As pointed out both at Ratchet’s Hulk site and Bleeding Cool, the Incredible Hulk celebrates his 50th year in print this March… and there has been little to no ballyhoo from Marvel.
Currently, the character is being published in two ongoing monthly books, but they strangely have nothing to do with each other.
Back when Pak was writing Incredible Hulk and Loeb was scripting Hulk, there was overlap that led to the massive crossovers that rocked the green Goliath’s world, even drafting in the other Marvel heroes. Say what you will about World War Hulks, but it was a major event and made the Hulk a high-profile hero again.
The newly minted Incredible Hulk has received dire reviews and a rotating regular artist post that has prevented the comic from maintaining any real identity. Meanwhile the (Red) Hulk has gone from strength to strength thanks to the stellar skills of Jeff Parker, Gabriel Hardman and Patrick Zircher. A new rogue’s gallery, a strong ongoing story line and well developed characters make this series a stand out hit… but it’s not the ‘real’ Hulk.
You can praise the (Red) Hulk comic all you like, but that doesn’t change the fact that it is not the Banner Hulk and for many readers that’s all that matters.
Meanwhile the new Incredible Hulk series seems to be floundering despite the obvious talents of Jason Aaron. So… what can be done? The character is turning 50 and is more or less separated from the Marvel Universe at large, replaced by a ruby-skinned pretender. Reviews have been harsh and there is a major ‘change’ coming in issue 7, but will it be enough to save the readership?
The Avengers feature film prominently features the Hulk in many of its previews and sure it’s the third actor to take on the part of Banner since 2003, but maybe it’ll stick this time and we’ll get a Hulk for a new generation. Even so, what happens when anyone drawn in with this new Hulk decides to stop by a comic shop and finds that the Hulk is red, not green?
It seems obvious to me that the (Red) Hulk should be retired (despite how great it is) and Parker should be given the direction of the proper Incredible Hulk comic.
The latest Hulk series has come to a close amid controversy and major success. A planet ruled by the Hulk brought in new readers while the red-skinned ‘replacement’ has been both embraced and rejected by fandom. Several multi-part stories and crossovers later and the monthly book starring Bruce Banner expired in a Hellish vision of destruction. It was quite a ride and will be difficult to top. The Hulk has an extremely devoted and passionate fanbase that does not shrink from making their opinions known. So how can a new ongoing series by a new creative team succeed?
The plan has been to introduce a new spin on an old idea by splitting up Hulk and Banner. In the coda of Fear Itself #7, Hulk expelled Banner from their union in some mysterious fashion that confused even his human self. Walking off to finally be left alone, Hulk trod into the distance in much the same manner as we had seen his puny alter ego several times over.
The new issue opens with Hulk living the life of a hero underground with the moloids (denizens of the deep often utilized by the Mole Man). Fighting savage monsters that would not look out of place on the distant planet Sakaar, Hulk shows some kind of pity and compassion for the creature, acknowledging that this is a somewhat somber and brooding persona of the Hulk, far more sophisticated that we usually see. He has also grown out his hair and is sporting a beard, confirming that some time has past since we last saw him in print.
Hulk by Marc Silvestri
Despite the accolades and devotion of the moloids, Hulk remains aloof and distant, refusing to take part in the revels celebrating his victories against the threats of the underworld. He knows that trouble is coming for him. The law of averages holds up this sentiment that trouble always finds him and this time is no different. Sure enough, as soon as Hulk lowers his guard and relaxes several high-powered mechanized attackers assault the dwelling along with a drilling machine that pierces their defenses.
After a few fists are thrown and machines smashed, one of the attackers sheds her armor to reveal that they are not here to hurt Hulk but ask for his help against something only he can defeat, Banner. In a far away jungle setting, generically modified creatures round up subjects for their master, the clearly insane Bruce Banner.
Even though I am a fan of the Hulk, I was reluctant to get invested in a new series. I enjoy Aaron’s writing on the whole and am a fan of Silvestri’s from his X-Men work back in the day, but… another Hulk comic? I wasn’t sold. The new issue is rather remarkable in that in a short number of pages it shakes up the status quot, shows us sides of Banner and Hulk we had not seen before and delivers the smashing action that readers long for.
The artwork by Silvestri is not to everyone’s taste and I can dig that. His linework is very scratchy and thin leading to a more cartoonish look that is far more abstract that many readers are used to. In my opinion, it suits the horror element perfectly and works with the mood quite well. It may look dated as well to some, but there’s a reason why Silvestri is a renowned artist and I think subsequent issues will prove why.
If you were holding out on this series because you were either unsure of a new take on the Hulk or just exhausted from over-exposure of the green goliath, you should give this a try. If you are a newcomer, this is a great jumping on point as it does not rely on any backstory (so far, anyway).
(note: all information including ad copy is from the publisher)
If you can’t make it to the shop, just click on any of the images below to be taken to an online retailer. I don’t get any referrals for these sales, I’m just doing my bit to spread the word on some neat products.
Moon Knight #5
Moon Knight #5 By: Brian Michael Bendis, Alex Maleev
The new kingpin of L.A. has brought the fight to Moon Knight’s front door and now Marc Spector is going to return the favor.Moon Knight unleashes hell on the L.A. underworld in his race to uncover the kingpin’s secret identity!!
From the Eisner award-winning team that brought you DAREDEVIL and SCARLET.
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Astro City Life In The Big City HC New Ed
Astro City Life In The Big City HC New Ed By: Kurt Busiek, Brent Anderson, Will Blyberg, Alex Ross
The original ASTRO CITY miniseries is back in a new edition, simultaneously available in hardcover and trade paperback with new cover art by Alex Ross!
Welcome to Astro City, a shining city on a hill where super heroes patrol the skies. Each chapter in this collection is a stand-alone story highlighting different aspects or characters in the Astro City world.
The city’s leading super hero tries to be everywhere at once, and berates himself for every wasted second as he longs for just a moment of his own. A small-time hood learns a hero’s secret identity and tries to figure out how to profit from the knowledge. A beat reporter gets some advice from his editor on his first day on the job. A young woman tries to balance the demands of her family with her own hopes and desires.
Despite the fantastic settings, the characters in these slice-of-life stories feel like real people, and that gives the stories real power.
Action Comics #1 By: Grant Morrison, Rags Morales, Rick Bryant
The one and only Grant Morrison (ALL-STAR SUPERMAN) returns to Superman, joined by sensational artist Rags Morales (IDENTITY CRISIS), to bring you tales of The Man of Steel unlike any you’ve ever read!
This extra-sized debut issue is the cornerstone of the entire DC Universe!
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Alter Ego #104
Alter Ego #104
Alter Ego proudly celebrates the 50th anniversary of Fantastic Four #1-and the birth of Marvel Comics! With a new, never-before-published interview with Stan Lee and rare art and artifacts by Jack Kirby, Steve Ditko, Joe Sinnott, Dick Ayers, Roy Thomas, and others! Also: Jim Amash’s interview with 1940s Timely editor Al Sulman, FCA (Fawcett Collectors of America) with Marc Swayze and C.C. Beck, and Michael T. Gilbert in Mr. Monster’s Comic Crypt! All behind a new cover by Ron Frenz and Joe Sinnott!
Omac #1 By: Dan Didio, Keith Giffen, Scott Koblish
The all-seeing Brother Eye satellite has unleashed a new beast upon the DC Universe in this smashing new series! Kevin Kho has become an unwilling participant in a war between Checkmate and Brother Eye as he is transformed into the One Machine Army Corp known only as O.M.A.C.!
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Doctor Who Classics TPB Vol. 07
Doctor Who Classics TPB Vol. 07
IDW’s collections of re-mastered and fully colored classic Doctor Who tales return with the Seventh Doctor!
From the far reaches of space to Victorian London, follow the seventh incarnation of the Doctor-as portrayed by Sylvester McCoy-as he faces the reptilian Ice Warriors and other fantastic threats.
This volume features the finest writers and artists Who has to offer, such as Grant Morrison, Dan Abnett, Bryan Hitch, and John Ridgway.
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Detective Comics #1
Detective Comics #1 By: Tony S. Daniel, Ryan Winn
DC’s flagship title is relaunched for the first time ever, with new Batman adventures from acclaimed writer/artist Tony S. Daniel! A killer called The Gotham Ripper is on the loose on Batman’s home turf – leading The Dark Knight on a deadly game of cat and mouse.
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Punisher #3
Punisher #3 By: Greg Rucka, Marco Checchetto, Bryan Hitch
Award winning novelist GREG RUCKA continues his violent and visionary return to Marvel.
Even 10,000 feet above New York, no one escapes the Punisher.
As Frank trails the criminal underbelly of the city, he encounters the deadly, mob created villain: THE VULTURE for a brutal battle against death and gravity.
Meanwhile as NYPD detectives get closer to understanding Frank Castle’s new relationship, one of New York’s finest is struggling keep his own Punisher association untraceable.
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New Teen Titans Games HC
New Teen Titans Games HC By: Marv Wolfman, George Perez, George Perez
Wraparound cover by GEORGE PÉREZ Twenty years in the making, TEEN TITANS: GAMES is a can’t-miss for fans new and old. Harking back to the era when NEW TEEN TITANS was the best-selling monthly comic series comes this lost tale from legendary creators Marv Wolfman (CRISIS ON INFINITE EARTHS) and George Perez (FINAL CRISIS: LEGION OF THREE WORLDS) starring their fan-favorite characters just in time for the NEW TEEN TITANS’ 30th anniversary! Set in the 1980s during the height of the New Teen Titans popularity, this stand-alone hardcover features a mysterious villain playing a deadly game with New York City as the game board-and the Teen Titans as the pieces! Like something out of a time capsule, this never-before-seen epic is the New Teen Titans story from their original creators that has never been told…until now!
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Swamp Thing #1
Swamp Thing #1 By: Scott Snyder, Yanick Paquette
One of the world’s most iconic characters has returned to the heart of the DC Universe, and every step he takes will shake the foundations of the Earth! Alec Holland has his life back…but the Green has plans for it.
A monstrous evil is rising in the desert, and it’ll take a monster of another kind to defend life as we know it!
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Walter Koenig Things To Come #1
Walter Koenig Things To Come #1 By: Walter Koenig, Juan Baez
Two hundred years after the apocalypse the human race, buried in the bowels of the earth, is a few tortured breaths from extinction.
It offers up one last gift to the poisoned surface and the mutant life forms that survive there; a new species.
Up until now the creatures of fiction, these new beings must determine the purpose of their being. Are they only the violent spawn of mankind’s evil doomed to a soulless eternity or the progenitors of a better more hopeful world?
Is it possible for them to tear the throats from their prey, drink the blood and still pray to god?
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Spider-island Avengers #1
Spider-island Avengers #1 By: Christopher Yost, Mike McKone, Leinil Francis Yu
SPIDER-ISLAND TIE IN!
All of Manhattan has been transformed into an island of Spider-Men… and it’s up to the Avengers to contain the chaos.
But when a spider-powered Ultimatum attacks the United Nations, the?Avengers are spread too thin… and must turn to the one man who can save them all: FROG-MAN.
No, for real.
We were just as surprised as you.
PLUS! Squirrel Girl takes on the most unlikely foe of all!
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Green Arrow #1
Green Arrow #1 By: J. T. Krul, Dan Jurgens, George Perez, Brett Booth, Rob Hunter
Green Arrow is on the hunt. Driven by inner demons, Ollie Queen travels the world and brings outlaws to justice…by breaking every law.
Now, armed with cutting-edge weaponry and illegally gained intel (courtesy of his team at QCore), Green Arrow is shooting first and asking questions later.
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Giant Size Little Lulu Vol. 4 TPB
Giant Size Little Lulu Vol. 4 TPB By: John Stanley, John Stanley, Irving Tripp
Named one of the top one hundred comics of all time by The Comics Journal, John Stanley’s Little Lulu is one of the most enduring gems of the Golden Age. In a testament to Stanley’s bottomless imagination, this behemoth volume sees mischievous Lulu Moppet’s world continue to expand with new situations and characters, including the first appearance of fan-favorite villain Ol’ Witch Hazel.
* Collecting three more volumes of Dark Horse’s acclaimed reprint series! Contains Marge’s Little Lulu #38-#53.
Marvel Minimates X-Men First Class Set
A Diamond Select Release! Art Asylum Designs & Sculpts!
Just in time for the release of the major motion picture, X-Men: First Class, Diamond Select turns to the classic X-Men comic with this set of Professor Xavier’s original first class of mutant students!
This Specialty Market Exclusive box set features four of the first mutant heroes in their original blue and yellow outfits, including: Cyclops, Jean Grey, Angel, and Ice Man. Each Minimate stands 2.5″ tall with 14 points of articulation and a variety of removable and interchangeable parts and accessories.
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Potters Field TPB
Potters Field TPB By: Mark Waid, Paul Azaceta, J. G. Jones
First time in trade paperback! Outside New York City is Potter’s Field, where the unnamed dead are buried. Now, a mysterious man has taken it upon himself to name the unnamed in this cemetery!
Using a network of underground operatives who don’t know each other, he fights to save the unsaved and solve the mysteries of the unjustly slain!
Collecting the critically acclaimed three issue mini-series and the Stone Cold one-shot into one volume!
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The Boy Who Loved Batman: A Memoir
The Boy Who Loved Batman: A Memoir By Michael Uslan
Is any superhero cooler than Batman? He’s a crime-fighting vigilante with a tragic past, a lawless attitude, and a seemingly endless supply of high-tech gadgetry. In this fully illustrated memoir, author Michael Uslan recalls his journey from early childhood fandom through to the decades he spent on a caped crusade of his own: to bring Batman to the silver screen as the dark, serious character he was at heart. Uslan’s story traces his path from the wilds of New Jersey to the limelight of Hollywood, following his work as Executive Producer on every Batman film from Tim Burton’s 1989 re-envisioning to 2012’s The Dark Knight Rises. Through it all, he helped to create one of the most successful pop culture franchises of all time.
“Don’t miss this spellbinding tale of one man who saw what Batman was-and realized what he could become. See how Michael Uslan took a comic book hero and, through the magic of motion pictures, helped transform him into a world-wide icon!” -Stan Lee, Chairman Emeritus of Marvel Comics and Chairman of Pow! Entertainment, co-creator of Spider-Man, X-Men, Iron Man, and The Hulk
Michael Uslan brought comic books to academia in the 1970s with class (figuratively and literally) and he brought Batman to Hollywood a decade later with the same sort of integrity. I’ve been reading or watching his work since my youth and the intellect always shined through – now with his memoir I also see the emotional backbeat of his hero’s journey. -Geoff Boucher, Los Angeles Times
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Men Of War #1
Men Of War #1 By: Ivan Brandon, Tom Derenick, viktor kalvachev
On the ground and on the front lines, a young, headstrong soldier known as Joe Rock assumes command of Easy Company – a team of ex-military men turned contractors.
Will they survive the battle-scarred landscape carved by the DCU’s Super-Villains? Find out in this explosive new series from Ivan Brandon (Viking, DOC SAVAGE) and Tom Derenick (JUSTICE LEAGUE OF AMERICA)!
Spider #2 By: Martin Powell, Hannibal King, Dan Brereton
This item is currently not available, but we will special order a copy from our supplier if you choose to backorder it from us today. Delivery will be delayed by two to four weeks while the backorder is processed and shipped from our supplier to our warehouse. Your credit card will not be charged for this item until it is ready to be shipped to you. For more information, please see our backordering help page.
The Spider faces a mastermind of monstrous power, The Thunder King who wields the tempests of the heavens like a scythe, holding New York in a reign of unrelenting terror. In the flooding avenues below, Nita Van Sloan, the Spider’s beloved, alone and against the odds, risks all to save the helpless victims of the drowning city.
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Doctor Who Dalek To Victory T-Shirt
Doctor Who Dalek To Victory T-Shirt
The Ironsides will turn the tide against the Nazi menace on this t-shirt that recreates a classic 1940s propaganda poster!
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Shadow Double Novel #52
Shadow Double Novel #52 By: Maxwell Grant/Walter Gibson, Tom Lovell, Edd Cartier
Who knows what evil lurks in the hearts of men? The Shadow knows! First, The Shadow executes a deadly chess game with The Crime Master, an underworld kingpin whose amazing superbrain rivals his own. Then, the Master of Darkness seeks to unmask The Fifth Napoleon, the master plotter who commands New York’s four most powerful crime lords. This instant collectors’ item features both classic cover paintings by George Rozen, the original interior pulp illustrations by Tom Lovell and Anthony Tollin profiles radio legend Frank Readick, the ‘Man with The Shadow’s Laugh!’
Hulk #40 By: Jeff Parker, Grabriel Hardman
THE OMEGEX SAGA CONCLUDES!
Apparently you really can’t go home again. The Red Hulk just wanted to visit his old homestead, but is now in the fight of his life against the mighty Omegex, the world destroyer!
As Red Hulk is on the ropes and it seems as though things can’t get any worse, super-villainess extraordinaire Zero/One and her henchman Black Fog arrive.
Rulk’s renowned writer Jeff Parker and all-star artist Gabriel Hardman bring a thrilling, action-packed conclusion to Red Hulk’s most dangerous dust-up yet!
AFX Exclusive Star Wars Logo Bookends (Gold Edition) by Gentle Giant
AFX Exclusive Star Wars Logo Bookends (Gold Edition) by Gentle Giant
Limited Edition of 1000
From the moment it blasted onto the silver screen in 1977, the Star Wars logo has become an iconic fixture of science fiction and fantasy to many generations. Cast in high quality polystone and then hand painted, each bookend is numbered and comes complete with a matching limited edition certificate of authenticity. Whether they’re holding up an assortment of media or on display proudly by themselves, these collectible bookends are sure to add enjoyment to any home or office.
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The Avenger: The Justice Inc. Files
The Avenger: The Justice Inc. Files
From the flames of tragedy, a hero rises! In the roaring heart of the crucible, steel is made. In the raging flame of personal tragedy, men are sometimes forged into something more than human. Life was bliss for millionaire adventurer Richard Henry Benson until the fateful day crime and greed took away his wife and daughter and turned him into something more than human. Driven by loss, compelled by grief, The Avenger is a chilled impersonal force of justice, more machine than man, dedicated to the destruction of evildoers everywhere. This collection features new prose stories of The Avenger by such luminaries as Will Murray, Robin W. Bailey, Matthew Baugh, Joe Gentile, Paul Kupperberg, Howard Hopkins, Mark Ellis, Ron Fortier, and David Michelinie.
The MAD Fold-In Collection: 1964-2010
Al Jaffee s fold-ins, on the inside back cover of virtually every issue of MAD Magazine since 1964, have become an icon of American humor. Generations have grown up with Jaffee s inspired skewerings of our foibles and cultural conundrums. Issue after issue, each Fold-in requires the reader to simply fold the page so that arrow A meets arrow B to reveal the hidden gag image, a simple idea that masks both undeniable artistic ingenuity and comic timing. In this deluxe four-volume set, each of the 410 fold-ins is reproduced at its original size, with a digital representation of the corresponding folded image on the following page (so collectors won t have to fold their book to get the jokes). Featuring insightful essays by such luminaries as Pixar s Pete Docter and humorist Jules Feiffer, The MAD Fold-In Collection is the definitive gift for the millions of fans who ve grown up with MAD for nearly 60 years.
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Animal Man #1
Animal Man #1 By: Jeff Lemire, Travel Foreman, Dan Green, travel foreman
Buddy Baker has gone from ‘super’ man to family man – but is he strong enough to hold his family together when Maxine, his young daughter, starts to manifest her own dangerous powers?
Find out in this dramatic new series from writer Jeff Lemire (SWEET TOOTH) and artist Travel Foreman (The Immortal Iron Fist).
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New Avengers Annual #1
New Avengers Annual #1 By: Brian Michael Bendis, Gabriele Dell’otto
Marvel Architect Variant also available Marvel Architects Sketch Variant also available From the creative team of SECRET WAR!
Simon Williams doesn’t think the Avengers are helping the world and is willing to do whatever is needed to stop them.
Including bringing in his own NEW team…THE REVENGERS!
One of the biggest throwdowns in Avenger’s history starts HERE!
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Blue Sunshine
Blue Sunshine Directed by Jeff Lieberman (Squirm)
At a party, someone goes insane and murders three women. Falsely accused of the brutal killings, Jerry is on the run. More bizarre killings continue with alarming frequency all over town. Trying to clear his name, Jerry discovers the shocking truth…people are losing their hair and turning into violent psychopaths and the connection may be some LSD all the murderers took a decade before. (via IMDB)
Heroes For Hire #11 By: Dan Abnett, Andy Lanning, Kyle Hotz, Jay Anacleto
FEAR ITSELF TIE-IN!
On the devastated Raft, the Purple Man unleashes Elektra as his pet killer-with only The Shroud standing in the way! Meanwhile, in the shattered streets of Manhattan, Misty Knight joins cult faves Gargoyle and Paladin to fight the macabre menace of Monster!
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Doc Savage Double Novel #50
Doc Savage Double Novel #50 By: Kenneth Robeson/Lester Dent, Paul Orban
The Pulp Era’s greatest superman journeys to the American West in classic pulp thrillers by Lester Dent. First, a bequest from a dying scientist leads Doc Savage to Death Valley in search of a long-dead pirate’s legendary treasure.
Can this amazing invention allow The Pirate’s Ghost to speak from beyond the grave? Then, the Man of Bronze goes undercover at a Wyoming dude ranch to solve the bizarre puzzle of a strange Green Eagle with lead feathers.
Plus, an intriguing article by The Shadow’s famous raconteur, Walter Gibson.
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Avengers 4pc Button Set
Avengers 4pc Button Set
The Avengers will assemble, and with Ata Boy’s Marvel Universe button sets, you can decorate your bookbag or jacket with buttons that feature artwork of Marvel Comics’ most popular characters! Each set comes with 4 buttons built around a theme – Captain America, Thor, or the Avengers as a whole. Blister card packaging.
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Godzilla Gangsters & Goliaths #4 (of 5)
Godzilla Gangsters & Goliaths #4 (of 5) By: John Layman, Alberto Ponticelli, Paul Hanley, Ponticelli
With the help of Mothra, Detective Sato thought he had the Takahashi crime syndicate on the ropes… but Takahashi isn’t going down without a fight!
Sato is once again helpless as his son is kidnapped and Mothra is no longer in his control.
Never one to give up, Sato decides to just think bigger. But what’s bigger than Mothra?
The chaos nears its conclusion!
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Along with their big movie projects, Marvel Entertainment is also branching out onto TV. Marvel already has a varied track record on the small screen. The publisher enjoyed massive success with their Hulk series back in the day, lackluster results with the Spider-Man program (though I personally champion it) and the unmentionables Dr. Strange and Captain America.
The ‘heroes with real world problems’ angle makes Marvel superheroes ideal for TV adaptation, but will the characters chosen make the grade or will they join Reb Brown in their legacy as duds? Only time will tell. The details of the line-up come from MarvelousNews.com, a site that I heartily recommend for sterling up to date news regarding the House of Ideas and their various action figure lines.
Jeph Loeb shared some new information for the Marvel Television panel about upcoming live-action shows. Below are the highlights of the shows:
The first series for ABC is “AKA Jessica Jones” and described as a story about a failed superhero. The show would feature Carol Danvers and Luke Cage. The story follows a character named Jessica Jones, a former costumed superhero named Jewel who left that avocation to become a private investigator. The running thread is Jessica’s character development, as the layers of her past and personality are revealed to the reader while, simultaneously, she tries to come to terms with them herself.
The next project was the Del Toro “Hulk” project, set in the early years of Bruce Banner and the series will be focused on the love story between Banner and Betty Ross.
The third project was “Cloak and Dagger“, which is a story that centers on “two teenagers who discover each other and find their powers both complement and complicate their lives.”
The final live-action TV project announced was “Mockingbird“, which will depicting Bobby Morse as “a Peter Parker Nerd” who is recruited to a secret organization. So she will be a student by day and a special agent by night.
Additionally, three animated projects were featured:
Via IGN:
First up: Spidey. Loeb talked about how the show really has a very special look to it, and as he did so a sketch of Spider-Ham showed up on screen? What the f’?
He was joking around, of course, and yet he wasn’t. The new look he was referring to is the Ultimate feel of the design. Having said that, Loeb did confirm that there will be a Spider-Ham episode of the show!
Loeb then ran a sizzle reel, including what looked to be fully rendered footage, shots from the Ultimate comics and behind-the-scenes interviews with the talent charged with creating the show (including Stan Lee). This is a very playful, funny Spidey, one who fights Doctor Doom while talking to MJ on the phone (in a split screen shot, we see her cutting vegetables in the kitchen and him dodging Doom’s attacks while he’s trying to get off the phone). As he swings through Times Square, with a villain in hot pursuit, Spidey momentarily turns into a spider-toaster after the baddie says, “You’re toast!”
Stylistic flourishes like that will separate the show from past Spider-Man cartoons. Expect the character to break the fourth wall at times, as when he says to a bad guy “Costumes don’t sew themselves” and we quickly cut to Peter at home, sewing his costume. He turns and looks at the camera and says, “What?”
Other glimpses included Spidey riding a motorcycle in a subway tunnel while a tentacled robot chases him, a battle with Venom, Spidey reflecting on Uncle Ben’s birthday, Steven Weber voicing Norman Osborn, J.K. Simmons voicing J. Jonah Jameson, and more.
In the reel, Loeb said that this is actually the first time that Marvel is making its own Spider-Man cartoon. We can expect a lot of forced perspective, suggesting the character is thrusting at you, and a prime example is the classic web-shooting “thwip” which was right in our faces at one point in the clip. The backgrounds will change in mid-shot and look highly stylized at times, and Spidey also appears to exhibit more facial expressions through his mask here (such as “closing his” eyes). The show will have lots of guest stars too — Iron Man, Thor, Captain America, Hulk, Nick Fury (who is mentoring this young Spidey to become the “ultimate Spider-Man,” and is voiced by Chi McBride) and, of course, Stan Lee. He’ll have a recurring role as “Stan the janitor” at Peter’s school.
Many fans may recall that the current Avengers cartoon contains material initially intended for a Hulk animated series. The project was put aside but after Hulk fanatic Jeph Loeb became involved in the TV production arm of Marvel Entertainment, it was only a matter of time before the jade giant returned.
It will be called Hulk and the Agents of S.M.A.S.H. Beautiful, right?
Loeb brought scribe Paul Dini up on stage during the Marvel TV panel this morning, and much like he did last year regarding the Ultimate Spider-Man show, he mock put Dini on the spot as if he was asking him right there and then, for the very first time, to take a job on the show. Last year it was Spidey and this time it was Hulk.
Little was revealed about the series aside from the title, the team roster (Green Hulk, Red Hulk, She-Hulk and A-Bomb), and this promo image:
Finally, spoilers for Avengers series 2 below:
Things begin with a robotic voice reading through the roster of Avengers as holographic displays of each member appear. The threat level and abilities of each Avenger is mentioned, and then the camera reveals that it’s Doctor Doom and his fembot servant who are studying the team. Cut to the main titles.
At Avengers Mansion, Hawkeye answers the door — it’s the Human Torch and the Thing, there to play cards. But as the Hulk enters the room, he immediately runs and attacks the Thing. Because that’s what they do, right? It’s a funny motif that continues throughout the episode.
Meanwhile, Iron Man and Wasp arrive at the Baxter Building, where they’re updating Reed Richards and Sue Storm on the Asgard situation from last season. (Wasp: “We basically saved the universe.”) Back at the mansion, the card game is in full swing and Cap and Black Panther have joined in. The two teams are arguing about who saves the world better, and Cap doesn’t know who the Human Torch is. “How can you not know that?” screams Johnny Storm. Hawkeye nonchalantly says, “Give him a break, Torch. He’s like a hundred years old.” Then the Thing wins the hand and the Hulk attacks him. Again.
Soon the action kicks in as Doom’s robots attack the Baxter Building and the mansion simultaneously. Lots of cool action beats here, with a Doombot’s hand launching from its body and grabbing hold of Wasp, Reed deactivating a robot by wrapping his arms around its body and then accessing its control panel in its head, and the Thing trying to get the Hulk angry, resulting in the Hulk using the Thing’s body to smash robots. The scene culminates with the realization that the Doombots were a distraction while Doom’s crony made off with Wasp and Sue.
At Doom’s castle, the girls are trapped in force fields. The Wasp is berating Doom: “Putting on a skirt over your second-rate Iron Man armor? Not helping.” Soon, the FF and Avengers stage a two-pronged attack on Doom’s castle, which results in some more nice action moments (the Black Panther takes out Doom’s fembot with a claw through the gut, Doom’s hit so hard at one point by the Hulk that his hood momentarily drops to reveal his full metallic helmet). Eventually, Doom simply allows everyone to leave. “Why, Victor?” says Reed. “This isn’t over,” says Iron Man. Doom does not respond, as we close-in on his face and the scarred flesh behind his mask.
The episode ends with the heroes back in New York, pondering why Doom did what he did. And then we cut back to Doom’s castle, where we see the results of scans he had performed on Wasp and Sue…
(note: all information including ad copy is from the publisher)
If you can’t make it to the shop, just click on any of the images below to be taken to an online retailer. I don’t get any referrals for these sales, I’m just doing my bit to spread the word on some neat products.
DC Universe Online Legends #1
DC Universe Online Legends #1
By: Tony Bedard, Marv Wolfman, Howard Porter, Livesay, Adriana Melo, Norman Lee, Ryan SookThe DC event of the year begins, coinciding with the release of the wildly anticipated DCU MMO! Get ready for the ride of a lifetime with this immense, 26-issue biweekly series!
Lex Luthor’s obsession with destroying Superman reaches a fevered limit when he cuts the ultimate Devil’s deal with Brainiac…but with the shake of a hand, has Luthor consigned humanity to genocide?
Comic book legend Marv Wolfman joins fan-favorite writer Tony Bedard and artist Howard Porter to tell the ultimate DC Universe Super Hero tale of good versus evil!
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Brightest Day #19
Brightest Day #19
By: Goeff Johns, Peter J. Tomasi, IVAN REIS, PATRICK GLEASON, ARDIAN SYAF, SCOTT CLARK, JOE PRADO, DAVID FINCH, SCOTT WILLIAMS
The BRIGHTEST DAYS are numbered as this best-selling series heads toward its shocking conclusion, and fans won’t want to miss a single page of the action!’Aquawar’ breaks out with Aquaman, Mera, Aqualad and a surprise guest star facing off against the terrorist forces of Black Manta and Siren to keep the vast waters of the world from sinking the United States!
Deadpool And Cable #26
By: Duane Swiercyznski, Leo Fernandez, Dave Wilkins
Cable is dead, and no one’s more devastated than his old friend and partner, Deadpool (a.k.a. Wade Wilson, a.k.a. the Merc With the Mouth, a.k.a. the guy who’s in pretty much every other solicit this month). Sitting by Cable’s grave, Deadpool struggles to find the perfect way to honor his fallen mutant pal.Then… light bulb! Deadpool remembers Rumekistan, the troubled and totally fictional European country that Cable once tried to turn into a Utopia on earth. Deadpool travels there to establish up a Cable museum! A Cable amusement park! A Cable cable TV show! But Rumekistan isn’t quite what it used to be, and Deadpool’s appearance only makes things worse. To set things right, Deadpool will have to do more than just honor his old friend — he must become him!
Batman Beyond #2
By: Adam Beecgen, Ryan Benjamin, John Stanisci, Dustin Nguyen
Terry’s family is being held hostage by a crook who’s boosted technology so powerful, he doesn’t even understand what he has – and the Justice League intends to neutralize the threat with full aggression.But Neo-Gotham is Batman’s town, and Bruce Wayne doesn’t intend to give up one iota of control over the situation! With his loved ones’ lives on the line, which way will Terry turn under the pressure?
Amazing Spider-Man #653 By: Dan Slott, Stefano Caselli
REVENGE OF THE SPIDER-SLAYER Part 2 of 3 ‘All You Love Will Die’ The SPIDER-SLAYER’S assault escalates as his INSECT ARMY descends on Manhattan!No one in Spidey’s life is safe-from the offices of the Daily Bugle to the Mayor’s staff at City Hall! It’s way more than our wall-crawler can handle. Good thing he’s also a member of the NEW AVENGERS!
Guest-starring LUKE CAGE, JESSICA JONES, MS. MARVEL, MOCKINGBIRD, IRON FIST–and a few surprises.
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Doctor Strange From Marvel Vault #1
Doctor Strange From Marvel Vault #1 By: Roger Stern, Neil Vokes, Mario Alberti
A Marvel Masterpiece from deep inside the treasure vaults can now be told! For decades, Doctor Stephen Strange has worked as a practicing sorcerer out of the weird old brownstone at 177A Bleecker Street in Manhattan’s Greenwich Village. But what eerie secrets does the building hide? What lurks within its walls? Is it Ö haunted?Now, at last, the full story of Doctor Strange’s first night in his Sanctum Sanctorum stands revealed — in a tale tastefully told by Roger Stern (AMAZING SPIDER-MAN) and dramatically drawn by those Masters of the Comic Arts, Neil Vokes and Jay Geldhof (UNTOLD TALES OF SPIDER-MAN: STRANGE ENCOUNTERS, The Black Forest).
Shadow Double Novel Vol. 45
The Shadow confronts a European mastermind of evil to end the murderous menace that lurks on ‘Terror Island.’ Then, Lamont Cranston seeks the strange secret behind the deadly ‘accidents’ that have caused a once-thriving community to become a ‘City of Ghosts.’
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Hulk #29
Hulk #29 By: Jeff Parker, G. Hardman & M. Robinson, Ed McGuinness
SCORCHED EARTH FINALE! Bruce Banner has found the key to stopping the Intelligencia’s assaultÖand it’s going to require RED HULK to team up with the one partner he never thought he would… THE HULK!
With the wounds between them still fresh, the two big brutes of the Marvel Universe must bring their incredible power together or it all ends here.
But was there an even bigger development hidden behind this master plan? Meanwhile on Stage 2- The A-BOMB takes a break from fighting really big monsters, so that he can get killed dead by the mysterious murdering alien-looking dudes!!!
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Superman Forever #1 Mini Statue
Superman Forever #1 Mini Statue
A classic DC Direct statue gets miniaturized!Based on one of the most popular Alex Ross covers ever, this 1:2 scale mini statue features all the sculptural details and intricate painting fans of DC Direct have come to expect.
This limited-edition, hand-painted, cold-cast porcelain statue measures approximately 6.375″ high x 5.875″ wide, is packaged in a 4-color box and is manufactured to order.
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Night of the Living Dead DVDTee
Night of the Living Dead DVDTee This DVDTee includes both a DVD of George A. Romero’s 1968, Night of the Living Dead, and a tee shirt with the original poster art on it. Night of the Living Dead, widely acknowledged as one of the most influential horror films of all time, tells the story of seven people who are secluded in a Pennsylvania farmhouse trying to avoid savage attacks by zombified corpses seeking to eat their flesh. Through radio and TV reports they learn that radiation from outer space is thought to be responsible for a wave of zombie attacks all over the eastern United States. It seems that this radiation from a fallen satellite has caused the dead to walk, and now they hunger for human flesh. Once bitten, you become one of them. The only way to kill them is by gunshot or a severe blow to the head.
The Savage Sword of Conan Volume 9 TPB By: Michael Fleisher, John Buscema, Val Mayerik, Pablo Marcos, Ernie Chan, Vince Colletta, Rudy Nebres
Conan has his hands full in this set of era–defining stories by Michael Fleisher, John Buscema, Ernie Chan, Pablo Marcos, and other familiar talents! In these pages, the Cimmerian faces a demigod who wields the awesome powers of the leopard, three deadly dwarves, a siren with an army of undead pirates, and the return of the Devourer of Souls! Plus, fan–favorite stories “The Blood Ruby of Death,” in which a priceless gem turns even the staunchest allies into enemies, and “When a God Lives,” where the theft of a seemingly harmless statue unleashes the ancient, arcane energies of a god whose only goal is to destroy Conan!
* Over 500 jam–packed pages of adventure, betrayal, and revenge!
* This volume collects The Savage Sword of Conan #94 to #101, complete with covers, frontispieces, backup stories, and pinups from each issue!
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Doc Savage Double Novel #44
Doc Savage Double Novel #44
When mysterious earth tremors endanger New York’s hydroelectric dams, Doc Savage must unearth the strange secret of The Roar Devil.Then, Doc Savage is jailed and charged with murder while investigating oil pipeline sabotage in Arkansas in ‘Satan Black.’
Famous Monsters Of Filmland #254
May 27, 2011 marks the centennial birthday of Vincent Price. Join Famous Monsters of Filmland as they celebrate a century of mayhem and menace by giving horror fans a birthday gift, wrapped up in a glorious cover by Jason Edmiston!Plus, Joe Nazzaro fills readers in on spring’s films and April Snellings adds her usual magic.
Iron Man Legacy #11 By: Fred Van Lente, Steve Kurth, Juan Doe
THE ILLUMINATI versus THE PRIDE as ‘INDUSTRIAL REVOLUTION’ reaches its senses-shattering conclusion!… ‘NUFF SAID!
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Atari Cocktail Recipe Pint Glass
Atari Cocktail Recipe Pint Glass
Make cocktail concoctions inspired by Atari’s classic video games with this pint glass that comes imprinted with the recipes!
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Metropolis DVD & XL T-Shirt
Metropolis DVD & XL T-Shirt
In Fritz Lang’s influential silent classic Metropolis, set in a sprawling city of the future, a workers’ uprising threatens to destroy the metropolis. In the 21st century, society has been divided into two classes – the lowly workers who live underground, and the wealthy ruling class who indulge in a decadent existence in the towering skyscrapers above. One of the ruling class is lured below ground and becomes horrified by what he witnesses. He endeavors to help improve their plight, but a mad scientist and his evil robots are enlisted to thwart the young man and crush the labor reform efforts. This special edition DVD comes with an X-Large t-shirt that features the movie’s original poster art.
Blake’s 7: The Early Years | Season 1 Featuring Colin Salmon, Craig Kelly, Keeley Hawes, Geoffrey Palmer, Benedict Cumberbatch, Jake Maskall, Peter Guinness, Owen Aaronovitch, Michael Cochrane, Carrie Dobro, Stephen Lord, Jan Chappell and Michael Keating
VILA & GAN (Story 1.1), TRAVIS (Story 1.2), AVON (Story 1.3), CALLY (Story 1.4.1 and 1.4.2), JENNA (Story 1.5.1 and 1.5.2).The audio adventures feature DEREK RIDDELL (The Book Group, Ugly Betty) as the eponymous rebel leader Roj Blake, COLIN SALMON (James Bond, Alien vs Predator) as computer genius Kerr Avon and DANIELA NARDINI (This Life) as Supreme Commander Servalan.
Other cast members include CRAIG KELLY (Queer as Folk) as arch-villain Travis, CARRIE DOBRO (Babylon 5) as Jenna, MICHAEL PRAED (Robin of Sherwood), DOUG BRADLEY (Hellraiser), GEOFFREY PALMER (As Time Goes By) and KEELEY HAWES (Ashes to Ashes).
Marvel Knights: Black Panther Djimon Hounsou (Actor), Alfre Woodard (Actor), Mark Brooks (Director)
Deep in the heart of Africa lies Wakanda, an advanced and unconquerable civilization. A family of warrior kings possessing superior speed, strength and agility has governed this mysterious nation as long as time itself. The latest in this famed line is young King T’Challa, the great hero known worldwide as the Black Panther.Now, outsiders once again threaten to invade and plunder Wakanda. Leading this brutal assault is Klaw, a deadly assassin with the blood of T’Challa’s murdered father on his hands, who brings with him a strong army of super-powered mercenaries. Even with Wakanda’s might and his own superhuman skills, can the Black Panther prevail against this deadly invading force?
From respected filmmaker/producer Reginald Hudlin and legendary comic book artist John Romita, Jr., comes the epic Black Panther story for which comic fans have waited 25 years. Starring Djimon Hounsou (Gladiator, Blood Diamond) and Alfre Woodard (True Blood, Star Trek: First Contact).
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Marvel Minimates Series 37 Assortment
Marvel Minimates Series 37 Assortment
A Diamond Select Release! Art Asylum Designs & Sculpts!Diamond Select continues the longest running collector line in toy history. After 36 series of Marvel Minimates you might be wondering what is left. How about the always popular Spider-Man paired with the long awaited Minimates debut of the classic villain Lizard. Next up two eagerly awaited mutants rounding out previous release get ready for 90’s era Professor Xavier and X-Force’s own Warpath. Rounding out the main release the ever loving blue eyed Thing as well as the army building Doombot.
For the specialty exclusive two pack get ready to make room for Thing in his trench coat disguise and more Doombots. Each Minimate stands 2.5″ tall with 14 points of articulation and a variety of removable and interchangeable parts and accessories.
NOTE: This is a factory sealed case assortment.
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Do Androids Dream Of Electric Sheep #19 ( of 24 )
Do Androids Dream Of Electric Sheep #19 ( of 24 ) By: Philip K. Dick, Tony Parker, Brett Weldele
The Eisner-nominated series from the novel that inspired Blade Runner continues as Rick Deckard makes a decision that may be the biggest mistake of his life.Or it may also be the most enlightening experience of his life. Only three renegade Nexus-6 remain, you won’t believe what happens next in Philip K. Dick’s sci-fi masterpiece!
Quicksilver Costume Turquoise T-Shirt XXL
Feel the speed of Quicksilver with this t-shirt! Dress up as the Avenger/Evil Mutant Pietro Maximoff and speed past the jibes and snickers from your foes!
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Hellboy: The Sleeping and the Dead #2
Hellboy: The Sleeping and the Dead #2 By: Mike Mignola, Scott Hampton, Dave Stewart
Hellboy is trapped in a dark basement littered with bones and small coffins, and the only way out is through the floating creature of death!For the first time, Mike Mignola teams up with artist Scott Hampton (Batman, The Sandman Presents: Lucifier) for this gothic tale.
* Classic vampire horror!
* The exciting conclusion!
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War of the Worlds 2005 1/8 Scale Alien Creature Model Kit
War of the Worlds 2005 1/8 Scale Alien Creature Model Kit
Straight from Steven Spielberg’s blockbuster 2005 movie War of The Worlds comes the incredible alien creature model kit! From its unique three limbs and creepy walk, to its refractive eyes and long fingers, it’s striking design invokes feelings of fear and fascination.Created from the original 3D computer model used in the movie, the kit consists of one alien figure with alternate neck for posing options and detailed logo display base.
War of the Worlds 1:8 Scale Martian Model Kit
War of the Worlds 1:8 Scale Martian Model Kit
When meteors began to fall on the Earth in the mid-1950s, no one could have imagined that they were not rocks from space but the vanguard of an invasion from another world.This model kit recreates the Martian from George Pal’s classic 1953 film, The War of the Worlds. Taken from images from Paramount’s original studio prop, this model comes with 2 sets of arms for multiple posing options, and it stands atop a detailed film logo display base.
Originally introduced in the pages of Lee and Kirby’s Thor comic, Hercules was intended to be a lighter and more jovial view of the mythological hero. Acting as a foil to the moody and stoic god of thunder, Hercules had a love for wine, women, song and fighting (in that order). After his introduction, it was thought that the character would make an interesting addition to the Avengers roster and the Olympian gained a strong fan following.
There have been numerous mini-series and short-run titles featuring Hercules, but the character really came into his own after he took over the Incredible Hulk monthly title (renaming it Incredible Hercules). Combining exciting superheroic action/adventure and mythology in each issue, the Incredible Hercules series was a fan favorite. The writing team of Greg Pak (Incredible Hulk, Planet Hulk, World War Hulk) and Fred Van Lente (Marvel Zombies 3, 4 and 5, X-Men Noir, Cowboys & Aliens) created an amazing monthly book that got people talking online and in stores. The death of Hercules followed by the Prince of Power mini-series and Chaos War (the final issue out this week) have catapulted this also-ran hero into cult fandom. I’m happy to see that Pak and Van Lente aren’t finished with old Herc yet!
Just because Chaos War is over doesn’t mean that your monthly fill of Hercules will be going away anytime soon. Marvel announced today the brand new ongoing series Herc, written by Chaos War scribes Greg Pak and Fred Van Lente, along with art by Neil Edwards.
“This ain’t the heavenly spires of Mount Olympus, the plush comforts of Avengers Tower or some hot night club known where the body shots are on the house. Herc’s in the dark alleys of the Marvel Universe—the mean streets of New York,” said Senior Editor Mark Paniccia. “There’s no one to watch his back and, if he doesn’t play it smart, he can be maimed…or even killed. The easy days of life as a god are over.”
Hercules is back to dish out some beatdowns to the criminal underworld; not exactly a place we’re used to seeing him. From tying in to Fear Itself to the grind of street level crime, it seems Pak and Van Lente are preparing to keep the character’s plate full for quite a while.
Herc #1 debuts on April 6, 2011, with Herc #2 following only two weeks later on the April 20.
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