Wednesday, February 26, 2014

The Trial of Jean Grey Rages On in GUARDIANS OF THE GALAXY #12

Marvel is pleased to present your first look at GUARDIANS OF THE GALAXY #12, from the rock star creative team of Brian Michael Bendis and Sara Pichelli! Jean Grey has been abducted by the Shi’ar Empire – accused of cataclysmic crimes she has yet to commit. But not all is as it seems. How are Star-Lord’s malevolent father and the Spartax Empire involved? Now, as the Guardians of the Galaxy  and the All-New X-Men race to the edge of the deep space to rescue her – they’ll enlist the help of some very unlikely allies. One of whom will have world shattering consequences for one of the All-New X-Men! But even they may not be enough to stop the most powerful army in the Universe. Don’t miss the encounter that will have everyone buzzing today in GUARDIANS OF THE GALAXY #12!

Witness the Death of a Universe in UNCANNY AVENGERS #17

 the Earth shattering Ragnarok Now arc reaches it staggering conclusion in UNCANNY AVENGERS #17 – from blockbuster writer Rick Remender and critically acclaimed artist Steve McNiven! The Earth has been sentenced to die. Obliterated at the hands of the Celestial Executioner. The Apocalypse Twins’ final revenge against Kang the Conqueror is complete – at the cost of the entire universe! Fractured, broken, and destroyed, the remaining Uncanny Avengers must assemble for one final stand. But are they too late? One planet dies. Another lives. Witness the birth of…PLANET X! Do not miss the issue everyone will be talking about when UNCANNY AVENGERS #17



Tuesday, February 25, 2014

School is Out! First Look at WOLVERINE & THE X-MEN #42

Close out the school year in style with a Graduation Day to remember in WOLVERINE & THE X-MEN #42! They’ve fought monsters, aliens, the Hellfire Club, and even their own school building – but now, the inaugural class of the Jean Grey School prepares to leave their hallowed halls behind. That is, if they survive that long! Fan favorite writer Jason Aaron ends his critically acclaimed run with one last bombastic issue – and he’s bringing some friends! Wolverine & The X-Men artists past and present return to school for one last tearful goodbye, including Chris Bachalo, Nick Bradshaw, Ramón Pérez, Pepe Larraz and Steve Sanders. And if that’s not enough Shawn Crystal (DEADPOOL) and Nuno Alves (MARVEL FAIRY TALES) join in on the fun! Plus, a surprise taste of the new volume of Wolverine & The X-Men #1 from new series writer Jason Latour that will have you begging for more! Where do the graduates go from here? Who stays? Who goes? And who survives? Find out this February as Jason Aaron brings his blockbuster series to a close in WOLVERINE & THE X-MEN #42

Sins and Secrets Revealed in ORIGIN II #3

 Blockbuster writer Kieron Gillen and rock star artist Adam Kubert peel back another layer in Wolverine’s shadowy past – and today, Marvel is pleased to present your first look at ORIGIN II #3! Witness the very first meeting of the mysterious mutant and the man who would become one of his greatest enemies – the malevolent Mr. Sinister! Broken and savage, the clawed mutant has been pulled back into the world of civilization – by force! Brutally beaten and held captive, the ferocious first “X-Man” is forcibly experimented on by Nathaniel Essex and his Marauders.  And the only man who can save him is…Creed?!

But amid the horrors visited upon him, James Howlett may find the one thing he thought lost forever – his humanity. At some point the Wolverine must choose: is he man or beast? What shocking revelations lie in the untold story of Wolverine’s past?



Monday, February 24, 2014

The Ultimate Universe Will Never Be the Same After CATACLYSM: THE ULTIMATES' LAST STAND #5

 Marvel is pleased to present your first look at CATACLYSM: THE ULTIMATES’ LAST STAND #5 – the universe shattering conclusion! From rock star creators Brian Michael Bendis and Mark Bagley – New York City lays a smoldering ruin. Fractured, broken, and dead – the remaining Ultimates stand on the precipice of destruction, consumed by Galactus, the Devourer of Worlds! Galactus’ World Eating machine is complete. With mere minutes left, the heroes of Earth must are out of time and out of options. Sacrifices must be made – and not everyone is coming back. Who lives? Who dies? It’s Galactus vs. The Ultimates – and the winner will shock the Ultimate Universe to its core! After this, nothing will ever be the same again. Time is up this February in CATACLYSM: THE ULTIMATES’ LAST STAND #5

Sunday, February 23, 2014

A Legend Reborn – Your First Look at MIRACLEMAN #3

 It’s the story everyone is talking about – and today, Marvel is proud to present your first look at the newly remastered MIRACLEMAN #3! The series that changed comics forever has finally returned to comic shops – and now is your chance to experience these stories like never before!

Arguably the most significant work in postmodern superhero comics is finally available
– Newsarama.com

As resonant now as it was 30 years ago
– ComicVine.com

Miracleman reinterpreted the entire idea of heroes
– CraveOnline.com

Miracleman comes face to face with a shocking enemy. Will he survive, or will London burn? A mysterious stranger with a sapphire grin stalks Mickey Moran. Meet the sinister Mr. Cream. And find out what he wants with Miracleman! Plus, who are the Warpsmiths? See for yourself as these strange warriors battle for their alien homeworld.

Already garnering rave reviews, MIRACLEMAN is a must-read for any comic fan.  Long out-of-print, these timeless, groundbreaking stories are considered some of the most profound influences on modern comics still felt today. In addition to material originally published in Warrior Magazine, MIRACLEMAN #3 also contains new behind the scenes material about the making of this historic and iconic series. Don’t missMIRACLEMAN #3

Saturday, February 22, 2014

The Fall of the First Family Begins in FANTASTIC FOUR #1

 Cosmic explorers – heroes forever united as family. The world’s greatest comic magazine begins anew as Marvel’s First Family bursts back into the spotlight in FANTASTIC FOUR #1, from Eisner Award winning writer James Robinson (Starman, All-New Invaders) and critically acclaimed artist Leonard Kirk (Supergirl, Captain Britain and MI:13)!

The brilliant Mr. Fantastic, the compassionate Invisible Woman, hot-headed Human Torch, and the ever-lovin’ Thing return for a new ongoing series fraught with danger, excitement & intrigue. Only they won’t be met with new beginnings – but an untimely end!

“The team will be brought down,” says James Robinson, in an interview with Marvel.com. “Despite the fact these characters are a family and have always stuck together, there are forces that push them into directions you never thought you’d see.”

“Some rifts will be so big the Fantastic Four may never be the same,” added editor Mark Paniccia, “We’re talking about a serious, hardcore attempt at destroying them…not just on a physical level but emotionally as well.”

As the family of cosmic explorers rushes headlong into their darkest hours, who could possibly be behind their downfall? And how does it involve one of the Fantastic Four’s greatest enemies – the sadistic dragon Fin Fang Foom! “The Fall of the Fantastic Four” begins this February in FANTASTIC FOUR #1

Friday, February 21, 2014

Meet the Bride of Deadpool Today in DEADPOOL: THE GAUNTLET #4

 The mystery is solved! And the blushing bride to be makes her grand entrance today in Deadpool: The Gauntlet #4! Bet you she’s not what you expected! The smash hit weekly Infinite Comic series continues today – and you don’t miss the issue everyone will be talking about!

That mysterious package Deadpool was delivering? It’s not a what – but a who! Long dormant, the dark and mysterious Shiklah has been released upon the Marvel Universe! And though there may be wedding bells in her future with Wade, she’s already betrothed to another – Dracula, Lord of Vampires! And he’s not interested in sharing!

But before the soon-to-be-married Merc with a Mouth can get his head on straight – he’ll need to survive a run in with the one and only Blade! And the world famous vampire hunter has got a thing or two to say about Wade working with Dracula. Don’t miss the digital Deadpool adventure that will have everyone talking with Deadpool: The Gauntlet #4 – available today!
Designed specifically for mobile devices, Infinite Comics showcase the storytelling possibilities of a digital canvas while still staying true to the mediums greatest strengths!



Thursday, February 20, 2014

Review: 'Tomb Raider: Definitive Edition' lives up to its name

Released in early 2013, the gritty reboot of "Tomb Raider" became adored by many. Square Enix decided the new Lara Croft deserved the next-gen treatment, and it is now out on the PS4 and Xbox One.
Titled "Tomb Raider: Definitive Edition," this game should be held to high standards. Playing on the PS4 version, it definitely meets them. It has no problem hitting the 60 frames-per-second benchmark, although there are dips in the more action-packed sequences (the Xbox One version was not tested). Despite that, everything moves very smoothly.
It's a very beautiful game, and the folks at Crystal Dynamics did an amazing job overhauling the lush, vibrant world to make it feel very real, thanks to TressFX technology. Foliage reacts appropriately to the wind and Lara's movements. The lighting effects dazzle the eyes, and the attention to detail like blood, mud and sweat on characters is superb.
Gameplay is basically the same as before. Inspired by Naughty Dog's "Uncharted" series, players will have Lara jumping large gaps, dangling along edges, and brutally dispatching enemies who get in her way. This mostly linear game encourages exploration in more open sections to collect salvage and find hidden artifacts to gain skill points and upgrade abilities and weapons.
Unfortunately, there aren't many tombs to raid, which were a highlight of the classic games. The puzzles aren't difficult either. I kind of wished they focused more on this aspect of Tomb Raider than the multiplayer mode that feels tacked on without any thought.
The story holds its own to the very end, even if the narrative in the beginning doesn't mesh well with Lara's actions. She's scared like no other after being captured, and is very distraught after killing a person for the first time. But afterward, you're brutally killing enemies left and right with ease, so those early traumas become lost in no time.
The "Definitive Edition" also comes with the game's DLC including an optional tomb to raid, alternate costumes, and some multiplayer elements if you're one of the few who enjoys this mode of play.
Other additions are minor, like voice controls if you feel like shouting at the TV instead of using buttons. Recovered artifacts can be rotated onscreen using the PS4 controller's touchpad, and the light bar flickers different colors like red and orange if Lara's holding a torch. It's a neat effect that caught me by surprise.
Here's the big question about "Tomb Raider: Definitive Edition": Is it worth the full retail price of $59.99? Yes and no. It's not worth it to those who've already played the game on last-gen consoles and PC in 2013 since it's essentially a more beautiful version of this game.
However, it's still an excellent reboot, and those who missed out the first time -- and are dying to play something on the brand-new consoles -- should treat themselves to one of the top games of 2013.
3 1/2 stars out of 4

A downloadable code for the PS4 version of "Tomb Raider: Definitive Edition" was supplied by the publisher for this review. Post originally written by Jeff Hoard for Digital First Media, reprinted with permission.

Wednesday, February 19, 2014

Canton, author publishes new novel 'Inconspicuous Love'

“Inconspicuous Love,” a new book by Teresa Stegall, has been released by Dorrance Publishing Co., Inc.
 
It can be seen in the way a mother holds her baby, in the flowers a lover gives, in the touch of a man to his lady, and in the silent tears shed for a special friend, but more often than not, love is more than what the naked eyes can see.
 
Seeing through the subtle core of what love is, Inconspicuous Love unravels a story so tangible that every reader can relate to. This book is more than your typical-love-story, which tackles both the pleasures and the horrors of being in love. Entertaining and informative, Teresa Stegall presents fresh ideas that are fitting for our times.

About the Author:
Being a firm believer of the Lord and in the power of prayer, Teresa Stegall aims to share to the world that life’s complications can be solved with a sincere heart and strong faith. She is deeply involved in charity works and has varied interests, such as skydiving, boating, fishing, and dancing.
 
“Inconspicuous Love” is a 72-page paperback with a retail price of $16.00.

Captain America: The Winter Soldier prelude

Journey into the world of the upcoming summer blockbusterCaptain America: The Winter Solider with an all-new Infinite Comic prelude from legendary writer Peter David (All-New X-Factor, The Incredible Hulk) and rising star artist Rock-He Kim (X-Force, Infinity: Against the Tide)!

Set between the events of Marvel’s The Avengers and the upcoming Marvel’s Captain America: The Winter Soldier, this new Infinite Comic takes you into the world of the Marvel Cinematic Universe with a new adventure setting the stage for one of the biggest films of the year!

In downtown Chicago, a dangerous weapon called The Zodiac has fallen into enemy hands. Now, it’s up to Captain America, along with guest stars Black Widow and Brock Rumlow, to race against time to stop a mysterious terrorist group before it’s too late. All leading up to an action packed confrontation atop Chicago’s tallest skyscraper! But is there more here than
meets the eye? What secrets is S.H.I.E.L.D. keeping? Are there enemies on both sides?

“If you’re a Captain America fan, this all-new adventure is rare sneak peek into the movie we still have to wait over two months for,” said editor Bill Rosemann. “First, you get to see Cap rock his new stealth suit. Also, you’ll see one of his first missions working side-by-side not only with his Avengers teammate Black Widow, but also with Brock Rumlow, whose name should ring some bells. Plus, you get sweet Rock-He Kim artwork in our interactive Infinite Comic format, which is especially suited for the Marvel Cinematic experience. Oh, and how cool is it that it’s all written by fan fave scribe Peter David?”
 

Tuesday, February 18, 2014

Devo guitarist Bob Casale dead at 61

‘Blaxploitation’ queen Pam Grier comes to the Redford this weekend

Pam Grier was never one to turn the other cheek; however, she might turn yours. 
Then again, one could expect no less from arguably cinema’s first female action hero, who is best known for 1972’s “The Big Bird Cage” (produced by B-movie king/Detroit native Roger Corman), 1973’s “Coffy” and 1974’s “Foxy Brown”— all Blaxploitation films. 
“There were quite a few black males that had done work in this genre before me, but as soon as I stepped into the men’s shoes, it became exploitation. This was from the conservative moment that didn’t want me out of the kitchen, and wanted me barefoot and pregnant and wifey. When that happened, they called it ‘Blaxploitation,’” said Grier, 64, of Colorado. 
“I had the skill and confidence to bring my background with me as part of the ongoing global women’s movement that was happening all over the world. I just happened to be one of the first to bring it to film. And it resonated.”
Grier will appear at the Redford Theatre in Detroit for its Pam Grier Film Festival Friday and Saturday (see sidebar). Although she’s been to Detroit before, she’s never been to the Redford and looks forward to it.
“It’s gonna be great. I can’t wait to see it. I love Detroit. I’ve always considered Michigan a great state,” said Grier. “I want to be part of (Detroit’s) rebuilding. It would be great to continue to show my films there… because Detroit has been such a dominating industrial force for so long in the world. To see it stop and now recover is amazing.”
Grier’s place in cinematic history is without question. George Popovich, a film and drama professor at Henry Ford Community College in Dearborn, went a bit further, saying “Blaxploitation films are genre films.”
“Genre films are predicated on the notion that the same type of film keeps getting made again and again until it no longer sells,” he said. “For the genre to continue, it must adapt, change, and offer viewers a new take…  Blaxploitation films represented a successful attempt to alter the formula of the low-budget B-film.”
After the Blaxploitation era ended, Grier appeared in small or supporting parts for a number of years, most notably 1981’s “Fort Apache, The Bronx” and “Above the Law.” She had a recurring role on NBC’s “Miami Vice” and guest-starred on many TV series, including “The Cosby Show,” “The Fresh Prince of Bel Air,” “Martin,” “Mad TV” and “Crime Story.”
Her career experienced a revitalization in 1997 when director Quentin Tarantino cast Grier in the titular role of “Jackie Brown,” an homage to her Blaxploitation roles and based on late Michigan author Elmore Leonard’s novel “Rum Punch.” Grier earned numerous award nominations for “Jackie Brown,” including a Golden Globe. 
“I absolutely adore Quentin. He’s incredible… He’s very observant and what he always says, I try to do better. When people do that for you, that’s the greatest gift. If I never worked again, it was the pinnacle to work with (Quentin),” said Grier. 
Added Popovich: “Tarantino did much to reboot the careers of stars like Grier (and John Travolta) with his films. He made these stars cool again… Grier paved the way for high-end female action stars, such as Angelina Jolie.”
From 2004-09, Grier appeared as Kit Porter on Showtime’s “The L Word” — a drama about lesbians and their circle of friends in West Hollywood — where she was nominated for the NAACP Image Award for Outstanding Supporting Actress in a Drama Series. 
“I had to do ‘The L Word’ because I had no idea the discriminatory practices against the gay community. I didn’t know they couldn’t get benefits, insurance, or have children. You just assume that everyone is equal — and that’s not true,” she said. 
“It was a very extraordinary learning experience. I don’t have gay-dar. I don’t know who’s gay — I don’t care. People are people first. Nobody should have any right to stop people from whom they want to procreate with,” explained Grier. “I had people ask me if I was afraid to do ‘The L Word’ because I might turn gay. I said, ‘No. Do you think I might turn into a horse because I hang around my horse?’ It’s really not catching. A third of our society is gay. Keep people ignorant and they’ll create obstacles and civil unrest. I don’t want to be ignorant; I need to know, I need to learn.”
For three episodes, she played Amanda Waller, a hard-nosed government agent who oversees clandestine operations, on the Superman series “Smallville.” 
“I loved that character. I loved PLAYING her! The universe sent that role to me. I didn’t have to look for it and I’m like, ‘Amanda Waller? Are you kidding me? I’ll do it!’” she recalled.
Grier is currently filming the TV series “Black Hawk,” which is slated to air in late 2014.
“Think ‘Homeland’ and ‘Strikeback’ with a little flavah, a little spice,” described Grier. 
Grier’s as tough as her characters — she’s had to be. She’s been attacked three times in her life — as early as 6 when she was raped by two boys — and was diagnosed with cancer in 1988, where she was given 18 months to live. 
But Grier survived. 
All this was detailed in her 2010 autobiography, “Foxy: My Life in Three Acts.”
“Either I victimize myself or come out the other side. I won’t let it knock me down. It didn’t kill me. There are scares, but I’ve learned from it and I can share that with others,” she said. 
“I’m okay. It made me a better person… a stronger person. I’ve had a boyfriend who said I was tainted. Do you see me unable to get out of bed? No, you see me vibrant, full of life… Life is too short. If I wake up and I’m breathing, I’m gonna have a good day.”

Written by Kurt Krug for Digital First Media, reprinted with permission.

Jim Zub Tackles 'Manga Style' "Red Sonja and Cub" at Dynamite

While Gail Simone's Red Sonja series is scorching hot, Dynamite is presenting a Red Sonja one-shot done as a manga style book! In April of 2014, Red Sonja and Cub will be offered, written by Jim Zub (Pathfinder), drawn by Jonathan Lau, with a cover by Jeffery "Chamba" Cruz! This oversized issue will be available in April from Dynamite Entertainment in comic stores and digital.
In Red Sonja and Cub, blood will rain down upon the snowy ground as the She-Devil With A Sword battles her way across the Asiatic lands of Khitai. In a land of complex family loyalties and death before dishonor, will sharpened steel and the muscle to wield it be enough?
"Getting the chance to write a samurai-style story of savage combat and sacrifice with Red Sonja, one of the heavyweight characters of fantasy, is a real thrill," says Red Sonja and Cub writer Jim Zub. "I'm stoked for people to see the big action-big emotion ride Jonathan and I are putting together for this."

Monday, February 17, 2014

Dynamite Proudly Announces CAPTAIN ACTION CAT: THE TIMESTREAM CATASTROPHE #1, Debuting in April

 From the Eisner and Harvey award-winning, New York Times bestselling famous cartoonists Art Baltazar and Franco comes the crossover epic event of a lifetime! Finally, Captain Action Cat meets Action Cat and the characters from Aw Yeah Comics! Also crossing over with Dark Horse Comics characters such as GhostXCaptain Midnight, and The Occultist, this series promises the typical zaniness that the creators of Tiny Titans are known for. True story!

In Captain Action Cat: The Timestream CATastrophe #1, there is something evil out there and Evil Cat is determined to find it... even if it means searching throughout the Silver Age to do it! Could this blip on the screen be the one known as Doctor Evil Cat? What will happen when the Silver Age and the "Aw Yeah Age" collide! What does this mean to the timestream?  The fate of the comic world may change forever!  Plus, a mysterious frozen souvenir from the Golden Age makes a visit! For the first time ever, The Timestream CATastrophe introduces Captain Action Cat, an anthropomorphic action hero based on the classic action figure / adventure toy,Captain Action!

"All I have to say is: Wow!" says co-writer/artist Art Baltazar. "I am amazed at the comics which we get to create sometimes! Captain Action action figures have been a classic American toy forever, and now that he is back, the world will be a better place!  It's an honor to be working so close to this iconic character… even if our version is a cat. Aw yeah!"

"I feel so lucky to be in this industry and that people are willing to let us play with their toys," adds co-writer Franco!  "This one means quite a bit to me personally because this crossover event features something we created -- Action Cat from our own Aw Yeah Comics -- which we get to crossover with Captain Action (as a cat) and the heroic crew from Dark Horse.  'Wow' is an understatement!  Every year, I think we cannot top what we did before... and I am proven wrong, as this is one of the coolest things I've ever had the privilege to work on!  Aw Yeah, Dynamite!"

"I've gotta say, we've had some fun, high octane, cataclysmic, unbelievable crossovers through the years," states Dynamite CEO / Publisher Nick Barrucci.  "But this crossover will be the most fun! What Art and Franco have put together is just incredible! Bringing together the Aw Yeah universe, the Dark Horse universe, and the Dynamite universe -- this true trifecta is going to be epic.  And did I mention fun?  Aw Yeah!"

Art and Franco have been having a blast with this "Itty Bitty" series. We loved their treatment of Hellboy and I'm particularly eager to see what mayhem they'll inflict on our superheroes." states Dark Horse President and Publisher Mike Richardson. "Ghost and X teamed with Action Cat and Captain Action? Who would have thought?"

"Art and Franco bring a unique and infectious brand of fun to everything they do, and we're thrilled to have them focus on moreCaptain Action adventure with Dynamite in 2014," said Ed Catto, founding partner of Captain Action Enterprises.

Sunday, February 16, 2014

Battlestar Galactica: Six Comic Book Series

 Dynamite and NBCUniversal Television Consumer Products proudly announces the upcoming Battlestar Galactica: Six comic book series, set within the continuity of the reimagined 2003 Battlestar Galacticatelevision series, produced by Universal Cable Productions and featuring one of its most iconic characters, the Cylon model known as Six.  The first chapter of this five-issue miniseries will launch in April 2014, featuring the creative talents of writer J.T. Krul (Justice LeagueFathom), interior artist Igor Vitorino, and cover artists Jenny Frison and Chris Bolson.  A photo cover featuring actress Tricia Helfer will also be available.

"Ever since Dynamite started making Battlestar Galactica comics, I made it very clear that I would leap at the opportunity to write in that universe," says J.T. Krul.  "Not only was I a fan of the original series, but I think the revitalized version developed by Ronald Moore is one the best television shows of the past decade.  Like most great science fiction, Battlestar Galactica teaches us about who we are by showing us where we might end up."

Battlestar Galactica: Six takes place in the days before the last great Cylon War. Locked away in a psychiatric ward on the planet Leonis, a woman known only as Eve is haunted by memories of worlds she's never seen, hazy images of a past full of anguish and death.  One vision in particular calls to her through the pain, like a distant song echoing in her mind.  It is calling her home.  Is Eve crazy... or something much more?  In developing the next generation of Cylons, getting the models to look human was the easy part... but acting human is another story.  Longtime fans will witness the evolution of Number Six as she learns to live, to love, and to hate.

"When it comes to the Cylons, the story has always been less about how they look human and more about how they act human," adds Krul.  "That aspect is at the core of this story.  Focusing on Number Six, we explore the development of a Cylon on an almost psychological level.  Through various existences on various planets of the colonies, Number Six sees what it means to be human.  Perhaps the most striking feature separating humans from Cylons is the fear of death.  Much of human behavior is driven by it, and Cylons have no real concept of it.  It's a vital lesson any Cylon must learn in order to understand how the human mind works.  But it's not enough that Number Six understand them.  She must come to empathize with them.  And eventually, she must come to loathe them."

Dynamite Entertainment has been publishing Battlestar Galactica comic books since 2006, focusing on each incarnation of the franchise from the classic continuity of the 1978 television series, to the Galactica 1980 follow-up, and finally to the reimagined series aired on Syfy from 2003 through 2009.  In recent months, Dynamite has published a bestselling Battlestar Galactica series by Dan Abnett and Andy Lanning set in the classic continuity.

"The reimagined Battlestar Galactica television series shook the foundations of sci-fi fandom," says Nick Barrucci, CEO and Publisher of Dynamite.  "We have had the privilege and enjoyment of contributing many tales to that star-spanning mythos over the years, but in 2013, our focus was set primarily on the 35th anniversary celebration of the classic BSG continuity.  What better way to rocket back into the reimagined universe than by focusing the spotlight on Number Six -- the sexiest, most seductive woman in the universe, even if she was manufactured on a Cylon assembly line."




Saturday, February 15, 2014

THE SHADOW OVER INNSMOUTH One-Shot Coming This April from Dynamite

The Shadow series gets a special one-shot in April of 2014.The Shadow Over Innsmouth is written by Ron Marz (Green Lantern) and artist Matthew Dow Smith. Crafting a Shadow story like no other and placing the pulp avenger in H.P. Lovecraft's famous setting for a truly inspired one-shot, this oversized issue will be available in April from Dynamite Entertainment via both comic stores and digital platforms.

In The Shadow Over Innsmouth, the fog-shrouded town of Innsmouth holds deep secrets. There are legends of inhuman creatures raised from the depths, of supernatural rites and elder gods from beyond. When Lamont Cranston and Margo Lane find themselves trapped in Innsmouth, terrible truths will surface... truths only the Shadow can know.

"Certainly the title alone made this a natural story to tell, but more than that, both the Shadow and Lovecraft's mythos are products of the same era," says writer Ron Marz. "They both have pulp roots, so despite the Shadow's crime orientation and Lovecraft's overt horror, there's a similarity in mood. I tried to put together the Shadow and the Innsmouth legend in a way that remains true to both of them. And obviously I couldn't ask for a better artist collaborator that my buddy Matthew Dow Smith. If anybody in comics knows shadows, it's Matthew."

Friday, February 14, 2014

New Faces. New Threats – Your First Look at NEW WARRIORS #1

 Witness the next generation of the Marvel Universe this February in NEW WARRIORS #1 – an all-new action packed ongoing series from blockbuster writer Christopher Yost and red-hot artist Marcus To! New Warriors mainstays Speedball and Justice are getting the band back together with a new team of heroes the likes of which you’ve never seen before!

“They’re eight people from different corners of the Marvel Universe, coming together to do the right thing, to be heroes,” says writer Christopher Yost, in an interview with Marvel.com. “They’re not kids, they’re not seasoned heroes for the most part, but they’re idealists. Sometime it’s okay to be a hero for the sake of being a hero; to be with a team because they’re your friends, because it’s fun.”

“Sometimes the world just needs saving,” continued Yost.

Evolution has gone off the rails. There are super humans, mutants, Inhumans, clones, aliens, and more everywhere you turn. Humanity no longer exists as the dominant life form on the planet. And not everyone is pleased! The High Evolutionary has raised an army to combat these “superior” beings – through complete extermination!

Now, Speedball, Justice, Nova, Scarlet Spider, Sun Girl, Hummingbird and more must stand together against the rising tide. Don’t miss a fresh start for the heroes of tomorrow this February in the exciting NEW WARRIORS #1





Thursday, February 13, 2014

Enter if You Dare – Your First Look at DISNEY KINGDOMS: SEEKERS OF THE WEIRD #2

On the heels of the first issue sell-out, Marvel is pleased to present your first look at Disney Kingdoms: Seekers of the

Weird #2, the next thrilling chapter from critically acclaimed creators Brandon Seifert and Karl Moline! Designed – but never built – the lost Disneyland attraction finally comes to life!
When their parents are kidnapped, teens Maxwell and Melody are thrust into a treacherous race through the mysterious Museum of the Weird! But there are darker forces lying in wait inside the museum. What lurks within the Wardens’ Library…and what is the Walking Chair? Who are the Shadow Society – and what do they want with the Coffin Clock? Questions will be answered! Maxwell and Melody’s action-packed journey takes a weird turn this February in Disney Kingdoms: Seekers of the Weird #2

Wednesday, February 12, 2014

Historical society to host film series

Thanks to a National Endowment for the Humanities grant, the Detroit Historical Society will screen several films about the African-American experience in coming months to mark the 150th anniversary of the Emancipation Proclamation.

The films, part of the “Created Equal: Amercia’s Civil Rights Struggle,” will air at the Detroit Historical Museum. Admission is free to Wayne County residents.

“Slavery by Another Name,” at 1 p.m. March 8 and 9, focuses on unpaid labor by Southern black men in pre-World War II America and “Freedom Riders,” at 1 p.m. April 12 and 13, examines the stories of men and women who braved serious injury and death during the 1950s and ’60s.

The series concludes with “The Loving Story,” at 1 p.m. May 10 and 11. It’s about a Virginia couple’s challenge of that state’s marriage laws in the late 1950s.

All films include discussions after the screenings moderated by scholars or those who lived through the times shown in the movies.

Visit detroithistorical.org to learn more.

The End? Or the Beginning? Your First Look at DAREDEVIL #36

 Matt Murdock’s life comes crashing down in DAREDEVIL #36 – the fearless final issue from critically acclaimed storytellers Mark Waid & Chris Samnee! After the shocking events of last issue, there’s nowhere left for Matt to run. The Man Without Fear stands alone against the villainous hate group known as Sons of the Serpent. And their climactic clash is about to take place on a different kind of battlefield – in a New York City courtroom! But how much is he willing to sacrifice in the name of victory? It’s time for the Man Without Fear to show how fearless he really is. And the truth may shock you! It’s all been leading to this – and the seeds sown here bear bitter fruit for Daredevil in 2014! You don’t need a radar sense to know this one will be big! Don’t miss the epic finale this February in DAREDEVIL #36