Roger’s Comic Ramblings: I’m Not Dead Yet
Death of Captain Marvel
Westfield’s Roger Ash talks about death and resurrection in mainstream comics.
Westfield’s Roger Ash talks about death and resurrection in mainstream comics.
KC Column: Never-Ending Story, Part 3
by KC Carlson
PREVIOUSLY ON NEVER-ENDING STORY (part 1) (part 2): After intense creative experimentation in the early 1970s, superhero comic books largely stuck to the basics by the end of the decade. There were more creative surprises ahead, but for now, comics’ biggest conflicts were behind the scenes, as a failing distribution system, combined with a poor physical product, would force comics to come up with creative solutions to stay alive. Meanwhile, many comic creators were restless, especially the new, younger talent who had been entering the field over the last decade or so. They also wanted better physical presentation for their work, including ever-expanding formats to experiment with — as well as better working conditions and more return for their creativity. Plus, the effects of growing intelligent critique and criticism from a more vocal fanbase would help push creators into even bigger flights of fancy. All of these factors seemed to indicate that interesting times were around the corner as the 1980s began.
Too Much Cool Stuff – Not Enough $$$ – December ‘09
by KC Carlson
We’re in the big wind-down to both of Marvel and DC’s most recent events, so there’s lots of Siege and Blackest Night stuff all over the order form. But you’re probably aware of those events, as it seems that’s all anybody wants to talk about anymore. I suppose it’s too much to ask that both of these Events might actually wrap up with a big, definitive ending (just for a change), instead of simply leading into the next Big Mega Mind-Bending Nose-Blowing (sorry, but it IS the cold and flu season!) Thing. Why are publishers and some creators afraid of the words “The End”? Can no one actually write an ending to anything anymore?