Dave Campbell is Back!

The ever-awesome Dave Campbell, formerly of the awesome comics blog Dave's Long Box, has returned in the form of The Society For The Advancement of Dave. Moreover, he has reminded me that I've forgotten to celebrate a very important holiday.



HAPPY BELATED BOXING DAY, EVERYONE!

To The Grand Ladies We Lost This Year

R.I.P., Bettie Page and Eartha Kitt. These ladies set the standard and will definitely be missed.

Bettie Page -





Eartha Kitt -

Happy SolKwanHanuChrisTice!

Happy Holidays, everyone. I hope this Christmas brings you all the most important things in life, things that don't have price tags, like love, hope and warm memories to last a lifetime.



(The above images are from Newsarama's lovely collection of Comic Book Holiday greetings - go and take a look for yourselves. Merry Christmas, Newsarama! Thanks for being awesome.)

And y'know, failing that, I hope you get a lot of awesome things that do have price tags. ;)

BONUS CHRISTMAS VIDEO CONTENT! (and many X-Mas thanks to Bottomless Cup for the tip-off on one of these)!


(Jingle Belle belongs to Paul Dini and if you dug that, go hunt down Jingle Belle's most recent tale of Santa Claus Vs. Frankenstein)




(I listen to Los Straitjackets every Christmas. Nothing says Christmas like Mexican Surf Rock played by men in Luchadora masks.)


(To absent fictional friends. You're still eating Chocos and milk in our hearts, J'onn J'onzz.)


(And lastly, a friendly reminder - even if you heart isn't warmed by Christmas, it can still be warmed by eggnog. :P)

MERRY WHATEVER, EVERYBODY!

Crappy Photoshop Christmas

Have a Blessed Solstice!



. . . or ELSE.

Canadians Win At Christmas

Because truthfully, whom among us wouldn't want "8 comic books" for Christmas?



A more complete version with a transcript can be found here, btw, but watch out for embedded sound.

Two movie trailers - now with added Deadpool!

Blink and you'll miss the ever-hilarious Merc With A Mouth popping in the following previews. Oh, yeah, and this Wolverine guy and some big green dude shows up a lot in them too.



Emma Frost is there too? What the hell? Okay, random.



"Flamin' idiot." Hee hee hee. Claremontisms are funny when spoken aloud, bub.

Merry Christmas With The Batman And Red Tornado

Some of the kooky folks over at Scans_Daily have collected three YouTube videos featuring A Very Special Christmas Episode of The Brave and The Bold. If you haven't started watching that show, you should start. It's charming as all hell and full of win.

This X-Mas episode is so cool that you can watch it and see the following:

- Red Tornado tries to learn the spirit of Christmas.
- Blue Beetle punches some guys and argues with his suit.
- And oh, yes - Batman beats up flying saucers and rides a freakin' reindeer.

And I still haven't even scratched the surface of how wonderful it is. I think it may have even surpassed Christmas With The Joker* as my favorite animated Batman Christmas story and that is saying something, my friends.

Incidentally, my dear friend Kay, whom I have mentioned in passing on this blog, still has never seen It's A Wonderful Life for the exact same reasons Batman cites in that episode. She has no soul.

A word of encouragement

As some of you may have noticed, I occasionally suffer from a lack of enthusiasm for writing and blogging by extension. So, to combat my occasional blahs, I hereby embed this incredibly inspirational video!


I hope it touched all of you as much as it did me.

Additionally, in actual comic book related news, Secret Invasion is finally over. I could discuss that but I think Chris Sims has covered the entire crossover with the same enthusiasm and scope that I feel it deserved.

Because we need a little Krampus

Given that it's the Holiday Season, we here at The Lookout have decided that it's time to share a beautiful holiday tradition . . . the story of Krampus, Santa Claus' most wicked associate.



First, instead of that boring Wikipedia entry above, I suggest reading this heartwarming explanation from the webcomic Something Positive. All done? Grand. Now it is time for the Festive Krampus Song!



And don't forget the Krampus Parades!



Merry Krampus, everybody! Sleep tight and don't let the Krampus bite!

. . . or, y'know, if you're some kind of weirdo, you could go read about Santa Claus fighting Frankenstein with the help of his mischievous teenage daughter. Whatever.

The Zombies of Christmas Future

Ready for some Christmas spirit? Then please enjoy this touching reenactment of Charles Dicken's A Christmas Carol . . . starring Xena: Warrior Princess and Ash from the Evil Dead trilogy.





These have been two Pages from Xena: Warrior Princess/Army of Darkness - What . . . Again?! #2. And yes, ladies and gentlemen - this is a real comic, available for purchase at fine comics shops everywhere. God Bless Us, Everyone!

Behold The Next Grant Morrison

I don't know about the rest of you but I would totally would pay cash money to hear this little girl summarize/rewrite both Secret Invasion and Final Crisis:


Once upon a time... from Capucha on Vimeo.

(And if you want to hear the real Grant Morrison speak, feel free to go here. Just make sure you have your speakers turned down and 45 minutes free to get your mind totally blown.)

Gobble Gobble Gobble

Yes, I know, my blogging has fallen by the wayside. Mea culpa. But of course, I have to at least stumble out of my hermit's cave long enough to wish all of y'all a Happy Turkey Day. Celebrate your Thanksgiving like a superhero - eat some turkey and try to catch the tiny man on the dinner table with your forks. The one who catches and eats him gets to make a wish!



See? It's tradition!

Anyhoo, here's a nerdy question - which comic book titles or recent developments in comics are you most thankful for?



Me, I'm thankful for Secret Six. Any book that demonstrates that wacky, nuanced character writing can survive mega-crossover after mega-crossover is something to be truly grateful for.


Oh, and The Sword! Because indie titles rock. I am deeply thankful for any non-Marvel and non-DC comics, really, just because they always surprise me, help keep the markets fun and don't force brain-destroying crossovers on us every summer. And along those lines . . .



Truthfully, I think I am most thankful that Yotsuba &! exists (Mind you, I think you should all go out and buy it instead of reading it online because, well, it's just awesome enough to deserve all your money - consider this link a tasty crack sample). Any story that makes you look at the world with a child's glee and enthusiasm for life is always worth celebrating. Not to mention the gentle innocence and kindness -


Er. Never mind.

And I'm thankful for you, my happy readers. Knowing I'm bringing a bit of comic book sunshine into the hearts of others always cheers me up. Hope your Turkey Day's a delight!

Oh, and I almost forgot - this BONUS VIDEO CONTENT summarizes what the beautiful holiday of Thanksgiving is all about:

Ice Cream Birthday!

Today is my birthday, ladies and gentlemen. Which one is it? Well, I'll give you a hint or three.


Demotivationals



Still nothing? Well, think about ice cream. The wonderful variety of ice creams, specifically, from vanilla to butter brickle (and cake!) to presumably delicious Superman-flavored Ice Cream (I'd probably be more apt to try a Power Girl Ice Cream but to each their own*).

Yes, the variety of ice cream flavors must measure in the dozens, at least. More than 24, certainly, but less than 36. In any case, we can be certain of one thing - I am eating a metric freakin' ton of Ice Cream this year in celebration.
That, and in two years, I totally outlive Jesus! Take that, Son of God! Mind you, if I end up like this guy in 8 years, you all have permission to shun me.

If you feel like celebrating my birthday, feel free to provide me with comic book scans/funny drawings of superheroes/supervillains eating Ice Cream via the comments section or e-mail. I will also accept discussion of awesome ice cream of all kinds. My particular favorite is Raspberry Chocolate Melt from the Boulder-based Glacier Ice Cream (all ice cream made fresh daily!) or possibly their fresh Girl Scout Thin Mint flavor. And of course, any trip to Downtown Denver is incomplete without a visit to Gelazzi.

Yes, everyone from scientists to Andy Kaufman to Sarah McLachlan love Ice Cream. Because you know who doesn't like Ice Cream? Communists, that's who.**



*The LookOut - going for cheap laughs since, well, always. Truthfully, I am really excited about Peej's upcoming new series. While I'm not familiar enough with the character of Terra to get terribly excited, I'm a huge fan of Amanda Conner's art - she's only second to Kevin Maguire in terms of priceless facial expressions in my book. Fingers crossed this series will be well-written and do well - there's way too many good titles getting canceled lately.

**And the lactose-intolerant, of course, but I refuse to discuss Anti-Dairy Racists in my blog. :P

Thoughts on Empowered, Vol. 4

So, I've been a trifle remiss in my reviews (I know, nary a Haiku in sight for months now), but I can't let Empowered, Vol. 4 come out without giving it a glowing, mildly in-depth review. While others have stated the obvious - that Empowered is, as ever, a solidly wonderful series - I feel like I must add a bit to what others (okay, just Chris Sims so far) have said, given my previous opus on the series.

Empowered, Vol. 4 is decidedly the least titillating of all the volumes and this is not a bad thing. Adam Warren forgoes a great deal of playful sex jokes (but not all of them, don't worry) in order to expand Emp's universe into a uniquely Warren-esque world of giant alien organ transplants, Make-A-Wish supervillains and most undeniably, the Goddamn Maid Man. The Gleeful Mad Scientist Adam Warren of The Dirty Pair, Iron Man: Hypervelocity and the tragically unappreciated Livewires is back and in full effect here. The man who brought us the Proust Bomb, Schroedinger's Wankerboy and Hyperintelligent Killer Whales throws out several new bits of Sci-Fi crazy that, while not as immediately geektastic as the volumes listed above, fit as comfortably and organically into Emp's universe as the Caged Demonwulf lays upon her coffee table. He even leavens the fun and games with a few downright gruesome moments but to describe them would take away from the shock of seeing them for yourself. We'll just say that the oft-foreshadowed Willy Pete finally appears in the context of a particularly nasty "Supervillain Team-Up" and leave it at that.

Along with those darker moments mentioned above, there's several surprising character developments that pave the way to a verrrrry interesting Vol. 5 but I'll save that for a later date (or if anyone asks for spoilers in the comments section). I will say that this entire book was beautifully done and the ending made me genuinely grin. Adam Warren gives Empowered and a plethora of her supporting cast character beats that more than make up for any flaws or missteps that he may have made in Vol. 3, adding even greater depth and humanity to the most interesting cast of characters I've read in a superhero comic in years (which reminds me - pre-order the end of Hero Squared). Additionally, never has the reappearance of customized booty shorts been made into a moment deserving of a heroic rock montage.

In short, Volume 4 of Empowered made want to do this:



Thank you and good night!

(Additional videos from Mr. Galifianakis can be found here and here, if you're so inclined.)

BONUS BONUS VIDEO CONTENT:

From Mr. Warren's Deviant Art Page, I must present an amusingly apropos Rock Band video of Empowered and friends responding to their critics:

No mere mortal can resist

While I am usually so much about the Halloween it's scary (see what I did there?), I've been pretty blah this year. Still, after reading Chris Sim's superlative examples of Halloween comics blogging, I have been inspired to post a few holiday appropriate videos.

The Original:





The Massive Filipino Prisoner Dance Remix:



And lastly, the Indian version (or a "translated version", if you prefer):



And lastly, while he's no Vincent Price (but who is?), there's something to be said for hearing Christopher Walken read "The Raven" by Edgar Allen Poe:



So, there you have it really. Have a lovely Halloween and make the most out of your costumed fun - not like this poor guy.



He couldn't have had Alfred or Robin do the shopping on Halloween? Tch. So much for useful sidekicks. But then again, I guess Arkham Asylum isn't going to TP itself.

I laughed at these way more than I should have

Worth it entirely for 3:16

See more funny videos and funny pictures at CollegeHumor.

And I don't recall if I posted this one here before but it always makes me smile.

You're the best around

So, many, many moons ago, the always charming SallyP tagged me with a meme - what's the best comics blog post I've ever read?

It's a toughie. I'm tempted to go with the easy answers and good times. Pointing at smart blogs, linkblogs and folks in the know are tempting as well, but no. Of course, there's always turning towards drama but as they say on the streets, I save the drama for my mama.

I can't really choose just one. I've read blog posts that are thoughtful and inspiring, sweet and charming and ones that just plain confuse and frighten me.

So, if I have to chose just one blog post to say was my favorite (praying I don't snub any of you all whom I read regularly), I'd have to give the nod to this post. The auction may have fallen apart (thanks, DC) but this - this is what comics blogging is all about at it's finest.

Of course, funny memes and pictures of superheroes as hobos are also excellent uses of comics blogging. ;)

Am I Blue?

Linky link links for you all!

I just found an intriguing manga about everyday life. Seems very lovely and subtle.

Speaking of lovely and subtle, have you heard of Twilight Guardian yet? It's a contest-winning story about one girl's quiet misadventures patrolling a suburban neighborhood as a 'superheroine'. I like it quite a bit and plan on buying more of it when it comes out regularly.

And speaking of contest-winners, or at least, contest runner-uppers - I'm intrigued by I Hate Gallant Girl. The premise sounds cute and sort of Empowered-esque. We'll see if it lives up to both the premise and the cute preview.
(SIDEBAR: I sent in four submissions for that contest and while I was a bit saddened that none of them got in, I remember this idea being the one that got my vote out of the top five that did make it.)

And hey, speaking of that title of the post - animated Batman and Blue Beetle ahoy! I want approximately 17 of those little marshmallow amoeba thingies with laser guns as my pets, like, right now. Also, this looks pretty damned fun, no? One nitpick - I kinda wish they'd given Jaime just a little bit of an accent but considering that I'm a Hispanic guy with no accent, I'm totally okay with him not having one. See, that's how much I like this - just one nitpick! Fingers crossed that the rest of the series is just this fun and cute.

And speaking of animated things that amuse me, I hope to try out Spider-Man: Web of Shadows sometime in the future. Geeky confession: playing one of the first Spider-Man video games - with the web-slinging action and movement - was one of those rare moments where a video game made me feel like I was a kid again. I've had a weakness for Spider-Man video games ever since (save for that damnable Atari version and the Ultimate one where the web-slinging dynamic was just a hair off and it drove me a bit nuts). Anyways, this game looks like a lot of fun and I dig all the previously unused Marvel NY residents shown as having guest spots. Luke Cage smashin' stuff is always fun. Of course, I still need to finish Marvel Ultimate Alliance, so it's pretty clear that my Comic Book Video Game Geek-Fu is weak (I'm gonna see Deadpool save the universe someday if it kills me, dang it).

And hey, I know I've been bad about keeping up the blog again. Sorry, folks. I've been a bit blue. But hey, much in the spirit of Batman, I plan on turning my personal bucket of emo into motivation. Or maybe just a stirring jazz song -

So, here's a question

What are you going to be for Halloween?

I was considering creating a Dr. Horrible costume but really, I imagine that costume's gonna be more overexposed this year than tasteless Heath Ledger Joker homages. In the end, I have decided to try for James Bond. I already have both the tuxedo and martini glass, after all. Plus, hey, obscure Buffy joke (I actually was "Military Guy" last year, courtesy of my Paintballing Gear)!

Of course, if you're a lady, there seems to be an endless variety of different and tasteful costumes for you to wear!

See more funny videos and funny pictures at CollegeHumor.

A Thought on Thor

So, here's a confession - I've never been much of a Thor fan (A Doors Fan, yes, A Thor fan, no). I was coaxed into buying a couple issues back in the 90's due to a few timely Excalibur and Spidey crossovers but I never really got into the whole Thor scene. Well, until recently, that is. The current J. Michael Straczynski run is charming the pants off of me, mostly because I find the idea of Asgardians and Oklahomans interacting hilarious. Fraction's mini based on the original mythology - which I quite enjoy, ironically - is also quite decent.

Still, the reasons for this post are twofold. First off, I just heard the movie news about Thor and against all expectations, I'm kinda excited. Kenneth Branagh in talks to direct and a screenplay by the folks behind the surprisingly affecting I Am Legend? Even cynical little old me's kinda intrigued by that one-two punch. But the real reason I had to make this post was the most awesomely, terrible idea I've ever had. An idea that won't leave my brain alone.

Thor's alter-ego is Dr. Donald Blake. He started out as a curse from Odin to provide Thor with humility, given that he's a healer with a bum leg. Now take a minute and think about pop culture - who's the first person people on the street think of when you say "Doctor who walks around with a cane?"



Try to wrap your head around this insane, fanficcy notion that all non-Thor fans are going to immediately jump to, people - Dr. Gregory HOUSE with THE POWER OF AN ASGARDIAN THUNDER GOD.



Coincidentally, that right there? Is the face I made when I first came to this shocking notion.

To borrow a line from Kevin Church - think about it, won't you?

Grrrr, Arrgh

Newer EXALTED cover colors by *AdamWarren on deviantART

So, apologies for Teh Interweb Silence, gang. Things have been a trifle less than rosy in the House of The Lookout and it is you, my loyal readers, whom have suffered as a result. Don't worry, I am not dead from some horrible fate. Just not blogging overmuch.

As way of apology, please enjoy this brief preview of Empowered, Vol. 4.

More to come as time allows . . .

Saving Superman's Home

I know I've been embracing Blogging Silence for the most part lately and I'm sorry about that. It's been a busy, busy month with the DNC being in town. Luckily, I've just come across something that puts a big smile on my face.

Over at his blog, the always excellent Greg Rucka has done two things in one awesome post. He's offered up a touching defense of Superman as a concept and pointed out a massive celebrity auction to help benefit the preservation of Jerry Siegel's childhood home.

Even if you don't find the cause worthy (because you have no souls), the amazing amounts of talent lining up at this auction should grab your attention. If I had the cash, I'd be totally ponying up for a wide variety of these auction prizes. I'd especially want a role in Rucka's new PI series, Stumptown, or for a Jim Lee pin-up with me and Superman (I'd totally have Lee draw Supes as about to kick my ass, just because I find the concept hilarious). Oh, and VIP tickets to The Colbert Report? Wouldn't suck.

Go and read. Hell, donate for free if you've got the spare cash. It's well worth your time.

Flowers for Algernon!

This statistic amuses me greatly due to my primarily dating vegetarians (which is weird because I'm a carnivore through and through).



I really need to catch up on my episodes of The Middleman.

Villains Enlightened

Chris Sims and Mightygodking have put up intriguing, in-depth studies of two of the most well-known supervillains in the world - The Joker and Lex Luthor, respectively. While I might not agree 100% on every particular point, their analyses are brilliantly done and quite worth a read. Additionally, MGK's piece links to a quintessential Lex Luthor story done up in the animated series style by none other than Mark "Wanted" Millar (believe it or not).

And then there's a series of extremely interesting studies of Batman's Rogue Gallery over at a blog ironically named Mindless Ones (who still remind me of Nextwave, btw. Ahhhh, Nextwave. How I miss you). His unique take on Poison Ivy is worth the price of admission alone (thanks for the heads-up, WFA!).

On a happier note . . .

Okay, rant over. I thought I'd put up a few links here for your enjoyment:

- A sweet little love story from people obsessed with fashion and bugs.

- Some free webcomics from Slave Labor Graphics to read are here.

- One of the folks behind the massively hyped Scott Pilgrim series (theoretically to become a motion picture starring the guy from Arrested Development, Superbad and Juno) has put up a comic here (and I'll read it as soon as I can get all the pictures to load properly). Also, note to self: read Scott Pilgrim Vs. series, see what all the fuss is about.

- Nerd Prom 2009 registration is go! I hope to actually attend this or NYCC next year, assuming the tickets don't sell out in the next two seconds.

And now I'm going to collapse on my couch and try to get some much needed sleep.

Late to the party but still worth talking about

I'm probably the last person posting this but there's some serious thoughts on a big problem within ComicCon here. Well worth a read. I seriously hope it spawns an online petition to add something to the ComicCon bylaws to respond to sexual harassment.

The actions described upset me on a variety of levels. I'm furious for the women who were harassed and I'm also incensed by the way these "men" seemed to think that their behavior is somehow acceptable. Is it naive of me to say that I'd hoped - nay, prayed - that we were beyond this? That men at a comic book convention were cool enough and God, grown-up enough to not act like disgusting, entitled cavemen? Any woman who enjoys comics and participates in the comic book industry shouldn't have to deal with a swarm of jackasses living up to the "Immature, Misogynstic Mouthbreather" cliche. A part of me wants to go off on a multitude of angry tangents but I'll rein myself in as much as I can.

The worst part is that I make a genuine effort to think the best of comic book fans (which is, admittedly, not always an easy thing to do sometimes). I try to focus exclusively on the positive parts of this industry that make me happy and show all the good we're capable of achieving. I want to believe that the assholes described in this post are the exception and not the rule. I want to believe that, as a whole, comic book fans of any gender are fun, pleasant and generally awesome people. Call me naive, but I like to think that comics - especially the superhero comics SDCC tends to focus on - are mostly about inspiring people to have a sense of wonder, to implore people to hope and, most of all, to treat those who are different from you a little nicer. If these male comic book fans can't understand the most basic precept of treating another human being with the exact same dignity they'd expect from a total stranger after reading tale after tale where people fight for justice and equality, I have to wonder - what questions should we be asking? Has the superhero comic book industry failed to instill a sense of real, potent equality between the sexes in it's fans? Or does the only real failure fall at the feet of these "men" who just aren't paying attention to the basic laws of human decency?

I'm sorry if this is rant-y and possibly over the top but I tend to take this sort of thing personally. Every asshat who behaves like this at a comic book convention tars the reputation of every other genuinely decent guy at the Con. If I'm going to be attending SDCC next year, I don't think it's asking too much for a standard of behavior, ethics and respect in my fellow attendees. Jesus Christ, this depresses me.

Eat Your Vegetables and Brains

Over at BeaucoupKevin, the good Mr. Church has pointed out a bevy of free, easy-to-read Zombie comics by a variety of great creators, starting with a particularly amusing tale of a multiple choice quiz.



And yes, the above is real - DC created a healthy cookbook for kids and you can now read a few precious pages of it here. There's so much I want to say but I'll just go with this - that Jimmy Olsen looking at the 3-D salad? Kinda freaks my head out.

In honor of Chris Sims' Birthday

If you're not reading Chris Sims' Invincible Super-Blog, you're missing out on the web's premiere factory outlet for superhero facekicking, Silver Age Crack, Buffy comic photomanips and other fine products made of sheer awesome.

In honor of Mr. Sims' 26th Birthday, I present the following. It's no Silver Age Lois Lane kung-fu fighting Robot Cheerleaders but I do hope that the following videos honor him in spirit -

Silver Age Superman Birthday!


And the closest scientists have come to creating a decent Lois Lane facekicking someone to punk rock music!*


Happy 26th, Sims!

*NOTE: I'm not actually all that impressed by Smallville or Erica Durance but facekicking Lois Lane does win them a few points. Plus, catchy song!

The Dark Huntress?

I know that as of late, I seem to be a little Bat-obsessed, but I had a crazy idea while watching The Dark Knight for the second time.

SPOILERS AHOY!

People everywhere are already talking about which villains they'll use in the sequel to The Dark Knight. My thought is this - what if they don't use villains? Not in the strictest sense of the word, that is. What if the next film is mostly about Batman butting heads with Catwoman and The Huntress?

I know, I know - neither of them are as vicious as Heath Ledger's Joker and it sidesteps the whole "Batman Vs. The Terrorists" dynamic they've established in both films (Ra's Al Ghul and his cult of fanatics versus Joker and his cult of personality). But, my God - wouldn't that be the point? They can't return to the themes of this movie without rehashing a certain amount of ground. So why not go to a fresh place?

The most interesting part of the film for me are the BatWannabes, the various guys at the start in homemade costumes who are trying to be like their hero. Despite a working BatSignal and admiration for Batman in the comics, no such movement has existed in the comic books themselves, to my knowledge. It's a testimony to the world that Christopher Nolan has created that the existence of such men feel organic; a natural response by fed-up people to the basic idea of one man making a difference. While I think it's implied that the Batman imitators are flash in the pan and scared off by The Joker, I can only wonder if a similar "Year One"-esque motivation will be used in the third film for not just Catwoman, but perhaps Huntress as well.

As it's implied by the ending of DK, everyone now assumes Batman will and does kill. I feel like the placement of Catwoman in the next film feels almost inevitable, given what happens between Bruce and Rachel in this film, but what if we replace that dynamic with Huntress? Or Selina Kyle also assumes the hype about Batman the murderous vigilante? How does Batman deal with taking down the mob while dealing with one or even two women who are as motivated - albeit not quite as well-armed - as he is? More dangerous than him, even, given their moral flexibility? How tempting would it be for him to fudge his moral code so he can be with a partner who understands him? The crushing loneliness of his existence was hammered home in every frame of Dark Knight, to the point where I do feel like a lack of a love interest in the next film would be unforgivable (and please not, Talia Al Ghul - while she would give the trilogy symmetry, she just doesn't interest me nearly as much as a character).

Now, before anyone freaks out, I'm not saying that a total lack of a more straightforward Batvillain is going to happen or that a lack of a straightforward mustache-twirling bad guy would even be a good thing. But The Penguin? The Riddler? No and no. Too silly in Penguin's case and I honestly can't imagine a Riddler who could stand up to Ledger's Joker.

But Black Mask? Absolutely. Hugo Strange? God, yes. In a mob city as violently destabilized by Batman and the Joker's antics, the idea of a mobster like Black Mask adopting their tactics just makes sense. And Hugo Strange? Seriously, what 'real world' psychiatrist wouldn't be trying to figure out Batman and The Joker at this point? Yes, I know a Harley Quinn appearance would be the most logical thing in the world from that set-up but, in the wake of Mr. Ledger's tragic death, any callbacks to his Joker would have to be tremendously earned. Maybe it's me, but Hugo Strange just feels like he'd fit in beautifully in Nolan's world. The idea of Strange trying to twist the minds of Batman, Catwoman and/or the Huntress as they dance around Gotham's rooftops intrigues the hell out of me. Such a film would be a delight. I feel that these characters and themes would just lend themselves beautifully to Nolan's spot-on character studies and exploration of morality in a confusing world.

Plus, I just plain like Catwoman and Huntress, dang it. :D

Huh. Sorry, the idea of a more Hugo Strange-esque Harley Quinn (funny, sure, but more sadistic and effective) with Catwoman and/or Huntress just simultaneously gave me goosebumps and a twitchy memory of that unfortunate Birds of Prey TV show (so much wasted potential!).

But in any case, after all that rambling, I suppose I should give out my obligatory casting ideas. Hmmmm. The Angelina Jolie as Catwoman rumor doesn't entirely displease me, even if she feels a little on the nose at this point. Huntress? A lot harder to cast. Monica Bellucci would be perfect but for Helena's relative youth and inexperience. Hell, she might still pull it off, given how much fun she seemed to be having in Shoot 'Em Up. Black Mask needs to have an imposing physical presence and the ability to act through a mask - which could really describe a wealth of large, talented male actors these days. Gerard Butler, just as a for instance, might have a lot of fun portraying a psychopathic mobster. And Hugo Strange? I'd love to see what Steve Buscemi could do with a shaved head and thick glasses. And, should they surprise the hell out of me by going that route, Sarah Michelle Gellar might make for a fine Harley Quinn. Just my two cents, in any case.



What do y'all think? Am I crazy? Or do these ideas sound reasonable to anybody else?

Superheroes for Bunnies

Approves:



(Also, Sims approves of bunny usage by proxy. I swear I started this post before reading his blog today. Bunny synchronicity in Teh Blogosphere!)

Disapproves Strongly:



(Wonders why I'm stealing her old schtick)

In the spirit of my last post

Several pages of The Dark Knight coloring book for kids can be found here.

A sample, which I swear I have not photoshopped in any way -

Did I ever tell you how I got my scars?

Most people agree that, while it is brilliant, engaging and beautifully done film, The Dark Knight is not meant to be a feature film for children. Some people, on the other hand, are still willfully insistent/naive enough to think "Batman" = "children's film" and thus force their screaming, crying children to take in a two and a half hour film where *SPOILER!* people are brutally murdered in the throes of nail-biting psychological tension. A lot. I didn't have to deal with any crying kids at my IMAX screening but I've heard horror stories.

I only wish that I were joking. Beyond the anecdotal evidence, I actually came across a comments section on CNN where people argued that it was "stupid" to think Batman wasn't a kid's movie. Swear to God ("SWEAR TO ME!!!"). I couldn't find that link (if I could, I'd forward it to Get Off The Internet post haste), but I did find the following -



While this video was awfully freakin' adorable (Battyke on Tricycle FTW!), I don't know how I feel about kids seeing a flick as, well, dark as The Dark Knight. Of course, kids will watch want they want to watch and there's way, way worse films for them to see (I've seen people with toddlers in R-rated horror films. No kid under 8 should be taken to Grindhouse, fer crissakes). Of course, the guy who read Kraven's Last Hunt when he was, like, 11, probably should just shut the hell up and stop throwing stones.

But hey, at least this way, kids will learn at least one of two important lessons about life.

1. The world is more often than not a messy, ugly place full of moral ambiguity - a place that can only be overcome via obsessive dedication to one's ideals, an unflinching moral code and constant attempts at self-improvement.

2. Or, y'know, that Batman is totally freakin' awesome.

Whichever.

Lookin' Wonderful

So, if you're interested, you can see the trailer for the new animated Wonder Woman DVD here. I liked it but that last line caused a bit of a disconnect. WTF? I mean, on Paradise Island, I thought that "hitting a lady" - i.e. Amazonian combat training and friendly scrapping - would be #2 on the number things done daily.
With #1 being the daily worship of the Goddesses of the Greek Pantheon, of course. What were you thinking was #1? Perverts.

In any case, I'm sure it's just one line taken out of context and therefore no reason to freak out and slam the film. Unlike some fans out there, I am actually capable of not overreacting hysterically to something like one line of dialogue in a minute long preview. Plus, I hear that Gail Simone herself wrote the script and in Gail we trust. Anybody else giddy about the new Secret Six series coming out? I'm gonna miss Knockout and Scandal's relationship - I just got used to and liked the "Klingon-y" version of Knockout, instead of the double-entendre spewing version from early Superboy issues, when they went and killed her off for a crap crossover - but I'm very hopeful that the "A-list BatVillain" in the upcoming series will be Catwoman. A Simone-Catwoman with Catman would be pretty damn interesting, no?

But hey! Back to the subject at hand. Check out this awesome as all hell featurette featuring Keri Russel, Nathan Fillion and Rosario Dawson (aw, Waitress reunion!):



If that doesn't pacify any worries, I don't know what will. I think this looks excessively kick-ass and I LOVE that explanation of the star-spangled bustier.

Your thoughts, gang?

T.G.I.Batman

See more funny videos at Funny or Die

Remember, if you loved me, you'd buy me this t-shirt. Or this one. Or maybe this one or this one. Clearly, I'm not picky.

On Writing for Comics

While it might not be common knowledge, yours truly is gunning to actually write comics some day soon (yes, I know my irregular blogging output doesn't exactly fill you all with confidence in my ability to write 22 pages a month). So, it is with a cheerful heart that I point at these fine resources and stories:

So You Wanna Write A Graphic Novel? - good coverage of the basics and hey, I didn't know that Kirsten Baldock from Isotope Comics wrote a comic! That's awesome. If you've never been to Isotope Comics in San Francisco, btw, it's seriously the hippest, most awesome Comic Book Store in America. Find me another comic book store with leather couches and alcohol-filled signing parties, I double dog dare you. Oh, how I miss you Isotope Comics.

Alan Moore discusses the craft of writing comic books. I own and have been religiously reading "Alan Moore's Writing For Comics" and this makes a very nice supplemental conversation.


Nifty Comics Blogger gets to write Cloak and Dagger series, News at 11. I think this is wonderful news and congratulations to Valerie on achieving her dream. Her triumph gives me hope that I might get a crack at an ongoing Deadpool series one day (fingers crossed, gang!). All I need is to get several years of experience editing in the industry and a large amount of publicity! Sorry, that was unnecessarily cynical of me. Forgive me, for I do plan on buying the crap out of this when it comes out.

A few quick thoughts

If this map is accurate, Smallville was/is in the state of The Flash. This amuses me greatly because that means that, when Supes goes home, everybody's a rabid Flash fan instead of being geeks for Superman. I don't know why that tickles me so much.

Also, check out the new animated Batman team-up series, The Brave and The Bold - now with extra-Blue Beetle!



(In other animated news, the surprisingly awesome Spectacular Spider-Man show is also coming back for a 2nd Season, which pleases me.)


And if you're reading Helen Killer (which of course, you should be already), you might be pleased to know that the fellow behind it is going to take over the writing duties on Black Canary/Green Arrow. I've resisted picking up this title for a long time - mostly because I felt like Black Canary and GA were more interesting and natural-feeling as an on-again/off-again relationship (and also, Ollie annoys me) - but dang it if this doesn't force me to start reading the book.

And in other news, there's some sorta comic book convention going on in San Diego right now. Who knew?

Ice, Ice, Maybe

So, NEWS ITEM - an upcoming solicitation for an issue of Green Lantern Corps says that Ice will propose to Guy Gardner. Some of you out there might recall that I really do like those crazy kids and may suspect that this nuptial news makes me pleased as punch (although really, how pleased can punch be? It's a goddamn fruit drink).

Nevertheless, the accompanying visual - all about the new Star Sapphire-y Love Ring Corps - makes me the cynical part of me think this is all just some nasty Pink Ring Brainwashing scheme that won't last the arc. I really am torn between "SQUEEE!" and "Ooh, You Bastards."

What do y'all think?

"It's a trick. Get an axe."?
Or
"It's a nice day for a White Wedding"?

The Tibetan Graphic Novel of The Dead

While I know most of you come here for the Batman-jokes and a wistful hope that I will post more about Emma Frost (be it naked or clothed), I have decided to help you all understand spirituality instead*. No need to thank me - the look on your faces is more than enough.

Please enjoy this very witty comic book style breakdown of The Tibetan Book of the Dead, courtesy of a gentleman named Thomas Scoville.

*For what it's worth, I think Emma Frost is a Protestant.

If you're a fan of Neil Gaiman's Sandman . . .

You should really go check out this awesome 20th Anniversary of Sandman Poster and the related interview here.

If I wanted to be a huge nitpicky nerd, I'd complain about the lack of Barnabas (is it just me or does Death look like she's trying to pet an invisible dog? Maybe Jill Thompson ran out of time?) but man, it's just so nice to see Fiddler's Green and all the other characters again. This poster is freakin' amazing. Makes me wistful that I don't have the funds to afford a trip to SDCC or, failing that, another volume of Absolute Sandman (I've got Vol. 1 due to the birthday kindness of lovely friends but that's it thus far).

Batman says "Right On!"

Batman and The Joker teach us about Sexual Harassment -

See more funny videos at Funny or Die

Also, Indian food is delicious -

See more funny videos at Funny or Die

And here's an actual, genuine, non-Batman related PSA (sort of) -

See more funny videos at Funny or Die

And if you want even more Batman-related funny, I direct you to this gem unearthed by Beaucoup Kevin.

Screw comics!

I'm blogging about Muppets!

See more funny videos and funny pictures at CollegeHumor.

The LookOut - Slacker or Menace?

Hello, loyal readers! I'm sure all five of you have missed me terribly. Especially you, TV's Summer Glau! Sorry, TV's Summer Glau. Just look how surprised she is that I'm updating again! Priceless. Well, you're very welcome, TV's Summer Glau and so are all of you!*

Seriously, I'm sorry for the long delay in posting. Things have just not been copacetic in the house of The LookOut as of late. Thankfully, I've got a new job and as soon as I get another one, things will be almost entirely back to normal. I may even have money for comics again in two months! Huzzah! The lack of Ellis' Astonishing X-Men, Helen Killer and Simone's Wonder Woman alone are killing me. Don't even talk to me about missing Booster Gold.

On much happier note, Dr. Horrible's Sing-A-Long Blog? Genius. Watch it now before it stops being free online! You know what else is awesome? The Middleman. I guess nothing cheers me up quite like mad science.

Oh, and hey, there's some weird movie coming out this week about a dude who dresses up like a bat or something. Bizarre. Anybody going to see that? I think I might go, even if it means selling bodily fluids, 'cause hey - Maggie Gyllenhaal is in it. I know her much raved about acting skills are the reason everyone's so hyped about this film.** Right? I don't know. Clearly, I don't really follow these "comic book movies".


*TV's Summer Glau has never, and probably will never, read, condone or know of the existence of "Look Out! Here Comes A Comics Blog!". We here at The LookOut apologize for the deceit.

**Fun Trivia Fact - Maggie Gyllenhaal and I have the same birthday! No foolin'.

Hurm

July 17th, 2008. CGI explosion in clip this evening, Billy Crudup on giant greenscreen. The fandom is afraid of it. I have seen its brief preview. The Hollywood is extended flash and the flash is full of stars and if the stars finally gloss over, all the fanboys will moan. The accumulated addition of all their SFX and smashed pumpkins will foam up about their eyeglasses and all the geeks and Alan Moore purists will look up and shout 'Save us!' And I'll look down, and whisper 'Meh.'

They had a choice, all of them. They could have followed in the footsteps of good movies like Iron Man, or Spider-Man. Decent movies, who believed in a continuity's dissolution for a movie's pay. Instead they followed the exacts of Englishmen and scholars and didn't realize that the trail led over a precipice until it was too late. Don't tell me they didn't have a choice. Now the whole PR campaign stands on the brink, staring down into bloody hell, all those purists and intellectuals and hysterical types, and all of a sudden everybody can think of smart-ass things to say.

Waiting for an actual whole movie to critique in all this snark and thunder.

I'm not stuck in this fandom with you.

You're stuck in this fandom with me.