Mr. H, Author at Graphic Policy

Author Archives: Mr. H

Rhode Island Comic Con 2015 : Interview with Ethan Van Sciver

Posted on November 9, 2015 by Mr. H

Having attended the Rhode Island Comic Con this past weekend on November 6th-8th held at the Dunkin’ Donuts Center, I was very fortunate to have the opportunity to speak with some high-profile guests. (Power of the Press prevails) I was very lucky to get a few minutes with the most prolific Green Lantern artist and good guy: Mr. Ethan Van Sciver.

Graphic Policy: Well it’s very nice to meet you, I appreciate it and I just had a few questions for you that I’m sure would interest your fans.

Ethan Van Sciver: Sure, go ahead.

Graphic Policy: Have you ever been asked to do a commission piece that you’ve flat out refused and if so why?

Ethan Van Sciver: Well, I’m sure that I have, but not because it was dirty or anything. It would have been because I just didn’t want to draw it. People will ask me and come by to draw Star Trek things and that’s not something I really want to do. So I will go, well you know. No thank you.

Graphic Policy: So do you basically try to stick within the vein of comic book books. DC and Marvel characters, because I know you do a lot of cool original pieces like Luke Skywalker Lantern and so forth..

Ethan Van Sciver: I will do Star Wars every now and then, but I prefer to stick to just superheroes. I love drawing superheroes.

Graphic Policy: Absolutely you are fantastic at it.

Ethan Van Sciver: Thank you.

Graphic Policy: Do you have a favorite run?

Ethan Van Sciver: Of somebody elses? Or my own?

Graphic Policy: Yours.

Ethan Van Sciver: Of my own, yeah I really liked everything from Green Lantern Rebirth to Sinestro Corps. I thought that was a really good moment.

Graphic Policy: I think that was your best run ever. I have a personal favorite issue. Green Lantern: Rebirth #6.

Ethan Van Sciver: That issue was really a lot of fun.

Graphic Policy: I loved when Bruce (Batman) punches Hal back because the series opened with Hal punching Bruce so it was cool to see it come back around in the end *

Ethan Van Sciver: Yeah that was cool.

Graphic Policy: My good buddy, you’re one of his favorite artists of all time.

Ethan Van Sciver: Oh wow.

Graphic Policy: Do you have a favorite comic book character and is it Green Lantern?

Ethan Van Sciver: My favorite comic character is Plastic Man.

Graphic Policy: Really?

Ethan Van Sciver: Yeah I love Plastic Man, I’m still waiting for a chance to draw him. I know in the past sales have not been particularly good for that character so they are very hesitant to do it again. I would do it as a gangster book and make it a little more irish mafia and little bit more like Black Mass, you know with just a little bit of superhero in it.

Graphic Policy: That would be really cool. Speaking of, you saw that movie Black Mass?

Ethan Van Sciver: Loved it, and that is my Eel O’ Brien story. Is he using his superhero identity to rise himself in the mob, or is he using the mob to make him a better asset to the FBI? So like, who is this guy for real? It was amazing, you know and the Whitey Bulger story was a lot like that. It was very interesting.

Graphic Policy: It was, and well definitely me being from the Boston area, you can’t help but grow up with stories from that.

Ethan Van Sciver: Yeah.

Graphic Policy: So what advice to you have for anyone looking to be a comic book artist today?

Ethan Van Sciver: Yeah, just do it. Don’t let anyone stop you, just start drawing your own comic book and let it happen. Let it be a gradual process. Breaking in, is a misnomer, there’s no such thing as breaking in. You just do it and advance in the industry.

Graphic Policy: Perfect, and what can we expect from you next? What’s your next project.

Ethan Van Sciver: Next project is called Green Lantern: Edge of Oblivion and it’s a six issue mini series with Tom Taylor writing it and me doing all the art. Basically it’s the story that bridges the gap between Lost Army. The Green Lantern Corps are lost in a universe that’s dying, are are trying to get back to our reality. Our universe. So everyone is in it, except for Hal Jordan.

Graphic Policy: Haha. The main Green Lantern.

Ethan Van Sciver: You know that’s cool. I get to draw all the Lanterns. Guy Gardener. Simon Baz and John Stewart..

Graphic Policy: Larfleeze?

Ethan Van Sciver: Well Larfleeze is not a Green Lantern. It would be cool if he was in it though.

Graphic Policy: Yeah I know, it’s just so great when you draw him.

Ethan Van Sciver: Thank you.

Graphic Policy: Well I appreciate your time for the interview and hope you catch your flight.

Ethan Van Sciver: Thank you and sure thing.

*I also want to point out that Ethan was kind enough not to call me out on my mistake saying Batman punches Hal in Green Lantern: Rebirth #6 when really it occurred in Green Lantern #9. (Have to do my nerd diligence)

Interview with Lou Ferrigno: The Incredible Hulk

Posted on November 6, 2015 by Mr. H

In the lead up to Rhode Island Comic Con, which takes place November 6-8, I got a chance to talk to the original Hulk himself, Lou Ferrigno!

Graphic Policy: Thank you for taking time out do this interview Lou. It is greatly appreciated.

Lou Ferrigno: Sure, my pleasure.

Graphic Policy: So I know growing up as a kid in Brooklyn, you had a tough time because of your disability and I think it’s really empowering how you’ve overcome all the adversity that includes. I identify with the Hulk also because I wasn’t the biggest or strongest kid growing up and being picked on. So I’m actually a big fan of the show with you and Bill Bixby, I grew up on it and my dad did too.

Lou Ferrigno: Is that so?

Graphic Policy: Oh yes. I’ve always been intrigued by the Hulk in general because at his core he’s a man who’s very smart and not physically imposing but has this massive power lurking inside him waiting to come out. So what I wanted to do here is ask you a few questions about yourself and the Hulk as well as the comic book genre in general if you don’t mind?

Lou Ferrigno: Yeah, go ahead.

Graphic Policy: Great, so to start off, how did you decide to make the transition from body building and fitness to acting?

Lou Ferrigno: So I was training in the 1977 Mr. Olympia competition in California. So maybe about 6:54 in the morning I received a phone call there was a casting call for the Hulk. They were using this other actor named Richard Kiel, had been cast as the Hulk but he did not fit the role at all, so they had to re shoot the pilot as they had a problem. I went down and shot a screen test, and they wanted to re shoot the pilot quickly so it could be successful, and that’s how quick it happened. Less than 24 hours.

I was looking in the mirror the next day, having been on the set for five or six hours, and I’m looking in the mirror thinking to myself “What am I doing?” I see the Hulk character all finished and I’m like “Wow, I can’t believe I’m doing a movie for television.” It was like a dream come true.

Graphic Policy: I can’t even imagine what it would be like to be in those shoes, so cool. So do you think that because you won the previous body building titles and also the documentary you did called “Pumping Iron” gave you an in, for the Hulk or was it just like you were on equal footing with everybody?

Lou Ferrigno: No, it gave me an in because when “Pumping Iron” came out it gave me a lot of recognition, so I was ahead of a lot of the actors in the physical department.

Graphic Policy: Now speaking of that, to my knowledge you are the only one to ever portray the role of the Hulk physically on-screen. You also do the voice over acting for the character in the current Marvel films.

Lou Ferrigno: Correct.

Graphic Policy: So my question to you is, what is it like preparing for the role and is it just the same or is it more relaxed like you go in your sweatpants and just able to lay back?

Lou Ferrigno: Well it’s still good, but it’s a challenge. When I go in and do the voice over, I can’t read the script. So they tell me with those movies, I have to improvise. They have my voice in a library that they can transfer scene to scene when needed. I definitely wanted to do the voice because, even though it’s shot in CGI, I still know how the Hulk looks and feels. It’s just as much to the character as before.

Graphic Policy: Yeah I mean, it comes out great on film. The voices that emanate from him, are so real for the CGI part. It’s great. You also played a security guard in the Incredible Hulk alongside Edward Norton, that was awesome too.

Lou Ferrigno: Thanks.

Graphic Policy: Now I’ve read that two of your favorite comics growing up were Spider-Man and The Hulk, with The Hulk edging it out. Do you still read any comics today?

Lou Ferrigno: Not like I used to. No, because they changed it with the Red Hulk and the stories are off the trend. If I happen across an older Hulk comic book though, of course I will look through it as it brings back those childhood memories. I like the old comics compared to the newer ones.

Graphic Policy: I do too. They were genius back then.

Lou Ferrigno: Yup.

Graphic Policy: Tell me, do you have a personal favorite episode of The Incredible Hulk TV show?

Lou Ferrigno: Yes. It’s called “King of the Beach”. It was my first real acting role where you get to see me and The Hulk together. It was the highest rated show over its five years. That is my favorite because it was my first acting role.

Graphic Policy: That’s got to be pretty cool.

Just a few more questions here. So as a kid growing up reading comics did you ever think that a character you are now so closely tied to would have, pardon the pun such incredible success?

Lou Ferrigno: I had no idea. There was no way to know that it would have such a uge impact with every country in the world. So because of the success of the television series I’ve had a chance to travel the world. I’ve been to Egypt, South America, and one time I went into a stadium of like 60,000 people and everyone immediately recognized me. Right there I realized there was something there with this character being so beloved, especially being green, it’s really something.

Graphic Policy: To that point if I may say so, I think that it’s your portrayal that sticks in everyone’s minds as the Hulk. Now you can read the comics but it’s that on-screen portrayal that really stays with them. I mean everywhere you go now there’s comics. It’s a great time.

Lou Ferrigno: Well they changed The Hulk’s design because of my physicality. Even 40 years later people still come to comic conventions and even little children who are say 5 or 6 years old, immediately identify me as The Hulk even though they weren’t around for the TV show but it’s such a beloved character.

Graphic Policy: Sure is. Switching gears here, I have a personal question for you. What advice would you give to anyone looking to get into acting or another profession that may have to overcome a disability of their own?

Lou Ferrigno: I believe that as long as you are passionate about something, whether it’s a toothbrush or a doorknob or something, as long you feel good about yourself that will connect to your mind and connect to the body, just realize that you have it. Don’t listen to other people. Pursue it.

Graphic Policy: Ok, to wrap it up You’ve done so much in your career. From fitness and body building to acting in TV and movies, owning your own fitness company even becoming a deputy sheriff..

Lou Ferrigno: 12 years.

Graphic Policy: With that being said, what does the future hold for Lou Ferrigno?

Lou Ferrigno: Well I filmed a great movie in England over the summer called “Instant Death.” It’s about a guy who was in special forces and readjusts back into society. He attempts to repair a relationship with his daughter and granddaughter as he had a British wife. Then this drug gang they go after my daughter and granddaughter so I seek revenge, it’s action, fast paced. Go see it. It’s a lot of fun.

Graphic Policy: I will absolutely see it. Sounds great. This was fantastic and I appreciate your time.

Lou Ferrigno: Thank you. No problem.

Graphic Policy: Have a great day and I will see you at the con.

Review: Klaus #1

Posted on November 3, 2015 by Mr. H

“He’s coming to town”

Anyone every had a burning to know the untold origin of the greatest holiday icon of all time: Santa Claus?

No, you say?

Well you’re getting one anyway. From the normally brilliant and wonderous mind of the Mad Scotsman himself, Grant Morrison.

As a humongous fan of Grant’s I feel absolutely comfortable by telling you that this was in fact.. just ok. It didn’t have all the zaniness and creativity that I’ve come and known to love from Mr. Morrison. His runs on Batman and X-Men are among my favorite in comics ever. He certainly is no stranger to handling literary icons (that’s right, comics are literature in my opinion) but something was just missing here.

Given a subject matter with no wrong answer, the famous scribe goes in a surprisingly pedestrian direction with it. Klaus (our future Santa) appears to be a vagabond traveling from town to town, selling pelts and materials to sell and make money to survive. Now Klaus is a rather hulkish man sporting a large beard and of great physique. Certainly he is no Kris Kringle here.

He arrives in Grimsvig Town (interesting enough name) for a pit stop to keep warm and have a drink. He is not well taken to by the local bar keep and notices that the attitude of this once peaceful town has become, well… grim.

The bar keep tells him it’s best not to ask questions and to keep on moving. Being of peaceful nature, Klaus obliges. On his way out the tavern he sees that all his stockpiled goods have been pilfered by the local authorities. He is upset and asks for payment or returning of the goods but the guards laugh at him. They poke fun of him and ask if he’s a wizard. He replies no.

Deciding it’s not worth the fight, Klaus begins to exit peacefully until he sees a young boy playing with a small stone and one of the guards strikes the child. Klaus will not stand for that!

He engages in battle with all the guards as they taunt him. The odds are to great though as he is forced to flee while injured by an arrow. He leaves a trail of blood and the guards begin pursuit.

The remainder of the issue is a confrontation with the guard brigade in the winter wilderness and the introduction of Lord Magnus, a character who appears to be the ruler of Grimsvig Town (far cry from Christmas Town) , as well as his bratty son Jonas who is never satisfied and obsessed with having good toys. (Hmmm I have an idea where this might be going but I’m hoping Grant goes left with it) Also we are left with a trippy cliffhanger which was the only Morrison-like part of the issue for me.

Overall: Not terrible, but not the fantastic paradigm altering epic I was hoping for. Sure it’s only the first issue, so there is lots of room to ramp this up, but it better hit the pedal fast. On the plus side the art by Dan Mora was great. As I read this all too quick read, I couldn’t help but think how great this could be if done in animation or a grander format. I think it suffers from being constrained to the normal 32 pages as it is not enough time for the master writer to stretch his pen. The cliffhanger was good, so I’m cautiously optimistic. Perhaps it’s the lack of yuletide spirit in me at this moment (it isn’t even Thanksgiving yet) but I can’t help feeling a bit like Jonas here, not yet satisfied and just wanting more.

Story: Grant Morrison Art: Dan Mora
Story: 6 Art: 8.5 Overall: 7 Recommendation: Read

BOOM! Studios provided Graphic Policy with a free copy for review

Beyond the Fourth Wall Episode One: Legends of the Dark Knight, Pt. 1

Posted on November 1, 2015 by Mr. H

On the premiere episode of Beyond the Fourth Wall, Jon and Joe (our own Mr. H) trace the history of Batman as he develops from a gothic figure into a dark knight. This is part one of a two part series on Batman.

Review: Batman and Robin Eternal #4

Posted on October 28, 2015 by Mr. H

“Deadly Dinner”

So this week opens up with action right out the gate. From the moment you turn the first page it’s an all out kitchen melee. Bruce Wayne (with no knowledge of his former life) finds himself surrounded by a variety of deadly cutlery wielding assassins, who want him dead.

Lucky for Bruce, someone has his back. His former (again unbeknownst to Bruce) partner Dick Grayson, knows his way around some knives since he grew up in a circus. (I wonder if knife survival looks good on a resume?) As good as Grayson is though he begins to get outnumbered and the cavalry arrives in the form of some Robins. Make that tons of them. Duke Thomas and his band of street kids from the comic We are Robin, happily join the fray. (Personally that was the coolest part of the issue for me as the Duke Crew know how to make an entrance and it was completely unexpected)

Just when the fight seems about even, in comes Batgirl! She cracks wise while stylishly kicking some bad guy behind as well as endearing herself to her comrades. She even tries to give Duke and the new kids some pointers.(Remember kids, crime fighting etiquette is the utmost importance) Before long the fight is at a close and our heroes mop up, so to speak.

Dick and Barbara do some short catching up, before Barbara being sent off to keep a close eye on Bruce for his safety. It’s noted here that something occurred that caused friction between them. (the editor’s note says see Batgirl #45, I haven’t so I will plead ignorance at this point)

The remainder of the issue consists of Dick having a heated phone discussion with Tim Drake (Red Robin) who is manning the Batcave and providing all the intel. It’s funny to me that with Barbara fully healed and back in her Bat gear, Tim has taken on a very Oracle-like role in the Bat books as of late. I don’t mind it and it’s certainly a natural role for Tim with his tech savvy. I still wish it were Barbara as Oracle truth be told, but I guess I’m just being stubborn. Dick (in disguise) also goes to visit Bruce to alert him of the dangers that lie ahead as well as making him aware that he has his back. One thing I will say, is that I am very much enjoying the Bat-Team with Bruce out of the equation. It lets us see what the kids are made of, and allows for some interesting story possibilities. I am hoping this starts to move at a more break neck pace soon, as each week is starting to feel like filler.

Overall: So not a great entry, but not a terrible one either. It had it’s moments. Certainly the kitchen surprise with all the Robins was very entertaining, but the rest of the issue even including what should have been a shocking cliffhanger, just didn’t pack the emotional punch I think it meant to. (Now that cliffhanger bomb, from issue #1, there’s a different story!) I know plots on a big epic like this take time to build but c’mon creative team, try a little harder please. The savior of the week though was penciller Scot Eaton. His art was energetic and the man knows his way about drawing a kitchen. All in all each week the artists are really holding their own in trying to make each chapter as exciting as possible. I just hope the writers get the memo, and start doing the same. If you need me I will be cautiously optimistic waiting on the rooftop, using the Batsignal to make menacing shadow puppets. Till next time, Gotham…

Story: James Tynion IV and Scott Snyder Art: Scot Eaton
Story: 6 Art: 7.5 Overall: 6.5 Recommend: Read

Review: Batman and Robin Eternal #3

Posted on October 22, 2015 by Mr. H

“While the Bat’s away”

So we enter into week three of the half-year epic Batman & Robin Eternal, and while I appreciate that it must be quite a daunting task for any creative team to sustain interest and high level of creativity, it’s important to me as a reader that they don’t simply phone it in.

Each issue should be constructed almost like an episode of a season of a tv show with individual events but a long reaching overall story arc. While the first week was a big splash right out the gate and last weeks was lackluster, this one was somewhere right in the middle.

The theme that all of Batman’s former young proteges are being targeted from a secret menace from his past is very intriguing. The new villain “Mother” could have lots of promise if handled properly. I have been thoroughly impressed with the “Bat books” since the rebirth of the New 52 a few years ago. So many concepts were revamped and updated with great achievement. Sure it’s a bit wacky that we are to believe in the new condensed continuity that Batman has had four Robins (Dick, Jason, Tim and Damian) in just 5 years (Talk about not longstanding job security) but hey that’s comics.

So on to the issue. The skinny here, is that Mother has a list, and all the Robins and former teenage sidekicks and even one current one (Harper Row) are on it. It’s not a good list, like the Dean’s list. This is bad news indeed.

Last issue we were treated to a yawn of a slugfest with a new villain named The Orphan, kicking our heroes collective butts, with no real explanation. This week we open up with the resident hothead of the Robin’s: Jason Todd, now known as Red Hood about to execute the ninja newbie Cassandra Cain. To Jason’s surprise she is more than ready for him. As Jason gets the upper hand though, big brother Robin, Dick Grayson aka Nightwing aka Agent 37 (Seriously Dick, pick one) steps in with words of peace to calm this kill fest down.

Red Robin (These guys sure love colors in their names) suggests if they are going to try to solve a mystery like the old days, there’s only one place to go: The Batcave. When they arrive in an effort of complete transparency (guess we are not in Congress) Dick plays Bruce’s secret message for his team. Team Robin tries to make heads or tails of it but with no real results. All they know is that “Mother” is some kind of teen agent human trafficker with deadly intentions and very vast resources.

Like the TV show Arrow, This story makes common use of flashbacks to give us crumbs to follow to piece the mystery together. (At this point though, you can yank my junior detective badge because I got squat)

What we are shown in the flashback is more details of a case that Bruce and Dick worked on very early in their crime fighting careers as Batman and Robin. This one particular tidbit comes from the Dynamic Duo’s legendary first tussle with Dr. Jonathan Crane aka The Scarecrow. Robin (Dick) has been exposed to The Scarecrow’s “fear toxin” and nothing is seeming to shake the effects. In an effort to restore his partner to sanity, Bruce removes his Batman cowl and ask Dick what he’s seeing. In short Dick explained to him that the toxin makes him see his greatest fears and his fear of being a failure to Batman. Basically a failure that could resonate in any loving father-son relationship.

Just as Robin pours his heart out, Batman slips the cowl back on and heads out on the case.(wow a bit harsh in my view, but he is Batman after all)

Here’s where it gets dicey. Batman was exposed to the fear toxin, the same as Robin, however he tells him that he was not effected at all. Hmm, I’m sure this will come into play later but for now I’m stumped. Perhaps at this stage in The Scarecrow’s career the “toxin” only effects adolescents? I’m not quite sure but they put bait on the hook because the writers got me here.

As for the rest of the issue we are treated a look at the non Bat- Bruce Wayne and left with yet another cliffhanger. I really wish the creative team would get us back the the great cliffhanger bomb they dropped on us back in issue one but I guess a modicum of patience is required.

Overall: As I pointed out this is a weekly story and takes time to build. However a weekly saga needn’t be a “weak” saga. I like the flashback scenes so far and that issue one cliffhanger was killer. I’m just not properly feeling it yet. At least the writers have another 23 weeks to turn me around. On the plus side, the art by Paul Pelletier and Scot Eaton was very polished and dynamic. I feel they have a terrific handle on the look of these characters without making them look juvenile. I particularly love the revamped design of Dick Grayson’s Robin costume for this era. It invokes a lot of the original Tim Drake costume design from the early 1990’s (One of my personal favorites) and there is nothing wrong with that. While I’m not floored yet at this juncture, like a loyal fan I will see how this plays out. So for the foreseeable future you can catch my weekly review here. Press the tights and check the utility belts, till next week same Bat .. err bird time, same bird channel!

Story: James Tynion IV, Tim Seeley, and Scott Snyder Art: Paul Pelletier, Scott Eaton
Story: 6 Art: 8 Overall 6.5 Recommendation: Read

Review: The Walking Dead #147

Posted on October 17, 2015 by Mr. H

“The sins of the father’s son”

We open up this issue of the most epic zombie apocalypse of all time with.. a conversation. That’s right, Rick and Lo.. err Andrea, and Eugene are having a deadly serious conversation. Eugene is suggesting to Rick that they use Rick’s son Carl’s girlfriend Lydia in a set up for a retribution murder. (If that’s a thing) Having being previously grief-stricken, Eugene is pleading his case to Rick. Unfortunately its falling on deaf ears. Rick doesn’t think it’s the way to go. Even though he can see Eugene’s point, he wants to use compassion for this situation.

Eugene gets wildly pissed and stands up fast in front of Rick and Andrea tells him to please leave. Rick is left to sit there with his love and she comes up with a plan. Andrea feels that Lydia is not safe in this house anymore and by extension neither is Carl. She suggests that Rick let her take both Carl and Lydia away until tempers cool over. Rick after mulling it over, reluctantly agrees.

Andrea goes in to wake up Carl and tell him the news. He asks her “Mom what’s going on?” (I’ll never get used to him calling Andrea mom) She informs him of the plan thusly and he agrees to follow. Shortly after we see an outside shot of the Grimes home and it’s Michonne with her cloak donned heading stealthily into the house and heading up the stairs. She gets to the top of the stairs, hand on her trusty katana and a gun is suddenly cocked at the back of her head. She turns around to see it’s Rick and she draws her blade. Just right about now things are about to pop, and we get… drumrolllllll.. another conversation! (Facepalm.. seriously.)

The rest of the issue pertains to a deep conversation between Rick and Michonne and then Andrea leading the kids on a long walk. Lots of talking and walking people. That’s what we are treated to here. I suppose every book needs filler sometime and there was an abundance of it here. Oh we also get what is supposed to be a shocking cliffhanger, but it just falls meh.

Overall: So this book was like reading a Brian Michael Bendis comic that contained a forward written by Woody Allen, so I wasn’t overly enthralled this month. The good point is the art by Charlie Adlard was near perfect. I hope he never leaves this book. His style is absolutely perfect for it. The black and white format is also one of my favorite parts of the book as it allows the reader to pay attention more to it’s contents. On the plus side, this does make me appreciate any episode of Fear the Walking Dead TV show more. Hopefully next month we will back to our regularly scheduled masochism, but we have Halloween and nightmares for that. See you on the hill next month deadheads…

Story: Robert Kirkman Art: Charlie Adlard
Story: 5.5 Art: 8 Overall: 6 Recommendation: Pass

Image Comics provided Graphic Policy with a FREE copy for review

Interview with the Tattooed Man

Posted on October 8, 2015 by Mr. H

Hello there True Readers! Not everyday do you get a chance to speak to someone who quite literally gives of themselves completely for their passion. Luckily today I was fortunate enough to get this kind of opportunity. This man Jon Costanza of Arlington, MA is the type of individual of whom I speak. I am also very fortunate enough to call him my good friend. What follows is a variety of questions I asked him that I found very intriguing. I hope that you who read this will enjoy this look into a very special Comic Book fan as well…

Graphic Policy: How long have you collected or been into comics?

Jon Costanza: Off and on for approximately 15 years. My first comic book that I ever held in my hands was Ghost Rider. I was in the 4th grade. I remember the image of him and his flaming skull riding a horse seemed to pop off the cover page. I had no idea who or what he was. He certainly didn’t look like a hero that’s for sure, but all I knew was that the art was awesome. Even though I knew and loved Superman, Batman, Wonder Woman, and Spider-Man; I wasn’t aware of comic books as a medium. I only knew of superheros via movies, tv, and toys. So thank you to Ghost Rider for getting me into comic books.

GP: Who is your all time favorite character and why?

JC: Superman. He embodies hope, strength, and always doing the right thing no matter what. He is the ultimate superhero. When all seems lost to the people in peril, Superman has always been a beacon of hope. Also, his powers are fucking awesome. No one is more powerful. His origin story is a timeless classic but adds in sci-fi, which I love.

GP: What gave you the inspiration for your tattoos?

Superman: See above, but here are some additional comments. When I got to the point when I knew for a fact that I wanted a tattoo, the first thought that came to my mind about what I wanted to get was “What have I been interested in the longest? What has been an important part of my life for the longest?” Then around that time, my mom showed me a picture of me from when I was probably 2 years old wearing my Superman pajama shirt with the cape attached running around with my arms out in front of me pretending like I was flying. Well, that made the decision extremely easy for me.

Batman: To me, the Bat is all about discipline, always being prepared, intelligence, and standing up and saying “something horrible happened to me and I’m going to make sure it doesn’t happen to anyone ever again.”

Green Lantern: WILLPOWER! What else?! Lol. The ability that everyone has (even though they don’t know how to use it) to tap into something within them to withstand the seemingly impossible and never give up.

Clutch horse: It’s from the booklet from the Clutch album “From Beale St. to Oblivion”. The lyrics within the horse silhouette are from the song You Can’t Stop Progress and they are “Bona fide man of action.” And that’s what I am. Actions speak louder than words.

Clutch pig: It’s from the same booklet from the same Clutch album. The lyrics within the pig silhouette are from my favorite Clutch song One Eye Dollar and they are “1600, all the way. That’s right brother, all the way!!! 1600, today’s our day.” These lyrics are referring to 1600 Pennsylvania Ave (The White House), and the song is all about that secret society and Illuminati stuff. There was a time when I was super into the conspiracy theory scene. I’m not anymore but this connects to that. However, the real reason why I got this tattoo is because I love the image and the song.

GP: When did you get your first one?

JC: I got the Superman tattoo when I was 27-28.

GP: Which tattoo is your favorite?

JC: Hands down, Green Lantern. The image pops out of my arm. And I love that its very original. The image is from Wanted: Hal Jordan by Ivan Reis, but I had my artist tweak a few things, like adding the GL symbols flying around him.

GP: Do you go to different tattoo artists for each?

JC: No, I found my artist for life. Deidre Doyle is a very talented tattoo artist. I got the Superman and Batman tattoos when she worked at Pino Bros. Ink on Cambridge St. in Cambridge, MA. I got the Clutch and Green Lantern tattoos when she worked at Chameleon Tattoo in Harvard Square in Cambridge. She now works at Redemption Tattoo on Mass Ave in Cambridge, which is where I will go for my next one.

GP: How long do they take?

JC: It all depends. Supes and Bats took a few sessions, which probably equaled to about a month and a half or so. GL took the longest with 5-6 sessions. The Clutch tattoos were very quick and easy with one session.

GP: Do you have plans for any more?

JC: Yup! My next one will be The Flash. Most likely an image from The Dastardly Death of the Rogues or Road to Flashpoint by Francis Manapul. Other ideas for the future: Star Wars space battle scene, Aquaman, The Joker, Darkseid. And there are many others.

I want to take the time to thank Jon for answering all my questions. He has a great outlook and is just a down to Earth dude. Anyone who’d like to get to know him better don’t hesitate to follow his adventures on Twitter @thejonny_c. Thank you for reading and see you passing by in the Cosmos!

Interviews

Review: Grayson #12

Posted on September 26, 2015 by Mr. H

“Back to the Nest”

First off I will say that I have been saying the praises of this series for quite a while now, and I must say now I want to start singing them. Every time I think the bar has been raised, the creative team seems to trapeze with ease right over it.

For the past 11 issues Dick Grayson has been taken out of Gotham and thrust into the world of SPYRAL and international intrigue. It has been a wild ride thus far and even with Dick being in a new element it’s been him at his most “Grayson” in a long time. Well this issue might just be him at his most “Graysonest” (Not a word I know, but it darn should be) ever. Whether it’s as Dick Grayson, Nightwing, or Agent 37, this team just gets it. So when I read that this would be the issue that he makes his grand return to Gotham, I got so excited. I had my reservations but my faith in this series far outweighed my worries. I was right. This was brilliant.

Those who are regular readers are usually treated to high-octane action, secret agent double crosses, dangerous romantic exploits and quips and jokes by the boatload. Well this month we take a slight hiatus from that format. This is a simple story at its core. Just a story about a man who has been estranged from his family for a long time, and he finds his way home.

First things first, the former first Robin needs to see: The Bat. To his chagrin, Bruce Wayne is and no longer remembers being Batman. Ever.

Alfred, has made it clear to Dick, that during Bruce’s final battle with the Joker, (Back in Batman #35-40 by Bat Lords Scott Snyder and Greg Capullo) Batman finally died but Bruce Wayne survived. Dick needing to see this for himself, decides to dress in disguise to go see a Bruce Wayne who doesn’t remember him anyway.

What makes this scene work so well is that the page is adorned in many thought bubbles. To the not so keen eye, they appear to be random thoughts. To the eyes of an honorary detective however you discover that every single solitary one of them has been seen in print in the pages of a Batman or DC Comic before. I thought this was a fantastic touch, almost a literary semblance of seeing ones life flash before their eyes but with thoughts. They are all excerpts from former conversations between the original Batman and Robin: Bruce Wayne and Dick Grayson. The writers managed to take the very long history between the two and condense it down into just quotes on one page. A great device that brings the reader up to speed without having the overuse of long-winded narration to get the point across. Before Dick leaves he asks Bruce just one last question. “Are you happy?” Bruce isn’t able to give him a clear-cut answer since he has no memory of his past and isn’t quite sure what to feel. Dick realizes that it may not be the same Bruce Wayne standing in front of him at that moment. One thing is crystal clear though. Batman is not home anymore.

Next stop up, we find Dick getting punked out on a rooftop between his former “Robin boy wonders in arms” Jason Todd and Tim Drake. Like Bruce, Dick has a storied past with both these individuals. They all at one time were the successor to the mantle of Robin in some form and the teen sidekicks of the Dark Knight. Dick tries to explain his side of the story to the both of them but it falls on deaf ears. (Faking your own death to your best friends, has a way of getting to the toughest of us) He goes on and on trying to explain the reason, that it was the greater good and the greatest burden he had to bear to keep them safe. They simply say to him that he shouldn’t have lied to them because above all else, they aren’t just siblings of the Bat, they are brothers. Then and there, Dick understands they are right. Before he leaves he says a small speech to each and presents them with two Batarangs. He tells them Bruce would want them to have it. Like the previous scene with Bruce, this was done very well. First we had Jason slug Dick right in the face and Tim try to break it up. Simple touches like that gives the effect these characters all have a deep relationship and maintains that they are a family. Simply put, all families fight. Especially brothers.

A short time later we find ourselves atop a bridge in the midst of a reunion conversation between Dick and Batgirl herself: Barbara Gordon. This was the one conversation Dick dreaded the most. It’s not just a former caped crusader or sibling or friend, this is the love of his life. The love of his life that he has lied and deceived and no excuse on Earth is good enough for her. So he doesn’t try. He just mans up and lets her know how much he’s missed her and he’s sorry. Unfortunately like in real life, sometime saying your sorry isn’t good enough. Nor should it be. I really liked this approach, another tip of my hat to the writers here, showing they understand that Dick Grayson is a humanized superhero. He is not above reproach or tries to be holier than thou. It’s one of the reasons Dick Grayson is at the top of my list of all time favorite fictional, not just comic book characters. He has a purity in his fallible nature that is refreshing. He may make mistakes, but he always tries to make up from them and more importantly learn from them. Barbara doesn’t have to accept his apology but she at least hears him out. She then leaps off the bridge (that’s a better exit that over dramatically slamming a door any day got to give the girl style points there) and in true chivalrous fashion Dick follows suit. (flying off bridges is nothing for a child of the circus and Batman’s side kick, helloooo)

Once Dick catches up to Babs (as he always called her) and says he just wants to give her something. He hands her the trapeze bar from their first date at the circus when Barbara was still rehabilitating after her torture at the hands of the Joker. Being a human being, this strikes a nerve with Barbara and then hears him out. It isn’t the love fest one would expect but it is heartwarming nonetheless. Barbara then figures out that the deliberate speech pattern and words Dick used and pulls a clue from it. (I won’t spoil, but it is a very clever concept that is repeated through the issue) Before she can get confirmation, Dick is long gone.

Finally we make our last stop. Dick arrives to see Damien Wayne, son of Batman and Dick’s former Robin. (Dick as Batman in Grant Morrison’s run on Batman and Robin is one of the all time best stories in my opinion) This scene was my favorite in the book. It was brief but, near perfect. Damien rushes and somersaults his way with joy right over to Dick as soon as he learns he’s alive. No cold shoulder just a warm embrace for his back from the dead brother. A long hug and a couple of wisecracks exchanged between them and that was all that was needed. Such a great touching moment.

Overall: Like I said before the bar keeps being surpassed each and every single month and it is a true joy as a reader to pick up a book that you don’t want to put down. Those who were looking for fast paced espionage might have been a little disappointed this month but not me. I couldn’t have been more pleased. This was just a good story about a uniquely estranged family which was raw and had a lot of heart. I’ve enjoyed this book a little more every single issue and with Dick back amongst the Bat-Family, it’s only going to get better. Ladies and gentleman the band is back together and this might just be their best performance yet. Keep the lights on in the cave and see you all here in 30 days.

Story: Tim Seely and Tom King Art: Mikel Janin
Story: 9.9 Art: 9.3 Overall: 9.9 Recommendation: Buy

Review: Captain America: White # 1

Posted on September 17, 2015 by Mr. H

“Remembering the littlest soldier”

To say this comic book is long-awaited is an understatement like saying that Dr. Dre’s Detox album is right on schedule. (I too awaited that album, back when I loved the rap genre) The wonder team of Jeph Loeb and Tim Sale are no strangers to each other. In fact the pair has created instant classics almost every time they collaborate. They gave us Batman: The Long Halloween, Daredevil: Yellow, Spider-Man: Blue, Hulk: Gray and now Captain America: White.

When you have such a long wait for something it often falls completely flat. Usually it crumbles under the weight of its own expectation. The risk of over doing it and trying to please everyone is usually a harsh mistress. I’m happy to report here True Readers, that doesn’t happen at all.

The story opens with a thawed out Captain America on the Avengers table, thinking to himself how could he be alive? I have to say I am a very big fan of first person narration as it gives the best insight into a character and their motivation, while taking you along sidecar on their journey. Captain Steve Rogers (aka Captain America) has found himself awake in a new era and everything about his life has changed. Now this is nothing new to long time Cap fans, but Jeph Loeb really makes you feel for Steve here. Steve realizes that everyone and everything he cared for is long gone. The only tie to his past is Sgt. Nick Fury of the Howling Commandos and wasn’t the best relationship to begin with. Steve is not used to Fury’s respect and admiration as back in the times of WW II that was surely not the case. So faced with all these new faces and new surroundings, Steve does what anyone would do. He takes a break.

Fury goes looking for Steve a little later and is taken back to find him at a small local church on his knees with hands clasped tight. Steve not wanting to talk right away, shoos Fury so he can be alone. Here is the best part of the issue when we are left with a humbled Captain America and his thoughts.

Steve reminisces about his early days in the war when he was not publicly acknowledged as Captain America. He thinks about his biggest regret, the loss of his best friend James Buchanan Barnes or Bucky. Steve remembers exactly what it was like to be such an outsider and Bucky was right there. The kid was barely old enough to shave but willing to risk his life at the drop of a hat for the good of his country. He was everything Steve wasn’t: confident, brave, sociable and always armed with a sense of humor. Steve kept him close always and was very protective of him. He soon realized that he didn’t need any protection. He needed training.

One night when Steve was back from a mission he got careless, and left his tent open while he changed out of his Captain America uniform. The jig was up. Bucky saw the whole thing, and no way to deny it. As Bucky ran away in shock, he chased after him. Bucky swore up and down that he wouldn’t say a word to anyone. Steve believed him and said he was never worried. At that point Steve decided to give Bucky the training that America wouldn’t.

Seeing Bucky as an equal rather than a grunt, their bond was strong. I found a scene when they are training in the woods very enjoyable. Steve sneakily attacks Bucky and leaves him at his mercy. Bucky cries foul and Steve says “Tell that to the nazi creep who has a luger pointed at your head.”

Bucky understands and the training continues until the day comes where he gives him his own uniform. Steve says that the order came from the President of The United States of America himself. Seems the President feels with Captain America having a teen sidekick it will help the army recruit more kids out of high school. He dons the uniform and the legend of Captain America and Bucky was born.

Right here I will leave you to pick up and read the rest of the issue itself as it was a very entertaining read. I have always been a fan of Tim Sales art style as it is so kinetic and seems to leap and dance across the page. While I don’t like everything Jeph Loeb writes, he does these bio pieces of comic greats very well. He seems to have a knack to find the most interesting angle on each character and bring it right to the forefront. This time with Steve is no different. Like Cap and Bucky are scoffed at in the issues as “circus performers”, so too I compare Loeb and Sale. This issue is like opening night under the Big Top. The lights are on, the audience is just getting settled in and the show is about to begin. Trust me they will only need a few moments to real make some magic.

Overall: While it may have not exactly been worth the seven-year wait we had to endure, nothing rarely is. If you separate it and take it for what is, a comic tale that encapsulates a historic moment in time while throwing some artistic sizzle and pizzazz, I think it succeeds. Is it the best thing I’ve read this year? No, but it doesn’t have to be. It was however damn good and lots of fun. Sometimes that’s all you need. It should be noted that this book actually contained both issue #1 and #0. So in that right it’s a bargain with two tales from this team for the price of one. There is a hilarious moment with Sgt Fury at the beginning, which I won’t spoil here. Sure this issue didn’t have Cap slinging his shield at the Red Skull or Baron Zemo, there will be plenty of time for that later. If you enjoy the bond between two buddies who happen to be American Icons, then I strongly suggest you check this book out. Even if you don’t I suggest you do anyway, you might change your mind. I can’t say until next month, because who knows if it will be out on time? All I can say is when the next installment does arrive, give it a grab. I’m confident that unlike Cap’s mighty shield, you will not be throwing it away from your person until its completely been read.

Story: Jeph Loeb Art: Tim Sale
Story: 9 Art: 9 Overall: 9 Recommendation: Definite Buy

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