OH, CANADA: NEW OMEGA FLIGHT SERIES ANNOUNCED AT TORONTO

[MattBrady]

<img src="http://www.newsarama.com/marvelnew/Apha_Flew.jpg" align="right"><i>by Vaneta Rogers</i>

The <b>Civil War</b> panel at the Toronto Comic Book Expo started with one irate fan interrupting the proceedings in response to the demise of Marvel's premier Canadian superhero team.

Before the panel could begin, an obviously angry fan in the audience (who looked an awful lot like Brian Michael Bendis), stood up and bitterly asked "Is Alpha Flight dead?"

C.B. Cebulski, who was already seated at the lead table with other panelists, answered, "Yes, Alpha Flight is dead."

Bendis replied, "So, America gets like 5,000 superheroes. We don't get anything. All we had was Alpha Flight. They sucked, but they were ours."

Humberto Ramos, who was also seated at the panel table, pointed out that Wolverine is Canadian, but that didn't seem to satisfy Bendis.

"Are you accepting submissions of ideas for a new Alpha Flight?" he asked. Cebulski reluctantly agreed to hear his idea for a new Alpha Flight.

Bendis announced that he would change the name of the Canadian superhero team to Omega Flight, and he'd have Michael Avon Oeming write it with Scott Kolins on art.

Cebulski approved the idea right then, and announced that in 2007, the team of Oeming and Kolins, who were seen together most recently on <B>Thor: Blood Oath</b>, would be reuniting on an ongoing <b>Omega Flight</b> comic.

"There was no way me and McNiven were going to show up in this country without announcing a new Alpha Flight," Bendis said.

Once Bendis joined the panel, they took questions from the audience. On the panel with Bendis, Ramos and Cebulski were Yanick Paquette, Mark Morales, and Olivier Coipel.

The first subject addressed by a fan's question was why the announcement about the delay of <b>Civil War</b> wasn't made earlier.

"The reasoning for when they announced it, I don't know. I don't think anyone here knows anything about it," Cebulski said. However, he pointed out that people from Marvel who were involved in that decision have addressed the issue online. "Tom Brevoort and Joe [Quesada] -- I think their answers spoke the truth... They weren't trying to pull the wool over retailer's eyes and trying to delay."

Bendis added, "What C.B. is saying is that if you want a detailed answer, there's a thread on
Newsarama and on Millarworld that will give Mark's point of view, Steve's point of view, Tom's point of view. I swear to god, I know these guys -- it's honest stuff."

- Will <B>Civil War</b> be published along with the tie-ins in chronological order? Cebulski said he didn't know the answer to that, but he said they would most likely collect the main story in a hardcover but they would try to do something like Age of Apocalypse where things are put together in order, or they would publish some kind of guide about the order.

- Were there writers or artists who had to throw out ideas for their comics because <b>Civil War</b> came along and ruined them? Cebulski said that during the Marvel retreat where Civil War was planned, they were working far enough ahead that writers could plan for it. And, he added, "nobody was forced to participate." For example, Dan Slott decided to do a tie-in with <b>She-Hulk</b>, but he didn't have to, while <b>Planet Hulk</b> didn't address it because Hulk is out in space.

Bendis added that for him, it gave him a creative challenge that he enjoyed. "All these things are like hurdles. It's the creator's choice to use it creatively. Here's something thrown in front of you, now be creative," Bendis said. "Something like this, I just think, 'OK, what can we do?'"

- Asked about how the delays will affect the future <b>Civil War</b> stories that spin out of the mini, such as <b>Mighty Avengers</b>, Bendis said they haven't been affected negatively. "Come next spring, everything is still coming. That schedule is rock solid for next spring." Using <b>Mighty Avengers</b> as an example, he said the delay merely gives him and the artist another month to get ahead on their series, but it will still come out as planned and so will the other spin-offs.

- One fan wanted to know how they were coordinating all the elements of <b>Civil War</b>. Cebulski said Tom Brevoort has a timeline on his computer of how everything ties together. "It's up to him as the ultimate authority how everything ties in," Cebulski explained.

- The panelists were asked, whose side are they are on?

Humberto Ramos: Wolverine's side.

Cebulski: He's on the side of the Runaways, "which is currently on the underground/Captain America side," he said.

Olivier Coipel: "I'm with Iron Man."

Mark Morales: "Captain America's my favorite, so it has to be Cap."

Yannick Paquette: "I'm for freedom. It would be Cap."

Bendis: "Sue Dibney."

- Asked about the Sentry, Bendis said there's going to be a Sentry story coming up in Issue #24 of <b>New Avengers</b> drawn by Pasqual Ferry. "It looks fantastic."

- One fan asked about Spider-Man's secret identity being revealed and why Marvel decided to go in that direction. "When you do something like that, it's not about the shocking moment, it's about the stories that come for three years afterward," Bendis said. "What's coming in the next are years of interesting Spider-Man stories that you have not seen before."

- Will Spider-Man get the old costume back? "Spidey always goes back to the red and blue," Cebulski said. "But the whens and whys, I'm not sure about."

- Now that Thor is back, will he fight Sentry? "You can hope!" Bendis said, then added that, actually, a mandate had come down to him that Sentry will not be whining as much and there will be more things for him to fight that are worthy of his time. As for Thor? "We can't talk about Thor too much," he said.

- How did they choose what side characters would be on? "Everything was discussed from personality to history to past actions to everything that they were doing in their current books," Cebulski said. Bendis added that some were easier to peg than others. "Some characters had such a deep history for so many years that there was no question about which side," he said, "But Spider-Man: that's someone you can say which side would he be on?" On the one hand he's rebellious but he had also been seen recently going down a path where he was working with Iron Man. "That's the story you're seeing," he said.

- One fan asked about whether the events in <b>Civil War</b> would be echoed in the Ultimate Universe. “I don't think they'll mirror too much what's happened in Civil War, but you're going to see something dramatic in both universes at one time," Bendis said, citing that here's a genuinely shocking ending to the <b>Ultimates</b> storyline, as well as the events that will be shown in <b>Ultimate Power</b> and the Clone Saga story.

- Will any characters switch sides? "You're going to see some characters change sides," Cebulski said. "And you'll see some characters like The Thing, who says, 'To hell with it. I'm out of here.' "

- Will Marvel continue doing big events in the future? "We're about telling good stories, and the fact that a lot of these stories came out at the same time is a reflection of a lot of energy at Marvel right now," Cebulski said, but he added that there are a lot of smaller stories that are being written that shouldn't be overlooked. Cebulski said that he had seen Quesada announce that next year there won't be a big event, but there will be a lot of smaller stories that will take the characters in different directions as a result of <b>Civil War</b>.

- Why isn't Damage Control involved in <b>Civil War</b>? "I don't want to ruin the story but they're behind the whole thing," Bendis joked. Bendis added that Ultimate Damage Control is making an appearance in <b>Ultimate Spider-Man</b>.

- A young fan asked if Iron Man and Captain America will be allies again. Bendis said, "I can almost guarantee you that they will beat the holy hell out of each other." Cebulski said, "You have to keep reading it to find out."

"Who knows if they survive it at the end?" Bendis teased. "Could be new people in the costumes."

- Will any heroes become villains? "You'll have to keep reading," Cebulski said. "You're going to see heroes turn into villains, villains turn into heroes, cats and dogs living together, mass hysteria," Bendis added.

- Number of characters on Omega Flight? "No more than 40," Bendis joked. "No, it's a regular team size. I'll give you that. Nothing too crazy."

- One fan wanted to know why so many superheroes are fighting each other instead of fighting villains like superheroes usually do: "They're fighting for something they believe in. It's not childish. What they're fighting for is important to them," Bendis said.

- What are the villains doing while the heroes are fighting? "That's another story. The villains might be up to something. Just like the mob takes advantage of every war that ever happens," Bendis said. "Which would give the heroes something to fight for other than Civil War. So stay tuned."

- Will other countries and their reaction to the Americans forcing superheroes to register be
addressed? Cebulski said <b>Civil War: Frontline</b> will be telling that story. "In that book, you'll see some of the international landscape, reacting to the American registration act," he said. Bendis added that not all American civilians like it either, and we'll see them react in the second half of the story as well.

- In <b>Incredible Hulk</b>, will Bruce Banner be coming back anytime soon? "If you read the giant size <b>Planet Hulk</b>, you did see Banner make a brief appearance in there," Cebulski said. "And coming up, I don't want to spoil anything for Greg Pak or the wonderful art team who's been working on that book."

- Will Hulk come back to planet earth in time for Civil War? "That is the big question, isn’t it?" Cebulski said. "His impact, what side he's going to be on could be a big point in this. I can't say anything for or against that. You're just going to have to keep on reading."

With that, Cebulski began to end the discussion, but Bendis suddenly reacted to the idea of Hulk
being part of <b>Civil War</b>. "He's going to be pretty pissed when he comes back, though," Bendis said. "It would be pretty bad if he showed up right there. That would be like dropping a bomb on these guys in the middle of the fight. That would be like the Marvel equivalent of Hiroshima. It's just like this giant thing just happened in the middle of a war. It would change the whole thing. Wow. That <i>would</i> be crazy."

[John Berger]

Damn I wanted to go to the Fan Expo this year, but couldn't. :( Glad to hear about Omega Flight though.

EDIT: And judging by the activity this thread is getting, I guess I'm the only one.

[Slave 1]

Hmm!? Omega Flight? Sounds cool I guess. With Oeming writing it, I wonder if Beta Ray Bill will be on it.

[Marchie77]

Glad to see the canadian super teams keeping on...

fingers crossed for a return of Wild Child, Box and the Purple Girl... but dead never means dead in the MU... those were probably just the Plodex alien clones of Alpga Flight from the recent series... the real deal will be back in no time... :D

[connorfan]

Omega Flight, rock! I'd love to see Flex on this team, one of my favorite Alpha Flight heroes!

[Marchie77]

Damn I wanted to go to the Fan Expo this year, but couldn't. :( Glad to hear about Omega Flight though.

EDIT: And judging by the activity this thread is getting, I guess I'm the only one.

(I think the regular Bendis Bashers are spend on Mighty Avengers right now... dont worry they'll be here in all there pettiness.. ;) )

[Tobias]

Damn I wanted to go to the Fan Expo this year, but couldn't. :( Glad to hear about Omega Flight though.

EDIT: And judging by the activity this thread is getting, I guess I'm the only one.
I wanted to go too but I couldn't. I might make it there tomorrow though.

[The 'Nam]

Hmmm, Omega Flight, eh? (Wow, I really didn't mean for that bad pun when I first typed that...)

I love Scott Kolins' art. I'll definitely try that. I also love Oeming's art, but I'm not too sold on his writing abilities. I'm certainly intrigued - I need team roster, damnit! But I'll probably end up trying it.

Asked about the Sentry, Bendis said there's going to be a Sentry story coming up in Issue #24 of New Avengers drawn by Pasqual Ferry. "It looks fantastic."

I thought Adi Granov was drawing this issue?

[Disco Cookie]

Kolins on art - I'm there!

[Mark Cardwell]

I thought Adi Granov was drawing this issue?

Haven't you heard? Adi Granov is now working on the Iron Man movie. And comics are doomed.

[Ironhorse]

Hmmm, Omega Flight, eh? (Wow, I really didn't mean for that bad pun when I first typed that...)

I love Scott Kolins' art. I'll definitely try that. I also love Oeming's art, but I'm not too sold on his writing abilities. I'm certainly intrigued - I need team roster, damnit! But I'll probably end up trying it.



I thought Adi Granov was drawing this issue?

I think he is working in the Iron Man movie, so Marvel moved him from New Avengers, even I really wanted to see his Sentry story, Pasqual Ferry is damm good, so no problem for me. Peace.

[scorpion mk]

kewl omega flight sounds interesting i think i just added another book to m tentative pull list i wonder what the team will be with all the main characters from the book dead will it be the heroes that fled to canada maybe?

[capt._dallas]

Regarding "Omega Flight,"

I just posted my interview of Oeming and Kolins regarding their new title:

http://www.silverbulletcomicbooks.com/features/115723113681308.htm

The promotional image that Marvel provided me is *somewhat* illuminating about the cast of the book.

[dr.no]

Oh Canada? Why not, Blame Canada for yet another resurrection of a comic that's doomed from the start.

[unmovedmover]

mmm, Oeming and Kolins... That's a must buy for me:D :D :D

[SuperginraiX]

Great job Moonbeam!

Omega Flight! I am going to lose my apartment since I'll be buying so much stuff! :eek:

[John Berger]

Regarding "Omega Flight,"

I just posted my interview of Oeming and Kolins regarding their new title:

http://www.silverbulletcomicbooks.com/features/115723113681308.htm

The promotional image that Marvel provided me is *somewhat* illuminating about the cast of the book.

First reaction: Is that a robotic Thor?!

Then: Wait, is that Captain AMERICA?

[dr.no]

First reaction: Is that a robotic Thor?!

Then: Wait, is that Captain AMERICA?

We can only hope.

[President Kang]

going there tomorrow, have this panel again, dammit!

[RedRonin]

Looking forward to Omega Flight, though I'm not crazy about Kollins art.

And I'm a little said to see Granov not doing the Sentry issue, but it's not like Ferry is doesn't have any talent. Granov better still be turning out those cool Iron Man covers though.

[RedRonin]

First reaction: Is that a robotic Thor?!

Then: Wait, is that Captain AMERICA?
Beta Ray Bill.

[HeX111]

looks like Thor and Spider Woman along with Gladiator

I'm trying to guess... US Agent? Or Captain America?

and as that Storm? or maybe another Canadian hero?

[TheTourist]

Where did that dead Alpha Flight image come from?

This one: http://www.newsarama.com/marvelnew/Apha_Flew.jpg

It looks like McNiven art, but I don't remember seeing that in Civil War anywhere.

Oh, and as for Hulk coming back to beat some ass, that was confirmed in the letters column in a recent issue of Planet Hulk. I forget which one it was, but Greg Pak was answering letters, and he said something about having to come up with different ways for Hulk to smash superheroes sometime in the very near future.

[capt._dallas]

Where did that dead Alpha Flight image come from?

This one: http://www.newsarama.com/marvelnew/Apha_Flew.jpg

It looks like McNiven art, but I don't remember seeing that in Civil War anywhere.

That image is from "New Avengers" #16 which presented the "death" of Alpha Flight (alas, off-panel). The issue was drawn by McNiven.

[HeX111]

edit: nevermind... someone beat me to it

[Dwight Williams]

Huh.

I'd've thought Rob Sawyer or Paul Haggis would've gotten first crack at any future Canadian Marvel Universe action...they're bigger names in the US, they've got more street cred with Canadians back here...

[Lord Simian]

It's from New Avengers, I don't recall the number, 16? 17?

Edit: Apparently, it's 16. I commend thee, Capt. Dallas!

[ME5]

Hello.

Wow, Captain America and "Captain Canada" on the same team?!?! GREAT! I also think that will be the actual Thor, not some replacement.

I hope this will be good, although I am not a fan of Mr. Kolins' art...no offence meant to him or his fans.

Be Well...:)

[immortus]

Arachne, Guardian, Beta Ray Bill and...a Captain America inspired hero?

[EmperorHulk]

Ah, yes, more "Hulk returns" teases. I hope Green Genes does come back like a bomb. Show the petty heroes what a real war is.

As for the linked Omega Flight pic, That probably is Cap, give the distinctive shield and the fact that U.S. Agent sucks, I mean, is a gov't lapdog. As much as I liked the thought of Robo-Thor, I too, think that is probably Beta Ray Bill, though he seems to have gained several hundred pounds of muscle, bone, and tissue, possibly from an extra-dimensional source.

[VinnyPic]

That's US Agent, Not Cap.


I love me some Kolins.


Keith, Nice work. When did you migrate from the Bloc to the Rama? :p


AND WHERE THE HELL IS NORTHSTAR?

[immortus]

AND WHERE THE HELL IS NORTHSTAR?

He's evil now.

[blackacid]

Scott Kolins on Omega Flight? Why not Rob Liefeld? They BOTH suck!
That's another MARVEL book that sounds interesting but I won't regret passing-up.


And... Is it possible that THAT'S why Civil War's delayed? To get the Hulk involved?
THAT sounds cool. With Planet Hulk running so long that they'd havta do a delay to line
these both up. First bring back Thor THEN bring back the Hulk. Good idea. Worth the
delay.

[Mr. B]

That's US Agent, Not Cap.



Is this based on anything concrete? That looks like Captain America's shield.

[capt._dallas]

Keith, Nice work. When did you migrate from the Bloc to the Rama? :p

Didn't you hear? I got banned from comicbloc... by myself. ;)


AND WHERE THE HELL IS NORTHSTAR?

Like "Immortus" wrote, Northstar is being a bad, bad boy. Check out "X-Men" #189-190.

[innocentboy]

hmmm ........

[astronato]

Oeming is the man but that line up in that image is...I dunno....ehhhh.

I'm interested in Puck, Sasquatch, Guardian, Vindicator, Marrina, Shaman, Aurora and Snowbird. Omega Flight is a cool name and I'm up for a new direction and all but...I dunno.

Oeming writing Beta Ray Bill could be great, but just going on that image this looks like an eclectic team like the Defenders or the Champions. I sorta want an Alpha Flight book with my favorites.

[S-Prime]

Is this based on anything concrete? That looks like Captain America's shield.


Yup, it's Cap. It's been stated here on Newsarama that Cap would be going to Canada.

[caleb]

Cool. But what's this "Omega Flight" crap? Unless I've got my Greek alphabet wrong, that means we're missing out on, like, 24 different versions of Canadian superteams, right? Where's our "Beta Flight" and so on?

[Stalzer2002]

Is this based on anything concrete? That looks like Captain America's shield.

Well, in the Silverbullet interview, Oeming did say that one character was "fun too because he’s a bit of a cold bastard." That could describe the USAgent.

As for the rest of the team, the Thor-looking character must be Beta-Ray Bill. The floating woman looks like she has some kind of circlet on her head, so she might be Talisman. There's someone new in the Guardian suit. And finally, some Spider-Woman-esque character...maybe Julia Carpenter...maybe Arana...

[Wobag]

Beta, Gamma and Delta (I think) were all used in the original run.

Thats definitely Talisman.

Cant say Im too excited about this lineup. Alpha always flip flopped every couple of years from being a fringe X-Men title to being a fringe Avengers title. To be honest I never really liked it when it was Avengers aligned, and this, together with Mighty appears to be part of an attempt to create an 'Avengers Family' of titles to mirror the successful number of X-Men team books.

That aside I cant say Im too wowed by the implied lineup, still Ill pick up the first issue.

[scorpion mk]

that is one bizarre cast usagent, thor?, arachne, vindicator?(dead), and a girl with some sort of psionic power??

i might have just changed my mind about adding this book to my tentataive pull

[EmperorHulk]

Where's our "Beta Flight" and so on?

Heh, Beta Flight with Beta Ray Bill.

...sorry.

[RedRonin]

Yup, it's Cap. It's been stated here on Newsarama that Cap would be going to Canada.
Where has this been said?

[jaredgood1]

I was going to get aggrivated about Cap possibly going to Canada, but then something occurred to me: he's Captain America. Not Captain USA. Looks like he found a name loophole.

[LostAndFoundFan]

Oooohh. It's 'The Captain.' And Megamorph Thor! And some version of Major Mapleleaf! And Arana! And....um...Clea? Looks like Canada has claimed their half of the Great Lakes Avengers. Oh well, looks like fun anyway. I'll give it a try.

-Tony!

[Drcharles]

Damn so they really did kill off Alpha Flight,

Damn them all ,
If this new series does not work out or they fail to deliver....................

[Diespinne]

Hmmmm wonder if Marvel is trying to de-Byrne Alpha Flight and make their very own???? Guess Byrne sucks those days and don't make me sing O'Canada please!

[Jed Saxon]

Nice line-up (beats "Mighty Avengers" by far). I just hope that will be Arachne and not Jessica who went with Cap to Canada. And hopefully that's USAgent (who ist also Captain America now. Remember "New Invaders" - Marvel wanted him to be called Cap but not beeing Steve Rogers. So that could be him).

Arache and USAgent in the same team again. I smell Force Works. Heh. And yeah, I loved that book. Still miss Shaman.

[shadow-ray]

ok, I'll bite the bullet for the team and show the image from the link...so people don't ask.

http://www.silverbulletcomicbooks.com/features/images/0608/omega/omegaflight.jpg

Ok, left to right.......
Talisman (Shaman's daughter...but i just noticed she has Shaman's pouch)
Spider-Woman (Jessica Drew in what looks like a iron-spider like costime)
Guardian (James Hudson..or the one that went out into space.not the one that died in the lasr run)
The Captain (Steve Rogers)
Beta Ray Bill (in another updated..more a Thor costume as opposed to how we last saw him).

these are my guesses...I know at least 2 are right...(I hope)



Count me in

[Excelsior!]

Crikey! I keep forgetting that Moonbeam does articles for the 'rama - great stuff! :)

Shame about Bendis and Alpha Flight, tho' - "So, America gets like 5,000 superheroes. We don't get anything. All we had was Alpha Flight. They sucked, but they were ours." Either take them seriously, or give them to someone else who will. Don't hide your embarrasment by denigrating what other people might actually, y'know, like... :rolleyes:

And I'm not pleased AT ALL with the 'Omega' Flight Line-Up - why 'Omega' for chrissakes?!? Does that mean that they're outranked by the non-entities in Gamma Flight, then? Or did it just sound 'kewl' in the brainstorming session? Sweet t*ttyf*cking Christmas... :mad:

Oh, who am I kidding - it's got a guy in the Guardian suit, so I'm going to end up buying it anyway like the mindless berk that I am. C'est la vie, as they say in Quebec...

[SmileOnADog]

First reaction: Is that a robotic Thor?!

Then: Wait, is that Captain AMERICA?

I think it's Beta Ray Bill and USAgent, maybe? Guardian ( or a Guardian) is there and that's cool with me. I'm friggin psyched for this book.

[Kolimar]

Omega Flight by Oeming and Kolins? I'll take it! :D :) :)

[Goldenboy]

ok, I'll bite the bullet for the team and show the image from the link...so people don't ask.

http://www.silverbulletcomicbooks.com/features/images/0608/omega/omegaflight.jpg

Ok, left to right.......
Talisman (Shaman's daughter...but i just noticed she has Shaman's pouch)
Spider-Woman (Jessica Drew in what looks like a iron-spider like costime)
Guardian (James Hudson..or the one that went out into space.not the one that died in the lasr run)
The Captain (Steve Rogers)
Beta Ray Bill (in another updated..more a Thor costume as opposed to how we last saw him).

these are my guesses...I know at least 2 are right...(I hope)



Count me in


Sweet mother humping christ in a handbasket.

I was sure Luke Cage would be on this team, as would Spider-Man, since he'd be joining "The team you wouldn't expect". So, Spidey and Cage on New Avengers then?

[Psivage]

The is too big to be Beta Ray Bill, maybe a Box-Thor?

[shadow-ray]

Nah,
Bill has always been drawn that big

[Adm_Snackbar]

Cool picture, but I wished they actually showed it at the panel. (Which I attended, by the way. My very first con-panel.) By the way, they seemed to think we were absolutely rabid Alpha Flight fans, but really nobody seemed all that excited when it was announced. That being said, I'm planning to check this series out.

[Kolimar]

Crikey! I keep forgetting that Moonbeam does articles for the 'rama - great stuff! :)

Shame about Bendis and Alpha Flight, tho' - "So, America gets like 5,000 superheroes. We don't get anything. All we had was Alpha Flight. They sucked, but they were ours." Either take them seriously, or give them to someone else who will. Don't hide your embarrasment by denigrating what other people might actually, y'know, like... :rolleyes:

Well, Bendis won't be writing the book and he was probably kidding in any case. Probably. Knowing him, it's possible he really thinks AF sucks. Sigh... :p


And I'm not pleased AT ALL with the 'Omega' Flight Line-Up - why 'Omega' for chrissakes?!?

Probably because they're an evolution of Alpha Flight. Not the next step but the last step. The last line of defense. Or something like that. :D

[BanMan]

Yup, it's Cap. It's been stated here on Newsarama that Cap would be going to Canada.

But even more recently Leinel Yu commented, I think, that he was having fun drawing......SPOILER.......











Cap, Wolverine and Spidey for New Avengers.

[shadow-ray]

original post by S-Prime
Yup, it's Cap. It's been stated here on Newsarama that Cap would be going to Canada.

I don't remember reading that. I think it may have been speculation.
If it did say Cap, did they mean Steve Rogers or the Icon Captain America?

Link?

[Goldenboy]

USAgent doesn't use the rounded shield.

I'm 99% sure that the shield bearer on that image is Steve Rogers, as "The Captain".

[The Beyonder]

ok, I'll bite the bullet for the team and show the image from the link...so people don't ask.

http://www.silverbulletcomicbooks.com/features/images/0608/omega/omegaflight.jpg

Ok, left to right.......
Talisman (Shaman's daughter...but i just noticed she has Shaman's pouch)
Spider-Woman (Jessica Drew in what looks like a iron-spider like costime)
Guardian (James Hudson..or the one that went out into space.not the one that died in the lasr run)
The Captain (Steve Rogers)
Beta Ray Bill (in another updated..more a Thor costume as opposed to how we last saw him).

these are my guesses...I know at least 2 are right...(I hope)

Count me in

I'm going to go on a limb and say, left to right

Talisman
Arachne
Steve Rogers as Guardian
US Agent
The Hulk, with Mjolnir.

I'd buy that for a dollar!

Either way, you're guesses are probably a lot more "right" than mine are! ;)

[Delta Ass]

This team better have Omega Red.

[Zhen Dil Oloth]

First reaction: Is that a robotic Thor?!

Then: Wait, is that Captain AMERICA?

Looks loke Beta Ray Bill/Thor to me.

But I might be mistaken. ;)

[EyesBL7]

I will punch someone in the face if that is Steve Rogers on that lame ass team.

[Prometheus3]

Damn I had hoped Oeming would be writing a new Fantastic Four with Beta Ray Bill on the team. But Omega Flight sounds pretty cool even if I'm not a fan of Kolins art. My guesses for the team roster are:

U.S. Agent (Marvel will not have Captain America run away to Canada, Millar already confirmed this somewhere)
Beta Ray Bill (Never read a single issue with him in it but I am looking forward to it. If the shadow figure in the Thor costume is Thor that would be much cooler)
One of the two Spider-Women (either Julia Carpenter or Jessica Drew)
Guardian
And one of the Alpha Flight characters I am not familiar with

Well Marvel has succeeded, I have never read one issue of Alpha Flight in my life and I'm going to buy Omega Flight as soon as it comes out.

[leafinsectma]

Marvel will not have Captain America run away to Canada, Millar already confirmed this somewhere

Yeah, he said Cap won't go to Canada but he didn't specifically say Steve Rogers... I think. I remember thinking something was off when I read that stuff about Millar. But I guess we won't know for sure until it comes out.

[Xero]

Sucks to be Canadia, first they get rid of your most iconic heroes. Then they replace them with crappy American knockoffs.

Sux 2 B U!

-------------------
I know it's Canada... hence "teh funny".

[Ace]

So long as that's John Walker and not Cap, this is the most I've been excited for a new Marvel team book in.. geez, I have no idea. New Warriors v2 maybe(and we all know how that went).

Arachne, USAgent and Beta Ray Bill are all favorites. Oeming writes FUN marvel comics.

[Dana P.]

That has to be Beta Ray Bill. The indented half-circle on his helmet is a kind of trademark of the character.

Also, in last week's Joe Quesada Friday Q & A piece, he responded with this to someone who was inquiring as to an ongoing Beta Ray Bill series written by Oeming:

JQ: Howard, the reason you don't remember the announcement is because there wasn't any such announcement that I'm aware of. But, that said, Oeming will not be writing a Beta Ray Bill book any time in the near future but he will be writing Beta Ray Bill. Okay, I hope that clears things up for you.

So, unless Oeming is writing another Marvel mag with another Thor-type character, that's BRB.

[Xero]

I love that they looked at ways to fix Alpha Flight and said... you know what, this needs more America!

Hey it worked with Excalibur.

[Spartan]

ok, I'll bite the bullet for the team and show the image from the link...so people don't ask.

Ok, left to right.......
Talisman (Shaman's daughter...but i just noticed she has Shaman's pouch)
Spider-Woman (Jessica Drew in what looks like a iron-spider like costime)
Guardian (James Hudson..or the one that went out into space.not the one that died in the lasr run)
The Captain (Steve Rogers)
Beta Ray Bill (in another updated..more a Thor costume as opposed to how we last saw him).

these are my guesses...I know at least 2 are right...(I hope)

Those look like good guesses. I forgot all about Talisman, but that's definately a Shaman-esque character. Whatever happened to John Moss by the way? I don't recall him being there in the Avengers wipeout (although I sincerely hope that the horrid Lobdell creations took the brunt of the massacre).

I very much doubt that Bendis would let Jessica slip from under his fingertips, and Arachne has already made her anti-registration allegience. I'm dissappointed that the original cast is actually dead, but pumped about what Oeming can do with this team.

Beta Ray on Omega Flight....Ares on Mighty Avengers....Thor possibly on New Avengers....this should make for some epic confrontations!

[Spartan]

I love that they looked at ways to fix Alpha Flight and said... you know what, this needs more America!

Hey it worked with Excalibur right.

Well, if you crotchety Americans were more open to teams outside of your fancy country, Marvel could roll with a pure Canadian team. If it takes Captain America to make you Yanks buy the book, I'll gladly suffer his appearences! At least with Canadian/America relations, it makes some sense to have an American influence on the team.

[shadow-ray]

John Moss? :confused:

[Spartan]

John Moss? :confused:

Shaman's replacement/apprentice that he was training. Appeared in two issues of Wolverine, drawn by Ethan Van Sciver during the Morrison X-Men days.

[shadow-ray]

Was that the guy with the mohawk?

I think his name was Earthmover or something like that?

http://www.marvel.com/universe3zx/images/thumb/4/44/AlphaF.jpg/442px-AlphaF.jpg

the guy on the left with the sunglasses

[Uncle Jawa]

OK, I am far more excited about this Alpha Flight-related news than I thought I would be. I really dig the change to Omega Flight, I love the fact that it's Oeming and Kolins (two of my absolute favorite creators currently working at Marvel), and the line-up looks like a blast. I just hope that if that's Captain America, as in Steve Rogers, it doesn't interfere too much with whatever Brubaker is doing on Cap's ongoing series.

[pez dispenser]

Ordinarily, I'd pick this up. Hell, it would be my patriotic duty, eh.
But they lost me with Kolins....not a fan.

[Kolimar]

USAgent doesn't use the rounded shield.

He's used a round shield before, he could use one again.


I'm 99% sure that the shield bearer on that image is Steve Rogers, as "The Captain".

It's a possibility but I wouldn't bet on it. Walker is more probable.

[EmperorHulk]

the Hulk, with Mjolnir.

I like the way you think.

If that is ol' horse-skull-face, he's been hitting the gym.

[Kolimar]

That has to be Beta Ray Bill. The indented half-circle on his helmet is a kind of trademark of the character.

Also, in last week's Joe Quesada Friday Q & A piece, he responded with this to someone who was inquiring as to an ongoing Beta Ray Bill series written by Oeming:

JQ: Howard, the reason you don't remember the announcement is because there wasn't any such announcement that I'm aware of. But, that said, Oeming will not be writing a Beta Ray Bill book any time in the near future but he will be writing Beta Ray Bill. Okay, I hope that clears things up for you.

So, unless Oeming is writing another Marvel mag with another Thor-type character, that's BRB.

Good memory. :) I didn't need the confirmation but others certainly do. :D

[Kolimar]

Was that the guy with the mohawk?

I think his name was Earthmover or something like that?

http://www.marvel.com/universe3zx/images/thumb/4/44/AlphaF.jpg/442px-AlphaF.jpg

the guy on the left with the sunglasses

Yup. <wwww>

[shadow-ray]

Did they ever really show him in action? I remember seeing him in the Uncanny (by Garney), but they never showed his powers.

I assumed he was similar to Shaman, but wasn't quite sure with the name Earthmover

[statnut]

Kolins on art - I'm there!
Ditto that. I have this awesome nightwing sketch that he did for me on commission. Just awesome.

[Deadshot]

I just hope somewhere in the book there is an actual Canadian and they aren't from Ontario or Quebec. Is it too much to ask for a hero from the Atlantic provinces? Probably, since most of the characters are probably dodging Civil War related issues in the U.S.

[C.Charleston]

I'm excited that 'Flight is getting another shot....Alpha or Omega......I'll miss the Alpha but will definetley but Omega Flight......Looks to me like Captain America, Guardian (Mac), Beta Ray Bill, Ariana, and I'd guess the Tailsman (From AF)......Love kollins art and Omenig is great....and he loves Beta Ray Bill.......I can't wait.......

[SideShow Bob]

Just as a side note - I don't want to take away from this good news but I needed to vent a bit about the show. This comic con was probably the worst in terms of overall setup.

Some things I noticed:
- for some reason, the powers that be moved the location of the show from the north hall, to the very crowded south hall and made everyone walk a very long way - in some cases, you have to walk up from the parking garage area only to walk back down to the show. :confused: For those of you who live in the Toronto area, most would agree the North Hall is the perfect spot for the show as it is easily accessed from the main convention centre doors, transit and from the parking garage areas
:(
- It was very evident that they did not have as many vendors as previous years - especially the toy vendors - I wanted to get my son some Justice League toys and struggled to find ANYONE that had any :mad:
- People that were lined up to see the guest stars and artists/writers were blocking thru - traffic FOR EVERY SINGLE ROW IN THE CONVENTION (especially those lined up to see Carrie Fisher - dear god the line went from one side of the hall to other lengthwise).
- I overheard many people complaining that the floor was very unorganized - trying to pass thru the lines was a fight in itself.
- I don't know what possessed them to change the setup ( I had to pass by the north hall, which was EMPTY and you could clearly see it was a better location).

Me thinks someone was trying to save some money in cutting back the space, and hence the move. I don't think the comic vendors were happy as they seemed to be the ones that were the furthest from all the action. :rolleyes: Don't get me wrong, I'm sure the vendors made money, but I am sure it probably would have been more if the setup of the area would have been better.

A buddy of mine that came with me who was ready to buy stuff was sooo turned off from all the lines/crowds that he wound up buying nothing.

Sorry for sidetracking this talkback, but I'd like to hear other people's opinions on this as well. It was a bit of a let down this year. Not sure if I will attend next year...

[davi0850]

Okay I have a theory about the Thor type guy in the Omega Flight picture. I apologize if anyone already guessed this. Anyway...
h
In Fantastic Four, Thor's hammer had been a big focus for a number of issues. Some mysterious person took the hammer and we do not know who. Also in FF the Thing quits and says he won't join either side in the war and heads to Canada. There has been a lot of hints that the FF line-up was changing. So my theory is that the big guy is Ben Grimm with Thor's hammer. It is just too big to be Beta Ray Bill, the Hulk is off planet and when he returns their is a major story comming up (Hulkaggedon or smashaggedon or some such) that was announced a while back, so I don't think they would use him before his big return. So that's it. Thing Thor!

What do you think?:confused:

[Ash Talon]

Remember when Joe Q mentioned that there was a new Captain Marvel coming up that was a well established character? I know he said this plan was put on hold, but I think he's purposely misdirecting people.

Also remember how it's been stated twice now that different people might be wearing the Iron Man and/or Captain America costumes after CW?

So here's my guess on what happens:

Iron Man's side wins CW. Tony Stark remains in the IM costume. Forms Mighty Avengers to take on critical threats and be very public.

Steve Rogers once again quits his role of Captain America. He moves up north and becomes Captain MARVEL in a very similar costume to the CA one. The US government will want to do some damage control and have an actual Captain America, so someone will fill the role. Could be someone new or someone like John Walker. I bet this new Captain America is assigned as leader of the New Avengers which will do secret missions for SHIELD. New Avengers will largely composed up anti-registration characters that were defeated at the end of CW who are now forced to do the government's dirty work.

Thing Thor? Interesting. However, it was stated before that Oeming would be writing Beta Ray Bill. Since he writing Omega Flight, it's pretty obvious that BRB is on Omega Flight.

[Spartan]

Okay I have a theory about the Thor type guy in the Omega Flight picture. I apologize if anyone already guessed this. Anyway...
h
In Fantastic Four, Thor's hammer had been a big focus for a number of issues. Some mysterious person took the hammer and we do not know who. Also in FF the Thing quits and says he won't join either side in the war and heads to Canada. There has been a lot of hints that the FF line-up was changing. So my theory is that the big guy is Ben Grimm with Thor's hammer. It is just too big to be Beta Ray Bill, the Hulk is off planet and when he returns their is a major story comming up (Hulkaggedon or smashaggedon or some such) that was announced a while back, so I don't think they would use him before his big return. So that's it. Thing Thor!

What do you think?:confused:

The face shadow really looks like Beta Ray to me, you can almost draw in the horse-face yourself. I think it's ol' Billy only drawn really big...or maybe fused with someone/thing?

Isn't the Thing moving to Paris, or is that just a running joke?

[SuperginraiX]

Okay I have a theory about the Thor type guy in the Omega Flight picture. I apologize if anyone already guessed this. Anyway...
h
In Fantastic Four, Thor's hammer had been a big focus for a number of issues. Some mysterious person took the hammer and we do not know who. Also in FF the Thing quits and says he won't join either side in the war and heads to Canada. There has been a lot of hints that the FF line-up was changing. So my theory is that the big guy is Ben Grimm with Thor's hammer. It is just too big to be Beta Ray Bill, the Hulk is off planet and when he returns their is a major story comming up (Hulkaggedon or smashaggedon or some such) that was announced a while back, so I don't think they would use him before his big return. So that's it. Thing Thor!

What do you think?:confused:
Recently in Fantastic Four, Thing tried to lift Mjolnir and no luck.

Not Thing-Thor.

[Space Canuck]

I was at the panel and Bendis was hilarious. That has got to be the funniest introduction of a new series ever. And please take his comments concerning Alpha Flight as jokes. He was not dissing the old comics he was doing his impression of annoying nit-picky comic-fan. He got a call from Oeming a few minutes later to find out how the announcement went.

Space Canuck

[lordlad]

i've always wonder....is the Alpha Flight really that popular in the first place ? Their book always had a short lifespan.

[Comic_Doctor]

Great write up Vaneta. Imagine my surprise when I saw a fellow Newsarama member walk past my booth. Never in a million years did I think I'd see "Moonbeam" :)

[ThatNickGuy]

I haven't read all the posts so I don't know if this has been brought up:

http://www.silverbulletcomicbooks.com/features/images/0608/omega/omegaflight.jpg

So, I'm thinking Beta Ray Bill's the big Thor guy.

Amd I the only one who thinks that the shield design should have a Maple leaf instead of a star? Maybe it's just me but I think that would suit it more.

[Arkanian]

BOX. I want to see BOX!

p.s. Is Box dead? Its been quite awhile since I read my friends Alpha Flight collection.

[tridon]

Omega Flight, eh? I'll have to wait to see the character line-up before I make any decissions. I must say though, Oeming on the title definitely tempts me.

[Mithel]

I will punch someone in the face if that is Steve Rogers on that lame ass team.

How 'bout I just punch you in the face instead? :)

And those clamoring for the return of Box, it's not likely, at least, not under that name. Given what its meaning is in the common vernacular. Ahem.

Anyway, I'm just excited to see a Canadian superhero team again. Give Canada something. It doesn't have to much. Just...something.

[Icaruss]

- Why isn't Damage Control involved in <b>Civil War</b>? "I don't want to ruin the story but they're behind the whole thing," Bendis joked. Bendis added that Ultimate Damage Control is making an appearance in <b>Ultimate Spider-Man</b>.

Eh... That's no joke. They were giving MGH pills to Nitro so that he could go around creating bigger explosions, in order for them to be paid to clean his mess up later. That has recently been revealed in Wolverine.

[bob_at_york]

damn! why didn't I go to the con? :(

[ME5]

Hello.

Steve Rogers with his shield is my guess for the dude next to Guardian.

The eyes on the Thor-like being completely look like the eyes on BRB.

Interesting line-up, but I am wondering where Hercules, Falcon, DD, Cage, and the other members of Cap's resistance movement are. Sigh...I really hope this does not mean Hercules is the "major" death in CW.

I will wait to see the series before deciding, but I am not fan of Mr. Killins' art. No offence meant.

Be Well...:)

[SuperAaron]

That is such a Red Herring. It has to be USAgent, or whatever he calls himself.

You guys have to think about it: Would there REALLY be two Avengers teams without one of them having Captain America leading it?

And on top of that, you have Guardian, who always leads Alpha Flight. Why would they put two obvious candidates for field leader on the same team.

That is sooo USAgent.

[JohnLynch]

I think he is working in the Iron Man movie, so Marvel moved him from New AvengersBut what about the artistic integrity? Doesn't Marvel care about that anymore?

[beta-ray]

And I'm not pleased AT ALL with the 'Omega' Flight Line-Up - why 'Omega' for chrissakes?!? Does that mean that they're outranked by the non-entities in Gamma Flight, then? Or did it just sound 'kewl' in the brainstorming session? Sweet t*ttyf*cking Christmas... :mad: .

Why not Omega? And what is wrong with a name sounding "kewl"?

Though there have been Beta and Gamma flights (was there a Delta?), it doesn't mean they can't break format and go to Omega. Omega provides somewhat of a counterpoint to Alpha and this way it isn't Alpha Flight (hence not having every old Alpha Flight analogue)...

Regarding the other poster who mentioned Cap going to Canda and Millar's remarks. While it is true that there is wiggle room, what was said was that would show bad character if Cap did that. Even if Steve Rogers did that I would assume the same applied, so I hope it isn't Steve.

It interests me so I might pick it up. I am not a fan of Kollins, but it won't stop me from getting a comic that sounds interesting.

[doughboy]

this series has potential. i hope oeming & kolins make it a must read.

hey capt. dallas....you're not the same kieth who got bit in the ass by a snake, are you?

[Bloodmage]

I'm also guessing that the guy in that pic is NOT Steve Rogers. And yeah, that looks like Bill's head as the Thor guy. He just looks huge because Kolins' art sucks. Yeah, I said it, it's crap. His art looks sketchy, his anatomy is weird, and I've seen much better sequential art from guys who aren't even pros. It's kinda funny, fanboys love Kolins and hate Liefeld, but at least Liefeld's characters have energy and don't have inexplicable "squiggly" lines all over their bodies.

<img src="http://www.thepunisher.com/past_news/february_2005/mtu_8_800.jpg">

Seriously, what the hell? Look at Blade's face? Is he flexing his cheek muscles?

I was happy to hear about Omega Flight, I was happy to hear Oeming was writing it. Then I saw Kolins' name and there went any desire to get this. The only hope I have is that he's off the book quickly as he usually doesn't stick around too long....

[BruceWayneJr]

Ladies and gentlemen: presenting, the creative process of Brian Michael Bendis

With that, Cebulski began to end the discussion, but Bendis suddenly reacted to the idea of Hulk
being part of <b>Civil War</b>. "He's going to be pretty pissed when he comes back, though," Bendis said. "It would be pretty bad if he showed up right there. That would be like dropping a bomb on these guys in the middle of the fight. That would be like the Marvel equivalent of Hiroshima. It's just like this giant thing just happened in the middle of a war. It would change the whole thing. Wow. That <i>would</i> be crazy."

[jamdav86]

Regarding "Omega Flight,"

I just posted my interview of Oeming and Kolins regarding their new title:

http://www.silverbulletcomicbooks.com/features/115723113681308.htm

The promotional image that Marvel provided me is *somewhat* illuminating about the cast of the book.
http://www.silverbulletcomicbooks.com/features/images/0608/omega/omegaflight.jpgInteresting...

[JR2]

Looking forward to Omega Flight, though I'm not crazy about Kollins art.


Same here.

Interesting line up for sure.

[Layters]

Im not a fan of Alpha Flight books not about Alpha Flight. At this point Im pretending this book has no realtion to Alpha Flight. Not sure Oeming is a strong enough writer to pull tis book off with this cast but ill check it out anyways.

Apparently USAagent is getting a name change during Civil War. This is probably him under a new name.

Also I think Guardian is Clint Barton.

[dvitali]

Good Call on Tailsman (I forgot about her) I was going to say it was Northstar sister (the spelling of her name I forgot) of the Weapon X fame, Because the picture have the Northern Lights, But in the last month or so I read that she turn evil again.

Its look to me that it is Beta Ray Bill if you look at the eyes and notice the slants

I beleive it it is Steve Rogers as Cap because I think I read that rumor in WIZARD not Newsarama.

[EmeraldGuy32]

Another Oeming book! It's Christmas in the EmeraldGuy house tonight! :p

[razorwing77]

Scott Kolins on Omega Flight? Why not Rob Liefeld? They BOTH suck!
That's another MARVEL book that sounds interesting but I won't regret passing-up.

I'd rather another artist be involved as well. I just can't get into Kolins' style, although at least his sotrytelling's not bad, and he works fast.

It'll take a really awesome roster (Cap may be enough if that's really him) for me to get past the art and buy the book.

[Dwight Williams]

i've always wonder....is the Alpha Flight really that popular in the first place ? Their book always had a short lifespan.

Their first series ran for ten years.

Ten years.

Says something, doesn't it?

[bob_at_york]

Also I think Guardian is Clint Barton.
what makes you think that? I am just curious.

[capt._dallas]

this series has potential. i hope oeming & kolins make it a must read.

hey capt. dallas....you're not the same kieth who got bit in the ass by a snake, are you?

LOL! No, I'm not that Keith Dallas. No Hollywood career for me. My skin color is different too. And I'm not as physically impressive as my "doppleganger."

Same cool name though. :)

[motteditor]

"There was no way me and McNiven were going to show up in this country without announcing a new Alpha Flight," Bendis said.


You know, I usually like Bendis' sense of humor in his interviews, but this bugs me. You give a team a godawful supposed death scene and smirk about it. Why not write these things properly or not do them in the first place. I'll check out Omega Flight but I'm getting sick of that. I really wish someone would off Jessica Jones and then chuckle about it.

Sentry will not be whining as much and there will be more things for him to fight that are worthy of his time.

Since his main fighting style seems to be immediately killing the enemy and knowing Bendis can't actually write decent fight scenes, I hope they're not established Marvel threats. I'd really rather not see some of my favorite bad guys get offed for no reason.

Will any heroes become villains?

Iron Man already has. If Thor really is responsible for the death in CW4, I'd say you can add him to that list also.

With that, Cebulski began to end the discussion, but Bendis suddenly reacted to the idea of Hulk being part of Civil War. "He's going to be pretty pissed when he comes back, though," Bendis said.

As well he should be. Speaking of villains, can probably add Reed Richards to that list. Stupid monologues like telling someone you're responsible for sending them off their homeworld is a staple of villains.

[twincast]

I think it's pretty ovious so far:
Talisman
Arachne
Guardian (which one I ain't sure)
U.S. Agent (most likely. if so he's got to change his name. *shrug* maybe it's Clint, would make more sense, actually.)
Beta Ray Bill

anyway, can't say I'm too hyped about it, but I'll check it out.

[tbumpkins]

Beta Ray Bill!!


As someone whose semi-enjoyed previous forms of Alpha Flight and a big BRB fan, I am crazy excited for this team :D As for the others, feel that has to be Arachne/Carpenter over Drew or Arana, although I like the idea someone mentioned, that she might've smuggled Iron-spider armor over the border. Can go either way with it being Cap or USAgent, although seems it would be a bigger deal if that's Rogers I just don't see him in a secondary position to Guardian. And yea, pretty sure that's just Guardian since MAO said in the interview one AF member comes back.

Seems like crazy fun too, with Oeming saying they're gonna take on big, supernatural threats. And I thought Kolins work on "Earth's Mightiest" and "Blood Oath" was just gorgeous, it can miss at times. Thinking not though on this book. Could be just the Bill love, but this beats out that new Avengers book for me on "Can't wait Team Book Post-CW".....unless Slott's new book is Defenders :p

[Dana P.]

If Thor really is responsible for the death in CW4, I'd say you can add him to that list also.

Yikes, that would be a major slap in the face for all of us Thor fans who have been waiting for his return.

[cygor68]

not too crazy about the line-up:
Guardian/Vindicator - Every canadian team needs one. wouldnt be the same without their verdion of Captain A.
Beta Ray Bill - LOVE BRB...But seems out of place here....
USAgent / Captain A - Sorry...Not needed(or wanted) - Team already has Major MapleLeaf.....Err...Captain Canuck....Too many chiefs ruin the stew (or is that chefs?)
Arachne/ Iron Spiderwoman - Nope gots to go....Crappy character......Some get the Raid too many bugs as it is.
Talisman- Meh...not bad, Prefer Shaman, But close enough and it wouldnt be a ____ Flight team without a magic/mystic character.

A MAJOR complaint I have is the lack of Sasquatch....By far my favorite. I know ...Dead is dead (yeah right) -

There are lots of great characters that would be a perfect fit/match for this team....
Any suggestions?
Who would you swap ot for your perfect Omega Flight?

[Redmond]

Ahah, Bendis is very clever for a balding "professional" writer that still doesn't know how to use spell check. I'm really sick of reading interviews or seeing panels and being insulted by nerds who don't even know they are nerds. ie most of the the comics creators.

I don't care about their hot life style, I already got one myself. Also, I don't need stripers to get attention from a hot girl, unlike the BIG PARTY HARD 40 YEAR OLD maaarveeeeeeeel duuuddeeeeesss. So, haha! And I can't stand seeing those dumb whores they meet being rewriten ad nauseam into every X-Men book as Emma Frost and Mystique either. Since I know much higher quality women than that in real life. I don't want to read about those Anna Nicole Smith level tarts. Seriously, the quality of female role models in Marvel books has gone to hell since 2000. Another thing affecting my decision. If it's not an XBook, you get SpiderWoman shoved into you. Another, very lame, female character.

Marvel Comics can rot in hell as far as I'm concerned. I already know they're too good for their audience, I just don't care! What happened to comics that it's the National Enquire about aging wannabe frat boys now? Everything's a dumb rehash with same characters and same conflicts milked to death. What happened to customer service and respecting your clients? I'm boycotting all Marvel books including the Essentials just because of Bendis, Millar and Quesada's smug self-satisfied attitude.

[ME5]

Hello.

To Redmond: Good for you! Stand up to the man and boycott what you don't like. I approve.

I think you should go all out in your campaign and even boycott Marvel threads on Newsarama! Go for the gusto, the whole cigar, baby! Give it to Marvel. Quit the comics AND don't ever reply to another Marvel thread! You will feel better.

You go, big guy!

Be Well...:)

[Spartan]

Hello.

To Redmond: Good for you! Stand up to the man and boycott what you don't like. I approve.

I think you should go all out in your campaign and even boycott Marvel threads on Newsarama! Go for the gusto, the whole cigar, baby! Give it to Marvel. Quit the comics AND don't ever reply to another Marvel thread! You will feel better.

You go, big guy!

Be Well...:)

Hahaha, seconded! Go cold turkey man, all the way! Better yet, go complain on the DC boards -- rally supporters! Buy everything with lesbians in it!

[stvnhthr]

Byrne's run on Alpha Flight is one of my all time favorite archs. Marvel could we get an essential collection of those first 25 issues?

[Spartan]

Byrne's run on Alpha Flight is one of my all time favorite archs. Marvel could we get an essential collection of those first 25 issues?

An Essential Alpha Flight?? F--- Yeah! Make it so, Joe!

[Sean Walsh]

"There was no way me and McNiven were going to show up in this country without announcing a new Alpha Flight," Bendis said.

So naturally they announce OMEGA Flight. :rolleyes: :p

[paulski]

Here's some gripes - live with it:

1) It must just be me, but the whole thing with Bendis in the audience sure sounded like a childish stunt.
2) Kolins on art? Pass. Which is a shame - I might have liked this. :(
3) Looking at the art that was posted, how the heck is that anything resembling an Alpha (yeah yeah, Omega then) Flight team? Spider-Woman and Beta Ray Bill? The Captain/Captain America? Isn't it really just Avengers North? Weird.

[ME5]

Hello.

To paulski:

1--It was childish and fun, according to the people I know who were actually present. Comics ARE supposed to be fun, so why not let the guy have some? Yeesh, tough crowd!! ;)

2--I agree with you about Kollins' art...:(

3--It totally seems like Avengers North, based on that cover image. I hope that there are more Canadian characters on the team, or that there is one heck of a good explanation within the comic to justify why there are so many non-Canadians on the team.

4--Did you notice Johns' announcement that he will be doing All Star Batgirl in over a year from now? Wouldn't you agree that he announced it a bit too early?

Be Well...:)

[The Rich]

looks like Thor and Spider Woman along with Gladiator

I'm trying to guess... US Agent? Or Captain America?

and as that Storm? or maybe another Canadian hero?

From L-R, Talisman (Shaman's Daughter), Arana (I hope not), Guardian, Cap, Mecha-Thor?

[The Champion]

Just to confirm it, the big guy IS Beta Ray Bill. JoeQ gave it away in a previous Joe Friday's column.

Q: "Howard Duck" asks: Joe, In recapping my knowledge of C and D list heroes, I came across the Wikipedia entry for Beta Ray Bill, and at the bottom it says "An ongoing series prominently featuring/starring Bill is due to start in December 2006, written by Mike Oeming". Now I can't really recall when this announcement was made (probably a little time after Beta Ray Bill's mini wrapped up), but I was wondering what's the latest news about this project.

JQ: Howard, the reason you don't remember the announcement is because there wasn't any such announcement that I'm aware of. But, that said, Oeming will not be writing a Beta Ray Bill book any time in the near future but he will be writing Beta Ray Bill. Okay, I hope that clears things up for you.

And there's your answer. :)

As for who the guy with the shield is, I don't think it's Captain America because of what Mark Millar said in an interview here a while back..
http://www.newsarama.com/marvelnew/millar/millar_2.html

Mark Millar: "Cap doesn't flee for Canada because that's just bloody stupid and completely out of character."
And secondly, Mike Oeming gave an interview about Omega Flight series and says it is NOT about American heroes fleeing to Canada.</FONT></B>
http://www.silverbulletcomicbooks.com/features/115723113681308.htm

So those two things lead me to believe that the guy with the shield is not Cap. And the Omega Flight team isn't composed of a bunch of American heroes.

[SmileOnADog]

Sucks to be Canadia, first they get rid of your most iconic heroes. Then they replace them with crappy American knockoffs.

Sux 2 B U!

-------------------
I know it's Canada... hence "teh funny".

"teh" funny? I think it's a sloppy typer instead.

[paulski]

1--It was childish and fun, according to the people I know who were actually present. Comics ARE supposed to be fun, so why not let the guy have some? Yeesh, tough crowd!! ;)

If it was just an isolated incident, you'd have a point. But it seems to be the way these guys conduct business these days - all shock value and so-called 'fun' stunts. This one just came across as self-indulgent to me.

2--I agree with you about Kollins' art...:(

Yeah, crazy, isn't it. I don't see this one getting past 12 issues either. :(

3--It totally seems like Avengers North, based on that cover image. I hope that there are more Canadian characters on the team, or that there is one heck of a good explanation within the comic to justify why there are so many non-Canadians on the team.
As I mentioned in another post elsewhere (actually, on Comicon, come to think of it), I expect there to be more team members than just those in that preview art, specifically some of the old Alpha, Beta, Gamma and Omega characters. But it's weird that the 'headline acts' are mostly American. :confused:

4--Did you notice Johns' announcement that he will be doing All Star Batgirl in over a year from now? Wouldn't you agree that he announced it a bit too early?
Perhaps. A lot can change in a year. But if it means that JG can get some issues in the bank, I'm all for it. And whilst Batgirl seems a strange choice, I'll be there with bells on. :)

[turkproverb]

Omega flight, HM? I might have to forgive Bendis for killing Alpha Flight.

[Spartan]

As I mentioned in another post elsewhere (actually, on Comicon, come to think of it), I expect there to be more team members than just those in that preview art, specifically some of the old Alpha, Beta, Gamma and Omega characters. But it's weird that the 'headline acts' are mostly American. :confused:

It's "weird" that a comic targeted at Americans (mostly) is made up of bankable American superheroes?

[The Champion]

It's "weird" that a comic targeted at Americans (mostly) is made up of bankable American superheroes?
We don't know if any American heroes are in it. Especially since Mike Oeming said the book isn't about American heroes fleeing America.

[Spartan]

We don't know if any American heroes are in it. Especially since Mike Oeming said the book isn't about American heroes fleeing America.

Soooooo, you think that Wolverine stole Captain America's shield so he could pose for Omega Flight? The book isn't about Americans fleeing as a core theme, but that doesn't mean that there won't be any Americans on the team.

[Finger13105]

It was an awesome panel, my first time seing creators in person. I got to ask Bendis a quick question after it..."When you wrote the "Deadpool" arc for ultimate spider-man, did you actually read any past Deadpool stories?" He answered with humor, and anyone who is a fan of Deadpool knows what I am talking about. He's one of my favourite if not favourite writer, so I was in awe. I like to see him on the the Cobert Report.

[SmileOnADog]

Perhaps the big Thor-type character is actually Delphine Courtney and it's all another plan to re-kill Mac Hudson? Mac has come back to life more times than any other character in comics besides, perhaps, Metamorpho.

[tridon]

Wolverine should leave Avengers and go to Omega Flight. It'd make more sense.

[The Champion]

Perhaps the big Thor-type character is actually Delphine Courtney and it's all another plan to re-kill Mac Hudson? Mac has come back to life more times than any other character in comics besides, perhaps, Metamorpho.
Nope, it's Beta Ray Bill. Read the quote I posted earlier. JoeQ gives it away.

[ME5]

Hello.

To spartan: Normally, I agree with a lot of what you say. This time, I must disagree...:D Yes, it is "weird" to have a Canadian team of heroes that appear to only have 2 actual Canadians on it. Now, as Paul pointed out, I doubt that image shows the whole roster. However, I truly think a Canadian team should showcase at least as many, if not more, Canadian based heroes. The U.S. is the main target for Marvel's comic sales, but that does not mean that only American heroes need be on every Marvel super hero team.

That said, I still hope that is Steve Rogers with the shield...;)

Be Well...:)

[Spartan]

To spartan: Normally, I agree with a lot of what you say. This time, I must disagree...:D Yes, it is "weird" to have a Canadian team of heroes that appear to only have 2 actual Canadians on it. Now, as Paul pointed out, I doubt that image shows the whole roster. However, I truly think a Canadian team should showcase at least as many, if not more, Canadian based heroes. The U.S. is the main target for Marvel's comic sales, but that does not mean that only American heroes need be on every Marvel super hero team.

That said, I still hope that is Steve Rogers with the shield...

Like Oeming said in his interview, it's obvious that the Canadian aspect alone is not enough to sell this book. With Alpha Flight presumably dead, that really narrows down the number of Canadian born superheroes in the Marvel Universe. So, not only does have more Americans (or even other allegiences) make sense for an OMEGA (not Alpha) Flight book marketing wise, there are also story reasons (loss of Alpha, Civil War pressure).

Would I like to see an all Canadian team sell well? F-- yeah! But, alas, I'll settle with Marvel giving us a few bankable heavywieghts like Beta Ray and Steve Rogers (man, how ballsy would that be!), and even someone from the Spider family. I think we'll see more Canadian based heroes as the series progresses.

[King_Mungi]

Nice new sig :)

[Spartan]

Nice new sig :)

Thanks! It seemed to fit the moment.

[SmileOnADog]

Nope, it's Beta Ray Bill. Read the quote I posted earlier. JoeQ gives it away.

I know. I was kidding.:D

Let me also say I would love an Essential Alpha Flight.

And does anyone know the fate of these Alphans: Box, Wildchild, Diamond Lil, Persuassion, Manikin, Witchfire, Goblyn and her sister, Flex, Earthmover, and Windshear?

[paulski]

Yes, it is "weird" to have a Canadian team of heroes that appear to only have 2 actual Canadians on it. Now, as Paul pointed out, I doubt that image shows the whole roster. However, I truly think a Canadian team should showcase at least as many, if not more, Canadian based heroes.
And it'd be such a simple solution, Mike. They only need to include the big guns - Guardian/Vindicator (or whatever he's called this week), Sasquatch, a Snowbird or Aurora or Northstar, and then you can fill out the rest to your heart's delight with Beta Ray Bill, et al. Hell, as others have pointed out, stick Wolverine on the team. It's a brilliant idea! That would be a realistic 'Flight' team.

But no, that would puncture New Avengers' sales, wouldn't it. And Bendis and Marvel couldn't have that happen... :( :p

[ME5]

Hello.

To paulski and spartan:

I just read what Oeming wrote on the other thread about Omega Flight. He claims Marvel is really going to push this team and is very behind it.

I disagree.

If Marvel truly wanted this book to do well, they should have put Wolverine on the team and assigned an "A" list artist (no offence to Mr. Kollins). Now, I have no doubt that Marvel wants this title to succeed, but they certainly aren't stacking the deck in the title's favour. I'm thinking starting sales in the 50-70 000 range (if there is a variant for issue #1), with overall decline to the 30 000 or less range by issue #12.

Please understand, I am not bashing the title or the creators, I am simply being realistic. Anyone with any knowledge about comics could make this prediction. If Marvel wanted Omega Flight to be a blockbuster, they would have done something to push it as such:either Wolverine or an "A" list artist. I don't see that here.

Comments??

Be Well...:)

[Darth Tigris]

- Will any heroes become villains? "You'll have to keep reading," Cebulski said. "You're going to see heroes turn into villains, villains turn into heroes, cats and dogs living together, mass hysteria," Bendis added.

YES! Bendis channels Peter Venkman!

[motteditor]

And does anyone know the fate of these Alphans: Box, Wildchild, Diamond Lil, Persuassion, Manikin, Witchfire, Goblyn and her sister, Flex, Earthmover, and Windshear?

Box, as far as I know, hasn't really been seen since he was captured by a version of Zodiac in v.2.

Don't think Wild Child has really been used since the end of v.1, but I seem to remember him being reverted to Wild Child.

Persuasion was supposedly in the Weapon X book, which I didn't read.

Diamond Lil was also in the Weapon X book, I think, which involved her still being contaminated by whatever it was from v.2.

Don't believe Manikin, Witchfire, Goblyn or Laura Dean have been seen since the end of v.1 (alas; I loved that version of Beta Flight).

Flex was, I think, depowered in Decimation but hasn't been seen since the end of v.2.

Not sure who Earthmover is/was.

Windshear was last seen, I think, in Thunderbolts volume 1. He was responsible for the mis-used hard air artifacts circa TBolts 25-30. The one time we saw him he was living the bohemian life in London, working as a hard air artist.

[Spartan]

Hello.

To paulski and spartan:

I just read what Oeming wrote on the other thread about Omega Flight. He claims Marvel is really going to push this team and is very behind it.

I disagree.

If Marvel truly wanted this book to do well, they should have put Wolverine on the team and assigned an "A" list artist (no offence to Mr. Kollins). Now, I have no doubt that Marvel wants this title to succeed, but they certainly aren't stacking the deck in the title's favour. I'm thinking starting sales in the 50-70 000 range (if there is a variant for issue #1), with overall decline to the 30 000 or less range by issue #12.

Please understand, I am not bashing the title or the creators, I am simply being realistic. Anyone with any knowledge about comics could make this prediction. If Marvel wanted Omega Flight to be a blockbuster, they would have done something to push it as such:either Wolverine or an "A" list artist. I don't see that here.

Comments??

While Wolverine would have been the obvious choice (and still might be), Quesada has already stated that they are trying hard to limit the number of appearences he makes in titles. Obviously, Bendis has first dibs as he writes the company's premiere title, but from the sound of the interview I don't think Oeming even wants Logan. And if that's really Steve Rogers on the team...well, it really doesn't get any more high profile then that.

As for Kollins....well, he wouldn't be my first choice (far from it), but then again, I can't for the life of me understand why John Romita Jr.'s stick man figures are considered "A-list". Again, I think this is Oeming's input -- he's already worked with Kollins and would have pushed for him (as he already stated). Besides, I think pretty much all of Marvel's top guns are locked on projects already. At the very least, there shouldn't be any delays on this title.

Much like Charlie Huston, I think Oeming was chosen as a "good fit" for this title with his mythology background and solid grasp of characterization (I don't even like Thor and I thought the 'Ragnarok' arc was brilliant). I think we'll all be pleasantly surprised by the direction of this title and how well it will be done.

Maybe it's not has high-profile as some would have liked, but let's not forget that Marvel was "behind" X-Factor/X-Statix, Runaways, and She-Hulk as well -- allowing very unique titles to survive far longer then it would otherwise.

[CaptainCanad]

Regarding Wolverine, you'd have to relocate him to Canada in order to really have him on the team, and there's no way that Marvel would take him out of the X-Mansion (or, for that matter, off New Avengers, their #1 title, written by their most profitable writer).

I think you could do some interesting things with a Canadian government team composed primarily of non-Canadians (although, like most here, I doubt this is the whole lineup). Anyway, there aren't that many Canadian heroes to choose from.

[paulski]

I just read what Oeming wrote on the other thread about Omega Flight. He claims Marvel is really going to push this team and is very behind it.

I disagree.

If Marvel truly wanted this book to do well, they should have put Wolverine on the team and assigned an "A" list artist (no offence to Mr. Kollins). Now, I have no doubt that Marvel wants this title to succeed, but they certainly aren't stacking the deck in the title's favour. I'm thinking starting sales in the 50-70 000 range (if there is a variant for issue #1), with overall decline to the 30 000 or less range by issue #12.
You're being optimistic, Mike. Unless there's a 'Civil War Aftermath' banner or some such thing slapped on the cover, I don't see this selling 50K. And I can see it slipping to mid-20's by #6 at latest, to be cancelled by #12. That's the dismal future I see for the title unless they've got some big surprises up their sleeves.

And as much as it would make sense to put Wolverine on this team, I can accept that it would be a bad business decision and hurt NA more than it would help OF, so I'm hardly going to blame them for that.

(edited because I can't spel)

[Jon Yeager]

Lemme get this straight.. so after stating that unlike what Rich Johnston unveiled months ago, Captain America and friends would NOT be moving to Canada to form a new Alpha Flight... Quesada and crew got around "outright lying" by simply renaming the team "Omega" Flight?

No freaking way :)

Since it's an ongoing and not a mini, even *I* would have a hard time buying that scenario. The Avengers are the new X-Men -- meaning that shelves will be flooded with Avengers books in the coming months/years until the bubble bursts again, as it did with the X-universe.

With Bendis bringing back Avengers West Coast / Force Works in the form of Mighty Avengers, Cap's got to stay with the New Avengers. Not even Bendis/Quesada would overreact to New Avengers sales enough to dilute the roster across *3* different teams overnight and hope to continue selling.

Then again... if the Liefeld era taught us anything...

Stark becoming a villain... Cap turning his back on his flag... The FF breaking up... variants / sketch books / director's cuts flooding the shelves to con the less alert of us into buying the same issue several times... FREAKING ONSLAUGHT RETURNING FOR ANOTHER ROUND...

...IT'S THE 90'S ALL OVER AGAIN, BABY! ;)

And somewhere in the back of the room, the X-Men are muttering : "Didn't what happened to us teach you people anything?"

Jon

[motteditor]

With Bendis bringing back Avengers West Coast / Force Works in the form of Mighty Avengers, Cap's got to stay with the New Avengers. Not even Bendis/Quesada would overreact to New Avengers sales enough to dilute the roster across *3* different teams overnight and hope to continue selling.

Hawkeye was the lynchpin of Avengers West. Mighty Avengers doesn't hold a candle to that title. Not to mention it's Bendis, so it certainly won't have the Avengers West feel to it. Omega Flight appears more like Avengers West/Force Works based on speculation about the roster.

[Jon Yeager]

Hawkeye was the lynchpin of Avengers West. Mighty Avengers doesn't hold a candle to that title. Not to mention it's Bendis, so it certainly won't have the Avengers West feel to it. Omega Flight appears more like Avengers West/Force Works based on speculation about the roster.

I was referring more to the fact that there will be a 2nd team at all (WCA) combined with the notion of Iron Man leading a bunch of people who feel the way he does about stuff (FW).

If you want to get truly technical about it, neither one will be based on the west coast, so neither could claim to be a WCA revival.

But it does say something about how much (lack of) effort today's decompressed writers put into each issue compared to how much guys like Englehart, Milgrom and Byrne did back in the day -- that they hope to not only sustain two Avengers titles, but have both written by the same guy... who's already got his hands full with Ultimate Spider-Man and who knows what else. That probably wouldn't have been possible in the 80's. I don't think they ever had the same writer on BOTH Avengers titles simultaneously.

That's why I don't have a hard time believing Bendis himself when he says he wrote the first issue of House of M on a paper napkin.

I'm sure he thought it was a funny thing to point out at the time, but what it says about what we're actually getting for our $3.50 vs what we used to get for our $1.25 is probably more than Bendis really wanted to share with us...

Jon

[Johnny Smith]

Hello.

To paulski and spartan:

I just read what Oeming wrote on the other thread about Omega Flight. He claims Marvel is really going to push this team and is very behind it.

I disagree.

If Marvel truly wanted this book to do well, they should have put Wolverine on the team and assigned an "A" list artist (no offence to Mr. Kollins). Now, I have no doubt that Marvel wants this title to succeed, but they certainly aren't stacking the deck in the title's favour. I'm thinking starting sales in the 50-70 000 range (if there is a variant for issue #1), with overall decline to the 30 000 or less range by issue #12.

Please understand, I am not bashing the title or the creators, I am simply being realistic. Anyone with any knowledge about comics could make this prediction. If Marvel wanted Omega Flight to be a blockbuster, they would have done something to push it as such:either Wolverine or an "A" list artist. I don't see that here.

Comments??

Be Well...:)

What "A" list artist would you put on the book? One of the Young Guns? Or is this a title they should have put somebody like JR Jr on?

I agree with you about the sales - I expect to see a Ms. Marvel sales curve on this title, unless there's a crossover with New Avengers or some gimmick.

[Johnny Smith]

But it does say something about how much (lack of) effort today's decompressed writers put into each issue compared to how much guys like Englehart, Milgrom and Byrne did back in the day -- that they hope to not only sustain two Avengers titles, but have both written by the same guy... who's already got his hands full with Ultimate Spider-Man and who knows what else. That probably wouldn't have been possible in the 80's. I don't think they ever had the same writer on BOTH Avengers titles simultaneously.


Jon

Well, Byrne did write both at the same time for a year during the late 1980s (Avengers 305-316, WCA 42-57). Byrne drew the WCA issues and Paul Ryan drew the Avengers issues.

Of course, he was in game shape - he'd just finished doing several Superman titles at the same time. (He wrote and drew Superman and Action for a year plus; then later he scripted Adventures of Superman for a while after Wolfman left while he was still writing and drawing Superman).

[Spartan]

I agree with you about the sales - I expect to see a Ms. Marvel sales curve on this title, unless there's a crossover with New Avengers or some gimmick.

How are Ms. Marvel's sales doing these days? Great title, love the character and direction.

[Johnny Smith]

How are Ms. Marvel's sales doing these days? Great title, love the character and direction.

These are American Direct Market only ...

51. MS MARVEL
Mar 06 Ms Marvel #1 - 73,407
Apr 06 Ms Marvel #2 - 46,204 (-37.1%)
May 06 Ms Marvel #3 - 43,048 ( -6.8%)
Jun 06 Ms Marvel #4 - 40,627 ( -5.6%)

But sure to get a Civil War boost when the tie-in issues come out ...

http://pwbeat.publishersweekly.com/blog/2006/07/20/marvel-month-to-month-sales-june-%e2%80%9906-by-paul-o%e2%80%99brien/

[Spartan]

These are American Direct Market only ...

51. MS MARVEL
Mar 06 Ms Marvel #1 - 73,407
Apr 06 Ms Marvel #2 - 46,204 (-37.1%)
May 06 Ms Marvel #3 - 43,048 ( -6.8%)
Jun 06 Ms Marvel #4 - 40,627 ( -5.6%)

But sure to get a Civil War boost when the tie-in issues come out ...

http://pwbeat.publishersweekly.com/blog/2006/07/20/marvel-month-to-month-sales-june-%e2%80%9906-by-paul-o%e2%80%99brien/

I hope so, it's a great title.

[KraziJoe]

Ray looks like he is wearing a Glove of Odin. Maybe that is why his size has increased?

The others can be debated for a while, but maybe they are members of the losing team? Maybe Steve Rogers does take time off and someone replaces him...Like his friend Hawkeye, cept Hawkeye is so PO'd at what happened he relocates to Canada?

The Spidergirl looking character? Not sure, Maybe they gave Speedball a sex change and moved him to Canada?

Looks like Talisman due to the Tiara/circlet on her head.

The Vindicator knockoff? Not sure Maybe it is Vindicator...

[parthuman]

I just hope somewhere in the book there is an actual Canadian and they aren't from Ontario or Quebec. Is it too much to ask for a hero from the Atlantic provinces? Probably, since most of the characters are probably dodging Civil War related issues in the U.S.


You could also have the stoner wing from the Western provinces.

[Dwight Williams]

Now if you're going to inflict that stereotype, whoever it is has to be from metropolitan Vancouver and nowhere else in the western provinces.

:(