Tag: Jeff Lemire

Green Arrow #17 Review: Arrows of Outrageous Fortune

Feb. 06 Comic Books, Reviews no comments

Publisher: DC Comics
Writer Jeff Lemire
Artist: Andrea Sorrentino
Release Date: Feb. 6, 2013

 

Well, after a busy end to the fall semester and a busier-than-average break, I’m back to give you my 2 cents on an issue, good or bad. This week, I take aim (pun INCREDIBLY intended) at DC’s Emerald Archer, Green Arrow. With his new creative team of Jeff Lemire and Andrea Sorrentio fresh off of Animal Man  and I, Vampire respectively, this is the third creative team for Oliver Queen since the reboot. With Arrow being a critical and commercial hit on TV, interest in Ollie has been on the rise, and of course fans of the show might head towards the source material.

Green Arrow #17  begins on a somber note. Ollie is alone in what seems to be the Australian Outback without his trademark bow and arrows, and his uniform has been reduced to his hood. He seems to be at an all time low and thinks of himself as a failure whose entire life is a lie. His becoming Green Arrow, a game. And being alone, all he wants to do is DIE alone.

Why? In flashbacks, we find out that three weeks beforehand, someone bought out Queen Industries and Q-Core, and Ollie wants an explanation from Emerson, a man who has been bashing Ollie this entire time at every possible opportunity. It turns out that Emerson’s actually been trying to look out for Ollie and because of that Queen Industries has fallen into malicious hands. Emerson begins to reveal that he was trying to prepare Ollie for a special destiny, a true birthright. But of course, in true film noir fashion, an arrow permanently silences Emerson, and a second pulls him out the window, framing Ollie for murder.

This is where Ollie’s life starts its downward spiral. When he tries to get help from his associates, he finds that they are compromised. An explosion at Q-Core forces him to go to a safe house and get his gear. Of course, he’s attacked there by our mystery archer, a man calling himself Komodo; and he knows Ollie’s secret. He also has Ollie’s trick arrows, which he uses on Green Arrow to great advantage. Komodo also talks about Ollie’s supposed destiny. The final showdown, which includes another new face, gives us more questions than answers. Like any good story, it leaves you wanting more.

Lemire gives us a noir style story wrapped up in superhero clothing. We get mysteries, people framed for crimes they didn’t commit, explosions, assassins, and more questions that will only be partly solved next time. In contrast to the book’s previous writer, Ann Nocenti, who wrote Ollie like a 20-something James Bond, Lemire wants to take Ollie down the path to a mature hero.

The artwork by Sorrentio looks a bit like live action rotoscopted into a comic book, which is interesting. Keeping with only a few colors, it seems to set up the story’s darkness. It’s stunning while being simple. Sorrentio also uses the perspective of both Green Arrow and Komodo to add to the drama and the tension. Small squares within panels show us the little things Ollie is notices and shows his thought process as he takes advantage of what he has and figures out what to do (it’s easier to see than explain). It shows that Ollie has a tactical mind, reinforced when he refers to two security guards coming to arrest him as targets rather than people. However, it feels like they looked at the House That Stan Built (aka Marvel) and cribbed some ideas from the cover to Hawkeye.

Of course the big mystery of the day is “Who is Komodo?” He’s set up to be the big villain, or the major enforcer for whoever is pulling the strings.

Who is our likely baddie? My money is on Tommy Merlyn. Seen on the picture on the right next to Ollie (taken from Green Arrow #0), Tommy was hired as Ollie’s archery teacher and was his friend. Of course, when all hell broke loose, Tommy was badly injured and blamed his injuries and the deaths of those around him on Ollie. At the end of the issue, Talia Al Ghul finds Tommy, and the issue hints that his own training will begin soon. Given the popularity of the character on Arrow, it wouldn’t be too much of a stretch to think this is our introduction to the New 52 Merlyn. Only time, and Lemire, will tell. Until then, we, like the readers of a pulp novel, are sitting on the edge of our seat.

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DC Confidential – Episode 21

Jan. 11 Podcasts no comments
Hey Nerdites! On this week’s episode JP and Sam are joined by Jack and Wayne to talk Dark Universe and its many implications.  They also discuss the disaster that is Cartoon Network and the impact it is having on our favorite shows.  Make sure to tune in to this Justice League Dark spectacular!
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DC Comics And Beyond – Sweet Tooth #40

Jan. 11 DC Comics And Beyond, Editor's Pick, Reviews no comments

DC Comics, New 52, Wayne Hall, Jeff Lemire, Sweet Tooth, Detective Comics, Green Lantern, Earth 2, Wonder Woman

If you see the name “Jeff Lemire” anywhere on a comic, you should buy it! (For those few of you left who don’t already know.)

This week, we come to the end of the road in one of his ongoing titles, Sweet Tooth. It’s a very powerful conclusion that choked me up as I read it.

Here’s the description: “Gus’s journey comes to an end and the fate of the hybrids is revealed in the final issue of the acclaimed Vertigo series!”

I got into this book after Mr. Lemire’s debut in Animal Man when the “New 52” arrived a year and a half ago. I was so smitten by his writing there that I started picking up his other stories, and I now never miss something he’s worked on.

Sweet Tooth is kind of a mix of X-Men and The Walking Dead. There are mutants, but they don’t look like young actors who spend most of their time in the gym, and the world is a dark and grim place, dangerous for man or beast. As always, family plays an important role in a Lemire tale, so pay attention to that.

Unlike the rest of the issues, this one takes several leaps ahead in time so we can see where everyone ends up through stories Gus enjoys telling.

I’m sure with all the wonderful opportunities for Mr. Lemire at DC these days it was a tough choice to bring this title to a close. It’s done so poignantly and profoundly that I couldn’t help but tear up when I got to the final pages.

I loved the cover, which harkens back to the first one, and the appearance of candy bars, which earned Gus the nickname “Sweet Tooth” in the first place.

Then we see a phrase that rarely is found in comics these days: “The End.” Imagine that!

I’m glad I embarked on this wonderful ride as early as I did. If you haven’t read this book, I’m sure collected editions will be coming soon. Be sure you get them!

Rating: 5 out of 5

DC Comics, New 52, Wayne Hall, Jeff Lemire, Sweet Tooth, Detective Comics, Green Lantern, Earth 2, Wonder WomanThis Week’s “New 52” Reviews: Detective Comics #16 continues the epic “Death of the Family” event. Wonder Woman’s daughter Fury appears in Earth 2 #8! Action Comics #16 has Superman taking on Super-Doomsday.  Swamp Thing and Animal Man each continue the “Rotworld” story from the perspective of each main character in his respective title. Green Lantern: New Guardians Annual #1 focuses on Star Sapphire. World’s Finest is another great outing from Paul Levitz, this time with George Perez. Batwing #16 has the hero after Africa’s most wanted. Stormwatch has the permanent transformation of a team member.  This month’s Green Arrow finishes up his battle with Harrow.  The Phantom Stranger meets Justice League Dark. Also, the new Dial H continues its odd ways.

Also out this week are:

DC

  • Human Bomb #2
  • Legends of the Dark Knight #4
  • Smallville Season 11 #9

BOOM!

  • Higher Earth #7
  • Supurbia Ongoing #3

Dynamite!

  • Jim Butcher’s The Dresden Files: Ghoul Goblin #1 of 6

IDW

  • Doctor Who Vol. 3 #4
  • True Blood Ongoing #8

Image

  • Clone #3
  • Guarding the Globe #5
  • Infinite Vacation #5
  • Perhapanauts: Danger Down Under #3
  • The Walking Dead #106

Marvel

  • First X-Men #5
  • Secret Service #5
  • Superior Spider-Man #1

Valiant

  •  Shadowman #3
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Comics Portal: DC Comics and Change

Dec. 10 Comic Books, Comics Portal, Editor's Pick 4 comments

comics, Batgirl, Gail Simone, Scott Snyder, Jeff Lemire, DC Comics, Marvel Comics, Curt Swan, Superman

As a “seasoned” reader of comics, I’m pretty used to change. Characters get new costumes or die, writers and artists come and go, titles are renumbered, etc., etc., etc. I’m actually surprised when things that are good actually stay that way!

That said, I’ve always been a big DC Comics fan. I like their heroes and villains, I prefer their perspective on comics, and I applaud creators who take chances. (I think the “New 52″ is a prime example of taking a risk and having it work out, especially financially.)

This doesn’t mean they’re perfect or always right, though.

One of the biggest criticisms of DC in the last couple of decades has been that they can’t (or don’t) keep the great creators on their books long enough. Often a team will be going for a year, then a new group of folks will come in, which happens again a year later, and again and again until the comic has lost all of its energy and disappears from comics shops. Sadly, this is a valid criticism from my perspective.

Marvel, on the other hand, seems to be able to keep their successful teams together for decades at a time. (To be fair, DC used to be very good at this in times past. For example, how long did Curt Swan draw Superman? A very long time!)

I recently heard some good news, and that focuses on J.M. DeMatteis joining Phantom Stranger as a co-writer. As much as I like Dan DiDio, Mr. DeMatteis is one of the greats when it comes to writing “extranormal” characters, as I like to call them. This will make my buying Stranger a lot happier! Good call!

comics, Batgirl, Gail Simone, Scott Snyder, Jeff Lemire, DC Comics, Marvel Comics, Curt Swan, SupermanSadly, the other end of the spectrum is exemplified by Gail Simone and Batgirl, as was recently reported and discussed by Samantha Cross here on WordoftheNerdOnline.com.

I have to say that I have appreciated Barbara Gordon as Batgirl since the very first time she donned the black, yellow and blue back in the 1960s. She even used a red purse at that time, in that unenlightened era. (Yes, I’m that old!) I was thrilled when I heard she’d be back in her tights again!

And I was very happy to hear that Gail Simone would be writing her comic. I’ve long been a fan of Ms. Simone’s writing. Besides the fact that she can spin a yarn with the best of them, she’s a woman, and I often say that we don’t have enough female comics characters OR creators in the industry.

And things have been going very well in the title since it started over a year ago, in my opinion.

I was very sorry to hear the news that she’s no longer going to be writing Batgirl.

All this leads to two questions: Will I stop buying Batgirl? Will I stop purchasing Ms. Simone’s work in the future?

The answer to both is, succinctly, no. I’m a fan of each, and I will thus continue to buy Batgirl and will be happy to support Ms. Simone in her future endeavors, wherever they take place.

Sometimes comics are like television in that what happens behind the camera influences what we see on the small screen. I have no idea why Batgirl is being handed to another writer, and I’ll likely never know exactly why.

But I’m too big of a fan of both ladies to give up on either of them.

However, if I have one suggestion to make to DC, it would be, when you find a team that creates a great comic, PLEASE do whatever it takes to keep them on it! I mean, Superman has been on a merry-go-round for his entire time since the “New 52″ started.

And whatever Scott Snyder and Jeff Lemire want, for pity’s sake, just give it to them, okay?

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Creators Tease Upcoming Changes at the ‘Dark Edge’ of DC Comics at Comic-Con 2012

Jul. 13 Comic Books no comments

Amethyst will guest-star in Justice League Dark, Frankenstein’s joining it, Jonah Hex will go clown hunting, and Animal Man fans will get a retelling of his origin in his own book.

Those are just some of the news and tidbits DC Comics creators shared with eager fans during the “DC Comics: Tales from the Dark and the Edge” panel Thursday morning at Comic-Con International in San Diego. Bob Wayne, DC’s senior vice president of sales, moderated the panel for fans of the company’s mystical, western, and horror comics.

According to Animal Man series writer Jeff Lemire, August’s issue #12 starts a Rotworld storyline that will crossover with Swamp Thing, and Animal Man #0 covers Buddy Baker’s origin.

Lemire said that he and Swamp Thing series writer Scott Snyder are excited about the huge storyline they’ve got coming, which they aren’t finished writing yet.

“I think people will be surprised at the scope of the story. It’s a lot bigger than just Animal Man and Swamp Thing. It encompasses a lot of the DC Universe and a lot of characters you wouldn’t expect to see in the ‘dark’ books.”

And one of those unexpected heroes is Hawkman, who appeared mutated in a preview image on-screen fighting Animal Man. “Poor, poor Hawkman,” Lemire joked. “(Series artist) Steve Pugh did terrible things to him and other characters.”

Frankenstein will be a player in Rotworld story and will join Justice League Dark in the series’ upcoming annual. Speaking of Justice League Dark, Lemire said that a secret in Black Orchid’s origin will be revealed, and now that the Books of Magic are in the New 52, Timothy Hunter will appear as well.

“The secret of Black Orchid’s identity, this version of Black Orchid, is something I’m purposely keeping a mystery for now. Her origin is going to actually tie into Animal Man and Swamp Thing and things we’re doing there,” Lemire said.

In Deathstroke #0, writer-artist Rob Liefeld’s delving into Slade Wilson’s military origins and how losing the woman he loved scarred him. Grifter #0 will give the titular hero his own “Yoda, or his sensei character,” as Liefeld put it.

“These zeroes are just great because we get to really tell you guys stuff that has not been revealed in terms of the personalities and what motivates these characters, and Grifter has been a little bit of a lost soul and he really figures it out in issue #0,” Liefeld said.

Voodoo’s showing up for a story arc as well, and Liefeld said jokingly, (or perhaps not jokingly, that one-by-one the WildC.A.T.S. characters are coming together.

Jimmy Palmiotti said that he and All-Star Western co-writer Justin Gray would retell Jonah Hex’s origin in issue #0, and then, as a preview image of Hex fighting a clown popped up, Palmiotti said, to much laughter, that Hex will shoot crazy clowns in old Gotham.

“The circus comes to Gotham, and not only are the clowns evil, but a lot of people who are semi-clowns become more evil,” he said.

Artist Brent Anderson, who’s illustrating an upcoming Phantom Stranger series with DC Comics co-publisher Dan DiDio, said he joined the series after DiDio asked him what he liked to draw.

“I said, ‘Yeah. I like drawing hats,’” Anderson joked. DiDio spoke to the artist later to have him draw the series.

We reported a little while back that Amethyst would return in Sword of Sorcery #0, and series editor Rachel Gluckstern said the book will have a lead feature, starring Amethyst herself, and a back-up feature.

Team 7, written by Justin Jordan, takes place earlier in the New 52 continuity and will feature a black ops sort of team comprising Deathstroke, Black Canary, Grifter, Amanda Waller, Steve Trevor, and others.

No one revealed series details, but I, Vampire writer Joshua Fialkov praised Jordan’s work on the series. “He is a genius. He’s amazingly talented, and he’s one of those great young voices.”

Suicide Squad writer Adam Glass promised that issue #0 will begin an exploration into Amanda Waller’s character and how kick ass and vicious she is. Waller, who’s “one of the baddest mamas in the DC Universe right now,” will become less of the mystery.

Fialkov revealed that future I, Vampire issues will feature the vampires fighting zombies, and it’s been the most fun thing he’s written in a while. Readers will go back centuries and see the origin of Cain, and the status quo of the book will change after issue #0.

“I am constantly amazed that DC is letting me do the ridiculously crazy things we’re doing starting next year,” Fialkov said.

In the audience question-and-answer portion, Liefeld said that Hawkman #0 will have a huge event that will make Hawkman wanted across the universe; Lemire’s trying his best to write a de-aged John Constantine with the same essence he had before the relaunch; Fialkov said Jack Hawksmoor from Stormwatch will show up in I, Vampire #12; and Gluckstern said that Amethyst would appear in Justice League Dark.

Wayne ended the panel with a We Can Be Heroes promotional video urging people to help end hunger in Africa.

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DC Comics Releases San Diego Comic-Con 2012 Schedule

Jul. 11 Comic Books no comments

 

 

Comic-Con International in San Diego is HERE (basically, anyway), so if you’re a DC Entertainment fan who’s going, you’ll be pleased to know that DC’s released its panel schedule on its official website, but you can read it right here as well.

This is the company’s full slate from Thursday through Sunday, so mark your calendars and set your schedules! Look below to see where the action will be:

 

THURSDAY, JULY 12

 

10:30–11:30am DC: Talent Search Orientation Session

Moderator: Mark Chiarello

Join DCE’s VP – Art Direction and Design, Mark Chiarello, for an informative orientation session that will explain how DCE’s Talent Search works and discuss the different needs of the DC Comics, Vertigo and MAD Magazine brands. If you want to learn what DCE looks for in artists and how to improve your chances of becoming a working professional, then this is the panel for you! In order to have your work reviewed, attendance at this orientation session is mandatory. (Please note: Not all attendees are guaranteed a one-on-one review.)  Room 4

 

11:30am–12:30pm DC Comics – Tales from The Dark and The Edge

DCE Panelists: Brian Cunningham & Rachel Gluckstern

Talent: Rob Liefeld, Jimmy Palmiotti, Jeff Lemire, Adam Glass

Moderator: Bob Wayne

They’re some of the hardest-hitting – and strangest – comics anywhere – and this is your chance to find out what’s coming up in these DC Comics – The New 52 titles, with Editor Pat McCallum and creators like Adam Glass (Suicide Squad), Jeff Lemire (Justice League Dark), Rob Liefeld(Deathstroke, Grifter), Jimmy Palmiotti (All-Star Western). Room 6DE

 

1:00–2:00pm DC Collectibles

DCE Panelists: Jim Fletcher, Kevin Kiniry, Geoff Johns

Talent: Amanda Conner, Jean St. Jean, Phil Ramirez

Moderator: John Cunningham

Action figures, statues, busts, PVC figures…DC Collectibles has them all – and more! Join the DC Collectibles crew including DCE Chief Creative Officer Geoff Johns, Executive Director – Creative Services Kevin Kiniry, Director – Creative Services Jim Fletcher, with artist Amanda Conner, sculptors Jean St. Jean and Phil Ramirez, to hear how they come up with so many great products, and what’s coming up from comics’ top makers of awesome collectibles! Room 5AB

 

2:00­–3:00pm DC Comics – Batman: Beyond the Night of Owls

DCE Panelist: Mike Marts & Rachel Gluckstern

Talent: Tony Daniel, David Finch, Kyle Higgins, Gregg Hurwitz, John Layman, Gail Simone, Scott Snyder

Moderator: Bob Wayne

Gotham City’s Night of the Owls may be over – but the fallout will affect Batman’s hometown for years to come! Find out what’s on the horizon for the Dark Knight and his crime fighting cohort in this panel featuring Batman Group Editor Mike Marts, with Tony Daniel (Detective Comics), David Finch (Batman: The Dark Knight), Kyle Higgins (Nightwing), Gregg Hurwitz (Batman: The Dark Knight), John Layman (Detective Comics), Gail Simone (Batgirl), Scott Snyder (Batman), J.H. Williams (Batwoman) and more! Room 6DE

 

3:15–4:15pm DC Entertainment – All Access: DC NOW!

DCE Panelists: Bobbie Chase, Bob Harras

Talent: Amanda Conner, Geoff Johns, Rob Liefeld, Scott Lobdell, Francis Manapul, Jimmy Palmiotti, Scott Snyder

Moderator: John Cunningham

At DC Entertainment, there’s never been a better time to be a comics fan!  Come to this all access panel and find out what some of our top talent is looking forward to, with Amanda Conner (Before Watchmen: Silk Spectre), Geoff Johns (Justice League, Green Lantern, Aquaman), Rob Liefeld(Deathstroke, Grifter, Savage Hawkman), Scott Lobdell (Teen Titans, Superboy, Red Hood and the Outlaws), Francis Manapul (Flash), Jimmy Palmiotti (All-Star Western), Scott Snyder (Batman, Swamp Thing) and more! Room 6DE

 

5:45–6:45pm Vertigo: A View From The Cutting Edge of Comics

DCE Panelists: Karen Berger, Shelly Bond, Will Dennis

Talent: Dan Abnett, Rafael Albuquerque, Mike Allred, Mark Buckingham, Mike Carey, Jeff Lemire, Sean Murphy, Dustin Nguyen, Scott Snyder, Bill Willingham

Moderator: John Cunningham

It’s a big year for Vertigo, with exciting new projects like Fairest, Punk Rock Jesus and Saucer Country joining American Vampire, Fables, The Unwritten and Sweet Tooth. Get the lowdown on all your Vertigo favorites – and some that will be – and catch the latest on new graphic novels like Stieg Larsson’s The Girl With The Dragon Tatto Vol. 1 and others!, with Senior VP – Executive Editor Karen Berger, plus Dan Abnett (The New Deadwardians), Rafael Albuquerque (American Vampire), Mike Allred (iZombie), Mark Buckingham (Fables), Mike Carey (The Unwritten), Jeff Lemire (Sweet Tooth), Sean Murphy (Punk Rock Jesus), Dustin Nguyen (American Vampire: Lord of Nightmares), Scott Snyder (American Vampire, American Vampire: Lord of Nightmares),Bill Willingham (Fables, Fairest), and more! Room 6DE


Friday, July 13

 

10:00–11:00am DC Comics: From Concept to Page

DCE Panelists: Brian Cunningham, Matt Idelson

Talent: Brian Buccellato, Francis Manapul

Moderator: John Cunningham

What does it take to create a new comic book? Find out at this amazing panel, where for the first time DC has assembled the entire creative team of a comic book, including the editor, writer, penciller, inker and more! Learn how a new project is developed before the script is even written, and the many steps that happen after the artwork is complete, with DCE’s Group Editor Mike Marts, Editor Brian Cunningham and the creative team behind Flash – Brian Buccellato andFrancis Manapul!

Room 6DE

 

10:00–11:00am DC: Talent Search Orientation Session

Moderator: Mark Chiarello

Join DCE’s VP – Art Direction and Design, Mark Chiarello, for an informative orientation session that will explain how DCE’s Talent Search works and discuss the different needs of the DC Comics, Vertigo and MAD Magazine brands. If you want to learn what DCE looks for in artists and how to improve your chances of becoming a working professional, then this is the panel for you! In order to have your work reviewed, attendance at this orientation session is mandatory. (Please note: Not all attendees are guaranteed a one-on-one review.) Room 4

 

11:15am–12:15pm DC Comics: Superman

DCE Panelist: Matt Idelson

Talent: Shane Davis, Mike Johnson, Scott Lobdell

Moderator: John Cunningham

Since the launch of the New 52, Superman has been flying higher than ever! Join Group Editor Matt Idelson and SUPER talent Shane Davis (Superman: Earth One), Mike Johnson (Supergirl), andScott Lodbell (Superman) to take fans new and old up, up and away with a sneak peak at what’s in store for Superman.  Room 6DE

 

1:45–2:45pm DC Comics: Justice League and Green Lantern

DCE Panelists: Brian Cunningham, Matt Idelson, Pat McCallum

Talent: Tony Bedard, Brian Buccellato, Geoff Johns, Jim Lee, Jeff Lemire, Francis Manapul, James Robinson, Nicola Scott

Moderator: John Cunningham

Comics’ top talent – writer Geoff Johns and artist Jim Lee – continue their historic team up on DC Comics best selling Justice League while Geoff continues his epic run on Green Lantern! Join Johns, Lee, Tony Bedard (Green Lantern: New Guardians),  Brian Buccellato (Flash), Jeff Lemire(Animal Man, Justice League Dark), Francis Manapul (Flash), James Robinson (Earth 2), Nicola Scott (Earth 2) to explore some of DC Comics spectacular titles! Room 6DE

 

3:00–4:00pm DRAWING DC

DCE Panelist: Mark Chiarello

Talent: Rafael Albuquerque, Tony Daniel, Dustin Nguyen

Moderator: Mark Chiarello

There are as many ways to draw comics as there are comics artists – and at this panel, you’ll see some of DC’s top talent draw while they discuss their work! Join Mark Chiarello, DC’s VP — Art Direction and Design as he chats with artists like Rafael Albuquerque (American Vampire), Tony Daniel (Detective Comics), Dustin Nguyen (American Vampire: Lord of Nightmares, Batman Beyond) and more. Room 11AB

 

4:15–5:15pm DC Comics – The New 52

DCE Panelists: Bobbie Chase, Bob Harras

Talent: David Finch, Adam Glass, Geoff Johns, Dan Jurgens, Rob Liefeld, Scott Lobdell, Jimmy Palmiotti, Gail Simone, Scott Snyder

Moderator: Bob Wayne

DC Comics – The New 52 and The New 52 Wave 2 are the industry’s most talked about industry-shattering events! Although the landscape has changed, we’re not done making news! Come by and be a part of history as, discuss what’s coming next in this exciting time for DC Entertainment with David Finch (Batman: The Dark Knight), Adam Glass (Suicide Squad), Geoff Johns (Justice League, Green Lantern, Aquaman), Dan Jurgens (Superman, Justice League International), Rob Liefeld (Deathstroke, Grifter, Savage Hawkman), Scott Lobdell (Teen Titans, Superboy, Red Hood and the Outlaws), Jimmy Palmiotti (All-Star Western), Gail Simone (Batgirl), Scott Snyder(Batman, Swamp Thing) and more.  Room 6DE

 

5:30–6:30pm Vertigo: Get Jiro!

DCE Panelist: Karen Berger

Talent: Anthony Bourdain, Joel Rose, Langdon Foss, Jose Villarubbia

Moderator: John Cunningham

In a not-too-distant food-obsessed future, they all want to Get Jiro! Join renowned chef and New York Times Best-selling writer Anthony Bourdain (Kitchen Confidential, Medium Raw), co-writerJoel Rose (LA PACIFICA, Kill Kill Faster Faster) artists Langdon Foss (Get Jiro!) and Jose Villarrubia (Get Jiro!) and Vertigo Senior VP – Executive Editor Karen Berger, as they talk about this exciting and savory Vertigo original graphic novel! Room 6DE


Saturday, July 14

 

10:00–11:00am DC: Talent Search Orientation Session 3

Moderator: Mark Chiarello

Join DCE’s VP – Art Direction and Design, Mark Chiarello, for an informative orientation session that will explain how DCE’s Talent Search works and discuss the different needs of the DC Comics, Vertigo and MAD Magazine brands. If you want to learn what DCE looks for in artists and how to improve your chances of becoming a working professional, then this is the panel for you! In order to have your work reviewed, attendance at this orientation session is mandatory. (Please note: Not all attendees are guaranteed a one-on-one review.)  Room 4

 

10:00–11:00am DC Comics – The New Wave

DCE Panelists: Bobbie Chase, Rachel Gluckstern, Mike Marts

Talent: Brent Anderson, Tony Bedard, Dan DiDio, Scott Snyder, James Tynion IV

Moderator: Bob Wayne

With DC Comics – The New 52, Before Watchmen, and The New 52, Wave 2, DC Entertainment is running on all cylinders! But you haven’t seen anything yet! Come by for a panel about the next exciting event from DC Comics with DC Entertainment Co-Publisher Dan DiDio (Phantom Stranger), Brent Anderson (Phantom Stranger), Tony Bedard (Sword of Sorcery), Snyder (Talon), and James Tynion IV (Talon)! Room 6DE

 

11:15am–12:30pm DC Comics – All Access: OGNs

DCE Panelists: Karen Berger, Bob Harras

Talent: Anthony Bourdain, Shane Davis, Langdon Foss, Geoff Johns, J. Michael Straczynski

Moderator: John Cunningham

It’s been a big year for DC Comics award-winning, original graphic novels, and it’s only going to get bigger! Come by for unfiltered access to behind-the-scenes of your favorite and most talked about original graphic novels Publisher! Joining the all access party will be some of the industry’s top talents including Anthony Bourdain (Get Jiro!), Shane Davis (Superman: Earth One), Langdon Foss (Get Jiro!), Geoff Johns (Batman: Earth One), and J. Michael Straczynski (Superman: Earth One) so don’t miss out! Room 6DE

 

12:45–1:45pm DC Comics: Before Watchmen

DCE Panelists: Mark Chiarello, Will Dennis, Dan DiDio

Talent: Amanda Conner, Darwyn Cooke, Len Wein, J. Michael Straczynski

Moderator: John Cunningham

It’s not the end of the world. It’s the beginning! Before Watchmen is here so you don’t miss this panel about the most talked about comic book series of 2012! Join DC Entertainment Co-PublisherDan DiDio, VP – Art Direction and Design Mark Chiarello, Senior Editor Will Dennis, Amanda Conner (Before Watchmen: Silk Spectre), Darwyn Cooke (Before Watchmen: Minute Men), J. Michael Straczynski (Before Watchmen: Nite Owl), Len Wein (Before Watchmen: Ozymandias, Curse of the Crimson Corsair) and others as they talk about this game-changing event! Hurm!Room 6DE

 

2:00–3:00pm Mad about MAD

DCE Panelists: John Ficarra, Ryan Flanders, Sam Viviano

Talent: Sergio Aragones, Peter Kuper, Tom Richmond

Moderator: Bob Wayne

Often imitated but never duplicated, MAD is the country’s best-selling humor magazine! Join MAD Magazine editor John Ficarra, art director Sam Viviano and Sergio Aragones, “Spy vs. Spy” artist Peter Kuper, and Tom Richmond for a wise-cracking Q&A that’s bound to be, well, MAD.Room 9

 

7:00–8:00pm Vertigo: Fables

DCE Panelist: Shelly Bond

Talent: Mark Buckingham, Lauren Beukes, Phil Jimenez, Andy Lanning, Steve Leialoha, Bill Willingham

Moderator: John Cunningham

The annual Fables Comic-Con panel is back and better than ever! With the launch of Vertigo’s critically acclaimed Fairest, there’s no better time to hear what Bill Willingham, creator of the multi-Eisner Award winning series Fables and Fairest, has to say. Join Bill, artists Mark Buckingham, Lauren Beukes, Phil Jimenez, Andy Lanning, Steve Leialoha, Group EditorShelly Bond and others for a panel that is truly legendary. Room 6DE

 

Sunday July 15


10:00–11:00am DC Comics: Young Justice

DCE Panelists: Bobbie Chase

Talent: Tony Bedard, Scott Lobdell

Moderator: John Cunningham

They may be young – but they’re still heroes! Find out what’s happening for Teen Titans, Blue Beetle and more as more DC Comics – The New 52 unfolds in this panel features Tony Bedard(Blue Beetle) and Scott Lobdell (Teen Titans, Red Hood and the Outlaws). Room 6DE

 

11:15am–12:15pm Meet the Co-Publishers

DCE Panelists: Dan DiDio, Jim Lee

Moderator: Bob Wayne

As Co-Publishers of DC Entertainment, Jim Lee and Dan DiDio are the driving forces behind DC Comics – The New 52, DC’s digital initiative, Before Watchmen, and much more. This up-close-and-personal panel gives you a chance to step up and ask questions about your favorite comic book Publisher publishers! Say that five times fast! Room 6DE

 

2:00–3:00pm Drawing DC – DC Kids Edition

DCE Panelists: Larry Ganem

Talent: Art Baltazar, Franco, Dustin Nguyen

Moderators: Larry Ganem

What does it take to remake a universe? Immensely talented artists! Join Talent Relations DirectorLarry Ganem with the Eisner Award winning team of Art Baltazar and Franco (Tiny Titans) and the ever dynamic Dustin Nguyen (Batman Beyond) as they showcase their artistic talents! Room 11AB

 

* Please note that panelists are subject to change; please come by the DCE booth for any updates.

 

 

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The Heroes of HeroesCon

Jun. 27 A CONvoluted Story, Comic Books, Editorials, Reviews 1 comment

Pioneered in 1982 by Shelton Drum, owner of Heroes Aren’t Hard to Find comics in Charlotte, North Carolina, HeroesCon has become one of the premier Comic-oriented fandom cons in the nation.  Correction: in the world.  The three-day convention draws in comic writers, artists, publishers and vendors by the 100s, yet the feel is decidedly personal, like a really big gathering of friends in a really big house….with a car show being held in the garage next door, but that’s another story. This is the story of how The Nerd himself (AKA Bryan), co-founder JP, and lil’ ol’ me, met in person for the first time and explored everything this Con has to offer – which is quite a lot.  This is an overview/semi-review.  Stay tuned for more information/news gathered from specific panels and folks we met.

Just me and my Baby Hulk (from artist Chris Uminga)

The convention floor is divided into sections.  Some, such as “Indie Island” and “Artist Alley,” are primarily focused on offering fans a way to interact with the artists and writers they love, and the artists and writers they may very well come to love.  These areas also offer writers, artists and publishers a chance to reach new audience members, network with each other, and generally have a smashing good time.   Much like the Walk of Fame at DragonCon, the people in the room seem truly interested in talking to fans, and the prices are much, much better.  Autographs are almost always free, and one can purchase issues of comics or original art for fair, reasonable prices.   Some creators, the comic-rock-star Scott Snyder included, are willing to sign as many items as fans can carry (an especially generous task on the part of Mr. Snyder, given that he was clearly sick as a dog during much of the convention) and others have a limit of one or two items.  There may be a way to know who is who in advance, but some good general advice would be to be considerate of others who are waiting in line and the artists themselves and only bring a few items with you to have signed.   Some artists have specific times they will be signing  (this is particularly true for those who are also speaking on panels during the convention) and others are catch as catch can, but there is a good chance they will be at their tables (which are assigned on a fairly easy to read map given out at registration) most of the day.  This is what they are there for – to meet fans, to geek out with them, to build on their base and build up their work.

HeroesCon Floor

My experience on the floor was exceptional.  I purchased the first three issues of Fanboys Vs. Zombies for 5$ each, signed by the writer, artist and colorist for each and I had a choice of covers to choose from.   While I had yet to read the title, the price was so reasonable, I was willing to buy them based on the positively glowing reviews of every single member of Word of the Nerd to do a review.  As a bonus, artist Jerry Gaylord offered to draw a sketch of “any character” I wanted.  After a long discussion of how to represent Jon Snow (I know, I know, he’s not a comic character) I decided to keep it simple and go with Cap.  I was not disappointed – see the pic below. I also purchased an interesting looking book called Pinocchio: Vampire Slayer, also signed, also for a reasonable cost.  Again, just looked interesting.  Why not try it?  My favorite purchases by far were two prints from artist Chris Uminga, one of which (the baby Hulk) is included in the picture below.  They were the most expensive purchases, at 20$ each, but I fell in love with them, so I have no regrets.

Some of our loot from the Con!

 

I should also mention that by far the biggest name at the convention was Stan Lee.  In order to be part of his panel or have him sign items, however, you had to buy separate tickets.  I did not elect to do this, but WOTN staff writer and first time Con-goer Mike Turner did and he reported that Mr. Lee did not disappoint – he apparently put on a great discussion at his panel and was generous and gracious with his time at the signings.  It would be hard to imagine a better story than Stan Lee’s.  It’s nice to see him enjoying the fruits of his labor at the age of 89.

Toward the front of the massive space, vendors set up, often selling truly impressive and daunting collections of vintage comics.  If you have been looking for “that one” issue of “that one” series to complete your collection, HereosCon may offer a solution.  In addition to comics, attendees will find gadgets, movie posters, strange toys, and memorabilia by the tons.  Some of it is offered at discounted prices, some of it is decidedly over-priced, so give negotiating a try when purchasing.  There was a beautiful, framed Captain America poster for 100$ that I felt too shy to negotiate for and now I’ll never know if it could have been mine.  Someone else snagged it by mid-day, Saturday.  *sigh*

In some cases, folks must be invited to the con in order to get a table, in others, tables can be purchased with enough advanced notice – for all the details on which is which (something I know my colleagues at Word of the Nerd ,where I also serve as Editor in Chief, had some frustrations with) click here.

From my experience, the panels are relatively laid-back discussions, usually including a moderator, that are equally divided between questions from said moderator and questions from those in the crowd.  I imagine the exact logistics vary slightly from panel to panel.

The Women of Womanthology

I attended the Vertigo Visions panel, featuring Scott Synder, Bill Willingham (Fables) and moderator Jimmy Aquino from Comic News Insider (who also has a recap of the con here), the DC’s New 52 panel featuring Cully Hamner (Blue Beetle), Ivan Reis (Aquaman), Scott Snyder, Joe Prado (Green Lantern) and Jeff Lemire, with moderator Doug Merkle, and the Womanthology panel featuring Rachel Pandich (Aspire), Janet Lee (The Return of the Dapper Men), Jennifer Mercer, Vanessa Stone, Anya Martin, Brenda Kirk and Rachel Deering, all of whom had work included in the Womanthology collection.

DC Panel

 

By far my favorite panel was the New 52 discussion.  Every participant was funny, smart, and happy to be there. The crowd asked thoughtful questions directed at each of the writers and artists in a fairly even way, so the awkward “one guy gets all the questions” thing was avoided.  Best of all (or worst, for my pocket-book) they each recommended titles they love and I walked away with a much longer pull-list than I went in with.

Several of the women on the Womanthology panel graciously agreed to dedicate some time to us and participated in a Word of the Nerd podcast after already answering questions for an hour, so a special thanks goes out to Rachel Pandich, Janet Lee, Brenda Kirk (Geektress on Twitter), and Vanessa Satone for that.  They were inspiring, charming, and also full of amazing ideas about all the things I should add to my pull-list.  Titan Comics in Atlanta also thanks you, ladies.

Jason as #41; me drinking the fuel of the Con, a mocha-frappe from Starbucks.

 

While I was to some extent at the convention to network with others in the geek-world, my primary purpose in all of this – both GGGG and WOTN included – is to have fun.  Bex and I write what we love.  We post what makes us happy. We want to feel connected to folks who are inspiring, funny, talented and who, above all else, get what the hell we’re talking about.  HeroesCon has this same, non-cynical feel.  Sure, there are plenty of business cards passed out, but it’s almost always with a, “Woah, you’re super cool.  Let’s stay in touch,” vibe attached.  While I am far from an expert on comics, I know enough to have been deeply excited by much of what I saw, participated in, and purchased at HeroesCon.  It is a con that offers something for novice and expert alike.

 

Tickets are only 30$ for all three days, folks.  I call that a bargain.  If you live in the area, or are up for a trip south in June, I highly recommend putting it on your schedule for next year.  Check out the website for all the details.

 

I totally forgot to mention the CosPlay! Some of it was truly impressive.

This article was originally published on Good Girl Gone Geek, June 26th, 2012

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Frankenstein to Enlist in Men of War #8

Jan. 15 Comic Books, Press Release no comments

It’s looks like DC Comic’s New 52 reboot of Men of War is about to get a bit more interesting. Frankenstein, from another new series- Frankenstein Agent of S.H.A.D.E.- will be joining the battles of World War II in Men of War #8.

“At the helm of the final issue of MEN OF WAR are white hot writers Jeff Lemire (Animal Man, Frankenstein Agent of S.H.A.D.E., Sweet Tooth) and Matt Kindt (Revolver) with art by Tom Derenick.”

This issue of Men of War is shaping up to be a big one. Writer Jeff Lemire speaks excitedly about collaborating with Matt Kindt:

 “It was an incredibly fun experience. We just kept trying to top each other in terms of the crazy Ideas we could squeeze into the book, and I think fans are going to have as much fun reading it as we had writing it!”

This will be the climactic finish for Men of War — the series will be ending with this #8 issue. But the addition of Frank into the story certainly means the book is going out with a bang!

 “In this action packed issue, Frankenstein walks through a rain of bombs over 1941 London before being dragged to the depths of the Pacific Ocean and onto the shores of Japan. Will he make it there in one piece so he can team up with GI Robot to defeat the Axis weapon that threatens to turn the tide of the war? Frank’s success will hinge on the help of a four-armed super-spy assassin working in the shadows.”

DC forums are currently abuzz with fans of both series coming together and celebrating this upcoming, 40-page issue. With such an over-the-top premise and an explosive ending expected by fans, we can’t wait to get our hands on it either!

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