SDCC Recap: Neil Gaiman Returns to The Sandman!

Out of all the exciting and surprising announcement to come out of 2012 Comic-Con was this major announcement from DC’s Vertigo. Neil Gaiman is returning to The Sandman series! We repeat, Neil Gaiman is returning to The Sandman series. Additionally, he is being paired with artist JH Williams III from Batwoman.

Easily one of my favorite series ever (maybe my all time favorite,) The Sandman is considered to have fundamentally changed the face of storytelling in the comic book industry. First released in 1988 it has sold more the 7 million copies and is one of the few graphic novels to make the New York Times Best Seller list (along with Watchmen and Dark Knight.) The release will be a mini-series in honor of the 25th anniversary of the series.

If you aren’t familiar with The Sandman go and get familiar with it. It will rock your world. For those who are familiar with it, the story will pick up from the very first issue of The Sandman. As you may recall, Dream starts in captivity, is weakened and dressed for battle. This story explains how we find him in such straits.

I missed out on the original series in 1988. Rest be assured I will not miss out on this one. It is slated for release in 2013.

Wonder-Con vs. Comic-Con: Random Thoughts

So I have been to Comic-Con the last 5 years in a row, hanging with my friends at Comic-Con (our Contourage as we call it) is one of the things that convinced me to move to California. The last two years I have been to Wonder-Con as well. Nothing can top Comic-Con, but in some ways, I really enjoy Wonder-Con more. Here is why.

1. First of all, the crowds aren’t out of control. Let’s face it, Comic-Con is just too crowded and you can tire yourself out just by trying to get through the sales floor. Additionally it is absurd having to wait in a line for 5 hours just get a seat in Hall H or Ballroom 20. At Wonder-Con you easily get into any panel you want without spending half the day in line.
2. The atmosphere is a lot more relaxing as well. Comic-Con is four days of constantly being on the go (when you’re not waiting in line.) It’s a  nonstop whirl of people, hype, costumes, panels, celebrities and venders that can leave you feeling a bit overwhelmed by the end.  Wonder-Con you just relax and enjoy. You can take your time on the sales floor, hang out with people and just soak up the nerdiness.
3. There is also a lot more focus on comics, writers and artists. Comic-Con has little to do with comics anymore (which is fine) but at times it feels more like one big advertisement whereas Wonder-Con is really more about developing and promoting the creative side of things. They even have the connect event each night where writers and artist could meet each other.
4. The venders were better as well. Except for the huge displays put on by the big names, Comic-Con kind of feels like a flea market as times. Large, obnoxious shirt venders, cramped booths filled with random action figures and some things that probably shouldn’t exist at all. The venders at Wonder-Con were less junky and more unique, with a wider range of original, unique items. It was also a lot of local venders. Comic-Con could stand to clean up the sales floor a bit. Sadly, these other venders will never get into Comic-Con. The wait list is too long and nobody in their right mind is giving up their spots.

Don’t get me wrong, I absolutely love Comic-Con and wouldn’t miss it for the world. I love the panels, the celebrities, the culture, the people, the costumes and everything else associated with Comic-Con. Jews go to Jerusalem, Muslims go to Mecca, and nerds go to Comic-Con. This is really more of a critique or comparison of the two.  Think of Wonder-Con as a magic time machine that takes you back to what Comic-Con was 15 years ago. Fun times.

Avengers Super Bowl Spot Filled with New Glimpses

If you didn’t catch it during the game, here’s the Avengers Super Bowl spot (extended version). It’s ripe with new details and glimpses to analyze and gush over until May. One of my favorite shots has to be at 42s, the emphasized sound of each hero’s weapon as the camera pans around is a very nice and epic touch. May 4th can’t come soon enough.

Avengers assemble!

You can be a hero!

Some of you may not be aware, but there is a huge famine in the Horn of Africa and they are facing what is being called the worst hunger crisis of the last 60 years. Approximately 13 million people are suffering without food. It doesn’t help that much of the area, like Somalia, doesn’t have a functioning government and local leaders are making distribution difficult. I read a story about one women who had to walk 100 miles to find food. On the way she had to stop and bury her infant son who had died during her travels. Terrible, heart-breaking stuff, but you can help.

DC is launching the We Can Be Hero’s campaign. For every donation you make to raise food for Africa, they will match it 100%, they are also selling super cool gear with the slick We Can Be Hero’s logo, 50% of those proceeds go to help raise food as well. I have had the privilege of visiting Africa (not this part though) it is one of the most beautiful places I have ever seen and I can honestly say the people are the most kind and joyous I have ever met. Here in America, where we have so much, let’s help those who have so little. The world is in need of a few hero’s, what are you waiting for?

a man who unknowingly influenced us all

If you have ever been to, or dreamed of attending Comic-Con, or any geeky convention, then your life has been influenced by Richard Alf, one of the cofounders of Comic-Con San Diego. He passed away today at age 59 of cancer.

The ironically named Alf, helped form the convention in 1970 with a handful of volunteers. He also loaned money to the convention in its early years and did a lot of the hands on work as well. Of course, back in those days the convention was nothing like it is now. Low numbers of visitors and get this, actual comic book related items covered the sales floor and panels.

I remember as a kid in the 1980’s reading my comic books and seeing the convention advertisements and dreaming about how cool it would be to go someday. It only took me a couple of decades to do so. Now I have been 5 times and look forward to every year.

So here is to you Alf, unknown hero of nerds everywhere. We give you are condolences and thanks for making Comic-Con such an amazing event. It’s pretty impressive to go out with what you know has become a tradition for so many. Your legacy will live on.

NYCC Update #1: A Head Start on Swag and Exclusives

by Staff Writer: Aileen Cacayorin (@Aileen)

As NYCC approaches, more and more exhibitors are announcing their panel and booth lineups, as well as the events, exclusives, and freebies that you can look forward to at their booths. Getting swag at these events is half the fun but also a serious art form, so here’s a round up of the latest announcements to give you an edge:

1.  Free Issue of Angel and Faith #1

Where: “Dark Horse Does Vampires Right!” panel(Sat., Oct 15, 11a -12 in Room 1AA15)

Dark Horse will be hosting a panel about vampires in comics (real ones, not the kind in a series that I refuse to acknowledge by name), including the new season of Buffy the Vampire Slayer, as well as Angel and Faith. Appearances include: managing editor, Scott Allie, director of public relations, Jeremy Atkins, and Angel & Faith’s writer Christos Gage and artist Rebekah Isaacs, as well as a few surprise guest surprises. Attendees of the panel get the free issue of Angel and Faith #1.

2. Dark Horse Comic Con Exclusive: Spider Man Syroco

As part of the Marvel Syrocos program that debuted at San Diego Comic-Con International in July, that Dark Horse will be releasing another exclusive Spider-Man statue for New York Comic Con. It is packaged in the same litho-printed tin box that is the hallmark of the Dark Horse Syrocos and will be sold at the normal retail price of $49.99, with a limit of four per customer. Only very limited number of statuettes will be available at the Dark Horse booth starting at 4pm on Thursday, Oct. 13.

3. UNTERZAKHN Underwear

Where: Pantheon Books, booth #1041

"I'd wear these."

Yes, Pantheon Books is actually giving out women’s panties. They’re part of a promotion for  UNTERZAKHN by Leela Corman  (Schocken, going onsale 3/20/12). The panties are sexy, black hip huggers with the word “unterzakhn”  (Yiddish for “beneath the surface,” aka “underwear”) on them. So guys, if you’re looking for a gift for your girlfriend on the cheap, here you go.

 

4. NYCC Exclusive Finn Figure from Cartoon Network

Where: The Cartoon Network Lounge

Cartoon Network is setting up a lounge in the registration of the lobby of the Javits Center. Fans can catch up on Adventure time episodes, play video games, and grab some exclusives, including the NYCC exclusive, limited edition Finn figurine.

That’s it so far, we hope it helps you out while you’re trolling for swag. Check back in here with BabbleOn5 for more updates as the con gets closer and follow them on Twitter, @BabbleOn5 for live updates from NYCC.

@A1L33N really wants a pair of those free panties. Seriously, that’s one more day she won’t have to do laundry.

APE Expo Oct 1-2

I am very excited to be attending my very first Alternative Press Expo, aka: APE, next week in San Francisco. APE is the third show that Comic-Con International hosts annually (WonderCon and SDCC). Since APE is lower profile than it’s two big sister shows, here is a little history to bring you up to speed.

Dan Vado (SLG Publishing) started this event 17 years ago for the purpose of supporting independent creators and small press publishers. He wanted to to celebrate and promote the smaller artists that would easily be overlooked in the enormous world of mainstream comics. Since that time, it has become a hub for artists, writers, and publishers to not only connect with each other but also to engage fans. While APE has an impressing list of about 400 exhibitors, it’s 5-6k attendees makes this an intimate and less intimidating experience. Besides exhibitors, there will be programming running throughout the weekend covering a range of independent comic book topics as well as spotlights creators. A wide range of workshops will be available to help young creators craft their artistic or storytelling skills. There is also a couple of Comic Creator Connection sessions which allow for writers and artists to meet and collaborate.

2011 marks the 18th year for APE and I am really looking forward to experiencing it. As a bonus, a 2011 paid attendee San Diego Comic-Con badge gets you free admission to APE! So if you live in the area, why wouldn’t you go?!?! Check out all the schedule, pricing, programming on the APE website and I will see you in San Fran in a week!

You can also follow on Twitter: @APExpo.

A few of the DC 52…

A new universe has begun! The interwebs and legions of podcasters are buzzing about the good, bad, and the ugly of the new DC reboot that started 7 days ago. A number of fan polls have placed this highly anticipated reinvention to moderate to above average- however, the sales have been strong for this first month which has to put a Joker-esque smile on DC execs. We’ll see if it lasts. There are too many books to review, but with the help of a couple of my nerd colleagues- Johnny and Sergio, here are thoughts on a few titles:

Justice League #1
 I’ve been a huge fan of the JLA since the ‘post-Crisis’ reboot 25 years ago. However, it’s never been as good since that magical era. There have been several ‘soft’ reboots and different cast of characters, but it has never been able to maintain the strength of those early years. So I was eager to see this new story in hopes of capturing my attention. My first impression was in regards to the visually striking Jim Lee art. I don’t think it’s as good as his Batman and Robin but it’s very solid. Lee’s passion and personal investment in this property shows in every frame of every page. I am doubtful he will keep it up but I will enjoy it while it lasts. This issue deals mainly with Batman and Green Lantern’s first encounter. Like the classic Odd Couple, they bicker, argue, and taunt each other as they try to solve an extraterrestrial mystery. This was clearly not written for me- but for a new generation of potential fan’s. The dialogue is broad and simplistic. Their names where used over and over again like the writer was concerned that we would forget who these heroes were. Green Lantern was depicted as an intergalactic tool. I know this is suppose to be set 5 years prior to the JLA we all know, but there was very little redeeming about this Hal Jordan. Batman was his usual awesome self, but found it implausible that he would be hanging with this emerald night light. It did have a dramatic conclusion which successfully enticed me to at least continue with #2. I give it a hesitant recommend as long as you lower your expectations. It’s got great potential so let’s see where it goes.

Action Comics #1
My first and favorite superhero of all time is none other than Superman. I started my love affair with comic books with the 4 Superman titles that also rebooted his story back in the mid 80′s. I had definite high expectations for this book however, I was skeptical since I am not a huge fan of Grant Morrison. I think he is a great starter but doesn’t know where to take his stories, so let’s hope this does not suffer the same fate. I was unfamiliar with Rags Morales (gotta luv that name) work but was quickly won over with his kinetic style. Seen as a public menace, Superman is being pursued by local authorities who are being manipulated by one particularly bald man of questionable character. Still getting used to his own powers, Supes leaves quite a wake of mayhem anywhere he goes. He is without his iconic super tights. Instead, he dons his ‘casual Friday’ look with jeans, a super-T, and a home made cape. This Smallville look is a humble and charming way to show his early years. Before, the Man of Steel just appeared fully polished so this version is a refreshing take. Clark is depicted in a ‘Peter Parker’ style. He is just trying to make ends meet and find his place in the big city. Not much is laid out in regards to story so it’s clear this is set to be a slow burn- which I am ok with. Overall, I found Action #1 to be a breath of fresh air and I will definitely continue for a while.

Detective Comics #1 by Johnny (aka@NerdOutburst) If you could judge a book by it’s cover, you could easy assume (like i did) that ‘Batman: Dectective Comics’ issue #1 was going to be one of the best of DC comics of the new 52. And it delivers. The story drops us right in the middle of the Dark Knight tracking down the Joker, with an inevitable and entertaining confrontation. Tony Daniel’s impressive penciling and Ryan Winn’s talented inking make this first issue incredibly brilliant to read and visually stunning for the eyes. I especially enjoyed reading this comic after a slightly disappointing read of ‘Superman: Action Comics’ issue #1. Without giving too much away, the creepy and disturbing cliffhanger at the end was enough to hook me for more. Easily, the best of ‘the new 52′ i’ve read at the moment. Highly recommended.

Animal Man #1 by Sergio (@Stanley_Pain)The New 52 has been pretty well received thus far. However, one book that really stands head and shoulders above the rest is Jeff Lemire’s, “Animal Man.” Of all the #1′s, Animal Man really wants you to invest time and care into the character of Buddy Baker (superhero/actor/activist). Lemire takes hold with his narration & dialog, asking that you understand the world of a family man, self-conscious actor, and what’s perceived to be a washed up hero. We see how his newfound (albeit minimal) fame affects his family life as Buddy undergoes certain changes both internally & externally. The book takes dramatic turns and gives off a supernatural vibe, which is a nice change of pace from the standard superhero book. Travel Foreman’s pencils add a nice human touch that only furthers your reading of the material because it’s not grossly exaggerated. While I’ve enjoyed most of the New 52, I cannot recommend Animal Man enough for its attention to detail & genuine interest in putting characters’ emotions before all else. You can only become as emotionally invested in a character as the writer wants you to. Jeff Lemire cares for Buddy Baker and respects the audience enough to want to challenge any and all newcomers into thinking outside the norm.

Swamp Thing #1 by Johnny 
My only memory of ‘Swamp Thing’ growing up was watching a very short lived cartoon saturday mornings. Other than a few spotty memories, I know very little about the origin of the character. *Spoiler Alert: It was an interesting surprise when DC brought back the character at the end of Brightest Day. It was very difficult to pick up this title (being that comics are expensive and ‘the New 52′ will probably break my wallet) but I was immediately on board when I read that Scott Snyder (American Vampire, Batman: Detective Comics) would be writing the series and that he was passionate about the character. Yanick Paquette does the artwork with enormous detail and the pages spill out beautifully. The first issue is somewhat a slow build, introducing us the character of Alec Holland but a very nice cameo that grabbed my interest near the final pages. Snyder has never failed me, and you should definitely give this series your hard earned cash.

Great Minds Think Alike at SDCC 2011’s Women of Marvel Panel

By Aileen Cacayorin, Staff Writer

When Tina Fey, writer, producer and star of NBC’s 30 ROCK (but still probably best known for spot on impression of Sarah Palin) became the third woman to receive the Mark Twain Prize for American Humor she said in her acceptance speech:

“I’m  so honored . . . but I do hope that women these days are achieving at a rate where we can stop counting what number they are at things . . . “

When Amy Poehler, SNL-veteran and star of Parks and Recreation, was asked a question about the rising number of women in comedy she responded with:

“This question is boring.”

And when the panelists at SDCC 2011 were asked how they felt about being asked to be part of the Women of Marvel panel, they all had opinions along the same line of thought:

They hoped one day there would no longer be a need for a Women of Marvel/Comics panel and that the focus should instead be on people in comics.

That was the take-home message of the estroge-, er . . .Oxygen sponsored Women of Marvel panel on Sunday. Like other leading ladies, rather than receive recognition for being successful women in a traditionally male-dominated industry, they preferred that women simply be recognized for their success. “There are a lot of women in comics and working at Marvel,” said panelist and Marvel.com social media coordinator Janna O’Shea, and the panelists concurred their wasn’t a need to single them out.

So why aren’t there more female-lead driven titles in both comics and movies? Again, the panelists preferred that the focus shouldn’t be about more female characters and stories, but stronger characters and stories in general.  Female characters should not be written for the wrong reasons, in the end it comes down to good story telling. “ Just so long as the story’s good, that’s what is ultimately important” , said colorist Christina Strain.

Regarding the future of women in comics, X-23 writer, Marjorie Lui commented that she “would like to see it taken for granted that women are into comics.” Overall, it shouldn’t simply be about encouraging more women to pursue careers in comics, but to encouraging more people in general to become part of the industry.

On a more personal note, I was excited to attend this panel.  I had spoken briefly with social media coordinator, Janna O’Shea, at the Marvel booth (she’s so nice!) and wanted to hear what she and web designer, Judy Stephens, had to say about working for Marvel, especially since they both worked outside of the actual comic book creation process.

“A lot of people working at Marvel don’t necessarily start out being into comics. There are lots of people working in HR, web design, legal, etc,” said Judy.

“Just do good work, and get yourself and and your work out there,” advised Janna.

There was a pretty good turnout for the panel, though the audience was mostly (and unsurprisingly) women. Overall, the panel was informative and I agree with its underlying sentiment: hopefully sooner, than later, we won’t need to have a Women of Marvel/in Comics panel, and we can focus more on people in comics.

@dreamyeyed and @OMG_DJ_Judy

Green Lantern v2.0

Looks like Wonder Woman isn’t the only DC hero that can’t stop messing with their wardrobe. Warner Bros recently released new images of Ryan Reynolds’ Green Lantern suit tweaked from the first version (pictured left). After seeing the new trailer at San Francisco’sWonderCon, I was a little more assured that this wasn’t going to be a total DC failure. However, I am still not a fan of the total CGI costume and would have preferred an actual suit that was enhanced with special effects. Call me old fashion. Below is the suit in it’s latest incarnation. Looks like there is a little more detail with an emphasis on the power surging through the suit. It also appears there is a more noticeable ‘scales’ texture on the black areas. While maybe the story maybe able to win me over, I am doubtful the suit ever will. Your thoughts?

Revenge of the Nerds

Working on a recent project about comic books, I started reflecting on how the cultural perceptions of nerds have changed over the past couple of decades. While this very special demographic (which I proudly identify with) is still largely misunderstood, it is more mainstream than ever due to the rise in technology, the popularity of superhero movies, and the explosion of the video game industry. At the heart of it all has been the implacable comic book universe. This 80+ year old genre has not only been a source of unending creativity but has also brought nerds out from their parent’s basements and onto the surface of the vast sea of popular culture.

Comic books have a very special place in my heart. As a child of immigrant parents from Korea, I grew up in a very traditional household, eating with chopsticks, speaking the language, etc. Contrary to home life, my school and play world were primary caucasian communities and I was a part of a very small minority. I never felt truly comfortable in either environment. I was stuck between two worlds and it caused me to feel alienated, alone, and confused. I always felt like I was meant for something greater but was left to wandering through the dark to discover it. Then came that monumental day when I came across ’The Man of Steel’ issue #1.    

This 6 part mini-series by Byrne and Giordano, profoundly impacted me during this formative period. Here was a character who was a product of two homes, belonging to both but not truly feeling home to either. This future man of steel always felt like he was created to make a difference but wrestled with compromising the two worlds of his heritage. He was in an identity crisis. I started to feel understood. I realized that pain and struggle is part of this journey into young adulthood and I was not alone on this path. Comic books continued to be a HUGE part of my youth. My parents had  the typical Asian mindset and immersed themselves in their work and as a result, were not very involved in my life. Turning to comic books, superheroes ended up raising me. It’s from them that developed and early sense of morality, corruption, truth and justice. Early on, I adopted a heart of advocacy for the misfits and marginalized of my community. That same passion continues today.

In the mid 80′s, Frank Miller created his masterpiece, The Dark Knight Returns- and I instantly fell in love. It was my bible and I read it over and over. It was the first time that a mainstream character was depicted in a gritty, realistic way with real story lined and real consequences. I knew that if the big screen could ever depict heroes in a similar tone and style, that it would change the industry and culture forever. It was a dream that I thought was impossible. Christopher Nolan’s Dark Knight remains one of the highest grossing ($600 m) movies to date with every studio trying to reproduce the same formula. I’m still in disbelief that one of the most powerful industries in the world are now turning to comic books for ideas. Life is but a dream.

I owe much of who I am to comic books. I know it is still struggling to be considered a legitimate form of literature but I know it has touch me in more ways than Shakespeare or Hemingway ever did. The fusion of art and story to this day still inspires me as a leader, artist, movie enthusiast, AND as a proud nerd. I am eagerly looking forward to where the art form will go and what dreams will unfold. Nerds are back and with a vengeance but in a good way. They are here to create and craft dreams and to help lead our generation into the future.

You can learn more about me or read more posts at www.leadcreatively.wordpress.com

Free Comic Book Day!

It’s the most wonderful time of the year…that’s right its annual Free Comic Book Day! This super awesome event is not only evidence that there is a good God but another reasons why this is the greatest country on the planet! I just don’t understand why it’s not a national holiday?!?!

OK, I may be getting a little extreme. Go by your local comic book store and pick up from a limited selection as many comic books that you will read and make sure to leave some for the next nerd. We’re going to Alakazamt the University Center in Irvine (CA) so hope to see you there!

You can get more info at www.freecomicbookday.com