SPIDER-MAN INDIA #1

[MattBrady]

<a href="http://www.newsarama.com/Marvel/Spider-_Man/India/IMAGE5.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="http://www.newsarama.com/Marvel/Spider-_Man/India/IMAGE5_t.jpg" width="175" height="251" hspace="1" border="0" align="right"></a>Marvel has provided Newsarama with the first seven pages of <b>Spider-Man: India #1</b> due in stores on November 17th.

The new series, conceived and created by Indian creators (and published in India by Gotham Entertainment Group) will create an entirely new, indigenous Spider-Man for India. From Newsarama’s earlier coverage (http://newsarama.com/forums/showthread.php?threadid=14583):

“Gotham Entertainment Group, is the South Asian publishing licensee for Marvel and DC Comics. Gotham currently publishes local editions of numerous American comics in India in English, Hindi, Bengali, Tamil and Malayalam languages,” Sharad Devarajan, President and CEO of Gotham Entertainment Group explained to Newsarama.

<a href="http://www.newsarama.com/Marvel/SM_India/SMINDIA001001.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="http://www.newsarama.com/Marvel/SM_India/SMINDIA001001_t.jpg" width="160" height="243" border="0" align="left"></a> “Since we first started Gotham, we have always dreamed of fully integrating a western superhero character into the Indian market in this revolutionary way. It is one thing to translate existing US comics, but this project is truly what we call a ‘transcreation,’ where we actually reinvent the origin of a property like Spider-Man so that he is an Indian boy growing up in Mumbai and dealing with local problems and challenges. We have always believed that the superhero relates to a ‘universal psyche’ already firmly established in India through centuries of mythological stories depicting gods and heroes with supernatural abilities. This project is the true culmination of such a synthesis allowing us to interweave the ethnic & mythological themes of India into Spider-Man’s very origins and powers.

“Though we will remain true to the underlining mythos of Spider-Man, which is epitomized in the phrase ‘With Great Power Comes Great Responsibility,’ the character will be reinvented so his powers, problems and costume are more integrated with Indian culture. Unlike the US origin which is deeply rooted in science, the Indian version is more rooted in magic and mythology. This version of Spider-Man will gain his powers from ancient mystic in order to combat the evil threat of the Green Goblin, who will also be reinvented as a modern day Indian demon from myth.”

Indian-based Jeevan J. Kang is taking on the entire creative process including the writing, penciling, inking and coloring for the first four-part series. “Jeevan is Gotham Studios’ Studio Chief and unquestionably one of the most creative individuals I have ever had the privilege of knowing,” Devarajan said.

The four issue miniseries will carry a $2.99 cover price.

Click on the thumbnails for larger versions.

<center><a href="http://www.newsarama.com/Marvel/SM_India/SMINDIA001002.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="http://www.newsarama.com/Marvel/SM_India/SMINDIA001002_t.jpg" alt="page 2" width="160" height="243" border="0"></a><a href="http://www.newsarama.com/Marvel/SM_India/SMINDIA001003.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="http://www.newsarama.com/Marvel/SM_India/SMINDIA001003_t.jpg" alt="page 3" width="160" height="243" hspace="2" border="0"></a><a href="http://www.newsarama.com/Marvel/SM_India/SMINDIA001004.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="http://www.newsarama.com/Marvel/SM_India/SMINDIA001004_t.jpg" alt="page 4" width="160" height="243" border="0"></a>

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<center><a href="http://www.mycomicshop.com/index.cfm?ad=322"><img src="http://www.newsarama.com/images/ads/wolverine.gif" width="468" height="60" border="0"></a></center>

[Hdefined]

I just don't have much interest in Indian culture, so I'm not really interested in this.

[AlexLothos]

The art is beautiful and so far I like the pacing of the story. It's like another Ultimate Spider-man, only from an Indian perspective. I'm actually interested in reading more.

*shakes fist* Darn you 7 page previews!!! :p

[Hannibal King]

The art is cool as is the premise of the book, but do we really need anymore Spider-Man books.

For all of you out there who want a good dose of Spidey, read Amazing. Strazynski is the best writer to come down the pike in ages to handle Spidey and his crew.

[comixcollctr]

This is one of the dumbest idea Quesada ever green lit.No one is interested here and no one has the dough to buy it there.Great idea,a book marketed for a third world country.They barely have money for food.And all the characters are anglified.it's terrible.

[sketchykg]

Originally posted by comixcollctr
This is one of the dumbest idea Quesada ever green lit.No one is interested here and no one has the dough to buy it there.Great idea,a book marketed for a third world country.They barely have money for food.And all the characters are anglified.it's terrible.

Wow, you don't know anything about India.

[Nightdawn]

comixcollctr
This is one of the dumbest idea Quesada ever green lit.No one is interested here and no one has the dough to buy it there.Great idea,a book marketed for a third world country.They barely have money for food.And all the characters are anglified.it's terrible.

Actually, I've heard that there are a lot of pre-orders at my local comic shop, my town and a few around it have very large indian populations.

At least it's not written by Bendis. :D

[Userama]

Originally posted by comixcollctr
This is one of the dumbest idea Quesada ever green lit.No one is interested here and no one has the dough to buy it there.Great idea,a book marketed for a third world country.They barely have money for food.And all the characters are anglified.it's terrible.


I know I'm retarded for taking time out to respond to mindless internet trolls, but...

As someone who's lived in India and in the States, I would point out that 1)There are areas of India where the per capita income is greater than in many low-income areas of the united states. Inexplicably, entertainment media still exists in low-income areas of the United States. Quesada:Please remove all of Marvel's comics from Detroit, immediately! 2) Comic culture is huge in India; comic strips like Mandrake the Magician and the Phantom have been staples of the Indian cultural psyche for generations, begining with British colonization.

Escapist entertainment is more marketable and more helpful in low-income areas as well. And I'm baffled that any of you are complaining about this; it's made for Indian audiences (who will love it) and it's being translated here in the hopes that its novelty and charm will cause interest. If, as a previous poster said, you aren't particularly interested in Indian culture, that's fine. But to suggest that this was in any way a bad idea is just absurd.

And now I will go bang my head against the wall for actually being shocked that I found ignorant, racist thoughts on an internet message board...you'd think I'd know better by now.

art and story look great. I will buy this.

[Userama]

And why hasn't anyone made one outsourcing joke yet? You guys are so not on the ball.

[Bakema NL]

Art looks cool, but when I saw the first pics, with Spidey's loincloth I couldn't stop laughing which is quite silly, because the premise of a superhero with skintight spandex is laughable in itself. Of course it was originally aimed at another market. But other people can enjoy it too of course. I'll pass on this one, sticking to the original.

[ghostly1]

You know, I think I'm going to give the series a try. I don't know a whole lot about Indian culture, so I hope at least the references make sense to someone who lives there, and if so, well, hopefully I'll learn a bit and be entertained at the same time. Art looks nice.

[Idiosylph]

I think this looks really interesting. I don't think that I'd buy it on a regular basis, just because I'm not hugely into Spider-Man anyway, but I think that this a good idea. Seeing Spider-Man (or any sort of hero for that matter) who actually fits into the Indian culutre will probably really appeal to the Indian market and make this a good seller for Marvel. So often characters from any non-Western culture are either stereotypes or are fitted to Western culture.

[tralfaz]

the art is nice

[Krishna Sadasivam]

I'm curious to see how this title will do overseas. As my wife and I will be visiting Mumbai, India by the end of November, I'll be able to get some firsthand glimpses and reactions from friends and family regarding the title.

-Krishna

[Naldo]

Originally posted by comixcollctr
This is one of the dumbest idea Quesada ever green lit.No one is interested here and no one has the dough to buy it there.Great idea,a book marketed for a third world country.They barely have money for food.And all the characters are anglified.it's terrible.

Wow, what an incredibly ignorant comment. There ARE some people here interested in this book, maybe not you.

Plus, with more than 1Billion people in India, I think it's a safe bet that there are at least a few that aren't scrounging for grain in the mud.

If you don't like it, that's cool, but you might want to ease up on the absolute and racist statements.

[tgail]

Originally posted by Userama
And why hasn't anyone made one outsourcing joke yet? You guys are so not on the ball.

Damn! I was too slow! You beat me to the joke.

Now we know Quesada's true motivation behind launching this title! Going overseas for cheap comics labor. What an evil, evil thing to do! I can't believe it!!! haha!

[tgail]

Originally posted by Naldo
Plus, with more than 1Billion people in India, I think it's a safe bet that there are at least a few that aren't scrounging for grain in the mud.


No kidding. Because of their growing tech industry, they've got a small, but thriving middle class that's only growing by the day. Much to the dismay of some people I know. But that's a whole other conversation...

But there's definitely oodles of potential readers over there. That's for sure.

[Gordon McAlpin]

Originally posted by comixcollctr
This is one of the dumbest idea Quesada ever green lit.No one is interested here and no one has the dough to buy it there.Great idea,a book marketed for a third world country.They barely have money for food.And all the characters are anglified.it's terrible.

God, where do people like you come from? And how do you uncle-father and mother-aunt pay for your internet access?

[avengingtitan]

Originally posted by Gordon McAlpin
God, where do people like you come from? And how do you uncle-father and mother-aunt pay for your internet access?

Best Incest ZING ever.



But seriously i dont care about this book at all i dont need another book about spiderman, and it has nothing to do with it being an indian based book, I only read 2 spiderman titles (amazing and Ultimate). So im not going to read this.

[twistandshout]

Wow.
Wow.
I would have thought that since this was a comic book, and for the measly price of $2.99 (well, not measly, but it's sure far less than that $49.99 price that most are willing to pay for a hardcover TPB of single issues that they already own), this comic would have at least been worthy of a "check it out, see what it's like" status.

I'm definitely going to check this out, and I'm not even one of the people highly interested in Indian culture, or from there, or planning to visit there anytime soon. I just think that this looks like a book that, at a total of four whopping issues, should be supported. This is a whole new endeavour that Marvel is reaching out with, and I think it deserves to at least be given a try.

I really thought that this would have been getting more "really intrigued" feedback. I mean, comics mythology is based around mysticism and more supernatural overtones, so India seems like the perfect place to introduce more US superheroes.

[Bakema NL]

Originally posted by twistandshout
Wow.
Wow.
I would have thought that since this was a comic book, and for the measly price of $2.99 (well, not measly, but it's sure far less than that $49.99 price that most are willing to pay for a hardcover TPB of single issues that they already own), this comic would have at least been worthy of a "check it out, see what it's like" status.

I'm definitely going to check this out, and I'm not even one of the people highly interested in Indian culture, or from there, or planning to visit there anytime soon. I just think that this looks like a book that, at a total of four whopping issues, should be supported. This is a whole new endeavour that Marvel is reaching out with, and I think it deserves to at least be given a try.

I really thought that this would have been getting more "really intrigued" feedback. I mean, comics mythology is based around mysticism and more supernatural overtones, so India seems like the perfect place to introduce more US superheroes.

Been reading the Valiant/Green lantern thread? :)
What I spent my money on are my concerns only. And I have the dough for it, no problem. And yes, I'd rather spend it on a hardcover with stories I already have than on this Spiderman India book I don't care about. Finally I can read those Magnus stories as they were meant to be read, the pockets they were in over here have been read over and over again, time for something new to replace them.

[Charlie Hustle]

mediocre artwork. Bad lightsources and poor lineweight. I'd be interested in reading it through just out of the curiosity of how they'd translate it to another drastically different culture. nothing wrong with diversity to reasonable degrees. i have noticed over the last few years an attention deficit disorder with marvel not following projects (epic) so i hope this is different and the people there like it. My main question of course is why spiderman needs to be adapted instead of simply creating a native character there. The obvious answer would seemingly be the Eurocentric lack of interest in non-american or european cultures.

[Charlie Hustle]

while his comments were pretty dumb I think India is considered a third world country, no?

http://www.ccnr.org/third_world_nukes.html

just the first google result that came up but i'm pretty sure they count as 3rd world.

[Hebime]

Originally posted by comixcollctr
Where was the racism in my statement?

OK, I'm going to try to use the shortest words possible....
(try dictionary.com if any of them stump you...)

You're statment was filled with ignorant, stereotypical thinking. During the Reign of the Supermen, did you post about how stupid it was to have a black Superman character(Steel), because everybody knows black people don't read and even if they did, they would only want to read about chicken and watermelon.

Because that was the basic slant of your rant about Spider-Man India.
You are not the target audience. There are probably more Indian comic fans than there are American fans.


You don't like it. Fine. But you seem so wounded by this book's exisitance.

Why?
What is so wrong with your life and you little world that the existance of a Spider-Man book made for Indian comic fans can hurt you so?

Suprise, there are alot of folks in the States interested in this book. So come down from Magic Fanboy Land and join us in the real world. It's much nicer.

[blade]

Originally posted by Charlie Hustle
while his comments were pretty dumb I think India is considered a third world country, no?

http://www.ccnr.org/third_world_nukes.html

just the first google result that came up but i'm pretty sure they count as 3rd world.

They are a third world country, but like most developing countries, India has a small middle class population who live an affluent western style life, owning cars, mobile phones, DVD players etc.

It is this community (numbering in the tens of millions) that Marvel are trying to capture, since if even a tiny amount of this market becomes interested in modern comics, Marvel will have gained a foothold in a country where the comic industry has a future.

[Erik K]

This is one of the more interesting ideas Quesada ever green lit. Not everyone is interested here and some people lack the dough to buy it there. Great idea,a book marketed for a third world country. They have a large entertainment market and Bollywood produces more films than Hollywood every year. And all the characters are drawn by an Indian artist, which provides an illustrator with insight into the culture. Some people think it's terrible, but the response on this board shows a group of generally open minds.

With a little editing and some fact checking, it sounds pretty good.

[comixcollctr]

Don't be bunch of hypocrites.I'd bet anything you guys laugh your asses off when you see steotypical portrayal of these people on TV or in movies.The next time you laugh at Apu on the Simpsons or watch Van Wilder you are contributing to the racial steotype and being a racist yourselves.

[gwangung]

Originally posted by comixcollctr
Don't be bunch of hypocrites.I'd bet anything you guys laugh your asses off when you see steotypical portrayal of these people on TV or in movies.The next time you laugh at Apu on the Simpsons or watch Van Wilder you are contributing to the racial steotype and being a racist yourselves.

Who you talking about, white boy?:D

Methinks you are making WAAAYYYYY too many assumptions about who you're talking to (and what they like and don't like...).

[Charlie Hustle]

Originally posted by comixcollctr
I made no assumptions.4 or 5 of my posts have been removed by the moderator.What kind of forum is this?cencorship is very un-american.Assholes!

i'm always amazed especially on sites like this. a site speaks about the evils of censorship or movements to pass laws or decisions that will hurt the ability of comic stores to sell what some deem "objectionable content", then that same site turns around and restricts certain types of posts. It's amazing

Many of the posts in this thread have been false and/or dumb, so people have responded and pointed out why. That's how the issue is resolved. Discussion and diversity are the only solution to keeping more people from thinking narrow mindedly. It's the only way throughout history we've had progress in ANYTHINg. Resticting discussion to such a select few perspectives is horribly counterproductive. Now to the people deleting these posts, what chance do we have of convincing somebody that they're wrong if you don't allow them to talk in the first place? Then they'll just get in a huff, say they were censored, and take it as proof they had a point in the first place.

[MattBrady]

>i'm always amazed especially on sites like this. a site speaks about the evils of censorship or movements to pass laws or decisions that will hurt the ability of comic stores to sell what some deem "objectionable content", then that same site turns around and restricts certain types of posts. It's amazing<

Apples and oranges. Removing an offensive post and the fallout of said offenseive post is more akin to not allowing someone to yell "Fire" in a crowded movie theater, rather than a limitation of personal expression. If that person comes back and argues its their right to yell "fire" in a movie theater, well, what we have there is a difference of opinion.

>That's how the issue is resolved. Discussion and diversity are the only solution to keeping more people from thinking narrow mindedly<

And I agree - had the post been made in a manner that was somewhat rational, and open to discussion and further conversation, we would not be having <i>this</i> discussion. But, the posts were made in a manner that was insulting to a large group of people, including other members of this board, and when he was called on it he made a post which was even more insulting to the same group of people, <i>including</i> members of this board. Let that last part sink in.

I've always been a huge advocate of the idea that the best arguement against a bad idea is a better idea. That's not what we had here. Just because the board is here does not mean that it has to tolerate everyone with a keyboard and internet connection typing whatever they please, no matter who they may be insulting or how inflammatroy their message may be.

>Now to the people deleting these posts, what chance do we have of convincing somebody that they're wrong if you don't allow them to talk in the first place? Then they'll just get in a huff, say they were censored, and take it as proof they had a point in the first place.<

When the comments the person is making are borderline racist, and amazingly insensitive to a large population of people, and apparently coming from a bigoted point of view (his since deleted comment about cab drivers, etc...), the point does not come down to one of trying to explain and discuss, it comes down to one of doing what is best for the board. Deleting the comments, and the angry feedback that resulted in response to them was what I deemed necessary for the nature of the comments, the direction the "discussion" was going (a mildly offenseive comment was followed by one with racist overtones), and again, what is best for the board, that is, the prevention of this thread from dissolving into a racial flame-fest. I've had two other threads turn that way about <b>Spider-Man India</b>, I've no reason for a third.

MattB

[Erik K]

Matt, moderating this messy stuff must be a real pain sometimes. Maybe, instead of such carefully thought out responses, you should simply institute a "Matt is Always Right" rule. Will save you time in the long run :) I agree with and understand your points, and this is your sandbox. Someone complaining that an inflammatory comment has been censored needs to remember that no other major media (I'm thinking TV, newspapers) are going to allow that sort of speech either.

I am more interested in seeing this now that I've seen the 7 page preview. I am hoping that the differences will run deeper than some clever name changes for the location (Bhim and Maya, heh). I hope to see a deeper connection to Indian culture and not an attempt to present a familiar tale with a light patina of cultural variation.

Of course, I'm not the target audience. The Indian audience has its own tastes, and I hope that there are no big concessions to the American audience in terms of content or style. This huge audience deserves something aimed to them and without any worries about flame-happy U.S. fans spoiling it for them.

[President Kang]

Originally posted by MattBrady
> the prevention of this thread from dissolving into a racial flame-fest. I've had two other threads turn that way about <b>Spider-Man India</b>, I've no reason for a third.


Yeah, I know. and I agree. But can we still make fun of comixcollctr for being an inbred freakin moron?

Ok, one more.


Originally posted by comixcollctr
This is one of the dumbest idea Quesada ever green lit.No one is interested here and no one has the dough to buy it there.Great idea,a book marketed for a third world country.They barely have money for food.


<B>HAHAHAHHAHAHAHAHAHHHA </B>

oh man. You suck so much, buddy. hahahhaah.

Seriously people we shouldn't destroy all these trolls. Only a special retard like this comes along once in awhile. We should nurture this. Its comedy gold, I tells ya.

[notmertz]

I'm assuming folks probably aren't thinking when they use "retarded" or "retard", but please know that it is an offensive term.

If someone is being insensitive or appear to be speaking out of ignorance or prejudice, perhaps we could say that instead.

[Hookworm]

Originally posted by notmertz
I'm assuming folks probably aren't thinking when they use "retarded" or "retard", but please know that it is an offensive term.

If someone is being insensitive or appear to be speaking out of ignorance or prejudice, perhaps we could say that instead.

Oh God, now we're gonna have EVERYONE coming on here searching for something in one of these posts that "wronged them" in some way so that they can whine and complain. Yes, comixcollctr was being racist and offensive to those of Indian heritage but that doesn't mean we need everyone coming on here complaining about comments that clearly are not meant in an offensive way and are generally used in everyday life.

[Raphael]

Originally posted by ghostly1
You know, I think I'm going to give the series a try.

Me, too. After checking out those 7 pages, it looks like this Spidey will be the closest version we'll have of Stan and Steve's original character. Goodbye Jenkins and JMS and Bendis cuz I am all over this! Face it, Babuji, you just hit the jackpot!

...insert a big fat smiley face here...

[Pupasweet]

Powers that be keep on selling this thing (which looks halfway decent by the way) as some dramatic innovation that has not been tried before. Does anyone else remember the Spider-Man manga?

http://www.spiderfan.org/comics/title/spiderman_manga.html

[J -]

Strangely enough I think I enjoyed those seven pages more than I´ve enjoyed a Spider-Man comic in a long time, but then again I am mexican and probably don´t know how to read because I spend my day riding my horse and drinking tequila, right comixcollctr?

J

[J -]

Originally posted by comixcollctr
The next time you laugh at Apu on the Simpsons... you are contributing to the racial steotype and being a racist yourselves.
It´s one thing to laugh at a character presented in a humoristic way in a TV show that´s a parody of today´s society.
Now, actually beliving that real people think, act and are the same as a cartoon character is the most ridicously ignorant thing one can do.

J

[Nakedmanatee]

Originally posted by Hookworm
Oh God, now we're gonna have EVERYONE coming on here searching for something in one of these posts that "wronged them" in some way so that they can whine and complain. Yes, comixcollctr was being racist and offensive to those of Indian heritage but that doesn't mean we need everyone coming on here complaining about comments that clearly are not meant in an offensive way and are generally used in everyday life.

I know it's the new cool to use the word retarded, but that doesn't mean it's not offensive. (In fact, it's the instant sense of "look at me, I'm on the edge, I'm politically incorrect!" that gives it a decent cache.) It's a descriptive that people use when they want to describe something or someone as being so stupid they have a mental disability. I know I'm not going to get anywhere with this because to understand this you have to have a certain degree of empathy. Because make no mistake about it, when you use it, you're making fun of handicapped people, and arguably, a segment of the population that really can't fight back. Now whatever, it's America, make fun of what you want, just don't pretend that it's harmless and that it doesn't have an effect on other people.

Flame on, people.

--Dave

[Stuart]

Originally posted by Pupasweet
Powers that be keep on selling this thing (which looks halfway decent by the way) as some dramatic innovation that has not been tried before. Does anyone else remember the Spider-Man manga?

http://www.spiderfan.org/comics/title/spiderman_manga.html

Thanks for bringing him up. People who have put down the idea of an Indian Spider-Man and asked why they don't just create a new Indian hero have missed a couple of points.

First, India has dozens of home grown superhero characters from companies like Raj Comics (one of whom, Nagraj, teamed up with both Spidey and some of DC's finest in an unauthorised cross-over in the 1980s). There is definite interest in superhero comics over there.

Second, India isn't alone in wanting to have their own version of the web-slinger. There's been a Dutch Spiderman, two takes on a Japanese Spider-Man (manga and live action TV), and an unauthorised Turkish Spider-Man. Sometimes a character is so well known and liked that people just want to have their own local brand. Superman has also had an Indian incarnation (an unlicensed movie version), and there's even been a Turkish Captain America!

In each country, it wasn't an American idea to create a local version of the given character, it was someone living there who wanted this. They could have just created a brand new local hero and often they did, but they also wanted to have a friendly Spider-Man (or Superman, or Cap) for their neighbourhood.

[comixcollctr]

Originally posted by Hookworm
Oh God, now we're gonna have EVERYONE coming on here searching for something in one of these posts that "wronged them" in some way so that they can whine and complain. Yes, comixcollctr was being racist and offensive to those of Indian heritage but that doesn't mean we need everyone coming on here complaining about comments that clearly are not meant in an offensive way and are generally used in everyday life.

How is using words like retard or inbred not meant to be offensive.If you use words like these in your everyday life you need to reexamine yourself before calling others names.

[comixcollctr]

Originally posted by J -
It´s one thing to laugh at a character presented in a humoristic way in a TV show that´s a parody of today´s society.
Now, actually beliving that real people think, act and are the same as a cartoon character is the most ridicously ignorant thing one can do.

J

But it's not wrong to have a non indian doing the voice of an indian character in stereotypical fashion and laughing at it?

[BurgundyTears]

Well, that looks quite nice. Hopefully it will help marvel broading their market a bit. :)

[Erik K]

Thanks for that image from the Indian super-hero crossover. It looks like a blast.

As for Turkish versions, it seems that Turkey lacks agreements to international copyright rules,and is constantly doing cheapie rip-offs. The Turkish Wizard of Oz plays regularly here in Austin, and is an astoundingly funny and inept piece of rip-off (or homage, your choice). And while I haven't seen it, the Turkish Star Wars is supposed to be simply insane in its "price-of-lunch" budgeted glory. I can only assume that there's good fun in reading the comic rip-offs, if you can find them.

At least this version has Marvel's blessing.

On an unrelated note, have you ever watched someone dig themself into a hole and then violently defend the hole rather than simply crawling out? Just a random thought, not commenting on anything in particular here, most likely...

[Darth Presley]

I'm interested to know if Marvel is making any of the Indian versions of this available here in the states - particularly for shops in those areas that have a large Indian population. Would those neighborhoods prefer the original Indian version or the translated English version?

This could be a better more targeted outreach promotion than Free Comic Book Day. Of course, we have to have a marketing department and shop owners who are willing to try this.

[Bakema NL]

Originally posted by Darth Presley
I'm interested to know if Marvel is making any of the Indian versions of this available here in the states - particularly for shops in those areas that have a large Indian population. Would those neighborhoods prefer the original Indian version or the translated English version?

This could be a better more targeted outreach promotion than Free Comic Book Day. Of course, we have to have a marketing department and shop owners who are willing to try this.

I live in the Netherlands and mentioned the comic to a Pakistani colleague today. He would really want to read it, not in English, but Indian.

[FIG]

I'm mexican but I think this is a silly idea, you know, to bastardize a character simply to try and sell him to indian people? I wouldn't expect or even want to see Spawn with a sombrero or Captain America with a mustache and a burrito. This idea is LAME! Marvel should try and give Indian people their own hero. Hire Indian creators and fund their creator owned books rather than messing with an established character. I'd line up to read and buy an indian character rather than supporting this hogwash.

[Charlie Hustle]

Originally posted by Nakedmanatee
I know it's the new cool to use the word retarded, but that doesn't mean it's not offensive. (In fact, it's the instant sense of "look at me, I'm on the edge, I'm politically incorrect!" that gives it a decent cache.) It's a descriptive that people use when they want to describe something or someone as being so stupid they have a mental disability. I know I'm not going to get anywhere with this because to understand this you have to have a certain degree of empathy. Because make no mistake about it, when you use it, you're making fun of handicapped people, and arguably, a segment of the population that really can't fight back. Now whatever, it's America, make fun of what you want, just don't pretend that it's harmless and that it doesn't have an effect on other people.

Flame on, people.

--Dave

I'm offended by forum nudity AND my father was mauled to death by a mentally handicapped manatee while deep sea snorkeling. Please change both parts of your name. Also the key to responding to name calling is not changing the people who do name-calling but deciding if it has any palpable effect. This is not the n-word in reconstruction era south, this is not a word used to reinforce systematic racism, so the “harm” you’re speaking of is beyond minimal. Retarded people are not the subject of any widespreading persecution or slavery, and you’re greatly exaggerating to make your point.

[Hookworm]

Originally posted by comixcollctr
How is using words like retard or inbred not meant to be offensive.If you use words like these in your everyday life you need to reexamine yourself before calling others names.

First off I don't need morons like you telling me I should re-examine my life. If I say a word that offends someone, well, quite frankly I don't particularly give a shit, but at least I'm consistent in that way. YOU on the otherhand find it perfectly reasonable to label Indian people with stereotypes and insult and belittle them, but find retard and incest to be highly offensive. Oh wait, I get it, because those two insults were aimed at YOU. It's okay to be bigoted towards other people but not to you. So you're not just a racist, but you're a hypocritical, ignorant racist. Good one. Tell me how that turns out for you buddy.

[Hookworm]

Originally posted by comixcollctr
But it's not wrong to have a non indian doing the voice of an indian character in stereotypical fashion and laughing at it?

No, it isn't because it isn't making fun of Indian people, it's making fun of the fact that this stereotype actually exists. You notice, Apu is labeled with all these stereotypes by the society around him but he is actually quite smarter than everyone else. See, it's a satire, but to understand those you generally need some degree of intelligence and I guess that's your poblem right there.

[comixcollctr]

Originally posted by Hookworm
First off I don't need morons like you telling me I should re-examine my life. If I say a word that offends someone, well, quite frankly I don't particularly give a shit,

I made no appologies for what I said.You on the other hand climbed up on your moral high horse and point a finger at me?Since you don't give a shit if you offend someone,What makes you better than me?

[comixcollctr]

Originally posted by Hookworm
No, it isn't because it isn't making fun of Indian people

Why don't you ask some indian people what they think about the character?

[OcCaM]

Hmmm torn on this one.

On the one hand, the current spidey titles pretty much run from sucky to bland. When Nu-Marvel first appeared the one change I really liked was the Spidey titles. JMS's spidey turned out to be crappy after the Morlun story (ok the Happy Bday story was ok.) Jenkin's Spidey was actually more interesting but that fizzled with the manga wannabe on it and the over long story arcs started. And while newcomer Marvel Knights Spidey is an okay title and the only one I'm enjoying, I'm just going through the motions on it, there's no magic there.

So, I may try this just to actually get a Spidey fix that I can enjoy!

On the other hand, my personal experiences with the Indian culture (based on my college days) is that they are a bunch of homophobes and I really don't want to support their country in any way shape or form. On the other hand a lot can change in a decade or so. I doubt it though. Plus, it irks me thinking how many customer service jobs that my friends have lost to overseas there. (And the even more annoying phone coversations with creditors that come from India and their annoying little accents.)

Still, I try not to let personal get in the way of a good story, or I wouldn't be enjoying certain writers who I know are homophobic and/or just plain idiots. (No names.)

Hmmm and that artwork is killer. Ok, since amazon has a trade of this listed, I'll wait and see and get the trade if it turns out to get some good reviews. Maybe it can do the mystical aspects better than JMS! :)

[Hookworm]

Originally posted by comixcollctr
I made no appologies for what I said.You on the other hand climbed up on your moral high horse and point a finger at me?Since you don't give a shit if you offend someone,What makes you better than me?

I never said I was better than you. I said people need to stop whining about "political incorrectness". If anything, I'm saying you should have the right to be politically incorrect. Granted, I did not agree with your racist statements, but I didn't say I was better than you. And believe me, I NEVER, EVER, climbed up on a "moral horse." Good god, you'd be hard-pressed to find someone with LESS morals or ethics that me. I'm an immoral, tasteless asshole. But I never tried to clame otherwise. You on the otherhand insulted Indian people but got offended when someone called you retarded. I have no problem calling people retrarded but I don't whien and complain if people call me retarded. Either be conistently immoral or not at all. You are the one who seems to be hopping on and off his moral high horse.

[J -]

Originally posted by comixcollctr
But it's not wrong to have a non indian doing the voice of an indian character in stereotypical fashion and laughing at it?
If it is meant to be a parody and people understand this, no. It´s not.

Then again, some people mistake parody for reality

J

[comixcollctr]

Originally posted by Hookworm
I never said I was better than you. I said people need to stop whining about "political incorrectness". If anything, I'm saying you should have the right to be politically incorrect. Granted, I did not agree with your racist statements, but I didn't say I was better than you. And believe me, I NEVER, EVER, climbed up on a "moral horse." Good god, you'd be hard-pressed to find someone with LESS morals or ethics that me. I'm an immoral, tasteless asshole. But I never tried to clame otherwise.

Then you don't qualify to pass any judgement on anyone.

[MattBrady]

Originally posted by comixcollctr
Then you don't qualify to pass any judgement on anyone. And neither do you.

So can we all grow the hell up here?

There will be no more warnings.

MattB

[Nakedmanatee]

Originally posted by Charlie Hustle
I'm offended by forum nudity AND my father was mauled to death by a mentally handicapped manatee while deep sea snorkeling. Please change both parts of your name. Also the key to responding to name calling is not changing the people who do name-calling but deciding if it has any palpable effect. This is not the n-word in reconstruction era south, this is not a word used to reinforce systematic racism, so the “harm” you’re speaking of is beyond minimal. Retarded people are not the subject of any widespreading persecution or slavery, and you’re greatly exaggerating to make your point.

Reread your post (which was cute btw) and then tell me again who is exaggerating.

--Dave

[Charlie Hustle]

Originally posted by Nakedmanatee
Reread your post (which was cute btw) and then tell me again who is exaggerating.

--Dave

I am, for humor. you're doing it because you're sanctimonious. Also you don 't have an answer for the palpable 'harm' that's done, it just sounds sensitive to say it.

Late.

[zeraze]

Originally posted by OcCaM
On the other hand, my personal experiences with the Indian culture (based on my college days) is that they are a bunch of homophobes and I really don't want to support their country in any way shape or form. On the other hand a lot can change in a decade or so. I doubt it though.

Well, America's got it'f fair share of homophobes as more than a few comic book message boards have demonstrated. If this weren't the case Bush would be pushing the Kerry is for gay marriage" myth so hard in his bid to get re-elected tomorrow?

Plus, it irks me thinking how many customer service jobs that my friends have lost to overseas there.

You really should be blaming American companies so obsessed with the bottom line that they are willing to ship American jobs overseas to tap into cheaper labor markets. So much for patriotism or racial solidarity.

Getting back to Spider-Man India, I plan to get the comic because it sounds like it could be a fun twist on a familiar story. Sort of like the DC's mini-series Red Son about an infant Superman growing up into communist Russia instead of democratic Kansas. This is good news for Marvel since until now I've been enjoying the Spider-Man movies more than the comics that inspired them.

zeraze

[Hookworm]

Originally posted by comixcollctr
Then you don't qualify to pass any judgement on anyone.

Dude, that's the whole point. I wasn't passing judegement on anyone. So stop playing the martyr. You're a bad actor.

[Nakedmanatee]

Originally posted by Charlie Hustle
I am, for humor. you're doing it because you're sanctimonious. Also you don 't have an answer for the palpable 'harm' that's done, it just sounds sensitive to say it.

Late.

Okay, now reread my original post. Where is the exaggeration? And if I wanted to sound sensitive, the Newsarama message boards would be the last place I'd do it. I never made any connections between using the word 'retarded' and slavery. You can disagree with me all you like, but let's just stick to what was actually said. I know that's not as fun and, incidentally invalidates everything you had to say, but what the hell, you can't have everything.
All things being subjective, I'd still say that retarded is an offensive word. My point was that if it wasn't it wouldn't give anybody a thrill to use it, like they were breaking a rule. No, it's not a form of racism. I never said that, that was purely your conjecture. (And how you made that leap I'll never know.) Does it do harm? Of course it does, just like most other hurtful language. Is it harmful in the sense of a whip beating the back of Fredrick Douglass? Well, um, no. Again, the exaggeration was all yours. But if you want an example of "harm," try this. Use the word retarded in the popular sense that it's used, around say, new parents whose child has been diagnosed with mental retardation. They might have a different view of "harm" then you do. Now we can argue over whether that's something worth altering our popular language about, but it does exist. It's really just a question of being polite. And hey, matters like that are fair game; we can argue, as a society if those things matter to us.
And for the record (and I thought this was clear in my first post) I'm not even advocating having everybody avoid hurtful language. You can say whatever you like. America the beautiful, etc. Just don't live under the illusion that the things you say and do not have an effect on people around you. Sanctimonious? Nah. A preacher wants to change the world. I just want to get my point across without people misconstruing what I say. I think it's interesting (and telling) that you've spent more time attacking and labeling me than arguing against my point (that hey: using the word retarded might just offend).
So I'm wondering what other exaggerations you're going to imagine for your conveinence. Oh what the hell, here's some argument helpers guarenteed to assist you in making a point: Hitler, Jews, Christians, and little yapping dogs. Knock yourself out.

--Dave

[Charlie Hustle]

Originally posted by Nakedmanatee
Okay, now reread my original post. Where is the exaggeration? And if I wanted to sound sensitive, the Newsarama message boards would be the last place I'd do it. I never made any connections between using the word 'retarded' and slavery. You can disagree with me all you like, but let's just stick to what was actually said. I know that's not as fun and, incidentally invalidates everything you had to say, but what the hell, you can't have everything.
All things being subjective, I'd still say that retarded is an offensive word. My point was that if it wasn't it wouldn't give anybody a thrill to use it, like they were breaking a rule. No, it's not a form of racism. I never said that, that was purely your conjecture. (And how you made that leap I'll never know.) Does it do harm? Of course it does, just like most other hurtful language. Is it harmful in the sense of a whip beating the back of Fredrick Douglass? Well, um, no. Again, the exaggeration was all yours. But if you want an example of "harm," try this. Use the word retarded in the popular sense that it's used, around say, new parents whose child has been diagnosed with mental retardation. They might have a different view of "harm" then you do. Now we can argue over whether that's something worth altering our popular language about, but it does exist. It's really just a question of being polite. And hey, matters like that are fair game; we can argue, as a society if those things matter to us.
And for the record (and I thought this was clear in my first post) I'm not even advocating having everybody avoid hurtful language. You can say whatever you like. America the beautiful, etc. Just don't live under the illusion that the things you say and do not have an effect on people around you. Sanctimonious? Nah. A preacher wants to change the world. I just want to get my point across without people misconstruing what I say. I think it's interesting (and telling) that you've spent more time attacking and labeling me than arguing against my point (that hey: using the word retarded might just offend).
So I'm wondering what other exaggerations you're going to imagine for your conveinence. Oh what the hell, here's some argument helpers guarenteed to assist you in making a point: Hitler, Jews, Christians, and little yapping dogs. Knock yourself out.

--Dave

Lol. The entire obvious point to anyone who doesn't need it spelled out for them that if harm is so relative to experiences and history behind the word, then saying something is 'retarded' has relatively NO harm. It is not, again, behind any massive movement against the group of people, it does not have the backing of any widespread conspiracy. The weight behind the word doesn't exist unless you convince yourself it does. It's harmless slang.

your exaggerations, itemized so that you're not stil so confused:

I know it's the new cool to use the word retarded

Retarded has been a part of people's slang for at least 21 years (based on my lifetime obviously) and perhaps longer. There's nothing new about it.

(In fact, it's the instant sense of "look at me, I'm on the edge, I'm politically incorrect!" that gives it a decent cache.)


Again, no it's not. for many people it is not remotely cutting edge. It's not a curse word, and it's not a catch phrase. It's something people use in passing, no different than saying something is bad to mean it's good. When I say something is dope I'm not saying it because it's cutting edge to say a word that also relates to drugs. come on.

I know I'm not going to get anywhere with this because to understand this you have to have a certain degree of empathy.


exaggeration. To suggest that your position is aligned with a positive emotion is a pathetic attempt to demonize people with differing viewpoints. Another stupid example would be: 'you don't have to agree with me, not everybody cares about other people as much as I do'. It doesn't actually make a point of any kind it just greatly exaggerates the degrees of separation between two groups of people based on semantics.

Because make no mistake about it, when you use it, you're making fun of handicapped people, and arguably, a segment of the population that really can't fight back.


Actually generally the insult is used to insult non-handicapped people. There is a handicap so the insult is directed to the people who are NOT in reality restricted. not a complicated point

don't pretend that it's harmless and that it doesn't have an effect on other people.


Again, the people who say it's harmless are "pretending". Incapable of proving your point you rely on the same technique throughout your exaggerated, silly post.

Have any more questions?

[Nakedmanatee]

I suppose this is where I really fire back, huh? ;) I get it now, I get it, in Charlie Hustle-world *anything* is an exagerration. (And yes, I'm exaggerating there.) We could go round and round on this, but there's a voice inside of my head telling me, "Forget it Dave, it's Chinatown." (I actually think it's Matt Brady, who has been incredibly tolerant of all of this.) So never let it be said I couldn't relinquish last word rights. (And lets face it, you and I both know you won't be able to NOT say something after this.) You have my blessing, my son. Fire away.
I don't know about you, dude, but I am so buying *two* copies of Spider-Man India to make up for this tangent.

[poo11apr84]

I think this is a brilliant idea. I currently live in South Korea where all they have is graphic novels. Many Koreans who come to my home and see my comics and coment on how "small" they are. They simply haven't ever read an American comic and don't know the qualitative value. As a Marvel fan I'm proud of them. Reaching out to other countries is not only a great marketing idea, its also a great way to introduce other parts of the world to the greatness that is American comics.

As far as the book itself, I think it looks fantastic. The art is right on the money. The writing also seams to be pretty good. The Indian Twist should make for a whole new Spiderman Story. I'm going to have to pick this one up next time I'm in the states.

[Kolimar]

It looks nice. I think the "vernacular" version is a great idea. It'll be interesting at least to see their take and modifications.

[the monkey]

This is one of the dumbest idea Quesada ever green lit.No one is interested here and no one has the dough to buy it there.Great idea,a book marketed for a third world country.They barely have money for food.And all the characters are anglified.it's terrible.

Over here in my country 99.99999999% of the comics are from overseas mainly from the U.S. i've never been to the U.S. but i still read and enjoy comics about characters and places i know very little about and i'm sure Captian America is just as popular in other countries as he is in in the states
i think it it would be good to see more international*characters and i don't think it would hurt you to look outside at the rest of the world and learn something every now and again.

( Canada and Mexico don't count ;) )

[poo11apr84]

Where are you from Monkey?

[OcCaM]

Originally posted by zeraze
Well, America's got it'f fair share of homophobes as more than a few comic book message boards have demonstrated. If this weren't the case Bush would be pushing the Kerry is for gay marriage" myth so hard in his bid to get re-elected tomorrow?

[B]

You really should be blaming American companies so obsessed with the bottom line that they are willing to ship American jobs overseas to tap into cheaper labor markets. So much for patriotism or racial solidarity.

Getting back to Spider-Man India, I plan to get the comic because it sounds like it could be a fun twist on a familiar story. Sort of like the DC's mini-series Red Son about an infant Superman growing up into communist Russia instead of democratic Kansas. This is good news for Marvel since until now I've been enjoying the Spider-Man movies more than the comics that inspired them.

zeraze

Actually, the real blame lies with the Clinton administration. But, India's an easier target for me! :)

Anyway, looking forward to this elseworld's title. Esp. after having read the Ezekial trade tonight and I'm SOOOOOO sick of JMS.

[UX-Gal]

I dunno. I am Venezuelan, live in Venezuela, and if Marvel decided to put out Hombre-Araña: Latino starring Pedro Parquez as Hombre-Araña, Tío Benito, Tía Maya and Maria Juana I would not buy it nor go anywhere near it.

Maybe if it was an original new character that was a latin superhero in a southamerican country I would take a look.

But that's just me.

---UX-Gal
http://www.geocities.com/ux_gal/

[Cyclops31]

Originally posted by Hdefined
I just don't have much interest in Indian culture, so I'm not really interested in this.

Same here.

[Knoll]

Originally posted by Charlie Hustle
...My main question of course is why spiderman needs to be adapted instead of simply creating a native character there. The obvious answer would seemingly be the Eurocentric lack of interest in non-american or european cultures.

That is my problem with Marvel right there, no respect for their characters.

I mean casting the flavor of the month actor/actress when they look nothing like the character to stir up some talk isn’t exactly my idea of staying faithful to the source material. Another problem (which is the topic here) is that they now seem to be recreating their characters, some of which are older then a lot of the people posting here, just to fill their pockets with more $$$. Now I know Marvel isn’t the only ones guilty of making these grievous error and this is business so makin green is the name of the game but come on, have some integrity man!

Does Harry Potter need to be recreated every time he finds himself being released in a nation that’s not his point of origin? No. Why is that? Because HP is so well written with such fun & interesting moments & characters that it appeals to people on a global scale.

Now naturally not everything is going to be a Harry Potter style juggernaut, and we are talking about two very diff industries, but Marvel (& company) should at least try to create such an entity that can be appreciated the world over, breaking down all boundaries of different up bringing’s and time zones! If they fail then ok well at least you tried right? Then they can move on to what should be their plan B which is creating all new original characters to appeal to the intricacies of other cultures. Or better yet using characters that are already in their stable like Black Panther or Alpha Flight which might have a broader appeal in their respective markets given the right approach and directions (story wise).

Keep in mind I’m not talking about some writers half baked perception of what other cultures are like, but actually acquiring a talent from the nation you wish to reach and have them breath life into these creations. I know a lot of the writers and artists we see around here are either American or Brit but get a clue M, there are talented people in other nations besides Britain and the US of A. Go out there and seek them out for your endeavors (instead of just stealing them away from com.x), it might just work for ya. Then if the comics are a success overseas, you bring them back here in republished editions and see if they appeal to us as well.

I mean come on M, its not brain surgery. You don’t have to continually sell the soul of your characters in order to make money, just put some effort into it and you’ll be better off.

This rant is officially over. You may return to your regularly schedualed posting. Good day :D

[Stancheck]

Can´t wait to see when Bollywood make
an indian Spider-man Movie! http://img120.exs.cx/img120/2365/uglyhammer_2.gif

[Tenjikuronin]

Originally posted by comixcollctr
.Great idea,a book marketed for a third world country.They barely have money for food.And all the characters are anglified.it's terrible.

If you don't know anything about India, then it would be a good idea to keep your mouth shut.

First of all India is not "poor". People can afford more than enough to eat.

Also, the characters are not "Anglified". They correctly resemble Indians. You have to understand that Indians are not one single skin color. They range from pale white all the way to dark black.

[Tenjikuronin]

Originally posted by Charlie Hustle
while his comments were pretty dumb I think India is considered a third world country, no?

http://www.ccnr.org/third_world_nukes.html

just the first google result that came up but i'm pretty sure they count as 3rd world.

"Third World" as coined by Jawarlal Nehru, refers to countries that are niether Communist nor Capatalist (hence not being alligned with the USA or the then USSR). It had nothing to do with economic situation, but since then it has been used to describe economic situations.

And the story with India is, they have a poor class, a middle class and a rich class. The only differnce is that their poor class is really poor while their rich class is really rich. That leaves everybody else in the middle, hence their middle class is the majority of the population.

[Tenjikuronin]

Originally posted by OcCaM


On the other hand, my personal experiences with the Indian culture (based on my college days) is that they are a bunch of homophobes and I really don't want to support their country in any way shape or form. On the other hand a lot can change in a decade or so. I doubt it though. Plus, it irks me thinking how many customer service jobs that my friends have lost to overseas there. (And the even more annoying phone coversations with creditors that come from India and their annoying little accents.)



Uh, "homophobes"? That's quite a generlization.

:confused:

[poo11apr84]

Actually homophobes isn't far off. Indians are nice people but they still don't accept homosexuals. There are many things in thier society that are percieved to be only male or only female. If a man is wearing something that only females wear or vice versa they are seen as gay. My friend Jani had a hard time when when one of our other friends, Trent, got his ears pierced. Jani kept saying that that Trent looked kind of gay or like a girl.

It should also be said that homophobic is a little to strong of a word for them. They don't hate homosexuals, Indians are just uncomfortable with them.

By the way I think the comic is great and a wonderful idea.

[Tenjikuronin]

Originally posted by poo11apr84
Actually homophobes isn't far off. Indians are nice people but they still don't accept homosexuals. There are many things in thier society that are percieved to be only male or only female. If a man is wearing something that only females wear or vice versa they are seen as gay. My friend Jani had a hard time when when one of our other friends, Trent, got his ears pierced. Jani kept saying that that Trent looked kind of gay or like a girl.

It should also be said that homophobic is a little to strong of a word for them. They don't hate homosexuals, Indians are just uncomfortable with them.


Weird, I wonder why your friend would freak out at a guy getting his ears pierced. Guys in India quite often get their ears pierced, its quite common actually. Maybe it was the earrings? :p

While Indian society as a whole is not comfortable with homosexuals, there are actually a few gay Indians out there. The most famous being 'Freddie Mercury' from the band Queen.