Jace and Rocky from Comic Boom! discuss Tankers #1 and the wild and crazy story Robert Venditti is unfolding. Also a lot of discussion on just how insane the idea is on its merits and how no real scientist would buy into it. All that is incidental to just how much fun the issue is and how great the art suits the story. The guys also talk in detail abut Eniac #3. Lots of speculation on the motivations of the sentient computer and what it's end game may be. The guys also wonder if Olivia Fletcher may be the key to destroying Eniac through some secret maneuver her mother may have planned out years ago. The B-Side feature in the story is a reprint of the highly sought after Hero Trade and the guys talk about the insanity of the price of the individual book on the secondary market and how it can possibly be worth the price people are asking. Tons of great info in this episode so we hope you join us.
Jace and Manny talk about Star Wars War of the Bounty Hunters Prelude Alpha. This is the first part of the epic story that fills in some gaps in the Star Wars universe. Have you ever wondered what happened to Boba Fett after he left Cloud City on Bespin on his way to drop off Han Solo to Jabba the Hutt? Well the superstar creative team of Charles Soule, Steve McNiven & Laura Martin give us the first art of the answer in this issue. Action packed with incredible artwork, it's a perfect issue. Whether you have ever read a Star Wars comic or seen any of the movies, this issue is easily accessible and gives you everything you need to know to enjoy the ride. The guys also love how it adds to what we know about Boba Fett and his personality while feeling completely referential and accurate in terms of tone and Star Wars canon. A must-read for anyone who has seen or enjoyed the original Star Wars trilogy.
Jace is joined by John Jackson Miller of the Comichron website to discuss how comic sales are tracked. They also speculate on the future of sales tracking with all the current upheaval in the industry in terms of comic distribution. With literally decades of knowledge and a unique understanding of the sales in the industry over time John is perfectly suited to give some insight into why it is important to look at these circulation numbers. He also explains why, despite the further corporatization of the industry in recent years, publishers may very much be willing to share their sales numbers and even use them as a means of self promotion. This is a deep dive into the nuts and bolts of the comic industry and it's retailers so we hope you enjoy it.
Jace and Jay talk about a few of the books hitting stands this week. Spoiler-free thoughts on this titles so you know what you might want to pick up when you hit your local comic shop. Star Wars War of the Bounty Hunters has all the classic feel of the first three movies. Boba Fett really shines and it is clear that this creative team loves Star Wars as much as us. Batman #108 gives us our first in-depth look at Miracle Molly, but it is a look Jay doesn't really like as her costume just isn't doing it for him. Deep Beyond gets Jace's pick for Book of the Week as the story ratchets up with the introduction of a ton of new story elements that just dialed the narrative all the way up to eleven. Heroes Reborn while showing some potential feels a bit derivative and weirs, considering the way Marvel marketed this event, do they even care about it? Nocterra #3 is Jay's Book of the Week with incredible color work by Tomeu Morey and so much emotion. Jay and Jace both comment on how much we have become invested in these characters already based on the emotional narrative the creators are giving us. The artwork is also second to none as both guys specifically call out the amazing color work by Tomeu Morey. The Good Asian #1 also is an emotional issue as we meet the protagonist for the first time who has a foot in two different worlds but seems to be accepted by neither. Baby Teeth by Dony cates returns without missing a bit as we get a big reveal at the end that feels like it may be leading to the climax of the series. Speaking of returns, a few issues ago Jace mentioned that after a couple slow months Immortal Hulk felt like it had returned to its glory days and was ramping up to something big! Well after reading the latest issue we have an idea of just what the big event might be. Can't wait for the next issue. Also in this episode Jace gives a rundown on some other titles you might want to be on the lookout for at your comic shop this week.
Jace and Rocky from Comic Boom! take a look at the DC books for the week of May 4, 2021. Starting off with Suicide Squad #3 which Robbie Thompson brings the perfect amount of humor to, but we wonder if this issue wouldn't have been better served by coming out before Teen Titans Academy #2. Swamp Thing #3 continues to be a high quality title as Poison Ivy makes an appearance the art takes an even more lustrous turn with gorgeous colors. Crime Syndicate #3 gives is our first look at Alexander Luthor, but the guys wonder if the version still has some evolving to do. Green Lantern #2 has some of the most consequential events we have seen in a Lantern book in a long time, the only question is how long will these changes stick? Batman #108 gives our first in-depth look at Miracle Molly and she may be the most interesting of all the new characters we have seen debuting in this title over the last year. Finally the second issue of Batman Fortnite is tons of fun and fans of the video game will get even more out of it than those who haven't played it.
Jace chats with up and coming writer Kathryn Gailey about her current campaign for The Architect and The Conduit. It's a dual narrative telling the story of two distinct settings one rooted in magic and nature and the other a sci-fi marvel. Kathryn has teamed up with veteran DC artist Brian Ching to bring this world to life.
Jace and Jay talk about a few of the books they have read from the week of April 28, 2021. They both choose Shadecraft #2 as their Book of the Week as the second issue gives us a big chunk of story and really highlights the relationship between Zadie and her brother Ricky. This creative team pulled us in with a compelling and mysterious premise in the first issue and now they are giving us substantial characterization and momentum for the narrative to keep is hooked. Summoner War Legacy is a mix of animation style art with RPG themes and really works as a fun read with a world to be explored. Meanwhile Two Moons #3 gives us more spectacular art with some interesting characters in a period piece that makes so much sense. Shadowman #1 starts a new adventure for Jack Boniface and it feels like a fresh start, whether it will ultimately work remains to be seen. Shadow Doctor #3 has us exploring the past of Nathaniel while he deals with a crisis in the present wherein his decisions have everything to do with what he is learning in those past glimpses we see. Nuclear Family #3 gives us our first close look at the McClean children who are not waiting around to be rescued but instead are trying to find the answers to where they are and the time travel mystery they have been thrown into. Over in Department of Truth #8, after having spent the last few issues exploring the origins of the department, we are back on to the main narrative and building momentum for something big. Also Jace gives a rundown on what other titles you might want to be on the lookout for today.
Jace and Rocky from the Comic Boom YouTube channel talk in depth about the DC Comics releases for the week of April 27, 2021. Action Comics #1030 feels more like a Superman comic that the book has in awhile and we hope it continues to have this feel despite the fact that the Jon Kent storyline continues to be problematic. Harley Quinn #2 is a bit frustrating for jace because of the dual narrative of Hugo Strange's elevation as well as the continuing progression toward the Magistrate, Rocky felt that the strength of Harley's characterization helped to overcome these problems. Meanwhile Batman Back & White had some of the best art for the series so far, even though all the stories aren't exactly page turners. Detective Comics leans to much on tropes of Batman stories from the past, but the art is top notch. Robin #1 was a pleasant surprise and Jace in particular hopes DC has the guts to lean into the ending of the issue and really shake up the status quo. Teen Titans academy #2 is also a step in the right direction though the heavy-handedness of the Red X storyline as well as the tease for the guest appearances for next issue were a bit disappointing. Finally Batman Superman #17 continues to be one of, if not THE best comic DC is putting out, from the spectacular artwork to the interesting narrative this comic is just FUN!
Jace welcomes writer Christopher Cantwell back to the show to talk about his upcoming Vault series The Blue Flame. This new series will explore some big ideas with dual storylines set in the down to earth city of Milwaukee and the far reaches of space. Starting from the premise that any hero and certainly a 'super'hero is inherently setting themselves up for failure through the simple fact that they can't be everything and everywhere for everyone. That idea is can then be distilled down and applied to all of us as we live our lives and try to make positive contributions to the world. The guys also chat a bit about Christopher's current Iron Man run, a tease for the return of She Could Fly and more. Join us for this fun and engaging conversation.
Jace and Rocky of 'Comic Boom' discuss the latest DC news. Tom Taylor is the new writer on Superman: Son of Kal-el with artists John Timms. Grant Morrison is the writer for Superman and the Authority with artist Mikal Janin. Tom Sheridan returns as the writer for a 4 issue Shazam series. Tom King writes Supergirl: Woman of Tomorrow. And we can't forget to mention Dan Jurgens returning to the character he created, Booster Gold in an 8 issue series with Blue Beetle titles appropriately, Blue and Bold! We also discuss the Final Four titles that have survived the DC Round Robin; namely, Green Lanterns: Underworld on Fire, Robins, Blue Beetle: Graduation Day and Suicide Squad Seven.
Jace welcomes creator Mathew Groom back to the show. The guys chat about Mat's current Kickstarter campaign that has already funded for Inferno Girl Red. From the inspirations, to the creative team and all the world building in between, Mat let's us get a peek behind the scenes on the development of the project and why many of the creative decisions went one particular direction or another. He talks in depth about the motivations and characterizations not just of Inferno Girl Red aka Cassia Costa, but also about the supporting cast, including Cassia's mother. They also touch on some of the rewards that are being offered, including a life-size wearable Inferno Girl Red helmet! Mat let's us know about the stretch goals and takes about his hopes for the character long term. There is a lot to unpack here and there is already a great Inferno Girl Red community that has sprung up around this Kickstarter, so be sure and give the episode a listen, go check out the campaign and pledge so you can join the fun.
Jace chats with writer Arvind David about his most recent project Gray. A re-imagining for modern times of the classic Oscar Wilde story of The Picture of Dorian Gray. This conversation goes in depth and behind the scenes on the impetus behind Arvind bringing this story to life for a new generation. There is also much discussion about representation and the choice t make this Dorian Gray a woman. Arvind speaks desire to bring as many female voices onto the project as possible. Plus Jace and Arvind discuss the artwork and look of the world for the graphic novels. One of the most exciting aspects of this story is the third part of the story which will be an audio drama that ties into the two graphic novels. A superb voice cast will bring that part of the campaign to life and answer some lingering questions purposely left by the narrative of the books. This is a very in depth conversation with a versatile, thoughtful creator that is perfect for a nice relaxing listen with a glass of your favorite wine or cocktail. So be sure to take your time, soak it in and go check out the campaign for Gray.
Jace and Jay take a spoiler-free look at some of the titles hitting stands the week of April 20, 2021. Aliens #2 gives us plenty of action and all the gory goodness you would expect from a good Aliens story. HaHa #4 is sufficiently strange and weird with a double narrative. Post Americana #5 get a little into the clichés of post-apocalyptic tales, but we still expect good things to come. Knock 'Em Dead #4 takes a big leap forward in the narrative but still lands with weight and we loved it. Way of X #1 brings some very heavy philosophical questions about life, death, resurrection, religion and the very fabric of mutant society, plus the return of a classic X-character. Spider-Woman #11 sees Jessica return to her classic costume and we absolutely love it, it is also a bit of a return to the status quo for Jess and a perfect jumping on point for new readers. Captain Marvel #28 continues the incredible run of Kelly Thompson on the character as Carol continues to search for a solution to the horrific possible future timeline she has recently returned from. Stray Dogs #3 ends in such a way that it really hit home with Jay and he cant' wait for issue #4 and gives issue his Book of the Week. Meanwhile for Jace, Radiant Black #3 is the best issue of the series so far as we see the most human side yet of Nathan and all creative types everywhere can probably relate to his struggles. Jace also gives a rundown on some of the other titles you might want to be on the lookout for.
Jace and Rocky talk about the DC books for the week of April 20, 2021. Justice League and Flash give us the second issues of those story arcs and still feel like they are setting things up for their respective storylines. Nightwing #79 is also a second issue and although not as weighty as the first, still has more emotion and weight than the two previously mentioned titles. Catwoman had the guys split, Jace also felt like this was a setup issue although very well done. Rocky really liked it, appreciating it's technical aspects as well as it's compelling narrative and characterizations. Both of the guys felt that Superman Red & Blue was just ok while wondering if the limited palate is actually hurting some of the stories. Finally Batman Fortnite Zeropoint was an interesting start that the guys enjoyed despite their limited knowledge of the ubiquitous video game. We sure hope it pulls in some Fortnite players and converts them into comic readers.
Jace and Rocky battle through another Bad Idea takeover to chat about Eniac #2. The story is still superb, but the guys wonder what twists may be on the way. The action is non-stop just like the first issue, but the second issue didn't feel quite as weighty as the first issue. Not to say there isn't a lot here, because it is still top notch storytelling. Is it the emotional beats that Eniac seems to have? Is it that we haven't had a chance to catch our breath as the two super spies, Olivia Fletcher and Allison Falk are seemingly three steps behind Eniac despite their best efforts? Hard to say, but we do love where the story is going and try to predict where things might be heading. Plus we get a B-Side that is truly engaging, compelling and mysterious. Can't wait to see more of it!
Jace chats with comic creator Benjamin Morse about his current Kickstarter campaign for We Are Scarlet Twilight. This golden age comic inspired title is about Captain Lancet who is inspired by many classic comic superheroes as well as characters like Buck Rogers & Flash Gordon. Jace and Ben talk about the creative process that Ben uses in his work goign from script to visuals and especially the challenge of matching color with the right story beats. Plus lots of talk about story design, Kickstarter logistics and even aprons! This a a really fun conversation about a highly-anticipated project that is already fully funded.
Jace and Jay take about a ton of books hitting comic shops this week. Black Cat from Marvel continues to bring Felicia Hardy back to her roots, likewise Iron Man is doing the same not only for Tony Stark, but also for Patsy Walker. Fantastic Four is a King in Black Tie-In, but it doesn't seem like the creative team likes that fact, though they do seem to plant some seeds for some future family drama. Wolverine is an action paced issue continuing the vampire story running throughout the x-titles, plus ... have you ever wondered what would happen if a mosquito bit Wolverine? Daredevil is another stellar issue as this creative team feels like they are building to something really big. Maestro War & Pax #4 is a bit predictable, but the action, although expected, still pays off. Meanwhile both Iron Fist & Children of the Atom show the heroism of their respective characters in different ways, but some upcoming revelations in both titles threaten to throw everything into chaos. Scumbag feels like it has lost its way in recent issues on this week's issue is no exception, but the ending gives a glimmer of hope that the humorous debauchery may be about to return. The next to last issue of American Vampire ever, reminds us of the flexibility of the world Snyder and Albuquerque have built. Finally we have three excellent titles from AfterShock, Maniac of New York #3 has an incredibly impactful moment at the end but also has us wondering if our two female protagonists have what it takes to stop Harry. Undone By Blood #2 hasn't quite pulled us in yet because we just don't know Silvie well enough. Scout's Honor #4 set up the final issue for what we expect will be more tightly paced all out action, just as this title has delivered with every issue so far. All this plus Jace gives a rundown on some other titles you may want to be on the lookout for.
Jace chats with Olivia Cuartero-Briggs about her upcoming title from AfterShock, Silver City. When a young woman dies and finds herself in the afterlife it seems remarkably like, life ... kidnappings, bars, dogs ... it's all there! So what is this world Olivia has created and how did she come up with the idea? We also chat about the idea of us all wanting our lives to have meaning and taking it one step further to the idea that each of us individually wants to believe our lives have a "grand purpose". Additionally, Olivia gives us some insight into her collaboration with artist Luca Merli and how well that has gone. Also tons of talk about character and how Silver City is a character in and of itself. This is a fascinating concept and one that Olivia has been working on for a long time. So listen in for all the details and remember, Final Order Cut-Off is 4-19 so be sure to let your retailer know to order you a copy!
Jace and Rocky are back with another week of DC titles. After a few weeks where the guys were not impressed, DC comes roaring back. Joker #2 is a particular highlight as the relationship between Jim Gordon and Batman is explored. Going even further than that is the revelation of what Jim knows about Barbara and how their relationship is explored, great stuff. Sticking with Batman titles the second issue if the Batman Urban Legends anthology picks up right were #1 left off and we enjoyed it just as much. The Red Hood & Grifter stories are just tone perfect with solid art. Tom Taylor's first Batman: The Detective issue was just as great as we expected though the guys disagreed a bit on the Andy Kubert artwork. Superman was the one disappointing book this week, it's not working for either Jace or Rocky at this point. Wonder Woman continues to delight as other ideas and myths beyond Greek mythology are woven into the story. Finally, Rorschach #7 caused a bit of a stir between the guys as they didn't see eye to eye on the big appearance in the book. Be sure to listen in to see whose side you are on!
Jace chats with writer Robert Venditti. They go into detail about the wild over-the-top first issue of Bad Idea's Tankers. A non-stop action-filled time travel story with dinosaurs? Yep you bet! Rob talks about how different the story is from anything he has done before. He also discuss working with Juan Jose Ryp and Andrew Dalhouse. They guys also talk about Rob returning home, so to speak, by reuniting with many of the people he worked with at Valiant when that publisher relaunched in 2012. There's some talk about the B-Side story in Tankers #1 also, plus Rob's got a lot of other ideas in development at Bad Ideas as well. Finally, Jace asks about Rob's current DC project, Superman '78, coming in July. We know it is a passion project for Rob and he talks a bit about he didn't dare to dream about telling Superman stories in this setting. All this and more so join us as Bad Idea takes us over again!
Jace chats with creator Jon Dexter about his current Kickstarter campaign for Alpha Dogs. It's dogs with superpowers while at the same time exploring the relationship between a bog and his owner. Lots to explore her, Jon describes it as The Incredible Journey meets Lost. So if you love dogs or just an action-packed story with an intriguing narrative, be sure to go and check out the campaign and see what Alpha Dogs is all about.
Jace chats with creators Pornsak Pichetshote & Alexandre Tefenkgi about their upcoming Image title The Good Asian. Exploring themes of belonging, heritage and loyalty against the backdrop of the tumultuous 1930's in San Francisco's Chinatown. This is a hard-boiled detective story inspired by the pulp stories of the era and these two creators have drawn from their own personal experiencing to craft a compelling story in a richly detailed world. This will be a book a lot of people will be talking about when it hits comic shops so pre-order now, Final Order Cut-Off is April 14, 2021
Jace takes a look at our first X-Men book of the new era Not written by Jonathan Hickman. Marauders is giving us the story of Kitty Pryde and how here team will be the go to for any rescue missions that need tp be undertaken to ensure that any mutant who is being prevented from traveling to Krakoa has the right to. Plus we have the mystery of why Kitty herself cannot use the gates that Krakoa has planted around the world. Its a high stakes and important mission, but the creative team injects good humor and light-heartedness through out for a pitch-perfect mix.
Jace talks about a few of the books you might want to check out for the week of April 7. 2021. Tons of highly anticipated books hitting comic shops this week, starting with Tankers #1 & Eniac #2 form Bad Idea. Also Geiger finally makes it's debut at Image with some incredible art an in interesting start to the narrative taking place over several separate timelines. The second issue of Nocterra expertly builds upon the first with more emotion and some incredible action with the best work we've seen from Tony Daniel. Steve Orlando has two titles out today and both are very much worth your time, Commanders in Crisis continues with wild concepts, great Davide Tinto art and reminds us how fun comics can be, while Project Patron launches us into an emotionally complex situation with a cast of characters who, although they are a team, feel very much like individuals who may or may not be able to rely on each other and the relationships dynamics of the team when disaster strikes. Speaking of disasters, Deep Beyond is channeling the feel of a classic disaster film like The Poseidon Adventure as our cast of characters continue to search for the missing scientist while the threat of death from any number of underwater threats is constant. Finally Miles to Go continues to impress, this is the most action-packed and tightly paced issue yet, with only one issue left, how is this all going to wrap up? We have no idea, but we can't wait to find out. All this plus Jace gives a rundown on other titles you might want to be on the lookout for.
Jace and Rocky are back to talk about the DC titles from April 6, 2021. Be warned they talk in-depth and there are spoilers. They kick it off with Crime Syndicate #2 and it has some good things going for it, but it may work better for some than others. The same can be said for Batman #107 but that has a lot to do with what we saw in Future State. Suicide Squad continues to be very good and on the strength of #2 both guys are in on issue #3 for sure. The most divisive title of the episode is Green Lantern #1 which one of the guys enjoyed and the other most certainly did not, it will be interesting to get fan reaction on this one. Meanwhile Swamp Thing continues to be a technically stellar comic that will likely satisfy long-time fans of the character with the narrative in Issue #2. Finally we finish up with Joker/Harley Criminal Sanity #8 as this incredible series heads towards its conclusion the guys speculate on whether this may go down as a definitive run of Harley.