In case you're a fan of the DM, you can catch the latest video for PRECIOUS over on UGO.com HERE
It's a cool video, with some nice, seamless, CG effects spinning the band into their own little world. Very nice, and timed well with the tune. Good stuff!
Friday, September 30, 2005
MEANWHILE AT THE MOVIES... Serenity is so gonna kick booty!
If you didn't see the show Firefly, or catch it on DVD, shame on you.
You don't need to be a fan of "Buffy" or sci-fi to dig on Joss Whedon's space western, it's that good. Luckily, even though FOX screwed the pooch and prematurely dumped the show 3 years back, it lives on now as SERENITY on the big screen, starting, well, now!
Reviews are already starting to come in, and they're good...
HEROREALM.com for example, HERE
I hope to see the movie this evening!
You don't need to be a fan of "Buffy" or sci-fi to dig on Joss Whedon's space western, it's that good. Luckily, even though FOX screwed the pooch and prematurely dumped the show 3 years back, it lives on now as SERENITY on the big screen, starting, well, now!
Reviews are already starting to come in, and they're good...
HEROREALM.com for example, HERE
I hope to see the movie this evening!
Thursday, September 29, 2005
IN CASE U MISSED IT: Correction, Eric Larsen calls you out!!
Okay, so I read Kirkman's CBR.com column first, as it was the newest entry, but one notch lower reveals that Eric Larsen's column ONE FAN'S OPINION truly does call people out this go-around. In this case, comic creators. Specifically those working exclusively for the big 2.
From the column:
Check out the full, spot-on rant HERE
So come on people, fuck corporate comics! This medium is languishing domestically, we need more original, creator-owned content. We need more PENG, more GODLAND, more MBQ, more creators doing exciting original things in a medium that is limitless in it's potential. FUCK BATMAN, FUCK SPIDER-MAN, how fucking boring.
Eric's right, take a chance, show us what you've got! Because if smaller publishers can't break the stranglehold of the big companies, perhaps a new creator-owned uprising could. There's no reason an industry this small should have multiple versions of anything, we don't need 20 fucking x-books. We don't. It's bad creatively (watered down product), and more importantly, it's bad for the industry as a whole.
SIDE NOTE – Look, I've been creating my book over the course of 3 to 4 years now, and time was, I wouldn't even consider taking it to Image, there just was no perceived value to it. I could release a new book myself and get canceled within 1 to 5 issues just as easily myself, thank you very much. Sure, Image used to be a viable competitor to the big two, but they had a run there of about five plus years where they didn't have any kind of track record, any new successful books to speak of. However, that's changed in recent years, and having a figurehead like Larsen, taking a stand like this is a big step in the right direction. They need to stir things up, they need to build on what they've got going. And the industry needs it too. With the direction they’re heading now, I'd be honored to throw in with the folks there. I’ll just keep striving to create new and exciting things, and raise my game to their level, so that some day, perhaps they could say the same thing about me.
From the column:
Are you ready to confess that those "old hacks" that you look down on really had more going on than you do? Are you willing to confess that you're devoid of ideas? Are you going to fall back on the tried-and-true "all the good characters have been created" or "I'd just end up ripping off some existing character-- and who needs another Batman knock off?"
Bullshit.
...
The thing is-- people like new stuff. That's why Clorox Bleach keeps saying that they're new and improved. People want something new. They want something that's theirs. Sure, there is a nostalgic pull to the comfort characters of the past, which is while they'll forever be rebooting the Dukes of Hazard, Scooby Doo, James Bond and Charlie's Angels and every other garbage TV show from the '60s, '70s and '80s, but given the choice of Scooby Doo and something new-- they'll want to try something new. They may go back to something tried and true if that new thing isn't to their liking, but they'll try something new. That's part of the reason that readers respond to Manga. They can start at the start and get in on the ground floor of something new and exciting.
These aren't their parents' characters or their grandparents' characters with a fresh coat of shellac on them to make them look new and shiny-- these are new characters. These are their characters.
And we can do that.
Check out the full, spot-on rant HERE
So come on people, fuck corporate comics! This medium is languishing domestically, we need more original, creator-owned content. We need more PENG, more GODLAND, more MBQ, more creators doing exciting original things in a medium that is limitless in it's potential. FUCK BATMAN, FUCK SPIDER-MAN, how fucking boring.
Eric's right, take a chance, show us what you've got! Because if smaller publishers can't break the stranglehold of the big companies, perhaps a new creator-owned uprising could. There's no reason an industry this small should have multiple versions of anything, we don't need 20 fucking x-books. We don't. It's bad creatively (watered down product), and more importantly, it's bad for the industry as a whole.
SIDE NOTE – Look, I've been creating my book over the course of 3 to 4 years now, and time was, I wouldn't even consider taking it to Image, there just was no perceived value to it. I could release a new book myself and get canceled within 1 to 5 issues just as easily myself, thank you very much. Sure, Image used to be a viable competitor to the big two, but they had a run there of about five plus years where they didn't have any kind of track record, any new successful books to speak of. However, that's changed in recent years, and having a figurehead like Larsen, taking a stand like this is a big step in the right direction. They need to stir things up, they need to build on what they've got going. And the industry needs it too. With the direction they’re heading now, I'd be honored to throw in with the folks there. I’ll just keep striving to create new and exciting things, and raise my game to their level, so that some day, perhaps they could say the same thing about me.
IN CASE U MISSED IT: Kirkman calls you out!
Robert Kirkman has a fine column that's been running on CBR.com for a little while now, and in this weeks installment he poses some questions concerning the online behavior of the fan community.
I personally, link back to my website with all my online postings, so I try to keep it civil and positive whenever I post on a message board. Others, not so much.
And having had a feature on a comic news site recently (HERE), I can tell you firsthand, I got some flame-throwin drive-bys. But as Robert points out, that's par for the course. It does make you wonder though...
Check out the full BUY MY BOOKS column from Kirkman HERE
I personally, link back to my website with all my online postings, so I try to keep it civil and positive whenever I post on a message board. Others, not so much.
And having had a feature on a comic news site recently (HERE), I can tell you firsthand, I got some flame-throwin drive-bys. But as Robert points out, that's par for the course. It does make you wonder though...
Check out the full BUY MY BOOKS column from Kirkman HERE
Wednesday, September 28, 2005
TALES FROM NETFLIX
Tales From Netflix are DVD reviews, where I tell you where you should put a disc in your Netflix rental queue - placing it at the top, burying it at the bottom, or not even bothering in the first place.
It's a big week, and a good one, so let's get to it!
DEAD AND BREAKFAST
This low budget horror send up, equal parts Evil Dead and Michael Jackson's Thriller, is sure to be a cult classic!
You must see this movie! It's utterly silly, and awesomely cheesy. It's Shaun of the Dead's distant cousin.
This movie ROCKS, put it at the top of your QUEUE!
EMPLOYEE OF THE MONTH
Matt Dillon, Steve Zahn, and Christina Applegate in a twisted little tale. Never heard of it, but it's good stuff.
Put EotM at the top of your QUEUE
THE HITCHIKER'S GUIDE TO THE GALAXY
I really liked this movie, but everything just seemed a bit off... the acting, the timing of the lines, just off. A lot of jokes seem to be just on the other side of actually funny, but a charming movie none-the-less.
Put Guide at the top of your QUEUE
THE HOLE
Interesting premise, and decent watch.
Put this in the middle of your QUEUE
THE LONGEST YARD
Sandler's hit or miss for me, and this one's a hit.
Good stuff, and good times. A fun watch. Put this one at the top of your QUEUE as well.
THE MARKSMAN
Never heard of it, not sure why my wife got it (she must have a thing for Wesley Snipes), but I fell-the-damn-asleep...
Don't put this one in your QUEUE
It's a big week, and a good one, so let's get to it!
DEAD AND BREAKFAST
This low budget horror send up, equal parts Evil Dead and Michael Jackson's Thriller, is sure to be a cult classic!
You must see this movie! It's utterly silly, and awesomely cheesy. It's Shaun of the Dead's distant cousin.
This movie ROCKS, put it at the top of your QUEUE!
EMPLOYEE OF THE MONTH
Matt Dillon, Steve Zahn, and Christina Applegate in a twisted little tale. Never heard of it, but it's good stuff.
Put EotM at the top of your QUEUE
THE HITCHIKER'S GUIDE TO THE GALAXY
I really liked this movie, but everything just seemed a bit off... the acting, the timing of the lines, just off. A lot of jokes seem to be just on the other side of actually funny, but a charming movie none-the-less.
Put Guide at the top of your QUEUE
THE HOLE
Interesting premise, and decent watch.
Put this in the middle of your QUEUE
THE LONGEST YARD
Sandler's hit or miss for me, and this one's a hit.
Good stuff, and good times. A fun watch. Put this one at the top of your QUEUE as well.
THE MARKSMAN
Never heard of it, not sure why my wife got it (she must have a thing for Wesley Snipes), but I fell-the-damn-asleep...
Don't put this one in your QUEUE
Tuesday, September 27, 2005
IN CASE U MISSED IT: Livewires shouldn't fizzle!
In the current installment of the Pipeline column on CBR.com, Augie De Blieck joins the chorus of reviewers (and myself) singing the praises of the under-appreciated Marvel mini-series, Livewires.
From the column:
You can read the full review HERE
Folks, I've said it before, and I'll say it again.
This series rocked.
Adam Warren rocks.
What are you waiting for?
Buy the damn book!!
From the column:
Either way, the damage is done. Sales on the mini were low, and the only hope for its return is in the digest-sized trade paperback coming out next month. I'm making it my job today to explain to you why I think buying the book would be a very good idea.
...
All in all, LIVEWIRES is a lively trip through the Marvel Universe, filled with lighter moments, surprising levels of characterization, and a slick script and appearance. It's far better than its initial sales might indicate. Hopefully, this can rise above the level of "cult classic" with the collection in October.
You can read the full review HERE
Folks, I've said it before, and I'll say it again.
This series rocked.
Adam Warren rocks.
What are you waiting for?
Buy the damn book!!
Wednesday, September 21, 2005
I SAW IT ON TV: Don't call it a comeback...
it's the return of LOST.
Okay, so the first ep of season 2 has come...
The good -
Things moved forward, we get to see inside the hatch/hole
I liked the beginning, I thought it was a flashback, but was surprised to see it was indeed the hatch occupant
The maybe not-so-good -
Speaking of flashbacks, do we really need them now? Season one they served a purpose, telling the story of the cast, how they got to where they were, etc. All very necessary and worthwhile. But now? It just seems that continuing to tell every episode in that fashion would either require the writers to stretch plausibility to keep them relevant, or have them just be endless filler with backstory that's not really necessary. We'll see...
The weird (cause it wouldn't be LOST without the weird) -What's up with Desmond being the dude in the hatch? In Jack's flashback we went back a few years, give or take, but all the items shown in the opening sequence were circa late 70's, early 80's, how does that work out??
Take a spin 'round the Lost forums on ABC.com and see what's buzzin HERE
Okay, so the first ep of season 2 has come...
The good -
Things moved forward, we get to see inside the hatch/hole
I liked the beginning, I thought it was a flashback, but was surprised to see it was indeed the hatch occupant
The maybe not-so-good -
Speaking of flashbacks, do we really need them now? Season one they served a purpose, telling the story of the cast, how they got to where they were, etc. All very necessary and worthwhile. But now? It just seems that continuing to tell every episode in that fashion would either require the writers to stretch plausibility to keep them relevant, or have them just be endless filler with backstory that's not really necessary. We'll see...
The weird (cause it wouldn't be LOST without the weird) -What's up with Desmond being the dude in the hatch? In Jack's flashback we went back a few years, give or take, but all the items shown in the opening sequence were circa late 70's, early 80's, how does that work out??
Take a spin 'round the Lost forums on ABC.com and see what's buzzin HERE
Monday, September 19, 2005
IN CASE U MISSED IT: Ultimate FF?
Over on ComicBookResources.com, there's a sneak peek at some character designs for the Fantastic Four cartoon, due next year.
I'm really diggin' on it...
Should be better then that lame-ass movie!
Go HERE for the full bevy of pics.
I'm really diggin' on it...
Should be better then that lame-ass movie!
Go HERE for the full bevy of pics.
Sunday, September 18, 2005
TALES FROM NETFLIX
Tales From Netflix are DVD reviews, where I tell you where you should put a disc in your Netflix rental queue - placing it at the top, burying it at the bottom, or not even bothering in the first place.
CRASH
Preposterously poignant, but still a good watch that makes you think a bit about important stuff... when you're not busy thinking "How on earth do you expect me to believe this?"
Add Crash to the middle of your queue
FIREFLY: Disc 3 and 4
As I said with my review of discs 1 and 2, I'm really enjoying this a second time through, it reminds me of why I (and so many others) absolutely loved this show the first time around. It would be very bittersweet if there wasn't a Serenity feature film on the immediate horizon though, so all the better.
These discs had many episodes I hadn't seen too, both one's I'd missed on air, and some that weren't aired. So that was a real treat! 'Trash', which featured the return of Mal's "wife" stood out, along with 'Objects in Space' which was one of my favorites from the first go-around.
Put these at spots 3 and 4 at the top of your queue, just below discs 1 and 2. Hurry! The movie comes out September 30th!!
HELLRAISER: HELLWORLD
So, there's been a bunch of Hellraiser flicks on DVD lately, and they've been marginally okay. As I've mentioned, aside from the actual films, I dug that the tone was psychological, more akin to an episode of the outer limits than a horror movie. This one is just plain bad though.
Don't add it to your queue!
OLD BOY
This is a Korean film, but it does have an English dub.
Old Boy can best be described as Kill Bill meets Saw. The setup is a nasty dilemma that drives our protagonist to seek revenge. Along the way one sick and twisted tale unfolds.
It's an excellent movie, but not for the faint of heart.
Put Old Boy at the top of your queue, if you're up for it.
CRASH
Preposterously poignant, but still a good watch that makes you think a bit about important stuff... when you're not busy thinking "How on earth do you expect me to believe this?"
Add Crash to the middle of your queue
FIREFLY: Disc 3 and 4
As I said with my review of discs 1 and 2, I'm really enjoying this a second time through, it reminds me of why I (and so many others) absolutely loved this show the first time around. It would be very bittersweet if there wasn't a Serenity feature film on the immediate horizon though, so all the better.
These discs had many episodes I hadn't seen too, both one's I'd missed on air, and some that weren't aired. So that was a real treat! 'Trash', which featured the return of Mal's "wife" stood out, along with 'Objects in Space' which was one of my favorites from the first go-around.
Put these at spots 3 and 4 at the top of your queue, just below discs 1 and 2. Hurry! The movie comes out September 30th!!
HELLRAISER: HELLWORLD
So, there's been a bunch of Hellraiser flicks on DVD lately, and they've been marginally okay. As I've mentioned, aside from the actual films, I dug that the tone was psychological, more akin to an episode of the outer limits than a horror movie. This one is just plain bad though.
Don't add it to your queue!
OLD BOY
This is a Korean film, but it does have an English dub.
Old Boy can best be described as Kill Bill meets Saw. The setup is a nasty dilemma that drives our protagonist to seek revenge. Along the way one sick and twisted tale unfolds.
It's an excellent movie, but not for the faint of heart.
Put Old Boy at the top of your queue, if you're up for it.
Tuesday, September 13, 2005
Check this out!
Edward Pun is a really nice man, and a super talented artist. Want proof?
Just take a look at this...
WOWWWWWWWWWWWW!!!!!!!!!
Go check out his site for more goodies (peek in the gallery section for some cool Battlestar Galactica and T3 fan art among many more)
CLICK HERE I SAY!
Just take a look at this...
WOWWWWWWWWWWWW!!!!!!!!!
Go check out his site for more goodies (peek in the gallery section for some cool Battlestar Galactica and T3 fan art among many more)
CLICK HERE I SAY!
Monday, September 12, 2005
MEANWHILE AT THE MOVIES... It was worth the wait!
So, I absolutely loved Sin City. What a fucking movie!
It's been really hard not to buy the no frills, vanilla, lame-ass, bare bones regular edition of the DVD when it was released...
but the wait just got a lot easier.
It was announced that not only is the special edition coming out December 13th, but it's the mother of all editions, including an extended un-cut version, as well as the original theatrical release. This of course, on top of a plethora of bonus features. But the cous des gras? Every copy comes with a complete copy of the Sin City graphic novel, “The Hard Goodbye”.
WOW
Which, is too cool, cause I've never even read any of the books (just one or two singles back in the day).
YAY!
For more info, go HERE
It's been really hard not to buy the no frills, vanilla, lame-ass, bare bones regular edition of the DVD when it was released...
but the wait just got a lot easier.
It was announced that not only is the special edition coming out December 13th, but it's the mother of all editions, including an extended un-cut version, as well as the original theatrical release. This of course, on top of a plethora of bonus features. But the cous des gras? Every copy comes with a complete copy of the Sin City graphic novel, “The Hard Goodbye”.
WOW
Which, is too cool, cause I've never even read any of the books (just one or two singles back in the day).
YAY!
For more info, go HERE
Sunday, September 11, 2005
I WATCH ANIME: The movie promised in earlier days?
THE PLACE PROMISED IN OUR EARLY DAYS
The Place Promised In Our Early Days is the full-length, original, anime movie follow-up to the critically hailed 30 minute short feature, Voices of a Distant Star, from director Makoto Shinkai. Voices was a haunting, deeply emotional sci-fi story centered around the connection of a young couple separated by space and time, that made everyone who saw it, long for more from this emerging talent. Place Promised is the answer to that.
As the film gets underway, it's almost derivative of the previous short, in-so-much that it relies heavily on exquisite mood and setting from perfectly framed skyscapes and background detail and sound. Scenes are more a work of art, paintings brought to life, than perhaps most other anime/animation. The story also feels familiar to Voices in that it's centered on three youngsters this time, their inter-personal connections, and a vague sci-fi backdrop. From there though, Place Promised tells it's own tale, and very much succeeds at it.
The plot however is dense and a bit hard to follow at times. Adding to that, the character designs make it a challenge to differentiate who's who from scene to scene, but things piece together as you go along. Those things aside, Place Promised is a thought provoking and often-times beautiful work of animation that is somewhat mature in it's aim, not through violence, sex or language, but in it's pacing or appeal. That is to say, watch it for a strong film, not a flashy anime.
For more information on this excellent anime, visit the ADV website HERE or the Japanese site HERE
The Place Promised In Our Early Days is the full-length, original, anime movie follow-up to the critically hailed 30 minute short feature, Voices of a Distant Star, from director Makoto Shinkai. Voices was a haunting, deeply emotional sci-fi story centered around the connection of a young couple separated by space and time, that made everyone who saw it, long for more from this emerging talent. Place Promised is the answer to that.
As the film gets underway, it's almost derivative of the previous short, in-so-much that it relies heavily on exquisite mood and setting from perfectly framed skyscapes and background detail and sound. Scenes are more a work of art, paintings brought to life, than perhaps most other anime/animation. The story also feels familiar to Voices in that it's centered on three youngsters this time, their inter-personal connections, and a vague sci-fi backdrop. From there though, Place Promised tells it's own tale, and very much succeeds at it.
The plot however is dense and a bit hard to follow at times. Adding to that, the character designs make it a challenge to differentiate who's who from scene to scene, but things piece together as you go along. Those things aside, Place Promised is a thought provoking and often-times beautiful work of animation that is somewhat mature in it's aim, not through violence, sex or language, but in it's pacing or appeal. That is to say, watch it for a strong film, not a flashy anime.
For more information on this excellent anime, visit the ADV website HERE or the Japanese site HERE
TALES FROM NETFLIX
Tales From Netflix are DVD reviews, where I tell you where you should put a disc in your Netflix rental queue - placing it at the top, burying it at the bottom, or not even bothering in the first place.
ASSAULT ON PRECINCT 13
Overall, I did enjoy this, it's just that by the end, as with so many movies, I couldn't swallow the many plot holes and ludicrous events that get thrown together along the way.
It was also surprisingly dark, I thought.
It was a fun setup and a decent watch, if you can look past the horrendous shortcomings.
I'd give Precinct a lower QUEUE rating.
FIREFLY - Disc One and Two
For more on Firefly, see the upcoming words in it's own piece here soon...
For now you just need to know Firefly, if you didn't get a chance to watch it on TV, is must see in any format, and as this is my second time through and it's still a hoot, it should definitely be on the top of your QUEUE!
THE JACKET
The Jacket was a fun little watch. Adrian Brody was engaging and believable in this trip through the darker side of phychiatric hospitalization.
It never really manages to impress too much though, but is just genrally interesting enough to rate a mid QUEUE rating.
ASSAULT ON PRECINCT 13
Overall, I did enjoy this, it's just that by the end, as with so many movies, I couldn't swallow the many plot holes and ludicrous events that get thrown together along the way.
It was also surprisingly dark, I thought.
It was a fun setup and a decent watch, if you can look past the horrendous shortcomings.
I'd give Precinct a lower QUEUE rating.
FIREFLY - Disc One and Two
For more on Firefly, see the upcoming words in it's own piece here soon...
For now you just need to know Firefly, if you didn't get a chance to watch it on TV, is must see in any format, and as this is my second time through and it's still a hoot, it should definitely be on the top of your QUEUE!
THE JACKET
The Jacket was a fun little watch. Adrian Brody was engaging and believable in this trip through the darker side of phychiatric hospitalization.
It never really manages to impress too much though, but is just genrally interesting enough to rate a mid QUEUE rating.
Thursday, September 08, 2005
IN CASE U MISSED IT: Battle on, Alita
MangaLife.com, the newer manga upstart site run by SilverBulletComicBooks.com that also runs features on the SilverBullet homesite (a smart move on their part I think, as it didn't originally to my knowledge), has a recent review for a volume from the long running and popular manga series, Battle Angel Alita.
You can find the review HERE
I bring it up not only because Battle Angel Alita is one of my all time fave mangas (and comics period, for that matter), and it influenced me greatly when creating my own comics, but because Alita came and went domestically, before the big manga boom. So I suspect there are a good amount of newly converted manga fans who've yet to try this masterful tale (at least the original, I know VIZ is currently releasing a follow up series of sorts, but I've yet to read it).
Yukito Kishiro weaves a long, and complex tale about Alita's journey from motor-ball fighter, to spiritual transcendence, that's filled with astounding and masterful artwork. If you're a fan of manga and haven't checked Alita out yet, or even if you normally avoid manga, Alita has enough to offer for just about anyone to give it a shot. Not to mention, James Cameron was to be working on a live action/CG/digital-3D theatrical version for 2007, and there's already an Anime movie out there...
You can find the review HERE
I bring it up not only because Battle Angel Alita is one of my all time fave mangas (and comics period, for that matter), and it influenced me greatly when creating my own comics, but because Alita came and went domestically, before the big manga boom. So I suspect there are a good amount of newly converted manga fans who've yet to try this masterful tale (at least the original, I know VIZ is currently releasing a follow up series of sorts, but I've yet to read it).
Yukito Kishiro weaves a long, and complex tale about Alita's journey from motor-ball fighter, to spiritual transcendence, that's filled with astounding and masterful artwork. If you're a fan of manga and haven't checked Alita out yet, or even if you normally avoid manga, Alita has enough to offer for just about anyone to give it a shot. Not to mention, James Cameron was to be working on a live action/CG/digital-3D theatrical version for 2007, and there's already an Anime movie out there...
Wednesday, September 07, 2005
COMICS REVIEW: Necromancer
Necromancer is one of the new ongoing books from Top Cow, and from what I'd heard and seen I thought it looked worth checking out. Bearing in mind, there have been scores of Top Cow titles that have interested me over the years, but nothing ever really clicked. Top Cow is know for a certain house style, and a penchant for cheesecake, two things I'm not necessarily opposed to, but for whatever reason, they just haven't had anything beyond that appeal to me.
Necromancer also teams newcomer comic scribe Joshua Ortega with penciller Francis Manapul, who's work I'd noticed here and there, but mostly on Witchblade (again a book I've just never been able to get into).
So, I finally sat down with my copy of Necromancer and peeled the pages, weeks after it's release, and almost immediately I was pleasantly rewarded. I guess the bits of concept and story I'd heard about, and the artwork from Manapul were both hitting all the right buttons I'd hoped for. I was going to say especially the writing, because it really stands out - taking a mostly expository issue (similar to what I'm doing with Super Real), and making it sing - but that would be a disservice to Manapul, as I really enjoyed not just his lines, but the fabulous camera work and attention to detail.
Necromancer truly is off to a fantastic start. The climax and cliffhanger of the first issue were brutal and a whole lot of fun. I can't wait to see more from this series, and this pair of creators. Check out this book if you haven't, it's got a lot going for it, and it just may surprise folks who don't normally pick up the Cow, like it did me!
Click HERE to go to the TopCow.com and learn more.
Sunday, September 04, 2005
HEY DJ! - Depeche-load
DepecheMode.com has links to the download of the new single, Precious.
The track, which just hit radio, is a solid mix of current Depeche Mode stylings with a synth hook reminisent of their pre-"Masses" days.
You can link to the download HERE from Itunes
Good stuff.
Looks like we'll have to wait another month or so for the album, Playing the Angel, which hits October 18th.
The track, which just hit radio, is a solid mix of current Depeche Mode stylings with a synth hook reminisent of their pre-"Masses" days.
You can link to the download HERE from Itunes
Good stuff.
Looks like we'll have to wait another month or so for the album, Playing the Angel, which hits October 18th.
Friday, September 02, 2005
IN CASE U MISSED IT: Speaking of G0dland...
If you haven't had a chance to check out G0dland yet, now you can look at the entire first issue for free on Newsarama.com.
Just go HERE
And if you like what you see, just know that issue two is even better!
Just go HERE
And if you like what you see, just know that issue two is even better!
Monday, August 29, 2005
COMICS REVIEW: G0DLAND
G0dland is good comics.
Not just cause it harkens back to legendary themes and art from the medium's storied past, while keeping an eye, and a spin on the story for today.
Not just because Casey's writing is imaginative and fun, and full of ideas that work on multiple levels.
And not just because Scioli succeeds in channeling comic master Jack "The King" Kirby.
But for all of those things, playing together. And more!
Like the vibrant colors.
The trademark Casey design package.
The cool characters.
G0dland is good comics, and we're only two issues in.
Sure it borrows heavily from comics past, but it's a heavy dose of the best stuff, and with enough new to make it entirely worthwhile all on it's own.
Check this book out if you haven't.
It deserves a shot!
Not just cause it harkens back to legendary themes and art from the medium's storied past, while keeping an eye, and a spin on the story for today.
Not just because Casey's writing is imaginative and fun, and full of ideas that work on multiple levels.
And not just because Scioli succeeds in channeling comic master Jack "The King" Kirby.
But for all of those things, playing together. And more!
Like the vibrant colors.
The trademark Casey design package.
The cool characters.
G0dland is good comics, and we're only two issues in.
Sure it borrows heavily from comics past, but it's a heavy dose of the best stuff, and with enough new to make it entirely worthwhile all on it's own.
Check this book out if you haven't.
It deserves a shot!
I SAW IT ON TV: Entourage VS The Comeback
HBO TV is hands down, the best TV.
Let's pit two current top notch shows against each other...
In this corner we have: The Comeback
and in this corner: Entourage
The Comeback, is Lisa Kudrow masterfully sucking you into the life of her fictional reality show star/actress, Valerie Cherish.
A funny, absorbing look into the world of sitcoms, and the folks that bring them to life. At times it truly is hard to watch Kudrow's character struggle through existence, but it's only a testament to her acting.
The show is filled with big time moments that happen on you out of nowhere, just like life. It's great stuff.
Entourage. Well, you don't need me to tell you how good this show is, it's heating up quite a bit and building quite a buzz. And deservedly so.
The second season, poised to wrap up next week, has taken it to new heights. Every episode sings by in a flurry of deadpan dialogue and scripting. The cast are impeccable.
Be sure and tune into these and see for yourself, or if you don't have HBO, catch them on DVD. Especially Entourage.
Let's pit two current top notch shows against each other...
In this corner we have: The Comeback
and in this corner: Entourage
The Comeback, is Lisa Kudrow masterfully sucking you into the life of her fictional reality show star/actress, Valerie Cherish.
A funny, absorbing look into the world of sitcoms, and the folks that bring them to life. At times it truly is hard to watch Kudrow's character struggle through existence, but it's only a testament to her acting.
The show is filled with big time moments that happen on you out of nowhere, just like life. It's great stuff.
Entourage. Well, you don't need me to tell you how good this show is, it's heating up quite a bit and building quite a buzz. And deservedly so.
The second season, poised to wrap up next week, has taken it to new heights. Every episode sings by in a flurry of deadpan dialogue and scripting. The cast are impeccable.
Be sure and tune into these and see for yourself, or if you don't have HBO, catch them on DVD. Especially Entourage.
Sunday, August 28, 2005
TALES FROM NETFLIX
Yes, it's time, time for another trip through DVD-land, time for...
Tales From Netflix!!!
DVD reviews, where I tell you exactly where you should put a disc in your Netflix rental queue - placing it at the top, burying it at the bottom, or not even bothering in the first place.
We've got quite a line-up this week, so let's start it off with...
We likely would've never come across Frog-g-g had it not been for "Frog-g-g's" presence at the San Diego Comic-Con, and I'm not sure that's a good thing.
Frog-g-g was as you'd suspect, a b-movie at best, and a shade campy, but it didn't really flourish in any capacity, cheese or otherwise. So what you're left with is just a bad movie all around, with some all-to-brief hilarious scenes with Frog-g-g (I suspect if you summed up the latex creatures screen time you'd come up to under five minutes). The scenes with Frog-g-g in them are mostly funny cause this is one creature that behaves out of the norm, you see, he's a mutated species that must mate with human females, and fast, and a lot. There's only ever really one sex scene with Frog-g-g though, but it's a treasure.
I'd like to say don't bother, but I'm going to go ahead and mildly recommend you put Frog-g-g at the bottom of your QUEUE
and no, I'm not biased...
This has been a great year for movies, already with at least two added to my all time favorites list - Sin City, and Life Aquatic. Kung Fu Hustle may just be another.
Hustle is filled to the brim with energy, wit, and style. It zips along and crafts one amazing scene, or sequence after the next. As with the aforementioned Sin City, it's a lot like a comic book come to life. A merging of live action directing, with CG effects that's nearly seamless, and makes the impossible come to life. However, this film is not based on a comic book, but writer/producer/director/star (yes, really) Steven Chow (he wears more hats than even Rodriguez) would make a fantastic choice for such a film (but then, Ang Lee didn't exactly succeed in that department...).
Hustle has a lot in common with Crouching Tiger, Hero, and the Eastern wire work films, but where those are mostly emotional, or deeply spiritual, Hustle is pure fun and spectacle. It simply must be seen.
Make sure Kung Fu Hustle is at the top, number one spot on your QUEUE
Just like the title suggests, Layer Cake is dense - as in heavy on plot. It's also one of the best films of the year, and an impressive directorial debut for Matthew Vaughn (no wonder he was tapped to direct X-men 3 initially).
The directing here is what you'd expect or hope for from this type of underworld UK character/caper piece, very stylish, and very cool. It's also filled with great performances from an ensemble cast. The only thing I found too challenging was that the dialects and sound at times were hard to hear or follow, and the plot was very intricate. There is simply a ton of angles being played in this film, and it's hard to tell if it's good ol American laziness that makes it too much, and warranting repeated views, or if those repeated views would start to shine holes in the plot/story.
Layer Cake belongs up there with the other landmark, quality British films of similar ilk, like Trainspotting, Lock Stock & Two Smoking Barrels, and Snatch. It may even score better than some of those. The soundtrack is also very good, and very well suited, just as with Trainspotting.
Be sure and put Layer Cake at the top of your QUEUE, push play and enjoy.
Hey Vin Diesel in a Disney-flick is genius. Undoubtedly the film is not.
The Pacifier does come close to succeeding, really only stumbling towards the middle (and when things fizzle in the middle of short, 90 minute movie, you know you're in trouble), and making what would've been a high recommendation, a mild one.
Had they trimmed a few minutes in the middle, or reworked it a touch this would've been a top queue, but instead I'll go with a middle QUEUE for Pacifier.
Okay, so Steamboy is the long in production, hopeful anime masterpiece, with some of the creators from Akira, and maybe other landmark animes. Thing is, most of the movie animes, that see a domestic release, are all hyped as being from one of the creators of Akira, whether it's the director, editor, writer, I don't know, they make it kind of hard to care at this point.
As I'd heard, Steamboy is a visual accomplishment, it's one of the strongest works of animation put to film. It's not all that vibrant, or imaginative, but it's full of technical renderings done to perfection. The character designs aren't particularly striking either, but also still very solid.
This is a good movie though. It's a solid story, with some incredible visuals. You just don't ever get too swept up in it, or grow to really care for any of the characters, except for the perfectly magical chihuahua that gets introduced and then disappears... (it's the kind of character Miyazaki, another legendary anime director, is renowned for, and part of why his films, don't often miss the mark)
I still say Steamboy belongs at the top of your QUEUE
Tales From Netflix!!!
DVD reviews, where I tell you exactly where you should put a disc in your Netflix rental queue - placing it at the top, burying it at the bottom, or not even bothering in the first place.
We've got quite a line-up this week, so let's start it off with...
We likely would've never come across Frog-g-g had it not been for "Frog-g-g's" presence at the San Diego Comic-Con, and I'm not sure that's a good thing.
Frog-g-g was as you'd suspect, a b-movie at best, and a shade campy, but it didn't really flourish in any capacity, cheese or otherwise. So what you're left with is just a bad movie all around, with some all-to-brief hilarious scenes with Frog-g-g (I suspect if you summed up the latex creatures screen time you'd come up to under five minutes). The scenes with Frog-g-g in them are mostly funny cause this is one creature that behaves out of the norm, you see, he's a mutated species that must mate with human females, and fast, and a lot. There's only ever really one sex scene with Frog-g-g though, but it's a treasure.
I'd like to say don't bother, but I'm going to go ahead and mildly recommend you put Frog-g-g at the bottom of your QUEUE
and no, I'm not biased...
This has been a great year for movies, already with at least two added to my all time favorites list - Sin City, and Life Aquatic. Kung Fu Hustle may just be another.
Hustle is filled to the brim with energy, wit, and style. It zips along and crafts one amazing scene, or sequence after the next. As with the aforementioned Sin City, it's a lot like a comic book come to life. A merging of live action directing, with CG effects that's nearly seamless, and makes the impossible come to life. However, this film is not based on a comic book, but writer/producer/director/star (yes, really) Steven Chow (he wears more hats than even Rodriguez) would make a fantastic choice for such a film (but then, Ang Lee didn't exactly succeed in that department...).
Hustle has a lot in common with Crouching Tiger, Hero, and the Eastern wire work films, but where those are mostly emotional, or deeply spiritual, Hustle is pure fun and spectacle. It simply must be seen.
Make sure Kung Fu Hustle is at the top, number one spot on your QUEUE
Just like the title suggests, Layer Cake is dense - as in heavy on plot. It's also one of the best films of the year, and an impressive directorial debut for Matthew Vaughn (no wonder he was tapped to direct X-men 3 initially).
The directing here is what you'd expect or hope for from this type of underworld UK character/caper piece, very stylish, and very cool. It's also filled with great performances from an ensemble cast. The only thing I found too challenging was that the dialects and sound at times were hard to hear or follow, and the plot was very intricate. There is simply a ton of angles being played in this film, and it's hard to tell if it's good ol American laziness that makes it too much, and warranting repeated views, or if those repeated views would start to shine holes in the plot/story.
Layer Cake belongs up there with the other landmark, quality British films of similar ilk, like Trainspotting, Lock Stock & Two Smoking Barrels, and Snatch. It may even score better than some of those. The soundtrack is also very good, and very well suited, just as with Trainspotting.
Be sure and put Layer Cake at the top of your QUEUE, push play and enjoy.
Hey Vin Diesel in a Disney-flick is genius. Undoubtedly the film is not.
The Pacifier does come close to succeeding, really only stumbling towards the middle (and when things fizzle in the middle of short, 90 minute movie, you know you're in trouble), and making what would've been a high recommendation, a mild one.
Had they trimmed a few minutes in the middle, or reworked it a touch this would've been a top queue, but instead I'll go with a middle QUEUE for Pacifier.
Okay, so Steamboy is the long in production, hopeful anime masterpiece, with some of the creators from Akira, and maybe other landmark animes. Thing is, most of the movie animes, that see a domestic release, are all hyped as being from one of the creators of Akira, whether it's the director, editor, writer, I don't know, they make it kind of hard to care at this point.
As I'd heard, Steamboy is a visual accomplishment, it's one of the strongest works of animation put to film. It's not all that vibrant, or imaginative, but it's full of technical renderings done to perfection. The character designs aren't particularly striking either, but also still very solid.
This is a good movie though. It's a solid story, with some incredible visuals. You just don't ever get too swept up in it, or grow to really care for any of the characters, except for the perfectly magical chihuahua that gets introduced and then disappears... (it's the kind of character Miyazaki, another legendary anime director, is renowned for, and part of why his films, don't often miss the mark)
I still say Steamboy belongs at the top of your QUEUE
Thursday, August 25, 2005
IN CASE U MISSED IT: DMZ me PLZ
As I noticed in yesterday's new edition of Previews (featuring the world debut of Super Real, wink wink), Brian Wood has a new series through Vertigo titled DMZ.
Not only is Brian one of the few comic book writers that I follow, as opposed to artists (but hey, he's an artist too, and his Channel Zero is must read stuff kids), but the artwork shown in Previews looked AMAZING! Freaking, oh my god, FUCKING, cooool! Apparently by Italian newcomer Riccardo Burchielli (or is he a newcomer? anyone?).
Well, I see today that BrokenFrontier.com has a preview for it HERE
Check this out folks.
Looks amazing!!
Not only is Brian one of the few comic book writers that I follow, as opposed to artists (but hey, he's an artist too, and his Channel Zero is must read stuff kids), but the artwork shown in Previews looked AMAZING! Freaking, oh my god, FUCKING, cooool! Apparently by Italian newcomer Riccardo Burchielli (or is he a newcomer? anyone?).
Well, I see today that BrokenFrontier.com has a preview for it HERE
Check this out folks.
Looks amazing!!
Wednesday, August 24, 2005
Super Real trailer online!
Since the current edition of Previews catalog hits comic shops today with a listing for my comic, Super Real, I've updated my website with more info on the series.
Including an all new "trailer" for the book.
Check it out HERE
Including an all new "trailer" for the book.
Check it out HERE
Tuesday, August 23, 2005
HEY DJ! - Mucho Maas por favor!
Timo Maas' second disc, Pictures, proves him to be the lord and master of dark progressive trance.
More understated, and darker than his first effort, Portrait is a must have for any fan of the electronic scene. I'm glad I was able to score a download (legal) since the disc is yet to release domestically (there's not even a release date yet).
Keep your eyes and ears peeled for this one, it's maassive!
More understated, and darker than his first effort, Portrait is a must have for any fan of the electronic scene. I'm glad I was able to score a download (legal) since the disc is yet to release domestically (there's not even a release date yet).
Keep your eyes and ears peeled for this one, it's maassive!
Monday, August 22, 2005
TALES FROM NETFLIX
Tales From Netflix are DVD reviews, where I tell you if a DVD is worth putting in your Netflix rental queue, moving it to the top, burying it at the bottom, or not even bothering in the first place.
XXX: STATE OF THE UNION
XXX PART DEUS is a lot like watching XXX if it were an ICE CUBE remix. Take all the parts from the first movie, which was okay at best, and dub in Cube in the starring role, adjusting the beats, or in this case scenes, accordingly. Add to that the fact that you have Willem Dafoe as the villain, playing Green Goblin with only slightly less hysteria, and you've seen it all before. Even the rap girl run chop shop straight out of Outkast's I like the way you move video.
XXX theft auto gets a mild bottom QUEUE rating from me... mildly enticing D.C. based dumb fun, as witnessed just months ago in National Treasure.
ALEXANDER: Director's Cut
Not sure what the difference is between this and the regular version. I'd heard rumblings of different context through some changes in terms of Alexander's sexuality, and I assume the length and/or rating may be extended...
From all the negative talk I'd heard around this film though, I have to tell you I was pleasantly surprised. While not without it's problems, I thought the film, and Alexander's epic quest to answer life's questions through his unrelenting march of domination, engrossing. Oliver Stone can still weave intoxicating imagery into twisted epic tales, as he did so enjoyably with The Doors or U-Turn, two Stone films that readily come to mind. You really get a sense that Alexander, though questionably cast as Farrell, is journeying to the ends of the Earth. Kilmer also turns in another great performance for Stone as Alexander's father, King Phillip.
Having just watched the Alexander anime by Peter Chung last year, I was familiar with the story, but as I know both are unique takes on it (at least the anime was), there was enough difference between the two. The homosexuality found in the Stone version being the most striking change. That may have been alluded to in the anime, but here it's at the forefront. Dunno if that's part of the original story or not, but it worked well here. I also thought the flashbacks to the crowning of Alexander worked well to drive the story. The one mis-step that comes to mind is the big "first" battle early on in the film where we're treated to the protagonists clever strategy, but then as it plays out, you wish you would've paid closer attention because the presentation is confusing.
I recommend you put Alexander to the top of your queue. Though if you've watched Stone before and found his films not to your liking, I suspect you'd find this the same.
XXX: STATE OF THE UNION
XXX PART DEUS is a lot like watching XXX if it were an ICE CUBE remix. Take all the parts from the first movie, which was okay at best, and dub in Cube in the starring role, adjusting the beats, or in this case scenes, accordingly. Add to that the fact that you have Willem Dafoe as the villain, playing Green Goblin with only slightly less hysteria, and you've seen it all before. Even the rap girl run chop shop straight out of Outkast's I like the way you move video.
XXX theft auto gets a mild bottom QUEUE rating from me... mildly enticing D.C. based dumb fun, as witnessed just months ago in National Treasure.
ALEXANDER: Director's Cut
Not sure what the difference is between this and the regular version. I'd heard rumblings of different context through some changes in terms of Alexander's sexuality, and I assume the length and/or rating may be extended...
From all the negative talk I'd heard around this film though, I have to tell you I was pleasantly surprised. While not without it's problems, I thought the film, and Alexander's epic quest to answer life's questions through his unrelenting march of domination, engrossing. Oliver Stone can still weave intoxicating imagery into twisted epic tales, as he did so enjoyably with The Doors or U-Turn, two Stone films that readily come to mind. You really get a sense that Alexander, though questionably cast as Farrell, is journeying to the ends of the Earth. Kilmer also turns in another great performance for Stone as Alexander's father, King Phillip.
Having just watched the Alexander anime by Peter Chung last year, I was familiar with the story, but as I know both are unique takes on it (at least the anime was), there was enough difference between the two. The homosexuality found in the Stone version being the most striking change. That may have been alluded to in the anime, but here it's at the forefront. Dunno if that's part of the original story or not, but it worked well here. I also thought the flashbacks to the crowning of Alexander worked well to drive the story. The one mis-step that comes to mind is the big "first" battle early on in the film where we're treated to the protagonists clever strategy, but then as it plays out, you wish you would've paid closer attention because the presentation is confusing.
I recommend you put Alexander to the top of your queue. Though if you've watched Stone before and found his films not to your liking, I suspect you'd find this the same.
Friday, August 19, 2005
WWW.CHECKITOUT.COM!
If you're a child of the 70's, or if you dig on TV, movies, or B movies from that era, then you need to check out BugEyedMonster.com!
I stumbled on the site (which sounds familiar) while searching for images of space on Google, and came across good ol' Rom the Space Knight!!
There are several pages of some of the more obscure sci-fi related toys from that era, as well as features on B movie DVDs, wallpapers, and such. A fun site to play around!
If anyone wants to find me an original Alien toy, I'd sure be appreciative!
I stumbled on the site (which sounds familiar) while searching for images of space on Google, and came across good ol' Rom the Space Knight!!
There are several pages of some of the more obscure sci-fi related toys from that era, as well as features on B movie DVDs, wallpapers, and such. A fun site to play around!
If anyone wants to find me an original Alien toy, I'd sure be appreciative!
Thursday, August 18, 2005
IN CASE U MISSED IT: Kirkman shares...
CBR.com's got the best comics columns on the internet, bar none.
No really.
There's the long running, and often enlightening Permanent Damage by Steven Grant.
The uber-informative Comic's Pimp that ran from progressive retailer James Sime.
Joe Casey and Matt Fraction volley questions each week.
The list goes on and on...
Well add a couple Image creators to that list, Eric Larsen, and Robert Kirkman are the latest to get their own columns on CBR.
Kirkman's column, Buy My Books, looks to give an inside look at the milieu of things that float by a prolific comic book scribe, while also highlighting why one should indeed "Buy My Books".
The latest, and second, installment shares further how Kirkman broke in, this time with Image specifically, and there are some nuggets to be found in there for new and aspiring creators. Such as:
Indeed. Seems pretty straightforward, but good advice nonetheless. For more advice, and the full column, go HERE
No really.
There's the long running, and often enlightening Permanent Damage by Steven Grant.
The uber-informative Comic's Pimp that ran from progressive retailer James Sime.
Joe Casey and Matt Fraction volley questions each week.
The list goes on and on...
Well add a couple Image creators to that list, Eric Larsen, and Robert Kirkman are the latest to get their own columns on CBR.
Kirkman's column, Buy My Books, looks to give an inside look at the milieu of things that float by a prolific comic book scribe, while also highlighting why one should indeed "Buy My Books".
The latest, and second, installment shares further how Kirkman broke in, this time with Image specifically, and there are some nuggets to be found in there for new and aspiring creators. Such as:
Up and Comer Advice #2: To make it in comics you have to not suck. But if you don't suck you're really only half way there. It helps to get to know everyone you can. You never know who will be able to offer you that gig that's going to make your career, so get out there and mingle... but most of all, don't suck. It doesn't matter how many people you know if you suck.
Indeed. Seems pretty straightforward, but good advice nonetheless. For more advice, and the full column, go HERE
Wednesday, August 17, 2005
Super Real Webcomic
The SUPER REAL webcomic returns to it's weekly Wednesday installments on GraphicSmash.com beginning today!
Look for issue two to resume running until it's completion, with perhaps some extras along the way!
Tune in, and stop by the forum to share your thoughts!
Look for issue two to resume running until it's completion, with perhaps some extras along the way!
Tune in, and stop by the forum to share your thoughts!
Tuesday, August 16, 2005
IN CASE U MISSED IT: Comics formula for success?
The current edition of Komic Sutra on BrokenFrontier.com caught my eye, it's a whimsical list of twelve "Things You Need To Make a Comic Great".
The full report can be found HERE, but I thought it'd be swell to check the list against my book, Super Real!
So, here we go:
1)Violence - Oh yes. This book doesn't have a "Matureness Required" on the covers for nothing. An hey, just so ya know, Tarantino's a personal creative inspiration... nuff said.
2)Boobies - Yes please, I mean, that is, we have 3 pair of these prominently featured, as well as some very chiseled man chest too (just in case).
3)Monkeys - Nobody really like monkeys in comics, or apes. I just don't get this. There damn sure aren't any apes in this book! Fuck apes in comics, that's just weird fetish shit right there...
4)Deaths - How can I answer this without spoiling anything? ...how bout YES!
5)Celebrity writers - I am neither a writer, nor a celebrity, but I'll do my best to get some washed up reality stars to pimp the book!
6)Tacos - They're just messing around on this one, but perhaps I can work in a scene or two with "tacos".
7)Religion - No, don't think so. But we will play around a touch with politics, and everyone knows that's just as combustible!
8)Parody an Existing character/team - Sort of. Oh, and wait till you see it, it's Super Real's "secret weapon"!!!
9)Family Matters - There are some themes involving family here, but not in the way they suggest...
10)Variant covers - Of course! Did I mention we have Josh Howard for issue one? And wait till you see who I'm lining up for more!!!
11)80's Properties - No thanks. The 80's are so 90's!
12)Mentors - Yes, I think. I've come up with a great little "mentor" character or two.
Now we know this isn't an actual list right? It's just for fun. For instance, important things like good writing and good artwork, are left off the list, those are assumed, I mean it's comic books, writing and art... duh.
So, how'd I score?
Well, for starters, out of 12 items, I only agree with 9, so of those 9 I hit 6, with a couple maybes thrown in there too. Not bad. Good thing it's not an actual test though, but encouraging enough to know I'm on the right track (wink)!
The full report can be found HERE, but I thought it'd be swell to check the list against my book, Super Real!
So, here we go:
1)Violence - Oh yes. This book doesn't have a "Matureness Required" on the covers for nothing. An hey, just so ya know, Tarantino's a personal creative inspiration... nuff said.
2)Boobies - Yes please, I mean, that is, we have 3 pair of these prominently featured, as well as some very chiseled man chest too (just in case).
3)Monkeys - Nobody really like monkeys in comics, or apes. I just don't get this. There damn sure aren't any apes in this book! Fuck apes in comics, that's just weird fetish shit right there...
4)Deaths - How can I answer this without spoiling anything? ...how bout YES!
5)Celebrity writers - I am neither a writer, nor a celebrity, but I'll do my best to get some washed up reality stars to pimp the book!
6)Tacos - They're just messing around on this one, but perhaps I can work in a scene or two with "tacos".
7)Religion - No, don't think so. But we will play around a touch with politics, and everyone knows that's just as combustible!
8)Parody an Existing character/team - Sort of. Oh, and wait till you see it, it's Super Real's "secret weapon"!!!
9)Family Matters - There are some themes involving family here, but not in the way they suggest...
10)Variant covers - Of course! Did I mention we have Josh Howard for issue one? And wait till you see who I'm lining up for more!!!
11)80's Properties - No thanks. The 80's are so 90's!
12)Mentors - Yes, I think. I've come up with a great little "mentor" character or two.
Now we know this isn't an actual list right? It's just for fun. For instance, important things like good writing and good artwork, are left off the list, those are assumed, I mean it's comic books, writing and art... duh.
So, how'd I score?
Well, for starters, out of 12 items, I only agree with 9, so of those 9 I hit 6, with a couple maybes thrown in there too. Not bad. Good thing it's not an actual test though, but encouraging enough to know I'm on the right track (wink)!
Monday, August 15, 2005
IN CASE U MISSED IT: Super F*ckers rock the mp3
Yes, as if the insanely fun Super F*ckers comic from James Kochalka wasn't enough, now there's the Super F*ckers themesong by James Kochalka Superstar (courtesy of Rykodisc)!!
Go HERE and download the theme song for your very own. It's raucus, fun, and in bad taste just like the book!!!
WEBCOMICS R COOL 2 - Hold My Life
Clicked a banner ad for a webcomic called Hold My Life, it had a striking graphic that caught my eye. Once I started the comic I was really blown away. The whole thing is executed in a very unique and stylish graphic vibe, and even though the dialogue is mostly text, it meshed really well with the amazing visuals.
The story picks up with a young girl on a random bus trip to parts unknown, in search of a wi-fi connection... The artist, Dale Ingram, really uses lots of tools and tricks to perfectly execute the story, and I can't wait to read more.
Have a look for yourself. Check it out HERE
The story picks up with a young girl on a random bus trip to parts unknown, in search of a wi-fi connection... The artist, Dale Ingram, really uses lots of tools and tricks to perfectly execute the story, and I can't wait to read more.
Have a look for yourself. Check it out HERE
Friday, August 12, 2005
MEANWHILE AT THE MOVIES... Aeon Flux previewed!
Have yet to see any live footage from the movie, even though they had a booth at the SDCC, so I'm excited to peek.
Go HERE
As I've said, the movie should be animated/anime, but I'll settle for anything.
Here's the LINK to the official site. Not much there yet...
Can't believe Peter Chung was at the SDCC and I missed him!
Drat!
Woe is me!!!
Go HERE
As I've said, the movie should be animated/anime, but I'll settle for anything.
Here's the LINK to the official site. Not much there yet...
Can't believe Peter Chung was at the SDCC and I missed him!
Drat!
Woe is me!!!
Tuesday, August 09, 2005
CON SWAG
Okay, since I still have books I picked up at San Diego Comic-Con I wanted to share, and I've already gone to and come back from Wizard World Chicago, what I'll be doing is featuring them under the CON SWAG title for the next short time...
The first books to feature are from my neighbor at the SDCC, David Montoya of YUME COMICS.
MOHO issue number 1 and 2 ASHCAN
Issue 1 - full size, 24 pages, black and white
Issue 2 - full size, 48 pages, black and white
David is currently selling the first two issues of the series in black and white at cons, but will release them in full color upon distribution. As an added bonus, he's taking the names of everyone who buys the early b&w versions for a tribute page in the color books.
Moho, can be summed up best in one word, imaginative. After spending the better part of a week hearing his pitch for the title, I can tell you, Dave has created a fully realized fantasy/science fiction story for this title, and it shows in the books. Reading them is like entering another world, or in this case a future Earth, where society uses technology, or the restriction of it, to control the masses. The world of Moho is one of semi-primitive tribal communities, where one family is plotting to overthrow their technologically oppressive masters.
In the first issues we get a glimpse of the story David's created, as the family struggles to keep their secret technology, the Moho (a synthetic-human weapon), safe, and in play for the rebellion's plans to challenge the technology-hoarding Xenling. Moho is filled with terms, language, creatures, technologies, and social structures all of original creation. Perfect for fans of Star Wars, Star Trek, Lord of the Rings, or manga/anime, where original universes or worlds are par for the course.
The story is engrossing and moves along well. We meet and become interested in each character and their struggles. Also, David's artwork is unique and fun, plus having seen the color pages, I can tell you, they add quite a lot!
Do yourself a favor and check out Moho. You can purchase copies directly from the Yume Comics website HERE, or learn more about the book in general HERE
The first books to feature are from my neighbor at the SDCC, David Montoya of YUME COMICS.
MOHO issue number 1 and 2 ASHCAN
Issue 1 - full size, 24 pages, black and white
Issue 2 - full size, 48 pages, black and white
David is currently selling the first two issues of the series in black and white at cons, but will release them in full color upon distribution. As an added bonus, he's taking the names of everyone who buys the early b&w versions for a tribute page in the color books.
Moho, can be summed up best in one word, imaginative. After spending the better part of a week hearing his pitch for the title, I can tell you, Dave has created a fully realized fantasy/science fiction story for this title, and it shows in the books. Reading them is like entering another world, or in this case a future Earth, where society uses technology, or the restriction of it, to control the masses. The world of Moho is one of semi-primitive tribal communities, where one family is plotting to overthrow their technologically oppressive masters.
In the first issues we get a glimpse of the story David's created, as the family struggles to keep their secret technology, the Moho (a synthetic-human weapon), safe, and in play for the rebellion's plans to challenge the technology-hoarding Xenling. Moho is filled with terms, language, creatures, technologies, and social structures all of original creation. Perfect for fans of Star Wars, Star Trek, Lord of the Rings, or manga/anime, where original universes or worlds are par for the course.
The story is engrossing and moves along well. We meet and become interested in each character and their struggles. Also, David's artwork is unique and fun, plus having seen the color pages, I can tell you, they add quite a lot!
Do yourself a favor and check out Moho. You can purchase copies directly from the Yume Comics website HERE, or learn more about the book in general HERE
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