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!

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!

EXPANDING COMIC BOOK VARIANT COVERS

A lot of you may think that there are already too many variant covers in the world of comic books. They are going to happen regardless so these will be what should happen, at least an opinion of what should. Although the money value of these comic books may have dropped due to the over usage of the variant cover gimmick, the personal value is a matter of opinion. The variants can make for unique covers as well as a collision of worlds that may or may not happen in other mediums. There is the Black & White covers, or simply an alternate artists take, and even a blank variant cover. Which most take to comic book conventions as to get a choice artist to render them a truly unique cover. Themed variants with an example being the recent Steampunk style making its way onto the covers. Cross-Promotions have also made their way into the variant cover scene with the likes of Lego and Scribblenauts. Celebrations usually join in on the fun too, recently Superman having variants that included a different era and the style of that time to celebrate the original superheroes 75th Anniversary. Will be interesting to see what happens this year with Batman75 celebrations.

Now some of these may or may not have already happened in the past, or perhaps are likely to never happen due to different publishers owning the rights to certain characters or what not. If they have happened then perhaps they could be done again, but with fresh talent or a different crop of characters appearing on the covers. A few ideas that are obvious, while others are perhaps truly just the opinion of one. Here is a list of comic book variant covers that should happen...

LEGO DC UNIVERSE

This may have happened, but have come up short in a search for actual variant covers that weren't fan-made. If it hasn't, then it should. DC Comics did beat Marvel to the Lego mash-up with the video games and movie. Marvel had a run of Lego variant covers, DC Comics should join the club.

LIVE ACTION SHOTS

Of course these have been done on even standard covers, but these could be done in other ways that make them more intriguing or unique from what has been done before. Perhaps actors and actresses who have portrayed the comic characters in movies and television reliving their past roles on the variant covers. Even use them as part of the promotion of an upcoming movie. Example would be having the stars of the Man Of Steel follow-up appear full costume on the covers. Batfleck in all his glory gracing the variant covers of the Bat-titles, Henry Cavill reprising Superman on the Kryptonian's  titles, Gal Gadot on the Wonder Woman cover, and of course a group shot for Justice League.

ANIMATED PARODIES

MAD Magazine may have the lead in the parody department, at DC Comics mostly but they do cross-over for the films and shows. Skottie Young's Baby Marvel covers are amazing as well. This however is referring to the animated television shows that poked fun or have paid homage to the comic book world. Shows like The Simpson's, South Park, Family Guy and American Dad. Some are owned by other publishers, but if they worked out a deal, why not? The target audience is generally the same, and they could make for some humorous covers. Even Robot Chicken's DC Comics Special would make for some interesting variant covers for fans of the show and the special.

INTRODUCING...

It could make for a way to test the market with new talent making it to the big leagues to see how the larger customer base gauges them. Instead of finding out during a multiple issue run or as a co-artist where the work is either lost within the main artists work, or forced to be side by side with that art which could be more accepted by the general fan. This is even a way to test the fans with possible changes to a characters appearance. Variant Covers can be viewed as simply an alternate interpretation as opposed to a leaked image which can come across as something concrete and harder for fans to initially accept.

Another idea for the live action shot would be to use cosplay winners from various comic cons, or THE comic con in San Diego. Even use the more known cosplayers out there. Some of them are top notch and movie quality in appearance. Likely more affordable than actors, even though it could be somehow worked out for a reasonable if not free price. May be able to act on screen, but if you appear on the cover of that characters comic book, then they truly can say things like..."I'm Batman!!" And there are also plenty of other ways they could do Variant Covers. Feel free to chime in below in the comments section, or where ever you found this post (StumbleUpon, Facebook, etc). Until next time...

Stay Nerdy!

SUIT-UP SUNDAY! COSPLAYER OF THE WEEK!

Each week we will try to put the spotlight on those who make things like comic con extra special with a professional approach to cosplaying. Some cases they are exact replicas of the characters we've seen in live action movies or television shows, but sometimes they are responsible for bringing to life the characters that the movies and television series have yet to do. Then there are the photos or prints that they sell during their appearances or through their websites, which at times add effects or shot in a manner that one would think that they were pulled right from a film.

The first cosplayer that we are featuring is Callie Cosplay aka Leah Burroughs. She is more of the more well rounded cosplayers out there, with not only making and modeling her costumes at conventions and in her pictures, but Callie also is responsible for creating a large portion of her photos from the other side of the camera. Not sure if she was responsible for the amazingly well done photos featured below or not, but regardless, they are like mentioned, amazing.

Here are the links to most of Callie's official pages and site. I recommend checking them out and looking at a her much larger collection of photos. There isn't any nudity or gore, but some pics may be considered too risque for a workplace setting so take caution. She also has prints available for sale, so if you like what you see, be sure to go to her website and purchase the ones you like.

Website: http://www.calliecosplay.com
Facebook Page: https://www.facebook.com/leahcalliecosplay
Twitter: https://twitter.com/CallieCosplay

Below is just a small sample of her portfolio, she does cover other genres outside of comic books as well. Go check it out via the links posted above. And remember to tune in next week for another installment of "Suit-Up Sunday! Cosplayer Of The Week"! Until then...

Of course all the pics belong to the featured cosplayer and their respective photographers.

Stay Nerdy!

STYLE SAVANTS ENTRY #2: CATWOMAN

While she may have nine lives, she has a wardrobe that could dress more than one litter. Cat-puns aside, Selina Kyle has so many looks she needs multiple people to wear them all. Yes people, not personalities, as there were three different women in the 1960's Batman TV show, and not sure which if them was actually Selina Kyle and who was another Catwoman, and then there was Halle Berry's Patience Phillips feline form. Those were movie and television of course, and like Batman, has appeared in basically every form from live action, to animated and CGI. In the comic books, Selina Kyle is Catwoman, and although it is usually a matter of artist and storyline, she has many looks and costumes as well.
Obviously, the theme of the looks is that of a cat, but although it is mainly a wardrobe of skintight costumes, the character did begin with a giant cat head mask, as well as a dress and cape. Only thing to really stay the same has been her "cat" arsenal consisting of her whip, cat of nine tails, caltrops, etc.
With the new Batfleck movies hopefully following the "Man Of Steel" sequel/follow-up, it will be interesting to see how Catwoman makes her way into that universe. Which is almost a given, as she tends to pop-up everywhere that the Batman does. Even the young Camren Bicondova has the basics down for what a young Selina Kyle would look like at such a young age. Even her character still, although likely accidental, looks like she has cat ears with the towers behind her.

Although this isn't all of them, here are some of the many looks of one of DC Comics ultimate "Style Savants". 

 

 
That was "Style Savants Entry #2: Catwoman". Hope you enjoyed it. In case you missed entry #1 which was Marvel's Cyclops, you can find it HERE. Until next time...

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!