agentkooper's Recent Comments
Comicscape: Halfway There: A Midsummer Report - Sep 03, 2008 - 12:59pm
Sweet! You just might get that Gunslinger Vs. Pigs in Space: A Retrospective article after all.
Sweet! You just might get that Gunslinger Vs. Pigs in Space: A Retrospective article after all.
Comicscape: Robert Kirkman Calls You Out - Aug 20, 2008 - 09:36am
Wiseguy- I'm with you on Wally. That totally has me off the book. Course, I'd like to see the return of Bart. Just as he was coming into his own, he was dead.
Wiseguy- I'm with you on Wally. That totally has me off the book. Course, I'd like to see the return of Bart. Just as he was coming into his own, he was dead.
Comicscape: The Dreaded Comic-Con Recap - Jul 30, 2008 - 09:54am
I'm glad Marvel is doing the animated thing. Each movie is of consistently higher quality than the previous. DC also did a phenom job with New Frontier. Here's hoping for more of the same. The other news is mostly a non-starter for me.
I'm glad Marvel is doing the animated thing. Each movie is of consistently higher quality than the previous. DC also did a phenom job with New Frontier. Here's hoping for more of the same. The other news is mostly a non-starter for me.
Mumbling Kitsune: Goodbye, Inuyasha (It's About Time) - Jun 16, 2008 - 09:43am
558? I thought there was 167 episodes all together?
558? I thought there was 167 episodes all together?
Comicscape: I Am Iron Man - May 07, 2008 - 02:33pm
Possible spoiler - I haven't seen the movie yet so who knows. Does the inclusion of Samuel L mean Ultimates fans will get what they've been begging for?
Possible spoiler - I haven't seen the movie yet so who knows. Does the inclusion of Samuel L mean Ultimates fans will get what they've been begging for?
Comicscape: Ben Johnson Counts Out Countdown - Apr 30, 2008 - 05:35pm
Sorry about the formatting, I'm not sure what happened there. Usually the titles are double spaced.
Sorry about the formatting, I'm not sure what happened there. Usually the titles are double spaced.
Merchandising: The Search for More Money! - Apr 16, 2008 - 11:05am
Not impressed with the new format. I'm hoping this is a "soft-opening". I've been thinking for sometime that we may reach the point soon where publishers use monthly comics as loss leaders, making all profit off of licensing, movie revenue and merchandising.
Not impressed with the new format. I'm hoping this is a "soft-opening". I've been thinking for sometime that we may reach the point soon where publishers use monthly comics as loss leaders, making all profit off of licensing, movie revenue and merchandising.
Secret Invasion: Implications and Musings - Apr 10, 2008 - 02:08pm
Ben here- I suppose I'm different than your average fan, but (outside of Spider-Man and the Hulk) I don't have any special feelings for the characters. I'm here for the stories. Civil War was a good idea that was weak in delivery, 52 was a good story that was to big for 52 weeks, Countdown is a letdown, WWH was a cop out. We'll see about Secret Invasion. The set-up is good, a lot is at stake and maybe, like Civil War, it will lead to some very interesting stories afterward. It also might suck itself to death. CalamityJohnson - You're right, Iron Fist does rock and it's in my top ten: 1 - Nova and Annihilation 2- Scalped 3- Fables 4- Ultimate FF 5- Thor 6- Simon Dark 7- Invincible (and pretty much everything else by Kirkman) 8- JSA 9- That Superhero quest thing by Dark Horse that completely escapes me right now 10 - Captain America, Iron Fist, DD, 11-Batman 12- Twelve
Ben here- I suppose I'm different than your average fan, but (outside of Spider-Man and the Hulk) I don't have any special feelings for the characters. I'm here for the stories. Civil War was a good idea that was weak in delivery, 52 was a good story that was to big for 52 weeks, Countdown is a letdown, WWH was a cop out. We'll see about Secret Invasion. The set-up is good, a lot is at stake and maybe, like Civil War, it will lead to some very interesting stories afterward. It also might suck itself to death. CalamityJohnson - You're right, Iron Fist does rock and it's in my top ten: 1 - Nova and Annihilation 2- Scalped 3- Fables 4- Ultimate FF 5- Thor 6- Simon Dark 7- Invincible (and pretty much everything else by Kirkman) 8- JSA 9- That Superhero quest thing by Dark Horse that completely escapes me right now 10 - Captain America, Iron Fist, DD, 11-Batman 12- Twelve
Three More Join Whedon's DOLLHOUSE - Mar 27, 2008 - 09:18am
With Fox's track record being what it is I would be amazed if the show lasts beyond the initial order of seven episodes.
With Fox's track record being what it is I would be amazed if the show lasts beyond the initial order of seven episodes.
THEM - Mar 24, 2008 - 10:52am
I don't want to be rude, but this must be one of the most poorly written reviews I have ever read. Frags, poor grammar, confusing language, and mispellings galore made this very difficult for me to understand. Please spend a bit more time editing in the future, it will bring your work to a much higher caliber.
I don't want to be rude, but this must be one of the most poorly written reviews I have ever read. Frags, poor grammar, confusing language, and mispellings galore made this very difficult for me to understand. Please spend a bit more time editing in the future, it will bring your work to a much higher caliber.
Mainstream Readers and Future Formats - Mar 19, 2008 - 09:26am
Ben here, Lest anyone should misunderstand, I have NOT purchased a single issue of Amazing Spider-Man since the wipe, but I've flipped through it on several occasions. That's where my opinion is based. Also, I have hated nearly all Evil Dead stuff, but Freddy vs. Jason vs. Ash is great fun. It's a top of the stack read.
Ben here, Lest anyone should misunderstand, I have NOT purchased a single issue of Amazing Spider-Man since the wipe, but I've flipped through it on several occasions. That's where my opinion is based. Also, I have hated nearly all Evil Dead stuff, but Freddy vs. Jason vs. Ash is great fun. It's a top of the stack read.
KICK ASS #1 - Mar 03, 2008 - 02:20am
Romita makes me think kinetic. Check out World War Hulk (don't read the story) and look at his work. I felt the earth shake as I gazed at each panel as if the Hulk was next door. Then again, I hate Romita on Spider-Man.
Romita makes me think kinetic. Check out World War Hulk (don't read the story) and look at his work. I felt the earth shake as I gazed at each panel as if the Hulk was next door. Then again, I hate Romita on Spider-Man.
SEMI PRO Scores Small Victory - Mar 03, 2008 - 02:14am
Skip the theater and watch Justice League: New Frontier on DVD. Best comic adaptation... well, maybe ever.
Skip the theater and watch Justice League: New Frontier on DVD. Best comic adaptation... well, maybe ever.
Slicing Cold Cuts with Lance Stahlberg - Feb 27, 2008 - 09:15am
Kurt- I know you usually do theater releases, but you should do a review for JLA New Frontier.
Kurt- I know you usually do theater releases, but you should do a review for JLA New Frontier.
Coen Bros. Adapting YIDDISH Police Tale - Feb 12, 2008 - 11:33am
Just because I'm picky, Sitka is not "frozen". It's about 50 miles from where I live and they're soaking wet, but far from frozen.
Just because I'm picky, Sitka is not "frozen". It's about 50 miles from where I live and they're soaking wet, but far from frozen.
Running up the Hill with Brandon Thomas - Jan 23, 2008 - 09:57am
I know what you mean. When they announced it would be going in a different creative direction I was a bit unnerved, but whoever thought it was a good idea to take one of the coolest comics and turn it into toilet paper is a total idiot. Kurt, good interview. I like how candid he was.
I know what you mean. When they announced it would be going in a different creative direction I was a bit unnerved, but whoever thought it was a good idea to take one of the coolest comics and turn it into toilet paper is a total idiot. Kurt, good interview. I like how candid he was.
Cloverfield Manga: Last Minute Hype - Jan 17, 2008 - 11:20am
Or the embodiement of teenage angst. That would suck, too.
Or the embodiement of teenage angst. That would suck, too.
Cloverfield Manga: Last Minute Hype - Jan 17, 2008 - 10:21am
I just hope it's not a giant mutated human pissed off for getting beat up by a bunch of punks all his life.
I just hope it's not a giant mutated human pissed off for getting beat up by a bunch of punks all his life.
Christopher Nolan Talks DARK KNIGHT - Jan 16, 2008 - 11:58am
I really like this idea. Hopefully he won't end up dead at the end. One of the biggest failure's of comic movies is that the villian gets killed so often. Ra's in the first one is fine because he can come back via lazarus pits, but don't kill the Joker. Imagine as the franchise progresses a Joker that could be an ongoing wild card, a permanent thorn in Batman's side. Sweet!
I really like this idea. Hopefully he won't end up dead at the end. One of the biggest failure's of comic movies is that the villian gets killed so often. Ra's in the first one is fine because he can come back via lazarus pits, but don't kill the Joker. Imagine as the franchise progresses a Joker that could be an ongoing wild card, a permanent thorn in Batman's side. Sweet!
New DOOMSDAY Photos and Trailer Online - Jan 16, 2008 - 11:04am
I saw the preview of the movie and I got to say... It's a mix between Water World, Omega Man, Gigli, Carpool (Starring Jim Belushi), Glitter, Land of the Dean, and U-571. I can't wait for this one, it looks awesome.
I saw the preview of the movie and I got to say... It's a mix between Water World, Omega Man, Gigli, Carpool (Starring Jim Belushi), Glitter, Land of the Dean, and U-571. I can't wait for this one, it looks awesome.
One Comicscape, Many Subjects - Jan 16, 2008 - 10:58am
Cyclops as a Skrull would fit perfectly as long as Emma was as well.
Cyclops as a Skrull would fit perfectly as long as Emma was as well.
Top 6 Reasons 2008 Could be the Year of PS3 - Jan 15, 2008 - 01:59pm
As Merin suggests it would take a MONSTER year by the PS3 to make any gains on the 360. Every month with the exception of the PS3 release window the 360 has tidily outsold its rival, not even including the one year of sales head start the 360 had. That not only means that the 360 has more units out right now, but also that every single month the PS3 has fallen farther behind the 360, meaning that if they were to catch up sales for the 360 would have to remain flat and the PS3 would have to nearly double those sales for 2 YEARS. That would take a lot of doing. For clarification, the above only relates to the U.S. I love my 360 - Mass Effect, Gears, Bioshock, and Oblivion have gotten a lot of spin time, not to mention taking advantage of the chance to play a bunch of games I missed out on by never owning the original Xbox. That being said, I am sick of my system locking up and telling me it can't read immaculate disks. Truthfully, I get way more play time in on my PS2 as I continue to buy older titles super cheap on Ebay.
As Merin suggests it would take a MONSTER year by the PS3 to make any gains on the 360. Every month with the exception of the PS3 release window the 360 has tidily outsold its rival, not even including the one year of sales head start the 360 had. That not only means that the 360 has more units out right now, but also that every single month the PS3 has fallen farther behind the 360, meaning that if they were to catch up sales for the 360 would have to remain flat and the PS3 would have to nearly double those sales for 2 YEARS. That would take a lot of doing. For clarification, the above only relates to the U.S. I love my 360 - Mass Effect, Gears, Bioshock, and Oblivion have gotten a lot of spin time, not to mention taking advantage of the chance to play a bunch of games I missed out on by never owning the original Xbox. That being said, I am sick of my system locking up and telling me it can't read immaculate disks. Truthfully, I get way more play time in on my PS2 as I continue to buy older titles super cheap on Ebay.
The Next Big Bust - Jan 11, 2008 - 07:44pm
If Brubaker pulls that Skrull crap with Cap I'm taking my man love somewhere else.
If Brubaker pulls that Skrull crap with Cap I'm taking my man love somewhere else.
The Next Big Bust - Jan 10, 2008 - 03:21pm
Not to totally hijack things but I had a major epiphany about why comic readership is lowish but growing again and it all has to do with the amount of sex people are having. I blogged my thoughts here: http://www.mania.com/agentkooper/blog/394.html
Not to totally hijack things but I had a major epiphany about why comic readership is lowish but growing again and it all has to do with the amount of sex people are having. I blogged my thoughts here: http://www.mania.com/agentkooper/blog/394.html
The Next Big Bust - Jan 09, 2008 - 11:49am
Damn! Double post. Kurt, you've been doing some of your best writing the last few weeks. Keep it up.
Damn! Double post. Kurt, you've been doing some of your best writing the last few weeks. Keep it up.
The Next Big Bust - Jan 09, 2008 - 11:42am
Ben here, Argus - It isn't the regular stories running through Supes that are driving me over the edge, it's all the crap like third kryptonian and Countdown tie-ins that have me completely lost. When it takes the writer 18 months to tell a 12 month arc something is wrong, and because Supes is the flagship character there is editorial pressure to make sure he is included in every big DC event. I hate it. Merin - Thanks for the input from the other side of the counter. It helps put perspective on things. I was one of the people that left comics in the 90's and I've been going back and reading the big events I missed. Stories like No Man's Land and Age of Apocalypse and I've found one thing is true through almost all of them - the story itself is usually pretty sound and interesting, but all the satellite fillers add nothing to the story and cause readers (me at least) to lose interest or become exhausted by reading bits that don't matter and are poorly written. Just like today. One of the biggest signs of collapse that I've seen is that the big two don't make most of their revenue on the monthly books anymore. In fact, if Marvel and DC lost ten percent on their books they would still make huge profits on movies and the like. This is fine for now, but what happens if (when) the general populace loses interest in men in tights again? As for fearing the crash, I actually look forward to it. The last one got the industry under control again and got the focus back on solid writing. Here's to another crash!
Ben here, Argus - It isn't the regular stories running through Supes that are driving me over the edge, it's all the crap like third kryptonian and Countdown tie-ins that have me completely lost. When it takes the writer 18 months to tell a 12 month arc something is wrong, and because Supes is the flagship character there is editorial pressure to make sure he is included in every big DC event. I hate it. Merin - Thanks for the input from the other side of the counter. It helps put perspective on things. I was one of the people that left comics in the 90's and I've been going back and reading the big events I missed. Stories like No Man's Land and Age of Apocalypse and I've found one thing is true through almost all of them - the story itself is usually pretty sound and interesting, but all the satellite fillers add nothing to the story and cause readers (me at least) to lose interest or become exhausted by reading bits that don't matter and are poorly written. Just like today. One of the biggest signs of collapse that I've seen is that the big two don't make most of their revenue on the monthly books anymore. In fact, if Marvel and DC lost ten percent on their books they would still make huge profits on movies and the like. This is fine for now, but what happens if (when) the general populace loses interest in men in tights again? As for fearing the crash, I actually look forward to it. The last one got the industry under control again and got the focus back on solid writing. Here's to another crash!
2007: The Year in Review, Part Two - Jan 04, 2008 - 09:52am
I don't usually let stories rile me up personally, no matter how much I agree/disagree with the direction the writer takes, but OMD really has me pissed off. I feel like JQ and friends have landed a kick squarely to my nuts and now they're laughing about it. Just stupid. Merin - you should check out Ultimate FF. Carey has turned this into one of my favorite reads. Top of the stack every month. Totally unrelated - did anyone notice the Batman/Superman logo on a billboard in the background of I Am Legend? It was for a movie and had a June 2010 release date listed.
I don't usually let stories rile me up personally, no matter how much I agree/disagree with the direction the writer takes, but OMD really has me pissed off. I feel like JQ and friends have landed a kick squarely to my nuts and now they're laughing about it. Just stupid. Merin - you should check out Ultimate FF. Carey has turned this into one of my favorite reads. Top of the stack every month. Totally unrelated - did anyone notice the Batman/Superman logo on a billboard in the background of I Am Legend? It was for a movie and had a June 2010 release date listed.
Studios Report Record $9.62 Billion Year - Jan 03, 2008 - 11:57am
Merin - No movie of any size has to use union workers, but to get released by a big production house everyone has to be paid union scale. While the strike may give smaller films more room to shine the only people who will be enjoying them are the film fest attendees. Edit: No one has to be union in big movies, but the unions have such a strong hold that pretty much everyone is. This is also due to the union's stranglehold on the industry. A friend of mine optioned a screenplay and was contacted by a union rep informing him of the need to join the union THE SAME DAY he signed his contract.
Merin - No movie of any size has to use union workers, but to get released by a big production house everyone has to be paid union scale. While the strike may give smaller films more room to shine the only people who will be enjoying them are the film fest attendees. Edit: No one has to be union in big movies, but the unions have such a strong hold that pretty much everyone is. This is also due to the union's stranglehold on the industry. A friend of mine optioned a screenplay and was contacted by a union rep informing him of the need to join the union THE SAME DAY he signed his contract.
Universal Pushes WANTED To Summer 2008 - Dec 06, 2007 - 12:34pm
What in the hell is this movie about? I'll never understand why a production company pays for a little known lisence and then changes everything about it. If they think their idea is so great then why just make the movie the want to and call it something else? I want to see Wanted, not Dead Like Me with guns.
What in the hell is this movie about? I'll never understand why a production company pays for a little known lisence and then changes everything about it. If they think their idea is so great then why just make the movie the want to and call it something else? I want to see Wanted, not Dead Like Me with guns.
Going Digital with Marvel - Nov 28, 2007 - 11:45am
I live on an island in Alaska, which puts me at the end of shipping lanes and delivery routes and I am sick of recieving damaged comics. I DO read my comics and that is why I buy them, but because of the way the industry is I also pay a premium for a collectible that is not in collectible condition by the time I recieve it. It also takes two extra days for comics to show up here. I would love to read fairly priced digital comics. I already purchase all of my SLG comics in digital format at eyemelt.com and it works great for me.
I live on an island in Alaska, which puts me at the end of shipping lanes and delivery routes and I am sick of recieving damaged comics. I DO read my comics and that is why I buy them, but because of the way the industry is I also pay a premium for a collectible that is not in collectible condition by the time I recieve it. It also takes two extra days for comics to show up here. I would love to read fairly priced digital comics. I already purchase all of my SLG comics in digital format at eyemelt.com and it works great for me.
Opening the Black Dossier: The Alan Moore Interview, Part Two - Nov 15, 2007 - 12:55am
And I sure as hell wouldn't say I'm Stephanie Brown, or Robin for that matter. That is, unless I get to wear those green underwear shorts and change my name to Dick. Then I'm in like Flint.
And I sure as hell wouldn't say I'm Stephanie Brown, or Robin for that matter. That is, unless I get to wear those green underwear shorts and change my name to Dick. Then I'm in like Flint.
Opening the Black Dossier: The Alan Moore Interview, Part Two - Nov 14, 2007 - 03:50pm
You're worried about him calling you Al? He called me Al's Robin. Imagine the hellspawn that thing would be.
You're worried about him calling you Al? He called me Al's Robin. Imagine the hellspawn that thing would be.
Opening the Black Dossier: The Alan Moore Interview, Part Two - Nov 14, 2007 - 03:15pm
You're worried about him calling you Al? He called me Al's Robin. Imagine the hellspawn that thing would be.
You're worried about him calling you Al? He called me Al's Robin. Imagine the hellspawn that thing would be.
Opening the Black Dossier: The Alan Moore Interview, Part Two - Nov 14, 2007 - 12:14pm
Jedi - I'm not sure about Canada, but I know it isn't going to be allowed in the UK until 2008 because some of the characters still have copyright issues. It's very likely the same problem in the great white north.
Jedi - I'm not sure about Canada, but I know it isn't going to be allowed in the UK until 2008 because some of the characters still have copyright issues. It's very likely the same problem in the great white north.
Opening the Black Dossier: The Alan Moore Interview, Part Two - Nov 14, 2007 - 11:41am
#1 - I'm with you 100%. The Spinner Rack is a disgusting display of all that is wrong with humanity. We should take those responsible, especially Ben, tar and feather them and drag them behind a 70's station wagon with that fake wood siding and a family of inbreds in the backseat throwing soiled diapers at them. #7 - You got to give me a little bit of a break. I live on an island in Alaska so I don't get much in the way of honest dialog with people who share my interests, the same kind of people who would inform me as to the appropriateness of my pop-culture references. In the future I will try to get jiggy with what you are saying and if I screw up again know that I am saying D'oh to myself. I continue to attempt to make the Spinner Rack as radical as possible while also remembering to use my Care Bear Stare to better your lives through my l33t skills.
#1 - I'm with you 100%. The Spinner Rack is a disgusting display of all that is wrong with humanity. We should take those responsible, especially Ben, tar and feather them and drag them behind a 70's station wagon with that fake wood siding and a family of inbreds in the backseat throwing soiled diapers at them. #7 - You got to give me a little bit of a break. I live on an island in Alaska so I don't get much in the way of honest dialog with people who share my interests, the same kind of people who would inform me as to the appropriateness of my pop-culture references. In the future I will try to get jiggy with what you are saying and if I screw up again know that I am saying D'oh to myself. I continue to attempt to make the Spinner Rack as radical as possible while also remembering to use my Care Bear Stare to better your lives through my l33t skills.
Opening the Black Dossier: The Alan Moore Interview, Part One - Nov 08, 2007 - 02:22pm
Ben here, You guys have no idea what Kurt has to do to land an interview with Alan Moore. He went through the process with me once, but my brain clicked off when he went into some of the more arcane creole practices involved, but I cry myself to sleep every night thinking about it. @celt6: You should read the comments Kurt edits for content.
Ben here, You guys have no idea what Kurt has to do to land an interview with Alan Moore. He went through the process with me once, but my brain clicked off when he went into some of the more arcane creole practices involved, but I cry myself to sleep every night thinking about it. @celt6: You should read the comments Kurt edits for content.
DC Goes to the Movies (or Doesn’t) - Oct 31, 2007 - 03:25pm
Isn't WB doing a movie about Green Arrow in a prison fighting villians? I think the movie was named after the prison and Green Arrow will not be in costume. Help me out here.
Isn't WB doing a movie about Green Arrow in a prison fighting villians? I think the movie was named after the prison and Green Arrow will not be in costume. Help me out here.
Drawing Blood with Steve Niles - Oct 19, 2007 - 02:57pm
I was in Barrow this week (the reason for me not bringing the funniest jokes ever) and the general mood is that Steve Niles and the folks behind this movie are jack-asses. They are pissed about the way their town is represented, and I can kind of understand. There are 6000 year round residents in Barrow, which makes it one of the largest cities in Alaska. They have ammenities such as an indoor football field for their high school team, 2 olympic swimming pools, an indoor track and field facility and an indoor playground about 50 times the size of your standard McDonalds. The houses are well kept, and the people who live there are some of the most well off in Alaska (oil workers). Oh, and there is almost no snow there and what does fall just collects in drifts against houses. And thus ends my report on the general mood of the people in Barrow in regards to 30 Days of Night.
I was in Barrow this week (the reason for me not bringing the funniest jokes ever) and the general mood is that Steve Niles and the folks behind this movie are jack-asses. They are pissed about the way their town is represented, and I can kind of understand. There are 6000 year round residents in Barrow, which makes it one of the largest cities in Alaska. They have ammenities such as an indoor football field for their high school team, 2 olympic swimming pools, an indoor track and field facility and an indoor playground about 50 times the size of your standard McDonalds. The houses are well kept, and the people who live there are some of the most well off in Alaska (oil workers). Oh, and there is almost no snow there and what does fall just collects in drifts against houses. And thus ends my report on the general mood of the people in Barrow in regards to 30 Days of Night.
30 DAYS OF NIGHT - Oct 19, 2007 - 02:34pm
I was just in Barrow this week and the general mood in town is that the people behind this movie can go f**k themselves. The Barrow I saw and the Barrow in the previews are two very different places. The population year-round is 6,000, if it dropped below that oil production would dry up. And with oil jobs comes big money. They have an indoor football field that was just finished. There is harldy any snow, just a few inches a year and what does fall builds up in drifts against buildings. Not really nitpicking (I understand it is fiction), just reporting on the general feeling in the town where the movie is based.
I was just in Barrow this week and the general mood in town is that the people behind this movie can go f**k themselves. The Barrow I saw and the Barrow in the previews are two very different places. The population year-round is 6,000, if it dropped below that oil production would dry up. And with oil jobs comes big money. They have an indoor football field that was just finished. There is harldy any snow, just a few inches a year and what does fall builds up in drifts against buildings. Not really nitpicking (I understand it is fiction), just reporting on the general feeling in the town where the movie is based.
Continuing Continuity: Your Letters - Sep 27, 2007 - 06:54pm
Oh Merin come on, you know I was a big supporter of Countdown when it started, but it has just turned into a mess. And discounting Young Avengers, which isn't running right now, Initiative is the only game in town. Mighty and New are just a bit weak. "You're a skrull. No you are. No you are." And that is better than the drivel in Mighty Avengers. But you're right - please, never click a link I put up. I'm a total jerk and like to cause other people intense pain.
Oh Merin come on, you know I was a big supporter of Countdown when it started, but it has just turned into a mess. And discounting Young Avengers, which isn't running right now, Initiative is the only game in town. Mighty and New are just a bit weak. "You're a skrull. No you are. No you are." And that is better than the drivel in Mighty Avengers. But you're right - please, never click a link I put up. I'm a total jerk and like to cause other people intense pain.
Continuing Continuity: Your Letters - Sep 26, 2007 - 12:21pm
#4 The problem is that Diamond only lists seperately the publshers they refer to as platinum - Marvel, DC, Image, Dark Horse and for some reason Acclaim. Everyone else gets lumped together and listing everything that comes out week in and week out is way more work than I would do for free. Email Diamond, tell them they suck and to change their ways. I'd like to do listings for Dynamite and Boom! but it's too much of a pain right now.
#4 The problem is that Diamond only lists seperately the publshers they refer to as platinum - Marvel, DC, Image, Dark Horse and for some reason Acclaim. Everyone else gets lumped together and listing everything that comes out week in and week out is way more work than I would do for free. Email Diamond, tell them they suck and to change their ways. I'd like to do listings for Dynamite and Boom! but it's too much of a pain right now.
Continuing Continuity: Your Letters - Sep 26, 2007 - 11:25am
Al reads all his books drunk and was disapointed that the hot blond chick he was checking out through his beer goggles was really Thor.
Al reads all his books drunk and was disapointed that the hot blond chick he was checking out through his beer goggles was really Thor.
Cycle of Gimmicks - Sep 12, 2007 - 04:19pm
What really surprises me about the current state of cross-overs is that there are many I don't enjoy know matter how drunk I am. If a person can't enjoy a comic after shooting a bottle of Thunderbird or OE then that book just doesn't deserve to be.
What really surprises me about the current state of cross-overs is that there are many I don't enjoy know matter how drunk I am. If a person can't enjoy a comic after shooting a bottle of Thunderbird or OE then that book just doesn't deserve to be.
More Mutants in WOLVERINE? - Sep 12, 2007 - 03:30pm
Oh boy, I hope it's Shatterstar and Cable - They are the raddest mutant ever to strap on shoulder pads. All joking aside, Deadpool would be freaking sweet.
Oh boy, I hope it's Shatterstar and Cable - They are the raddest mutant ever to strap on shoulder pads. All joking aside, Deadpool would be freaking sweet.
Cycle of Gimmicks - Sep 12, 2007 - 11:48am
Last week after I read Amazing Spider-Man #544 I wrote a blurb in the comment section about how good it was. Then, after I sobered up (literally) I read it again. My suggestion is, if you are going to read Spider-Man #544 do it after 3 drinks. The quality will improve dramatically.
Last week after I read Amazing Spider-Man #544 I wrote a blurb in the comment section about how good it was. Then, after I sobered up (literally) I read it again. My suggestion is, if you are going to read Spider-Man #544 do it after 3 drinks. The quality will improve dramatically.
Digging Up Deady with Voltaire - Sep 05, 2007 - 07:38pm
So after reading the first part of One More Day I decided that I would further flood the comment section and apologize for my attack on the editorial direction. While the direction of the story may or may not be a mistake, and taking into mind that my previous commment reported on a rumor, I have to say that Amazing Spider-Man 544 was incredible. This is THE story right now. Ignore the mega-events, the semi-megas, whatever, and read this. I can't speak for the following chapters, but this first one... I just, I had emotion. I got angry, angrier, apologetic, happy, understanding, cheerful - on and on. Read Amazing 544. Great book!
So after reading the first part of One More Day I decided that I would further flood the comment section and apologize for my attack on the editorial direction. While the direction of the story may or may not be a mistake, and taking into mind that my previous commment reported on a rumor, I have to say that Amazing Spider-Man 544 was incredible. This is THE story right now. Ignore the mega-events, the semi-megas, whatever, and read this. I can't speak for the following chapters, but this first one... I just, I had emotion. I got angry, angrier, apologetic, happy, understanding, cheerful - on and on. Read Amazing 544. Great book!
Digging Up Deady with Voltaire - Sep 05, 2007 - 06:33pm
My God Kurt, how could you not know? Spider-Man OMD is One More Day in which it is rumored that Peter Parker and Mary Jane-Parker have only one day left to spend together before something takes her away. "Steve Niles Strange Cases #1 $2.50 Ben: Horror goodness from the comics master. Kurt: Dan Wickline actually wrote the scripts, but Steve came up with the ideas." It makes me chortle that you know about this and not One More Day.
My God Kurt, how could you not know? Spider-Man OMD is One More Day in which it is rumored that Peter Parker and Mary Jane-Parker have only one day left to spend together before something takes her away. "Steve Niles Strange Cases #1 $2.50 Ben: Horror goodness from the comics master. Kurt: Dan Wickline actually wrote the scripts, but Steve came up with the ideas." It makes me chortle that you know about this and not One More Day.
A Critic’s Eye for the Comic Guy - Aug 29, 2007 - 01:57pm
I don't write comics professionally (damn you diamond) but I do write for a living, specifically, I write grant proposals. The output is dry, but the work behind some proposals is immense. Research, writing, communication, finalizing and acceptance all represent huge amounts of time, and there is always a deadline. It is the writers job to ensure that their best work is done by the deadline. It's part of the job. Could quality be improved with less scheduling restraints? Sure, but that sounds more like a hobby than a job. P.S. I still like big boobs.
I don't write comics professionally (damn you diamond) but I do write for a living, specifically, I write grant proposals. The output is dry, but the work behind some proposals is immense. Research, writing, communication, finalizing and acceptance all represent huge amounts of time, and there is always a deadline. It is the writers job to ensure that their best work is done by the deadline. It's part of the job. Could quality be improved with less scheduling restraints? Sure, but that sounds more like a hobby than a job. P.S. I still like big boobs.
A Critic’s Eye for the Comic Guy - Aug 29, 2007 - 11:40am
Ben here- Thanks for the cover Kurt, but in all honesty I sent Kurt a Spinner Rack from July. This wasn't an accident however. I was inspired by God this week as I wrote the Rack, and as He is perfect so are His jokes it caused the two people who read the listings to laugh until their stomachs ruptured. To save you all I sent Kurt the wrong one and pretended it was an honest mistake. The original has been sent to Rome for safe keeping. You're welcome.
Ben here- Thanks for the cover Kurt, but in all honesty I sent Kurt a Spinner Rack from July. This wasn't an accident however. I was inspired by God this week as I wrote the Rack, and as He is perfect so are His jokes it caused the two people who read the listings to laugh until their stomachs ruptured. To save you all I sent Kurt the wrong one and pretended it was an honest mistake. The original has been sent to Rome for safe keeping. You're welcome.
Counting Blood with Glenn Danzig - Aug 22, 2007 - 07:12pm
Booster Gold is the new black. Hey Kurt, now you have to wear Booster Gold!
Booster Gold is the new black. Hey Kurt, now you have to wear Booster Gold!
Anti-Religion Not in GOLDEN COMPASS - Aug 21, 2007 - 05:52pm
I am not a catholic, nor do I try to hide child rape. I also do whatever I can to stay away from doing opposite of what I say. I am a pastor at a local church, not a priest. I don't know where the misunderstanding came into play, but you sound angry about the state of the world. I would be happy to further explain what I'm trying to get across. Message me if you have anymore questios.
I am not a catholic, nor do I try to hide child rape. I also do whatever I can to stay away from doing opposite of what I say. I am a pastor at a local church, not a priest. I don't know where the misunderstanding came into play, but you sound angry about the state of the world. I would be happy to further explain what I'm trying to get across. Message me if you have anymore questios.
Anti-Religion Not in GOLDEN COMPASS - Aug 21, 2007 - 03:11pm
"agentcooper, if you carefully reread the posts you will realize that most comments aren't anti atheist/augnostic. It is the very opposite. People seem to resent Christian themes in their films, but are fine with anything that supports antisentiment. Which is fine. Their choice. But, a lot of opinions seem to stem from ignorance for that which they speak. Or, maybe just a bad experience." If I wasn't clear I'm sorry. I realize people are not anti-atheist/agnostic on the board and in many case are very anti-Christian. I agree that some of this is due to lack of understanding and bad experiences, but also that a large number of people are responding to the atmosphere of the world, an atmosphere created in part by Christians who are intolerant of others. It is those I apologize on behalf of. Honestly, it does hurt my feelings a bit when I read the very hateful way that some people regard Christians and the religious, but like I said in my previous post: They are not Christian and cannot be expected to behave as if they were. Christians, on the other hand, are Christians and should behave as such.
"agentcooper, if you carefully reread the posts you will realize that most comments aren't anti atheist/augnostic. It is the very opposite. People seem to resent Christian themes in their films, but are fine with anything that supports antisentiment. Which is fine. Their choice. But, a lot of opinions seem to stem from ignorance for that which they speak. Or, maybe just a bad experience." If I wasn't clear I'm sorry. I realize people are not anti-atheist/agnostic on the board and in many case are very anti-Christian. I agree that some of this is due to lack of understanding and bad experiences, but also that a large number of people are responding to the atmosphere of the world, an atmosphere created in part by Christians who are intolerant of others. It is those I apologize on behalf of. Honestly, it does hurt my feelings a bit when I read the very hateful way that some people regard Christians and the religious, but like I said in my previous post: They are not Christian and cannot be expected to behave as if they were. Christians, on the other hand, are Christians and should behave as such.
Anti-Religion Not in GOLDEN COMPASS - Aug 21, 2007 - 02:36pm
I can understand the anti-religious sentiment that many people here are expressing and can empathize with their feelings. As a working pastor and a Christian, I personally do not agree with the views expressed (like a ton of bricks in the third book) by the author. However, the author is not a Christian, and therefore should not be held to Christian values. I go crazy trying to make people understand this. We (Christians) cannot expect people who do not believe the same things we do to act as if they do. It isn't logical and it isn't biblical. I could write a massive Merin-caliber rant about this, but instead let me apologize. I'm sorry that the people who identify themselves as Christian attempt to force the non-believers to live within constricted moral circumstances. I'm sorry that they have been doing this for years. I'm sorry that they blame others for the problems of the world instead of looking inside and seeing how they contribute to the problem more than most groups.
I can understand the anti-religious sentiment that many people here are expressing and can empathize with their feelings. As a working pastor and a Christian, I personally do not agree with the views expressed (like a ton of bricks in the third book) by the author. However, the author is not a Christian, and therefore should not be held to Christian values. I go crazy trying to make people understand this. We (Christians) cannot expect people who do not believe the same things we do to act as if they do. It isn't logical and it isn't biblical. I could write a massive Merin-caliber rant about this, but instead let me apologize. I'm sorry that the people who identify themselves as Christian attempt to force the non-believers to live within constricted moral circumstances. I'm sorry that they have been doing this for years. I'm sorry that they blame others for the problems of the world instead of looking inside and seeing how they contribute to the problem more than most groups.
Offbeat Observations - Aug 17, 2007 - 08:36pm
What about the non-superhero things he has accomplished? When was the last time stores opened at midnight for a comic book release? I don't know of it ever happening outside of the recent Gunslinger #1. The mainstream is finally starting to find a place in the industry and Joe Q has had a big hand in that.
What about the non-superhero things he has accomplished? When was the last time stores opened at midnight for a comic book release? I don't know of it ever happening outside of the recent Gunslinger #1. The mainstream is finally starting to find a place in the industry and Joe Q has had a big hand in that.
Offbeat Observations - Aug 15, 2007 - 04:46pm
I might not agree with everything Joe Q has done, but overall the Marvel line is greatly improved. Not just hero books either, Dark Tower, Classics Ill. and stealing everything from Dabel has changed the entire industry.
I might not agree with everything Joe Q has done, but overall the Marvel line is greatly improved. Not just hero books either, Dark Tower, Classics Ill. and stealing everything from Dabel has changed the entire industry.
Offbeat Observations - Aug 15, 2007 - 11:24am
Quesada has been hinting for some time that he believes MJ should go down. Who knows if it will ever happen but he talks about it a lot. Kurt - CD is Countdown, AA is Amazons Attack, WWH is World War Hulk, etc.
Quesada has been hinting for some time that he believes MJ should go down. Who knows if it will ever happen but he talks about it a lot. Kurt - CD is Countdown, AA is Amazons Attack, WWH is World War Hulk, etc.
The Dreaded Comic-Con Recap - Aug 01, 2007 - 11:48am
I can't believe how much news you left out. Laziness can be the only excuse. I expect a full run down so that I don't have to do the work and read it on another web site.
I can't believe how much news you left out. Laziness can be the only excuse. I expect a full run down so that I don't have to do the work and read it on another web site.
News and Notes Before the Storm - Jul 26, 2007 - 03:28pm
I don't know if anyone else thought it was funny, but you got me with the May Parker intro. Good stuff.
I don't know if anyone else thought it was funny, but you got me with the May Parker intro. Good stuff.
THE 4400: The Marked - Jul 24, 2007 - 05:08pm
This was my favorite episode to date. And yes, it felt like a good X-Files episode.
This was my favorite episode to date. And yes, it felt like a good X-Files episode.
Reading Comics on the Phone or How I Stopped Worrying and Learned to Love Clickwheel - Jul 20, 2007 - 06:26pm
Congrats on the baby Ben, glad you're wife didn't die. I feel so unloved.
Congrats on the baby Ben, glad you're wife didn't die. I feel so unloved.
Reading Comics on the Phone or How I Stopped Worrying and Learned to Love Clickwheel - Jul 18, 2007 - 01:47pm
And to think, I was trying to start controversy.
And to think, I was trying to start controversy.
Reading Comics on the Phone or How I Stopped Worrying and Learned to Love Clickwheel - Jul 18, 2007 - 12:25pm
Click Wheel sounds OK, but like everything else the content is where it's at. And to get people to start commenting I have a comment: 52 sucks, Superboy Prime is awesome, and Civil War was the best thing to evr happen to comics.
Click Wheel sounds OK, but like everything else the content is where it's at. And to get people to start commenting I have a comment: 52 sucks, Superboy Prime is awesome, and Civil War was the best thing to evr happen to comics.
A Fantastic Feud: Your Letters - Jun 28, 2007 - 01:34pm
Al - WTF! It's my job to poke fun at Merin now. Ben
Al - WTF! It's my job to poke fun at Merin now. Ben
A Fantastic Feud: Your Letters - Jun 27, 2007 - 12:52pm
"...so far. If it ends with Hulk looking around at the damage and surrendering to Iron Man I am so never reading a Marvel comic again. " Good one! Seriously though, if it ends without delving into the issue of the damage, loss of life, and breach of rights caused by the Illuminati and the greater issues this can be tied to in our world I will be very disapointed. I want to see Hulk beat the crap out of the Marvel U, but I want substance even more.
"...so far. If it ends with Hulk looking around at the damage and surrendering to Iron Man I am so never reading a Marvel comic again. " Good one! Seriously though, if it ends without delving into the issue of the damage, loss of life, and breach of rights caused by the Illuminati and the greater issues this can be tied to in our world I will be very disapointed. I want to see Hulk beat the crap out of the Marvel U, but I want substance even more.
My Thoughts on FANTASTIC FOUR: RISE OF THE SILVER SURFER - Jun 22, 2007 - 02:35pm
On a totally unrelated note, has anyone read Flash #13? -Spoiler- Being a Flash and an alumni of Young Justice seems to be a very bad idea. It was a very well done story, but Bart was one of my favorites and (I can't believe I'm writing this) I hope he isn't dead. First Conner, then Bart. If Tim goes down I might have to join them.
On a totally unrelated note, has anyone read Flash #13? -Spoiler- Being a Flash and an alumni of Young Justice seems to be a very bad idea. It was a very well done story, but Bart was one of my favorites and (I can't believe I'm writing this) I hope he isn't dead. First Conner, then Bart. If Tim goes down I might have to join them.
My Thoughts on FANTASTIC FOUR: RISE OF THE SILVER SURFER - Jun 22, 2007 - 01:37pm
"I did, however, enjoy playing darts with friends in college and with buddies in my Army unit. Though, true, enjoying playing darts clearly puts me in the "dart enjoyment" group and therefore anything I say can be ignored by the "non-dart fan" group." Touche
"I did, however, enjoy playing darts with friends in college and with buddies in my Army unit. Though, true, enjoying playing darts clearly puts me in the "dart enjoyment" group and therefore anything I say can be ignored by the "non-dart fan" group." Touche
My Thoughts on FANTASTIC FOUR: RISE OF THE SILVER SURFER - Jun 22, 2007 - 12:08pm
Merin and Lister - Your views on Iceman are rendered irrelevant because of your musical interests, the clothes you wear and your predisposition to fans of darts. Iceman - Your views are irrelevant because you have a kid and don't live in your parent’s basement but most of all because you admitted to listening to Celine Dion without contemplating suicide.
Merin and Lister - Your views on Iceman are rendered irrelevant because of your musical interests, the clothes you wear and your predisposition to fans of darts. Iceman - Your views are irrelevant because you have a kid and don't live in your parent’s basement but most of all because you admitted to listening to Celine Dion without contemplating suicide.
My Thoughts on FANTASTIC FOUR: RISE OF THE SILVER SURFER - Jun 21, 2007 - 11:54am
Oh, and he liked Witchblade/ Punisher, which is much worse than all the above.
Oh, and he liked Witchblade/ Punisher, which is much worse than all the above.
My Thoughts on FANTASTIC FOUR: RISE OF THE SILVER SURFER - Jun 21, 2007 - 11:50am
#22 and everyone else - Ben here (not Kurt, but he is apparently a cat murdering psychopath so you probably don't want his opinion anyway). The 0 issue of Black Summer has promise for sure, but it is really only going to be for people who want a heavy dose of politics in their comics, which if I remember correctly from previous discussion is not most people who post here. I'm not most people. Boys has also been excellent in the most twisted way. The ultimate deconstruction of superheroes I've yet to see to the point where I believe the author may be parodying deconstruction. Criminal is incredible. I keep writer love letters to Brubaker but he has yet to take me up on a weekend of hot tubbing in Alaska. As for everyone else here - I've been trying to tell all of you for so long that Kurt is of extremely low moral fiber but if you're going to throw stones throw the right ones. Kurt likes cats, maybe a bit more than he should. Everyday when he gets home he dusts off his porcelain cat collection, feeds the forty furry beasts he keeps at home and then knits sweaters from the hair balls he finds around the floor. He actually sacrifices babies then eats them raw. That is why his FF2 review is not valid. He is high on baby blood and stem cells and can't concentrate on what is happening on the big screen. And he wears black clothing, so he is probably the lost member of the Trench Coat Mafia, the people behind the columbine massacre. I smell evil.
#22 and everyone else - Ben here (not Kurt, but he is apparently a cat murdering psychopath so you probably don't want his opinion anyway). The 0 issue of Black Summer has promise for sure, but it is really only going to be for people who want a heavy dose of politics in their comics, which if I remember correctly from previous discussion is not most people who post here. I'm not most people. Boys has also been excellent in the most twisted way. The ultimate deconstruction of superheroes I've yet to see to the point where I believe the author may be parodying deconstruction. Criminal is incredible. I keep writer love letters to Brubaker but he has yet to take me up on a weekend of hot tubbing in Alaska. As for everyone else here - I've been trying to tell all of you for so long that Kurt is of extremely low moral fiber but if you're going to throw stones throw the right ones. Kurt likes cats, maybe a bit more than he should. Everyday when he gets home he dusts off his porcelain cat collection, feeds the forty furry beasts he keeps at home and then knits sweaters from the hair balls he finds around the floor. He actually sacrifices babies then eats them raw. That is why his FF2 review is not valid. He is high on baby blood and stem cells and can't concentrate on what is happening on the big screen. And he wears black clothing, so he is probably the lost member of the Trench Coat Mafia, the people behind the columbine massacre. I smell evil.
My Thoughts on FANTASTIC FOUR: RISE OF THE SILVER SURFER - Jun 20, 2007 - 12:00pm
"Flash The Fastest Man Alive #13 $2.99 Ben: After the travesty that was the first few issues this has become one of my must reads. And now its canceled. Way to go, Ben." Larkcall is right, it is not cancelled, but if it was how would that be my fault? Merin - Loved the Nova and Stark interaction. Better yet was when he started reading the Thunderbolts their rights.
"Flash The Fastest Man Alive #13 $2.99 Ben: After the travesty that was the first few issues this has become one of my must reads. And now its canceled. Way to go, Ben." Larkcall is right, it is not cancelled, but if it was how would that be my fault? Merin - Loved the Nova and Stark interaction. Better yet was when he started reading the Thunderbolts their rights.
Another Trip to the Buffet - Jun 13, 2007 - 10:28pm
#2 Peter David's run on Friendly Neighborhood has been excellent, but of course the clowns who write THIS colomn don't like it.... You have to be kidding. Uncle Ben from an alternate dimension is replaced by a future chameleon who has already killed future spider-man, but then present spider-man gets his helmet and... Nevermind. Biggest turd of the year. As for the FF and Ghost Rider movies. FF was corny, goofy and sappy - just like it should have been. GR was the worst movie I enjoyed all year. I can't recommend it to people, but I love it all the same.
#2 Peter David's run on Friendly Neighborhood has been excellent, but of course the clowns who write THIS colomn don't like it.... You have to be kidding. Uncle Ben from an alternate dimension is replaced by a future chameleon who has already killed future spider-man, but then present spider-man gets his helmet and... Nevermind. Biggest turd of the year. As for the FF and Ghost Rider movies. FF was corny, goofy and sappy - just like it should have been. GR was the worst movie I enjoyed all year. I can't recommend it to people, but I love it all the same.
Hell Hath No Fury - Jun 11, 2007 - 09:25pm
Merin, I decided to try the same thing, asking my wife. Here are her answers: Me: Look at this picture for a minute, in all corners, really take it in. What do you see? Mrs. Kooper: Is that (semen) on her chest? Me: What do you think is happening in this picture? Mrs. Kooper: They're about to be raped. Me: Would you want (our six year-old daughter) to walk by this in a store. Mrs. Kooper: No. I'd be really pissed if I saw you reading it. I think stinky comic readers arguing about this topic will go nowhere real fast. Take the cover to women and ask them what they think. I'd be very interested in the results.
Merin, I decided to try the same thing, asking my wife. Here are her answers: Me: Look at this picture for a minute, in all corners, really take it in. What do you see? Mrs. Kooper: Is that (semen) on her chest? Me: What do you think is happening in this picture? Mrs. Kooper: They're about to be raped. Me: Would you want (our six year-old daughter) to walk by this in a store. Mrs. Kooper: No. I'd be really pissed if I saw you reading it. I think stinky comic readers arguing about this topic will go nowhere real fast. Take the cover to women and ask them what they think. I'd be very interested in the results.
In The Shadows - May 26, 2007 - 03:10am
I think it is Vista only, but I know that you can only play against Xbox users if you pay for Windows Live Gold.
I think it is Vista only, but I know that you can only play against Xbox users if you pay for Windows Live Gold.
Exploding Heads: My Thoughts on 52 - May 24, 2007 - 12:14am
Yes, Teen Titans has been on a sharp downhill slide ever since One Year Later. Then again, I was a devoted Young Justice fan, so seeing the old team split up during Infinite Crisis and beyond was enough to turn me off. I don't feel like DC gave that group enough time in that age group.
Yes, Teen Titans has been on a sharp downhill slide ever since One Year Later. Then again, I was a devoted Young Justice fan, so seeing the old team split up during Infinite Crisis and beyond was enough to turn me off. I don't feel like DC gave that group enough time in that age group.
Exploding Heads: My Thoughts on 52 - May 23, 2007 - 07:42pm
#11 ""I was so disappointed in the rushed ending to 52 I wanted to pour lighter fluid on the stack and watch it burn." Hyperbole. The benchmark of a winning argument." Not an argument, more of an over statement for effect. "Ahem - about a year of build up for a huge Marvel super-hero throw down, we get one poorly depicted and unresolved conflict in NYC in which Captain America surrenders as he was about to win the fight. You want to be let down by being given 5 freaking issues of story in one week (4 WW III and an issue of 52) but are ok with the very late and almost absolutely pointless Civil War issue 7." I'm not sure why you are writing as if I enjoyed Civil War more than 52. Previously my only statements about Civil War are that I am impressed by Marvel's willingness to shake up the status quo and interested in what happens next. If I ever referred to it as 'good' that is what I am referencing. I am not a fan of the Civil War series and feel that the entire arc proper could have (and should have) been wrapped up in four issues, just like I felt DC could have put together the greatest event in modern comics, even had the right story lined up, but poor editorial choices and bad pacing dragged a great idea down. I enjoyed 52 up until WWIII and hope that Countdown can redeem the idea of a year long weekly. Out of curiosity, did you check out the Marvel Adventures line yet? I'd like to hear what you think of them. #12 - Lister Lame is in reference to a skit called Lame List on Seattle TV show Almost Live. I'm not explaining it so you'll think it's funny, but now you know why a very few people I know personally will find it funny. Next week I will be working to bring back 'Where's the Beef'. You are forewarned.
#11 ""I was so disappointed in the rushed ending to 52 I wanted to pour lighter fluid on the stack and watch it burn." Hyperbole. The benchmark of a winning argument." Not an argument, more of an over statement for effect. "Ahem - about a year of build up for a huge Marvel super-hero throw down, we get one poorly depicted and unresolved conflict in NYC in which Captain America surrenders as he was about to win the fight. You want to be let down by being given 5 freaking issues of story in one week (4 WW III and an issue of 52) but are ok with the very late and almost absolutely pointless Civil War issue 7." I'm not sure why you are writing as if I enjoyed Civil War more than 52. Previously my only statements about Civil War are that I am impressed by Marvel's willingness to shake up the status quo and interested in what happens next. If I ever referred to it as 'good' that is what I am referencing. I am not a fan of the Civil War series and feel that the entire arc proper could have (and should have) been wrapped up in four issues, just like I felt DC could have put together the greatest event in modern comics, even had the right story lined up, but poor editorial choices and bad pacing dragged a great idea down. I enjoyed 52 up until WWIII and hope that Countdown can redeem the idea of a year long weekly. Out of curiosity, did you check out the Marvel Adventures line yet? I'd like to hear what you think of them. #12 - Lister Lame is in reference to a skit called Lame List on Seattle TV show Almost Live. I'm not explaining it so you'll think it's funny, but now you know why a very few people I know personally will find it funny. Next week I will be working to bring back 'Where's the Beef'. You are forewarned.
Exploding Heads: My Thoughts on 52 - May 23, 2007 - 04:49pm
#8 Do you have any idea how hard it is to come up with jokes about the same titles every week? Tell you what, if I'm not funny next week you can have my paycheck.
#8 Do you have any idea how hard it is to come up with jokes about the same titles every week? Tell you what, if I'm not funny next week you can have my paycheck.
Exploding Heads: My Thoughts on 52 - May 23, 2007 - 12:13pm
I was so disappointed in the rushed ending to 52 I wanted to pour lighter fluid on the stack and watch it burn. WWIII in one week? They had 52 to work with. It could have been an epic battle across the world with devastation wrought at home and abroad. Instead, it mostly went down in China, a setting very few stories take place in. Two years of mega-events, another starting now, and nothing happened that will regularly (key word is regularly) affect most characters except when a plot devise is needed to explain away poor writing. I do, however, have high hopes for Countdown (fooled me twice DC, so I might as well belly up for more shame). I really hope the story is better paced, with a well thought out ending. I have great hope in Dini's ability.
I was so disappointed in the rushed ending to 52 I wanted to pour lighter fluid on the stack and watch it burn. WWIII in one week? They had 52 to work with. It could have been an epic battle across the world with devastation wrought at home and abroad. Instead, it mostly went down in China, a setting very few stories take place in. Two years of mega-events, another starting now, and nothing happened that will regularly (key word is regularly) affect most characters except when a plot devise is needed to explain away poor writing. I do, however, have high hopes for Countdown (fooled me twice DC, so I might as well belly up for more shame). I really hope the story is better paced, with a well thought out ending. I have great hope in Dini's ability.
Does Whatever a Mailbag Can - May 16, 2007 - 02:16pm
I started picking up the Marvel Adventures line for my six year old daughter. While I still claim this as pretense I would continue to buy them if she stopped showing interest. They are fun, well written stories that have character progression and long form story telling.
I started picking up the Marvel Adventures line for my six year old daughter. While I still claim this as pretense I would continue to buy them if she stopped showing interest. They are fun, well written stories that have character progression and long form story telling.
NBC Announces HEROES: ORIGINS - May 14, 2007 - 01:28pm
This is a great idea. Anything that brings me more Heroes is super-double-awesome.
This is a great idea. Anything that brings me more Heroes is super-double-awesome.
JERICHO: Why We Fight - May 11, 2007 - 12:33pm
#2 and #3 The Commander at the army base told Heather that their are still hold-outs including Texas and an Eastern Block. I'm thinking that the Eastern Block is the original United States Government, Texas is, well, Texas and the stars on the flag represent the states claimed by the people behind the attack. Total speculation, but there it is
#2 and #3 The Commander at the army base told Heather that their are still hold-outs including Texas and an Eastern Block. I'm thinking that the Eastern Block is the original United States Government, Texas is, well, Texas and the stars on the flag represent the states claimed by the people behind the attack. Total speculation, but there it is
Taking the Good with the Bad: My Thoughts on Spider-Man 3 - May 10, 2007 - 12:03pm
#17 - Merin Read Eternals. The best Marvel Mini-Series in a very long time. Kirby would be proud. As for Thunderbolts, I'm not into the darkness of humanity thing, but I am a life long Spider-man fan and this series is the first (at least in a very long time) that digs into Norman Osborn. His descent/return to insanity is enough to keep me hooked. The rest of the team, not so much. #10 - Lister I have happily eaten my words when it comes to Mr. Whedon. All of his books are incredibly fun reads.
#17 - Merin Read Eternals. The best Marvel Mini-Series in a very long time. Kirby would be proud. As for Thunderbolts, I'm not into the darkness of humanity thing, but I am a life long Spider-man fan and this series is the first (at least in a very long time) that digs into Norman Osborn. His descent/return to insanity is enough to keep me hooked. The rest of the team, not so much. #10 - Lister I have happily eaten my words when it comes to Mr. Whedon. All of his books are incredibly fun reads.
Taking the Good with the Bad: My Thoughts on Spider-Man 3 - May 09, 2007 - 06:17pm
#6 - Merin Oh, and - "Gen13 by Simone IS very well written; Thunderbolts stinks to high heaven and has for so long its ridiculous the title still exists; Countdown will be well worth the money if it is half as good as 52 and manages to be released on schedule." Gen 13 drags, Thunderbolts as lead by Norman Osborn is the new black, and if Countdown is half as good as 52 it will be a quarter good as 52 wasn't half bad.
#6 - Merin Oh, and - "Gen13 by Simone IS very well written; Thunderbolts stinks to high heaven and has for so long its ridiculous the title still exists; Countdown will be well worth the money if it is half as good as 52 and manages to be released on schedule." Gen 13 drags, Thunderbolts as lead by Norman Osborn is the new black, and if Countdown is half as good as 52 it will be a quarter good as 52 wasn't half bad.
What Free Comic Book Day? - May 02, 2007 - 03:59pm
Ben here, I worked at a comic shop in high school and early college, before it went out of business, and during that time I grew to hate diamond. The system is designed to screw the smaller retailers. No other print distributor uses policies like these bastards. Kurt: I actually had to look up his name to get your joke. I’m kind of happy when I don’t know about pop music. I actually had to look up his name to write the joke.
Ben here, I worked at a comic shop in high school and early college, before it went out of business, and during that time I grew to hate diamond. The system is designed to screw the smaller retailers. No other print distributor uses policies like these bastards. Kurt: I actually had to look up his name to get your joke. I’m kind of happy when I don’t know about pop music. I actually had to look up his name to write the joke.
One Comicscape About Many Things - Apr 25, 2007 - 11:46am
Ben Here- Kurt, as much as it pains me to admit it, I have to agree with you that the first Hulk movie was well done, but I liked Superman Returns also so I must have poor taste in movies. X-men: First Class has been excellent so far. I only fear that moving the title to a monthly ongoing will effect the flow of the story.
Ben Here- Kurt, as much as it pains me to admit it, I have to agree with you that the first Hulk movie was well done, but I liked Superman Returns also so I must have poor taste in movies. X-men: First Class has been excellent so far. I only fear that moving the title to a monthly ongoing will effect the flow of the story.
"Jericho" gets second season? - Apr 18, 2007 - 01:52pm
I think the sag in the story in the middle of the season was due to the surprise the show has been as popular as it has and the need to get a product out on schedule. It must be hard writing not knowing if your show needs to have a finale soon or if it's time to ramp up for an extra season. I've really enjoyed the last few weeks. Jericho seems to have hit its stride.
I think the sag in the story in the middle of the season was due to the surprise the show has been as popular as it has and the need to get a product out on schedule. It must be hard writing not knowing if your show needs to have a finale soon or if it's time to ramp up for an extra season. I've really enjoyed the last few weeks. Jericho seems to have hit its stride.
Nothing in Particular - Apr 18, 2007 - 12:44pm
Ben here - I have also found myself applauding the moves Marvel has made to diversify their lineup. I think Marvel Adventures should also be considered in the same context as Dabel Bros, etc. I know many present will not read them (or at least admit it) but I have been buying these for my daughter and have found a universe that is well written with decent art that reminds me of the more innocent days of Stan and Jack without all the awful Blah, Blah dialog. The only problem I have with Marvel expanding is the worry that the market will not expand enough to make this worthwhile. I can't add many more books to my list. I barely keep up on what I have (although my list has shrunk considerably lately) and as much as I want to support Marvel I won't purchase books I'll never have time to read.
Ben here - I have also found myself applauding the moves Marvel has made to diversify their lineup. I think Marvel Adventures should also be considered in the same context as Dabel Bros, etc. I know many present will not read them (or at least admit it) but I have been buying these for my daughter and have found a universe that is well written with decent art that reminds me of the more innocent days of Stan and Jack without all the awful Blah, Blah dialog. The only problem I have with Marvel expanding is the worry that the market will not expand enough to make this worthwhile. I can't add many more books to my list. I barely keep up on what I have (although my list has shrunk considerably lately) and as much as I want to support Marvel I won't purchase books I'll never have time to read.
Who’s your daddy? Where’s your shoes? - Apr 14, 2007 - 11:04pm
#8 Can you imagine if the creator of a story could sue every time (s)he felt that the original vision was abused? If the movie sucks, or is good but isn't "right" or is the wrong kind of great a person could sue. Bring that to a logical conclusion: Comic book writers suing because the artist didn't make big enough explosions, or novelists suing because of the jacket art. That is a terrible idea.
#8 Can you imagine if the creator of a story could sue every time (s)he felt that the original vision was abused? If the movie sucks, or is good but isn't "right" or is the wrong kind of great a person could sue. Bring that to a logical conclusion: Comic book writers suing because the artist didn't make big enough explosions, or novelists suing because of the jacket art. That is a terrible idea.
Hollywood Writers and Mainstream Acceptance - Apr 12, 2007 - 12:16am
Merin: You have no idea what you are talking about. Comic scripts are not 30 pages. You have know idea what you are talking about. What an idiot. You must be retarded. They're actually closer to 27.467238. Or if you use splash pages Jim Lee style you could probably get by with 1-2 pages.
Merin: You have no idea what you are talking about. Comic scripts are not 30 pages. You have know idea what you are talking about. What an idiot. You must be retarded. They're actually closer to 27.467238. Or if you use splash pages Jim Lee style you could probably get by with 1-2 pages.
Throwing Gas on the Flames: Your Letters - Apr 05, 2007 - 07:04pm
#16 daforce "First off, to Ben's comment that anything with Ghost Rider in the title must suck, I just have to say, you obviously don't know what you're talking about. Especially if you're still reading crap like 52." Honestly, I enjoy the concept that is Ghost Rider, and this mini is one of the better GR stories in quite some time, but because Kurt seems to have a soft spot in his heart for Flame Head I must hate it on principle. #10 and #11 Hulk 105 has me on the edge of my seat. Hulk has always been a favorite of mine and the idea of him beating Iron Man brings a (happy) tear to my eye. This could be one of the great stories. HULK SMASH indeed.
#16 daforce "First off, to Ben's comment that anything with Ghost Rider in the title must suck, I just have to say, you obviously don't know what you're talking about. Especially if you're still reading crap like 52." Honestly, I enjoy the concept that is Ghost Rider, and this mini is one of the better GR stories in quite some time, but because Kurt seems to have a soft spot in his heart for Flame Head I must hate it on principle. #10 and #11 Hulk 105 has me on the edge of my seat. Hulk has always been a favorite of mine and the idea of him beating Iron Man brings a (happy) tear to my eye. This could be one of the great stories. HULK SMASH indeed.
Means and Ends - Mar 28, 2007 - 12:44pm
Before anyone calls me on it: Ben: I liked this the first time when it had less explanation points and was called The Dark Tower. was supposed to read: I liked this the first time when it had less exclamation points and was called the Dark Tower. My editor died of a heart attack shortly before this went to press. As for Kurt's column, I love the direction comics are going. I went back and read the first couple hundred issues of Avengers, X-Men and Spider-Man and as much as they are classic and people love them, they aren't very compelling reading. I kept finding myself unable to suspend disbelief, not in regards to powers, but their reaction to the world at large. The characters, even Spider-Man, were not human. I realize that many people complain when changes come about in their favorite characters, but it is these changes that drive story. Would you read a fantasy novel about a man who was a stable hand and never left that post? No, you read to see how he becomes a world saving leader of his people. After reading the most recent issue of Amazing Spider-Man I am approaching the story with trepidation. Not that he will do something he will regret, but that the writers will chicken out before the payoff.
Before anyone calls me on it: Ben: I liked this the first time when it had less explanation points and was called The Dark Tower. was supposed to read: I liked this the first time when it had less exclamation points and was called the Dark Tower. My editor died of a heart attack shortly before this went to press. As for Kurt's column, I love the direction comics are going. I went back and read the first couple hundred issues of Avengers, X-Men and Spider-Man and as much as they are classic and people love them, they aren't very compelling reading. I kept finding myself unable to suspend disbelief, not in regards to powers, but their reaction to the world at large. The characters, even Spider-Man, were not human. I realize that many people complain when changes come about in their favorite characters, but it is these changes that drive story. Would you read a fantasy novel about a man who was a stable hand and never left that post? No, you read to see how he becomes a world saving leader of his people. After reading the most recent issue of Amazing Spider-Man I am approaching the story with trepidation. Not that he will do something he will regret, but that the writers will chicken out before the payoff.
300 and Captain America: Your Mail - Mar 21, 2007 - 12:35pm
Ben here. I can't believe how pissed off I am thinking about the story Kurt reported at the top of this column. "...the day Captain America #25 shipped, Wizard Universe stood ready with a ton of copies graded by the Comics Grading Company and more E-Bay auctions than any speculator could follow." I realize Wizard is hated by many in the fan boy nation, but do they really want to bring a s**t storm like this one their heads? The report of retailers marking up the cost upon release is just as upsetting. I hear from so many of these guys about how hard it is to drum up business and keep customers coming back. Guess what? This is NOT the way to turn that trend. Rant over.
Ben here. I can't believe how pissed off I am thinking about the story Kurt reported at the top of this column. "...the day Captain America #25 shipped, Wizard Universe stood ready with a ton of copies graded by the Comics Grading Company and more E-Bay auctions than any speculator could follow." I realize Wizard is hated by many in the fan boy nation, but do they really want to bring a s**t storm like this one their heads? The report of retailers marking up the cost upon release is just as upsetting. I hear from so many of these guys about how hard it is to drum up business and keep customers coming back. Guess what? This is NOT the way to turn that trend. Rant over.
Writer Joe Hill is Stephen King's son - Mar 19, 2007 - 02:57pm
This guy must be Joe King. I am so funny.
This guy must be Joe King. I am so funny.
Comicscape Double Feature: Captain America and 300 - Mar 14, 2007 - 11:41am
#1 - I know it's Moon Unit, but she goes by Moon and she's the child of Zappa. At least that was my rational. #7 - I'm made weary by every group's constant whining about these types of things. I haven't seen the movie, but the Spartans don't exactly come across as the nice, clean type.
#1 - I know it's Moon Unit, but she goes by Moon and she's the child of Zappa. At least that was my rational. #7 - I'm made weary by every group's constant whining about these types of things. I haven't seen the movie, but the Spartans don't exactly come across as the nice, clean type.
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Just finished reading Ultimate Hulk vs. Ultimate Wolverine #3. Wow!!! Totally blew my mind. An absolute must read, and the series is shaping up to be one of the best mini's ever.