Matt's back to finish the questions posted at iFanboy, and gives us more details about Iron Man, Thor Cassanova, and this spring's Marvel event FEAR ITSELF

On this edition of Word Baloon writer Jay Faerber is back to talk about next week's Dynamo 5 Holiday Special from Image . The one shot picks up the D5 story after the events of this year's SINS OF THE FATHER storyline, with an all new story, plus 5 epilouges that llead into next years D5 mini series and beyond.

As a creator who has many creator owned properties, Jay also talks about the availability of his past works as digital comics and explains the realities behind tranfering these works from print to digital.

We also talk about Jay's admission into the Warner Television Writers Workshop, which leads to a talk about american television , and screenwriting.

On this episode of Word Balloon writer Paul Cornell is back to talk about his DC books. We'll discuss today's release of The Knight and Squire #3 plus Cornell's 3 issue run on Batman And Robin and his continuing story in Action Comics featuring Lex Luthor.

We also discuss his work Soldier Zero from Boom Studio's. Paul talks about writing under the editorial imput of Stan Lee  who is not ust lending his name to the project. In Cornell's own word's "...half of the first issue's script are Stan's words." How does the 21st century Lee oversee a comic script for a modern audience?
Plus there's a full discussion about writing for  television. We talk about the role of the "Show Runner " producer.  Last week's rumors about The Walking Dead producers firing their season one writing staff and adopting a british model of freelance writers turning in season two scripts is discused. It's the system Cornell has worked under for shows like Doctor Who, Primeval, and others. Paul claims no inside information about the AMC-Walking Dead situation, but explains the differences between having a writers room to lean on versus the solitary life of a freelancer.

We also go in depth discussing Doctor Who, from the current success of producer Steven Moffat and star Matt Smith to a look back at the 1969-1978 Terrence Dicks show runner era. In particular we talk about Paul's episode Plus we discuss other Brit-TV, like the Moffat produced SHERLOCK series, Primeval, and others.

Tim Seeley is back to talk about his new Marvel mini series Ant Man & The Wasp, with issue 2 out this Thursday. Seeley wrote and pencilled the 3 part story, and talks about the fresh character dynamic between Hank Pym and Eric O'Grady.

We also talk about Tim's creator owned series Hack Slash , and this month's release of the third HS Omnibus, and the trade relase of the Cassie Hack prequel story My First Maniac.

Remender is here just in time to talk about Uncanny X-Force. Issue 2 comes out tomorrow. We also talk about his Punisher finale In The Blood, wrapping up the Fear Agent saga, and more

Firebreather's co-creators Phil and Andy discuss the upcoming Cartoon Network animted film, debuting Wednesday Nov 24th at 7pm eastern . To celebrate the film's debut, a new Firebreather four part mini series also debuts Wednesday from Image Comics.

Plus, Phil talks about his new role taking over writing chores on  the Wonder Woman monthly comic from J Michael Stracyznski.

Both also have stories that will appear next year in a Disney Pirates Of The Caribbean trade collection that serves as a bridge to the next Pirates film.

Today on Word Balloon, Dan Slott joins us with details of his plans on Amazing Spider-Man. The new Spidey status quo, called BIG TIME debuts this week. Dan talks about upcoming plots guest stars , and ideas which begin with issue . We also talk about Dan’s .1 issue coming in February, the Avengers
Cartoon on Disney XD, and more.

On this episode Nick Spencer joins us to talk about his mainstream work on Jimmy Olsen, Supergirl, and The Thunder Agents for DC, and War Machine for Marvel.

Plus we talk about his popular Image series Morning Glories, and his future mini series Infinite Vacation.

On This episode of Word Balloon, it's part 2 of The Rucka Debrief. Writer Greg Rucka talks more about his
upcomiong novel series for Alpha. You'll hear about the digital plans for Greg's Oni books,  We also hear
about Greg's "passion project" American Soldier with artist Rick Burchett, and we look back at Greg's art collaborators on the Queen and Country Comic Series.

One word of caution. Being the poltical news junkies Greg and yours truly are , the conversation turned to the coming mid-term elections, not in specifics but the general idea that we live in a highly partisan enviroment. The discussion came up inspired by a listener asking about where gets his news. Still, some listeners just want to hear about comics. 

For those who would like to pass on the political portion of our discussion, skip from 22:18-30:55

On this episode of Word Balloon, we begin a 2 part conversation with Greg Rucka. Today his new Queen And Country novel THE LAST RUN from Bantam Books is out, and next week, Greg will begin a multi city tour promoting the book. For full rundown of signings visit Rucka’s website.

We talk about the book and where the Q&C series goes after the novel as Greg calls this story “The end of Q&C volume 1.”

Greg also discusses his departure earlier this year from DC Comics, explaining why he left, and what projects are in the near and distant future. You’ll hear his thoughts on the future of Characters he’s created like Batwoman , and Renee Montoya

We also begin answering your questions for Rucka.

An all star list of creators are on tap on this episode of word balloon, .libve from the floor of this year's New York Comcicon.

Billy Tucci talks about his work on the DC war books, and rebooting his creator owned series Shi for the 21st century, beginning next year.

Nicola Scott previews her upcoming run on Teen Titans with JT Krul.

Ryan Dunleavy and Fred Van Lente preview issue 5 of their history of comics documentary
Comic Book Comics.

Trevor Goring discusses his new IDW 3 part WW2 series Iron Siege starting in December.

Colorist Paul Mounts talks about his work on Fantstic Four Cpatain America, and the transition from
hand coloring books, to learning the digital process.

The entire creative team from Vertigo’s Scalped  writer Jason Aaron, and artists RM Guerra, and Giulia Brusco discuss how they were put together by editor Will Dennis .

Stuart Moore discusses his IDW Star Trek One Shot on Captain Pike, His Spider-Man Howard The Duck Special Back in Quack! The monthly Namor series, and a new OGN Shadrach Stone, a paranormal adventure story from Penny Farthing Press. With artist Jon Proctor.

Walter and Louise Simonson discuss recent and future works coming from DC and Marvel.

John Paul Leon  previews a new Batman mini series with Kurt Busiek , and talks about last years
Sgt Fury & The Howling Commandos Shotgun Opera with Jesse Alexander.

Cliff Chang preview his upcoming run on Zantana with Paul Dini, and hints at a 2011 project that reunites him with Brian Azzarello.

Jamal Igle talks about wrapping up his run on Supergirl with issue #59.

Christos Gage talks about his Marvel books, the Vertigo Crime Novel Area 10 with Chris Samnee, his Avatar superhero series Absolution , and his work on the new Captain America video game.

From 2000AD Robbie Morrison and Simon Frazier discuss their new Nikolai Dante graphic novel Amerika , plus Simon talks about his Lily Mackenzie series featured in the 2000AD Megazine.

On this episode of the podcast, Brian Bendis goes into detail about all of his NYCC announcements of current and future projects with Marvel and ICON.

In a full disclosure discussion we had prior to the convention , you’ll hear all about Taki O, the new creator owned all ages project from Bendis and Mike Oeming , how Brian's daughter played an importatnt role in creating the concept, and how it will impact future arcs of their other creator owned series Powers.

We also discuss, Bendis’s new reboot of Moon Knight with Alex Maleev, all of Brian’s Avengers books, including a preview of the next arcs in New Avengers and Avengers, the joy of working with Alan Davis on the well received Avengers Prime, and  welcoming Sara Pichelli who will alternate arcs with David LaFuente Ultimate Spider-Man. 

Then we cut to a brief floor conversation from last Friday at the con with talk about Scarlett, the 150 issue plans for Ultimate Spider-Man, and next years Avengers annuals which will have a linking storyline. Bendis also teases a 2011 Avengers story drawn by Brian Hitch 

Time for part 2 of our conversation with Ed Brubaker. We finish up some listener questions, and transition into our usual random discussion about foreign crime films and television that might’ve flown under the general audience radar. We also talk about some of the golden and silver age great moments of forgotten comics. From Gil Kane’s HIS NAME IS SAVAGE, to Johnny Craig’s EC CRIME AND SUSPENSE STORIES and his Warren work on CREEPY and EERIE . We remember the Marvel Black and White magazines , including their PLANET OF THE APES original stories by Doug Moench .

Ed also compares his collaborative runs writing with Greg Rucka on DC’s GOTHAM CENTRAL to writing IRON FIST and UNCANNY X-MEN with Matt Fraction.

 

On this episode we wrap up a 2 part talk with artist Tony Harris. In part 2 Tony explains his pursuit to create a freelance guild for comic book writers and artists to get better wages health benefits and retirement security . The Guild is called SAEG, the sequential arts and entertainment guild.

 

Tony gives us an update on War heroes his Image comics mini series with Mark Millar. Tony explains the reasons behind the delays and the plan moving forward on the series.

 

Then we talk about Tony’s love of pulp hero fiction from the 1930’s and 40’s. It inspired the 2 JSA projects he did with writer Dan Jolley,  The Liberty Files and The Unholy Three. Harris’s love of pulps inspired his next project with writer B Clay Moore which was slated for Wildstorm, The Whistling Skull . According to recent tweets by Moore, the project will move forward despite the recent news that the Wildstorm imprint was wrapping up.

 

Note: Our talk with Tony took place before the Wildstorm announcement. Attempts made to get an update comment from Tony regarding the publishing plans for The Whistling Skull were unsuccessful. 

Audio glitches fixed -apologies 

On this episode of Word Balloon, we begin another 2 part talk with writer Ed Brubaker. Ed answers some Word Balloon listeners questions, and previews the new arc of Incognito with artist Sean Phillips premireing next month from Icon. Ed talks about the pulp history articles in the back of each issue by Jess Nevins, and why he thinks at 3.50 the book is one of the better values on the comic book stands today.

We also talk about Secret Avengers looking back at the first story arc, and the secret Life Of Max Fury issue, with former Iron Fist collaboators David Aja and Michael Lark. 

Plus lots of analysis of Ed’s Captain America run, uncluding the current Steve Rogers Super Soldier mini series, and the upcoming Trial Of Captain America story. Also Ed reveals his personal feelings about event books, including his unique take on one of the classic 80’s crossover tales.

We conclude with a short talk with Jeremy Bastian creator of The Cursed Pirate Girl and his current kickstarter program.

On this episode of Word Balloon  we begin a 2 part talk with artist Tony Harris. Tony and Brian K Vaughn have just wrapped up their Wildstorm comic Ex-Machina. We talk about what it’s like to live with drawing the same book month after month for a long period of time.

 

Tony also takes us through his comic career, from co-founding Gajin Studios, to hooking up with James Robinson  to do 40 issues of Starman . Tony fondly reflects on working with Starman editor Archie Goodwin, and how Goodwin’s adaptation of Star Wars The Empire Strikes Back with artist Al Williamson was  responsible Tony’s first attempt at drawing comics.

 

We discuss Ex-Machina, from Tony’s first discussions with Vaughn, and the early designs for The Great Machine’s costume, to the very last issue. Tony talks about the careful attention detail he put into designing  the art, to make their fictional New York feel right for the NYC locals.  He also discusses the life-like process of casting his friends at a local Christmas party , to pose for modeling as the characters in Ex-Machina . Tony would hand the Robinson script to his models and they would “act” out the poses like a stage play.

 

Next week in part 2, we discuss Tony’s attempts at getting a comics creators guild organized, and what’s in his future , now that Ex-Machina has wrapped up?

 

Note: This interview took place before the DC entertainment announcement of Wildstorm’s demise as an imprint. Attempts at a direct comment from Harris are still in process. 

Word Balloon presents part two of our conversation with writer Mark Millar. This time Mark tells us a bit more about his low budget comic book film Miracle Park, which he's been shooting in his spare time in between writing comic scripts, and supervising the production of his new men's magazine CLINT. Mark also gives us his view of the Super Hero Film Genre and what his future involvement might or might not be in Marvel's Film advisory team. You'll hear films status updates on Wanted 2 and Nemesis plus a few more Millar films in development . 

We also preview Mark and Leinil Francis Yu's next comic project Superior from Icon , which debuts next month, plus more talk about Nemesis, Kick Ass, and Mark's future Marvel plans beyond the Ultimate Avengers comic. 

Artist Dean Haspiel and writer Tim Hall discuss the notion of giving free content to build an audience for their paid work.

Tim has just created a new literary website UNDIE PRESS, which features the debut of Haspiel's first prose novel, Post-Disater Adventure Chronicles, along with free audio books, podcast interviews and essays. 

We also talk about Dean's EMMY winning art for the HBO series BORED TO DEATH, new books from Marvel, IDW and this week the Vertigo OGN CUBA My Revolution written by Inverna Lockpez. 

We wrap up with their thoughts on the Passing of Haspiel's frequent collaborator, Harvey Pekar 

On this episode of Word Balloon writer Jen Van Meter is back to discuss why she has more fun writing conflicted villains than heroes, as evidenced in her two current serial stories Liberty Belle and Hourman facing their moral opposite couple   The Icicle and The Tigress in DC’s JSA All Stars, and the Black Cat mini series for Marvel.

We also get an update on the coming Hopeless Savages collection from Oni Press and much more. 

On this edition of the Word Balloon podcast, we've uncovered a lost Q&A session that focused on the subject of creative tips for newcomers. Writer Robert Kirkman recorded this on a sleepy August night, but answered many questions about starting out in the comics business. We discuss the merits of creating a series bible, versus a story by story approach.  What goes into creating characters?  Is there a definitive end story for Walking Dead in the back of his mind? Plus thought on collaborating with Todd McFarland, and his views on creating a comic property for the sole purpose of getting a Film or TV deal. 

On this edition of the show, we get a brief conversation with writer Mark Millar, who's on a whirlwind tour promoting the UK release of the Kick Ass DVD.

We discuss the debut of CLINT magazine this Thursday . A 100 page anthology of comics articles and comedy from UK stars like Jonathon Ross and Frankie Boyle, Mark compares his new venture to it’s Uk preedecessors from The Eagle and 2000AD on the comics side, to the Lad magazines of today like FHM and Maxim. We discuss the content , distribution and the very notion of starting a new paper magazine while others are going out of business every month.

 

A full episode of the new Aw Yeah Podcast With the Tiny Titans creative team of Art Baltazar & Franco! This time the guys talk about their convention adventures meeting celebrities like Vanna White, Adam West, Michael Hogan, Lorenzo Lamas and more. Plus Art wonders which Muppet movie is the best to show his kids to introduce them to their greatness, more Star Wars Celebration talk, and Franco prepares for a vacation at Martha's Vineyards where he expects to run into the Obamas, just like he did last year. Thanks to friend of the program Patrick Scullin(Super Siblings)  for the fantastic sketch of the Aw Yeah Team .

From last weekend’s Wizard World Chicago Comicon I moderated this panel with DC artist Ethan Van Sciver . In addition to words about his early art beginnings , Ethan looks back at his original creation Cyberfrog, creating new villians for The Flash and Green Lantern, his transformation of Sinestro into the modern threat he represents to current DC continuity and discusses his future plans which include some writing such as a new story in October’s Untold Tales Of The Blackest Night .

In addition Ethan arranged for a baby grand piano for the room, and performed several f his original songs about Wolverine , Star Trek, The BP Oil disaster , and a post nuclear war future.

By the way, in the center that's the recently convicted Illinois ex-govenor Rod Blagoevich, flanked by Ethan and his pal Gil.

Part 2 of our conversation with DC Comics artist Francis Manapul is all about his new reality tv show Beast Legends, currently airing on History Television Canada. The show's US debut is September 9th on Syfy. Francis discusses his role on the show as on the scene sketch artist, bringing mythical creatures to life in his sketchbook.

You'll hear all about his hilarious globetrotting adventures, in search of Grifiths, Dragons, Krakens and more.

The Word Balloon Network of podcasts is expanding, and I'm pleased to present a preview of the brand new AW YEAH PODCAST with Art Baltazar and Franco (Tiny Titans, Billy Batson and The Magic Of Shazam and Young Justice)

On Their first epsiode there was a little static, so please bear with it, but enjoy the freewheeling conversation.

Then a great con panel from May's Summit City Comicon featuring Art Baltazar, Mike Norton (Green Arrow, Billy Batson and the Magic of Shazam) Dan Davis (Scooby Doo, Sponge Bob Squarepants) and Dave Losso (The Great sandwich Detective)

On this episode of Word Balloon, we begin a 2 part conversation with artist Francis Manapul, and discuss his dazzling art on books like the Flash and Adventure Comics with Geoff Johns. You'll hear abourt his takes on Connor Kent, and Barry Allen and the evolution of his art style from his days at Top Cow, to the present.

Francis tells us about his comic beginings, the influences on his art from the Image founders to Mike Weirringo, and we discuss the role philipino artists have played in american comic books, going back to the bronze age.

 

I was honored to host this spotlight panel focusing on the careers of Kathryn and Stuart Immonen from their beginnings in the late 1980’s black and white independent comics scene in Toronto.  We talk about their first joint project Playground a punk rock murder mystery , and subsequent work for Vortex Calibre and Revolutionary Comics .

They also go in-depth about their new graphic novel Moving Pictures from Top Shelf, which collects the entire story that was first presented as a weekly web comic. Stuart discussed how he arrived at the style for the web comic, which he could conform to without straying too far from his daily drawing style for books like Ultimate Spider-Man and New Avengers .  You’ll also hear about their next collaboration which is just getting started called Russian Olive To Red King.

You’ll hear about Kathryn’s latest writing efforts  from the recent weekly 5 part mini series Heralds for Marvel , her Shamrock story in Girls Comics drawn by Colleen Coover, and call backs to her work on Runaways with Sara Pichelli and Hellcat with David LaFuente . Kathryn promises more Patsy Walker/Hellcat in the near future.

Stuart also discusses the prospects of more Nextwave from himself and Warren Ellis, and his current work on New Avengers with Brian Bendis.

On this episode of the Word Balloon Podcast we present another San Diego Panel moderated by yours truly.

For the fifth time the San Digo Comic con hosted a panel dedicated to comic book podcasts. Joining me on the panel were iFanboy's own Josh Flanagan, along with Jimmy Aquino (Comic News Insider), Brian "Pants" Christman (Comic Geek Speak), Bob Bretall (The Comic Book Page), and Cameron Hatheway (Cammy's Comic Corner).

The topics ranged from the most significant events in the last 5 years of the comics industry, a digital comics debate, the most impressive creators of the era, and where each host drew the line in terms of journalistic ethics, critiquing comics, and the podcaster's role in industry punditry. Recorded Thursday July 22nd 2010

Word Balloon is proud to present our San Diego Comicon coverage, begining with the spotlight panel on Brian Michael Bendis. During thsi live presentation of the Bendis Tapes Featuring questions from the con audience, Brian recieved the con's prestigious Inkpot Award from Comicon's director of print and publications Gary Sassaman , Jeph Loeb asks Brian to be the executive producer of the upcoming ultimate spider-man animated series, and fielded many questions about his marvel and creator owned books.

Here’s part 2 of my summer conversation with Jason Aaron. We talk about Jason’s views on the relationship between Spider-Man and Wolverine and the vibe he’s trying to cinvey in their team-up book.

We talk abut Scalped and where the story is in terms of it’s series arc. Jason compares the editing styles of Axel Alonso and Will Dennis , and talks about the evolution of Vertigo Comics.  We also discuss the differences between Vertigo and Marvel’s MAX line.

Like many returning guests of Word Balloon, the conversation turns to our favorite Movies, TV and Music. We talk about Tv shows like Michael Mann’s Crime Story, the FX series Justified, and the films of William Petersen , and Jason’s love of country music.

Matt Kindt about his new Vertigo Graphic Novel Revolver. A great chasing end of the world action thriller that has a twist of science fiction at its core.

On this edition of the Loeb Report we get into the questions from our word balloon listeners. We’ll hear more about the creation of Ultimate X with Art Adams , and story points from HULK and New Ulltimates. We’ll learn about  the current status of works in progress, like Captain America White with Tim Sale and the yet unnamed Spider-Man project with J Scott Campbell. And Jeph looks back  revisiting details on Batman: Hush and Ultimatum, how he originally got the job writing Cable in 1994. You’ll find out Jeph’s view on this years slate of comic book films, what pieces of original art he owns from past collaborators, and the difficulties of writing Spider-Man’s quips, and the toughest story Loeb ever wrote., and the seemingly unending  teen devotion to his work as screenwriter on the films Commando and Teen Wolf.

Sean McKeever is here to discuss the new Marvel book, The Young Allies, whose 2nd issue debuts today, with a 2nd printing of issue #1 . Sean talks about the formation of the ensemble and quick to correct you if you call this a team book. We discuss the entire group of individuals put together in this story situation, along with a look at the one shorts short stories and minis that led up to the YA series.

Today Allan Heinberg is back to talk about avengrs the childrens crusade. The 9 part bi-monthly series begins this week, and re-unites the young avengers creative team of Heinberg and artist Jim Cheung.  The story is a self contained event the crosses the Avengers and -X-men worlds, as Young Avenger Wiccan searches for the women he believes is his mother , Wanda the Scarlet Witch . The longtime Avenger’s mind seemed to shatter as she killed Avenger teamates and Mutants in the mid 2000 events Avengers Disassembled and House Of M .

Allan talks about writing a story that will stand the test of time, while  trying not to conflict with the current month
to month continuity.

We also discuss his 4 years of work on the popular tv series Grey’s Anatomy comming to a close and the similarities and differences of the TV writers room, compared to the Marvel creative summits .

Plus a short talk with web comic creator Patrick Scullins who discusses his two connected features Supersiblings, and his family web strip

Time for a new Loeb report. Jeph made news this week  when he was named Vice President of Marvel TV and explains what the job entails in the first part of our episode. You’ll also hear plenty of up to date information on Jeph’s current books, Hulk New Ultimates and Ultimate X

We go into detail on Hulk #23, and answer the question “Where does General Ross’s mustache go when he turn into the Red Hulk?” Jeph goes behind the scenes on Ultimate X #2 & #3 and what his Ultimate universe philosophy is on the surviving Mutants and Heroes in the post Ultimatum world.

On this episode of Word balloon, Jason Aaron is back to talk about finding the voices of the characters he writes. From discovering his take on Spider-Man for the Astonishing Spider-Man Wolverine book, and the current arc in Wolverine Weapon X. You'll hear plenty about the current Deathlok/Captain America story.  We also talk a lot about the upcoming reboot of the Wolverine solo book in September, including the opening arc called "Wolverine In Hell". You'll hear about Jason's versions of a senior citizen Frank Castle, and year one depictions of The Kingpin and Bullseye in The Max Punisher series, and why Aaron felt the tone of the Max book had to change from Garth Ennis's run. Plus details about Scalped, Jason's ongoing crime series for Vertigo. 

We go into detail about The Jonah Hex movie. Plus discuss the best selling sucsess of the New Hex OGN,
No Way Back. An artistic overview of the diverse artists
who’ve contributed to Jimmy and co-writer Justin Grey’s run. From regular artist Jordi Bernet, to co-creator Tony DeZuniga . 3 Bernet stories in the drawer, and JH Williams returning to the book.

We also talk about Jimmy and Justin’s OGN Random Acts Of Violence and the uphill battle of doing quirky little genre books. Translating the Torpedo Crime comics for IDW, His upcoming projects like WW2 espionage adventure Time Bomb, drawn by Paul Gulacy, the new Freedom Fighters for DC, and celebrate the incredible work of Amanda Conner with Jimmy and Justin on Power Girl & the Supergirl strip for Wednesday’s Comics. 444

Plus with a home on the Gulf of Mexico in Florida, Jimmy
talks about the BP oil spill and reminds us this gigantic environmental crisis is a problem we all share.

Our Jinworld Q&A continues with more info on New Avengers Vol2 #1, information on  Bendis's san diego panels, and more

On this edition of Word balloon , it’s part four of The Bendis Tapes. More talk about Avengers Prime and New Avengers #1 plus you’ll hear about Brian’s one on one interview with writer/director David Mamet some San Diego announcements and recollections of  little known career moments. Like the fact that Bendis was offered the chance to write the Dick Tracy Comic strip with art by Mike Oeming, but Warren Beatty’s long standing option on the Tracy license squashed the plan. You’ll hear about his early days in Cleveland assisting Mike Gustovich on things like The Justice Machine. Plus  turning down such industry jobs as making foot fetish comics, and saying no to Mexican vampire comics which he would’ve drawn under the name “Manuel Sanchez “…it’s true.

This was supposed to be a friendly conversation with Mark Schultz, to discuss his work on DC books like The Spirit with Moritat, Mark's scripting of the Sunday Prince valiant newspaper comic strip with Gary Gianni, and past and future Schultz projects.

Then we learned of the death of artist Al Williamson Sunday.  Mark was good friends with Al and his wife Cori. The good news is Mark and I spent part of conversation talking about Al's seminal work on Flash Gordon. Last Year Mark wrote the Flesk publication collection of Al’s version of Flash.

In addition I wanted another guest to talk about more of Willamson’s incredible art, so I roped Athena Voltaire creator Steve Bryant into a short interview about Al.

The result ? A history lesson of Williamson, Comic Strips, and great comic works from the 50's through the 90's , and a very special WB episode.

We debut Word Balloon Unversity, with a course in Web Comics from the Summit City Comicon Panel. ​
Featuring Katie Cook (Clone Wars- Gronk!) , Dave Wachter (Guns Of Shadow Valley)  Mike Schwartz (Oceanverse) , and Andrew Fraizer (Bridgette's Belly)

On this edition of the podcast, ​more questions answered by Marvel writer Brian Michael Bendis as we continue to discuss his runs on the Avenger titles, Ultimate Spider-Man , his creator owned properties and more. In this part, you'll hear more background on the first chapter of the Oral History Of The Avengers, Why the Next Avengers were chosen for their role in the first Avengers Arc, Comparisons of the Scarlet Witch and The Sentry’s mental breakdowns, which hero was let down more by their compatriots?  The continuing discussion of the $3.99 monthly comic book price. Movie talk about Spider-Man 4 ,  and an offer from Warner Bros to write the Flash movie? Pranks played on DC creators at Con Panels , and another healthy dose of pop culture talk.

Kelly Sue is here to talk about her recent run of stories happening at Marvel, from her One-Shots featuring Sif and Pepper Potts (Rescue) , plus stories happening in The Heroic Age & Girl Comics. Plus I feel compelled to get into a discussion about a subject that I thought wasn't relevent anymore.

 ​Is there still a glass ceiling when it comes to women creators in comics? Don't we laud several accomplished writers and artists?
Are women being denied the chance to make books, because of gender?

Kel isn't her to speak "for all womankind" , but I did want her POV, and we get it. Plus the type of random pop culture fun I'd expect from a woman who's married to Matt Fraction. Crazy timing on this talk. Kel was days away from giving birth to their daughter Tallulah . Welcome to the nuthouse kid, and good luck.

IFC Film Podcast Host and Critic Matt Singer is back to talk about this seasons new comic book films. We discuss Kick ass The Losers and Iron Man 2 . How did they do and what were the studio's expectations on these and the upcoming films like Jonah Hex & Scott Pilgrim Vs The Universe. We also talk about the comic book  films in production, Thor, Green Lantern & Captain America, The First Avenger, Plus Matt recommends some more lousy films to laugh at .

More of Bendis's Q&A from his Jinxworld Message Board . You'll learn more about his current runs on the Avenger books, Ultimatepider-Man Powers, his creator owned series Scarlett and Powers. Plus plenty of pop culture talk.

On this edition of the Word balloon podcast, we begin our C2E2 convention coverage with three guetss.

From the con floor artist Cliff Chiang talks about the new issue of Brave And Bold #33, on sale today featuring a girls night out between Zatanna, Batgirl, and Wonder Woman, written by J Michael Straczynski., plus Greendale, his upcoming original graphic novel, based on the music of Neil Young, written by Joshua Dysart.

We wrap up our talk with Matt Fraction, because we had to hold back our discussion about Casanova's move to Marvel's Icon inprint, it's conversion to color, and what it's like working with the Brazilian Brother art team of Gabriel Ba and Fabio Moon.

Finally Brian Bendis is back to talk about his new creator owned Icon series Scarlet with co-creator Alex Maleve . We also talk about the IPad, and other digital issues regarding Spider-Woman, Powers, The Ultimate Universe,  and The Avengers .

In the episode of Word Balloon,host John Siuntres wraps up his marathon chat with the Marvel writer.
You'll here more fan questions that lead to covering topics like  the upcoming 68 page Mandarin story
in the next Iron Man Annual, Matt's favorite X-Men, A sense of the direction for the first arcs of Matt's debut run
on  Thor,, and more.

Marvel writer Matt Fraction is here to discuss his current books, the craft of comic writing , and answer a ton of fan questions.
The Fraction family is expecting their 2nd child, any day now, so Matt wanted to check in before he's elbow deep in diapers and formula (which is similar to when he visits Bendis ) and talk about what's ahead. We begin a 2 part word balloon conversation that will conclude next tuesday.

In part 1 of Matt's Fireside chat,we pay tribute to the passing of artist/editor Dick Giordano.You'll learn the origin of The Doctor America story he co-created with Brendan McCarthy for "Who Won't Wear The Shield?" We discuss Matt's Iron Man/Thor Free Comic Book Day issue, with John Romita Jr.

Fraction also takes us through his earliest editorial cues through Civil War, and all events that led to the upcoming Heroic Age.  he explains the nature of iron man's series having a science fiction feel. What kind of leader has Scott Summer's become in
the wake of the mutant war? How will he reconcile Psylocke's white and asian backgrounds? Matt also tells us what's next for the X-Men after second coming , gives new creators tips on where to look for young artists,  and hints at some creator owned projects ion the way

Phil Hester joins us to say he’s not chasing batgirl anymore. The artist has been a busy writer creating the Anchor for Boom Studios, writing The Darkness for top cow, and black terror for dynamite. We get the lowdown on al of these series, plus Phil talks about some deals brewing for The Coffin and Fire Breather, and we talk about the changing comics market, and why some creators may be holding onto their best ideas for their own exploitation. The conversation starts with Phil’s role as breakdown artist on Dynamite’s Green Hornet series adapted from an unfilmed screenplay by Kevin Smith

from  May 8th 2006, as my description said back then...

THE EDITOR BEHIND THE AMAZING
SPIDER-MAN, BLACK PANTHER, MOON
KNIGHT AND THE PUNISHER, TALKS
ABOUT HIS INPUT IN MARVEL'S CIVIL
WAR, PLUS WE LOOK BACK AT
CONTROVERSIAL PROJECTS LIKE CAPTAIN AMERICA :
TRUTH, THE RAWHIDE KID, AND THE
GARTH ENNIS MAX NICK FURY MINISERIES.

YOU'LL HEAR ABOUT AXEL'S NUTURING
OF NEW ARTISTS AND WRITERS , AND
WHY HE'S AS LEERY AS SOME READERS
ABOUT EVENT BOOKS.

Always happy to welcome back John Ostrander, who's back to talk about Star Wars Legacy, and why it's at a good point to jump on if you haven't checked it out before. we also discuss hisrecent work at DC. like 3 spectacular issues f eret Six, which featured an incredible one issue story on Deadshot, and a 2 issue Blackest Night tie-in that put the Suicide Squad against The Six. We talk about Amanda Waller's apearences in Smallville, talk about new projects in the works featuring Grimjack and Munden's Bar, and wonder why DC hasn't collecteed John & Del Close's amazing horror-comedy series Wasteland. 

Here's a neat find from 1977. DC Comics Editor Joe Orlando voices this edition of the DC Hotline  with news about a few "new" titles and features, and a surprise guest , who comments on the toll free phone message promotion, which kept me calling every week.

The Top Cow Publisher talks about the entire line and previews books like Broken Trinity Pandora's Box, Artifacts, and More

On this episode, writer Steve Englehart joins us to talk about his two novels out from Tor Books, The Point Man & The Long Man, a political intrigue/mens adventure/fantasy  series featuring the immortal hero Max August. We talk about the similarities and differences of this take pn magic in the "real world" compared to his work on doctor strange.

We also talk about Captain America comapring Steve's 1970s secret Empire/Watergate story, and the flap over the Teabaggers in Ed Brubaker's Cap 602. Steve also gives us something to think about as he compares the unpublished third chapter of his and Marshal Rogers Batman: Dark Detective story and some of the plot details in the film Batman: The Dark Knight. Interesting views from Englehart.

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On this episode I cover some WB news, and re-present this feb 2006 talk with keith, who was in the midst of doing the weekly breakdowns on DC's 52. We also cover the bwa-ha-ha style of humor he, JM DeMatties & Kevin Maguire did for the Justice League, and other team books. Plus we talk about the JSA in the 1970's All-Star Comics , including the debut of Power Girl. You'll hear about his work on the Blue Beetle, with John Rogers and Cully Hamner, marvel work with the Defenders and more.

Jeremy Haun is back to talk about the Bat-verse. From his work on Manhunter the Co Feature Of Streets Of Gotham , to his upcoming run on Detective with David Hine, Haun gives us the lowdown on what's coming up for Dick Grayson and Damian Wayne .

Plus we talk about the Top Cow series Bezerker, and Haun's 2010 convention plans which include the debut of his deluxe sketchbook PORTAL, looking back at his last 10 years, featuring his work at DC, Marvel, Oni Image Wildstorm & more.

Image comics is releasing GODLAND Celestrial Edition Vol 2 very soon, so I thought it would be a good time to revisit this 2005 talk with writer Joe Casey. We talk about his coloaboration with artist Tom Scioli and their love of the Kirby cosmic era brought to life in this incredible series.

We also look back at Automatic Kafka with Ashley Wood, Batman Faces with Cully Hamner, Joe's run on Superman, and his 2005 mini series with scot Kollins, Avengers Earth's Mightiest Heroes.

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A great conversation with artist Ethan Van Sciver. We talk about the delays that happened during his work on Flash Rebirth. The final issue comes out at the end of this month.Ethan gives an apology to his readers, with no excuses, but an explanation.

We also discuss his view that artists may not have equal power in today's comic creative process. Has the pendulum swung to writers in the same disproportionate way artists led during the 90's?

Plus we talk about his designs for The Flash and Green Lantern universes, from what happened to Wally West's "new look" , to the new Impluse, Jessie Quick, and the contrasts to Ethan's Green Lanteern work.

Marvel writer Jonathon Hickman discusses his current and future plans for books like The Fantastic Four, Secret Warriors, and the upcoming debut of his April SHIELD origin series.

 

 

Neal Holman, the Art Director of the new FX animated series ARCHER joins us for a look at the show, his histry working on Sealab 2021 and Frisky Dingo, and what to expect as Archer's first season rolls on. Archer stars E Jon Hofman, Jessica Walters Chris Parnell Judy Greer, and Aisha Tyler , and airs Thursday nights at 10 E/P on FX

On this episode of the word balloon podcast,a conversation with the two producers of the Cartoon Network animated series Batman: The Brave And Bold, James Tucker and Michael Jellenic. We get previews of plots and characters that are coming up in this new second season. The series airs new epsiodes Friday Nights at 7:30 e/p

Through the conversation the guys get into many details about the previous DC animated series, and answer the questions of why shows Justice League and Teen Titans ended, despite their high levels of popularity with geek fandom.

Wanted to get this sneak preview of the next Word Balloon episode out, so you can hear the details before tonight's all new episode of Batman: The Brave and Bold airs on Cartoon Network. Show Producers James Tucker and Michael Jelenic gave great details of which golden age characters you can expect to see. From the Jay Garrick Flash, Wildcat, and two generations of Black Canaries, to the pre-title sequence featuring Detective Chimp, you'll hear a lot about the plot of tonight's story "The Golden Age Of Justice". The full WB episode with Tucker and Jellenic, which features more preview details of the new B&B season will be posted Monday.

On this episode of the word balloon podcast, writer JT Krul talks about his current and future projects. We discuss his successful mini series Blackest Night Teen Titans and subsequent Titans stories featuring Deathstroke, Jericho and Ravager We'll also preview his 40 page one shot Justice league Rise and Fall, the upcoming Arsenal mini series Justice League The Rise Of Arsenal and JT's run on Green Arrow beginning with issue #31 JT will also preview his new Aspen Comics modern day espionage series Mindfield, which debuts with a #0 issue in April. " We wrap up talking about JT's TV days on the production crew of Seinfeld, and his view of where network episodic television is, and may be going in the seasons to come.

The creative team behind The Punisher's strange new direction join me for a Frank (Castle) discussion about turning the Mob's most feared enemy into the hero of Marvel's subterranean Monster community.

2010 will be a pivotal year in comics, as Disney takes over Marvel, and Time Warner takes more direct control over DC Entertainment. I thought this was a good timeto re-post another "lost episode" from 2005.

Gerard Jones wrote an incredible history of comics fornative years, called Men Of Tommorow. The book focused on the creation of Superman, and the creative and business men behind DC comics, All American, and plenty of other publishers of the golden age.