The Crossroads

Artist of the Month: Christian Montalvo (September 2011)

2011-09-06T10:27:00Z

Every Month Section 8 Comics will spotlight a different Artist. These artists are going to be from all works of life not just from the Comic book industry but painters sculptors and any where else that we have felt there work has inspired others.

This month we bring to you Christian Montalvo of A.G.E. Studios. Born and raised in Queens New York, Christian and his brother Antonio started A.G.E. studios in 2003. They have been going strong ever since, with titles such as Donnie Bling-Bling, Devil’s Wind and Warcloud.

Christian has also done various fine art and has been a driving force to not only show comic book art as a fine art but also spot light other Latin artists. In the last 2 years he has put together 2 gallery shows. Fwacata! Look at My Hands and most recently the Monstros exhibit which explores the monsters and creatures of Latin culture.

Below are some samples of his work and for more visit his web site www.alphagodz.net

DRIVEN

Acrylic Paints on Canvas, 24" x 30" (FWACATA! Look At My Hands Exhibit), 2009

JAZZ

Ink on Paper with Digital Colors, (South Florida Local Silver Addy Award Winner), 2006

BOOP FICTION

Pencil & Ink on paper with Digital Colors, 2006

2PAC

Water Colors on Paper with Digital Colors, 2005 - 09

Leonardo Frontispiece (Mirage Studios, Tales of The TMNT #41)

Layouts & Inks: Christian Montalvo, Jan. 2008

FWACATA! LOOK AT MY HANDS

Illustrated in 2010

If you would like to recommend an artist to be spotlighted or would like to recommend yourself Email: Section8comics@gmail.com with artist of the month in the subject line.

Digital Comic Revolution or Industries Last Gasp

2011-08-16T11:18:38Z

Comic book characters like Superman, Batman, Spiderman, Ironman etc have experienced a massive increase in influence on popular culture consciousness. Comic book stories in general can be seen in countless cartoons and dvds, live action smash hit tv shows like Heroes or Walking Dead, mega- record breaking block buster movies. Warner Bros. is in the process of making the DC universe the staple franchise after Harry Potter. Disney is using Marvel characters as their top brand to expand their demographic internationally as well as locally. It couldn't be a better time to be a comic book fan it seems.

In reality, comic books as a literary art form, which was once one of the staple past time for children and teens are becoming a relic of the past. Finding itself in the company of color-forms, wooden tops, train sets and action figures. Sales of print comics have been dropping steadily year after year (combined comic sales were worth $635 million in 2010, down from $680 million in 2009). The average age of comic book collectors continue to get older. The younger generations are searching out video games, mp3's, social networking, internet and the slumping in front of the tv to watch a plethora of channels. The options are endless now and comic books are not one of them.

Market demand is causing many comic shops to close making comic books less acessable, which has always been on of the greatest appeals of a comic book. It was always there, not just in comic stores but in newsstands, some pharmacies sold it, corner delis, it was easy to get, and it was cheap. Comics use to be about the price of candy, now for about 2 comics you can get a used video game, a bunch of songs on Itunes, or rent a couple movies.

Then you have an American economy that is struggling to stay afloat and escape from economic armageddon. Not just small businesses are collapsing, but bigger companies are seeing themselves file for bankruptcy. The music industry is shrinking, the movie industry is in trouble experiencing less block busters, even the cable industry is being swallowed up by the digital television revolution led by Netflix, Youtube, and Googletv. Sports franchises are filing for bankruptcy and several leagues are engaged in labor battles currently. Times are changing fast and the facets of human life will move on as always. So what's happening to comic books is not an isolated incident, but the difference is those other industries have a way of adapting much easier than the medium of comic books. This is where digital-comics come in.

Same time, we must also remember that the black-market bootleggers are taking a hefty chunk out of all forms of entertainment including the comic book industry. This is the dark side to the promise of what can be the last bastion of hope for the industry: digital-comics.

In my personal opinion, I feel that if digital-comics are going to replace or be successful, they have to do the following:

1) If an opportunity arises, rivals must join forces and find a way to get out of this mess before it gets worse. Meaning Marvel and DC needs to open the door to the possibility of doing something unique artistically or market wise. Different than they have done in the past. Getting publicity by killing off that guy is not going to cut it. Something creative must be done. Also more support for independent publishers.

2) they have to become what comics books USE TO BE. Which means they have to be accessible, which they will be. If the apps are easy to download and fans don't have to spend an arm and a leg to get a DC, Marvel or Indi app.

3) they have to be amongst the MOST affordable things out there. There was a reason people considered comic books throwaways, cause they were cheap and they were sold to casual vendors. Regardless they were the most low maintenance things kids could get.

4) They have to be multi-medium friendly which means that the comic book writers and editors etc, have to be creative about this, find a way to connect their comic books to the social networks, tie it in somehow. Don't isolate comic book stories to just the book. They have to reach out and utilize the best concepts possible. Lots of guerilla marketing and support for independent websites, blog-sites. Anything and everything is game.

5) Web-comics are also a key to integrating the comic book industry to modern era. If anything else, I feel there is an untapped potential in web comics that has not been touched yet. The creative formats that many independent comic book writers and artists are utilizing online can totally revolutionize comic books as a medium all by itself.

There is always hope as long as there is imagination, but from the looks of things, there needs to be a changing and it all needs to be done before the final wave hits. Which means it must all be done soon and collectively.

Sources:

http://www.nbcsandiego.com/news/local/Comic-Book-Stores-Cling-to-Life-126030484.html

http://www.comicsalliance.com/2011/07/28/digital-comics-comic-con/

http://www.cbsnews.com/8301-504943_162-20080827-10391715.html

http://www.usatoday.com/news/nation/2005-07-11-pastimes-childhood_x.htm

http://www.newsarama.com/comics/digital-and-future-of-comic-book-shops-110810.html

by Duran Rivera

In The Works - July 2011

2011-07-11T18:50:56Z

Things are moving forward at a good pace and we have some great things in the works. Check out some of the things the Section 8 family is up to.

On the Web:

@ The 8 Spot

Strip creators Wilson Ramos-Jr. and Eric Rivera have been discussing putting a collection of strips together to see if it can be collected in a book. If things continue at the pace they have been going we might have a book for the New York comic con or at least a mock up.

http://www.the8spot.com/

A Work In Progress

Response to the strip has been very favorable and the art team has been trying different things with both coloring and gradients. The current storyline will be leading into the video game realm

http://www.the8spot.com/wip.html

At The Printers:

Currently we have 2 books for sale at Indie Planet. We will also be looking into using their digital download feature too.

Dark Bloods

http://www.indyplanet.com/store/product_info.php?products_id=5044

Ninja Mouse

http://www.indyplanet.com/store/product_info.php?products_id=5040

In Development:

Stars Edge

The black and white space epic is actually going to be re-released in color. We are hoping to have a color version ready to go by the New York Comic con.

http://www.the8spot.com/comics/starsedge.htm

The Mark!

The Mark! was born out of the bullpen messing around and has turned into one of the funniest things we have put together. The Mark! will be a series of 10 page short comics that will be a backup to our regular title. We will soon have an online short. above is some sample art from A Work in Progress artist JP Cheatham with inks by the Wombat and colors by Wilson Ramos-Jr.

http://www.the8spot.com/comics/themark.htm

Team Kaiju

Jokingly refereed to as the longest comic book in production Team Kaiju may actually finally go to the printers this summer and make an appearance at the NY Comic Con. But we make no promises.

http://www.the8spot.com/comics/teamkaiju.htm

Gaido-Xin

Gaido-Xin is still just in the pencils stage but what amazing pencils we have gotten so far. Penciler Nadir Balan has turned the Rivera brothers script into an amazing visual feast.

www.the8spot.com/comics/gaidoxin.htm

The Hook Up

We are still looking for an artist for this strip. The premise is about a group of friends trying to figure out the difference between getting laid and finding love. Hopefully soon we will see strips on the web.

The Wombat

Wilson Ramos-Jr. had created a goofy character named the Wombat based on a high school nickname he had. It was never intended to be a serious book but after much discussion we have decided to see if there might be something here for a limited run web comic. Still in the writing stage but initial concepts has been established and now it’s time to crank out a script.

Unnamed Anthology Project

Writer J.B. Eissac has been given a shot at writing the first story spotlighting Sunray. Eric Rivera will have the back up story a 3rd story may be added based on available space.

Studio Work

Liberty Trading Cards

Wilson Ramos-Jr is working on Sketch Cards for Cryptozoic Entertainment He joins artists like Erik Larsen, Charlie Adlard, Rob Liefeld, Frank Quitely and Terry Moore.

www.cryptozoic.com/tradingcards/cbldf-liberty-trading-cards

Random House

Wilson Ramos-Jr. also did some production/clean up work for an upcoming Sailor Moon project.

http://www.randomhouse.com/

What Our Friends are up to:

Mystic Creatures

Gene J. DeCicco has finally release his labor of love Mystic Creatures. With the help of Section 8 Comics Wilson Ramos-Jr the 2 have put together what looks like a great book.

http://www.facebook.com/pages/Mystic-Creatures-Fan-Page/203785522976916

Colorist Get Paid Too

2011-06-15T14:42:17Z

Conversation with Random Facebook "Friend"

RFF: What's Up?

Wilson: not much, just checking facebook.

RFF: awesome thats always fun
lol

Wilson: LOL yeah, pretty much.

RFF: do you work for a comic company?

Wilson: something like that, I'm a freelancer so I work for a few places.

RFF: aww ok, could you help me out? Say yes! lol

Wilson: with what?

RFF: pitching my comic

Wilson: I mostly handle coloring, Lettering and pre-press, I don't really deal with anyone that would handle that, The clients I do stuff with aren't doing any creator own books.

RFF: humm what stuff have you color?

WIlson: Thor, Wolverine, Zoom Suit, War of the independence. mostly indy stuff now a days.

RFF: ahh ok, would you be down to color for me and help me pitch
cant do puppy face smileys

Wilson: if you can match my rate, I do this for a living.

RFF: how much?

Wilson: Just for coloring 85 a page. That's my Indy rate which is about 1/2 what I get from marvel or dc.

So 15 minutes later, nothing and then he logs off.

Wilson: hey where did you go?

Review of the X-Men First Class

2011-06-10T12:31:00Z

Hey folks, Duran here! I just came back from the theater to check out the latest installment of the X-men franchise- X-men First Class. I have to admit it, I was wrong about this film. What was I wrong about?-- Pretty much whether this movie will rise heads and shoulders above most comic book movies of the past. I was wrong about whether it was worth my money. Unfortunately, I am wrong sometimes. But fortunately for the fans of the X-men I was wrong because I thought this was going to be another case of Fox raping a franchise that is considered proud and sacred to Marvelites. Fox didn't really wrong this one, they did pick at it a lil bit, they did fondle it just a tad, but not crossing the line though. Not at all.

Let me just say right off the bat, if you are one of those fan boys who loathes any changes made to a comic book movie, just stop reading right now. Turn off the computer and run really fast head first into the wall 'cause this is not going to be the movie for you. Yes, Matthew Vaughn, Sheldon Turner, Bryan Singer with screenplay duties by Ashley Edward Miller, Zack Stentz, Jane Goldman did make some dramatic changes to the X-men mythology, but the genius part of it is that they never (the key part here) violated the heart of the story. When it comes down to it, this movie feels like one of those graphic novels that have a different spin on the X-men mythology, but it totally embraces all the elements of the comic books and its characteristics.

The premise of First Class sets a young Professor X and Magneto in the 1960's era at the height of the Cold War. This version of the movie melds the mythology of the X-men with the historical events of the Cuban Missile crisis. Magneto/ Erik Lehnsherr grows up seeing and experiencing the harshest sides of humanity, while Professor X lives a more sheltered and loving upbringing. The film shows us first hand why and how they have come to logger-heads over how to deal with the mutant-human situation. The philosophical debate seem deeper and provides expansive layers than older X-men films and one can come away from it almost feeling an understanding of both sides. You can understand why mutants flip from Magneto to Xavier in the future.

The character development is great, and without leaving too much to the imagination you see the young Mystique/Raven cultivate her sense of identity and merge it to Magnetos vision. You see the young X-men, who are lost and trying to find themselves in the world not just as teenagers, but as beings with powers that sets them apart and compromises their chances of being accepted by humanity. Their compounded identity crisis is the tool others (CIA, Sebastian Shaw & Magneto) will take advantage of to recruit these powerful mutants.

Sebastian Shaw is played amazingly by Kevin Bacon. He captures the balance of a powerful ruthless mutant with the fatherly love of an elder statesmen to the other mutants in the film, including Erik Lehnsherr. Everything Sebastian Shaw is- is a reflection of what Magneto can become at his worst.

Ultimately, this film is worth the ticket price. When I first saw the previews and the initial movie covers, heard about the new characters that were going to be presented in the film. I thought this was going to be a throw away film. An afterthought to the X-men cinematic universe. I was wrong. It is a unique episode that is worth taking a look at. It can stand all on its own without trying to attatch itself to other X-men movies- but it still does. A few nods and winks at future and past X-men movies are done but they dont seem like they are forced at all.

I personally feel X-men First Class is a must see. What about you readers out there? What did you think about it? I personally feel this could be one of the best- if not the best X-men movie to come out yet. Where does it stand on your list of X-men movies- or comic book movies for that matter?

Final Score:
Four out of Five 8balls

by Duran Rivera

In the Works - June 2011

2011-06-07T16:43:00Z

Things are moving forward at a good pace and we have some great things in the works. Check out some of the things the Section 8 family is up to.

On the Web:

@ The 8 Spot

Strip creators Wilson Ramos-Jr. and Eric Rivera have been discussing putting a collection of strips together to see if it can be collected in a book.

http://www.the8spot.com/

A Work in Progress

Response to the strip has been very favorable and the art team has been trying different things with both coloring and gradients. I think it’s moving along quite well.

http://www.the8spot.com/wip.html

At The Printers:

Currently we have 2 books for sale at Indie Planet. We will also be looking into using their digital download feature too.

Dark Bloods

http://www.indyplanet.com/store/product_info.php?products_id=5044

Ninja Mouse

http://www.indyplanet.com/store/product_info.php?products_id=5040

In Development:

Stars Edge

The black and white space epic is actually going to be re-released in color. We are hoping to have a color version ready to go by the New York Comic con.

http://www.the8spot.com/comics/starsedge.htm

The Mark!

The Mark! was born out of the bullpen messing around and has turned into one of the funniest things we have put together. The Mark! will be a series of 10 page short comics that will be a backup to our regular title. We will soon have an online short.  above is some sample art from A Work in Progress artist JP Cheatham with inks by the Wombat and colors by Wilson Ramos-Jr.

http://www.the8spot.com/comics/themark.htm

Team Kaiju

Jokingly refereed to as the longest comic book in production Team Kaiju may actually finally go to the printers this summer and make an appearance at the NY Comic Con. But we make no promises.

http://www.the8spot.com/comics/teamkaiju.htm

Gaido-Xin

Gaido-Xin has is still just in the pencils stage but what amazing pencils we have gotten so far. Penciler Nadir Balan has turned the Rivera brothers script into an amazing visual feast.

http://www.the8spot.com/comics/gaidoxin.htm

The Hook Up

We are still looking for an artist for this strip. The premise is about a group of friends trying to figure out the difference between getting laid and finding love. Hopefully soon we will see strips on the web.

The Wombat

Wilson Ramos-Jr. had created a goofy character named the Wombat based on a high school nickname he had. It was never intended to be a serious book but after much discussion we have decided to see if there might be something here for a limited run web comic. Still in the writing stage but initial concepts has been established and now it’s time to crank out a script.

Unnamed Anthology project

Writer J.B. Eissac has been given a shot at writing the first story spotlighting Sunray. Eric Rivera will have the back up story a 3rd story may be added based on available space.

Studio Work

Liberty Trading Cards

Wilson Ramos-Jr is working on Sketch Cards for Cryptozoic Entertainment He joins artists like Erik Larsen, Charlie Adlard, Rob Liefeld, Frank Quitely and Terry Moore.

http://www.cryptozoic.com/tradingcards/cbldf-liberty-trading-cards

What Our Friends are up to:

Mystic Creatures

Gene J. DeCicco has finally release his labor of love Mystic Creatures. With the help of Section 8 Comics Wilson Ramos-Jr the 2 have put together what looks like a great book.

http://www.facebook.com/pages/Mystic-Creatures-Fan-Page/203785522976916

Not That Lonely Yet

2011-05-06T13:06:00Z

So I was traveling the internet and found this wonderful little gem. Apparently it's a device that can be used to record and simulate kisses. So that you can send them over distances. They are even talking about having celebrities upload there kisses and fans can buy them for a small fee.

http://youtu.be/PspagsTFvlg

Have we lost our minds?!? I mean seriously. Kissing isn't about sex, It's a display of love and affection. Now we want to digitize it to send it to people. What if you e-mail it to the wrong person are you cheating? You know that argument is coming. Years from now when they perfect the machine some girl is going to walk in and say I saw you sent a digital kiss to so and so. HOW COULD YOU!!! You know I hate her!! We're Done!!! If you think I am exaggerating you never dated a crazy woman.

And who thinks playing with a straw is the same as making out with a girl. If that's the case any girl who has a milkshake from McDonald's is cheating on her boyfriend.

Look I may be lonely and spend my weekends like the video below but even I know this is just wrong. (By the way this video is awesome.)

http://youtu.be/54VJWHL2K3I?hd=1

by "Sir" Eric

In the Works

2011-05-03T22:36:00Z

Time for a little shameless promotion, here is what the Section 8 Family is up to.

On the Web:

@ the 8 Spot

The comic strip is now going up twice a week. Artist Wilson Ramos-Jr. was able to build up enough of a buffer that we think that we can not only keep this up but maybe even throw a few more surprises your way.

http://www.the8spot.com/

A Work in Progress

The strip has been up for just over a month now and it's going strong. Response has been very favorable. Please stop by and take a look. I think you will enjoy.

http://www.the8spot.com/wip.html

At The Printers:

Currently we have 2 books for sale at Indie Planet. We will also be looking into using there digital download feature too.

Dark Bloods

http://www.indyplanet.com/store/product_info.php?products_id=5044

Ninja Mouse

http://www.indyplanet.com/store/product_info.php?products_id=5040

In Development:

The Hook Up

Currently sent to my Art Director to see who would be perfect for this new online comic strip that we are developing about a group of friends trying to figure out the difference between getting laid and finding love. Hopefully by the summer time we will see strips on the web.

The Wombat

Stars Edge

The Black and White space epic is actually going to be Rereleased in color. We are hoping to have a color version ready to go by the New York Comic con.

http://www.the8spot.com/comics/starsedge.htm

Unnamed Anthology project

A writers meeting is in the work so that the creative writers at Section 8 Comics can have there ideas tested. But this anthology is going to have a little bit of a twist.

What Our Friends are up to:

Mystic Creatures

Gene J DeCicco has finally release his labor of love Mystic Creatures. With the help of Section 8 Comics Wilson Ramos-Jr the 2 have put together what looks like a great book.

http://www.facebook.com/pages/Mystic-Creatures-Fan-Page/203785522976916

Monstros Event

The Alpha Gods are at it again proving that comic book artist are still artist with another galery show at the Clements Soto Velez Cultural Center. The Event is entitled Monstros and is art that is all about what makes us scared with a Spanish Flavor added in. The opening reception is this Thursday (May 5th) Hope you can come by and check it out.

http://www.facebook.com/event.php?eid=192811980763692

Upcoming Shows:

Bronx Heroes Comic Con

We will be exhibiting at the Bronx Heroes con this Saturday (May 7th) The convention is being held at the Bronx Museum of the Arts and will run from 11:00 to 7:00. If you get a chance stop on by and buy lots of stuff from us... Seriously we need the money.

http://www.bronxheroescomiccon.com/

DC Comics Plans a Revamped Justice League Movie

2011-04-19T05:22:00Z

On the heels of Marvel's plans to release the Avengers in 2012, Warner Bros./ DC comics has just informed the public of their plans to release Justice League in 2013. Now that sounds like a dream come true to many fans who can't wait to see this long awaited project to come to fruition, to hardcore DC comic fans this sounds like it might be one of those "It's too good to be true so it probably is" examples. Also recent comments by Zack Snyder reinforces those concerns.

DC recently stated they are: “looking at Marvel's recent success for a new way to operate.” So taken at face value, that would mean that DC is planning on following the template of Marvel franchises by introducing characters in their own movies first, and then having them all unite in this one huge mega-blockbuster cross over event that is Justice League of America. That sounds reasonable, because so far Marvels enjoying much success and the anticipation amongst not just hardcore fans but the movie industry itself is building. Avengers looks to be a smash hit. It's not a complicated formula, successful franchise characters that will build a brand, familiarity and a following added together would mean a great chance at a huge blockbuster.-- Only thing is, this is Warner Bros./DC. They've had a track record these past 20 years outside of Batman at truly smashing any remnant of logic when it comes to developing a dream movie.

When it comes to head starts, Marvel has enjoyed the mother of head starts- lapping DC twice over when it comes to introducing their characters on the international cinematic stage. The DC comics ruled the 80's motion picture era with Superman and Michael Keaton's Batman. That's it. Done. Batman Returns was so-so then two consecutive nightmares. The cinematic Marvel era started in 1998 with Blade and there was no turning back. Even with some mediocre renditions of famous Marvel Super-Heroes, Marvel has enjoyed a plethora of major motion picture releases with the likes of:

Blade (trilogy)

X-men (trilogy)

Spiderman (trilogy)

Daredevil

Hulk (twice)

Fantastic Four (twice)

Man-Thing

Ghost Rider

The Punisher (twice)

Iron-Man (twice)

Wolverine

and even Electra got her own movie!

When we look at DC comics we have:

Batman (twice)

Superman

and umm....Catwoman (which bombed and was nominated as one of the worst films ever made receiving numerous Golden Raspberry Awards).

Let's not forget the 1997 film Steel with Shaquille O'neal (nuff said).

Jonah Hex (which also bombed and was nominated for Golden Raspberry awards as well).

The Watchmen (we'll list as a DC film but we must note that the Watchmen do not exist in the main DC universe. It's a one shot adaptation of a graphic novel so they are not apart of plans.)

Do take note, someone is getting schooled here when it comes to developing motion pictures for their franchise characters. Development of the Flash, Wonder-woman, Super-man, Green Lantern have experienced development hell like no other. That being said, DC and Warner Bros. recognize when they are getting schooled and have begun to follow the blueprint left by Marvel. DC comics has it's own Cinematic Studio now, they are beginning to develop their own films on their own terms it seems. The Green Lantern is in post-production, a new Superman movie is on the fast track, Batman is also, Wonder-woman is-- coming out on television (?)- but it's okay, we'll take baby steps. Shazam is on horizon-- somewhere, out there. Justice League is on fast track with Christopher Nolan overseeing all the DC films leading to the big blockbuster, so things look promising. Right?

Not so fast. Hold on. One second. What?-- So according to Zack Snyder his Superman is not going to be the same Superman as the one we see in Justice League? Christian Bale is bolting after Dark Knight Rising and there could possibly be two different worlds separate from the other? There's a chance that even the Green Lantern played by Ryan Renolds might not be in the Justice League movie? Ugh... Double Ugh.

When asked how Superman would fit into the Justice League Mega- Movie here's what Zack Snyder's quoted as saying:

It doesn’t. Like what Chris Nolan is doing and what I’m doing with Superman, what they’ll do with Justice League will be it’s own thing with it’s own Batman and own Superman. We’ll be over here with our movie and they kinda get to do it twice which is kinda cool.

No. It's not. Not even a little. Makes no sense.

Redundancies abound, and in so many ways this doesn't work as well as what Marvel is doing with Avengers. You want to talk about rushing a project? There you have it right there. Making up for lost time are we? What is pretty awesome is not only the Super-Heroes coming together on the big screen but also your familiarizing yourself with the performances that your favorite actor has established with this Superhero. Here with Justice League you do not know what to expect. You have nothing to work with here. I'll never get to wonder what a perticular actors take on my favorite super heroes will mix together on the big screen. This is why you keep the same actor and not change them from film to film! If not what is the point of having Christian Bale as Batman from movie to movie? Why so much talk about Toby McGuire being replaced, or Brandon Routh being in the new Superman movie? Why such a big fuss by fans about Edward Norton being replaced on the Hulk?

When you're putting a character on screen you are totally binding them with the actor that is portraying them, and we see what they become. We develop a familiarity with them. Michael Keatons Batman is totally different than Christian Bales Batman. There's something to be said about maintaining some sort of consistency.

Having Flash and Wonder-woman, or other characters spin out of the Justice League movie is just going ass backwards. It's a cross over movie without the cross over. This is like X-men then spin offs coming afterwards. Xmen is not a cross over film despite all the cool characters that can stand on their own in their own franchises. Justice League is a vacillation of DC's best known characters. How are you going to "vacillate" if the characters aren't known? The appeal of Justice League is the Almagam of established sovereign Super-Heroes coming together for a common cause. You won't get that sense in the movie as dramatically unless you establish it.

Who wears the costumes is as key as the costume themselves. It can make or break a film. That's the whole reason for the casting process and the search for the right person. This is no different than having a local sports team losing a franchise player every year to get replaced by another. There is a face of the franchise, someone for people to attach and develop some connection to.

I'm not saying this movie will bomb for sure, but this is definitely disconcerting developments. With the track record of what DC/ Warner bros have concerning their super hero movies, hearing this should make a fan very worried.

by Duran Rivera

Where it All Started-The birth of AWIP

2011-04-15T11:53:00Z

So a couple of years back I had a job very similar to that of the young protagonist in the Strip. During that period, I would fill the quiet time with surfing the web, and reading short stories and some other webcomics; such as Something Positive, Order of the Stick, and Girls with Slingshots to name a few. I forget which new webcomic I had come across but I had mentioned it to my brother to check one out and said it was pretty decent.

My brother, true to form, went on a rant on how his life is so busy that he could not be bothered with something else to read. Then he said something that actually intrigued me:
“If you want me to read a comic, write it.”

Well why the hell not? I fancy myself to be a decent writer, albeit a lazy and easily distracted one, but a writer none the less. Lazy as characterized as the webcomic has been up for about a month and its taking me this long to write a mere handful of letters as an introduction. So with those encouraging words I sat down and within an hour I had written 10 4-panel comic strips…

I then realized that I had blatantly ripped off Waterson and wrote about a little boy with an imaginary stuffed Velociraptor and had titled it “Melvin and Bob”. In fear of severe and unnecessary litigation, I abandoned that project and started working on “A Work in Progress”.

The concept of these 2 characters appeals to me in different ways and I hope will appeal to you in some manner. Enjoy.

Click here to see my strip A Work in Progress

“It's only work if somebody makes you do it” -Calvin

JP Cheatham and LJ Hansen's Gallery

2011-04-15T11:26:00Z

New Gallery up spotlighting JP Cheatham and LJ Hanson's art. You can see the Large gallery here.

...

THOR PREDICTIONS

2011-04-12T13:56:00Z

I am liking what I'm seeing from the Thor movie, but I can't help but feel there is "something" missing from it. Something that is missing from the previews and trailers and marketing that would take it over the top. Some sticking point that separates it from the other movies out there. What is it that differentiates it and makes it worth the 13 dollars?

I know Iron man had that full blown wide open action. Cool amazing armor, the tech that would be a wonder to see on screen. Never really seen such a cool mechanized character. Also great chemistry with Robert Downey and Gweneth Paltrow.

Captain America seems to have the throw back 1940's World War 2 theme to it. Really cool Superhero emerging from that, the great technology and awesome looking retro action scenes. That's definitely different than other super hero movies. I think Cap would do well.

Avatar had a lot going for it to help establish itself from the rest of the pack. There was much talk about it's unique special effects, never ever seen before on the big screen. All the greatest filmmakers were visiting the set and saying this will be like nothing anyone has witnessed. So, there was a lot of talk and anticipation in that regard. Then it was the legendary Director James Cameron at the helm. His first big budget movie since his record breaker Titanic. Then you have ultimately at the heart of it an old fashioned tale about love, sacrifice, betrayal and redemption. It definitely built enough curiosity in people to warrant 13 dollars. The great reviews, the controversy and some of Cameron's King Midas luck behind it added to the success.

Green Lantern I think will do very well, and is a perfect example of great promotion because despite all the special effects and amazing comic characters they feature very simple heartfelt themes in the heroes epic. It has a very strange Science Fiction angle to it. Weird looking aliens, a cosmic connection, a great well known actor in Ryan Reynolds. And also from the latest trailer, they've grabbed you with its heart. They did a great job of introducing you to Hal Jordan and establishing the connection between you and him. He seems randomly chosen to bear the ultimate responsibility but its actually fate. This likable and very mortal, vulnerable man must rise to the occasion and take on the role of the cosmic guardian Green Lantern and face one of the cosmos' greatest threats. It's simple, pure, I get it.

I don't really 'get' Thor. It's not that simple. I don't have that 'connection'. The trailers didn't make me care about what's going to happen in the story.

What does Thor have? A cool looking big guy who throws a hammer and a not so cool supporting cast outside of Natalie Portman. Corny clips from the movie.

Remember despite the awesome action scenes where he fights the ice giants and he heads to Asgard and the scenes where he battles the destroyer, this movie has to "grab" the audience. People are spoiled. Also important to remember that Clash of the Titans didn't do great in theaters either. Not just for its bad reviews but also because it didn't have anything unique that grabbed enough people to establish that opening box office number.

The reviews and word of mouth have more to do with the legs of a movie. How many people will go and see it twice, and how many people will end up going to check out a movie so many others are praising.

So far there is nothing THAT alluring and appealing to Thor that pulls it out from the rest of the pack and thats unfortunate. I'm a big fan of Thor, I'm a huge fan of the Avengers, Iron-Man and what Marvel has planned for their movies. I want to see Thor a success because I would like to not only see sequels but Marvel continue to push their other films based on other franchise characters like Dr. Strange, or Ant-Man or Nick Fury etc. If this movie gets mediocre returns it may slow down the process a bit. Even though Marvel is owned by Disney, Marvel Studios is working on their own independent accord.

It looks like Marvel is autonomous in its decisions and that's because it is making money and coming through on their promises not only to fans but to investors. But if that doesn't happen, then you might see the heads of Disney take more of a hands on approach if Marvel ends up falling flat on their faces. One movie is not going to have that happen but I can see a couple movies making that a dreadful reality. Another angle to that is this is a small studio and they cannot handle losses like big studios can, so lets hope these films develop a good foundation for what Marvel has planned.

Marvel Studio films have been for the most part totally true and loyal to the comic book fans and the results have been great! It has been a victory for the comic book geeks out there not just Marvel but DC, Image etc. If that well dries up, the movie execs who know nothing about comic books nor the appeal of franchise characters are going to engulf themselves into the productions and we're going to see films like Xmen 3 or Daredevil regardless of if it's a Marvel Studios production. Lets cross our fingers and hope this movie kicks butt!

by Duran Rivera

Comic Review 3-06-11

2011-03-06T22:31:00Z

I know I am way behind. Sometimes real life kicks your but.

The Amazing Spiderman #652

http://marvel.com/comic_books/issue/30327/amazing_spider-man_1999_652

Initial Impression from Cover: Great Cover. You know Spidey is about to get a serious beat down.

Would I recommend to a friend? Yes.

After Reading: Ok it’s official I have to put Spider-Man back on my list. There are 2 stories going on just like there should be. There is Peter Parkers life and there is Spider-Man’s life. You see Peter is enjoying things with his girlfriend, Carlie but there are things going on with Mary Jane Watson. Meanwhile Spider Man is dealing with an insect themed crew that includes the Scorpion in his new look, which personally I’m not a big fan of but it’s nice to see Mac Gargan back.

Will I get the next issue? Yes.

Avengers Academy #7

http://marvel.com/comic_books/issue/29222/avengers_academy_2010_7

Initial Impression from Cover: Another Good Cover. Between the image and the cover text you know the story should be about Henry Pym becoming Giant-Man.

Would I recommend to a friend? Yes

After Reading: Ok a month before they had Hank Pym as the Wasp and now he is Giant Man again. This reeks of a forced storyline to me. By that I mean it seems Hank Pym is Giant Man now simply because of the new Avengers Cartoon. This is purely a guess and not based on anything I have ever heard. Even still I think that Avengers Academy is a pretty good title and I will keep reading it.

Will I get the next issue? Yes

Batgirl #18

http://www.dccomics.com/dcu/comics/?cm=16960

Initial Impression from Cover: I have mixed feelings about this cover. I am not a big fan of the art style but content wise it’s everything I want in a cover.

Would I recommend to a friend? Yes.

After Reading: Bryan Miller is doing an excellent job with Batgirl. He has a good grasp on Stephanie Brown. This episode was a cute valentine issue using Klarion the Witch boy. This story is completely stand-alone and doesn’t affect anything else but it doesn’t need to. The story is just Fun.

Will I get the next issue? Hell Yes.

Powergirl #20

http://www.dccomics.com/dcu/comics/?cm=16652

Initial Impression from Cover: Another of DC’s Pin up cover… BLECH.

Would I recommend to a friend? Maybe.

After Reading: Judd Winick has always been very hit or miss for me as a writer. I enjoy some of his stuff while other things are just kind of… Meh. I think he may have a great story in him but I haven’t seen it yet. I would really like to see what happens if he was given a chance to make his own character and series. Maybe he needs to have free reign cause his current Powergirl story seems slow and stilted even though most of the story is combat.

Will I get the next issue? Maybe

X-Factor #214

http://marvel.com/comic_books/issue/35295/x-factor_2005_214

Initial Impression from Cover: It’s amazing how simple things can tell you what the story is about. By giving Darwin a cowboy hat and 6 shooters it tells you the story should be about something having to do with the old west.

Would I recommend to a friend? Yes

After Reading: Peter David has done some really good stores and this issue seemed like a type of Foreshadowing to a future story line. Darwin is in this weird Ghost town where he has to come to grips with the fact that his time in Asguard has altered him more than he suspected. I picture a future storyline with Mirage from the new mutants spinning off from this tale. I don’t know what will really happen but I am enjoying it anyway.

Will I get the next issue? Yes

Comic Review 2-19-11

2011-02-19T20:39:00Z

Ok, so I was out of town for a few weeks and not able to pick up my books. So what I am going to do is just pick 5 books at random from my huge stack of books every few days till I’m caught up. Oh and just a heads up I am adding a new critique, I will list weather or not I would get the next issue and would I recommend the book to a friend.

NOTE: Now I know I picked these at random cause after looking at all the books I realize I hate all the covers. I have some DC books that are still doing the pinup covers and all the Marvel books I have are pinups as well. Not one of them gives me a clue as to the story inside. Again my personal issue is I feel that covers should never be so generic you could just take it and slap it on a poster. It may be my age showing but I liked word balloons or text that gave a clue as to the story with an image that might be from the book, but enough of my complaining here are the first 5 books.

Green Arrow #8

http://www.dccomics.com/dcu/comics/?cm=16614

Initial Impression from Cover: See note above.

Would I recommend to a friend? Yes

After Reading: Writer J.T. Krul has done some amazing things with Green Arrow. He has found a way to bring the whole Robin Hood story to a modern time with Green Arrow and yet not make it seem childish or a cliché. Ever since Green Arrow has lost everything including his friends in the Justice League and all that went down with Arsenal there was really no where for Green Arrow to go. Suddenly a magical forest appeared in Star City and the Green Arrow has made it his home as he has been finding himself. It seems by returning him to a simpler time Ollie is finding his grounding and working his way back mentally.
    One of the events in the current storyline is give him a sidekick named Galahad. Galahad is obviously mentally unstable but the magic forest gives him purpose and it’s almost as if the forest is using him as a vessel to help Green Arrow. Now they have started to introduce other heroes into the mix and amped the mysticism in the book, which I enjoy since Green arrow is such a simple character. You have a guy running around with a bow and arrow and he is being surrounded by Etrigan the Demon and the Phantom Stranger… It doesn’t get any better than that.

Will I get the next issue? Yes

Heroes for Hire #2

http://marvel.com/comic_books/issue/37196/heroes_for_hire_2010_2

Initial Impression from Cover: See note above.

Would I recommend to a friend? Yes.

After Reading: I really like the idea of this book. I think that they have taken the whole Charlie’s Angels/Birds of Prey Concept of a boss who is assigning missions and who sees the big picture and turned it on its ear. Misty Knight is sending various mercenaries and Supers who could use some extra cash on missions. This is a great way to bring back characters who don’t have there own book and still keep a steady story going, but if that’s not enough you have the fact that Misty Knight is actually being controlled by someone else, the Puppet Master. This is interesting and has me curious to see how it unfolds.

Will I get the next issue: Yes

Power Man and Iron Fist #1 of 5

http://marvel.com/comic_books/issue/36035/power_man_and_iron_fist_2010_1

Initial Impression from Cover: See note above.

Would I recommend to a friend: No.

After Reading: I am a little disappointed in the new Power Man and Iron Fist partially because there is a new Power Man but also because I find the new Power Man a bit of a caricature. I like Luke Cage. Over the years writers have given him a progression. He has turned from an angry black man who was just out for himself into a man who now has a family and an important role in the super hero community.
    Now you have a new Power Man named Victor Alvarez and on the whole I don’t like him. He is one of those characters that doesn’t make sense. Why work with Iron Fist if you don’t trust his judgment? I feel like Victor is only working with Iron fist to increase his rep and give him some respectability, but I’m not even sure he respects Iron Fist.
    I admit this is my first exposure to the new Power Man and he may have a major back story that was revealed before in some other book but as the first issue of a brand new series this was lacking. This story was introducing him to a bunch of readers who have no idea who this guy is and the writer didn’t make him likable. Honestly I don’t know if I will pick up the next issue.

Will I get the next issue? Maybe but now it depends more on the funds I have when it comes out.

Teen Titans #91

http://www.dccomics.com/dcu/comics/?cm=16649

Initial Impression from Cover: See note above.

Would I recommend to a friend: No

After Reading: It’s amazing to me that I keep getting this book. I know that I’m really getting the book out of a sense of nostalgia for the old Wolfman and Perez Titans as well as the original Young Justice series. The problem is that I don’t think the current line up is solid. Both in the old Titans and Young Justice there was a feel of family even with the occasional odd man out there was still a feel that they generally care about each other. Between Ravager and the new psychotic Robin, bringing back Kid Flash and Superboy, the weird on again off again romance between Changeling/Beast Boy and Raven and finally throw in the fact that Wonder Girl is lost I honestly don’t feel like any 2 characters like each others as just friends. It’s almost too much drama. I almost don’t really know where the adventures end and begin cause all the soap opera nonsense over shadows it. I’m not saying personal stories can’t be done but I think their needs to be a balance.
    All in all I hope that this is all because JT Krul, who I happen to like as a writer, is trying to deal with all the cross over garbage from the Blackest Night as well as what I am guessing are editorial commands to bring Kid Flash, Superboy and the new Robin into the mix because of the new Young Justice TV show he is trying to find his footing. Realistically the next few issues will be very telling. The current story arc is over and they are starting one with Red Robin. If some of the resolutions that happened already and some of the friendships that are starting to form cement than they may be on the path to recreating that Titans feel I am looking for.   (That’s only a guess, not a fact about the line up change.)

Will I get the next issue: Yes

Thunderbolts #152

http://marvel.com/comic_books/issue/35672/thunderbolts_2006_152

Initial Impression from Cover: See note above.

Would I recommend to a friend: No.

After Reading: I started getting back into Thunderbolts when they revamped it and put Luke Cage in charge. I was hoping the new direction would be more interesting but honestly I am finding hard to get into the book. Hell, even the cliffhanger ending of this book of having Hyperion turn on them while not unexpected is kind of repetitive since he is being used to replace a guy that already turned on them (Crossbones). The new Thunderbolts was supposed to be a Marvel version of the Suicide Squad but to be honest the feeling just isn’t right. I think one of the big problems with comics today is the fact that writers constantly have to deal with big crossovers. I think this is preventing them from getting a good writing rhythm going and preventing any long time story arcs to be properly planned.

Will I get the next issue: Maybe…

Eagle Awards and Talent House

2011-02-11T13:14:00Z

So myself and some of the other guys at Section 8 Comics got nominated for Eagle awards.

Here are the categories we were nominated for and who was nominated.

Favorite Newcomer Writer
Eric Rivera

Favorite Newcomer Artist
Daren Douglas
Nadir Balan

Favorite Writer
Eric Rivera

Favorite Artists
Nadir Balan

Favorite Coulourist
Wilson Ramos-Jr.

Favorite Letterer
Wilson Ramos-Jr.

Favorite Publisher
Section 8 Comics

Favorite American Comicbook: Colour
Ninja Mouse

Favorite American Comicbook: Black and White
Stars Edge

Favorite Webbased Comic
@the 8 spot

Some of our friends who were also nominated are:

Favorite Newcomer Writer
Dave Ryan

Favorite New Comer Artist
Dave Ryan

Favorite Writer
Dave Ryan

Favorite Writer/Artisit
Dave Ryan

Favorite Artists
Dave Ryan

Favorite Publisher
Red Anvil

Favorite American Comic Book: Colour
War of the Independents

Favorite New Comicbook
War of the Independents

Favorite 2010 Continued Story
War of The Independents

Please go and show your support and vote over at www.eagleawards.co.uk

Also Section 8 artist Daren Douglas has a submission over at Talent House www.talenthouse.com

The Cape Vs Young Justice

2011-01-27T11:13:00Z

I don’t like to judge a TV show till I have seen at least 3 episodes and when I realized that I would catch the third episode of The Cape and the third episode of Young Justice the same week it just seemed natural to compare both shows. On the one hand you have a live action show on a major network that is an original concept… or is at least supposed to be an original concept. On the other hand you have Young Justice not only does it have the source material of a DC Comic that ran for over 50 issues but can be viewed as just the newest in a series of cartoons that have all spun of from the 1990’s Batman Animated Series. Other great cartoons would include Batman Beyond, Justice League, Superman, Justice league Unlimited and Static Shock. (Before anyone harasses me and says they are not spin offs I am referring to the fact that Batman’s success caused a surge in DC cartoons to be created. All of who seem to share a cohesive universe)
Now if the internet is any indication I am following the crowd on this in that I find Young Justice to be a better-written show. I normally hate to do that, but I can’t argue with reality. The Cape is a series of highs and lows for me. I enjoy the visual elements of the show, the vanishing effects, the use of the cape as a weapon, the look of the hero and the villain are all amazing. Unfortunately the story has too many clichés, contradictions and inconsistencies. In one episode he goes from nearly dead to a master illusionist, escape artist and fighter in what seems like a crazy weekend for him. Had they made it seem like more time had passed for him I might buy it. In the three episodes I watched I came up with about a few problems I had with the story that could have easily be rewritten to make the story more believable.

If he is some sort of former military badass why not use guns. One of the key things about classic heroes is they don’t kill and I get that the Cape is supposed to follow that thread but all I keep thinking is if this is a former soldier and a former cop why the hell doesn’t he use a gun.

Why is he working with criminals and why are the criminals working with him. The circus of crime is cool and all but I don’t get why they are working together. Supposedly it was cause of The Capes access but the security would change after the first few robberies why does the circus keep him around?

If you were betrayed by your best friend wouldn’t you watch him. See if he tries to do anything shady to your family.

Why reveal yourself as The Cape only to your son. Now anyone he tells about “The Cape” is going to think he is crazy.

Why trust Orwell at all she got you screwed over and doesn’t trust you enough not to tell you her name when she knows everything about you. (And writers it’s not going to be a surprise when you reveal that Orwell is related to Chess, probably his daughter. Unless the writers change it at the last minute cause everyone already figured it out.)

How is he learning everything so fast? It seems like he becomes a master knife catcher in like an afternoon. I will admit the scene was funny just not believable.

Overall I don’t expect the cape last long, what is probably most disappointing is some executive is going to point to The Cape and say comic book shows don’t work. The truth is this show will fail cause of bad writing and bad writing alone. Meanwhile Young Justice is an excellent show that I hope lasts a long time. The show is slowly developing but in such a good way that you are interested. It has made some changes from the original source material but the changes to me feel like they are taking the best elements from the 80’s Teen titans series, the Young Justice comic book and the current Teen Titans series and combining them in such a way that I think the story is unfolding nicely.

Speedy not joining the team yet introing him and showing images of another arrowed theme female hero leads me to believe that Arrowette will be introduced soon. This means not only is the team not complete at the end of the first episode but we are 3 episodes in and we still have not been introduced to the whole team. I think this is being done to make sure that nothing feels rushed which is my main problem with The Cape. It is sad that a cartoon geared at a younger audience is treating it’s viewers with more respect for their intelligence than a show on major network during prime time.

by Sir Eric

Uncharted The Movie

2011-01-25T13:51:00Z

Uncharted is a blockbuster action adventure video game franchise developed Naughty Dog and published exclusively by the Sony Playstation3 that is now being made into a big-budget motion picture. It's amongst the more successful video game franchises of the modern era. The first video game was met with high praise by the video game industry while the second was given perfect scores and received numerous awards. The game's story was praised for it's top notch quality: Great characters, story arc, and memorable action scenes, and awe inspiring visuals. Many even said that it was better than the new Indiana Jones movie. It was reminiscent of the Indiana Jones franchises in many ways.

Right now the movie is moving forward. It's being fast tracked to a release

I think its a bad idea to get him to play the role. I think so far they are doing a bad job in promoting the movie. The pr work on this movie is sloppy, it isn’t a good sign for the movie. Mark Walburge is a great actor and all, but I think another actor could have played him better.

I don’t think changing the story of Uncharted was necessary. They are always going to say crap to belittle the video game and all, but adding his family history and making him to be a descendant of Sir Francis Drake is not necessary.

I hope they have sully in this also. I can almost assume they are going to change the theme to that as well.

I always considered Uncharted to be a Romance/ Action adventure. I think they would have been well served in putting this movie forward.

That’s just my two cents.

So far fans have been clamoring for Nathan Fillion to take on the role of the famed adventurer Nathan Drake. I myself would also agree. I think the actor is recognizable and established enough to command a confidence in his work, he's a great actor, and more importantly, while there might be other actors which would play Nathan Drake amazingly- Nathan Fillion just seems like he IS Nathan Drake. He embodied the spirit of that character in Serenity, and Firefly as the anti-hero.

There are numerous arguments to be made for Mark Walhberg playing Nathan Drake, and all are valid. One of the arguments is that Mark Walhberg is at the peak of his game right now, being in various successful movies in the past. He might not embody the character as much as Nathan Fillion seems to, but he can do much to carry a movie on his own accord. Maybe Mark Walhberg knocked it out of the park in the auditions. Maybe his chemistry with other actors or in certain scenes were stronger in every sense of the word.

The other argument to be made for Mark Walhberg is that this is a business. And Mark Wahlberg is a bankable actor and would bring in tons of money to a movie franchise looking for exposure and success. I would counter that argument in stating that people don't care as much as producers or movie studios would like to believe in recognizable actors. A great story, and pleasurable experience would dwarf a star studded crap-fest any day. Word of mouth would do more to bring exposure to a franchise than an actor. When a movie relies heavilly on actors to move a story forward, for me it kind of expresses a lack of confidence in the story and direction of the production.

All in all there is much to be skeptical about for this fast-tracked movie (which is going to start production in the Summer of 2011). I don't think fans should give up hope just yet. The best thing to do is to hold your breaths though. On second thought, maybe you shouldn't hold your breath.

Duran Rivera