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Articles by B Ferg
Jump Scare
Two years ago The GWW.com covered the annual, weekend spanning, fan appreciating and franchise celebrating event known as Galaxy Con Richmond. This convention, however, is not the only time that the company creeps into the Commonwealth of Virginia. Like a lycan circling the dates of the lunar cycle on a calendar, those intrigued by all things fearful and frightening know that each year Nightmare Weekend arrives in the River City around the 2nd weekend in October.
By Whose Authority
Despite understanding it is merely a metaphor, many may not fully grasp the entire meaning of “don’t shoot the messenger” in its entirety. Of course when considering it alongside the phrase “the medium is the message”, it is understandable that the focus typically falls on the fate of the individual – or organization – rather than reacting to the news.
A Reluctant Heir
Are there any other homonyms that get used as often in metaphor, similes and allegorically as the words “sun” and “son”? While the former refers to a male offspring, time and again in biblical scripture, sonnets and stories as well, it frequently undergoes a metamorphosis likening the individual to a celestial body. Speaking of suns or stars, specifically the second to the right, Boom Studios new series is a nostalgic return to Neverland.
She Put Me In A State of Shock
There is no denying the connection between hormones and horror films. With several films focusing on teenagers and young adults experimenting with illicit and explicit activities such as sex and drugs, at times they often seem more like sermons and cautionary tales than simple popcorn cinema. You also can’t ignore that the genre’s gimmick exploits a portion of humanity’s basic genetics – fright causing fight or flight.
You're X, You're the Ultimate, You
Whether it’s A Wonderful LIfe or just a Freaky Friday, there is a segment of cinema – and stories – whose central theme emphasizes that the grass isn’t greener on the other side. Currently, there is no place where this is more accurate than in the Ultimate Marvel Universe. However, the formation of the Ultimates, the rise of a king in Wakanda and the web being spun in New York serve as a reminder that hope always springs eternal.
Eat Up
Although text speaks about the sins passing down from generation to generation, often this is interpreted to mean from father to son. Meanwhile, few mention how wounds, even if merely words, carry over from womb to womb. Thankfully, a new shop just opened up on Hyde Street with a product to help any woman shed some pounds. Image Comics dishes up a heartbreaking tale in It Happened on Hyde Street: Devour. Eat up.
A Curious Routine
Our modern society offers an open door invitation for scrutinizing the sights and scenarios that come across our various screens. From climate change, to border security and even voter fraud, everything is subject to skepticism. Anyone wishing to treat this condition may want to book a visit to Paranoid Garden. A stay at Dark Horse Comics new treatment center is just what the doctor ordered to cure all your delusions.
Finding an Alternate Route
So, who are the people in your neighborhood? Personally, hearing this phrase brings up the memory of Bob McGrath singing as he took a stroll down Sesame Street. Along his stroll he would greet various Anything Muppets, each of whose occupation was identifiable by their attire. This is like the “Residents” of Ghost Machine’s Hyde Street who also employ unique methods to achieve their goal. Image Comics’ new series makes it clear that what you do matters and someone is always keeping score.
No Regrets
Ain’t No Grave #5 Image Comics Written By: Skottie Young Art By: Jorge Corona Coloring By: Jean-Francois Beaulie Lettering, Design & Logo By: Nate Piekos Death is only the beginning according to the antagonist of The Mummy films. However, that doesn’t explain specifically what occurs once we expire. Unfortunately, in the pages of Ain’t No Grave #5, it seems time is up for Ryder. The clock strikes High Noon and she finds herself staring Death in the face.
GET DOWN ON IT
Duck and Cover #1 Melodrama Dark Horse Comics Writer: Scott Snyder Art: Rafael Albuquerque Colors: Marcelo Maiolo Letters: Bernardo Brice & RAD The world of therapy often uses the word FEAR as an acronym for the phrase “False Evidence Appearing Real”. And while this interpretation is often helpful to those attempting to overcome a phobia, it also creates a negative and limiting connotation.
INERT OBJECTS
Standstill #1 Image Comics Story & Color: Lee Loughridge Art: Andrew Robinson Design & Lettering: Rob Tweedie Although Sir Isaac Newton’s studies are generally only attached to the world of applied sciences, his research revolving around the world of motion actually extends into the realm of social science as well. Especially his First Law of Motion that details the property of an object to stay at rest – or in motion – until acted upon by an outside force.
Making Exceptions
Over 60 years ago Marvel Comics exposed the world to a superhero “team” from writer Stan Lee and artist Jack Kirby that, if the team’s founder’s ideology is accurate, should never have needed to exist. With it’s opening page, Uncanny X-Men #700 summarizes and romanticizes both the dream and the dreamer himself. It’s all there, from the team’s first mission which took place in Uncanny X-Men #1, all the way to that fateful night at the Hellfire Gala.
A Considerable Gap
As issue #2 of Boom Studios Uncanny Valley opens Oliver is still attempting to come to grips with the lunacy that has been introduced into his life. We catch up with him as he plays catch up with his newly discovered grandfather, Pecos Peet. A pit stop in a diner allows Peet the opportunity to divulge a few noteworthy details to his grandson. Though with Oliver’s mother and The First’s followers in hot pursuit, even after all we learn this issue you get the sense that’s not all folks.
When A Tangle-Web Spider Weaves
This week’s list of Marvel Comics releases included four by the eight legged league. Of those comics, Spectacular Spider-Men is the only title whose description specifically states the adventure entails more than one Spider. The three others initially appear to be simple solo adventures for Miles, Jessica and the newest – and youngest – Spider, Bailey Briggs. However, even in these titles you can sense this corner of the 616 is building something.
The Devils In The Day Job
The title of Dark Horse Comics new series would be good as a mantra or a mission statement. Even a memoir, given the medium, since I’m working off the idea that Cullen Bunn has a hidden message in these hysterical pages. Then again, having growing up in a world where every Boogeyman was a cash cow, I’m always wondering what’s lurking in the shadows. So when a comic screams Monsters Are My Business, is the series simply a specialization; or a general practice.
Your MOVE
What do you do when everyone is leaving planet Earth on jet planes, without any plans to come back again? Ghost Machine Comics UNNAMED man behind the iron mask remembers his father refusing to cheat the land. But once their farm burns down, by his father’s hand, his only choice is to reach for the stars. Rook Exodus rockets readers to the year 2173. If Redcoat shows how Image Comics creator owned Universe gets started, then this series illustrates how it’s going. Different board, same chess match.
SCOUTS DISHONOR
The absolute worst fate for any loyalist is finding themselves stuck behind enemy lines. Even worse, the longer they remain there the greater the likelihood of discovery; leading to imprisonment, death or both. Sadly, that’s been the fate for Simon Pure for the better part of a century. Meet Ghost Machine Comics first (anti)hero as the creator-owned Universe shows us how you deal with a Redcoat.
THe Underside of Royalty
There is a lot of distinction and dignity that surrounds being a member of the upper class. Still, we often fail to factor in many of the disturbing details that reality really entails. That is until we finally witness it unraveling right before our eyes. So while Image Comics new series Under York takes place in the ‘New World”, Sylvain Runberg’s story conveniently coincides with some real world scenarios. Because you can only push things down for so long before they bubble up to the surface.
THE PROSE ON GALAXYCON RICHMOND 2024
From Friday March 15th to Sunday March 17th fans from every quadrant of the Geekverse descended on The Greater Richmond Convention Center for GalaxyCon Richmond 2024. Since 2006, GalaxyCon has given attendees the opportunity to enjoy, engage and – if they’re interested – even expand upon their appreciation of various portions of fandom.
I Do It For The Love
What’s my motivation? This line, delivered by an actor portraying a basketball player in a classic 90s Sprite commercial, is both thought provoking and personal. Just the word “motivation” itself indicates an external desirable objective and the relinquishing of internal objections. For Trini Wastelander, motivation is the chance to meet and join her favorite athlete’s team. You can’t doubt her level of devotion since the title of Boom Studios new series practically screams if from the rafters.
Rock-A-Bomb Baby
It’s the end of the world as we know it and I feel fine. If that sentiment seems unsettling to you then rest assured you are not the only one thinking that way. Actually, you probably have a lot in common with the main characters in Image Comics newest series, Napalm Lullaby. Instead of living asleep behind the wheel like some others, the siblings know a change will do us all some good. Together they are about to set off on an explosive encounter they expect will wake up the world.
Occupational Hazard
Widowmaker #1 Thorny Comics Writer: Nick Friar Artist: Naiara Rodriguez Without a doubt the greatest accomplishment for any comic book character or series is making the leap from the page. Meanwhile ask any fan of the medium and I imagine they would jump at the opportunity to create their own series. However, while making comics might seem simple on paper, many fail to recognize that succeeding in the industry requires more than a few words.
The End Of Fays
Whether or not the heroine of Image Comics newest series intended to, The Last Mermaid is currently in the frying pan. Stuck on the land isn’t the ideal location for anything aquatic or amphibian, however, that is exactly where she finds herself at the start of this issue. If she can’t find some freshwater soon she may share the same fate as a fish won at the fair.
Temperamental Witch
There’s no arguing the fact that family matters to the individuals who make up the Marvel Universe. From the affection shown between Peter and Aunt May to the sibling rivalry that exists between Scott and Alex. However, there are a set of twins whose relationship makes you wonder how they made it this far? Especially with who Scarlet Witch & Quicksilver had as a father. But will the arrival of a mysterious message from Magneto help this furious family fully appreciate Dom’s words from those films.
Ready For This Smoke
Back in black, with hints of red including some on his face by this issue’s end, Marvel’s skateboard kid returns. No, I’m not talking about Rocket Racer, but to be fair bits of Dwayne Taylor’s story never felt completely original. Given the resurgence of some other Marvel’s 90’s series, I was wondering when the rest of NWArriors would make the rounds. Especially with all the heat Firestar has been taking since “betraying” the X-Men. However, J.
The Accursed
Based upon the beginning of Image Comics new series, the devil may be part of the “dirty” details but he stays out of the delivery room. Although technically the start of the End Times writers Noah Gardner and Ryan Parrott imagine takes place in a barn. It’s probably for the best considering who Beelzebub has as head of obstetrics. As for the rest his life, The Infernals #1 doesn’t show what hell young Abraham raised, but we get a glimpse at the hell has wrought.
X My Heart And Hope To...
They say that relationships that begin or are based on intense situations rarely last. Well, clearly someone forgot to teach that to the teenagers at Xavier’s. And as situations go, the 2023 Hellfire Gala was pretty intense. It also marked the start of Talon and Synch’s tenure as co-leaders of the official X-Men team. You’d think when Scott and Jean passed the torch to the next power couple, they would also pass on what years of experience has taught them.
The Walls Come Tumbling Down
I Love It When A Plan Comes Together This line from the 80s TV series The A-Team was only made once the group’s leader Hannibal was certain that the team’s mission was successful. For the past few years, and honestly many before that, readers of Marvel Comics watched as the best laid plans of mutants – even those for all mankind – gang aft agley. After the 20223 Hellfire Gala the entire world has seemingly turned against them thanks to Orchis propaganda.
Immortally Yours
Immortal X-Men #17 Marvel Comics Writer: Kieron Gillen Artist: Juan Jose Ryp Color Artist: David Curiel Letterer: VC’s Clayton Cowles It is said it is better to have loved and lost, but that’s taking someone else’s perspective on something that’s personal. Only the individual can truly appreciate all that someone, or something has meant to them; the loss they now feel. If only there was a way to make this into a healthy relationship instead of this nothingness.
Truth Amidst The Stars
You light up my life. These words, meant to be sweet, also suggest a sad state of self surrender. Because since energy isn’t created or destroyed, if you have to wait for a star shining in the sky to start, you can lose a whole day. And unfortunately not everyone can afford to take one off. So when life comes at Mariko fast in the form of some unfortunate news the young woman will have to make some choices that will change her life’s trajectory.
Why Don't You Just Meet Me In The Middle
If you could get an honest answer out of them, most artists and entertainers in any medium would admit that fans are fickle. Frail children of dust and feeble as frail. It really doesn’t take much to shake their confidence; blowing anywhere the wind goes. There’s nothing with that, some folks get restless and are ready to move on. Leaving the creator anxious, in shock and dismayed. Oh, the HORROR it creates! Which brings us to Cullen Bunn’s new book from Dark Horse Comics.
The Lord Is My Light
G.O.D.S. #1 Marvel Comics Writer: Jonathan Hickan Artist: Valerio Schiti Color Artist: Marte Gracia Letterer: VC’s Travis Lanham Since the late 80s most of the world has come to recognize cotton as the fabric of our lives. Similarly most fans would argue they know all there is to know about the makeup of Marvel. So leave it up to creator/writer/artist Jonathan Hickman to “rewrite” history once again. G.O.D.S. #1 shows you don’t have to change the hierarchy to change an entire Universe.
You can Pick Your Friends, But...
Even with their modern and professional appeal, terms like networks, circles and followers will never match up to the value of the bond with someone you call a friend. That’s the number that truly matters. How many of us have them? In Image Comics newest series The Cull from writer Kelly Thompson a group of five teenage friends set out early one morning with the supposed purpose of shooting a film. However, one of them is depending on the rest for a whole lot more.
What A Difference A Day Makes
Just sleep on it. This statement suggests that a single session in a state of slumber is sufficient to solve most any situation. For the mutants of the 616 Marvel Universe one night has turned their lives into a nightmare. This in turn has left the world susceptible to another group’s dream. In Children of the Vault #1 Bishop must look towards the Dayspring if he intends to get everyone to wake up.
Frigid Air Man
Astonishing. That is the adjective that the individuals at the the X-Offices chose to attach to this solo adventure for Robert “Bobby” Drake. Honestly, does that word even begin to categorize the atmosphere the Omega level mutant known as Iceman creates. What is astonishing is that Bobby is even standing after the shot he took at the 2023 Hellfire Gala. Which is why Astonishing Iceman #1 finds upper management at Orchis holding their operatives feet to the fire from their superiors.
Yield: The Rite Of Way
Once upon a time it was believed that sustenance and survival required persistent pursuit of approval, often in the form of ritualistic tribute, from some universal providers. Nowadays, it is impossible to get someone to let you merge safely onto the highway. The Sacrificers #1 transports readers to a world where the creatures still understand they are living on a prayer. And that unto those who are given, much is required.
A WRECK ON A WRECK
An accident waiting to happen. Is there a better explanation for the unsettling, anticipatory emanation that the arrival of Bruce Banner creates in an environment. However there are worse things that can happen, dangers that you can’t anticipate. Entities that await the perfect opportunity to strike. Call it mayhem or the Mother of Monsters. The Incredible Hulk #2 continues a new chapter in the characters mythos. Will this be the opportunity for Bruce to get his life out of shambles?
Tetrad Evil
The finale in the four part Before the Fall of X series arrives with The Sinister Four. Writer Kieron Gillen gives audiences one last look at the way things were, before they change forever for muutantkind. At first, given the title, this comic may seem like it is framing these four as the mutant equivalent of the numerical foes who often face Spider-Man. However, after reading this issue, it seems like an ode to a much older group.
Have You Heard The News
By now, you may be wondering if you will ever get a chance to read the entire, accurate story. There are many who would argue that wanting that is just being overly critical. Besides, the past isn’t by any means a predicator of the future. Or is it? From writer Al Ewing, X-Men Before the Fall: The Heralds of Apocalypse is the bearer of bad news. Orchis, you don’t know you’re messing with. None of us have; except one Arakko warrior woman.
It's Gonna Cost You
Maia Stone is looking to settle her account, and a score with the man holding her husband hostage. But will the price of victory be too much for either of them or their unborn child? Writer Charles Soule brings the first session of the Shrouded College to a conclusion in Hell to Pay #6. By this issue’s end everyone the Stone’s are left asking one important question. Was it worth it?
Or Am I Origami
If you ask the average individual to give you their life story so far, you better prepare to read through a rather lengthy tome. But, could they sum it up on a single page? In Paper Planes, two lifelong friends have one summer to change the script of their stories. But will outside pressures affect the stability of their once seamless flight of friendship.
Glutton For Punishment
The concept of paradise typically centers on one component – indulgence; even over-indulgence. The notion that every want or whim will be satisfied is a key selling points of any paradisiacal proposition. But one resident of Krakoa, one founding member of the X-Men wants to have his cake, the whole pie. Actually just wheel over that entire dessert cart. After the dinner that he shares with Logan in the pages of Wolverine #34, it’s clear that Hank McCoy isn’t counting calories.
Forever Hold Your Piece
To have and to hold. Hidden within what is widely regarded as a giving ceremony are these words that are full of covetousness. Having your cake, which in some instances is warmer even after a year in the freezer than the couple’s affections towards each other. So far with Maia and Sebastian Stone, Charles Soule is showcasing a love without a limit. In Hell to Pay #5, from Image Comics, readers finally get an understanding of how much this union really costs. Will it break the bank?
The Wheels On The Buste Go Round and Round
Are you warn and real, or a cold work of art? Are you someone who has dreams come to your doorstep to lie there and die there? Nat King Cole’s questions to Mona Lisa feels like the basis for Decarnation. Developer Atelier QDB describes the title as a survival game, but it would be best categorized as a soul searching, self dissecting game. A game that careens into caverns of the mind that are often left uncharted due to their unsettling nature.
Damage Control
At its core, all life as we know it is essentially about balance. The 24hr solar cycle we all count on is just one example; so are the seasons. Even our own human existence shares this quality, and it extends beyond our basic biological nature. However, according Order and Outrage #3 from Dark Horse Comics in order to tip the scales sometimes you must go to extremes. Order and Outrage #3 Dark Horse Comics Written by: Jim Starlin Art by: Rags Morales Colors by: Hailey R.
Oh, The Weather Outside Is Frightful
While not everyone looks (or acts) their age, eventually there will come a time when time will tell on you. Not just in the physical sense, it is easy to hide those wounds, but by the way you approach things. As The Seasons Have Teeth #2 from Boom Studios shows despite the best forecast models, some things you simply can’t blame on the weatherman.
Scary Stories To Tell On The Ark
Faith without works is a phrase which examines the practitioner’s actions, but shouldn’t it also include the preacher/provider. A lack of evidentiary support will doom any case, even one held in the Court of the Most High. But what happens when what you witness is equal parts glory and gory. That is the situation in the new horror series from Boom Comics titled Ghostlore. Once you bear witness, you are never quite the same.
Kingdom Overdone
Confucius’ quote doesn’t describe what to do for the 1,000 year mark. But based on the final pages of Sins of Sinister: Dominion #1 somehow Nathaniel knew what to plant. With the universe unraveling the uneasy alliance of Sinister and Moira arrives with no time to spare. Usually heroes don’t go around destroying realities. Just another reason for everyone to fear and hate the X-Men.
See What You Saw
In the world we live in there appear to be only two types of stories or situations – yours and mine/ours. And unfortunately, we often do not see and fully understand what is happening on the other side. This allows for blind spots and shadows where anything can lurk and anything can happen to anybody; leaving a mystery. All Eight Eyes #1, from publisher Dark Horse Comics, is one such story.
Give Peacemaker A Dance
What do you do for the “hero” who cherishes peace so much that he is willing to kill to make it possible. You show your support by showing that you really want it. And by it of course that means some of Peacemaker’s…moves. Admit it, Peacemaker’s the one time you don’t click SKIP INTRO. As a leading creator of tabletop games, cards and collectibles since 2010, Cryptozoic Entertainment knows what fans want. Which is why the company is collaborating with Warner Bros.
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