Joseph Mallozzi's Blog, page 514

January 25, 2012: Awww %&^#! Maximus! Dark Matter #2 Preview!

So, about twelve years ago, I had an idea for a horror movie – an idea, in retrospect, well ahead of its time.  Instead of writing the script, I sat on the idea. A couple of years later, a movie came out that was, in its unique direction, very similar.  And so, the idea ended up being shelved.  Years later, I began to give my horror movie a lot of thought. It was, I decided, different enough from what had come before – certainly a lot more different than many of the other horror films out there – so I decided to go out and try to sell it.  I discussed it with Paul and we came up a solid pitch, some wonderfully creepy supporting materials, then headed off to L.A. I wrote about our (appropriately enough) horrifying experience in a previous blog entry (October 28, 2008: My L.A. Update).  Ultimately, we weren't able to make the sale, in large part because of a movie that had opened that weekend which – you guessed it – was similar in certain respects to the script we were pitching.  So back on the shelf went the script.  Years passed.  Then, a few weeks ago, I was having lunch with Ivon and I pitched him the idea.  He loved it.  We discussed and agreed that, while it had similarities to what had come before, it was certainly unique enough. And so, I sat down and started writing it.  Last night, I hit the 47 page mark.  Then, this morning, I received an email from Robert Cooper who informed me of an upcoming movie – with a plot similar to the script I was working.  The script I had over halfway completed!

&%O@!

(@!

@%^%&$&$$#$%&&!!!!!!!!

Don't care.  Read the synopses of the other movie, saw the trailer, and I feel my script is different enough.  Guess we'll find out when that movie opens – and my movie doesn't.  Or maybe they both open and no one remembers the other movie or likens it to Wyatt Earp to my Tombstone.  Whatever.  Come hell or high water (I don't even know that that means) I'm finishing this damn script!

Thank you to everyone who has weighed in with their advice on Maximus.  I appreciate all the input (I wouldn't approve the comment if I didn't).  It goes without saying that this isn't an easy decision.  I'll be gone for twelve days and there's the possibility that he may not be here when I get back.  On the other hand, I can put him to sleep tomorrow and be faced with the certainty that he definitely be here when I return from Japan.  Ultimately, I'm going to have to make the decision sooner or later.  But which is it?  Sooner or later?  It's a choice that offers no second chances.  There are those who say his quality of life is no longer the same and I should put him to sleep.  On the other hand, there are those who say you wouldn't do the same to a human being, so why do it to an animal you care about?  I fall in the middle.  I think the call should be made when it's time – the only question is "When is it time?".  When an animal is diagnosed?  When an animal stops climbing stairs?  When an animal stops eating?  I took Maximus to the vet today and his vet fully supports whatever decision I make. This is what I know: 1. Maximus is not getting any better and is only going to get worse.  2.  He has lost a lot of weight.  3. He stopped eating a week ago, but did eat a little yesterday and a little today.  4. The vet feels the loss of appetite is more likely a result of the meds he is taking than the disease.  5. He's lethargic but, in all fairness, he's always been a lethargic dog.  Again, the vet suggests this is more the effect of the meds than the disease.  6. The meds have eased his pain considerably as he no longer squirms and shifts whenever someone tries to explore his mouth.  7. Maximus trembles in fear whenever we visit the vet – which is the barometer I've always used as an indication he's not quite ready to go gently into that good night.

Still undecided and time is running out.  I've made an appointment to bring Maximus in, for his final vet visit, tomorrow morning.  I have until 9:00 a.m. to decide whether I'll keep it.  I'm going to sleep on it and, hopefully, over the next ten hours, Maximus himself will give me some indication of how things are going to go.

Continuing that preview of Dark Matter #2 (via the gang at  Comic Book Resources)…

January 24, 2012: Writer Bryan Q. Miller answers your questions! Dark Matter #2 preview! Mailbag!

Today, it gives me great pleasure to hand off this blog to Bryan Q. Miller, Executive Story Editor and staff writer on Smallville, and writer of DC's Batgirl.  As most of you know, the first volume of Bryan's run, Batgirl Rising, was our January Book of the Month Club selection.  In support of his book, Bryan has kindly agreed to swing by, answers your questions, and generally get raked over the coals.  To those of you who didn't get a chance to read Batgirl Rising - well, you should pick up a copy.  As I've already said to various interested parties, it delivers a nice mix of action, intrigue, great character moments and humor in a series that, while built on established mythology, serves as a perfect jumping on point for new readers.

Over to Bryan…

GerryL writes: "1. How did you make the jump from writing for television to writing for comics? Do you prefer one over the other?"

BQM: Gerry – a very talented and affable gentleman by the name of Geoff Johns visited the Smallville offices for a week or two as we broke his first freelance episode ("Legion").  I bent his ear over lunch one afternoon, and asked for some advice on how to break into writing for DC Comics. He recommended I meet a few people in person.  Shortly thereafter, during NYCC, I loitered after some panels and introduced myself to Ian Sattler and Dan Didio.  Ian and I had some phone tag for a little while after.  I took a swing and a miss at doing a short for a Superman anthology, but a few months later, Brian Cunningham (then editor of Teen Titans) contacted me, asking if I'd be interested in writing a few issues. I accepted.  No two people get "in the door" in quite the same way – this was mine.

As for which format I prefer, I approach them both with the same level of dedication and focus. Thanks for asking!

"2. Were there any fellow comic book writers that helped you out when you first started? Who were they and how did they help? And what were the biggest challenges you faced?"

BQM: I would refer you Gerry's above question for the former part. As for the latter, I think the biggest challenge was learning that, in comics, there is no set format.  Television writing (generally) has a very standard, very strict set of practical guidelines. Comic book scripts very much do not.

"3. What are you plans for future projects in television and comics?

Thanks to Bryan Q. Miller for answering my questions."

BQM: And thank YOU for asking them! As for future plans, there are a few things in the works that both contract and polite discourse prohibit me from speaking about in any detail whatsoever.  2011 was a quiet year for me so that 2012 can be substantially noisier. Will hopefully be able to share more VERY soon.

G-Man writes: "Hi, Bryan.  Great book.  I'd like to know why the change in Batgirl?  Why was Stephanie chosen to replace Cassie and do you know if there are future plans for Cassandra with Batman's return?"

BQM: G-Man!  Stephanie was already in place when I came aboard the title… so I honestly have no idea why that direction was chosen.  And as for future plans with Cassandra, given DC's New 52 re-launch… again, I have no idea. I am no longer "in the know" in that department.

TTobias writes: "How did you break into the business, both comics and television?  And what was it like working on Smallville?  Did you get to go on set a lot?"

BQM: TTobias – Smallville was wonderful, start to finish.  A lovely and talented group of people who heartily believed in apprenticeship and instruction.  I couldn't have landed in a more welcoming place for my first gig. As for travel to set – production was in Vancouver, and our writing offices were in Los Angeles… so we didn't get up there all that much. 

KellyK writes: "Hello Bryan! Have to say I loved Batgirl Rising and agree with all of Joe's points especially about the humor of your writing. I have to admit to being kind of confused because, when the wheelchair-bound woman who Barbara befriends is first introduced, I thought she was Cassie the former Batgirl! Anyway, loved what I read and I have a few questions if you'd be so kind:

1. How long did the Batgirl series run and why, if you're able to say, did it end? Do you miss writing for Stephanie?"

BQM: Looks like you snuck in a few questions between the question there, KellyK – I'll do what I can to address them all!  Sorry about the confusion on Proxy/Wendy and Cassandra. Was never the intent!

The series ran for 24 issues (technically, 25 if you count the Bruce Wayne: The Road Home event issue… which I count!) As for why it ended, Steph wasn't invited to the New 52 re-launch. I miss writing for her terribly.

"2. Why Batgirl? When you made the move to writing comic books, why start with this character? Was there an opening? Was she a character you wanted to write for?"

BQM: Steph was a character that I was familiar with and had affection for, so when then-editor Mike Siglain gave me a call and asked if I wanted to put together a pitch for a Steph as Batgirl book, I jumped at the chance.

"3. Someone has already asked about future comic book work but I want to know who your dream character or title would be to write for?"

BQM: As for "dream" characters to write for, that's a tough one. There's plenty of books I'd love to take a stab at, on both sides of the Marvel/DC fence… it's hard to say, really.

"4. Were you a comic book fan before writing for Batgirl? If yes, then which titles did you follow and which writers/artists did you enjoy?"

BQM:  At the time I came aboard Batgirl, I was reading pretty much everything DC put out.  My favorite titles at the time (and to this day) were the (then-concluded) weekly 52 series and DC's New Frontier. 

"5. Finally – if you could have one superpower what would it be and why?"

BQM: Flight. You know… cuz the flying.

Star77 writes: "1) What was the writing process like on Batgirl? How much direction were you given by the editors at DC and how free were you to create your own storylines? Were there specific dos and don'ts as you started work on the title?"

BQM: "Star77 – thanks for the questions!  With very few "mandates", I had a fairly free run over my little corner of Gotham for Issues 1-14. If I recall, the only "this has to happen" bit was Steph sharing an issue of her title with Red Robin for Yost's "Collision" event in that title. Once we passed 14, however, more boundaries and guidelines started cropping up that (while constructive) made things a bit less "free-form."  It's the nature of the beast.

"2) How would you describe your overall experience working for DC? How did you find it compared to working for television? What were the pros and cons?"

BQM: With DC as with any show you don't create, you're playing with other people's toys.  It's an honor to get to spend any time in the sandbox.

"3) What advice would you give to aspiring comic book writers looking to break into the business? Would you say its easier to get your foot in the door writing for an established character at a DC or Marvel or an original creator-owned character at somewhere like IDW or Image?"

BQM: Like I said in a question earlier, no two people get through the same door the same way. What would I recommend? Try as many ways as possible, if that's something you truly want to do.  Creator-owned projects can often get tricky, as different publishers have different rules about how money works, with regards to payment and production. Create a great character. Put them in an interesting situation. Find someone to draw it. The more ducks you can have in a row before you start looking for outlets to produce and distribute, the better!

AvidReader writes: "It's been a while since I've read a comic book and I have to admit to being pleasantly surprised by Batgirl Rising. A lot of thought went into the characters and they were all well-drawn and very believable. On the other hand, I thought that some of the story elements were given short shrift and I was left confused at various points where we seem to skip quickly over sections (ie. the whole attempt to drug the college street party) while Stephanie appears to make some big leaps in logic in arriving to her (albeit correct) conclusions. The whole kidnapping plot that concludes this volume, in the same way, felt like it could have used more time and detail in the telling. I wanted to learn more about Barbara and to see the writer explore more of the relationship between Stephanie and her mother, but I suppose that's was volume 2′s are for!"

BQM: All fair points! Regarding "short shrifting", keep in mind the drugging of the college party occurred in the second issue of an ongoing I had written ever (I'm not counting my fill in on Teen Titans in this category).  Not an excuse, mind you, but I was still finding my sea legs. With the kidnapping plot in issues 5-7, my intent was to spend more time on the Steph/Damian relationship as opposed to the nitty-gritty of the procedural. Plus my whole goal with the book was to tell stories in as few issues as possible.

"How did your writing approach for Batgirl (comic book) differ from your writing approach on Smallville (t.v.)?"

BQM: Shockingly similar. Monetary budget concerns (with television) were replaced with "paper" budget concerns. You only had so much room to tell the story the way you want to tell it.

"Was there anything you wanted to do with the character that you weren't allowed to (stories you wanted to write but couldn't)?"

BQM: If you (hopefully) make it through the other 2 trades to issue 24, I think you'll find the answer to that very question! J

"How much and what kind of research did you have to do prior to writing for Batgirl?"

BQM: I was already very familiar with Stephanie Brown heading in, so research wound up being more incidental, rather than necessary.

"What do you think of the New 52 relaunch? What are you reading?"

BQM: I think it's a bold initiative, to be sure.

Darken Rahl writes: "I enjoyed Miller's Batgirl. She reminded me of the Peter Parker with the struggle of balancing school, home life, and being a superhero by night. The person behind the mask was a lot realer for me than the previous ersion. And speaking of the previous version, I hated the old weird mouthless mask and preferred this costume that was a classic throwback to the original.

Bryan, thank you for Batgirl. I miss Stephanie. Any plans to revisit the character in some future book?"

BQM: Thank you, Darken Rahl! And I would love to write Stephanie again (but no one's asked… WAH-WAH!)

"What was it that inspired you to write Batgirl? What did you draw from?"

BQM: I think, more than anything, the writing of Steph as Batgirl was inspired by my very real want for her character to not only be "redeemed" in the eyes of readers, but to get her due and some respect from the DC Universe itself. As for what I "drew from", I just tried to write Steph as a person first, vigilante second. 

"Going to Comic Con this year?"

BQM: Wonder-Con (probably); SDCC (yes); NYCC (project announcement-pending).

Anne writes: "Hi to Bryan Q. Millar and welcome to Joe's blog."

BQM: Thanks for having me, Anne!

"I'd like to know your list of top ten graphic novels/trade paperbacks."

BQM: If you had asked me this six years ago when I was still working in a bookstore and was finishing off a trade from the GN section a week, I'd have had 20 for you. Now? Not sure.  Unfortunately, I don't know that I can narrow it down. New Frontier will always had a place in my heart.

"What's it like being married to the awesome Erika Kennair?  And where's YOUR blog?"

BQM: Since I know she'll read this, I'll say being married to her is… fine. Seriously, it's great. We're very good for each other. And MY blog? Why… it's here: http://bit.ly/wvi74V It's brand new and about nothing of any relevance to anything that I do, professionally… though one can only assume I'll sneak a writing-related post in from time to time.

StarStacey writes: "Hello, Brian. Thanks for taking our questions and great work on Batgirl. I wanted to know what it felt like taking over writing duties on one of DC's most iconic characters. Did the fact that you were a male writer writing for a female character make you in any way nervous? How did you approach writing for Batgirl? What did you take away from the experience?"

BQM: Thank you taking to the time to participate in Joe's book club, StarStacey! Starting a title from issue 1 with a marginally controversial character under the cowl was daunting, to say the least. Being a guy writing for a girl didn't really factor into the process, though – as I've said earlier, I approached Stephanie as a person. Not as a guy, not as a girl. But as a 19 year old college student who just wants to do right by everyone… including herself. What I took away from the experience, more than anything, is being humbled at how amazing the passion that fans have for their characters truly is.

Sparrow_hawk writes: "Hi Bryan! I'm kind of a newbie to the whole comic book scene but I loved Batgirl:Rising. What was your inspiration for bringing out another incarnation of Batgirl?"

BQM: Welcome to the party, Sparrow_hawk! Regarding inspiration for doing another incarnation of Batgirl, Steph had already been decided upon to wear the mantle before I pitched my take and ultimately joined the title. My goal with her was to prove that hope can exist in Gotham.

Continuing our preview of Dark Matter #2 (via  Comic Book Resources):

Mailbag:

Lisa R. writes: "Have a good night, Joe. Hopefully, you can help Cookie Monster recover."

Answer: I sent him a box of snickerdoodles with multi-colored valium bits baked right inside.  I think he'll be fine for Hero at Large.  No promises for Superman II though.

Lewis writes: "Who do you think makes for a better Lex Luthor, Gene Hackman or Kevin Spacey?"

Answer: Cookie Monster has yet to see the Spacey version.  Having said that, after watching Superman: The Movie, he's going with Spacey.

Michelle writes: "An too-convenient plot device that has to be dispensed with asap, sort of like the Asgard beam and the sub-cutaneous transmitters."

Answer: Ah, thank goodness for ionic atmospheric disturbances…

antisocialbutterflie writes: "Milano cookies battered in Oxycodone and deep fried may do the trick."

Answer: Cookie Monster wants the recipe!

for the love of Beckett writes: "Have been scarce on the blog because I'm trying to change my sleep schedule. It's not easy, but totally worth it. Am switching shifts at work, from going in at 6 p.m. to going in 6 a.m. This night owl has to become an early bird, fast!  Any pointers?"

Answer: Have you tried melatonin?  Just picked some up for my Tokyo trip.

DP writes: ""You'll believe a man can fly". Was that their poster?"

Answer: Yep.  Their second choice was "You won't believe we actually made this movie!"

Migzy writes: "Ever thought about setting up a get together of blog regulars in Vancouver? Maybe with some world famous SG stars on the side as a bonus?"

Answer: Had a blog regular get-together a couple of years back.  I may make the effort to come out this year.

Migzy also writes: "Seeing as you keep talking about your home theatre system, any chance you might share some specs as I'm sure I'm not the only geek around here wondering what kind of system the Great Joe Mallozzi has installed…"

Answer: It was cool and new when I first installed it…six years ago.  I'll dig up those specs for you…

Deni writes: "Funny, I've been waking up at night (20 x a night) because of Elway, too! Thank you for your prayers, they are very much appreciated! He's doing better, although he seems to be having a few partial seizures now."

Answer: Hey, Deni, how old did you say he is?

dasndanger writes: "Yes, that is correct. Instead of 'dasNdanger writes:', you referred to me as…JOE."

Answer: Shows how highly I think of you.

dasndanger also writes: "So, by saying you're not a fan of sour, does that mean (as I have long suspected) that you don't like limes, lemons, and things flavored with such?"

Answer: I don't mind limes and lemons for flavor, but don't like the overpowering citric kick of, say, a ceviche.  Yech.

Michael Lutz writes: "Joe, have you seen Star Wars Uncut: Directors cut?"

Answer: Watching it now.  It's great.

Gina writes: "Will you be doing the weird food purchase of the day from Japan this year?"

Answer: I may.  I suppose it'll depend on what I come across.  Once you've mistakenly eaten codsperm, it's all downhill from there.

Gina also writes: "Will we get to meet Akemi's mom?"

Answer: Yep.  She's a regular reader of this blog so I'm sure she's very much looking forward to making an appearance.

Gina also writes: "What about Max while you are gone? I'm sure it is going to be hard to leave him behind."

Answer: I've gone back and forth on Maximus.  Although he drinks water and shows signs of his old self, he is generally lethargic and hasn't eaten in a week.  I'm faced with a tough decision and know that, no matter what I choose, there will be a certain amount of regret.  If I leave him with the dog-sitter and he passes away while I'm in Tokyo, then I won't have been there for him in his time of need.  If, on the other hand, I make the decision to put him to sleep before I leave, I'll forever wonder whether that decision was simply my taking the easy way out.  Like I said, I went back and forth on this, leaning one way, then the other – then, tonight, he ate something.  It wasn't much, a half a golf ball-sized portion of raw dog food, but it was enough to restore some hope.  I'm now leaning toward leaving him at home, hoping he'll be here when I get back so I can put off the decision a little while longer.

Max and penguin

Max and Lulu

Just Bubba

Tagged: Batgirl, Batgirl Rising, Bryan Q. Miller, Smallville

January 23, 2012: The SuperMovie of the Week Club! Cookie Monster Reviews Superman: The Movie (1978)! Our continuing preview of Dark Matter #2!

When time for Monster to sit down and watch Superman movie, he select Speshul Edition because, letz face it, me very speshul.  But monster not realize dat "speshul edition" over two and a half hours long!  When Monster realize, he run back to video store to exchange. But too late.  Already closed.  And it only two p.m.!  Monster suspekt dat when someone stoopid enuf to rent speshul edition of any movie, video store close up shop and get out while da getting is good. Suspishuns confirmed by sounds of staff giggling inside when Monster shout thru door: "If me can't exchange, me have to watch one hundred and fifty-one minutes of dis movie!  Pleaze have mercy on Monster!!!" But no mercy.  No pity.  Only 1978 Superman Speshul Edition.

Last Tango on Krypton

Dey say "Imitashun sincerest form of flattery".  If true, den dis movie's opening credit seekwence blow smoke up Stars Wars ass.  Also muzik VERY flattering too.  Den movie start in a galaxy far away…  Marlon Brando (dis before he train to become sumo)  is scientist on world where everyting pointy and made out of crystal, even livingroom ferniture.    He predikt planet, Kripton, going to blow up.  But FIRST have to set up movie seekwel, so sentence tree criminals to space jail. One man charged wit violenz!  Another man charged wih treazon!  And woman charged wit most heinus crime of all: being man-hater! Criminals sent to flippy-mirror-prison and, with dat out of way, we get back to movie.  And Kripton blow up.  Not sure why other scientists not see it coming.  Dat supernova sun look awful close…

But, good newz!  Marlon Brando charakter (Klorox) send baby away in spiky spaceship (mebbe spikies good protektion against space squid attack) in nick of time.  Spaceship fly for tree years and crashland on Earth where is found by couple.  Dey find abandoned baby and do responsuble ting: keep it for demselves.

Local yokels discover space baby!

Ateteen years later, baby is grown up boy: Clark Kent.  He bullied but have special powerz.  Very strong, very fast, and very stoopid.  So stoopid, in fakt, dat he run superfast right beside train full of people. Lucky for him only person who bother look out window is little girl named…wait for it….Lois! And no one really interested in what she have to say anyway.  Clark go home and have heart to heart talk with dad. Den, he say to dad: "Run!".  Dad tink dis is good idea…but have sekond toughts when keel over ded.  Nice going, Clark.  Smooth move ex (ray vizion) lax!

After funeral, Clark decide he going to go away.  North!  He go and, at first, monster tink he go too far when he hit icebergz.  But Clark pull out crystal and trow it into ice and from crystal grow beautiful crystal Fourdress of Saltitude.  And den Superman appear in costume.  And dis fifty minutes into movie!  Slow build but not bad so far.

Clark Kent = nerdtastic!

Up to dis point, Monster tink movie okay.  Some parts not make sense, some a little silly, but not bad.  Den, we go to Metropolis and wheelz fall off.  It as if people who made first fifty minutes of movie fired and replaced by people embarrassed to be making superhero film.  We introduced to reporter Lois Lane who can't spell "bludletting" or "massakre" and spell "raypist" wit two "p's".   Ho ho ho.  Clark Kent a news reporter, but he suddenly so klutzy and not know how to use revolving door.  Ho ho ho.  Bad guy Lex Luthor suppose to be smart but hire dum henchman (Ned Beatty who me sure now really regret dis role) dat wear pork pie hat and loud tie and get fingerz stepped on.  Ho ho ho!  Suddenly, completely different movie!  WAT DA FUDGEOO?!!!

Nyuk nyuk nyuk!

At Daily Planet, accident happen!  Helicopter wit Lois (who sound like she smoke six packs of cigarette a day) inside hang off building. Stoopid people gather direktly underneath to watch.  Unfortunately, Superman fly in and keep helicopter from falling on dem – and save Lois Lane.  Wooooooooooooo.  Loooooooooove!  Den Superman go off and help other people, help plane land, and get off cheezy one-liner when bad guy hit him wit rubber tire iron – BOIIIIING = "Good vibrashuns?"  Ho ho ho!  At dis point, Monster really regret he agree to do dese reviewz.  Only good part in "rescue montage" come when Superman help little girl get cat down from tree.  After Superman fly away, girl run inside and say: "Man flew down from sky and rescue Frisky!".  Mom: "How many time I tell you not to lie!"  And den – SMACK of mom hitting little girl.  Ho ho ho!

Lois Lame.

Superman show up at Lois Lane apartment for interview, look at her pink underwear, reveal weakness to lead, den fly her around town.

Lex Luthor = stoopidest criminal mastermind ever!

Meanwhile, Lex Luthor figure out dat Superman is allergik to piece of his old planet.  How he figure dis out and why Superman would be allergik never explained but, at dis point, everybody, including movie's producers, want to get it over wit as soon as possible so nobody want to slow tings down by asking questions.  Also at dis point, Cookie self-medikating.  He dip oreos in nyquil to make movie hurt less.

Bad guys in stupid disguise.  Twice.  Get access to nooclear missiles and fiddle wit dem.  Twice!  J.R. Ewing (aka Major Nelson) make cameo.  Luthor lure Superman into bad guy lair and sink him in pool wit kriptonite necklace, den conveniently leave so dat sad woman can free him.  Superman stop one missile but other one blow up. Earthquake!  Monster not recognize Jimmy Olsen witout dorky bow tie but Superman does and save him.  Superman fly under Earth and thru mole men tunnels to stop faultline from collapse.  But too late to save Lois.  She ded.  NOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO!  Well, whaddya gonna do? How about fly so fast around planet dat Earth rotate opposite way? Yeah?  And?  Oh, you not realize dat when Earth rotate opposite way, it turn back time?  So he can save Lois?

Great!  Now whenever Monster watch another Superman movie, he not have to be worried.  All  Superman have to do is spin planet backwardz and undo everyting!  Somebody die?  No problem.  Spin Earth backwardz!  Someting damaged?  Spin Earth backwardz!  Forget to tape Two Broke Girlz?  Spin Earth backwardz!  Whew!  Now monster not have to worry about anyting like drama and suspense ever again when watch Superman seekwels.  Wat a relief!

Final Verdikt:  Last week Batman goofy but smart and fun.  Dis movie goofy stupid want-to-punch-someone stinker.  Monster wish HE could fly around planet and turn back time so he can unsee dis movie.Superman go from okay first fifty minutes to bad to worse to terrible, den keep right on going past stupid painful into braindead vomit-so-hard-Monster-can't-feel-his-eyeballs terminus.

Rating: 4 out of 10 chocolate chippee cookies for first 50 minutes +  -2 out of 10 chocolate chippee cookies for rest of movie = 2 out of 10 chocolate chippee cookies.

Pleaze diskuss.

SuperMovie of Week Klub take break for next two weeks.  Me need time to recover from dis supershitfest.  Also, while Joe in Tokyo, monster have to manage his casino in Macau and mail-order-bride biznesses.

SuperMovie of Week Klub return Monday, Febuary 13 wit Hero at Large…

Hoo boy.  Look not good!

Finally, Joe ask me to continue preview of Dark Matter #2, second issue of SF comik book series dat come out Febuary 8!  First tree pages from gang at CBR ( Comic Book Resources):

Tagged: SuperFilm of the Week, SuperMovie of the Week

January 22, 2012: Taco-Off! Continuing our preview of Dark Matter #2!

Today, we gathered at my place (the only home in our circle of friends with a functional theater room since Rob's gave up the ghost last weekend) for a final weekend of football prior to my departure for Tokyo.  Fortunately, the Patriot's win (or, more appropriately, the Ravens' loss) ensured I won't have to go through the trouble of trying to track down somewhere to watch the Superbowl while I'm in Japan.  I'll just read about the Giants victory instead.

While both games were exciting, the biggest match-up of the afternoon pitted Ivon's Beef and Chorizo vs. Lawren's Pulled Pork in our first annual Taco-Off.  Rob served up some delicious corn tamales (I can eat them for dinner AND dessert) while Patrick demonstrated his domestic flair by making his own peppermint patties.  As for me – I just picked up some pastries.

Lulu awaits her boyfriend's (aka Ivon's) arrival.

Lawren shows off his goods.

His goods = slow-cooked pulled pork with a little secret Kansas City rub imported from Seattle where, apparently, the best Kansas City rub is sourced.

Hey, check out Alfie! With a knife!

Rob comes bearing gifts.

The gifts = corn tamales!

Ivon finally arrives.

And he brought slow-cooked marinated beef and chorizo with paprika, chili, olive oil, white vinegar, lime juice and love!

Patrick surprises everyone with home made peppermint patties. HOME MADE!

Tasty decisions...Tasty decisions...

Ivon's tacos on display.

Chocolate and vanilla-filled zeppole.

Chocolate, pistachio, and gianduja macarons.

And the winner?  Well, I'm going to have to call it a tie.  Really, they were both great and neither deserve to lose.  Also, declaring it a tie opens the door for a rematch when I get back from Tokyo.

Another sneak preview of the second issue of my comic book series, Dark Matter.  Below, you'll find the first two pages of issue #2.  Call up your local comic store and reserve your copy to find out how it all turns out!

Cookie Monster would like to remind everyone to finish up viewing Superman (1979) for this blog's SuperMovie of the Week Club!  Discussion begins tomorrow!

Maybe.

January 21, 2012: I can be counted upon in MOST situations… Dark Matter #2 preview! Identify my mystery guest!

I can be counted upon in most situations.  If you need a letter of reference or require a lift or even, in some circumstances, someone to back you up in a fight.  I cannot, however, be counted upon to lend anyone any sort of shopping support.  I hate lingering whether it be over a post-meal coffee at a fine restaurant, as a party is winding down or, say, in the oral care aisle of my local drugstore debating over the perfect toothpaste.  In all of the aforementioned situations, I am NOT your man.  Nor am I your man if you want someone to weigh in on the merits of shampoos, soaps, and skin care products.  And if you need someone to help you choose a new pair of shoes…well I am DEFINITELY not your guy!

The reason for this – and I'll happily admit it – is because I am incredibly impatient.  When I go shopping, it's usually because I need something.  I go in knowing exactly what I'm going to buy and waste little time in buying it.  Sure, I'll try on the shirt or read the book jacket or even spray the aftershave on one of those little strips of paper you wave around and sniff and pretend it smells all that different from the other aftershaves, but you won't catch me vacillating over a purchase and then leaving and going to check the same product at some other place and vacillating over there and then, on the home, loudly lamenting my indecision and vowing to go back the next day to pick it up after all only to return the next day and discover it's been sold out.  Or – even worse! – change my mind and decide not to buy it after all.

Knowing this, if you still insist on my accompanying you shopping, then stand forewarned that when I get bored, I get very embarrassing.  For instance, if we're at the Sephora and a salesperson approaches to ask "Do you have any questions?", there's a good possibility I may respond: "Yeah!"  Holding a bottle of facial cleanser aloft.  "Why does this have such a weird aftertaste?", or at the women's section of any major retailer: "Sure.  Does this sundress come in a men's medium?".  Just roll with it.  Don't get upset because next to visiting The Home Depot (which elicits a response from me akin to what a vampire would undoubtedly experience walking into a church), there's nothing I dislike more than accompanying someone on a shopping trip.

Okie-doke.  With that out of the way, let's move on to the second issue of my comic book series, Dark Matter.  "But wait!"you're no doubt saying.  "I just picked up and read (and, by the way, thoroughly enjoyed) Dark Matter #1.  Dark Matter #2 isn't due to hit the shelves until February 8th!"  True but, if you're curious, I can give you a sneak peek at what lies ahead.  The fine folk at Comic Book Resources (Comic Book Resources – Daily Comic Book News, Previews …) have posted the first six glorious pages of the next issue so I thought I'd give you a page a day leading up to my Tokyo departure next week.

Those of you asking if and when Dark Matter will be coming to your neighborhood…in the words of Scooby Doo: "Rye ron't row."  I DO know, however, that you can order yourself a copy (or two) here:TFAW.com, or get yourself a digital version of the comic book here: digital.darkhorse.com.

Oh, yeah.  That preview…

Finally: Sparrow_hawk – Yes, meeting up several of my foodie buddies while in Tokyo (Moro, Tomomi, Keiko) while Akemi visits with her mom; pmagent2013 – I'm cautiously optimistic on Dark Matter's chances of being a television series but am still a long way from considering any casting choices; Birdy – welcome back and, yes, would love to visit Germany.  After all, if I'm ever in Berlin, I can look forward to spending time with this colorful character:

Identify my mystery guest!

 

January 20, 2012: Dark Matter goodies! Mailbag!

"They're not my taste.  The eyes are too small and don't contain very much gelatin." – Akemi on why brill fish eyeballs are inferior to snapper eyeballs.

A productive writing day!  I hit the 38 page mark of my creepy horror script.  I'm figuring the first draft should come in at a little over 90 pages so I'm aiming to have it 2/3 completed before I head for Tokyo later next week.  I'll finish it up when I get back, get notes from Paul and Ivon, have a revised draft out before the end of March which will be perfect timing for Ivon to start thinking about that two minute trailer for the film-to-be.  I promise to upload it here as soon as it's done after which we'll no doubt be making the rounds in L.A.  And then, it'll be smooooooooooooth sailing!

So, some of you have weighed in with some comments and questions on the first issue of Dark Matter, our exciting new SF comic book series. I've answered in today's mailbag and invite anyone other readers out there to post their thoughts on Dark Matter #1.  Pictured above, the Garry Brown/Ryan Hill cover to Dark Matter's second issue that comes out February 8th (coincidentally, on the day I'm scheduled to fly back from Tokyo).  So, what's in store for our intrepid crew (and you, dear readers)?  Well, I'm glad you asked…

"On the run, with no memory of who they are or where they are going, and being pursued by an unknown enemy, the crew unearths a clue buried deep within the ship's database. Their search for answers leads them to a remote world, an alien threat, and, ultimately, the startling truth about their past!"

I know, I know.  After so many questions in issue #1, finally some answers!

Oh, and some sneak peeks at what lies in store:

And, oh yeah – at some point, I'd like to have artist Garry Brown swing by this blog to field some of your questions.  That's whenever, of course, his busy schedule allows.  Garry's done some great work on the series, I'm sure you'll agree, and I wanted to give you all a peek at the evolution of some of his work – specifically, the transformation of his fantastic inks to awesome colors once colorist Ryan Hill has worked his magic, then taken to the next level with addition of letters by Richard Starkings and Comicraft.

Pretty cool, no?

Hey!  DarkHorse is holding a twitter contest!  Head on over for a chance to win a digital copy of Dark Matter #1: http://www.darkhorse.com/Press-Releases/1855/Dark-Horse-Twitter-Contest-Round-76-1-20-2012.  Thanks to Sylvia for tipping me off!

Mailbag:

Major D. Davis writes: "Also, cool piece of news. I just got accepted into the University of Southern California Cinematic Arts Summer Program…."

Answer: Welcome back to the blog and congratulations, Adam!  One day, I'll be able to say: "I knew him when…"  Good luck in California.   Keep us posted on your progress.

JeffW writes: "Have you ever tried or wanted to make your own pizza?"

Answer: Yes and the results were just short of disastrous.  My pizza was so piled high with toppings that the dough didn't fully cook through.  Nevertheless, I did manage to scorch the hell out of the pizza stone.  Thanks for the recipe though!

Cherluvya writes: "Actually…it is really my six children and nine grandchildren that make my world go round."

Answer: Wow!  What an accomplishment.  I'm still waiting for my kids to make me a grandfather but Lulu is more interested in playing catch while Bubba is more interested in, well, humping Maximus.

Line Noise writes: "Technically something I'll be doing in the future but it's still pretty awesome: I'm going to the recording of an episode of Red Dwarf next Friday."

Answer: Wait.  They're producing new episodes?

Joe writes: "Joe, don't you like olives?"

Answer: Depends on the olives.  I like those mild butter olives.  Not a fan of sour at all.

Peeter writes: " I will be visting your fair city next week for meetings at work. My hotel is in Gastown. Any good restaurants in the area?"

Answer: Yep. Cobre Restaurant – Cobre | Latin fusion | latin restaurant and tequila …, Boneta – Loves You, L'Abattoir : Gastown : Vancouver

Dave Clark writes: "I enjoyed Dark Matter, but I thought the incident with the security robot wrapped up a little too quickly. It would have been nice to have a running game of cat-and-mouse with him which lasted a while, but hey, it's only four issues so I guess time isn't a luxury. I hope this can be made into a series, it looks good so far."

Answer: Thanks, Dave.  Yes, the 22 page narrative structure can be a little constrictive at times – but, on the bright side, allows for some very tightly-paced storytelling.  I elected to limit the security robot encounter to the hangar so I could concentrate more on introducing the characters and the various shipboard mysteries.  Next issue (#2 hits the stands February 8th!) kicks off with a ship to ship pursuit and ends with a shocking revelation that sends the series off in a new direction.  I look forward to reading your thoughts when I get back to from Tokyo.

JimFromJersey writes: "I may go wheeling in the Pine Barrens tomorrow with my Jeep club! "

Answer: Have fun!  And good luck!  Don't end up like Paulie Walnuts and Christopher in the Pine Barrens episode of The Sopranos.

Lori writes: "I'm sure you've tried everything at this point to entice Maximus's appetite, but just in case you haven't tried warm honey water, I found that very effective with one of our dogs who wasn't responding to antibiotics after a tooth infection."

Answer: Thanks for the tip.  Tried it today and, while he didn't seem to like it, he didn't spit up quite as much.

SiSi writes: "Joe, I mentioned you and your blog in my own blog today. I wrote about SF/F books I liked in 2011…"

Answer: I have to get around to reading Robopocalypse.

Tam Dixon writes: "Your new comic seems to be in short supply? Is that a good thing from your perspective?"

Answer: Hard to say.  It could be selling well – or it could simply be a case of comic stores not ordering many copies.  Hmmmm.

TeesterX writes: "American Horror Story is great, but extremely disturbing, though in an entertaining way. It gets crazier with each episode!"

Answer: I just got to the mutant-brother-in-the-attic episode.  I have to ask if there's a horror movie convention they don't use?

Michelle writes: "Hey Joe, looks your old job on Transporter is open again. Serious Help Wanted! What advice would you give to potential job seekers?  http://www.hollywoodreporter.com/news/cinemaxs-cursed-transporter-series-shoot-283533"

Answer: Hunh.  Clearly, I'm not the guy to ask.

Bilo&Bella writes: "Got married while in Maui to a wonderful man."

Answer: Congratulations.  Did you bring me back something?  Some chocolate-covered macadamia nuts?

dasndanger writes: "Read #1 and loved it! Kudos to you and Paul! Only problem is that I wish it was longer…wish the bit with the android guy (whitey…heh  ) took up the entire book. And samurai boy…oh, my…what a pretty fella! Yeah, I like that one a lot."

Answer: Well, as issue #1 would suggest, Whitey will be sticking around for the time being – especially since he's the one who seemingly knows most of the ins and outs of operating the ship.  As for samurai boy – congrats on recognizing the fact that he IS a boy.  A couple of reviewers assumed he was a she.  Granted, he is pretty, but that will be clarified in issue #2.  Along with the deal on that weird kid!  P.S. I had a feeling you'd like the guy with the swords (aka FOUR).

dasndanger also writes: "And now I have a lot of questions. I'll ask just one – why only 4 issues? Was that what Dark Horse wanted, or was that your call? I'm asking because already I can see how this could easily have covered 6 issues. Of course, maybe I'm just being greedy. It's been a long time since I've read a good sci fi anything, and I'm already sad that there's only 3 issues left."

Answer: The limited four-issue run was Dark Horse's call.  The point, after all, was to use this opening arc as a springboard to a television series.  Having said that, I'd be more than happy to continue the series in comic book form.

 

Tagged: Dark Matter

January 19, 2012: Pizzeria Barbarella! And such!

Last night, I had dinner at Pizzeria Barbarella, a new restaurant down on East Broadway owned by a friend (of a friend).  The place hasn't been open long and still has a few bugs to work out – chiefly, on this night, a lack of dessert.  And heat.  To be honest, I missed the dessert more than the heat.  According to my friend Jodi, the owner is very particular about his pizza dough and the ingredients used in his toppings.  His pizza is apparently a cross between Naples and New York style.  We sampled four varieties:

Simple is best no? The Margherita: tomato, fior di latte, aged mozzarella, basil, parmigiano reggiano and extra virgin olive oil. The best of the bunch. Bursting with basil flavor.

Something a little different. The Bianco Rosa: red onions, rosemary, pistachios, parmigiano reggiano and extra virgin olive oil. A close second. The pistachios give it a nice crunch.

The Salsiccia: tomato, fior di latte, aged mozzarella, fennel sausage, house pickled peppers, basil, parmigiano reggiano and extra virgin olive oil. Possessed of a nice, spicy kick but a little heavy on the parmigiano reggiano for my taste.

Diavola: tomato, fior di latte, aged mozzarella, spicy salami, kalamata olives, parmigiano reggiano and extra virgin olive oil. Surprisingly not as spicy as the Salsiccia. I preferred it over the former although I found it a tad salty and wasn't a huge fan of the olives.

Very good pizza.  Hopefully by the time we revisit, they'll have sorted out the lack of heat and dessert.  And, oh yeah, tea.  It wasn't listed on the menu and maybe they don't plan to feature it in the future, but it certainly wouldn't have been nice on this night.

Damn.  Didn't get any work done on the horror script today.  I remain at the top of page 30.  While NOT writing today, I did manage to: a) start playing catch-up with American Horror Story (six episodes down, six to go), b) picked up some trade paperbacks at my local comic store including Chris Roberson's I, Zombie and the latest (and presumably last) installment of Gail Simone's wonderful Secret Six – "The Darkest House", c) resumed my on-again-off-again-still-off-again workout regimen in preparation for my Tokyo trip, d) had a sit-down with my accountant, e) fielded a talk-down call from a friend, f) purchased ingredients for tonight's dinner and prepared same, g) started a new book: Stephen King's Nightmares & Dreamscapes, h) spent some quality time with the dogs, especially Maximus who hasn't eaten anything for over a week but today consumed an entire slice of bread!

Les chiens. Lulu (foreground) and Jelly (background).

My boy Maximus is quiet contemplation.

Akemi, all excited about her high ponytail.

So, what are the top three most exciting things you've all done of late?

January 18, 2012: What? Are you screening this blog now? Only skimming the title to see if I'll be writing about anything interesting? Just read the damn entry!

I had to convince Akemi that the lyrics to that H&M commercial campaign weren't "You're so thin!" but "Girls on film!".  I informed it's a cover version of a 1980′s hit by a group called Duran Duran.  My explanation seemed plausible but, upon closer scrutiny, came up short. After all, given the product and the models leaping about onscreen, "You're so thin!" makes much more sense.

Today, I approved the (dialogue and SFX) placements for Dark Matter's third issue.  Like some of you, a few of my friends have been unable to locate copies of Dark Matter #1.  Apparently, Vancouver comic shops have collectively sold out of all five copies they ordered.

Friend #1 at the beginning of his journey to source and purchase Dark Matter's first issue.

Friend #2 at the end of same journey. No dice!

While you're waiting for your local comic shop to restock their order, why not head on over to SciFiTalk to catch excerpts from my podcast chat with Tony Tellado:

http://scifitalkpodcast.wordpress.com/2012/01/13/time-capsule-episode-42/

Hey!  I hit the 30 page mark on my horror film script.  I texted Ivon today to report my progress and inform him that, if it ever gets made, this movie will be the most disturbing horror film ever!

A gentle reminder (soon to be followed by a stern warning which, in turn, will be followed by a blistering harangue) to get your questions in for Batgirl Rising (and Smallville) writer Bryan Q. Miller!

Dog pics of the day…

They have four giant dog beds yet always seem to prefer the cozier sleeping arrangements.

Aaaah! Jelly stretches out.

So yesterday I received a stern reprimand from my mother for phoning her between 7:00 and 8:00 p.m. on weekdays because it interrupts her daily viewing of Murder She Wrote.  At least I think it's 7:00 and 8:00 p.m.  Could be between 6:00 and 7:00 or 8:00 and 9:00.  Not sure. Just in case, I think I'll wait until after 9:00 p.m. EST before ringing her up.  Wait.  Anybody know what airs between 9:00 and 10:00 p.m.? Dancing with the Stars?  American Idol?  Reruns of the Old Andy Griffith Show?

Off to check out a friend of friend's pizzeria tonight.  Will, of course, report back tomorrow.  With pics!

January 17, 2012: The Supermovie of the Week Club! Guest Blogger Cookie Monster reviews the 1966 Batman!

Many not know dis but Monster on short list to replace Simon Cowl on Amerikan Idol.  Deal almost closed (with jenerous chocolate chippee dressing room rider) when show hire Cookie's bitter enemy = Jennifer Lopez!  Me and JLo be feuding since Monster walk off set of Gigli (me fired after complain JLo too rough during sex scenes – ie. fur tugging) and force produktion to hire Ben Afflek.  Notice how dat turn out? Anyhoo, Monster and JLo definitely not work together again so Cookie walk away from lookrative contrakt.  But, on bright side, have free time to pursue other interesting projekts like role of Cop #3 in Prime Suspekt and clean out basement.  Point me want to make is dat Monster very good judge of others.  So when Joe ask me to do reviews for  SuperMovie of Week Club, me say yes because me love the projekt, free time open up in Monster busy skedule, and me great at critiking (ask anybody on Sesame Street).

But after last week, Monster not so sure me want to continue.  "Super" movie of week not so "super".  More "supershit" dan "superfantastik". But Monster not a quitter.  You all depending on Cookie to tell you what to tink of movie.  And, anyway, sign contrakt so not want to be sued by JosephMallozzi Inc. Ltd.

So, Monster sit down and watch dis week's pick: Batman!  Movie shot in gloryus Teknikolor and have not one, not two, not tree, but FOUR villains.  Dis Batman BC version (Before Codpiece) very charming. Adam West best Batman ever and Burt Ward (who play Robin AND Bruce Wayne yoothful ward – Ward play ward.  Coincidents?  Me not tink so either) pretty darn good Robin.  Helpful narrashun very good for set tone – and help stupid audience members.  Why movies not do it more?  Monster can tink of severul films would have been so much better (Memento, Godfather III, and De Artist).

We introduced to Bruce Wayne and yoothful ward Dick Grayson but – surprize! – dey be really Batman and Robin after pole slide to Batcave! "Atomik battery to power!  Turbines to speed!"  Batmobile off to de races!  Monster like attenshun to scientifik detail like dat.  Notice in later Batman movies no mention of either atomik battery OR turbines? How new Batmobile go?  Power of wishful tinking?

Batman and Robin take Batcopter out to sea and, while Batman climbing down Batladder, he attacked by Bateating shark.  Leads to thrilling man vs. shark battle where even best Batpunches (take dat stoopid shark!) have no affect.  But Batsharkrepellent does – and in nick of time too because turn out shark not your average every day shark.  But exploding shark! Den turn out not even your average exploding shark…but trap exploding shark!  Dis movie  layers upon layers upon layers!

Turn out bad guys (Joker, Penguin, Riddler, and sexy Catwoman) have kidnap Admiral with sekret invention.  What sekret invention?  Wait for it….wait for it…Bruce Wayne lounge around wearing ascot….wait for it…Robin very good at riddles…wait for it…Bruce Wayne go on romantik date, drink milk out of cognac glass, kidnapped then saved…wait for it…Best bomb-getting-rid-of-sequence ever!…wait for it…Dehydrashun machine!  Bad guys use to dehydrate seamen, den put dehydrated seamen into Batcave, but dehydrated seamen unstable and end up transported to other realm (Monster tink bedsheets of nearest Motel 6). Den bad guys dehydrate members of United World security council. Gather up dehydrated bits of multicolor powder and go back to sub for partaay!

But Batman and Robin crash party!  Fight on deck!  Everybody overboard!  Stand-ins swim-ins look nothing like actors.  Batman and Robin get back onboard and discover – HOLY HEARTBREAK! – Miss Kitka really Catwoman!!!

Miss Kitka!  Russian reporter Miss Kitka!  From Moscow Bugle!

Bruce Wayne almost fall in love wit her!  Remember?  No?  I forgot to mention?  Okay.  So earlier in movie, Bruce Wayne interviewed by Russian reporter working for Moscow Bugle and fall in love but turn out she really Catwoman.

Oopsy.  Maybe need spoiler space.

S

P

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S

P

A

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Miss Kitka really Catwoman!

Multicolored vials holding dehydrated Security Council break!  Batman and Robin have to vacuum up all de little bits (and probably some submarine dust) and put in special machine to separate.  Everyone around de world interested in how it going to turn out.  Commissioner Gordon even get call from George W!  Security Council rehydrated. Sort of!  Monster not going to spoil ending but lets just say Security Council members switch personalities.

Monster like dis movie a lot.  Like any great film, leave a lot of questions unanswered.  Questions like: How Bruce and Dick change into Batman and Robin by sliding down poles?  Why bad guys have to pretend to Admiral Shippledipper dat he at sea?  Do penguin quack? Beside fact dat movie make hardly any sense at all, me like it!

Final Verdikt: Movie have it all – action, romance, suspense and exploding shark!  Oh and also one exploding seamen!

Rating: 8 out of 10 chocolate chippee cookies

Pleaze diskuss.

Next Tuesday, me back to review and diskuss 1978 Superman:

Already me don't believe.  Monster have bad attitood.

January 16, 2012: Batgirl Rising!

By day, she's a student, struggling to settle into college life at Gotham U.  By night, she's a costumed heroine, fighting crime, battling supervillains, and carrying on the name of Batgirl.  But there are those who aren't exactly pleased with Stephanie Brown's decision to don the cape and cowl.  The former Batgirl, Barbara Gordon, has her reservations.  The new Batman feels she's in way over her head.  The new Robin thinks she's downright inept.  Hell, even Stephanie herself has doubts about her decision – but despite those doubts (and the initial disapproval of her peers), she perseveres and, ultimately, proves herself a more than capable caped crusader.

Batgirl Rising serves as a great jumping-on point for first-time readers or readers, like myself, who have been out of the comic loop for a while. Writer Bryan Q. Miller does a very nice job of introducing our if-not-new-then-certainly-refurbished heroine in an opening arc that establishes her double life, paralleling Stephanie's new role as Batgirl with her equally new – and no less daunting – role of college student (Sure, Livewire and the Scarecrow were intimidating but they've clearly got nothing on Philosophy 480!).  She attempts to strike a balance between them, but her two worlds collide when a dangerous new drug called "thrill" makes its way onto campus and, later, when a fellow student is kidnapped.

Miller and artists Lee Garbett and Trevor Scott deliver a book that is not only engaging and exciting, but a damn fun read as well.  I tend to gravitate toward to the more grounded exploration of our hero's (or heroine's) alter-ego and the writer does not disappoint here, crafting an interesting, layered character you end up caring about, and rooting for, by volume's end.  The six issue collection is peppered with great moments in this respect, dramatic encounters that focus less on fisticuffs and explosions yet prove just as equally charged.  I loved Barbara Gordon's breakfast ambush of Stephanie in her own home and the ensuing fireworks, Stephanie's visit to the batcave, and all of her scenes with the brattish Damien (aka Robin).  Speaking of the latter, my favorite panel comes off Francisco's "I'll text you later…after you shake the little Omen fanboy giving you the stink-eye." where we then go to – top of P.115 – the aptly named Damien looking hilariously Omen-esque as he loiters beneath an ominous-looking tree.

Which brings me to the one element of storytelling that I think is crucial to a great narrative: humor.  I'm not saying a series has to be comical, but certainly even the subtlest humor goes such a long way toward humanizing characters, contrasting those darker elements and, most importantly, winning over readers/viewers.  While shows like The Sopranos, The Shield, and Breaking Bad may deal with very dark subject matter, they are also possessed of a wonderful sense of humor that adds so much to their respective success.  Batgirl Rising, I'm pleased to report, has a wonderful sense of humor.  It's never of the silly variety, detracting from the more serious moments, but always serves to add flavor and depth to the characters and situations. Stephanie's moments with Damien, in particular, stand out.

I did have one nitpick and it has to do with the former Batgirl, Cassandra Cain, and her passing of the cowl.  This is covered in almost perfunctory fashion (a two-page flashback) after which the character of Cassie is never mentioned again.  From what I understand, Cassie and Stephanie were friends, so I found her disappearance all the more baffling given that their continuing friendship could have provided even more insight into Stephanie's decision to assume (and stick with) the Batgirl identity. I'm sure an argument could be made that the Cassie-Stephanie relationship would have simply echoed the Barbara-Stephanie relationship but, at the end of the day, it still feels like an opportunity missed.

That quibble aside, I very much enjoyed Batgirl Rising and already have the next volume sitting on my to-read pile.

So, what did everyone else think?  Post your thoughts – and questions for writer Bryan Q. Miller!

And a reminder that today is your last day to post comments for former Stargate scribe, present Exec. Producer of The L.A. Complex, Martin Gero!

Speaking of Stargate, guess who I ran into in the fresh produce aisle of my local Safeway this afternoon?

Obviously incognito!

Yep, it's Dan Shea, SG-1′s stunt coordinator.  Between conventions, Dan has been working on the locally-produced Psych!

Tagged: Batgirl, Batgirl Rising, Bryan Q. Miller