One Look at Rob Liefeld's Work

I offer up this deconstruction of Rob Liefeld's work for several reasons, only one of which being that it is humorous. I've discussed Liefeld in the past, but only tangentially, because I never liked the guy's work -- EVAR -- but once I learned just how much of a joke the general Web treats him, I kinda felt sorry for the guy.

The truth is that, when Rob Liefeld was at the top of his game (in the early 90s), I was in the vast minority, and I took a lot of shit for not liking Liefeld's work, so I went through 20 years of my life assuming I remained in the minority on this one (remember I only started buying comics again in the last five years or so; there was a solid decade there when I wasn't buying comics, and had no idea what was happening in the industry, titles, et.al.); it was only very recently that I learned how much the Web (as a general assembly) -- maybe "despises" isn't too strong a word, here -- despises his work.

Of course, it being the Web and all, few bothered to constrain themselves or their comments, and some of the "criticism" is aimed more at the man than his work. Although, having never personally met the guy, I have heard numerous stories (both from within the industry and outside it) regarding his temperament, almost none of which are very flattering. Still, that doesn't give me reason to snipe on the guy; his art, however, has always been shit. Sorry, but it has -- always. Again, I don't know the guy, I'm sure I'd be honored to meet him -- and there's a high probability that I will someday, and I would never say these things to his face (even though I know I run the risk of him reading them here, durr) -- but I've never been a fan of his work.

And lest some youngsters get the wrong idea, I was one of the first to be... flabbergasted by his appearance in a 501 Jeans commercial. His work was literally a bad impersonation of Todd McFarlane's, so I always wondered why Todd McFarlane didn't get the commercial. It was only later that I surmised it was due to the fact that Liefeld was probably prettier, and definitely younger. He was one of the youngest in the field at that time, IIRC. (Actually, Rob Liefeld was the first comic book artist to be paid $1 million; that was the real reason behind the commercial and all, but... you get what I'm saying here.)

I am pretty hard on comics and creators when I critique them, but I'm cognizant of the fact that it, like all entertainment in America, is a business, and the hard truth is that, at some point, you have to make concessions; getting a project to market means conceding to it becoming "product" at some point. So I never faulted Rob Liefeld totally. Someone, somewhere, at some point, should have sent about 60% of his work back for proofing/re-do -- or, at the very least, assigned a "finishing" artist.

Back in The Day, it was not unusual to come across "fill-in" issues which were out of continuity, often because the series regulars (the artist, usually) couldn't get the product out the door on time and something had to ship. They don't do that much anymore, thanks to the umpteen-million crossover events, hype, and total bullshit that has blindsided the industry these days, but I -- and everyone else who reads comics, I'm 99% certain -- would rather get a Shatterstar story that "happened sometime ago* - Ed." and wait an extra month for the next, regular installment, than get crap.

And though I haven't followed Rob Liefeld throughout the years, some of his newer work featured in this selection forces me to agree that he doesn't much care for the comics field -- not enough to get better, anyway -- which is a pretty telling comment on the industry itself.

Not for nothing, the post on Rob Liefeld's Messiah CompleX (X-Force) is still one of the most popular posts I've written here.

© C Harris Lynn, 2010

Stan Lee to Guest/Cameo on Eureka

While details remain murky, Stan Lee announced earlier (via Twitter) that he will be appearing on the SyFy original, Eureka, which was just picked-up for a fifth season. There are no details as to whom Lee will be playing, nor even how large his role will be, but seeing as how it's Eureka, we'll be there anyway.

© C Harris Lynn, 2010

Captain America: Patriot #2

© C Harris Lynn, 2010

Daredevil to be Reborn Following Shadowland

January 2011 will see a four-issue miniseries called Daredevil: Reborn. Andy Diggle and Davide Gianfelice will be the overseers of the new incarnation of the very model of a perfect superhero who needed no change. The identity of Daredevil in this series remains unknown, though the title suggests Matt Murdock -- you know Daredevil -- will return to form. The title is reminiscent of Frank Miller's coup de grace run, Born Again, which the creators rightfully consider the best Daredevil story yet told.

As many fans (including this one) have noted, Daredevil has been "brought low" and driven mad many times since then -- so much so that the idea has lost its elan. So, though I'll be reading and I like Diggle's writing, I'm playing this one close to the vest. I haven't even started Shadowland yet, but it, like Siege before it, continues to grow and rape me monthly, so I'm saying now that I'm just not that into it. I'm hoping my mind will be changed, but expecting to be disappointed.

© C Harris Lynn, 2010

X-Force: Sex & Violence #3

© C Harris Lynn, 2010

Britons Unimpressed with Guns n Roses' Behavior at Leeds

Fellow performers decried Guns n Roses' defiant behavior at the Leeds Festival as "disrespectful" and "boring." Guns n Roses ran over their allotted performance time in 2002, and were told before they even came to the show that, if they ran over again, organizers would pull the plug -- which is exactly what happened. The band continued to play acoustically, with Axl Rose singing through a megaphone. Rose loudly criticized organizers and demanded an apology to the fans. He later reiterated his frustration on Twitter.

Other performers called Axl Rose and Guns n Roses "a joke," and one told them to "grow up," but stunts like this are exactly what today's rock music is lacking. Rose's defiance was not meant to anger, inflame, nor disrespect fellow "artists" (which I use very loosely), it was a message to the organizer, and others, that Guns n Roses is The Talent, and they damn well better be afforded such lofty status because, without them, there would be no show; without the band, there would be no festival, nothing to promote, nothing to manage, nothing to organize.

OTOH, I absolutely see the other side of this debate. Showing up an hour late, then making fans wait half an hour for the band to take the stage is bad form, but in this particular case, I think Axl Rose was making a point more than just "acting-out." I could be wrong -- wouldn't be the first time (though it is rare) -- but that is what I took from the numerous reports I've read on the matter.

Today's rock n roll needs more "fuck you" defiance; more of a point than simply appealing to the masses and making money.

© C Harris Lynn, 2010

Was World Record Attempt a Hoax?

Only eight people showed-up Saturday on the corner of Highland and Hollywood in Los Angeles after reading a Craigslist ad asking for participants dressed as superheroes in an attempt to break the standing world record for most people dressed as superheroes. The current Guinness World Record belongs to Australia (Melbourne - 1,245).

Some are saying the Craigslist ad was simply a hoax, as the organizer himself did not bother to show.

© C Harris Lynn, 2010

Shadowland - Enter: The Thunderbolts (#148)

© C Harris Lynn, 2010

Paris Hilton Charged with Felony Possession

Paris Hilton is to be charged with felony drug possession following her weekend arrest in Las Vegas. A policeman following Hilton and her boyfriend noticed a trail of smoke coming from their vehicle which smelled like marijuana. During booking, Hilton is said to have pulled lip balm from her purse at which time, a baggy containing 0.8 grams of cocaine fell to the floor.

The pair were booked and bailed and released early Saturday morning. The felony possession charges are set to be filed later today.

© C Harris Lynn, 2010

Marvel Comics Shipping 09-01-10

Here we go, boys and girls, your weekly Rundown of Marvel Comics hitting bookshelves this Wednesday, September 1^st, 2010. The Rundown posts this list every week, and you can also find it on other comic book and pop-culture blogs, as well as at Marvel.com. But... you know, you can find it here:

Comics On-Sale:
AMAZING SPIDER-MAN PRESENTS: BLACK CAT #3
ASTONISHING X-MEN: XENOGENESIS #1 DIRECTOR'S CUT
AVENGERS, THOR & CAPTAIN AMERICA: OFFICIAL INDEX TO THE MARVEL UNIVERSE #5
AVENGERS: THE CHILDREN'S CRUSADE #2
AVENGERS: THE CHILDREN'S CRUSADE #2 CHAREST VARIANT
CAPTAIN AMERICA: FOREVER ALLIES #2
DEADPOOL PULP #1
DEADPOOL: WADE WILSON'S WAR #4
FRANKEN-CASTLE #20
GORILLA MAN #3
HAWKEYE & MOCKINGBIRD #4
HERCULES: TWILIGHT OF A GOD #4
HEROIC AGE: ONE MONTH TO LIVE #1
I AM AN AVENGER #1
INCREDIBLE HULKS #612
INCREDIBLE HULKS #612 SHS VARIANT
IRON MAN 2: AGENTS OF S.H.I.E.L.D. #1
IRON MAN LEGACY #6
MARVEL UNIVERSE VS. THE PUNISHER #3
MARVELMAN FAMILY'S FINEST #3
MARVELMAN FAMILY'S FINEST #3 SEPULVEDA VARIANT
NEW MUTANTS FOREVER #2
NEW MUTANTS FOREVER #2 SIENKIEWICZ VARIANT
ORIGINS OF MARVEL COMICS: X-MEN #1
SCARLET #2
SCARLET #2 MACK VARIANT
SCARLET #2 OEMING VARIANT
SHADOWLAND #2 2ND PRINTING VARIANT
SHADOWLAND #3
SHADOWLAND #3 TAN VARIANT
SHADOWLAND: ELEKTRA #1
SKY DOLL: LACRIMA CHRISTI #2
TASKMASTER #1
THOR: FOR ASGARD #1 WRAPAROUND COVER
WOLVERINE #1
WOLVERINE #1 ADAMS VARIANT
WOLVERINE #1 BLANK COVER VARIANT
WOLVERINE #1 DEADPOOL VARIANT
WOLVERINE #1 DJURDJEVIC VARIANT
WOLVERINE #1 LEE SKETCH VARIANT
WOLVERINE #1 MCNIVEN VARIANT
WOLVERINE: THE ROAD TO HELL #1
X-MEN: CURSE OF THE MUTANTS - SMOKE AND BLOOD #1
YOUNG ALLIES #4

Collections On-Sale:
DARK X-MEN TPB
ESSENTIAL CAPTAIN AMERICA VOL. 3 TPB
EXILES ULTIMATE COLLECTION BOOK 5 TPB
IRON MAN: EXTREMIS GN-HC WITH MOTION COMIC DVD
SIEGE: NEW AVENGERS PREMIERE HC
SPIDER-MAN: THE COMPLETE CLONE SAGA EPIC BOOK 3 TPB
THE TORCH TPB

© C Harris Lynn, 2010

Fallen Behind

Sorry for the late start, but I am 2-3 months behind on all of my reading and I have been doing all I can to catch-up. I know I didn't have computer access for over a week there, but I also had several appointments. I did do some reading then, but that only got me to the point I'm at now... Yeah, I'm a bit behind.

But I'm working on it. That's part of the reason I stay away from a lot of related blogs: They often report on things I've yet to read (because I advance order and only get my comic books once a month). However, I'd really like to make more contacts, because I enjoy discussing comics and RPG, so I'm trying my best to get up-to-date here.

© C Harris Lynn, 2010

Read Comics in Public Day

Today is the first annual International Read Comics in Public Day and I nearly missed it. This is the problem with working alone: It's simply impossible to keep abreast of everything.) If you can, be sure to get a picture of yourself, your friends, or anyone else who participates and post it to the International Read Comics in Public Day Flickr group.

The site says the idea is rooted in some joke they can't even remember, but August 28th is also Jack Kirby's birthday, and many agree that he, along with Stan Lee, helped create modern day Comicdom. And all you have to do to participate is read a comic book, graphic novel, or other piece of sequential art, in public. The idea is for people to see you reading comics, thus (hopefully) bolstering the idea that sequential art is a legitimate medium.

© C Harris Lynn, 2010

Anti-Comic Book Political Propaganda - Nancy King (D)

© C Harris Lynn, 2010

Macaulay Culkin is 30

Kinda crazy to think about, isn't it? Yes, that too cute kid who was forced to spend Christmas alone (not counting the nefarious burglars who hounded him) turned the big Three-Oh yesterday, August 26^th. Culkin made his screen debut 20 years ago (1990) in John Hughes' Christmas classic, Home Alone. He was the first child actor in history to be paid $1 million.

Culkin starred in several Home Alone sequels before trouble arose with his parents, whom Culkin says stole his money. He disappeared from acting for some time, only to re-emerge in a string of risky roles, including the portrayal of a paraplegic in Saved!, and ClubKid Michael Alig in Party Monster.

© C Harris Lynn, 2010

Hulk #25

© C Harris Lynn, 2010

Iron Fist to Get a Flick?

According to G4TV, Marvel is seriously considering an Iron Fist movie as its first under the Disney banner. Apparently, an Iron Fist flick has been under consideration for some 10 years or more, but it fell to the wayside, possibly because Iron Fist is not a "top-tier" character who would be recognizable to mainstream audiences. Another possible reason is the character's background itself: Daniel Rand (the current Iron Fist) is the son of a wealthy businessman who dons a mask to find his parents' murderer(s)... ala Batman. While several others have donned the mask throughout the years, it is safe to assume that Daniel Rand will be the lead.

Screenwriter, Rich Wilkes (xXx), is now attached to the project -- the only one named so far. MTV's Splash Page has five interesting suggestions for the lead, though.

© C Harris Lynn, 2010

No Way Out

© C Harris Lynn, 2010

Sequel to Piranha 3D Already in the Works

Despite the fact that Piranha 3D opened at #6 and only brought $10 million, a sequel is already in the works. The movie only cost $24 million to make and is expected to bring-in close to $30 million before it even goes to DVD/VoD, making it an unqualified success. Further, both critics and audience members give it good reviews, even while granting that Piranha 3D is exactly what it sounds like: Gratuitous on every level, in every category.

Piranha 3D is a remake of Joe Dante's 1978 original Piranha, which is actually a decent flick, all things considered. As I've observed before, Piranha (1978) could well have been a tabletop RPG adventure module for any number of games -- and a good one, at that! And while I have not seen the 3D remake, of all the 3D movies to come out recently, Piranha is one that actually fits the bill.

I'd love to hear from anyone who's seen it, so please leave me a comment and let me know what you thought!

© C Harris Lynn, 2010

Longtooth Studios' Patron Project

We gamers are a finicky lot, many of whom always think we could have done a better job than the designers of this product or that one. But could we really? Most often, we are pleased with a product but for one thing, or a handful of things, that we wish had been handled differently. Obviously, it's our game and we can do whatever we want with the rules, but there's more to it than that.

Longtooth Studios' Patron Project is not exactly a new idea -- in fact, I offered such a program several years ago (but had no takers) and OtherWorld Creations had a Yahoo! Group dedicated to its ill-fated attempt at a 3^rd-edition of Chill -- but that doesn't make it a bad one! The Patron Project provides players the opportunity to discuss the game directly with the designers, writers, and artists of the product(s). Patrons' names will be included in the credits, in addition to receiving a free copy of the product. Some Patrons will receive even more.

Longtooth Studios says they not only want to bring gamers wonderful product, but bring the community together, as well. Both are great concepts all of us should support, so I'm asking you personally to check-out the company and the program.

© C Harris Lynn, 2010

Warriors Three #1

© C Harris Lynn, 2010

James Marsters' Three Inches Coming to SyFy

James Marsters, best known as Spike from Buffy the Vampire Slayer, returns to TV in the new SyFy show, Three Inches. Three Inches centers around a small group of superheroes with slightly less than superheroic powers. SyFy EVP of Development called the show "Fun, smart, [and] offbeat." The show is from Fox Television Studios, and written by Harley Peyton (Twin Peaks, Less than Zero). Marsters plays the leader of the gang, Troy.

While Troy's powers have yet to be revealed, the show is named for another character, Walter's, power: After being struck by lightning, Walter develops psychokinesis, but can only move objects a distance of 3".

SyFy has another superhero project entitled Alphas; both shows' 90-minute pilots have been greenlighted by the network, but neither has been picked-up for series. James Marsters was recently engaged to his girlfriend, who is 23 years his junior.

© C Harris Lynn, 2010

The 27 Club

Berkeley, CA - 26 August 2010 - Hendrix, Cobain, Joplin, Morrison -- all died at age 27. In 27, and all-new miniseries from Image Comics and Shadowline, a gifted rock musician fights to make it to his 28^th birthday.

This four-issue series is written by Charles Soule (Strongman), drawn by the brilliant Renzo Podesta (Hard Drive, Howard Lovecraft and the Frozen Kingdom), and features gorgeous covers by W. Scott Forbes (FORGETLESS). It will be published in the larger Golden Age format.

In 27, the "27 Club" admits only the most brilliant musicians and artists -- and kills them dead in their 27^th year. Will Garland is a famous rock guitarist, secretly unable to play for months due to a neurological disorder afflicting his left hand. He's also 27. With mad scientists, long dead rock legends, and cosmic entities in his way, can he make it to 28?

27 #1 (of 4), a 32-page, full-color comic book in the Golden Age format, will be in stores November 10^th, 2010.
---
Editor's Note:
For those of you who advance order (which I highly suggest for several reasons), 27 will not be available until next month. I am trying to develop a system that helps me post press releases closer to their actual release date, but things have been working against me lately (computers, health, even finding the best e-mail programs, et.al.), so bear with me. Actually, more to the point, would you guys rather I just go ahead and publish them as they come to me, or hold on to them a little longer?

© C Harris Lynn, 2010

Banned Family Guy Episode Headed to DVD

Last year, Fox network decided that an episode of Family Guy entitled "Partial Terms of Endearment" was too racy for broadcast and pulled it from the schedule. The "banned" episode will now be made available on DVD for $15.00.

The episode find Lois agreeing to be a surrogate mother for a couple who later dies, leaving the Griffins to decide the child's fate. Some who have seen the episode claim it is evident that "Partial Terms of Endearment" was obviously never going to make it past the censors, leading some to conclude that the entire thing was designed simply to boost sales of the eventual DVD release.

Family Guy "Partial Terms of Endearment" will be available on DVD September 28^th.

© C Harris Lynn, 2010

Famed Anime Director, Satoshi Kon, Dead at 46

Satoshi Kon, a renowned anime director whose titles include Perfect Blue, Paprika, and Tokyo Godfathers, lost his battle with pancreatic cancer. He passed away Tuesday, August 24^th, 2010. Kon had been working on a feature-length anime film, The Dreaming Machine. The movie's fate is unknown.

Satoshi Kon was told his pancreatic cancer was at Stage 4 in May of this year. He was in great pain and could barely walk. Kon was present enough to write his last thoughts, which journalist, Fernando Ramos, partially translated and posted on his blog.

© C Harris Lynn, 2010

All Hail the Bomb Queen

Berkeley, CA - 25 August 2010 - Just when you thought the streets were safe, Bomb Queen is back to make them dark and dangerous! Bomb Queen takes on the forces of good, confronting the president of the United States himself in BOMB QUEEN VI #2, in stores on November 24^th, 2010.

"Who better to take on the leader of the free world than Bomb Queen?" asks creator Jimmie Robinson. "She's the antithesis of Barack Obama. Bomb Queen will be the worst adversary the Obama administration ever faces!"

In BOMB QUEEN VI, Bomb Queen returns with new twists and mayhem when President Obama attempts to shut down her city of crime. Can Washington D.C. put the evil Queen back in the bottle, or will this be Obama's first comic book defeat? Don't miss the shocking reveal at the end of this issue!

BOMB QUEEN VI #2 (of 4), a 32-page, full-color comic book, will be in stores November 24^th, 2010. Catch-up on the nefarious adventures of Bomb Queen with BOMB QUEEN OMNIBUST HC (MAY090313), BOMB QUEEN TP VOL 1: WOMAN OF MASS DESTRUCTION MAY061724, BOMB QUEEN TP VOL 02: QUEEN OF HEARTS (MAY071859), BOMB QUEEN TP VOL 03: BOMBSHELL (NOV072023), BOMB QUEEN TP VOL 04: SUICIDE BOMBER (FEB082126), and BOMB QUEEN TP VOL 05 BOMBASTIC (JAN092414).

© C Harris Lynn, 2010

Shadowland: Ghost Rider #1

© C Harris Lynn, 2010

Skullkickers

© C Harris Lynn, 2010

Walking Dead Trailer

© C Harris Lynn, 2010

RIP: Edward Kean - Head Writer, Howdy Doody

85-year-old Edward Kean, former head writer of the children's classic TV show, Howdy Doody, died August 13^th from emphysema. Kean not only served as the head writer, he also wrote the Howdy Doody theme song, and is even credited with coining the word, "kowabunga."

One family friend called Kean "prolific" and said "He influenced an entire generation [Baby Boomers] through his writing." Howdy Doody aired on NBC from 1947 to 1960. Edward Kean wrote for the show for seven years, leaving in 1954.

© C Harris Lynn, 2010

The World Still Needs Heroes

© C Harris Lynn, 2010

Marvel Comics Shipping 08-25-10

Here we go, boys and girls, your weekly Rundown of Marvel Comics, hitting shelves tomorrow, August 25^th, 2010:

Comics On-Sale:
ALL-NEW WOLVERINE SAGA
AMAZING SPIDER-MAN #638 2ND PRINTING VARIANT (OMT)
AMAZING SPIDER-MAN PRESENTS: AMERICAN SON #4
ASTONISHING X-MEN #35
AVENGERS #4
AVENGERS #4 JRJR CHARACTER VARIANT
AVENGERS #4 WOMEN OF MARVEL FRAME VARIANT
BLACK WIDOW #5
CAPTAIN AMERICA #609
CAPTAIN AMERICA #609 WOMEN OF MARVEL FRAME VARIANT
CAPTAIN AMERICA: THE 1940S NEWSPAPER STRIP #3
DARK WOLVERINE #90
DEADPOOL TEAM-UP #890
DREAM LOGIC #2
FANTASTIC FOUR #582 (HA)
HEROIC AGE: PRINCE OF POWER #4
NAMOR: THE FIRST MUTANT #1
NAMOR: THE FIRST MUTANT #1 QUESADA SKETCH VARIANT
NAMOR: THE FIRST MUTANT #1 QUESADA VARIANT
PUNISHER MAX: HAPPY ENDING #1
SCARLET #1 2ND PRINTING VARIANT
SECRET WARRIORS #19 (HA)
SENSE & SENSIBILITY #4
SHADOWLAND: MOON KNIGHT #1
SPIDER-GIRL: THE END! #1
SPIDER-MAN #5
THE THANOS IMPERATIVE #2 2ND PRINTING VARIANT
THOR #613
ULTIMATE COMICS MYSTERY #2
X-CAMPUS #3
X-FACTOR #208
X-MEN FOREVER 2 #6
X-MEN LEGACY #239
X-MEN LEGACY #239 WOMEN OF MARVEL FRAME VARIANT
X-MEN: CURSE OF THE MUTANTS - BLADE #1
X-MEN: CURSE OF THE MUTANTS - STORM & GAMBIT #1
X-MEN: CURSE OF THE MUTANTS - STORM & GAMBIT #1 BACHALO VARIANT

Collections On-Sale:
ESSENTIAL HULK VOL. 6 TPB
MARVEL MASTERWORKS: ATLAS ERA TALES OF SUSPENSE VOL. 3 HC
MARVEL MASTERWORKS: ATLAS ERA TALES OF SUSPENSE VOL. 3 HC VARIANT (DM ONLY)
MARVEL MASTERWORKS: SGT. FURY VOL. 3 HC
MARVEL MASTERWORKS: SGT. FURY VOL. 3 HC VARIANT (DM ONLY)
MARVEL MASTERWORKS: THE SILVER SURFER VOL. 2 TPB
MARVEL MASTERWORKS: THE SILVER SURFER VOL. 2 TPB VARIANT (DM ONLY)
MOON KNIGHT: COUNTDOWN TO DARK PREMIERE HC
MOON KNIGHT: COUNTDOWN TO DARK PREMIERE HC VARIANT (DM ONLY)
MS. MARVEL VOL. 9: BEST YOU CAN BE TPB
RUNAWAYS VOL. 11: HOMESCHOOLING DIGEST
SECRET INVASION HC
SIEGE: THUNDERBOLTS PREMIERE HC
STRANGE TALES TPB
SUPREME POWER: CONTACT TPB
TALES OF THE DRAGON GUARD PREMIERE HC
THOR: SON OF ASGARD TPB
THOR: THE WARRIORS THREE PREMIERE HC
THOR: THE WARRIORS THREE PREMIERE HC (DM ONLY)
ULTIMATE SPIDER-MAN ULTIMATE COLLECTION BOOK 3 TPB
WOLVERINE ORIGINS: SEVEN THE HARD WAY TPB
X-MEN: INFERNO CROSSOVERS HC

*HA = Heroic Age tie-in
*OMT = One Moment in Time

© C Harris Lynn, 2010

She-Hulks #1

© C Harris Lynn, 2010

Martin Short's Wife, Nancy Dolman, Dead at 58

Martin Short's wife, actress Nancy Dolman, died suddenly Saturday at age 58. Dolman was diagnosed with cancer in 2007 and underwent surgery that year. The Los Angeles Fire Department responded to the couple's home Saturday morning and stayed for 30 minutes before departing.

Dolman, best known for her recurring role on the classic TV sit-com, Soap, married Short in 1980, then retired in 1985 to focus on raising the couple's three children. Short is best known for his one-year tenure on Saturday Night Live, where his most popular character was Ed Grimley. He is also known for his work in films such as The Three Amigos and Father of the Bride. He was recently nominated for an Emmy as Best Supporting Actor for his work on FX' Damages.

© C Harris Lynn, 2010

Heavy Duty Work Schedule

I'm still working on getting things together over here. It's one thing to lose a computer, but it's quite another to lose a computer when you don't have anything backed-up! It really isn't that bad; I only had the laptop for about six months, so it isn't like when the XP went down (I'd had it for seven years!). Actually, I've been fairly lucky where this is concerned, as I'd backed-up the XP box a few weeks before it failed, and I'd backed-up the Vista box a month or so before it was destroyed, but I hadn't even gotten everything loaded onto the laptop when it popped. The majority of what I lost was bookmarks, settings and preferences, and the like -- and, to be honest, I'm not sure how you go about backing-up that kind of stuff, anyway.

I have a handful of contemplative (for lack) posts I'm working to get out to you. These are more thoughtful articles which require some research and grammatical/linguistical precision, and can take several hours, even days, to complete, but are definitely worth it. It's a little depressing to spend so much time on these posts and get no feedback (and even fewer hits), but they often find life somewhere down the road due to one factor or another. There are a lot of blogs that post the same press releases (we all get them from the same companies), and the more thoughtful posts are what set us all apart from one another.

Anyway, in order to do all of this, I have to download/install all the programs, add-ons, and so forth, that I had on the other computer(s), then adjust the settings/preferences to accommodate my needs, and all of this takes time -- especially when you have to do this in a specific order. So, we're getting there, but I still need time.

© C Harris Lynn, 2010

Chew #13 - Second-Printing

© C Harris Lynn, 2010

Star Trek, B5 Alumnus, Walter Koenig, Coming to Bluewater

Known to Star Trek fans everywhere as Ensign Pavel Chekov, comic books is the next frontier for Walter Koenig to conquer. The noted actor, writer, and director recently completed a deal with independent comic publisher, Bluewater Productions, to pen a new limited mini-series, as well as repackage and redistribute an earlier comic book project as a graphic novel.

According to Koenig, the mini-series, Things to Come, will present a fresh perspective on a post-apocalyptic world in which vampires are the dominant species. GMB Chomichuk is handling the covers, with interiors by Nathan Ooten. "It's quite epic," Darren G. Davis, Bluewater Publisher, said. "Fans of the genre might think they have seen this premise before, but Koenig's vision for this is unique, creative, and impactful. I am very excited to be a part of this project."

In addition to the four-issue release, tentatively scheduled to debut next spring, Bluewater will repackage Koenig’s first foray into comics: a three-issue series called Raver. Raver, originally published in the early 1990’s at Malibu Comics, should hit comic book stores and online outlets in 2011. The Raver TPB collects the entire run, along with new material, including a new cover by Gregg Paulsen.

Raver follows the trials of a reality-bending hero whose psychotic episodes create a nightmare world with real villains and victims. And Norman Walters (Raver) moves from one twisted reality to the next, trying to return to his original, safe and stable, existence.

Koenig’s entertainment career has spanned more than five decades. Gaining fame as the aforementioned Chekov in the original Star Trek series, Koenig has appeared in more than 100 roles in television and movies, including the recurring villain, Alfred Bester, on sci-fi favorite, Babylon 5. Koenig is also a respected screenwriter and stage director.

"I'm very pleased to be onboard with Bluewater. I anticipate an exciting professional relationship, and the opportunity to tell stories with style and artistry," Koenig said.

© C Harris Lynn, 2010

Shadowland: Blood on the Streets #2

© C Harris Lynn, 2010

Aniston's Slip of the Tongue Causes Retards to Overreact

Friends alum, Jennifer Aniston, has come under fire for her use of the word "retard" on Live with Regis & Kelly yesterday. Aniston's comment was meant to be funny -- it was an offhanded, self-deprecating pejorative: Regis said Aniston was "playing dress-up," to which Aniston replied, "Yes, I play dress up. I do it for a living... like a retard."

No sooner had the word left her mouth than Peter Berns, CEO of a nonprofit (don't buy it) advocate for people with developmental disabilities, started stirring-up shit. Berns called Aniston's comment, "extraordinarily offensive and inappropriate." Comment is italicized because there is no offensive comment; the word, "retard," is what Berns considers offensive. This is important because it proves that Peter Berns is literarily retarded. Berns either misses the point entirely, or is just a complete asshole; this is simply a way for him to draw attention to himself and his organization, and he should publicly thank Jennifer Aniston for providing him this opportunity.

"Retarded" literally means slow to develop, or underdeveloped. While it is most often associated with people who suffer from developmental retardation, it is accurate to say that I am somewhat socially retarded. While "retarded" is an adjective, the noun, "retard," is an acceptable (linguistically) corruption of the original word; "He's socially retarded," and, "He's a social retard," mean the same thing. Only an asshole would refer to people with developmental problems as "retards," but saying they are "retarded" is perfectly acceptable -- do you know why?

Because they are retarded.

Retarded people rarely know what "retard" or "retarded" mean, and the only way they learn it is when someone tells them they should be offended by it. That's not a joke; someone has to tell them to be offended by the word, because they don't know they should be. Because they are developmentally deficient, or... retarded. They also rarely watch TV, much less Live with Regis & Kelly, so it's doubtful any retarded person even heard Jennifer Aniston say it.

This Peter Berns is simply looking to drum-up publicity and donations for his organization and the only person who should be offended here is Jennifer Aniston.

© C Harris Lynn, 2010

Lohan Determined to be Mentally, Physically Healthy

Not that one, the really effed-up one. No, not that one either; Lindsay. Lindsay Lohan -- has been found "physically and mentally healthy," though by whom remains unknown. Her lawyer spoke to reporters, but said any information about LiLo, aside from that, is "confidential."

Further, sources are saying Lindsay Lohan was misdiagnosed with ADHD early in her childhood. They believe her use of prescribed Adderall had the opposite effect: Because Lindsay does not suffer from ADHD, the medicine "[drove her] off the rails," Dr. John Sharp, a neuropsychologist at UCLA told reporters.

Adderall is a "close cousin" of methamphetamine, and its effects are very similar. Dr. Sharp also noted that Adderall "can destabilize you and make you more prone to mood swings." He also said it was "dangerous," but discontinuing its use is easy with professional help.

© C Harris Lynn, 2010

Matt Fraction's Casanova #3

© C Harris Lynn, 2010

Uncanny X-Force Day

Marvel is proud to announce Uncanny X-Force Day and wants to celebrate with YOU, the fans, on Wednesday, October 6^th! After Cyclops disbands Wolverine’s black-ops group, Logan assembles a brand new team to face a deadly new threat, courtesy of fan-favorite creators, Rick Remender and Jerome Opena! Mark your calendars and be the first person on your block to score great Uncanny X-Force Day commemorative items like an exclusive Uncanny X-Force print featuring the team’s first appearance in the hit series Second Coming, exclusive variants, mini-posters, and more! Plus, fans can’t miss the chance to add their own heroes to the Uncanny X-Force lineup by sketching on the Uncanny X-Force #1 Blank Variant!

Plus, Marvel would like to thank participating retailers with a special advance screening edition of Uncanny X-Force #1 Premiere Variant! This limited-edition comic, won’t be made available to the general public or retailers not participating in this exciting event!

Retailers, check the Marvel Mailer for information on how to acquire festive party invitations, and all the other special edition party favors and be sure to sign up by 9/9. Additionally, the Marvel Retailer Resource Center and Diamond Retailer Site will feature special marketing items—such as customizable press releases, shelf talkers, cake toppers and flyers—exclusive to Uncanny X-Force Day.

On October 6^th, the get ready for an all-new, all-deadly Uncanny X-Force!

© C Harris Lynn, 2010

Valkyrie #1

© C Harris Lynn, 2010

Bluewater, Shatner Quest for Tomorrow

Bluewater Productions continues its successful partnership with actor William Shatner when it releases its new four-issue miniseries, Quest for Tomorrow, this September.

This new science-fiction adventure series follows Bluewater's highly successful TekWar Chronicles: Plague of Ghosts, a four-issue series that brought Shatner's pouplar TekWar novels to the pages of comic books for the first time.

The new series, written by David McIntee and drawn by Joey Mason, follows the adventures of Jim Endicott. When Endicott celebrates his 16^th birthday, he finds himself hurled into a series of new worlds. Along the way, he becomes the hunted as he races for his life across a seemingly endless span of worlds. Endicott soon discovers that the people who've populated his life so far aren't quite who they seem. Then again, Endicott also learns that the same holds true for him.

Shatner guided the editorial and art processes on this series, just as he did with TekWar Chronicles: Plague of Ghosts. “I've always been fascinated by comic books and the way they've been evolving over the years,” Shatner said. “To me, comic books are like heightened movies mixed with a little radio. QUEST FOR TOMORROW joins the highly successful TEK WAR series as my next venture in comic books. It's exciting, timely, and entertaining. I hope you enjoy it.”

“Our partnership with Mr. Shatner has been extremely successful so far, and I'm looking forward to developing new titles with him,” Davis said. “Who wouldn't enjoy working with a true icon of television?”

The first issue of Quest for Tomorrow will be available in comic book shops and online at Amazon.com and other retailers in late September. The cover price for this 32-page issue is $3.99.

© C Harris Lynn, 2010

Steven Tyler To Sit Idol

A spokesperson for Steven Tyler says the Aerosmith frontman will take a seat on American Idol's panel of judges. American Idol has not officially announced Tyler's addition to the show, and the source is not authorized to publicly comment further, but said there is "no reason to refute" it. Neither FOX nor producers for the show would comment.

At this time, Randy Jackson is the only returning, original judge, as DioGuardi, Cowell, and DeGeneres are all departing and Paula Abdul quit American Idol some time back.

© C Harris Lynn, 2010

X-Men #3

© C Harris Lynn, 2010

Getting Back on My Feet

Hey guys, there's been a lot going on the last week or so and I'm still getting everything back together -- learning this computer, configuring it, finding my old software, and so on -- so gimme a bit to get it all going. My sleep is all out of wack, as well, so there's that.

© C Harris Lynn, 2010

Thor: First Thunder

© C Harris Lynn, 2010

APA Deems Modern Superheroes Unhealthy

In a symposium entitled Boyhood — Making and Resisting Masculinity, speakers made the argument that current superheroes are sarcastic and hyper-aggressive without extolling the virtues of doing good for humanity. Dr. Carol Lamb, PhD, said the comic book superheroes of yesteryear were those readers could admire, while the current crop is simply caustic. Her research lead her to conclude that the media and marketers have funneled boyhood into two categories: Player and Slacker.

Dr. Lamb and her colleagues determined that this narrow marketing model can actually damage adolescent boys by forcing their development into a bottleneck. She and her team believe young boys need to be taught to see through the hype at an earlier age, when they are less likely to internalize a masculine attitude. As boys grow older, they begin to distance themselves from their friends and support groups, and it is at this age that they begin to adopt more closed-off personalities and these hyper-aggressive role models seem to have more damaging an affect on their psyches.

The good thing is, these results appear to apply to boys of all racial makeup, indicating the problem is with the imagery and iconography, and not based on race. Socio-economic factors were not mentioned in the article.

© C Harris Lynn, 2010

RiffTrax' Reefer Madness Live Event This Weekend!

© C Harris Lynn, 2010

Be Back Shortly

Well, I got a new computer -- a desktop again this time (I plan on having the laptop repaired, I say hopefully) -- but am still working on getting it up and running, preferenced, and so forth. Gimme a few to get this together here and enjoy the archives in the meantime! Thanks.

© C Harris Lynn, 2010

Lightning Strikes Twice

Fucking lightning blew-up the modem AND the new laptop Saturday morning. I just got the new modem in today, but didn't feel like fooling with it until a bit ago. I am writing you from the old old computer. See you tomorrow, though I've no idea what I can and cannot access on here anymore.

© C Harris Lynn, 2010

Rained-Out

FINALLY got some rain, which brought the temperature down from about 107° (heat index) to 89° (on the computer), but it was a pretty rough thunderstorm and kept knocking the power out, so we'll pick back up tomorrow.

© C Harris Lynn, 2010

Arasto Maree Named EVP of Creative Development of Bluewater Film/TV

Bluewater Productions, an award-winning, top-twenty comic book publisher is proud to announce Arastao "Aha" Maree as their new Executive V.P. of Creative Development. The announcement was made today by Darren G. Davis, Chief Executive Officer of Bluewater Productions, to whom Aha will report.

In this newly created position, Aha, 32, will be in charge of repurposing Bluewater's extensive library of content for theatrical, television, new media, and videogame production. His position also includes the development of new titles for cross-media platforms.

Previously, Aha served as a key-producer for HOPSports Inc. where, in three years, he has developed and produced over 30 titles for their innovative and exclusive media distribution platform, the HOPSports training system. During his tenure, the company received honorable mention from Michelle Obama and is currently approaching Global status as a production company. Before joining HOPSports, Aha served as creative consultant for Danish Film Production company, Little Womachine, as well as Development Executive at Stevens and Associates, and has worked as a post-production marketing producer for Sony Playstation.

"Aha, brings such a diverse range of experience and knowledge of the entertainment industry, that our choice to have him join the team was an easy one. He has literally done it all, which is why I know he is going to make an amazing and well-rounded creative executive. His unmatched passion for creating great partnerships and learning new skills -- all while exploring the full creative potential of a project -- will take us where we want to be," Darren G. Davis, CEO, Bluewater Productions said.

"I am truly excited about joining the Bluewater Team. Our new, original intellectual properties such as Insane Jane, Nanny & Hank, 10^th Muse, COOL27, and Gearz are arresting ideas with progressive commercial appeal. Bluewater is clearly on a march toward being a viable source of content for all media outlets. And this is just the beginning." -- Arastao "Aha" Maree

© C Harris Lynn, 2010

Is the Black Panther the Next Man Without Fear?

© C Harris Lynn, 2010

FX Orders Star Trek Spoof from Reno 911! Creators

FX has ordered a sci-fi/comedy pilot from Reno 911!'s Thomas Lennon and Ben Garant entitled Alabama, which follows the crew of the starship USS Alabama across the galaxies on a seven-year mission for interplanetary peace. Like Reno 911!, Alabama features a blend of scripted and improvised scenes and has been described by Reuters as "an unofficial Star Trek parody."

© C Harris Lynn, 2010

Shadowland: Moon Knight #1

© C Harris Lynn, 2010

Girl School - C'mon, Let's Go!

© C Harris Lynn, 2010

Who Will Be the Man Without Fear?

© C Harris Lynn, 2010

Eddie Munster's Dating a Cheerleader

Forty-five years after 10-year-old Donna McCall sent a letter to Butch Patrick, then star of the TV classic, The Munsters, the two are living together in West Chester, PA. McCall told reporters she read something online that reminded her of her schoolgirl crush, so she looked-up the star's e-mail address and they began chatting. The two then agreed to meet at Pennsylvania's horror convention, DraculaCon. Earlier this year, Patrick gave up his homes in Los Angeles and Florida to move-in with McCall, a former Philadelphia Eagles' cheerleader.

© C Harris Lynn, 2010

Arrested Development Movie News

Arrested Development creator, Mitch Hurwitz, says the script for the movie is "halfway through." He says the process has been slow because of... us! Hurwitz says he is "cagey" because he really wants to please the fans, as well as the cast. "It's not going to be a big money-maker; it's going to be fun, like a family reunion."

Hurwitz also mentioned that scheduling could be an issue in getting the original cast together. He refused to give any more information on the Arrested Development movie, saying even a title or logline would give "too much away."

Hurwitz spoke at the Television Critics Association press tour yesterday, where he appeared to discuss his new Fox show, Running Wilde.

© C Harris Lynn, 2010

Fantastic Four: Three, Pt. 1 (#583)

© C Harris Lynn, 2010

Gen Con This Weekend

As you may have noticed from the banners to the right and across the site, the majorest of RPG conventions gets underway this very weekend, as GenCon officials are already at the site, preparing for the big event.

If you are anywhere near Indianapolis, or want to be, make sure to check it out. We'll bring you more as we hear it, including a recap. If you happen to be attending, please drop us a line and let us know what's happening!

© C Harris Lynn, 2010

Avengers #4

© C Harris Lynn, 2010

The Return of Sea Bear & Grizzly Shark

Image Comics gets mixed up again with the second printing of SEA BEAR & GRIZZLY SHARK

Berkeley, CA - 3 August 2010 - Just when you thought it was safe to wander through the woods and go skinny dipping at the beach, Jason Howard (THE ASTOUNDING WOLF-MAN) and Ryan Ottley (INVINCIBLE) showed you otherwise with the sold out SEA BEAR & GRIZZLY SHARK.

To reinforce the fear of mixed up and violent wildlife, Image Comics is reprinting SEA BEAR & GRIZZLY SHARK! This 48-page black and white comic book will be available August 4^th.

Do not go out at night: GRIZZLY SHARK lurks in these woods. There are many dangers of the deep, but none so deadly as SEA BEAR! Thrill to the adventures of these two exciting new characters, told in two full-length stories and featuring a special prose origin story written by ROBERT KIRKMAN!

The second printing of SEA BEAR & GRIZZLY SHARK, a book that Ain't It Cool News describes as having "...exceptional art and a wildly unique story you simply won't find anywhere else," will be available August 4^th, 2010.

© C Harris Lynn, 2010

Olivia Newton-John Bio to Support Breast Cancer Awareness

Actress and singer Olivia Newton-John survived her battle with breast cancer and has now devoted her life to helping other women beat this disease. This makes Newton-John the ideal subject of Bluewater Production's Female Force line of biography comics.

Female Force: Olivia Newton-John will hit comic book shops and online retailers such as Amazon.com in October. The comic will not only trace the four-time Grammy award winner's rise to stardom, it will generate funds for breast cancer research, with a portion of the book's proceeds going to the "Olivia Newton-John Cancer Centre."

The comic's October release is no coincidence; that month is National Breast Cancer Awareness Month. In honor of this, Susan G. Komen for the Cure, the nation's leading breast-cancer awareness group, will provide a breast cancer resource guide with the comic. "Breast cancer, in the beginning, was hard to talk about. So it takes a while before you can put it into a category that you can discuss without becoming emotional," Olivia Newton John told Bluewater about her coming out publicly about breast cancer.

Newton-John worked with Bluewater and writer Sandra Ruckdeschel on the comic's script. Ruckdeschel said that working on the story was an experience that she'll never forget. “What I learned most about Olivia Newton-John after researching her life and writing about her is her love for humanity,” Ruckdeschel said. “She has such a huge heart, and wants to share that with the rest of the world. Her fight against breast cancer displays that well: She survived her own battle with it and, rather than going on with her life as usual, she took it as a sign that she is meant to help others in their battle with the disease.”

Ruckdeschel's script traces Newton-John's career from her starring role alongside John Travolta in the hit musical film Grease to her ode to aerobics, Physical. “Olivia Newton-John has had an amazing career,” said Darren Davis, founder and president of Bluewater Productions. “Her greatest victory, though, came in 1992, when she survived her battle with breast cancer. We are happy to work with her on this comic and to hopefully play at least a small role in the fight against breast cancer.”

Bluewater Productions publishes a wide range of comics, from superheroes to horror, to children's tales, to its much-discussed line of biography comics. Past biography comics from Bluewater have focused on the lives of Hillary Clinton, Barack Obama, George Bush, Nancy Pelosi, Robert Pattinson, and Michael Jackson. Ruckdeschel says that Newton-John is a particularly fitting subject for the Female Force series.

“I idolized Olivia Newton-John before working on this project,” she said. “After learning even more about her I see her for the beautiful human being that she is. That is why she is a valiant subject for the Female Force series.”

© C Harris Lynn, 2010

Who Will Be the Man Without Fear?

© C Harris Lynn, 2010

Marvel Comics Shipping 08-04-10

Here it is, all, your weekly Rundown of Marvel Comics hitting shelves tomorrow, August 4^th, 2010:

Comics On-Sale:
AMAZING SPIDER-MAN #639 (OMT)
AMAZING SPIDER-MAN #639 QUESADA VARIANT (OMT)
AMAZING SPIDER-MAN #639 SKETCH VARIANT (OMT)
AVENGERS PRIME #2
AVENGERS, THOR & CAPTAIN AMERICA: OFFICIAL INDEX TO THE MARVEL UNIVERSE #4
AVENGERS: THE ORIGIN #5
CAPTAIN AMERICA #608
CAPTAIN AMERICA: FOREVER ALLIES #1
CASANOVA #2
DAREDEVIL BLACK & WHITE #1
DARKSTAR AND THE WINTER GUARD #3
DEADPOOL #1000
DEADPOOL: WADE WILSON'S WAR #3
DEATH OF DRACULA #1 2ND PRINTING VARIANT
DOOMWAR #6
ELECTRIC ANT #5
GORILLA MAN #2
HAWKEYE & MOCKINGBIRD #2 2ND PRINTING VARIANT
HAWKEYE & MOCKINGBIRD #3
HERCULES: TWILIGHT OF A GOD #3
HIT-MONKEY #2
IRON MAN LEGACY #5
MARVEL UNIVERSE VS. THE PUNISHER #1
MARVELMAN FAMILY'S FINEST #2
MARVELMAN FAMILY'S FINEST #2 PERKINS VARIANT
NEW MUTANTS FOREVER #1 SIENKIEWICZ COVER
ORSON SCOTT CARD'S ENDER IN EXILE #3
S.H.I.E.L.D. #3
S.H.I.E.L.D. #3 HISTORICAL VARIANT
SECRET WARRIORS #18 (HA)
SHADOWLAND #2
SHADOWLAND #2 CASSADAY VARIANT
SHADOWLAND: BULLSEYE #1
SPIDER-MAN/FANTASTIC FOUR #2
SPITFIRE #1
THE STAND: HARDCASES #3
THOR: THE RAGE OF THOR #1
THUNDERBOLTS #145 2ND PRINTING VARIANT (HA)
ULTIMATE COMICS AVENGERS 2 #6
YOUNG ALLIES #3

Collections On-Sale:
AVENGERS/INVADERS TPB
CAPTAIN AMERICA: THEATER OF WAR TPB
DARK TOWER: THE BATTLE OF JERICHO HILL PREMIERE HC
ESSENTIAL CAPTAIN AMERICA VOL. 1 TPB (ALL-NEW EDITION)
HULK: FALL OF THE HULKS - THE SAVAGE SHE-HULKS TPB
LUKE CAGE NOIR GN-TPB
PUNISHER MAX: NAKED KILLS TPB
SPIDER-MAN: THE GAUNTLET VOL. 4 - JUGGERNAUT PREMIERE HC

Posters On-Sale:
SECRET WARRIORS BY CHEUNG POSTER

*HA = Heroic Age tie-in
*OMT = One Moment in Time
*SHL = Shadowland tie-in
*WWHS = World War Hulks tie-in

© C Harris Lynn, 2010

Amazing Spider-Man #640 - Quesada Variant

© C Harris Lynn, 2010

Sick

Hi guys. I'm sorry for being away, but I got a 24-hour bug. I was sick for several hours and am still running an incredibly high fever, but (God willing) I'm on the other side of it. I also screwed-up William's account trying to give him permissions to help change the layout, so he couldn't cover for me.

Anyway, the worst appears to be over, I'm just sore as hell and all.

© C Harris Lynn, 2010

Kevin Smith is 40 - For Real This Time

A while back, we brought you the post that Kevin Smith -- writer/director of movies such as Mallrats and Chasing Amy -- had his 37^th birthday. We were wrong; Kevin Smith had his 37^th birthday about three years ago today. Today is, according to Kevin Smith himself, Kevin Smith's 40^th birthday.

He is now officially "Over the Hill" in birthday card parlance. He will also be performing at the Count Basie Theatre tonight!

© C Harris Lynn, 2010