First, a big happy (though probably belated) birthday to Fred Hembeck - I wish I could remember when I first saw his work (long before he destroyed the Marvel Universe). He's a singular talent and a slightly warped mind, although not necessarily in that order. (Just added his blog to my blogroll). Happy birthday, Fred.
Secondly, according to this item an item mentioned in this post is false. I now must make Fred Hembeck cake.
Visited my local comic shop to pick up my stash, and the clerk remarked about how well I knew my subscription. I told him that, long ago and far away, a neglectful clerk forgot to put Watchmen 12 in my pull file, and so that traumatized me enough to be careful. Plus, since I didn't read 20 X-books, I could keep track of what I read.
This led to a typical fannish discussion - why is Dr. Strange used as Mr. Exposition? In Marvel (especially in Avengers Dissassembled by Tim "Tool Man" Taylor), Dr. Strange is the guy who essentially says, "I've been in another dimension, so I couldn't save you, but here's what has happened." I'm sure that, by this logic, the thinking would be, "Hey, Dr. Strange, you and Silver Surfer work your cosmic mojo and whomp that sucker - Namor, Hulk and I are gonna grab some brewskis." Great in his 60's (and 80's) stuff, yet Dr. Strange is kind of like the Spectre of DC - he comes in to explain things, but won't pull in his fair share. Hell, at least Johnny Thunder used his frickin' Thunderbolt once in awhile....
Finally, my mom's in the hospital again - I called her, and she sounds ok, but thoughts, prayers, and other good vibes are welcome.
January 31, 2005
January 29, 2005
Let's Get Metatextual
Elvis Costello once remarked, "Writing about music is like dancing about architecture." In my opinion, books about comics - with the exception of Kavalier and Clay - often miss the point; they too often focus so much on the academic/structure that they avoid the whole point of comics. The turning point came with Understanding Comics, where Scott McCloud self-referentially used graphic literature as a way to deconstruct it.
It isn't so amazing, then, that Dennis O'Neil has written The DC Comics Guide to Writing Comics, less a meditation on the art of comics than an exploration of structure, and a book which (probably) should have come out in the late 1980s. It is a very basic how-to guide, and does not go into some of the more artistic aspects. This is to Alan Moore's (rumored upcoming) comic writing guide what Lester Dent's pulp outline is to Raymond Chandler's The Simple Art of Murder...but we all have to start somewhere, and this book is one of those "if you love comics, you gotta have it on your bookshelf."
Next, deconstructing comics further is The Science of Superheroes, which attempts to provide scientific explanations behind some of the more common heroes. Basically, Marvel's heroes are based on dubious science (surprise, surprise), and DCs come out slightly stronger. Surprisingly, the authors provide great theories behind the powers of Green Lantern and Aquaman, which will make some Aquaman fans very happy. It's in a very easy-to-read format - well worth checking out of your local library. (And consider this a plug for the St. Louis Public Library system - second, in my opinion, only to Chicago's library system)
Finally, thanks to my employer's Christmas party, I was given a copy of How to Be a Superhero as a gift. It knowingly embraces every super hero cliche and simultaneously celebrates and tweaks them. It's definitely a humor book, and unless you're the kind of sad individual tweaked in either Fanboy Rampage or Post-Crisis, worth reading (although, again, probably more worth checking out of your local library).
It isn't so amazing, then, that Dennis O'Neil has written The DC Comics Guide to Writing Comics, less a meditation on the art of comics than an exploration of structure, and a book which (probably) should have come out in the late 1980s. It is a very basic how-to guide, and does not go into some of the more artistic aspects. This is to Alan Moore's (rumored upcoming) comic writing guide what Lester Dent's pulp outline is to Raymond Chandler's The Simple Art of Murder...but we all have to start somewhere, and this book is one of those "if you love comics, you gotta have it on your bookshelf."
Next, deconstructing comics further is The Science of Superheroes, which attempts to provide scientific explanations behind some of the more common heroes. Basically, Marvel's heroes are based on dubious science (surprise, surprise), and DCs come out slightly stronger. Surprisingly, the authors provide great theories behind the powers of Green Lantern and Aquaman, which will make some Aquaman fans very happy. It's in a very easy-to-read format - well worth checking out of your local library. (And consider this a plug for the St. Louis Public Library system - second, in my opinion, only to Chicago's library system)
Finally, thanks to my employer's Christmas party, I was given a copy of How to Be a Superhero as a gift. It knowingly embraces every super hero cliche and simultaneously celebrates and tweaks them. It's definitely a humor book, and unless you're the kind of sad individual tweaked in either Fanboy Rampage or Post-Crisis, worth reading (although, again, probably more worth checking out of your local library).
January 28, 2005
Charm of Chaplin
(First, an aside to Tom the Dog - yes, Sara Rue is smoking hot. She makes me want to do semi-naughty things that I cannot announce on a PG-rated blog. You are now my second favorite blog behind Kevin, who posted an oh-so-naughty picture of Scarlett Johannsen eons ago).
Right now, I am about to say something that will risk me losing my hip-and-with-it film buff credentials. Ready?
Charlie Chaplin - what's the deal?
Saying that is tantamount to saying, "Will Eisner wrote and drew comic books like an eight year old" or "Raymond Chandler couldn't type his way out of a soggy paper bag", but for film buffs to discuss the genius of Chaplin...I don't get it. I just don't. I need a clue.
Saw The Gold Rush in college - cute film, but didn't get it. Didn't think it was funny.
The Great Dictator - saw it several times, loved it, but felt the ending was a little too cloy. It's a good film, but still, not exactly a masterpiece.
Recently, I sat down and watched Modern Times, and although I think Paulette Goddard is rather tasty, I still don't see the charm of Chaplin. The film (in my view) seems to be nothing more than a blanket, almost cliche, "machines = bad, human beings = good".
Maybe it's a contextual/historical thing - we have seen so much Chaplin-esque symbolism (he is the most recognized film icon), maybe he has become cliche, definiting rather than transcending his time. In his day, he was a superstar, the most widely recognized man on earth, an all-in-one package that we don't see in present pop culture. Writer, director, actor - his moviemaking consisted mainly of multiple takes, improvs that shaped his story. No one - Spielberg,
Cruise, any major star - could even reach the heights of Chaplin's stardom. Chaplin was also controversial, his personal life and radical theories providing the press with numerous gossip and innuendo...in these more cynical (and Internet-driven) times, Chaplin's star might not have risen so quickly or stayed afloat so long.
Granted, he did do one thing brilliantly - he was able to inject pathos and compassion into comedy. Thanks to him, movie comedies have some element of sadness, drama to offset the laughs - but somehow, they all seem to be centered around him, about the poor little tramp
(him) who, at the end of the day, ends up alone on the road again. (Except in Modern Times, he doesn't.) At 43 years old, the tramp mustache seems relatively counterfeit, the pathos overwhelming, the laughs minimal.
Even the supporting materials seem to suggest greater talent - after all, in the Chaplin Today documentary on the special features disc, two French filmmakers merely talk about his film before announcing that - gasp! - it's similar to a film they made. That would be like me announcing, "Hey, world! I draw just like Rob Liefeld!"
In short, I don't understand the Chaplin mystique...I guess I just had to be there. If anyone could explain it to me, I would greatly appreciate it.
Right now, I am about to say something that will risk me losing my hip-and-with-it film buff credentials. Ready?
Charlie Chaplin - what's the deal?
Saying that is tantamount to saying, "Will Eisner wrote and drew comic books like an eight year old" or "Raymond Chandler couldn't type his way out of a soggy paper bag", but for film buffs to discuss the genius of Chaplin...I don't get it. I just don't. I need a clue.
Saw The Gold Rush in college - cute film, but didn't get it. Didn't think it was funny.
The Great Dictator - saw it several times, loved it, but felt the ending was a little too cloy. It's a good film, but still, not exactly a masterpiece.
Recently, I sat down and watched Modern Times, and although I think Paulette Goddard is rather tasty, I still don't see the charm of Chaplin. The film (in my view) seems to be nothing more than a blanket, almost cliche, "machines = bad, human beings = good".
Maybe it's a contextual/historical thing - we have seen so much Chaplin-esque symbolism (he is the most recognized film icon), maybe he has become cliche, definiting rather than transcending his time. In his day, he was a superstar, the most widely recognized man on earth, an all-in-one package that we don't see in present pop culture. Writer, director, actor - his moviemaking consisted mainly of multiple takes, improvs that shaped his story. No one - Spielberg,
Cruise, any major star - could even reach the heights of Chaplin's stardom. Chaplin was also controversial, his personal life and radical theories providing the press with numerous gossip and innuendo...in these more cynical (and Internet-driven) times, Chaplin's star might not have risen so quickly or stayed afloat so long.
Granted, he did do one thing brilliantly - he was able to inject pathos and compassion into comedy. Thanks to him, movie comedies have some element of sadness, drama to offset the laughs - but somehow, they all seem to be centered around him, about the poor little tramp
(him) who, at the end of the day, ends up alone on the road again. (Except in Modern Times, he doesn't.) At 43 years old, the tramp mustache seems relatively counterfeit, the pathos overwhelming, the laughs minimal.
Even the supporting materials seem to suggest greater talent - after all, in the Chaplin Today documentary on the special features disc, two French filmmakers merely talk about his film before announcing that - gasp! - it's similar to a film they made. That would be like me announcing, "Hey, world! I draw just like Rob Liefeld!"
In short, I don't understand the Chaplin mystique...I guess I just had to be there. If anyone could explain it to me, I would greatly appreciate it.
January 26, 2005
Sick Leave
Hey, y'all,
Just a heads-up; I have caught some kind of naughty, freaky viral thing, so my bloggin' might not be as frequent as before. However, here are some ideas that I have percolating:
Until then, it's green tea and OJ for me...
Just a heads-up; I have caught some kind of naughty, freaky viral thing, so my bloggin' might not be as frequent as before. However, here are some ideas that I have percolating:
- JMS and the "Lost" Crusade
- Alan Moore Knows the Score
- Reviews of three books about comic books
- Charlie Chaplin - Overrated?
Until then, it's green tea and OJ for me...
January 25, 2005
You Make the Call
Which news item is the least welcome?
- Guy who sang "Octopus' Garden" latest member of Avengers; or
- The big-ass Enterprise Finale Cameo (hint: it ain't Shatner)
January 24, 2005
Johnny Carson RIP
I'm a Carson fan from way back - however, rather than write and repeat what other people are writing in tribute, I think this article says it all.
Motivational Moment From Despair.com
Since I'm waiting for a staff meeting, and technically shouldn't be posting this, I thought I would share my all-time favorite Despair.com item:
January 23, 2005
Star Clipper & Space Monkeys
My Saturday was a little ragged (in more ways than one): a neighborhood forum that I quickly left (was a little too disorganized); met some friends for coffee, but made a long-promised trip to Star Clipper Comics. I may start buying my graphic novels there, but stick to the Fantasy Shop for my comics. Yes, it's like having a girlfriend and mistress, but Star Clipper has a ton of graphic novels, manga, etc - it's like someone read my mind about the ideal comic store.
(Although it does lose points: I bought a grab bag, thinking it might be indie, and what do I get? JLA 95, JLA 100, JLA 102, and New X-Men Academy 3. OK, I only paid two bucks, but even still...)
Anyway, remembering my New Year's resolution, I decided to find a book that I normally wouldn't purchase, and although there was a May 2004 date on it, I chose Bloop # 1, simply for the cover: a red-haired handsome guy surrounded by green space monkeys with antenna.
You read correctly - this is a black-and-white comic about Bloop, a green space monkey. I don't know if there are any more issues - only that it comes from a comic called Astounding Space Thrills. (Perhaps those in the know can fill me in).
There are three stories - one a completely no-dialogue affair, one a tricky science fiction tale featuring backgammon, and the first part of a three-parter. This is, quite simply, a fun book - the art is clean, the writing sharp, and quite frankly, there is a playful spirit that permeates this book. It's a well-crafted sampler, and quite frankly, the kind of comic that we need more of nowadays.
(Although it does lose points: I bought a grab bag, thinking it might be indie, and what do I get? JLA 95, JLA 100, JLA 102, and New X-Men Academy 3. OK, I only paid two bucks, but even still...)
Anyway, remembering my New Year's resolution, I decided to find a book that I normally wouldn't purchase, and although there was a May 2004 date on it, I chose Bloop # 1, simply for the cover: a red-haired handsome guy surrounded by green space monkeys with antenna.
You read correctly - this is a black-and-white comic about Bloop, a green space monkey. I don't know if there are any more issues - only that it comes from a comic called Astounding Space Thrills. (Perhaps those in the know can fill me in).
There are three stories - one a completely no-dialogue affair, one a tricky science fiction tale featuring backgammon, and the first part of a three-parter. This is, quite simply, a fun book - the art is clean, the writing sharp, and quite frankly, there is a playful spirit that permeates this book. It's a well-crafted sampler, and quite frankly, the kind of comic that we need more of nowadays.
January 21, 2005
Announcement: My Mojo Is Fully Operational
Right now, I'm feeling good, if a little worn out. No, it wasn't attending a city council work session last night, it wasn't due to seeing a trailer for Pauly Shore is Dead and seeing Mr. Shore resemble an aged Borscht Belt Comedian...
No, I had a hell of a first date last night.
My dating life has been hit-or-miss in the past few years: trying to date during an unrequited love affair, having the embarrassing first dates that lead to empty "That-was-great-let's-do-it-again-sometime" promises....in fact, I had pretty much given up the dating thing, thinking that 2005 was going to start "Gordon: the Lone Wolf Years."
However, this was an oh-so cool date. One for the record books.
It actually began with someone e-mailing me talking about "resuming our conversation" from another service. Even though this was based on mistaken identity, eventually, we planned to meet last night. Luckily, she was able to make it earlier than she expected, and we found meeting (for the first time) at Pin-Up Bowl. No awkward pauses, no lulls, nothing to make this first date have that "date-that-is-really-a-job-interview" feel. (Trust me - it was getting to the point that I was considering asking women for their resumes - cut to the chase). We both were comfortable with each other to share part of our lives (I think she appreciated the fact that I jokingly announced that I was "doing Satan's work." Those who know what I do will dig it).
Then, it was down to the Delmar Lounge for a really late, where I ran into Jeff and Randy, some pals/former Metropolis Steering Committee comrades, and then my date and I continued our conversation. I tell you, I broke every single rule in the "Macho Guy Dating Book" - I invited her to a Billikens game this Saturday (I had free tickets), my employer's upcoming trivia night, and all without the usual "Oh-my-god-do-you-like-me" desperation I usually feel.
(You'll notice I haven't talked about her and her background at all - until this works out (if it does), I'd like to keep her identity anonymous. Trust me - you'll understand)
Finally, we made our way to Blueberry Hill, where the college crowd came in. My professional instincts kicked in when we both saw some extemely-underage-looking women with drinks, and I wanted to check ID. (Professional hazard - sorry). Eventually, I was starting to nod out and get quiet - more out of fatigue than boredom. However, we both went back to her car, she drove me back to mine, and it was home for both of us.
It's scary, but scary in a good way - scary enough to inspire me to write an entry for the contest in Polite Dissent. Scary, but exciting, like a roller coaster ride through a ring of fire.
But enough of my personal digressions - I promise; next time it will be more pop culture shtick, stream-of-consciousness ramblings, and John Byrne bashing.
No, I had a hell of a first date last night.
My dating life has been hit-or-miss in the past few years: trying to date during an unrequited love affair, having the embarrassing first dates that lead to empty "That-was-great-let's-do-it-again-sometime" promises....in fact, I had pretty much given up the dating thing, thinking that 2005 was going to start "Gordon: the Lone Wolf Years."
However, this was an oh-so cool date. One for the record books.
It actually began with someone e-mailing me talking about "resuming our conversation" from another service. Even though this was based on mistaken identity, eventually, we planned to meet last night. Luckily, she was able to make it earlier than she expected, and we found meeting (for the first time) at Pin-Up Bowl. No awkward pauses, no lulls, nothing to make this first date have that "date-that-is-really-a-job-interview" feel. (Trust me - it was getting to the point that I was considering asking women for their resumes - cut to the chase). We both were comfortable with each other to share part of our lives (I think she appreciated the fact that I jokingly announced that I was "doing Satan's work." Those who know what I do will dig it).
Then, it was down to the Delmar Lounge for a really late, where I ran into Jeff and Randy, some pals/former Metropolis Steering Committee comrades, and then my date and I continued our conversation. I tell you, I broke every single rule in the "Macho Guy Dating Book" - I invited her to a Billikens game this Saturday (I had free tickets), my employer's upcoming trivia night, and all without the usual "Oh-my-god-do-you-like-me" desperation I usually feel.
(You'll notice I haven't talked about her and her background at all - until this works out (if it does), I'd like to keep her identity anonymous. Trust me - you'll understand)
Finally, we made our way to Blueberry Hill, where the college crowd came in. My professional instincts kicked in when we both saw some extemely-underage-looking women with drinks, and I wanted to check ID. (Professional hazard - sorry). Eventually, I was starting to nod out and get quiet - more out of fatigue than boredom. However, we both went back to her car, she drove me back to mine, and it was home for both of us.
It's scary, but scary in a good way - scary enough to inspire me to write an entry for the contest in Polite Dissent. Scary, but exciting, like a roller coaster ride through a ring of fire.
But enough of my personal digressions - I promise; next time it will be more pop culture shtick, stream-of-consciousness ramblings, and John Byrne bashing.
January 19, 2005
Useful As A Poopy Flavored Lollipop
The past 48 hours have been lame - missed a work-related meeting due to a malfunctioning garage door (and note to co-workers: next time, try to tell me before I'm heading out the door, not as I'm leaving. Communication is important, people); been dealing with some intestinal thing, have a coworker who is trying to help, but hasn't asked if I needed help....well, my attitude has been really bad, so bad that it resembles this demotivational poster. I mean, not even a contest at Polite Dissent (which I encourage everyone to enter) could cheer me up.
However, I have found a cure - Dodgeball: A True Underdog Story, which is probably either
Dudes and dudettes, if you want to laugh yourself sick, see this movie. About the only thing that I have to look forward to after the past 48 hours - a semi-hot date tomorrow night. If you behave, I'll share details.
However, I have found a cure - Dodgeball: A True Underdog Story, which is probably either
- The Citizen Kane of Dodgeball Movies
- A sharp, sly parody of sports movies; and/or
- a plain, no-frills, turn-your-brain-off physical comedy.
Dudes and dudettes, if you want to laugh yourself sick, see this movie. About the only thing that I have to look forward to after the past 48 hours - a semi-hot date tomorrow night. If you behave, I'll share details.
January 16, 2005
Short Takes
First, a little something found on Laura and Johnny Bacardi's blogs:
Since I have a little catching up to do, here are some remarks about comics, shows, and stuff that I've experienced in the past few weeks. These are short take reviews, in honor of J.D. Considine, music writer, who could make (or break) an album in 40 words or less:
Star Trek: Enterprise - Daedalus: The second real clunker of the fourth season, trailing behind the season opener. What should have been a cool episode (we meet the guy who invented the transporter) turns into a standard science fiction "learning-to-let-loved-ones-go" story. You've gotta do better, guys.
Breach # 1: So the guy who wrote this used to be editor-in-chief at Marvel? Explains a lot. Love the art, though.
Teen Titans # 19: The end of the time-travel arc, and it comes to an...interesting conclusion. It's not one of my regular reads, but is satisfactory.
JSA # 69: Another time-travel arc, and it's a middle-of-the-arc story, where our "modern" heroes meet (or miss) their Golden Age counterparts. Some brilliant character bits (like Johnny Thunder), some rather trite moments (like with...but that would be telling). Oh, and does anyone else find the last page creepy and slightly misogynistic?
Farscape, Season Three, Episodes One Through Nine: Sadly, the closest America will ever come to the genius of Blake's Seven. More ideas, clever writing, and cool acting in these episodes than you can shake a stick at, if that's your idea of a good time.
Legion of Super Heroes # 1 - Mixed feelings: I'm a Legion Fanboy from way back, but thought recent reboots were simply retelling old stories. Some clever ideas (like Micro Lad), but having a wait-and-see approach. Promising, though.
Green Lantern: Rebirth # 3 - Oh, so it was an alien fear-based life form all along? I liked this better when it was told as Day of the Dove on the old Star Trek series. Thank you, overly nostalgic fanboys - thank you really frickin' much.
Ultimates 2 # 2 - Some really clever ideas, but this book makes one wonder if Mark Millar secretly wishes he was Jerry Bruckheimer's screenwriter.
Doctor Who Magazine # 351 - the last issue before the "new look" (and Christopher Eccleston Doctor) appears. Some really great features, including a free CD of two excellent audio stories, "The Coup" (featuring UNIT) and "Silver Lining" (featuring Bernice Summerfield) . Good enough reason to be alive.
JLA: Classified # 2 - Although the style can be a bit grating, Grant Morrison pulls out the stops. His Superman better be this awesome.
Green Arrow # 46 - Definitely removing this book from my pull file. The art is really cool, but the story...and I'm tiring from Mia's whining after three issues. Good excuse to drop off, if you are looking for one.
ADDITION: JLA 110 - Another mid-arc tale, which definitely gives us some nuance into how the CSA is dealing with our world. Kurt Busiek should win an award for his deft handling - yes, this is close to fanboy porn, but this hits the sweet spots so well. Definitely can't wait for the conclusion.
Since I have a little catching up to do, here are some remarks about comics, shows, and stuff that I've experienced in the past few weeks. These are short take reviews, in honor of J.D. Considine, music writer, who could make (or break) an album in 40 words or less:
Star Trek: Enterprise - Daedalus: The second real clunker of the fourth season, trailing behind the season opener. What should have been a cool episode (we meet the guy who invented the transporter) turns into a standard science fiction "learning-to-let-loved-ones-go" story. You've gotta do better, guys.
Breach # 1: So the guy who wrote this used to be editor-in-chief at Marvel? Explains a lot. Love the art, though.
Teen Titans # 19: The end of the time-travel arc, and it comes to an...interesting conclusion. It's not one of my regular reads, but is satisfactory.
JSA # 69: Another time-travel arc, and it's a middle-of-the-arc story, where our "modern" heroes meet (or miss) their Golden Age counterparts. Some brilliant character bits (like Johnny Thunder), some rather trite moments (like with...but that would be telling). Oh, and does anyone else find the last page creepy and slightly misogynistic?
Farscape, Season Three, Episodes One Through Nine: Sadly, the closest America will ever come to the genius of Blake's Seven. More ideas, clever writing, and cool acting in these episodes than you can shake a stick at, if that's your idea of a good time.
Legion of Super Heroes # 1 - Mixed feelings: I'm a Legion Fanboy from way back, but thought recent reboots were simply retelling old stories. Some clever ideas (like Micro Lad), but having a wait-and-see approach. Promising, though.
Green Lantern: Rebirth # 3 - Oh, so it was an alien fear-based life form all along? I liked this better when it was told as Day of the Dove on the old Star Trek series. Thank you, overly nostalgic fanboys - thank you really frickin' much.
Ultimates 2 # 2 - Some really clever ideas, but this book makes one wonder if Mark Millar secretly wishes he was Jerry Bruckheimer's screenwriter.
Doctor Who Magazine # 351 - the last issue before the "new look" (and Christopher Eccleston Doctor) appears. Some really great features, including a free CD of two excellent audio stories, "The Coup" (featuring UNIT) and "Silver Lining" (featuring Bernice Summerfield) . Good enough reason to be alive.
JLA: Classified # 2 - Although the style can be a bit grating, Grant Morrison pulls out the stops. His Superman better be this awesome.
Green Arrow # 46 - Definitely removing this book from my pull file. The art is really cool, but the story...and I'm tiring from Mia's whining after three issues. Good excuse to drop off, if you are looking for one.
ADDITION: JLA 110 - Another mid-arc tale, which definitely gives us some nuance into how the CSA is dealing with our world. Kurt Busiek should win an award for his deft handling - yes, this is close to fanboy porn, but this hits the sweet spots so well. Definitely can't wait for the conclusion.
January 14, 2005
Face of Evil
Inspired by a post on Progressive Ruin...
Yes, folks, it's my cat, Dax. I have finally entered The Geek Zone.
EDIT: As you can see, I did a little tweaking - you should see a new intro, a new blog on the blogroll, and this extremely gratuitous quote:
Yes, folks, it's my cat, Dax. I have finally entered The Geek Zone.
EDIT: As you can see, I did a little tweaking - you should see a new intro, a new blog on the blogroll, and this extremely gratuitous quote:
"I have seen the future of rock - and it sucks!" -- Graham Parker
January 13, 2005
Get Your Geek On
Part of me says to myself, "You know, doing a Star Trek-themed happy hour for CSAC probably wasn't a smart idea - no women."
Sure, no one showed up at Frederick's Music Lounge, but I still had fun nonetheless. They were planning to begin Deep Space Nine (after cycling through Next Generation). However, due to a missed mail delivery, they had to rely on the Citizen Kane of Star Trek movies.
Star Trek II: The Wrath of Khan. Oh, yeah.
This, like the Marx Brother's Duck Soup, Star Wars and A Hard Day's Night, is a film I have probably seen well over 300 times. (Plus, I knew the bartender was cool when we both complained about the lack of a decent DVD of Help, the Beatles' second movie). It's one of the movies that has - literally - shaped my character.
When it came out, I was still in high school, and I would take in a dollar show every night at the now-demolished Brighton Theater to see it. Of course, when you're in high school, the cool thing is the starship battles. Two ships phasering the holy mess out of each other, just 'cause they could.
Now, I can see the deeper themes - aging, loss, renewal, learning how to win the no-win situation. (I actually have this page printed out and hanging in my office - helps me through the tougher times, much like someone hanging the Serenity Prayer). Plus, thanks to the script (and Ricardo Montalban's performance), I now feel that I have read the best parts of Moby Dick.
The funny thing is...I'm not really a "happy hour" kind of guy, and my Wednesday nights get booked pretty quickly. Now, I feel (for the moment) that I have a new place to hang, and where to encourage my fellow geeks.
So, if you're in STL, and want to come out of your geeky closet, my advice - Frederick's, Wednesday night. CSAC's loss is your gain.
Sure, no one showed up at Frederick's Music Lounge, but I still had fun nonetheless. They were planning to begin Deep Space Nine (after cycling through Next Generation). However, due to a missed mail delivery, they had to rely on the Citizen Kane of Star Trek movies.
Star Trek II: The Wrath of Khan. Oh, yeah.
This, like the Marx Brother's Duck Soup, Star Wars and A Hard Day's Night, is a film I have probably seen well over 300 times. (Plus, I knew the bartender was cool when we both complained about the lack of a decent DVD of Help, the Beatles' second movie). It's one of the movies that has - literally - shaped my character.
When it came out, I was still in high school, and I would take in a dollar show every night at the now-demolished Brighton Theater to see it. Of course, when you're in high school, the cool thing is the starship battles. Two ships phasering the holy mess out of each other, just 'cause they could.
Now, I can see the deeper themes - aging, loss, renewal, learning how to win the no-win situation. (I actually have this page printed out and hanging in my office - helps me through the tougher times, much like someone hanging the Serenity Prayer). Plus, thanks to the script (and Ricardo Montalban's performance), I now feel that I have read the best parts of Moby Dick.
The funny thing is...I'm not really a "happy hour" kind of guy, and my Wednesday nights get booked pretty quickly. Now, I feel (for the moment) that I have a new place to hang, and where to encourage my fellow geeks.
So, if you're in STL, and want to come out of your geeky closet, my advice - Frederick's, Wednesday night. CSAC's loss is your gain.
January 12, 2005
Fifteen Seconds of Fame
Sometimes, a simple television interview can be...well, interesting.
After things happened in Ballwin Monday night, I was interviewed by the local Fox station. Normally, I'm not into television interviews - I would rather be behind the scenes, making anonymous efforts (I don't mind praise - I just like sharing it, in a weird way). If it wasn't for the fog and general icky weather, more people who supported it would have been at the meeting, and I might not have been interviewed...but I was, and prepared myself for the congratulations of moving my agency's mission forward.
Yesterday, however, with the usual atta-boys came, well, unexpected praise for the way I handled myself on the screen. (Luckily, one of my bosses was able to give an honest critique of my "performance"), but the hosannas came fast and furious. People I work with, both inside and outside of my office, expressed their pride and admiration, but now, it's back to work, and all the "normal" little intricacies and dysfunctional dynamics of before
It reminds me of this person, but in a different way - if you didn't know already, he works at a very prestigious British bookstore, and was fired for (satirically) talking about this job.
Now, let me get this straight - a bookstore (usually a bastion of intellectual freedom, free speech, etc) fires their employee because he says something they don't like, and what he says isn't hateful (e.g, "Hey, I think Hitler should shop here!"). He is getting much attention on the blogosphere, not because his blog is clever, but because his employers decided that his words cut a little too close to home. That, my friends, is complete and utter sash - in these troubled times, there should be more diverse speech, especially satirical speech, especially that which offends.
I normally don't post about my work or my employer - part of it is fear of repercussions, part of it is that I talk about job stuff with others outside of it, but much of it is...my job details wouldn't excite most of you. Paperwork, statistics, phone calls - at times, my life lacks excitement. I don't have a hot and sexy job, like, say, working in a comic shop. I am not a "look at me and how wonderful I am" attitude - I try to be wonderful and get things done. However, every once in awhile, greatness is thrust upon us (to paraphrase Shakespeare) and we have to do our best to handle it.
For this gentleman, you have my support. Keep on, brother. Fight the power. (And if you're a woman, my sincere apologies)
After things happened in Ballwin Monday night, I was interviewed by the local Fox station. Normally, I'm not into television interviews - I would rather be behind the scenes, making anonymous efforts (I don't mind praise - I just like sharing it, in a weird way). If it wasn't for the fog and general icky weather, more people who supported it would have been at the meeting, and I might not have been interviewed...but I was, and prepared myself for the congratulations of moving my agency's mission forward.
Yesterday, however, with the usual atta-boys came, well, unexpected praise for the way I handled myself on the screen. (Luckily, one of my bosses was able to give an honest critique of my "performance"), but the hosannas came fast and furious. People I work with, both inside and outside of my office, expressed their pride and admiration, but now, it's back to work, and all the "normal" little intricacies and dysfunctional dynamics of before
It reminds me of this person, but in a different way - if you didn't know already, he works at a very prestigious British bookstore, and was fired for (satirically) talking about this job.
Now, let me get this straight - a bookstore (usually a bastion of intellectual freedom, free speech, etc) fires their employee because he says something they don't like, and what he says isn't hateful (e.g, "Hey, I think Hitler should shop here!"). He is getting much attention on the blogosphere, not because his blog is clever, but because his employers decided that his words cut a little too close to home. That, my friends, is complete and utter sash - in these troubled times, there should be more diverse speech, especially satirical speech, especially that which offends.
I normally don't post about my work or my employer - part of it is fear of repercussions, part of it is that I talk about job stuff with others outside of it, but much of it is...my job details wouldn't excite most of you. Paperwork, statistics, phone calls - at times, my life lacks excitement. I don't have a hot and sexy job, like, say, working in a comic shop. I am not a "look at me and how wonderful I am" attitude - I try to be wonderful and get things done. However, every once in awhile, greatness is thrust upon us (to paraphrase Shakespeare) and we have to do our best to handle it.
For this gentleman, you have my support. Keep on, brother. Fight the power. (And if you're a woman, my sincere apologies)
January 10, 2005
Ballwin Blitz
Warning: Contents of this post may indicate that I have taken this a little too personally. You have been warned.As you may have read in previous posts, part of my job involves promoting smokefree legislation, which (in Missouri, at least) is tantamount to proclaiming Pauly Shore a comedy genius. Missouri tends to avoid change like a kindergartener avoids clean underwear. (I have no idea where that came from, folks). So any attempt to do something that might be beneficial...well, you might as well try to turn a pork steak into motor oil.
Ballwin is a case in point - since August, it has been an almost bare knuckle brawl between the Board of Aldermen and the local restaurant owners. Most of the press has been focused on the restaurant owners, whose shenanigans both in front of and behind the cameras have been less-than-honorable. (As well as mine, but more on that later).
Just a few hours ago, the city council passed a smokefree workplace ordinance (5 - 3 against), and of course, the pro-smoking contingent complained.
"We didn't get our say! This was railroaded!" This after a four month process where they received the lion's share of the attention.
"Hey, what about our rights?" You have a right to smoke - and I have a right to breathe clean air.
(For some of you who live in states with such legislation, it may be hard to understand - next time you're in town, I'll explain it to you over the beverage of your choice).
Of course, rather than take the high road - and being the only person in favor of such legislation - I decided to take on one of my opponents, a man who lives in Rock Hill (five miles away) who criticized me for "coming into" Ballwin and pushing my way inside. Soon, I realized that as the two of us were talking, the tv camera was filming us...and I looked like a pushy, obnoxious dude.
(OK, I am a pushy obnoxious dude, but I don't need it immortalized on videotape).
After a semi-sheepish television interview, I called my bosses, let them know what happened, and went home.
Even though I'm rather tired, and still a little buzzed about the "victory", it reminds me of why I enjoy comics so much. Even in dealing with people who assume they are right, who show their true colors through their actions, it's nice to know that sometimes, doing what I believe is right can be the most heroic thing I can do in one day, and that most people can agree to disagree and remain civil.
Start Your Morning Right!
Here's a little something from Accordion Guy's Blog
(Warning: if you're hung over, turn down your computer's speakers)
EDIT: Plus, I keep forgetting to include Laura's Contest, where if you write a small essay on comics as educational tools, you can win a graphic novel. Kids, it's worth the time and effort - sign up today!
(Warning: if you're hung over, turn down your computer's speakers)
EDIT: Plus, I keep forgetting to include Laura's Contest, where if you write a small essay on comics as educational tools, you can win a graphic novel. Kids, it's worth the time and effort - sign up today!
January 9, 2005
Food for Thought
You know, with all the stuff that's gone on in terms of discussing comics (and with the Academy Awards coming up), I thought I would ilnk to this article from Something Old, Nothing New, one of my favorite blogs.
(And a blog that, if you're not already reading it, add it to your hotlist/RSS Reader/whatever. Trust me. You won't be sorry.)
(And a blog that, if you're not already reading it, add it to your hotlist/RSS Reader/whatever. Trust me. You won't be sorry.)
January 8, 2005
Strange Dreams
I think I've finally snapped.
Maybe it's been the illness that took me suddenly New Year's Eve, combined with the manic pace of the past few days at work. Considering the three twelve-hour-work-days-in-a-row fueled by caffeine, dining on meats cooked on my George Foreman Grill, lack of significant other (although thanks to this post this blog is now my most favoritest blog in the world), I had the world's strangest dream.
I dreamt of reviving the Inferior Five.
I'm not kidding - it was one of my favorite comics when I was young, finding a semi-new (if coverless) issue in the three-comics-for-29-cents packs. It was a humorous take on comics (in general), with DC parodying Marvel in a barely legal way, and getting away with it...and I came up with a great idea to revive it in continuity. After the sturm und drang of Identity Crisis (and taking a cue from this blog's a cool take on Blue Beetle), I figured I would indulge my fanboy-ish fantasies for one post.
Imagine, if you will (taking place in continuity), the DC Universe of the late 1950's - 1960's - during the JSA's "retirement", due to both the HUAC crisis and the later hippie movement's lack of trust in them. (Actually, it's Hawkman they don't like, because he's so anal). So, we see "the Freedom Brigade" arise to take their place - 2nd tier heros who serve as "templates" for the Silver Age heroes we know and love. It is this Brigade that, gradually, becomes the parents of the Inferior Five, who "take their station" in the mid to late 1960s.
(And, if we can't go that way, we can give each of the Five parodic origins - for example, Awkwardman is sent from his aquatic home planet, which is about to be destroyed; however, his rocket ship veers off course, and he ends up on a planet with higher gravity, giving us a "reason" for his awkwarness. One minor reboot we would have to perform - Dumb Bunny. In the late 1960's, a dumb blonde in a glorified bunny suit might have been funny; however, in these modern times, it lacks a certain restraint. We could have her "smart" and then use the "dumb" act to fool criminals, and have her so good at it that she forgets when to be smart and when to be dumb. And we have to treat her with respect, because as we all know, comics fans are proto-feminists who will begin calling creators "misogynist" when they (fans) suspect sexism to occur...and we wouldn't want that, now, would we?)
So the Inferior Five, in one of their last adventures in the 1960's, takes on an evil Scientist - let's even push credibility and call him Dr. Quinn. He has a device that creates wormholes - that's right, honest to gosh wormholes. . Anyway, the battle rages, and the Five manage to stop the good Doctor...but as a result, the wormhole device is broken, and zaps them.
There's one of two ways to go with this - we could use the "Hypertime" angle, have the Five visit different "alternate universes" in the DC (and other) universes, and get into wacky mishaps. (I mean, can you imagine the Five in a Rob Liefeld-drawn universe? I find it funny). Give them that "Exiles" vibe, and let them go up and down in time. Maybe even have the Blimp "bump into" Joe Chill, knock him out, and create a non-Batman universe. At the very least, it wouldn't be boring.
The other way is to bump them into "present" DC Continuity, and just make fun of our heroes. Have White Feather and Green Arrow in a target contest. Have Dumb Bunny make fun of Blue Beetle/Booster Gold over the Kooey Kooey Kooey affair. Maybe even have the Blimp try to keep up with the Flash in order to lose weight. Plus, we'll have Phil Foglio draw it, and our first crossover (after the first year of single issue stories, just like the good old days) will be "Gorilla My Dreams" with Angel & the Ape, taking on Gorilla Grodd, if only to give Yet Another Comics Blog six weeks' worth of monkey covers! (And yes, I know the whole "Ape-is-Grodd's-grandson" subplot - we could milk it for all it's worth)
And if DC is worried about saturating the market, hell, they can cancel a Bat-book, or a Superman-book. Maybe skim a little of the profits of the Super/Bat books. Cancel the lowest three-selling titles. (No Swamp Thing, though). They could even cancel John Byrne's Doom Patrol - after all, the guy is 1) Canadian and 2) a stark, raving looney. We need a comic that is fun, and this would end up becoming a proven moneymaker. People want comics that don't take themselves so seriously.
Yes, that was my dream. It could be worse...I could have dreamed of reviving Captain Carrot & the Zoo Crew.
Maybe it's been the illness that took me suddenly New Year's Eve, combined with the manic pace of the past few days at work. Considering the three twelve-hour-work-days-in-a-row fueled by caffeine, dining on meats cooked on my George Foreman Grill, lack of significant other (although thanks to this post this blog is now my most favoritest blog in the world), I had the world's strangest dream.
I dreamt of reviving the Inferior Five.
I'm not kidding - it was one of my favorite comics when I was young, finding a semi-new (if coverless) issue in the three-comics-for-29-cents packs. It was a humorous take on comics (in general), with DC parodying Marvel in a barely legal way, and getting away with it...and I came up with a great idea to revive it in continuity. After the sturm und drang of Identity Crisis (and taking a cue from this blog's a cool take on Blue Beetle), I figured I would indulge my fanboy-ish fantasies for one post.
Imagine, if you will (taking place in continuity), the DC Universe of the late 1950's - 1960's - during the JSA's "retirement", due to both the HUAC crisis and the later hippie movement's lack of trust in them. (Actually, it's Hawkman they don't like, because he's so anal). So, we see "the Freedom Brigade" arise to take their place - 2nd tier heros who serve as "templates" for the Silver Age heroes we know and love. It is this Brigade that, gradually, becomes the parents of the Inferior Five, who "take their station" in the mid to late 1960s.
(And, if we can't go that way, we can give each of the Five parodic origins - for example, Awkwardman is sent from his aquatic home planet, which is about to be destroyed; however, his rocket ship veers off course, and he ends up on a planet with higher gravity, giving us a "reason" for his awkwarness. One minor reboot we would have to perform - Dumb Bunny. In the late 1960's, a dumb blonde in a glorified bunny suit might have been funny; however, in these modern times, it lacks a certain restraint. We could have her "smart" and then use the "dumb" act to fool criminals, and have her so good at it that she forgets when to be smart and when to be dumb. And we have to treat her with respect, because as we all know, comics fans are proto-feminists who will begin calling creators "misogynist" when they (fans) suspect sexism to occur...and we wouldn't want that, now, would we?)
So the Inferior Five, in one of their last adventures in the 1960's, takes on an evil Scientist - let's even push credibility and call him Dr. Quinn. He has a device that creates wormholes - that's right, honest to gosh wormholes. . Anyway, the battle rages, and the Five manage to stop the good Doctor...but as a result, the wormhole device is broken, and zaps them.
There's one of two ways to go with this - we could use the "Hypertime" angle, have the Five visit different "alternate universes" in the DC (and other) universes, and get into wacky mishaps. (I mean, can you imagine the Five in a Rob Liefeld-drawn universe? I find it funny). Give them that "Exiles" vibe, and let them go up and down in time. Maybe even have the Blimp "bump into" Joe Chill, knock him out, and create a non-Batman universe. At the very least, it wouldn't be boring.
The other way is to bump them into "present" DC Continuity, and just make fun of our heroes. Have White Feather and Green Arrow in a target contest. Have Dumb Bunny make fun of Blue Beetle/Booster Gold over the Kooey Kooey Kooey affair. Maybe even have the Blimp try to keep up with the Flash in order to lose weight. Plus, we'll have Phil Foglio draw it, and our first crossover (after the first year of single issue stories, just like the good old days) will be "Gorilla My Dreams" with Angel & the Ape, taking on Gorilla Grodd, if only to give Yet Another Comics Blog six weeks' worth of monkey covers! (And yes, I know the whole "Ape-is-Grodd's-grandson" subplot - we could milk it for all it's worth)
And if DC is worried about saturating the market, hell, they can cancel a Bat-book, or a Superman-book. Maybe skim a little of the profits of the Super/Bat books. Cancel the lowest three-selling titles. (No Swamp Thing, though). They could even cancel John Byrne's Doom Patrol - after all, the guy is 1) Canadian and 2) a stark, raving looney. We need a comic that is fun, and this would end up becoming a proven moneymaker. People want comics that don't take themselves so seriously.
Yes, that was my dream. It could be worse...I could have dreamed of reviving Captain Carrot & the Zoo Crew.
January 7, 2005
Whoa Mama, Today's My Lucky Day!
First, after posting this a while ago, I received a very nice thank you note from Jenna Fischer, the writer/director/star of Lollilove. Do what you can to see this movie, and watch The Office on NBC. If it is half as funny as the BBC Original (and I have no doubt that it will), we'll have a winner. (And by the way, if you get a chance to see LolliLove do so. You will laugh harder than you ever have in your life).
Anyway, I was Googling several former high school classmates for our upcoming reunion, and somehow found myself looking at this (which, ironically, got me through many a Sunday night in high school).
Oh, man, if there's a big frickin' check in my mailbox tomorrow, this will be the bestest year ever!
Anyway, I was Googling several former high school classmates for our upcoming reunion, and somehow found myself looking at this (which, ironically, got me through many a Sunday night in high school).
Oh, man, if there's a big frickin' check in my mailbox tomorrow, this will be the bestest year ever!
January 6, 2005
Topic for Discussion
Acquired from Boing Boing - and quite personally, I don't believe in downloading comics. I mean, it's a pain and a half dragging my monitor and mouse into the bathroom
(rimshot)
Hey, it's my job to stimulate discussion. Go for it!
(rimshot)
Hey, it's my job to stimulate discussion. Go for it!
Random Stuff
Whew, boy, the past few days going back into work have been...hectic. Hectic in a good way. Some parts are good (in a "can't-talk-about-them-until-we're-done" way), some parts are the usual (planning for a major project, dealing with some of my teams, etc), but it's all fun, and getting back into the swing of things this early in the year....is always good.
The Comic Treadmill has finished their 12 Days of Christmas postings - trust me, kids, it's the most clever thing to come out of this past holiday since.....well, ever.
One really cool video find so far this year has been Ultraviolet, a vampire series for people who normally dislike vampire series. In America, you've got your Buffy/Angel, and vampires are much more deeply entrenched in our culture than in England. However, this is a series that updates the vampire myth, gives it an X-Files-esque spin, and because it's only six one hour episodes, does not even come close to jumping the shark.
After being shut down by spammers, the might Arch Pundit has returned, providing excellent insight and news on the STL political scene.
Oh, and although I had announced a contest for Gmail invitations, screw it - just let me know if you need one (or know of a worthy place to send them) and it's yours/theirs.
The Comic Treadmill has finished their 12 Days of Christmas postings - trust me, kids, it's the most clever thing to come out of this past holiday since.....well, ever.
One really cool video find so far this year has been Ultraviolet, a vampire series for people who normally dislike vampire series. In America, you've got your Buffy/Angel, and vampires are much more deeply entrenched in our culture than in England. However, this is a series that updates the vampire myth, gives it an X-Files-esque spin, and because it's only six one hour episodes, does not even come close to jumping the shark.
After being shut down by spammers, the might Arch Pundit has returned, providing excellent insight and news on the STL political scene.
Oh, and although I had announced a contest for Gmail invitations, screw it - just let me know if you need one (or know of a worthy place to send them) and it's yours/theirs.
January 4, 2005
Will Eisner RIP
Many other blogs have talked about this, but I would like to offer my condolences to the family of Will Eisner - if all he was known for was his work on The Spirit, or Comics & Sequential Art, or even just any of his recent work, he would be regarded as one of the titans.
The fact that he accomplished all three....still blows my mind. We wouldn't be here if not for him.
The fact that he accomplished all three....still blows my mind. We wouldn't be here if not for him.
January 3, 2005
Irony
Just a thought I wanted to share...
This year, I decided to give up on the whole romance thing - I was trying way too hard, so I figured that maybe I wasn't in for the whole "relationship" thing. Maybe later, but right now, this year, wouldn't happen.
In the past 72 hours, I have had four - count 'em, four - inquiries about my love life, and reminders about what a nice guy I am, have I found Ms. Right, blah blah blah...
Sometimes, ya gotta laugh...
This year, I decided to give up on the whole romance thing - I was trying way too hard, so I figured that maybe I wasn't in for the whole "relationship" thing. Maybe later, but right now, this year, wouldn't happen.
In the past 72 hours, I have had four - count 'em, four - inquiries about my love life, and reminders about what a nice guy I am, have I found Ms. Right, blah blah blah...
Sometimes, ya gotta laugh...
January 2, 2005
Blog THIS, Pal!'s 2005 Resolutions
Normally, I don't believe in New Year's Resolutions - in short, the promises I make on January 1st are long forgotten by MLK Day. However, taking the Technorati challenge (and in a shameless attempt at self-promotion), here are my resolutions for 2005:
- No daytime talk shows - so no Oprah, Dr. Phil, or Montel for me. Of course, I rarely watch talk shows anyway, so this is an easy one to keep.
- Eat healthier and exercise more regularly - so, for me, it's putting down the Little Debbie snack cakes and the White Castles and making regular trips to my gym...or, possibly switching to the exercise room in my apartment building. Decisions, decisions...
- Once a month, purchase a comic/book/CD that I normally would not and enjoy it - my Netflix list is rather eclectic; why shouldn't I practice what I preach and break out of my rut? Get a comic that doesn't involve the spandex brigade. Read something I might not normally enjoy. Listen to music that isn't just another bloody reissue. In short, expand my horizons.
- Take that road trip I've been promising myself forever - Of course, I have to decide whether to drive to LaPlata (home of this gentleman), Columbia (cool stuff, with this guy's papers), Hannibal (home of Mark Twain), or Metropolis, Illinois. You can mutter "fanboy" under your breath; I'm not afraid.
- Say "No" more frequently - as some of my best friends know, I am a chronic overachiever. Everyone wants me to take charge - so saying "no" and meaning it will be my watchword this year.
- Get out and enjoy life more - hey, my schedule is starting to allow it; I need to get down with my bad self.
- When I'm at work, "work" doesn't mean reading blogs - self-explanatory.
- Have tons of fun, and not take myself seriously - again, self-explanatory.
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