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Todd McFarlane Talks About Jim Lee Challenging Him at Baseball…and Failing

by Stentor
written by Stentor

This video and article was originally published February 18, 2015 by our founder Manny Popoca. We’ve taken the liberty of updating it.

If you are a fan of comic books at all, then you might well know the names Todd McFarlane, the creator of Image Comic’s Spawn, and Jim Lee, the Publisher and Chief Creative Officer of DC Comics.

Jim-Lee

If you are not familiar with these two men, they were once rock stars of Marvel Comics. Then the two became part of the fabled seven that left the big house (Marvel) to begin the unknown venture of trying to create their very own independent comic book company. Anyhow, that’s a tale to tell another day. What we are here to talk about is that very time period when the Image creators were still a band of brothers hanging out doing their crazy antics that not many people even know of today.

Todd McFarlane

Well that’s why PopCultHQ is here! The insider information and the ‘I did not know that’ content with which we will always come at you.

Here is the video I shot years ago at Wizard World Chicago Comic Con. I believe this was 2008 when the original Image Comics founding fathers were reunited (minus Jim Lee) once again to tell their dazzling stories.

What dazzling story do we have for you today? Well how about the time Jim Lee tried to outshine Todd McFarlane at a game of batting cage hitting only to end up holding Todd McFarlane’s very own balls!!! Check out my video below…..I’m so sorry for the bad quality, It was shot off a digital camera like eons ago but it’s worth watching till the end!!

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Comic PreviewsNew Comic Book DayPop Cult News

[Preview] Marvel Comics’ 11/6 Release: X-FORCE #1

by Jason Bennett
written by Jason Bennett

This Wednesday, November 6th, Marvel Comics is set to release the debut issue of X-FORCE!

Here’s a look at the covers, storyline and preview pages for
Marvel Comics’ new release on New Comic Book Day…

MARVEL COMICS
IN STORES THIS WEEK

New Release for the week of November 6th, 2019

~~~~~

X-FORCE #1 – Cover A

X-FORCE #1

Writer: Benjamin Percy
Artist: Joshua Cassara
Colorist: Dean White

Cover Artists:
Cover A: Dustin Weaver
Cover B: Russell Dauterman (Young Guns Variant)
Cover C: Tom Muller (Design Variant)
Cover D: Mark Bagley (Every Mutant Ever Variant)
Cover E: Todd McFarlane (Hidden Gem Variant)
Cover F: Juan José Ryp
Cover G: Adi Granov

THE HIGH PRICE OF A NEW DAWN!

X-Force is the CIA of the mutant world—one half intelligence branch, one half special ops. Beast, Jean Grey and Sage on one side, Wolverine, Kid Omega and Domino on the other. In a perfect world, there would be no need for an X-Force. We’re not there…yet.

Comixology button

Print Edition Buy Now

VARIANT COVERS

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PREVIEW PAGES

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Publisher – Marvel Comics

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Comic BooksHistory

[Comic Book History] Counting to 1000 – A Look at Hidden Gems in DC Comics’ DETECTIVE COMICS Run

by Adrian Care
written by Adrian Care

The release of Detective Comics milestone 1000th issue is upon us.  While Action Comics has already achieved this significant number, there’s something even more special about the longstanding home of Batman (and other creations) hitting four digits.

It’s what DC Comics stands for. It’s survived downturns and reboots. Outlasted countless crises and implosions. It’s been home to some of the most significant creators to ever leave their mark, not only on the dark knight detective but on the entire comic book industry.

Robin debuted in Detective Comics. Batgirl too. Neal Adams first rendered his iconic take on Batman in the pages of Detective. Steve Englehart and Marshall Rogers’ run on the title was iconic and held in high regard by fandom. Artists of huge renown like Norm Breyfogle and Dick Giordano were showcased here. Scott Snyder, whose name is solidified in Bat-history, began with the character on this title too.

Countless creators have breathed life into this pillar of comic book history. Numerous editors, writers, artists, colorists, letterers, and inkers.

Before you run to the comic shop or hit download on Comixology on March 27th, brush up on some great work that may have fallen between the cracks during Detective Comics‘s 1000-issue reign.

Some are personal favorites, some are hidden gems or quirky deep-cuts. But below are some memorable moments of Detective Comics that deserve every fan’s attention and recognition alongside the more popular and well-known moments in Batman lore.

Detective Comics 821-851

Written by Paul Dini (with fill-ins from Royal McGraw, John Rozum, and Stuart Moore) and penciled by Don Kramer, Dustin Ngyuyen and J.H. Williams III. Transplanting Dini from the award-winning work on the Batman animated series and onto an ongoing Batman book was a no-brainer. The Mad Love writer’s work elevates all involved to the next level, right down to the pulp noir covers by Simone Bianchi. The majority of Dini’s run were self-contained “one-and-done” issues with the occasional two-part or multi-part storyline thrown in at exactly the right points. This was pure comic book storytelling. Dini reformed the Riddler to become less a joke and more of an ally or competitive equal to Batman. This run introduced new creation Façade, a new Ventriloquist, and a rogue’s gallery of guests and villains that included Catwoman, Harley Quinn, Poison Ivy, Penguin, Zatanna, Ra’s Al Ghul, the Mad Hatter, and the Joker (in one of the greatest single Joker issues in modern comics). Dini’s run also built on Jeph Loeb and Jim Lee’s Hush with the astounding follow up “Heart of Hush”. You can find some of these stories collected in the Batman: Detective and Private Casebook trades.

Detective Comics 527-566

Doug Moench began a run on the book in 1983 that is indexed by some truly fantastic covers (by Gene Colan at a career peak). 40 straight issues of the most consistent storytelling you’re likely to find, and in the midst of a pre- and post-Crisis on Infinite Earths reshuffle, no less. No title comes to mind that holds as strong during a company-wide crossover as these issues do. Especially in our era of the tentpole summer event. Forgotten foe Nocturna was an important character throughout the run. The adventures of the pre-crisis Jason Todd (we hardly knew ye). Deadshot. Catman. Scarecrow. Black Mask, Calendar Man, and Film Freak. Villains that should otherwise induce eye-rolls were given as much credence as top-tier arch-foes. There’s an eighties version of the now famed BatCat romance. Real development in the character of Harvey Bullock. Adventures through the urban sprawl of Gotham City that were as thrilling as they were seedy and ominous. This run is underscored by ongoing Green Arrow back-up features and capped off by writer Harlan Ellison’s issue 567. The totally awesome and offbeat “The Night of Thanks, But No Thanks.”

Detective Comics
64-83, 85, 95, 97, 107-110, 440, 442

Jack Kirby. The King himself graced the pages of one of the flagship titles in comics history on a few occasions. An eclectic mix of contributions, Kirby provided inks, covers, and art at different intervals and told tales of the Boy Commandos. When he crossed over to DC in the ‘70s, he dropped back in on Detective with a Paul Kirk Manhunter backup (issues 440 and 442).

Detective Comics 480- 526

Don Newton must be one of the most underrated artists in comics history, let alone underrated Batman artists. Reported to have a greater fondness for his own work on DC’s Captain Marvel (the one true Captain Marvel), his dark and brutally human work on Detective Comics is seriously worthy of admiration. You can see the influence of Neal Adams in it, but it was its own thing and there are echoes of it in the works of artists like Rags Morales and Dale Eaglesham today. He shaded a darker tone to even the silliest of Gotham’s rogues and his layouts and sense of dramatic storytelling was uncanny. His work on the title culminated in the eye-popping, gorgeous visuals in issue 526’s “All My Enemies Against Me” anniversary issue. Some of his work has been collected in Tales of the Batman: Don Newton trade paperback.

Detective Comics 800-814

David Lapham. The urban crime master behind Stray Bullets proved another perfect fit for Detective Comics. Right before Infinite Crisis and One Year Later (hang around for James Robinsons great short stint following this run). Laphams run was the 12 part “City of Crime” storyline with a brief interlude for the War Crimes crossover. It features a deadlier, more homicidal, Ventriloquist and Gotham City at it’s most viscerally dangerous. Lapham provides covers alongside writing duties, but the interiors are carried out just as ably by Ramon Bachs. If you like your Batman stories down, dirty and covered in grit you need to track down these issues.

Detective Comics 418, 483-485

Another surprising name to contribute work to Detective is Steve Ditko. Across the 70s, the co-creator of Spider-man and Dr. Strange has a scant five credits to his name on Detective Comics. Issue 418’s “and be a villain” is “respectfully dedicated to Steve Ditko”. Later Ditko would pencil a back-up feature of Etrigan the Demon in a story written by legendary Len Wein.

Detective Comics 635-367

Louise Jones Simonson has made her mark on every hot title across the big two. Superman, X-Factor, New Mutants, Star Wars. You name it. But this triptych run on Detective begs to be reawakened via collection or spotlighted (appropriately) on a digital platform. A computer-generated nightmare that has Batman and Robin questioning if they can trust their wits and instincts. The dynamic duo descends deep into a deadly game to save Gotham AND the person tormenting the city.

Detective Comics 569-581

Following on from Doug Moench is one thing. Being tasked with following Frank Miller’s redefining origin tale is a whole different ball game.  Mike W. Barr was paired with the polished, fluid art of Alan Davies. ‘Batman: Year Two’ is much more than a cash-in on the success of Year One and features some awesome Todd McFarlane covers (and some interiors, too). It’s a brief run that generates great storytelling and includes appearances by The Joker, Catwoman, Jason Todd, Leslie Thompkins, and a fantastic Two-Face story.

Detective Comics 736,739,740

The ‘No Man’s Land’ crossover was a booming, thunderous, and ambitious storyline. The magnitude of it extended far beyond the earthquake that decimated Gotham in the previous ‘Cataclysm’ storyline, doing something completely new with the entire Batman landscape and bringing Batman into the new millennium with a grand sense of occasion. It also served to shine a spotlight on many future comic book stars. John Cassaday contributed covers, pencils, and inks to the moody, atmospheric epic. Giving comic book fans a glimpse of what was in store for his breakthrough Captain America and Astonishing X-Men runs.

Detective Comics
625, 626, 628-630, 633, 644-646

This entry is exclusively about Michael Golden’s covers. You’ll not see anything like them elsewhere. Walking into news agencies and comic shops in my childhood, there was nothing else in the racks that compared to them. The pop-art colors. The gothic architecture. Golden’s covers seemed far ahead of their time but maintained a perfect, foreboding, and haunting fit for the Dark Knight detective. These are images that are begging to be reappropriated for posters, t-shirts, and other Bat-merch.

Detective Comics 654-658, 660 and 662

Sam Keith, the creator of The Maxx and one of The Sandman’s original art team, has one of those distinctive styles that just works on the caped crusader’s darker leanings. A Wolverine/Batman crossover drawn by Keith is something that should never have gone begging.  The dynamic mix of Image Comics sensibilities drawn by a unique auteur with distinctive style. The only thing this brief run lacks is consistency. Pencilling interiors sporadically. Providing inks and jaw-dropping, brutish covers. If Keith’s work had been lengthier. his name would have as much attachment to Detective as it does to his creator-owned property.

Detective Comics 598-600

The writer of Tim Burton’s Batman movie in 1989 penned a three-parter that lead into the milestone 600th issue celebrations. Sam Hamm’s “Blind Justice” proved that the writer’s Batman nous may have been muffled by Tim Burton’s fingerprints (not that anybody is really complaining). 400 issues before Kevin Smith writes a tale of the bat, Hamm proves a significant precursor of Hollywood writers showing their comic book roots some reverence and respect.

Detective Comics 583-597 and 601-621

Before moving on to the equally excellent Batman: Shadow of the Bat, Alan Grant wrote a decent-sized run on Detective from 1988. Right before (and during) the zeitgeist dominating wave of Bat-mania. The English writer wrote Batman in all his stoic, haunting, urban, gothic genius. If you want a forerunner or companion to Grant Morrison’s take on Batman, this is the run. First teaming with John Wagner before flying solo, this run has great stories that include the likes of Ventriloquist and Scarface, Ratcatcher, Cornelius Stirk, The Demon, The Mudpack, Anarky, and Penguin. Norm Breyfogle earned his renown on the character here, but nobody should discount the tandem he’d formed with Alan Grant. They balanced quieter, nuanced, smaller-scaled stories with grand-scale action and adventure. These issues have dated so well that they’re almost timeless.

Detective Comics 629-633, 638-640, 643, 842

Peter Milligan doesn’t get enough of his due as one of the figureheads of the ’80s British invasion. While Moore, Gaiman, and Morrison have legend and rockstar status, Milligan seems to fly under the radar despite the cornerstone Shade: The Changing Man, right through to X-Statix, X-men and up to Kid Lobotomy. His Detective issues are my gun-to-my-head favorite. From single issue stingers like “the Hungry Grass” (629) to his part in the chaotic “the Idiot Root” storyline, 1991 and 1992 were quintessential Batman storytelling years that are the epitome of underrated.

Publisher – DC Comics

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Comic BooksSports

[Spotlight] ‘A League of Their Own’ – A Look at the Relationship Between Sports & Comic Books

by Adrian Care
written by Adrian Care

We’re in that awkward time of year where the Super Bowl has come and gone and the NBA season is in the grip of All-Star Weekend.

Larger than life characters, boastful rants, and feats of amazement. Hmmm, doesn’t sound too different from things you’d find in the pages of a comic book, does it?

Think the world of sports and the world of comics couldn’t be further apart? Think again. There is a firm relationship between both worlds, that invades many genres of book and just as many sporting codes.

Tom Brady may seem like he’s from Krypton, but former Chicago Bears linebacker Lance Briggs is famously a huge comic book fan. Not in the sense that he knows who the Avengers are or has watched a Batman film. Briggs has an astonishingly large single-issue collection and allegedly has a Mark Waid-level brain for retaining facts about comic book first appearances and major events.

Lance Briggs attends the First Annual Lance Briggs’ Comic Book Weekend at the Comic Vault on December 11, 2010 in Chicago, Illinois. (Photo by Jeff Schear/WireImage)

Maybe Briggs is a fan of Booster Gold, who’s classic origin had him as a star quarterback for Gotham University in the 25th century before coming to the present and taking up as a cornerstone of the Giffen/DeMatteis Justice League.

Booster faired better than the NFL SuperPro. Up there in ‘reverence’ with the likes of the New Universe and the DC implosion, the NFL SuperPro was a canceled-after-12-issues series of the early 90’s that featured an NFL player endowed with an indestructible football uniform who fought crime.

Speaking of the New Universe, Kickers, Inc. was another sports comics hybrid idea that only lasted 12 issues. Kind of like if the NFL SuperPro has some buddies and they decided to rip-off the heroes for hire, like most of the New Universe, Kickers, Inc was a shutout.

For a more successful take on football (or gridiron to the internationally inclined) the first word, when it comes to comics, is Jason Aaron and Jason Latour’s Southern Bastards. Like a blend of Friday Night Lights and 100 Bullets, this excellent series leans heavily on its sporting backdrop to the point where, just like the town of Craw County, you’ll believe the Runnin’ Rebs are the be all and end all of everything.

Todd McFarlane must have believed in baseball being the be all and end all of everything. In 1998, he paid 3 million dollars for the ball Mark McGwire hit to make his then record 70th home run.  He doubled down in 2003 paying $500,000 for Barry Bonds 73rd home run ball.

McFarlane’s sports obsession also saw his white-hot McFarlane Toys company become the official licensee of action figures for the NHL, NBA, NFL and MLB. Turning out exquisite figures of the same quality as his movie and comic book licensed productions.

Comic book creators love for America’s favorite pastime has often spilled onto the comic page. As far back as the golden age Green Lantern having one of his main villains being the Sportsmaster, or Casey Jones from TMNT and Kevin Matchstick of Mage swinging for the fences. Green Lantern (vol. 3) #19, a key issue in fostering my love for GL, features baseball being central to the eventual return of Alan Scott to the Green Lantern mythos.

The X-men enjoy a long-standing tradition of having regular baseball games become a hallmark of any good X-men run. The tradition began in 1978’s The Uncanny X-men #110 and has endured all the way through to recent runs.

Ernest Thayer’s American classic poem Casey at the Bat has often been adapted into comic book form. Most prominently by Peter David and Gary Frank in The Incredible Hulk #435, and in Fables #92. But my personal favourite will always be the all baseball-centric The Young All-Stars #7 featuring a baseball game to support the war effort between the JSA and the Young-All Stars.

For less super heroics and more biographical comics about baseball, All Star by Jesse Lonergan and 21: The Story of Roberto Clemente by Wilfred Santiago are essential reads.

Unfortunately, basketball isn’t as well represented in comic books as some of the fondly respected material mentioned above. It’s a commonly known fact that Shaq has a deep affinity for the Superman symbol (not talking about the Steel movie here, move along). Also, there is the tenuous link that Dwight Howard enjoys carrying the nickname ‘Superman’.  

Comics and Basketball are plagued by head shakers like the NBA’s own take on the NFL SuperPro, the BrooklynKnight and LeBron James: King of the Rings (please just stay out of the sports world, Marvel).  1992 saw Dark Horse extend the multimedia cross-over by publishing the comic of Charles Barkley vs Godzilla.

For something left of centre, check out Chopper: Song of the Surfer. A future-sports take on surfing featuring the Judge Dredd character, but an excellent look at competition by John Wagner and Colin McNeil, published in 1990. Or, in a similar vein, Mara from Image comics by Brian Wood and Ming Doyle that mixes volleyball, coming-of-age storytelling, and superpowers.

Going from sports to sports entertainment, let’s not forget the relationship between pro wrestling and comics. From Marvel’s WCW adaptation to Chaos! Comics Undertaker tales of the “Attitude Era,: wrestling comics have come a long way to get to the excellent Dennis Hopeless and Serg Acuna produced WWE from Boom! Studios.  There have also been two excellent biographies in graphic novel form about Andre the Giant that are critically praised.

That’s not forgetting, either, that many of the athletes from the world of wrestling are proud comic book fans. Chris Jericho often states love for Wolfman and Perez’ New Teen Titans, stating that’s where he came up with the Jericho name. AJ Styles and Samoa Joe have professed love for comics in interviews. As has Cody Rhodes, who is also a big cosplayer.  WWE superstar Alexa Bliss is renowned for appropriating cosplay into her ring gear, with obvious nods to the Riddler and Harley Quinn amongst her outfits. Finn Balor has built an alter-ego as the Demon by coming to the ring at times in a Venom inspired look. AJ Lee is a proud comic book geek, as well is her husband, CM Punk, who has even written for Marvel and DC.

Former UFC women’s champion Miesha Tate has been known to cosplay as Wonder Woman and Batman as well.

But no sport has been better represented in comic books as Boxing. The sport of kings, the sweet science has a far reaches in comic book lore. The Joe Palooka comic strip of 1930 had most recently been revived by IDW in 2012.

Paul Pope featured boxing as one of the central stories in the incredible 2002 Vertigo miniseries 100%.

Boxing is a key thread in the origin of Daredevil, most notably with the death of Matt Murdock’s father, boxer Battlin’ Jack Murdock. This sporting element has featured heavily in every call back to the beginnings of the “Man Without Fear.”

Golden Age hero Wildcat Ted Grant is the undisputed boxing legend of the DC Universe. Every iteration makes sure to play up the boxing element when featuring the much loved JSA stalwart.

But the greatest example of comic book and sporting worlds colliding? Every comic book fan worth their weight knows without a doubt it’s 1978’s pop-culture icon Superman vs. Muhammad Ali. A diamond in the jewel encrusted bibliography of Denny O’Neil and Neal Adams, it remains, fittingly, the last word on the weird and wonderful relationship between sports and comics.

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Spawn #288
Comic Reviewsindependent ComicNew Comic Book Day

[Comic Book Review] SPAWN #288 from Image Comics

by Christian Kern
written by Christian Kern

PopCultHQ received an advance review copy of SPAWN #288 from Image Comics. Available Wednesday, August 1st, the creative team for this series features writing from Todd McFarlane, art from Jason Shawn Alexander, colors by Lee Loughridge, and lettering from Tom Orzechowski.

Here’s PopCultHQ’s review of…

Spawn #288 - Cover A by Francesco Mattina

Spawn #288 – Cover A by Francesco Mattina

Spawn #288 - Cover B by Francesco Mattina

Spawn #288 – Cover B by Francesco Mattina

Spawn #288 - Cover C by Francesco Mattina & Todd McFarlane

Spawn #288 – Cover C by Francesco Mattina & Todd McFarlane

SPAWN #288

Writer: Todd McFarlane
Artist: Jason Shawn Alexander
Colors: Lee Loughridge
Letters: Tom Orzechowski

Cover Artist: Francesco Mattina
Variant Covers: Francesco Mattina, Todd McFarlane

Published: August 1, 2018
Age Rating: T

Digital : $2.99
Print: $2.99

Spawn, the escaped felon, goes on national television to expose his enemies.

PopCultHQ’s Comic Book Review:
SPAWN #288

Today I was tasked with writing about this week’s Spawn 288; whether or not that was a reward or a punishment remains to be seen. I was in high school (9th grade to be exact) when Todd McFarlane announced he would be leaving the series Marvel generated for him, Spider-Man. His final issue was number 16 but he only did 15 issues as Erik Larson stood in for him on issue 15. It was a sad day and the book was never the same however, on the heels of Rob Liefeld leaving X-Force and creating Youngblood for the Image imprint of Malibu Comics (yeah, Image started as an imprint) Todd announced Spawn in March of 1992. I remember taking my copy of Previews with Spawn on the cover to school. The thing is, I was impressionable at that young age. As I grew older, I noticed that newer characters didn’t really survive. The fact that Spawn has been around for 288 issues overwhelms me. When it reached issue 100 I was surprised and the same was said when it reached 200 and now we are 12 issues short of 300. My question has always been in the last few years is this, is Spawn still relevant? Not to say that the comic hasn’t given us some decent characters since the begining, namely Sam & Twitch as well as Angela, but does the comic still shine as a gem like it did in the 90s?

Well, let’s look at issue 288, shall we…

Writing:

Writing Spawn currently is Todd McFarlane himself. Sadly his storytelling has never been one of stellar proportions. Come to think of it, I can name one story he wrote which was extremely memorable and that was the first 5 issues of his Spider-Man series. The 1st 7 issues of Spawn were also interesting (at best) although extremely slow burns.

This issue is not good for a newbie to just jump into. It picks up in the middle of a storyline which even with the “Previously in Spawn…” fill, it’s still hard to find your footing. However, there are a few things I have gleamed from this issue and they aren’t good.

For ages, McFarlane has spoken about reworking Spawn as a type of ‘Boogeyman,’ something which would have very little interaction and impact on the actual stories. Back in 1999, the first Spawn Annual was released. The story was set to a much darker tone with much darker artwork than usual. It was a story about why Spawn was drawn to the one alley he hung out in and an apartment floor in a building which is next to that alley. It was about lost souls and lies and actually ended with someone hailing a taxi, believing they had escaped their fate only to discover Spawn dressed as the cabbie and flipping the meter ‘To Hell’ and driving off. Spawn seems to serve a purpose such as that in this issue.

The story so far, Spawn is known as the masked man from New York City. He has been captured by the United States government, only to be thrown in a hole to be forgotten. He escapes only to come back and mockingly hangs himself. This causes a riot and gives Spawn time to haunt the halls of the prison he is in until he can find a prisoner whom he needs to question. Except this inmate has no tongue, no thanks to Spawn.

Spawn has been reworked time and time again. He was first introduced as a superhero when Image Comics began in 1992. Not too soon after, the title was used as a platform for telling stories which paralleled the comic industry. The most notable being issue 10 written by Dave Sim of Cerebus fame. Eventually he was reworked into some sort of dark, horror comic not unlike the titles DC Comics had during the 1970s. Eventually, everything we knew about Spawn was altered, even the main character who was Spawn was changed from Al Simmons to Jim Downing with Al now ruling Hell and being a villain. This eventually shifted and Al Simmons was returned to his original Spawn roots. Which is who we are left with today.

No doubt the book has been constantly reworked, but to what end? Spawn started with an amazing sales record, yet McFarlane was never happy with his product, his attempt to strive for something…more, something…unique has almost alienated the people who read the book as much as he has alienated his fellow creators in the past. The reasons why Angela had been replaced with another angel of Heaven or how Chapel being the killer of Al Simmons was replaced with the female assassin Jessica Priest.

As this story seems to be on the heels of yet another reinvention on the horizon, it’s only a matter of time before we see what Spawn evolves into next as a character and with his story. When I sat down to read this, I couldn’t help but wonder if all the old tropes still applied; dying, going to Hell, coming back from a deal with the Devil for love. That sort of thing.

Even as a media res issue, the writing in this book is so terrible, Each piece of dialogue is very teeth-grinding-nails-on-a-chalkboard and you have to wonder where on Earth or anywhere in fiction do people talk like that to one another? It just makes you wonder where Spawn might be today if Todd McFarlane would just sit back and let it run on its own steam under other creative teams.

Art:

Jason Shawn Alexander, while his work is mainly independant work, he worked on DC’s Gotham Central. His notable work is for Dark Horse Comics’ Ape Sapien: The Drowning, Tales of the Vampires, and the covers of Conan and the Midnight God, to name a few. His Conan covers did indeed rival that of Frazetta and Vallejo, but his work on Spawn is a bit dark. Not just dark in tone but literally dark, using the most of his shading and that old slogan from Wally Wood, “When in doubt, black it out!” Words of wisdom which have carried comic artists for years. His work reminds me of Larry Stroman but a bit more cleaner. His art certainly fits the tone which McFarlane wishes to force into Spawn with every book he has written since 2001.

PopCultHQ’s overall assessment:

How this series remains relevant still eludes me. The fact it reached issue 288 this week makes me wonder that even if the sales slipped lower than usual, would McFarlane continue to publish the comic? I remember in the beginning, McFarlane claimed to have created Spawn back in the 1970s. If you track the sales figures, the series has had ups and downs but as of 2011 (after issue 200), Spawn no longer ranks on the top 300 top-selling comics recorded by Diamond Comic Distributors. Spawn can survive another 288 issues, but it requires a strong hand to guide it and sadly Spawn‘s creator is not that hand. If you examine the issues, stories, and trades of Spawn which have made impact or sales records, most of them are not written by McFarlane, usually they are drawn by him. No one denies Todd McFarlane’s artistic abilities, the man has made his career off placing his own spin on Spider-Man in the 80s. However, his writing leaves a Hell of a lot to be desired. Issue 288 here reads as if he understands the flow of the narrative in his mind but it wasn’t articulated well on paper.

PopCultHQ’s Rating:

1.5 out of 5 Stars

PopCultHQ Rating - 1.5 Stars

PopCultHQ Rating – 1.5 Stars

That’s right, this book is an utter wash. Unless you already read Spawn and are a fan for some reason of this character, there is nothing in this book. It’s not newbie-friendly, it’s not exciting. It’s darker than a Warner Bros. DC film in a bad way. I couldn’t recommend this series to anyone who didn’t already A) like Spawn, or B) appreciate McFarlane and everything he does. Remember the 1990s when everyone blindly bought anything this man did? I do, I was one, I bought Conan the Barbarian #241 simply because he drew the cover! So yeah, I’m guilty as well but what can I say, I enjoy the man’s art but his writing is miserable.

SPAWN #288 can be pre-ordered on ComiXology and at
your local comic shop and online retailers Wednesday, August 1st!

Be sure to follow the creative team!

Writer – Todd McFarlane

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Artist – Jason Shawn Alexander

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Colorist – Lee Loughridge

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Letterer – Tom Orzechowski

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Publisher – Image Comics

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ACE Comic Con Arizona
Conventions

[Convention Review] ACE Comic Con – Arizona 2018: A Bit Of A Mixed Bag

by Tori Ann
written by Tori Ann

ACE Comic Con

Editor Update: 1/19/18 19:15 CST – It was previously reported in this article that there was a 24-hour window when Gal Gadot was to be a guest at Ace Comic Con Arizona. The information was provided to our writer from a source that misrepresented themselves. Ms. Gadot was never scheduled to appear in Arizona and there were no known contract issues with the Long Island Event.

We have shared some of the great cosplays from Ace Comic Con Arizona this past weekend, but now I’d like to share some of my thoughts on the convention itself. This was the second event put on by ACE Universe, which is owned by the Shamus brothers. Held in Glendale, Arizona, the convention took place at the Gila River Arena on January 13-15.

While this wasn’t the best-run convention I’ve attended, it certainly wasn’t the worst. With this being a new convention, a few hiccups were expected, and they seemed to have made a few improvements over the event in Long Island last month.

The Good

In speaking with other attendees, overwhelmingly the most positive thing about the convention seemed to be how panels were set up. Plenty of seating was available in the arena, so attendees didn’t have to stand in line for hours only to not get in to a panel due to limited seating. The panels were also shown on screens around the arena, so you could shop and still not miss anything. Since everyone could see the panel, it felt more like a shared experience.

The stands gave a convenient place to sit if you needed to rest for a minute or to eat. At most conventions, you often settle for sitting on the floor. Occasionally food and drink vendors would go through the stands, but they were not overly obnoxious about it. The upper levels of the arena were also used as a staging area for those in line for celebrity autographs.

Some girls I spoke with said that their favorite part of the convention was the panels. It was hard for them to choose a favorite one, but they greatly enjoyed the panels with the comic creators. A favorite was the panel with the Spiderman creators, as you got their opinions on all the different Spiderman iterations. Their favorite moment of the weekend was meeting Tom Holland.

One attendee related an enjoyable encounter he had with Todd McFarlane. The two were talking and the subject of Stan Lee came up. Mr. McFarlane asked if he was going to meet the legend, and the man said that regrettably he was not, citing the cost. Mr. MacFarlane told him to come to his booth later, and he gave the man an autograph ticket for Stan Lee.

Since the stadium was not packed with massive crowds, there was a more casual feel to the event. No one felt in a rush to run and make a panel or get ready and wait in massive lines. You could take your time and shop, or chat with friends or new acquaintances, while still having time to do everything else.

Cancellations

Early in the day on Sunday, it was announced that Chris Evans was ill, and would likely not be attending the convention that day. It was later confirmed after Hayley Atwell’s panel that Mr. Evans would not be there. Ace Comic Con was quick to announce that full and partial refunds would be available, and attendees could go to Gate 1 if they wished to speak with someone about this. The friend I attended with and I were supposed to get a photo with both Ms. Atwell and Mr. Evans. When we went to redeem our photo op, we were told that we had the option of not redeeming the op and receiving a full refund, or still get a photo with Ms. Atwell and receive a partial refund. Tom Holland was gracious enough to step in for the solo photo ops Mr. Evans had scheduled that day, though not everyone seemed happy with that. Online, many simply wished for Mr. Evans to feel better but other became incredibly angry, demanding full refunds for the tickets and even their flights, and saying they would dispute the charges on their credit cards.

ACE Comic Con ArizonaACE Comic Con Arizona

 

On Sunday, it was announced that Karl Urban was also feeling ill and would not be able to attend Sunday or Monday. For the most part, this seemed to be taken in stride a bit more than the Chris Evans announcement. Due to his cancellation, the only guests on Monday were the WWE guests. During the time his panel was scheduled, the Spiderman panel from the evening before was re-broadcast on screens.

Improvement Still Needed

While there were plenty of positives about the convention, there are certainly still areas where it could stand to improve. Many people I spoke with stated that there was not a good flow to the vendor areas, which were on the main concourses and behind the panel stage. Particularly on top level, it seemed like vendor tables were crammed in, leaving not much space for people walking by, leading to issues with flow. The Photo Ops area backed up into the bottom level vendor area, which would get very crowded if there was a backup of the line to get into Photo Ops.

I heard the comment more than once that the convention was simultaneously trying to be too organized, yet also had a lack of signage. There was nowhere you could find a physical schedule of events or a map of the venue. Outside the venue, there were no signs pointing to the weapons check tent. You would only see it if you were coming to the main gates from a certain direction. This is particularly an issue, given the recent security problems at conventions. Several attendees complained about how the photo ops was set up. You needed a QR code from your email to get in line and redeem it, only to get in another line to get in, and then get in line for your particular photo op.

There were metal detectors at the main entrances, which has become an increasing trend at conventions, yet there was also a second set of metal detectors outside the photo ops area. However, these second set of metal detectors disappeared after Sunday.

Regarding the Chris Evans cancellation, I must commend the convention staff for how well they handled everything. They did their best to communicate what the options were, and tried to make sure that everyone would get what was due them, be that a substitution or a full/partial refund. However, there was no signage at first when it was unclear if he may be able to make it later in the day. The only way I found out about it was because we were told as much when we went to redeem our photo op. There was no notice on the screen at the beginning of the redemption line. Later, pieces of paper with the announcement were taped on tables by the entrance to the Photo Ops area.

Regarding accessibility, I believe that this is another area where the convention needs to improve. Nowhere on the Ace Comic Con website does it refer to accessibility accommodations. It seems as if attendees needing this would have to go out of their way to find a way to contact the convention about this. On site, this seemed like it could be an issue as well. Given that the panels had stadium seating, the best any non-VIPs could hope for was the seating at the top of each level. I assume that the panel floor and bottom vendor hall/Photo Ops area were accessible by elevator, but there were no signs to this effect other than the stadium signs for elevators.

Several attendees did not like the paper or plastic wristbands that were given out. The only ones given badges were VIPs.

The Noteworthy

While the arena was not exactly packed (a source told me non-VIP sales were about 4,800 tickets at the door), by far the least attended day was Monday. At times it felt like there were more arena staff/volunteers than attendees. In particular, the upper level was occasionally near-deserted. Several vendors packed up early on Monday, or weren’t even there.

On whole, it feels like Ace Comic Con is still very much in a fledgling state of growth, as well as learning what works and what doesn’t. Cancellations are certainly beyond the control of organizers, and something attendees must expect the risk of when they decide to attend a convention. However, if the organizers take the experiences at the two events and see any future events as an opportunity to improve, Ace Comic Con could certainly become a unique event.

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PopCultHQ Comic Book Review: SPAWN #277 from Image Comics

by Joshua Winchester
written by Joshua Winchester

PopCultHQ received a review copy of SPAWN #277 from Image Comics. Available August 30th, 2017, the creative team for this series features writing from Darragh Savage, art from Jason Shawn Alexander, and lettering from Tom Orzechowski.

Here’s PopCultHQ’s spoiler-free review of…

Cover B by Jonathan Hickman

Cover A by Jason Shawn Alexander

SPAWN #277

Writer: Darragh Savage
Artist: Jason Shawn Alexander
Letterer: Tom Orzechowski

Cover Artists:
Jason Shawn Alexander
Jonathan Hickman

In Shops: August 30th, 2017
SRP: $2.99

“DARK HORROR,” Part Two – Tokyo: A ring stolen leads Spawn into a web of kidnapping and murder. He confronts a super-powered gangster who looks to turn Spawn’s own weapons against him.


PopCultHQ’s Comic Book Review:
SPAWN #277

“Dark Horror” Part 2

Writing:

Darragh Savage continues to take on the task of chronicling more of Todd McFarlane’s dark superhero…and boy does he crush it! Although the plot does beget more questions then answers while Spawn is in Japan, it’s clear this case is one that will have a serious impact on his life and career as an anti-hero.

Art:

Jason Shawn Alexander’s art is fantastic. It’s got such a dark edge to it, perfect for a character like Spawn and his world of demons and monsters. There’s such shadow to Spawn’s figure, one could almost see the shadows swimming off him. The world of a Japan that has its own monsters, demons and myths is painted beautifully here, woven into a backdrop of life, crime and ordinary people.

Tom Orzechowski proves yet again he knows how to do the lettering for Spawn comics. Especially the lettering for Spawn himself. It’s got a grit to it, both in the word balloons and text boxes. Readers will be able to hear the gravel in Spawn’s voice, the mood of his internal musings. Let’s hope Tom will keep doing lettering on Spawn for a while now, he knows his stuff and keeps knocking it out of the park.

PopCultHQ’s overall assessment:

Spawn continues his adventure in Japan as the case takes a strange twist. Plus an encounter with a being who may prove to be a match for this dark hero. Tune in and read this issue and be prepared for action, mayhem and a stellar cliffhanger!

PopCultHQ’s Rating:

5 Out of 5 Stars

SPAWN #277 can be purchased on ComiXology
and available at your local comic shop and online retailers now!

Be sure to follow the creative team!

Writer – Darragh Savage

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Artist – Jason Shawn Alexander

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Letterer – Tom Orzechowski

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Publisher – Image Comics

 

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Comic BooksConventions

Amazing Las Vegas Comic Con (June 23-25): Guests | Programming | AfterParty

by Jason Bennett
written by Jason Bennett

Friday, June 23rd kicks off Amazing Las Vegas Comic Con and the title doesn’t do it justice. This outstanding convention runs through Sunday, June 25th at the Las Vegas Convention Center and has a fantastic lineup of guests, programming, heck there’s even an official Amazing Comic Con AfterParty!

From acclaimed comic creators as Rob Liefeld, Todd McFarlane, Gerry Conway, and Kevin Eastman, to some of today’s hottest names, such as Jason Fabok, Chad Hardin, Tyler Kirkham, Eddie Nunez, and Tony Fleecs. Some of Action Lab Entertainment’s popular creators will be on hand as well, such as Corey Kalman, Brockton McKinney & Christian Moran w/ cover model April O’Neil (AMERIKARATE), and Dan Mendoza (ZOMBIE TRAMP)!

There are also popular voice actors like Veronica Taylor (Pokemon, Sailor Moon) and Bonnie Gordon (Street Fighter), and Attack on Titan panel, a Street Fighter panel, Star Wars celebs Ray Park and Peter Mayhew, an Adam West tribute featuring Batman ’66 stars Burt Ward, Lee Meriweather, and Julie Newmar, and oh yeah, a guy named Stan Lee. Heard of him?

Here’s a look at what to expect this weekend in Sin City at Amazing Las Vegas Comic Con 2017!

PROGRAMMING FOR FRIDAY, JUNE 23rd

Convention Hall Open From 3PM-8PM

3:00pm

FORCE FRIDAY

Convention Hall

Select artists provide *FREE* Star Wars Sketches for fans of all ages.
Please check the Artist Alley list, where all names listed in BOLD are participating.

–

4:00pm

STAN LEE PHOTO SESSION

Froggy’s Photo Area

Tickets are available at the Stan Lee Collectibles Booth

–

GARAGE FX MAKERS DEMO

Convention Hall- Expo Area

Garage FX Family conduct make & take workshops throughout the weekend, each based on household items.
Check by their booth where you can get introduced to prop building, armor making, and more!

–

5:00pm

STAN LEE AUTOGRAPH SESSION

Stan Lee Collectibles Booth

Tickets available at the Booth, as well as Pre-Sale.

–

POKEMON & MORE: Spotlight on Veronica Taylor

Main Stage

Get to know VERONICA TAYLOR, the voice behind Pokemon’s Ash Ketchum in this entertaining Q&A Panel!

​

6:00pm

OVERWATCH FAN MEET-UP

Main Stage

Blizzard’s Overwatch has rocked fan community, blending first person shooter game,
with live competition, compelling graphics, and fresh character designs.
Delve into the back stories here, as we host a fan screening of the online short stories

–

MY LITTLE PONY FAN MEET-UP with TONY FLEECS

Room A (Upstairs)

Bronies and Pegasisters unite in this all ages fan meet-up.
Here, IDW Artist TONY FLEECS will conduct a Q&A session,
host trivia questions, while awarding prizes for Pony fans!

​

7:00pm

COSPLAY RED CARPET w/ THE LIBRARY BARDS

Main Stage

Show off your Friday cosplay on the Main Stage catwalk, as photographers and fans gather for this showcase.
Fan Favorite Pop Parody group, THE LIBRARY BARDS will also be performing!

 PROGRAMMING FOR SATURDAY, JUNE 24th

Convention Hall Open From 10AM-7PM

–

10:15am

TODD McFARLANE ULTIMATE FAN SIGNING

Convention Hall- Booth 201

The lucky 100 who were able to get the Ultimate Fan Package for Todd McFarlane will be able to attend this session.  Only 2 items will be allowed person, ages 13 and up. Please no CGC, or other witnessing/grading.
You MUST have Special Lanyard and McFarlane Badge for this session.

​

10:30am

STAN LEE PHOTO SESSION

Froggy’s Photo Area

Tickets are available at the Stan Lee Collectibles Booth

​

11:00am

KEVIN EASTMAN- TMNT AUTOGRAPH SESSION

Convention Hall- Booth 501

Teenage Mutant Ninja Creator Kevin Eastman will be hosting a fan signing until 1:00pm.  Each fan will receive *1* free signature with mini quick remark turtle.  TMNT VIP will have priority for this session!

–

PAWN STARS- LAS VEGAS COLLECTIBLE EXPERTS!

with Steve Johnston Rogue Toys, and More

Panel Room A (Upstairs)

Las Vegas is the Pawn Capital of the world, and a few years back a really popular reality show launched because of it.  Amazing Comic Con showcases the Collectibles EXPERTS from the TV Program.  Here they share stories from behind the camera, as well as give you tips on what to look for when searching for rare items such as toys, autographs, memorabilia and more!

–

11:30am

McFARLANE AUTOGRAPH SESSION, GENERAL ADMISSION

Convention Hall- Booth 201

Todd McFarlane will spend Saturday with the fans.  Again, Only 2 items will be allowed person, ages 13 and up. Please no CGC, or other witnessing/grading.

–

12:00pm

STAN LEE AUTOGRAPH SESSION

Stan Lee Collectibles Booth

Tickets available at the Booth, as well as Pre-Sale.

–

GOTHAM NIGHTS with Jason Fabok, Chad Hardin, and more!

Main Stage

Batman. The Button. Harley Quinn.
These great artists have given the comic market fan-favorite characters and storylines.
Join these creators in this special session.

–

HOW DID THEY MAKE THAT? Costuming with Garage FX

Panel Room A (Upstairs)

Jason Fowlers and Guy Caldwell host a power point presentation on creating costumes, props and more from household and garage items.  This is a perfect class for folks curious about cosplay, how to start, or for seasoned vets of the costuming world looking to take the next step.

–

1:00pm

ROB LIEFELD AUTOGRAPH SESSION

Convention Hall- Booth 515

CELEBRATE!  BATMAN ’66 SPECIAL PANEL with Burt Ward, and Friends!

Burt Ward hosts this special tribute panel celebrating the impact of BATMAN ’66 and Adam West.

Signing Sessions and Photos will immediately follow at booth #449

​

AMAZING ANIME SESSION: ATTACK ON TITAN with Bryce Papenbrook and Trina Nishimura

Panel Room A (Upstairs)

Funamation. Hulu. Netflix. AOT is cross cultural phenomenon.
Join the two popular voice leads of both seasons of Attack on Titan give a behind the scene look at the hit anime phenomenon. Here, ALL FANS will receive FREE Gift for attending!

–

2:00pm

AMAZING SPOTLIGHT on RAY PARK

Main Stage

Action star RAY PARK has lit up the screen with a variety of roles including X-Men’s Villainous Toad, Tim Burton’s Headless Horsemen,  GI JOE’s Snake Eyes, and Star Wars’ DARTH MAUL.
Moderated by Mat Nastos, with Audience Q&A.

​

HORROR & SCI-FI in COMICS

Panel Room A (Upstairs)

If you love horror, science fiction, and comic books, this is the panel for you. Join film and comic producer Sandy King (Big Trouble in Little China & They Live) and comic and short story writer James Ninness (REACH & John Carpenter’s Tales of Science Fiction: VAULT) as they discuss the genre, making comics, their newest book, and answer all of your questions. FREE gifts for those in attendance.

–

2:30pm

KEVIN EASTMAN- TMNT AUTOGRAPH SESSION

Convention Hall- Booth 501

Teenage Mutant Ninja Creator Kevin Eastman will be hosting a fan signing until 4:30pm.  Each fan will receive *1* free signature with mini quick remark turtle.  All Ages, General Admission Welcome!

–

3:00pm

EXTREME 25th Anniversary Celebration – Hosted by ROB LIEFELD

with Marat Mychaels, Dan Fraga, Jeff Matsuda, Karl Altstaetter, and Shelby Robertson

Main Stage

Fresh off the success of Cable, Deadpool, and X-Force, Creator Rob Liefeld left the security of Marvel Comics by opening his own studio, and launching Image Comics. The legacy of the creators gathered is remarkable, and here is their story.  Group Signing immediately following on the convention floor.  FREE comics to all fans in attendance.

–

ART with ASHLEIGH!

Panel Room A (Upstairs)

Ashleigh Popplewell is one of the most talented artists living and working in Las Vegas.  Her subject matters cover all genres of Pop Culture, with her work found a number of trading card sets from Avengers to Walking Dead, Doctor Who, and many more.  Cooler than the Happy Painter from PBS, she takes you through a piece start to finish during this session.  Free Gifts to all who attend!

–

STAN LEE AUTOGRAPH SESSION

Stan Lee Collectibles Booth

Tickets available at the Booth, as well as Pre-Sale.

​

4:00pm

AMAZING SPOTLIGHT TODD McFARLANE

Main Stage

Todd McFarlane is mic’d up with the special solo spotlight session, which includes fan interaction and more.

–

VERY AWESOME GIRLS SPOTLIGHT

Panel Room A (Upstairs)

Las Vegas’ very own female fan group has contributed to the local fan community.
Check out this fun filled panel, meeting the members!

–

STAN LEE AUTOGRAPH SESSION

Stan Lee Collectibles Booth

Tickets available at the Booth, as well as Pre-Sale.

​

5:00pm

AMAZING SPOTLIGHT on STAN LEE

Main Stage

Amazing Comic Con launched in Las Vegas with Stan,
and now 5 years later he makes another appearance with us for our anniversary!

–

PROJEKT CARS with Carlos Molina

Panel Room A (Upstairs)

Carlos Monlina of ProjeKt Cars doesn’t believe that Cosplay ends with a convention, but it’s something to take to the Streets! On the Convention floor you have seen the Spawn Cars, which ProjeKt Cars and Garage FX have transformed from street legal cars, a Mustang and Jeep. Check out the process in this special session! Prize Winners will be selected from the crowd!

–

6:00pm

TRAILER PARK with Tony Adorno

Main Stage

Upcoming Movies, TV Show, and Video Games are showcased in this special big screen presentation!

​

7:00pm

AMAZING COSTUME CONTEST

Main Stage

As the convention hall closes at 7pm, fans are ushered to the back for the main theatre room.  Here the best costumes will be on display, winning the prestigious BEST IN SHOW TROPHY.  This is a highlight not to be missed.  As a special Bonus, THE LIBRARY BARDS will be performing!

PROGRAMMING FOR SUNDAY, JUNE 25th

Convention Hall Open From 10AM-6PM

 

10:00am

KID’s DAY FREE SKETCHES

Convention Hall

Fan Favorite MAT NASTOS from DISNEY leads a room full of talented artists drawing free sketches for Kids 10 and under. Check the Artist Alley list for all names listed with ***.

–

McFARLANE AUTOGRAPH SESSION, GENERAL ADMISSION

Convention Hall- Booth 201

Todd McFarlane will spend Sunday with the fans, signing comics and toys, and gear, and just talkin’ comics, sports, and everything under the sun.  Again, Only 2 items will be allowed person, ages 13 and up. Please no CGC, or other witnessing/grading.

​

10:30am

STAN LEE PHOTO SESSION

Froggy’s Photo Area

Tickets are available at the Stan Lee Collectibles Booth

–

11:00am

ANIME ALL STARS: Pokemon’s Veronica Taylor, with Fan Favorites

Bryce Papenbrook Trina Nishimura, & Bonnie Gordon!

Main Stage

Fun times and hijinks occur when the stars of Pokemon, Lady Bug & Cat Noir, Attack on Titan, Sword Art Online, Street Fighter, and more get together.  All fans in attendance will receive a FREE Gift

​

KEVIN EASTMAN- TMNT AUTOGRAPH SESSION

Convention Hall- Booth 501

Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles Creator Kevin Eastman will be hosting a fan signing.  Each fan will receive *1* free signature with mini quick remark turtle.  All Ages, General Admission Welcome!

​

12:00pm

STAN LEE AUTOGRAPH SESSION

Stan Lee Collectibles Booth

Tickets available at the Booth, as well as Pre-Sale.

​

STREET FIGHTER vs FANS

Main Stage

Bonnie Gordon- the real life Rainbow Mika, and other Comic Con Favorites jump in to play Street Fighter V against the fans, on the big screen!  Fans will receive FREE GIFT

​

COMICS TUTORIAL with BRIAN HABERLIN

Panel Room A (Upstairs)

Brian Haberlin has done absolutely everything there is in the field of comic publishing.  he has created best selling characters with Witchblade, Founded one of the most influential color departments, worked as the Editor in chief at McFarlane, wrote chart topping stories, penciled issues, and more. In this session, get a peek behind the curtains…

​

1:00pm

ROB LIEFELD AUTOGRAPH SESSION

Convention Hall- Booth 515

CELEBRATE: STAR WARS Panel;

with Peter Mayhew, and Friends!

Main Stage

Chewbacca’s Peter Mayhew is featured on this special tribute panel celebrating the Star Wars Saga!

Autographs Session with Peter Mayhew and Ray Park will follow at Booth #450

​

CREATOR SPOTLIGHT: Gerry Conway

Panel Room A (Upstairs)

Gerry Conway is one of the most influential comic creators of the modern era.  He wrote the first PUNISHER story in AMAZING SPIDER-MAN, as well as the Controversial Death of Gwen Stacey. Long credits including a number of DC Creations as well including Power Girl, Vixen, Vibe, and more. Come and meet one of the all time greats!  Free Gift to all in attendance!

–

PONY HOUR OF POWER with TONY FLEECS

Convention Hall- Artist Alley Table C38

For 1 hour only, My Little Pony Artist Tony Fleecs draws sketches for Kids 10 and under.
Be there early as tickets go quickly!

–

2:00pm

TEENAGE MUTANT NINJA TURTLE TIME with Kevin Eastman

Main Stage

TMNT Creator Kevin Eastman showcases the secret origins of the Turtles, and talks with the fans about their everlasting popularity.  Also get a peek into what’s NEXT for our favorite heroes in a half shell!

–

SURVIVING AS AN INDY CREATOR

Panel Room A (Upstairs)

Writing. Drawing. Marketing. Publishing. All seems simple enough, but not really.  here, a group of veteran independent artists and creators walk you through their lives, pointing pitfalls, and career tips

–

ALL AGES COLORING CONTEST

Maximum Comics Carnival- Booth 301

Anyone can enter, with two age brackets.  Here fans can color their own comic book covers, with the winners receiving FREE CGC Grading for their creations!

–

3:00pm

AMAZING SPOTLIGHT: ROB LIEFELD

Main Stage

Deadpool, Cable, X-Force- Rob Liefeld is the most prolific creator of the modern era.  In this special session, Liefeld takes questions from the audience, and shares the origins of his creations from paper to the movie screen, and back.

–

HARRY POTTER’S SORTING HAT

Panel Room A (Upstairs)

Xander Jeanneret, best known from his time on King of the Nerds, as well as the Library Bards, conducts a fun fan meeting.  here Pop Culture is categorized through the world of Harry Potter, and the Sorting Hat!

–

STAN LEE AUTOGRAPH SESSION

Stan Lee Collectibles Booth

Tickets available at the Booth, as well as Pre-Sale.

–

4:00pm

AMAZING TEAM-UP SPECIAL- STAN LEE with TODD McFARLANE— NUFF SAID!

Main Stage

–

5:00pm

KID’s COSTUME PARADE

Main Stage

The best way to close out the fifth anniversary edition of Amazing Las Vegas Comic Con-
where EVERY ONE is a WINNER!

–

STAN LEE PHOTO SESSION- LAST CALL!

Froggy’s Photo Area

Tickets are available at the Stan Lee Collectibles Booth

–

5:30

STAN LEE AUTOGRAPH SESSION- LAST CALL!

Stan Lee Collectibles Booth

Tickets available at the Booth, as well as Pre-Sale.

Amazing Las Vegas Comic Con AfterParty!

With AMAZING LAS VEGAS COMIC CON- the Fun doesn’t need to stop when the convention hall closes each night of the show.  Introducing our newest partnership with HSC ENTERTAINMENT, and introducing our new Amazing After Party Headquarters at THE NERD!

The NERD is located in the heart of Downtown Las Vegas, located at Neonopolis 450 Freemont Street.  Phone Number:  (702) 405-0816.

The NERD bar/club features Bowling, Billiards, Video games, and a great atmosphere that is an extension of Comic Con Culture.  Here, Cosplay is encouraged, and rewarded! Join us as we celebrate 5 AMAZING years of Comic Con in this great city!

Each night, THE NERD is featuring a different themed afterparty for AMAZING LAS VEGAS COMIC CON.:

*Friday June 23 – The Eternal Slumber: Villainous Pajama Party

–   Not your Average pajama Jammy Jam-Lingerie, PJs, and Cosplay

–   Specialty Cocktails

–   Giveaways for the most wicked attendees

*Saturday June 24th – The Official Amazing Comic Con After Party 

Cosplay Contest. Awarding prizes for most Amazing Super Hero Cosplay, Sexiest Cosplay, and a Cosplayer Dance Off!

–   $1,000 in cash & prizes

–  Exclusive giveaways from Comics, toys, and more!

*Sunday June 25th – The Official Amazing Comic Con 

Industry Night: Theme Song Karaoke Contest.

Share your Convention Stories, adventures, finds, and conquests here

– Drink Specials for Comic Con Exhibitors

– Theme Song Karaoke where Cosplayers belt out their favorite themed tracks and the best renditions win cash & prizes!

When you come to The NERD, be sure to show off your AMAZING LAS VEGAS COMIC CON Wrist Bands, Lanyards, and Badges for great specials on drinks and more.  We hope you can be part of the ACTION with OFFICIAL AFTER PARTY!

Specialty Tickets for AMAZING AFTER PARTY @TheNERD are available through HSC Entertainment, and will be offered through their eventbrite service page: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/las-vegas-comic-con-official-after-parties-the-nerd-tickets-35340001897?aff=es2 and at the door of The NERD Each night.  Reserve your spot, so you can be a part of the action.  Bottle Service and Premium Packages are available.  For more information, info@hscentertainment.com

Visit the AFTER PARTY BOOTH featuring The NERD & HSC on the floor of AMAZING LAS VEGAS COMIC CON.  The main event takes place during the day at the Convention Center on June 23-24-25.

LOCATION & HOURS

THE AMAZING LAS VEGAS COMIC CONVENTION will be taking place at the Las Vegas Convention center, located at: 3150 Paradise Rd, Las Vegas, NV 89109. The convention will be held in Hall N1.

Main Floor Hours are as follows:

FRI 6/23: 3pm-8pm

SAT 6/24: 10am-7pm*

SUN 6/25: 10am-6pm

*On Saturday Night, the Costume Contest begins in the Main Theatre Room, at the close of the convention. No more transactions will take place, and folks will be moved off the floor. The Costume Contest should last until approximately 8:30pm

BE SURE TO FOLLOW AMAZING LAS VEGAS COMIC CON ONLINE!

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independent Comic

To Meet Demand, SPAWN #1 25th Anniversary DIRECTOR’S CUT to Receive FOIL ENCORE EDITION Reprint

by Jason Bennett
written by Jason Bennett

SPAWN DIRECTOR’S CUT A HIT
RUSHED BACK TO PRINT FOR FOIL ENCORE EDITION

Image Comics is pleased to announce that the special SPAWN #1: DIRECTOR’S CUT EDITION by comics legend and Image Comics President, Todd McFarlane, is being fast-tracked for a special reprint.

The cover C by McFarlane will receive a foil treatment and will be rushed back to print for SPAWN #1 25TH ANNIVERSARY DIRECTOR’S CUT FOIL ENCORE EDITION in order to keep up with overwhelming customer demand.

The DIRECTOR’S CUT includes the original artboards of SPAWN #1, commentary from McFarlane himself on each page, and bonus, never-before-seen art!

SPAWN #1 25TH ANNIVERSARY DIRECTOR’S CUT FOIL ENCORE EDITION
Writer: Todd McFarlane
Artist: Todd McFarlane
Item Code: APR178627
In Shops: Jun 28, 2017
SRP: $4.99

SPECIAL FOIL ENCORE EDITION!

2017 marks the 25th anniversary of SPAWN, created by TODD McFARLANE. Spawn debuted to the public, selling 1.7 million copies in 1992 and is on track to be the longest running independent comic ever.

Director’s Cut edition of SPAWN #1 includes:

– Original SPAWN #1 art boards
– Page commentary by TODD McFARLANE.      
– Vintage surprises from the early days of SPAWN

In the summer of 1992, famed comic book artist Todd McFarlane shook up the industry when he unleashed his very own comic creation, SPAWN to the world. Published by the newly formed Image Comics, the debut issue of SPAWN would also be the very first publication for the company co-founded by McFarlane himself. 2017 marks the 25th anniversary of SPAWN—which sold 1.7 million copies in its debut year and is currently on issue #275, keeping pace to become the longest running independent comic ever when it reaches issue #301.

The inaugural issue of SPAWN began the saga of Al Simmons who was once the U.S. government’s greatest soldier and most effective assassin. Mercilessly executed by his own men, Simmons was resurrected from the ashes of his own grave in a flawed agreement with the powers of darkness, he was reborn as a creature from the depths of Hell. Now Al Simmons is locked on Earth fighting the evil that is locked with him. Unable to save the love of his life, Wanda, he makes it his mission to save her daughter, Cyan.

The reprint, SPAWN #1 25TH ANNIVERSARY DIRECTOR’S CUT FOIL ENCORE EDITION (Diamond Code APR178627), will be available in comic stores on Wednesday, June 28th. The final order cutoff deadline for comics retailers is Monday, May 29th.

For more information about SPAWN fans can visit http://www.mcfarlane.com.

Image Comics: SPAWN #1 Returns w/ Director’s Cut by Todd McFarlane for 25th Anniversary

ABOUT TODD MCFARLANE PRODUCTIONS
Todd McFarlane, Image Comics President, is widely recognized as one of the most influential comic book creators of the last three decades, McFarlane is best known as the creator of Spawn. That title’s hugely popular 1992 debut sold an amazing 1.7 million copies – an unprecedented feat in independent comics. http://www.mcfarlane.com.

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*** info courtesy of Image Comics

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Image Comics: SPAWN #1 Returns w/ Director’s Cut by Todd McFarlane for 25th Anniversary

by Jason Bennett
written by Jason Bennett

SPAWN #1 IS REBORN WITH A
SPECIAL 25TH ANNIVERSARY DIRECTOR’S CUT EDITION,
COVER AND INTERIOR PAGES REVEALED

In celebration of the Hellspawn’s silver anniversary, a special Director’s Cut Edition of SPAWN #1 by comics legend and Image Comics President, Todd McFarlane, will hit stores this week. The Director’s Cut includes the original artboards of SPAWN #1, commentary from McFarlane himself on each page, and bonus, never-before-seen art.

The SPAWN #1 25th Anniversary Director’s Cut will feature original art board pages from Spawn issue #1, with three cover variations, showcasing art from McFarlane, Ashley Wood, and Clayton Crain. This special anniversary edition hits comic stores on Wednesday, May 17th, and will have a retail price of $4.99.

“Seeing all that came from Spawn is pretty incredible,” said McFarlane. “I enjoyed going back and working on SPAWN #1 again, and am excited to share the thought process of how Spawn came to be with the fans. They are the ones that really helped us reach 25 years and hopefully continue on for lots more!”

In the summer of 1992, famed comic book artist Todd McFarlane shook up the industry when he unleashed his very own comic creation, SPAWN to the world. Published by the newly formed Image Comics, the debut issue of SPAWN would also be the very first publication for the company co-founded by McFarlane himself. 2017 marks the 25th anniversary of SPAWN—which sold 1.7 million copies in its debut year and is currently on issue #275, keeping pace to become the longest running independent comic ever when it reaches issue #301.

The inaugural issue of SPAWN began the saga of Al Simmons who was once the U.S. government’s greatest soldier and most effective assassin. Mercilessly executed by his own men, Simmons was resurrected from the ashes of his own grave in a flawed agreement with the powers of darkness, he was reborn as a creature from the depths of Hell. Now Al Simmons is locked on Earth fighting the evil that is locked with him. Unable to save the love of his life, Wanda, he makes it his mission to save her daughter, Cyan.


For more information about SPAWN fans can visit http://www.mcfarlane.com.

ABOUT TODD MCFARLANE PRODUCTIONS
Todd McFarlane, Image Comics President, is widely recognized as one of the most influential comic book creators of the last three decades, McFarlane is best known as the creator of Spawn. That title’s hugely popular 1992 debut sold an amazing 1.7 million copies – an unprecedented feat in independent comics. http://www.mcfarlane.com.

.

.

.

*** info courtesy of Image Comics

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