Recommended Reading

Lately, Hollywood is making more & more comic book based movies. Some of them, like Road to Perdition was a comic book. Now there is a little bit of a stigma when it comes to comics. A lot of people think a few things when they think of comic books:

1. Comic Books are only for children.
2. Most people that read comic books are a stereotypical "geek"
3. Comics are still like the old cheesy Batman TV show

These are all stereotypes. Comics have tried to tackle tough subjects.
In the early 70's, both Spider-Man & Green Lantern/Green Arrow had stories with the bad affects of drugs. In the 90's the Hulk handled HIV. They aren't just men & women in spandex anymore. In Japan, comics, or Manga, are mainly read by adults. They are violent & sometime have rape in them. So the bottom line is comic aren't for kids anymore. I've complied a list of what I think are recommended "comic" books to read. They can be found in most bookstore, on-line & in some library. For the most part, these are non-traditional stories:

A Contract with God: And Other Tenement Stories - Will Eisner - This is considered to use the term "graphic novel". Dealing with stories and memories from Eisner's childhood in a Bronx tenement, he explores the brutality, fragility, and tenderness possible among people living in close quarters close to the poverty line. The four stories here are tough but funny, deep but finely detailed, much like the traditional Jewish stories he drew upon to flavor his own work.

Maus - Art Spiegelman - It tells the story of the narrator, Artie, and his father Vladek, a Holocaust survivor. "Maus" is an important example of both Holocaust literature and of the graphic novel.

Watchmen - Alan Moore and Dave Gibbons - The story concerns a group called the Crimebusters and a plot to kill and discredit them. Moore's characterization is as sophisticated as any novel's. Importantly the costumes do not get in the way of the storytelling; rather they allow Moore to investigate issues of power and control.

League of Extraordinary Gentlemen - Alan Moore and Kevin O'Neill - In this 2 book set, it's 1898 and at the behest of M, the mysterious head of the secret Service, Champion Bond is dispatched to procure the services of Miss Mina Murray (nee Harker), adventurer Allan Quartermain, "Science-Pirate" Captain Nemo, Henry Jekyll (and his monstrous alter ego) and Hawley Griffin (a.k.a. the Invisible Man).

Sandman Series - Neil Gaimen - It's a series of 10 graphic novels. The protagonist of Sandman is Dream, the immortal anthropomorphic personification of dreams and storytelling. He is known by an array of names, most often Morpheus, but also Oneiros, Lord Shaper, Lord Kai'ckul, the Prince of Stories, and, rarely, "The Sandman". He is one of a family of seven siblings known as the Endless, each of whom personifies some aspect of reality, such as Death or Desire.

Strangers In Paradise - Terry Moore - The story primarily concerns the difficult relationship between two women, Helen Francine Peters (known simply as Francine) and Katina Marie Choovanski (Katchoo), and their friends David Qin and Gwynnethina Casey Bullocks-Femur (Casey). Francine considers Katchoo her best friend; Katchoo is in love with Francine. David is in love with Katchoo, a relationship which Katchoo herself is deeply confused about. It uses a non-linear approach to storytelling, putting in sequence elements of the story often years apart, and going back in time frequently.

V for Vendetta - Alan Moore & David Llyod - It is 1998 and a Fascist government has taken over the U.K. The only blot on its particular landscape is a lone terrorist who is systematically killing all the government personnel associated with a now destroyed secret concentration camp. Codename V is out for vengeance ... and an awful lot more.

Preacher - Garth Ennis - tells the story of Jesse Custer, a down-and-out preacher in the small Texas town of Annville. Custer was accidentally possessed by the supernatural creature named 'Genesis' in an incident which killed his entire congregation and flattened his church. Custer, driven by a strong sense of right and wrong, goes on a journey across the United States attempting to (literally) find God, who abandoned Heaven the moment Genesis was born. He is joined by his old girlfriend Tulip O'Hare, as well as a hard-drinking Irish vampire named Cassidy.

Understanding Comics & Reinventing Comics - Scott McCloud - A comic book about comic books. McCloud explains the details of how comics work: how they're composed, read and understood. More than just a book about comics, this gets to the heart of how we deal with visual languages in general.

Kingdom Come - Alex Ross & Mark Waid - In this beautifully painted story, Superman and the Justice League in the near future try to control the growing population of largely amoral and dangerously irresponsible new superheroes. Batman, Superman, Wonder Woman, and almost every other character from DC Comics must choose sides in what could be the final battle of them all.

Now these are only some suggestions & not a definite list. I'm sure I'm missing some other good books, but these are good to start.

Read more...

Read More

MEZCO Cinema Of Fear 3

Mezco’s wildly popular Cinema of Fear series continues with their third offering of 7inch figures. Featuring uncannily film accurate likenesses, the award winning Mezco sculptors prove once again they know the world of cinematic horror better than anyone.

The newest wave features for iconic horror figures;

*Freddy from Nightmare On Elm Street 5, with alternate hand, deformed Freddy baby, and film accurate chef hat.

*Leatherface from the Texas Chainsaw Massacre remake, includes infamous chainsaw, mallet, and maskless alternate head revealing the true face of horror!

*Jason from Friday The 13th Jason Goes to Hell, with machete, dagger, and the beloved miniature Jason demon.

*The Hitchhiker from the classic Texas Chainsaw Massacre. One of the most highly anticipated figures of 2008, this is the first time the hitchhiker has ever been captured in action figure form. Destined to become a fan favorite! He comes complete with his bindle, camera, pocketknife, and razor.

Each stands approximately 7 inches tall.
Read more...

Read More

Joe Quesada Dishes on Secret Invasion, Iron Man & More In MyCup o’ Joe Week 4

Secret Invasion! Invincible Iron Man! And…Thor versus Hulk? In this week’s installment of MyCup o’ Joe at MySpace Comic Books, Marvel’s Editor in Chief, Joe Quesada dishes on Secret Invasion, Iron Man and lets you know if Spider-Man prefers the Mets or The Yankees! Don’t miss Joe’s answers to your burning questions…and exclusive art you won’t find anywhere else…including your first look at Secret Invasion #3! It’s all at http://www.myspace.com/comicbooks!

Want to get in on the action? Head over to http://www.marvel.com/cupojoe and http://www.myspace.com/comicbooks to leave your questions for Joe Q and he’ll answer them each and every Friday!
Read more...

Read More

Thundercracker Infiltrates New York Comic Con!

With this year’s New York Comic Con fast approaching, we’re excited to announce the latest Transformers exclusive bust only available at the show! Sold only at the Action Figure Xpress booth and limited to just 400 pieces, the Transformers Thundercracker bust captures the beginning of this Decepticon’s long and treacherous path.

One of Megatron’s fiercest warriors, Thundercracker was left for dead after the disastrous attack on Autobot City. Just like his former leader Megatron, Thundercracker was discovered by the powerful Unicron and reconfigured into a more powerful form in order to destroy the Autobots once and for all. While Megatron became Galvatron, Thundercracker becomes Scourge and begins to walk the dangerous line between supporting Galvatron’s madness and protecting the universe from the same…

This six-inch bust features a hyper-detailed sculpt created by Art Asylum as well as a hand-numbered base with matching box and Certificate of Authenticity. Make sure you act quick before these exclusive busts are history!
Read more...

Read More

TML Sapphire, Sharaku, Leo, Dr. Ochanomizu

Tezuka Moderno Labo

- “Leo” – 3” PVC Figure
- “Sapphire” – 3” PVC Figure
- “Dr. Ochanomizu” – 3” PVC Figure
- “Sharaku” – 4 ½” PVC Figure

Organic Hobby, Inc proudly introduces its new and original products for the U.S. market, “Tezuka Moderno Labo Series [Leo, Sapphire, Dr. Ochanomizu & Sharaku].” Organic's Tezuka Moderno Labo series brings the best selection of Osamu Tezuka's most popular characters adorably redesigned and articulated miniature PVC figures.

These items are limited quantity so don’t wait too long......

The following four figures set to be released in June with a SRP of $15.00 [Master case: 48 pcs] are:

• "Leo" also know as "Kimba" is a fictional character originated from a Japanese anime series from the 1960s named "Jungle Emperor" (or also known in the United States as Kimba the White Lion), created by Osamu Tezuka, and based on his manga of the same title which started in 1950. It was the first color TV animation series created in Japan. The entire series of manga was first published in serialized form in Manga Shonen magazine. "Leo" is 3" tall PVC figure and comes in a clear box. The figure has a swivel joint located at the neck.
  
• "Sapphire," is originated from the Japanese manga "Princess Knight. The young Prince of Silverland Sapphire, is in reality a girl, but must pretend to be a boy in order to inherit the throne and prevent the evil Duke Duralumon from taking power. "Sapphire" is 3" tall PVC figure and comes in a clear box. The figure has a swivel joint located at the neck.
  
• "Dr. Ochanomizu" is a fictional character created by Osamu Tezuka, introduced in Episode 1: Birth of Astro Boy, where he rescued Astro from Caccitore's circus. The present head of the Institute of Science and a fearless campaigner for robotic rights. Kind, patient and good-natured, he serves as a mentor for both Astro and Uran, and would willingly give his life for either. Somewhat eccentric by nature, he tends to be excitable when faced by a scientific mystery, particularly when his opinions are questioned by his scientific colleagues. "Dr. Ochanomizu" is 3" tall PVC figure and comes in a clear box.
  
• "Sharaku" is the main character of Osamu Tezuka's manga and anime known as "The Three-Eyed One (Mitsume ga tooru)". He is a little boy who has a terrible power. On his forehead is a third eye that, if open, releases extremely dangerous mystical energy that turns him into an evil sorcerer, bent on conquering mankind, and able to summon demons and wielding a red harpoon wand called Red Condor. Sharaku is, in fact, descended from the mysterious ancient race of Three-Eyed Ones, who were responsible for constructing the pyramids and many wonders of the ancient world. "Sharaku" is 3" tall PVC figure and comes in a clear box.
  
  
  
  

Read more...

Read More

Sue Storm Betrays The Fantastic Four?

Marvel is finally able to unveil the full cover to Secret Invasion: Fantastic Four #1 as the team’s betrayer stands revealed as…Sue Storm! But, trapped in the Negative Zone, the FF must figure out if they’re who they think they are and decide who they really trust!

SECRET INVASION: FANTASTIC FOUR #1 (of 3) (MAR082209)
Written by ROBERTO AGUIRRE-SACASA
Penciled by BARRY KITSON
Cover by ALAN DAVIS
Rated A …$2.99
FOC—4/24/08, On-Sale—5/14/08

Read more...

Read More

WIZARD #200 UNLEASHES MILLAR AND HARRIS' WAR HEROES!

WIZARD #200 UNLEASHES MILLAR AND HARRIS' WAR HEROES!

First full-color look at Millar and Harris' WAR HEROES comes in WIZARD #200 PLATINUM!

This past month CIVIL WARS' Mark Millar and EX MACHINA's Tony Harris announced their newest superhero collaboration, WAR HEROES, and at long last WIZARD #200 PLATINUM will give readers their first full look at the upcoming mini-series.

"Thus far we've been pretty coy with the art by only showing my pencils," Harris said. "But WIZARD #200 PLATINUM will be the first place to see the art fully fleshed out, including Cliff Rathburn's inks and colorist JD Mettler's gorgeous palette. I think the final results will surprise a lot of people. It's truly a huge leap from my previous superhero work, in the best of ways."

WIZARD #200 PLATINUM will be the first glimpse at the completed art and contains unseen material giving the first mention of one of the series' stars. In addition, an interview with both Millar and Harris gives as of yet unknown details of their upcoming superhero smash up.

Millar added, "WAR HEROES is an awfully big deal for us as it really extends a lot of the themes and ideas Tony and I first started in CIVIL WAR, ULTIMATES, FANTASTIC FOUR, EX MACHINA and KICK-ASS so we really wanted to put a extra large spotlight on the book. Considering Wizard's been such a massive supporter of both of us, it was the logical choice for the preview. I think it'll really show fans just how big the scope of WAR HEROES is, especially since it's what I would have liked ULTIMATES 3 to be."

WIZARD #200 PLATINUM (MAR083349E & MAR083350E), a full color magazine for $5.99, will be in comics stores April 30th and on newsstands May 13th.

Read more...

Read More

Why So Serious?

NECA Releases Images of their Dark Knight Products

Today NECA unveils their line of products from the most highly anticipated film of the year: The Dark Knight. Head over to the Dark Knight License Home Page, and you'll see the new collection of wall hangings, mini-alarm clocks, keychains, Head Knockers, and more! The Dark Knight explodes into theaters July 18, with these products hit shelves this summer. Take a look at our newest Head Knockers, Batman and The Joker, and make sure to check back at NECAonline for more product updates from The Dark Knight and more!



The Dark Knight reunites director Christopher Nolan with star Christian Bale, who returns to continue Batman's war on crime. With the help of Lieutenant Jim Gordon (Gary Oldman) and District Attorney Harvey Dent (Aaron Eckhart), Batman sets out to destroy organized crime in Gotham for good. The triumvirate proves to be effective, but they soon find themselves prey to a rising criminal mastermind known as the Joker (Heath Ledger), who thrusts Gotham into anarchy and forces the Dark Knight ever closer to crossing the fine line between hero and vigilante.

Read more...

Read More

TORI AMOS INKS THE COMIC BOOK TATTOO!

This July the ever-growing relationship between comics and music reaches new heights as Tori Amos and Image Comics release COMIC BOOK TATTOO, a 480-page, full color anthology adapting the themes and ideas behind her songs into a lush volume of sequential art.

"I have been surprised, excited and pleasantly shocked by these comics that are extensions of the songs that I have loved and therefore welcome these amazing stories of pictures and words because they are uncompromisingly inspiring", says Amos. "It shows you thought is a powerful formidable essence and can have acbreathtaking domino effect."

To assemble COMIC BOOK TATTOO's diverse roster of talent, Amos worked alongside editor Rantz Hoseley, co-creator behind the upcoming DISPLACED PERSONS and VIX. Together they formed a line up featuring Y: THE LAST MAN's Pia Guerra, Leah Moore, John Reppion David Mack, Hope Larson, Ryan Kelly, Jonathan Hickman, Colleen Doran, Eric Canete, Ted McKeever, Jock, Anthony Johnston, Dame Darcy, Carla Speed McNeil, Kelly Sue DeConnick, Mark Buckingham, Ivan Brandon, C. B. Cebulski and many more, including an introduction by SANDMAN creator Neil Gaiman.

Editor Hoseley added, "While the connections between comics and music have been long established by generations of creators, Comic Book Tattoo is the pure distillation of how these two art forms inspire and feed off of each other across all the classifications, genres and styles of comic storytelling. Like Tori's music, these stories run the gamut of human experience, emotion and imagination brought to life by some of the most compelling and innovative creators in the field of comics."

COMIC BOOK TATTOO, a 12" x 12" 480-page anthology, will be in stores July 23rd.

Read more...

Read More

Armored Troopers Votoms – Commando Vorct ATM-09-ST Scopedog [Vorct Custom Version & Borque Custom Version] – 5 ~ 6” PVC/ABS/PC Figures

Organic Hobby, Inc in conjunction with CM’s Corporation proudly introduces its two new products for the U.S. market, “ATM-09-ST Scopedog (Vorct Custom & Borque Custom Vers.).”

"ATM-09-ST Scopedog (Vorct Custom & Borque Custom Vers.)" are based on the famous TV Anime action series "Armored Trooper VOTOM" created by Ryosuke Takahashi and Sunrise, aired in Japan from April 1, 1983 to March 23, 1984 on TV Tokyo. The figures are each 5 ~ 6" tall PVC/ABS/PC and comes with multiple articulation points.

- ATM-09-ST Scopedog (Vorct Custom & Borque Custom Vers.) will be available in May with a SRP of $78.00.

Read more...

Read More

Xavier Battles Exodus in X-Men: Legacy #210!

Xavier Battles Exodus in X-Men: Legacy #210!

Professor Xavier has seemingly returned from the shocking events of Messiah CompleX, but now that he’s locked in mortal combat with Exodus, will his reprieve be short-lived? X-Men: Legacy #210, from superstar X-scribe Mike Carey and acclaimed artists Scott Eaton & Greg Land, presents the powerful psychic clash between Xavier and Exodus! But what is Magneto’s role in all of this? An ­X-Men: Divided We Stand tie-in, X-Men: Legacy #210 marks a crucial turn in Xavier’s journey and explores his effect on other fan favorite mutants—all affecting the future of mutantkind!

Comixtreme.com’s Ryan Broussard gushed, “Carey continues to impress me. I liked this issue a lot and I think any long time X-Men fan will feel the same way”

“Trust me, this is one X-book you'll want to keep on your pull list,” said Jesse Schedeen of IGN.Com.

Marvel urges retailers to check their orders on X-Men: Legacy and other Divided We Stand tie-ins, as they continue to sell out quickly! Can Xavier defeat Exodus? And even if he does, what condition will he be in? Find out in X-Men: Legacy #210!

X-MEN: LEGACY #210 (FEB082262)
Written by MIKE CAREY
Penciled by SCOT EATON & GREG LAND
Inked by JOHN DELL & JAY LEISTEN
Colored by FRANK D’ARMATA & BRIAN REBER
Cover by DAVID FINCH
Rated A …$2.99
FOC—4/10/08, On-Sale—4/30/08

Read more...

Read More

Legendary Comic Book Illustrator at NY Comic Con

LEGENDARY COMIC BOOK CREATOR-ILLUSTRATOR NEAL ADAMS AT NEW YORK COMIC CON AS GUEST AND EXHIBITOR

Neal To Showcase His Unique Continuity Studios As Well As Provide Sneak Preview Of Upcoming Comic Book, Graphic Novel And Video Projects

Legendary comic book artist-writer-illustrator – and in-demand advertising production studio owner and leading light – Neal Adams will be attending the upcoming New York Comic Con to be held April 18-20 at the Jacob Javits Center.

Responsible for bringing Batman into the Dark Knight persona reflected in “Batman Forever,” Neal also saved the X-Men from cancellation, and rocketed it into fans consciousness. He brought us “relevant comics” with co-creator Denny O’Neill, with their Green Arrow/Green Lantern series, and broke the back of the repressive comic code authority established in the early 50’s. His work is continuing to be seen on the big screen in the upcoming “Deadman” movie, not to mention Neal’s reintroduction of the Joker, soon to be seen in the new Batman movie, “The Dark Knight.”

A celebrated guest of this major East Coast Fab-Con, Neal will be speaking in official presentations as well as attend as an exhibitor with his multi award-winning production company, Continuity Studios. Among Neal’s high-profile achievements is the incredibly popular and beloved Nasonex Bee, with his studio providing all the CGI animation. At the New York Comic Con, Adams will unveil a Continuity Studios presentation reel showcasing his company’s award-winning design work. Neal will also spotlight his industry-recognized Animatics, proprietary animation process that revolutionized advertising production by empowering clients with the ability to test commercials’ as drawings, CGI, live, and even motion capture form.

In addition to showcasing Continuity, Neal will also unveil artwork and video related to his newest (and top secret) comic book projects, including one top secret, that is already being talked about involving a certain Caped Crusader from a major comic book publisher.

New York Comic Con is the East Coast's newest, biggest and most exciting popular culture convention. The show has doubled in size two years running. Read more...

Read More

Fenix, The Cole Train, and Two Grubs Get Packaged

NECA Releases Images of Gears of War Series 1 in Packaging

The release of Gears of War Series 1 is only a few weeks away, and anticipation is at a fever pitch. While you'll have to wait a little longer to get your own Marcus Fenix, today we're revealing the final production samples in completed packaging for all four incredible figures. Take a look at our extensive image gallery, featuring Marcus, Cole, the Locust Drone, and the Locust Sniper, and their game-accurate accessories. Make sure to check back at NECAonline for the latest Gears of War updates, including an in-depth Series 1 feature, coming soon!

Read more...

Read More

Sideshow’s Apocalypse Legendary Scale Bust

Sideshow Collectibles is excited to show off their newest Marvel Legendary Scale Bust - Apocalypse!

Apocalypse
Legendary Scale Bust
Item Number: 2959
Manufactured by: Sideshow Collectibles
Est. Ship Date: 3rd Qtr 2008
Limited Edition: TBD

Product Summary
Sideshow Collectibles and Marvel Comics proudly present the latest addition to the Marvel Legendary Scale Bust series: Apocalypse. This outstanding bust meets the standard of excellence that is the hallmark of a Sideshow sculpture. Hand-finished, hand-painted and cast in the highest quality polystone, the Apocalypse Legendary Scale Bust is a perfect addition to any X-Men or Marvel collection!

Product Specifications
License: Marvel
Product Type: Legendary Scale Bust
Product Size: 11" H (279.4mm) x 12" W (304.8mm) x 8" L (203.2mm)*
Box Size: 13.00" H (330.2mm) x 14.00" W (355.6mm) x 11.00" L (279.4mm)*
Est. Shipping Weight: 8.00 lbs (3.63 kg)*

Artists:
Pablo Viggiano
Mike Najira
Darth Rimmer
Scott Klauder
The Sideshow Collectibles Design and Development Team

Manufactured by: Sideshow Collectibles

Product Backstory
Among the most fearsome of the Marvel Universe super-villains, Apocalypse is one of the earliest mutants on the planet. His life began in the harsh deserts of ancient Egypt where he was abandoned at infancy and later taken in by nomads who taught him that only the strong survive. It was when his nomadic tribe was enslaved that Apocalypse discovered his regenerative abilities, never lastingly hurt by their cruel treatment. Apocalypse became virtually immortal once he discovered and bonded himself with extraterrestrial technology, and his undying philosophy of strength would overtake him for centuries to come as he regenerated time and time again.Apocalypse's first appearance was in the 1980s X-Factor comic series, in which he repeatedly clashed with fellow mutants, the original X-Men. It then came to light that Apocalypse had taken it upon himself to test the strength of mortal man for generations, traveling through time and reappearing throughout history, making sure that only the strong survive. Still today, he upholds his ancient philosophy, reawakening himself to wreak havoc on mankind whenever he senses weakness.

Read more...

Read More

Indiana and Henry Jones RAH Figures from Medicom Toy

Medicom Toy has released two new Indiana Jones RAH 12-inch Figures just in time for the new film: Indiana Jones and Henry Jones!

Indiana Jones
RAH12 inch Figure
Item Number: 4393
Manufactured by: Medicom Toy
Est. Ship Date: 3rd Qtr 2008
Limited Edition

Product Summary
Sideshow is pleased to announce that Lucasfilm Ltd. And Medicom Toy Corporation have granted Sideshow Collectibles the ability to import the 12-inch RAH Indiana Jones figures. These outstanding 1:6 scale figures are of the highest quality and detail, ready to take life on your shelf in any dynamic pose that you desire. Medicom Toys RAH body is one of the most articulated 12-inch figure bodies available, capable of nearly any pose that the human body can achieve. This classic Indiana Jones RAH figure represents Indy from all three original films, including many of the most famous relics that Indy collected in his classic adventures.

Product Specifications
License: Indiana Jones
Product Type: 12 inch Figure
Product Size: 12" H (304.8mm)*
Box Size: 14.00" H (355.6mm) x 7.00" W (177.8mm) x 4.00" L (101.6mm)*
Est. Shipping Weight: 3.00 lbs (1.36 kg)*



Henry Jones
RAH12 inch Figure
Item Number: 4395
Manufactured by: Medicom Toy
Est. Ship Date: 3rd Qtr 2008
Limited Edition

Product Summary
Sideshow is pleased to announce that Lucasfilm Ltd. And Medicom Toy Corporation have granted Sideshow Collectibles the ability to import the 12-inch RAH Indiana Jones figures. These outstanding 1:6 scale figures are of the highest quality and detail, ready to take life on your shelf in any dynamic pose that you desire. Medicom Toys RAH body is one of the most articulated 12-inch figure bodies available, capable of nearly any pose that the human body can achieve.

Product Specifications
License: Indiana Jones
Product Type: 12 inch Figure
Product Size: 12" H (304.8mm)*
Box Size: 14.00" H (355.6mm) x 7.00" W (177.8mm) x 4.00" L (101.6mm)*
Est. Shipping Weight: 3.00 lbs (1.36 kg)*

Read more...

Read More