Cyberspace Comics market report, reviews and more

July 6, 2012

Guide to Marvel Comics Presents #69

Filed under: Guide to Marvel Comics Presents — Doorman @ 6:41 am

Marvel Comics Presents launched in 1988 as an ad-free anthology showcasing four eight-page features, stuffed inside a wrap-around cover. This guide will tell you everything you wanted to know about the series – and more!


Marvel Comics Presents #69
Cover Date: 1991 | Cover Price: $1.25 | Cover Artist: Sandy Plunkett


Wolverine in “Acts of Vengeance” part 6
written by Howard Mackie
art by Mark Texeira

Brass reveals his hatred for the Mandarin due to his involvement in the death of his girlfriend, Theresa. Wolverine remembers a run-in that he had with the Mandarin recently and they decide that the villain is probably the connection. After their brief respite, Wolverine, Brass, and Ghost Rider continue to battle Deathwatch‘s men. In the last page, Ghost Rider and Brass have taken off for an unknown destination.

Shanna in “The Bush of Ghosts” part 2
written by Gerard Jones
art by Paul Gulacy

Shanna tracks down the animal killers … or, at least, the bottom rung of the ladder. At the top of that ladder? Sir Guy Cross-Wallace. The search for his trail has begun. Also, in this issue, we follow Dubose Wilson (who seems to be in on the black market for diamonds) and Heller (a reporter attempting to expose the diamond thefts).

Daredevil in “Redemption Song” part 1
written by Sandy Plunkett
art by Sandy Plunkett with Dwayne Turner

There’s a heatwave in New York this July and a pirate radio station has hit the airwaves. It’s all the rage with the locals. The DJ, Travis T. Hipp, warns his listeners of a wild pack of dogs roaming the streets. Daredevil attempts to save a man from the dogs and even though he manages to beat them away, he’s too late. Before the man gives up the ghost, though, he beseeches Daredevil to seek out a scientist named Ellington and warn him that the dogs will be after him. Daredevil manages to find Ellington’s lab and his private journals. The writings reveal that Ellington was one of four scientists hired by Octagon to develop intelligence-boosting drugs. They used stray dogs as test subjects. The animals developed higher intelligence, escape and have been systematically hunting and killing the four scientists. After Daredevil has learned all of this, Ellington returns to the lab and confronts the vigilante for trespassing.

Silver Surfer in “A Howling in the Void
written by Len Wein
art by Hugh Hayes

The tranquility of deep space is interrupted by a heartwrenching moan that lures the Silver Surfer to a derelict spaceship. The ship has clearly been ravaged and left to the abuses of drifting in space. Upon closer inspection, the Surfer finds the dead bodies of the crew. Unexpectedly, the corpses rise and attack the Silver Surfer. Using the power cosmic, he defeats them all – but, they rise again. This cycle continues until the Surfer is herded into the ship’s control room. The ship reveals itself to be a sentient being – one who has suffered much damage. It’s wounds are irreparable and it siphons the Surfer’s power cosmic to end its long-suffering agony through self-termination.

The Wolverine/Ghost Rider tale continues to be quite uninteresting and Shanna’s feature hasn’t quite hit its stride yet, either. The Daredevil story caught my attention and the one-and-done Silver Surfer space horror was touching, poignant and mournful.

On Ebay: Marvel Comics Presents | Wolverine | Daredevil | Shanna | Silver Surfer
On AtomicAvenue: Marvel Comics Presents | Wolverine | Daredevil | Shanna | Silver Surfer

July 5, 2012

Famous Fanmail #118 Charles Novinskie

Filed under: Famous Fanmail — Doorman @ 6:52 am

You may not be surprised to learn that most people in the comic business grew up reading comic books. However, you might be interested in knowing what they were reading. Here’s a look at “Famous Fanmail”!

Charles S. Novinskie served as Topps Comics’ sales and promotions manager. He’s written articles for Comics Interview and Star Wars Galaxy Magazine. Novinskie was also the editor on Overstreet’s Fan magazine and Topps’ Duckman series. He got a letter printed in Fantastic Four #350 (cover date – March 1991), wherein he shares his thoughts on the first appearance of the “new Fantastic Four” (Spider-Man, Wolverine, Ghost Rider & Hulk).

Fantastic Four letters page with Charles S. Novinskie

On Ebay: Fantastic Four | Novinskie
On AtomicAvenue: Fantastic Four

July 4, 2012

Cyberspace Comics Market Report #23 July 2012

Filed under: Cyberspace Comics Market Report — Doorman @ 12:20 pm

Here’s a look back at the previous month in online comic sales.

Number of listings in eBay’s “comics” section: 1,596,382 (-4.20% from last month; +2.42% from last year)
Number of those that are Cyberspace Comics listings: 8,164 (+1.74%; +24.09%)
My “market share” of comic listings on eBay: 0.51141% (+6.20%; +21.15%)

Number of eBay comic listings that are auctions: 98,309 (-37.02%; +18.25%)
Percentage of eBay comic listings up for auction: 6.16% (-34.28%; +11.30%)

My current eBay feedback (unique): 16,613
My current eBay feedback (total): 32,445
My positive eBay feedback score: 100%

Position Dollar Sales # of Current Listings
First Marvel Comics TPBs (1,386 listings)
Second Wholesale (↑) Marvel Comics (1,220 listings)
Third TPBs Bad Girls (680 listings)
Fourth Marvel (Bronze Age) (↓) Image Comics (615 listings)
Fifth Underground (↑) Underground (581 listings)

 

eBay hasn’t run any listing promotions this week so the numbers have normalized.

 
Number of listings on Atomic Avenue: 1,491,901 (-1.33%; +5.48%)
Number of those that are in the Cyberspace Comics Store on Atomic Avenue: 46,749 (+0.38%; +20.90%)
My “market share” of comic listings on AtomicAvenue: 3.1335% (+1.74%; +14.62%)
My estimated “market share” of AtomicAvenue orders: 4.21% (-34.01%; -47.90%)

 
Number of members on ComicCollectorLive: 86,681 (+0.61%)

July 3, 2012

Comic Book Cover Swipes Exposed #118 Guardians of the Galaxy

Filed under: Swiped: Comic Book Cover Swipes Exposed! — Doorman @ 11:41 am

After looking at hundreds of comic book covers, it becomes quickly apparent that not every cover is 100% original. Whether done intentionally or even underhandedly, there’s something about uncovering these “swipes” that adds a new element of fun to reading and collecting comics.

Starhawk was the first non-founding member to join the Guardians of the Galaxy. He was also the first to be expelled from the team. And, when he returned to the book in #22, it was evident that some things had changed. The cover to this returning issue was intended to stir up memories of his first cover appearance.

Defenders #28
Defenders #28
October 1975
Gil Kane
Guardians of the Galaxy #22
Guardians of the Galaxy #22
March 1992
Jim Valentino

On Ebay: Guardians of the Galaxy
On AtomicAvenue: Guardians of the Galaxy

July 2, 2012

Guide to Marvel Two-In-One #16 the Thing & Ka-Zar

Filed under: Guide to Marvel Two-In-One — Doorman @ 12:19 pm

Marvel Two-In-One launched in 1974, teaming the Thing with a different hero each month. This guide will tell you everything you wanted to know about the series – and more!

Marvel Two-In-One #16Publisher: Marvel Comics
Cover Date: June 1976
Cover Price: 25¢
Writer: Bill Mantlo
Artist: Ron Wilson

WHO stars in this issue?

the Thing – Benjamin J. Grimm was bombarded by cosmic rays in a space exploration flight, alongside three friends. The cosmic rays gave each of them different powers, and they formed the Fantastic Four. Ben underwent the most physical change of the foursome: his skin mutated into orange rock and, as a result, he gained super-strength.

Ka-Zar – Kevin Plunder is a “jungle lord” (essentially, Marvel’s version of Tarzan) that makes his home in the Savage Land. It is a prehistoric land that exists beneath the icy crust of Antarctica – filled with a hot, jungle climate and dinosaurs. He is often accompanied by Zabu, a sabretooth tiger.

WHAT happens?

Reed Richards discovers a chain of active volcanoes that, if activated at once, could destroy the Earth. The chain stretches from the North Pole to the South Pole so he sends the Thing to Antarctica to investigate. Nick Fury picks him up in a S.H.I.E.L.D. hyper-jet and, once over Antarctica, the Thing parachutes down into the entrance of the Savage Land.



When he lands, the Thing comes face to face with an Allosaurus and is quickly joined by Ka-Zar and Zabu. After the trio ends the threat of the hungry carnivore, they discover that they’re both concerned about the same volcanic activity. The Thing follows Ka-Zar to the volcano in question where they find a squadron of meddling humans. Their leader, V, intends to harness the volcanic power in order to emerge as a super-being named Volcanus. But, in their ensuing battle, he is accidentally knocked into bubbling lava before he can complete the process.

WHERE does the story take place?

The dangerous volcanoes are located within the Savage Land – a prehistoric jungle located beneath the icy crust of Antarctica.



WHEN does the villain next appear?

I know that death is rarely permanent in comics but, V/Volcanus has not appeared since his presumed death in this issue

WHY is Ka-Zar the guest-lead?

I don’t see much of a “behind-the-scenes” reason for the use of Ka-Zar here. While the jungle lord did have his own ongoing series at this time, it was not written by Bill Mantlo (the writer of this issue). Nor does this story continue into the Ka-Zar series (in fact, the volcano story continues into next issue). Although, the Ka-Zar series was canceled only six months after this issue debuted, so it’s possible Marvel was hoping for a sales boost by giving him some more exposure in this issue.



HOW was it?

While it was fun to see the Thing take on a dinosaur there wasn’t much in the way of perceived danger. I wasn’t really concerned that a dinosaur would be able to do much damage to the Thing’s rocky hide. Nor was I very worried about this new would-be super-villain or his crew of bumbling henchmen. The only true danger is the volcanic activity – which isn’t even resolved in this issue (that story is continues into next issue). Ka-Zar’s presence in this story could be deemed totally unnecessary and it seems like the Thing could have gotten out of every “jam” in this story without his help. Additionally, we’re treated to one of the most unbelievable scenes in the Thing’s history, as the 500lb. rock monster swings from the jungle vines like Tarzan.



Note: With this issue, the title starts it’s monthly pubication schedule (previously, it had been bi-monthly). The events of this issue take place after Fantastic Four #166. There is no lettercol in this issue. It should also be noted that this issue marks the first meeting between Ka-Zar and the Thing.

On Ebay: Marvel Two-In-One | the Thing | Ka-Zar
On AtomicAvenue: Marvel Two-In-One | Ka-Zar

June 29, 2012

Guide to Marvel Comics Presents #68

Filed under: Guide to Marvel Comics Presents — Doorman @ 8:16 am

Marvel Comics Presents launched in 1988 as an ad-free anthology showcasing four eight-page features, stuffed inside a wrap-around cover. This guide will tell you everything you wanted to know about the series – and more!


Marvel Comics Presents #68
Cover Date: 1991 | Cover Price: $1.25 | Cover Artist: Paul Gulacy


Wolverine in “Acts of Vengeance” part 5
written by Howard Mackie
art by Mark Texeira

Wolverine, Ghost Rider and Brass take on Deathwatch‘s goons in the hopes of rescuing Brigitte (Brass’s sister) and Jack (Ghost Rider’s friend).

Shanna in “The Bush of Ghosts” part 1
written by Gerard Jones
art by Paul Gulacy

In London, Shanna discovers that some hippos and rhinos have been killed solely for their ivory – and, she has a feeling that she knows who did it.

Fantastic Four in “Dark Dimensions” conclusion
written by Robert Denatale
art by Tom Morgan

All the original members of the Fantastic Four are reunited in this issue. Using their powers together, they’re able to free the Exile from the web of energy he was trapped within.

Lockjaw in “Sparky the Wonder Dog
written by Scott Lobdell
art by Jose Delbo

Lockjaw helps a local policeman rescue some homeless people from a burning building.

The Wolverine/Ghost Rider feature seemed like a waste of eight pages … and the Lockjaw story fell flat, too. The Fantastic Four concluded this issue but it was quite anti-climactic. Although, it should be noted that reuniting the original team was kind of a special event since, at this point, the Fantastic Four series was devoid of Mr. Fantastic and the Invisible Woman (they had temporarily retired). Finally, it’s nice to see Shanna get a little limelight. With art by Paul Gulacy, it’s sure to look good so I’m just hoping that Jones has a good story cooked up.

On Ebay: Marvel Comics Presents | Wolverine | Fantastic Four | Shanna | Inhumans
On AtomicAvenue: Marvel Comics Presents | Wolverine | Fantastic Four | Shanna | Inhumans

June 28, 2012

Famous Fanmail #117 Charles Novinskie

Filed under: Famous Fanmail — Doorman @ 6:19 am

You may not be surprised to learn that most people in the comic business grew up reading comic books. However, you might be interested in knowing what they were reading. Here’s a look at “Famous Fanmail”!

Charles S. Novinskie served as Topps Comics’ sales and promotions manager. He’s written articles for Comics Interview and Star Wars Galaxy Magazine. Novinskie was also the editor on Overstreet’s Fan magazine and Topps’ Duckman series. He got a letter printed in Fantastic Four #339 (cover date – April 1990), inquiring about the Super Hero Registration Act (a plot point that Mark Millar reused in Marvel’s Civil War).

Fantastic Four letters page with Charles S. Novinskie

On Ebay: Fantastic Four | Novinskie
On AtomicAvenue: Fantastic Four

June 27, 2012

Connecting Covers #27 Boogeyman

Filed under: Connecting Covers — Doorman @ 7:25 am

A fun aspect of comic books is that sometimes their covers combine to make an even larger image. Here’s a look at some connecting covers.

Sergio Aragones‘ art style is instantly recognizable – usually by his character designs and incredibly detailed visuals. All four covers for his Boogeyman series combine into one image.

Boogeyman #1 2 3 4

On Ebay: Sergio Aragones
On AtomicAvenue: Aragones

June 26, 2012

Comic Book Cover Swipes Exposed #117 Batman

Filed under: Swiped: Comic Book Cover Swipes Exposed! — Doorman @ 6:43 am

After looking at hundreds of comic book covers, it becomes quickly apparent that not every cover is 100% original. Whether done intentionally or even underhandedly, there’s something about uncovering these “swipes” that adds a new element of fun to reading and collecting comics.

Batman #497 is a modern age book that’s become quite iconic – it’s the crux of the Knightfall storyline wherein Bane breaks Batman‘s back.

Batman #497
Batman #497
August 1993
Kelley Jones
Detective Comics #740
Detective Comics #740
January 2000
John Cassaday

On Ebay: Batman
On AtomicAvenue: Batman

June 25, 2012

Guide to Marvel Two-In-One #15 the Thing & Morbius

Filed under: Guide to Marvel Two-In-One — Doorman @ 12:49 pm

Marvel Two-In-One launched in 1974, teaming the Thing with a different hero each month. This guide will tell you everything you wanted to know about the series – and more!

Marvel Two-In-One #15Publisher: Marvel Comics
Cover Date: May 1976
Cover Price: 25¢
Writer: Bill Mantlo
Artist: Arv Jones

WHO stars in this issue?

the Thing – Benjamin J. Grimm was bombarded by cosmic rays in a space exploration flight, alongside three friends. The cosmic rays gave each of them different powers, and they formed the Fantastic Four. Ben underwent the most physical change of the foursome: his skin mutated into orange rock and, as a result, he gained super-strength.

Morbius – Doctor Michael Morbius was a Nobel Prize-winning biochemist who suffered from a rare blood disease. He devised and experimental treatment to cure the ailment and tested it on himself. The treatment went wrong and Morbius now needs to feast on blood in order to survive. He also developed super powers from his experiment including flight, speed, and super-strength.

WHAT happens?

Morbius breaks into Alicia Masters‘ apartment, intending to make her his next meal but, his attack is quickly stopped by a visit from her boyfriend, the Thing. As they battle in her apartment, in the alleyway below, the Living Eraser makes his return to Earth. He intends to create havoc here in order to convince the military from his home, Dimension Z, that control should be taken from their Supremor and given to him.

As Morbius is driven out of Alicia’s apartment, he flies through the alley below and spies the Living Eraser – his next target! The Thing sees the attack and suspects that Morbius is just attempting to feast on another unfortunate human – not suspecting that Morbius’ victim is a malevolent invader from Dimension Z. And, as the Thing and Morbius do battle for a second time, the Living Eraser turns his erasers on both of them – transporting them to a prison cell in Dimension Z.



The Thing and Morbius decide to set aside their differences and work together to get back to Earth and stop the Living Eraser’s rampage. They break free from the cell, fight through the Eraser’s forces, locate some erasing devices and use them to return to Earth. Once there, they make quick work of the Living Eraser. But, rather than bask in is victory, Morbius turns the erasers on himself in a bid to save the Earth from being inhabited by the monster he considers himself to be.

WHERE does the story take place?

That battle against the Living Eraser takes place in Midtown Manhattan – but in between, the Thing and Morbius are dispatched to Dimension Z.

WHEN does the villain next appear?

In Sensational She-Hulk #35, it’s revealed that the first Living Eraser was executed! That very same issue introduces a new Living Eraser.



WHY is Morbius the guest-lead?

I fight it rather interesting that Morbius (originally a Spider-Man villain) later went on to feature in his own solo series. He took over Fear with issue #20 (cover date: February 1974) and was featured there until the series ended with issue #31 (cover date: December 1975). The last three of those issues were written by Bill Mantlo – who wrote this very issue! So, it seems that Mantlo enjoyed writing the character (he also used the character in Marvel Premiere #28 [cover date: February 1976]). If you’re curious to find out what happened next to Morbius, check out Spectacular Spider-Man #7-8.

HOW was it?

To be honest, there was far too much coincidence in this book for me to really enjoy it. Morbius attacking the Thing’s girlfriend? OK. I can accept that – but once the Living Eraser just happens to transport himself into that very same location … at the very same time – well, now you’ve lost me. There was also quite a blooper that I just couldn’t help but notice. On page 26, the Thing turns the eraser on the Living Eraser – erasing his right arm. The arm is still missing on page 27 but somehow, it magically reappears on pages 28 & 29. Similarly, the Eraser erases the Thing’s left leg on page 26. It’s missing on page 27 but it magically reappears on pages 28 & 29. On the plus side, it’s nice to see the Thing knock Morbius around and then form a tentative alliance only because they absolutely need to rely on each other to free themselves from Dimension Z.



Note: This issue’s letters column features commentary on Marvel Two-In-One #13 and includes letters written by Paul Dini and Ralph Macchio. Additionally, this comic includes Marvel Value Stamp [Series B] #79 (part of the Silver Surfer puzzle).

On Ebay: Marvel Two-In-One | the Thing | Morbius
On AtomicAvenue: Marvel Two-In-One | Morbius

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