DC's Bob Wayne at the ComicsPRO Annual Members Meeting in 2012, with the ComicsPRO Industry Appreciation Award. Photo by Annette Price, for The Oklahoman

DALLAS — Bob Wayne, DC Entertainment’s Senior Vice President of Sales, was honored with the ComicsPRO Industry Appreciation Award in an afternoon ceremony.

The crowd of retailers, publishers and industry figures stood for an extended standing ovation as Wayne was named the recipient of the award, which is intended to honor those who help bring comic books to market.

“I would venture to say that no one in this room knows more about comics or the comics industry than Bob Wayne,” said ComicsPRO president Joe Field in his introduction of Wayne.   Given that executives from most of the larger comics publishers and more than 100 comic retail operations were in the room, that’s a nice compliment.

“With his 25 years at DC Comics, now DC Entertainment, we’ve seen tremendous things happen, in large part because of what Bob Wayne’s been instrumental in making happen for us,” Field said.

The other nominees for the award were Cindy Fournier of Diamond; David Gabriel of Marvel; Robert Kirkman of Image and Eric Stephenson of Image.

The 2012 ComicsPRO Industry Appreciation Memorial Award was awarded to the late Phil Seuling, who founded the direct-market method of comic-book sales.  Bill Schanes of Diamond Comics Distributors, a former customer of Seuling, accepted the award on his behalf.  Julius Schwartz of DC Comics was the other nominee in this category.

Wayne was classy, funny and at times emotional in his acceptance of the award, which is voted on by the comic book retailers who are members of ComicsPRO, the national comics retail organization.

“I’d like to thank all of the members of ComicsPRO for your continued support,” Wayne said in accepting the award. “Many of you are friends, and, I think, extended family.”

Wayne graciously thanked his bosses and co-workers through his years at DC.

He recounted his years in the industry, including starting to sell comics in 1973 at comic-book conventions.

“Yes, I know that was before some of you were born,” he said. “There’s no need to come up later and point that out to me.”

Wayne opened a comic-book store in 1980, which he ran for seven years.   He joined DC Comics in August of 1987.

“The people who placed bets 25 years ago as to how many weeks or months I’d last in corporate America … no one asked me for odds.”

In closing, Wayne gave recognition to a special family member.

“When you work in a comic shop, when you work in comics, you hear a lot of people say, ‘Oh, they still make comics?  My mother threw mine out.’  And my mother did not throw mine out.”

- Matt Price

Kyle Roberts talks to Matt Price from the ComicsPRO meeting in Dallas. Expected topics of discussion include the Image Comics resurgence, including “Thief of Thieves”; the new Smallville comic book series; and the Marvel Comics Avengers vs. X-Men comics.

DALLAS — How will the rest of the comics market strike back?

That was one of the questions being asked around tables and in small groups at an informal meet-and-greet prior to the kickoff of the ComicsPRO Annual Members Meeting.

Since last year’s ComicsPRO meeting, DC Comics has shaken up the sales charts with its Sept. 2011 relaunch.  In January, 5 months into the relaunch, DC Comics claimed all 10 of the top 10 comics in Diamond Comic Distributors monthly sales charts.

Because the comics market is often reactive, some retailers at the meeting openly wondered how DC’s competition might react to DC’s 2011 moves.

In early 2012, one company already seems to be shaking things up: Image Comics.  Retailers reported very strong sales for the Image title “Fatale” and also for “Thief of Thieves,” released in comic shops today.

“Thief of Thieves” is co-written by Robert Kirkman and Nick Spencer.   Kirkman is the co-creator of “The Walking Dead” comic-book series, which has had great success adapted for television on AMC.  Some have suggested there’s a “Walking Dead” spillover effect that’s helping the entire Image line, especially those properties tied to Kirkman.

There was also talk about Marvel’s upcoming “Avengers vs. X-Men” promotion, and the promotional idea allowing stores to sign up as supporting the Avengers or the X-Men.

At last year’s preview night, stores said some of the major problems facing the market were generating excitement, late-shipping books, and the still-lagging economy.  This year, many of those problems have been addressed.  While the economy overall is still recovering, DC’s relaunch helped generate excitement and prove that a major publisher could stick to a largely on-time schedule.    Retailers remain interested in DC’s upcoming plans, including those about DC Comics’ just-announced “Before Watchmen” program. Many retailers are curious about how the series will be marketed in comic-book stores.

Thursday at the meeting will be a day of programming from DC Comics; other sponsors will share their programming on Friday and Saturday, in addition to retail-focused discussion and programming.   The Comic Book Legal Defense Fund will hold the First Annual Retailer Auction, at the ComicsPRO Annual Meeting at 9 p.m. Friday.

With even more stores expected to attend the meeting than last year, it’s up to the gathered sponsors to get these decision-makers on board with their upcoming projects.  With many stores feeling on firmer footing than in 2011, they’re actively looking for the new product or title that will get more people in the door and their money in the register.

- Matt Price

This seemed like a good year for Super Bowl commercials — there weren’t nearly as many that I actively hated, and there were quite a few that I liked. When the biggest complaints seem to come from childhood icons selling out (Ferris Bueller, Voltron), well, to me that’s a big improvement over some of the past years’ rampant misogynist tendencies.

GoDaddy of course still went with titillating and lowbrow; eTrade still has the horrific talking babies; but besides that I wasn’t too disgusted by anything.

Here are my top 10 commercials for Super Bowl 46 in 2012.

1. Clint Eastwood

Clint Eastwood tells everybody how to come back and pull together. Loved it! Great placement at halftime, as well, tying in with the commercial’s theme. Well-done all around.

2. Avengers movie spot

“I still believe in heroes.” How cool was this? I’m already predisposed to like this movie, but I thought the commercial was a home run.

3. The Dog Strikes Back

You can argue it’s trying too hard, you can argue it’s selling out a childhood icon. And while I didn’t like it better than Vader Kid, I did laugh.

4. Kia “A Dream Car for Real Life.”

An overdose of the Sandman’s dust has a man’s dreams going over the top. Maybe the funniest commercial this year.

5. Audi vampires

Clever twist on the Twilight frenzy!

6. Chevy Apocalypse

Good way to play into the Mayan 2012 apocalypse zeitgeist with a car commercial, I thought. Ford apparently was upset about this ad; the whole thing seems so fantastical that it’s an odd choice to me of something to get worked up over.

7. Matthew’s Day Off

I’m ranking this here for memorability, even though I have mixed feelings about both the idea and execution. And no Alan Ruck? Matthew Broderick can still pull off a Ferris-like charm, though, can’t he?

8. Hyundai – Cheetah

Gets across the idea of the car being fast, and gets a little violent humor in, generally a plus for Super Bowl commercials

9. Seinfeld Acura “Transactions”

Jerry Seinfeld really wants the first Acura NSX.

10. MetLife, Everyone

I get that He-Man probably doesn’t need insurance, nor does Voltron, and I get all the sellout arguments that can and maybe should be made. But He-Man’s in a Super Bowl commercial!

Which commercials did you like most and least?

- Matt Price

Peter Parker’s been assigned to take photos of the local Polar Bear club on Christmas Eve, as they plan a quick swim in the frigid temperatures.  But they’re interrupted by a disturbance in the sand — the Sandman is back!  Peter changes to Spidey to track the villain down, but Sandman slips through his grasp.

Spidey still hopes to make his date, so he swings by to warn the Fantastic Four that the Sandman is back.  But the only hero on hand is the somewhat Scroogelike Johnny Storm, who isn’t feeling in the Christmas spirit.

Still, Spidey joins Johnny, dressed in some swingin’ ’70s threads, to search for the Sandman.  The pair stop to help make some citizens’ Christmases more merry along the way, by averting a traffic accident and stopping an attempted robbery.

They eventually catch up with the Sandman, and there’s a Christmas twist of sorts to the tale’s final third. Johnny eventually comes around on the season, as well.

Roy Thomas and Ross Andru are the creative team for a charming first issue.  The series, featuring Spider-Man teaming with various Marvel superheroes, ran through issue No. 150 in 1985.  Trivia note: The woman who Johnny and Spider-Man save from a mugging was later revealed to be Misty Knight, later girlfriend to Iron Fist and a private detective in the Marvel Universe.

- Matt Price
Comics read in 2011: 1981. Still to go: 30

Fabio Moon and Gabriel Ba create the story of the life of Bras de Olivias Dominguez, in the graphic novel “Daytripper,” originally released as 10 individual issues.  Each issue follows a day in the life of Bras, with each ending the same — he dies.    The following story picks up at a different point in Bras’ life, unconnected to his previous death.  Bras is the son of a famous author, a “miracle child” struggling to find his place and his way, as told through each separate vignette.   The beauty of Brazil and the fragility of life play key roles in this highly recommended graphic novel.  It’s beautiful, challenging and at times heartbreaking.

Also read recently:

Fathom vol. 2: Beginnings, Prelude, 0-11
Admiral Maylander attacks an underwater city of the Blue.  Political intrigue and action are heavy in this volume, as marine biologist Aspen Matthews finds out  more about her true identity.  Written by J.T. Krul.

Fathom Vol. 3, 0-10
The deep-sea-living the Black declare war upon the humans as the Blue must determine if they will be humanity’s enemy or ally.   Killian joins with Siphon to negotiate with the humans, though Kiani wants to part of a peaceful settlement.  Aspen again finds herself torn among worlds she has a history with as she attempts to prevent full-scale destruction, and save her long-lost brother.  Written by J.T. Krul.

Who is Jake Ellis? The collection of this 5-issue miniseries features former spy Jon Moore, now a mercenary.  He’s able to escape capture in part because of the voice in his head — the voice of Jake Ellis.  But who is Jake Ellis?   He’s a man that only Jon can see, providing information on safe escapes and possible threats.  The mystery of Ellis, and Jon’s quest to discover the secrets behind it, are what writer Nathan Edmondson and artist Tonci Zonjic have laid out in this fast-paced espionage thriller from Image Comics.

GI Joe Operation HISS #1: Set in the continuity of the G.I. Joe live-action movie, this issue sees Snake Eyes and Scarlett raid a M.A.R.S. facility in China, where they cross paths with Storm Shadow.  The art is by Alex Cal and Agustin Padilla; the book is written by Brian Reed.   Decent action throughout.

- Matt Price
Comics read in 2011: 1976. Still to go: 35.

Comics recently read in my 2,011 in 2011 comic book challenge include the first volume of Michael Turner’s “Fathom,” which debuted in1998 from Top Cow.

“Fathom” Vol 1, 0-14, 1/2, preview, Against All Odds #1: Marine biologist Aspen Matthews has always been drawn to the sea, but when she is attached to a top-secret undersea mission, she finds out there’s more to her past than she realizes.  She also is among the first to discover there are two “worlds” on earth — the one we know, and the one below.

The discovery of new undersea humanoid races is the thrust of the first “Fathom” volume, and the conflicts between those groups and the land-dwelling humans.   Aspen Matthews is in a unique position to be at the heart of this conflict — while she was raised as human, her biology connects her to these undersea civilizations.  Beautifully drawn by the late Michael Turner, who created and co-wrote the series, the comics create brilliant, stunning underwater vistas.    With the exception of the Aspen digital comic “Against All Odds,” all issues originally published by Top Cow, now published under the auspices of the Turner-founded Aspen Comics.   The definitive edition collection released by Aspen edits out the appearances of Witchblade and Tomb Raider in the original issues 12-14.

Also recently read:

Airboy 1942: Best of Enemies (2009): Chuck Dixon writes the story of ace fighter pilot Airboy and his fantastic plane during World War II.  In this story, Airboy meets the German flying ace Valkyrie.  Published by Moonstone.

“Archie and Friends” 152 (2011): Sabrina casts a spell on Jughead to help him win an eating contest, but her spell backfires when Jughead falls in love with Sabrina instead.

Lone Ranger (Dell) 1-3 (1948) These comic strip reprint stories predate the Clayton Moore Lone Ranger, and feature a red-shirted Lone Ranger dealing with Old West bullies and brigands.

Wonder Comics 1 (1939): The only appearance of Wonder Man (no relation to the later Marvel character) who was sued out of existence over his similarities to Superman.  At first I was surprised, reading the comic — the origin is totally different from Superman.  An old monk gives Fred Carson a ring that allows him to fight evil.  But when you get into the actual super-heroic part of the book, Wonder Man’s powers are very similar to Superman’s, as are many of his poses and actions.  Published by Fox.

Green Hornet #23 (1945): Green Hornet is the lead story in this Golden Age comic, which also features a roster of somewhat unusual back-up heroes and a little too much casual racism for modern audiences to stomach.   Published by Harvey.

Dell Four Color 496 -Green Hornet (1953): The Hornet must track down the true culprit in some train robberies when the main suspect is — the Green Hornet!

Green Lantern No Fear: Geoff Johns re-establishes Hal Jordan’s non-superheroic identity as a pilot, while he must face the Manhunters and Shark as Green Lantern.  Collects Green Lantern 1-6 and Green Lantern Secret Files #1 (Darwyn Cooke story).

Comics read in 2011: 1,935. Still to go: 76.

Created to tie in with the 1966-1967 TV show, these three “Green Hornet” issues feature Britt Reid and his valet Kato, who pretend to be criminals in order to fight crime.  District Attorney Frank Scanlon and secretary “Casey” Case are in on Britt Reid’s secret.  Mike Axford, a police beat reporter working for Reid’s newspaper, is constantly after the Green Hornet, but he falls into humorous mishaps that prevent any true discovery.  Van Williams and Bruce Lee are featured on the covers, with photos from the show also appearing in the interior covers.   The stories are roughly comparable to the TV show of the time, and are relatively enjoyable, if dated stylistically.

Other comics recently read:

Young X-Men #1-9

Marc Guggenheim and Yanick Paquette create this story of a new team of mutants following the”Messiah Complex” storyline.   With no new mutants being born, Rockslide, Blindfold and Dust believe they are part of the last generation of mutants.  Recruited by Cyclops, they are told that the old New Mutants are the new Brotherhood of Evil Mutants, and they must track down and kill the team.   Not my favorite work by either Guggenheim or Paquette, but it has its moments (particularly in one neat Danger Room sequence). Ben Oliver becomes the artist with issue #6, as the origin of the Young X-Man “Ink” is explained.

Captain Confederacy  (1-12, Steeldragon, 1986; 1-4, Epic, 1991)

Science fiction author Will Shetterly worked with artist Vince Stone on “Captain Confederacy,” an alternate-history comic-book series that looked at a propaganda-type superhero in a world where the South won the Civil War and remained a separate nation from the United States.   Shetterly has posted his “director’s cut” of the material at a blog dedicated to Captain Confederacy.  This is interesting, thought-provoking stuff, that has had its share of controversy.  Even years after the series’ end, a parent who bought a remaindered copy at a dollar store was offended by its contents.  The series definitely isn’t meant for kids, but is intended to look at issues of race relations in the context of a superhero adventure/alternate history story.

- Matt Price
Comics read in 2011: 1,881. Still to go: 130.

Archie #30 (1948): If Betty can sew  a patch onto Archie’s pants, she can take him to the dance.  Did people really do things like this in the 1940s?

Betty and Veronica #192 (Dec. 1971) Veronica ditches the gang, who are cleaning up the river in Riverdale, when she has a chance to appear in a fashion shoot.

Star Wars Legacy vol. 2: Shards: This second volume of “Legacy” does a lot to set up the world of the “Star Wars” universe, 125 years after “Return of the Jedi.”  Cade Skywalker, Luke’s grandson, is the series’ main character, though he’s less active in this volume than the first.   Collects issues 8, 4, 9, 10, 13, 11, and 12 of the series, originally published in 2007.

The Unknown 1-4 and The Unknown Devil Made Flesh 1-4: Two supernatural-style mysteries by writer Mark Waid and artist Minck Oosterveer.  Oosterveer sadly died earlier this year.
In “The Unknown,” from Boom! Studios, master detective Catherine Allingham learns she only has months to live.  She chooses to use that remaining time examining seemingly unsolvable mysteries with her ex-bouncer apprentice, James Doyle.

Sanctuary #1: Stephen Coughlin’s digital comic from SLG features a sanctuary for animals with a dark mystery behind it — it reminded me somewhat of “Lost.”

Batman: No Man’s Land Vol. 1: Batman must deal with Gotham City after a terrible earthquake leads to the evacuation of most of the city.  This volume includes Batman: No Man’s Land #1, Batman #563-564, Batman: Shadow of the Bat #83-84, Detective Comics #730-731 and Batman: Legends of the Dark Knight #116.    While the story is in some ways unbelievable, the storytellers do a good job making this altered Gotham and its residents part of a compelling story of Batman and his allies in a new, difficult circumstance.

- Matt Price
Comics read in 2011: 1,847. Still to go: 164.

Astro City: The Dark Age
Kurt Busiek and Brent Anderson look at the 1970s and 1980s through the prism of the superhero world of Astro City, in a 16-part storyline.   Four four-issue miniseries (“Astro City: The Dark Age” Books 1-4) follow Charles and Royal Williams as they seek the man who murdered their parents.   Their lives are intertwined with that of the Silver Agent, who is traveling through time in an attempt to avert a coming disaster.

Busiek and Anderson are taking apart the grittier comics of the 1970s and 1980s and exploring them from the point of view of characters who are living it.  It recreates the feel of reading comics as a younger person in the late 70s and early 1980s, but with a story that works on multiple levels.   Any superhero fan should take a look at The Dark Age, which probably suffered from its extended shipping schedule as far as sales.   But with two collections containing all 16 issues, there’s no reason not to read this modern classic.  Alex Ross remains active with the book as a character designer and cover artist.

Also read recently:

Grifter 2-3 (2011) Nathan Edmondson continues his slow burn in revealing who exactly Cole Cash, aka Grifter, is in this new unified DC Comics universe, but it’s an intriguing read with beautiful art by CAFU.

Planet Terry 1-4 (1985)Lennie Herman and Warren Kremer were the creative team for “Planet Terry” (a pun on “Planetary”), which featured young Terry, sort of a Richie Rich of space, on a quest to find his parents, with the help of his robot, Robota, and a gruff alien, Omnus.

- Matt Price
Comics read in 2011: 1,821  Still to go: 190.

Have a great Thanksgiving!  Whether you are spending the day with family, friends or otherwise, I hope your day is wonderful and that you have time to reflect on things for which to be thankful.

Most people have some thoughts of turkey on Thanksgiving, so to see some more turkey-themed comics, check out this gallery at fanboy.com.

- Matt Price

Getting caught up on several comics read this year that never made it into a full blog post.

Living with the Dead 1-3 (2007, Dark Horse): Sort of “The Walking Dead” by way of a comedic buddy movie with a dash of romantic comedy.  Worth checking out for zombie or “Zombieland” fans.

Incredible Hulk 601 (2009, Marvel): Greg Pak writes as Banner begins trying to train the Hulk’s son, Skaar.

Warlock 1-4 (2004, Marvel): Greg Pak writes a different version of the Adam Warlock character with a focus on philosophy.

Vision Machine 1-3 (2010, Pak Man Productions): Greg Pak and RB Silva provide a meditation on consumerism and technology in a smart, innovative sci-fi story.  You can get the story for free at visionmachine.net.

Amazing Spider-Man #34 (1966, Marvel) Spidey faces Kraven the Hunter in a classic Stan Lee-Steve Ditko story.

Avenging Spider-Man #1 (2011, Marvel) A modern version of Marvel Team Up by Zeb Wells and Joe Madureira. Spidey teams up with the Red Hulk in issue 1.

Archie and Friends Cartoon Life # 1: (2009, Archie) Chuck Clayton teaches a cartooning class.

Scavengers 0: (Triumphant, 1993):  After years protecting the Realm, Captain Ximos discovers a dark secret that leads him to become a renegade.  This was better than what I had expected from the long-defunct publisher.

Secret Avengers 16, 17 (2011, Marvel): Good superhero espionage-type stories from Warren Ellis.

Doctor Who annual 2010. (2010, IDW) The 4-page Tony Lee teaser is the best story of the bunch, but these are OK for fans of the recent David Tennant-starring series.

- Matt Price
Comics read in 2011:  1,743.  Still to go: 268.

Long-suffering “Captain America” fans finally got an A-list, top-notch film version of their favorite character when “Captain America: The First Avenger” came out earlier this year. But some disappointed Redbox patrons may instead find they’ve rented the TV movies “Captain America” and “Captain America II: Death Too Soon,” both originally shown on TV in 1979, and now out on DVD.

The movie takes a ton of liberties from the comics story. Reb Brown stars in both TV films as Steve Rogers. Dr. Simon Mills (Len Birman) wants Steve to take the FLAG formula, a sort of “super-steroid” that was developed by Rogers’ late father. Because his father experimented using his own DNA, the formula is only likely to work on someone in his family. Rogers refuses, but when he’s nearly killed investigating the death of a friend, Mills decides to use the FLAG formula on him without his permission, giving him peak human strength and other abilities. Unfortunately, all this origin means it’s over an hour into the film before Steve gets into Captain America gear, and when he does, he looks more like Evel Knievel than Captain America. His motorcycle, judging by the screen time it gets, is also a very important part of the film.

The first film must have been successful enough, despite making not too much sense, as most of the cast returned later that year for “Death Too Soon.” Connie Selleca (“The Greatest American Hero”) replaced Heather Menzies (“Piranha”) as Dr. Wendy Day.

The terrorist Miguel (Christopher Lee, slumming it) has stolen a rapid aging formula that he will use on a major American city if his demands are not met. (Thus causing — “Death Too Soon.”)

Steve tracks Miguel down to a small town, where he falls in love with a local woman, tussles with local roughnecks, and eventually tracks down the bad guys. Compared to the first film, this one’s semi-watchable, and Lee chews up the scenery with vigor. Hungarian-born Heidi Fleiss ex-boyfriend Ivan Nagy directs, and Captain America’s costume is closer to something that looks like the comics’ Captain America. It’s still pretty much a mess, but, prior to this year, “Death too Soon” was arguably the live-action Captain America to watch.

The Shout Factory Double Feature of “Captain America” and “Captain America II” has no special features to speak of, unfortunately. I’d love to have heard commentary from the directors or star about how these films were made.

— Matthew Price
From Friday’s The Oklahoman

Justice League #1 from 1987, drawn by Kevin Maguire.

Patrick Gleason (Batman & Robin; Green Lantern Corps), Kevin Maguire  (Justice League; Batman Confidential) and Freddie Williams (JSA  All-Stars; Batman) will be the special guests of a “Breaking into Comics” panel at 1 p.m. today at the Austin Comic Con,  500 E. Cesar Chavez in Austin.  The trio is expected to give out tips on refining art and pitching publishers. The panel will be held in Room B.

- Matt Price
Update: Patrick Gleason didn’t make it, but Maguire and Williams did. Very informative panel, which I hope to write up in more detail later!

Happy Veterans Day to those who have served our country.  Your sacrifices are appreciated.

For those who wondering why Nov. 11 is the date for Veterans Day, find out the story behind the date at the Christian Science Monitor.

- Matt Price

Editorial cartoonist David Simpson has retired from the field after allegations of plagiarism surfaced last month.   The former Tulsa World cartoonist had been cartooning for Urban Tulsa Weekly, who announced his retirement in the Nov. 3-9 issue.

The Oklahoma Cartoonists Hall of Fame, housed at the Toy & Action Figure Museum in Pauls Valley, has removed Simpson from the Hall of Fame.

The museum web site states:

Due to the recent revelation of another apparent incidence of plagiarism on the part of David Simpson, who had been inducted into the Oklahoma Cartoonists Hall of Fame in 2005, before he had been terminated by the Tulsa World for plagiarizing another cartoonist’s work, the Oklahoma Cartoonists committee now hereby announces the formal retraction of that honor.

- Matt Price

Hawk and Dove #3 (DC Comics)

Comics writer and Oklahoma native Sterling Gates returns to Norman on Wednesday to sign at Speeding Bullet Comics, 614 N Porter Ave. in Norman.

Gates will sign his books from 5 pm to 8 pm on Wednesday, Nov. 2.

Gates is writing “Hawk and Dove” as part of DC Comics’ “The New 52” line, which launched in September and set sales records. The New 52 is a company-wide relaunch, offering a new take on DC’s classic characters.  Gates is working with artist Rob Liefeld (“Youngblood”) on “Hawk and Dove.”  A preview of “Hawk and Dove” issue #3 is available at Hero Complex.

Other new Sterling Gates projects:
Captain Victory from Dynamite:  Captain Victory is a space epic based on the works of Jack Kirby.
Unite and Take Over:  Gates provided a story for this anthology based on the songs of the Smiths.
Gathering Vol. 6:  Gates wrote a story for this horror anthology comic.

Gates grew up in Tulsa and graduated from the University of Oklahoma.  He currently lives in Los Angeles.  For more information about the signing, call 405 360-6866 or visit www.speedingbulletcomics.com.

- Matt Price
Matt Price is one of the owners of Speeding Bullet Comics.

Stan Lee (AP)

Charitybuzz is providing comics fans some rare opportunities to meet with the people behind their favorite comics.

A fan can win a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to enjoy a lunch date with Stan “The Man” Lee along with POW! Entertainment co-founder Gill Champion in LA.  The lucky diner will also get to take home two autographed comics.

Bidding is open through October 19 at http://www.charitybuzz.com/catalog_items/281204 with proceeds going to Communities in School of Los Angeles.

Lee, former publisher of Marvel Comics, co-created a laundry list of characters including Spider-Man, the Fantastic Four, the Hulk and the X-Men.

Own a Commemorative Marvel Encyclopedia Signed by Stan Lee

Another way to get a Stan Lee autograph is to bid on a Marvel Encyclopedia offered by Charitybuzz.  A copy of the Marvel Encyclopedia, signed by Stan Lee, is up for bid through October 5 at http://www.charitybuzz.com/catalog_items/272716. The book contains new artwork, stats and histories for Spider-Man, the Hulk, Wolverine and more. Proceeds benefit the Young Story Tellers Foundation.

Lunch at Archie Comics Headquarters in NY with the CEO

Two Archie Comics fans could meet the CEO of the company in a special Charitybuzz auction.

Nancy Silberkleit, the CEO of Archie Comics, will meet with the auction winners in New York at the comic book company’s headquarters.   Bidding goes through October 5 at http://www.charitybuzz.com/catalog_items/283815 with proceeds going to the Plastic Pollution Coalition.

- Matt Price
Click past the cut to find out more about the charities involved.

About the charities

Communities in Schools of Los Angeles is empowering students to stay in school and achieve in life. Their mission is to surround students with a community of support, empowering them to stay in school and achieve in life.

Young Story Tellers Foundation develops literacy through the art of storytelling. Using group exercises and one-on-one mentoring, they provide underserved children in the public school system an opportunity to write stories and see them brought to life through performance.

Plastic Pollution Coalition is an organization seeking to put plastic pollution at the forefront of global social, environmental and political discourse.

The fourth week of “The New 52″ was fairly Bat-centric for most of the titles.   “Batman” and “Nightwing” both re-established their core characters. There was also more sexual content in this week’s books, leading to lots of discussion online and in comic shops about gender relations and the portrayal of women in the DC Universe.   Click past the cut for reviews of Week 4 of  The New 52.

* BATMAN #1
Scott Snyder and Greg Capullo create an issue that feels like the beginning of a potential new epic, like a “Hush” or “Long Halloween.”   Though that’s stiff company, perhaps the most appropriate art comparison is “Year Two,” which featured Todd McFarlane’s take on the character back in the 1980s.   Story-wise, Snyder re-introduces the Bat-family as Bruce Wayne promises to help build a better Gotham with his wealth and connections.   Batman’s dropped into the middle of a mystery, where I think the character is at his best.  While this isn’t the absolute best relaunch book – I’m still giving the nod so far to “Action Comics” 1 – “Batman” makes it a close race.

* BIRDS OF PREY #1
A good start here for a book that’s historically pretty linked with Gail Simone (though Chuck Dixon actually started the concept).  Black Canary and her new partner Starling are the new Birds of Prey.  Investigative reporter Charlie Keen is following Black Canary, who is facing a murder rap.   The story builds in a non-chronological fashion, and seems like it’s going to take several issues to untangle the layers.  Artist Jesus Saiz is fantastic, and should be, along with Jamal Igle, the go-to artist for non-exploitative female comics.

* BLUE BEETLE #1
I like writer Tony Bedard, but I think my problem with this was, it wasn’t that long ago that I read the original introduction of Jaime Reyes, and liked that one better.   But that’s not fair to Bedard and artist Ig Guara’s clean and accessible first issue.   Bedard does a good job setting up the teenager’s world, and hinting at dire, cosmic threats to come.

* CAPTAIN ATOM #1
I liked the “man out of time” elements from the 1980s “Captain Atom,” but what we seem to get here is maybe something more Doctor Manhattan-like.   Captain Atom seems to be losing touch with his powers, and possibly with humanity.  JT Krul and Freddie Williams II are the creative team.   This first issue didn’t grab me overmuch; I found it hard to relate to what was going on.  The art is definitely different, though, with a lot of digital effects.

* CATWOMAN #1
Catwoman probably had her best sales success when Jim Balent played up her sexy attributes back in the 1990s, and Judd Winick and Guillem March go to that from page  1 of this new series.  In places, I liked it well enough, though the hookup at issue’s end is what’s gotten most of the discussion.  (DC’s insistence that this relaunch is aimed at teens makes me think this is pretty racy for the younger end of that age group, but then, it’s probably tame compared to TV.)

* DC UNIVERSE PRESENTS #1
With “Deadman” possibly coming to TV, this series looks to explain the character to a new audience.  Former circus performer Boston Brand can’t cross over after his death, and instead goes around attempting to help others by inhabiting their bodies, Quantum Leap-style.  This title will change stars, and I assume creative teams, each arc, but Paul Jenkins and Bernard Chang put together a strong start for it.

* GREEN LANTERN CORPS #1
Peter Tomasi looks primarily at two members of the Green Lantern Corps: Guy Gardner and John Stewart—the Green Lanterns of Earth not named Hal Jordan — and examines how they try to fit regular jobs and pursuits around being a galactic guardian. Fernando Pasarin is the artist.   While it’s not vastly different from the “GLC” before the reboot, this issue does introduce the main characters and the concept in a compelling way.

* LEGION OF SUPER-HEROES #1

Writer Paul Levitz and artist Francis Portela do their best to bring new readers up to speed via text boxes and the like, but with this many characters the first issue is a bit of an info dump.

* NIGHTWING #1
Another one that falls under “good first issue,” this re-establishes Dick Grayson as Nightwing and explores his connection to the circus, as his origin is gone over for the newcomers.   After spending a year filling in for Batman, Dick Grayson is back in his own costume on his own terms.  By Kyle Higgins and Eddy Barrows.

* RED HOOD AND THE OUTLAWS #1
Another one that was heavily dissected based on the sexual content.  The Red Hood rescues Arsenal, a former Teen Titan, with the help of another former Titan, Starfire.  Despite the Red Hood and Starfire appearing to be an item, Starfire hooks up with Arsenal.  Starfire – who once was engaged to Dick Grayson – claims not to remember her time with the Titans, which the Red Hood says is part of her alien makeup.  The issue ends with a “to be explained,” and I hope it is, since this isn’t the Kory we met in the Wolfman-Perez Titans at all.  If this is her new character, I’m not sure I like the character or the implications.  Scott Lobdell writes, Kenneth Rocafort provides the art.

* SUPERGIRL #1
This Supergirl is a Kryptonian who’s crash-landed in Siberia.  There’s not a lot of story here, but writers Michael Johnson and Mike Green appear to be setting up a story of alienation as Supergirl heads to our planet.  Nice art from Mahmud Asrar.  The problem for me again is that I feel like I just saw this, in Jeph Loeb and Michael Turner’s “Supergirl from Krypton,” and I was much more interested in the Sterling Gates version of Supergirl we were getting a couple of years ago.

* WONDER WOMAN #1
For fans of the Perez-era Wonder Woman, this issue had a heavy mythological feel and some gorgeous art.  It’s got a horror vibe, and reminded me a bit of Buffy the Vampire Slayer in a way, actually.  It’s not exactly the Wonder Woman #1 that will get youngsters reading comics, but it’s a very good first issue.

* THE NEW TEEN TITANS: GAMES
Bonus review for this hardcover that’s not part of the New 52.  “The New Teen Titans” was DC’s best-seller back in the early 1980s.  This graphic novel project was intended for release back in the 80s, but a series of delays and mishaps have kept it hidden until 2011.   Perez began working on this again a few years ago, but the art doesn’t show any signs of age or inconsistency.  This long-delayed hardcover is an updated take on the classic Marv Wolfman-George Perez team, and I enjoyed it immensely, from the character moments to the art to the action.   The plot’s not groundbreaking exactly, but it doesn’t matter – this is a reunion tour that hits all the right notes in execution.  For those who want one last chance to enjoy the Wolfman-Perez Titans, or those who want to see what all the fuss was about back then, this is a clear purchase.

- Matt Price
Comics read in 2011: 1,451. Still to go: 560.

It’s International Talk Like a Pirate Day!

You can find out more at the official site: http://www.talklikeapirate.com/

Here’s what they have to say about the day:

In the … years since Dave Barry mentioned us in his nationally syndicated newspaper column, what once was a goofy idea celebrated by a handful of friends has turned into an international phenomenon that shows no sign of letting up. Maybe you read about us on line.. Maybe you caught one of our radio or TV interviews. Or maybe you just stumbled on to our site while googling around for sites your mother probably wouldn’t approve of. Or perhaps you’re one of the millions of people from South Africa to the South Pole, from New York to the Pacific Northwest, who’ve made it your own personal excuse to party like pirates every September 19th (and sometimes for days before and after)!

You can also join in with the pirates on their official Facebook page.

- Matt Price

Christopher Priest wrote the definitive “Black Panther” run, starting as part of the “Marvel Knights” line in 1998.   Though most of the book isn’t available in collections, it’s well-worth tracking down the entire run. 

Black Panther 1-62 ran from 1998 through 2003, with all but two issues written by Christopher Priest (formerly Jim Owlsley).

The first 12 issues are almost a Tom Clancy novel with an African king as the star.  With artists Mark Texiera on issues 1-6 and Joe Jusko, Mike Manley and Mark Bright on issues 7-12.

The Black Panther is an Avenger, but he’s not exactly a superhero.  The Black Panther is T’Challa, the king of the technologically advanced African nation of Wakanda.   He wears the costume of the Black Panther as the head of the Panther Clan in his land.

In “The Client,” issues 1-6, the Panther arrives in New York City to investigate the murder of a young girl who had been the beneficiary of a Wakandan charity.   What he discovers is that he’s been lured away from his nation in order for his enemies to orchestrate a coup.

Everett K. Ross is a government attache assigned to be the Black Panther’s handler while he’s in the U.S.  What’s intended to be a four-day mission ends up keeping Ross at the Black Panther’s side for the majority of Priest’s run.

The series begins with a lot of “Pulp Fiction”-style out-of-sequence storytelling, but as the series continues, it lessens, though doesn’t go away entirely.

Priest’s Black Panther is always three steps of his enemies; he’s a bit of a Marvel Batman.

The series later creates a Kirby homage that appears at first to be humorous, or even taking shots at the Kirby-era comics; but by the time it’s over, Priest has created a heartbreaking tale tying in the Kirby era.

Sal Velluto and Bob Almond provide fantastic artwork for the majority of the series middle run.   In issue #50, a new Panther is introduced.  Except for issues #57 and #58, a two-part story written by J. Torres, this new Panther is the focus of the remainder of the series, as he’s aided by T’Challa in what’s much more of a crime fiction arc than the previous issues of the series.

“Black Panther” is a smart, political thriller that offers many rewards to those who navigate the entire run.  Complex yet funny throughout, “Black Panther” is one of the underrated gems of Marvel Comics’ recent history.

- Matt Price
Comics read in 2011: 1,427.  Still to go: 584.

If you’re going to relaunch “Action Comics,” the granddaddy of all superhero comics, you should probably be prepared for some criticism.   However, after reading the 2011 “Action Comics” #1 by Grant Morrison, Rags Morales and Rick Bryant, I can’t find much with which to take issue.

For those who have read a lot of “Superman,” there are homages to be found, and a strong tie back to Superman’s original conception in 1938′s “Action Comics” #1.  But for brand-new fans or curious new readers, it’s all there on the page.

Set six months before the events of “Justice League” No. 1, Clark Kent’s a new reporter at a competitor to the Daily Planet.  He’s friends with Jimmy Olsen, who works there, and beneath the radar of star reporter Lois Lane.

Superman, meanwhile, goes about his business in work boots and blue jeans, rustling up corporate criminals and raising the ire of everyone from the police and military to Lex Luthor, a brash industrialist who doesn’t much cotton to the idea of a superhuman.

Superman’s a bit arrogant, but very much easy to root for, as he attempts to stand up to bullies of all stripes.

Rags Morales effortlessly paces Morrison’s script, and readers will all but hear John Williams’ Superman score in the background as the Man of Steel is reintroduced for a new era.   So far, this is the comic book of the year.

- Matt Price
Comics read in 2011: 1,342 Still to go: 669.

DC Comics will kick off its linewide relaunch, The New 52, on Wednesday, with the last pre-relaunch issue, “Flashpoint” No. 5, and the first issue of the new line, “Justice League” No. 1.

According to DC, “Justice League” will be set at the dawn of the age of superheroes. The first storyline explores the team’s origins as they ultimately become the world’s greatest superheroes, featuring characters including Superman, Batman, Wonder Woman, Green Lantern, The Flash, Aquaman and Cyborg. The new Justice League series is written by Geoff Johns (“Blackest Night”) and drawn by Jim Lee (“Batman: Hush”).

“Flashpoint” No. 5 is the final issue in the Geoff Johns-Andy Kubert miniseries. According to DC, the concluding issue will provide a bridge from the events of “Flashpoint” to the events of The New 52.

The New 52 are 52 new or relaunched titles from DC Comics being released through the month of September.

The main changes in the relaunch appear to focus on Superman; DC has said that the Man of Steel will no longer be married to Lois Lane once the relaunch takes place. Grant Morrison will write “Action Comics,” which will focus on Superman’s early days, and may clear up some of the mystery around how Superman’s story has changed. George Perez will write the character in current day in “Superman.”

“One of the things we’re going to do in this book is also to show you how Superman is, who he is, why he ended up wearing the costume that he wears,” Morrison said in a video promoting the project. “And to show kind of a different side to the character than we’ve ever seen before.”

Oklahoma-born writer Sterling Gates is writing one of The New 52. Gates will write “Hawk and Dove,” drawn by Rob Liefeld (“X-Force,” “Youngblood”).

“‘Hawk and Dove’ begins with them arguing over how they should handle the problem in front of them, establishing that Hawk is always comparing Dove to his first partner,” Gates said in a recent interview at DC Comics’ Source blog. “We’re going to delve more into that conflict as time goes on, but I really think it makes sense to get it in front of the reader right away. I like to give superheroes a nice big action beat when they first enter the story so we know they’re the hero and that they’re always going to try and succeed and save the day! Now, whether they succeed or not is a different matter altogether.”

The “Hawk and Dove” characters were created by Steve Ditko and Steve Skeates. Brothers Hank and Don Hall first appeared in 1968′s “Showcase” No. 75, each exemplifying the aggressive “Hawk” and passive “Dove” monikers of the time. Don Hall died in 1986′s “Crisis on Infinite Earths.” In 1988, a new Dove, Dawn Granger, was introduced in a “Hawk and Dove” miniseries written by Karl and Barbara Kesel and illustrated by Liefeld. These characters will star in the new series by Gates and Liefeld.

“Action Comics” No. 1 and “Hawk and Dove” No. 1 will go on sale Sept. 7. “Superman” No. 1 will go on sale Sept. 28.

By Matthew Price
WORD BALLOONS
From Friday’s The Oklahoman

In two books set in the same world, “Irredeemable” and “Incorruptible,” writer Mark Waid explores the nature of heroism and villainy.  In “Irredeemable,” the Plutonian, the world’s greatest hero, snaps after a lifetime of trying to help humanity.   Meanwhile, in “Incorruptible,” the former supervillain Max Damage has a change of heart in the aftermath of the Plutonian turning against the world he’d always protected.

Irredeemable Vol. 1 (1-4) sets up the fall of the Plutonian with a bang, as he tracks down his former ally the Hornet.  Drawn by Peter Krause (“Power of Shazam”), the book quickly departs from a traditional superhero narrative and lets the reader know that this world has been turned on its ear by the events that are unfolding.   Touching on some of the same themes as “Kingdom Come” and “Empire,” some of Waid’s best works, the first “Irredeemable” volume is one of the best books of the past decade, and deserves a shot on every superhero fan’s shelf.

Waid and Jean Diaz kick off the companion book Incorruptible, where former supervillain Max Damage changes his ways after seeing the Plutonian’s attack on Sky City.  The first volume (issues 1-4) introduces Max, who is only vulnerable for about an hour after he wakes up.  He grows stronger and more invulnerable the longer he stays awake.  With his partner, the underage “Jailbait,” Max attempts to change his ways and become the hero this new world needs.

If there’s a criticism to “Incorruptible,” it’s could be that it’s takes a while to get a handle on why exactly Max was so bad, and why exactly he’s now become so resolute in his moral code.

In the second volume of “Irredeemable,” (collecting issues 5-8), the surviving members of the superhero team the Paradigm try to figure out how to bring the Plutonian down.  Flashbacks give more insight into the slow cracking of the hero.  Meanwhile, tech expert Qubit is using a strange method to discover “Tony’s” weakness — robot duplicates of the Plutonian’s greatest enemy, Modeus.

Artist Horacio Domingues takes over in vol. 2 of “Incorruptible,” collecting issues 5-8.   Max deals with a threat to his underage partner, Jail Bait, and gains something of a new sidekick in the process.

In “Irredeemable” Vol. 3, more is revealed about what caused the Plutonian to go off the deep end.  We also get more background about Bette Noir, married to the mythological hero Gilgamos, who had an affair with the Plutonian and has been keeping an important secret from the rest of the surviving Paradigm.   The U.S. government, fearing the Paradigm and Plutonian both, summon a demonic villain, Orian, to take the Plutonian out.

Vol. 4 of “Irredeemable” collects the “Irredeemable Special” and issues 13-15.

The Irredeemable special provides the origin of the Max Damage-Jailbait team-up, background on the Hornet, and the origin of Kaidan.  Diego Barreto provides the art for the majority of the volume, as Bette Noir finally reveals what happened on the day the Plutonian went mad.   Barreto is no Peter Krause, who provided stellar art in the first three volumes, but he is acceptable.

In the third volume of “Incorruptible,” collecting issues 9-12, splits the artwork between Horacio Domingues and Marcio Takara. A group of “white power” thugs believe the Plutonian to be a white supremacist, so they attack members of different races in the name of the Plutonian.   Max Damage – calling himself Max Daring, at least to himself – investigates after being asked by his police ally.   The group, however, knows Max’s weakness.  A few new characters are introduced, including an important behind-the-scenes player.  The Plutonian’s former girlfriend, Alana Patel, also becomes a key supporting cast member.

Peter Krause is back in the fifth volume of “Irredeemable,” (issues 16-19), which shows some “Miracleman” influence (as do other parts of the series) as the relationship between Plutonian and his sidekick Samsara is examined.   We also find out about the secret deal the Hornet made if the Plutonian ever went rogue — and how his plan is executed from beyond the grave.   It seems the series could have ended here, if sales didn’t warrant continuing.

But continue it does, into Vol. 6, (issues 20-23), which sees the Plutonian’s capture and takes a deep trek into Tony’s mind and his visualization of himself.  More about the Survivor is also revealed.

In “Incorruptible” vol. 4, collecting issues. 13-16, the Paradigm approach Max for his help in rebuilding the world.  Max’s similarities to a noir character with a dark past trying for a better future are highlighted when he’s brought into contrast with some of the “Irredeemable” supporting cast.

Vol. 7 of “Irredeemable,” set to release this fall, will collect issues 24-27, featuring a dirty half-dozen attempting an escape from a prison world.   In issue 28, on sale now, the Earth will again face the wrath of an angry godlike being.

In “Incorruptible” 17-20, likely to be collected in Vol. 5, Max Damage finds out a secret behind his supposed benefactor.   In issue 21, on sale now, Max is attempting a fresh start, as he’s building something outside of town.  It appears an old enemy of the Plutonian may soon cause more trouble for Max – and he may gain yet another sidekick.

Through these two series, Waid has created an intriguing, fascinating world – sort of a dark mirror version of Kurt Busiek’s Astro City – that readers should explore.

- Matt Price
Comics read in 2011: 1,245. Still to go: 766.

Batman comics led the way in the past two weeks of the 2,011 in 2011 comic-book challenge, in which I am attempting to read 2,011 comic books in the calendar year.   I read 133 comics in the past two weeks — 121 of them were from “Batman” publisher DC Comics.   With 60 percent of the year over, I’ve read 1,159 comics, or 57.6 percent of the total comics I need to read.   Click past the cut for the full breakdowns.

DC Comics had its largest lead of any period this year, as I went through Batman comics both recent and from 15-20 years ago.

DC: 121
Marvel: 9
Image: 2
IDW: 1

Running through a good chunk of Paul Dini’s “Detective Comics” and “Streets of Gotham” helped make the 2000s the top decade this time around.

1950s – 1
1980s – 10
1990s – 35
2000s – 65
2010s – 22

Year to date:

Though DC gained ground, Marvel remains in first place in total comic books read.

Marvel Comics: 581
DC Comics: 256
Image Comics: 62
Valiant Comics: 47
Malibu: 39
Dark Horse: 36
Eclipse Comics: 23
Dynamite: 20
Sirius: 17
NOW Comics: 12
Oni Press: 12
IDW: 10
Pen and Ink: 7
Prize: 7
Broadway: 6
Radical: 4
Archie: 4
Archaia: 4
NBM: 3
Atlas: 2
Harvey: 2
Abstract: 1
Bluewater: 1
Boom!: 1
Triumphant: 1
Pacific: 1

The 2000s remain in the lead for most-read decade.  The 2010s are in second, one comic ahead of the 1990s, which moved up from fourth.  The 1980s slip from third place to fourth.

1940-1949: 1
1950-1959: 8
1960-1969: 25
1970-1979: 108
1980-1989: 215
1990-1999: 239
2000-2009: 322
2010-present: 241

- Matt Price

The story of Hush continues in “Streets of Gotham,” as Hush, who has surgically altered himself to look like Bruce Wayne.   Paul Dini is the regular writer, but Christopher Yost and Mike Benson provide some issues.   Dustin Nguyen is the main artist.

Streets of Gotham vol. 1: Hush Money
Dick Grayson has stepped in for the missing Batman in the series “Streets of Gotham.”   “Hush Money” collects “Streets of Gotham” 1-4 as well as “Detective Comics” #852 and “Batman” #685. The new Batman faces off against the Firefly as Hush, who altered his appearance to look like Bruce Wayne in “Heart of Hush,” attempts to put his new visage to work for him.   Known for his work on “Batman: The Animated Series,” Dini has a great feel for Gotham and its many denizens.  Dini also, in “Detective” and “Streets,” creates several intriguing supporting characters.

Streets of Gotham Vol. 2: Leviathan
Chris Yost fills in for Paul Dini in a two-part story, “Leviathan,”which follows Huntress on the trail of Man-Bat, who she believes has lost control.   Also included in the collection is Robin’s team-up with the new hero “Abuse,” and in the story “Hardcore Nights,” Batman goes undercover to find out who is killing the clients of a certain lady of the evening.   This book collects “Streets of Gotham” #5-11.

Streets of Gotham Vol. 3: House of Hush
The long-running Hush subplot featuring his impersonation of Bruce Wayne comes to a close in “House of Hush.”   Hush attempts his revenge on the Batman family, with a plan that ties in with Gotham’s past. This book collects “Streets of Gotham” #12-14 and 16-20.

From the back issues:

Detective Comics 225 (1955) First appearance of Martian Manhunter is what’s made this comic a key book – J’onn J’onzz is often seen as the first Silver Age hero.  In the lead story, billionaire Bruce Wayne donates money to the police fund so that he can fill in as Batman.

SuperFriends 45 (June 1981). The SuperFriends team up with international allies to rescue villains who are being used by an evil mastermind.

Comics read in 2011:  1,107. Still to go: 904.

Justin Timberlake (AP)

Found via Staticblog, another great rap mix by late night talk show host Jimmy Fallon and pop singer turned actor Justin Timberlake.  Check it out: History of Rap Part 2 with Justin Timberlake! – Show Clips – Late Night with Jimmy Fallon.

- Matt Price

Mill Creek has announced a special edition of the second season of “He-Man and the Masters of the Universe” will be available at Comic-Con International in San Diego.

It will be on sale at booth #4135, the FUNimation booth. This special Comic-Con release is available nearly two months before the regular edition release of the second season.

The complete 8-DVD, 65-episode second season, features exclusive artwork on collectible holographic foil packaging.  It will be on sale for $25, with bonus features including interviews, audio commentaries, character profiles and scripts.

The fantasy series features the hero, He-Man, who gets his powers from the mysterious Castle Grayskull.  He faces off against the evil Skeletor and protects the planet Eternia.    The cartoon series originally aired from 1983-1985.

The “He-Man and the Masters of the Universe” program was based on the Mattel toy line, first launched in 1982.

- Matt Price

X-Factor #204-206, Nation X: X-Factor

These issues, collected in the trade paperback “X-Factor: Second Coming,” released in early 2011, tie into the overall “X-Men: Second Coming” storyline, but work well enough on their own that you don’t have to worry about following the entire storyline.

Bolivar Trask secretly hires X-Factor for an apparently routine mission that leads them into his planned death trap. A subplot involves Monet, Strong Guy and Baron Mordo. Writer Peter David provides his typically witty dialogue.

In the “Nation X” one-shot, Cyclops invites the team to move into his floating island of Utopia.  But while they’re there, they must face off against the mysterious Crone as Longshot rekindles a romance.

- Matt Price
Comics read in 2011:  983.  Still to go: 1028.

Nerdage: So, the first GI Joe movie was, to put it kindly, a bit of a mess. Casting announcements for the sequel, thus far, have been a mix of “huh” and “hmmm”…. RZA may play the Blind Master. DJ Cotrona likely to play Flint. Channing Tatum and Ray Park set to return as Duke and Snake Eyes. Elodie Yung signed as Jinx. John Chu set to direct. The Rock expected to play Roadblock. Bruce Willis keeps being rumored. And this weekend, the news that may cause Staticblog’s George Lang to see a GI Joe movie: Adrianne Palicki, Deadline reports, will play Lady Jaye.

What do you think, Lang? Are you buying tickets for a Dwayne Johnson/Bruce Willis film based on 3 3/4 inch action figures?

StaticBlog: Actually, if it were based on the 12-inch Vietnam-era guy with the awesome bristle-cut hair and beard combo, I’d be in, because Kung-Fu Grip is freaking insurmountable in plastic hand-to-hand combat.

But because this is the “Real American Hero”-era Joe, I’m basically in for the reason you surmised — Palicki, Palicki, Palicki. They can have the guy who directed the last two “Step Up” time-wasters and “Justin Bieber: Never Say Never” at the helm, and yet they have Palicki, so everything’s going to be just fine.

Adrianne Palicki was, without a doubt, one of the best things about the first three seasons of “Friday Night Lights,” and as NBC viewers will certainly enjoy this Friday, her character, Tyra Collette, returns for the final two episodes of the series. She got a ton of bad press this spring when early costume photos from David E. Kelley’s “Wonder Woman” were given a trial balloon treatment by NBC and failed miserably in Internet comments sections everywhere. My personal view is that Palicki, standing nearly 6 feet tall with a distinctive beauty, was perfect for the role, but Kelley wasn’t the right guy. Joss Whedon was always the best choice. Palicki also got seriously screwed over when “Lone Star,” the best reviewed pilot of the 2010 television season, got dropped by hair-trigger cancellation champion Fox after two episodes. Considering that “Friday Night Lights” is one of the best dramas of the past 10 years but never was a ratings success, Palicki could stand a break — even from a clankety-clank monstrosity. Having her involved suddenly makes the thing interesting.

Nerdage: Tangentally, the rumor mill has it that Bruce Willis may be intended to play the original “GI Joe,” though I don’t know if Bruce is likely to rock the bristle-cut and beard… The character made, I believe, only one appearance in the Larry Hama comics and didn’t, as far as I know, appear on the TV show.

I, of course, enjoyed the original Larry Hama comics as a kid, and heard he consulted on the first film. Still, I found that movie mostly a confusing mess, though it was filled with attractive people. Will John Chu have better luck than Stephen Sommers?

StaticBlog: OK, so I understand how Sommers got from the first two “Mummy” movies to “GI Joe: The Rise of Cobra,” but how does Jon Chu parlay the “Step Up” movies, which are essentially “Breakin’ 2: Electric Boogaloo” with electro-pop and slightly larger budgets, much less the Bieber hagiography, into “GI Joe 2: Cobra Strikes”? He must know how to follow a budget and make money or something.

Nerdage: Chu told The Deadbolt that he’s a big fan of GI Joe from back in the day, played with the toys, had the comic and everything, so maybe he’ll make a movie the fans of the property want to see. Here’s hoping, anyway.

StaticBlog: At least there’s Palicki.

Palicki, Palicki, Palicki.