Welcome back to Graphic Breakdown! This week non DC titles were a bit slow, and I can’t find it in my heart to review Civil War over at Marvel.

So we are going to focus on books I enjoy to read again, that I have either bought or read recently.

The Shadow: The Death Of Margo Lane #1-3 

Written and Illustrated by Matt Wagner
Published by Dynamite Entertainment

This is the first three of  Matt Wagner’s five issue run of The Shadow, both writing and illustrating the story The Death Of Margo Lane. And honestly, it’s great. Just damn great.

As Marvel and DC continue to bore me, it’s great to see such publishers as Archie and IDW really putting out top notch work. Dynamite is no different. This is a superb story. The Shadow has to investigate what happened to his agent Margo Lane.

Wagner really knows how to put the character through his paces, His writing is strong. He also is one of the few writer/artists who can still do both equally strong. His artwork is wonderful. It fits The Shadow’s world in a unique, but classic way. I’m loving it.

After following Mage and Grendel and pretty much anything Wagner has done, it’s great to see him still producing top quality work, years after his contemporaries have faded to obscurity. Now get to work on Mage 3, Matt. But congrats on this book.

RATING: A

The Abaddon 

Written and Illustrated by Koren Shadmi
Published by Z2 Comics

So last week I read and reviewed a book by Koren Shadmi. I since went online and bought the rest of the books that he has either written and illustrated or just did the art on.

I read through Mike’s Place (which is an A+ book and I may review in a future column), and then read through this book in one sitting.

I loved Mike’s Place, but decided to review this as I found it to be a huge accomplishment in the comic book field.

The story is about a young man who finds himself trapped in a bizarre apartment with a group of ill matched roommates. He quickly discovers that his new home doesn’t adhere to any rational laws of nature, and poses a strange enigma — a puzzle he needs to solve in order to escape. It’s no help that both him and his roommates are missing crucial parts of their memories and identities; he must try and gather the missing pieces as he struggles to find a way out. It is based loosely on the play No Exit.

This was originally a web comic. But man, if they are producing quality like this on the web, we may have to rethink our buying strategies. Shadmi may indeed be the best writer/artist you never heard of. Pick up this book and any of his work. The writing is superb. The artwork is gorgeous. It’s so fluid you almost feel as if you are watching an old school animator plying their trade right in front of you. Emotional, brutal, powerful. This is truly something else. Anyone who can get me to read something this quick deserves an A+

RATING: A+

Bloodshot: Reborn V. 3: The Analog Man

Collecting issues #10-13
Written by Jeff Lemire and Illustrated by Lewis LaRosa
Published by Valiant Entertainment

This was one of my favorite reads of the year UNTIL the last few pages.

I understand why Lemire did what he did. Still, it hardly takes away from the ride of the entire book.

This is “Old Man Logan” for Bloodshot. It may be a bit cooler though. The world has ended. Bloodshot is now outdated. He is taking care of a small group of survivors.

When their safety becomes at risk it’s up to Bloodshot to save the day…maybe one last time.

This look at the future of the Valiant Universe was bold.

Lemire writes a great story here with nice characterizations. And LaRosa is a gem of an artist. I love his work. He’s strong here, perhaps his best work.

All in all, a great story, well worth your money. Pick it up and support a great line of books.

RATING: A-

BURIED TREASURE
Brought to Light 

Written by Alan Moore and Joyce Brabner
Illustrated by Bill Sienkiewicz and Thomas Yeates
Published by Eclipse Comics

It’s taken me quite awhile to re-read this book but I am glad I did.  This is a docu-comic that I read years ago and forgotten about and decided to re-read this week. If anyone has read this, you get a prize from me. Let me know.

It’s only 74 pages long but man those 74 pages are horrifying.

Brought to Light: Thirty Years of Drug Smuggling, Arms Deals, and Covert Action is an anthology of two political graphic novels, published originally by Eclipse Comics in 1988, with a Hardcover version published in 1989.

Both stories are based on material from lawsuits filed by the Christic Institute against the US Government. The two stories are Shadowplay: The Secret Team by Alan Moore and Bill Sienkiewicz, and Flashpoint: The LA Penca Bombing documented by Martha Honey and Tony Avirgan and adapted by Joyce Brabner and Tom Yeates.

Brabner does a great job as does Yeates on the art for their portion. The Moore section with Sienkiewicz may be the best work either of them has done but not many have seen it. It’s worth tracking down and has not been reprinted.

I’m not going to lie. This book isn’t easy to swallow or get through. But man, if you do? Your perspective of where you live may be changed forever.

RATING: A

For the first time, Oscar-winning production designer and director Roger Christian reveals his life story, from his earliest work in the British film industry to his breakthrough contributions on such iconic science fiction masterpieces as Star Wars, Alien and his own cult classic Black Angel.

This candid biography delves into his relationships with legendary figures, as well as the secrets of his greatest work. The man who built the lightsaber finally speaks!

And we’re giving away three copies!

To enter, please send an email with the subject header “CINEMA ALCHEMIST” to geekcontest @ gmail dot com and answer the following:

Roger Christian directed this 2000 film which is considered to be one of the “worst movies ever made”?

Please include your name and address (U.S. Residents only. You must be 18 years old).

Only one entry per person and a winner will be chosen at random.

Contest ends at 11:59 PM EST on August 28th, 2016.

Giant Flick Films LLC., has announced that writer/director/actor Shahin Sean Solimon who is best known for the title Sinbad: The Fifth Voyage (2014) PG-13 will be helming, and starring in this unique project.

“I’m actually a fan of the original Ed Wood classic, and was very excited when it was decided to develop this very fun Sci-Fi adventure. Ed was a filmmaker in the 50′s that had very few resources, money, backup,
technology, etc. to help him. He did however, have a TON of excitement, passion, and enthusiasm for making movies. I can relate to that, and he should not be forgotten.” said Solimon. “I wrote this picture as an original classic Sci-Fi story and script. I think Sci-Fi fans will love this version. It is a unique post-apocalyptic story, very character driven. It will be a classic noir, action packed, with romance, aliens, and zombies. Yes some nuances from the original. More info will come forth as we move forward.”

According to Solimon, Plan 9 from Outer Space is set in a world that has been destroyed by an Asteroid. The project is being developed and headed for public funding, and will give the fans a chance to be involved by offering unique perks and the chance to even be producers.

“It takes so long to get a film produced and shot the traditional way, and in this day and age of quick feedback, access to so much technology, I think it will be fun to let the fans in on the ride, and we are looking forward to making this a crowd funding project. More projects are on the horizon if that model works.” said Solimon.

No release dates are set yet for Plan 9 from Outer Space since the project is in development. More info can be found by visiting the Facebook page.

The IndieGoGo campaign launches on August 29th.  To support the project, click HERE.

The trailer for Netflix’s upcoming Luke Cage is making the rounds this week, and my goodness does it pack a punch.

Starring Mike Colter as the invincible hero-for-hire who walks the streets of Harlem, Marvel’s Power Man looks like it will offer the same gritty, well-written world to the small screen that includes inhabitant’s Jessica Jones and Daredevil.

Cage is another step in Marvel’s eventual world domination. Upcoming anti heroes Iron Fist and The Punisher are set to make their Netflix debuts, culminating in The Defenders, the ultimate team-up miniseries that will prove to be the uber angsty version of the Avengers.

Set to premiere sometime in 2017, The Defenders will team up the emotionally crippled PTSD Jones (Krysten Ritter), her one-time hook-up and bar owning badass Cage, blind legal eagle Matt Murdock (Charlie Cox) and a caucasian Danny Rand (Finn Jones).

Second Amendment enthusiast Frank Castle (Jon Bernthal) will sit this one out as part of the official lineup, but that’s not to say he won’t show up.

The lineup for the Netflix series is a mixed bag of past lineups from the original series, which debuted in 1972. While Cage was always a mainstay in the The Defenders, Iron Fist didn’t become a team player until 2011 when Matt Fraction reintroduced the team. And Daredevil and the Lady Jones were never part of the gang.

Creating The Defenders opens a lot of doors for Marvel in as far as introducing more characters to the small screen universe. While original Defenders Doctor Strange and Hulk have their own thing going on with the silver screen, other Marvel mainstays and major characters can be included in later incarnations, or at least given a shout out in hopes of future series.

It has long been thought that the relationship between Marvel and Netflix is the perfect place to reboot tarnished heroes to bombed at the box office and introduce big players who have yet to make a movie deal. Rumors of new versions of Blade and Ghost Rider are already making the rounds, but what about characters that NEED this new intro.

That in mind, here is small wishlist of supers who needs to make their small screen bow via the streaming service.

The Silver Surfer

The space-traveling humanoid who was once a lackey of Galactus made a big screen debut in 2007 in the abysmal Fantastic Four: Rise of the Silver Surfer. Thus, a brand-new Netflix reboot is just what the doctor ordered, if Marvel can wrestle the rights away from Fox.

Namor, The Sub-Mariner

This saltwater superhero in a Speedo has always been a fan favorite if only for his disdain for mankind as a whole. Filled with angst and armed with an FU attitude, Namor is often credited as Marvel’s first mutant given his Golden Age roots as a character from Timely Comics in the ‘40s.

For a bulk of his career, Namor was always on the brink of destroying mankind. It would be amazing to see how he can work his way into the new Marvel Universe.

She-Hulk

I will tell you right now that She-Hulk is my favorite Marvel character of all time. Despite recent controversy that paints the cousin of Bruce Banner as a sex object, do not underestimate the Jennifer Walters alter-ego.

She-Hulk has been a member of almost every single Marvel match-up and superhero fighting group since her debut in 1980. And while many people find it easy to dismiss her as a green bombshell in a bathing suit, let’s not forget that Walters is one of the great brains of the Marvel Uuniverse.

Also, the great green one has a fab sense of humor, which is a major part of her own book. She can easily be added to lighten things up.

Hellcat

If there’s one character that I’d bet money on showing up in The Defenders it’s Hellcat.  Although in the comics she’s sometimes blessed with a force field and supernatural precognitive abilities, Hellcat is, at her core a well-trained martial artist and uses retractable claws.  In the comics, she’s known as Patsy Walker, who’s young adult life was fictionalized and chronicled as a comic book character by her novelist mother.

Since Trish Walker (played by Rachael Taylor in Jessica Jones) was seen training extensively in martial arts and shares a similar background (Trish was a former child star who was exploited by her publicity happy mother), and is best friends with Jessica, the chances of her donning a uniform are pretty likely.

Nighthawk

There have been a handful of Nighthawks throughout the Marvel Universe, but perhaps the strongest version for this new Marvel Universe is Kyle Richmond, whose tragic backstory includes the accidental death of his college sweetie, a heart problem and alcoholism.

Originally a villain, the hero becomes best buddies with Daredevil, even saving him from Hell on one occasion.

   Luke Cage premieres Friday, September 30th on Netflix
Jessica Jones season two begin production in 2017.
Iron Fist and The Defenders have premiere dates set for 2017.

See how saving the world takes a little Hart and a big Johnson when “Central Intelligence” arrives onto Ultra HD Blu-ray, Blu-ray, DVD and Digital HD. Dwayne Johnson and Kevin Hart star in the action comedy “Central Intelligence,” for New Line Cinema and Universal Pictures. “Central Intelligence” also stars Oscar® nominee Amy Ryan (“Gone Baby Gone”), Aaron Paul (TV’s “Breaking Bad”), and Danielle Nicolet (TV’s “The Game”).

The story follows a one-time bullied geek, Bob (Johnson), who grew up to be a lethal CIA agent, coming home for his high school reunion. Claiming to be on a top-secret case, Bob enlists the help of former “big man on campus,” Calvin (Hart), now an accountant who misses his glory days. But before the staid numbers-cruncher realizes what he’s getting into, it’s too late to get out, as his increasingly unpredictable new friend drags him through a world of shoot-outs, double-crosses and espionage that could get them both killed in more ways than Calvin can count.

The film is directed by Rawson Marshall Thurber (“We’re the Millers,” “Dodgeball”) and produced by Scott Stuber (“Ted”), Peter Principato (TV’s “Black-ish”), Paul Young (“Black-ish”) and Michael Fottrell (“Furious Seven”). The executive producers are Toby Emmerich, Richard Brener, Samuel J. Brown, Michael Disco and Ed Helms.

The Ultra HD Blu-ray, Blu-ray and Digital HD include an unrated version of the film containing more than 8 minutes of previously unseen footage.

“Central Intelligence” will be available on September 27 on Ultra HD Blu-ray for $44.95, Blu-ray for $29.98 and DVD for $28.98. The Ultra HD Blu-ray features an Ultra HD Blu-ray disc with the unrated version and the theatrical version in 4K with HDR and a Digital HD copy of the theatrical version. The Blu-ray features the unrated version and theatrical version of the film in hi-definition and a Digital HD copy of the theatrical version.  The DVD features the theatrical version in standard definition. Fans can also own Central Intelligence” via purchase from digital retailers.

“Central Intelligence” Blu-ray contains the following special features:

• Director Commentary
• Gag Reel
• Alternate Scenes
• Line-O-Rama
• Couch Scene
• Dance-Off

“Central Intelligence” Standard Definition DVD contains the following special features:

• Director Commentary
• Gag Reel
• Alternate Scenes
• Line-O-Rama
• Couch Scene
• Dance-Off

DIGITAL DISTRIBUTION ELEMENTS

On September 13 “Central Intelligence” will be available to own for streaming and download to watch anywhere in high definition and standard definition on favorite devices from select digital retailers including Amazon, CinemaNow, Flixster, iTunes, PlayStation, Vudu, Xbox and others. On September 27 “Central Intelligence” will be made available digitally on Video On Demand services from cable and satellite providers, and on select gaming consoles.

ABOUT DIGITAL HD WITH ULTRAVIOLET

*Digital HD with UltraViolet allows fans to watch a digital version of their movie or TV show anywhere, on their favorite devices. Digital HD with UltraViolet is included with the purchase of specially marked Blu-ray discs. Digital HD with UltraViolet allows consumers to instantly stream and download movies and TV shows to TVs, computers, tablets and smartphones through UltraViolet retail services like CinemaNow, Flixster, Vudu and more. For more information on compatible devices go to wb.com/ultravioletdevices. Consult an UltraViolet Retailer for details and requirements and for a list of HD-compatible devices.

Facebook.com/CentralIntelligenceMovie
#CentralIntelligence

Arriving mid-season, Riverdale is certainly not your parents’ Archie Comics.  Here’s the first look:

Twilight Zone: The Complete Series includes 156 episodes of Rod Serling’s classic television series in one special box set. This episodes-only collection includes all 5 seasons of the groundbreaking TV series. Guest stars include Art Carney, Burgess Meredith, Cliff Robertson, Dennis Hopper, Bill Bixby, Leonard Nimoy, Burt Reynolds, Don Rickles, Jack Klugman, Robert Redford, Lee Marvin, Martin Landau, Telly Savalas, William Shatner and many more.

Welcome back to Graphic Breakdown! Time to talk about this weeks titles over at the DC Rebirth.

Batman #5  

Written by Tom King
Illustrated by David Finch
Published by DC Comics

Tom King’s first arc on Batman comes to a close in the same lackluster way it began. This is the one that made me the saddest. A great writer. A great artist. A book that isn’t great at all.

It’s not all bad. There are moments. But for me they don’t add up to much. It’s just a serviceable story and art by two talents that are anything but.

I kind of wish John Romita Jr. and Finch would switch places on their respective Bat-Titles…maybe the art on each would be a little more inspired? Or maybe not. I enjoyed Scott Snyder’s writing…I prefer that one over this.

The next arc I saw coming doesn’t look much better. Let’s hope it is. This one was a real shame. I hope it picks up soon.

RATING:C+

Aquaman #5

Written by Dan Abnett and Illustrated by Phillipe Briones
Published by DC Comics

There’s an Aquaman movie coming out. You wouldn’t know it to read the latest iteration of Aquaman.

Aquaman has never been a favorite, yet there have been some great takes on him. This is not one of those great takes.

The writing is flat on this. The art doesn’t do much to elevate it. It’s just another book destined to end up in a ten cent bin at a convention and then you read it and feel ripped off.

Again, the creators on this are talented but the work they are doing here isn’t exciting at all.

Hopefully this gets canceled and somebody figures out what to do with it.

There are plenty of other things to spend your money on.

RATING: D

Batgirl and Birds of Prey #1 

Written by Julie and Shawna Benson and Illustrated by Claire Roe
Published by DC Comics

Just like the previous issue of this title, this is a lot of fun. I thought the Bensons did a great job of tackling the female characters here.

They also have one of the better takes on Batgirl I’ve read.

The story here is “Who is Oracle?” this is a lighter tale but I actually found myself interested and caring. This is a really fluid story and a great start to a series. The characters have great dialogue and you actually care somewhat to what happens to them.

See? I ask for very little!

The art by Roe certainly elevates the book and it’s wonderful to look at.

The story and art work hand in hand and together work beautifully. I’ll be interested to see where it goes. It certainly stands out in the current DC lineup.

RATING: B

Suicide Squad: Rebirth #1 

Written by Rob Williams
Illustrated by Jim Lee and Jason Fabok
Published by DC Comics

By far one of the most anticipated titles of August is this book.

And this is yet another book that could have been great, but comes off a little shoddy. It’s actually not bad, but it’s so far removed from the Suicide Squad I know that it came off like Suicide Squad by way of early Image.

The John Ostrander/Luke McConnell run on this title years ago was fantastic.

This doesn’t come close to that. It’s not bad, but it’s not as much fun as you hope. Williams has fun with the writing, but I feel you need a writer with some real cajones on this title.

And Jim Lee is providing the art. It’s okay art, but by no means amazing. I wonder how long he will stay on the title.

The backup story by Williams and Fabok is better than the main story. But it shouldn’t be like that. I wish there was a more “dangerous” feeling to this book like the book I used to read rather than the “Commercial” feeling it left me with.

RATING: B-

Green Arrow #5 

Written by Benjamin Percy and Illustrated by Juan Ferreyra
Published by DC Comics

As Green Arrow gets further and further away from the Green Arrow I grew up with, the art just keeps on soaring on this book for me. Ferreyra is spectacular.

The writing isn’t bad, but for some reason I feel like Percy may be running out of steam. It’s getting a little too much like Green Arrow is the DC answer to James Bond for him. Which isn’t the Oliver I know.

But even when the story doesn’t work the art does. So I’m following it with open eyes. Get this guy on a Batman or Superman title.

The last two pages of this book are gorgeous. Just gorgeous. Pick it up if only for that. But it’s not a bad book. Better than most in the new DC line.

RATING: B

Green Lanterns #5

Written by Sam Humphries and Illustrated by Robson Rocha and Eduardo Pansica
Published by DC Comics

Part five of the Rage Planet storyline had me laughing out loud at one part.

I honestly lost all interest in this title. Yet, I couldn’t hold it back. So I am upping the grade for the belly laugh.

The story is pretty straightforward and dull and the art, while decent, leaves me kind of cold.

So I won’t rip into the book too badly, just to say it’ll probably be canceled. And soon.

Oh, the line that made me crack up? A Red Lantern screams out “Red Dawn is Coming!”

I was done at that point. Then I watched the 80’s version of Red Dawn.

RATING: D

Harley Quinn #2 

Written by Jimmy Palmiotti and Amanda Connor
Illustrated by Bret Blevins, Char Hardin and John Timms
Published By DC Comics

I said it before I don’t really read this title. But this? I have enjoyed.

The writing is goofy and fun.

The writers have a great handle on Quinn. And what’s great, is that DC didn’t really change anything on this for the fans.

I have to say I enjoyed seeing the layouts of Bret Blevins. He’s a good artist we haven’t seen lately! Bring him back for more things! I like Blevins and the energy he brings.

So if you are a Harley Quinn fan pick up this book.

If you’re not? Give it a chance.

I had fun reading it and while it won’t save the world, it’s better than most.

RATING: B

Justice League #3 

Written by Bryan Hitch and Illustrated by Tony S. Daniel
Published by DC Comics

So part three of “The Extinction Machines” rages on, and it’s not a bad version of the League. It just feels pretty on the outside and hollow on the inside. You’d think DC would realize there is a Justice League movie coming up.

That’s not to say this is horrible. It isn’t. It’s just…okay. It doesn’t seem to take place in the regular DC Universe either.

Just “Hitchverse.” Why can’t there be any continuity or connection? This books especially feels like it’s coasting out in the middle of nowhere.

Still, hitch is a better artist than a writer so the story is okay. And Daniel is a good artist. It just feels less than epic overall and less than what it could be.

RATING: C+

Superman #5 

Written by Peter J. Tomasi and Patrick Gleason and Illustrated by Doug Mahnke
Published by DC Comics

Because Doomsday wasn’t enough to make you feel like it’s the 90s, this team has brought back The Eradicator. Does anyone remember him? If you answered no you can sleep peacefully. If it’s yes, well I’m sorry but he’s back.

The story is limping along in this title and in all of the Superman titles pretty severely. I find myself hardly caring of what is going on.

Yet, this issue gets a higher grade. And why? The Doug Mahnke art on this is so damn good and passionate, that I couldn’t look away. Mahnke has always been a talent and It’s good to see him. That last panel is especially good.

Maybe it’s time to reboot some of these titles however. You could start with the Superman line and see how that goes.

RATING: C+

Scooby Doo and the Apocalypse #4 

Written by Keith Giffen and J.M. Dematteis and illustrated by Howard Porter
Published by DC Comics

The hot dumpster fire that is this title is raging on.

This is one of the worst titles of the year. If not the century. If not ever.

Such talent behind this title.

Put them on Superman! But for gods sake, it’s almost unbearable to read.

Please somebody save these three creators.

I have nothing else to write except maybe put hot pokers in your eyes rather than read this.

It may be less painful

RATING: F

Nightwing #2 

Written by Tim Seeley and Illustrated by Javier Fernandez
Published by DC Comics

Well, the storyline “Better Than Batman” is back this week. The new character of Raptor is here. And he’s boring as can be. The story isn’t half bad, but it’s so damn predictable it feels written by the numbers rather than be organic.

Nightwing and Raptor and even Batgirl team up here. Nightwing and Raptor are friends. They’re not friends. The Court of the Owls show up. And the rest is just unsurprising.

That’s not to say that Seeley can’t write. There are some nice flourishes and moments. And the art is pretty good too. It has a nice design to it.

Still, I want to see more from Seeley, so I challenge him to write a stronger book. I know he has it in him. He’s not quite there yet for me.

RATING: B-

Supergirl: Rebirth #1 

Written by Steve Orlando and Illustrated by Emanuela Lupacchino
Published by DC Comics

I figured I would end this week with one of the better Rebirth launches.

Supergirl feels different than anything we’ve seen with Rebirth. It could stand to be stronger.

I feel like this book has potential though. It’s what they do with it from here. I feel like Orlando has a good story overall to tell us. He does a decent job in the first issue.

I did want more meat and more emotions but in this current climate I’ll take what I can get.

The art is perfectly lovely here, and I went back after I read it just to look and that’s a rare thing. One of the splash pages is gorgeous to look at and can make a nice poster even.

But will this last?

Time will tell. It depends on the story that is told and how well it is told. Time will tell. But a decent enough start.

RATING: B

I’ve read a lot of comics.  Chances are more than you ever will.  And many of the books I’ve read aren’t particularly very good.  Sure, there are exceptions to the rule.  There have been some brilliant writers in the medium and there have been some books that have brought me overwhelming joy or excitement.

Unfortunately, those days are more the exception to the rule.  Recently I had the opportunity to read the first three issues of Hadrian’s Wall, an upcoming 8 issue series from Image Comics written by Kyle Higgins and Alec Siegel and illustrated by Rod Reis.

And it’s good.  Better than good.  If the rest of the series is as good as the first three issues, you’re going to have a book that will sweep awards, find mainstream audiences and have a large audience of readers in line for their next project. 

I had the opportunity to discuss the upcoming title with Higgins and Siegel and am already anticipating December when the fourth issue (the next one I’m waiting to read) is released.

FOG!: What is the premise of Hadrian’s Wall?  And what was the genesis of the project?

Kyle Higgins: It’s a locked-room, murder mystery on a spaceship. Our main character, Simon Moore, is an investigator who’s hired to rubber stamp the death of an astronaut, Edward Madigan, who dies in the opening of issue one.

Simon heads to the ship– named Hadrian’s Wall– initially out of a sense of Schadenfreude, as the deceased is not only an ex-friend of Simon’s, but was also married to Simon’s ex-wife. Of course, once Simon arrives and starts getting into things, he realizes that the situation is even murkier than we thought. So, in addition to trying to figure out this case, Simon will also have to navigate his own failed marriage. His ex-wife, Annabelle, is both on board the ship and also a suspect.

The background to all this is a Cold War between Earth and its biggest colony on Theta, which makes the book as much about broken relationships as it does a murder mystery.

Having read (and loved the first three issues), how did you approach structuring the mystery? Was the entire series outlined before you started writing?

KH: Not super intricately, no.

Alec Siegel: We had big sign posts and knew our ending, as well as some of our twists though. And the emotional arc, and the characters.

KH: Right. And look, locked room murder mysteries are– in the best way– character studies. Who are our crew members? What brought them out to the ship? What are their sordid pasts? And what are their relationships to each other? Those are the building blocks for this story, and Simon’s investigation into them brings those histories to the forefront.

AS: Yeah. For example, there’s Franklin, the ship’s geologist, who dislikes authority, resents the very fact that there’s an investigator on the ship, and didn’t particularly like or respect Edward. Then there’s Captain Drekker, who is skeptical of Simon’s investigation… but is it because he’s hiding facts about Edward? Or because he doesn’t trust the very company he works for?

There’s also the ship’s physician, Dr. Kharlamov, who failed to do a proper autopsy and Selina, the ship’s astrophysicist. Both of them are willing to aid Simon, but he’s not sure where their allegiances lie, or if they have ulterior motives. And then, of course, there’s Annabelle, who has to deal with the fact that her husband is dead and her ex-husband has been brought out to investigate. For her, it’s no longer about just dealing with this tragedy, but trying to avoid her past life with Simon.

KH: On the process side, one of the benefits of the current setup at Image– where you have to fully finish the first three issues before you solicit– is that it gave us time to go back and shore anything up that we may have missed, or that might have changed during the actual process of writing the book. Murder mysteries are tough, and you’re constantly juggling reader expectations and misleads with clarity in the killer’s plot. It’s tough to do, and there was definitely a lot of discussion, outlining, and rewriting as we went along. I will say, as far as normal comic production goes, this was actually a very freeing way to work.  
The series is very reminiscent of both Alien and older James Cameron films especially The Abyss. The characters are in a science-fiction environment, but are very realistic, work-for-hire employees; there to do a job until someone turns up dead. What were your influences/inspirations for the series?

AS: Well, I think you hit the nail on the head. Kyle and I always approach things from a standpoint of, how could this work in real life? So we try to make our characters feel like real people with real problems… no matter what the extraordinary circumstances of the story are. We talk about this a lot, but the aspect of world building that we really pride ourselves is figuring out what the normal and the mundane would be within the extraordinary. That helps us keep things centered and relatable.

Movies like Alien, Blade Runner, The Abyss… anything that feels grounded, despite its sci-fi nature, was a big influence on us.

As co-writers, how do you collaborate and what do you feel that the other brings to the table?

KH: Alec’s a fantastic world builder. Which is part of why we keep doing these big alt-history and alt-future stories together. As he kind of just alluded to, he’s able to to world build in a way that stays grounded but still gets us the most mileage out of the idea. That’s a big thing to me– with any sort of high concept endeavor, the way you explore the concept and present the idea is paramount. We spend a lot of time going through different iterations and permutations, as we’re both pretty obsessed with making sure we land on the most interesting version that also provides the most story and emotional mileage. He’s also someone who can put up with me, which is definitely no easy task. I tend to be incredibly type A as a writer, and if something isn’t working… I don’t mince words.

On the flip side, it’s never, ever personal, and he knows that. I might kick the tires on something over and over, getting myself caught in obsessive compulsive loops, but it’s just part of my process and he doesn’t judge me for it. We’ve been close friends since high school, and have been writing together in one form or another since college. We were also roommates for a long time, so yeah. We know each other really well. At the end of the day, the number one thing that keeps us working together is that it’s fun, and we’re really proud of the work we do together.

AS: Yeah, exactly. We can be seemingly brutal when it comes to how we receive ideas and give feedback from one another, but it’s all in service of the story. And like Kyle said, it’s not personal. It’s never personal. It’s just one-hundred-percent honesty, and it’s always about the idea and what it gets us, as opposed to some judgement on the person who gave it. We know each other so well that neither of us worries that’s what the other is doing. And that’s important, because we need to be able to be completely honest in order to push things further and make sure we’re not settling for the low hanging fruit idea, if there might be a more complex and interesting version that we just haven’t fully figured out. Spoiler alert… there usually is.

KH: Like any relationship, ours is based on respect. He knows I respect him, and have his back, which means that when I say Hm, yeah, I feel like there’s a more interesting version of that… I’m not judging. And vice versa.

AS: As for the process of actually working, we’ve got kind of a fairly stable routine of breaking stories and issues more or less together, and then divvying up scenes and tackling them independently, before trading and rewriting each other. By the end, though, one of us is usually siting at the computer typing while the other paces and we actually write any final lines together.

As Kyle said, we’ve known each other for so long and been through so much together that there’s not much that really rattles us.

How did Rod Reis get involved in the project?

KH: Basically… because I refuse to let him go. Honestly, at this point, it’s hard to imagine NOT doing a book with Rod. C.O.W.L. was so much fun and so creatively fulfilling, we all knew we’d caught a bit of lightning in a bottle, working together. So, when we were wrapping it up– for now– we immediately started looking for something else to do together.

I had this concept of a murder mystery on a spaceship that I’d wanted to explore for some time, but never really had much more than that. The idea of Rod bringing that world to life, though, in a retro-futuristic 80’s-inspired comic was so exciting that it got me to dive in and start building.

I want to work with Rod for as long as I’m making comics. Mark my words– he’s going to explode into a superstar talent. I can’t wait for people to see how incredible his work on this book is.

Murder mystery stories are finite and this is only eight issues long. Would you want to revisit P.I. Simon Moore or the world you created in a follow-up?

KH: The world is very interesting to us, yeah. So, without giving anything away… yeah. It’s a possibility. That said, you nailed it when you said murder mysteries are finite. And there are other aspects of our story and world that are finite as well. Which is a long winded way of saying… you’ll have to read the book to see what I mean.

What else so you have in the pipeline?

KH: Well, I’m doing a few other creator owned books that aren’t announced yet, plus Mighty Morphin Power Rangers at BOOM!. I’ve got another cool work-for-hire project that may be announced in the next month or two, and I’m starting to screen a film I wrote and directed last year– called The Shadow Hours— at festivals. It’s a neo-noir thriller starring Tom Riley and Britt Lower, about two identical twins with a condition– only one of them can be awake at a time. You can head over to theshadowhours.com to see more about it.

AS: I’ve also got another solo book in the works, but it’s a little too early to say much about it other than it’s a period action-adventure concept I’ve been kicking around for a long time and I’m excited that it’s finally taking off.

KH: It’s a really cool one.

What are you currently geeking out over?

AS: Like many people, I really enjoyed Stranger Things. I also just saw some of the behind the scenes photos on the new adaptation of Stephen King’s IT. It may be time to read the book again. I’m also excitedly waiting for Star Trek: Discovery.

Hadrian’s Wall #1 Arrives in Comic Stores & Digital on September 14, 2016

FOC Monday, August 22nd. Pre-order via Diamond Code JUL160693

If it’s the Snow White tale you’re looking for, discover the story that came before in The Huntsman: Winter’s War, coming to Digital HD on August 2, 2016 and 4K Ultra HD, Blu-ray, DVD and On Demand on August 23, 2016, from Universal Pictures Home Entertainment. The Huntsman: Winter’s War on Blu-ray and DVD includes an all-new extended edition of the epic action-adventure, plus exclusive bonus features that reveal the movie’s behind-the-scenes secrets.

The Huntsman: Winter’s War stars Charlize Theron (Mad Max: Fury Road, Monster) as the evil Queen Ravenna, who betrays her good sister Freya (Emily Blunt: Sicario, Edge of Tomorrow) with an unforgivable act, freezing Freya’s heart to love and unleashing in her an icy power she never knew she possessed. Retreating to a kingdom far to the north, Freya raises an army of Huntsmen as her protectors, with the only rule that no two of them should ever fall in love. As a war for domination escalates between the two queens, the hero standing between good and evil is Freya’s most elite Huntsman, Eric (Chris Hemsworth: Thor, Star Trek Into Darkness). Alongside fellow warrior Sara (Jessica Chastain: The Martian,The Help) — the only woman who has ever captured his heart — Eric must help Freya vanquish her sister or Ravenna’s wickedness will rule for eternity.

And we’re giving away a copy!

To enter, please send an email with the subject header “HUNTSMAN” to geekcontest @ gmail dot com and answer the following:

The Huntsman: Winter’s War director Cedric Nicolas-Troyan is attached to direct this remake of a this classic film that focuses on an immortal Scottish swordsman?

Please include your name and address (U.S. Residents only. You must be 18 years old).

Only one entry per person and a winner will be chosen at random.

Contest ends at 11:59 PM EST on September 4th, 2016.

Produced by Mark Burnett, Sean Daniel,
Duncan Henderson, Joni Levin
Screenplay by Keith Clarke, John Ridley
Based on Ben-Hur: A Tale of the Christ
by Lew Wallace
Directed by Timur Bekmambetov
Starring Jack Huston, Toby Kebbell,
Rodrigo Santoro, Nazanin Boniadi,
Ayelet Zurer, Morgan Freeman

Ben-Hur is the most recent cinematic remake of the story of Judah Ben-Hur; a man accused of a crime, who is betrayed by his adopted brother, the Roman soldier Messala.  Everything is taken from Judah, his family is imprisoned, and he is sold into slavery. Fueled by hate, Judah works his way home to seek retribution.

His road to revenge leads him to an unexpected place, forgiveness.

If you were looking for Fast and the Furious meets Gladiator, you will be sorely disappointed.

Ben-Hur is not actually an action movie. It is a drama salt and peppered with some action sequences.

It is difficult a to write about the new Ben-Hur movie and not compare it to one of the five other pre-existing adaptations of Lew Wallace’s novel. Which begs the question, “Why remake this story, again?”  The only answer I have is to give a new generation access to a story in a way that they can connect to it. With each telling you build a bridge from one generation to the next, making the message accessible to all.

The message of Ben-Hur is always the same; revenge will consume your life, love and forgiveness will save it.  It is a timeless message. Unfortunately, this version of the film will not be timeless. It will look just as dated in 20 years as the 1959 version of the film looks now.

Director Timur Bekmambetov’s Ben-Hur is a mess of poor script writing, melodramatic acting, and overbearing special effects that border on first person, video game cinematics. You know there is a problem when the Charlton Heston version of the film looks subtle is comparison.

The dialog was so predictable, that several times I heard the person sitting next to me whisper the next line of the script before the actor had a chance to deliver it.  Jack Hudson’s Judah seemed lost for the three quarter’s of the film, not gaining a backbone until the chariot race.  Judah seems to survive more by luck than an inner strength and fury that allows him to claw his way back to home and status.  The female cast are wasted. Nazanin Boniadi, Sofia Black-D’Elia, and Ayelet Zurer each are talented actresses, and used as little more than set dressing. Their own pains or plights are never given much thought except in the context of their loss is Judah’s loss.

Having Morgan Freeman as the character of Ilderim, the man who gives Ben-Hur a chance at chariot races, should have helped to save the film, but Freeman just looks bored most of the time.  His bookend narration only served to highlight the spoon-fed storytelling that is the hallmark of this film.

The Ben-Hur chariot race is one of the most famous action scenes in cinematic history.  Both the race of the silent film and of Heston’s 1959 film where groundbreaking for their times.  So, how does a director reinvent the race to make it feel new and exciting? Apparently, he uses jumpy camera work and digital technology.  However, better technology doesn’t necessarily bring better storytelling.  The shaky-cam, close shots make it hard to follow the action and choppy. The digital technology allows for accident to happen with the horses, which could not be filmed in real life.  These accidents are intense, but they are the equivalent of a jump scare in a horror movie; effective, but cheap and lose their impact with repeated use.

The one redeeming piece is the different take on Messala.  Toby Kebbel plays Judah’s nemesis with a sympathetic leaning.  Messela is portrayed as a man looking to be on equal footing with the wealthy Judah, taking the only road open to a man of his circumstances, a military career.  Instead of the traditional back stabbing, ambitious roman soldier, Messela is more of a man who is between a rock and a hard place, making the wrong choice because he can see no other choice.

Lastly, there is the story of Jesus. Judah’s story is traditional intertwine with the capture and crucifixion of Jesus Christ.  Through Judah, you see how the teachings of Jesus can save a man from a life of destruction.  These bits are shoehorned in the most obvious ways, making it feel like Christian conversion propaganda tacked on to a daytime drama.

Ben-Hur had all the ingredients to join the pantheon of great sword and sandal movies.  Instead, this charioteer lost control of his team and crashed into a blooded mess.

To celebrate the grand season opening, we’re giving away ten opening weekend passes (each includes admission for 4) that can be used Labor Day weekend (September 3rd-5th)!

To enter, please send an email with the subject header “KING RICHARD’S LABOR” to geekcontest @ gmail dot com and answer the following:

How many seasons has King Richard’s Faire been running?

Please include your name and mailing address (New England Residents only. You must be 18 years old.  Travel and Lodging not included).

Only one entry per person and a winner will be chosen at random.

Contest ends at 11:59 PM EST on August 22nd, 2016.

For more details, visit kingrichardsfaire.net

Produced by Travis Knight, Arianne Sutner
Screenplay by Marc Haimes, Chris Butler
Story by Shannon Tindle, Marc Haimes
Directed by Travis Knight
Starring Charlize Theron, Art Parkinson,
Ralph Fiennes, Rooney Mara,
George Takei, Matthew McConaughey

So far this summer’s movie offerings have been, in my humble opinion, atrocious to say the least. I think I have to go back to late June’s release of Nicolas Winding Refn’s Neon Demon to find something that I thoroughly enjoyed.

And so, with that in mind, thank God for Kubo and the Two Strings.

When I first began seeing ads for Kubo and the Two Strings a year or so ago, I was intrigued and hopeful, mainly because it was produced by Laika, which is responsible for some brilliant cinematic animation, my favorite so far being Coraline, written by Neil Gaiman and directed by Henry Selick.

With this in my mind, I went into Kubo and the Two Strings with very high expectations., and not only did it meet them, it soared above and beyond them to provide me with a wealth of visual eye candy to go along with a heart wrenchingly gorgeous story about destiny, family, and the power of unconditional love.

As is Laika’s reputation, stunning traditional stop motion animation is back in the spotlight again, and it is glorious. It is mixed seamlessly with more modern 3D computer animation to bring Kubo’s world alive. There are moments where I forgot that the movie is all hand animated with actual 3D models and maquettes. Sure, they are now assisted by some more modern computer motion controlled armatures and gimbals, but this is still all physical models shot on real sets. The movie overall is beautiful, but definitely be sure stay for the really neat after credit sequence.

The plot of the film is about the son of a great samurai, Kubo (Game of Thrones’ Art Parkinson), and his mother, who now reside on a remote island after some personal tragedies. The mother is sick and her son takes care of her. He provides for her by going down into the local village and making money by telling tales of wonder about the battles between samurai and evil spirits. Kubo is gifted with certain magic from his mother with which he can make paper and light objects fly and animate with the music he produces from the samisen, a three stringed Japanese lute played with a very large pick.

All is going well until Kubo forgets about the one caveat his mother gave him, that he must be back after dark, because Kubo’s evil twin aunts (Rooney Mara) and grandfather (Ralph Finnes) are looking for him and want to return him to their magical realm in the heavens. Kubo must find two magical pieces of armor and a special sword to defeat them. Along the way in his quest he befriends a guardian Monkey (Charlize Theron) and a cursed Samurai (Matthew McConaughey) who has been transformed into a beetle.

To say any more would be to ruin the surprises, the beautiful reveals, and the well written script, and I am definitely NOT going to do that. I have already said too much.

What I will say is that the voice actors are wonderfully cast. I am sure someone out there is already complaining that the main vocal cast is all white in a Japanese-inspired movie. It didn’t bother me. As an Asian and as a pretty vocal caller-out of whitewashing in Hollywood I think that the actor choices are fine in this fantasy film. Yes, it is Asian inspired, but there is a huge difference between actors providing the voices for characters and “yellow facing”. Let this one go folks. It neither harms nor effects the film negatively in anyway.

Laika Studios CEO and lead animator Travis Knight knocked this one out into the atmosphere. This was his first time helming a feature, and he crushed it. It helps that he had a near perfect script by Marc Haimes and Chris Buttler (ParaNorman) from a story by Butler and Shannon Tindle (Foster’s Home for Imaginary Friends). The pedigree for this production team is impeccable, and it shines in every way imaginable.

In this time of uninspired remakes, sequels, poorly written “blockbusters,” and giant-budgeted action-spectaculars that are anything but, Kubo and the Two Strings is not only refreshing, it is recharging. It gives me hope. It makes me believe in my fellow man. Tonight was the second time I have seen this screener. I had to see it again because I didn’t get enough beautiful ugly sobbing the first time. That right there should be reason enough for anyone to want to go.

Is it perfect? No, but it isn’t hindered by its flaws. What the filmmakers have done is to take a relatively generic story and give it some TLC and imagination and created a wonderful film. I plan on seeing it at least two more times in the theater. This kind of genuinely loving filmmaking only comes around once in a while, and I want to cherish every moment I can with it.

The King of the Jungle returns when “The Legend of Tarzan” arrives onto Ultra HD Blu-ray, Blu-ray 3D Combo Pack, Blu-ray Combo Pack, DVD and Digital HD. From Warner Bros. Pictures and Village Roadshow Pictures comes the action adventure “The Legend of Tarzan,” starring Alexander Skarsgård (“Diary of a Teenage Girl,” HBO’s “True Blood”) as the legendary character created by Edgar Rice Burroughs. 

The ensemble cast also stars Oscar nominee Samuel L. Jackson (“Pulp Fiction,” the “Captain America” films), Margot Robbie (“The Wolf of Wall Street,” “Whiskey Tango Foxtrot”), Oscar nominee Djimon Hounsou (“Blood Diamond,” “Gladiator”), with Oscar winner Jim Broadbent (“Iris”), and two-time Oscar winner Christoph Waltz (“Inglourious Basterds,” “Django Unchained”).

It has been years since the man once known as Tarzan (Skarsgård) left the jungles of Africa behind for a gentrified life as John Clayton, Lord Greystoke, with his beloved wife, Jane (Robbie) at his side. Now, he has been invited back to the Congo to serve as a trade emissary of Parliament, unaware that he is a pawn in a deadly convergence of greed and revenge, masterminded by the Belgian, Leon Rom (Waltz). But those behind the murderous plot have no idea what they are about to unleash.

David Yates (the final four “Harry Potter” films, upcoming “Fantastic Beasts and Where to Find Them”) directed “The Legend of Tarzan” from a screenplay by Adam Cozad and Craig Brewer, which is based on the Tarzan stories created by Burroughs. Legendary producer Jerry Weintraub produced the film, together with David Barron, Alan Riche and Tony Ludwig. Susan Ekins, Nikolas Korda, Keith Goldberg, David Yates, Mike Richardson and Bruce Berman served as executive producers.

“The Legend of Tarzan” will be available on Ultra HD Blu-ray for $44.95, Blu-ray 3D Combo Pack for $44.95, Blu-ray Combo Pack for $35.99 and DVD for $28.98. The Blu-ray 3D Combo Pack features the theatrical version of the film in 3D hi-definition, hi-definition and standard definition; the Blu-ray Combo Pack features the theatrical version of the film in hi-definition on Blu-ray; and the DVD features the theatrical version in standard definition. All versions include a digital version of the movie in Digital HD with UltraViolet. Fans can also own “Point Break” via purchase from digital retailers.Fans can also own “The Legend of Tarzan” via purchase from digital retailers beginning on September 20.

The Blu-ray disc of “The Legend of Tarzan” will feature a Dolby Atmos soundtrack remixed specifically for the home theater environment to place and move audio anywhere in the room, including overhead. To experience Dolby Atmos at home, a Dolby Atmos enabled AV receiver and additional speakers or a Dolby Atmos enabled sound bar are required. Dolby Atmos soundtracks are fully backward compatible with traditional audio configurations and legacy home entertainment equipment that aren’t Dolby Atmos compatible.

BLU-RAY AND DVD ELEMENTS

“The Legend of Tarzan” 3D Blu-ray and Blu-ray Combo Pack contains the following special features:

• TARZAN REBORN
• BATTLES AND BARE KNUCKLED BRAWLS
• TARZAN AND JANE’S UNFAILING LOVE
• CREATING THE VIRTUAL JUNGLE
• GABON TO THE BIG SCREEN
• STOP IVORY PSA

“The Legend of Tarzan” Standard Definition DVD contains the following special features:

• TARZAN REBORN
• BATTLES AND BARE KNUCKLED BRAWLS
• TARZAN AND JANE’S UNFAILING LOVE
• CREATING THE VIRTUAL JUNGLE
• GABON TO THE BIG SCREEN
• STOP IVORY PSA

DIGITAL DISTRIBUTION ELEMENTS

On September 20, “The Legend of Tarzan” will be available to own for streaming and download to watch anywhere in high definition and standard definition on favorite devices from select digital retailers including Amazon, CinemaNow, Flixster, iTunes, PlayStation, Vudu, Xbox and others. On October 11, “The Legend of Tarzan” will be available to rent digitally on Video On Demand services from cable and satellite providers, and on select gaming consoles.

ABOUT DIGITAL HD WITH ULTRAVIOLET

*Digital HD with UltraViolet allows fans to watch a digital version of their movie or TV show anywhere, on their favorite devices. Digital HD with UltraViolet is included with the purchase of specially marked Blu-ray discs. Digital HD with UltraViolet allows consumers to instantly stream and download movies and TV shows to TVs, computers, tablets and smartphones through UltraViolet retail services like CinemaNow, Flixster, Vudu and more. For more information on compatible devices go to wb.com/ultravioletdevices. Consult an UltraViolet Retailer for details and requirements and for a list of HD-compatible devices.

For more details visit Facebook.com/LegendofTarzan
#LegendOfTarzan

Jeffrey Brown, The New York Times bestselling author of Star Wars: Jedi Academy is back with a new series, Lucy & Andy Neanderthal!

Lucy and Andy are prehistoric siblings dealing with issues all kids face—bossy babysitters, not always liking their dinner (usually mammoth meat!), doing chores, and not being old enough for family outings—especially the epic mammoth hunts. Cave life can be pretty unfair sometimes, but one thing is for certain—there is never a dull moment. Especially with the arrival of a new group called humans.

Both funny and informative, the book is perfect for readers of all ages, evolution not required!

Jeffrey took some time to discuss the book, it’s research process and what he has coming up.

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FOG!: Your newest book, Lucy & Andy Neanderthal is both a funny, slice-of-life comic that also includes a surprising amount of scientific information and facts.  What was the genesis of the series?

Jeffrey Brown: I’ve always been a fan of pre-history, having grown up loving dinosaurs and cavemen, but the media for kids dealing with cavemen especially has always been extremely fantastical. Taking my son Oscar to The Field Museum in Chicago and watching BBC shows like Walking with Dinosaurs and Walking with Caveman made me think it should be possible to have a fun caveman story for kids that was still grounded in the research. I originally thought up the idea as a cartoon back in 2010, but shelved the idea and when I was figuring out something I’d like to work on after Jedi Academy, I realized Lucy & Andy would be perfect for a book series.

What kind of research did you do in writing the book?

I read every book I could find, every article, watched every documentary and TV special, and started reading about every new announcement and new research paper. I read books from out of date children’s books to the latest collections of graduate studies scientific essays (not that I could understand all of the technical data in those!). I wanted to really understand the research as much as I could, so I could fit it in the story as seamlessly as possible. There’s new research every day it seems, so I’ve also got a Google alert set up so I can at least try to stay current. There’s been a few times where I’ve had to adjust the books slightly in order to incorporate new information.

I first became aware of your work in the indie comics scene and it seems like you had a shift, first with Incredible Change-Bots and then with your Star Wars Darth Vader and Jedi Academy series where your work became not only a little more sentimental and nostalgic, but also geared toward a younger reader.  Did anything in particular initiate that change in the direction of your work?

It would make sense to think that having kids led me in the younger direction, but it was more organic than that – the Vader books were actually intended for adults at first, but kids happened to love them as much if not more. I wrote Jedi Academy in a tone that was close to how I would write an autobiographical adult comic about my middle school years (with a lot of the situations based on my own actual experiences).

And Lucy & Andy is full of research that adults should appreciate and get a lot out of. I have more adult projects planned and in the works, but the other factor has just been timing and opportunity. It’s not so much that I’m interested in writing for particular ages as being able to write things I’d like to that happen to be for younger readers.

Lucy & Andy Neanderthal is the first book in the series.  Is there a finite number of volumes planned or will we see Lucy & Andy in other periods of history?

It’s planned for three volumes, which should satiate my curiosity and exhaust the basic information I wanted to cover. I think Lucy & Andy’s story can continue, but maybe in another format, because the way I’ve planned out the books gives a natural end to the series, too. In the back of my mind I’ve already been developing the characters for my next series, so at the very least Lucy and Andy will get to take a break.

Who or what have been the biggest influences on your work?

I don’t know that I have a biggest influence – I feel like everything I see, read, watch, and listen to has some kind of influence, whether it’s the music of Andrew Bird, shows on Cartoon Network, books I read when I was young like Small In The Saddle by Mark Alan Stamaty. Then there’s also the influence of people themselves – my parents and brothers, my wife and own sons now, or even other artists whose work I’ve loved but who also live life in a way that inspires me. I try to have as many influences as possible, and hopefully enough of them that people can’t tell how derivative my work can be!

What about the comics medium still inspires/challenges you and why do you use that as a particular venue for telling stories?

I think comics are able to push the boundaries of combining text and image in a way that also pushes the definition of comics – whether it’s the work of Chris Ware, or hybrid zine mini comics, there’s space to create stories in different ways. With Jedi Academy I was able to use lots of different formats for pages beyond just panels, and Lucy & Andy also incorporates the factual text in a different way than the comics telling the story.

What else do you have coming up?

I always have a billion projects in the works at various stages, but right now I’m mainly focused on book two of Lucy & Andy, and also my first picture book (if you don’t count the Darth Vader books as picture books).

What are you currently geeking out over?

I’ve been enjoying the Tom Scioli/John Barber Transformers vs GI Joe comic book series, re-watching the latest episodes of Game of Thrones, and am looking forward to Rogue One coming out so I’ve been checking out the latest trailers and teaser footage of that.

Lucy & Andy Neanderthal arrives in stores August 30th

For more details visit jeffreybrowncomics.blogspot.com

The first thought that ran through my mind once the headset had been safely attached was “I really need to work on my neck muscles” all those scarf-wearing years of my life were for naught. Clearly I will need to start working on my deltoids and sternocleidomastoid if I’m ever going to keep up with technology. Fortunately for my friends office space and also my own safety, I also managed to stay upright at all times.

Take that, gravity!

Fear of falling over and slight weightiness of the HTC Vive’s headset aside, as soon as I was immersed I had all but forgotten about that unusual top heavy feeling and the potential social embarrassment I might cause myself.

I really liked feel of the controllers and definitely appreciated their comfort, given I played solidly for several hours.

The controls are easy to use and each one features a trackpad, side buttons and a trigger. Each game utilised the controllers in different ways but they remained incredibly intuitive.

I started by playing an underwater experience game developed by WEVR called theBlu.

In the first scenario I was spawned into an ocean, on a ledge, looking down into the murky abyss below surrounded by shoaling fish. Being the typical destructive human that I am, my first reaction was to swat at the fish. To my surprise, they reacted and swam away.

So I began to look all around me and during a 180 degree turn, I was greeted by a large towering growth of coral.

It was pretty incredible but I was more intimidated than I expected to be. I’m not particularly great with heights and often find myself experiencing vertigo when I look up at tall buildings or down from a height. The realisation that I was below land yet still quite high up unnerved me but I was soon distracted by hundreds of pink jellyfish floating toward me. After I had sated my need to swat wildly at some of them, I tried out another of theBlu experiences.

This time I was spawned on a shipwrecked boat at the bottom of the sea, it was quite dark but looking up I could see the light reflecting from the surface, as bits of debris drifted past my face I looked to my right and watched a turtle idly swimming by. In the headphones I suddenly heard something in the distance to my left. I turned and coming directly at me was a blue whale. The sheer scale of it was startling though I wasn’t scared by its size like thought I might be, rather I was in awe of it. I have seen life sized replicas of blue whales at the Natural History Museum but up seeing one up close, so life-like and swimming was incredible…until it got too close.

I wasn’t paying attention to the whales eye which had, unbeknownst to me, been looking directly at me. I turned to look ahead and was confronted by a huge eye glaring at me, a metre from my face. I stared back trying to hold its gaze but my flight instinct kicked in so I immediately turned away and tried to focus my attention on its tail. I think my actual words to my husband and our friend who were watching on the screen were “Oh…O…kay…I’m just gonna look over here at its tail until it swims away”.

Mildly freaked out but still reeling from how cool my encounter had been, I tried the third experience, which was in the pitch black, murky waters of the sea bed inside a whale carcass. I’m not exaggerating when I say pitch black, you can’t see a thing and you have to shine a torch to see anything. I’m not especially afraid of the dark but I’ve played enough survival horrors and if they’ve taught me anything it’s that pointing a torch into the darkness is risky business.

Immediately, I felt vulnerable and as I pointed my torch, I saw one of those weird, deep sea, translucent type fish. My marine biology knowledge is basically non-existent but we’ve all seen the nature documentaries, right?

Those alien-looking, glowing life forms that dwell at the bottom of the ocean that we barely know anything about and will one day rise up and destroy us all? It was at this point that I had to be reminded by the guys that I could close my eyes if I needed to. Oh yeah…I can totally close my eyes. Weird how only 30 minutes of virtual reality can cause you to forget something so natural.

The next game I played was Waltz Of The Wizard, this was extremely fun.

I spawned into a stone room with armour and weaponry on the walls and shelves full of old dusty books and potions. If you’ve ever played an Elder Scrolls game or watched any of the Harry Potter films and imagined you could recreate the potions and spells, you’ll know just how excited I was.

In front of me was a cauldron and numerous ingredients I could mix together. I felt like a great wizard alchemist, I experimented with some of the spell ingredients and created a transmutation spell, a fireball spell and various others. The fireball one was definitely my favourite, you could create a fireballs in your hand and throw them, which I did, multiple times. I then wondered if I could combine a fireball in each hand into a bigger one and let out my inner ‘Hadouken!’. I didn’t know if it would work but this game is definitely about experimentation so I tried and OH MY GOD IT WORKED! I felt pretty powerful, I was owning wizardry!

There were an assortment of snow globes on the table so I picked one up and shook it, it then played a tune which prompted me to play the same tune on a xylophone in the room. Once I got it right, a tear in the “reality” appeared and I opened it only to be transported away from my magical lair and onto a rickety, wooden bridge over a canyon…yeah…you remember earlier how I mentioned I don’t do well with heights?

The guys who are watching on the screen, both screamed in unison (it would appear we are all scared of heights). Still, I tried to console myself that this wasn’t real, that I was in a game and I’d recently learnt that I can close my eyes if I want to, so everything was fiiiiiine.

Careful to not look down, I turned 360 degrees but there was no portal back to the alchemy lab, remembering game mechanics, I wondered if I needed to do something first for it to appear, so I did the unthinkable, I looked down at the bridge I was standing on. There were gaps between the wooden rungs but I was concentrating intensely on looking at the grain on the wood so I wouldn’t see below. Upon one of the rungs was a stone and a coin. I slowly bent down (soooo slow…) and I picked up the coin. I then proceeded to drop it into the cavernous expanse below expecting to hear a clink at the bottom, there wasn’t.

Of course there wasn’t.

As I turned back around to my starting position, I saw the portal appear but it was at a distance where I’d have to take a step forward and simulate stepping off the bridge to get to…I was about to pluck up the courage to do so but my feet wouldn’t let me, instead I lent as far forward as I could on my toes with my arms stretched out so the controllers barely touched it. It was just enough, as I was then transported back.

I felt like I’d tricked the game and found a way around what it wanted me to do, which again made me feel like a damn good wizard. Waltz Of The Wizard is definitely a game I’d like to explore some more, I barely scratched the surface. It’s incredible how real it felt and how my body reacted as though it were real, despite looking like a game.

As I am a huge fan of Portal and of Valve games in general, the next thing I tried was The Lab.

This is Valve’s fun, exploration of Aperture Science Laboratories and features lots of mini games. While in the lab, you can take part in science experiments, explore the solar system, play with weapons, drones and even try to repair the Atlas and P-body robots from Portal 2. It has all of the inherent Portal charm and humour that you find in the games too, like finding mouldy cake in a drawer. I also had a run in with GLADoS too and her size was unexpected!

That’s the one thing about VR that has surprised me the most, it’s the sheer scale of everything, you can only move in a small space and have to use the controllers to point and transport you somewhere else in the space but there is just so much of it. The huge Aperture Science warehouse made me feel tiny (I’m 5’3” as it is!).

One of the things you could do in The Lab was explore the solar system close up, it’s a strange sensation seeing nothing but stars above or below you. I am a huge fan of space exploration and watching the stars so for me it was insanely cool. I walked around and looked at each planet, picking them up in my hand. Part of me started wondered if I’d freaked out humanity as I picked up Earth, I felt like a mischievous God. Then I remembered I wasn’t a God because I began doing that destructive human thing again, I threw planets into the sun, some of which bounced off and out of the solar system forever…my bad, I may have messed up the gravity of our universe.

After walking through the solar system and throwing Mercury into the sun to never be seen again, I left The Lab and tried out another game called Space Pirate Trainer and while I’m usually pretty decent at shooters, I was not good at this game. It’s a bit like an arcade shooter with each wave of enemies multiplying as the levels progress. The enemies in question were small flying robots and they shot at you continually, you had to dodge them while shooting back using one of two guns, a very cool looking laser gun and a hand gun, both of which were satisfying and a joy to shoot, the controllers did a great job at simulating the vibration and feeling.

If you got shot by one of the robots, you had a chance to dodge too because it had a Max Payne-esque, Matrix-style bullet time feature (albeit with a sci-fi futuristic twist). I think given more time, I could get better but I kept forgetting that technically, due to the headset the robots were actually shooting at my head so I had my aiming all wrong and found it hard to make the right adjustments. I’m not blaming the equipment or anything but…you know. It’s definitely a cool game though and one thats had lots of positive reviews.

The last thing I tried out was Google Tilt Brush, an art program which enables the player or artist to utilise a huge blank canvas in the form of a white expanse of space. You can move around the space by aiming your controller so anything you create, you can view from afar or alternatively, because the art you create is all 3D, you can walk around inside your artwork which is insanely cool.

I spent so long in this game and I could have easily spent a whole day in it. There are lots of different effects and brushes to choose from, you can even paint with electricity and if you play music while creating, the work moves with the beat. I usually struggle with a blank canvas, I can never think of what to draw or where to start my first brush stroke. Yet this was less intimidating, I didn’t draw anything in particular, instead I spent my time experimenting with all the different effects and colouring in the space in front of me and this is the result of one area of my ‘creation’:

Once I was eventually pried away from Google Tilt Brush by the promise of food, I took off the headset and it took a moment to adjust my eyes, luckily the room was well lit and I didn’t feel dizzy or nauseous. I don’t know why I expected to feel like that, but I’m glad that wasn’t the case. The headset had left marks around my eyes and on my forehead but they soon disappeared, I felt as though I had sunburnt my face and my head felt really light. Overall though, I was still buzzing from nearly 3 hours of feeling like I was in the matrix.

I really don’t have any prior experience to compare the HTC Vive to, it truly is one of those things that you have to experience for yourself, which may sound like an awful, aspirational, life-enhancing platitude but I assure you, it really isn’t. I dislike using the word ‘immersive’ as so many games writers and journalists throw it around heavy handedly when describing games that really aren’t. Yet, it is immersive and I’m using that word legitimately because the very nature of VR technology is exactly that.

I have also tried out the Oculus Rift and though I remember thinking how novel it was at the time, I didn’t really see the full scope or potential the technology had. Admittedly this was many, many years ago at Eurogamer so I wasn’t using their most recent VR headset, plus I only played Surgeon Simulator, a notoriously hard to play, unintuitive game which hardly demonstrated the full capability of the hardware.

My experience with the HTC Vive was such a step up from that and it makes me excited about the future, especially educationally speaking. I can see virtual reality being a great tool for training and learning. It might even be useful for people suffering from mental health afflictions, as a sufferer of anxiety myself, I certainly found Google Tilt Brush cathartic and could have spent many more hours in there.

In terms of gaming, however? I’m yet to see it as more than a novelty or a fad, a bit like motion controls. It’s still far too expensive for average gamers too and there are not enough games being developed for the technology…yet.

Maybe in a few years time I’ll be writing exclusively about VR gaming? Until then, I implore you to try it out if you can. Even if it turns out to be a novelty, it’s a damn good one!

Welcome back to Graphic Breakdown!

Let’s look at some comic books outside of the mainstream shall we?

If You Steal  

Written and Illustrated by Jason
Published by Fantagraphics Books

Jason is a Norwegian artist who produces a book every year or so. They are always worth it and you pore through them only too quickly. This book came along recently and my god it’s brilliant.

Jason give us a bunch of short stories in this book. They are all different in tone but all feature the same kinds of characters, a mixture of animals and characters from a Jim Jarmusch film. On the surface they seem like simple tales. Straightforward. But Jason did something amazing: He toyed and experimented with the comic book form. He breaks rules. And it’s genius.

I’ve never read anything that actively pushed my brain to think in a new way. But that’s exactly what happens here. Jason has taken the form and pushes it like people haven’t tried in years.

This is stunning work. Beyond anything out there. Jason has done something impressive here. It is a rather expensive book. But the presentation and the work inside make it worth every cent. A masterpiece.

RATING: A+

Seduction of the Innocent TPB  

Written by Ande Parks and Illustrated by Esteve Polls
Published by Dynamite Entertainment

So the title grabbed me on this one.

It’s the same one Fredric Wertham had on his classic book stating that comic books are bad. Well, Fredric Wertham can go F%&k himself because hey, they’re everywhere now.

And so we have this book. But what’s it about?

FBI Agent Thomas Jennings has just arrived in San Francisco, fresh-faced and ready to tackle crime in the big city… but he’s not nearly prepared for what he’s about to encounter.

The city’s crime lords are being systematically murdered, and those responsible are the stuff of his nightmares.

In a desperate race to end the spree killings and rescue two targeted and helpless children, Jennings will be forced to question every belief he holds dear… and struggle to hold onto his humanity.

I was actually grabbed by the story. Parks writes a great tale that kept me on my toes. It’s fun and seedy and I enjoyed the almost sleaziness of it. There were a few boring moments but for the most part, I was engaged. I love Polls on the art. I loved his Lone Ranger/Zorro art. I love him here.

Pick this up if you are looking for something unique in the comic book field. It’s a good time for sure. And it’s better than a lot of the things you are spending your money on.

RATING: B+

Devolution TPB 

Written by Rick Remender and Illustrated by Jonathan Wayshak
Published by Dynamite Entertainment

I always found Remender to be a decent writer that always fell a bit short for me. I always wish his stories were stronger. They are fun and smart but they always end in strange ways.

Except for Fear Agent. I loved that.

So Devolution!

The story goes like this: Every living creature on Earth has been devolved – the evolutionary clock turned back, reverting all life to odd mutations and prehistoric incarnations. The cities of man are little more than bloody territories ruthlessly dominated by tribal Neanderthals ruling from the backs of mammoths, packs of saber-toothed tigers, and giant man-eating insects.

Raja, one of the few remaining “Still Sapien” humans, heads to San Francisco to find the antidote for the world-changing DVO-8 viral agent. But to cross the wasteland, she’ll have to convince the last pocket of humanity to join her quest… and survive the Nazi hillbillies that rule them through fear!

Remender writes a fun tale that again left me a bit detached and cold. The art is pretty good though. All in all not a bad book, but there are other stronger books to buy. Still if you are looking for something because you read everything else, give this a shot. The art isn’t half bad, the story is decent enough. But you may find yourself like me at the end, wondering how this could be better.

RATING: B-

The Realist 

Written and Illustrated by Asaf Hanuka
Published by Archaia Books

Asaf Hanuka is one of the best talents I have encountered yet most people may not have heard of him. He’s popular in Israel but not many have heard of him in America. This is a collection of some of his strips but read right form their own story. And that story is sublime.

Hanuka gives us Slice of life comics of him and his family. It paints a picture of a man who is broke and trying his best to keep the bond with his family which is falling apart. This is a wonderful book, inventive yet sad. It needs to be read to be believed.
Hanuka examines all of us with this book. It’s great and new and fresh. It’s like the great work of Chester Brown or Seth. It’s just as open just as revealing. In short, pick this up to see what the medium is capable of.

RATING: A+

In case you haven’t heard, there’s a new school in session.  Super Hero High is a new line focusing on the DC Super Hero Girls, which reimagines the DC Comics Universe, focusing on the female characters across an entire platform of storytelling.  Playing across multiple entertainment content platforms and product categories to create an immersive world, the DC Super Hero Girls help build character and confidence, and empowers girls to discover their true potential through such familiar icons as Wonder Woman, Supergirl, Batgirl, Harley Quinn, Bumblebee, Poison Ivy, Katana and more.

One of the best use of these characters in this platform is in the novels written by Lisa Yee, who does an amazing job interjection emotion and humor to these beloved characters.

Lisa took some time to discuss her work while working on her latest book.

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FOG!: Supergirl at Super Hero High is the second book in the series after the first volume which focused on Wonder Woman.  What was the genesis of the series?

Lisa Yee:  The series was created to introduce a new generation of young readers to the iconic female DC Superheroes. The Super Hero High novels take place in an alternate universe where everyone is the same age. Plus, even though we may know who becomes a superhero and a super-villain, the students aren’t aware of it yet.

Fans come into the superhero universe from different angles. Some through comics, others from TV and film.

This series of original novels gives readers an opportunity to get to know the superheroes so many of us have known and love though the pages of books.

And the wonderful thing about a novel is that it gives us the luxury of going deep into the psyche of the characters.

For example, Supergirl’s novel examines how she adjusts from being Kara on Krypton, to losing her planet and parents, to learning to cope with her powers as the new girl at Super Hero High.

She’s a bit of a klutz, so the first time she tests her laser eyesight over a field of corn, it rains popcorn!

However, there are also poignant moments like Parent’s Night at the high school, when her heart is broken because she misses her mom and dad.

Were you a fan of the characters prior to working on the series?  Were there any particular stories or takes on the characters that informed how you interpreted them?

Though I read the comics, I was really drawn to the superheroes on television. When I was a kid I loved the Batman television series. I wanted to marry Robin! Then when I saw Wonder Woman, starring Lynda Carter . . . and I wanted to be Wonder Woman.

Before I wrote a word of the books, I examined who the characters were and how I would present them. I realized that I wasn’t writing a series about superheroes who happened to be teenagers, I was writing a series about teenagers who happened to be superheroes. They have the same insecurities and vulnerabilities, and have to deal with all the defines high school — and deal with powers that they haven’t mastered yet.

Wonder Woman is celebrating her 75th anniversary and Supergirl is celebrating her 57th.  Why do you think these characters still resonate with readers after so many years

She looks great for 75, don’t you think? The thing is that Wonder Woman and Supergirl were early feminists, before that was even a word. They were and are strong woman who don’t need a man to rescue them. Over the years they have evolved along with the rest of society, and now they are great role models for young readers. Their time is now.

With the Super Hero High series was your focus on appealing strictly to girl readers or do you think that the series has found an audience with boy readers as well?

Though the series features DC Comic’s females like Wonder Woman, Supergirl, Batgirl and Harley Quinn, the school is co-ed. There’s plenty of The Flash, Green Lantern, Steve Trevor, Captain Cold and other male characters. The humor, action and adventure appeal to both boys and girls, however the focus is on the girls and their lives.

I’ve heard from lots of boys (and adults!) who are reading the books. Just recently, this 10-year old boy posted a review of Supergirl’s book on Montana Public Radio — http://mtpr.org/post/supergirl-super-hero-high-logan-reviews#stream/0

The series focuses on a large ensemble of heroes. Is there one character that you particularly identify with?

You are so right about the large ensemble! There are things about so many of the characters that I identify with . . . Wonder Woman trying fit in, Supergirl afraid to show vulnerability, Harley having fun. But I really identify with Katana. There aren’t a lot of Asian superheroes out there and I’m hoping she will really take off.

What’s next in the series?

Batgirl! I’m just finishing her novel now. You’ll find out how she got to Super Hero High and the challenges she has to face, plus who’s out to get her. The wonderful thing about Batgirl is that any of us can be her. Her superpower is that she’s smart and has figured out ways to battle evil using her brain!

What are you currently geeking out over?

I got the Comic-Con exclusive Katana doll that is so totally awesome. I had seen photos of it before it came out, and she’s even more gorgeous in person. Plus, all of her weapons are there and the display is so well done. I should have gotten two so I’d have one MIB and one to play with. I also just got a Malcolm Reynolds action figure that I’ve been coveting. Oh, Firefly!

Wonder Woman at Super Hero High and Supergirl at Super Hero High are available now
For more information visit dcsuperherogirls.com and lisayee.com