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Community => Watto's Junk Yard => Topic started by: Thomas Grey on March 5, 2004, 12:41 PM

Title: Comic Book Thread
Post by: Thomas Grey on March 5, 2004, 12:41 PM
I have a few things I'd like to rant about if people will entertain my thoughts...

1. Who is buying/reading/collecting comics besides me? What titles do you like right now? I would like to recommend a few titles I find to be extremely well written and drawn (outside of the Dark Horse SW comics, which vary). They are te following: The Losers (Wildstorm), Black Hole (Indy), Conan (DH), Batman: City of Light (DC/The Pander Brothers!), The Escapist (DH), The Moth (DH), Plastic Man (DC)... Notice please the lack of Marvel (other than 1602, I have no interest in Marvel).

2. The Slow Death and Immense Decay of Comics as we have come to know them...
Brief History: Comics come into being in book form from collected dailies. Sequencial art and storytelling becomes a lucrative business with unlimited possibilities. Heroes are born, heroes go to war while America is at war and they are popular and distributed everywhere. Comics have a tough time tring to recover from the end of the war. Horror and True Crime comics are the focus and they are eventually censored. Then we see ridiculous monster comics and then back to super heroes. The writing becomes very good and Stan Lee humanizes the hero. Comics become popular and are widely distributed. The 1980s. comics boom and start selling millions of copies per issues having to do several printings to sate the demand. They are at convenience stores, super markets, retail, drug stores. They are out there!!! They are advertising by being a fixture. Specialty shops are for the serious collector, but remain fairly covert.

Then Marvel has a great idea. Let's focus on the collector and forget the kids. Marvel decides that all they need is several thousand people to buy 3-10 copies of 'collectible' issues and they will do just fine. These select people invest as planned, but soon realize that there isn't a market for their 'collectibles' because anyone else interested has them or is trying to get rid of them. They stop buying comics. Marvel prints the few million or so comics expecting to have the continued effect and no one buys them. The market is flooded and there is no more demand. This makes Marvel  focus exclusively on specialty shops that order and pay up front and the distribution is taken from the public eye. Marvel goes bankrupt and almost kills the industry because the other companies followed Marvels lead. Indies fold, go under and suffer. Comic books are on life support.

They slowly creep back but stay limited to the specialty shops. Advertising by putting them in every retail store is gone. People don't buy comics unless they hunt them down in specialty shops. Graphic novels become the focus and the monthly books cut corners, artists and writers are hired for their speed and ability for meeting deadlines. The quality drops. Comics go from selling up to 2 million per issue in the 1980s and 1990s to considering good sales on a book being 15,000.

The movies come out and out and out and nothing is done to publicize the comic book industry. Comics are kept in a private world. 250+ million are viewing these movies and no one is buying comics because they can't get them. They are not there...

Rumors ripple through the industry that Marvel wants to focus solely on graphic novels and continue to focus on large corp. bookstore chains buying up front. The idea to stop printing monthly 22-24 page books is considered and could possibly come to be from Marvel.

DC stays true to form and doesn't want to shake things up. They are as concerned with quality as they are with profit. They sign the industtries best creators to contracts and recruit a house of legends by 2004.  Dark Horse also stays with the comic as an art form concept nad continues to put out quality books. Image is about the art and not the writing. But the art is worth the cover price.

Comics are hanging by a thin thread.

3. I love comics as a creator and a reader and a collector. I hope something is done to promote the industry better and to make comics more accessible to the average Joe.

I saw a kid (15 or 16) in a Borders bookstore reading a comic the other day. He had a mohawk going and looked fairly nerdy (who am I to judge). He was reading a graphic novel (more underground or independent).
I asked him why he was reading that comic and he said he liked the writing. I asked him if he collected or knew of a few titles and he said no. He was just starting to get into it. I asked if he knew where a local specialty shop was and he said... No.

My point is... The fan is out there, but the comics are not. This is going to be the demise if it is not amended. This art form must live on! I do not know if there is really anything we can do as fans. Just thought I'd air that out because it depresses me and makes me quite angry.

Hope the message is clear here. I tend to ramble when I'm all worked up.
Title: Re: Comic Book Rant
Post by: Mikey D on March 5, 2004, 01:17 PM
Extremely well written, Thomas.  I don't think I can argue with one thing you wrote.  I would say that Marvel is trying to escape their past ways and put out books that people can relate to, ala the golden age with Lee, Kirby, Dikto, etc.  Ultimate Spiderman, Daredevil, Ultimates (late shipping aside) and both the regular and Ultimate versions of FF are good stuff.  I truely believe Joe Quesada wants to move Marvel in the right direction and keep the fans happy.  This was evidenced when Waid got fired from FF and the fans spoke out.  Quesada righted the situation and now that book is one of the best there, IMO.

I have always been a Marvel fan almost to the point where all I bought was Marvel.  This was back in the day when I was dropping $30 - $40 a week on crap (Slapstick anyone?).  Then I went to college and I pretty much stopped reading and collecting.

I started up again when Devils Due re-released GIJoe and the glory days of reading and enjoying comic books came back.  I don't buy nearly as much as in the past and try to limit my grab list to select titles.  This doesn't mean I won't try something new, but I tend to stay with what I know.

Besides Star Wars, my top monthly grab is probably Ultimate Spiderman.  I wasn't on board from the beginning, but recommendations from the guys over at GH lead me to pick up the first TPB.  I was immediately hooked.  I've always been a fan of Bagley's art and Bendis' writing is one of the best, if not the best, out there today.  

I also starting looking at DC more.  Back in the day, I always felt they were Marvel's b!tch and couldn't compete with them.  Then, as you said, they started hiring top notch talent to exclusive contracts and started to put out quality books.  If it wasn't for word of mouth, my DC grab list would probably not be nearly what it is now.  Hawkman, Teen Titans and Outsiders are all excellent books, both with character development and action.  I picked up JSA when they had a crossover with Hawkman a few weeks ago and was impressed enough to add to my grab list.  

And I'll always defend Erik Larsen and Savage Dragon.  He has put out a top notch, quality book for almost 120 issues and show's no sign of slowing down.  He appreciates the fans, as evidenced by the number 1 letters page in all of comics and knows that without them, he wouldn't be doing what he holds so dear.  The relavtively few (in comparsion) buyers of his book know they're going to get a treat every time.

And I'm always open for suggestions for something new.
Title: Re: Comic Book Rant
Post by: smileyfaceguy on March 5, 2004, 01:30 PM
All I can say is that The Watchmen scares the **** out of me.

(http://www.timemachinego.com/linkmachinego/images/watchmen_smiley.jpg)

 :(
Title: Re: Comic Book Rant
Post by: Jeff on March 5, 2004, 01:54 PM
I have a few things I'd like to rant about if people will entertain my thoughts...

1. Who is buying/reading/collecting comics besides me? What titles do you like right now?

2. The Slow Death and Immense Decay of Comics as we have come to know them...

3. I love comics as a creator and a reader and a collector. I hope something is done to promote the industry better and to make comics more accessible to the average Joe.

Hi,

Great post.  I agree with your take on the comic industry: peaked in the late 80s, early 90s and has been decreasing ever since...

1) - I'd recommend ANYTHING by Geoff Johns.  IMHO, the guy is one of the best writers out there.  He currently writes JSA, HAwkman, and The Flash for DC and his Avengers run at Marvel was great!  

The guy knows and loves the Silver age feel and tries to bring the Silver Age story-telling into the books (not always the characters, but the sense of story first, hype second).

2) Marvel did mess things up.  Thanks again McFarlane Spidey (the beginning of the end!)  ::)


3) - I think that DC tries harder thatn Marvel to recruit new readers.  They have a whole line of Cartoon Network comics as well as the "Animated" style books for the Teen Titans, JLA, Superman, and Batman.

A few years back, I wouldn't have wanted my 6-yr old and 8-yr old nephews reading comics because the content was a bit too mature, but DC's line of JL Universe and Animated Batman adventures are great for kids (which are tomorrows comics generation).  My wife and I bought my nephews subscriptions to those "animated" style books and they love them!  There is hope out there.

Also, DC does a much better marketing tie-in with comics because of the cross breeding with the WB/AOL/Time-Warner.  They can use the WB cartoons and cartoon network to advertise their comics.  I have noticed that in WB stores, there are DC comics as well as mentions of big DC Comic stories in Time/Warner magazines like Entertainment Weekly.

I think they are improving in getting comics back out there into stores like B&N, Target, and other places.


Marvel, however, yeesh.  Ugh.  Marvel needs to focus more on hyping comics when movies are hot.  I can't believe that Spiderman the Movie made $400 million, but sales on the books only went up 2%?  Huh?  Why aren't the kids buying the books?

I really think Marvel needs to stop with the "Marvel Max" and "Marvel Knights" crap and start producing books that are appropriate for kids.  Kids need a book where Spider-man fights Electro and not discusses his marraige with MJ or other "adult" junk.  I wish Marvel would introduce a more "cartoony" line for kids.

Ultimates was a way to re-boot the Marvel universe for new readers, but eventually lead to the same crappy places: love-triangle with Cyke/Jean/Logan, etc.  They focus too much on character relationships for kids I think.

Back in my day, (uh oh, here it comes) Barry liked Iris, Hal liked Carol, Clark liked Lois, etc. Buth the girl always like the alter-ego.  That way you didn't have to deal with the whole Superman and Lois might get divorced crap.

Anyway, Just my $0.02,
Jeff
 
Title: Re: Comic Book Rant
Post by: Thomas Grey on March 5, 2004, 05:17 PM
I am pretty old school as far as collecting and can relate to laying down $30-$40 a week Mikey D. I find myself buying more Silver age stuff these days, but do have a file at a local place. I think the Ultimate line is okay, but they stopped printing them on the primo stock to cut costs and it caused people to complain enough that they are bringing it back. I just think it's more of a 'What If' universe. They need to focus on the reality of the Marvel Universe. Daredevil has been the only Marvel title (in my opinion) that you can count on being solid each and every month. I just think Marvel is breaking in all these newer artists to work with established writers to save a buck or 2. It's just inconsistent and bums me out. Quesadilla is cool and I hope he starts to turn things around. Marvel was always the big dog to me until recently.

If I went to DC it was for The Watchmen, Swamp Thing, Miller's Dark Knight, Ronin, Animal Man, Sandman, Miracleman. DC put out the good epic stuff and Marvel made the good monthly books.

I read Daredevil and the Wolverine mini when Miller and Janson were on them, the Claremont/Burne X-men... I also loved the Indies; Baron & Rude on Nexus, Badger, Elementals, Judge Dredd, Mage, Grendel...

I am a fan to the core and just hope it can improve.
Title: Re: Comic Book Rant
Post by: Morgbug on March 5, 2004, 09:37 PM
Comics were the filler in the gap that was my toy collecting.  I bought comics from around 84-94.  

My history prior to that is filled with comics.  When I was a kid (no, no dinosaurs roaming the earth) we used to go to an Aunt and Uncle's cabin at a Lake.  They used to take in all the cousins and give the parents a break.  On rainy days, we could either play games or read comics.  DC and Marvel were present in pretty even amounts.  I'm fairly honored to say I held Amazing Fantasy #15 in my hands several times.  It was dog eared and the cover long since torn, but I must have read it thousands of times.  I later told my Aunt what it was worth and she said considering the peace and quiet it bought her on rainy days, she never would have sold it, no matter the amount :)

Unlike you Thomas, I was all about Marvel.  I loved Spiderman and he is still my favourite character.  Peter Parker was every kid, for the most part, save the jocks (of which I was one, but never felt like one, but that's a whole different story ;)).  He was the good kid, the nerd, etc.  But for me, the reason I loved Spiderman was the morality.  More than anything else, Pete tried to do the right thing, something I still try to abide by.  

From there I spread into other titles like Daredevil, Ironman then on into the X-titles.  I've also been a Batman and Superman fan, but the rest of the DC titles just didn't do it for me as I didn't really like their characters that much.  

I recall the switch from comics based on stories to comics based on promotion and gimmick.  Part of that switch involved Boobs.  Female characters prior to that had been fairly curvaceous but this bordered on the absurd.  Commensurate with the switch was a rapid decline in the quality of writing.  Sure, the artwork was fine, but the story took second place to the graphics, the more, um, graphic the better.  

I'm guessing I got out around issue 330 or so of ASM and haven't regreted it.  

The stories sucked.  If I wanted boobs, I could go out and buy a Playboy.  The art was good, but pointless.  I saved around $50 a week.  

Nowadays I don't buy comics.  Mostly because I simply cannot get over the cost.  I realize I'm getting old, but c'mon.  I was in Walmart one day and up here they display their comics in the toy section.  I spied a Star Wars comic with Leia being captured by some Imperial troops.  I read most of the book in the store and thought geez, this is pretty cool, I should get it.  Until I looked at the price.  $10 Cdn (around $7.95 US or so).  Do kids get THAT much money these days that they can afford it????  If I bought as many titles as I used to in my early twenties, I'd be dropping over $300 a week :o  That's ridiculous.  

I guess in part I'm tiring of the "collectible" mentality.  Yeah, sure, I contribute in a huge way by buying stuff.  Can't argue with that.  But you know what?  If they produced a billion Marvel Legends Red Skull figures or a billion R2-D2 Droids Kubricks, I couldn't care less.  

Comics need to drag themselves out of that mentality or sales will stay dismal.  I've got 13 long boxes of comics that say so.  BTW, I was not a speculator when I was buying comics.  I do have multiple copies of McFarlane's Spiderman #1 but that's about it.  Spawn #1 caused me to buy all of 1 copy.  I guess allowing for inflation, I would figure that comics at around $2.00-3.00 would be a fair price.  
Title: Re: Comic Book Rant
Post by: Thomas Grey on March 5, 2004, 11:20 PM
Don't get me wrong. I liked Marvel a lot in the 70's and 80's. The current status is what I'm sick about.

I can relate to you in that I was raised on comics. Classics Illustrated was always there at my grandmothers. Also Sad Sack, Mad Magazine, House of Horrors and the Classic Carl Barks Uncle Scrooge before anyone knew he was the artist drawing it. I also remember days when I'd be home sick. My father would come home at lunch with a fistfull of comics and among them would be Spiderman, Superman, Green Lantern, Incredible Hulk... That got me going to look and buy them at stores and read them into worthlessness. My old Conans and Strange Tales and Xmen are classic and worth tons in good shape. Mine are worth my memories and that's fine for me. I didn't know and had I knoown, I probably wouldn't have cared. I never bought a comic I didn't read. I just read them a little more carefully these days.

But having a father come home after he pops by the local convenience store and brings you some great comics to read is no longer. They aren't there. The sick kids are getting what? DragonballZ? It's just stupid if you ask me that they do not make them more accessible. It is art and literature and needs to be out there!
Title: Re: Comic Book Rant
Post by: jokabofe on March 6, 2004, 12:05 AM
i still read comics on a weekly basis... or at least whenever i can get my lazy ass to the shop to pick up my stash  ::) - and i still drop like $50 a week or more, which isn't hard when the average book costs like $2 now  >:(

but some of my favorite reads right now are:

ultimate spider-man
ultimate fantastic four
100 bullets
dreamwave's transformers books
any star wars books (duh)
superman/batman by loeb & mcguinness

plus whatever catches my eye when i'm there... the owner of the shop i go to is a good friend of mine, so he pretty much looks out for me, holding stuff he thinks i'll dig to the side till i get there, which has been once a month for a while now. but he's turned me on to some really great stuff, like 30 days of night a while back... one of the best books i had read in a long time.
Title: Re: Comic Book Rant
Post by: Scott on March 8, 2004, 12:07 AM
I got a few hundred old Avengers and Captain America comics off of eBay in the past few months and I've been reading them here and there a few issues at a time.  They're all from the early 80's (right before Secret Wars) until the mid 90's...its amazing how different the art and stories are from what I know of the industry these days.  IMO they've shunned kids for the Collector much like a lot of toy lines have done.  Comics have also been killed by the introduction of the home video game systems, we were the first generation to have them but we held on to our comics, kids now don't need comics to waste time reading, they have much more visually appealing and stimulating activities in which to waste hours on end

I can't say much about the modern industry, I've paged through a few Ultimates books, checked out Ultimate Spidey a few times but that's been about it, things started to change right about the time I got out of my reading days ('89-'90)  Punisher and Wolverine were starting to take over the Marvel Universe and I remember my mom being a little uncormfortable of having her 15 year old reading such violent mags...and I look at the early 80's Avengers and have to agree with her.  The introduction of violence was happening then and is something they need to get rid of if they want to attract the youth of the world back into the Comic Universe.

Interesting topic Thomas
Title: Re: Comic Book Rant
Post by: SPIDERLEGS on March 9, 2004, 02:11 PM
I'm a huge Vertigo fan. TRANSMETROPOLITAN is greatest comic of all time (have them all). I also love HELLBLAZER (most), PREACHER(all) & SANDMAN(all). Never got into superhero comics other than BATMAN (half) and SPIDERMAN (most of the McFarlane issues). Kinda dug SPAWN for a while. I have all the STAR WARS TPBs.

I mainly don't collect single issues unless the TPB hasn't come out yet. I love TPBs because I don't have to wait a month for the story to continue and you get complete story arcs. Plus, they are easier to keep in good condition.

I used to totally dig Darkhorse, but they've slipped, at least to me, in the last few years.

I'm about to check out THE WATCHMEN. I've heard good things about them.

The greatest comic artists of all time? Alex Ross, Darick Robertson, Steve Dillon, Joe Quesada. Greatest writers: Alan Moore, Warren Ellis, Garth Ennis, Frank Miller, Matt Wagner, Grant Morrison.
Title: Re: Comic Book Rant
Post by: Thomas Grey on March 10, 2004, 11:50 AM
Greatest eh?

I can't resist...

Vital comics that everyone should read at some point:
1. Watchmen (Alan Moore) - it will change the way you look at comics and life. - I also recommend V for Vendetta, his Swamp Thing run and League of Extraordinary Gentlemen...
2. both Dark Knight series (primarilly the first) by Frank Miller), Frank Miller Collected Daredevil work & Wolverine mini series...
3. Sandman - Neil Gaiman
4. The Spirit - Will Eisner - long running comic, but the best!
5. MAUS - Art Speigleman (sic) - amazing!!!
6. Carl Barks Disney work (Donald Duck and Scrooge McDuck).
7. Mage & Grendel runs - Matt Wagner
8. The Dark Phoenix X-men run - Claremont/Burne
9. Waiting for Nexus TPB - Baron/Rude
10. I like the collected old strips like: Tarzan (Hogarth), Flash Gordan, Lil' Abner (Frazetta years), Dick Tracy...
11. Animal Man
12. Steranko - Nick Fury
13. TBPs - Original Star Wars, Any Marvel Title - Stan Lee is brilliant and Kirby & Ditko are marvelous.
- many, many more... Just what I could come up with now.

You mentioned that you thought Dark Horse was sliding. I think you may want to look again. They are becoming very concerned with art and writing.
The following titles are really exceptional:
- Conan
- The Moth
- The Escapist

Good to know there are so many enthusiasts out there. Hard to keep the collections current unless you make a mint...



Title: Re: Comic Book Rant
Post by: SPIDERLEGS on March 10, 2004, 11:15 PM
I'll pick up some of the titles you recommended, but do yourself a favor:

pick up the TPB "TRANSMETROPOLITAN: Lust for Life"

You'll be hooked. Trust me!

SPIDER JERUSALEM tells the TRUTH!
(you'll know what that means when you read the book.)
Title: Re: Comic Book Rant
Post by: Thomas Grey on March 11, 2004, 11:51 AM
Have it in single issue form and I agree, it's pretty good stuff! I usually scan the rack and look for indies that may be new or have decent covers (don't tell me the cover doesn't sell the comic). I saw the edgy art on the first issue and started buying Transmetropoliton and got into it easily. I do have a file at a store, but half the fun for me is checking the rack for the stuff I may not know about...
Title: Re: Comic Book Rant
Post by: hansloroll on March 13, 2004, 01:38 AM
The death of Comics began right around the birth of videogames.

Funny but true.
Title: Re: Comic Book Rant
Post by: Scott on March 19, 2004, 10:18 AM
Check out these auctions :o

showcase-new-england (http://cgi6.ebay.com/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewSellersOtherItems&userid=showcase-new-england&include=0&since=-1&sort=3&rows=50)
Title: Re: Comic Book Rant
Post by: DSJ™ on March 19, 2004, 10:33 AM
You should check out this aution for Amazing Fantasy #15 & the back cover is not missing.

AMAZING FANTASY 15 UNRESTORED AND BEAUTIFUL  (http://cgi.ebay.com/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&item=2232017977&category=32739)

This one is a killer but relisted & pulled!  ???

AMAZING FANTASY 15 EXCELLENT  (http://cgi.ebay.com/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&item=2229524990&category=32739)

To think I know someone that has this issue & it is gorgeous!  8)
Title: Re: Comic Book Rant
Post by: Scott on March 19, 2004, 10:45 AM
That seller right now has
Amazing Fantasy 15 (http://cgi.ebay.com/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&category=74&item=2231195702)
Amazing Spider Man #1 (http://cgi.ebay.com/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&category=74&item=2231196278)
X-Men 1 (http://cgi.ebay.com/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&category=74&item=2231316793)

Plus lots of Low Number Avengers, FF, Spidey, X-Men, Iron Man, Captain America AND lots of lots of runs of modern comics too, good way to fill some holes in the collection
Title: Re: Comic Book Rant
Post by: DSJ™ on March 19, 2004, 10:48 AM
I think you should get this if you can find one!  :o   :o   :o   :o  

Most Valuable Comic (http://www.guinnessworldrecords.com/index.asp?id=51774)
Title: Re: Comic Book Rant
Post by: JediMAC on March 21, 2004, 04:22 PM
I don't know jack about comics, and don't collect them at all, but I did get a free Hellboy premiere edition comic with my Wizard World L.A. advance ticket order.

Anyone want it?  You'd just have to pay for shipping...  LMK!

- Matt
Title: Re: Comic Book Rant
Post by: DSJ™ on July 12, 2004, 09:37 PM
Hey Scott!   :o

Superman 1 Batman 1 Amazing Fantasy 15 Spider-man X-men
$1mil collection full runs of ASM X-men Hulk FF +more (http://cgi.ebay.com/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&item=2255305647&ssPageName=STRK)
Title: Re: Comic Book Rant
Post by: Scott on July 12, 2004, 09:56 PM
Wow is that impressive...what sort of feedback would you need from someone to make sure you got your stuff?
Title: Re: Comic Book Rant
Post by: Thomas Grey on July 12, 2004, 09:57 PM
It's not fair!!!

I actually have been digging through comic shops overstock and independent boxes lately and have found some great early 1950's stuff for cheap. It's all crap condition, but I buy them for that amazing 50's art. Back when they cared and knew how to draw! I actually picked up Avengers #8 for $5 because of the poor condition. But seeing Kirby on ragged, yellowed paper seem more appropriate. If you can't read it or enjoy the art, it's a waste. Comics like the auction pages posted before this reply will only be displayed and never enjoyed as they should be.

All this from a guy that won't open up his Star Wars figures...
Title: Re: Comic Book Rant
Post by: Brian on July 19, 2004, 01:50 PM
I'm not sure how many comic readers we have here, and I'll admit that I am just getting back to comics after a long lapse...but I saw this while visiting Marvel.com today, and thought it sounded interesting:

Avengers Disassembled (http://www.marvel.com/publishing/stories/showstory.htm?id=1)

I personally haven't really read any Avengers comics since I was a kid, but this sounds pretty interesting.  Sounds like it is a big crossover...and I'm sure many of you know much more about it than I do.  Anyways, I thought it looked interesting.

Recently, I've kind of started getting back into comics.  Outside of Star Wars, it was one of my favorite things as a kid, and I have found (at least so far) that I enjoy them quite a bit now too.  After advice from people here and at GH, I have picked up Ultimate Spider-Man TPBs 1-8, and just finished with the Venom arc (#6).  This is a really good book, and I'm glad many of you suggested it.  I'm trying to get caught up.  I also recently subscribed to Amazing Spider-Man.  I hope that it is a decent book...it was my favorite as a kid, and as silly as it might sound, I kind of like "getting something in the mail", so I thought I would subscribe.  I'm kind of interested in getting a few more titles here and there (checking out an X-Men, Avengers, and/or Fantastic Four book), but I spend enough on Star Wars (and Marvel) stuff already, so I'll probably limit it to Spidey for now.  Anyways, any of you reading comics (past or present ones)...or anything you are looking forward to?
Title: Re: Comic Book Rant
Post by: SPIDERLEGS on July 19, 2004, 01:57 PM
I just finally checked out The Authority, and I have to admit, I liked it alot. My first taste of The Authority was an odd choice, I'll admit, because I started with "Transfer of Power" which basically finds the original Auhtority being replaced by lesser versions.

It's a great read, though. Mark Millar wrote "Transfer of Power" and Frank Quitely pencilled it. Warren Ellis created it and wrote it for a while.
Title: Re: Comic Book Rant
Post by: Scott on July 20, 2004, 12:07 AM
Somewhere I read the first half of Avengers 500 on-line.  Having no idea what has been happening for the last 190 issues it was about the same old stuff.  Ultron, Blown Up Mansions, Vision goes nuts, the twist was some Heroes bit it, and Marvel has this new rule, if you die, you're dead.  Interesting....very interesting.  They killed Colossus, why not more B-Rate heroes
Title: Re: Comic Book Rant
Post by: Scott on August 3, 2004, 11:41 PM
Thumbed through Avengers #500 today at the local comic shop, it looked good but I didn't feel the need to buy it, I'm sure there will be a Graphic Novel somewhere down the line of the whole Avengers Dissasembled Arc
Title: Re: Comic Book Rant
Post by: Thomas Grey on August 4, 2004, 01:26 AM
Way to pump up the comics industry Scott...

Avengers #500. I bought it and thought it was quite interesting and it's about time they shook things up. The only Avengers cmic I have picked up in 10+ years besides #500 is a ratty #8 for the Kirby art. If you like the Avengers, you may want to pick up 500, but I also think it will be hard to find and a decent future investment (but who cares, comic investments are risky at best).

I personally do not like much that Marvel is putting out. The Ultimate stuff makes my blood boil because they can't think of anything cool to do with these classic characters in the actual Marvel universe...

I'd recommend the following if you are interested in good art and reads that are modern titles:
Spiderman/Doctor Octopus (not sure of the actual title, but it's a mini series)
The Losers (Vertigo/DC)
Conan (modern & Dark Horse)
the new Eightball is great, but quite large in format.
Black Hole (indie by Charles Burns)
The New Frontier (DC) I think it's called that...
Punisher has been pretty good of late
Astonishing X-Men is great and a testament finally to what the X-Men deserve to be (like the older runs of the Uncanny X-Men)
The Escapist (DH)
Freaks of the Heartland (DH)

blah, blah & blah. I am okay with the modern, but I like the older stuff (on a '50's EC kick right now) and I just root through the back issue boxes looking for ratty copies of that stuff for the art to inspire and as reference. I usually get these premium but battered comics for $4 or less and they are great for what I want to do... Read them! I used to just bag up comics and put them on ice and never read them. What a foolish invester I am/was. Now the investment is purely for the love of the writing and art and inspiration. Then I bag them and put them on ice...
 
Title: Re: Comic Book Rant
Post by: jokabofe on August 4, 2004, 01:51 AM
i used to buy 2 of everything when i was really hardcore into collecting. 1 to read, and 1 to just put away. of course, after reading the 1st copy, it was also bagged/boarded and put away. nowadays, when i go into the comic shop, i pick up a few books here and there, and i take them home, read them, and then throw them in a box. like the boxes that paper reams come in? not comic boxes. nowadays, like thomas said, i buy books for enjoyment, to read and look at, and then... well, whatever happens then, happens. i know for a fact that i'm not gonna sell my 100 copies of youngblood #1 and retire. i know i'm not gonna sell all the copies of my run of "rom:space knight" and settle back on the beach. it's just not gonna happen. so now i read, enjoy, have fun, and move on.

lately, i've been reading:

akira graphic novel(s) from dark horse
star wars: a long time ago graphic collections from dark horse (reprinting all the old marvel books)
100 bullets
star wars:empire
star wars: republic
superman
amazing spider-man

and that's about it on a regular basis. every now and then i pick up something else to check it out, but nothing has really struck my fancy in a while. i have been picking up quite a few graphic novels/collected editions tho. seems like the way to go.... wait a few months after a hot book is released, and issues are going for $8 - $10 each.... then they release a $13 softcover containing all 6 issues - the market falls out on the single issues and i get to read the entire story in one night...  ;D
Title: Re: Comic Book Rant
Post by: Scott on August 4, 2004, 10:27 AM
I liked the bit at the end with She Hulk, I've read a few rumors that one of the big Avengers is gonna bite it too in this arc, most people say its between Hawkeye, Wasp or Yellowjacket
Title: Re: Comic Book Rant
Post by: Scott on September 23, 2004, 12:49 PM
(http://www.silverbulletcomicbooks.com/features/images/nicieza/hawkeye.jpg)

Anyone heard what happened to dear old Hawkeye this week :'(
Title: Re: Comic Book Rant
Post by: jokabofe on September 23, 2004, 02:28 PM
I'm guessing:

I liked the bit at the end with She Hulk, I've read a few rumors that one of the big Avengers is gonna bite it too in this arc, most people say its between Hawkeye, Wasp or Yellowjacket

But don't worry... this is the Marvel Comics Universe we're talking about here. I'll say by next summer - if not earlier - he'll be back, and probably better than ever. Bionics maybe? Alien Nano-technology? Who knows what will save him (and improve him) but it'll be something. Maybe they'll give him an adamantium skeleton or something.
Title: Re: Comic Book Rant
Post by: Scott on September 23, 2004, 02:36 PM
I thought they adopted a policy of Dead = Dead????
Title: Re: Comic Book Rant
Post by: Jim on September 23, 2004, 02:49 PM
On a side note, somewhat relaated.  I have been out of the Marvel Universe (current at least) for a good dozen years.  Any dead Superheroes or Villains that did not make it back?  Just curious. ???
Title: Re: Comic Book Rant
Post by: jokabofe on September 23, 2004, 03:12 PM
In the Marvel Universe, you can never say never.
Title: Re: Comic Book Rant
Post by: Scott on December 2, 2004, 01:47 PM
(http://ced.legall.free.fr/encyclomics/marvel/Images/squadron_supreme_02.jpg)

I remember the Squadron Supreme mini-series (1985) very vaguely when it first came out.  I know that I even had a few issues of the arc in my collection from off the newsrack

Recently, for some weird reason I picked up the trade paperback of Squadron Supreme and tore through it like no tomorrow.  It is one amazing piece of work, truly a novel idea and one of the best things Marvel has ever done IMO. 

Gruenwald was always my favorite Marvel writer and I was a hard core Captain America fan and reader and I never knew the depth or magnitude of the work he did on Squadron. 

So I got to thinking about if I would want ML toys as well, I don't think I do.  It would be neat to see...however, they are so unknown even today, that people would pass on them like the plague.   

I do recommend checking out the TPB though if you have a chance

(http://www.starstore.com/acatalog/Squadron_Supreme-01.jpg)[/img]
Title: Re: Comic Book Thread
Post by: Mikey D on December 2, 2004, 03:04 PM
Scott, might I suggest Supreme Power, an updated version of the Squandron Supreme.  An absolutely brilliant read and near the top of my draw list every month.

Here's the first two TPB's, which covers the first 12 issues (#13 came out last week)

(http://images.amazon.com/images/P/0785112243.01._SCLZZZZZZZ_.jpg)

(http://images.amazon.com/images/P/0785114564.01._SCLZZZZZZZ_.jpg)
Title: Re: Comic Book Thread
Post by: Brian on December 2, 2004, 03:22 PM
That does look vaguely familiar to me Scott, but I don't think I have read it...sounds like it is really good though.  Resurrecting the comic thread now....what (if anything) is everyone reading now?  Not too much for me really yet, since the expendable income (after collecting) has been a little tight.  I am subscribed to Amazing Spidey and have been trying to keep up with Ultimate Spider-Man through TPBs.  I've thought about checking out the "New Avengers" title to see what the team is like, but haven't decided yet.  I've also recently been getting into the DC world a little bit more, trying to decide which title I want to dive into.  I think I am getting a Superman/Batman TPB from my wife for Christmas ;), and have looked at that title since I've heard relatively good things about it, and those are my two favorite DC characters.  Other than that, I've been considering a basic Superman title, but I hear that both "Superman" and "Adventures of Superman" aren't too spifftastic right now.  JLA continues to tempt me, and I've been thinking about picking up a couple of issues to check it out...always enjoyed me some Justice League.  Anyone else reading right now?
Title: Re: Comic Book Thread
Post by: John C on December 8, 2004, 11:13 AM
I checked out JLA because Buisek started on it, and I've liked what has been done so far.  It's as good as is was since before Kelly destroyed it.  I really like the CSA.
Some other current books I recommend include Flash, Teen Titans and JSA.  As Nataku mentioned, Geoff Johns really loves the DCU and treats it well.  I wish he were still writing Hawkman. 
The only decent Superman title is Superman/Batman.  I wish DC would have given control of Superman to Waid and Morrison when they had the chance.  The Superman titles have been stale for far too long.
Older titles worth checking out are the James Robinson Starman series and Crisis on Infinite Earths.  Crisis is in TPB and most of Starman is. 
Title: Re: Comic Book Thread
Post by: SPIDERLEGS on December 8, 2004, 01:18 PM
Check out WE3 by Grant Morrison and Frank Quitely. It's freaking awesome.

http://www.dccomics.com/features/grant_morrison/intro.html

Title: Re: Comic Book Thread
Post by: Scott on December 13, 2004, 02:48 PM
Mikey...picked up Supreme Power and its great...thanks :)
Title: Re: Comic Book Thread
Post by: Brian on December 13, 2004, 02:54 PM
Has anyone checked out the "Astonishing X-Men" title?  I thought about picking up an issue to see what it is like, but was just curious what anyone thought of it.  I stopped in the local comic shop last week, and was looking for the "New Avengers" #1, but didn't see it.  Of course, I don't exactly frequent it a lot, at least not yet, so maybe I just missed it.  I have been picking up a few JLA issues here and there, and those seem pretty good.  Also, a little bit of the current Jim Lee run on Superman, which from what I have read hasn't been getting stellar reviews, but I like Supes, so I thought I'd check it out.  Nothing overwhelming, at least not so far, but the art is nice.  Picked up a "Star Wars: Empire" (#22) too, just for the heck of it, nice to read a Star Wars comic again...I hadn't done that since I was a kid ;).  Also, continue to get Amazing Spidey monthly, and pick up the Ultimate Spidey TPBs every so often...both are good.  Amazing Spidey's "Sins Past" arc was a little...different, but not bad.

Oh...also, I saw the little preview of Star Wars: Empire #27 over at Dark Horse's site.  Looks like they might find an "old" left behind Clonetrooper in that issue, might be kind of interesting:
(http://images.darkhorse.com/common/salestools/previews/swonemp27/swonemp27p4.jpg)
Title: Re: Comic Book Thread
Post by: Mikey D on December 13, 2004, 04:02 PM
Glad you like it, Scott.  Did you pick up both TPBs or just the first?

Brian, the clonetrooper actually meets Luke on the "cliffhanger" splash page of Empire #26.  Going to be interesting how his "return" to civilization turns out.
Title: Re: Comic Book Thread
Post by: Scott on December 13, 2004, 04:05 PM
I just got the first one because that's all they had.  And I think its a stroke of genius that Marvel stole DC characters and is using them in their own way
Title: Re: Comic Book Thread
Post by: Ben on December 14, 2004, 12:28 AM
mosnab-- Astonishing X-Men is worth the money. It's the only X-book I really keep track of anymore.

I do hope Whedon decides to stick around after his 12-issue run is up.
Title: Re: Comic Book Thread
Post by: Brian on December 14, 2004, 08:42 AM
Quote
Brian, the clonetrooper actually meets Luke on the "cliffhanger" splash page of Empire #26.  Going to be interesting how his "return" to civilization turns out.

Thanks for the clear up Mikey, I really didn't know what was going on in the comic, but just picked up my first (older) issue last week, and decided to take a look on Dark Horse's site to see what was going on now.  Sounds like an interesting storyline though....do you regularly read this comic?  If so, what do you think of it?

Quote
mosnab-- Astonishing X-Men is worth the money. It's the only X-book I really keep track of anymore.

I do hope Whedon decides to stick around after his 12-issue run is up.

Thanks for the recommendation HMI, I might have to check it out.  I haven't really read an X-comic since the 90s, and from what I have seen/read it looks like this "revamp" has been good so far.
Title: Re: Comic Book Thread
Post by: Mikey D on December 14, 2004, 09:37 AM
Thanks for the clear up Mikey, I really didn't know what was going on in the comic, but just picked up my first (older) issue last week, and decided to take a look on Dark Horse's site to see what was going on now.  Sounds like an interesting storyline though....do you regularly read this comic?  If so, what do you think of it?


Yep, regularly read Empire, Republic and Tales.  One shots and mini-series, I decide on once I browse through them at the store.  The majority of the stories are pretty good, but sometimes there are a few clunkers.  Honestly, right now, I like Republic more, but that's because it's dealing with the Clone Wars and I like seeing cool ass alien Jedi. 
Title: Re: Comic Book Thread
Post by: Bob Crane on March 9, 2005, 10:41 PM
A good little article on cartooning:

http://journal.aiga.org/content.cfm?ContentAlias=%5Fgetfullarticle&aid=%23%2C%2EK%24%0A

Ps. Notice the brief mention of Wally Wood, undoubtedly the greatest comic artist ever!
Title: Re: Comic Book Thread
Post by: Brian on July 22, 2005, 02:58 PM
After reading through Jeff's new Green Lantern thread over in the "Other Collectibles" area, it got me to thinking about comics and I thought I'd drudge up this topic to see what everyone is reading now (if anything).

When I first started back into comics, I decided to subscribe to a few of my favorites, since our nearest comic shop is a little ways away, and I didn't know if I'd want to/be able to drive over there all the time.  I know this probably isn't "the norm" for people to do, but I thought it would be easier.  It turns out I still stop in there occasionally ;).  I mainly stick to "superhero" comics, as well as a Star Wars one here and there.  Here's what I've been reading lately:

Amazing Spider-Man - subscribed to, and I've enjoyed it.  Read this comic as a kid too.

Fantastic Four - subscribed to as well, and I've also liked it.

Superman - subscribed to, and enjoy it when it comes.  Not sure if it is just me - or if it is DC - but this is always at least two weeks late, and I still haven't gotten the July 6 issue...the comic is fun for me though.

Superman/Batman - I've been picking up the collected works, but I have a few individual issues as well.  I like this book, a fun read for me at least.

House of M - A miniseries that I have picked up so far, and I'm interested to see where it goes.  I've also picked some of the "tie ins" like Spider-man - House of M and Fantastic Four - House of M.  I won't discuss any spoilers here, but it looks like some things in the Marvel U could be changing after this.

JLA - Haven't gotten an issue in awhile, just because I'm spending enough the way it is.  Always enjoy the JL though, although I admit I don't really know what's going on in there right now.

Ultimate Spider-Man - A title Mikey suggested, and it really is a nice read.  I've been picking it up in TPB form, but to be honest I haven't gotten one in awhile.  I guess I haven't had the money with all the ROTS stuff this year :P.

Star Wars - Haven't gotten any in awhile, but thinking about checking out the books when they "revamp" things in 2006.  I'd lean more towards the OT timeline tales myself, so I'd have to see how the set up is.  Sounds like there will be a Knights of the Old Republic style comic (ongoing), and then some miniseries...starting with "Rebellion" if I remember right.

Anyone else reading right now?
Title: Re: Comic Book Thread
Post by: Jeff on July 22, 2005, 03:17 PM
Here is my current subsciber list at Krayz' Comics:


Batgirl - this one has really grown on me.  She's not Barbra Gordon, but it's been pretty good lately with her move to Bludhaven.

Batman - I can never leave the Bat.

Detective Comics - The City of Crime story is OK, but it's kinda dragging on.  12 issues is a loooong time especially when 1-2 issues get delayed.   ::)

Gotham Central - I love this book.  A gritty "Cop Show" type of comic about how the Gotham Cops deal with the Bat.

Gotham Knights - Eh, I'm reading this one out of Habit now, I really should drop it since I'm tired of the Hush nonsense.  :-\

Green Arrow - Glad DC brought Ollie back - hard to believe it's been 4 years!

Green Lantern  - Thank you for Geoff Johns.  That dude flat out knows how to write comics.  I love his take on the newly resurrected Green Lantern Hal Jordan.   ;D

Green Lantern Corps: Recharge - Hasn't started yet (September), but I am so looking forward to the return of the GLC to the DCU.  About time!

Infinite Crisis - Hasn't started yet (October), but I'm really looking forward to this one to see if they can top CoIE.

JLA - I usually grab this one on and off, depending on the story and the fetured characters.  When it was Waid or Morrison, it was religiously, but now not so much.  I am hooked on the latest story line - the link between Identity Crisis and Infinite Crises.

JSA - Another Geoff Johns book.  I will most likely read anything this guy writes because he knows his Silver Age and mythos like the back of his hand.  Fantastic writer is the most important to me, I don't care how great a book looks, if the story sucks I hate it.   :-\

Nightwing - It's kinda floating in a strange direction now, but I'm hanging in to see where it ends up...

Robin - See Nightwing = new creative team = adjustment period to see if I like it

Teen Titans - SEE ABOVE COMMENTS ON GEOFF JOHNS.

The Flash - SEE ABOVE COMMENTS ON GEOFF JOHNS.  I never thought anyone would top Waid's run, but I LOVE what Geoff has done for Wally.  It's an absolute fantastic book and my second favorite (behind GL) at the moment.


That's pretty much it for me.  No Marvel anymore, no Star Wars anymore, but I can't leg go of my DC.   ;)
Title: Re: Comic Book Thread
Post by: Brian on July 22, 2005, 03:21 PM
Quote
The Flash - SEE ABOVE COMMENTS ON GEOFF JOHNS.  I never thought anyone would top Waid's run, but I LOVE what Geoff has done for Wally.  It's an absolute fantastic book and my second favorite (behind GL) at the moment.

This is one book I've been thinking about picking up.  I've always been kind of a fan of the Flash, but never really had the chance to read the comic as much as I would have liked growing up.  Glad to hear that it is recommended, might have to swing by the comic shop this weekend and pick up a couple of past issues to see what its like.
Title: Re: Comic Book Thread
Post by: Jeff on July 22, 2005, 03:28 PM
Quote
The Flash - SEE ABOVE COMMENTS ON GEOFF JOHNS.  I never thought anyone would top Waid's run, but I LOVE what Geoff has done for Wally.  It's an absolute fantastic book and my second favorite (behind GL) at the moment.

This is one book I've been thinking about picking up.  I've always been kind of a fan of the Flash, but never really had the chance to read the comic as much as I would have liked growing up.  Glad to hear that it is recommended, might have to swing by the comic shop this weekend and pick up a couple of past issues to see what its like.

The Flash is currently on part 4 of a 6 part story.  If you can go back a few issues (3-4) and pick up from there it's a fantastic story.  Basically the 1/2 of Flash's Rogues Gallery that have "gone" good are fighting with the "still evil" half of the Rogues.

It's all out mayhem with Wally in the middle trying his best to control it all when an old friend from the past (future?) drops in to cause chaos!  A great story and a great over view of 10-12 of Wally's biggest villians!

Jeff
Title: Re: Comic Book Thread
Post by: Scott on July 22, 2005, 03:33 PM
I'm reading The Avengers and Captain America from 1982!  I'll spare the part about where I am reading them :-*
Title: Re: Comic Book Thread
Post by: Mikey D on July 22, 2005, 03:46 PM
Current grabs:

Marvel:
Ultimate Spider-man
Ultimate FF
The Ultimates
Fantastic Four (regular)
The Pulse
Daredevil
Marvel Knights Spider-man
Supreme Power

DC:
JSA
Teen Titans
Outsiders

Others:
Empire
Republic
Tales
GI Joe
Savage Dragon

As you can see, I'm more of a Marvel guy.  Spidey is and always has been my favorite character.  But DC is putting out some quality books now.

I'm also catching on Powers after my comic book guy saw me buying all these Bendis' books and not buying this one.  He recommended it and I bought the first TPB and was hooked.  Just ordered volumes 7 & 8 and will add it to the monthly pull list once a good jumping on point begins.
Title: Re: Comic Book Thread
Post by: Matt_Fury on July 23, 2005, 12:39 AM
I used to read a lot of different titles....but kind of gave up on it years ago (about the time Spider-Man was having his little clone identity crisis).

A couple of years ago, I started reading Amazing Spider-Man again, when J. Michael Straczynski who was the creator of Babylon 5.  He really turned the title around and I was compelled to start reading it again.

The guy at the local comic shop is kind of suprised at me that I only buy the one title.  :D
Title: Re: Comic Book Thread
Post by: Famine on July 23, 2005, 01:22 PM
Latley I've been on a whicked Batman/Gothom/Robin kick. I recently picked up Dark Knight Strikes Again, Batman War Drums, and also Superman: Godfall. All really good books. I also picked up the Venom Vs Carnage saga in book form. Fantastic story, while the animation is a little weird.

I'm on such a kick I had T-Shirts with the current Batman logo from Hush and the latest storyline made up. I have to pick them up tuesday.

Jeff, please PM me and let me know whats up with Hush these days? Have they explained where Jasons body is? I have the Hush collection on my PC, but I read in the back of the latest Robin that Hush aproaches Catwoman next month...whatsupwithdat? ???

Kevin
Title: Re: Comic Book Thread
Post by: Dimetrodon on July 25, 2005, 07:34 AM
Current Reading Material:

Marvel:
Ultimate Spider-Man
Marvel Knights Spider-Man
Max Punisher
New Avengers
Mini series stuff (i.e. Wolverine vs. Punisher  / Daredevil vs. Punisher / Spider-Man: Breakout)

I nab TPB & Marvel masterworks now and then (the Ultimates, Avengers, Amazing Spider-Man, Dr. Strange

DC:

Random Batman Titles, if there is a cool bad guy in it.  ;D

Dark Horse:
SWEmpire
Republic
Tales

Devils Due
GI Joe: Reloaded

Wizard Press
Toyfare   ;) (not a comic, but damn close)
Title: Re: Comic Book Thread
Post by: Bob Crane on July 25, 2005, 11:10 AM
I’m been on a Corben kick, acquiring any graphic novels that I can find. When I was a kid I remember being mesmerized by his art- his technique is amazing.
Title: Re: Comic Book Thread
Post by: Brian on July 25, 2005, 03:11 PM
Quote
As you can see, I'm more of a Marvel guy.  Spidey is and always has been my favorite character.  But DC is putting out some quality books now.

I've usually been much the same.  Spidey is and always has been my favorite as well, and I really grew up on Marvel comics more than anything else.  DC characters appealed to me as well (particularly Superman, Batman, Flash/JLU), but I think overall I was more into the "Marvel Universe" overall.  Now, I seem to be split between the two.  For some reason I've been becoming more interested in DC characters lately, although I'm not sure exactly why.  A lot of it might stem from the Justice League, just because a "team" with all the big hitters on it is kind of neat to me.  I guess I still think the same way as I did when I was a kid with this :P.  It seems like, outside of Spidey, my Marvel favorites are more teams...X-Men, Fantastic Four, Avengers.  In DC, it isn't just JLA, I like the individual heroes as well.  Superman has always been a favorite, and of course, Batman as well, but I like characters like the Flash, Green Lantern, Hawkman, Captain Marvel, Green Arrow, etc.  A lot of neat individuals I think, that also happen to make a great team.  Anyways, I guess I've been more divided lately with my comics between DC and Marvel (and considering DH's Star Wars once they revamp things), but I guess its ok to buy both ;).  I'm still learning the DC universe, growing up moreso a Marvel kid :).  I think I'll always stick with the big two (for me) Spider-man and Superman.  After that, its kind of a mix of different things (F4, JLA, X-Men, Flash, etc.) that I happen to find interesting.  As in my collecting though, I really need to focus things in a little bit ;).

For you comic readers, to you tend to go with your favorite characters/teams' books...or do you follow particular writers/artists and try a variety of books?  Do you try something out just because of word of mouth or any reason like that?  I tend to stick with my favorite characters, usually regardless of writer/artist, unless I really dislike it.  Spider-Man and Superman (and F4 right now) are subscriptions for me, so I stick with those no matter what, but the others I sometimes pick and choose.  Just curious what some others' tastes are.
Title: Re: Comic Book Thread
Post by: Dimetrodon on July 28, 2005, 05:27 AM
I bought the vol. 1 of Preacher about two years ago and Finally read it. I must say, it was excellent, and I plan to get the entire series. I'm not sure what to say about it. It's written by Garth Ennis and illustrated by Dillon, a team who also did Punsher for a good while. Ennis still doing Punisher now even..

Basically about a guy who was a reverend in small Texan town and becomes possesed by an entity.
the spawn of the love between an angel and demon. Something of  Godly origin.. and then it takes off from there..

very cool, and a bit grapic at times.. I reccomend it.
Title: Re: Comic Book Thread
Post by: Ben on July 30, 2005, 05:30 PM
Current grabs:

Marvel
Amazing Spider-Man
X-Men
Uncanny X-Men (waiting for Claremont to leave this book. He's worse than Austen now)
Ultimate FF
Ultimate Spider-Man
Ultimate X-Men
The Ultimates (most recent issue really kicks ass)
Marvel Knights 4
MK Spider-Man
The Punisher MAX
House of M
Daredevil vs. Punisher: Means and Ends

DC
Batman

Devil's Due
GI Joe America's Elite

Dark Horse
Star Wars Empire
Tales (not anymore now that the most recent issue is the last)
Conan

Other
Red Sonja from Dynamite Press

I also read miniseries and other books like Milk & Cheese, Barry Ween: Boy Genius, and other stuff like that.
Title: Re: Comic Book Thread
Post by: Brian on August 9, 2005, 10:35 AM
Quote
Nightwing - It's kinda floating in a strange direction now, but I'm hanging in to see where it ends up...

Teen Titans - SEE ABOVE COMMENTS ON GEOFF JOHNS.

These are a couple of other titles I've been considering picking up lately.  I've always thought the Nightwing character was kind of cool, but haven't ever really read the comics.  It looks like he'll be getting a new look (http://www.dccomics.com/comics/?cm=4345) with issue #113.  Titans have always seemed like a pretty cool team to me too, and according to the "secret files" area of DC's site, Superboy is involved with the team too, so that's cool with me.  I've heard pretty good things about TT, and it seems like many of you here are reading it as well.  I'm just trying to sample a few things new and figure out a "core group" of monthly titles that I enjoy.  I can't get too crazy with a bunch of titles, because I can't afford it really.  Comics could be a pretty affordable hobby overall though, if it wasn't for all the Star Wars spending too :P.
Title: Re: Comic Book Thread
Post by: Brian on August 12, 2005, 12:02 PM
I picked up a few comics this week, and decided to pick up an issue (the latest) of Nightwing to see what it was like.  I haven't had a chance to read it yet, but thumbing through it doesn't look too bad.  I am really enjoying the JLA comic right now, and the newest issue was pretty good I thought.  I'm looking into making this a monthly buy, depending on where things are headed.  I might give Teen Titans a try as well, when the next issue comes out (24th I think?).  On the Marvel side of things, I picked up the latest House of M (#5).  It wasn't too bad, but it is still building it seems.  Still waiting for it all to break loose.  I won't go into it further in case others haven't gotten it or read it yet.  I'm interested to see what will happen next though.
Title: Re: Comic Book Thread
Post by: Scott on August 12, 2005, 12:15 PM
House of M continues the Scarlet Witch saga...correct?
Title: Re: Comic Book Thread
Post by: Brian on August 12, 2005, 02:21 PM
Yeah, basically spinning out of the events of the whole Avengers Disassembled thingy, I think (I didn't actually read those issues).  Here's the little "summary" that appears at the beginning of each House of M issue.  I don't think any of this is spoilers at this point since it is old news, but I'll leave some space in case people don't want to see:













Magneto has lost the war against ordinary humans for which he sacrificed the well-being of his children.  Now he is forced to watch his daughter Wanda, the Scarlet Witch, suffer a loss of control over both her powers and her grip on reality.  Quicksilver, Wanda's brother PIetro, pleased with their estranged father to help her.

Mutant leader Charles Xavier, who is unable to help the Scarlet Witch, gathers the Avengers and X-Men to decide how to proceed.  The heroes are not convinced that killing Wanda is the only solution, so they travel to the mutant nation of Genosha to confront her, in the hope of discovering what it is that she wants.

When they get to the island, Wanda is missing, as are Magneto and Pietro.  The world the burns to white.



The rest of the summary covers what various characters wake up to, basically an alternate reality...or altered reality where lots of things have changed.  Again, I won't detail them here if people don't want to know.  As a side note, I saw that ComicBookResources.com has posted the sales numbers for July, if anyone is interested.  Sometimes it is interesting to see what are the "top sellers", or the ones the "majority" of the population seem to be interested in anyways.  Clicky Here (http://www.comicbookresources.com/news/newsitem.cgi?id=5749)
Title: Re: Comic Book Thread
Post by: Jeff on August 12, 2005, 02:27 PM
I picked up a few comics this week, and decided to pick up an issue (the latest) of Nightwing to see what it was like.  I haven't had a chance to read it yet, but thumbing through it doesn't look too bad. 

The Nightwing book is headed in a really odd direction at the moment.

After a really bad decision (or rather a moment of in-action to prevent something), Dick's life took a very strange turn.  This, coupled with the recent War Game cross-over in the Bat-Books have taken Nightwing down a very strange road.  I'm still not sure where they are taking him.

His fall into crime and now team-up with Deathstroke ahve me going, "huh?"  Hopefully there is a payoff at the end of this story, I'd hate to see Dick become yet another "Good Guy fallen to the Bad Guys until he's saved" shtick.

Jeff
Title: Re: Comic Book Thread
Post by: Famine on August 12, 2005, 03:26 PM


The Nightwing book is headed in a really odd direction at the moment.

After a really bad decision (or rather a moment of in-action to prevent something), Dick's life took a very strange turn.  This, coupled with the recent War Game cross-over in the Bat-Books have taken Nightwing down a very strange road.  I'm still not sure where they are taking him.

His fall into crime and now team-up with Deathstroke ahve me going, "huh?"  Hopefully there is a payoff at the end of this story, I'd hate to see Dick become yet another "Good Guy fallen to the Bad Guys until he's saved" shtick.

Jeff
|

*SPOILERS*

I hear that Jeff, as I just picked up the latest Birds of Prey based on curiousness, and there's Nightwing and Huntress, and Dicks a criminal. Think this has anything with Bruce running for President (rumored)?

Kevin
Title: Re: Comic Book Thread
Post by: Brian on September 29, 2005, 03:02 PM
Just thought I'd check in and see what everyone is reading now, and what you're really enjoying?  I just made a run to the comic book store this week and picked up a handful of books, although I haven't read them all yet.  Here's a few things I've been reading lately:

Astonishing X-Men - Picked up the first TPB, and I really enjoyed it.  I hope to pick up the rest (2nd TPB) in a few weeks.  I did read the "finale" issue last month, and liked that quite a bit.  I'm looking forward to this series starting up again in 2006.  I'm trying to focus in on one X-book to keep up with, and it might be this one.

Amazing Spider-Man - Subscribed, and haven't read the latest one yet.  Currently on a Hydra story arc, and it hasn't been too bad.

Superman/Batman - I always enjoy this book, and just picked up the latest (#22) this week.  I haven't had a chance to read that one yet either, but the story has been good.  This book does seem mighty inconsistent with its release dates though, which is sort of annoying.

House of M (and tie ins) - I've been reading all the House of M issues, as well as the F4 and Spidey tie-ins, and I've been enjoying it so far.  I know reaction has been mixed on the whole House of M thing (isn't it always?), but I'm liking it so far, and really looking forward to the pay off.  Two issues left.

JLA - I just read the final book this week of the "Crisis of Conscience" storyline, which leads into Infinite Crisis.  I've really enjoyed JLA lately, and this arc in particular has been good I think.  Definitely looking forward to Infinite Crisis, to see what this is all about.  I've seen a number of different rumors, it will be interesting to see.

Superman - Another subscription, but its always a couple weeks late.  The last one had Bizarro (and Zoom) appear, and it wasn't too bad.  Not a bad book, but I'm enjoying JLA and Superman/Batman a little more right now.

Flash - I skipped this week's issue so far, but I've been enjoying them otherwise.  The whole rogue's arc was quite good I thought.  Johns just ended his run on this title, and I was kind of disappointed to see him go.

Fantastic Four - Subscribed.  Haven't received the latest issue yet, but it should be here any time.  I'm debating whether to renew or not, but I probably will.  Nothing overly exciting right now to me, but it hasn't been too bad either.

New Avengers - I started off with this book, and then didn't buy any issues for awhile, and then bought the last two again.  They are just starting off the "Ronin" storyline this week, delving into who exactly that mysterious ninja is.  I'll continue through this arc, then after that I'll see.

Star Wars - I haven't read a lot of Star Wars for quite some time, but picked up the TPBs of "A New Hope" and "Empire Strikes Back" this week because I found them cheap.  I also picked up Star Wars: X-Wing Rogue Leader #1 yesterday just to check it out.  Otherwise, I'm waiting to see what titles will be there after the new year comes I think.

Ultimate Spidey - I have a number of the TPBs, but haven't bought any for awhile.  I picked up a single issue this week just to check it out again, but I'll probably stick to the trades with this as it just seems easier.  I haven't read the newest one I picked up yet (#83), but it had Moon Knight guest starring and I thought I'd check it out.

Anyways, that got wordier than I planned...but what have you been reading lately, or what's been good?  I honestly need to try to narrow my "regular" books, since it seems like I'm picking up more and more comics each week.  There are just so many that interest me, its hard to know where to cut off:

Marvel - Amazing Spidey, Fantastic Four, House of M (ending soon), Astonishing X-Men, New Avengers - as well as "Ultimate" titles like Spidey, and considering checking out the others (F4, X-Men, Ultimates).
DC - Superman, JLA, the Flash, Batman, Superman/Batman - upcoming "All Star Superman", Infinite Crisis

I'm looking forward to the whole Infinite Crisis thing (especially after the ending of this week's JLA), and to continuing House of M (and the aftermath).  There's a big Spidey event coming up (The Other: Evolve or Die) that I'm considering whether I want to check out or not.  Anyways, just wanted to get the ball rolling on some comic discussion, and see what everyone is enjoying.
Title: Re: Comic Book Thread
Post by: Brian on October 12, 2005, 02:39 PM
Some good stuff out today, at least that I'm interested in (and picked up at lunch today):

JLA #120 - First post-Crisis of Conscience issue.

House of M #7 - Mini-series "Event" continues...

Infinite Crisis #1 - DC's big event begins.

Friendly Neighborhood Spider-Man #1 - New title, beginning of "The Other" storyline.

I also picked up the latest issue of Ultimate X-Men, just to check out the title.  Otherwise, I'm mainly excited about the big "event" issues, Infinite Crisis and House of M.
Title: Re: Comic Book Thread
Post by: Victor_Von_Doom on October 12, 2005, 05:11 PM
The titles I've been getting regularly are House of M, Ultimates 2, New Avengers, and then the occasional cross-over or What If? or Elseworlds.
Title: Re: Comic Book Thread
Post by: Brian on December 13, 2005, 03:55 PM
Just thought I'd check in and see what everyone is reading now...what is good, what isn't, etc.  For me, its been my "regulars" -

Subscribed Titles:
Amazing Spider-Man - I've actually been picking up Friendly Neighborhood Spidey and MK Spidey as well with this whole "the Other" storyline which has been a bit...different...so far.  I am thinking about picking up FN Spidey regularly after this though, as I like the team of Peter David/Mike Wieringo.

X-Men - After House of M, I've been reading the "adjectiveless" X-Men title fairly regularly, and checked out New Excalibur and some other titles as well.  I'm waiting for Astonishing to start up again, as I really enjoyed the first run.

Fantastic Four - Another "subscription" for me, always seems to be pretty good to me.

Superman - This, along with most of DC, is usually tied in with Infinite Crisis nowadays, which is a good thing.  I've also been picking up Action Comics and Adventures of... every so often.

Limited Stuff

Marvel - House of M finished up awhile ago, and I enjoyed it.  Lots of various titles dealing with the "aftermath" of things now, with some Decimation tie-ins, etc.  I've also checked out the X-Men: Deadly Genesis stuff, and that could prove interesting.

DC - Infinite Crisis: seems like it has been forever since the last issue, but that's probably partially because I've really liked it so far.  Can't wait for the next one to see what is going to happen.  I also picked up the first issue of "All Star Superman", and I hope to continue reading that.

Other Titles

Flash - In the middle of an arc right now, and sounds like the comic itself will be coming to an end in 2006...at least for awhile, maybe they'll do a "restart/renumbering" thing with it or something.  I just know that it isn't in the solicitations past February or so.

JLA - I'm reading the "World Without a Justice League" stuff right now, and it hasn't been too bad.  Nothing outstanding necessarily though.  This is another title I've heard rumors of leaving, but I'm sure it will just get a new title or something, because I can't see DC without a Justice League.  We'll see where it goes.

Superman/Batman - Always enjoy this comic, but it has been quite a break since the last issue.  Nothing new here.

New Avengers - I picked up/read the "Ronin" arc, and it was alright.  I do kind of like this book overall though, although I'm hoping more will start happening soon.

Batman - I've been picking it up here and there, but not as much lately.

Otherwise, what has everyone else been reading or enjoying?  I'm trying to figure out what comics I want to stay consistent with going into next year, as the Mrs. thinks between these and SW, I'm spending more than enough (and she's right).  I always try to stick with my big 4 (Spider-Man, Superman, X-Men, Fantastic Four) and I'd also like to add Friendly Neighborhood Spidey to the "regulars" as well.  Flash, JLA, and Superman/Batman are all regular buys for me too, but those titles seem to be a bit up in the air right now.  As far as stuff I'm not reading, I've been interested in getting back into some of the "Ultimate" titles again.  I've heard amazing stuff about Ultimates 2, and it has really gotten me interested in checking it out.  It seems to be one of the most universally praised comics nowadays.  I read quite a bit of Ultimate Spidey, and I'm thinking about starting that up again too, but we'll see.  I really need to narrow things up a bit, as always :P.
Title: Re: Comic Book Thread
Post by: Jeff on December 13, 2005, 04:02 PM
Hey Brian,

Have you heard about DC's OYL Project (http://comics.ign.com/articles/622/622219p1.html) (OYL = One Year Later)?

That is the reason that some of the titles are ending in February and "disappearing" - titles like Flash, JLA, Wonder Woman.  Plus they gotta end some titles to keep the speculation going for who dies in the InfCrises story.   ;)

It will be interesting once March gets here and we see a drastically re-vamped DCU with many heroes replaced/renamed.  All kinds of rumors abound on the net about who's getting the axe (Flash/Batman) and who will replace them...  :o
Title: Re: Comic Book Thread
Post by: Brian on December 13, 2005, 04:10 PM
I had heard a little bit about the OYL stuff, but wasn't sure where it was all headed.  It will definitely be interesting to see what the DCU will be like come springtime next year.  I've also heard about the "52" series coming from DC, that should "fill in the gaps" so to speak with that missing year.  The rumors have been crazy, it will be fun to see.  Definitely some good stuff coming out of DC, and I'm jazzed to hear that it sounds like Geoff Johns will be taking over Superman next year as well.  I'm really curious to see what will happen with "the Flash", he's always been one of my favorites and I'd hate for there to be no comic out.  We'll see I guess.  Too many good comics, too little money :).
Title: Re: Comic Book Thread
Post by: Matt_Fury on December 13, 2005, 07:15 PM
Is anyone reading the Multi-title cross over entitled "The Other".  It's going through a bunch of the Spider-Man titles right now.  I only really read Amazing Spider-Man due to Joe Straczynski's writing (you may remember him from Babylon 5).

The story is pretty good, although I'm missing a couple of issues and need to track them down.
Title: Re: Comic Book Thread
Post by: Brian on December 14, 2005, 10:21 AM
Quote
Is anyone reading the Multi-title cross over entitled "The Other".  It's going through a bunch of the Spider-Man titles right now.  I only really read Amazing Spider-Man due to Joe Straczynski's writing (you may remember him from Babylon 5).

The story is pretty good, although I'm missing a couple of issues and need to track them down.

Yeah, I've been reading it throughout.  I usually just read Amazing as well, but have picked up the other issues to read this whole crossover event.  I'm actually thinking about picking up Friendly Neighborhood Spidey regularly after this too, as Peter David will be writing and I'm a fan of Ringo's art as well.  It has definitely been an interesting...if different...story so far.  From what I've seen, some like it...some hate it.  I'm interested to see where it ends up, I've heard rumors of a new costume later on as well.  We'll see.
Title: Re: Comic Book Thread
Post by: knashdx on December 20, 2005, 10:45 AM
HOUSE of M

Can someone please send me an PM filling me in on what the whole House of M thing is?

I read a bunch of comics, but didn't feel the need to go and get all the other titles that I don't read to see this whole House of M thing since it started 4 months ago and didn't want a bunch of comics that I don't collect laying around.

Thanks
Title: Re: Comic Book Thread
Post by: Lady Jaye on December 20, 2005, 12:28 PM
Scarlet Witch had a nervous breakdown when she killed off Hawkeye, Vision, and someone else!! Avengers had disbanded, and left her to her father's care!! All of the sudden a white light and the universe had drastically changed. Instead of Homo Sapiens rulling the planet, Homo Superior did. It was like a world of Kingdoms, Magneto had his kingdom, Namor had his, etc!! Spidey was married to Gwen with a kid Prof X was dead. Captain America was an old man since he was never frozen in the block of ice. Just a lot of changes!!

Wolverine was in charge of a mutant team, Mystique, Toad, and others were under his command. But he was the only person who seemed to remember his real past. Eventually breaking through the lies he gets to Emma Frost who is in turn able to bring back the memories of others.

All signs pointed to Magneto being the person behind the events. But it turns out that it was Quicksilver who pushed Wanda into creating the alternate Universe. And that's all I remember from the books. I know all the crossover comics had no real tie in, IMHO. I just got the mini series!! Hope that helped some!! I would suggest getting the rest of the main mini series, leave the rest of the crossovers alone, not really needed.
Title: Re: Comic Book Thread
Post by: Brian on January 12, 2006, 10:57 AM
I don't know if anyone else here has been reading "the Other" storyline in the Spidey comics, or maybe just hearing about it, but there is a new costume coming at the end of the arc, courtesy of Tony Stark (Iron Man).  Marvel.com has updated with what the new costume will look like, clicky here (http://www.marvel.com/publishing/stories/showstory.htm?id=67) if you want to see it.  I won't post the picture here just in case anyone wants to avoid spoilers, or just avoid the costume :P, but you can see it at the link above.  I'm sure it won't last (I hope not), but it sure is a different take.  I can see why the colors are what they are, but I don't think I'd mind it as much if it were in Spidey's classic colors, or even black and white.
Title: Re: Comic Book Thread
Post by: Brian on February 16, 2006, 04:04 PM
So what has everyone been reading lately?  Anything in particular that is standing out, or some new comics/titles you are thinking about getting into?  I was hoping to narrow down my titles this year and save some money, but I'm finding there are more and more I'm intersted anymore.  Here's what I've been reading, at least somewhat consistently lately:

Marvel
Ongoing Titles: Amazing Spider-Man, Friendly Neighborhood Spider-Man, Astonishing X-Men, Fantastic Four, New Avengers
Ultimate Line: Ultimate Spider-Man, Ultimate Fantastic Four, Ultimate X-Men, Ultimate Extinction (mini), Ultimate Wolverine vs. Hulk (mini)
Other Mini-titles: X-Men: Deadly Genesis

The big ones I always pick up are Amazing Spidey, F4, and Astonishing X-Men, but I've started to pick up New Avengers pretty regularly the past couple months as well.  I have also liked Friendly Neighborhood Spider-Man so far, and I'm probably going to pick this up regularly as well...at least to give it a chance after "the Other" is now done.  I've really become more interested in the Ultimate line lately.  It used to only be Ultimate Spidey for me, but after giving F4 a chance, I've really liked that one as well.  I've picked up the last few Ultimate X-Men issues to give it a chance as well.  Ultimate Extinction is a mini that is just getting started, and I got the first issue of Ult Wolvie vs. Hulk, which looks good.

DC
Ongoing: Superman, Action Comics, JLA (currently done), The Flash (currently done), Superman/Batman, Batman
All-Star: Superman
Mini: Infinite Crisis

The main thing here has been Infinite Crisis, which I think has been great so far.  I'll always pick up the "flagship" Superman title, so that is a regular one as well.  I've got the first couple issues of All-Star Superman, which I think is really good as well.  I'm missing The Flash right now, but the title is supposed to be coming back in June.  I don't know who will be in the tights at that point, so we'll see.  He's always been a favorite of mine, so I plan on continuing on.  JLA is always done for now, but supposed to be seeing a relaunch as "Justice League of America" later this summer.  I'll be back on for that as well.  Superman/Batman is a title I've always liked, its been a little slower between issues lately though.  I haven't picked up Batman for awhile now, although I do like the character.

Things just aren't nearly as limited as I had hoped this year, as I've been tempted to check out some other titles here and there.  I started back into comics just wanting to stick to Spider-Man, then to stick to my favorite heroes:  Spider-Man, Superman, the Flash, X-Men, Fantastic Four, JLA, Batman.  I've since grown fonder of New Avengers, and I'm really liking the Ultimate titles now as well.  Its hard to know where to make the cut off.  I'm hoping to cut back considerably on collecting stuff (toys, etc.) compared to the last couple years, so hopefully I can afford a few more comics here and there.  I'm also interested in the Star Wars books, but I'm waiting for Star Wars: Rebellion to start up here in the next couple months.  Its set during the OT, so I'll probably be picking it up as well.  Anyways, long story short, what has everyone been reading...and what's been good?  Anything you are thinking about starting/dropping?
Title: Re: Comic Book Thread
Post by: Reid on February 16, 2006, 05:35 PM
The only place near me that sells comic books is a Borders about 7 miles away, but I don't go there often. But I went there last weekend and picked up Amazing Spider Man #528.
Title: Re: Comic Book Thread
Post by: Daigo-Bah on February 16, 2006, 09:32 PM
The only books I buy regularly are New Avengers and Captain America.  I'm also buying the Spider-Woman Origin limited series right now, and I plan to buy the Moon Knight book when that comes out.  I did get Astonishing X-Men 7-12, but I think the series is way overhyped.  It is definitely the best X book, but that's not saying much.  It's just that you open the comic, and finish it like 5 minutes later, since there is about 5 lines of dialogue.
Title: Re: Comic Book Thread
Post by: Ben on February 17, 2006, 02:21 AM
I took a chance on the new G1 Transformers book recently, and I have to say, I am quite disappointed with those stupid human characters. I guess that when I buy a book labeled "Transformers" I expect it to be about giant robots kicking the **** out of each other. But that might get boring. So I can see why they're there. At least these characters are more interesting than those ******* kids on the Robots In Disguise cartoon.

It's interesting enough to continue buying. Hopefully it turns out better than the Dreamwave comic did.  :P
There's a Beast Wars book that had its first issue this week, so I might try that one out. At least in this time period, there were no humans to get in the way.  :)
Title: Re: Comic Book Thread
Post by: BillCable on February 17, 2006, 12:56 PM
I don't know if anybody reads the Punisher, but in the most recent issue of the Slavers story arc, the Punisher confronts the woman who runs the whore houses in her office (of the front company that launders the money).  It's one of the most brutal sequences I've ever read.  Punisher #29 if you're interested.  It's the kind of thing that'll really stick with you.
Title: Re: Comic Book Thread
Post by: Ben on February 17, 2006, 10:48 PM
I think that was issue 28, where he chucks that chick out the window for a swan dive.

Issue 29 is where he torches that old guy and videotapes it.

I love that Punisher book. My favorite read every month.  :)
Title: Re: Comic Book Thread
Post by: BillCable on February 17, 2006, 11:27 PM
Haven't read part 6 of the Slavers yet...   :P

Part 5 was issue #29.  I looked at it before posting.  And yeah, it was the window thing.
Title: Re: Comic Book Thread
Post by: Ben on February 18, 2006, 01:03 AM
Oh, crap, you're right.

****, I just spoiled the next ish for you, didn't I? Please accept my apologies.  :-[
Title: Re: Comic Book Thread
Post by: BillCable on February 18, 2006, 10:49 AM
No harm.  We all know everybody dies in the Punisher.  ;D  There's still a lot of mystery on how he gets to that point.
Title: Re: Comic Book Thread
Post by: Lady Jaye on February 18, 2006, 12:06 PM
Wow, never knew that the Punisher was so rough now?? Might have to check out some isues!!
Title: Re: Comic Book Thread
Post by: Ben on February 18, 2006, 12:35 PM
It's the MAX title, so that means lots of sadistic violence, cursing enough to make a sailor blush, and nudity.

I'm not sure if the Marvel Knights Punisher title is still being published.
Title: Re: Comic Book Thread
Post by: BillCable on February 18, 2006, 01:49 PM
The only monthly Punisher title these days is the Max title.  Garth Ennis is the writer.  He's the guy that did the Preacher books for DC.  Now that the Punisher is a mature-only title, he's able to do just about anything he can imagine.  It's been a fun ride.   ;D
Title: Re: Comic Book Thread
Post by: Lady Jaye on February 18, 2006, 01:56 PM
Thanks for the info, will have to check it out once I am able to go back to the comic shop!! :D
Title: Re: Comic Book Thread
Post by: Brian on March 2, 2006, 03:37 PM
I picked up Infinite Crisis #5 yesterday, and without spoiling anything for anyone...I thought it was very good.  Overall, I've thought this "event" series has been great and I've really been enjoying it.  To be honest, I didn't read the first "Crisis on Infinite Earths", and mainly had to catch up on some of that by reading stuff online...but even aside from that, I feel that it is a good read.  Two issues to go, and I can't wait to see what happens.  I've always been more of a Marvel reader, but in the past year or so I've gotten further into DC as well.  This series has definitely helped to get me even more interested.  I'm still curious to see what will come of "The Flash" from all of this, and which Flash we'll be seeing in the relaunched "The Flash: Fastest Man Alive" title coming this summer.  Anyways...good stuff.
Title: Re: Comic Book Thread
Post by: Jeff on March 2, 2006, 03:53 PM
SPOILERS
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.
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I grabbed IC #5 as well and loved it.  I have a huge man-crush on Geoff Johns.   :-[  The IC story is really building now and it will be intersting to read how it rolls into 52 and then back into One Year Later

And yeah, the Flash returning in IC #5 was great.  The most interesting thing is that it sure looks a HECK of a lot like Barry's suit, not Wally's!  Which Flash is it?  Which Flash will be in the new DCU?  Mystery remains I guess.  They did reveal the cover to Flash #1, but it's REAL hard to tell which Flash it is since it appears to be a hybred of all of them or something...  :-\

Also, man I am loving hte One Year Later stuff I've seen so far...

Batman - One Year Later:  James Gordon is FINALLY back as Commissioner of GC.  That right there is totally wortht he whole OYL stunt.  I don't care what else happens, but so far Gordon is back, so is the bat-signal.  All is well so far in Bat-land.   :)

Batman Annual #25:  Tells us how/why Jason Todd is no longer dead.  A very interesting way to spin things and the first of many retcons that will occur thanks to the "temporal waves" unleashed by Superboy Prime and Alex Luthor breaking out of the dinemsion.  Very cool book.  I think after reading that Annual #25, I am finally ready to accept that they notonly brought Jason back, but now he's bad.  It takes the Jason Todd death angle away from Bats, but makes it tragic in a whole different sense.

I can't wait for Nightwing, Teen Titans and the rest to jump OYL...

And Brian, if you get the chance check out Green Lantern #9.  In that one issue Goeff manages to undo years of "crap" between Hal and Batman.  A fantastic read and even better that it finally resolves the last of the "Hal went bad" stuff between him and Bats.
 
Title: Re: Comic Book Thread
Post by: Brian on March 2, 2006, 04:15 PM
Quote
And yeah, the Flash returning in IC #5 was great.  The most interesting thing is that it sure looks a HECK of a lot like Barry's suit, not Wally's!  Which Flash is it?  Which Flash will be in the new DCU?  Mystery remains I guess.  They did reveal the cover to Flash #1, but it's REAL hard to tell which Flash it is since it appears to be a hybred of all of them or something...

Also, man I am loving hte One Year Later stuff I've seen so far...

Batman - One Year Later:  James Gordon is FINALLY back as Commissioner of GC.  That right there is totally wortht he whole OYL stunt.  I don't care what else happens, but so far Gordon is back, so is the bat-signal.  All is well so far in Bat-land.   

Batman Annual #25:  Tells us how/why Jason Todd is no longer dead.  A very interesting way to spin things and the first of many retcons that will occur thanks to the "temporal waves" unleashed by Superboy Prime and Alex Luthor breaking out of the dinemsion.  Very cool book.  I think after reading that Annual #25, I am finally ready to accept that they notonly brought Jason back, but now he's bad.  It takes the Jason Todd death angle away from Bats, but makes it tragic in a whole different sense.

I can't wait for Nightwing, Teen Titans and the rest to jump OYL...

And Brian, if you get the chance check out Green Lantern #9.  In that one issue Goeff manages to undo years of "crap" between Hal and Batman.  A fantastic read and even better that it finally resolves the last of the "Hal went bad" stuff between him and Bats.

I was tempted to pick up Green Lantern #9, but left it behind for now and regretting it.  I might have to pick it up next week if its still at the local shop.  Another comic I didn't get this week, but I think I'll get the next time I'm there (if I can) is Detective #817 - what I understand is the beginning of "OYL" in Bat-land.  From what I've heard it is pretty good.  I've heard the same about the Annual, so that's tempting as well.  I haven't really gotten all of the issues dealing with the whole Jason Todd situation, but I am curious to see how it was explained.  The cover to the new Flash #1 looks pretty sweet to me as well, but like you said Jeff, its tough to tell which Flash it is.  I've also read that the first Flash we see won't be the one that will be the regular, once that series starts.  I thought the Flash at the end of IC#5 looked an awful lot like Barry as well.  I'm kind of a fan of Wally Flash myself, but I get the feeling he might not be the one in the title OYL.  We'll see.  Definitely some great stuff out of DC lately, and the whole OYL concept (as well as 52) has my excited as well.  Between Marvel and DC, there are so many comics out there I'd like to get right now, another reason I've tried to cut back some of the collecting :P.
Title: Re: Comic Book Thread
Post by: Brian on March 30, 2006, 03:54 PM
Any read anything new/good lately?  I'm still really enjoying the whole Crisis/OYL thing with DC.  I really like how the Superman books have been so far OYL, and I picked up Batman (651) as well, and that looks good too.  I keep getting more tempted to pick up more DC titles, but I've been trying to keep the comics pending in check, not make it worse :P.  It all does look great though.  There's also been a preview online this week of the new Flash book coming this summer, and I can't wait for that.  Along with the new Justice Leage of America book hitting late summer/fall.  Good stuff on the horizon.  Also...continuing to pick up All-Star Superman, which is quite good I think.

On the Marvel side of things, I'm really getting interested in "Civil War" which is coming up soon.  I've been enjoying all of the Spidey books lately, and F4 and Astonishing X-Men have been good as well.  I've been getting further into the Ultimate stuff recently as well, after sticking to just Spidey for awhile, and those books have been enjoyable too.  Again, I'm always tempted by more titles in Marvel as well...and really grew up more of a Marvel kid than anything else...so there's always more titles calling to me.  The new Moon Knight starts up next week, which looks kind of cool.

Also...picked up "The Return of Tag and Bink: Special Edition" this week, and I really liked that.  I've never read the earlier issues, but have heard good things about them, and I thought it was a fun read.
Title: Re: Comic Book Thread
Post by: Reid on March 30, 2006, 04:38 PM
Picked up Amazing Spiderman #530 yesterday.
Title: Re: Comic Book Thread
Post by: Brian on April 28, 2006, 11:25 AM
Marvel has posted an "Opening Shot" (http://www.marvel.com/video/Civil_War_Opening_Shot_WV.mov) quicktime movie that details the events leading up to the beginning of next week's Civil War event.  It sounds like it could be quite a series, and I'm looking forward to it.  Plus, DC's Infinite Crisis is scheduled to wrap up next week as well - leading into the year long "52".  Lots of fun stuff in the comics right now.

As far as recent books - I'm personally really enjoying the "One Year Later" stories of both Superman and Batman (going through Action and Detective comics as well).  Also, Infinite Crisis has been great too, and I can't wait to see how it wraps up.  Looking forward to the Flash and Justice League revamps to start later this summer too.  On the Marvel side, the "Road to Civil War" has been going through a few of the books, and I'm enjoy the Spidey books (Amazing, Friendly, and Ultimate) a lot now too.  Fantastic Four is getting interesting as well, and Astonishing X-Men has been good in its first couple issues back as well.
Title: Re: Comic Book Thread
Post by: Famine on April 28, 2006, 11:27 AM
Brian, I haven't been able to get to the city latley to pick up my books, mind PM'ing me how they're adressing the Jason Todd issue in Batman OYL?

Kevin
Title: Re: Comic Book Thread
Post by: Brian on April 28, 2006, 03:36 PM
I personally missed "Part 1" of the story (in Detective #817 I believe) since my local shop was sold out by the time I got there - but, from what I've read in the last three issues I don't believe that Jason Todd has been mentioned.  I think that his story might be being covered in Nightwing, so someone else might be able to shed some light on that for you (Jeff - I thought you used to read NW fairly regularly?).  I've caught up with some of the story with what has been said online, but I'm sure I'm missing parts.
Title: Re: Comic Book Thread
Post by: Jeff on April 28, 2006, 03:42 PM
I personally missed "Part 1" of the story (in Detective #817 I believe) since my local shop was sold out by the time I got there - but, from what I've read in the last three issues I don't believe that Jason Todd has been mentioned.  I think that his story might be being covered in Nightwing, so someone else might be able to shed some light on that for you (Jeff - I thought you used to read NW fairly regularly?). 

Yeah...

SPOILERS
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Jason Todd is not dead OYL and is currently in New York City posing as Nightwing in that book.  They haven't really explained "why" Jason is now bothering Dick, but the explaination is coming soon I guess (hope)...  :-\

He's basically the same character as he was when he was the Red Hood, but it's just Grayson he's after instead of Bats.  Maybe he got tired of getting his ass kicked by Bruce so now he's moved down a notch?   :P
Title: Re: Comic Book Thread
Post by: Famine on April 29, 2006, 08:30 AM
*SPOILERS*








I think Jason is jealous of Dicky boy.






*END*


Kevin
Title: Re: Comic Book Thread
Post by: Darth_Anton on April 29, 2006, 09:41 PM
I'm not so much into comicbooks, but My neighbor recently loaned me a bunch of Alan Miller stuff. Read V for Vendetta, LXG vol.1 and The Watchmen. I was blown away by the Watchmen. Arguably, the best comicbook I've ever read.

Currently getting through Tom Strong.
Title: Re: Comic Book Thread
Post by: Brian on May 5, 2006, 01:09 PM
A pretty good week for comics, although I haven't gotten a chance to read all of them yet - but I did read the two "event" comics of this week.  First off, Infinite Crisis wrapped up this week with issue #7, and although I won't go into spoilers here, I really felt it was a great series.  It leads nicely into the whole One Year Later things, and likely into 52 (which starts next week).  Anyone else been keeping up with this series?

I also picked up the first issue of Marvel's Civil War this week, and I really liked it.  I'm pretty psyched for this series in general, because it seems like a good concept.  Plus, overall I've always been more of a Marvel fan at heart, and I was looking forward to a nice event like this.  I was sort of disappointed with House of M last year, although it wasn't bad, and I'm hoping this story lives up to the hype.  Reminds me of the same type of feeling I had about Secret War when I was a kid, even though not all fans enjoy that series now - it seemed pretty cool then.  Anyways, again avoiding spoilers, its a pretty nice first issue.  Definitely one to pick up if you are a Captain America fan.  I've always liked Cap, but with his stories recently I'm really finding his character even "cooler" (for lack of a better word).  Plus, Spidey is slated to play a big part as well, so I'm looking forward to that.

I haven't read anything else yet this week - but as a side note, I think the OYL stories for both Superman and Batman have been top notch so far.  Good stuff.
Title: Re: Comic Book Thread
Post by: Jeff on May 5, 2006, 01:14 PM
First off, Infinite Crisis wrapped up this week with issue #7...
(snip)   Anyone else been keeping up with this series?

Yeah, I've been keeping up.

- the fate of Alex Luthor?  Priceless.

- the conclusion to the Superboy Prime story?  Great!

- Have I mentioned how much I love the GL Corps being back in the DCU?   ;D  I'd love to get a full sized poster of this cover:

(http://dccomics.com/media/covers/5079_400x600.jpg)
Title: Re: Comic Book Thread
Post by: Brian on May 5, 2006, 01:29 PM
I thought that cover was pretty sweet too.  I thought of you Jeff when I saw all of the GLC action in the latest issue.  I really liked the fate of Alex Luthor as well, good stuff.
Title: Re: Comic Book Thread
Post by: Brian on June 15, 2006, 12:39 PM
Well, there's a pretty big hubbub gonig on over the latest issue of Civil War (#2) from Marvel.  I'll leave spoilers out in case anyone hasn't heard anything yet, but there's a pretty big change in store for my favorite character, Spider-Man.  Not quite sure how I feel about it, but there is definitely a wide variety of opinions on it so far from what I've seen.  As for the series itself, I'm really enjoying it so far.  Only two issues in, but it is a good read - at least for me.  Most of the other Marvel comics I read are tied into this in some way right now (Spidey, F4 - and eventually Cap, New Avengers, and to some extent X-Men).  I've read that Mark Millar (writer of Civil War) is a fan of the "old school" Marvel U, so I like that we're seeing more of those types of characters in the first couple issues.  Cap has been really good in this series as well.  Anyways, anyone else checking out Civil War?

On the DC side of things, I have to say I really like the "One Year Later" approaches to both Superman and Batman.  They each have 8 issue stories going on across the Detective/Batman and Action/Superman books, and I think both have been really interesting.  I'm looking forward to seeing what Flash has in store when his new #1 book is released next week - who's the new Flash?  If they handle it along the same lines as Supes/Bats, it should be good.
Title: Re: Comic Book Thread
Post by: Jeff on June 15, 2006, 12:53 PM
Well, there's a pretty big hubbub gonig on over the latest issue of Civil War (#2) from Marvel. 

No kidding.  It was all the guys at the LCBS could talk about yesterday.


SPOILERS
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I'm thinking that Peter's decision wasn't such a good one based on the cover to Civil War #5 - Hobgoblin, Venom, Bullseye, and more all kicking the crap out of "Iron Man Armor" Spidey!

http://www.newsarama.com/marvelnew/CivilWar/CW05Cvrpage.html

I'm not really a Marvel guy, but this one has definitely been worth reading...



who's the new Flash?

My money is on an aged version of one of Wally's kids. 
Title: Re: Comic Book Thread
Post by: Brian on August 22, 2006, 03:08 PM
Well, what's everyone been reading and enjoying?  I'm attempting to cut back on the titles I'm picking up, but here's what I've been keeping up on so far:

Marvel
Civil War - lots of delays coming up with the main book and main supporting books, but from what we've gotten so far I'm really enjoying it.  Civil War, Civil War: Frontline, Amazing Spider-Man, and Fantastic Four have been the main books I'm following - and a few of the other tie-ins.  It would be nice to have them all, but its just too much for me.

As far as other Marvel stuff, its mainly the other Spidey books - which have been good with their "unmasking" storylines, Astonishing X-Men (haven't gotten a new one until the one due this week), and Ultimate Spidey and Fantastic Four.  Also picked up the "Spidey and Friends" one shot, which was kind of neat - always enjoyed the cartoon when I was a kid.  I've also sporadically picked up Captain America and Daredevil, which have both been good.  If I could afford it, I'd probably stick with these books as well.  New Avengers hasn't been bad either, I've picked that up off and on.

DC
Superman and Batman - Really the main two titles I pick up here.  I've enjoyed the stuff starting off "one year later", and now we're getting into different teams on all of the books.  I'm debating whether or not to drop Action Comics - just to cut back titles, not because of the quality.  I'm enjoying the Detective Comics run now featuring Paul Dini from Batman: TAS fame.  I also continue to pick up the Superman/Batman comic, which I've always enjoyed.

Other Stuff - Well, I'm looking forward to the Justice League of America returning with this week's #1.  The roster has already been spoiled online, but it looks interesting.  I've been picking up the new Flash book, but I'm on the fence with that one right now.  I've always been a fan of Wally West Flash, and it doesn't look like he'll be part of this book in the foreseeable future.  We'll have to see on that one.

Star Wars
I pick up Rebellion each month, and I've liked that.  I've also been picking up the new Legacy book, but we'll see where that goes from here on out.
Title: Re: Comic Book Thread
Post by: mousedroid on August 24, 2006, 04:02 PM
I watched Jeopardy! last night and it's the High School tournament I believe.  One of the catagories in the first round dealt with Marvel comics characters.  The players had to identify by sight as well as clue:

$200 - Iron Man
$400 - Bruce Banner as the Hulk's alter ego
$600 - (I can't remember)
$800 - Thor
$1000 - Hawkeye

Of the five answers, only Thor came easily.  None of them knew Bruce Banner is the Hulk. I think the kid who guessed Iron Man only got it because Alex mentioned it was also a famous triathalon.  The clue for Hawkeye mentioned that his name was also the nickmane for Iowa, which caused one kid to guess he was, "The Hoosier"  ::)

What the heck, don't kids in high school read comic books any more?
Title: Re: Comic Book Thread
Post by: Brian on January 23, 2007, 12:22 PM
What is everyone reading lately?  Seems like there is a lot of books out there these days, much different than when I was growing up - and I'm really trying to think about which ones to stick with for this year and beyond.  What has everyone been reading?

Marvel

Civil War of course is the big deal right now, and although the delays have been annoying, I have enjoyed it and I'm looking forward to seeing how it wraps up at this point.  There are a number of rumors, many of which I hope don't pan out.

Other Titles I'm Reading - Amazing Spidey, Fantastic Four, Astonishing X-Men, and Ultimate Spidey are pretty much constants.  Others I currently pick up include Friendly and Sensational Spider-Man, New Avengers (and upcoming Mighty Avengers), and Captain America.  I've checked out a couple of other books occasionally as well (Thunderbolts, Daredevil), but like I said, I need to decide what I want to stick with.

DC

Here, I attempt to keep things restrained a little more since I'm such a Marvel buyer.  I'm really enjoying the new Justice League of America, and plan to continue with that.  I also like the Superman/Batman comic, although I know it isn't the main "in continuity" book for either character.  Other than that, its Batman and Detective, and Action comics.  I was reading Superman, but have taken a break lately and just stuck with the Johns/Donner Action Comics.  I also really like the Flash, but dropped out of the new book after the first couple issues.  I might start up again with Issue 9 when a new team takes over.  I've picked up Green Arrow sporadically as well, but nothing consistent. Oh, and All-Star Superman as well, when it actually comes out.  Kind of a neat book.

Star Wars

Legacy has been pretty good I think, and one of the few times I've enjoyed SW stories that weren't necessarily based on characters I know from the movies.  I picked up the first "Dark Times", but I'm undecided about the rest.  I picked up Rebellion when it was out, but I think it is now on break (alternating with Dark Times I believe).  Mainly just Legacy here.
Title: Re: Comic Book Thread
Post by: Jeff on March 7, 2007, 11:27 AM
Marvel

Civil War of course is the big deal right now, and although the delays have been annoying, I have enjoyed it and I'm looking forward to seeing how it wraps up at this point.  There are a number of rumors, many of which I hope don't pan out.

Brian, now that it's over, what did you think of Civil War?  I was tempted to pick it up, but never did...


Oh and...



HUGE SPOILERS AHEAD!

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SERIOUSLY!  HUGE CAPTAIN AMERICA SPOILERS!

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DO NOT CLICK THESE LINKS unless you want CAPTAIN AMERICA #25 spoiled!

SPOILERS - Shocking Event in Captain America #25 (http://www.cnn.com/2007/SHOWBIZ/books/03/07/captain.america/index.html)

http://www.newsarama.com/marvelnew/CapAmerica/DDream/Cap_pages-2.jpg

Quote
Goodbye, Steve Rogers.   :'(

I'm definitely going to have to grab this one today at the local shop...
Title: Re: Comic Book Thread
Post by: Jayson on March 7, 2007, 12:26 PM
WOW!  :o
Title: Re: Comic Book Thread
Post by: Famine on March 7, 2007, 01:45 PM
Damn, that sucks a lot. :(

Kevin

EDIT: Fox News (http://www.foxnews.com/story/0,2933,257398,00.html) has the SPOILER on their main page.
Title: Re: Comic Book Thread
Post by: Brian on March 7, 2007, 04:15 PM
Quote
Brian, now that it's over, what did you think of Civil War?  I was tempted to pick it up, but never did...

Overall, I enjoyed it.  I don't know if it lived up to everyone's expectations or not, and the ending wasn't as much of a "big bang" that many thought/hoped it would be - but overall it wasn't too bad.  The art was amazing, and I can definitely see what Marvel/Joe Quesada have been touting - that it will leave the Marvel U in a very different place and allow new/different stories.  I'm trying to look at it objectively, because I will admit I always like the stories where a big mess of my favorite heroes and other characters are involved.  That's why I liked Secret Wars as a kid too ;).

Regarding the spoiler mentioned earlier - I won't go into it now in case anyone hasn't heard - but yikes, it does suck.  We all know how these things go in comics, but still, its kind of a downer.  The issue is very good though, I picked it up today at my LCS.
Title: Re: Comic Book Thread
Post by: Scott on March 7, 2007, 07:40 PM
Holy crap is that etarded.  Much like when they killed Hawkeye I give Marvel a big FU.  These are humans not super humans...any "resurrection" is just super lame beyond all belief.  I'm glad I don't read comics any more and probably never will again.  Its become a sad marketing tool ever since DC "killed" Superman...in fact how many former heavy hitter Avengers are now currently "dead" and have been killed over the last 4 years?  Hawkeye, Thor, Vision, Ant-Man to name a few...again...lame
Title: Re: Comic Book Thread
Post by: Famine on March 7, 2007, 07:52 PM
When did Thor bite it?!

Kevin
Title: Re: Comic Book Thread
Post by: DSJ™ on March 7, 2007, 08:41 PM
Whoa, very sad.   :'(
Title: Re: Comic Book Thread
Post by: Nicklab on March 7, 2007, 08:42 PM
I only read Star Wars titles these days, but man was it funny walking into the comic shop today to pick up the new issue of LEGACY.  The phone kept ringing every few minutes and the guy in shop is almost yelling into the receiver saying "NO, WE'RE SOLD OUT OF CAPTAIN AMERICA!"

What a way for things to go.  I guess maybe the whole message behind X-Men of people being outsiders and part of a minority didn't resonate with readers anymore.  Marvel has had this history of trying to be socially inclusive, but this story twist definitely pushes those boundaries even further.
Title: Re: Comic Book Thread
Post by: Darth_Anton on March 7, 2007, 11:44 PM
I don't know if this was available to anyone else, but my Sunday paper had been reprinting the first 12 issues of "The Amazing Spider-man." I discovered this late and missed most of the issues, but I have to say, I got a real kick out of reading some of the adventures. Now I understand why Stan Lee is so revered.
Title: Re: Comic Book Thread
Post by: DSJ™ on March 9, 2007, 10:46 PM
Interesting tid bit on superherohype.com (http://www.superherohype.com/news/topnews.php?id=5314) about an easter egg in the clip of 300.

First Look at Watchmen! (http://www.aintitcool.com/node/31814)
Title: Re: Comic Book Thread
Post by: Brian on March 13, 2007, 03:19 PM
Regarding the big spoiler from last week, if this story has anything to it - it could be getting worse (depending on your point of view).  This might just be a red herring, and likely temporary either way, but this was posted over at Newsarama (http://forum.newsarama.com/showthread.php?t=104938), which they received from Marvel.  SPOILERS - if true.
Title: Re: Comic Book Thread
Post by: Mikey D on March 13, 2007, 03:40 PM
Good God, that is one horrendous looking costume.
Title: Re: Comic Book Thread
Post by: Brian on March 13, 2007, 03:44 PM
Yeah, that's kind of what I was thinking.
Title: Re: Comic Book Thread
Post by: Jeff on March 13, 2007, 04:59 PM
I think that's more Marvel trickery.  Lately, they seem to be taking an upcoming summer comic cover and doctoring it up for "fun".

Newsarama showed off a Cap teaser image last week too...

New Captain America?
(http://www.newsarama.com/NewJoeFridays/NJF31art/rogers_ironman_t.jpg)

Based off this Real Marvel Cover:
(http://i16.ebayimg.com/04/i/000/91/e6/3119_1.JPG)

I don't think they'd give it away so soon, I think the "Cap is Dead"  story will play out a bit longer before someone else replaces him...
Title: Re: Comic Book Thread
Post by: Brian on March 23, 2007, 03:18 PM
I was curious, for those of you who buy/read comics these days - how many titles do you end up picking up each month?  Much like collecting, I'm really looking to see if I can scale things back a little bit - but there just seems to be so many titles I'm interested in.  Ideally, it would be nice to limit it to 10 (or less), but honestly - here's the comics I've been picking up at least somewhat regularly recently:

Amazing Spider-Man
Fantastic Four
Astonishing X-Men
Ultimate Spider-Man
New Avengers
Mighty Avengers
Friendly Neighborhood Spider-Man
Sensational Spider-Man
Captain America

Star Wars: Legacy

Justice League of America
Action Comics
Batman
Detective Comics
Flash: The Fastest Man Alive
Superman/Batman
Brave and the Bold

That's around 17 total, give or take, as well as the occasional other book I'll pick up here and there.  I'm more of a Marvel reader overall, and I'm more familiar with that universe, but I've been picking up some DC stuff as well.  I cut back to one Superman book (Action instead of Superman), and I'm attempting to do the same with Batman (but that's been tougher).  I enjoy reading all the books, and would probably read even more, but I've just got to make some tough choices and cut some.  Anyways, I was just curious for the comic readers here - how many books do you usually pick up each month.  How do you decide which to keep and which to skip?  If I didn't collect other stuff (action figures/etc.) already, it wouldn't be a problem - but I spend enough there that I feel kind of bad spending a lot on comics as well.  What do your lists look like?
Title: Re: Comic Book Thread
Post by: Jeff on March 23, 2007, 03:32 PM
What do your lists look like?

Batman
Detective Cmoics
Nightwing
Robin
Green Arrow
Green Lantern
Green Lantern Corps
Justice League of America
52

I started to read the "Flash: The Fastest Man Alive" relaunch, but I dropped it after 2 issues of "Bart-Flash".  ::)  He was tolerable as Kid Flash, but I miss Wally (why'd they ditch him anyway? >:()

I pick up the occasional special and tie-in books, but those are my core.  No regular Marvels or Dark Horse for me, but I do pick up things on referral here and there.  For the SW comics, it's totally story dependant (for example, I'll read a Vader or Han story arc, but I skip the "random Rebel EU story" arcs).
Title: Re: Comic Book Thread
Post by: Lady Jaye on March 23, 2007, 03:32 PM
Simply because of cost, I really limit myself on what I buy!! Also because of the length of comic books these days!! It seems like half the pages that they used to be, but yet 4 times what they used to cost!! >:( I know why, because of the limited nature of comic shops!!

Anyhow, here is what I try to pick up on a monthly basis:

Exiles - has been one of my faves since I can remember. Always a fun adventure book.

Thunderbolts - Even before the big changeup I tried to pick up this series. Sure not the best artwork, and the writing isn't on par with some of the other popular books, I like it because it reminds me of the good ole days of comics.

Amazing Spider Man - Just got back into the title because of Civil War, very good writing, and fresh artwork will probably have me sticking around till the change up the line up!

JSA/JLA  - The only 2 DC books I pick up. I like em, have most of the major characters, so I don't have to pick up individual titles!! ;D

Young Avengers - Another great book, too bad it never comes out on time. I picked up the Runawaywas/YA book during Civil War, hopefully YA comes back!!

Mini Series

Civil War

Phoenix Endsong/Warsong

X-23 (I have loved both mini series, the artwork is always gorgeous, and the story is always gripping!! That lil girl is a death machine on 2 feet!!)

Books I'm no longer buying:

New Avengers - Just didn't like the artwork, in fact I hated the guest artists, and don't like the current one!! Finch you need to come back, no one can draw Spider Woman like you!! ;)

Books I will be giving a try:

Mighty Avengers - Want to see what, IMHO, traiterous Avengers team is going to be like!!

That's it, not one X-Men book!! That used to be my life as a kid, but no longer!!
Title: Re: Comic Book Thread
Post by: Brian on March 23, 2007, 03:44 PM
Quote
started to read the "Flash: The Fastest Man Alive" relaunch, but I dropped it after 2 issues of "Bart-Flash".    He was tolerable as Kid Flash, but I miss Wally (why'd they ditch him anyway? )

I was in the same boat Jeff.  I picked up the first two issues, then dropped it until the last two (9 and 10) came out.  There was a new writer (Guggenheim) that took over at #9, so I decided to give it another shot.  It is much better than the previous writing team, but I'm still considering dropping it too.  I'm just more of a fan of Wally West (I agree, why did they get rid of him?) as Flash, and its not the same to me this way.  I think I'm just "settling", and buying it because "its Flash".  Your pull list looks a lot more manageable than mine though, I need to really think it through again.
Title: Re: Comic Book Thread
Post by: Lady Jaye on March 28, 2007, 09:26 PM
Well since I don't get to the comic shop that often, my buy today was more than usual!! Had some catching up to do!!

X-23 - Ok, if you haven't picked up this or the previous series, why?? Why do you read comics in the first place if you don't pick up this must read comic!! The artwork is gorgeous, some of the best stuff I have ever seen, clean, simple, but colorful and detailed. However it doesn't end there, the story is phenomenal!! I mean this is the kind of stuff Wolverine should be doing, but isn't!! The kind of stuff this lil girl does is unbelievable!! Check out the kitchen scene from issue 4 if you don't believe me!! Best part, is that you care about the characters, you really do. So when something bad happens, you feel sorry for em!! I can't stress enough, a must read book!! I will pick up anything the team Kyle, Yost, and Choi do with this character!!

Amazing Spider Man - Well gotta say, I'm back into Spidey, and I'm loving it. Takes me back to when I first got into comics and he ahd the black costume. Of course that was the symbiote costume, but that's a different story. Anyhow, sharp story, great drawings, and a darker Parker now that...well read the story to see what drove him back the Black costume. What he does is whoa!

JSA

JLA - Very good issue with the JSA fighting Amazo, that's one tough ass robot, and Red Tornado taking on a very smart and sadistic Solomon Grundy. Loved seeing that even the heavy hitters could not take out Amazo. who does and how they do it, is very, very cool!

The Mighty Avengers - I'm hoping the team for this book stays for a while!! I left New Avengers cause the artist left, I don't like Yu, and hated the interim artists until he got there! So this will be my only Avengers book for now!! Interesting start, a bit wordy with the dialogue between Ms. Marvel and Shell head. The introduction of Ares, quite funny. The battle with the villain is done pretty well. I like the book so far, and will give it a try for a while!!

I have a few more, but haven't got to em yet,

Thunderbolts 111 & 112

Exiles

Fantastic Four

Title: Re: Comic Book Thread
Post by: Brian on July 2, 2007, 10:35 AM
So, what's everyone been reading lately?  I heard that the Sinestro Corps special released last week was pretty amazing (I thought of you Jeff), and it sounds like Green Lantern stuff might be getting pretty interesting.  I'm starting to consider what comics I want to continue reading, and setting up a pull list at our local store.  I haven't ever done that before, but the little one will be here soon, and I know I won't get over there as much (also the reason I've started preordering more SW stuff too).

I'm subscribed to a few comics from Marvel, and I'm kind of excited to hear that Amazing will be going to 3x a month now (replacing the other two titles).  I bought all three most of the time anyways, so its not much difference to me I guess, and I like that it might allow for a more tightly woven storyline/continuity with one title.  I might be in the minority with something like that though.  I've also continued to read Fantastic Four, Astonishing X-Men, Ultimate Spidey, and the Avengers books.  I picked up the first issue of World War Hulk and enjoyed it, so I'm planning on continuing that as well (just the main book though).  I'm more of a Marvel reader overall, but some of the DC stuff is getting interesting as well.  I think if I was more familiar with the DCU history, it might be ever more tempting.  I pick up Detective and JLA regularly, and I'm considering jumping back into Flash since Wally will be coming back this fall.  I also pick up Star Wars: Legacy, which I think has been really good.  I'm thinking about jumping on board GI Joe: America's Elite with Issue 25, since that is starting the big World War III storyline from what I understand.  Anyways, just curious what everyone's been reading/enjoying.
Title: Re: Comic Book Thread
Post by: evenflow on July 2, 2007, 12:55 PM
I was reading the Civil War, World War Hulk, and Annihilation stuff. I just dropped everything though. Before Civil War i had not bought a comic in at least 10 years. I didnt want to get completely sucked back in. I am curious how WWHulk and Annihilation play out though.
Title: Re: Comic Book Thread
Post by: Brian on July 2, 2007, 01:01 PM
Yeah, there are times I think I should have never started back up again too.  Much like Star Wars, I started only with Amazing Spider-Man, then added Ultimate Spider-Man, then Fantastic Four, then X-Men, and so on.  I keep telling myself, if I need to drop it I could, and just continue my subscription to Amazing and be happy with that.  Then I make it worse by wanting to start something completely new like the Joe comics.
Title: Re: Comic Book Thread
Post by: Jeff on July 2, 2007, 09:16 PM
I heard that the Sinestro Corps special released last week was pretty amazing (I thought of you Jeff), and it sounds like Green Lantern stuff might be getting pretty interesting. 

Between the GL "Sinestro War" stuff, the JLA "Lightning Saga" (including the return of a certain someone to the DCU) , and the stuff going on in Flash, I have been in full DC mania mode.

My list looks like this:
- Countdown
- Batman
- Detective Comics
- Nightwing
- Robin
- Flash
- Green Lantern 
- Green Lantern Corps
- JLA

upcoming:
- All New Booster Gold
- JLA GreenArrow/Black Canary Wedding Special Stuff


I'm loving Johns work on GL -

SPOILERS

The Sinestro book was fantastic.  I can't wait for this thing to kick into high gear - the worst five villians in GL/DC history uniting to do battle with the entire 7200 member GLC?  *drool*  It was crazy to see the Anti-Monitor again...

And Flash?  Don't even get me started on Flash #13, poor Bart Allen, and the return of the Wests!   ;D

I'm also digging Countdown, though it seems to be a bit slower paced than 52 was...
Title: Re: Comic Book Thread
Post by: Jim on July 11, 2007, 12:29 PM
I finally picked up all my books that have been in storage for 15+ years and started bagging an boarding all of them.  I was quite surprised to what I had and the condition of most.  I faithfully collected Marvel from 1975 through 1991 and all my titles are complete runs with no missing issues.  Would like to complete the 70's at some point since that was my favorite era. I quit collecting in '91 when the art just went in a different direction and I quickly lost interest.  Here's some of the hightlights

Fantastic Four #170-325
Hulk #200-350
Cap America #200-350
Avengers #160-325
X-MEN #110-275
Daredevil #115-250
Iron Man #90-250
Spider-Man #125-350
Star Wars #1-107
Defenders #5-125
Ghost Rider #20-81
Power Man & Iron Fist #20-125
Thor #275-350
Doc Strange #20-75
Peter Parker #4-75






Title: Re: Comic Book Thread
Post by: Mikey D on July 11, 2007, 01:42 PM
I've been a Marvel whore since day one of me reading comics.  I'd grab the occasional DC book, but Marvel was it for me.  I can't say that anymore.  The majority of my monthly pulls are now DC books.  I guess it goes to show what good writing and stories can do.  Daredevil and Ultimate Spider-man are my only two Marvel books I grab every month.  I recently dropped Ultimate FF, the 616 FF and Civil War and all its tie ins were pretty underwhelming.  I'm interested in WWH, but didn't read Planet Hulk, so I'll probably wait for the trades to come out and read it then.  I've also decided to drop the Star Wars books.  Rebellion is boring me to tears, the good Clone Wars stuff that was in Republic is no more and Legacy just doesn't grab me (it really doesn't feel like SW to me).

From DC I grab each month:  Teen Titans, Justice Society, Justice League, Outsiders, Batman and Countdown (and grabbed each week of 52). 

GIJoe and Savage Dragon (which is way behind schedule) are the only two non DC or Marvel books that I grab.  I don't get the monthlies of Powers or 100 Bullets, but starting to read the TPBs and will read them that way. 


Title: Re: Comic Book Thread
Post by: Morgbug on July 11, 2007, 03:13 PM
I quit collecting in '91 when the art just went in a different direction and I quickly lost interest. 

Boobs over plot, that era beginning in the early 90s? ;)  Or are you referring to the multiple cover era?  Has Valiant resurfaced as a company yet with the old titles :-X
Title: Re: Comic Book Thread
Post by: Jim on July 11, 2007, 03:24 PM
I quit collecting in '91 when the art just went in a different direction and I quickly lost interest. 

Boobs over plot, that era beginning in the early 90s? ;)  Or are you referring to the multiple cover era?  Has Valiant resurfaced as a company yet with the old titles :-X

Story lines and art ended it for me.  More the art though.  I was never fond of the whole McFarlane art with Spidey, Hulk, etc. and how this spread through the classic titles with other artists.  It also bugs me that a ton of the original titles ended and restarted ???

Fortuneately there are hundreds of issues from the 70's (and 60's) that I would like to complete at some point.   I would like to try and complete a few of the original titles, especially Spider-Man.  Those first 40-50 issues are soooo expensive.  At last count I think I have around 240-250 of the first 300 Spidey issues.  My earliest only being #41.

Title: Re: Comic Book Thread
Post by: Darth_Anton on July 16, 2007, 09:21 AM
My neighbor just loaned me the All Star Superman collection, so far, it's pretty good.
Title: Re: Comic Book Thread
Post by: Brian on August 21, 2007, 03:48 PM
Quote
I've been a Marvel whore since day one of me reading comics.  I'd grab the occasional DC book, but Marvel was it for me.  I can't say that anymore.  The majority of my monthly pulls are now DC books.  I guess it goes to show what good writing and stories can do.

For some reason, I've started to get into DC more and more like this lately as well.  I can't say I'm necessarily disappointed with the Marvel stories, but I've just been in a bit of DC mood (watching a lot of DCAU DVDs while I work out lately too).  Much like collecting, I'm looking to streamline what I buy (need to save some money in these areas) - so there's a part of me that wishes things were like the "old days" (such as one Avengers book featuring Cap, Iron Man, Thor, etc./Uncanny X-Men holding most/many of the "main" X-characters).  Anyways, between subscriptions (I've been subscribed to Amazing Spidey for years) and my pull list, here's what I'm picking up currently:

Marvel
Amazing Spider-Man
Fantastic Four
Astonishing X-Men
New Avengers
Mighty Avengers
Ultimate Spider-Man

DC
Detective Comics
Batman
The Flash
JLA

Other/Limiteds
G.I. Joe - America's Elite
Star Wars: Legacy
World War Hulk
New Avengers: Illuminati
All-Star Superman (sometimes)

Not a terrible amount of comics, but still more than I should pick up I guess.  There's a couple other titles (Action and Green Lantern) that I wouldn't mind picking up too, but I've got too many already.  It would be nice to pick up 10 books or less (which I'm perfectly capable of doing, I know, but its hard to make the cuts).  Like I said, I miss the simpler (less titles) days of my youth :P.
Title: Re: Comic Book Thread
Post by: Brian on October 11, 2007, 12:31 PM
This was just posted on Marvel.com (http://marvel.com/news/comicstories.1640.Captain_America_Lives?  utm_campaign=*******&utm_source=main+graphic&utm_medium=big+graphic+link&utm_content=%2Fnews%2Fcomicstories.1640.  Captain_America_Lives), regarding some new Cap. info/pics.  Spoilers may apply, but it doesn't really show anything more than art and teasers - nothing really given away.  It will be interesting to see where this goes.  On, and the press release on Marvel states that it is not Steve Rogers.

Newsarama article (http://forum.newsarama.com/showthread.php?t=132577)
Title: Re: Comic Book Thread
Post by: Mikey D on October 11, 2007, 03:34 PM
Why's he all shiny?  Is Silver Surfer becoming Cap?
Title: Re: Comic Book Thread
Post by: Brian on October 12, 2007, 10:52 AM
Interview at Newsarama (http://forum.newsarama.com/showthread.php?t=132706) with Ross and Brubaker about the new Cap look.
Title: Re: Comic Book Thread
Post by: name on October 12, 2007, 11:28 AM
Quote
AR: More the latter. I think some people will look at the design and get some strong suspicions of who’s under the mask, and that person, that character, went a long way towards guiding it.

NRAMA: But it’s not Steve Rogers?

AR: Nope. Not Steve Rogers.

NRAMA: So the person under the mask had some effect on your design, but back when we spoke about Avengers/Invaders, you spoke about how Captain America’s costume is one of the most iconic in comics – something that you would hesitate to alter or change…

BLAH BLAH BLAH....


AR:  .....We all just arrived at this point where we all came to the conclusion that it would look cool if you just pull the design element all the way up, so you get kind of a classic looking Cap, but with the spin of a new headpiece and armor. That is there to give the idea that…well, someone is tangential to the new suit’s design in the Marvel Universe. Someone who felt that Captain America would need something more protective than just chainmail. As much as I love that chainmail...

NRAMA: Right – which follows that, if you, or if a fictional character within the Marvel Universe is redesigning Cap’s uniform, there are better materials out there to use than chainmail., which, despite technology of the 1940’s, still made sense for the original costume…

I've been out of comics for years and years, except to just keep my finger on the big arcs and developments, but this sounds like Tony Stark to me....
Title: Re: Comic Book Thread
Post by: JediJman on October 18, 2007, 06:37 PM
I'm betting that its Winter Soldier AKA Bucky.  I'm not at all familiar with this character, but he seems to be fond of guns and was obviousl close to cap.  He makes good sense as a replacement.  Seems out of place ot bring in someone new, its not a good fit for the punisher (who would have 20 more guns stashed in the outfit), and I think think it will be Clint Barton (AKA the original Hawkeye), as he's already got too many costumes between being Hawk and Ronin.  That and he already turned down the job.

As for the costume...wow.  What do you think?  Vote below:

 - Really Bad
 - Really Really Really Bad
 - Worst Costume Design Ever

 ::)
Title: Re: Comic Book Thread
Post by: evenflow on October 19, 2007, 12:12 PM
I think i am hoping for the Punisher.


Not to change subject, but does anyone know why the Hulk is going red?
Title: Re: Comic Book Thread
Post by: Jeff on October 19, 2007, 12:32 PM
So they can sell "Red Hulk" action figures?

A red variant Hulk may not sell now, but put him in the book and BAM!  Instant sales!  :P
Title: Re: Comic Book Thread
Post by: JediJman on October 19, 2007, 02:08 PM
So they can sell "Red Hulk" action figures?

A red variant Hulk may not sell now, but put him in the book and BAM!  Instant sales!  :P

I'm sure that whatever they use to stop him or depower him turns him red, which as Jeff stated, is yet another marketing ploy to get you to buy the first issue when he turns red and offer a jumping on point to new readers and of course, eventually make a red action figure.  Looks like George's multi-colored clone idea is a continual hit.
Title: Re: Comic Book Thread
Post by: Brian on November 19, 2007, 10:03 AM
Some crazy rumors (http://www.comicbookresources.com/columns/?column=13) from DC are starting to pick up more steam now, and I've read this at a few sources.  Hit the linky for more (its the second topic down on that page currently), to hear about possible plans by DC for next year - which should have fans pretty upset I would think.  SPOILERS are present, if this turns out to be true.
Title: Re: Comic Book Thread
Post by: Brian on December 11, 2007, 04:02 PM
I was just curious, of those of you who read comics here, do you read any of the current Star Wars titles?  I've been reading Legacy from the beginning, and while I have enjoyed it, I'm thinking about dropping it as I need to cut back on my comic spending.  It seems to be a good book, but I know I look forward to the "superhero" books more each month, and if I had to make a choice, Legacy would probably have to go.  Sometimes I feel like I must think its my obligation as a Star Wars fan to read a comic or something :P.  Anyways, does anyone here read any of the current Star Wars comics, or do they not interest you at this point?
Title: Re: Comic Book Thread
Post by: Mikey D on February 7, 2008, 02:04 PM
In addition to the weekly pull list, I've been buying and reading TPBs in the last few months, mostly books that I've heard good things and decided to try out.  The big one was Y the Last Man.  Damn, what a great book.  I bought the first volume mainly to get free shipping on Amazon.  Finished it and immediately placed an order for the remaining 9 volumes.  Flew through those in about a day and a half.  Now I'm waiting patiently for the last volume (I think it comes out in June) to see how things with Yorick end up.  I've managed to stay spoiler free regarding the last six issues or so of the book and would like to keep it that way, so please provide suitable warning if you're going to comment on the book.

One of my local comic book/music/movie/action figure/pop culture store (Newbury Comics) had a 20% off sale on all TPBs this week.  I've heard great things about Geoff Jones' run on Green Lantern and the Sinestro Corps storyline, so I decided to start there.  Picked up Rebirth and the first volume of Green Lantern Corps.  So far, so good.  Did some researching and I should have bought GLC: Recharged  first, so I just placed an order for that book and volume two of GLC and the first three volumes of Green Lantern.  I'm not 100% sure, but I think that'll take me to right before the Sinestro Corps storyline starts.  Will grab the Sinestro Corps HCs and decide from there if I'll add GL to my monthly pull list.

Any other suggestions?  My monthly pulls are mostly DC - Batman, Teen Titans, JSA, JLA, Outsiders and the Countdown weekly.  The only two Marvel books I grab monthly are Daredevil and Ultimate Spider-man.  GIJoe and Savage Dragon are the only two non "Big 2" books that I read.  However, I do read Powers and 100 Bullets in their tpb format and enjoy them, so I have not qualms about trying a non-superhero book.

Title: Re: Comic Book Thread
Post by: JediJman on February 13, 2008, 12:52 AM
I would suggest picking up some of the SW comics if you're not already getting them.  The Vector multi-timeline crossover starts in KOTOR this month, so perfect jumping on point for those new the these books. 
Title: Re: Comic Book Thread
Post by: Mikey D on February 13, 2008, 08:12 AM
I recently dropped all the SW books I was pulling each month - Legacy, Dark Times and Rebellion.  I thought they sucked.  Never read KOTR, not really interested in that time period.

I loved the Clone Wars / Republic stuff, though.
Title: Re: Comic Book Thread
Post by: JediJman on February 14, 2008, 12:05 AM
I recently dropped all the SW books I was pulling each month - Legacy, Dark Times and Rebellion.  I thought they sucked.  Never read KOTR, not really interested in that time period.

I loved the Clone Wars / Republic stuff, though.

I was not initially interested in this time period either, but I gave the book a try and was hooked in the first few issues.  Very good storyline IMO - much better than some of the KOTOR mini-series books from a few years back.  The new crossover will go through all four monthly titles, which should make for a pretty amazing story, and it starts this month!
Title: Re: Comic Book Thread
Post by: Brian on March 27, 2008, 02:55 PM
Just thought I'd bump this thread up to see what everyone is reading these days.  It seems like there are more and more books I'd like to pick up all the time, even as I should be cutting back.  I guess if I didn't collect anything, it wouldn't be a big deal - but, oh well.  Here's what I'm reading right now:

Subscriptions/Pull List

Marvel
Ultimate Spider-Man
Amazing Spider-Man
Fantastic Four
New Avengers
Uncanny X-Men
Captain America
Mighty Avengers
Astonishing X-Men

DC
Detective Comics
Batman
Justice League of America
Action Comics

Other/Limited
G.I. Joe: America's Elite
Spider-Man: With Great Power
Secret Invasion (When it Starts)
Final Crisis (When it Starts)

Other than that, I pick up a few random titles here and there.  I grab All-Star Superman, just because its a fun read.  I've been checking out Star Wars: Rebellion after dropping Legacy, just to see some OT stories and see what its like.  I've also been checking out The Flash again, after dropping it for a bit.  I'm a fan of the character, but just haven't enjoyed the comic that much lately - but I'm picking up the latest arc to give it a try again.  I plan on picking up DC's Trinity starting in June, which features the Big 3.  I'm interested in a lot of the other DC characters (Flash, Nightwing, GL, GA, WW, etc.) as well, but can't afford them all, and figured JLA would cover most of them.  Oh, I also picked up the first issue of Mark Millar's Kick Ass, and will probably grab the next one as well.  Anyways, what is everyone else reading/enjoying at this point?
Title: Re: Comic Book Thread
Post by: JediJman on March 28, 2008, 12:17 AM
Here's what I'm reading:

 
 X  Avengers Classic
 X  Avengers: The Initiative (dropping this with issue #12 I think - kind of bored with it)
 X  Captain America (just started, not very impressed yet)
 X  Invincible Iron Man (New series, looks good)
 X  Iron Man: Director of SHIELD (Getting a little bored with this one - move the plot along already)
 X  Marvel Previews
 X  Mighty Avengers
 X  Ms. Marvel (Awesome book.  Funny, lots of action, great stories)
 X  New Avengers
 X  Secret Invasion (Can't wait to see who's actually a skrull!)
 X  Star Wars: Dark Times
 X  Star Wars: KOTOR
 X  Star Wars: Legacy
 X  Star Wars: Rebellion
 X  Thor (one of the best books I've read in a long time - highly recommend it)
 X  Transformers Spotlights & Ongoing Series (Think Mirage and Grimlock are the next ones to hit)
 X  X-Factor: Quick and the Dead (I have a soft spot for Quicksilver, so I'm giving this a shot)
 X  Young Avengers Presents (Really missed this team - happy to have them back even on a limited basis)
 

 
 
Title: Re: Comic Book Thread
Post by: Phrubruh on March 28, 2008, 10:19 AM
Here's a stupid question, where do you buy comic books? Do you subscribe to them?  I've done searches for comic book stores in my area and they are either out of business or just don't exist. It not like I'm in a rural area or anything. You would think they would be more plentiful in southern california.
Title: Re: Comic Book Thread
Post by: Brian on March 28, 2008, 10:27 AM
Quote
X  Secret Invasion (Can't wait to see who's actually a skrull!)

Speaking of Secret Invasion, Marvel has released an animated teaser (http://www.comicbookresources.com/news/newsitem.cgi?id=13506) for the event that is kind of spiffy.

As for where I get my books, its a combination of subscriptions and my local comic book store.  I used to live in an area without a comic book store, so I subscribed to a few (that list has since grown).  I've been subscribed to Amazing Spidey for years, and picked up other Marvel titles along the way.  I always had good luck with Marvel subscriptions - they are quite a bit cheaper, and the latest I've ever gotten a title is a week late (usually I get them a day or two early).  DC was a little slower (always two weeks late at least), but I think they "farm out" their home subscriptions.  I think there are direct subscription services these days that are probably a better option overall though (I think Jeff and others use services like these, and could give better advice there).  Otherwise, I hit our local comic book store for other titles that I try out, DC stuff, or limiteds.  I sometimes think about just using an online vendor though, and having them all shipped once a month or something - it might be easier.
Title: Re: Comic Book Thread
Post by: CaptainYoda on March 28, 2008, 11:08 AM
hey Phruby,

I either get my Comics at Amazing Comics in Long Beach. Huge store. Lots of good stuff. Or a little closer to home I go to Beach Ball Comics, at the corner of Beach Blvd and Ball Rd in Anaheim or Buena Park.  Whatever it is over there. There was Mile High that burned down like two years ago, and another store in Fullerton that went out of business.
Title: Re: Comic Book Thread
Post by: Phrubruh on March 28, 2008, 11:26 AM
So there is nothing south of Tustin or Santa Ana or Orange? What about Pomona or Chino or around those areas? There was one in Rancho Cucamonga but it isn't there anymore.
Title: Re: Comic Book Thread
Post by: JediJman on March 28, 2008, 12:52 PM
Here's a stupid question, where do you buy comic books? Do you subscribe to them?  I've done searches for comic book stores in my area and they are either out of business or just don't exist. It not like I'm in a rural area or anything. You would think they would be more plentiful in southern california.

I think subscription has taken away a lot of the retail business.  In the Midwest, there are a handful of toy/comic type stores in bigger cities.  If you're not an avid reader, Ebay is actually not a bad place to find deals on older stuff.

I personally used to shop at a local store until December when they took away their discount.  I now use a subscription service called SciFi Genre - they offer great discounts, cover selection, super cheap shipping, AND you get a free bag and board with each book.  Pretty awesome deal.  I buy at least ten regular titles, which gives me a 20% discount on everything I buy.  They have carry a limited assortment of toys, which are also discount priced if you're a subscriber.   ;)

Title: Re: Comic Book Thread
Post by: CaptainYoda on March 28, 2008, 02:36 PM
So there is nothing south of Tustin or Santa Ana or Orange? What about Pomona or Chino or around those areas? There was one in Rancho Cucamonga but it isn't there anymore.

I dont know. There used to be one on Chapman down by the Orange Circle, but I think that one closed years ago.
Title: Re: Comic Book Thread
Post by: Brian on April 30, 2008, 09:07 AM
Sounds like the New York Daily News spoiled another big comic book happening today, for those that read it.  Newsarama (http://forum.newsarama.com/showthread.php?t=155445) has the details of the big news, but of course, SPOILERS are present (DC related).
Title: Re: Comic Book Thread
Post by: Jeff on April 30, 2008, 09:19 AM
 :o :o :o

Man, I can't wait to read it...   ;D
Title: Re: Comic Book Thread
Post by: Brian on September 5, 2008, 03:46 PM
Well, its been a few months, so I just thought I'd bump this thread up to see what everyone is reading/enjoying.  I'm reading more books than ever right now I think, so I'm looking at cutting the list down quite a bit.  I stay pretty standard with my Marvel books, but I've been picking up more and more DC, so that starts to add up a bit.  Just like collecting, need to get the budget down here - so I likely need to make some cuts.  Overall though, it seems like a lot of good stuff to read out there right now.

Marvel
Amazing Spider-Man
Ultimate Spider-Man
Uncanny X-Men
New Avengers
Mighty Avengers
Fantastic Four
Captain America
Invincible Iron Man
Secret Invasion
Ultimate Origins

DC
Batman
Nightwing
Detective Comics
Action Comics
Justice League of America
Trinity
Final Crisis

Trying Out/Pick Up Occasionally: The Flash, Titans, Astonishing X-Men, Wolverine, Indiana Jones,  upcoming Clone Wars

Like I said, way too many titles, but a handful of them (Marvel ones) I've been subscribed to for awhile so its not quite as expensive.  I'm on the fence with DC's Trinity, since its a bigger financial commitment each month - and so far, to me, its just been "ok".
Title: Re: Comic Book Thread
Post by: Ben on September 6, 2008, 01:24 AM
Here's what I read these days:

Buffy the Vampire Slayer: Season 8
Young Liars
The Sword
Fables
The Punisher MAX
Punisher War Journal
Star Wars Legacy
Star Wars Rebellion
various Transformers titles

I just started reading Young Liars and The Sword, and while The Sword is pretty lame from a storytelling perspective, the art is great. Young Liars is out there, and I'm loving it. Psychopaths, sociopaths, and transgendered drug addicts- what's not to love?
Title: Re: Comic Book Thread
Post by: JediJman on September 6, 2008, 11:08 AM
Pretty similar interests on the Marvel side...

Marvel
Mighty Avengers
New Avengers
Avengers: The Initiative
Ms. Marvel
Invincible Iron Man
Iron Man Director of Sheild
Avengers vs. Defenders (LS)
Secret Invasion (LS)
Thor
Thor: Secret Invasion (LS)
Secret Invasion: Runaways/Young Avengers
Captain America (Thinking of dropping this title.  I miss the real Cap)
Marvel Preiviews (Keeps me in touch with the rest of the Marvel U for just $.99)

Dark Horse:
Star Wars Rebellion
Star Wars Legacy
Star Wars Dark Times
Star Wars KOTOR
Transformers Spotlight
Transformers All Hail Megatron

Secret Invasion has been pretty good so far, but hard to follow chronology across multiple books.
Title: Re: Comic Book Thread
Post by: Brian on September 19, 2008, 03:30 PM
Just wanted to pass along this feature (http://www.newsarama.com/comics/090819-FridayFlashback.html) over at Newsarama, which is a Friday Flashback focusing on Secret Wars.  I remember this comic and toyline being one of the main things that got me to expand beyond Spider-Man (and Batman) comics at the time, and get into the Marvel Universe as a whole.  Its kind of a nice trip down memory lane of one of the first major line-wide "events" that have become yearly these days.
Title: Re: Comic Book Thread
Post by: JediJman on September 20, 2008, 12:10 AM
Just wanted to pass along this feature (http://www.newsarama.com/comics/090819-FridayFlashback.html) over at Newsarama, which is a Friday Flashback focusing on Secret Wars.  I remember this comic and toyline being one of the main things that got me to expand beyond Spider-Man (and Batman) comics at the time, and get into the Marvel Universe as a whole.  Its kind of a nice trip down memory lane of one of the first major line-wide "events" that have become yearly these days.

That's funny.  I was a big Avengers fan and it was the Secret Wars event that got me hooked on Spiderman comics.  I wanted to see what happened with that black suit!
Title: Re: Comic Book Thread
Post by: Brian on October 8, 2008, 09:49 AM
Just as a warning for those who are interested, it appears that Action Comics #870 (released today) is being spoiled by the NY Daily News (and possibly other media outlets), so you might want to steer clear of those until you get your copy.  I don't know if anyone else here is reading this, but I've really been enjoying this comic since Johns took it over.  Anyways, just a heads up.
Title: Re: Comic Book Thread
Post by: BillCable on October 8, 2008, 10:28 AM
Spoiler space...

I'm just shocked to hear his parents were both alive again...
Title: Re: Comic Book Thread
Post by: Mikey D on October 8, 2008, 10:33 AM
I don't read Action Comics so I went over and read the NY Daily News article.  It'll be interesting to see what the reprecussions are from this event.  It may seem like a somewhat minor event to us, but it'll impact Supes for years.
Title: Re: Comic Book Thread
Post by: Brian on October 8, 2008, 01:03 PM
On the same note, also steer clear of CNN.com, since they put the spoiler right in the story headline.  Its nothing that I hadn't heard rumored previously, but it still stinks for those who are avoiding spoilers.
Title: Re: Comic Book Thread
Post by: Mikey D on October 30, 2008, 09:19 AM
Spoiler space for Final Crisis - Rage of the Red Lanterns one shot.































Holy ****, what an awesome book.  Green Lanterns, Sinestro Corps and Red Lanterns beating the piss out of each other (well, mostly Red Lanterns decimating the Sinestro Corps).  A ******* kitty cat Red Lantern?  That's all kinds of crazy.  Plus the first Blue Lantern appearance and the founding of the Orange Lanterns power source by the Controllers.  Great, great stuff.  And I only imagine Johns and crew are just getting started.
Title: Re: Comic Book Thread
Post by: Brian on October 31, 2008, 01:01 PM
I was picking up some GL during the Sinestro Corps War run, but had to stop in the middle of that to cut the budget back a bit.  I've been keeping up with bits and pieces through reviews and online chatter, but I haven't picked up an issue for quite some time now.  Everything I've heard makes it sound like this series continues to be amazing, and I'm really tempting to get back into things now.  I suppose I could jump in with this Red Lantern special (and the upcoming #36?), but I'm thinking I'll order the Sinestro Corps hardcovers as well to read through that whole thing.  Is the Origins arc essential reading to catch up as well?  I thought there was some stuff with Atrocitus in there from what I understand, but I was just curious.

I recently streamlined my pull at our local shop (dropping Trinity got rid of four books, so that was helpful - it was boring to me I guess), so I might be able to add another series to the list now.  Its funny, I've always been more of a Marvel person - but the DC titles are starting to catch up a bit.  Between Batman (and Detective), Action Comics, Nightwing, JLA, and possibly now GL and the upcoming Flash, there's a lot of good stuff out there.  I've really been enjoying Action Comics in particular lately, and highly recommend that book as well - best Superman (outside of All-Star) that I've read in a long time.

On the Marvel side of things, I'm still enjoying those books as well.  Aside from the whole One More Day changes, I think Amazing Spidey has been pretty good lately.  The New Ways to Die arc was entertaining, and it was nice to see the Goblin, Eddie Brock, etc. back in the fold.  This week's issue featuring Hammerhead is really fun as well, and I'm excited for where its going.  Captain America continues to be great as well, and I've been enjoying Invincible Iron Man as well.  Personally, I like Secret Invasion well enough, but I always like when all the heroes are together like that - brings me back to Secret Wars :).  I've been reading the Avengers books too, and those are pretty solid.  I'm looking forward to this whole "Dark Reign" thing coming up. Ultimate Spidey is consistently good too.  Anyways, just really enjoying comics right now, its hard to know where to draw the line with the subscriptions/pull list.
Title: Re: Comic Book Thread
Post by: Brian on November 4, 2008, 04:37 PM
I think there are some rumors of different titles/characters/etc. relaunching post-RIP, but if not, as a Nightwing fan I'm not too crazy about this announcement (http://www.newsarama.com/comics/110804-GothamCancellations.html) at Newsarama about the cancellations of Nightwing, Robin, and Birds of Prey come February.  Like I said, this may be (and likely is) RIP related, but it will be interesting to see where these books/characters are headed after this.
Title: Re: Comic Book Thread
Post by: Jeff on November 4, 2008, 09:49 PM
The cancellations have been rumored since around SDCC, interesting to see them finally pan out.

The rumor mill back then was saying that Robin would be cancelled and would be replaced with Red Robin while Nightwing would be replaced by a new Batman and Robin title.  No idea if that's still the plan, or what it means for the characters post-RIP, but I'm hoping they don't severely screw things up. :-\
Title: Re: Comic Book Thread
Post by: Brian on November 5, 2008, 09:42 AM
The cancellations have been rumored since around SDCC, interesting to see them finally pan out.

The rumor mill back then was saying that Robin would be cancelled and would be replaced with Red Robin while Nightwing would be replaced by a new Batman and Robin title.  No idea if that's still the plan, or what it means for the characters post-RIP, but I'm hoping they don't severely screw things up. :-\


I've heard/read those same rumors Jeff, it will be interesting to see how/if those pan out.  I've seen some people on forums speculating it would lead to some sort of "Batman Family" type title too, that would encompass all of these characters.  Obviously, it all hinges on the finale of RIP, so we'll have to wait and see.  I've really been enjoying Nightwing lately, and Dick Grayson has always been one of my favorite characters in comics, so I hope he's not gone (or severely changed) alongside these book cancellations/changes.  I'm sure something has to be cooking, because these books (NW in particular) seemed to have pretty decent sales to have them all cancelled all of a sudden.  Its going to be a whole new Bat-verse here in a few months the way it seems.
Title: Re: Comic Book Thread
Post by: BillCable on November 28, 2008, 10:40 AM
Careful of a huge spoiler on the front page of Drudge today, dealing with the Batman R.I.P. storyline.
Title: Re: Comic Book Thread
Post by: Sprry75 on November 28, 2008, 10:46 AM
Careful of a huge spoiler on the front page of Drudge today, dealing with the Batman R.I.P. storyline.

Ghey.
Title: Re: Comic Book Thread
Post by: Brian on March 20, 2009, 12:45 PM
A quick question for those of you have (or are currently) buying single-issue comics (weekly comics) on a consistent basis?  Do you hold onto all the individual issues that you pick up each week/month, do you wait for trades for the most part, do you buy the trade and then get rid of single issues?  To be honest, I never really considered getting rid of any comics (and don't know that I would), but I was listening to the IGN Comics podcast this week and someone asked that question and it got me to thinking about the topic.  I'm fine for now, but even picking up 4-5 comics a week will continue to add up over the months/years, and I don't know if we'll have the room to store an entire comics shop in our house :).  Anyways, just curious if anyone here has ever gotten rid of their single issues - or do you hang onto them all?  I guess this pertains more to more recent issues, since many times the older ones may have more nostalgic (or monetary) value.
Title: Re: Comic Book Thread
Post by: BillCable on March 20, 2009, 01:07 PM
I pick up single issues and box them.  I actually want to go through my 80s/90s back-issues and see if any are worth selling.  I'm guessing no.  A friend of mine who owned a comic book shop used to buy back issues by weight, something like $.25 per pound.  He'd pay out $5 or $6 for a long-box.  And that was the best price any dealer paid in town.

TPBs are a good way to go.  You save a little money that way.  But a lot of books never end up in TBP form.

I figure I'm paying for the enjoyment, not making an investment.  Once I'm done they're effectively worthless.  I won't be recycling them any time soon, but I'm guessing my kids will when I'm gone.
Title: Re: Comic Book Thread
Post by: Brian on March 20, 2009, 01:12 PM
I pick up single issues and box them.  I actually want to go through my 80s/90s back-issues and see if any are worth selling.  I'm guessing no.  A friend of mine who owned a comic book shop used to buy back issues by weight, something like $.25 per pound.  He'd pay out $5 or $6 for a long-box.  And that was the best price any dealer paid in town.

TPBs are a good way to go.  You save a little money that way.  But a lot of books never end up in TBP form.

I figure I'm paying for the enjoyment, not making an investment.  Once I'm done they're effectively worthless.  I won't be recycling them any time soon, but I'm guessing my kids will when I'm gone.

I agree totally, I'm paying for the enjoyment as well - I don't look at my comics (or action figures for that matter) as an investment at all.  I can just see this heading the same way some people (myself included) have run into in collecting Star Wars - you do it for along enough time, you start running out of room for everything.  I don't know that I'd ever get rid of any comics either, most likely not, but I can see storage space becoming an issue in the future.
Title: Re: Comic Book Thread
Post by: efranks on March 20, 2009, 02:22 PM
For the last couple of years the only current comic I've been buying in the SW Legacy series and I've been buying the single issues.  I treat it as part of my overall collection.  I want to start the new GI Joe series but haven't yet, I'll probably buy those as singles also.

I do buy older SW series in TPB form where available but have been buying cheap single issues of GI Joe.  I don't plan on switching to TPB for the Joe series.

My older books that I still have from the early to mid '90s are probably worth less than the paper they're printed on now, but I don't have any plans to get rid of them.  There might be one or two in there somewhere that have value to them but I'm just thinking that some day I'll get a chance to read them again or at least leaf through them.  Some day I'll probably get rid of them by just recycling them.

   E...
Title: Re: Comic Book Thread
Post by: Jim on March 20, 2009, 11:05 PM
So are there any hardcore collectors on this board?  Curious if anyone collects older titles or just current. I just finished my personal goal of collecting every major Marvel Title from 1970-1990 (in order with no missing issues) and it was a great feeling to finish off.  For those thinking of getting rid of titles, think twice.  I unfortuneately traded and gave away a ton of issues in the 80's that came back to haunt me.  Notably the Miller Daredevil titles which I had to reaquire. Simply from the Nostalgic POV  I could not see myself getting rid of my books. Although the books published since 1990 have not interested me either in storylines or art and thats why I gave it up.
Title: Re: Comic Book Thread
Post by: Brian on June 15, 2009, 11:59 AM
Some may have already seen this (spoilers):

Reborn (http://marvel.com/news/comicstories.8368.Reborn_Revealed)
Title: Re: Comic Book Thread
Post by: JediJman on June 15, 2009, 01:58 PM
Some may have already seen this (spoilers):

Reborn (http://comics.ign.com/articles/994/994625p1.html)

Thanks for posting this.  I figured as much and already subscribed, but nice to have some confirmation.  I think both covers look a little lame - I expected something bigger for this kind of news.  :P
Title: Re: Comic Book Thread
Post by: Scott on June 15, 2009, 03:11 PM
Holy crap is that etarded.  Much like when they killed Hawkeye I give Marvel a big FU.  These are humans not super humans...any "resurrection" is just super lame beyond all belief.  I'm glad I don't read comics any more and probably never will again.  Its become a sad marketing tool ever since DC "killed" Superman...in fact how many former heavy hitter Avengers are now currently "dead" and have been killed over the last 4 years?  Hawkeye, Thor, Vision, Ant-Man to name a few...again...lame
My feelings haven't changed in two years...it is still super lame ::)
Title: Re: Comic Book Thread
Post by: JediJman on June 16, 2009, 12:02 AM
Holy crap is that etarded.  Much like when they killed Hawkeye I give Marvel a big FU.  These are humans not super humans...any "resurrection" is just super lame beyond all belief.  I'm glad I don't read comics any more and probably never will again.  Its become a sad marketing tool ever since DC "killed" Superman...in fact how many former heavy hitter Avengers are now currently "dead" and have been killed over the last 4 years?  Hawkeye, Thor, Vision, Ant-Man to name a few...again...lame
My feelings haven't changed in two years...it is still super lame ::)

Here's the track record for Avengers dead off the top of my head:


Hawkeye - died, resurrected by House of M/Scarlet Witch
Thor - died, resurrected
Mockingbird - died, found out it was actually a Skrull imposter who died, so she's back
Captain America - died post WWII, resurrected to join the Avengers, died again, about to be resurrected
Vision  - died, brought back with future Kang tech, but mapped to future Kang's brain waves (Simon Williams brain patterns gone)
Ant Man (Scott Lang) - still dead (the new ant-man is an ex SHEILD agent)
Black Goliath - still dead
Jack of Hearts - still dead
Swordsman - still dead

I'd score that as 5 dead and 4 resurrected including Cap now (Vision is technically someone new with a dead guy's powers, just like Ant-Man).  I was pissed when Hawkeye died and actually wrote Marvel a couple of times, so I'm glad they brought him back.  I never really thought Thor or Cap would stay dead.  None of the Marvel "Gods" really ever die to they?  And Cap - his inevitable "resurrection" was all anyone would talk about after issue #25 came out.  I like the Mockingbird reveal too and thought that was a neat way to bring back a little happiness and a new dynamic to Hawkeye, who otherwise should have been crushed losing his wife, cap, and his own life for a while. 

Is it a marketing ploy?  Sure, but I think Marvel's made some good stories out of these "deaths" rather than just bringing heroes back arbitrarily like they do the bad guys.  This really isn't anything new either - when they first brought back Captain America in Avengers #4, they were reviving the dead.  Comics are always recycling characters and usually without the big picture story to back it up.  Cripes look at Batman - can anyone stay locked in Arkham for longer than a week? 

As for Cap, it was inevitable, so I'm glad it's finally here.  Hopefully they use Cap to reverse all the negative vibes in the Marvel universe the last 5 or so years (Avengers disassembled, House of M, Stamford and the New Warriors blown up, Civil War, Skrull Invasion, Iron Man ousted, SHIELD dismantled, Green Goblin replaces all the heroes with bad guys...).  I can't remember the last time I read a feel good Marvel comic.  Cap's an icon and it will be great to have him back.  He's needed as a moral compass for the Marvel heroes and this will hopefully get Iron Man, who can't seem to get over Cap's death, back on track again.
Title: Re: Comic Book Thread
Post by: Brian on July 2, 2009, 11:34 AM
So, what has everyone been reading these days?  I was just going through and re-organizing some comics into long/short boxes this week, and started to realize how much room these monthlies/weeklies start to take up.  I've been trying to streamline my pull list/subscriptions lately, but now I'm starting to wonder if I shouldn't try to switch to trades for more titles - or pass them altogether.  I'm really enjoying a lot of comics lately, but - much like collecting - they are starting to take up more room in our house than they should.

Anyways, here's some of what I've been reading right now:

Marvel
Subscribed/Pulled: Amazing Spider-Man, Uncanny X-Men, New Avengers, Fantastic Four, Captain America, Invincible Iron Man
Checking Out: Ultimate Spider-Man (what's left), Wolverine: Weapon X, Daredevil, Mighty Avengers, War of Kings MiniSeries

DC
Pulled: Batman, Batman and Robin, Green Lantern, Superman: World of New Krypton, Flash: Rebirth, and upcoming Blackest Night
Checking Out: Batman: Streets of Gotham, Gotham City Sirens

Other - G.I. Joe (Main Series)

I was going to comment individually, but thought that might get a little lengthy.  Some general thoughts - aside from the whole BND controversy, I think Amazing Spider-Man has been the best it has been in a long, long time.  I've really been enjoying it every week, and it has been especially good this year.  I'm sort of giving quite a few of the Batman books a chance right now, but Batman/Batman and Robin are the constants for me.  I'm not sure about the Damian character overall yet, but I do like there is a title called "Batman and Robin" - hopefully it sticks around if/when (when) Bruce returns.  Otherwise, looking forward most to the Blackest Night stuff - hopefully it is as good as it looks so far.  I recently dropped the Justice League comic, because I was bored to tears with the team without having the "big guns" involved.  I might pick it up again later this year when James Robinson takes over, if we start seeing Batman/Superman/WW/Flash/GL together again.  I know there are different opinions on it, but to me that is the Justice League I want to read about.

I'm also not reading a Star Wars comic for the first time in awhile.  I thought about checking out Invasion, but we'll see.  I've also read Ultimate Spidey pretty much from the beginning, but I'm wondering if I'll continue on with the "Ultimate Comics" restart or not.  If anything, it might just be a TPB thing.  Overall though, lots of good reads out there these days - but I'm still trying to decide what to cut, if anything.  Like I said, it is just a lot of space taken up by the individual issues at this point.  Has anyone else here switched to trades, or kind of a mix of both?
Title: Re: Comic Book Thread
Post by: efranks on July 2, 2009, 02:33 PM
The only steady comic I've been reading over the last few years ins Star Wars: Legacy.  I've been buying that monthly.  Over the last couple of years now I have been going back and picking up trades of older SW series like the X-Wing series, Tales, and any one shots and trades of short-run series that were out.

This year at WW Philly I picked up some trades for Knights of the Old Republic (first 3 volumes) on the cheap.  If they're good I'll probably pick up 4 through whatever the current trade is but I don't think I'll get into the single issues.

I do want to start picking up the new IDW GI Joe books though.  I have a couple but need to pick up the other back issues I'm missing.  Those I plan on buying on a monthly basis when I get caught up.

Other than Legacy and the Joe comics, anything else I read I'll wait for the TPB.  There are times I miss reading some of the superhero comics but have never gotten to the point where I felt like it would be the right time to jump back in on a monthly title, so I've stayed away for the most part.

Right now, I just started reading Star Wars Tales volume 1 and I think I have the full set of the TPBs now.  I bought 4 of them in Philly and had a couple from previous years.  So that should be some good reading for a couple weeks.

   E...
Title: Re: Comic Book Thread
Post by: Darby on July 2, 2009, 11:51 PM
My regulars:

Buffy The Vampire Slayer Season 8, Fables, House of Mystery

Checking Out:

Batman & Robin, Gotham City Sirens, Star Wars: Invasion (all today!)

I read Astonishing X-Men when Joss wrote it, but I can't make heads or tails of X-comics nowadays.  I used to love Ultimate Spidey, but the charm wore off somewhere.  Most superhero comics don't do it for me anymore.
Title: Re: Comic Book Thread
Post by: Brian on July 3, 2009, 12:46 PM
Nice interview with Geoff Johns regarding all things GL and Blackest Night is up over at Newsarama (http://www.newsarama.com/comics/070903-Geoff-BN.html) - plenty of Star Wars references too :).

On a side note, your guys' pull lists look much more manageable - I must be the only one crazy enough to be 10+ comics a month :).
Title: Re: Comic Book Thread
Post by: Mikey D on July 3, 2009, 06:25 PM

On a side note, your guys' pull lists look much more manageable - I must be the only one crazy enough to be 10+ comics a month :).

Nope.

Daredevil
Ultimate Spider-man
JSA
JLA
Teen Titans
Green Lantern
Green Lantern Corps
Batman and Robin
Batman
Detective Comics
Red Robin
Gotham City Sirens
Steets of Gotham
Secret Six
Savage Dragon

And that doesn't count any limited series - Capt. American Reborn, Flash Rebirth', JL:Cry for Justice, etc.  I'll also be grabbing all the Blackest Night series.  And that also doesn't include the books I read in TPB form - 100 Bullets, The Boys, Powers and what ever else looks interesting.

Yeah, I spend way too much on comics.
Title: Re: Comic Book Thread
Post by: Mikey D on July 16, 2009, 08:53 AM
So Blackest Night officially started yesterday and holy ****, what a doozy of a first issue (so much so that I read it twice).  I won't spoil anything specifically, but Johns and team certainly didn't waste any time bringing the zombies back and jumped right into the action.  Add to that the killing off of two fairly major characters, one of them in a pretty vicious manner that I would never expect said character to endure (I can't wait to see their zombie forms) and BN is off to a great start.
Title: Re: Comic Book Thread
Post by: Jeff on July 16, 2009, 11:12 AM
So Blackest Night officially started yesterday and holy ****, what a doozy of a first issue (so much so that I read it twice). 

These are the weeks that I HATE having mail-order comics.  It's going to be soooooooo hard to avoid the spoilers until my comics get here...  :-\
Title: Re: Comic Book Thread
Post by: evenflow on July 16, 2009, 11:18 AM
Whatever happened with the Red Hulk storyline. Do we know who it is yet?
Title: Re: Comic Book Thread
Post by: Brian on July 16, 2009, 11:55 AM
So Blackest Night officially started yesterday and holy ****, what a doozy of a first issue (so much so that I read it twice).  I won't spoil anything specifically, but Johns and team certainly didn't waste any time bringing the zombies back and jumped right into the action.  Add to that the killing off of two fairly major characters, one of them in a pretty vicious manner that I would never expect said character to endure (I can't wait to see their zombie forms) and BN is off to a great start.

I picked up my books yesterday, and this was the first one I read as well.  Like you said Mikey, a doozy of a first issue - I'm already looking forward to the next one.
Title: Re: Comic Book Thread
Post by: Brian on September 9, 2009, 08:27 PM
Maybe not quite as big news as the Disney/Marvel stuff last week, but it looks like DC is making a few changes as well:

DC Entertainment (http://www.newsarama.com/comics/090909-DC-Restructuring.html)

Again, hopefully it won't mean any changes to the comics themselves, but if it means that DC/WB can get some more DC heroes on the big screen - that sounds good to me.
Title: Re: Comic Book Thread
Post by: Brian on September 21, 2009, 06:21 PM
So who here has been reading "Blackest Night"?  I have to say, I've always been a pretty big fan of Geoff Johns anyways, but this has to be my favorite "event" comic in a long time.  The tie-ins (at least the ones I've checked out) have been pretty entertaining too.  Definitely look forward to that each month.  I'm actually enjoying comics in general (from both Marvel and DC) quite a bit lately, lots of good stuff out there.  I've been getting more into the DC stuff over the past year in particular, and the main Marvel books I follow have been great too.  I know many were turned off by the whole "One More Day" think in Amazing Spider-Man, but I have to say that right now (especially this year) is the best that book has been in a long time - at least in my opinion.

Anyways, quick question:  is anyone here reading Red Robin?  I've been picking up quite a few (most) of the Batman titles since the whole "Reborn" thing started, but that is one I haven't gotten a chance to check out yet.  I'm changing up my pull list, and was wondering if it was worth adding?  I'm not sure what to think of the name/costume change, but I always enjoyed Tim Drake so I thought about checking it out.  Just wondering if anyone here has any opinions.  I've enjoyed most of the other bat-books lately.  Dick Grayson is one of my favorite characters, and it is nice to see him in the spotlight (if only temporarily).  I just hope he doesn't get killed off when Bruce returns.
Title: Re: Comic Book Thread
Post by: Jeff on February 16, 2010, 01:34 PM
One of my highlights of Toy Fair 2010?  Meeting Geoff Johns at the Mattel Preview Event.   8)

He was just standing there (badge turned around so you couldn't see his name), mixed in with the rest of us sheep, oogling the new Mattel DC stuff.  I introduced myself and tried not to go all fanboy on him.

We talked GL, Blackest Night, and Brightest Day for a minute or two and then I retreated and let him have the rest of his night back.  I could have spent hours chatting with him, but didn't want to derail his time and "out" him to others who'd bug him.  :)
Title: Re: Comic Book Thread
Post by: Brian on February 16, 2010, 02:21 PM
One of my highlights of Toy Fair 2010?  Meeting Geoff Johns at the Mattel Preview Event.   8)

He was just standing there (badge turned around so you couldn't see his name), mixed in with the rest of us sheep, oogling the new Mattel DC stuff.  I introduced myself and tried not to go all fanboy on him.

We talked GL, Blackest Night, and Brightest Day for a minute or two and then I retreated and let him have the rest of his night back.  I could have spent hours chatting with him, but didn't want to derail his time and "out" him to others who'd bug him.  :)


Wow, that is really cool Jeff (especially for a huge GL fan like you).  I think he's probably the best writer in comics today.  I've been enjoying the heck out of his Green Lantern, Blackest Night, and Superman: Secret Origins stuff...and looking forward to his new run on the Flash and the upcoming "Earth One Batman" graphic novel(s).

Speaking of celebrities at Toy Fair, I saw some pics (I believe at SuperHeroHype) that Robert Downey Jr. was there taking pics with the Iron Man 2 toys as well (they had one with an action figure, and one with the role play helmet).
Title: Re: Comic Book Thread
Post by: Brian on February 18, 2010, 10:31 AM
Speaking of Geoff Johns, he was involved in a fairly significant announcement from DC Entertainment today:

Didio, Jim Lee Named Co-Publishers, Johns Named Chief Creative Officer of DC Entertainment (http://www.newsarama.com/comics/DC-Entertainment-Changes-100218.html)
Title: Re: Comic Book Thread
Post by: DSJ™ on February 25, 2010, 03:17 AM
I saw this posted on the otheR site & thoight you guys would be interested.

It’s a Bird…It’s a Plane…It’s the First Million Dollar Comic Book! (http://www.comicconnect.com/)
Title: Re: Comic Book Thread
Post by: JediJman on February 25, 2010, 08:27 AM
Ridiculous.  The bidder could easily have gotten that for around $950,000.
Title: Re: Comics
Post by: evenflow on February 27, 2010, 01:16 PM
Sadly I have not been reading Blackest Night, although I have been getting some of the figures to go with DCUC. I just saw that DC Direct added a White Lantern ring to the ring set, any one have info on the White Lanterns?
Title: Re: Comics
Post by: JediJman on February 27, 2010, 01:42 PM
Sadly I have not been reading Blackest Night, although I have been getting some of the figures to go with DCUC. I just saw that DC Direct added a White Lantern ring to the ring set, any one have info on the White Lanterns?

Just do a search on google for "Whitest Day" to get up to speed on the storyline.   ;)
Title: Re: Comics
Post by: Mikey D on February 28, 2010, 09:11 AM

Just do a search on google for "Whitest Day" to get up to speed on the storyline.   ;)

Brightest Day, actually.

The first White Lantern just appeared last week in Blackest Night #7.  I won't spoil who it is in case anyone hasn't read the issue yet, but he/she/it is a pretty important character (and one who's been hinted at saving the universe throughout John's run since Rebirth).
Title: Re: Comic Book Thread
Post by: Brian on June 24, 2010, 12:36 PM
It seems like a lot of the news lately in the comic book world has surrounded the slow move to digital (http://www.newsarama.com/comics/dc-comics-ipad-iphone-app-100623.html).  Marvel and DC (as well as some smaller publishers) have all announced their plans, and it seems like things might be moving more and more this way in the future.  I was curious, for the comic book readers here, when the time comes where all the titles are available (and available the same date or roughly the same as the print versions) would you switch to digital for your comic reading?

Personally, I don't have an iPad or any of those fancy things right now (outside of a computer), so I'm not sure how easy the reading is for any of the various apps from Marvel or DC.  That being said, I think if everything was available (and easy to read) I would probably switch to digital for the majority of what I read.  My love will always be there for the "hard copies", but I just don't have the room to store all of these (much like toys/collectibles), and I can see already that it is going to be a problem for me in the future.  I think I'd always continue on with paper copies of things like Amazing Spider-Man, and possibly a few others (maybe like five favorites or something), but I could see switching most of the rest to digital only.  It would just ease things like storage, and possibly be a bit cheaper, and would likely make my wife happier not having all these long boxes sitting around in the closet.
Title: Re: Comic Book Thread
Post by: BillCable on June 24, 2010, 02:00 PM
Depends on the price.  If they're $3.99 for print and $.99 for a kindle/nook thing download, then I'd probably switch.  If the download is still $3.99 then no way.
Title: Re: Comic Book Thread
Post by: efranks on June 24, 2010, 03:12 PM
Depends on the price.  If they're $3.99 for print and $.99 for a kindle/nook thing download, then I'd probably switch.  If the download is still $3.99 then no way.

Agree.  If the books were digital and affordable, there's the possibility that I'd read more comics than I do.  Part of the reason I don't read more is the price and part is that my LCS is run by a guy that's kind of a dick, and I hate going there.  If I could just download and read, I'd be happy.

   E...
Title: Re: Comic Book Thread
Post by: Greedo The Green Menace on June 24, 2010, 10:21 PM
Hmm, I don't think I'd be keen on the idea myself. I like to have something tangible, i dunno why, it just feels different holding it in you're hands as opposed to looking at it on screen.
Title: Re: Comic Book Thread
Post by: Brian on June 25, 2010, 11:01 AM
Yeah, the price would be the biggest issue for me too.  If it was cheaper, especially if it was a dollar or more cheaper, it would make it more appealing.  I can understand wanting something more tangible too, I'm more that way as well, but like I said the whole issue of storage of all these comics is becoming more of an issue for me personally.  When I already have a room full of "toys", adding comic book boxes to the mix doesn't sweeten the deal for the Mrs.  Like I said, if it was affordable, I'd like make the switch for some (if I had the proper tech for it), and stick to print copies for some of my favorites (Spidey, Batman, GL, X-Men, etc.)
Title: Re: Comic Book Thread
Post by: efranks on June 25, 2010, 01:34 PM
I like to have something tangible...

I usually do also.  I prefer to read a book or magazine for that type of reading.  But I prefer to read my news online rather than a paper.  Comics, if was something I was interested in also collecting, like the GI Joe or few SW comics I read, I'd still buy them at the LCS.  But there are several other comics that I'd be interested in reading that I have no interest in owning hard copies of.

Those, I'd read on dedicated reader device, iPad or even a regular computer if the price was right.

   E...
Title: Re: Comic Book Thread
Post by: BillCable on June 30, 2010, 07:37 AM
So yeah... they decided to ruin Wonder Woman. (http://www.examiner.com/x-19312-Columbus-Comic-Books-Examiner~y2010m6d29-Wonder-Woman-Gets-Radically-Redesigned-Costume-and-Origin)

Idiocy.

Here's her new costume:

(http://image3.examiner.com/images/blog/replicate/EXID19312/images/resized_Wonder_Woman_Jim_Lee.jpg)

It's just mind-blowing how moronic conic execs can be.
Title: Re: Comic Book Thread
Post by: efranks on June 30, 2010, 09:42 AM
Yeah, that seems kind of generic and boring.  And why are they screwing with her origin anyway?

   E...
Title: Re: Comic Book Thread
Post by: Jeff on June 30, 2010, 09:48 AM
Yeah, that seems kind of generic and boring.  

It looks like she took one of Donna Troy's suits and one of Rogue's jackets and slapped them together.  So now, instead of looking like Wonder Woman, she looks like any 90s Jim Lee creation.  Great.   ::)


And why are they screwing with her origin anyway?

Don't they mess with her origin every ten years or so?  She seems to be constantly rebooted - she was made from clay, she was moratal, she died, she was a god, she was a mortal, she was born from clay, etc.   ::)
Title: Re: Comic Book Thread
Post by: BillCable on June 30, 2010, 10:04 AM
I guess they're trying to drum up sales.  They must think a generic, "modern" crime fighter will have appeal to... somebody.  I can see running out of ideas for the original Wonder Woman, and a need to change things up.  But this?  Pretty awful execution, IMO.

"Oooo... she punches people and leaves a welt shaped like a W on them... that's AWESOME!!!!"
Title: Re: Comic Book Thread
Post by: EdSolo on June 30, 2010, 10:14 AM
Quite lame...especially with all the "women" asking how she fights in the old costume, etc.  I sure bet that "women" are the ones buying up comic books.
Title: Re: Comic Book Thread
Post by: Jeff on June 30, 2010, 10:15 AM
"Oooo... she punches people and leaves a welt shaped like a W on them... that's AWESOME!!!!"

The worst part is that was totally intentional...  ::)

From the DC blog (http://dcu.blog.dccomics.com/2010/06/29/unveiling-wonder-woman%e2%80%99s-new-costume-direction/): "The bracelets are still there, but made more colorful, tied on the inside and over the hand, with a script W on each of them that form WW when she holds them side by side…and if you get hit by one of them, it leaves a W mark. This is a Wonder Woman who signs her work…letting her enemies know that she’s getting closer."

Good Grief.  She forms the WW when she holds her fists side-by-side?  Is she trying out for the WWE or a T-Pain video next?   ::)  ::)
Title: Re: Comic Book Thread
Post by: Brian on July 1, 2010, 02:20 PM
"Oooo... she punches people and leaves a welt shaped like a W on them... that's AWESOME!!!!"

The worst part is that was totally intentional...  ::)

From the DC blog (http://dcu.blog.dccomics.com/2010/06/29/unveiling-wonder-woman%e2%80%99s-new-costume-direction/): "The bracelets are still there, but made more colorful, tied on the inside and over the hand, with a script W on each of them that form WW when she holds them side by side…and if you get hit by one of them, it leaves a W mark. This is a Wonder Woman who signs her work…letting her enemies know that she’s getting closer."

Good Grief.  She forms the WW when she holds her fists side-by-side?  Is she trying out for the WWE or a T-Pain video next?   ::)  ::)

Yeah, that seemed kind of silly to me too.  Honestly, as much as I am for keeping "iconic" looks, I could see changing up Wonder Woman's get up a bit.  But, especially with someone like Jim Lee at the wheel, you would think they could have had something a little better than this.  Like others said, the jacket in particular just screams "90s comics", when it is supposed to be a modernization of the character's look.  It really seems like they are always trying to jump start WW, like Jeff said.  I don't read WW personally, but I can see why they would want to give her a big push.  For being such an icon, she sure doesn't seem to have very many memorable comics or runs in particular, and that is a shame.  I wonder how many costume revamps have been well-received (particularly in the days of the internet though).  The Captain America suit was made fun of at the time for being "shiny" and all that, but it seems to be generally accepted now (at least at Bucky's look).  Others with more subtle changes (like Thor) seem to be pretty well received too.  This one (WW) not so much.
Title: Re: Comic Book Thread
Post by: BillCable on July 1, 2010, 02:28 PM
Ugh - that horrible replacement Captain America suit?  Didn't they retire that when he came back to life?

How about the Stark Industries Spidey suit?  That thing sure didn't last long.
Title: Re: Comic Book Thread
Post by: Mikey D on July 1, 2010, 03:04 PM
Ugh - that horrible replacement Captain America suit?  Didn't they retire that when he came back to life?

How about the Stark Industries Spidey suit?  That thing sure didn't last long.

Bucky's still Cap, Steve's just Steve, Shield agent or something now.  And Bucky is wearing the so called horrible suit.  I like it - it's his own but still retains the basic Captain America look.

The new Wonder Woman costume isn't going to last long IMO.  Other than the aforementioned Thor and Captain America, what other major costume changes have lasted (I'm talking major changes, not minor color changes like Batman's blue to black / grey or Daredevil's yellow to red)?  Spider-man wore all black for awhile but still went back to the classic red and blue (and did come back to black for a bit, I know). 

Failed costume changes off the top of my head that went back to the original because they sucked (similar to WW):
-Armored Daredevil
-Electric blue and red Supes
-Iron Spidey
-helmet Thing
-hook / long hair Aquaman (although I kind of like this one)
Title: Re: Comic Book Thread
Post by: Jeff on July 1, 2010, 03:34 PM
Other than the aforementioned Thor and Captain America, what other major costume changes have lasted (I'm talking major changes, not minor color changes like Batman's blue to black / grey or Daredevil's yellow to red)?  

Nightwing's sleek blue/black look was miles better than the 80s circus jumpsuit he started in...   it remains to be seen if he'll go back to it once he's done with the batsuit.

Tim Drake's Red Robin has made it 1.5 years almost, still waiting to see if they let him go back to being "Robin" when Bruce makes it back.
Title: Re: Comic Book Thread
Post by: JediJman on July 1, 2010, 04:35 PM
I only know the Marvel side, but there are a lot of other major costume changes I can think of besides those already mentioned:

Hawkeye has been running around in the Black Ninja Ronin outfit for several years now.  He’s just now going back to the purple archer look with Heroic Age.  I liked both, but the purple suit wins out for me and I like him best as an archer.

Mockingbird (Hawk’s wife) had a black/white leotard with long sleeves versus more of a catsuit and goggles look now that she’s back from the dead.  Hate the new look and wish they’d find a way to bring the old look back.

Wonderman changed his outfit a couple of times.  He was introduced with green and red spandex and had his whole head covered with red goggles.  The next rendition was just red sunglasses and a red overcoat.  The later incarnation and one that has stuck the longest is black spandex with a red belt and a big red W on the front.  I like that one best.

Ms. Marvel initially had Captian Marvel’s red and blue look.  Incredibly lame outfit IMHO even with Moonstone bringing it back in recent years.  The newer look is a black one-piece w/ long black gloves and thigh high boots.  Yowza. Definitely a much better look for her. 

Ant-Man (Scott Lang) changed from Pym’s original Red/Blue/Black design to a very different modernized version, though the character is totally different, so not really comparable.  For the record, I do like the older suit better even though it’s more campy and less bug-like.

Thor has a very new look since coming back to life a few years ago.  He’s had other minor variations in the past, but the new look is a little more streamlined I think.  I like ‘em both, but took a while for the new costume to grow on me.

The Vision went from Green/Yellow to all white for a while.  Pretty lame change and it didn’t last long (thankfully).

The “Iron Spidey” suit that Stark developed for Parker is actually still in use by another hero, a clone of MVP.  Not sure what he is doing now that the initiative is over.  I stilllike the Red/Blue or even the all black suit over these.

The Hulk went from dumb and green to smart and gray for several years.  That was a great storyline, but more driven by the prospect of a smart hulk IMO than the gray color/outfit change.  Green is still better.

Namor went from his trusty speedo to a much more covered up spandex look now that he’s hanging with the X-Men.  This change is the most like WW’s change I guess in that he’s covering up a lot more.  I was never really into the Sub-Mariner either way.

Iron Man has obviously had numerous changes over the year.  The War Machine look spawned a new hero in Rhodey.  The other one that stands out is the Silver Centurian outfit Start used to take down Stane and rebuild his life.  I always liked that look.  Changing his look is kind of his gig though and the red & gold looks are more iconic.

Hank Pym has had many different looks as well, but he usually changes his character with each.  Goliath/Giant Man were the two most similar, but he also had very different outfits as Ant-Man, Yellowjacket, and now the Wasp. 

The X-Men go through costume changes all the time and I consider their outfits a little less central to the characters.  Storm, Rogue, Angel and others have all had some pretty wild swings in design.  Wolverine’s brown costume stands out as a favorite for me.  The Fantastic Four have minor changes to their outfits every few years as well, but they’re mostly all similar to the originals.

There are plenty more examples out there, but the really core characters seem to always return to more original looks (Superman had long hair for a while there, Batman had his Knightfall armor, etc.).  Like everyone else, I think the new Wonder Woman outfit looks pretty bad – I don’t think it will last long at all.
Title: Re: Comic Book Thread
Post by: Brian on July 3, 2010, 05:02 PM
Jeff's Nightwing example is an excellent one.  One of my favorite characters in comics (Dick Grayson), and probably one of the biggest improvements costume-wise.  I really didn't like the old "high collar, baby blue" version - and thought the update was great.  Still curious where he'll end up post "Return of Bruce...", but we'll see.
Title: Re: Comic Book Thread
Post by: Brian on August 30, 2010, 12:35 PM
A little bit of news (http://www.newsarama.com/comics/batmen-coming-november-100830.html) has hit the NY Post regarding the future of the Batman comics and where everyone (Bruce, Dick, Damian, etc.) will be.  I won't post it here in case of spoilers, but I don't necessarily think it is anything unexpected either.

Aside from that, what is everyone reading these days?  I've actually been reading quite a few titles, but have been looking to trim things up a little bit.  With so many comics hitting $4 these days, it just seems like too much.  Since we used to live in a small town/rural area, I've pretty much always had subscriptions through Marvel for those titles (they arrive about a week later, and run about $1.67 per issue that way), but have kept the minis/DC stuff at our local shop.  Put together, I suppose it is about 20 titles a month (including minis) which just seems like too many at today's prices.  Just curious what anyone else is reading/enjoying.
Title: Re: Comic Book Thread
Post by: Dressel Rebel on August 30, 2010, 04:03 PM
Just curious what anyone else is reading/enjoying.

Shadowland (including spinoffs)
Daredevil
Dark Wolverine/Daken
Secret Avengers
FrankenCastle (got hooked when Daken aced him)

Crap gotta go for a bit brb w/ more
Title: Re: Comic Book Thread
Post by: Jeff on September 1, 2010, 04:39 PM
My current list is down to just 8 monthlies -
Batman, Batman and Robin, Detective Comics, Brightest Day, The Flash, GL, GL Corps, GL:Emerald Warriors

I'm also buying the Return of Bruce Wayne mini and will probably grab the main Batman - The Return 1-shot (but not all the tie-ins fore each bat-title).  Oh and I'll definitely pick up Grant Morrison's Batman, Inc. when that starts later this year (I already dropped Red Robin to make room in the budget for it).
Title: Re: Comic Book Thread
Post by: JediJman on September 1, 2010, 06:39 PM
My current list is down to just 8 monthlies

Don't you miss out on the discount with <10 regulars?  I was sitting at 9, so I scooped up Avengers Academy in addition to these:

All Avengers Series
All Iron Man Series
Hawkeye & Mockingbird
New Mutants (will probably drop this soon as all the stories lately tie to other X Titles that I Don't read  ::)  )
Transformers (Reg Series, Ironhide, Bumblebee, Spotlight, etc.)
All Star Wars (Currently just Invasion and Old Republic)
Thor
Valkrye (We'll see how this one goes - she's been interesting enough back in the avengers & has ties to Thor, so I'll give it a shot)
Title: Re: Comic Book Thread
Post by: Jeff on September 1, 2010, 10:32 PM
Don't you miss out on the discount with <10 regulars? 

My discount dropped from 20% down to 15% when I went below eleven, but it's still more than enough to offset shipping.

Discounts -
0 - 4 Monthly Titles: 5%
5 - 10 Monthly Titles: 15%
11 - 20 Monthly Titles: 20%
21 - 30 Monthly Titles: 25%
31 - 50 Monthly Titles: 30%
51 or more Monthly Titles: 35%
Title: Re: Comic Book Thread
Post by: Neal on September 1, 2010, 10:42 PM
Forgive my ignorance, but where do you order from that offers this staggered discount?
Title: Re: Comic Book Thread
Post by: Jeff on September 1, 2010, 10:46 PM
www.scifigenre.com

I've been buying my books there for a few years now.  Service has always been great.  Easy interface to set up and manage your monthly pull list.
Title: Re: Comic Book Thread
Post by: Neal on September 2, 2010, 09:19 AM
www.scifigenre.com

I've been buying my books there for a few years now.  Service has always been great.  Easy interface to set up and manage your monthly pull list.

Great.  Thanks for the link.
Title: Re: Comic Book Thread
Post by: Dressel Rebel on September 2, 2010, 10:01 PM

Valkrye (We'll see how this one goes - she's been interesting enough back in the avengers & has ties to Thor, so I'll give it a shot)

She's hot.
Title: Re: Comic Book Thread
Post by: Brian on September 7, 2010, 02:04 PM
My current list is down to just 8 monthlies -
Batman, Batman and Robin, Detective Comics, Brightest Day, The Flash, GL, GL Corps, GL:Emerald Warriors

I'm also buying the Return of Bruce Wayne mini and will probably grab the main Batman - The Return 1-shot (but not all the tie-ins fore each bat-title).  Oh and I'll definitely pick up Grant Morrison's Batman, Inc. when that starts later this year (I already dropped Red Robin to make room in the budget for it).

Much like with collecting, I admire your restraint.  I've been working on trimming down my monthlies as well, and I need to get better at that.  Much like with collecting Star Wars/etc. it is tough to find both the budget (especially with $4 books now) and storage space for so many, as they start piling up.

As I mentioned earlier, I get most of my Marvel books via subscription (stemming back to a time when we didn't live anywhere near a comic shop), and that makes them much more affordable too (about $1.67 an issue I think).  With that, my current subs look like this:

Amazing Spider-Man
Uncanny X-Men
Fantastic Four
Avengers (Avengers, New, and Secret right now)
Captain America
Iron Man
Ultimate Spider-Man

I've also been reading/checking out books like Wolverine, X-Men, and Daredevil off and on, and pick up any minis or "events" at our local shop (like Shadowland).  For the DC stuff, my list is very similar to Jeff's:

Batman
Batman and Robin
Batman Inc. (upcoming)
Green Lantern
The Flash
Superman
Brightest Day

I was reading JLA, but just wasn't enjoying it that much.  If/when they get better stories and back to more of a "big 7" lineup, I'd likely pick that up again.  Teen Titans is another book I like, but haven't been interested in lately.  I'm on the fence with Finch's upcoming "Batman: The Dark Knight", I may pick that up as well.  I also like GLC, but have tried to stay with just the core GL book for now.  I've also been picking up The Return of Bruce Wayne and Batman Beyond on the mini side of things.

Other than that, the only other title (and only non Marvel/DC book) that I'm getting is the recently (re)launched GI Joe: Real American Hero.  I'm really enjoying it so far, but I'm debating on whether or not I should wait for trades on this at all.  Not a matter of not liking it, but just trying to trim the pull list a bit.  Ideally, I think I should keep the number of titles to around 10 monthlies, but just haven't been able to make that many cuts yet.
Title: Re: Comic Book Thread
Post by: Brian on September 18, 2010, 06:56 PM
Just a minor note, but we were at TRU today and I noticed that they had a small section of comics for sale.  Our store at least hadn't ever had these before, but it was towards the back of the store (next to the action figures, cars, etc. aisles) and right above they had some of the direct to DVD movies (mainly the DC ones actually).  The comics seemed to pretty much be kids fare (Scooby Doo, Looney Tunes, etc.) along with DC titles - and actually fairly recent ones (Flash#3, 4, Superman #701, Batgirl #12, etc.)  Definitely not the entire library (and surprisingly, not a Batman book on the stands aside from "Batman: the Brave and the Bold" - unless they were sold out), but a few of the more recent books at normal prices.  Anyways, just kind of nice to see.  In a way, it reminded me of my youth, when I got basically all of my comics from our local drug store.  Just nice to see them at a retail outlet like that, and hopefully it is something that proves successful.
Title: Re: Comic Book Thread
Post by: efranks on September 19, 2010, 01:46 PM
I noticed comics at TRU the last time I stopped, about 2 or 3 weeks ago now, but didn't pay that much atteention to what was there.  I'm pretty sure what caught my eye was a Star Wars title, though.  Not sure how long they've been at TRU, I stop very rarely as I don't have a TRU closer than about 25 miles.

   E...
Title: Re: Comic Book Thread
Post by: Morgbug on September 20, 2010, 01:01 PM
What do comics retail for now in the U.S.?  I haven't bought any in so long I no longer have a clue.  I know I pick up the occasional one in Walmart to read in the aisle briefly and some of the pricing was downright absurd. 
Title: Re: Comic Book Thread
Post by: Mikey D on September 20, 2010, 01:10 PM
Most are $2.99, some are $3.99.

I spend way too much on comics a week, I really need to cut back my pull list or wait for TPBs.
Title: Re: Comic Book Thread
Post by: Morgbug on September 20, 2010, 01:19 PM
Thanks.  That's not too bad really considering back in 1984 I was paying $0.75 - 0.95 per book.  The prices really started ramping up around the early 90s I think.  I've seen issues at Walmart with a $6.99 price point and I just about crapped my drawers. 
Title: Re: Comic Book Thread
Post by: Brian on September 20, 2010, 02:41 PM
Most are $2.99, some are $3.99.

I spend way too much on comics a week, I really need to cut back my pull list or wait for TPBs.

That's what I'm in the process of figuring out as well.  I probably buy too many anyways, but so many of them are switching to $3.99 now, the dollar amount is getting ridiculous as well.  I'm thinking about starting to wait for trades on some things as well, or just do without.  Aside from the prices, I'm really kind of enjoying comics these days overall.  Still some crap out there, and everyone has their preferences, but I'm pretty happy with what I've been reading for the most part.

I think I mentioned it before, but since my comic reading started prior to being in a "city" with a comic shop, I still get the majority of my Marvel books through subscriptions.  It really works out pretty well, particularly with the higher prices now, as a year's subscription is about $20, or about $1.67 or something an issue.  I usually get them one week later than the stand date, and have rarely had a problem with damage (although I'm not as picky as some maybe with that).  I hit our local shop once or twice a month for DC stuff, maybe an additional Marvel book here or there, and right now the GI Joe: RAH series.  I'm thinking about starting to wait for trades on stuff like the Joes and most minis, just because it would save a bit and I think I could wait.  Much like Star Wars, things have ballooned since I first got back into comics.  I started out with just Spidey, then added Batman, then X-Men...Avengers....Fantastic Four...Green Lantern...etc. until I got to the point where I read 12-20 books a month I guess.
Title: Re: Comic Book Thread
Post by: Brian on October 8, 2010, 11:15 AM
I read news yesterday that DC is going to be dropping its $3.99 books back to $2.99 (http://www.newsarama.com/comics/dc-drops-399-price-point-101007.html) (and dropping the second features) on titles like Batman Inc., Batman: The Dark Knight, Emerald Warriors, Action Comics, Detective Comics, Streets of Gotham, JLA, etc. starting in January.

This is definitely good news, and I certainly hope Marvel follows suit (at least with "regular sized" books).  Honestly, the majority of the "second features" from either company I could take or leave anyways.  I think I'd rather save the $1.
Title: Re: Comic Book Thread
Post by: McMetal on December 27, 2010, 11:08 AM
So I've starting getting back into comics again recently, no new stuff, but attempting to pick up all the numerous variant covers and things I missed over the years from Image, Wildstorm, etc.

I've had to resort to buying off of eBay because none of the titles I need are in any of the comic shops around here and for some reason none can ever be found at any of the conventions that come through town.

Anyway, I got an email over the weekend inviting me to join the "eBay Super Comic Collectors Group" or some such thing and I'm wondering if this is just some kind of phishing scam or actually something legit. I have been an avid eBayer for over fifteen years and have never heard of them having any kind of dedicated user groups or anything like that.

Has anyone else heard of this?
Title: Re: Comic Book Thread
Post by: BillCable on December 27, 2010, 12:03 PM
I've never heard of them, but apparently eBay does have Collector Groups:

http://groups.ebay.com/groups/Collectors-Clubs/112
Title: Re: Comic Book Thread
Post by: JohnH on January 7, 2011, 04:43 PM
Maybe you guys can lead me in the right direction.  I've always been more of a toys, movies and toons guy, but recently I've had the urge to start reading some of the DC comic storylines.  The universe is so expansive, I'm not really sure of the best place(s) to start.  So far these are the only graphic novels I've read:

Batwoman: Elegy
Final Crisis
Superman: Escape from Bizarro World
Batman: Killing Joke
Supergirl: Way of the World
Jack Kirby's OMAC

I have a few waiting in the wings (Superman/Batman: Supergirl, Superman: Last Son, Justice League: Second Coming, Crisis on Infinite Earths) and I've started up a couple of recent series (Zatanna, Wonder Woman 600+, Batman: The Dark Knight).  What are some other "must reads" that I should add to that list?

John
Title: Re: Comic Book Thread
Post by: Brian on January 10, 2011, 10:58 AM
It all depends on your tastes I suppose, but as far as DC books I'd say top on the list over the past year or two has been Batman and Robin (by Grant Morrison).  Now, the creative team is switching over (to Pete Tomasi, who is also good), but you can get Morrison's run in trades/hardcovers if you're interested.  It is all very good.  He has now moved over to a new title, Batman Inc., which looks great as well.  I'd also recommend the Green Lantern books.  Personally, I've only read the main title every month for the past few years, but I've heard great things about GL Corps and the newer Emerald Warriors as well.

Otherwise, I hear great things about Secret Six (although I don't read it), and some other titles.  Superman seems pretty boring to me right now, and JLA is a mess (or at least it was when I dropped it six months ago).  I do like the current Flash run, but it isn't anything like "you must read it".  It has been good so far, and will be going into its own little event (Flashpoint) this year.  I think all the Batman stuff is pretty decent though, at least I enjoy it enough.  As far as the other DC titles, maybe someone else can shed more light.  Admittedly, I mostly stick to the "big guns" (Batman, GL, Flash, Superman, etc.).
Title: Re: Comic Book Thread
Post by: Jeff on January 25, 2011, 11:17 AM
To keep this thread spoiler free, all Fantastic Four talk has been moved to the existing thread (http://www.jedidefender.com/yabbse/index.php?topic=21272.0).  Thanks!
Title: Re: Comic Book Thread
Post by: Brian on May 10, 2011, 02:07 PM
Although I'm sure this could also be posted elsewhere, I figured this was as good a place as any.  IGN has released their list of the Top 100 Comic Book Heroes (http://www.ign.com/top/comic-book-heroes).  I know it is of course all a matter of opinion, but it makes for an interesting read so I thought I'd post it here.  You can check out pics, info and video at the link for all 100, but here's the Top 10 for anyone interested:

10.  Daredevil
9.  The Hulk
8.  The Flash (Wally West)
7.  Green Lantern (Hal Jordan)
6.  Captain America (Steve Rogers)
5.  Wonder Woman
4.  Wolverine
3.  Spider-Man
2.  Batman
1.  Superman
Title: Re: Comic Book Thread
Post by: Paul on May 10, 2011, 08:32 PM
Drop the Hulk and Wolverine and I'd say those are all in the Top 20 for me to an extent in a different order. 

Hulk and Wolverine don't crack the top 50. (IF I could name 50 that is)
Title: Re: Comic Book Thread
Post by: evenflow on May 11, 2011, 01:44 AM
I dont get the whole Superman appeal, I like my super heroes with a more gritty internal flaw.
Title: Re: Comic Book Thread
Post by: McMetal on May 11, 2011, 08:35 AM
I dont get the whole Superman appeal, I like my super heroes with a more gritty internal flaw.

You pretty much just summarized why Marvel >>> DC Comics from the 60's-80's. Agree 100%.
Title: Re: Comic Book Thread
Post by: evenflow on May 11, 2011, 10:25 PM
I dont get the whole Superman appeal, I like my super heroes with a more gritty internal flaw.

You pretty much just summarized why Marvel >>> DC Comics from the 60's-80's. Agree 100%.

Also why i prefer Marvel over DC.
Title: Re: Comic Book Thread
Post by: JediJman on May 12, 2011, 02:06 AM
I can't believe Daredevil and Hulk are in the top ten, but not Iron Man.  What a bunch of Haters.  Iron Man founded the Avengers and has stayed on to lead them across multiple teams.  He's been everything from the billionaire industrialist playboy to the secretary of defense to a flat out broke and homeless alcoholic.  He has been a key player in almost every major marvel event (Secret Wars, Siege, Cival War, Secret Invasion - you name it).  What in the hell have Hulk or Daredevil that even comes close to this? 

And how in the world does Green Arrow rank higher than Hawkeye?  Greg Miller seems a bit too DC biased to me. I also don't think Supes belongs at #1 anymore.  Batman seems wildly more popular in both the movies and the comics.  I think most of the rest of the list makes sense, but would change it up a little:

1. Batman
2. Spiderman
3. Superman
4. Wolverine (hate all you want, he's on the X-Men, X-Force, Avengers, and still has time for his own book and a new girlfriend.  Definitely the best there is at what he does)
5. Captain America
6. Wonder Woman
7. Iron Man
8. Green Lantern
9. Flash
10. Thor  (probably the best alter ego on the list and bolstered by the fact that he is now one of the few remaining with a movie)
Title: Re: Comic Book Thread
Post by: Brian on May 26, 2011, 08:56 PM
In the same fashion as the earlier list, IGN has also done a rundown of their Top 100 Villains (http://comics.ign.com/top-100-villains/index.html) in Comic Books.  They list 100, but here's the Top 10 for anyone interested:

1. Magneto
2. Joker
3. Doctor Doom
4. Lex Luthor
5. Galactus
6. Darkseid
7. Ra's Al Ghul
8. Loki
9. Dark Phoenix
10. Kingpin

An interesting list once again.  I think, although maybe not in that order, the Top 4 are pretty good.  The rest of the list, I'm sort of surprised not to see villains like Sinestro, Green Goblin/Norman Osborn, Red Skull, etc. included over some of the others within the Top 10.
Title: Re: Comic Book Thread
Post by: BillCable on May 26, 2011, 09:26 PM
3. Doctor Doom
4. Lex Luthor
2. Joker
5. Galactus
1. Magneto
6. Darkseid
7. Ra's Al Ghul
8. Loki
9. Dark Phoenix
10. Kingpin

Add Thanos, Green Goblin.
Title: Re: Comic Book Thread
Post by: Matt_Fury on May 27, 2011, 12:34 AM
Honorable mention to the original Hobgoblin.  I might be dating myself but that was a great storyline.
Title: Re: Comic Book Thread
Post by: Jeff on May 31, 2011, 05:12 PM
DC Renumbering/rebooting pretty much every comic book in September (http://dcu.blog.dccomics.com/2011/05/31/dc-comics-announces-historic-renumbering-of-all-superhero-titles-and-landmark-day-and-date-digital-distribution/)

Man, some days I really, really hate modern comic book marketing.  I really, really wish we lived in a time where good storytelling could sell a book, not variant covers, deaths that don't stick, and constant issue #1s.   ::)  ::)  ::)

Or, for a silver lining, maybe this is my opportunity to make a clean break from DC and print comics?  :-X


edit:  Also saw this quote from Bob Wayne, SVP of Sales (http://www.newsarama.com/comics/dc-comics-revamp-retailer-letter-110531.html)

"the new #1s will introduce readers to a more modern, diverse DC Universe, with some character variations in appearance, origin and age. All stories will be grounded in each character's legend - but will relate to real world situations, interactions, tragedy and triumph."  
Title: Re: Comic Book Thread
Post by: BillCable on May 31, 2011, 05:36 PM
Does this mean they're ending the runs of Detective Comics and Action Comics?  That'd be just wrong, IMO.
Title: Re: Comic Book Thread
Post by: Brian on May 31, 2011, 07:28 PM
Does this mean they're ending the runs of Detective Comics and Action Comics?  That'd be just wrong, IMO.

That was one of my biggest problems with the announcement as well.  I've read the rumors of this happening for a couple weeks now online, and was hoping they would at least spare Detective and Action, even if it meant keeping them separate from the "new universe".

Of the new "plan", it certainly is bold and interesting.  One of the bright spot is the Geoff Johns/Jim Lee pairing on JLA.  That is something I thought that book needed for awhile now, and it could really be great.  I noticed in some of the quotes about this new plan that the characters will be "younger", so it will be interesting to see what will happen with characters like Dick Grayson, Wally West, etc. and even the younger generation of Tim Drake, Bart Allen (or even younger, with Damian Wayne).
Title: Re: Comic Book Thread
Post by: BillCable on May 31, 2011, 07:32 PM
Didn't they just do this exact thing with Wonder Woman, and it was an abject failure?
Title: Re: Comic Book Thread
Post by: Dressel Rebel on May 31, 2011, 10:24 PM
Oh God, this is terrible news.  Ugh.  I'll be in the Hotties thread.
Title: Re: Comic Book Thread
Post by: Jeff on May 31, 2011, 10:33 PM
Didn't they just do this exact thing with Wonder Woman, and it was an abject failure?

I can't even count the number of times DC has tried to "reboot" their main continuity lately - Infinite Crisis, 52, Final Crisis, Flashpoint, etc.  Seems like every other year someone is doing something that creates a brand new continuity for someone.

My biggest gripe with the "let's reboot everyone" is WTF did they waste the last two years on stories that brought back a whole bunch of Silver Age characters and return things to 1980s continuity if they were just going to blow it all up again?  Oh yeah - one last $$$$$$$$ grab at the fans like me.   ::)
Title: Re: Comic Book Thread
Post by: Brian on June 1, 2011, 11:07 AM
Yeah, I'm not sure what to think, and I can see why people are upset (particularly long time DC fans).  It seems like DC has been trying to "clean things up" with their universe for awhile now (like Jeff mentioned), and maybe they just finally decided to do a wholesale change and see what happens.  I'm very curious to see what this means for a lot of characters/books, as many are I'm sure.  I will say I'm excited for the new Justice League book, simply because of the writer/artist team and the fact that we're finally getting the big guns in there again.  That book has been boring for the past few years+.  Outside of that, I'm most curious to see what is happening with the Batman/GL books.  It sounds like Johns will stay on GL, so I'm sure it is in good hands...but I've really been enjoying both Batman and Robin and Batman, Inc. and I'm curious if those will be staying or not.  I've seen a rumor that Grant Morrisson will be writing the new Superman book, so I wonder if that means he's off Batman.  We'll see.  Like Jeff said, it seems like they've got a lot of good things built up over the past couple years and now they're going to have to blow it up again.  I'm sure it will boost their sales, at least initially, but I wonder what the lasting impact will be.
Title: Re: Comic Book Thread
Post by: Jeff on June 1, 2011, 11:37 AM
Outside of that, I'm most curious to see what is happening with the Batman/GL books.

Man, there are all sorts of rumors out there today...  the biggest two being Superman single and dating WW and then The Teen Titans being rebooted all the way back to the 70s - Dick (Robin), Wally (Kid Flash), Donna (Wonder Girl), Garth (Aqualad).

I admit that I'm more curious today to learn how all this is playing out, but I am still annoyed with DC and the constant reboots.  Even this... is it a ploy to "reboot" everything for a while and next summer we'll once again be "doing something dramatic that changes everything", which ultimately ends up setting the majority of the DCU back to it's 70+ year continuity?  I mean, at this point I have no trust in DC.  They say "OMG, we're rebooting for a fresh new start d00dz", but they have said that a whole bunch of times before...  

Is this a "real" reboot or just the latest in a long line of One Year Later, 'you won't believe what we're doing this time' reboot stunts?
Title: Re: Comic Book Thread
Post by: Brian on June 1, 2011, 02:23 PM
Man, there are all sorts of rumors out there today...  the biggest two being Superman single and dating WW and then The Teen Titans being rebooted all the way back to the 70s - Dick (Robin), Wally (Kid Flash), Donna (Wonder Girl), Garth (Aqualad).

I sort of get the feeling that might be where things are headed as well, with characters like Dick and Wally heading back to their original "sidekick" personas, and perhaps even seeing Barbara Gordon as Batgirl again.  I'm not sure how I feel about something like that.  On one hand, you're sort of just getting rid of any character growth of these characters (like Dick from Robin to Nightwing to (a) Batman), but on the other hand - as a Batman fan - my favorite "era" is when Bruce was Bats, Dick was Robin, and Babs was Batgirl.  It sort of echoes back to Batman: TAS being my favorite version of Batman.  That being said, I've really been enjoying the Bat-books lately (particularly B & R and Batman Inc.), and it would be sort of sad to see that go away.  They've actually grown Damian Wayne into a pretty interesting character, not to mention someone like Tim Drake.  I'm curious, if this de-aging does happen, what will happen to that third/fourth/etc. generation characters like that.

It sort of seems like - if some of these rumors are true - that they're just picking and choosing to make what they feel is the "best".  You can see from the JLA promo pic that Cyborg has graduated to the JLA, and recent comments make it sound like they'd really like to push him up towards the "big leagues", so you could possibly have Cyborg graduating to the JLA, but Dick/Wally/etc. de-aged and back on the Titans.  Also, if the whole breaking up Clark and Lois thing is true (not to mention the WW rumor), I could see a LOT of complaining.  This is from a Spidey fan who went through the whole OMD debacle, and although it stunk, that was just one character - this is an entire line.  I can see some reasons why DC would want to do this, but it is definitely a risk.  I'm really interested to learn more about the books when the Sept. solicits come out in a couple weeks.  Hopefully they aren't all classified :).

Also, I'm not one that has bought any digital books, but that is obviously a big part of this revamp as well - the whole "day and date digital availability".  I wonder if it will make the splash they are hoping or not.  Obviously the goal is to get new readers, and digital distribution is the way of the (eventual) future, but I'm wondering how much of a difference it will make right now.  I give them credit for being bold and trying something like this though.  The one thing about the whole reboot though - although we don't know many of the details yet, if they are doing this (and they are), they just as well do everything necessary right now.  Hopefully make it "ground floor" enough so they don't have to do it again in a year, two years, or more.  I know all the #1's are to cater to "accessability", but after five years you've got 60 issues built up of any particular title anyways, already daunting to a new reader.  I remember reading a Grant Morrisson interview within the past couple years where he thought comics (and how he thought of his own writing) should be written in "seasons" like television.  Have a 12-13 issue season, then start "Volume 2, Issue 1".  An interesting concept, and if they're going to reboot the whole line anyways, it might not be a bad idea (but still, put Detective and Action back to their normal numbers and let them operate outside of it). :)
Title: Re: Comic Book Thread
Post by: Brian on June 1, 2011, 02:35 PM
And now another rumor (from Bleeding Cool), of the 52 new #1's coming out in September, included will be Batgirl #1 (with Barbara Gordon), and Nightwing #1 (no details).
Title: Re: Comic Book Thread
Post by: Jeff on June 1, 2011, 03:24 PM
On one hand, you're sort of just getting rid of any character growth of these characters (like Dick from Robin to Nightwing to (a) Batman)...
[snip]
... it would be sort of sad to see that go away.  They've actually grown Damian Wayne into a pretty interesting character, not to mention someone like Tim Drake.  I'm curious, if this de-aging does happen, what will happen to that third/fourth/etc. generation characters like that.

Just look at Batman and Flash in recent 2-3 years.  DC wanted a "new young Batman and Robin" to market, so they cleared the way for Dick/Batman & Damian/Robin.  Only they still had to sevice us 25+ year DC guys, so they brough back Bruce and tried to do both versions.

And same with Flash.  Wally gets married.  Then Wally tries to make the world forget he's the Flash to get a secret identity again (reboot).  Then he has kids.  Then Bart gets aged up so Wally can retire (reboot with new #1).  Then Bart dies and Wally comes back, with speed-aged kids (reboot, back to Wally's #ing).  Then Barry comes back and Wally is gone again (reboot with a new #1).  Then, Bart comes back.  Once again, we have DC trying to do what they want (Barry/Flash and Bart/Kid Flash), but trying to make the old timers happy (Wally/Flash... who showed up in like 2 issues so far this past year).

Now Flashpoint and... REBOOT (with yet another #1).  ::)  ::)

It is really sounding to me like this is an effort to get the best of both worlds - they get the "young and hip" Batman and Robin they want AND they get to keep the names that everyone knows (Bruce and Dick).  What does that mean for Damian, Stephanie, Tim, etc?  I don't know...
Title: Re: Comic Book Thread
Post by: Brian on June 2, 2011, 12:38 PM
A little more information on some of DC's September launches, several artists as writers (Daniel, Manapaul, Van Sciver, Jurgens, etc.):

DC Reveals Teams for Revamped Justice League Line of Titles (http://www.newsarama.com/comics/dc-revamped-justice-league-titles-110602.html)

Included are (Writer/Artist) - all are of course #1's:

Wonder Woman: Azzarello/Chiang
Aquaman: Johns/Reis
Flash: Manapaul/Buccellato
Fury of Firestorm: Van Sciver and Simone/Cinar
Savage Hawkman: Daniel/Tan
Green Arrow: Krul/Jurgens
Justice League International: Jurgens/Lopresti
Mister Terrific: Wallace/R. Robinson
Captain Atom: Krul/Williams II
DC Universe Presents: Rotating Artist/Writers

Nice to get a little information on the titles, and hopefully they'll continue to sprinkle out more in the coming days (specifically the Batman and GL titles).  Of the ones listed here (including the already announced Justice League), I think the ones I would consider checking out Justice League, Aquaman, and the Flash.
Title: Re: Comic Book Thread
Post by: Jeff on June 2, 2011, 12:51 PM
Random thoughts...

- I assume it's obvious that the Flash is Barry, but I think it's interesting that it isn't spelled out anywhere... nor any mention of a "Kid Flash" or anyone else. Have to keep everyone guessing I suppose...   I'm sure it will come out eventually, but I wish they'd just come out and tell us who's staying, who's going, and who is changing...  :-\

- wow, they really did a number on Firestorm - Ronnie Roush is de-aged to a high schooler (goodbye "Ronnie's an alcoholic" continuity  :-X) and the whole Firestorm origin looks like the one from the Batman: Brave and Bold cartoon (where Jason and Ronnie are merged in a school accident) instead of the classic origin.

- The 'Savage' Hawkman?  ::)

- Mister Terrific gets his own book...  wonder what that means for the JSA and the "old" heroes?


The whole thing still pisses me off more than it excites me...    but I'm willing to wait to see everything that is planned before I decide to stay or quit.
Title: Re: Comic Book Thread
Post by: efranks on June 2, 2011, 02:00 PM
Other than a short stint reading Superman back in the early 90's (yes, his death pulled me in), I've never read any of the DC books and that was mostly because the history and reboots and Crisis events made everything so muddled.

I'm wondering if this #1 reboot will be a place where I'd be able to jump in.  I'd like to read Green Arrow but never felt like jumping into the middle of whatever was going on at the time, so I might actually check out that book.

I think the more important event, as others have said, is the simultaneous digital release.  I'd have to think that some of the smaller comic shops, especially those that are mainly comics and don't get into toys, games, statues, etc, have to be worried about this.  Even with DC offering a way for the stores to share in the digital revenue, if I owned a shop I'd be very nervous.

   E...
Title: Re: Comic Book Thread
Post by: Brian on June 3, 2011, 11:05 AM
The New GL Books (http://www.newsarama.com/comics/dcnu-new-green-lantern-110603.html) have been announced now as well.
Title: Re: Comic Book Thread
Post by: Jeff on June 3, 2011, 11:41 AM
The New GL Books (http://www.newsarama.com/comics/dcnu-new-green-lantern-110603.html) have been announced now as well.

Once again, I notice there is no mention of Hal being the Green Lantern in GL #1.  I'm assuming it's him, but it would be like DC to put out a book with no Hal at the same time there is a Hal/GL movie. And, based on the movie and the direction Johns has been heading with Thaal, I wouldn't be surprised if when the #1 kicks off, Thaal Sinestro will be GL of Korugar again.  That way a whole new generation can watch "the Fall of Sinestro" - I can see the 4-part arc already! :-X

Interesting to see Kyle gets his 'own' book again in the GL Rainbow Raiders New Guardians book... I wonder though if he'll be a GL or if he'll end up with a Blue Ring like so many people have been rumoring for a while...  or will the "new Guardians" all have the emoticon powers (Ion, Predator, Parallax, etc)?
Title: Re: Comic Book Thread
Post by: BillCable on June 3, 2011, 01:31 PM
or will the "new Guardians" all have the emoticon powers (Ion, Predator, Parallax, etc)?

EMOTICON POWERS???!!!

 :)  ;)  :D  ;D  >:(  :(  :o  8)  ???  ::)  :P  :-[  :-X  :-\  :-*  :'(  >:D

Where's a dancing banana when you need one??!!
Title: Re: Comic Book Thread
Post by: Brian on June 3, 2011, 08:54 PM
Judging by the interview with the new Flash team over at Newsarama (http://www.newsarama.com/comics/Manapul-Buccellato-DCNu-Flash-110603.html), it sounds like Barry is still the Flash, so at least we know one for sure now :).
Title: Re: Comic Book Thread
Post by: Jeff on June 6, 2011, 11:39 AM
Batman Day.

Oh man, I HATE the idea of Detective Comics #1.  Goobye 880+ issue legacy.   :'(

Looks like we've got these announced so far...
Batman #1 = Scott Snyder/Greg Capullo
Detective #1 = Tony Daniel
Batman & Robin #1 = Peter Tomasi / Pat Gleason
Dark Knight #1 = David Finch / Jay Fabok

Notes
- Bruce = one and only Batman
- Damian = Robin

Still no word on Tim, Dick, or Barbara...  though the Barbara as Batgirl rurmors are still flowing strong.
Title: Re: Comic Book Thread
Post by: Brian on June 6, 2011, 11:52 AM
Batman Day.

Oh man, I HATE the idea of Detective Comics #1.  Goobye 880+ issue legacy.   :'(

Looks like we've got these announced so far...
Batman #1 = Scott Snyder/Greg Capullo
Detective #1 = Tony Daniel
Batman & Robin #1 = Peter Tomasi / Pat Gleason
Dark Knight #1 = David Finch / Jay Fabok

Notes
- Bruce = one and only Batman
- Damian = Robin

Still no word on Tim, Dick, or Barbara...  though the Barbara as Batgirl rurmors are still flowing strong.

Glad to start getting some info on the Bat-world.  Agreed on Detective #1....I really wish they would have just left Detective/Action alone.  Otherwise, I'm somewhat excited to see what is to come with the Bat titles (and see where Dick, Tim, Barbara end up).  Interesting that Damian is Robin with Bruce's Batman.  I mean, the character has really become a strong one over the past couple years and I thought they would try to include him, but with the possibly de-aging of heroes like Bruce, Clark, Hal, Diana, etc. I was wondering how they would make it fit.  I see IGN is saying there will be more news later today, and in their image gallery there is a pic of an awfully Barbara-looking Batgirl.
Title: Re: Comic Book Thread
Post by: Jeff on June 6, 2011, 02:48 PM
in their image gallery there is a pic of an awfully Barbara-looking Batgirl.

It's confirmed - Barbara Gordon = Batgirl (http://dcu.blog.dccomics.com/2011/06/06/gail-simone-on-barbara-gordons-return-to-batgirl/).  I guess this explains why Simone wasn't as mad as everyone else was that she was being taken off BoP. :P

Four more Bat-Titles...
Batwoman #1 = J.H. Williams III, Haden Blackman, Amy Reeder
Batgirl #1 = Gail Simone, Ardian Syaf, Vicente Cifuentes
Catwoman #1 = Judd Winick, Guillem March.
Birds of Prey #1 = Duane Swierczynski, Jesus Saiz

Still nothing on Tim that I have seen... but lots of rumors and an alleged pic that show Dick will in fact be heading back to his Nightwing persona.

I can't believe they are going to undo Oracle and restore Babs to Batgirl...  really makes me wonder how they are going to pull that off and not tick off the ADA folks who loved having a wheelchair bound hero.  Maybe it'll be some combo of both, like her batgirl suit has some advanced tech that allows her to walk but without it she's in the wheelchair?  Or is this rebooting the whole Batgirl history?  More wait and see I guess...
Title: Re: Comic Book Thread
Post by: efranks on June 6, 2011, 03:29 PM
Dick has now been confirmed as Nightwing (http://comics.ign.com/articles/117/1172824p1.html).

Jason Todd is coming back in "Red Hood and the Outlaws," along with Arsenal and Starfire. 
Title: Re: Comic Book Thread
Post by: Jeff on June 6, 2011, 03:51 PM
Well, I guess I'm glad it's Dick and not Jason that is returning to Nightwing.  The "Jason as Nightwing" thing they tried in One Year Later storylines was stupid and I'd have been mad if they went that route with Jason again.  Of course, at this point I doubt they do anything with Jason that I will like...  I was really hoping that they would use this 'not a reboot' reboot to put Jason back in the ground where he belongs. :P

But, from the looks of that story, it sounds like Jason is (once again) attempting to reform himself as an anti-hero.  Ugh.  ::)  Someone remind me again why they brought him back from the dead?  So that he could waffle back and forth between "anti-hero" and villian?  It looks like they are setting up this book to be the place they are going to stick the characters they have screwed up so bad that even a reboot can't save them (I'm looking at you, Roy Harper).

Still nothing on Tim...?  I'm still assuming he'll be "Red Robin" based on everything that has come out today.  Nice job on DC's part drawing this out over the whole day...   


Also starting to wonder more about Superman.  Will they come right out and say "no more marriage to Lois" or will it have to be dragged out of things they infer with the Superman solicits...?  Or will the marriage stay?  Hmmm...
Title: Re: Comic Book Thread
Post by: Brian on June 6, 2011, 08:10 PM
Glad we're at least getting some confirmation on where things are headed - and at least in this case they are actually confirming that yes, Bruce is Batman/Dick is Nightwing/Damian is Robin/Barb is Batgirl.  There sure is a mess of books in the Bat-universe coming up though.  I did see that Grant Morrison's Batman Inc. is coming back in January of 2012, so that's good news that it is at least coming up.

Like Jeff, I guess I'm glad Dick Grayson is Nightwing instead of Jason Todd, but otherwise I'm not sure what to think of it.  Other than Spidey/Peter Parker (and possibly Bruce/Bats) Dick Grayson has always been one of my favorite characters, and while I really like the Nightwing persona and everything, he just doesn't seem real relevant or important to the DCU (at least in the past).  I mean, I can understand not reverting him to Robin (that may have been too much) and also, to some extent, returning Bruce to the only "Batman" (since part of the point of their reboot is to make things easier to understand for new readers) - but I feel like Dick was much more integral to the DCU in both of those roles than as Nightwing.  I just hope that they keep him more involved with the rest of the DCU, and not just let him fade away a bit again.  To me, he is sort of one of the pillars of the original DCU alongside the "Big 7" and a few others.

As mentioned, still wondering where Tim Drake fits into things - unless that announcement is yet to come.  Looks like there are potentially some nice books coming up, but speaking as someone who most of the time was reading the majority of the Bat-related titles, I don't think I'll be able to do that anymore.  A lot of stuff on the way.  I will sort of miss the Dick Grayson/Damian Wayne B & R though, good stuff.
Title: Re: Comic Book Thread
Post by: Jeff on June 7, 2011, 12:27 PM
Hmmph.  Instead of Superman, it looks like today is "boring magic-based comics that Jeff never reads" (http://dcu.blog.dccomics.com/2011/06/07/dc-embraces-its-dark-side/) day.  Sure are a lot of magic/mystery/horror themed books there...

Oh well, we wait a little bit more for the fate of Tim, Superman, the Teen Titans, and the rest...
Title: Re: Comic Book Thread
Post by: efranks on June 7, 2011, 01:38 PM
That Justice League Dark book sounds kind of interesting.  I know there was a Constantine book, but was there an equivalent book to this, pre-reboot?

   E...
Title: Re: Comic Book Thread
Post by: Jeff on June 7, 2011, 01:55 PM
Yeah, they were called Shadowpact (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Shadowpact). 

From wikipedia:  "The Shadowpact is a group of magic-based heroes who fought against the Spectre in the 2005 limited series Day of Vengeance, published by DC Comics. They are a sort of Justice League for the supernatural elements of the DC Universe."

It was a slightly different roster, but the same idea - group of magic/supernatural heroes who fight demons and black magic users and other stuff like that...
Title: Re: Comic Book Thread
Post by: Brian on June 8, 2011, 10:27 AM
Well I think we know where Tim Drake (http://www.newsarama.com/comics/dcnu-teenage-heroes-superteams-110608.html) is showing up now.  Teen Titans is one of those books I always wanted to get into more.  It is a neat concept (and one I really think they should be pursuing for a movie), but I've either always come in too late or wasn't interested enough in the current lineup (I also like Titans when it is sort of the "big guns" of the Titan world, similar to JLA).  Looking at this pic of the new team though, it just screams '90s to me.  I'll probably give it a try, as it is a chance to get in at the beginning of Titans for once for me, but the interview makes it sound like this may be a book with the most changes.
Title: Re: Comic Book Thread
Post by: Jeff on June 10, 2011, 04:33 PM
Finally, Superman (http://dcu.blog.dccomics.com/2011/06/10/history-happens-now/).

You know, I think I've come full circle on the reboot -
- The books I liked, I'm not sure I like anymore due to all the changes (Dick back to Nightwing, "new" Teen Titans, etc).
- but the books I never bought (Superman) are actually looking good for the first time in a long, loing time.

I'm digging the idea of Grant Morrison on Superman - if he can revitalize him the way Grant's bat-books have been, I think I'll enjoy it (and it'd be the first time that I like a Superman book since pre-Doomsday Death).

I will admit though that I have no idea what is going on with Conner/Superboy now - is he some kind of a cyborg/robot thing now?   ???
Title: Re: Comic Book Thread
Post by: Brian on June 10, 2011, 08:51 PM
Yeah, they sure put off the Superman announcements long enough.  Not surprisingly, we won't know for sure about the Super-marriage prior to reading the book (unless rumors/leaks give it away).  As a Spidey fan who went through this once (although I do really enjoy the book now, I think it could be as good with the MJ marriage too), I hope they don't do away with Clark-Lois, but I wouldn't be surprised.

I'm sort of on two sides as well.  Some stuff I'm sort of excited for, and some I'm not.  Like I said, I'm a big Dick Grayson fan, and I'm a little worried how relevant he will be to the DCU in the Nightwing role again (plus, I really liked the Dick and Damian Batman and Robin).  Other than that, I'm sort of excited for the Bat titles (although I would have been without the reboot too), and I'll pick up at least some of the GL books as well.  I'm really happy to see the big guns in the JLA again.  Other than that, I may check out Action and/or Superman, and probably the Aquaman book (possibly Teen Titans, although I'm not sure yet).

I will admit though that I have no idea what is going on with Conner/Superboy now - is he some kind of a cyborg/robot thing now?   ???

Yeah, not sure what is up with Superboy.  He does look like a cyborg on the one cover, and then sort of different on the Teen Titans cover.  Not sure what we're going to get there.

They are still saying the Johns/Lee have some "bombshell" announcements about the future of Superman and the entire DCU coming tomorrow night (at Heroes something or other), so I wonder what is left to say?  Maybe it has something to do with the movie slate, or they are just going to give more information about the relaunch.
Title: Re: Comic Book Thread
Post by: Brian on June 19, 2011, 08:52 PM
A few more details about the DC reboot (courtesy of Bleeding Cool), this time relating to the timeline of the books:

Quote
Most of the released solicitation images for the DC Relaunch are not the covers for the first issue – so look forward to all those being announced soon as well.

Action Comics and Justice League are set in the past, the Green Lantern, Batman and LSH books are all continuing without a reboot. DCU Presents, Green Arrow and Hawkman are picking up where Brightest Day left off.

But for everything else, yes, it will be more of a reboot/restart. They are basically keeping the books going that were financially successful for them and restarting everything else.

The Flashpoint books were also being done by teams not being used in the reboot to help give those guys more time.

Not sure if this is "confirmed" or not, but interesting either way.  Sounds basically like Action Comics and Justice League are in the past, the Bat, GL, and Legion books are continuing as usual, Green Arrow, Hawkman, and DCU Presents are post-Brightest Day (or basically continuing as well), and the rest will be restarted.  Kind of strange they aren't all starting at the same point, but oh well.
Title: Re: Comic Book Thread
Post by: Brian on July 17, 2011, 04:26 PM
Just curious for those of you who are currently buying/reading comics, do you get rid of some every so often or continue to keep all of them?  I had honestly sorted out a stack of some that I intended to sell to our local store, but that store has since closed and I've switched to online ordering at this point.  I have to admit - much like collecting - space becomes more of a concern as time goes on.  I've thought about paring it down more and not keeping as much (I guess this is where trade waiting may help some as well), but at the same time I don't have anywhere for them to go at this point and I'm unsure of what to keep.  Anyways, just curious if you keep all of your comics, do you unload them every so often (and maybe just keep some favorites)...have you switched to trades and/or online reading?  Honestly, I've thought about just keeping the runs of my very favorite characters and unloading some of the other stuff somehow.  In the older days, I would say you could even donate them to kid-centric places - but many of the "regular" (non Marvel Age/Johnny DC) comics these days aren't exactly kid friendly in many cases.
Title: Re: Comic Book Thread
Post by: efranks on July 17, 2011, 05:43 PM
I pretty much keep everything, but I just had to buy a new long box the other day and I realized that with the Joe comics coming in 3 or 4 series, it's going to add up fast again.

I really don't know what to do with older issues.  I have a bunch of SW stuff I could probably clear out but I don't think there's any market it for it, wouldn't bring anything from the local store to add to their back issue collection, and I just hate tossing something like that.  Trades I could probably donate to the library, but single issues, not so much.

   E...
Title: Re: Comic Book Thread
Post by: JediJman on July 18, 2011, 07:19 AM
I keep almost all my new stuff as well.  I have thousands of books from when I was a kid though and am going to start selling them off in big chunks.  Space is really the issue for me too.  Most of my DC and independent books will be going.  I'm mainly going to try to just keep the Avengers and their character books (Iron Man, Thor, Cap, etc.) 

If you are looking to get rid of some, I have heard people get the best results from selling in lots.  If you bundle 10-20 issues together, you may have to sell the bundle for a little less, but better to get the dogs out the door along with the rarer issues.  Ebay or Craig's list will probably be the first places I go.  After that I'd probably have a garage sale or find a friend's where I can offer bundle packs for cheap.  Anything left after that, you either need to be patient and keep trying or just donate them.
Title: Re: Comic Book Thread
Post by: Jeff on July 18, 2011, 09:53 AM
I just hate tossing something like that. 

Halloween, dude!

Any kid that comes to the door in a comic-character costume gets a free comic (kid appropriate, of course).  Great way to get rid of those old issues that no one wants, a kid gets a free comic book (love their expressions when they see what they are getting) - everyone wins!


Title: Re: Comic Book Thread
Post by: Brian on July 18, 2011, 12:09 PM
Sounds like quite a few changes (http://www.newsarama.com/comics/dcnu-superman-lois-lane-break-up-110718.html) are in store for Superman with the upcoming DC relaunch.  Not sure I like it, although I obviously haven't read a single page yet.
Title: Re: Comic Book Thread
Post by: Jeff on July 18, 2011, 01:55 PM
Not sure I like it, although I obviously haven't read a single page yet.

Ditto.  Saw this at DC - "Timeless and modern, classic and contemporary, but younger, brasher and more brooding, this is Superman. The New Man of Tomorrow. (http://dcu.blog.dccomics.com/2011/07/18/the-new-man-of-tomorrow/)"

Brooding?  So, do we blame Twilight for this?  ::) 
Title: Re: Comic Book Thread
Post by: Brian on July 19, 2011, 04:51 PM
Newsarama (http://www.newsarama.com/comics/dcnu-didio-lee-talk-new-52-110719.html) has an interview up with Jim Lee and Dan Didio discussing some of the changes going into the upcoming DC "relaunch".  Some interesting stuff in there.  I'll admit, although I'm definitely checking out some of the books, I'm still not sure about some of this - particularly with Superman.
Title: Re: Comic Book Thread
Post by: Brian on August 8, 2011, 08:49 PM
Another snippet concerning the new DCU:

"Robins are Interns" (http://www.newsarama.com/comics/dcnu-the-new-52-retailer-info-2-110808.html)

Apparently, to help explain how the DCU is only five years old - yet Dick Grayson, Jason Todd, Tim Drake, and Damian Wayne have all been Robin - the position is being made an internship?  Not a lot of other details about how past relationships and/or stories will be effected but I've got a bad feeling about this.  I've been fairly open minded about much of the new DCU stuff (aside from Superman, which sounds a bit iffy in some areas), but I was hoping much of Batman would be left alone.
Title: Re: Comic Book Thread
Post by: BillCable on August 8, 2011, 09:02 PM
The latest LXG was suitably trippy.  It was no Black Dossier, but it was good.  Recommended if you've read the rest.
Title: Re: Comic Book Thread
Post by: Jeff on August 8, 2011, 09:31 PM
I was hoping much of Batman would be left alone.

I have mentally prepared myself for the Bruce/Dick timeline to make NO sense.  It can't.  There is no way for Dick to be in his early 20s and Bruce be 30 and have it work.  Did 18 year old Bruce adopt 10 year old Dick?  Probably not.  This revamp is going to nuke a BUNCH of "Boy Wonder" stuff and replace it with a lot of "Teen Wonder" adventures.  :-\

I'm guessing it has to go something like

Bruce = 30
- started his training/travels at age 18
- started Batman-ing at age 22
- adopted Dick (15) at age 23
- went public to join JLA at age 25
- Dick leaves (Bruce = 27, Dick = 19)
- brought in Jason (17) at age 27
- brought in Tim (15) at age 28
- brought in Damien (12) at age 30

So, in present DC time, that would make:
Bruce = 30 (Batman for 8 years)
Dick = 22 (Robin for 4 years, Nightwing for 3 years)
Jason = 20 (Robin for 1 year, dead for 1 year, Red Hood for 1 year)
Tim = 17 (Robin for 2 years, rookie Red Robin)
Damien = 12 (rookie Robin)

That seems to work.  Dick gets to be a "Teen Wonder" from 15-19, then spends college years as Nightwing (with a little replacement Batman duty in those 3 nightwing years).  Jason still has time for his dirt nap (no idea if Death in the Family is still in continuity), and Tim gets a few years as Robin before turning into Red Robin to "form" the Teen Titans.  It also requires a very young Bruce (18) to get involved with Talia to create Damien.   ::)  But the timing does work at least...

The giant flaw with the timeline is how do you work Barbara in there?  Let's say she's 21, close to Dick's age - if she has been Batgirl for "just a few years" as some interviews have said, then I'm not sure how she could have overlapped with Dick/Robin since he's been Nightwing fr that long in my timeline.

Arrg... I have to stop now, I'm only making my brain hurt...
Title: Re: Comic Book Thread
Post by: Jeff on August 10, 2011, 03:55 PM
Well, I think I have my DCnU pull list finalized for September...

Detective Comics #1 -  #1?  still can't believe that :(
Batman #1 -  see above
Batman and Robin #1
Nightwing #1
Batgirl #1
GL #1 - Sinestro?  I have to see how this plays out!
GLC #1
GL New Guardians #1 - but will drop this title quick if it has now real purpose/overall reason for the rainbow squad to exist
Flash #1 - another one that has a short leash... It's been over a year and I'm still not sold on the idea that bringing back Barry was a "good" idea (I miss Wally  :'()
JLA #1
Action #1 - I'll buy the first arc or two just to check out what Grant has planned for the "debut" of Superman
Superman #1 - same as Action, I'll read the first few to check out the new status quo for Supes, but will leave if it's not worth reading.

I went back and forth on Johns' Aquaman #1 and the three titles by Lobdell (TT, Red Hood, Superboy) since I used to love his x-books back in the day.  Ultimately, they fell away due to the almighty budget.  Maybe I'll pick up the trades (or even go digital  :o) on one or all of them if they get good reviews.
Title: Re: Comic Book Thread
Post by: Brian on August 11, 2011, 02:19 PM
Yeah, my DCnU pull list looks very similar to your Jeff, but should probably be more reigned in since I've got a lot of Marvel stuff as well.  Anyways, here's what I'm thinking...

Detective
Batman
Batman and Robin
Nightwing
Batgirl
Batman Inc. (when it returns in 2012 or whenever)
Green Lantern
GLC
The Flash (I agree, man do I miss Wally - who seems to be pretty much forgotten in the DCnU)
Justice League
Action Comics
Superman
Aquaman

There are a few on there that I'd have on a "short leash" as well.  I may just stick with the main GL title, depending on what is going on with the others.  I'm a big fan of the Flash character, but I'm more of a Wally West Flash fan myself and I don't see him returning to the role anytime soon.  I'm giving Aquaman a shot, because I like the character and want to see what Johns does with the title.  I'm giving both the Superman titles a look, although I'd rather just be picking up one.  I may check out Teen Titans as well, just because I've always liked the concept, but I'm not sure where that title is headed right now.  Primarily, it is the Bat books, GL, and Justice League that I'm most interested in.

You mentioned going "digital".  Has anyone here really done that?  Personally, I don't have an iPad (or similar device) but if we ever got one, I would probably consider it.  Much like collecting, space is really an issue with storing all these comics, and it is only going to get worse.  I could see switching to digital for a lot of stuff, and probably still get my absolute favorites in "paper" form still.  I'd still prefer having the actual comic I think, but I could see the advantages of digital for sure.
Title: Re: Comic Book Thread
Post by: JediJman on August 11, 2011, 06:15 PM
I've thought about digital comics, but I just can't do it.  I look at a screen all day for work, then hours beyond that between SW, comics, Facebook, etc.  I don't think I could escape the boarding/bagging/collecting aspect of tangible comics, even at a reduced price.
Title: Re: Comic Book Thread
Post by: Paul on August 11, 2011, 06:54 PM
You mentioned going "digital".  Has anyone here really done that?  Personally, I don't have an iPad (or similar device) but if we ever got one, I would probably consider it.  Much like collecting, space is really an issue with storing all these comics, and it is only going to get worse.  I could see switching to digital for a lot of stuff, and probably still get my absolute favorites in "paper" form still.  I'd still prefer having the actual comic I think, but I could see the advantages of digital for sure.

I've done it.  Now admittedly I don't buy near as many titles as you guys.

But I have not bought a paper comic of GI Joe since IDW went digital. I got the Dark Horse App and the DC App as well but have not filled them up yet. 
I have them on my iPad and it is great. 

I was never a bag and board type though, I bought them to read and would end up just tossing them after a while.
Title: Re: Comic Book Thread
Post by: Diddly on August 11, 2011, 08:06 PM
When do the reboots hit stores? I've never been much of a comic reader (all my knowledge comes from ___ The Animated Series and Wikipedia) but I wouldn't mind hopping on the relaunch bandwagon. I'll probably only pick up Batman and JLA related stuff, maybe Superman and The Flash.
Title: Re: Comic Book Thread
Post by: Jeff on August 11, 2011, 11:10 PM
Flashpoint #5 (which explains why/how the DCU changed) and JLA #1 hit on 8/31.  The rest of the new #1s hit in September with 13 new #1 books planned each week in September and a few more #1s planned for October and November.
Title: Re: Comic Book Thread
Post by: Diddly on August 12, 2011, 01:18 AM
Thanks Jeff. I'll start hitting up comic stores at the end of the month.
Title: Re: Comic Book Thread
Post by: BillCable on August 12, 2011, 08:27 AM
Flashpoint #5 (which explains why/how the DCU changed) and JLA #1 hit on 8/31.

So they're doing a Star Trek thing then?
Title: Re: Comic Book Thread
Post by: JediJman on August 12, 2011, 08:45 AM
Flashpoint #5 (which explains why/how the DCU changed) and JLA #1 hit on 8/31.

So they're doing a Star Trek thing then?

Sounds like some equivalent of that.  Rebooting all the characters and essentially wiping out/altering their histories.

For you DC guys, does this change impact all of the DC books?  Seems like not all titles are resetting to issue #1, so wondering if the whole DC universe is impacted...?
Title: Re: Comic Book Thread
Post by: Jeff on August 12, 2011, 10:17 AM
So they're doing a Star Trek thing then?

Sounds like some equivalent of that.  Rebooting all the characters and essentially wiping out/altering their histories.

It's not exactly a Star Trek thing since it's not a pure reboot of everything.  Some (most?) of the old continuity may exist... but some of the old continuity no longer exists... for some character, but not all.

Clear as mud, eh?

For you DC guys, does this change impact all of the DC books?  Seems like not all titles are resetting to issue #1, so wondering if the whole DC universe is impacted...?

Basically, it does affect the whole DCU.  EVERY mainline DC title is resetting to #1 in September (with JLA a week early, 8/31).   The separate universes, Vertigo (mature readers) and Johnny DC (Cartoon Network) books aren't being affected...  though there are some signs that Vertigo will be rebooted somehow early next year (dumping single issues, focusing on trades, moving trades to digital).

As to how much is changing... it's not clear.  All DC will say is that it's a sliding scale.  Some popular characters (Batman) have very little changes.  Some popular characters (Superman, JLA) are getting huge changes like total revamps to their origin (JLA), new status quo (Superman = the "first" superhero; Superman, Flash, Green Arrow are no longer married), or new team line-ups with new characters who have "always" been there (JLA).

The other part of the story, aside from changes to the characters themselves, is the massive DCU time-squeeze that is happening.  Most of the old DCU continuity still happened, just with compressed timelines (over 5 years instead of 12) and the characters are now younger (28-30 instead of 35). They are essentially cherry-picking some stuff that really sucked and saying "that never happened".  They are cherry-picking other popular storylines ans saying "that still happened", but maybe in a slightly tweaked way in order to fit into the new timeline (like who was still a Robin and for how long).   They haven't told us everything that is still IN and everything they dropped OUT (and they probably never will fully divulge the list of what's in and what's out).

So yeah - everyone in the main DCU is being affected somehow, we just don't know everything and DC is being coy about it, wanting you to buy the books to see what/who is different now. 
Title: Re: Comic Book Thread
Post by: BillCable on August 12, 2011, 12:13 PM
Some popular characters (Batman) have very little changes.  Some popular characters (Superman, JLA) are getting huge changes like total revamps to their origin (JLA), new status quo (Superman = the "first" superhero; Superman, Flash, Green Arrow are no longer married).

I had no idea Metropolis allowed both gay marriage AND polygamy...
Title: Re: Comic Book Thread
Post by: JediJman on August 12, 2011, 12:44 PM
Some popular characters (Batman) have very little changes.  Some popular characters (Superman, JLA) are getting huge changes like total revamps to their origin (JLA), new status quo (Superman = the "first" superhero; Superman, Flash, Green Arrow are no longer married).

I had no idea Metropolis allowed both gay marriage AND polygamy...

LOL! I think they were married in Gotham where anything goes...
Title: Re: Comic Book Thread
Post by: Jeff on August 30, 2011, 02:26 PM
Tomorrow is the big day... Flashpoint #5 and JLA #1. 

Sure hope it lives up to the hype.  I'm still disappointed that things have reached the point where DC felt they had to reboot the stories of my childhood, but I guess I understand.  Hopefully the stories will be good and validate the decision.  If the new stories suck, it's going to make it all that much more painful. 

Like I said, I'm willing to give it a chance though.  If it's good, I'll keep reading - if it sucks, there's always the $0.25 bins at the local comic shop for me to fill out some back-history on other books I used to buy.  ;)
Title: Re: Comic Book Thread
Post by: JediJman on August 30, 2011, 06:28 PM
Marvel went through something a little similar to this many years back in an arc called "Heroes Reborn."  A major event (surprise!) supposedly kills off Iron Man, Thor, Fantastic Four, etc.  Then they had newish origins and reset their ages.  For example, Tony Stark was a teenage inventor.  Everybody got #1 issues and new costumes and such - I thought the whole storyline was confusing at best and ridiculous at worst.  It supposedly drove strong sales and renewed interest in older characters, but they had all the "Heroes Return" after only a year, explaining that the essence or spirit of these characters was captured in a pocket universe by Reed Richard's son to protect them.   ::)

The DC reboot seems infinitely larger in scale, but not all that different.  I'm sure they're trying to figure out the next big event to sell more issues, but taking away big chunks of history is a pretty lame way to go IMO.  I guess we will see how sales respond, but I wouldn't be at all surprised to see this run for 12-18months, then have them determine some fantastic explanation to return everyone back to the way they were. 
Title: Re: Comic Book Thread
Post by: Brian on August 30, 2011, 08:53 PM
I wasn't totally on board with it at first, but I'll give it a chance.  I am excited for the new JLA book, because I can't say I've been too interested in that for a long time.  I've always thought they should put a team like Johns/Lee on there, and it is cool to see that happening.  I'm sure sales will be there, at least initially.  I fully expect to see at least 8 (possibly 9 or all 10) of the top ten sales books to be the DC launches next month.  The test will be if they can stay there.  I'm sure things like JLA, Batman, GL, etc. will all continue sales - but those books (with the possibly exception of JLA) had those sales anyways.  We'll see how things go, but I'm at least interested in checking things out.  It is definitely a good way to put a solid jumping on point to grab new readers, but I just don't know how many non-comic fans are just waiting to jump on board with books.  It is a problem that is really tough for the industry to solve I think, getting new readers.  I know my friends (virtually none of which are comic readers) would still look at them as kids' stuff or "funny books" more than anything else, and I think the majority of the general public feels that way too.
Title: Re: Comic Book Thread
Post by: JediJman on August 30, 2011, 10:32 PM
I think the industry is failing/has failed with younger readers.  I got into comics around 3rd grade.  Apparently I was near the bottom of my class in reading.  My mom knew I was into Star Wars, so she signed me up for a subscription to the Marvel Star Wars series, along with Moon Knight and the Avengers.  MK was a little dark for a kid, but the old SW stories and the Avengers had me hooked right away.  Stan Lee has admitted that he liked to use the comics to teach, so they would try to tie bigger words and concepts into the overall stories.  It worked for me, because I was at the top of my class in reading by the end of 3rd grade.

The comics are a different style these days and there are limitations to marketing to kids, but I think they are really missing the boat here.  Put more publicity into free comic book day, get some coupons or free comics out there in kids products like cereal boxes, sponsor reading programs for underprivileged kids.  There are dozens of great opportunities.  And get the subscription option going again...I remember getting so psyched to check the mail.  A subscription could also help offset the high costs, which is really the only barrier for kids.
Title: Re: Comic Book Thread
Post by: Diddly on August 31, 2011, 02:31 AM
I'm excited. I've never been much of a "comic guy" but the reboot gives me a chance to jump in and experience things as they happen, rather than tracking down a TPB and adding nothing to a conversation except "yeah, (insert story here) ruled/sucked!" Heck, last week I went into my local comic shop and bought $20 worth of comics after I reserved copies of some of the reboots, so it's getting me to buy other stuff too.
Title: Re: Comic Book Thread
Post by: Brian on August 31, 2011, 10:17 AM
The whole issue of new and/or younger readers is an interesting one to me - I'm curious to see where it goes.  Like many (most?) I started reading comics as a kid (my first was a Spidey comic when I was 5 - which I still have), and continued until high school.  I stopped while in college for the most part, and got back into them shortly after (about when the movies started up I think).  I've been going strong with them ever since.  The local store I used to frequent has since closed, but I can't say I ever saw kids in there buying comics except for on free comic book day, and even then it seemed more like "comic dads" bringing their kids in.

Comics are just a lot different these days.  As much as I love them, I don't know that I would hand the majority of the regular titles to a kid - they just aren't written for that audience as much anymore and are often to serious in tone.  Our daughter likes comics (although she can't really read yet), but again, that's because of me I am sure.  There are things out there like the Marvel Adventures (or Johnny DC/DC Kids) titles that she looks at, but I'd say that is the majority of kid friendly comics these days.

Again, as far as "new" readers, that's a tough nut to crack.  I still think there is a sort of stigma attached to comic books for the general public, and many are "embarassed" to be reading something like that.  Things like Graphic Novels, TPBs, and now online options might help that - but it still seems like the industry is going to lose ground overall.  With all the success of comic book movies, and now so many of the characters making it to the big screen, now is the time to try and get new readers and still we see comic shops closing, prices rising, and now extreme measures like the reboot(s) as the companies continue to try and capture a larger audience.  I hope it happens, because I don't want to see comics go away, but it does seem like a tough fight for them once the 30-50 age group that supports much of their business continues to age.

It might not be a popular opinion, but I think the companies could stand to scale back the number of titles a little bit.  Much like collecting, you only have to buy what you like, but the number of titles (especially for a struggling business) is unreal these days.  I think that some condensing will eventually happen if sales don't pick up, but otherwise we might (long term) be headed for a market that really only has regular, ongoing books for the "big guns" and maybe limited series for anything else.  Again, a long time off, but I could see it happening.
Title: Re: Comic Book Thread
Post by: Jeff on August 31, 2011, 10:57 AM
Comics are just a lot different these days.  As much as I love them, I don't know that I would hand the majority of the regular titles to a kid - they just aren't written for that audience as much anymore and are often to serious in tone. 

Yeah, take a look at one of the New 52 Aquaman solicts -  "As Aquaman and Mera discover the grisly truth behind a town's disappearance, the Trench infestation spreads inland! Plus: Another gruesome Trench power revealed – and it's not for the squeamish!"

(http://dccomics.com/media/product/2/0/20639_400x600.jpg)

Not exactly something I feel comfortable handing over to my 5-year old boys (unless I want to be up all night with them dealing with the nightmares they'll be having).  :-\

I'm probably dating myself, but while I read a lot of DC and some Marvel growing up, I started out in comics by reading a LOT of other kid stuff like all the Harvey characters- Hot Stuff, Casper, Richie Rich, Sad Sack, Baby Huey.  A lot of Archie Comics and Disney comics, even some DC non-superhero stuff like Sugar & Spike.

I have sort of the same plan for the boys.  While they know the JLA characters from the various cartoons, I'd never let them read those regular books from DC. Instead I buy them the more kid-friendly books - Batman Brave and Bold, Scooby-Doo, Disney comics, Owly, and some other non-Super Hero stuff.
Title: Re: Comic Book Thread
Post by: P-Siddy on August 31, 2011, 11:41 AM
It might not be a popular opinion, but I think the companies could stand to scale back the number of titles a little bit.  Much like collecting, you only have to buy what you like, but the number of titles (especially for a struggling business) is unreal these days. 

I'm quite surprised by the number of titles myself. I just got back into the comic thing again last year when GI Joe picked up where it left off with RAH. To see that there is also Cobra, Origins, each separate plots from the other. It's crazy.
Title: Re: Comic Book Thread
Post by: Brian on August 31, 2011, 02:20 PM
Yeah, I'm all for supporting lesser known characters/teams - and I know that all of them have their fans and support, but the sheer number of titles these days is astounding.  Again, comparing it to my childhood - going back and looking at the subscription pages in the back of Marvel comics, and the number of titles was just so much lower.  Granted, different world and all that, but many characters (or teams) didn't have titles back then because they couldn't sustain it.  A lot of B and C list heroes get more shots these days it seems, which is good.

When I first got back into comics, I was sort of drawn to the Ultimate universe of stuff.  The first thing I wanted to start reading again was Spider-Man, and at that time, everyone suggested Ultimate Spidey (in its early days).  I read, and enjoyed it, but it always bothered me that it wasn't the "real" Spidey for some reason.  Anyways, I branched into Amazing and then into the further Marvel U (and later DC).  Something that was appealing about the Ultimate Universe was being able to basically have the whole thing covered with four books.  I realize that isn't exactly possible with the larger Marvel (or DC) universe, but I think things could go for some cutting back in some cases.

Quote
And get the subscription option going again...I remember getting so psyched to check the mail.  A subscription could also help offset the high costs, which is really the only barrier for kids.

Actually, subscriptions do still exist - but I'm not sure if many use them.  I subscribe to some Marvel Comics, because I used to live in a more rural area without a comic book store anywhere nearby (and I was unaware of online services at that point).  Anyways, I have just maintained some of those subs since the prices are pretty good ($22 or something for a year's sub I think).  I've cut those back now to just 3 or 4 Marvel titles, and get the rest via SciFiGenre (thanks Jeff for the recommendation).  I also subscribed to a couple DC books for awhile, but they were really slow shipping back when I did that.  My Marvel books tend to come a few days after release (or sometimes before), and never later than a week.  The DC ones were always at least a month for some reason.
Title: Re: Comic Book Thread
Post by: Brian on September 21, 2011, 02:04 PM
So, has anyone jumped into the DCnU - and if so, what do you think?  I've been checking out some of the titles, and have pretty much liked what I've seen so far.  I haven't gotten a chance to read them all, but hope to get to the rest this week.  I really enjoyed the first issue of Justice League.  We'll have to wait and see where it goes, but I'm just glad to see Johns on the JL book - and have that book starring the "big guns".  Jim Lee on art doesn't hurt either.  I also thought both Action and Detective Comics were good, and I'm looking forward to checking out the other Batbooks and GL this week/next.

As far as Flashpoint, which sort of set this all up, I wasn't all that thrilled.  I thought the last issue was one of the better ones, but overall I didn't like it as much as I thought I would.  I usually enjoy pretty much everything Johns writes, but I just couldn't get into this one.  Some of it may have been just the anticipation of the new "relaunch", where we sort of just had to get this story "over with" to get to the new stuff.
Title: Re: Comic Book Thread
Post by: Diddly on September 22, 2011, 01:08 AM
I've been picking up a few of the new #1s but haven't gotten to read much yet. Now that Batman is out I'll probably start on my next day off. I wanted to pick up more of the comics I hadn't reserved, but they sell out quick, and I'll probably have to track down second printings somehow.

I have been reading the Spider Island storyline in Amazing Spider-Man... what a weird, jumbled mess.
Title: Re: Comic Book Thread
Post by: Jeff on September 22, 2011, 10:11 AM
I'm looking forward to checking out the other Batbooks and GL this week/next.

Have you heard about the ending to Catwoman #1 yet, Brian?   I can't wait to see how the comic world in general reacts to that...   :P

I've read a few things and I was really surprised at how much strange blood and gore there is in there (like the ending of Detective Comics #1 or all the GLs getting chopped up and dismembered in GLC).  I'm really not sure what to think.  I thought the point was to get back to the "core of the characters" and make the comics fun again.  I guess I didn't realize there was so much bloody violence at the core of all that "fun".  :-\
Title: Re: Comic Book Thread
Post by: Brian on September 22, 2011, 08:50 PM
Have you heard about the ending to Catwoman #1 yet, Brian?   I can't wait to see how the comic world in general reacts to that...   :P

I haven't read it myself, but saw some of the news online about it today.  It will be interesting to see how that plays.  I've only read a handful of the "new 52" books as well, but I've been a little surprised by all the violence/gore as well.  I understand that a lot of people like that, and I'm not saying they should all be kid books, but it was a little surprising to me as well for an initiative designed to hook in new readers.
Title: Re: Comic Book Thread
Post by: Diddly on October 22, 2011, 02:44 AM
Has anybody been reading the New 52's? I've been posting my thoughts on various issues on my personal blog (linked in my sig... shameless plug) and most of them have been hit or miss to me. My favorite by far is Batman, with Action Comics being in second, I guess. Action always starts off hot but fizzles to a lame end IMO. Wonder Woman is by far the worst of what I've read.

The comic series I've really been digging though? Ultimate Spider-Man with Miles Morales. Great series. Miles is such a likeable character, and you can't hate his sidekick Ganke either. The kid builds LEGOs and wears a Howard the Duck t-shirt for crying out loud!Three issues in and it's just a great story about a kid going through changes, very WEIRD changes, despite wanting to remain shy and normal. Really don't see the hate, although I think most people just hate the idea of Peter Parker being dead.

Also I guess I'll be checking out the new split X-Men series.
Title: Re: Comic Book Thread
Post by: JediJman on October 24, 2011, 05:54 PM
I was a little tempted to jump on with the new DC books, but decided against it.  I did look up the ending to Catwoman #1 though - interesting stuff. 

I've been a bit lost trying to keep up with the Marvel books lately.  They have these grand events (the latest is the Fear Itself Storyline), but they've lost all cohesion for me across the different titles.  I can't tell what order the books should be in or what storylines are overlapping and what the sequence of books should be between Avengers, New Avengers, Avengers Annual, Secret Avengers, Thor, Journey Into Mystery, Iron Man, Iron Man 2.0, Avengers Academy. 

Is anyone else reading these titles and having the same problem?  I link it's just plain lazy that they don't number the titles or at least give you the little indicator that "This story takes place following ______."  I'm starting to think about dumping most of my Marvel titles if this keeps up.  They're just no fun to read when everything is piecemeal and overlapping and you have the same guy on like 4 super teams. 
Title: Re: Comic Book Thread
Post by: Brian on January 5, 2012, 12:28 PM
I was curious, now that we are a few months out from the DC relaunch, how many of the titles have you stuck with?  I have to admit, the relaunch did get me to try out more books than I would normally get, but these (combined with the Marvel stuff) is probably getting to be a little too much to keep up with.  Here's the books I ended up trying out, and I'll hopefully be dropping a few from this list:

Justice League
Batman
Detective Comics
Batman and Robin
Batman: The Dark Knight
Batman Inc.
Batgirl
Nightwing
Action Comics
Superman
Aquaman
Green Lantern
Flash
Wonder Woman
Teen Titans

There are a few on this list that I could probably drop, but I'm sort of giving a chance for a couple more issues, we'll see.  Honestly, much like collecting, it is probably a bit too much.  Storage starts to become an issue here as well, and honestly, I think if I had an iPad I'd switch to digital on a number of them.  Anyways, what are you reading these days?  Sadly, my Marvel list is even longer than this one.
Title: Re: Comic Book Thread
Post by: Jeff on January 5, 2012, 02:10 PM
Here's the list of the ten DCnU titles I started buying with the ones I dropped after month 3 scratched off...  all are still paper comics:

Batman
Detective Comics
Nightwing - I just couldn't get into going back to a "still learning the ropes" version of Dick
Batgirl - see Nightwing reason, but change Dick to Babs
Justice League
Action Comics - like always, I just couldn't get into this version of Superman...
Superman - see Action Comics reason
Flash
Green Lantern
GL Corps - got tired of Tomasi finding new bloody ways to kill random GLs (http://dcu.blog.dccomics.com/files/2011/12/GLCOR_44.jpg) each month

So yeah.  Three months in and my list is down to 5.  To recap:
pre-relaunch = 12-16 DCU titles each month
DCnU relaunch months 1-3 = 10 DCnU titles
now = 5 titles...    but I'm pretty sure I'll drop JLA after this first arc is over (planning on dropping at #7).  Also thinking about switching to digital on the four remaining titles once the initial arcs are over...

I totally get why DC made the reboot/relaunch decision (the number of books they are selling proves it was what they needed to do), but I'm still bummed that 'my' DCU was tossed out in favor of something targeted towards all those COD/Halo kids.

Guess I just have to face facts.  I'm old.  :-[
Title: Re: Comic Book Thread
Post by: Brian on January 5, 2012, 02:28 PM
Funny, I actually started out reading GLC as well, and dropped it for the same reason you listed Jeff.  Your list is much more manageable, and something I should probably move towards at some point.  I need to be as discerning as you.  I'm a big Grayson fan, so I do enjoy Nightwing, although I still feel like he's gotten "demoted" again after his run as Batman.  To me, he's right up there with the big guns of the DCU, and wish he would be treated as such.  I guess I understand why they want to get back to "Bruce is the only Batman", so I'm not sure what other direction they could go.  Some of the parts of their reboot I understand and enjoy, others I don't quite get.  I know it would sacrifice some really great characters in some instances, but I sometimes wonder if they were going to do this anyways if they shouldn't have just gone back to Dick Grayson as Robin and Wally West as Kid Flash or something.  Those two, to me, are the best versions of those characters and instead we get some different versions of Tim Drake and Bart Allen in the Teen Titans book (and Wally still nowhere to be found, which bugs me).

Of the books I listed, I'm thinking of dropping the following either due to quality or just the fact that I need to cut the pull list down a bit:

Batman: The Dark Knight
Superman
Teen Titans
Wonder Woman

I'm on the fence with a few others, so we'll see.  TDK and Superman definitely aren't anything to write home about.  Wonder Woman is very good, but I don't know if I care enough about the character to continue or not.  Teen Titans is just alright I guess, but I think I like the concept more than the actual current book.  I don't know why it is so hard for DC to get that book right.
Title: Re: Comic Book Thread
Post by: Jeff on January 5, 2012, 02:49 PM
Oh yeah, the whole 'Barry and Iris aren't together, so Barry never met Wally" thing is lame.  Total waste of a great character.

Part of me thinks they should have at least had the courtesy to kill off Dick and Wally before Flashpoint.  At least then they could have had proper endings to their stories.  If you're rebooting anyway, then go all in - something like having Dick-Batman sacrifice himself to save Bruce-Batman and Tim in Batman Inc would have been fine.  Then Flashpoint comes along and resets the clock like Dick and Jason never existed and Tim was always the first Robin and now the current Nightwing.  That would have better fit their silly 5-year timeline, though it would have pissed off a lot of people to lose Dick/Jason and their stories completely.

Same with Wally - have him die to save his family in the last few issues of his book, then Flashpoint resets the DCU.  Barry realizes the loss of Wally and Dick cause too much pain so he "forgets" them in the reboot universe.  Opens the door for Tim as first Robin/current Nightwing (no more Red Robin!) and a new Kid Flash in the new DCnU.

There would have been many mad people... but those people are already mad about there being no Wally and a demoted Dick now.  At least this way Wally would have had a nice send off instaed of 'book cancelled, character deleted' ending he got now.
Title: Re: Comic Book Thread
Post by: Brian on January 5, 2012, 06:01 PM
Yeah, that's one of the things that bothers me the most is cramming Dick Grayson, Jason Todd, Tim Drake, and Damian Wayne all being Robin within a 5 year span.  I always liked that Dick had a long term, trusted relationship/partnership with Bruce (and they still write it that way), but I don't see how they really could have with this new timeline.  If this is how they wanted it set up (the five year thing), they probably should have gotten rid of a Robin or two from the new continuity.
Title: Re: Comic Book Thread
Post by: Diddly on January 5, 2012, 07:02 PM
Well I've been reviewing comics, including the New 52 on my blog (http://diddlyscoop.blogspot.com) since about October (END CHEAP, SHAMELESS PLUG) so if anyone is interested in my thoughts, head on over and take a gander.

But my pull list looks a little like this:

Justice League
Batman (my favorite of the New 52s)
Batman and Robin
Detective Comics - Haven't dropped yet, but will soon as the Batman and Batman and Robin blow it out of the water
Batman: The Dark Knight - Absolutely awful, the worst of the New 52 that I've read
Nightwing
Batgirl - Picked up Issue 1 but never any more, just no interest
Batwoman
Green Lantern
The Flash - Might drop, writing stinks but the artwork is beautiful
Wonder Woman - Second worst of the New 52, just a complete mess
Teen Titans
Catwoman - Started out awful but was picking up, dropped solely to save money; might pick it back up
Superman - might be dropping but I hear it's getting a new writer soon so I'll stick with it for now
Action Comics
Aquaman - Second favorite of the New 52

Now remember I only recently started reading comics, hence the large pull list. I'm learning to drop stuff though, and I'll most likely be dropping more DC titles in the near future.

But Batman and Aquaman own, if you aren't reading those then get on it!
Title: Re: Comic Book Thread
Post by: Brian on January 6, 2012, 05:29 PM
There would have been many mad people... but those people are already mad about there being no Wally and a demoted Dick now.  At least this way Wally would have had a nice send off instaed of 'book cancelled, character deleted' ending he got now.

Is that the story with Wally now?  He just isn't there at all in the new DCU?  That really is lame.  It is frustrating because two of the areas of the DCU I care about the most (Batman and Flash) seem to make no sense in some ways.  I understand that they largely left Batman alone, but like we discussed, the whole four Robins in five years just doesn't fit quite right.  I'd really hate to lose Dick Grayson as a character, but otherwise I sort of like Jeff's idea better.  Streamline things a bit and just have a Batman, a Robin, and a Nightwing (or even just Batman and Robin).
Title: Re: Comic Book Thread
Post by: DSJ™ on February 5, 2012, 04:44 PM
DC gives Watchmen a graphic past (http://www.usatoday.com/life/comics/story/2012-02-01/Watchmen-prequel-comic-book-series/52908084/1)

DC COMICS TO PUBLISH "BEFORE WATCHMEN" PREQUELS (http://www.comicbookresources.com/?page=article&id=36724)
Title: Re: Comic Book Thread
Post by: BillCable on February 5, 2012, 05:02 PM
DC is doing a fantastic job of becoming the worst comic publisher in the industry.
Title: Re: Comic Book Thread
Post by: McMetal on February 5, 2012, 08:19 PM
There is no profanity extreme or vulgar enough to fully reflect my outrage over this abomination.

Any professional in comics with a shred of dignity should have nothing to do with this project.

Complete dollar chasing blasphemy.
Title: Re: Comic Book Thread
Post by: BillCable on February 5, 2012, 10:28 PM
I loved Moore's quote (paraphrased here):  "You didn't see any sequels to Moby Dick."
Title: Re: Comic Book Thread
Post by: DSJ™ on February 9, 2012, 04:41 PM
SMALLVILLE TO CONTINUE IN COMIC BOOK FORM (http://www.superherohype.com/news/articles/169535-smallville-to-continue-in-comic-book-form)

Why, the show is done... DC is scraping the barrel...  ::)
Title: Re: Comic Book Thread
Post by: DSJ™ on February 23, 2012, 02:25 AM
Comics trove fetches $3.5M at auction (http://www.usatoday.com/life/comics/story/2012-02-22/rare-comics-auction-nets-millions/53210694/1)

Quote
A copy of Detective Comics No. 27, which sold for 10 cents in 1939 and features the debut of Batman, got the top bid at the New York City auction Wednesday. It sold for about $523,000, including a buyer's premium, said Lon Allen, managing director of comics for Heritage Auctions, the Dallas-based auction house overseeing the sale.

Action Comics No. 1, a 1938 issue featuring the first appearance of Superman, sold for about $299,000; Batman No. 1, from 1940, sold for about $275,000; and Captain America No. 2, a 1941 issue with a frightened Adolf Hitler on the cover, brought in about $114,000, Allen said.
Title: Re: Comic Book Thread
Post by: JediJman on February 23, 2012, 08:18 AM
I saw this on the morning news too.  Pretty amazing find with books like Action Comics #1 and Detective Comics #1.  What a stash.
Title: Re: Comic Book Thread
Post by: Jeff on March 9, 2012, 12:05 PM
Well, this is a big comics week for me.  I finally pulled the trigger and quit...  yep, after 33 years of reading DC Comics, I think I'm finally done. 

I really tried to give this "New 52" whoop-de-do a chance and rode out the first story arcs for my favorite characters, but I'm just not feeling it.  I miss "my" DCU.  :-\

DC's new 52 may be selling gang-busters for them, but it's just not for me I guess.  I remember reading so many of these characters in elementary school, but there is no way I could hand my five-year olds any of these modern DC Comics versions.  Basically, I just got tired of telling my kids "no, even though I know you love Batman, you can't read this".  Better to not even have the damn things in the house I guess.

So, enjoy your "new 52" DCnU, xbox-generation kids!  I'll be over here re-reading the Trial of Barry Allen, Crisis on Infinite Earths, Death in the Family, etc.   :-X
Title: Re: Comic Book Thread
Post by: Brian on March 12, 2012, 12:14 PM
Well, this is a big comics week for me.  I finally pulled the trigger and quit...  yep, after 33 years of reading DC Comics, I think I'm finally done. 

Wow, definitely a big step for a longtime reader (even GL?).  I'm not sure how I feel about the whole "New 52" thing either.  I'm still reading some of the books, but honestly - aside from Aquaman and Batgirl - I don't think there are any titles that I wasn't already reading at some point.  Also, I don't think any of the ones I'm still reading (again, aside from Batgirl) necessarily needed the restart either.  I was enjoying them just fine before (although I'm glad to see the big guns back in the Justice League again).

Overall, I'm still really enjoying reading comics and I'm sure I'll always at least reading Amazing Spider-Man the rest of my life, but - much like collecting - the amount of space (and money) it starts taking up does take its toll as well.  If I had an iPad or something, I could see switching to digital for virtually everything and save the space.  You also make an excellent point on current comics (particularly the new 52 stuff), where things are so crazy violent and often over the top just for the sake of being that way.  Much of DC's new line has a "90s" vibe to it too in some ways.  There's still some really good books out there, but some bad too.

I've been dropping a couple titles here and there, but really should be paring things back even more.  I guess it is the collector mentality kicking in, but sometimes I have a hard time stopping a series when I've been at it for awhile (particularly from a #1).  Dumb, I know, but I know it is there to some extent.  I'm at that crossroads right now with a book like Detective Comics.  It isn't anything special, and I can't say I look forward to it all that much, but I've been reading Detective Comics off and on for quite awhile (as long as Batman was the main character), so it is tougher to stop.  Probably the next to go though.  I think I read about 20 books a month right now, and honestly I should cut that in half.
Title: Re: Comic Book Thread
Post by: JediJman on March 12, 2012, 04:38 PM
I am down to about a dozen monthly titles now, and maybe 5-6 limited series type books a month.  Like Jeff, I've given some serious thought to dropping them all.  I've limited myself to mostly Avengers-Based Marvel titels, Star Wars, Transformers, and Walking Dead, so can't relate to the DC issues as well, but Marvel has their own problems. 

My biggest gripe is the lack of continuity.  Marvel has prioritized marketing over storytelling, which is obviously problematic when you publish books.  I remember reading fun stories about the characters when I was a kid - the conflicts that arose from a dual life as a superhero, relationship issues across the teams, and obviously mixing it up with the bad guys.  One of my favorite storylines ever was the Demon in a Bottle story from Iron Man, when Stark's alcoholism finally gets the best of him and he loses everything.  I love the armors and IM villians, but as I recall, most of that story is just Stark either in a gutter or in a lab, while Rhodes takes over the suit.  And the best part was how the story integrated with the rest of the Marvel U.  Rhodes was the Iron Man sent to the Secret Wars and the Iron Man that founded the West Coast Avengers.  He had to deal with people thinking he was Stark or at least white, which added to the story within a story to make it allso interesting.

Nowadays, the stories don't make sense at all.  I can read about a huge lineup change, then see a totally different lineup represented in another book for months and months beyond that point.  There's no explanation for HUGE shakeups, ranks, or even costume changes.  When did Rogers decide to go back to being Cap? That should have been a big decision, not something just glossed over.  We spent half a year agonizing over who was going to be the new shield bearer when he died, but he apparently quits as head of security and goes back to just another supe between panels.  When and why did Hawkeye change his costume?  He just shows up in several books with a new outfit and no explanation?  Of course, he has the old costume all through his own limited series just finishing up now.  How is Hank Pym fighting crime, mentoring the next generation of Avengers, AND now a part of the Secret Avengers group, where he just whipped together a space station for their new base.  Really?  Give me 12 months of them trying to rebuild the NY mansion after the Masters of Evil beat Jarvis to a pulp.  I get that it's all make believe, but do they really need to suspend the concept of time to tell these stories?  I just think it comes down to lazy storytelling.

And don't even get me started on the marketing BS.  How can Wolverine possibly be in multiple Avengers and X-Men teams?  He's always hanging out at Avengers HQ, but supposedly he's running his own branch of the X-Men now too?  And Spiderman...I guess spiders don't sleep, because there is no other way he can be in that many storylines all at once.  He has how many individual books in addition to being in the new Team-up book, an active member of the Fantastic Four, and at least one Avengers team or the other.  Oh, and every major event in the Marvel U as well.  I'm sure it won't be long until one of those guys are killed and resurrected, just like we've seen with Captain America, Herc, Thor, Ant-Man, Hawkeye, Jocasta, Vision, Bucky, Mockingbird, Elektra, etc. in the last few years.  If you're going to kill someone off, then off them and be done with it, or at least keep them dead for a full 2-3 years.  Its hard to have any concern for these characters anymore - my only real fear for any of them is that they might fall out of popularity and then you'll never hear about them again (where are you Stature, Black Knight, and Photon!?).

The storylines get worse while the price skyrockets.  At $4 an issue, I definitely need to put some serious thought into taking a comic hiatus as well.  Its really a shame that despite all the advancements in the comic industry, the major players can't tell a good story to save their lives (or their businesses). 
Title: Re: Comic Book Thread
Post by: Brian on March 12, 2012, 09:00 PM
I'm more of a Marvel reader as well, but have picked up more DC over the years now too.  I think some of the problem (with many things these days it seems) is that there is just too much out there.  I mean, they know their market and everything better than I do, but when I look back at the issues from when I was a kid - and they list the subscriptions you could get - there would be like 10-20 ongoings that would cover the entire Marvel Universe.  Rarely did a character have more than one book (other than big names like Spidey, Batman, or Superman), and you could basically pick up the entire universe in 10 books or so (maybe a little more).  I think that made it easier to have things line up to some extent.  Obviously, putting Wolvie and Spidey on every team doesn't help either - but in some cases I can see why they do it too.

I'm fine with a character having a solo book and being part of one team - when it stretches to two, three teams, it starts to strain believability a bit.  I'm a huge Spidey fan, and pretty much pick up everything he is in (and enjoy it), but it does seem silly when he's in so many teams at once.  Things are scaling down a bit now (he's only on one Avengers team, and may be more of a supporting character in F4 now that Torch is back), and honestly I'd rather have it that way.

It may just be me, but I prefer things to be simplified a bit.  I'm sure it doesn't make as much sense in today's retail environment, but I find I feel that way with action figures, comics, movies, etc.  There is just so much of everything, which I guess is good so that there is more variety for all different people, but I guess I miss the days of seeing a movie be "the" movie of the year - the one that everyone sees and talks about (and stays in the theaters for a year or more).  Also years of keeping up with an action figure line and not having to buy 60-80 figures a year, or the comics example from earlier.  A different time I guess.

I will say though, overall, I still enjoy a lot of the stories in comics today.  They aren't all great of course, but there's still some good stuff out there.  Of the books I read, I think things like Batman (Scott Snyder), Daredevil (Mark Waid), Wolverine and the X-Men (Jason Aaron), Amazing Spider-Man (Dan Slott), and Fantastic Four (Jonathan Hickman) are all very well done right now - and I've always enjoyed pretty much everything by Geoff Johns.
Title: Re: Comic Book Thread
Post by: JediJman on March 13, 2012, 12:52 PM
I'm more of a Marvel reader as well, but have picked up more DC over the years now too.  I think some of the problem (with many things these days it seems) is that there is just too much out there.  I mean, they know their market and everything better than I do, but when I look back at the issues from when I was a kid - and they list the subscriptions you could get - there would be like 10-20 ongoings that would cover the entire Marvel Universe.  Rarely did a character have more than one book (other than big names like Spidey, Batman, or Superman), and you could basically pick up the entire universe in 10 books or so (maybe a little more).  I think that made it easier to have things line up to some extent.  Obviously, putting Wolvie and Spidey on every team doesn't help either - but in some cases I can see why they do it too.

I hear that on there just being a lot of different books, but it's not as different as you may remember it to be.  I thought about this a little and went back to my old Marvel subscriptions...

In the same month I was buying Spectacular Spiderman, Amazing Spiderman, and Web of Spiderman.  They went bi-weekly on all 3 titles for a while, so that's essentially 6 Spiderman books a month plus anything else he might guest star in (annuals, limited series, etc.).  If you go back and read those stories, they all align pretty well - in a lot of cases they actually told one story throughout the multiple titles.

Then I looked at my Avengers books.  Again, in the same month I was buying Avengers, West Coast Avengers, Solo Avengers, Iron Man, Thor, and Captain America.  Solo Avengers typically involved stories outside the core plot, but the other 5 books all worked in tandem.  When Iron Man moved out West, you saw reference to in the Avengers title, it was a main story in the WCA, and it was part of the Iron Man title all at once.  When Rhodey is Iron Man, you see the toll it takes on him in WCA, Avengers, and the Secret Wars limited series all at once.  That's 6 titles in each case that had well managed continuity on a monthly basis. 

Right now we have maybe 6 books with Spiderman in there (Including Avengers and FF) and 4 Avengers books (New, Mighty, Secret, Academy).  Thor and Iron Man never really tie back to the Avengers stories anymore outside of the big events - not sure about Cap as I stopped reading that after he returned.  Not maintaining a similar balance in this day and age is just plain lazy. 

I'll grant you that there are more titles, so an expanded continuity to keep track of, but that would be less of a problem if you didn't have all the old X-Men joining the ranks of the Avengers or Spiderman limited to maybe just one superteam.  I think the crossover crap is just marketing to get you to buy other books - there's no real need for the Thing to be on the Avengers and FF or for Wolverine to be in every Marvel title published.  I'm going to give this fall's Avengers vs. X-Men crossover a chance, then determine whether or not I want to be done with Marvel books.  Can't wait to see the "Avengers" including Wolvie, Beast, and Storm fight the X-Men.   ::)
Title: Re: Comic Book Thread
Post by: Brian on March 13, 2012, 09:08 PM
I totally agree, I like to see everything "line up" as much as possible too....and although we've been seeing the multiple teams thing for awhile now, it does begin to stretch believability a bit.  I guess they know what sells though.  I like a more simplified universe (not that I have to buy them all of course), with maybe a few less books.  I'm fine with each of the "big" franchises having two books at most (although I see why X-Men maybe gets more).  If you look now, things like Avengers and X-Men are the ones that are really getting out of control.  You have:

Avengers
New Avengers
Secret Avengers
Avengers Academy
Avengers Assemble

Uncanny X-Men
X-Men
Wolverine and the X-Men
X-Force
Astonishing X-Men
X-Men Legacy
New Mutants
X-Factor
Age of Apocalypse

And that's not even including the individual characters that have their own titles.  That, to me, is getting a bit out of hand.  I can see having two "main" books for franchises like that, and maybe a "teen" book if it is applicable.  X-Men is a little different beast in some ways, because things like X-Force and X-Factor really have their own niche that is fairly different from the regular X-books (and both have their fanbases).  I have a feeling there is going to be a big shakeup with the Avengers books (and maybe X-Men and everything else) post AvX.  Rumors are swirling of creators changing books or even a possible DC-like relaunch, so we'll see how Marvel looks by the end of the year.

I'm curious how long DC sticks with their reboot.  I'm sure they will, because it is new and it is selling well, but they've already sort of given themselves a backdoor with this Pandora character that has been appearing (and had a backup in the recent JL issue).

It is interesting, because if they are turning off even longtime DC fans like Jeff, it can't bode well for the future of things.  Just out of curiosity Jeff, did you stick with at least GL - in books or online?  Also, I echo Jeff's earlier point about comics really not being "for kids" anymore.  I know that isn't the audience that comes into stores, but it is supposedly the one they are after (new readers) and I don't think they'll get there with only the "kiddie" titles.  I started into comics at around age 5 and read into HS before getting back shortly after college, and I never remember having a comics that either felt like it talked down to me or was too gruesome/scary for a kid to read.  Maybe it was just the characters I wanted to follow back then, but it doesn't seem that way quite as much these days (again, depending on the character I guess).
Title: Re: Comic Book Thread
Post by: JediJman on March 13, 2012, 10:25 PM
I can't imagine they're really targeting kids anymore.  Would be interesting to see who the core demographic target is though.  My mom ordered me a subscription in 3rd grade to boost my reading skills and by the time I Was in high school I was up to 15-20 books a month.  But back then, comics were $.75 to $1.00 each.  I could afford to throw down $20 or $30 a month on comics.  These days, the books are at least $3 and most are $4.  That same level of collecting would cost a kid $80 today...I just can't see any of the teens I know dropping that kind of cash on comics. 

They're also much harder for kids to get.  You can't get a subscription anymore.  I suppose you can order over the internet, but in most cases that's going to require a subscription.  I remember getting hooked on additional titles like Micronauts and New Mutants because I'd look at them in the grocery store or at the mall.  Those outlets don't seem to carry comics anymore for some reason.

Good point on the simplified universe.  Would be interesting to see Marvel or DC shrink back a bit and dump their current business model in favor of something closer to what we had as kids.  Write some really great stories on the most popular characters, use lower quality material, drop the price back down to $2.50 and get distribution of core titles back out to where kids can browse through them.  I don't see any reason why Walmart & Target shouldn't carry them - I'm sure they'd sell better than the 15 auto mechanic or body builder magazines they offer.  I'm glad I still have a lot of my old stuff from when I was a kid in case my children have an interest.  I'd much rather have them reading those stories than the stuff we're getting now.
Title: Re: Comic Book Thread
Post by: Phrubruh on March 14, 2012, 09:46 AM
It does seem weird that comic books are not sold at regular retail stores. I see them at TRU but they are pretty out of date usually. There are no comic book stores anymore within thirty miles of me which is weird since I don't exactly live in the woods. Its a high population area and yet there are no comic book stores. How do publishers sell their books?

I've had a scription with scifigen.com  for a while to get books sent to me. That has worked but its wierd that you can't just get a straight subscription from Marvel or DC. I guess they live off of movie and toy licenses.
Title: Re: Comic Book Thread
Post by: Brian on March 14, 2012, 10:24 AM
I've had a scription with scifigen.com  for a while to get books sent to me. That has worked but its wierd that you can't just get a straight subscription from Marvel or DC. I guess they live off of movie and toy licenses.

I can't speak of DC, but Marvel does still have a subscription service.  I had/have a number of titles through them since I used to live in an area that didn't have a comic book store within an hour's drive.  I've since let a lot of them run out and switched almost fully over to SciFiGenre.com, but they do still have a subscription service through Marvel.  I know I currently get Amazing Spidey that way (since that was the one I started with), and our daughter gets Marvel Adventures Spidey that way as well.  I think subs run like $22 for a year (or 12 issues, whatever is first I guess), and we usually get them within a week after the store release.

I've never understood why there aren't more retail options to get comics too.  Our TRU also has a small section, and seems reasonably up to date (within a month or so), but the selection is small and sporadic it seems.  Still nice to see.  I understand that it is a different world these days, but when I was a kid (prior to subscriptions) I got the majority of my comics from the local (small town) drug store.  They always had a pretty good selection, and that's where the majority of my comics came from.
Title: Re: Comic Book Thread
Post by: BillCable on March 14, 2012, 10:44 AM
I don't think most retailers want to worry about unsold stock.  If a comic is a month old, it's never going to sell at retail.  And comics aren't like magazines, where the same books are produced each month year-after-year.  As such they're more difficult to manage, and you'd need to dedicate resources to making sure you buy the right number of each issue.  And you need to make sure you don't buy anything you'll get in trouble over.  And to do it properly you need to dedicate a bunch of space to it.  Thus they rightly conclude it's not worth the effort.
Title: Re: Comic Book Thread
Post by: Qui-Gon Jim on March 14, 2012, 11:31 AM
Most retailers don't manage magazines though.  There are news services dedicated to it. 

This discussion reminds me of my youth, going to the drug store to get new comics.  I remember that my mother's store of choice did not carry GI Joe, so I would have to regularly plead for trips to a different store to get my Joe on.
Title: Re: Comic Book Thread
Post by: BillCable on March 14, 2012, 12:43 PM
There's your million dollar idea, then - comic services.   ;)
Title: Re: Comic Book Thread
Post by: JediJman on March 14, 2012, 02:12 PM
I believe comics would fall under DSD (Direct Store Delivery).  Some of the bigger book store chains have them, and that's how they do it.  Categories across the store use this to manage, stock, and straighten up shelf presence without dedicating their own people.  I know Snack Chips, Soda, Bread all use a DSD service.  With DSD, you don't need to do anything other than code the UPCs into the system - an outside vendor takes care of deliverying and stocking the merchandise for you.  I think I've even seen these people managing the greeting cards section, which wouldn't be all that different from managing comics.  You may have some issues with coding in limited series issues, but maybe that means you don't carry them.  Lord knows I would rather they just plug those stories into the main titles versus restarting the count on new titles all the time.  (I'm looking at you Transformers).

As for unsaleables, I thought magazine and comic companies used to absorb those costs if the comics were unsold?  Maybe Marvel and DC moved away from that, but I think that's how they still handle magazines that are out of date.  That limits the risk to retailers, even if they end up absorbing some of the cost.

I don't subscribe to the space issue though.  TRU has a silly layout for their comics that ends up getting them all torn and disorganized at my local stores.  Just get a wire rack that spins like you'd find at B&N...I'm sure Borders has lots of them for sale cheap.   ;)  That doesn't take any added space from the aisle and you can move it wherever you like in the store.  I just think it's a lost opportunity for retailers and the industry.  I'd much rather buy my kids a comic than these crap Mighty Beans or Fighter Pods.  If you can sell a lego minifigure for $4, you can sell a full length comic book.
Title: Re: Comic Book Thread
Post by: BillCable on March 14, 2012, 02:52 PM
My friend used to do that for Utz chips.  There was still a ton of work to be done by the retailer.  Most of his job was to go to each store and try to talk them into featuring his chips on an end cap or doing sales or letting him set up displays in the aisles.  There were a lot of hands-on negotiations which required store managers to know the product and how well it was selling.  That kind of model for comics would be rough.
Title: Re: Comic Book Thread
Post by: efranks on March 14, 2012, 03:27 PM
I think I've even seen these people managing the greeting cards section, which wouldn't be all that different from managing comics.

Target runs like this, I believe.  My local store has someone that does all the trading cards and they're also the same people that do greeting cards.  It's been the same people for years now.  I see them every couple of weeks.

It would seem like TRU would be a no-brainer for comic books since there are so many ties to toy lines they carry.  But I've never paid much attention to the selection when I've been in stores.  I forget they're there, I forget where the stores have them and if I don't notice them when I walk by, I'll sometimes leave the store without ever looking them over.

   E...
Title: Re: Comic Book Thread
Post by: name on March 15, 2012, 10:28 AM
When I was a kid collecting spider-man books in the eighties and early nineties, all of my current issues came from the grocery store, or the drug store.  Would set aside my buy list, then browse and read the other titles I was interested in or that were crossing over stories until mom was done buying groceries.

$0.75 an issue, too.  Don't remember how much a MAD Magazine was at the time, but it was a monthly purchase for me, too.  *Sigh.*
Title: Re: Comic Book Thread
Post by: McMetal on March 15, 2012, 10:40 AM
So is anyone reading this "Saga" thing I read about on CNN this morning? Some fanboy was wetting himself over it...I'm skeptical, but the art does look fantastic.
Title: Re: Comic Book Thread
Post by: JediJman on March 15, 2012, 03:04 PM
So is anyone reading this "Saga" thing I read about on CNN this morning? Some fanboy was wetting himself over it...I'm skeptical, but the art does look fantastic.

Any more information on it?  I've never heard of it.
Title: Re: Comic Book Thread
Post by: efranks on March 15, 2012, 03:34 PM
Bunch of guys over on Twitter have been talking about it this week but I had to look it up (http://www.tfaw.com/Comics/Profile/Saga-1___399600).  It's from Image comics and I now recall seeing the cover art but thought this was something that had come out a while ago.

It's from Brian K Vaughan who did Y: The Last Man.  It sounds like an interesting plot.  The guys on Twitter that have read it already said it was good and that the art was outstanding.

   E...
Title: Re: Comic Book Thread
Post by: JediJman on March 15, 2012, 03:44 PM
Thanks for the link.  Pass.
Title: Re: Comic Book Thread
Post by: Matt_Fury on April 29, 2012, 12:37 AM
I have a question for anyone who has been reading the Batman comics for a while.

I was watching an older episode of The Big Bang Theory the other day and Sheldon was in an argument about Batman and Joe Shill.  I always thought that Batman (in the comics) never knew the identity of his parents' killer and that was the driving factor to seek justice for Gotham because his parents never received justice.

I always thought Joe Shill was created strictly for the Chris Nolan movies.  Has there been some sort of change to Batman's backstory that I didn't know about?
Title: Re: Comic Book Thread
Post by: Brian on May 7, 2012, 12:52 PM
This might be a long shot, but for anyone who went to their local Free Comic Book Day event this weekend - did you happen to get extras of any of the books (the Star Wars Han/Chewie adventure in particular).  We were going to hit our local store prior to seeing Avengers, but when we got there the line was so long we would have missed the movie.  We stopped afterwards, but they were all out aside from the GL Animated/Young Justice one.  My daughter really wanted to get the Star Wars comic (not to mention the Marvel and DC releases), so I felt bad that we missed out.  I've been checking ebay as well, but I just thought I'd check here if anyone for some reason happened to get an extra.
Title: Re: Comic Book Thread
Post by: JediJman on May 7, 2012, 04:50 PM
Hey Brian - I stopped in with my kids and got doubles of a few things.  I am pretty sure I have a spare Star Wars and Avengers among others if you need 'em.  Don't pay for them - I hate that someone out there is selling their FREE COMICS for profit.  Goes against what this day is supposed to be all about.

Title: Re: Comic Book Thread
Post by: BillCable on May 22, 2012, 09:16 AM
"Major" DC comic character to come out of the closet (http://www.dailymail.co.uk/news/article-2147928/Is-Batman-gay-Major-DC-Comics-character-come-closet.html)

The obvious choice would be Batman.  As Grant Morrison says, "Gayness is built into Batman. I’m not using gay in the pejorative sense, but Batman is very, very gay. There’s just no denying it. (http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2012/04/26/batman-gay-grant-morrison-superhero-comics_n_1456878.html)"  But I think there's too much money to be lost with a gay Batman.  I'm betting it'll be Flash.
Title: Re: Comic Book Thread
Post by: Phrubruh on May 22, 2012, 09:29 AM
It's Wonder Woman. She hooks up with Bat Woman.
Title: Re: Comic Book Thread
Post by: BillCable on May 22, 2012, 10:11 AM
That's sales gold right there, my friend.
Title: Re: Comic Book Thread
Post by: BillCable on June 1, 2012, 09:31 AM
Green Lantern is gay (http://www.nypost.com/p/news/national/dc_comics_green_lantern_to_be_revealed_Yt2uNktuzmrrWSbkIRIDbO)

This is the original GL, not Hal Jordan.  So I don't know if that's a "major" a character as they original teased.
Title: Re: Comic Book Thread
Post by: Jayson on June 1, 2012, 10:34 AM
And Jeff's head just exploded.
Title: Re: Comic Book Thread
Post by: JediJman on June 2, 2012, 07:40 AM
It's Wonder Woman. She hooks up with Bat Woman.

This would have been sooooo much better.  Better yet, make it Power Girl.   ;)

Green Lantern?  Sorry Jeff - DC feels like it's being run by TMZ.
Title: Re: Comic Book Thread
Post by: Jeff on June 2, 2012, 11:52 PM
And Jeff's head just exploded.

Hey, I got off the DC "New 52" crazy train back in March.  They can do whatever they want, it's just another in a long line of decisions that dumps all over the continuity that I grew up loving.  This whole "New 52" business just proved that I am no longer who they want to be buying comics, so I complied and quit.

I'm much happier reading my giant back-log of books, the ones where Wally West (and his wife and kids and his history as Kid Flash and The Flash) still exists.  The one where Dick's best friend was Wally West and where they grew up together in the Teen Titans and they (along with the other titans - Aqualad, Speedy) grew into their own heroes/legacy.  The one where it makes sense how Bruce Wayne could have churned through 4 different Robins and actually have it make sense.  ETc ETc ETc.
Title: Re: Comic Book Thread
Post by: Brian on June 12, 2012, 09:11 PM
I've been sticking with some of the "new 52" (primarily Batman stuff, and a few others), but I can understand why many don't.  For many of the books, the "feel" just isn't the same - and Jeff mentioning the whole Dick Grayson/Wally West thing brings up one of my biggest problems with it as well.  I actually started re-reading the old "New Teen Titans" by Wolfman/Perez from the 80s after reading this thread and thinking about it the other day.  Some of the DC stuff is still good, but some of it seems to be trying awfully hard to be "hip" (or whatever the hip word for hip is these days).  Looking at the recent solicits, and seeing the cover to Green Lantern #0 is an example of that:

(http://i.newsarama.com/images/gl_cv0_previews_final2_02.jpg)

I trust Johns as a writer, and I'm sure it will be good, but the cover just looks like "he's got a mask, and tattoos, and a gun!"  Although some of it was unknown or confusing to me as I grew up more of a Marvel reader, I still miss the old DC.  Jeff mentioned some of my biggest problems with things too....the Robin(s) situation, Wally West, etc.
Title: Re: Comic Book Thread
Post by: Jeff on June 12, 2012, 09:52 PM
Ooh - it's Kick Ass the Arab Green Lantern - with a gun!  He's got the damned most powerful weapon in the whole DCU on his right hand, but he still packs a gun in the other just to show you he means business!!!  AWSOMEZZZ!~!!

So glad I quit the nu52DCU when I did...   ::)  ::)  ::)
Title: Re: Comic Book Thread
Post by: McMetal on June 29, 2012, 09:02 AM
So...as much as I loathe the entire concept, curiosity got the better of me and bought a couple of the Before Watchmen comics...Nite Owl and The Comedian. I guess there are other out but I probably already missed them.

The Comedian story was absurd...hanging with the Kennedys murdering Marilyn Monroe, whateves.

Liked the Nite Owl story a lot more, seemed much more in tune with the original spirit and look of the Watchmen. JMS always delivers the goods.

The bonus pirate tales stuff is a nice touch as well. I guess I will pick up the rest of these but I hope that is the end of it and they let this franchise rest in peace. I do not want to see Watchmen 2 a few years from now. Unless Alan Moore and Dave Gibbons are running that show...
Title: Re: Comic Book Thread
Post by: Jayson on July 3, 2012, 01:27 PM
Looks like Marvel is getting into the reboot game (http://geek-news.mtv.com/2012/07/03/marvel-now-reevolution/?xrs=share_twitter)
Title: Re: Comic Book Thread
Post by: Rob on July 3, 2012, 02:08 PM
Link came up dead for me... what was it?
Title: Re: Comic Book Thread
Post by: Phrubruh on July 3, 2012, 02:11 PM
Well Mtv has been dead to me since the late '80s.
Title: Re: Comic Book Thread
Post by: Jayson on July 3, 2012, 02:30 PM
Link came up dead for me... what was it?

Looks like they removed it. Here is a different link (http://www.itsadansworld.net/2012/07/marvel-reevolution-one-big-marvel.html) with an image
Title: Re: Comic Book Thread
Post by: Brian on July 3, 2012, 02:32 PM
http://www.newsarama.com/comics/marvel-now-reevolution-uncanny-avengers.html (http://www.newsarama.com/comics/marvel-now-reevolution-uncanny-avengers.html)

It looks like there will be some Comic Con announcements, as this is part of EW's SDCC preview (which I just got in the mail today).  It just has that one piece of Quesada art (that is shown in the article), and announces a handful of series: Uncanny Avengers (by Remender, with Cap, Wolvie, Rogue, Havok, etc.), a new twice shipping Avengers book (by Hickman, with a roster of 18), and All New X-Men (Bendis, involving the original five X-Men time traveling to current time or something like that.  Sounds like some books will be getting new number 1s (which happens all the time anyways), but it won't be a reboot like DC did with the new 52.  From recent rumors, it sounds like there will be a number of creative team changes with the Marvel books, post A vs X.

UPDATED: Sounds like it is Marvel confirmed, all of this is part of Marvel NOW! initiative.
Title: Re: Comic Book Thread
Post by: JediJman on July 3, 2012, 05:41 PM
http://www.newsarama.com/comics/marvel-now-reevolution-uncanny-avengers.html (http://www.newsarama.com/comics/marvel-now-reevolution-uncanny-avengers.html)

It looks like there will be some Comic Con announcements, as this is part of EW's SDCC preview (which I just got in the mail today).  It just has that one piece of Quesada art (that is shown in the article), and announces a handful of series: Uncanny Avengers (by Remender, with Cap, Wolvie, Rogue, Havok, etc.), a new twice shipping Avengers book (by Hickman, with a roster of 18), and All New X-Men (Bendis, involving the original five X-Men time traveling to current time or something like that.  Sounds like some books will be getting new number 1s (which happens all the time anyways), but it won't be a reboot like DC did with the new 52.  From recent rumors, it sounds like there will be a number of creative team changes with the Marvel books, post A vs X.

UPDATED: Sounds like it is Marvel confirmed, all of this is part of Marvel NOW! initiative.

I'm totally confused by this.  Is the Uncanny Avengers an in continuity book?  Same with Avengers?  The cover shown looks like movie/Ultimates characters, but the article references AvsX, which is part of the mainline continuity.  I don't see any logical reason why Cap and thor would join the X-Men...that's ridiculous.  Is Phoenix going to rewrite part of history or something goofy like that?  Hate Hate Hate this idea.  Why can't they go back to the 80's style of character building and fighting soemthing less than world shattering, universe-threatening events?  Might be time to wrap up the comic subscriptions.

I'm far more excited about the continuation of Marvel Transformers with Transformers Regeneration...
Title: Re: Comic Book Thread
Post by: Brian on July 3, 2012, 08:50 PM
A lot more info to come at SDCC I'm sure, but from what I understand is that "Uncanny Avengers" is a combo book - not sure if there is two factions (Avengers and X-Men) or if it is some sort of new team with both Avengers and X-Men included.  They have a little more detailed information available at EW now:

http://popwatch.ew.com/2012/07/03/marvel-now-jean-grey-exclusive/ (http://popwatch.ew.com/2012/07/03/marvel-now-jean-grey-exclusive/)

Here's what the mentioned about Uncanny Avengers:

Remender describes this as “a bridge book, something that can delve into both worlds. It has a natural purpose for existing after AvX, where we can focus on human-mutant relations. The broad strokes are: Captain America comes out of AvX and recognizes that he hasn’t done enough to help the mutants.” The book will be drawn by John Cassaday, and will include heavy-hitters like Cap, Thor, and Wolverine, but Remender is also excited to focus on some less well-known characters, like Cyclops’ little brother Havok. “Havok’s always been the black sheep rock-and-roller of the Summers family. He can’t do that anymore. You’re going to see Havok become one of the biggest players in the Marvel Universe.”

There is a bit more at the link.  I think all of these three books (Uncanny Avengers, Avengers, and All New X-Men) are supposed to be in continuity - although the X-Men book (by Bendis) is a bit of a wild card because it involves the original team traveling to the current timeline (a way of bringing Jean Grey back, as well as younger versions of the others).  Not sure if the "regular" versions are around as well, or if they are replacing them, or what.  Also, I did read that the preview image making the rounds (by Joe Quesada) is not any particular team, more of a promo for the whole "Marvel NOW!" initiative.  They are very specific to say it is not a reboot, but a sort of relaunch with books launching from Oct to Feb.
Title: Re: Comic Book Thread
Post by: Rob on July 12, 2012, 03:09 PM
So if anyone is interested... Comic Store Heroes (http://www.wired.com/geekmom/2012/07/comic-store-heroes/) premieres tomorrow on Nat Geo.

I normally wouldn't be too concerned with this, but one of the guys who the show follows around (Thor) is a good friend of mine.
Title: Re: Comic Book Thread
Post by: P-Siddy on July 12, 2012, 04:37 PM
I shop there!  I was there yesterday and they were promoting it with signs, etc.  One had Thor on it (no, not the Avenger, Rob's friend).
Title: Re: Comic Book Thread
Post by: Brian on July 31, 2012, 02:41 PM
Ooh - it's Kick Ass the Arab Green Lantern - with a gun!  He's got the damned most powerful weapon in the whole DCU on his right hand, but he still packs a gun in the other just to show you he means business!!!  AWSOMEZZZ!~!!

So glad I quit the nu52DCU when I did...   ::)  ::)  ::)

Just touching on the whole new GL thing again...they've announced his name, and it is....

Baz

http://www.newsarama.com/comics/new-green-lanterns-name.html (http://www.newsarama.com/comics/new-green-lanterns-name.html)

They could have pretty much named him Badazz, as they seem to be getting Extreeeme with the whole thing anyway.
Title: Re: Comic Book Thread
Post by: name on August 1, 2012, 03:04 PM
(http://i.newsarama.com/images/gl_13_02.jpg)

Is he wearing a Mexican wrestling mask?

The Green Luchador?
Title: Re: Comic Book Thread
Post by: BillCable on August 1, 2012, 03:09 PM
Nacho Verde!
Title: Re: Comic Book Thread
Post by: Brian on August 2, 2012, 02:18 PM
So, has anyone here been sticking with the New 52 stuff at all?  I know even Jeff had dropped out of it a few weeks back, and I was wondering what everyone else thought.  I've enjoyed some of it (Batman in particular, which really didn't need a "reboot"), but some of the other stuff I've just had a hard time staying interested in.  I do like the GL book for the most part, although I'm not sure what to think of this new guy and what that means.  I've been stringing along with some of the other titles thinking "I'll just finish this storyline", but it may be time to cut the cord on a lot of it.  I need to cut back the number of comics I read anyway, storing them all (not to mention spending money on them) is getting a bit out of hand.
Title: Re: Comic Book Thread
Post by: John C on August 9, 2012, 06:56 PM
Been picking up the new Valiant stuff, I like it so far but it's too bad they no longer have the rights to the Gold Key guys.  Also came back to DC for the new 52.  Some of it is good, some is ok, most is ugly.  I like Action Comics, Batman and Batman and Robin.  Aquaman, GL and the LSH has been ok, probably stick with those.  Been reading JLA just because of Captain Marvel, they should have put him on his own Earth IMO.  I picked up the Earth 2 book and the World's Finest one, probably will drop them soon though.  This universe will probably only go another year or so then they will retcon it.
Title: Re: Comic Book Thread
Post by: Brian on August 22, 2012, 10:23 AM
Move over Lois....the DCU changes continue:

Superman's New Squeeze (http://www.newsarama.com/comics/superman-and-wonder-woman-love.html)
Title: Re: Comic Book Thread
Post by: Brian on December 11, 2012, 02:29 PM
Anyone here sticking with any of the "New 52" stuff at DC?  I'll admit I've been reading (and enjoying) some of it, but wasn't thrilled with this recent news that Gail Simone has been essentially fired off of the Batgirl comic.  I always enjoyed her writing (particularly with Babs), and am a fan of the Barbara Gordon Batgirl, not sure why they would make this move.  From what I've seen from her twitter posts, she seemed surprised as well.  Other than that, some quality books, Batman in particular has been pretty amazing I think.  I've been disappointed in the Superman books, and have dropped all of them at this point (just doesn't feel like Superman to me).  I'm still trying to cut back on comics and get out of the mindset of buying books just because of the character, regardless of the writer/artist and/or story.  I could save quite a bit of money if I could do that.

On the Marvel side of things, I've really been liking a lot of the Marvel NOW stuff (although it is just getting started).  Most everything I've picked up has been pretty great between the Avengers and X-Men books, as well as F4.  I'm not so sure about the direction they are going with Spidey right now (I won't discuss details for the spoiler sensitive), but hopefully it works its way out soon.  Overall, still reading too many comic books :).
Title: Re: Comic Book Thread
Post by: JediJman on December 11, 2012, 05:18 PM
I've resisted all of the new DC stuff - was a little tempted to try some of it, but like you I feel like I've already got too many titles coming in already.  I have yet to finish off the AvX storylines or read any of the new Marvel Now stuff, but I'm hopefull based on what I've heard thus far.
Title: Re: Comic Book Thread
Post by: Jeff on December 11, 2012, 05:33 PM
I've been tempted to pick up the nu52 Snyder Court of Owls Batman stuff (either digital or trade), but just haven't done it yet.  Depending on the end reviews of the overal story, I may pick up the latest Joker story too (despite hating the Joker's new look  ::)).

And I still miss Wally West.   :-\
Title: Re: Comic Book Thread
Post by: Diddly on December 26, 2012, 01:08 PM
I've dropped all of the New 52 except Batman, Batman and Robin, Justice League and Aquaman

So Amazing Spider-Man #700 drops today, which is the "final" issue to set up the rebooted Superior Spider-Man... lame SWERVE to "end" the series, if you haven't read about it already ::)
Title: Re: Comic Book Thread
Post by: Jayson on December 26, 2012, 02:49 PM
New Spidey is lame  ::)
Title: Re: Comic Book Thread
Post by: McMetal on December 27, 2012, 08:35 AM
I read about this Spider Man thing last night for the first time and it disgusts me, I'm not gonna lie. I'm glad I'm way past done with that book.

I swear to God, out of all artistic media, comic book writers have the LEAST respect for history and the sanctity of their franchises. They're a callow, soulless lot that will trawl out any old despicable piece of trash for the sake of making a quick buck. Anyone involved with this book should be ashamed of themselves. (And I've lost count of how many times I have said that over the past 10 years)

I honestly believe this is just some sick, perverted ploy to have you-know-who get into MJ's pants. This is almost as bad as that Gwen Stacey/Hobgoblin thing I heard about a few years back. Is nothing sacred?

Title: Re: Comic Book Thread
Post by: Neal on December 27, 2012, 12:02 PM
OK, I'll ask:  what's going to happen in Spider-Man #700?
Title: Re: Comic Book Thread
Post by: JediJman on December 27, 2012, 02:03 PM
OK, I'll ask:  what's going to happen in Spider-Man #700?

Spoiler Alert!

Apparently Doc Ock figures out a way to switch bodies with Peter Parker.  Pete gets trapped in Otto's body and dies. Otto lives on in Peter's body with his powers, but the catch is that he experiences all of Peter's history and has all his memories, so the transition makes Otto want to be a hero like Peter, or actually better than Peter to make up for what he's done.  Hence the end of Amazing Spiderman and the start of the new Superior Spiderman series.  Peter's essence is still trapped in his body...I give it about a year for him to regain control.
Title: Re: Comic Book Thread
Post by: Diddly on December 27, 2012, 02:47 PM
And apparently the first few issues of Superior Spider-Man is Spider-Otto hooking up with Mary Jane, but the catch is that he's using Peter's body to trick her and thus it's rape

 ::) ::) ::)
Title: Re: Comic Book Thread
Post by: Neal on December 27, 2012, 03:24 PM
Damn.  I'm sorry I asked.
Thanks, guys.
Title: Re: Comic Book Thread
Post by: Brian on December 27, 2012, 09:02 PM
Well, since we've had the spoiler tag already....I haven't gotten my copy of 700 yet, but have the jist of what happens from all the online chatter.  Needless to say, I'm not too happy either.  I know things will likely get back to the status quo eventually, but to me, if it isn't Peter Parker (and I mean real Peter Parker), it isn't Spidey.

I'm usually fairly open minded about comic book changes, or at least trying something new, because I understand that these characters have been around 40, 50, 60 plus years, and you have to do something different sometimes.  So many stories have been told so many different ways already.  From that standpoint, I understand what they're doing.  And, again, I'm sure it will go back to normal eventually.  I just find it sad that you can't buy a single book at Marvel now, whether it is Ultimate Comics Spidey, Amazing (now Superior) Spidey, Avengers, team up books, etc. and find Peter Parker.  They killed him in the Ultimate U, and now in the regular Marvel U, happy 50th birthday Spider-Man!

Like I said, I'm usually pretty open minded/positive about things, but I can't say I like this too much.  Plus, the further it gets into various relationships (MJ in particular), the creepier it gets.  I'm a nearly lifelong fan/reader of Spider-Man (my first comic was Amazing Spider-Man at age 5), he is my favorite pop culture character, but the main reason for that is the man behind the mask (Pete).  I'll miss that aspect of things, and hope it returns sooner rather than later.  It is a shame really, because I've really been digging a lot of the Marvel NOW stuff otherwise, but my favorite character they decide to kill off.
Title: Re: Comic Book Thread
Post by: Scockery on December 28, 2012, 11:06 AM
Strange way to end a 700 issue series.

I predict that within a year, the Punisher kills  this possessed Spider-Man and takes his place as Spider-Punisher, leading to some confusion as to whether his intent is to punish arachnids or criminals.

Then Peter Parker is cloned back to life with the memories of himself and Dr. Doom for some reason.

Title: Re: Comic Book Thread
Post by: BillCable on December 28, 2012, 11:09 AM
Wait a minute... so everyone didn't WANT a non-wisecracking, overly brutal Spider-Man?
Title: Re: Comic Book Thread
Post by: Brian on February 11, 2013, 09:22 PM
So, Geoff Johns is leaving Green Lantern:

http://www.ign.com/articles/2013/02/11/geoff-johns-leaving-green-lantern (http://www.ign.com/articles/2013/02/11/geoff-johns-leaving-green-lantern)

Really, an end of an era.  I've really enjoyed his entire run on the book, and he got me hooked on a character I didn't really know much about outside of Super Powers/Super Friends and some Justice League stuff.  That being said, with his last issue (an oversized #20 I think), I'm thinking I'll use it as a chance to jump off.  I've been trying to cut back on the number of books I buy each month, and not just sticking with some of the characters even if I'm not that crazy about the book.  I have no idea who is next in line for the book, and they might be great, but it might be a chance to get out here too.
Title: Re: Comic Book Thread
Post by: Jeff on February 25, 2013, 12:24 PM
RIP, (MASSIVE SPOILER) (http://www.nypost.com/p/news/national/it_ll_go_down_in_wood_history_kZ9EWvYlw10mf4wS324GhN).

I guess [creator redacted] had stated a few times in interviews that this was always his original plan for the character, but I really thought the money aspect of the character would keep him alive. 

Times like this make me miss reading the [character redacted] books.  :(
Title: Re: Comic Book Thread
Post by: JediJman on February 25, 2013, 01:41 PM
Once again, killing off characters in the hopes of driving more sales.  I'm not a DC guy and never heard if this character, so I probably shouldn't care, but this crap really makes me long for the comics of my youth.  I don't know why it's so hard to just develop meaningful characters and fight the latest baddie.
Title: Re: Comic Book Thread
Post by: BillCable on February 25, 2013, 01:50 PM
I'm laughing about just how ridiculous the justification they're using comes across:

Quote
Character’s death, he said, will illustrate how parents lose sight of their kids when they fight.

Yeah, because a superhero dying at the hands of a supervillain is SO MUCH LIKE what happens in the real world when parents fights.
Title: Re: Comic Book Thread
Post by: JediJman on February 25, 2013, 01:52 PM
Parents lose sight of their kids when they fight?  Um, is that really a thing?  I see parents not pay attention to their kids when they should, but I can't say that I've ever heard this one before. 
Title: Re: Comic Book Thread
Post by: Brian on February 25, 2013, 09:03 PM
Without going into spoilers, I'm disappointed to hear this is happening as well.  I mean, it has been rumored for awhile, but I had really grown to enjoy this character over the past couple of years.  Looking forward to reading the issue later this week though, and curious what the aftermath will be.
Title: Re: Comic Book Thread
Post by: John C on February 26, 2013, 09:03 PM
Does his grand dad still have access to a certain restorative pool? 
Title: Re: Comic Book Thread
Post by: name on August 7, 2013, 12:45 PM
50 Shades of Comic Book Heroes (http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2013/08/06/batman-robin-gay-comic_n_3713314.html?utm_hp_ref=fb&src=sp&comm_ref=false)

If Todd McFarlane era Mary Jane is going to get nekkid, I'm in.
Title: Re: Comic Book Thread
Post by: Brian on August 7, 2013, 09:00 PM
Speaking of comics..what is everyone reading these days (or is anyone reading)?  This area hasn't been real active lately, but maybe that is due to people dropping books, etc.  I've been considering making the switch to digital, or at least for some of the titles, because the longboxes are becoming an issue.  I'm already stretching the Mrs. patience with rubbermaids of action figures, let alone boxes of comics taking up space as well.  I think there are a few titles I'd always want print copies of (and most of the Marvel ones come with a free digital one as well), but I think I'm closer to making the switch eventually.

As for what I'm reading....still too much.  I've gotten into a lot of the Marvel books after trying some different ones out with the Marvel NOW revamp.  Looking to trim a few of these off - I'm still enjoying them, but its just too many for what my budget should be:

Marvel
Superior Spider-Man
Superior Spider-Man Team Up
All New X-Men
Uncanny X-Men
Wolverine and the X-Men
Avengers
Uncanny Avengers
New Avengers
Fantastic Four
FF
Daredevil
Captain America
Guardians of the Galaxy
Nova
Ultimate Comics Spider-Man
Infinity

I've picked up a couple other titles here and there (Hulk, Iron Man, Thor, X-Men), but consistently buy the ones listed above.  Still missing Peter Parker from the Spidey books, and hope he comes back sooner than later.  On the DC side, I've stuck mainly to Bat-related stuff, Justice League, and the new Superman Unchained title.  I dropped GL after Johns left (not because of quality, just as an excuse), and I'm always tempted by the Flash but have stayed away there as well.  Other than that, I'm reading the Star Wars title at Dark Horse and TMNT with my daughter.  I'd like to get the list down to at least 2/3, although I am enjoying what I'm reading.
Title: Re: Comic Book Thread
Post by: Matt_Fury on August 9, 2013, 03:21 AM
I've been checking out the various Crossed series as well as Jennifer Blood and The Last Zombie.  Definitely not PG-13 or below, but some interesting storylines!
Title: Re: Comic Book Thread
Post by: JediJman on August 9, 2013, 09:28 AM
I'm up to 30 Titles a month now.  Ugh.  Mostly Marvel books, and pretty much all of the Star Wars & Transformers titles.  I can't believe how many different Avengers books there are now.  I like the individual storylines, but I'm a continuity guy and all these stories happening at once with different teams bugs me.  I'm enjoying Iron Man's trek through space in his own book and GOTG.  The new Hawkeye book is spectacular - more detective like, with some good humor and great plot twists.  I'm only reading Captain Marvel for the tie-in.  Just haven't been able to get into that book or Captain America despite the Avengers connection.  Walking Dead is still the book I go to first each month.   

I get my comics via subscription to scifigenre.com.  They offer a 25% discount at 20 "regular" books and cheap shipping.  I like that the books come bagged and boarded too, though I swear they are using the cheapist bags in the world now.  I miss visiting the comic store to pick up various other titles that spark my attention or leaf through something new, but the sub is a huge time saver and honestly I'm already buying too much.  I haven't read any of my Transformers books since I moved in December.   ::)  Here's my monthly list...

  Avengers    New Avengers   Mighty Avengers    Avengers Assemble    Secret Avengers 
  Avengers AI    Young Avengers    Uncanny Avengers    Avengers Arena    Guardians OTG 
  Hawkeye    Iron Man    Thor: GOT    Journey/Mystery    Captain Marvel 
  Infinity    Infinity:Hunt    Cataclysm    Hunger    Walking Dead 
  Star Wars    SW: Dark Times   SW: Vader & 9th Assn    SW: Legacy Vol.2  The Star Wars
  Transfomers: MTMTE    Transformers: RID    Transformers: Regeneration    Transformers: Monstrosity    Transformers: Spotlight 
Title: Re: Comic Book Thread
Post by: P-Siddy on August 9, 2013, 09:49 AM
I was going to say: when do you have the time to read them all between work, kids, house, figure hunting, etc.  ;)
Title: Re: Comic Book Thread
Post by: Jeff on August 9, 2013, 10:00 AM
Still reading nothing.  Since I gave up new comics back in March'12, I've been tempted by things here or there (Johns' GL, Snyder Batman), but I stayed the course.

I'm at the point now where I don't even go to the newsarama/bleedingcool sites to keep up on the storylines and spoilers anymore.  :-X


BUT, with that said...  I've become more interested than ever in finishing out my pre-crisis/pre-nu52 DCU Flash/GL collections.  In other words, I'm still wasting money on comics...  just 60s/70s/80s Flash/Batman/Green Lantern comics. :P
Title: Re: Comic Book Thread
Post by: JediJman on August 9, 2013, 12:40 PM
I was going to say: when do you have the time to read them all between work, kids, house, figure hunting, etc.  ;)

I try to read a book or two before bed most nights - there's not really any time during the day for me.   :P
Title: Re: Comic Book Thread
Post by: Dressel Rebel on August 10, 2013, 06:00 AM
Avengers - solid/good
New Avengers - amazing
Uncanny Avengers - really good
Avengers Arena - one of the unsuspecting top titles in Marvel Now
Secret Avengers - solid
Uncanny X-Men - disappointing
All-New X-Men - solid
Uncanny X-Force - disappointing/solid
Cable and X-Force - good/solid
Superior Spider-Man - solid
Superior Foes of Spider-Man - solid
Daredevil - solid
Thunderbolts - solid/good
Ultimate Spider-Man - good/really good

** My scale: bad-->disappointing-->solid-->good-->really good-->amazing

Prior to Marvel Now, the 3 books I found to be the best were Uncanny X-Force (2010), Thunderbolts (2009-2012), and Wolverine (2010).


Title: Re: Comic Book Thread
Post by: Dressel Rebel on August 21, 2013, 07:14 PM
Superior Foes of Spider-Man has been super entertaining!!  What a different quirky title.
Title: Re: Comic Book Thread
Post by: Jeff on June 3, 2014, 01:04 PM
It's been pretty interesting following the latest Marvel rumors...  lots of stuff coming out of the woodwork regarding Disney/Marvel's sneaky attempts to sink Fox's 2015 Fantastic Four film.

Word is that Marvel is planning on dropping the FF books (http://www.bleedingcool.com/2014/06/02/dissecting-tom-brevoort-on-the-future-of-the-fantastic-four/) leading up to the FF movie next summer to spite Fox.

Not only are they rumored to be dropping the FF books, but Marvel has already directed artists to stop using the FF characters (http://www.bleedingcool.com/2014/05/30/artists-given-specific-instructions-not-to-use-fantastic-four-characters/) for sketch cards or other promo art.  The FF characters (and the X-Men, also Fox movie property) are conspicuously missing from the Marvel 75th Anniversay issue cover (http://www.bleedingcool.com/2014/05/23/reboots-guardians-and-no-more-mutants/).
Title: Re: Comic Book Thread
Post by: McMetal on June 3, 2014, 03:02 PM
Damn, what a mess. It's my all time favorite comics franchise, but it's hard to feel any sympathy for Fox after the abominable last 2 films, and what looks to be an equally awful reboot. I can't blame Marvel for wanting to distance themselves from that drek. It annoys me to no end that they don't exist in the same universe as the Avengers though.

I hate to see that play out with the comics too, even though I haven't read that title since John Byrne left. They are one of the cornerstone, tent pole type superhero teams IMO, and they deserve better.
Title: Re: Comic Book Thread
Post by: Nicklab on June 3, 2014, 03:29 PM
I can't say that I would blame Marvel / Disney / Marvel Studios for trying to undermine Fox and what may be another abyssmal film that's really just an attempt to cash in and hang on to movie rights.  I would be surprised if there are any clauses or conditions in Fox's film options regarding the continued publication of the books their movies are based upon.

If the past few years have shown comic fans anything, it's that Marvel has proven to be much better stewards of their content when it comes to translating those properties to film.  And in light of the previous 2 FF movies and the lackluster fan response to the Spiderman reboots, perhaps Marvel / Disney / Marvel Studios is looking to bring some of these properties home where they'll be treated with the respect they deserve.
Title: Re: Comic Book Thread
Post by: BillCable on June 3, 2014, 04:23 PM
FF Rumor officially denied (and shown to be ludicrous) (http://io9.com/whats-really-going-on-with-marvel-fox-and-the-fantasti-1585366506)
Title: Re: Comic Book Thread
Post by: Angry Ewok on July 3, 2014, 12:28 AM
Is anyone reading Original Sin and if so, is it worth a blind buy? Been craving some comic book action, its either this or picking up Deadpool's Minibus.
Title: Re: Comic Book Thread
Post by: BillCable on July 3, 2014, 06:51 AM
I've read nothing but raves about Original Sin.
Title: Re: Comic Book Thread
Post by: Angry Ewok on July 3, 2014, 10:56 AM
Thus far, I've only heard pretty good things, as well. I might just hold off for the TPB and go ahead and get that Deadpool Minibus. I'm finishing up on the Dark Phoenix Saga, which I was able to get for $1 on Comixology not long ago -- I love the classics.
Title: Re: Comic Book Thread
Post by: Brian on July 3, 2014, 12:24 PM
I've really enjoyed Original Sin so far.  I haven't read this week's issue, but the previous ones have been pretty good.  A little bit different type of "event" comic, more of a murder mystery with some interesting "team ups" which is kind of neat.  I've liked it so far.

Speaking of comics, has anyone here ever unloaded some of theirs - or have suggestions on where to store things?  I've basically at this point filled up my supply of long/short boxes, and have them all stacked up in our office (which is also the collection room).  Although I do like to go through them every so often, as we've been trying to clean the house out a bit I've considered getting rid of some of them.  The vast majority are more recent (within the past 10 years), so I'm not sure there is necessarily a lot of value, but again I don't just want to throw them out either.

I really should switch to digital (which I've done with anything new I want to check out), but part of me still likes having the paper copies - at least for some titles.  I've thought about cutting back to just getting my absolute (say 5 or so) favorite titles in paper form and going digital with the rest (or cutting them out altogether).  Much like Star Wars collecting, I started small with only reading one title, and over the years it has branched out and gotten a little harder to manage.  Storage is again an issue :).
Title: Re: Comic Book Thread
Post by: Dressel Rebel on July 6, 2014, 08:42 PM
I've been reading Original Sin, I give it 4/5 stars. It's solid and entertaining so far but not amazing yet. The new Magneto series is great. 4.75/5 on that one. And New Avengers is also great, the Marvel Illuminati are fighting another universe's DC Justice League. But even before that the series was great in how it explored the damaged space-time continuum and the hole ripped in it as a result of the Age of Ultron. I recommend all of it Ewok.
Title: Re: Comic Book Thread
Post by: JediJman on July 9, 2014, 10:26 AM
Speaking of comics, has anyone here ever unloaded some of theirs - or have suggestions on where to store things?  I've basically at this point filled up my supply of long/short boxes, and have them all stacked up in our office (which is also the collection room).  Although I do like to go through them every so often, as we've been trying to clean the house out a bit I've considered getting rid of some of them.  The vast majority are more recent (within the past 10 years), so I'm not sure there is necessarily a lot of value, but again I don't just want to throw them out either.

Brian - I had some storage issues a while back as well. I had all my comics bagged and boarded, and you'd be surprised at how much space the added protection takes up.  I ended up changing my storage from one comic/board/bag to two comics (front to back) per bag.  So, Issue #1 goes in the bag, issue #2 gets flipped backwards and goes in the same bag on the other side.  If I pick up the bag and rotate it, I can see the covers for both issues.  With the bag thicker and binder reinforcement on both sides, you don't need backing boards anymore, though I still use them every 20-30 issues to protect an anniversary or #1 issue sometimes.  I probably gained about 20% more storage per box with this method.  Might buy you a little more time.   ;)
Title: Re: Comic Book Thread
Post by: BillCable on August 15, 2014, 10:29 AM
Lobo is ruined (http://www.bleedingcool.com/2013/09/11/the-new-look-of-lobo-and-his-pottymouth/)
Title: Re: Comic Book Thread
Post by: JediJman on August 18, 2014, 10:18 AM
Lobo is ruined (http://www.bleedingcool.com/2013/09/11/the-new-look-of-lobo-and-his-pottymouth/)

That looks ridiculous, but you DC guys still have it better than Marvel fans.  Thor's new look is with boobs and lipstick is still a bigger change.
Title: Re: Comic Book Thread
Post by: Jeff on August 18, 2014, 10:36 AM
you DC guys still have it better than Marvel fans.  Thor's new look is with boobs and lipstick is still a bigger change.

At least they didn't erase him from existence. 

Just thinking about the complete overhaul of the Flash-family history/timeline/origins/villians makes me want to  :'(.  RIP Wally West, Professor Zoom, etc.
Title: Re: Comic Book Thread
Post by: JediJman on August 18, 2014, 10:44 AM
At least they didn't erase him from existence. 

True.  With Marvel, you know you're going to get the original live and kicking again within the next 18-24 months.

The Thor and Cap moves really shock me though given how closely they've tried to tie the comics to the movies.  Hawk & Cap changed uniforms for no reason to map to what we get in the movies, and they even replaced Nick Fury with Nick Fury Jr. to get the Sam Jackson look.  Given that, it seems really weird to make a Black Cap and Lady Thor given upcoming Solo and Avengers films with still have the original characters.
Title: Re: Comic Book Thread
Post by: BillCable on August 18, 2014, 11:39 AM
The comic books are insignificant from a business perspective.  They really have no impact on the performance of the films.  They do these stunts to generate short-term sales boosts.  The publishing arm does what it can to create buzz and stay afloat.  The movies earn half a billion to a billion and a half each.

I read an analysis of Marvel "cancelling" Fantastic Four to hurt Fox movie sales.  And they concluded it was ridiculous.  They said Fox could take out a full-page ad inside the Fantastic Four comic saying "F-you!  Don't see our movie!" and it would only cut like half a million from the gross.  That's if every FF reader boycotted the movie.

We're in an age now when the "real" Iron Man is Robert Downey Jr., and movie canon supersedes book canon.
Title: Re: Comic Book Thread
Post by: P-Siddy on August 18, 2014, 12:43 PM
and they even replaced Nick Fury with Nick Fury Jr. to get the Sam Jackson look. 

Did not know this and checked out an image... really?  He's got the eye patch, too?
Title: Re: Comic Book Thread
Post by: BillCable on August 18, 2014, 01:22 PM
The Ultimates Universe Nick Fury character design was based off Sam Jackson.  When they cast Nick Fury for the movies, they went with the Ultimates version (as they did with more than a few plot elements).  The movie Nick Fury was such a hit, that when the Ultimates Universe had a cross-over event with the traditional Marvel Universe, they decided to swap Nick Furys so the Marvel Nick could keep an eye on the Ultimates universe, and vice-versa.  So now the regular Marvel Nick Fury is Sam Jackson.
Title: Re: Comic Book Thread
Post by: Phrubruh on August 18, 2014, 04:00 PM
So which Nick Fury is David Hasselhoff playing?

(http://media.comicbookmovie.com/images/users/uploads/33503/nickFuryWP2.jpg)
Title: Re: Comic Book Thread
Post by: JediJman on August 18, 2014, 04:28 PM
The comic books are insignificant from a business perspective. 

They're totally different divisions with different profit targets and business plans. Obviously the general movie audience is bigger than small percent of comic readers.  Cheerios is ridiculously larger than Frankenberry cereal - doesn't mean Frankenberry doesn't have it's own business plans for growth.  I don't think anyone is suggesting that the movies have or should change to map to the comics are they?   ???

As I was saying, the comics have historically tried to link to what we see in the movies as the familiar look of the characters may draw in new readers from the significantly larger movie audience.  Since we've seen so much of this from Marvel, there's obviously some shift in the philosophy/strategy on the comic side to roll out Black Cap and Thor Lady when the movie side is at the top of it's game with the original characters.

and they even replaced Nick Fury with Nick Fury Jr. to get the Sam Jackson look. 

Did not know this and checked out an image... really?  He's got the eye patch, too?

Yeah, pretty ridiculous if you ask me.  Crusty old white Fury was such an integral part of the Marvel U for decades.  At least there's an explanation behind his change.  Hawkeye just shows up with shades instead of a mask mid-storyline for the Avengers.   ::)
Title: Re: Comic Book Thread
Post by: Nicklab on August 23, 2014, 01:41 PM
It looks like the exposure of the Black Widow's past in Captain America - The Winter Soldier is going to be further explored in upcoming Marvel Comics (http://marvel.com/news/comics/2014/8/20/23113/anderson_cooper_gets_caught_in_the_widows_web).  And real-world players from the media like Anderson Cooper of CNN will be depicted investigating Natasha and her somewhat questionable past.  I think it's actually pretty interesting and topical.  But it could also have the effect of make the book seem deliberately dated.
Title: Re: Comic Book Thread
Post by: BillCable on February 27, 2015, 07:08 AM
Because - fan service...

http://www.hollywoodreporter.com/heat-vision/dcs-catwoman-comes-as-bisexual-778030 (http://www.hollywoodreporter.com/heat-vision/dcs-catwoman-comes-as-bisexual-778030)
Title: Re: Comic Book Thread
Post by: Scott on May 10, 2015, 12:19 AM
Had time to like Friday and walked into a local comic shop...walked out with Secret Wars...interesting


Interesting that they are more or less doing a Secret Wars/Crisis mashup.   I haven't read any comics in years but I'm intereSted in where this is going
Title: Re: Comic Book Thread
Post by: JediJman on May 11, 2015, 01:33 PM
Had time to like Friday and walked into a local comic shop...walked out with Secret Wars...interesting


Interesting that they are more or less doing a Secret Wars/Crisis mashup.   I haven't read any comics in years but I'm intereSted in where this is going

Funny, I had the opposite opinion.  I've been collecting Marvel FOREVER and the whole crisis/reboot thing may be my jumping off point.  It's become very clear to me over the years that comics like The Avengers have been little more than a marketing tool for the movies.  You need 12-24 issues to get through one story, often with gaping plot holes, missing information, and fairly poor storytelling.  They have all but wiped out the multiverse at this point and are now setting up battle world territories across the merged remaining universes, so Marvel Zombies have a plot of land, all the female characters have a plot of land, all the Thors have come together to police everything...pretty ridiculous stuff.  I might jump off following Secret Wars, then see what evolves over the next year. 
Title: Re: Comic Book Thread
Post by: BillCable on May 11, 2015, 01:52 PM
I plan to pick up the main Secret Wars series just to get an understanding of what happens to get everything to the unified Marvel Universe.  Seems like the Battleworld stuff will be kind of a mess in the transition.  And maybe they're having a little too much fun with it.  But hopefully it'll be decent once we get out the other end.
Title: Re: Comic Book Thread
Post by: Brian on January 22, 2016, 09:26 PM
Read a few different articles on this today, but apparently Dc may be planning another line-wise reboot this summer:

http://www.comicbookmovie.com/fansites/JoshWildingNewsAndReviews/news/?a=130287 (http://www.comicbookmovie.com/fansites/JoshWildingNewsAndReviews/news/?a=130287)

Some of the rumors are that they will try to bring things more in line with their now growing movie (and tv) universe, and characters outside of that may not get as much attention.  Also rumors of Scott Snyder leaving Batman after 5 plus years, as that title will be going to twice a month and be more tied in with the DCU (he may be heading to Detective Comics though).  I don't read a lot of DC since the last reboot, I started off with a lot of titles but have now dwindled down to just Batman, the Flash, and Justice League.
Title: Re: Comic Book Thread
Post by: Diddly on January 24, 2016, 06:19 PM
Ugh... isn't Marvel doing a reboot too? I know they were planning one but it got delayed and I honestly haven't kept up.

Might be a good point to drop all my non-Star Wars and Walking Dead subs.
Title: Re: Comic Book Thread
Post by: BillCable on January 25, 2016, 09:05 AM
Marvel completed their reboot a couple months back with the Secret Wars cross-over.  Basically, Molecule Man was a time-bomb created to erase all off history across the multi-verse.  Doom finds out, defeats the beings who created him, and does what he can to salvage the few bits of reality still existing.  So he creates Battleworld, where he rules as God Emperor Doom.  Everyone believes Battleworld is how the universe always was (false memories) save for the few people who helped create it, and a few people who survived the destruction on high-tech life boats (Reed Richards, Thanos, Black Panther, Miles and Parker, among them).  In the end, Battleworld falls apart in a battle between Reed and Doom (which I haven't read yet since the core book is running a few months late), and the new, single Marvel Universe is created.  In it, they've cherry-picked their favorite characters from the Ultimates Universe, '90s New Universe, classic Marvel Universe, and random parallel timelines (Spider-Gwen, Maestro Hulk).
Title: Re: Comic Book Thread
Post by: JediJman on January 25, 2016, 09:15 AM
Seems like a lot of work to bring a few Ultimates characters into the "normal" Marvel Universe.  I was not very impressed with any of the latest incarnation of Secret Wars.  Doom takes Sue for his wife and Reed's kids as well - lots of room for great character reactions here, but it all falls flat.  Lots of wasted potential in this one.  I always think it might be time to drop out of Marvel comics for the most part and this is likely going to be my dropping off point.  It's unfortunate that no one can figure out how to just make an ongoing series without huge universal implications and character reboots every few years. 
Title: Re: Comic Book Thread
Post by: BillCable on January 25, 2016, 12:05 PM
I think they did the best they could to clean up a very messy situation.  And it seems like this'll be permanent for a change.  The core Secret Wars book was hit and miss.  Some pretty shocking deaths, but it seems like they're not gonna be permanent.

I'm surprised they opted to go with old-man Hawkeye, old-man Logan, and old-man Hulk, and replace the main characters with their kids (and some random Asian guy).  I'm not sure how long it'll take before they each find their fountains of youth.

I prefer this solution to DC's "everything before is non-canon" new 52.  At least they didn't nuke 75 years of legacy.
Title: Re: Comic Book Thread
Post by: JediJman on January 25, 2016, 04:23 PM
I think I'm still bitter that they made Thor a girl, Hawk & Wolvie old, and Cap & Spidey black for pretty much no reason (or maybe there is a white and a black Spidey now just to keep everyone happy?).  The deaths in SW are meaningless since the universe gets arbitrarily re-written.  Too many marketing gimmicks when there is plenty of story left to tell and really interesting existing characters to do so with.
Title: Re: Comic Book Thread
Post by: Brian on January 28, 2016, 04:59 PM
Speaking of DC changing things, this is happening:

http://www.ign.com/articles/2016/01/28/dc-comics-gives-the-hanna-barbera-universe-a-drastic-makeover (http://www.ign.com/articles/2016/01/28/dc-comics-gives-the-hanna-barbera-universe-a-drastic-makeover)
Title: Re: Comic Book Thread
Post by: JediJman on January 28, 2016, 06:24 PM
Speaking of DC changing things, this is happening:

http://www.ign.com/articles/2016/01/28/dc-comics-gives-the-hanna-barbera-universe-a-drastic-makeover (http://www.ign.com/articles/2016/01/28/dc-comics-gives-the-hanna-barbera-universe-a-drastic-makeover)

Wow.  Who is the target audience here?   ???
Title: Re: Comic Book Thread
Post by: Diddly on January 29, 2016, 12:37 AM
I know the meme is to make fun of DC for being too dark and gritty but this is just feeding directly into those criticisms
Title: Re: Comic Book Thread
Post by: BillCable on January 29, 2016, 08:13 AM
So Velma's what, 8 years old now?
Title: Re: Comic Book Thread
Post by: Phrubruh on January 29, 2016, 09:16 AM
Betty has a rack.
Title: Re: Comic Book Thread
Post by: Jeff on January 29, 2016, 10:11 AM
DC has just released an updated image of the new and improved XTREME Scooby Doo -

(http://vignette2.wikia.nocookie.net/simpsons/images/3/31/Poochy_%28Simpsons_Official_Site%29.PNG/revision/latest?cb=20120524005128)

"The name's Scooby D.
And I rock the telly.
I'm half Joe Camel and a third Fonzarelli.
I'm the Kung-Fu hippie, from Gangsta City.
I'm a rappin' surfer.
You the fool I pity."
Title: Re: Comic Book Thread
Post by: Scott on January 29, 2016, 10:24 AM
DC has just released an updated image of the new and improved XTREME Scooby Doo -

(http://vignette2.wikia.nocookie.net/simpsons/images/3/31/Poochy_%28Simpsons_Official_Site%29.PNG/revision/latest?cb=20120524005128)

"The name's Scooby D.
And I rock the telly.
I'm half Joe Camel and a third Fonzarelli.
I'm the Kung-Fu hippie, from Gangsta City.
I'm a rappin' surfer.
You the fool I pity."
If this was Facebook you would have gotten a thumbs up on that one
Title: Re: Comic Book Thread
Post by: McMetal on January 29, 2016, 12:29 PM
oh for the love of...

Please don't piss all over the Herculoids!

 :'(
Title: Re: Comic Book Thread
Post by: Jeff on May 25, 2016, 11:19 AM
Comics, man.

On the same day that DC (well, really Geoff Johns) tries to right the DCU ship and bring hope, love and (FINALLY) someone they erased back to the DCU and finally kill the stupid nu52 junk (DC Rebirth #1 = awesome, by the way), Marvel goes out and basically tries to ruin one of their best characters (yes, with something that is sure to be eventually undone or revealed as a long con - but still).

Wonder how Joe Simon and Jack Kirby (both Jewish) would feel about today's Marvel news...   :-X
Title: Re: Comic Book Thread
Post by: JediJman on May 25, 2016, 11:32 AM
Yeah, I'm pretty disappointed with this turn of events.  It's like they just think of the most ridiculous options possible to get the free PR.  I thought Thor as a girl was about the lowest they could go, but this is worse.  Ugh.
Title: Re: Comic Book Thread
Post by: P-Siddy on May 25, 2016, 12:25 PM
I'm just amazed at the "outrage" that Steve Rogers and Bucky Barnes should be gay instead of best buds growing up together.  Plus the whole Cap was kissing on Carter's grand niece or something didn't make it obvious.

As for the Cap comic news... I agree with you two. Really?  After all these years?  Well, we know this can't be tied in to the MCU... Or maybe it can.  In the comic 'verse, anything can happen.
Title: Re: Comic Book Thread
Post by: McMetal on May 25, 2016, 08:19 PM
What happened at Marvel?
Title: Re: Comic Book Thread
Post by: P-Siddy on May 25, 2016, 08:32 PM
What happened at Marvel?

The Cap is actually a Hydra agent after all these years.
Title: Re: Comic Book Thread
Post by: Qui-Gon Jim on May 26, 2016, 07:43 AM
Lame.
Title: Re: Comic Book Thread
Post by: Phrubruh on May 26, 2016, 09:08 AM
I guess Cap has new writers. They write what they know about.
Title: Re: Comic Book Thread
Post by: Diddly on May 26, 2016, 09:24 AM
Isn't Marvel rebooting again this fall, not even a year after their last failed reboot? This is why I don't read their comics.
Title: Re: Comic Book Thread
Post by: Brian on May 26, 2016, 03:38 PM
I'm usually pretty open minded when they try these shake ups in the comic books, knowing that eventually things will go back to normal. I've seen nearly every hero die, then come back, be mind controlled, or have their body taken over by a villain....and eventually things go back. That being said, this one just doesn't sit right with me. There is a good article over at Newsarama, "Why can't they just let Captain America be Captain America", basically detailing how since he was "killed" after Civil War he has been lost in time, then in another dimension, then aged, then depowered, and now this. It seems to work well with the movies having Cap be the All-American leader, who always does the right thing...the comics seem to shy away from that. This twist, and they said there is no doppelgänger, mind control, etc. to this, fundamentally changes the character. Hopefully things will work out, it's only one issue, but this is one change I'm not a fan of.

As far as Marvel's situation, they haven't ever really done a "reboot". They start over at new number ones, nearly yearly, but the previous stories and history are still in tact. They almost run the books like tv in a way, with a new "season" each year. I guess this keeps the history for older readers, while offering an easy entry point for new readers. I think they think an "issue 542" might scare some people off. DCs New 52 initiative that is just wrapping up now, was more of a reboot that started a new history, which they seem to be course correcting a bit now by bringing back stuff from prior to that. Hopefully it works, because I had dropped down to basically 3 books now from DC as the rest seemed unfamiliar or dark for dark's sake.
Title: Re: Comic Book Thread
Post by: JediJman on May 26, 2016, 05:30 PM
I've been teetering on the edge of dropping my Marvel subscriptions for a while now.  This might do it for me.  I'm not a fan of most of the current stories and they didn't really sort things out well from Secret Wars in my opinion.  I don't need to be paying $4 a book to read about Hydra Cap and Lady Thor - I'd rather go back and read some of the old stuff than these PR stunts.  Still love the movies, but the comics are just out of hand.
Title: Re: Comic Book Thread
Post by: Matt_Fury on May 27, 2016, 08:05 AM
In three months you'll find out this is actually a clone of Steve Rogers.
Title: Re: Comic Book Thread
Post by: BillCable on May 27, 2016, 08:06 AM
As far as Marvel's situation, they haven't ever really done a "reboot".

That's completely inaccurate.  At the beginning of Secret Wars last year, the Marvel Multiverse was destroyed.  Dr. Doom cobbled together a kingdom, saving (or recreating) everyone he could.  A handful of heroes who survived the destruction in lifeboats orchestrated a civil war against Doom and won.  In the end, the new unified universe was created by Franklin Richards.  It combined elements of the traditional Marvel universe, Ultimate universe, and the cinematic universe.

It was a full-scale reboot.
Title: Re: Comic Book Thread
Post by: Brian on May 27, 2016, 09:55 AM
As far as Marvel's situation, they haven't ever really done a "reboot".

That's completely inaccurate.  At the beginning of Secret Wars last year, the Marvel Multiverse was destroyed.  Dr. Doom cobbled together a kingdom, saving (or recreating) everyone he could.  A handful of heroes who survived the destruction in lifeboats orchestrated a civil war against Doom and won.  In the end, the new unified universe was created by Franklin Richards.  It combined elements of the traditional Marvel universe, Ultimate universe, and the cinematic universe.

It was a full-scale reboot.

You are absolutely right, there was a lot of condensing of universes and definitely a fresh start again, I guess it comes down to what you consider a reboot. Comic book stuff is always murky in that way to me. I look at something like DC's New 52, where not only was every comic restarted with #1 issues but the previous history was essentially erased or rewritten as well. Batman had only been operating for 5 years, but still had all the Robins at some point. The Justice League hadn't gotten together yet, and when they did assemble Cyborg was a founding member and Martian Manhunter wasn't anywhere to be found. Wally West completely disappeared, then came back as essentially a different character...there wasn't a JSA, etc. there are lots of examples, but they essentially took the approach of "this is the first time any of this happened, or any of them met, etc.". They even went back and did a "Zero Year" storyline with Batman.

The Marvel stuff is a little bit different. Yes, they consolidated the Ultimate Universe with the 616 (and others), essentially plucking their favorite stuff or versions from throughout worlds or storylines (Miles Morales, Old Man Logan, etc., but the overall Marvel history was still in tact and generally the same. The characters still know each other, have extensive histories (as in they didn't just start being heroes and didn't just form teams), and the stuff that happened before still exists. The various Marvel comics still reference things that happened prior to Secret Wars, or even the Secret War itself in some cases. A fresh start for sure, but not necessarily a total reboot to me. Again, it's all in how you look at a reboot I guess. Like back when Marvel started up the now gone Ultimate Universe, if they would have quit publishing the regular 616 books and just stuck with the Ultimate U as the Marvel Universe, that is a hard reboot to me. The characters initially are based off of classic versions in most cases, but the stories became very different.
Title: Re: Comic Book Thread
Post by: BillCable on May 27, 2016, 11:49 AM
Yeah, I see what you're saying.  But there's really a bit more to it for Marvel.  They had Franklin dreaming up everyone's history.  So ideally it would be identical to what was before Secret Wars (minus the transplants), but it doesn't necessarily HAVE to be identical.

For example, I expect the new Punisher series will feature a Frank Castle who is a veteran Marine of non-specific Middle Eastern conflicts, not Vietnam.  That way he's not in his seventies (though the FrankenPunisher thing already took care of that... painfully badly).

So I guess I'm saying we don't know the past is canon unless it's revealed anew as canon.
Title: Re: Comic Book Thread
Post by: JediJman on May 27, 2016, 12:00 PM
So I guess I'm saying we don't know the past is canon unless it's revealed anew as canon.

Not sure where you read that.  I see it the way Brian explained and would consider all of the previous history as canon unless evidence arises to refute that.
Title: Re: Comic Book Thread
Post by: Diddly on July 6, 2016, 10:29 AM
Exclusive: Marvel’s New Iron Man Is a Black Woman (http://time.com/4394478/iron-man-riri-williams-tony-stark/)

This will be a fun 6 months of Internet drama before Marvel reverts everything back to normal!
Title: Re: Comic Book Thread
Post by: Phrubruh on July 7, 2016, 10:41 AM
How does she fit that hair in the helmet?
Title: Re: Comic Book Thread
Post by: BillCable on July 7, 2016, 01:16 PM
You do know that hair is soft, right?
Title: Re: Comic Book Thread
Post by: Scockery on July 7, 2016, 03:50 PM
Hair can be delicate, too. No woman with a do that nice is gonna risk it.  :P
Title: Re: Comic Book Thread
Post by: JediJman on July 7, 2016, 05:51 PM
Awesome. Its so refreshing to see Marvel completely do away with white males in any kind of positive heroic role. New Avengers lineup:

Black Female Iron Man
Black Male Spiderman
Black Male Captain America
Muslim Female Ms. Marvel
White Female Thor
Red Android Vision

I think 12 year old Nova might be on the team now, so that's almost a white "man."  And Ant Man is still a white guy I think. So I guess white males can still be tolerated in low doses so long as they're juveniles or diminished in size.  Its funny though - somehow all the white male bad guys are still white male bad guys.

Now I've got to figure out how I'm going to spend all this money that I'm no longer using to buy comics.
Title: Re: Comic Book Thread
Post by: Jeff on July 21, 2017, 02:52 PM
Robert Kirkman to kill off The Walking Dead comic (http://www.nme.com/news/tv/walking-dead-creator-says-hes-bringing-series-end-2113911)
Title: Re: Comic Book Thread
Post by: McMetal on July 21, 2017, 05:21 PM
Robert Kirkman to kill off The Walking Dead comic (http://www.nme.com/news/tv/walking-dead-creator-says-hes-bringing-series-end-2113911)

 :) :) :)

They should stumble upon an enclave of scientists working on a cure. But probably everyone will just die because Kirkman.
Title: Re: Comic Book Thread
Post by: Scockery on July 21, 2017, 08:40 PM
Whole thing was a dream. Rick wakes up from his coma for real this time. That's it...done Kirkman.
Title: Re: Comic Book Thread
Post by: JediJman on July 22, 2017, 11:02 PM
There's no way to really end it well without killing everyone.   >:D
Title: Re: Comic Book Thread
Post by: BillCable on July 22, 2017, 11:05 PM
Sure there is... somebody dies from not-a-head-shot, and then stays dead.  The zombie plague has ended, just as mysteriously as it started.
Title: Re: Comic Book Thread
Post by: Brian on September 16, 2017, 03:10 PM
Anyone reading many comics these days? I know many here have sort of dropped out of modern comics for the most part, so feel free to post anything older you might be checking out as well. I personally cut back my list by probably 60% last month. Much like collecting, storing all those books was starting to become a pain....and with all of the prices climbing these days, it has gotten fairly expensive. I may end up cutting more shortly. I've started becoming interested in picking up back issues from the 80s. Those are what I was into as a kid, and it just seemed like you got a little more for your money then. Things this day are pretty quick reads.

Personally, I'm reading these right now:

Star Wars
Darth Vader
Amazing Spider-Man
Guardians of the Galaxy
Daredevil
X-Men
Captain America (after the "reboot")
The Flash
Batman
Title: Re: Comic Book Thread
Post by: Darby on September 16, 2017, 04:12 PM
I no longer read them, but I keep up on the news for some reason. And I read Saga in trades.
Title: Re: Comic Book Thread
Post by: JediJman on September 18, 2017, 12:01 PM
I'm contemplating cancelling.  I haven't even opened my last 4 shipments and am pretty disappointed at the storylines Marvel's been pushing lately.  Evil Cap, Lady Thor, Black Teen Iron Man, Black Spidey...I get adding some diverse characters, but its gotten pretty ridiculous.  If they're so gung ho to eliminate any presence of white men, then I'll help them out by eliminating my subscriptions. 

I'd like to continue on with Star Wars and Transformers, but that's just a gateway to hop back on board with Marvel at some point.
Title: Re: Comic Book Thread
Post by: Diddly on September 18, 2017, 03:06 PM
I've dropped down to only Star Wars. Just the main series plus whatever else I feel like getting. I used to be a completist but there's so much now and a lot of it is uninteresting.

I had also been buying Walking Dead and Amazing Spider-Man but wasn't actually reading them, so I stopped buying them.
Title: Re: Comic Book Thread
Post by: Brian on September 18, 2017, 06:04 PM
Looks like I'm not the only one cutting down then 🙂. A couple of my friends locally quit entirely as well, citing that if they picked up only one or two it would be too easy to backslide. I should probably cut down even further, and may be headed there eventually. It is just so much pricier than it used to be, and adds up fast.
Title: Re: Comic Book Thread
Post by: JediJman on September 19, 2017, 10:21 AM
It is more expensive, but I'd counter that I have a lot more disposable income these days too.  Beyond increasing wages, I'm buying a lot less toys with each passing year.  Comics take up very little space as well, so neither of those are big factors for me.  I just don't like what they're doing with the characters and stories.  The continuity is all shot to hell at Marvel (and DC from what I hear), and there's too much emphasis on "look at the big spread picture we drew" versus " think about the interesting twists and relationships in the stories we're building."  When I look back on some of favorite comics, it wasn't the art that blew me away, it was the story.  Stark losing everything due to alcoholism, Pym's insecurities causing the birth of Ultron and getting him kicked off the team, Hawkeye & Cap's debates about what's best for the team, the weird love triangle with Scarlet Witch, Wonderman, and Vision.  I even really liked Rhodey taking over the Iron Man armor (gasp a Black Iron Man!), but now that's all they can come up with.  Loki's reborn as a woman, then as a kid.  Iron Man goes on a crusade to prevent anyone from using his tech...except a black college girl.  Cap was a secret agent for Hydra all these years.  Thor's a chick.  Wolverine's a chick.  Hawkeye's a chick.   It's so utterly disappointing when they could be doing so much more. 
Title: Re: Comic Book Thread
Post by: Diddly on September 19, 2017, 10:38 AM
Don't forget the huge emphasis on the big events like Secret Wars II that are truly terrible
Title: Re: Comic Book Thread
Post by: BillCable on September 19, 2017, 12:22 PM
I spend $30-40 per month on comics.  Punisher.  Jessica Jones.  She-Hulk (new series is pretty blah).  Iron Heart (actually quite good).  Pretty much anything Mark Millar releases.  Shaolin Cowboy (brilliant artwork).
Title: Re: Comic Book Thread
Post by: Brian on September 19, 2017, 05:52 PM
I've been going back and revisiting some early 80s comics, and it is just surprising how much more there us to them, reading-wise. Sure seems to take a lot longer to get through them than it does with many modern books. Not that I dint enjoy the modern books, I do, but there is definitely a difference.
Title: Re: Comic Book Thread
Post by: Dave on September 19, 2017, 06:40 PM
I've had my Star Wars comics stacking up lately and going unread, and as a result have considered stopping my subscription service for these.  Its not a huge amount of money, and not a huge amount of space, but I'm not sure why I still get them.

I think half the problem is that I've grown frustrated with "how comics work".  Maybe this worked better in the past, maybe I'm just getting old, maybe I've got too much other stuff going on, but I don't think they've changed their model in the 45+ years I've been alive. 

I don't like getting a monthly story snippet that is part of a larger story arc that I last read 30+ days ago and won't read again for 30+ days.  Nobody reads a novel a couple chapters a month taking six months to finish it.  I think I would be much happier about reading comics if they could move from a monthly model to a quarterly larger bound story arc where they would combine four normal monthly issues in to one larger "book".  You could still string these together to have a continuing title, but I grow frustrated with reading the stories in small bites. 

TV and cable doesn't work this way - Game of Thrones doesn't show one episode a month on HBO.  They build them all up and show them back to back for two months.  I feel comics need to move to this model as my attention span can't handle the way they've continue to operate.
Title: Re: Comic Book Thread
Post by: Phrubruh on September 20, 2017, 09:50 AM
I agree. The monthly stories really don't advance the plot very much. By the time you get the next issue, you forget what is happening. If they were an hour long tv show, one book would be about four minutes before a month long commercial. There just isn't much content in each book.
Title: Re: Comic Book Thread
Post by: Brian on November 7, 2017, 09:56 AM
A bit of a surprise this morning, as it has been announced (and confirmed) that Brian Michael Bendis is leaving Marvel and signing an exclusive deal with DC. Curious what he will be working on.
Title: Re: Comic Book Thread
Post by: Qui-Gon Jim on November 12, 2017, 12:12 PM
Reminds me of when WCW snatched away WWE’s head writer.

It isn’t just the writing that draws the fans in.  The characters play a huge role.
Title: Re: Comic Book Thread
Post by: Brian on March 7, 2018, 02:37 PM
Anyone reading comics these days? I know I recently I cut my subscription down by about 2/3 or more, with the combination of saving money and lack of space being a big factor. I've also starting reading some things digitally, which saves on space. Here's my current list:

Star Wars
Darth Vader
Amazing Spider-Man
Captain America
Daredevil
Marvel Two in One
X-Men Gold
Flash
Batman

I'm also reading the Infinity Countdown stuff, and will pick up the Guardians of the Galaxy comic if/when it returns. Checked out the first issue of Thrawn as well, and caught up on Runaways digitally. Plan on getting the new Avengers book when it restarts in a couple months since they are returning to a more classic cast with Cap, Thor, Iron Man, and Black Panther.
Title: Re: Comic Book Thread
Post by: JediJman on March 14, 2018, 09:52 PM
I quit cold turkey a few months back and really haven't missed it much.  Walking Dead is the only thing I still grab, and that's only if I happen to be near the comic shop every few months.  The Marvel stuff had me disliking their overall brand less and less, moving all the heroes to other sexes, races, or making them evil...poor storytelling versus what I remember from the 80s and 90s.  It wasn't worth keeping my sub for just a few books, so Star Wars and Transformers lost out too.   :-\
Title: Re: Comic Book Thread
Post by: Diddly on March 20, 2018, 06:44 PM
Just reading Star Wars (main series) and the occasional spinoff line. I have a sub for Amazing Spider-Man, but apparently that's ending again after Issue 800 ::)
Title: Re: Comic Book Thread
Post by: evenflow on March 22, 2018, 12:47 PM
Have not picked a comic in years. I just picked up the Thanos trade paperbacks for the newer series from 2017. Really enjoying it. Will probably try to pick up the other issues since its a newer run.
Title: Re: Comic Book Thread
Post by: Brian on August 1, 2018, 02:41 PM
Anybody reading these days? I'm continuing to cut back here and there, but I'm starting to wonder if I shouldn't just drop it down to Spidey and Star Wars. The kiddo is getting to that more expensive age between sports, band, contacts and now braces, so....much like toys....it might be getting to a more bare bones time with the non essentials. I don't think I'd ever stop Amazing Spidey (unless they got rid if Peter Parker), that one has basically been continued my entire life. I really enjoy Star Wars as well. Although I still enjoy them, I should maybe drop the rest. Easier said than done. Here's my current list:

Star Wars
Darth Vader
Amazing Spider-Man
Fantastic Four (soon)
Avengers
Captain America
Justice League
Batman
The Flash
Title: Re: Comic Book Thread
Post by: JediJman on August 15, 2018, 03:25 PM
I cancelled my subscription many months back and really haven't regretted it.  I visit the comic shop every 4-6 weeks to pick up Walking Dead and a few new titles I'm trying like Ant-Man and Deadpool, but that's it.  I've peeked at the Avengers and Iron Man stories while I'm there, but the stories look awful.  How did they ever resolve the Hydra Captain America stuff?
Title: Re: Comic Book Thread
Post by: Dave on August 15, 2018, 04:47 PM
Jman - did you drop your Star Wars subscriptions too, or just your non SW subs?
Title: Re: Comic Book Thread
Post by: BillCable on August 16, 2018, 07:45 AM
How did they ever resolve the Hydra Captain America stuff?

I believe history had been rewritten by the Cosmic Cube, resulting in Hydra Cap.
Title: Re: Comic Book Thread
Post by: BillCable on August 27, 2018, 02:11 PM
Three comics in, and "The Magic Order" is pretty compelling.  If you're into Millar's stuff.
Title: Re: Comic Book Thread
Post by: JediJman on September 6, 2018, 05:48 PM
Jman - did you drop your Star Wars subscriptions too, or just your non SW subs?

I actually dropped SW too.  I bought issue #50 by chance, but I think I stopped right around #35.  Stopped all the secondary titles as well.  I pop into the comic shop every 4-6 weeks to grab Walking Dead and Old Man Hawkeye, but that's just about it now.  I'd probably snag the missing SW comics if I found them on sale somewhere.
Title: Re: Comic Book Thread
Post by: Mikey D on September 20, 2018, 08:07 AM
If you've ever wondered what the Bat-Dong looked like, well, your prayers have been answered:

https://screenrant.com/batman-penis-naked-nude-comic-damned/

(Spoiler - it's nothing like Toad with Yeti pubes...)
Title: Re: Comic Book Thread
Post by: Brian on September 28, 2018, 01:59 PM
Although I haven't personally read it, sounds like more darkness returning to the DCU this week via Heroes in Crisis#1. I won't get into details here because of spoilers, but suffice to say several heroes were killed off including a couple fairly significant ones. Not to mention what happened to Nightwing in the recent issue of Batman.

I know it has been discussed before, but I really have had enough of all the "dark and gritty" with comic books. It has its place, sure, but I like my heroes to just be heroes and punch the bad guys in the face.
Title: Re: Comic Book Thread
Post by: Brian on September 1, 2019, 04:27 PM
Been about a year, anyone reading comics these days? Like I seem to often post, I still love them but price and space has me cutting back a little more each year. Still keep up with the main Star Wars title, but sounds like that is ending in November (with some sort of replacement I'm sure). Otherwise I'm currently getting:

Amazing Spider-Man
Fantastic Four
Avengers
House of/Powers of X
Batman
The Flash

Also some limited stuff like Batman: Last Knight on Earth and the upcoming JJ Abrams Spidey project. I'm still considering dropping everything but Amazing Spider-Man and maybe the odd thing that catches my eye. The OCD in me kicks in where I'm like "well I have the first 50-75 issues, I just as well keep going". I need to get out of that mindset. Even with a shorter list, it adds up over the course of a month. With collecting getting more expensive all the time as well, changes have to be made.
Title: Re: Comic Book Thread
Post by: Matt_Fury on September 1, 2019, 10:20 PM
I've been revisiting The Boys since the show debuted on Amazon.
Title: Re: Comic Book Thread
Post by: JediJman on September 3, 2019, 10:38 PM
I was down to just a few titles, but I think they all wrapped up recently.

Walking Dead
West Coast Avengers
Old Man Hawkeye

I page through the Avengers and Iron Man stuff occasionally, but between the poor art and what looks like terrible plot lines, I just can't motivate myself to restart any of those titles.  I have decades of older books - I've been thinking about rereading the old volume 1 Avengers and other titles instead of buying new stuff. 

I quit the Marvel Star Wars titles a few year ago too, but have been thinking about trying to scoop those back up with nothing else really appealing to me right now.
Title: Re: Comic Book Thread
Post by: Angry Ewok on November 17, 2019, 04:50 PM
I have been reading the TPB of Vader and Star Wars and Aphra in order. A lot of storyline decisions annoy me in the new canon but for the most part I’m enjoying it and hoping for some nice Blizzard Force issues with the new series.