COMIC PICK OF THE WEEK! 10/18

Okay I'm a bit late (and no one played along last time... sniff sniff) but it's time for my new interactive feature, THE COMIC PICK OF THE WEEK.
Again, each week I'll look at all the books I pick up from the new releases at the comic shop, and pick my favorite. Then, and this is the interactive part (hint hint), you can add your favorite of the week to the comments section.

You can do eeeeet!!!

Last week was a big one for new number ones and Wildstorm in particular.

Back in the day, Wildstorm was by far my favorite comic line. They had great creators, focusing on solid contemporary artists, and a great superhero universe, that was also contemporary. Then Jim Lee started doing work for hire at DC and his Wildstorm line languished. Well, it's back big time, and last week we had Gen13 #1 (unimpressive), and this week it's time for the new Grant Morrison Wildcats and Authority to debut. I looove Morrison's writing, so these are perfect for me, but so far, I'll need future issues to really dig on the titles. So, again, Wildstorm, as much as I loved their stuff before, doesn't win.

Then there's the new Virgin "Director's Cut" debut from John Woo and Garth Ennis, 7 Brothers. This was good, but not great. Strong art, decent story, but nothing too special in the concept and script. Again time will tell on this one...

Of the rest, I'm still digging on Girls from Image, but until something new and exciting happens, it's just a solid read, not a pick o' the week... and also Cassanova, and as much as I wanted to love issue 5 here, and make this the pick of the week, I just couldn't do it, this series is great, I absolutely love it, one of my new favorite titles, but this issue wasn't up to par for me.

Soooo...
PICK OF THE WEEK: X-Men First Class #2

Okay, I feel crazy for doing it, but this book just totally charmed me. Issue one was okay, but the series itself is limited, as in figuratively (yes it's a literal limited series too). Taking the original fab 5 x-students and exploring some never told early adventures, while something I really dig (as I remember seeing little ads for the original X-Men in late 70's early 80's Marvel books, but never coming across a title that showcased them), the scope of the series is far from grand. Just simple stories focusing on the original team, but oddly in a generic modern setting, not true continuity, not ultimate contemporary. All that said, it's great to see stories with this cast (original hairless Beast is one of my favorite characters), and while issue one was nothing too special, I thought Jeff Parker's scripting here really stood out, and showcased some truly inventive, genuine, and fun character moments. And when that's all you have to hang a series on, the book works well when that's accomplished! I've also always enjoyed Roger Cruz's artwork, and it's solid here too, yet different, a little stiffer and more generic than his stuff usually is, but nice to look at.

So there you have it, that was last week in comics for me.

How about you, what was your favorite pick of the week???

SUPER REAL NOTES - 10/26/06

ISSUE 3 REVIEWED ON BROKENFRONTIER.COM

Another review has gone up for the latest issue, number 3, this time on BrokenFrontier.com.

BF columnist Jason Berek Lewis is a fan of the series, so it's good to see he's still enjoying what I'm doing!

Check out the review HERE

STUMPTOWN COMICS FEST

Turns out I will be exhibiting, of sorts, at this weekends big indy comics showcase in my hometown of Portland Oregon, The Stumptown Comics Fest.

A friend and local artist Randy Kintz, was kind enough to share his spot with me, so I'll have some books and sketchbooks at the show this weekend.

Randy's a great guy, and is currently working for Blue Water Productions, you can see his work HERE
Or his Super Real pinup HERE


The show is at the Oregon Convention Center (swanky), and runs two days, Friday 4-8 and Saturday 10-6. Stop by if you're in the Portland area!

SUPER REAL NOTES - 10/24/06

ISSUE 3 REVIEWED ON NEWSARAMA!

The first reviews of the recent issue are starting to hit, and you can check one out now on Newsarama's YOUR INDY WEEKLY COLUMN. Columnist Ryan McLelland has been a fan of the book from the get go, and although he had a minor quibble with our latest issue, he still gave it 3 and 1/2 out of 4 stars!

Check out the review HERE (and you can even post your comments on the thread if you like!)

PRO OR CONS?

So, I had a busy con schedule in the early part of '06, doing Wondercon, Wizard World LA, Wizard World Philly, and Comic Con International. Lots of travel, lots of expense, lots of fun. WWLA and SDCC were the most successful, and one's I'll repeat next year. WWPhilly I won't, it's too much of an expense, and the artist alley there is full of creators, whereas LA is not. It seems the more artist alley/small press turnout, the smaller the sales. Makes sense, there are a lot more small time artists and publishers competing for the same dollars, be it commissioned artwork, or independent comics. I may try Wondercon again next year, cause it's such a great show, but in the artist alley as opposed to small press. When you're located in artist alley you tend to get more sketch commissions, and therefore more sales. I love sketching, and I love selling books, but most of all I NEED the most sales I can at shows to offset the cost.

I also did a couple regional shows in March and April, my local show, The Portland Comic Book Show, and the newer Seattle show, Emerald City Comic Con. The Portland Comic Book Show is in it's 30th year, and was the first con I ever attended. I still remember my first comic con, because it was a huge event for me. It was 1983 and I was utterly in love with comics, and drawing them too. My free time was consumed with comics, either reading or creating them.It's easy to recall the year and specifics, because 1983 was when I created the first issue of the biggest comic project I've ever done (still bigger in output even than Super Real), Dogie the Wanderer. Dogie was a humanoid talking dog, that was very much derivative of Cerebus, my favorite comic of the time. But instead of wielding a sword in years past like Cerebus, Dogie was in a future Earth sci-fi setting (and although directly inspired by the aardvark comic, very much his own book when all was said and done). Anyway, back to the first con. I remember I went with a couple friends who were comic fans (to lesser degree, and not as a knock, but I was THE comics guy in any ring of comics friends, only child, spoiled, artistic genes, it just was my thing), and we were all stoked about finding various books or seeing various creators. In 1983 I would've been 13, so we had a ride from my dad. Thing was, I'd brought that first issue of Dogie with me to the show, to show the creators in attendance my work, but I was a shy guy, and didn't want to go through with it. I still remember my dad forcing me to show artist Ron Wilson, then penciller of Marvel's The Thing, whom I'd stood in line to see. I remember all this because those few seconds that Ron looked over my comic, were some of the most nerve racking of my young life, here was a guy drawing one of my favorite characters, doing what I wanted to do for a living, looking over my knowingly rough artwork. Sure Dogie was my proudest achievement at the time, but I knew it wasn't all that yet. Ron was a nice man, and he even signed my book for me... I still have all of my 9 issues of Dogie preserved in acid free paged binders, and I still have Ron's signature on that first issue cover to also remind me of that big event.

Any way, enough Jason Martin history, my point was that the Portland show is long running, local, and always has two shows a year, except this year. For the first time ever, they've canceled a show, the show that would've been in October. So I'm missing having that, the Portland Shows are some of my best for Super Real. Now I've got to wait til the spring for another.

As for Emerald City, this is a great show, best in the NW by far, the organizers really go all out and bring in dozens of top name creators. However, this year's show, the fourth, was the first that was a let down. They still put on a great show, but attendance was down, or at least didn't continue the pace of growth, the first 3 years of the show attendance doubled per year. This show was another let down for me in terms of sales. Again, I think to do with the very large artist alley section (but also the decreased numbers couldn't have helped). It's still an awesome show to attend though, and next year is already shaping up to be huge. Again here, I'll probably go for artist alley next time.

Another new regional show that's growing by leaps and bounds is The Stumptown Comics Fest. This is a unique show, that spotlights creators, with no exhibitors allowed. Similar I assume to other indy showcase cons like SPX or APE. Stumptown is in it's third year, and is this weekend. I however, won't be exhibiting at this one either. As they sold out before I committed, and honestly, as I suspected, Super Real doesn't play well to indy crowds, as my first time at Stumptown last year was a sales disaster. So I was reluctant to pay the now double the price cost for space at this year's show (I imagine, due to it residing in the top notch Oregon Convention Center). I may share a space with a friend though... we'll see.

So, I had 6 shows in less than five months, between February and July, and nothing on my calendar since. I'm getting the itch to get out there, but frankly, after sooo many shows, I was burnt out (not to mention way behind). I'd planned on doing the New York Comic Con in February, but as of a month ago when I looked into it, they were already sold out of artist alley and small press space. I'm really bummed about missing this show, but hopeful to still find a way in (anyone want to sell me their artist alley space?).

Also, I'd thought about doing Wizard World Texas, as I do every year, but never break down and spend on air, hotel, and con space for this one. I suspect like WWLA though, that the artist alley space here is smaller, and could be conducive to a good show for me. However, when I talked to the exhibits person last week they indicated the space was almost sold out. I'd been watching air fair, but even with a recent drop to around $250, the total overall cost would still be at least $550 for a 4' space. And that's too much to chance right now. So, no WWTexas again this year.

Time to start planning for next year though, so stay tuned for details on that.

Hope you enjoyed the insights into doing cons as a publisher/creator, and my personal insights too. I'll have to share more of those in the future.

STAY TUNED,
jason

TALES FROM NETFLIX - Feast

TALES FROM NETFLIX are DVD picks from off the beaten path, discs you may have never heard of, lurking at the bottoms of the new release list, or easy to miss on the video store wall of newness (if anyone still goes to those archaic places)...


This time though, I'm picking a flick that's not really that obscure, having been featured as the latest Project Greenlight winner, and having television advertising, and media buzz behind it. That said, FEAST, the new release in question, is definitely non-standard hollywood fair...

FEAST is first time director John Gulager's grand prize courtosey of Damon, Affleck, and crew's final Project Greenlight, the opportunity to helm a feature film. Unlike previous winners, Gulager's project is from the horror genre, and Feast is an in your face, all out, splatter fest at that! However, it's also a thrill ride of action/comedy despair, where a desert watering hole becomes a makeshift hideout for patrons from attacking lethal monsters.

Right from the start, Feast highlights unique directing, quirky characterization, and laugh out loud humor. Frequently taking horror situations and turning them on their ear. It's like Night of the Living Dead meets Tremors. Where the focus is not only on the impending doom our trapped cast must navigate, but also campy humuor that can strike just as suddenly. Limb severing, monster casterating, blood bathing, face peeling, maggot wrangling scenes come fast and hard, but it's all offset by just as much rapid fire humor. Scenes that would be just straight up hellish, are all played for hellish fun.

The cast are great, with Henry Rollins standing out as the motivational speaker who takes desperation monolguing to new levels (pure genious on the part of the writers), and Krista Allen as the victimized waitress turned throat punching eventual bad ass of the bunch.

Also of note, are the creatures and effects, as a glance at any of the special features will tip you off to the fact that though this was a full feature production, the budget was challenging at best. The filmakers had to make the most of the opportunity, by setting the story in one internal location, and utitlizing old school technologies for the special effects. The creatures and everything in the film utilize technologies from the 1980's, with no cg shots due to cost, but instead of it being a hinderence, it's another strong suit. The creatures are fun, feral, and wild, with more character and nuance than their costly perfectly pixelated counterparts.

If you like old school horror, in your face action, camp, raunchy humor, or explosively deviant fun, Feast is truly a feast for your senses. While it's not blazing a new path in high concept, it does crackle with creativity, and I can't remember the last time I had this much fun with a movie, start to finish! (Okay, maybe it was the similarly skewed, but more uneven horror/comedy Dead and Breakfast)

HIGHLY RECOMMENDED!
The original trailer...

The new one...


Check out previous Tales From Netflix:
Calvaire
Sars Wars
House of 9
2001 Maniacs

I SAW IT ON TV: LOST

We're three weeks in on Lost so far, and it's been hit or miss for me, I'm still enjoying the show, but not completely. I thought Locke's flashback was lame, and that whole episode would've been better as a subplot.

For fans of the series, you can check out Attack of the Show's Dhorkma films that summarize episodes, and provide some insight. Although their latest, from last week and episode 2, was light on nuggets of wisdom...

Jimmy Kimmel Live is also doing a series of spoof shorts, placing the incomparable Billy Dee Williams in the show. Check out ol' Lando Cal hangin with the polar bear here:


So, why's Desmond seeing the future? And how did he, Locke and Echo survive the hatch implosion?

I SAW IT ON TV: Tune the frak in!!!

Can't wait till later tonight to catch the new ep of Battlestar Galactica season 3.

For me, the premiere ep was a misstep, good, but too direct in it's mirroring of current events/themes, but they got the 'ol ship steered in the right quadrant last week.

Also, anyone else think something's up with Colonel Tigh's missing eye?
Episode one/two the Cylons claimed they weren't torturing prisoners, and it'd be mighty convenient if ol' Tigh popped that bad boy out himself, to fuel the resistance movement he heads up....

TALES FROM NETFLIX - 3 picks

Tales From Netflix are DVD picks from titles you may have never heard of... This time we've got a handful of titles; a demented foreign film, an indy oddity, and an 80's cult classic!
First up, released last week, and all the way from France/Belgium is one truly twisted psychological horror gem, CALVAIRE (The Ordeal).

Many liken this film to the original Texas Chainsaw massacre, and I'll agree in terms of spirit. Like TCM, Calvaire features a roadside trip to the insane, but instead of in your face horror, things spiral into levels of bizarre terror. Centering on a young singer who's equipment van breaks down mid journey in fog filled countryside parts unknown, and an all but abandoned inn that offers him respite. As time goes on, the inn and it's keeper, and the surroundings are anything but.

Calvaire is in French with subtitles, but features strong acting and directing. Several scenes burn deep into your brain, either with clever craft, or for the subtly disturbing imagery. Then of course there are some downright inspired bizarro moments, and some brutally dark ones as well.

If you like taking trips into the darker side of the human condition, or films that challenge the scope of what's possible in film, Calvaire is a must see. It's not for the faint of heart, but it is a haunting and expertly crafted offering.
HIGHLY RECOMMENDED


Next up is an indy thriller that's creatively inspired, PARANOIA 1.0

Paranoia stars Jeremy Sisto, whom you'd recognize possibly from the recently cancelled NBC show Kidnapped, or any number of film credits, in a near future drama that slowly builds an interesting and stylish mystery. Similar to the original Matrix, but replacing the green tinged dingy inner city cinematography for a sienna tone, and sans the bullet laden action, Paranoia is a future tech head trip with some fun side effects. It doesn't quite grasp the next level, but it's a great journey, and a nicely built work.
RECOMMENDED

And finally, we go all the way back to 1988 for the cult favorite, THEY LIVE

John Carpenter of Halloween fame directs this yuppie bashing sci-fi social commentary featuring Rowdy Roddy Piper. If you haven't seen this one, I'm not going to outline the plot, because it's a fun setup that really propels the whole thing. They Live is a great slice of 80's sci-fi that's part Romero zombie flick part Arnold action feature, blending many genre elements together to great result. Plus it's got one of the best fist fight scenes ever, a classic line, and an awesome twist.

If you're like me and never saw this one, CHECK IT OUT NOW!
HIGHLY RECOMMENDED


Check out previous Tales From Netflix:
Sars Wars
House of 9
2001 Maniacs

COMIC PICK OF THE WEEK! 10/11

Okay kidz... time for a new feature, and an interactive one at that.
Basically, starting this week, of all the books that come out each week I'll pick one that's my favorite, and post it here. Then, and this is the interactive part, you can add your favorite of the week to the comments section.

If we all share, it could be a fun little discussion about the best comics out there!
But that's the key, commenting, sharing, otherwise it's just me rattling on about comics...
Don't pick up new books each week? Then recommend something you read recently!

Okay?

So, this week was a big one, there were lots of books I was looking forward to.
First off, I've been waiting to check out the new Dead@17 ongoing series from Josh Howard, and I'm a huge Gen13 fan from way back, so the reboot of that had me anxious (but skeptical), both books had issue 1's out this week. Then there's the debut of Cable in Ultimate X-Men 75, and the very impressive Brubaker run continues with Uncanny X-Men 479. This week also saw the debut of the new Rick Spears series, The Pirates of Coney Island, and if you haven't yet, you really need to check out Rick's first book, Teenagers From Mars, that was EPIC!

So, what won out?
What's my pick of the week this time?

I'm going to have to go with Dead@17 #1.
Pirates was fun, great art, interesting, vibe-ish, cool.
Uncanny had another great issue, with a couple more laugh out loud moments, and "Aw yeah, fucking X-men!" moments too (and really, I haven't had many of those lately).
Gen13 though, after starting strong-ish got progressively worse, to make me wonder by the end why on Earth they rebooted for this??
Soooo, Dead@17 is it.
Great first issue, with a nice little opening moment for returning fans, followed up with the origin of our new series with character introductions and fateful events. It was fun, looking forward to more.

That's it, til next week.

So, now, tell me, what was your favorite pick this week???

SUPER REAL NOTES - 10/13/06

Hey it's Friday the 13th!!! My lucky day... yes I said lucky, that's because after weeks of waiting, and calling, and emailing, so on and so forth, I finally got some copies of issue 3! The extra copies of issue 3 are finally en route, and the handful I had overnighted actually showed up this AM (you know, almost a month after they were printed...)That means that all the copies sold through the website (and the contest winners) will be shipping tomorrow (sorry again for the wait folks), and I'll start getting out review copies and comps over the next week.

Not to mention, I actually got to see covers B and C printed up... everything looks great! If you've been waiting for me to change the preorder status in the store, or been thinking about picking up some of the other issues or covers, now's the time to shop away, I can always use the support! ;)

Also, as far as I know, the incentive covers never shipped via Diamond, as they didn't show receiving the full qty back on 9/20, and we finally got the remainder delivered to them today as well. So, if you're waiting on those via comic shops they might make it out next week... (and hey man, those Felipe covers are the shit!!! Well worth the wait :)

SUPER REAL SPECIAL

It's official, the Super Real Special: Super Real VS The Comic Book Industry is on Diamond's schedule for February!
I submitted my solicit information this week for the first ever Super Real Special, so that means it will be in the December Previews catalog, in comic shops for preorder last week of November.

I changed up the covers at the last minute. Diamond seemed eager to promote the book somewhat since it features interior work by the fine Mr. Mahfood, so I used the cover art he'd done earlier this year that I was going to use as a variant on the regular series for the 1 in 5 variant on the special.
Did I mention how cool the special is going to be?!?
Yeah, I think I have... you've gotta see this one folks, it's gonna be cool.

TSL CONTEST

Yes, I did mention a contest up above... In case you missed it, Monday I had a little Super Real Special cover art themed contest that had 2 lucky winners scoring copies of the issue 3 variant covers.

And, in case you played and didn't see who won, our winners were:
Joel Danford - 1st place - a complete set of issue 3 covers
Brant Fowler - runner up - a copy of the Felipe Smith incentive cover C!!

Thanks for playing and keep your eyes peeled for another contest here soon!

STAY TUNED,
jason

IN CASE U MISSED IT: Grindhouse on YouTube

Okay, so I linked to my first YouTube clip earlier this week, Google paid bazillions o' dollars to buy the site, and now I'm linking to another clip... all in the span of a couple days. Tipping point anyone?

Anyway, if you're a Tarantino fanatic like me, or a Rodriguez head (his stock rose tremendously with me after Sin City natch)... then Grindhouse is for you! Or if you just like in your face down and dirty cinema you're probably as excited and feverish with anticipation over the dos directors upcoming double feature as I am.
The good folks at AintItCoolNews.com had a link to the YouTube'd trailer this AM... and it's very cool!
CHECK IT OUT!!
Not sure how much of this is just the mock trailers that run between the features, but we don't even get a glimpse of Kurt Russell drivin his deathmobile, and you know that's gonna be fuckin cool!!!
Can't wait!

Super Real Special CONTEST

Contest time!

With issue 3 out in shops now, and things ramping up for our next installment, the first Super Real Special, SUPER REAL VS THE COMIC BOOK INDUSTRY, I thought it was time to do another contest.

This time I'm giving away a complete set of Super Real issue 3 covers, the regular cover, and both the variants, all 3 covers for the book to the lucky winner. I'll also get a copy of the Felipe Smith incentive variant cover to the runner up!

So what's the contest you ask?

Take a look at the cover to the special, and then leave comments with your guesses to the following...

How many comic book icons are represented in the cover artwork?
Please name them all.
(Click on the pic to see a larger image)

Some are obvious (okay most of them), but there might be one or two that aren't.
Again, the theme of the book is that our Super Real cast members have to face off against challengers who resemble various comic book genre icons. The cover however, is superhero-centric...

Anyone?

The first complete correct answer is the winner, and if anyone gets a partial, the highest guess there is the runner up.
Also, when leaving your guesses, please make sure I have a way to contact the winner/s!!!
Good luck!

jason

For more details on the Super Real Special, go HERE, or HERE

IN CASE U MISSED IT: American Witch video

David Hartman is a filmaker, animator, artist currently working for Disney who creates some amazing horror tinged technicolor landscapes filled with monsters and pretty girls, and he recently did a video for frequent collaborator Rob Zombie, and his song AMERICAN WITCH.

Just watched the video on YouTube and it's awesome,
CHECK IT OUT!


And while you're there, check out his equally awesome CODENAME EMBRYO animated shorts!!

SUPER REAL NOTES - 10/5/06

SUPER REAL SPECIAL CREATORS CONFIRMED

As anyone who follows the book knows by now, the next issue to come from Super Real is the first ever Super Real Special, SUPER REAL VS THE COMIC BOOK INDUSTRY, which will hit shops this February.
I've already announced the format and even previewed a couple sections at San Diego Comic Con, but I haven't yet announced the full line up of guest artists that are contributing. I recently started hinting that there's a big name artist attached to the project, and with things rolling along, I think it's time for full disclosure...

The format is one story told in 5 parts, with each section spotlighting one of our five reality show cast members using their newfound genetic enhancements against stand-ins for comic book icon challengers. The special is entirely scripted by me, and I even draw one section, but the other four scripts are brought to life by guest artists. So, the book not only highlights the series concepts, but it also features some exciting up and coming sequential talent. As if that wasn't enough, one of the sections will be by an established pro, and popular artist who's worked for Oni, Image, Marvel and more!


That's right, JIM motherf'n MAHFOOD will be the first Super Real Special "featured artist"!
Along with Jim on art chores, the full lineup will be:
Participant 1 (Holly Hood) - The Boo (Super Real Shorts)
Participant 2 (Michael Dasquea) - Me (series creator/artist)
Participant 3 (Kityana Bliss) - Edward Pun (issue 2 variant cover, video game artist)
Participant 4 (Warren Campbell) - Jim Mahfood (indy legend)
Participant 5 (Shana Payne) - Daniel Campos (BloodRayne)

Again, each section highlights one cast member in battle against familiar looking foes from the comic industry, and I'm keeping the full lineup of foes secret for the time being (hint, they're not actual comic book icons, but ya know, sort of like them).

The book will be standard size (32 pages), but extra length (roughly 28 pages of story), in black and white, mature readers, with a $3.50 cover price.
It will be in comic shops February 2007, with 2 covers; a regular cover by me (see pic/ad), and a lower ratio ZOMBIE variant cover (yes, Super Real Zombies... you can't have a book highlighting the comic industry and not do something with zombies!!).

As of today, parts (participants) 1 and 3 are fully completed, with the scripting complete on the rest of the book, and the artwork for my section already under way.

Trust me, this book is going to be so a total blast. It showcases the Super Real concept, at the expense of comics/characters everyone knows, it features a great selection of artwork, and takes place between the events of issues 3 and 4. An all out action, mash-up, remix, joy ride extravaganza!
Oh yeah, plus we get to see Warren/The Tool's new secondary enhancement in action for the first time!!

Be sure and tune in tomorrow for a Super Real Special-centric contest, where we'll give out a set of issue 3 variant covers to a lucky winner!!
And stay tuned for more info and previews right here on the TSL blog!

jason

10/7 UPDATE: Lets move the TSL contest to monday 10/9, please tune in then for the details.

IN CASE U MISSED IT: Alias Comics gone, Lullaby not?

So, another recently aggressive upstart independent comic publisher has gone away. Last time it was Speakeasy, this time it's Alias. When Speakeasy closed up shop in February, many speculated Alias was the next to go, with both companies storming on the scene at roughly the same time in 2005, and both facing many problems and questions about their publishing strategies. However, here we are in October, and Alias has kept some output, and isn't going out of business, they've simply announced they're switching to a Christian only publising line, dropping all their secular books from the lineup.

The point of note for me, centers around one of their secular titles, Lullaby.
Lullaby was a fantasy series, that was at least in part created by it's artist, Hector Sevilla. Now in the press release and follow up from Alias, it's mentioned that Lullaby is one of the secular titles owned by Mike Miller that will possibly be moving elsewhere, apparently without it's artist/creator, Hector Sevilla. Hector recently posted on his DeviantArt page that he would be taking a "break" from Lullaby, and not to ask why in a recent journal entry. Hector also did a variant cover for issue 3 of Super Real, and as the variant artist, did an interview as well, where I asked him about his role in Lullaby, weeks before the now official hiatus and change in publishing on the title. According to Hector, he was at least a partial creator of the series, so it seems a bit odd that Miller lists it as one of his properties (and that Hector won't speak of the situation further, and now appears to be working on a new title). Seems most likely that Miller and Alias set up controlling ownership in the title when agreeing to publish it, and have in some way irked it's creator by changing their publishing plans with it.

Now, I don't really want to speculate or stir up anything with these observations, but since I do have a unique perspective on it, thought I'd throw out what I know and leave it at that. I've met Hector, and consider him a friend, and the fact that he's from Mexico, with this being his first work, I could see where things could get unfortunate in terms of the business aspects of ownership (perceived or real) of the property. For that matter, I'm not clear on what he actually claims in terms of ownership, just that by my interview with him, and the question/s around that topic, I was left with the impression that it was at least partial. Let me also state, for what it's worth, that I've met and know Mike Miller, and he's been nothing but friendly and professional in my dealings with him.

Another Alias creator, with one of their "secular" titles, also with a Super Real connection (this time the issue 3 inside cover pinup), is Dave Alvarez and his title Yenny. Dave also just posted a note on his DeviantArt page on the announced Alias change HERE.

So, there you have it, for what it's worth.
I'm not surprised Alias has gone through a publishing change, but I am curious about some of the ramifications.
At the least this means if Lullaby continues, it will most liekly be without artist Hector Sevilla.

Hopefully things work out best for all involved.

SUPER REAL NOTES - 9/29 Super Real Special

YESTERDAY WAS A GOOD DAY!

Ah yes, it's amazing what a day off to focus on the book can do for things... not only did I decide on a great cover concept for the variant on the Super Real Special (SUPER REAL VS THE COMIC BOOK INDUSTRY), but I laid down what I think is the best script for it yet!
And really, I've been very impressed with the scripts I've already done!!

The special, five scripts by me, for five different artists, each focusing on participants 1 thru 5 of our Super Real cast, while also focusing on a different challenger inspired by comic book icons for each, has already been mostly planned out.
I have two sections completed, scripts and art (those two can be seen, except for their final, all-telling, pages, in the SDCC 06 preview book), and as I've catered each script to the artist, I've kind of organically created the foes/icons for each as I've scripted them for the artists. I mean, I've had ideas of what I wanted to cover, but specifically, things are hashed out as I know who I'm writing for, and let me just tell you, I don't know if it's the straight up action bent on this one, or that writing for someone else is liberating, or just the balls to the wall nature of the special, but I think I've come up with some of the best shit yet!!!

So, I've surprised even myself as I crank out what I think is another script, to top the previous ones, for the recently signed BIG NAME ARTIST that's now attached to the special. (I'm really having lots of fun coming up with crazy foes and situations for these stories!)
I'm not going to spill yet who it is, till we get further along, but he's a great fit, and should turn out a kick ass delivery!!

The special is now firmly on track for February... as with most things Super Real, the schedule has unfortunately slipped further than I originally hoped/planned, but also, has turned out much fucking better for it!!
With a February shelve date, that means I've got to get things together for Diamond by Thursday after next, and I must say, with the main cover almost tweaked to completion, and the variant cover now under way, along with the script for Ji... er the top secret artist completed last night, and only one script to write for the last awesome dood to jump on to go... well, we're solid fucking gold for February!
And really, February is right around the corner, just about 4 months.
Trust me, it'll be here before you know it, and well worth the wait!!

(And for those worried that the special won't have my chicken-scratch-deluxe artistic stylings, never fear, one section is penciled by some dood named... ME!)

STAY TUNED,
the best is yet to come!
jason

Super Real Notes - 9/27

Today is the day!

Super Real issue 3 is in shops today folks, be sure and snag your copy.
If you can't find a copy, your friendly local comic shop owner can order one with these Diamond order codes:
COVER A and B (regular covers) - MAR063379
COVER C (free 1 for 5 incentive) - MAR068320
Or if you can't make it to a comic shop you can always pick copies up in the website STORE right now ;)

You can also find all the info you need on the latest issue, and more at the website HERE, including links to previews!

Since I haven't received my copies of the book from the printer yet, I picked up the book myself from my local comic shop (yes, I have Super Real on my pull list :p), to get my first look at the finished product.
They just had copies of the regular cover in my box, and on the rack, so haven't seen the variants yet, but the book looks great! There's very little difference between the new printer and the one I used on issues 1 and 2.

But what I really want to know are your thoughts on the book! What do you think of the enhancements (we get our first glimpse at them here)? What about the nano-skin suits? And how bout those crazy revelations at the end of the book?!?

Hope everyone likes it, the book goes to a whole 'nother level from here out!!!
Speaking of...

DeviantArt.com has advanced looks at in process upcoming stuff!

Don't forget to keep tabs on my DeviantArt page if you want a glimpse of Super Real things to come. Right now you can see the in process cover designs for the upcoming SUPER REAL SPECIAL: SUPER REAL VS THE COMIC BOOK INDUSTRY!

This is the special issue that follows issue number 3, and features artwork from other creators in stories written by me, focusing on each of our five participants genetic enhancements, where just for fun, the producers of the show set our cast against stand-ins for comic book icons.

Stay tuned for more details on the Special, including the signing of a featured big name artist to contribute, in what's destined to be one of the more wild comic book moments of 2007!!

I SAW IT ON TV: New fall shows

Okay, the fall TV season debuts are in full swing, so thought I'd weigh in quickly on what I've seen...

HEROES - NBC: The debut episode was good. I like how they weave different elements coming together, the people with powers, the professor/conspiracy plot thread, the bigger picture purpose. I don't like how it's a hodge podge of X-Men and Rising Stars/Supreme Power. We'll see.
RECOMMENDED

JERICHO - CBS: I love survival situations, zombie, nuclear war, anything that plays with those themes is interesting to me and worth a watch. That said, there was a lot to like here, but quite a bit to be leary of too. The concept and plot were great, most of the cast were good too (Gerald McRaney was great in Deadwood, and I like him from Simon and Simon back in the day, and Ashley Scott I've liked since Birds of Prey), but the script and some of the acting was suspect. As with all of these, and really any new show, the jury is still out. But I look forward to where this is going, and learning more about the mysteries the series sets up... just what has transpired?
SPOILER WARNING - My early guess, some kind of terrorist plot that's set off US nuclear silos. Otherwise, why was there no advance warning regarding the assumed nuclear explosions?
RECOMMENDED

SMITH - CBS: This one boasts an all-star cast, with movie actors in all the roles, but the theme was a heist drama, and we got a lame attempt at that last season on NBC, so I was a bit leary coming in. After watching the debut, I was beyond impressed. I loved the cast and their characters (Simon Baker and his dementedly twisted character stood out, and Lioata in the lead is fabulously reserved as the Tony Soprano of the bunch), the writing, the plotting, everything. I love how there's more to it than just the heist/challenge driving things. Many layers. It's good. Not sure how they can do this on regular basis, network series schedule though. But wow, it was great!
HIGHLY RECOMMENDED

STUDIO 60 ON THE SUNSET STRIP - NBC: So far it's been fun to watch. The writing's a bit too on the nose at times, but it's a good time. Not sure there's enough there to make a series out of, but I'll keep watching to find out.
RECOMMENDED

SUPER REAL NOTES - 9/24

ISSUE 3 IN SHOPS 9/27

Don't forget, it's finally here! Issue 3 should be in shops this Wednesday.
This is the big one, where our cast get their enhancements, Super Real nano-skin jumpsuits, reveal secrets, and bring even more revelations! (Can you say, coolest super power/enhancement ever?!?)
Oh yeah, and there's ACTION too!
Woo hoo!
Go to the NEWS page for details, including the new Felipe Smith variant cover!!

NEW PODCAST INTERVIEW

I did a phone interview the other night with KOMIKAZEE.com that's now available as an audio file/podcast HERE
CHECK IT OUT!!

NEW 5 PAGE PREVIEW ONLINE

To help spread the word about next week's release, there is a new 5 page preview of issue 3 on the web that isn't featured on the site.
You can check the preview out by visiting the fine folks at TheComicsReview.com

STAY TUNED,
jason

IN CASE U MISSED IT: Sci-Fu fo u

Over on Newsarama.com they featured a crazy cool new webcomic that debuted Friday, SCI-FU

Sci-Fu mixes animation sensibilities with flash technology to mirror printed comic book viewing on the web, and the concept is a fun mix of DJ, hip-hop, and sci-fi themes. The first issue is available now, and completely free to read, a full 21 page comic on the web. I read it and really liked it.

Though I'm not a fan of actually reading things on the web, I am a proponent of digital technology for the future of comics, and not only is Sci-Fu a great work, it's a snazzy digital package as well.

Check it out, again that link is HERE

SUPER REAL NOTES - 9/21

As much as I like to think my newsletter is the first source for news items, getting the real fans the inside track to all things Super Real, my blog is probably the actual spot for "you heard it hear first" in terms of Super Real... Well, on that theme...

ISSUE 3 confirmed in stores next Wednesday, 9/27!

It's official, I've confirmed with Diamond that Super Real issue 3 is in stock at their warehouses, and should be shipping next week to comic shops everywhere!!

After some delays and headaches with the new printer, they came through and got the books to the distributor on my drop dead date (and I literally almost dropped dead in anticipation).
As getting copies to Diamond was the key, I've yet to see a copy of the book myself. There's a good chance I'll be seeing it for the first time with the rest of you at the shops next Wednesday. (As I mentioned here before though, I did see the proofs and the book looks great.)

So, start those lines down the block in front of shops now to get your copies!! It's going to have the cast in uniform, using their enhancements, and more than a few revelations and surprises!!
Oh yeah, and quite possibly the coolest enhancement ever :)

For more details on the issue please hop over to the website, or check out this previous post

HEY DJ! - September Playlist

Haven't shared my playlist in a couple months, mostly because I hadn't picked up anything new, but I picked up a few discs lately, with my eye on a couple more...

NEW DISCS
PEACHES - IMPEACH MY BUSH
(ELECTRO, DANCE, RAP, ROCK, FUNK)
- Peaches is about as dirty and raunchy as you can get, both lyrically and musically. It's old school rap, fat beats, and electro throwback at full volume, full of in your face sounds galore. Her latest disc is as impressive as her debut TEACHES OF PEACHES, and has some downright incredible tracks.

It also features more guitar driven tracks, collaborating with Joan Jett, and Josh Homme of Queens of the Stone Age on a couple. The best track is the instantly infectious DO YA, which was in heavy rotation as the soundtrack to recent Gap ads.
HIGHLY RECOMMENDED IMPEACH MY BUSH takes all the sexed out lyrics and bass heavy fun Peaches is known for and makes it fresh and new.

THE RAPTURE - PIECES OF THE PEOPLE WE LOVE
(ROCK, ELECTRONIC, ALTERNATIVE)
- The Rapture last bowed in 2003 with the party disc ECHOES that was 80's post punk art rock meets techno dance mix tape, and I've been dying for a follow up ever since. Pieces is a challenging offering that'll take repeated listens to fully grasp. Nothing jumps out as fresh or vibrant as what was found on the previous release, but it is very good, and could yet yield some future favorites (especially since a few tracks are produced by Danger Mouse, who I've found to be not so impressive at first blush, but quite rewarding in the long run)
RECOMMENDED

MUSE - BLACK HOLES AND REVELATIONS
(ROCK, ALTERNATIVE)
- Muse return with another guitar driven sonic assault, mixing in new instruments and elements in later tracks. A great new age stadium rock record. KNIGHTS OF CYDONIA can be heard on alternative radio and is a great track.
RECOMMENDED if you've enjoyed previous Muse records, or Thom Yorke/Radiohead vocals/style.

THOM YORKE - THE ERASER
(ELECTRONIC, ELECTRO, CHILL, ROCK)
- Speaking of Radiohead, this is the first solo release from their lead singer, Thom Yorke. I was hesitant to pick this up until I heard a track, I feared it might be too mellow and striped down for me. However, every track here are programmed beats and sounds, akin to the more experimental tracks on OK COMPUTER or KID A.
RECOMMENDED Especially if you like Radiohead or their more electronic experimental sounds.

SUPER REAL NOTES - Pinups

Got a couple really nice pinups of Holly, so thought I'd share...


The first is by friend, and top notch artist Dennis Budd.

Dennis is co-creator and artist of Model Operandi, the debut of which is out later this month from After Hours Press. I really dug Model Operandi so check that one out in shops, it's a fun, sexy book that might surprise you!

This is the second pinup from Dennis, the first was a black and white group shot seen HERE, and this one is a full color shot of Holly (aka participant 1) in full Super Real uniform!




The second pin up is from frequent Super Real contributor, colorist Jukka Issakainen. This time Jukka adds the colors to Deviant Artist Funeralwind, and his take on Holly in her infamous Go-Go outfit!!

Jukka colored the winning piece from the Super Real Pin-Up-and-Coming Contest, that can be seen in issue 3 (in shops shortly).

He also colored a pinup by Daniel Campos that can be seen HERE


Thanks guys!
I'll be sure and find a home for these beautiful works in future issues of the book!

COMICS REVIEW: Ultimate Virgin!

Some quick thoughts on some books I've been reading lately, from mostly disappointing Ultimate Marvel, to mostly impressive Virgin debuts...

DEVI 1-3 VIRGIN COMICS
I'd signed up for a couple of the Virgin launch titles that sounded the most interesting, just to check them out. I didn't know what exactly to expect, but was fairly reserved in my expectations. After seeing previews of the material, and the first couple issues of the books I'd picked up, I was even less enthused, and tempted to cut the books off before I'd even read them.

This title for instance, looked very much like something of the failed Crossgen imprint, gods with gaudy golden costumes and burning insignias doing more talking than taking action. Boy am I glad I waited to read the books!

Turns out, upon delving into Devi, Virgin is crafting a first rate comic tale. The book has an impressive first issue, filled with spectacle, mythic story, and artwork and writing, though not to my usual taste, that's of a very high order.

After finishing the first three issues, I absolutely love this book, and can't wait for more. It's totally immersive, and different from most anything else you'll come across. It definitely plays to the strengths of the new companies directive for this particular line, comic book stories based around Indian mythology and by creators from around the globe.
HIGHLY RECOMMENDED

SNAKEWOMAN 1-2 VIRGIN COMICS
Gaydos, who does the art here is great, but I dislike his taste in female facial tendencies, and with a book like his previous Alias, and now this current outing, where it's completely centered around a single lead female, that's a big problem for me.

Here he renders the lead more attractively than in Alias, and I've given the book a shot, and like Devi, I'm glad I did. Unlike Devi, this one doesn't impress as much, but it's still very good so far. A dark story unfolding at a good pace, leaving one curious to see where things lead.
RECOMMENDED

ULTIMATE X-MEN 72-74
The latest arc from Kirkman highlights again what isn't working for me on his run, his stories are too straightforward and lacking in pizazz to match the artists that've worked with him so far on the book. I really think if the artwork was of the brighter, lighter, more stylized variety, that's found with Ryan Ottley, his partner on Invincible, it would really help. However, the stories are still lacking, and overall this book is continuing to be very pedestrian and disappointing, since Millar left years ago...
NOT RECOMMENDED

ULTIMATE FANTASTIC FOUR 27-32
Two arcs in these six issues here, the first, President Thor arc was decent, but the Frightful arc was all kinds of good! Overall I really enjoyed Millar's run on the title, and have been really enjoying the Ultimate FF throughout the shuffling creative teams so far.
RECOMMENDED

ULTIMATE ANNUALS
Having read 3 out of 4 of the recent Ultimate Marvel annuals, year 2, it's become clear where these rate, and it's time to weigh in...

First off, last year's inaugural batch of annuals were fabulous. Great creators, and extra sized stories that were top notch, all packages that were truly worthy of the format. So, I'd had hopes that Marvel could repeat that again this year. They didn't. I've read all but the Spider-Man annual, and each one is lacking in all the aspects I mentioned above.

The artwork is lackluster, the stories are even worse, and all feel stretched out to fit the formats extended length. The Ultimates annual was particularly, painfully, bad, for too many reasons to delve into. Hopefully the Ultimate Spidey won't disappoint, as Bendis has yet to hit a sour note on that title, but even if it's great, it still can't erase the fact that this year's batch should have never happened. It's just a watered down attempt at recreating last years success.
NOT RECOMMENDED

HEY DJ! - Eagles of Death Metal Live

LIVE ...that's one of those words that can go either way, you know like READ?
Is it "live", as in live to tell or "live", as in live and direct?!
(What the fuck am I going on about?!) Just click HERE and you can listen to EODM live (as in live music in concert man)!!!
Local alternative station 94/7FM feature snipets of live acts from time to time, and Eagles of Death Metal are a personal fave!

SUPER REAL NOTES - 9/15

INTERVIEW ON PAPERBACKREADER.COM

I did an interview for PaperbackReader a while back, that can now be seen HERE

ISSUE 3 SCHEDULE
Issue 3 is now officially on track to be in shops around 9/27, about one week later than anticipated. However, despite the further delay, I can confirm it's been printed at this point, so it truly is due in shops immanently. Honest!

Please check with your retailers and tell your friends!!

SMALL PRESS SPOTLIGHT: Mr. Scootles

MR. SCOOTLES - issue numbers 1-2

Mr. Scootles is created and published by H.C. Noel, a book that I'd heard about and been intrigued by the premise of some time ago, one of dozens of books I'd been meaning to pick up if I ever had the chance. Maybe you've heard of Mr. Scootles too? It's been featured on Newsarama.com and in Wizard Edge. Well, turns out Howie (long for H.) was a friend of a friend, and we'd started talking shop online, so we set up a book swap, and I recently received the first two issues of the series (issue 3 will be available at the upcoming SPX). The book follows two animation students who "obtain" a really old reel of film featuring a lost cartoon character from the 1930's named Mr. Scootles. From there, things get strange, and set our story into motion.

Basically Scootles asks, "What becomes of your creations when you abandon them?", and sets out to answer that question. The story balances the plot line of the students who find the film, a professor on the campus (up to nefarious deeds), the 1930's backstory of Scootles through his creator (morbidly over the edge, and riddled with insanity), and Scootles' (the black and white cartoon character himself) journey from limbo to purgatory.

The storyline is decidedly dark, exploring themes of mental health, mortality, and the afterlife, however the book is handled with a light touch. Noel employs a sharp wit and skill in the script that offsets the heavy nature of the story, and an even lighter touch with the unique cartoonish, stylized artwork. Not only does this balance the elements nicely, it's this pure creative vision at play within, that makes for the best creator-owned comics. Noel's personality is ingrained in every element of the book, and that's what makes Scootles so strong, it's a vision and story unlike anything we've seen before. In a medium that blends words and pictures, to me, that's the highest praise a comic book can achieve. Comics as art.

Okay, I got a little heavy there, but my point is not that Scootles is fine art, but that it does what I look for from comics, it brings someone's crazy ideas to life, in a truly unique and interesting way. I can't wait for more!

HIGHLY RECOMMENDED - Great concept, and themes. Heavy dark stuff, but told in a fun, witty way, with nicely stylized artwork.


You can preview the books, and learn more at the creator's website, HERE

IN CASE U MISSED IT: Ross Campbell

Over on Newsarama.com there's a piece on one of my favorite new artist/creators, Ross Campbell.

Ross recently had his zombie manga, The Abandoned, released by Tokyopop, which was all kinds of crazy good.

He's also very active on DeviantArt, and his artwork is always impressive, he's definitely a creator to watch.

I myself still need to pick up his Wet Moon from Oni, but if you aren't familiar with him... what are you waiting for?
Check the links!!

Or check out my review for The Abandoned HERE

TALES FROM NETFLIX - Sars Wars: Bangkok Zombie Crisis

Tales From Netflix are DVD picks that are off the beaten path, that I really enjoy, and wish the rest of the world would try... ha ha!!

Title - SARS Wars: Bangkok Zombie Crisis
Rating - not rated
Length - 95 minutes

Think this one sounds crazy??!?
It is!!
Crazy good too!

Sars Wars is a Thai film, and is subtitled, it's also a zombie movie of sorts, but as with other recent indy zombie outings (Dead and Breakfast, Undead), it puts a unique spin on the genre and/or uses zombies as an element in the story more than making it the main focus. So, if you're looking for a straight up zombie flick, Sars Wars doesn't quite deliver, but it does have plenty of zombie action, and some new takes on the genre as well.



The story centers on a hostage school girl, and her gangster father of sorts, looking to sidestep the kidnappers ransom, by employing a wily friends services. Enter our hero, Khun Krabi, a young man who just happens to wear bizarre spandex and crazy accessories... the fact that he splits his pants while wielding his sword fast enough to disarm, and defrock, the hired goons and everyone in the room should give you some indication of the tone. Sars Wars is a slap stick comedy, with horror, gore, action, and crazy ideas thrown around at breakneck pace.

Basically, Khun Krabi, and his elder master must navigate a condo filled with super Sars infected zombies, to find and rescue the girl from her captors. Along the way, avoiding and eventually joining forces with the doctors and commandos sent in to contain the outbreak.

But wait, oh yes, there's more, much more! For instance, besides the cool, wild, and vibrant cast of characters, actors, zombies, and CG creatures, besides the awesome character designs and costumes, besides the zippy editing, and crafty camerawork, there's also animation. The movie opens with a fun animation sequence, and also features a couple more during the film, acting as flashback sequences! The animation is well done, and a nice blend of western and eastern styles. Sort of like the Kill Bill animation sequence, only it's Sars Wars, so you know, more fun, and goofy.

If you enjoy genre bending, in your face, cutting edge cinema, or zombies, or action, or slapstick comedy movies, Sars Wars: Bangkok Zombie Crisis is for you! A quote from the movie, "We have zombies, a bomb, and now a giant snake..." kind of sums it all up!!



HIGHLY RECOMMENDED - Seek this one out, it's well worth the effort!!

You can learn more about the movie, including viewing the trailer, at it's site HERE

Check out previous Tales From Netflix:
House of 9
2001 Maniacs