WHAT YOU & WE THOUGHT OF AVENGERS!!!!

Here are thoughts of The Avengers live action movie that has premiere this past weekend. We got stuff from fans and CBC staff so let's get down to it.

Jeremy Jones

Ever had one of those kitchen let downs? Y'know, when what's cooking smells so yummy but when you finally tuck in, it's mediocre. Not bad exactly, just not as good as it's scent set-up.
Marvel Studio's Avengers movie, released May 4th, is the exact opposite of a kitchen let down; the film was everything a fanboy could have hoped for, a veritable piece de resistance of comics-translated-to-the-big-screen movie magic. The promise made by Iron Man I&II, Thor, and Captain America movies over the last few years have herein been fulfilled.
Let's keep it to three reasons why Avengers was so satisfying. Director Joss Whedon also wrote the screenplay; the resulting singularity of creative vision makes a powerful, sturdy framework upon which to lay dynamic, toothsome special effects. The overall writing finesse and depth of characterization is brilliant and engaging.

There was no need for distracting backstory filler, often a failing of comic book movies, as the non-comic reading movie public must be brought up to speed. Avengers avoids the backstory baggage thanks to the four previous solo movies and we get right down to business; the pot is hot at the jump and the aromatic ingredients simply sizzle.

With strong acting in the mix, this trifecta of movie magic is complete. For the most part, the main characters are adroitly portrayed, with verve, and even secondary characters like Maria Hill shine. Just a bit of Samuel L. Jackson showed through Nick Fury, otherwise, only the character was on screen, the actors disappeared as they should, perfectly: you believe.
Avengers gets a well earned 9.5 of 10 stars.

If this movie was a meal, at its end you would've burped embarrassingly loudly then refused dessert.

CBC's Hector Ramirez

Avengers is the talk of the weekend and with great reasoning. Now naturally, I had to see it in imax 3D and I am glad I did. The graphics were great really worked with the 3d well. The story didn't have many holes in it. Of course, they had them quarrel amongst each other which you know fans wanted to see. When everyone starts working together, they really compliment each other well on the battlefield. The comedic element was a nice touch and catch phrases we will all be repeating for months to come. But speaking of catchphrases one very important catchphrase left unsaid: "Avengers Assemble" but due to the overall success, i'll let that slide. I will be listening for it in the sequel.  

Derrick JonesLet me start off with I really like Joss Wheadon’s television work. I was a faithful watcher of Buffy the Vampire Slayer, Angel, dollhouse, and Firefly. I can even see his hand in some of the story line as the movie plays out. Having said all that I was not the biggest fan of The Avengers movie. 

At times I feel the movie is trying to be too much to too many and falling short at every turn. It’s a buddy movie, except when it’s not, then it’s a romantic comedy (or a bromatic comedy) but then it shifts to pure eye candy action. For a movie that is just this side short of two hours and thirty minutes I felt like for the first hour and forty minutes of the movie I was in a sports car that was towed onto the street and pulled along until finally it was cut lose from the truck and allowed to hit speed. 

All the actors played their parts well Robert Downey Jr. still manages to bring an unlikeable arrogant Tony Stark to the screen and Chris Evans, who annoyed the hell out of me in the Fantastic Four films, plays a really believable man out of time Captain America. For me however the runaway star of the movie is Mark Ruffalo as the third and best Bruce Banner. While I am familiar with the comic version of the Black Widow I would not mind seeing her in her own movie, but again I have to give props to Josh Wheadon (yeah Scarlett also ) for the writing of a female character that is not all victim or pure fem fatale bitch. In the end I would give this movie 3 out of 5 stars.

CBC's Darryll "YTC" Carter

Aside from my sister somewhat ruining the end of the movie for me (that's why I don't go out with familly) Joss Whedon pulled it off. And I'm glad he did though. I, myself, didn't walk away with the experience I was expecting the rest of the world seems to think I should have and would have if my sister wasn't present. That being said I feel like the movie was too Stark and Widow heavy. I expected the movie to focus on Downey and Iron Man a bit heavily and while it wasn't outlandish it was noticable to me. Alot of people disagree with me, saying "No way man it was the Hulk" or "naw, it was Thor". I'm speaking more so about screentime not who got the most badass moment. But speaking of badass moments I felt like Black Widow did more in the film than Captain America. And that bothers me. Cap bias aside, he is Captain fing America the leader. He did shine as a leader though once everyone began to cooperate, namely Stark and Thor and surprisingly the Hulk. Though I wager there isn't much for the Hulk to complain about when his orders are "Hulk.... Smash." Priceless.

J1 Studios' Brian Misher

Just saw with some friends this morning. ABSO-FREAKING-LUTELY AWESOME!!! I will be seeing this twice!

Christian Prokop aka Mildra the RPG Monk

Saw Avengers the other day. The monk approves.

Deandra McFadden

  Omg! I love this movie. If you haven't seen this movie, go watch it now.

CBC's Frankie Rodriguez 

   This movie is beyond Epic. Beyond Awesome. This movie is exactly what it needs to be: Well paced, great characterizations and mind-breaking battles. This movie proves all the build up of the Marvel Movies continuity works and works well. And all the characters were very well balanced in this movie. No one over-shines anyone else in the film, in my opinion. 

   There are more than enough memorable moments, the pacing is excellent and the characters are all distinct and fleshed out well. Captain America is a god! And honestly, Mark Ruffalo is the best  Bruce Banner ever to hit a screen, tv or movie. Such a multi-layered portrayal and the movie was just full of Whedon full but not overly full of pop-culture references. Kids will love it. Adults will love it. Just ... amazing work. 

INTERVIEW WITH J1 STUDIOS FOUNDER & ANGEL SAVIOR CREATOR JASON RICHARDSON

Here is the all new interview:

By Frankie Rodriguez 

1. Hey Jason. Thanks for the interview. Let's start out with J1 Studios in general. Last year has been a big year for J1, right? 

Indeed it has! We started Mayhem Madness, our video game tournament/anime expo. We also had our first anime event-turned-mini convention J1 AN-EX. The Announcement of the Mega Ran comic and other titles happened within 2011.

2. So how do you juggle the many hats you have as President of J1 Studios, artist, writer, etc? 

NO SLEEP. None at all!

My passion for craft/business is so strong that it would destroy the average fanboy/otaku because I want to do everything! Only recently did I realize that I need to NOT do every concept that comes into my head.

3. Currently, you can find many of your works up on the J1 Studios website. Particularly Angel Savior, which is nearing it's end. How do you feel about this final battle in Angel Savior?  

Well, I wouldn't TECHNICALLY call it the end. With the 3rd issue of Angel Savior, this is my way to take the action a little higher. Higher as in scale of destruction. In issue #1, they fought on a rooftop, in #2 they ended up destroying a few cars, and in issue #3 buildings and streets will suffer!! Mwuhahahaha! 

4. How do you feel the impact of Angel Savior has been over the course of these #3? How has Jason developed as a character? 

To me the responses seem to be 50/50.  I know some were really blown away while others weren't, but I wanted people to see the "magic" I hid in the comics. Unfortunately, it's hard to show every single person the trick that really would have the "WOW factor". You see, after you read #2 go back and read #1 again, because I hid stuff in there that will make more sense now! Once you do that, read #3 then go back and read #1 and #2 over and you'll see that there are even more things that I hid in the book that open up the story even more.  

5. Shifting gears for a minute, how did you originally start being an artist? And how did J1 Studios begin?

Well, I was an artist from a young age, and I'm talking about making full graphic novels for myself and my friends at 8 years old. Minimum page count was 80. Haha I was crazy! In high school and college, I hung out with a lot of artists and I wanted to have everyone work on various projects under one label, but people didn't like my concept. Years later, I started the idea and the name of J1 Studios with the late Kevin Siter (of Fighter's High fame) and Ben Dudden (of Low Road fame). We planned 3 comics that were all different, being showcased on the site. It wasn' t long until we saw how much work was involved and we couldn't keep the pace (we were trying to update daily). So the group fell apart. I kept the name and created Angel Savior and changed J1 Studios to focus on more than just comics, but entertainment in general.

6. What do you find important as an artist that you display when you draw? 

 Fun. Plain and simple if you are having fun while you draw then for the most part, others will have fun reading it.

7. Who are some of your influences in your art and writing? Any creators you would love to work with? 

Masami Obari (Fatal Fury the motion picture), Bruce Timm (Justice League Unlimited) and the production art team behind most Capcom games.

8. What were the comics that really brought you into the industry? How do you feel now as a creator compared to a fan? 

Spiderman changed my life! That second question is loaded! As a creator and still have the fan in me, but I realize that because I have to focus on my own projects it takes away the time I would be spending on comics that I love and follow. 

 

9. With Angel Savior almost done, any ideas for a release of the final version in print? What projects do you have coming up? 

Most definitely! We will have a collection of all three issues of Angel Savior in one book. Then, the new Super Bounty J1 will be a graphic novel series! Oh, I can't forget Mega Ran: Random Lyricism, which will be a hip hop rap battle tournament with the use of various elemental powers! Issue #2 of Lime Rind is still ongoing as well as rumored title "Gunplay Romantica" (Romeo and Juliet Hong Kong action comic). I want to make the change to graphic novels because I feel more people are willing to give the stories a try if they can get a complete story instead of issues. Sorry, I'm babbling. 

10. Finally, what would you like to say about Angel Savior & J1 Studios in general? What would you tell to any aspiring artist or writer who wants to break into the field of comics? 

It's harder than you think! Why do you think I took the indie route? No matter how good you THINK you are there are hundreds of people who ARE better than you. With all that said, it's the person with all the heart and drive who will most likely succeed. You have to be humble and ambitious while at the same time happy to do what you are doing.

THANK YOU JASON. Catch more of Jason's work here at J1Studios.com as well as listen to him on Black Tribbles, every week alongside the other Tribbles on Thursday Nights on G-Town Radio and Podamatic. 

COVER OF THE WEEK # 4

COVER OF THE WEEK 
 (Week of February 15th)

by Darryll Carter (Yusuke T. Centre)

Cover Artist: Ryan Ottley

It’s time for our favorite milking mammal again. That’s right the CoW, Cover of the Week. This time around the Golden Udder go to Invincible #88. Now, I myself don’t know anything about Invincible. But this cover makes me want to pick one up. I mean there is something to be said for just flat out slugging a guy. It doesn’t get richer than that. That’s pure awesome. Although, the gal in the pink seems a bit shocked. Maybe he’s a fellow hero or friend?

Movement aside, you see some nice blur effects on the swinging fist and especially on the chin of the unfortunate fellow in the foreground. I like the blood in the foreground as well. It gives the impression that I’m so close it might splatter on my face. That’s a nice touch.

There is definitely something symbolic to be said about this cover. You have Invincible in a angelic position high on the page looking down on the other guy with the sun on his back high in the clouds. While he is knocking his opponent down a few notches, down back to earth with us. Really nicely done.

THIS WEEK IN AWESOME # 3

Welcome again Ladies & Gentlemen to THIS WEEK IN AWESOME!!!

For this edition . . . we got our staffers and a little more this week.

CBC's Hector Ramirez 


My awesome moment this week comes from Daredevil #8. Daredevil is tracking down a powerful hologram generator and when he finds it the thieves attempt to use it against him by filling the room with holographic villains stating “you can’t catch what you can’t see” Daredevil merely smiles and the next panel shows the too men in a slump on the floor.

J1 Studios' Brian Misher

My favorite moment is in Rosario+Vampire Season II vol.6 & 7. In vol. 6, Moka Akashia had Tsukune remove the rosario from her neck for a full day, allowing her true vampire self to experience school life first hand. Unfortunately, this causes to seal to weaken and Inner Moka can't be sealed away again.

I like this moment because it thrusts the normally stoic Inner Moka into a situation that has become almost become alien to her. Her friends get to see her in a different light than what they're used to. Usually Inner Moka has a rough exterior and chilling demeanor, and is often times very frightening. As vol. 6 progressed, Inner Moka begins to display "girly" qualities such as particpating in sports, art, and joining cooking class where she receives some harsh criticism and reacts accordingly--feeling depressed. In the end, Inner Moka smiles almost just as bright as her cheery counterpart when Tsukune approves of a pie she made despite its burnt appearance. I really like this part because Inner Moka shows extreme concern for Tsukune when he nearly chokes on the first piece when normally she just pay him no mind.

Vol. 7 furthers upon this as Inner Moka, while on a plane bound for China with her friends, wonders about her feelings toward Tsukune. This may be due to the fact that when Tsukune sees her without her shirt, Moka, rather than kicking him, simply covers his eyes.




CBC'S Darryl "YTC" Carter

My epic moment of the week also comes from the pages of Barry Allen in the Flash #3. The Flash can vibrate his molecules at a certain frequency to become intangible. In other words he can phase through objects a la Shadowcat. Sure. The Flash can hold grasp something living or otherwise, accelerate its molecules to a particular frequency and render it intangible as well? Sure, sure. But a whole passenger plane equipped with people and luggage? Through a BRIDGE...? Impressive Barry... impressive. But wait there's more... All this is only after Barry finds out he can tap into the Speed Force... with his brain...

Derrick Jones of  Brooklyn, NY

As much as I bad mouth Jim Lee nowadays...in his hey day. X-men issue 275. The X-Men most in their School Uniforms Vs. The Imperial Guard. All the looks had been updated and the battle (esp. the two page splash page) was great! Darn...I miss a kinetic Jim Lee.



Gerald Williams of Hampstead, NY


The awesome moment that I always remember is the Universo Project from Legion of Super-Heroes vol 3, #32-35. Universo had taken control of the entire universe but he exiled Saturn Girl, Dream Girl, Brainiac 5 and Chameleon Boy on a planet with other heroes (non-legionnaires) who he considered a danger to him. They escaped and in #35 Saturn Girl took on Universo alone but he had Mon-El and Ultra Boy there as bodyguards. She reached into their minds, broke his hold on them and dropped in 2 seconds. Then made light work of Universo. It is still my favorite LSH story after all these years.






BROUGHT TO YOU BY: 

RAJIO NIHON . . . the internet Toku Station where they play songs from tokusatsu, anime and give you in depth looks into the world of Tokusatsu. RAJIO NIHON

CoW (COVER OF THE WEEK) # 1

Cover of Week

by Darryll "YTC" Carter

Cover by Adam Hughes

(Week of January 25th, 2012)

This weeks cover is  from Batgirl #5. The lure of this cover for me was the contrast between Batgirl and her background. The picture really captures the cold of a blizzard really well. The way the storm fades out the background architecture to near silhouettes, establishes a sense of isolation. It's just Batgirl all alone and this unseen assailant, who seemingly has already gotten a peace of her. The red from the blood and Barbara's hair are the most attractive things in the picture. The white scenery really helps the red pop.

#32 - BATWOMAN: HYDROLOGY (Issues 1-4)

Batwoman Thus Far: Issues #1-4

By Darryll Carter

BATWOMAN #1-#4| J.H. WILLIAMS III co-writer & artist| W. HADEN BLACKMAN co-writer| DAVE STEWART colorist| TODD KLEIN letterer|

What better way to start off the review of a new series, in a new year then with a new reviewer. Hi there comic fans, I’m Darryll “YTC” Carter, here to give you guys my impressions on DC Comic’s ‘New 52’ Batwoman series.

Before we dive into the review, it is only fair to inform you all how I conduct my reviews. There are three categories I address; the story, the art, and the Hype Factor. The story deals with the actual tale and how well it was conveyed. Was the content clear or convoluted? The art covers the visual style of the book. This includes; penciling, inking, coloring and lettering. Last, but not least, is the Hype Factor, or what I like to think of as geek climax. Simply put, anything that especially noteworthy or that evoked a strong response or emotion. Let’s get to it.

The Story

Batwoman is helmed by the amazing team of J.H. Williams III and W. Haden Blackman. The story begins with Kate/Batwoman interrupting a new menace she’s been tracking known as the Weeping Woman (la llorona to the local community). The Weeping Woman is a mysterious water banshee that is wishing away children and drowning others.

As it turns out, Kate is not the only woman tracking the banshee, but Detective Maggie Sawyer of the GCPD (Gotham City Police Department) is also on the case. Williams and Blackman waste no time reminding us/establishing Maggie as Kate’s current love interest and a potential thorn in Batwoman’s side.

While juggling Det. Sawyer and the cape and cowl, Kate has also taken it upon herself to train her younger cousin Bette (Flamebird of the Teen Titans). Her reason for doing so seems deeper than a simple desire to nurture and more along the lines of an emotional outlet.

A heated discussion unfolds after training Bette, between Kate and her father, Colonel Kane (who essentially filled the role of Kate’s Alfred and Oracle). The argument is about Kate’s late sister and works its way into a clever recap of Kate’s back story, the events that happened in Detective Comics #854-863.

Kate’s Detective Comics run was spent tracking down and stopping the Religion of Crime, led by an elusive and theatrical woman named Alice. As it turns out Alice, is potentially Kate’s long lost twin sister, presumed dead, from a terrorist abduction that also claimed the life of Kate’s mother. The battle of good vs. nefarious reached its climax in the skies above Gotham Harbor. Upon defeating the RoC and potentially losing her sister again, Kate discovers that her father may have known her sister was alive all along. The revelation tore a rift in their healthy father/daughter relationship and aroused the attention of the DEO (Department of Extranormal Operations.

DEO Agent Cameron Case is assigned to investigate the Batwoman and an Army cover up of the RoC battle over the skies of Gotham, by Director Bones (who looks like a Dr. Phosphorus who finally burned out). Not long after getting her assignment, Case finds herself examining the crime scene of the latest Weeping Woman murder where she is confronted by Det. Sawyer. Case makes it a point to inform Sawyer that she is at the top of her “Who is Batwoman?” list and makes off leaving a sour taste in the mouths behind her.

Kate determines the potential lair of the Weeping Woman from a not so casual break-in at the GCPD file room. When she arrives at the lair, which resides under a pier, she is consumed by the Weeping Woman and nearly dies. After escaping the near death experience she is then confronted by Agent Case and a swarm of DEO agents. She flees the scene in a pinpoint disarming fashion and rides away on her bike with such precision it would have made Bruce grin.

Running high on her adrenaline Kate gets home and tells Bette that she can’t train her anymore and says a few things she’ll probably come to regret. Bette runs out of the apartment angry and dons her Flamebird costume. Not long after Bette leaves, Sawyer shows up at Kate’s door. She comforts a distressed Kate and the two begin to consummate their romance.

While Kate is having the night of her life, Bette is out prowling the night. She bites off more than she can chew and gets into a gang fight that leaves her gutted and near death. Agent Case finds Bette’s near-lifeless body inert in the snow and takes her to an undisclosed area. Under the malevolent watch of the DEO, Bette is coerced into stating Kate’s name, leaving Agent Case to draw her yet to be revealed conclusion on Batwoman’s identity…

The Art

As always the art of Williams III is exemplary and breathtaking. The illustrations involving the Weeping Woman were among the best I’ve seen from his Batwoman work. The water rushes across the page and separates the panels like a dreamscape. It beckons the eyes to gaze one second longer. Even the way the smoke from Director Bone’s cigar flows through the air adds to the eerie and mysterious tone set by the story.

All of the great art is supplemented by the colorist, Dave Stewart. Stewart does a great job of aiding and adding to Williams III’s pencils and carrying the tone over into color. The contrast theme of Batwoman comics is still present in these issues. Her bright reds and pale white tear through the subtle dark hues of the shrouded darkness that is Gotham at night.

When readers think of art, I think they tend to forget about the letterer. Todd Klein has created some of the creepiest lettering I’ve ever seen for the Weeping Woman. He also does a fairly accurate job of capturing Kate’s climax in words.

The Hype Factor

The Hype Factor this time around is consists primarily of majestic awe. The mere meshing of the art itself left me thinking I had found the end of a rainbow (possible double meaning?). In addition to the art, there were a few moments that overwhelmed me. The first was a comment from Kate when investigating the Weeping Woman’s lair. Unsurprisingly, Kate’s seemingly a Jason movie fan (or has at least seen it). She says, “God this is so Camp Crystal Lake. Just don’t be the dumb chick who goes into the basement alone…” Second, was the beating Bette got out in the cold snow. Lastly, but so totally not least, is Kate’s climatic moment toward the beginning of issue #4. I can’t say much more than that. The review is PG, check it out for yourself, you’ll probably enjoy it.

The Conclusion 

The Batwoman team has impressed me and exceeded the standard once again. The story is solid and shaping up to be a wild ride. The weaving of three different angles, Kate’s, Sawyer’s and Chase’s, is well executed and leaves you yearning for what’s next. If you couldn’t tell already, I really enjoy these books. They are the reason comics are considered art and not just funny books. Batwoman #1-4 gets a Wargreymon. ¶¶¶¶ out of 5. 

5 stars- Omnimon
¶¶¶¶ Wargreymon
3 stars- Metalgreymon
2 stars- Greymon
1 star- Agumon

UNDER THE NET #1 - JOHNNY SATURN

Under the Net with Jake Estrada

The Johnny Saturn review

Hi, folks. My name is Jake Estrada, and this is my first review for this site. I would like to take a moment to thank Frankie Rodriguez for this chance to become a reviewer under his established umbrella.  Here are a few guidelines for my reviews. I will be looking at the art, storyline, set-up, originality, and the consistency of all things related within the context of the comic, and I will go from there to give an in-depth review.

My angle will be web comics and independent comics. I feel that there are plenty of hidden gems out there that need the time of day, and if I can expand this market by sharing the books I read and enjoy, then I will do everything in my power to make it possible.

I will be rating the elements of the book on a scale of one through five. One is poor, two is mediocre, three is fair, four is good, and five is excellent.

The first title up for review is an awesome title called Johnny Saturn. It is drawn by Scott Story and co-written by Benita Story with occasional assists from other creators. Yet, the brunt of the material has been solely created by these two fine creators who have been working on this title since 2004. There is a clear passion for this character, and they do have a following for this title. I must say that I enjoy reading it when I make my visits to the site to see what is going on with the leading character. The storyline has been one wild rollercoaster, and it is a great read. Scott Story has created a massive superhero universe, which is set in Spire City. Most of the fisticuffs and battles take place here as the heroes and villains all conspire to either protect or destroy this fine city. The drama plays out in a soap opera-like nature, but I must admit that Scott Story is not following the general rule book that plenty of people fall prey to. He is trying to create an original universe of his own. He is having fun, and it shows in his work.

The Art and Writing

The artwork on the title is very good. It harkens back to a time when artists drew in this classic style. Of course, I have recently found out and you can tell in his latest offerings that his work has been infused with digital elements, which is totally fine. In his earlier works, you could tell everything was done by pen and pencil, but certain things are now being done digitally, and it works well. Scott Story has found a good way of meshing the two together. I know I most definitely enjoy his artwork and I think he has come up with some great illustrative layouts. He has a great sense of control of the page, and he knows how to pace his artwork nicely. You can see the time and skill he uses for certain pages that have no dialogue. In his recent pages, one of his heroes turned on his friends and had to stage a devastating attack, which had the hero in tears. The raw emotion was powerful and very moving to say the least. Much like the art, the writing is very important to this series and has held the series together very well. The art and writing propelled this series for more than 15 books. I must say that it is a breath of fresh air when I read this series. My hat goes off to Scott Story and Benita Story.

ART: 4 STARS

WRITING: 4 STARS

Originality

The set up of the site is beautiful and very easy to navigate. You can read about the series set up, how it started, and how the series has progressed. You can see that the creators are all about shaking up the status quo, and that is what I am talking about here. This is the stuff comic book fans always talk about. They think that nothing in comics changes, and that things remain the same. Well, that isn’t true about Johnny Saturn. This series has gone through a drastic change throughout the years, and the story evolves and grows more engrossing. If you want to spice it up, this is a book that you should check out and support.

 Some may argue that the superhero genre is dead, and that Johnny Saturn is a Batman rip off, but that couldn’t be further from the truth. To be quite honest, Johnny Saturn is a blend of different types of characters. When I read this series, it feels like a clash of Greek tragedy and modern flavorings of the superhero genre that I wish other comics would attempt to put out there. I am very happy to see that Scott Story is not afraid to mix it up and take the necessary risks to keep his story original.

ORIGINALITY: 5 STARS

Grand total: 4.1 STARS

The Pros

If you are looking for an original and engaging story that will hold your interest, that is different from the big two offerings, and that is willing to take risks, then this is the series for you. The story is original, and the artwork is fresh and engaging. You never know what Scott Story will pull next.

The Cons

I can’t really say there are many cons. I wish that the book would update everyday, but that would be difficult because this book has been published by a two-person team since 2004. Once again, congratulations to you two for producing such a high quality product in a timely manner on a weekly schedule.

My Final Word

Read this book. It’s fresh, it’s original, and it’s fun.

The comic updates on Mondays and Thursdays weekly. You can find it at http://johnnysaturn.com

Enjoy folks!

Jake Estrada

estradajake@yahoo.com

Jake Estrada is a published author who holds degrees in Multimedia Design and Criminal Justice. He is a father to three wonderful children and married to his beautiful wife, Beth. You can find his comics at http://graphicly.com/estrada-mediaand other fine online stores.

NEWS EDITION #9: BARKER RAISES HELL, DC SELLS OUT, NEWMAR IN TIME

Welcome to the 9th Edition of CBC News. Let's Hit the ground running.


BARKER CHANGES HELLRAISER IN ONGOING

    For the last several months, horror fans have had the joy and rapture of reading many of their favorite franchises as new miniseries or even ongoings. BOOM! Studios recognized this right away as they launched the new Hellraiser ongoing, written by Christopher Monfette and Hellraiser creator and prolific writer Clive Barker himself.
   As assured to many readers before the first issue of the new ongoing launched, everything that happens within the new Hellraiser ongoing is IN CONTINUITY by Barker himself. The first 4 issue set up the ongoing as the second arc within the ongoing is about to begin. Here's a solicitation for Hellraiser #5:

BRAND NEW ARC! Great jumping-on point for new readers. One of the greatest horror franchises of all time returns, now under the control of its original creator! Clive Barker has touched HELLRAISER only twice: once to write THE HELLBOUND HEART, and once more to write and direct the original HELLRAISER film. Now witness Barker’s long-awaited return to tell a new chapter in the series’ official continuity—a trajectory that will forever change the Cenobites…and Pinhead! Kirsty Cotton faces her greatest foes…both new and old. And Pinhead is her greatest fear! But what could he have planned for her?


Hellraiser # 5 will hit stores September 14th, 2011, with art by Jesus Hervas and written by Clive Barker & Christopher Monfette for $3.99.


VESCELL TRAILER GIVES IMAGE TEETH

Honestly, it's a trailer you have to see to believe with the brand new series; the first issue out now.

Feast your eyes and check it out now.


DC COMICS RELAUNCH . . . SELLING OUT!

    DC Comics started this journey not long ago. Back in the beginning of June, fans got the announcement from DC that they were going to relaunch their ENTIRE line. Every book was going to start again with # 1 starting in September. Well, it's September. And while many people were skeptical about this 'soft reboot' coined by some . ..  it seems to be working.
    Many of the new books have sold out all over the world. Not just one or two but a good chunk of the new books have been selling out.
  Justice League International # 1, Batgirl # 1, Action Comics # 1, Animal Man # 1, Hawk & Dove # 1, Detective Comics #1 and next weeks Batman & Robin #1 have already sold out! Batgirl, JLI, Hawk & Dove and Action Comics # 1 will receive second printings with a possibility that Animal Man, Detective Comics, and Batman & Robin not far behind them.
   What is even crazier is that Justice League # 1 has sold out . . . TWICE. Yes. You heard me . ..  . TWICE. Justice League# 1s second printing is already sold out and going in for a third. DC Comics' hard work and advertisements seem to be paying off as many new faces are popping in and getting comics. So far, DC's plan to help sell their line and revitalize comic books are work. And Marvel is listening as they have been aggressively started their own campaign to sell their books themselves.
   With 3 more weeks of books coming out (one of those books already selling out), what will happen next? And which books will join them for sell out status. You'll get more on these developments as the relaunch continues.

THIS JUST IN: As of late Monday, September 12th, DC and Diamond distribution released that ALL 27 titles from Justice League #1 to Action Comics # 1 to Animal Man # 1 to all 13 number #1s coming in today (September 14th, 2011) are sold out based on numbers and the other 26 issues will be receiving 2nd printings.
     How is that for historic? 27 sell outs. That is unprecedented. More of this relaunch and the effects it has on the industry as we continue to cover it.

NEWMAR BECOMES BLUEWATER'S PUURFECT HEROINE

    Spinning out of the now to be ongoing Misadventures of Adam West, the legendary Batman for the campy 60s tv series; former Catwoman from the same show, Julie Newmar, will soon have a brand new miniseries to join it. The Secret Lives of Julie Newmar. The new miniseries, debuting in February 2012, will feature the actress going from her back yard one minute and then dropped into a laboratory in a different time the next. She must accept the mission to stop Dr. Vertigo and his assistant Onyx from destroying the space/time continuum or she will never see her time again. Being forced to join the organization known as Hour Glass, she is fitted with a micro chip that lets her travel through time; taking on different missions through time to reflect different points in the actresses life.
   Written by Marc Shapiro, who is working closely with Newmar on the project. Art duties are being handled by Cindy Mehrich. Marc comments on his excitement on the project:

"This series has been have been so much fun to do. And it is an homage to the kinds of stories that first appeared in the mid-60's. 'Secret Lives' is just a straightforward adventure that will entertain all ages." 

The Secret Lives of Julie Newmar hits stores February 2012.



FLASH GORDON RETURNS IN DYNAMITE ENTERTAINMENT . . . FOR A DOLLAR

   The popular character that spawned movies and serials from the near beginning of movies and television returns in comic book format this November by Dynamite Entertainment. The new series, Flash Gordon: Zeitgeist will grace stands, written by Eric Trautmann with art by Daniel Lindo. And the first issue will hit comic shops . . . for a dollar. No. I am not joking. Dynamite Entertainment is giving us a new Flash Gordon series and its first issue is a dollar. $1.00. American.  As for the story:
The year is 1934, a time of two-fisted swashbuckling, of fearsome threats and wild adventure-and of ever-growing threats on the horizon.
Three valiant humans -- Flash Gordon, Dale Arden and Dr. Hans Zarkov -- are plucked from the Earth, traveling to the distant planet Mongo. Their exploits are legendary, battling the machinations and terror schemes of the dreaded emperor Ming, the All-Seeing Ruler of Mongo. But they did not fight alone...

Flash Gordon: Zeitgeist # 1 written by Eric Trautmann with art by Daniel Lindo will hit stores in November for $1.00.  


MUTANTS HAVE CHOSEN SIDES: X-MEN LINE UPS REVEALED AT LAST!

 There have been teasers. They're has been solicitations. There has been a lot of build up for Schism and so far . . . it seems to be delivering. The split between mutantkind, particularly the X-Men, has been coming for a while and Marvel has been teasing us, cause we are fans just like you all, for a while now about the new line ups for the mutants that will stay with Cyclops in Utopia while showing the Mutants that will go along with Wolverine once Schism ends in October.
    It's been revealed with the split, the X titles will split . . . having X-Men and Uncanny X-Men stay with Cyclops while X-Men Legacy and the new Wolverine & the X-Men deal with Logan's mutants. It has been confirmed that most of the New Mutants and Generation Hope will side with Scott Summers; while on the other side with Wolverine is Uncanny X-Force and X-Factor; Honestly, both those titles seem naturally against Cyclops with Wolverine leading X-Force while X-Factor has had a long standing issue with Cyclops, Emma Frost and others since Civil War.
   With shadows here and there of members of both sides slowly being revealed for the past month. FINALLY, we get the scoop on the rosters for both sides.

As you can see, most of Generation Hope stays but Sebastian Shaw seemingly joins them.

Over in New Mutants, the team stands of: X-Man, Dani Moonstar, Cypher, Sunspot, Magma & Warlock.

Finally, the Cyclops's X-Men: Cyclops, Emma Frost, Coloss-naut (coined by a friend), Magik (who graduates up), Magneto, Danger, Storm, Domino, Psylocke, Jubilee & Warpath.

Suprised to see Psylocke, Jubliee and Warpath with Cyclops but you never know. And Scott's 'son' and 'granddaughter' side with him.

 Over in Uncanny X-Force, we see AOA Nightcrawler coming in and am pretty sure it was his tail we saw in the Bachalo cover. Which is kinda awesome . . . having Kurt back without demeaning the original's sacrifice. And it seems Psylocke is doing double duty.

In X-Factor ..  . that is a BIG roster. And I love it. But David has said he is gonna kill at least one member before Havok & Polaris come back to the fold and we will see everyone in #230. So, Havok, Polaris, Wolfsbane, Madrox, Strong Guy, Banshee, M, Layla Miller, Rictor, Shatterstar & Longshot will get together for the first and possibly last time. And bad enough that one of their members could very well be techinically dead . .. read X-Factor to know what I mean.

And finally, Wolverine's team of X-Men looks very strong: Wolverine, Beast, Rogue, Gambit, Iceman, Frenzy, Quetin Quire ( I know, I'm surprised too), Toad ( I think), Rachel Grey, Shadowcat (about time Rachel & Kitty were on the same team again), Lockheed and someone who I do NOT recognize in the background.

Cyclops team seems to be very much power while Wolverine's team seem to have a nice mix. The philosophical divide also divides the Summers family in half . . . cause while Nate Grey and Hope Summers stay with Cyclops, Alex Summers, Lorna Dane and Rachel Grey are going with Logan and Kitty. And I honestly believe that Kitty and Rogue may very well be helping Logan lead his side.

I guess we will find out come October & November, won't we? And that's the low down on X-Men Regenesis.


SUBMISSIONS, WE WANT THEM!!!

   We are looking for people's opinions. We are looking for Your opinions for any and all of the books of the DC Comics Relaunch number #1s, the new Ultimate Spiderman, X-Men Regenesis and recent rise in indy books. We want your feed back. Just give us a paragraph to a page of your own views on any of theses and we will post them in up coming specials here at Comic Book Clash.

Plus, if you are looking to sell comics or want to promote your art and/or writing, feel free to email us and get  posted. Email your submissions to francisco.k.rodriguez@gmail.com and we will give post your submissions on our specials or next news edition.

Thank you for interactiving with us here at CBC and J1 Studios.

CBC Head
Frankie "Seraph" Rodriguez




J1 STUDIOS ARE LOOKING FOR ARTISTS

   We here at J1 Studios are looking for artists to work on several comic book projects. We are looking for artists who have experience with comic book layout formats and can draw (obviously). For more information, give us an email at j1studios1@gmail.com or francisco.k.rodriguez@gmail.com.



And that is all for this week. See You All Next Week! Keep Clashing!!!

CBC DCnU SPECIAL # 1 - What we thought of JUSTICE LEAGUE #1

 With the historic relaunch of DC Comics now underway, we took some time out this week to give you all a look at some of the views on the new Justice League #1 by people throughout the country. Here are some opinions, as well as opinions from members of the CBC crew. So, sit back, relax and read on. Please NOTE, the following statements will contain spoilers.

From CBC’s own Hector Ramirez:

Well, I just picked up my copy of Justice League #1 last weekend I can say I was rather impressed. Decent art, good story, tremendous ending. I love how they started out with the heroes as unknown vigilantes that didn’t even trust each other. The cops were going full force against all costumes it was awesome. One thing I hated was Hal friggin’ Jordan!!! He was such an arrogant prick and what up with him talking in third person. Those last few pages were priceless that red blue and green blur when Clark knocked Hal down a few pegs and the last page revealing his new costume, loved it!!!

D. Jones from NYC

  I read JL #1 Ehhhh I was a little underwhelmed. I cant remember who it was in one of the other post who said that it should have been an 80 page special but yes, it should have been. I know the new thing is to make the story last over 5-6 issues so it fits easily in TPB but if you are really introducing these characters for the first time it felt like you relied to much on my past knowledge of them. . . . I said earlier that for the flagship book it should have been longer. It's got nothing to do with trying to show the differences between characters or anything, it has to do with taking forever to tell a story. And . . .  it does seem that many writers have a very 1950's mindset when it comes to speaking to kids which i never understand cause these little mofo's are WAY more advance than us 

D. Franklin from Baltimore, MD

Yeah, I expected more from a debut issue. There were some neat moments, like GL scoffing at Batman's lack of powers and then Batman proving him wrong. But it def would have benefited from more pages and story!

C. Smith from Michigan

Sure . . . Batman and Hal have always had their clashes in ideology . . .  for this to be the flagship book that's launching a new universe that you desperately need to be accepted, there should have been more. You can't even use the argument that the price point would be too high. It was the second of only 2 books that came out this week for the company. . . The story was so color by numbers it should have been in the activities aisle in Toys R Us. It was entirely cliche and below the standards of the industry today. If they were going for an all-ages feel, then, this would have been just fine. Maybe that was the intended goal. However, kids are a lot more advanced than writers want to credit.  . . If they wanted this story to have teeth and justify the pacing, and also add needed characterization without the need of dialogue, we should have seen the entire arrival of the parademons. Batman in shadow reacting to the event. Green Lantern doing the same and then their crossing paths. You would have established suspense. You could have shown just how Batman is perceived as myth by him working in shadow, barely seen through most of the comic until the end. I'm really beginning to question if Geoff Johns is just burnt out. His writing has been subpar of late.

G. Williams from New York

Justice League is interesting, but I'm a bit guarded about it since it is starting 5 years ago as well as restarting Cyborg without him joining the Titans first. Of what I see of the costumes so far, I have no objection. Batman fits him and his personality. Superman's is okay but I am confused about why they choose to make it armor. I feel that it may simply be for effect. I think that it will take a few months until we get acclimated to the new personalities of these characters. We have been reading them for so long but it is DC's goal to shake things up so that it will open new stories for them.

And Finally, CBC Head - Frankie "Seraph" Rodriguez:

     I have to admit that this was by far one of the better debut issues. I honestly did not find anything wrong with it. It helped show us a little of this new universe and how things started. The interplay between Batman and Hal Jordon was priceless. The fact that they were only 2 of the 7 members to be featured in the book having a lot of screen time did not bother me at all. It actually helped us established who these characters are at this point and time. 

     With super heroes just starting to rise, it set up a lot for us to come with the big bad being mentioned, the beginning of Cyborg's origin and how Batman and Green Lantern meet Superman . . . which leads directly to the next issue.

   I think it was a fast read . . . not too short. It gave readers enough to be intrigued and entertained while giving us some basic outlooks on the characters, personalities and setting up for the formation of the league, Cyborg's origin and the League's first big bad. Lee and Williams gave a tour de force in terms of art. It has never looked better. And to everyone who is whining about the costumes . . . Look at Superman at the last page of JL #1 and tell me he did NOT look awesome . . .and I will call you a liar. 

   A great beginning for Johns and Lee.

And that is all the opinions this week. Next week . . .we will cover all 12 books of the DCnU with our opinions and the opinions of you, the fans all over the country. If you want to give us your opinion on any of the 51 books left to be released, feel free to contact us at francisco.k.rodriguez@gmail.com or follow us on facebook under J1 studios. 

Don't forget this week:

 J1 Studios own Jason Richardson will have his art in Archie Comics' Megaman #5. 

And This Friday, J1 An-Ex 2 will be in full effect with comics, video games, card games, raffles, art and more for the very affordable price of $2. J1 An-Ex 2 will also have its first exclusive release: a brand new mix cd from J1 Sound team. J1 An-Ex 2 will have all your favorite J1 creators there including Jason, Hector and Frankie. So come on down this friday in Philadelphia at the Hawthorne Rec Center on 12th & Carpenter from 5:00pm to 8:30pm.

And we will see you next week.