Four Color Commentary

Michael Vance At OAFCON 2008

marknick4@yahoo.com (Mark Allen) — Wed, 20 Aug 2008 17:01:18 -0500

Michael Vance will be appearing at OAFCON 2008, October 3rd and 4th (Friday and Saturday - No Sunday show), at the Biltmore Hotel, I-40 at Meridian Avenue in Oklahoma City. A VERY special guest-of-honor will be Bill Schelly, making his first-ever appearance at a Southwestern Convention! (O.A.F stands for "Oklahoma Alliance of Fans.")

Below is some information on Schelly and the con from their blog.

Bill Schelly has been chronicling and adding to the pop-culture fringes since the mid-1960s. He published his first amateur publication about comic books and cartooning just as he turned thirteen. It was for his popular fanzine Sense of Wonder that Schelly became widely known to the comics community.

Bill’s first book published in hardcover was Harry Langdon: His Life and Films, a biography of the brilliant comedian of silent films (Scarecrow Press, 1982).

In early 1986, Schelly and a partner opened the first comics specialty store in Seattle’s University District: Super Comics & Collectibles. Though his involvement in the store was short-lived, Bill’s fascination with the comics field had been thoroughly reawakened by the experience. He began researching the history of comic-book fandom in 1991, which resulted in the book The Golden Age of Comic Fandom in 1995, which was nominated for a Will Eisner Comics Industry Award.

More recently, Bill wrote a well-received memoir of his teenage years in fandom titled Sense of Wonder: A Life in Comic Fandom, and a biography of the great comic book and science fiction writer, Otto (“Eando”) Binder titled Words of Wonder.

In 1998, he became Associate Editor of the Eisner Award-winning magazine Alter Ego, a post he holds to the present day. As a recognized comic-book historian, Schelly has written introductions to ten of the DC Archives books.

He has also been a guest-lecturer on film history classes at the University of Washington.

Recently, Bill rewrote and expanded his biography of Harry Langdon for McFarland Company, Inc. His most recent book; the much-anticipated biography Man of Rock: A Biography of Joe Kubert, from Fantagraphics, is due in September.

Thus, he continues his penchant for exploring the byways of American popular culture.

Bill will be appearing at Oafcon both Friday and Saturday with his books and Alter-Ego magazines. They will be offered for sale at his table.

WHAT WILL THE CONVENTION BE LIKE?

We are not a modern day comic book show. No artist alleys, no gaming, no media presentations, no anime, no new comics. What we will have is 45 tables filled with old collectibles of all kinds. Comic Books, Pulps, Paperbacks, Movie Posters, Radio Show Premiums, Original Comic and Fantasy Art, Big-little-Books, Newspapers, Board Games, Series Books, Sheet Music, Dime Novels and more!

The collectors and dealers who are attending this show will mostly have pre-1980 items! It will be a super paper collectibles show !! No other show like it !! Don't miss out!

Admission is only $5.00 and good for BOTH DAYS !! A few dealers tables remain at $50.00. Reserve your room NOW at the Biltmore Hotel. Last year they sold out due to other events at the hotel. Rooms are ~ $65 for a double!! http://www.biltmoreokc.com/ OAFCON 2008 hours will be Friday and Saturday 10 am to 7 pm.

O.A.F. stands for Oklahoma Alliance of Fans, a group of long time collectors who sponsored comic book, star trek and nostalgia conventions in Oklahoma City and Tulsa in the 1970's-80's. We are back after a 25 year absence and hosting this collectors convention.

For more details about the show please visit http://oafcon2008.blogspot.com/

Con News and Assorted Tidbits

marknick4@yahoo.com (Mark Allen) — Sun, 17 Aug 2008 15:33:48 -0500

Wow. Hard to believe it's been over three weeks since my last post. We've been back for almost a week, and I've decided two-week vacations aren't all they're cracked up to be. I'd already grown bored and ready to come home nine or ten days in. That being said, however, let's catch up.

DEFCON 7

The Con was a blast! 'Course, I may not be the best judge of that, since my last one was 11 years ago. It was a Defcon, as well.

One of the most enlightening experiences I had while there was speaking with the creator of Marvel's Ghost Rider (the guy on the motorcycle, not the horse), Gary Friedrich. He spent a generous amount of time talking with me about his experiences in the Marvel Bullpen, working with the likes of Stan Lee and Roy Thomas. We also talked about the difference between horror writers who create and use mood to creep out readers, and those who ATTEMPT horrific story-telling simply by employing shock and gore. Big difference in there, somewhere. Gary's a great guy, and fun to talk to.

I also received a breathtaking Batman/Deathstroke sketch from Steve Erwin, which is pictured below. Steve is one of the more low-key professionals in comics. Extremely talented, completely approachable, and not a hint of self-awareness, he's one of my favorites in the business. Without going into detail, I'll also say he's one of the more reasonable artists out there, not charging fans an arm and a leg for his work.

Be sure to click that sketch, by the way, to do it real justice.

Probably most memorable, however, was the time I spent speaking with Michael Vance, creator and co-author of the Suspended Animation column. We communicate primarily by email and the occasional phone call, so it's always nice to get to spend a few hours with the guy, talking about family, church, comics..., you know, the important stuff in life. (Michael will be writing his last S.A. column in a few months - more on that further down.) Thanks for letting me hang out at your table, buddy!

Of course, it wouldn't be a proper con report if I didn't brag on at least ONE back issue acquisition. The one I consider the most important is the very first 3-D comic, published in 1953. Three Dimension Comics, which stars Mighty Mouse, can actually boast Joe Kubert as a contributor. I'm not sure even the Overstreet Price Guide makes note of that. And, hey, those are probably Golden Age stains on the cover, too!

Top the Con off with family trips to the Oklahoma Aquarium (an amazing place) and the Tulsa Zoo, and lots of quality time with extended family, and it makes it a vacation to remember.

And, yet, we were THRILLED to be home again. Isn't it funny how that works?

Well, again, in the spirit of catching up, here's the review that should have gone up last weekend.

---------------------

The Dare Detectives, published by Dark Horse Books, 96 pages, digest-sized, $5.95

“Frantic” is defined, in part, as “done in a hurried and chaotic way.” It is also the first word that comes to my mind when describing the first issue of The Dare Detectives. Understand, I mean that in the very best way.

First of all, “frantic” describes the action, which nearly runs from the first to the last page. It is action that is peppered with good humor throughout. It is almost as if the 100-mile-an-hour doings are more of a set-up for the ha-ha’s than action for action’s sake. And I did, by the way. “Ha-ha” that is.

The humor is something like a cross between Looney Tunes and the late-80's era Justice League by Keith Giffen and J.M. DeMatteis. With a funny talking rabbit. I bet some of you will “ha-ha” as well.

The subdued sequences come at the right times and serve their purpose of setting up more conflict and action.

The characters themselves show hints of interesting characterization. Though, as of the first issue, they do take a back seat to the star of the show, The Action.

All of this is to say that creator/writer Ben Caldwell did a good job writing his baby. His timing, sense of drama and humor (Have I mentioned humor...?) are to be admired. Before Detectives, I couldn’t tell you the last time a comic book made me laugh.

“Frantic” also describes Caldwell’s art style. It reminds me of the work of Tex Avery and Kyle Baker, but still has it’s own flair and sense of Saturday morning “cartoony” fun. It is so charged with kinetic energy, I can imagine the artist scribbling away at his drawing table, while flailing about wildly, acting the scenes out as he puts a story together, ala Stan Lee.

I discovered Detectives late, as it was published in 2004. Better late than never. MUCH better. Highly recommended for teens and up.

Review by Mark Allen

-------------------

Finally, Michael Vance will be wrapping up his 20-year tenure on Suspended Animation in a few months. I have to admit, the thought of continuing the column without him is a bit scary. More than anything, however, I am grateful that he "brought me in" eight years ago. Thanks for the confidence in me, Michael. I'll keep cranking out the reviews in the hopes of bringing in new adult readers, the same reason you started Suspended Animation all those years ago.

Anyway, following is Michael's farewell address, which went out Friday in place of the usual weekly review.

--------------------

I grew up in the 1950s in a small town of about 12,000 to 15,000 people named Seminole in Oklahoma. Among the first things I began to read on my own were comic strips and comic books. I have loved the artform almost all of my life, and it was Alley Oop, Captain Easy, Superman and Herbie, among many other titles, that inspired me to become a writer. That’s why it’s difficult to say goodbye.

In my life, I was blessed with the opportunity to write many columns about comics, publish many interviews with comics writers and artists, write a history book about the artform, and found the Oklahoma Cartoonists Collection inside the Toy and Action Figure Museum in Paul’s Valley, Oklahoma.

I also created this column.

On February of 1989, I wrote: “The truth, however, is that there are comics for adults, and they are capable of looking profoundly into the human condition”, and Suspended Animation was born.

I also wrote: “The purpose of this new weekly column is to review the best and worst in comics. We will review comics written and drawn solely to entertain as well as comics with political, religious, and philosophical slants”.

In February of 2009, I will have gladly done so for twenty years. At that time, I will retire from Suspended Animation.

At the height of its popularity, it was published in dozens of newspapers and magazines, featured on more than one hundred websites, and read by four million folks interested in comics.

It’s been a blast.

Suspended Animation will continue under the capable pen of current co-author and comics fan Mark Allen.

I thank the readers of this column for allowing me to write about a first love, and thank Mark for continuing the weekly column.

See ya in the funny pages.

Michael Vance

Defcon 7 Closing In

marknick4@yahoo.com (Mark Allen) — Fri, 25 Jul 2008 21:33:18 -0500

Defcon 7 is now just a week away! Wherever you are, whatever you're doing, drop it now (unless it's explosive, fine china or a baby) and make plans to attend! While you're there, be sure to stop by and say "Hey" to your favorite reviewers. And, if they don't happen to be there, say something to Michael and I.

Go here for location, ticket information, guest roster and the like.

- Mark

Batman Special #1, published by DC Comics, 48 pages, cover price $1.25

marknick4@yahoo.com (Mark Allen) — Fri, 25 Jul 2008 19:35:29 -0500

In honor of the theatrical release of The Dark Knight, I present to you one of the better Batman stories from the eighties, found in 1984's Batman Special #1.

The premise is straightforward, but intriguing. On the same night which saw the murder of young Bruce Wayne’s parents, a similar scenario played out in another part of Gotham City. Where the Waynes were taken by the bullets of a villain, however, the lives of another boy’s parents were claimed by the service revolver of officer Jim Gordon, Gotham’s future police commissioner. Now, Batman must protect Gordon from a man intent on taking murderous revenge on the City’s top cop.

Writer Mike W. Barr pitches fans an engrossing story, wherein Batman comes face to face with “the player on the other side,” or, as the Dark Knight himself puts it, “My opposite number, a man as skilled, as obsessed as I am.” Even for those more familiar with the big screen interpretation of the character than his comics, I have to believe such a concept would be found interesting. To die-hard fans? Irresistible. I know. I am one.

Captivating plot notwithstanding, the icing on this sequential cake is the art of comics legend Michael Golden. With a flair for drama and detail, Golden gives readers emotive characters, action sequences that fairly crackle with energy, and a storytelling style that is as smooth as you’ll see from many of the industry’s “greats.” And with 25-year veteran inker Mike DeCarlo backing him up, this is also one of the best-looking Batman stories from the afore-mentioned eighties. (Ah, good times!)

So, again, with The Dark Knight in mind, may I suggest this work as the next big screen adaption? No, you say? Too late.

Batman Special #1 is recommended for any and all comics fans, because it’s comics done right. Find it at comics shops, as well as online retailers and auctions.

Review by Mark Allen

--------------

A couple of notes: Michael Golden will be appearing at Tulsa's DefCon 7, August 1st, 2nd and 3rd. Make plans to attend and get a commission!

Also, the Wrath character recently made a return to Batman comics, and enjoyed an appearance (along with a teenage sidekick) in the final season of The Batman at the beginning of 2008. Read about it here.

Stinz - From 2000

marknick4@yahoo.com (Mark Allen) — Thu, 24 Jul 2008 22:04:01 -0500

Stinz is original. Original means "the first", not imitative, new, inventive, creative. Donna Barr.

That does not mean this comic book or anything praised as original is exceptionally good or bad. It does mean that you will either love or hate Stinz.

I am in love.

It was love at first sight because cartoonist Donna Barr's art is unique. Technically flawless, its heavy line and contrasting blocks of black and white are reminiscent of woodcuts or the work of H.G. Peters, the first artist on the comic book Wonder Woman. It is reminiscent, not imitative, because Barr's work has something these predecessors sometimes lacked, an energy that leaps off the pages.

Love deepened as Stinz and I got to know one another. Barr's dialog is natural but spattered with German phrases that require a bit of interpretation. Translations are always provided. Her characters are wonderfully developed and believable despite the fact that the majority of their bodies belong bolted on a carousal. In addition, Barr has the ability to transform mundane events into fascinating drama and humor.

So, what is this Stinz comic book all about already!? It is about half-men and half-horses, and a man-faced horse. It is about German centaurs that were mutated after a nuclear war, other mutated beings that fit no mythological pattern, and the non-mutated people who live among them.

This particular issue has a deceptively simple plot, the ramifications of a found machine gun.

Now you know I was horsing around, and why Stinz is original and good.

Neigh, excellent.

Stinz #8 is highly recommended. You must also buy: Horsebrush and Other Tales, Charger, The Ninjery, Family Values, Old Man Out, The Bob War, Bum Steer, A Stranger To Our Kind, A Marvelous Resistance and A Dog's Life.

Review by Michael Vance

Stinz #8 is priced at $6.00 and is 64 pages. Published by Fine Line Press and sold in comics shops, over the internet and by mail.

Starman - From 2000

marknick4@yahoo.com (Mark Allen) — Thu, 24 Jul 2008 21:53:12 -0500

Some stories are so good, it's hard to read just one 32-page pamphlet at a time. Such is the case with D.C. Comics' Starman.

Chances are, once you sit down to read "Sins of the Father," the first trade paperback (a collection of past issues), you will want to continue with "Night and Day," "A Wicked Inclination," and "Times Past," the only four t.p.'s published at this time.

Jack Knight is the son of scientist Ted Knight, the original Starman of W.W.II. He loves old things; antiques, old movies, old magazines, you name it. The only old things Jack doesn't like are the stories of his father's adventures as a costumed hero. He scoffs at the thought of grown men running around in brightly-colored spandex costumes, and finds it laughable that his older brother chose to follow in their father's footsteps as the next Starman.

He continues to ridicule and chide, until his brother is struck down and killed by a sniper's bullet. Now, pursued by his brother's murderer, who seeks to acquire the cosmic rod, the creation which allowed Ted Knight to become Starman, Jack is thrust into the role he once found such a joke; he is the new Starman.

Despite the premise, Starman is not your basic super hero comic. The fact that Jack Knight despises the spandex scene, and decides to take up his father's mantle on his own terms is a big part of what makes this title so entertaining. From my own experience talking to readers, it's possible that this book appeals as much to fans of alternative comic books as it does to hard core superhero readers.

Writer James Robinson uses great characterization to draw the reader in, and penciler Tony Harris mesmerizes same reader with one of the most aesthetically pleasing art styles in comics today; expressive, yet highly stylized.

Recommended.

Published by D.C. Comics, 152 pages, $12.95.

Review by Mark Allen

Spyboy - From 2000

marknick4@yahoo.com (Mark Allen) — Thu, 24 Jul 2008 21:22:26 -0500

Spyboy's Peter David has a reputation for puns. As his newest boy slams a bully's head against a toilet, Alex yells "Here! Lemme crown you with the throne!"

Did I mention they are bad puns?

Peter David also has a reputation for tightly scripted romps that leave his readers wanting more. Spyboy is more.

Alex is Spyboy, and a teenager brutalized by his schoolmates. Only his imagination saves his sanity during ugly situations. Much more you won't learn from the first issue.

The first issue of a new comic book series is always tricky. There usually isn't enough room to offer detailed plot and character development, but most comics fans only give a creative team one of two issues to build an audience. So a taste of things to come must really whet the appetite.

Spyboy is whet and wild. (See, Peter, I can also do it.)

Some excellent art, heavily influenced by Japanese manga (big shoes, shocks of tousled hair and huge eyes), adds just the right visual spice as well.

What more can I say?

Buy it.

Review by Michael Vance

Spider-Man/Kingpin: To the Death - From 2000

marknick4@yahoo.com (Mark Allen) — Tue, 22 Jul 2008 21:37:51 -0500

Spider-Man has gone berserk, preying on the criminals of New York City.

The bullet-ridden corpses of both small-time crooks and "made men" are turning up, with witnesses screaming the same statement made by the evidence; Spider-Man has turned killer!

This is all news, however, to Peter Parker, aka Spider-Man, as he finds himself hunted by the law and superheroes alike. Only one member of the super-powered community believes Spidey is innocent, and it is the man who may know him best of all; Daredevil. Together, the two masked adventurers go into action to prove the innocence of ol' Webhead, and uncover a diabolical scheme involving a "mad" scientist, a strength-enhancing, but deadly serum called "Death's Arrow," and the ever-dangerous Kingpin of Crime.

This is the premise of the 1997 Marvel work, Spider-Man/Kingpin: To the Death, which is worth a look by all long-time comic fans for two very good reasons; Stan Lee and John Romita Sr.

Lee, co- creator of such memorable characters as Spider-Man, the Fantastic Four, the Hulk, the X-men and Daredevil, writes this titanic tale. It is perfectly illustrated by Romita, the man whose notoriety as a Spider-Man artist among silver age fans may be surpassed only by Steve Ditko, Spidey's co-creator. Together, the two manage to weave a tale that is fresh, and yet possesses just the slightest bit of nostalgia.

One of the most enjoyable elements of this story is the character-switch that seems to take place as Daredevil, normally possessing a cooler head than the Web-slinger, has the Death's Arrow introduced into his system. Going after the Kingpin with a vengeance, D.D. must be found and calmed by Spidey, who must administer the antidote before the serum runs it's deadly course.

Masterful storytelling, and superior artwork that is definitive of these two characters, awaits the reader who finds this back-issue treasure at their local comic store.

Check it out.

Spiderman/Kingpin: To the Death, ©1997 Marvel Comics, priced at $5.99.

Review by Mark Allen

Sluggy Freelance #3: When Holidays Attack - From 2000

marknick4@yahoo.com (Mark Allen) — Tue, 22 Jul 2008 21:30:49 -0500

"Yeah," remarks Torg pointing to a newspaper story on the Y2K computer "bug", "they are fixing all the major systems, but some are low on the totem pole, like..."

"Beer distribution," finishes Riff.

"In the year 2000, beer may be impossible to get," adds Torg.

"We can't RISK being vague on this!" moans Riff, the inventor of their time machine. "We HAVE to know what the future holds!"

What it holds for readers is a bucketful of yucks based on wild parodies of movies in "When Holidays Attack", the third Sluggy Freelance comic strip collection from Plan Nine Publishing.

Torg and Riff are two twenty-something slackers who spend their days doing mundane chores. Battling demons from Hell. Slow-dancing with a mummy. Feeding Bun-Bun, the switchblade totting bunny rabbit. Flirting with Muffin, the Vampire Baker. You know; the usual stuff.

Not to be outdone by their supporting cast, they also tote. Their weapon is the human tongue, always firmly planted in the human cheek.

The adventures of Riff, Torg, Gwynn, Zoe and Aylee (Torg's alien secretary) are drawn in a scratchy style that lies somewhere between Peanuts and Archie Andrews. Just for variety, lots of ink washes occasionally are effectively applied to some strips for God-only-knows-what reason. It is probably to make Santa Claus more ominous looking as he sends a mechanical rabbit to destroy the Easter bunny.

"I present to you MECHA-EASTER-BUNNY!" screams Santa. "This unstoppable force has but one goal...to destroy Bun-Bun!"

An elf whispers in Santa's ear.

"Two goals!" adds Santa. "To destroy Bun-Bun and DELIVER EASTER EGGS!"

The elf whispers yet again.

"Three goals!! To destroy Bun- Bun, deliver Easter Eggs and DESTROY TOKYO!"

You get the idea.

Sluggy is sprinkled with infrequent profanity (which means this strip never ran in mainstream newspapers), but is still recommended for all but the youngest of readers.

Sluggy Freelance #3 "When Holidays Attack" is 159 pages and priced at $12.95. By cartoonist Pete Abrams, it is sold in book stores and at www.plan9.org.

Review by Michael Vance

The Simpsons Forever! - From 2000

marknick4@yahoo.com (Mark Allen) — Tue, 22 Jul 2008 21:21:16 -0500

You’ll go blind if you don’t stop doing that. That’s because the type in The Simpsons Forever! trade paperback is smaller than Homer Simpson’s brain.

But won't be able to stop... laughing. Tee-hee.

But why, mighty critic, are you reviewing an 89-page trade paperback ($12.95, published by Harper Perennial, sold in book stores) when Suspended Animation is dedicated to finding comic books that would appeal to adults?

Duuh. Because I want to. Because The Simpsons Forever is comic and a book, and because I got it free for Christmas.

And because of funny stuff from Moe the bartender, like: "Assault weapons have gotten a lot of bad press lately, but they're manufactured for a reason: to take out today's modern super animals, such as the flying squirrel and the electric eel."
The Simpsons Forever is an extremely comprehensive guide to the ninth and tenth seasons of the most popular animated television show in history. Each entry includes a plot summary, a character profile, "The Stuff You May Have Missed", hilarious quotes, and lots of art.

"The Stuff You May Have Missed" is a list of the tiny visual and verbal gags sprinkled throughout every episode. These include oddball signs (an airport sign reads, "Birthplace of Wind Shear"), strange cameo appearances by minor characters, and satiric theme music (a band plays the theme to the TV show "Sanford and Son" after reinstating the sanitation commissioner).

Trivia buffs receive added titters.

As an added bonus, the book ends with a tribute to the character Troy McClure, the visual gags on the Simpson couch that open each show, a listing of which actor supplies which voice, the songs sung by the Simpsons, and a collection of profane, er, profound sayings from Homer.

You still doubt the mighty reviewer's motives? Okay. The real reason this trade paperback was reviewed is that Marge Simpson's profound observation about critics needed airing.

Marge: "You know, Homer, it's very easy to criticize."

Homer: "Fun, too."

Yesssssssss!!!

Buy it.

Review by Michael Vance

Shock Rockets - From 2000

marknick4@yahoo.com (Mark Allen) — Tue, 22 Jul 2008 21:13:36 -0500

Kurt Busiek is a more-than-competent writer as most comic readers who have indulged themselves in this medium for any substantial amount of time know. For that reason, it may come as no surprise to hear praise for his most recent creation, Shock Rockets.

Alejandro Cruz is a disenchanted young man, not content to be a treatment plant worker like his family members. Unfortunately, in a world recovering from a war with an alien race, some people get no choice about what they will do, or how they will fit in a society still being reconstructed. Alejandro does have a skill, however, he is gifted in mechanics and electronics, and daydreams of a life as part of the Shock Rockets.

The Rockets are a group of professional pilots in state-of-the-art aircraft, and on the frontline of Earth's defenses. But when one of the Shock Rockets is shot down during battle by one of Earth's most successful military men gone renegade, Cruz gets the chance to show what he can do as he commandeers the craft.

Shock Rockets is entertaining from start to finish. Busiek does a wonderful job setting up background information on the characters and the world in which they live. Indications from issue one are that Busiek is setting up a story that will be of great interest to science fiction and action fans alike.

At the same time, however, characterization is not sacrificed. Alejandro's frustration with his family's expectations for his future "shovelin' algae", makes the reader anxious to see him do something better, and more meaningful. Eliciting such feelings for a character in this day and age is worth more than a dozen different multiple covers.

Stuart Immonen's artwork is right on the money. He is a great action-oriented artist, and also has a talent for characterization.

With Immonen and Busiek at the helm, and fan word of mouth, Shock Rockets could be Gorilla Comics' first big hit.

Shock Rockets is 32 pages and priced at $2.50 from Gorilla Comics. Published by Image Comics.

Review by Mark Allen

The Shadow and Doc Savage - From 2000

marknick4@yahoo.com (Mark Allen) — Mon, 21 Jul 2008 22:43:52 -0500

Who knows what prenatal nostalgia lurks in the hearts of men? Suspended Animation knows.

Prenatal nostalgia is the sentimental longing for things that existed before you were born. For readers slapping foreheads and muttering 'duh', I don't understand either. But I love old radio shows, movie serials, comic strips, toys, advertising, and pulp magazines popular before the'50s. I love Doc Savage and The Shadow, and read their new comic book with great prenatal nostalgia. And put it down with great-unfulfilled prenatal nostalgia.

It wasn't the comic; it was me.

The writing is clean, full of action and the touch marks of both characters. Doc's copper skullcap, Empire State building headquarters, and sidekicks Ham and Monk are here. Lamont's Penetrating eyes, network of agents, barking guns and huge black cape and slouch hat are everywhere. I hear his haunting, eerie laugh established by the radio show.

In this two issue mini-series, "The Case Of The Shrieking Skeletons," skeletal horrors invade New York City and the heroic figures of Doc and The Shadow butt heads as the mystery unravels.

The plot is perfect for both weird monsters, Nazis, secret serums, beautiful women, zeppelins and autogryros add to the 30's period flavor.

The art is crisp, exciting and perfectly suited to its subject. Icons of the '30s add spice to almost every page, and violence is threatening without being excessively bloody.

But that same warm familiarity underlying nostalgia that also demands new material hold true to old standards can also produce big yawns if nothing new is added.

Nothing new is added. Recommended for those with an unjaded eye.

Michael Vance

Revivals and Births - From 2000

marknick4@yahoo.com (Mark Allen) — Sun, 20 Jul 2008 21:21:51 -0500

Those who collect first issues of comic books have several new titles to consider.

Since the 1980s, DC Comics has owned the characters created by defunct Charlton Comics. DC's first two versions of those characters appeared in Crisis on Infinite Earths. Many wound up in their own series and enjoyed varying degrees of success; e.g., Blue Beetle, Peacemaker, the Question, etc.

A new Six-issue series, The L.A.W., brings the Charlton heroes together as a team including some DC has rarely used, such as Judomaster. (L.A.W.=Living Assault Weapons). The first two issues are good. The first has some good humor in comparing Judomaster to Marvel's Captain America. Give this an A or A-.

Another six-issue series from DC revives the title The Brave and the Bold for a series of Flash and Green Lantern teamup stories. These are the Barry Allen and Hal Jordan versions of the characters rather than Wally West and Kyle Rayner.

The first story seems to be set sometime after the events of the twelve-issue JLA: Year One series. Fans of the classic Flash-Green Lantern crossovers of the 1960s will be pleasantly surprised although the art is not as good as that of Carmine Infantino and Gil Kane.

Marvel Comics is also busy with new titles. Wild Thing is based on young Rina Logan, the future daughter of Elektra and the ever-popular Wolverine. Rina has popped up in several of Marvel's titles and has become popular quickly. Whether a character with such violent and amoral parents can fit into an American high school remains to be seen.

Galactus the Devourer is a six- issue series based on yet another attack on Earth by Galactus. There are some novel elements in the first two issues, particularly Alicia Masters as a super heroine, but we've been down this road too often.

The third new title from Marvel is Deathlok. This is at least the third version of this character. The art is interesting.

Give all three Marvels Bs.

Review by Dr. Jon Suter

The Rhinegold #1-3 - From 2000

marknick4@yahoo.com (Mark Allen) — Sun, 20 Jul 2008 19:31:26 -0500

Its official title must be among the longest in comics history: The Ring of the Nibelung, Book One, The Rhinegold. Chapter One: "The Rape of the Gold". With luck, it will also be long remembered.

To make a long review short, The Rhinegold is a powerful and entertaining adaptation of a Richard Wagner opera in which, thankfully, you won't have to listen to the fat lady sing. You will, however, have to read an engaging story of theft and adventure among Scandinavian gods, and enjoy some of the best art in the comics medium.

If you haven't seen the opera, you'll be surprised at how heavy a debt fantasy novelist J.R.R. Tolkein owes to Wagner for the inspiration for Tolkein's Lord of the Rings.

You'll also be amazed at how heavy a debt superhero comic books in general owe to Wagner and mythology, especially the work of the late artist and writer Jack Kirby. The melodrama of epic opera is no stranger to comic books.

That debt becomes obvious as Alberich of the Nibelungs steals a block of gold that holds a power awesome enough to frighten the god Votan (Odin). The dwarfish Nibelungs are masters of metalcraft, and Alberich makes a ring from The Rhinegold. Votan, with the help of Loge (Loki) and Donner(Thor) must steal that ring to ransom his wife's sister from a deal poorly struck with two giant brothers.

The deal struck between readers and this column has always been for your humble reviewers to find comic book titles that adults will enjoy. Our contract is fulfilled: we have struck gold.

The only criticism offered is that Russell needs four of six extra hands so that he can produce more of some of the best work in comics history.

The Rhinegold is highly recommended for all ages.

A 4-part series at 26 pages each. Priced at $2.95, published by Dark Horse Comics. Art: P. Craig Russell; text: Patrick Mason.

Michael Vance

Psychonaut #3 - From 2000

marknick4@yahoo.com (Mark Allen) — Sun, 20 Jul 2008 19:20:33 -0500

Published by Monster Pants Comics, an off-center collection of introspective thoughts from Serbian cartoonist Aleksandar Zograf.

Flip this magazine over, and it becomes a brief preview of an independent film called The Pursuers. You will flip over both.

Both features are drawn in a scratchy, abstract style reminiscent of 1960's underground comics. That means neither artist is as interested in an exact representation of reality as in an interpretation of reality filtered through the artist's life experiences. The same observation is true of the subjects and prose styles chosen.

Psychonaut is an almost surreal but visual diary of Aleksandar's philosophical musings. Unlike similar American titles that whine about how life stinks, this title is saved from banality because it is not cheapened by self-loathing.

Also introspective and subjective, The Pursurers is more plot oriented, and effectively will pique reader's interest in seeing the film.

Both serve their purposes: to communicate the personalities and life observations of their creators in an entertaining and precise way.

Bravo.

Review by Michael Vance

Out For Blood - From 2000

marknick4@yahoo.com (Mark Allen) — Sun, 20 Jul 2008 19:14:04 -0500

The best writing and art rises above the conventions of its genre.

Prepare yourself for a leg up.

Out For Blood is about a tough-as-nails cop who fights vampires, and the conventions or clichés of the tough cop story and the vampire genre are certainly everywhere. Policemen in trench coats. A victimized, beautiful woman. Bats and blood. But this new comic book mini-series is much better than its premise, and bigger than its clichés. Out is intense, gripping storytelling.

One way it "rises above" or improves on genre conventions is through the mastery of technique. In a field cluttered with artists who fake anatomy, perspective, proportion, and the techniques of representational art, artist Gary Erskine flies above the maddening crowd. Except for several minor problems in the panel-to-panel story flow in the second issue, his visual storytelling is flawless, his style is distinctive, and his staging is excellent. Especially appreciated is his subdued approach to graphic violence.

In an art form cluttered with editors and artists who think art is more important than words, writers Michael Part and Steven Grant understand the real strength of comic bodes -- a flawless marriage of art and words in which one compensates for the weaknesses of the other. Their dialog is believable and crisp and thankfully mostly free of profanity. Their characters are also well delineated for the limited space available in comic books, and also believable.

Art alone simply cannot tell complicated stories, express complex ideas, or develop characters rich in detail. Words alone simply lack the visceral, immediate impact of art and the ability to convey tons of information in a single image.

Out For Blood is art for story's sake, and story for art's sake, and a fun read for fans of both the detective and suspense genres. It ain't Shakespeare, but it ain't Police Academy either, and Out is recommended for mature readers.

Review by Michael Vance

Scion, volume 6

marknick4@yahoo.com (Mark Allen) — Sun, 20 Jul 2008 16:11:02 -0500

Scion V. 6 (reprinting CrossGen issues 34-39)/153 pgs. & $17.95 from Checker Book Publishing, principal artist, Jim Cheung; Ron Marz, writer/sold in comics shops and at www.checkerbpg.com.

Imagine the 'knights and damsels' comic strip Prince Valiant sprinkled with pseudo light sabers and aliens and you've pictured Scion, a comic book series that ran for thirty-nine issues before its original publisher went out of business.

Scion: Royal Wedding republishes the last six issues of the monthly series as a trade paperback. These issues recount the convoluted tale of a forced marriage between members of two warring peoples. But plot and subplots that verge on soap opera overkill are restrained by the author, and Scion reads like a fantasy novel.

Restraint is the key word is this review. If you are looking for long, epic, bloody battles laced with lots of preliminary action, you won't find it here. What you will find is lots of dialog sprinkled with a sword fight or two, solid characterization, and enough back-story to make everything interesting.

You'll also find reality-based art that well serves its story. It is, however, not spectacular art. Everything needed to tell a story visually is well done, but the artists, at least at this point in their careers, are not the next, hot-new-things in the fickle world of comics fandom.

If you've noticed that the terms "well serves" and "interesting" are average terms, you’ve understood the nuances of this review. If, however, you believe Scion is not here recommended for readers, you are mistaken.

Average is not bad. It means that half of the titles published are poor compared to Scion.

Although it lacks the original vision of a Tolkein, or an original point of view (i.e. style), Scion is a solid bit of adventure storytelling that deserves the attention of fantasy fans.

Michael Vance

Animated Marvel Madness

marknick4@yahoo.com (Mark Allen) — Sun, 20 Jul 2008 15:50:55 -0500

I found a must-visit site for fans of Marvel animation and Marvel history buffs. Marvel Animation Age tips the "Is it cool?" scales to "Unbelievably so!" With links to sites that deal with Marvel cartoons from the '60's to the present, you won't be disappointed with the sights (video clips of opening segments), sounds (downloadable theme music), episode guides, history lessons and interviews dealing with some of Marvel's most memorable animated ventures. Not to mention what looks like a couple of pretty active forums.

Be sure to check it out!

Mark

BBC's "Bonekickers" Angers Some Viewers

marknick4@yahoo.com (Mark Allen) — Mon, 14 Jul 2008 22:07:53 -0500

Some people seem to be pretty upset over the depiction of a radical Christian beheading a Muslim in a recent BBC program. It happened on a t.v. show entitled "Bonekickers". You can find the BBC's response to the criticism here.

It's not surprising that this would upset some Christians. After all, it's not like this story is "ripped from the headlines" - When was the last time you heard about such a violent act committed in the name of Christianity ANYWHERE in the world? On the other hand, where Muslim extremists are concerned..., well, you can finish that thought.

Am I disturbed by it? Not really. I've come to expect the liberal media, in practically all of it's forms, to do it's best to cast Christianity (and, especially evangelicals) in a negative light. And, it doesn't get much more liberal than the BBC. Additionally, I have confidence in the majority of viewers, Christian or not, to see through such thinly-veiled prejudice.

There is one certainty in all of this: You won't hear or read a single story about any Christians rioting, making death threats or participating in any other violent behavior as a result of Bonekickers. Again, there's a stark contrast to be found there...

Mark Allen

(Go here to see feedback on the program.)

The Metabarons - From 2000

marknick4@yahoo.com (Mark Allen) — Mon, 14 Jul 2008 12:26:20 -0500

(Cover to Metabarons vol. 1)

What do you get when you combine aspects of a space opera with symbols from ancient Japan and the middle ages, along with solid storytelling, fantastic characterization, and eye-popping artwork? You get something that keeps a reader anxiously coming back to his local comic shop for more. You get a project which, having had a somewhat quiet launch, causes readers jumping on at the latest issue (#7) to clamor excitedly after the previous six. In short, you get The Metabarons, one of the best science fiction stories to come down the pike, in any form in years.

Creators Alexandro Jodorowsky and Juan Gimenez have done something that many comic professionals have failed to do; they have created an extremely entertaining series that is a perfect example of the kind of material that brings new readers into the genre. The original Metabaron, created by Jean Giraud (Moebius), appeared in The Incal, a series published by the Swiss company Les Humanoides Associes, in the early '90's. Readers do not, however, have to know anything about those early appearances in order to enjoy this intelligent, beautifully rendered series.

As fresh as it is riveting The Metabarons should appeal to those who enjoy good sci-fi, as well as fans of great super-hero action. The story of a galaxy's greatest warrior caste unfolds for the reader through two robotic characters; Tonto and Lothar. As the former relates the past adventures of Metabarons to his robotic partner, an excited Lothar asks questions likely in the minds of readers. These interludes provide a sometimes comedic release of tension in the midst of what is basically a tragic story. According to writer Jodorowsky, this serves to connect readers to the story, "..because it's as if he's a party to secrets between two robots, one of them just as much in the dark as the reader is." (Issue #1)

It works. Find out how well by checking out your local comic shop's back issue bin.

Review by Mark Allen

Batman: Gotham Knight

marknick4@yahoo.com (Mark Allen) — Sun, 13 Jul 2008 00:35:29 -0500

I picked this video up at Wal-Mart today in Guymon, Oklahoma. I'm not sure what I expected. I mean, I knew that it was being produced by Japanese animators, but I have literally NONE of that kind of animated material in my video library. Heck, I barely have any manga in my comics collection. (Yeah, I'm an OLD comics/animation fan.)

So, without going into any detail (I review comics, not videos.), I'll just say it was worth the 25-dollar investment, as I went for the two-disc collector's edition with the extra bonus material.

As I began to watch, it did take some getting used to, however. Let's face it, this is a huge departure from the Batman Animated Series material of the '90's - especially in style, but in substance as well. But I warmed up to it quickly enough. I very much enjoyed "Have I Got a Story For You". This was basically another version of an episode of the Animated series entitled "Legends of The Dark Knight". In both, a group of youngsters swap tales of the Batman, contending what/who they believe him to be. Interesting stuff.

Something struck me during the viewing of the episode "In Darkness Dwells." The appearance, the tone, the mood..., it would seem to be exactly the way any and all Hellboy animated movies should be handled. The animation even LOOKS like it was inspired by Mike Mignola's artwork. (Or, am I wrong?)

Haven't yet gotten to the documentaries on Bob Kane or the villains of Batman, but I'm expecting more entertainment. What can I say? I like the historical material.

Mark

(Hit these sites for REAL reviews of Batman: Gotham Knight: Variety, Newsarama, The Trades, Comic Vine, Action Figure, Flick Direct, Anime News Network....'zat enough? And check out an interview with Bruce Timm at Comic Book Resources.)

The Li’l Depressed Boy, published by Contemporary Cartoon Militia, 14 pages, $2.00

marknick4@yahoo.com (Mark Allen) — Fri, 11 Jul 2008 08:49:41 -0500

Oh, to be a sad, sock-headed boy, living a dreary life, loving music, but being loved by no one.

The Li’l Depressed Boy concerns a young man, still mourning over a tragedy in his past, and forlorn over the lack of affection from any women in his life. That’s the subject. The theme, I believe, is something more. Primarily, that a person shouldn’t let themselves get so caught up in the difficulties that they begin to wallow. It would seem that writer/creator S. Steven Struble is trying to remind us that we all have the ability to lead a better life, if we’ll just get up and make one. What else does one take from the lines, “I need to get out––leave. Find a new love, discover a new life, create a new beginning. Instead, I sit - - trapped in a routine of my own making,” except that we decide ourselves how we live? Indeed, the character asserts such truth in the very next lines.

Despite it’s depressed dialogue and somber tone brought about by the use of black ink on blue paper, The Li’l Depressed Boy actually offers a strange kind of hope for those who feel trapped by their routine, albeit through a kind of “I don’t want to turn out like THAT” vibe.

As for the art, no less than six different artists contributed to this 14-page independent, which, unfortunately, makes for a very bumpy ride, visually. Though it’s an interesting contrast in styles, readers are likely to be distracted from the story. I will admit, however, being impressed by the work of Ed Tadum, who offered the most emotive and detailed style of the bunch.

I only wish I knew why the main character looks like an unfinished sock-monkey.

Though steep at two bucks, and not the most fun you’ll have with comics this year, The Li’l Depressed Boy is recommended, especially for fans of indies.

Find it at www.lildepressedboy.com.

Mark Allen

Kiss: Psycho Circus - From 2000

marknick4@yahoo.com (Mark Allen) — Wed, 09 Jul 2008 23:32:10 -0500

Honest reviewers must sometime kiss and tell.

I was prejudiced. That telling remark means I am no fan of the “musical" group Kiss that is better known for its silly mime makeup and costumes than music. My preference for substance over glitz is not just lip service. Therefore, a Kiss comic book must be bad, right?

I was stunned. Kiss: Psycho Circus has almost nothing to do with Kiss, the rock and roll group. Sorta. Oh, there are lots of advertisements about Kiss toys, books and stuff in its pages, and a letter column that makes it clear readers would like to see more Kiss in the title. It is also true that a Kiss "musician" is seen in only seven panels out of twenty-two pages of story. But this comic book has nothing to do with glitz over substance.

Kiss is about stunning art, dramatic visual storytelling, accurate anatomy and architecture, amazing staging, and an eye for the importance of atmosphere. Artist Clayton Crain's pencils will grab you by the eyeballs, and the inker, colorist and even package designer of this comic book will shake you until your brain hurts.

This issue of Kiss is not so much about story. The writing in this dream sequence is imaginative, the dialog is believable, and even though this was my first Kiss, I had no problem in following events or characters that had been established in earlier issues.

I was entertained.

Since one issue in any series is just a piece of a greater whole, I suspect this greater whole isn't a kiss off either. It is just possible that this is the first comic book series that is better than the subject upon which it is loosely based.

Please believe that my unexpected but final evaluation of the 26th issue of this comic series is not tongue in cheek. Kiss is highly recommended.

Kiss: Psycho Circus #26 is priced at $2.25. Published by Image and written by Brian Holguin. Available in comics shops and by mail.

New Marvel Animated Movie Pits Hulk Against Thor, Wolverine

marknick4@yahoo.com (Mark Allen) — Tue, 08 Jul 2008 23:38:15 -0500

This one's got me all excited. Don't get me wrong, I prefer well-written, intelligent super-duper-hero fare, with nary a shred of goof or camp in sight. But, I'm also still a fanboy at heart. Which is why I was VERY interested to hear of Marvel's animated movie offering slated for January '09 release.

The opening of next year will bring fans a Marvel dvd sporting two epic slugfests: Hulk vs Thor and Hulk vs Wolverine. No, they probably won't be big on characterization, but the action will no doubt feed the need for good ol' fashioned knock-down, drag-out super-powered goings-on!

Now, I can remember being extremely jazzed over the prospect of such battles as a pre-teen reader of comics. More than once I was in awe of the seemingly earth-shattering confrontation(s) between ol' "Jade Jaws" and "Goldilocks". (Oh, what we owe Stan Lee!) And, I still often kick myself for letting Hulk #181 go (for about 20 bucks, at the time) as a 16-year-old vehicle owner, no doubt looking for gas- and "fun"-money.

Well, while this animated venture is not likely to end my decades-long self-criticism for not still owning the first-ever (appearance of and) confrontation between the Canuck of Cutlary and the Irradiated Rampager (Ouch! I'm no Stan!), it's sure to salve my soul.

Click here to read all about it and view the trailer!

Mark Allen

Lazarus: The Many Reincarnations - From 2000

marknick4@yahoo.com (Mark Allen) — Tue, 08 Jul 2008 09:00:45 -0500

The difference between an amateur and an Olympic athlete is often a fraction of a second.

The difference between an amateur and a master cartoonist is often just as small.

As proof, Lazarus: The Many Reincarnations is a new comic book series by an exciting new talent who just barely misses the mark. If such awards existed, Zak Hennessey would be a strong contender for "Most Promising Newcomer of the Year".

Lazarus is an epic adventure set firmly in the storytelling tradition of novelist J.R.R. Tolkien's Lord of the Rings and cartoonist Jeff Smith's Bone.

The Lords of the Dead rise up to overthrow the human warriors of earth. In a last ditch attempt to escape annihilation, a dead champion is literally resurrected as muscle, skin and blood clothe the skeleton of Lazarus, the reluctant but last hope of mankind.

That isn't wildly original, but does offer some nice concepts. So, the fault lies not in the plot of Lazarus. It lies in the telling.

Zak Hennessey's prose occasionally reads like an outline. "Everywhere she runs, there are more [monsters]. Their undead fingers tear at her. Yet she manages to elude them. She breaks through some trees and suddenly sees hope!" Just as unsettling, Hennessey's dialog occasionally sounds stilted and melodramatic.

But, for comic fans who wrongly value art above all else, it is its art that is most troublesome. It is flat. Although the artist's visual storytelling is clear, his pacing crisp, and his characters well staged, the width of his line never seems to vary. That weakens the illusion of depth, perspective and movement, and the ability of readers to suspended disbelief and live inside the story.

Then the difference between this artist and a master cartoonist is the width of a line? That and a polish and personal viewpoint that will come with time, practice and life experience.

Review by Michael Vance

Lazarus: The Many Reincarnations #1 is priced at $2.95 and is 21 pages. It is printed by Lodestone Publishing and is sold in comic shops, by mail, and on the internet.