JOSHUA MIDDLETON: BRINGING SHAZAM TO LIFE

[MattBrady]

It had been the question left open since the announcement that Joshua Middleton had signed an exclusive contract with DC – what will he draw? Come summer of next year, the answer will be very clear: First Thunder a four issue miniseries, written by Judd Winick that chronicles the first meeting of Superman and Captain Marvel, aka Shazam.

For Middleton, the choice of a project came after he had signed with the publisher, once the door was thrown open, and his options were laid out in front of him.

”There wasn't a project already lined up, but it didn't take very long to find me something to do,” Middleton said. “In my first meeting with the ever-energetic Dan Didio at the DC offices we discussed the type of project I was aiming to work on, and my number one request was that it be something more fantastic than what I had been doing, something more magical. I really wanted a chance to draw something bigger than life.”

Didio tossed a few bones Middleton’s way, and for the artist, Shazam had just the right mix of ingredients. “Dan really seemed to understand what I was grasping for creatively and I think the mention of ‘magical’ was key in bringing Shazam to the table,” Middleton said. “Dan mentioned that it was also one of his goals to bring some magic back to the DC universe as a lot of that aspect had been stripped away over recent years, and Shazam really seemed to embody all of that. Nothing was decided at that first meeting, but of the things we talked about, Shazam struck me as having real potential. All of the characters and stories Dan mentioned were exciting in their own way, but I was certain of the feel I was after; I needed to draw something magical, but still an ass-kicking, bigger-than-life adventure, and perhaps most importantly, it had to remain intimate and character driven. It wasn't long before I got a call from Judd Winick to talk about this story he'd been wanting to tell for a very long time, and as it happens it was very magically kick-ass indeed.”

While Winick had been nurturing the story of the first meeting of Superman and Shazam for a long time, Middleton was somewhat neutral on the character of Captain Marvel prior to landing the project, if for no other reason than he considers himself not too superhero literate.

“I will say that my idea of a superhero is based more in nostalgia, but strangely enough nostalgia for an era in which I hadn't been born, if such a thing is possible,” Middleton said. “Some of it is in the design of it all, the golden age of illustration the world was enjoying in the '30s and '40s, but it does seem that the comic book superhero somehow made more sense, that the design and sensibilities seemed more appropriate in a way. Perhaps it is partly the result of the world we live in or perhaps just the constant ‘deconstruction’ of the superhero by tired old men, but I find the nostalgic charm of many classic heroes becoming increasingly valid today, and Captain Marvel is a fine example of a classic hero with broad, almost timeless appeal if treated respectfully and done right. Needless to say, the same holds true for many of DC's heroes, something I have gained a new respect for.”

Along with being a classic hero birthed around the eras that Middleton finds himself artistically drawn to, Captain Marvel presents some unique challenges in his own right in regards to illustration. First off, the Bill Batson – Captain Marvel “look.” Should they look, respectively like a kid and his dad? A child and the adult version of themselves?

“I can see a challenge in drawing an imposing figure with childlike qualities and not having them come off as a big dolt, but it hasn't been as difficult as I imagined it could have been,” Middleton explained. “Granted, it is early days and I still have much to draw, but I think I have been aided immensely by the characterization contained within the story. Mike Carlin, my esteemed editor on this project, was kind enough to send me a stack of reference early on for a solid foundation on which to build my interpretation of Captain Marvel and his world, and I am happy to say that Judd's writing has really captured the wondrous spirit a story like Captain Marvel's really should have. Believing in the character has made him so much easier to draw. Now, what it is in the drawing that brings the youthful innocence to Captain Marvel and the heroic responsibility to little Billy is hard to say exactly, but I think beyond the obvious similarities in facial features it is in their body language and poise, and the knowledge behind every line as I draw it that they are in fact the same person.”

And those eyes? Open and round, or the C.C. Beck-esque slits? In recent years, Captain Marvel has been shown with both…

“Now that's an interesting question. I should amend what I said earlier to say that beyond body language, it's in the eyes. Come to think of it, Captain Marvel's nose is pretty important as well. I think the Captain Marvel squint is great characterization, and one that really lends itself to expressing that slightly sneaky quality boys often have when plotting some dastardly deed, or in Cap's case, outwitting a villain. It is a great connection to the youthful spirit Captain Marvel embodies.”

Along those lines, Middleton said that in First Thunder, Captain Marvel will have the opportunity to “physicalize” his respective attributes – that is, someone with the wisdom of Solomon has a certain way of holding themselves and confidence that has to come through on the printed page.

“Those qualities tend to materialize in the visuals when the moment calls for them,” Middleton said. “It is fairly complicated being Captain Marvel, so his expression should hopefully run the gamut from playful kid to almighty Zeus, and he has plenty of opportunity to test most aspects of his powers in this story.”

Of course add to all of this, the fact that Captain Marvel isn’t the sole superhero in the story – that is, Captain Marvel and Superman need to look distinct from one another as well. “This really comes down to body language, and they really do hold themselves differently, at least I hope I can succeed in expressing that,” Middleton said. “Again, if I keep in mind the history and distinctive qualities of the character as I draw, Superman's lines just tend to arrange themselves a bit more authoritatively, maybe even a little regal. I don't want him to come off as arrogant, but his otherworldly, slightly above-it-all nature is just a byproduct of the fact that he simply is Superman, which would naturally put the shoulders back and the chest out a little. On the other hand, Captain Marvel is really a boy inside this immensely powerful being, and his posture should reflect that. He is not always aware of himself as a God-like man, and when he is, he would tend to ham it up a little more, to lay on the hero thing a little thick, whereas Superman just carries it always. I really enjoy the subtle contrast when the two are played against one another.”

Working with Winick, Middleton continues his run of working with writers who are also artists (prior to this, he worked with Marvel Editor in Chief Joe Quesada on NYX) – something which he finds not to be rife with the pitfalls some may think.

“Truth be told, all writers should have a visual understanding of the subject matter or they shouldn't be writing, or should perhaps stick to television, which might explain the compelling ‘reality’ programming to be found there,” Middleton said. “I can also see how two opposing views of what the finished product should be could potentially cause problems, but I think if a writer wishes to see something realized just as they believe they imagined, they'd be better served to draw it themselves. I am generally not interested in realizing other people's visions for them as I don't believe that is a collaboration and I don't want my strengths as an artist and individual to be marginalized. Every comic artist would like to think they are hired to bring their unique skills to the project. Of course, the goals of that project should be understood from the outset as well as what the individual creators' roles will be. If everyone is on the same page, then the team approach can really create work that is greater than the sum of its parts.

“Thankfully, Judd completely understands what he is writing, why he is writing it, and the medium he is writing for. I have been given a genuine comic book script in that it plays to the medium's strengths, as well as my own, thereby providing me an opportunity to excel at what I've been hired to do. I give credit to DC for taking a considered approach when lining up this project.”

And as with NYX and his, unfortunately, only teases at Sky Between Branches, when Middleton talks about providing the art for a project, he means just that – providing all of it, pencils, inks, and color.

“I just can't see it any other way,” Middleton said. “I don't see images in my imagination and think, ‘I'd like to complete 33% of that and hand it off to two people I don't really know for completion.’ I think the separation we have of the processes involved in creating a comic is the result of the technology and economics of yesteryear. It has bred some intensely talented specialists, but I don't count myself amongst that group. The production line is American comic book history and it certainly has its place, and has obviously created some legendary collaborations and wonderful work, but too often that wonderful work is despite the process. Everyone tends to acknowledge the great teams of the past, the moments when all of the art seemed to click, but I would reckon that for every one of those moments there are at least ten where the penciler is trying to muster the will to live upon viewing their butchered work, back from the colorist all whored-up in neon hues and ‘rendered’ features. I'd rather avoid all of that by taking on the burden of full color art and collaborating only when I feel there is something that needs done that I am incapable of doing. I don't know that this approach results in anything more than art that I can truly call my own.”

Coming at it from that approach, Middleton said that it takes him “as long as I have” to complete an issue’s worth of art. “If First Thunder is scheduled to be released in the summer of 2005, the series will be done on time, having started it a couple months ago. If it were scheduled for release in winter 2015, it'd probably be done just in time. It's never really done, you just have to let go. Or allow an editor to rip it from your hands. Or need a paycheck. All of those things, really.”

So – what’s coming after Mike Carlin rips the final pages of First Thunder from Middleton’s hands? Good question.

“It’s really much too early to say,” Middleton said. “I prefer to keep the focus on the project at hand for now, though when my mind does wander it still ends up contemplating my poor little creator-owned project, Sky Between Branches. That and the inevitable world domination by monkeys atop armored ostriches. I've been thinking about that a lot lately. So, I don't know. We'll see what's in the cards after Captain Marvel and Superman do their thing.”

[charles]

i loved Middleton's short-lived run on NYX. his art was beyond fantastic. i will definitely pick this up next summer!

[Spider-Friends]

Originally posted by MattBrady
Didio tossed a few bones Middleton’s way...

Say...er...what happened to Jeff Smith's Shazam project?

Great art, btw.

[render man]

That pic with Cap and Supes is AMAZING! I love both these characters a lot and Middleton is an a list artist. Cant wait to get this.
The Jeff Smith project is still on, Last I heard he's working on it still, a release date? I dont know.

[meek?]

I'll definitely be pickin' this joint up! I've been wonderin' what was up w/ Middleton.

And Winnick's writin' is icin' on the cake.

Peace...

[Aaron]

Hmm... I go into this with a mixed feeling. First of all, yes, the art above does look beautiful. Good job, Mr. Middleton! However, I've seen enough of his artwork elsewhere to know that by and large it doesn't usually result in anything nearly as nice on a consistent basis.

The other thing that this project has going against it is that it's yet another in a string of retellings of stories that have already been told. I'd much rather see a NEW story featuring Cap and Supes than a rehash of a something that's already been done. Part of the reason why the Ultimate books don't appeal to me. You can dress it up in a new coat of paint, but I can't shake the feeling that it's nothing new underneath.

Aaron

[FIG]

This art looks great, the coloring is very strong.

[Dougie02]

Whats with all of the trolls as of late?

This book sounds interesting. I have always been interested in Capt Marvel.

[KET]

Actually, I find Middleton's art to be VERY pretty overall. But on the downside, he's saddled with the hackwork of Winnick and the fact that this tale HAS BEEN DONE so many times before. So I find it rather unlikely that there'll be much 'magic' being conjured up by such a thoroughly redundant mini. Too bad DC couldn't be bothered to come up with anything truly innovative for Middleton's talents, ala NYX.

[gwangung]

Originally posted by KET
Actually, I find Middleton's art to be VERY pretty overall. But on the downside, he's saddled with the hackwork of Winnick and the fact that this tale HAS BEEN DONE so many times before.

Refresh my memory...how many times has it been done before? Post and pre-Crisis?

[cyclopsfan]

lets see.... four months ago, he had a page of poison ivy art i think... now... THIS summer.. he is doing a miniseries!!!

My GOD HOW DO HIS FINGERS DO IT!!!


Seriously... a year now... and in four months we will have 4 issues.


Big deal.

[stlfan79]

I will buy anything this man does. I have loved his work since Meridian and am amazed how much he has grown since. It is scary that I thought so highly of him years ago and yet he is leaps and bounds above that now. The sky is the limit with Josh, the only fear for me is that he tires of the realm of comics and moves into greener pastures for higher monetary rewards.

[render man]

Originally posted by cyclopsfan
lets see.... four months ago, he had a page of poison ivy art i think... now... THIS summer.. he is doing a miniseries!!!

My GOD HOW DO HIS FINGERS DO IT!!!


Seriously... a year now... and in four months we will have 4 issues.


Big deal.

This is what happens in the modern era of comic art. Its become a very sophisticated, almost a "fine art" sorts of expression for a lot of artists. Its really a matter of objectivity when it comes to whether you like it or not. I dont mind waiting for a really well crafted piece of art. Yes I refered to a comic book as a piece of art. I honestly can do with out the assembly line, (as Middleton stated in the above article) get em in and crank em out kind of comic. Is that because I am older and have more patience these days. Probably. Probably some other factors too.

[Sean Walsh]

“I prefer to keep the focus on the project at hand for now, though when my mind does wander it still ends up contemplating my poor little creator-owned project, Sky Between Branches. That and the inevitable world domination by monkeys atop armored ostriches. I've been thinking about that a lot lately.

Well no wonder the guy's been known (now and then) to be a bit slow with his art.

This would concern the *#&$ out of me too!

[United Comics]

Originally posted by Spider-Friends
Say...er...what happened to Jeff Smith's Shazam project?

Still in the works, but still coming.

[Zadillo]

Originally posted by cyclopsfan
lets see.... four months ago, he had a page of poison ivy art i think... now... THIS summer.. he is doing a miniseries!!!

My GOD HOW DO HIS FINGERS DO IT!!!


Seriously... a year now... and in four months we will have 4 issues.


Big deal.

Umm, why are you being so negative about him? Why does the amount of work he's done so far and what he has lined up in the future matter to you?

I just don't get it. Are you upset because he isn't doing more, or are you upset because DC signed him to an exclusive deal? Or do you just not like him?

Seriously, what's the deal here? What did Middleton do to deserve this kind of post?

-Zadillo

[Erikonil]

Off hand, I'd imagine that Cyclopsfan is probibly reffering to the rather....sketchy shipping of NYX.

I like his art myself, it's rather unique in what can sometimes seem to be an industry that is swiming with people who try and replicate other people's styles.

That being said, I also worry that he might be another artist who signs up to do something that he finds great to do, but gets board with it a bit further down the line.

[Zadillo]

Originally posted by Erikonil
Off hand, I'd imagine that Cyclopsfan is probibly reffering to the rather....sketchy shipping of NYX.

I like his art myself, it's rather unique in what can sometimes seem to be an industry that is swiming with people who try and replicate other people's styles.

That being said, I also worry that he might be another artist who signs up to do something that he finds great to do, but gets board with it a bit further down the line.

But the sketchy shipping of NYX had nothing to do with Middleton. It had to do with Quesada not taking it seriously (note that it's not like NYX suddenly started shipping on time when Middleton left).

Either way, I don't think there's anything in Middleton's history to indicate that he gets bored with something down the line after a while.

As I understand it, with NYX, he didn't get "bored" with it, but he was tired of waiting around for Quesada to deliver scripts that he didn't seem to be serious about completing. And who can blame him?

-Zadillo

[Ras Al Ghul]

This sounds awesome. FULL pencils, inks, and colors by Middleton? DC really let him go all-out and gave him the time and space to accomplish what he wanted. Bravo to them.

Also notice how he said he wanted to do something "larger-than-life" and "magical", elements that have been missing from a large portion of Marvel of late. I definitely agree that DC is the best place to find exciting superheroics and modern mythology.

[Ras Al Ghul]

Originally posted by cyclopsfan
lets see.... four months ago, he had a page of poison ivy art i think... now... THIS summer.. he is doing a miniseries!!!

My GOD HOW DO HIS FINGERS DO IT!!!


Seriously... a year now... and in four months we will have 4 issues.


Big deal.

He is PENCILLING, INKING, and COLORING the whole thing. I hope you're not criticizing Middleton while a fan of artists like Frank Quitely and Alex Ross, because they do the exact same kind of approach with their work (well, not the coloring in Quitely's case).

Seriously, why are you complaining? He's doing three times the amount of work of a regular artist, and thus he's delivering three times less the amount of output (in issues) of a regular artist. It makes sense.

[Ras Al Ghul]

Originally posted by Dougie02
Whats with all of the trolls as of late?

I hope you're not defining a "troll" as "anyone who isn't supportive of what you're supportive of and has their own opinions". Everyone is entitled to their opinion.

I mean, I may not agree with Republicans, but I wouldn't say that over half of America are trolls.

[beta-ray]

Middleton has been impressive in the past... though I haven't seen THAT much from him. I'm not very interested in Superman or Shazzam, but will likely pick this up.

[cyclopsfan]

all i was saying, is it's been well over six months... and to my knowledge there hasn't been a single issue of anything. I followed him during his tenure at marvel, and absolutely loved his work when it came out.

While Quesada has rightfully taken the brunt of criticism of the NYX debacle, I fail to see where Middleton has escaped a rep of a late artist.

At the end of his 2 run tenure, we will see how many.... 6, 8 books? I wouldn't get my hopes up.... we haven't seen 1 yet.

My apologies for negativity aimed at his work. When it does hit the stands, it is unparalleled by most. I just don't see it hitting the stands enough.

Edited because I incorrectly stated it had been over a year... it's been over 6 months. Apologies

[raven1979]

At the end of his 2 run tenure, we will see how many.... 6, 8 books? I wouldn't get my hopes up.... we haven't seen 1 yet.

He already did a Zealot story for the Wildstorm special.

[Arnout]

Originally posted by raven1979
At the end of his 2 run tenure, we will see how many.... 6, 8 books? I wouldn't get my hopes up.... we haven't seen 1 yet.

He already did a Zealot story for the Wildstorm special.

And what beautiful art is was once more. The story was fun, though a bit pointless, because there's no title to refer it to anymore... Who still reads Wildstorm? They're my favorite books (were).
I really dreaded reading he'd do a DCU mini. No interest in that whatsoever. Love his work, however.
Hope SBB will return before long. From Vertigo. We'll see.
I'm happy for all Superman/Cap. Marvel fans, but I will pass on this.
I will ogle the artwork something fierce, but not buying it.
I've said this before: his art has an unmistakable appeal, especially with that brand of coloring!