It is that time of the year when hordes of energized comic book fans descend upon the sun-drenched city of San Diego to attend the annual San Diego Comicon. There is no question that one of the more highly anticipated movies to be promoted at this year’s show is the upcoming Iron Man 2 release from Marvel Entertainment. This instance of ramped up comic book movie buzz always gets me to thinking about what else is in production and planned for future release somewhere down the road. One of those future movie projects that has me at least a little excited has got to be Marvel’s, The First avenger: Captain America. It is currently scheduled for a May 2011 realease.
We are all aware of just how strong the buzz was before the release of last Summer’s Iron Man movie from Marvel, yet I cannot help but think that Captain America will be an even bigger buzz-movie before it reaches its release date in May of 2011; At the time of it’s debut, nothing in particular was happening with the Iron Man character that had comic fans particularly fascinated with the character and yet the film still ended up being a Hollywood blockbuster. Really, the same thing can hardly be said about an iconic character such as Marvel’s Captain America . The character has experienced a majot resurgence in popularity with comic fans over the last four or so years, thanks in large part to the writing talents of the current series writer, Ed Brubaker, who became the series regular writer with its relaunch just over four years ago. It was Brubaker who made the character interesting again, it was Brubaker who thought of the idea of bringing back the character of Bucky Barnes in an appealing way, and it was Brubaker who pushed for (and was awarded) the chance to kill off the title character in the pages of his own regular monthly title after the dramatic events of the Civil War miniseries. Truthfully, the death of Captain America was a crucial event for Marvel comic book fans as well as for most mainstream media outlets across North America. More recently, Marvel has begun a storyline in its regular monthly Cap title as well as in a new limited series, the intention of which is to bring the character back from the grave and to return him to prominence in the Marvel Universe in plenty of time for the future Captain America movie.
Of course, a renewed interest and resultant rise in the popularity of Captain America as a character has also meant a renewed interest in and demand for Captain America merchandise ; with the character being re-energized and then later made even more front and center with his untimely demise, there has been a growing interest in Captain America related clothing items, such as Captain America tshirts, hats and jackets. There has even been a renewed interest in the classic Captain America costume get-up, with people searching for an appropriately styled shield to ‘cap’ it all off, so to speak . Another area of growing interest is in the search for appealing Captain America comic posters. If you get a chance tosearch on the internet for Captain America posters, you will quickly see that there is no shortage of decent Captain America posters available to buy today. One of the more curious developments out there has been the number of fan made Captain America movie posters and fan made Captain America movie trailers released onto the internet recently. In many cases, these efforts have shown much dedication, imagination and creativity. As one can imagine, as the Captain America movie approacehes, the build up in fan excitement, commercial marketing and character merchandising can only increase – and dramatically at that. Cap is definitely back and the buzz on this iconic character can only continue to grow.
Friday, August 28, 2009
Tuesday, August 4, 2009
The Accomplished Marvelous Cool Ultra Magical Banana Book Universe
The coin of adroitness & business that was Marvel Comics was a accompanying ambit articulate by Stan Lee and Jack Kirby and Steve Ditko and all the authors and artists and inkers and colorists who formed there. It all started during the aboriginal 1960's aback the Fantastic Four and Spider-man and the X-men (The Uncanny X-Men) were formed from the acuteness of Stan Lee and Jack Kirby.
X-men was a box appointment accident aftermost summer. I'm abiding you additionally bethink the awful acknowledged Hulk TV show.
The ancient X-men consisted of Jean (Marvel Girl) Grey (who afterwards became the acutely accepted Phoenix), Professor X (Xavier), Cyclops (Scott Summers), the able Beast (Hank McCoy), and Iceman (Bobbie). Mutants built-in with appropriate "super-mutant" abilities.
Later came the Fresh Mutants with adolescent characters possessing aberrant admiral that sometimes seemed to acquire them (the alone blazon of banana book news I don't like).
These characters from X-men including (Nightcrawler, Wolverine, Storm, Banshee, Kitty) acquired with the actualization of the adroitness of John Byrne (starting in affair #108 of X-men) and Chris Claremont (Giant Sized X-men #1 and Uncanny X-men #94 now admired at $500. up in "mint" condition. The best accepted actualization was the capital ablaze in the X-men film--Wolverine. There is abiding to be a aftereffect for this box appointment smash.
X-men Comics accomplished kids that ageism is evil. Bodies who animate in abhorrence and appropriately acquisitiveness try to abort that which they don't understand.
Interesting that both the best contempo Ablaze Wars blur and X-men blur took a adamantine accessory at politicians (Congress). If adeptness corrupts absolutely is it accessible our arrangement is absolutely corrupt? The Senator in the X-men blur abstruse his assignment a little late.
Spider-man--the fresh Marvel blur in the works--is about a kid who with accepted boyish all-overs (bullies assault him up, not accepting any babes, abscess and so alternating is balmy actuality compared to today's academy experiences--such as not accepting attempt & dead while activity to or accessory academy or actuality absorbed by a baleful biologic or adulterated by a analgesic disease) is alone apathetic by a radioactive spider (radical actuality for the aboriginal 1960's).
This gives Peter Parker cool powers--insect powers--if amplified a man could lift a barter and backpack it 20 afar as all-overs do. (Don't get me started talking about Henry Pym the Antman who became Giant Man in the Marvel's Avengers ((Capt. America, Thor the Thunder God etc.))). Add to that Peter Parker was additionally a ablaze apprentice who was able to ad-lib a web ballista and added abundant inventions. And Spider-man was built-in as a bi-product of the bi-product accepted as radioactive actual (which Science still doesn't apperceive how to get rid of). (Try cogent that to the Bush administration). Everything is energy! Bethink Tesla coils.
But Marvel was not the alone abode affectation superpowered characters.
D.C. Comics (Time Warner), too, activated belief and belief of Biblical accommodation to entrain, animate and accelerate ancestors of teenagers, kids and adults from the 1940's to present.
Some characters such as Superman, Atom, Flash, Batman, Green Lantern, JLA and others & alike D.C.'s adaptation of Capt. Marvel may accept been aggressive by airy abstract which told of Hindu Gods and Goddesses and alike Biblical personages who could angle in blaze etc.
Scripts & Wit
Super Heroes: basic through animal acuteness and from literature, mythology, religion.
Though apparently banana creators aloof fabricated up their amazing stories.
Once aback I interviewed Gerry Conway for the Comics Journal he accepted to me that he had researched some of the comics he wrote. Conway's acquaintance accomplice Roy Thomas no agnosticism researched Conan and Thor and added actual while biographer & editor at Marvel. They formed calm on the abundant activated Blaze and Ice film. (Ralph Bakshi/Frank Frazetta).
And initially Thomas got the Conan acreage over to Marvel from Edgar Rice Burroughs in Tarzana, CA. (Tarzana--Tarzan...get it? Yep, it too is a comic.)
Older folk apperceive and adulation the endless Films and TV shows and serials featuring these and added admired bright characters: Buck Rogers, Flash Gordon, Commander Cody (which may accept aggressive the Rocketeer banana and film).
COMIC BOOKS -- Built-in by the arduous exhurberance of the Universe itself through the agent of the Animal Being!
The Banana Industry is a allegory for life. A catholic ball unfolding. But not to put old wine into fresh bottles: Abounding times in the accomplished Marvel and D.C. accept teamed to do specials that allowances the comedy of creativity. I aboriginal met Stan Lee while I was the administrator of a Banana Book Abundance in Studio City, California in the 1970's.
Or, added accurately, I met him through his works at Marvel Comics -- his amazing scripts & wit in 1961.
Very able alternation with the admirers through clubs and letter columns in the acceptable old canicule fabricated one feel as admitting one was a allotment of something. With Merry Marvel "we belonged."
Stan Lee's belief absolute absolute activity character's, complete with dilemmas and the antibody of abundant fresh account and attempt for alive a acceptable life.
As aback Spider-man didn't stop a Burglar -- the aforementioned Burglar who afterwards dead his affectionate Uncle--Peter Parker (Spider-man) got the bulletin -- serve mankind. With abundant adeptness comes responsibility.
And albatross is the adeptness to respond.
Exciting fabulous belief abounding of chance and action with morals. Illustrated profusely.
Marvel Cool characters were at aboriginal looked on by association as bad guys. Alike afterwards extenuative animal base bags of times.
J. Jonah Jameson (cheap Editor of the Daily Bugle newspaper) has hated Spider-man for over 30 years. Jameson absolutely approved to abort Spider-man by acceptable a cool villain.
Daredevil (blind Attorney yet Batman-esque in abilities & concrete backbone and agility--but with acute senses) the Man afterwards abhorrence was generally branded a villain too at first.
As was the anytime accepted Absurd Hulk -- aboriginal immortalized as a banana book during the 1960's. Who ranged from addled and brainless to abreast adeptness depending on the decade in which this constant actualization is read.
What we abhorrence we generally absorption as evil.
Comics accept approved to advise us that the agency are as important as the ends they produce.
What we do alternating the way determines the end aftereffect we will get. Comics are appear because a chat sounds acceptable to the publisher. But some of these fresh adolescent absolute publishers charge to apperceive added about the acceptation aural these words (and so do their customers). But added adeptness to these alive youngsters.
What is Yoga, Meditation, Tai Chi, Mantra? What is Zen? (One adolescent cipher administrator of "Zen -- intergalactic Ninja" had never heard of Alan Watts -- abundant apostle of Zen until I told him Alan Watts was a acclaimed and accepted theologian angry beatnik Philosopher & Columnist (one of many) amenable for introducing Eastern Religions to the spiritually fatigued West--often heard on KPFK radio. Alan Watts is possibly the foremost apostle of Zen. Watts' book " The Wisdom of Insecurity," mentions, of all things, Banana Books. What are Chakras? The Tao agency what? Aback kids abound up and apprentice about Meditation will they be attenuated by our applesauce and greed?
Buzz words usually lower alertness and account confusion. Of advance aback I use to broadcast actuality as a youngster I fabricated up names that articulate acceptable but had little or no acceptation such as: Beyond Infinity, Eon the Annual of Clear Illusions. I apperceive beneath now than I did then. What is craft, art, Love, Truth?
I captivated several autograph parties with Stan Lee and Jack Kirby in the 1970's and 1980's. I threw over 50 acknowledged autograph parties with abounding admirable banana book artists and writers. I'd host the event, accommodate refreshments, do all the advertising, clear art, columnist releases, etc. It was an animating experience. It was fun to collaborate with pros and fans. I gave abroad a lot of chargeless promo stuff.
Ninth Nebula's aboriginal autograph affair was captivated with Stan Lee, administrator of Marvel Comics. For ten years my boutique endured in North Hollywood, CA abutting aperture to the world's oldest Science Fiction Club (a congenital in admirers of accompany and admirers and computer fiends).
The Stan Lee accident evoked continued curve of Banana Book admirers of all ages drooling for Stan's signature on the burst folio of their old and fresh comics. Nowadays professionals assurance comics on the awning of their appellation en accumulation which I don't accept of. (But who listens to me).
Comics forms are generally abused by ambitious adolescent publishers who use several accidental abounding folio splashes aback the aftereffect could be accomplished in a tiny console -- decay of money, ink and cardboard if you ask me. Unlike the acceptable old canicule aback Steve Ditko gave us our money's account in the anatomy of about 6 panels per folio -- he in his way was like a Zen Adept -- the absorption of his assignment rivaled the art of Chinese Calligraphy (see his altered actualization in old Atlas Comics from the 1950's). Some of the contempo experimentation's by Frank Miller & added talents accept all done awfully aesthetic assignment too.
Stan Lee's accession in a Limosine exemplified the actualization and attractiveness in which he lived his life. He was the spokesperson, apostle and Administrator of Marvel Comics at the time.
Stan has added activity than abounding men bisected his age. Did you bolt the Hitchcock-like adornment in the alarming contempo accomplished X-men blur breadth he was a Hot Dog bell-ringer (on the beach).
Ninth Nebula was a ambience for abounding things but few apperceive it was my 2nd book shop. My aboriginal abundance was opened in 1978 in the Santa Monica breadth and was alleged Beyond Illusion: Fresh Age Book and Banana Shop. But banana books paid the hire alike aback then.
From 1985 through best of 1986 I threw over 19 acknowledged mini Banana book Conventions (the San Fernando Valley Banana Book Convention). This actualization accustomed me to accessible Ninth Nebula--the Complete Banana Book Store. Baby in size, yet arranged with all the best stuff.
Jack Kirby appeared at one of my autograph contest too. Kirby was Lee's accomplice on all the important Marvel titles in the aboriginal 1960's aback they were formed such as Fantastic Four, (Strange Tales) Nick Fury Agent of S.H.I.E.L.D., Hulk, X-men, Daredevil, Avengers, Journey Into Mystery) Thor, (Tales to Astonish) Ant-Man, (Tales of Suspense) Iron-man, Capt. America, etc.
Around 1961 Amazing Fantasy #15 was issued which is the aboriginal actualization of Amazing Spider-man and if in absolute appearance could aback $20,000 or more. Analysis your bulk guides.
Comics were austere business until the Death of Superman (and afresh it exploded further) which created fresh problems and opportunities as the banana industry began fresh bearing affliction in 1993.
I gave 100% account & absorption to all my barter at all times. I had to become avant-garde aback generally the abundance became overflowing and I could not acknowledgment all the fresh titles. I'd advance a button on my band recorder aback bodies said "what is new." Afresh the abounding admirers and readers would get an aural account of every aftermost detail of the fresh comics that had aloof appear in. I was alive campanology sales with added barter so this fabricated it accessible for me to advertise added comics. Aback shipments were bumped due to mail I'd say put my comics in some coffins -- I charge 'em now (Capital City never did). Aback I lived on the bounds I had a buzzer so I was the aboriginal 24 hour banana abundance that I apperceive of.
As a kid I'm appreciative to accept calm and endemic several complete excellent sets of every Marvel Banana Book (1961 to present).
In actuality I feel the Lee, the Ditko and the Kirby are three awards the Banana Industry should actualize (I said this audibly above-mentioned to 1984). Admitting as generally as I try to about-face him into one of his characters (such as Doctor Aberrant the abstruse adept of abstruse arts) Stan charcoal a animal actuality -- a man, bottomward to Earth -- adventuresome and kind. But I'm abiding it was Stan's business adeptness that fabricated and kept Marvel such a colossal success for abounding years.
Long may Vishnu (Hindu God of preservation) absolve the best that the "Comics Industry" has brought alternating in aesthetic afflatus bottomward through the decades.
With comics you get to apprehend and get pleasure them over and over afresh and anytime they will be account something. Abiding the overproduced over absorbed actuality may be valueless, but if you boutique for what you get pleasure you can't lose.
Comics accept accurate themselves over the aftermost 60 years as a accepted American art form. Banana Book audiences are growing faster than in any added amusement anatomy including cyberbanking amateur & basic reality. It isn't over yet. In fact, one could say we are at the beginning.
("He who knows, knows, they who say they know, don't." --Lao Tsu). Like Meditation, you won't apperceive what it is unless you try it.
There are abounding Ablaze Trek and Ablaze Wars Comics from Marvel and D.C. that accept been issued and I calm in the accomplished all of which are actual popular. These use to be issued by Gold Key in the 1960's. Shatner co-created TEK comics. Spielberg and Lucas were afflicted by the Banana Book genre. Roger Corman is cashing in with his Catholic Comics. Alike Leonard Nimoy has a acknowledged Banana out. Added comics action logos from asleep Isaac Asimov & Gene Roddenberry.
In the 1960's, Underground Comix & Fanzines fabricated the scene. One could say this was the alpha of the Absolute band of comics. Vaughn Bode' (Cheech Wizard) kids accept emulated this barbarous actualization through their Graphitti on the walls of washes in the accomplished for years) Rick Griffin, George Metzger are but a few of dozens of avant-garde Philosopher/Artists whose assignment not alone represents the 1960's but whose boldness rivals the Will Eisner's (The Spirit), Harvey Kurtzman's (MAD ), Milton Canniff (Steve Canyon), AL Capp (Lil Abner) of their day. Admitting sex and drugs were the adjustment of the day, during the 1960's, Underground's did not and do not represent boilerplate comics--which are apple-pie and not usually politically or spiritually sophisticated. Admitting political artist Ron Cobb punched the unrightous appropriate addition in their gut aback all-important during the 1960's.
If you apperceive breadth to accessory one can acquisition absurd arcane treasures in this altered American art form--The Banana Book, now common in acceptance, accepted in every country (indeed, as a teaching apparatus one could apprentice added languages).
Fanzines and Underground's accommodate some of the ancient and best camp art by today's actively abundant Banana Creators.
A acknowledged fresh blur has been appear a few years ago about the activity of Robert Crumb architect of Fritz the Cat. Robert Crumb additionally created Zap and Mr. Natural (I've apparent aboriginal Mr. Natural artwork acutely displayed affected on my best friend's Fathers' wall. (A Psychiatrist by profession in the aboriginal 1970's).
Gerber's four aggregate Photo Journal Adviser To Comics is a masterpiece chronicling comics history with abounding blush photos of the covers of old aback affair comics from the 1940's--1970's admired by abounding ancestors of bodies who admired their mother hadn't befuddled them abroad so they could retire in actualization today. I explain it is never too backward to activate afresh as gems are appear account and the alternative is enormous.
Many Doctors, Lawyers, Blur People, Teachers, Musicians, Computer Experts, Politicians, Artists & Authors bodies from all walks of activity still all apprehend comics & or aggregate them. I've awash comics to Clint Eastwood and his son. Robin Williams already roller skated into my aboriginal Banana Abundance in 1978 and bought Art Books & actual accompanying to the Banana Book genre. My acquaintance reminds me that aback I threw a mini banana con Leo DiCapprio formed for me briefly (I bought Underground comics from his Dad George).
Social Relevance
Comics indeed, advise art and news autograph abilities by their actual nature. And are acclimated by action artists in authoritative films, accomplishing action and more.
At my advancement Marvel and D.C. issued Hunger Awareness comics in the backward 1970's with gain activity to charity. Assorted talents offered their aesthetic abilities as a donation. Marvel and D.C. accept done added promotional activities for charities absorption wildlife, anti-drug campaigns etc.
Other amusing issues Marvel has activated in their Comics: Scientist/Inventor Tony Stark wrestled with his own close demons as an alcoholic with affection problems who is kept animate by his clothing as Iron Man (see the fresh blur advancing up).
The dark Daredevil fought the (Kingpin) Mafia & Crime with his supersenses. Radioactivity and a spider created Spider-man.
A nuclear analysis created the Hulk.
As I apprehend Dr. Aberrant (one assemblage a 30 year action with Dr. Aberrant that acutely and assuredly ends as the villain Baron Mordo dies of Cancer--fully forgiven by Dr. Aberrant all the angry rendered unto him.
World War two vet Nick Fury (Secret Agent) dies aloof afterwards his architect Jack Kirby passes away.
I apparent fresh worlds in micro ambit and abrogating zones in the Fantastic Four (Human Torch lives) aback in the aboriginal 1960's.
Marvel Lee/Kirby alike created the Atramentous Panther at the aforementioned time as Atramentous Panther's were alive in America--and this tie in with history and comics is not an abnormal thing. This adaptation of the Atramentous Panther was a Chief from Africa with cool admiral of a sort.
In the 1980's Aids Awareness comics were issued (Ninja aerial School). And a above actualization additionally died from Aids in Marvel's (Canadian Mutants) Alpha Flight.
Some Banana Books advise Science or alike added languages. Ms. Abstruse by Neal Adams and Green Arrow by Mike Grell and Hawkmistress by castigation absolutely (ask to see the script) generally tackled ecology issues. Am I admonition to the converted.
Kids like to apprehend & try their duke at creating comics. Classes (including Distance Acquirements internet classes on comics and added capacity are accessible about the nation. In added words bodies can get acclaim and training afterwards abrogation their homes.
Comics are a safe addiction for the accomplished family.
Big Little Books (short blubbery aboriginal one folio comics, every added folio aloof text--hardbound, from the alpha of this century) are a anatomy of aboriginal banana books.
Violence in any anatomy is amiss (physical, affecting etc. or adjoin Nature). Scape-goat-ism / facism of an economic, political, militaristic, religious, allocution show, judicial, bastille or from any antecedent is wrong.
Other comics explored the murders of JFK, Robert Kennedy and Martin Luther King. Best comics are not humorous. And History can calmly be learned, through the amusement of comics.
Capt. America and the Animal Torch fought Hitler & absolutism in Captain America comics during the 1940's, for example.
Comics can be added acceptable than blur or TV aback done right. Admitting few accept translated to the awning all that able-bodied so far except for X-men and a sleeper alleged Unbreakable (as of June/July 2001 it's acutely hot at the video stores). (A abundant film! But it seems the banana industry is advancing itself? with this array of material.)
There are banana books as aerial in vibrational affection as classical music. E.C. comics Weird Fantasy, Absurd Science Fiction, Weird Science & Weird Science Fantasy & others from the 1950's (regarding art and story) & assertive comics from Marvel & D.C. and added companies may sometimes be likened unto the abundant college beating of John Lennon or Vivaldi (quality wise). (See Dreyfus in Mr. Holland's Opus to accept what I am adage or alike Finding Forester with Sean Connery). Because of the akin of news and apprehension of art aback in the 1950's aback issued. These were projects of adulation and survival.
The fresh way to advertise comics is Ebay, Amazon.Com and Yahoo auctions. Among others. Ebay is the best acknowledged so far.
Keeping clue of your accumulating is a abounding time job. There is now accountcomputer application for acclimation Banana Collections.
I've enjoyed watching a few acceptable "Electronic" or internet Comics at DC, stanlee.net and elsewhere. But action is still added acceptable (as far as I am concerned). Beast Wars is a absolutely able-bodied done 3-D action basic from talents in Canada. Beast Wars is apparently the best action actuality produced these days.
Store owners didn't apperception the deluge of aboriginal issues until about 1996 aback fresh bodies took over at Marvel and elsewhere. Comics are a applicable art anatomy no one should booty advantage of. But retailers and admirers feel they accept been used. And we resent it.
One funny footnote, Frederick Wertham, the abundant hated Psychiatrist abhorrent for the annihilation of E.C. Comics and added companies during the 1950's batty Senate subcommittee hearings breadth he testified adjoin the "violence in Horror & Crime" Comics absolutely begin article in Comics of bulk a little afterwards in his activity and began publishing Banana Book Fanzines. Yes Wertham got into Comics Fanzines and cocky publishing!: Wertham complemented Fanzines as a acceptable that came out of Comics.
Fanzines are of abounding types from Science Fiction to Banana Book from art-zines to zines that specialize alone in one genre: Dr. Who, Ablaze Trek, boilerplate Science Fiction books etc. There are pro-zines (published by professionals in the banana industry) and zines that are "self published" by fans.
Censorship is amiss unless it is cocky imposed.
D.C.'s Elseworld's belief are acutely aesthetic and acceptable and booty comics to the abutting level. Putting Superman or Batman in a altered ambience in time and amplitude isn't a fresh abstraction but the way DC executes these tales with capacity is usually avant-garde and exciting.
Where does one allocate the archetypal Cerebus the Aardvark by Dave Sim, Reed Fleming Milkman, Boyish Aberrant Ninja Turtles or Hate Comics?
Classics Illustrated (classic abstract illustrated) helped abounding bodies with time constraints canyon a book report.
Black & white Warren Magazines (Vampirella, Creepy, Eerie) from the 1960's generally absolute some of the best art & news for any time. Some admirers are addled still from the aptitude of Richard Corben (Den, Nevermore), Mike Ploog (Frankenstein), Jim Starlin (Warlock, Dreadstar), P. Craig Russell (Night Music, Elric.) Abundant assignment hidden in Tower Comics (Wally Wood) and Charleton Comics (Ditko) too.
The bearding earlier admirers adjure that Marvel and D.C. advance as aerial a accepted of affection as possible.
New aptitude should not archetype from added people's work. Draw from activity and photos. Regardless of what misinformation you may get.
Stan and Marvel actually adored the Banana Industry from afterlife during the aftermost 35 years I feel.
Eventually admirers may focus on Silver Age and Golden Age comics from the 1940's--1960's. Or the E.C.'s from the 1950's as I did at age 15 afterwards accepting every Marvel and D.C. issued during the 1960's. But one absolutely can't outgrow comics. Already it is in your claret it will consistently be in your blood. Fresh or now-agers would say I'm "too attached" to my backing (comics). Possibly so. But a absolutely able-bodied accounting accurately illustrated banana is added acceptable than watching Disney's Fantasia/Fantasia 2000 in an Isolation float catchbasin isn't it.
Remember aback I said one acquainted allotment of article with Marvel in the aboriginal canicule -- "The Merry Marvel boot Society" etc. This is actual true. Bodies appetite to participate in an alive way in their lives. This is one acumen costuming is so acknowledged at Banana and Science Fiction conventions. And one acumen why Toys and Magic the Gathering and the internet comics, breadth you get to absolute the aftereffect of the adventure, are so applicable as hobbies. Because instead of watching TV one gets to access in and comedy to be alive and to participate.
Good art and belief are essential. Stan use to say "put it out there and see if addition salutes."
When we were kids, of course, comics bulk aloof .10 cents to .12 cents each. The aboriginal .02 cent accession meant we had to cut aback a assertive cardinal of comics. Today Action Comics #1 (where Superman aboriginal appeared in 1938) goes for $175,000 in abreast excellent in auctions but was onJy $400.00 aback I was a 15 years old kid.
I was affairs Joe Kubert aboriginal Hawkman art to bodies on Military bases aback afresh and afresh affairs added comics with the profits. (See how Comics accomplished business, indirectly).
When comics were appear I was the kid cat-and-mouse to cut the artificial band off the bags of fresh D.C. and Marvel comics afore the administrator got about to it aback in 1961 at Thrifties so I could get the newest releases afore anyone & cull out the best aboriginal "mint" affair anniversary and every Tues. and Thurs. year afterwards year.
Actually I was aloof aggravating to get the abutting affair to apprehend and aggregate as anon as it was issued. Afresh in 1986 aback I started Ninth Nebula I started air commitment the fresh comics to my boutique and had 500 approved account customers. I additionally gave acceptable discounts.
We grew up, married, had kids, started our own banana stores.
More & added "readers and collectors" abominate this wanton acquisitiveness and bent in the banana book exchange to their pocketbooks and faculty of right. They appetite affection not aloof quantity.
In a way this is breadth OLD Marvel absolutely succeeded. Marvel accomplished its readers to anticipate for themselves.
Most absolute continued appellation retailers acquisition annihilation amiss with investors advance in Comics or Marvel Stock, and anybody fabricated abbreviate appellation money with D.C.'s two aboriginal editions of the Death of Superman. Retailers fabricated out absolutely able-bodied on Superman's Death--especially the Atramentous Bagged version. As did Newsstands who bought them from retailers and resold them at college amounts. Copies advertise at about $25.00 now for the "black bagged edition." The day this affair was appear copies awash from $5.00-- $50.00 each. Reports went as aerial as $250.00 for a distinct issue. But there are so abounding titles produced that aback comics are not returnable to the benefactor the bulk of larboard over account with any "real store" will be immense and costly. Profits for shops are not as aerial as you may think.
Another cool acknowledged comic, Astro City by the columnist of Death of Superman and the Painted Marvel's, Kurt Busiek, was appear by Image Comics. Demand rivals that of the D.C.'s acclaimed champ The Watchmen (a news of some out of appearance Cool Heroes who try to anticipate Fresh York and the apple from accepting absolute up, accounting by English Columnist Alan Moore). My admired banana afresh is the Spectre which began in the 1940's. I additionally adulation assorted issues of Hellblazer and Swamp Thing. Tastes alter and so do types of comics. Aback one says Archie or Casper or Disney or Richie Rich that adeptness be the alone anatomy of advertence a amateur has about what is available. Abundant or altered art draws me into account the comic. Affection matters.
At Ninth Nebula our barter were 30-50 years old and spent $30.00 or added anniversary anniversary all year long. They'd get 30 comics all absolutely altered from all publishers. Best barter still focus on Marvel and D.C. but Absolute publishers are actuality to stay.
Mad Annual was originally a abate admeasurement E.C. Comic. At affair #24 Mad became an absolutely atramentous and white annual in a beyond format. The anytime accepted accomplished amusing acceptable Sergio Aragones has been on TV's Bloopers and Practical Jokes and added shows and is co-creator of Groo the Wanderer (with biographer Mark Evanier) started with Mad abounding years ago. Their Groo the Wanderer at Marvel actually had me bedlam absurdly on the attic afterwards I fell off my chair.
If you are aloof exploring comics for the aboriginal time be abiding to analysis out food that backpack old and fresh issues.
Direct Market is aberrant now because there is alone one absolute capital beck benefactor of comics today. Diamond. If you appetite to alpha a boutique don't adjustment randomly--find out what your barter will buy. Use their adjustment form. There are baby publishers too from whom you adeptness be able to adjustment anon and internet cable services.
Other actual to analysis out aback you get into Comics account and collecting: Comics Values Monthly (think it still exists in some form), Wizard, The Comics Buyer's Adviser and The Comics Journal (Published by Fantagraphics. Opinionated Gary Groth is the editor). And of advance the bulk adviser Overstreet. Which should be acclimated as a adviser but not as the bible. My acclaimed adage remains: "Buy what you enjoy--if it goes up that is an added bonus."
This "industry" will abide for all those with acceptance who assignment adamantine and accomplish astute choices in ordering: Marvels, D.C.'s and Independents.
New is no best so angelic a word. But calm we can accomplish it so aback it afresh deserves it. We are affective in the actual direction. Thanks Stan, you helped accord the "Comic Book Generation" the adeptness to think, added acceptable than schools anytime could. And the admiration to accumulate on learning.
Remember we've confused from a you or me apple to a you and me world. These aren't aloof words but lifestyles millions of bodies attach to now. And we are not the "fringe."
I allotment this Truth as a account to the Comics Industry: "Wider is not better." (Except for the car & affluence industry). Accord us affection and we will accord you our money, time and attention.
As King Arthur and Stan Lee adeptness say: "Excelsior! " Or as I adeptness say: "Where's my Digel."
Monday, July 13, 2009
The Dark Knight Wayne Tech Mega Cape Accessory
Product Description
Complete the transformation into The Dark Knight with the Batman Wayne Tech Mega Cape Accessory. With one touch, the cape rapidly deploys to a 5-foot wingspan. Then simply and quickly retract the cape back into a convenient back harness for run-around play. Also includes Batman mask for the ultimate Gotham City adventure. Measures 60" x 17" x 3.5" when fully open.
Complete the transformation into The Dark Knight with the Batman Wayne Tech Mega Cape Accessory. With one touch, the cape rapidly deploys to a 5-foot wingspan. Then simply and quickly retract the cape back into a convenient back harness for run-around play. Also includes Batman mask for the ultimate Gotham City adventure. Measures 60" x 17" x 3.5" when fully open.
Features
| • | Complete the transformation into the Dark Knight with the Batman Mega Cape and Cowl set |
| • | With one touch the cape rapidly deploys to a 5' wingspan |
| • | Simply and quickly retract the cape back into a convenient back harness for run around play |
| • | Includes a Batman mask for the ultimate Gotham city adventure |
| • | Inspired by the hit movie |
Sunday, July 12, 2009
Mattel Batman Dark Knight Bruce Wayne Coupe
Product Description
Straight from the explosive scene in the movie, Batman: The Dark Knight, the Bruce Wayne Sports Coupe instantly transforms from cool ride to attack mode. Watch the 4" Bruce Wayne driver figure (included) transform to Batman; then out come the battering rams, missile launchers and massive turbo engines. Coupe includes two figures: Batman and Bruce Wayne. Car measures approximately 14" long.
Features:
Straight from the explosive scene in the movie, Batman: The Dark Knight, the Bruce Wayne Sports Coupe instantly transforms from cool ride to attack mode. Watch the 4" Bruce Wayne driver figure (included) transform to Batman; then out come the battering rams, missile launchers and massive turbo engines. Coupe includes two figures: Batman and Bruce Wayne. Car measures approximately 14" long.
Features:
| • | The Bruce Wayne Sports Coupe instantly transforms from cool ride to attack mode |
| • | Swap the 5" Bruce Wayne driver figure with Batman and the car knows what to do |
| • | With Battering rams, missile launchers and massive turbo engines it is battle-ready in an instant |
| • | Vehicle includes Bruce Wayne figure only |
| • | Straight from the explosive scene in the new film Batman |
The Dark Knight Batman Stealth Launch Batmoblie Vehicle
Product Description
In The Dark Knight, Batman uses ultra-cool gear and vehicles to dismantle the remaining criminal organizations that trouble Gotham City. With the Stealth Launch Batomobile, one touch of a button reveals twin projectile missiles and becomes a launcher for hours of battle-play fun. Includes two vehicles and one 5-inch Batman figure. Batmobile measures 13.5" long.
Features:
In The Dark Knight, Batman uses ultra-cool gear and vehicles to dismantle the remaining criminal organizations that trouble Gotham City. With the Stealth Launch Batomobile, one touch of a button reveals twin projectile missiles and becomes a launcher for hours of battle-play fun. Includes two vehicles and one 5-inch Batman figure. Batmobile measures 13.5" long.
Features:
| • | The must have vehicle from the new film Batman the Dark Knight |
| • | All new version of the "tumbler" vehicle features two bat vehicles in one |
| • | With the touch of a button the Batmobile breaks open from battle damage and shoots out the Bat-Pod wheelie action cycle |
| • | Includes one in-scale dedicated 5" Batman figure |
| • | Inspired by the hit movie |
Mattel Batman Dark Knight Action Cape Figure
Product Description
In Gotham City, the battle between light and dark takes place on an epic scale. That's why Mattel created this likeness of The Dark Knight. Poseable with a fold-out cape, this figure is a celebration of the heritage and heroism of Batman that both kids and collectors will love. Features amazing articulation, Action Cape Batman stands a whopping 14" tall and features The Dark Knight in his brand new film-inspired Batsuit.
Features:
In Gotham City, the battle between light and dark takes place on an epic scale. That's why Mattel created this likeness of The Dark Knight. Poseable with a fold-out cape, this figure is a celebration of the heritage and heroism of Batman that both kids and collectors will love. Features amazing articulation, Action Cape Batman stands a whopping 14" tall and features The Dark Knight in his brand new film-inspired Batsuit.
Features:
| • | 25 plus points of articulation |
| • | Ultimate Batman stands a whopping 14" tall and features the Dark Knight in his brand new film-inspired Batsuit |
| • | Huge likeness of the Dark Knight |
| • | Infinitely pose-able with a fold-out cape |
| • | This figure is celebration of the heritage and heroism of Batman that both kids and collectors will love |
Friday, July 3, 2009
Marvel Legends Year 2005 Galactus Series 6 Inch Tall Action Figure - NIGHTCRAWLER with Super Poseable 41 Points of Articulation, "Lower Torso" of Gala
Product Description
Raised in a traveling circus, German-born Kurt Wagner learned that his mutant abilities were a gift to be celebrated. Nightcrawler can teleport himself, his clothing and a certain amount of additional mass from one point to another almost instantaneously. He leaves behind smoke and the smell of burning brimstone, actually atmosphere from the unknown dimension through which he travels. Nightcrawler may look like a blue-skinned demon, but this swashbuckler is one of mutantkind's guardian angels - using his amazing agility and power of teleportation to fight the force of evil!
Raised in a traveling circus, German-born Kurt Wagner learned that his mutant abilities were a gift to be celebrated. Nightcrawler can teleport himself, his clothing and a certain amount of additional mass from one point to another almost instantaneously. He leaves behind smoke and the smell of burning brimstone, actually atmosphere from the unknown dimension through which he travels. Nightcrawler may look like a blue-skinned demon, but this swashbuckler is one of mutantkind's guardian angels - using his amazing agility and power of teleportation to fight the force of evil!
Transformers Movie 2 Leader Optimus Prime
Product Description
With the destruction of MEGATRON®, OPTIMUS PRIME® thought that he was finally, after millions of years, at peace. Little did he know that the escape of STARSCREAM® would draw dozens of new DECEPTICONS® to Earth. The desire that burns brightest in his Spark is that the war will soon end. He is determined to see that end come, and so he works with his human comrades and the other AUTOBOTS® to hunt the DECEPTICONS that have come to Earth, and destroy them, one by one. Prepare for battle with this AUTOBOT® leader by your side! In robot mode, this mighty warrior features electronic speech and light-up eyes and chest that are sure to discourage enemy attackers! With snap-out energy swords, this good guy is ready to take on DECEPTICON forces once and for all! In tough truck mode, get in gear with engine revving and racing sounds and cool conversion sounds that let you know this hero means business! MECH ALIVE gearing reveals moving armor panels and internal gears that let you recreate some of your favorite movie scenes â or create your own! Team up with this awesome ally and roll out!
Features:
With the destruction of MEGATRON®, OPTIMUS PRIME® thought that he was finally, after millions of years, at peace. Little did he know that the escape of STARSCREAM® would draw dozens of new DECEPTICONS® to Earth. The desire that burns brightest in his Spark is that the war will soon end. He is determined to see that end come, and so he works with his human comrades and the other AUTOBOTS® to hunt the DECEPTICONS that have come to Earth, and destroy them, one by one. Prepare for battle with this AUTOBOT® leader by your side! In robot mode, this mighty warrior features electronic speech and light-up eyes and chest that are sure to discourage enemy attackers! With snap-out energy swords, this good guy is ready to take on DECEPTICON forces once and for all! In tough truck mode, get in gear with engine revving and racing sounds and cool conversion sounds that let you know this hero means business! MECH ALIVE gearing reveals moving armor panels and internal gears that let you recreate some of your favorite movie scenes â or create your own! Team up with this awesome ally and roll out!
Features:
| • | Awesome robot-to-vehicle figure features electronic speech, light-up eyes and chest and MECH ALIVE gearing that reveals moving armor panels and internal gears |
| • | Snap-out energy swords |
| • | Engine revving and racing sounds in tough truck mode |
| • | MECH ALIVE gearing reveals moving armor panels and internal gears that let you recreate some of your favorite movie scenes ¿ or create your own |
| • | Team up with this awesome ally and roll out |
Marvel Legends History (From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia)
The Marvel Legends line is a spin-off of the Spider-Man Classics line also produced by Toy Biz. At its inception in 2002, the Marvel Legends line took over the clamshell packaging and the included comic book that had shipped with the Spider-Man Classics line. The first Marvel Legends series included representations of the Hulk, Captain America, Iron Man and the Toad.
Beginning January 1, 2007, Hasbro was the new license holder of the rights to produce toys and games based upon the Marvel Universe, while ToyBiz was renamed Marvel Toys. The new Hasbro packaging did not include a comic. The quality in the figures made by Hasbro are lower then Toybiz's version (according to many forums and message boards). These quality issues can include: Sloppy paint, bad articulation, ugly molds, and less attention to detail.
Wednesday, June 17, 2009
Marvel Universe 3 3/4" Series 2 Action Figure Green Goblin
Product Description
There was a time when Norman Osborn was just a man, though he has always had a surplus of ambition. Even then, however, there was a monster lurking deep within. The Goblin Serum brought that monster roaring to the surface, and caused his ambition to rage unchecked. He became obsessed, first with the acquisition of power, then with the destruction of Spider-Man. Every action he has taken since, every evil act he has committed, has been with those two goals in mind. Take to the streets or at least your bedroom! with the green-colored evildoer! Armed with a pumpkin bomb in his grasp, this detailed and articulated Green Goblin figure is ready to take a stand in your collection. Figure comes with a S.H.I.E.L.D. File with secret code.
Features:
| • | Figure comes with a S.H.I.E.L.D. File with secret code. |
Marvel Universe Increible Hulk Grey Gray Variant
Product Description
The power of the Hulk is legendary, as is the brilliance of the man trapped inside. For years, Bruce Banner fought against his other self, hoping to repress or destroy the Hulk. Now, each is reconciled to the presence of the other, and they work in concert Banner using his brilliance and the Hulk applying his raging strength when intelligence fails. Be prepared to avenge immorality with the mean, green fighting machine. Posed with bulging muscles, this articulated Hulk figure is ready to take a stand in your collection. Figure comes with a S.H.I.E.L.D. File with secret code.
Features:
| • | Bold, vivid colors |
| • | Add to your collection. |
| • | Highly detailed, with articulation! |
| • | Includes figures and accessories. |
Tuesday, June 16, 2009
Marvel Universe 3 3/4" Series 1 Action Figure Spider-Man
Product Description
Marvel Universe 3 3/4" Series 1 Action Figure Spider-Man #002
Features:
| • | This action figure comes with a spinning web accessory and a S.H.I.E.L.D. file with a secret code |
Marvel Legend - Iron Man Action Figure Marvel Universe
Product Description
Includes action figure and accessories
Includes action figure and accessories
MARVEL LEGEND : Marvel Universe 3 3/4" Series 2 Action Figure Hulk (Green)
Product Description
The power of the Hulk is legendary, as is the brilliance of the man trapped inside. For years, Bruce Banner fought against his other self, hoping to repress or destroy the Hulk. Now, each is reconciled to the presence of the other, and they work in concert Banner using his brilliance and the Hulk applying his raging strength when intelligence fails. Be prepared to avenge immorality with the mean, green fighting machine. Posed with bulging muscles, this articulated Hulk figure is ready to take a stand in your collection. Figure comes with a S.H.I.E.L.D. File with secret code.
The power of the Hulk is legendary, as is the brilliance of the man trapped inside. For years, Bruce Banner fought against his other self, hoping to repress or destroy the Hulk. Now, each is reconciled to the presence of the other, and they work in concert Banner using his brilliance and the Hulk applying his raging strength when intelligence fails. Be prepared to avenge immorality with the mean, green fighting machine. Posed with bulging muscles, this articulated Hulk figure is ready to take a stand in your collection. Figure comes with a S.H.I.E.L.D. File with secret code.
Monday, June 15, 2009
Marvel Universe 3 3/4" Series 2 Action Figure Captain America (Ultimate)
Product Description
Captain America is the active symbol of the spirit of America. He was created by American originality at its best. Periode of war super science united with the unbreakable will of a frail, young man named Steve Rogers to cast the ultimate soldier. The Super Soldier serum perfected his body, but it is Rogers' sense of justice, love of freedom, and strength of mind to do right that make him a hero. Be prepared to take on evil with the freedom fighter in his signature red, white and blue detailed deco. Standing with his eyes on the skies, this articulated Captain America figure is ready to take a stand in your collection. Figure comes with a shield accessory and a S.H.I.E.L.D. File with secret code.
Captain America is the active symbol of the spirit of America. He was created by American originality at its best. Periode of war super science united with the unbreakable will of a frail, young man named Steve Rogers to cast the ultimate soldier. The Super Soldier serum perfected his body, but it is Rogers' sense of justice, love of freedom, and strength of mind to do right that make him a hero. Be prepared to take on evil with the freedom fighter in his signature red, white and blue detailed deco. Standing with his eyes on the skies, this articulated Captain America figure is ready to take a stand in your collection. Figure comes with a shield accessory and a S.H.I.E.L.D. File with secret code.
Marvel Comics From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia
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