So, where have you been?

A story for Rob

2011-07-31T22:59:00.005-04:00

I can hear you now, “So Moe what happened? Granted you never posted with any regularity, but damn dude, it’s been like two years”. Ok, so that’s a little more than a question and a little mean of you.

In short, it went like this. I’d wake up with vomit in my throat. Didn’t think much of it at first must be eating crap before bed. It didn’t happen every night or often. So I just kind of went with it. Then sometime later I started to have crippling chest pains. Mostly at night. I found that taking showers and just standing in the water seemed to help a little. But ultimately I couldn’t find any position that gave me relief. Not laying down, not sitting up, and not laying on the hard floor. I went to my doctor who referred me to a Gastroenterologist. The first thought was that I was suffering from Acid Reflux. We tried pills for a few months. Didn't help. I was scheduled to have an Endoscopy (camera down the throat) and a colonoscopy (camera up the rear), not at the same time, and yes different cameras were used, wise guy. I was miserable. While waiting to take other tests, I made two visits to the emergency room because of the chest pains.

It seems that when a fat black man over 40 hits the emergency room with chest pains everyone thinks “heart attack”. Go figure. It wasn't until after I took an MRI and a sonogram that I was diagnosed with gallstones. I am proof that God has a brutal sense of humor, it was also discovered that I had a hernia. Finally after almost a year and a half my pain had names. I was scheduled to have laparoscopic gallbladder surgery. Time to get sliced.

Actually it was time to get punctured. With laparoscopic surgery they make three holes in your belly, one for a camera, one for cutting and one to pull out the gallbladder. Usually the gallbladder comes out through the belly button. That’s the third hole. Turns out mine had grown five dice size stones. No truth to the rumor that they were six sided.

In short that’s how I've spent almost two years of my life. Sick in pain and in no mood to read comics play games or really talk to people. I think my body is still adjusting to what’s missing and I’m still adjusting to new eating patterns.

I’m feeling better now not as sick. Ordered some comics. Read a few. Want to know what I think about ‘em? Well…

Selling Collections

2011-06-11T21:00:00.003-04:00

Lets get this off to a rousing start! hence the name Raving Rob's Rants. Recently well back in September my wife was downsized from her job. With great restraint I am not going to mention that Low brow cro-mag non place of pablum puking liberal pieces of festering en trail poop. Just a little disgusted as I worked their for years myself only to wake up. Enough of that. This segue ways into my rant. The first thing to go was my weekly fix of four color love (comics). As time went on like most people money got tight and I needed to sell some or all of my collection. now I have been collecting nearly 30 years. The first order of business was to call or contact so called professionals that would buy your collection. Now I know that you would never receive 100 % of guide but when I was told that we give 5- 10 cents for books from the last 20 years I told the first guy not only are you insulting me you are giving the hobby something of concern. Twenty years ago I sold my first collection and was told then that new books are worthless. Well now those books are worth a hell of alot more than when I sold that first collection. I managed to get back most of that collection over the last twenty years. Now to here the same song and dance has made me sick to my stomach over again. Just so alittle back drop goes my collection is approximately 75,000 books no small feat. 1% golden, 40% silver to bronze argh now a new category added modern 59%. So now what do you do? Even the gold and silver you are offered 50% of guide if you are lucky. Now I have goldenage Cap's All Winners EC books. That was enough to entice the buyers. Then well I don't need the new stuff. So your collection gets fucked and you don't get kissed first. So you wind up selling the old stuff now you know if they are willing to pay say 100.00 for a book they have a buyer for 200.00 now why can't you sell it for that? A lot of different reason.

If a book is hard to come by it goes in there collection.

The connections are their for them through long associations.

they will sit on it but the lameness of the stuff I cant sell you have to hear about. That is there problem not mine. When I bought a new book from you and asked for a discount you got a meazly 10%. So at 2.99 a book or 3.99 you got a whopping .29-.39 cent off.

So I will do the math for you at .5 a book you sold your 2.99 book the buyer just made 1.672 %. I am in the wrong job you f**king crooks.

This is getting a little long in the tooth. So without further ado. Keep your collection with the advent of technology kindle's Ipads, and other devices. These new books in 20 years will be worth there weight in gold. These new books that can't sell 100,000 copies a month will be a true antique. All hobbies come in circles. Sell privately and make a firm decision on your starting and ending point of sale.

As a side note I didnt sell my collection. I did sell a couple of books I sold them privately where I sold them at a comfortable feeling in price and happiness to there new owners. As always please free to comment pro or con. This is a topic of discussion I am sure happens in other hobbies dont let it destroy the beauty of it get made get even!

Finally!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

2011-06-11T20:45:00.004-04:00

For all the talk I've finally done it. I am going to blog about the things that interest me and what I would like to spread the word about. First goes kudos to my Friend Anthony to giving me the the encouragement to get off my ass. To my friend where are you (Maurice) to who actually got this thing started 3 years ago. Now that I've got that off my chest. I will post this and move on. So lucky me will get off 2 post in 1 evening. The goal will be to do at least one a week. So here we go. My friend Anthony's blog will be linked on here.
Rob

2009-02-17T21:58:00.000-05:00

Coming Soon--New Post!

Old Comics!

Dead She Said

2008-10-01T21:36:00.008-04:00

Since that first comic I stole yes that is how I got into Comics. It was avengers # 38. I tell everyone the story. Might as well tell you. I always loved mythology so there I was about 10 or 11 years old it was winter I remember because in the ole days everyone had what was known as Parker's.They were these big green heavy jackets that I had the inseam ripped due to wear and tear. Well just like the stories you used to hear to get books back then you would go into a soda shop and on the counter were a box of comics. Or on a spinner rack where these morsel's of eye candy. That was the beginning of the end of a life long association with the 4 color world. Next as I grew a little older my taste changed, I discovered House of Mystery and House of Secrets. Which leads me to this post Bernie Wrightson! The penultimate master of artistry bar none. Well it so happens that he and Steve Niles, the man who some consider the master of modern day, horror in the 4 color world whose work as translated onto the big screen with 30 Days Of Night. Which is currently being shown on the Starz network. Well onto the latest offering Dead She Said. It is quite easy to see why Steve crafts a masterful horror book.This starts off with Detective Joe Coogan our main character in a pool of blood on a bed splash page by the master (Wrightson) as he will now be addressed by. The next couple of pages start to tell you that something is wrong with Coogan simply, put he is dead. The art for this book is exactly what comic book professional always preach about. Telling a story with art that flows form panel to panel don't think in the present day world of comics anybody can pull off this as the master has. There are the usual traits in the story a love interest and mad scientist behind the whole fiscal but don't let this deter you. This book ends as you would like always wanting more. Hopefully this leaves you wanting more go pick up this book you won't be disappointed.

Rob

Rob's Rambling

2008-09-27T15:52:00.004-04:00

As a native New Yorker you have 2 baseball teams to root for the Mets who were on the verge of winning a play- off spot for the second time in 2 years or the cross town rivals the Yankees. As a die hard Met fan I don't know what to make of the final outcome. They didn't make the play-offs again. The bullpen comes in doesn't get the job done and either does the hitting. What makes it worse is how the GM Omar Minya states that every team was looking for quality pitching. Then how do you explain that during the trading deadline the Twins come up with Sabithia and the Dodgers can get Manny? Not only didn't we get anyone as usual during this time. The start of the regular season is approximately 109 days away and will we see any off season trades or acquisitions like last year all we got was Johann who I have to say is worth every penny or is Minya going to sit on his hands again? I know we have one of the highest pay rolls in baseball but what do we have to show for it? No championship, no playoffs and no real superstar pitcher other than Santana. Pitching will beat hitting any day look at the end of this season Omar and invest in pitching get rid of dead weight Pedro who can probably pitch but will wear down by the end of the season if injury doesn't occur first. Look at what happened with Andy Petite age and tired arm. Get Maine healthy again,get rid of half the bullpen if you state that you are going to use fresh young arms from the minors. Don't know what else I can say except that i am a glutting for punishment and will stand by my team. Your Thoughts !

Rob's Long Overdue Ramblings

2008-09-23T18:57:00.003-04:00

Not to long ago I stated that collecting comics at this time felt like the 90's all over again, Well I stand by my statement. Lets look at why. The multiple covers on books from Marvel and DC. Which in itself burns my ass. Either buy 10 to 100 copies to obtain a variant from a top artist or a sketch cover. The image boys are now back in trying to drum up business or rape the fans on putting out 1 maybe 2 issues on a book make a killing and leave the fans high and dry. Come on fans can you say Heroes Reborn by Liefeld the last 2 issues took what 6 months to see from issue 4 to 5. Mcfarlane back on Spawn although I give him more credit as he made valiant attempts to getting the book out on time. Lets see what happens now that he is more involved in his creation. Now on to how many new companies have come out in the last few year? Lets see Boom, IDW, Bluewater, Radical which put out some excellent workand others. Virgin books that signed a contract with Scifi channel to put out books. Heard recently that the Manhattan office was shut down. Is this the beginning of the end for them. Reminds me of Valiant or Crossgen good looking books contacts to have properties made into movies. Eventually bit the bullet. Why you ask cannot answer I am not familiar with there business policies. So want do you do as a fan. Buy what makes you happy and stay within a budget or use one of the online services. I haven't written in awhile I really enjoy the opportunity to have a voice on something like most people. Would like to see some feedback positive or negative from you reading this. Please post a reply or drop us an email. Will get back to those that wish to hear from us Rob Or Moe.

Happy hunting,

Rob

2008-07-27T20:54:00.003-04:00

During our visit to Wizard World Chicago this year I had the extreme pleasure of talking to Freddie Williams II and his wife Kiki while they were stationed in Artist Alley. It always amazes me that people this busy and in such high demand are willing to take the time to not only sign every book you put in front of them, but actually talk to you for as long as you want. Great people.

Here are sketches that Freddie has done for me. The first was Robin (2007 NY Comic Con) next was Nightwing and Batman (2008 Wizard World Chicago). I've also picked up both of his Sketchbooks. I'm still looking for just the right frame to house my "Batman Family". If you would like to contact Freddie he can be found at http://www.freddieart.com/ , http://www.myspace.com/freddieart , or http://www.comicspace.com/freddieart/.
Thanks Freddie.

Moe's photo tour of Wizard World Chicago 2008

2008-07-05T00:19:00.004-04:00

The latest stop on the Comic Geek Tour was Wizard World Chicago. We were able to arrive on Thursday and geekout until Sunday. Below is a small photo essay of our weekend.

2008 New York Comic Con

2008-04-24T23:05:00.009-04:00

During the weekend of April 18-20, 2008, Comic, Sci Fi and Anime Geeks from lands far and wide proved that we could all get along, for at least in the short term. That weekend marked the third installment of the NY Comic Con and by my unofficial account, it marked the largest gathering to date.

OK, so I’m not privy to the actual number of people that marched through the halls, and I was only there for two of the three days (the third day was spent enduring the start of a family vacation that should have been easier and taken less time). While I found Friday very productive (great picture opportunities and slower paced (extra time to go through the dollar boxes), Saturday was somewhat of a return to the crowds that have given the NY Con its famous/infamous notoriety.

Let’s talk fun stuff. I was one of the many fan boys stalking everything in costume. Most were cute girls (I know, imagine that) some were guys that just looked awful.

{Check out the top box under "Our Adventures in Geekdom" to see a new slide show running my con pictures. Also, check out the photos taken by Areacode212 over on flickr. (www.flickr.com/areacode212) or my prior con photos (http://www.flickr.com/photos/comic_con/)
Good stuff.}

I heard one of the organizers for the con on the Comic Geek Speak podcast say that there were 260 panels scheduled for the three day event. And further say that the show floor was 60% larger than the previous year. For my part I went to a grand total of three panels and have the blisters on my feet to concede the larger show floor. (The first manufacture to brand comfortable convention shoes will own the world.)

My only panel on Friday night was headlined by some new comic writer, something Jameson, didn’t really learn much there. Nice looking comic but after you read one issue you need recovery time before reading the next. On Saturday I attended the Battle Star Galactica panel. Frakking good time. I won’t go into who spoke or what was mentioned, but I will say that if you think Tory is hot on your little screen, you gotta see her in person. So say we all.

My third panel was by far the most enjoyable. It was an hour with Orson Scott Card . Fantastic. I must confess that although I had heard of Mr. Card, until recently I had never read anything he had written. At the urging of a co worker I read “Enders Game” about a month ago. Without hesitation one of the best stories, best crafted novel I have ever read. The concepts explored in EG are truly profound and make you actually think about the narrative and the characters living this story. How may times have you read a novel and just either hated the ending or saw it coming 15-20 pages before the author? I never saw this ending coming. Fantastic. I’m on the second book now, Speaker for the Dead.

Artist alley seems to remain full at all times and I hope those folks were able to make enough money to justify this trip and many more in the future. In the same vain Podcast Arena seemed to be well represented. I did miss the folks from Raging Bullets. I really wanted to ask them why? Why in the name of all that is geeky, do you guys put out a three plus hour podcast? You’re killing me! Listen, I learn a ton of stuff about the DCU that I never knew and they discuss the heck out of comics I just can’t buy. But three to four hours is a shit ton of time. Please, break them up into more manageable lengths.

However, all was not Golden Age in dollar boxes. There was one troubling aspect. Vendors of video games, card games and everything not comic related seemed to grow and had a much larger presence at this con (a good thing). But, I’m wondering if this advancement was to the detriment of the vendors actually selling comics (a bad thing). It seemed to me that that several dealers from whom I had purchased comic at prior cons (most notably NY and Wizard World Philly) were not in attendance. Was this because they chose not to buy a both? Did they wait until all available spots were already taken? Were the cost too high? Since the vendors I’m thinking of are veterans of the con scene and all have brick and mortar stores, I would tend not to be believe that they did not want to sell their wares in NY or that they were negligent in their business and waited until it was to late to apply for space. I would also like to think that the powers that be would not price out the small guy in such an important Comic Con, but I do have to wonder.

Overall, I believe this was a great con and with a few tweaks here and there, the NY Comic Con can grow to challenge the mightiest of all Comic Cons, San Diego.

Jekyll

2008-02-09T21:27:00.000-05:00

AS a fan of comic books. It seems we fans have a passion for certain gnere shows as well. This week wanted to switch gears a little and talk about a show that i just finished watching. That show is from the BBC. It stars James Nesbit as Dr Jekyll and Mr Hyde. The show goes by the monicker Jekyll. This show has more plot twist than swiss cheese has holes. Every episode drops a bomb on you as it progresses to the finale. The show is 6 episodes in length. Essentially it is the story of a modern day Jekyll and how a corperation is trying to capture Jekyll to use in experiments to save the world of all its ills. Cancer being the one most mentioned in the series. Along the way you find out that this is the Dr Jekyll and Mr Hyde that has survived since the late 1800's how do you ask? have to wait untill the final episode like I did no spoiler here. Hyde has incredible powers, a ladies man like no other and the strength of more than 2 people at the least. He has a physiologist that is helping him try and find the answers to who and what he is at first. He has a wife and his normal side he goes by the name tom Chapman. Has two children both boys. A mother who pops up unexpectedly towards the end of the 3rd episode.

Something To Chew Over

2008-02-02T10:22:00.000-05:00

Every once so often it happens! A book that signifies why you collect comics. This harkens back to the days of where are they now and similarites arise to past deeds. This book written by Simon Reed (couldn't find much on him) Art handled by Mike Ploog and painted by Simon Bisley. Both have a long standing carrer in the comic world. The story is very reminesent of the early Ec comic books IE Creepy. The story starts off a scientest mixing chemical in a vate with a clock ticking in the background . This is to show how time has such meaning. The lighting of the painting is exquiste as it focus on the main character Reminds me of an old Universal monster movie setting. The sequence of events leads up to the man servant or butler tricking his werewolf brother to extract some of his blood. Dont want to spoil this part pick up the damm book! As the story progresses. The scientest (Eric)whose brother has been bitten by a werewolf (Andrew) is working to find a crue for the opium addiction that has inflicted some the Duke's Lords. Of course he uses that money to help crue his brother to no avail. There is a link attached to show the special covers as well as the 2nd and 3rd issue. Issue two is due in Febuary. As with all independents my fear is that this story will not make it through. It is a mini- series with 3 issues. My retailer ordered only 1 copy no need to say who got that one. http://www.comicartfans.com/GalleryDetail.asp?GCat=4327

Seeing Red

2008-01-18T20:05:00.000-05:00

The new Hulk spins out of World War Hulk. We saw the Hulk imprisoned and DE-powered after a knock down drag out brawl with the Sentry. So who is the is? As the reader is led to believe that it is Rick Jones how do you ask. it is unclear at this time. The story starts out with Doc Samson and She-Hulk tracking down what they believe is the Hulk having destroyed a town they reenact what went down. Now this takes place in Russia Ironman is present with Shield in tow. The winter guard becomes involved as they believe the fight that leveled the town and caused the death of the Abomination who was killed by all means a gun that the Hulk fired so hence Shields involvement. I was pleasantly surprised by the story told by Jeph Loeb. It has enough sub plots that weren't bogged down. i know a first issue is usually a set up with not enough going on to have an opinion one way or another. So with the appearance of Shield, Ironman, She-hulk, Doc Samson and the villain The Winter Guard or are they really? Now on to the art Ed Mcguinness cut down the on the fusion of anime and a cartoon style that I remember him for. So needless to say it was well down for him. The style was clean without a lot of background clutter. The Ironman representation had a nice fluid look almost organic. She-Hulk was attractive for a female character without making her look like a bad girl style. The story moved along from panel to panel without having to read it if chose not too. I say give this book a shot. i don't think too many people where prepared to see this new Hulk coming. With all the information available I don't recall hearing that this was a new Hulk.

whysoserious

2007-12-18T21:40:00.000-05:00

The Dark Knight

If you liked the posters, you'll love the trailer

http://atasteforthetheatrical.com/deathtrap/default.htm

Rob's Rambling

2007-11-13T21:26:00.000-05:00

Holy Batman, I have now jumped ship. As a professed Marvel junkie it should come as no surprise to the legions of comic fans that Dc is showing the esteemed competition how to get the most aesthetically pleasing art and craftsman of story telling The Return of the Demon. Ras Al Ghul who outside of the Joker is the penultimate Bat- villain. The story does begin in this years Robin annual. A gratuitous 1 page appearance and verbiage isn't necessary to have as Batman 670 is the prelude and gets you up to speed. However you will need to purchase the Bat family of books to read it all It does leave you hanging. Spoilers ahead as i will go in depth about the story. About 2 years ago a mini- series came out The Death and The Maiden which saw Ras bite the big one. Death is never permanent in comics so get over it. Fast forward as Talia has hired Silken Spider, Tiger Moth and Dragon lady to occupy Batman as A artifact is trying to be reacquired. It is flatly stated by Sliken Spider that the Demons Head is back and look out world. At the same time there is a splinter faction of the Assassin's being led by Sensei. It is now being established that Ras wants or needs Damian's body as his is deteriorated from crawling around the weeding fleshless ones brilliant. As any mother would do for her son she intervenes in saving Damain who runs to his father Batman.
Now Robin 168 comes into the fold. It show the brilliance of Damain who breaks into the batcave and states how hard it is and commends his father. Robin runs into Damain and the shit hits the fan. The dialogue that spews out of Damain and Tim you can actually feel. As Damain says " you think Batman will leave all this to a hanger-on like you, instead of his own flesh and blood". As it hits Tim with an original Hudson River school painting. The anger and distaste is captured most convincingly. As the end approaches Ras wants Damains body unharmed and anyone in the neigherbood taking care of as Tim and Damain are duking it out to be Continued. The art is handled beautifully by Tony Daniel in his debut on Batman what more of astoryand characther can an artist ask for. Freddie Williams III does a decent job on Robin with the writing by Peter milligan on Robin and Grant morrison on Batman.

Start Saving Your Coins

2007-10-30T22:28:00.000-04:00

NYCC ANNOUNCES FIRST GUESTS FOR 2008 SHOW

Press Release

New York Comic Con (NYCC) has announced its first guests for the 2008 convention which will be held in New York City at the Jacob K. Javits Center, April 18 – 20, 2008. Mike Mignola and Alex Ross will be Guests of Honor and will be joined by several Featured Guests including Neal Adams, Kyle Baker, Amanda Conner, Dean Haspiel, Robert Napton, Jimmy Palmiotti, and Paola Rivera. Many more guests and activities will be announced in the near future as con officials prepare for another major growth spurt for NYCC in 2008.

“Delivering titans of the comic world to our fans is a major part of what New York Comic Con is all about,” notes Lance Fensterman, newly appointed Show Manager for NYCC. “Having direct access to talent of this caliber is what makes our convention such a great experience and we’re looking forward to an all-star list in '08. These guests certainly represent an impressive first step in that direction.”

The two Guests of Honor:

Mike Mignola is part of the team of creators who formed the Legend imprint at Dark Horse Comics where he created Hellboy. The first Hellboy story line was co-written by John Byrne, but Mignola has continued writing the book himself and, as of this writing, there are six Hellboy graphic novels (with more on the way), several spin off titles, two anthologies of prose stories, several novels, two animated films and a live action film starring Ron Perlman. Hellboy has earned numerous comic industry awards and is published in many countries. In 2001, he also created the award-winning comic book The Amazing Screw On Head (recently adapted into animation) and in 2006 he co-wrote with Christopher Golden the novel Baltimore: or the Steadfast Tin Soldier and the Vampire, to be published by Bantam Books in the fall of 2007.

Alex Ross is one of the world’s most pre-eminent and well-respected comic book artists. His big break came in 1993 with Marvels, a graphic novel that took a realistic look at Marvel superheroes by presenting them from the point of view of an ordinary man. Ross followed up Marvels with Kingdom Come, Uncle Sam, and the 60th anniversaries of Superman, Batman, Captain Marvel and Wonder Woman. Ross has also applied his artistic skills to outside projects with comic book roots, including a limited-edition promotional poster for the 2002 Academy Awards, as well as covers for TV Guide. He is currently working on the covers for several series, including Avengers/Invaders and is also the architect behind the new Captain America costume.

The Featured Guests at NYCC so far include:

Neal Adams, a renowned artist who has helped create some of the definitive modern imagery of the DC Comics characters Batman, Green Arrow, and others; Kyle Baker, an award-winning publisher and accomplished graphic novelist; Amanda Conner, a well respected comic book artist and commercial illustrator perhaps best known for Harris Comics’ Vampirella; Dean Haspiel, a comic artist and creator of DOGMA, recognized for his collaborations with writer Harvey Pekar on his American Splendor series as well as the recent graphic novel, The Quitter; Robert Napton, a comic book writer and graphic novelist whose recent graphic novels include Myth Warriors and Tokyo Knights for Top Cow Productions; Paolo Rivera, a painter for Marvel Comics since 2002 who is currently working on Mythos, a series of one-shots featuring the origins of Marvel’s major characters; and Jimmy Palmiotti, a well-known writer of various comics, games and films, currently working on DC Comics’ Countdown series.

For the full press release, please visit http://forum.newsarama.com/showthread.php?t=134302

Justice League: The Nail

2007-10-21T00:14:00.001-04:00

Writer and Penciller- Alan Davis
Inker- Mark Famer

A 1998 Elseworlds tale from DC

The theme of the story is set by its first paragraph:

For want of a nail the shoe was lost,
for want of a shoe the horse was lost,
for want of a horse the knight was lost,
for want of a knight the battle was lost.
So it was a kingdom was lost - all for want of a nail.

The "What If" title from Marvel Comics has a very simple premise. Take a point in Marvel history, change it in some elemental way, and see how it effects change in the Marvel status quo. DC's Elseworlds stories take a different path. They often tell unique and separate stories from the regular DC universe. Allowing creators to branch out in new directions with old characters and situations. This three issue prestige format series is among the best this title has to offer.

While the story's main venue is Metropolis, it reaches far beyond earth and even beyond our own galaxy. The story is one that feeds off of mistrust and what would seem to be a fundamental human flaw, a distrust of things we don't understand. As is often the case, this distrust quickly morphs toward hatred and fear. Parallels in the story can be drawn with race relation issues that have plagued our country for far too long. Once again we are reminded how easily a populace of people can be misled if the right fear is fed.

Through out the three issues we see a steady change in the relationship with the heroes and those the heroes protect. Quickly and seemingly with ease the protected become the fearful, the non-trusting. Know foes are shown to be something less than before while friends and allies are challenged, their true nature shown. While in the end the heroes show why they have earned the title.

Rob's Ramblings

2007-10-06T00:05:00.000-04:00

Now for something different. As a kid growing up there are certain things that stay with you and make you feel sensations that bring that warm fuzzy feeling. This is one for me. i will never forget going to see this in the movie as a kid. I have always felt that this is my favorite Disney cartoon. I just recently picked up 4 out of seven issues in this collection. This is a scan of issue one. The artist and writer is uncredited. What a shame. It isn't a retelling of the movie. This story starts with Robin teaching the rabbit how to shoot his bow and arrow. It lands in a forest that they believe to be haunted. The sheriff has now been in touch with the Duke form the next town over.
The duke of darkmor isn't familiar with the legend of wild forest so his men aren't afraid. until they case Robin and Lil John into this forest where they come across a dragon. This scares the Dukes men and the Duke becomes personally involved. To find out it is the work of his old wizard who he thinks discovered how to turn certain chemicals into gold. Robin and Lil John use all the wizards tools to scare off the duke and his men along with the sheriff of nottingtonham. This book is just pure fun to read and look at. Some of these old Dells with the Whitman i believe are the reprints. Anyone know for sure? If you need a break from Superhero lore and other books this is the one for you. Enjoy!
Rob

Robs Rambling Again

2007-09-15T21:51:00.000-04:00

Moe and I got to talking this past week, as we were reflecting on what has come out the last couple of weeks. Do to the fact that I was in Virgina visiting my family, I didn't have the opportunity to pick up the new books. Needless to say i have been playing catchup. I said to Moe I think I am overly critical of everything that has come out. Why? Maybe I've read so much, it is true that at one time or another the stories seem to have that been there done it sense. So with renewed vigor and a new prospective I've decided to do the Yin-Yang, Night-day. The top of the stack is used by a good pod cast crew that I listen to. I decided on one book that I like, one I did not. So let me get this party started right. First and foremost comics to me are a visual medium. I am no expert butI know what i like. So to open Pandora's box.I dislike John Romita jrs art!It looks tired and forced. One lesson in managing is to go with the bad first so at the end will be the good and that is the last thing you will remember. I totally disliked The Last Fantastic Four story! What great expectations I had for it. It had the biggest character out of place story written by the man himself(Stan Lee) The Fantastic Four have come across the Adjudicator. A dispatcher for the race of beings the Cosmic Tribunal. It is decided that the human race must be eradicated. OK not so bad so far, then like an avalanche it crumbles. With the watcher coming to say his farewells UGHHHHHHH! The good Doctor Doom of course decides that he will conquer all. The Sub Mariner feels that the surface is trying to destroy his kingdom for the gazzilionth time yawn . The surfer is called on by Reed to help deal with this crisis. Explained half hazard i might add. Spidey and a hand full of other marvel characters make a gratuitous appearance.
The Inhumans get into the Frey with little or no results. Then there is this exchange of verbiage between Reed and the Thing that just kills me. I quote " but hey stringbean it wuz great while it lasted" " Never could'a wanted a better bunch 'a partners, The Thing. Reed " I never thought it would end end like this but" "aw well go to Alicia you big galoot". So he rides into the sun set to get his rocks off. The Thing I know would have gone down with the ship. The surfer with Galatus' help have saved the day. Enough of that. The latest Action Comics got me going. I've never really paid attention to Eric Powell's art. I have to tell you it had that feeling from the Fleisher era cartoons with a new sort of feel to it. The story starts with Bizarro kidnapping Jonathan Kent taking him to Bizarro world. Superman enlist the aid of this Father (biological)to help him get to Bizarro world. Once there the world is a chaotic mess the signs in the background i really liked. It is also stated that the powers of both individuals wont be the same or new ones can form. I don't know what else to add. Without giving it all away. Go and buy this book you wont be disappointed. Well your thoughts and feedback. The good back, and ugly is always welcomed. To further enhance this column.
Rob

Disturbing, Freaking Disturbing and Oh my God, that did not happen

2007-09-08T00:33:00.000-04:00

Black Adam #1 (Spoilers a plenty)

Peter J. Tomasi: Story and words
Doug Mahnke: Penciller
Christian Alamy and Norm Rapmund: Inker

Let's start with the cover. It depicts a psychotic looking Adam holding the skeleton of his dead wife Isis. Adam's revenge fueled purge through the DC U has made him the most hated powered being around. However, when the story begins Adam is without his powers, and is pushing one of his devoted disciples into beating him to an unrecognizable mess. Disturbing: in that you begin to understand how far Adam is willing to go in order to fulfill his plans. Having the snot beat out of you so that no one will recognize your now infamous face is off the crazy chart. The first stop for Adam and followers is the tomb of Isis. When the group is ambushed our (anti)hero has no qualms shielding himself from attack with the bodies of his followers while he raids the tomb and escapes with the skeleton of Isis. He vows that their devotion and sacrifice will be remembered. We are also shown that a group of the JSA is looking for Adam. Green Lantern gets information that he believes may yield Adam's location. The group of Atom Smasher, Mr. Terrific, Dr Mid-Nite and Wild Cat arrive, they find a body believed to be Adam, hung from a tree in the town square. The locals have been using the body as a pinata. Just whacking the crap out of it and waiting for the candy to fall out. A quick DNA (Mr Terrific) scan concludes that this is not Adam. Just some poor bastard that the village mistook to be Adam. Freaking Disturbing: mob mentality. The mob of villagers, in their blood lust for revenge displayed the same disregard for life as Adam. And in that instance became the very monster they hate and condemned. The story then joins Adam and one follower as they travel through the Himalayas. Oh my God, that did not happen: Seemingly lost in harsh winter conditions, mentally Adam is noting the sacrifice and devotion of Tamir. As he vows (again) never to forget Tamir, we see Adam eating a piece of raw meat. No wait, is that a leg? Maybe an arm. The panels shift to a wide view showing more of Adam and his surroundings. We see the bloody body of Tamir laying in the snow. Both legs missing. Can't help but to wonder if Tamir gave of himself willingly so that Adam could live or if Adam acting as Adam always does, in self interest, killed him? Was Tamir dead before the "feast" began or did he die a slow death in order to keep Adam company as he dined? That would seem to fit the ego.

Best Band Nightwish

2007-08-28T18:32:00.001-04:00

Couldn't resist using this time to promote the best band this side of the states. I haven't picked up books in two weeks so i didn't have anything to write regarding the new ones. So take this opportunity to kick back and watch this piece of art unfold before your eyes.

Marvel Trading Card Game [PC]

2007-08-15T19:27:00.000-04:00

My score: 7/10

Pros: Addictive, fun-filled gameplay, once you get past the steep learning curve.

Cons: Lame single-player story, poor tutorial, clumsy patching

I’ve known no shortage of geek pursuits to (over)indulge in. I’ve read comics all my life; my growing collection of longboxes has only recently met its match--in the form of the cramped realities of New York City apartment living. I played DOOM hours after it was released, and at one point, my academic progress actually came to a grinding halt as a direct result of my addiction to MUDs, years before World of Warcraft spawned a cottage industry of WoW addiction therapists. I spend several nights a year in a West Village bar with Doctor Who fans. Yet, if there was one phenomenon that was too geeky and weird, even for me, it was the rise of the trading card game. Perhaps due to the arcane rules, or the fact that none of my friends ever played them, or because continually buying booster packs in the hope of getting that one rare card seemed like such a blatant scam, I was content to leave TCGs to those kids I would see playing Magic: The Gathering at the bookstore.

Until now, that is. More accurately, until a few months ago, when Moe handed me a demo copy of Konami’s Marvel Trading Card Game Online, a piece of loot he had picked up at this year’s New York Comic Con. Based on the physical Marvel Vs. TCG (DC Comics Vs. cards are also available in physical form), the demo proved to be addictive enough to spur me into preordering the full PC game (it was already available for the Nintendo DS and Sony PSP).

The game consists of a story-based single-player game and a multiplayer mode where you can buy cards online in order to fill your deck. Budget-minded gamers will be glad to hear that it also supports LAN and internet play that uses the cards that you unlock in single-player mode, though this mode doesn’t support ladder rankings; also, there are additional cards available through the online card store that do not appear in the single-player game.

The rules of the Marvel TCG are indeed arcane, and the tutorial does a poor job of explaining the basic aspects of gameplay to novices. It took Moe and me a couple of hours each of playing the demo against the computer to get some idea of what was going on. However, once you get past that learning curve, the game is actually a lot of fun. It’s essentially a turn-based strategy game, where the players place character cards on the table and use their superpowers to chip away at each others health. Each character’s special powers work appropriately within the gameplay mechanics. For example, characters like the Punisher and Yelena Belova both have “KO target character” powers, reflecting their predilection for dealing death to their opponents without mercy, while Invisible Woman provides reinforcement to her teammates with her force shields.

Being able to build many different types of decks gives the game high replay value, as the game experience differs every time, depending on how your cards are dealt, which cards are included in your deck, and the kinds of strategies you employ. The convenience of the computer taking care of the game calculations is also a plus.

Hardcore Marvel comics fans will be pleased at the inclusion of several lesser-known comics teams, in additional to the usual appearances of Spider-Man, the Hulk and Wolverine. X-Statix, the ill-fated team of celebrity mutants, is featured quite prominently in the card selection, as are the Squadron Supreme (the mid-80s Mark Gruenwald version) and the Thunderbolts.

However, the single-player story is largely forgettable, with the barest outline of a plot and none of the characters exhibiting any personalities. The cutscenes consist of panels of static images, with the occasional character shifting within the frame to simulate movement, akin to the Marvel Superheroes cartoon of the late ‘60s. This technique was used with great style in Irrational Games’ Freedom Force, with its special blur and lighting effects, as well as its stellar voice acting and storytelling. But in the Marvel Trading Card Game, it all seems like wasted effort that might have been better spent towards applying this technique the in-game battle sequences between cards.

The graphics during gameplay are quite basic, consisting of the playing field, and the cards themselves, which in many cases feature gorgeous art by an assortment of comics artists, who aren’t normally known for drawing those characters. The music

Konami has recently announced a new game upgrade that fixes some of the bugs and video card issues that users have been experiencing. However, this game’s console roots are evident in the fact that instead of a patch, this upgrade will require downloading an all-new build of the game—over 1 GB in size. Company reps have said that this is due to Konami still being new to PC software development, but this kind of upgrade process in 2007 is clumsy at best.

Despite these issues, the game is well worth buying for its fun gameplay, especially at the bargain price that it’s selling for.

Rob's Ramblings

2007-08-14T20:39:00.000-04:00

Here's a must read book with all the talk and renewed interest in pirates. Thanks in part to Disney's Pirates Of The Caribbean series. The writer of this book is Ben Lichius who makes the story truly come alive. The art unparalleled with anything that is out there now. Some of his other work is Sorrow from Image and Left on a mission from Boom Comics. There is now a second series out that continues from the previous series ( A Call To Arms) where our character dies. I have included a link to there website which is well kept and has links to the entire creative team.http://www.the-black-coat.com/
About the Comic
The Story …It is April in the year 1775. War is only weeks away - maybe even days. The British know it and so do the members of the newly formed colonial Continental Congress. Only through the use of a vast network of spies can either side hope to keep one step ahead of the other. Nowhere is this struggle more intense than in New York City, the bustling headquarters for all of Britain’s activities in the colonies. Like Berlin during the height of the Cold War, New York is a city of pivotal importance. It is a place where colonists and those loyal to the crown are equally represented and an uneasy tension fills the air.
In the last several weeks, the British have become desperate to maintain their control over the colonies and have secretly enlisted the services of a powerful and mysterious group of individuals who call themselves ‘The League.’ Unbeknown st to the British, the League is a maniacal and treacherous organization whose members possess dangerous supernatural powers that threaten to bring chaos to the land and ultimately destroy the colonies themselves.
Nathaniel Finch is a budding scientist, a successful business man, and the editor of a weekly newspaper in New York City. An exceptionally intelligent and hard working man, Nathaniel could easily have found himself to be one of the most influential men in the Colonies, knee deep in politics, along side men like Samuel Adams, John Hancock, and Benjamin Franklin. But as much as Nathaniel might be tempted to lead what some would call an ‘ordinary life’, he has a different set of priorities. Perhaps better than anyone, he knows that there are things in this world - mysterious, unexplainable, deadly things - that represent more of a threat to life and liberty than taxation without representation.
To combat these threats and to keep those around him safe, Nathaniel Finch has become the masked spy known as The Black Coat. Even as a revolutionary war is burgeoning around him, The Black Coat, assisted by a network of agents, fights another kind of war - a war unseen by most men. His determination, skill, and wits are his only defenses against ancient curses, mythical creatures, and enchanted science.
The Black Coat faces his greatest challenge in the form of The League. All of his intelligence, all of his strength, all of his courage will be put to the test in a battle for the survival of not just him and his men, but for a new nation!

Rob

My first Comic Book

2007-08-12T00:04:00.000-04:00

What is the first comic you can remember reading? Was it your gateway book that got you to try other comics or was it something that actually put you off for a time just to be brought in by some other book? My first book was Avengers #135.

I was in third grade and used to walk the five or six blocks to school by myself (wouldn't do that today). On the way home I would sometimes stop at a candy store and buy penny candy. I don't remember what made me stop at the comics rack, but I saw this cover and bought it right then and there. I wonder what else spun on the rack? The cover still seems pretty cool to me. Ultron holding the Vision in a head lock while three Avengers look on in horror.

Back then comics were only $.25 and I had a weekly allowance of $2.00. Wasn't long before I was buying eight comics a week. I guess at current prices, a kid would have to get $32 a week to start their collection as I did. Inflations sucks.

from www.newsarama.com/

2007-08-11T23:20:00.000-04:00

Looks like Marvel is about to push your buttons Rob.

"His Stardust opens this weekend, but for director Matthew Vaughn, it looks like there’ll be little rest until he starts on another comic-related project.

According to Variety, the former Layer Cake director has been tapped by Marvel Studios to direct a film adaptation of Thor, with a pre-strike production to begin in winter (many studios are stockpiling, or putting films on an accelerated schedule as a hedge against a feared Writer’s Guild strike which could slow or shut down film production at major studios for the term of the strike).

The adaptation Vaughn will be working from is written by Mark (I Am Legend) Protosevich.

As the trade points out, this is the second Marvel film franchise Vaughn has been associated with, as he was originally slated to direct X-Men 3 following the departure of Bryan Singer.

Variety speculates that Thor will follow in line with Iron Man and The Incredible Hulk, that is, it will be financed by Marvel Studios using the $500 million credit facility through Merrill Lynch.

No projected release date was given, but assuming the film starts pre-production this fall/winter and stays on track, 2009 would seem likely, perhaps with a Marvel booth unveiling of a certain hammer at San Diego Comic-Con somewhere in between.

Thor of course, is the second film in Marvel Studios trifecta (the first being Iron Man, and the final being Captain America (being written by David Self)) which will, according to the Marvel Studios panel at last year's Comic-Con, will then pave the way for a live-action Avengers film, which is already being written by Zak Pen"

Let's hope this Thor movie is very different from the one portrayed in "The Incredible Hulk Returns". Feel free to check Wikipedia.

Rob's Rambling Moe's Musings

2007-08-07T21:11:00.000-04:00

First a major shout out to Moe. Now i have another thing to take up more of my time that i don't have enough of.
Anyway I know we discussed this blog being more or less a review of books that are either new for the week or a continuing story that ends. Well Sunday on my way home from the renaissance faire. The wife decided she wanted Chinese food no problem. Well as I'm waiting for the food to cook there were a stack of magazines one called entertainment caught my attention. On the cover in bold letters San Diego Comic Con covered. I just had to read what it was about as I wouldn't normally get entertainment. The premise behind this feature article was about how the movie industry is now strip mining the comic book field for the latest and greatest. How all the prominent actors and directors showed up. All i could think about was here we go again. The 1990's all over again. Has anyone noticed how gimmick covers are back in full force. Dealers are short big books and next week they are 2-3x over cost. As a die hard fan when you found another collector it is a big deal (thanks Moe) You feel that you have your special niche that few others share. Another way to look at it is say Metallica a heavy metal band had a big cult following.Then the black album comes out. Bamm the fans cry havoc my special band is now commerical and has sold out. Well comic book fans equate it the same way. The mass media doesnt need to strip mine our world to the bigger masses. Hell yeah I enjoy a comic book movie when it comes out. Then what happens the general masses pan our movies. The comic book fans pan our own movies.Too much was changed the character doesnt fit or look the part. I hate people in general that have pre conceived notions about things. A good point is going to be the Ironman movie. Can anyone look me in the eye and say that Robert Downey looks like Tony Stark no. Tony is supposed to be a handsome 30-ish playboy. I've see better heads on a glass of beer than that craggy faced looser. Look at the last movie he stared in a remake of The Shaggy DA. His role in the part didn't exactly spark any Oscar nominations. Think back to all the times you were chastised because your peers found the 4 color world too immature. Or stupid or a waste of time, paper and you may be that person that lives in the basement of your parents house no life no girlfriend. Stand up for what you believe in. I know it is all about money. Look at the Jack Kirby's out there that don't get revenue out of there creations. I can go on and on. Is there an answer to this dillemma i dont know. I do know if anything that this is a wave that us fans have to ride out again until the implosion happens again. I mean Rob Liefeld is back at Image the fans still support him even now he has admitted that his heroes reborn is so far behind schedule. When there are great comic book professionals that cant get work yet this clown is putting out Youngblood again. Might as well wait until the next speculation market maybe you will get the full story and art.
Rob's Rambling

2007-08-02T00:35:00.000-04:00

Amazing Spider-man 542

I'll attempt to stay away from spoilers.

First one, here we go.

I was away from comics for several years after the implosion of the nineties. One of the people instrumental in bringing me back to the world of comics is my buddy Rob. Several dollars and untold hours of "rediscovering" my inner fanboy and all I have to say is...Damn him to hell!!

"Iron Man is the whipping boy of the Marvel Universe". That's one of Rob's favorite lines. In some cases that may be true. But for my money no single person has been consistently put through more hell than Peter Parker. Imagine knowing that you were responsible in one way or another, for the death of your father figure, your first true love, and her father. Damn!

Amazing Spider-man 542 is part 4 of the "Back in Black" storyline. Peter now understands that at least partially because of his actions with Iron Man, not only does the world know his identity, but the Kingpin has decided to ruin Peter's life from his prison cell. Mr Fisk is responsible for hiring the gunman that put Aunt May in the hospital inches away from death (again). This serves to push Peter over the edge. Tired of being the true whipping boy of the universe, its time to put an end to his life long torture and cross the lines placed before him when Uncle Ben was killed. With great power comes the opportunity to kick major ass.

The majority of the story and action takes place in one location. The final show down between the Kingpin and Peter (notice I didn't say Spider-man) was nothing short of a good old fashioned ass kicking. It starts with Wilson trying to get into Peter's head. What little dialogue there is, is done with great care and skill. Artistically, the panels do an excellent job of moving the story while at the same time relaying a deeper tone than words could express in such limited space. In addition, the fact that this contest takes place in prison with the entire population out of their cells as witnesses to the battle really adds to the atmosphere. A great read that I really enjoyed and would recommend to all.

Tony can have the title of universal whipping boy. Peter doesn't need it anymore.

Moe

Annihilation ConQuest

2007-07-31T20:14:00.000-04:00

The following contains spoilers.

With the success of the 1st annihilation series Marvel again continues the tradition of bilking the customer of its hard earned cash. Not to fear though. This story continues where the last left off. In Starlord the first 3 pages tell you everything you need to know to catch up. How Starlord gained favor with Ronan the accuser Who has all the metal implants that were put into him taken out. To begin his Quest (pun intended).

That is too take on the Phalanx. Essentially a race of (think Star Trek ) Borg who wants to assimilate everything and everyone into a collective race. Told you spoilers where included. The story moved along nicely. Enough was built on form this beginning story arc reading the last annihilation isn't necessary. The art is in the style of a French motif. Not a lot of background with a water color ink feel to it as well. If there were any draw backs this was it. A nice feature which I feel must be added is the addition of his partners in crime Rocket raccoon, Mantis, Groot and Captain Universe. On to Quasar this book I looked forward to only because of the relationship between Moondragon and Quasar yes read between the lines. This book has a much better look and feel to it at first glance with the art handled by mike lily. This story doesn't tie into Quasar yet so it can be read independently. It has the phalanx chasing them using the Super adaptoid already a henchman of the phalanx. Quasar looses her cool a typical Marvel move am I going insane?

Rob