NEWS
7-31-10: Star Wars In Concert Puts Focus On The Music!
One of the big reasons for the success of Star Wars in 1977 was the music that not only introduced the film, but help set the tone and mood of the epic space adventure. The films music, composed by John Williams lives on in a fresh and exciting way… Star Wars In Concert!
Performing in an arena near you, Star Wars In Concert is a full orchestra playing some of the memorable score from all six films. But not only do you listen to the music, there is a series of scenes edited brilliantly to fit the music. The screens showing the films are some of the biggest and clearest screens ever created. No matter where you siy, you still haven't seen Star Wars this big! But that isn’t all you get! Actor Anthony Daniels (C-3P0) introduces each movement, setting the stage for a brilliant sight and sound experience. The orchestra conducted by Dirk Brosse, deliver over two hours of music and memories. The show recently played in Connecticut where the Indy Cast’s Mitch Hallock and his son Owen took Matman and his daughter Beky to see the show.
“I couldn’t believe how cool the show was,” Matman tells! “I’ve always felt the music was as important to the saga as the special effects were and you see that here. The scene when Luke looks into the twin sons of Tattooine and the music swells from underneath him, still gives me shivers.”
Not only do you get a full audio / video presentation, you also get to see props and costumes from the films including Chewbacca’s suit (for some reason stuck near the men’s room), Han Solo encased in Carbonite and assorted guns and weapons.
For more information, including upcoming tour dates, click here!
Performing in an arena near you, Star Wars In Concert is a full orchestra playing some of the memorable score from all six films. But not only do you listen to the music, there is a series of scenes edited brilliantly to fit the music. The screens showing the films are some of the biggest and clearest screens ever created. No matter where you siy, you still haven't seen Star Wars this big! But that isn’t all you get! Actor Anthony Daniels (C-3P0) introduces each movement, setting the stage for a brilliant sight and sound experience. The orchestra conducted by Dirk Brosse, deliver over two hours of music and memories. The show recently played in Connecticut where the Indy Cast’s Mitch Hallock and his son Owen took Matman and his daughter Beky to see the show.
“I couldn’t believe how cool the show was,” Matman tells! “I’ve always felt the music was as important to the saga as the special effects were and you see that here. The scene when Luke looks into the twin sons of Tattooine and the music swells from underneath him, still gives me shivers.”
Not only do you get a full audio / video presentation, you also get to see props and costumes from the films including Chewbacca’s suit (for some reason stuck near the men’s room), Han Solo encased in Carbonite and assorted guns and weapons.
For more information, including upcoming tour dates, click here!
7-30-10: Sky Pirates In Previews!!
Our good friends over at Free Lunch Comics are proud to announce their latest graphic novel, Sky Pirates of Valendor: Volume 1!
Sky Pirates of Valendor: Volume 1 available for pre-order through Diamond Distribution. The 148 page graphic novel appears on page 284 of the August Previews Catalog and carries the order number: AUG101028 SKY PIRATES VALENDOR GN.
Sky Pirates of Valendor recounts the debut adventure of Pirate Captain Tobin Manheim and the rest of the crew of the Rogue's Revenge. Set in the fantasy world of Valendor where giant continents float on oceans of sky! A mix of steampunk and high fantasy where magic co-exists with futuristic technology, Valendor is a fully realized world, with complex social structures, a guild-driven economic system, and a host of political intrigue.
Sky Pirates is the brainchild of Everett Soares, the award winning author of several stories appearing in Comicbook Artists Guild's publications. He has won the Best Writer Award in CAG for the last two years. Sky Pirates debuted in and placed as the runner up in the 2007 Edition of Small Press Idol, a talent competition for independent comics projects run by Ian Shires. Shortly after the competition, Sky Pirates secured a publishing deal with Free Lunch Comics.
Penciller Brian Brinlee illustrated the epic story. Soares and Brinlee have collaborated for years on Sky Pirates of Valendor and other projects. The inking team consists of Michael W. Kellar, Alex Rivera and Keith Murphey. New York City based illustrator James Rodriguez provided the cover art for the graphic novel.
Free Lunch Comics has been publishing since 1998 and features several titles in addition to Sky Pirates, including: Bigger, Only in Whispers, Pork 'N Beans, Beyond the Kuiper Belt, The Original Nutty Funsters, Cookie Bear and the Good Girl Art of Norman Katz.
To celebrate the inclusion of Sky Pirates of Valendor in the Previews Catalog, the various creators of the book will be appearing at comic stores throughout New York and New England. A partial list follows:
July 28, 2010 Friendly Neighborhood Comics, Bellingham, MA featuring Creator Everett Soares
July 31, 2010 Harrison’s Comics, Salem MA featuring Creator Everett Soares
August 4, 2010 Most Excellent Collectibles, Enfield CT with Free Lunch Comics President Matt C. Ryan
August 7, 2010 Casablanca Comics, Portland, ME featuring Creator Everett Soares
August 8, 2010 Double Midnight, Manchester, NH featuring Creator Everett Soares
August 14, 2010 Comic Monstore, Salisbury NC with Michael W. Kellar, contributing Inker
August 14, 2010 That's Entertainment, Worcester MA featuring Creator Everett Soares
August 21, 2010 New England Comics, Brockton MA featuring Creator Everett Soares
August 22, 2010 Modern Myths, Northampton MA with Keith Murphey, contributing Inker and Art Director
August 22, 2010 Alternate Universe, Milford CT featuring Creator Everett Soares
August 28, 2010 Jetpack Comics, Rochester NH featuring Creator Everett Soares
Once again, the order code is AUG101028 SKY PIRATES VALENDOR GN. Use this number to pre-order your copy of the book through your local comic store. Use www.comicstorelocator.com to find the store nearest you!
Sky Pirates of Valendor: Volume 1 available for pre-order through Diamond Distribution. The 148 page graphic novel appears on page 284 of the August Previews Catalog and carries the order number: AUG101028 SKY PIRATES VALENDOR GN.
Sky Pirates of Valendor recounts the debut adventure of Pirate Captain Tobin Manheim and the rest of the crew of the Rogue's Revenge. Set in the fantasy world of Valendor where giant continents float on oceans of sky! A mix of steampunk and high fantasy where magic co-exists with futuristic technology, Valendor is a fully realized world, with complex social structures, a guild-driven economic system, and a host of political intrigue.
Sky Pirates is the brainchild of Everett Soares, the award winning author of several stories appearing in Comicbook Artists Guild's publications. He has won the Best Writer Award in CAG for the last two years. Sky Pirates debuted in and placed as the runner up in the 2007 Edition of Small Press Idol, a talent competition for independent comics projects run by Ian Shires. Shortly after the competition, Sky Pirates secured a publishing deal with Free Lunch Comics.
Penciller Brian Brinlee illustrated the epic story. Soares and Brinlee have collaborated for years on Sky Pirates of Valendor and other projects. The inking team consists of Michael W. Kellar, Alex Rivera and Keith Murphey. New York City based illustrator James Rodriguez provided the cover art for the graphic novel.
Free Lunch Comics has been publishing since 1998 and features several titles in addition to Sky Pirates, including: Bigger, Only in Whispers, Pork 'N Beans, Beyond the Kuiper Belt, The Original Nutty Funsters, Cookie Bear and the Good Girl Art of Norman Katz.
To celebrate the inclusion of Sky Pirates of Valendor in the Previews Catalog, the various creators of the book will be appearing at comic stores throughout New York and New England. A partial list follows:
July 28, 2010 Friendly Neighborhood Comics, Bellingham, MA featuring Creator Everett Soares
July 31, 2010 Harrison’s Comics, Salem MA featuring Creator Everett Soares
August 4, 2010 Most Excellent Collectibles, Enfield CT with Free Lunch Comics President Matt C. Ryan
August 7, 2010 Casablanca Comics, Portland, ME featuring Creator Everett Soares
August 8, 2010 Double Midnight, Manchester, NH featuring Creator Everett Soares
August 14, 2010 Comic Monstore, Salisbury NC with Michael W. Kellar, contributing Inker
August 14, 2010 That's Entertainment, Worcester MA featuring Creator Everett Soares
August 21, 2010 New England Comics, Brockton MA featuring Creator Everett Soares
August 22, 2010 Modern Myths, Northampton MA with Keith Murphey, contributing Inker and Art Director
August 22, 2010 Alternate Universe, Milford CT featuring Creator Everett Soares
August 28, 2010 Jetpack Comics, Rochester NH featuring Creator Everett Soares
Once again, the order code is AUG101028 SKY PIRATES VALENDOR GN. Use this number to pre-order your copy of the book through your local comic store. Use www.comicstorelocator.com to find the store nearest you!
7-29-10: The French Connection Takes Down Metroid In Part 2 Of The NEStacular Summer Challenge!
July is coming to a close, which means there's only a few days left to beat the NES classic "Metroid" in part 2 of our NEStacular Summer Challenge! Our friends from France Sem and Sparkster beat the game and sent us in the pic to the left. So far they're the only ones to make it through "Metroid," which is an amazingly difficult game.
We'll see if anyone else completes the game in the next couple days, before we move on to "The Legend of Zelda" for August. Congrats to Sem and Sparkster for mastering Metroid!
We'll see if anyone else completes the game in the next couple days, before we move on to "The Legend of Zelda" for August. Congrats to Sem and Sparkster for mastering Metroid!
7-28-10: Matman Wants You To Get Involved In Bondage!
In our continued efforts to bring you more (or an excuse to do something else for the ‘sake’ of the show), we are getting into ‘Bondage’!
Like our Summer Reading, Watching and Gaming projects, we love to get all our friends involved and share in the fun of cool stuff. Starting in mid August, we will all be taking a trip to exotic locations, dangerous destinations and hang out with (literally) some of the most beautiful women who ever walked the planet!
‘Bondage’ will take a look at every James Bond film; from Dr. No to Quantum of Solace. Together we’ll discover the hits and misses, see and learn some things we may not have known and discuss the film on the message boards in a special ‘Bondage’ thread! Our goal for this is to turn someone new onto the coolness of 007 or to reinvigorate your dormant passion for Bond, James Bond!
My credentials? Well, I have been a James Bond fan since 1973 when I first watched ‘On Her Majesty’s Secret Service’ with my dad on the ABC Friday Night Movie. After that, I read every book (including the original novels) I could find, and searched for everything I could about the actors and everyone involved. I have two daughters who have seen all the films, have their favorites and know quite a bit of trivia as well.
Each episode of ‘Bondage’ will not only break down the particular film but we’ll also do a running count. I call it ‘Dead, Red, Head and Bed’. This will chronicle how many bad guys he kills directly (Dead), how many injuries he sustains (Red), how much he drinks and smokes (Head) and how many women he ….well you know! This is all what makes James Bond so cool! And I’ll also be ranking them in order of where I believe they stand. There are currently 23 Bond films (I count Never say Never Again) so each one will be placed in order. I want you to do this as well.
So your homework is within the next two weeks to watch ‘Dr. No’! Many On Demand systems have a James Bond section, Blockbuster has it, Netflix can get it or you can even buy it real cheap!
Lets have fun with this one kids. Don’t make me watch these movies all by myself! The things I will do for Secret Identity!
Click here to go to the Official ‘Bondage’ thread!
Like our Summer Reading, Watching and Gaming projects, we love to get all our friends involved and share in the fun of cool stuff. Starting in mid August, we will all be taking a trip to exotic locations, dangerous destinations and hang out with (literally) some of the most beautiful women who ever walked the planet!
‘Bondage’ will take a look at every James Bond film; from Dr. No to Quantum of Solace. Together we’ll discover the hits and misses, see and learn some things we may not have known and discuss the film on the message boards in a special ‘Bondage’ thread! Our goal for this is to turn someone new onto the coolness of 007 or to reinvigorate your dormant passion for Bond, James Bond!
My credentials? Well, I have been a James Bond fan since 1973 when I first watched ‘On Her Majesty’s Secret Service’ with my dad on the ABC Friday Night Movie. After that, I read every book (including the original novels) I could find, and searched for everything I could about the actors and everyone involved. I have two daughters who have seen all the films, have their favorites and know quite a bit of trivia as well.
Each episode of ‘Bondage’ will not only break down the particular film but we’ll also do a running count. I call it ‘Dead, Red, Head and Bed’. This will chronicle how many bad guys he kills directly (Dead), how many injuries he sustains (Red), how much he drinks and smokes (Head) and how many women he ….well you know! This is all what makes James Bond so cool! And I’ll also be ranking them in order of where I believe they stand. There are currently 23 Bond films (I count Never say Never Again) so each one will be placed in order. I want you to do this as well.
So your homework is within the next two weeks to watch ‘Dr. No’! Many On Demand systems have a James Bond section, Blockbuster has it, Netflix can get it or you can even buy it real cheap!
Lets have fun with this one kids. Don’t make me watch these movies all by myself! The things I will do for Secret Identity!
Click here to go to the Official ‘Bondage’ thread!
7-27-10: Behold The Latest DC Universe Online Trailer!
Wowzers. DC debuted a new trailer for their upcoming "DC Universe Online MMO" at Comic-Con this past weekend. It is amazing. The game comes out for PC and PS3 on November 2. It will cost you $15 a month, but after seeing the trailer, I am sorely tempted. You can sign up to be in the beta by clicking here.
7-26-10: The Hayestronaut Teams With Arcana Studios For Dionysus Wept!
Eric C Hayes, writer of the THE OUTER SPACE MEN OGN, announced that Arcana Studios will be the home for his next comic book project. Slated as a two volume graphic novel series, with the first to be completed later this year, DIONYSUS WEPT seeks to expand the reader's internal universe with Nazi-era eugenics experimentation, brutal murder and psychedelic mind travel.
Hayes's previous book, THE OUTER SPACE MEN, feature Russ Manning Award nominated artist Marc Borstel and sparked the re-release of the classic Colorforms toy. Hayes and Borstel have once again teamed up to create a BOYS FROM BRAZIL meets FEAR AND LOATHING IN LAS VEGAS story that will have comic fans questioning reality itself. The book also features stunning cover art from veteran comic artist John Van Fleet.
Arcana began in 2004 as a studio. Since then Arcana has established itself as an innovative leader in developing content in various mediums. Working in websites, comics and graphic novels, video games, short-form animation and live action shorts, toys and merchandise, as well as feature length films, Arcana focusses on a transmedia approach to the the scaffolding process of developing brands and intellectual properties.
According to Hayes, "Due to the graphic nature of my book, Arcana Studios is a natural fit. I'm truly honored to have my work be a part of Arcana's impressive library of books."
You can monitor the progress of DIONYSUS WEPT by visiting Hayes's blog at dionysuswept.blogspot.com or www.arcanacomics.com.
Hayes's previous book, THE OUTER SPACE MEN, feature Russ Manning Award nominated artist Marc Borstel and sparked the re-release of the classic Colorforms toy. Hayes and Borstel have once again teamed up to create a BOYS FROM BRAZIL meets FEAR AND LOATHING IN LAS VEGAS story that will have comic fans questioning reality itself. The book also features stunning cover art from veteran comic artist John Van Fleet.
Arcana began in 2004 as a studio. Since then Arcana has established itself as an innovative leader in developing content in various mediums. Working in websites, comics and graphic novels, video games, short-form animation and live action shorts, toys and merchandise, as well as feature length films, Arcana focusses on a transmedia approach to the the scaffolding process of developing brands and intellectual properties.
According to Hayes, "Due to the graphic nature of my book, Arcana Studios is a natural fit. I'm truly honored to have my work be a part of Arcana's impressive library of books."
You can monitor the progress of DIONYSUS WEPT by visiting Hayes's blog at dionysuswept.blogspot.com or www.arcanacomics.com.
7-25-10: Filmmakers Present Dead Soldier
We have watched Dynamite Entertainment go from a small publisher dealing in licensed properties to a company publishing almost 20 titles each month. But not just publishing comics, they are publishing books for every taste, genre and style. They seem to be taking more chances than most companies twice their size. After all who else would publish a supernatural comic that starts off in The Great War!
The Great War (or World War One) has always been a bit neglected in comic history. But in September that is about to change with John Moore Presents: Dead Soldier, a four issue series from Dynamite.
Written by filmmakers John Moore (Max Payne, The Omen) and Richie Smyth, Dead Soldier is the story about American Colonel John Donner and the last days of World War One. Following a massive German attack, Donner ends up the only survivor in his squad. Lost in a maze of trenches, badly wounded and without food or medicine, Donner is transformed into a creature of unthinkable power and begins to avenge the deaths of his fallen comrades. But this vengeance doesn’t end on the battlefields of 1917 Europe, it continues to the current ‘War On Terror’!
Joining Moore and Smyth is artist Dean Hyrapiet and Liquid Comics and feature dark and moody covers by Romek Delimata.
John Moore Presents: Dead Soldier # 1 (out of 4) is a full color comic for $3.99.
The Great War (or World War One) has always been a bit neglected in comic history. But in September that is about to change with John Moore Presents: Dead Soldier, a four issue series from Dynamite.
Written by filmmakers John Moore (Max Payne, The Omen) and Richie Smyth, Dead Soldier is the story about American Colonel John Donner and the last days of World War One. Following a massive German attack, Donner ends up the only survivor in his squad. Lost in a maze of trenches, badly wounded and without food or medicine, Donner is transformed into a creature of unthinkable power and begins to avenge the deaths of his fallen comrades. But this vengeance doesn’t end on the battlefields of 1917 Europe, it continues to the current ‘War On Terror’!
Joining Moore and Smyth is artist Dean Hyrapiet and Liquid Comics and feature dark and moody covers by Romek Delimata.
John Moore Presents: Dead Soldier # 1 (out of 4) is a full color comic for $3.99.
7-25-10: Black Dynamite Review
Brian saw Michael Jai White's “Black Dynamite” this weekend, and he will not rest until you see it too. Click here to read why you need to stop what you're doing and check this movie out now.
7-24-10: Check out G-Man's Acting Debut In The Outer Boroughs!
You may have heard us talk about our good friend Eugene Lehnert's ("Armageddon for Andy") show "The Outer Boroughs," which ran for a few episodes on Channel 101 NY in 2008. It was a hysterical show about two roommates who move into a Queens apartment and start having paranormal experiences. After a bit of a hiatus, the show is back, and our own friend Chris Giarrusso has stepped into one of the lead roles! Chris plays Pete, one of the roommates, and in this episode, they deal with the strange source of a power outage in the apartment.
Click on the player below to watch the episode, then head over to Vimeo and leave your feedback for Eugene!
Click on the player below to watch the episode, then head over to Vimeo and leave your feedback for Eugene!
7-23-10: Mothers, Don't Your Girls Grow Up To Be Rockers
Matman had a nice quiet evening to himself and decided to get all loud and crazy with the "The Runaways"! This music bio pic depicts the fast career of the first rockin’ all girl band ‘The Runaways’! Staring the girl from Twilight, and the kid actress with the real big blue eyes, Matman got ready to relive the crazy 1970’s with Cherie Currie, Joan Jett, Lita Ford and Sandy West. What did he think? Click here to see!
For a trailer for the film, click here.
For a clip of the real Runaways singing Cherry Bomb, click here!
For a trailer for the film, click here.
For a clip of the real Runaways singing Cherry Bomb, click here!
7-22-10: Let's Go To War, Independent Style!
One of the most ambitious projects in recent comic book memory has got to be the ‘War Of The Independents!’ Creator Dave Ryan started the ‘War’ a few years back and had some bumps along the way that may have slowed his progress, but not stopped him in the least.
The biggest challenge for a project of this magnitude is the use of creator owned characters, hence the ‘Independents’ part of the title. Not only has Dave been writing and drawing the books, he has also had to play the role of lawyer. Each character used belongs to a particular creator (example: Billy Tucci owns Shi, Richard Comely owns Captain Canuck) so details and legalities need to be worked out prior to characters use. Each creator of course wants their character to be featured in a way that builds up their worth and reputation, and may have certain stipulations about the usage. After all, the naïve young hero Lazerman shouldn’t get too close to the Pro or Bomb Queen, but maybe spend some quality time with Editor Girl, Gumby or Cerebus. These are all things that Dave has to consider as he tries to tell the best story he can.
“I met Dave a few years back when ‘War Of The Independents’ was just getting started,” said Matman who is a fan and reader of about 99% of the books participants, “so I know how much work Dave has put into this. It’s great to see it really get momentum and have a planned release date of October!”
The release of the first issue coincides with the New York Comic Con! But to help Dave really get this baby rolling, he’s enlisted the help of you! If you go to www.kickstarter.com and type in ‘War Of The Independents’ in the search, you’ll not only see a video presentation by Dave, but some of the incredible images Dave has worked up and some of the pages he recently inked. If you donate at certain levels, there are incentives like prints, autographed books, and maybe a chance to be drawn into the book.
“I want this book yesterday,” an impatient Matman declares, “so I’m going to do my part and donate. I’m not sure what level, but it looks like I’ll be joining the legendary Captain Canuck! I hope all Secret Identity listeners get involved in this project. For everyone who complains about nothing unique anymore in comics, here you go!”
This week, we hope to have an interview with Dave Ryan and hear his thoughts on a war that we can all enjoy! Click here to talk about the ‘War’, your favorite ‘indie’ characters or what you like the best about Dave Ryan.
The biggest challenge for a project of this magnitude is the use of creator owned characters, hence the ‘Independents’ part of the title. Not only has Dave been writing and drawing the books, he has also had to play the role of lawyer. Each character used belongs to a particular creator (example: Billy Tucci owns Shi, Richard Comely owns Captain Canuck) so details and legalities need to be worked out prior to characters use. Each creator of course wants their character to be featured in a way that builds up their worth and reputation, and may have certain stipulations about the usage. After all, the naïve young hero Lazerman shouldn’t get too close to the Pro or Bomb Queen, but maybe spend some quality time with Editor Girl, Gumby or Cerebus. These are all things that Dave has to consider as he tries to tell the best story he can.
“I met Dave a few years back when ‘War Of The Independents’ was just getting started,” said Matman who is a fan and reader of about 99% of the books participants, “so I know how much work Dave has put into this. It’s great to see it really get momentum and have a planned release date of October!”
The release of the first issue coincides with the New York Comic Con! But to help Dave really get this baby rolling, he’s enlisted the help of you! If you go to www.kickstarter.com and type in ‘War Of The Independents’ in the search, you’ll not only see a video presentation by Dave, but some of the incredible images Dave has worked up and some of the pages he recently inked. If you donate at certain levels, there are incentives like prints, autographed books, and maybe a chance to be drawn into the book.
“I want this book yesterday,” an impatient Matman declares, “so I’m going to do my part and donate. I’m not sure what level, but it looks like I’ll be joining the legendary Captain Canuck! I hope all Secret Identity listeners get involved in this project. For everyone who complains about nothing unique anymore in comics, here you go!”
This week, we hope to have an interview with Dave Ryan and hear his thoughts on a war that we can all enjoy! Click here to talk about the ‘War’, your favorite ‘indie’ characters or what you like the best about Dave Ryan.
7-21-10: Baltimore Welcomes Comic Fans To Comic Con
With all eyes on San Diego (for the obvious reason) this week, there is a big little show that is happening on the East Coast and is a mere month away!
The 11th Annual Baltimore Comic Con is taking place on August 28 – 29th at the Baltimore Convention Center. Many of the top creators will be there as well as well as companies like Dark Horse, Image and Top Cow to name a few. The guest list is shaping up to be some of the best talent out there.
The list includes Secret Identity friends Mike Allred, Joe Caramanga, Jimmy Palmiotti, Amanda Connor, Cliff Chaing, Jamal Igle and so many more! One of the big guests on the list is Todd McFarlane, who will be making a rare con appearance. Great names like Barry Kitson, Frank Cho, Geoff Johns, and Steve Niles will also be in attendance to talk about their projects, draw a sketch (if the're an artist) and sell their studd... if they have stuff to sell.
Information, including tickets, directions and the ever growing guest list just go to www.baltimorecomiccon.com.
“We had friends go last year and they loved it!” Matman said, “I was told it’s a great venue, the creators are all accessible and there are hotels and food within walking distance. In fact, Brian and I may be taking a trip down there this year. Yup, I just said it!”
And not only are there guests galore, the Harvey Awards 2010 Awards will be handed out on Saturday evening.
More information to come…
The 11th Annual Baltimore Comic Con is taking place on August 28 – 29th at the Baltimore Convention Center. Many of the top creators will be there as well as well as companies like Dark Horse, Image and Top Cow to name a few. The guest list is shaping up to be some of the best talent out there.
The list includes Secret Identity friends Mike Allred, Joe Caramanga, Jimmy Palmiotti, Amanda Connor, Cliff Chaing, Jamal Igle and so many more! One of the big guests on the list is Todd McFarlane, who will be making a rare con appearance. Great names like Barry Kitson, Frank Cho, Geoff Johns, and Steve Niles will also be in attendance to talk about their projects, draw a sketch (if the're an artist) and sell their studd... if they have stuff to sell.
Information, including tickets, directions and the ever growing guest list just go to www.baltimorecomiccon.com.
“We had friends go last year and they loved it!” Matman said, “I was told it’s a great venue, the creators are all accessible and there are hotels and food within walking distance. In fact, Brian and I may be taking a trip down there this year. Yup, I just said it!”
And not only are there guests galore, the Harvey Awards 2010 Awards will be handed out on Saturday evening.
More information to come…
7-20-10: Ahoy, Set Sail For Valendor... And Get SWAG!
Not too long ago, Previews made some changes in their sales threshold leaving many comics and creators without a place to sell their books. What this means is that a book had to guarantee a certain amount of sales in order to be listed.
Our good friends over at ‘Sky Pirates Of Valendor’ have some creative ways to get ready for their August listing in Previews, but also reward those who help spread the word.
“In preparation for our solicitation in Previews in August,” said Susan Soares. “We are currently recruiting fans to be members of the Valendor Dream Team! The goal of the Dream Team is to help us achieve our sales goal and spread the word about Sky Pirates of Valendor!.”
What Susan and husband Everett Soares are looking for are fans to post on their blogs, web sites and Facebook pages. An important step (probably the most important) is to let your local comic book shop know how cool the book is and encourage them to order.
“If you’ve read the book, you know that Everett and artist Brian Brinlee have created an incredible world of fun and imagination,” said Matman. “And now it’s up to us to help spread the word. This is a great opportunity for my favorite pirates to become your favorite pirates.”
There are some great opportunities for fans to get some cool ‘booty’ including an Exclusive Valendor Dream Team t-shirt, a gift bag of promotional items from Sky Pirates of Valendor, a subscription to the 2nd chapter of Sky Pirates of Valendor, set to release later this year, acknowledgement on the website (set to be redesigned in the coming months).
If you’re interested in being a Dream Team member, please send an email with your name, city and local / favorite comic book store to evnsue96@msn.com. The deadline is August 31st!
Our good friends over at ‘Sky Pirates Of Valendor’ have some creative ways to get ready for their August listing in Previews, but also reward those who help spread the word.
“In preparation for our solicitation in Previews in August,” said Susan Soares. “We are currently recruiting fans to be members of the Valendor Dream Team! The goal of the Dream Team is to help us achieve our sales goal and spread the word about Sky Pirates of Valendor!.”
What Susan and husband Everett Soares are looking for are fans to post on their blogs, web sites and Facebook pages. An important step (probably the most important) is to let your local comic book shop know how cool the book is and encourage them to order.
“If you’ve read the book, you know that Everett and artist Brian Brinlee have created an incredible world of fun and imagination,” said Matman. “And now it’s up to us to help spread the word. This is a great opportunity for my favorite pirates to become your favorite pirates.”
There are some great opportunities for fans to get some cool ‘booty’ including an Exclusive Valendor Dream Team t-shirt, a gift bag of promotional items from Sky Pirates of Valendor, a subscription to the 2nd chapter of Sky Pirates of Valendor, set to release later this year, acknowledgement on the website (set to be redesigned in the coming months).
If you’re interested in being a Dream Team member, please send an email with your name, city and local / favorite comic book store to evnsue96@msn.com. The deadline is August 31st!
7-19-10: "Aw Yeah Archie?"
One of the most enjoyable books month after month has got to be DC’s Tiny Titans. Art Baltazar and Franco have done an incredible job making a comic book teeming with Titans history and a pleasure to look at for readers of any age. Like Chris Giarrusso, Baltazar draws incredible images that just seem to make you feel good. Well get ready for a cross over event that makes perfect sense!
Details have not yet been released, but according to sources, the Tiny Titans will be teaming up with a ‘tiny’ version of Archie, Jughead, Reggie, Betty and Veronica. According to the ever positive Art Baltazar “…it’s the crossover comic book event of the new millennium!” The ever quotable Franco described it as “epicness!”
Details have not yet been released, but according to sources, the Tiny Titans will be teaming up with a ‘tiny’ version of Archie, Jughead, Reggie, Betty and Veronica. According to the ever positive Art Baltazar “…it’s the crossover comic book event of the new millennium!” The ever quotable Franco described it as “epicness!”
7-18-10: Now Everyone Can Listen to Jimmy!
Most of you are probably familiar with Jimmy Palmiotti for the great books he works on with fellow creator Justin Gray (Jonah Hex, Power Girl, Time Bomb, Uncle Sam and the Freedom Fighters, etc.). And even though we talk about it all the time on Secret identity, you might not know what a funny and entertaining guy Jimmy is to talk to. As of this week however, Jimmy has begun sharing his insanity with the masses, as the Listen to Jimmy podcast debuted. Done in conjunction with the guys at Where Monsters Dwell, Listen to Jimmy is a solid 45 minutes of Jimmy sharing his views on everything from comics to Mel Gibson's current problems. It's well worth listening to, and it looks like it will be an ongoing weekly show.
So, click here and check out the first episode of Listen to Jimmy, then make some space on your weekly podcast list for what' sure to be one of the more entertaining shows out there (just like Secret Identity!).
So, click here and check out the first episode of Listen to Jimmy, then make some space on your weekly podcast list for what' sure to be one of the more entertaining shows out there (just like Secret Identity!).
7-17-10: Saturday Moring Rant With Matman
As we are a little more than half way through the year I decided to make a mid year ‘Matman State Of The Union.’ Please remember, these are my thoughts / opinions and are not right or wrong, just the way I feel. The great thing about comics like music and art, it’s all subjective.
Mainstay books like Justice League, Justice Society, Titans and Teen Titans have become impossible for me to read lately. The writers on JLA and JSA don’t seem to have a grasp of what makes these teams so good. And the Titans books just can’t seem to get going! They’ve done the Cyborg is bad and ‘we need to get along’ thing over and over! I think these four books are going to be replaced by the much more enjoyable Avengers books.
I’m become less loyal to characters and more of a creator guy. Instead of looking for the cover logo, I now read who was involved! Whatever Jimmy Palmiotti and Justin Gray, Sterling Gates, Ed Brubaker, Jonathan Hickman and Joshua Dysart write I’ll get, no questions asked. And if Jamal Igle, Amanda Connor, Barry Kitson, Tony Millionaire, Alex Ross and Don Kramer draw it, I’ll buy it.
There needs to be more books like Dust Wars, Chew, Hack / Slash, Atomic Robo, Pet Avengers and The Tick. These books get it by being unique, fun and a pleasure to read and worth the hard earned money.
Every time I finish any book by Chris Giarrusso or Tiny Titans I think, “why aren’t all comic books like this?” I still want Chris G. to do a Little Archie comic. How cool would that be?
Why is Grant Morrison still writing Batman? I don’t know anyone who likes his run. So get someone else please!!!
Thank God for the ladies! Batgirl, Zatanna, Power Girl, Wonder Woman, Heralds, Supergirl and Birds Of Prey are some of the best written and drawn comics out there. Give them a try!
Do we really need all these Green Hornet and Deadpool books? E-NUFF!!!!
Magnus Robot Fighter is back! Please don’t screw this one up.
Here is an interesting question I’d like to have answered. Is the DC Multiverse back?
Price point! This is becoming an issue for many readers; more than not. $3.99 is the cut off point for many fans. Brian and many of our friends have cut their buying out of financial necessity. Instead of the companies telling us there is nothing they can do, they should try something! A few more ads? Less pages? Try something. I’ll give up that useless Dan DiDio rant page for an ad for 204 Revolutionary War Soldiers.
Next weekend we’ll be hearing from San Diego all the great things that the companies will be throwing at us; some good and some bad. We’ll hear how ‘this writer’ will bring ‘this character’ back to the glory days and we’ll hear all about the movies coming our way in the next few years.
To comment, click here!
Remember, without great comics we can’t get mediocre comic book movies!
7-16-10: The Calling: Cthulhu Chronicles #1 Review
This week Brian checked out BOOM! Studios’ new horror series “The Calling: Cthulhu Chronicles” #1. Was it all of the Lovecraftian goodness he was hoping for? Click here to read the review and find out.
7-15-10: Image United Is NOT So United!
In the 1970’s, there was a series of films called ‘In Search Of…’. These films took events like Noah’s Ark, UFO’s and Jesus and traced back their origins and made cases for the facts that the event or person did exist. In 2010, it may be a good time to bring back ‘In Search Of’ and trace the lost event known as ‘Image United’!
In 2009, Image released with great fanfare, ‘Image United’ # 1. This six issue series would not only unite characters like Savage Dragon, Spawn and Team Youngblood, but it would also reunite creators and Image founders Whilce Portacio, Jim Valentino, Marc Silvestri, Rob Liefeld, Erik Larsen and Todd McFarlane. Only co - founder Jim Lee wouldn’t be directly involved, but he provided a cover or two. Joining this endeavor was writer Robert Kirkman who would chronicle the tale of a guy named Fortress who was plagued with visions of the Image Universes demise. The cool thing about this was that all the characters would be drawn by their creator. This was something that got fans kinda excited!
Two issues came out (with a out of place zero issue) and most were in agreement that the art was pretty good, but the story was a little shaky. Sales on the book weren’t bad; # 1 sold about 42,000 copies with number two selling almost 30,000 copies. With only two issues in, fans decided to wait until the series concluded before passing judgment.
But here is the problem… no more books!
Image United # 3 is now seven months late! By the time the issue hits (if it ever does. It was rescheduled for a May release) do you think fans will even care? Rob Liefeld twittered the following statement, "It goes without saying that Image United is a massive embarrassment. Damn shame the enthusiasm for the book not shared by all.”
So now the blame game begins! This could be even better than the entire series. Who is responsible for this debacle? All the creators involved are known for delays in their own projects so it’s hard to blame any one person. Apparently Rob Liefeld doesn’t blame himself at all, so where do we go from here? And more important, do any fans care?
When ‘Image United’ was announced, one media outlet it was proclaimed to be ‘like the Beatles reuniting’. The glaring difference is that when Paul, George and Ringo (with Yoko) got back together in the early 1990’s, they completed a historic retrospective; Anthology! Out of that project came three CD’s, a 400 page book, three TV specials and a 5 DVD retrospective… plus two brand new songs!
‘Image United’ is nothing like the Beatles reuniting!
Do you have a comment or six about ‘Image United’? Click here and vent!
The picture at the top left is the cover to the lost ‘Image United’ # 3 by Dale Keown.
In 2009, Image released with great fanfare, ‘Image United’ # 1. This six issue series would not only unite characters like Savage Dragon, Spawn and Team Youngblood, but it would also reunite creators and Image founders Whilce Portacio, Jim Valentino, Marc Silvestri, Rob Liefeld, Erik Larsen and Todd McFarlane. Only co - founder Jim Lee wouldn’t be directly involved, but he provided a cover or two. Joining this endeavor was writer Robert Kirkman who would chronicle the tale of a guy named Fortress who was plagued with visions of the Image Universes demise. The cool thing about this was that all the characters would be drawn by their creator. This was something that got fans kinda excited!
Two issues came out (with a out of place zero issue) and most were in agreement that the art was pretty good, but the story was a little shaky. Sales on the book weren’t bad; # 1 sold about 42,000 copies with number two selling almost 30,000 copies. With only two issues in, fans decided to wait until the series concluded before passing judgment.
But here is the problem… no more books!
Image United # 3 is now seven months late! By the time the issue hits (if it ever does. It was rescheduled for a May release) do you think fans will even care? Rob Liefeld twittered the following statement, "It goes without saying that Image United is a massive embarrassment. Damn shame the enthusiasm for the book not shared by all.”
So now the blame game begins! This could be even better than the entire series. Who is responsible for this debacle? All the creators involved are known for delays in their own projects so it’s hard to blame any one person. Apparently Rob Liefeld doesn’t blame himself at all, so where do we go from here? And more important, do any fans care?
When ‘Image United’ was announced, one media outlet it was proclaimed to be ‘like the Beatles reuniting’. The glaring difference is that when Paul, George and Ringo (with Yoko) got back together in the early 1990’s, they completed a historic retrospective; Anthology! Out of that project came three CD’s, a 400 page book, three TV specials and a 5 DVD retrospective… plus two brand new songs!
‘Image United’ is nothing like the Beatles reuniting!
Do you have a comment or six about ‘Image United’? Click here and vent!
The picture at the top left is the cover to the lost ‘Image United’ # 3 by Dale Keown.
7-14-10: New Machete Trailer Is Amazing--Movie Arrives 9/3/10
7-13-10: Bermuda Gives Me The Creeps!
Hey kiddos! Well I got back into the States a few days a go, took a day to relax (and fix our dryer) and now I’m ready to get back to work for the people!!!
Our vacation was an incredible experience! After a rough day and a half at sea (and an even bumpier one home), we got into Bermuda. Pulling into the country was my favorite part of the trip; tropical, pastel color houses, white sand and ice blue water! In Bermuda we hung out at Horseshoe Bay where we splashed in the clear warm ocean and jumped off cliffs until the Portuguese ‘Man Of War’ attack. A little girl got stung pretty bad not far from us. We spent a few days in Hamilton which included several trips to The Comic Store; the only comic shop in Bermuda! Store owner Garan Medeiros and his wife Dawn were incredibly kind and very cool. They have a great store that has a great clientele who were just as kind to me. Welcome aboard!
If Garan’s name rings a bell, he is also the writer of the comic ‘Contract’ and will be a guest in a future show. You'll love the voice...
On the boat, we got to watch the Second City Comedy Troupe. If you’re like me and remember fondly to the days of SCTV, know this current bunch of comedians live up to the incredible legacy. Two shows, both hysterical!
Musically we were entertained by the band Next Stage! Four young guys from the Philippines who did an excellent Beatles tribute show as well as other concerts and shows. The Beatles tribute was amazing in the fact these guys were in their early 20’s and grew up far away from the mania and impact the Beatles had. Great music knows no age or language boundaries.
For culture I attended a few art auctions put on by Park West, one of the most reputable art dealers in the world. Up for auction were originals from Peter Max, Romero Britto and a host of others. Auctioneer and Art Director Erica Gilbert did a fantastic job explaining the stories behind the work and told the stories behind the canvas. I was so impressed by Erica I did an interview with her as well. After all, aren’t comic books just 22 pages of paintings?
Since I needed some TV, I was able to watch Sherlock Holmes (very good), Invictus (bloody brilliant) and watched Stephen Strasburg pitch a gem against the San Francisco Giants. Thankfully it wan an off night for the World Cup or I may not have got to watch it on the big screen!
All the food I could eat and all the Mountain Dew I could drink… what else could I have needed? I thank Brian for updating the website all week (I return the favor in a few weeks) and thanks to you all for being so understanding during our vacation weeks and screwy show schedules.
A huge thanks goes to my parents for taking us and providing great memories for us and the kids. This was a highlight of our lives. And a thanks to Norwegian Cruise Line for making sure our every need was taken care of; from omelet bar and ice cream flowing!
Oh, and you may ask where the title for this article comes from? During one of the Second City shows, they asked a bunch of kids to yell out titles of songs that were not yet written. A little boy yelled out ‘Bermuda Gives Me The Creeps’! I wanted to ask him why, but i was afraid the next title he yelled out was "Old Man On A Boat Gives Me The Creeps!"
Our vacation was an incredible experience! After a rough day and a half at sea (and an even bumpier one home), we got into Bermuda. Pulling into the country was my favorite part of the trip; tropical, pastel color houses, white sand and ice blue water! In Bermuda we hung out at Horseshoe Bay where we splashed in the clear warm ocean and jumped off cliffs until the Portuguese ‘Man Of War’ attack. A little girl got stung pretty bad not far from us. We spent a few days in Hamilton which included several trips to The Comic Store; the only comic shop in Bermuda! Store owner Garan Medeiros and his wife Dawn were incredibly kind and very cool. They have a great store that has a great clientele who were just as kind to me. Welcome aboard!
If Garan’s name rings a bell, he is also the writer of the comic ‘Contract’ and will be a guest in a future show. You'll love the voice...
On the boat, we got to watch the Second City Comedy Troupe. If you’re like me and remember fondly to the days of SCTV, know this current bunch of comedians live up to the incredible legacy. Two shows, both hysterical!
Musically we were entertained by the band Next Stage! Four young guys from the Philippines who did an excellent Beatles tribute show as well as other concerts and shows. The Beatles tribute was amazing in the fact these guys were in their early 20’s and grew up far away from the mania and impact the Beatles had. Great music knows no age or language boundaries.
For culture I attended a few art auctions put on by Park West, one of the most reputable art dealers in the world. Up for auction were originals from Peter Max, Romero Britto and a host of others. Auctioneer and Art Director Erica Gilbert did a fantastic job explaining the stories behind the work and told the stories behind the canvas. I was so impressed by Erica I did an interview with her as well. After all, aren’t comic books just 22 pages of paintings?
Since I needed some TV, I was able to watch Sherlock Holmes (very good), Invictus (bloody brilliant) and watched Stephen Strasburg pitch a gem against the San Francisco Giants. Thankfully it wan an off night for the World Cup or I may not have got to watch it on the big screen!
All the food I could eat and all the Mountain Dew I could drink… what else could I have needed? I thank Brian for updating the website all week (I return the favor in a few weeks) and thanks to you all for being so understanding during our vacation weeks and screwy show schedules.
A huge thanks goes to my parents for taking us and providing great memories for us and the kids. This was a highlight of our lives. And a thanks to Norwegian Cruise Line for making sure our every need was taken care of; from omelet bar and ice cream flowing!
Oh, and you may ask where the title for this article comes from? During one of the Second City shows, they asked a bunch of kids to yell out titles of songs that were not yet written. A little boy yelled out ‘Bermuda Gives Me The Creeps’! I wanted to ask him why, but i was afraid the next title he yelled out was "Old Man On A Boat Gives Me The Creeps!"
7-12-10: Predators Review
Brian caught the Robert Rodriguez-produced "Predators" this weekend, and while it doesn't come close to the original, it's certainly one of the better entries in the franchise. Read his review here.
7-11-10: Only 20 Days Left To Complete Phase 2 Of The NEStacular Summer Challenge!
By now, all of you who are participating in the NEStacular Summer Challenge should be fighting space pirates, as we are almost halfway into July, and "Metroid" is our game of the month. "Metroid" is an amazing game that combines platforming and exploration as you take on the role of Samus Aran, a bounty hunter who has been sent into Planet Zebes and the fortress of the Space Pirates, and evil group that is planning to use life-draining organisms called Metroids as a biological weapon.
"Metroid" is a very challenging game, not just because of the platforming skills it requires, but because of the open world nature of the game, and the tendency of placers to get lost within it. It's certainly worthy to be part of the NEStacular Summer challenge.
So, even if you didn't jump on board with "Super Mario Bros.," spend some time with "Metroid" this month and you'll see why it's considered a classic. And don't forget to hit the boards and tell us about your experience!
"Metroid" is a very challenging game, not just because of the platforming skills it requires, but because of the open world nature of the game, and the tendency of placers to get lost within it. It's certainly worthy to be part of the NEStacular Summer challenge.
So, even if you didn't jump on board with "Super Mario Bros.," spend some time with "Metroid" this month and you'll see why it's considered a classic. And don't forget to hit the boards and tell us about your experience!
7-10-10: Silber Minicomics Reviews--July 2010
Our friend Brian John Mitchell over at Silber Media recently sent us a new batch of their mini comics. This latest crop has a few new titles, and you can read what Brian thought of them in his review.
7-9-10: Review--Let The Right One In
In the ‘better late than never’ category, Brian has a review of an excellent 2008 film called “Let the Right One In.” Click here to see why it’s a standout in the vampire genre.
7-8-10: Preview--Mickey Mouse And The World To Come!
A few weeks ago we spoje to BOOM Kids! Editor Aaron Sparow about how the company has been knocking it out of the park when it comes to kids' comics. Their Disney line in particular has been nothing short of amazing, bringing back classic Disney heroes and villains, including fan favorites like Darkwing Duck.
Hitting stands this week is the trade of "Mickey Mouse and the World to Come." It's a time-travelling tale featuring Mickey Mouse and Eega Beeva. The heores face off against the evil Rhyming Man, who is holding the world hostage. It's an epic adventure, and we've got a preview of it right here on Secret Identity!
The book is 112 pages long for a mere $9.99. Click here to go to our Comics page and read the preview, then go pick it up for the kids!
Hitting stands this week is the trade of "Mickey Mouse and the World to Come." It's a time-travelling tale featuring Mickey Mouse and Eega Beeva. The heores face off against the evil Rhyming Man, who is holding the world hostage. It's an epic adventure, and we've got a preview of it right here on Secret Identity!
The book is 112 pages long for a mere $9.99. Click here to go to our Comics page and read the preview, then go pick it up for the kids!
7-7-10: Devil's Due Publishing Leaves Diamond
Press Relesase
Devil's Due Publishing has pulled its distribution of comics and graphic novels from Diamond Comic and Diamond Book Distributors, effective today. The Publisher will soon be announcing its new book store distribution partners, and will offer product direct to comic book retail outlets, as well as distribution through Haven Comic Distributors (www.havendistro.com).
"For almost over a year Devil's Due has been in an unwinnable situation wherein Diamond garnishes our revenues to pay back returns and fees it claims are owed from 2008 and 2009, making it impossible for us to keep up with payments to talent, printers, and other expenses while maintaining a stable business," said Josh Blaylock, president of Devil's Due, who was forced to wind down the company's publishing rather than ramp up as it originally planned to do when hit with a rough econom in 2008. "We've exhausted every resource to get on track, with a primary focus on catching up with talent payments first and formost, but when Diamond controls the money flow, that becomes impossible."
The decision did not come lightly, adds Blaylock, "Of course this is the last thing a company wants to do in the Diamond dominated comic book industry, but it is necessary if we are going to be able to ever again be able to turn the money faucet back on. I am hopeful that we will be able to work something out with Diamond in the future. Until we verify a number of questions regarding sales from late 2008 through the present, DDP will be utilizing other avenues of distribution to move back stock, as well as limited releases of select new material.
Devil's Due also welcomes fans to purchase digital downloads on Graphic.ly, iVerse through the iTunes App store, and comiXology, the latter of which currently has over 100 comics available, including the never-released-in-print "Hack/Slash - Mercy Sparx: A Slice of Hell" crossover special, as the sales from these companies are going in large part towards paying off moneys owed to licensors and talent.
For the latest on Devil's Due, head over to www.devilsdue.net.
Devil's Due Publishing has pulled its distribution of comics and graphic novels from Diamond Comic and Diamond Book Distributors, effective today. The Publisher will soon be announcing its new book store distribution partners, and will offer product direct to comic book retail outlets, as well as distribution through Haven Comic Distributors (www.havendistro.com).
"For almost over a year Devil's Due has been in an unwinnable situation wherein Diamond garnishes our revenues to pay back returns and fees it claims are owed from 2008 and 2009, making it impossible for us to keep up with payments to talent, printers, and other expenses while maintaining a stable business," said Josh Blaylock, president of Devil's Due, who was forced to wind down the company's publishing rather than ramp up as it originally planned to do when hit with a rough econom in 2008. "We've exhausted every resource to get on track, with a primary focus on catching up with talent payments first and formost, but when Diamond controls the money flow, that becomes impossible."
The decision did not come lightly, adds Blaylock, "Of course this is the last thing a company wants to do in the Diamond dominated comic book industry, but it is necessary if we are going to be able to ever again be able to turn the money faucet back on. I am hopeful that we will be able to work something out with Diamond in the future. Until we verify a number of questions regarding sales from late 2008 through the present, DDP will be utilizing other avenues of distribution to move back stock, as well as limited releases of select new material.
Devil's Due also welcomes fans to purchase digital downloads on Graphic.ly, iVerse through the iTunes App store, and comiXology, the latter of which currently has over 100 comics available, including the never-released-in-print "Hack/Slash - Mercy Sparx: A Slice of Hell" crossover special, as the sales from these companies are going in large part towards paying off moneys owed to licensors and talent.
For the latest on Devil's Due, head over to www.devilsdue.net.
7-6-10: Kill Shakespeare #3 Hits Stores This Week!
This week the creative team of Anthony Del Col, Colin McCreery and Andy Belanger bring readers the third installment of IDW’s latest hit deries “Kill Shakespeare.” The series pits Shakespeare’s greatest heroes against his most menacing villains in a dark saga that is “Fables” meets “League of Extraordinary Gentlemen” with a dash of “Northlanders.”
The epic started with Hamlet undertaking a quest to resurrect his dead father. His mission? He needs to kill a reclusive wizard named William Shakespeare.
In the third issue, Hamlet’s quest to track down the wizard Shakespeare takes an interesting turn with the entrance of the witty—yet mysterious—fool Falstaff. Together they flee from the relentless assassins unleashed by Iago while Richard attempts to wrestle control from his rival Macbeth with the support of the alluring Lady Macbeth. As Falstaff himself would declare, this issue features fights, frivolities, femme fatales, faeries, and fakeries, all forming one fantastic fable.
Whether you’re a Shakespeare fan or just love a good epic adventure, you should give “Kill Shakespeare” a shot. Check out the official site www.killshakespeare.com and stay tuned for an interview with the creative team.
The epic started with Hamlet undertaking a quest to resurrect his dead father. His mission? He needs to kill a reclusive wizard named William Shakespeare.
In the third issue, Hamlet’s quest to track down the wizard Shakespeare takes an interesting turn with the entrance of the witty—yet mysterious—fool Falstaff. Together they flee from the relentless assassins unleashed by Iago while Richard attempts to wrestle control from his rival Macbeth with the support of the alluring Lady Macbeth. As Falstaff himself would declare, this issue features fights, frivolities, femme fatales, faeries, and fakeries, all forming one fantastic fable.
Whether you’re a Shakespeare fan or just love a good epic adventure, you should give “Kill Shakespeare” a shot. Check out the official site www.killshakespeare.com and stay tuned for an interview with the creative team.
7-5-10: Crackdown 2 Review
Brian returned to the streets of Pacific City to make them safe for citizens once again. Click here to read his review of “Crackdown 2.”
7-4-10: Check Out Our Preview Of Archaia's Hybrid Bastards!
Our good friends at Archaia sent us over a ten-page preview of their latest collected hardcover called "Hybrid Bastards!" Written by Tom Pinchuk with art by Kate Glasheen, "Hybrid Bastards" takes an interesting angle on the Greek god Zues and his womanizing ways. Here's the solicit:
Zeus is a god with a reputation for lechery, and it’s been driving his wife Hera nuts for years. Reaching her limit one night, she puts together an epic practical joke: She places a spell on Zeus that makes him fall in lust with every inanimate object in sight! It was a night Zeus doesn’t remember, but his godly seed took root nevertheless. Now, 18 years later, his unnatural hybrid bastards wander the world. And because Zeus has a reputation to protect, these embarrassing freaks have got to go! But this motley crew refuses to go quietly. Through schemes both ingenious and idiotic, Zeus’ bastard children—Cotton, a smarmy cloth patchwork; Carmine, a timid automobile; Corey, a self-loathing apple; Walter, a belligerent stack of bricks; and Panos, their gallant would-be leader—will force their negligent father to acknowledge them…that is, if their own squabbling doesn’t defeat them first! Collecting the mini-series that takes Greek mythology in a decidedly different direction, the "Hybrid Bastards"hardcover includes a bonus story and pin-up gallery.
Hybrid Basterds is in comic shops now and will be hitting major bookstores on July 12, 2010. Click here to go to our Comics Page and check out the preview then head to www.archaiacomics.com for more info.
Zeus is a god with a reputation for lechery, and it’s been driving his wife Hera nuts for years. Reaching her limit one night, she puts together an epic practical joke: She places a spell on Zeus that makes him fall in lust with every inanimate object in sight! It was a night Zeus doesn’t remember, but his godly seed took root nevertheless. Now, 18 years later, his unnatural hybrid bastards wander the world. And because Zeus has a reputation to protect, these embarrassing freaks have got to go! But this motley crew refuses to go quietly. Through schemes both ingenious and idiotic, Zeus’ bastard children—Cotton, a smarmy cloth patchwork; Carmine, a timid automobile; Corey, a self-loathing apple; Walter, a belligerent stack of bricks; and Panos, their gallant would-be leader—will force their negligent father to acknowledge them…that is, if their own squabbling doesn’t defeat them first! Collecting the mini-series that takes Greek mythology in a decidedly different direction, the "Hybrid Bastards"hardcover includes a bonus story and pin-up gallery.
Hybrid Basterds is in comic shops now and will be hitting major bookstores on July 12, 2010. Click here to go to our Comics Page and check out the preview then head to www.archaiacomics.com for more info.
7-3-10: "OK Axis, Here We Come... Back!"
The Invaders were ‘The Greatest Superheroes Of World War II’! This was true, not because it said it on the cover, but because of who was involved with the team. Captain America and Bucky, Sub-Mariner, Human Torch and Toro took it to the Axis month after month for about four glorious years in some of the best comics ever created. Over the years there have been many attempts to resurrect the Invaders, but have all failed.
UNTIL NOW!!!
This September, the Invaders reunite in a 5 issue limited series. The best part is the team will be made up of the five original members! In the first time since forever, the original five are back and alive and well in the Marvel Universe. But what is it that has gathered the team and what is its relation to a dark time in the teams history? “This is a big deal for me!” said Matman about the reforming of the old team. “This is like the Beatles reuniting sort of. I mean John Lennon would have to be found alive in Russian captivity and George Harrison would need to return thanks to the Cosmic Cube. But I think you get my point! This is the return of one of my favorite comics growing up.”
Written by Alex Ross and Christos Gage, the series will feature the eye catching art of Caio Reiss and be a joint publication between Marvel and Dynamite Entertainment.
UNTIL NOW!!!
This September, the Invaders reunite in a 5 issue limited series. The best part is the team will be made up of the five original members! In the first time since forever, the original five are back and alive and well in the Marvel Universe. But what is it that has gathered the team and what is its relation to a dark time in the teams history? “This is a big deal for me!” said Matman about the reforming of the old team. “This is like the Beatles reuniting sort of. I mean John Lennon would have to be found alive in Russian captivity and George Harrison would need to return thanks to the Cosmic Cube. But I think you get my point! This is the return of one of my favorite comics growing up.”
Written by Alex Ross and Christos Gage, the series will feature the eye catching art of Caio Reiss and be a joint publication between Marvel and Dynamite Entertainment.
7-2-10: Matman Talks Wonder Woman # 600
Happy Anniversary to one of our favorite gals, Wonder Woman!
And what better way to usher in the new era of Princess Diana than lots of friends (writers and artists) and an event that even has non comic book fans taking notice.
DC comics announced this past Wednesday morning that Wonder Woman was changing her iconic ‘bathing suit’ look for a more current, less ‘fleshy’ costume. Once media outlets like Yahoo News broke the story, non comic book fans were scrambling to comic book stores and making Wonder Woman # 600 a very sought after book. Designed by Jim Lee and J. Michael Straczynski, the costume is a complete departure from the original and already has the battle lines drawn among comic fans. As much as I love the classic original, I like the new one. It's streamlined, natural looking and sexy without being sexist or cheesecake. The only thing busting out is her fists on the heads of bad guys!
But being lost in the hype is the fact that Wonder Woman # 600 is an incredible book that is the template others should follow when making an anniversary comic.
Not only do we get the new era ushered in, but we get past creators returning to tell one more story or supply a pin up. Gail Simone teams up with George Perez on a story that in five pages sums up everything Wonder Woman is (complete with tears). Amanda Connor injects some humor, naivety and Power Girl in a story about cats and tentacles. Inserted between the stories are some beautiful pinups showing Wonder Woman by different artists like Adam Hughes, Greg Horn and Ivan Reis. All are amazing, but the one that really caught my eye was by Shane Davis (inked by Jamie Mendoza). If they are to ever make a Wonder Woman film, use this picture to find the actress. Throw in a beautiful centerfold by Phil Jimenez, an introduction by Linda Carter and you have everything you could want to celebrate the legacy of the Amazon Princess.
In an ingenious way, Geoff Johns and Scott Kolins create a bridge story that moves right into the featured event! Written by Straczynski, penciled by Don Kramer and inked by Michael Babinski, we see in the last nine pages, not only the new costume, but the new direction the series is going. I’ve always loved Don Kramer’s art and is not only the perfect choice for this book, but he is capable of helping return Wonder Woman to her rightful place in DC’s big three!
If you can find the book, snag it! It’s well worth the $4.99 price tag.
And what better way to usher in the new era of Princess Diana than lots of friends (writers and artists) and an event that even has non comic book fans taking notice.
DC comics announced this past Wednesday morning that Wonder Woman was changing her iconic ‘bathing suit’ look for a more current, less ‘fleshy’ costume. Once media outlets like Yahoo News broke the story, non comic book fans were scrambling to comic book stores and making Wonder Woman # 600 a very sought after book. Designed by Jim Lee and J. Michael Straczynski, the costume is a complete departure from the original and already has the battle lines drawn among comic fans. As much as I love the classic original, I like the new one. It's streamlined, natural looking and sexy without being sexist or cheesecake. The only thing busting out is her fists on the heads of bad guys!
But being lost in the hype is the fact that Wonder Woman # 600 is an incredible book that is the template others should follow when making an anniversary comic.
Not only do we get the new era ushered in, but we get past creators returning to tell one more story or supply a pin up. Gail Simone teams up with George Perez on a story that in five pages sums up everything Wonder Woman is (complete with tears). Amanda Connor injects some humor, naivety and Power Girl in a story about cats and tentacles. Inserted between the stories are some beautiful pinups showing Wonder Woman by different artists like Adam Hughes, Greg Horn and Ivan Reis. All are amazing, but the one that really caught my eye was by Shane Davis (inked by Jamie Mendoza). If they are to ever make a Wonder Woman film, use this picture to find the actress. Throw in a beautiful centerfold by Phil Jimenez, an introduction by Linda Carter and you have everything you could want to celebrate the legacy of the Amazon Princess.
In an ingenious way, Geoff Johns and Scott Kolins create a bridge story that moves right into the featured event! Written by Straczynski, penciled by Don Kramer and inked by Michael Babinski, we see in the last nine pages, not only the new costume, but the new direction the series is going. I’ve always loved Don Kramer’s art and is not only the perfect choice for this book, but he is capable of helping return Wonder Woman to her rightful place in DC’s big three!
If you can find the book, snag it! It’s well worth the $4.99 price tag.
7-1-10: Get Ready For Crackdown 2 With "The Pacific City Archives"
Crackdown 2 hits stores next week, and I could not be more excited. The original Crackdown may be my favorite game this console generation, and I am dying to get back into Pacific City and clean up the streets as a super-powered Agent again. Pacific City's changed quite a bit in the years since the first game however, and developer Ruffian games has put together a series of motion comics to give fans some insight into just what went wrong in Pacific City. Check out the video to the right, then head over to Machinima.com to see the rest of the series.
Crackdown 2 comes out July 6th for the XBox 360.
Crackdown 2 comes out July 6th for the XBox 360.
6-29-10: Archie And Friends Help Deliver U.S. Mail
This summer, Archie, Betty and Veronica join a unique group of people and events in American history.
In 2010 the United States Postal Service have (and will) issue stamps celebrating Mother Teresa, The Negro Leagues (of American Baseball), Pearl Harbor hero Doris Miller and soon will be releasing the ‘Famous Funnies’ issue.
‘Famous Funnies’ are a celebration of the great American comic strip. Garfield, Calvin and Hobbes, Dennis The Menace and Beetle Bailey will all join Archie and the gals in an honor that is as American as the medium they represent.
There are some big events planned! An official Fleetwood First Day Cover will be made available containing facts about Archie and the game and will also feature a canceled stamp from the first day issue. Having a canceled stamp (dated lines on stamp) is a big deal to stamp collectors especially if it from the issued date.
“The U.S. Postage Stamp signifies just how much Archie Comics and its fabled romantic and comedic adventures of Archie & friends continue to touch our hearts and make us all laugh out loud, not just on Sundays, but on each and every day,” said Jon Goldwater, Archie Comics Publisher told the press.
The stamp will be issued on July 16 and be available to put on your bills, postcards and love letters. To add to the celebration Archie Comics will release “Archie in Stamp of Approval” in ARCHIE DOUBLE DIGEST # 210, which will be released on July 7.
In 2010 the United States Postal Service have (and will) issue stamps celebrating Mother Teresa, The Negro Leagues (of American Baseball), Pearl Harbor hero Doris Miller and soon will be releasing the ‘Famous Funnies’ issue.
‘Famous Funnies’ are a celebration of the great American comic strip. Garfield, Calvin and Hobbes, Dennis The Menace and Beetle Bailey will all join Archie and the gals in an honor that is as American as the medium they represent.
There are some big events planned! An official Fleetwood First Day Cover will be made available containing facts about Archie and the game and will also feature a canceled stamp from the first day issue. Having a canceled stamp (dated lines on stamp) is a big deal to stamp collectors especially if it from the issued date.
“The U.S. Postage Stamp signifies just how much Archie Comics and its fabled romantic and comedic adventures of Archie & friends continue to touch our hearts and make us all laugh out loud, not just on Sundays, but on each and every day,” said Jon Goldwater, Archie Comics Publisher told the press.
The stamp will be issued on July 16 and be available to put on your bills, postcards and love letters. To add to the celebration Archie Comics will release “Archie in Stamp of Approval” in ARCHIE DOUBLE DIGEST # 210, which will be released on July 7.
6-28-10: ConnectiCon Is Almost Here!!
It's that time of year again! Summer has arrived, and one of the best cons of the year has arrived along with it!
ConnectiCon 2010 will be held the weekend of July 9-11, 2010 at the Connecticut Convention Center and Hartford Marriott Downtown. Events at the convention center will take place on Friday and Saturday between 8am and midnight, and Sunday between 8am and 6pm. Events at the Hartford Marriott Downtown will run 24-hours a day beginning at 8am on Friday morning and ending at 6pm on Sunday evening.
Over 7,000 people attended ConnectiCon in 2009, making it one of New England's largest pop culture events. Why pop culture you ask? Well, because ConnectiCon doesn't focus on just one element of fandom, the convention's organizers are fans of a lot of different things, so the con focuses on all of the awesome stuff that they like including: web comics, anime, console games, board games, table top miniatures, science fiction, fantasy, comics books, roleplaying games, live action roleplaying, collectible card games, and horror. You name it and ConnectiCon's probably got something related going on, even Madden Football, and spontaneous games of Twister while folks wait in line! ConnectiCon has "Everything but the kitchen sink!"
What can you expect to see and do at ConnectiCon? Here is a short list of what's currently planned:
ConnectiCon is also expanding the size and scope of board games, miniatures gaming, and collectible card games this year with over 60 Sanctioned Magic: The Gathering tournaments, over 40 tabletop miniatures events, and more than 75 tables for board games with an active group of game instructors and publishers.
ConnectiCon will be showcasing over 7,000 hours of programming during its 3-day event at the Connecticut Convention Center and Hartford Marriott Downtown.
Head over to www.conncecticon.org to get your tickets for this year's show!
ConnectiCon 2010 will be held the weekend of July 9-11, 2010 at the Connecticut Convention Center and Hartford Marriott Downtown. Events at the convention center will take place on Friday and Saturday between 8am and midnight, and Sunday between 8am and 6pm. Events at the Hartford Marriott Downtown will run 24-hours a day beginning at 8am on Friday morning and ending at 6pm on Sunday evening.
Over 7,000 people attended ConnectiCon in 2009, making it one of New England's largest pop culture events. Why pop culture you ask? Well, because ConnectiCon doesn't focus on just one element of fandom, the convention's organizers are fans of a lot of different things, so the con focuses on all of the awesome stuff that they like including: web comics, anime, console games, board games, table top miniatures, science fiction, fantasy, comics books, roleplaying games, live action roleplaying, collectible card games, and horror. You name it and ConnectiCon's probably got something related going on, even Madden Football, and spontaneous games of Twister while folks wait in line! ConnectiCon has "Everything but the kitchen sink!"
What can you expect to see and do at ConnectiCon? Here is a short list of what's currently planned:
- Three 24-hour screening rooms showing new releases, classic favorites and independent features from anime, sci-fi, fantasy, horror and related genres.
- Five panel rooms, three workshop rooms, a 2,500 seat main events hall. Packed with performances, guest speakers, hands on crafting, and discussion of your favorite genres.
- There will be nine 4-hour slots of roleplaying games showcasing mainstream and independent games for experienced players or beginners.
- Thanks to sponsor GameStop, Console gaming is going to explode featuring over 100 systems for free play and tournament use.
ConnectiCon is also expanding the size and scope of board games, miniatures gaming, and collectible card games this year with over 60 Sanctioned Magic: The Gathering tournaments, over 40 tabletop miniatures events, and more than 75 tables for board games with an active group of game instructors and publishers.
ConnectiCon will be showcasing over 7,000 hours of programming during its 3-day event at the Connecticut Convention Center and Hartford Marriott Downtown.
Head over to www.conncecticon.org to get your tickets for this year's show!
6-27-10: Making War Once More!!!
War is coming to DC this September!!!
Starting on September 1st, DC will reintroduce its legendary line of war comics and incredible heroes. But before you freak out or say “pass”, here is the best part. The five books will take place where they belong, World War II (at least for the most part)! As incredible as the Unknown Soldier series is and how cool the Haunted Tank mini was, it is exciting to see the DC Battle Stars where they belong, all in the books that made them famous!
Our Army At War hits with a tale featuring Sgt. Rock and Easy Company fighting Germans in the 40’s. As this is going on, we see the current Easy Company currently in Afghanistan. Cover by the man himself, Joe Kubert!
Weird War Tales – Three stories about war, dinosaurs and zombies bring back the magic of this classic title. Story, cover and art by Darwyn Cooke.
Our Fighting Forces features the Losers on a …. (surprise), suicide mission. Capt. Storm, Johnny Cloud, Gunner and Sarge are back in a mission they may (surprise) not return from.
G.I. Combat – For so long this book was the home of the Hunted Tank and on September 22nd, it is again.
Star Spangled War Stories – Once the home of the Unknown Solder it was also where Mademoiselle Marie first blew up tanks and killed German occupiers. Picture a low tech Black Widow and you have the ‘French Battle Doll’.
So get your helmet and gun and get ready for these five one shots in September. All books are 32 pages and will cost you $3.99 each.
Starting on September 1st, DC will reintroduce its legendary line of war comics and incredible heroes. But before you freak out or say “pass”, here is the best part. The five books will take place where they belong, World War II (at least for the most part)! As incredible as the Unknown Soldier series is and how cool the Haunted Tank mini was, it is exciting to see the DC Battle Stars where they belong, all in the books that made them famous!
Our Army At War hits with a tale featuring Sgt. Rock and Easy Company fighting Germans in the 40’s. As this is going on, we see the current Easy Company currently in Afghanistan. Cover by the man himself, Joe Kubert!
Weird War Tales – Three stories about war, dinosaurs and zombies bring back the magic of this classic title. Story, cover and art by Darwyn Cooke.
Our Fighting Forces features the Losers on a …. (surprise), suicide mission. Capt. Storm, Johnny Cloud, Gunner and Sarge are back in a mission they may (surprise) not return from.
G.I. Combat – For so long this book was the home of the Hunted Tank and on September 22nd, it is again.
Star Spangled War Stories – Once the home of the Unknown Solder it was also where Mademoiselle Marie first blew up tanks and killed German occupiers. Picture a low tech Black Widow and you have the ‘French Battle Doll’.
So get your helmet and gun and get ready for these five one shots in September. All books are 32 pages and will cost you $3.99 each.
6-26-10: Help Support Steampunk Musha!
Our friend Rick Hershey from Empty Room Studios is launching a very cool project through Kickstarter.com. "Steampunk Musha" is a unique RPG created by Rick that melds two very cool genres together. Here's how he describes it:
“Imagine an island, cut off from the rest of the world by a series of treacherous coral reefs. Imagine that the island was plagued by a war that lasted hundreds of years, only to be divided into provinces ruled by warlord. Imagine that as technology has improved and increased in the outside world, the island has remained much the same as it has always been. Now imagine that outsiders have brought the outside world to that island, and that things have changed forever . .
. . . Unlike traditional fantasy settings, "Steampunk Musha" draws on East Asian mythology and history and combines aspects of several cultural traditions with Victorian-era technology. The traditional Oriental setting is thrown into a roaring industrial age, where incredible new inventions contrast with ancient mysteries and restless spirits. High fantasy and science-fiction clash and combine in the middle of the conflict between old and new, father and son, mechanical and spiritual.”
From now through July 31st, Rick is raising money for "Steampunk Musha" through Kickstarter.com. He's trying to raise $5000 in order to launch both the RPG and a series of graphic novels set in the world of "Steampunk Musha." Those who donate can get everything from physical copies of the products to actually having themselves characterized in the "Steampunk Musha" setting itself.
For more info on the "Steampunk Musha" project, head over to www.steampunkmusha.com, and if you like what you see, help donate to the cause!
“Imagine an island, cut off from the rest of the world by a series of treacherous coral reefs. Imagine that the island was plagued by a war that lasted hundreds of years, only to be divided into provinces ruled by warlord. Imagine that as technology has improved and increased in the outside world, the island has remained much the same as it has always been. Now imagine that outsiders have brought the outside world to that island, and that things have changed forever . .
. . . Unlike traditional fantasy settings, "Steampunk Musha" draws on East Asian mythology and history and combines aspects of several cultural traditions with Victorian-era technology. The traditional Oriental setting is thrown into a roaring industrial age, where incredible new inventions contrast with ancient mysteries and restless spirits. High fantasy and science-fiction clash and combine in the middle of the conflict between old and new, father and son, mechanical and spiritual.”
From now through July 31st, Rick is raising money for "Steampunk Musha" through Kickstarter.com. He's trying to raise $5000 in order to launch both the RPG and a series of graphic novels set in the world of "Steampunk Musha." Those who donate can get everything from physical copies of the products to actually having themselves characterized in the "Steampunk Musha" setting itself.
For more info on the "Steampunk Musha" project, head over to www.steampunkmusha.com, and if you like what you see, help donate to the cause!
6-25-10: G - Man Gets Traded Twice In September
The three most frequently asked questions (or FAQ) Brian and Matman get are…
1. Are you two a couple?
2. Who is the worst creator you ever met?
3. What is a great comic for kids?
Now the first two are answered with a ‘no comment’, but the third is an easy one. And in September the answer hits comic stores and on line comic retailers.
Chris Giarrusso’s incredible G–Man will be available to the masses in not one, but two trade collections. This is your chance to get every G-Man strip without hunting down the back issue bins for old Savage Dragon comics (although if you see them, get them anyway. They’re great reading).
Volume One – Learning To Fly is the first appearances of G-Man; from the above mentioned Savage Dragon, G-Man one shot and awesome Christmas story. All 96 fill color pages can and will be yours for only $9.99.
Volume Two – CapeCrisis collects the five issue mini series that tells the story of greed, magic and sibling rivalry. And for $9.99, this 120 page book is yours. Now be warned! Even though CapeCrisis is an all ages comic, you will see a pair of ‘boobs’ in there.
And while you wait for these goodies, head over to www.chrisgcomics.com for animation, character profiles and so many cool sketches you may never leave!
Both books carry the ‘Image Spotlight’ tag and can be found on page 180 of this months Previews Guide.
1. Are you two a couple?
2. Who is the worst creator you ever met?
3. What is a great comic for kids?
Now the first two are answered with a ‘no comment’, but the third is an easy one. And in September the answer hits comic stores and on line comic retailers.
Chris Giarrusso’s incredible G–Man will be available to the masses in not one, but two trade collections. This is your chance to get every G-Man strip without hunting down the back issue bins for old Savage Dragon comics (although if you see them, get them anyway. They’re great reading).
Volume One – Learning To Fly is the first appearances of G-Man; from the above mentioned Savage Dragon, G-Man one shot and awesome Christmas story. All 96 fill color pages can and will be yours for only $9.99.
Volume Two – CapeCrisis collects the five issue mini series that tells the story of greed, magic and sibling rivalry. And for $9.99, this 120 page book is yours. Now be warned! Even though CapeCrisis is an all ages comic, you will see a pair of ‘boobs’ in there.
And while you wait for these goodies, head over to www.chrisgcomics.com for animation, character profiles and so many cool sketches you may never leave!
Both books carry the ‘Image Spotlight’ tag and can be found on page 180 of this months Previews Guide.
6-24-10: Power Girl #13 Review
This week Brian picked up "Power Girl" #13 to see how Judd Winick and Sami Basri's run on the book picks up from the Palmiotti/Gray/Conner era. Click here to see what he thought of the issue.
6-23-10: Unpublished 1950's Comic Released At Archie
Press Release
Archie Comics—publisher of the world’s most beloved teenager from 1941 to today, Archie Andrews—is on the verge of a new renaissance! In the upcoming issues of ARCHIE (#610-613), Andy Andrews, the never-before-published star of his own 1950s comic, will make his print debut. To celebrate Andy’s first print appearance, the entire unpublished comic “Iron Curtain Caper” is being released digitally on www.ArchieComics.com!
Archie Comics alum and writer Tom DeFalco and Editor-in-Chief Victor Gorelick knew of the unpublished Golden Age, Pre-1957 Archie pages featuring a character named Andy Andrews, and in a discussion about him Tom became so inspired that he spent all night creating a new story about Andy! The next day, Tom passionately pitched the concept to Gorelick, who immediately approved the story. It is a tale of bravery, mystery, excitement, laughter and spies.
It is the adventure of “The Man from R.I.V.E.R.D.A.L.E.”!
“Bringing back ‘The Man from R.I.V.E.R.D.A.L.E.’ is a great vehicle for introducing Andy Andrews into the world of Archie,” said Archie Comics Editor-in-Chief, Victor Gorelick. “It fits the action/adventure theme of Andy’s unpublished comic right into Archie and the gang’s antics!”
In honor of the discovery of those rare pages, through the day of the release of Andy’s first print appearance on June 23rd, the original 1950s story “Iron Curtain Caper” will be presented FREE for fans to read for the very first time on the Archie Comics website, www.ArchieComics.com.
Read Andy Andrews’ further adventures in “The Man from R.I.V.E.R.D.A.L.E.”, appearing on the pages of ARCHIE #610 to #613 starting June 23rd.
Archie Comics—publisher of the world’s most beloved teenager from 1941 to today, Archie Andrews—is on the verge of a new renaissance! In the upcoming issues of ARCHIE (#610-613), Andy Andrews, the never-before-published star of his own 1950s comic, will make his print debut. To celebrate Andy’s first print appearance, the entire unpublished comic “Iron Curtain Caper” is being released digitally on www.ArchieComics.com!
Archie Comics alum and writer Tom DeFalco and Editor-in-Chief Victor Gorelick knew of the unpublished Golden Age, Pre-1957 Archie pages featuring a character named Andy Andrews, and in a discussion about him Tom became so inspired that he spent all night creating a new story about Andy! The next day, Tom passionately pitched the concept to Gorelick, who immediately approved the story. It is a tale of bravery, mystery, excitement, laughter and spies.
It is the adventure of “The Man from R.I.V.E.R.D.A.L.E.”!
“Bringing back ‘The Man from R.I.V.E.R.D.A.L.E.’ is a great vehicle for introducing Andy Andrews into the world of Archie,” said Archie Comics Editor-in-Chief, Victor Gorelick. “It fits the action/adventure theme of Andy’s unpublished comic right into Archie and the gang’s antics!”
In honor of the discovery of those rare pages, through the day of the release of Andy’s first print appearance on June 23rd, the original 1950s story “Iron Curtain Caper” will be presented FREE for fans to read for the very first time on the Archie Comics website, www.ArchieComics.com.
Read Andy Andrews’ further adventures in “The Man from R.I.V.E.R.D.A.L.E.”, appearing on the pages of ARCHIE #610 to #613 starting June 23rd.
6-22-10: Brian Interview Super Hero Squad Onlien Developer On CBR
Last week I had a chance to interview Jason Robar, VP of developer The Amazing Society, about the upcoming Marvel MMO "Super Hero Squad Online." While the game was just recently announced, I was able to get a few tidbits of information about what to expect when it arrives in 2011.
One of the interesting things Jason mentioned was that for "SHSO," they can go beyond the Super Hero Squad franchise and pull stories from the larger Marvel U:
"We will have the freedom to utilize storylines from the TV show, but we have a staff of designers who have been madly creating the game's own unique storylines and events. The beauty of our particular license for "Super Hero Squad" is that Marvel has told us we can draw from the entire Marvel Universe and it's 70 years of history, not just the TV show."
To read my full interview with Jason over on CBR, click here.
One of the interesting things Jason mentioned was that for "SHSO," they can go beyond the Super Hero Squad franchise and pull stories from the larger Marvel U:
"We will have the freedom to utilize storylines from the TV show, but we have a staff of designers who have been madly creating the game's own unique storylines and events. The beauty of our particular license for "Super Hero Squad" is that Marvel has told us we can draw from the entire Marvel Universe and it's 70 years of history, not just the TV show."
To read my full interview with Jason over on CBR, click here.
6-21-10: Dark Horse Announces The End Of A Legacy
About four years ago, Star Wars: Legacy continued the adventures of the Star Wars universe some 100 years after the events in Return Of The Jedi. Well, it appears that chapter of Star Wars is coming to an end.
Writer John Ostrander and main artist Jan Duursema were put in charge of creating a universe that would be different enough but familiar to Star Wars fans. And they succeeded! Month after month, the future was filled with Sith, Jedi, and a descendant of Luke Skywalker who was not only doing everything to avoid his destiny. Add to that, Cade Skywalker was a drug addict! Fun stuff!
Sadly Star Wars: Legacy # 50 will be the last issue. Following the death of the Mon Calamari’s planet of Dac and the Sith and Jedi battling for control of the Empire, there are so many questions that need to be answered. Will they be able to finish what they started? According to outside sources, the arc will be completed with a possibility for a mini series or two to continue the adventures.
“This is a sad bit of news,” adds Matman. “I have been on since the zero issue and love what Jan and John have created. Since the beginning I have looked at the Legacy series as episodes 7, 8 and 9. If George Lucas isn’t going to make them, at least Dark Horse gave me a chance to read them.”
If you haven’t read any Star Wars Legacy books, you should search out some of the trades like Broken and Alliance! Every story contains political intrigue, great characters and beautiful artwork.
Writer John Ostrander and main artist Jan Duursema were put in charge of creating a universe that would be different enough but familiar to Star Wars fans. And they succeeded! Month after month, the future was filled with Sith, Jedi, and a descendant of Luke Skywalker who was not only doing everything to avoid his destiny. Add to that, Cade Skywalker was a drug addict! Fun stuff!
Sadly Star Wars: Legacy # 50 will be the last issue. Following the death of the Mon Calamari’s planet of Dac and the Sith and Jedi battling for control of the Empire, there are so many questions that need to be answered. Will they be able to finish what they started? According to outside sources, the arc will be completed with a possibility for a mini series or two to continue the adventures.
“This is a sad bit of news,” adds Matman. “I have been on since the zero issue and love what Jan and John have created. Since the beginning I have looked at the Legacy series as episodes 7, 8 and 9. If George Lucas isn’t going to make them, at least Dark Horse gave me a chance to read them.”
If you haven’t read any Star Wars Legacy books, you should search out some of the trades like Broken and Alliance! Every story contains political intrigue, great characters and beautiful artwork.
6-20-10: The SI Sunday Conversation--BOOM Kids! Editor Aaron Sparrow
We're big fans of BOOM! Studios here at Secret Identity, and when BOOM! launched its own kids line a little over a year ago, we were stoked. This week we got a chance to catch up with BOOM Kids! Editor Aaron Sparrow to talk about what the first year of the line has been like for the company. Click here to read the interview.
6-19-10: Jonah Hex ... The Review!
Matman and Brian did it again! That's right, we're talking 'date night’! Following a delicious meal at Ruby Tuesday’s featuring soup, salad and soda, they met up with their friend, artist Aaron Wood and sat down to watch the latest comic character to hit the big screen! That would be Jonah Hex!
So what did they think? Did Matman cry in disappointment and need to be held by Brian? Or did the duo enjoy what they saw?
To read Matman’s review, click here
Funny that Elmsford and Blackie didn’t make an appearance in the film. Maybe as an extra on the DVD.
6-18-10: Alan Wake Review (XBox 360)
This past week Brian confronted his fear of the dark and braved his way through "Alan Wake." Was the long-awaited game frighteningly good or bad? Click here to read the review and find out.
6-17-10: ComicConn Joins The Wizard Family
Big news for a ‘little con’ from an even smaller state!
Last month Brian and Matman (along with Sketch Getter ‘B’ and Kill Joke) attended the first ComicConn as guests of the organizers. You even heard an interview with the vivacious Mitchell Hallock as he described the hard work that goes into putting on a show…especially what ended up being a very successful show. Well, here is the big news from Mitchell himself.
“The recent "Team-up" between the founders of ComiCONN and Wizard World Entertainment is a dream come true for the "fans" in the Nutmeg State and surrounding areas. It will bring forth a cavalcade of comic creators into Connecticut that will captivate and satiate the cravings fanboys (and girls) have had for decade! Nuff Said True Believer!
Seriously, as a comic and sci-fi genre fan for since I could read (or look at the pictures), I always wanted to meet my favorite artists, writers and actors from shows like Star Trek, Batman, Buck Rogers, Deep Space Nine, and movies like Terminator, Spider Man and more. But like Luke Skywalker use to whine, he lived in the place that was the farthest from the bright center of the universe. Yes, to me New Haven and Connecticut seemed like the Tattooine of New England (maybe Rhode Island was more remote). You would have thought that being so close to New York where they made the comics, we would see these creators all the time... but noooooooooooooooooooooo! You had to schlep out to NYC or Boston to then pay big money for travel, parking, to wait in line and be trampled on, and then schlep back home.
Erik (Yacko) and I changed that with ComiCONN, we showed you CAN have a Comic/Sci Fi Con in Connecticut and nearly 1000 fans agreed and showed up for the maiden voyage into fandom on May 15, 2010. We tested the waters and showed there were fans alive and well in CT who wanted more! Now being a small organization ComiCONN can and will continue to do great, more intimate shows.. a more relaxed "homey" feel where a fan can walk up to an artist/writer/ actor and talk for awhile, get photos and autographs and have a great time shopping for comics and collectibles. We arr already planning next years event and because of the size, we can build these shows around themes, like the 30th anniversary of Raiders of the Lost Ark, the new Capt America, Thor, and Green Lantern movies. And make it extra special with trivia contest, costume contest, workshops on how to draw and write and publish and overall give fans a fantastic day or two amongst their kindred spirit... we are fans and will always make our ComiCONN shows for THE FANS!
Lo and behold, Wizard saw what was happening and called and said hey guys, is this true? There are comic fans in the Nutmeg state? Would they like a massive show with stars, Batmobiles, Doc Brown's DeLoreons, Adam West, William Shatner, Billy Tucci, Brian Wong, Ethan Van Sciver? A show lasting 3 days with tons of dealers and merchandise, comics, toys, clothing, gadgets and more.... and we said is the Hulk green? (well yes… and red and grey and polka dot)! They said can you all help us tell us what the CT fans want in a BIG show in their state? and we said SURE! Thus a TEAM-UP was created!
Now the world will never be the same.... or Connecticut anyway... fans can expect large scale, star filled event from Wizard world (with the guys from ComiCONN on hand advising, promoting and consulting) coming early spring 2011. If fans have ever been to the big city cons, this will be a similar experience...and for the newbie? This will blow there mind... and best of all be a short drive to get there... thus the beauty of living in the 3rd smallest state in the union! Wizard will provide the kind f event comic fans dream about... and with a big focus on meeting celebrities from their favorite movie and tv shows. So this is great news...
But what will happen to the tiny but mighty ComiCONN? Like I said we are part of the Wizard family so we will be on hand at the big event, and will be promoting our smaller scale shows to a massive audience. If they liked the Wizard show and want more... then they come to us for, like I said, a smaller, yet more personal kind of show... stars, artist and writers... like going to a Super Bowl (Wizards show) and then coming back to your local team's game (us). We have to be realistic, we don't have the funds that Wizard has to put on a show that will fill an arena 50,000 sq ft and up... and can fly in dozens of actors and creators.... so like I said this will be a great show for the CT and other New England states to attend.... and we will still make ComiCONN the great event it is with a chance for you to talk with people they have been fans of for years...
As they once called a Star Trek cliif hanger.. It is the Best of Both Worlds... so prepare to be assimilated into a world of fandom on a grand scale right in your own backyard!
Speaking for myself, Mitch Hallock, I relish this time... I have always dreamed of this and I am glad that I can play a first hand role in making it happen! I loved ComiCONN and am amazed how fast it is all happening.. I remember in the 80s when we all wanted a big screen - good - super hero movie... now we get dozens... good super hero animation --- now there’s tons of it...heck we even get Star Wars cartoons week after week.. having these shows on an ongoing basis, just goes to prove that the age of the fan is here! Finally... now if I can get my own comic book writing career off the ground I can die a happy man... I am running out of things on my bucket list... do you hear that Marvel, DC, Image, IDW, Archie, Moonstone? I want to write some funny books?? I have the ideas.. heck I almost sold an X-File script for TV...call me.... please!!!!!!”
Thanks for the update Mitch!
Last month Brian and Matman (along with Sketch Getter ‘B’ and Kill Joke) attended the first ComicConn as guests of the organizers. You even heard an interview with the vivacious Mitchell Hallock as he described the hard work that goes into putting on a show…especially what ended up being a very successful show. Well, here is the big news from Mitchell himself.
“The recent "Team-up" between the founders of ComiCONN and Wizard World Entertainment is a dream come true for the "fans" in the Nutmeg State and surrounding areas. It will bring forth a cavalcade of comic creators into Connecticut that will captivate and satiate the cravings fanboys (and girls) have had for decade! Nuff Said True Believer!
Seriously, as a comic and sci-fi genre fan for since I could read (or look at the pictures), I always wanted to meet my favorite artists, writers and actors from shows like Star Trek, Batman, Buck Rogers, Deep Space Nine, and movies like Terminator, Spider Man and more. But like Luke Skywalker use to whine, he lived in the place that was the farthest from the bright center of the universe. Yes, to me New Haven and Connecticut seemed like the Tattooine of New England (maybe Rhode Island was more remote). You would have thought that being so close to New York where they made the comics, we would see these creators all the time... but noooooooooooooooooooooo! You had to schlep out to NYC or Boston to then pay big money for travel, parking, to wait in line and be trampled on, and then schlep back home.
Erik (Yacko) and I changed that with ComiCONN, we showed you CAN have a Comic/Sci Fi Con in Connecticut and nearly 1000 fans agreed and showed up for the maiden voyage into fandom on May 15, 2010. We tested the waters and showed there were fans alive and well in CT who wanted more! Now being a small organization ComiCONN can and will continue to do great, more intimate shows.. a more relaxed "homey" feel where a fan can walk up to an artist/writer/ actor and talk for awhile, get photos and autographs and have a great time shopping for comics and collectibles. We arr already planning next years event and because of the size, we can build these shows around themes, like the 30th anniversary of Raiders of the Lost Ark, the new Capt America, Thor, and Green Lantern movies. And make it extra special with trivia contest, costume contest, workshops on how to draw and write and publish and overall give fans a fantastic day or two amongst their kindred spirit... we are fans and will always make our ComiCONN shows for THE FANS!
Lo and behold, Wizard saw what was happening and called and said hey guys, is this true? There are comic fans in the Nutmeg state? Would they like a massive show with stars, Batmobiles, Doc Brown's DeLoreons, Adam West, William Shatner, Billy Tucci, Brian Wong, Ethan Van Sciver? A show lasting 3 days with tons of dealers and merchandise, comics, toys, clothing, gadgets and more.... and we said is the Hulk green? (well yes… and red and grey and polka dot)! They said can you all help us tell us what the CT fans want in a BIG show in their state? and we said SURE! Thus a TEAM-UP was created!
Now the world will never be the same.... or Connecticut anyway... fans can expect large scale, star filled event from Wizard world (with the guys from ComiCONN on hand advising, promoting and consulting) coming early spring 2011. If fans have ever been to the big city cons, this will be a similar experience...and for the newbie? This will blow there mind... and best of all be a short drive to get there... thus the beauty of living in the 3rd smallest state in the union! Wizard will provide the kind f event comic fans dream about... and with a big focus on meeting celebrities from their favorite movie and tv shows. So this is great news...
But what will happen to the tiny but mighty ComiCONN? Like I said we are part of the Wizard family so we will be on hand at the big event, and will be promoting our smaller scale shows to a massive audience. If they liked the Wizard show and want more... then they come to us for, like I said, a smaller, yet more personal kind of show... stars, artist and writers... like going to a Super Bowl (Wizards show) and then coming back to your local team's game (us). We have to be realistic, we don't have the funds that Wizard has to put on a show that will fill an arena 50,000 sq ft and up... and can fly in dozens of actors and creators.... so like I said this will be a great show for the CT and other New England states to attend.... and we will still make ComiCONN the great event it is with a chance for you to talk with people they have been fans of for years...
As they once called a Star Trek cliif hanger.. It is the Best of Both Worlds... so prepare to be assimilated into a world of fandom on a grand scale right in your own backyard!
Speaking for myself, Mitch Hallock, I relish this time... I have always dreamed of this and I am glad that I can play a first hand role in making it happen! I loved ComiCONN and am amazed how fast it is all happening.. I remember in the 80s when we all wanted a big screen - good - super hero movie... now we get dozens... good super hero animation --- now there’s tons of it...heck we even get Star Wars cartoons week after week.. having these shows on an ongoing basis, just goes to prove that the age of the fan is here! Finally... now if I can get my own comic book writing career off the ground I can die a happy man... I am running out of things on my bucket list... do you hear that Marvel, DC, Image, IDW, Archie, Moonstone? I want to write some funny books?? I have the ideas.. heck I almost sold an X-File script for TV...call me.... please!!!!!!”
Thanks for the update Mitch!
6-15-10: Matman Remembers Artist Al Williamson
As we all get older, the sad reality is so do our heroes. It seems we have been losing many of the greats lately and today I share with you news and memories of one of the greatest leaving us. Comic artist Al Williamson passed away this past weekend at the age of 79.
Al was one of the greats. In 1980 I was introduced to his work on Marvel’s adaptation of The Empire Strikes Back and was blown away by his realism and the fact that Luke looked like Luke and Stormtroopers looked the way they were supposed to… cool! To me Al was the definitive Star Wars artist and I wished this ‘new guy’ would stay on the book following the movie adaptation. What I didn’t know was this new guy began his comic book career some 30 years before ‘Empire’ and that he was one of the most celebrated artists of his time.
In the 1950’s Al worked at EC, drawing titles like Weird Fantasy and Weird Science. His art became the ‘definitive’ look of Flash Gordon and influence so many creators including George Lucas (more on that one later). His brilliance was seen in the pages of Eerie and Creepy magazines and worked as an inker at Marvel from the 1980’s to 2003. His style and encouragements helped artist like Berni Wrightson and Mike Kaluta break into the business and continue the look and feel Al cultivated.
Around 1979, George Lucas picked Al to do the art for adaptation of The Empire Strikes Back. George was a big fan of Al’s work on Flash Gordon and thought he’d be a perfect choice for not only ‘Empire’ but a planned Star Wars comic strip. In 1980 Star Wars hit newspapers all over the world, except mine and I was bummed. But my grandmother living in Massachusetts would clip them out and mount them on construction paper for me. Of course I would love to visit her, but I think I enjoyed ‘visiting’ Al just as much. To me, those visits to see her will always and forever be intertwined with those comic strips and Al’s incredible visuals. His work on the strip (brilliantly written by Archie Goodwin) tells the story between Star Wars and Empire; as the Rebels search for a base, avoid the Empire and any and all Bounty Hunters. It helped fill the timeline between films and also gave me more adventures to play with my Star Wars figures.
Al’s loss makes me remember a few things. First, the visits with my grandma (as I mentioned above) and second would be my love for ‘The Empire Strikes Back.’ I got the magazine size adaptation a month or so before the films release so I was ready when it hit the big screen. As a 12 year old, the plot to ‘Empire’ was more complex than in Star Wars and having a guide to follow helped me so much. His visuals were perfect.
I highly recommend comic readers, Star Wars fans and lovers of great sequential art seek out any all all collections of Al’s work. Dark Horse has released Classic Star Wars in trade and many of his Flash Gordon stories are collected as well.
Al, thank you so much for choosing art as a way to make a living. You will be missed.
Al was one of the greats. In 1980 I was introduced to his work on Marvel’s adaptation of The Empire Strikes Back and was blown away by his realism and the fact that Luke looked like Luke and Stormtroopers looked the way they were supposed to… cool! To me Al was the definitive Star Wars artist and I wished this ‘new guy’ would stay on the book following the movie adaptation. What I didn’t know was this new guy began his comic book career some 30 years before ‘Empire’ and that he was one of the most celebrated artists of his time.
In the 1950’s Al worked at EC, drawing titles like Weird Fantasy and Weird Science. His art became the ‘definitive’ look of Flash Gordon and influence so many creators including George Lucas (more on that one later). His brilliance was seen in the pages of Eerie and Creepy magazines and worked as an inker at Marvel from the 1980’s to 2003. His style and encouragements helped artist like Berni Wrightson and Mike Kaluta break into the business and continue the look and feel Al cultivated.
Around 1979, George Lucas picked Al to do the art for adaptation of The Empire Strikes Back. George was a big fan of Al’s work on Flash Gordon and thought he’d be a perfect choice for not only ‘Empire’ but a planned Star Wars comic strip. In 1980 Star Wars hit newspapers all over the world, except mine and I was bummed. But my grandmother living in Massachusetts would clip them out and mount them on construction paper for me. Of course I would love to visit her, but I think I enjoyed ‘visiting’ Al just as much. To me, those visits to see her will always and forever be intertwined with those comic strips and Al’s incredible visuals. His work on the strip (brilliantly written by Archie Goodwin) tells the story between Star Wars and Empire; as the Rebels search for a base, avoid the Empire and any and all Bounty Hunters. It helped fill the timeline between films and also gave me more adventures to play with my Star Wars figures.
Al’s loss makes me remember a few things. First, the visits with my grandma (as I mentioned above) and second would be my love for ‘The Empire Strikes Back.’ I got the magazine size adaptation a month or so before the films release so I was ready when it hit the big screen. As a 12 year old, the plot to ‘Empire’ was more complex than in Star Wars and having a guide to follow helped me so much. His visuals were perfect.
I highly recommend comic readers, Star Wars fans and lovers of great sequential art seek out any all all collections of Al’s work. Dark Horse has released Classic Star Wars in trade and many of his Flash Gordon stories are collected as well.
Al, thank you so much for choosing art as a way to make a living. You will be missed.
6-14-10: Community Member Sparkster Is The First To Complete Part One Of The NEStacular Summer Challenge!
With 16 days to spare, SI community member Sparkster submitted the first proof of completing of the NEStacular Summer Challenge--Part One, which was to beat Super Mario Bros. by the end of the month. Hailing from France, Sparkster has been listening to Secret Identity since around issue #70!
Sparkster can take a breather until the beginning of july, when we'll be moving on to Part Two of the challenge--Metroid.
The rest of you out there have sixteen days to get through Super Mario Bros. and submit your phtos to us. We'll be starting a gallery after we get a few more.
Congrats to Sparkster!
Sparkster can take a breather until the beginning of july, when we'll be moving on to Part Two of the challenge--Metroid.
The rest of you out there have sixteen days to get through Super Mario Bros. and submit your phtos to us. We'll be starting a gallery after we get a few more.
Congrats to Sparkster!
5-20-10: Get Ready For The Cartridgecade NEStacular Summer Challenge!!
Through our Cartridgecade segments on Secret Identity, we like to revisit the good old days of gaming and pay tribute to the games that paved the way for the multi-million dollar, high-definition cinematic experiences that we enjoy today. We remember the days when a group of friends would spend their Summer vacation playing video games, and as the Summer of 2010 approaches, we want to bring a little of that magic back.
Get ready for the Cartridgecade NEStacular Summer Challenge! Three games, three months, all awesome.
JUNE: Super Mario Bros.—the game that changed everything when it arrived in the US in March of 1986. Arguably the greatest video game ever created, and a shining beacon of level design, perfect controls and amazing platforming.
JULY: Metroid—Another groundbreaking game that arrived in August of1986, Metroid eschewed traditional level design and created a world that encouraged exploration and combined great platforming and boss-battling shooter action. Not to mention the twist ending (we won’t spoil it for you if you’ve been living under a rock for the past 25 years).
AUGUST: The Legend of Zelda—A game so epic, it was mind-blowing to think the NES could contain it. A hero named link sets out into a dangerous world full of dungeons, monsters and strange cave-dwelling salesmen to save the princess. This one hit American shores in August of 1987, over a year after its release in Japan. It was worth the wait, and it laid the foundation for console-based roleplaying games.
So here’s how it’s going to work. You play and complete one game a month. Taking a page from the old Activision games of yore, we want you to take a picture of yourself and the completed game screen and send it to us before the last day of each month. We’ll post the pics on Cartridgecade and Secret Identity. If you complete all three games within their 30-day timeframes, you will get a prize. What’s the prize? A Cartridgecade NEStacular Summer Challenge poster print featuring artwork by the lovely and talented Mr. Jason May himself! You can even sew it on your jean jacket!
The clock starts ticking on June 1, so go out and find copies of the games so you can get started. All three games are currently available on the Nintendo Wii’s Virtual console service. All three were released as “NES Classics” for the Gameboy Advance (and work on the Nintendo DS). There are also various sites on the web that offer roms and emulation (although we don’t have money to bail you out if the pirate police come knockin’).
You've got almost two weeks of doing thumb push-ups and playing your current-gen sissy games with their 'save anywhere,' causal difficulty, hand-holding easiness before you take a little trip to retrotown and rediscover your gaming roots. So get ready!!!!!!!
Get ready for the Cartridgecade NEStacular Summer Challenge! Three games, three months, all awesome.
JUNE: Super Mario Bros.—the game that changed everything when it arrived in the US in March of 1986. Arguably the greatest video game ever created, and a shining beacon of level design, perfect controls and amazing platforming.
JULY: Metroid—Another groundbreaking game that arrived in August of1986, Metroid eschewed traditional level design and created a world that encouraged exploration and combined great platforming and boss-battling shooter action. Not to mention the twist ending (we won’t spoil it for you if you’ve been living under a rock for the past 25 years).
AUGUST: The Legend of Zelda—A game so epic, it was mind-blowing to think the NES could contain it. A hero named link sets out into a dangerous world full of dungeons, monsters and strange cave-dwelling salesmen to save the princess. This one hit American shores in August of 1987, over a year after its release in Japan. It was worth the wait, and it laid the foundation for console-based roleplaying games.
So here’s how it’s going to work. You play and complete one game a month. Taking a page from the old Activision games of yore, we want you to take a picture of yourself and the completed game screen and send it to us before the last day of each month. We’ll post the pics on Cartridgecade and Secret Identity. If you complete all three games within their 30-day timeframes, you will get a prize. What’s the prize? A Cartridgecade NEStacular Summer Challenge poster print featuring artwork by the lovely and talented Mr. Jason May himself! You can even sew it on your jean jacket!
The clock starts ticking on June 1, so go out and find copies of the games so you can get started. All three games are currently available on the Nintendo Wii’s Virtual console service. All three were released as “NES Classics” for the Gameboy Advance (and work on the Nintendo DS). There are also various sites on the web that offer roms and emulation (although we don’t have money to bail you out if the pirate police come knockin’).
You've got almost two weeks of doing thumb push-ups and playing your current-gen sissy games with their 'save anywhere,' causal difficulty, hand-holding easiness before you take a little trip to retrotown and rediscover your gaming roots. So get ready!!!!!!!
