NGN FAVORITES: BATSUITS

It all really falls on my opinion of how the artists draw the iconic cape and cowl. In the live action side of things, the Batsuit has evolved and improves both in look and in function. In my opinion of course.

Comic Book:

1. 1980's and 1990's Blue & Grey
-It is what Bats was wearing when I first started reading comic books, so it sticks in my head the most. Well, until the memory goes I guess haha It is blue cape and cowl, grey suit, ad the traditional bat-logo. Although the newer blue and grey look works with a more updated symbol too.

2. The Original
-Bob Kane's initial costume is a favorite for being simply that, the original.

3.New 52
-Again, it is mainly in the artists presentation. And the peeps who've drawn Batman in the New 52 era (short as it was), did a great job of making the suit updated and appealing. With Capullo leading the way.

Live Action:

1. Batman (1989)
-It was my first, and as a kid I had no concept of function. I just thought that rubber suit looked amazing. I liked the slight upgrade for Batman Returns, but love the first. "Errant" logo and all (it wasn't, they changed things later).

2. The Dark Knight (2008)
-With a better idea of function, and of course reference within the film, the Batsuit was pretty amazing in my opinion. The neck was a bit skinny compared to the mask/head in regards to scaling. But, it didn't make for any slightly cheesy silhouettes with the ears bouncing to and throw.

3. Batman V Superman: Dawn Of Justice (2016)
-I've yet to go see it (don't ask haha), but just based on the trailers and photos, it is possibly the best one. It looks pretty darn close to the suit in The Dark Knight Returns. Initially it doesn't look like it would have good mobility, but the trailers show otherwise. I'm talking the basic suit, not the armor he dawns as well. Which is also amazing.


There are others, like a Yellow Lantern/Sinestro Corps Batman that I liked the look of, but opted to focus on the ones we see/seen more regularly. Perhaps I will list those as a "Fav Arkham Games Suits" with all the DLC's bringing a lot to life like Knightfall and Batman Beyond, which aren't on this list 'cause they aren't technically Batsuits without Bruce Wayne in 'em. Yes, I am one of THOSE people haha

NGN FAVORITES: COMIC BOOKS III-CHARACTER COSTUMES

Batman and his Batsuit is my favorite. The reason being that there are too many variations that I really like that they need their own list. Plus, Batman is my top hero so I am being majorly bias here of course haha Keep an eye out for that in the future though. Although I have my favorites, I do like characters who have evolved their looks and costumes over time. Even the best can get stale.

Spider-Man

-A lot of variations nowadays, but it wasn't always like that. There was a time when it was the traditional, a cosmic one which was the same as the regular, but had webbing in the armpits haha And of course the black. Black is my all-time favorite Spider-Man costume, even as a non-symbiote the basic black and white work well in comic books. Followed by the Spider-Man 2099 get-up, and of the newer styles I really like the looks of the Spider-Man Noir and Future Foundation versions.

Cyclops

-Another Marvel character that has had many styles and looks over the years. Only the visor has generally remained the same, with the exception of that "X". My favorite is from the early 90's, with the blue and yellow sans hood. It just looked like what a leader and soldier would wear when I was a kid, and seemed to almost perfectly complement both Jean Grey's and some other X-Men's general uniform pallet at that time as well. Not a fan of them with Cyclops, but if I had to pick from the "hooded" looks, I'd go with the original. His powers were all that separated him from the flock and that "X" visor looks pretty cool to I must admit.

Spawn

-Fellow Canadian Todd McFarlane struck gold when he created Spawn. The mask and eyes, the chains, the cape. Head to toe I like the look of this one. Even when the mask is removed, we get a gross, but great look of Al Simmons after his death. A look that hasn't needed to change really, plus I am not an avid reader so I haven't grown bored with it haha

Catwoman

-It is one of the hardest looks to pull off in the real world. Sorry ladies, but most of the time the ears just don't look right. I can't explain it. Halle Berry's mask doesn't count, as it doesn't look right period. Back to the print, where my favorite Catwoman costume in comic books is in the New 52 era. It just looks like it would actually work, it fits the base of the character (a cat burglar/thief), and isn't too revealing when not drawn that way haha A close second is the purple suit with long black hair hanging out the back of the mask, and black thigh high boots. Just looks great to me. If there is a comic book version of Michelle Pfeiffer's costume, then that would be a definite second but maybe the tops haha

The Joker

-The costume has generally stayed the same, purple suit, but there have been slight variations and other outfits. And his general appearance has evolved over time (face, hair, grin, etc). I can't really pick a top favorite, but the clowns fighting for top spot are...from the 1980's and 90's being when I got into comic books so it holds down in my memory and Joker obsession haha, "Joker" graphic novel, which is a comic version of Ledger. From the New 52 era with the mechanic outfit and "face strapped and stapled back on" look and the "new" look. One was sick in both meanings of the word, the other similar to what we'll see in the upcoming Suicide Squad movie (sans ink....which I like to be honest).

I dawned on me after I was finished that there are two Batman characters in the mix, but that's ok haha I said a separate posting would be for just Batman, and really the people within Gotham have the better looks in DC Comics. But, again I am pretty bias in this case haha

NGN FAVORITES: COMIC BOOKS II-ARTISTS & WRITERS

If we took the greatest artist and the greatest writer. We put them in a room together and asked them to create a masterpiece together. Want to know what they would make? A comic book. Neal Adams had a quote (that I can't remember exactly or find of course) that said the same thing. And it is true. With equal showing of each persons ability, a comic book would be exactly that. In the comic book world, generally speaking, the artist gets the credit for great comic books. It is the art that draws (no intended pun, but meh) people in, and the stories are what keeps them coming back. Although I must admit, artwork that isn't of my own preference can severely take away from a story. I've seen perfect "wordless" comic books, that told the story without them, but even then somebody had to write a story for the artist to follow. The true under valued are the inkers, colorists, and letterers haha

Writers

• Scott Snyder
• Todd McFarlane
• Fabian Nicieza
• Geoff Johns
• Alan Moore
• Frank Miller

Loved Snyder's run on Batman in the New 52 era, on all levels really. Character portrayals, revamped origins, all of the story arcs from Court Of Owls to Zero Year, and all in between and beyond. Only got a taste of Spawn, but I liked it and of course credit goes to fellow Canadian (just found that out haha), Todd McFarlane. Fabian was part of my my childhood with his work on X-Men. Although he overdoes them, Geoff Johns has created a Green Lantern, and now Justice League world that was...is?....New 52 Green Lantern and Justice League was good reads haha Moore and Miller are almost mandatory in some circles haha Watchmen, Swamp Thing, The Dark Knight Rises, Sin City, 300, the list goes on.

Artists

• Adam Kubert
• Andy Kubert
• Alex Ross
• Greg Capullo
• Todd McFarlane
• Jim Lee

I've mentioned in previous postings about having no Batman, then finding Marvel Comics and loving their universe, most notably the X-Men. That is how the Kubert brothers make their way in, and stay even today. Ironically there is some Kubert material in what I returned to, Batman. Alex Ross' work is flawless, I just wished his style would include all the looks and not just the classics. Capullo on Spawn and of course Batman during the New 52. Jim Lee and fellow Canuck, Todd McFarlane have actually gotten even better than when I was a young kid reading Marvel and the seeing the launching of Image and WildStorm.

No shocker that this is another ever evolving list. But, these will always remain in at least a Top 50 or 100 situation. Sometimes the era and the technology impacted and hindered some peoples art abilities. And of course censorship may have held both writers and artists back from unleashing their true talents.

NGN FAVORITES: COMIC BOOKS

What happens to be the Non-Geeky Nerds' favorite comic book and characters? Well, I am glad you asked haha It doesn't really vary from what I assume to be either a general fans or a fanboys. A matter of opinion I guess. I don't really care, as I like what I like. So here it all it...

Fav Comic Books As A Kid

• Batman
• Detective Comics
• X-Men
• Uncanny X-Men
• X-Force
• X-Factor
• The Amazing Spider-Man
• Spider-Man
• The Spectacular Spider-Man
• Web Of Spider-Man

I had a couple other comic books, but it was Batman (1989) that got me to really take a look at them. Startd with just Batman, then I moved to the east coast. Where I lived, there wasn't any Batman on the shelves at the stores, so I got into Marvel. Mainly X-Men, but I did like my exposure to Spider-Man and company as well. A friend I had at the time, was able to get his hands on Batman titles though, so I didn't completely miss out on Knightfall. Which I went on to later collect (single issues) as an adult.

Fav Comic Book Characters As A Kid

• Batman/Bruce Wayne
• The Joker
• Bane
• Wolverine
• Cable
• Havok
• Gambit
• Bishop
• Spider-Man
• Venom

Like I said, it started with Batman and his rogues gallery. Like most, The Joker stood out to me. But, so did KBGBeast for some reason, but beyond a cover I don't remember that much. But, then I discovered Marvel. Like most, I gravitated towards Wolverine. Hard to avoid, being Canadian and all. Bishop had the sickest mullet haha Venom was another obvious, but Carnage could have/should have been included, but left him off because I hadn't read much about him beyond Maximum Carnage. Bane broke the bat. 'Nuff said.

Then, unlike other things there is a gap for my teen years. Moved back to central Canada but, where I was at least, there wasn't even any comic books for sale at the stores. There was a comic book shop for a very brief period, but that was mainly back issues. I kept drawing, watching movies, but beyond that comic books disappeared from my life for a period.

Fav Comic Books As An Adult

• Batman
• Detective Comics
• Justice League
• Green Lantern
• Harley Quinn
• Red Lanterns
• Batman Inc.
• Robin: Son Of Batman
• Batgirl
• Catwoman

Fav Comic Book Characters As An Adult

• Batman/Bruce Wayne
• Robin/Damian Wayne
• The Joker
• Harley Quinn
• Two-Face
• Catwoman
• Poison Ivy
• Bane
• Scarecrow
• The Riddler

As you can see, it is Batman through and through, well I njoy The Joker and other villains the most, but you get it. I even named my youngest after Harley Quinn to emphasize the point haha I actually enjoyed the New 52, unlike many, but I used it to get back into and my oldest starting into comic books. Plus, I really liked some of the revamps of Bat-villain backstories. Made them updated, but still "work" and not annihilate the characters.

COMIC BOOK VIDEO GAMES: STILL WAITING

It is the age of the comic book nerd in entertainment right now. Television has been had a jump in number of comic book shows that are on with Arrow, The Flash, The Walking Dead, Marvel's Agents Of SHIELD, Daredevil, quite a few others and more in the works. Movies always had a comic book presence, just not at the rate we have seen the last decade. And DC Comics is just now truly adding to the mix so combined with everything Marvel is putting out, there is a lot of movies.

You would think that video games would also be right up there in terms of quantity. Quality is improving with each passing console I must add, but there needs to be an increase in numbers for sure.It is hard to believe that with the success of the Batman: Arkham franchise, DC Comics didn't jump at expanding its empire within the video game world. Same can be said with Marvel, who of the two tends to be the merchandising machine, but not the case here. Not that anyone is asking for games that are basically video game versions of the movies, but something based on them. Spider-Man 1-3 did this early with free-roaming capabilities and only similarities with the movies. Everything else was almost its own video game universe loaded with comic book universe references. Why not do this with The Avengers universe that has unfolded? Either a collective or individual games. There are so many characters within both DC and Marvel's worlds that would almost work instantly in the styling of Batman: Arkham franchise. Green Arrow, The Flash from top of my head for DC Comics if we are eliminating flying capabilities. The Punisher, Spider-Man, and Deadpool for Marvel. Deadpool was recently re-released on PS4 (picture was a happy accident that was left as is haha), but it was an older PS3 game, and some upgrades would make for an epic game. Visually and story line. Add Ryan Reynolds as the voice. Might be gold.

I am sure there is a valid reason for the lack of presence by comic books in the video game market. Or perhaps they are in the works given the success in other fields. I am itching for something, given that I haven't come across anything saying there will be more Batman games with Batman: Arkham Knight being the final chapter of the Arkham franchise. Would love to see perhaps a villain version. The Joker and others. Just saying.

HAPPY

 EASTER!

A WTF GOES OUT TO DC COMICS

Rebirth. Another relaunch? If Dan Dido and Jim Lee want to be like Marvel so bad, just jump ship already. In regards to comic books, it was the only valid statement in a DC v Marvel conversation. DC Comics had relaunched/renumbered just the one time, where Marvel seemed to do it quite often. Haven't seen anything that has verified this, but if the rumors are true, I am not happy about that haha

I understand some of the possible reasons I have come across. Shows like Arrow and The Flash bringing in new fans, and wanting a product that is similar to that of the television show. It happened to me with Green Lantern. I watched the movie in 2011, didn't mind it at all, then began to read the comic books. Yes, I enjoyed Ryan Reynolds' Green Lantern. I am thinking it is because I was only aware of the character, because I will admit now that the comic book is better and understand why that franchise is in reboot mode. I got into the comic book version and didn't expect things to be the same as the movie. A lot of people seem to forget that the shows/movies are adaptations of the comic books. I only point this out as I am curious as to what Dan and Jim have planned if their other forms of media become flops and failures? Rumors have it that Supergirl and Legends Of Tomorrow are up in the air in regards to there being second seasons.
In all honest, DC Comics should have done one of two things. First, they shouldn't have revamped and simply renumbered. Their top titles like Detective Comics, Batman, etc were approaching issue number 1000. Issue number 1001, should have been 1. They didn't do this so, secondly, they should have had a unshakable commitment to what they were doing. Some titles throughout the New 52 era, weren't in print long enough to really get any traction and make sense of things. They did  show commitment, just in the wrong way. Convergence took over for a couple of months, which for some people meant that if you weren't interested in the storyline, then you were left with nothing to read. When did they decide to not simply do as they always have done and simply made a new temporary title that tied into other permanent titles. I usually try to be pro-DC Comics all the time, but this is a hard one. As a Batman fan (ya, ya typical of me right?) I now have to deal with Scott Snyder and Greg Capullo leaving the title, then whatever DC Comics decides to do with the goddamn Batman and his soiree of characters. The only saving grace is that Snyders' replacement is James Tynion IV, who we've been given tastes of his writing style throughout Snyder's run on Batman. And also, what happens to the good things that came from the New 52 relaunch? Again with Batman, I enjoyed some of the villains backstories being updated (Mr. Freeze, Scarecrow, etc).

I am sure everything will be good. Just a matter of overlooking this almost comic book cliche of relaunches, and revamps. I enjoy movies and television shows too, I just don't expect the comic books to be the ones to change and mirror the live action. Save that for new titles that are separate from the main comic book universe. I didn't read the Smallville comic books, but thought that they were an amazing idea. I enjoyed Batman '66 for a brief period, and have been wanting a Batman (1989) series. Perhaps it is time for some change atop DC Comics. Till next time, stay Nerdy!

THIS MOVIE HAD BETTER BE GOOD

Which movie? That would be "Batman V Superman: Dawn Of Justice". Not just because of the hype or the cast, those are important of course, but because I have been waiting since 2013 for this film. The film that launched this movieverse was "Man Of Steel", and I am one of those who really enjoyed the film. So much so, that I immediately awaited a sequel.

Technically, "Batman V Superman: Dawn Of Justice" isn't a sequel to "Man Of Steel", but it is the follow-up. The sequel will apparently come out later, which is somewhat weird but could kind of work in my head. Perhaps have the "stand-alone" movies be of the prequel nature, and the "Justice League" movies will be now/future. Which I hope is the case for Ben Affleck's Batman. I'll have to see his portrayal in "Batman V Superman: Dawn Of Justice", but at this moment in time I prefer a story with a younger Batman.
Of course, the "hype" and cast side of things plays into it. This is really DC Comics launch of a larger movieverse to if not compete with, than draw comparisons with Marvel's. "Man Of Steel" was first, but this is an all-star line-up and big screen debuts for some fan favorite characters. Wonder Woman, Aquaman, Cyborg, Flash, Batman, Superman, among other supporting characters. As for the "baddies", we got Lex Luthor and a reincarnated Zod turned Doomsday thus far. And something to do with Darkseid, the scope of his appearance is unknown.
I can't leave out how I hope "Suicide Squad"is a success as well. Perhaps just as much as "Batman V Superman: Dawn Of Justice", as I am somewhat of a Joker and Harley Quinn fan. This will be Jared Leto and Margot Robbie bringing my favorite crazies to life within this movieverse, and I am hoping Leto hurts the egos of the haters really....really....bad. So far, things look great. From the clips I have seen, Margot has owned the role of Harley Quinn. I understand the "ink" arguments with Leto, however if The Joker were real and alive today he would have some ink. Perhaps not as much, but the crazy clown would likely welcome the pain, and the pain of having them removed. And of course repeating the process. The closing argument would be that The Joker's psyche has so many layers, who is anyone to say that this (like those who proceeded him) isn't one of them?

I've been a good boy and took a wait and see approach to all of this. Think Ben Affleck and Jared Leto were the first names to come to mind for Batman and The Joker? Absolutely
not, but have taken like I said the wait and see approach hoping to be rewarded. So far, so good. Just hoping the trailers and ads weren't the high points as it tends to be with some movies.

COMIC BOOK MOVIE STUFF POOR MAN'S STYLE...AND THAT'S OK!

Sure, there are the trailers, tv spots (commercial to talk show) and general merchandise (toys, etc) that come with almost every movie. Occasionally there are collector cups at the theaters or 7-11, but that is about it. At least with "Batman V Superman: Dawn Of Justice" coming out soon, there has been some added collector items released for all fans alike, casual to hardcore.

Of course there is the cereal and the collector boxes it comes in. And surprisingly, they aren't bad at all. Personally, Batman (Chocolate Strawberry) is tops with milk, while Superman (Caramel Crunch) is a really good dry snack. And even though it wasn't like the apparent "celeb editions" with capes and mask, the boxes are somewhat visually appealing and displayable. For those who like display their interests.
Another thing has been with Dr. Pepper and collector cans. The set of 5 includes Batman, Superman, Wonder Woman, Lex Luthor, and Lois Lane. If you haven't tried Dr. Pepper before I would be amazed (if you live in Canada or USA that is), for me is in my Top 3 soft drinks. I haven't collected pop cans since Star Wars Ep. I with Pepsi products, which I don't have anymore due to a period of unemployment and being thirsty haha, but have immediately jumped back into. I am pretty sure my nerdism is exposed when I am trying to spin the cans within the case to see who it is but after getting back to back Lex Luthor's I had no choice. So far I have Bats, Supes, and as mentioned Lex. Just the ladies left to go, and preferably a non-diet can with Superman on it so that my brain doesn't itch.
It will be interesting to see if Suicide Squad gets to join in on the fun later in the year. Hopefully other Justice League characters join in near its release date as well. Although I don't see the cereal expanding beyond Batman and Superman, although possible, it is easy to see the collector cans growing in numbers.

Now perhaps this is the norm in the USA, up here in Canada we tend to get snubbed with things. And these things are awesome as there isn't really a social status things at all (sorry, but the cost of statues and whatnot can be insane).

TRYING TO BLOG

I keep approaching this as if it is an article and not a blog entry. Reason being is I did attempt to make a mini-site combining various blog pages (can find it HERE). The only real difference the replacing "we" with "I". So, since that is how I am supposed to do this part, so be it haha

Not sure what to really write about, often wondering why since majority of todays nerds n geeks use podcasts to get their opinions and thoughts out there. Well, in terms of skills, I rank much higher in written than verbal. Plus, depression is a real biatch and just don't feel like it. Depression, now there is a topic I've never had to discuss in regards to my "nerdism". Usually I am able to use comic books, tv shows, movies, and video games to get out the funk/rut. Not the case as of late. This bout has been something new for me. Quit my job, which is fine except I didn't wait to have another lined up to replace it. To make it worse, I actually planned on growing within the company. But, it just became too much with non-work bullshit mixing in with work bullshit. Only positives are that I was immediately happier, still depressed but better. I no longer had to pick up the slack because of piss poor hiring choices by weak management. Why would I want to be "mentored" by them when I only respect 3 out of 10-11 of them. I liked more than that, but only respected few. Almost made it out onto the sales floor, but couldn't hold on passed the agreed 3 week mark. And when someone wants out of an area, what moron gives them even more shifts than normal in that area? Ah well, I am rambling about none important stuff and  life goes on. Another job will come about. Has to, "Batman V Superman: Dawn Of Justice" comes out in a month. Need money to go see that with my woman and oldest daughter. Who I absolutely must take, as she wasn't old enough to join for "Deadpool". Which is okay by me, as some scenes would have been awkward watching beside my kid haha

There are quite a few movies coming out for my comic book family to watch this year. Some will be in theaters, but some will also be a "wait for it on Blu-Ray" viewing. Will definitely be going to see "Suicide Squad" in theaters. Big Mr. J fan and have been waiting since "The Dark Knight" for his character to return to the big screen. And of course to see, Harley Quinn making her live action movie debut. Margot Robbie looks and sounds great to me. Hot to be honest, which makes for another awkward thing for me as I named my youngest Harleigh Quinn (fem version and looks prettier). And anytime I point to a picture or clip of Harley Quinn (any version) and ask who that is she replies, "That's Me!" haha
On the fence about going to see on the big screen is "Captain America: Civil War". Looks amazing, but not really a fan of going to the movies. Loud people talking and eating. Kids. Bad seating. Crowded. On a good day it isn't like this though and I do enjoy things until I have to pee and don't want to miss anything haha
Might make a date night out of seeing "Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles". May only be because of the cartoon and movies, but it is one of the few comic book things she actually likes on her own haha
Everything else coming out like "X-Men: Apocalypse", "Gambit", and "Dr. Strange" will be viewed a la Blu-Ray whenever they come out. Don't have much hope for X-Men universe, except for "Deadpool" (obviously) so in no rush to see any of them.

Then it will be a wait for 2017 kind of thing with "Justice League Part 1", "Wonder Woman", and "Guardians Of The Galaxy Vol. 2" coming out. God I hope "Batman V Superman: Dawn Of Justice" is as good as I hope.
Fantastic 4 2? This got a green light? hahahahaha

DC MOVIE UNIVERSE

With the recent announcement (and uproar) of the casting of Jesse Eisenberg as Lex Luthor, and Jeremy Irons as Alfred Pennyworth, the DC Movie Universe has expanded again. Looking at the size of the cast, it is hard to argue with the rumor that the delay in production and pushed back premiere is due to them filming more than one film, however there is the fact that apparently even a small delay of a week or two would push the opening back about 10 months. However, being a fan of how they shot the Lord Of The Rings trilogy, I am hoping there's more than one film being made in succession. Otherwise, there are a lot of stars and a lot of story to cover in a two hour time frame. We shall see.

Superman/Kal El/Clark Kent (Henry Cavill)

Star of the first installment, Cavill dawns the "S" once again. With all the additions, hard not to ask how much of Superman's story will be pushed to the back.

Lois Lane (Amy Adams)

Also returning is Amy Adams as Lois Lane. Like Superman, it will be interesting to see how the other characters being added will not just effect her story, but the story between Lois Lane and Superman/Clark Kent.

Perry White (Laurence Fishburne)

His role in "Man Of Steel" (2013) was smaller, but important to showing the reaction of the city during the attack by Zod and company. I see possibly a smaller role in upcoming movies that are not Superman focused.

Martha Kent (Dianne Lane)

Ma Kent is coming back too. Her role in "Man Of Steel" (2013) was as expected, with Dianne giving a great motherly performance (I liked the scene at school with a little CK). Perhaps we'll see more interaction between her and Lois this time around.

Batman/Bruce Wayne (Ben Affleck)

The casting that caused the worlds largest bowel movement amongst a large section of Bat-Fans not wanting to take the wait and see approach. After all is said and done, one side will be eating words. Hopefully the supporters are the ones proven right this time around. Until then we can all speculate what the Bat-Suit will look like. Can't see a "tights" style as that was technically already done by Adam West in the 60's. Hoping for an Arkham Origins video game style personally.

Wonder Woman (Gal Gadot)

Another casting that had mixed reviews, most of which was directed at her size. But, if anyone has watched Zach Snyder's past films, should have zero worries on that subject. For the first time since Lynda Carter did in the mid 1970's, Wonder Woman is coming to us in live action form and it's about time! And here's hoping for a solo spin-off film if all goes well. Very curious as to what her wardrobe will look like. Classic style? Pants? Xena-like? A brand new, unique take on something?

Lex Luthor (Jesse Eisenberg)

With nothing but rumors and speculation since the casting of Batman and Wonder Woman, and with heavy assumptions on who should and will play Lex Luthor, with names like Bryan Cranston, Mark Strong, among others being passed around. The part was finally cast, and like those who proceeded him, Jessee Eisenberg has received some negative feed back. Also like the others, talented enough for most of us to take a wait and see approach.

Alfred Pennyworth (Jeremy Irons)

Along with Lex, it was announced that the role of Batman/Bruce Wayne's closest confidant Alfred Pennyworth has been cast. Haven't read nor heard anything negative feedback on this one, which is far from surprising. The world of the new Batman has improved even more.

It's hard to say exactly which characters will be added to this ever growing and ever talented cast. "Arrow" tv star Stephen Amell claims that the "Arrow" universe may be connected to this one. Of course, Marvel is using Agents Of S.H.I.E.L.D. as part of their cinematic universe, so it's not far fetched. It would mean we know who Green Arrow, Arsenal, among others are, and with The Flash just finishing up his debut on the show, and set to get his own, we would know who the fourth member of Justice League is (possible title for M.O.S. follow-up). Plus, Dwayne "The Rock" Johnson is set to possibly join this universe also. One thing is for sure, DC Comics is at least making an effort to bring us their universe, personally liking what they are giving.

Stay Nerdy!

DC DISTRACTED?

With everything that has been happening with the company as of late; departures, fan outcries and negative media attention, I wonder if this is the reason for DC Comics misstep with September's "Villains Month". Selling out of any issue is never a bad thing, it usually means there is gonna be a bump in sales for all involved. However, it is not a good thing when the quantities are limited to the point that stores aren't even able to supply their "regulars" with their "regular" titles, and not because others came in and bought up all the issues, they simply weren't available. What is worse, in some cases apparently stores were selling what they had at a jacked up price instead of at cover price as per usual. Usually the price bump occurs at least the day after. It isn't right, but at the same time hard to blame them really, opportunity presented itself. Luckily, my store of choice isn't like that and sold them at cover. Also, they rendered them in a fair manner also. I wasn't able to get extra issues for my Nerdy, but received all of my titles so far minus "Justice League #23.3" which covered Dial E. I am not disappointed really as I don't have interest in them, but I like my collections complete so one day I will "have to" get it. Oh, and that store is Comic Book Addiction. Check them out online if you don't live in the area. I highly recommend them.

Now, more often then not when a title sells out there are follow up printings of that issue as soon as possible. Usually by next Nerdy Magazine Day (Wednesday aka New Comic Book Day). But in this case, there are even very limited quantities of what they did reprint. Noticed that at least in my area, "Detective Comics #23.2" with the loveable Harley Quinn on the cover was very popular or very, very limited in quantities. Cause I couldn't find even an issue with the standard cover.

I am usually a defender of DC Comics, willing to at least take a wait and see approach with creative things, etc etc. Even now, I am instead of ripping them a new one I am wondering if they were distracted by other things. It is unlikely, but never know the power of ripple effects. One more week of "Villains Month" left to go, heard rumors of "Batman: The Dark Knight #23.4" with The Joker's Daughter being quite valuable already. Hopefully, with the a little luck from the comic book gods, I will get at least my issue. Already explained the situation to my Nerdy so we're good there.

I hope this isn't going to become a trend, and that they learned a lesson for next years relaunch anniversary. Because creatively, just like last year, things have been extremely well done, or at least from what I have read (look to your right on this page to see a list of titles I read monthly) everything is great. And after all this is done, I am very much looking forward to "Zero Year" coming up, so again I hope they straighten things out.

Stay Nerdy.