Amazing Stories
TONY Antonuk
30,000 Comics! TOP
TRADES
4
DECEPTICONS
Who Should Lead in the New Movie!
The Smoking Man
Featured Articles
12
His first major series, Comeback, written by Ed Brisson
8 18 32 34
Flip Side: Davis Horden Interviews
Tony Antonuk
Ultimate Power Duo Presents Space Joe
DC’s Top 10 Trades
Here’s the scoop on Detective Comics
Smoke & Mirrors
Smoking Man: An Interview with William B. Davis
Cover Art by Michael Walsh
2
PUNCH
Psychoanalyzing Superman Pen Pals: My First Con Adventure Hulk on Homes Article by Jeff Kocur
30
Saskatoon Expo Information We Choose Our Friends Alone
Toy King Ken Davis on Toy Collecting 4 Decepticons Who Should Lead in the New Movie Fan Art Showcasing Local Artists
A fanzine made by local comic lovers for comic lovers here in Saskatoon.Ding! We’re back for round two! This issue features even more beautiful and inspiring work from our talented city. Once again, the response was overwhelming. You will be pleased to see more articles and art about the things that you are passionate about; everything from Manga and Cosplay, to magic, all your favorite Superheroes, and just about everything in-between. You will need a heart wrenching tale of a comic-con dream that almost died, but was saved by the graces of friendship; dip into the psyche of the man of steel; sneak a peek into the world of what Transformers could be; and so much more! This issue also kicks off in time to celebrate the first ever Saskatchewan Entertainment Expo! We are fortunate enough to have the opportunity to interview two of the guests, Canadian artist Michael Walsh, and cult icon from the X-Files, William B Davis, better known as the Smoking Man. The subject matter between these convers is diverse, but what all the pages have in common is‌love. Love has motivated the artists and writers to share their affections with the rest of us. And we are grateful. Thanks to all the contributors for another great issue of PUNCH! Volume 2
4 6 10 17 36 40 42
306.242.8996 amazingstories@mac.com amazingstoriescomics #270-2600 8th Street East
Amazing Stories Webpage
3
With the release of the new trailer for Zack Snyder’s upcoming Superman film, Man of Steel, brings forth once again the question of identity and masks in the Superman character. A debate that swirls around the concept of which belongs to his real self and which is the false identity that Superman is deliberately performing. Is Clark Kent the real self while Superman the façade? Or is the reverse true?
C
omplicating the issue is that there are in fact three facets to the Superman personality; Clark Kent, Superman, last son of Krypton, as well as Kal-El. The 1978 Superman movie shows us that Superman does have access to Kryptonian culture. It can be argued that this aspect is too removed and distant to be have the full impact on his identity, but in actuality I would postulate that it is in fact more significant access to cultural heritage than humans have. As a mortal I do not have the facility to interact and have a dialogue with my ancestors. In this regard Superman has a greater knowledge of his genealogical past than we humans do.
ized in a monologue by Bill in Quentin Tarantino’s Kill Bill. Although as any historian of comic book criticism would know, that monologue is taken almost word for word from Jules Feiffer’s 1965 book Great Comic Book Heroes. Finally there is the physical reality of his extraordinary abilities. As Jules Feiffer points out, when Superman wakes up in the morning he is that powerful being known as Superman. Not only is it psychologically unbelievable that a powerful being from an alien world would be able to comfortably fit into our society.
Douglas Rassmussen Article
Jordan Ratzlaff Artwork
It is this aspect of an isolated alien from another world, another culture that separates Superman from mortals. Central to this concept is a Superman whose extraordinary origins form the basis of his real self. Superman as the authentic self and not just a public role has been taken up by Grant Morrison in All-Star Superman, one of the better explorations of the Superman mythos, who undertook his project with this perspective in mind. The concept was also popular-
4
PUNCH
Marie McNEILL
H
Curtis Witt had the chance to meet with Stan Lee at the 2013 Calgary Comic Expo
6
i my name is Curtis, and would like to share my experience at my very first convention at the Calgary Comic Expo in April 2013. I went along with my friends Jordan and Adam. Stan Lee was the main reason we went to the convention. I’ve waited most of my life for this opportunity, and knowing he is getting up there in age and might not be to do conventions much longer, I decided this was my best chance to meet him. I remember when I was 12 years old; I and my brothers would always try to watch TV shows that would have Stan Lee on it. We would tell each other how cool it would be to meet him. Well, on Friday April 26th, that dream became a reality. I anxiously waited in line with Jordan for over 3 hours for him to make his appearance; unfortunately he came a bit late, but what an entrance! The crowd cheered and screamed as he sat down, and he’s still looking great!
PUNCH
I had purchased an art poster reprint of the cover to Amazing Fantasy #15, the first appearance of Spider-man, and brought it along for him to sign. I was concerned about black ink not appearing well on the poster, so I also brought a gold pen for him to sign it with. Unfortunately, when Stan Lee signed the poster with my pen, the pen exploded and there was a big pool of gold goop that was mildly in the shape of his signature. I set it aside, hoping it would dry, but eventually I had to move along and the ink ran everywhere – the poster and signature were ruined. At this time my eye started to twitch and I felt sick to my stomach. After all the waiting, the planning, the anticipation, this was how it worked out. However, this story still has a happy ending. After these events, I left, broken-hearted, to my photo-op I had with Stan. While I was doing that, Jordan and Adam took it upon themselves to right what had happened. They looked around the convention and bought a poster that was similar to the one I had, and then the next day, they waited in line and got the new poster signed by Stan Lee, this time with a regular pen, and gave it to me. I was still a bit upset at how everything went down initially, but their gesture and effort meant a lot to me and I was truly thankful that it all worked out in the end. I met many celebrities over the weekend, but my favorite person to meet at the convention was Cary Elwes; he seemed to genuinely care about fans. I also got to sit in the Delorean from Back To The Future, which was another highlight. My only wish at the time was that there was plutonium in the tank and had enough road to reach 88 mph, so I could go back in time to warn myself about not using that blasted pen! Overall the experience was great and now that I’ve had my first taste, I feel I will start going to more cons. Oh, and just stick to the tried and true pens that the celebrities have with them, or you could end up like me!
Curtis Witt Article
Volume 2
Amazing Fantasy #15 The first appearance of Spider-man Writer: Stan Lee Published: August 10, 1962
7
Spider-man Marvel Comics Issue #1
The Walking Dead Image Comics Issue #6
Green Lantern Green Arrow DC Comics Issue #85
Before that he did the Hulk. BeDo you remember the first And you saved them? No. They were read and thrown fore that I was reading a lot of comic you bought? Green Lantern/Green Arrow. Both of them on the cover. I’d guess around #35. I’d put them up on the window, then a piece of paper and trace them.
out 20 years later. They were trashed. Covers missing, our names written all over them.
Punisher and XMen.
Did you always read Superheroes?
Did you ever use Silly Put- Sometimes I’d get Archie because of my sister. ty on your comics?
How many comics do you Silly putty was huge. It was the Did you have periods way to go. have? About 30,000 when you left comics? What is your favorite now, When Collector’s Edge burned down. Mid 90s. I was sick and What age were you when and when did you start? you started collecting? Spiderman, around 1983? When they had a big stack waiting for FIve.
8
Todd McFarlane started.
me, and they were burned.
PUNCH
What got you back?
I heard there was a Batman Dark Knight 2. I went to Jeff’s store and was told it wasn’t that good, but I got it anyway. And there was a Spiderman/ Green Goblin, and then Walking Dead #6. Then it snowballed.
When did it become a big hobby again?
2 years later, early 2000s. I was done school, shad extra money. And I gave it to Jeff. Eventually, I had to cut down my file. And Jeff was sad. But then you came in! (they both Laugh) I’m still spending over $150 a week.
Spiderman #1 signed by Todd McFarlane. It was a gift from my brother. It has a certificate. It’s numbered. It’s really cool. Came out late 80s.
What new comics are you reading?
I read Star Wars, Age of Ultron is awesome. Superior Spiderman.
If you were the editor of Marvel what changes would you make? Bring back Amazing Spiderman, bring Mary Jane back, and make Peter not such a dork. I’d bring back Hulk as Hulk. Be like they used to be. I’d change all the new stuff back.
Have you ever sold any of your comics? No. The only things I’ve lost are what my Mom threw away. I can’t imagine selling.
Do you have all your comics listed?
Yes. On pieces of paper. I have 9 long boxes left to inventory, but everything is bagged and boarded. It takes a lot of time. TV is better than putting your comics in boxes.
Volume 2
9
Y
ears ago, the Incredible Hulk became a household name by showing puny humans how devastating his strength could be when pestered by the military and superhuman villains. Nowadays, the Hulk has focused his rage on poorly constructed homes. His team of approved home inspectors is providing the most thorough, high quality home inspection services available. A heart-wrenching letter has led The Hulk to the front door of a homeowner named Mike Steel. His trailer unit and those in his trailer park, located close to super-villain prison The Raft, sustained major damage from the latest super-villain breakout led
by Electro which freed all the prisoners. “Hulk get stupid letter. Hulk see if trailer worth saving” The damage done to the trailers is the fourth time in the last 3 years that a prison breakout has affected Mr Steel’s home.
Look like Hulk footprints!
“Hulk not laugh so hard since he punched Galactus in rear end.” Starting with the roof, Hulk suggests some changes. Moving onto the interior lighting and wiring Hulk suggests some changes. Checking the flooring, Hulk observes some problems with the original construction.
“Hulk find lots of holes in floor. Look like Hulk footprints. Oh... They are Hulks footprints.” A further inspection on the interior walls reveals improper fitting and mudding in the drywall. “Hulk can see where poor workmanship has led to problems. Not enough care was taken in the fitting and cutting stage. Ha ha. Hulk sound like Holmes on Homes.” Going around the back, Hulk sees the patio concrete pad is uneven and cracked.
Jeff Kocur
Article
James Zintel
Artwork
10
PUNCH
Nathen WAHL
Are you formally trained? Where did you go to school? Is it necesary to follow that route, or do you feel it’s possible to be successful if you’re selftaught?
Canadian artist Michael Walsh has been drawing comics for as long as he can remember. “My mom likes to tell people that I could fingerprint the ninja turtles before I could talk. I always knew I would be an artist of some sort and after college I decided to put all my energy into comic art.” His first major series, Comeback, written by Ed Brisson, was released by Image Comics in November to wide acclaim. He is currently creating art for the X-Files, and is launching a new series, Zero, with Ales Kot this fall. Michael was kind enough to share some insights into the life of a professional illustrator.
12
I attended OCAD in Toronto and have a BA in Illustration. I don’t think it is necessary at all as long as you have a strong work ethic, direction and the will to learn and improve. It does help with understanding how to take a negative critique and interact with peers. I learned more from other students than I did from my teachers. When did art become your full time job and how did it feel?I quit my day job a few months before Comeback got picked up as I was getting a ton of commis
PUNCH
sions and had a few other small gigs lined up. I figured without a day job I would be more motivated to get full time comic work and I was right! It felt great to be doing what I love full time. It’s a privilege not a lot of people get to experience and it’s extremely rewarding.
How do you draw? Are you a diligent, disciplined, draw every day kind of guy?
day to ink all those pencils as inking is usually a little faster than pencilling.
What is your favorite medium? My favourite medium is plain old India ink and brushes. It’s the most cathartic part of the process where I can let my arm do the work and my mind gets to rest.
What does your process In comics you can’t afford to not look like? Do you have be working. Right now I’m draw- any favorite supplies... ing 6 days a week ten hours a paper, pens? day. If I’m hung up on something I just move on and keep working then come back to said hang-up. I find it fastest to spend a few days pencilling and then take a
Michael Walsh
My two new tools I’m in love with are a Blue Pilot Color Eno mechanical pencil (the first easily erasable non photo blue pencil
I’ve found) and FW Artists Ink (It’s acrylic based so it dries a nice and thick matte black, makes the original art more appealing to potential buyers) My current process is as follows: I thumbnail the pages in photoshop, using just a regular round Pencil tool and a page template I created. All the photoshop drawing is done on a bamboo tablet. After these are approved I blow up the thumbnails and pencil them in photoshop. I’m not too finicky at this point as I do a lot of drawing during the inking phase but I do make sure everything Is tight enough so that all the anatomy and perspective is worked out. I then print these pencils out in a light non-photo blue onto an 11x17 strathmore paper.
13
Sometimes I do a bit more pencilling the the Pilot Color Eno that I mentioned but most of the time I just jump into inks. I use a variety of tools and am constantly experimenting with new inking techniques. I use #4 brush quite a bit and also brush pens from zebra and pentel. I use the Pentel Pocket correction pen for any errors and a good old toothbrush for splattering ink or masking fluid. After I’m done inking I scan back into photoshop and format the pages, making any last adjustments before sending to the editor.
How long have you participated in Artists’ Alley at comic-cons? How successful were you? What advice would you give fledgling artists hoping to break into comics? I’ve been in the artist alley game for about 2 years now. I’ve always been decently successful at cons as I have pretty cheap, eye-catching prints that sell really well. I always do commissions for relatively cheap and bring a boat load of original sketches in case my commission list fills up. As for con advice, I would say to find a way to make your work stand out amongst the dozens of artists in AA. Make the prints bold and position them so that people walking by can see them. Also, don’t undervalue your worth! At my first con I was charging ten dollars for full figure sketches and my list filled up quick. At the end of the day its better to charge a little more and do a few less to give yourself some breathing room, less stressful that way.
14
PUNCH
Michael Walsh will be a guest at the Saskatchewan Entertainment Expo in September.
Who is/was your biggest influence artistically? Are there any artists/writers in the comic world that particularly inspire you? If you could work with anyone on your next project, who would it be? I have so many influences its impossible to name just one but I’ll try and keep it brief, Alex Toth (Zorro, Torpedo, etc), David Mazzuchelli (Batman: Year One), Mike Mignola (Hellboy), then there are tons of modern artists I look to for inspiration as well, including Samnee, Aja, Lark, Phillips, Leon … the list goes on and on (I read a ton of comics). For my next project? I’d love to take a crack at something in the Hellboy/BPRD universe under the penmanship of Mignola/Arcudi. Also I’ve been loving Locke & Key and I feel I’d be a good match for the writing of Joe Hill.
Do you do other artwork in your spare time? Is it stylistically similar to your technique in Comeback? Spare time? HA. I’m a comic artist, I don’t have spare time! My work schedule is pretty demanding so I don’t find myself creating artwork for fun. That said if my load does lighten at all in the next few months I want to do a short fantasy webcomic that’s been brewing in my head for the last bit. Would be a dark fairy tale in the vein of Pan’s Labrynth.
What artwork are you most proud of? This really changes from day to day. As of TODAY I am probably most happy with a particular sequence from the first issue of X-Files that I just got back fully coloured by Jordie Bellaire (Coloring Godess). Looking back I’m still pretty happy with how the covers to Comeback all turned out. It’s great seeing them all in a row popping off the comic shelves.
How did you get on board with Image Comics? Are they good to work for? How do you like the other titles in that line? Image itself is a hard nut to crack and it took quite a few pitches before we had any response from them, perseverance and patience were key. Image is great as there isn’t very much editorial influence and we were given pretty much free reign on the interior pages. Michael Walsh
15
X-Man. I like that he is so many different things, dude grew up in the circus looking like a Demon, yet ended up being a priest. He’s a swashbuckling ladies man with values, and he really has a sense of childlike charm to him. I think my favourite character ever MIGHT be Hellboy. Today it’s Hellboy. He has a giant right hand Without spilling the beans, what can you that is the key to unlocking 7 Lovecraft inspired reveal about your upcoming release, dragons which will bring about the end of the world but he chooses to use that hand to smoke cigars Zero? and drink whisky. Yeah I just convinced myself. FaZero is the brainchild of Ales Kot. It’s a series set vourite character. in the near future that flips all the What books are currently tropes of super spy fiction on your favorites? their head. It’s an ongoing series with a different artist on each issue. I’m working on the first issue Been reading on a bit of a Lovewhich is set in Palestine, it’s been craft kick lately. Also loved the newa blast to draw so far. est Dark Tower novel : The Wind Through the Keyhole by Stephen King. It’s been great to return to On your blog, you say that Mid-World, if only for a little while. Nightcrawler is your favorImage is one of my favourite publishers and they are pumping out a bunch of my favourite books right now. Including Saga, Fatale, The Manhattan Projects, Nowhere Men, Prophet, Walking Dead… They have way too many good books to name. I could sit here rhyming them off all day.
ite comic character. Why?
Hm, did I say that? You guys did your homework! I don’t know if he’s my favourite character today? He might be my favourite
16
Jody Cason Article
Michael Walsh Artwork PUNCH
Ultimate Power Duo He is currently creating art for the X-Files, and is launching a new series, Zero, with Ales Kot this fall. Elaine was kind enough to share some insights into the life of a professional illustrator. Are you formally trained? Where did you go to school? Is it necesary to follow that route, or do you feel it’s possible to be successful if you’re self-taught? I attended OCAD in Toronto and have a BA in Illustration. I don’t think it is necessary at all as long as you have a strong work ethic, direction and the will to learn and improve. It does help with understanding how to take a negative critique and interact with peers.
18
I learned more from other students than I did from my teachers. When did art become your full time job and how did it feel? I quit my day job a few months before Comeback got picked up as I was getting a ton of commissions and had a few other small gigs lined up. I figured without a day job I would be more motivated to get full time comic work and I was right! It felt great to be doing what I love full time. It’s a privilege not a lot of people get to experience and it’s extremely rewarding.
How do you draw? Are you a diligent, disciplined, draw every day kind of guy? In comics you can’t afford to not be working. Right now I’m drawing 6 days a week ten hours a day. If I’m hung up on something I just move on and keep working then come back to said hang-up. I find it fastest to spend a few days penciling and then take a day to ink all those pencils as inking is usually a little faster than penciling. What is your favorite medium? My favorite medium is plain old India ink and brushes.
PUNCH
How much does technology assist in your creative process? Technology helps me in a bunch of different ways, the most helpful of which is that it saves me time (one of the most important commodities to a comic artist). I mostly use the computer for preliminary drawing, penciling, printing/ scanning and looking up building/gun/car reference. It’s a valuable tool and helps me every day.
(It’s acrylic based so it dries a nice and thick matte black, makes the original art more appealing to potential buyers) My current process is as follows: I thumbnail the pages in photoshop, using just a regular round Pencil tool and a page template I created. All the photoshop drawing is done on a bamboo tablet. After these are approved I blow up the thumbnails and pencil them in photoshop. I’m not too finicky at What does your process look like? Do you have this point as I do a lot of drawing during the inkany favorite supplies... paper, pens? My two new ing phase but I do make sure everything Is tight tools I’m in love with are a Blue Pilot Color Eno enough so that all the anatomy and perspective is mechanical pencil (the first easily erasable non worked out. I then print these pencils out in a light photo blue pencil i’ve found) and FW Artists Ink non-photo blue onto an 11x17 strathmore paper.
Ultimate Power Duo Presents Space Joe
19
Are you formally trained? Where did you go to school? Is it necesary to follow that route, or do you feel it’s possible to be successful if you’re self-taught? I attended OCAD in Toronto and have a BA in Illustration. I don’t think it is necessary at all as long as you have a strong work ethic, direction and the will to learn and improve. It does help with understanding how to take
20
a negative critique and interact with peers. I learned more from other students than I did from my teachers. When did art become your full time job and how did it feel? I quit my day job a few months before Comeback got picked up as I was getting a ton of commissions and had a few other small gigs lined up. I figured without a day job I would be more moti-
vated to get full time comic work and I was right! It felt great to be doing what I love full time. It’s a privilege not a lot of people get to experience and it’s extremely rewarding. How do you draw? Are you a diligent, disciplined, draw every day kind of guy? In comics you can’t afford to not be working. Right now I’m drawing 6 days a week ten hours a day. If I’m hung up
PUNCH
on something I just move on and keep working then come back to said hang-up. I find it fastest to spend a few days penciling and then take a day to ink all those pencils as inking is usually a little faster than penciling. What is your favorite medium? My favorite medium is plain old India ink and brushes. It’s the most cathartic part of the process where I can let my arm do the work and my mind gets to rest. How much does technology assist in your creative process? Technology helps me in a bunch of different ways, the most helpful of which is that it saves me time (one of the most important commodities to a comic artist). I mostly use the computer for preliminary drawing, penciling, printing/scanning and looking up building/ gun/car reference. It’s a valuable tool and helps me every day. What does your process look like? Do you have any favorite supplies... paper, pens? My two new tools I’m in love with are a Blue Pilot Color Eno mechanical pencil (the first easily erasable non photo blue pencil i’ve found) and FW Artists Ultimate Power Duo Presents Space Joe
Ink (It’s acrylic based so it dries a nice and thick matte black, makes the original art more appealing to potential buyers) My current process is as follows: I thumbnail the pages in photoshop, using just a regular round Pencil tool and a page template I created. All the photoshop drawing is done on a bamboo tablet. After these are approved I blow up the thumbnails and pencil them in photoshop. I’m not too finicky
at this point as I do a lot of drawing during the inking phase but I do make sure everything Is tight enough so that all the anatomy and perspective is worked out. I then print these pencils out in a light non-photo blue onto an 11x17 strathmore paper. Sometimes I do a bit more pencilling the the Pilot Color Eno that I mentioned but most of the time I just jump into inks.
Unknown Author Article
Unknown Artist
Artwork
Alien Attack Comic Artist Riley Rossimo
21
C
anadian artist Elaine Will has been drawing comics for as long as he can remember. “My mom likes to tell people that I could fingerprint the ninja turtles before I could talk. I always knew I would be an artist of some sort and after college I decided to put all my energy into comic art.” His first major series, Comeback, written by Ed Brisson, was released by Image Comics in November to wide acclaim. He is currently creating art for the X-Files, and is launching a new series, Zero, with Ales Kot this fall. Elaine was kind enough to share some insights into the life of a professional illustrator.
have a BA in Illustration. I don’t think it is necessary at all as long as you have a strong work ethic, direction and the will to learn and improve. It does help with understanding how to take a negative critique and interact with peers. I learned more from other students than I did from my teachers.
When did art become your full time job and how did it feel? I quit my day job a few months before Comeback got picked up as I was getAre you formally trained? Where ting a ton of commisdid you go to school? Is it nece- sions and had a few sary to follow that route, or do other small gigs lined you feel it’s possible to be suc- up. I figured without a cessful if you’re self-taught? I day job I would be more attended OCAD in Toronto and motivated to get full.
26
Christopher M. Jones Elaine M. Will
PUNCH
We Choose Our Friends Alone
27
28
PUNCH
We Choose Our Friends Alone
29
Cukoos Nest Press
ElaineMWillIllustration.com
@ElaineMWill
Jordan
RATZLAFF
Green Lantern Sinestro Corp War
Written by Geoff Johns and Dave Gibbons Drawn by Ivan Reis, Patrick Gleason, Ethan Van Sciver Hal Jordan, Kyle Rayner, John Stewart, Guy Gardner and the rest of the Green Lantern Corps fight a war with Sinestro, and his yellow lanterns, The Sinestro Corp.
Flashpoint
Last issue, Amazing Stories Graeme Williams illuminated us with his favorite Trade Paperback titles from Marvel. Now, here’s the scoop on Detective Comics
Batman: The Long Halloween
Written by Jeph Loeb Drawn by Tim Sale Set in the early days of his career, Batman sides with Commissioner Gordon, and Harvey Dent to take on the Mob, and the mysterious Holiday Killer. (This is my all time favourite book.)
32
Written by Geoff Johns Drawn by Andy Kubert The Flash stars in this tale of a world without Superman, where Batman is not who he seems, and Wonder Woman is in an all out war with Aquaman. Could this be the real DC universe? And why Is Barry Allen the only person to notice that things are not how they should be?
Batman: Hush
Written by Jeph Loeb Drawn by Jim Lee Who is Hush? Follow Batman as he encounters his entire rogues gallery and all of Gothams protectors in search of the answer. This is a great starting point for new readers of Batman, DC comics, or comics in general.
PUNCH
Deadman vol. 1
Identity Crisis
Superman: Birthright
52 vol. 1-4
Crisis on Infinite Earths
The Question Vol. 5: Riddles Written by
Written and drawn by Neal Adams Boston Brand is the high flying trapeze artist “Deadman” until he gets shot and killed mid act. Reborn as a ghost with the power to posses people’s bodies, can he find out who killed him?
Written by Mark Waid Drawn by Lienil Francis Yu We all know who Superman is; now learn how he came to be in this modern retelling of his origin.
Written by Marv Wolfman Drawn by George Perez This classic from 1985 changed the face of the DC universe forever. Heroes from infinite earths are called upon to save their planets from the Antimonitor and things have never been the same since. Volume 2
Written by Brad Meltzer Art by Rags Morales This is a “whodunit” for the Justice League. The death of Elastic Man’s wife calls upon all the JLA to rethink just how safe they are? Find out what secrets could tear the team apart. (I broke into DC with this story and never looked back.)
Written by Mark Waid, Grant Morrison, Greg Rucka, and Geoff Johns Drawn by various artists In a year without Batman, Superman, and Wonder Woman, follow several intertwining stories of some of DC’s lesser-known heroes. Includes The Question, then Black Adam Family, Elastic man, Animal Man, and more.
Dennis O’Neal Drawn by Denys Cowen The Question continues his quest to clean up the cesspool that is Hub City. Is he enough for the task? Will The Riddler stop him before he is finished? (Some of the best writing I’ve ever had the pleasure of reading)
33
&
Smoking Man: An Interview with William B. Davis
F
or almost a decade, my Sunday nights were ritual of television, as my friends and I would get together to end the week by turning into The Simpsons (as an appetizer), followed by The X-Files (the main course). I remember watching the credits at the start of each episode; when you read the name William B. Davis, you knew it was going to be an episode that featured the nefarious Cigarette Smoking Man. I sat down with Mr. Davis to discuss The X-Files and his recent memoir, villains, and acting. In your book [Where there’s Fire...The Musings of a Cigarette Smoking Man] you talk about ‘generational differences’ on the set of the X-Files. How did having a more professionally trained set of standards affect your experience with younger ‘Hollywood’ actors like David Duchovny and Gillian Anderson?
Were you surprised at any of the reaction, good or bad, to your memoir? The reaction to the memoir has been terrific --even winning a prestigious award. I can’t say I was surprised even by some who felt I had been too candid. They may be right. But one has to write what one feels. Did you truly see The Cigarette Man [CSM] as a villian? Or did you try to play him more as a guy with his own motivations? Don’t you think this usually makes villains stronger?
I don’t think an actor should ever play a villain as a villain. Unless it’s melodrama. After all, villains don’t think they are villains. They think they are doing what is best, or what just needs to be done. And that was how I approached CSM. I used to do convention talks where I tried to persuade the I don’t know if they were generational differenc- fans that CSM is the hero of the show and Mulder es or geographical differences but I was raised in the villain. British theatre traditions of civility, cordiality, and punctuality. For all their good qualities none of these three adjectives would apply well to David and Gillian.
34
PUNCH
Hahaha, I could go with that theory. On a simi- If you could act alongside any actor, living or lar note, The CSM wasn’t a ‘heavy’ in physical dead, from he last 50 years, who would it be, sense --- how did you imbibe him with qualities and why? that made him intense and intimidating? Strangely, it would be Ed Harris. Years ago I I had quite a bit of help, especially from the di- worked as a rehearsal actor for a film called Needrector of photography. He always placed and lit ful Things. The spark he brought to the interaction between us just in our little me in a menacing framerehearsal was so fresh and work. Christ Carter’s vision spontaneous. I would love of the character’s silence to see where that might go and menacing observation in some real work. also helped. After that it is a matter of what am I thinkWhat piece of work have ing about? you done that you’re Do you still tend to emproud of, aside from The X-Files, that fans brace what the CSM character has brought to should seek out? your life, or do you feel pigeon-holed someI am proud now of the work I am doing on the curtimes in that “I Am Not Spock” sort of way? rent show, Continuum. And there is my memoir. Generally, the experience has all been good. I Fans might like the audio version of the memoir have been brought by the show and my role in it to which I narrate. [Available at Audible.com] a lot of different places, from more science fiction roles to skeptical conferences. But I have not really been ‘typed’ and I get to play many other types Craig Silliphant of characters. Article and Interviewer Volume 2
35
H
ello everyone, Toy King back again with another write-up on the care and feeding of action figures. This chapter will cover how and where to find action figures out there in the wilds. Quite a lot of people have asked me just where I find the figures that I collect and my answer has long been “ all over “. Now, I’m sure a lot of you readers will roll your eyes and think that’s a cute response, but really..........it’s as generalized as that. Having been a collector for almost 30 years, there’s a few tricks and practises that I have that seem to work for me, and they really aren’t all that complicated. One thing before anything else: toy collecting can be a lot of work. In bygone days, I’d spend free
36
time covering the city I lived in, hitting various places looking for stuff. I’d cover a lot of ground in a day (using public transit, no less) and would visit anywhere from a half-dozen to a dozen stores.... on foot. I’d follow my intuitions and instincts and often discovered stuff in surprising places. That much effort might sound like a lot of tedium to some....... and yes, it can be very tedious. Go at a pace that is pleasant to you, either alone, or with people whose company you enjoy. Make an adventure of toy hunting and it can be a lot of fun. But where does one look? The obvious places start with the classic venues: Toy stores, collectible and comic book stores are good sources. Big retail chains like Walmart andToys R Us are usual stops. But there’s a problem with
them... almost EVERYONE checks these places. Frequently, people resort to all kinds of strategies like trying to get to stores right when they stock, to canvassing numerous stores in a given period of time, to even bribing stock people or managers to secure select items just for them.
Having been a collector for almost 30 years...
Here’s some strategies: Understand that, a merchandize distribution system can send products like toys to all kinds of retailers. Practise and observation has shown repeatedly that the above kinds of PUNCH
retailers are NOT the only ones getting action figure stock. Hardware stores like Home Hardware, Tru-Value and other chains can and have stocked toys in various outlets. Drug stores/pharmacies like London Drugs, Pharmasave can have toy sections. Hobby stores, or craft stores can stock toys, especially in smaller communities. Regional grocery chains like Real Canadian Super Store and SaveOn-Foods have oddly-timed seasonal toy stocks--odd in the sense that while they may have a boatload of stock at Christmas time, they also may get a sizeable amount of toys in the summer, or at other times of the year.
ups in small retail stores, when the asking prices for such figures were in the hundreds of dollars in the collector’s market. Learn to haggle--which is really just the art of making a deal. Here’s the trick to it: Let’s say you see something you want, but it’s $30, and you have $25 in your wallet. You don’t want to make an insulting offer, like offering $10....pull out a twenty and tuck it into your hand--do this away from the table. Hold out the twenty just enough so the dealer can see it. Be pleasant and personable, say “ Would you take $20 for this” in a clear, pleasant tone of voice. See what happens. If they go for it... bang, you just saved $10 and and find something else to buy at another table, or you’ll have enough for some lunch.
When you go to toy shows, here’s some tips...
Example: I used to find action figure lines that were not even supposed to be sold up in Canada ( Marvel Legends FaceOff series and others) being clearanced at Save-On-Food stores in Central Rural BC. Small “mom & pop” toy stores can also have sought-after action figures, and they may not always be savvy to secondary market/ebay pricing hikes. I’ve personally found, and haveheard of finds of rare figures at minimal retail mark-
Volume 2
(Super-secret tip: if the dealer is just a little bit hesitant, gently... subtly “sway” the issue....gently twitch your hand holding the money-just once or twice. It’s a clever psychological gamble that plays subliminally on the other guy, and entices them into accepting. One of the little known things
about established toy shows is that bigger dealers tend to be closer to the entrance. They tend to have more stock, and thus more tables. That means they are paying more to be there and are LESS likely to deal. The tables furthest away from the entrance can be better for haggling, because they see more customers with less dollars in their pockets by then. Alright, there’s MORE to this than we can fit in this issue so look for PART 2 of this article in PUNCH #5 in a few months. See you next time!
Ken Davis
Article and artwork
37
Collette TURNER
Leah
KEELER
Bludgeon
Previous Leadership Experience: Took command of the Decepticons in Victory, and, get this, builds a Transformers–scale transforming fortress/ Death Star. Let’s repeat that: a Transformers– scale transforming fortress/Death Star! Deszaras doesn’t mess around. When he says he wants to destroy earth, he gets down to business. He also has chest – minions similar to Soundwave, and fights with a giant scimitar, a spiked flail, and a cannon that destroys living metal. Why He Should be in the Movies: Given his penchant for massive building projects, and no–nonsense weaponry, there are a lot of story and combat options that would make him unique. Also, he transforms into a winged lizard kaiju, (think Godzilla with wings) which would add another visual element that hasn’t been seen in the current live action movies. He’s not at the tactical level of Bludgeon or Overlord, but he isn’t restrained by any concept of honor, or equality.
Deszaras
Previous Leadership Experience: Took command of the Decepticons near the end of the original Marvel Comics run, and has been a perennial favorite of writer Simon Furman ever since. Bludgeon has often commanded small teams of Decepticons with an affinity for Cybertronian martial arts and magical arts as well. These factors alone would separate him from many of the other Decepticon leaders and would make him an interesting character to explore.
These factors alone would seperate him from many of the other Decepticon leaders...
40
Why He Should be in the Movies: His mastery of “Metalikato” would make him visually interesting to film, and his action sequences stand out from what has already been done in the previous movies. Who doesn’t love a robot samurai and all it entails? His tampering with the mystical side of Cybertron would also provide a different story angle, and add another visual element that would make him stand out from the rest of the Decepticons. PUNCH
Now that the first Transformers live–action trilogy is wrapped up and work has begun on the second trilogy, it is the perfect time to speculate on who should take up the mantle of Decepticon leader given the fact that Megatron, Starscream, Shockwave, Soundwave and even Scorponok are all on–screen dead. So here are four Decepticon leaders who should get their chance to shine, but for various reasons will remain sidelined.
Overlord
Previous Leadership Experience: Led the Decepticons in Super–God Masterforce. Overlord demonstrated a tactical mind in his time as leader, and something bordering on actual care for his troops and respect for his enemies. This would make him a refreshing change from the megalomaniacal tendencies of Megatron. Lately though, he’s been a raging psychopath with a grudge against Megatron, and almost enough mechanical muscle to put Megatron in his place. Overlord also stabbed Ultra Magnus through the chest, killing him instantly.
Thunderwing
Previous Leadership Experience: Led a small band of Decepticons during The Matrix Quest portion of the Marvel Comics run. He was also evil enough to corrupt the Creation Matrix, and later used it to challenge Unicron … for a couple of panels. He later became a mindless monstrosity in Stormbringer after experimenting on himself in the hopes of making an outer shell to survive the deteriorating conditions on Cybertron.
Why He Should be in the Movies: Thunderwing’s descent into madness and corruption of the Creation Matrix would make him Why He Should be in the Mova compelling villain to watch as ies: His character design is awehe slides from scientist to monsome. His robot mode is made up ster as he experiments on himof an SR–71 style jet and a tank, self and others. He would also be which is something unique to the a better subject for the Pretender current movies and suitably awetechnology that was used in Resome for Sir Bay. Just think of all the toys that could be sold if each half of him venge of the Fallen for Alice (the blonde Terminais sold separately! Overlord demonstrates sheer, tor thing). Watching a villain slide into obsession overwhelming brute force, and the level of car- is always fun, and the power that Thunderwing nage that Overlord is capable of lends himself to comes to possess would ensure a suitable level of Sir Bay’s carnage–based style of filmmaking. The danger for the Autobots to overcome. fact that he has six missile tubes in his torso would Rod Parker lend itself to a live–action Itano Circus, (made faArticle mous in Macross) which would be awesome.
His robot mode is made up of an SR-71 style jet and tank...
Jasmine Redford
Artwork
Volume 2
41
Jeremy GIBSON
Janessa SASUKE
Bobby LEE
Lindsay SANDER PUNCH
Volume 2
Niaomi WIWCHAR
Janessa McKENZIE
Melissa FRIESEN
Kacey THURSTON