Word Balloon Comic Books Podcast

Word Balloon Podcast Kevin Keller's Creator Dan Parent, Gerry Conway Mike Gold & Anthony Tollin On DC's Bronze Age

Fri, 17 May 2013 04:55:00 +0000

On this episode of Word Balloon, we talk with Archie Comics Writer/Artist Dan Parent , who created Kevin Keller, the New Kid In Riverdale, and after 3 nominations won the GLADD award this week. We talk about Kevin, and all the other great ideas that have made Archie Comics one of the most innovative publishers in comics.

Gerry Conway returns to talk about his days at DC Comics, from his first works starting in 1969, and his early 70's return that included a lot of work on Superman.

More Bronze Age DC talk with former colorist Anthony Tollin. Today Anthony is the publisher that is re-presenting the original stories of THE SHADOW, DOC SAVAGE, and other pulp heroes.Check out his catalog of books here.

We wrap up with Mike Gold, who was the editor of great books at First Comics like GRIMJACK JON SABLE AMERICAN FLAGG, and then brought a bunch of talent to DC in the 80's for runs on HAWKWORLD, GREEN ARROW, SUICIDE SQUAD , WASTELAND and more! We talk about Mike's pop culture website COMICMIX , which is also getting into the business to help creators make their comic books dreams into reality.

Word Balloon Podcast Kickstarter Success From Greg Rucka & Jamal Igle and Charles Soule's Busy Schedule

Fri, 10 May 2013 20:46:00 +0000

On this episode of Word Balloon, we check in with Greg Rucka , who with artist Rick Burchett and webmaster Eric Newsom have begun their Kickstarter campign for the Web comic Lady Sabre and The Pirates Of The Ineffable Aether . As of this posting they have exceeded their initial goal, but as Greg points out that means there are more books that can be published beyond the 192 page OGN. We also discuss Greg & Michael Lrk's new Image comic Lazarus, which begins in late June.

Then fresh from his FCBD siging in Chicago we catch up with Jamal Igle . His new female hero Molly bdanger also had a successful kickstarter campaign, and now the character made her print debut in Action Lab's FCBD book. We talk about how Jamal created the character, what he learned fom his KS experience, and what's next for both Jamal & Molly Danger.

Writer Charles Soule makes his Word Balloon debut, talking about his current work at DC (Swamp Thing & Red Lanterns) Marvel (Thunderbolts) and 2 exciting creator owned projects from Archaia (Strange Attractors out next week), and Oni Press (Letter 44 coming in October )

Word Balloon Podcast C2E2 Coverage and Kickstarter Success With Mark Schultz, Greg Pak & Jonathan Coulton

Fri, 03 May 2013 05:04:40 +0000

Our C2E2 coverage begins with floor interviews from Jimmy Palmiotti, Kyle Higgins, Doug Mahnke, and Scott Allie.

Then we check in with Mark Schultz who has a Kickstarter Campaign for a new collection THE ART OF MARK SCHULTZ CARBON and a hardcover edition of XENOZOIC.

More Kickstarter talk with Greg Pak & Jonathan Coulton as they combine their musical and comic book talents for the graphic novel CODE MONKEY SAVE WORLD.

We wrap up with the C2E2 Podcast panel featuring Wendi Friedman (Double Page Spread) Stevie Disme (Comic Book Queers) Chris Marshall ( Collected Comics Library ) Brian Pants Christman ( Comic Geek Speak ) , and Mike Pfeiffer ( Most People are DJs )

Word Balloon Podcast Daniel Way On The Return Of Gun Theory & His Spin On Thunderbolts

Fri, 26 Apr 2013 07:15:11 +0000

Writer Daniel Way returns to talk about his and artist Jon Proctor's Kickstarter campaign to finish their 2003 Crime comic Gun Theory.

We talk about the books 10 year journey to completion, and other creator owned ideas brewing in Way's mind, as his 10 year relationship with Marvel Comics is coming to a close.

We also discuss his run on Marvel's Thunderbolts. The Red Hulk Genral Thunderbolt Ross, leading a black opps para military group of Marvels who usually work alone. Elektra The Punisher Venom Deadpool and others.

Word Balloon Podcast Ethan Van Sciver Dan Jolley and Superman at 75 With Loeb Johns Morrison Ross Rucka and Busiek

Fri, 19 Apr 2013 05:57:23 +0000

On today's Word Balloon, Ethan Van Sciver talks about drawing BATMAN THE DARK KNIGHT. He also looks back at his GREEN LANTERN run, and his point of view on today's comic market.

Writer Dan Jolley discusses the return of his character BLOODHOUND once a 2004 DC book, now resurrected for Dark Horse with a new story starting in Dark Horse Presents #23 this month followed by a June trade collecting the original 12 issue run.

Finally we celebrate Superman's 75th anniversary with clips from past WB interviews featuring creators who've had great runs writing and drawing the man of steel. Grant Morrison, Geoff Johns, Alex Ross, Jeph Loeb, Greg Rucka and Kurt Busiek.

Word Balloon Podcast The Bendis Tapes Part 1 and Jeffery Brown Does Star Wars In Vader's Little Princess

Fri, 12 Apr 2013 18:40:00 +0000

On this episode of Word Balloon, it's part 1 of a new Bendis Tapes as writer Brian Michael Bendis joins us for a new look at All New X-Men, Uncanny X-Men, Guardians Of The Galaxy, Age Of Ultron, Ultimate Spider-Man and Powers Bureau.

Then Jeffery Brown talks about his Star Wars humor books Darth Vader And Son, and Vader's Littlee Princess. What would it have been like if Darth Vader raised his 2 children ? Plus Jeffery talks about his film Save The Date which debuted at Sundance last year, and is coming out on DVD Tuesday April 16th. He also has a new book coming out from Top Shelf in June.

Word Balloon Podcast Mike Carey"s Suicide Risk, Unwritten and Lucifer, Frank J Barbiere's 5 Ghosts and Drew Gaska on Space 1999 Planet Of The Apes and Buck Rodgers

Fri, 05 Apr 2013 18:55:00 +0000

3 Great discussions with 3 talented writers...

Mike Carey, back from Fables Con talks about the event along with his new BOOM! STUDIOS book SUICED RISK. We also discuss his Vertigo books THE UNWRITTEN and LUCIFER

Frank J. Barbiere talks about the debut of his new Image Comic FIVE GHOSTS

and we wrap up with Andrew Gaska who's writing fantastic stories in the worlds of SPACE 1999 PLANET OF THE APES and BUCK RODGERS IN THE 25th CENTURY for Archaia . Drew also shares stories of his studies at the School Of Visual Arts learning from comic masters like Denny O'Neil and Joe Orlando.

Word Balloon Podcast Mark Waid James and Jann Robinson Gabriel Hardman Corinna Bechko Paul Mounts and Stevie Dismie

Fri, 29 Mar 2013 21:22:52 +0000

Live from Aw Yeah Comics store in Skokie IL, Conversations with Mark Waid and James Robinson , Jann Robinson talks about creating the Johnny DC Kids line, bringing Art Baltazar & Franco and Mike Kunkel to DC, Paul Mounts talks about his Marvel work and his upcoming THRILLBENT digital comic, and Stevie Dismie From The COMIC BOOK QUEERS podcast gives his POV on what's going on in comics, including the Superman Orson Scott Card controversey.

Then Gabirel Hardman and Corinna Bechko discuss their new Star Wars Legacy book, featuring the debut of Solo, Han's distant descendent. The duo also talk about their Planet Of The Apes books for BOOM! Studios. We also manage to squeeze in some movie talk.

Word balloon Podcast Super Centric With Rags Morales Elliot S Maggin and Monkeybrain Comics Allison Baker and Chris Roberson

Fri, 22 Mar 2013 05:29:00 +0000

More Superman talk as the 75th anniversary year of the Big Blue's debut continues. Rags morales tells us what went into the design of Superman's new look for the New 52 Action Comics relaunch. We discuss Rags whole run on the book with Grant Morrison as the final arc comes to it's climax.

Then Elliot S! Maggin joins us to talk about his take and long history with the character that started in the 1970's and included two Superman novels LAST SON OF KRYPTON and MIRACLE MONDAY.

We wrap up checking in with Allison Baker & Chris Roberson , who give us an update on Monkeybrain Comics and the Digital Market.

00:00 - 120:55 Rags Morales

120:56 - 215:15 Elliot S Maggin

215:16- End Monkeybrain Comics Allison Baker and Chris Roberson

Word Balloon Podcast Judd Winick and Jai Nitz

Thu, 14 Mar 2013 06:24:00 +0000

Judd Winick joins us to talk about his whole comics career. From Frumpy the Clown and Barry ween, to his DC work on Batman, Red Hood, Catwoman and Batwing. We even talk a bit about his time on MTV's The Real World in the infancy of modern reality TV.

Then Jai Nitz previews his great new comic fro Dark Horse Dream Thief , which debuts this May.

Word Balloon Podcast Tom Taylor's Injustice and The Deep John Ostrander's Star Wars & Tim & Steve Seeley's Mini Comic Dreams

Thu, 07 Mar 2013 07:03:00 +0000

On this episode of Word Balloon, Tom taylor talks about his hit DC digital comic INJUSTICE which is one of the best Justice League stories in years. We also talk about his All Ages adventure comic from Gestalt THE DEEP. If you loved THE INCREDIBLES, you'll love THE DEEP.

John Ostrander is back to talk about his 2 current Star Wars comics for Dark Horse. The Spy adventures of Jayden Cross in AGENT OF THE EMPIRE and the beginings of the Star Wars Galaxy DAWN OF THE JEDI.

We wrap up with brothers Tim and Steve Seeley who have a new Kickstarter campaign with Steve's HOAX HUNTER collaborator Mike Moreci called MINI COMICS INCLUDED . An homage to the action figure mini comics sold in the 1980's, like HE-MAN , GI JOE & TRANSFORMERS.

James Robinson On The New Batman Of Earth-2 Dan Jurgens Talks Death Of Superman, Creator Owned Comic Tips from Robbi Rodgriguez and Ryan Browne

Tue, 26 Feb 2013 20:24:00 +0000

James Robinson takes us behind the scenes of Earth-2 as he re-imagines DC's golden aged heroes into a modern day post appocalyptic world where Superman batman & Wonder Woman were killed. He also gives us details on Earth-2's new Batman , who debuts in April's E-2 Annual.

Dan Jurgens talks about his current run on Firestorn, and the job of taking over books in the New 52 . We also look back at his 90's run on Superman, comparing the man of tomorrow with the New 52 version of the character. We also talk about passt events like Zero Hour Death OF Superman and more looks at today's comics market.

Then 2 creators give self publishuing tips. First, Robbi Rodgriguez talks about his Acid Western Frankie Get Your Gun, and the new ep soundtrack for the comic that's out today. He also previews his new Vertigo series Colider written by Simon Oliver.

Then Ryan Browne talks about his kickstarter campaign for a hardcover collection of his web comic God Hates Astronauts, and his upcoming Image work on Manhattan Projects with Jonathan Hickman and Bedlam with Nick Spenser.

John Romita Jr Talks Cap & Kick Ass-2 film, JT Krul On Aspen & Superman Beyond, Art & Franco's Kickstarter Success, and DC Veeps

Tue, 19 Feb 2013 19:12:00 +0000

On this episode of Word Balloon, we check in with John Romita Jr. His current run on CAPTAIN AMERICA takes the character into Dimension Z on a cosmic odyssey with writer Rick Remender. Romita talks about deconstructing the super patriot. Plus we get an update on Kick Ass-2, and John reminisces about his early days in the Marvel Bullpen.

Then JT Krul joins us to promote some new projects at Aspen Comics. A new young adult novel called Lost Spark and a new project to be announced in April. We look at where aspen Comics is today as the company celebrates its 10th anniversary. JT also talks about his current run on SUPERMAN BEYOND , one of the best Superman stories you're not reading.

Art Baltazar & Franco ! join us to talk about their Kickstarter Campaign for AW YEAH COMICS their new kids line of comics starting this spring. We also talk about their current run on SUPERMAN FAMILY ADVENTURES which wraps up in May with some plots twists never seen before in any Superman Comics.

Finally Bob Wayne And John Cunningham of DC Comics join us to talk about the January Sales numbers and the WTF cover promotion happening in April.

Hickman Talks Avengers, The Manhattan Projects & East Of West and Ball State U's Christy Blanch On The 1950's Downfall Of Lois Lane and Wonder Woman

Mon, 11 Feb 2013 23:56:00 +0000

On today's Word Balloon podcast, we catch up with Jonathan Hickman , who's taking the Avengers into new directions. New Avengers #3 had a startling finish and we talk about it. We also discuss his Image books The Manhattan Projects East Of West (which debuts next month) and the current status/fate of the espionage book Secrets .

Then Ball State University Lecturer Christy Blanch talks about her new MOOC (Massive Open Online Course) Gender Through Comics Books. The course will look at how men and women were depicted in comics from the 1930's to today. Blanch will have many guest speakers for the class, and the subjects discussed involve comic book history and a sharp look at characters like Lois Lane and Wonder Woman , who both started as capable strong rolemodels in the 1940's only to become lonley-heart single women desperate to marry their beaus in the 1950's. What happened? The male superhero stereotypical portrayals are also examined.

Ralph Bakshi News Kickstarter,Wizards 2 and Fire & Ice Remake? and Rick Remender's New Directions for Cap & Uncanny Avengers

Fri, 01 Feb 2013 20:19:00 +0000

Today on Word Balloon, legendary filmmaker Ralph Bakshi joins us to discuss his Kickstarter campaign for a new animated series called Last days Of Coney Island.

The series sees Bakshi return to familiar territory New York in the 1960's. Bakshi promises scenes and stories about police corruption, gangs, prostitutes and the enui of the decade as the country suffered urban decay and the losses of leaders like John and Robert Kennedy.

Bakshi also dorps news about making sequel scenes for some of his cult classic films after he completes The Last Days Project. He talks about making new sequences for his films Wizards Coonskin, and Heavy Traffic.

For yeras he's talked about a new sequence for the 1977 film Wizards, involving the character Peace saving a train boxcar filled with draves being taken to their death, ala the real life WW2 refugees taken by the Nazis to concentration camps. Says Bakshi " I love Peace...it's an incredible action sequence ...it's a violent scene... so (explitive) if you want to see Wizards 2 get Last Days going." Number 3, I'd do Coonskin 2 ..and then Heavy Traffic and what I'm saying is I can contunie to do more with these films, and release them on the net. " Bakshi would release the films on his website and a Bakshi channel he's developing.

Bakshi also updates us on the potential live action Robert Rodgriguez remake of his 1983 film Fire and Ice co-concieved by Frank Frazetta and written by Gerry Conway and Roy Thomas. Says Bakshi " I had spoke last week obver emails that he wants to shoot it next summer...I get a nice fee if he shoots it . He came to me and wanted to do it. He wants to make it live action which is fine, cause I'd never re do it. I said make it like Sin City and Frazetta (style) he's says he would ...He's says he's shooting it next summer, he's now shooting Sin City 2, so unless he feels the need to lie to me, that's his intention."
Bakshi also talks about his years at Terrytoon films which taught him the tricks to make animation at a cheaper cost. We also discuss his work on the Spider-Man Animated series, and his friendship with Frazetta.

Then we catch up with Rick Remender who's taking bold direction in his 2 Marvel Now! books Captain America and Uncanny Avengers. We talk about the ideas in the comics that have polarizing reactions from fans but Rick is quick to say these are long story arcs that will reveal themselves over time. Rick also talks about the delightful success the Fear Agent Onibus is having , and announces some new creator owned projects for 2013.

Roberson On Masks & MonkeyBrain Elliot On A1 Comics & Heavy Metal, and Jason Aaron Pt2

Tue, 29 Jan 2013 19:32:35 +0000

Chris Roberson talks about his Dynamite mini series Masks featuring a crossover of pulp heroes like The Shadow, The Green Hornet & Kato Zorro The Spider and more. We also talk about how Chris and his wife Allison Baker's digital imprint MonkeyBrain Comics has been doing since it's July 2012 launch. We talk about the state of the company, it's critical response and Chris's own MB book, Edison Rex.

Then Dave Elliot joins us to talk about his creator own plans for 2013. Chris has been editing and packaging recent issues of Heavy Metal (259 & 260) as a dress rehersal for the return of his A1 comics anthology, debuting this June from Titan Books.

Finally we wrap up our conversation with Jason aaron, with non comics subjects like TV Music and Sports.

Brad Meltzer, Bendis & Wacker Talk Guardians Of The Galaxy, David Marquez, & Jay Faerber

Fri, 18 Jan 2013 21:59:02 +0000

On this episode of Word Balloon, 4 great conversations about books that are on the racks and coming up in the weeks ahead.

Brad Meltzer joins us to discuss his latest novel The Fifth Assassin out this week. It explores the 4 US presidential asassinations from Lincoln to JFK and postulates a serial killer connection to them all.

Brad also has an update on his History Channel show Decoded and talks about an upcoming childrens book project he has collaborating with cartoonist Chris Elliopolis .

We go behind the scenes with a nother Marvel Now Press Conference as Brian Michael Bendis and Editor Steve Wacker discuss the new Guardians Of The Galaxy comic which debuts in February, drawn by Steve McNiven.

Artist David Marquez talk about jumping from Bendis's Ultimate Spider-Man to All New X-Men starting with this week's issue #6. We also discuss his new Archaia graphic novel with writer RJ Ryan called The Joyners In 3-D.

Finally, Jay Faerber is here to talk about his new digital comic for MonkeyBrain Comics that debuts next week. Denali with artist John Broglia . A post apocalyptic setting with a female warrior and her minions on a mission. The book is a one-shot pilot concept that could become an ongoing series. Jay also talks about the upcoming trade for his Image mini-series Point Of Impact and we talk about the current television season.

Jason Aaron pt 1 DC Veeps & Image Comics 2012 w Augie DeBlieck

Mon, 14 Jan 2013 22:49:00 +0000

On this episode of Word Balloon, Jason aaron starts a 2 part conversation about his current work on Thor God Of Thunder, Wolverine and The X-Men and the wrap ups tp his Vertigo series Scalped with RM Guerra, and HULK.

DC Vice presidents John Cunningham and Bob Wayne discuss DC's 2012 performance in the comic market.

And we wrap up with a year in review look at Image Comics in 2012 with Augie DeBlieck Jr, Pipeline columnist for Comic Book Resources.

Marvel Television Update With Jeph Loeb and The 2012 Comics Market pt 2 with Kiel Phegley

Sat, 05 Jan 2013 21:58:00 +0000

On this episode of Word Balloon we welcome back Jeph Loeb, and another edition of the Loeb Report.
Jeph talks about his new Nova Marvel Now comic series with Ed McGuiness, Loeb is also head of Marvel Television., and he tells us about the slate of animatied programs scheduled for 2013. From the second season of Ultimate Spider-Man to new series, like Hulk and The Agents Of S.M.A.S.H. and Avengers Assembled. There's news about new full length animated films and more Marvel Knights animated adaptations. Plus news on the live action front as the production of the SHIELD tv series rolls on.

Then we continue our look at the 2012 Comic Book Market. Kyle Phegley of Comic Book Resources joins us to talk about Marvel Comics in 2012. You'll hear about the end of runs from creators like Brian Bendis Jonathan Hickman Matt Fraction and Ed Brubaker, to the new creative directions on Marvel Now.

Comic Book Market 2012 review part 1 with Dan Slott And Vaneta Rogers

Fri, 28 Dec 2012 21:16:00 +0000

On this episode of Word Balloon Dan Slott joins us to talk about the Death Of Peter Parker in Amazing Spider-Man 700, wrapping up the series, and setting up Superior Spider-Man , which begins January 9th. Dan he process of creating the Dying Wish, and selling it to his editors and co-creators at Marvel. Dan explains why he chose to stay on Spider-Man, rather than take on a new title in the Marvel Now creative shift. We answer reader questions , and end the talk with some thoughts on the Doctor Who Christmas special.

Then we start a look back at The Comic Book Market of 2012 with a series of interviews with comic journalists who cover the various publishers. First up Vaneta Rogers of Newsarama looks back at DC's 2012. From the successes and failures of specific books and initiatives, to the current management moves on the Vertigo Imprint, to departing creators and the recent Gail Simone-Batgirl drama.

The Whistling Skull With Tony Harris and B Clay Moore Mike Norton on Revival and Nick Spencer Talks Secret Avengers

Fri, 21 Dec 2012 20:21:00 +0000

Time Code

00:00 - 132:44 Tony Harris & B Clay Moore talk about DC's The Whistling Skull

132:45 - 231:25 Mike Norton on Revival The Answer It Girl and Young Avengers

231:26- End Nick Spencer & Tom Breevort On Secret Avengers

DC VPs On Vertigo Changes, Kyle Higgins Talks Nightwing, DeConnick & Noto Talk Ghost, & Bendis on Uncanny X-Men

Fri, 14 Dec 2012 23:11:00 +0000

Karen Berger Says Bye To Vertigo, Haun Moore Grecian & Peck On Bad Karma, Hopeless On Avengers Arena, and Gillen ,McKelvie, and Sankovich Talk Young Avengers

Fri, 07 Dec 2012 19:15:02 +0000

Today on Word Balloon We begin with a 2008 interview with outgoing Vertigo Editor Karen Berger. At the time, Berger was starting her 15th year leading the groundbreaking imprint. The interview serves as a profile of her editorial philosophy and experimentation resulting in greenlighting many provocative comic books for the last 2 decades.
Then, we talk to members of the creative team behind the upcoming anthology Bad Karma, writers Jeremy Haun (The Leading Man, The Beauty ) B Clay Moore (Hawaiian Dick Battle Hymn JSA THE LIBERTY FILES: THE WHISTLING SKULL) Alex Grecian (Proof, The Yard) and Seth M Peck (X-Men, Wolverine:Fear Itself, 76:COOL) The Bad Karma volume will contain 5 comic book stories and supplelmental short stories and art featuring stand alone crime stories set in various time periods with subtle connecting themes and charcters that tell a larger stry about the Bad Karma Universe.

Jeremy Haun and Mike Tiserand's Chaos Agent
Alex Grecian and Phil Hester's Middleton
B Clay Moore and Chris Mitten's Old Dog
Seth M Peck And Tigh Walker's Hellbent
And all four writers collaborate on The Ninth Life Of Solomon Gunn, with art by Haun. Their Kickstarter campaign begins Monday.

We wrap up with 2 recent Marvel Now! Press conferences give us details on books that are shaking up the way superhero stories are told and made. First Dennis Hopeless gives us the lowdown on Avengers Arena . The series takes a page from the Battle Royale template of pitting 15 heroes against each other in deathmatches. Then, Kieron Gillen, Jamie McKelvie and editor Lauren Sankovich talk about Young Avengers. The former team from Image's PHONOGRAM (including co-art chores from Mike Norton and Colorist Matt Wilson) take the YA team in a new direction with Kid Loki joining the roster, and a dynamic layout of action scenes.

Mark Waid On Hulk Bob Greenberger On Star Trek Kieron Gillen On Iron Man and Steve Hovecke on Steampunk and Simonson

Fri, 30 Nov 2012 19:59:00 +0000

On today's Word Balloon, we check in with Mark Waid to talk about Daredevil and the debut of Indestructible Hulk from Marvel. Then Bob Greenberger discuses his latest book Star Trek: The Complete Unauthorized History, and goes behind the scenes with little known tales from the franchise's history. Steve Hoveke joins us to talk about his Kickstarter campaign for The Steamworld Chronicles , and talks about the digital production on Walter Simonson's Thor Artist Edition from IDW and the Titan Books re-release of the 1980 Alien comic adaptation written by Archie Goodwin and drawn by Simonson. Finally, to wrap up, Kieron Gillen conducts his Marvel Phone Press Conference about the upcoming 2nd arc of Iron Man, which starts this February.

Time Code

00:00-37:22 Mark Waid on Hulk & Daredevil

37:23- 130:51 Bob Greenberger on Star Trek

130:52-205:00 Steve Hoveke On The Steamworld Chronicles

205:01-End Kieron Gillen On Iron Man

Bendis On Age Of Ultron Andy Mangels On The Cartoon History Of Filmation

Fri, 23 Nov 2012 20:17:36 +0000

For The Black Friday Weekend, Word Balloon presents something to listen to through Local Biz Saturday, through Cyber Monday.

Brian Bendis conducts the Age Of Ultron Press Conference With To Brevort to give us details on Marvel's upcoming Spring Event.

Then author Andy Mangels shares Saturday Morning Cartoon stories about the Filmation company, and the creative force behind it, Lou Scheimer.

Brian Azzarello on Before Watchmen Wonder Woman and Spaceman DC Veeps Israel Idonije and Jesse Blaze Snider

Fri, 16 Nov 2012 22:35:00 +0000

On this episode of Word Balloon we welcome back Brian Azzarello who's become coming back to Word Balloon since the very first episode in May of 2005. We talk about his latest collaboration with Eduardo Risso, the Vertigo Sci-Fi mini series Spaceman , now collected in hardcover format. Brian explains the inspiration behind the story and explains why he doesn't watch reality television. Then we talk about his 2 Before Watchmen mini series Comedian with JG Jones and Rorschach with Lee Bermejo. Azzarello goes in-depth about his approach to both characters and the whole controversy behind the project. We wrap up talking about Brian's take on Wonder Woman with artists Cliff Chang and Tony Akins.

Then we catch up with DC executives Bob Wayne & John Cunningham to talk about the October Diamond order numbers. We also discuss the recent decisions behind ending Hellblazer and rebooting the book as a DCU title Constantine. Plus information on the upcoming details of the 2nd DC audience survey conducted earlier this year.

Next Chicago Bear Defensive Lineman Israel Idonije joins us to talk about his plans for a new comic book company and Superhero series called The Protectors. Idonije wrote the series bible and is collaborating with Ron Marz and Bart Sears on the comic. Izzy tells about his long love of comics and what he wants to do with the series. We also sneak in a little NFL talk.

Finally Jesse Blaze Snider joins the show to talk about his current comic work which fans of his Muppets and Toy Story comic book work for BOOM! Studios might think is a 180 degrees turn. Jesse has rebooted the Evil Ernie series for Dynamite and talks to us about his plans for the series, and redsigning the entire EE universe for a 21 century audience. Snider has great love for Ernie's creator Brian Pulido and all he accomplished in the Chaos Comics days, but felt the charcters needed some tweaks for todays fans, and to stand on their own, rather than old roles serving as support to Pulido's Lady Death series.

TIME CODE

BRIAN AZZARELLO   00:00 -   115:12
DC VEEPS             115:13 -   134:10
Israel Idonije       134:11 -    201:30
Jesse B Snider      201:30 - End Of Show

and to stand on their own, rather than old roles serving as support to Pulido's Lady Death series.

Lemire Talks Green Arrow Jason Aaron on Thor JM DeMatties On Augusta Wind and Tony Moore talks Deadpool

Fri, 09 Nov 2012 21:19:00 +0000

On this episode of Word Balloon we start things off with Jeff Lemire, who made news this week as DC announced him taking over Green Arrow .We also cover Jeff's work on Justice League Dark , Animal Man and his Top Shelf OGN The Underwater Welder.

Next writer JM Dematteis returns to discuss his new book from IDW Adventures Of Augusta Wind , an inventive new fantasy series drawn by Vasillis Gogtzilas . DeMatteis has a 16 page story coming up in Amazing Spider-Man 700 from Marvel, and previews some new animation projects coming up in 2013.

Jason Aaron is back in another Marvel Next Big Thing Press conference to explain the new direction for Thor: God Of Thunder. He's joined by artist Esad Ribic and editor Lauren Sankovich.

Finally Tony Moore talks about his involvement in a new convention he's setting up for Cinncinatti . He and local retailer Kendall Swafford explain their plans for the September 2013 show and their current kickstarter campaign . Then, Tony gives us details about his current work on Deadpool for Marvel, the upcoming Fear Agent Omnibus , and his thoughts on today's creator owned comics market.

Time Code

00:00 - 55:19 Jeff Lemire

55:20 - 149:23 JM DeMatties

149:24 - 236:43 Jason Aaron Esad Ribic & Laruen Sankovich

236:44 - The End Tony Moore

236:44 - End Tony Moore

Jason Latour Talks Winter Soldier and D'Jango Unchanied Rick Remender John Romita Jr Jason Aaron Nick Bradshaw and Art & Franco!

Fri, 02 Nov 2012 19:25:00 +0000

On this episode of Word Balloon Writer-Artist Jason Latour joins us to talk about his upcoming run on Marvel Comics Winter Soldier. Jason is taking over when Ed Brubaker leaves the series in late December, and talks about his collaboration with artist Nic Klien and his thoughts on the stage stage of Bucky Barnes life. Jason is also involved in DC's coming adaptation of D'Jango Unchanied , doing flashback sequences as a co-artist with RM Guerra and tells us about the exciting challenges of presenting the speghetti western in comic form. We also talk about a 2-part comic Latour is making with Mike Mignola and John Acurdi in the Hellboy/BPRD universe called Sledgehammer. It's a World War 2 story that Jason took on as artist, after the passing of John Severin earlier this year. This Dark Horse Project will debut in March.

Then 2 more Marvel NOW! press conferences. First Rick Remnder and John Romita Jr. discuss the November 21st debut of their Captain America run. Both are very excited about the new cosmic adventure they have layed out for the Star Spangled Avenger.
Then Jason Aaron Nick Bradshaw and Nick Lowe discuss the new direction for Wolverine And The X-Men that began this week with this week's issue #19.

Finally some speculation about Disney's aqusition of Lucas Films, and the announcement of a new Star Wars film in 2015, with Art Balazar and Franco! , the creative team behind Tiny Titans and Superman family Adventures. Art & Franco are die hard Lucas fans, and beside themselves with excitement postulating the possibilities.

Time Code

Jason Latour 00:00-101:50

Rick Remender & John Romita 101:51-156:20

Jason Aaron & Nick Bradshaw 156:21-252:21

Art Baltazar & Franco! 252:22-End Of Show

Brubaker Says Bye To Cap Simon Spurrier on X-Men Legacy and Brian Bendis On All New X-Men

Fri, 26 Oct 2012 20:28:00 +0000

On this episode of Word Balloon, we wrap up our marathon conversation with Ed Brubaker, just as his final issue of Captain America hits the stands. Ed has closing thoughts on his run, artist Steve Epting's incredible art for this last issue and teases what to expect in his last issues of Winter Soldier. Ed also made Hollywood headlines with two TV pilots getting picked up by NBC and FOX . We discuss both potential series plots and where they are in terms of development.

Then it's 2 Marvel Next Big Thing Press Conferences as creators and editors discuss the directions of several Marvel NOW! Titles.

First X-Men Legacy writer Simon Spurrier and Editor Daniel Ketchum tell us how mutant David Haller (Legion) finds his place in the X-Universe and deals with the death and legacy of his father, Professor Xavier.

Then writer Brian Bendis And Editor Nick Lowe gives the broad strokes of All New X-Men, as the original 5 X-Men time travel to face their future and the present status of the Marvel Universe.

NYCC Panel and Review With Gabriel Hardman Matt Singer Jim McCann Janet K Lee and Ben Blacker

Fri, 19 Oct 2012 20:56:00 +0000

On today's Word Balloon podcast we present The NYCC 2012 panel "Comics And Film When Fanboys Collide " Featuring IndieWire.com film critic Matt Singer, Comic Book-Film Storyboard Artist Gabriel Hardman (Inception, The Dark Knight Rises , Hulk, Planet Of The Apes-Cataclysm ) comic book artist Janet K Lee (Return Of The Dapper Men) and Dapper Men co-creator writer Jim McCann (Mind The Gap) After the panel, Lee also gives us the details of her new collaboration with McCann for Image Comics Lost Vegas.

Then television writer and host of The Nerdist Writers Panel Podcast Ben Blacker (Supernatural Supah Ninja) talks about his upcoming Marvel graphic novel Wolverine Season One co-written with his TV writing partner Ben Acker. Ben also promotes his Kickstarter campaign for a graphic novel anthology adaptation of the Thrilling Adventure Hour, a live LA comedy stage show/podcast that parodies old time radio dramas. The THA anthology will be published by Archaia and features new stories drawn by such comic book luminaries as Ben Edlund, Jackson Publik Tom Fowler, Dustin Weaver, Chris Moreno, Doc Shaner and more. Ben also gives us his observations about the current television season.

Un-Conventional With Mark Millar Jonathan Hickman DC Veeps And Ron Salas

Wed, 10 Oct 2012 07:31:28 +0000

On this episode of Word Balloon, we present an un-conventonial collection of conversations revolving around subjects likely discussed at this weekend's New York Comic -Con.

First Mark Millar tells us about his new gig as Creative Consultant for 20th Century Fox's future Marvel Films. We also talk about his books Super Crooks and The Secret Service.

Next DC Vice Presidents John Cunningham and Bob Wayne talk about the September Direct Market numbers and presentations they'll be moderating at the NYCC.

Then we listen in on another Marvel press conference featuring writer Jonathan Hickman Tom Brevoort and Axel Alonso talking about Hickman's take over of the Marvel Now! titles Avengers and New Avengers . Hickman discusses the rosters and future plot subjects.

Finally artist Ron Salas talks about his involvement in the upcoming anthology True Patriot featuring new superhero stories created by Canadian Comic creators . The book has a crowd funing drive happening at indiegogo .

00:00 - 42:55 Mark Millar On Film News Supper Crooks & The Secret Service

42:56 - 57:03 Bob Wayne John Cunningham DC Comics

57:04 - 137:57 Hickman Avengers Press Conference

137:58 - End Ron Salas on True Patriot

Marvel Exit Interview With Ed Brubaker and Marvel Entrance Interview With Brian Posehn and Gerry Duggan

Fri, 05 Oct 2012 18:10:26 +0000

We continue our marathon conversation with Ed Brubaker about his upcomig departure from monthly Marvel Comics. Bru looks back at his lengthy run on Captain America and the creation of the Winter soldier, plus we look back at some of his Batman work at DC including both monthlies and the revamp of Catwoman.

Then we welcome comedians Brian Posehn and Gerry Duggan as they start their run writing Deadpool next month as part of Marvel Now! They talk about collaborating with interior artist Tony Moore and cover artist Geof Darrow. The guys are longtime comic fans and they gush about this oppurtunity to do a lengthy run on The Merc with A Mouth. Although they promise humor in the book, they also can't wait for readers to check out their action character and plot writing chops for the series.

We also discuss the convergence of alternative comedy and the comic book culture. From Meltdown Comics evolution into a full time LA comedy club, to Posehn and Patton Oswalt's Comedy Central pilot Super Nerds which also featured Duggan and Sarah Silverman.

Comic Book Business Report With Ed Brubaker Sam Humphries and Josh Blaylock

Fri, 28 Sep 2012 19:40:00 +0000

Today on Word Balloon more conversations about the how comic book business is changing and what factors new creators should consider as they try to put their books in the hands of consumers.

Ed Brubaker is back for part 2 of our marathon discussion , and he gives the reasons why he left DC to join Marvel in an exclusive deal, that inlcuded taking advantage of the ICON imprint , which led to books like Criminal and Incognito.

Sam Humphries talks about the new status quo in The Ultimates #16, as Captain America becomes president of the United States and takes a hands on approach to settling the current US Civil Wars. We also take a look at his BOOM! Studios sci-fi series Higher Earth.

In the pre-tablet world, My Space was a big player in the digital comics arena , and Humphries as manager of content developement was a big part of My Space Comics. He tells us about the heyday of the social media site, specific promotions involving Dark Horse Presents BOOM! Studios and Marvel, and what lessons can be learned from that digital initiative comparing it today's marketplace.

Josh Baylock , Publisher of Devils Due Publishing talks about his imprint's transformation into a "turn-key" operation set up to provide not only publsihing but other direct marketing services for a comics creator who wants to self publish.
He has a current Kickstarter project for the web comic western Plume by K Lynn Smith , and talks about how crowd funding has impacted the comic businesss.

Blaylock and DDP skyrocketed to audience awareness in the early 2000's when he got the GI JOE license to publish new comics from Hasbro and his DDP line expanded with more original titles along side the JOE books. He also created an early digital comic market called Pull Box Online , but factors from the US economic crash of 2008-09 including the eventual decline of bookstores like Borders left Blaylock with a list of creditors and creators who had to come to terms regarding DDP's outstanding debts. Blaylock says " It was combination of a lot of things. I can't go into details but I finally settled a lot of that stuff that allowed us to get back into distribution ."

Josh also wrote a book in 2006, How To Self Publish Comics , Not Just Create Them, and would hold convention seminars helping new creators get started in the field . The business has certainly changed since then, and Josh has updated the book for new print and digital editions debuting in October. He shares some of the revisions to the book and his observations on what today's challenges are for aspiring creators.

Image Comic Book Revolution With Ed Brubaker Michael Moreci and Steve Seeley

Fri, 21 Sep 2012 18:39:36 +0000

On this epiode of Word Balloon we begin a 3 part conversation with Ed Brubaker, who made it official a few weeks ago that he was leaving Marvel Comics to focus on film and tV work and his Image Comic Fatale with longtime collaborator Sean Phillips. In part 1 we talk about the first seven issues of Fatale, and some of the subjects Ed is exploring. He tells us why he chose the flashback time periods of the story, and what they represent. We also begin our discussion of where creator owned books are in today's comic market?

We continue the theme with our next guests writers Michael Moreci and Steve Seeley, as they discuss their Image book Hoax Hunters. Mike and Steve talk about their unique set of Characters starting with the strangest astronaut ever called Murder.

It's interesting and educational to explore the current comic business through the Image prisim . We'll compare the 2 situations with the high selling success of Brubaker & Phillips Fatale and the strong but smaller sales performance of Hoax Hunters . Both books are enjoying out of the gate popularity, but is everybody quitting their day jobs?

Bendis Talks A v X 11 and The Death Of...DC Veeps and Lauren Sankovitch

Fri, 14 Sep 2012 06:06:39 +0000

On this episode of Word Balloon we not only wrap up the latest edition of the Bendis Tapes, we also talk to Brian one day after the shocking events of Avengers Vs X-Men 11. We talk about the story beats of the issue, and the ramifications of the issue's climax.

Check the Time Code below to avoid the spoiler details if you haven't read the issue yet, and have dodged the massive news coverage.

Then it's time for our monthly conversation with Bob Wayne and John Cunningham from DC Comics. We look back at the first year of "The New 52"

We wrap up with Marvel Editor Lauren Sankovitch who talks about the Marvel Now books she oversees like Captain America, Winter Soldier, Thor God Of Thunder, Journey Into Mystery and more. Lauren talks about the new creators on some of the books and new directions for the stoy arcs. We also talk about how Marvel's AR app is changing the way editors map out stories.

TIME CODE

00:00-31:58 Bendis Talks AvX 11 (SPOILER WARNING)

31:58-1:18:10 Bendis Tapes Part 3

1:18:11-1:33:24 DC Comics Bob Wayne and John Cunnigham

1:33:25- End Of Show Marvel Editor Lauren Sankovitch

Bendis Tapes Pt2 Chirs Burnham on Batman INC and Uncanny Avengers Talk With Rick Remender

Fri, 07 Sep 2012 21:05:00 +0000

On this episode of Word Balloon we continue the latest edition of the Bendis Tapes . In Part 2, Bendis talks about the editorial process behind marvel's monthly double shipping issues. We discuss the gripes adult views have with the Ultimate Spider-Man Disney XD cartoon, then go into a behind the scenes look at the writers room. Brian addresses the difficulty of creating new stand alone characters for the big two that find success . He hypes Daredevil End Of Days, and All New X-Men . Brian also talks about the likely scrutiny that his X-Men run will receive from hardcore X-Fans . We also talk about Bendis's recent year run on Moon Knight with Alex Maleve and it's role as a prequel to his upcoming Ultron War story.

Then Chris Burnham sits down for a live interview done at Aw Yeah Comics Store in Skokie, IL. We talk about his run on Batman Incorporated , and how he approaches the character.

Finally we listen in on last week's Marvel Next Big Thing Press Conference as Rick Remender and Tom Brevort breakdown what to expect from Uncanny Avengers.

Bendis Tapes Pt 1 Brazilian Color Artists Rod Reis Cris Peter and Marcello Enrique and Kathryn Immonen and Lauren Sankovich

Thu, 30 Aug 2012 20:18:28 +0000

Just in time for the Holiday Weekend, Word Balloon presents this convention for your ears, with great guests and conversation.

We start a new Bendis Tapes as Brian Michael bendis answeres more questions from his JINXWORLD Message Board and gives us insight on his upcoming run on the X-Men. We also discuss other facets of Marvel Now, his wrap up to the avenger books, what's going on in Ultimate Spider Man & Spider-Men , and more.

Then it's time for an edition of Word Balloon Internationale as we speak to several color artists from Brazil. Rod Reis (Aquaman Nightwing) Cris Peter (Casssanova FF Captain America) and Marcello Enriquie (I Vampire) talk about their art experiences on their mainstream books and other projects.

Finally, we present a recent Marvel press conference on Kathryn Immonen's new gig as writer for Journey Into Mystery starting this November. Kathryn is joined by Editor Lauren Sankovich, and they both field reporter questions about the new direction of the book as Sif takes the spotlight .

Bill Willingham Spins Some Fables, Gene Ha, and Tiz De Santis On Toronto Fan Expo

Thu, 23 Aug 2012 19:36:00 +0000

On this episode Of Word Balloon. We welcome back Bill Willingham, who tells why this past San Diego Con is likely his last for a while. He's putting together a fantasy genre based convention in Minnesota, and tell us all about it. We also get Bill's perspective of the current creator owned era, and how he sees the differences between today, and the 80's black and white boom, or the 90's Image Revolution. Of course we talk about what's coming up in Fables and Fairest, and his new Fables OGN Werewolves Of The Heartland.

Artist Gene Ha tells us about his upcoming issues in Fables, and we look back at some of his 2011 work, including the Flashpoint Superman mini series and the New 52 Justice League.

We wrap up with Tiziano DeSantis, the Comics Talent Coordinator for Toronto's Fan Expo, happening this weekend. Tiz gives us an idea of what panels they'll be presenting. We also take a moment to talk about the passing of Joe Kubert and his legacy in Comics.

Breaking Comics News With Greg Rucka Kelly Sue Deconick DC Veeps and Joshua Fialkov

Wed, 15 Aug 2012 19:31:41 +0000

Matt Fraction Fireside Talks Hawkeye Cassanova and Ben Edlund On Supernatural and The Tick

Fri, 03 Aug 2012 20:09:18 +0000

Creator Owned Comic Books With Steve Niles Tony Harris and Stuart Moore

Fri, 27 Jul 2012 19:02:45 +0000

Comic-Con Wrap Up With Art Baltazar and Mike Norton and the 2012 SDCC Podcast Panel

Fri, 20 Jul 2012 20:09:06 +0000

On this episode of Word Balloon artists Art Baltazar and Mike Norton sit down for a casual conversation about last week's convention. We talk to Mike about wwinning his first ever eisner for his digital comic Battlepug, which is being collected by Dark Horse Comics. Art shares some celeberty sightings and the usual crazy activity around his booth on the Con Floor.

Then we present this year's comic book podcasting panel featuring Josh Flanagan (ifanboy) Pat Loika (Loikamania) Jimmy Aquino (Comic News Insider) Bob Bretal (Comic Book Page) Brian "Pants" Christman (Comic Geek Speak) , and Cameron Hatheway (Cammy's Comics Corner) .

Word Balloon Unconventional With DC Veeps Daredevil End Of Days and P Craig Russell

Wed, 11 Jul 2012 05:49:00 +0000

To get you into that San Diego Comic Con mood, Word Balloon presents another Un-Conventional episode, featuring virtual panels with the type of information and conversation you'd get by attending a convention.

First DC vice presidents Bob Wayne and John Cunningham discuss the June store numbers from Diamond, and preview the salte of DC and Time Warner panels.

Then we attend this past Monday's Daredevil End Of Days press conference. Creators Brian Michael Bendis, David Mack Klaus Joanson and Bill Sienkiewicz.

Finally A Master Class Session With P Craig Russell,who has an informative Kickstarter campiagn to teach aspiring artists about graphic storytelling. We aslo talk about his latest Neil Gaiman adaptation a two volume graphic noveliazation of The Graveyard Book, featuring an all star line up of comic book artists like Tony Harris Kevin Nowland Jill Thompson and others.

PBS Comic Book Documentary Never Ending Battle & MonkeyBrain Digital Comics With Roberson & Baker

Fri, 06 Jul 2012 20:58:41 +0000

Comic Book Business With Amanda Conner Author Rob Salkowitz and Marvel's Daredevil Team Waid Rivera Samnee Allred and Wacker

Thu, 28 Jun 2012 18:47:08 +0000

On this episode of Word Balloon, Amanda Conner joins us to talk about her Before Watchmen series Silk Spectre co-written and drawn by Darwyn Cooke. We also talk about Amanda's work on DC's digital Ame Comi Girls Wonder Woman.

Author Rob Salkowitz discusses his new book Comic=-Con and the Business Of Pop Culture from McGraw-Hill. Rob is a business futurist and a hard core comics fan who uses the prisim of Comic-Con to explore where the comic business is today. He also give ssveral scenarios of what the future may hold for publishers retailers creators and consumers as we enter the digital age of comics.

Finally we listen in to last week's Marvel telephone press conference announcing changes for the Daredevil creator line-up. Mark Waid Paulo Rivera, Chris Samnee Mike Allred and Editor Steve Wacker give us the details.

Comic Book Marriages With Mike Perkins, Matt Fraction Fireside Part 2 and Captain Action's Rebirth with Ed Catto

Wed, 20 Jun 2012 18:01:00 +0000

First up Mike Perkins talks about drawing Astonishing X-Men. today's issue #51 is a classic marvel marriage moment that has cracked thru to the mainstream media world. mike tells us what's like to draw this kind of major release when everyone is looking over his shoulder. Perkins also talk about finishing the art choress on the adaptation of Stephen King's The Stand comic seres, and what it was like during the title's four year run, catering to the King-Bookstore patrons as well as the comics buying direct market.

Then we wrap up the latest Matt Fraction Fireside Chat. This week Matt give 's us his point of view on The Avenger's film impact on this summer's other upcoming superhero films. Fraction wonders if the lighter action tone of The Avengers will hurt the mainstream audience reaction to The Dark Knight Rises ?

Finally Ed Catto of The Bonfire Agency joins us. Catto is part of the team that is reviving the Captain Action franchise through new toys and the upcoming Dynamite comic book series . Catto also talks about Bonfire, and some of the ways he's bringing advertisers to the consumers of genre fiction and the geek market.

Matt Fraction pt 1 Comic Book Sales Numbers With DC Veeps Wayne and Cunningham and Star Trek Dr Who talk With JK Woodward

Thu, 14 Jun 2012 18:29:00 +0000

On this edition of Word Balloon, we talk with DC vice presidents Bob Wayne and John Cunningham about the Diamond Top 10 sales numbers of comic books from May, plus the first reactions to DC's 2nd Wave titles, Before Watchmen and further details about the Zero Issues and 3rd Wave of new DC books coming in September.

Then we start a 2 part Matt Fraction Fireside Chat. Matt shares insight on the current and future storylines of Thor, Iron Man and The Defenders. There are trippy dreamwalking moments and self realization ideas happening in all three books, but Fraction is adressing the same plot devices in very different ways in each of these titles.

Finally JK Woodward joins us to talk all things Trek and Whovian, as we discuss IDW's Star Trek TNG-Doctor Who crossover mini series.

Dave Gibbons Rucka Debrief Pt 2 and First X-Men With Neal Adams and Christos Gage

Tue, 05 Jun 2012 06:19:00 +0000

On this episode of Word Balloon, Dave Gibbons is back to talk about The Secret Service, his new Icon mini series with Mark Millar. Of course this being the debut week of the Before Watchemn prequels, we ask Dave to comment on the ongoing debate over whether these projects should happen or not. We also talk about bwhere creator owned projects are in the post Watchemen era, and get an idea of some of Gibbons future digital plans.

Greg Rucka finishes the latest Rucka Debrief, with talks about The Punisher, his steampunk swahsbickling web comic Lady Sabre and the Pirates Of The Ineffable Aether with artist Rich Burchett , plus more classic detective debate about the many film and tv versions of Sherlock Holmes and Philip Marlowe.

Finaly we take you inside a recent Marvel telephone press conference featuring Christos Gage and Neal Adams talking about their First X-Men mini series debuting this August. Adams and Gage field questions about this continuity implant that tells the earliest tales of Charles Xavier's attempt to save Mutants in the years before founding his school for the gifted. The creators taklk about their takes on Magneto Wolverine Sabretooth, and several new charcters created for the series.

The Rucka Debrief Part 1 Jeff Parker and Sal Abbinanti

Wed, 30 May 2012 05:15:00 +0000

On this episode of Word Balloon, Greg Rucka returns for the start pf a new 2 part Rucka debrief. In part one, we talk about Rucka's latest novel ALPHA from Mulholland Books. Greg introduces a new action hero Jad Bell, and his challenge is a terrorist threat in a huge theme park with personal and professional stakes on the line. Greg talks about his world building here and creating this new hero who differs in many ways from Greg's past comic and novel heroes. (part 2 will cover Greg's comic doings)

Jeff Parker is back to talk about the transition form his run on Thunderbolts to the title becoming Dark Avengers with T-Bolt artists Kev Walker and Declan Shalvey . Parker's run on the Red Hulk continues with Haunted Hulk, featuring Red exploring the monster corner of the Marvel U. We also talk about Bucko Jeff and Erika Moen's webcomic, soon to be released in a September trade collection by Dark Horse Comics. Jeff's been busy with a diverse run of short works too like his work with Colleen Coover in CREEPY #8, an upcoming DC digital Batman story with Gabe Hardman, and a short feature in the BOOM! Planet Of The Apes Annual in August.

Finally comic artist Sal Abbinanti is back to promote a live panel he'll be doing to benefit Chicago Public Radio this weekend. The subject: Have Hollywood and TV drastically changed the mythologies behind Superhero origins?

Avengers Film and TV Talk With Jeph Loeb; Dean Haspiel and Seth Kushner; and Steve Bryant

Wed, 23 May 2012 16:12:24 +0000

On This episode of Word Balloon Jeph Loeb is back with a new edition of The Loeb Report. The Vice president Of Marvel TV is here to talk about the 1-hour block of Ultimate Spider-Man and Avengers Earth’s Mightiest heroes on Disney XD. Loeb talks about the obvious positive impact THE AVENGERS film has had on the TV side of Marvel’s live action shows in development including THE HULK and addresses the rumors that the Avengers current cartoon might be cancelled after this current season.

Then Dean Haspiel and Seth Kushner return to Word Balloon to discuss the TRIP CITY website, a multimedia hub for many Brooklyn creative artists. Dean has been co-hosting the Trip City podcast featuring peer-to-peer conversations between comic book creators.

Seth contributes to the podcast and site, but also here to talk about his photographic work in the new comics history book Leaping Tall Buildings written by Christopher Irving. He and Kushner created an excellent look at creators from golden age stalwarts like Joe Simon Irwin Hassen and Jerry Robinson, to today’s web comic innovators. From mainstream to underground no era or genre of comics is ignored, and the profiles presented by Irving and Kushner are unparalled.

Kushner also talks about his

Haspiel also talks about current projects like making the 6 page digital comic for THE DOORS mobile app, which depicts the band’s official point of view of the infamous Miami concert of March 1^st, 1969. Dean also has a Godzilla Legends issue this month from IDW written by Bobby Kurnow, and a quirky upcoming 8 page Spider-Man story for Marvel later this year.

The guys also discuss the Before Watchmen- Jack Kirby Avengers controversies, digital comics and more.

Finally Steve Bryant joins us to discuss his breaking good news as BOOM! Studios announced his appointment as the artist on their new ongoing Steed and Mrs. Peel series starting with a zero issue in August written by Mark Waid. Bryant is also preparing an Athena Voltaire Omnibus volume for Dark Horse’s

The Comic Books Comeback Of Mike Oeming and DC VPs

Mon, 14 May 2012 04:34:19 +0000

The Comic Book History Of Comics With Fred Van Lente and Shooters OGN With Eric Trautmann Brandon Jerwa and Steve Lieber

Thu, 03 May 2012 22:20:00 +0000

On this episode of Word Balloon Fred Van Lente discusses the IDW release of The Comic Book History Of Comics, written by Fred and drawn by Ryan Dunleavy . The talk leads to the debate about fine artist Roy Lichenstien' s pop art paintings that were based on real comic book panels. Were these painting fine art celebrating design , like Andy Warhol's Campbell's Soup Can paintings, or outright plagiarizing comic artists like Mike Sekowsky and Russ Heath? Van Lente is also part of the Valiant Comics revival writing Archer and Armstrong coming out in August. We also talk about Fred's upcoming Hulk work, on the HULK Season One OGN with Tom Fowler , to this month's HULK SMASH #5 with Mike Oeming.

Then the team behind Vertigo's new war OGN Shooters writers Eric Trautmann Brandon Jerwa and artist Steve Lieber join us to talk about the complicated life of a corporate contract soldier working for the US in current forgien conflicts. It's a very personal story for Trautmann, who based the story on his brother-in-law Dave. he trio talk about the book, and discuss their other recent projects including Jerwa's comic book film documentary, he and Trautmann's Dynamite books like Flash Gordon and Vamperella, and Lieber talks about the piracy experience he and Jeff Parker had with their Oni press mini series Underground.

Can Rob Liefeld Save These 3 DC Comic Books

Thu, 26 Apr 2012 20:41:00 +0000

On this episode of Word Balloon, Rob Liefeld returns to talk about 3 DC titles he's taking over in May, with the challenge of resurecting interest and sales. They are The Savage Hawkman with art chorse by Joe Benitez, Deathstroke, and Grifter with scripting help from Frank Tieri.

Liefeld talks about what his plans are for all three titles, including Deathstroke's hunt for the space criminal Lobo, which will introduce the character in the new 52 DC continutiy. Liefeld promises that this Lobo will not be the cartoony parody charcter he was in previous stories.

We also talk about the critical aclaim his charcaters are getting in his revamped Extreme line of book.s like Prophet, Supreme, and Glory. Also, Rob gives his views on writing decompressed stories in today's comic book market

The 1979 Lost Comic Books Documentary Panel at C2E2

Tue, 17 Apr 2012 05:35:00 +0000

Live From last weekend's C2E2 Word Balloon presents the first panel exploring the 1979 Lost Comic Book Documentary. You'll hear audio from the documentary which gives a great behind the scenes look at the offices of DC and Marvel. Guests on the panel were Mike Gold former editor and DC Comics public relations man when the documentary was made, and artist Douglas Klauba (The Phantom, Project Superpowers) who discovered the film.

In the documentary, you'll hear details about the Superman Vs Muhammed Ali book, Jim Steranko gives his point of view on crime comics while explaining his art process making the 1976 graphic novel CHANDLER:RED TIDE, Stan Lee and Archie Goodwin go over designs on a new Marvel Comics Hero, The Human Fly, Trevor Von Eden and editor Jack Harris prepare the first issue of Black Lightning and more.

Plus in the panel's q&a session Mike shares stories about Joe Kubert, Neal Adams, Joe Orlando, Steve Ditko and other bronze age memories.

Then podcasters Jim Seguland (Raging Bulletts) and Brian "Pants" Christman (Comic Geek Speak) join us for a quick update on their shows.

Comic Books C-List Heroes With The DC Veeps Wayne and Cunningham, Kelly Sue DeConnick, and Solo Talks With Art Baltazar and Franco

Wed, 11 Apr 2012 06:54:47 +0000

The plight of creating an ongoing series featuring 2nd and 3rd tier heroes is discussed on this episode of Word Balloon.

First DC Vice presidents Bob Wayne and John Cunningham join us to discuss the monthly numbers, but also talk about the re-tooling of some of DC's New 52 titles that are seeing creative changes. Will thye be enough to boost sales?

Then writer Kelly Sue DeConnick talks about her new series Captain Marvel. Carol Danvers is getting a promotion, and a new monthly series, but the life expectancy for Marvel books that don't feature Spider-Man Wolverine isn't promising. Deconnick discusses the challenge of starting this type of book, plus we talk about her new Dark Horse series with Phil Noto Ghost, and a new Castle OGN from Marvel coming this fall.

Then we wrap up with solo talks featuring Art Baltazar and Franco. The duo has just wrapped up the Tiniy Titans series with issue 50, and begin their new kids comic Superman Family Adventures with a preview that was featured in that last TT issue . The guys are notorious for clowning when their together, but I forced them to talk seperatley to get a more serious look at the wrap up of their New York Times best selling series, and the challenge of doing a new all ages title featuring Superman.

Crime Comic Books And The Digital Market With Mark Waid Ed Brubaker Greg Rucka Tim Seeley and Mike Norton

Tue, 03 Apr 2012 00:34:00 +0000

On this edition of Word Balloon, we continue to talk with creators who are experimenting with creator owned ideas in print and the digital markets .

First Mark Waid joins us to talk about his foray into the digital comic relm. His blog, markwaid.com launched today to be an open forum showing his process and ideas on his approach to comic storytelling on this platform. You can download his first digital pdf LUTHER Also Mark reveals his plans to fund the venture, which includes putting his huge comic book collection up for sale that goes back to the 1950's. We talk about some of the unique items in his collection and how you can purchase some of these books.

Then direct from last weekend's ECCC convention, a crime comics panel featuring Ed Brubaker and Greg Rucka, who start with their crime story influences , and talk a lot about their creation of the DC comic Gotham Central. Plus Ed talks about his current success with the Image book FATALE and Greg previews his next spy novel ALPHA due out in May.

Finally direct from their Four Star Studio, Tim Seeley and Mike Norton talk about their new Image series Revival , which they describe as a Farm Noir tale. Tim updates us on his other Image books Hack-Slash, Bloodstrike and Top Cow's Witchblade, while Mike tells us about the plan to collect his web comic Battle Pug as a trade collection in July, from Dark Horse.

Four Star Studio has been pulishing their digital comics Double Feature for about a year. 2 8 page stories for 99 cents in various genres. The guys tell us how that venture has gone so far.

Time Code      00:00 - 48:55                    Mark Waid
                            48:56 - 1:44:11                 ECCC Crime Comics Panel
                                                                          With Ed Brubaker and Greg Rucka
                           144:12- End Of Show      Tim Seeley & Mike Norton

Comic Books Fast Track With Jonathan Hickman and Francis Manapul

Mon, 26 Mar 2012 20:27:00 +0000

On this episode of Word Balloon, Jonathan Hickman is back to tell us about the wrap up to his epic 3 year story in Fantastic Four. He's not done with the Four, or the Future Foundation (FF), and tells us what to expect in the months to come. You'll hear about his writing chores on the upcoming Avengers VS X-Men projects, and what it was like co writing with his Architect buddies Brian bendis Jason Aaron Ed Brubaker and Matt Fraction We also discuss SHIELD and his run on The Ultimates.

Then we go in depth on Jonathan's creator owned books past and present at Image Comics. From the debut issue of The Manhattan Projects drawn by Nick Pitarra to next month's start of the spy series Secret with artist Ryan Bodenheim. Hickman also made a big splash at Comixology releasing all of his earlier creator owned works as digital products, including one big bundle of all 5 works The Nightly News, PAX ROMANA, Red Mass From Mars, Transhuman and The Red Wing . He gives us all the details in his decision to release them now, and in the formats he chose .

Then, artist writer Francis Manapul is back to tell us what's been happening in the pages of The Flash for DC Comics. We talk about his unique art choices to display the hero's super speed, and The Flash's point of view when faced with the choices of how to stop a crime or disaster from happening. Francis also talks about his writing process with his co-writer and colorist Brian Buccelatto, and what it's like to have put The Flash back in the top 10 of comics ordered by direct market stores.

Jeff Lemire On Animal Man and Free Comic Book Day Talk w Nunzio DeFilippis and Christina Weir

Mon, 19 Mar 2012 20:48:00 +0000

On this edition of Word Balloon writer Jeff Lemire talks about his work on current and upcoming comics. You’ll hear about his current runs on DC’s Animal Man and Frankenstein Agent Of SHADE . Jeff tells us about the excitement coming in his AM/Swamp Thing crossover with Scott Snyder, and why he’s chosen to leave writing Frankenstein , and handing off the book to Matt Kindt with issue 10.

Jeff is leaving the monster team book to take over Justice League Dark with issue 9 . He discusses the new team members and the more adventure based direction for the book. What makes this book and team a “Justice League series ” are the questions Jeff tries to answer, with his choices of where the stories are going.

We also talk about his upcoming Top Shelf OGN project The Underwater Welder .

Then Nunzio DeFilippis & Christina Weir talk about their Oni Press series Bad Medicine, a supernatural police procideral drawn by Christopher Mitten which debuts as Oni’s Free Comic Book Day entry in May. Plus, we talk about some young adult comics they’ve made with female heroines. The high school baseball story Play Ball from Oni drawn by newcomer Jackie Lewis, and a newly re-imagined and designed Avalon Chronicles Vol 1 drawn by Emma Vieceli.

Comic Book Number Crunching With DC Vice Presidents Rood and Wayne, Ron Marz and Ben Blacker

Mon, 12 Mar 2012 21:06:57 +0000

Crossing Comic Books Digital Barriers With Scott Snyder Mark Waid and Jay Faerber

Fri, 02 Mar 2012 21:06:37 +0000

On this edition of Word Balloon writer Scott Snyder joins us to discuss his incredible run on Batman which continues with the Court Of Owlssaga. We look back at last years Detective Comics arc The Black Mirror and look ahead to the back up Owl stories in Batman and the coming crossovers in the Bat family books. We also discuss his new take on Swamp Thing and it’s coming crossover with Animal Man written by Snyder’s good friend Jeff Lemiere.

Mark Waid is back to talk about wrapping up his Boom Studios books Irredeemable and Incorruptible . We dissect his current run on Daredevil for Marvel comics, plus Mark gives us his view of how the comic book business has changed in the ast 10 years. Mark also teases his creator owned digital comic book plans which will be announced at this year’s Wonder-Con in Anaheim later this month.

We wrap up with writer Jay Faerber , whose crime comic Near Death has just finished its first arc with the first trade available in stores and issue 6 debuts later this month. Jay is also on the writing staff of Sarah Muchelle Geller’s CW TV series Ringer, and he tells us behind the scene details of the show as they await word on if we’ll get a second season or not. Jay also talks about his 10 plus years at Image Comics, and compares the current creator owned digital comics scene to what’s happening in television drama and it’s new platforms beyond network and Cable TV.

Time Code

00:00 - 30:39 Scott Snyder

30:40 - 118:15 Mark Waid

118:16-End Of Show Jay Faerber

Comic Books Past Present And Future With Neal Adams and Tony Akins

Fri, 24 Feb 2012 23:13:00 +0000

On this episode of Word Balloon, legendary artist Neal Adams is back to discuss many issues of the current comic book scene. From finding a neutral way to help Gary Friedrich's financial situation, without taking sides in the Disney-Friedrich-Ghost Rider lawsuit, to DC and Marvel's new place in their corporate parents business.

Neal talks about the recent Comic Book films based on DC Marvel and Dark Horse properties, and asks why wasn't John Stewart in the Green Lantern movie, given his prominent place on TV's Justice League series, which had a built in audience of millions?

You'll also hear a good dose of comic book history. From Neal's point of view of the Pinoy artist invasion of the 1970's with guys like Tony De Zuniga and Alfredo Alcala, plus other Adams peers like John Buscema, and Gene Colan.

We discuss Batman Odyssey and Neal's Dark Horse Presents serial Blood. Plus some current and future projects including hints at a new Marvel project. We wrap up with an interesting look at how the idea of the motion comic has evolved into Neal's work in animatics for the motion picture industry.

Then Tony Akins talks about joining the creative team on DC's Wonder Woman sharing alternate art chores with Cliff Chaing. Tony and WW writer Brian Azzarello are longtime Chicago Comic creator pals, going back to the days of companies like Now comics and Comico, and they've been trying to work together on various Vertigo projects for years. The former Jack Of Fables artist admits he's not a big super hero fan these days, but this warrior versus horror villains take on WW intrigued Tony enough to take himself out of the running for some other big ticket books.

Being a working vet of the Chicago Comics scene for over 20 years, Tony talks about the old days of Chicago's thriving comic book publishing scene in the 80'sand 90's, and looks ahead to his pending move to Seattle later this year.

Ep 387 Halo's Master Chief Steve Downes Scott Lobdell And Paul Jenkins

Fri, 17 Feb 2012 15:25:00 +0000

Today a triple feature on Word Balloon as we tak about the worlds of comic books and video games.

First up Steve Downes a fellow radio announcer. Steve is the Morning Host of The Classic Rock radio station WDRV-FM: The Drive in Chicago and the syndicated rock documentary radio show The Classics , but to gamers and fans of Sci-Fi Steve is best known as the voice of Master Chief in The Halo Games. Steve talks about his history with the character details on the upcoming Halo 4 game this Xmas, and what it’s like to be the voice of a cultural icon.

Then writer Scott Lobdell joins us to talk about his 3 DC books Superboy Teen Titans and Red Hood and The Outlaws. Scott explains his pitch process for his NU 52 books, his ideas behind the characterizations he's chosen for both new and old characters, and we talk about the fan reaction to the titles, including last falls outrage at the sexualization of the character Starfire .

We wrap things up with an insightful talk with Paul Jenkins who discusses his recent Marvel mini series like Ka-Zar and the aborted Captain America:Band Of Heroes, plus his DC work on Batman:The Dark Knight with David Finch and the Deadman arc in DC Universe Presents. Paul also gives us behind the scenes details on the new Darkness 2 Video game and his thoughts on the evolution of story telling in video games. Paul also has news about his website and upcoming projects including some new creator owned comics.

Time Code

00:00 - 32:29 Master Chief Steve Downes

32:30 - 2:02:04 Scott Lobdell

2:02:05- End Of Show Paul Jenkins

Ep 386 DC VPs Wayne and Rood On Before Watchmen Actor Scott Porter Archaia's Ramon Perez and Steve Christy and Tom Fowler

Fri, 10 Feb 2012 08:07:03 +0000

Time Code

00:00 - 14:48 Wayne and Rood on Before Watchmen

14:49 - 51:42 Scott Porter On G4's X-Men Anime, Speed Racer and More

51:43 - 140:39 Ramon Perez and Steve Christy On Jim Henson's Tale Of Sand

140:40- End Of Show Tom Fowler on Hulk Season One Venom and More

ep385 Walter Simonson on DCs The Judas Coin - IDWs Mike Costa and Ryan Browne Smoke And Mirrors

Thu, 02 Feb 2012 21:20:00 +0000

On this episode of Word Balloon, Walter Simonson is back with details about his OGN The Judas Coin, coming out in October from DC Comics. Simonson explains the projects origins and inspirations.

Then lifelong pals Mike Costa and Ryan Brown discuss their new mini series coming out next month from IDW Publishing: Smoke And Mirrors. The book has magic, but with a real world twist as a stage magician from our world finds himself in an alternate universe earth, where real magic has evolved side by side with technology. The book even has real stage magic tricks that the reader will experience while reading the comic.

Mike also talks about the cancellation of Blackhawks from DC Comics, which ends with issue 8, and his work at IDW on G.I. Joe Cobra, while Ryan discusses his web comics God Hates Astronauts and Blast Furnace.

ep 384 2012 Comic Book Industry Watch With Stephen Wacker and Marty Pasko

Wed, 25 Jan 2012 22:26:00 +0000

As always, great conversation in this Word Balloon double feature. First Marvel Editor Stephen Wacker joins us to talk about the books he oversees like the Spider-Man titles, Daredevil, The Punisher, and Moon Knight. We talk about the realities in today's market. Why some projects of the past couldn't get greenlit in this tighter economy.

We also discuss Steve's days at DC including many stories about his work on the weekly all-star event 52.

(This conversation was taped before the announcement that Moon Knight had been cancelled)

Then Marty Pasko is back for an insight discussion about his observations of the current comic market. Marty has heard the phrase "comics are doomed." since he joined the business in the 1970's. While he believes there are big changes on the horizon, he's also optimistic enough too suggest a few ways the Direct Market stores can stay in the new expanding digital comics world. We also get more great anecdotes from Pasko's DC Bronze Age days, his work on The Batman Animated series, The Fox 1994 Animated Spider-Man series and as the liaison between Time Warner's various media divisions, Other TV Network and Film production companies, and DC Comics.

ep 383 Marvel News From Bunn Rucka Wacker Waid Dan Slott and The Bendis Tapes Part 2

Thu, 19 Jan 2012 19:58:00 +0000

On this episode of Word Balloon we bring you more press coverage of Marvel's Next Big Things, and conversations with some of your favorite creators.

From last week, you'll hear writer Cullen Bunn talk about Captain America and Hawkeye #629, the new direction for the former Cap and Bucky title, which starting in April will be a Cap and whomever monthly Marvel team up book.

Then editor Steve Wacker and writers Mark Waid and Greg Rucka conduct a free wheeling discussion about April's crossover event The Omega Factor, whuch takes place in Avenging Spider-Man, Daredevil and The Punisher.

Next, Dan Slott joins us to gush about his latest issue of Amazing Spider-Man, out this week. It starts a 2 part time travel story that promises ripple effects for the weeks and months to come.

Finally we bring you Part 2 of the latest Bendis Tapes, as Brian Michael Bendis answeres more question from his Jinxworld Message board about all of his books, and the craft of comic book writing.

Time Code

Cullen Bunn 00:00- 10;19

Steve Wacker Mark Waid Greg Rucka 10:20-36:25

Dan Slott 36:26-1:16:29

Bendis Tapes pt 2 1:16:30-2:30:19

ep 382 Breaking News Marvel Press Conference DC VPs Booms Ross Richie and The Bendis Tapes pt 1

Wed, 11 Jan 2012 19:50:00 +0000

The latest Word Balloon is chock full of news and conversation.

First, we take you inside Tuesday's Marvel Press Conference call, as they announced legendary Marvel artist Walter Simonson would be drawing Brian Michael Bendis's final Avengers arc starting with April's #25. You'll hear Bendis and Simonson talk about their first ever collaboration. Brian also previews April's new Avengers Assembled series with artist Mark Bagley .

Then DC Vice Presidents John Rood and Bob Wayne join us to talk about the Diamond Sales Numbers from December. The horse race between DC and Marvel stayed tight, with Marvel edging out DC, but there was plenty for DC to brag about, having 8 of the top 10 books including Justice League at number 1. We also talk about the new back-up features in Batman and Detective comics, and some retailer questions about what DC will be doing for the 4 months this year that have 5 Wednesdays, plus how the pre "New 52" trades will be marketed moving forward.

Next, Boom! Studios Publisher Ross Richie joins us to talk about the Ka-Boom! line of children's comics, like the new Peanuts monthly and the coming Adventure Time series. Ross also talks about licensed books like The Planet Of The Apes series, The re-release of Grant Morrison's British Avengers Steed and Mrs Peel, Too Much Coffee Man creator Shannon Wheeler's books, and more. Ross also assess the success and strategies of DC and Marvel, since becoming bigger parts of their corporate media synergy plans.

Finally, we begin a new Bendis Tapes session with questions from Brian's JINXWORLD message board .

Time Cues

00:00- 23:30 Marvel Press Conference

23:31- 41:12 DC Vice Presidents John Rood Bob Wayne

41:13- 1:37:23 Boom Studios Ross Richie

137:24-250:23 The Bendis Tapes Part 1

ep 381 Ed Brubaker And Greg Pak On Fatale Capt America Red Skull Hulk Doctor Strange Season 1 And Winter Soldier

Thu, 05 Jan 2012 05:48:00 +0000

It's another Word Balloon double feature to start the new year right. First ed Brubaker gives us an inside look at his new Image horror/crime saga Fatale with co-conspiritor Sean Phillips. We also discuss the latest Captain America arc with Alan Davis, and the upcoming Winter Soldier series which starts next month.

Then Greg Pak joins us to talk about his chilling 2011 mini series Red Skull Incarnate . We look back at the wrap ups to Herc and Alpha Flight, and his incredible run on HULK which included the crtically accliamed PLANET HULK and WORLD WAR HULK. greg also previews his upcoming original graphic novel Doctor Strange Season One with Emma Rios.

ep 380 New Years Eve Party With Bendis pt2 Will Pfeiffer and Sal Abbinanti pt2

Fri, 30 Dec 2011 21:33:00 +0000

On this edition of Word Balloon, we wrap up 2011 with another multi guest show. We wrap up our last conversation of the year with Brian Michael Bendis who gives us updates on Takio, The Avengers Film, and his television projects like the Powers, pilot for FX, The Ultimate Spider-Man cartoon, and AKA Jessica Jones. We also talk about the recent cancellations of b-level character books, which begs the question “Can an ongoing c-level book survive in this current comic market?”

Next Will Pfieffer joins us to talk about his new gig co-writing Iron Man 2.0 with Nick Spencer to close out the current series. DC comics also has re-released Will’s Batman Legends Of The Dark Night story Blaze Of Glory drawn by Chris Weston . Plus he has a new Tor Books original graphic novel due out in March . It’s a sci-fi suspense thriller called The Advance Team. Will’s day job is a DVD reviewer for the Rockford Register Star newspaper, so we go over some of the quirkiest DVD releases for 2011.

Finally Atomika creator Sal Abbinanti wraps up his talk about the art exhibition of his paintings going on at Challengers Comics in Chicago through January 9^th.

In each interview, there's a lot of backmatter about Movies Television DVDs and the pop culture things we love. Enjoy, and Happy New Year!

Time Code

Brian Bendis 00:00-46:00

Will Pfeiffer 46:01-2:03:01

Sal Abbinanti 2:03:02-3:05:00

ep 379 Holiday Cheer From Brian Bendis Walter Simonson Paul Cornell and Sal Abbinanti

Wed, 21 Dec 2011 07:23:00 +0000

Happy Holidays! Here's a four guest spectacular to help you get through the travel times to and from your holiday destinations.

First Brian Michael Bendis joins us for the start of a 2 part talk. We discuss the upcoming 2012 event Avengers versus X-Men, what's happening with the return of Norman Osbourne and a new team of Dark Avengers , plus Moon Knight, and this week's issue of Ultimate Spider-man #5.

Walter Simonson is up next. He talks about stepping down as an art teacher to concentrate on some future creator owned projects. Plus we look back at this year's release of the IDW Simonson Mighty Thor Artist Edition . Walter takes us behind the scenes explaining the process of putting this incredible project together. He also tell us about the experience of being in this year's Thor movie. We also look back at Walter's first writing assignments which led to his adaptation of Raider's Of The Lost Ark, with artist John Buscema , and the details behind a Batman sketch that led to a classic cover and story.

Then Paul Cornell Joins us to talk about his work on DC's new 52. We discuss his run on Stormwatch, which ends with next month's issue #5. Then we examine in depth the ideas behind Demon Knights . Paul takes us through all the main characters and hints at the book's future direction. Cornell also previews his upcoming Vertigo book Saucer Country which debuts in March, and a new sci-fi-police procedural novel he describes as " Buffy meets The Sweeney".

Finally we check in with Sal Abbinanti , the creator of Atomika . Sal has an art show of original paintings of heroes and villains going on through January 9th at Challengers Comics Rouges Gallery in Chicago.

00:00-57:57- Brian Bendis

57:58-1:39:25- Walter Simonson

139:26-237:15- Paul Cornell

237:16-259:58 Sal Abbinanti

ep 378 DC 52 Talk With John Rood James Robinson and The Aquaman Art Team

Mon, 12 Dec 2011 19:18:00 +0000

On this edition of Word Balloon, we spend a lot of time discussing the DC universe. First John Rood DC Entertainment's Executive Vice President of Sales, Marketing and Business Development joins us to breakdown the November numbers from Diamond as the new 52 propels DC to another winning month, however the gap between them and Marvel comics and Marvel Comics is narrowing. Rood gives us an idea of what the buying trends are now that there is 3 months of New 52 data to examine. Plus, we get some demographics from The Nielsen Surveys DC conducted with consumers.

Then James Robinson joins us for his first full length WB chat. Robinson explains how he got into reading American comic books growing up in London England. We discuss The Shade Maxi Series, and his exploration of this new DC Universe. Plus we look back on his recent runs on Superman, and The Justice League. James explains his ideas of characterization for heroes Like Donna Troy, villains like Solomon Grundy, and fan reactions to those choices.

Finally, we have a transcontinental talk with the entire Brazilian art team on Aquaman. Penciller Ivan Reis, Inker Joe Prado, and Colorist Rod Reis talk about the Brazilian comics scene, and why they chose to go from working on Green Lantern to Aquaman. Despite speaking in a 2nd language rather than their native portuguese, all three creators conduct a very nuanced and complex conversation discussing their art and love of certain characters with full command of the english language.

ep 377 The Loeb Report and Nick Spencer

Fri, 02 Dec 2011 08:11:00 +0000

ep 376 Giving Thanks With Rob Liefeld Matt Fraction and Alex De Campi

Wed, 23 Nov 2011 20:25:00 +0000

Here for your holiday pleasure, a Word Balloon triple feature. We wrap things up with Rob Liefeld, who talks about his work with Robert Kirkman on The Infinite for Image Comics. Then Rob goes into detail with his full slate of books he'll be releasing in 2012 under the Extreme Imprint.Liefeld goes down the roster of creators on his various titles, which includes Erik Larsen writing and drawing SUPREME.

Then Alex Di Campi joins us to discuss her upcoming graphic novel Ashes with artist Jimmy Braxton. Ashes is a 252 page story which Alex is trying to fund via kickstarter. The story is a sequel to her Eisner nominated 2005 IDW story SMOKE. Di Campi has been a long time veteran in the digital comics market with the 2009 story Valentine. She talks about the successes and missteps she had with that book, and shares some innovative ideas on how self publishers can partner with comics stores on both the print and digital versions of a comic book.

Finally Matt Fraction is back to wrap up his latest Fireside Chat with some TV and Film talk.

Time Code

00:00-132:59 Rob Liefeld

133:00-210:14 Alex De Campi

210:15-The End Matt Fraction

ep 375 Rob Liefeld On Today's Comic Book Market and The Rucka Debrief Part 2

Wed, 16 Nov 2011 20:07:00 +0000

On this episode of Word Balloon, we begin our two part conversation with artist and Image Comics Co-Founder Rob Liefeld. In part 1 Rob talks about what it's like working as a free lance artist at Comics Big 2 publishers Marvel and DC. He just finished an 8 year stint at Marvel which included such projects as Onslaught Reborn, Deadpool Corps and many covers. Currently Rob is drawing Hawk and Dove as part of DC's New 52 initiative. Rob compares the current strategies of the 2 companies as he sees them , including what's happening for both at the film and toy levels, which he sees as key indicators on where their publishing is currently focused.

Then Greg Rucka is back for part 2 of The Rucka Debrief, answering fans questions about the current status of fan favorite projects like Queen And Country and Stumptown from Oni Press, along with reflecting observations on "52", the weekly DC event of 2006. Looking back, how would Greg describe the collaborative work with writers Grant Morrison, Mark Waid and Geoff Johns, artist Keith Giffen, and editors Steve Wacker and Michael Siglain?

Lots of candid conversation in this episode of Word Balloon.

ep 374 The Rucka Debrief Pt 1 DCs October Surprise Prophets Of Science Fiction

Wed, 09 Nov 2011 17:49:00 +0000

On this episode of Word Balloon, we speak with Dc Entertainment Vice Presidents Bob Wayne (Sales) and John Rood (Sales Marketing and Business Development) about DC Comics big sales for the month of October. Month 2 of the New 52 showed a

greater market share, with DC claiming about 50% of the total sales pie for single issues.

John and Bob Talk about some of the surprising sales trends both digitally and in the direct market.We also get more details about the 100 graphic novels and collected stories available on the new Amazon Kindle Fire device. You'll also hear about future plans and partnerships to promote Dc Comics and upcoming TV and film projects like Cartoon Network's DC Nation, and next summer's Batman film.

Then we begin a new 2 part Greg Rucka Debrief. In this episode Greg talks about his current work on The Punisher with Marco Checcetto. Greg gives an overview of his view on how Frank Castle operates in the 616 universe and what obstacles are inherent in a superhero filled world.

Rucka also discusses his new web comic with Rich Burchett "Lady Sabre and The Pirates of the Ineffable Aether" . The story marries steam punk swashbuckling pirates with a gun toting western duo all living on a fantastic planet of magic, floating ships and cities. The twice weekly webcomic is starting it's 3rd chapter this Thursday. New readers can go the website and find archives of the firt 2 chapters plus character essays, maps and information that provide a rich backdrop for this rollicking adventure.

Then, a conversation with Kevin Tavolaro Nino Lopez and Joe Peicott , some of the producers behind the new Science Channel TV series Prophets Of Science Fiction, debuting tonight at 10pm eastern/pacific time. Filmmaker Ridley Scott (Alien, Blade Runner) hosts this 8 part series features profiles on noted Sci-Fi creators who's dreams of the future inspired many real scientific advances. From Mary Shelly's Frankenstien, to George Lucas's Star Wars, you'll hear scientists, noted science fiction authors and filmmakers give their thoughts on these remarkable thinkers.

The show will feature comments film clips and images from people like writers Harlan Ellison and Robert Silverberg, Tv producers Brannon Bragga (Star Trek) and Dan Vedders (Futurama), comic book creators Matt Fraction and Chirs Ware, plus a certain podcast host Word Balloon listeners may be familiar with.

Time Code

00:00-23:20 DC VPs John Rood & Bob Wayne

23:21-127:27 Rucka Debrief Part 1

127:28-149:42 Prophets Of Science Fiction

ep 373 Matt Fraction Fear Itself Fireside Chat IFC Critic Matt Singer

Thu, 03 Nov 2011 17:21:00 +0000

On this episode of Word Balloon, Matt Fraction willingly debates the story beats of Fear Itself.

All of the tough questions are asked. We talk about the recent trend of the event story epilogues

occuring outside of the actual series. Why kill Thor, when he just had just been ressurected, and

isn't it likely he'll be back in time for next summer's Avenger's film?

You'll also hear what's coming next in Casanova, Iron Man and Tanarus God Of Thunder, plus an informative preview

of The Defenders. Matt expands on what we've seen in the Fear Itself epilogue, and how the Hulk hands this

new Defenders line up it's first problem. You'll heardetails on the team's line-up, plus Fraction discusses his

decision to write this book in a modified Marvel style collaboration with Terry Dobson, as opposed to

the usual full script.

For aspiring writers Matt goes in detail about the different disipline of writing 20 page issues

compaed to the former 22 page comic. It's more compliated than just cutting 2 pages from each chapter.

Then IFC Film Critic Matt Singer joins me to talk about this years slate of comic book films.

From The Green Hornet, The Marvel films Thor Captain America,X-Men First Class, Green Lantern,

Cowboys and Aliens, to the coming Tin Tin movie, We'll discuss the successes and failures. Plus we

preview next year's slate of movies.

ep 372 Double Feature Chris Roberson And Jeremy Haun

Thu, 27 Oct 2011 06:00:00 +0000

On this edition of Word Balloon, we check in with writer Chris Roberson to talk about his new IDW DC Comics crossover between the Original Crew Of Star Trek, and The Legion Of Superheroes. We also look at his Vertigo Books like I Zombie with Mike Alred and His work in The Fables Universe on the Cinderella mini series From Fabletown With Love drawn by Sean McManus . Her fairy tale spy adventures will continue next year with a new 2012 6 part story, Fables Are Forever.

Chris also gives details about the tough task of taking over the last 7 parts of J Michael Straczynsk's aborted Superman 12 part story Grounded. We discuss the one chapter of his story depicting a muslim super hero inspired by Superman, that was deemed too controversial to be published , and what it's future fate might be.

Then Jeremy Haun is back to promote his new book for Top Cow's Pilot Season called The Beauty, co-written with Jason Hurley. Jeremy is also wrapping up his work on The Top Cow Event Artifacts with Ron Marz, and soon takes over art chores on The Darkness teaming up with new writer David Hine. Haun and Hine worked on Batman in Detective Comics and last year's Arkham Reborn mini series.

ep 371 New York Comic Con 2011 A View From The Floor

Thu, 20 Oct 2011 19:59:00 +0000

On this epsisode of Word Balloon we hit the floor of last week's New York Comic Con and speak with a number of creators.
You'll hear talks with Frank Quitley (Batman & Robin Multiplicity) , Chris Burnham (Batman Leviatham) Matt Wagner (Legendary Comics) , Shane Davis (Superman Earth One Vol 2) Gabriel Hardman (Betrayal Of The Planet Of The Apes, Secret Avengers) Mahmud Asrar (Supergirl) Tom Fowler (Venom) Fred Van Lente (Alpha Flight, Comic Book Comics ) Ryan Dunleavey ( Comic Book Comics , MTV Comics) Brent Schoonover (Mr. Murder is Dead, Astronaut Dad) Jon and Matt Roscehtti (Venture Bros, Growing Up Comics) and Dave Elliott (Marksmen Red Spike Heavy Metal)

Time Code

Intro 00:00-01:45

Frank Quitley, Chirs Burnham, & Matt Wagner 01:46-10:13

Gabriel Hardman 10:14-15:47

Mahmud Asrar 15:48-18:55

Fred Van Lente & Ryan Dunleavy 18:56-29:57

Shane Davis 29:58-46:31

Tom Fowler & Tom King 46:32-57:16

Brent Schoonover 57:17-105:52

Jon & Matt Roschetti 105:53-111:50

Dave Elliot 111:51-136:12
Close 136:13-137:20

ep 370 Old Time Radio Superheroes With Steve Darnall

Mon, 10 Oct 2011 23:23:00 +0000

Writer and radio broadcaster Steve Darnall joins us to talk about his past works in comics. Steve worked in the fringe genres as the comics market struggled to survive after the speculation era went bust. You'll hear about his collaboration with Alex Ross on the 2 part UNCLE SAM prestige series , to his parody of classic romance comics for Slave Labor Graphics and his own companmy Funny Valentine.

We also talk about Steve's current job hosting 2 radio shows which present classic Old Time Radio programs Those Were The Days and Yesterday USA, where he puts a historical context while presenting dramas comedies and documentaries made from the 1930s-1950s. As opposed to a nostalgic "Remember When" angle that older hosts use for a geritatric audience, Steve's show is one of discovery for a younger generation who come to these programs with a fresh perspective.

Then we talk about the radio superheroes some of which predate the 1938 debut of Superman. Darnall talks about the origins of The Lone Ranger and Green Hornet, created by Detroit radio station WXYZ owner Geoge W Trendle and writer Fran Striker. We also look at the 1940 Superman radio serial. You'll learn how many of the common phrases and plot points of the comics originated on radio like Jimmy Olson, kryptonite, and the infamous lines from Metropolis citizens "Look, up in the sky ..." .

ep 369 Brad Meltzer Talks Decoded Season 2

Wed, 05 Oct 2011 14:55:00 +0000

On this episode ogf Word Balloon Brad Meltzer is back to discuss the 2nd season of
Brad Meltzer's Decoded which premieres tonight at 9pm Easter/Pacific On The History
Channel. Brad recaps some of the highlights of season one, and a preview of this season.
The show goes global to investigates mysteries surrounding The Vatican, Fort Knox and more.

Plus Brad promises for JSA fans,the real story behind Adolph Hitler and The Spear Of Destiny.

We also talk about The Inner Circle Meltzer's latest novel, now available in paperback.

ep 368 Sex In Comics , A WB Special Report

Fri, 30 Sep 2011 18:00:00 +0000

The comic news blogosphere has erupted this week in editorials and op-ed pieces over the depiction of Starfire in the DC Comic Red Hood And The Outlaws and The first issue of Catwoman, which ends with a sex scene involving Batman. Too much for mainstream comics? I debate the subject with Vaneta Rogers . We also talk about the overall success of DC's new 52, and their employing the Nielsen Company to conduct reader surveys.

ep 367 Pro Tips From Mark Waid Robert Atkins Sam Humpries and Steve Sanders

Wed, 21 Sep 2011 16:53:00 +0000

Today's show features creators who are spotlighting their current books, but also give writing art and publishing tips for aspiring creators.

Mark Waid discusses his work for Boom Studios and writing Daredevil for Marvel, but he also discusses how he approaches writing established charcters , from figuring Superman out, to still being uncomfortable writing Thor and Wonder Woman.

Robert Atkins talks about his art on IDWs GI JOE COBRA COMMANDER with writer Chuck Dixon, and an upcoming original graphic novel with Larry HAma, but also talks about using his blog and social networking to expand his fan base.

Finally Sam Humphries and Steve Sanders join us to talk about their controversial sci-fi sex parody Our Love Is Real . This summer the duo self published the comic and discuss the platforms and distribution avenues they took to market andsell their book. Their befforts got Image Comicsattention and the book is being realesed in November, but that version has its own method of distribution, and the guys tell us how their selling process continues to evolve.

ep 366 Talkin About The DC New 52 With John Rood And Bob Wayne, Ape Talk With Gabe Hardman & Corrina Bechko And Tom Katers

Mon, 12 Sep 2011 15:10:00 +0000

A timely news triple feature. First up DC Comics vice presidents John Rood and Bob Wayne discuss the debuting success of DC Comics New 52. The first 3 weeks of releases have sold out at the retailer level, and Rood and Wayne talk about what's next.

The Gabriel Hardman and Corrina Bechklo discuss their new mini series for Boom Studios Betrayal Of The Planet Of The Apes. The creators talk about this prequel to the original film series, which features a young Dr. Zaius freshly elected to the governing council.

The Duo has also a story in Four Star Studio's Digital Comic Double Feature. A tight spy thriller called The Liar, plus Gabe talks about his wrap-up on HULK with Jeff Parker.

Finally Podcaster and long time DC reader Tom Katers (Tom Vs Aquaman) discusses the recent transition from Flashpoint to the New 52.

Time Cues

Intro 00:00-3:07

John Rood and Bob Wayne 3:08-20:24

Gabe Hard-Corrina Bechko 20:25-1:25:00

Tom Katers 1:25:01-2:02:35

Close 2:02:36-2:03:52

The Bendis Tapes Part 2 Let The Q and A Begin

Tue, 30 Aug 2011 20:52:00 +0000

On this portion of the Bendis Tapes, we discuss the craft of comic book writing as Brian

takes more questions from his Jinxworld message board.

In addition you'll hear more details of his work on the creative commitee for the Marvel Movies,

His work on the upcoming Marvel MMMO, and more story details on the Avenger books, Ultimate Spider-Man

and other comics.

Plus Brian gives his opinion on DC Comics NU 52, and how he sees comic book storytelling changing

in the immediate future.

Double Feature Bendis Tapes Part 1-G4's Blair Butler And Kevin Mellon

Thu, 25 Aug 2011 07:30:00 +0000

In part 1 of the latest Bendis Tapes we go over Brian's Summer vacation. You'll hear about the Powers TV pilot shoot in Chicago, and his adventures in the Windy City. Then we get behind the scene details of the developments in Ultimate Spider-Man. Brian tells us what led to the creation of Miles Morales and the controversey thart followed. We also get details on what's coming up in the pages of Bendis's Avengers titles, from working with Neal Adams and the return of Gabriel Del Otto, to Daredevil joining the team.

Then, G4's Fresh Ink comics reviewer Blair Butler has joined the ranks of comic book writers with Heart, a new Image mini series co-created by artist Kevin Mellon. The two join me to talk about this MMA comic, the inspiration behind it, and the challenge of capturing the fastest growing sport in comic book form. We also discuss the current news and trends in the comic book market.

Chicago Comic-Con Chat Azzarello Risso and Johnson talk SPACEMAN FLASHPOINT BATMAN and more

Fri, 19 Aug 2011 21:51:27 +0000

A quick but great talk with the 100 Bullets crew Brian Azzarello Eduardo Risso and Dave Johnson , who just wrapped up the best FLASHPOINT tie-in story. The instant Batman classic, Knight Of Vengance, which tells the alternate universe story of Thomas Wayne taking up the mantle of The Bat, and how he dealt with the death of his son Bruce on that fateful night in crime alley.

The guys give us a preview of their new VERTIGO series SPACEMAN, and talk about ther future projects, like Dave Johnson's work on the upcoming new season of the Venture Bros on Adult Swim.

Note- The recording of the talk was compromised, so there is some background surface noise, but you can still hear everyone clearly.

Robert Kirkman and Marty Pasko Part 3

Fri, 12 Aug 2011 17:30:00 +0000

On this episode of Word Balloon we check in with writer Robert Kirkman . You'll hear about the genesis of his new series with Rob Liefeld The Infinite from Image, plus an update on the status of their coloboration on KILLRAVEN for Marvel comics.
We also go in depth on The Walking Dead , discussing the differences in working on the TV show, and writing the comic. Robert takes us into the writing room, and production process with some details on season 2.

Note-This was recorded before the departure of Frank Darabont as the day to day show runner producer on The Walking Dead.

Then we wrap up or talk with Marty Pasko, which continues to explore little known facts about DC Comics in publishing television and film. Pasko try figure out the answers to the questions of why is The DC reboot happening, why are the Retroactive books happening now? We also talk about Marty's TV and animation work on shows like GI JOE, and The Twilight Zone .
Note- That amazing Pasko Portrait was created by Michael Netzer

The DCU Past Present And Future With Marty Pasko And Vaneta Rogers

Thu, 04 Aug 2011 19:30:00 +0000

As the saying goes you don't know where you're going if you don't know where you've been. We explore the past and future changes at DC Comics. Pasko wrote the history for the 2007 DC Vault, and researched more material for last year's 75th anniversary Tashen book. You'll hear about Marty's 1970's DC retroactive Superman story, but also learn about deacdes of chnages and innovations to many of DC's top stars. From the stress filled stomach aches suffered by Wonder Woman editors when they got salacious stories from her creator William Moulton Martsers. Pasko and Cary Bates were given the task of coaching Mario Puzzo in Superman lore while Puzzo prepared to write the 1978 first screenplay draft for the Richard Donner film. You'll learn how editor Julie Schwartz revamped Batman in 1966, to catch the eye of television producer William Dozier and led to him craeting the ABC Batman TV show.

Then Vaneta Rogers Of Newsarama is back to talk about the coming changes in the DCNU. Rogers has interviewed nearly all of the craetors involved in the relaunch,and between us we try to put the pieces together to figure out what may be in store for readers this September.

SDCC 2011 Panels Jonathan Hickman Spotlight and 6th Annual Podcast Panel

Wed, 27 Jul 2011 13:55:00 +0000

Our San Diego Comic Con coverage begins with the 2 panels I was honored to moderate. First up Jonathan Hickman's Spotlight. This was Hickman's first SDCC in 5 years, and it was a chance to field craft questions from fans about his past Image and Marvel books, and a look at FF Secret Warriors and SHIELD , plus the New books The Red Wing, Feel Better Now, and his upcoming run on Ultimates.

Jon was candid about career ven gave an enthusiastic shout out to DC's new 52 !

Giant Sized Word Balloon Dan Slott Gail Simone Marty Pasko

Tue, 19 Jul 2011 20:09:00 +0000

Here's a giant sized Word Balloon to have something to listen to, while you're traveling to the San Diego Comic-Con, taking a long plane/train/car trip, or spending the day running errands for hours. Nearly 4 hours of fantastic comic talk in one podcast!

First up, Dan Slott gives us the low down on Spider Island, the coming event in Amazing Spider-Man, Venom, and several other Marvel comics in the next 3 months. It all starts with next week's ASM #666.

Then, Gail Simone joined Art Baltazar and Franco! on the Aw Yeah Podcast, and dropped some behind the scene clues about her books Batgirl and Firestorm. Both are part of the DCNU 52 title initiative happening in September. She talks about the transition Barbara Gordon will make from Oracle to her return to the bat tights. Gail also tells us how her Firestorm Co-Writer Ethan Van Sciver got her excited about writing the further adventures of Ronnie Raymond and Jason Rusch .

Finally Marty Pasko returns to talk about his new Superman Retroactive 1970's book. We start to compare the coming Man Of Steel reboot to the Bronze age re-boot, when Clark Kent went from Daily Planet Reporter, to WGBS Newscaster, and a worldwide chain reaction caused all of the kryptonite to change to iron.

Plus, being the DC historian who helped create the DC VAULT and Taschem's DC 75th Anniversary books, Mary can't help but digress into great anecdotes about many writers artists and editors. You'll hear stories about every decade of the companies rich history.

Because we're giving you so much to enjoy on this episode, here's a time code for all the guests and information.

Open, including John's SDCC Schedule 00:00-2:49

Dan Slott 2:49-1:38:50

Gail Simone 138:50-2:23:47

Marty Pasko 2:23:47-3:50:08

Triple Feature Kelly SueDeConnick Stuart Immonen and Francis Manapul

Fri, 15 Jul 2011 07:02:56 +0000

A great conversation with 3 of today's hottest creators. First up, Kelly Sue DeConnick talks about her current run on Supergirl, which wraps up the character in the current DC continuity. Would you be surprised to learn Kelly Sue is only the 2nd female writer to pen the Supergirl monthly? DeConnick also expands on the fact that despite Gail Simone being the only female writer involved in DC's Nu 52, she was approached to pitch. She explains why she had to decline the offer., and the inevitable 'are there enough women in comics?" discussion ensues.

We also talk about her Marvel mini series Osborn, and the upcoming Castle original graphic novel, co-written by Brian Michael Bendis.

The live from last week's art gallery show in Chicago, Stuart Immonen talks about his amazing work on FEAR ITSELF with Matt Fraction. The mini series has showcased some of Stuart's best work, and that's saying something, when you consider his recent runs on Ultimate Spider-Man and New Avengers.

Then Francis Manapul joins Art Baltazar and Franco, in a segment of the Aw Yeah Podcast to discuss the transition from artist, to writer artist on THE FLASH for DC. We go behind the scenes discussing Francis's process, and the exciting challenge of sharing writing and art duties with Brian Buccellato.

Double Feature Brian Azzarello And Phil Hester

Wed, 06 Jul 2011 13:57:00 +0000

On this episode of Word Balloon, its another double feature of top creators in conversation. First Brian Azzarello talks about his FLASHPOINT BATMAN mini series with Eduardo Risso, and the differences between Thomas and Bruce Wayne . We compare the different Batman stories Azzarello has told, from JOKER, BROKEN CITY and the weekly Wednessday comics We also discuss His new Vertigo science fiction series with Risso SPACEMAN. It premiered in the STRANGE ADVENTURES anthology and will begin it's first arc in the fall.

Brian also talks about the coming DC Reboot, and his thoughts on if his storytelling would change to cater to this new potential digital audience.

Then, Phil Hester talks about co-writing the new Bionic Man comic series, adapted from a unproduced Kevin Smith screenplay. Just like their Green Hornet collaboration, Hester and Smith tweak the script and Jonathan Lau handles the art chores.

Phil also talks about his continuing work on The Green Hornet, which he now co-writes with his regular
inking partner Ande Parks . He discusses the wrap ups to his run on The Darkness (which ends with issue 100) to Wonder Woman Oddessy and the transition to the DC Reboot., plus his work on IDWs Godzilla with Eric Powell .

ep 356 Summit City Comcon 2011 Comics In The Digital Age

Sat, 02 Jul 2011 07:32:00 +0000

Double Feature John Romita Jr Part 1 - Denys Cowan Panel Summit City Comic Con

Wed, 22 Jun 2011 13:50:00 +0000

On this episode of Word Balloon we presenty a double feature with two artistc masters.

First up, part one of a conversation with John Romita Jr. We talk about his current run on Avengers
with Brian Bendis and Kick Ass 2 with Mark Millar. John also previews a creator owned series in the works
with Howard Chaykin. A 1970's New York crime/fantasy pastiche called Schmuggy anfd Bimbo.

Then Milestone founder Denys Cowan heads a panel recorded at this past weekend's Summit City Comioc Con
with fellow artists Angel Gabriel and Jeff Newman. Cowan and company recall their early days assiting Deathlok
creator Rich Buckler when Denys was 14.

Our reaserch exposed a dark secret to the audience, forcing Gabriel and Cowan to confess to their time in the 80's
in regional TV Wrestling on a show called POWERSLAM with infamous stars like Dick The Bruiser and Ox Baker.Gabriel was known as
THe Dark Angel, and Denys was a manager (check you tube)

Then Denys talks about his days on titles like The Question, Black Panther, Power Man
and Iron Fist, and a classic Batman run with Sam Hamm (the screenwriter of the 1989 Tim Burton Batman film).
He also tells the story of the formation of Milestone and the creation of their line of multi-racial heroes.

He reminices about his friend the late Dwayne McDuffie, who was the first creator he approached to join the venture,
and talks about the succeses and struglles that came after the company debuted. The panel talk about the creation of
Hardware and the symbolic metaphor of the glass celing struggle the creators dealt with.

Then Denys hints at 2 new upcoming projects a 5 part Batman story about the 5 phases of accepting death by Paul Levitz,
and a new Vertigo mini series with Selwyn Hinds, who worked on Case 21 with Cowan in the recent STRANGE ADVENTURES anthology.

Jeff Lemire ReBoots Frankenstein And TNTs Faliing Skies

Thu, 16 Jun 2011 14:27:00 +0000

A timely double feature, as Jeff Lemire talks about his DC flashpoint mini series featuring Frankenstein and The Creature Commandos, which spins off into one of the new 52 DC Reboot titles, plus his coming take on Animal Man. We also talk about his continuing Vertigo saga Sweet Tooth, and wrapping up his run on Superboy. Jeff tells us about learning that his take on Connor was coming to a close, and the excitement of pitching the new take on The Creature Commandos . We aslo talk about his great new origin of Ultra The Mutil Alien, in the recent Strange Adventures anthology.

Plus interviews with the stars and producers of TNT's new Sci-Fi summer series Falling Skies, featuring actors Noah Wiley and Moon Bloodgood, plus Co-Executive Producer Mark Verheiden, and Director Greg Beeman. You'll hear about the sow, and the comic book prequel currently online and coming in print from Dark Horse Comics . The show debuts this Sunday at 9pm Eastern/Pacific on TNT.

Paul Jenkins Dont Call It A Comeback

Tue, 07 Jun 2011 13:59:00 +0000

Paul Jenkins joins us to discuss his upcoming Deadman Arc kicking off the new DC Universe Presents that starts in September . We also talk about several new Marvel mini series that begin this week. Ka-Zar , Captain America and The All Winners Squad and a series of Thor One shots. Jenkins has interesting character challenges for all, and shares his point of view on telling stories for each of these heroes.

We also talk about past works like The Sentry and Captain Marvel's Civil War Return, and Paul gives eye opening perspective on how a writer starts telling one story that becomes something quite different after the Marvel Universe status quo changes. Plus Paul has news about a new The Darkness video game, and other video projects like the upcoming web series Shelf Life.

The DC Reboot With Art And Franco and Laurie Gentile On The Kankakee Fantasy Con

Thu, 02 Jun 2011 14:39:53 +0000

Drawing The Batman Part 2 Francesco Francavillia

Wed, 25 May 2011 13:58:00 +0000

Finally, comic artist Francesco Francavilla joins us for a nice converstaion about his process, from his pencils
inking and coloring. We talk about his incredible recent work on books like DC's Detective Comics with Scott Snyder on the long awaited returnof James Gordon Jr,and Marvel's The Black Panther Man Without Fear series with David Liss.

We also talk about his Zorro work for Dynamite with Matt Wagner, his western story in Image Comics Outlaw Territory,
His story for the Jim Henson Storytellers Anthology from Archaia and his covers for The Lone Ranger-Zorro crossover.

Francesco describes the comic art studios of Italy, and how they are able to do monthly comics
that are 96 pages per issue.

Plus we discuss Francavilla's website Pulp Sunday, featuring more sketches web comics and lobby card
designsand his contributions to the artists blog Comic Twart. Check out his amazing art at his website .

Drawing The Batman With Chris Burnham

Mon, 23 May 2011 03:10:14 +0000

A Super Talk With Marty Pasko

Thu, 12 May 2011 04:55:00 +0000

Marty Pasko joins us as he returns to Metropolis writing the 70’s DC Retroactive issue of Superman, drawn by Eduardo Barreto . We talk about the still amazing world of Superman. We ‘ll discuss the career of the late Jackie Cooper who played Perry White in the first 4 modern Superman films . Despite a good working relationship with Cooper on Simon & Simon in the 80’s Pasko confesses he wasn’t crazy about the casting of Cooper as Perry. Marty also describes the editorial philosophy of Julie Schwartz, and goes into interesting detail about how DC’s Silver and Bronze age books were written .

You’ll get insights into the cast of the 50’s Adventures Of Superman, Superman regulars like Mike Carlin, and Cary Bates We also discuss the way DC and Warner Bros interacted in the 90’s , because Marty had the job as liason between the divisions of Warner Film TV and animation with DC.