[Updated] DC COMICS' JUNE 2007 SOLICITATIONS

[MattBrady]

<a href="http://www.newsarama.com/dcnew/June07/solicitations.html"><img src="http://www.newsarama.com/dcnew/June07/CTDW_Cv47_solicit_s.jpg" border="0" align=right></a><b>COUNTDOWN #47-44</b>
Story by Paul Dini
47 written by Sean McKeever; art by Al Barrionuevo
46 written by Jimmy Palmiotti& Justin Gray; art by Jesus Saiz
45 written by Tony Bedard; art by Jim Calafiore
44 written by Adam Beechen; art by Carlos Magno
Breakdowns by Keith Giffen
Covers by Ed Benes
This year-long weekly series featuring a cast of hundreds kicks into high gear in its second month, under the watchful eye of head writer Paul Dini! See Mary Marvel undergo a surprising transformation! Learn why Donna Troy and Jason Todd are integral players in a cosmic chess game! And see Jimmy Olsen as you’ve never seen him before!

The COUNTDOWN is on…so begins the end!
COUNTDOWN 47 on sale June 6
COUNTDOWN 46 on sale June 13
COUNTDOWN 45 on sale June 20
COUNTDOWN 44 on sale June 27
32 pg, FC, $2.99 US

Click <a href=http://www.newsarama.com/dcnew/June07/solicitations.html>here</a> for the full solicitations...

[Uchiha_Prodigy]

Supergirl and Wondergirl look identical on the cover. So Im guessing its a given that Mary Marvel becomes the new Eclipso?

[James Asia]

Where the F is Andy Kubert?

[dmarvp]

Who would have tought ? Mary Marvel looks HOT :)

[bebopeva88]

J.H. Williams III & Grant Morrison on Batman? Hell yes. I love Kubert, and I was looking forward to J.H. coming back to Detective, but J.H. and Morrison is one of those exceptional pairings.

[Thalya]

Mary Marvel switches to the Black Marvel family? The lightning bolt is backwards on her costume too..

[Theatre_Sniper]

cool a black mary, i guess is what we will be calling her, if she switched familys.

[BubbaKanoosh]

Where the F is Andy Kubert?

I dunno, I prefer Benes anyways..

[James Asia]

I meant on Batman, champ. You know, the book he's the regular artist on.

[Astro]

I dunno, I prefer Benes anyways..

He's referring to Batman, not to the countdown covers.

Thats always been planned that one artist would do a month's worth of covers. Kubert did the first month, Benes does the next, etc.

[Statham]

Gah, wonderful. I would've preferred seeing Williams back on Detective Comics, to be honest, it would actually fulfill those big banners we got in my local store over a year ago, citing the creative team of Dini and Williams III. But, nevermind. Detective's enjoyable enough without him, and I found Kubert's work to be kind of sub-par on Batman.

Actually, the above rant means nothing, I want Williams back on Desolation Jones.

[Astro]

I meant on Batman, champ. You know, the book he's the regular artist on.


SURE he is.

[Lex]

Looks like a good month for DC.

All-Star Superman looks to continue it's awesomeness. And that cover is amazingly cool.

I love the Morrison is bringing back the Batmen of Many Nations. That should be a fun story.

And Countdown continues to worry me with their plans for Mary Marvel. I hope they remember that she's still a kid.

[fast eddie]

That is one sweet cover on All Star Superman. Damn I love that book! :D

[Kolimar]

http://www.newsarama.com/dcnew/June07/CTDW_Cv47_solicit.jpg

:eek: *saliva dripping* :D

[dethmtlmetro]

I like the looks of Green Lantern Sinestro Corps, Batman, Detective, Allstar Superman, and the Mary Marvel issue of countdown. I've already decided I'm bowing out of that series, but I'll pick up a few issues.
I think I'll be dropping Teen Titans, though.

[Kolimar]

BATMAN #667
Written by Grant Morrison
Art and cover by J.H. Williams III
The Batmen of All Nations reunite for a weekend of fine food and nostalgia, but an unexpected visitor has other plans for the gathering. Batman, Robin, and the rest of the Club of Heroes find themselves trapped and at the mercy of a dangerous madman on the Island of Mister Mayhew!
On sale June 27 • 32 pg, FC, $2.99 US

Ah, nostalgia... :D

The Batmen of Many Nations/of All Nations/of the World (http://forum.newsarama.com/showthread.php?t=92865) :p :D ;)

[thundercat58]

Green Arrow is ending??

[Kebab Gud]

Mary is looking FINE!
and ohh yeh .. last issue of Green Arrow...

[The 'Nam]

Batman and All Star Superman are the only DCU books I read (outside of Spirit), and they both look amazing. Still, I would like to see a firm confirmation of when All Star Superman #7 comes out before I pre-order the next one...oh well.

That Batman sounds awesome. Grant Morrison is one of the few writers who did his best work on his early creator-owned stuff, who made the switch to superheroes and maintained his own unique vision and voice. Unlike some other popular 'sell-outs' I know of.

[Nights]

I am less and less intrested in Morrison and Batman with every issue. I just never been in to the silver age Batman stuff. Dini on the other has me looking forward to Detective Comics.

Mary Marvel grow up in all the right placces I see..it is a simple but beatiful cover..

[Speedball93]

Please tell me that they are not going to slut up Mary Marvel like they did with Supergirl!! I love Benes's art, but what they hell is going on? Isn't she like 13 or 14 years old??

[Comic-Reader]

Green Arrow is ending??

Yes, but there is going to be a "Green Arrow/Black Canary" title later in the year to replace it.

[Lord Ruthven]

http://www.newsarama.com/dcnew/June07/CTDW_Cv47_solicit.jpg

:eek: *saliva dripping* :D

You're not the only one!

After my initial reaction, I thought "Kara seduces Mary Marvel?!?" I mean, Mary has seemingly borrowed her skirt after all ;)

[Comic-Reader]

Please tell me that they are not going to slut up Mary Marvel like they did with Supergirl!! I love Benes's art, but what they hell is going on? Isn't she like 13 or 14 years old??

I'd put her in her late teens by now given that the Shazam reboot took place in the early 90s and we just advanced one year later. I'd say 17 or 18 (although if I remember correctly, the Mary Marvel persona is a full-grown woman since the Ordway reboot.)

Also, this is just a journey for her. We don't know how she'll end up when all is said and done. It does seem that she will be taken control of by Black Adam (maybe through the use of Eclipso) for the duration, though.

[Binker]

Remember the pin: SEDUCTION OF THE INNOCENT.

Also, on the Batmen of All Nations: since Morrison is putting SIlver Age ideas in Batman like in All Star Superman, would you consider Morrison's run on Batman as the true All Star Batman?

[foxhound09]

Where the F is Andy Kubert?with jh williams stepping in, who really cares..

[Lord Ruthven]

Who would have tought ? Mary Marvel looks HOT :)

Absolutely agree!

She also looked HOT here too (In my opinion) :D
http://www.brokenfrontier.com/img/2005/mar/DC/JLAClassifiedCv8.jpg

[Lord Ruthven]

Remember the pin: SEDUCTION OF THE INNOCENT.

Also, on the Batmen of All Nations: since Morrison is putting SIlver Age ideas in Batman like in All Star Superman, would you consider Morrison's run on Batman as the true All Star Batman?

I would definitely consider it so. I've really enjoyed Morrison's run on Batman thus far and it doesn't look like he will disappoint me anytime soon.

[Kevin T. Brown]

BATMAN #667
Written by Grant Morrison
Art and cover by J.H. Williams III
The Batmen of All Nations reunite for a weekend of fine food and nostalgia, but an unexpected visitor has other plans for the gathering. Batman, Robin, and the rest of the Club of Heroes find themselves trapped and at the mercy of a dangerous madman on the Island of Mister Mayhew!


:rolleyes:

1955 redux.

Ugh.

[Kevin T. Brown]

Remember the pin: SEDUCTION OF THE INNOCENT.

Also, on the Batmen of All Nations: since Morrison is putting SIlver Age ideas in Batman like in All Star Superman, would you consider Morrison's run on Batman as the true All Star Batman?
Actually, NOT the Silver Age.... End of the Golden Age to be exact.

[caats19]

that batman stuff sounds really good imo. i like that old school batman. AND IT'S NOT THAT I'M OLD OR SOMETHING.

[Deadshot77]

I'd put her in her late teens by now given that the Shazam reboot took place in the early 90s and we just advanced one year later. I'd say 17 or 18 (although if I remember correctly, the Mary Marvel persona is a full-grown woman since the Ordway reboot.)

Also, this is just a journey for her. We don't know how she'll end up when all is said and done. It does seem that she will be taken control of by Black Adam (maybe through the use of Eclipso) for the duration, though.


I agree. This cover alone hooks me, so we'll see where it ends up. Jean Eclipso Loring seducing Mary to join the BLACK Marvel family has some potential & this will be very cool to see how it unfolds. More covers & stories like this will make this hard to stay away. ;)
Just an incredible image.

[Mack]

Judd Winnick's GREEN ARROW is dead. His SHAZAM! can't be far behind. Put him on a JASON TODD on-going and let him be completely ignored until he disappears. But make him take "The Scare-Beast" with him.

[IronWolf]

Where the F is Andy Kubert?


Took the words right out of my mouth or post or whatever i agree i thought andy was gonna be doing batman as long as grant morrison Whats up there?

Batman superman looks kinna cool.

[Palm Trees]

The Mary Marvel image is great. That Black Canary, however, is not. Her face is so damn ugly, she looks like a Neanderthal.

[Lex]

Once again, I would like to point out the genius of this All-Star Superman cover:

http://i2.photobucket.com/albums/y37/haggard/ASSM_Cv8_solicit.jpg

I love all the details. The square wheel on that wheelbarrow. The square moon. All those fireworks sticking out of the rocket. And what I assume is Bizzaro Jor-El looking at his plan to send Superman from Bizzaro World back to Earth.

It's brilliant I tell you! Brilliant!

[BillReed]

MORRISON AND JH WILLIAMS!!!!!!!!! HUZZAHHH

[alohaboy]

Once again, I would like to point out the genius of this All-Star Superman cover:

I love all the details. The square wheel on that wheelbarrow. The square moon. All those fireworks sticking out of the rocket. And what I assume is Bizzaro Jor-El looking at his plan to send Superman from Bizzaro World back to Earth.

It's brilliant I tell you! Brilliant!

I have to agree. Normally I don't like Quitely's stuff, but I love this cover. I think he's also blowing his heat vision out of his mouth. Those are excellent little artistic details.

[jonnynyc]

I really am not into this super forced marraige of Black Canary and Green Arrow
Leave Dinah single. She is way more fun that way.
Poor Mary Marvel is going Dark, then will have a heroic moment, then will die just like every other character in these weeklies recently.
Teen Titans is (sadly) getting dropped immediately. I have no interest in Supergirl.
Thank god for All Star Superman and Sinestro Corps is all I have left to say.

[grantg]

It looks like Black Adam will die in 52 and Mary Marvel will end up with his powers plus Isis and Osiris' too. Where is everyone getting Eclipso from? Am I missing something in the pix?

How cool would a Black Mary be with an ultra Mister Tawky Tawny? :)

[RedRonin]

That Mary Marvel is a bit much. They should put a thought balloon why Mary thinking. "Must thrust out tits!".

I maybe the whole person who is excited about Dustin Nguyen on Superman/Batman.

[GregoryD]

That's more than likely Bizarro Lex, given his green costume.

Love the wedge of cheese, the cookie can, the cubic moon, Bizarro's fire breath, and the components of the rocket, that seem to consist of old signs and roman candles.

[Dave41Fan]

GREEN ARROW #75
Written by Judd Winick
Art and cover by Scott McDaniel & Andy Owens
The moment we thought we’d never see is here: Green Arrow finally asks the Black Canary for her hand in marriage in this special extra-sized final issue! After the tumultuous, on-and-off relationship they’ve shared throughout the years, what answer will Dinah give Ollie?
On sale June 13 • 40 pg, FC, $3.50 US • Final Issue

Well, it is a Judd Winick book, so Dinah will probably tell Ollie that she's a lesbian. :-P

Craig

[IvCNuB4]

It looks like Black Adam will die in 52 and Mary Marvel will end up with his powers plus Isis and Osiris' too. Where is everyone getting Eclipso from? Am I missing something in the pix?

The cover for "Seduction of the Innocent" shows Jean/Eclipso's hand touching Mary's face.

And I guess Batmen Of All Nations explains that odd Batman outfit in the DC teaser pic (http://forum.newsarama.com/showthread.php?t=99902&highlight=teaser+image) now ?

And I agree, that's Bizarro-Jor-El: Green outfit, sending his "son" into space. See how there are cookies taped along for the ride. That's what you send on a trip with a kid. Plus the sketch he is holding shows the rocket traveling from Bizzaro World to Earth.

Mary Marvel switches to the Black Marvel family? The lightning bolt is backwards on her costume too..

Umm, no it's not (http://forum.newsarama.com/showthread.php?t=105461) ....

[grantg]

The cover for "Seduction of the Innocent" shows Jean/Eclipso's hand touching Mary's face.

Ah, thanks!

Sorry for the hugeness.
http://www.newsarama.com/NYCC/2007/DC/HPIM0482.jpg

[richstanz]

Couple thoughts:

1. I've been reading about the over-sexualization of female characters in comics, especially with DC and Supergirl. I'm not sure how many people are actually complaining, but the moment I saw that Mary Marvel cover, I just rolled my eyes.

Whether she is 13 or 18, there is no reason for the skirt to be that short, the chest to be that huge and sticking out. Is that all we care about as comic fans? Surely we're better than that.

2. I've not read Beechen's "Robin" so I have no idea how he will do on Teen Titans. But I am disappointed to see a tie-in already in his run. I have no problem with new and/or untested writers getting gigs on books like TT or Superman/Batman, but my problem is that, at least from the preview info, there seems to be no drive in these books.

It doesn't feel like the writers have any over-arching goals with their work on the books. Whereas, on Dini's Detective or Morrison's books, even Winnick's Green Aarow, you can see that they are trying to break new ground, say new things; their writing has a point. These new books seem like stock stories being printed, just so DC can have a copy on the shelves this month. I've read enough mediocre TT and Superman and Batman stories, I don't need another one.

[bluebird]

Couple thoughts:

1. I've been reading about the over-sexualization of female characters in comics, especially with DC and Supergirl. I'm not sure how many people are actually complaining, but the moment I saw that Mary Marvel cover, I just rolled my eyes.

Whether she is 13 or 18, there is no reason for the skirt to be that short, the cheast to be that huge and sticking out. Is that all we care about as comic fans? Surely we're better than that.


Agreed. Whether she's a pre-teen or a teen, either way she' s not a grown woman. If we have to have hypersexualized DC heroines, can't they at least be the ones who are 18 and over? It's like DC listened to all the kevetching about Supergirl and decided instead of making Supergirl more like Mary, they'd do the opposite (and I say this realizing this is just a single cheesecake image on a single cover by a single artist, not a company policy, I know).

Also, it's extra weird seeing in light of Smith's SHAZAM!, where Mary is a little girl. How about using Smith's SHAZAM! as a steppign stone to the DCU proper for all those thousands who are going to read it who have never touched a DC comic befor? Why

[Kolimar]

Couple thoughts:

1. I've been reading about the over-sexualization of female characters in comics, especially with DC and Supergirl. I'm not sure how many people are actually complaining, but the moment I saw that Mary Marvel cover, I just rolled my eyes.

Whether she is 13 or 18, there is no reason for the skirt to be that short, the cheast to be that huge and sticking out. Is that all we care about as comic fans? Surely we're better than that.

I'm not. :p :D First, there's nothing wrong with sexiness as long as it's well done and this is. Second, can't you see beyond the sexiness? Whatever you think it's a damn good cover, sexy or not. Third, there is no "over-sexualization" here except in your mind. :p :D ;)

[Kolimar]

Who would have tought ? Mary Marvel looks HOT :)

Mary's always been HOT. :mad: :p :D

[Kolimar]

Remember the pin: SEDUCTION OF THE INNOCENT.

Also, on the Batmen of All Nations: since Morrison is putting SIlver Age ideas in Batman like in All Star Superman, would you consider Morrison's run on Batman as the true All Star Batman?

Since the beginning of Morrison's run I've been saying he should have been given ASBatman where he could have been let loose like with ASSuperman and play with the toys any way he saw fit, free from continuity. His Batman is not a good fit for the main DCU and is only half-way of what it could have been as an All Star: freaking awesome. Sigh...

[Deadshot77]

I'm not. :p :D First, there's nothing wrong with sexiness as long as it's well done and this is. Second, can't you see beyond the sexiness? Whatever you think it's a damn good cover, sexy or not. Third, there is no "over-sexualization" here except in your mind. :p :D ;)

I'm going to have to agree only because a good sexy cover will get me almost every time, depending on the interest in the character. I like Mary Marvel. Surely this is sexy & you might not like it for Mary Marvel, but the storyline is "SEDUCTION of the INNOCENT" for a reason. I do hope she comes out of this as a stronger character & not dead as one poster pondered. The Marvel Family is just that. No need to streamline them all into one character. Hopefully, if anything, this places a larger role for Mary Marvel in the DCU. I enjoyed her in Formerly Known as Justice League & would like to have seen more before DC started making changes. Good to see them coming around to featuring Mary & Ray Palmer again. :)

[Kolimar]

SUPERMAN/BATMAN #37
Written by Alan Burnett
Art and cover by Dustin Nguyen & Derek Fridolf
Variant cover by Claudio Castellini
Get ready for an epic tale written by Alan Burnett (Batman Beyond, The Superman/Batman Adventures animated series)

Comic book creators and their work in other fields. What do you think? (http://forum.newsarama.com/showthread.php?t=56758) :p :D ;)

[roshambo]

looks like Superman/Batman will be getting dropped in favor of trades.
i'm about "6-part epic"ed out....

[ColourMan]

None of these have really captured my interest. I'll just be sticking to my good old regulars.

[Action Ace]

Grant Morrison+ J.H. Williams III+ Batmen Around the World= swimming pool of Kool-Aid :D

[Zechs]

GREEN LANTERN: SINESTRO CORPS SPECIAL #1
Written by Geoff Johns
Art by Ethan Van Sciver and Dave Gibbons
Cover by Van Sciver
The stellar creative team of the sell-out GREEN LANTERN: REBIRTH miniseries — Geoff Johns and Ethan Van Sciver — reunites for an extra-sized Special, igniting an intergalactic war that will explode in the pages of GREEN LANTERN and GREEN LANTERN CORPS!
Hal Jordan has struggled to regain his reputation. Kyle Rayner has suffered great personal loss and reluctantly gained great power. Guy Gardner's trust in the Guardians is wavering. John Stewart's unbreakable loyalty soon will be tested. Together, these four men are the Green Lanterns of Earth…but why are so many Earthmen recruited into the Corps? What is their ultimate rolel in the future of the universe? And how will the secret of the rings’ power threaten the Guardians and affect Hal Jordan's future?
Sinestro was called the “greatest” of the Green Lanterns; now the renegade has vowed to bring terror to the universe he once protected. The worst murderers, thieves and deviants in the universe have gathered into Sinestro's Corps for one purpose: to instill great fear. Armed with the truth behind Parallax, Sinestro's intergalactic insurgents strike hard and fast at the very heart of the Green Lantern Corps. The Sinestro Corps is about to change everything you know about the Green Lanterns. Fear them. Everyone else will.
Plus, a 6-page backup story by Johns and Dave Gibbons (GREEN LANTERN CORPS, WATCHMEN) — “The Origin of Sinestro”!
On sale June 27 • 64 pg, FC, $4.99 US Edited by Peter Tomasi

If only Hal would have listened.. and stopped fighting he could have heard all of this from the Cyborg Superman. :rolleyes: :p

[diana_fan]

My thoughts on these:

1. Benes is god.

2. Morrison and JHWIII? Oh baby!

3. Benes is god.

4. Supergirl and Cassie pounding the daylights out of people in an AA tie-in?! Oh, I am so there. And great cover by Tony Daniel.

5. Benes is god.

6. I think Countdown is really going to be amazing. I'm already really psyched for it.

7. Benes is god.

8. All Star Superman goodness ... no, GREATNESS comin' at ya. And man can Quitely put together amazing artwork. If only it didn't take him so long. :(

9 Benes is god.

[OM]

This year-long weekly series featuring a cast of hundreds kicks into high gear in its second month, under the watchful eye of head writer Paul Dini! See Mary Marvel undergo a surprising transformation! Learn why Donna Troy and Jason Todd are integral players in a cosmic chess game! And see Jimmy Olsen as you’ve never seen him before! ...In order:

1) Mary gets a BOOB JOB! With alternate covers by Michael Turner, and a 30-page thread on Newsarama!

2) Donna and Jason are the only ones who know that Despero and Bobby Fischer are playing chess, with the DCU as the prize to the winner! Not if Deep Blue and Gary Kasparov have anything to say about it, tho...

3) Jimmy goes undercover in a male strip club, unaware that his "half-monte" performance on-stage will upset the wrong group of women - a group of Apokoliptian killers out on the town to celebrate their leader's one millionth kill. Yes, join us throughout Countdown as Lashina and her Female Furies do their best to ensure that their vow of "Jimmy Olsen Must DIE!" is upheld! Be warned: even if they fail, Jimmy's manhood will severely be tested by this ordeal!

[theodoros2]

Ah, thanks!

Sorry for the hugeness.
http://www.newsarama.com/NYCC/2007/DC/HPIM0482.jpg

Could someone tell me where i can find these ads?Is there a link for these covers - ads?

[DarkJared]

It does seem that she will be taken control of by Black Adam (maybe through the use of Eclipso) for the duration, though.

Or maybe she replaces him after WW3?

[diana_fan]

Or maybe she replaces him after WW3?

Ooooh. I think I just had chills. :)

That's a really cool idea.

[JLAJRC]

Ah, nostalgia... :D

The Batmen of Many Nations/of All Nations/of the World (http://forum.newsarama.com/showthread.php?t=92865) :p :D ;)

Am I the only person who has read that old Brave and the Bold issue featuring the Bat-Squad? That was also international in flavor, but that was their only appearence.

I hope BC turns GA down. That just seemed to come out of nowhere.

[Drcharles]

Looking forward to the sols on Monday,

Great to see Don Kramer drawing Zatanna in Detective Comics that should be good..........
How many issues will All Star Superman be on for ?, this is taking some time to get somewhere isn't it ?
The Sinestro Corps I reckon is going to a mega , megs , megs Hit.......:D, I'm in for this one like everyone else on the planet.
In the CountDown Issues, is the Image supposed to be that of Mary Marvel ?....... Looking cool.......:cool:

[Michael D.]

The Bat-Squad issue of B&B is one of my favorites. Drawn by Nick Cardy, wasn't it?

[EMeadow]

Looks like Superman/Batman's double shipping in June. That new arc starts with #37 and #36 hasn't been solicited yet.

[richstanz]

I'm not. :p :D First, there's nothing wrong with sexiness as long as it's well done and this is. Second, can't you see beyond the sexiness? Whatever you think it's a damn good cover, sexy or not. Third, there is no "over-sexualization" here except in your mind. :p :D ;)

I just don't think its well done. See Amanda Conner's depiction of Power Girl in JSA: Classified I think is a *good* example of using chessecake and titiliation, making a drawing look sexy. Frank Cho can do it too (although sometimes he goes overboard).

But I mean, the lightning is going right into her chest. Her boobs are the centerpiece of that image. She's not being knocked back, she isn't stumbling just a little bit. Her boobs are soooo ready to thrust out. Its just eye-rolling.

I don't understand the practicality of such a short skirt. Again see Power Girl, I don't mind that costume as much because she doesn't attempt the falsities of fashion. But this Mary Marvel costume image is designed to make the skirt soooo short, that maybe it will ride up and we'll get a peek at something *forbidden*. If it was just a singlet like PG, then it wouldn't seem so titilating - it would just be like a bathing suit.

I know it all has to with the "Seduction of the Innocent" stoyline. I think the image of Eclipso's hand and the shadow of her face convey the danger and shock much better than this. I hope the goal is to present a Sue Storm-Malice type situation (http://www.worldsgreatestcritic.com/ff281.jpg) where it was *supposed* to be shocking and upsetting, signaling the turn to evil.'

I hope that's what it is, and just not an exploitive shot of a character that has always been portrayed as virginal, who is just discovering "new feelings"... and has also been portrayed this month to look like this: http://www.boneville.com/2007/01/12/shazam-production-journal-mary-marvel/

I'm just kind of done with the sexpot super-heroines. Isn't it enough that we have Black Cat and Power Girl and Red Sonja and Witchblade and Battle Chasers and Tigra and Vampirella and Phantom Lady? Did we really *need* another one?

[JAGII]

First, there's nothing wrong with sexiness as long as it's well done and this is.

What, in your opinion, makes this well done? I don't have a problem with well-done "sexiness" either, but this image-- as well as most of the women Benes draws-- seems to be gratuitous and distracting.

The focal point of the image-- and, I'm assuming, the thematic purpose of the cover, is the connection between the lightning bolt and MM's symbol. Of course, these converge on her chest, which is fine, but the enlarged breasts and thrust of her chest draws attention away from the lightning's "seduction" and to her breasts as a sex object.

Furthermore, the curve of her back, and the trajectory of the lightning, draws the eye down from the point of convergence and down her back-- to her butt, which is partially exposed by the mini-skirt. The partial exposure works to further distract you from the lightning by inviting the reader to, in the words of Wolfgang Iser, "fill in the gaps:" we have been given enough her butt to wonder what the rest looks like.

So while we "should" be wondering about what changes she undergoes with this lightening strike, we wonder, "Gee, what's her butt look like?"

Again, that's the reading I'm getting; what's yours?

EDIT: ^^^ I guess richstanz and I were not only thinking (relatively) the same thing, but we were typing it at the same time. Sorry, didn't mean to double-team you, Kolimar!

[richstanz]

Just one more reason I think the Mary Marvel shot is ridiculous: what issue is this for?

I know DC needs to be tight-lipped about how much info they release about Countdown, but this is all they can show?

Other than the Black Adam color scheme, there's no conflict in the image. Its just a splash of an 18, at the oldest 21(?) year old girl wearing a "bad girl" getting hurling her chest out.

And its a girl that used to be "good" and "innocent." And that's all they need to show to get people to buy it.

Its just (sigh) I have female friends that would give me grief for this. For as much as Maus or Blankets or Watchmen may attempt, people still think this is all that comics are and this is what *every* comic fan likes.

I have a younger sister who loves SM Loves Mary-Jane and Runaways and Spider-Girl, and I really don't think she would like this (because its written by Sean McKeever). Plus, I don't think I should show her this. Especially when she is a young woman growing up; I would hate for her to think that this is what 18 year old girls' bodies are supposed to look like, and this is what *all* guys like in a woman.

[Thalya]

Umm, no it's not (http://forum.newsarama.com/showthread.php?t=105461) ....

Yes it is. Look below at the post immediately following the one I'm quoting and you'll see her lightning bolt crooking to her right (instead of her left in that cover) in that Seduction of the Innocent poster.

[Newguy]

What's with all this whining about a cover featuring a hot girl? Too sexualized? Isn't that the way it's suppose to be on account that the majority of comic readers are guys? Have you seen any comic devolped for woman? It's the same thing except with hot guys instead of hot girls. Even if she is underage that doesn't magically make her less sexy. MM's a ficitonal character and not a real person! It's ok to want to fap to her.

What's with this prudishness? You American-comics only people need to stop worrying so much. You're not suddenly going to become a real life pedo if you think a 15 year old character is sexy in a comic book. Hell, look at anime fans, they embrace all sorts of sexual fetishes from loli's to traps to guro instead of trying to preach some moralistic bull.

[diana_fan]

Just one more reason I think the Mary Marvel shot is ridiculous: what issue is this for?

I know DC needs to be tight-lipped about how much info they release about Countdown, but this is all they can show?

Other than the Black Adam color scheme, there's no conflict in the image. Its just a splash of an 18, at the oldest 21(?) year old girl wearing a "bad girl" getting hurling her chest out.

And its a girl that used to be "good" and "innocent." And that's all they need to show to get people to buy it.

Its just (sigh) I have female friends that would give me grief for this. For as much as Maus or Blankets or Watchmen may attempt, people still think this is all that comics are and this is what *every* comic fan likes.

I have a younger sister who loves SM Loves Mary-Jane and Runaways and Spider-Girl, and I really don't think she would like this (because its written by Sean McKeever). Plus, I don't think I should show her this. Especially when she is a young woman growing up; I would hate for her to think that this is what 18 year old girls' bodies are supposed to look like, and this is what *all* guys like in a woman.

Wow.

To me, and without knowing the storyline, it seems like Mary is accepting the darkness, or at least submitting to a different path. She has her hands out the side, her eyes closed, in a pose of acceptance.

Now, is it hot? Sure. It's Benes. That's why he is Benes. But it's also quality work. I mean, take a look at that hair for a second! That is awesome hair. And I'm not kidding. Great Rod Reis coloring which doesn't surprise me since he does such an impressive job every month in Supergirl.

It's not that every woman is supposed to look like this. But it is idealized, yes. The same way that Benes' male figures are idealized. They are all super-heroes. It's like Botticelli's art, for instance: he painted what he thought were idealized figures for the time, and in his mind, because they were meant to represent the goals of human striving, and thus perfection.

I'm not interested in Superman or Batman having a beer gut. And I am not interested in Mary Marvel having a bad complection. (Although, writing this just made me laugh, thinking back to where in Runaways Emma Frost calls Gert a "rotund abomination." Just made laugh, anyway ...)

Also, I think people give Benes way too much grief. So, his work is saucy. Big deal. He's Brazilian, and they're different.

[JAGII]

What's with all this whining about a cover featuring a hot girl? Too sexualized? Isn't that the way it's suppose to be on account that the majority of comic readers are guys? Have you seen any comic devolped for woman? It's the same thing except with hot guys instead of hot girls. Even if she is underage that doesn't magically make her less sexy. MM's a ficitonal character and not a real person! It's ok to want to fap to her.

What's with this prudishness? You American-comics only people need to stop worrying so much. You're not suddenly going to become a real life pedo if you think a 15 year old character is sexy in a comic book. Hell, look at anime fans, they embrace all sorts of sexual fetishes from loli's to traps to guro instead of trying to preach some moralistic bull.

If you can't be bothered to actually understand our arguments-- both richstanz and I argue that sexuality is fine in certain contexts-- then could you at least avoid being insulting?

Thanks.

[ROBRAM89]

What's with all this whining about a cover featuring a hot girl? Too sexualized? Isn't that the way it's suppose to be on account that the majority of comic readers are guys? Have you seen any comic devolped for woman? It's the same thing except with hot guys instead of hot girls. Even if she is underage that doesn't magically make her less sexy. MM's a ficitonal character and not a real person! It's ok to want to fap to her.

What's with this prudishness? You American-comics only people need to stop worrying so much. You're not suddenly going to become a real life pedo if you think a 15 year old character is sexy in a comic book. Hell, look at anime fans, they embrace all sorts of sexual fetishes from loli's to traps to guro instead of trying to preach some moralistic bull.

I'm not sure I like this, but I agree.

[diana_fan]

If you can't be bothered to actually understand our arguments-- both richstanz and I argue that sexuality is fine in certain contexts-- then could you at least avoid being insulting?

Thanks.

But this cover isn't sexual (well, not in the sense that you mean it, anyways). It's just an attractive woman. And?

[JAGII]

But this cover isn't sexual (well, not in the sense that you mean it, anyways). It's just an attractive woman. And?

See, I think it is. I understand your "reading" of the cover and certainly think its a valid one: there is certainly an element of acceptance and submission in her pose and facial expression; however, I don't think you can dismiss the sexual elements as simply the features of an attractive woman.

As I said in an earlier post, the focal point of the image is the convergence of the lightning bolt and her symbol. Again, this makes perfect sense, but this point is also her breasts, which are jutting out and, as far as I can tell, Benes has chosen to draw the nipple of her right breast protruding through the costume. Also, the lower portion of her butt is shown outside of her mini-skirt. What do either one of these elements have to do with surrender?

Again, I think your reading is a sound one. However, I think these elements, the breasts and the butt, distract from that reading and are, therefore, inappropriate. One could argue that Benes is trying for an "Ecstasy of St. Theresa" thing, but given his, as you say, "saucy" style, I find that unlikely.

[ROBRAM89]

Sometimes a lightning bolt is just a lightning bolt.

[Barry Strange]

Please tell me that they are not going to slut up Mary Marvel like they did with Supergirl!! I love Benes's art, but what they hell is going on? Isn't she like 13 or 14 years old??

Too late--they did that in the last Superbuddies miniseries.

[RRGrayson]

Green Arrow ending....... man.....

Here Kevin Smith reboots it a few years ago. I thought it was doing ok.

And this thing about Ollie proposing.... you know she's not gonna accept. Also remember that the teaser image shows Ollie looking down at Dinah but she's looking away.

An engagement or wedding???........Not gonna happen.

And a Arrow/Canary book later on?? Where was that announced?

Mary Marvel - cute image. Gonna be interesting.....

AND can someone put Jason Todd back into the ground PLEASE?

[Barry Strange]

Am I the only person who has read that old Brave and the Bold issue featuring the Bat-Squad? That was also international in flavor, but that was their only appearence.

Nope, read that issue also--would like to see an update/sequal, please.

[diana_fan]

Again, I think your reading is a sound one. However, I think these elements, the breasts and the butt, distract from that reading and are, therefore, inappropriate. One could argue that Benes is trying for an "Ecstasy of St. Theresa" thing, but given his, as you say, "saucy" style, I find that unlikely.

I think that's exactly what he is going for.

Look, I think American (especially) fans seem very uptight a lot of the time. Like I said, Ed Benes is from Brazil. The same country that has immortalized the thong and turned beach volleyball into an international and Olympic sport, played for high stakes.

I didn't even notice the nipple until you pointed it out. I mean, I watch a lot of tennis, and you see nipples pressing through outfits all the freakin' time. No one gives it a second thought. No one. You also see the bottom of a butt under a skirt. Again, no one gives it a second thought. It's just not a big deal.

Benes drew Mary like he draws all his women: hot. Benes' sister draws the same way. Benes' brother: the same. And seriously, look at most of the Brazilian artists, and you seem the sort of thing. Look at Reis' cover to the next issue of GL to see what I mean.

Now, there is an element of sexuality in this (meaning the Mary Marvel) cover, but that doesn't mean it is sexual. There's a difference. Now, if they had Mary pole dancing, then yeah, I think someone might have an argument.

You know, it's funny. I've seen, for instance, Botticielli's "The Birth of Venus" in person. She's totally nude. Where did I see this? The Vatican Museums. Tons of art done during the Renaissance featured nude or partially nude figures, even many of those in churches. You walk into the Piazza della Signoria in Florence, and you are greeted with a 17' tall replica of Michaelangelo's "David", nude. His stuff is right there, for everyone to see, in a Piazza which sees probably ... I have no idea how many people each day. But a lot.

And here, we're willing to condemn Benes' cover as overtly sexual, or hyper-sexualized because a tiny portion of her caboose is visible? It's a heck of a lot less than if she were wearing a bikini. And young women wear bikinis all the time.

I guess I just don't get it. I remember when Ashcroft (and no, I am not comparing anyone to Ashcroft) wanted those classical statues covered with drapes around their tops, because he was disturbed by their boobies. I didn't get that either.

Benes draws hot women. He clearly likes to have some fun and play around. I just see it as a sweet cover that also gets across something important happening to Mary.

[ROBRAM89]

Nobody complains that Captain Marvel wears a skintight outfit (well, not the top half, but that's not where tightness comes into it on a man's costume), and HE'S a friggin' teenager too.

[Thalya]

Here's a weird idea... What if Mary Marvel's story arc serves as a descent into a lack of innocence and a world of over-sexualization, but ultimately proves to be a repudiation of it? Over-sexualization could be said to be the antithesis of her character, a perfect nemesis for her.

Now what I find interesting is how much learning she's going to get from Jean Loring/Eclipso on the matter.

[diana_fan]

Here's a weird idea... What if Mary Marvel's story arc serves as a descent into a lack of innocence and a world of over-sexualization, but ultimately proves to be a repudiation of it? Over-sexualization could be said to be the antithesis of her character, a perfect nemesis for her.

Now what I find interesting is how much learning she's going to get from Jean Loring/Eclipso on the matter.

If it is a "Sex is 'teh evil'" story, I will demand my money back.

[beta-ray]

dang it! I don't like Batman but I do love JHWIII....

*sigh* I guess it gets ordered...

[JAGII]

I think that's exactly what he is going for.

Well, once again, d_f, you make a fine argument and force me to reconsider my position. Thanks!

I know this is hardly a coherent argument on my part, but here are the parts of your argument that I still have trouble with:

1) It seems like a large part of your argument is based on Benes's nationality. I understand that different countries have different sensibilities, and the more outside voices in mainstream comics, the better. But I don't know that it makes what he does inherently acceptable.

2) Of course, you are more arguing that these sort of features (female anatomy) have little to no effect on the larger world. But does that nullify the responses of this comic's audience? I don't think so. You are right- European audiences and modern "fine" art audiences do not react negatively to it-- but these audiences are not the same as the mainstream comic audience. Where sexuality can be handled in an interesting and moving way, sexuality is treated as mere exploitation in mainstream comics.

At the same time I'm saying this, I know that I want mainstream comics to do different things and to be able to treat sexuality in an interesting way. I would love to see a mainstream comic intermingle sexuality and spirituality.

But Ed Benes's work, and I'm having a hard time shaking off his earlier BoP and Supergirl work, seems to be based more on the poses found in commercial treatments of sexuality than anything found in Botticielli.

I know I'm kind of rambling here; part of that is because you've made such a fine argument and I'm re-working my position and part of it is that I'm sleepy. I'll end with this question for you: where do you, personally, draw the line between exploitation and an acceptable treatment of sexuality?

(This is probably going to a Potter Stewart "I know it when I see it" point, isn't it? Anyway, thanks for the good discussion.)

[ROBRAM89]

If it is a "Sex is 'teh evil'" story, I will demand my money back.

If Geoff Johns were writing it he'd have her explain her short skirt as something she intended to replace when she found her identity but never found the right thing for. Because being attractive is clearly a sign a woman is emotionally shattered.

[grantg]

Too late--they did that in the last Superbuddies miniseries.

Oddly enough, I have a problem with this pix:

http://www.newsarama.com/dcnew/June07/CTDW_Cv47_solicit.jpg

But absolutely no problem at all with this pix:

http://www.brokenfrontier.com/img/2005/mar/DC/JLAClassifiedCv8.jpg

I'm really not sure why... maybe the 'age' thing. IMHO, she looks like a child on the Countdown cover, but on the ICBINTJL cover she looks like a woman.

::Thinks about it:::

Yep, that's it. It also explains why I feel icky picking up an issue of Supergirl.

[grantg]

If Geoff Johns were writing it he'd have her explain her short skirt as something she intended to replace when she found her identity but never found the right thing for. Because being attractive is clearly a sign a woman is emotionally shattered.

Based on the JSA:C story, I always wondered why PG didn't slap an 'S' on her chest after IC. I mean, really, Kara would probably welcome anything that helped support her breasts.

[trillian42]

It's interesting reading the complaints about the Mary Marvel cover, because I (a thirtysomething woman) didn't even notice her boobs or the 'peek' at her butt until reading the comments and then going back and looking at the picture. I'm actually impressed that she has a fairly normal body relative to many comic book women.

Maybe it's because I'm not wired to notice boobs, but my first impression of the image was the black costume, the look on her face and the position of her hands, which triggered the question: What's happening to her? Her body looks like someone being hit by magical lightning or recieving powers. I don't see anything "sexual" at all. She's wearing far more fabric than most Olympic figure skaters! I don't see what the problem is.

[Duke Jupiter]

Out of all this stuff, I'm only interested in BATMAN, and once again, no Andy Kubert, but JH Williams will do just fine.

- DJ

[God-Man]

I can't wait for Countdown, Detective Comics, and All Star Superman. I don't know if I'll be buying Superman/Batman by June. I guess I'll give Beechen a chance on Teen Titans, but we'll see.

[bluebird]

Nobody complains that Captain Marvel wears a skintight outfit (well, not the top half, but that's not where tightness comes into it on a man's costume), and HE'S a friggin' teenager too.

Billy Batson's a teenager; Captain Marvel is a grown man. (It depends on the continuity, but Mary, like Freddie, doesn't age when she gets the bolt).

And I'd be happy to complain about a image like this where we see Captain Marvel's ass cheeks hanging out of his skirt and/or the lightning bolt hitting him in his little captain, which is thrust out to receive it.

[diana_fan]

Well, once again, d_f, you make a fine argument and force me to reconsider my position. Thanks!

It has been an interesting discussion!

I know I'm kind of rambling here; part of that is because you've made such a fine argument and I'm re-working my position and part of it is that I'm sleepy. I'll end with this question for you: where do you, personally, draw the line between exploitation and an acceptable treatment of sexuality?

(This is probably going to a Potter Stewart "I know it when I see it" point, isn't it? Anyway, thanks for the good discussion.)

Yep. :)

Seriously though, I used to have season tickets to the opera. And one year, one of the operas was Richard Strauss' "Salome". There was a hot little soprano singing the role that year, and she did the whole dance of the seven veils. I'm sitting there in the 10th row, and this woman strips right down, to 100% nude, and I'm staring at her whole body naked on stage.

I'm maybe fifty feet from her, and she is completely naked, singing her heart out, her entire body on view. So, I guess, when I see something like this cover, it really doesn't bother me.

I'm not sure where I would draw the line. If Mary were pole dancing, naked, then it would seem pretty weird. As it is, she is taking a divine hit. I can accept that. And she is completely dressed. I find it difficult to be troubled by this image.

Again, is she hot? Sure she is. Does she have great breasts and a really arched back? Yep. But again, that's Benes. He draws very hot people, men or women. I end up appreciating the beauty of the drawing as opposed to being offended.

I've said in other threads, but I'll repeat it here: When I was about 10 years old, I saw "Alien", "Apocalypse Now", and "The Shining" in the theatre. So, I guess I have a different standard. And I came to comics at about the age of 35. So, I didn't have any pre-conceived notions about them. I had seen strippers in action, I had seen films like "Pulp Fiction", and I had seen "high art" like opera where women stripped naked and people were stabbed through, blood spurting all over.

When I look at comics, I am amazed by the diversity. Something like Morrison's We3 makes me cry every single time I read it. Whereas I read the O'Neil/Adams Green Lantern/Green Arrow and I have a great time. I guess I don't really care if comics are "safe" for children. It never occurs to me as an issue, and I never consider it when dealing with other art forms.

Is opera safe for children? Probably not. It's full of murder, rape, abuse, enslavement, and all sorts of horrible nastiness. Is Shakespeare safe for children? I don't know. A play like "Macbeth"? "Hamlet"? I really don't know.

I think that comics should be held to the same standard as other art forms, whether they are opera, ballet, the novel, the short story, theatre, film, whatever. I expect the same sort of adult, thought-provoking reading experince when I pick up a comic as I do when I listen to an opera or I read a play or I watch a film. Maybe that's just me. And maybe it's because I came to comics late in life.

It might be me. I am completely open to that. But I will never assume that comics are childish, or more juvenile than other art forms. I will always expect the same level of maturity from comics that I expect from other art forms.

[MisterClock]

http://www.newsarama.com/dcnew/June07/CTDW_Cv47_solicit.jpg



Gawd, Mary Marvel is smoking.

I'm guessing she loses her virginity. :eek:

I hope it's not another 'rape victim' cliche. That's sooooo 1990s.:rolleyes:

[Shackmania]

:rolleyes:

1955 redux.

Ugh.

To be honest, I don't know what the Batmen of all Nations is and I'm no youngster(born 1949) but I just don't remember it.

1955 was over 50 years ago, so it may be new to many. And there is nothing wrong with putting a modern take on an old concept. It can be a very creative process.

Shackmania1

[richstanz]

What's with all this whining about a cover featuring a hot girl? Too sexualized? Isn't that the way it's suppose to be on account that the majority of comic readers are guys?

First - yeah most comic readers are guys, but I wouldn't mind comics that woman and kids, and whoever else would want to read. The more people that read comics, the more diverse comics will be published. If all comics are going to do is cater to adult males (and not even *all* adult males buy comics) then we're just going to get the same stories over and over.
Second - even if comics were just geared to adult males, it doesn't mean that *all* comics need to be too sexualized. I need a break from it once and awhile.

Have you seen any comic devolped for woman? It's the same thing except with hot guys instead of hot girls.

I've really got to disagree with you. There is no male equivalent of Power Girl. And I certainly don't think it is Power Boy. If DC wanted to really follow through on the PB joke, shouldn't he have a large, unpractical hole over his crotch? It's not that big a deal that he has a hole over his pecs.

Yeah, guys wear tights, but how many male characters have their crotch emphasized? How many of them have ridiculously huge bulges in their pants? How many of them pose on covers with their pelvis thrust forward?

Even if she is underage that doesn't magically make her less sexy. MM's a ficitonal character and not a real person! It's ok to want to fap to her.

That's the thing, I don't register underage girls as sexy or unsexy. There are plenty of legal age women out there for me to find sexy. It's not like there's *that* much of a shortage, that I need to start looking at the 15 year olds.
And yes, its okay for fictional characters to be drawn sexy, but again - there are enough real women out there, that I don't need to "fap" to a drawing.

What's with this prudishness? You American-comics only people need to stop worrying so much. You're not suddenly going to become a real life pedo if you think a 15 year old character is sexy in a comic book.

I know I'm not going to be arrested, if I own comics with sexy 15 year olds in them. But I also think its not going to help the stigma that all comic fans are repressed man-boys who live in their parents' basement and have never talked to a real girl, so the only sexual stimulation they like is from drawings of super-heroes.

Hell, look at anime fans, they embrace all sorts of sexual fetishes from loli's to traps to guro instead of trying to preach some moralistic bull.

Yeah, there are all sorts of different depictions of sexuality in anime, and there are also real depictions of adult and teenage girls. And anime is watched by men, women, and children. And anime isn't just marketed to adult males. And beyond sexuality, there is so much diversity in the anime genre, that you can find just about any story you like. And anime doesn't always have to sex up the female characters.

[richstanz]

To diana_fan: You raise a lot of great points in defense of the artwork, enough to make me realize that my problem isn't so much with the artwork, as it is with the way it is marketed.

I still have some problem with Benes' art, but its more about technical appreciation, than any feelings of morality. I just feel its a dull image. The use of black against the white & yellow doesn't register as that striking to me. And the sparse, white background just doesn't work for me. And yes, I just think her breasts are disproportionately large to her svelt body shape. There isn't enough going on with Mary and the Black Adam costume and the lightning to attract my interest as a reader.

Like I said earlier, I thought the first image released a couple weeks ago, which showed Eclipso's hand over Mary's face was so much more striking, and actually told a more significant story than this Ed Benes image.

There is a lot of great story potential in comic book called "Seduction of the innocent" and using Eclipso and Mary Marvel as some sort of temptress and tempted, but this cover just doesn't sell all that potential enough.

I have no problems with a pin-up splash, I just don't see why this pin-up splash is so significant that DC would advertise it? Were they only trying to capitalize on the sexiness in the women Benes draws? Hell, why did they pick Benes to draw this, if his reputation is how sexy he makes his drawings look?

But considering that: 1.) a DC Nation column focused on trying to get women to read Supergirl, 2.) women fans were asking about the treatment of Spoiler at this weekend's Wizardworld L.A., 3.) DC is trying to develop the Minx line to interest female readers, 4.) they still deal with controversy over "Identity Crisis" - these all tell me that DC has to be somewhat aware of what type of work it releases in regards to its female characters.

So if they're releasing sexy depictions of a teenage girl, in a "bad girl" costume, from a story called "seduction of the innocent," I believe that DC editorial/marketing has to know somewhat that this is going to get a rise out of people (good and bad). For DC to court that, is what feels exploitive to me.

And like I said earlier, I have no problem with cheescake in comics - I just don't want it all the time - I would like some variety. I just think there are enough female characters depicted this way, that I don't know why they needed to try it with Mary Marvel. DC can still do the "seduction" story, but I just don't see what this artwork contributes to it.

Amazingly, on Benes' homepage, I found a much better pin-up of Mary Marvel: http://edbenesart.com/images/Color/MaryMarvelSupergirl.jpg
For some reason, it works for me on a techinical level.

[silverbolt]

Well, it is a Judd Winick book, so Dinah will probably tell Ollie that she's a lesbian. :-P

Craig

or has HIV.

OH I WENT THERE!!!

[silverbolt]

To diana_fan:
Amazingly, on Benes' homepage, I found a much better pin-up of Mary Marvel: http://edbenesart.com/images/Color/MaryMarvelSupergirl.jpg
For some reason, it works for me on a techinical level.

err, you realize the picture in this link has Mary Marvel's butt cheeks in the air do you ?
I mean literally, her skirt is over her ass. That, is overtly sexual IMO. and using the same anatomical arguements people tend to use here - her beaver would be catching quite the drift here.

Having a comic cover where "said character who receives power through a lightning bolt through the chest from a heavenly godlike force" RECEIVES "a power bolt to the chest from a godlike source" shouldnt be that big of a deal.

Yes, shes a girl. girls have boobies. in the world of comics they tend to wear tight latex-type clothing so yea, it can be very form fitting. She has boobies. She has breasts.
She has mammaries.

the pose? nothing i havent seen from movies or cartoons where someone is receiving some power from above or meeting some kind of deity. You can almost hear the chorus singing in the background of this scene if that cover were a scene in a movie. You know, the big orchestral music and gregorian chanting rising to the climax at where the bolt is received?

come on...its Mary Marvel.

[Kebab Gud]

Green Arrow ending....... man.....

Here Kevin Smith reboots it a few years ago. I thought it was doing ok.

And this thing about Ollie proposing.... you know she's not gonna accept. Also remember that the teaser image shows Ollie looking down at Dinah but she's looking away.

An engagement or wedding???........Not gonna happen.

And a Arrow/Canary book later on?? Where was that announced?


Green Arrow is doing ok, better then ok really, its not a top seller but its close to the top
And its no dought that dinah is going to say yes.. but not right away.. thats what the Black Canary Mini is all about..

and the Green Arrow/Black Canary book has not been announced, but the rumor cam about a the same time as the end of Green Arrow..
Ohh and the fact that in DC nation colum Didio has been saying for some time "They belong together"

[richstanz]

err, you realize the picture in this link has Mary Marvel's butt cheeks in the air do you ?
I mean literally, her skirt is over her ass. That, is overtly sexual IMO. and using the same anatomical arguements people tend to use here - her beaver would be catching quite the drift here.

Having a comic cover where "said character who receives power through a lightning bolt through the chest from a heavenly godlike force" RECEIVES "a power bolt to the chest from a godlike source" shouldnt be that big of a deal.

The reason I mentioned the other Benes "MM" drawing was that like I said earlier, I just found this new Black Adam-influenced look to be a dull image. And yeah, the ass is visible in the shot I posted, but Benes didn't go overboard in giving her too-huge breasts. And the pose is isn't so "pose"-y. The reaction/details on her face, the body language actually convey "18 year old girl."

Yeah, her ass is showing - I said I had no problem with cheesecake when its done right - I think my problem is with DC marketing an exploitive shot.

In fact with the Kevin Maguire-drawn "evil MM" from FKAJLI also on this thread, the original Eclipso/MM picture that is posted on this thread, plus the other Benes pin-up of MM that I linked to, I think those are 3 images that better convey: danger, sexiness, a turn to the dark side, temptation. I even think that Benes can draw better pin-ups of Mary Marvel, than this one for "Countdown."

I just think this "countdown" image is dull and the sexuality is lifeless and cliche and just about titliation.

Yes, shes a girl. girls have boobies. in the world of comics they tend to wear tight latex-type clothing so yea, it can be very form fitting. She has boobies. She has breasts.
She has mammaries.

Yes, girls have boobies - but not every girl has 36DD sized breasts. The "Countdown" drawing of Mary Marvel depicts a very-athletically trimmed body, so I don't see why breasts would be that big, in proportion to the rest of her. I can accept women's brests, big and small - but I'm just tired of empty sexpot images, where every girl is modeled like Pamela Anderson, even though that body only exists through multiple cosmetic surgeries.

[silverbolt]

Yes, girls have boobies - but not every girl has 36DD sized breasts. The "Countdown" drawing of Mary Marvel depicts a very-athletically trimmed body, so I don't see why breasts would be that big, in proportion to the rest of her. I can accept women's brests, big and small - but I'm just tired of empty sexpot images, where every girl is modeled like Pamela Anderson, even though that body only exists through multiple cosmetic surgeries.

yikes, well we can agree to disagree I guess. Ive seen far worse depictions but whatever. I mean, in the context, of her being SEDUCED by some sort of power, and shes receiving it through at that moment - it doenst seem cliched at all to me. Maybe Im just numb.

And her chest just doesnt look at all that big to me. again, maybe Im numb. The only time a hero Ive seen has ever been depicted as not being trim and athletic in a comic has been Blue Beetle when he was gaining weight in the Giffen days where he actually HAD to work out - and LOSH's bouncing boy. That's it really. So I just take it with a grain a salt that when this teenage receives her powers, like CM Jr and Billy, her body becomes a heightened human's physique.

and 36DD? Me hopes you was exaggerating my good man. even back in high school there were athletic girls with a nice rack. they exist. BUT IM NOT TURNING THIS INTO ANOTHER POWER GIRL THREAD! Mary's actually look supple and pretty perky.
:p :p :p

[JLAJRC]

Nope, read that issue also--would like to see an update/sequal, please.

They kinda/sorta updated it not too long ago in the recently canceled "Legends of the Dark Knight" title. It was a Mr. Freeze story and Batman rounds up a bunch of experts in various fields to help him. They don't officially call themselves The Bat-Squad or anything, but they somehow screw up and Batman dismisses them. Not too bad a story, either.

[paulski]

Benes on a month's worth of Countdown covers, huh?

Guess I'm gonna be buying this weekly after all.

Bastards. :(

And yeah, that ASS cover is a classic. Just a riot. :D

[gwangung]

Normally, I'd have problems with the over-sexualization of a female hero---bla, bla, bla, yada yadda yadda.

However, there are two elements here that transform this somewhat. The Marvel personas in the modern age are self-imagined, idealized selfs. And these idealized selves are subject to the momentary visualizations of the people involved (Billy, Mary and Freddy).

Given that the theme of Mary Marvel's arc is "Seduction of the Innocent," I think one of the themes HAS to be sexual in nature (I repeat, ONE of the themes). And one meme among young people who are trying to reinvent themselves and are rebelling somewhat, is to dress sexily and provocatively, way beyond their years.

Given these two elements, I can see how this art is both accurate and thematically appropriate, and is almost required by the charater invvolved.

[EMeadow]

To be honest, I don't know what the Batmen of all Nations is and I'm no youngster(born 1949) but I just don't remember it.

1955 was over 50 years ago, so it may be new to many. And there is nothing wrong with putting a modern take on an old concept. It can be a very creative process.

Shackmania1

LOL that's a perfectly good excuse to buy the Batman Encylclopedia when it comes out in May. You'll be able to find out all about the Batmen of all Nations in great detail.

[MrNEWZ]

Yes, but there is going to be a "Green Arrow/Black Canary" title later in the year to replace it.

I guess that gives away the answer then, huh? ;-)

[ColourMan]

Wow, only 4 DCs this month:

Catwoman #68
Amazons Attack #3
Midnighter #8
Grifter/Midnighter #4

DC's really losing me as a fan.

[diana_fan]

Hmm, lots of interesting stuff.

I'm definitely looking forward to both Amazons Attack!, featuring Casse and Kara joining the fray, and the Teen Titans tie-in. It'll be interestng to see how well Beechen and Pfeifer have their stories straight.

But it looks like a big month for Supergirl, definitely, showing up in:

Amazons Attack!
Teen Titans
Her own book (TWO of her!)
Supergirl & the Legion of Super-Heroes
Brave and the Bold

And probably Countdown as well.

Kara's everywhere! Heh. It's a good thing that she has super-speed. :)

[Drcharles]

Wow that looks really neat,
I got the Aquaman figure in this range and I was really pleased

http://images.newsarama.com/dcnew/June07/19/pg124.BATMANCLASSIC.jpg

[EmeraldGuy32]

http://images.newsarama.com/dcnew/June07/13/BAB_Cv4_solicit.jpg
recognize that jacket and glasses? :cool:

[Spaz_Monkey]

Just wanna quickly say that BATMAN: HARLEY & IVY is one of the funniest things I've read in years! And kinda dirty, too!

[CKdoubleU]

BATMAN CONFIDENTIAL #6
Written by Andy Diggle
Art and cover by Whilce Portacio & Richard Friend
The final chapter of the inaugural arc, “Rules of Engagement,” pits the newly augmented Batman against Lex Luthor’s burgeoning LexCorp in a battle drawing the boundary lines for Gotham City.
On sale June 13 • 32 pg, FC, $2.99 US

Augmented? Can anyone please bring me up to speed on what's going on with Batman, and what 'new augmentation' he's gone through?

Hopefully, not "Power Girl" augmentation.

[foxhound09]

tons of great stuff there. cool nightwing cover

[vbartilucci]

THE AMAZING TRANSFORMATIONS OF JIMMY OLSEN TP

This ties in nicely to the heavy play Jimmy is supposed to be getting in countdown.


COUNTDOWN #47-44
"See Mary Marvel undergo a surprising transformation!"

One wonders if we'll see a retconned connection between Eclipso and the wizard Shazam?
To be honest, they tried to make Eclipso a major player villain years back, and it just didn't fly. They'll have to do something really impressive to make it work here.


THE ALL-NEW ATOM #12
"Beginning a sweeping 4-part story arc that will change the history of the Atom! Ryan Choi makes the fateful decision to proactively seek his predecessor and learn where he went at the end of IDENTITY CRISIS!"

Change the "history" of the Atom? I don't know if I like the sound of that...


BLUE BEETLE #16
"Eclipso returns in a tie-in to COUNTDOWN! What’s brought the wrathful entity back from her solar orbit? The first clues are in this issue as the Beetle faces her newest attempt to claim a human host!"

As with All New Atom, major parts of the upcoming DC events are being played out in the books that spun out of IC. And I maintain that's been the plan all along. No complaints from me - I'm loving both books.

CHECKMATE #15
EGG FU, BABY!


THE FLASH: THE FASTEST MAN ALIVE #13
"And you won’t want to miss the stunning full version of this cover — but you only can catch it when this issue races into stores!"

I won't go any farther than saying that it will NOT be Bart in that suit on that cover. As of issue 14, who the hell knows.


JSA CLASSIFIED #27
"The 2-part story concludes as Wildcat’s investigation into an underground superhuman gambling ring results in a surprising discovery about himself! "

If it wasn't for the fact that we already saw a damn good story about Wildcat and an underground fighting ring (on JLU) this would be very promising.

OUTSIDERS #48

At first I thought that was a T-sphere, but I assume that it's a device for The Thinker?


TRIALS OF SHAZAM #8
Just a couple of months more...then we can ignore this ever happened entirely.
CM3 isn't on the Countdown teaser posted, tho Cap and Mary are. Draw your own conclusions.


SUPERGIRL AND THE LEGION OF SUPER-HEROES #31
"The Dominators storyline comes to a surprising conclusion that will change the lives of the Legionnaires irrevocably!"
Oh boy...
Since the Dominator virus attacks computers, I have this terrible feeling we'll see Earth go medieval or something. No technology, cut off from the galaxy, quarantined...
Ecch.


WONDER WOMAN #10
Written by Jodi Picoult
"Jodi Picoult’s sensational run reaches its gut-wrenching finale! "

My, that was fast.



JUSTICE LEAGUE UNLIMITED #34
"Superman must deal with the greatest threat Krypton left behind: Zod! "

What, again? Geez, the guy's everywhere...

[diana_fan]

Augmented? Can anyone please bring me up to speed on what's going on with Batman, and what 'new augmentation' he's gone through?

Hopefully, not "Power Girl" augmentation.

That would require Liefeld's assistance on the title. :)

[The 'Nam]

Where is Superman Confidential?!!!

[skeletorjr]

Wow that looks really neat,
I got the Aquaman figure in this range and I was really pleased

http://images.newsarama.com/dcnew/June07/19/pg124.BATMANCLASSIC.jpg

Wow. I have to have this. I don't usually go for high-end big bucks figures, but this may have to be the exception.

[caats19]

freakin sweet nightwing cover. and it looks like flash joins a teeeam...

[IronWolf]

Nightwing is such a good Character, i'm just looking at that cover and i would love to make nightiwng as big as freeking batman in sales.

[Drcharles]

Noticed that Green Lantern bk isn't published, Damn..............
But this is a lovely cvr to Catwoman

http://www.newsarama.com/dcnew/June07/11/CTW_Cv68_solicit.jpg

Aquaman cvr looks interesting as well............

19 bks this mth, ( 2 cvrs of Justice A+B ) but thats good I've cut back as well,
Mind you, Green Arrow will be finishing..........

[Action Ace]

Where is Superman Confidential?!!!

Last I checked Superman Confidential #5 is pushed back to June 20th, so that's your fix for June.

[WineLoverBub]

Oddly enough, I have a problem with this pix:

http://www.newsarama.com/dcnew/June07/CTDW_Cv47_solicit.jpg

But absolutely no problem at all with this pix:

http://www.brokenfrontier.com/img/2005/mar/DC/JLAClassifiedCv8.jpg

I'm really not sure why... maybe the 'age' thing. IMHO, she looks like a child on the Countdown cover, but on the ICBINTJL cover she looks like a woman.

::Thinks about it:::

Yep, that's it. It also explains why I feel icky picking up an issue of Supergirl.

I agree. I don't enjoy looking at underage women with huge breasts and in almost sexual poses. If they are over 18 (or even 21) then it's okay.

What is DC trying to do here? Get the attention of teenagers? They are probably reading some Manga crap. Adults read their books, and my guess is that the older readers who are drooling over the lightning picture would probably have sex with underage girls too.

Makes me sick to my stomach...

[unytis]

It's interesting reading the complaints about the Mary Marvel cover, because I (a thirtysomething woman) didn't even notice her boobs or the 'peek' at her butt until reading the comments and then going back and looking at the picture. I'm actually impressed that she has a fairly normal body relative to many comic book women.

Maybe it's because I'm not wired to notice boobs, but my first impression of the image was the black costume, the look on her face and the position of her hands, which triggered the question: What's happening to her? Her body looks like someone being hit by magical lightning or recieving powers. I don't see anything "sexual" at all. She's wearing far more fabric than most Olympic figure skaters! I don't see what the problem is.

My thoughts exactly! I thought it was a great cover and made me wonder what was happening to her. Made me intrested in the character. If you're looking for it....you can find the "sex" in anything.;)

[unytis]

No JSofA or Green Lantern?

sad christmas:confused:

[motteditor]

CATWOMAN #68
Violence and the chaos hit home for Catwoman! Reverberations of this issue will be felt all through the DCU, starting in Countdown!

I'll be getting this anyway, but talk about a near-useless solicitation.

THE ALL-NEW ATOM #12
Beginning a sweeping 4-part story arc that will change the history of the Atom! Ryan Choi makes the fateful decision to proactively seek his predecessor and learn where he went at the end of IDENTITY CRISIS!

Might try this again. I'm a big fan of Gail's, but couldn't get into it. But I like Ray Palmer too. Worth a flip through in the store, at least.

BIRDS OF PREY #107
A final confrontation pits Spy Smasher’s Birds of Prey against Catman's Secret Six in Russia for the soul of one of DC’s most beloved heroines! Oh, and Oracle hasn’t given up on getting her team back either!

Huh. Interesting cover to this one. Hawkgirl's busy if she's in the JLA and BoP.

JUSTICE LEAGUE OF AMERICA #10
Best-selling author Brad Meltzer and superstar artist Ed Benes bring you the final chapter of "The Lightning Saga," as the villains are revealed!

Dear Lord. I knew Power Girl's supposed to be busty, but ... wow.

SUPERGIRL AND THE LEGION OF SUPER-HEROES #31
The Dominators storyline comes to a surprising conclusion that will change the lives of the Legionnaires irrevocably!

Is this meant to be an epilogue? Seems odd to have Bedard finish this story.

[AdamYJ]

Together, these four men are the Green Lanterns of Earth…but why are so many Earthmen recruited into the Corps?

Finally!

I've been wondering that forever. Now they'll actually explain it!

[paulski]

My thoughts exactly! I thought it was a great cover and made me wonder what was happening to her. Made me intrested in the character. If you're looking for it....you can find the "sex" in anything.;)
Yep, pretty much.

Gotta admit, I'm finding all the gnashing and wailing over this cover more than a little silly. Not saying people can't express their feelings about it, but, sheesh guys, keep a little perspective... :eek:

[Drink]

Eh, nothin's really sticking out for me anymore from DC Proper. Even from the books I do get. Wildstorm books, Jonah Hex and Spirit are about the only things I really give a damn about anymore. In fact, that Blue Beetle is going to tie into Countdown is making me consider dropping it.

What's the point of reading tie-ins to stuff I'm not interested in?

[JAGII]

Finally!

I've been wondering that forever. Now they'll actually explain it!

Way back when there were seven or eight GLs based on Earth (not all humans, but all on Earth), the explanation was that the next stage in cosmic evolution would come from Earth. This lead into the Millennium crossover, in which the Manhunters tried to stop the evolution from occurring.

I believe that this series has been Zero Hour-ed out, so I am also interested in an explanation.

[Kolimar]

http://images.newsarama.com/dcnew/June07/11/BMCON_Cv6_solicit.jpg

Anyone else remember a time when Batman's shadow was usually a bat-like shadow instead of lifeless cgi? :p Sometimes I get the feeling artists are growing too fond of their toys and abuse. Sigh...

[vbartilucci]

Am I the only person who has read that old Brave and the Bold issue featuring the Bat-Squad? That was also international in flavor, but that was their only appearence.

I wanna see the return of Chief Man-of-the-Bats.

[vbartilucci]

My thoughts exactly! I thought it was a great cover and made me wonder what was happening to her. Made me intrested in the character. If you're looking for it....you can find the "sex" in anything.;)
"When correctly viewed, EVERYTHING is lewd...
I could tell you things about Peter Pan,
And the Wizard of Oz, THERE'S and dirty old man!"
-Tom Lehrer, "Smut"

[Kolimar]

http://images.newsarama.com/dcnew/June07/13/CHECK_Cv15_solicit.jpg

Beautiful smile. :D I love it.

[AdamYJ]

Way back when there were seven or eight GLs based on Earth (not all humans, but all on Earth), the explanation was that the next stage in cosmic evolution would come from Earth. This lead into the Millennium crossover, in which the Manhunters tried to stop the evolution from occurring.

I believe that this series has been Zero Hour-ed out, so I am also interested in an explanation.

It was always something that just sort of detonated my willing suspension of disbelief. Every other planet has only ever had one person from that planet operating at a time. Earth gets four! Four? It just screws up the cosmic aspect of the book for me because it makes Earth look too important. Even when they're given off-Earth duties, it makes it look like the Guardians are just making special exceptions. I felt that way back during Hal's "greying hair" days and I feel that way now (I had kind of hoped that once the Corps was restarted that John and Guy would stay retired and Hal would stay dead).

They had better have a pretty amazing reason for this. Otherwise, it's just going to be obvious what the reason is: they're trying to give every fan what they want (which isn't necessarily a good idea).

[Evan Waters]

My complaint about the MM cover is that her torso seems a bit over-long. The proportions are kinda off.

[cyberv]

...Is that Barry or Wally on that Flash cover?

[CaptainCanad]

WONDER WOMAN #10
Written by Jodi Picoult
"Jodi Picoult’s sensational run reaches its gut-wrenching finale! "

My, that was fast.

Especially compared to the Heinberg run.

[santino]

It's interesting reading the complaints about the Mary Marvel cover, because I (a thirtysomething woman) didn't even notice her boobs or the 'peek' at her butt until reading the comments and then going back and looking at the picture. I'm actually impressed that she has a fairly normal body relative to many comic book women.

Maybe it's because I'm not wired to notice boobs, but my first impression of the image was the black costume, the look on her face and the position of her hands, which triggered the question: What's happening to her? Her body looks like someone being hit by magical lightning or recieving powers. I don't see anything "sexual" at all. She's wearing far more fabric than most Olympic figure skaters! I don't see what the problem is.

I know i'm jumping into this at the halfway point, but I totally agree. The first thing I noticed here was the expression on her face and the outstretched arms. Honestly, the highlight of the lightning hitting her chest (and her breasts almost starting to blend into the background), resulted in my actually paying less attention to the breasts.

I think it's a beautiful cover for any number of reasons; the black/white detail of her against a white background with only the lightning for color; the very pose and expression; the simplicity of the design itself, which makes you focus on the only actor present. All very very good, nto to mention that Benes, (whether you want to say he over-sexualizes or not) really does know how to draw attractive human figures (men and women).

Edit: My wife saw the image of the cover and her words were "Wow, that's beautiful. Who drew that?"

[frimfram]

Christos Gage writing Midnighter? BEST NEWS this side of the Wildstorm relaunch. Or, best news this side of him redeeming the Stormwatch title, at least :D

[JAGII]

It was always something that just sort of detonated my willing suspension of disbelief. Every other planet has only ever had one person from that planet operating at a time. Earth gets four! Four? It just screws up the cosmic aspect of the book for me because it makes Earth look too important. Even when they're given off-Earth duties, it makes it look like the Guardians are just making special exceptions. I felt that way back during Hal's "greying hair" days and I feel that way now (I had kind of hoped that once the Corps was restarted that John and Guy would stay retired and Hal would stay dead).

They had better have a pretty amazing reason for this. Otherwise, it's just going to be obvious what the reason is: they're trying to give every fan what they want (which isn't necessarily a good idea).

Yeah, I've let it pass, too. I was one of the few people who liked Millennium, and the three GLs wandering around Earth made sense to me during the first part of Gerard Jones's run (the Corps was disbanded and the Guardians had left to make babies, so the remaining GLs were free to do what they wanted).

And although I am a fan of all 4 human GLs (well, five if you count Charlie Vickers, and I do!), I agree with your statement about Kyle being the lone human member. I was okay with Hal being dead, especially after sacrificing his life and becoming God's super-hero. Also, I loved that John and Guy were Kyle's mentors, even if Guy was a bit too likable even then.

However, now that we've got them all back, I don't know which one I want on Earth and which ones I want in space. Hal works better on Earth than on space, as either a crack pilot or a wanderer. Guy needs to be antagonizing other heroes, although he worked just fine in the recent GLC arc. With all of his alien relationships- Katama, Myrren (sp?), the Darkstars, and the Mosaic Oa- I think John is a fine space GL.

The biggest trouble, then, is Kyle. He always seemed to be the most grounded of the GLs, despite having more power and responsibilities than the rest of them. I really feel like he's lost that in Ion; the scene with Radu helped, but the artist's commune is too secluded and might as well be deep space. Whatever their plans for him, I do hope they maintain his Earth connections.

That said, I am enjoying the current direction the GL world is taking and have high hopes for this explanation.

[pez dispenser]

Man, Fables keeps getting better and better.

Looks like I'll be picking up half a dozen Vertigo / WS books this month.

[Kidgalatea]

That's a very striking Nightwing cover. Nice one!

Blue Beetle, Birds of Prey and Amazons Attack all look pretty good too, and I like the fact Gen 13 is crossing over into Tranquility in the Wildstorm universe, I'm enjoying both of those comics. And a Harley & Ivy TBP! Christmas has come early!

However, the winner of this week has to be Checkmate. Just because....Egg-Fu!

[diana_fan]

"When correctly viewed, EVERYTHING is lewd...
I could tell you things about Peter Pan,
And the Wizard of Oz, THERE'S and dirty old man!"
-Tom Lehrer, "Smut"

I'm fairly sure that Alan Moore recently had something to say on the subject. :)

[jmcl89]

Dear Lord. I knew Power Girl's supposed to be busty, but ... wow.


Yeah, I accept how she's normally drawn, but that picture's ridiculous.

[Kolimar]

It was always something that just sort of detonated my willing suspension of disbelief. Every other planet has only ever had one person from that planet operating at a time. Earth gets four! Four? It just screws up the cosmic aspect of the book for me because it makes Earth look too important.

That's part of it. Earth is very important from a cosmic pov. Look at the LSH, Millenium, Kirby's Fourth World, Morrison's 1000000. Earth is the genetic cradle of the future and even with all the superheroes, it's always on the brink of destruction for one reason or another. There's never too many GLs for Earth. :D

Beyond that, I have a pretty simple reason for it: our species is more prone to generating brave, strong-willed, tough mother____ers. :D ;) Most other species are very lucky if they get one guy like that every generation. :)

[StripedTiger]

THE FLASH: THE FASTEST MAN ALIVE #13
Written by Mark Guggenheim
Art by Tony S. Daniel & Art Thibert
Cover by Tony S. Daniel
The Flash must make the choice he was offered at the beginning of “Full Throttle.” And you won’t want to miss the stunning full version of this cover — but you only can catch it when this issue races into stores!
On sale June 6 • 32 pg, FC, $2.99 US

If the choice is to go back to being a teenager and be Kid Flash again then I'll buy someone at DC a very large cookie...

[NovemberRose]

Please tell me that they are not going to slut up Mary Marvel like they did with Supergirl!! I love Benes's art, but what they hell is going on? Isn't she like 13 or 14 years old??

She was at least 16 in Formerly Known as the Justice League, so its fair game by now :p

Although I hope her involvement with the Super-Buddies isn't an immediate death sentence :(

Too late--they did that in the last Superbuddies miniseries.

Alternate reality!!! :mad: :p


Mary's always been HOT. :mad: :p :D

I was beginning to think I was crazy but at least someone else see's it!

And as regards to her age or whatever, she's actually like 60 or 70 if you want to be a smartass about it ;)

The only thing I don't like is Eclipso. Just not a good villian.

[nightwing878]

Glad to see people talking about the objectification of women in comics...

But, for me, the secret behind the Flash really outweighs Mary Marvel for me. It would be great to see Wally back, even for just a bit.

[christosgage]

Christos Gage writing Midnighter? BEST NEWS this side of the Wildstorm relaunch. Or, best news this side of him redeeming the Stormwatch title, at least :D

Just the one issue...but it's a fun one! ;)

CNG

[caats19]

i laugh whenever i see people say DC is over sexed. who cares.

[khuxford]

Martian Manhunter TPB - 208 pages - $19.99
Uncle Sam & The Freedom Fighters - 208 pages - $14.99

Huh?

I mean...I'm happy that I can get US&tFF for $15...but that makes no sense.

I'm all over the Martian Manhunter Showcase, though. Never bought one before...that shall be mine. :D

[AdamYJ]

That's part of it. Earth is very important from a cosmic pov. Look at the LSH, Millenium, Kirby's Fourth World, Morrison's 1000000. Earth is the genetic cradle of the future and even with all the superheroes, it's always on the brink of destruction for one reason or another. There's never too many GLs for Earth. :D

Beyond that, I have a pretty simple reason for it: our species is more prone to generating brave, strong-willed, tough mother____ers. :D ;) Most other species are very lucky if they get one guy like that every generation. :)

Well, most of that stuff was just because we needed a human POV to make the stories relatable.

I still don't buy it and don't really like it. Our planet is this big, important thing in the universe and yet we can't develop interstellar travel without reverse engineering alien technology to get it. We're so big and important, but the only people who ever seem to meet aliens in this era are superheroes and it's for hostile reasons 9 times out of 10. As much as I love this planet, I can't believe that this little blue marble in space we live on is so important. Then again, maybe I'd like to see the Earth dealt with in a way that allows for more . . . humility.

Of course, it also doesn't help that I'm not a big fan of John or Guy and didn't feel a need to have Hal back. :p

[Samy Merchi]

http://www.newsarama.com/dcnew/June07/12/SMBM_Cv36_solicit.jpg
What's wrong with the Metal Men's faces? How are you supposed to have a crush on Tina, find Mercury goofy, or be inspired by Gold's composure *if they don't have faces* to express emotion?

PETITION: GIVE THE METAL MEN THEIR REAL FACES BACK!!!!

[IvCNuB4]

They look like OMACs to me .....

[Samy Merchi]

Does Gold have...breasts?

[khuxford]

Just the one issue...but it's a fun one! ;)

CNG

I was wondering. I think Garth's first story...as a complete story...was pretty good (even if uneven from issue to issue). If Garth was off the book without much fanfare, I'd be a little annoyed...but you'd be a real good pick if it had to be done (just hope you wouldn't suffer from misplaced frustrations from Ennis fans).

That said...Garth's best title currently, for my money, is Chronicles of Wormwood.

[Sunless]

Gage on Midnighter YAY!!!

[nafannataz]

http://www.newsarama.com/dcnew/June07/12/SMBM_Cv36_solicit.jpg
What's wrong with the Metal Men's faces? How are you supposed to have a crush on Tina, find Mercury goofy, or be inspired by Gold's composure *if they don't have faces* to express emotion?

PETITION: GIVE THE METAL MEN THEIR REAL FACES BACK!!!!

They're evil, they are being controlled by Brainiac

[Samy Merchi]

Okay that explains why they don't have faces. I always lose face every time I get dominated, too. :)

[khuxford]

Augmented? Can anyone please bring me up to speed on what's going on with Batman, and what 'new augmentation' he's gone through?

Hopefully, not "Power Girl" augmentation.

Honestly, with this being an older Batman story from back in the day, I'm guessing it is, at best, something about his filling out the utility belt and, at worst, some really wacky exoskeleton that is just specifically made and used for this story.

[khuxford]

Yep, pretty much.

Gotta admit, I'm finding all the gnashing and wailing over this cover more than a little silly. Not saying people can't express their feelings about it, but, sheesh guys, keep a little perspective... :eek:

http://www.newsarama.com/dcnew/June07/CTDW_Cv47_solicit.jpg

C'mon, Paul, doesn't that look like...nevermind...I'll send it in a PM...but its a goody.

[drastic_q]

Just wanna quickly say that BATMAN: HARLEY & IVY is one of the funniest things I've read in years! And kinda dirty, too!
Yeah, it's great. They really break out of all the censorship and standards and practices that they had to work under on the cartoon. It's got a nice sleazy exploitative 70s women's prison movie vibe going on.

[Action Ace]

my DC pull list for June

Detective #833: Dini and Zatanna is a winning formula
Batman #667: Batmen Around the World AND J.H. Williams III? I can't wait
Batman Confidential #6
Nightwing #133: Nightwing: Year Minus Two
Robin #163

Action #851: Curt Swan's corpse could have drawn this faster than Adam Kubert and it would have looked a thousand times better too
Superman #664: even the fill ins can do no wrong these days
All-Star Superman #8: I'll expect the usually brilliant story
Superman/ Batman #36: UGH!!
Superman/ Batman #37: this one has potential
Supergirl #18
Amazing Transformations of Jimmy Olsen

Countdown #47, 46, 45 and 44
All-New Atom #12: the twenty third search for Ray Palmer starts here
Amazons Attack #3
Aquaman #53: #50 better be real good, I didn't like the Sub Diego stuff
Brave & the Bold #4: great book, but why is precious space being taken up by the biggest piece of garbage in DC's stable? not Supergirl, Lobo!
Blue Beetle #16
Checkmate #15: still not picking up the Outsiders issues
GLC #13: Mogo!
Flash #13: Barry!
Green Lantern Sinestro Corps Special #1: oh yes!
Justice League of America #10
Justice #12: hopefully Justice II is just around the corner
JLA Classified #39
JSA Classified #27
Shazam: Monster Society of Evil #4: I'll miss this one too
Trials of Shazam #8
Showcase Presents Batgirl Volume 1: the one true Batgirl :D
Showcase Presents Martian Manhunter Volume 1
Supergirl and the Legion of Super-Heroes #31
Teen Titans #48
Wonder Woman #10: I like this new rapid fire schedule
Original Encyclopedia of Comic Book Heroes Volume 2: Wonder Woman

Justice League Unlimited #34: ZOD!!!
Legion in the 31st Century: substitutes you say
Teen Titans Go! #44


No Astro City so Wildstorm is shut out


forty items, a good month

[unytis]

My complaint about the MM cover is that her torso seems a bit over-long. The proportions are kinda off.


Yeah, well everyones proportions are off these days.:rolleyes: Including mine. I have been told I have a long torso:p :D

[von Doom, M.D.]

I had to do a double-take when I saw that Fables cover, because at first I thought it was Bluebeard coming out of the Witching Well

[diana_fan]

Yeah, it's great. They really break out of all the censorship and standards and practices that they had to work under on the cartoon. It's got a nice sleazy exploitative 70s women's prison movie vibe going on.

Heh. Sounds cool, and how can you go wrong with Dini & Timm writing and drawing Harley and Ivy?

I'm all over this.

[Scorned1]

no frakking WildCats from Wildstorm? damn you Jim Lee.

I guess I'll have Countdown to look forward to.

Why the hell is Pat Lee still drawing? ;)

[astronato]

I know that people desperately want to see my pull list. So here it is Dan ;)

DETECTIVE COMICS #833
BATMAN #667
BATMAN CONFIDENTIAL #6
ACTION COMICS #851 - man, i love 3-D. this is gonna be fun
SUPERMAN #664
ALL STAR SUPERMAN #8
AMAZONS ATTACK #3 - Is it wrong to hate blonde wondergirl so much?
GREEN LANTERN CORPS #13 - I wish DC would put Keith Champagne on this book quick
GREEN LANTERN: SINESTRO CORPS SPECIAL #1
JUSTICE #12 - Even if Alex Ross is done, I want to see Jim Krueger & Doug Braithwaite continue this version of the DCU w/ a sequel
JONAH HEX #20 - Still DC's best book
SHAZAM: THE MONSTER SOCIETY OF EVIL #4 - I want more of this too. I need it
SUPERGIRL AND THE LEGION OF SUPER-HEROES #31
THE SPIRIT #7 - DC's other Best book ;)
WONDER WOMAN #10 - I wish Mark Waid or Kurt Busiek were writing WW
JUSTICE LEAGUE UNLIMITED #34 - Zod!
THE LEGION OF SUPER-HEROES IN THE 31st CENTURY #3
LOVELESS #20

THE AMAZING TRANSFORMATIONS OF JIMMY OLSEN TP
SHOWCASE PRESENTS: BATGIRL VOL. 1 TP
SHOWCASE PRESENTS: MARTIAN MANHUNTER VOL. 1 TP
THE ORIGINAL ENCYCLOPEDIA OF COMIC BOOK HEROES VOLUME 2: WONDER WOMAN TP
JACK KIRBY’S FOURTH WORLD OMNIBUS VOL. 2 HC
SHAZAM! ACTION FIGURES

maybe......
UNCLE SAM AND THE FREEDOM FIGHTERS TP
THE HIGHWAYMEN and ARMY@LOVE - look interesting

Greatest cover ever!.........
http://images.newsarama.com/dcnew/June07/12/SM_ATJO_TPB_solicit.jpg

[Hokeyboy]

http://www.newsarama.com/dcnew/June07/12/SMBM_Cv36_solicit.jpg

Who do I complain to about the oversexualization of THE METAL MEN??? :mad:

Mercury clearly has a penis-face, and the slit opening on Platinum's face makes the comics nerd inside me feel "icky", like when Superboy and Wonder Girl did the hot sloppy in that Teen Titans issue a year ago.

MY GOD!!


I just had a brainstorm... David Cronenberg writing Metal Men, as an exploration of where the organic meets the artificial, flesh and machine, living and synthetic. That would be brilliant.

I -- I uh---

I just had one... :o

[Amoebas]

Some very cool stuff in June.

I'm not one for the statues, but the PG & Huntress is beautiful.

Showcase: J'Onn J'onzz - YES!!!!!

So glad there's a variant to get to JLofA instead of that Turner dreck.

The only negative I really see is the huge Supergirl push that's going on. I simply am not a fan of the current version (I want to be, but I can't find anything likeable about her in all the books she's been in so far). Unlike the new Terra (who I do like after only 1 issue). Wasn't her book supposed to start this month?

[venus_redsca]

That's part of it. Earth is very important from a cosmic pov. Look at the LSH, Millenium, Kirby's Fourth World, Morrison's 1000000. Earth is the genetic cradle of the future and even with all the superheroes, it's always on the brink of destruction for one reason or another. There's never too many GLs for Earth. :D

Beyond that, I have a pretty simple reason for it: our species is more prone to generating brave, strong-willed, tough mother____ers. :D ;) Most other species are very lucky if they get one guy like that every generation. :)

Careful there, you'll get a bunch of people who feel guilty about being human all worked up.

[silverbolt]

But this is a lovely cvr to Catwoman

http://www.newsarama.com/dcnew/June07/11/CTW_Cv68_solicit.jpg


you know ive been wondering not one person has said how overtly perversely sexual this image is.

I mean come on Catwoman