Laid Back Comics

Who Would Win #14: Spider-Man vs Blue Beetle

2012-01-28T14:31:00.000-06:00

Top 10 Best Comics of 2011

2012-01-04T17:40:00.000-06:00

3rd Annual CotGW Charity event!

2011-11-28T17:53:00.001-06:00

Hey everyone, taking a moment to not talk about comics to get you a heads up. My fellow correspondent on Nerd to the 3rd Power Podcast and his site Clan of the Grey Wolf are putting on their 3rd Annual Charity Gaming Marathon for the American Cancer Society. This year they will be spending three days and nights playing the famous, the term is used loosely here, CD-I games. Bellow is a video giving you some more details. So please head over on December 9th through the 12th for some fun, laughs, and to help out a good cause.

CANCELPOCALYPSE Now!

2011-11-18T11:40:00.001-06:00

(Special thanks for iFanboy for the name above, better name I could ever come up with)

Dear Marvel,

Hi there, Bryan here and I have a question to ask you. What the hell is going on over there!?

Let me try to explain this a little bit more. Over the past few weeks Marvel has been making some cut backs. First it was collection of layoffs of employees ranging from editors to people working in their digital department. But, soon the other shoe started coming down and titles were getting cancelled as well. Now every comic fan knows that sooner or later a series will be canceled for one reason or another, most often it comes down to sales. Low selling sales means the book will not last long at all, and for the most part that is what this looked like, at first. There are some other just odd and baffling moves going on.

The first set of titles that were cancelled were Iron Man 2.0 (Which was in fact a War Machine solo book), All Star Winners Squadron, and Alpha Flight. Now poor War Machine has always struggled on his own and his book losing again is a sad but not unexpected event. As for All Star's it seems they were more of a victim of the layoffs than anything else as their editor was let go and that seemed to force the book to end early, but this also means this mini was left unfinished with no clue if it ever will be.

It's Alpha Flight's cancellation that left a lot of people starching their heads. It was just going to be a eight issue miniseries, but suddenly the buzz around the book and some good reviews Marvel promoted the book to a full ongoing. This all sounds good before suddenly the plug was pulled at the series ends with issue eight, the original mini-series number. And the reason for it was stated the book wasn't profitable enough. So the question remained what was the point of the promotion of the title if sales didn't match it or even falling? But at least they the book will be able finish the story.

Now at this point nothing seemed out of the ordinary in the business of comics. But, a new twist came about not too much later when Nick Spencer's Victor Von Doom miniseries was pulled. Why was this one such a bigger event, it was because the first three issues were solicited covers and all. I still really haven't found a reason for this action. There are conflicting reports and none I have found sound, to be frank, believable. So I will go with the excuse of 'stuff happened'.

And then the pile grows, Destroyers was another miniseries that was announced at Fan Expo, shown off the first cover and story. It actually looked to be a fun little series that would be a good pick up for some side story. It was also canned, but since it was never solicited one has to wonder if they were even going to announce it was never coming out at all. So that was it right? The last.....no of course not.

Adventures in Baby Sitting Marvel style

Just recently another string of titles are being cancelled, X-23, Ghost Rider, and Black Panther: The Most Dangerous Man Alive, though the last one is being called a series finally which could just men the story was told and it is ending. That is a total of eight titles in about two months, this goes back to my first question, what is going on? The reason of low sales might not be the whole story any more.

At one time Marvel said they were looking to pull back on some of their titles, well this would do it but not sure if they mean to do it almost all at the same time. There is also planned to be fewer miniseries in the future and focusing on monthly titles. That is sad to hear, one of the best things about miniseries is the chance to let a smaller character shine a bit when they are unable to hold a long running title. But, with the economy the way it is, it seems like a good idea to hold back on the more expensive items and focus on your core group.

But, the biggest shock to this is that by February of next year, there will be no Marvel female character solo titles AT ALL. That is a shocking statement with in itself, now while female characters are prominent in team books I don't understand why there isn't at least one or two female titles. Of course that could just be a sad fact among the industry itself and not just on Marvel's shoulders. If there is a certain sales count that a book needs to make to keep a title going and the female books keep falling under that there is something else going on and not the lack of trying on Marvel part to put the books out.

So this has been a very odd month in the house of ideas, mainly because this is the topic a lot of people are talking about and not the books themselves. But, hey if anyone out there has an answer to this please help me out cause I still want to know what is going on.

Grifter, DC new underdog.

2011-11-08T16:49:00.001-06:00

As many you may know from following me on Twitter (And if you don't Can you please, Follow me here, see I even said please)

A few days ago I went a bit on a sake fueled rant about the most random of comic topics. One of them was how much I like the new Grifter series. Now looking around, after a day of rest any way, I noticed something, the lack of love for the book and the character. And I want to try and shed some light on things I have seen or heard in hopes you all get into the book.

I am positive this is a bad way to shoot a gun.

1. I don't know who Grifter is!

Story of my life for comics I read. The short story is that Grifter is a character created by Jim Lee when he help found Image comics, when Lee left and made Wildstorm all his characters came with him. He was a team member of WildC.A.T.s team book. When Wildstorm closed those character were intergrated in this new DC Universe, for Grifter it was getting his own series.

2. I never read Wildstorm or WildC.A.T.S.

That's cool, you don't have to. New beginning for some of these books remember. Unlike some of the other books in this new Universe that have a standard history to follow, (Batman's parents are killed, Krypton blows up, Aquaman talks to fish) Grifter is lucky enough to get a clean slate and start from a very clear beginning point.

3. He isn't going to be like the one I read.

This is a bit of a hurdle I had to jump as well. If you read anything of Wildstorm or even back with Image when he debuted then even suggesting this book might cause trouble. But, look the new series is just that a new series. Think of it like the new Thundercats show, a new start, same cast, slightly updated story, and look you still have the others on DVD to watch when you want to.

4. Who is even writing the new series?

Nathan Edmondson, other series include Olympus, The Light, and Who is Jack Ellis.

"There better be a trampoline under me."

5.I tried the first issue there is no back story!

Okay, it is this point that I really getting into more of a review than suggestion. There is a reason for this no back story in the first issues, you're reading it. Like I mentioned before Grifter is getting a complete clean slate here and we are following it at the same time he is experiencing it. Each incident he experiences let's you in on a little more to him.

From what happened to him, why he is on the run from these alien forces as well as civilian ones. And upcoming issues (As of this post Issue 3 will be coming out.) We will find out how he got these other handy if also fatal skills he has shown off so far. There are times we need to realize that not every character, even your favorites, will be well known enough that they don't need an origin arc.

6. So, I read this, read the book and I still didn't like it. Now what smart guy?

Well, that's it for you, I may be able to suggest things and argue my points to yours, but if you don't like the book for your own reasons then there is nothing for us to argue about. Really though if one or two people read this and maybe picks up the book based on my suggestion and enjoys it than great! If not, hey I tried right. If you want a book to continue you support it the best way you can.

If you take any thing from this, besides the fact I ramble, is that to give this book a try. Heck even if it is in a trade paperback form, a try is what this book deserves. Who knows you may end up liking it like I have.

Who Would Win Halloween 2011

2011-10-29T16:38:00.002-05:00

The Myth of Jumping on Points

2011-10-25T19:46:00.000-05:00

How many have heard the phrase, "This [Insert Title Here] is a perfect jumping on point!" But, is there such a thing as a perfect jumping on point? Is there even a thing called a jumping on point to begin with? Well, I know the that all comic book companies have tried in some fashion or another to bring in readers and more often that phase above follows it. Let's look at a few cases here.

POINT ONE

Marvel has been pushing a system they have called 'Point One' and earlier in the year that attached this concept to a good amount of their titles. A lot of these were one and done stories to try and introduce the reader, hopefully new, into following the book into the new stories. Except there is a bit of a problem in this logic. Case in point close to the bottom is 'Secret Avenger' a book I have been following since issue one which is still a relatively new book, less than a year old by the time of this system. If a new reader looked and maybe the name caught their eye and picked it up they would still need something close knowledge of recent history to understand the team. Why Steve Rodgers wasn't Captain America at that moment, why was Beast on the team, what this team was even suppose to be about. Now, if the reader did enjoy the issue they could read back to catch up, but if the reader was confused then it seemed like a wasted opportunity.

Also, the point one system seems to be there not to show off and bring the readers in, it seems more like preview books for the next upcoming event Marvel is pushing for, in this case for these books some lead to "Fear Itself", "Spider Island", and "Schism". Also Marvel is moving a Point One one shot that does that, previews all the upcoming story lines that will lead to their next big event. At least this time all collected into one book.

BRAND NEW #1

Do you remember when you heard the news of that DC comics was basically starting over and releasing all New #1s of 52 comics? It was another day the comic blogosphere exploded. But, again here is that phase coming in that this is a jumping on point. Everything is starting from the very beginning, see #1, the start, not #950! And yes the idea of a new reader more willing to pick up a #1 over a greater number may be slightly true, to again say this is a perfect jumping on point doesn't seem to work.

It may work for characters like Superman, Batman, and Wonder Woman. Those are characters people already know about to an extent. But looking through the list of titles, Captain Atom, Blackhawks, Voodoo, and others well, unless you already had some time reading or knowing those characters the likely hood they will be picked up is a bit less than that of the big three I already named. Not to mention Green Lantern books are not so new reader friendly as you still need to know about past events to understand a lot if not all of what is going on.

Now there is a slight flaw in the argument I know, these books were still picked up for the curiosity factor surrounding the whole universe getting removed and the dust blown off like an old NES game, but even with out that new number ones while having a better chance to get looked at still need some basic knowledge for the readers.

THE MINI SERIES

Readers of this blog and Videos know I am a huge Atomic Robo fan for the clever writing, stories, and the art work. And the creators have done something different than their main stream counter parts. Every Atomic Robo series is a stand alone Mini Series, basically meaning once this story is over that's it they move on to the next adventure. There is no order to the the trades collection, you can pick up volume three reader it, then go to volume one, and then jump all the way over to volume five and have yourself a good old time. It is almost close to calling them a TV show season than a mini series. And frankly it gets the job done.

Of course though that is once the series is collected in trade paper back form. If there is one flaw to this is that there are now several single issues of several different series running around in comic shop bins and if one isn't careful you may pick up #1 of Atomic Robo Dogs of War and then pick up #2 of The Deadly Art of Science by mistake. But, out of all of two styles this one has more pro's than cons for looking up a Jumping on point. But, it is still not perfect.

IS THERE A PERFECT SYSTEM?
From looking at just these three, no there is not a perfect system, frankly there may never be. That won't stop companies from trying though and pushing out the phase mention at the start of all of this. I think a lot of this came about because so often the biggest comic readers have used this system of, "Buy it, Read it, see if you like it." mentality to people who often asked for recommendations of how to start, as if buying comics is like trying on jeans at Target. And while that may work for current readers and old readers trying to get back in new readers it is harder. Should companies stop trying then if each system has flaws? Of course not, with out trying to get new readers in some way the industry would have died long ago. But, perhaps there shouldn't be projected as PERFECT.

Laid Back Comics Reads: The New DC Universe Week 4

2011-10-01T15:49:00.000-05:00

Laid Back Comics Reads: The New DC Universe Week 3

2011-09-24T15:26:00.000-05:00

Laid Back Comics Reads: The New DC Universe Week 2

2011-09-17T20:05:00.000-05:00

Laid Back Comics Reads: The New DC Universe Week 1

2011-09-10T17:14:00.000-05:00

Laid Back Comics Reads: Justice League #1

2011-09-02T20:10:00.000-05:00

Huffer and The Question #21: New Face, Same Foe?

2011-08-16T16:34:00.001-05:00

READ MORE!

Who Would Win? Captain America vs SuperPatriot

2011-07-21T10:52:00.002-05:00

Nerd to the Third Power: How Long is too Long?

2011-06-30T21:36:00.000-05:00

Ep 47: How Long is Too Long?

On today's show we ask the question how long is too long to look at a concept, show, game franchise before going to dust it off and continue or take another look at it. From Tron Legacy, to Duke Nukem Forever, and even The Justice League Cartoon.

Nerd to the Third Power: Green Lantern (The Movie)

2011-06-24T12:26:00.000-05:00

Ep 46 Green Lantern

This is a very fun and very odd show were we talk about Green Lantern and each give our thoughts on the movie.

Nerd to the Third Power: E3 2011

2011-06-17T13:05:00.000-05:00

Ep 45: E3 2011

This week on the Podcast Roo has returned from E3 and we discuss the what he saw and what might be coming in the future, also Wii U is fun to say.

Nerd to the Third Power: X-Men First Class

2011-06-10T13:20:00.000-05:00

Ep 44 X-Men First Class

On today's show we talk about the new movie X-Men First Class starting Nazi Kevin Bacon

Nerd to the Third Power: Is Print Dead?

2011-06-03T11:01:00.000-05:00

Ep 43: Is Print Dead?

Today on the show, we are missing a few of our cast but we move on and ask the question of his print media dead? With magazines and news papers losing readers can the same be said for manga and comics? What are they doing to combat this or evolve to the next stage? Click the link to find out.

Everything Changes....Holy crap DC are changing it!

2011-06-01T20:53:00.001-05:00

Well, what to know something funny, I was asked by a friend of mine about the rumors of a massive change coming to DC comics after Flashpoint and I responded with a bit of hesitation saying along the lines they may renumber some books but I don't think anything will happen beyond that.

Well, I was wrong, I mean I was really wrong. I am the guy you point and laugh at for missing the daily double on Jeopardy I was so wrong. Because DC did just that, they said they are renumber 52 titles. (We have seen that number before) And then the first title annouced for it and given any sort of art work was Justice League written by Geoff Johns and art done by Jim Lee. With the roster of what I have heard a lot of people have wanted, Superman, Aquaman, Wonder Woman, Green Lantern, The Flash, Batman, and Cyborg.

And still no Wally!?

Now soon we have been hearing some other titles coming in like Bird of Prey minus Gail Simone, Teen Titians with ~~Fabian Nicieza~~, Hawkman with ~~James Robinson~~ Tony Daniel, Aquaman, Justice Society with a new team, Green Lantern, Superman with Grant Morrison (?), and now it also looks like Dective Comics and Batman will also get a new number one treatment. And that not counting the number of rumored books that have been swimming around in the ocean of the internet. This is a lot to try and take in the last few days the big question to this is now what?

WHAT OF THE PAST?

Now that we looking at all these new number ones a lot of people have been asking what about the long running titles, Action Comics, Adventure, and Dective? Is it a bad for those titles to be coming back down to 1? Some think so, considered it disrespectful to those titles to be taken back down. Though, some have countered that this could be a good for new readers to jump in on. If a new reader wants to pick up Batman might stop and see number 700 on the title and be scared he have to look through that many back issues to find out what was going on. Honestly I am a bit cynical with this as I know deep down the moment a big landmark is coming it, those titles will be reverted to that. It has happened before.

WHAT OF THE FUTURE?

Nothing stopping this from happen now though, unless this is one major prank pulled off, so what can we look forward to? Well, we can look forward to a slew of new costumes for a lot of characters, (Like 50!). Not to mention different creative teams oblisouly and you know that excites me a little bit. I love to see what a different new writer and artist can do with a title and characters. Then we have to find out about the rest of the new titles or renumbered titles coming out. We still don't have the full list yet.

And that bothers me a bit we are calling to the failure of this when we don't have all the information in our hands yet. Are we getting a reboot like Crisis on Infinite Earths? Or is this renumbers with out too many changes besides maybe costumes. We need to really wait and see what is coming out or in some cases not coming back.

Is this good-bye?

FINALE THOUGHT

And that is my point a bit, we need to wait and see where this is all going, this is new for a lot of us. I missed Crisis on Infinite Earths when it first came out (I was three at the time). I have never experienced this and sit on the edge of my sit to see what will happen. And I want this to be successful in the worst way, not just as a DC fan but as a comic fan in general. Maybe a kick in the pants to bring readers back into shops to start reading again. And this could kick start something for everyone, because the more people coming in to shops means even the smallest of titles will be seen by new eyes. Titles for Marvel, IDW, Dynamite, Boom!, Image, Dark Horse, and many others will get that little extra exposer with this, if it works that is.

But enough of the ranting for the time, I need to return to the waiting game too see what I may be picking up by the time September comes around. But, if anything I do have one request from DC if anyone there reads this. (Hey one can dream right). My request is this....A magically Justice League title written by Matt Sturges and Bill Willingham.

Best magic show cast ever!

Do that and you got me on day one first in line!

Laid Back Comics Reads: Mega Man #1

2011-05-30T16:21:00.004-05:00

He's a super fighting robot from the year 200X, and now he returns to comics to show off his adventures. Is this first issue of the new series going to live up to game it is based off of? Or are we looking at a another loss in the column of video game comics? Let's find out.

READ MORE!

Nerd to the Third Power: The Sony Affair

2011-05-26T22:03:00.000-05:00

Episode 42: The Sony Affair

Not a lot of comic talk this week as the gang heads to look back at the recent dealings with Sony. From codes, to the PSN hack and what may be in store in the future for Sony.

Laid Back Comics Reads: Justice Society of America #50

2011-05-14T17:12:00.000-05:00

With all the news of Action Comics #900 there was another anniversary issue that came out but seems to have fallen through the cracks. Good thing I am a fan or else you might not have heard about this. But, was this issue any good or should I have let it slip away? Watch and find out.

READ MORE!

Nerd to the Third Power: THOR!

2011-05-13T12:30:00.000-05:00

Hey everyone now that blogger is back on-line I can finally tell everyone the good news that not too long ago I auditioned for a role as a comic book correspondent for a podcast. And as luck would have it they liked me and brought me on. This is my debut of the Multiverse Headlines for Nerd to the Third Power and this week we discuss THOR the movie.

Nerd to the Third EP 41: THOR!

Happy Free Comic Book Day 2011!

2011-05-07T11:28:00.000-05:00

It is that time year again everyone! It is Free Comic book day! First Saturday in May where comic companies give us a taste of their books or a preview of what may come. It is a great time to head out to your local comic book shop to hang out with friends and sometimes meet creators of your favorite books. So one question remains, what did you pick up?

Action Comics #900 and The 'Story'

2011-04-30T18:18:00.001-05:00

If you are reading this and don't know what I mean by the 'Story' then you haven't bought Action Comics #900 or haven been reading the news on the local comics sites all around the internet. So if that is the case let me help out a bit. For updates check out these links:

Comics Alliance :Superman Renounces U.S. Citizenship in 'Action Comics' #900
Newsarama: Superman Renounces US Citizenship in ACTION COMICS #900
Robot6 From Comic Book Resources: Internet explodes over Superman renouncing America

After reading through those you might get to what has been people up in arms over the recent back up story that was written by comic book/movie writer David Goyer, with the panel up above traveling through the internet faster Flash traveling through time. Now unlike a lot of people I still haven't read the story in question because I am an idiot and didn't reserve my copy. So while I still don't full yet know the context of this people have been more than willing to try and explain it to me, (Even if I never asked.) So some spoilers ahead.

Superman is speaking to an advisor of the President and they are very upset. There was a protest going on in Tehran that Superman wanting to show support for one of the sides, I imagine the ones wanting freedom and all of that, showed up and....that's it he showed up. He didn't hit anyone or do anything he was there for support. Though one could argue that him showing up might have also prevented major violence from breaking out. But, the Iranian government started to say that Superman was only there on orders from the United States and what he could have done was an act of war.

Superman understood that he should have been more careful that something like this would happen putting even more people at risk. So he say he is going to go to the UN and renounce his US citizenship so that he will no longer be seen as a tool for US Foreign policy. This has had a almost violent reaction among fans and non-fans alike. Articles, Blogs, and message boards have been spilling over with how they feel about this.

Conservative Blog Hot Air put up a few quotes and then tried to connect this item to that of Marvel's Civil War.

"The idea of the White House standing by and doing nothing while protests rock Iran is, admittedly, extremely plausible. So is the idea of a superhero suddenly breaking ties in an act of conscience: That was, after all, the basic storyline of the “Civil War” series in which Captain America was assassinated after opposing the feds’ anti-secret-identity registration law. (He was later resurrected and went on to heroicallybattle the tea party.) Comics writers have also toyed with Superman’s image as a quintessentially American hero, most famously in the “Red Son” alternate reality. This is a more modest tweak on that idea, and intriguing insofar as his disaffection stems from American paralysis towards Middle East tyrants. I wonder how Supes felt about Saddam."
"Exit question: Isn’t the real travesty here the fact that Superman somehow ended up facing off nonviolently against Iranian fundamentalist goons? Regime change ain’t going to happen with sit-ins, baby. You’re invulnerable; throw some boulders at them or something."

And then we have this quote floating around from Jim Lee and Dan Didio co-publishers

"In a short story in ACTION COMICS 900, Superman announces his intention to put a global focus on his never ending battle, but he remains, as always, committed to his adopted home and his roots as a Kansas farm boy from Smallville."

But, the reactions have been the thing I have mostly seen from people, take this thread from the comic section of TGWTG.

"Words fail me as to how stupid this is."

"That reminds me... I really need to get that Paul Dini/Alex Ross book, The World's Greatest Superheroes. So I can have something to hit David Goyer with."

"Words fail me as to how this action is not only foolish, but also how pointless it is. Even really stupid decisions can still have an impact, but this, this is just nonsense for the sake of melodrama and political nonsense."

Those are only a few statements of a almost all negative thread which has mirrored others around the web, but not everyone seems to agree with the statement that this was in fact a bad move, some are welcoming this and wants to see where this might lead to for the Man of Steel like Jordan Jennings of Comic Book Revolution had this to say to me on Twitter.

"I don't see it being political but more social. They could go into what does the American Way mean"

"and if you are no longer American do you stand for those ideals?"

"I think DC has something here that could easily be the defining Superman story of the decade."

"It could become, oddly enough, the next What's So Funny About Truth, Justice, and American Way"

And he isn't the only one feeling this could in fact be an new way to look at Superman. True the angry voices are differently the louder in this case the more you look through the blogs and websites. The thing is we all know that Superman is willing to save anyone period, that is what he is about, the whole stance of him as a Superhero. Along with his stances on what Justice is and Freedom, items he tries to hold up and spread to people. Sure along they way he battles a few alien invasions and maybe a talking gorilla or two, but he does it because he wants to protect people, not just American people all people.

We have seen him get upset when he wasn't allow to do that, or angry and sad the rare times he failed. For me the idea of Superman wanting to protect the world and if that means by renouncing his US Citizenship to do it is fine. He isn't renouncing his values of what he learned when growing up in Smallville, but they way I read it he wised up that his actions could lead to people getting hurt and that is the last thing he wants. So he so he removes the handcuffs himself and from and now his actions, in theory, wouldn't draw retaliation against the people of the United States.

So yeah there is a part of me that feels, "Hey this is really a neat idea, it could be something kind of cool." And also the slight cynic anti-political side of me winces at the story. So I honestly will not know until I can read the story in context, but I also need to remind people that you have to remember this is a back up story from the #900 issue. There is no evidence so far that this story will even be followed up on in the near future.

Right now on DC Blog the Source the only thing mentioned about Action Comics is the Reign Doomsday Storyline they are pushing. And with David Goyer not looking like he will come back to comics anytime soon, since this was his story, I just get the feeling we won't have a resolution or continuation. Some may say that's good and other will point out this is a missed opportunity to explore a bit more of Superman.

And we also have to look at something else, the way the story was written, perhaps a poor choices of words or dialog has sparked something in people and was taken the wrong way. That I could see, that would make sense for how a lot of this seems to have spun out of control, epically for people who haven't read Superman in a long to or even ever.

For me, I am confident that I know how Superman works and US Citizen or not he is Superman and nothing is going to change the fundamental principals he has learned and tried to spread around the world. So I like to leave the final word to Paul Connell, the current writer of Action Comics.Which I feels best sums up this whole event.

"I joyfully await the day when comics fans would prefer to talk about the story rather than the controversy."

UPDATE: So apparently DC is saying this is now a non-cannon story. So....now what?

Who Would win #12: Superman vs The Sentry

2011-04-20T16:13:00.000-05:00

It's the battle of the Supermen in this Who Would Win Entry! Will the Man of Steel melt under the power of the exploding suns? Or is The Sentry going to wuss out yet again? Watch and find out!

READ MORE!

Laid Back Comics Reads: Secret Avengers Mission to Mars

2011-03-24T18:29:00.004-05:00

It is the start of the Heroic Age and Steve Rodgers, the first Captain America, is looking to clean up the place.But he needs help, Secret help. Putting together a team he sets out to right the wrongs...on Mars?!

READ MORE!

Laid Back Comics Reviews: DC Showcase Green Arrow

2011-03-11T16:21:00.000-06:00

Part 4 of 4 of the DC Showcase Shorts, today is the Archer supremo, Green Arrow. Will his short be the only one off target or is this a bullseye!

READ MORE!

Huffer and The Question #19: Help Arrives!

2011-03-01T20:49:00.000-06:00

READ MORE!

RIP Dwayne McDuffie

2011-02-22T15:04:00.003-06:00

It comes as a major shock today as I returned from my trip to pick up the latest DC Animated Film that I hear the sad news the writer Dwayne McDuffie Has Past away from unknown reasons. I give my heartfelt condolences to his friends and family. Dwayne McDuffie has been a major part of my life and love for the DC animated world and will be missed, the world needs fun, smart, and progressive thinkers like him.

Laid Back Comics Reads: Infestation #1

2011-02-03T17:49:00.001-06:00

Holy Crossovers Batman, BAC takes a look at IDW first mega-event staring The Transformers, G.I. Joe, Star Trek, and Ghostbusters. But, does it live up to hype around it or maybe this wasn't such a good idea.

READ MORE!

Huffer and The Question #18: Who said they were alone?

2011-02-02T18:43:00.000-06:00

READ MORE!

Huff And The Question #17: Bad guys agree Clowns will always be creepy

2011-02-02T18:40:00.000-06:00

READ MORE!

Huffer And The Question #16: Faster! Faster! You fool! You fool!

2011-02-02T18:38:00.000-06:00

READ MORE!

My Journey through the DC Universe.....ONLINE!

2011-01-30T12:55:00.006-06:00

Now I have to admit I have only played two MMOs in my life. City of Heroes and City of Villains, true some would say those are two different MMOs and well there is a good chance they would be right. But, if you noticed a pattern they revolve around Superheroes. So when it was announced that DC was getting into the game a part of me was excited and also nervous at the results.

Time went on, videos were shown, Screen shots taken, developers were interviewed, and the game was delayed. There was a lot riding on this, DC hasn't been known for having a good record when it comes to video games adaptations that didn't deal with Batman. So when the game came out I headed out and picked it up for the PS3. (since I didn't trust my slightly old computer being able to run it.) So what is the fail verdict? Well, let me introduce you to Mega PRIME!

Sorry for the odd picture, I don't have the ability to take screen shots for my PS3.

Mega PRIME (Yes I have to type like that.) Is my Level 30 telekinetic with hand blasters weapons and mentored by Batman. He flys about Gotham taking the fight to the villains with his catch phrase, "Mega PRIME!" as he lifts them up with his mind. He is a bit of a silly character, but hey get to have fun is half the battle.

This has by far been one of the most fun I have had recently with a game based on the DC Universe. The style is more action and combo oriented than the normal point click and attack from other MMOs. But, what does really stand out and what is brining me back to make even more characters is the story lines you follow and the ability to play with and against characters in the DC Universe. In my earliest missions I team up with Batwoman and then later Nightwing, fighting against Scarecrow and Bane. I fought Clayface and legion of Joker henchmen to save the Gotham PD. Took down Deathstorke to protect the Riddler who had vital information. I went to Area 51, Gorilla Island, and The Moon to fight for truth Justice and the American way. I travel around Gotham visiting sites with the help of Booster Gold kiosks seeing sites like Wayne Tech and Crime ally (With the two rose memorial where Batman's parents were killed.) Not to mention the Pillars of Hades rising up in one of the parks. I found that shocking at first but then I remember...I was in Gotham so it makes sense. And were else could I team up with The Rocketeer to fight the Sinestro Corp? No where.

Now, there are some draw backs like voice chat seems to be buggy so if you wish to chat you have to type which either means hooking up a USB keyboard or getting that mini-keyboard for your PS3 controller. But, there are other better ways around this problem. (Most people have Skype now anyway). And there is some missions that do seem to bit on the harder side when doing them. But, all of these haven't stopped me and many others to really enjoy the game and wanting more.

So if you are a DC fan, heck if you are a comic book fan I think DC Universe Online is a great and I am so happy to see it be Successful and can't wait for more stories. So if you are running around and see me, drop in and say hi.

"MEGA PRIME!"

UPDATE: A few have asked me about the creation of Mega PRIME and while I did create the legend's look, credit must also go out to a friend of mine, Katia from http://gmoza.blogspot.com/, she had brought up the name and help create in a way the personality of him. Well, in her backseat gaming Mega PRIME dropped this gem, "Mega PRIME don't need your help woman!" to which placed in stone how the hero would act forever. So many thanks to her for that.

Laid Back Comics Reviews: DC Showcase Jonah Hex

2011-01-24T19:09:00.001-06:00

BAC continues his journey into the DC Showcase shorts, Today is the the wild west anti-hero Jonah Hex. Will this animated short end up failing like the box office brother. Or will Hex ride into the sunset head held high?

READ MORE!

Wheelchair for Oracle

2011-01-20T15:42:00.001-06:00

Just try and hack my systems!

Gail Simone at her Blog has asked the fans to help her find a wheelchair for the much loved Barbara Gorden. Well, I think I got something for her that would send fear into the hearts of villains!

I could see a nice rocket launcher added here.

How do you like them apples Gail!? Or better yet...

Now only if it could fly.

It is a wheelchair and a car. You can called it the Oracl-mobile, you can place in all types of neat gadgets, maybe it's own Wi-Fi router to log in on the go. So what do you have to say about these suggestions?

"What I want to, and it’s way past time, is to update her chair, and to make it a consistent, reasonable design, that is still not hugely obtrusive."

Oh......

The Avengers Earth's Mightiest Heroes: Is a frustrating show

2011-01-08T16:31:00.000-06:00

The Avengers has been a staple in Marvel for decades, but can you believe this is only the second time they have made a show/cartoon about them? Back in the Early 90s they tried to make a show for Fox kids that failed badly. Mostly due to bad writing, bad character designs, and the removal of Iron Man, Thor, and Captain America from the line up and replaced with 'guest spots'.

Fast Forward to 2010 and news broke that that a new Show of the Avengers was going to be made and shown on Disney XD. The line up consisted of the stables of Avengers members, Iron Man, Thor, Captain America, Giant Man/Ant Man/Yellow Jacket/Douchbag Hank Pym, Wasp, Hawkeye and the Hulk. The also included Black Panther into the line up giving this a well rounded cast that looked really good. And in countdown to the show's official debut they put together these 'mini-soides' to introduce the characters and story lines to the audience. Honestly, things were looking good and the show debuted with a two parter of a massive villain break out of not one but three High Security prisons. It was a good start, so why am I frustrated? It is simple, it's the characters. All most all of them seem really off in some why.

Let's start with Iron Man, they have set up Tony Stark much like how he has become in all mediums, a genius inventory trying to make up for his past as a weapons manufacturer and also using being Iron Man to stop other evil groups (Mostly A.I.M) from using his tech for their purpose. All the while throwing out Spider-Man like wisecracks while leading the team. Some are asking what is the problem? Isn't he suppose to be a short of likable asshole? Yes, but he is coming off as a douche-bag and no one likes a douche-bag.

Case in point, in the episode "Everything is Wonderful" we see the creation of Wonder Man by AIM because he has grown distraught over his company failing under the powerhouse that is Stark Industries. But, he tries to speak to Tony over this as he noticed Tony was buying up his stock, Tony calmly tells him he has become the major shareholder. Well upset Wonder Man storms out and Tony barely tries to stop him to explain what he wants to do. It turns out he wants to bring him under Stark Industries so he can continue his work. See this seems like a good thing. Except for the fact if this was very important he should have told him before hand or you know when he was in the office. Instead he spends his time messing with his suit.

Well this leads to Wonder Man getting his powers and goes on a rampage to try and kill Tony. But, his powers were unstable and he 'dies' at the end. What was Tony's reaction to all of this, he acts like he just lost an potential employee and money maker. Good job Tony...douche.

Hank Pym and Wasp also is frustrating in more or less the story line of their relationship at least I think there is one. We are never given an idea if they are friends, dating, married, or what have you. There is almost details over them and when it happens it feels like it is coming out of no where. They mentioned it in one of the mini-soides and then almost never see it again till Episode titled "459". Which was the 15th episode in the season. If I wasn't a comic reader I would have forgotten about that plot point by now. Personality wise they are as bad, Hank loves everything science and Wasp wants excitement and adventure.

Thor and Hulk seem to only be there as go punch stuff here or use lighting there. They both have had some good stand out moments, but only when the rest of the team is not involved in some way. Other wise they have been pushed as supporting characters. Like for Hulk in the recent "Gamma World Part 2". But, he needed to have everyone but Hawkeye removed to get any spot light. Thor stand out moment was back in "Break Out Part 2", the second episode of the season and as of writing this we are at episode 17. That is a long drought.

Really the only two characters that have been written well at all have been Captain America and the Black Panther. They have Cap spot on with the solider out of time wanting to continuing fighting the good fight. Black Panther is their rouge of the group mostly runs off to do his own thing and gets the job done in the process. And I think I like these two because they don't seem to put up with Iron Man's crap as the leader. Hell, these two guys with Hawk Eye took down a whole Hydra base in one episode. A three vs 300 moment, while the rest of the team often struggles with even the most obscure villain or henchman. It also didn't help that when Captain America was found and freaked out a bit he single handedly took down all the members of the team before knowing they were the good guys. And few episodes later Panther did it as well. Honestly those two don't need help from anyone, the two of them could do it no problem.

Now here is the thing, this isn't really what I would be called a bad show. There are saving graces to the show that has great potential. One of those is the story-lines and action of the show. The plots are well put together, there are some over arching plots that you do want to see finish, and the animation used for the action is fluid and looks good. If it wasn't for those I couldn't see this show going into a second season.

So there you go, while this is steps beyond the 90s version and has had some awesome moments in it. It is one of the most frustrating things I have watched just because I know it could be so much better. Well, lets finish up this season and look forward to season 2. Who knows it could easily improve.

formspring.me

2010-12-31T14:11:00.001-06:00

Ask me anything http://formspring.me/BAClend

Marry Christmas from Laid Back Comics.

2010-12-24T01:00:00.001-06:00

Holiday Review: Project Superpowers X-Mas Carol

2010-12-23T16:31:00.002-06:00

Who Would Win? Giant Robot Robot Battle #2

2010-12-11T11:49:00.000-06:00

Can the efforts of the Protectobots win in an battle against the Power Rangers Light Speed Megazord? Watch and find out!

And there was a plan for a Captain America cartoon

2010-12-10T23:43:00.000-06:00

Youtube is a wonderful place at times. Look at this a promo for a Never made Captain America cartoon. Looks like it was going to take place in WWII with Bucky. What could have been.

Transformers 3: Dark of the Moon Teaser

2010-12-08T20:24:00.001-06:00

Hmmm....Now I do realize I am about to open a can of worms just mentioning the Transformers live action films by Michael Bay. It seems you get two different camps for the movies, one of acceptance of their existents and the other fueled with hate that would make a sith lord happy. I fall into the first, while I enjoyed the first movie and sections of the second I have to admit they are riddled with problems as well. But, dispite the reactions to the movies they both turned to be very successful at the box office. So naturally they were going to try and get a third one going.

Now above is the teaser trailer for said third film and well, damn it despite my convictions and fears I can't help but get a little excited by it. Maybe it is the Transformers fan boy inside of me that jumps up and down when ever I see anything related to Transformers come out. Or maybe because this teaser was just better set up than the first two. It could be a number of things really.

Now will the third movie some how fix the problems of the first two? Will we get more of the 'humor'? More of the action? More humans less robots? More robots less humans? How will Shockwave look? Who was the bot in the last moment of the teaser? Will the internet exploded of hate again? Will I even see this one? I don't know the answers to these question, save the last two which is yes.

You might call me a masochist because of my wanting to see it, well so be it. But, I will do the same I did last time and keep an open mind about it and hope for the best. Who knows, third times the charm right?

Vlog- GI Joe Renegades/Transformers Prime/Young Justice

2010-12-01T20:37:00.000-06:00

Part 1: GI Joe and Transformers Prime

Part 2 Young Justice

Giving Thanks

2010-11-24T17:29:00.000-06:00

Thing I am thankful for this year.

1. Comics Exists
2. The internet exists
3. Someone invented the blog
4. And I am able to combine all of those items and discuses, review, and share with people.

For the more serious time I am thankful for my family and able to travel and visit with them. I hope everyone is doing the same, or at the very most able to spend with friends or anyone. And so in closing enjoy the rest of the week and see you all again soon.

Laid Back Comics Reviews: DC Showcase The Specter

2010-11-20T18:35:00.002-06:00

Laid Back Comics Reviews: Superman/Shazam Return of Black Adam

2010-11-13T11:20:00.002-06:00

SHAZAM!

Huffer And The Question #15: Always come Prepared

2010-11-09T10:49:00.001-06:00

READ MORE!

Laid Back Comics Reads: Superboy #1 and Captain America Man Out of Time #1

2010-11-05T21:28:00.000-05:00

Who Would Win: Halloween 2010 The Joker vs The Green Goblin

2010-10-29T15:45:00.000-05:00

Huff and The Question #14: He's Batman

2010-10-20T22:27:00.000-05:00

READ MORE!

Comics Prices Hik....I mean Drop?

2010-10-07T23:58:00.001-05:00

So I am sitting here on my couch catching up on some C.O.P.S Volume 2 and surfing the comic news sites when I noticed both Newsarama and Comic Book Resources showing stories of comic prices. Some readers would have noticed last several months the discussion of comic book prices has been a bit uneven. At one time Marvel had increased a good percent of their books to $3.99. DC followed slowly along, but in a neat twist offered back up stories to those books with price increases as a way of supplementing the reader with the feeling they were getting two stories for the price. An idea I liked and Marvel too would try out as well.

But, the hike was ill planned on both parties part as they did it right as the recession was hitting it peak. Not to mention when talking to one of the employees at my Local Comic Shop he predicted that the next price hike would go to the trades. And he had a point go look at some of the Deluxe hardcovers of series, they rang from $25-$35. Now as a business major watching this I wonder how the market would react to a lot of this. How many would drop books because they couldn't afford it any more.

So when I first say these articles dealing with prices I had a bit of sinking feeling that they would either stay they way they are or increase again. Seems though I was wrong on both counts as Marvel and DC are going to returning majority of titles to the $2.99 prices.
READ MORE!

Laid Back Comics Watches: Scooby-Doo Meets Batman

2010-10-06T23:00:00.004-05:00

Vlog- Superman/Batman Apocalypse

2010-09-30T01:08:00.001-05:00

Good-Bye Wildstorm....Good-Bye Wild C.A.T.S.

2010-09-21T17:56:00.002-05:00

It is a bit of a sad day in the comic book world. There were several announcement in DC comics about moving the Entertainment section to LA. Which makes a bit of sense seeing that is were Warner is located and they would be able to help focuses on expanding movie and television. No the other news is that from Newsarama DC is shutting down Wildstorm imprint.

Good-bye.

This sucks for a good deal, though I haven't read a lot of Wildstorm in the last year or so, I really enjoyed the title of WildC.A.T.S. when it came over from Image to Wildstorm. To know that there won't be any new titles from that well it depression, almost as depressing as finding out that there would never be an issue two of Grant Morrison/Jim Lee WildC.A.T.S. series. Now I hear that the characters aren't fully gone for good, but I don't think it would be a good idea to fold them into the main DC Universe, so let's hope for new Universe for these characters to be in. Well guys, it was fun while it lasted. Let's leave you with this.

Hmmm, maybe this wasn't the best of ideas....

Interviews Matthew Sturges

2010-09-18T23:14:00.001-05:00

Don't forget to check out some of his works.

Who Would Win #10 Iron Man Vs. Lex Luthor

2010-09-17T07:43:00.000-05:00

Huffer And The Question #13: Yes...Yes it is.

2010-09-15T20:14:00.000-05:00

READ MORE!

The New Man With Out Fear!

2010-09-15T14:27:00.001-05:00

IS THE BLACK PANTHER.

So from the 'News show' G4 Attack of the Show, it was announced that Black Panther is taking over as the Hell's Kitchen guardian. And what does this comic fan have to say about it? Cool. Yeah that's it cool. Why not? The Black Panther has been a pretty steady well written character for years. Now I am very interested in how he will fit into the role as the Urban hero, but I don't doubt that he will fit the role well. Truth be told out of the character they were teasing to take over the role Black Panther really is the only one that made sense. Well, him and Falcon would be the only logical choices.

So there you go, The New Man With Out Fear. Let's hope it lasts.

Who Would Win #9: Deadshot Vs. Bullseye

2010-09-04T19:37:00.000-05:00

Vlog- Scott Pilgrim Vs. The World

2010-08-23T14:33:00.006-05:00

Huffer and The Question #12: Can't find good droids anymore.

2010-08-09T00:46:00.000-05:00

READ MORE!

TBET Show with an special guest, ME!

2010-08-06T12:01:00.000-05:00

Huffer and The Question #11: Back to....Work?

2010-08-02T17:59:00.000-05:00

READ MORE!

Changes are a foot Part 2!

2010-07-28T18:35:00.000-05:00

This time though nothing to do with the look of the blog, which I must say I am pretty happy about. No this comes form the real world, I won't be able to post up any new videos or reviews for a little bit as I am in the wonderful process of moving out of one apartment and into another.

So I will be busy moving and trying to set up the important things in life like internet. So thanks for those would put up with this and don't worry Laid Back Comics and 'Who Would Win?' will be coming back soon.

Laid Back Comics Reads: Wednesday Comics Part 3

2010-07-21T18:51:00.000-05:00

It is the last part of the Wednesday Comics series. Will it leave up to the first half or crash into the ground?

AMAZON Link:Wednesday Comics

Laid Back Comics goes to San Japan 3

2010-07-12T21:03:00.002-05:00

Vlog- The Last Airbender

2010-07-12T18:44:00.010-05:00

To check out the real and better story pick up the DVD sets.

Huffer and The Question #10: There on a Mission from Primus!

2010-07-04T15:20:00.001-05:00

READ MORE!

There are some changes a foot!

2010-07-03T12:06:00.000-05:00

Nothing big mind you, as you can see I have been trying to update the look of my blog to give it a new feel. So please bear with me as I will be tweaking it next few days to make sure it is right.

Wonder Woman #600 and New Costume?

2010-06-29T19:38:00.000-05:00

Well, place this in the did not see coming pile, posted on DC Blog The Source Diana is getting a new costume in her up coming #600 issue of her series. This is help continue the celebration of DC 75th anniversary going on the last few weeks. Now it was announced not too long ago thanks to a postcard drive that Wonder Woman's issue number was going to change to the 600, but I don't think anyone could have guessed she was going to change costumes, let alone one designed by Jim Lee. And looking at it well...this is a bit of a change.

Now this isn't the first change Wonder Woman has gone through if you compare her first costume to her latest you can see one change, the fact she lost the skirt. She lost it a long time ago, so long that the costume on the right is considered the most iconic one. So the question should they change such an iconic costume? Ask me any time and I would honestly tell you no you shouldn't. But, at the same time it is nice to see a woman is so, best way to put it covered up. I realize the statement coming from me sounds odd, after all I made a boob joke at Power Girl in one of my videos, but it is true. Now, should they do it to such an iconic character...I can't answer that.

Over the years it seems like comic creators try to make female heroes be more real in terms of costumes. When Supergirl first showed up in the current costume there were many who felt she was under dressed. But, it wasn't that long ago that the editors made Supergirl were shorts under her skirt so she isn't flashing everyone when she flies and her skirt has slowly been growing to a more reasonable length. But, then you see Donna Troy's slowly loosing fabric around her chest for the last few years. (Frankly I liked her red and yellow costume.)

So is the change good? I can't say. Do I like it? Well, to be honest it is not that bad of a costume, a bit darker than I would like. Not to mention it looks like she needs some shoes as she is just wearing pull over pants. But, from what I can tell already the backlash is hitting the wall. Maybe they should have giving this to Donna or Cassie instead. One thing I can tell, this is going to be one interesting ride.

Laid Back Comics Reads: Wednesday Comics Part 2

2010-06-28T15:21:00.003-05:00

In part two BAC looks at the next five stories of this title and hits a bump in the road.
READ MORE!

Vlog- Texas Comicon 2010

2010-06-20T17:48:00.000-05:00

Myself and Giant Chris spent a Saturday at the Texas Comicon and here was the results.

READ MORE!

It's Wednesday!

2010-06-16T14:01:00.001-05:00

Which means New Comics Day! I picked up the Red Robin trade I have been missing out on. And a new d10 which I lost. So what did you pick up?

LBC Reads Wednesday Comics Part 1

2010-06-06T18:06:00.002-05:00

It is time to jump into the weekly series of Wednesday comics. In this spoiler free review I take a look at the stories of the most interesting weekly series to date.

READ MORE!

Huffer And The Question #9: Poor Planing on Huffer's Part.

2010-06-03T15:30:00.003-05:00

READ MORE!

Who Would Win #8: Green Lantern Vs. Silver Surfer

2010-05-24T20:45:00.000-05:00

Up into space my friends!

Huffer And The Question #8: Soundwaves?

2010-05-17T17:32:00.000-05:00

Stop with the Racism finger pointing.

2010-05-15T21:51:00.001-05:00

Look, for those of you who don't know there is an article from Comics Alliance (The Racial Politics of Regressive Storytelling) running around on the blogs mention the regression of menoirty legacy characters getting changed back to Silveraged counter-parts....who are white. And while the sub-point of the post is more about heroes getting killed for shock value or easy writing is something I can agree with. The part about the racism though I was finding a bit hard to believe. Main reason is because these characters that are getting replaced were Legacy heroes, meaning they were going to take over the name/power/place/what have you of the previous version. This lead to a few problems and the fact many of them were not accepted by the fans. Save for Jamie, The New Blue Beetle and Rene the new Question. So when they weren't accepted and fans called for the old heroes back, well it looks really bad.

Not to mention the timing of this post was amazingly scary when almost a week later Ryan Choi, the All New Atom, an Asian character was killed in the Titians: Villain for Hire Special. Which again is something I don't agree with, but is really the problem is that this fact has many fans up in arms calling racism to DC staff. And I want to say is to stop, Please!

Look we are all upset, but going out to call someone or a company racists is not something tossed around lightly. This is a serious accusation. What is scary is that now since this has spread like wildfire in the internet fourms and alike everyone with an ax to grind against DC comics is trying it's best to use this for more spotlight. Case in point a blog post at Bleeding Cool entitled The New Apartheid Of DC Comics. And if that title doesn't make you want to throw up something is wrong. I love comics but in NO WAY should the treatment of fictional characters should ever be compared to something as awful as the crime of Apartheid.

This is fan backlash that has grown out of control for the last few days and I hate to saw it but, going back to a post I made about The Shield we are a bit to blame for this. We were given these great characters, legacy or not, and we ignored them. Why, because we wanted our old heroes back. People wanted to old Firestorm since his death in Identity Crisis and people have been begging for Ted Kords return since Infinite Crisis, and most recently it seems there is a small growing voice for the return of Vic Sage as The Question.

Racism is awful, wrong, something I wish would be abolished from this planet. Has it appeared in comics before and in some cases recently, a sad true fact. There is no argument there. But, the blindly calling of it here is something that needs to stop. If this is about the recent killings of heroes and family members in comics that doesn't boost it, then that is the issue and point that out write to the offices and tell them the problem. Here is their mailing address.

DC Offices

1700 Broadway 7th Fl.

New York, NY 10019-5905

And if do think there is a racism problem, well I can't change you mind, but you know what? Do the same thing. Write to the DC offices and explain your frustrations or nervousness about these problems. Bringing these issues up in a calm reasonable fashion is the best way to get these issues looked at. If we can't do that, then we are doomed to forever repeat the cycle again and again.

Lack of Updates? Yeah My Bad.

2010-05-10T23:04:00.000-05:00

Sorry everyone with my falling off the face of the Earth, the real world caught up with me and thought I needed a good ass kicking. So yes after about 30 plus pages dealing with everything from Computer Hardware Industry, Dell, Mergers and Acquisition, and two project management reports college looks to be done with. Well, until June anyway where I well be taking my final class of college.

I feel bad that I haven't been able to give you guys more videos or hell even some sort of text reviews/reactions. It has been a hard last few months trying to deal with school and other things like my desktop not wanting to work right, (Though I think I found the fix and can have it running again soon.) To my Who Would Win concept swiped away from me recently, leaving little to zero chance getting picked up on a website. Leaving to think that I may not even continue the series now.

But, here I am just bitching and venting not really showing any resolve at all. And to make it sound like I am giving up everything is wrong, I don't want to, I honestly don't. I want to make these videos work and have them enjoyed. I love sharing my feelings on comics, trying to shed some positive light on those that at least deserve it or should be looked upon. I think that is what I might try and move back to. I lost track with this blog and my own personal projects. My writing has suffered, my small photo comic (Huffer and The Question) that I am really proud of has also suffered because I been trying to shape myself into a way the world (Real and Internet) wants to shape me.

Right now, I am at my soon to be former home in DC, getting things together and looking to a new beginning as my parents move out and I myself start making San Antonio my new home. Will I stop Who Would Win? That is up in the air, I had two really good match ups I still want to do or try to do. In the end I think a small recharge will be good, I need to get myself back into this.

Thanks to you all who read this blog and comment on it the fact I know there are people who enjoy my work does mean something.

Huffer and The Question #7: Always need the Theme!

2010-05-03T23:01:00.001-05:00

Happy Free Comic Book Day!

2010-05-01T15:40:00.003-05:00

What Did You Pick up?

Who Would Win? Giant Robot Battle #1

2010-04-08T20:54:00.002-05:00

Vehicle Voltron/Dairugger XV Collection 1

2010-04-04T15:04:00.003-05:00

It wasn't too long ago I went out and bought up the Voltron box sets for myself. I was a fan of this show as a child and couldn't wait to have to whole set to watch over again. And I wasn't the only one as wasn't long after the Lion sets came out that the next series also came out, Vehicle Voltron.

Now, I must be honest that I wasn't a fan of this show too much, I am not sure if it was because it was the more obvious edited of the two shows or I couldn't wrap my head around that it took 15 vehicles to make ONE robot.

Geeze, if just one of those things go down you are screwed. So in short I skipped those sets and went on with my life. Though my interest slowly started to grow, the group shows up in the Voltron Omnibus series I had and also in the Fleet of Doom "Movie" that came out recently. So I was out shopping one day and came by and noticed a DVD set with Vehicle Voltron on the cover but called Dairugger XV. Putting two and two I realized it was the original japanese version in all its unedited glory. Curiosity started to peak while looking at the set so the other day so I bought it.

Not thinking too much into it, I sat down with two of my friends to watch the first disc and we were having a great time poking some fun at it. And it had some real fun moments, then something strange happened. By episode three we suddenly noticed this series was....good. Really good! Shocking would also work. We expected the usually giant robot fighting show, but soon began to realize this was way more of a story character show than it was fighting robots. Hell, the pilots are a Survey team for exploration that was more or less pushed into soldier positions because of the enemy they meet.

Now it is a product of the 70s and there are just some funny moments and ones that make myself and my friends shake our heads in disbelief, like the fact the just launch cars into space like it is driving on a highway. Despite the silly moments it is a really good show that holds up well with age. Any fan of Voltron series American or Japanese should take a look at. Hell, I am already waiting for the second collection to be released now.

Huffer and The Question: PSA

2010-03-31T16:11:00.000-05:00

The Hammer hits The Shield and The Web

2010-03-23T11:26:00.001-05:00

You know when ever I hear comic fans talk either on the Internet or in real life I often hear the following, "When are [Insert Company Name] going to make a NEW character?" But, when I look at the comic landscape and see the characters titles that die, I know what they are really asking is not for new characters. But, for familiar characters with NEW solo-titles.

Today's case, the DC solicitation are out and two new characters titles are been canceled at issue #10. The Shield and The Web. And I can already hear the call of 'The Who?' from the readers. These two characters where a part of the Red Circle characters. 'The Red What?' OK, let's start from the beginning, DC bought the license of some characters from Archie Comics and added them to the modern DC Universe. Now these aren't really brand new characters, but they been out of print so long that they are new to many readers.

Now There is a argument that the introduction of the characters and the series were not done well and there is a legitimate argument there. The books prices were high due to the back up of the other two Red Circle Characters, The Hangman and Inferno, and they were unknown to the public, but this gets me to the problem I have with the statement I made in the opening of this post. Let's look at The Shield.

Here is the character in issue #1 cover and you know what I have heard of this book. Nothing but great things! The writing done by Eric Trautmann has been complimented from been intelligent, well thought out, wonderful real characterization, and so on. Hell he was forced to shoehorn in Magog, a character that no one asked for and some how got a new series, for a few issues and still the book was good. The artwork from Marco Rudy has gotten equal praise from those who have read it.

Now to be fair I haven't read the book so I certainly didn't help it from not been canned, but hearing all this I differently want to buy the trade. But of course that I will get one really good story from the character as canceled at issue #10 I am not sure if they will be able to make a trade out of the last four issues.

This brings me to the question of where are the people asking for new characters to support the books? Is that they were and they don't have the large numbers as I thought? Or is it my theory is correct in that people want new series staring familiar characters instead? What ever the case may be, a good book has been canceled and the attitude about it is apathetic at best. If people really want new characters then they need to support good books about them. And if not ,then stop saying you do and start saying what you really mean.

Huffer and The Question #5 Hammerspace!

2010-03-12T14:55:00.000-06:00

Who Would Win #7: Batman vs. Daredevil

2010-03-05T14:56:00.002-06:00

Laid Back Comics Goes to Mizuumi-con 3

2010-02-28T14:27:00.002-06:00

BAC takes a his first steps into the world of Anime conventions. Was it a success? Did he have a good time? Did he hurt himself? The answers to all these questions and more!

Huffer and The Question #4- Cannonball

2010-02-23T10:29:00.000-06:00

Laid Back Comics Reads: Rival Schools #1 & #2

2010-02-08T22:01:00.006-06:00

Huffer and The Question #3- Meet a Villain.

2010-02-06T13:45:00.001-06:00

Adventures of Huffer and The Question #2- Meet the Equipment

2010-02-02T09:56:00.002-06:00

The Adventure of Huffer and The Question #1: Meet the Heroes

2010-01-26T23:59:00.012-06:00

This is a photo comic I have been doing on the side for a long time and post at a Transformers Fan site, TFW2005.com. I thought what the hell I will post it here to see if you all want to see it. Trust me it is full of spelling errors and weird grammar. Wish the program I use has spell check but oh well. Here you go!

Top 8 Legion of Superheroes Rejects!

2010-01-15T16:54:00.000-06:00

Things to look forward to in 2010!

2009-12-31T19:56:00.000-06:00

My cold isn't going away which means my latest video will not be able to get made. Which is balls since I thought I was getting better. So instead of just throwing it out I felt, what the hell I tell you guys anyway in text. So here are some things I am looking forward to in 2010.

DC COMICS
Earth-1 and First Wave

DC looks to try its hand at making not one but two parallel worlds in 2010. First Wave is Brian Azzarello series taking place on an Earth populated with the pulp heroes of the past, which means non powered heroes such as Batman, Doc Savage, The Spirit, and the Black Hawks just to name a few.

The other is Earth-1 a graphic novel series with JMS writing for Superman and Geoff Johns writing Batman. It is going to be interesting to see DC try again for new series without years of continuity to worry about, but also to see if graphic novels will sell as well as monthly single issues.

MARVEL COMICS
Siege

Siege is the event following on the heels of Dark Reign Marvel is hitting everyone with another event to reunite Iron Man, Captain America Steve Rodgers back from the dead, and Thor. With the first issue coming out soon, or already out in some places, I was shocked too, it looks like to be a more straight up blockbuster style event. Something worth reading it sounds like.

Iron Man 2

The first trailer is out and I have to admit I was impressed. When I saw a lot of the set pictures of Robert Downing Jr. standing around I was starting to grow skeptical about the sequel. Turns out I was wrong and they were filming and so far it does look good. Have to wait to see the final product though.

OTHER
Kick-Ass

True I should put this under Marvel since they did distribute the comic, but since the movie is not been made by Marvel studios I place it in the other category. True, I haven’t read the book yet as the last issue is not out and it sounds like it might not even be before the movie comes out. But if the hype is to believed than looking to a fun if not violent series.

So there you go some of the things I am looking forward to in 2010. You got some I missed, add them in the comments section oh yeah and HAPPY NEW YEAR!

V-Log 12/30

2009-12-30T17:31:00.004-06:00

Marry Laid Back Christmas!

2009-12-24T14:47:00.000-06:00

I know that stress is common in this time of year with shopping and travling. But, I think everyone should at least take a break and relax and enjoy the good things in life. I hope everyone who reads my blog has a happy hoilday.

I now leave you with this