On this edition of Word Balloon, we wrap up 2011 with another multi guest show. We wrap up our last conversation of the year with Brian Michael Bendis who gives us updates on Takio, The Avengers Film, and his television projects like the Powers, pilot for FX, The Ultimate Spider-Man cartoon, and AKA Jessica Jones. We also talk about the recent cancellations of b-level character books, which begs the question “Can an ongoing c-level book survive in this current comic market?”

Next Will Pfieffer joins us to talk about his new gig co-writing Iron Man 2.0 with Nick Spencer to close out the current series.  DC comics also has re-released Will’s Batman Legends Of The Dark Night story Blaze Of Glory drawn by Chris Weston . Plus he has a new Tor Books original graphic novel due out in March . It’s a sci-fi suspense thriller called The Advance Team.  Will’s day job is a DVD reviewer for the Rockford Register Star newspaper, so we go over some of the quirkiest DVD releases for 2011.

Finally Atomika creator Sal Abbinanti wraps up his talk about the art exhibition  of his paintings going on at Challengers Comics in Chicago through January 9^th.

In each interview, there's a lot of backmatter about Movies Television DVDs and the pop culture things we love. Enjoy, and Happy New Year! 

Time Code 

Brian Bendis     00:00-46:00

Will Pfeiffer      46:01-2:03:01

Sal Abbinanti  2:03:02-3:05:00

Happy Holidays! Here's a four guest spectacular to help you get through the travel times to and from your holiday destinations.

First Brian Michael Bendis joins us for the start of a 2 part talk. We discuss the upcoming 2012 event Avengers versus X-Men, what's happening with the return of Norman Osbourne and a new team of Dark Avengers , plus Moon Knight, and this week's issue of Ultimate Spider-man #5.

Walter Simonson is up next. He talks about stepping down as an art teacher to concentrate on some future creator owned projects. Plus we look back at this year's release of the IDW Simonson Mighty Thor Artist Edition . Walter takes us behind the scenes explaining the process of putting this incredible project together. He also tell us about the experience of being in this year's Thor movie. We also look back at Walter's first writing assignments which led to his adaptation of Raider's Of The Lost Ark, with artist John Buscema , and the details behind a Batman sketch that led to a classic cover and story.

Then Paul Cornell Joins us to talk about his work on DC's new 52. We discuss his run on Stormwatch, which ends with next month's issue #5. Then we examine in depth the ideas behind Demon Knights . Paul takes us through all the main characters and hints at the book's future direction. Cornell also previews his upcoming Vertigo book Saucer Country which debuts in March, and a new sci-fi-police procedural novel he describes as " Buffy meets The Sweeney".

Finally we check in with Sal Abbinanti , the creator of Atomika . Sal has an art show of original paintings of heroes and villains going on through January 9th at Challengers Comics Rouges Gallery in Chicago.

00:00-57:57-     Brian Bendis

57:58-1:39:25-  Walter Simonson

139:26-237:15-  Paul Cornell

237:16-259:58   Sal Abbinanti

237:16-259:58   Sal Abbinanti

On this edition of Word Balloon, we spend a lot of time discussing the DC universe. First John Rood DC Entertainment's Executive Vice President of Sales, Marketing and Business Development joins us to breakdown the November numbers from Diamond as the new 52 propels DC to another winning month, however the gap between them and Marvel comics and Marvel Comics is narrowing. Rood gives us an idea of what the buying trends are now that there is 3 months of New 52 data to examine. Plus, we get some demographics from The Nielsen Surveys DC conducted with consumers.

Then James Robinson joins us for his first full length WB chat. Robinson explains how he got into reading American comic books growing up in London England. We discuss The Shade Maxi Series, and his exploration of this new DC Universe. Plus we look back on his recent runs on Superman, and The Justice League. James explains his ideas of characterization for heroes Like Donna Troy, villains like Solomon Grundy, and fan reactions to those choices.

Finally, we have a transcontinental talk with the entire Brazilian art team on Aquaman. Penciller Ivan Reis, Inker Joe Prado, and Colorist Rod Reis talk about the Brazilian comics scene, and why they chose to go from working on Green Lantern to Aquaman. Despite speaking in a 2nd language rather than their native portuguese, all three creators conduct a very nuanced and complex conversation discussing their art and love of certain characters with full command of the english language.

Here for your holiday pleasure, a Word Balloon triple feature. We wrap things up with Rob Liefeld, who talks about his work with Robert Kirkman on The Infinite for Image Comics. Then Rob goes into detail with his full slate of books he'll be releasing in 2012 under the Extreme Imprint.Liefeld goes down the roster of creators on his various titles, which includes Erik Larsen writing and drawing SUPREME.

Then Alex Di Campi joins us to discuss her upcoming graphic novel Ashes with artist Jimmy Braxton. Ashes is a 252 page story which Alex is trying to fund via kickstarter. The story is a sequel to her Eisner nominated 2005 IDW story SMOKE. Di Campi has been a long time veteran in the digital comics market with the 2009 story Valentine. She talks about the successes and missteps she had with that book, and shares some innovative ideas on how self publishers can partner with comics stores on both the print and digital versions of a comic book. 

Finally Matt Fraction is back to wrap up his latest Fireside Chat with some TV and Film talk. 

Time Code 

00:00-132:59 Rob Liefeld 

133:00-210:14 Alex De Campi

210:15-The End Matt Fraction 

On this episode of Word Balloon, we begin our two part conversation with artist and Image Comics Co-Founder Rob Liefeld. In part 1 Rob talks about what it's like working as a free lance artist at Comics Big 2 publishers Marvel and DC. He just finished an 8 year stint at Marvel which included such projects as Onslaught Reborn, Deadpool Corps and many covers. Currently Rob is drawing Hawk and Dove as part of DC's New 52 initiative. Rob compares the current strategies of the 2 companies as he sees them , including what's happening for both at the film and toy levels, which he sees as key indicators on where their publishing is currently focused. 

Then Greg Rucka is back for part 2 of The Rucka Debrief, answering fans questions about the current status of fan favorite projects like Queen And Country and Stumptown from Oni Press, along with reflecting observations on "52", the weekly DC event of 2006. Looking back, how would Greg describe the collaborative work with writers Grant Morrison, Mark Waid and Geoff Johns, artist Keith Giffen, and editors Steve Wacker and Michael Siglain? 

Lots of candid conversation in this episode of Word Balloon. 

On this episode of Word Balloon, we speak with Dc Entertainment Vice Presidents Bob Wayne (Sales) and John Rood (Sales Marketing and Business Development) about DC Comics big sales for the month of October. Month 2 of the New 52 showed a

greater market share, with DC claiming about 50% of the total sales pie for single issues.

John and Bob Talk about some of the surprising sales trends both digitally and in the direct market.We also get more details about the 100 graphic novels and collected stories available on the new Amazon Kindle Fire device. You'll also hear about future plans and partnerships to promote Dc Comics and upcoming TV and film projects like Cartoon Network's DC Nation, and next summer's Batman film.

Then we begin a new 2 part Greg Rucka Debrief. In this episode Greg talks about his current work on The Punisher with Marco Checcetto. Greg gives an overview of his view on how Frank Castle operates in the 616 universe and what obstacles are inherent in a superhero filled world.

Rucka also discusses his new web comic with Rich Burchett "Lady Sabre and The Pirates of the Ineffable Aether" . The story marries steam punk swashbuckling pirates with a gun toting western duo all living on a fantastic planet of magic, floating ships and cities. The twice weekly webcomic is starting it's 3rd chapter this Thursday. New readers can go the website and find archives of the firt 2 chapters plus character essays, maps and information that provide a rich backdrop for this rollicking adventure.

Then, a conversation with Kevin Tavolaro Nino Lopez and Joe Peicott , some of the producers behind the new Science Channel TV series Prophets Of Science Fiction, debuting tonight at 10pm eastern/pacific time. Filmmaker Ridley Scott (Alien, Blade Runner) hosts this 8 part series features profiles on noted Sci-Fi creators who's dreams of the future inspired many real scientific advances. From Mary Shelly's Frankenstien, to George Lucas's Star Wars, you'll hear scientists, noted science fiction authors and filmmakers give their thoughts on these remarkable thinkers.

The show will feature comments film clips and images from people like writers Harlan Ellison and Robert Silverberg, Tv producers Brannon Bragga (Star Trek) and Dan Vedders (Futurama), comic book creators Matt Fraction and Chirs Ware, plus a certain podcast host Word Balloon listeners may be familiar with.

Time Code

00:00-23:20 DC VPs John Rood & Bob Wayne

23:21-127:27 Rucka Debrief Part 1 

127:28-149:42 Prophets Of Science Fiction 

On this episode of Word Balloon, Matt Fraction willingly debates the story beats of Fear Itself. 

All of the tough questions are asked. We talk about the recent trend of the event story epilogues 

occuring outside of the actual series. Why kill Thor, when he just had just been ressurected, and 

isn't it likely he'll be back in time for next summer's Avenger's film? 

You'll also hear what's coming next in Casanova, Iron Man and Tanarus God Of Thunder, plus an informative preview

of The Defenders. Matt expands on what we've seen in the Fear Itself epilogue, and how the Hulk hands this

new Defenders line up it's first problem. You'll heardetails on the team's line-up, plus Fraction discusses his

decision to write this book in a modified Marvel style collaboration with Terry Dobson, as opposed to

the usual full script.

For aspiring writers Matt goes in detail about the different disipline of writing 20 page issues 

compaed to the former 22 page comic. It's more compliated than just cutting 2 pages from each chapter. 

Then IFC Film Critic Matt Singer joins me to talk about this years slate of comic book films. 

From The Green Hornet, The Marvel films Thor Captain America,X-Men First Class,  Green Lantern, 

Cowboys and Aliens, to the coming Tin Tin movie, We'll discuss the successes and failures. Plus we 

preview next year's slate of movies.

On this edition of Word Balloon, we check in with writer Chris Roberson to talk about his new IDW DC Comics crossover between the Original Crew Of Star Trek, and The Legion Of Superheroes. We also look at his Vertigo Books like I Zombie with Mike Alred and His work in The Fables Universe on the Cinderella mini series From Fabletown With Love drawn by Sean McManus . Her fairy tale spy adventures will continue next year with a new 2012 6 part story, Fables Are Forever.

Chris also gives details about the tough task of taking over the last 7 parts of J Michael Straczynsk's aborted Superman 12 part story Grounded. We discuss the one chapter of his story depicting a muslim super hero inspired by Superman, that was deemed too controversial to be published , and what it's future fate might be.

Then Jeremy Haun is back to promote his new book for Top Cow's Pilot Season called The Beauty, co-written with Jason Hurley. Jeremy is also wrapping up his work on The Top Cow Event Artifacts with Ron Marz, and soon takes over art chores on The Darkness teaming up with new writer David Hine. Haun and Hine worked on Batman in Detective Comics and last year's Arkham Reborn mini series.

On this epsisode of Word Balloon we hit the floor of last week's New York Comic Con and speak with a number of creators.
You'll hear talks with Frank Quitley (Batman & Robin Multiplicity) , Chris Burnham (Batman Leviatham) Matt Wagner (Legendary Comics) , Shane Davis (Superman Earth One Vol 2)  Gabriel Hardman (Betrayal Of The Planet Of The Apes, Secret Avengers) Mahmud Asrar (Supergirl) Tom Fowler (Venom) Fred Van Lente (Alpha Flight, Comic Book Comics ) Ryan Dunleavey ( Comic Book Comics , MTV Comics)  Brent Schoonover (Mr. Murder is Dead, Astronaut Dad) Jon and Matt Roscehtti (Venture Bros, Growing Up Comics) and Dave Elliott  (Marksmen Red Spike Heavy Metal) 

Time Code

Intro 00:00-01:45

Frank Quitley, Chirs Burnham, & Matt Wagner 01:46-10:13

Gabriel Hardman 10:14-15:47

Mahmud Asrar 15:48-18:55

Fred Van Lente & Ryan Dunleavy 18:56-29:57

Shane Davis 29:58-46:31

Tom Fowler & Tom King 46:32-57:16

Brent Schoonover 57:17-105:52

Jon & Matt Roschetti 105:53-111:50

Dave Elliot 111:51-136:12
Close 136:13-137:20

Writer and radio broadcaster Steve Darnall joins us to talk about his past works in comics. Steve worked in the fringe genres as the comics market struggled to survive after the speculation era went bust. You'll hear about his collaboration with Alex Ross on the 2 part UNCLE SAM prestige series , to his parody of classic romance comics for Slave Labor Graphics and his own companmy Funny Valentine.

We also talk about Steve's current job hosting 2 radio shows which present classic Old Time Radio programs Those Were The Days and Yesterday USA, where he puts a historical context while presenting dramas comedies and documentaries made from the 1930s-1950s. As opposed to a nostalgic "Remember When" angle that older hosts use for a geritatric audience, Steve's show is one of discovery for a younger generation who come to these programs with a fresh perspective.

Then we talk about the radio superheroes some of which predate the 1938 debut of Superman. Darnall talks about the origins of The Lone Ranger and Green Hornet, created by Detroit radio station WXYZ owner Geoge W Trendle and writer Fran Striker. We also look at the 1940 Superman radio serial. You'll learn how many of the common phrases and plot points of the comics originated on radio like Jimmy Olson, kryptonite, and the infamous lines from Metropolis  citizens "Look, up in the sky ..." .

On this episode ogf Word Balloon Brad Meltzer is back to discuss the 2nd season of
Brad Meltzer's Decoded which premieres tonight at 9pm Easter/Pacific On The History
Channel. Brad recaps some of the highlights of season one, and a preview of this season.
The show goes global to investigates mysteries surrounding The Vatican, Fort Knox and more.

Plus Brad promises for JSA fans,the real story behind Adolph Hitler and The Spear Of Destiny.

We also talk about The Inner Circle Meltzer's latest novel, now available in paperback.

The comic news blogosphere has erupted this week in editorials and op-ed pieces over the depiction of Starfire in the DC Comic Red Hood And The Outlaws and The first issue of Catwoman, which ends with a sex scene involving Batman. Too much for mainstream comics? I debate the subject with Vaneta Rogers . We also talk about the overall success of DC's new 52, and their employing the Nielsen Company to conduct reader surveys.

Today's show features creators who are spotlighting their current books, but also give writing art and publishing tips for aspiring creators.

Mark Waid discusses his work for Boom Studios and writing Daredevil for Marvel, but he also discusses how he approaches writing established charcters , from figuring Superman out, to still being uncomfortable writing Thor and Wonder Woman.

Robert Atkins talks about his art on IDWs GI JOE COBRA COMMANDER with writer Chuck Dixon, and an upcoming original graphic novel with Larry HAma, but also talks about using his blog and social networking to expand his fan base.

Finally Sam Humphries and Steve Sanders join us to talk about their controversial sci-fi sex parody Our Love Is Real . This summer the duo self published the comic and discuss the platforms and distribution avenues they took to market andsell their book. Their befforts got Image Comicsattention and the book is being realesed in November, but that version has its own method of distribution, and the guys tell us how their selling process continues to evolve.

A timely news triple feature. First up DC Comics vice presidents John Rood and Bob Wayne discuss the debuting success of DC Comics New 52. The first 3 weeks of releases have sold out at the retailer level, and Rood and Wayne talk about what's next.

The Gabriel Hardman and Corrina Bechklo discuss their new mini series for Boom Studios Betrayal Of The Planet Of The Apes. The creators talk about this prequel to the original film series, which features a young Dr. Zaius freshly elected to the governing council.

The Duo has also a story in Four Star Studio's Digital Comic Double Feature. A tight spy thriller called The Liar, plus Gabe talks about his wrap-up on HULK with Jeff Parker.

Finally Podcaster and long time DC reader Tom Katers (Tom Vs Aquaman) discusses the recent transition from Flashpoint to the New 52.

Time Cues

Intro 00:00-3:07

John Rood and Bob Wayne 3:08-20:24

Gabe Hard-Corrina Bechko 20:25-1:25:00

Tom Katers 1:25:01-2:02:35

Close 2:02:36-2:03:52

Close 2:02:36-2:03:52

On this portion of the Bendis Tapes, we discuss the craft of comic book writing as Brian 

takes more questions from his Jinxworld message board.

In addition you'll hear more details of his work on the creative commitee for the Marvel Movies,

His work on the upcoming Marvel MMMO, and more story details on the Avenger books, Ultimate Spider-Man 

and other comics.  

Plus Brian gives his opinion on DC Comics NU 52, and how he sees comic book storytelling changing 

in the immediate future.

In part 1 of the latest Bendis Tapes we go over Brian's Summer vacation. You'll hear about the Powers TV pilot shoot in Chicago, and his adventures in the Windy City. Then we get behind the scene details of the developments in Ultimate Spider-Man. Brian tells us what led to the creation of Miles Morales and the controversey thart followed. We also get details on what's coming up in the pages of Bendis's Avengers titles, from working with Neal Adams and the return of Gabriel Del Otto, to Daredevil joining the team.

Then, G4's Fresh Ink comics reviewer Blair Butler has joined the ranks of comic book writers with Heart, a new Image mini series co-created by artist Kevin Mellon. The two join me to talk about this MMA comic, the inspiration behind it, and the challenge of capturing the fastest growing sport in comic book form. We also discuss the current news and trends in the comic book market.

A quick but great talk with the 100 Bullets crew Brian Azzarello Eduardo Risso and Dave Johnson , who just wrapped up the best FLASHPOINT tie-in story. The instant Batman classic, Knight Of Vengance, which tells the alternate universe story of Thomas Wayne taking up the mantle of The Bat, and how he dealt with the death of his son Bruce on that fateful night in crime alley. 

The guys give us a preview of their new VERTIGO series SPACEMAN, and talk about ther future projects, like Dave Johnson's work on the upcoming new season of the Venture Bros on Adult Swim.

Note- The recording of the talk was compromised, so there is some background surface noise, but you can still hear everyone clearly. 

On this episode of Word Balloon we check in with writer Robert Kirkman . You'll hear about the genesis of his new series with Rob Liefeld The Infinite from Image, plus an update on the status of their coloboration on KILLRAVEN for Marvel comics.
We also go in depth on The Walking Dead , discussing the differences in working on the TV show, and writing the comic. Robert takes us into the writing room, and production process with some details on season 2.

Note-This was recorded before the departure of Frank Darabont as the day to day show runner producer on The Walking Dead.

Then we wrap up or talk with Marty Pasko, which continues to explore little known facts about DC Comics in publishing television and film. Pasko try figure out  the answers to the questions of why is The DC reboot happening, why are the Retroactive books happening now? We also talk about Marty's TV and animation work on shows like GI JOE, and The Twilight Zone .
Note- That amazing Pasko Portrait was created by Michael Netzer

As the saying goes you don't know where you're going if you don't know where you've been. We explore the past and future changes at DC Comics. Pasko wrote the history for the 2007 DC Vault, and researched more material for last year's 75th anniversary Tashen book. You'll hear about Marty's 1970's DC retroactive Superman story, but also learn about deacdes of chnages and innovations to many of DC's top stars. From the stress filled stomach aches suffered by Wonder Woman editors when they got salacious stories from her creator William Moulton Martsers. Pasko and Cary Bates were given the task of coaching Mario Puzzo in Superman lore while Puzzo prepared to write the 1978 first screenplay draft for the Richard Donner film. You'll learn how editor Julie Schwartz revamped Batman in 1966, to catch the eye of television producer William Dozier and led to him craeting the ABC Batman TV show.

Then Vaneta Rogers Of Newsarama is back to talk about the coming changes in the DCNU. Rogers has interviewed nearly all of the craetors involved in the relaunch,and between us we try to put the pieces together to figure out what may be in store for readers this September.

Our San Diego Comic Con coverage begins with the 2 panels I was honored to moderate. First up Jonathan Hickman's Spotlight. This was Hickman's first SDCC in 5 years, and it was a chance to field craft questions from fans about his past Image and Marvel books, and a look at FF Secret Warriors and SHIELD , plus the New books The Red Wing, Feel Better Now, and his upcoming run on Ultimates.

Jon was candid about career ven gave an enthusiastic shout out to DC's new 52 !

Here's a  giant sized Word Balloon to have something to listen to, while you're traveling to the San Diego Comic-Con, taking a long plane/train/car trip, or spending the day running errands for hours. Nearly 4 hours of fantastic comic talk in one podcast! 

First up, Dan Slott gives us the low down on Spider Island, the coming event in Amazing Spider-Man, Venom, and several other Marvel comics in the next 3 months. It all starts with next week's ASM #666. 

Then, Gail Simone joined Art Baltazar and Franco!  on the Aw Yeah Podcast, and dropped some behind the scene clues about her books Batgirl and Firestorm. Both are part of the DCNU 52 title initiative happening in September. She talks about the transition Barbara Gordon will make from Oracle to her return to the bat tights. Gail also tells us how her Firestorm Co-Writer Ethan Van Sciver got her excited about writing the further adventures of Ronnie Raymond and Jason Rusch .

Finally Marty Pasko returns to talk about his new Superman Retroactive 1970's book. We start to compare the coming Man Of Steel reboot to the Bronze age re-boot, when Clark Kent went from Daily Planet Reporter, to WGBS Newscaster, and a worldwide chain reaction caused all of the kryptonite to change to iron. 

Plus, being the DC historian who helped create the DC VAULT and Taschem's DC 75th Anniversary books, Mary can't help but digress into great anecdotes about many writers artists and editors. You'll hear stories about every decade of the companies rich history. 

Because we're giving you so much to enjoy on this episode, here's a time code for all the guests and information. 

Open, including John's SDCC Schedule 00:00-2:49

Dan Slott 2:49-1:38:50

Gail Simone 138:50-2:23:47

Marty Pasko 2:23:47-3:50:08

A great conversation with 3 of today's hottest creators. First up, Kelly Sue DeConnick talks about her current run on Supergirl, which wraps up the character in the current DC continuity. Would you be surprised to learn Kelly Sue is only the 2nd female writer to pen the Supergirl monthly? DeConnick also expands on the fact that despite Gail Simone being the only female writer involved in DC's Nu 52, she was approached to pitch. She explains why she had to decline the offer., and the inevitable 'are there enough women in comics?" discussion ensues.

On  this episode of Word Balloon, its another double feature of top creators in conversation. First Brian Azzarello talks about his FLASHPOINT BATMAN mini series with Eduardo Risso, and the differences between Thomas and Bruce Wayne . We compare the different Batman stories Azzarello has told, from JOKER, BROKEN CITY and the weekly Wednessday comics We also discuss His new Vertigo science fiction series with Risso SPACEMAN. It premiered in the STRANGE ADVENTURES anthology and will begin it's first arc in the fall.

Brian also talks about the coming DC Reboot, and his thoughts on if his storytelling would change to cater to this new potential digital audience.

Then, Phil Hester talks about co-writing the new Bionic Man comic series, adapted from a unproduced Kevin Smith screenplay. Just like their Green Hornet collaboration, Hester and Smith tweak the script and Jonathan Lau handles the art chores.

Phil also talks about his continuing work on The Green Hornet, which he now co-writes with his regular
inking partner Ande Parks . He discusses the wrap ups to his run on The Darkness (which ends with issue 100)  to Wonder Woman Oddessy  and the transition to the DC Reboot., plus his work on IDWs Godzilla with Eric Powell .

 On this episode of Word Balloon we presenty a double feature with two artistc masters.

First up, part one of a conversation with John Romita Jr. We talk about his current run on Avengers
with Brian Bendis and Kick Ass 2 with Mark Millar. John also previews a creator owned series in the works
with Howard Chaykin. A 1970's New York crime/fantasy pastiche called Schmuggy anfd Bimbo.

Then Milestone founder Denys Cowan heads a panel recorded at this past weekend's Summit City Comioc Con
with fellow artists Angel Gabriel and Jeff Newman. Cowan and company recall their early days assiting Deathlok
creator Rich Buckler when Denys was 14.

Our reaserch exposed a dark secret to the audience, forcing Gabriel and Cowan to confess to their time in the 80's
in regional TV Wrestling on a show called POWERSLAM with infamous stars like Dick The Bruiser and Ox Baker.Gabriel was known as
THe Dark Angel, and Denys was a manager (check you tube)

Then Denys talks about his days on titles like The Question, Black Panther, Power Man
and Iron Fist, and a classic Batman run with Sam Hamm (the screenwriter of the 1989 Tim Burton Batman film).
He also tells the story of the formation of Milestone and the creation of their line of multi-racial heroes.

He reminices about his friend the late Dwayne McDuffie, who was the first creator he approached to join the venture,
and talks about the succeses and struglles that came after the company debuted. The panel talk about the creation of
Hardware and the symbolic metaphor of the glass celing struggle the creators dealt with.
 
Then Denys hints at 2 new upcoming projects a 5 part Batman story about the 5 phases of accepting death by Paul Levitz,
and a new Vertigo mini series with Selwyn Hinds, who worked on Case 21 with Cowan in the recent STRANGE ADVENTURES anthology.

A timely double feature, as Jeff Lemire talks about his DC flashpoint mini series featuring Frankenstein and The Creature Commandos, which spins off into one of the new 52 DC Reboot titles, plus his coming take on Animal Man. We also talk about his continuing Vertigo saga Sweet Tooth, and wrapping up his run on Superboy. Jeff tells us about learning that his take on Connor was coming to a close, and the excitement of pitching the new take on The Creature Commandos . We aslo talk about his great new origin of Ultra The Mutil Alien, in the recent Strange Adventures anthology.

Plus interviews with the stars and producers of TNT's new Sci-Fi summer series Falling Skies, featuring actors Noah Wiley and Moon Bloodgood, plus Co-Executive Producer Mark Verheiden, and Director Greg Beeman. You'll hear about the sow, and the comic book prequel currently online and coming in print from Dark Horse Comics . The show debuts this Sunday at 9pm Eastern/Pacific on TNT.

Finally, comic artist Francesco Francavilla joins us for a nice converstaion about his process, from his pencils
inking and coloring. We talk about his incredible recent work on books like DC's Detective Comics with Scott Snyder on the long awaited returnof James Gordon Jr,and Marvel's The Black Panther Man Without Fear series with David Liss.

We also talk about his Zorro work for Dynamite with Matt Wagner, his western story in Image Comics Outlaw Territory,
His story for the Jim Henson Storytellers Anthology from Archaia and his covers for The Lone Ranger-Zorro crossover.

Francesco describes the comic art studios of Italy, and how they are able to do monthly comics
that are 96 pages per issue.

Plus we discuss Francavilla's website Pulp Sunday, featuring more sketches web comics and lobby card
designsand his contributions to the artists blog Comic Twart. Check out his amazing art at his website .

Marty Pasko joins us as he returns to Metropolis writing  the 70’s DC Retroactive issue of Superman, drawn by Eduardo Barreto . We talk about the still amazing world of Superman. We ‘ll discuss the career of the late Jackie Cooper who played Perry White in the first 4 modern Superman films . Despite a good working relationship with Cooper on Simon & Simon in  the 80’s Pasko confesses he wasn’t crazy about the casting of Cooper  as Perry. Marty also describes the editorial philosophy of Julie Schwartz, and goes into interesting detail about how DC’s Silver and Bronze age books were written .

You’ll get insights into the cast of the 50’s Adventures Of Superman, Superman regulars like Mike Carlin, and Cary Bates  We also discuss the way DC and Warner Bros interacted in the 90’s , because Marty had the job as liason between the divisions of Warner  Film TV and animation with DC.

As the opening weekend of the Thor film approaches  Joe Quesada joins us for a candid look at his position as Chief Creative Officer at Marvel.  We talk about how the position has changed since Avi Arad had the title 10 years ago, and the lessons learned from the Marvel films of the last 10 plus years. Joe tells us why Kenneth Branaugh is a great collaborative director , how Robert Downey Jr has influenced Tony Stark’s persona in comics and animation.

Plus we explore questions regarding the monthly comic products. Have we reached a price ceiling at 3.99 for a 22 page comic? How will the conversion to digital effect the price point of single chapters and the current 5-6 part structure of story arcs?  Can Marvel take a longer gestation risk on a new ongoing title beyond the store order numbers of a first issue?

We also discuss the Marvel Television projects. From the animated Ultimate Spider-Man to live action projects like Jessica Jones, and the challenges of bringing spandex clad heroes to the small screen.

Hickman is back to finish the Q&A session we started earlier this month. More discussion of FF, Secret Warriors SHIELD and the new Plus books Hickman has planned to start coming out from Image later this year, including The Red Wing coming in July.

It's a new edition of APE TALK as Daryl Gregory writer of Boom Studios new Planet Of The Apes Comic series joins us. The new ongoing series is set in thne classic POTA film continuity and has an intersting starting point. Daryl tells us about his plans for the series plus we talk about his other sci-fi/comic book work.

On this episode of Word Balloon we present another chapter of The Bendis Tapes. You'll hear more about Bendis and Mark Bagley's new creator owned series Brilliant, The Death Of Spider Man story in Ultimate Spider Man, spoiler free wrap ups to Ultimate Doom and the first 5 issues of his Icon Series Scarlett, his point one avengers issues plus how his Avenger books will tie into Fear Itself,and result in big line-up changes for the 2 main Avenger teams.

We get a new TV update of Brian's work on The Ultimate Spider Man TV series,Powers, and the Jessica Jones series. Plus Brian takes more listener questions about the craft of writing comics and screenplays.

Jonathan Hickman begins his answers to your questions on FF, SHIELD, SECRET WARRIORS and more! We discuss his upcoming creator owned books , and discuss some recent comic book news.

Hours after the Marvel press releases told readers about a new Captain America issue one coming to coincide with the film's release, Ed Brubaker returns to Word Balloon, to give us the low down on how the book will play off charcters and ideas explored in the film.

Plus Ed's just wrapped up the latest Incognito arc. We discuss the story and the series future. Ed previews the return of Criminal with the new arc Last Of The Innocent, a genre mashup up of Crime, 50's teen comics, and Dr Fredrik Werthan's worst case scenarios of juvenal delenquency leading to adult deviance.

Wrapping up the coverage from this year's con chatting with Nick Spenser (Iron Man 2.0, FEAR ITSELF Secret Avengers)Fred Van Lente and Ryan Dunleavy (Comic Book Comics) Jai Nitz (Tron 2.0) Paul Storrie, Jeremy Bastion & Josh Elder

A good discussion was had amongst various hosts of many of the top comic book podcasts. You'll hear candid comments from Moderator Chris Nesemen (11 o'clock  Comics) Josh Flanagan (iFanboy) Brion Salazar (Around Comics) Chris Marshall (Collected Comics Library) Jim Segulin  (Raging Bullets) Peter Rios (Comic Geek Speak) Stevie Disme (Comic Book Queers), and yours truly .

Our C2E2 coverage begins with floor talks featuring Paul Cornell (DC Action Comics,  Knight and Squire) Jesse Blaze Snider (Dynamite's Evil Ernie) Frank Tieri (Marvel Wolverine-Hercules, Captain America) Cullen Bunn and Brian Hurtt (Oni Press The Sixth Gun) Chris Samnee ( Marvel Ultimate Spider-Man and Thor/Captain America) and John Ostrander (Dark Horse Star Wars Legacy and  Agent Of The Empire)

A great treat to talk with fellow podcaster and Comedian Scott Auckerman the host and co-founder of Comedy Death Ray Radio, one of the funniest and hippest podcasts out there. Scott is bringing his live show to C2E2, featuring Patton Oswalt with special guests Dan Telfer and Joe Mande.

Today we talk about the creation of the show, plus Scott's other comedic endeavors like producing Zach Galifanakis's hilarious Between Two Ferns talk show at <a href="http://www.funnyordie.com/between_two_ferns">Funny Or Die</a> , screenwriting and creating live and sketch comedy albums sold at his website <a href="http://www.earwolf.com/">earwolf.com</a>

On part 2 Bendis answers more fan questions and drops the following news tidbits ...

Bendis is announcing a new creator owned project at C2E2. Brian Hitch and Bendis have a 2012 project in the works. Spider-Woman will be featured prominently in Avengers 12.1 , and wait till you see Hitch’s Spider-Woman. Bendis is trying to get Romita to stop drawing Jessca Drew’s hair-do like Snooki’s.

On Moon Knight’s move to Los Angeles, Bendis hints there’s already been some LA world building going on to further exploit in Moon Knight, and no that doesn’t mean The Pride from Runaways will be featured.

Pkus Bendis explains why he'll no longer be part of THE SOCIAL NETWORK known as Facebook

On this edition of Word Balloon, Dan Slott is back to answer your questions, and because he can’t wait for everyone to check out this week’s Amazing Spider-Man 655. Dan calls it “the best issue I’ve ever worked on.”

Combined with the double page scene montage in the back of ASM 654.1 and the cover previews for the next 4 issues, there are plenty of telltale signs for the future of the Spiderverse. Dan’s shares what few details he can with us, from Spidey taking the Human Torch’s place in the new FF, to hints of a future ASM event called Spider-Island.

Very sad to hear we've lost Dwayne today. Last night, I just finished watching All Star Superman, which Dwayne had adapted from Grant Morrision's comic. It was another instant classic.

In tribute here is Dwayne's 2006 Word Balloon conversation. We talk a lot about his animation work on Static Shock and JLU, but also get into many of his comic creations for Milestone DC and Marvel.

Dwayne was a pleaure to speak to at cons and here in this conversation. Rest in Peace.

Ande is best known for his inking , collaborating with his longtime pal Phil Hester, but Parks has been honing his writing skliils on specials and annuals at Marvel, OGNs at Oni and now monthly series at Dynamite.

Currently Ande is all over the Kevin Smith Green Hornet Universe writing KATO and Green Hornet-Blood Ties, plus he's writing the Lone Ranger crossover The Death Of Zorro.

We discuss these heroes, plus look back at some of our favorite moments from a mutual real life hero, Orson Welles.

On this opening salvo to this season’s Bendis Tapes, we start with a closer look at the new Moon Knight series beginning in May. After a mixed reaction to last week's Marvel press conference Bendis addresses the initial concerns old time Marc Spector fans have with the idea that his 3 multiple personalities have doubled to include Steve Rogers, Spider-Man and Wolverine .

We talk about Takio the all ages graphic novel from Brian and his Powers co-collaborator Mike Oeming

On the Marvel movie front, Bendis gives a non detail disclosing thumbs up to the Thor film, and more importantly describes the environment of the meetings with Thor director Kenneth Branaugh . You’ll also hear behind the scenes details of the last Marvel retreat, which was the first led by new Editor In Chief Axel Alonso.

We also get updates on the many TV projects Bendis has in the works. You’ll hear about Powers at FX, AKA Jessica Jones at ABC and Ultimate Spider-Man at Disney XD.

Finally, we begin to answer question posted at Brian’s Jinxworld message board, which cover big picture topics like how social media has improved the comics fandom -creator relationship.

On this episode of Word Balloon Stuart Immonen checks in and previews his new Marvel event coming this April, FEAR ITSELF written by Matt Fraction. The conversation then explores the various art styles Stuart has experimented with through the years. We discuss his early DC work on The Legion Of Superheroes, his Superman run as an artist and writer, andhis 1996 event The Final Night with Karl Kessel.

We also update the potential of any new NEXTWAVE material coming from him and Warren Ellis, look back at SHOCKROCKETTS and SUPERSTAR from he and Kurt Busiek, and discuss upcoming new projects with his wife Kathryn. 

Re-Posting this episode with Marvel artist Gabe Hardman. The sound is a little muffled in the interview, but I did my best to clean it up.

We talk about Gabe's work on HULK, and his and Jeff Parker's Plan's to broaden the Red Hulk's (General Thunderbolt Ross) rogues gallery. Plus we talk about the wrap-up to ATLAS, and Gabe's work as a storyboard artist in Hollywood.

Did you know Gabe was the brains behind an amazing sequence from a recent Super hero film?

Director Bryan Singer came to Gabe with the vague direction "Superman saves people in a plane" for Superman returns. Gabe and the technical crew came up with arguably the best sequence of the entire film.

Let's start petitioning the Hollywood brass to get Gabe in the director's chair!

We continue our 2 part conversation with Marvel writer Jeff Parker. Jeff discusses his 2010 Oni book with Steve Lieber UNDERGROUND, and how a leaked pdf of the book at 4chan ended up being a positive publicity happening resulting in new readers and sales for the overlooked project.

We also discuss the X-Men First Class Film, and Jeff's minor advisory involvement, more Thunderbolts talk including future guest stars and more on Man-Thing's unique role on the team.

We discuss the old guard of comic creators like Alex Toth, Al Williamson and Burne Hogarth . The Will Eisner documentary . Adventure comic strips like Steve Canyon, Rip Kirby, Prince Valiant, and Flash Gordon from old and current creators Milton Cannif, Hal Foster, Alex Raymond, Mark Schultz and Gary Gianni .

We talk about fantasy books, from The Harry Potter and Percy Jackson books,  to The Hobbitt and disgraced author James Frey's I Am Number Four . Plus loads of old movie talk. From the implausability of Dean Martin making good westerns, (Rio Bravo & Bandollero) to the best John Ford films like The Searchers, The Last Hurrah, and The Man Who Shot Liberty Valance .

In Part One Jeff tallks about The Red Hulk, his new direction for the Thunderbolts, and we look back at the wrap up to The Agents Of Atlas. We discuss the story contributions from Jeff's collaborators Gabe Hardman, Kev Walker and Declan Shalvey.

Plus we debut the Word Balloon Hotline, and start taking your weekly calls about the comic book news, past guests and any questions you have about the show. To make a call for a future episode, call 312-841-7025.

Paul Kupperberg joins us to talk about my favorite book in 2010. Life With Archie, The Married Life. In 2009 Archie Comics finally addressed the possibilites of what would happen if Archie chose Veronica over Bettty and visa versa, but the Michael Uslan mini series was only the beginning.

Archie The Married Life is a straight up soap opera without ever losing the Archie charm and sentiment. Oldtime characters are at the same time true to their Riverdale roots, while facing adult problems that are heavier than who’s going to the dance Saturday night. One of the Archie regulars even passed away in the December issue. But despite the drama  there’s still plenty of humor and satirical nods to modern pop culture that make this a great read month in and out.

We talk about Paul’s succsess taking over the adult Archie storyline, and the publisher’s fearless embrace of the modern comics era. From digital day and date release of brand new monthlies simultaneous with the direct store market at half the paper price, and  the promise of more new titles and experimentation with the Archie brand.

We also look back at some of Paul’s  memorable stories and characters at DC Comics, from killing Aquababy, and Vigilante, to creating Checkmate and Arion, Lord Of Atlantis.  Arion fans may also enjoy Paul’s latest e-books through Buffalo Avenue Books and Smashwords: Two Tales Of Atlantis and the anthology collection In My Shorts plus you'll hear about his stint as editor of the Weekly World News .

This was a 2010 Xmas extra...Music Historian Jeff Marcus joins me to talk about his 2 new books celebratng the lost art of 45 rpm picture sleeves. for decades they were an important part of popular music publicity, and are still widely collected today.

We talk about the whole history of the vinyl 45 records and how they changed the music business.

Some words of wisdom from a number of Word Balloon guests from 2010 episodes. Their thoughts not only focus on some of the biggest stories of 2010, they provide perspective on the year to come.

Featuring Brian Bendis, Greg Rucka, Steve Englehart, Jeph Loeb, Mark Millar, Ed Brubaker Robert Kirkman,  Jimmy Palmiotti, Matt Fraction and many more .