wiki143 - User contributions [en]

Whitman Publishing

2025-05-14T22:54:36Z

141.136.167.114:

{{Short description|American publishing company}}
{{Infobox publisher
| name = Whitman Publishing
| image = Whitman Publishing logo.png
| caption =
| parent = Whitman Brands
| status =
| traded_as =
| predecessor =
| founded = 1915
| founder = 
| successor =
| country = United States
| headquarters = [[Virginia Beach]], Virginia
| distribution =
| keypeople = John Feigenbaum, CEO
| publications = Books, coin folders, coin albums, games, postage stamp albums
| topics =
| genre =
| imprints = H. E. Harris & Co., Friedberg
| revenue =
| owner =
| numemployees = 50
| website = {{URL|https://www.whitman.com|whitman.com}}
}}

'''Whitman Publishing''' is an American book publishing company which started as a subsidiary of the [[Western Publishing|Western Printing & Lithographing Company]] of [[Racine, Wisconsin]]. In about 1915, Western began printing and binding a line of juvenile books for the Hamming-Whitman Publishing Company of Chicago. A few years later Hamming-Whitman went bankrupt, and Western took over the company, found success in selling the inventory of low-cost juvenile books, and formed the Whitman Publishing Company.<ref name= "Brown">Brown, David & Virginia, ''Whitman Juvenile Books Reference & Value Guide'', page 5, Collector Books, 1997</ref>

Whitman now primarily produces [[Coin collecting|coin]] and [[Stamp collecting|stamp]] collecting books and materials. The company was owned by Anderson Press until October 2023 when it was sold to CDN Publishing, LLC, home of the [https://www.greysheet.com/publications/greysheet Greysheet].<ref name="knox">{{Cite web | title = Entrepreneur seeks new channels as media goes digital | access-date = 2017-12-11 | url = http://www.knoxnews.com/business/entrepreneur-seeks-new-channels-as-media-goes-digital-ep-407408851-358417571.html | archive-date = 2016-09-25 | archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20160925174452/http://www.knoxnews.com/business/entrepreneur-seeks-new-channels-as-media-goes-digital-ep-407408851-358417571.html | url-status = live}}</ref> The combined companies now operate under the global brand name of [https://whitmanbrands.com/ Whitman Brands].<ref>{{cite web |last1=Coin World Staff |title=CDN Publishing acquires Whitman Publishing |url=https://www.coinworld.com/news/us-coins/cdn-publishing-acquires-whitman-publishing |website=Coin World |publisher=Amos Media |access-date=23 February 2025}}</ref>

==Children's book publisher==
[[File:Strongheart-Book-1926-FC.jpg|thumb|1926 children's book cover]]
From the early 1900s to the mid-1980s, Whitman was a popular [[children's book]] publisher. For decades it was a subsidiary of [[Western Publishing|Western Publishing Company]]. In 1933 the company signed a licensing contract with [[Walt Disney]] to produce books based on Disney cartoon characters, such as [[Mickey Mouse]], [[Donald Duck]], and [[Goofy]].<ref name="Hunt">[https://www.newspapers.com/image/376501900/?terms=%22Mel%20Lyle%22&match=1 Ridgely Hunt, Joy is a Fuzzy Fuzzy Santa Claus, ''Chicago Tribune Magazine'', November 22, 1964, page 234]</ref>

Books about film and television dog stars, including [[Rin-Tin-Tin]]<ref name="Jones">Jones, Diane McClure & Jones, Rosemary, ''Boys' & Girls' Book Series – Real World Adventures'', pages 15, 156, Collector Books, 2002</ref> and [[Strongheart]],<ref>{{cite book |last=Trimble |first=Laurence |author-link=Laurence Trimble |date=1926 |title=Strongheart; The Story of a Wonder Dog |location=Racine, Wis. |publisher=Whitman Publishing Company |oclc=4451141}}</ref> were published.

Whitman also published [[Whitman Authorized Editions]] with stories featuring fictionalized versions of popular actresses of the 1940s and, later, novels based upon popular television shows, such as ''[[Captain Kangaroo]]'', ''[[The Patty Duke Show]]'', and ''[[The Beverly Hillbillies]]''.<ref name="Hunt" />

One of Whitman's most popular mystery series was ''[[Trixie Belden]]''. In 1977 they launched the Trixie Belden Fan Club, and issued a lower-priced paperback book format of the series. At the time some booksellers stated that the Trixie Belden books were more popular than ''[[Nancy Drew]]'' and ''[[The Hardy Boys]]'' books.<ref>[https://www.newspapers.com/image/743290101/?terms=%22Trixie%20Belden%22&match=1Trixie Belden series spans reader generation, ''Sun Herald'' (Biloxi, Mississippi), October 9, 1997, page 27]</ref> Other children's book series were ''[[Meg Duncan]]'' and ''[[Power Boys]]'' ''Adventure''.<ref name= "Brown"/>

Whitman published the [[Big Little Book series|Big Little Books]] and Better Little Books. The early Big Little Books had print runs of 250,000 to 350,000 for each title, with no reprints.<ref name="Jones" />

They also published illustrated card games including [[War (card game)|War]], [[Hearts (card game)|Hearts]], [[Fish (card game)|Fish]], [[Old Maid (card game)|Old Maid]], and [[Crazy Eights]].<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.retrojunk.com/article/show/1387/trip-to-the-store-with-grandma|title=Trip to the store with Grandma | Retro Junk Article|website=www.retrojunk.com|access-date=2021-10-27|archive-date=2020-08-14|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200814084222/https://www.retrojunk.com/article/show/1387/trip-to-the-store-with-grandma|url-status=live}}</ref>

==Coin and stamp collecting products==
By the mid-1930s Whitman began a line of "coin boards" that helped popularize the coin collecting hobby. ''Whitman's Handbook of United States Coins'' was first published in 1942. The first edition of ''Whitman's Guide Book of United States Coins'' (the "Red Book") was published in 1946.<ref>[https://www.coinbooks.org/esylum_v15n17a07.html The E-Sylum: Volume 15, No. 17, article 7, April 22, 2012]</ref>

This started an expanding line of books aimed at [[numismatist]]s. The line continued as Western was sold to [[Mattel]] in 1982, then was spun off and renamed Golden Books Family Entertainment. The new company sold Whitman Coin Products and other adult lines to [[St. Martin's Press]]. St. Martin's, in turn, sold Whitman Coin Products to the [[Henry Ellis Harris|H.{{nbsp}}E. Harris]] company, another publisher that specialized in coin and postage stamp collecting materials. H.{{nbsp}}E. Harris was then renamed Whitman Publishing, which continues to produce primarily coin and postage stamp collecting books materials.<ref>{{cite web |title=History |url=https://whitman.com/about-us/history/ |website=whitman.com |access-date=May 26, 2021 |archive-date=May 26, 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210526085225/https://whitman.com/about-us/history/ |url-status=live}}</ref>

The most successful title published by Whitman is ''A Guide Book to United States Coins''. Popularly referred to as "[https://whitman.com/books-by-series/red-book-blue-book/ The Red Book]", the 2026 edition is the 79th annual in the series. Over 25 million copies have been sold since its first publication, with over 200,000 copies selling every year.

As of November 2023, Whitman Publishing is owned by CDN Publishing<ref name="knox"/> and operates under the global brand name of Whitman Brands. As of 2025, Whitman was also publishing books on other topics in addition to the coin and postage stamp collecting materials and books.<ref>{{cite web | title=New and Upcoming Releases | date=May 2017 | publisher=Whitman Publishing | url=https://www.whitman.com/store/Inventory/Browse/New-and-Upcoming-Releases | access-date=June 2, 2017 | archive-date=June 11, 2017 | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170611070136/https://www.whitman.com/store/Inventory/Browse/New-and-Upcoming-Releases | url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{cite book | author=Putnam, Norbert | author-link=Norbert Putnam | title=Music Lessons Vol. 1: A Musical Memoir | year=2017 | publisher=Whitman Publishing | isbn=978-1618500908 | url=https://www.amazon.com/s/ref=nb_sb_noss?url=search-alias%3Dstripbooks&field-keywords=Norbert+Putnam+Music+Lessons%3A+A+Musical+Memoir | access-date=June 2, 2017}}</ref>

==Gallery==
[[File:Lincoln Cents, 1941-1974.png|thumb|center|700px|A [[coin folder]] featuring Lincoln cents ranging in date from 1941 to 1974]]

==References==
{{Reflist}}

==External links==
* {{official website|http://www.whitman.com}}

{{Authority control}}

[[Category:Book publishing companies of the United States]]
[[Category:Numismatics]]

Vicki Barr Flight Stewardess Series

2025-05-14T22:38:26Z

141.136.167.114:

{{Short description|Mystery series for girls by Helen Wells}}
{{more citations|date=April 2022}}
{{Infobox book series
| name = Vicki Barr, Flight Stewardess
| image = VivkiBarrv1.jpg
| image_caption = First volume in the series
| books = ''{{unbulleted list|Silver Wings for Vicki|Vicki Finds the Answer|The Hidden Valley Mystery|The Secret of Magnolia Manor|The Clue of the Broken Blossom|Behind the White Veil|The Mystery at Hartwood House|Peril Over the Airport|The Mystery of the Vanishing Lady|The Search for the Missing Twin|The Ghost at the Waterfall|The Clue of the Gold Coin|The Silver Ring Mystery|The Clue of the Carved Ruby|The Mystery of Flight 908|The Brass Idol Mystery}}''
| author = {{unbulleted list|[[Helen Wells]] (vol. 1-4, 9-16)|[[Julie Campbell Tatham]] (vol. 5-8)}}
| illustrator =
| cover_artist =
| country = United States
| language = English
| genre = [[Mystery fiction|Mystery]]
| publisher = [[Grosset & Dunlap]]
| pub_date = 1947–1964
| media_type = Print
| number_of_books = 16
| list_books =
| oclc =
| preceded by =
| followed by =
| website =
}}
'''Vicki Barr''' is a popular mystery series for girls published by [[Grosset & Dunlap]] from 1947 to 1964. [[Helen Wells]] (1910–1986) wrote volumes #1-4 and 9-16, and [[Julie Campbell Tatham]] (1908–1999), the creator of ''[[Trixie Belden]]'', wrote volumes #5-8.

==List of titles==
{| class="wikitable"
!#
!Title
!Copyright
|-
|1
|Silver Wings for Vicki
|1947
|-
|2
|Vicki Finds the Answer
|1947
|-
|3
|The Hidden Valley Mystery
|1948
|-
|4
|The Secret of Magnolia Manor
|1949
|-
|5
|The Clue of the Broken Blossom
|1950
|-
|6
|Behind the White Veil
|1951
|-
|7
|The Mystery at Hartwood House
|1952
|-
|8
|Peril Over the Airport
|1953
|-
|9
|The Mystery of the Vanishing Lady
|1954
|-
|10
|The Search for the Missing Twin
|1954
|-
|11
|The Ghost at the Waterfall
|1956
|-
|12
|The Clue of the Gold Coin
|1958
|-
|13
|The Silver Ring Mystery
|1960
|-
|14
|The Clue of the Carved Ruby
|1961
|-
|15
|The Mystery of Flight 908
|1962
|-
|16
|The Brass Idol Mystery
|1964
|}

==See also==
{{portal|Children's literature}}
* [[Stratemeyer Syndicate]]

== External links ==
* [http://www.series-books.com/vickibarr/vickibarr.html Vicki Barr, Flight Stewardess]

{{Baby Boomer Series}}

{{DEFAULTSORT:Vicki Barr Flight Stewardess Series}}
[[Category:Book series introduced in 1947]]
[[Category:Juvenile series]]
[[Category:American novel series]]
[[Category:American mystery novels]]
[[Category:Aviation novels]]
[[Category:Children's mystery novels]]
[[Category:Fictional American detectives|Barr, Vicki]]

{{child-novel-stub}}

Power Boys

2025-05-14T22:17:41Z

141.136.167.114:

{{Short description|Series of juvenile mystery novels}}
{{Italic title}}
[[Image:Power Boys cover The Mystery of the Haunted Skyscraper.jpeg|thumb|The cover of the first ''Power Boys'' mystery.]]
The '''''Power Boys''''' are a series of six juvenile mystery novels that were published from 1964 to 1967 by [[Whitman Publishing]].<ref>[https://c.web.umkc.edu/crossonm/powerboys.htm University of Missouri-Kansas City book series listing]</ref> The books were written by Mel Lyle, a pseudonym,<ref name="Hunt">[https://www.newspapers.com/image/376501900/?terms=%22Mel%20Lyle%22&match=1 Ridgely Hunt, Joy is a Fuzzy Fuzzy Santa Claus, ''Chicago Tribune Magazine'', November 22, 1964, page 234]</ref> and illustrated by Raymond Burns.<ref name= "Jones">Diane McClure Jones & Rosemary Jones, ''Boys' & Girls' Book Series – Real World Adventures'', page 149, Collector Books, 2002</ref>

The books were aimed at the pre-teen market.<ref>Deborh L. Ruff, Ph.D., ''Losing Our Minds, Gifted Children Left Behind'', page 341, Great Potential Press, 2005</ref>

==The characters==
Jack Power (age 17), Chip Power (age 15), and their Dalmatian dog, Blaze, live with the boys' [[Photojournalism|photojournalist]] father Thomas Power. Since the death of their mother Jack and Chip travel with Mr. Power during school vacation<ref name= "Kidnapping">''The Mystery of the Double Kidnapping'', pages 21–22, Whitman Publishing Company, 1966</ref> and come upon mysteries, which they investigate.

'''Jack Power''' is described as being tall and slender, with reddish-brown hair cut short, and he has green eyes and freckles. He is portrayed as more serious and dependable than his younger brother.<ref name= "Skyscraper">''The Mystery of the Haunted Skyscraper'', pages 11, 13, 19, 211, Whitman Publishing Company, 1964</ref>

'''Chip Power''' is slim, almost as tall as Jack, has blond hair with reddish glints, and his eyes are blue. He is more impulsive, and sometimes his eyes or face are described as mischievous.<ref name= "Skyscraper" />

'''Thomas Power''' is about as tall as Jack, but looks shorter because he is of heavier build. His hair is black and streaked with premature grey. The boys and their father are portrayed as very close to each other.<ref name= "Skyscraper" />

'''Detective James Wilson''', of the New York Police Department, is a tall man with white hair and gray eyes. He is Mr. Power's oldest and dearest friend.<ref name= "Lady">''The Mystery of the Vanishing Lady'', pages 7–9, 51, 54, Whitman Publishing Company, 1967</ref>

'''Dick Donovan''' looks very similar to Jack – tall and lean, with red hair and freckles.<ref name= "Kidnapping" /> He is the son of wealth Barry Donovan, and appears in the last two novels.

'''Blaze''' is a Dalmatian dog that Mr. Power bought from a Los Angeles fireman. The Dalmatian joined the family at the end of the first book, after Mr. Power returned from covering a brush fire that threatened Griffith Park. His name was chosen because of his firefighter connection.<ref name= "Skyscraper" />

==Book titles and settings==
The six books in the series are as follows:<ref>[https://c.web.umkc.edu/crossonm/powerboys.htm University of Missouri-Kansas City WorldCat Holdings]</ref><ref>David & Virginia Brown, ''Whitman Juvenile Books'', pages 82–83, Collector Books, 1997</ref>

# ''The Mystery of the Haunted Skyscraper'' (1964)
# ''The Mystery of the Flying Skeleton'' (1964)
# ''The Mystery of the Burning Ocean'' (1965)
# ''The Mystery of the Million-Dollar Penny'' (1965)
# ''The Mystery of the Double Kidnapping'' (1966)
# ''The Mystery of the Vanishing Lady'' (1967)

In ''The Mystery of the Double Kidnapping'' Jack tells his new friend, Dick Donovan, that he lives in Chicago,<ref name= "Kidnapping" /> but none of the books take place there, since the Power boys travel with their father during vacations. Three of the books are set in New York City (books 1, 5, and 6), but it is not until the third of these New York books, which is the last in the series, that the family makes the city their new home, since Barry Donovan, a wealthy man who appeared in book five, could supply Thomas Power with a lot of future work. The first paragraph of this last book tells how much the brothers love their new eight-room apartment. Mrs. Donovan helped with the decorating.<ref name="Lady" />

Book 2, ''The Mystery of the Flying Skeleton'', takes place in the [[Florida Keys]] before and during a hurricane;<ref>''The Mystery of the Flying Skeleton'', Whitman Publishing Company, 1964</ref> book 3, ''The Mystery of the Burning Ocean'', takes place in [[Bermuda]];<ref>''The Mystery of the Burning Ocean'', Whitman Publishing Company, 1965</ref> and book 4, ''The Mystery of the Million-Dollar Penny'', takes place in the [[Ozarks]].<ref>''The Mystery of the Million-Dollar Penny'', Whitman Publishing Company, 1965</ref>

==Editions==
The books were published with illustrated hard covers, but no dust jackets.<ref name="Jones" /> Raymond Burns's line illustrations were done in a single color, which varies from book to book.

==Series authors==
It is likely that the series was written by two authors. William Larson, an editor hired by Whitman in 1964, stated that if more than one book in a series was published in a year, they were almost always written by different people.<ref>Melanie Knight, ''Schoolgirl Shamuses, Inc.'', page 213, SynSine Press, 2006</ref> A 1964 article stated that sometimes two authors write under the same pseudonym, "such as Julie Campbell or Mel Lyle", but Whitman restricted the writers under one byline "because juvenile readers detect differences in style and send letters of complaint".<ref name="Hunt" />

William Manners (the pen name of William Rosenberg)<ref>[https://www.newspapers.com/image/285356018/?terms=%22William%20Rosenberg%20dies%22 David B. Ball, Author William Rosenberg dies, ''The Times Recorder'' (Zanesville, Ohio), September 8, 1994, page 1]</ref> wrote a series of mystery novels for Whitman Publishing,<ref>[https://www.newspapers.com/image/294201930/?terms=%22William%20Manners%22&match=1 Norris F. Schneider, Book By Former Zanesville Man Receives Rave Review, ''The Times Recorder'' (Zanesville, Ohio), February 15, 1970, page 7]</ref> but there are no published sources stating who wrote the ''Power Boys'' series.

==Continuing interest in book series==
The Power Boys mysteries are of interest to many who collect classic children's series books. In 1986 ''The Armchair Detective'' reported that the Summer 1986 issue of ''Mystery & Adventure Series Review'' published an article suggesting that the Power Boys author (or authors) may have borrowed ideas from other Whitman Publishing series.<ref>Walter Albert, "Power Boys" (''Detective Mystery Fiction'' supplement), ''The Armchair Detective'', Winter 1986, page 60</ref> The October 2010 issue of ''Yellowback Library'' has a review of ''The Mystery of the Flying Skeleton'',<ref>N. J. Nagle, Hurricane Season Greetings! The Power Boys brave the elements to solve ''The Mystery of the Flying Skeleton'', ''Yellowback Library'', October 2010, pages 5–6</ref> and the May 2011 issue of ''Susabella Passengers and Friends'' contains a review of the entire series, and asks subscribers if they know who wrote the books, using the pseudonym of Mel Lyle.<ref>Anthony Rossi, Power Boys Series and Cover Art, ''Susabella Passengers and Friends'', May 2011, pages 38–42</ref>

==Other Power Boys books==
During the 1950s a series of short paperback ''Power Boys'' novels were published by Triple Nickel Books. These novels were written by Arthur Benwood, and told of the adventures of Ted and Steve Power. The books sold for fifteen cents each (three nickels).<ref>[http://www.thetoppsarchives.com/search/label/Triple%20Nickel%20Books Triple Nickel Power Boys series]</ref>

==References==
{{Reflist}}

==External links==
{{Portal|Children's literature}}
* [http://www.foxall.com.au/users/mje/PowrBoys.htm Power Boys website]

{{Baby Boomer Series}}

{{DEFAULTSORT:Power Boys}}
[[Category:Book series introduced in 1964]]
[[Category:American young adult novels]]
[[Category:Characters in detective novel series]]
[[Category:Characters in young adult book series]]
[[Category:Fictional amateur detectives]]
[[Category:Juvenile series]]
[[Category:Novel series]]
[[Category:Children's mystery novels]]

Ginny Gordon

2025-05-14T22:10:40Z

141.136.167.114:

{{Short description|Series of juvenile mystery novels}}
[[File:Ginny Gordon Cover.jpeg|thumb|Cover of first Ginny Gordon mystery]]

'''Ginny Gordon''' is the main character in a series of five mystery books for adolescent girls published by the [[Whitman Publishing]] company of [[Racine, Wisconsin]]<ref>David & Virginia Brown, ''Whitman Juvenile Books'', pages 48 - 49, Collector Books, 1997</ref> from 1948 to 1956. The books were written by [[Julie Campbell Tatham]], writing as Julie Campbell. Margaret Jervis was the illustrator.

In 1947 the Whitman Publishing Company was seeking juvenile mystery and adventure book series, and Tatham sent them an outline and sample chapters of ''The Swap Shop Mystery'', with Ginny Gordon as the heroine. The publisher liked the story, and it became ''Ginny Gordon and the Mystery of the Disappearing Candlesticks''.<ref name= "Kelly">Ernie Kelly, Interview with Julie Campbell Tatham, ''The Whispering Watchword'', September 1996, page 27</ref>

Tatham considered Ginny Gordon to be "a little sophisticated for the time", and she had added a sense of romance between Ginny and John. Whitman dropped the series after five books so the author could concentrate on ''[[Trixie Belden]]'' books, the second series begun by Tatham.<ref name= "Kelly" />

==Characters==
'''Ginny Gordon''' is fourteen years old, has brown eyes and chestnut curly hair, and lives in Harristown, New York. She has an interest in solving mysteries. Her father is the owner and publisher of the ''Harristown News'', the local newspaper.<ref name= "Ginny">Julie Campbell, ''Ginny Gordon and the Mystery of the Disappearing Candlesticks'', pages 11 - 25 & 43, Whitman Publishing, 1948</ref>

'''Lucy Tryon''' has blonde hair. She is Ginny's best friend, and only recently moved to the area. Lucy is more reluctant than her friend to become involved in solving mysteries, but is willing to help when needed.<ref name= "Ginny" />

'''John Blaketon''' is fifteen years old, has thick black hair, and his hobby is carpentry. He is often the voice of reason, trying to keep Ginny out of trouble.<ref name= "Ginny" />

'''Whiz Reilly''' is John's thirteen year old twin cousin. He has freckles and red hair, and likes to tease Ginny. Whiz can repair most items that are run by electricity.<ref name= "Ginny" />

'''Babs Reilly''' is John's other thirteen year old twin cousin. She has freckles and red-gold pigtails, and often tells people clues that Ginny wishes had remained a secret.<ref name= "Ginny" />

Ginny, Lucy, John, Whiz and Babs belong to a club entitled the Hustlers. Though Ginny is the only club member actively seeking a mystery to solve, all of them help with investigations, and discover clues.<ref name= "Ginny" />

==Books in series==
# ''Ginny Gordon and the Mystery of the Disappearing Candlesticks'' (1948). The Hustlers start a swap shop as a money-making project, but have to solve the disappearance of two of Ginny's Great-Aunt Betsy's four heirloom silver candlesticks.<ref name= "Ginny" />
# ''Ginny Gordon and the Missing Heirloom'' (1950). The Hustlers still have the swap shop, but now old Mrs. Arnold's pin is missing from a box she consigned to the shop, but now wants back. Ginny suspects someone wants to take over Mrs. Arnold's estate.<ref>Julie Campbell, ''Ginny Gordon and the Missing Heirloom'', pages 16, 61- 62, Whitman Publishing, 1950</ref>
# ''Ginny Gordon and the Mystery of the Old Barn'' (1951). The Hustlers sold the swap shop and now have a snack barn as a hangout for young people. Two criminals accidentally leave money at the snack barn.
# ''Ginny Gordon and the Lending Library'' (1954). The Hustlers' latest project is a subscription lending library, and someone keeps trying to steal a popular novel.
# ''Ginny Gordon and the Broadcast Mystery'' (1956). The Hustlers plan a used book sale at their lending library, and a rare and valuable book of Mrs. Arnold's is mistakenly donated. When Mrs. Arnold tries to recover the book, all the Hustlers are certain it wasn't sold, but it cannot be found. A radio station asks Ginny to do a program on books.

==References==
{{Reflist}}

==External links==
* [http://seriesbooks.info/ginnygordon.htm Ginny Gordon site]

{{Baby Boomer Series}}

{{DEFAULTSORT:Gordon, Ginny}}
[[Category:Book series introduced in 1948]]
[[Category:Characters in young adult book series]]
[[Category:Female characters in literature]]
[[Category:Literary characters introduced in 1948]]
[[Category:Characters in American novels of the 20th century]]
[[Category:Juvenile series]]
[[Category:Children's mystery novels]]

Wheel Squad

2025-05-14T22:04:10Z

141.136.167.114:

{{Use dmy dates|date=August 2019}}
{{Infobox television
| image = Wheels 607.jpg
| caption = The main characters: Akim, Bob, Jessica and Johnny
| genre = Adventure [[Comedy drama]] [[Action film|Action]]
| runtime = 22 minutes
| creator = Olivier Dehors
| starring =
| country = France Italy Australia
| producer = Giovanna Milano
| director = Jean-François Galataud
| company = [[France Animation]] [[:fr:Praxinos|Praxinos Animation]] [[Rai Fiction]] Energee Entertainment
| composer = Terra Sonica
| executive_producer = Marie-Pierre Journet Andy Evans
| network = [[M6 (TV channel)|M6]] (France) [[RAI]] (Italy)
| first_aired = {{Start date|2000|09|06}}
| last_aired = {{End date|2002}}
| num_seasons = 2
| num_episodes = 39
| list_episodes =
}}

'''''Wheel Squad''''' is an animated television series produced by [[France Animation]], [[:fr:Praxinos|Praxinos Animation]], [[Rai Fiction]] and Energee Entertainment. The show was broadcast on [[M6 (TV channel)|M6]] in France between 2000 and 2002. 39 episodes were produced.<ref name=Crump>{{cite book |last1=Crump |first1=William D. |title=Happy Holidays—Animated! A Worldwide Encyclopedia of Christmas, Hanukkah, Kwanzaa and New Year's Cartoons on Television and Film |date=2019 |publisher=McFarland & Co |isbn=9781476672939 |pages=289–290}}</ref>

==Plot==
Set in a large, dark metropolis, the protagonists Akim, Jessica, Bob and Johnny are four young geniuses who love extreme sports and together form the staff of the Wheel Squad. The four live in a neighborhood situated on a hill and are constantly in conflict with various villains trying to cause mayhem in the streets such as the trio of bandit bikers Snakes, or the greedy Enzo, assistant to Mr. Rotter who is the owner of rich company World Mart. There is also Emilie, the daughter of Mr. Rotter and Bob's girlfriend, who is an ally of Wheels and tries to make the team.

==Characters==
===Wheel Squad===
* Akim Souab is the leader of the Wheel Squad. Akim also excels in roller skates. He has more siblings than any other member of the Wheel Squad and is the eldest child of his parents. His father owns the local grocery shop and he usually helps with the work there.
* Jessica is the second-in command and the only female (if not counting Emilie) of the Wheel Squad. She dreams about becoming an actress and works up that dream by acting and even directing school plays. Her father works in England and only made one appearance in the series. When her mother threatened to leave town for not having resources to fix her beauty parlour she pretended to date Akim (who is oblivious to the fact Jessica really loves him) so she would stay. She once entered an ice skating contest where she was taunted by girls who said she couldn't win for not being feminine. When the Wheel Squad boys couldn't say she was feminine and her mother scolded her saying she was in no condition to complain about that since she acts and dresses like a boy she reluctantly asks for Emilie's help. Her wheel specialty is roller skates.
* Bob Gueye is the black member of the group. He is the only member of the Wheel Squad who is not good at roller skates, which was noted mainly when they agreed to catch a burglar at World-Mart (they only agreed when the burglar robbed Jessica's Mom's beauty parlour which is located at World-Mart) and when they created a team of rollerball (each team needed four members) and they tried to encourage him saying they needed someone to miss the basket. He is an expert in [[mountain bike]]s.
* Johnny Pilleu is the skateboard expert of the group. He is an excellent artist, having once painted the school front wall to increase his grades so his parents would not send him to [[summer school]].
* Emilie is a rich girl who is friends with the Wheel Squad. She is a blonde who usually wears blue and can afford the fanciest things available since her stepfather is the wealthy owner of the World-Mart. She is spoiled and isn't good at any wheels, which consists the main reason she is usually not considered a member of the Wheel Squad despite her many attempts to join the gang. Jessica is the one who most despises the idea of Emilie joining the Wheel Squad and is the most reluctant whenever they need her help.

===The Snakes===
The Snakes are the local vandals of the show and are willing to do anything for money, even forcing little kids into their dirty schemes. They are Willy, Cactus and Alex.

* Willy is the leader of the group and is the one who comes up with the plans.
* Cactus is a short and skinny boy who is allergic to several things through the series. He once tried to counter this by covering his face with his shirt but it backfired when his friends couldn't understand a thing he said from inside the shirt.
* Alex is the seemingly dumbest member of the Snakes and wears a red jumpsuit with a matching cap.

In one episode Jessica had a crush on a boy who was later revealed to be a fourth Snake, who after that only returned to the series when the Snakes created a rollerball team and needed a fourth member.

===Supporting===
* Mr. Rotter is the owner of the World-Mart. He is a respected businessman and the stepfather of Emilie. He treats Emilie like they really were father and daughter. While she knows he isn't her biological father (who is never seen or heard of), as evidenced by the fact that she describes him as her stepfather whenever she mentions him in conversations with her friends, she calls him Dad. Mr. Rotter has a collection of ties he likes to the point of ironing them by himself rather than having anybody else touch them.
* Enzo is the manager of the World-Mart. He usually tries to take advantage of this position to score some dirty money, but the Wheel Squad foils his plans. Some of these plans include purchasing low-quality paint and secretly re-selling it when Mr. Rotter tells him to throw it away, thinking nobody wants to buy it. The plan meets an obstacle when Emilie, knowing that Johnny needs some paint for a school display, suggests Mr. Rotter to donate it in order to improve his public image.
* Hool and Igan are the followers of Enzo. They often have harmful plans of his boss and often persecute Wheel without success.
* Mr. Grunt is the grumpy neighbor of Wheels. He is very rude and is always accompanied by his pet dog Brutus, but in the end is not so bad and loves animals. His name is George.
* Rosalie is Jessica's elder aunt who lives alone in an apartment with the cat Marilyn. She works as an actress in an old movie.
* Sheeba is the owner of the laundry in the neighbourhood. She is a friend of the Wheel and is of Chinese heritage.
* Mr. and Mrs. Pukowiski are a neighbourhood elderly couple who are always in a rough fight and sometimes they are more grumpy than Mr. Grunt.
* Mr. Frank is a mathematics teacher of the Wheel. He helps them from time to time in some situations. His wife is Nadia and he has a daughter named Angela.
* Tom is the younger brother of Bob. He is very ingenuous and always tries to follow his brother in his adventures. He lives with his friends to make promises in exchange for bicycles.
* Akim has three brothers: Samir, Malik, and Arthur, and a sister named Lukya.
* Mr. Souab and Noria are Akim's parents. While she worked as a housewife, she also helps her husband in his grocery store. Noria always worries about their children when they are in danger.
* Tony is Bob and Tom's big brother. He works away from the hill and is not able to see his family except at Christmas. He has also been arrested once.
* Sarah was a skater girl who came to the team and was temporarily a robber at the World Mart because her mother was too poor to support her. Eventually Bob ends up unmasking and she ends up regretting what she did, but ends up getting a job at the World Mart to cover their losses.
* Matt is a very studious boy, but never likes sport until he meets Samir and makes friends with him, and together they face the Snakes.
* Alexandra is a girl with a wheelchair, who at first did not understand well with Akim and always arguing with him, but Akim helps her to escape from the Snakes to participate in a contest.

==Episodes==
# "Hands Off My Brother!"
# "A Rolling Birthday"
# "Seeing Is Believing"
# "A High-Flying Match"
# "Love On The Rocks"
# "Nobody Loves Me"
# "Water, Water Everywhere"
# "Brutus Has Gone"
# "Hero for a Day"
# "The Rebel"
# "In Gear for the School Year"
# "Squab's Deadline"
# "A Lesson in Courage"
# "A Leading Role"
# "Food For Thought"
# "The Missing Lottery Ticket"
# "One Great Girl"
# "School Colours"
# "The Guardian Angels"
# "Stay on Track"
# "The Big Break-In"
# "The Champion"
# "Chill Out On The Butte"
# "A Snowy Homecoming"
# "Beauty on Wheels"
# "A Dad for Jessica"
# "SOS Snakes"
# "Father's Day Race"
# "Stubborn As a Mule"
# "Orangutan-Tang-Tang"
# "A Tike, A Trike, A Fight"
# "Operation Cinderella"
# "Love on the Ice"
# "Phantom of the Butte"
# "Close Call"
# "Emilie's Big Bash"
# "Valentine"
# "Hoa"
# "On Your Skates! Get Set! Go!"

==Broadcasting==
''Wheel Squad'' aired on [[M6 (TV channel)|M6]] in France starting in 2000. In Italy the series aired on [[Rai Tre]] and [[Rai Gulp]], while in Germany it aired on [[kabel eins]] & [[ProSieben]].<ref name=Crump/> In Spain the series aired on [[Fox Kids]], [[Antena 3 (Spain)|Antena 3]] and [[Clan (TV channel)|Clan]]. The English dub of ''Wheel Squad'' aired on [[CITV]] in the United Kingdom, [[Network Ten]] in Australia, and [[Disney Channel (Southeast Asia)|Disney Channel]] in Southeast Asia.

==References==
{{Reflist}}

==External links==
* [http://www.toonarific.com/show.php?show_id=3915 ''Wheel Squad'' at Toonarific]
* [https://www.imdb.com/title/tt0417376/?ref_=ttep_ep_tt ''Wheel Squad'' at IMDB]

{{Rai original series}}
{{Authority control}}

[[Category:2000s French animated television series]]
[[Category:French children's animated action television series]]
[[Category:French children's animated adventure television series]]
[[Category:French children's animated comedy television series]]
[[Category:2000s Italian animated television series]]
[[Category:Italian children's animated action television series]]
[[Category:Italian children's animated adventure television series]]
[[Category:Italian children's animated comedy television series]]
[[Category:Animated sports television series]]
[[Category:Teen animated television series]]
[[Category:Fox Kids]]

Universal Music Distribution

2025-05-14T18:01:07Z

141.136.167.114:

{{Short description|Record label distributor}}
{{Infobox company
| name = Universal Music Distribution
| logo =
| type = [[Distributor]]
| industry =
| fate = Dismantled
| predecessor = 
| successor = 
| founded = 1934
| founder = 
| defunct = 2015
| hq_location_city = [[Los Angeles]], [[California]]
| hq_location_country = [[united States|U.S.]]
| area_served = 
| key_people =
| products =
| owner = 
| num_employees =
| num_employees_year = 
| parent = [[Universal Music Group]]
| website = 
| former_name = Decca Distributing Corporation (1934-1970) MCA Distributing Corp. (1970-1990) Uni Distribution Corporation (1990-1996) Universal Music & Video Distribution (1996-2006)
| trade_name =
| divisions =
}}

'''Universal Music Distribution''' was the primary music distribution unit of parent company [[Universal Music Group]] until 2015 when the company was dismantled.

It oversaw the sales, marketing and distribution activities for [[Universal Music Group|UMG]] labels [[Republic Records]], [[Island Records]], [[Def Jam Recordings]], [[Capitol Music Group]], [[Interscope Geffen A&M Records]], [[Universal Music Group Nashville|UMG Nashville]], [[Verve Music Group]], [[Decca Records|Decca Label Group]], [[Universal Music Latin Entertainment]], [[Universal Music Enterprises]], and [[Varèse Sarabande]].

It also provided [[North America]]n distribution to non-Universal-owned labels such as [[Roc Nation]], [[Big Machine Records]], [[ABKCO Records]], [[Concord Records]], Darksyde Productions Inc and [[Rounder Records]] and handled worldwide distribution for [[Disney Music Group]]'s two labels: [[Walt Disney Records]] and [[Hollywood Records]].<ref>{{cite news|title=Universal Music Group (UMG) & Disney Music Group (DMG) Expand Agreement Globally|url=https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/universal-music-group-umg--disney-music-group-dmg-expand-agreement-globally-199163341.html|access-date=6 May 2013|newspaper=PR Newswire|date=20 March 2013}}</ref>

It also managed distribution and sales for [[Vivendi Entertainment]], the company's home entertainment division, until it was sold to [[Gaiam]] in 2012. Before that, from 1987 to 1992, it managed distribution for [[Artisan Entertainment|LIVE Entertainment]].<ref>{{Cite news |last=McCallaugh |first=Jim |date=February 28, 1987 |title=IVE Is Optimistic About Move To MCA Distribution |url=https://www.worldradiohistory.com/hd2/IDX-Business/Music/Billboard-Index/IDX/1987/1987-02-28-Billboard-Page-0006.pdf |access-date=April 7, 2024 |work=[[Billboard (magazine)|Billboard]] |pages=6, 77}}</ref>

== History ==
=== Dismantling ===
In April 2015, Universal Music Distribution was dismantled to "create even stronger ties between our centralized teams and labels" according to parent company [[Universal Music Group]].<ref>{{Cite news|url=https://www.musicbusinessworldwide.com/universal-music-group-distribution-brand-closed-functions-moved-elsewhere/|title=Universal Music Group Distribution brand closes, functions re-homed - Music Business Worldwide|date=2015-04-26|work=Music Business Worldwide|access-date=2017-12-25|language=en-US}}</ref>

== References ==
{{Reflist}}

[[Category:Record label distributors]]
[[Category:Universal Music Group]]

{{music-company-stub}}

GoodTimes Entertainment

2025-05-14T17:57:52Z

141.136.167.114:

{{Short description|Defunct American home video company (1984–2009)}}
{{Distinguish|Goodtimes Enterprises}}
{{Infobox company
| name = GT Media, Inc.
| former_names = {{ubl|GoodTimes Home Video Corp. (1984–1993)|GoodTimes Entertainment Ltd. (1993–2003)|GT Brands Holdings LLC (2003–2005)}}
| type = [[Subsidiary]]
| logo =
| caption =
| fate = Folded into [[Gaia, Inc.]]
| successor =
| foundation = {{Start date and age|1984}}
| defunct = {{End date and age|2009}}
| location = [[Midtown Manhattan]], [[New York City]]
| industry = [[Home video]] company
| key_people = {{ubl|Kenneth Cayre|[[Joseph Cayre]]|Stanley Cayre}}
| products = {{ubl|[[Public domain]] works and [[anime]]|[[Physical fitness|Fitness]] videos}}
| num_employees =
| parent = {{ubl|[[Quadrangle Group|Quadrangle Capital Partners]] (2003–2005)|[[Gaiam]] (2005–2009)}}
| subsid =
}}

'''GT Media, Inc.''' was an American [[home video]] company that originated in 1984 under the name of '''GoodTimes Home Video'''. Though it produced its own titles, the company was well known due to its distribution of media from third parties and classics. The founders for the company were the brothers Kenneth, Joseph and Stanley Cayre (often referred to and credited simply as the "Cayre Brothers") of [[Salsoul Records]]. Its headquarters were in [[Midtown Manhattan]], [[New York City]]. The company had a distribution facility in [[Jersey City, New Jersey]] and a duplication facility in [[Bayonne, New Jersey]], known as '''GTK Duplicating Co.'''.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.goodtimes.com/info.asp|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20000617222956/http://www.goodtimes.com/info.asp|title=Company Information|website=GoodTimes Entertainment|archive-date=June 17, 2000|access-date=March 15, 2010}}</ref>

Following the bankruptcy, GoodTimes' parent company was sold to [[Yoga]]-focused content company [[Gaiam]] in September 2005.

==History==
GoodTimes began with the distribution of copies of [[public domain]] titles. Though the company also produced and distributed many low-priced [[Physical fitness|fitness]] videos such as the ''29 Minute Workout'' video series, its most recognized line of products were the series of low-budget [[Traditional animation|traditionally animated film]]s from companies such as [[Jetlag Productions]], [[Golden Films]], and Blye Migicovsky Productions, as well as a selection of the works of [[Burbank Films Australia]]. Many of its home-video titles—such as ''[[Aladdin (1992 Golden Films film)|Aladdin]]'', ''[[Beauty and the Beast (1992 film)|Beauty and the Beast]]'', ''Pinocchio'', ''[[Sinbad (1993 film)|Sinbad]]'', ''The Little Mermaid'', ''The Three Musketeers'' and ''Thumbelina''—were [[Mockbuster|named similarly or identically to big-budget animated films from Disney and other major studios]]<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.cartoonbrew.com/dvd/animated-mockbusters-list-94032.html|title=The Ultimate Guide to Animated Mockbusters|last=Edwards|first=C.|work=[[Cartoon Brew]]|date=January 8, 2014|access-date=January 12, 2016|archive-date=March 15, 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170315224606/http://www.cartoonbrew.com/dvd/animated-mockbusters-list-94032.html|url-status=live}}</ref> (though their plots were sometimes very different), and GoodTimes would often release these films close to the theatrical and/or home video releases of the major film studios.

This was largely legal, as the stories of the big-budget films were based on fairy tales and classic literature that had long been in the [[public domain]], and the major studios had little room to claim exclusive rights to the stories or the main characters. [[The Walt Disney Company]] sued GoodTimes in 1993, because the videotape packaging closely resembled Disney's, allegedly creating the potential of confusing consumers into unintentionally purchasing a GoodTimes title, when they instead meant to purchase a film from Disney.<ref>{{Cite news|url=https://www.nytimes.com/1993/09/10/arts/home-video-218293.html|title=Home Video|last=Nichols|first=Peter M.|date=September 10, 1993|work=The New York Times|access-date=November 4, 2017|language=en-US|issn=0362-4331|archive-date=July 2, 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200702182610/https://www.nytimes.com/1993/09/10/arts/home-video-218293.html|url-status=live}}</ref>

As a result of this lawsuit, GoodTimes was required by law to print its name atop all of its future [[VHS]] covers, in order to clearly demonstrate to the public at large that this was not the "[[Blockbuster (entertainment)|blockbuster]]" title that they would be purchasing. Despite these changes, however, GoodTimes continued to produce animated films based on public domain works.<ref>{{cite news | first = Peter | last = Nichols | title = Disney loses suit over Good Times' 'Aladdin' video | date = September 17, 1993 | publisher = Bangor Publishing Company | url = https://news.google.com/newspapers?nid=2457&dat=19930917&id=gp4zAAAAIBAJ&sjid=7TgHAAAAIBAJ&pg=5601,987719 | work = [[Bangor Daily News]] | access-date = December 3, 2013 | archive-date = July 4, 2020 | archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20200704034415/https://news.google.com/newspapers?nid=2457&dat=19930917&id=gp4zAAAAIBAJ&sjid=7TgHAAAAIBAJ&pg=5601,987719 | url-status = live}}</ref>

At the [[Consumer Electronics Show|Summer CES 1985]], GoodTimes launched a home video label Kids Klassics Home Video, which was specifically designed for a children's audience.<ref>{{Cite magazine|date=June 8, 1985|title=Heavy accent on video, CD, hardware at Summer CES|page=96|magazine=[[Billboard (magazine)|Billboard]]|url=https://worldradiohistory.com/hd2/IDX-Business/Music/Billboard-Index/IDX/1985/1985-06-08-Billboard-Page-0096.pdf|access-date=December 27, 2021|archive-date=December 27, 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211227002640/https://worldradiohistory.com/hd2/IDX-Business/Music/Billboard-Index/IDX/1985/1985-06-08-Billboard-Page-0096.pdf|url-status=live}}</ref> The first Kids Klassics videos were 52 different cartoons, which were all meant to be in color and received a 50-50 joint venture with Remco to market the ''[[Mel-O-Toons]]'' cartoons by [[Storer Communications|Storer Broadcasting]].<ref>{{Cite magazine|date=August 17, 1985|title=Firms toy with children's market|page=27|magazine=[[Billboard (magazine)|Billboard]]|url=https://worldradiohistory.com/hd2/IDX-Business/Music/Billboard-Index/IDX/1985/1985-08-17-Billboard-Page-0027.pdf|access-date=December 27, 2021}}</ref> The company made its first licensed client in 1986, by signing a deal with [[Worldvision Enterprises|Worldvision Home Video]] to reissue titles on VHS, through the Kids Klassics label, which were mostly [[Hanna-Barbera]] cartoons.<ref name=":0">{{Cite magazine|last=Bessman|first=Jim|date=May 3, 1986|title=Kids Klassics To Market Titles for Worldvision|page=53|magazine=[[Billboard (magazine)|Billboard]]|url=https://worldradiohistory.com/hd2/IDX-Business/Music/Billboard-Index/IDX/1986/1986-05-03-Billboard-Page-0053.pdf|access-date=December 27, 2021}}</ref>

This was followed in 1987 by signing a deal with major video distributor [[Universal Pictures Home Entertainment|MCA Home Video]] to license these titles to VHS, mainly the [[Universal Pictures]] catalog for a price of $15.<ref name=":1">{{Cite magazine|last=Stewart|first=Al|date=June 20, 1987|title=Lorimar Drops KLV-TV Promotion|page=71|magazine=[[Billboard (magazine)|Billboard]]|url=https://worldradiohistory.com/hd2/IDX-Business/Music/Billboard-Index/IDX/1987/1987-06-20-Billboard-Page-0071.pdf|access-date=December 27, 2021|archive-date=December 27, 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211227005529/https://worldradiohistory.com/hd2/IDX-Business/Music/Billboard-Index/IDX/1987/1987-06-20-Billboard-Page-0071.pdf|url-status=live}}</ref> That year, Goodtimes and Kids Klassics merged their distribution arms to form Goodtimes/Kids Klassics Distribution Corp.<ref>{{Cite news |date=July 22, 1987 |title=Goodtimes In A Merger With Kids Klassics; Will Keep Low Price Policy |page=47 |work=[[Variety (magazine)|Variety]]}}</ref> In the 1990s they expanded the company into GT Publishing, a division of the company that published children's books under the Inchworm Press imprint.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.publishersweekly.com/pw/print/19990208/33608-klusaritz-quits-gt-publishing.html|title=Klusaritz Quits GT Publishing|access-date=July 12, 2017|archive-date=July 2, 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200702183000/https://www.publishersweekly.com/pw/print/19990208/33608-klusaritz-quits-gt-publishing.html|url-status=live}}</ref>

Expanding from [[home video]] distribution, GoodTimes founded its spin-off, [[GT Interactive]] as a way to distribute computer and [[video games]].<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.fundinguniverse.com/company-histories/goodtimes-entertainment-ltd-history/|title=History of GoodTimes Entertainment Ltd. – FundingUniverse|website=www.fundinguniverse.com|language=en|access-date=November 4, 2017|archive-date=November 7, 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20171107011853/http://www.fundinguniverse.com/company-histories/goodtimes-entertainment-ltd-history/|url-status=live}}</ref> This company was sold to the French game publisher [[Atari SA|Infogrames]] in 1999. At different times, GoodTimes contracted with [[Columbia Pictures]], [[NBC]], [[HBO]], [[Worldvision Enterprises]], [[Hanna-Barbera]],<ref name=":0" /> [[Orion Pictures|Orion Home Video]],<ref>{{Cite book|url=https://www.americanradiohistory.com/Archive-Billboard/90s/1993/BB-1993-06-05.pdf|title=30 Orion Pics to GoodTimes|publisher=Billboard|date=June 5, 1993|pages=102}}</ref> [[Universal Pictures]]<ref name=":1"/> and [[Paramount Pictures]] to release inexpensive tapes of many of their films and TV series. In addition, GoodTimes released several compilations assembled from public domain films, film trailers, earlier television programs and newsreels. Most of these were credited to Film Shows, Inc.

In February 2003,<ref name=wsj>{{cite news|last1=Peers|first1=Martin|title=Quadrangle Buys GoodTimes|url=https://proquest.com/docview/398801708|access-date=May 3, 2023|work=[[The Wall Street Journal]]|date=February 10, 2003|page=B4|url-access=registration|via=[[ProQuest]]|archive-date=May 3, 2023|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230503100010/https://www.proquest.com/docview/398801708|url-status=live}}</ref> [[Quadrangle Group|Quadrangle Capital Partners]] purchased GoodTimes Entertainment for $90 million plus $160 million in debt,<ref>{{cite news|url=https://multichannelmerchant.com/news/Gaiam_acquisition_0713/|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20100926172731/http://multichannelmerchant.com/news/Gaiam_acquisition_0713/|last=Del Franco|first=Mark|title=Gaiam Buys Bankrupt Entertainment Firm|date=July 13, 2005|archive-date=September 26, 2010|accessdate=May 3, 2023|work=Multichannel Merchant|publisher=Penton Media}}</ref> and rebranded the company as GT Brands.<ref name=wsj/>

===Bankruptcy and sale to Gaiam===
In July 2005, GT Brands Holdings filed for [[Chapter 11 Bankruptcy]] protection.<ref>{{cite web | url=https://www.bankruptcompanynews.com/oak-point-partners-llc-acquires-remnant-assets-of-the-gt-brands-holdings-llc-et-al-bankruptcy-estates/ | title=Oak Point Partners, LLC acquires remnant assets of the GT Brands Holdings LLC, et al., Bankruptcy Estates | date=November 2021 | access-date=March 22, 2023 | archive-date=March 22, 2023 | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230322154402/https://www.bankruptcompanynews.com/oak-point-partners-llc-acquires-remnant-assets-of-the-gt-brands-holdings-llc-et-al-bankruptcy-estates/ | url-status=live}}</ref> [[Gaiam]] subsequently acquired all of GoodTimes' assets for $40 million.<ref>{{cite web | url=https://variety.com/2005/digital/features/gaiam-grabs-goodtimes-1117925751/ | title=Gaiam grabs Goodtimes | date=July 12, 2005 | access-date=March 22, 2023 | archive-date=March 22, 2023 | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230322154401/https://variety.com/2005/digital/features/gaiam-grabs-goodtimes-1117925751/ | url-status=live}}</ref> The deal was closed that September<ref>{{cite news|url=https://www.bizjournals.com/denver/stories/2005/09/12/daily27.html|title=Gaiam closes GoodTimes Entertainment deal at $35M|work=Denver Business Journal|publisher=bizjournals.com|date=January 13, 2014|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140113100138/http://www.bizjournals.com/denver/stories/2005/09/12/daily27.html|archive-date=January 13, 2014}}</ref> and GT Brands Holdings LLC was renamed as GT Media, Inc.,<ref>[https://web.archive.org/web/20060522190131/http://www.goodtimes.com/GT/corporate/pdf/press/GTE_Gaiam.pdf Gaiam to Acquire Assets of GoodTimes Entertainment]</ref> becoming Gaiam's general-interest label that released films and animation from [[DIC Entertainment]] and [[mockbuster]]s from [[The Asylum]].

By the end of the 2000s, the GT Media brand was no longer used by Gaiam, with the company solely distributing fitness and yoga media under the latter label. In April 2012, the company acquired and merged with [[Vivendi Entertainment]], renaming the combined subsidiary Gaiam Vivendi Entertainment.<ref>{{cite news|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120505104455/http://www.marketwatch.com/story/gaiam-completes-acquisition-of-vivendi-entertainment-creating-gaiam-vivendi-entertainment-the-nations-largest-independent-content-distributor-2012-04-03|work=MarketWatch|url=https://www.marketwatch.com/story/gaiam-completes-acquisition-of-vivendi-entertainment-creating-gaiam-vivendi-entertainment-the-nations-largest-independent-content-distributor-2012-04-03|archive-date=May 5, 2012|title=Gaiam completes acquisition of Vivendi Entertainment, the nation's largest independent content distributor|date=April 3, 2012}}</ref> In October 2013, [[Cinedigm]] purchased Gaiam Vivendi Entertainment for $51.5 million; after this Gaiam had exited the home video industry, with the subsidiary merging with Cinedigm's [[New Video]] to form a standalone distributor under the Cinedigm name.<ref>{{Cite web |url=http://www.newvideo.com/pressroom/release/cinedigm-to-acquire-gaiam-inc-s-entertainment-unit-a-multi-platform-content-licensor-and-distributor/ |title=Cinedigm To Acquire Gaiam, Inc.'s Entertainment Unit, A Multi-Platform Content Licensor And Distributor |access-date=October 20, 2013 |archive-date=October 31, 2013 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20131031064605/http://www.newvideo.com/pressroom/release/cinedigm-to-acquire-gaiam-inc-s-entertainment-unit-a-multi-platform-content-licensor-and-distributor/ |url-status=dead}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|last=McNary|first=Dave|date=October 17, 2021|title=Cinedigm Bulks Up With $51.1 Million Acquisition of Gaiam Vivendi|url=https://variety.com/2013/film/news/cinedigm-bulks-up-with-51-1-million-acquisition-of-gaiam-vivendi-1200735288/|access-date=July 13, 2021|website=Variety|language=en-US|archive-date=July 13, 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210713182641/https://variety.com/2013/film/news/cinedigm-bulks-up-with-51-1-million-acquisition-of-gaiam-vivendi-1200735288/|url-status=live}}</ref>

==Library==
Prior to the company's bankruptcy, GoodTimes Entertainment produced at that time a TV series called ''[[Wulin Warriors]]''. The series was an edited version of ''[[Pili (TV series)|Pili]]'', produced by [[Broadway Video]] and [[Animation Collective]] for [[Cartoon Network]]'s [[Toonami]] block in 2006.

The company also produced the children's musical live action video series ''Treehouse Trolls Birthday Day'' and ''Treehouse Trolls Fun and Wonder'' (1992), the latter being remembered as [[Rachael Harris]]'s first contribution to the film industry.<ref>{{Cite web |title=How old was Rachael Harris in her first movie: The Treehouse Trolls: The Forest of Fun and Wonder (1992)? |url=https://inthatmovie.com/46074-771038/rachael-harris/the-treehouse-trolls-the-forest-of-fun-and-wonder |access-date=December 10, 2023|website=In That Movie |language=en}}</ref>

{{Portal|New York City|Companies}}

==References==
{{Reflist}}

==External links==
* [https://web.archive.org/web/*/http://www.goodtimes.com GoodTimes Entertainment] (archive)
* [https://www.fundinguniverse.com/company-histories/goodtimes-entertainment-ltd-history Company history] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20181226015510/http://www.fundinguniverse.com/company-histories/goodtimes-entertainment-ltd-history/|date=December 26, 2018}} at FundingUniverse

{{Goodtimes}}
{{Authority control}}

{{DEFAULTSORT:Goodtimes Entertainment}}
[[Category:GoodTimes Entertainment| ]]
[[Category:1984 establishments in New York (state)]]
[[Category:2005 disestablishments in New York (state)]]
[[Category:American companies established in 1984]]
[[Category:American companies disestablished in 2009]]
[[Category:Home video companies of the United States]]
[[Category:Home video distributors]]
[[Category:Companies that filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy in 2005]]
[[Category:Defunct companies based in New York City]]
[[Category:Entertainment companies established in 1984]]
[[Category:Mass media companies established in 1984]]
[[Category:Mass media companies disestablished in 2009]]

Pok

2025-05-14T12:44:49Z

141.136.167.114:

{{wiktionary|pok|pók|pök|рок}}
'''Pok''' or '''POK''' may refer to:
* [[Pakistan-occupied Kashmir]], the name used by India for the portion of Kashmir under Pakistani administration
* [[Pantoate kinase]] or PoK, an enzyme
* [[P.O.K.]] (''Podosfairikes Omades Kentrou''), a former coalition of football teams of Athens
* [[Pok (genus)]], a Hungarian medieval clan
* Pok, a character in the ''[[Pok & Mok]]'' animated series
* Pok, a dialect of the [[Sabaot language]] of Kenya
* [[Pok, Malaysia]], a settlement in Sarawak, Malaysia
* [[Pokesdown railway station]]'s station code
* ''Prophecy of Kings'', an expansion to the 2017 board game ''[[Twilight Imperium]]: Fourth Edition''

==People with the surname==
* [[Pok Shau-fu]] (1909–2000), Hong Kong journalist
* [[Pál Pók]] (1929–1982), Hungarian water polo player

==See also==
* [[Poc (disambiguation)]]
* [[Pock]]
* [[Pokémon]]

{{Disambiguation|surname}}

Zero Patrol

2025-05-14T01:08:16Z

141.136.167.114:

{{Short description|1984 comic book series}}
{{Infobox comic book title 
| image =
| caption =
| schedule = Monthly
| format = [[Ongoing series]]
| publisher = [[Continuity Comics]]
| date = November [[1984 in comics|1984]] - February [[1985 in comics|1985]]; August 1987 – May 1989
| issues = 2
| main_char_team = Zero Patrol
| writers =
| pencillers = various
| inkers =
| colorists =
| creators = [[Esteban Maroto]]
}}
'''''The Zero Patrol''''' was a short-lived [[superhero]] team created by [[Continuity Comics]] in 1984.<ref>{{Cite book |last=Neal Adams |url=http://archive.org/details/zero-patrol-vol.-1..5de-neal-adams-1984-completo-adaptacion-de-5-x-infinito-de-e |title=Zero Patrol (Vol. 1..5) (Adams, 1984) |date=1984}}</ref>

The Zero Patrol were a team of five people from Earth, collected to protect the universe. The series was a [[Europe]]an comic originally titled ''Cinco por infinito'' or ''5 Infinity'', otherwise known as ''5 for Infinity'', a successful Spanish Comic produced between 1968 and 1970 written and drawn by [[Esteban Maroto]], with [[Neal Adams]] supplying a new story and artwork.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Esteban Maroto {{!}} Comic Art Gallery |url=https://www.comic-art-gallery.com/maroto-esteban/ |access-date=2022-05-10 |language=en-US}}</ref> The original comic was featured in ''Delta 99'' and ''Dracula''. The title Zero Patrol for these American series came from Neal Adams' own previous comics - never published - based on material of his drawn and written years before. The Zero Patrol team consisted of Dr. Zero, Orion, Heather, Bruce, Alter, and Lanie in edit version. The characters were Alter, Aline, Orion, Serio and Honda in original comic. Originally the book ran for only two issues in 1984 and 1985. Then the first two issues were reprinted and the series ran for a total of five issues in 1987–89, before [[Continuity Comics]] closed down.

== References ==
{{Reflist}}

==External links==
* [https://web.archive.org/web/20060508225840/http://www.mightycrusaders.net/continuity_zeropatrol.htm ''Zero Patrol'' at Mighty Crusaders site]

[[Category:Continuity Comics titles]]
[[Category:1984 comics debuts]]
[[Category:Comics by Neal Adams]]
[[Category:Superhero comics]]

{{comic-stub}}

Megalith (comics)

2025-05-14T01:06:29Z

141.136.167.114:

{{One source|date=May 2007}}
'''Megalith''' is a [[superhero]], as well as the title of a [[comic book]] starring the hero published by [[Continuity Comics]].<ref>Hibbs, Brian. [http://www.comixexperience.com/taw23.htm "Tilting at Windwills" #23, Comix Experience (March 1994).] {{webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090414054243/http://www.comixexperience.com/taw23.htm|date=2009-04-14}} Accessed Mar. 17, 2009.</ref> Megalith first appeared in "Zero Patrol" as a back up feature in 1984. After that he then appeared in ''Revengers'' #1 in 1985, which had him team up with Armour and Silver Streak. Later, Megalith starred in his own series.

==Characterization==
Joe Majurac was a gifted young student and athlete who aspired to one day become an Olympic champion. When his family farm was threatened with foreclosure, Joe eagerly accepted an offer of sponsorship by an unheard-of German corporation. Unaware of their sinister motives for him, Joe allowed the company to train him at their state-of-the-art facility in Germany. Joe drove himself to become the best at multiple athletic events, unknowingly achieving a "mind/body link" that allowed him to surpass normal human ability. When his trainers continued to push him towards an unseen goal, and contact with his parents became difficult, Joe began to suspect his benefactors and confronted them. Their response was to threaten his parents, thus driving Joe to break out of the compound and return home. Finding his family farm destroyed and his parents missing, Joe became the costumed hero Megalith in order to find them. His search often led him to fight alongside [[Revengers|the Revengers]], a team of other heroes.

==Abilities==
Having achieved a "mind/body link", Joe Majurac has strength, speed and stamina well beyond the human norm. Prior to achieving the link, he had trained to the levels of an Olympic athlete and was able to power-lift up to 1200 lbs. After achieving the link, he has been shown to destroy concrete with his bare hands as well as lift vehicles and even a tank on one occasion. To a lesser degree, the link also provides him with a genius-level intellect & photographic memory, allowing him to quickly learn new languages and memorize facts or information. His body is resistant to damage, almost to the point of being bulletproof, and his metabolism is such that he is practically immune to poisons while also healing somewhat faster than normal.

After meeting an ally who had also achieved the mind/body link (albeit in the opposite fashion), Joe learned that he could also harness limited psychic abilities such as telepathy and telekinesis.

==Publication history==
* 1st series: 9 issues, 1989-1992
* 2nd series: 8 issues (#0-7), 1993-1994

==References==
{{Reflist}}

==External links==
* [https://web.archive.org/web/20080101203812/http://www.mightycrusaders.net/continuity_megalith.htm Megalith page at Mighty Crusaders site]
* [https://web.archive.org/web/20080101203823/http://www.mightycrusaders.net/continuity_revengers.htm Revengers page at Mighty Crusaders site]
* [https://comicvine.gamespot.com/megalith/4005-31631/ Megalith profile at Comic Vine site]

[[Category:Continuity Comics titles]]
[[Category:Characters created by Neal Adams]]

{{comics-char-stub}}

Continuity Comics

2025-05-14T00:44:12Z

141.136.167.114: /* Titles */

{{Short description|Defunct American independent comic book publishing company}}
{{more citations needed|date=March 2010}}
{{Infobox publisher
| name = Continuity Comics
| founded = 1984
| founder = [[Neal Adams]]
| defunct = 1994
| image = [[Image:ContinuityComics.jpg]]
| headquarters = [[New York City]]
| country = United States
| keypeople = Peter Stone
| parent = Continuity Publishing
| genre = [[Superhero comics|Superhero]]
| imprints =
| publications = [[Comic books]]
| url =
}}

'''Continuity Publishing''', also known as '''Continuity Comics''', was an American independent [[comic book]] company formed by [[Neal Adams]] in 1984, publishing comics until 1994.

==History==
After years as a freelancer and comics art packager (with his company [[Continuity Associates]]), in 1984 Adams ventured into publishing as a way to maximize his creative freedom (and profits). Continuity mainly published a variety of [[superhero]] comics developed by Adams. For instance, the title ''[[Ms. Mystic]]'' was first published by [[Pacific Comics]], and was revived in 1987 by Continuity.

Adams' own detailed, realistic art was the basis of Continuity's "house style"; the company's creators included [[Dan Barry (comics)|Dan Barry]], [[Vicente Alcazar]], [[Mike Deodato, Jr.]], [[Mark Texeira]], [[Dave Hoover]], [[Richard Bennett Lamas|Richard Bennett]], [[Tom Grindberg]], [[Bart Sears]], [[Esteban Maroto]], and [[Michael Netzer]]. Adams often provided layouts for the company's titles, as well as inking many faces and contributing other personal touch-up artwork. Adams also plotted many of Continuity's titles, most of which were scripted by writer Peter Stone.

Continuity's comics tended to be grittier than the mainstream [[Marvel Comics|Marvel]] or [[DC Comics|DC]] comics of their day, often depicting bloody, graphic violence. For instance, in one issue of ''Armor'' the title character has his hand chopped off and then the appendage is destroyed in a blender. Continuity was also part of a trend towards more [[eroticism]] in mainstream comics. For instance, the costume and the cover artwork illustrated by [[Mark Beachum]] for the character Samuree were often revealing, and she was sometimes drawn in sexy poses on the cover of her comic.

During the 1990s "[[variant cover]]" craze, Continuity got into [[Tyvek]] (marketed as "indestructible"), die-cut, glow-in-the-dark, chrome-plated, and hologram covers, as well as pull-out posters, stickers, and trading cards, all of which are associated with the speculation bubble which burst in the mid-1990s. Continuity also bought into the crossover craze of the era with ''Deathwatch 2000'' (1992–1993) and ''Rise of Magic'' (1993–1994).

Over the course of its life as a publisher, Continuity was the subject of much criticism from comics retailers and fans for poor editorial oversight and the publisher's inability to ship its products on time or according to schedule.<ref>Hibbs, Brian. [http://www.comixexperience.com/taw23.htm "Tilting at Windwills" #23, Comix Experience (March 1994).] {{webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090414054243/http://www.comixexperience.com/taw23.htm|date=2009-04-14}} Accessed Mar. 17, 2009.</ref>

Continuity stopped publishing in 1994 during its ''Rise of Magic'' crossover, embroiled in legal<ref>"Newswatch: Adams Sued for $20 Million in Libel/Trademark Suit", ''The Comics Journal'' #162 (Oct. 1993), pp. 7-11.</ref><ref>"Barry in Dispute with Adams", ''The Comics Journal'' #169 (July 1994), pp. 16-17.</ref> and financial<ref>"Comics Publishers Suffer Tough Summer: Body Count Rises in Market Shakedown", ''The Comics Journal'' #172 (Nov. 1994), pp. 13-18.</ref> troubles. Several of Continuity's later titles and characters wound up being picked up by other publishers. For instance, ''Samuree'', ''Valeria'' and ''Knighthawk'' would be published by [[Valiant Comics]]' Windjammer line of creator-owned titles.

==Titles==
* ''Armor'' (13 issues, 1985–1992; 6 issues, 1993)
* ''[[Bucky O'Hare]]'' (graphic novel, 1986; 5 issues, 1991–1992)
* ''[[Captain Power and the Soldiers of the Future#Comic book|Captain Power and the Soldiers of the Future]]'' (2 issues, 1988–1989)
* ''Crazyman'' (3 issues, 1992; 4 issues, 1993–1994)
* ''Cyberrad'' (7 issues, 1992–93; 1 issue, 1993; 2 issues 1992–1993)
* ''[[Echo of Futurepast]]'' (9 issues, 1984–1986)
* ''Hybrids'' (4 issues, 1993; 1 issues, 1994)
* ''Hybrids: The Origin'' (6 issues, 1993–1994)
* ''[[Megalith (comics)|Megalith]]'' (9 issues, 1989–1993; 8 issues, 1993–1994)
* ''[[Ms. Mystic]]'' (9 issues, 1987–1992; 1–3, 1993; 1–4, 1993–1994)
* ''The Revengers featuring Megalith'' (6 issues, 1985–1989)
* ''Samuree'' (9 issues, 1987–1991; 4 issues, 1993–1994)
* ''Shaman'' (1 issue, 1994)
* ''Toyboy'' (7 issues, 1986–1989)
* ''[[Urth 4]]'' (4 issues, 1989–1990); renamed ''Earth 4'' (3 issues, 1993; 4 issues, 1993–1994)
* ''Valeria, She-Bat'' (2 issues, 1993; no issues #2–4)
* ''[[Zero Patrol]]'' (2 issues, 1984–1985; 5 issues, 1987–1989)

===Crossovers===
* ''Deathwatch 2000''
** ''Armor'' (#1–3, 1993)
** ''Cyberrad'' (#1–2, 1992/93)
** ''Earth 4'' (#1–3, 1993)
** ''Hybrids'' (#0–3, 1993)
** ''Megalith'' (#0–3, 1993)
** ''Ms. Mystic'' (#1–3, 1993)
* ''Rise of Magic''
** ''Armor'' (#4–6, 1993)
** ''Hybrids'' (#1, 1994)
** ''Megalith'' (#4–7, 1993/94)
** ''Ms. Mystic'' (#2–4, 1993/94)
** ''Samuree'' (#1–4, 1993/94)
** ''Shaman'' (#0, 1994)
** ''Valeria, She-Bat'' (#5, 1993)

==Characters==
* Armor
* [[Bucky O'Hare]]
* Crazyman
* Cyberrad
* Hybrids
* [[Megalith (comics)|Megalith]]
* [[Ms. Mystic]]
* Samuree
* Shaman
* Silver Streak
* Toyboy
* Valeria, She-Bat

==References==
{{reflist}}

==External links==
* [http://www.nealadams.com/ Neal Adams' official website]
* [https://web.archive.org/web/20060425060923/http://www.mightycrusaders.net/continuity_comics.htm Continuity Comics at Mighty Crusaders]

{{Comic book publishers in North America navbox}}

[[Category:Continuity Comics| ]]
[[Category:1984 establishments in New York City]]
[[Category:1994 disestablishments in New York (state)]]
[[Category:Comic book publishing companies of the United States]]
[[Category:Comics by Neal Adams]]
[[Category:Companies disestablished in 1994]]
[[Category:Companies established in 1984]]
[[Category:Defunct comics and manga publishing companies]]

Urth 4

2025-05-14T00:34:50Z

141.136.167.114:

{{More citations needed|date=June 2020}}
{{Infobox comic book title 
| image = Urth4.jpg
| caption = Cover to issue #1, art by [[Neal Adams]].
| schedule =
| format = Standard
| publisher = [[Continuity Comics]]
| date = May 1989 - December 1990; 1993–1994
| issues = 4 (in ''Urth 4''), 7 (in ''Earth 4'')
| main_char_team = Urth 4
| writers = Peter Stone
| artists = [[Neal Adams]] (covers)
| pencillers = [[Trevor Von Eeden]] (''Urth 4''); Walter McDaniels, Aron Weisenfeld, [[Vicente Alcazar]] (''Earth 4'')
| inkers = [[Ian Akin]] & [[Brian Garvey (comics)|Brian Garvey]] (''Urth 4''); [[Richard Bennett Lamas|Richard Bennett]], Andres Klasik, Jeff Fefferty, Horacio Ottolini, Nelson Luty (''Earth 4'')
| colorists = [[Liz Berube]] (''Urth 4''); Cory Adams, Tom Roberts, Victoria Erskine, Fabio Schlachticus, Scott Rockwell (''Earth 4'')
| creative_team_month =
| creative_team_year =
| creators =
}}

'''''Urth 4''''' is a [[comic-book]] series created by Peter Stone, [[Neal Adams]] and [[Trevor Von Eeden]] and published by [[Continuity Comics]]. The series ran for four issues (May 1989 – December 1990), and was then revived as ''Earth 4'' in 1993, running for a total of seven more issues.

==Series overview==
The title featured the adventures of a team of elementals created when [[Ms. Mystic]] was injured and called upon the Earth to help her. In response, the Earth gives Dwight Good, Kelly Kane, Baron Cotter, and Dennis Swan the powers of the four elements.<ref>''Ms. Mystic'' #2 (Pacific Comics, 1982).</ref> At first calling themselves the Elementalists, they later choose the name Urth 4. The members of Urth 4 are Fyre, Watr, Ayre, and Urth. Urth 4 are charged by the Earth to protect the environment from those who would harm it. The stories in their four issue series had Urth 4 facing off against [[strip mining]] companies, a garbage monster, and pollution from an automobile plant.

==Notes==
{{reflist}}

== Sources ==
* [http://comics.org/publisher_details.lasso?id=475 Continuity Comics at the Grand Comics DB]
* {{comicbookdb|type=publisher|id=15|title=Continuity Comics}}

==External links==
* [http://www.internationalhero.co.uk/u/urth4.htm ''Urth 4'' at International Superheroes]

[[Category:Continuity Comics titles]]
[[Category:Characters created by Neal Adams]]

{{comics-stub}}

Ms. Mystic

2025-05-14T00:33:19Z

141.136.167.114:

{{Infobox comics character
| image = [[Image:Ms Mystic.jpg|250px]]
| caption = ''Ms. Mystic'' sketch by [[Michael Netzer]]
| character_name = Ms. Mystic
| publisher = [[Pacific Comics]] [[Continuity Comics]]
| debut = ''Captain Victory and the Galactic Rangers'' #3 (March 1982)
| creators = [[Neal Adams]]
| alter_ego = Unknown
| full_name =
| species = 
| homeworld = 
| alliances = [[Urth 4]]
| aliases = 
| supports = 
| powers = Spellcasting, flight, ability to summon mystical sword of light, elemental powers
}}
'''Ms. Mystic''' is a [[comic book superhero]] created by comic book artist/writers [[Neal Adams]] and [[Michael Netzer]].<ref>{{cite web |last1=Markstein |first1=Don |website=Don Markstein's Toonopedia |accessdate=2 April 2020 |url=http://www.toonopedia.com/msmystic.htm |title=Ms. Mystic}}</ref> The character's first full appearance was in ''Captain Victory and the Galactic Rangers'' #3 (March 1982), published by [[Pacific Comics]]. After Pacific published two issues, the character was published by Adams' own company [[Continuity Comics]], for a total of nine issues between 1982 and 1994.

==Fictional character biography==
Ms. Mystic is a genuine [[Witchcraft|witch]] who was burned at the stake during the [[Salem witch trials]] (1692–1695). Her soul transferred to another plane, and returned to Earth in the modern world. She is strongly concerned with environmental issues. Mystic has long white hair down to her ankles, wears a set of golden spirals in her hair which resemble the insect-antenna of [[Fairy|faeries]], and her costume is basically a black [[spandex]] [[catsuit]] created with [[Screentone|Zip-A-Tone]].

==Powers and abilities==
Ms. Mystic is a magician; her ability to wield magic also gives her the power of flight, the ability to summon a sword of light, and undefined "Elemental powers".

She can also call upon [[Mother Nature]] for assistance. Ms. Mystic once called upon Mother Nature for help, and she responded by creating the superhero team [[Urth 4]]. Urth 4 are strongly influenced by the [[Fantastic Four]], a group of four superheroes based on the four classical Greek elements.

==Controversy over co-creation==
In 1993 comics artist [[Michael Netzer]] sued Neal Adams for credit and misappropriation of a jointly created property, claiming that he initially conceived the character of Ms. Mystic at the behest of [[DC Comics]]' art director [[Vince Colletta]] in 1977, and went on to co-create the character with Adams.<ref>Newswatch: "Adams Sued for $20 Million in Libel/Trademark Suit", ''The Comics Journal'' #162 (Oct. 1993), pp. 7–11</ref> The suit was subsequently dismissed in the [[United States District Court for the Southern District of New York]] on grounds of the [[Statute of Limitations]].<ref>[https://web.archive.org/web/20140304232052/http://www.earthx.org/flex/994389.html Netzer v. Continuity Graphic Associates, Inc.], 963 F.Supp. 1308, 1323 ([http://www1.nysd.uscourts.gov/index.php S.D.N.Y.] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20081217053656/http://www1.nysd.uscourts.gov/index.php|date=2008-12-17}} 1997)</ref><ref>Stump, Greg. "News Watch: Mike Netzer's Lawsuit against Neal Adams Dismissed", ''The Comics Journal'' #201 (January 1998), p. 18.</ref> Netzer later publicly apologized for the grief caused to Adams by the litigation and acknowledged Adams' sole ownership of the character, while maintaining his claim to initial co-authorship.<ref>Netzer, Michael. "AN OPEN APOLOGY TO neal adams", Michael Netzer's The New Comic Book of Life (2006). [https://web.archive.org/web/20130519093916/http://www.michaelnetzer.com/archive/thenewcomicbookoflife/NealAdams.html Archived at the Wayback Machine].</ref><ref>[https://web.archive.org/web/20130519223321/http://www.michaelnetzer.com/thecitysquare/bloodwhichflows.html Blood which Flows from the Heart] is an essay by Michael Netzer in which he states that he and Neal Adams jointly created Ms. Mystic before Netzer left the American comics scene and Adams continued to develop the character alone (archived).</ref> In 2018 Netzer posted a long attack on Adams on his Facebook page, in response to an interview Adams gave to the magazine ''Back Issue''.<ref>Netzer, Michael. [https://www.facebook.com/photo.php?fbid=10156232047023614&set=a.10151640544218614&type=3&theater "WE ALL KNOW WHAT YOU'VE DONE, NEAL"]. Facebook (May 14, 2018).</ref>

==References==
{{reflist}}

==External links==
* [http://www.toonopedia.com/msmystic.htm Ms. Mystic] at [[Don Markstein's Toonopedia]]. [https://www.webcitation.org/6fukTrWyz?url=http://www.toonopedia.com/msmystic.htm Archived] from the original on March 10, 2016.
* [https://web.archive.org/web/20120207082842/http://www.mightycrusaders.net/continuity_msmystic.htm Ms. Mystic] at Mighty Crusaders Continuity Comics
* [https://web.archive.org/web/20130828054228/http://internationalhero.co.uk/m/msmystic.htm Ms. Mystic page] at internationalhero.co.uk

[[Category:Characters created by Neal Adams]]
[[Category:Comics characters who use magic]]
[[Category:Female characters in comics]]
[[Category:Female superheroes]]
[[Category:Fictional environmentalists]]
[[Category:Fictional characters who use magic]]
[[Category:Classical mythology in comics]]

Big Apple Comix

2025-05-14T00:24:10Z

141.136.167.114: /* Publication history */

{{short description|Independent comic publisher}}
{{Infobox comic book title 
|image = BigAppleComix.jpg
|imagesize =
|caption = ''Big Apple Comix'' (Sept. 1975), cover art by [[Wally Wood]].
|schedule =
|ongoing =
|publisher = Big Apple Productions
|date = September [[1975 in comics|1975]]
|issues = 1
|writers =
|artists =
|pencillers =
|inkers =
|letterers =
|colorists =
|editors = Flo Steinberg
|creative_team_month =
|creative_team_year =
|creators =
|TPB =
|ISBN =
|TPB# =
|ISBN# =
|subcat =
|altcat =
|sort = Big Apple Comix
|addpubcat# =
|nonUS =
}}
'''''Big Apple Comix''''' is an early independent comic book published by [[Flo Steinberg]] in 1975. A historically important link between [[underground comix]] and what would later be called [[alternative comics]], this 36-page, 6{{fraction|3|4}}" × 9{{fraction|3|4}}" hybrid with glossy color covers and black-and-white interiors contains 11 sometimes sexually frank stories by such mainstream creators as [[Neal Adams]], [[Archie Goodwin (comics)|Archie Goodwin]], [[Denny O'Neil]], [[Herb Trimpe]], [[Al Williamson]], and [[Wally Wood]]. The creators were mainly friends of Steinberg, working for a low page rate.<ref>{{cite book |last1=Sacks |first1=Jason |last2=Dallas |first2=Keith |title=American Comic Book Chronicles: The 1970s |date=2014 |publisher=TwoMorrows Publishing |isbn=978-1605490564 |pages=154–155}}</ref> Most of its stories revolve around [[New York City]] (colloquially known as [[the Big Apple]]) during a particularly low ebb in the city's finances, crime situation, race relations, and infrastructure.

==Publication history==
The [[one-shot (comics)|one-shot]] comic book was among a handful of 1960s-1970s precursors of the independently produced comics that first proliferated with the 1980s rise of "[[direct market]]" comic-book stores. Other such early links between [[underground comix]] and modern independents include [[Mike Friedrich]]'s ''[[Star Reach|Star*Reach]]'' and Wood's own ''[[witzend]]''. Critic Ken Jones, in a 1986 retrospective review, suggested that ''Big Apple Comix'' and [[Mark Evanier]]'s ''High Adventure'' may have been "the first true alternative comics".<ref>{{cite magazine|last=Jones|first=Ken|title=(review)|magazine= [[Amazing Heroes]]| number=89|date= February 15, 1986}} Cited in {{cite web|last=Dunchak |first=Lee |url=http://www.cosmiccomix.com/comics/Amazing%20heroes/b_index.htm |title=Buried Treasures of the Month |publisher=The Back Issue Bin (column), CosmicComix.con |archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20071029033126/http://www.cosmiccomix.com/comics/Amazing%20heroes/b_index.htm |archivedate=October 29, 2007 |url-status=dead}}</ref>

The comic featured writer-editor Goodwin displaying his [[cartoonist]] abilities; Adams and a fledgling [[Larry Hama]] sharing vertically split pages to parallel a street [[prostitute]] with a [[corporation|corporate]] [[secretary]] using sex to further her career; and Wood's story "My Word",<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.enjolrasworld.com/Richard%20Arndt/The%20Early%20Independents.htm|first=Richard J.|last=Arndt|title=''Big Apple Comix''|publisher= (entry), The Early Independents|date=August 20, 2007|archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20110716140648/http://www.enjolrasworld.com/Richard%20Arndt/The%20Early%20Independents.htm|archivedate=July 16, 2011|url-status=live}}</ref> a bitter parody of the [[Al Feldstein]]-scripted "My World" that Wood illustrated in [[EC Comics]]' ''[[Weird Science (comic)|Weird Science]]'' #22 (Dec. 1953). [[Linda Fite]] and [[John Verpoorten]] handled production work for the comic,{{Citation needed|date=July 2017}} released with an [[Indicia (publishing)|indicia]] date of September 1975.

Steinberg printed 20,000 copies. [[Warren Publishing]], for which she ran its mail-order Captain Company division, allowed her to store inventory in the company's storage space. She recalled in 1984 that, "I did make my expenses and a little besides". Afterward, the men's magazine ''Cheri'' and the French magazine ''L'Echo'' each reprinted "My Word" and "Over & Under", with Steinberg passing along the reprint fees to the creators.<ref name=CI59>Steinberg in {{cite news | authorlink1=Jim Salicrup | first1=Jim | last1=Salicrup | first2=Dwight Jon | last2=Zimmerman | title=Fabulous Flo Steinberg | work=[[Comics Interview]] | issue=17 | date=November 1984 | page=73 | publisher=[[Fictioneer Books]] | location= New York City}}</ref>

==Contents==
Source:<ref name=gcd>{{gcdb series|id=2285|title=Big Apple Comix}}</ref>
* Front cover by [[Wally Wood]]
* Foreword by [[Denny O'Neil]] (writer), [[Michele Robinson Brand]] (tentatively identified as artist)
* "The Man Without A City" by Stu Schwartzberg (writer), [[Marie Severin]] (artist), pp. 3–5
* "Peep Shows" by [[Archie Goodwin (comics)|Archie Goodwin]] (writer-artist), pp. 6–7
* "My Word" by Wally Wood (writer-artist), pp. 6–8
* "Can You Spot the New York Air Breather?" (no writer or illustrator credited), p. 11
* "The Tube" by Wally Wood (writer), [[Al Williamson]] (artist), pp. 12–14
* "A Nice Place To Visit, but..." by [[Linda Fite]], p. 15
* "Over & Under" by [[Neal Adams]] (artist, "Over"), [[Larry Hama]] (penciler, "Under") and [[Ralph Reese]] (inker "Under"); writer(s) uncertain, pp. 16–20
* "New York City: The Future" by [[Paul Kirchner]], p. 21
* "The Battery's Down" by [[Alan Weiss (comics)|Alan Weiss]], Howard Weiss, pp. 22–26
* "Lotsa Yox" by [[Herb Trimpe]] (pencils) and Wally Wood (inker), pp. 27–28
* "The Silent Minority" by [[Mike Ploog]], pp. 29–30
* "Token" by Herb Trimpe p. 31-34
* "Backword" by [[Flo Steinberg]]
* Back cover by Ralph Reese

==References==
{{reflist}}

==External links==
* {{cite web|archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20071205003638/http://splashpages.com/wood/woodlist/bigapple/bigapplecomix.html|archivedate=December 5, 2007|title=Wally Wood Showcase: ''Big Apple Comix''|publisher=Wally Wood Online Checklist at SplashPages.com|url=http://splashpages.com/wood/woodlist/bigapple/bigapplecomix.html|url-status=dead|access-date=August 8, 2011}}Additional, December 1, 2007.
* {{cite magazine|title=Special Fabulous Flo Steinberg Celebration|magazine=[[Comic Book Artist]]|number=18 |date=April 2002}}

[[Category:American comics titles]]
[[Category:One-shot comic titles]]
[[Category:1975 comics debuts]]
[[Category:Underground comix]]

Blackthorne Publishing

2025-05-14T00:09:10Z

141.136.167.114:

{{Short description|Defunct American comic book publisher}}
{{Infobox company
| name = Blackthorne Publishing Inc.
| logo = Blackthorne-Publishing-logo.jpg
| foundation = 1985
| defunct = 1990
| founder = Steve Schanes Ann Fera
| key_people = John Stephenson (editor-in-chief)
| location = [[El Cajon, California]], U.S.
| industry = [[Comics]]
| owner =
| homepage =
}}

'''Blackthorne Publishing Inc.''' was an American [[comic book]] [[publisher]] that flourished from 1986 to 1989. They were notable for the ''Blackthorne 3-D Series'', their reprint titles of classic [[comic strip]]s like [[Dick Tracy]], and their licensed products. Blackthorne achieved its greatest sales and financial success with their licensed [[Three-dimensional space|3-D]] comics adaptations of the [[California Raisins]], but the financial loss suffered by the failure of their 3-D adaptation of [[Michael Jackson]]'s film ''[[Moonwalker]]'' was a major contributor to the publisher's downfall.

== History ==
Blackthorne was established in 1985 by husband-and-wife team Steve Schanes and Ann Fera, formerly associated with [[Pacific Comics]] (which had gone out of business in 1984). After Schanes was fired from Pacific Comics, he needed a job in order to pay debts for himself and family.<ref name="DAK54">{{cite news | first = Mark | last = Borax | date = January 1988 | title = Steve Schanes (part 1) | work = [[Comics Interview]] | issue = 54 | pages = 33–39 | publisher = [[Fictioneer Books]]}}</ref> Schanes and Fera decided to raise $16,000 to start Blackthorne (naming the company after the street on which they lived),<ref name=Sanford>{{cite magazine|last=Sanford|first=Jay Allen|author-link=Jay Allen Sanford|url=http://www.sandiegoreader.com/weblogs/bands/2008/sep/14/the-history-of-comic-books-in-san-diego-the-80s|title=The History Of Comic Books In San Diego: The '80s|magazine=[[San Diego Reader]] blog|date=September 14, 2008 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20081015220055/http://www.sandiegoreader.com/weblogs/bands/2008/sep/14/the-history-of-comic-books-in-san-diego-the-80s/ |archive-date=2008-10-15}}</ref> mostly using their credit cards.<ref name="SDBJ">{{cite magazine|url=http://www.entrepreneur.com/tradejournals/article/print/7448279.html|title=Comics publisher pins stellar hopes to ''Moonwalker''|magazine=[[San Diego Business Journal]]|date=March 6, 1989}}</ref>

Blackthorne's first title was ''[[Jerry Iger]]'s Classic Sheena'', with a cover date of April 1985, featuring [[Sheena, Queen of the Jungle]] reprints and a new [[Dave Stevens]] cover (the book had originally been slated as a Pacific Comics release).<ref name="Sanford" /> Despite early struggles due to their limited funds, Blackthorne steadily expanded during its first years. To increase their profitability and visibility, the company employed sales representatives which sold their comics to retail stores not covered by any [[comic book distributor]]s, such as [[Hallmark Cards]], [[Spencer Gifts]], and [[7-Eleven]]s nationwide.<ref name="DAK54"/><ref>{{cite magazine|title=Blackthorne in 7-11s|magazine=[[The Comics Journal]]|number=108|date=May 1986|page=19}}</ref> By the end of 1987, according to Schanes, the company was publishing 22 comic books a month and was distributing to 900–1,200 gift stores not covered by comics distributors.<ref name="DAK54"/> Meanwhile, Blackthorne earned praise from critics and hobbyists for its reprints of classic newspaper comic strips.<ref>{{cite magazine|last=Harvey|first=R.C.|author-link=R. C. Harvey|title=Bringing Back the Reprints|magazine=[[The Comics Journal]]|number=111|date=September 1986|pages=56–61|quote=Reviews of reprints of newspaper comic strips by Blackthorne Publishing.}}</ref> Schanes chose to do newspaper strip reprints because they required less financial investment and because there was little competition in the field at the time. Blackthorne immediately bought the rights for 60 different newspaper strips, even though they knew they wouldn't be able to produce most of them for years at best, to lock out any competition in the field.<ref name="DAK54"/>

In addition to their comic book line, Blackthorne published paperback books and created faux books for movie props; for instance, the comic books and technical manuals seen in the film ''[[Russkies]]'' are all props crafted by Blackthorne Publishing.<ref name="DAK54"/>

In 1987, however, with the company losing money on its color line, it canceled those titles to focus on its 3-D books and black-and-white licensed products.<ref>{{cite magazine|title=Blackthorne Cancels Color Comics Line, Will Refocus on Licensed Product|magazine=[[The Comics Journal]]|number=117|date=September 1987|page=15}}</ref> Blackthorne also suffered from the contemporaneous financial troubles of the Los Angeles–based distributor [[Sunrise Distribution]].<ref>{{cite magazine|title=Sunrise announces it may not pay some publishers until July|magazine=[[The Comics Journal]]|number=115|date=April 1987|page=24}}</ref> Sunrise went bankrupt in 1988, and although Blackthorne (along with fellow West Coast publisher [[Fantagraphics]]) sued the distributor,<ref>{{cite magazine|title=Two Publishers Sue Sunrise Distributors|magazine=[[The Comics Journal]]|number=120|date=March 1988|page=8}}</ref><ref>{{cite magazine|title=Sunrise Creditors Meet|magazine=[[The Comics Journal]]|number=122|date=June 1988|page=22}}</ref> they were never able to recoup their losses. This in turn led to Blackthorne being [[audited]] by the federal government in 1988.<ref>{{cite magazine|title=Blackthorne Audited|magazine=[[The Comics Journal]]|number=124|date=August 1988|pages=12–13}}</ref><ref>{{cite magazine|title=IRS Pursues Blackthorne|magazine=[[The Comics Journal]]|number=125|date=October 1988|page=13}}</ref>

In early 1989, the company was still the fifth-largest U.S. comics publisher, bringing in about $1 million in sales and boasting a staff of eight full-time editorial and production employees. They published about 240 different titles a year, with an average print run of about 10,000 copies each.<ref name="SDBJ" /> The company made a fatal error, however, when they signed on to adapt the [[Michael Jackson]] film ''[[Moonwalker]]'' to a 3-D comic book. The publisher paid a large licensing fee for the property and when the ''Moonwalker'' comic flopped later that year, they experienced a large financial loss.<ref>Hudson, Laura. [http://www.comicsalliance.com/2009/06/26/the-5-greatest-michael-jackson-moments-in-comics/ "The 5 Greatest Michael Jackson Moments in Comics"], {{webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20100407062426/http://www.comicsalliance.com/2009/06/26/the-5-greatest-michael-jackson-moments-in-comics|date=2010-04-07}} Comics Alliance (June 26, 2009).</ref>

By mid-1989 the company was outsourcing its operations,<ref>{{cite magazine|title=Blackthorne Temporarily Contracts Operations|magazine=[[The Comics Journal]]|number=130|date=July 1989|pages=27–28}}</ref> and in November the company laid off eight of its nine employees, including editor-in-chief John Stephenson. $180,000 in debt, Blackthorne limped into 1990 before it finally folded.<ref>{{cite magazine|last=Hardie|first=Mary|title=Cash-strapped comic book maker hits hard times again|magazine=[[San Diego Business Journal]]|date=January 22, 1990}}</ref><ref>{{cite magazine|title=Blackthorne Struggles to Stay Afloat|magazine=[[The Comics Journal]]|number=134|date=February 1990|pages=7–8}}</ref>

==Titles==
{{col-begin}}
{{col-break}}

=== Original series ===
* ''Adventures in the Mystwood'', 1 issue
* ''Alien Ducklings'', 4 issues
* ''[[Alien Worlds]]'' graphic novel
* ''Atomic Man Comics'', 3 issues
* ''Blackthorne's 3-in-1'', 2 issues
* ''Brik Hauss'', 1 issue
* ''Cold Blooded Chameleon Commandos'', 5 issues
* ''Crow of the Bear Clan'', 6 issues
* ''Danse'', 1 issue
* ''Dogaroo'', 1 issue
* ''Duckbots'', 2 issues
* ''Enchanted Valley'', 2 issues
* ''Failed Universe'', 1 issue – ''[[New Universe]]'' parody
* ''Figments'', 3 issues
* ''Fragments (Black)'', 2 issues
* ''Freak-Out on Infant Earths'', 2 issues – ''[[Crisis on Infinite Earths]]'' parody
* ''The Gift'', 1 issue
* ''Ground Pound! Comix '', 1 issue
* ''Hamster Vice'', 6 issues – ''[[Miami Vice]]'' parody
* ''Jack Hunter'' (Vol. 1, color), 1 issue
* ''Jack Hunter'' (Vol. 11, Prestige format B&W), 3 issues
* ''[[Jax and the Hellhound]]'', 3 issues
* ''Labor Force'', 8 issues
* ''Lann'' graphic novel
* ''Laffin' Gas'', 12 issues
* ''Legion Of Stupid Heroes'', 1 issue – ''[[Legion of Super-Heroes]]'' parody
* ''Mad Dog Magazine'', 3 issues
* ''The Man of Rust'', 1 issue
* ''Midnite'', 3 issues
* ''Mr. Cream Puff'', 1 issue
* ''Nervous Rex'', 10 issues
* ''Of Myths and Men'', 2 issues
* ''Omega Elite'', 1 issue
* ''Omni Men'', 1 issue
* ''Operative: Scorpio'' graphic novel
* ''Outposts'', 1 issue
* ''Pajama Chronicles'', 1 issue
* ''Planet Comics'', 3 issues
* ''Possibleman'', 2 issues
* ''Pre-Teen Dirty-Gene Kung Fu Kangaroos'', 3 issues – [[Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles]] parody
* ''Red Heat'', 2 issues
* ''Revolving Doors'', 3 issues
* ''[[Roachmill]]'', 6 issues
* ''Rivit'', 1 issue
* ''Serius Bounty Hunter'', 3 issues
* ''Shuriken'' graphic novel
* ''Starlight Squadron'', 1 issue
* ''Street Poet Ray'', 2 issues
* ''Street Wolf'', 3 issues
* ''To Die For'', 1 issue
* ''Timeline Color Comics'', 1 issue (?)
* ''Tracker'', 2 issues
* ''Twisted Tantrums of the Purple Snit'', 2 issues
* ''Wings Comics'' graphic novel
* ''Wolph'', 1 issue
* ''Xeno-Men'', 1 issue
* ''X-L'', graphic novel
{{col-break}}

=== ''Blackthorne 3-D Series'' ===
'''''80 issues'''''
* ''3-D [[Bullwinkle J. Moose|Bullwinkle]] & Rocky'', 1 issue
* ''3-D Bullwinkle For President In 3-D'', 1 issue
* ''3-D Heroes'', 1 issue
* ''3-D Sports Hall of Shame'', 1 issue
* ''Adventures of Capt. Holo 3-D'', 1 issue
* ''[[Baby Huey]] 3-D'', 1 issue
* ''[[BattleTech]] 3-D'', 1 issue
* ''[[Betty Boop]] 3-D'', 1 issue
* ''Bizarre 3-D Zone'', 1 issue
* ''[[Bozo the Clown]] in 3-D'', 3 issues
* ''[[Bravestarr]] in 3-D'', 2 issues
* ''[[California Raisins]] in 3-D'', 5 issues
* ''[[California Raisins]]: The Ultimate Collection'' trade paperback
* ''[[Casper the Friendly Ghost|Casper]] in 3-D'', 1 issue
* ''Classic Jungle Comics'', 1 issue
* ''[[Dick Tracy]] in 3-D'', 1 issue
* ''[[The Flintstones]] in 3-D'', 4 issues
* ''[[G.I. Joe]] in 3-D'', 6 issues
* ''G.I. Joe in 3-D Annual'', 1 issue
* ''[[Goldyn]] in 3-D'', 1 issue
* ''[[Gumby]] 3-D'', 7 issues
* ''Hamster Vice in 3-D'', 2 issues
* ''[[Kull of Atlantis|Kull]] 3-D'', 2 issues
* ''Lars of Mars in 3-D'', 1 issue
* ''[[Laurel & Hardy]] in 3-D'', 2 issues
* ''[[Little Dot]] 3-D'', 1 issue
* ''[[Little Nemo in Slumberland]] 3-D'', 1 issue
* ''Merlin Realm in 3-D'', 1 issue
* ''[[Moonwalker]] in 3-D'', 1 issue
* ''[[The Noid]] in 3-D'', 2 issues
* ''[[Playful Little Audrey]] in 3-D'', 1 issue
* ''[[Rambo III]] 3-D'', 1 issue
* ''[[Red Sonja]] 3-D'', 1 issue
* ''[[Richie Rich (comics)|Richie Rich]] and Casper 3-D'', 1 issue
* ''[[Sad Sack]] 3-D'', 1 issue
* ''Salimba 3-D'', 2 issues
* ''[[Sheena, Queen of the Jungle|Sheena]] 3-D Special'', 1 issue
* ''[[Solomon Kane]] 3-D'', 1 issue
* ''[[Star Wars]] 3-D'', 3 issues
* ''[[Transformers (comics)|Transformers]] in 3-D'', 3 issues
* ''To Die For 3-D'', 1 issue
* ''[[Twisted Tales]] 3-D'', 1 issue
* ''[[Underdog (TV series)|Underdog]] 3-D'', 1 issue
* ''[[Waxwork (film)|Waxwork]] 3-D'', 1 issue
* ''[[Wendy the Good Little Witch|Wendy]] in 3-D'', 1 issue
* ''[[Werewolf (TV series)|Werewolf]] 3-D'', 1 issue
{{col-break}}

=== Licensed and reprint titles ===
* ''[[Battle Beasts]]'', 4 Issues
* ''BattleForce'', 2 issues
* ''[[BattleTech]]'', 6 issues
* ''BattleTech Annual''
* ''[[Beyond Mars]]'', 5 issues (later released as two-part trade paperback)
* ''Comic Strip Preserves'' series
** ''[[Betty Boop]]'', 3 issues
** ''[[Boner's Ark]]'', 1 issue
** ''[[Brenda Starr]] Reporter'', 2 issues
** ''[[Smokey Stover]]'', 1 issue
** ''[[Steve Roper and Mike Nomad|Steve Roper and the Wahoo]]'', 2 issues
** ''[[Tales of the Green Beret]]'', 3 issues
* [[Dick Tracy]] series
** ''Dick Tracy Book'', 21 issues
** ''Dick Tracy (Reuben series)'', 24 issues
** ''Dick Tracy Monthly/Weekly'', 99 issues
** ''Dick Tracy Special'', 3 issues
** ''Dick Tracy: The Early Years'', 4 issues
** ''Dick Tracy: The Unprinted Stories'', 4 issues
** ''Dick Tracy trade paperback''
* ''The Iger Comics Kingdom'' trade paperback
* ''Jerry Iger's Classic Jumbo Comics'', 1 issue
* ''Jerry Iger's Golden Features'', 7 issues
* ''Jerry Iger's National Comics'' trade paperback
* ''Jungle Comics'', 4 issues
* ''[[Kerry Drake]]'', 5 issues
* ''Kirby: King of the Serials'', 1 issue
* ''[[Little Nemo in Slumberland]]'', 2 issues
* ''[[Li'l Abner]]'' (Reuben Series) trade paperback
* ''Official How to Draw'' series
** ''Official How to Draw [[G.I. Joe]]'', 3 issues
** ''Official How to Draw [[Robotech]]'', 14 issues
** ''Official How to Draw [[Transformers (comics)|Transformers]]'', 6 issues
* ''[[Mary Perkins, On Stage|On Stage by Leonard Starr]]'' trade paperback
* ''[[Prince Valiant]]'' graphic novel, 2 issues
* ''[[Rambo (film series)|Rambo]]'', 1 issue
* ''[[Rambo III]]'', 1 issue
* ''Rover from [[Gasoline Alley (comic strip)|Gasoline Alley]]'', 1 issue
* ''Salimba'' graphic novel
* ''[[Star Hawks]]'', 4 issues
* ''Stories of the West'', 2 issues
* ''Tales of the Jackalope'', 7 issues
* ''[[Tarzan in comics|Tarzan]]'', 1 issue
* ''[[Waxwork (film)|Waxwork]]'', 1 issue
* ''[[Werewolf (TV series)|Werewolf]]'', 5 issues
{{col-end}}

== Notes ==
{{reflist|2}}

== References ==
* {{gcdb publisher|id=485|title=Blackthorne Publishing}}
* {{comicbookdb|type=publisher|id=536|title=Blackthorne Publishing}}
* Steve Schanes interview, ''David Anthony Kraft's Comics Interview'' #54–55 (1988)
* Duin, Steve, and Mike Richardson. ''Comics Between the Panels'' (Dark Horse Comics, Milwaukie, OR: 1998), p. 50.

{{Comic book publishers in North America navbox}}
{{Authority control}}

[[Category:Blackthorne Publishing| ]]
[[Category:Comic book publishing companies of the United States]]
[[Category:Companies based in El Cajon, California]]
[[Category:Defunct comics and manga publishing companies]]
[[Category:Defunct companies based in California]]
[[Category:Lists of comics by publisher]]
[[Category:Publishing companies established in 1985]]
[[Category:Publishing companies disestablished in 1990]]
[[Category:1985 establishments in California]]
[[Category:1990 disestablishments in California]]
[[Category:American companies established in 1985]]

Centaur Publications

2025-05-13T23:23:05Z

141.136.167.114:

{{short description|American comic book publisher}}
{{Use mdy dates|date=April 2020}}
{{Infobox publisher
| name = Centaur Publications
| founded = {{start date and age|1938}}
| defunct = {{start date and age|1942}}
| founder = Joe Hardie Fred Gardner Raymond Kelly
| image =
| headquarters = [[New York City]]
| country = United States
| keypeople = [[Bill Everett]]
| parent =
| divisions =
| publications = Comic books
| topics =
| genre =
| imprints =
}}
'''Centaur Publications''' (also known as '''Centaur Comics''') was one of the earliest [[American comic book]] publishers. During their short existence, they created several colorful characters, including [[Bill Everett]]'s [[Amazing-Man (Centaur Publications)|Amazing-Man]].

==History==
===Comics Magazine Company===
Centaur developed primarily from the '''Comics Magazine Company, Inc.''' In 1936, comic-book entrepreneur [[Everett M. "Busy" Arnold]] gave financial or other unspecified help to that New York City-based firm, founded by John Mahon and Bill Cook, former employees of Major [[Malcolm Wheeler-Nicholson]]'s [[National Allied Publications]] (the primary forerunner of [[DC Comics]]). The duo published the premiere issue of ''The Comics Magazine'' (May 1936),<ref>Some references contend that its feature, "Captain Bill of the Rangers", was comics' first [[Western comics|Western]], but that feature in fact began in National Allied's ''[[Adventure Comics|New Comics]]'' No. 2 and No. 3 before Cook and Mahon brought it with them, and more than a year earlier, ''[[New Fun Comics|Fun Comics]]'' No. 1 had featured Western stories.</ref> using inventory content from National Allied's submissions. One collector/historian suggests this was in lieu of pay.<ref>{{Cite web | url=http://boards.collectors-society.com/showflat.php?Cat=0&Board=gold&Number=719659&page=0&fpart=all | title=Centaur Comics | work=Collectors Society | date=February 12, 2005 | access-date=March 2, 2006 | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20070311105321/http://boards.collectors-society.com/showflat.php?Cat=0&Board=gold&Number=719659&page=0&fpart=all | archive-date=March 11, 2007 | url-status=dead}}</ref>

Among the Comics Magazine Company's original features was ''Dr. Mystic the Occult Detective'' (not to be confused with [[Mr. Mystic]] of newspapers' "[[Spirit (comics character)|The Spirit Section]]"). This two-page feature was by future [[Superman]] creators [[Jerry Siegel]] and [[Joe Shuster]], and was part of their [[Doctor Occult]] continuity, with the name changed for trademark consideration. This was the beginning of a serial that introduced the villain Koth, and the Seven, that continued into DC's ''More Fun Comics'' #14–17 (issues also designated as vol. 2 #2–5).

The company's flagship title, the eponymous ''Comics Magazine'', premiered with a May 1936 cover date. That comic book series featured the first masked [[hero]] in [[American comic books|American comics]], writer-artist [[George Brenner]]'s the [[Clock (comics)|Clock]], in the November 1936 issue.

===Ultem Publications===
Another entrepreneur, [[Harry "A" Chesler]], published ''Star Comics'' and ''Star Ranger'' through his own Chesler Publications, each with first issues cover-dated February 1937. These titles were soon bought out by I. W. Ullman and [[Frank Z. Temerson]]'s Ultem Publications. In September 1937, Ultem acquired the Comics Magazine Company's titles, retaining Chesler as the packager for both his own previous titles and the two that were continued from the Comics Magazine Co.<ref name=gcd-ultem>[http://www.comics.org/publisher/7631/ "Ultem (1937–1938)] at the [[Grand Comics Database]]</ref> Financial difficulties forced Ultem to sell some of its properties, including the Clock, to [[Everett M. Arnold|"Busy" Arnold's]] [[Quality Comics]].

===Centaur Comics===
[[File:Amazing Mystery Funnies 1.jpg|thumb|Amazing Mystery Funnies No. 1 (1938), art by Bill Everett]]
By January 1938, Ultem was bought out by Joe Hardie, Fred Gardner, and Raymond Kelly's '''Centaur Publications, Inc.''', which had been publishing pulp magazines since at least 1933. Hardie, Gardner, and Kelly used this base to create Centaur Comics, which began publishing in March 1938. They also drew on the back inventory of stories to fill out the early issues of their new titles with reprints. Centaur Publications, Inc. ceased production at the end of 1940, but continued to produce comics under the name '''Comic Corporation of America'''.

Centaur ceased publication four years later, primarily due to poor [[Distribution (business)|distribution]], but in that period had created several colorful characters, including [[Bill Everett]]'s [[Amazing Man (Centaur Publications)|Amazing Man]]. Everett would later go on to comics fame by introducing [[Namor the Submariner]] to [[Timely Comics|Timely]] (later [[Atlas Comics (1950s)|Atlas Comics]], then [[Marvel Comics]]). Everett's first nationally published comic work was the cover of ''Amazing Mystery Funnies'' No. 1 (1938).

===Revival===
In 1992, [[Malibu Comics]] revived several Centaur heroes—which by that time had lapsed into public domain—as the [[superhero]] team The [[Protectors (comics)|Protectors]]. Malibu selected R. A. Jones to revamp and write the series.<ref name="newsok">{{cite news|last1=Price|first1=Matthew|title=1930s superheroes return in Oklahoman's novel|url=http://newsok.com/article/5375016|access-date=March 28, 2018|work=The Oklahoman|date=December 12, 2014}}</ref> Included were Airman, Amazing Man,<ref name="newsok"/> the Arrow, the Clock (as a retired mystery man, then the President of the United States, Brian O'Brien), the Fantom of the Fair, also known as Fantoman (renamed by Malibu as Gravestone), the Ferret,{{citation needed|date=March 2018}} Man of War,<ref name="newsok"/> the Masked Marvel (renamed Night Mask), Mighty Man, Prince Zardi the Eternal Man, and the Shark (renamed Thresher),{{citation needed|date=March 2018}} as well as completely original characters,<ref name="newsok"/> such as Arc and Aura. Several of these characters had short-lived titles of their own. [[AC Comics]] reprinted a number of stories featuring Centaur characters in their anthologies.{{citation needed|date=March 2018}}

R. A. Jones was approached by a small book publisher, Westerntainment,<ref name="newsok0"/> to do a prose novel about the Centaur characters with the idea that the story takes place in their original time period. By December 2014, his novel ''The Steel Ring'' was available. A second book, ''Twilight War'', was green-lit by that time.<ref name="newsok"/> Those Centaur heroes in ''Ring'' were Amazing Man, the Clock, Ferret, Iron Skull, Man of War and others. In October 2016, ''Twilight War'' was available. Centaur characters for the second novel included Airman, the Arrow, Eternal Man and Phantom Princess. Each novel takes place in a different year of World War II. At the time of the second novel's release, Jones had planned to do a total of seven books in the series for each year of the war.<ref name="newsok0">{{cite news|last1=Price|first1=Matthew|title=Tulsa writer returns for another crack at WWII superheroes|url=http://newsok.com/article/5453765|access-date=March 28, 2018|work=The Oklahoman|date=October 16, 2015}}</ref>

==Characters==
[[Image:Amazing man 14.jpg|thumb|Cover of Amazing-Man Comics No. 14 (July 1940), art by Lew Glanzman]]
* [[Airman (character)|Airman]]
* [[Amazing-Man (Centaur Publications)|Amazing-Man]]
* [[Arrow (character)|The Arrow]]
* Black Panther
* Blue Fire
* Blue Lady
* The Buzzard
* Chuck Hardy
* The Conqueror (enemy of Dean Denton)
* [[Clock (character)|The Clock]] (at the Comics Magazine Co., character sold to [[Quality Comics]] but reprints of CMC stories appeared at Centaur)
* Dan Hastings
* Dash Dartwell
* Dean Denton
* Diana Deane
* Dirk the demon
* Dr. Darkness
* Dr. Hypno
* Dr. Mystic
* Dr. Synthe
* The Electric Ray
* [[Eye (Centaur Publications)|The Eye]]
* Ermine
* Eternal man
* [[Fantom of the Fair]]/Fantoman
* The Ferret
* The Fire Man
* Iron Skull
* King of Darkness
* Liberty Guards
* Mad Ming
* [[Magician from Mars]]
* Man O'War
* Marksman
* [[Masked Marvel (Centaur Publications)|The Masked Marvel]]
* Meteor Martin
* [[Mighty Man (comics)|Mighty-Man]]
* [[Minimidget]]
* Miraco the Great
* Nightshade
* The Rainbow
* The Sentinel
* The Shark
* Scarlet Ace
* Skyrocket Steele
* Solarman
* Speed Centaur
* Super-Ann (two characters of the same name)
* T.N.T
* TNT Todd
* Vapo-man
* The Voice
* The Witch (Migthy Man villain)

==Titles==
{{Main|List of Centaur Publications publications}}

==References==
{{Reflist}}

==External links==
{{commons category}}
* {{gcdb publisher|id=58|title=Centaur Publications}}
* [https://web.archive.org/web/20080708182433/http://accomics.com/accomics/goldenage/centaur.html AC Comics page about Centaur Publications]
* [https://web.archive.org/web/20060216162711/http://blaklion.best.vwh.net/centaur.html Centaur character list]
* [https://web.archive.org/web/20070120111155/http://www.mightycrusaders.net/protectors.htm Protectors site]
* [[Jim Steranko|Steranko, Jim]] (1972). ''The Steranko History of Comics 2''. Supergraphics. pp. 91–109. (offline)

{{Comic book publishers in North America navbox}}
{{GoldenAge}}

[[Category:Centaur Publications| ]]
[[Category:1938 comics debuts]]
[[Category:1942 comics endings]]

Masked Marvel (Centaur Publications)

2025-05-13T23:16:37Z

141.136.167.114:

{{short description|Centuar Publications comic book superhero}}
{{Infobox comics character 
| character_name = The Masked Marvel (Nightmask I)
| image = MaskedMarvel comic book 2.jpg
| imagesize = 200
| converted = y
| caption = Cover art for ''The Masked Marvel'' #2.
| publisher = [[Centaur Publications]]
| debut = ''Keen Detective Funnies'' Vol. 2 #7 (July 1939)
| creators = Ben Thompson<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.lambiek.net/artists/t/thompson_ben.htm|title = Ben Thompson}}</ref>
| alter_ego = Unknown (Centaur Publications) Philip Reinhart (Malibu Comics)
| full_name =
| species =
| homeworld = 
| alliances = ZL, ZR, and ZY; The Protectors (Malibu Comics)
| partners = Richard Reinhart (son) (Malibu Comics)
| aliases = Philip Reinhart
| supports = 
| powers = Skilled fighter, inventor and user of gadgets.
}}

'''The Masked Marvel''' is a fictional superhero originally published by [[Centaur Publications]]. He debuted in July 1939, on the pages of ''Keen Detective Funnies'' #7.<ref>{{cite web |last1=Markstein |first1=Don |website=Don Markstein's Toonopedia |access-date=2 April 2020 |url=http://www.toonopedia.com/maskmarv.htm |title=The Masked Marvel}}</ref> The character continued to appear as the feature in ''Keen Detective Funnies'' until the 24th issue, as well as in his own title, which lasted three issues.<ref>{{cite book |last1=Benton |first1=Mike |title=Superhero Comics of the Golden Age: The Illustrated History |date=1992 |publisher=Taylor Publishing Company |location=Dallas |isbn=0-87833-808-X |url=https://archive.org/details/superherocomicso0000bent/page/172 |access-date=1 April 2020 |page=172}}</ref>

When Centaur Comics went out of business in 1942, he became dormant,<ref>{{cite book |last1=Mitchell |first1=Kurt |last2=Thomas |first2=Roy |title=American Comic Book Chronicles: 1940-1944 |date=2019 |publisher=TwoMorrows Publishing |isbn=978-1605490892 |page=162}}</ref> until he was revived by [[Malibu Comics]], where he acted as director of the government-run superhero team known as ''[[Protectors (comics)|Protectors]]''. His son, who took up his father's identity, became part of the team. Fearing the lawsuit by Marvel Comics, the writers changed Masked Marvel's name to ''Nightmask'' (apparently unaware of the irony that Marvel had already created a superhero by that name, as part of their [[New Universe]] imprint, six years earlier). Both Nightmasks remained prominent parts of the cast until the title's cancellation. A short time later, Malibu Comics was acquired by Marvel. Since then, Masked Marvel has not appeared aside from occasional appearances in crowd scenes in [[AC Comics]]' ''[[Femforce]]''.

== Golden Age Masked Marvel ==
The original Masked Marvel is a non-powered scarlet-suited hero whose secret identity is never revealed.<ref>{{cite book |last1=Mitchell |first1=Kurt |last2=Thomas |first2=Roy |title=American Comic Book Chronicles: 1940-1944 |date=2019 |publisher=TwoMorrows Publishing |isbn=978-1605490892 |page=40}}</ref> He fights crime with the help of a trio of assistants known as ZL, ZR, and ZY.<ref name=Nevins>{{cite book |last1=Nevins |first1=Jess |title=Encyclopedia of Golden Age Superheroes |date=2013 |publisher=High Rock Press |isbn=978-1-61318-023-5 |page=175}}</ref> He operates out of a glass-domed mountaintop headquarters. He has a number of gadgets and weapons, such as an amphibious airplane, a paralyzing ray gun and a ''televisor'', a video device which lets him see anywhere in the world.<ref name=Mougin>{{cite book |last1=Mougin |first1=Lou |title=Secondary Superheroes of Golden Age Comics |date=2020 |publisher=McFarland & Co |isbn=9781476638607|pages=9–11}}</ref>

According to ''Jess Nevins' Encyclopedia of Golden Age Superheroes'', "he fights ordinary criminals like stamp counterfeiters and oil field saboteurs, and he fights extraordinary criminals like the Hawk, groups like a confederation of the four largest criminal syndicates in the country, and the Red Raider, an insane submarine captain turned pirate".<ref name=Nevins/>

== Nightmask ==
This version was essentially identical to the original, but his back story was fleshed out and expanded. He was revealed to be Philip Reinhart, a young prodigy who already had established a successful business at the age of 20, but his success only left him longing for more. Inspired by ''[[Clock (comics)|The Clock]]'', he became a crime-fighter known as Nightmask. Eventually, the two men met and formed a lasting friendship. When World War II broke out, they decided to give up crime-fighting and enlist, both out of the sense of duty and the feeling that the proliferation of super-powered heroes made them increasingly irrelevant. After the war, Phillip decided to focus on business endeavors. During this time, he was briefly married to Erika Blaine and fathered a son, Richard.

In 1988, the Clock became president in his civilian guise. At the former's request, Phillip became head of the project designed to track various super-powered beings, just in case the government should need their services. That proved to be a prudent measure, as the increasing supervillain activity made the need for a team of super-powered heroes starkly clear. In 1992, Phillip used the intelligence he gathered to form a super-powered team known as The Protectors. He acted as the team's director, charting the overall course of the team while delegating field decisions to'' Man of War''.

== Richard Reinhart==
[[Image:RReinhart HCV.jpg|185px|thumb|left|Nightmask II (Richard Reinhart) of ''[[Protectors (comics)|Protectors]]'' #5.]]
Richard Reinhart was the son of the original Nightmask. At the age of 3, he found himself in the midst of a bitter custody battle between his parents. He eventually wound up living with his mother. He went through his life without much direction, finishing college without earning a degree and spent several years drifting through Europe after leaving college. The relationship between him and his father was strained at best.

When Richard learned about the formation of the Protectors, he petitioned the President directly, asking him to let him be part of team. The request was accepted, much to Richard's father's chagrin.

Richard wore a slightly modified version of his father's costume. He lacked his father's gadgets and possessed no extraordinary skills, but was determined to prove himself in spite of it.

==Marcia Beckworth==
[[Image:NM3 HCV.jpg|185px|thumb|right|Nightmask III (Marcia Beckworth) in ''[[Protectors (comics)|Protectors]]''.]]
Marcia Beckworth is a granddaughter of one of the assistants of the original NightMask. She met Richard Reinhart at the grave of her grandfather, and made such a strong impression on him that he asked that she be made his assistant in aiding the Protectors. For a few weeks she was the behind-the-scenes glue that helped the Protectors stick together, acting as a motherly, and guiding figure. After Richard Reinhart died, she was visited at his tomb by the mysterious [[Eye (Centaur Publications)#Revivals|Eye]], and either granted powers or had her latent powers brought forth.

==References==
{{Reflist}}

==External links==
* [http://www.toonopedia.com/maskmarv.htm Masked Marvel] at [[Don Markstein's Toonopedia]]. [https://archive.today/20130625063032/http://www.toonopedia.com/maskmarv.htm Archived] from the original on February 15, 2016.

{{GoldenAge}}

[[Category:Fictional aviators]]
[[Category:1939 comics debuts]]
[[Category:1940 comics endings]]
[[Category:Protectors characters]]
[[Category:Golden Age superheroes]]
[[Category:Comics characters introduced in 1939]]
[[Category:Male characters in comics]]
[[Category:Public domain comics]]

Fantom of the Fair

2025-05-13T23:11:47Z

141.136.167.114:

{{Infobox comics character
| character_name = Fantom of the Fair
| image =
| imagesize = 200
| converted = y
| caption = Cover art for ''Amazing Mystery Funnies'' vol. 2, #7.
| publisher = [[Centaur Publications]]
| debut = ''Amazing Mystery Funnies'' vol. 2, #7 (July 1939), revived in 1986 as Phantom of the Fair (''Secret Origins'' #7, October 1986) by [[DC Comics]], revived again in 1992 as Gravestone in the ''[[Protectors (comics)|Protectors]]'' of [[Malibu Comics]]
| creators =
| alter_ego =
| full_name =
| species =
| homeworld = 
| alliances = 
| partners = 
| aliases = 
| supports = 
| powers = Stealth, teleportation, and emotional manipulation (feelings of fear to people close to him)
}}
The '''Fantom of the Fair''' is one of the earliest published [[Golden Age of Comic Books|Golden Age]] [[superhero]]es. He debuted in [[Centaur Publications]]' ''[[Amazing Mystery Funnies]]'' vol. 2, #7 ([[cover-date]]d July 1939), the overall 11th issue of that title.<ref>{{cite web |last1=Markstein |first1=Don |website=Don Markstein's Toonopedia |access-date=2 April 2020 |url=http://www.toonopedia.com/fantom.htm |title=The Fantom of the Fair}}</ref> He premiered, according to cover dates, the same month as [[DC Comics]]' [[Sandman (Wesley Dodds)|Sandman]], [[Fox Publications]]' [[The Flame (comics)|The Flame]], and Centaur's [[Masked Marvel (Centaur Publications)|Masked Marvel]]. He was created by [[Paul Gustavson]], who had previously created the [[Arrow (comics)|Arrow]] for Centaur.<ref name=Mougin>{{cite book |last1=Mougin |first1=Lou |title=Secondary Superheroes of Golden Age Comics |date=2020 |publisher=McFarland & Co |isbn=9781476638607|pages=7–9}}</ref>

His early adventures are set fighting threats at the 1939 [[1939 New York World's Fair|New York World's Fair]]. He lives in a subterranean chamber under the Fair, and he travels via secret trap doors placed around the fairgrounds.<ref name=Chronicles>{{cite book |last1=Mitchell |first1=Kurt |last2=Thomas |first2=Roy |title=American Comic Book Chronicles: 1940-1944 |date=2019 |publisher=TwoMorrows Publishing |isbn=978-1605490892 |pages=40–41}}</ref> He spots criminals by using his "crimetracking televisor".<ref>{{cite book |last1=Nevins |first1=Jess |title=Encyclopedia of Golden Age Superheroes |date=2013 |publisher=High Rock Press |isbn=978-1-61318-023-5 |page=96}}</ref> During the time between the 1939 and 1940 Fair seasons, he travels in a series of stories set outside the Fair.<ref>{{cite book |last1=Benton |first1=Mike |title=Superhero Comics of the Golden Age: The Illustrated History |date=1992 |publisher=Taylor Publishing Company |location=Dallas |isbn=0-87833-808-X |url=https://archive.org/details/superherocomicso0000bent/page/162 |access-date=8 April 2020 |page=163}}</ref> He was often shown during these outside stories in a simple suit, with a hat brim hiding his features.

He was originally clad in an all-black hood and bodysuit, with a purple cape, but soon adopted an open-faced cowl and red cape around the close of the 1939 Fair season. The Fantom was seldom displayed with overt powers, but demonstrated the ability to tamper with people's memories and displayed incredible strength in his initial appearance. His first adventure showed an ancient book that indicated that the Fantom had lived in Iceland 1000 years ago.

The Fantom of the Fair appeared through ''Amazing Mystery Comics'' vol. 3, #8 (Sept. 1940). In this final issue, he was called Fantoman, because by this time the World's Fair had ended.<ref name=Chronicles/>

His adventures were reprinted in ''Amazing Adventure Funnies'' #1 (June 1940) and in ''Fantoman'' #2–4 (Aug.-Dec. 1940). Other artists on the series included Frank Thomas, [[Harry Sahle]], and writer [[George Kapitan]].

==Other versions==
A villainous character based on the Fantom of the Fair, the "Phantom of the Fair", appeared in a revised version of the Golden Age [[Sandman (Wesley Dodds)|Sandman's]] origin in [[DC Comics]] ''Secret Origins'' Vol. 2 #7 (October 1986), and received a character profile in ''Who's Who: Update '87'' Vol 1 #4 (November 1987). A more murderous incarnation of this version later appeared in ''[[Sandman Mystery Theatre]]'' #41–44.

[[Malibu Comics]] revived the character under the name Gravestone. Little is known about the mysterious Gravestone other than that he appears to be hundreds, possibly thousands, of years old. He comes and goes at will, favoring the cloaking shelter of night and shadows.<ref>[http://www.mightycrusaders.net/mp_whoswho.htm "Who's Who in the Protectors"] {{webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110723210309/http://www.mightycrusaders.net/mp_whoswho.htm|date=2011-07-23}}</ref>

==References==
{{Reflist}}

==External links==
* [http://toonopedia.com/fantom.htm Fantom of the Fair] at [[Don Markstein's Toonopedia]]. [https://archive.today/20130625063308/http://www.toonopedia.com/fantom.htm Archived] from the original on April 15, 2012.

{{GoldenAge}}
{{Avengers characters}}

[[Category:Centaur Publications titles]]
[[Category:Centaur Publications characters]]
[[Category:Protectors characters]]
[[Category:Golden Age superheroes]]
[[Category:Comics characters introduced in 1939]]
[[Category:Comics characters who can teleport]]

Eye (Centaur Publications)

2025-05-13T23:07:46Z

141.136.167.114:

{{Infobox comics character 
|character_name = The Eye
|image = Eyesees.jpg
|converted = y
|publisher = [[Centaur Publications]]
|debut = ''Keen Detective Funnies'' vol. 2, #12 (December 1939)
|creators = [[Frank Thomas (comics)|Frank Thomas]]
|alliances = [[Protectors (comics)|The Protectors]]
|powers = [[Omnipotence]] [[Immortality]] [[Teleportation]] [[Invisibility]] [[Transvection (flying)|Transvection]] [[Telekenisis]] [[Pyrokinesis]] Heat/X-ray vision Ability to work [[miracle]]s
|subcat = Centaur Publications
|sortkey = Eye (Centaur Publications)
}}

'''The Eye''' is a fictional [[comic book]] character created by [[Frank Thomas (comics)|Frank Thomas]] and published by [[Centaur Publications]]. The character had no origin story, and existed only as a giant, floating, disembodied eye, wreathed in a halo of golden light.<ref>{{cite book |last1=Yoe |first1=Craig |title=Super Weird Heroes Vol. 2: Preposterous But True |date=2018 |publisher=Yoe Books |isbn=978-1631408588 |page=70}}</ref> This powerful being was obsessed with the concept of [[justice]], and existed to encourage average people to do what they could to attain it for themselves. If the obstacles proved too great, the Eye would assist its mortal charges by working miracles. Time and space meant nothing to the Eye and it existed as a [[Personification|physical embodiment]] of man's inner [[conscience]].

The Eye appeared in the pages of Centaur's ''Keen Detective Funnies'' for 16 issues ([[cover-date]]d December 1939 – September 1940), in a feature entitled "The Eye Sees". The feature began with the book's 16th issue, and continued until the title folded after its 24th issue (September 1940). Following its run in ''Keen Detective'', Centaur promoted the Eye to its own book, ''Detective Eye'', which ran for two issues (Nov.-Dec. 1940) before folding as well.<ref>{{cite book |last1=Benton |first1=Mike |title=Superhero Comics of the Golden Age: The Illustrated History |date=1992 |publisher=Taylor Publishing Company |location=Dallas |isbn=0-87833-808-X |url=https://archive.org/details/superherocomicso0000bent |url-access=registration |access-date=8 April 2020 |pages=[https://archive.org/details/superherocomicso0000bent/page/160 160], 168}}</ref>

A copycat feature called "The Hand" appeared in [[Harvey Comics]]' ''Speed Comics'' issues #12-13 (March–May 1941), with a huge disembodied hand tapping people on the shoulder and admonishing them for their wrongdoing.<ref>{{cite book |last1=Mitchell |first1=Kurt |last2=Thomas |first2=Roy |title=American Comic Book Chronicles: 1940-1944 |date=2019 |publisher=TwoMorrows Publishing |isbn=978-1605490892 |page=100}}</ref>

==Characteristics==
The Eye had the ability to fly, appear and disappear, melt solid steel and bring invisible forces to bear, but had to work with human agents to fight crime.<ref name=regrettable>{{cite book |last1=Morris |first1=Jon |title=The League of Regrettable Superheroes: Half Baked Heroes from Comic Book History |date=2015 |publisher=Quirk Books |location=Philadelphia, Pennsylvania |isbn=978-1-59474-763-2 |page=46}}</ref> The Eye was a magical being "to whom time and distance are nothing — who bares man's thoughts and pierces his conscience!"<ref>{{cite book |last1=Mitchell |first1=Kurt |last2=Thomas |first2=Roy |title=American Comic Book Chronicles: 1940-1944 |date=2019 |publisher=TwoMorrows Publishing |isbn=978-1605490892 |pages=40–41}}</ref>

Don Markstein writes:

{{blockquote|The Eye missed being properly referred to as simply a flying eyeball by never quite being seen floating freely, or shown from behind. It seemed to have skin, even lashes, attached, and was sometimes surrounded by what looked like yellow fire. It could have been interpreted as a giant humanoid, peeping through a flaming hole in the air. No explanation was ever given as to where it came from or what made it what it was. It was just there, turning up from time to time to help a good guy and/or hinder a bad one, neither of which would be seen in subsequent stories. It talked (again, without a mouth) like an omnipotent, omnibenevolent being, with a strong flair for melodrama. Was it supposed to be the Eye of God? Not stated, tho most stories began with lengthy captions alleging that time and distance meant nothing to it.<ref>{{cite web |last1=Markstein |first1=Don |title=The Eye Sees |url=http://www.toonopedia.com/eyesees.htm |website=Don Markstein's Toonopedia |access-date=14 January 2020}}</ref>}}

The Eye was assisted by human Jack Barrister, who helps the Eye pursue criminals and bring them to justice.<ref>{{cite book |last1=Nevins |first1=Jess |title=Encyclopedia of Golden Age Superheroes |date=2013 |publisher=High Rock Press |isbn=978-1-61318-023-5 |page=94}}</ref>

==Appearances==
===Golden Age===
* ''Keen Detective Funnies'' vol. 2, #12
* ''Keen Detective Funnies'' vol. 3, #1
* ''Keen Detective Funnies'' #18–24
* ''Detective Eye'' #1, #2

===Reprints===
In 1987, [[Michael T. Gilbert]] included one of the original Centaur Publications Eye stories in the first issue his two-part anthology comic, ''[[Mr. Monster]]'s Hi-Shock Schlock''.

===Revivals===
In 1992, [[Malibu Comics]] revived several Centaur heroes—which by that time had lapsed into public domain—as the [[superhero]] team the [[Protectors (comics)|Protectors]]. A reworked version of the Eye appeared as a supporting character throughout the series' 20-issue run through 1994.<ref>Letters page, ''The Protectors'' #20, 1994.</ref>

==Fictional history==
The Eye is first shown in ''Keen Detective Funnies'' vol. 2 issue #12 (or ''Keen Detective Funnies'' #16), appearing before Afghanistan refugees E.D. Mattes and his daughter, Ann, who were forced out of their country by Mattes' business rival, Islam Herat. The Eye informs them that he will have use for them before disappearing. The two mention that The Eye is a well known figure in Afghan culture, although there is no real world proof to back that up outside of the [[Nazar (amulet)|Nazar]]. Herat orders two of his subordinates to assassinate Mattes in New York City and to bring his daughter back to him so that he can marry her. The Eye destroys their plane before they reach America, then returns to Mattes and orders him to write a letter back to Herat stating that the job was completed. He then tells them to journey to Kabul, where Mattes poses as his own ghost to get Herat to confess. He's then arrested by the police and Mattes is given his old position again.<ref>''Keen Detective Funnies'' #16</ref>

The Eye next appears after an old man is murdered by a hitman called "Monk" and the blame is placed on a driver who first arrived on the scene. Monk was hired by the old man's niece, Lucille Hodson, as part of a plan to make herself sole heiress of his fortune. The Eye frees the driver from his prison cell by melting the bars and tells him to inform Hodson that he works for Monk, who is confessing to the police. She impulsively goes to the police station to provide proof that Monk was behind the murder, accidentally indicting herself. Monk tries to escape, but The Eye telepathically lifts his car and places it on top of a telephone pole, allowing the police to apprehend him.<ref>''Keen Detective Funnies'' #17</ref>

In the fictional Republic of Othsania, a group of arms dealers led by the one-eyed Ganza are digging a tunnel to the American consulate, intending to bomb it and blame the opposing side, prolonging the war. The Eye wakes the daughter of the U.S. ambassador, who had heard the men's voices the day before, and tells her not to warn anyone about them yet. Ganza's men finish laying the explosives and he poisons them to cover his tracks. The Eye moves the explosives from underneath the consulate to underneath Ganza's hiding place so that when he activates them, he dies in the explosion. The negotiations between America and Othsania are completed, and the ambassador is sent home.<ref>''Keen Detective Funnies'' #18</ref>

Manuel Rossoff has been ordered to appear before "The Committee Investigating Un-American Activities", but he plans to bomb the room holding evidence against him. A paperboy walks in on them discussing their plans, so they tie him to a chair. The Eye appears to him and disintegrates the ropes. Manuel presents his defense, but as he's leaving The Eye paralyzes them and orders the paperboy to tie them up. The kid then goes and finds a police officer who arrests them.<ref>''Keen Detective Funnies'' #19</ref>

A group of immigrants illegally enter the country by way of plane smuggling, but one of them is caught by a racist old man and his daughter. The latter goes to get the sheriff, who holds him in a cell until he decides what to do with him. Since the immigrant will probably go free, The Eye decides to alert the old man to where the next parachuting immigrants will be. It then catches the parachuters and holds them midair until the old man and his daughter arrive. The Eye then hijacks and crashes the plane, murdering the two smugglers. This is the first issue in which The Eye does not save or protect anyone's life.<ref>''Keen Detective Funnies'' #20</ref>

A boxer named "Tiny" is training to fight "Kid Wilson" but is not as tough as he used to be. Kid's coach, however, decides to cheat by using a gaseous sedative that will knock out his opponents. The Eye tells Tiny to stuff his nose with cotton and to target Kid's nose in order to dislodge his cotton. Tiny does and beats Kid, becoming "the new world's heavyweight champion". After the match, The Eye appears before the coach, scaring him and causing him to fall, breaking the vial and knocking out everyone in the locker room. The boxing commission discovers what they did and fire them.<ref>''Keen Detective Funnies'' #21</ref>

Two ex-mob convicts, "Bull" and "Tip the Drip", are about to be broken out of prison by their accomplices, Danny and "Clipper". Danny also plans to bring Bull's wife, Maizie, along with them so Bull can murder her for testifying against him. The Eye goes to Maizie and tells her to go along with it until he gives her further instructions. When the mobsters show up, she resists going with them at first but they force her out with threats. Meanwhile, Bull starts a riot and overpowers the guards, forcing himself into the tower. After scaling the wall, Bull knocks out Tip and uses him as a human shield against the guard's bullets. He is about to get away, but The Eye shines a bright light on him, giving away his location and allowing the guards to shoot him down. The Eye then makes Danny and Clipper fall asleep, allowing Maizie to inform the guards about their plan.<ref>''Keen Detective Funnies'' #22</ref>

Attorney at law Jack Barrister is investigating a local gangster called Rigonie that has been performing robberies. Despite being a lawyer, he seems to perform the same activities as a police detective. The Eye appears to him and encourages him to pursue his lead. It is implied that Jack and The Eye have worked together before. Rigonie assassinates Jack's lead and then attempts to have Jack assassinated, and he returns home to find that his wife, Fay, has received telephone threats. That evening, she's kidnapped by Rigonie's men. The Eye informs Jack, but reassures him that everything will work out. Jack heads over to the house of his partner, Chick, and the two plan to show up at one of their robberies with some friends in the police force to rescue Fay. In the ensuing battle, Rigonie accidentally shoots his top lieutenant, Silky, while aiming for Jack. Jack then shoots Rigonie and embraces his wife. The Eye appears to congratulate Jack, who says that he couldn't have done it with The Eye's help.<ref>''Detective Eye'' #1</ref> Later, when Jack and Fay are on vacation, The Eye appears before them again, demanding their help. He alerts him to the existence of Otto Ledmann, a local pirate. Jack goes down to the docks to investigate, but Fay insists on going with him. The two sneak onto Ledmann's home while he's away and discover several treasures, including a safe full of gems with each one representing a life taken by Ledmann. Fay finds a ledger of Ledmann's records right as Ledmann returns from a pirating mission. The two escape in a shoot out. With the help of Mr. Hawkins, the next target according to Ledmann's ledger, and the two ambush Ledmann's crew. Ledmann attempts to escape in a [[diving suit]], but Jack chases after him. Ledmann tricks on a rock and smashes his helmet on coral, drowning him.<ref>''Detective Eye'' #2</ref>

==References==
{{Reflist}}

{{GoldenAge}}
{{Avengers characters}}

[[Category:Golden Age superheroes]]
[[Category:Comics characters introduced in 1939]]
[[Category:Centaur Publications titles]]
[[Category:Comics characters who can move at superhuman speeds]]
[[Category:Comics characters who can teleport]]
[[Category:Comics characters with superhuman strength]]
[[Category:Eyes in culture]]
[[Category:Public domain comics]]

Clock (character)

2025-05-13T23:05:30Z

141.136.167.114:

{{Short description|Hero from the Golden Age of Comics}}
{{Infobox comics character 
| character_name = The Clock
| image = Funny Picture Stories 1.jpg
| caption = ''Funny Picture Stories'' #1 (November 1936) by Comic Magazine Company
| publisher = [[Centaur Publications|Comics Magazine Company]] [[Ultem Publications]] [[Quality Comics]]
| debut = ''Funny Pages'' #6 and ''Funny Picture Stories'' #1 (November 1936)
| creators = [[George Brenner]]
| alter_ego = Brian O'Brien
| full_name =
| species =
| homeworld = 
| alliances = 
| partners = Pug Brady Butch
| aliases = 
| supports = 
| powers =
}}

The '''Clock''' is a fictional masked crime-fighter character created in 1936, during the [[Golden Age of Comic Books]]. He was the first fully-masked hero to appear in [[American comic books]].<ref>{{cite book |last1=Booker |first1=M. Keith |title=Encyclopedia of Comic Books and Graphic Novels, Volume 2 |date=2010 |publisher=Greenwood Press |isbn=9780313357466 |page=493 |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=K2J7DpUItEMC&dq=clock+quality+comics&pg=PA493 |access-date=15 March 2020}}</ref>

==History==
Created by cartoonist [[George Brenner]], the Clock first appeared in the Comics Magazine Company publication ''Funny Picture Stories'' #1 (Nov 1936).<ref>{{cite book |last1=Benton |first1=Mike |title=Superhero Comics of the Golden Age: The Illustrated History |date=1992 |publisher=Taylor Publishing Company |location=Dallas |isbn=0-87833-808-X |url=https://archive.org/details/superherocomicso0000bent/page/164 |access-date=8 April 2020 |pages=164–165}}</ref> According to ''Secondary Superheroes of Golden Age Comics'':

{{blockquote|''The Clock'' appeared on the first cover, wearing a hat, a tux, and a black handkerchief-style face mask, holding a cane, both arms up as he was frisked by a gang of bad guys... The hero was a variation on the masked detectives of the pulps and radio. He hung out in "a sub-cellar located below the heart of the city", and got a villain to talk by showing him some of the furnishings he had around: an iron maiden, a rack, and a thumb-hanging device. Helped out by a gimmick in his cane, the Clock nabbed the gang of jewel thieves he was after and turned them in to the police. A note he left for a police captain burst into flames shortly after it was read.<ref name=Mougin>{{cite book |last1=Mougin |first1=Lou |title=Secondary Superheroes of Golden Age Comics |date=2020 |publisher=McFarland & Co |isbn=9781476638607 |pages=5–6 |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=KqHJDwAAQBAJ&dq=clock+quality+comics&pg=PA6 |access-date=15 March 2020}}</ref>}}

A hypnotist with a secret underground lair, his minimalist costume as a master of disguise was a three-piece suit and mask. The Clock used a number of gadgets (including a cane whose head becomes a projectile, and a diamond stud which fires [[tear gas]]), and customarily left a calling card with a clock face and "The Clock Has Struck". The Clock's [[secret identity]] was eventually disclosed as Brian O'Brien, a wealthy member of high society.<ref name=Mougin/>

According to ''Jess Nevins' Encyclopedia of Golden Age Superheroes'', "the criminals he fights are usually ordinary gangsters and Nazis, but there is also the occasional mad scientist and superhuman (like the massive, bullet-proof idiot Stuporman)".<ref>{{cite book |last1=Nevins |first1=Jess |title=Encyclopedia of Golden Age Superheroes |date=2013 |publisher=High Rock Press |isbn=978-1-61318-023-5 |page=59}}</ref>

[[Image:Crack Comics 1.jpg|left|thumb|125px|alt=Comic-book cover, with masked man pointing a gun at a villain|Quality Comics' ''[[Crack Comics]]'' #1 (May 1940)]]

The character appeared in ''Funny Pages'' #6–11 and other titles from the Comics Magazine Company, including ''Detective Picture Stories'' and ''Keen Detective Funnies''.<ref name=Mougin/> In 1937 the company was bought by [[Ultem Publications]], which encountered financial difficulties and sold the Clock (and other characters) to [[Quality Comics]]. Ultem was purchased and renamed [[Centaur Publications]]; despite the sale to Quality, Centaur continued to reprint old Clock stories.<ref>{{cite web |last1=Markstein |first1=Don |title=The Clock |url=http://www.toonopedia.com/clock.htm |website=Don Markstein's Toonopedia |access-date=2 April 2020}}</ref>

The Clock continued to be written and drawn in new stories by Brenner in ''Feature Funnies'' (later retitled ''[[Feature Comics]]'') from #3 (December 1937) through #31 (April 1940), and was featured on the cover of issues #25, #28 and #29.<ref name=Companion>{{cite book |last1=Koolman |first1=Mike |last2=Amash |first2=Jim |title=The Quality Companion |date=2011 |publisher=Two Morrows Publishing |isbn=9781605490373 |pages=110–112}}</ref> The Clock feature was moved to ''[[Crack Comics]]'' #1 (May 1940).<ref>{{cite book |last1=Booker |first1=M. Keith |title=Comics Through Time: A History of Icons, Idols, and Ideas |date=2014 |publisher=ABC-CLIO |isbn=9780313397516 |page=138 |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=hnuQBQAAQBAJ&q=clock%20 |access-date=15 March 2020}}</ref>

When Centaur sold the Clock to Quality, he acquired a sidekick.<ref>{{cite book |last1=Mitchell |first1=Kurt |last2=Thomas |first2=Roy |title=American Comic Book Chronicles: 1940-1944 |date=2019 |publisher=TwoMorrows Publishing |isbn=978-1605490892 |page=36}}</ref> He was first assisted by Pat "Pug" Brady, a former boxer who looked exactly like Brian O'Brien; they met when picking each other's pockets in ''Crack Comics'' #1. Pug's disguise was even more minimal, consisting of a handkerchief worn like a bandanna. In his first story with the Clock, Pug discovered his secret identity and killed another character who made the same discovery.

In ''Crack Comics'' #21 Pug disappeared without explanation as the Clock, shot, crawled into a basement to die. A young girl, Butch Buchanan, was [[squatting]] in the basement and nursed him back to health. She became his "moll", and from issue #22 his costume was similar to that of the Spirit. The Clock alternated appearances on the cover of ''Crack Comics'' with the [[Black Condor]] until #19, continuing as a backup feature of that title until his final appearance in ''Crack Comics'' #35 (Autumn 1944).

After Quality Comics ceased operations in 1956, [[DC Comics]] acquired the rights to its characters. It did not renew the copyright for most of its characters (including the Clock), allowing them to fall into the public domain, and has not used the Clock apart from a few mentions. In the [[DC Universe]], the Clock was initially said to have been killed in 1944 (the year of his final appearance). In ''[[Starman (DC Comics Modern Age)|Starman]]'' Vol. 2 #19 [[the Shade]] wrote in his journal: "Brian O'Brien told me the reports of his death were greatly exaggerated". In ''Starman'' #20 O'Brien was said to be active in [[Chicago]], despite several Golden Age references to his home city as a seaport.

==Other versions==
In 1992, [[Malibu Comics]] published 20 issues of ''[[Protectors (comics)|The Protectors]]'', starring a [[superhero]] team including several characters from the Centaur line. In this universe, Brian O'Brien was the first costumed hero. With the advent of super-powered heroes, he gave up crimefighting and joined the army. O'Brien rose through the ranks, eventually becoming President of the United States.

In 2013, [[Dynamite Entertainment]] published an eight-issue miniseries, ''Masks'', with several pulp and comic-book characters fighting the Justice Party (which has taken over New York State). In issue #7, Brian O'Brien is revealed as the shadowy figure behind the Party.

==References==
{{reflist}}

==External links==
* [http://members.tripod.com/srca1941/AAC34-2-1.html On-Line Reprint of a Clock Adventure]
* [https://web.archive.org/web/20070113145908/http://www.anerispress.com/ena/clock.html Eye-n-Apple's Golden Age Gallery page on the Clock]
* [http://www.toonopedia.com/clock.htm The Clock] at [[Don Markstein's Toonopedia]]. [https://archive.today/20120917173205/http://www.toonopedia.com/clock.htm Archived] from the original on April 13, 2012.

{{GoldenAge}}
{{Avengers characters}}

{{DEFAULTSORT:Clock, The}}
[[Category:Golden Age superheroes]]
[[Category:1936 comics debuts]]
[[Category:Comics characters introduced in 1936]]
[[Category:Crime comics]]
[[Category:DC Comics male characters]]
[[Category:Detective comics]]
[[Category:Fictional lawyers]]
[[Category:Protectors characters]]
[[Category:Quality Comics characters]]
[[Category:Quality Comics titles]]

Arrow (character)

2025-05-13T23:01:01Z

141.136.167.114:

{{About||the DC Comics character|Green Arrow}}
{{Infobox comics character 
| character_name = The Arrow
| image = Funny Pages vol4 1jpg.jpg
| imagesize = 200
| converted = y
| caption = The Arrow, on the cover of ''Funny Pages'' vol. 4, #1 (January 1940), art by [[Paul Gustavson]].
| publisher = [[Centaur Publications]]
| debut = ''Funny Pages'' #21 (September [[1938 in comics|1938]])
| creators = [[Paul Gustavson]]
| alter_ego = Ralph Payne (Centaur Comics) Rick Parker (Malibu Comics)
| alliances = [[Protectors (comics)|The Protectors]] (Malibu Comics)
| aliases = 
| powers = Highly skilled archer
}}
'''The Arrow''' is a fictional superhero created during the [[Golden Age of Comic Books]]. He was the first [[superhero]] published by [[Centaur Publications]].<ref name=Mougin>{{cite book |last1=Mougin |first1=Lou |title=Secondary Superheroes of Golden Age Comics |date=2020 |publisher=McFarland & Co |isbn=9781476638607|pages=6–7}}</ref>

The character first appeared in 1938 in ''Funny Pages'' #21 (numbered vol. 2, #10; dated September 1938).<ref>{{cite web |last1=Markstein |first1=Don |title=The Arrow |url=http://www.toonopedia.com/arrow.htm |website=Don Markstein's Toonopedia |access-date=1 April 2020}}</ref> He continued in the comic until issue #42 (Oct 1940), and then had his own series, ''The Arrow'', which lasted for three issues from Oct 1940 to Oct 1941.<ref>{{cite book |last1=Benton |first1=Mike |title=Superhero Comics of the Golden Age: The Illustrated History |date=1992 |publisher=Taylor Publishing Company |location=Dallas |isbn=0-87833-808-X |url=https://archive.org/details/superherocomicso0000bent/page/150 |access-date=8 April 2020 |page=150}}</ref>

The Arrow is actually Ralph Payne, a military intelligence agent who uses his archery skills to fight crime. He delivers messages via arrow, both to criminals and the police, and uses his bow to kill the evildoers.<ref>{{cite book |last1=Nevins |first1=Jess |title=Encyclopedia of Golden Age Superheroes |date=2013 |publisher=High Rock Press |isbn=978-1-61318-023-5 |page=13}}</ref> Today, the Arrow is mostly remembered for being the first American superhero to rely on [[archery]] as a primary gimmick.<ref name="hi">{{Cite journal | last=Tiefenbacher | first=Mike | title=Hero History | journal=[[Hero Illustrated]] | issue=#13 | page=19 | date=July 1994}}</ref>

==Centaur Publications==
The character was created for [[Centaur Publications]] by [[Paul Gustavson]]. After Gustavson's departure from the company, [[Bob Lubbers]] took over the strip. During Lubbers' tenure, the character's true identity was revealed for the first time: he was a military intelligence agent named Ralph Payne.<ref>{{cite book |last1=Mitchell |first1=Kurt |last2=Thomas |first2=Roy |title=American Comic Book Chronicles: 1940-1944 |date=2019 |publisher=TwoMorrows Publishing |isbn=978-1605490892 |page=40}}</ref>

==Malibu Comics==
[[Image:ArrowMalibuComics.jpg|thumb|130px|left|Malibu Comics' version of the Arrow.]]
After Centaur Publications went out of business in 1942,<ref>{{cite book |last1=Mitchell |first1=Kurt |last2=Thomas |first2=Roy |title=American Comic Book Chronicles: 1940-1944 |date=2019 |publisher=TwoMorrows Publishing |isbn=978-1605490892 |page=162}}</ref> the Arrow, along with most other company properties, lapsed into public domain. The Arrow was briefly revived by [[Malibu Comics]], appearing as part of their [[Protectors (comics)|Protectors]]/Genesis imprint. He starred in the ''Protectors'' series and the ''Arrow'' one-shot. The character has been dormant after [[Marvel Comics]] acquired Malibu Comics, although some of his [[Golden Age of Comic Books|Golden Age]] adventures were reprinted by [[AC Comics]].

In Malibu Comics' Protectors/Genesis universe, the Arrow is a former intelligence agent named Rick Palmer. Born somewhere in Texas, he grew up to become an avid hunter. His weapon of choice is the bow and arrow, because he feels that said weapons represent the greatest challenge and give the prey the fairest chance. Following a stint with the military, Rick is recruited into one of the intelligence branches of the US government. He is posted in a small, struggling Latin American country caught in the throes of civil war. While there, he witnesses the massacre of an entire village by the modernized forces loyal to that country's government. He eventually learns the country is being funded by the US government. Sickened by what he learned, Rick resigns. He decides to use his archery skills to fight for justice, adopting the crime-fighting identity of the Arrow, the hunter of men.

The Arrow primarily operates alone. At one point, he teams up with a number of heroes during a battle in Brinkston — an event whose ultimate outcome convinces him to retire. When the members of the Protectors are asked to face Mr. Monday and re-form the superhero team, the Arrow requests to join his former comrades, but is refused due to his violent approach.

==Dynamite Entertainment==
The Arrow is one of the many [[public domain]] Golden Age characters appearing in ''[[Project Superpowers]]'', a 2008 miniseries released by [[Dynamite Entertainment]].<ref>{{comicbookdb|type=team|id=1317|title=Superpowers (team)}}</ref> He made several short appearances in the series. He also appears in two Dynamite's series, ''The Death-Defying 'Devil'' and ''[[Black Terror]]''.

== RZG Comics ==
The Arrow has an appearance in the RZG comic book series ''Phazer''. The issue also includes [[Daredevil (Lev Gleason Publications)]].

==References==
{{Reflist}}

==External links==
* {{comicbookdb|character|13781|The Arrow}}
* [http://www.internationalhero.co.uk/a/arrow.htm The Arrow] at the International Catalogue of Superheroes
* [https://web.archive.org/web/20061213003702/http://www.anerispress.com/ena/arrow.html Eye-n-Apple's Golden Age Gallery entry on the Arrow]
* [http://ratmmjess.tripod.com/gold/page.html Golden Age Super Heroes Directory] by [[Jess Nevins]]
* [http://toonopedia.com/arrow.htm The Arrow] at [[Don Markstein's Toonopedia]]. [https://archive.today/20240525205609/https://www.webcitation.org/66jlzObRs?url=http://toonopedia.com/arrow.htm Archived] from the original on April 6, 2012.

{{GoldenAge}}
{{Avengers characters}}

[[Category:Comics characters introduced in 1938]]
[[Category:1940 comics debuts]]
[[Category:AC Comics titles]]
[[Category:Centaur Publications titles]]
[[Category:Centaur Publications characters]]
[[Category:Dynamite Entertainment characters]]
[[Category:Fictional archers]]
[[Category:Fictional soldiers]]
[[Category:Golden Age superheroes]]
[[Category:Malibu Comics titles]]
[[Category:Protectors characters]]
[[Category:Public domain comics]]

Airman (character)

2025-05-13T22:57:07Z

141.136.167.114:

{{Infobox comics character
| image = KeenDetectiveFunnies23.jpg
| caption = ''Keen Detective Funnies'' #23 (Aug. 1940). Cover art generally credited to [[Harry Sahle]] (unconfirmed).
| character_name = Airman
| publisher = [[Centaur Publications]] [[Malibu Comics]]
| debut = ''Keen Detective Funnies'' #23 (August 1940)
| creators = [[George Kapitan]] (script; unconfirmed) [[Harry Sahle]] (art)
| alter_ego = Drake Stevens
| full_name =
| species = 
| homeworld = 
| alliances = The Protectors (Malibu Comics)
| aliases = 
| supports = 
| powers = Suit gives the ability to fly
}}
'''Airman''' (originally '''Air Man''') is a fictional, [[comic-book]] [[superhero]] first published by [[Centaur Publications]] in 1940, during the period fans and historians call the [[Golden Age of Comic Books]]. He first appeared in ''Keen Detective Funnies #23'' (Aug. 1940), in a story by artist [[Harry Sahle]] and an unconfirmed writer, generally credited as [[George Kapitan]].<ref name=Mougin>{{cite book |last1=Mougin |first1=Lou |title=Secondary Superheroes of Golden Age Comics |date=2020 |publisher=McFarland & Co |isbn=9781476638607|page=18}}</ref> ''Keen Detective Funnies'' was cancelled after issue #24, but Centaur published two more stories in ''Detective Eye Comics'' #1 and 2 (Nov-Dec 1940) before pulling the plug on the character.<ref>{{cite book |last1=Benton |first1=Mike |title=Superhero Comics of the Golden Age: The Illustrated History |date=1992 |publisher=Taylor Publishing Company |location=Dallas |isbn=0-87833-808-X |url=https://archive.org/details/superherocomicso0000bent/page/168 |access-date=8 April 2020 |pages=160, 168}}</ref>

After [[Centaur Publications]] went out of business, Airman lapsed into the [[public domain]]. In the early 1990s, he was revived by [[Malibu Comics]] as a character in the series ''[[Protectors (comics)|Protectors]]'', and starred in a namesake, [[one-shot (comics)|one-shot]] spin-off.

An Airman story from ''Keen Detective Funnies'' #24 has been reprinted in ''Men of Mystery Comics'' #63 by [[AC Comics]].

== Centaur Comics ==
The original Air Man is Drake Stevens, son of Claude Stevens, a renowned [[ornithologist]]. When his father is senselessly murdered, the police are unable to bring the killer to justice. Outraged, Drake puts together a costume consisting of a pair of gas-filled wings and a jet-pack, establishing the crime-fighting identity of Airman. He also utilizes guns and bombs in his quest for justice.<ref>{{cite web |last1=Markstein |first1=Don |title=Air Man |url=http://www.toonopedia.com/airman.htm |website=Don Markstein's Toonopedia |access-date=1 April 2020}}</ref> In one story, he fights pirates aboard a "Ghost Ship".<ref>{{cite book |last1=Nevins |first1=Jess |title=Encyclopedia of Golden Age Superheroes |date=2013 |publisher=High Rock Press |isbn=978-1-61318-023-5 |page=6}}</ref>

== Malibu Comics ==
[[Image:AirmanMalibuComics.jpg|thumb|left|Malibu Comics' version: ''Airman'' #1 (Jan. 1993), cover art by Thomas Derenick.]]
The new version of Airman debuted in contemporary times. His origin is nearly identical to the original incarnation, except in this version, his father is named Edward and the murderer is revealed to be a supervillain named Captain Klegg. His suit is also different from the original. In addition to a jet pack and the wings on the old suit, the new suit boasts motorized talons in the boots and gloves, as well as a utility belt and a specially designed cowl that gives him telescopic vision.

In the Protectors universe, the heroes have gone into hiding following a disastrous battle at the town of Brinkston. They are drawn together to face Mr. Monday, and the Protectors are formed.

While on the team, Drake is often insecure because of his relative inexperience. He is a friend and an ally of '''Thresher''', the son of [[Neptune (mythology)|Neptune]] and a [[mermaid]]. He rescues the hero in the pages of his own series from the clutches of the Conqueror, a supervillain minion of major Protectors foe the Great Question.

== Dynamite Entertainment ==
In 2008, the character was brought back by [[Dynamite Entertainment]] as part of their ''[[Project Superpowers]]'' storyline. This version of the character matches the original Golden Age version, but is brought from the World War II–era into modern times as part of the storyline.

==Footnotes==
{{reflist}}

==References==
* [http://ratmmjess.tripod.com/gold/page.html Jess Nevins' Golden Age Directory]
* [http://www.internationalhero.co.uk/a/airman.htm Modern-day Airman entry at International Encyclopedia of Superheroes]
* [http://toonopedia.com/airman.htm Air Man] at [[Don Markstein's Toonopedia]]. [https://archive.today/20240525192257/https://www.webcitation.org/66C0CHBsy?url=http://toonopedia.com/airman.htm Archived] from the original on March 15, 2012.

{{GoldenAge}}
{{Avengers characters}}

{{DEFAULTSORT:Airman (Comics)}}
[[Category:Centaur Publications titles]]
[[Category:Centaur Publications characters]]
[[Category:AC Comics titles]]
[[Category:Malibu Comics titles]]
[[Category:Protectors characters]]
[[Category:Golden Age superheroes]]
[[Category:Aviation comics]]
[[Category:1940 comics debuts]]
[[Category:Comics characters introduced in 1940]]
[[Category:Public domain comics]]

The Deadly Hands of Kung Fu

2025-05-13T22:33:19Z

141.136.167.114:

{{Short description|American black-and-white martial arts comics magazine}}
{{Use mdy dates|date=March 2025}}
{{Infobox magazine
|title = The Deadly Hands of Kung Fu
|image_file = Deadly hands of kung fu 1975.jpg
|image_size = 250px
|caption = ''The Deadly Hands of Kung Fu'' #17 (Oct. 1975), painted cover art by [[Neal Adams]].
|editor = Various
|frequency = Monthly
|category = [[Martial arts]] comics
|company = [[Magazine Management]]
|founded = 1974
|finaldate = 1977
|finalnumber = 33
|country = [[United States]]
|website =
}}
'''''The Deadly Hands of Kung Fu''''' is an American black-and-white [[martial arts]] comics magazine published by [[List of comics magazines published by Magazine Management in the 1970s|Magazine Management]], a corporate sibling of [[Marvel Comics]]. A total of 33 issues were published from 1974 to 1977, plus one special edition. Additionally, a color Marvel comic titled simply ''Deadly Hands of Kung Fu'' was published as a 2014 miniseries.

==Publishing history==
''The Deadly Hands of Kung Fu'' was published in the mid-to-late 1970s by [[Magazine Management]], a corporate sibling of [[Marvel Comics]], amid the [[martial arts]] movie fad of the time. Launched in 1974 as part of Magazine Management's [[List of comics magazines published by Magazine Management in the 1970s|line of black-and-white comics magazines]], it ran 33 issues through 1977.<ref name=gcd>[https://www.comics.org/series/2161/ ''The Deadly Hands of Kung Fu''] at the [[Grand Comics Database]].</ref> Recurring characters included:
* The [[Sons of the Tiger]]: Three men and one woman linked by mystical amulets.
* The [[White Tiger (Hector Ayala)|White Tiger]]: Heir to the amulets of the Sons of the Tiger.
* [[Shang Chi, Master of Kung Fu]] (from Marvel Comics), incorporating characters and concepts licensed from the [[Sax Rohmer]] estate.
* [[Iron Fist (character)|Iron Fist]] the Living Weapon (from Marvel Comics)
* The [[Daughters of the Dragon]]: [[Colleen Wing]] and [[Misty Knight]] (characters derived from Marvel Comics' ''Iron Fist'' series).

Each issue had comics stories featuring these characters, both single-issue stories and multi-issue story arcs. Most issues also included a review of a recent martial arts film. Other issues had interviews with martial arts instructors, while others had interviews with film or television celebrities related to martial arts.

Early issues had a martial arts instructional section which described some elementary fighting techniques. These were provided by comics illustrator/martial artist [[Frank McLaughlin (artist)|Frank McLaughlin]]. The magazine was in [[black-and-white]] except for the cover. The cost of the magazine was 75 cents for issues #1–14. Issue #15 was a ''Super Annual'' (all reprints) issue and cost $1.25. Issues #16–33 were $1.00, as well as the 1974 ''Kung Fu Special'' (summer 1974); cover-titled ''Special Album Edition: The Deadly Hands of Kung Fu''.<ref>[https://www.comics.org/issue/27558/ ''Kung Fu Special''] at the Grand Comics Database.</ref> Issue #28 (Sept. 1976) was an all-[[Bruce Lee]] special, including a 35-page comic book format biography written by [[Martin Sands]], and drawn by [[Joe Staton]] and [[Tony DeZuniga]].

Some stories were set in feudal Japan and starring [[samurai]]-type characters, including a four-part story arc called "Sword Quest", illustrated by [[Sanho Kim]] (first [[manhwa]] artist working to be published regularly in the United States)<ref name="Comiclopedia">{{Cite web |title=Kim San-ho |url=https://www.lambiek.net/artists/k/kim_san-ho.htm |access-date=2023-07-30 |website=lambiek.net |language=en}}</ref> and Tony DeZuniga. The Sons of the Tiger/White Tiger feature ran until the penultimate issue.<ref name=gcd />

In 2009, the [[black and white]] one-shot ''Shang-Chi: Master of Kung'' Fu was released, with stories written by [[Jonathan Hickman]], [[Mike Benson (screenwriter)|Mike Benson]], [[Charlie Huston]] and [[Robin Furth]] and illustrated by [[Tomm Coker]], C.P. Smith, [[Enrique Badía Romero|Enrique Romero]] and Paul Gulacy.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Schedeen |first=Jesse |date=2009-10-01 |title=Shang-Chi: Master of Kung Fu #1 Review |url=https://www.ign.com/articles/2009/10/01/shang-chi-master-of-kung-fu-1-review |access-date=2022-04-25 |website=IGN |language=en}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |title=SHANG-CHI MASTER OF KUNG-FU BLACK & WHITE ONE-SHOT (JUL090539) |url=https://www.previewsworld.com/Catalog/JUL090539 |access-date=2022-04-25 |website=www.previewsworld.com |language=en}}</ref>

In 2014, the miniseries ''Deadly Hands of Kung Fu'' was released, written by [[Mike Benson (screenwriter)|Mike Benson]] and illustrated by [[Tan Eng Huat]].<ref>{{Cite web |last=McMillan |first=Graeme |date=2014-02-11 |title=Marvel Returns to Roots for New 'Deadly Hands of Kung-Fu' Series |url=https://www.hollywoodreporter.com/news/general-news/marvel-returns-roots-new-deadly-679431/ |access-date=2023-07-30 |website=The Hollywood Reporter |language=en-US}}</ref>

In 2023, Shang-Chi appeared in a ''Deadly Hands of Kung Fu'' revival titled ''Deadly Hands of Kung Fu: Gang War'', a three issue miniseries written by [[Greg Pak]] and illustrated by Caio Majado, which is part of the "[[Gang War (comics)|Gang War]]" crossover event.<ref>{{Cite web |date=July 22, 2023 |title=SDCC 2023: Marvel Announces Its Next Major Crossover Event—Gang War |url=https://www.marvel.com/articles/comics/sdcc-2023-first-look-at-gang-war-new-major-crossover-event-from-marvel-comics-this-november |access-date=July 23, 2023 |website=Marvel |language=en-US}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |last=Brooke |first=David |date=2023-09-11 |title=EXCLUSIVE Marvel First Look: David Aja's 'Deadly Hands of Kung Fu' #1 cover • AIPT |url=https://aiptcomics.com/2023/09/11/david-ajas-deadly-hands-of-kung-fu-1-cover/ |access-date=2023-09-19 |website=aiptcomics.com |language=en-us}}</ref>

==Editors==
Source:<ref name=gcd />
* [[Roy Thomas]]: #1, 2
* [[Tony Isabella]]: #3–6 and ''Special Album Edition''
* [[David Anthony Kraft]]: #9, 10 (co-edited with Don McGregor)
* [[Don McGregor]]: #7, 8, 10 (co-edited with David Anthony Kraft), 11, 16, 17
* [[Archie Goodwin (comics)|Archie Goodwin]]: #12–15, 18–25
* [[John Warner (comics)|John Warner]]: #26–33

==''The Deadliest Heroes of Kung Fu''==
Magazine Management also published one issue of an offshoot magazine, ''The Deadliest Heroes of Kung Fu'', in 1975.<ref>[https://www.comics.org/series/74008/ ''The Deadliest Heroes of Kung Fu''] at the Grand Comics Database.</ref> It contained no comics elements, but featured a lengthy article reprinted from ''Deadly Hands'' as well as instructional features by [[Frank McLaughlin (artist)|Frank McLaughlin]]. Editor [[John Warner (comics)|John Warner]] explained that ''The Deadliest Heroes of Kung Fu'' was a trial balloon for an all-articles companion to ''Deadly Hands''.<ref>{{cite journal|author=John Warner|title =Editorial|journal=Deadliest Heroes of Kung Fu|issue=#1|page =2|publisher= Magazine Management Company|date =June 1975}}</ref>

== Collected editions ==
* ''The Deadly Hands of Kung Fu [[Marvel Omnibus|Omnibus]]'' Vol. 1 collects ''The Deadly Hands of Kung Fu'' #1-18, ''The Deadly Hands of Kung Fu Special Album Edition'', and ''The Deadliest Heroes of Kung Fu'', 1,152 pages, November 15, 2016, {{ISBN|978-1302901332}}
* ''The Deadly Hands of Kung Fu Omnibus'' Vol. 2 collects ''The Deadly Hands of Kung Fu'' #19-33 and material from ''[[Bizarre Adventures]]'' #25, 1,000 pages, June 20, 2017, {{ISBN|1302901346}}

==References==
{{Reflist}}


{{Iron Fist}}
{{Shang-Chi}}

{{DEFAULTSORT:Deadly Hands of Kung Fu, The}}
[[Category:1974 comics debuts]]
[[Category:Action-adventure comics]]
[[Category:Comics magazines published in the United States]]
[[Category:Monthly magazines published in the United States]]
[[Category:Comics by Don McGregor]]
[[Category:Comics by George Pérez]]
[[Category:Comics by Gerry Conway]]
[[Category:Comics by Steve Englehart]]
[[Category:Defunct American comics]]
[[Category:Defunct magazines published in the United States]]
[[Category:Magazines established in 1974]]
[[Category:Magazines disestablished in 1977]]
[[Category:Marvel Comics titles]]
[[Category:Martial arts magazines]]
[[Category:Shang-Chi titles]]
[[Category:Martial arts comics]]

Roachmill

2025-05-13T20:15:49Z

141.136.167.114:

{{Use mdy dates|date=November 2011}}
{{Infobox comic book title
| image = Roachmill.jpg
| caption = Cover to ''Roachmill'' No. 1 (December 1986).
| schedule = Bimonthly
| format = Standard
| publisher = [[Blackthorne Publishing]] [[Dark Horse Comics]]
| date = December 1986 – December 1990
| issues = 16
| main_char_team = Roachmill
| writers = Rich Hedden Tom McWeeney
| artists = Rich Hedden Tom McWeeney
| pencillers =
| inkers =
| colorists =
| creative_team_month =
| creative_team_year =
| creators =
}}
'''''Roachmill''''' is an American [[comic book]] created by Rich Hedden and Tom McWeeney, published first by [[Blackthorne Publishing]] and then by [[Dark Horse Comics]].

==Publication history==
[[Blackthorne Publishing]] put out the first six issues of ''Roachmill'' before creators Hedden and McWeeney were lured away by [[Dark Horse Comics]]. Dark Horse published an additional ten issues before the series was canceled. Dark Horse also published a special introductory Roachmill story in ''[[Dark Horse Presents]]'' No. 17 (April 1988), to announce the acquisition of the character. Additional Roachmill stories have been published in ''Dark Horse Presents'' issues No. 28 (March 1989), 139 (January 1999) and the ''Dark Horse Presents Fifth Anniversary Special'' (April 1991).

Solo stories featuring Roachmill's rival Zoo-Lou have been published in ''[[Grimjack|Munden's Bar]] Annual'' No. 2 (published in March 1991, by [[First Comics]]) and in ''Dark Horse Presents'' No. 67 (November 1992). Roachmill and Zoo-Lou also made cameos in ''[[San Diego Comic-Con]] Comics'' No. 1 (August 1992).

Two trade paperback collections were issued. The first, ''Roachmill Book 1: Framed'' (1988), collects the first four issues. The second, ''Roachmill Book 2: The Greatest Roachmill Stories Ever Told'' (1989), features the final two Blackthorne issues, and the Roachmill stories from Dark Horse Presents issues No. 17 and 28. Both books were published by Dark Horse.

==Series overview==
The comic is set in 30th-century New York where an influx of aliens to Earth has caused social problems. In response, the ''Extermination Act'' is enacted, a law that allows anyone who carries a gun to use lethal force in "alien-related" situation. Eventually, the law is extended to allow the killings of humans as well, allowing for the creation of licensed Exterminators. Roachmill – a tall [[Dirty Harry]]-era [[Clint Eastwood]] lookalike with two extra [[cockroach]] arms extending from his abdomen – is one such Exterminator, willing – for a price – to kill anyone or anything. The stories veered wildly between comedy, satire and serious sci-fi and the art between cartoony and realistic, sometimes in the same issue.

==External links==
* [http://www.internationalhero.co.uk/r/roachmil.htm ''Roachmill'' at International Heroes]
* [http://www.atomicavenue.com/atomic/TitleDetail.aspx?TitleID=7794 ''Roachmill'' publication history with Blackthorne at Atomic Avenue]
* [http://www.atomicavenue.com/atomic/TitleDetail.aspx?TitleID=835 ''Roachmill'' publication history with Dark Horse at Atomic Avenue]

[[Category:Blackthorne Publishing titles]]
[[Category:Comics characters introduced in 1986]]
[[Category:Dark Horse Comics titles]]

{{DarkHorse-Comics-stub}}

NOW Comics

2025-05-13T18:26:07Z

141.136.167.114:

{{short description|Comic book publisher}}
{{more footnotes|date = July 2011}}
{{Use American English|date=January 2023}}
{{Use mdy dates|date=January 2023}}
{{Infobox company
| name = NOW Comics
| logo =
| foundation = 1985
| founder = [[Tony C. Caputo]]
| location_city = [[Chicago, Illinois]]
| location_country = U.S.
| location =
| locations =
| area_served =
| key_people =
| industry = [[Comics]]
| products =
| services =
| market cap =
| revenue =
| operating_income =
| net_income =
| assets =
| equity =
| owner =
| num_employees =
| parent = Caputo Publishing, Inc.
| divisions = NOW Library, NOW Video
| subsid =
| homepage = {{official website|https://web.archive.org/web/20040615033941/http://www.nowcomics.com/}}
| footnotes =
| intl =
| defunct = 2006
}}
'''NOW Comics''' was a [[comic book]] publisher founded in late 1985 by [[Tony C. Caputo]] as a sole-proprietorship. During the four years after its founding, NOW grew from a one-man operation to operating in 12 countries, and published almost 1,000 comic books.

The company was headquartered in the [[Chicago Loop]] in [[Chicago]], [[Illinois]].<ref>Katz, William A. and Linda Sternberg Katz. ''Magazines for Young People: A "Children's Magazine Guide" Companion''. Bowker, 1991. Second edition. [https://books.google.com/books?id=oHvgAAAAMAAJ&q=%22NOW+Comics%22+Chicago,+IL 103]. Retrieved on January 6, 2011. "Now Comics, 332 S. Michigan Ave., Suite 1750, Chicago, IL 60604"</ref> Most NOW titles were the results of licensing arrangements with such companies as [[Columbia Pictures|Columbia (Sony) Pictures]], [[Broadway Video]], [[ELP Communications]], [[CBS|CBS Entertainment, Inc.]], [[Speed Racer|Speed Racer Enterprises]], and [[Leisure Concepts]], resulting in titles like ''Vector'', ''[[Mr. T (comics)|Mr. T & The T-Force]]'',<ref>"Hey Fool! It's T-Time!", ''The Comics Journal'' #157 (March 1993), p. 35.</ref> ''[[Speed Racer#Comic adaptations|Speed Racer]]'', ''[[Astro Boy (NOW Comics)|The Original Astro Boy]]'', ''Alias'', ''[[Terminator: The Burning Earth]]'', ''[[The Real Ghostbusters (comics)|The Real Ghostbusters]]'' and ''[[Ghostbusters II#Comic book adaptation|Ghostbusters II]]'', ''[[Fright Night (comic line)|Fright Night]]'', ''[[Married... with Children#Comic books|Married... with Children]]'', and ''[[Green Hornet (comics)|The Green Hornet]]''.

==History==
NOW Comics started in late 1985 as a sole-proprietorship, with the first publications shipping in May 1986. It became '''Caputo Publishing, Inc.''' in 1987.

In a four-year period, CPI grew from a one-man operation with annual sales of $110,000 to an international multimillion-dollar corporation, with close to 100 full-time employees and freelancers, and the #3 position in comic book market share.<ref>''Internal Correspondence'' (Capital City Distribution, May 1990): chart shows NOW with #3 market share (about 3%) after [[Marvel Comics]] (45%) and [[DC Comics]] (25%).</ref> During this period, CPI created such cross-promotional ventures as ''The Real Ghostbusters'' cereal (with [[Ralston Purina]]) and Slimer's Ecto-Cooler Hi-C drink (with [[Coca-Cola|Coca-Cola Foods]]).

In 1989, the comics division began to lose steam, suffering from lack of focus and internal dissension.<ref>"Editorial Direction Lacking at NOW", ''[[The Comics Journal]]'' #127 (February 1989), p. 9.</ref><ref>"Creators Accuse NOW of Non-Payment", ''[[The Comics Journal]]'' #127 (February 1989), p. 5-15.</ref> In 1990, NOW was forced to file Chapter 7 bankruptcy by [[Quebecor Printing]] and the [[General Learning Corporation]].<ref>"It's So Long For Now: Caputo Files for Bankruptcy Liquidation", ''[[The Comics Journal]]'' #140 (February 1991), pp. 11-12.</ref> After being bought by General Learning, NOW Comics relaunched in 1991 as the '''NOW Entertainment Corporation'''<ref>"Newswatch: Comics Companies Reborn in Chicago", ''[[The Comics Journal]]'' #142 (June 1991), pp. 9–10.</ref> This new infusion of over $2 million in capital catapulted the company to number five in market share within its first quarter of business, and NOW Entertainment was nominated as best new publisher of 1991.{{Citation needed|date=November 2009}}

In 1993, NOW and [[Malibu Comics|Malibu]]/[[Eternity Comics|Eternity]] co-published the [[Crossover (fiction)|crossover]] series ''[[Ninja High School]] featuring [[Speed Racer]]''.<ref>{{cite web|title=Ninja High School featuring Speed Racer: Malibu, 1993 Series|publisher=|url=https://www.comics.org/series/15727/|website=Grand Comics Database|quote=Indicia publisher: Malibu Comics Entertainment, Inc.; cover has both Eternity & NOW Comics logos.}}</ref>

In 1994, the company ceased publishing after its "January 1995" releases, six months after founder Caputo left.{{Citation needed|date=August 2008}}

In 2003, Caputo returned, reviving the publisher as '''NOW Media Group, Inc.''' The new company, dubbed "NOW Comics 3.0" by Caputo, was re-launched as a graphic novel "self-publisher", giving creators a partnership role in the business. Books published by this iteration of NOW Comics included ''Vespers'' (an original graphic novel written and illustrated by Caputo), ''Vinny, the Bug Man'' (a 3D animated graphic novel by Chet Spiewak, including a CD-ROM), and black and white collected editions of Marc Hansen's ''Ralph Snart'', ''Doctor Gorpon'', and ''Weird Melvin'' series. Planned but unreleased were ''Mirrorwalker'' (collecting the originally intended two issues of the Barry Daniel Peterson and [[Marv Wolfman]] 1990 series) and ''Syphons'' (collecting volume two of the series), which was later published by [[Image Comics]]. The business plan didn't pan out and the company folded in 2005, with the corporation fully dissolved in February 2006.

==NOW Video==
In 1988, CPI purchased to rights to release the original ''[[Speed_Racer#Anime|Speed Racer]]'' anime on home video, eventually releasing 22 volumes of ''Speed Racer'' on VHS under the banner "NOW Video". In addition, there were two special gift sets: the ''Speed Racer Collector's Edition'' (1989), which included a 90-minute VHS copy of the three-part episode "[[List_of_Speed_Racer_episodes|The Most Dangerous Race]]", a ''Speed Racer'' bumper sticker, a ''Slimer!'' Hi-C [[Hi-C#Ecto_Cooler| Ecto Cooler]] coupon, and copies of ''Speed Racer Special'' #1, ''Speed Racer Classics'' v1 & v2, and ''Now What?!'' #4; and the ''Speed Racer Silver Anniversary Edition'' (1992), which included a 55-minute VHS copy of the two-part episode "Challenge of the Masked Racer" as well as copies of ''Speed Racer Classics'' v2, and the "Speed Racer 5th Anniversary Collector's Edition" of ''Speed Racer'' v2 #1.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.nowcomics.com/now/gift.html |date=2006 |title=Speed Racer Gift Sets |author=Staff writer |website=NOW Comics |publisher=NOW Media Group |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20061123225743/http://www.nowcomics.com/now/gift.html |archive-date=November 23, 2006 |url-status=dead}}</ref> In 1989, City Video Productions and NOW Comics co-produced ''The What NOW Caper'', a sixty-minute comedy-documentary on comic book production starring Jim Vincent as detective "Mel Mudd".<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.nowcomics.com/now/whatnow.html |date=2006 |title=The What NOW Caper |author=Staff writer |website=NOW Comics |publisher=NOW Media Group |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20061123225809/http://www.nowcomics.com/now/whatnow.html |archive-date=November 23, 2006}}</ref>

== Creators associated with NOW Comics ==
During its operation, NOW acquired the talents of such industry veterans as [[Harlan Ellison]], [[Neal Adams]], [[Jim Steranko]], [[Bill Sienkiewicz]], [[Mike Baron]], [[Jeff Butler]], [[Dave Dorman]], and [[Chuck Dixon]]. [[Alex Ross]] did his first professional comics work with the company (in ''[[Terminator: The Burning Earth]]''), and [[Clint McElroy]] wrote several comics with NOW in the early 1990s.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.hollywoodreporter.com/heat-vision/adventure-zone-mcelroy-family-explains-new-graphic-novel-1127134|title = How 'The Adventure Zone' Went from 'D&D' Podcast to Graphic Novel|website = [[The Hollywood Reporter]]|date = July 16, 2018}}</ref> NOW also collaborated with entertainers like [[Mr. T]], [[Van Williams]], and [[Terry Gilliam]].

==Titles==
* ''[[The Adventures of Baron Munchausen#Comic book adaption|The Adventures of Baron Munchausen]]'' (1989), #1–4
* ''[[3 Ninjas Kick Back]]'' (1994), #1
* ''A Boy and His 'Bot'' (1987), #1
* ''Alias'' (1990), #1–5
* ''Bats, Cats, & Cadillacs'' (1990), #1–2
* ''Dai Kamikaze!'' (1987–1988), #1–12
* ''Doctor Gorpon'' (2004), B&W, collects ''Doctor Gorpon'' (1991), #1–3 from [[Eternity Comics|Eternity]].
* ''Eb'nn'' (June 1986 – January 1987), #3–6 [from #1–2 (1985–1986) published by Crowquill Comics]<ref name="Sassienie1994">{{cite book|last=Sassienie|first=Paul|title=The Comic Book: The One Essential Guide for Comic Book Fans Everywhere|url=https://books.google.com/books?id=unVlAAAAMAAJ|year=1994|publisher=Chartwell Books, Incorporated|isbn=978-1-55521-999-4|page=233}}</ref>
* ''FanGraphiX'' (1984–1986), #1–4 [as Tony Caputo Publishing]
* ''[[Freejack]]'' (1992), #1–3
* ''Fright Night Part II'' (1988), [[Trade paperback (comics)|TPB]] adapting the ''[[Fright Night Part 2]]'' film
* ''[[Fright Night (comic series)|Fright Night]]''
** v1 (1988–1990), #1–22
** 3-D Special (1992)
** 3-D Fall Special (1992)
** Halloween Annual (1993)
** 3-D Winter Special (1993)
* ''[[Ghostbusters II#Comic book adaptation|Ghostbusters II]]'' (1989), #1–3
* ''Graves Inc. Derides Again'' (1988), collects [[Pat Brady (cartoonist)|Graves Inc.]] newspaper strips [as Caputo Publishing/NOW Library]
* ''[[Green Hornet (comics)|The Green Hornet]]''
** v1 (1989–1990), #1–14
** v2 (1991–1995), #1–40
** Tales of, v1 (1990), #1–2
** Tales of, v2 (1992), #1–4
** Tales of, v3 (1992), #1–3
** Sting of (1992), #1–4
** 1992 Annual (1992), #1
** 1994 Annual (1994), #1
** Solitary Sentinel (1992–1993) #1–3
** Dark Tomorrow (1993), #1–3
* ''[[Kato (The Green Hornet)|Kato]]''
** v1 (1991), #1–4 (indicia reads ''Kato of the Green Hornet'', v1)
** v2 (1992), #1–2 (indicia reads ''Kato of the Green Hornet II'', v1)
* ''[[Little Monsters (1989 film)|Little Monsters]]'' (1990), #1–4
* ''[[Married... with Children#Comic books|Married... with Children]]''
** v1 (1991), #1–7
** v2 (1991–1992), #1–7
** Collector's Special (1992), #1
** Kelly Bundy Special (1992), #1–3
** Flashback (1993), #1–3
** 3-D Special (1993), #1
** Off Broadway (1993), #1
** 2099 (1993), #1–3
** Quantum Quartet (1993–1994), #1–4 (#3 & 4 are combined as a flip-book)
** 1994 Annual (1994), #1
** Buck's Tale (1994), #1
** Bud Bundy, Fanboy in Paradise (1994), #1
** Kelly Goes to Kollege (1994), #1–3
** Lotto Fever! (1995), #1 (#2 & 3 were never released)
* ''MirrorWalker'' (1990), #1 (#2 unpublished)
* ''Mr. Lizard''
** Color Special (1993), #1 (with "Instant Ralph Snart" capsule)
** 3-D Special (1993), #1 (with "Instant Mr. Lizard" capsule)
* ''[[Mr. T (comics)|Mr. T & The T-Force]]'' (1993–1994), #1–10
* ''NOW What?!'' (1989), #1–13 (NOW Comics news magazine)
* ''Prime Slime Tales'' (), #3–4 [from [[Mirage Comics]]]
* ''[[Astro Boy (NOW Comics)|The Original Astro Boy]]'' (September 1987 – June 1989)
* ''[[Racer X (character)|Racer X]]''
** v1 (1988–1989), #1–11
** v2 (1989–1990), #1–10
* ''[[Ralph Snart Adventures]]''
** v1 (1986), #1–3
** v2 (1986–1987), #1–9
** v3 (1988–1990), #1–26
** v4 (1992), #1–3
** 3-D Special (1992)
** v5 (1993), #1–4
** The Lost Issues (1993), #1–3
** Comic Collection #1 (2003), B&W, collects v1 #1–3 & v3 #1–16
** Comic Collection #2 (2004), B&W, collects v3 #17–23, v4 #1–3, & v5 #1–5
* ''[[The Real Ghostbusters (comics)|The Real Ghostbusters]]''
** v1 (1988–1990), #1–27
** v2 (1991–1992), #1–4
** Spectacular 3-D Special (1991)
** Annual (1992)
** 3-D Annual (1993)
** 3-D Slimer Special (1993)
* ''[[Rust (comics)|Rust]]'' (1989)
** v1 (1987–1988), #1–13
** v2 (1989), #1–7
* ''Silverwing'' (1987), #1, collects the back-up feature from ''Eb'nn'' #2–3
* ''[[The Real Ghostbusters (comics)#Slimer|Slimer!]]''
** v1 (1989-1990), #1–19
** The Big Comic Book (1991), collects ''Slimer!'' #1–3
* ''[[Speed Racer#American comic adaptations|Speed Racer]]''
** v1 (1987–1990), #1–38
** Mach V Special (1988), #1
** Classics v1 (1988), collects selected chapters of the original ''Mach GoGoGo'' manga [as Caputo Publishing/NOW Library] (225 pages)
** Classics v2 (1989), collects selected chapters of the original ''Mach GoGoGo'' manga (100 pages)
** v2 (1992), #1–3
** featuring ''[[Ninja High School]]'' (1993), #1–2 — co-published with [[Malibu Comics|Malibu]]/[[Eternity Comics|Eternity]]
** The New Adventures of (1993–1994), #0–5
** Return of the GRX (1994), #1–2
* ''Supercops'' (1990–1991), #1–4
* ''Syphons''
** v1 (1986–1987), #1–7
** v2 (1994), #1–3, collected as ''Syphons'' (2004) by [[Image Comics]]
** v3 The Sygate Strategem (1994–1995), #1–3
* ''[[List_of_Terminator_comics#The_Terminator_(1988–1990)|The Terminator]]'' (1988–1990), #1–17
* ''Terminator: All My Futures Past'' (1990), #1–2
* ''[[Terminator: The Burning Earth]]'' (1990), #1–5; collected as ''Terminator: The Burning Earth'' (1990) [as Caputo Publishing/NOW Library]
* ''[[The Twilight Zone#Comic books|The Twilight Zone]]''
** v1 (1990), #1 [reprinted as ''Twilight Zone Premiere'' (1991)]
** v2 (1991–1992), #1–11 (#1 was a separate issue from ''Twilight Zone Premiere'')
** v3 (1993), #1–4
** Annual (1993), #1
** 3-D Special (1993), #1
* ''[[Universal Soldier (series)#Comic Books|Universal Soldier]]'' (1992), #1–3
* ''Valor Thunderstar and His Fireflies'' (1986), #1
* ''Vector'' (1986), #1–4
* ''Vespers'' (2004), [[Trade paperback (comics)|TPB]]
* ''Vinny, the Bug Man'' (2004), [[Trade paperback (comics)|TPB]] (includes [[CD-ROM]])
* ''Weird Melvin''
** The Comic Book Collection (2004), B&W, collects ''Weird Melvin'' #1–5 (1995) from Marc Hansen Stuff
** The Comic Strip Collection (2004), B&W, collects strips from the ''[[Comics Buyer's Guide]]'' (B&W)

== Notes ==
{{reflist}}

==References==
{{refbegin}}
* {{gcdb publisher|id=527|title=NOW Comics}}
* {{comicbookdb|type=publisher|id=161|title=NOW Comics}}
* [http://www.comics-db.com/Other_Publishers/N/Now_Comics/index.html NOW Comics] at the [[Big Comic Book DataBase]]
{{refend}}

==External links==
{{Portal|Chicago|Illinois|Companies|Comics}}
* {{official website|http://www.nowcomics.com}}
* [https://web.archive.org/web/20030214042802/http://bugem.com/ Vinny, the Bug Man]

{{Comic book publishers in North America navbox}}
{{Authority control}}
{{DEFAULTSORT:Now Comics}}
[[Category:NOW Comics| ]]
[[Category:1985 establishments in the United States]]
[[Category:Comic book publishing companies of the United States]]
[[Category:Defunct comics and manga publishing companies]]
[[Category:Publishing companies established in 1985]]
[[Category:American companies established in 1985]]

Aircel Comics

2025-05-13T18:09:51Z

141.136.167.114:

{{short description|Defunct Canadian comic book publisher}}
{{Infobox company
| name = Aircel Comics
| logo = Aircel-logo.png
| foundation = {{Start date and age|1985}}
| defunct = {{End date and age|1994}}
| founder = [[Barry Blair]]
| key_people = [[Dave Cooper]] Patrick McEown Guang Yap
| location = [[Ottawa]], [[Ontario]], Canada (1985–1988) [[Los Angeles]], [[California]], U.S. (1988–1994)
| industry = [[Comics]]
| products = ''[[The Men in Black (comics)|The Men in Black]]''
| parent = [[Malibu Comics]]
| owner = [[Marvel Comics]]
}}
'''Aircel Comics''' ('''Aircel Publishing''') was a [[comic book]] publisher founded by [[Barry Blair]], in [[Ottawa]], [[Ontario]] in 1985. In 1988, it merged with American publisher [[Eternity Comics]], itself an imprint of [[Malibu Comics]], and in the late 1980s was taken over by Malibu before ceasing publication in 1994. It was best known as the original publisher of ''[[The Men in Black (comics)|The Men in Black]]'', a comic book which was later adapted into a [[Men in Black (franchise)|media franchise]].

Aircel blended historical and futuristic fantasy from different cultures as the underlying theme for most of its comic series. It featured high-quality colour covers with black-and white interiors. Canadian artists such as [[Dave Cooper]], [[Denis Beauvais]], and [[Dale Keown]] got their start at Aircel.<ref name="Munn" /> [[Charles de Lint]] also scripted several comic books for Aircel in the mid-1980s.

== Company history ==
Aircel was originally a manufacturer of foam insulation. When the government discontinued its contract with the company, employee Barry Blair convinced the owner to shift the company's focus to comic book publishing, which was experiencing a boom.<ref name="Munn">Munn, Bryan. [http://sequentialpulp.ca/barry-blair-1959-2010/ "Barry Blair, 1959-2010"], {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150109162159/http://sequentialpulp.ca/barry-blair-1959-2010/|date=2015-01-09}} Sequential: Canadian Comix News & Culture (Jan. 5, 2010).</ref> Blair ran the publishing operations, and Aircel's initial talent line-up included him, Dave Cooper, Patrick McEown, and Guang Yap.

Aircel released its first books in 1985: ''Samurai'', ''Dragonring'' and ''Elflord'', all of which featured line art in a style borrowed from [[manga]], which was fairly new to the North American market.<ref name="Munn" /> In 1986, illustrator [[Denis Beauvais]] and writer Gordon Derry collaborated with Blair to create ''Warlock 5'', which featured realistic mixed-media and airbrushing techniques. The ''Maelstrom'' series was released shortly thereafter.

In the late 1980s, the independent comics market contracted, hurting niche publishers such as Aircel.<ref name="Munn" /> Blair struck a deal with [[Scott Mitchell Rosenberg]] of [[Malibu Comics]] in which the larger publisher would be "lent" Aircel to publish a number of titles, in return for financial assistance. This resulted in a de facto merger with the Malibu imprint [[Eternity Comics]].<ref>"Eternity Merges with Aircel", ''The Comics Journal'' #125 (November 1, 1988), p. 19.</ref> New illustrators assumed responsibility for continuing some of the existing series (e.g. ''Elford'' vol. 2, ''Warlock 5'' vol. 2), which led to ownership disputes over some of these titles.<ref>"Eternity/Aircel Adventure", ''The Comics Journal'' #138 (October 1990), p. 19.</ref> Ultimately, Aircel terminated most of its previous titles and pursued erotic-themed comics with Malibu.

In 1990, Aircel published the series ''[[The Men in Black (comics)|The Men in Black]]'', by [[Lowell Cunningham]] and [[Sandy Carruthers]]. In 1992 the series was optioned by producers [[Walter F. Parkes]] and [[Laurie MacDonald]], who developed the idea into the film ''[[Men in Black (1997 film)|Men In Black]]'', which became the basis for a film and TV franchise.

In 1991, Aircel's debts were paid off, and Blair quit Aircel, formally handing the company over to Malibu.<ref>"Newswatch: Barry Blair Ends Malibu Contract, Starts Own Firm", ''The Comics Journal'' #144 (September 1991), p. 7.</ref> Aircel ceased publishing in 1994, when Malibu was purchased by [[Marvel Comics]].<ref>Reynolds, Eric. "The Rumors are True: Marvel Buys Malibu", ''The Comics Journal'' #173 (December 1994), pp. 29-33.</ref>

==Titles published==
{{col-start}}
{{col-break}}
* ''2000 Maniacs'' (1989), #1–3
* ''The Adventurers'' (1986), #1–2 [reprinted and continued as ''Adventurers'' #0–10 (1986–1987) from [[Malibu Comics#Publishers acquisitions and Genesis|Adventure Publications]]]
* ''Bloodlines'' (1987–1988), #1–7
* ''Blood 'N Guts'' (1990–1991), #1–3
* ''Body Count'' (1989–1990), #1–4
* ''Bodyguard'' (1990), #1–3
* ''Born To Kill'' (1990), #1–3
* ''Cat & Mouse'' (1990–1991), #1–18
* ''Chaser Platoon'' (1990), #1–6
* ''China Sea'' (1990), #1
* ''Darkewood'' (1987–1988), #1–5
* ''Dead Walkers'' (1991), #1–4
* ''Demon Hunter'' (1989), #1–4
* ''Dragonforce'' (1988–1990), #1–13
* ''Dragonforce Chronicles''
* ''Dragonring''
** v1 (1986), #1–6
** v2 (1986–1988), #1–15
* ''Dragons In The Moon'' (1990), #1–4
* ''Elflord''
** v1 (1986), #1–6 [collected in ''Elflord: The Black and White Chronicles'' (1987)]
** v2 (1986–1989), #1–31
** ''Elflord Chronicles'' (1990–1991), #1–8 [reprints ''Elflord'' material (1980–1981) from Nightwynd Productions]
* ''Fire Team'' (1990–1991), #1–6
* ''Full Throttle''
* ''Galaxina'' (1991–1992), #1–4
* ''Gauntlet'' (1992–1993), #1–8
* ''Greenhaven'' (1988), #1–3
* ''Greenlock'' (1991), #1
* ''Gun Fury'' (1988–1989), #1–10
* ''Gun Fury Returns'' (1990), #1–4
* ''Hardball'' (1991), #1–4
* ''Hardkorr'' (1991), #1–4
* ''Icarus'' (1986–1987), #1–6
* ''Inferno'' (1990–1991), #1–4
* ''Jake Thrash'' (1988), #1–2 [collected along with unpublished #3 in ''Jake Thrash: Book One'' (1989) from Malibu]
* ''Kiku San'' (1988–1989), #1–6
* ''Maelstrom'' (1988–1989), #1–11
* ''Mara of the Celts'' (1991), #1–4
* ''[[The Men in Black (comics)|The Men in Black]]''
** v1 (1990), #1–3
** v2 (1991), #1–3 (listed in indicia as ''Men in Black: Book II'')
* ''Mummy's Curse'' (1990), #1–4
* ''Mutant Zone'' (1991), #1–3
* ''Nocturne'' (1991), #1–3
* ''Pendragon'' (1991), #1–2
* ''Power'' (1991), #1–4
* ''Ripper'' (1989–1990), #1–6
* ''Scimidar Book VI: Slashdance'' (1992), #1–4 [from [[Eternity Comics|Eternity]]'s ''Scimidar Book V: Living Color'' (1991)]
* ''Samurai''
** v1 (1985–1987), #1–23
** v2 (1987–1988), #1–3
** v2 (1988–1989), #1–7
* ''Shadowalker'' (1988), #1
* ''Silverstorm'' (1990), # 1–3
* ''Southern Squadron'' (1990), #1–4 [from [[Cyclone!|Cyclone Comics]]' ''The Southern Squadron'' (1987–1989); continued in Eternity's ''The Southern Squadron: Freedom of Information Act'' (1992)]
* ''Stark: Future'' (1987–1989), #1–17
* ''Starstone'' (1987), #1–3
* ''The Tale of Mya Rom'' (1988), #1
* ''The Underground'' (1987), #1
* ''The Walking Dead''
** v1 (1989), #1–4 (
** ''The Walking Dead Zombie Special'' (1989), #1
* ''[[Warlock 5]]''
** v1 (1986–1989), #1–22
** v2 (1989), #1–7 ((cover titled ''Warlock 5: Book II'')
* ''Warlocks'' (1988), #1–12

=== Erotic titles ===
* ''Arthur Sex'' (1991), #1–8
* ''Carmilla'' (1991), #1–6
* ''Casanova'' (1991), #1–10
* ''Casanova in Venice'' (1991), #1
* ''Climaxxx'' (1991), #1–4
* ''CyberLust'' (1991), #1–3
* ''Debbie Does Comics'' (1992), #1–3
* ''[[Debbie Does Dallas]]'' (1991), #1–18
* ''Dirty Pictures'' (1991), #1–3
* ''Erotic Tales'' (1991), #1–3
* ''Erotique'' (1991), #1
* ''The Experience'' (1991), #1
* ''Final Taboo'' (1991), #1–2
* ''[[Flesh Gordon]]'' (1992), #1–4
* ''Hooters'' (1992), #1–6
* ''Jungle Love'' (1991), #1–3
* ''King Arthur Uncensored'' (1992), #1
* ''Leather & Lace''
** v1 (1989–1991), #1–25
** v2 ''Blood Sex & Tears'' (1991), #1–4
* ''Summer Special'' (1990), #1
* ''Lizard Lady'' (1991), #1–4
* ''Rated X''
** v1 (1991), #1–3
** ''Rated X Special'' (1991) #1
* ''Sapphire'' (1990), #1–9
* ''Scum Of The Earth'' (1991), #1–2
* ''Torment'' (1991), #1–3
* ''Triple-XXX'' (1992), #1–3
* ''Vampyre's Kiss''
** v1 ''Beware the Vampyre's Kiss'' (1990), #1–4
** v2 ''Bianca's Revenge'' (1990–1991), #1–4
** v2 ''The Dark Kiss of Night'' (1991), #1–4
* ''The Voyeur'' (1991), #1–4
{{col-end}}

==Notes==
{{Reflist}}

==References==
{{refbegin}}
* {{gcdb publisher|id=1237}}
* {{comicbookdb|type=publisher|id=189}}
{{refend}}

{{Marvel Comics}}
{{Comic book publishers in North America navbox}}
{{Canadian comics}}
{{Ultraverse}}

[[Category:Canadian companies established in 1985]]
[[Category:Canadian companies disestablished in 1994]]
[[Category:Comic book publishing companies of Canada]]
[[Category:Companies based in Ottawa]]
[[Category:Companies based in California]]
[[Category:Marvel Comics imprints]]
[[Category:Defunct comics and manga publishing companies]]
[[Category:Publishing companies established in 1985]]
[[Category:Publishing companies disestablished in 1994]]
[[Category:Malibu Comics]]
[[Category:1985 establishments in Ontario]]
[[Category:1994 disestablishments in Ontario]]
[[Category:1988 mergers and acquisitions]]

The Men in Black (comics)

2025-05-13T18:06:33Z

141.136.167.114:

{{short description|Comic book}}
{{Infobox comic book title 
|title = The Men in Black
|image = MIBseries1.jpg
|caption = ''The Men in Black'' #1 (Jan. 1990), cover art by Max S. Fellwalker.
|schedule = Monthly
|format = [[Limited series (comics)|Mini-series]] [[One-shot (comics)|One-shots]]
|publisher = [[Aircel Comics]] [[Malibu Comics]] (now owned by [[Marvel Comics]])
|date = Jan.–March 1990 May–July 1991
|issues = 6
|genre = [[Science fiction comics|Science fiction]]
|main_char_team =
|writers = Lowell Cunningham
|artists = [[Sandy Carruthers]]
|pencillers =
|inkers =
|colorists =
|creative_team_month =
|creative_team_year =
|creators = [[Lowell Cunningham]]
|TPB = The Men in Black
|ISBN = 0944735606
}}
'''''The Men in Black''''' is an American [[comic book]] created and written by [[Lowell Cunningham]], illustrated by [[Sandy Carruthers]], and originally published by [[Aircel Comics]], based on the "[[men in black]]" [[conspiracy theory]]. Aircel would later be bought out by [[Malibu Comics]], which itself was bought out by [[Marvel Comics]]. Three issues were published in 1990, with another three the following year. The comic book later spawned a [[Men in Black (franchise)|media franchise]] which includes a series of [[Men in Black (film series)|four films]], an [[Men in Black: The Series|animated television series]], video games, and a [[Men in Black: Alien Attack|theme park attraction]], as well as a number of [[tie-in]] [[one-shot (comics)|one-shot]] comics from Marvel. Cunningham had the idea for the comic once a friend of his introduced him to the concept of government "[[men in black]]" upon seeing a black van riding the streets.<ref name=met>"Metamorphosis of 'Men in Black'", ''Men in Black'' Blu-Ray</ref>

==Publication history==
The first series consisted of three issues and was published in 1990 by [[Aircel Comics]], [[cover-date]]d January to March 1990.<ref>[http://www.comics.org/series/26170/ ''The Men in Black''] at the [[Grand Comics Database]]</ref> After Aircel was acquired by [[Malibu Comics]], a second series appeared, ''The Men in Black Book II'' #1-3 (May–July 1991).<ref>[http://www.comics.org/series/30715/ ''The Men In Black Book II''] at the Grand Comics Database.</ref>

Malibu was purchased by [[Marvel Comics]] in 1994, and when the feature film ''[[Men in Black (1997 film)|Men in Black]]'' was released, Marvel published a number of one-shots in 1997, a sequel which is a reboot to the original comic line,<ref>[http://comicbookdb.com/issue.php?ID=2458 ''Men in Black: Far Cry''] at Comic Book DB</ref> a sequel to the film,<ref>[http://www.comics.org/series/40903/ ''Men in Black: Retribution'' (Marvel, 1997 series)] at the Grand Comics Database</ref> a movie adaptation,<ref>[http://www.comics.org/series/40846/ ''Men in Black: The Movie''] at the Grand Comics Database</ref> and a reprint of the first issue of the original Aircel miniseries.<ref>[http://comicbookdb.com/issue.php?ID=29889 ''Men in Black: American Entertainment Exclusive''] at Comic Book DB</ref>

The first series was collected into a [[trade paperback (comics)|trade paperback]] (June 1990, {{ISBN|0944735606}}).<ref>[http://www.comics.org/series/40561/ ''The Men in Black''] (trade paperback) at the Grand Comics Database.</ref>

==Plot==
{{about|the Men in Black organization as described in the original comics|the organization as described in other media|Men in Black (franchise)#Premise|section=yes}}
The Men in Black is an international agency which oversees and investigates both good and evil paranormal activity on [[Earth]], including [[alien life]], [[demons]], [[Mutant (fictional)|mutants]], [[zombie]]s, [[werewolves]], [[vampire]]s, [[legendary creature]]s and other paranormal beings. In order to keep their investigations [[Classified information#Top_Secret_(TS)|secret]], much of the global population are unaware of their activities, and are liable to be [[neuralyzer|neuralyzed]] to blank their memory of any interaction with the agents or phenomena connected to them.

Notable members include Zed, [[Agent J|Jay]], [[Agent K|Kay]], and Ecks. Ecks later becomes a rogue agent after learning that the MIB seeks to keep the supernatural hidden in order to manipulate and reshape the world in their own image.

An agent may use any means necessary, including death and destruction, to accomplish a mission. Agents sever all ties with their former lives, and (thanks to the neuralyzer) as far as the world is concerned, they do not exist.

== Adaptations ==
{{See also|Men in Black (franchise)}}
Beginning with the release of the film ''[[Men in Black (1997 film)|Men in Black]]'' in 1997, the comic book has been adapted across a wide variety of media, spawning an entire franchise. Starring [[Will Smith]] and [[Tommy Lee Jones]], the film proved a huge box office success for [[Columbia Pictures]] and Amblin Entertainment, resulting in two sequels: ''[[Men in Black II]]'' and ''[[Men in Black 3]]''. The popularity of the films subsequently led to many tie-ins and spin-offs, including an [[Men in Black: The Series|animated series]], novelizations, soundtracks of each film, video games, and a [[Men in Black: Alien Attack|theme park attraction]]. A spin-off was released in 2019, titled ''[[Men in Black: International]]''. It continues the universe of the first three films, instead of adapting the original material from the comic book.

Despite sharing the same basic premise, the various adaptations differ greatly from the original comics. Some of these differences include:

* The secret organization exclusively polices extraterrestrial activity on Earth, omitting the other paranormal elements.
* The agency uses memory erasure, rather than killing witnesses.
* The agency's main goal is to maintain order on Earth, rather than to direct it.
* Zed physically appears, rather than being an unseen character.
* Ecks is absent in the film, and is replaced by Dr. Laurel Weaver (later Agent L).
* Agent Jay is an [[African Americans|African-American]] man, instead of a blonde-haired [[white Americans|white]] man.
* The tone of the series was lightened, exchanging the comics' dark and bleak approach for comedy.

==References==
{{reflist}}

==External links==
* {{comicbookdb|type=title|id=12129|title=''Men in Black''}}
* {{comicbookdb|type=title|id=15214|title=''Men in Black II''}}
* [http://www.toonopedia.com/meninblk.htm ''The Men in Black''] at [[Don Markstein's Toonopedia]]. [https://archive.today/20240527181254/https://www.webcitation.org/6fLmiw39b?url=http://www.toonopedia.com/meninblk.htm Archived] from the original on February 17, 2016.

{{Men in Black}}

{{DEFAULTSORT:Men In Black}}
[[Category:Men in Black (franchise)|Men in Black (comics)]]
[[Category:1990 comics debuts]]
[[Category:1990 comics endings]]
[[Category:1991 comics debuts]]
[[Category:1991 comics endings]]
[[Category:Aircel Comics titles]]
[[Category:Malibu Comics titles]]
[[Category:Marvel Comics adapted into video games]]
[[Category:Marvel Comics titles]]
[[Category:American comics adapted into films]]
[[Category:Science fiction comics]]
[[Category:Spy comics]]
[[Category:Comics characters introduced in 1990]]
[[Category:Comics about extraterrestrial life]]

Manimal

2025-05-13T14:39:56Z

141.136.167.114:

{{Short description|American superhero television series (1983)}}
{{For|the band|Manimal (band)}}
{{Use mdy dates|date=January 2024}}
{{Infobox television
| image = Manimal.jpg
| image_upright = 1.14
| caption =
| alt = A man in a suit, holding a hawk. Beside him a blonde woman.
| genre = [[Superhero fiction|Superhero]]<ref>{{cite web |first=John |last=Witw |title=10 Cringeworthy Live-Action Superhero Shows |website=[[Comic Book Resources]] |date=13 July 2022 |access-date=14 July 2022 |url=https://www.cbr.com/cringeworthy-live-action-superhero-shows/}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |first=Daniel |last=Kurland |title=16 Superhero TV Shows That Have Aged Terribly |website=[[Screen Rant]] |date=17 January 2018 |access-date=21 July 2022 |url=https://screenrant.com/superhero-tv-shows-aged-badly-terribly/}}</ref>
| creator = {{Plainlist|
* [[Glen A. Larson]]
* Donald R. Boyle
}}
| writer = {{Plainlist|
* [[Michael Berk]]
* Larry Brody
* Sam Egan
* Joseph Gunn
* Paul Mason
* Coen R. Schuiten
* [[Douglas Schwartz]]
}}
| director = {{Plainlist|
* Chuck Bail
* Georg Fenady
* [[Daniel Haller]]
* [[Sidney Hayers]]
* [[Leslie H. Martinson]]
* [[Russ Mayberry]]
}}
| starring = {{Plainlist|
* [[Simon MacCorkindale]]
* [[Melody Anderson]]
* [[Michael D. Roberts]]
}}
| narrated = [[William Conrad]]
| theme_music_composer = [[Paul Chihara]]
| composer = {{Plainlist|
* Paul Chihara (pilot)
* [[Alan Silvestri]] (all other episodes)
}}
| country = United States
| language = English
| num_seasons = 1
| num_episodes = 8
| executive_producer = {{Plainlist|
* Glen A. Larson
* Paul Mason
}}
| runtime = 60 minutes
| company = {{Plainlist|
* Glen A. Larson Productions
* [[20th Television|20th Century Fox Television]]
}}
| network = [[NBC]]
| first_aired = {{Start date|1983|9|30}}
| last_aired = {{End date|1983|12|17}}
}}

'''''Manimal''''' is an American [[Superhero fiction|superhero]] television series created by [[Glen A. Larson]] and Donald R. Boyle which aired on [[Friday night death slot|Friday]]s at 9:00 pm [[Eastern Time Zone|ET]] on [[NBC]] from September 30 to December 17, 1983.<ref>[https://www.nytimes.com/1983/05/11/arts/nbc-schedules-nine-new-programs-for-fall.html Bedell, Sally. "NBC Schedules Nine New Programs for Fall", ''The New York Times'', Wednesday, May 11, 1983.] Retrieved February 15, 2025.</ref> The show centers on the character Jonathan Chase ([[Simon MacCorkindale]]), a [[Shapeshifting|shape-shifting]] man who can turn himself into any animal he chooses. He uses this ability to help the police solve crimes.

The series ended after an eight-episode run.

==Opening narration==
For every episode except the pilot, actor [[William Conrad]] recites the opening narration that tells of Chase's wealthy present life and his early days in [[Africa]] with his missionary father:
{{blockquote|Dr Jonathan Chase... wealthy, young, handsome. A man with the brightest of futures. A man with the darkest of pasts. From Africa's deepest recesses, to the rarefied peaks of [[Tibet]], heir to his father's legacy and the world's darkest mysteries. Jonathan Chase, master of the secrets that divide man from animal, animal from man. Partnered with a young police detective and the former army corporal from the [[Vietnam War|fields of Vietnam]], a trio that stands against the crime that breeds in the concrete jungles and stretches its deadly tentacles to the fascinating but dangerous world beyond... the world of Manimal!}}

==Overview==
''Manimal'' premiered as a 90-minute [[Television pilot|pilot]] that aired on September 30, 1983. The series featured the story of Jonathan Chase, a shape-shifter who could turn himself into any animal he chose, and used this ability to fight crime. Only two people were aware of Jonathan's secret, his friend Ty Earl and police detective Brooke Mackenzie. Jonathan and Ty would assist Brooke with a case she was working on, with Jonathan transforming himself into an animal when it became useful.

While Jonathan had the ability to change himself into any animal, he would transform into a [[hawk]] and a [[black panther]] in nearly every episode. In some episodes, he would transform into a third animal, such as a [[horse]], [[dolphin]], [[bear]], or [[Cattle|bull]], with the transformation taking place offscreen, though once he was shown becoming a [[snake]]. In one episode, he was shown to be able to assume the aspect of various animals simultaneously, rather than adopt their forms, such as the agility and speed of a panther or the suppleness and fast strikes of a snake. The transformation sequences were designed and created by the [[Academy Award]]-winning [[Special Visual Effects|SFX]] artist [[Stan Winston]].

Another aspect of the transformations that added to the show's camp factor involved Chase's clothing during a transformation: He was depicted generally wearing a three-piece suit and tie, and the viewer would see it rip off him as he shape-shifted into an animal, though once the transformation was complete there would be no sign of his discarded clothing. A bit later, he would transform back into human form with all of his clothing perfectly restored upon his person, even if he was unconscious.

==Cast==
* [[Simon MacCorkindale]] as Jonathan Chase
* [[Melody Anderson]] as Brooke Mackenzie
* [[Glynn Turman]] as Tyrone "Ty" C. Earl (pilot episode)
* [[Michael D. Roberts]] as Tyrone "Ty" C. Earl
* [[Reni Santoni]] as Lt. Nick Rivera
* [[William Conrad]] as Narrator (opening scene)
* Jack Greer as Young Jonathan Chase (pilot episode)

==US television ratings==
{| class="wikitable" style="text-align: center"
|-
! Season
! Episodes
! Start date
! End date
! Nielsen rank
! Nielsen rating<ref>{{cite web |author=J Clawson |url=http://www.tvratingsguide.com/2017/09/1983-84-ratings-history-networks-are.html |title=1983-84 Ratings History -- The Networks Are Awash in a Bubble Bath of Soaps |work=The TV Ratings Guide |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170929205244/http://www.tvratingsguide.com/2017/09/1983-84-ratings-history-networks-are.html |archive-date=September 29, 2017}}</ref>
! Tied with
|-
| style="text-align:center" | 1983-84
| style="text-align:center" | 8
| style="text-align:center" | September 30, 1983
| style="text-align:center" | December 17, 1983
| style="text-align:center: | 90
| style="text-align:center" | 10.1
| style="text-align:center" | ''[[The Yellow Rose]]''
|}

==Episodes==
{{Episode table |background=#cf9939 |overall=5 |title=19 |director=12 |writer=19 |airdate=13 |prodcode=6 |episodes=

{{Episode list
| Title = Manimal
| DirectedBy = [[Russ Mayberry]]
| WrittenBy = Donald R. Boyle & [[Glen A. Larson]]
| OriginalAirDate = {{Start date|1983|9|30}}
| EpisodeNumber = 1
| ProdCode = 101
| ShortSummary = 90-minute [[Television pilot|pilot]]: When a group of thieves devise a plan to hijack a shipment of nerve gas, detective Brooke Mackenzie must stop them. She teams up with Dr. Jonathan Chase, a man that knows the secrets that divide man and animal and who is trained in an African technique that allows him to transform into different animals. 
Guest stars: [[Ursula Andress]] as Karen Jade, [[Ed Lauter]] as Colonel Hunt, [[Lloyd Bochner]] as Jordon, [[Terry Kiser]] as Charlie P. Drew, [[Lara Parker]] as Drew’s Date.
| LineColor = cf9939
}}
{{Episode list
| Title = Illusion
| DirectedBy = [[Daniel Haller]]
| WrittenBy = Paul Mason
| OriginalAirDate = {{Start date|1983|10|14}}
| EpisodeNumber = 2
| ProdCode = 102
| ShortSummary = A Bulgarian ambassador hides behind his immunity status to smuggle illegal goods into the country.
Guest stars: [[Richard Lynch]] as Zoltan Gregory, [[David Hess]] as William.
In this episode, part of the scene on the taxi cab was later reused in the TV series ''[[Automan]]'' in season 1, episode 3 "The Great Pretender". ''Automan'' was another TV series created by Glen A. Larson. Both ''Manimal'' and ''Automan'' were being filmed around the same time.
| LineColor = cf9939
}}
{{Episode list
| Title = Night of the Scorpion
| DirectedBy = Daniel Haller
| WrittenBy = Glen A. Larson
| OriginalAirDate = {{Start date|1983|10|21}}
| EpisodeNumber = 3
| ProdCode = 103
| ShortSummary = While being interrogated by Russian agents about the location of a list, a man dies from a truth serum drug. A note and $2 million are left to his daughter Terry. Jonathan, Brooke and Ty must protect Terry while trying to locate the list before the Russian agents do.
Guest stars: [[Doug McClure]] as Arnold Syphes, [[Robert O'Reilly]] as Russian Agent.
| LineColor = cf9939
}}
{{Episode list
| Title = Female of the Species
| DirectedBy = Georg Fenady
| WrittenBy = [[Michael Berk]] & [[Douglas Schwartz]]
| OriginalAirDate = {{Start date|1983|10|28}}
| EpisodeNumber = 4
| ProdCode = 104
| ShortSummary = After a girl is found living with wolves in the forests of [[Sultanpur district|Sultanpur]], India, she is the topic of discussion at a local university where she is being held. When an attempt is made on her life, Jonathan takes her into his care and protection. Her identity must be found in order to discover who it is that is trying to kill her. 
Guest star: [[Michael McGuire (actor)|Michael McGuire]] as Stanford Langly, Laura Cushing as The Wolf Girl, [[Paul Haber]] as Punk 1, Kenny Tessel as Punk 2, Clyde Risley Jones as Punk 3, [[Mark Harden]] as Punk 4.
This episode has an almost identical storyline to a 1986 episode of ''[[The Wizard (TV series)|The Wizard]]'' titled "Endangered Species", as well as a 1994 episode of the same name in ''[[Thunder in Paradise]]''. All three episodes were written by [[Michael Berk]] and [[Douglas Schwartz]].
| LineColor = cf9939
}}
{{Episode list
| Title = High Stakes
| DirectedBy = [[Sidney Hayers]]
| WrittenBy = Michael Berk & Douglas Schwartz
| OriginalAirDate = {{Start date|1983|11|4}}
| EpisodeNumber = 5
| ProdCode = 105
| ShortSummary = When a [[horse]] trainer recognizes her stolen horse in a race, Jonathan helps her try to recover it.
Guest star: [[David Sheiner]] as Sheldon Greentree
| LineColor = cf9939
}}
{{Episode list
| Title = Scrimshaw
| DirectedBy = Charles Bail
| WrittenBy = Michael Berk, Al Breitenbach & Douglas Schwartz
| OriginalAirDate = {{Start date|1983|12|3}}
| EpisodeNumber = 6
| ProdCode = 106
| ShortSummary = While at the beach, Jonathan and the others discover a [[scrimshaw]] ([[walrus]] tusk with carvings on it) in the clutches of a skeleton. They begin investigating at a local bar where they encounter someone who has been looking for it for their whole life. This episode includes a new transformation sequence, in which Jonathan turns into a snake.
Guest stars: [[Meeno Peluce]] as Corky Morgan, [[Keenan Wynn]] as Sea Dog Morgan
| LineColor = cf9939
}}
{{Episode list
| Title = Breath of the Dragon
| DirectedBy = [[Leslie H. Martinson]]
| WrittenBy = Joseph Gunn
| OriginalAirDate = {{Start date|1983|12|10}}
| EpisodeNumber = 7
| ProdCode = 107
| ShortSummary = Jonathan, Brooke and Ty must stop a criminal who extorts money from businesses in [[Chinatown]] while posing as a superstitious icon known as The Dragon.
Guest stars: [[George Cheung]] as the Dragon, [[James Hong]] as Grandfather Tan
| LineColor = cf9939
}}
{{Episode list
| Title = Night of the Beast
| DirectedBy = Russ Mayberry
| WrittenBy = Sam Egan
| OriginalAirDate = {{Start date|1983|12|17}}
| EpisodeNumber = 8
| ProdCode = 108
| ShortSummary = While on a well-deserved vacation, Jonathan, Ty and Brooke get involved to thwart an attempt by a syndicate boss to illegally take over the town of Birch Hollow in order legalize gambling and build a large casino.
Guest stars: [[Jeff Corey]] as Zeke Bethune, Dana Gladstone as Jack Slocum, [[Robert Englund]] as Thug, [[Grainger Hines]] as Keslo, [[Wayne Heffley]] as Osmond.
| LineColor = cf9939
}}
}}

===''Night Man''===
* [[Glen A. Larson]], the creator, briefly resurrected the Jonathan Chase character for a [[Fictional crossover|crossover]] with his 1990s series ''[[Night Man (TV series)|Night Man]]''. In that episode, ''Manimal''{{'}}s traditional, [[Practical effect|practical-effects]] transformation was abandoned in favor of a [[Computer-generated imagery|CGI]] sequence.

{| class="wikitable plainrowheaders" border="1""
! style="background:#500050; color:#FFFFFF"| No.
! style="background:#500050; color:#FFFFFF"| Title
! style="background:#500050; color:#FFFFFF"| Directed by
! style="background:#500050; color:#FFFFFF"| Written by
! style="background:#500050; color:#FFFFFF"| Original air date
! style="background:#500050; color:#FFFFFF"| Production code

{{Episode list
| Title = Manimal
| DirectedBy = [[Allan Eastman]]
| WrittenBy = Glen A. Larson
| OriginalAirDate = {{Start date|1998|11|9}}
| EpisodeNumber = 28
| ProdCode = 206
| ShortSummary = Night Man allies with Dr. Jonathan Chase, a man who knows how to transform into different animals.
| LineColor = 500050
}}
|}

==Home media releases==
''Manimal: The Complete Series'' was released on DVD in the UK in PAL region 2 by Fabulous Films on August 27, 2012.<ref>{{cite web |title=Manimal / Complete Series |url=http://www.fabulousfilms.com/products/105 |website=FabulousFilms.com |access-date=January 13, 2024}}</ref> The three-disc set includes the TV-movie pilot and seven original full-length episodes. Special features includes a near 20-minute interview with series creator Glen A. Larson, production notes, biographies, galleries, ''Automan'' TV series trailer and episode guide booklet.

''Manimal'' was released on DVD by Condor Entertainment (3 disc set) in France on October 18, 2012.

[[Shout! Factory]] released the complete series on DVD in Region 1 for the very first time on November 10, 2015.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://tvshowsondvd.com/news/Manimal-The-Complete-Series/21452 |title='The Complete Series' is Announced for DVD at Long Last! |work=[[TVShowsOnDVD.com]] |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150821024051/http://www.tvshowsondvd.com/news/Manimal-The-Complete-Series/21452 |archive-date=2015-08-21}}</ref>

==Annual==
In 1984, a ''Manimal Annual'' was released in the UK, which is a book containing stories, comics and games based on the show.

==Reception and cancellation==
''Manimal'' was scheduled opposite [[CBS]]'s highly popular [[prime time]] [[soap opera]] ''[[Dallas (TV series)|Dallas]]''. The 90-minute pilot aired on September 30, 1983; the one-hour series debuted two weeks later, but was placed on hiatus after only four regular episodes had aired, with production ceasing at that time. The show returned to the NBC schedule a month later, airing the three remaining already-produced episodes before the show was officially canceled due to low ratings on December 14, 1983.<ref>[https://www.nytimes.com/1983/12/15/arts/nbc-revises-prime-time-schedule.html Smith, Sally Bedell. "NBC Revises Prime-Time Schedule", ''The New York Times'', Thursday, December 15, 1983.] Retrieved February 15, 2025.</ref> NBC's 1983 fall line-up also featured eight other series that were axed before their first seasons ended (including ''[[Jennifer Slept Here]]'', ''[[Bay City Blues]]'', and ''[[We Got It Made]]'').<ref>{{cite book |last=Hofstede |first=David |title=What Were They Thinking: The 100 Dumbest Events in Television History |publisher=Back Stage Books |year=2004 |page=87 |isbn=0-8230-8441-8}}</ref>

''Manimal'' is not well regarded by many TV viewers and the series received negative reviews from critics. John Javna's book ''The Best of Science Fiction TV'' included ''Manimal'' in its list of the "Worst Science Fiction Shows of All Time", along with ''[[Space: 1999]]'', ''[[Lost in Space]]'', ''[[Buck Rogers in the 25th Century (TV series)|Buck Rogers in the 25th Century]]'', and ''[[The Starlost]]''.<ref>{{cite book |first=John |last=Javna |title=The Best of Science Fiction TV: the critics' choice |location=New York |publisher=Harmony Books |date=1987 |isbn=0517566508 |pages=76–77}}</ref> ''[[TV Guide]]'' also ranked ''Manimal'' number 15 on their list of the 50 Worst TV Shows of All Time in 2002. In 2004, readers of the British trade weekly ''[[Broadcast (magazine)|Broadcast]]'' voted ''Manimal'' as one of the worst television shows ever exported by the U.S. to the U.K. It placed fifth on their list, exceeded only by ''[[Baywatch]]'', ''[[The Anna Nicole Show]]'', ''[[The Dukes of Hazzard]]'' and ''[[Wild Palms]]''.<ref>{{cite news |url=http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/entertainment/4043211.stm |title=''Baywatch'' dubbed "worst TV import" |work=[[BBC News]] |date=25 November 2004 |access-date=10 October 2017}}</ref> ''The Ultimate Encyclopedia of Fantasy'' described ''Manimal'' thus: "Axed after seven regular episodes, the only surprise being that it ever got past the pilot stage".<ref>{{cite book |author-link=David Pringle |editor-first=David |editor-last=Pringle |title=The Ultimate Encyclopedia of Fantasy |page=106 |location=London |publisher=Carlton |year=2006 |isbn=1-84442-110-4}}</ref>

''Manimal'' was the subject of much sarcastic ribbing on fellow [[NBC]] show ''[[Late Night with David Letterman]]'', including a nearly nine-minute segment called ''Manimal: Show At The Crossroads'' that aired on November 8, 1983, after it was announced that ''Manimal'' would be put on hiatus. After a detailed recounting of the show's plots, and a call to NBC headquarters to determine if the show would be brought back, a psychic was brought in to predict ''Manimal'''s future: the verdict was "nope, not on another network, not in syndication, not on home cassettes...it's a ghost, it's history, it's vapor".<ref>Archived at [https://ghostarchive.org/varchive/youtube/20211205/JmYrscLAVXw Ghostarchive]{{cbignore}} and the [https://web.archive.org/web/20201205040511/https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JmYrscLAVXw Wayback Machine]{{cbignore}}: {{cite web |url=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JmYrscLAVXw |title="Manimal"'s status on Letterman, November 8, 1983 |website=[[YouTube]]|date=July 19, 2016}}{{cbignore}}</ref>

''Manimal'' had an associated toy line of solid, non-articulated figurines sold as [[rack jobber|rack toys]] made by [[Fleetwood Toy Corporation]]. These depicted the character in mid-transformation, such as to a cobra and to a lion.<ref>{{cite book |last=Heiler |first=Brian |title=Rack Toys: Cheap, Crazed Playthings |publisher=Plaid Stallions |date=2012 |page=98 |isbn=9780991692200}}</ref>

==Film==
In September 2012, [[Sony Pictures Animation]] was developing a live-action/CGI film based on ''Manimal''. The series creator and producer, [[Glen A. Larson]], was once again attached as a producer.<ref>{{cite news |last=Kit |first=Borys |title='Manimal' TV Series Being Turned Into Movie at Sony Pictures Animation (Exclusive) |url=https://www.hollywoodreporter.com/heat-vision/manimal-tv-series-movie-sony-animation-370769 |access-date=September 17, 2012 |newspaper=The Hollywood Reporter |date=September 17, 2012}}</ref> The film was slated to be produced by [[Will Ferrell]] and [[Adam McKay]] through their [[Gary Sanchez Productions]], and by Jimmy Miller through his Mosaic Media Group.<ref name="DeadlineFerrellMcKayMiller" /> Jay Martel and [[Ian Roberts (American actor)|Ian Roberts]] have been hired to write the script.<ref name="DeadlineFerrellMcKayMiller">{{cite web |last1=Yamato |first1=Jen |title='Manimal' To Roar With Will Ferrell, Adam McKay & Jimmy Miller |url=https://deadline.com/2014/07/manimal-movie-will-ferrell-adam-mckay-jimmy-miller-sony-808018/ |website=[[Deadline Hollywood]] |access-date=July 22, 2014 |date=July 22, 2014}}</ref> Larson died in 2014, and as of 2025, no further news of the project has emerged since its announcement.

==See also==
* ''[[Space: 1999]]'' (UK series that featured Maya, an alien woman with the same shape-shifting ability)
* ''[[Animorphs (TV series)|Animorphs]]'', a TV series adaptation of the [[Animorphs|book series of the same name]]
* ''[[Sheena (TV series)|Sheena]]''

==References==
{{Reflist}}

==External links==
* {{IMDb title|0085898|Manimal (Pilot)}}
* {{IMDb title|0085051|Manimal}}

{{Portal bar|United States|Television|1980s}}

[[Category:1983 American television series debuts]]
[[Category:1983 American television series endings]]
[[Category:1980s American science fiction television series]]
[[Category:American English-language television shows]]
[[Category:American fantasy drama television series]]
[[Category:NBC television dramas]]
[[Category:Television series about shapeshifting]]
[[Category:Television series by 20th Century Fox Television]]
[[Category:Television series created by Glen A. Larson]]
[[Category:Television shows scored by Alan Silvestri]]
[[Category:Television shows set in Massachusetts]]

Prime (comics)

2025-05-13T14:01:02Z

141.136.167.114: /* Appearances in other media */

{{Short description|Malibu Ultraverse superhero}}
{{About|the Malibu Ultraverse superhero||Prime (disambiguation)}}
{{Infobox comics character 
|image = Prime Vol 1 1.jpg
|caption = Cover to ''Prime'' #1, art by Norm Breyfogle, 1993.
|character_name = Prime
|real_name = Kevin Green
|species = Ultra
|publisher = [[Malibu Comics]] [[Marvel Comics]]
|debut = ''Prime'' #1 (June 1993)
|creators = [[Gerard Jones]] [[Len Strazewski]] [[Norm Breyfogle]]
|alliances = [[Ultraforce (comics)|Ultraforce]]
|aliases = Space Prime Rogue Prime Phoenix Prime Spider-Prime
|powers = '''As Prime:'''
* [[Superhuman strength]], stamina, and durability
* [[Flight]]
* Concussion beams
'''As Kevin:'''
* Organic exoskeleton
}}

'''Prime''' is a [[superhero]] character created by Bob Jacob, [[Gerard Jones]], [[Len Strazewski]], [[Norm Breyfogle]], and [[Bret Blevins]]. The character debuted in ''Prime'' #1 under [[Malibu Comics]]' [[Ultraverse]] imprint, and was one of the publisher's flagship characters, and a member of its superhero team [[Ultraforce]].<ref>The Superhero Book: The Ultimate Encyclopedia of Comic-Book Icons and Hollywood Heroes, Gina Misiroglu (2012), p. 377.</ref> The character is a thirteen-year-old boy named Kevin Green with the power to transform into the physical form of a super-powered adult, but with his adolescent mind unchanged. This is a source of conflict for the character, as he is frequently placed in situations he may not be mature enough to deal with.

==Publication history==
The character first appeared in ''Prime'' #1 ([[cover-date]]d June 1993), written by [[Gerard Jones]] and [[Len Strazewski]] and illustrated by [[Norm Breyfogle]]. The series ran until August 1995, with a total of 26 issues. Breyfogle departed as regular artist after issue #12, with subsequent artists including [[George Pérez]], [[Darick Robertson]], and [[John Statema]].

As part of the [[Ultraverse]] imprint, the comic was set within the company's shared universe of super-powered beings commonly referred to as "Ultras". Writers Jones and Strazewski used the book to explore a number of themes, such as the place of [[role model]]s in establishing personal definitions of [[heroism]].

After [[Marvel Comics]] purchased Malibu in 1994, the publisher began crossing characters between the two universes, culminating in 1995, with an event known as "Black September", which incorporated the Malibu Ultraverse characters into the [[Marvel Universe]]. A second volume of the series ran from September 1995 to December 1996, with a total of 16 issues.

==Character history==
===Rise as Ultrahero===
Prime began his heroic activities attacking a gym teacher that was molesting Kelly, a classmate Kevin has a crush on. Next he attacked a drug dealer and terrorist from Somalia.<ref>''Prime'' #1 Vol. 1 (1993)</ref> A scientist named Dr. Gross began the search for Prime and captured him with help of his minion Duey.<ref>''Prime'' #2 Vol. 1 (1993)</ref> Dr. Gross reveals to Prime that he intervened in his creation, when he modified some babies years before as part of a government program. Prime become enraged by the revelation and fled.<ref>''Prime'' #3 Vol. 1 (1993)</ref> Full of doubts, Prime tried to meet his idol Hardcase, and went to Hollywood to search for him, but ended up meeting Prototype, an ultra that acted as spokesperson for Ultratech. The two young heroes didn't get along and fought. Prime proved stronger but caused a fire and fled.<ref>''Prime'' #4 Vol. 1 (1993)</ref> Later, Prime fought a demon that took the form of a cartoon character,<ref>''Prime'' #5 Vol. 1 (1993)</ref> and was recruited by the U.S. government for a special mission on the Moon. He met Colonel Samuels, who tried to use Prime as a weapon. He experimented on Prime's body, transforming it to a space resistant version.<ref>''Prime'' #6 Vol. 1 (1993)</ref>

===Break-Thru===
Prime was ordered to travel to the Moon and when he arrive he saw figures of his parents and his crush Kelly trying to control him and was finally convinced to protect the mysterious entity of the Moon.<ref>''Prime'' #7 Vol. 1 (1993)</ref> Various ultras (Hardcase, Choice, [[Mantra (comics)|Mantra]], Prototype, [[The Strangers (Malibu Comics)|The Strangers]] and ''The Solution'') arrived to the moon in the search of the entity. Minions of the villain Rex Mundi arrived too and fought Prime. Prime almost lost consciousness in the middle of the battle, but was rescued by Mantra. All the Ultraheroes discovered the source of the "Jumpstart Effect" which has been granting people powers all across Earth. Alongside other ultraheroes, Prime protected the Entity, a crashed alien starship that was causing the Jumpstart Effect, from attack from Mundi's minions. It is soon allowed to return home.<ref>''Break-Thru'' #1-2 (1993)</ref>

Prime returned to Earth followed by Prototype.<ref>''Prototype'' #6 (1993)</ref> In Earth, Prime confronted Dr. Gross again, and was help by the sorcerer Mantra in the battle. He was recaptured by Colonel Samuels.<ref>''Prime'' #8-9 Vol. 1 (1993)</ref> Worrying about his son, Russell Green hired the Private Detective Alec Swan, alias ''Firearm'', who infiltrated the army base of Samuels and rescued Kevin.<ref>''Firearm'' #6 (1993)</ref> Prime, impressed by Swan, decided to create a new form of his Prime body, similar to Swan, with a scar in the face, calling himself ''Rogue Prime''. Defeated, Samuels took his life.<ref>''Prime'' #10 (1993)</ref>

===Ultraforce===
Later Prime formed part of [[Ultraforce]] and fought the subterrain warlord Attalon. Prime had the idea of forming the team, after listening to a remark from Hardcase and begin recruiting members. He ended fighting Prototype again. In the aftermath of the invasion of Attalon, Prime joined other heroes, an presented to the President of United States in the White House.<ref>''Ultraforce'' #0-6 Vol. 1 (1994)</ref> When Hardcase was being defeated by N.M.E., Prime arrived to save the hero and destroyed the mechanic menace. Shortly after, Prime was attacked by the serial killer ''Rafferty''. Prime and some friends went to the Godwheel.

===Black September===
Prime and Prototype met the Marvel hero [[Black Knight (Dane Whitman)|Black Knight]] when he arrived to the Ultraverse. Prime and Prototype battled the hero, but they overcame the misunderstanding, listening the story of the visitor.<ref>''Ultraforce'' #8 Vol. 1 (1994)</ref> In the crossover with the Avengers, Prime battled [[Thor (comics)|Thor]]. He also met the Hulk and Captain America. Kevin was lost in the Marvel Universe and befriended Spider-Man. He transformed briefly in a spider-theme Prime called Spider-Prime. Prime had his last solo fight against Lord Pumpkin in Brazil. Afterwards, he joined Ultraforce in the final assault against Demonseed.

A Spider-Prime version of the character was seen in the ''[[Spider-Verse]]'' event.

==Powers and abilities==
Kevin transforms into Prime by projecting an organic "liquid flesh" material from his torso. The liquid flesh then shapes itself into a tall man with exceptionally large and defined muscular development. Prime can revert to his teenage form by destabilizing the outer body into a mess of protein goo, either consciously or when his Prime-body's energy reserves run out. When this happens, Kevin must pull himself out of the body's remains or risk suffocating.

As Prime, Kevin possesses tremendous strength with unknown limits, once lifting an entire outdoor gym with relative ease. His resistance to physical injury is also exceptionally high, having survived a close proximity explosion of several nuclear warheads. Prime can also fly at mach-level of velocity. Although all of Prime's powers are modeled after traditional superhero powers, these limitations are defined mostly by Kevin's subconscious aspirations.

In fact, it is frequently suggested that the appearance of the Prime-body is formed mostly by Kevin's subconscious. Many of the features of the Prime-body are taken from Kevin's role models such as action stars and comic book superheroes. Another Ultraverse character who shares a similar origin, Elven, is a fan of ''[[Elfquest]]'' comics and creates a body for herself that is a mishmash of various [[Tolkienesque]] fantasy elements. The face of Prime also bears a striking resemblance to Kevin's own father, Russell Green.

In effect the Prime-body reflects Kevin's own attitudes towards heroism at any given moment. As such, Prime's physical appearance has changed numerous times. Common elements exist among the different Prime-bodies though, such as a stylized 'P' resting somewhere on his chest or cape and some metallic adornment such as chains or gauntlets. Some of his forms include:
* '''First Prime''' - a Prime-body obviously inspired by comic book superheroes, as well as local bodybuilders from Kevin's home state. As the first Prime-body, it defines the visual template for the other Prime-bodies. The body possesses extremely developed muscles and prominent veins. The costume is made up of a large red cape, red pants, gold gauntlets, calfguards and chestplate and features the trademark stylized 'P' on both the cape and the chestplate.
* '''Space Prime''' - a Prime-body meant to withstand to harsh conditions of outer space. This design was force fed into Kevin's subconscious by military scientists working for Colonel Samuels. The epidermal layer has been transformed into a hardened shell resembling some kind of metallic alloy, designed to prevent the body from expanding in the vacuum of space. A set of air-tanks exist in the subdermal layer. The gold gauntlets, calfguard and chestplate remain as well as the 'P' insignia on his chest, but the cape is absent (in the ''Ultraforce'' cartoon, it was Contrary who suggested to him changing form).
* '''Rogue Prime''' - a Prime-body inspired by rugged individualistic heroes such as the gun-toting antihero Firearm. The body also sports a series of gold chains around the waist, and a set of spiked armbands and headgear. Tattoos and piercings are also notable, as well as a scar on the right eye. The color scheme is radically different, with the 'P' insignia being black on gold, and the vest being dark blue rather than gold and leather gloves replace the gauntlets. In the ''Ultraforce'' animated series, Rogue Prime is created when Kevin falls under mind control, as well as from his inner doubts.
* '''Final Prime''' - a Prime-body that reconciles the values of Rogue Prime with the inspirations of the First Prime. The visual appearance is closer to that of the First Prime than the Rogue Prime - cape, gauntlets and all but sections of the cape and pants mix blue and red. Hints of the Rogue Prime exist in the form of tattoos, albeit much fewer in number than in the Rogue Prime. There is a slight amount of arm-hair, also a residual element from the Rogue Prime.
* '''Spider-Prime''' - a Prime-body inspired in part by [[Spider-Man]]. When Kevin was trapped in the [[Marvel Universe]], he only had half of his power. When he tried to become "primed up", he became a mass of slime and unable to control himself. When he tried to help Spider-Man fight [[Lizard (character)|the Lizard]], he changed into Spider-Prime. This form was a smaller version of Prime with a face mask and gave him six arms. Kevin transformed twice more into a variant version of Spider-Prime, but this body he claimed was 'not Spider-Man's anymore', indicating that somehow the first Spider-Prime may have been a direct imprint on Spider-Man. The second Spider-Prime, like the first, had a red and blue color-scheme much like Spider-Man, along with a mask with red around the eyes, but it also included gauntlets and a massive golden spider on the chest, along with boots to match the gauntlets. The second Spider-Prime had no extra arms except for a singular use in battle with the primary Prime body, which was one-use only. Both of the second Spider-Prime transformations enabled Kevin to use webbing.

==Supporting cast, allies and enemies==
* '''Kelly Cantrell''' is one of Kevin's classmates with a self-proclaimed irrational crush on Prime. She babysits Gus and Evie Blake who are the children of [[Mantra (comics)|Mantra]]. Prime has frequently saved Kelly's life and once declared her as his girlfriend. The apparent age difference between Kelly and a hero who appears to be thirty years old makes this problematic.
* '''Russell Green''' is Kevin's father and a former military officer who worked directly under Colonel Samuels. He resigned his commission to become an engineer. When he and his wife had trouble conceiving, he volunteered to become a part of Samuels' fertility research program. When he discovered Kevin's identity as Prime, he contacted Samuels, but later went on to pursue an undercover crusade against the military branch that Samuels worked for.
* '''Colonel Samuels''' is an ambitious military officer, Colonel Samuels was directly responsible for many dirty secrets in the military. Chief among them was the fertility research program headed by Doc Gross that created Prime, as well as Elven. Samuels attempted to use a combination of blackmail and media manipulation to coerce Kevin/Prime into using his powers to further his own ends. When Prime attempted to blow the cover on his black ops, Samuels committed suicide.
* '''Doc Gross''' is the head researcher of the fertility research program that created Prime. Due to unethical nature of his research, Gross had to destroy much of his files and research notes when a government crackdown was imminent. He attempted to capture Prime for further experimentation but this encounter nearly resulted in his death. A mysterious treatment 'vat' gave him a similar superbody but requires several treatments to remain stable. His current agenda is to breed new ultrahumans like Prime.
* '''Primevil''' is a reanimated discarded Prime body, this nearly mindless creature encountered Prime once, attempting to absorb him and take his power.

==Possibility of revival==
In 2003, [[Steve Englehart]] was commissioned by Marvel to relaunch the [[Ultraverse]] with the most recognizable characters, including Prime, but the project was cancelled.<ref>Cronin, Brian. (April 15, 2017) [https://www.cbr.com/ultraverse-marvel-relaunch-steve-englehart/] CBR.com</ref><ref>[http://www.steveenglehart.com/Comics/Strangers%20Marvel.html Englehart Steve]</ref> In June 2005, when asked by ''[[Newsarama]]'' whether Marvel had any plans to revive the Ultraverse, Marvel editor-in-chief [[Joe Quesada]] replied:

:Let's just say that I wanted to bring these characters back in a very big way, but the way that the deal was initially structured, it's next to impossible to go back and publish these books. There are rumors out there that it has to do with a certain percentage of sales that has to be doled out to the creative teams. While this is a logistical nightmare because of the way the initial deal was structured, it's not the reason why we have chosen not to go near these characters, there is a bigger one, but I really don't feel like it's my place to make that dirty laundry public.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.newsarama.com/JoeFridays/JoeFridays9.html|title=Joe Fridays - Week 9|publisher=[[Newsarama]]}}</ref>

==Appearances in other media==
Prime was a recurring character in the short-lived [[Ultraforce#Animated series)|''Ultraforce'' animated series]], where Hardcase acts as his mentor (as he is the only one in the team who knows that Prime is a teenager), and he constantly bickers with Prototype, usually insulting him because his lack of super powers. Prime's team faces off with other Ultraverse villains such as Rune and Lord Pumpkin. Prime is voiced by [[Michael Donovan]], and Prime's alter ego, Kevin Green, is voiced by Amos Crawley.

Prime was one of the action figures produced for [[Galoob|Galoob's]] ''Ultraforce'' line.

Prime also starred in a [[Sega CD]] disc published by [[Sony Imagesoft]] bundled with [[Psygnosis]]' ''[[Microcosm (video game)|Microcosm]]'' [[video game]]. Though marketed as a video game, ''Ultraverse Prime'' is actually a [[multimedia]] CD which includes digital copies of 12 issues of the ''Prime'' comic book, video interviews with Prime's creators, some concept art, and a [[beat 'em up]] game.<ref name="GPro79">{{cite magazine|title=ProReview: Ultraverse Prime|magazine=[[GamePro]]|issue=79 |publisher=[[International Data Group|IDG]]|date=April 1995|page=51}}</ref> The disc received a negative review from ''[[GamePro]]''.<ref name="GPro79"/>

A pastiche of Prime was included among the army of [[Alternative versions of Superman|Supermen]] in ''[[Final Crisis]]'' #7.

In October 2002, [[Marvel Studios]] announced a film deals for [[Namor|Sub-Mariner]] and Prime with [[Universal Pictures|Universal Studios]] while Universal had the ''Hulk'' film in post-production with a then-expected June 6 release date.<ref>{{cite news|last1=Worley|first1=Rob|title=Comics2Film: Sub-Mariner, Prime|url=http://www.comicbookresources.com/?page=article&id=14241|access-date=February 5, 2016|work=Comic Book Resources|date=October 9, 2002}}</ref> In 2003 Marvel's earning report wrote that its status was "to be determined".<ref>{{cite news|last1=Worley|first1=Rob|title=Marvel Movies: The Next Wave|url=http://www.comicbookresources.com/?page=article&id=1877|access-date=February 5, 2016|work=Comic Book Resources|date=March 4, 2003}}</ref> No progress was made with the adaptation of ''Prime'' and is presumably canceled.

==References==
{{reflist}}

==External links==
* {{Marvunapp|http://www.marvunapp.com/Appendix3/primeuvgreenkevin.htm|Prime}}

{{Ultraverse}}

{{DEFAULTSORT:Prime (Comics)}}
[[Category:Characters created by Norm Breyfogle]]
[[Category:Comics characters introduced in 1993]]
[[Category:Fictional characters with energy-manipulation abilities]]
[[Category:Fictional Jews in comics]]
[[Category:Malibu Comics characters]]
[[Category:Malibu Comics titles]]
[[Category:Marvel Comics adapted into video games]]
[[Category:Marvel Comics characters with superhuman durability or invulnerability]]
[[Category:Marvel Comics characters with superhuman strength]]
[[Category:Marvel Comics male superheroes]]
[[Category:Jewish superheroes]]
[[Category:Marvel Comics teenage superheroes]]
[[Category:Ultraverse]]

Avengers/Ultraforce

2025-05-13T12:50:22Z

141.136.167.114:

{{Short description|Comic crossover}}
{{Infobox comic book title
| image = Ultraforce Avengers Prelude Vol 1 1.jpg
| caption = Sersi and the Black Knight on the cover of ''UltraForce / Avengers Prelude''.
| format =
| publisher = [[Malibu Comics]] (Ultraforce) and [[Marvel Comics]] (Avengers)
| date = July - October 1995
| writers = [[Glenn Herdling]] (Avengers/Ultraforce) [[Warren Ellis]] (Ultraforce/Avengers)
| artists = [[Angel Medina (artist)|Angel Medina]] and M. C. Wyman (Avengers/Ultraforce) [[George Pérez]] (Ultraforce/Avengers)
| editors =
| issues = 2
| main_char_team = Avengers, Ultraforce
| ISBN =
| TPB =
| ISBN2 =
| website =
}}
The '''''Avengers/Ultraforce''''' event is a two-part [[intercompany crossover]] between [[Malibu Comics]] and [[Marvel Comics]]. The first issue, ''[[Avengers (comics)|Avengers]]/[[Ultraforce]]'', was written by [[Glenn Herdling]] with art by [[Angel Medina (artist)|Angel Medina]] and M. C. Wyman.<ref>''Avengers/Ultraforce'' #1 (Oct. 1995)</ref> The sequel, ''Ultraforce/Avengers'', was written by [[Warren Ellis]] with art by [[George Pérez]], who also illustrated wraparound covers on both issues.<ref>''Ultraforce/Avengers'' #1 (Fall 1995)</ref>

==Plot==
The [[Asgardians (Marvel Universe)|Asgardian]] god [[Loki (Marvel Comics)|Loki]] enters the Ultraverse and collects the [[Infinity Gems]] from the possession of various Ultraverse's heroes,<ref>''NecroManta/Lord Pumpkin'' flip book (April 1995)</ref> also discovering the existence of a seventh Gem: Ego. Loki learns the Infinity Gems were originally part of a gestalt entity known as "Nemesis".<ref>''Avengers/Ultraforce'' #1 (Oct. 1995)</ref> The Ego Gem possessed the Avenger [[Sersi]] when she arrived to Ultraverse from [[Earth-616]].<ref>''Ultraforce'' #8 (1995). Malibu Comics.</ref>

The slaying of Nemesis caused a reality-changing effect in the Ultraverse called the Black September.

==Publication history==
* ''Ultraforce/Avengers'' Prelude #1: "The Swords Are Drawn..." ([[Malibu Comics]], July 1995) (it is numbered 11 in the [[Indicia (publishing)|indicia]] continuing Ultraforce's numbering)
* ''Avengers/Ultraforce'' #1 ([[Marvel Comics]], October 1995)
* ''Ultraforce/Avengers'' #1: "Becoming More Like God" (Malibu Comics, Fall 1995)

==References==
{{reflist}}

==External links==
* {{comicbookdb|type=title|id=2896|title=''Avengers/Ultraforce''}}
* {{comicbookdb|type=title|id=2829|title=''Ultraforce/Avengers''}}
* {{Marvelwiki|nemesis-infinity-gems-restored|Nemesis}}

{{Avengers publications}}

{{DEFAULTSORT:Avengers Ultraforce}}
[[Category:1995 comics debuts]]
[[Category:Comics by George Pérez]]
[[Category:Comics by Warren Ellis]]
[[Category:Intercompany crossovers]]
[[Category:Malibu Comics titles]]
[[Category:Avengers (comics) titles]]
[[Category:Ultraverse]]

{{Marvel-title-stub}}

Comico: The Comic Company

2025-05-13T03:22:36Z

141.136.167.114:

{{Short description|Defunct American comic book publisher}}
{{for|the webtoon portal also known as Pocket Comics|Comico (platform)}}
{{redirect|Next Man|the comic written and drawn by John Byrne|Next Men|the 1976 film|The Next Man}}
{{Infobox company
| name = Comico: The Comic Company
| logo = Comicologo.png
| foundation = 1982
| defunct = 1997
| founder = Gerry Giovinco, Bill Cucinotta
| key_people = Geraldine Pecht (art director) [[Bob Schreck]] (administrative director) Mark Hamlin (sales and marketing rep)<ref>{{cite magazine|magazine=[[Comics Interview]]|title=Mark Hamlin: A Rap with a Sales Rep|number=10|date=Jun 1984|publisher=[[Fictioneer Books]]}}</ref> [[Diana Schutz]] (editor-in-chief)<ref name="Schultz1">{{cite web |last1=Campbell |first1=Josie |title=EXCLUSIVE: After 25 Years at Dark Horse, Retiring Schutz Explains Why She's Done Chasing Deadlines |url=https://www.cbr.com/exclusive-after-25-years-at-dark-horse-retiring-schutz-explains-why-shes-done-chasing-deadlines/ |website=Comic Book Resources |access-date=September 23, 2021 |date=March 11, 2015 |archive-date=September 23, 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210923211242/https://www.cbr.com/exclusive-after-25-years-at-dark-horse-retiring-schutz-explains-why-shes-done-chasing-deadlines/ |url-status=live}}</ref>
| location = [[Norristown, Pennsylvania]]
| industry = [[Comics]]
| homepage =
}}
'''Comico: The Comic Company''' was an American [[comic book]] publisher headquartered in [[Norristown, Pennsylvania]]. Its best-known comics include the ''[[Robotech (comics)|Robotech]]'' adaptations, the ''[[Jonny Quest]]'' continuation written by co-creator [[Doug Wildey]], and [[Matt Wagner]]'s ''[[Mage (comics)|Mage: The Hero Discovered]]'' and ''[[Grendel (comics)|Grendel]]''. Once considered a major contender on the [[United States|American]] market, Comico went into bankruptcy in 1990, although it continued to sporadically publish books until 1997. In 2009, two of Comico's original founders launched an original [[webcomics]] site called '''CO{{sub|2}} Comics''', which they explained was the reincarnation of Comico.

==History==
===Origins===
Comico was founded in 1982<ref>"New Publishers Proliferate in Summer", ''The Comics Journal'' #75 (September 1982), p. 19.</ref> by a group of artists and publishers who had previously printed a local school paper called ''Duckwork'' in the Norristown area. Their first book, ''Primer'' #1, attempted to establish a large black-and-white line, featuring the premiere stories of Victor, Slaughterman, Az, Mr. Justice and Skrog. Slaughterman, Az, and Skrog made it out of the pages of ''Primer'' #1 and into their own brief titles, while Victor would continue to appear in each issue of ''Comico Primer''.

''Primer'' #2 would premiere what would be Comico's flagship title{{Citation needed|date=May 2023}} for most of its existence: ''Grendel''. Matt Wagner's ''Grendel'' quickly leaped from ''Primer'' into three issues of its own black-and white-series before Comico ended its black-and-white titles in 1984 with ''Primer'' #6. [[Sam Kieth]]'s character [[The Maxx]]—later to have his own [[Image Comics]] title—was first seen in ''Primer'' #5. Chuck Dixon's Evangeline debuted in ''Primer'' #6 and thereafter received its own standalone title.

===The move to color===
In March 1984 Comico introduced its color line of comics with:
* ''Mage: The Hero Discovered'' (hand-painted pages)
* ''[[Evangeline (comics)|Evangeline]]'' – [[Chuck Dixon]]'s first comic writing venture with co-creator [[Judith Hunt]]'s pencils and hand-painting, and [[Ricardo Villagran]]'s inks
* ''[[Elementals (Comico Comics)|Elementals]]'' by [[Bill Willingham]] (in flat color).

Although an ownership dispute<ref>"''Evangeline'' Caught in Ownership Dispute", ''The Comics Journal'' #97 (April 1985), pp. 13–14.</ref> led to ''Evangeline'' moving to [[First Comics]] to be continued for two more years,<ref name="changes">"Changes at Comico: ''Evangeline'' and ''Next Man'' Out, ''Elementals'' In", ''The Comics Journal'' #103 (November 1985), pp. 11–12.</ref> Comico landed a major license in ''[[Robotech]]'', with 1984 seeing the debut of ''[[Super Dimension Fortress Macross|Macross]]'', which continued in 1985 as ''Robotech: The Macross Saga'', along with the debut of two additional ''Robotech'' series, ''Robotech Masters'' (adapting ''[[Super Dimension Cavalry Southern Cross|Southern Cross]]'') and ''Robotech: The Next Generation'' (adapting ''[[Genesis Climber MOSPEADA|MOSPEADA]]''). The three series produced a schedule that released a ''Robotech'' comic book once every two weeks, until the license for ''Robotech'' moved to [[Eternity Comics]] in 1988. ''[[Next Man]]'' debuted in 1984, although another ownership dispute led to ''Next Man'' soon moving to another publisher. This was offset in 1986, when Comico acquired ''[[Justice Machine]]'' and the ''[[Elementals (Comico Comics)|Elementals]]'' from the defunct Texas Comics.<ref name="changes" />

The company continued to pick up other licenses, producing a ''[[Jonny Quest]]'' series (and ''Jezebel Jade'' spin-off), a ''[[Space Battleship Yamato|Star Blazers]]'' series, and a planned ''[[Max Headroom (TV series)|Max Headroom 3-D]]'' issue (unpublished).<ref>{{cite magazine |last=Elliot |first=Brad |editor-last=Thompson |editor-first=Kim |title=Max Headroom 3-D |date=Summer 1987 |magazine=Amazing Heroes Preview Special |issue=5 |page=78 |publisher=[[Fantagraphics]]}}</ref> [[Ken Steacy]] illustrated a [[Harlan Ellison]] graphic novel. [[Dave Stevens]]'s ''[[The Rocketeer (character)|The Rocketeer]]'' and ''[[Space Ghost]]'' also made the line-up.

Other series included ''[[Maze Agency|The Maze Agency]]'' and ''Ginger Fox''.

===Bankruptcy===
While Comico had proven to be a serious contender as a major independent comic company, a mid-1986 decision to distribute to the newsstand market doomed the company.<ref name="tcj.com">{{cite web | url= http://www.tcj.com/beta/interviews/the-bill-willingham-interview-part-two-of-four/2/ | website= The Comics Journal | via= tcj.com | title= The Bill Willingham Interview (Part 2 of 4) | publisher= | date= October 2006 | first= Bill | last= Willingham | interviewer= Dirk Deppey | access-date=}}{{dead link|date=June 2015}}</ref> The direction significantly raised the number of prints for each issue, but also increased the number of issues being sent back that did not sell. Refunds for those returned issues ate into the publisher's budget very quickly (and, among other things, they had trouble paying their printing bills).<ref>"Comico Owes Printer $700,000", ''The Comics Journal'' #118 (December 1987), pp. 11–12.</ref> In response to this, Comico began to push out a number of new titles, aimed at spreading out the number of returned comics between various titles. In 1988 they began distributing their titles to the bookstore market,<ref>"Comico Hits Bookstores", ''The Comics Journal'' #123 (July 1988), p. 14.</ref> and in 1989 partnered with [[DC Comics]] to distribute their comics to a wider market.<ref>"DC to Publish, Distribute Comico", ''The Comics Journal'' #126 (January 1989), pp. 17–19.</ref>

Despite these measures, however, and with the end of the ''Mage'', ''Grendel'' and ''Robotech'' series, much of the reliable revenue for the company dried up. Many of the company's long-time artists and publishers jumped ship and, by 1989, Comico had cancelled half its titles<ref>"Comico Cancels Half Its Line", ''The Comics Journal'' #128 (April 1989), pp. 5–6.</ref> and was deep into [[bankruptcy]]. ''[[Fish Police]]'' and ''Trollords'' were picked up by [[Apple Comics]], while ''The Trouble with Girls'' was acquired by [[Malibu Comics]]<ref>"Three Former Comico Titles Find New Homes", ''The Comics Journal'' #129 (May 1989), pp. 13–14: about ''Fish Police'', ''Trollords'', and ''The Trouble with Girls''; and ''The Maze Agency'', which had not yet found a new publisher.</ref> and ''[[Justice Machine]]'' and ''[[Maze Agency|The Maze Agency]]'' went to [[Innovation Comics]]. Comico suspended operations in 1990,<ref>"Comico Suspends Operations", ''The Comics Journal'' #138 (October 1990), p. 8.</ref> with ''[[E-Man]]'' #3.

===Andrew Rev===
In 1990, the owners of the company sold Comico<ref>"Comico Sold", ''The Comics Journal'' #137 (September 1990), pp. 9–10.</ref><ref name="Robot6">{{cite web |url=https://www.cbr.com/comico-2-0-company-founders-return-on-the-web/ |title=Comico 2.0? Company founders return on the web |publisher=Comic Book Resources |date=2009-07-06 |access-date=2022-04-02 |archive-date=2022-02-02 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220202000121/https://www.cbr.com/comico-2-0-company-founders-return-on-the-web/ |url-status=live}}</ref> to Andrew Rev, who released the rest of the original staff and began working on relaunching the company.<ref>"Comico's Comeback", ''The Comics Journal'' #139 (December 1990), p. 8.</ref><ref>"Newswatch: Whither Comico?" ''The Comics Journal'' #140 (February 1991), p. 12.</ref><ref name="Comics Journal 141">"Newswatch: Rev Keeps Comico, Buys Into Northstar", ''The Comics Journal'' #141 (April 1991), p. 20.</ref> With the planned relaunch, Rev held onto as many of the original Comico series he could.

Most significantly hit were Matt Wagner's creations ''Mage'' and ''Grendel''. ''Mage II: The Hero Defined'', expected out in 1989, was not published until the late 1990s. Both Comico and Wagner had jointly [[copyright]]ed ''Mage'' and ''Grendel'', and with Comico in bankruptcy, that half of the copyright was claimed as a company asset.<ref>"Newswatch: ''Grendel'' to Get New Home?", ''The Comics Journal'' #145 (October 1991), p. 28.</ref> A two-part [[Batman]]/Grendel crossover, ''Devil's Riddle'' and ''Devil's Masque'', was written and drawn by Wagner and colored at the time of the Comico series, but was delayed by Comico's bankruptcy. It was eventually published by DC in 1993.<ref>"''Batman/Grendel'' Series Moving Ahead", ''The Comics Journal'' #158 (April 1993), pp. 26.</ref> Wagner regained sole copyright of ''Grendel'' that same year, and, much later, ''Mage'', publishing the series through [[Dark Horse Comics]] and [[Image Comics]] respectively.

While losing Wagner's characters, Rev did manage to buy ''Elementals'' for his restart.<ref name="tcj.com"/><ref>{{cite web |last=Robinson |first=Tasha |url=https://www.avclub.com/bill-willingham-1798212276 |title=Bill Willingham |publisher=The A.V. Club |date=2007-08-06 |access-date=2022-04-02 |archive-date=2022-04-02 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220402230958/https://www.avclub.com/bill-willingham-1798212276 |url-status=live}}</ref> Comico began printing again in 1992 with various ''Elementals''-related comics, and in 1993 flooded the market with various one-shot ''Elementals'' specials. Rev also acquired '''Northstar Publishing'''.<ref name="Comics Journal 141" /> Budgetary problems and conflicts with creators over payments<ref>"Caveat Creator: Creators Accuse Independent Publishers of Untimely Payment", ''The Comics Journal'' #156 (February 1993), pp. 18–20.</ref> led to Comico's presses going silent again until 1995,<ref>"Newswatch: Comico Revs Up for Return", ''The Comics Journal'' #175 (March 1995), pp. 26–27.</ref> with yet another ''Elementals'' title (running three issues), and various ''Elementals'' spin-offs never making it past their first or second issues. Northstar continued publishing material as late as 1995.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Northstar |url=https://www.comics.org/publisher/657/ |access-date=2023-05-23 |website=Grand Comics Database |language=en}}</ref> Comico's line ended in 1997 with ''Elementals Sex Special'' vol. 2, #2, illustrated by [[Frank Quitely]] and ''Elementals: The Vampires Revenge'' #2, the second installment of a four-issue limited series starring the spin-off character Ratman, illustrated by Kelly McQuain.

===CO{{sub|2}} Comics===
In 2009, Comico co-founders Gerry Giovinco and Bill Cucinotta launched the [[webcomic]] site CO2 Comics.<ref>{{cite web |title=A Q&A with CO2 Comics' Gerry Giovinco |url=http://www.geekadelphia.com/2012/11/01/a-qa-with-co2-comics-gerry-giovinco/comment-page-1/ |date=1 November 2012 |publisher=Geekadelphia |access-date=11 September 2018 |archive-date=3 May 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230503150608/https://geekadelphia.com/ |url-status=live}}</ref> The site hosted several of the comics from the ''Comico Primer'', including work by Reggie Byers, [[Bernie Mireault]], Rich Rankin, and Neil Vokes.<ref name="Robot6" />

As of May 2022, the website is no longer online.<ref>{{Cite web |url=http://www.co2comics.com/ |title=Welcome co2comics.com - Hostmonster.com |access-date=2022-05-04 |archive-date=2022-05-22 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220522130244/http://co2comics.com/ |url-status=dead}}</ref>

==Titles published==
===Original titles===
* ''Comico Christmas Special'' (1988), #1
* ''Comico Primer'' (1982–1984), #1–6
* ''[[Elementals (Comico Comics)|Elementals]]''
** v1 (1984–1988), #1–29 (continued from Texas Comics)
** v2 (1989–1993), #1–26
** v3 (1995–1996), #1–3
** ''Elementals Sex Special'' v1 (1991–1993), #1–4
** ''Elementals Sex Special'' v2 (1996–1997), #1–2
** ''Elementals: Ghost of a Chance'' (1995), #1
** ''Elementals: How the War was Won'' (1996), #1–2
** ''Elementals: The Natural Order'' (1988), TPB (collects ''Justice Machine Annual'' #1 from Texas Comics and v1 #1–5)
** ''Elementals: The Vampires Revenge'' (1996), #1–2
** ''Elementals: Vortex'' (1991–1992), #1–2
*''[[Evangeline (comics)|Evangeline]]'' (1984), #1–2 (continued at [[First Comics]])
* ''[[Grendel (comics)|Grendel]]''
** v1 (1984), #1–3
** v2 (1986–1990), #1–40
* ''[[Mage (comics)|Mage: The Hero Discovered]]'' (1984–1986), #1–15 (continued at [[Image Comics]])
* ''Silverback'' (1989), #1–3

===Other titles (selected)===
* ''The Amazon'' (1989), #1–3
* ''Bloodscent'' (1988), #1
* ''AZ'' (1983), #1–2
* ''[[E-Man]]''
** v3 (1989), #1 (from [[First Comics]])
** v4 (1989–1990), #1–4 (continued at Alpha Productions)
* ''Empire Lanes: Arrival'' (1990), TPB (as Keyline Books; collects ''Empire Lanes'' (1986), #1–4 from Northern Lights Publishing)
* ''ESC'' (1996), #1–2
* ''[[Fish Police]]''
* ''Ginger Fox'' (1988), #1–4
* ''[[Gumby]]''
** ''Gumby's Summer Fun Special'' (1987), #1
** ''Gumby's Winter Fun Special'' (1988), #1
* ''[[The Jam (comics)|The Jam, Urban Adventure: Super Cool Color Injected Turbo Adventure from Hell]]'' (1988), #1
* ''Jezebel Jade'' (1988), #1–3
* ''[[Jonny Quest]]''
** ''Jonny Quest'' (1986–1987), #1–31
** ''Jonny Quest Classic'' (1987), #1–3
** ''Jonny Quest Special'' (1988), #1–2
* ''[[Justice Machine]]''
** ''Justice Machine featuring The Elementals'' (1986), #1–4
** ''Justice Machine'' v2 (1987–1989), #1–29
** ''Justice Machine Annual'' (1989), #1
* ''[[Maze Agency|The Maze Agency]]'' (1988–1989), #1–7 (continued at [[Innovation Publishing|Innovation]])
* ''Next Man'' (1985), #1–5
* ''Ribit!'' (1989), #1-4 by [[Frank Thorne]]
* ''[[Robotech (comics)|Robotech]]''
** ''Robotech: Macross Saga'' (1984–1988), #1–36
** ''Robotech: Masters'' (1985–1988), #1–23
** ''Robotech: The New Generation'' (1985–1988), #1–25
** ''Robotech: The Graphic Novel'' (1986), TPB
** ''Robotech in 3-D'' (1987), #1
* ''[[The Rocketeer (character)|The Rocketeer]] Adventure Magazine'' (1988–1989), #1–2 (continued at [[Dark Horse Comics|Dark Horse]])
* ''[[Sam & Max]], Freelance Police Special'' (1989), #1
* ''Skrog'' (1983), #1
* ''[[Space Battleship Yamato|Star Blazers]]'' (1987), #1–4
* ''[[Space Ghost]]'' (1987), #1
* ''Strike Force America'' (1992), #1
* ''Trollords'' (1988–1989), #1–4 (from Tru Studios, continued at Apple Press)
* ''[[The Trouble with Girls (comics)|The Trouble with Girls]]'' (1989), #1–4 (from Eternity, continued at Eternity)
* ''The World of Ginger Fox'' (1986), graphic novel

==References==
{{Reflist|colwidth=30em}}

==Sources==
* Bill Cucinotta and Gerry Giovinco interview, ''David Anthony Kraft's Comics Interview'' #5 (July 1983).

==External links==
* {{comicbookdb|type=publisher|id=50|title=Comico}}

{{Comic book publishers in North America navbox}}

[[Category:Comico Comics| ]]
[[Category:Defunct comics and manga publishing companies]]
[[Category:Comic book publishing companies of the United States]]
[[Category:Companies established in 1982]]
[[Category:Companies disestablished in 1997]]
[[Category:1982 establishments in Pennsylvania]]

Fish Police

2025-05-13T03:19:41Z

141.136.167.114:

{{Short description|Comic book series published 1985–1991}}
{{For|the television series based on this comic series|Fish Police (TV series)}}
{{Infobox comic book title
| image = Fishpolicecomic.jpg
| caption = Cover of ''Fish Police'' Fishwrap issue #2, illustrated by Steve Moncuse.
| schedule = Monthly
| genre = Crime Comedy Funny animal
| ongoing = Y
| publisher = Fishwrap Productions [[Comico: The Comic Company|Comico]] [[Apple Press]] [[Marvel Comics]]
| date = June 1985 - 1991
| issues = 26
| main_char_team = Inspector Gill Angel Jones
| writers = Steve Moncuse
| artists = Steve Moncuse
| inkers = [[Sam Kieth]]
| colorists = [[Tom Vincent]], Matt Webb (Comico only)
| editors = Paul Nagy
| creators = Steve Moncuse
}}
'''''Fish Police''''' is a comic book series by American cartoonist Steve Moncuse. The plot centers on law and crime in a fictional underwater metropolis with the protagonist, Inspector Gill, trying to solve various crimes, often Mafia-related, while avoiding being seduced by the buxom Angel Jones. The comic featured several marine species as its characters, while the plots and dialogue were reminiscent of [[film noir]].<ref name="moncuse">{{cite news|title=Moncuse's "Fish Police" Are Back on Patrol|work=[[Comic Book Resources]]|url=http://www.comicbookresources.com/?page=article&id=29977|accessdate=13 May 2012}}</ref>

Original ''Fish Police'' stories were published from 1985 to 1991. [[Sam Kieth]] (''[[The Maxx]]'') inked "a single panel and drew a 'Next Issue' pin-up".<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.comicbookresources.com/?page=article&id=29977|title=Moncuse's "Fish Police" Are Back on Patrol|website=Comic Book Resources|accessdate=19 March 2016}}</ref>

==Story==
The story centers Inspector Gill, a fish detective who, it is hinted at, had once been a human.<ref name="harlan"/> He is met by a female fish named Angel, who tells him that her uncle has developed a drug called Hairballs. The uncle, Calamari, meets Gill and tells him that he will trade Hairballs for his niece.<ref name="roth">{{cite book|last=Rothschild|first=D. Aviva|title=Graphic Novels: A Bibliographic Guide to Book-Length Comics|publisher=Libraries Unlimited|page=109}}</ref>

== Publication history ==
''Fish Police'' started in 1985 as a [[self-published]] black-and-white title by Moncuse through his own Fishwrap Productions. After 11 issues, the title was picked up by [[Comico: The Comic Company|Comico]] in 1987, which reprinted issues #1–4 in a trade titled ''Hairballs'', followed by color reprints of the publication's remaining issues.<ref name="slings"/> Comico also printed a special prequel issue, and continued the series with number #12.

After issue #17, Comico went bankrupt. ''Fish Police'' was then acquired by [[Apple Press]],<ref>"Three Former Comico Titles Find New Homes", ''The Comics Journal'' 129 (May 1989), pp. 13-14: about ''Fish Police'', ''Trollords'' and ''The Trouble with Girls''; and ''The Maze Agency'', which had not yet found a new publisher.</ref> The new series continued the numbering begun by Comico, but the comic reverted to black-and-white. Apple published the title until early 1991, when the run ended with number #26.<ref name="slings"/> Apart from the main series, Apple Press printed an issue #0 which featured an early draft of the stories seen in issues #1–5. In 1992–1993, [[Marvel Comics]] reprinted the first six issues in color.<ref name="slings"/>

Apple published a six-issue spin-off, ''Fish Shticks'', written by Moncuse and drawn by Steve Hauk, between 1992 and 1993. This series was more gag-based than the original.<ref name="slings">{{cite book|editor=Frank Plowright|title=The Slings & Arrows Comic Guide|year=2003|publisher=Slings & Arrows, Ltd.|page=243}}</ref> In 2010, Moncuse began the work on a new ''Fish Police'' title, set 20 years after the end of the original.<ref name="moncuse"/> [[IDW Publishing]] reprinted the first four Fishwrap issues in a trade in February 2011.<ref name="moncuse"/> A new story written and drawn by Moncuse, titled "F.P.B.C.", appeared in ''[[Dark Horse Presents]]'' issue #22, published in March 2013.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.comicbookresources.com/?page=article&id=42637|title=Dark Horse Comics Solicitations for March, 2013|website=Comic Book Resources|accessdate=13 August 2013}}</ref>

=== Issues ===
* ''Fish Police'' (Fishwrap Productions) — 12 issues (June 1985 - November 1987)
* ''Fish Police Special'' (Comico) — 1 issue (July 1987)
* ''Fish Police: Hairballs'' (Comico), introduction by Harlan Ellison (October 1987)
* ''Fish Police'' (Comico) — 14 issues (April 1988 – June 1989)
* ''Fish Police'' (Apple Press) — 9 issues (August 1989 - Spring 1991) plus issue #0 (1991)
* ''Fish Police'' (Marvel Comics) — 6 issues (October 1992 – March 1993) (color reprints of the original 6 issues)

==Critical reception==
''Slings and Arrows Comics Guide'' called the characters "pleasing" and the art a "clean, open style", but criticized the writing for being "like a glossy dramatisation of a blockbuster, specially designed not to be too upsetting or too taxing". The same publication called ''Fish Shticks'' "fresh, funny, and wonderfully human".<ref name="slings"/> [[Harlan Ellison]] describes it as a series that "turns to gibberish when one attempts to codify it", praising Moncuse's writing style.<ref name="harlan">{{cite book|last=Ellison|first=Harlan|title=Edgeworks: The Harlan Ellison hornbook|year=1997|publisher=White Wolf Publications|page=354}}</ref> D. Aviva Rothschild, in ''Graphic Novels: A Bibliographic Guide to Book-Length Comics'', called it "all idea and little execution", saying that "there are too many characters and too many threads of plot", although she praised Moncuse's art.<ref name="roth"/>

==Animated series==
{{Main|Fish Police (TV series)}}
[[Hanna-Barbera|Hanna-Barbera Productions]] adapted ''Fish Police'' into an animated television series that was first broadcast on [[CBS]] in 1992,<ref>{{cite magazine|url=http://www.ew.com/ew/article/0,,20275861,00.html|title=''Fish Police'' review|last=Tucker|first=Ken|date=28 February 1992|magazine=[[Entertainment Weekly]]|accessdate=17 May 2012|archive-date=10 January 2010|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20100110001724/http://www.ew.com/ew/article/0,,20275861,00.html|url-status=dead}}</ref> lasting only six episodes over one season. The show was cancelled after only three episodes; the remaining three episodes have never been shown in the US. ''Fish Police'' had a decidedly more mature tone than most other animated Hanna-Barbera series, with episodes often filled with innuendo and cases of mild language. It also featured several stars' voices, including [[Ed Asner]], [[John Ritter]], [[Tim Curry]], [[Hector Elizondo]], [[Buddy Hackett]], [[Megan Mullally]], [[Robert Guillaume]] and [[JoBeth Williams]].

== References ==
{{reflist}}

==External links==
* [http://toonopedia.com/fishpoli.htm ''Fish Police''] at [[Don Markstein's Toonopedia]]. [https://archive.today/20240527215744/https://www.webcitation.org/6jNFbMRTz?url=http://toonopedia.com/fishpoli.htm Archived] from the original on July 29, 2016.

[[Category:1985 comics debuts]]
[[Category:Fictional fish]]
[[Category:Fictional police officers in comics]]
[[Category:Fictional police detectives]]
[[Category:Comics adapted into animated series]]
[[Category:Comics adapted into television series]]
[[Category:Comics characters introduced in 1985]]
[[Category:Comics about anthropomorphic fish]]
[[Category:Comics about police officers]]
[[Category:Crime comics]]
[[Category:Marvel Comics titles]]
[[Category:Comico Comics titles]]
[[Category:Underground comix]]

Mage (comics)

2025-05-13T02:49:37Z

141.136.167.114:

{{Short description|American superhero comic book by Matt Wagner}}
{{Use mdy dates|date=December 2018}}
{{Infobox comics meta series 
|title = Mage
|image = Mage - the Hero Defined (no. 1, cover art).jpg
|imagesize = 
|caption = ''Mage: The Hero Defined'' cover by [[Matt Wagner]]
|alt =
|schedule =
|limited = y
|titles = {{Plain list|
* ''Mage: The Hero Discovered''
* ''Mage: The Hero Defined''
* ''Mage: The Hero Denied''
}}
|notable = y
|Fantasy = first
|Myth = first
|Superhero = y
|multigenre = y
|publisher = [[Comico: The Comic Company|Comico]] [[Image Comics]]
|date = {{Plain list|
* February 1984 – December 1986
* July 1997 – October 1999
* July 2017 – Feb 2019
}}
|startmo = 
|startyr = 1984
|endmo = 
|endyr = 
|issues = {{Plain list|
* ''Discovered'': 15
* ''Defined'': 16, #0–15
* ''Denied'': 16, #0–15
}}
|main_char_team = Kevin Matchstick
|writers = Matt Wagner
|artists =
|pencillers = Matt Wagner
|inkers = Matt Wagner [[Sam Kieth]]
|letterers =
|colorists = Matt Wagner [[Jeromy Cox]] Brennan Wagner
|editors = [[Diana Schutz]]
|creative_team_month =
|creative_team_year =
|creators = [[Matt Wagner]]
|TPB = Hero Discovered Volume 1
|ISBN = 1-58240-388-0
|TPB# =
|ISBN# =
|subcat = Comico Comics
|altcat =
|alttop =
|sort = Mage
|addpubcat1 = Image Comics limited series
}}

'''''Mage''''' is an American [[superhero]] [[comic book]] written and illustrated by [[Matt Wagner]], which he describes as an "allegorical autobiography" in which the hero, Kevin Matchstick, is a stand-in for the author, and "[a]ll the other characters he encounters and situations he endures are metaphors from my own life... told through the lens of a fantasy adventure".<ref>Rich Johnston, [https://www.bleedingcool.com/2017/03/02/bleeding-cool-talks-matt-wagner-mage-hero-denied-final-chapter-announced-image-comics-eccc-2017/ "Bleeding Cool Talks to Matt Wagner About Mage: The Hero Denied, The Final Chapter, Announced by Image Comics at ECCC 2017"], Bleeding Cool, March 2, 2017</ref> Three volumes, each of 15 issues, have been published.

==Publication history==
Volume one, ''The Hero Discovered'', was published by [[Comico: The Comic Company|Comico]] from February 1984 to December 1986. Despite advertisements saying that a sequel was "coming soon", ''The Hero Defined'' did not appear until 1997, published by [[Image Comics]] (Comico had gone bankrupt in 1990, and it had taken some time for Wagner to regain the rights to the series). The third and final volume, ''The Hero Denied'', began publication with an introductory "zero issue" in July 2017, with the first issue proper following in August.<ref>{{cite web |last1=Markstein |first1=Don |website=Don Markstein's Toonopedia |accessdate=2 April 2020 |url=http://www.toonopedia.com/mage.htm |title=Mage}}</ref> The final issue came out on February 27, 2019, thirty-five years after the publication of the first.

Wagner wrote and drew all three series, with [[Sam Kieth]] as [[inker]] for part of the first, [[Jeromy Cox]] as colorist for the second, and his son Brennan Wagner as colorist for the third.

==Plot synopsis==
''The Hero Discovered'' follows Kevin Matchstick, an alienated young man who meets a wizard called Mirth and discovers that he, among other things, possesses both a magic baseball bat and superhuman abilities. In the course of the comic, he defeats the nefarious plans of a being called the Umbra Sprite. He ultimately discovers that Mirth is [[Merlin (wizard)|Merlin]], the baseball bat is [[Excalibur]], and he is, in some ambiguous way, [[King Arthur]]. All the chapter titles are lines from [[William Shakespeare|Shakespeare's]] ''[[Hamlet]]''.<ref>[http://www.annotatedmage.net/chap1.shtml The Annotated Mage: The Hero Discovered]</ref>

A backup story, "Devil by the Deed", appeared in issues #6–14 of ''The Hero Discovered''. This was a [[Grendel (comics)|Grendel]] story that led directly into the Grendel comic series written by Wagner and drawn by a series of other artists.

''The Hero Defined'' picks up Matchstick's adventures several years later as he fights supernatural menaces in the company of other heroes, including Kirby Hero and Joe Phat. Each hero he encounters is based both on a mythological character and a comics professional of Wagner's acquaintance (Kirby as [[Hercules]] and [[Bernie Mireault]], Joe as [[Coyote (mythology)|Coyote]] and [[Joe Matt]]).<ref>Matthew David Surridge, [https://www.blackgate.com/2017/07/13/the-tripartite-hero-matt-wagners-mage/ "The Tripartite Hero: Matt Wagner’s Mage"] Black Gate, July 13, 2017</ref> There is a new mage this time—Mirth has disappeared, and Matchstick is followed around by an old tramp called Wally Ut, who insists he is Matchstick's new mentor. In the course of the story Matchstick learns that he has misunderstood his mission, meets his future wife, and is alienated from his fellow heroes. He also discovers that he represents more than one mythical character: he is also [[Gilgamesh]], and Kirby is also [[Enkidu]]. The chapter titles of ''The Hero Defined'' are from ''[[Macbeth]]'',<ref>[http://comicbookdb.com/title.php?ID=256 Mage: The Hero Defined (1997) – Comic Book DB]</ref> and Matchstick's wife and her siblings are heavily based on the [[Weird Sisters]].{{Citation needed|date=December 2010}}

''The Hero Denied'' takes place several years after the second series. Matchstick and his family are in hiding, trying to avoid the Umbra Sprite, now known as the Umbra Witch, who has regenerated in a female form, and has female children called Gracklethorns, instead of the males in the first two series called Grackleflints. All of the chapters have titles taken from Shakespeare's ''[[The Tempest]]''.<ref>[http://comicbookdb.com/title.php?ID=56460 Mage: The Hero Denied (2017) – Comic Book DB]</ref> The final issue came out on February 27, 2019, thirty-five years after the publication of the first comic.<ref>[https://imagecomics.com/press-releases/matt-wagners-mage-series-comes-to-epic-conclusion-after-35-years-finale-issue-to-feature-8-page-gatefold MATT WAGNER'S MAGE SERIES COMES TO EPIC CONCLUSION AFTER 35 YEARS, FINALE ISSUE TO FEATURE EIGHT-PAGE GATEFOLD image comics.com]</ref>

The ultimate issue of each volume was double-sized, and featured a [[gatefold]] page of [[panorama|panoramic]] art. The final issue contains an eight-page gatefold.<ref>[https://imagecomics.com/press-releases/matt-wagners-mage-series-comes-to-epic-conclusion-after-35-years-finale-issue-to-feature-8-page-gatefold MATT WAGNER'S MAGE SERIES COMES TO EPIC CONCLUSION AFTER 35 YEARS, FINALE ISSUE TO FEATURE EIGHT-PAGE GATEFOLD image comics.com]</ref>

''Mage'' ran as a back up feature in Comico's ''Grendel'' series issues #16–19.

==Collected editions==
The series has been collected into a number of [[trade paperback (comics)|trade paperbacks]] and a hardcover limited edition.

* ''Mage: The Hero Discovered'': Starblaze Graphics
** Trade Paperback
*** Volume 1 (March 1987, {{ISBN|978-0-89865-465-3}})
*** Volume 2 (December 1987, {{ISBN|978-0-89865-560-5}})
*** Volume 3 (June 1988, {{ISBN|0-89865-616-8}})
** Hardcover, Slipcased, Limited Edition of 1500
*** Volume 1 (March 1987, {{ISBN|0-89865-467-X}})
*** Volume 2 (April 1987, {{ISBN|0-89865-467-X}})
*** Volume 3 (May 1987, {{ISBN|0-89865-615-X}})

* ''Mage: The Hero Discovered'': Image Comics, paperback
** ''Volume 1'' (216 pages, June 2017, {{ISBN|978-1534303690}})
** ''Volume 2'' (206 pages, October 2017, {{ISBN|978-1534303768}})
* ''Mage: The Hero Defined'':
** ''Volume 3'' (208 pages, January 2018, {{ISBN| 978-1534304765}})
** ''Volume 4'' (208 pages, May 2018, {{ISBN|978-1534306592}})
* ''Mage: The Hero Denied'':
** ''Volume 5'' (208 pages, October 2018, {{ISBN|978-1534304895}})
** ''Volume 6'' (206 pages, April 2019, {{ISBN|978-1534310414}})

==Awards==
The trade paperback, ''Mage: The Hero Discovered, Vol. 1'' was a top votegetter for the [[Comics Buyer's Guide Fan Award]] for Favorite Reprint Graphic Album for 1999.{{Citation needed|date=August 2010}}

==Other media==
In June 2002, [[Zack Snyder]] took over directing a film adaptation, after [[F. Gary Gray]] left the project to [[The Italian Job (2003 film)|remake]] ''[[The Italian Job]]'', for [[Walt Disney Pictures]] with [[Spyglass Entertainment]] to produce the film.<ref>{{cite web|author=Stax|title=Zack Attacks Mage|url=https://www.ign.com/articles/2002/08/06/zack-attacks-mage|date=June 16, 2002|work=[[IGN]]|access-date=December 1, 2022}}</ref> In 2010 the rights were picked up by producer [[Lloyd Levin]].<ref>{{cite web|last=Goldberg|first=Matt|date=August 3, 2010|title=WATCHMEN Producer Lloyd Levin Adapting Matt Wagner's Comic Book MAGE|url=https://collider.com/mage-comic-matt-wagner-adapted-movie-lloyd-levin-watchmen/|accessdate=July 25, 2020|work=Collider}}</ref> As of 2025 there are no further news of this project.

==Notes==
{{Reflist}}

==References==
{{Refbegin}}
*{{gcdb series|id=2952|title=Mage: The Hero Discovered}}
*{{Comicbookdb|type=title|id=3764|title=''Mage: The Hero Discovered''}}
*{{gcdb series|id=5894|title=Mage: The Hero Defined}}
*{{Comicbookdb|type=title|id=256|title=''Mage: The Hero Defined''}}
{{Refend}}

==External links==
* [http://www.mattwagnercomics.com/home.html Matt Wagner's home page]
* [http://www.toonopedia.com/mage.htm ''Mage''] at [[Don Markstein's Toonopedia]]. [https://archive.today/20160925020424/http://www.toonopedia.com/mage.htm Archived] from the original on February 12, 2016.
* Steinberger, David, ed. [http://www.annotatedmage.net/ The Annotated Mage]
* [https://web.archive.org/web/20060118100514/http://users.rcn.com/aardy/comics/awards/cbg.shtml Comics Buyer's Guide Fan Awards]

{{DEFAULTSORT:Mage (Comics)}}
[[Category:Arthurian comics]]
[[Category:Comics by Matt Wagner]]
[[Category:Comico Comics titles]]
[[Category:1984 comics debuts]]

Grendel (comics)

2025-05-13T02:41:11Z

141.136.167.114:

{{Short description|Comic book series by Matt Wagner}}
{{Distinguish|Grendel (Marvel Comics)}}
{{More citations needed|date=August 2008}}
{{Infobox comic book title
| title = Grendel
| image = Cover illustration of Grendel.jpg
| caption = ''Grendel: Devil Tales'' cover by [[Matt Wagner]]
| schedule = Monthly; irregular
| format =
| publisher = [[Comico: The Comic Company|Comico Comics]] [[Dark Horse Comics]]
| date = October 1982 – present
| issues =
| main_char_team = Hunter Rose, Christine Spar, Brian Li Sung, Orion Assante, Eppy Thatcher, Grendel Prime
| writers = Matt Wagner
| artists =
| pencillers =
| inkers =
| colorists =
| editors =
| creative_team_month =
| creative_team_year =
| creators = [[Matt Wagner]]
}}
'''''Grendel''''' is a long-running series of [[comic book]]s originally created by American author [[Matt Wagner]]. First published in 1982 by [[Comico: The Comic Company|Comico]], Wagner later moved publication of the series to [[Dark Horse Comics|Dark Horse]]. Originally a [[Hardboiled|noir]] comic in the style of European titles such as ''[[Diabolik]]'', it has evolved into, in Wagner's words, a study of the nature of aggression. In 2009, '''Hunter Rose''' (the first '''Grendel''') was ranked as [[IGN]]'s 88th-greatest villain of all time.<ref>[http://comics.ign.com/top-100-villains/88.html "Top Comic Book Villains of All-Time", IGN.com: Hunter Rose is number 88.] {{webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090509065324/http://comics.ign.com/top-100-villains/88.html|date=2009-05-09}}</ref>

== Overview ==
Grendel was the masked identity of Hunter Rose, a successful author. As Grendel, he worked as an assassin before taking control of [[New York City]]'s organized crime. He first appeared in October 1982 in the anthology ''Comico Primer'', and was given his own series in 1983. This was quickly cancelled due to the publisher's financial troubles. Wagner owned the character, however, so he used the opportunity to re-tell the story of Hunter Rose in a far less conventional style in ''Grendel: Devil by the Deed'', serialized as a backup story in Wagner's series ''[[Mage (comics)|Mage]]''; this was subsequently collected as a 48-page one-shot.

There followed an ongoing series which lasted 40 issues. It was written by Wagner and drawn by a variety of artists, including the [[Pander Brothers]], [[Bernie Mireault]], [[Tim Sale (artist)|Tim Sale]], [[John K. Snyder III]] and others. It began with a story set in the near future, with Christine Spar, Hunter's posthumous biographer, assuming the identity of Grendel to pursue a mission of revenge. The identity passed briefly, and tragically, to her deluded boyfriend Brian Li Sung. After a brief return to stories of Hunter Rose (actually two in-universe fictional novels written by Captain Wiggins, a supporting character from the Christine Spar arc), Wagner then spun the series further into the future, with the Grendel identity affecting a variety of people. The name Grendel took on several meanings as the stories portrayed a dystopian future. Grendel became a synonym for The Devil with the title held by the emperor of the world (Grendel-Khan) and members of a warrior society identical to samurai.

The publishing rights languished for several years after [[Comico: The Comic Company|Comico]]'s bankruptcy, but ''Grendel'' resurfaced at [[Dark Horse Comics]] with the ten-part series ''Grendel: War Child'', written by Wagner. Dark Horse subsequently launched ''Grendel Tales'', stories set in the world established by Wagner, created by other writers and artists, including [[Darko Macan]] and [[Edvin Biuković]]. The main story has also continued in novel form, written by [[Greg Rucka]].

In the years since the publishing of ''War Child'', Wagner has occasionally written short stories featuring Hunter Rose. In 2007, he launched an eight-issue [[Limited series (comics)|miniseries]], ''Behold the Devil'', which reveals a secret of the character. In 2019, Wagner released ''Devil's Odyssey'', returning to the dystopian future of Grendel-Prime.

== Publication history ==
===The early stories===
[[Image:GrendelRWB.jpg|thumb|right|200px|'''Hunter Rose''' as Grendel, art by [[Matt Wagner]].]]
''Comico Primer'' #2 (Oct. 1982) contained the first ''Grendel'' story, introducing debonair master-criminal Hunter Rose and his nemesis, Argent the wolf. Grendel soon got his own black-and-white title, published by [[Comico: The Comic Company|Comico]], which lasted three issues. It ended prematurely, mid-story, because of Comico's financial issues.{{Citation needed|date=September 2009}} Wagner considers these stories a "rough draft".{{Citation needed|date=September 2009}} These issues, along with the aforementioned Grendel story from ''Comico Primer'' #2, were collected for the first time ever in the ''Grendel Archives'' collection in 2007, just in time for the 25th anniversary of the publication of the first Grendel story. The collection included an introduction by Wagner explaining the situation which led to the creation of Grendel, and dismissing rumors that he was unhappy to have the early work available.<ref>Cronin, Brian. [http://goodcomics.comicbookresources.com/2008/04/10/comic-book-urban-legends-revealed-150/ Comic Book Urban Legends Revealed #150] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20100728210332/http://goodcomics.comicbookresources.com/2008/04/10/comic-book-urban-legends-revealed-150/|date=2010-07-28}}, 10 April 2008. Retrieved on 3 August 2010.</ref>

===Devil by the Deed===
As a backup story in his other series, ''[[Mage (comics)|Mage]]'' (1984–1986), appearing from issues #6 to 14, Wagner reworked and retold Hunter Rose's story in its entirety. It was collected by Comico in 1986. A new edition, recolored by [[Bernie Mireault]], was published by Dark Horse in 1993. In 2007, it was released in hardcover colored only in black, white, and red. In 2023, a "Master's Edition" was released by Dark Horse, expanding the story from 37 pages to 120.<ref name="masters edition">{{cite news |last=Salmon|first=Will |url=https://www.gamesradar.com/grendel-devil-by-the-deed-masters-edition-reimagines-the-origins-of-matt-wagners-iconic-anti-hero/ |title=Grendel: Devil by the Deed Master's Edition reimagines the origins of Matt Wagner's iconic anti-hero|work=[[GamesRadar+]] |publisher=Future US, Inc. |date=2023-11-21|accessdate=2023-12-04}}</ref>

The story begins with an extraordinarily gifted boy named Eddie. Because victory in his endeavors comes so easily, it all seems meaningless. In despair, he throws a world-championship fencing match and becomes romantically involved with Jocasta Rose, a trainer twice his age. When Jocasta dies, Eddie leaves behind his life and takes on two new identities: Hunter Rose, successful novelist and socialite, and Grendel, elegant costumed assassin and later crime boss. Grendel is hunted relentlessly by Argent, a several hundred year old [[Indigenous peoples of the Americas|Native American]] man-wolf cursed with a thirst for violence. Argent works with the police in an effort to turn his curse to good.

Hunter Rose later adopts Stacy Palumbo, the young daughter of a mobster he killed. Stacy also befriends Argent. Hunter is a loving father to Stacy, but she betrays him to Argent when she discovers that he is Grendel. Grendel and the wolf fight on the roof of a Masonic temple. The battle results in Argent's paralysis and Grendel's death and unmasking. The police discover Stacy's role in this incident and that she murdered a governess to prevent interference with her plan. Developing severe psychological problems, Stacy is committed to a mental hospital until adulthood. After she is released, she marries her psychiatrist, but on their wedding night he rapes her and then commits suicide. The traumatic experience is enough that Stacy returns to institutionalization for the rest of her life. After she returns to the institution, she gives birth to a daughter named Christine Spar.

Christine Spar later publishes a biography of Hunter Rose and his life as Grendel, the source of the excerpts seen throughout the comics, which she entitles "Devil by the Deed". It becomes a bestseller and makes Grendel a pop culture icon.

===Grendel – the series===
The ongoing ''Grendel'' series was published by Comico from 1986 to 1990, with Wagner as writer (and occasionally drawing short story arcs) collaborating with a variety of artists. This series was nominated for an [[Eisner Award]]s for Best Continuing Series, Best Single Issue (#12), earned [[Matt Wagner]] a nomination for Best Writer, and the [[Pander Brothers]] & Jay Geldof a nomination for Best Art Team. The first fifteen issues relate different stories of people who are inspired by their circumstances to assume the identity of Grendel, a choice which seems destined to end in tragedy. There is a recurring idea that these people are influenced by the Grendel identity as if it is a force or entity that chooses to possess them.

==== Issues #1–12: Devil's Legacy ====
[[Image:GrendelDL.jpg|thumb|left|200px|'''Christine Spar''' as Grendel, art by [[Matt Wagner]].]]
A collected edition was published by Comico in 1988. Dark Horse re-published ''Devil's Legacy'', recolored by [[Jeromy Cox]], as a 12-issue miniseries in 2000 and a collected edition in 2002.

The first twelve issues, written and colored by Wagner and drawn by [[Arnold and Jacob Pander]], were set in the near future and told the story of Stacy Palumbo's daughter, Christine Spar. Christine's son Anson is kidnapped by a [[vampire]] [[Kabuki]] dancer, Tujiro XIV. She takes on the identity of Grendel to rescue her child or avenge him, if necessary. The longer she operates as Grendel, Christine's behavior and personality become increasingly violent.

The new Grendel's activities draw the attention of the NYPD, in particular Captain Wiggins, whose cybernetic eye acts as a lie detector. Wiggins enlists the aid of Hunter Rose's arch-enemy Argent. Eventually, Christine and Argent fight, resulting in both of their deaths.

==== Issues #13–15: The Devil Inside ====
Issues #13–15 were written by Wagner, drawn by [[Bernie Mireault]], and colored by Wagner, Mireault and [[Joe Matt]]. A collected edition was published by Comico in 1990. It was republished as a miniseries by Dark Horse in 2001 and a collected edition in 2004.

The story follows directly from ''Devil's Legacy'' and focuses on Brian Li Sung, the stage manager with Tujiro's [[Kabuki]] group who met and romanced Christine Spar during her time as Grendel. After Spar's death, Captain Wiggins hounds Brian. Wiggins believes Brian can lead him to Christine's journals and secrets they hold about Grendel. Brian becomes increasingly confused and irrational, believing the spirit of Grendel is telling him to take action.

Brian finally adopts the Grendel identity and then attempts to murder Wiggins. During the battle, Brian Li Sung's true personality reasserts control and denies the influence of the spirit of Grendel, giving Wiggins the opportunity to shoot and kill him.

==== Issues #16–19: Devil Tracks and Devil Eyes ====
When Bernie Mireault asked Wagner if Grendel could ever inhabit a crowd, Wagner was inspired to re-imagine the whole series. Starting with #16, he broke from the "next person puts on the mask" theme that connected the previous stories and instead had Captain Wiggins relate untold tales of Hunter Rose. ''Devil Tracks'' appeared in ''Grendel'' #16–17; ''Devil Eyes'' appeared in ''Grendel'' #18–19. Both were written and drawn by Wagner. Dark Horse republished them as a two-issue miniseries, ''Grendel Classics: Devil Tracks'' and ''Grendel Classics: Devil Eyes'', in 1995, and collected them as ''Grendel: Devil Tales'' in 1999, now out of print.

The now-retired Captain Wiggins is asked to write about his experiences concerning Brian Li Sung and Christine Spar decades earlier. Not wishing to dredge up old ghosts from his past, Wiggins decides instead to tell stories concerning Hunter Rose, the original Grendel whom he never met. One story centers on NYPD Lt. Lewis Polk, who investigates a diamond smuggling operation supposedly engineered by Rose. Another story told by Wiggins expands on informant Tommy Nuncio, a character briefly mentioned in ''Devil by the Deed''.

====Issues #20–23: The Incubation Years====
These four issues feature one-off stories, each taking place further into the future. They were written by Wagner and drawn by Hannibal King and [[Tim Sale (artist)|Tim Sale]]. According to Dark Horse editor [[Diana Schutz]] and creator Matt Wagner, the original art for issues #20–22 had deteriorated to the point where the issues could not be reprinted. They were eventually reprinted in the third ''Grendel Omnibus''.

After publishing stories of Hunter Rose (the same stories featured in issues #16–19), Captain Wiggins has become wealthy and famous. Christine Spar's earlier biography of Hunter Rose made Grendel a pop culture icon and now Wiggins's work has revived interest in the figure, making him a household name once more.

Wiggins then becomes concerned when the vision in his cybernetic eye becomes distorted, making others (including his new young wife) appear as grotesque caricatures. Physicians conclude the distortion is a result of stress brought on by newfound celebrity. Wiggins concludes that his lie-detector eye has become enhanced and now reveals the true ugliness of the world and that he is surrounded by greedy, shallow people who covet his fame and wealth. As his anger and paranoia increase, Wiggins is finally enraged by his wife's nagging and murders her. After his rage subsides, he calmly waits for the police to arrest him.

The following three issues are more experimental than previous issues of the series, depicting the growth of the concept of Grendel from pop-culture villain to synonym for Satan, against a background of political upheaval, social breakdown, nuclear war and environmental catastrophe. Over the four issues, it is made implicit that 'Grendel' is indeed a malevolent spirit and he acts as the narrator, mocking the frailties of the characters and explaining how their actions benefit him.

==== Issues #24–33: God and the Devil ====
[[Image:GrendelGD.jpg|thumb|right|200px|'''Eppy Thatcher''' as Grendel, art by [[John K. Snyder III]].]]

''God and the Devil'', written by Wagner, drawn by [[John K. Snyder III]] and Jay Geldhof and colored by Joe Matt, ran in ''Grendel'' #24–33 and takes place during the 26th century. It was republished as a ten-issue miniseries, recolored by Jeromy Cox, by Dark Horse in 2003. A trade-paper collection of all 10 issues was published in 2008.

In the 26th century, much of Earth is contaminated and unfit for life. America is fragmented into a number of corporate "systems" dominated by a corrupt Catholic Church, now based in "Vatican Ouest" in [[Colorado]] and led by [[Pope]] Innocent XLII, who is greedily taxing resources to build a huge, ostentatious tower. Unknown to the public, Pope Innocent XLII is actually the vampire Tujiro, who centuries ago inspired Christine Spar to become the second Grendel and whose associate Brian Li Sung became the third Grendel. The true purpose of the Pope's new tower is not pride but to house a weapon called the Sun Gun, which will block sunlight from reaching Earth.

Orion Assante, a corporate auditor and wealthy aristocrat, tries to work within the system to stem the Church's financial corruption. Meanwhile, a factory worker named Eppy Thatcher becomes corrupted by a designer drug called Grendel. Convinced that God hates him and fueled by the drug, Thatcher becomes the new Grendel and acts as an anti-Church terrorist. Orion Assante feels his efforts to fight the Vatican's corruption are overshadowed by this terrorist who uses a blasphemous costume and alias (as ''Grendel'' has now long been associated as another name for the Devil).

To combat this threat, the Church establishes a second Inquisition. Pellon Cross, head of the mercenary Confederacy Of Police (COP), is hired to provide added security. Tujiro uses Cross to retrieve materials needed to complete the Sun Gun. As an afterthought, he turns Cross into a vampire servant.

As the story goes on, Orion Assante is driven to desperation following the deaths of his loved ones and leads a private army to destroy the Sun Gun. Pellon Cross escapes Tujiro's clutches and turns a number of his fellow COPs into vampires, enlisting their allegiance against the Pope. Thatcher, Pellon's vampires and Orion's army all attack the Vatican tower and it is destroyed before the Sun Gun is activated. Tujiro and Thatcher apparently perish in the process.

==== Issues #34–40: Devil's Reign ====
[[Image:GrendelDR.jpg|thumb|left|200px|'''Orion Assante''', the first Grendel-Khan, art by [[Tim Sale (artist)|Tim Sale]].]]

''Devil's Reign'', written by Wagner, drawn by Sale and colored by Mireault, ran in ''Grendel'' #34–40. ''Grendel'' went on what was intended to be temporary hiatus, but Comico's subsequent bankruptcy meant instead that this story was now the close of the series. It was republished as a seven-issue miniseries, recolored by [[Matt Hollingsworth]], by Dark Horse in 2004. A trade-paper collection of all seven issues was released in 2008. It follows the events of ''God and the Devil'', taking place in the 26th century.

Following the destruction of the Church, much of society crumbles. A community of vampires, led by Pellon Cross, establishes itself in the sovereign nation of [[Las Vegas, Nevada|VEGAS]]. Orion Assante, using his corporate connections and private wealth, gradually restores order through use of his army and a broadcasting network, both called ''Orion's Sword''. For his role in bringing down the Church, Orion is nicknamed ''Grendel'' by others.

In securing its borders, the newly united North America absorbs South America, Central America and Australia, presenting these conquests as corporate mergers. Other world powers, including [[China]], [[Japan]] and [[Africa]], are alarmed.

On a state visit to Africa, the world's only remaining nuclear power, Orion's wife Sherri Caniff is abducted by an African nationalist faction. Suspecting African government involvement, Orion sends forces to simultaneously seize the nuclear [[missile silo|silos]] and free Sherri. Once in control of Africa, Orion discovers that Japan was behind the kidnapping. A state of [[cold war]] develops, with corresponding military build-up.

The unauthorized conquests of territories in [[Asia]] by a renegade general brings Orion's Sword to the borders of China. The formerly aloof superpower then allies with Japan and global war results. The war does not go well for Orion, as his forces are overstretched and suffer many setbacks and defeats. In the midst of this, Sherri Caniff dies of cancer.

Orion comes to believe he is actually possessed by the devil, by the spirit of Grendel. He disappears from public life and tracks down Eppy Thatcher, who is alive, hiding in the sewers beneath Vegas. Interrogating Eppy, Orion has an inspiration. Adapting the technology of Tujiro's sun gun, Orion develops a new weapon called the Sun-Disk and devastates Japan. China surrenders, making Orion Assante ruler of Earth, Orion I.

Embracing his originally derogatory nickname, Assante names his personal troops ''Grendels'', the title now indicative of high-status and respect. As their leader, Orion I adopts the title of ''Grendel-Khan''. The spirit of Grendel has, in effect, conquered the world. To ensure he has an heir to the world he's built, and unwilling to trust anyone else to do it for him, he uses advanced technology to impregnate himself and gives birth to a son, Jupiter.

Each part of the main story is presented as a history text written by Assante's stepdaughter and panels with the characters are presented like archived footage. A more traditional approach was done on the backup strips, which depicted the history of the vampire community as a counterpoint to Assante's rise.

===Silverback===
In 1989 ''Silverback'', a three-issue miniseries written by Wagner and [[William Messner-Loebs]] and drawn by Messner-Loebs and John Peck, told the story of Argent the wolf's origin in a tale based on [[Native American mythology]]. Wagner has said that, due to problems with the original source material, which has deteriorated over time, it is unlikely that this will ever be collected or reprinted in any way.

===Devil's Whisper===
The short piece ''Devil's Whisper'' was published in 1989 in ''[[A1 (comics)#Book 4|A1 Book 4]]''. It was written by [[James Dale Robinson|James Robinson]] and drawn by [[D'Israeli (cartoonist)|D'Israeli]]. The story takes place in between issues #15 and 16, and concerns Captain Wiggins briefly wearing Brian Li Sung's Grendel mask.

===War Child===
[[Image:GrendelWC.jpg|thumb|right|200px|'''Grendel-Prime''', art by [[Matt Wagner]].]]
As ''Devil's Reign'' came to a close, Wagner thought of an idea for a new storyline, which was intended to run as ''Grendel'' #41–50, after a brief publishing hiatus. Before that could happen, though, Comico went bankrupt.<ref>"Comico Suspends Operations", ''The Comics Journal'' #138 (October 1990), p. 8.</ref><ref>"Newswatch: ''Grendel'' to Get New Home?", ''The Comics Journal'' #145 (October 1991), p. 28.</ref> Finally, after Wagner regained the publishing rights, ''Grendel: War Child'' saw print in 1992 as a 10-issue miniseries from Dark Horse, written by Wagner, drawn by Patrick McEown and colored by Mireault. A collected edition was published in 1994.

Ten years after the death of Orion I, his son [[Jupiter]] is kidnapped from his home/prison at a base in the Dakota Black Hills by a lone Grendel in full black body armor. This Grendel is known to others as the ''paladin'', and later adopts the name of Grendel-Prime. Orion's widow Laurel Kennedy, now regent, sends the empire's elite soldiers known as Red Devils after the renegade Grendel and his hostage. In the process of her rulership, Laurel further neglects and alienates her daughter Crystal.

Jupiter and the Grendel paladin flee to the jungles of Africa. Along the way, they cross wastelands, ruined cities and oceans, encountering not only the Red Devils but also bandits, mutants, pirates, dangerous wildlife, and other Grendels (both friend and foe). In the OPEC wastes, Grendel and Jupiter are captured by a band of rebels opposed to Laurel Kennedy. Grendel-Prime is disassembled and revealed as a solar-powered cyborg created by Orion I to protect Jupiter from political manipulators until he is old enough to assume the throne of the Grendel-[[Khan (title)|Khan]].

Jupiter is abducted from the rebel base by a group of vampires who take him to their lair in Siberia. The rebels and their charismatic leader, Azif a-Barouk, accompany Grendel-Prime to rescue the boy. Grendel-Prime slays the vampires' lord in the process—who turns out to be none other than Orion Assante's old foe, Pellon Cross.

Laurel Kennedy's rule is undermined by the lack of an heir, so she decides to arrange a suitable dynastic marriage for her daughter. But Crystal is having a secret affair with her Grendel guard, Susan Veraghen. Rather than be forced into marriage, Crystal escapes the Black Hills complex and flees into the wilderness. Laurel becomes increasingly irrational, and effective rule of the empire passes to her [[minister (government)|minister]], Abner Heath.

Ten years later, Laurel Kennedy is quietly displaced and imprisoned by Abner Heath, who becomes the acting leader of Earth. To hold the empire together, Heath wants to activate the Sun-Disc, Orion's most formidable weapon, but meets with continual failure. Finally, Jupiter (now a young man) and Grendel-Prime act against the empire. Grendel-Prime and his team capture the Imperial palace and Jupiter raids the Black Hills complex, encountering his now frail and sickly mother. It is discovered that the missing component of the Sun-Disk is contained within the body of Grendel-Prime. He activates the weapon and destroys the government's broadcasting satellites, enabling Jupiter to take over the airwaves and announce his succession. After Jupiter's coronation, Grendel-Prime takes his leave of Jupiter and disappears into the wastelands.

===Batman/Grendel I===
A two-part [[Batman]]/Grendel crossover, ''Devil's Riddle'' and ''Devil's Masque'', was written and drawn by Wagner and colored by Wagner at the time of the Comico series, but was delayed by Comico's bankruptcy. It was finally published by DC in 1993.<ref>"''Batman/Grendel'' Series Moving Ahead", ''The Comics Journal'' #158 (April 1993), pp. 26.</ref>

The story assumes that Hunter Rose and Batman live in the same fictional universe and are contemporaries. Bored with Argent the wolf and the NYPD, Hunter Rose comes to [[Gotham City]] to challenge Batman (as the city's protector) to stop him before he commits an audacious crime. Rose becomes increasingly impressed with Batman but is still able to accomplish his crime, although Batman's interference proves to be more trouble than Rose expected. Grendel unintentionally endangers a child and indirectly causes the death of someone Grendel did not consider an enemy. Grendel and Batman's final battle results in a broken arm for the assassin who barely escapes Gotham.

Returning to New York, Hunter Rose concludes that he should be satisfied with the challenges provided by Argent the wolf and the NYPD rather than risk further challenging the Batman and attracting his notice. Hunter Rose says that Batman is not a wolf but a tiger, indicating the hero is too dangerous and too much like himself to risk making a true enemy.

Although this story can be seen as out of continuity, Hunter Rose is depicted with a broken arm in the "Devil's Advocate" short, featured in ''Grendel: Black, White, & Red''.

===''Grendel Tales''===
''Grendel Tales'' is an irregular series of stories by other writers and artists set in the world Wagner had created. It was intended to follow the original comic series, but Comico's bankruptcy derailed this plan (''Grendel'' #40 did contain a short story by [[Steven T. Seagle]] and [[Ho Che Anderson]], starting this idea). ''Grendel Tales'' finally began in 1993, published by Dark Horse as a series of miniseries.
* ''Four Devils, One Hell'' by [[James Dale Robinson|James Robinson]] and [[Teddy Kristiansen]] (1993): This story features the skull of Hunter Rose. The skull has a hole in the forehead, though it is not explained in the story why this is. The reason is revealed in the 1996 Batman/Grendel [[Crossover (fiction)|crossover]].
* ''Devil's Hammer'' by Rob Walton (1994)
* ''The Devil in Our Midst'' by Steven T. Seagle and [[Paul Grist (comics)|Paul Grist]] (1994)
* ''Devils and Deaths'' by [[Darko Macan]] and [[Edvin Biuković]] (1994)
* ''Homecoming'' by Patrick McEown (1994)
* ''Devil's Choices'' by Darko Macan and Edvin Biuković (1995)
* ''The Devil May Care'' by [[Terry Laban]] and [[Peter Doherty (comics)|Peter Doherty]] (1995)
* ''The Devil's Apprentice'' by Jeffrey Lang and [[Steve Lieber]] (1997)

===Devil Quest===
Wagner wrote and painted a series of short stories as backups in ''Grendel Tales'', starting in 1994 and collected in 1995. A hardcover collection of the story was released in June 2008.

Set 104 years after ''War Child'', these back-up stories feature the Grendel-Khan, Jupiter Assante III, as he attempts to find Grendel-Prime in the wastelands. The cyborg, disillusioned by the decadence of the world, is attempting a bloody experiment/ritual to contact the soul of Hunter Rose, his namesake.

The ritual seems to work and Grendel-Prime disappears. He later reappears some distance away, badly damaged. What happened when he vanished and why he was damaged was not explained until 1996 with the publication of the second Batman/Grendel crossover.

===Grendel Cycle===
In 1995, ''Grendel Cycle'' was published. It is a 64-page recap of Grendel's history, written by Matt Wagner and with art pulled from issues of the original series. It also contains an all-new 8-page primer, written and painted by Wagner, showcasing various characters and events from the series; a timeline of the Grendel legacy, giving some new information about the characters; and a cover gallery for the 40-issue Comico series and the ''War Child'' miniseries.

===Batman/Grendel II===
The second two-part Batman/Grendel crossover, titled ''Devil's Bones'' and ''Devil's Dance'', was published in 1996. It tied directly into events from ''Devil Quest''. A collection of both Batman/Grendel stories was released in hardcover (limited to only 300 copies) and paperback in April 2008.

In the present day, a museum in Gotham City is holding an exhibition of famous murderers, including as its prize exhibit the bones of Hunter Rose, the assassin and crime lord Grendel. In the 26th century, Grendel-Prime's experiment in the story ''Devil Quest'' sends him back in time. In the present day, Grendel-Prime materializes in the Gotham City museum, drawn by the "true skull" of his namesake Hunter Rose. With the aid of a kidnapped WayneTech engineer, Grendel-Prime builds a device that will return him to the 26th century and kill thousands in the process, a blood sacrifice to enable contact with Hunter Rose's soul. Batman prevents Grendel-Prime from carrying out the sacrifice.

===''Black, White and Red'' and ''Red, White and Black''===
Wagner returned to Hunter Rose in 1998 with a four-issue miniseries, ''Grendel: Black, White and Red'', featuring short stories drawn by an array of artists. As the title suggests, the stories were drawn in black and white with red spot-color. A second series, ''Grendel: Red, White and Black'', followed in 2002. Some of the artists included [[D'Israeli (cartoonist)|D'Israeli]], [[Duncan Fegredo]], [[David W. Mack|David Mack]], [[Mike Allred]], [[Teddy Kristiansen]], [[Woodrow Phoenix]], [[Chris Sprouse]], [[Stan Sakai]], [[Jill Thompson]], [[Kelley Jones]], [[Andi Watson]], [[Ashley Wood]] and [[Michael Zulli]] and [http://www.drawstanley.com Stan Shaw].

The collected versions of these two limited series also contain several short Grendel stories Wagner had published over the years, such as "Devil's Vagary" (a 16-page one-shot from the ''Comico Collection'' slipcase), "The Devil's Week" (from ''A Decade of Dark Horse'' #1), "Midnight Looms" [Scared of the Devil] (from ''Dark Horse Extra'' #49–50), and "Devils Duel" (from ''Dark Horse Maverick'' 2001).

===Devil Child===
In 1999 a two-part series, ''Grendel: Devil Child'', written by [[Diana Schutz]] and drawn by Tim Sale, told the harrowing story of Stacy Palumbo and the birth of her daughter, Christine Spar. A hardcover collection of the story was released in June 2008.

=== Past Prime ===
In 2000, ''Grendel: Past Prime'', a [[novel]] written by [[Greg Rucka]] with illustrations by Wagner, was published, following the adventures of Grendel-Prime and Susan Veraghen after the assassination of Jupiter I.


=== Behold the Devil ===
In July 2007, Dark Horse debuted the new Hunter Rose series ''Grendel: Behold the Devil'' with a 50¢ #0 issue. This was released during 2007, the 25th anniversary of Grendel. The first issue hit comic stands in November. The series ran eight issues (nine including #0).

=== Sympathy from the Devil ===
In October 2011, Grendel appeared in the [[CBLDF]]'s fundraising Liberty Annual in a story addressing the book's "[[It Gets Better]]" theme.

=== Grendel vs. The Shadow ===
Dark Horse and [[Dynamite Comics]] published a three-issue prestige format series featuring a team-up with Grendel and [[The Shadow]] entitled ''Grendel vs. The Shadow'', starting in September 2014, written and drawn by Matt Wagner.

=== Devil's Odyssey ===
Dark Horse published a new eight-issue miniseries, ''Devil's Odyssey'', written and drawn by Matt Wagner. The series premiered in October 2019 and features the further adventures of Grendel Prime as he searches for a planet to be a new home for humanity.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.cbr.com/grendel-matt-wagner-2019/|title=EXCLUSIVE: Matt Wagner's Grendel Returns in 2019|date=14 March 2019}}</ref> After a year long delay, due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the final issue was published in July 2021 and a collection was published the same year in December.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.darkhorse.com/Books/3004-307/Grendel-Devils-Odyssey-HC|title=Grendel: Devil's Odyssey HC :: Profile :: Dark Horse Comics}}</ref>

=== Devil's Crucible ===
An upcoming trilogy of four-issue mini-series was announced at the end of ''Devil's Odyssey'': ''Devil's Crucible - Defiance'', ''Devil's Crucible - Sedition'' and ''Devil's Crucible - Necrotic''.

===Omnibus collections===
{| class="wikitable"
|-
! Title
! Material collected
! Release Date
! ISBN
|-
| '''Vol. 1 – Hunter Rose'''
| ''Grendel: Devil by the Deed 25th Anniversary Edition'', ''Grendel: Black, White & Red #1–4'', ''Grendel: Red, White & Black #1–4'', ''Grendel: Behold the Devil'', stories from ''Comico Collection'', ''Decade: A Dark Horse Short Story Collection'', issues #49–50 of ''Dark Horse Extra'', ''Dark Horse Maverick 2001'', and ''Liberty Annual 2011''
| August 2012
| {{ISBNT|978-1-59582-893-4}}
|-
| '''Vol. 2 – The Legacy'''
| ''Grendel: Devil Tales'', ''Grendel: Devil Child'', ''Grendel: Devil's Legacy'', and ''Grendel: The Devil Inside''
| December 2012
| {{ISBNT|978-1-59582-894-1}}
|-
| '''Vol. 3 – Orion's Reign'''
| ''Grendel: Incubation Years'', ''Grendel: God and the Devil'', and ''Grendel: Devil's Reign''
| June 2013
| {{ISBNT|978-1-59582-895-8}}
|-
| '''Vol. 4 – Prime'''
| ''War Child'', ''Devil Quest'', and ''Past Prime''
| December 2013
| {{ISBNT|978-1-59582-896-5}}
|-
| '''Grendel Tales Vol. 1'''
| ''Devil Worship''; ''Four Devils, One Hell''; ''Devil's Hammer''; ''The Devil in our Midst''; and ''Devils and Death''
| August 2017
| {{ISBNT|978-1-5067-0328-2}}
|-
| '''Grendel Tales Vol. 2'''
| ''Homecoming''; ''Devil's Choice''; ''The Devil May Care''; and ''The Devil's Apprentice''
| January 2018
| {{ISBNT|978-1-5067-0329-9}}
|}

==Reception==
Martin A. Stever reviewed ''Grendel'' in ''[[The Space Gamer|Space Gamer/Fantasy Gamer]]'' No. 83.<ref name="SG">{{cite journal|last=Stever|first=Martin A.|date=October–November 1988|title=The Ruler|journal=[[The Space Gamer|Space Gamer/Fantasy Gamer]]|publisher=[[3W (company)|World Wide Wargames]]|issue=83|pages=29}}</ref> Stever commented that "this is one of the most exciting, dynamic, and unusual comic books ever conceived".<ref name="SG"/>

==In other media==
[[Netflix]] announced in September 2021 a television series adaptation with [[Andrew Dabb]] as showrunner and Abubakr Ali cast as Hunter Rose / Grendel. Other actors would have included [[Jaime Ray Newman]] as Jocasta Rose, [[Julian Black Antelope]] as Argent, [[Madeline Zima]] as Liz Sparks, [[Kevin Corrigan]] as Barry Palumbo, Emma Ho as Stacy Palumbo, [[Erik Palladino]] as Teddy Ciccone, [[Brittany Allen]] as Annabelle Wright and [[Andy Mientus]] as Larry Stohler.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://deadline.com/2021/09/netflix-orders-grendel-series-dark-horse-comic-abubakr-ali-cast-1234832350/|title=Netflix Orders 'Grendel' Series Based On Dark Horse Comic With Abubakr Ali To Star, 8 More Cast|website=Deadline|last=Del Rosario|first=Alexandria|date=September 14, 2021|access-date=September 14, 2021}}</ref> One year later Netflix was no longer moving ahead with the project, with the producers shopping the show elsewhere.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Andreeva |first=Nellie |date=2022-09-27 |title='Grendel' Series Not Going Forward At Netflix, Could Be Shopped Elsewhere |url=https://deadline.com/2022/09/grendel-series-dead-netflix-shopped-dark-horse-1235128098/ |access-date=2022-09-27 |website=Deadline |language=en-US}}</ref>

==References==
{{reflist}}

==External links==
* [https://web.archive.org/web/20071130002051/http://www.comixology.com/podcasts/7/Grendel-with-Matt-Wagner Podcast] with Matt Wagner on Grendel's 25th Anniversary
* [http://toonopedia.com/grendel.htm Grendel] at [[Don Markstein's Toonopedia]]. [https://archive.today/20240527224847/https://www.webcitation.org/6kBaxc51Q?url=http://toonopedia.com/grendel.htm Archived] from the original on September 1, 2016.
* [http://grendel.es/ Grendel FAQ]
* [https://web.archive.org/web/20091027045832/http://www.geocities.com/wmnoe/grendel.html The Devil's Catalog]

[[Category:1982 comics debuts]]
[[Category:Comico Comics titles]]
[[Category:Dark Horse Comics characters]]
[[Category:Dark Horse Comics titles]]
[[Category:Eisner Award winners for Best Limited Series]]
[[Category:Comics by Matt Wagner]]
[[Category:Comics characters with superhuman strength]]
[[Category:Crime comics]]
[[Category:Fictional cyborgs]]
[[Category:Fictional mercenaries in comics]]
[[Category:Fictional bodyguards]]
[[Category:Fictional criminals in comics]]
[[Category:Fictional serial killers]]
[[Category:Fictional swordfighters in comics]]
[[Category:Fictional writers]]
[[Category:Comics characters introduced in 1982]]
[[Category:Vigilante characters in comics]]

Evangeline (comics)

2025-05-13T01:33:29Z

141.136.167.114:

{{Short description|Comic book series}}
{{Infobox comic book title | 
| title = Evangeline
| image = Evangeline Guns Of Mars Cover.jpg
| caption = ''Guns of Mars'', cover by [[Judith Hunt]] and [[Ricardo Villagran]].
| schedule =
| format =
| publisher = [[Comico: The Comic Company|Comico Comics]] [[Lodestone Comics]] [[First Comics]]
| date = 1984–1989
| issues =
| main_char_team = Evangeline Johnny Six Cardinal Szn
| writers = Chuck Dixon and Judith Hunt
| artists =
| pencillers = Judith Hunt
| inkers = [[Ricardo Villagran]]
| colorists =
| letterers = Ed J. King
| editors =
| creative_team_month =
| creative_team_year =
| creators = [[Chuck Dixon]] and [[Judith Hunt]]
}}
'''''Evangeline''''' is a 1980s comic book co-created and written initially by then-husband and wife team [[Chuck Dixon]] and [[Judith Hunt]], with pencils by Hunt and inks by [[Ricardo Villagran]]. Letters were by cartoonist and letterer Ed King of the ''[[Star Wars]]'' comic strip.

The art for the first few issues of ''Evangeline'' was unusual for the time period, in that it was not printed using process color, but instead each page was hand-painted by Hunt and then color separated. This method was introduced by the newly formed independent comic companies and was encouraged by the cheaper printing methods of the 1980s. Cover paintings were also illustrated by Hunt and Villagran.

The title character has been described as "a sexy killer vigilante [[nun]]" taking her instructions directly from her mentor, '''Cardinal Szn''', a politically powerful figure in the hierarchy of the Roman Curia/[[Roman Curia|Vatican]] during the 23rd-century. Co-creator Hunt however would describe her skilled but naive [[feminist]] character as created "to explore the infinite conflict between good and evil and the powerful religions which would be involved in manipulating the politics and economics of the future".

== Publication history ==
A short introductory story in [[Comico: The Comic Company|Comico]]'s ''Primer'' #6, and two issues, ''Guns of Mars'' (loosely based on the [[Spaghetti Western]] film genre) and ''Hate Boat'', were published by [[Comico: The Comic Company|Comico Comics]] in 1984. An ownership dispute in 1985<ref>"''Evangeline'' Caught in Ownership Dispute", ''The Comics Journal'' #97 (April 1985), pp. 13–14.</ref> led to ''Evangeline'' leaving Comico, resulting in a 1986 special from [[Lodestone Comics]] that reprinted the two Comico issues with additional pages bridging the stories (an epilogue to ''Guns of Mars'' and a prologue to "Dinosaur Farm" from the First Comics series), and then a 12-issue run from 1987 to 1989 published by [[First Comics]].<ref name="changes">"Changes at Comico: ''Evangeline'' and ''Next Man'' Out, ''Elementals'' In", ''The Comics Journal'' #103 (November 1985), pp. 11–12.</ref> Hunt co-wrote and illustrated only the first few issues of the First Comics series, leaving to pursue her design and illustration licensing work for HA! [[Henson Associates]] and Macmillan Publishing on ''[[Raggedy Ann and Andy]]''. In an interview with the ''[[Comics Buyer's Guide]]'', Judith Hunt said that (after she left), "the comic ''[Evangeline]'' lost its original complexity and feminist standpoint and became just another excuse for depictions of gratuitous sex and violence".

The first three issues were made available at EvangelineTheComic.com, with announced-but-delayed plans to continue with new material which would continue on after issue #3, not following the continuity of the later First Comics issues. The announced writer for the new material was Ben Dixon, Chuck Dixon & Hunt's son, with announced art by Hunt for one story. No new material was added to the website after January 2009, and the "News" section has not been updated since July the same year. As of 2016, the site is gone.

== Cultural references ==
The [[Matthew Sweet]] album, ''[[Girlfriend (Matthew Sweet album)|Girlfriend]]'', featured a song titled "Evangeline", sung from the point of view of character Johnny Six.

== References ==
{{reflist}}

== External links ==
* {{official website|https://web.archive.org/web/20160303194128/http://www.evangelinethecomic.com/}}

{{DEFAULTSORT:Evangeline (Comics)}}
[[Category:Comico Comics titles]]
[[Category:First Comics titles]]
[[Category:1984 comics debuts]]
[[Category:1989 comics endings]]
[[Category:Feminist comics]]
[[Category:Action-adventure comics]]
[[Category:Science fiction comics]]
[[Category:Comics about women]]
[[Category:Comics set in the 23rd century]]
[[Category:Comics characters introduced in 1984]]
[[Category:Vigilante characters in comics]]

Alien Encounters (comics)

2025-05-13T01:19:41Z

141.136.167.114:

{{Use mdy dates|date=September 2023}}
{{Infobox comic book title| 
|image = AlienEncounters.jpg
|caption = Cover to [[Eclipse Comics]]' ''Alien Encounters'' #1, art by [[Joe Chiodo]].
|schedule =
|format = [[One-shot (comics)|One-shot]] (FantaCo) [[Ongoing series|Ongoing]] (Eclipse Comics)
|SciFi = y
|publisher = [[FantaCo Enterprises]] [[Eclipse Comics]]
|date = January [[1981 in comics|1981]] (FantaCo) June [[1985 in comics|1985]] - August [[1987 in comics|1987]] (Eclipse Comics)
|issues = 1 (FantaCo) 14 (Eclipse Comics)
|main_char_team =
|artists =
|pencillers =
|inkers =
|letterers =
|colorists =
|editors =
|TPB =
|ISBN =
|subcat = FantaCo Enterprises
|addpubcat1 = Eclipse Comics titles
|sort = Alien Encounters
}}
'''''Alien Encounters''''' is an American [[science fiction]] [[comics anthology|anthology]] [[comic book]] published by [[FantaCo Enterprises]] and then [[Eclipse Comics]]. The comic debuted with FantaCo in 1981, and in 1985 was taken over by Eclipse.

==Publication history==
The original FantaCo ''Alien Encounters'' was a 36-page 1981 [[One-shot (comics)|one-shot]] black-and-white comic containing short, self-contained stories by [[Steve Bissette]], [[Steve Stiles]], [[Fred Hembeck]], [[Mike Zeck]] and [[Howard Cruse]], among others.<ref>{{cite journal|year=1981|title=The Comics Journal|journal=[[The Comics Journal]]|publisher=[[Fantagraphics Books]]|page=58|issue=#65}}</ref> After [[Pacific Comics]] went bankrupt in 1984, their titles were taken over by Eclipse Comics, including [[Bruce Jones (comics)|Bruce Jones]]' ''[[Alien Worlds]]'', a similar science fiction-themed anthology. They decided to replace ''Alien Worlds'' with a new title that would feature a wider range of creators,<ref name=AH064NF>{{cite magazine|date=February 1, 1985|title=Newsflashes|magazine=[[Amazing Heroes]]|publisher=[[Fantagraphics|Redbeard, Inc]]|number=64}}</ref> and purchased the rights to the ''Alien Encounters'' title from FantaCo, with [[Ken Steacy]] designing the new series' logo.<ref name=AH066NF>{{cite magazine|date=March 1, 1985|title=Newsflashes|magazine=[[Amazing Heroes]]|publisher=[[Fantagraphics|Redbeard, Inc]]|number=66}}</ref>

Eclipse's version was a similarly sized [[bimonthly]] [[ongoing series]] edited by [[Cat Yronwode]], and would run for 14 issues from June 1985 to August 1987; it was effectively replaced by a short-lived irregular revival of ''Alien Worlds''.<ref name=AH118NL>{{cite magazine|date=June 1, 1987|title=Newsline|magazine=[[Amazing Heroes]]|publisher=[[Fantagraphics Books]]|number=118}}</ref><ref name=AH131NL>{{cite magazine|date=December 15, 1987|title=Newsline|magazine=[[Amazing Heroes]]|publisher=[[Fantagraphics Books]]|number=131}}</ref> Creators who worked on the Eclipse series included Bissette, Cruse, Jones,<ref name=AH101NL>{{cite magazine|date=August 15, 1986|title=Newsline|magazine=[[Amazing Heroes]]|publisher=[[Fantagraphics Books]]|number=101}}</ref> Zeck, [[Ray Bradbury]], [[John Bolton (comics)|John Bolton]],<ref name=AH064NF/> [[Joe Chiodo]],<ref name=AH064NF/> [[Richard Corben]],<ref name=AH082NF>{{cite magazine|date=October 15, 1985|title=Newsflashes|magazine=[[Amazing Heroes]]|publisher=[[Fantagraphics Books]]|number=82}}</ref> [[Chuck Dixon]], [[Gardner F. Fox]],<ref name=AH082NF/> [[Rick Geary]], [[Peter Ledger]], [[David Lloyd (comic artist)|David Lloyd]], [[David Mazzucchelli]], [[Gray Morrow]], [[Ray Nelson (author)|Ray Nelson]], [[Timothy Truman]]<ref name=AH082NF/> and [[Thomas Yeates]]. The title featured painted [[pulp magazine]]-inspired covers by a variety of artists.

==Reception==
''Alien Encounters'' was sometimes criticized for featuring gratuitous nude scenes.<ref name="PEB">{{cite web|url=http://peb.pl/komiksy/509763-mf-alien-encounters.html|title=Background of Alien Encounters #01-14|work=peb.pl|accessdate=2009-04-19|archiveurl= https://web.archive.org/web/20090403065119/http://peb.pl/komiksy/509763-mf-alien-encounters.html|archivedate=3 April 2009|url-status= live}}</ref> Reviewing the fourth issue for ''[[Amazing Heroes]]'', R.A. Jones was largely unimpressed by the lack of originality shown by the contents.<ref name=AH088AE>{{cite magazine|date=February 1, 1986|title=Comics in Review|author=R.A. Jones|magazine=[[Amazing Heroes]]|publisher=[[Fantagraphics Books]]|number=88}}</ref>

==Other media==
The story "Nada" by [[Ray Nelson (author)|Ray Nelson]] and [[Bill Wray]], from ''Alien Encounters'' #6 (April 1986), was an adaptation of the story "Eight O'Clock in the Morning" by Nelson that was the inspiration for the 1988 [[John Carpenter]] film ''[[They Live]]''.<ref name= "Swires, Steve">{{cite news | last = Swires | first = Steve | title = John Carpenter and the Invasion of the Yuppie Snatchers | work = | pages = 37–40; 43 | language = | publisher = [[Starlog]] | date = November 1988}}</ref>

==References==
{{Reflist}}

==External links==
* {{gcdb series|id=18766|title=Alien Encounters ''(1981 series)''}}
* {{gcdb series|id=3072|title=Alien Encounters ''(1985 series)''}}

{{Eclipse Comics}}

[[Category:1981 comics debuts]]
[[Category:1981 comics endings]]
[[Category:1985 comics debuts]]
[[Category:1987 comics endings]]
[[Category:Comics anthologies]]
[[Category:Comics publications]]
[[Category:Defunct American comics]]
[[Category:Eclipse Comics titles]]
[[Category:FantaCo Enterprises titles]]
[[Category:Science fiction comics]]

{{comics-stub}}

Alien Worlds

2025-05-13T01:15:33Z

141.136.167.114:

{{Short description|Science Fiction comic anthology}}
{{Other uses|Alien Worlds (disambiguation)}}
{{italic title}}
{{Infobox comic book title| 
|image = AlienWorlds.jpg
|caption = The cover of ''Alien Worlds'' #6, art by [[Frank Brunner]].
|schedule = Bimonthly
|format = Anthology
|publisher = [[Pacific Comics]] 1982-1984 [[Eclipse Comics]] 1984-1988
|date = December 1982 – May 1988
|issues = 10
|main_char_team =
|writers = Bruce Jones
|artists =
|pencillers =
|inkers =
|letterers =
|colorists =
|creative_team_month =
|creative_team_year =
|creators = [[Bruce Jones (comics)|Bruce Jones]]
}}

'''''Alien Worlds''''' is an American [[science fiction comics|science fiction]] [[comics anthology|anthology]] comic that was published by [[Pacific Comics]] and then [[Eclipse Comics]] between 1982 and 1985. It was edited by [[Bruce Jones (comics)|Bruce Jones]] and his partner April Campbell.<ref name=BC>Johnston, Rich. [https://bleedingcool.com/comics/recent-updates/diamond-comic-distributors-censor/ "When Diamond Comic Distributors Flexed Its Censorial Muscles..."], ''Bleeding Cool'' (December 29, 2018).</ref> It was a sister title to Jones' horror anthology ''[[Twisted Tales]]''.

==Publication history==
''Alien Worlds'' was published on a bi-monthly schedule by [[Pacific Comics]] from December 1982 to April 1984 for eight issues, with a single issue of spin-off ''Three Dimensional Alien Worlds'' published in July 1984. After Pacific went bankrupt, two final issues were published by [[Eclipse Comics]] in November 1984 and January 1985.<ref name=AH064NF>{{cite magazine|date=February 1, 1985|title=Newsflashes|magazine=[[Amazing Heroes]]|publisher=[[Fantagraphics|Redbeard, Inc]]|number=64}}</ref> Eclipse considered continuing the title but instead opted to create ''[[Alien Encounters (comics)|Alien Encounters]]'' with a variety of writers.<ref name=AH066NF>{{cite magazine|date=March 1, 1985|title=Newsflashes|magazine=[[Amazing Heroes]]|publisher=[[Fantagraphics|Redbeard, Inc]]|number=66}}</ref> Instead Jones took ''Alien Worlds'' to [[Blackthorne Publishing]], who produced a [[One-shot (comics)|one-shot]] featuring reprints of stories taken from earlier issues. In 1987 Eclipse struck a deal with Jones & Campbell's new packaging operation Bruce Jones Associates for new prestige format bi-annual versions of ''Alien World'', cancelling ''Alien Encounters'' to make room. Only a single issue of the new format was produced.<ref name=AH123NL>{{cite magazine|date=August 15, 1987|title=Newsline|magazine=[[Amazing Heroes]]|publisher=[[Fantagraphics Books]]|number=123}}</ref>

Following Eclipse's bankruptcy in 1995, the company's assets were purchased by [[Todd McFarlane]]. Believing that the deal included the names of the Jones/Campbell anthologies, he teased a series called ''Todd McFarlane's Alien Worlds'' in the 1998 [[One-shot (comics)|one-shot]] ''Total Eclipse'', but the comic would never appear.

==Content==
Nearly all of the stories in ''Alien Worlds'' were written by Jones, with only a few exceptions (notably [[Jan Strnad]]'s "Stoney End" in issue #8 and [[Frank Brunner]]'s "The Reading!" in issue #9). For the most part ''Alien Worlds'' avoided the more intensely gruesome subject matter of ''Twisted Tales'', which was being published at the same time,<ref name=BC /> though part of Eclipse's reason for starting ''Alien Encounters'' was to cut down on the amount of sexual content.<ref name=AH064NF/> Among the cover artists for the series were [[John Bolton (comics)|John Bolton]], [[Dave Stevens]], [[Frank Brunner]], [[William Stout]], and [[Joe Chiodo]].

==Features==
===1982 series===
{| class="wikitable mw-collapsible width="75%"
! Issue !! Date !! Contents
|-
| 1 || December 1982 ||
* "The Few and the Far" (art by [[Al Williamson]]): During an intergalactic war, two creatures on an uncharted planet keep their true forms hidden from the other via "Hypno-Screen".
* "Domain" (art by [[Val Mayerik]]): The survivors of a disabled rocket on an alien world are forced to regress to prehistoric civilization under the orders of their crazed leader.
* "Head of the Class" (art by [[Nestor Redondo]]): Robot students plot vengeance against their oppressive teacher.
* "Talk to Tedi" (art by [[Tim Conrad]]): A super-intelligent robotic teddy bear follows its owner home after being inadvertently left behind on a planet millions of miles from Earth.
|-
| 2 || May 1983 ||
* "Aurora" (art by Dave Stevens): The adventures of an intergalactic female freedom fighter.
* "Vicious Circle" (art by [[Ken Steacy]]): Eerie goings-on in a deep space bound space vessel.
* "A Mind of Her Own" (art by Bruce Jones): Three children are marooned on an alien planet and one of them has the unwanted ability to bring her horrific thoughts to life.
|-
| 3 || July 1983 ||
* "The Inheritors" (art by [[Scott Hampton]]): Dolphin-like aliens from another world come to Earth to save the planet.
* "Pi in the Sky" (art by Ken Steacy): Futuristic aerial [[dogfight]]s.
* "Dark Passage" (art by [[Thomas Yeates]]): [[Puppy love]] develops between a young boy and his robot "girlfriend".
|-
| 4 || September 1983 ||
* "Princess Pam" (art by Dave Stevens): A robot protects its mistress after they crash-land on an inhospitable planet.
* "Girl of my Schemes" (art by [[Bo Hampton]]): A futuristic, exotic travel agency sets the stage for a comedic love story.
* "One Day in Ohio" (art by Ken Steacy): A robot and a monkey are the only survivors of an apocalyptic nuclear war.
* "Deep Secrets" (art by Bruce Jones): On the dark side of [[Alpha Centauri]], a man gets revenge on his unfaithful lover.
* "Land of the Fhre (art by [[Al Williamson]]): Humanity's triumph against alien invaders turns out to be the dreams of a brain dead survivor of the attack.
|-
| 5 || December 1983 ||
* "Lip Service" (art by John Bolton): A federation bureaucrat assigned to a six-week assignment on a leper-colony planetoid discovers to his horror the natives' [[praying mantis]] styled mating rituals.
* "Game Wars" (art by Ken Steacy): Foes in a futuristic battle put aside their weapons to play card games
* "Plastic" (art by Adolpho Buylla): Soldiers trapped on a planet in a meaningless war meet horrific fates as they discover who the true enemy is.
* "Wasteland" (art by Thomas Yeates): A man stuck in a hospital bed watches a beacon from the future on the room's television set.
|-
| 6 || February 1984||
* "Planet Perfict" (art by Jim Sullivan and [[Arthur Suydam]]): An adventurer exploring an alien world finds a beautiful but not quite perfect woman.
* "The Test" (art by [[Roy Krenkel]] and Val Mayerik): A man and a woman on a boating trip find hideous undersea monsters plotting to take over the Earth.
* "Pride of the Fleet" (art by Frank Brunner and [[Mike Mignola]]): The adventures of a female warrior.
|-
| 7 || April 1984 ||
* "The Small World of Lewis Stillman" (art by [[Richard Corben]]): The last two adult survivors of a planet-wide alien attack come out of hiding and attempt to communicate with the savage, depraved remnants of humanity that remain: all children.
* "Small Change" (art by [[Brent Anderson (comics)|Brent Anderson]]): A tiny alien piloting a Frisbee-like flying disc helps a young boy earn some cash.
* "It All Fits" (art by [[Gray Morrow]]): Flesh-eating creatures attack scientists in a compound on an icy planet.
* "Ride the Blue Bus (art by [[George Pérez]]): After a devastating war, a specially designed bus provides cross country tours to chosen survivors to instil in them the need to rebuild civilization.
|-
| 8 || November 1984 ||
* "...And Miles To Go Before I Sleep" (art by Al Williamson): As a final wish, a dying space explorer has robot-replacement created to visit his elderly parents on faraway Earth.
* "Soft Boiled" (art by Paul Rivoche): A [[film noir]]-ish detective discovers his very existence is a sham created by robots.
* "Collector's Item" (art by Ken Steacy): A set of [[trading card]]s reveal the mechanics of an imminent alien invasion to a young boy.
* "Stoney End" (art by [[Rand Holmes]]): Doomed astronauts who have crash landed on a planet attempt to temporarily "escape" the horror of their impending deaths by reading science fiction comic books.
|-
| 9|| January 1985 ||
* "10 Devils" (art by Bo Hampton): Soldiers fight a horde of intelligent, advanced and heavily armed gigantic ants.
* "The Reading" (art by Frank Brunner): Somewhere between time and space, an eerie [[tarot]] card reading reveals that the Earth no longer exists.
* "Small Game" (art by Mike Hoffman): Miniaturized hunters kill insects for sport.
* "The Maiden and the Dragon" (art by Bo Hampton): A clever young woman slays a hideous sea serpent.
|}

===1987 series===
{| class="wikitable mw-collapsible width="75%"
! Issue !! Date !! Contents
|-
| - || May 1988 ||
* "Phony Express" (art by Thom Enriquez): A newly hired postal rider on an alien outpost finds a letter in his pouch revealing his wife's adulterous ways.
* "Looking For Louie" (art by [[Ralph Reese]]): The whacky adventures of human-sized cockroach space travellers.
* "Boots and Jackets" (art by Eric Shanower): An old tracker gets one last chance for adventure in the jungles of a distant planet.
* "In The Meadow" (art by [[Mike Dringenberg]]): While swimming in a pond, a young teenaged girl and her dog encounter an alien hunting for trophies.
* "Jupiter Rising" (art by [[Bill Wray]]): One morning a man and his house-cat repeatedly stumble backwards into prehistoric time.
* "Worlds Apart" (art by [[Bob Fingerman]]): An advanced frog-like alien becomes stranded on Earth.
|}

== Revival series ==
In 2010, Jones and actor [[Thomas Jane]] announced that they were writing a revival series slated for release sometime in the future.<ref>CBR STAFF. [https://www.cbr.com/cci-raw-studios-panel/ "CCI: RAW Studios Panel: Actor Thomas Jane and artist Tim Bradstreet announced the relaunch of long defunct Pacific anthology 'Alien Worlds' and horror anthology 'Twisted Tales' in addition to other RAW Studios news"], ''CBR'' (AUG 03, 2010).</ref> As of 2025 no further news has emerged.

== References ==
{{reflist}}

==External links==
* {{gcdb series|id= 2684 |title=Alien Worlds ''(Pacific Comics)''}}
* {{gcdb series|id= 2915 |title=Alien Worlds ''(Eclipse Comics, 1984 series)''}}
* {{gcdb series|id= 20338 |title=Alien Worlds ''(Blackthorne Publishing)''}}
* {{gcdb series|id= 3689 |title=Alien Worlds ''(Eclipse Comics, 1988 series)''}}

{{Eclipse Comics}}

[[Category:1982 comics debuts]]
[[Category:1985 comics endings]]
[[Category:1988 comics debuts]]
[[Category:1988 comics endings]]
[[Category:Comics anthologies]]
[[Category:Comics publications]]
[[Category:Comics set on fictional planets]]
[[Category:Defunct American comics]]
[[Category:Eclipse Comics titles]]
[[Category:Pacific Comics titles]]
[[Category:Science fiction comics]]

Widget (video game)

2025-05-13T00:45:30Z

141.136.167.114:

{{Short description|1992 video game}}
{{refimprove|date=April 2021}}
{{Infobox video game
|title = Widget
|image = Widget Coverart.png
|caption =
|developer = Graphic Research
|publisher = [[Atlus]]
|designer = K. Onishi R. Saito
|programmer = R. Takahashi Y. Mizutani
|composer = Shinji Tachikawa Fumito Tamayama T. Uchibori Yoko Kawashima
|released = November 1992<ref name="NintendoList">{{cite web |url=https://www.nintendo.com/consumer/downloads/nes_games.pdf |publisher=Nintendo of America |access-date=August 9, 2015 |title=NES Games|url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140611225644/http://www.nintendo.com/consumer/downloads/nes_games.pdf |archive-date=June 11, 2014}}</ref>
|genre = [[Action game|Action]], [[platform game|platform]]
|modes = [[Single-player]]
|platforms = [[Nintendo Entertainment System]]
}}

'''''Widget''''' is an action-platform [[video game]] series created for the [[Nintendo Entertainment System]] in the 1990s by [[Atlus]]. It was based on the [[cartoon]] series ''[[Widget (TV series)|Widget the World Watcher]]'', which stars a purple alien named Widget. The original game came out in 1992, followed by the [[sequel]] ''Super Widget'' on the [[Super Nintendo Entertainment System|Super NES]] in 1993.

== ''Widget'' ==
The original '''''Widget''''' video game was released in 1992. In this game, Widget must stop his evil twin from destroying the planet Earth. Widget can shoot pellets out of a gun. There are five levels, and the player can choose which order to play the middle four levels. After beating a level, Widget gains the ability to transform into a new form (including a [[golem]], a [[cannon]], a [[bird]] and a speedy [[mouse]]).

The game has various bugs, including numerous errors that allow the player to move through walls. Other bugs are capable of crashing the game or warping the player to the next room of a level. Many of these glitches are exploited by speed-runs of the game.

== ''Super Widget'' ==
{{Infobox video game
|collapsible = yes
|state = collapsed
|title = Super Widget
|image = Super Widget cover.jpg
|caption = Cover art
|developer = [[Atlus Co.|Atlus]]
|publisher = Atlus
|composer = Tomoyuki Hamada
|designer = Hideyuki Kubota
|released = 1993
|genre = [[Action game|2D action]] [[platform game|platformer]]
|modes = [[Single-player]]
|platforms = [[Super Nintendo Entertainment System]]
}}
{{Video game reviews
|title=Reviews for ''Super Widget'' (SNES)
|Allgame={{rating|2.5|5}}<ref>{{cite web|last=Weiss|first=Brett Alan|archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20141115094524/http://www.allgame.com/game.php?id=2641|archivedate=November 15, 2014|url=http://www.allgame.com/game.php?id=2641|title=Super Widget |work=[[AllGame]]|accessdate=March 7, 2021}}</ref>
|EGM=4/10<ref>{{cite magazine|last1=Semrad|first1=Ed|last2=Carpenter|first2=Danyon|last3=Alessi|first3=Martin|author4=Sushi-X|last5=Weigand|first5=Mike|url=https://archive.org/details/Electronic_Gaming_Monthly_51/page/n39/mode/2up|title=Review Crew|magazine=[[Electronic Gaming Monthly]]|volume=6|number=10|date=October 1993|pages=32–44|accessdate=February 16, 2021}}</ref>
|GamePro=4.5/5{{efn|''GamePro'' scored ''Super Widget'' 4.5/5 twice for graphics and control, 5/5 for sound, and 4.5/5 for fun factor.<ref>{{cite magazine|author=Ms. Demeanor|date=June 1993|url=https://archive.org/details/GamePro_Issue_047_June_1993/page/n73/mode/2up|title=Super Widget|magazine=[[GamePro]]|issue=47|page=74|accessdate=March 7, 2021}}</ref>}}
|NP=3.15/5{{efn|''Nintendo Power'' scored 3/5 twice for challenge and play control, 3.5/5 for graphics/sound, and 3.1/5 for theme/fun.<ref>{{cite magazine|url=https://archive.org/details/nintendo-power-issue-127-december-1999/Nintendo%20Power%20Issue%20050%20July%201993/page/101/mode/2up|title=Now Playing|magazine=[[Nintendo Power]]|volume=50|date=July 1993|pages=102–107|accessdate=March 7, 2021}}</ref>}}
|SJ=77/100<ref>{{cite magazine|url=https://archive.org/details/SuperJuegos_025/page/n95/mode/2up|title=Super Widget|language=es|magazine=[[:es:superjuegos|Superjuegos]]|issue=25|pages=96–98|accessdate=March 7, 2021}}</ref>
|SP=54%<ref>{{cite magazine|last=Nicholson|first=Zy|date=October 1993|url=https://archive.org/details/Superplay_Issue_12_1993-10_Future_Publishing_GB/page/n69/mode/2up|title=Super Widget|magazine=[[Super Play]]|issue=12|page=70|accessdate=March 7, 2021}}</ref>
}}
'''''Super Widget''''' is a video game for the [[Super Nintendo Entertainment System|SNES]] made in 1993 by [[Atlus]]. It is a [[sequel]] to ''Widget'' for the [[Nintendo Entertainment System|NES]]. In the game, a new alien force threatens Earth. Widget, with his sidekick Mega-Brain, must explore the Horsehead Nebula and save the planet once again.

The game is a [[platform game]] in which Widget must travel through various planets in his quest to reach the rank of World Watcher. In these planets, Widget would need to traverse rigorous terrain and collect "W" coins along the way. One hundred of the coins would grant Widget an extra life. In his natural state, Widget can only succumb to one hit before losing a life, but if he could find tokens with letters embedded on them, he can transform into a more powerful creature that can take more hits. If he collects another identical token, Widget will evolve once again and take the form of an even greater creature – one that can take three hits before losing a life. If three are collected, the player will get a forcefield that can act as a shield from one hit.

Unlike most platformers, performance is ranked on a grading scale of D-S (with S being the best rank possible). After conquering each level's boss, players are taken to a screen which evaluates the time it took to finish the level, combat rank and overall Watcher experience points. Rankings have no effect on the gameplay or the ending of the game.

== Notes ==
{{notelist}}
== References ==
{{Reflist}}

==External links==
* {{IGN|type=cheats|id=007/007016|name=Widget}}
* {{moby game|id=/widget|name=''Widget''}}
* {{IGN|type=cheats|id=008/008288|name=Super Widget}}
* [http://www.gamefaqs.com/snes/588765-super-widget ''Super Widget''] at [[GameFAQs]]

{{Atlus}}

[[Category:1992 video games]]
[[Category:Atlus games]]
[[Category:Fiction about the Horsehead Nebula]]
[[Category:Graphic Research games]]
[[Category:Nintendo Entertainment System games]]
[[Category:Nintendo Entertainment System-only games]]
[[Category:North America-exclusive video games]]
[[Category:Platformers]]
[[Category:Sega video game franchises]]
[[Category:Single-player video games]]
[[Category:Super Nintendo Entertainment System games]]
[[Category:Super Nintendo Entertainment System-only games]]
[[Category:Video games about extraterrestrial life]]
[[Category:Video games based on animated television series]]
[[Category:Video games developed in Japan]]

Maze Agency

2025-05-12T23:57:39Z

141.136.167.114:

{{Short description|American mystery comic book series}}
{{Infobox comic book title

| title = The Maze Agency
| image = Maze-agency01.jpg
| caption = The cover to ''The Maze Agency'' #1 (December 1988), art by [[Adam Hughes]].
| schedule = Monthly
| format = Standard
| publisher = [[Comico: The Comic Company|Comico Comics]] [[Innovation Comics]] [[Caliber Comics]] [[IDW Comics]] Scout Comics
| date = Dec. 1988–June 1989 Dec. 1989–Nov. 1991 (first series) 1997 (second series) Nov. 2005–Jan. 2006 (third series)
| issues = 23, 3, 3
| main_char_team = Jennifer Mays Gabriel Webb
| writers = Mike W. Barr
| artists =
| pencillers =
| inkers =
| colorists =
| creative_team_month =
| creative_team_year =
| creators = [[Mike W. Barr]]
| TPB = Maze Agency vol. 1
| ISBN = 1-933239-06-9
| subcat = Comico Comics
| sort = Maze Agency
}}
'''''The Maze Agency''''' is an American [[Mystery fiction|mystery]] comic book series created by [[Mike W. Barr]] and first professionally published in 1988. It revolves around a pair of detectives ('''Jennifer Mays''' and '''Gabriel Webb''') and their adventures solving puzzling murders. ''The Maze Agency'' was a 1989 nominee for the [[Will Eisner Comic Industry Award]]s for Best New Series.

== Publication history ==
''The Maze Agency'' was first published privately by Barr with art by [[Alan Davis]]. A full series, initially with art by [[Adam Hughes]] and Rick Magyar, was published by [[Comico: The Comic Company|Comico Comics]] for 7 issues in 1988-1989.<ref>{{cite web |last1=Markstein |first1=Don |website=Don Markstein's Toonopedia |accessdate=2 April 2020 |url=http://www.toonopedia.com/maze.htm |title=The Maze Agency}}</ref> Shortly before Comico ceased operations, the title moved to [[Innovation Comics]] for another 16 issues (8-23), plus an annual and a special, running until 1991. Alpha Productions released a single Maze Agency story in the anthology comic, ''The Detectives'' #1 in 1993, as well as a prose story in ''Noir'' #1 in 1994. [[Caliber Comics]] relaunched the title in 1997/1998 as a three-issue miniseries.<ref>''The Maze Agency'' #1-3 (Caliber Press, July–September 1997).</ref> [[IDW Publishing]] printed a three issue miniseries in 2005/2006 as well as reprinting #1-5 of the original series in trade paperback. A second prose story appeared in the anthology ''Sex, Lies and Private Eyes'', published by Moonstone in 2009. Scout Comics revived the series with Barr joined by artist Silvano Beltramo,<ref>{{cite web | url=https://bleedingcool.com/comics/scout-publishes-new-mike-w-barr-maze-agency-with-silvano-beltramo/ | title=Scout Publishes New Mike W. Barr Maze Agency with Silvano Beltramo | date=24 July 2022}}</ref> with a single issue published in December 2023.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Rich |first=Johnston |date=2023-09-17 |title=Maze Agency, Blood Run & Party Killer in Scout December 2023 Solicits |url=https://bleedingcool.com/comics/maze-agency-blood-run-party-killer-in-scout-december-2023-solicits/ |access-date=2023-09-20 |website=bleedingcool.com |language=en}}</ref>

== Fair-play whodunits ==
''The Maze Agency'' was one of the few mystery comic books to "play fair" with the reader — i.e. giving out sufficient clues for the reader to solve the mystery. Creator and writer Mike Barr however, in a February 2004 interview, admitted that "some of the ''Maze'' stories, frankly, are not fair-play whodunits to the reader, in that the story is possibly too complex for the reader to solve".<ref>Mike W. Barr interview, ''[[Back Issue!]]'' (February 2004).</ref> He cited as comparison an anecdote wherein the two creators of [[Ellery Queen]] were giving an interview, and one said "Ellery Queen is always fair to the reader", to which the other replied, "Ellery Queen is always fair to the reader if the reader is a genius". As Mike W. Barr is a fan of the series of Ellery Queen mysteries, the comic has much the same feel, sharing qualities such as the occasional "challenge to the reader" to solve the mystery, and an incorrect solution being offered by a character before the real answer is revealed. Barr even used Ellery as a guest star in ''Maze Agency'' #9.<ref>"The English Channeler Mystery: A Problem in Deduction", ''The Maze Agency'' #9 (Innovation, February 1990).</ref>

==Characters==
Jennifer Mays is a smart, tough, and sexy ex-CIA agent who runs the private detective agency for which the comic is named. Gabriel Webb is one of the few people to see her softer, tender side.

Gabriel Webb is a true-crime writer who longs to create more cerebral stories than his sensationalist editors like. He is a little scatterbrained and easily distracted, but has a first-rate deductive mind. Although he is romantically involved with Mays and helps her with many of her cases, he feels that the relationship makes accepting her repeated offer to join her business professionally inappropriate.

Detective Roberta Bliss is an NYPD homicide detective of Puerto Rican descent whom Webb and Mays often deal with in solving cases. She is sometimes annoyed by their tendency to complicate cases, but knows that they have the ability to crack murders that she would have a hard time solving alone.

Ashley Swift is the head of the rival Swift Detective Agency, and Mays' former boss. She is a good detective, though not as good as Mays and Webb, but her arrogance has a habit of rubbing her ex-employee the wrong way.

== References ==
{{reflist}}

[[Category:1988 comics debuts]]
[[Category:Crime comics]]
[[Category:Caliber Comics titles]]
[[Category:Comico Comics titles]]
[[Category:IDW Publishing titles]]
[[Category:Innovation Publishing titles]]
[[Category:Mystery comics]]

Innovation Publishing

2025-05-12T21:36:49Z

141.136.167.114: /* Original series */

{{short description|Defunct American comic book company}}
{{Use American English|date=January 2023}}
{{Use mdy dates|date=January 2023}}
{{Infobox publisher
| name = Innovation Publishing
| logo =
| founded = {{start date and age|1988}}
| founder = [[David Campiti]]
| key_people =
| defunct = 1994
| headquarters = [[Wheeling, West Virginia|Wheeling]], [[West Virginia]], U.S.
| publications = [[Comics]]
| topics = [[Superheroes]], licensed properties
}}
'''Innovation Publishing''' (also known as '''Innovation Books''' and the '''Innovative Corporation''') was an [[United States of America|American]] [[comic book]] company based in [[Wheeling, West Virginia]]. It was co-founded by [[David Campiti]] in 1988 after writing a business proposal and raising US$400,000 to finance its launch.<ref name=TC>{{cite web|url=https://treasurechambers.com/Periodicals/Innovation/DavidCampitiInterview.pdf|title=Special Interview: David Camptiti|website=TreasureChambers.com|date=October 2020}}</ref> Innovation became number four in market share, below [[Marvel Comics]], [[DC Comics]], and [[Dark Horse Comics]].<ref name=TC />

==Overview==
The company published many adaptations and [[tie-in]] series of existing media properties, such as [[Anne Rice]]'s [[novels]] ''[[Interview with the Vampire]]'', ''[[The Vampire Lestat]]'', and ''[[Queen of the Damned]]''. It also published adaptations of novels such as [[Terry Pratchett]]'s ''[[The Colour of Magic]]'' and ''[[The Light Fantastic]]'', [[Piers Anthony]]'s ''[[On a Pale Horse]]'', [[Don Pendleton]]'s ''[[The Executioner (book series)|The Executioner]]'', [[Larry Niven]] and [[Jerry Pournelle]]'s ''[[Lucifer's Hammer]]'', and [[Gene Wolfe]]'s ''[[The Shadow of the Torturer]]''; the [[TV series]] ''[[Dark Shadows]]'', ''[[Quantum Leap (1989 TV series)|Quantum Leap]]'', ''[[Beauty and the Beast (1987 TV series)|Beauty and the Beast]]'' and ''[[Lost In Space]]''; films such as ''[[Forbidden Planet]]'', ''[[Psycho (1960 film)|Psycho]]'', ''[[Child's Play (film series)#Comic books|Child's Play]]'', and ''[[A Nightmare on Elm Street (comics)#Innovation Publishing|A Nightmare on Elm Street]]''; and even the 1949 [[Republic Pictures|Republic]] [[Serial film|movie serial]] ''[[King of the Rocket Men]]''.

Campiti brought to Innovation a number of properties he had overseen with other publishers, including ''[[Hero Alliance]]'' (originally with [[Sirius Comics]], [[Pied Piper Comics]], and [[Wonder Color]]), ''Power Factor'' (originally with Wonder Color and then Pied Piper), and [[Mark Martin (cartoonist)|Mark Martin]]'s ''Gnatrat'' (originally with Sirius Comics). Innovation's original series included ''[[Justice Machine]]'' and writer [[Mike W. Barr]]'s ''[[Maze Agency]]'' (both series originally with [[Comico: The Comic Company|Comico]]), and ''Legends of the Stargrazers''.

Innovation was one of the first companies to delve heavily into recruiting talents from [[Brazil]], starting the American careers of [[Mike Deodato]] (''Beauty and the Beast'')<ref>{{Cite web|last=Walk|first=Chris|date=January 7, 2015|title=An Interview with the talented comic book artist Mike Deodato!|url=https://www.dontforgetatowel.com/interview-talented-comic-book-artist-mike-deodato/|access-date=July 20, 2021|website=Don't Forget A Towel|language=en-US}}</ref> and [[Joe Bennett (comics)|Joe Bennett]] (''The Light Fantastic''), among others. 1992 [[Russ Manning Award|Russ Manning "Best Newcomer" Award]]–winner [[Mike Okamoto]] broke into American comics in 1990 illustrating the Innovation titles ''The Maze Agency'' and ''Hero Alliance''.

Campiti left Innovation in 1993<ref>{{cite magazine|title=Newswatch: Campiti Leaves Innovation|magazine=[[The Comics Journal]]|number=161|date=August 1993|page=27}}</ref> to launch [[Glass House Graphics]], a studio/agency for illustrators, writers, painters, and digital designers. Shortly thereafter, in early 1994, Innovation closed, leaving substantial debts to creators, printers, and investors.<ref name="TCJ166">{{cite magazine|title=Newswatch: Innovation Goes Under Leaving Substantial Debts to Creators, Printers, and Investors|magazine=[[The Comics Journal]]|number=166|date=February 1994|pages=34–37}}</ref>

== Titles published ==
[[Image:HeroAlliance12.jpg|right|thumb|''Hero Alliance'' #12 (Dec. 1990): [[Good girl art]] by penciler [[Mike Okamoto]], inked by Mike Witherby.]]

=== Adaptations ===
* Anne Rice
** ''[[Interview with the Vampire]]'' (1991–1993), #1–12
** ''The Master of Rampling Gate'' (1991), TPB
** ''[[The Vampire Lestat]]'' (1990–1991), #1–12 (collected in 1991 as ''The Vampire Lestat: The Graphic Novel'')
** ''[[The Queen of the Damned]]'' (1991–1993), #1–11 (#12 is unpublished)
** ''The Vampire Companion'' (1990–1992), #1–3
* ''[[Beauty and the Beast (1987 TV series)|Beauty and the Beast]]'' (1993), #1–6
* ''[[Bozo: The World's Most Famous Clown|Bozo, the World's Most Famous Clown]]'' (1992), #1
* ''[[Child's Play (film series)#Comic books|Child's Play]]''
* ''[[The Colour of Magic#Graphic novel|The Colour of Magic]]'' (1991), #1–4
* ''[[Dark Shadows]]''
** Book One (1992–1993), #1–4
** Book Two (1993), #1–4
** Book Three (1993), #1
* ''[[Forbidden Planet]]'' (1992–1993), #1–4 (collected in 1993 as ''Forbidden Planet: The Saga of the Krell'')
* ''[[The Light Fantastic#Graphic Novel|The Light Fantastic]]'' (1992–1993), #1–4
* ''[[Lost in Space (comics)|Lost in Space]]''
** v1 (1991–1993), #1–18
** ''Lost in Space: Project Robinson'' (1993), #1
* ''[[Lucifer's Hammer]]'' (1993), #1–2 (#3–6 unpublished)
* ''[[Mack Bolan|Mack Bolan: The Executioner]]'' (1993), #1–3 (#4 is unpublished)
* ''[[A Nightmare on Elm Street (comics)#Innovation Publishing|A Nightmare on Elm Street]]''
** ''Freddy's Dead: The Final Nightmare'' (1991), #1–3 and 3-D (reprints #3 with 3-D sections)
** ''Nightmares on Elm Street'' (1991–1992), #1–6
** ''A Nightmare on Elm Street: The Beginning'' (1993), #1–2 (#3 unpublished)
* ''[[On a Pale Horse]]'' (1991–1993), #1–5 (#6 is unpublished)
* ''[[Quantum Leap (1989 TV series)|Quantum Leap]]'' (1991–1993), #1–13
* ''[[The Phantom of the Opera (novel)|The Phantom of the Opera]]'' (1991), TPB
* ''[[Psycho (1960 film)|Psycho]]'' (1992), #1–3
* ''[[King of the Rocket Men|Rocket Man: King of the Rocket Men]]'' (1991), #1–4
* ''[[The Shadow of the Torturer]]''<ref>{{Cite web |url=http://www.onipress.com/creator/3 |title=Onipress.com |access-date=January 24, 2012 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110827224604/http://www.onipress.com/creator/3 |archive-date=August 27, 2011 |url-status=dead}}</ref> (1991), #1–3
* ''[[Sherlock Holmes]]: [[A Study in Scarlet]]'' (1989), TPB

=== Original series ===
* ''[[3×3 Eyes]]'' (translation of the manga)<ref>{{Cite web |last=Park |first=David |date=March 1, 2011 |title=Products: Manga |url=http://www.3x3eyes.com/digest/products/manga.shtml |publisher=3x3 Eyes Digest |access-date=July 23, 2020}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |title=3x3 Eyes |url=https://atomicavenue.com/atomic/TitleDetail.aspx?TitleID=30519 |publisher=Atomic Avenue |access-date=July 23, 2020}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |title=3x3 Eyes: Curse of the Gesu |url=http://atomicavenue.com/title/30521/3x3-Eyes-Curse-of-the-Gesu |publisher=Atomic Avenue |access-date=July 23, 2020}}</ref>
* ''Ack the Barbarian'' (1991), #1
* ''All Hallow's Eve'' (1991), #1
* ''Angel of Death'' (1990), #1–4
* ''Angry Shadows'' (1989), #1
* ''Avenue X'' (1992), #1
* ''Black and White Magic!'' (1991), #1
* ''Biff Thundersaur'' (1991), #1
* ''Celestial Mechanics: The Adventures of Widget Wilhelmina Jones'' (1990–1991), #1–3
* ''Cobalt Blue'' ([[Trade paperback (comics)|trade paperback]], 1989) — by [[Mike Gustovich]] and [[Keith Pollard]]
* ''Cyberpunk''
** ''Cyberpunk'' Graphic Novel #1 (1989)
** v1 (1989–1990), #1–2 (reprints the 1989 graphic novel)
** Book Two v1 (1990), #1–2 (collected in 1990 as ''Cyberpunk Book Two'' graphic novel #1)
** ''The Seraphim Files'' (1990), #1–2 (collected in 1990 as ''Cyberpunk: The Seraphim Files'' Book One)
* ''The Dead Heat'' (1990), #1 (All American Comics imprint)
* ''Equinox Chronicles'' (1991), #1-2
* ''Gnatrat: The Movie'' (1986)
* ''The Group Larue'' (1989), #1–3 (collected as ''The Group Larue'' Graphic Novel #1)
* ''Headman'' (1990), #1
* ''[[Hero Alliance]]''
** ''End of the Golden Age'' (1989), #1–3 (reprints the [[Pied Piper Comics]] graphic album)
** v2 (1989–1991), #1–17 (continues from [[Wonder Color|Wonder Comics]])
** ''Hero Alliance Annual'' (1990), #1
** ''Hero Alliance & Justice Machine: Identity Crisis'' (1990), #1
** ''Hero Alliance Quarterly'' (1991–1992), #1–4
** ''Hero Alliance Special'' (1992), #1
* ''[[Justice Machine]]'' (from [[Comico: The Comic Company|Comico]])
** ''The New Justice Machine'' (1989–1990)
** ''Justice Machine Summer Spectacular'' (1990)
** v3 (1990–1991), #1–7
* ''Lunatic Fringe'' (1989), #1–2
* ''Legends of the Stargrazers'' (1989–1990), #1–6 (collected as ''Legends of the Stargrazers'' Graphic Novels #1 & 2)
* ''[[Maze Agency]]''
** v1 (1989–1990), #8–23 (from Comico)
** Annual (1990), #1
** Special (1990), #1
* ''Mangle Tangle Tales'' (1990), #1
* ''Masques'' (1992), #1–2
* ''Media Starr'' (1989), #1–3 (collected as ''Media Starr'' Graphic Novel #1)
* ''Neon City'' (1991), #1
* ''Neon City: After the Fall'' (1992), #1
* ''Newstralia'' (1989–1990), #1–5
* [[Alex Niño]]'s ''Nightmare'' (1989), #1
* [[Bruce Jones (comics)|Bruce Jones]]' ''Outer Edge'' (1993), #1
* ''Power Factor''
** v1 (1990–1991), #1–3 (#1 reprints Wonder Comics and #2 reprints Pied Piper Comics)
** Special (1991), #1
* ''Professor Om'' (1990), #1
* [[Bruce Jones (comics)|Bruce Jones]]' ''Razor's Edge'' (1993), #1
* [[Walt Kelly]]'s ''Santa Claus Adventures'' (1990)
* ''Scaramouch'' (1990–1991), #1–2
* ''Sentry Special'' (1991), #1 (a ''Hero Alliance'' character)
* ''Seraphim'' (1990), #1
* ''Straw Men'' (1989–1990), #1–8 (All-American Comics imprint)
* ''SoulQuest'' (1989), TPB
* ''Timedrifter'' (1990–1991), #1–3
* ''[[Bill Ward (cartoonist)#Torchy|Torchy]]'' (1991–1992), #1–5 (reprints from [[Quality Comics]])
* ''Vigil: Fall from Grace'' (1992), #1–2 (collected as ''Vigil: Fall from Grace'')
* ''Vigil: The Golden Parts'' (1992), #1
* ''Vigial: Kukulkan'' (1993), #1
* ''Wonderworlds'' (1992), #1

== See also ==
* [[Millennium Publications]]

==References==
{{reflist}}

==External links==
* {{gcdb publisher|id=612|title=Innovation Publishing}}

{{Comic book publishers in North America navbox}}

[[Category:Innovation Publishing| ]]
[[Category:Defunct comics and manga publishing companies]]
[[Category:Comic book publishing companies of the United States]]
[[Category:Defunct companies based in West Virginia]]
[[Category:Publishing companies disestablished in 1994]]
[[Category:1988 establishments in West Virginia]]
[[Category:1994 disestablishments in West Virginia]]
[[Category:Publishing companies established in 1988]]

Hero Alliance

2025-05-12T21:26:29Z

141.136.167.114: /* Sources */

{{Short description|Comic book superhero team}}
{{Infobox comics organization 
|image = HeroAlliance12.jpg
|imagesize =
|caption = ''Hero Alliance'' #12 ([[Innovation Publishing]], Dec. 1990); pencils by [[Mike Okamoto]], inks by Mike Witherby.
|name = The Hero Alliance
|publisher = [[Pied Piper Comics]] [[Wonder Color|Wonder Comics]] [[Innovation Publishing]]
|debut = ''Pied Piper Graphic Album'' #1 - ''Hero Alliance'' ([[Pied Piper Comics]], Dec. 1986)
|creators = Kevin Juaire [[David Campiti]] [[Ron Lim]] Mike Witherby [[Bart Sears]] Rick Bryant
|base =
|members = Victor Sentry Argent Golden Guard Hover Powerhause Castor Pollux Delphi Tawny Winters Gossamer
|subcat =
|hero = y
|villain =
}}

'''The Hero Alliance''' is a fictional [[United States|American]] team of [[comic book]] [[superhero]]es in an eponymous series mostly published by companies associated with [[David Campiti]], including his own [[Innovation Publishing]]. The group was created by writer Kevin Juaire and artists [[Ron Lim]] (pencils), Mike Witherby (pencils), [[Bart Sears]] (inks), and Rick Bryant (inks).

==Publication history==
Hero Alliance first appeared in a 1986 "[[graphic novel]]" by [[Pied Piper Comics]] in ''Pied Piper Graphic Album'' #1 — ''Hero Alliance''. The team's adventures continued directly into a ''Hero Alliance'' vol. 1, issue #1,{{efn|Described as "published 8 times per year" in the [[indicia (publishing)|indicia]].<ref>{{cite magazine|url=https://www.comics.org/issue/40028/|publisher=[[Wonder Color]]|title=Hero Alliance|date=May 1987|number=1}}</ref>}} published by the short-lived publisher [[Wonder Color|Wonder Comics]] in 1987.

The original set of stories were reprinted — with minor edits and additional pages — as a three-issue [[Limited series (comics)|limited series]] by Campiti's [[Innovation Publishing]] in 1989.<ref>{{cite magazine|publisher=Pied Piper Comics|work=Hero Alliance: End of the Golden Age|number=1|date=July 1989|title=End of the Golden Age (Part One)|quote=Reprint of ''Hero Alliance'', no. 1 (Sirius)}}</ref> Innovation then released a regular series, written by [[David Lawrence (writer)|David Lawrence]], which ran for seventeen issues from 1989 to 1991, plus an [[Annual publication#Comic books|annual]] and a ''[[Justice Machine]]'' crossover in 1990. The regular series was followed by four issues of ''Hero Alliance Quarterly'' released from 1991 to 1992, and the series concluded with a ''Hero Alliance Special'' in 1992.

In the early 1990s, Campiti published a newsletter announcing that further adventures of ''Hero Alliance'' would be published by [[Extreme Studios]] and drawn by [[Glass House Graphics]] artists,{{citation needed|date=March 2023}} but no comics ensued.

== Characters ==
=== Hero Alliance ===
'''Victor''': A character similar to [[Superman]], he withdraws from the Guardsmen when he becomes disappointed by the new membership's lack of heroic standards. He regards the Golden Guardsman as his mentor and role model, and after the current Guardsmen are all killed, his guilt at writing them off leads him to try to establish a similar mentoring role over the less experienced and powerful heroes all around him. In his secret identity, he is the owner of a chain of fitness centers and a former bodybuilding champion.

'''Kris (Golden Guard)''': Daughter of the original Golden Guardsman, she inherits his superhuman strength and is targeted for murder by her brother, jealous that she had inherited powers and he apparently hadn't. Although she adopts a version of her father's costume early on she takes a while to adopt a version of his pseudonym, superheroing for a while just as "Kris".

'''Sentry''': A Batman [[pastiche]], he keeps his powers (or lack thereof) a secret.

'''Hover''': A telekinetic who loses the use of his legs in action and has to fly to get around outside of a wheelchair.

'''Tawny Winters''': An empath, her appearance alters to become the perfect woman for everyone who sees her.

'''Gossamer''': A woman with the power of intangibility over herself and anyone with whom she has contact.

'''Gemini +''': A pair of identical twins who possess super strength shared between them, and a force field that operates only when they are in close proximity to each other; it is their capture of Sepulchre and the unimpressed reactions of the other heroes to their feat that leads to Sepulchre's confession to having killed the Guardsmen. Bob is an obnoxious loudmouth, and his brother Steve is apologetic for Bob's behavior.

=== Antagonists ===
'''Sepulchre''': Self-confessed murderer of the Guardsmen (by planting bombs in their headquarters), Sepulchre is up until that point regarded as a minor, easily defeated villain. He is later revealed as a knife-wielding serial killer who has never been caught.

'''Apostate''': Growing up apparently without powers, Kris' brother develops a resentment against his father and sister because his father lavished attention on his presumed successor as a superhero. He steals his father's helmet, which apparently has electrical powers, and uses it to kill the old retired superhero, as well as another randomly encountered hero named Predator, and tries to kill his sister and Victor. He later learns his electrical powers are innate and the helmet is simply a psychological crutch.

'''StarCorp Man''' is sponsored by a major corporation. Out of ethical concerns, his abilities are linked to an "empathic limiter" that causes him to experience pain equal (or at least proportional) to any he inflicts using these granted powers, to encourage restraint. This control method backfires when he begins to develop a psychological addiction to the induced sensations.

== Bibliography ==
* ''Pied Piper Graphic Album'' #1 — ''Hero Alliance'' (a.k.a. ''Hero Alliance: The End of the Golden Age'') [[Trade paperback (comics)|TPB]] ([[Pied Piper Comics]], Dec 1986)
* ''Hero Alliance'' vol. 1, #1 ([[Wonder Color|Wonder Comics]], 1987)
* ''Hero Alliance: The End of the Golden Age'' #1–3 ([[Innovation Publishing]], 1989)
* ''Hero Alliance'' vol. 2, #1–17 (Innovation, 1989–1991)
* ''Hero Alliance Annual'' #1 (Innovation, 1990)
* ''Hero Alliance & [[Justice Machine]]: Identity Crisis'' #1 (Innovation, 1990)
* ''Innovation Spectacular'' #1 (Innovation, 1991) — featuring Hero Alliance
* ''Sentry Special'' #1 (Innovation, 1991) — featuring Hero Alliance's Sentry
* ''Hero Alliance Quarterly'' #1–4 (Innovation, 1991–1992)
* ''Hero Alliance Special'' #1 (Innovation, 1992)

== Notes ==
{{notelist}}

==References==
=== Citations ===
{{reflist}}

=== Sources ===
* {{gcdb series|id=3133|title=Hero Alliance}} (Wonder Color)
* {{gcdb series|id=42195|title=Pied Piper Graphic Album #1 - Hero Alliance}} (Pied Piper)
* {{gcdb series|id=4327|title=Hero Alliance: End of the Golden Age}} (Innovation)
* {{gcdb series|id=31331|title=Hero Alliance Limited Edition: End of the Golden Age}} (Innovation)
* {{gcdb series|id=3955|title=Hero Alliance}} (Innovation)
* {{gcdb series|id=4128|title=Hero Alliance Annual}} (Innovation)
* {{gcdb series|id=4127|title=Hero Alliance & Justice Machine: Identity Crisis}} (Innovation)
* {{gcdb series|id=3956|title=Hero Alliance Quarterly}} (Innovation)
* {{gcdb series|id=4567|title=Hero Alliance Special}} (Innovation)

[[Category:1985 comics debuts]]
[[Category:Innovation Publishing titles]]
[[Category:Superhero comics]]

Pied Piper Comics

2025-05-12T21:15:01Z

141.136.167.114:

{{Short description|Defunct American comic book publishing company}}
{{Infobox publisher
| name = Pied Piper Comics
| logo =
| founded = {{start date and age|1986}}<ref name="TCJ115">{{cite news|title=Distributor Finances Five Publishers|url=http://comics.lib.msu.edu/rri/mrri/malibuz.htm|accessdate=February 5, 2016|work=The Comics Journal|issue=115|date=April 1987|pages=12–13}}</ref>
| defunct = {{end date and age|1988}}
| founder = Mark L. Hamlin and [[Roger McKenzie (comics)|Roger McKenzie]]<ref name="TCJ115" />
| keypeople = [[David Campiti]]
| headquarters = Editorial office: [[Wheeling, West Virginia]] Business office: [[Wyoming, Michigan]]
| subjects =
| genre = Superheroes
| publications = [[Comics]]
| owner =
| imprints =
}}
'''Pied Piper Comics''' was a short-lived [[United States of America|American]] [[comic book]] publishing company that operated from 1986 to 1988. The company was founded by Mark L. Hamlin and [[Roger McKenzie (comics)|Roger McKenzie]],<ref name="TCJ115" /> with writer/editor [[David Campiti]] playing a major role.<ref name="TCJ115" />

== Origins ==
According to David Campiti, Pied Piper's origins were tied to two other publishers with which he was associated at the time: [[Amazing (publisher)|Amazing]] (full name: Amazing Publishing Company)<ref>{{gcdb publisher|id= 550 |title=Amazing}}</ref> and [[Wonder Color|Wonder Comics]], both of which were financed by comics distributor [[Scott Mitchell Rosenberg]] and a small group of investors.<ref name="TCJ115" /> The plan was that Campiti would package comics for all three publishers through his studio Campiti and Associates,<ref>{{cite web|url=http://bailsprojects.com/bio.aspx?Name=CAMPITI+AND+ASSOCIATES|title=Campiti and Associates entry|work=Who's Who of American Comic Books, 1928–1999|access-date=Dec 25, 2021}}</ref> with Pied Piper handling projects in the form of posters and [[graphic novels]]. Amazing published black-and-white comics, while Wonder Color published comics in color.<ref name="TCJ115" />

Hamlin previously worked as a sales and marketing representative for [[Comico: The Comic Company]];<ref>{{cite magazine|work=[[Comics Interview]]|title=Mark Hamlin: A Rap with a Sales Rep|number=10|date=Jun 1984|publisher=[[Fictioneer Books]]}}</ref> Pied Piper Comics was a play on Hamlin's name and the legend of the [[Pied Piper of Hamelin]].{{cn|date=March 2023}} McKenzie was a comics writer most well-known for his prior work for [[Marvel Comics]].

== Overview ==
Hamlin, McKenzie, and Campiti shared the title of Publisher of Pied Piper Comics, with Campiti also holding the title of Editor-in-Chief. Hamlin was Financial Manager and McKenzie was Managing Editor.<ref name=Lawrence>{{cite comic|writer=[[David Lawrence (writer)|David Lawrence]]|story=An Explanation|title=Lawrence & Lim's THE NEW HUMANS|volume=1|issue=1|date=July 1987|publisher=Pied Piper Comics}}</ref> The company's business offices were in [[Wyoming, Michigan]], while its editorial offices were in Camptiti's hometown of [[Wheeling, West Virginia]].<ref name=Lawrence />

Campiti personally edited most of the publisher's comics as well as writing a number of titles.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://bailsprojects.com/bio.aspx?Name=CAMPITI%2c+DAVE|title=Dave Campiti entry]|work=Who's Who of American Comic Books, 1928–1999|access-date=Dec 25, 2021}}</ref>

Pied Piper temporarily acquired [[David Lawrence (writer)|David Lawrence]] and [[Ron Lim]]'s ''[[Ex-Mutants]]'' after the title began with two publishers associated with Campiti and financial backer Rosenberg: [[Eternity Comics]] and Amazing.<ref name=TCJ116>{{cite magazine|first=Gary|last=Groth|author-link=Gary Groth|title=Black and White and Dead All Over|work=[[The Comics Journal]]|number=116|date=July 1987 |pages=10-14}}</ref> Campiti left Rosenberg's various ventures in 1987, taking Lawrence & Lim's ''Ex-Mutants'' with him to Pied Piper. The company also published ''Lawrence & Lim's The New Humans''.<ref name=Lawrence />

== Demise ==
Pied Piper collapsed in 1988, with a number of titles, such as ''Hero Alliance'' and ''Power Factor'', being continued by Campiti's own publishing venture, [[Innovation Publishing]], while ''Ex-Mutants'' and ''The New Humans'' both returned to Eternity (which at that point was an imprint of another Rosenberg operation, [[Malibu Comics]]).<ref name=Mason>{{cite web|title=Dinosaurs for Hire: Tom Mason interview...|first=J.C.|last=Vaughn|work=[[Overstreet Comic Book Price Guide|Overstreet Comic Book]] Marketplace Yearbook 2015-2016|date=2015|publisher=[[Diamond Comic Distributors]]|url=https://scoop.previewsworld.com/Home/4/1/73/1017?articleID=195091|access-date=March 16, 2023|quote=Of his four original secret companies, Amazing and Wonder were run out of West Virginia by David Campiti, and Imperial and Eternity were run from Brooklyn by Brian Marshall. Imperial, Amazing, and Wonder were closed down, and Campiti went on to his own company, Pied Piper (and later Innovation). ''Ex-Mutants'' had been created by David Lawrence and Ron Lim, and was published by Campiti through the Amazing imprint. But they lost control of the title in a bizarre dispute with Scott that I could never figure out – this had all happened just before I signed on to Malibu. The end result was that Scott ended up with ''Ex-Mutants'' being published through Eternity.... Eternity still had some books that were selling well, but Scott wanted to move its operations to the West Coast so we inherited the Eternity books that were in the pipeline. That included ''Ex-Mutants''.}}</ref>

==Titles==
* ''Beast Warriors of Shaolin'' #1–3 (1987)
* ''[[Ex-Mutants]]'':
** ''Lawrence & Lim's Ex-Mutants'' vol. 1, #6–8 (1987) — acquired from Amazing; later acquired by [[Eternity Comics]]
** ''Lawrence & Lim's Ex-Mutants Microseries: Erin'' #1 (1987)
* ''Lawrence & Lim's The New Humans'' #1–3 (1987) — later acquired by Eternity Comics
* ''[[Hero Alliance|Hero Alliance: End of the Golden Age]]'' (1986), ''Pied Piper Graphic Album'' #1 — collected material from [[Sirius Comics]], later acquired by [[Wonder Color|Wonder Comics]], and then [[Innovation Publishing]]
* ''Mr. Doom'' (1987)
* ''Phigments'' #2 (1987) — series acquired from Amazing Comics
* ''Power Factor'' #2 (1987) — series acquired from Wonder Comics, then continued by Innovation Publishing

== References ==
=== Notes ===
{{reflist}}

=== Sources ===
* {{gcdb publisher|id=532|title=Pied Piper Comics}}

[[Category:1986 establishments in Michigan]]
[[Category:1988 disestablishments in Michigan]]
[[Category:Defunct comics and manga publishing companies]]
[[Category:Publishing companies established in 1986]]
[[Category:Publishing companies disestablished in 1988]]

Ex-Mutants

2025-05-12T20:46:52Z

141.136.167.114:

{{Short description|Comic book series}}
{{Multiple issues|
{{Lead too short|date=October 2024}}
{{Primary sources|date=October 2024}}
}}
{{Infobox comic book title
| image = Ex-mutants4.jpg
| alt =
| caption = Cover to ''Ex-Mutants'' vol. 1 #4 ([[Sunrise Distribution|Amazing]], 1987). Story by [[David Lawrence (writer)|David Lawrence]], art by [[Ron Lim]] and Tim Dzon.
| schedule = Monthly
| format =
|ongoing=y
| publisher = [[Eternity Comics]] [[Sunrise Distribution|Amazing Comics]] [[Pied Piper Comics]] [[Malibu Comics]]
| date = 1986–1994
| issues =
| main_char_team = Belushi Erin Angela Vikki Lorelei
| writers = David Lawrence
| artists = Ron Lim
| pencillers =
| inkers =
| colorists =
| editors = William Davidson
| creative_team_month =
| creative_team_year =
| creators = [[David Lawrence (writer)|David Lawrence]] [[Ron Lim]] [[David Campiti]]<ref name=Lawrence />
| subcat = Malibu Comics
| sort = Ex-Mutants
}}
'''''Ex-Mutants''''' is a [[comic book]] series created by writer [[David Lawrence (writer)|David Lawrence]] and artist [[Ron Lim]], along with [[comics packaging|comics packager]] [[David Campiti]] in 1986.<ref>{{cite web |last1=Markstein |first1=Don |website=Don Markstein's Toonopedia |accessdate=2 April 2020 |url=http://www.toonopedia.com/exmutnts.htm |title=Ex-Mutants}}</ref> It was first published by [[Eternity Comics]] and then [[Sunrise Distribution|Amazing Comics]], [[Pied Piper Comics]], and finally [[Malibu Comics|Malibu]]/Eternity. Malibu created a shared universe called '''Shattered Earth''' with the characters. In 1992, Malibu comics rebooted the franchise with a new continuity. A video game for the [[Sega Genesis]] based on the rebooted version was released in 1992, being developed by Malibu Interactive and published by [[Sega of America, Inc.]]<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.mobygames.com/game/ex-mutants|title = Ex-Mutants for Genesis (1992)}}</ref>

==Publication history==
Campiti first approached Lawrence about the project in the spring of 1986; at that point the comic was going to be titled ''Young Ex-Mutant Samurai Humans''.<ref name=Lawrence />

''Ex-Mutants'' premiered with a first issue published by [[Eternity Comics]] in 1986. The affiliated publisher [[Sunrise Distribution|Amazing]] released an expanded special edition reprint of #1 the same year, followed by issues #2–5. Contractual problems resulted in a 1987 move to [[Pied Piper Comics]],<ref name=Lawrence>{{cite comic|writer=[[David Lawrence (writer)|David Lawrence]]|story=An Explanation|title=Lawrence & Lim's THE NEW HUMANS|volume=1|issue=1|date=July 1987|publisher=[[Pied Piper Comics]]}}</ref> where the series was retitled ''Lawrence & Lim's Ex-Mutants'' for issues #6–8. The same year, Pied Piper also released a [[one-shot (comics)|one-shot]] publication: ''Lawrence & Lim's Ex-Mutants Microseries: Erin''.

A legal dispute followed,<ref name=TCJ116>{{cite magazine|first=Gary|last=Groth|author-link=Gary Groth|title=Black and White and Dead All Over|magazine=[[The Comics Journal]]|number=116|date=July 1987 |pages=10–14}}</ref> and after running out of money for the struggle, Lawrence and Lim surrendered;{{cn|date=March 2023}} the title returned to Eternity Comics (which by this time was an imprint of [[Malibu Comics]]). From December 1987–January 1988, Eternity reprinted issues #6–7, as well as a [[Trade paperback (comics)|trade paperback]] collecting the first Amazing Comics issues #1–3 (as ''Ex-Mutants: The Saga Begins'', also known as ''Ex-Mutants: A Graphic Novel of the Shattered Earth''), followed by another trade paperback in May 1988, collecting issues #4–7 as ''The Original Ex-Mutants: Gods and Men''.

After a legal battle, Malibu/Eternity began a shared universe for the characters called '''Shattered Earth'''. From 1988 to 1990, Eternity produced ''Ex-Mutants: The Shattered Earth Chronicles'' #1–15. The publisher also released an [[annual publication]] in 1988 and the ''Ex-Mutants Winter Special'' in 1989. From 1988 to 1989, a solo series for the characters: ''Solo Ex-Mutants'' (issues #1-6) was published by Malibu.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.comics.org/series/74784/|title=GCD :: Series :: Solo Ex-Mutants}}</ref> The Ex-mutants universe was expanded with the spin-offs: ''The New Humans'' (1987-1989),<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.comics.org/series/16073/|title=GCD :: Series :: The New Humans}}</ref> ''Wild Knights'' (1989),<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.comics.org/series/17326/|title=GCD :: Series :: Wild Knights}}</ref> and ''Shattered Earth'' (1988-1989).<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.comics.org/series/16971/|title=GCD :: Series :: Shattered Earth}}</ref>

Malibu Comics published a rebooted version of the characters in ''Ex-Mutants'' vol. 2, #1–18 from 1992 to 1994,<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.comics.org/series/4568/|title = GCD :: Series :: Ex-Mutants}}</ref> as part of the '''Genesis''' Universe with [[Protectors (comics)|Protectors]] and [[Dinosaurs for Hire]].

==Fictional character biographies==
===Initial publishers===
In a near future, an all-out war has decimated the planet, and the hapless survivors and their offspring have been horribly mutated by the toxins released into the environment.

A lone scientist, the three-eyed Dr. Emmanuel Cugat, selects five mutants, one male and four females, to be genetically altered, resequencing their mutated DNA to restore them to humanity. '''Belushi''', '''Erin''', '''Angela''', '''Vikki''', and '''Lorelei''' become perfect physical specimens.<ref>''Ex-Mutants'' Vol. 1, #1 (1986). Eternity Comics.</ref> Dr. Cugat then sends them forth to inspire the shattered Earth. Many of the mutants have other ideas, particularly their nemesis, the monstrous Great Fred. They meet the ''Wild Knights'', an old motorcycle gang that had settled down and were trying to recreate civilization. The Ex-Mutants become friends with their leader, Zack, but they are also pursued by minions of Great Fred. The Wild Knights and Ex-Mutants expel the invaders.<ref>''Ex-Mutants'' Vol. 1, #2 (1987). Amazing Comics.</ref> The Ex-Mutants discover that they are vulnerable to the external radiation and decided to return to the laboratory of Cugat. In the ruins of Brooklyn, Great Fred captures Dr. Cugat and tries to execute him in public. The Ex-Mutants arrived in time and confront Fred, with help of Zack and his Wild Knights. The attack on Great Fred provokes a rebellion in his mutant subjects. The tyrant is toppled and killed and the Ex-Mutants are put in lab tubes to restore their health.<ref>''Ex-Mutants'' Vol. 1, #3-4 (1987). Amazing Comics.</ref>

In the aftermath, Dr. Cugat takes control of the mutant city and incite a new religion, with the Ex-Mutants as gods, to secure his rulership. When they are reawakened, they are uncomfortable with the new treatment. When Dr. Cugat kills a Great Fred partisan, the Ex-Mutants abandon him.<ref>''Ex-Mutants'' Vol. 1, #5-6 (1987). Pied Piper Comics/Eternity Comics.</ref> They return to the Wild Knights village but discover that it was destroyed by a mutant warlord called Frog. Frog captures them and jailed them with the Wild Knights.<ref>''Ex-Mutants'' Vol. 1, #7 (1987). Pied Piper Comics/Eternity Comics.</ref> Distressed by the failure of his project, Dr. Cugat snaps, rescues his children from Frog and decides to destroy them and the city of Brooklyn with a Russian nuclear bomb.<ref>''Ex-Mutants'' Vol. 1, #8 (1987). Pied Piper Comics.</ref>

The series was described as a light-hearted post-nuclear adventure series according to author Lawrence in a 2004 interview in the webzine ''QRD''.<ref>{{cite magazine |url=http://www.silbermedia.com/qrd/archives/28davidlawrence.html |date=November 2004 |title=David Lawrence interview |last=Mitchell |first=Brian John |website=QRD |publisher=Silber Media |issue=28}}</ref>

===Shattered Earth ===
After a legal battle, [[Malibu Comics]] continued the story with ''Ex-Mutants: The Shattered Earth Chronicles''. It is revealed that the atomic bomb that destroyed Brooklyn, was a special dimensional bomb, sending the Ex-Mutants and Dr. Cugat to different dimensions. After a time in the Samora dimension, the Ex-Mutants returned to Earth with the assistance of an alien mentor, Simak. They were on a mission to redeem humanity. They found a pair of mutants, father and son, called Chaney and Duff, who become their companions. Lorelei was left behind in Samora, to train and expand her latent psychic powers and help in the bringing of civilization to Earth. Meanwhile, Dr. Cugat went to a hellish dimension, Acarnania, where he is further mutated, but he also meets his New Ex-Mutants, that were also mutated by the bomb.<ref>''Ex-Mutants: The Shattered Earth Chronicles'' Vol. 1, #1 (1988). Eternity Comics.</ref> On Earth, the Ex-Mutants toppled a tyrant that acted like an executive for a murderous variant of beisbol.<ref>''Ex-Mutants: The Shattered Earth Chronicles'' Vol. 1, #2 (1988). Eternity Comics.</ref> They also entered the domain of a warlord called Baron Wasteland and battled the Sorcerer Dahlgren, brother of Simak. Dahlgren called for assistance from Dr. Cugat who wanted to destroy his old children. Dahlgreen transported Cugat and his minions to Earth. In the battle for the tower of Dahlgren, Baron Wasteland and the sorcerer Dahlgren were killed. Dr. Cugat fell in a bottomless pit after confronting his "son and daughters" and becoming very disappointed with them. Simak became infected with a disease provoked by his brother and died.<ref>''Ex-Mutants: The Shattered Earth Chronicles'' Vol. 1, #6-11 (1988). Eternity Comics.</ref> In spirit, he also expressed disappointment about the Ex-Mutants.<ref>''Ex-Mutants: The Shattered Earth Chronicles'' Vol. 1, #13 (1988). Eternity Comics.</ref> The Ex-Mutants settled down in the Baron's Domain, but did nothing to improve the situation, until Lorelei returned from Samora to recreate civilization in a consumerism manner.<ref>''Ex-Mutants: The Shattered Earth Chronicles'' Vol. 1, #15 (1988). Eternity Comics.</ref>

Meanwhile, Zack and the rest of the Wild Knights tries to found a new place to live, going into the Great Plains. They meet a genocidal religious cult called the Red Kross, led by a self proclaimed prophet called Mercy, who tried to kill everyone on Earth. The Wild Knights escaped from Mercy, but had to confront him and his followers once again. Mercy planned to use the remaining atomic bombs to annihilate all life on Earth. The series ended before the last confrontation.<ref>''Wild knights'' Vol. 1, #1-10 (1988). Eternity Comics.</ref>

===Malibu Comics===
Malibu Comics rebooted the Ex-mutants series with a new setting in 1992. In this version of Ex-Mutants, there were three males (Dillon, Ackroyd and Bud) and three females (Shannon, Piper and Tanya). These six were mutants who were gathered by robotic-looking cyborg Professor Kildare and turned into humans. They fought against a local warlord called Sluggo, who was treating other mutants like slaves.<ref>''Ex-Mutants'' Vol. 2, #1-4 (1992). Malibu Comics.</ref> Ackroyd and Shannon were the playable characters in the Sega Genesis game.

This second version of the characters did a crossover with the Protectors Universe (Earth-1136), through ''the Genesis'' event. The town of Sluggtown and the Ex-Mutants were transported to that reality.<ref>''Ex-Mutants'' Vol. 2, #13-15 (1993). Malibu Comics.</ref> They also joined the Protectors in their last battles.<ref>''Protectors'' #19-20 (1994). Malibu Comics.</ref>

Within the [[Multiverse (Marvel Comics)|Marvel Comics multiverse]], the original ''Shattered Earth'' was designated as Earth-68463. The rebooted Universe was given the number Earth-29245.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Numbered realities|url=http://www.marvunapp.com/master/earthteaz.htm#numbered |access-date=2025-02-03 |website=UPI |language=en}}</ref>

== Titles related to Shattered Earth ==
{| class="wikitable collapsible"
|-
! style="vertical-align:bottom; width:210px;"| Title
! style="vertical-align:bottom; width:85px;" class="unsortable"| Issues
! style="vertical-align:bottom; width:100px;"| Initial cover date
! style="vertical-align:bottom; width:100px;"| Final cover date
! style="vertical-align:bottom;" class="unsortable"| Notes
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| ''Ex-Mutants'' vol. 1
| #1
| 1986
|
| First issue published by [[Eternity Comics]].
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| ''Ex-Mutants'' vol. 1
| #2-5
| 1987
| 1987
| Issues published by [[Sunrise Distribution|Amazing Comics]].
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| ''Lawrence & Lim's Ex-Mutants''
| #6-8
| 1987
| 1987
| Issues published by [[Pied Piper Comics]]. The issues #6 and #7 were reprinted by [[Malibu Comics]], Eternity Imprint.
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| ''Lawrence & Lim's Ex-Mutants Microseries: Erin ''
| #1
| 1987
| 1987
| Issue published by Pied Piper Comics, it consisted of a solo adventure featuring heroine named Erin. The story was reprinted in ''Solo Ex-Mutants'' #1.
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| ''Ex-Mutants: The Special Edition''
| #1
| 1987
| 1987
| Reprinting the first issue by Amazing Comics, with an expanded version of 40 pages.
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| ''Ex-Mutants Annual''
| #1
| 1988
|
| Published by Malibu Comics by its Eternity imprint.
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| ''Ex-Mutants Pin-up Book''
| #1
| 1988
|
| One-shot special, published by Malibu Comics by its Eternity imprint.
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| ''Ex-Mutants Winter Special''
| #1
| 1988
|
| One-shot published by Malibu Comics by its Eternity imprint.
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| ''Ex-Mutants The Shattered Earth Chronicles''
| #1
| 1988
|
| Ongoing series published by Malibu Comics by its Eternity imprint.
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| ''Ninja''
| #1-12
| 1986
| 1988
| Independent comic published by Eternity Comics and later by Malibu. In it issue #11, it was established that this comic happened ''before'' the nuclear war mentioned in the ''Ex-Mutants'' series, joining both series in the same continuity.
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| ''Ninja Special''
| #1
| 1987
| 1987
| One-shot special of the Ninja series, that happens in the middle of the story of that series.
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| ''Solo Ex-Mutants''
| #1-6
| 1988
| 1989
| Published by Malibu Comics by its Eternity imprint.
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| ''The New Humans''
| #1-3
| 1987
| 1987
| Ongoing series, published by Pied Piper Comics.
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| ''The New Humans''
| #1-15
| 1987
| 1989
| Ongoing series, published by Malibu Comics by its Eternity imprint (first three issues are reprints of the Pied Piper series).
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| ''New Humans Annual - The Shattered Earth Chronicles''
| #1
| 1989
|
| Annual of ''The New Humans'', published by Malibu Comics by its Eternity imprint.
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| ''Shattered Earth''
| #1-9
| 1988
| 1989
| Ongoing series, published by Malibu Comics by its Eternity imprint.
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| ''Wild Knights''
| #1-10
| 1988
| 1988
| Unfinished series, published by Malibu Comics by its Eternity imprint.
|}

==References==
{{Reflist}}

==External links==
* [https://archive.today/20240527214015/https://www.webcitation.org/6iZ2RDoKw?url=http://toonopedia.com/exmutnts.htm ''Ex-Mutants''] at [[Don Markstein's Toonopedia]].
* [https://archive.today/20240527214015/https://www.webcitation.org/6iZ2RDoKw?url=http://toonopedia.com/exmutnts.htm Archived] from the original on June 26, 2016.
* [https://comicvine.gamespot.com/shattered-earth/4015-57989/ Shattered Earth]

{{Ultraverse}}
{{Marvel Multiverse}}

[[Category:1986 comics debuts]]
[[Category:1994 comics endings]]
[[Category:Eternity Comics titles]]
[[Category:Post-apocalyptic comics]]
[[Category:Marvel Comics adapted into video games]]

Strangers in Paradise

2025-05-12T20:37:13Z

141.136.167.114:

{{Short description|American comic book series by Terry Moore}}
{{About|the comic book series||Stranger in Paradise (disambiguation){{!}}Stranger in Paradise}}
{{Infobox comic book title 
| image = Strangers_in_Paradise_Pocket_Book_1_Cover_Art.jpg
| caption = Pocket book #1 cover
| schedule =
| format =
| publisher = (vol. 1) [[Antarctic Press]] (3 issues, 1993–1994) (vol. 2) Abstract Studio (14 issues, 1994–1996) (vol. 3) [[Image Comics]]/[[Homage Comics]] (8 issues, 1996–1997) Abstract Studio (82 issues, 1997–2007)
| date =
| startmo = November
| startyr = 1993
| endmo =
| endyr = 2007
| issues = 107
| main_char_team = Katina "Katchoo" Choovanski Francine Peters-Silver
| genre = Romance, slice-of-life, crime, thriller
| writers =
| artists =
| pencillers =
| inkers =
| colorists =
| creative_team_month =
| creative_team_year =
| creators = [[Terry Moore (cartoonist)|Terry Moore]]
| TPB = I Dream of You
| ISBN = 1-892597-01-2
| TPB1 = High School!
| ISBN1 =
| TPB2 = Immortal Enemies
| ISBN2 =
| TPB3 = It's a Good Life
| ISBN3 =
| TPB4 = Love Me Tender
| ISBN4 =
| TPB5 = Sanctuary
| ISBN5 =
}}

'''''Strangers in Paradise''''' is a [[Creator ownership in comics|creator-owned]] comic book series, written and drawn by [[Terry Moore (cartoonist)|Terry Moore]], which debuted in 1993. Principally the story of a [[love triangle]] between two women and one man, ''Strangers in Paradise'' began as a [[Slice of life|slice-of-life]] [[dramedy]] that later expanded to incorporate aspects of the [[crime fiction|crime]] and [[Thriller (genre)|thriller genres]]. Moore has remained the sole creator throughout the run, with the exception of a [[superhero]] [[dream sequence]] drawn by [[Jim Lee]] that opens Volume 3, issue #1. The artwork was originally presented in Moore's distinctive black-and-white style, aside from two full colour dream sequences, which included the aforementioned superhero panels.

The majority of the run has been published under Moore's creator-owned imprint, Abstract Studio. The first issue was published in November 1993, and the original series reached its planned conclusion in 2007 with issue #90 of Volume 3.<ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.cbr.com/strangers-no-more-as-moore-brings-strangers-in-paradise-to-an-end/ |first=George A. |last=Tramountanas |website=[[Comic Book Resources]] |date=March 17, 2006 |title=Strangers No More, as Moore Brings 'Strangers in Paradise' to an End |access-date=April 1, 2023}}</ref>

In 2012, Moore announced a ''Strangers in Paradise'' novel at [[San Diego Comic-Con]].<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.comicbookresources.com/?page=article&id=39734 |title=Terry Moore Announces New 'SIP' Story and All-Ages Comic Project |first=Andy |last=Liegl |website=[[Comic Book Resources]] |date=July 12, 2012 |access-date=December 7, 2014}}</ref>

In 2018, Moore officially revived the series as ''Strangers in Paradise XXV'' for the 25th anniversary.

==Origins and publication history ==
[[Terry Moore (cartoonist)|Terry Moore]] stated that "I started out wanting to do a newspaper strip, and tried one idea after another before I realised I hated the [[gag-a-day]] life and really wanted to try a story instead". The story he chose to tell turned out to be ''Strangers in Paradise'', or "this story about 2 girls and a guy who gets to know them" (from Moore's introduction to ''The Collected Strangers in Paradise, Volume One''), which used characters he had developed during his time on the gag-a-day circuit. For example, Katchoo appears as a "happy-go-lucky wood nymph" in an early strip by Moore about an enchanted forest. These strips were collected into two [[trade paperback (comics)|trade paperbacks]], but they did not include three issues. Because of this, the entire run was later published in one large paperback edition entitled ''The Complete Paradise Too''.<ref>[http://www.terrymooreart.com/blog/?p=915 Terry Moore's blog] {{Webarchive|url=https://archive.today/20120911172752/http://www.terrymooreart.com/blog/?p=915|date=2012-09-11}}</ref> This volume can be considered the true origin of Katchoo, Francine and the ''Strangers in Paradise'' universe.

''SiP'', as it is commonly known, began as a three-issue miniseries published by [[Antarctic Press]] in 1993, which focused entirely on the relationship between the three main characters and Francine's unfaithful boyfriend. This is now known as "Volume 1". Thirteen issues were published under Moore's own "Abstract Studio" imprint, and these make up "Volume 2". This is where the "thriller" plot was introduced. The series moved to [[Image Comics]]' Homage imprint for the start of "Volume 3", but after eight issues moved back to Abstract Studio, where it continued with the same numbering. Volume 3 concluded at issue #90, released on June 6, 2007.

Moore revived the series as ''Strangers in Paradise XXV'' in 2018 for the 25th anniversary. The new miniseries included characters and elements from Moore's other works, ''[[Echo (comic book)|Echo]]'', ''[[Rachel Rising]]'', and ''[[Motor Girl]]''.

==Plot==
The story is centered on the stormy, lifelong relationship between two women, Francine Helena Peters and Katina Marie ("Katchoo") Choovanski, and their friend David Qin. Francine considers Katchoo her best, oldest friend. Katchoo makes no secret of her romantic attraction to Francine, creating tension each time Francine remains wary of fully committing to her. Meanwhile, Katchoo herself is deeply conflicted when David professes his love for her, as adamantly as she has declared her own love for Francine.

The love triangle later expands to a love rectangle with the introduction of Casey Bullock, who marries Francine's ex-boyfriend Freddie Femur (on the rebound from Francine) early in the series and later divorces him, then goes on to pursue both David and Katchoo.

Flashbacks and flash-forwards reveal more about the characters as the love story alternates with mystery, danger and intrigue, most of it stemming from Katchoo's past as an [[Minor (law)|underage]] [[call girl]] who was taken in by David's [[lesbian]] sister, Darcy Parker (David's connection to Darcy only comes to light after he enters Katchoo's life). Darcy puts her "Parker Girls" to work for the shadowy Big Six organization, an international crime syndicate with influence over the world of politics. The Parker Girls are highly trained women, weaponized on targeted assignments by Darcy and the Big Six to control, manipulate, spy upon, and ultimately kill men and women in positions of power and authority.

==Characters==
;Katina "Katchoo" Choovanski: Katchoo (occasionally referred to as "The Original Angry Blonde" by fans of the series) is a temperamental artist with a violent past. A former prostitute, Katchoo was the lover and [[Agency (philosophy)|agent]] of Darcy Parker. Katchoo has been in love with her best friend, Francine, for most of her life, though she has complicated romantic feelings for her only male friend, David, as well. Katchoo was ranked 69th in ''[[Comics Buyer's Guide]]''{{'}}s "100 Sexiest Women in Comics" list.<ref>{{cite book | last = Frankenhoff | first = Brent | author-link = Brent Frankenhoff | title = Comics Buyer's Guide Presents: 100 Sexiest Women in Comics | publisher = [[Krause Publications]] | year = 2011 | page = 46 | isbn = 978-1-4402-2988-6}}</ref>
;Francine Helena Peters-Silver: Katchoo's kind-hearted best friend, Francine struggles with her weight and her [[self-image]], never quite able to see the beauty in herself that Katchoo is enamored with. Francine has difficulty bringing herself to make a romantic commitment to Katchoo, partly due to her [[Methodist]] upbringing and partly because of her childhood dream to become a wife and mother. Her [[Fairytale fantasy|fairytale]] marriage to Brad Silver comes crashing down when she realizes that he is unfaithful to her, leading her to reconsider choosing him over Katchoo. Francine was ranked 86th in ''Comics Buyer's Guide''{{'}} "100 Sexiest Women in Comics" list.<ref>Frankenhoff p. 54</ref>
;Yousaka Takahashi/David Qin: A gentle, sensitive art student, Yousaka is the younger brother of Darcy Parker and the unwilling heir to the Takahashi crime syndicate. Once the leader of a violent street gang, Yousaka became a [[born-again Christian]] after a personal tragedy and he changed his name to "David Qin" to reflect his new identity and honoring the young man he murdered. The complex romantic feelings he harbors for Casey and Katchoo come to a head when he is diagnosed with a serious illness, leading the trio to contemplate having a baby in his memory.
;Casey Bullock-Femur: A blonde, busty, and [[bisexual]] [[aerobics]] instructor, Casey was married to Freddie Femur but divorced him after learning that he was still in love with Francine. Since the divorce, she has had romantic involvements with both Katchoo and David. Because of her childhood anorexia, she is unable to have a child with David.
;Freddie Femur: Francine's ex-boyfriend, Casey's ex-husband, and a womanizing attorney, Freddie cheated on Francine and humiliated her during their break-up (giving her a nervous breakdown in the process) but later becomes obsessed with her.
;Darcy Parker: A ruthless and predatory crime boss who leads the "Parker Girls", women who are skilled in various acts of seduction and espionage. Though she employs only women and expresses a profound abhorrence of the male gender itself, Darcy harbors an intense, incestuous love for her brother David. She had a relationship with Katchoo (and benefited from Katchoo's natural business acumen) until Katchoo ran away to Hawaii with her friend Emma. Darcy and the Parker Girls continue to re-enter and complicate Katchoo's life throughout the series.
;Mary Beth "Tambi" Baker: A brutal enforcer loyal to Darcy Parker, Tambi is skilled in not only the deadly arts, but in business and strategy. She and her twin sister Sara Beth ("Bambi") both work for Darcy and are Katchoo's older half-sisters. In a quest to continue the Baker (and Parker) line, Tambi schemes to encourage Katchoo to bear David's child. Tambi's many scars are self-inflicted.
;Griffin Silver: An aging [[rock music|rock]] star admired by Katchoo in her youth, Griffin's songs were printed in the series long before the character made his first appearance. He is the brother of Brad Silver.
;Brad Silver: A charming, handsome [[gynecologist]], Brad at first appears to be an ideal husband for Francine, but their inability to communicate drives a wedge between them.

==Awards==
The series received the [[Eisner Award]] for Best Serialized Story in 1996 for "I Dream of You" as well as the [[National Cartoonists Society]] [[Reuben Award]] for Best Comic Book in 2003. It also won the [[GLAAD Media Awards|GLAAD Award]] for Best Comic Book in 2001.

==Collected editions==
{{Lacking ISBN|section|date=January 2011}}
''Strangers in Paradise'' has been collected into a series of full-size [[trade paperback (comics)|trade paperbacks]], hardback collections, and smaller format paperback collections. These reprints collect the issues into different sets.

The full-size paperback collections to date are:
{|class="wikitable"
|-
!#!!Title!!Issues
|-
|1
|''The Collected Strangers in Paradise''
|Vol. 1, #1–3
|-
|2
|''I Dream of You''
|Vol. 2, #1–9
|-
|3
|''It's a Good Life''
|Vol. 2, #10–13
|-
|4
|''Love Me Tender''
|Vol. 3, #1–5
|-
|5
|''Immortal Enemies''
|Vol. 3, #6–12
|-
|6
|''High School!''
|Vol. 3, #13–16
|-
|7
|''Sanctuary''
|Vol. 3, #17–24
|-
|8
|''My Other Life''
|Vol. 3, #25–30
|-
|9
|''Child of Rage''
|Vol. 3, #31–32, 34-38
|-
|10
|''Tropic of Desire''
|Vol. 3, #39–43
|-
|11
|''Brave New World''
|Vol. 3, #44–48
|-
|12
|''Heart in Hand''
|Vol. 3, #50–54
|-
|13
|''Flower to Flame''
|Vol. 3, #55–60
|-
|14
|''David's Story''
|Vol. 3, #61–63
|-
|15
|''Tomorrow Now''
|Vol. 3, #64–69
|-
|16
|''Molly & Poo''
|Vol. 2, #14, Vol. 3, #49 & 73
|-
|17
|''Tattoo''
|Vol. 3, #70–72, 74–76
|-
|18
|''Love & Lies''
|Vol. 3, #77–82
|-
|19
|''Ever After''
|Vol. 3, #83–90
|}

The hardback collections to date are:
{|class="wikitable"
|-
!#!!ISBN!!Title!!Issues
|-
|1
|{{ISBN|978-1892597052}}
|''The Complete Strangers in Paradise, Volume 1''
|Vol. 1, #1–3
|-
|2
|{{ISBN|978-1892597069}}
|''The Complete Strangers in Paradise, Volume 2''
|Vol. 2, #1–13
|-
|3
|{{ISBN|978-1892597106}}
|''The Complete Strangers in Paradise Volume 3, Part 1''
|Vol. 3, #1–12
|-
|4
|{{ISBN|978-1892597120}}
|''The Complete Strangers in Paradise Volume 3, Part 2''
|Vol. 3, #13–25, Lyrics & Poems
|-
|5
|{{ISBN|978-1892597144}}
|''The Complete Strangers in Paradise Volume 3, Part 3''
|Vol. 3, #26–32, 34–38
|-
|6
|{{ISBN|978-1892597175}}
|''The Complete Strangers in Paradise Volume 3, Part 4''
|Vol. 3, #39–46, plus 49
|-
|7
|{{ISBN|978-1892597236}}
|''The Complete Strangers in Paradise Volume 3, Part 5''
|Vol. 3, #47–48, 50–57
|-
|8
|{{ISBN|978-1892597281}}
|''The Complete Strangers in Paradise Volume 3, Part 6''
|Vol. 3, #58–69
|-
|9
|{{ISBN|978-1892597366}}
|''The Complete Strangers in Paradise Volume 3, Part 7''
|Vol. 3, #70–72, 74–82
|-
|10
|{{ISBN|978-1892597373}}
|''The Complete Strangers in Paradise Volume 3, Part 8''
|Vol. 3, #83–90
|}

The "pocket book" collections to date are:
{|class="wikitable"
|-
!#
!ISBN
!Title!!Issues
|-
|1
|{{ISBN|978-1-892597-26-7}}
|''Strangers in Paradise Pocket Book 1''
|Vol. 1, #1–3 and Vol. 2, #1–13
|-
|2
|{{ISBN|978-1-892597-29-8}}
|''Strangers in Paradise Pocket Book 2''
|Vol. 3, #1–17
|-
|3
|{{ISBN|978-1-892597-30-4}}
|''Strangers in Paradise Pocket Book 3''
|Vol. 3, #18–24, 26–32, 34–38
|-
|4
|{{ISBN|978-1-892597-31-1}}
|''Strangers in Paradise Pocket Book 4''
|Vol. 3, #40–45, 47–48, 50–60
|-
|5
|{{ISBN|978-1-892597-38-0}}
|''Strangers in Paradise Pocket Book 5''
|Vol. 3, #61–72, 74–76, plus Complete Molly & Poo 46, 49, 73
|-
|6
|{{ISBN|978-1-892597-39-7}}
|''Strangers in Paradise Pocket Book 6''
|Vol. 3, #77–90
|}

Other books to date are:
* ''Lyrics and Poems''
* ''Strangers in Paradise Source Book''
* ''Strangers in Paradise Treasury Edition''
* ''Strangers in Paradise'' calendars: 1999, 2000, 2002, 2003, 2004. For unknown reasons, there is no 2001 calendar.

==Merchandise==
Two limited edition statuettes of Katchoo were produced by Clayburn Moore as the first in a planned series of three statues based around the series. In the first, she is standing in a skimpy black dress, and in the second she is reclining in a bath wearing her leather jacket and holding a drink and a gun.

In 2009, [[Shocker Toys]] released a Katchoo figure as part of the first series of its "Indie Spotlight" line.<ref>{{cite web | url = http://www.oafe.net/yo/is1_katch.php | title = Indie Spotlight 1: Katchoo review}}</ref>

In 1996, a series of trading cards was released by Comic Images, consisting of a 90-card base set plus extra collector's cards, such as the 500 'autograph cards' that featured Terry Moore's signature and information on the creation of ''SiP''. These extra cards were inserted randomly into packs. Also produced was a matching ''SiP'' binder, which came with 12 9-pocket sleeves to hold the cards.

Advertised on the official ''SiP'' website are character pin badges representing Francine, Katchoo and David. There is also a black [[tote bag]] featuring the ''Strangers in Paradise'' logo and a tumbler decorated with colour panels from the series, in addition to a postcard set and two [[T-shirt]]s,<ref>{{cite web | url = http://www.strangersinparadise.com/store.html | title = Official SiP store}}</ref> although several of these items are listed as 'sold out', and are hard to come by elsewhere.

==Film adaptation==
In Autumn of 2017, [[Angela Robinson (director)|Angela Robinson]] and Moore announced a film adaptation of the comic.<ref>{{cite web|last1=Shanley|first1=Patrick|title=Angela Robinson Adapting Graphic Novel 'Strangers in Paradise' With Creator Terry Moore|url=http://www.hollywoodreporter.com/heat-vision/angela-robinson-adapting-graphic-novel-strangers-paradise-creator-terry-moore-1038733|date=13 September 2017|website=The Hollywood Reporter|access-date=23 October 2017}}</ref> Moore was working on a script for it. [[IMG Global Media]] was attached to finance the project and Robinson was attached to direct.<ref>(November 3, 2017), "[https://previewsworld.com/Article/202043-Indie-Edge-Terry-Moore Indie Edge: Terry Moore]", Previews World. Retrieved February 9, 2018</ref>

==References==
{{reflist}}

== External links ==
* [http://www.strangersinparadise.com/ ''Strangers in Paradise'' website]

{{GLAAD Media Award for Outstanding Comic Book}}

{{DEFAULTSORT:Strangers In Paradise}}
[[Category:1990s LGBTQ literature]]
[[Category:1993 comics debuts]]
[[Category:2007 comics endings]]
[[Category:Antarctic Press titles]]
[[Category:Comics publications]]
[[Category:Defunct American comics]]
[[Category:Eisner Award winners]]
[[Category:Female bisexuality in fiction]]
[[Category:Lesbian-related comics]]
[[Category:WildStorm titles]]

Seven Cities of Gold (disambiguation)

2025-05-12T12:07:04Z

141.136.167.114:

'''[[Seven Cities of Gold]]''' refers to seven cities in Spanish mythology.

It may also refer to:
* [[Seven Cities of Gold (film)|''Seven Cities of Gold'' (film)]], a 1955 historical adventure film starring Richard Egan
* [[The Seven Cities of Gold (video game)|''The Seven Cities of Gold'' (video game)]], a 1984 adventure game
* ''Seven Cities of Gold'' (book), a 2010 book by [[David Moles]]
* "Seven Cities of Gold", a track on the 2012 Rush album ''[[Clockwork Angels]]''

==See also==
* [[City of Gold (disambiguation)]]
* [[Seven Cities (disambiguation)]]

{{Disambiguation}}

The Way

2025-05-12T12:06:15Z

141.136.167.114:

'''The Way''' may refer to:
{{TOC right|limit=3}}

==Religion==
===Christian===
* A New Testament term referring to [[Christianity]], e.g. in Acts 9:2
* "The Way", a term used for the [[Two by Twos]] church, also commonly known as "Cooneyites", "Meetings", "The Truth", or "Workers and Friends"
* [[Dokai]] (Japanese: 道会, "Society of The Way"), a Japanese Christian movement founded by Matsumura Kaiseki in 1907
* The [[Way of the Cross]], a Catholic devotion to the Passion of Christ
* The Way of [[Madonna Della Strada]]
* [[The Way International]], a Christian denomination founded by Victor Paul Wierwille in 1942

===Non-Christian===
* The Way, or "[[Tao]]", of Taoism
* The Way of the Buddha Dharma, or [[Buddhism]]
* The Way of [[Shinto]]

==Arts, entertainment, and media==
===Films===
* [[The Way (2010 film)|''The Way'' (2010 film)]], American film starring Martin Sheen and directed by Emilio Estevez
* [[The Way (2017 film)|''The Way'' (2017 film)]], South-Korean film

===Music===
====Groups====
* [[The Way (Jesus music band)]], a Christian band of the early 1970s, part of the Jesus Movement
* [[The Way (punk rock band)]], an American Christian hardcore and Christian rock band founded 2010

====Albums====

* [[The Way (1973 album)|''The Way'' (1973 album)]], 1973 album by The Way
* [[The Way (Steve Lacy album)|''The Way'' (Steve Lacy album)]], a 1980 album by saxophonist Steve Lacy
* [[The Way (2009 album)|''The Way'' (2009 album)]], 2009 album by Kellie Loder
* [[The Way (Buzzcocks album)|''The Way'' (Buzzcocks album)]], 2014 album
* [[The Way (Macy Gray album)|''The Way'' (Macy Gray album)]], 2014 album

====Songs====
* [[The Way (Fastball song)|"The Way" (Fastball song)]], 1998 song released by Fastball
* [[The Way (Jill Scott song)|"The Way" (Jill Scott song)]], 2001 song released by Jill Scott
* [[The Way (Daniel Bedingfield song)|"The Way" (Daniel Bedingfield song)]], 2005 single from Daniel Bedingfield
* [[The Way (Ariana Grande song)|"The Way" (Ariana Grande song)]], 2013 song by Ariana Grande
* "[[The Way (Put Your Hand in My Hand)]]", 2003 single by Divine Inspiration
* "[[The Way/Solitaire]]", 2004 single by Clay Aiken
* "The Way", a song by CNBLUE from the album [[392 (album)|392]]
* "The Way", song by Amorphis from the album ''[[Tuonela (album)|Tuonela]]''
* "The Way", song by Annihilator from the album ''[[For the Demented]]''
* "The Way", song by Blues Traveler from the album ''[[Bridge (Blues Traveler album)|Bridge]]''
* "The Way", song by Bruce Springsteen from the album ''[[The Promise (Bruce Springsteen album)|The Promise]]''
* "The Way", song by Matchbox Twenty from the album ''[[North (Matchbox Twenty album)|North]]''
* "The Way", song by Neil Young the album from ''[[Chrome Dreams II]]''
* "The Way", song by Lynyrd Skynyrd the album from ''[[Vicious Cycle (album)|Vicious Cycle]]''

===Other arts, entertainment, and media===
* [[The Way (Escrivá book)|''The Way'' (Escrivá book)]], 1939 book on Catholic spirituality, written by Josemaría Escrivá de Balaguer
* [[The Way (Greg Bear)]], fictional universe concerning several novels by Greg Bear
* [[The Way (video game)|''The Way'' (video game)]], a video game released in 2016
* ''[[Laumeier Sculpture Park#"The Way"|The Way]]'', a 1980 sculpture by Alexander Liberman
* [[The Way (TV series)|''The Way'' (TV series)]], a 2024 British TV series
* ''The Way'', original title of ''[[The Path (TV series)|The Path]]'', an American drama web TV series (2016-2018)
* [[The Way (journal)|''The Way'' (journal)]], a Jesuit spirituality journal founded in 1961.
* [[The Way (novel)|''The Way'' (novel)]], a 1943 Japanese novella written by Taiwanese author Chen Huo-chuan

==Sports==
* [[The Way (professional wrestling)]]

==See also==
* [[Didache#The Two Ways|The Two Ways in the Didache]]
* [[That Way (disambiguation)]]
* [[Way (disambiguation)]]

{{disambiguation}}
{{DEFAULTSORT:Way, The}}