Wednesday, April 8, 2009

Mattycollector.com Announces Updated Release dates on Facebook.






The following was announced on Mattycollector's Facebook page:

Quick update everyone, here are current release dates for the next few items on Mattycollector.com:

Mer-Man - 4 /15

We will likley sell out of Mer-Man on day 1, but we have a second batch coming in which should go on sale about 4/23

Zodac - 5/15

LOSH JLU 4 pack - 5/15

Hordak - 6/15

Alex Luthor/Ultraman two pack - 6/15

Man-At Arms 7/15

We are also trying to get some of the new CARS items up by 7/1 and are working hard with the CARS team on some cool surprises. More information as soon as it is available!

-Matty



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Goku and the Warrior Race Fight On as DragonBall: Evolution Collectible Figures Explode Into Toy Fair 2009





Bandai America And Twentieth Century Fox Licensing & Merchandising Launch Captivating New Toy Line that Brings DragonBall Characters From New Theatrical Release to Life

As DragonBall: Evolution hits theaters April 8, Bandai America and Twentieth Century Fox Licensing & Merchandising (Fox L&M), will give kids and collectors alike the chance to extend the viewing experience beyond the big screen with a new line of action figures based on the film. The new movie line leverages Bandai’s expertise in Japanese toy trends and within the action figure category to launch a collection of highly detailed toys styled after the stars from the film.

DragonBall has a cult following and boasts a history that is unmatched by other anime
properties. The Bandai America line will reflect the look and feel of DragonBall: Evolution all while staying true to the franchise’s long history. The detailed facial expressions and accessories only add to these action figures’ collectability, making these entertainment-inspired toys a must for boys and adult collectors.

“DragonBall: Evolution is an exceptional action adventure film that is certain to entertain collectors and new fans alike,” said Colleen Sherfey, senior director of marketing, Bandai America Inc. “We are excited to work with Fox L&M to launch a captivating new toy line that will allow viewers to bring the excitement of the movie into their own home and bring to life the unique and exciting adventures of the DragonBall characters.”

Elie Dekel, Executive Vice President Licensing and Merchandising for Fox L&M added, “The
introduction of DragonBall: Evolution is the next installment to an amazingly successful
franchise that boasts more than $4 billion in related merchandise sales. We know that fans both old and new will be looking for ways to interact with the property and Bandai America has created a great program to satisfy their hunger.”

DragonBall was created in 1984 by famed artist Akira Toriyama as a “manga series.” Since
then it has become one of the most successful manga franchises of all-time spawning best
selling graphic novels, comic books, video games, toys and now, a live-action movie.
DragonBall: Evolution starring Justin Chatwin (War of the Worlds), Emmy Rossum (Phantom of the Opera), Jamie Chung (Samurai Girl), James Masters (Buffy the Vampire Slayer), Eriko Tamura (NBC’s “Heroes”, Joon Park (Speed Racer) and Chow Yung Fat (Pirates of the
Caribbean: At World’s End), will release April 8, 2009.

The DragonBall: Evolution toy line will hit select retailers in April to coincide with the theatrical release and will include:

  • Movie Action Figures – Fans can collect all seven of these 4” articulated figures styled after the stars of DragonBall: Evolution and the characters that they portray. Available as Goku, Yamcha, Roshi, Piccolo, Bulma, Goku 2 and Fulum, each figure comes with a weapon or accessory unique to that character. Each figure includes a piece of theOozaru (Big Monkey), 1 of 7 DragonBalls and a piece of the DragonBall altar. Collect all seven figures to form an exclusive figure of Oozaru and the DragonBall altar. Even the packaging contains a special insert card! Collect all seven cards to form the Shenron Dragon.







  • 6” Fast-Acting Figure – Pull on the ripcord to activate each figures’ special move, like Goku and Piccolo’s rapid arm-punching action or Yamcha’s fast leg-kicking action. A DragonBall is attached to the end of the ripcord.



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Marvel Nabs 11 Eisner Nominations!






Marvel is pleased to announce that Marvel projects, writers, and artists received 11 nominations in the 2009 Will Eisner Comic Industry Awards; winners are to be decided this July as part of the 2009 San Diego Comic-Con International:

Best Continuing Series: Thor, by J. Michael Straczynski, Olivier Coipel, Mark Morales, and various

Best Limited Series: Omega the Unknown, by Jonathan Lethem, Karl Rusnak, and Farel Dalrymple

Best Limited Series: The Twelve, by J. Michael Straczynski and Chris Weston

Best New Series: Invincible Iron Man, by Matt Fraction and Salvador Larocca

Best Archival Collection/Project—Comic Books: Elektra Omnibus, by Frank Miller and Bill Sienkiewicz

Best Writer: J. Michael Straczynski, Thor, The Twelve

Best Penciller/Inker or Penciller/Inker Team: Olivier Coipel/Mark Morales, Thor (Marvel)

Best Cover Artist: Jo Chen, Buffy the Vampire Slayer, Serenity (Dark Horse); Runaways (Marvel)

Best Coloring: Val Staples, Criminal, Incognito

Best Coloring: Dave Stewart, Dark Horse titles, Captain America: White (Marvel)

Best Lettering: Farel Dalrymple, Omega: The Unknown


Marvel congratulates all our nominees and wishes them good luck in San Diego!




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Wolverine: Weapon X #1 On Sale Today!




One of 2009's most talked about new series begins in Wolverine: Weapon X #1, on sale TODAY! Writer Jason Aaron and artist Ron Garney, the fan favorite duo behind Get Mystique, reunite a new story that will shake Wolverine’s world to its core!

In the jungles of Colombia, villages are being brutally slaughtered by a team of soldiers. It’s a mess; a bloody massacre. In San Francisco, Logan learns that Roxxon is trying to create the perfect killing machine – and he just might have to remind them they already have! Who are the Adamantium Men? How does everything tie back to Wolverine’s past? The answers start here!

Fans and critics can’t stop raving about Wolverine: Weapon X:

“This will no doubt be a bloody, emotionally-charged series, if the first issue is any indication (and it certainly is).” Timothy Callahan, comicbookresources.com

“Aaron and Garney are truly the best at what they do: creating exciting and unpredictable action comics.” Steven Bari, comicsbulletin.com

“Aaron has a talent for strong, terse dialogue and vivid characterization, and unleashing him on this new core Wolverine title is the best idea Marvel has had since handing Uncanny X-Men over to Matt Fraction…[Ron Garney’s] work in "Wolverine Weapon X" may be the best stuff he's ever done. His backgrounds are detailed, his character work is exemplary, and his use of shadows and light creates the right kind of ominous atmosphere.” Timothy Callahan, ComicBookResources.Com

This is the beginning of an all-new epic story in the X-Men mythos – a perfect jumping-on point for old comic fans and new! Don’t missWolverine: Weapon X #1, on sale NOW!

WOLVERINE: WEAPON X #1 (FEB092579)
WOLVERINE: WEAPON X #1 COIPEL VARIANT
WOLVERINE: WEAPON X #1 DAVIS VARIANT
Written by JASON AARON
Pencils & Cover by RON GARNEY
50/50 Variant Cover by ADAM KUBERT
Sketch Variant Cover by ADAM KUBERT
Variant Cover A by OLIVIER COIPEL
Variant Cover B by ALAN DAVIS
Parental Advisory …$3.99
ON SALE NOW!

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Tuesday, April 7, 2009

Overlord is Dead. Long Live Overlord!






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MARVEL CREATES BOLD NEW ONLINE INITIATIVE TO HELP RETAILERS & CUSTOMERS!




Hey Mighty Marvelites! Trying to plan your Wednesday comic buying? Looking for upcoming news about comic events and sales in the area? Or perhaps you’ve moved and want to find a new comic shop? Maybe you’ve seen the newest comic book blockbuster film and want to visit the nearest shop to read more about the characters that appeared? Marvel Comics is here to help you AND your local comic retailer!

Marvel is pleased to announce that retailers are now able to participate in the Marvel Retailer Resource Center- an invaluable tool to help retailers make use of all of the information, artwork, and previews that is at their disposal. This innovative tool offers tremendous benefits to local retailers and fans. The Marvel Retailer Resource Center enables retailers to create websites for their stores with up-to-the-minute news, artwork, catalog listings and changes, as well as maps and local happenings. Ask your retailer if they have signed up for the Marvel Retailer Resource Center and tell them Marvel sent you!

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Does Your Pet Have What It Takes To Join THE PET AVENGERS?




Marvel is proud to announce that now your pets can join Lockjaw and the new super team that has everyone talking—THE PET AVENGERS!

That’s right, in honor of the upcoming Lockjaw & The Pet Avengers #1, click on http://marvel.com/news/comicstories.7153 right now and submit photos of your pets dressed as Marvel heroes to the Powers That Be at Marvel.Com. If you’re lucky, your pet may be featured as Lockjaw’s newest ally online! (Or be really adventurous and dress your pet as a Marvel villain!)

Plus don’t miss Pet Week courtesy of Marvel Digital Comics Unlimited, offering a chance to check out your favorite stories of Marvel’s mightiest animals FOR FREE! Click
http://www.marvel.com/news/comicstories.7514 right now!

What threat could force the Pet Avengers to join forces? Are Lockjaw, Redwing, Hairball, Lockheed, and Frog Thor up to the task of saving a planet? Don’t miss all the excitement in Lockjaw and the Pet Avengers #1 (of 4)!

LOCKJAW AND THE PET AVENGERS #1 (OF 4) (MAR092505)
LOCKJAW AND THE PET AVENGERS #1 (OF 4) VARIANT (MAR092506)
Written by CHRIS ELIOPOULOS
Penciled by IG GUARA
Cover by KARL KERSCHL
Variant Cover by NIKO HENRICHON
All Ages…$2.99
FOC—4/23/09, On-Sale—5/13/09

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Monday, April 6, 2009

TOP COW CONTINUES ‘LET US WIN YOU OVER’ INITIATIVE WITH WITCHBLADE #126





THE FREE COMICS KEEP COMING FROM TOP COW

Publisher unveils 25 participating retailers for month of April

Top Cow Productions, Inc. revealed today the names of the participating retailers in their “Let Us Win YOU Over” initiative for April and the program would continue the second part of their “War of the Witchblades” storyline – Witchblade #126.

The “Let Us Win YOU Over” initiative is a yearlong campaign by Top Cow Productions to give out free copies of its regular comics to potential fans in the U.S. and Canada through participating comic book stores. Each month, a different set of stores, each month a different free comic. The stores vary by geography and demographics. Top Cow has partnered with ComicsPRO to bring this promotion to fans and all of February’s retailers are members of ComicsPRO.

Witchblade #126 continues the six-part “War of the Witchblades” storyline, which promises to shake the status quo of Witchblade to its foundation. Since the events of First Born, Detective Sara Pezzini and dancer Danielle Baptiste have shared the mystical gauntlet, the Witchblade; but recently cracks have appeared in their relationship. The cracks widen in issue #126 pointing an inevitable battle. Regular writer Ron Marz writes the story with art by ongoing artist Stjepan Sejic. The issue will be in comic shops on Wednesday, April 22nd, 2009 and normally retails for $2.99.

“It’s not a coincidence that we decided to run Let Us Win YOU Over in conjunction with one of our best stories in Witchblade to date,” said Filip Sablik, Publisher of Top Cow. “The second chapter of “War of the Witchblades” digs deeper into the roots of Sara and Dani’s conflict and serves as another great jumping on point for new readers.”

“We are very excited to be a part of this Top Cow promotion,” commented Anna Warren, owner of Illusive Comics & Games of Santa Clara, CA, “Readers love free samples as a generous way to get a taste of a series they might not have otherwise picked up. And the promotion Top Cow has been doing is a great help to comic book stores, getting new comic book fans into stores. “

“Top Cow has really listened to retailers and is doing what it takes to fully market Indie titles to the average comic book reader,” added Warren.

A list of the participating retailers during the month of April (listed alphabetically by state) is included below. Additional information can be found at the official online home of the “Let Us Win YOU Over” initiative – www.topcow.com/freecomics. Customers who currently purchase Witchblade at the stores below will be able to purchase an extremely limited “All Beef” Edition (limited to just the stores listed below) at the regular cover price. Fans are encouraged to contact the retailer they wish to visit for specific details:

Collector’s Edition
3217 John F. Kennedy Blvd
North Little Rock, AR 72116
501-791-4222
www.thewildstars.com

Atomic Comics
4537 E Cactus Rd
Phoenix, AZ 85032
602-923-0733
www.atomiccomics.com

A-1 Comics
5361 Auburn Blvd
Sacramento, CA 95841
916-331-9203
www.a-1comics.com

Alakazam Comics
4237 Campus Drive Ste B162
Irvine, CA 92612
949-854-3744
www.alakazamcomics.com

Illusive Comics & Games
2725 El Camino Real Ste #105
Santa Clara, CA 95051
408-985-7481
www.illusivecomics.com

Njoy Comics & Games
8415 Reseda Blvd #4
Northridge, CA 91324
818-709-0599
www.njoy.us

Happy Harbor Comics
10326-81 Ave
Edmonton, AB Canada T6E 1X2
780-439-8277
www.happyharborcomics.com

Happy Harbor Comics
4920-50 St
Lloydminster, SK Canada S9V 0P5
306-825-6987
www.happyharborcomics.com

Redd Skull Comics & CDs
720A Edmonton Trail NE
Calgary, AB Canada T2E 3J4
403-230-2716
www.reddskull.com

Captain Blue Hen Comics
280 E Main St Ste 101
Newark, DE 19711
302-737-3434
www.captainbluehen.com

Twilight Gaming & Comics
3760 Green Mount Crossing Dr
Shiloh, IL 62269
618-622-0085
www.twilightcomics.com

BuyMeToys.com
6327 A University Commons
South Bend, IN 46635
574-271-8697
www.buymetoys.com

BSI Comics
3030 Severn Ave Ste 8
Metaire, LA 70002
504-885-5250
www.bsicomics.com

Hub Comics
19 Bow St
Somerville, MA 02143
617-721-0992
www.hubcomics.com

Modern Myths
34 Bridge St #4
Northampton, MA 01060
413-582-6973
www.modern-myths.com

Third Eye Comics
15 Old Solomons Island Rd Ste 102
Annapolis, MD 21401
410-897-0322
www.thirdeyecomics.com

Clem’s Collectibles
212 S Washington Square
Lansing, MI 48933
517-485-2369
www.clemscollectibles.com

Rook’s Comics & Games
2622 W Main St Ste C
Bozeman, MT 59718
406-556-2153
www.rookscomicsandgames.com

The Record Store
6299 Route 9 North
Howell, NJ 07731
732-905-9056
www.therecordstorenj.com

Midtown Comics (Grand Central)
46-30 21st St
Long Island City, NY 11101
1-800-411-3341
www.midtowncomics.com

Comics & Paperback Plus
40 E Main St
Ephrata, PA 17522
717-733-0418
www.comicsandpaperbackplus.com

New Dimension Comics
20550 Route 19-Piazza Plaza
Cranberry Twp, PA 16066
724-776-0433
www.ndcomics.com

Dewayne’s World Comics & Games
459 E Sullivan St
Kingsport, TN 37660
423-247-8997
www.dewaynes-world.com

Lone Star Comics-Arlington
1215 South Cooper
Arlington, TX 76010
817-265-0491
www.lonestarcomics.com

Comic Evolution
1114 B River Road
Puyallup, WA 98371
253-770-6464
www.comic-evolution.com

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MINI-MARVELS' CHRIS GIARRUSSO CONTINUES MAKING TOTALLY AWESOME COMICS IN MAY'S G-MAN, VOL. 1: LEARNING TO FLY DIGEST!





Fans of Mini-Marvels to be pleased by Chris Giarrusso's creator-owned superhero comic, G-MAN: LEARNING TO FLY!

Readers shocked by Chris Giarrusso's departure from Mini-Marvels will be pleased to learn he's expanding his unique take on superheroes in this May's G-MAN, VOL. 1: LEARNING TO FLY !

"Working Mini-Marvels was cool, but G-MAN, VOL. 1: LEARNING TO FLY is what I've been wanting to do for years," Giarrusso said. "It's the story I was wanting to write and draw the entire time doing Mini-Marvels so I'm happy those fans are psyched by the collection. G-MAN and company are going to be taking up all my attention for the foreseeable future and I aim to make the long-time Mini-Marvels readers happy!"

G-MAN, VOL. 1: LEARNING TO FLY collects the entirety of Giarrusso's Comic Bits strips, showcasing his entire line up of all-ages friendly superheroes including G-Man, his mean brother Great Man and friends like Billy Demon, Tan Man & Spark! These strips set the stage for this fall's G-MAN miniseries, giving fans old and new the chance to catch up. Also included is a full-length origin story, a G-Man Christmas tale and the complete acclaimed Mean Brother/Idiot Brother series.

G-MAN, VOL. 1: LEARNING TO FLY (MAR092415), a 96-page full color digest-sized softcover for $9.99, will be in stores May 20 2009.


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*Heroes Wanted: Author Seeks Costumed Convention Attendees*

Author and journalist Mike Drake is looking for a few good heroes. Specifically he is looking for people who dress as heroes, or villains, at comic book and sci-fi conventions.

He’s spent two years snapping photos at gathering such as San Diego and New York Comic Con.

Now he’d like to hear some of the personal stories of these “weekend heroes”.

If you attend conventions, or other events (excluding Halloween and costume parties), in costume, and are 18 years of age or older, please contact Mike Drake at

weekendheroes@gmail.com

Include your contact information along with information on what conventions you have attended and what character(s) you dress as.
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Marvel Comics On-Sale 04/08/09





Hey there True Believers, here’s your official list of comic books, collections and posters arriving in comic stores on April 8th, 2009. For more information on any of these titles, and on upcoming mighty Marvel releases, please visit http://www.marvel.com/catalog/?date=2009-04-08 or contact your local comic book retailer at 1-888-comicbook. Stay tuned each week for a brand new list of Marvel releases so that you’ll never miss your favorite heroes in action!

AGENTS OF ATLAS #2 BACHALO 2ND PRINTING VARIANT (DR)
ALL-NEW SAVAGE SHE-HULK #1 (DR)
ANITA BLAKE, THE LAUGHING CORPSE - NECROMANCER #1
ANITA BLAKE, THE LAUGHING CORPSE - NECROMANCER #1 WOLVERINE VS ANITA BLAKE VARIANT
BLACK PANTHER #2 LASHLEY 2ND PRINTING VARIANT (DR)
CAPTAIN BRITAIN AND MI13 #12
CAPTAIN BRITAIN AND MI13 #12 WOLVERINE ART VARIANT
DAREDEVIL NOIR #1
DAREDEVIL NOIR #1 CALERO VARIANT
DARK REIGN: HAWKEYE #1 (DR)
DARK TOWER: GUIDE TO GILEAD
DEADPOOL: SUICIDE KINGS #1
EXILES #1
EXILES #1 WOLVERINE ART VARIANT
MARVEL ADVENTURES SPIDER-MAN #50
MARVEL APES: AMAZING SPIDER-MONKEY SPECIAL
MARVEL ZOMBIES 4 #1
MARVEL ZOMBIES 4 #1 SUYDAM VARIANT
NEW AVENGERS: THE REUNION #1 LOPEZ 2ND PRINTING VARIANT (DR)
PUNISHER: FRANK CASTLE MAX #69
SECRET WARRIORS #2 CASELLI 2ND PRINTING VARIANT (DR)
SOLEIL: YTHAQ - NO ESCAPE #1
SOLEIL: YTHAQ - NO ESCAPE #1 VARIANT
THE ODYSSEY #8
THE WONDERFUL WIZARD OF OZ #5
TIMESTORM 2009/2099 #1
ULTIMATE WOLVERINE VS. HULK #4
WAR OF KINGS: ASCENSION #1
WAR OF KINGS: ASCENSION #1 PELLETIER VARIANT
WOLVERINE: WEAPON X #1
WOLVERINE: WEAPON X #1 COIPEL VARIANT
WOLVERINE: WEAPON X #1 DAVIS VARIANT
WOLVERINE: WEAPON X #1 KUBERT (50/50 COVER)
WOLVERINE: WEAPON X #1 KUBERT SKETCH VARIANT

Collections On-Sale:
IRON MAN: LEGACY OF DOOM TPB
MARVEL ZOMBIES 2 TPB
MARVEL ZOMBIES 3 HC
MOBY DICK GN
UNCANNY X-MEN: MANIFEST DESTINY HC
WOLVERINE: DANGEROUS GAMES TPB
WOLVERINE: LOGAN TPB

*DR= Dark Reign tie-in


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Saturday, April 4, 2009

FOX ATOMIC COMICS AND BOOM! STUDIOS ANNOUNCE 28 DAYS LATER COMICS





New Ongoing Series Hits Shelves In July!

Fox Atomic Comics and BOOM! Studios announced today at the Emerald City Comicon in Seattle, WA that July will see 28 DAYS LATER return to comic books and graphic novels.

Initial launch story will be firmly based in 28 DAYS LATER continuity with the first arc focusing on Selena. Bridging the gap between 28 DAYS LATER and 28 WEEKS LATER, a few key questions will be answered along the way: what happened to Selena after 28 DAYS LATER? How did Selena happen upon the machete she wields in 28 DAYS LATER?

The film franchise has grossed over $145 million globally and been named by the cable channel Bravo as having one of "The 100 Scariest Movie Moments" -- Empire Magazine honored it as one of the "500 Greatest Movies of All Time." The New York Times called it "Bracingly smart."

Fox Atomic first made a splash with a series of SpikeTV Award-winning original graphic novels in 2007 including 28 DAYS LATER: THE AFTERMATH, featuring work from 30 DAYS OF NIGHT creator Steve Niles, followed by THE HILLS HAVE EYES: THE BEGINNING written by Jimmy Palmiotti and Justin Gray. A third graphic novel, the International Horror Guild Award-winning THE NIGHTMARE FACTORY was also released, adapting stories from Bram Stoker and World Fantasy Award-winner Thomas Ligotti. THE NIGHTMARE FACTORY: VOLUME TWO, the second graphic novel in the series, followed in 2008.

The new Fox Atomic Comics and BOOM! Studios collaboration will see titles serialized as individual single issue comic books before being collected into trade paperback graphic novels available in the direct and mass bookstore markets. 28 DAYS LATER #1 is the first in the series for this new collaboration.
The Fox Atomic Comics - BOOM! Studios venture will see a broad expansion of Fox Atomic's titles after its previous success. Partners are keeping the specific details of the series under wraps with expectations for further announcements later in the convention season featuring marquee series and high-profile creators.


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Friday, April 3, 2009

Joe Q Talks Breaking Into Comics, Captain America, Spider-Man And MORE!





What shocking Spider-Man event in New Avengers #51 has Joe Q on the hot seat? You can find out now at MySpace Comic Books (www.myspace.com/comicbooks) in the latest MyCup o’ Joe! The Marvel EiC also dishes on how to break into the comic industry, how not to break in and answers your questions. Just how does Captain America throw his shield? We’ve got the answer straight from the University of Minnesota’s Physics Department, along with a look at the futures of Ms. Marvel, Incredible Hercules and more!

Head on over to http://www.myspace.com/comicbooks and leave your questions for Joe Q and he’ll be back to answer them! So what are you waiting for? Check out the latest MyCup o’ Joe now!


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Review of Justice Society of America # 25 (DC Comics) By Eddie R

Dark times for the Marvel Family.....


If you know the saying “Absolute power corrupts absolutely”, then you know where I am going with this review of Justice Society of America #25.



We pick up where we left off on the Rock of Eternity. Black Mary Marvel is holding Billy Batson against his will and trying to force him to say her name “Mary Marvel”. Upon doing this, Billy is transformed via the magic lightning into some sort of corrupted version of Captain Marvel. For some reason, I like seeing this. To me, this feels liberating, as I got tired of the goody- two- shoes Image the Marvel Family always seems to be stuck with. This feels like real change, both on paper and symbolic.

Soon, we learn Black Adam is under a strain for sharing his powers with Isis, Mary and Billy. Adam has never done this before, and the experience has begun to change him, making him feel as if he is losing himself. He soon realizes that this transformation has also taken place in his beloved Isis, who wishes to punish everyone, both wicked and innocent, and make the Earth burn so they may start anew.
Even when Adam tries to reason with Isis, who threatens to hurt him if he tries to stand in her way, and after Adam is attacked and restrained by both Mary and Billy, Adam comes face to face with the reality of sharing his power.

“This is your family now, Adam” Isis says.... Dark days indeed, I say.

Meanwhile, we rejoin the side adventure of Jay Garrick and the ghost of Billy Batons father, in the quest to put an end to Black Adam’s corrupted power. Where they end up is quite surprising, but the who and what they discover will leave readers wondering if this is yet another set up for more change?

As the Battle between the Black Marvels, Isis, and the JSA continues, Atom Smasher manages to confront Black Adam himself, making him see that Adam’s own anger has stained his powers, and the only way to stop all this madness is to call this power back. But Adam realizes if he does do this, his beloved Isis dies. Things get even more complicated when Jay Garrick and Billy’s father appear with the only possible solution to everyone’s problems. Having to choose between the lesser of two evils, as viewed through Adams eyes, he surrenders powers and all. But the end results are much unexpected, and will leave readers to wonder how much further this corruption will spread before it is finally stopped?

Even though at the end of the story we see the aftermath of those looking for what they lost, and those looking at what they have gained, one has to wonder what the reader will get from all of this?

If the final panels indicate anything, looks like more darkness and more change.

7.5/10
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Watch the Spider-Man TV Series from 1967 on Marvel.com






Spider-Man swings into animated action with the classic cartoon streaming now on Marvel.com!

Fanfare is in order, webheads, as the legendary and pleasantly nostalgic "Spider-Man" animated series from 1967 makes its Marvel.com debut! Starting today, kids of all ages can stream episodes of the show right here on Marvel.com, with "new" episodes going up every Thursday!

First airing on the ABC television network in 1967, the series revolves around the scientific-minded teenager Peter Parker who, after being bitten by a radioactive spider, develops amazing strength and spider-like powers. He decides to become a crime-fighting, costumed super hero; all the while dealing with his personal problems and the insecurities resulting from being a teenager. Each episode features two parts so you get twice as many web-slinging adventures in each video!

Episode 1 features "The Power of Dr. Octopus" (Dr. Octopus kidnaps Spider-Man in order to hold the city ransom) and "Sub-Zero for Spidey" (Spider-Man battles ice creatures to save his city from freezing). We know you can't wait to hear that unmistakable theme song. So what are you waiting for? Watch the first episode at
http://www.marvel.com/news/moviestories.7478 and come back every Thursday for more Spidey action!

For more Marvel video—from complete episodes to original Marvel.com productions, go to
http://marvel.com/videos/



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Review for The Flash: Rebirth #1 (DC Comics) By Eddie R.

Barry’s back...... or is he?

Like everyone else in the comic book world, I was thrilled when I heard Geoff Johns and Ethan Van Sciver were going to give The Flash a touch of Rebirth, just like they did for the Green Lantern Franchise. I was even more excited to read that they were bringing back one of my childhood favorites, Barry Allen.




Unlike others in my age group (early 30’s) who think of Wally West as “their Flash”, mines always been Barry. I grew up reading The Flashes Silver-Age stories from old issues, found at various flea markets and garage sales, at very young age. So the Barry I remember is still the noble soul who sacrificed his life for all those he loved, when he first “died” back in Crisis on Infinite Earths. To me, this was a signal that things within the DCU were going to change. And after reading this first issue of The Flash: Rebirth, I have that same feeling again.

Right from the start, we are confronted with a mystery. A villain, who, if you know what to look for in the first 2 pages, and whose identity becomes obvious to readers of the Wally West series, manages to recreate the same accident which gave both Barry and Wally their powers. It is at the end of this sequence of events where we learn this villain is the one responsible for bringing Barry back.

But at what cost?

As the story progresses, we learn that the citizens of Keystone City, along with the heroes of the DC Universe, have planned various “welcome back” parties, to celebrate Barrys return.

There’s only one catch: Barry himself isn’t really in a celebrating mood.

Barry feels that he cannot stand still in one place too long, like something is after him. Either this is a case of foreshadowing on Geoff Johns part, or maybe the way Impulse is acting to his grandfathers return is justifiable, and another sign that something isn’t right with the Speedforce.

More Evidence follows as certain flashbacks reveal a hidden aspect of Barry’s past, which seems out of place and character. Then the sudden appearance, and death, of another Speedster trapped within the Speedforce, shows the readers that this isn’t going to be your typical Flash Story.

For all the new readers who want to get into The Flash series, and those who love a good detective story, this book is for you.

For all the Barry Allen, Wally West, Impulse, and even Jay Garrick fans out there, all I can say is if you know your “Flash Facts”, then you know this story is going to pick up speed very quickly.

8/10
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TOY DISTRIBUTION 101

Brian Isaacs
Story Editor

These days, it seems like it's really easy to blame Hasbro or Mattel for the poor distribution of their products.

The problem doesn't lie entirely with the manufactures, but rather the stores themselves.

You really need to understand how the distribution works with the toys.

• The manufacturer comes up with a concept.

• They shop around for a store to buy their product. Either one on one, or at Toy Fair.

• From there an order is place for the manufacturer for the store. It's the buyer or marketing person that determines what store gets which toy line.

• The toys are manufactured and then shipped out.

• At this point, the manufacturer no longer has control of the situation.

• From there it goes to the store's distribution center, where is divided up to the individual stores.

• This is based on a decision made by the store's buyer or marketing department.

• It's up to the store to determine what it gets and how much.

• And sometimes, the new stock isn't put out, until the old stock is completely sold.

While the entire process can be frustrating, in most cases, there is very little manufacturers like Hasbro & Mattel can do. They can try to talk to the stores, but the manufacturers usually deal with things on a corporate level, not the store level.

This is where you, as a consumer, need to step in.

At your local store, as to speak to the manager, in person. Find out his side of the story. Most times they'll tell you that the put out what they receive or that they sell as soon as they put out on the racks. As long as you are civil to the manager, there's a very good chance that they'll work with you.

If you can't get any satisfaction that way, then take it up to the next level.

Contact the corporate offices of Target, Wal-Mart, & Toys R Us.

Ask for either the toy buyer, the regional buyer, or the marketing department.

This isn't an easy task by any means, so be persistent.

Keep calling until you talk to someone, and do ever settle for the customer service department. That is just a dead zone.

The numbers are below.

Target - (612) 304-6073

Wal-Mart - 479-273-4000

Toys R Us - (973) 617-3500

Hopefully if everyone calls, the stores will get the idea, & stock the figures we want, accordingly

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