New Comic Shoppe Show Tomorrow! The Kirby Family vs Marvel, A Flash Movie Gets Closer to the Screen, X-Men News & More!

Let's keep it simple, shall we? Join Max, Dburt and Daryll for another fun fact/pulp fiction filled broadcast of the Comic Shoppe show, tomorrow at 7pm eastern. We will be using our well honed graphic novel based knowledge to discuss the following: a SpinoffOnline.com article posits what would happen to Marvel (and by extension Disney) if the Kirby estate were to win its intellectual property lawsuit against the vaunted House of Ideas; more info concerning DC/Warner movie release dates for proposed characters (inc. The Flash); Wanted's James McAvoy is slated to play a young Professor Xavier in the next X-Men reboot; more discussion of cross racial casting thanks to Community's Donald Glover (what if Spidey were Black?) and lastly, a synopsis of our favorite comic book reads from the preceding week. Feel free to give us a call live at 646-200-0104 or via email/Im-thecomicshoppe@yahoo.com. See you guys at the Shoppe! Imperius Rex!

Oh and if time permits, we may have to give a few minutes to discuss The Boondocks season 3 has been progressing thus far:

Hey! It's Interview Time......Here's A Preview For Next Sunday (5.23.10) on Afronerd Radio-Thomas Chatterton Williams' Loses His Cool!

I'm sure our readers and supporters (even our detractors) have been wondering about our interview schedule, so make sure to stop by this upcoming Sunday as we welcome author, Thomas Chatterton Williams, to discuss his latest literary effort, Losing My Cool: How a Father's Love and 15,000 Books Beat Hip-hop Culture. You may be familiar with Mr. Chatterton for an earlier critique of modern hip hop culture in a Washington Post op-ed entitled, Black Culture Beyond Hip Hop. Now fast forward three years and the minstrelsy continues with unfettered verve. Here's an excerpt from a ExpressNightOut.com piece, highlighting Chatterton's new treatise:

THOMAS CHATTERTON WILLIAMS' father, "Pappy," pretty much solidified his son's fate when he named him after the 18th century English poet. And Williams has never wavered in his dedication to the craft — or second-guessed his father's wisdom.

"Ever since I was old enough to speak, he always told me that I was a writer and that I could write," Williams said. "There were books all over the house, and I was always told that I could write and that it was something good to do. So when I finally did it, it wasn't so strange or bizarre."

But Williams, who left Fanwood, N.J., to attend Georgetown University for a degree in philosophy and then graduated from New York University with a master's in journalism, spent his teenage years immersed in a hip-hop culture that tried to undermine everything his father had taught him. That struggle, and Williams' eventual decision to fully break away from a life of baggy jeans and being "real," is documented in his first book, "Losing My Cool: How a Father's Love and 15,000 Books Beat Hip-Hop Culture."

"I still listen to some hip-hop and I still have black friends, but once my freshman year of college came around, I never had the same relationship [with hip-hop]," Williams said. "It didn't define me or hold me the way it had before."

For the ExpressNightOut article in its entirety, click on the link below:


It Does Stop: Thomas Chatterton Williams, 'Losing My Cool: How a Father's Love and 15,000 Books Beat Hip-Hop Culture'


And in the interim, let's breath a sigh of relief for positive Black imagery, The Family Smith on Oprah:

Stop By The Comic Shoppe Tues at 7pm (ET)-Discussing Ethnicity (or the Lack thereof) in DC's Return to Legacy Heroes, Red Hulk Reveal & Siege!

Stay tuned for another passionate comic/fantasy discourse, courtesy of the Comic Shoppe radio show, tomorrow at 7pm eastern. Join Daryll, Max and myself as we shed some light on the following pulp related topics: more discussion centered on a Comics Alliance article entitled, The Racial Politics of Regressive Storytelling; our thoughts on the Red Hulk (and by extension the Red She-Hulk) identity finally being revealed; Marvel's Siege storyline also has its own dramatic climax; theories pertaining to some TV season finales (i.e. Smallville, Fringe, Chuck) as well as some cancellations (hint...Heroes) and lastly, our top graphic novel reads from the previous week. Feel free to drop in for a chat "live" via phone-646-200-0104 or email/IM-thecomicshoppe@yahoo.com. And remember...Make yours the Comic Shoppe!

And now, what you've all been waiting for.....some words of wisdom, thanks to The Comic Shoppe's own Daryll B:

1) Bye Bye Heroes: http://www.spinoffonline.com/2010/05/14/its-official-nbc-cancels-heroes/ in other similar news I was shocked to hear Law and Order get the boot also.

2) Wish I could say I was shocked at the latest turn in the DC vs Siegels case, but I not: http://robot6.comicbookresources.com/2010/05/superman-attorney-accuses-warner-bros-of-a-smear-campaign/

3) Props to Greg Burgas at CBR on his article I'm a Marvel....and I'm a DC: http://goodcomics.comicbookresources.com/2010/05/16/im-a-marvel-and-im-a-dc/ SO comic fans, do you favor one company over another? And why?

4) You folks know the love I have for the webcomic Comic Critics and this past week's one about the recent comics piracy site shut down nailed the story on the head http://goodcomics.comicbookresources.com/2010/05/14/comic-critics-117/

5) Rest in peace Ryan Choi...I won't paste any of the articles dealing with his "passing" last week but safe to say if you are a comic fan and you heard Dburt's and my arguments about this type of thing on previous shows, it WILL get brought up again.

6) Here is the detailed list of deleted scenes/differences from the adaptations, trailers and commercials of Iron Man 2: http://www.4thletter.net/2010/05/iron-man-2-the-deleted-scenes/ courtesy of Gavok at the 4th Letter.

7) Personal geek out moment: I am TOTALLY getting Legion of SuperHeroes this week. Two words: Paul Levitz.

8) Less said about the Sentry and Siege 4 the better.....

9) Maxim does a hottest 100 women in the world list and DOESN'T include Beyonce or Halle Berry??? What the....? http://espn.go.com/espn/page2/index?id=5180775

10) Smallville and Fringe both had me scratching my head for different reasons this week but the Supernatural season ender...what the HELL was that???? They better get another season to explain this latest mind-frak!!!!

In case you haven't heard:

Smallville: Absolute Justice featuring Checkmate and the JSA re-airs this week on the CW

Batman: Under The Red Hood Animated Movie will be released on July 27

Iron Man 2 won this weekend again....it intake worldwide totals $318.4 million dollars for 2 weeks....

Ok fantasy fans...this is Daryll B. signing out..until next time...Keep Fantasizing!!!

Don't Forget To Stop By Our Local Comic Shoppe Tues at 7pm ET-Talking Iron Man the Sequel & Comic Book Weekly Faves...But Now Words From Daryll B!

Let's jump in...the water's warm! Join The Comic Shoppe team tomorrow at 7pm eastern as we discuss all things pulp! The obvious issue will be our impressions of the Iron Man sequel but we will also cover the following: the future of 3D film making; more talk (again) of a Luke cage film being developed; more on the return of The Boondocks; some of Daryll B's links (below) and lastly, our favorite comic/graphic novel reads from the preceding week. Don't forget to drop us a line as the broadcast is LIVE! Dial 646-200-0104 or contact us vis email/im-thecomicshoppe@yahoo.com! And remember....Imperius Rex!

Hiya Party People... I must say I am glad not to be in the Iron Man 2 universe..I would have been blown up on the last day of the "Stark Expo"....but I digress...here are my quick hits for you:

Speaking of IM2

1) Jill Pantozzi has an interesting viewpoint on the comic movie "other woman" syndrome as it relates to Iron Man 2 http://splashpage.mtv.com/2010/05/05/iron-man-2-and-the-other-woman-scenario/

2) Loved the movie and although there are obvious plot holes (Cap's Shield or was that U.S. Agent's?!?!?!?) it seems I wasn't the only one....133 million+ domestic gross giving it a 290+ million first week combined worldwide.

3) Men In Black III or Bad Boys III? Looks like Will Smith has got a choice to make... and scan this article lower for the RZA/Eli Roth Kung Fu picture news... http://www.411mania.com/movies/columns/138519

4) As far as the trailers before the film goes, I loved the look of Inception. Despicable Me I think I will pass on. Super 8 looks like Cloverfield meets The Thing and I had the pleasure of seeing the latest The Last Airbender trailer... yeah I am SO seeing that...although I am wary of them fast forwarding through 20+ chapters of the anime in one movie....

5) Tired of a fanboy-ish view of comic news and craving something more intellectual? My latest blog recommendation to you all is "Too Busy Thinking About My Comics". This is the blog for you deep thinkers. Two great examples of this is last Friday's one comparing and contrasting the Lee/Ditko Peter Parker vs Bendis' Ultimate version:

http://toobusythinkingboutcomics.blogspot.com/2010/05/that-radical-brian-michael-bendis-part.html

and a very interesting dissection of "The Last Days of Animal Man":

http://toobusythinkingboutcomics.blogspot.com/2010/05/some-thoughts-on-last-days-of-animal.html

6) I watched Meet Dave again over the weekend followed by GalaxyQuest and I have to wonder this: why all the hate for M.D. and why all the love for GQ? They had essentially the same joke structure and dramedy elements. So why the difference in reviews?

7) If you have not seen it yet, Comic Book Resources writer has been running a "readers vote for the greatest stories ever told" series of columns: http://goodcomics.comicbookresources.com/category/the-greatest-stories-ever-told/ Up this week are George Perez, Magneto, Chuck Dixon, Ed Brubaker and Changeling

8) Um I still in a little shock from what I read here: http://www.spinoffonline.com/2010/05/07/liam-gallagher-producing-a-beatles-movie-oh-dear/ Yep you read that right... Liam Gallagher doing a last days of the Beatles movie... I think the British section of internet just crashed...

9) I'm sorry to all who don't know this by now but the Weeping Angels from Doctor Who are probably the scariest villains created for any science fiction, TV or movie, in the last 10 years.

10) I will close up the blog with this one question cribbed from the fine lads at The Weekly Crisis: Which "b-list" hero would you like to see get the movie treatment next? http://www.weeklycrisis.com/2010/05/top-10-tuesdays-ten-marvel-b-movies.html They stopped at Marvel but I opening it up to all books. Personally I would mark out for Runaways, Booster Gold, and a Dynamo 5 or Noble Causes movie...

This has been Daryll B. faithful Afronerd readers and until next time, Keep Fantasizing!!

Join Us Tuesday for Another Edition of The Comic Shoppe! The Boondocks Return!, Family Guy, Iron Man & Daryll B's Weekly Words of Pop Culture Wisdom!

As always, it's time to keep it structured and succinct! Join Daryll, Max and yours truly tomorrow evening at 7pm eastern to discuss the following pop culture tinged issues: our expectations for Iron Man 2, which is slated for its domestic release this Friday (it was released a week prior in the international markets, grossing 100 million thus far); our impressions of both The Family Guy's recently aired 150th episode and the Boondocks 3rd (potentially last) season opener; a recent Comic Book resources article posits when is it time to drop or refrain from reading a particular book; Ed Brubaker's graphic novel effort, Incognito gets the green light treatment and our weekly discussion regarding our latest comic book purchases. So don't be shy..call us live with your comments and/or protestations at 646-200-0104 oe via email/IM at thecomicshoppe@yahoo.com. See you guys (and gals) at the Shoppe broadcast at 7pm sharp! Excelsior!


The Comic Shoppe's Week in Review

Oh and here's the latest from The Comic Shoppe's Daryll B:

Iron Man 2 week so let me do the usual 10 shots across the Comic/Sci-Fi bow:

1) I opened this kettle of worms on last week's show and well New York Congressman Peter King fell right in http://www.deadline.com/2010/05/time-square-bombs-south-park-connection/#more-37587

2) Really CW? Another La Femme Nikita remake??? Mannnnn...well at least McG is being attached to the product and honestly judging by "Chuck", that's a great choice.

3) R.I.P. Lynn Redgrave.....Great lady...great actress.

4) Let the total guessing for IM2 begin http://www.deadline.com/2010/05/bulletproof-iron-man-2-already-grosses-10-million-overseas-155m-predicted-for-north-american-debut-weekend/

5) Kind of melancholy weekend for me...celebrated my birthday on Friday but lost a valued debate opponent in Alan Coil from the CBR comments sections. Alan always argued his points with an intelligent style and class that you could not to help but to gain a new knowledge about comics and fantasy. Thank you Alan, I hope to one day have 1/5th of the knowledge you had. http://goodcomics.comicbookresources.com/2010/05/03/r-i-p-alan-coil/

6) Boondocks premiere was on the nose about Obama and the hype/delusion that surrounded his entry into office. Best scene: Thugnificent on the Bill Maher Show. CLASSIC!

7) So how much does it take for you to drop a book? Well Sean T. Collins at Robot 6 links two interesting opinions about Blackest Night and Herogasm. As always, I have to give it up to the CBR commenters who bring a keen insight to the issue. http://robot6.comicbookresources.com/2010/04/with-comics-what-makes-you-say-okay-thats-enough/

8) Credibility check....I liked Death at a Funeral and Nightmare on Elm Street but as with Brave and the Bold #33 and Transformers, once I start analyzing WHY I liked them, my own arguments fall apart on me. I just have to be straight up with you all about this.

9) Terry Crews and Ice Cube together on a sitcom...I am either going to laugh my booty off or go into angry, disappointed shock. And is there any other rapper who has undergone as radical a change as Ice Cube and STILL remained popular?

10) Finally, Heroes season 5 is one the verge of approval but the folks at Topless Robot found a couple of things to manage their disappointment of that news... New G.I.Joe cartoon http://www.toplessrobot.com/2010/05/some_of_the_things_you_need_to_know_about_the_new.php and the Top 10 Bada$$ Batman comic moments http://www.toplessrobot.com/2010/04/batmans_10_most_incredibly_badass_comic_moments.php debatable and great fun.

That's it for me this week. I hope you all enjoy Iron Man 2.

Not To Be Preachy........But The Mind is Truly a Powerful Muscle......If Trained In Conjunction With the Body-Mature Fitness

While perusing the net this afternoon, I came across multiple stories centered around the amazing elder bodybuilder/fitness enthusiast, Ms. Ernestine Shepherd. Her story is truly inspirational and leaves one with the notion-there really are no (more) excuses. I just joined a second gym last week to break up the monotony and although I am energized, one still has to connect with stories such Shepherd's to realize that with the right mental fortitude anything can be accomplished. Shepherd, who is 73 years young, trains six times a week and runs approx. 80 miles in the same duration. And perhaps it stories like these, that remind me that we must root out the strain of self defeatism and victimization that literally paralyzes some folks of color from accomplishing goals they are fully capable of achieving. Here's more of Mrs. Shepherd's journey, courtesy of ABC News:

Body Building Grandma Ernestine Shepherd Bench Presses, Runs Marathons At 73
Grandmother Up Every Day at 3 a.m. and Says 'I Feel Better Than I Did at 40'


By SARAH NETTER
April 27, 2010



Taut abs and rippling muscles aren't exactly the stuff grandmothers are known for. But then again neither are marathons and cell phones that play the theme to "Rocky."
Body building grandma, 73, runs marathons, benches 150 lbs.

At 73, Ernestine Shepherd is in better shape than most people decades her junior. Up at 3 a.m. every morning, she spends her days running, lifting weights and working out other senior citizens at the Union Memorial United Methodist Church in Baltimore. She also works as a certified personal trainer at her gym.

"I feel better than I did at 40," she said. "I am very, very happy."

In less than 20 years, Shepherd has morphed from a "prissy" woman who never exercised to the Guinness Book of World Records' oldest female bodybuilder.

A die-hard "Rocky" fan -- "Sylvester Stallone is my man," she cooed -- Shepherd is preparing for a body building competition this weekend.

"I feel now that I am a very strong, positive and confident woman," she said. "Years ago I concerned myself about what people said concerning me. But when you get 70-something and you don't have that many years in front of you, you don't concern yourself with that."


Instead, Shepherd concerns herself with her carefully formulated diet -- 1,700 calories a day, mostly comprised of boiled egg whites, chicken, vegetables and a liquid egg white drink -- and packing in the workouts needed to maintain her stunning physique.

Shepherd runs about 80 miles per week and bench presses 150 pounds. Bicep curls are done with 15- and 20-pound dumbbells.

Married for 53 years and grandmother to a 13-year-old, Shepherd said she is exactly where she wants to be.

For the article in its entirety, click on the link below:

Body Building Grandma Ernestine Shepherd Bench Presses, Runs Marathons At 73


And not to be outdone, here's another peer of Mrs. Shepherd's reminding us that age truly is just a number:

Comic Shoppe 2nite at 7pm ET! Discussing South Park vs Muslims, The Decline of Sci-Fi on TV, Losers & More!

Let's keep it simple, folks! Join Max, Daryll and yours truly at tonight's Comic Shoppe show as we shed light on the following sci-fi/pop culture issues: recent terrorist threats aimed at South Park creators Trey Parker and Matt Stone pertaining to an animated Muhammad character; the slow decline in science fiction television programming; the possibility of smaller budgeted Marvel films (i.e. Ant-Man...no pun intended); a Black Aqualad?; Ghost Rider 2 without Nick Cage?-and lastly, our favorite comic picks from the previous week. So feel free to join us live at 646-200-014 or via IM/email at the comicshoppe@yahoo.com! And remember-be there, be square and always be aware! Imperius Rex!


The Comic Shoppe's Week in Review

And while you wait for tonight's broadcast (consider it our version of a cinematic intermission), check out this sci-fi video short forwarded to my attention from the good folks at BlackScienceFictionSociety.com. The film is entitled The Raven and was helmed by Peruvian director Ricardo De Montreuil. Enjoy!

A Few Disheartening Tales Serving As Proof That We May Be Nearing the End Of Civilization....

In the last few weeks I have come across a number of human disinterest stories that just boggles the mind and frankly makes it difficult to elucidate in a coherent manner. First, there was the story of a Colorado businessman that lost his finger due to an errant youth hell bent on separating him from his newly purchased iPad. And then there's the tragic death of a retired Hempstead, NY (Afronerdic haunting grounds) physician, Dr. Rebecca Twine-Wright who was mowed down on her front lawn by an 18 year old Oxycodone addicted driver who shortly after the incident exclaimed that she was relieved that Dr. Wright was "old." Wright, 69, who held several degrees and was described as an accomplished person of note, was simply tending her garden when she was struck by the allegedly drug addled youth. Click here for video of the driver at her very best. And lastly, the above video shows the demise of a 31 year old homeless person who lost his life while helping a woman who was being accosted by a thug who ultimately (and fatally) stabbed the hapless Samaritan. What makes this story even more tragic and unconscionable was the 2 hour surveillance footage that showed the dying man being ignored by passerbys, One individual was even brazen enough to inspect, roll the body, take a picture with his camera phone and still not call the authorities! Wow! I will refrain from editorializing on these issues and save my verbal assault for the next Afronerd Radio broadcast.....again, wow!

Just Pontificating Before We Get Into Comics, AZ's New Racial Profiling Law & Why You Can't Be a Good Samaritan!

Well, I know this is a innocuous matter but I just can't (or rather I refuse to)
understand the current state of music. As of late, I have been mesmerized by the infectious groove of the The Gorillaz' latest single, "Stylo" performed live in the above Colbert Report video clip. After taking a look at the latest Billboard listing, it appears that Stylo has only made an impact on the Alternative chart (presently 24th). I guess Afronerd readers are keenly aware of my constant lament-substantive and creative music is purposely being censored! How can a song that features the iconic Bobby Womack, the creative Gorillaz, the lyrical prowess of Mos Def and a cool video that features Bruce Willis miss? I have yet to hear this on any local hip hop station and yet the traffic for the Youtube video is north of three million views! Anyway, that's enough of my official rant.....next up, more ruminations of a serious nature and a preview of tomorrow's Comic Shoppe broadcast. And for your further edification, check out the official Stylo video:

For Tomorrow's Comic Shoppe-Discussing the Obvious: The "Kick Ass" film, Our Weekly Comic Faves & Daryll B's Words of Wisdom!

Hello again comic and pulp fiction fans! The Comic Shoppe will be open for the business of heavy graphic novel/sci-fi/fantasy discussion tomorrow at 7pm eastern. Join Dburt, Daryll and Max as they discuss the following: Marvel's Kick Ass movie performed below industry expectations but will word of mouth boost ticket sales?; more on our favorite comic books from the previous week and in taking cues from The Shoppe's Daryll B, we will also add to the discourse the issues brought up in his weekly Afronerd blog entry:

Interesting news from C2E2 starting with:
1. We all wondered what the Disney/Marvel business would mean to their animation division, well wonder no more. My problem with these plans is Iron Man is coming back but Spectacular Spider-Man and Wolverine & The X-Men is out??? Come on Marvel!!! http://www.comicbookresources.com/?page=article&id=25819
2. Walking Dead adds Brandon Routh and Jeffery DeMunn to the show. Can you say must watch? http://www.spinoffonline.com/2010/04/17/the-green-miles-jeffrey-demunn-joins-the-walking-dead/ and http://blog.newsarama.com/2010/04/12/the-walking-dead-series-just-got-a-little-bit-super/

3. O come on...they can't mess up the Jonah Hex movie can they? http://www.spinoffonline.com/2010/04/16/is-warners-jonah-hexed/

4. Can you say Hellboy 3? http://splashpage.mtv.com/2010/04/18/mike-mignola-hellboy-3-hellboy-2-guillermo-del-toro/

5. I personally liked Kick-Ass more than the comic....but I absolutely LOVED The Losers. Iron Man 2, the bar is set high for you once again.

6. I have heard of stupid lawsuits but this is the first I heard about Jeff Smith's Bone trying to been banned from libraries in Minnesota. This mother is waaaay off her rocker. If anything this is the book series to try and get kids INVOLVED in comics. http://www.comicbookresources.com/?page=article&id=25816

7. Heinberg, Cheung, YOUNG AVENGERS! http://www.newsarama.com/comics/c2e2-avengers-children-crusade-100417.html

8. I may not like some of the paths taken but it is hard not to get a little geeked up for the Flash and Green Lantern plans. http://www.newsarama.com/comics/c2e2-flash-green-lantern-100418.html

9. Vampire Jubilee??? Say what??? http://www.newsarama.com/comics/Marvel-X-Men-Teasers-100409.html

10. Kevin Conroy vs Christian Bale? I going with Conroy...lol http://tomztoyz.blogspot.com/2010/04/video-kevin-conroy-disses-christian.html

11. DC vs Trade Waiting? http://blog.newsarama.com/2010/04/16/dc-hopes-to-push-back-against-trade-waiting-will-it-work/

12. More Amanda Waller on Smallville!!!! Pam Grier has been awesome...and that confrontation with John Jones..totally hot!

13. I had worries about the New Doctor Who, with the premiere this past weekend consider them a little eased but the new companion may be the most annoying at first glance.

Enjoy Afronerd readers!

Remember It's Part 2 of Afronerd radio-Tonight at 7pm Eastern! More on Gabby vs Howard vs Jamie & Bill O'reilly vs Black people!

We ran out of time yesterday so it's time for par deux! A bit more on the Howard Stern vs Jamie Foxx vs Oprah vs Gabby Sidibe issue; Rev. Sharpton's recent National Action Network event in Harlem-NYC; Bill O'Reilly explains why he is laying off of Black topical coverage; a preview of tomorrow's Comic Shoppe discussion on the "Kick Ass" film and some parting words on the death of two great men-Civil Rights icon, Benjamin Hooks and noted journalist, David Mills.

Finally! Afronerd Radio Returns This Evening At 7pm Eastern! Howard Stern vs Jamie Foxx, Sharpton on TV-1, O'Reiily vs Racial Stigma & More!

It's definitely time to get back to business! Afronerd Radio returns for another fiery broadcast after a month plus long hiatus. Join us tonight at 7pm eastern as we discuss and bring heavy analysis to the following topics: the stalled Jamie Foxx vs Howard Stern beef over Oprah and Gabby Sidibe-what's it all about Gabby?; Rev. Sharpton appears to be one upping Tavis Smiley with his recent Harlem Black Agenda event/symposium; Fox's Bill O'Reilly recently exclaimed that he has lessened his coverage on Black topics for fear of being labeled a racist; yours truly actually saw marvel/Icon's Kick-Ass film and loved it; the untimely passing of Civil Rights' icon Benjamin Hooks and fellow blogger/journalist, David Mills (of the blog Undercover Blackman for the uninitiated) and lastly of course more exposure to tunes not played on conventional radio.....see you at 7pm!

Check The Comic Shoppe Tonight at 7pm (ET)-And Of Course Words of Wisdom From the Shoppe's Daryll B!

Join Max, Dburt & Daryll as they pontificate on all things pulp! The topics to be discussed are the following: our favorite graphic novel/comics from the previous week; Blade becoming an x-man? Our thoughts; Green Lantern’s suit might be CGI influenced; More on the Captain America film and the transformation needed to pull it off and a preview of the comic book movies slated for release this summer as well as Elephantmen being optioned for movie rights. Stop by at 7pm eastern for a lively discourse!

From March 23rd transcript:

So here it folks, it 6am on a Tuesday Morning in NY and I know I have to turn in a blog to Afronerd before we do another show. I am just sitting here with nothing pressing to write about except:

Great story by Greg Hatcher talking about his class of gifted cartooning youngsters. Once you read the article and see the pics you'll know which one I liked right away..(Hint: dude posing in pic, with pic AND artist is kinda a big deal in the Marvel U. right now) Now we have to convince Greg to shave hs head bald and get a wheel/hoverchair. Of course his wife might not be too keen on this... http://goodcomics.comicbookresources.com/2010/03/20/last-weekend-at-emerald-city-2010-or-the-cartooning-class-reunion/

Greg Burgas usually thinks outside the box and this article is no exception: http://goodcomics.comicbookresources.com/2010/03/22/how-kurt-busiek-unwittingly-ruined-marvel-and-dc-superhero-comics/
I love Busiek, but I can't deny that Greg brings up good points here.

The boys at The Weekly Crisis got into a pretty nice analysis on JMS and Wonder Woman...the good and the ill http://www.weeklycrisis.com/2010/03/jms-wonder-woman.html

Chris Evans is Captain America!?!?! http://www.newsarama.com/comics/Evans-Captain-America-100322.html Hmm does this mean a Fantastic Four / Avengers crossover movie is out of the question now?

I really don't know how I feel about this http://www.heatvisionblog.com/2010/03/warner-bros-prepping-film-adaptation-of-bleach-manga.html#more I mean Forbidden Kingdom was ok, Dragonball was bleh, Akira seems to be D.O.A., Avatar for 4 minutes of trailers looks ok and as I said to BlaqueRonin I have to worry about the other 94 minutes now. Death Note is coming and now Bleach? Looks like American Cinema wants to taint all of my cherished Anime love.

Fox vs Warner Bros AGAIN!!! http://www.latinoreview.com/news/bryan-singer-giant-killer-9513

We knew it had to happen: http://www.latinoreview.com/news/michael-bay-gives-transformers-3-update-9514 Can you say "Hot Rod"..? I know you can...

As far as quick tv news:

Survivors Season 2 begins tonight at 9pm on BBCAmerica.

Meanwhile Merlin returns to SyFy along with the new season of Stargate Universe on April 2....

This Friday is the Midseason break episode of Caprica....

and if you didn't like last week's Human Target with Lennie James from Jericho as Chance's Evil Protege' Baptiste I dunno what to tell ya...except this week has Timothy Highland from Highlander and Sanctuary and a certain lil "Boomer" from Battlestar Galactica named Grace Park...

Enjoy The Blog....Enjoy My Craziness...but above all else, Keep Fantasizing Afronerd Readers!

Oh..and check out this alternate Boondocks promo...

Check Out Tomorrow's Comic Shoppe Broadcast at 7pm-More on the Capt. America Movie (Bucky's in it!), Blackest Night Ends, Millar's Nemesis & More!

Shades of Grey - An Examination of Race Relations in Comic Books from jaystealth on Vimeo.

First up, let me give a grand hat tip to Sergio Mims of the Shadow and Act Black cinema blog for informing me of the above Shades of Grey comic themed documentary (a work in progress as it is currently billed). Shades appears to be an excellent and much needed piece on the historical depiction/representation of minorities in the world of pulp. And now for tomorrow's Comic Shoppe broadcast....stop by this Tuesday at 7pm (eastern) as Max, Daryll and yours truly discuss the following comic/sci-fi/fantasy issues: First we hear that Chris Evans (formerly, Johnny Storm of the Fantastic Four franchise) has been picked to play the lead in The First Avenger: Captain America and now Sebastian Stan (Hot Tub Time Machine, Gossip Girl) is set to star as Cap's sidekick, Bucky; DC's comic event Blackest Night came to a close with a (not so) surprise ending; Mark Millar proclaims his recently released Nemisis comic to be far superior to Kick Ass; our thoughts on this past weekend's Wondercon-San Francisco and our favorite graphic novel reads from the past couple of weeks. So feel free to join in our conversation by contacting us live at 646-200-0104 or via email/IM-thecomicshoppe@yahoo.com. And remember...make yours the Comic Shoppe!

The Comic Shoppe's Week in Review

Howard Stern VS Jamie Foxx Regarding Gabby Sidibe's Career!

First, Howard's take......



And now Jamie Foxx's Foxxhole Radio Show (also a Sirius XM production)...

Part 1



Part 2



I'll reserve my comments and analysis for an upcomingAfronerd Radio segment. Stay tuned!

"We Count" or The More Aptly Named "State of the Black Agenda....ahem Black Union-RELOADED"

Well It's been a week since President Obama signed his health care bill and the world has irrevocably changed...or has it. The neo-tea party movement, inclusive of many of my hard line fellow Republicans are incensed, frustrated and plodding (or is that plotting) toward this years mid-term elections. In spite of my Republican voter card, I remain indifferent to the concept of alleged socialized medicine. I suspect that many conservatives would label me a RINO (Republican In Name Only) since I am supportive of this president and simply not a right wing ideologue. I prefer the "wait and see" approach. The bill has not yet been finalized and there's no public option attached, so it's more of a boon to private insurers as they will expect anywhere from 30 to 40 million new customers. But you're probably asking-"what does this have to do with the above clip?"

If you have been paying close attention to recent internet chatter, there was a pretty heated on air spat between Rev. Al and PBS commentator, Tavis Smiley pertaining to the need for a "Black Agenda." And believe it or not, I actually sided with Sharpton! It's his contention that it may not be prudent for the nation's first Black president to openly broadcast or spearhead a Black agenda-emphasis on the word, openly. So what does Smiley decide to do? He streamlines his decade old State of the Black Union event, names We Count, holds it at Chicago State University and invites the same cast of tired Black progressives from the previous incarnations. Many believed that this latest event was just a round table excuse to bash President Obama for failing to focus on Black issues. The irony is...."Obamacare" passes during the same weekend as the Smiley affair-undoubtedly helping millions of Black and Brown folks who are the chronically uninsured. I implore you to take a look at the above clip decide whether the invitees have egg on their faces or were they speaking truth to power. I like my eggs scrambled.

An interesting piece from NPR's Michelle Alexander.....But I Don't Agree Wholeheartedly-"The Nation: The New Jim Crow"

While taking a walk down the cyber halls of the NPR website, I came across an article from NPR's Michelle Alexander entitled, The Nation: The New Jim Crow in which she posits that the breakdown of the Black family in conjunction with minority incarceration rates is analogous to the discrimnation/segregation standard of the pre-Civil Rights era. I believe the issue is far more complex and nuanced than her assertion. Here's an excerpt, courtesy of NPR.com:

Obama's mere presence in the Oval Office is offered as proof that "the land of the free" has finally made good on its promise of equality. There's an implicit yet undeniable message embedded in his appearance on the world stage: this is what freedom looks like; this is what democracy can do for you. If you are poor, marginalized, or relegated to an inferior caste, there is hope for you. Trust us. Trust our rules, laws, customs, and wars. You, too, can get to the promised land.

Perhaps greater lies have been told in the past century, but they can be counted on one hand. Racial caste is alive and well in America.

Most people don't like it when I say this. It makes them angry. In the "era of colorblindness" there's a nearly fanatical desire to cling to the myth that we as a nation have "moved beyond" race. Here are a few facts that run counter to that triumphant racial narrative:

• There are more African-Americans under correctional control toda—-- in prison or jail, on probation or parol—-- than were enslaved in 1850, a decade before the Civil War began.

• As of 2004, more African-American men were disenfranchised (due to felon disenfranchisement laws) than in 1870, the year the Fifteenth Amendment was ratified, prohibiting laws that explicitly deny the right to vote on the basis of race.

• A black child born today is less likely to be raised by both parents than a black child born during slavery. The recent disintegration of the African-American family is due in large part to the mass imprisonment of black fathers.

• If you take into account prisoners, a large majority of African-American men in some urban areas have been labeled felons for life. (In the Chicago area, the figure is nearly 80 percent.) These men are part of a growing underca—e -- not class, ca—e -- permanently relegated, by law, to a second-class status. They can be denied the right to vote, automatically excluded from juries, and legally discriminated against in employment, housing, access to education, and public benefits, much as their grandparents and great-grandparents were during the Jim Crow era.

To review the article in its entirety, click on the link below:

The Nation: The New Jim Crow

More of my opinion and synopsis after the jump............

Ok, I know it's been approximately two weeks since that "jump" but you know what they say....better late than...

Anywho....after reading Ms. Alexander's NPR piece, I became frustrated and disheartened with its non sequiturs. At times I honestly try to keep my contrarian sensibilities in check but in the last few years I can't help but view matters from a more centered perspective instead of a wholesale tribal viewpoint. A glaring example that irked me was this excerpt from Alexander:


"There are more African-Americans under correctional control today in prison or jail, on probation or parole than were enslaved in 1850, a decade before the Civil War began."

I'm not doubting the above statement is factual but its the implications that Alexander is attempting to convey about minority incarceration versus historical chattel slavery that are problematic. Sure, one can liken colonial servitude to new millennium imprisonment but the obvious demarcation point lies with the unique concept of free will. Slaves were captured human beings that committed no infractions except for being able bodied and Black. Committing a crime, especially a heinous one, relies on some degree of personal decision making. We can pontificate on the disparity of sentences between our minority and White citizenry but to ascribe ubiquitous victimization to those who victimize others (especially our brethren) appears to be tiresome and disingenuous at best. But let's hear from our readers...any thoughts? Are we really looking at rising incarceration rates in Black and brown communities as the new age Jim Crow?

The Comic Shoppe Returns! Tues at 7pm-Discussing Predators, Agent Smith as The Red Skull, Watchman 2 ? and Daryll B's Latest Op-ed!

We're back and in full effect! Join Max, Daryll and yours truly, tomorrow at 7pm eastern as we discuss the latest pop/pulp culture news. During Tuesday's Comic Shoppe broadcast, we will discuss the following topics: our impressions of the Robert Rodriguez' reboot/sequel, Predators; Watchman 2? (maybe or maybe not); Sarah Connor's Summer Glau gets a new superhero gig, courtesy of NBC; further analysis of DC and Marvel's Blackest Night and Siege major event story lines; Agent Smith (Hugo Weaving of the Matrix films) to play Captain America's Red Skull?...and lastly our favorite graphic novel reads from the last few weeks. And feel free to stop by with your comments/questions at-646-200-0104 or via email/IM-thecomicshoppe@yahoo.com. And remember make yours the Comic Shoppe!

The Comic Shoppe's Week in Review


And now, the latest words of pulp wisdom from the Shoppe's Daryll B:

I suppose I am in a position now to have to back up what I have said on the show about DC's Blackest Night and Marvel's Siege events and know that I will because I have 5 common arguments about both events. These arguments will let you all decide whether I have valid points or just have event fatigue:

1. It is not uncommon to have 2 or more writers having different "voices" for the same character and that is fine because we all don't think the same. However, when it is the SAME writer giving their character two different personas/voices in the same event? That is all sorts of wrong to me. Johns, with Hal Jordan and the Corps and Bendis, with Osborn along with most of the Avengers have been guilty of this on numerous occasions.

2. Both events for all of the groundwork being laid down for years seem to be rushed. Think about this, for both events and all the manipulations to get to where they are now, you would think the Big Bads in both would have a better handle or plan than what has been shown.

3. Don't get me wrong, I am a Fanboy by nature BUT I do not want plot sacrificed for "OOOOH Fanboy-gasm" moments. You folks have heard me rant on things like Ganthet needing a green lantern ring or Sentry dispatching Ares the God of War in 3 pages in the MIDST OF A WAR! Do these writers think the majority of their readers are dumb? ...ok ok *deep breathe*

4. Speaking of events not lining up, for example just look at the Siege timeline between New Avengers, Dark Avengers, Siege, Invincible Iron Man and Thor involving the Thor beatdown and Maria Hill. You would think editorial would line these events up better. I wouldn't laugh too much DC because the lining up of GLC and GL has been horrid also. Think about this: In one book you get an explanation on how to defeat the Black Lanterns. You would think that the Lantern in question would spread that news out RIGHT AWAY to his comrades? Try 2 issues later and it is a member of a different Corps who does it.

5. Inconsistent power levels and too many extraneous books for my tastes. How do the Hawks get taken out right away in 3 pages but Ma Kent, Batman and Robin last 3 issues with light injuries? How does Sentry all of a sudden have powers topping a God's? Did we need the oversaturation of books from both companies that lightly touched on the event?

Saying all of this, there are some gems in my hatred. Avengers: Initiative and Green Lantern Corps have been BETTER than the stupid events they tie into. The Suicide Squad/Secret Six crossover and the Dark Reign: Electra and Zodiac minis were great in their own rights. I am just frustrated that I could see potentially epic stories of greatness here from both companies that have been utterly wasted.

Quick Hits:

I love the interviews that Newsarama does in and around the fantasy industry. However DON'T give me an interview you did a year ago that I read about Chuck and try to pass it off like you just did it before THIS season: http://www.newsarama.com/tv/Chuck-Levi-Gomez-Interview-100305.html

I have to give Newsarama credit though, they had the news of Smallville's renewal up a good 8 hours before the rest of the comics 'net verse.

Here you go Dburt, the first official video for the London Souls. The song is called "The Sound" and I caught it on MTV2 late night over the weekend: http://www.mtv.com/videos/the-london-souls/485467/the-sound.jhtml#id=1632531

Got to give credit to Greg Burgas over at Comic Book Resources for his article on politics and superheroes. Definitely a good read for heavy thinking comic fans: http://goodcomics.comicbookresources.com/2010/03/01/the-political-leanings-of-superhero-comics-revealed/

Thank you Gail Simone for your work on Wonder Woman. Best of luck on Birds of Prey. And a hearty welcome back to comics to Devin Grayson who did a great story involving Jean Grey, Cyclops, and Wolverine in last week's Girl Comics #1.

Green Lantern movie in 3D...now that's awesome...wait got one thing else....Boondocks Season 3 scheduled to begin May 2nd according to Adult Swim

Thanks for reading Afronerd followers and until next time, Keep Fantasizing.

More on Precious-But This Time It's A Debate-Columnist Stanley Crouch Vs NYU Film Professor Sheril D. Antonio

More on this debate, last night's Oscars and Precious' Monique in a few......

Okay, it's a week later but again, better late than never! After viewing the above exchange, I was a bit surprised at Mr. Crouch's stance on the Precious film. Crouch has been a vigilant critic of the minstrel elements endemic in current (and commercial) hip hop culture and yet he is somewhat conciliatory as it relates to this particular cinematic effort. The only thing I can surmise (and this might also be construed as a capitulation on my part) is that the film and by extension Ms. Sidibe's acting prowess (and Monique's, of course) might be better appreciated if this type African-American depiction didn't exist in a vacuum when compared to other current Black works. The majority culture (aka "White") possesses a "full plate" when it comes to artistic diversity. Black multi-faceted cultural displays exist but are not readily accepted, promoted or exposed. In other words, Precious (as a film and archetypal film) sets a standard and utterly exists alone for Black cultural representation. Without an appropriate counter balance, Precious promulgates a dangerous message of minority failure. But I've said this before....again, am I wrong? More comments from our readers....

Check Out The Comic Shoppe, Tues at 7pm-Discussing How I Just Discovered The UK's "Being Human; Nolan Doing JLA & Supes?, Next DC Animated & More!

To keep matters succinct....stop by tomorrow at 7pm in order to listen to another pop/pulp culture and comic laden broadcast, thanks to the Comic Shoppe crew! Join Daryll, Max and yours truly as we shed light on the latest sci-fi/comic/fantasy oriented issues: our thoughts on the next DC animated effort (after the JLA Crisis saga) will be Batman: Under the Red Hood; it appears that Chris Nolan (and his brother) may have influence over not only the Supes reboot but also a prospective JLA film; my recent discovery of the BBC's Being Human (think Three's Company as a dramedy with supernatural creatures); more independent comic book highlights and lastly, our favorite graphic novel reads from the previous year. So feel free to call us "live" at 646-915-9620 or via email/IM-afronerdradio.com.


The Comic Shoppe's Week in Review


And now here's the latest op-ed from the Comic Shoppe's Daryll B!

Hi Afronerd Followers. Once again it is time for a little quick fantasy fun with Daryll B.:

This is the current Comic Critics strip http://goodcomics.comicbookresources.com/2010/02/28/comic-critics-107/ and no other comic hits the life and times of comic book fans and fanatics like this. Kudos to Sean Whitmore and Brandon Hanvey for allowing me to laugh at myself every week.

If you are a science fiction / fantasy fan and have not read any of Robert Jordan's Wheel of Time novels, I cannot recommend them enough. Here is the interview with Brandon Sanderson over at CBR: http://www.comicbookresources.com/?page=article&id=25006 He is essentially Jordan's Heir to the "Time" throne.

Can Dynamite over-saturate the Green Hornet market enough? 5 freaking books planned by April for release? Are you guys taking tips from Marvel's handling of Deadpool? I have to give Dynamite credit though for picking up Charliene Harris (True Blood's Author) and the rights to Dabel Bros. library. That is quite the catalog of books to manage.

Flash Rebirth #6...HAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHHAHAHAHAHAHA Could Johns could swipe enough beats from Mark Waid's run or what?

Speaking of "copying"..all the credit in the world to Radical Publishing in their handling of the Nick Simmons fiasco. This is the original blog that kicked the controversy off: http://community.livejournal.com/bleachness/446299.html and a fun retrospective does by the fine bloggers at Newsarama: http://blog.newsarama.com/2010/02/26/incarnate-controversy-keeps-heating-up/ Dude, seriously, if you are going to plagiarize someone's work...Bleach (among others) is like in the top 5 selling Manga WORLDWIDE. You stupid man...Gene talk to your boy!

Hmm is it me or does this feel like a panic move by DC in the Superman rights case? http://blog.newsarama.com/2010/02/28/dc-fires-lawyers-in-siegel-superman-case/ You know who is paying close attention to this? Kirby, Marvel and Disney..for obvious reasons.

That's it for me this week as I try to contemplate what I just read in Blackest Night and Siege. Yes, I am still trying to make heads or tails of these events. You look up glutton for punishment in the dictionary and you will see a smiling Daryll B. a la "Buddy Christ" from Dogma.

Until Next Week, Keep Fantasizing Folks!