MORE BOOKS!"

Hawkman will last all of 5 minutes. Aquaman has the wrong writer. God knows how they're filling 52 of the god damn things.

[Ghostbear]

I just a Daily Planet series, a la Gotham Central. I want to see Clark Kent being a reporter, I want to see Lois kick some ass.

[Savok]

A good, interesting idea and precisely why you'll never see it.

[DoctorFinger]

So let's try to figure out the 52 books. Here are the books which are either confirmed or sure things

Justice League
JLI
Batman
Detective Comics
Batwoman
Superman
Action Comics
JSA
Teen Titans
Hawkman
Aquaman
Green Lantern (at least 2 books)
Red/Rainbow Lanterns
Flash
Wonder Woman
Legion of Super Heroes
Static

Then we have the rumored titles:

Justice League Dark
OMAC
Batgirl
Nightwing
Birds of Prey
Blue Beetle
Firestorm
Shazam
Swamp Thing
Adventure Comics (with Deadman possibly)
'Edge' (whatever that is)

I think we can safely assume at least 2 more Bat-family titles and at least 2 more Superman-family titles. Which puts us at 33.

DiDio and Lee have said they'll be doing books in a bunch of different genres, so we can assume:

Jonah Hex/other western
Adam Strange/space opera
Warlord/fantasy book

So we're at about 36. Any other guesses?

[muddi900]

They're fucking obsessed with 52 aren't they?

"Our sales are through the floor, we have to take drastic action"

"MORE BOOKS!"

Hawkman will last all of 5 minutes. Aquaman has the wrong writer. God knows how they're filling 52 of the god damn things.

According to CBR, their are 56 regular series in June. After discounting for all miniseries and tie-ins.

EDIT: I know John Rogers is a TV big shot now and Rafael Alberquerque is kicking American Vampire ass, but Giffen and Sturges are both free, especially since Jack of Fables is over. And I know Editorial and corporate loves Jaime Reyes...I really want that Blue Beetle book.

Also, can you believe that a Jonah Hex series lasted longer than Green Lantern befire being renumbered.

[Xerxes]

56 is just way too much. I think aside from Batman, Superman, Green Lateran, Flash and JL, no one should be expecting a long running series. They have enough solid premiere writers/artist to divide that shit out to. Hell, I'd leave them to only one book. I'd probably put Action and Detective on hiatus to show this reboot is serious business.

Everything else would operate as miniseries at start. And when a chain of miniseries prove successful, you get a book. Otherwise you get cancelled, wrap it up and tha character just fades into the DCU background.

I just think if you rebooting everything, you do it slowly. You can't say everything is new and fresh for everyone now. Go buy 56 comics to figure out what's good and what's still shit.

[DoctorFinger]

And now Bleeding Cool is reporting that one of the #1s will be a Grifter solo book (http://www.bleedingcool.com/2011/06/01/dc-relaunch-wildstorm/). So they're going to incorporate the Wildstorm U into the DCU? I don't think that's a good idea.

[muddi900]

I know Brian Wood had a plan for a wildstorm reboot, but Bleeding Cool, while a reliable source, has been throwing around wild speculation ever since this thing started.

[roboninja]

Am I wrong, or is this not almost exactly like the whole Heroes Reborn (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Heroes_Reborn) fiasco from Marvel in the 90s?

[digitalErich]

John Constantine is now part of DCU proper, I wonder if we'll get a new Hellblazer in this pile of 52 books.

[digitalErich]

Am I wrong, or is this not almost exactly like the whole Heroes Reborn (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Heroes_Reborn) fiasco from Marvel in the 90s?
I'm not saying this DC thing will be good, but I don't really see any similarities, outside some generalizations that are so high level as can be said of any major comics event.

[roboninja]

I'm not saying this DC thing will be good, but I don't really see any similarities, outside some generalizations that are so high level as can be said of any major comics event.

Aren't they being "reborn" into a different universe, all starting with #1 titles?

[Xerxes]

And now Bleeding Cool is reporting that one of the #1s will be a Grifter solo book (http://www.bleedingcool.com/2011/06/01/dc-relaunch-wildstorm/). So they're going to incorporate the Wildstorm U into the DCU? I don't think that's a good idea.

See this is a waste. A fucking Grifter line? :confused:

I'm down to 53 already. What else can I trim.

[muddi900]

Well, no Rob Liefeld is nowhere to be seen.

But to the point, it's just a retcon with some publishing brouhaha.

[pronounconnoun]

Batgirl
Nightwing


@rinichanraar will flip her shit if she finds out about this.

Why isn't @ working? Oh god, she needs to know!

[Shieldmaiden]

To be honest, this could get me buying some DC titles on a regular basis, which is kinda the point. I'm pretty much the target audience for this kind of reboot; I like comics, read stuff that is recommended to me, try and keep up with what is happening to characters I like, but I'm completely bewildered and overwhelmed whenever I set foot in a comic book store.

[muddi900]

Yeah, Nightwing isn't coming back!
ever!

EDIT: Well not ever!

[digitalErich]

Aren't they being "reborn" into a different universe, all starting with #1 titles?
Like someone already said, this is more editorial driven. Sure, there will be stories to explain stuff, but Heroes Reborn was more terrible for it's lame plot than the editorial stuff behind bringing those heroes back.

[pronounconnoun]

Someone needs to punch reality, now!

Also, who's playing drums. I can only make out Zatana, Wonder Woman, and Black Canary.

[muddi900]

Dove, of Hawk and Dove. I think I have some of Chiang's older mashups in my photobucket.

EDIT:

http://i385.photobucket.com/albums/oo299/muddi900/500x_custom_1274897140987_pink-phoe.jpg

http://i385.photobucket.com/albums/oo299/muddi900/batgirl-color.jpg

http://i385.photobucket.com/albums/oo299/muddi900/elektra-flashdance.jpg

http://i385.photobucket.com/albums/oo299/muddi900/titan-club.jpg

[pronounconnoun]

Ah, Dove. Makes sense.

"Don't you forget about me."

[zarathstra]

I figure Green Arrow will probably also get a book. Maybe it will even be good...

[DoctorFinger]

DC has announced the first 10 new titles, (http://dcu.blog.dccomics.com/2011/06/02/the-new-justice/) some of which are very interesting.

http://dcu.blog.dccomics.com/files/2011/06/jla_cv11-150x150.jpg (http://dcu.blog.dccomics.com/files/2011/06/jla_cv11.jpg)On Tuesday, we made the announcement in USA Today (http://www.usatoday.com/life/comics/2011-05-31-dc-comics-reinvents_n.htm) that DC was undertaking a historic renumbering of 52 superhero titles across the line, starting with JUSTICE LEAGUE #1 by our superstar creators Geoff Johns and Jim Lee. The cover to issue #1 is by Jim Lee and Scott Williams.
http://dcu.blog.dccomics.com/files/2011/06/wwv2_cv1-150x150.jpg (http://dcu.blog.dccomics.com/files/2011/06/wwv2_cv1.jpg)We’re announcing today that several of DC’s most iconic heroes will receive historic new first issues spinning out of the pages of Geoff Johns and Jim Lee’s JUSTICE LEAGUE:
New York Times bestselling writer Brian Azzarello, author of The Joker and 100 Bullets, teams up with the immensely talented artist Cliff Chiang (Neil Young’s Greendale) for WONDER WOMAN #1, an exciting new series starring the DC Universe’s greatest superheroine. The cover to issue #1 is by Cliff Chiang.
http://dcu.blog.dccomics.com/files/2011/06/aqm_cv1-150x150.jpg (http://dcu.blog.dccomics.com/files/2011/06/aqm_cv1.jpg)Geoff Johns, one of comics’ greatest storytellers, reunites with GREEN LANTERN and BRIGHTEST DAY collaborator Ivan Reis to bring you a thrilling new take on the fan-favorite hero of the sea in AQUAMAN #1. The cover to issue #1 is by Ivan Reis and Joe Prado.
http://dcu.blog.dccomics.com/files/2011/06/flsv3_cv1-150x150.jpg (http://dcu.blog.dccomics.com/files/2011/06/flsv3_cv1.jpg)Rising superstar Francis Manapul, fresh off his acclaimed run on THE FLASH with Geoff Johns, makes his comics writing debut in THE FLASH #1, sharing both scripting and art duties with Brian Buccellato. The Flash knows he can’t be everywhere at once, but what happens when he faces an all-new villain who can? The cover to issue #1 is by Francis Manapul and Brian Buccellato.
BRIGHTER DAYS

http://dcu.blog.dccomics.com/files/2011/06/firestorm_cv1-150x150.jpg (http://dcu.blog.dccomics.com/files/2011/06/firestorm_cv1.jpg)Welcome to a major new vision of the Nuclear Man as writers Ethan Van Sciver and Gail Simone team up with artist Yildiray Cinar to deliver THE FURY OF FIRESTORM #1. Jason Rusch and Ronnie Raymond are two high school students, worlds apart – and now they’re drawn into a conspiracy of super science that bonds them forever in a way they can’t explain or control. The cover to issue #1 is by Ethan Van Sciver.
http://dcu.blog.dccomics.com/files/2011/06/svghkman_cv1-150x150.jpg (http://dcu.blog.dccomics.com/files/2011/06/svghkman_cv1.jpg)Batman writer Tony Daniel will team up with artist Philip Tan (GREEN LANTERN: AGENT ORANGE, THE OUTSIDERS) for THE SAVAGE HAWKMAN #1. Carter Hall’s skill at deciphering lost languages has led him to a job with an archeologist who specializes in alien ruins – but will the doctor’s latest discovery spread an alien plague through New York City? No matter the personal cost, Carter Hall must don his cowl and wings and become the new, savage Hawkman to survive. The cover to issue #1 is by Philip Tan.
http://dcu.blog.dccomics.com/files/2011/06/ga_cv1-150x150.jpg (http://dcu.blog.dccomics.com/files/2011/06/ga_cv1.jpg)Oliver Queen is an orphan who grew up to fight crime as the Green Arrow, a billionaire playboy who uses his fortune to become a superhero – able to fight the most powerful super-villains in the universe with nothing but a bow and arrow. JT Krul will write GREEN ARROW #1 with art by superstar artist Dan Jurgens. The cover to issue #1 is by Brett Booth.
GLOBAL JUSTICE

http://dcu.blog.dccomics.com/files/2011/06/jlifinalcover1-150x150.jpg (http://dcu.blog.dccomics.com/files/2011/06/jlifinalcover1.jpg)A team of internationally-drafted superheroes fight each other and their bureaucratic supervisors as much as they do global crime in JUSTICE LEAGUE INTERNATIONAL #1 from writer Dan Jurgens and artist Aaron Lopresti. The cover to issue #1 is by Aaron Lopresti.
Thttp://dcu.blog.dccomics.com/files/2011/06/mr_terr_cv1-150x150.jpg (http://dcu.blog.dccomics.com/files/2011/06/mr_terr_cv1.jpg)he world’s third-smartest man – and one of its most eligible bachelors – uses his brains and fists against science gone mad in MISTER TERRIFIC #1, the new series from writer Eric Wallace and artist Roger Robinson. The cover to issue #1 is by J.G. Jones.
http://dcu.blog.dccomics.com/files/2011/06/catom_cv1-150x150.jpg (http://dcu.blog.dccomics.com/files/2011/06/catom_cv1.jpg)Captain Atom has all the power in the world, but no hope of saving himself. Charged by nuclear energy, possessing vast molecular powers, he has the potential to be a god among men – a hero without limits. But the question is this: Will he lose himself in the process? JT Krul and artist Freddie Williams II take the character in a bold new direction in CAPTAIN ATOM #1. The cover to issue #1 is by Stanley “Artgem” Lau.
http://dcu.blog.dccomics.com/files/2011/06/dcu_presents_1_final_400-150x150.jpg (http://dcu.blog.dccomics.com/files/2011/06/dcu_presents_1_final_400.jpg)BRAVER AND BOLDER

The anthology series gets a new look in DC Universe Presents, a new series that will focus on multi-issue story arcs each featuring a different superhero from the DC Universe’s rich cast of characters, told by some of comics’ most exciting writers and artitsts. DC UNIVERSE PRESENTS #1 kicks off the first arc of the series: a Deadman story by Paul Jenkins and Bernard Chang. The cover to issue #1 is by Ryan Sook.Chang and Azzarello on Wonder Woman sounds incredible. So does Gail and Van Sciver on Firestorm and Jurgens & Lopresti on JLU. I love Mr Teriffic, but I haven't read enough of Wallace's stuff to get a read on him (his Titans book supposedly isn't good, but that could be due to the concept forced on him)

[digitalErich]

I like the concept of that DC Universe Presents book. I can only assume that's Barry...I wonder what Wally's place will be in this new structure.

[Savok]

Well Green Arrow and Captain Atom are write offs. Strange writer choices for Firestorm and Wonder Woman.

Nice to see Mr Terrific get some attention in a "SCIENCE!!" capacity, hopefully they don't fuck it up.

And finally, fucking finally a book where you can just do one off stories about the universe. Closest we got before was Brave and the Bold but that always required a team-up.

[muddi900]

DC has announced



Chang and Azzarello on Wonder Woman sounds incredible. So does Gail and Van Sciver on Firestorm and Jurgens & Lopresti on JLU. I love Mr Teriffic, but I haven't read enough of Wallace's stuff to get a read on him (his Titans book supposedly isn't good, but that could be due to the concept forced on him)

Yeah Cliff Chiang needed to be on any book fast.

But when they announced JLI I had thought Winick or Giffen would write it. Not interested.

And Hawkman is an archealogist now...

[Ghostbear]

Yeah Cliff Chiang needed to be on any book fast.

But when they announced JLI I had thought Winick or Giffen would write it. Not interested.

And Hawkman is an archealogist now...

I think Jurgens will be great on JLI, and Hawkman has been an archaeologist for... well forever. At least the "carter hall" version was.

[digitalErich]

Yeah, I'm not a Hawkman person, but at some point in the past one of them was an archeologist. That's where the whole Egypt-related angle came in.

[DoctorFinger]

The tagline for the new Savage Hawkman is pretty good, although I'm not really sold on Tony Daniel's writing. The few issues of Batman he did before I jumped off were uninspired and dull.

[Savok]

The current Hawkman's origin is ALL of them mashed together in this hideous complexity. Really if anything needs an Emoboy Prime retcon punch it's his convoluted mess.

And fuck Tony Daniels for what he did to Riddler.

[muddi900]

Since I made this for comics that aren't coming out in september as well:

http://ryan-a.com/comics/roof.htm

Very good!

EDIT: Tom Brevoort is at it again. This time he's...defending DC?

[muddi900]

Today they announce the Green Lantern books:

GREEN LANTERN #1

Geoff Johns has been charting the adventures of Hal Jordan and the GREEN LANTERN Corps since GREEN LANTERN: Rebirth, collaborating with such major artists as Ethan Van Sciver, Darwyn Cooke, Prentis Rollins, Marlo Alquiza and Mick Gray.

This fall, Johns reunites with artists Doug Mahnke and Christian Alamy, as the series begins anew with GREEN LANTERN #1 with cover by Ivan Reis and Joe Prado. Together they will continue to thrill readers and expand the Green Lantern mythos.

Change is coming. But set aside your fear. It’ll be worth the wait.

GREEN LANTERN CORPS #1

When deadly conflicts emerge across the universe, it’s up to Guy Gardner, John Stewart and an elite Green Lantern strike force to keep the peace.

GREEN LANTERN CORPS #1 will be written by Peter J. Tomasi with art by Fernando Pasarin and Scott Hanna. The cover to #1 is by Doug Mahnke and Christian Alamy.

GREEN LANTERN: THE NEW GUARDIANS #1

Who are The New Guardians?

The power of Rage, Avarice, Fear, Will, Hope, Compassion and Love combine to be the most powerful (and colorful) team in the corps under the leadership of Kyle Rayner. Beware their power . . . and their volatility!

GREEN LANTERN: THE NEW GUARDIANS #1 will be written by Tony Bedard and illustrated with cover by Tyler Kirkham and Batt.

RED LANTERNS #1

Going solo. Atrocitus and his Red Lantern Corps return in their own series, battling against injustice in the most bloody ways imaginable. This Lantern Corps takes no prisoners, they are judge, jury and executioners!

RED LANTERNS #1 will be written by Peter Milligan with art and cover by Ed Benes and Rob Hunter.

http://www.comicbookresources.com/?page=article&id=32612

[Savok]

Kyle leading anything is a terrifying thought. Still, glad Hal has his own book so I can ignore the shit out of him. John's still a GL as well, wonder if his recent actions are gonna be retconned.

Red Lanterns makes me nervous, I love the corps but their own book? Unless it's cover to cover of Ragecat it's going to be painfully 90s.

[muddi900]

Meanwhile Bryan Lee o'malley posted this on twitter:
http://instagr.am/p/FLXxG/

[muddi900]

Batman books today:

Batman #1 - Scott Snyder and artist Greg Capullo focus on the solo adventures of Bruce Wayne in his role as the one and only Batman. Readers of Snyder's terrific ongoing run in Detective Comics will be relieved to see he's still patrolling the streets of Gotham.

Detective Comics #1 - A little flip flop here, as Tony Daniel and Scott Snyder swap roles. Previously the writer/artist on Batman, Daniel will now script and draw Detective Comics. The Gotham Ripper is listed as the first new threat.

Batman & Robin #1 - Peter Tomasi and Patrick Gleeson return to B&R, this time chronicling the adventures of Bruce and Damian.

Batman: The Dark Knight #1 - A second volume of David Finch's written and drawn series with assists from Jay Fabok. This new series is unrelated to the two-issue first volume and sees Batman entrenched in Arkham Asylum.

http://www.ifanboy.com/content/articles/snyder__daniel__tomasi_and_finch_take_the_batman_b ooks_back_to__1


So that means Batman Inc. is over. BOOOOOO!

Also, there are Nightwing and Catwoman cover hovering around on the interwebs.

[Ghostbear]

I wish Tony Daniel would stop trying to write. He's terrible at it.

[Savok]

Bruce and Damien? Ugh. And Daniels on a renumbered 'Tec? FUUUUUUUUUUUU

Still, no more Batman Inc (which while inherently stupid, was leading to interesting things happening around the edges). Wonder how the drug addict feels about having the rug pulled?

Also begs the question, how long has this reboot been planned? Batman Inc was basically the only thing at DC that sold and was far from being over. Suddenly it's jettisoned? Must say suddenly throwing everything away mid arc is becoming more common at DC, as Greg Rucka would attest.

[Xerxes]

See this is what's annoying to me. Batman "Bruce" is in four different books?

[muddi900]

Bruce and Damien? Ugh. And Daniels on a renumbered 'Tec? FUUUUUUUUUUUU

Still, no more Batman Inc (which while inherently stupid, was leading to interesting things happening around the edges). Wonder how the drug addict feels about having the rug pulled?

Also begs the question, how long has this reboot been planned? Batman Inc was basically the only thing at DC that sold and was far from being over. Suddenly it's jettisoned? Must say suddenly throwing everything away mid arc is becoming more common at DC, as Greg Rucka would attest.

Or Stracynski. But that guy is a tool, so we dont talk about him.

Also, Sweet Tooth vol3 comes out this week. It's the latest Vertigo series still ongoing. I dont know how long the imprint has.

[Savok]

In my experience some writers just naturally mesh with only one of the Big Two. With JMS that is very obviously Marvel... mind you I did enjoy his Wonder Woman for what it was (alt universe as opposed to new canon).

[Joshkdmw]

Okay, I think I'm gonna take the plunge and start actually reading comics. Never really got into them so much. So I need some advice. 2 things:

1) I want to start off with some deadpool. He intrigues me. Where do I get started, assuming I know nothing about him. Like, origin stories, first appearances, that sport of thing.

2) I would really like to read these on my android tablet (2.2 froyo). Is there a reliable and legal way to do this, or do I just have to start looking for trades around town?

I'm also looking for some recommendations on good comic reading, but only give me one or two each, huh? If I get a whole shit-ton, most of them won't get read.

[J Arcane]

Comixology has an app for Android, and that's who all the publishers actually go through. The Marvel and DC apps on iOS are just reskinned, single-pub versions of the Comixology app.

EDIT: NM, apparently Marvel has some kind of exclusivity arrangement with iOS.

.cbr files for you, I guess.

[Joshkdmw]

Okay, I have the comixology app. What are some must-read DC works?

[Xerxes]

Confirm: No TPBs only single books?

I never used it but I prefer a TPB.

[J Arcane]

Confirm: No TPBs only single books?

I never used it but I prefer a TPB.
No TPBs in the digital apps.

[Savok]

Deadpool was once my favourite character, Marvel of course has ruined that now. Now only a shadow of himself he used to actually have a personality besides "random funny".

Deadpool as a full blown character started with his first ongoing back in 97/98. Written by Joe Kelly it basically started with DP deciding to be less of a jerk (he was keeping an old blind lady as his prisoner/live-in maid, so he was a pretty big jerk). This kicked off what I see as a 10 year character arc of self improvement.

After Joe Kelly left the quality of his book became.... questionable, never really spiking up again until Gail Simone appeared in one of her earliest writing jobs towards the end. Her run led into another series called Agent X, which may or may not star Deadpool, ambiguity! It was good stuff anyway.

Once Agent X finished its short run we got Cable & Deadpool written almost entirely by Fabian Nicieza (who actually created Deadpool). This was the book that made two 90s relics very popular again. Too popular because editorial stuck their dick in to the extent it basically became a Deadpool solo again at some points because Cable was off limits. Somehow this never affected the quality too much and it ended with a wonderful 50th issue that completed the 10 year character arc.

Then Daniel Way came along and ruined everything. Marvel's become good at ruining things.

[Hemalin]

More Bat-books and Batman Inc. is getting a reboot (http://www.ifanboy.com/content/articles/Grant_Morrison_s_BATMAN_INC__Lives_On_in_2012__And _the_Writer_May_Surprise_You___) too.
Batwoman #1 written by J.H. Williams III, Haden Blackman and art by Williams III and Amy Reeder
Batgirl #1 written by Gail Simone and artist by Ardian Syaf and Vicente Cifuentes
Birds of Prey #1 written by Duane Swierczynski with art by Jesus Saiz
Catwoman #1 written by Judd Winick and illustrated by Guillem March
Nightwing #1 written by Kyle Higgins with art by Eddy Barrows
Red Hood and The Outlaws #1 written by Scott Lobdell with art by Kenneth Rocaforthttp://www.ifanboy.com/content/articles/Let_s_Hear_It_For_The_Boys__Dick_Grayson_in_NIGHTW ING__1__Jason_Todd_in_RED_HOOD___THE_OUTLAWS__1__T im_Drake_in____um___
http://www.ifanboy.com/content/articles/More_Batfamily_Books_Announced_From_DC__Batwoman__ Batgirl__Birds_of_Prey____Catwoman

Still no Tim Drake and Stephanie is no longer Batgirl.

[muddi900]

In my experience some writers just naturally mesh with only one of the Big Two. With JMS that is very obviously Marvel... mind you I did enjoy his Wonder Woman for what it was (alt universe as opposed to new canon).

He actually prefers DC. as shown by his short but brilliant Brave & the Bold run.

Edit:
Loved Bryan Q. Miller's Batgirl. I guess it's a move to make it more accessible to newer readers, but Bah! and Humbug!

Also, no Tim Drake...

The only new Batbooks that look interesting are Batwoman, because it probaly wont have anything to do with anything.and Snyder/Capullo Batman.

[Savok]

I don't care what he likes, I care what's readable :p

His B&B issues were fantastic though.

I'm in a strange spot now, it's becoming obvious they're not just tweaking things but having a full on Crisis... so why bother to keep reading? I mean this has all happened (and so suddenly) due to cataclysmic mismanagement and ineptitude, making so much of a mess it became unrecoverable. Now the people who made the mess get to fuck it up all over again from the start?

[muddi900]

Batman inc is also returning:
http://goodcomics.comicbookresources.com/2011/06/06/batman-inc-1-to-return-in-2012/

[Savok]

This in or out of canon?

[DoctorFinger]

Batman Inc is supposed to have 12 more issues wrapping up Grant's run on the character, so I assume that it will just be a renumbered continuation. But I've been wrong before.

I've also read that Bryan Q Miller is probably still on some book at DC, but it just hasn't been announced yet.

[muddi900]

They are also doing Batwing, the African Batman.

[DoctorFinger]

I love that at least 2 different outlets called the new Batwing "African-American" even though he's just straight up African. I know that some people think calling someone black is insensitive, but you can't just use African-American as a substitute in every situation.

[DoctorFinger]

More new DC books announced (http://shelf-life.ew.com/2011/06/07/dc-comics-swamp-thing-frankenstein/):

- Scott Snyder on Swamp Thing

- Jeff Lemire on Animal Man

- Justice League Dark by Peter Milligan about an occult League featuring John Constantine, Deadman, Shade the Changing Man and Madame Xanadu.

- Demon Knights by Paul Cornell is about super-heroism set in medieval times

- Frankenstein, Agent of SHADE by Jeff Lemire. The writer is again Jeff Lemire, taking the Frankenstein monster and turning him/it into an action hero alongside other fictional monsters in the service of a government organization: The Super Human Advanced Defense Executive Frankenstein is a must read, and the others are intriguing to say the least.

[Savok]

Expanding their supernatural stuff then, nice to see. Still don't trust their ability to do this.

[Xerxes]

I love that at least 2 different outlets called the new Batwing "African-American" even though he's just straight up African. I know that some people think calling someone black is insensitive, but you can't just use African-American as a substitute in every situation.

So a bootleg Wakanada King? Fuck that.

[Xerxes]

Justice League Dark by Peter Milligan about an occult League featuring John Constantine, Deadman, Shade the Changing Man and Madame Xanadu.

Sounds like a bootleg Midnight Sons. Part of me thinks Etrigan would fit on the team.

[DoctorFinger]

More titles announced (http://dcu.blog.dccomics.com/2011/06/07/dc-embraces-its-dark-side/), and the previous 'dark' books get covers and artists.

Abnett & Lanning on Resurrection Man with Fernando Dagnino
Josh Fialkov and artist Andrea Sorrentino on I, Vampire.
Voodoo (the Wildstorm character) by Ron Marz with art by Sami Basri

So far a lot of these DC Dark books sound awesome.

We still need to hear about the Superman books (which are supposed to be announced at a film fest this weekend by Lee & Johns) and the rest of the DC heroes books (Blue Beetle, Multiverse, etc)

[Savok]

Resurrection Man? I love the guy but they really are just throwing everything at a wall and seeing what sticks.

[DoctorFinger]

Why not? Take chances, try some new things. Also, I'd bet a bunch of these lower profile books were already in the works for some time now, and are coming out now around the reboot.

And as someone noted on Twitter: no Xombi in the Dark section means the book is probably canned. Which is a damn shame, since it's awesome.

[Savok]

I'm not saying they're bad, fuck they interest me more then any JLA crap. That's the problem, they're interesting and nothing sells worse then that. These things aren't going survive 12 issues unless they get some massive cult following.

[Xerxes]

Why not? Take chances, try some new things. Also, I'd bet a bunch of these lower profile books were already in the works for some time now, and are coming out now around the reboot.

And as someone noted on Twitter: no Xombi in the Dark section means the book is probably canned. Which is a damn shame, since it's awesome.

Holy shit! I forgot DC merged the Milestoneverse into it's own. Xombi would of be PERFECT for the JLA Dark. :eek:

[muddi900]

Man that Xombi book with Frazer Irving just began. :(

[Xerxes]

Did any of the new Xombi books ever come out? I read the first 4 issues of the original run it was good stuff. Great character.

They should have a book called Heavy Metal where Steel and Hardware form a company and fight crime and butt heads along the way.

[Savok]

Holy shit! I forgot DC merged the Milestoneverse into it's own. Xombi would of be PERFECT for the JLA Dark. :eek:
I wouldn't worry too much, DC forgot too.

Dammit we miss you Dwayne.

[Xerxes]

I wouldn't worry too much, DC forgot too.

Dammit we miss you Dwayne.

Sometimes I look back at his last tweet. :(

Taking a break from a script I owe to attend the LA premiere of All-Star Superman. Wish me luck!

I wonder if Static will get any play now.

[muddi900]

There was new Static series announced.

[J Arcane]

Apparently, Batman #1-25 were posted on the DC Comics app the other day.

[Savok]

Oh, oh god, the 90s just vomited on DC (http://dcu.blog.dccomics.com/2011/06/08/the-next-generation-of-justice/).

[Xerxes]

There was new Static series announced.

Wow... The synopsis reads like when he first came out too. Shit, dude should be in college now. And his outfit, and the art. I look at the feet and that one hamstring and think, "Rob?"

It's not him though. He's on Hawk and Dove. :confused:

Back to my original feelings, they are releasing to many books.

[muddi900]

Oh, oh god, the 90s just vomited on DC (http://dcu.blog.dccomics.com/2011/06/08/the-next-generation-of-justice/).

Here's my reaction as I scrolled down...

"Oh new LL, cool. Cooler if Abnett & Lanning were on it."
"What?"
"What is this I don't even'..."

"NNNNOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO OOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO!"

Man Kid Flash had the best costume of the Flash Family.

[Hemalin]

I was looking forward to checking out the new Teen Titans but... ugh.

[digitalErich]

Which Flash is that in Teen Titans...Wally's son? I read that his daughter is the new Impulse.

[Hemalin]

Bart Allen, Barry's grandson from the future.

[muddi900]

Bart Allen is Kid Flash now. I know it's a throwback to his Impulse costume, but it is so...wrong.

[Superman's Dead]

They still let liefeld work!??!?!?!?!?!

[Xerxes]

They still let liefeld work!??!?!?!?!?!

Lee said he texted him to come work on Hawk and Dove. That's just, too close.

[J Arcane]

Oh, oh god, the 90s just vomited on DC (http://dcu.blog.dccomics.com/2011/06/08/the-next-generation-of-justice/).
It's like they're trying to refocus the "teen" series to what kids will want, but their idea of what kids want is still stuck in the bad old days of the 90s when that mostly meant Wolverine and Rob Liefeld.

[muddi900]

Batman year one sneak peak:

YS76A_nl3cU

EDIT: I understand what's happening. Bob Harras is still working for Marvel. Everything since the Marvel bankruptcy has been a ploy to destroy DC.

He is the reason DC's trade program sucks as well.

[DoctorFinger]

Looks like DC aren't the only ones who are into re-numbering. Marvel is cancelling Uncanny X-Men with 544 (http://beta.news.yahoo.com/apnewsbreak-marvels-uncanny-x-men-ending-oct-070621654.html) in October, as a result of the Schism event.

[Xerxes]

Looks like DC aren't the only ones who are into re-numbering. Marvel is cancelling Uncanny X-Men with 544 (http://beta.news.yahoo.com/apnewsbreak-marvels-uncanny-x-men-ending-oct-070621654.html) in October, as a result of the Schism event.

Sounds like it could hit could hit other books as well. #TeamWolverine

[muddi900]

Dc announced some more books today. A Stromwatch book by Paul Cornell starring J'onn J'onzz. Apparently integrating Wildstorm now. Also...ugh..this: (http://www.newsarama.com/comics/dcnu-men-at-war-110609.html?utm_source=feedburner&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=Feed%3A+Newsaramasite+%28Newsarama.co m%29)

http://i.newsarama.com/images/blkhaw_cv1kdm34-sdm_02.jpg


And also a modern Sgt. Rock. You know, DC, Joe Kubert is still alive. It's like Bob is signing all of these.

[Jeffool]

Sounds like it could hit could hit other books as well. #TeamWolverineYeah, you probably thought Raphael was the best Ninja Turtle, too. #TeamCyclops #TeamLeonardo

[muddi900]

The X-men suck! :p

[Xerxes]

Yeah, you probably thought Raphael was the best Ninja Turtle, too. #TeamCyclops #TeamLeonardo

Dude, I loved the turtles all the same. It broke my heart when Ralph and Leo broke up in the first movie and again in TMNT.

[Jeffool]

Dude, I loved the turtles all the same. It broke my heart when Ralph and Leo broke up in the first movie and again in TMNT.haha, you're right. That was a low blow. I apologize. But still. I'm all for the rigid duty and thought over gut instinct and looking for fights. In theory, anyway.

[Xerxes]

haha, you're right. That was a low blow. I apologize. But still. I'm all for the rigid duty and thought over gut instinct and looking for fights. In theory, anyway.

I do to, but Scott ain't been proper since they gave Prof X the boot. Wolverine has been the same throughout. He also made a good leader of the X-Force and he's seen way more action than Scott. He that maturity work for him. I don't see him giving a huge shit about the big picture about mutant kind though. I mean he fights for what's right and against all major mutant threats, but he isn't a leader for mutant rights.

[Jeffool]

Well, I'll bow out then. I haven't read it in years. I only know them as archetypes anymore. And it sounds like that's changed a bit.

[Xerxes]

Well, I'll bow out then. I haven't read it in years. I only know them as archetypes anymore. And it sounds like that's changed a bit.

I haven't read much either. Just a few here and there. They really are more of the same which is probably why they are fighting. Last books I read with Scott, he was still "Co-Leading" with Emma. And with Wolverine, he got his own wet work team. X-Force is awesome. Need to get the other TPBs to finish up that story line.

[Savok]

Oh Blackhawks, what have they done to you...

DC sure is hell bent on making me give up on them at the moment.

[Laughing Penguin]

Dc announced some more books today. A Stromwatch book by Paul Cornell starring J'onn J'onzz. Apparently integrating Wildstorm now. (http://www.newsarama.com/comics/dcnu-men-at-war-110609.html?utm_source=feedburner&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=Feed%3A+Newsaramasite+%28Newsarama.co m%29)

Those... look... AWFUL.

Especially the Strormwatch stuff, that was a good title once upon a time. The new treatment they suggest sounds like a really bad idea as part of the DC universe.

[Hemalin]

My god, it's the 90s back to haunt us all.

[Savok]

How many left now anyway? How bad is this going to get?

[DoctorFinger]

I can't hate on Stormwatch because it's written by Paul Cornell. He's earned the benefit of the doubt in my mind. Deathstroke also looks decent, although I'm not too familiar with Kyle Higgins' work. As for the rest...Someone mentioned that Joe Kubert is still alive. He may not be after he sees the war books DC is putting out.

[digitalErich]

So they had success with Civil War and the whole vs thing and it seems like they're trying to slap that template onto X-Men. This time "I'm with Cash...in my pocket...because I'm not buying this."

[Savok]

Paul Cornell gave us Wisdom and Knight & Squire, the man is made of love but.... Wildstorm and the DCU are oil and water, I just don't see how you can join the two.

[Xerxes]

Paul Cornell gave us Wisdom and Knight & Squire, the man is made of love but.... Wildstorm and the DCU are oil and water, I just don't see how you can join the two.

I'd say the same for Milestone too but that kind of just happened. At least Wildstorm is still getting play. DC seems only interested in Static. I think he's their little black Spider-Man. Goes to school, has issues, science something gone wrong give him powers. He loves a red head. :D

Then they just slapped him in New York!

[Hemalin]

How many left now anyway? How bad is this going to get?
Six. At least four of which will probably be Superman titles.

Still no Brian Q Miller yet. Right now I'm hoping he gets put on Blue Beetle.

[DoctorFinger]

If they were going to announce a Blue Beetle book I think it would have been shown by now, either in the JL wave or the Young Heroes wave. It's stupid beyond belief that they're not doing a Blue Beetle book with the relaunch - and Miller would have been great for it.

[Xerxes]

If they were going to announce a Blue Beetle book I think it would have been shown by now, either in the JL wave or the Young Heroes wave. It's stupid beyond belief that they're not doing a Blue Beetle book with the relaunch - and Miller would have been great for it.

Which is weird when you see all the announced books. He seems like he would was somewhat popular. I don't have stats to back it up.

[DoctorFinger]

He's arguably the most popular character they've created in more than a decade, he's been on Smallville and is the most frequent guest on Brave & the Bold. Unless they're holding a Blue Beetle book back for a later launch, it makes no sense to me. A Grifter book has almost no chance at success, a Blue Beetle book launched in September at least has a shot.

[Hemalin]

If they were going to announce a Blue Beetle book I think it would have been shown by now, either in the JL wave or the Young Heroes wave. It's stupid beyond belief that they're not doing a Blue Beetle book with the relaunch - and Miller would have been great for it.
No, don't say that. There WILL be a Blue Beetle book there HAS TO BE!

[digitalErich]

DC is really dropping the ball with not having a Blue Beetle book. He's the perfect intro character to grab young readers.

He's all over the Brave and the Bold cartoon, he's a teenager that reads comics and is into superheros and part of his powers is a suit that is basically a DCU wikipedia, spouting off info for the uniformed hero character as well as the reader.

[Hemalin]

Woo, Blue Beetle by Bedard.

http://s3.torbit.com/img/ebfdc1d4a90922b586f446b0efb0fd1b00b5597c-Blue_Beetle_DC_New.jpg

Though WTF Suicide Squad.

http://s3.torbit.com/img/ba503229abcee46b5b5910c96b671aee22d832d3-Suicide_Squad_New_DC.jpg

[DoctorFinger]

I'm glad i was wrong about Blue Beetle, but I still think Bryan Q Miller would have been a better choice than Bedard, who's solid but never spectacular

[Hemalin]

And the writers on the Super-books. (http://www.bleedingcool.com/2011/06/09/dc-relaunch-a-brand-new-look-for-superman-supergirl-and-superboy/)

Bah, Bryan Q Miller isn't on anything. That's disappointing.

I notice a lack of JSA, which I find odd.

[Xerxes]

Yeah, About 30 of these books just... No.

[DoctorFinger]

I think of the JSA as one of DC's core properties. Not publishing a JSA book is...nuts. Maybe they're saving it for a later launch, like Batman Inc.

[muddi900]

Woo, Blue Beetle...

Yaaay

...by Bedard.

Boooo

[Savok]

Oh Harley, what have they done to you.... fuck it, just fuck it. Fucking 90s.

[EWolfmanD]

Oh Harley, what have they done to you.... fuck it, just fuck it. Fucking 90s.

I had no idea that was supposed to be her.

[muddi900]

In non-DC, Joe Casey and Nathan Fox, the team behind Marvel's totally-better-than-it-deserved-to-be Dark Reign: Zodiac, are taking over Image's Haunt:
http://www.ifanboy.com/content/articles/Joe_Casey_and_Nathan_Fox_Take_Over_HAUNT

Also, speculation suggests that the last book announced by DC is going to be a Fourth World book, by Joe Casey's Godland partner and Kirby impersonator, Tom Scioli.

[Savok]

Warren Ellis isn't happy (http://www.warrenellis.com/?p=12910).

On that note who the fuck gave Rob Liefeld more money? New Dark Ages already...

[Xerxes]

DC gave him more many for hawk and dove.

I'd pay pay Ellis for more Fell digitally.

[muddi900]

I already had to fight the Nineties once.

HAHA. I am eagerly awaiting his Secret Avengers.

[muddi900]

So what are you guys reading anyway? Here's my pulls:

Cinderella Fables Are Forever #5 (OF 6)
Flashpoint Deadman And The Flying Graysons #1 (OF 3)
Flashpoint Grodd Of War #1
Invincible #80


Light week. Probably catch up on old comics. Still behind on American Vampire and Infinite Vactaion.

[Savok]

I'm barely reading anything at all these days. With Marvel balls deep into event bullshit right now and DC looking at the 90s while touching themselves, it's killed a lot of reading. Fables, Invincible, Atomic Robo, any Mignola, any Conan and Darkwing Duck are it really.

Maybe once Marvel finishes Fear Itself shit will settle down a for a few issues.

[KSmitty]

The last tpbs I bought were vol 1 and 2 of the new Red Robin series. The most recent tpbs that I read are the newest Invincible (vol 14) and the newest Fables (vol 15). Next on my list is the new Walking Dead, but that doesn't come out for another couple weeks and I want to pick up the Cinderella tpb also.

Honestly I missed out on most of the Marvel events and after the disappointment of Blackest Night I haven't been super keen on keeping up with the DC events. I still haven't read any of Brightest Day or Flashpoint. I missed the entire Osborn event/arc over in Marvel and I'll probably miss Fear too.

There are some stand alone graphic novels that I'd like to read and there are a few series that I still buy in tpb, but overall my comic purchases are way down.

[muddi900]

I think I should make that reccomended reading list.

[DoctorFinger]

Just read Witch Doctor from Image (sorry I forget the names of the creators) and loved it. The #0 issue was part of FCBD and the first real issue is just as good. Hope it turns into an ongoing or semi-ongoing series.

[muddi900]

Also, How good was Batman Inc this week?

'It's open season on bats. Welcome to the frontline Raven!'
'I never left it Batman. Dont think I ever will!'


Also, I am enjoying Flashpoint way more than I am supposed to. Despite the fact NOTHING has happened in the main series. 'Flash woke up in this dystopia without powers! Went to meet Batdad! Got struck by lightning!' But that Abin sur book was cool and so was that World of Flashpoint stuff.

[DoctorFinger]

I was really stingy with the Flashpoint tie-ins, so I've only picked up a few, but I've been happy with them so far. But I've heard awful things about some of them too.

[Hemalin]

The best Flashpoint tie-in is Booster Gold. I enjoyed Frankenstein more than I thought I would though.

[muddi900]

BTW, Legendary artist Gene Colan passed away last week. He was one of the best that ever lived, if you are unfamiliar, check out Tomb of Dracula:

http://www.amazon.com/Essential-Tomb-Dracula-Marvel-Essentials/dp/078510920X/ref=sr_1_4?ie=UTF8&qid=1309527213&sr=8-4

Yes, the black and white reprints are better.

[muddi900]

DC sent out an FAQ dont-call-it-a-reboot email to all retailers:
http://www.comicbookresources.com/?page=article&id=33078


Of note is this:

It's not a reboot. A reboot is typically a restart of the story or character that jettisons away everything that happened previously.

This is a new beginning which builds off the best of the past. For the stories launching as new #1s in September, we have carefully hand-selected the most powerful and pertinent moments in these characters' lives and stories to remain in the mythology and lore. And then we've asked the best creators in the industry to modernize, update and enhance the books with new and exciting tales. The result is that we retained the good stuff, and then make it better.

Emphasis mine.

Apparently Crisis on infinite earths wasn't a reboot. Neither was Zero Hour. Nor Infinite Crisis(RETCON PUNCH!).

Drinking game. Drink every time he says innovation

EDIT:
DC accidentally mentioned the original writers were supposed to be on the reboot:
http://www.comicsalliance.com/2011/07/01/dc-reboot-brian-wood/

BAD NEWS: Brian Wood's Supergirl would have been awesome.
GOOD NEWS: No Chuck Austen.

[Savok]

I love this paragraph from Warren Ellis (http://www.warrenellis.com/?p=13002)

(Also, Dan and Jim? I love you guys, and I’m greatly enjoying watching you start some shit. But you can’t keep talking about how the old comics were boring when you in fact were the old management too. Someone’s eventually going to call you on it, and you’re not going to have a good answer. That said: keep starting fires. It’s good.)

Were DC simply launching digital comics I'd be completely on-board is the sad thing. Right now it's like watching a 4 year old with a hammer.

[muddi900]

It reeks of desperation. Also Bob Harras.

[Savok]

I think the worst part is the current DC comics. They all seem to be rushing at breakneck speed to wrap things up and return to the status quo. Gotham Sirens #24 was possibly the most rage inducing thing I've read since the whole Norman Osborn runs the world bullshit.

[muddi900]

Comic Twart is having a Gene Colan tribute week. Here is Francescon Francavilla's entry"
http://www.francescofrancavilla.com/gallery/images/colan_dracula_low.jpg

Also, if you like good art, you should definitely be visiting Comic Twart:
http://www.comictwart.com/

[Savok]

Fantastic.

[Shieldmaiden]

I want to read some Batman. Recent Batman. The most recent DC stuff I read was 52. Where do I start?

[Savok]

After Flashpoint because it's all being rebooted in September anyway.

[Shieldmaiden]

I didn't realise they were actually rebooting, I just thought they were renumbering stuff and making it newbie friendly.

[Savok]

That's the lie they're perpetrating, read the details though and it's pretty much a reboot in all but name. Just scroll up to see the new sexy xtreme Harley Quinn for instance.

[DoctorFinger]

The Bat books won't be rebooting. They'll be continuing on with the stories from Morrison, Snyder, Tomasi & Daniels, with some changes which will be explained in story.

Jonno, if you're looking for recent stuff I really recommend the recent run on Detective Comics by Scott Snyder. Some great books, without the zaniness you find in the Morrison books now. Bryan Q Miller's Batgirl has also been really good.

For slightly older stuff I'd try and find Gotham Central. It stars the Gotham PD rather than Bats himself, but it's a great book.

[Savok]

And yet we have Babs Batgirl with no Steph in sight. Tim was set to take over the Outsiders but that's being booted so he can be on Teen Titans being as 90s as possible. Dick is no longer Batman. Bruce and Damien are Batman and Robin even though that's been shown to be disastrous. Batman Inc is on hold. And everyone is being de-aged.

I'm trying to think what else you would call that besides a reboot.

[muddi900]

I'd say start at Batman & Son. Screw the haters, it is awesome. Besides anything that leads to this:

http://www.geekosystem.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/03/pirate-batman.jpg

Cant be all that bad.

EDIT:
I think Snyder's Detective is not even out in trade. I'd say try Greg Rucka's Batwoman. Start with Batwoman: Elegy. It also ties in great with 52.

On a related note, how awesome is Jock. There's a page in one of the Batwoman issues where Batman is hidden in EVERY PANEL. I'll post it when I get home.

[Savok]

Batwoman was fantastic. Thank you for murdering that DC.

Batman & Sons (http://the-blackcat.deviantart.com/)

[Psykoboy2]

Started flashpoint this week. I've also been enjoying the batman arkham city game tie-in.

[DoctorFinger]

And yet we have Babs Batgirl with no Steph in sight. Tim was set to take over the Outsiders but that's being booted so he can be on Teen Titans being as 90s as possible. Dick is no longer Batman. Bruce and Damien are Batman and Robin even though that's been shown to be disastrous. Batman Inc is on hold. And everyone is being de-aged.

I'm trying to think what else you would call that besides a reboot.And 2 years ago we had a new Robin, a new Batgirl, a new Red Robin, new Outsiders and *gasp* a new Batman. Was that a reboot, or was it just a storyline progression? Parts of the DCU are being rebooted but other parts - Batman, Green Lantern and the Legion - are just continuing with the status quo.

[Hemalin]

I'm a bit confused about a bit of Flashpoint. Why did Barry not have his powers? They established that Barry must get his powers for Reverse-Flash to exist so how does that work?

[DoctorFinger]

I'm a bit confused about a bit of Flashpoint. Why did Barry not have his powers? They established that Barry must get his powers for Reverse-Flash to exist so how does that work?I assumed it was because Zoom did something to prevent the accident which gave him powers in the first place, but the exact mechanism hasn't been shown yet.

Which brings up another point: have we seen Zoom in the series other than a single word balloon? Odd to make the antagonist so invisible.

[Hemalin]

I assumed that too, but in the Reverse-Flash book...

http://i74.photobucket.com/albums/i264/Hemalin/FP-ReverseFlash01012.jpg

http://i74.photobucket.com/albums/i264/Hemalin/FP-ReverseFlash01015.jpg

[muddi900]

Actually Professor Zoom has changed his own past. He is now the Flash of the 25th century. But Flash doent exist anymore...

AAAAAAAH!

[Hemalin]

It'd be more interesting if Flashpoint was fixed by someone going back and preventing Barry from becoming the Flash and therefore there would never be a Zoom.

[DoctorFinger]

Fear Itself was pretty good. Flashpoint was okay, but flawed. But the Batman Knight of Vengeance issue this week was amazing. That Azzarello & Risso team is pretty good. I'd like to see what they'd do with a creator owned book.

[Psykoboy2]

I love digital comics. Based on reading this, I downloaded and read Knight Of Vengeance within the following ten minutes.

[Cactaur]

Fear Itself was pretty good. Flashpoint was okay, but flawed. But the Batman Knight of Vengeance issue this week was amazing. That Azzarello & Risso team is pretty good. I'd like to see what they'd do with a creator owned book.

Check out 100 bullets if you haven't already.

[muddi900]

Fear Itself was pretty good. Flashpoint was okay, but flawed. But the Batman Knight of Vengeance issue this week was amazing. That Azzarello & Risso team is pretty good. I'd like to see what they'd do with a creator owned book.

Batdad is totally fucked up. Their Batman arc following Hush was just as...woa

My biggest problem with Flashpoint is that it's been three issues and we still havent seen the villian. Or why he is doing it.

Also, whatever happened to the other Zoom, the one who was aged in Rogue's Revenge.

[Superman's Dead]

100 Bullets is so good. I should start a re-read soon.

I'm reading through all of Dark Reign right now, and I know Savok isn't a fan but I think Bendis made Norman Osborne such a cool villain. He has a very specific voice, and watching him keep the psychopaths of his Dark Avengers under control is really fun.

[Psykoboy2]

Batdad is totally fucked up. Their Batman arc following Hush was just as...woa

My biggest problem with Flashpoint is that it's been three issues and we still havent seen the villian. Or why he is doing it.

Three issues?!

I've only seen the one main issue and the little tie-ins all around. I figured we'd get the main story of Flashpoint overall from the main series.

[muddi900]

I liked the idea of Dark Reign. The problem was that it directly followed Warren Ellis' now classic run on Thunderbolts. Bendis' Osborne was quite tame when compared.

Edit: Also, fuck the Sentry.

[Savok]

100 Bullets is so good. I should start a re-read soon.

I'm reading through all of Dark Reign right now, and I know Savok isn't a fan but I think Bendis made Norman Osborne such a cool villain. He has a very specific voice, and watching him keep the psychopaths of his Dark Avengers under control is really fun.
Bendis has one voice he gives to everyone, even Doom (http://tcj.com/journalista/mightyavengers11whore.jpg).

Norman done right is Norman by Ellis (http://scans-daily.dreamwidth.org/1964243.html?#cutid1).

[Dave]

Bendis has one voice he gives to everyone, even Doom (http://tcj.com/journalista/mightyavengers11whore.jpg).

Norman done right is Norman by Ellis (http://scans-daily.dreamwidth.org/1964243.html?#cutid1).

Wow! First time in here, but I was wondering where I could get a copy of this book that has Osbourne talking to himself in this way. That's freakin' BRILLIANT! THAT'S HOW YOU WRITE A VILLAIN! (Of course, this being Spider Jerusalem's daddy writing it, I guess I shouldn't expect anything less, but still. That's REALLY freakin' great stuff there.)

Thanks!

[Dave]

Nevermind. I looked back on the page and saw a link to the trade that it's from and will be contacting my local shop about it sometime soon.

Thank you for bringing this to my attention though, Savok.

[DoctorFinger]

Check out 100 bullets if you haven't already.I know it and love it. I was trying to be funny :cool:

Batdad is totally fucked up. Their Batman arc following Hush was just as...woa

My biggest problem with Flashpoint is that it's been three issues and we still havent seen the villian. Or why he is doing it.

Also, whatever happened to the other Zoom, the one who was aged in Rogue's Revenge.Hunter Zolomon/Zoom is a Wally-Flash villain and therefore will probably never be seen again.

[muddi900]

Bendis has one voice he gives to everyone, even Doom (http://tcj.com/journalista/mightyavengers11whore.jpg).

Norman done right is Norman by Ellis (http://scans-daily.dreamwidth.org/1964243.html?#cutid1).

OY! Bendis' Doom is awesome:
http://i385.photobucket.com/albums/oo299/muddi900/comics/Siege-TheCabal1-Page13.jpg

Nevermind. I looked back on the page and saw a link to the trade that it's from and will be contacting my local shop about it sometime soon.

Thank you for bringing this to my attention though, Savok.

I wish there was anything like that book. Secret Six and the old Suicide Squad come the closest, but they're not even in the same league.



Hunter Zolomon/Zoom is a Wally-Flash villain and therefore will probably never be seen again.

Booooooooo!

Also,

CIR-cm0fWos

There's a good version out there, but it seems to hate filthy pakis.

[J Arcane]

Here's a better version: http://www.superherohype.com/news/articles/167771-batman-year-one-trailer-hits

[Hemalin]

Hunter Zolomon/Zoom is a Wally-Flash villain and therefore will probably never be seen again.
Another really annoying thing about all this Flash stuff. After Hal came back, out came the Green Lantern Corps book for the other Lanterns. With Flash Rebirth, Johns brought out this whole Flash family and now we aren't seeing any of them.

[Savok]

Nope, that's shit Doom as well.

This is Doom (http://scans-daily.dreamwidth.org/380264.html)

[J Arcane]

Doom has an iPad.

[Savok]

The comic was from 2003.

Doom invented the iPad.

[J Arcane]

Right down to the glowing logo on the back.

Shiiiiiit.

[DoctorFinger]

Another really annoying thing about all this Flash stuff. After Hal came back, out came the Green Lantern Corps book for the other Lanterns. With Flash Rebirth, Johns brought out this whole Flash family and now we aren't seeing any of them.There was going to be a Wally backup in the Flash book, a Kid Flash book written by Sterling Gates and later a team book called the Speed Force, and they were all killed by one thing or another over the past year+. It's really annoying, largely because I find Wally & Bart to be way more interesting than Barry.

[Savok]

Barry was a better character dead. He died a good death, left a solid legacy. Final proof Johns faps to the silver age every night really.

[muddi900]

Superboy Prime needs to come back just so Bart Allen can beat on him again.

[DoctorFinger]

I think Prime is back in the last few issues of Teen Titans.

[muddi900]

Is he a stand in for obsessive nerds, again?

Also, remember they brought back Johnny Quick too. I think the only reason there isn't a Flash-family book is because DC doesn't really have a talent pool any more. All the up-and-comers sign with Marvel. And that's why Scott Lobdell has 3 books.

[DoctorFinger]

Johns was going to write it, but I think around the time that they realized how big Flashpoint and the aftermath would be they decided to kill it.

But you're right, DC stinks at bringing in hot, new writers. Scott Snyder and Jeff Lemire are a start, but everytime a new indie writer pops up you know they're going to sign exclusively with Marvel.

[muddi900]

Guess Warren Ellis is sticking to his digital commitment:
http://robot6.comicbookresources.com/2011/07/comixology-offers-planetary-omnibus/

Planetary is one of his best works and features some of the best artwork from John Cassaday. For 25 bucks its a steal over the print editions.

[Cactaur]

I have all the planetary hardcovers, on the fence whether to buy this digital one.

[muddi900]

And then there were 53...

Shade by James Robinson announced:
http://www.comicbookresources.com/?page=article&id=33214

It's a 12 issue mini-series, with art duties handled by Cully Hammner and...

upcoming issues will feature art by such luminaries as Darwyn Cooke, Javier Pulido, Jill Thompson, Frazer Irving and Gene Ha!

So basically they read my mind for my favourite artists.

[DoctorFinger]

Is it too much to hope that Tony Harris and Peter Snejeberg (sp?) do a couple of the issues?

[muddi900]

Tony Harris has pulled Bolland, he only does covers now, Snejberg would be fantastic.

[Savok]

I realize Shade is basically Robinson's baby these days but... well, Cry for JUSSSSTICE!

[DoctorFinger]

A little more on the Shade series (http://www.comicbookresources.com/?page=article&id=33245). Issues one to three are done by Cully [Hamner], issue four is Darwyn Cooke which is a Time's Past, issues five to seven are Javier Pulido, issue eight is Jill Thompson, Frazer Irving does the last arc of three issues and then issue twelve, which is the origin of The Shade, will be Gene Ha. And Tony Harris will be the cover artist for all of these issues, not just for the first one.

[muddi900]

I think James Robinson wrote COJ just like Paul Cornell wrote all of the Action issues after 900; he didn't. It screams of editorial dickery.

Though sometime last year, I think Robinson just lost it. Just look at the first six months of his Superman/Mon-El run and then compare to the latter half.

[DoctorFinger]

That was the point he was told he couldn't use Mon-El anymore, since he was going back to Levitz' Legion. Robinson originally was told he only had Mon-El for one more issue, but Levitz heard this and got the editors to be a little more flexible.

[Savok]

God DC editorial is a clusterfuck.

[DoctorFinger]

God DC editorial is a clusterfuck.
Right now that's the biggest difference between the two companies: DC editorial is (for the most part) a seething mess of bitterness and bridge-burning while Marvel just...isn't. Brevoort and Cebulski sometimes make asses of themselves online bashing DC, but you don't hear about the backbiting from them nearly as much.

[muddi900]

Get ready for the for a bombshell. Here's the cover to Green Lantern #1:


http://s1.torbit.com/img/af8ccb5c9cab580331bc98028ac5ab5b2c6c3c4e-GL_01_covercolorfinal_askldjhfaklsjdhfksjhfjkasdjk fh3453290458yhthk3-674x1024.jpg



So as with Batman, apparently a book selling isn't enough to not fuck with it.

[Savok]

Not a reboot!

Marvel editorial still dicks over writers endlessly with fucking events. They do seem to do it in a more orderly fashion though.

[Hemalin]

Hey now, maybe it's just a(nother) retelling of Sinestro's origin. It's had to have been at least a year since it was last mentioned and people have short memories.

[muddi900]

BTW, in major trade releases this week, Incognito: Bad Influences by Ed Brubaker, Sean Phillips and Val Staples comes out. The first mini was very meh, but this one was brilliant. Maybe it was due to the tragedy the writer suffered during the course of the series, but at the midway point the story transformed into something right up there with the team's classic Sleeper.

Also, by Brubaker/Philips, is the reprint of Gotham Noir from DC. Val Staples is missing but in is place is the equally fantastic Dave Stewart.

[muddi900]

It's not a reboot. Spoilers for War of the Green Lantern!


Wow. Sinestro is freed from the book of black and is given the green ring because he took on Krona bare handed. Hal kills Krona, a guardian, which ticks of the guardians so they dismiss Hal. Sinestro will be the star of the new Green Lantern book. Which is fucking fantastic.


I am kinda stoked now.

[Hemalin]

That must be awkward for the rest of the Sinestro Corps. He has quite a few "Sorry I led a war against you and your family" baskets to hand out.

[Savok]

That's..... god I'm so glad I'd already given up on the company.

[muddi900]

That must be awkward for the rest of the Sinestro Corps. He has quite a few "Sorry I led a war against you and your family" baskets to hand out.

It would lead to some great stories, or at least a decent arc, and that is what Green Lantern hasn't had for a year.

[muddi900]

So any exciting news for you from SDCC?


Joe Hill won the best writer Eisner for the fantastic Locke & Key. (http://www.buzzfocus.com/2011/07/24/eisner-award-winners-2011/)IIRC, he's the first one not working for Marvel/DC to win it. I'll need to do some digging.
Fable's gets a new spin-off, Fairest. (http://www.newsarama.com/comics/sdcc2011-willingham-fairest-110724.html) It wil feature disconnected arcs by different writers about the princesses and other characters considered ''fairest of them all". Willingam confirms that future Cinderella stories from Chris Roberson would be arcs in this series. FIRST ARC BY PHIL JIMENEZ!!!
Jason Aaron is relaunching Incredible Hulk (http://www.newsarama.com/comics/sdcc-2011-incredible-hulk-jason-aaron-110724.html)...with Mark Silvestri. Yep, that guy. (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mark_Silvestri)
Brian K Vaughn is coming back to comics with Saga (http://www.ifanboy.com/content/articles/sdcc_2011__brian_k__vaughan_returns_to_comics_with _saga_at_image), which looks like a fantasy story. This time with Image.


I just came back from vacation so only catching up with news. Also, picked up and finished Queen & Country Defeinitive collection vol. 1. Collects the first 3 stories. Finished it in three sittings. Brilliant storytelling. Also picked up Black Hole by Charles Burn. Loved his Tintin send-up X'ed Out, so excited to try it.

[Savok]

More Fables is always great.

I don't know if I could read non-Pak Hulk. I like Aaron though, his back to basics approach to Ghost Rider was wonderful.

[Xerxes]

The 90s are back everywhere.

Sent from my Transformer TF101 using Tapatalk

[muddi900]

I am quite indifferent to Aaron, even though he writes a book targeted specifically at me, Scalped. But Astonishing Spidey & Wolverine was just insane! I doubt Hulk will be like that, but I can hope.

Also, IDW is doing their super sexy Artist Edition reprints for Wally Wood, Will Eisner and John Romita Sr.
http://www.ifanboy.com/content/articles/SDCC_2011__IDW_Gives_the_ARTIST_S_EDITION_Treatmen t_to_Eisner__Romita__and_Wally_Wood

And Fantagraphics is going to reprint the controversial EC comics:
http://robot6.comicbookresources.com/2011/07/sdcc-11-fantagraphics-to-publish-ec-comics-library/

[Jeffool]

Ah man, those Artist's Editions look pretty interesting.

[MalReynolds]

finished the two star wars old republic graphic novels

[DiBiddilyBop]

For anyone not on Google+, I just wanted to come here and re-post my plug for Aspen Comics since they're an amazing group of guys:

So Comic Con 2011 is over for me and I just want to take a minute to plug the guys that gave me the highlight of my con.

This was an amazing Con and there were some HUGE moments (pictures with the cast of Spartacus!!!), but the biggest highlight was the guys at the ASPEN booth, specifically Steve (who's last name I didn't get) and Joe Benitez. I'm a huge fan of Joe's work and have picked up almost every variant of Lady Mechanika so far, so getting to meet and talk to him was a huge, huge deal for me. I ended getting a commissioned sketch ($100) of Lady Mechanika and he did not one, but two sketches while we chatted about how he got in the business and developed the character of Lady Mechanika. When I went to pay for it, he said don't worry about it, it's on the house and wrote a big "Thank You" across the top of one of the sketches.

For anyone out there who loves comics, I highly, highly recommend you support the guys at Aspen. They legitimately love what they do, and it comes through on every panel of every page. Lady Mechanika is a fantastic concept and I'm really looking forward to seeing where it goes, as well as digging into some of Aspen's new comics like Haunted City and Broken Pieces. When I get home I'll be posting pictures of the sketches, but for right now I want to give these guys a plug because they're a small company, they do great work, and they're honestly some of the nicest people I've ever met.

Here's a link (https://picasaweb.google.com/108722729019343871127/ComicConSwagJuly2011) to some of the Con stuff I picked up, including the sketches.

[muddi900]

Finished Black Hole and loved it.

Apparently there aren't any decent scans of Queen & Country and they are not available in digital legally. So I'll hunt down the rest of the Definitive collections somehow.

Speaking of digital comics, comixology has a bunch of Superman issues on sale for .99 cents:
https://comics.comixology.com/f/dcsale/index.html

Does not include Joe Kelly's What so funny about truth, justice and the American way?, but includes Alan Moore and Curt Swan's Whatever Happened to the Man of Tommorow?, Mark Millar's Red Son, Mark Waid's Birthright, All-Star Superman and the whole of the recent Geoff Johns and Gary Frank's Action comics run. As always, none of the comics are grouped by story, so use this list:
http://comics.comixology.com/f/dcsale/Superman101_Checklist.jpg

Johns/Frank is everything down from Last Son.

EDIT: Also, i found that buying Ed Brubaker/Sean Phillip's Criminal on Graphic.ly is slightly cheaper than the print collections and they may be straight scans of the issues, so they might contain the back material that was removed for the trades. If you like crime fiction or crime movies, there isn't a better deal for you.

EDIT: That sale also includes Kingdom Come, go read Kingdom Come!

[Savok]

I can't look at Kingdom Come without blaming it for the current state of DC now.

[DoctorFinger]

Kingdom Come is a symptom of the backwards-looking philosophy, not the cause of it.

[muddi900]

Kingdom Come is one of the best Superman stories of all time. Why came after and what came before is irrelevant.

[Savok]

Kingdom Come is a symptom of the backwards-looking philosophy, not the cause of it.
Oh I'm well aware of that. It's irrational but to me it's just there, infesting things.

[J Arcane]

It's basically an attempt to be Watchmen with DC characters.

And that gets into the whole postmodern superheroes thing that has been a growing pet peeve of mine.

[muddi900]

I guess it cant be internet if I dont have to defend the book that caused Jay-z's comeback.

[J Arcane]

I should clarify: I did enjoy the book, but it's definitely from a style of superhero narrative I've become rather tired of.

I want to go back to them just being the heroes again.

[muddi900]

It was just about that. It was a reaction to EXTREEEEEEM comics from the 90s. Superman represented the heroic archetype, Magog represented Spawn and it's ilk. The real issues with it was DC's mandate it be considered the canon future of DCU. Hence the mullet in the flashback. The ending was grim because of the environment of comics back then.

There was a sequel in an arc of JSA that transposed a more fitting end to the book and works great as a companion.

[MalReynolds]

finished the Dragon Age Graphic Novel and enjoyed it

[Xerxes]

I think recently I said No 00.05 is one of my favorite recently discovered characters. But now I have to say, what can't you love about Dr. Dinosaur?

[LordDon]

Do you guys ever go back and forth about digital comics? Cheaper is better but it sure is nice to have a physical copy.

[Xerxes]

It's weird for me cause I like TPB and digitally those aren't available. At least legitly. The month by month thing is just overly played out to me. I couldn't be one of the happy about comic book day guys. Cliff hangers, long drawn out stories. I barely tolerate it from TV. I mean like Dexter where it's a whole arc, fuck that.

[LordDon]

Comixology seems to have quite a few trades. I've been eyeing the Atomic Robo trades they have for like $5 or $6.

[Xerxes]

Whoa, really? Not to long ago I looked and didn't see any and someone confirmed they weren't there. Might have to add that back. And yes. Atomic Robo is awesome.

[LordDon]

https://comics.comixology.com/#/issue/914/Atomic-Robo-Vol-2-The-Dogs-of-War

114 pages! $3.99

[Xerxes]

That IS sweet.

[muddi900]

Do you guys ever go back and forth about digital comics? Cheaper is better but it sure is nice to have a physical copy.

I personally prefer physical copies, but rarely can buy them. The screens just aren't good enough, especially for B&W/Grayscale. The problem with legal digital comics remains the same; the product is terrible compared to it's illegal and print counterparts, both in quality and portability. Some people do not have that problem, so I post links here for some of my favourite comics.

[Xerxes]

I think I like digital. Colors seem more vivid.

[Psykoboy2]

I love, love, love digital. However, they really need to work on pricing. Although, we are getting the comics ad-free, so there's that.

Still, digital comics hasn't yet evolved into what it'll become (I don't know what that is), cause there is a world of opportunity and innovation when things are done digitally. I'm actually very excited about it.

As a collector, well, there's no value in collecting digital comics, so the physical copies will still trump all in that department. But I have long since stopped collecting and just look forward to the stories at this point.

[Savok]

Best case I see is only releasing physical in trade for collectors and people who want an actual copy. Newsletters printed on some soccer mom's computer get more circulation then most monthlies these days.

[Psykoboy2]

This is some of the innovation I'm talking about. I mean, we still turn pages in digital comics, but why? And especially with the comixology reader thing that highlights the order in which you read and does so in a very cinematic fashion, there's no need for "pages".

This is Atomix...it's a video game "magazine" for the iPad. I only have a few issues cause, really, I get my gaming news from the internet, but it's still a pretty neat idea and I like how it works:

61oHxTkPhHA

Can you put videos within comics? I dunno. Maybe. Hell, get a collector's edition and have it run commentary as you read it or show a video of the making of that panel or "page". I just think there's a massive amount of opportunity in digital comics that hasn't been tapped....yet.

[muddi900]

Here is the problem with digital comics. I am using Dark Horse's web reader because it is the only that doesn't kill my old laptop, but all web readers are same in functionality.

Here's a page in normal viewing mode:
http://i385.photobucket.com/albums/oo299/muddi900/DIGIcom.png

here's the same page in hand holding mode:
http://i385.photobucket.com/albums/oo299/muddi900/digicom2.png

In the former case it's unreadable, in the latter it forgoes a panel for a text box. Panels are what make a narrative in comics. They are the fundamental language. Not only that, that noise isn't from the screen cap, that is how it looked. They get worse on my high-res desktop monitor.

Now this is some random pirated scan I downloaded off the internet and use the Comix reader on Ubuntu:
http://i385.photobucket.com/albums/oo299/muddi900/digicom3.png

This is not fully zoomed and I did bullshot the result. It reads fine on my Ubuntu-based laptop, my windows-based desktop, my mother's ipad and my android phone. It looks better than the legal version and reads better.

This is some of the innovation I'm talking about. I mean, we still turn pages in digital comics, but why? And especially with the comixology reader thing that highlights the order in which you read and does so in a very cinematic fashion, there's no need for "pages".

Every comic app does this, including Marvel's own subscription based app. It can lead to some jarring and stupid results, as seen in the dungeon seige zoom sample above. They are not done by artist but some intern part-timing it for gas money. Writers and artists spend hours trying to figure out the perspectives the side and inter-relations of panels. If it was like panel to panel navigation, it would have been tolerable, but this is like watching a movie in pan-and-scan. And it also adds to the cost of the book.


This is Atomix...it's a video game "magazine" for the iPad. I only have a few issues cause, really, I get my gaming news from the internet, but it's still a pretty neat idea and I like how it works:

61oHxTkPhHA

Can you put videos within comics? I dunno. Maybe. Hell, get a collector's edition and have it run commentary as you read it or show a video of the making of that panel or "page". I just think there's a massive amount of opportunity in digital comics that hasn't been tapped....yet.

ah, ipad magazines! It's like attaching a horse carriage to your Ferrari. At least it doesn't do the page turn thing like flipboard. But you get commentaries from some books on Graphicly. at least they used to, I cant seem to find em on their website.

[Psykoboy2]

Our experiences differ then. I use comic book lover on my mac and iPad to read some of my other digital comic collections and I have no problem. As well, I've never experienced any problems with the reader offered in the stores. Although, I can say with certainty that dark horses ipad app is a piece of utter shit. Read the reviews for it, seriously.

[muddi900]

I was referring to the lack of quality of legal comics when compared to illegal comics. Especially on desktop platforms. Even on the ipad. I tried Comicbooklover on the ipad too. It's good, but not as good as it's mac counterpart. Also crashes on bigger archives. Still better than whatever Comixology or others have to offer.

[LordDon]

I don't mind the Comixology app, it gives you the option to display the full page before jumping into the panel by panel thing so you can get a gist of the overall layout.

I would be interested to see an artist design directly to an app like that rather than to a page and see what they could come up with.

[Xerxes]

The panel to panel must only be for certain comics. I didn't see it on any of the free ones I tried.

[muddi900]

I used to be into digital comics back when it was called webcomics. Seriously, you guys should check these out:

This years Eisner winner, Abominable Charles Christopher by the legedary Karl Kreschl:
http://www.abominable.cc/2007/06/20/episode-1/

Last year's winner, Sin titulo by Cameron Stewart, rarely updated :(:
http://www.sintitulocomic.com/2007/06/17/page-01/

Jeff Parker and Rebekkah Moen's hilarious story about Portland hipsters, Bucko:
http://www.buckocomic.com/2011/02/01/bucko01/

Doug Tennaple's(Earthworm Jim) soon to be concluded Ratfist:
http://ratfist.com/04-title/

And the Line by Kevin Church and Paul Salvi, about a girl working at an upscale restaurant:
http://www.agreeablecomics.com/theline/?p=4

All of these offer a serial narrative, so they are quite different from Penny-arcade or XKCD. RSS these for best results.

I don't mind the Comixology app, it gives you the option to display the full page before jumping into the panel by panel thing so you can get a gist of the overall layout.

I would be interested to see an artist design directly to an app like that rather than to a page and see what they could come up with.

Again every app does that. Basically, your options are unreadable thumbnail and intern view. Why can I just scroll through the page at it's full resolution? That's how I read physical comics; I just use my eyes.

The panel to panel must only be for certain comics. I didn't see it on any of the free ones I tried.

It's called GuidedView on Comixology, something else on Graphic.ly and something entirely on other apps. But the gist of it is the same.

[J Arcane]

I just read my comics on the iPad.

I find the size just right for full page view.

[Savok]

Ratfist started out amazing, then derailed into self-insertion and overly opinionated bullshit.

EDIT: Read this instead (http://www.gunnerkrigg.com/archive_page.php?comicID=1)

[LordDon]

Again every app does that. Basically, your options are unreadable thumbnail and intern view. Why can I just scroll through the page at it's full resolution? That's how I read physical comics; I just use my eyes.

I understand you dislike guided view. I'm saying, like Psykoboy pointed out above, that things may be different if the artist didn't design for a "page" but for a reading experience. Themselves. Without an intern making view and movement choices about a static book page.

[Xerxes]

It's called GuidedView on Comixology, something else on Graphic.ly and something entirely on other apps. But the gist of it is the same.

I didn't really need it as on my Transformer, full view works. I just wanted to see what the hype was about. Maybe that's why I could see it. Maybe it only works on smaller screens.

[muddi900]

I just read my comics on the iPad.

I find the size just right for full page view.

My cbz files "[read] fine on my Ubuntu-based laptop, my windows-based desktop, my mother's ipad and my android phone. It looks better than the legal version and reads better."

I guess I have the larger epeen. :p

I understand you dislike guided view. I'm saying, like Psykoboy pointed out above, that things may be different if the artist didn't design for a "page" but for a reading experience. Themselves. Without an intern making view and movement choices about a static book page.

Comics designed solely for the screen have been the holy grail since early 2000s, when Scott McCloud put forward the infinite canvas theory. The biggest problem is monetisation. You cant sell webcomics and you cant print comics designed specifically for the screen. Also, the idea wasn't as great as everyone thought

The guided view concept was put forward as a compromise. And when done right, it's great. I have pimped the Widescreen Edition scans of Old Man Logan many times in the comic thread and that is exactly what digital comics should look like. The guy was only able to do the first three issue, but he used cinematic and panel placement techniques that makes most of the comixology stuff look like a joke.
(sorry it doesn't work on ipad, because of the way most apps handle page transitions.)

I actually myself had an idea for a web app based around the ideas in those scans, I had even picked which comic I'll use for a prototype, but I sadly lack the time develop it.

I didn't really need it as on my Transformer, full view works. I just wanted to see what the hype was about. Maybe that's why I could see it. Maybe it only works on smaller screens.

Or maybe the android app is gimped, like always.

[J Arcane]

My cbz files "[read] fine on my Ubuntu-based laptop, my windows-based desktop, my mother's ipad and my android phone. It looks better than the legal version and reads better."

I guess I have the larger epeen.

Quote:


You are assuming all those files on my iPad are from Comixology.

That woukd be inaccurate on your part.

[LordDon]

I was starting to wonder why I couldn't find legit copies of Old Man Logan: Widescreen. :D I'll have to load up a copy when I get home to see it properly.

[muddi900]

BTW, like with all the big Marvel reveals recently, the new ultimate spidey has been outed early. I don't know much about it, since I am behind, but I know it's a black guy who is not even a clone of Peter Parker. Nerds are in a tizzy.

I just it leads to that movie with Donald Glover that only happened in my dreams.

Yes, my dreams are that lame, what of it?

[EWolfmanD]

I think you mean awesome dreams.

Your post made me go look up information about the new Spidey, and I saw this quote:


Bendis also credited Community actor Donald Glover's Twitter campaign last summer to play the movie version of Spider-Man — and subsequent appearance in the show's second season premiere in Spidey pajamas — as helping him realize he was on the right track.

"He looked fantastic!" Bendis told the newspaper. "I saw him in the costume and thought, 'I would like to read that book.' So I was glad I was writing that book."

[Savok]

Widescreen Old Man Logan made it almost readable.... almost. Still, anything making Millar anywhere close to readable is a miracle.

As for Ult Spidey, I have grave doubts but shit, Bendis pulled off a clone saga that wasn't fucking awful. Ultimate Bendis is the only good Bendis.

[muddi900]

Man seriously, Donald Glover would have been better spidey than any of the Skinny white bitches they auditioned for the role. He's a nerd, he's funny (http://comedians.jokes.com/donald-glover/videos/donald-glover---our-9-11) and he's awesome.

[Superman's Dead]

Widescreen Old Man Logan made it almost readable.... almost. Still, anything making Millar anywhere close to readable is a miracle.

As for Ult Spidey, I have grave doubts but shit, Bendis pulled off a clone saga that wasn't fucking awful. Ultimate Bendis is the only good Bendis.

You, as I may have previously mentioned, are wrong. :D

[Xerxes]

Or maybe the android app is gimped, like always.
Komik looks better anyway so it doesn't matter.

Also in the news. I'm currently reading Supergod by Warren Ellis. So far I'm digging it and I once wondered why haven't we tried to manufacture something super. Although when a T-800 is crushing my skull with his foot, it won't matter.

[Xerxes]

Although it's only speculation, I heard he may be gay (http://www.dailymail.co.uk/news/article-2021563/Marvel-Comics-reveal-new-Spider-Man-black-gay-future.html). and in my head it was like a Black, Latino, and gay as Spider-Man? biggest minority hero ever. Like minority trifecta. It kind of reminds me of how in high school TV dramas how all the real life dramas of high school happen at this one fictional school.

I always thought Donald Glover could easily be Static.

[muddi900]

In sadder news, the heirs of Kirby will not have their rights reverted because, according to the summary judgement, he did not create those characters, which is patently false. The testimony that made the case was Stan Lee's, pruporting the same myth he has all his life, claiming he was the sole writer of the characters and Kirby was just the artist, a pair of hands. Comic professionals and cartoonists have been outraged at this. Steve Bissette, classic Swamp thing artist, has called for a boycott on all Marvel comics starring Kirby creations.
http://srbissette.com/?p=12761

Tom Spurgeon over at the Comics Reporter has written great piece on it:
http://www.comicsreporter.com/index.php/go_read_steve_bissette_on_jack_kirby_and_marvel/

Kirby's contribution to the Marvel Universe is far more than a lines on a paper. HE designed most of the characters(he even claimed Spider-man) and being a pioneer of the Marvel way, he usually got verbal out lines that he turned into actual comics. The court may have decided that he deserves no credit on the word of a shameless self-promoter, but I think he should at least be credit for his great work.

This is why Paul Levitz stepping down as DC publisher was a big deal. He was the reason Neal Adams got paid because Ra's Al Ghul was in Batman Begins.

[Savok]

Fucking sickening.

Without Kirby we wouldn't have comics.