WAITING FOR CONVERGENCE TO END

It does appear to be an interesting "event" based on the information that has floated around since DC Comics "Convergence" began. Azrael is still Batman, a mantle he claimed after the events of "Batman: Knightfall". Superman/Clark Kent and Lois Lane are not only still a married couple, but they are expecting their first child.  The list goes on. All interesting, but all apparently "irrelevant" to continuity. A continuity that is to remain intact as DC Comics ends their "New 52" imprint. And the apparent reason for "Convergence" was to almost "fill the void" as DC Comics moved their offices from the East coast to the West coast.

There are likely plenty of fans buying up their favorite titles and their stories, including the "Convergence" title itself. What about the rest of us? Those who have no real interest in something almost irrelevant? Two months is a long time for those who are strictly DC Comics fans, to not be in the comic book shops. Personally, back issues from both New 52 and titles from before the relaunch would be one thing, but what about those who have no other reason? That must put a small dent in the comic book shops profits.
Even those who will continually go to their local shops, they would now have money to spend else where. Possibly a competitors product. However, Marvel might be dropped due to a similar event taking place. But, there are other publishers, and whether it affects shops, it does simply mean less money in DC Comics pockets. Two months is also long enough for people's interests to change also.
DC Comics receives props for maintaining their continuity through their "soft relaunch". Who knows how many more fans, both new and old, they would have lost if they had. But, how will things look after "Convergence" ends? It is said that the general tone of things will be lighter than before. A decision that may please some, but may turn away others.

As with their movieverse, it is of course "wait and see". Hopefully things won't be too different than they were before "Convergence". The darker tones of the characters and their stories, made the world outside look a tad bit brighter for some. Perhaps expanding the '66 and '77 type worlds for those who seek the light. Those are the era's in which the majority refer to, when wanting a lighter DC Comics.


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CONVERGENCE: CONFUSING FOR SOME OF US

Convergence (noun)

-The process or state of converging.

Converge (verb-converging)

-Several people or things coming together from different directions so as eventually to meet.

For some fans, mostly those who chose the launching of the New 52 to jump on board with DC Comics, that is really all that is known. Now four years later, the new readers (mainly) are left in the dark so to speak. Titles have come and gone since DC Comics relaunch, so the dropping of the titles wasn't really a shocker. Although the number of titles, as well as some of the choices were another story. And of course, there is the fact that they are dropping the New 52 banner. That was easier to swallow after DC Comics stated that the continuity would go forward unchanged. The choices of course are a matter of opinion, but Batwoman? The title was able to set itself apart from the other Batman books. Green Lantern Corps, Green Lantern: New Guardians, and Red Lanterns? Sure, the number of Lantern books needed to be rolled back, however, now the choices are only Green and Yellow. And yes the Bat-titles needed to be trimmed, but Arkham Manor just started really (although that makes sense given the premise). And lets be honest, how long until DC Comics relaunches Swamp Thing, again?

The point of all of this isn't so much the new, relaunch but not relaunch (what is this called? Other than Marvel-esque?). The point is, what are the new fans to do for the next three months? Sure the continuity from the New 52 will be carrying on after Convergence, but it is put on hold for 3 months. Yes, there are many titles that may intrigue fans. The Convergence title itself, "cross-over/tie-in" titles like Superman. Where Superman and Lois Lane are not only still married, but expecting their first child). Or a world where Azrael still dawns the mantle of Batman in Shadow Of The Bat. Should fans (those with no interest beyond the New 52's continuity) even pay attention to any of this? Will any of this massive, three month story "mean anything" in the end? Is this simply a "one off" while DC Comics transitions offices from the east coast to the west? Or possibly a sort of test to see if any of these characters or storylines are what the fans want within the continuity (Shazam?)?
Although the continuity will remain intact, how will the stories and overall tone of the titles be? Word has it that DC Comics is looking to give into the group that felt the books were too "dark", and lightening things up. Will this be a gradual change, or will everything revert back to the 50's to 70's immediately after Convergence? And what of the fans who were okay, and possibly enjoying the tones and directions before? To swipe from Marvel, What if...those fans outweigh the other? Will DC Comics once again switch things up again?

With Convergence having just started, a lot will "remain to be seen" or answered. Personally, the main question is how this effects "pull lists". Is this similar to the previous anniversaries where the titles were "swapped" for a period of time, or were fans to "update" them before hand? And would that mean they would have to also redo their lists afterwords as they possibly add some titles after some are removed? So many questions for the newer fans who haven't been through DC Comics previous revamps and relaunches in previous decades. When did The Riddler take over DC Comics?


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BAT-MITE?

Of all the titles that will be new, and those that will be lost, this one stood out the most. DC Comics is concluding their New 52 imprint, and starting anew, kind of. The continuity and stories will remain unchanged. For now the monthly releases will be rolled back to 48 titles. Half of which will be new titles, meaning 28 titles will be canceled.

To make way for new titles like, Bat-Mite? That's where the problem lies. Sure, titles can come and go. But, clearing out ones that were doing fine, to make room for something that doesn't look like it will last, makes no sense. Yes, there are some titles to look forward to, like Cyborg or Black Canary. But, Red Lanterns and Batwoman (and many others) gone, to make room for Bizarro, We Are Robin, or again, Bat-Mite?

It is hard to accept what is coming when in appearance, it looks weak. Where are the much sought after titles like, Shazam!? Or some of the Milestone characters that they own the rights to? Even as a Bat-fan, it seems to be getting to be a little much with so many. Sure, not all the titles are directly related to the Batman or Gotham, but they will most likely always be thought of as such. Robin, Son Of Batman sure, but why Harley Quinn/Power Girl? Love the Harley Quinn solo title, but the brief story involving the two was good, not great. Milking the character makes sense, given her popularity, but perhaps stick with the extra issue every so often like they have been doing for holidays, and special occasions.

Credit does deserve to be given though. DC Comics decided to at least keep their continuity intact with this small relaunch. Alienating the new fans they have picked up since the launch of the New 52 would be a bad business move, and could make any new readers they pick up with this new venture weary out of the gate. Despite the above rant, things don't look too bad. For now.

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COMIC BOOK FAMILIES

Here in Canada (well, most parts) it is "Family Day". A day off to spend with of course, your family. And for those who do not, simply a day off (or a day to reminisce). Families can come in various forms. From straight forward blood relation, to families built on not blood, but on the foundation of love and respect. In comic books, it is all the above but taken to another level. Some fighting along side their family members, and others fighting against their families. In the spirit of the day, here are some of the families from within the pages of our favorite comic books...

The Bat Family

With the exception of Bruce and Damian, there is no blood relation amongst this family. Instead it is built on love, respect, and understanding. Like any family, there are bumps in the road, but they always push through and grow tighter.

X-Men

They practically cover all the different aspects. There is of course the team in itself, a family of mutants who've come together and developed into a family. There are blood-related families within the family as well. The Summers family (with Cyclops, Jean Grey, Cable, Havok, etc), Magneto and his clan whom are a mix heroes, villains, and a mix of both.

The House Of El

Superman, Supergirl, technically Superboy (is a clone of two people blood related to the people who were cloned? hmmmmm). Of course there are those who came before them in Jor El and Lara El (Supes parents). Zor El and Alura In-Ze (Supergirl's parents) too. And thanks to multiverses, Superboy, Power Girl, amongst others fit in here as well.

The Grimes Family

Went with Rick, Lori, Carl, and Judith as really almost any group in The Walking Dead could be listed as a family. Even though sadly, this family is down to only two.


Families are everywhere, and there are many more that could be listed. Even creators like The Kubert or Romita families. In a sense comic book fans world wide. Sure we argue and bicker, but that's what families do, and ask yourself who else is there to talk about comic books? On any level? Non-fans at any age will ignore us or blankly stare as they indulge us. Think of "Trolls" as that annoying cousin nobody likes who's just looking to mess with you. But try to be nice. Okay, lame sappiness out of the way. Enjoy that day off! With family or not.

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COMIC BOOK COUPLES

There used to be a 3-part edition of this from last year, unfortunetly, it disappeared. So, here is a more of a NGN Top 10 Comic Book Couples. Sure some are now defunct due to relaunches, and some may be not your typical "couple", but in today's world it all applies. All of this of course, is in the spirit of today's commercial holiday, Valentine's Day...

Clark Kent/Superman and Lois Lane

Wolverine and Mariko

Batman and Catwoman

Spider-Man and Mary Jane

Batwoman and Maggie

Cyclops and Jean Grey

Green Arrow and Black Canary

Gambit and Rogue

Rick and Lori Grimes

Black Panther and Storm

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THE JOKER'S NEW ORIGIN COULD END UP PUTTING A SMILE ON YOUR FACE

There have been some rumblings across the net (as per usual) about The Joker's new origin. Which has been happening within the pages of "Batman: End Game". It isn't too hard to see why people aren't accepting the clown prince of crimes background. Supernatural type stuff isn't typical of The Joker. Although it has taken place before, it isn't the norm in Gotham City.

However, although it is a new direction, it isn't the first time that we have seen Mr. J alive in come fashion through out history. Back in 2010, writer Grant Morrison and artists Chris Sprouse & Frazer Irving, showed us exactly that in "Batman: The Return Of Bruce Wayne". Although the story focused on Bruce Wayne making his way back through time to the present day, we were shown various incarnations during each time period of The Joker. Sure, it wasn't a spot on rendition but it was quite obvious he was "there". With DC Comics upcoming "Convergence" and "relaunch" (just removing "New 52" continuity is going to remain in tact), who's to say that Scott Snyder and Greg Capullo's story is even set in stone? It could have been an intended ploy to tell a great story that may not be received well. Or not, and that means either we are left to accept this, or since the story isn't over yet, it is all a ploy. Who's to say that all this isn't Mr. J recreating himself as to be more like Batman. The story of Batman does somewhat begin with him being somewhat of a myth, an urban legend, almost supernatural.

If anything, The Joker's new origin at least explains why he keeps coming back. There have been times where he should have been dead, and gone. He is a Batman villain after all, meaning he is basically still just a human. If there is an issue here, it should be not showing us after The Joker took the plunge into the vat of chemicals (assuming of course that is was him under the hood). Guess we will all just have to relax and see how Snyder and Capullo "end" this "game". Pun clearly intended.


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BATMAN? WHAT ABOUT GREEN LANTERN?

With "Batman" getting set to unleash Scott Snyder and Greg Capullo's next major story arc, a lot of people seem to have a problem with the dollar price hike. Understandably so, after raising the price from $2.99 to $3.99 on a regular basis. Are we about to see the price make a permanent home at $4.99 if the issues continue to sell so well? Hopefully not. Now don't get things twisted. I am not saying that Snyder and Capullo's work hasn't been worth it. "Zero Year" was amazing, and left us wanting more of Batman's origin, as well as other characters (ie The Red Hood post acid plunge).

The point of this article, is to ask why there hasn't been any grumblings about the Green Lantern side of things. There may not be the price jump, but the constant cross-overs do add up, and put a dent in the wallet. And they keep coming even with Geoff Johns now working on "Justice League". As stated with Scott Snyder and Greg Capullo's work in "Batman", I am not complaining about the quality of stories. Although I will admit that "Red Lanterns" never really seems to fit into the scheme of things, and with it being a preferred title I am always a little disappointed.

So, why is the "hate" always aimed at Batman? Is it because us fans refuse to admit defeat in regards to our Dark Knight versus anyone and anything? Maybe, but I see some fellow Bat-fans out there chirping about the cover price. Which usually comes with all-around top quality, the glossy and/or embossed covers, the story, and the art. Out of the six to seven Lantern titles, I only read two. "Green Lantern" and "Red Lanterns". In the beginning of the New 52, I was only getting half of the overall story. Now with Sinestro and Larfleeze, I am getting even less. I'll admit that it only half bothers me, as I enjoy the "hunt". Meaning I am a "hard copy" collector/reader, and I enjoy having to search for the titles that I missed or need to complete a story arc.

Usually a "positive" vibe around here, but figured someone had to add the Lanterns to the mix when others are complaining about "Batman" going up to $4.99 again for a major story. Looking forward to both "Batman: End Game" and "Godhead" with the Lantern titles.

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NEW 52 ANNIVERSARY LACKED PUNCH

After last years debacle, I should be happy with just how smooth this years New 52 anniversary went. Haven't seen nor heard of anyone being short changed in regards to getting the 3-D cover version of their favorite titles. Have also enjoyed that every title was included, unlike last year where we had 4 weeks of  say "Batman" or "Green Lantern" but nothing for say "Batgirl" or "Red Lanterns". But, after last year it was expected of DC Comics to not repeat the errors that were made.

Now I haven't read any of the issues in the weekly title, "Futures End", so perhaps I am missing something in regards to the tie-ins. But, it feels as though these one-shot tie-ins are lacking punch. Don't get me wrong, the stories have been good, and in some cases, great. They just feel "pointless" in a sense. DC Comics has said that all of this is part of what they have planned in 5 years time, and that the plan is to not have these one-shots be "What If's" (yes, a Marvel title, but you get it), and have them mean something. Problem with that is, what if we didn't like this direction? Stories were nice reads, but in most cases not a direction I would want to see the company go. Batman will be constantly cloning himself? And in just 5 years time, he'll be beaten and broken leading to him doing this? Sure it made for a nice read, but other than a possible (not definite) future I don't want it. Or even with Red Lanterns, or should I say the end of them? At times I prefer the Reds over the Greens, and don't want them to come to an end. Not until the writing turns to crap at least. Now, perhaps DC Comics was just trying to add hype to the event, especially after last year. It would be hard to imagine them sticking to all of this if fans aren't buying it. I am sure others out there agree that the stories themselves were good to great, but would prefer to not go in that direction for the next 5 years. At least not all of what was shown, as some things will have to be explained (ie. Mr J and his pretty face in Harley Quinn). I am also most of us who think this would be okay with DC Comics saying that these were all just possible futures.

Can't state enough how good the one-shots were. Stories were solid. Art was a matter of opinion as always, even the ones I didn't care for did a great job of telling their stories though. The covers were great again, and although a repeat of last year, it was nice to see all the titles getting one. I am looking forward to what they do for the 4th anniversary of the New 52. They've done the past, villains, and now the future. What could possibly be the focus next year? Until then, Stay Nerdy!



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DC's FUTURES END MONTH IN SEPTEMBER A CASE OF DEJA VU?

Perhaps a bit early to be talking too much on the subject, with there being an entire summer to get through first. However, there have been some rumblings about DC Comics plans for their upcoming 3rd Anniversary of The New 52. For the first year mark we were treated to #0 issues giving us a taste of characters new origins. Showing us just how much certain characters have both changed and stayed the same since the relaunch in 2011. Then there was last year, the second anniversary of the New 52. We were given a new style of 3-D covers, with the entire cover being a hologram instead of the traditional card or sticker. The covers were amazing and great additions to the collection. There is where the problem lied, getting your hands on these were quite a hassle for most. With stores and their customers suffering due to limited availability due to the lower number DC Comics had made. Usually only the customers are left with a bad taste in their mouth after failing to grab a certain item that likely fell into the hands of the people who only buy up and resell items at a higher price. This time even the store owners were feeling the heat from this mishap as they can't make money off of an item they ran out of.

This year we will be treated to another round of 3-D covers to celebrate the anniversary. Some may see this as a case of deja vu, and they wouldn't be completely wrong in saying so. However, this year is a chance at redemption. DC Comics will likely be on top of things this year and at the very least supply stores with their usual orders if not the expected excess that should occur. Also, it isn't the same as last year where only certain titles were given 3-D covers and running in a 23.1-4 numbering, while others "took the month off". This year all the titles will be involved. All of which will be taking a look at the future as part of the company wide "Futures End" story arc currently starting up.

If anything, the covers so far look phenomenal. Looks wise it seems to almost be a cross between the old-school card hologram and the new style DC Comics unveiled last year in the background. But of course, it all being one. You can see the first two scheduled weeks of covers at the following links...

FUTURES END-WEEK 1
FUTURES END-WEEK 2

Be interesting to see how these issues will look in person, amongst the natural wonderment of whether or not DC Comics learned their lesson last year. More so, whether the stories behind the great covers are just as good. The "Futures End" storyline does look appealing, and is nice that it may or may not have any effect of the present day amongst the titles. Well, those who's stories take place in the present or the past, and not the future beyond "5 years from now". Guess we'll see, now to get through the summer which includes "Batman Day" as well as more information and pics from the newly named, "Batman v. Superman: Dawn Of Justice".

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Stay Nerdy!

WILL BATMAN '89 EVER COME TO BE?

I was playing some DC All Access videos on Youtube for background noise while typing out a comic book review, when I heard someone (possibly Kevin Smith) say something about how almost each generation has their own Batman. For my father it was Adam West's version from the 1960's, being an 80's kid my Batman of course was Michael Keaton from Batman (1989) and Batman Returns, and my oldest daughters first Batman is Christian Bale in the Dark Knight Trilogy, while the youngest daughter will have Ben Affleck. Some of the poor 90's kids may have Val Kilmer or George Clooney as theirs.
Jokes aside, with Batman '66 did well after its first year, even spawning a Batman '66 And The Green Hornet spin-off title. Why not give the next generation their Batman in comic book form? That of course being Batman '89. A lot would of course be reset and done in an original manner, but it would be nice to see Tim Burton's version of the caped crusader come back to life. Something which would happen to a Jack Nicholson inspired Joker. Batman of course would be inspired by Michael Keaton, but to not scare away the Kilmer and Clooney peeps, keep the villains and additional heroes in the style of Batman Forever and Batman & Robin. Mr. Freeze would be Arnold Schwarzenegger, Robin is Chris O'Donnell, you get the idea. A dark, Gothic styled Gotham City similar to what Tim Burton laid out in his initial films, keeping Schumacher's bright lights for when characters like The Riddler are up to no good.
It could make for some moments that we were deprived of as well. Imagine Jim Carrey's version of The Riddler in scenario's with Nicholson's Joker. Of course, there is also the Two-Face we were originally supposed to have. Goodbye to Tommy Lee's rendition, and hello to the original Harvey Dent, Billy Dee Williams. I believe it was a scheduling conflict that stopped this from happening, and a comic book version would be a perfect way to bring it to life. Perhaps even call upon Tim Burton and Billy Dee Williams themselves to help show what they had in mind all those years ago.
For new characters that didn't make it to the big screen during the Batman (1989) franchise, draw inspiration from either stars from that era. Preferably, the ones that were perhaps rumored to be playing someone in these movies. Everyone likely has their own opinion, but there has to be many of you who agree that this could make for a great comic book series. It is the Year Of The Batman, so why not? It is a part of Batman75 history. Maybe one day. Until then....

Stay Nerdy!

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FREE COMIC BOOK DAY!!

It's is approaching that time of year again! Next weekend on Saturday, May 3rd, 2014 to be exact. That's right, Free Comic Book Day has returned! It is when comic book publishers (DC Comics, Marvel Comics, etc) get together with the comic book stores across North America  and give back to us fans. With a new batch of free comic books available, as well as a variety of events being held by different comic book shops. Be sure to check out your local comic book store to see what they have planned! You can use the Comic Shop Locator to find a store near you.
Whether you're a single nerd, the lone nerd in the house, or a family of nerds, it is a day to spend having a little bit of fun without the hassle that goes into attending a comic-con. But with some of the same perks. Free stuff is never a bad thing, and most (if not all) stores will have some sort of discount set-up to encourage adding to your collections.

Some of the free comic books that will be available are;

• DC The New 52 Futures End SE
• Guardians Of The Galaxy
• Transformers Vs G.I. Joe
• Epic #0
• Street Fighter #0
• Alll Rocket Raccoon
• Bleeding Cool Magazine
• Grimm Fairy Tales #0

As well as many more (for a complete list click HERE). Ranging from kids to teens and adults. There is even going to be something from WizKids who are making Arkham Origins Batman and Joker Heroclix available for free for fans on this fun filled day. But these, as like the comic books are a first come, first serve basis so be sure to get down to your local comic book shop earlier than later. Personally, I will aiming to hit up my usual shop of choice. And according to their flyer, it should make for a good day for myself and my junior nerds. Remember to use the Comic Shop Locator to find a store near you and see what they have planned for this yearly event!

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Stay Nerdy!

FLASHBACK FRIDAY: BREAKING OF THE BAT

It is "Flashback Friday" and figured while Thursdays are a throwback to comic book issues, Friday's would be more of a focus on events that have occurred within the annals of comic book history.

For the first installment, we'll take a look back at when DC Comics "broke" the goddamn Batman. It was when DC Comics decided it was time to shake things up with the 2 top dogs of their catalog of characters. With Superman, they killed him off, brought him back as four characters (who weren't him), and then gave him his phoenix rising moment. With Batman however, they opted to go a different route, which made for a great series of stories that of course lead into a tremendous return. Not taking away anything from Superman's moment (which will likely be covered on a future Flashback Friday), as it was a massive moment in comic books that has been tirelessly repeated on a higher scale since. But, with Batman, they gave him a fate that would be worse than death to some, they crippled him and replaced him before ultimately bringing him back.

Bane was new to the scene, having come to Gotham City upon learning of the legend that is Batman. At first it was mostly a watch and study approach, learning all that he could from his future opponent, even injecting Edward Nigma aka The Riddler with some Venom to see how Batman handles himself against the added muscle and strength. Bane showed us he was a legit threat when he came out on the winning end of a battle with Killer Croc, in which he showed how dominant he could be. Bane though opted not to face Batman at 100% and caused a mass breakout at Arkham Asylum unleashing Batman's rogues gallery upon Gotham City. From "small-time" villains like Film Freak (who falls at the hands of Bane) to the "big guns" like The Scarecrow and The Joker (who actually team-up to wreck havoc on the city). The Bat-family wasn't what it is now, mainly consisting of Robin (Tim Drake), Azrael (Paul St. Valley) and occasionally Nightwing and Catwoman, and Batman staying true to hero form attempted and mainly succeeded in running Bane's "gauntlet" taking down the bad guys. 
Exhausted and ready to be broken, Bane made his move and moved in for the "kill". Hoisting Batman above his head and smashing him down back first across his knee, breaking his back, breaking the Batman. With Gotham needing someone to step up and fill the void before Bane took over the city, Azrael aka Paul St. Valley would be the one to do just that. With a new Batman came a new suit and a new style, a very aggressive, not-Batman type of style. Although it succeeded in taking down Bane, it was tarnishing the name of Batman  to where even The Joker and others were noticing that it wasn't the same person beneth the cowl (read Batman: Knightquest: The Crusade for more). While this is going on, Bruce Wayne rehabilitates and is overseas trying to save his therapist and Tim's father, which he somewhat able to do (see Batman: Knightquest: The Search for how that ends). With his spine now healed, Bruce heads home to learn of how the new Batman kicked Robin out of the cave, took down Bane, and how lethal his path of destruction has been. Bruce himself is banned from the cave, and realized he needs to retrain himself before he can attempt to retake the mantle of the Bat, to which he asks Lady Shiva to assist him to returning to his top form. Bruce returns to the mantle of Batman, and amongst others, hunts Azrael down, who is almost killed at the hands of Nightwing, finally faces Bruce Wayne one-on-one at the Batcave. Outmatched "suit vs suit", Bruce uses his mental advantage to even the playing field, in the end Azrael admits defeat and acknowledges Bruce as the one true Batman (read Batman: KnightsEnd for how all this comes to an end). Leaving Bruce to restore Batman's name and relationship with Gotham City.

Although the "Death Of Superman" is more iconic in status, and they would eventually give Bruce Wayne his own "death" and "return", this was just as good if not better. Can't do much after your gone, death is more about the image we leave behind. Where in this instant we see someone who falls and claws his way back, and goes that extra mile to fully reclaim what is his. Batman didn't give up and throw in the towel like an average person would when literally broken both physically and mentally broken. Although comic books tend to be "dark" (more so DC than Marvel), sometimes we need to see our heroes in a dark place and continuing to fight and move forward, not giving up on finding that "light". Possibly went "deeper" than what was likely just a very well done money making story arc, but simply gave another way to look at things if anything. Or you're laughing and that is just as good.

Be sure to come back next week for "Flashback Friday" and we'll take another look back at another moment in comic book history. Which one? Tune in and find out!


Stay Nerdy!

COMIC BOOK FAMILIES

In Canada it is "Family Day"! Us Canucks don't get how this is a holiday either, but it's a day off, so the people will take it, and most do spend the time with family or close friends. Comic books of course are loaded with families and characters that are related, whether it be by blood or by bond. This includes the talent that bring these characters to life in every panel and page.
With a mixture of both comic book characters, and the people who bring them to life (artists, writers) here is a list of some of the family dynasties within the comic book universes...

The Summers Family

One of Marvel's comic book families. Members include Scott Summers/Cyclops, his brother Alex Summers/Havok, their father Major Christopher Summers/Corsair, Scott's children (from the future but not) Nathan Summers/Cable and Rachel Summers/Phoenix. Then there is Cable's son, Tyler. And don't forget about Jean Grey aka Marvel Girl aka Phoenix who is Scott's wife and mother of his children (Cable's mother was a clone of Jean, so same thing really).

The Wayne Family

Not to forget the great bloodline that Bruce Wayne comes from, but it is the family he's built since dawning the cape and cowl that we are referring too. Family is more than blood. Batman (Bruce Wayne) and all of his sons both adopted, foster or birth, Nightwing (Richard Grayson), Red Hood (Jason Todd), Red Robin (Tim Drake) and Robin (Damian Wayne) have proven just that over the years. The relaunch has since added some family issues as of late (Joker's last appearance, Damian's current "death" status), but they pull through, or we're hoping they do. Oh, and Bruce possibly has a relative out there? Read "Batman: City Of Owls" if you have not.

The Eisenhardt Family

The size of and the members of this family vary from "earth" to "earth". Magneto is the patriarch of this dynasty, with his children Scarlet Witch and Quicksilver, his grandchildren Speed, Wiccan, Pavel Rasputin, etc. Former and possible "in-laws" include Vision, Doctor Doom, Crystal, etc. Magnetism, speed and magic. I do like how Magneto would have an advantage against the men his daughter brings home. Android and a man in a metal suit. They probably had her home by 11pm...a day early lol And I believe Polaris may also be an offspring of Magneto, which at times links the Eisenhardt and Summers families.

The Grimes Family

They are kind of the First Family Of The Zombie Apocalypse in The Walking Dead. Both in print and on screen. Of Rick, Lori, Carl and Judith Grimes, in both the comic book and television series, only two members remain. (and for the record, regardless of genetics, Rick is Judith's father).

The Kubert Family

A family of comic book artists, writers, and creators. The late great Joe Kubert, who's work and contributions to comic books is legendary gave us, greats in their own right, Adam and Andy Kubert. And they help pass on their knowledge within their family owned school, The Kubert School, which was founded by Joe who also taught there before passing, and carrying that on is both Adam and Andy.

The Richards Family

Best known members of this clan are Mr. Fantastic/Reed Richards, Invisible Woman/Sue Storm-Richards and their son, Franklin Richards, and of course Sue's brother, Human Torch/Johnny Storm. There is also Reed's father, like-wise super smart, former Agent of S.H.I.E.L.D., and also a time traveler, Nathaniel Richards.

The House Of El

Of course, there is Kal El/Clark Kent/Superman son of Jor El and Lara El. Kal's uncle from his fathers side, Zor El and his wife Alura In-Ze, whom are parents of Kara Zor El/Kara Kent/Supergirl. And regardless of which incarnation (there are many), whether clone or not there is Superboy, sometimes Kon El. Hopefully, there is a lawyer somewhere in this bloodline, with all the legal drama over the years. Although not Kryptonian, Martha & Jonathan Kent get honorary mentions for having raised Kal El. They did an okay job, I'd say.

The Romita Family

Legendary artist John Romita Sr, his wife Virginia Romita (apparently once long time Marvel Traffic Manager), and their also legendary son, John Romita Jr. Spider-Man. X-Men. Kick-Ass. And others to which we all say a collective "Thank you". Although primarily a "Marvel" family, John Jr. is coming over to DC Comics. Cannot wait for that.



Well, that's all for now. There are many, many more families both large and small within the comic book universes. Wouldn't be surprised to see a new baby pop up in The Walking Dead, with the last name Grimes. Or new babies in any of the titles across the publisher board. With the way they seem to "get around". Just saying. It may be "Family Day" in Canada, but in some cases a lot of families begin about 9months from now thanks to the very recently celebrated Valentine's Day.

Stay Nerdy!

COMIC BOOK COUPLES III

Happy Valentine's Day! Back with the final list of couples from the worlds of comic books. For now that is, there will be in the future. With the ones that I forgot to add, and likely, with the way comic book characters "get around" within their universes, I am sure that there will be more to add to the massive list. You can find the first list (HERE) and the second list (HERE)

Hope you enjoy them. Did your favorites make the list yet? Find out below...

Black Panther & Storm

Although the relationship is apparently on the outs, or they seemed to be on that road, they reached "Married Couple" status before, like most famous marriages, it all came to an end. Luckily, one key difference between them, is in comic books, relationships ending are like deaths, a temporary thing. What about their destined to be great children they were foretold about?

Hawkman & Hawkgirl

Destined to be together forever. Each life spent together, but with each, comes having to watch the other die. Beautiful yet tragic. Great for comics, and likely the reason for their longevity.

Wolverine & Jean Grey

I don't think it has ever been more than a super steamy, high tensioned, mutual crush. Wolverine falling for the girl next door who's dating the head jock, and for Jean it was the stereotypical "bad boy" crush. For the record, as a child I was "Team Logan" as kids say these days...wait do they still do that?

Steve Trevor & Wonder Woman

Who knows, maybe when Superman and Wonder Woman's current fling ends badly as it has been said to be (Geoff Johns apparently said so), maybe this classic couple can reunite. Until then however, after the media focused embarrassment of the split, we shall say, "Poor Steve".

Mr. Fantastic & Invisible Woman

To some they are the "First Couple" of the Marvel Universe. With longevity, marriage, and of course some kiddies, they've endured through a lot. Even the initial "Fantastic 4" movie franchise. And despite Namor's attempts also.

Batman & Talia al Ghul

Regardless of current status or the reasons behind the relationship. They gave us Damian Wayne, your argument is invalid. Okay, you are entitled to your opinion. However, this relationship gets props for Talia's father, Ra's, being completely okay with this union. Bats "awkward" moments with Ra's al Ghul, are completely different from what many have had to endure in the future "father-in-law" department.

Ant-Man & Wasp

This one has had its ups and downs, and bottom of the barrel (spousal abuse is just that). They have been married, divorced, reconciled, turned down a proposal of renewing their marriage (by Wasp), to living in retirement together, only for Wasp to return to action. Solo. However, with Marvel's ever revamping and relaunching world, who's to say we won't see these two size-changers reunite, or renew. Abuse is bad, however it made for some realism within the comic books, it provided awareness and that is good.

Red Lantern Guy Gardner & Ice

A relationship of hot tempers and cold receptions. Pardon the puns. If you've read "Red Lanterns #27" and "Green Lantern/Red Lanterns #28" you know this icy hots current relationship status. If not, check out these reviews to find out...Red Lanterns #27 and Green Lantern/Red Lanterns #28. Spoiler alerts within those links. Been warned.

Daredevil & Elektra

Reminds me of Marvel's Batman & Catwoman or perhaps more so, Batman & Talia al Ghul or a mix of both relationships maybe....Daredevil....Batman....yes people are still  going there. Personally, I can't wait.

Thanos & Death

Go read "Infinity Gauntlet" if you haven't. Re-read if you have. You're welcome.

And Happy Valentine's Day to those who celebrate the holiday that holds its own against Christmas as the top "over-commercialized" holiday of the year. To some of you, best of luck 9months from now lol And sorry to all the people who's favorite couples didn't make the lists as there were a lot that were left out, not intentional at all.

Stay Nerdy!