Michael Rothman
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President, @TheDispatch | Managing Director, Sprezzatura Ventures
Articles by Michael Rothman
Ryan Crowe on ‘This Land is Old and Dark,’ His Creative Process and an Iconic Mentor!
It’s not often you get to showcase and help promote a creative endeavor for not only a friend, but a person you truly admire, respect and love. For me, one of those people is Ryan Crowe, who I got to meet when he was running content at Shortboxed. The man is truly 1 of 1, and I knew that from the first time we met. He was a born creative AND leader (very very rare) and a class act, who cares about his passions as well as people.
Space Ghost #8 - The Antimatter Man Grows Too Powerful!
He’s a Cosmic Vigilante in all the right ways – He’s Space Ghost. Space Ghost #8 comes to you from one of NI’s favorite writers, David Pepose. I’ve said in the past that Space Ghost is like a hybrid Punisher meets Star Wars, and we are all better off for having this incredible character in our lives, with him and his crew fighting the good fight! Lau is able to compliment the storyline so well as the kids have Granpa Contra back, but little do they know, he’s hiding a dark, twisted secret.
Stranger Things Finale - 5 Burning Questions Heading into Show’s Ending
We officially have just one episode left of Stranger Things! You read that right, New Year’s Eve will mark the end of this 10-year run on Netflix. And with the fifth and final season spread out into multiple launches, the hype for the show is at an all-time high. After watching episodes 5,6 and 7 of the fifth and final season, let’s dive into a few questions viewers might have heading into the 8th and final episode of the season and very last episode of the series.
Skinbreaker #4: Old Ways vs. The New … To The Death
We’re officially halfway through this limited series and boy is Skinbreaker breaking me in so many ways. First, the full circle nature of the tribe’s ways with Anok now facing the ultimate challenge from one of his own is something that is as heartbreaking as it is fascinating. A way to keep the tribe strong and weed out the weak is also something that ignores all the intangibles of life. Next, the relationship between Anok and his son is something parents everywhere can feel deep in their soul.
Amazing Spider-Man #18 - It’s a Goblin Party!
Norman Osborn has had one heck of an evolution in the Marvel Universe. Once Spider-Man’s greatest foe, Norman has been donning Peter’s costume while he’s away getting stronger in an effort to come back and defeat Hellgate. And while Norman has had his own take on the iconic Spidey and his ways of fighting crime, the suit, the meaning and Peter have all changed him for the better. John Romita Jr. is back and that means an icon takes the reins on the art for this heart-pumping issue.
Marvel Rivals Ignite #1 - Three Action-Packed Stories
This first issue is broken into three mini stories or battles if you will. “Demon Days” is Venom against Psylocke and is from Peach Momoko. “TSUCHIGUMO” is The Punisher against Peni Parker and is from Yuji Kaku, while “Sounds of Victory” is Hela Vs. Luna Snow and is a Mitsuyasu Sakai story. What can you say about Peach Momoko that hasn’t already been said. Aside from being an amazing human being, her art is undeniable. The water color style is something that brings impact and gravitas.
Amazing Spider-Man #17 - An Issue Where You’ll Need Tissues!
This is the most Spider-Man book ever! Having discovered that Dr. Xanto was experimenting on sentient beings, Peter Parker gave up working with him to get stronger for his rematch with Hellgate, yet he wouldn’t give up on Xanto. So all the while, Rocket and others want to leave this guy for dead, Peter has faith in him. But Peter is benefiting from his benevolence.
Marvel Knights: The Punisher #3 - The Plot Thickens
Turning Frank into a mindless slave took an enormous amount of the drug Z, but now that he’s dispatched of his counterpart, Frank is the top assassin for the Molerro Cartel. This indentured servitude came as a payback for Frank murdering Molerro’s son Manny.
ULTIMATE UNIVERSE #1: The Guardians Continue Mission to Restore the Universe
We’re officially two years in from the start of the Ultimate Universe, where The Maker used all the weapons at his disposal to create a Marvel Universe without superheroes. But as these stories generally go, our favorite superheroes like Spider-Man, The Guardians and more have found their way not only to being the hero they were destined to be but to each other as well. And thus, this story picks up on the Guardians search for more heroes that can stand up to The Maker and his diabolical schemes.
ROOK EXODUS #9 - Emotions Boil Over on Exodus
What is an Earth Farmer? In Rook Exodus #9, Rook is attempting to unite the remaining wardens against the betrayal of Better-World and the Bear Warden, who are working together nefariously to reclaim the powerful Warden helmets, while leaving Exodus to collapse under the weight of the broken World Engine.
Tom Felton Suits Up in ‘Altered’ and Becomes Unexpected Superhero Mentor
Tom Felton is suiting up again, and this time it is not as a conflicted wizard or a CSI tech. In Altered, he steps into full superhero mode, jetting between dystopian danger and big emotional beats. Felton admits that slipping on the costume for the first time came with a jolt of uncertainty, but the hesitation didn’t last long. As he put it, “I wasn’t quite sure when I first suited up how I was gonna feel, but it does feel pretty badass.” That spark sets the tone for the entire film.
Skinbreaker #3: A New Challenge Emerges
What is the Skinbreaker? • What is the Skinbreaker Challenge? After an incredible issue #2, Skinbreaker is back and time has passed since Anok took over as chieftain. But the more things change, the more they stay the same – doubters of his ways and leadership and someone waiting in the wings to challenge him. Will this tribe survive the inner conflict or will Anok soon be replaced the same way his predecessor was in issue 2.
Marvel Knights: The Punisher #2 - Is This the End for Frank Castle?
When we last saw Frank Castle, the drug cartel that he was investigating was able to turn him into a mindless killer only answering to those he one hunted. But turning Frank into a mindless slave took an enormous amount of effort and the drug Z. Frank is a stubborn one and if he has anything to say about things, this cartel won’t be controlling him for long. The art feels like a fever dream, which perfectly matches this zombie world the cartel has created.
FantasyVerse Celebrates 1st BDAY with Gifts to YOU!
FantasyVerse, your gateway to all things fantasy, including your favorite comics, celebrated its first anniversary this past week, but instead of accepting gifts, the platform decided to give back to YOU – the reader. Some insane new bundles just hit the platform and some will be available through the remainder of 2025, including the likes of Spawn and Halo at STEEP discounts.
Amazing Spider-Man #15: Former Foes Step Up for Spider-Man and NYC
Worlds are about to collide. Norman Osborn has been playing hero as Spider-Man, Ben Reilly has been acting as Peter and the real Peter Parker you ask – he’s been in space getting stronger in advance of an epic showdown with Hellgate. Hellgate destroyed Peter in their last encounter and New York City has been picking up the pieces ever since. But after last month’s issue, Peter Parker might be close to coming home. The Spider Legend himself John Romita JR returns and his art has never looked better.
CAPES #1 - After 20 Years, This Comic is … Invincible!
It’s been more than 20 years since Capes Inc first made its way into the pages of Image Comics with the likes of Bolt and Kid Thor taking on villains like Machine Head and Titan. Well Capes is back and this corner of the Invincible Universe will be explored once again from one of your favorites creators in all of fandom – Robert Kirkman. From the initial splash page, you feel the world and the excitement of the Invincible Universe. Englert always brings the fun.
Eddie Brock Carnage #10 - An Epic Confrontation
From the hunter to the hunted. Eddie Brock has spent the last nine issues trying to make his partnership with Carnage work as they hunt down serial killers to feed the symbiote’s blood lust. Now, Muse is on their trail, seeking his revenge. All the while, Eddie is doing his best to free himself of Carnage, seeking the support of a woman who has successfully separated herself from one in the past. Can Eddie do it as well or will Muse have the final laugh.
PREDATOR BADLANDS #1 - Diving into The Predator Mythology
Predator Badlands #1 coincides with the release of the film in theaters and really dives deep into the mythology of the Predators, known on their homeland as the Yautja. These explorers and hunters track down dangerous creatures for sport as we’ve seen in the films to date. Their technology and training is unmatched to the degree that they are almost unbeatable. This book ends right as the new film begins! Ching and Junior pair up here with pencils and inks to create something truly fascinating.
ROOK EXODUS #8: Enter Stag, a Warden on a Revenge Tour
What is an Earth Farmer? In Rook Exodus #8, we continue our journey following the new Crow Warden, Rook, on Exodus, a planet where humans control nature through technology and struggle to survive after the world engine has mysteriously shut down, leaving the world’s inhabitants with weeks to survive.
Amazing Spider-Man #15 - A Sacrifice Leads to a New Ally?
Things are heating up in the world of Spider-Man. Peter was punched into space during his battle with Hellgate and has been hunkering down ever since, trying to get strong before he faces off against him again, and all the while, he’s found out his new ally isn’t such an ally after all. Instead of his mission to get stronger, he now has to save a group of former test subjects and help them all return to their homes. But what about Peter Parker? Will he ever return home?
Marvel Rivals King in Black #1 - When a Party Goes Horribly Wrong
Who is the King in Black? We begin our journey into Marvel Rivals King in Black with a little refresher for readers about Klyntar, the home of Symbiotes and Knull, the Symbiote God. Soon after, Rocket, Thing, Jeff and others show up to this horrifying planet to … party?!?! Well, this party goes horribly wrong real fast! Nico does a really nice job crafting art that can enhance the wide-ranging story that feels like a movie more than a comic.
Skinbreaker #2 - A Heartbreaking Passing of Leadership
What is the Skinbreaker? • What is the Skinbreaker Challenge? After an emotional issue #1, Skinbreaker is back this week and there’s a challenge on the table. Anok has challenged his chieftan to the death for the right to hold the Skinbreaker and lead his tribe. But Anok must kill his mentor in an impossible choice to save and lead the tribe so that others may not try to take control. David Finch’s work never fails to astonish and amaze.
From the Creator of ‘Mr. Easta,’ comes ‘Cock Head’: A ‘Fast-Paced, Gory Thrill Ride’
From the team behind Horus in Hell and Mr. Easta, comes a new imprint into the comic world – Comic Soup! If the team’s past work is any indication, Kit Wallis and Allen Dunford, are sure to bring you some of the craziest and most unique stories ever told in comic form. First up – Cock Head. Launching on Kickstarter very soon is Cock Head #1 (of 2), a 28-page, fast-paced, gory thrill ride—equal parts absurd and brilliant. It’s written, illustrated, and lettered by Kit.
BATTLE BEAST #6 - Is The Beast Finally Outmatched??
I’ve been waiting all month for Battle Beast #6, especially after last month’s big tease. It seems as if the Beast has finally … FINALLY met his match. Will he get the glorious death he’s been dreaming of for ages. As his new adversary says, “Baby, this is the end.” Or is it … You’ll have to read issue #6 to find out. No matter if he meets his maker or not, this issue will be “delicious.” Ummm and that ending … GOOD LAWD!! Ryan Ottley has a way of transporting you to another world effortlessly.
NYCC 2025 - Is Michael Chiklis Coming Back for Avengers Doomsday??
While at New York Comic Con this past weekend, we spoke to acclaimed actor Michael Chiklis about his future in the ever-expanding Marvel Cinematic Universe. With the upcoming Avengers Doomsday featuring the Fantastic Four, Doctor Doom and a mutliverse, it would make sense that Chiklis and his former co-stars from the original Fantastic Four movies could come back for a nice cameo and homage to their impact in the superhero genre. Not so fast, says Chiklis.
NYCC 2025 - How the VHS Machine Played a Role in the Downfall of the USSR
At New York Comic-Con 2025, Nerd Initiative sat down with acclaimed director Timur Bekmambetov, who was on hand to promote new film “Mercy,” starring Chris Pratt, and one of the most unexpectedly provocative takes he dropped was how the VHS machine played a subtle but pivotal role in the downfall of the Soviet Union.
NYCC 2025: All the Marvel TV and Animation News
TONS OF MARVEL TV AND ANIMATION BREAKING NEWS TOOK PLACE AT NEW YORK COMIC CON AND WE GOT THE SCOOP FOR YOU!! Brad Winderbaum, Head of Marvel, TV and Animation, spoke at a panel this weekend and detailed all the releases coming out in 2026 on Disney+. It’s going to be a HUGE year. “We’re gonna be talking about a few NY characters today,” he said, introducing season 2 of Friendly Neighborhood Spider-Man set for next year.
Marvel Knights: The Punisher #1 - Frank Like You’ve Never Seen Him Before
As a journalist with years of experience under my belt, I’m wise enough to know the difference between not liking an actual storyline and not liking what’s happening to a character in a really original storyline. Most die-hard Punisher fans like myself are NOT going to like the events of The Punisher #1, but that should NOT mean we don’t like the book.
ROOK EXODUS #7: ‘We Have an Army to Build’
What in an Earth Farmer? • Who is the Warden of the Goats? Is this a comic or a prediction of humanity’s future?? In Rook Exodus #7, we continue our journey following the new Crow Warden on Exodus, a planet where humans control nature through technology and stuggle to survive after the world engine has mysteriously shut down. It was supposed to be a promise of a better life, but greed and carelessness once again take over and now, our protagonist has to figure out how to merely survive his new life.
Ulysses Monarch #5 - Is This the End for Your Favorite Archeologist?
What is the Codex? • Is this the end for Ulysses Monarch? Everyone is after the illuminating Codex, which if read, expands the human mind to its full potential, including telepathy and many other cool side effects. With that in mind, can Ulysses and his band of rebels keep the Codex protected or will they have to do something rash instead? I promise you, you’ll be surprised with the result! This is a finale you won’t want to miss.
Skinbreaker #1 - A Reluctant Hero Steps Forward
• What is the Skinbreaker? • What is the Skinbreaker Challenge? Having spoken to both Robert Kirkman and David Finch at San Diego Comic Con, I’ll be folding in some of the details I gleaned from them into this review. In a nutshell, Skinbreaker is a book about leadership, family, and the reluctant hero. The visuals are insane, and the story is heartbreaking to match.
INVINCIBLE UNIVERSE: BATTLE BEAST #5 - THE INSATIABLE BEAST WITHIN
A Bloody Glorious issue of Battle Beast #5 arrives this week and opens with a vestige from our beloved Invincible Universe – a pair of killer brothers. This time, we meet Juggernaut and Colossus. But what is their mission, why are they invading this new world, and how will Battle Beast factor in? We also learn more about the background of Prince Salaka and his past cowardice. Will he and Beast make amends for what happened to his kingdom, to his parents?
Emmys 2025: All the Big Winners of the Night!
The 77th Primetime Emmy Awards were Sunday night! Here are the top winners and more! • The Studio — Big sweep: won Outstanding Comedy Series, plus acting, writing & directing honors in comedy. It set a record for most wins by a comedy series in a single season (13). • Adolescence — Dominated the limited/anthology category. Won Outstanding Limited Series, plus multiple acting, writing, and directing awards.
The Punisher #1 - What Exactly is Frank Castle’s Mission?
Before we get started, does anyone want to get out? I know it’s the wrong character for that line, but with this being a RED BAND comic marked for explicit content, we figured why not give you a chance to walk away in case this become too violent. No? We thought so, let’s proceed! The Punisher #1 is so crazy that this is a “TRIPLE THREAT” review, with Matt from Hops Geek News and Megan from Vigilant Vibes teaming up with Michael Rothman to bring you the extensive look at this thriller.
Designing The Dispatch
Craig Ward, the award-winning graphic designer who led The Dispatch’s recent redesign, sits down with our president, Mike Rothman, to provide a peek behind the curtain at his design process, inspirations for the new art direction, and the greatest motivating factor to take on The Dispatch as a client. The Agenda: —Craig’s background and career highlights —The approach to The Dispatch redesign —The importance of typography in graphic design —Selecting The Dispatch as a client
Void Rivals #22 - The Battle for Energon Intensifies
If you’ve been following along thus far in Void Rivals, you know that nothing is what it seems, and we’ve been learning something new every issue. Now Grakula is trying to uncover what is so special about her new armor, as she plainly says, “It’s Something More.” What more exactly?!? Turning the page back to Agorria, Springer and Hot Rod do their best to bring allies together, but that deems harder than anticipated. Hughes brings something truly special to the multi-layered beauty that is Energon.
INVINCIBLE UNIVERSE: BATTLE BEAST #4 - IS THIS THE END OF THE BEAST?
He’s back and ready for more blood! Battle Beast #4 arrives this week and thus far, our protagonist has had some issues finding competition worthy enough to not only face but die to in battle. Will this month be any different, well probably not. Actually … issue #4 might just be what the doctor ordered and will be different, VERY different, without spoiling anything.
Battle Beast #4 - Has the Beast Finally Met His Tasty End??
He’s back and ready for more blood! Battle Beast #4 arrives this week and thus far, our protagonist has had some issues finding competition worthy enough to not only face but die to in battle. Will this month be any different, well probably not. Actually … issue #4 might just be what the doctor ordered and will be different, VERY different, without spoiling anything.
NYCC 2025 - What Are the Top Panels for Streaming, Movies, Comics & More?
New York Comic Con released the full panel schedule this week and we’ve got a lot to talk about. From a Chris Pratt film to the new season of Invincible, the panels at this year’s NYCC are sure to excite fans! For the full schedule, head over newyorkcomiccon.com. MERCY: Exclusive First Look with Chris Pratt Set in the near future, an LAPD detective (Chris Pratt) wakes up strapped to an execution chair, on trial for murdering his wife.
Eddie Brock: Carnage #7 - Will Eddie Let Carnage Kill or Die?
Eddie just discovered that Carnage is controlling his body while he’s asleep. That spells a nightmare for Eddie as the sadistic and twisted killer can’t be controlled if Eddie isn’t there to try and tame it. Below are some questions that this issue might answer! “Who is in control, Carnage or Eddie Brock?” “Who is the green Phoenix in Eddie Brock’s dreams?” The first half of the book is all action, so without much dialogue, Siaz really brings the story to life through his art.
Harvey Awards 2025: Spider-Man, Daredevil Score Nominations Ahead of NYCC
• Who are the nominees for the 2025 Harvey Awards across all categories? • Which comic book adaptations are competing at the 2025 Harvey Awards? The Harvey Awards — one of comics’ biggest nights — just dropped their 2025 nominees, and it’s a stacked lineup. From critically acclaimed indie darlings to superhero blockbusters, this year’s list is a love letter to every corner of the comics world.
The Amazing Spider-Man #9 - A Perfect Comeback Story
Ummm, wait what?!!? Did we just say goodbye to the world’s favorite hero?? At the end of ASM #8, Spider-Man looked to meet his demise. Say it ain’t so Marvel!! Well, more than likely he’ll be back to swing another day, but man oh man did he get a beatdown. Now let’s see how Peter can pick up the pieces and move on … or maybe not?? With Dowling as a guest artist, he really brings this emotional issue to life. Spider-Man did in fact live, but he’s still recovering and the city is in full anarchy mode.
SDCC Exclusive - Inside PSA’s Comic Grading Launch
In our in-depth interview with Elizabeth Gruene, PSA’s General Manager of Pop Culture, the official launch of PSA’s long-anticipated comic book grading and encapsulation service was unveiled, kicking off at SDCC 2025. Elizabeth emphasized that while PSA had considered entering comics for decades, it’s only now — with exponential growth in trading‑card and pop‑culture submissions — that the timing felt right.
SDCC 2025 Exclusive - Andy Allo and Allegra Edwards Talk Heartbreaking ‘Upload’ Finale
Excited about the final season of Upload on Amazon?? We are too! Nerd Initiative sat down with Andy Allo (Nora) and Allegra Edwards (Ingrid) at San Diego Comic‑Con, as they reflect on Upload’s emotional final season and that crazy finale. • Andy Allo (Nora) opens up about Nora’s evolution into a more assertive, grounded version of herself in the final season. She describes a character who has transformed from a support role into someone confidently taking the reins.
SDCC 2025 Exclusive - Robert Kirkman & David Finch Talk “Skinbreaker”
Better known as “SuperheroTok” on TikTok, Michael is an Emmy Award winning entertainment reporter spending over a decade at ABC & Good Morning America, hosting shows like Inside Marvel! Michael brings his unique vision and passion to TikTok, where he also hosts “Shortboxed Presents,” a series focused on everything fans need to know about buying and selling comics in the grading age. He’s also a proud husband, and father to a little golden retriever.
Building our own tiny house in the Berkshire woods
In March 2021, we bought a piece of land. A south-facing slope strewn with pine trees and thorny blackberry bushes in a corner of New Marlborough, it took in a sweeping view of blue hills in the distance. “This is just the right place to build,” my twelve-year-own son proclaimed, after he clambered up a majestic boulder to see the view. So began a four-year adventure to transform that hillside into a home. We dreamt of a cottage in the woods.
Everything You Need to Know About San Diego Comic-Con 2025
San Diego Comic-Con is officially upon us and will run from July 24–27, 2025 at the San Diego Convention Center. And while planning for this major event can be daunting, we got you covered with a nice over view of the highlights planned for this big, big weekend in comics, merch, movies and more.
Battle Beast #3 - The Savage Battle Rages On
Quite possibly the hottest book around right now next to Absolute Batman, Ultimate Spiderman and a few others, Battle Beast is just that … a BEAST of a book. It’s only 20 pages, but this warrior straight off the pages of Invincible makes them feel like 200 pages. And while Battle Beast is blood-thirsty for a true hero’s death, he’s finding it incredibly hard to find an adversary worthy of his demise. Will issue #3 do the trick? We think not, but here’s to hoping.
How Krypto Stole the Show in Superman and Why it Matters Especially Now
Before seeing Superman, I made my feelings very clear – Krypto is NOT to be harmed! There’s nothing that can ruin a movie faster than seeing an adorable pup meet his demise by no fault of his or her own. I mean, ask John Wick. The man went on a killing rampage all after losing his beloved pooch.
It’s Jeff Infinity Paws #1 - Pets of the Marvel Universe Unite
OMG Earth’s mightiest heroes are assembling but not the heroes you think.
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