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second by tettleys	Feb 6th, 2008 08:06:36 AM
hey im second hello to all in sunderland england
I wish I had Amazing Friends. by rev_skarekroe	Feb 6th, 2008 08:22:16 AM
Instead of the kind that "forget" to invite me to their birthday parties. I'm so lonely.
The ASBAR review borders on delusional by Laserhead	Feb 6th, 2008 08:22:27 AM
Quotes from the review: "I believe all this will be..." "I believe Miller is going to suggest..." "I believe Miller is setting the stage..." The whole thing recommends the book based on the reviewer's wishful thinking of what he hopes will happen in the future, backed up by some extremely spurious psychological analysis of a character that's written too flat to warrant such analysis. And let's not forget, in this supposed 'Miller-continuity', where Dick Grayson ends up (Dark Knight Strikes Again). It's a fairly groundless effort to put a positive spin on this debacle, but it's based entirely on supposition about the future. Frank Miller has blown his mind on cocaine and ego. He hasn't written something truly good since the very first Sin City, in my opinion, but even if you care to argue that (and I can see that argument being made), ASBAR is going to need a better, more cogent defense before it can be seen as anything other than a contemptuous, ugly failure.
Stop flipping the turtle on its back. by stones_throw	Feb 6th, 2008 08:30:02 AM
I think the proof that ASBAR is a bad book is that its fans will go to incredibly extreme lengths to rationalize why it is actually good. "Maybe Frank Miller's making it INTENTIONALLY bad, so..." Please, just leave the poor thing alone. The only thing Miller's laughing at are the fans who are continuing to buy and are actually defending what is basically his excuse to get a bigger pay check from DC each month.
CAP and ULT SPIDEY by Blanket-Man	Feb 6th, 2008 08:31:54 AM
Both awesome reads this week. I've loved Bru's CAP since the get-go, but USM has kind of spun its wheels lately. This was the first issue in a long time that was just FUN from start to finish.
SCUD! by BanAllFIRSTPosters	Feb 6th, 2008 08:48:43 AM
I can't wait for the collection. I wonder if it will have the Drywall one-shot?
Project: Superpowers #0 by MisterE	Feb 6th, 2008 08:49:25 AM
I wasn't planning on buying Project Superpowers, but there wasn't anything in my box at the comic shop last week and so I picked up a copy. I liked it a lot more than I expected. And, there is a LOT of story in this issue for it to be a #0.
SCUD will contain the Drywall issue... by stones_throw	Feb 6th, 2008 08:50:55 AM
At least, so I'm told.
Superpowers 0 by optimous_douche	Feb 6th, 2008 08:53:10 AM
I was leery of this book myself, after Justice. I didn't hate Justice, but it was just confusing enough to feel like Claremont was writing it. I'm glad I bit the bullet.
Superpowers by rock-me Amodeo	Feb 6th, 2008 09:09:31 AM
I enjoyed this, too. I was leary going in, and apprehensive when I found some editing mistakes early on (for example, in the tent scene, the dialog that starts with "You're wrong, Yank..." should be coming from Skull-n-Crossbones guy, not the general. That would make his next line "I'm afraid..." more logical.) Still, it was A LOT to pack into an issue, and I had 50% of a mind to do a review myself if you hadn't. Nice job, BTW.
ASB&R Review is Crap by krylyyk	Feb 6th, 2008 09:14:23 AM
That review says the book is amazing because of where it may someday be going?? Thats retarded. Thats like saying Attack of the Clones is good because you know its setting up events for Empire Strikes Back... Review the book, not your imagined ideas of conclusions that might be wrong.
Superpowers by verge	Feb 6th, 2008 09:21:26 AM
I was really impressed with Superpowers #0. I personally love most of Ross and Krueger's stuff but Justice really just confused me for the most part. I kept feeling like they were skipping small things that I guess were obvious but I didn't get them. That said, however, Superpowers was pretty incredible and I really look forward to the series.
Humphrey, It's Christopher REEVE - NO 'S' by RedBeard1701	Feb 6th, 2008 09:28:28 AM
If you don't know that you shouldn't be reviewing comics and certainly have no business being on AICN
I think I see a pattern here. by C.K. Lamoo	Feb 6th, 2008 09:41:31 AM
The less action in your comic the better the AICN revue.
Wow, two in a row! by stones_throw	Feb 6th, 2008 09:43:06 AM
Gotta love the guys who spot a typo or know some obscure piece of trivia and then discount anything else the writer might say. Good luck to ya, guys.
Note on previous talkback: by stones_throw	Feb 6th, 2008 09:46:03 AM
My comment does not include CK Lamoo, of whom, in fairness, I am not entirely sure what he is saying.
I try to like all incarnations of Batman... by blindambition238	Feb 6th, 2008 09:48:11 AM
.. elseworlds otherwise. However the only way I can enjoy All Star Batman is as a parody, otherwise the whole thing reads like Frank Miller is trying to do an impression of Frank Miller in his prime but failing horribly.
Oh, I see what we have here... by stones_throw	Feb 6th, 2008 09:56:11 AM
A troll. How exciting. Jeff, who's trying to pretend my opinion is worth anything? I don't know, I assume you're getting paid though, since I can't see any other reason a rational person would hang around somewhere they didn't like just to post snarky critiques to complete strangers. Me, I'm just trying to find a way out of the @$$hole Clubhouse, which they tell me will happen when I break 500,000 words. Until then, enjoy the ride, bucko!
The Black Terror by rock-me Amodeo	Feb 6th, 2008 10:05:40 AM
Cool. Truthfully, I was too lazy to go through the whole comic again just to post a comment. Thanks.
Uhm... by rock-me Amodeo	Feb 6th, 2008 10:10:39 AM
I think you have me confused with someone else. Enjoy the show.
I didn't even write the review, Jeff... by stones_throw	Feb 6th, 2008 10:11:28 AM
But thanks to Alan Moore's TOM STRONG, I am familiar with the Black Terror and his sidekick Tim. Some of the best issues of TOM STRONG for me, in which Tom ends up on the parallel world of Terra Obscura after his double Tom Strange (aka the Golden Age character Doc Strange) runs across the universe to get a message to him. Naturally, they fight, then team up to take down the aliens that have colonized Tom Strange's world and placed all the other heroes in suspended animation around Earth's orbit. I haven't read PROJECT SUPERPOWERS (which is using many of the out of copyright characters Moore revived in those issues) but it sounds interesting and I liked Optimus' review.
Those Tom Strong issues were great by Laserhead	Feb 6th, 2008 10:13:56 AM
So were the Terra Obscura miniseries, but in those the character was just called 'The Terror.' I thought Alan Moore owned the rights to all those guys now. Is the guy with the boomerangs on the center of the cover the original Daredevil? I thought I recognized him from that old Jeff Rovin Encyclopedia of Super Heroes.
People often confuse Stoney and me... by rock-me Amodeo	Feb 6th, 2008 10:14:24 AM
...due to our incredibly similar good looks, and our penchant for fast women and fast cars. But we are actually two different people, despite the fact that we have never been photographed together.
Hey Jeff, since you like correcting people... by raw_bean	Feb 6th, 2008 10:17:41 AM
...I should point out that it wasn't rock-me Amodeo (it was stones_throw) who 'freaked out' or called you a troll. Remember this moment next time you nitpick folks' mistakes and act like a sanctimonious arsehole.
Of course I just had to... by raw_bean	Feb 6th, 2008 10:20:29 AM
...leave it too late to say that and make myself look like a tool in the bargain. sigh It's been one of those days.
What the hell are you people arguing about? by rev_skarekroe	Feb 6th, 2008 10:30:40 AM
Isn't this the comics talkback?
Talkback - Dan Dare #3 by rock-me Amodeo	Feb 6th, 2008 10:42:05 AM
Why, yes, this IS a talkback! So let's switch gears, now that we're done with all that: has anyone been picking up Ennis' DAN DARE? I wanted to review it, but I ran out of time. If it didn't have Ennis' name at the top, I would never have guessed it was hi writing it. I think he's doing an abso-bloody-lutely brilliant job on this book.
I Like The Way They Called Me A Troll @ CBR by Buzz Maverik	Feb 6th, 2008 10:56:33 AM
This guy quotes my post in which I suggested that this other guy and I agree to disagree, then he posts this huge, elaborate picture of a troll in a swamp that was both hideous and beautiful at the same time. I told the guy that if it was his own artwork, he was very talented but I had to take exception with him saying I was a troll because I was only on the boards for my own amusement. I had to ask if he was there for the betterment of all mankind. Anyway, I think that we oughta figure out a way to add really cool artwork whenever we call someone a troll. Like, "Hey, Buzz, yer a troll, man, and here's a download of the flying stone trolls from TALES O' ASGARD by Jack Kirby, so you can see the artfully rendered thing that you are!"
Well, you know what they say..."One man's troll... by rock-me Amodeo	Feb 6th, 2008 10:59:30 AM
...is another man's @$$hole." Or something like that.
Things Have Changed So Much Since I Reviewed by Buzz Maverik	Feb 6th, 2008 11:00:00 AM
Back in the Olden Days, we @$$holes criticized comics for lack of action and the talbackers criticized us for not being smart. I gotta admit, I like the Skulls'n'Crossbonesy guy line. Once, I really cheesed the DC congregation off by stating that I skipped several pages of SUPERMAN VS. DARKSEID because they looked stupid.
superpowers by blackthought	Feb 6th, 2008 11:03:26 AM
seems very promising...sweet tom strong mention in the TB, that is a such a good diversion...i'm going to miss that book when its all over.
the ASB&R review.... by Darth_Valinorean	Feb 6th, 2008 11:03:48 AM
BRILLIANT.
the second poster... by blackthought	Feb 6th, 2008 11:04:21 AM
are you getting relegated or not? or do you not support the black cats?
Super-Duper Man... by loodabagel	Feb 6th, 2008 11:08:36 AM
Here's a story... I recently found a copy of that "Death of Super-Man" story everybody loved so much. It was only 3 bucks, so I picked it up. Man, that shit sucked. I don't know what you guys were up to in 1995...
ASBAR... by loodabagel	Feb 6th, 2008 11:10:50 AM
Can be enjoyed for it's subtle and classy moments of brilliance, like Batgirl's hard drinking pregnant mom and Batman dry-humping Black Canary while people burn to death.
Blackthought... by rock-me Amodeo	Feb 6th, 2008 11:23:39 AM
I think the Wearsiders moved the Cats out of the drop-zone last week. Prica made the difference.
meant to say... by rock-me Amodeo	Feb 6th, 2008 11:32:26 AM
"...Wearsiders have moved out of..."
Troll pics by rev_skarekroe	Feb 6th, 2008 11:34:50 AM
I highly recommend the work of Theodor Kittelsen if you want to post troll pics when calling someone a troll. They make fine desktop images as well.
Daredevil torture... by maxwell's hammer	Feb 6th, 2008 11:35:02 AM
I know this is probably a small distinction, but I think its worth making. Matt didn't torture Ox with the blowtorch. He let Ox see the blowtorch, then proceeded to make Ox feel like he was being burned by applying pressure to specific pressure points. He left the blowtorch running so Ox would hear it and think he was being seriously burned. So Matt still used pain to get Ox to talk, but somehow, the way he did it felt a little less evil than actually torching him.
Sorry, Maxwell, but... by stones_throw	Feb 6th, 2008 11:46:32 AM
My copy of DD made it look like Daredevil first torched the Ox, then started working him over using pressure points. But either way, I think a line was crossed--one of way too many for my liking in this story. Brubaker and Lark are trying to make us feel the danger and stakes at risk but they're going way beyond the generally family-friendly tone of the MU. Anyway, I looked thru that PROJECT SUPERPOWERS review and I can't even see that "Skulls and Crossbones guy" line. Am I just crazy? Also, I'm not sure where this "@$$holes like action-lite books" came from. Have any of you read SCUD? If there was any more mayhem squeezed on those pages the book would explode. Otherwise, I reviewed DD (quite a few action scenes) and THE SPIRIT, which featured 3 action-packed shorts. Also reviewed were Cap, THE INITIATIVE, ASBAR and SUPERPOWERS, not all of which I have read, but hardly seem like dirges. Am I missing something?
Oh right... by stones_throw	Feb 6th, 2008 11:49:44 AM
Rock-me Amodeo said it. Well, now I feel silly. This talkback is too much.
Daredevil... by loodabagel	Feb 6th, 2008 11:58:22 AM
I have to agree with the original review. I'm not usually one to get into what is and isn't out of character, but this has gone on for about long enough. There's only one ussue left in this arc though, so hopefully things should shape up in no time. Not that there won't be repurcussions for DD's actions, but I trust Brubaker and Lark to pull things off. One problem I do have with the review is that it points out the terrible violence DD is exposing the kids to, but what about *Spoiler* The Hood shooting two people in the head? I remember about a year or so ago when there were graphic panels of people with saw blades in their backs. All Marvel does is change the color of the blood from red to black and call it good. I also recall a lot of beheadings in the the old Bendis/Maleev era. Daredevil has been one of their most consistently gory, violent books being published.
Thanks for the Cap love! by GiggityGoo	Feb 6th, 2008 12:06:37 PM
I'm so glad to read a review of Cap these days that still understands the greatness that Brubaker and Epting are crafting. I've been seeing some semi-flak over the last months... people complaining about the length of time the Skull's plan is taking, stuff like that. But I have to say, as a Cap reader for the last 30 years, that this three-year run has been the most exciting time on the book since Waid & Garney took over in the mid-90s. It makes me sad to think that these creators will have to leave the book at some point... I'd love to see them challenge Stan's & Jack's tenure on Fantastic Four. I can't wait to see where Bru takes "Cap" next. But they'd better not bring Cap back through some dumb-ass time warp or Mephisto kludge...
Looda by stones_throw	Feb 6th, 2008 12:13:01 PM
I did try to address that there was other stuff that was going on that is probably too intense for DAREDEVIL monthly, but yeah, the review was mostly focused on the stuff with the actual DD character. The on-panel shooting people in the head did stand out to me too but somehow I forgot to mention it in the review. Ah well. Anyway, I suspect this will all be down to Mr. Fear and toxins, but that's not quite a satisfactory resolution. Mind control stories generally suck anyway.
I dunno, Giggity Goo... by stones_throw	Feb 6th, 2008 12:17:32 PM
The Red Skull and Zola seem to be working on somehing to do with time travel (Dr. Doom was called in for a favor a few months back too, probably to pay the Skull back for when he last borrowed his lawnmower). Plus there's still cosmic cubes in the background. Anyway, as I commented a few months back, I hope Brubaker does have the return of Steve Rogers written in, as he's coming back eventually and this story is so good I wouldn't want to see it over-written by a ret-con down the line.
Daredevil has a wife now?... by Kid Z	Feb 6th, 2008 12:31:11 PM
...Does Jose Q know about this? Mephisto's even now having his lawyer's write up a new "Your Everlasting Soul Contract" for round 2, I'll bet... arrrrgh!
ASBAR Trade Paperback? by mithrandir16	Feb 6th, 2008 12:52:16 PM
Is the ASBAR review just reviewing the series so far, or is a trade paperback coming soon? Amazon says volume 1 TP isn't due until June. Anyone know? I bought the 8th issue in this series basically just because of the cover, and I'm interested in checking out the rest.
Interesting take on ASBM&R... by CaptainCosmos	Feb 6th, 2008 01:14:46 PM
...well reasoned and all that, but it just does not make up for an unfocused, un-entertaining and unsatisfying read. The only reason I'm reading this is because of Lee's art. But I doubt I'll continue to shell out more $ past issue 10. Luckily that probably won't be till 2011, so I've got time to make up my mind.
new scud video by seabiscuits	Feb 6th, 2008 01:15:34 PM
http://tinyurl.com/yt454w scud info
ASBAR Trade by barking_frog	Feb 6th, 2008 01:37:41 PM
mithrandir16, according to dccomics.com there'll be a hardcover trade out in June covering #1-9
I'm still waiting for Ultimate Mysterio by drewlicious	Feb 6th, 2008 01:41:49 PM
I know they had a joke a few years ago but come on. I want the master of illusions to have his chance in spotlight. And speaking of illusions, what about Ultimate Chameleon? You can skip Hydro-Man. Not really that interesting looking a villain. God, it took ultimate X-Men years to finally give us Apocalypse.
Re: Ultimate Mysterio by blindambition238	Feb 6th, 2008 01:48:23 PM
I would be really happy if they made him into a super bitter George Lucas or Michael Bay.
ASBAR and Year One by mtoast	Feb 6th, 2008 01:53:28 PM
How does the Batman in Year One become the character in ASBAR so quickly. The Year One Batman was a driven but compassionate man. He even saved the damn cat from the SWAT team. The ASBAR character is a vicious psychopath. Since ASBAR also happens in the early stage of Batman's career, there couldn't be more than a few years between the stories. I simply fail to see how the guy could change from one to the other. I even have a hard time believing the Year One Batman is the same guy we see in DKR, but at least there's 25 years in between those two stories.
ASBAR is crap pure and simple by Zardoz	Feb 6th, 2008 02:25:50 PM
When I take a truly stinky shit in the toilet I don't find it necessary to defend what I ate that caused it...ASBAR is that bad!
re: ASBAR and Year One by barking_frog	Feb 6th, 2008 02:27:07 PM
mtoast, to borrow from Moore's THE KILLING JOKE, maybe he had a bad day. I've been thinking Miller might just be suggesting a gradual wear-down... we ARE talking about the effects of cumulative lack of sleep over a couple years on a man who thinks dressing up like a bat and fighting crime sounds like a good idea to begin with. But your questions also raises the possibility in my mind -- pure conjecture -- that Miller might have some specifics that he intends to reveal later on in ASB&R.
I know how... by loodabagel	Feb 6th, 2008 02:28:10 PM
The guy writing the comics is now a crazy, delusioned shell of his former self. Simple as that.
The last man by aversiontherapy2	Feb 6th, 2008 02:29:07 PM
I agree wholeheartedly with your assessment of Y: The Last Man, a stunning achievement that the last issue wrapped up in a beautiful but melancholy bow. I think I stared at the page you're talking about with Ampersand for about ten minutes, so beautiful and affecting it was. One of the best.
"I'm the Goddamn Batman!" by critch	Feb 6th, 2008 02:30:34 PM
ASBAR is the same as AS Superman. Completely out of any kind of continuity, including Miller's own. The difference is that Superman is well written and great to read. Batman is the worst written incarnation of the character I've ever seen, INCLUDING the fourth movie. You can make every point in the world about how it supposedly links up with his other works, and all that has to be said to shoot that down is: "I'm the Goddamn Batman!"
However... by loodabagel	Feb 6th, 2008 02:31:59 PM
If Miller really did turn things around and show us where he's going with it and the later issues explain these first eight... Then I might see appeal in the book... Maybe...
BKV... by loodabagel	Feb 6th, 2008 02:33:16 PM
Seriously, his dick's been sucked dry by now. Somebody say something bad about Y-The Last Man so I can shit down your throat.
So The Red Skull Is Behind The SubPrime Mess and Recession? by LaserPants	Feb 6th, 2008 03:14:40 PM
I've been enjoying Brubaker's run on Cap, but this plot detail -- Red Skull behind the subprime mortgage mess, rising oil prices, and the recession -- is just retarded. Unless, of course, it turns out that the Red Skull is actually Dick Cheney in diguise, then it makes total sense.
Brubaker's DAREDEVIL Is Fantastic by LaserPants	Feb 6th, 2008 03:18:31 PM
I'd even go so far as to say that his current work represents the best Daredevil stories ever. I'm totally immersed with the characters, feel moved/saddened by whats going on with Milla, and LOVE Matt going all Hostel on his enemy and torturing him in some dank warehouse. Fuckin' awesome. Really loving what Brubaker is doing here, and I love the realistic artwork too. Also glad that Daredevil seems almost totally removed from the rest of the Marvel U.
re: "I'm the Goddamn Batman!" by barking_frog	Feb 6th, 2008 03:26:49 PM
Just to clarify, while All Star Superman is set in an entirely independent continuity, ASB&R is not. ASB&R is not mainstream DC continuity, but Miller has indicated in at least one interview (with Matt Brady of Newsarama.com) that it fits into the same continuity as DKR, YEAR ONE, etc. -- basically the "Frank Miller Batman" continuity. (Incidentally, the one place where Miller's continuity and the mainstream DCU continuity overlap is in YEAR ONE.)
Frank Miller... by expert_40	Feb 6th, 2008 03:35:09 PM
... is Buddy "Aces" Isreal in that shitastic movie, "Smoking Aces." He's coke-out, whore-chaser who has become a retarded and sad parody of the great writer he once was. ASB&R is PROOF of this happening. There is no greater meaning, Barking Frog. And you're a fucking idiot for trying to make logical sense out of a coke-head's egotistical delusions. I agree with everyone who has half a brain who says this is the absolute WORST interpretation of Batman in the history of history. And yes, the steaming turd that is ASB&R is WORSE than the gaygasm that was Batman & Robin. Barking Frog... you're a fucking PLANT.
Stones_Throw: Time travel in Cap by GiggityGoo	Feb 6th, 2008 03:59:59 PM
Stoney (may I call you Stoney?), I picked up on that time travel tease when Bru first brought it up. I guess my apprehension is due to that miniseries/event I read about on Newsarama several months back... apparently there's some big "Invaders coming to the present" storyline somewhere down the pike, and it seems like they might use that to bring the original Steve Rogers back into modern time... and that bugs me, for some reason. I guess I want the Steve Rogers I've been reading for years, not the green recruit from the 40s.
But I liked SMOKIN' ACES. by SleazyG.	Feb 6th, 2008 04:05:25 PM
And frankly, I'm tired of the words "cokeheaded skirt-chaser" and "coke whore" and so on being used in a derogatory manner. I think ASBAR is garbage through and through...but when this column came our way and presented a well written, insightful defense of it I felt it was important to include. It's good to get a different perspective sometimes, folks. Even if you disagree with it, it can help you more clearly understand and express why you disagree with it. So no: not a plant, not an idiot--just somebody who sees things much differently than many of us. Where I see a huge pile of crap, he sees fertilizer. I think it's trash, he thinks it's mulch. But that's...okay. Really. Diversity is a good thing, people.
Which of the A$$HOLES made the quote by seppukudkurosawa	Feb 6th, 2008 04:24:11 PM
that got onto the cover of the second issue of Y:The Last Man (at least I think it was the second issue)?
SleazyG by LaserPants	Feb 6th, 2008 04:32:32 PM
"And frankly, I'm tired of the words "cokeheaded skirt-chaser" and "coke whore" and so on being used in a derogatory manner." ,br> Haha! Well said, sir! Whats wrong with a little coke and womanizing? Everyone's gotta walk on the wild side at one time or another; it makes for a richer, more interesting, and certainly more exciting life.
SleazyG (edited version) by LaserPants	Feb 6th, 2008 04:33:26 PM
"And frankly, I'm tired of the words "cokeheaded skirt-chaser" and "coke whore" and so on being used in a derogatory manner." Haha! Well said, sir! Whats wrong with a little coke and womanizing? Everyone's gotta walk on the wild side at one time or another; it makes for a richer, more interesting, and certainly more exciting life.
That Was Jon Quixote Quoted On Y Cover! by Buzz Maverik	Feb 6th, 2008 04:53:34 PM
One of the best reviewers of comics ever. I was gonna review Y # 1 but he called it, along with the last piece of pizza. I am still the only @$$hole to ever have the one positive line of an overwhelmingly negative review (ULTRA # 1 -- if I wanted SEX & THE CITY, I'd be a chick)quoted on the cover of a trade.
Sleazy... by Laserhead	Feb 6th, 2008 05:34:41 PM
That wasn't a "well-written insightful defense" of ASBAR. It didn't point to anything redeeming about the series, merely invested it with barking-frog's "beliefs" about what will happen in the future. The review is nothing but armchair psychoanalysis of a character who's written too shallowly to deserve such an analysis, bolstered by empty wishes. The whole stance is similar to any fanatic (religious or political) who ignores the reality in front of their faces in favor of speaking of 'belief.' Miller has been a hack since the mid-nineties.
"Miller has been a hack since the mid-nineties." by SleazyG.	Feb 6th, 2008 05:52:04 PM
And that's your belief. One I pretty much agree with, BTW. Hell, I also agree with the people who call 300 fascistic and homophobic, among other things (I also found the story to be slight, at best, with little or no characterization worth mentioning). BUT: these are things we believe. They are our subjective opinions. They are not objective, scientific fact. Debating the "reality" of whether one fictional comic is better than another is a dodgy matter at best, as anyone who's written a review can attest. While we may believe we have more evidence on our side, there are those who may view the works from a different perspective and just as strongly believe something that makes no sense to you and I whatsoever. Like believing ASBAR is worth anything more as a complete issue than it would be as kindling for a fireplace, for example.
Thanks, Buzz by seppukudkurosawa	Feb 6th, 2008 05:53:07 PM
I was interested as I remember that they just credited it as "AICN," but that could have meant anyone. I'm going to miss Y: The Last Man. You know, it was in an issue of Y where I read the word "heh" in print for the very first time. My life just hasn't been the same since. I've been putting off buying issue #60 for a few days- perhaps to prolong the series' existence?- but I'll be picking it up tomorrow. I hear it's a corker, so I'm looking forward to it. Thanks for the great write-up, Humph...(There isn't really anyway of shortening the name Humphrey and making it sound cool).
Yeah, but by Laserhead	Feb 6th, 2008 05:58:41 PM
the reviewers 'beliefs' are all based on THINGS THAT HAVEN'T HAPPENED YET, not on what exists now. I always thought 300 sucked, too, not because of the homophobia or the total lack of historical realism, but because the story was so slight and all the Spartans talked like bad Mickey Spillane characters. Anyway...
In defense of Frank Miller and not Alex Ross by Funketeer	Feb 6th, 2008 06:01:04 PM
I don't think Alex Ross is nearly as good at design as Marvel and DC seem to think he is. I think he continues to get projects based on the goodwill built up from Marvels and Kingdom Come. The more of his work I see, the more I feel like giving credit to Busiek and Waid for those two works. Sure he paints a pretty picture but he needs a good story teller (sorry Kreuger, you ain't it) to push him. As for ASBAR, I love it too and I think most people hate it for the reason they should like it. It's over the top and meant to be. Miller isn't trying to do DK3 or Year 4, he's intentionally doing Batman as a cheesy noir/macho dimestore crime book. If that's not your taste then fine but don't say it's bad because you don't like the genre. If you want to complain about the lateness of the book, I'll join you but other than that, I think it's a fun ride.
Is Anyone Reading CROSSING MIDNIGHT? by LaserPants	Feb 6th, 2008 06:08:00 PM
I don't think I've seen an a$$hole review of the book yet. Its really cool. Based in Japan, using Japanese myths and iconography, really beautiful and unique artwork and a freaky story. Pretty violent / disturbing as well. If yr not reading, I recommend.
I Haven't Read Much Of ASBAR, But What I Have Read... by LaserPants	Feb 6th, 2008 06:15:26 PM
doesn't strike my fancy. Batman isn't a transgressive nihilist, he's a control freak genius law and order guy. What I saw of ASBAR seemed like Miller trying to SIN CITY up BATMAN, which I don't think fits the character all that well. I mean, I love SIN CITY, but BATMAN isn't and never was Marv or Dwight. He's not like that in general continuity, and he's not even like that in Miller's continuity. Sure, he may be unhinged, but he's hyper controlled about it, not a raging Marv-like lunatic/bezerker. I think Miller is having fun with it and no doubt picking up a hefty check for it, but I don't think he's "feeling" it, he's just fuckin' around.
Btw, ASSBAR Would Be A Great Name For A Gay Biker Bar by LaserPants	Feb 6th, 2008 06:16:36 PM
Not that I frequent such establishments, but it would be a great name for one.
Peoples Peoples Peoples by seppukudkurosawa	Feb 6th, 2008 06:47:30 PM
Stop arguing about arguing, and unite in your mutual disgust of the new Harry Animation.
AFFLECK... by expert_40	Feb 6th, 2008 07:26:52 PM
... you were NOT da bomb in "Smoking Aces," yo! Okay, here are some well-thought out reasons why ASB&R and Frank Miller are total shit: The purile dialogue and character "development." Batman screaming, "I'm the GODDAMN Batman," to a scared kid. Batman jacking himself off on Black Canary like a horny labrador retriever while people are dying. Batman as fucktard, crazy nihilist which is a complete LEAP out of the parameters of who and what Batman is and is supposed to be. The reason why All-Star Superman works? Because it's still fucking SUPERMAN! The reason why Ultimate Spider-Man works? It's still fucking SPIDER-MAN! The reason why ASB&R doesn't work? Because that's not fucking Batman. It is a delusional man's coked-up fever dream of an amalgam of Batman and possibly a few of his characters from Sin City and maybe a little Leonidas thrown in there for good measure. Barking Frog's review wasn't so much a review as it was all his dreams for what he hopes the series COULD be, not what it IS. That's complete bullshit, and I called him on it. He's full of shit and retarded to attempt to logically explain the trainwreck that is this comic as written by a coke-fiend. And no... it is NEVER good to be hopped up on coke and fucking hookers when you're supposed to be writing coherent dialogue and diagraming a character on par with Batman. If you must do that, Frank, do it on your own fucking time, and stop fucking the rest of us over. That's it. Soapbox rant over.
re: In defense of Frank Miller and not Alex Ross by barking_frog	Feb 6th, 2008 08:30:06 PM
"It's over the top and meant to be. Miller isn't trying to do DK3 or Year 4, he's intentionally doing Batman as a cheesy noir/macho dimestore crime book." -- Funketeer That's what I thought at first, but Miller stated in an interview even before ASB&R #1 was released that he viewed the series as "Batman Year Two". That's part of what led me to the conclusion I've reached about Miller's intention -- since he clearly intends this to be the same Batman as in YEAR ONE and DKR, and the book's not just a radical reinterpretation of the character, he has to have a plan for explaining how Batman got this way and for "bringing him back". Unless of course he's now a coked-out whore chaser, but the series seems way too focused for me to buy that. Maybe it's just because I read all eight issues back to back, but it seems to me like all the indicators are there.
rock-me Amodeo by proper	Feb 6th, 2008 08:47:35 PM
nice 1.I too have been reading Dan Dare.I recommend it.Dan Dare has been rebooted many times (usually badly,though I haven't got round to the 90's Grant Morrison version yet,I'm more from the early 80's Eagle Reboot School,Doomlord anybody,Tower King no??,ah anybody round here ever read Scream weekly,I'm still dizzy of the fumes from the ink print) but with this version I think Ennis has shown restraint and has got it right.......ASB&R= silly :)
Wordy seppu..etc. guy... by loodabagel	Feb 6th, 2008 08:53:04 PM
Hell yeah that is some god-awful animation. What the fuck? I'll join your side when the shit goes down, even if I can't bother to type your full screen name. PLus, I don't give much of a shit about Batman.
an odd thought by rock-me Amodeo	Feb 6th, 2008 09:00:33 PM
I suppose the question could be asked of ASBAR (the same question that some are asking of Spiderman), and that is this: if the thought is that even if the writer(s) will be "bringing him back"--back to a semblance of status quo that most people identify with--is it wise, is it acceptable, to have so many people so upset about this radical departure? It's more than just the end not justifying the means. It's the thought that each (or at least every other, criminy) issue must somehow entertain. And if several issues into a story line, most people are NOT entertained, and are flat out disgusted, then what purpose does that serve? At some point, it's just arrogant to continue. It's like a singer that has to sing most of a song in a low register, and they suck on low notes, but they really rock on high notes. They might keep saying,"wait, wait! You're gonna love the end!" But who wants to sit through all of that wretched beginning? I don't care if he can hit high notes like Geddy Lee, I'm not going to stick around for the crappy parts. And I think most of ASBAR has been crappy. Consistent, but crappy. To me, it doesn't matter how many indicators are there, and I know you've put a lot of thought into this, but me, I'm not sticking around. I don't care what kind of high notes it hits at the end.
barking frog by mithrandir16	Feb 6th, 2008 09:12:03 PM
Thanks for answering my question about the TP.
re: an odd thought by barking_frog	Feb 6th, 2008 09:17:38 PM
I agree with you 100%. I doubt that Miller intended to take the character so far afield for so long -- or perhaps he thought people would be more tolerant of the experiment. I'm guessing the book works better read as a "trade", one issue after another -- and considering it's taken two years to get to where it is and most people aren't concerned with its overall sense, I'd have to say in terms of reader interest that Miller's failing. I felt the same way about DOC FRANKENSTEIN -- great book crippled by incredible gaps between issues and a decompressed story that just exacerbated that problem. If ASB&R is eventually successful in the public eye, I think it'll be in TPB form, like RUNAWAYS.
Here's a question... by expert_40	Feb 6th, 2008 09:34:24 PM
... how come some of the best written stuff out right now is never really talked about here in the @$$hole Forum? Yes, I am talking about Green Lantern, which is, besides maybe Ultimate Spider-Man, the single most consistently good book out there. It delivers on the goods, EVERY FUCKING TIME. The Sinistro Corps. The beginning of the fleshing out of the mythology behind the scense. The rainbow of colors attached to will power, fear power, love power, etc. Hal Jordan is the single best superhero, with the single best costume and powers in comics today. But you'd never know it from the @$$holes. End of soapbax rant numero two.
Here's an answer: please define "never" by rock-me Amodeo	Feb 6th, 2008 09:50:45 PM
We review Ultimate Spider-Man, like, every other month or something. (I personally did 111 and 116, and didn't we do it, uhn, today?) As far as GL goes, we reviewed GL Corps #20 (http://www.aintitcool.com/nod e/35288) and we did a huge love-fest for GL25 and I know we did at least a cheap shot (or two) of the Sinistro stuff... I mean, this is like my wife saying I "never" take out the garbage. (honey, is that you?)
re: Here's a question... by barking_frog	Feb 6th, 2008 09:51:50 PM
I haven't committed to it yet, but it's possible I'll be reviewing THE SINESTRO CORPS WAR for Feb 20, the same day the first TPB is released. And I'm scheduled to have a review of THE BOYS up for next week, the 13th.
hmm...dan dare... by blackthought	Feb 6th, 2008 09:59:05 PM
i'll have to check it out...anyone read the black adam mini? cuz i pretty much loved the whole shabang...black adam is a fave of mine...i would play him in the movie if i had any muscles, i think i'd do fine with the murderous justice that adam dishes out. rock-me!, prica might turn out to be an astute buy by keano (a man i hated so much as a player)...i hope they stay up though. derby, buh-by, they have been awful. my beloved gooners have been fantastic except when head butting eachother, jeez.
answered... by expert_40	Feb 6th, 2008 10:00:55 PM
... I know y'all review Ult. Spidey a lot, that wasn't the question. But GL is under-represented for being such a great book. I don't think it's too much to ask for one review a month, maybe two if you include the Green Lantern Corps, which is also superbly written It's just, in a time when many of the "big" books are struggling to find consistently great writing (Hello, BRAND NEW DAY or whatever the fuck they're calling the Spider-Man books now, or any of the Superman books), GL always entertains and keeps you wanting more. I just think it should find a permanent home in the rotation of reviews. The way it is, especially with DC, the "secondary" books (GL, Robin, Nightwing, etc.) are just better than the primary books. And it pains me to call GL a secondary book, but with Wally coming back and the whole Countdown and constant retconning over at Superman, GL doesn't even get the love from DC most months, but it deserves it. It's a jewel in the DC crown, for sure. Emerald, if you will.
re: answered... by barking_frog	Feb 6th, 2008 10:08:56 PM
Are the Superman books bad again? Last time I looked, which was about six months ago, you had your choice of Morrison on ALL STAR SUPERMAN, Geoff Johns (author of GREEN LANTERN) and Richard Donner on ACTION, and Kurt Busiek on SUPERMAN. Not exactly B-list talent.
Funny you should mention Nightwing... by rock-me Amodeo	Feb 6th, 2008 10:29:53 PM
I've already committed to reviewing it next week. It rocked. And I agree. The "second tier" books seem to be where it's at lately, perhaps because they have more latitude. Ultimately, it comes down to which books moved us the most, and those books get reviewed, as many as we can do (which, some weeks, is only one or two, except for Ambush Bug, who is RELENTLESS in reviewing as many good things as he possibly can.) But I agree, GL has been great, and I am a fan who has only come aboard recently. Next one that comes out, I'll make a special effort to share the love.
expert_40 by Funketeer	Feb 6th, 2008 11:20:26 PM
They don't review all the great books out there because they don't read them. Don't think of this as a review site because it's not. A good reviewer goes out of his way to seek out new material rather than review the same books every month. This guys aren't really interested in being good reviewers. Their primary concern seems to be creating a web presence for themselves similar to what Harry did. I'm sure some of them hope to parlay this into some kind of comic book career. If you want good comics criticism, go to The Savage Critics or Eye On Comics.
uhn... by rock-me Amodeo	Feb 6th, 2008 11:31:03 PM
We're standing RIGHT HERE, Funketeer. Yep, that's us, parleying away.
Funketeer...uhm...hello? by Ambush Bug	Feb 7th, 2008 12:18:00 AM
How about that Indie Jones section I put out every week, funky? I think that's about as "outside of one's comfort zone" as you can get. To be honest, I've always been a "Big Two" kind of guy or was until the original Indie Jones AKA Lizzybeth left the column and left me with the job of covering the indie section. Now I've formed an appreciation for all kinds of books--big and small. And the main reason some of us review some books and we don't review others is because we rarely get comps. So we review what we get normally, but I've seen many of the Holes venture outside their pull list in the name of journalism. I've never heard of those other sites you mentioned. They're probably good cats, but with the amount of Holes (now ringing in at 12) reviewing for AICN Comics, we're bound to cover just about anything you desire. It may not happen every month, but all of the books mentioned in the above posts have been reviewed numerous times here. Check out some of our past columns if you think I'm lying.
ASBAR is worse by Whitemouse	Feb 7th, 2008 02:40:43 AM
than the batman & robin film? Really? That's a little harsh...
"Their primary concern seems to be creating a web presence" by IndustryKiller!	Feb 7th, 2008 03:00:17 AM
Ok now that is just a bullshit statement. I wouldn't say I'm entrenched in the comic world anymore so I don't know a ton of sites that review them, but these guys are easily the best comic reviewers that I know of. If they don't review every god damned book out there or even a large array it's probably because they've got other shit in their lives going on besides reviewing comic books for aint it cool news for no pay. What comics they do review they review very well, in fact they are some of the best reviews on the site.
I don't really have a comfort zone in comics by stones_throw	Feb 7th, 2008 06:00:11 AM
Any book that does something exciting and interesting in an original way is okay with me. I barely have a pull list anymore since most of the books I buy are to review here. I get THE SPIRIT because that's something new each month and THE BRAVE AND THE BOLD because it's always good and has the George Perez art. Grant Morrison is usually a safe bet too. But beyond that it's all good. Actually, the main problem is trying to get through a random #1 I happen to pick up off the stands, which is why I'm considering moving to trades and reprints more. Btw, in case I didn't make it clear earlier, I'd like to apologize to Jeff Albertson because that whole thing got blown out of proportion. I thought he was making a dig at a joke in a review, actually he was responding to a talkback from Rock-me Amodeo. So sorry about that--my fault completely.
Like I said about Superman... by expert_40	Feb 7th, 2008 06:00:57 AM
... they seem to be trying to retcon the damn books on a monthly basis. With Action, it's good, but is it comic book Superman, or is it Dick Donner's movie Superman? And All-Star Supes doesn't count. And I'm saying that now because, well, I stupidly wasn't clear that I meant the regular books. My bad. All-Star Supes IS good. GL is just better, well, it's better as long as they keep Judd Winick as far away from the book as humanly possible. That man single handidly ruins every book he touches with his heavy-handed socialist agenda. Otherwise, he's a decent writer, but his ideology gets in the way. We get it, Judd... Pedro was a good guy, was gay, and died of AIDS. It sucks, but stop beating us over the fucking head with it!
About Batman & Robin... by rbatty024	Feb 7th, 2008 06:16:25 AM
once the reviewer says the comic isn't for everyone, essentially blaming the audience when they don't "understand" it, then the reviewer has failed.
Why oh Y by Midnightxpress	Feb 7th, 2008 07:00:32 AM
...Is Y:The Last Man considered to be an equal to Vertigo Legends like Sandman or Preacher. Those series pushed the format to new heights, Y is just the more mainstream Walking Dead.
ASBAR by WavingFlagsInSpace	Feb 7th, 2008 07:46:20 AM
I love ASBAR because each couple of months I have to face a mighty internal struggle - do I jettison the title because Miller is poorly edited and appears to have been given 'carte blanche' to indulge all his twisted anxieties about superheroes, or do I cough up my hard-earned moolah for Jim Lee's & Alex Sinclair's stunning pencil and ink work. Jim Lee brought me back to Batman with 'Hush'...I just wish that he was working the regular series with Morrison...though Tony Daniel is no slouch. No other comic book presetns me with such a dilemma...I think I need to get out more.
ASBAR - You're all wrong by Hedgehog000	Feb 7th, 2008 10:13:09 AM
Frank Miller is neither drugged out nor delusional. He's also not doesn't have a cohesive plan. What he does have is contempt for both superheroes and their fans. Read the interviews with him after DKSA. He's having fun by crapping on his greatest success and a beloved hero - and seeing if the fans will buy it. And apparently - many of you are. I'm sure he's enjoying your pain and your money.
Nightwing by Bluejack	Feb 7th, 2008 11:58:46 AM
I kept on with Nightwing for a while because I have the whole run. But after numerous revamps that go nowhere and constantly changing locale, rogues gallery and love interests, I just can't read it an more. Since he left Bludhaven and Blockbuster fell out of his life, Nightwing has never been the same. Livng in a museum? I'll pass.
Brubaker by Bluejack	Feb 7th, 2008 12:00:41 PM
I just picked up the first "Sleeper" trade and it is fantastic. I'm not a Daredevil fan but I picked up the first trade of Bru's run because the guy is that good. Has he written any stinkers?
History of The @$$hole Part 1: by Buzz Maverik	Feb 7th, 2008 12:19:50 PM
One of the earliest in-house arguments among the @$$holes was when someone, let's say me, may have spoken a tad testily to a departed (but not dead) member by what some people would call screaming: WHY DO YOU REVIEW THE FLASH EVERY SINGLE MONTH? AND SUPERMAN! DO WE NEED TO COVER EVERY SINGLE ISSUE OF SUPERMAN? NO WE DO NOT NEED TO COVER EVERY SINGLE ISSUE OF SUPERMAN! HOWZABOUT SOMETHING NEW & DIFFERENT BY NEW PEOPLE? AND THE NEW REVIEWER YOU WANNA BRING ABOARD? YOU WANT TO BRING HIM ABOARD BECAUSE HE READS THE SAME EXACT STUFF YOU DO! I'm not sure that one was ever resolved.
Actually, Schleppy the Monkey Settled Things. by Buzz Maverik	Feb 7th, 2008 12:21:35 PM
Two handfuls of well aimed poo will usually do that.
Then, I Quit Reading Comics For That Reason by Buzz Maverik	Feb 7th, 2008 12:23:57 PM
Expand your borders and you'll find just how many things outside your borders ... suck big time. If you want to keep liking comics, you pull back.
ASBAR - Flail Away by optimous_douche	Feb 7th, 2008 12:32:06 PM
I know I will be raked over the coals for this statement, but here it goes. “I like All Star Batman and Robin.” There I said it, my head did not cave in nor did all comic shops across America implode from the sheer gravity of these words. Now, a lot of folks in the Talkbacks have been looking at this book from several standpoints. One, does this fit into Batman continuity? Does it meet the edicts as to what the All Star line is supposed to be (cough ~ rip-off of Marvel’s Ultimate line)? Is Frank Miller creating ASBAR to fit into the continuity of Year One and DKR? I will start with question three, because I love making the analytical folks in this world vomit uncontrollably from my sheer randomness. Frank Miller, I must call bullshit about you creating a new continuity. If we step into our flying Deloreans and visit the early 1980’s we’ll all remember what Year One was initially attended to achieve. This was a post-crisis (the first crisis) relaunch of Batman. It was supposed to make him more accessible to modern readers while showing reverence for the original continuity. Despite how we all feel about Frank today, I think everyone can agree he did an admirable job back then. One of the talkbackers mentioned that the DKR batman was a kinder, gentler Batman than the one in ASBAR. Again I won’t dispute this fact. This mid-life crisis version of the Caped Crusader was far gentler and kinder than what we see in ASBAR. So to say this is a new continuity is a cop out and justification for a book wrought with delays. Stop trying to create your new universe Frank, just tell some good stories. Does this book meet the edicts of the All Star line and does it fit into Batman continuity? No it does adhere dogmatically to cannon. Next. I’m not sure two title lines that come out about as often as a likeable Presidential candidate should even have edicts. All Star Superman seems to be plodding along to its own drum beat. The stories are fantastic and the art is superb (I like Quitely’s ugly people), but Superman is still just Superman. Miller is recreating Batman with ASBAR, but is that wrong? Obviously the folks at DC don’t think so, and neither do I. If in the 21st century he wants to convert Batman to Cockman and his foul mouthed sidekick then have it. Love it, hate it or burn the books in effigy, this is just one man’s take on an old tale. Look at Battlestar Galactica. While it takes elements from the original show, what we have been given over the past five years is a complete reinvention. Some folks pine for the old days, while others have embraced this dark reinvention. Comics have always been a reflection of our societal values and ASBAR is a direct mirror being held in front of everyone who is not a baby boomer. My age makes me a whipper snapper to Gen X and an old fogey to Gen Y, but one undeniable truth is that we are in an age of cynicism and these demographic groups embody that cynicism with gusto. From our apathy about the government to the dismal fiscal outlook of our future, we are in a time of crisis for our humanity. The world has become a darker place and I’m sure that’s especially true for someone like Miller who as a Baby Boomer looks at the next generation and says, “I didn’t create this Batman kids; you did.” This is not the Batman we know, nor does this fit in with some pseudo-continuity Miller created twenty years ago. This is Batdouche. Take that for what its worth.
'Batdouche'-- I like that. by Laserhead	Feb 7th, 2008 01:12:52 PM
That to me is a reasonable response by someone who likes ASBAR. Just say you enjoy a psychotic, juvenile, idiot Batman whose adventures are stretched out incredibly thin while being well-drawn by Jim Lee. That's honest. To say you like ASBAR because of all these things you hope and 'believe' might one day happen with the title is conjecture and ignores the crap product that's out there. Optimus is right is simply acknowledging the crap product as something he enjoys, without having to spin depth and profundity where none exist.
Thanks Laser by optimous_douche	Feb 7th, 2008 01:54:23 PM
For reading through my non-spaced mess. Will teach me not to cut & paste directly from word.
Back to AS:B&R by rbatty024	Feb 7th, 2008 03:31:48 PM
I've read a lot of reviews that attempt to defend this title. The above review was easily the worst. The parody idea is at least interesting (although there are several holes with that take), but to see it as some deep character study is ridiculous. There is nothing deep about AS:B&R. Half the review is assuming where the comic might go instead of reviewing the actual comic book.
... by blackthought	Feb 7th, 2008 10:43:53 PM
anyone know if there will be any more colbert comics?
the Return of SCUD by octochan	Feb 8th, 2008 12:46:01 AM
OMFG. This was the comic book that got me into comic books, and I'd utterly given up hope that we would finally find out what happened after #20. And it's been more than 10 years, the last issue came out in '94! I rarely kept up with Rob Schrab's news; I didn't even know he'd worked on Monster House or the Sarah Silverman Show until 5 minutes ago. I'd only just looked SCUD up again because I still haven't yet bought any of La Cosa Nostroid series. SCUD's story will finally be complete! I may weep openly!
ASBAR by Darth Kal-El	Feb 8th, 2008 01:28:40 AM
while the review was certainly heartfelt and I have no doubt genuine,it remains one fans opinion. earlier in the tb the usual nerd knee jerk name calling was going on which of course this being aicn,is expected. i personally think its a horribly written book with amazing art.im not in the least bit interested in where miller is taking it or how it ties into the 'miller continuity'.i recently found the entire run to date on a torrent and got it to see if it was really as bad as i keep hearing it is. its actually worse than i had thought. my point through all this is twofold-frog is entitled to his opinion and calling him names because his differs from yours puts you in the same category as the demented child torturing 'goddamn batman' that miller is writing over at ASBAR. second point-and i said this about 'new day brand again same event' over at the spidey books. Vote with your damn wallet! if the book is trash stop telling the writers and the publishers that its not by giving them your money! if u absoloutely have to have the comic for the art or whatever the case may be get them off a torrent. this is why things dont change in comics. because nerds get up in arms about the shake up to the current status quo or how horrible the current writer is but continue to buy the books.make it stop-vote with your wallets-go get a torrent
ASBAR by DuncanHines	Feb 8th, 2008 12:21:22 PM
Well, the book really does fit in with the continuity of Frank Miller's other Batman stuff. Read Dark Knight Returns, Year One, and DK2. Read them as a whole, and then read the 8 issues of ASBAR all in one sitting. This is Frank Miller's Batman, and it fits right in with everything else he's done with the character.
And as for that Daredevil review... by DuncanHines	Feb 8th, 2008 12:30:31 PM
I see what you're saying, and maybe they should have a higher rating on the book... But Daredevil always works best when his life is being dragged through a mix of shit and broken glass. Brubaker is kicking ass all over this book. And Daredevil hasn't been a book for kids for a long long time. Arguably, since the first time they let Frank Miller touch it, but probably since the original issue 47, "Brother Take My Hand," by Stan Lee and Gene Colan. Daredevil has been the superhero comic for an older, more mature mindset for a long time.
Fables # 69!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! !!!!!!!!!!!!!! by Psynapse	Feb 8th, 2008 12:31:53 PM
Geppetto got his ass PWNED bitches!!
The Joker by SpikeTBB	Feb 8th, 2008 02:16:07 PM
Has The Joker shown up in All Star Batman yet? I'm curious to see their take on him.
re: The Joker by barking_frog	Feb 8th, 2008 04:04:38 PM
He's first referenced (but doesn't appear) in the last two pages of issue #7, and then has his first two scenes in #8.
robinson is back... by blackthought	Feb 8th, 2008 05:11:27 PM
on an ongoing title...SUPERMAN...that is...i do love robinson, he gave me one of my favorite if not favorite run ever with starman. so i'm psyched to see him back...oh wait, pysch is on tonight...nice...
Fables... by loodabagel	Feb 8th, 2008 06:38:45 PM
I haven't gotten into it. One of these days, maybe, but not now. I've got the first trade and 1001 Nights of Snowfall. Both are good, but not great. Also, I know Willingham doesn't plan to run the series forever, but does he have a set end date in sight?
barking frog by Darth Kal-El	Feb 9th, 2008 03:16:43 AM
your still in the tb so il ask a question i had about your review. i honestly havent read year one or DKR in quite a few years so my memory of both is kinda fuzzy. in ASBAR wonder woman is portrayed as a huge man hating bitch. this was something(of many) that to me seemed gratingly out of character when i read asbar. does this fit into the 'miller continuity'idea? notice that i kinda came out in your defense so im not attacking u im just honestly curious because i recently read all 8 issues in 1 sitting and my reaction couldnt be further from yours. and just a quick note to the people saying batman 'dry humped' black canary.that looked like straight up fucking to me. slide the tights down,rip the mesh slide the bodysuit over straight up fucking. but i guess its the same as luke cage not being able to get jessica jones pregnant since they did it from behind which must mean it was in the ass.
re: Darth Kal-El by barking_frog	Feb 9th, 2008 04:26:27 AM
Wonder Woman (and Canary and pretty much everybody) never showed up in DKR or Year One. A character in a Wonder Woman costume appears in DKR, but that's Selina, who the Joker has dressed up as WW. So technically this is the first time we've ever seen the "Dark Knight Universe" (apparently that's what people are calling the DKR Miller continuity) Wonder Woman -- and yes, no doubt she's a far cry from the mainstream DC interpretation, but Miller hasn't previously defined her character/personality within the context of his "pocket" continuity. Though actually she might've appeared in DK2, a story I don't remember all that well because I honestly wasn't very impressed with it.
thanks for the answers frog by Darth Kal-El	Feb 9th, 2008 04:34:52 AM
see i know i remember superman being kindof a govermen tool in dk but i was almost positive i hadnt seen anyone else from the league.but aso i remember liking the hell out of boh dkr and year one which i couldnt say for anything but the art in asbar.and shit even the art was a bit over the top at times. alfred is buffed out bodybuilder? really?so anyways barking frog let me ask u this-if asbar finishes and it turns out to not be a grand character study but just what it looks like so far-a pile of shit-do u thik that would make you reevaluate your opinion of miller?im not sure if im ready to go the 'whoring,coke snorting,egomaniacal has-been'route just yet but i will for sure say im not reading the same guy that wrote DKR or even sin city for that matter
Darth Kal-El and Barking Frog by DuncanHines	Feb 9th, 2008 04:47:19 AM
Dudes. We met Miller-verse Wonder Woman in DK2. And that was definitely an older version of the character in ASBAR. Also, Miller's Batman always reads best when the whole story is in one book. I hated DK2 when it came out as issues. 3 years later, I re-read it, and it's fucking awesome. Completely outrageous, but awesome.
see my curiosity got the best of me by Darth Kal-El	Feb 9th, 2008 04:56:06 AM
and im currently downloading a complete frank miller torrent. at the very worst ill have some cool daredevil to re-read.i want to go back into dkr and year one and dk2 which i vaguely remember reading all at once one lazy saturday afternoon at barnes.i still think asbar is crap.even it does tie into this 'dark knight universe' its crap.frog like i said earlier your review was heartfelt and definately well written but man i think your in for a huge disapointment when it comes to this series and the millerverse.a previous post hit it on the head-just cuz u know phantom menace or attack of the clones leads into and is connected to a new hope doesnt make those movies any better
re: thanks for the answers frog by barking_frog	Feb 9th, 2008 05:02:28 AM
First, I did run off and check out DK2 and Wonder Woman actually features prominently -- flipping through it and rereading some of her scenes, it looks like the DK2 WW could easily be what Miller is setting up in ASB&R. Your new question, I want to cover in two parts -- my opinion on Miller and my opinion on ASB&R. I don't really have an opinion on Miller. Some of the talkbacks made the assumption that I'm some sort of Miller fanatic and I'm rationalizing ASB&R because I can't bear the thought that Miller's lost the plot. The truth is, I didn't like DK2. I judge the work on (what I perceive as) its merits. Which brings me to the other half of my answer... I liked ASB&R. I like it even if it's cancelled before #9 is released, and I like it even if I turn out to be completely off base on where it's going and Miller's really just inventing it as he goes along. It's a great fun ride... for me. I was laughing out loud at several scenes, and I guess I'm just not in love with any prior interpretation of any of the characters to the extent that I felt offended by the way Miller was handling them. He did exactly what I love in a piece of writing -- he gave me an entirely new way of looking at something, but a way that still (in my opinion) made sense. Again, the assumption seemed to be made by a lot of talkbackers right from the beginning that I couldn't possibly be enjoying the series as it is now because my review focused so much on where I thought it was going. The reason for that was target audience. As I said in my review, "ASB&R is a comic for a very small audience" -- I didn't really elaborate beyond that because I think a reader is either going to like what Miller's doing or not like what Miller's doing, and me trying to persuade somebody who doesn't like the book that they should like the book is just silly. So I took the next step and started talking to people who might like the book, and covered something that I think won't be obvious to every reader (who likes the book)... that I see every indication that Miller's planning to do a major character story focusing on Robin and Batman's relationship. The general outrage at the fact that I enjoyed something that a lot of other people didn't caught me completely by surprise. ^.^
Something else about ASBAR by DuncanHines	Feb 9th, 2008 05:06:27 AM
As if this whole talkback isn't about it because someone reviewed it positively... But does anyone beside me remember over two years ago, when Miller said in some interview that the series was going to be from the point of view of Robin...? So, of course Batman looks like a fucking crazy person. Of course he "bangs" Black Canary. (and beside that, every chick in Batman's life is a beyond-smoking-hot piece of grade-A ass). This is all through the eyes of a 13 or 14 year-old little dude. Who just saw his Mom and Dad killed in front of his eyes, and was then "rescued" by the crazy-ass Goddamn Batman. ASBAR will entertain some people, and irk the shit out of others, but, I highly recommend going back and re-reading DKR, Year One, and DK2, in that order (the order Miller created them...) then read ASBAR 1-8 in one sitting. You might feel differently. You might not. Or, conversely, read them all in Batman-time chronological order. Whatever works for you...
cmon now frog its aicn by Darth Kal-El	Feb 9th, 2008 05:12:34 AM
when i read your review i fully expected to come into the talkback and see at least 4 posts ranging in levels of civility disagreeing with you and at least double that insulting you for your opinion. hell someone even dusted off the old 'plant' standby which made my day.thanks again for replying.like i said it was a bit of curiosity on my part motivated by having just recently read all 8 issues in one sitting. i guess i could see the appeal it might have to a "very small audience" in the way that i cant peel my eyes off 'I love new york' or 'celebrity apprentice'(goddamn you writers strike). im not invested in the character at all so miller didnt offend me it just sucked(in my opinion) but hey good review nonetheless(it got us talking right)its rounding on 3am here so im going to hit the sack,but you know,ill be here all week
im going to try that duncan by Darth Kal-El	Feb 9th, 2008 05:15:10 AM
as soon as my torrent is done downloading.
im a douche by Darth Kal-El	Feb 9th, 2008 05:23:59 AM
"The general outrage at the fact that I enjoyed something that a lot of other people didn't caught me completely by surprise. ^.^"the smiley face should have tipped me off but i replied like a dildo anyways. of course u know its aicn and whaty to expect,you frackin review here! damn tiredness,thats it im to bed
i'm more interested... by blackthought	Feb 9th, 2008 11:03:10 AM
in frank miller's adaptation of the spirit than his actually current comic book work as it right now. hmm...so much snow.
FYI re: Black Terror copyrights and stuff by Prof Challenger	Feb 9th, 2008 11:42:28 AM
There was a query earlier in the TB wondering about the Terra Obscura characters and why PROJECT SUPERPOWERS can use the same characters. In simplest terms, this is the deal: Most of the super-heroes published under the Nedor comics in the 40s have lapsed into public domain. What that means is that anyone can tell new stories based on the characters. DC, Marvel, ABC, Dynamite, anyone can do it. BUT as to the question about Alan Moore's ownership of the characters? Moore absolutely does own HIS VERSION of the characters. Dynamite canNOT go and start utilizing any Terra Obscura concepts in their version. Their version must be based solely on what has lapsed into public domain, i.e., the original Nedor comics stories. And here on out, anyone else who uses the characters has to be careful not to utilize any aspects of the PROJECT SUPERPOWERS series and related projects.
Professor Challenger Is My Attorney by Buzz Maverik	Feb 9th, 2008 01:37:01 PM
Hey, Prof, ya got it reduced to a misdemeanor, right? Community service. Like, I do a commercial: "Hey, kids, playing with Molotov cocktails may seem cool but..." How are we comin' on those nuisance lawsuits, Prof? As many of you know, I support my family and pay my taxes with my earnings from nuisance lawsuits.
The Hell? by Greggers	Feb 9th, 2008 08:02:57 PM
THAT'S what you were screaming at me, Buzz? I don't remember that part. In fact, I actually don't even remember you screaming at me. Whatever the case, let the record show that I was the only @$$hole that ever reviewed Archie. FACT!
That ARCHIE review was the barking_frog ASBAR review of its time by SleazyG.	Feb 10th, 2008 01:17:54 PM
highly controversial, as I recall. There were those who agreed with your analysis and found it rather insightful, but then along came a fellow @$$hole (Jon Quixote, I believe) who attacked your stance. Said you'd gotten it all wrong, your thesis was incorrect, and provided a contradictory and equally literary analysis. Good times.
Buzz buzz buzz by Prof Challenger	Feb 10th, 2008 02:57:46 PM
I cannot work magic. A felony is a felony is a felony. Especially when she's only 16. And what's this about paying taxes? IRS tells me a different story.
Urm. Greggers???? by Prof Challenger	Feb 10th, 2008 03:18:56 PM
I reviewed Li'l Archie last year. FACT!
Oh great. Next you'll tell me... by Greggers	Feb 10th, 2008 05:16:08 PM
Next you'll tell me that someone else has reviewed RADISKULL. Dear god, can you people leave me at least one shred of obscure/kitsch comic reviewing to call my own? (I mean, y'all gave Vroom HOUSEWIVES AT PLAY. Come ON!) And Sleazy, I'd hate to think Jon and his fancy lawyering tricks fooled anyone. My essay clearly and incontravertably demonstrated that Archie was a symbol -- a proxy, if you will -- for the idea of innate and organic bi-curiosity. I stand by this.
Betty... by loodabagel	Feb 10th, 2008 10:36:01 PM
Will always be there for Archie. Veronica will eventually realize that she's in love with Jughead and Reggie will notice that cute girl in the back of geometry class. Seriously, these plot threads have been building for years. All the evidence is there.
Reggie by Prof Challenger	Feb 10th, 2008 11:07:05 PM
...is actually a repressed homosexual in love with Dilton Doily.
Yeah... by loodabagel	Feb 11th, 2008 03:17:24 PM
Maybe in the cokeheaded, edgy mid-80's Archie. The Reggie I know and love is getting all kinds of pussy.
Actually, Greggers... by Buzz Maverik	Feb 11th, 2008 05:20:53 PM
I was just making that stuff up about the yelling. What's the word they use for my condition? Pathological something. Greggers, was it you that did the Archie/Gatsby juxtaposition? Because that was one of my favorite all time reviews here, along with Bug's BLAH, BLAH,BLAH, and Quixote's "What Would The Comic Be Like If It Were Titled: Q, the Last @$$hole.
Well, I Knocked Out The Community Service. by Buzz Maverik	Feb 11th, 2008 05:27:17 PM
"Hey, kids, if yer ever swinging on a bungee cord from an overpass sign on the 605, make sure it's the right guy in the Testerossa..."
And I Pay My Taxes... by Buzz Maverik	Feb 11th, 2008 05:29:06 PM
Learned it from a Parker/Grofield novel by Richard Stark. GROFIELD:"You mean you pay taxes?" THUG:"Sure. So does Parker. Right, Parker?" PARKER:"Yeah."
Does This Mean If I Make A Joke About JQ... by Buzz Maverik	Feb 11th, 2008 05:31:02 PM
...Superninja, Lizzybeth and the Comedian, they, too, will appear?
steve gerber passed away... by blackthought	Feb 11th, 2008 08:15:13 PM
i liked his twisted humor.
Seriously? by loodabagel	Feb 11th, 2008 08:53:30 PM
Damn, see ya Steve. I hardly knew you.
Only 60... by loodabagel	Feb 11th, 2008 09:49:00 PM
Sheesh, he was just a kid when he did all of those old Howard the Duck stories. A freakin' prodigy.

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