Comments for The Wednesday Comic Review

Comment on WCR Episode #17 – “Proof, Vol 1: Goatsucker” by Angie

Angie — Thu, 01 Oct 2009 17:38:34 +0000

hey. I have to add, that after listening I sound like I was really ambivalent about the book. I actually really liked it believe it or not, and PC or not, I am not its a fun read. I have to get the others to catch up…

Comment on WCR Episode #17 – “Proof, Vol 1: Goatsucker” by Mike

Mike — Thu, 01 Oct 2009 05:19:17 +0000

Who’s proof-reading these things?? yeah I made a punny! but seriously, I can’t be trusted with my command of the english language… I found two errors that I had made in the original version… oops… nothing but professional work here at WCR!

Comment on WCR Episode #12 – “Rex Mundi – Book One” by Dan

Dan — Tue, 15 Sep 2009 03:17:25 +0000

I just finished the second book. it just keeps getting better. Oh, and you get to see the Duke of Lorraine bust out the matchless cigar lighting technique!

Comment on WCR Episode #14 – “Locke and Key – Welcome to Lovecraft” by Dan

Dan — Mon, 14 Sep 2009 22:59:34 +0000

Wonderful intro guys. and outro? heh he he. “Tidy up!”
About the spoiler warning… You guys could do a spoiler free review of one book for a minute, and then the the full blown discussion about a different book all together for the rest! two for one!

I really enjoyed reading this book a second time, and it was just as gripping as the first read. The story and writing really shines.

I was talking to Mark about this the other day and said I hadn’t liked it, or at least had some issue with a few things. I thought the violence was a bit much, that it seemed to be looking for emotional impact from gore, which is too easy and doesn’t age well. But what I am realizing now is that all the arguments that I keep coming up with in my head as to why this is an imperfect book don’t stand up very well. Looking back over the story I keep picking up on things that are just brilliant. It is so well executed.

Chapter III I just keep coming back to. The starting sequence that shows Kinsey’s clothes changing as she deals with starting at a new school is so perfect. The image of Ty standing over Sam with a brick in his hand communicates his mental state so well (it is a repeat of the earlier scene on page 26 and mirrors the earlier scene where he sees himself bloodied with a gun in his reflection in the pond). And then later when Bode shows Kinsey the magic death door, there is an amazing spread of his dead body and her reaction that captures the weirdness of the situation and their sibling relationship so well.

Man, this book really grows on you! I guess I wish it was less glossy and bloody so the brilliant story could stand for itself.

After listening to your guys’ conversation I think it is actually the coloring that I dislike. The art is brilliant, with so many levels and details that reward closer examination… but the coloring is too literal, it doesn’t add any mood or impact, and doesn’t really even add a lot of lighting changes. It might actually just be a result of the art style that doesn’t let anything disappear into shadows or dim backgrounds, everything is defined.

Lots of mysteries left in my mind…
- why mom walks with a cane
- what all of Sam’s tattoos mean (he makes a new one on his forearm, he has a barred window on his chest that looks like the well house)
- did Sam kill more people to get out of his cell to the kitchens?
- Did you notice that Sam’s dad (pg 86) has a t-shirt from the truck stop “Big Dog” where Sam kills the trucker
- I guess Sam is a ghost for good. The police got his body, so if he ever goes back through the door (opened by the right key ) he’ll wake up in a broken buried body

Comment on WCR Episode #15 – “The League of Extraordinary Gentlemen Vol 2″ by yearofmark

yearofmark — Thu, 10 Sep 2009 23:12:50 +0000

For some reason I forgot to add the show to the feed. Should work now!

Comment on WCR Episode #2 – “The Fountain” by dcbaker

dcbaker — Tue, 01 Sep 2009 22:26:54 +0000

The idea of the two tree, knowledge and life, is quite interesting, I don’t think I’ve heard of that before. Need to read the Bible?

The modern third was like a foundation that helped everything else make sense, to provide a sort of inter-time context or something. It was the least appealing in the graphic novel though, since the imagery isn’t all that striking. I love how in the past when the conquistador finally reaches the tree of life and drinks the sap he erupts in life and becomes new vegetation, just like the First Father.

I looked up the guys that did the effects for the movie, it was done with almost no CGI and used macrophotography instead. There a beautiful video of some of that art here: http://www.chrisparksart.com/movies2/showreel_1200K.htm.

Comment on QUEEN & COUNTRY: THE DEFINITIVE EDITION VOL. 1 by Martin

Martin — Sat, 22 Aug 2009 08:10:37 +0000

iFanboy have a cool podcast on this volume, check it out. There’s hardly any real spoilers, so no worries.

http://www.ifanboy.com/content/audio/Booksplode__2_-_Queen_and_Country_Definitive_Edition_Vol__1

Comment on WCR Episode #12 – “Rex Mundi – Book One” by Martin

Martin — Fri, 21 Aug 2009 21:57:29 +0000

Hmmm. I’ve lost track of what’s supposed to be next, just goin’ with da flo. But i just checked the order and it goes Angie, Martin, Mike, and then Mark…so it looks like Mike’s theory is correct. Just let me know what u guys figure out for this this coming week. Talking about the “M” beads……thats also the initials of each of our names…oooooohhhhhhh….M(cubed)…coincidence? I think not!

Comment on WCR Episode #12 – “Rex Mundi – Book One” by Mike

Mike — Fri, 21 Aug 2009 16:33:56 +0000

Maybe it’s because I’m just that good, but I did notice that lighting of said cigartette sans lighter! What can I say, I’m observant!
P.S. – who the hell is running this gong show that can’t even keep track of each weeks podcast! I mean I know this was mark’s pet project to start, but do we have to skip Fear Agent next week so he can gush about Locke and Key? I’m pretty sure the episode said Fear Agent vol. 3 was next but I could be wrong

Comment on WCR Episode #12 – “Rex Mundi – Book One” by yearofmark

yearofmark — Fri, 21 Aug 2009 13:52:12 +0000

More like Morricant is about to strangle someone, such a B.A.

Comment on WCR Episode #12 – “Rex Mundi – Book One” by Martin

Martin — Thu, 20 Aug 2009 21:44:50 +0000

I’d forgotten all about that….good call. I noticed that when i first saw the book before i bought it and hadn’t really thought about it since…or noticed it since. I’m not sure if it’s any significance, but now that you’ve got me looking at the cover, do you the way Morricant is holding those beads is in the shape of an M?….Mundi, Merovingian Dynasty, Monarchy, (Father) Marin, …..i may be stretching it a bit though. For sure its a cool cover.

Comment on WCR Episode #12 – “Rex Mundi – Book One” by yearofmark

yearofmark — Thu, 20 Aug 2009 19:55:34 +0000

Also, just in case you missed it, the character in the foreground is lighting his cigarette and he has no match. Awesome!

Comment on WCR Episode #12 – “Rex Mundi – Book One” by Martin

Martin — Wed, 19 Aug 2009 21:38:59 +0000

X-Men Unlimited (vol. 2) #7 (with pencils by Lewis Larosa and inks by Tom Palmer, Marvel Comics, April 2005)…sorry, my mistake.

Comment on WCR Episode #12 – “Rex Mundi – Book One” by yearofmark

yearofmark — Wed, 19 Aug 2009 17:12:19 +0000

Looks good. However, I don’t think Arvid wrote Astonishing X-men. Un-less I am wrong.

Comment on WCR Episode #11 – “The Secret History of The Authority – Hawksmoor” by yearofmark

yearofmark — Thu, 13 Aug 2009 17:35:48 +0000

I just finished listening to the show and let me say, great job! I wanted to make some points about what was discussed.
-Did you guys find it weird that the city gods were in the form of human animals? I wonder if there is some form of fusion between the the two as nature has been absorbed by the cities in the future.
-Also perhaps the God that came back to do battle with Hawksmoor was simply an avatar the the god. I say this because of the flash of the future the picture of these guys showed them to be monstrously big.
-I really like the way they dealt with the timeline in which they said that they could not send more people back in time as doing so injures “time” and something described as a blood clot would stop them from being able to attack Hawksmoor again. Something not all time traveling stories describe.
-Final point, another book that we all enjoyed! What does that make it, 2?

Also if you are looking for more Authority read The Secret History of The Authority: Jenny Sparks

Mark

Comment on Astro City “Confession” by Martin

Martin — Thu, 13 Aug 2009 04:43:42 +0000

Confession really turned it up a notch. Now that you’re all settled in after the anthology that was the first volume, this is where we get into the gritty details of Astro City’s heroes. This is an awesome story from beginning to end, it kept me entrhralled from cover to cover (although 90% of TP’s do that for me), but this has to be one of top arcs I’ve read from anything. It lays down some major plot foundations for Marvel’s version of superhero registration, just like Mark said, which is really interesting. I also saw parallels with Alter Boy taking on the Confessor mantle to Dick Grayson taking on the Batman mantle. Obviously most can see the similarities to Batman and Robin, but overall Busiek seems to be dreaming up these ideas long before the mainstream publishers (DC and Marvel)run their versions. That, I would say, makes Kurt Busiek a visionary in the comic medium. I can’t help but chuckle at some of the heroes we’ve been introduced to, by just looking at some of them you’re first impression may be negative. But, when they’re fleshed out, they are all pretty cool characters. A perfect example in this volume would be the cameo’s of The All-American and his sidekick Slugger, The Junior Dynamo. What’s up with them? Air Ace?? And, who is The Lamplighter??? C’mon…you serious Mr. Busiek? Yeah…he is…and it’s awesome. All these guys, I’m sure, we’ll find out more about in The Dark Age. You get used to seeing some cheesy heroes, but you also learn to hold back with initial criticism, at least until you learn more about them, and up to this point, you get the impression you probably will. For sure, no complaints yet. Confession is a must read.

Comment on Astro City “Confession” by Mike

Mike — Thu, 13 Aug 2009 04:11:31 +0000

This article actually makes me want to read some more of Astro City!
give it a try I guess and see what happens!

Comment on WCR Episode #11 – “The Secret History of The Authority – Hawksmoor” by Martin

Martin — Thu, 13 Aug 2009 02:08:55 +0000

Yeah. This was a fun book to read. It has re-opened the Wildstorm door for me I can’t wait to find out what Hawksmoor and other Authority related heroes are up to. This was my official introduction to Fiona Staples art, and it’s pretty darn cool. Mike Costa wrote a great story for his first notable piece of work, i’ll be looking out to see what other things he’s up to. Hawksmoor is an amazingly cool character, there’s nothing I don’t like about him. His background is crazy cool, with being abused and experimented on as a child by humans from the 70th century. After doing a little research, I found out a little more on how the God’s played into the story and came away more forgiving than I was during the podcast, after all, I had just finished reading it an hour before we started…hehe. I did find out about this incident that I really want to check out, Hawksmoor wearing the city of Tokyo as a suit of armor….like wow…pretty intriguing. I would definatly say this book is accessible, good jumping on point.

Comment on PIXU: the MARK of EVIL by Martin

Martin — Sun, 09 Aug 2009 22:46:26 +0000

Yeah…I have to agree with you on a lot of points there, but I ended up interpreting a lot of the confusion as part of the style and seemed to get a little more out of it as far as bending my warped imagination a little…but that’s just me. I also recognize this book is probably not for everyone, you’ll either like it or won’t and it’ll get it’s fair share of flak, i’m sure. As far as character development, you’re right…there wasn’t much, but isn’t that the style of the story? I give the creators props for attempting to create something without such an important ingredient like character development or character background. You know these people are screwed from the get-go, so why give the reader connection to them at all. Now, that’s different. They’re just the supporting cast. It’s the house/spirit that has the lead role and there’s a lot open for interpretation for it. I don’t think you’re supposed to fully understand what the entity is. The book probably turned out as good as it could be… so I guess you really have to have a warped imagination to come away with something positive, but for me it was the creative attempt at something different. It’s not perfect, but it’s unique in what it tries to do. That being said, I still agree with most of what you had to say.

Comment on PIXU: the MARK of EVIL by yearofmark

yearofmark — Sun, 09 Aug 2009 18:06:28 +0000

This story was hard to follow from the beginning. You can actually here us talk about this book and others with the last podcast (episode 10). Not much love went out to this book. I didn’t know what was going on at all during this story, I was confused and it wasn’t a pleasant “I want to figure this out” sort of feeling it was a “When is this ending” sort of feeling. I almost think they were trying to emulate movies with the mood settings, but to me they didn’t work. There was no character development which is kinda important if I want to have any connection to them. The story telling left a whole lot up to the art to do the telling and I was confused about a lot of it. Point of fact, at some points there is all the squiggly lines in the back ground and foreground, I was confused if this was to set mood or if it was the house or if it was a ghost or what ever. Sometimes the characters see it sometimes they don’t, its just confusing. Anyways check out the show to hear more.

Comment on ASTOUNDING SPACE THRILLS – ARGOSY SMITH AND THE CODEX RECKONING by yearofmark

yearofmark — Fri, 07 Aug 2009 14:36:10 +0000

I think if your into Sci-Fi you should check out Mike Baron and Steve Rude’s “Nexus”, I believe from Dark Horse. It is pretty Amazing and throwbackish much like you describe here. I will definitely check this book out in the future as my current stack of books becomes less tall.

Comment on ORBITER by Warren Ellis by yearofmark

yearofmark — Mon, 03 Aug 2009 20:28:05 +0000

The first time I read this book I didn’t get past the first 5 pages, something about it just bugged me. Perhaps I was just more interested in superheroes and not enough in what Warren Ellis was saying here. Martin lent me his copy and based on his recommendation I gave it a shot again, and man did I like it. This story could be a movie with very little changes. The only complaint I have is that the art sometimes gave me problems, perhaps it was a combination of artist/colorist that just didn’t mesh with me. Out side of that this book is awesome. Ellis clearly has a passion for the subject matter as well as physics. The Rocket Scientist reminds me so much of a friend of mine. This book is good.

Comment on Worst Cover Art Ever!!!! by Martin

Martin — Fri, 31 Jul 2009 22:25:29 +0000

You know, the worst thing about it is Captain Britain…he just doesn’t look right. The rest of it’s ok, but yeah…eek…whatsup Cap?

Comment on WCR Episode #9 – “Scalped” by Martin

Martin — Sun, 26 Jul 2009 21:37:22 +0000

Despite my disturbances with this book, i’m going to see where it goes by reading the next book. There was enough in it to make me curious about how all this plays out. Now that i know what to expect, i’ll come emotionally prepared next time. Besides…good or bad…I know too much from doing the review to just be able to drop it.

Comment on WCR Episode #7 – “Kurt Busiek’s Astro-City Vol:1 – Life in the Big City” by Martin

Martin — Fri, 24 Jul 2009 19:50:28 +0000

Just finished “The Tarnished Angel”…..excellent. About to start “Local Heroes”. Man, am I ever pro-Astro City. What a world, what a world.

Comment on On the Subject of Horror: Two Houses and an Anthology by Martin

Martin — Fri, 24 Jul 2009 19:26:47 +0000

I never thought i’d be such a fan of horror, I now acknowledge that I am. I’m becoming a big fan. There’s a lot out there for me to discover. Today, I picked up “Locke & Key: Welcome to Lovecraft” by Joe Hill and Gabriel Rodriguez (IDW) and “Lovecraft” by Hans Rodionoff (adapted by Keith Giffen) and illustrated by Enrique Breccia (Vertigo). IDW is another publisher, i’ve discovered, that has some interesting books in their lineup. I came so close to picking up that beautiful Hellboy oversized hardcover, but not yet. Soon tho. Looking back, I’ve come to this point of my new found horror craze, all from reading “The Walking Dead” and “30 Days of Night”, quite influential graphic novels in my journey into horror. I’ll be sure to let you all know about my new investments.

Martin

Comment on WCR Episode #9 – “Scalped” by yearofmark

yearofmark — Wed, 22 Jul 2009 16:17:08 +0000

Here are some links if you interested in doing some research into the mind of Jason Aaron and “Scalped”. I used these sites to help me put together the intro I used in the Podcast. Thanks for listening.

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Scalped
http://www.scalped.info/
http://jasoneaaron.blogspot.com/
http://www.comicsbulletin.com/features/118066951115710.htm
http://www.comicbookresources.com/?page=article&id=7803

Comment on On the Subject of Horror: Two Houses and an Anthology by yearofmark

yearofmark — Mon, 20 Jul 2009 19:25:25 +0000

What I mean by license is when an external subject manor becomes a comic book, like Friday the thirteenth and A Nightmare in Elm Street. The main difference is that Mavel and DC license out there comicbook characters to other medium, this makes them loads of money. But when comic book companies buy movie licenses to make co ic books with generally the rule is is that they suck, but not allways. Conan, for exAmple has a rich comic book history and therefore trancends my view of license properties. Although, I think my views are currently changing. However I do agree with you about all comics are indeed properties, but there is a big difference between horror books like “House of Mystery” and “Army of Darkness”.

Comment on On the Subject of Horror: Two Houses and an Anthology by Martin

Martin — Mon, 20 Jul 2009 18:55:02 +0000

I don’t get it…lol. All that DC and Marvel = licensed, right? Actually, 90% of everything is somewhat licensed, so that can’t leave too much else to choose from. I couldn’t let a comic that’s licensed stop me from reading it, a good story is a good story. Take Conan, for example….it’s one of the best series i’m reading, i’m pretty sure it’s licensed. What would differentiate Army of Darkness from other titles such as Conan, Swamp Thing, GI Joe, X-Men, Superman, Batman, Iron man, etc etc etc…?

Martin

Comment on On the Subject of Horror: Two Houses and an Anthology by yearofmark

yearofmark — Mon, 20 Jul 2009 16:18:44 +0000

I think that comics can do disturbing really well because they control what you see. What they don’t do well is jumping suspense because they cannot control the timing of how fast you read. I have heard that Manga does creepy really well and I think the next time I do a horror review I will add a manga title in the works. I would have a bit of trouble reading Army of Darkness as I hate licensed comics LOL. But then again I do love GI Joe so hmmmmm.

Comment on Conan vol. 1 : The Frost-Giant’s Daughter and Other Stories by Martin

Martin — Sun, 19 Jul 2009 06:25:33 +0000

Yes, absolutely. It’s one of my favorites of all-time, best Conan yet. I read too the Arvid Nelson is set to bring us Kull….sweeeeeet.

Comment on On the Subject of Horror: Two Houses and an Anthology by Martin

Martin — Sun, 19 Jul 2009 06:20:18 +0000

I read House of Mystery as well, and I also thought it was great. Willingham and Sturges know how to suck you in with good character concepts. I really enjoyed the switch in art throughout the book as well. It’s pretty awesome how the main story’s screen-time is diminished by the many sub-stories, mainly consisting of the tales the characters are telling in the bar, and using different artists to draw them. Really cool. I can’t wait to read the next one.

Tales of Terror I haven’t read yet, but i am curious. II just finished reading Pixu: The Mark of Evil,(by Lolos, Ba, and Moon) which felt a bit foreign in the translation too. It was pretty good tho, mostly visual and not lot’s of complicated dialogue. I’m still not sure how to interpret the demon. The book for sure leaves an impression of disturbing horror…and that’s what’s it’s supposed to do. I’ll have to check out Tales of Terror.

I’ve looked at Batman: Arkham Asylum before, but was always reluctant. Maybe I had some different art tastes when i saw it last, because thats what’s prevented me most from picking it up. Dave McKean i don’t know enough about. I’m pretty sure i’ll change my mind once I see the art again. I will read this book.

……bring on the horror.
(i’ve heard that some of the Army of Darkness stuff is pretty dam cool too, but I must read some Hellboy and BPRD first)

Martin

Comment on Conan vol. 1 : The Frost-Giant’s Daughter and Other Stories by yearofmark

yearofmark — Sun, 19 Jul 2009 01:56:26 +0000

I’m totally with in regards to Conan! I was reading some old Marvel reprints and man do I love him as a character. I am gonna get this new series as well. So many things that are right about this =
Conan + Busiek + Origin = Awesome! by Croms Bones

Comment on WCR Episode #8 – “Green Lantern – Secret Origin” by Martin

Martin — Sat, 18 Jul 2009 03:33:38 +0000

Good podcast by the way, i think i’m sitting too far from the mic tho at times, i’ll keep note of that.

Comment on WCR Episode #1 – “The League of Extraordinary Gentlemen” by Derek Hovinga

Derek Hovinga — Fri, 17 Jul 2009 03:00:48 +0000

Hey Martin!

Good job!!!!!!!

-Derek

Comment on WCR Episode #8 – “Green Lantern – Secret Origin” by yearofmark

yearofmark — Thu, 16 Jul 2009 16:18:49 +0000

Sweet. Just no spoilers, this is supposed to be a haven from that. Also make note that trade following “Secret Origin” is now available, “Rage of the Red Lanterns”. Picking that up in hardcover in the next week or so! Mike, Review that one, lol.

Comment on WCR Episode #8 – “Green Lantern – Secret Origin” by Mike

Mike — Thu, 16 Jul 2009 04:59:36 +0000

OMG… got through about 6 pages of Blackest Night before I had to go to work. I assure you, the review is on it’s way!

Comment on WCR Episode #8 – “Green Lantern – Secret Origin” by Martin

Martin — Wed, 15 Jul 2009 22:00:06 +0000

Yeah…although i’ve been avoiding mainstream, it has got me back going through the the first 15 single issues. NOOOOOOooooooo………………not singles!!!!!! Well, not all singles…I have Re-Birth and No Fear in TP and the rest up to like 17 or something in singles. I’ve only just started re-reading them, but what is it about good ol’ GL that’s just so dam appealing to me? This will probably be the very few mainstreams i’ll keep up with. What can I say, I have been and always will be a big fan of GL. Like I said in the podcast, it’s an old,familiar story being retold. Nothing new. But it’s got me back into the series, and that says something about it.

Martin

Comment on WCR Episode #6 – “Kabuki Vol 1: Circle of Blood” by yearofmark

yearofmark — Sun, 12 Jul 2009 18:16:52 +0000

I wish I finished the series. We have all the books up until Metamorphosis, and I think we will be getting it real soon. COB is way better the second time after absorbing the later books.

Comment on WCR Episode #6 – “Kabuki Vol 1: Circle of Blood” by riley

riley — Sun, 12 Jul 2009 02:12:28 +0000

Interesting in depth review, As a first Dave Mack experience goes I think circle of blood is probably the least accessible Kabuki volume, Mack’s figuring out whats going on and gets better and better as the series goes on, my fave volume is scarab, its sums up whats happened to date in the series but is less poetic and emotive, more traditional, for his more painterly style Metamorphosis it embraces COB’s artistry
but in a more mature art style.

Its a hard book to review cause of how good it gets later,
Cool series to talk about though.

Comment on RX Comics & Hidden Gems by Martin

Martin — Sat, 11 Jul 2009 06:17:12 +0000

Looks like we both have the “horror” twitch Mark. I just picked up a cool hardcover trade called PIXU the Mark of Evil by Gabriel Ba. Also, you’ll probally really enjoy Solomon Kane (…see review). There’s an interesting book coming out in September called Lovecraft Unbound, a compilation of some of his work by various writers. I’m looking forward to getting my hands on some Hellboy, Alan Moore’s Yuggoth Cultures and Other Growths, and anything that has to do with Cthulhu Mythos. I’m sure you’ve got some good suggestions.

Martin

Comment on “G.I. Joe: Cobra” the first four issues by yearofmark

yearofmark — Sat, 11 Jul 2009 03:26:47 +0000

The real funny thing about this is that people love this book, possibly because of the not-for-kids aspect about it(the cobra one). I want to read theses books in trades as it seems we are witnessing a G.I. Joe Renaissance taking place, something that has not happened since the original series. IDW certainly seems to have a grasp of what the modern G.I. Joe fan is looking for. And it is shocking to hear that Mike dislikes the one series out of the four that people are drooling over! No bandwagon jumping for that man I tell you!

Comment on “G.I. Joe: Cobra” the first four issues by Martin

Martin — Fri, 10 Jul 2009 21:49:53 +0000

I hope this isn’t a sign for the movie being an epic failure, it’s looking pretty iffy so far from what I’ve seen from the previews. G.I. Joe:Cobra seems interesting if they were to go into Cobra’s origins a little, but you say they didn’t really, and that’s too bad. Maybe 4 books was “underkill” and Cobra could have been expanded into a longer story dealing with some of the organizations background. This might be GI Joe’s toughest battle yet. Yoooooooooooooooooooo JOE!!!!!!!

Martin.

Comment on WCR Episode #7 – “Kurt Busiek’s Astro-City Vol:1 – Life in the Big City” by yearofmark

yearofmark — Thu, 09 Jul 2009 04:35:41 +0000

I think Mike just doesn’t like anthologies, and good comics. Ya that’s it!

Comment on The Un-Men: Get Your Freak On by Martin

Martin — Wed, 08 Jul 2009 05:18:22 +0000

LOL. Yes it is twisted and creepy and Cranium is definately crazy. I just finished reading vol.2: Children of Paradox and the crazy creepiness is all still there. I had a good chuckle in almost every chapter. I know what you are saying about the jumpiness in the first trade, but I have to say it’s not as noticable in the second volume. One of the best elements of Get Your Freak On was the inclusion of the reality show into the story. I thought that was awesome. Janus and his son are the best characters so far in my opinion. The way they have to live and interact with one another is unimaginable and Jr. kind of reminds me of Chucky. In a way, Janus Jr. is the comic relief. I tell you, what a pair.

Comment on WCR Episode #7 – “Kurt Busiek’s Astro-City Vol:1 – Life in the Big City” by Martin

Martin — Wed, 08 Jul 2009 04:57:50 +0000

I just finished reading Confession and Family Album and Astro City just keeps getting better. It’s turned into one of those series you just don’t want to end. I really think if Mike gave Confession a chance, hey may find it in his heart to feel a little love for the series. Here’s hoping Busiek, who has been ill the past few years with mercury poisoning and has slowed down his writing considerably, recovers and gives us more to read. In fact, i read he is in fact feeling much better these days. Mercury poisoning sounds nasty.

Martin

Comment on The Un-Men: Get Your Freak On by yearofmark

yearofmark — Wed, 08 Jul 2009 03:45:04 +0000

I gotta admit, I’m a sucker for a good mystery.

This book is really creepy, but in the good way. Makes me want to read the next trade. The only complaint I have is that it was a bit jumpy in story from some panels to others, which caused the flow to be a bit jarring. That point aside, it is a great book and I would have loved to have had this as a discussion book just to get more opinions of it. Also, isn’t Cranium the best character design? Like Ever? I think he is one of the most interesting I have read in a long time, he is absolutely crazy!

Comment on Is it the jumping on point, or jumping off? by Martin

Martin — Tue, 07 Jul 2009 22:10:00 +0000

Yeah, a nice big bookshelf full of trades would be a nice thing to look at.

Comment on CAIRO a graphic novel by G. Willow Wilson by Martin

Martin — Sun, 05 Jul 2009 10:38:51 +0000

Total fluke find. It’s an off-sized book and looked out of place between regular tb’s in chapters. I slid the thing out, liked the cover, read the back and noticed the vertigo name. Sold.

Comment on CAIRO a graphic novel by G. Willow Wilson by yearofmark

yearofmark — Sun, 05 Jul 2009 05:19:48 +0000

This sounds like a book a lot of people could and would enjoy reading. Middle-eastern stories are always so fascinating. Is this a new book? I have not heard of it, not that it is saying much. I would be interested on how you came across this title. Also I am looking forward to reading this! Thanks Martin.

Comment on WCR Episode #6 – “Kabuki Vol 1: Circle of Blood” by yearofmark

yearofmark — Thu, 02 Jul 2009 18:06:56 +0000

Scott mcloud is totaly worth Checking out. I still find it facinating that Angie has picked the most violent of the books so far. I would love to move to the second volume for a review show. I feel the show we did for volume one didn’t do the book the justice it deserves.

Comment on WCR Episode #6 – “Kabuki Vol 1: Circle of Blood” by Martin

Martin — Wed, 01 Jul 2009 07:16:37 +0000

Cool…nice touch on the music at the end of the podcast. I’d like to get to this book sometime, more than anything I wanna see what you all mean with the art. It sounds really interesting to me. Mark was talking about Scott McCloud in the podcast too, which was interesting to me because I just was made aware of this guy and his contributions to the medium. A whole new can of worms has just been opened, thanks Mark. It sounds like the book had some important significance as Angie’s doorway to comics. Mike didn’t love it but definately appreciated it….so all in all worth checkin’ out. Sorry i couldn’t get to this one, Astro City will be fun tho.

Comment on Ultimatum by yearofmark

yearofmark — Sun, 28 Jun 2009 19:06:16 +0000

I personally love whats going on with the Ultimate Universe. Kill’em all I say. I didn’t understand the Ultimate Universe as it was so familiar to the Marvel U. To many creators dropped the ball when writing the books. They were just Ultimatizing the Marvel U and rarely had anything original to tell. Looking forward to the reboots!

Comment on Only 10 ????? by Martin

Martin — Fri, 26 Jun 2009 21:43:48 +0000

Okay, you’ve proven there’s some people out there who may need to live with more than some others do. I bet you could give us 50 and still be torn because you were leaving some out…hehehe. j/k. But yeah…of course there’s still brilliant stuff out there outside those top 10’s for anyone. You know, I’m surprised we havent really touched on Neil Gaiman’s stuff yet…he’s like one of the industry’s heavyweights in a way. I’m sure it’s only a matter of time. I’ve got that Books of Magic trade, probally a pick down the road.

Comment on Three Reasons Why Vertigo by Martin

Martin — Fri, 26 Jun 2009 21:31:05 +0000

Your definately on to something there Mark. There’s some amazing stuff to be read for Vertigo. I mean, of course not everything is going to suit everyone, but there’s a lot of quality titles to check out for all tastes. Vertigo has definately influenced the kind of comics i like to read these days, they are…for sure…mature reads, and the nice thing is theres no shortage of books to look into. Vertigo has kinda taught me a who’s who regarding writers and artists and what else the’ve done, i’ve opened a sort of “Pandora’s Box” for myself. But, I love it.

M.C.

Comment on Only 10 ????? by yearofmark

yearofmark — Fri, 26 Jun 2009 21:28:51 +0000

Also if you like Batman- The Long Halloween then you must read Batman – Dark Victory and Catwoman – When in Rome

Comment on Only 10 ????? by yearofmark

yearofmark — Fri, 26 Jun 2009 19:16:43 +0000

Maybe a top 50?

Comment on WCR Episode #4 – “Echo Vol: 1 – Moon Lake” by Martin

Martin — Thu, 25 Jun 2009 08:49:49 +0000

You want more lovee-dovee stuff over sci-fi ??????? Man, I hope they don’t come out with a Bridges Over Madison County TP…..i’ll be busy that session.

Comment on The Un-Men: Get Your Freak On by Martin

Martin — Thu, 25 Jun 2009 08:45:07 +0000

Yeah…that’s Cranium. If you ever need any extra body parts attatched to your body…he’s your man.

Comment on The Un-Men: Get Your Freak On by yearofmark

yearofmark — Thu, 25 Jun 2009 04:13:58 +0000

Is that a giant hand with a head? If it is, i’m totaly on board!

Comment on Only 10 ????? by Martin

Martin — Wed, 24 Jun 2009 20:46:51 +0000

Thats not fair. If I knew u were gonna change the rules i woulda picked The Walking Dead too…..and Fables, Jack of Fables, coz as collected works….they definately rock. As singles TP’s….there awesome…but hard to beat out a lot of other titles.

Comment on Only 10 ????? by yearofmark

yearofmark — Wed, 24 Jun 2009 17:12:25 +0000

But I would prefer a top 25

Comment on Only 10 ????? by yearofmark

yearofmark — Wed, 24 Jun 2009 17:11:20 +0000

Now this is an interesting thought,
1. The Dark Knight Returns
2. Ultimates Vol. 1
3. Watchmen
4. Daredevil : The Devil Inside and Out part one
5. New Frontier – Absolute Edition
6. Batman: Year One
7. Maus I & II
8. From Hell
9. The Complete Bone
10. The Walking Dead – Yes all of them, you can pry them from my cold,..uhm dead hands

Comment on A Short Review on Captain America #600 by Martin

Martin — Wed, 24 Jun 2009 06:29:18 +0000

Seems like the cramped a lot of stories into one issue….was it super-sized? Maybe that makes up for the $4.99 tag.

Comment on A Short Review on Captain America #600 by yearofmark

yearofmark — Mon, 22 Jun 2009 16:22:04 +0000

$4.99 for a single issue? Robbery. I used to never read the supporting material in these types of books. Another reason why I am heading into the exclusivity of trades. I look down upon you people with pathetic sympathy in my shining tower made from ivory hardcovers . Nice Post!

Comment on WCR Episode #3 – “Jack of Fables Vol: 1 The (Nearly) Great Escape” by yearofmark

yearofmark — Mon, 22 Jun 2009 02:54:29 +0000

I don’t think they go into the “why” Revise does what he does, perhaps just a little foreshadowing. This book, as of the first trade is the quintessential “fun” book, and in my eyes not much more. And I’m OK with that, in for the long haul on this.

Comment on WCR Episode #4 – “Echo Vol: 1 – Moon Lake” by yearofmark

yearofmark — Mon, 22 Jun 2009 02:49:33 +0000

I never really though about the way the female characters strength was superficial, but it makes sense in the way you put it. I was kinda bored the whole way until she met up with Dillon (The Park Ranger), perhaps it was because I wasn’t interested in her character until she was balanced with him. Who knows? Now that I think about it, the “relationshipness” of them is why I want to read more, not the sci-fi chase/stuff.

Comment on WCR Episode #3 – “Jack of Fables Vol: 1 The (Nearly) Great Escape” by Ammo

Ammo — Mon, 22 Jun 2009 02:48:55 +0000

You guys should have talked more about Mike’s comment on how this could be read as a commentary on modern pop media, that was very interesting!
The whole concept of this book is pretty cool… if you understand it. I mean, unless I skipped a page or simply don’t have the brains to get it, I don’t see why Revise wants to obliterate those fable characters from the collective memory.
I have to disagree with Martin on the darkness, the edginess or the depth of either Jack or Goldilocks: he’s a giant phallus, she’s a giant bitch. They have issues, but that just makes them normal, not deep or edgy. I mean, Al Pacino in Heat was dark, edgy and deep, so was Jessy Custer in Preacher, and so is Wolverine… In fact, I think Humpty Dumpty is the edgiest of the characters in this book. I saw the whole thing sort of like a joke and pretty much read it like that: a comedy with some darker parts.

Comment on WCR Episode #4 – “Echo Vol: 1 – Moon Lake” by Ammo

Ammo — Mon, 22 Jun 2009 02:38:47 +0000

Hey, I just listened to this show and I agree that this book is rather on the light side. It feels to me like it’s more geared towards a teenage audience simply because the main characters have just enough individuality to make them somewhat interesting but not enough to avoid the trap of stereotyping them: the park ranger with the perfect blend of good looks, bravado, humor and passion, the helpless beautiful woman, the sadistic military researcher, etc.
I find the back and forth between the mundane human relationships and the futuristic sci-fi a little jarring I must say. It’s well-enough done that we don’t really find the melodrama interludes too much of a delay to the continuation of the sci-fi story, so that’s a plus.
I’m a little tired of female roles that superficially look like they’re strong (a woman living on her own in the woods, a photographer who drives a red pick-up!) but in fact are kind of hopeless: she’s unable to let go of her husband, she’s addicted to something, she can’t pay her bills, she doesn’t know how to handle her sister’s condition, she can’t even react when the doctor totally dismisses her (I agree with you guys that this was a silly scene), she has no clue what to do with her metal breasts until a man comes to take charge… Meh.
I’d borrow the next issue from someone just to find out what she does with her powers when she decides to stop being a victim.

Comment on WCR Episode #4 – “Echo Vol: 1 – Moon Lake” by Martin

Martin — Wed, 17 Jun 2009 06:07:51 +0000

Just finished listening….Angie’s sudden departure was funny….:D

Comment on WCR Episode #4 – “Echo Vol: 1 – Moon Lake” by Martin

Martin — Wed, 17 Jun 2009 05:54:29 +0000

Get the facts straight, bubba. Not that I would have noticed.

Comment on WCR Episode #4 – “Echo Vol: 1 – Moon Lake” by yearofmark

yearofmark — Wed, 17 Jun 2009 05:48:38 +0000

Just wanted to mention I said in the show that Homage Studios is where The Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles came from. I made a mistake, they are from Mirage Studios! OOPS!

Comment on WCR Episode #1 – “The League of Extraordinary Gentlemen” by yearofmark

yearofmark — Fri, 12 Jun 2009 17:38:55 +0000

I’m working on it!

Comment on WCR Episode #1 – “The League of Extraordinary Gentlemen” by Martin

Martin — Thu, 11 Jun 2009 23:22:17 +0000

Hey….somebody’s slacking. Where’s the review paragraph?….GEDDERDUN!