Thinking Critical Comic Book Podcast

Comic book artist Ron Garney joins Wes to talk about working with Keanu Reeves, BRZRKR success, moving on from Marvel Comics and the evolution of comic book art and industry. Comic book artist Ron Garney has been delivering pulse pounding images for 35 years. Many know him from his time on Spider-Man, Daredevil, Captain America, X-Men and other legendary Marvel Comics characters. But it's a recent indie comic titles attached to a Hollywood juggernaut that's turned into his most successful project. Keanu Reeve's passion project BRZRK from BOOM! Studios sold over 615k issues of its debut. After it already crowdfunded over $1.5M on Kickstarter.  Big part of that success is the poetically violent imagery from comic book artist Ron Garney. Not that anyone should be surprised. Ron Garney continues pushing the boundaries of action story, now with over 3 decades of storytelling under his belt. (04:57) The industry veteran also talks about his Captain America run with Mark Waid and why it was cut short. Ron also dives into what he considers the best comic book art of his career. (17:54) Ron and Wes also discuss the evolution of comic books art over the years and the physical toll 35 years drawing some of the most iconic comic characters in history have taken on his body. (28:23) Finally, Ron talks about the current transition of the comic book industry and his plans moving forward. (42:40)   Support Thinking Critical at Ko-fi. Monthly subscriptions receive bonus content and early access to some channel content. Ko-fi.com/thinkingcritical Thank you for supporting the channel!

Drew and Kiel from Comics Elite comic shop preview the best and worst releases of the new comic book week. DC and Marvel Comics are debuting several new titles during new comic week December 15th including Batgirls and Wastelanders: Wolverine. Drew and Kiel lay out this weeks new releases you shouldn't expect much from or can outright skip. (00:00) Drew and Kiel then name his Top 10 must read new comics for the week. (49:05) Must listen for readers looking for the best bang for their new comic buck. Marvel Comics feature new series Wastelanders: Wolverine and new issues of Amazing Spider-Man,Hulk, X-Force and Strange Academy. DC Comics feature new Batgirls and new issues of Batman: The Imposter, Robin & Batman, Wonder Woman and Teen Titans Academy. Image Comics feature new issues of King Spawn and Primordial. Other indie comics of note include; Mazebook, Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles, Transformers, BRZRKR and X-O Manowar.   Comics Elite Info YT: youtube.com/channel/UCqomzHuP6X3QLXElMdzm1JA Website: comicselitecomics.com/ Facebook: facebook.com/comicselite/   Support Thinking Critical at Ko-fi. Monthly subscriptions receive bonus content and early access to some channel content. Ko-fi.com/thinkingcritical Thank you for supporting the channel!

Wes is joined by award-winning comic book editor Joe Corallo and comic super-fan Eric Breen to review The Doom Patrol's first story after becoming a self-titles comic series. Previously published in My Greatest Adventures, The Doom Patrol are one of the oddest superhero teams in history. Writer Arnold Drake and artist Bruno Premiani do a fantastic capturing the spirit of the silver-age oddities. In this story many things are revealed, including Chief's name and origin story.    Support Thinking Critical at Ko-fi. Monthly subscriptions receive bonus content and early access to some channel content. Ko-fi.com/thinkingcritical Thank you for supporting the channel!

Wes is joined by award-winning comic book editor Joe Corallo and comic super-fan Eric Breen to review David Michelinie and Bob Layton's Iron Man Vs Hulk story arc. David Michelinie's Iron Man comic book run is criminal underrated. One story that stands out is his 3-issue Iron Man Vs Hulk story. Brought to life by Bob Layton's impeccable line art. Iron man vs Hulk is a pulse pounding thrill-ride of a comic book.    Support Thinking Critical at Ko-fi. Monthly subscriptions receive bonus content and early access to some channel content. Ko-fi.com/thinkingcritical Thank you for supporting the channel!

Comic book collectibles expert and critic Gem Mint Collectibles joins Wes and the Comics Aficionados. The Comics Aficionados break down all the latest comic book industry news and rumors. X-Men Group Editor Jordan White and Marvel Comics received plenty of criticism following their X-Men: Green story. Jordan White attempted to calm the outrage but ended up making things far worse. Calling into question whether White even knows what makes heroes and villains anymore. (00:21:35) X-Men fans knew change was coming following Jonathan Hickman's exit from the franchise early next year. Marvel Comics announced a soft reboot following X Lives/Deaths of Wolverine, Destiny of X. (00:42:00) DC Comics announced their third crossover event including Batman this week, Shadow War. Batman is the flagship character of DC Comics but this is getting ridiculous. (01:28:00) DC Comics put a stop to exclusive creator contracts following the pandemic shutdown. This practice blew up in their faces when Batman writer James Tynion decided to leave with little notice. This week DC signed controversial writer Tom Taylor to a new exclusive. (01:45:55) Chip Zdarsky's Daredevil run has been criminally under-read the past several years. It was surprising Marvel Comics gave him his own crossover event, Devil's Reign. Devil's Reign #1 had great action and art but didn't have the signature moment to kick off such an expansive crossover event. (02:01:00) DC Comics EIC Marie Javins is explaining her plans for Wonder Woman moving forward. It appears DC Comics are going to ignore 80 years of history and use one-third of DC's Trinity to push social commentary. (02:20:35)    Support Thinking Critical at Ko-fi. Monthly subscriptions receive bonus content and early access to some channel content. Ko-fi.com/thinkingcritical Thank you for supporting the channel!

Batman Critic Josh McDonald and X-Men Historian Dok join Wes to talk about all the latest developments and comics in Batman and X-Men. First Josh joins Wes to review Batman #118, which features new writer Joshua Williamson. Williamson does a good job transitioning to a new arc with fantastic art from Jorge Molina. Josh and Wes also review the latest issues of Batman '89 and Arkham City before talking about speculation that Joker is appearing in Matt Reeves The Batman film. (00:00:00) Wes talks about DC's announcement of a third Batman crossover event in 6 months. (00:28:21) Dok and Wes talk about the details of Immortal X-Men and Marauders reboot from Destiny of X. They also review the Hellions finale. What had been the very best ongoing X-Men series for some time (00:39:22) Wes and Dok then review the latest issue of Jonathan Hickman's Inferno. Inferno #3 is filled with exciting revelations that should have happened during Hickman's X-Men run. (01:02:11) Finally, they talk about Marvel's announcement of an upcoming X-Men vs Avengers sequel. (01:21:33)   Support Thinking Critical at Ko-fi. Monthly subscriptions receive bonus content and early access to some channel content. Ko-fi.com/thinkingcritical Thank you for supporting the channel!

Wes is back with another episode of the The Comic Wrap. Wes runs down the biggest comic book and pop culture news and best conversations of the week. X-Men group editor Jordan White answered X-Men: Green critics this week. Turns out he has no clue what the real criticism is or what made the story repugnant. (00:00:00) Streaming services like Netflix and HBO Max are frequently turning to Hollywood names to produce content based on beloved franchises. Comic book editor and writer Aaron Sparrow and Wes discuss why this is resulting in low quality adaptations. And how Seth Rogan and Kevin Smith do themselves no favors lashing out at fans. (00:23:01) DC Comics announced their first exclusive writer in over a year this week, Tom Taylor. Taylor has begun incorporating his trademark writing tropes that ruined his career at Marvel Comics. (00:45:12) For the first time in moths Manga didn't occupy the best selling adult graphic novel in November. Unfortunately, DC and Marvel still can't penetrate the Top 20. Falling behind Manga and webtoons. (01:03:36) There are more troubling signs at IDW Publishing. They recently letting go of EIC John Barber after rumors of major licenses leaving the company. (01:16:16) Marvel Comics released details of this weeks Devil's Reign event in anticipation of its release. Turns out, Marvel are rehashing their illegal superhero story…again. (01:29:24) Wes reviews the first issue of Devil's Reign from Chip Zdarsky and Marco Checchetto. The comic hits all the right notes on action but lacks in motive and plot. (01:42:56) Dok and Wes review two of the worst comics of last week; Wonder Woman Historia: The Amazons and Phoenix Song: Echo #2. (02:05:10) Finally, Skip and Aaron Sparrow join Wes to talk about Hawkeye episode 4 from Disney+. (02:32:05)   Support Thinking Critical at Ko-fi. Monthly subscriptions receive bonus content and early access to some channel content. Ko-fi.com/thinkingcritical Thank you for supporting the channel!

Gevian Dargan, former assistant-editor at Milestone Comics, joins Wes for “It's Complicated” to discuss hot-button issues from todays culture. Today Gevian and Wes discuss how freedom of speech is under fire, not from government, but major technology companies and media. When the founding fathers wrote the Bill of Rights in the US it was primarily aimed to protect people from government. Little did they know the greatest threat to free speech would be companies that control access to who can and cannot be heard. This was a point of emphasis by new Twitter CEO Parag Agrawal in 2018. Controlling narratives and access to information seems to be a point of emphasis from Twitter, Facebook and YouTube. Tools a majority off US citizens use to communicate and find information today.    Gevian Daragan Twitter: @GevianDargan

Drew and Kiel from Comics Elite comic shop preview the best and worst releases of the new comic book week. DC and Marvel Comics are debuting several new titles during new comic week December 8th including Devils Reign, One Star Squadron, World of Krypton, Captain America/Iron Man and Star Wars: Crimson Reign. Drew and Kiel lay out this weeks new releases you shouldn't expect much from or can outright skip. (00:00) Shawn and Drew then name his Top 10 must read new comics for the week. (50:11) Must listen for readers looking for the best bang for their new comic buck. Marvel Comics feature new titles Devils Reign, Captain America/Iron Man and Star Wars: Crimson Reign. Marvel also release new issues of Amazing Spider-Man, Amazing Fantasy, Hellions, Inferno and Star Wars. DC Comics feature new titles One Star Squadron and World of Krypton. DC also release new issues of Batman, Dark Knights of Steel, Superman: Son of Kal El and Green Lantern. Image Comics feature new series Lady Mechinika: The Monster of The Ministry of Hell as well as new issues of Crossover and The Silver Coin. Other indie comics of note include; Red Sonja, Vampiverse, G.I. Joe, Crimson Cage and Mighty Morphin.    Comics Elite Info YT: youtube.com/channel/UCqomzHuP6X3QLXElMdzm1JA Website: comicselitecomics.com/ Facebook: facebook.com/comicselite/   Support Thinking Critical at Ko-fi. Monthly subscriptions receive bonus content and early access to some channel content. Ko-fi.com/thinkingcritical Thank you for supporting the channel!

Wes is joined by Comics Aficionados: Comic book critic Gabriel Hernandez from Weird Science DC, Drew from Comics Elite, comic book YouTuber and retailer Uel Carter from Fantastic Comics, Batman and pop culture critic Josh McDonald and co-host Dok. The Comics Aficionados break down all the latest comic book industry news and rumors. Comic books have long been categorized by ages by collectors. Recently Wes from Thinking Critical declared we're in the Broken Age of comic books. The Comics Aficionados discuss what age of comics we're in and when did it start. (00:11:40) Marvel Comics charged $10 for The Avengers #750 comic this week. What readers got was a disjointed mess, light on storytelling cloaked in fan service. (00:47:00) This week the Comics Aficionados debate who would a battle between Dr. Fate and Dr. Strange? (01:19:26) IDW Media has been in financial disrepair for a few years now. Recently their publishing lines revenue was turning around but now it appears they're losing Star Wars, Marvel and the Hasbro license in a matter of months. (01:30:15) DC Comics used their 5th release week to promote a plethora of upcoming stories including: Shadows of the Bat, Shadow War, Poison Ivy Return, Ghost Makers new sidekick and more. (01:49:20) Finally, the Comics Aficionados discuss the recent turnout for San Diego Comic Con 2021. Most of the major studios skipped the convention leading to a sparsely attended SDCC with a renewed emphasis on comic books. (02:04:48)   Born of Blood Kickstarter Campaign Link: http://kck.st/3ln4KjS   Support Thinking Critical at Ko-fi. Monthly subscriptions receive bonus content and early access to some channel content. Ko-fi.com/thinkingcritical Thank you for supporting the channel!

Batman Critic Josh McDonald and X-Men Historian Dok join Wes to talk about all the latest developments and comics in Batman and X-Men. First Wes talks about the over saturation of Batman and how releasing $50 worth of Batman comics is unhealthy for the character and fans. (00:00:00) Josh joins es to review this weeks Batman Annual comics and the finale of Batman: The Detective. Batman: Fear State Omega and Detective Comics Annual left much to be desired. While Batman: The Detective #6, Robin Annual and Nightwing Annual all delivered. (00:13:28) Wes discusses a recent article highlighting the experience and comic book influences of Marvel Comics X-Men editorial staff. (00:44:38) Finally, Dok joins Wes to break down the new Destiny of X promotional art. As well as review another miserable issue of X-Men: The Trial of Magneto (01:06:26)   Support Thinking Critical at Ko-fi. Monthly subscriptions receive bonus content and early access to some channel content. Ko-fi.com/thinkingcritical Thank you for supporting the channel!

Wes is back with another episode of the The Comic Wrap. Wes runs down the biggest comic book and pop culture news and best conversations of the week. Comic book publishers, mostly notably Marvel Comics, began casting comic writers based on traits similar to their characters in the past few years. This was mostly in reaction to the perception that they only create comics for “old straight white men”. One of the unfortunate side effects is a generation of talent used for headlines and discarded when they don't sell comic books. (00:00:00) Dok joins Wes to discuss a listener question “Do comics have characters or platforms?” Unfortunately, this isn't as easy to dismiss as you might think. (00:25:22) Dok sticks with Wes to discuss if Marvel and DC Comics have gone too far down the path of pushing agenda over story. (00:44:46) Wes talks about how comic book fans can both love and hate the hobby at the same time. (01:08:22) The hits keep on coming for IDW. They're in the process of losing their lucrative all-ages Star Wars and Marvel licenses and rumor has it they're going to lose the Hasbro license as well. Losing Star Wars, Marvel, G.I. Joe, Transformers and My Little Pony in a matter of months may be a blow they can't recover from. (01:25:25) Wes reviews the second chapter in Phillip Kennedy Johnson's Warworld Saga, Action Comics #1037. This action-packed issues is well worth the cover price and is sure to have readers anxious for more Superman vs. Mongul. (01:42:10) Marvel and Jason Aaron celebrated the 750th issue of Avengers comics in a very auspicious way. They basically crammed about 5 terrible stories into 1 comic and charged fans $10. (01:59:51) Dok joins Wes one final time to review 2 very bad comic books from last week, Harley Quinn and Hawkeye: Kate Bishop. (02:17:18) Finally, Skipntosh and Wes review episode 3 of Disney+ Hawkeye. Which is delivering fans the Kate Bishop they always wanter. (02:42:13)     Support Thinking Critical at Ko-fi. Monthly subscriptions receive bonus content and early access to some channel content. Ko-fi.com/thinkingcritical Thank you for supporting the channel!

Gevian Dargan, former assistant-editor at Milestone Comics, joins Wes for “It's Complicated” to discuss hot-button issues from todays culture. Today Gevian and Wes discuss the need for comics and other industries to find new customers. Unfortunately, comic books reliance on older readership is a problem of their own making. They abandoned kids and mass distribution in the 90's in favor of a more upscale, higher priced collectible market. Parents and children didn't stop reading they just looked for their entertainment in new places. In many ways Western comic books are priced out of many mass markets until they can get a better price point and more accessible product.  Now DC, Marvel and other publishers have turned to Twitter and other social media crowds to become their tastemakers. Running of the fans that stuck around and poisoning the well for potential new readers. How can Marvel and DC right the ship? Wes and Gevian discuss at length in today's It's Complicated.     Support Thinking Critical at Ko-fi. Monthly subscriptions receive bonus content and early access to some channel content. Ko-fi.com/thinkingcritical Thank you for supporting the channel!

Kiel from Comics Elite comic shop preview the best and worst releases of the new comic book week. DC and Marvel Comics are debuting several new titles during new comic week December 1st including Justice League Incarnate and Wonder Woman: Historia. Kiel lays out this weeks new releases you shouldn't expect much from or can outright skip. Kiel then name his Top 10 must read new comics for the week. Must listen for readers looking for the best bang for their new comic buck. Marvel Comics feature new issues of Amazing Spider-Man, Avengers, Daredevil and Venom. DC Comics feature new titles Justice League Incarnate and Wonder Woman: Historia. DC also release new issues of Batman: The Detective, Batman: Fear State, Wonder Woman, Nightwing and The Joker. Image Comics feature new series King of Spies and new issues of Spawn, Fire Power and The Department of Truth. Other indie comics of note include; Once and Future, Hellboy: Bones of Giants, Evil Ernie, Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles, Snake Eyes and Blade Runner: 2029.    Comics Elite Info YT: youtube.com/channel/UCqomzHuP6X3QLXElMdzm1JA Website: comicselitecomics.com/ Facebook: facebook.com/comicselite/   Support Thinking Critical at Ko-fi. Monthly subscriptions receive bonus content and early access to some channel content. Ko-fi.com/thinkingcritical Thank you for supporting the channel!

Wes and the Comics Aficionados celebrateThanksgiving week answering viewer questions. The Comics Aficionados break down all the latest comic book industry news and rumors. It was a light week for comic book news but The Comics Aficionados came prepared. Wes asked channel viewers for anything they would like answered by his nerdy friends. The Comics Aficionados are answering 30 questions live ranging form what our favorite comic book character is to what would happen if you put Joker in the Marvel Comics universe. Comic book writer and 80's pop culture guru Mark Pellegrini is also reviewing Ghostbusters: Aftlerlife. Did they finally get the reboot right in 2021? Don't miss a fun, interactive panel with Wes and the Comics Aficionados answering viewer questions live on Thinking Critical.   Support Thinking Critical at Ko-fi. Monthly subscriptions receive bonus content and early access to some channel content. Ko-fi.com/thinkingcritical Thank you for supporting the channel!

Batman Critic Josh McDonald and X-Men Historian Dok join Wes to talk about all the latest developments and comics in Batman and X-Men. First Josh joins Wes to talk about the continued confusion that is Batman: Fear State. A week after the event concluded DC are releasing stories in Detective Comics and Catwoman that tie into events that occurred months before. Thankfully Robin is a standalone book and is finishing up the Lazarus Tournament. Batman: Reptilian is so strange it has to be read to be believed. (00:00)  Dok and Wes talk about Marvel Comics teasing a future X-Men event “Destiny of X” before Inferno is complete or X Lives/Deaths of Wolverine has even started. Dok and Wes also review the latest installments of X-Men and Wolverine. Both of which are very lackluster. (27:33)   Support Thinking Critical at Ko-fi. Monthly subscriptions receive bonus content and early access to some channel content. Ko-fi.com/thinkingcritical Thank you for supporting the channel!

Wes is back with another episode of the The Comic Wrap. Wes runs down the biggest comic book and pop culture news and best conversations of the week. Gerry Duggan's X-Men: Green story arc concluded in X-Men: Unlimited Infinity Comics. Disney and Marvel brass should consider firing anyone associated with this deeply disturbing take on superheroes. (00:00:00) Unfortunately, despite outcry  Marvel refuse to acknowledge criticism. But Marvel and DC are going to learn you can only ignore your customers for so long. (00:20:42) Wes answers a listener question regarding how to fix Marvel and DC Comics. There's one fix that will result in immediate positive dividends for both companies. (00:43:59) Marvel Comics cancelled Luke Cage: City of Fire weeks before it was set to release. There's a couple reason why this could happen but Wes thinks he knows the answer. (01:03:45) Dylan from TheRealComicBookGamer joins Wes to talk about the top 5 “Oh Shit” comic book villains of all-times. (01:17:49) Dylan sticks around and talks about the state of Superman at DC Comics. Jon Kent's recent awakening may be grabbing all the headlines but there are some very high quality comics staring Clark Kent. (01:38:26) Dok joins Wes to talk about two of the worst new comics from last week. Wonder Woman: Evolution features some of the worst Wonder Woman art in recent memory, while X-O Manowar is 24-pages of exposition dump. (02:00:49) Wes reviews the hottest new comic of the week, Donny Cates' Hulk #1. It's an interesting premise but Wes isn't sure if it's even a Hulk story. (02:23:44) Young Justice writer Aaron Sparrow and pop culture critic Skipntosh join Wes to review the first two episodes of Hawkeye on Disney+. (02:44:55)   Support Thinking Critical at Ko-fi. Monthly subscriptions receive bonus content and early access to some channel content. Ko-fi.com/thinkingcritical Thank you for supporting the channel!

Wes sits down and talks about the tings he's most thankful for in 2021. Much like comics, Thanksgiving is pure Americana. It can be difficult being an expat during the holidays. Missing out on favorite traditions can be a bit of a bummer. But Wes has so many blessings in 2021 he lays them all out. He talks in detail about his growing family, the great friends he's made along the way. Channel supporters that have gone above and beyond, helping make Thinking Critical one of the most popular comic book YouTUbe and podcasts.    Support Thinking Critical at Ko-fi. Monthly subscriptions receive bonus content and early access to some channel content. Ko-fi.com/thinkingcritical Thank you for supporting the channel!

Despite technical issues Drew from Comics Elite and comic shop and later Kiel preview the best and worst releases of the new comic book week. DC and Marvel Comics are debuting several new titles during new comic week November 24th including Black Panther, Hulk and Hawkeye: Kate Bishop. Drew lays out this weeks new releases you shouldn't expect much from or can outright skip. (00:00) Drew and Kiel then name his Top 10 must read new comics for the week. (18:31) Must listen for readers looking for the best bang for their new comic buck. Marvel Comics feature new series Hulk, Black Panther and Hawkeye: Kate Bishop. Marvel Comics also release new issues of Amazing Spider-Man, Iron Man, The Death of Doctor Strange, X-Men, Wolverine and Thor. DC Comics feature new issues of Batman: Reptilian, Detective Comics, Robin, Flash and Superman '78. Image Comics feature new issues of Decorum, Gunslinger Spawn, Radiant Black and That Texas Blood. Other indie comics of note include; House of Slaughter, Hellboy, Barbarella, Transformers and Harbinger.    Comics Elite Info YT: youtube.com/channel/UCqomzHuP6X3QLXElMdzm1JA Website: comicselitecomics.com/ Facebook: facebook.com/comicselite/   Support Thinking Critical at Ko-fi. Monthly subscriptions receive bonus content and early access to some channel content. Ko-fi.com/thinkingcritical Thank you for supporting the channel!

Marvel and DC Comics released their comic book solicitations for February 2022. Wes sorts through well over 100 previews to find hidden gems and outright stinker. Marvel Comics are running multiple meaningless events in February. None more meaningless than Dan Slott's Fantastic Four: Reckoning War. An amazing 13 of 68 or 19% new comics are #1's, which is a considerable decrease from previous months. Marvel are also leaning heavily on Amazing Spider-Man, releasing 6 new issues in February. (00:00) DC Comics continue following failed Marvel Comics initiatives. In February they feature two teacups with beloved characters (Arthur Curry and Dick Grayson) showing new legacy characters the ropes ala Marvel Comics Legacy. 48% of all new DC Comics solicited are led by Batman, feature Batman In a team or are led by a Batman-related character. DC Comics continue putting out less and less comics to get excited for in February 2022. (30:33)   Support Thinking Critical at Ko-fi. Monthly subscriptions receive bonus content and early access to some channel content. Ko-fi.com/thinkingcritical Thank you for supporting the channel!

Comic book collectibles expert and critic Gem Mint Collectibles joins Wes and the Comics Aficionados. The Comics Aficionados break down all the latest comic book industry news and rumors. DC Comics, Marvel and other comic book publishers are increasingly using gimmick marketing to increase sales. Race, gender and sexuality swaps, autographed ratio variant covers and announced first appearances are being increasingly used to draw in speculators and collectors to supplement regular comic readers leaving. Is this healthy and are any of these gimmicks good investments? (00:03:10) Marvel announced weeks back they weren't renewing their all-ages Star Wars license with IDW Publishing. This week they announced, along with LucasFilm, Star Wars is retiring to Dark Horse Comics. Who published some of the greatest Star Wars comics of all-times over a 30 years period. (00:50:20) Many longtime comic readers don't consider current DC and Marvel Comics to be in continuity. If the DC and Marvel universes already ended when did it happen? Flashpoint? Crisis on Infinite Earths? Secret Wars? (01:08:05) James Tynion's brief Batman and Fear State are finally over. What did the Comics Aficionados think of the Batman: Fear State crossover event? Was James Tynion's Batman run a success to failure? (01:21:35) Marvel Studios released the long-awaited first Spider-Man: No Way Home trailer, eliciting excitement from comic book and comic movie fans alike. The trailer confirms Green Goblin, Electro, Sandman and Doc Ock are returning though the multiverse. What do the panel think about Spider-Man: No Way Home? (01:35:50) Finally, DC and Marvel released their Feb 2022 solicitations. Gwen-Verse, What It? Miles Morales and Aquamen are among the big announcements. What should comic book readers look out for in February 2022? (01:56:55)   Support Thinking Critical at Ko-fi. Monthly subscriptions receive bonus content and early access to some channel content. Ko-fi.com/thinkingcritical Thank you for supporting the channel!

Batman Critic Josh McDonald and X-Men Historian Dok join Wes to talk about all the latest developments and comics in Batman and X-Men. First Josh joins Wes to talk about Batman #117, the finale of Fear State and James Tynion's final issue on the series. Unfortunately, Tynion's leaves Batman with a whimper and many fans asking what happened with his Batman run down the stretch. Wes and Josh talk about where Batman and James Tynion go from here. (00:00) Wes and Josh then review the rest of this weeks Batman related comics; Nightwing #86, Robins #1 and Batman Vs Bigby. Tim Seeley's Robins was especially repugnant and is definitely worth skipping. (17:48) Dok and Wes talk about X-Men animated series retiring to Disney+ with X-Men '97. On the surface it looks exciting but the devil is in the details. They also discuss the X Lives of Wolverine, X Deaths of Wolverine trailer.  Marvel are overhyping this event series. Dok and Wes also review S.W.O.R.D. #10 and X-Force #25, the worst comic book of Ben Percy's career. (41:17)   Support Thinking Critical at Ko-fi. Monthly subscriptions receive bonus content and early access to some channel content. Ko-fi.com/thinkingcritical Thank you for supporting the channel!

Wes is back with another episode of the The Comic Wrap. Wes runs down the biggest comic book and pop culture news and best conversations of the week. Many longtime comic book readers feel something is missing from today's comic books. Wes lays out five things he wants from comic book and cites recent examples that show amazing comics are still being made. (00:00:00) Legendary comic artist JIm Steranko explains what he sees as lifeless modern comic book art on social media. Jim lays out multiple issues and how they are contributing to readers leaving the hobby. (00:27:56) Kamen America artist Tim Lim joins Wes to talk about what DC and Marvel can learn from crowd funding comic books. Here's a hint, it all starts with respecting your audience. (00:43:27) Perch and Wes discuss two ways Marvel and DC can leverage their existing product to compete with Manga. (01:09:56) Weekly Shonen Jump is reporting the lowest sales in 50 years for their Manga magazine. The bad news is their “failure: makes DC and Marvel look truly lost. (01:27:42) Star Wars comics have been in a tough spot since leaving Dark Horse for Marvel. There have been some very good stories here and there but for the most part the quality is lacking. LucasFilm and Dark Horse announced Star Wars all-ages comics are retiring to Dark Horse in 2022. (01:42:31) Marvel Comics continue rehashing old stories in 2022, to the detriment of longterm character health. Gwen-Verse rips of Spdier-Verse and introduces a host of alternative Gwen Stacy characters. What If? Miles Morales sees one of the most potentially lucrative new characters relegated to the same fate. (01:57:40) Marvel and DC both announced gender swaps for longstanding characters. In 2022, Mary Marvel becomes Shazam. Meanwhile Marvel are introducing a female Goblin to fight Spider-Man. (02:14:15) Finally, Wes and Drew from Comics Elite talk about the best indie, DC and Marvel Comics on the market today. (02:28:29)   Support Thinking Critical at Ko-fi. Monthly subscriptions receive bonus content and early access to some channel content. Ko-fi.com/thinkingcritical Thank you for supporting the channel!

Gevian Dargan, former assistant-editor at Milestone Comics, joins Wes for “It's Complicated” to discuss hot-button issues from todays culture. Today Gevian and Wes discuss the loss of confidence in journalism. The America news Media are among the most distrusted entities in the entire nation. It wasn't always like this. There was a time the every household tuned into their most trusted news source nightly. But the advent of CNN and the propagation of the 24 hour news cycle changed the role of journalism in America. Instead of informing most news outlets have found trolling is far more effective for repeat viewers. News organization action-wide resort to outright lies in today's news climate. Nowhere is this more evident than the trial of Kyle Rittenhouse. Multiple lies have been spread for over a year. The American public know not to trust their news sources today, but they still propagate their lies. How did we get here? Wes and Gevian have an honest conversation about an enormous problem in American media.    Support Thinking Critical at Ko-fi. Monthly subscriptions receive bonus content and early access to some channel content. Ko-fi.com/thinkingcritical Thank you for supporting the channel!

Drew from Comics Elite comic shop preview the best and worst releases of the new comic book week. DC and Marvel Comics are debuting several new titles during new comic week November 17th including Robins, Wonder Woman: Evolution and Fantastic Four Tribute. Drew lays out this weeks new releases you shouldn't expect much from or can outright skip. Drew then name his Top 10 must read new comics for the week. Must listen for readers looking for the best bang for their new comic buck. Marvel Comics feature new issues of Amazing Spider-Man, Dark Ages, Moon Knight and X-Force. DC Comics feature new titles Robins and Wonder Woman: Evolution. DC also release new issues of Batman, Green Lantern, Justice League, Nightwing and Superman: Son of Kal El. Image Comics feature new issues of King Spawn, Primordial and Deep Beyond. Other indie comics of note include; Eat the Rich, Power Rangers, Army of Darkness: 1979, Sonic the Hedgehog, Blade Runner: Origins and X-O Manowar.    Comics Elite Info YT: youtube.com/channel/UCqomzHuP6X3QLXElMdzm1JA Website: comicselitecomics.com/ Facebook: facebook.com/comicselite/   Support Thinking Critical at Ko-fi. Monthly subscriptions receive bonus content and early access to some channel content. Ko-fi.com/thinkingcritical Thank you for supporting the channel!

Wes is joined by award-winning comic book editor Joe Corallo and comic super-fan Eric Breen to review classic original X-Men and discuss the career of Mark Millar. For many, Marvel's X-Men start at Len Wein's Giant-Size X-Men and Chris Claremont taking over Uncanny X-Men. Unfortunately, many skip over several great stories by legendary creators like Stan Lee. X-Men #49-#52, written by Arnold Drake, highlights what a fantastic team the original lineup is. It also features 2 issues illustrated by Jim Stranko and the first appearance of Erik the Red. Mark Millar made a name for himself with cutting edge, darker takes on the DC and Marvel Comics universes. His Red Son is perhaps the greatest Superman else worlds story ever told. Civil War, Old Man Logan and the Ultimate were mined for billions in the MCU. Along the way Millar bet on himself and started making creator owned work with some of the finest artist in comic book. The success of Kick Ass, Kingsman and other titles ultimately landed him a huge Netflix deal. Millar is now the blueprint for a new generation of comic book creators.   Support Thinking Critical at Ko-fi. Monthly subscriptions receive bonus content and early access to some channel content. Ko-fi.com/thinkingcritical Thank you for supporting the channel!

Legendary Batman writer Chuck Dixon joins Wes and the Comics Aficionados. The Comics Aficionados break down all the latest comic book industry news and rumors. Former DC Comics color artist talked in-depth the issues that led to him leaving the comic publisher. He also claims the comic book industry is being held hostage by identity politics and progressive ideology. Chuck Dixon and the Comics Aficionados discuss the current state of the comic book industry. (00:08:15) Rumors abound DC Comics plan on killing off longtime Superman Clark Kent now that his son Jon Kent has taken the mantel in DC Comics. What reason would DC Comics have to make such a change and are fans willing to accept it? (01:13:52) Chuck Dixon is one of the most prolific comic writers of all-times. He's particularly ill known for his work with Batman and Daredevil. Today we put an age-old argument to rest. Who wins in a fight between Daredevil and Punisher? (01:39:10) Marvel Comics released a facsimile edition commemorating the first appearance of Miles Morales. The reprint outsold the ongoing Miles Morales: Spider-Man series by over 20,000 copies. (01:48:30) Finally, John Campea leaked Spider-Man: No Way Home images that confirm several rumors. This leak just happens to coincide with the first sustained negative publicity for the MCU with The Eternals. Is this an accidental leak or purposeful plant to change the current narrative? (02:06:30)   Support Thinking Critical at Ko-fi. Monthly subscriptions receive bonus content and early access to some channel content. Ko-fi.com/thinkingcritical Thank you for supporting the channel!

Wes talks about all the latest developments around Batman before X-Men Historian Dok joins Wes to talk the latest X-Men news. Josh McDonald is on assignment this week so Wes reviews Robin & Batman #1, Batman: The Imposter #2, The Joker #9 and I Am Batman #3. Jeff Lemire's Robin & Batman is a fantastic look at the early days of The Dynamic Duo, while Batman: The Imposter is a dark, gritty take on the Dark Knight. (00:00) Wes covers a recent interview with Phoenix Song: Echo Rebecca Roanhorse. Not surprisingly the writer admits they don't know or read comics and Marvel pitched them….not the other way around (25:41) Dok joins Wes to review Hellions #17 and Rebecca Roanhorse's Phoenix Song: Echo #1. (43:13)   Support Thinking Critical at Ko-fi. Monthly subscriptions receive bonus content and early access to some channel content. Ko-fi.com/thinkingcritical Thank you for supporting the channel!

Wes is back with another episode of the The Comic Wrap. Wes runs down the biggest comic book and pop culture news and best conversations of the week. Superman Jon Kent's first gay kiss with Jay Nakamura is officially canon on Tuesday. Wes received the pages early and dramatically reads the most important kiss in Superman history. (00:00:00) Rumors abound DC Comics are planning to kill Clark Kent off in Action Comics soon. History proves this will only backfire on the company. (00:12:25) Corporate entities are rapidly learning they can please Twitter or Customers but not both. How long can companies continue placing virtue signaling before profits? (00:31:46) Comic book used to be snapshots of culture. They've become personality studies of comic writers who can't keep Their personal issues from dominating stories. (00:51:49) Modern comic publishers and writers are placing local comic shops and mega corporations Walmart and Amazon on a collision course writing for the trades. (01:10:26) What if the best superhero comic stories have already been told? (01:27:47) Dok joins Wes to discuss whether Batman, Superman and Spider-Man have ultimately killed ingenuity within the US comic industry. (01:50:54) The Eternals is disappointing critics and fans alike like other MCU film before it. (02:14:05) Finally, John Campea leaked photos confirming several Spider-Man: No Way Home rumors. Wes thinks this is by design to deflect criticism of The Eternals. (02:33:26)   Support Thinking Critical at Ko-fi. Monthly subscriptions receive bonus content and early access to some channel content. Ko-fi.com/thinkingcritical Thank you for supporting the channel!

Gevian Dargan, former assistant-editor at Milestone Comics, joins Wes for “It's Complicated” to discuss hot-button issues from todays culture. Today Gevian and Wes discuss the death of chivalry in Western culture. There have been many casualties of the modern culture war, including chivalry. Fathers and Mothers used to teach their boys be gentlemen and treat girls with respect. The continued push for equality between genders has resulted in a loss of traditional delineation as far as treatment between sexes. Is there any chance for chivalry to make a comeback in the future? Wes and Gevian have a heartfelt conversation about the future of chivalry in Western societies.    Support Thinking Critical at Ko-fi. Monthly subscriptions receive bonus content and early access to some channel content. Ko-fi.com/thinkingcritical Thank you for supporting the channel!

Shawn and Drew from Comics Elite comic shop preview the best and worst releases of the new comic book week. DC and Marvel Comics are debuting several new titles during new comic week November 10th including Venom, The Thing and Robin & Batman, . Shawn and Drew lay out this weeks new releases you shouldn't expect much from or can outright skip. (00:00) Shawn and Drew then name his Top 10 must read new comics for the week. (32:09) Must listen for readers looking for the best bang for their new comic buck. Marvel Comics feature new titles Venom and The Thing. Marvel also release new issues of Amazing Spider-Man, Alien, Hellions and Miles Morales: Spider-Man. DC Comics feature new titleRobin & Batman. DC also release new issues of Batman: The Imposter, Superman vs. Lobo, Action Comics, The Joker and Wonder Woman. Image Comics feature new series Phenom X and What's The Furthers Place From Here? as well as new issues of 6 Sidekicks of Trigger Keaton, Stillwater and Undiscovered Country. Other indie comics of note include; Mighty Morphing, Mazebook, Vampirella, Canto III and Witchblood.    Comics Elite Info YT: youtube.com/channel/UCqomzHuP6X3QLXElMdzm1JA Website: comicselitecomics.com/ Facebook: facebook.com/comicselite/   Support Thinking Critical at Ko-fi. Monthly subscriptions receive bonus content and early access to some channel content. Ko-fi.com/thinkingcritical Thank you for supporting the channel!

Comic book writer, musician, TV host and voice actor Jessi Blaze Snider stops bye thinking critical to talk about bad messaging in the MCU's Shang-Chi movie and more. Shang-Chi was well received, with many MCU fans feeling it exceeds their expectations going in. Jessi Blaze Snider talks about having to take his children aside after viewing the film and talk about the poor morals held by Chang-Chi. Jessi and Wes also discuss how the best comic book characters are layered over decades of storytelling. And how if comic book writers don't learn form the past they eventually break the characters.    Support Thinking Critical at Ko-fi. Monthly subscriptions receive bonus content and early access to some channel content. Ko-fi.com/thinkingcritical Thank you for supporting the channel!

Legendary comic writer Chuck Dixon sits down with Wes to talk about his career, Batman, Denny O'Neil, modern comic books and Dick Grayson. Chuck Dixon is widely considered one of the greatest Batman writers in comic book history. His work redefined the character and still influences the industry to this day. Chuck talks about how he got into comics and why he became so associated with The Dark Knight. He discusses the influence legendary comic writer and editor Denny O'Neil had on his career and some of the lessons he learned from him. They also discuss Nightwing, DC's new female Bane character, stories he can't write in comic books anymore and who is Dick Grayson's true love. Don't miss a fantastic interview with Batman legend, Chuck Dixon.   Support Thinking Critical at Ko-fi. Monthly subscriptions receive bonus content and early access to some channel content. Ko-fi.com/thinkingcritical Thank you for supporting the channel!

Wes is joined by Comics Aficionados: Comic Book septic Chris Braly from Bleeding Fool, Drew from Comics Elite, comic book writer and editor Aaron Sparrow, Batman and pop culture critic Josh McDonald and co-host Dok. The Comics Aficionados break down all the latest comic book industry news and rumors. TMZ claims DC Comics received so much backlash from the Jon Kent bisexual reveal they needed police escorts and security for their Burbank studio and creators. Other media outlets ran the story and embellished it, claiming the received “death threats” as well. Turns out skeptics where right from the beginning, none of this ever happened. Too bad DC Comics couldn't be bothered to correct the record. (00:06:00) The Comics Aficionados love to debate geek stuff and this week the verbally joust over a Bane vs Kingpin fight. (01:01:35) Nine Image Comics employee announced a new Comic Book Workers Union this week under the guise of pay and accountability issues. But if you read the fine print you see what they really want is power to gatekeep and apply purity tests on projects. And the ability to overrule Todd McFarlane, Robert Kirkman and the other executives at Image Comics. (01:15:30) Comic prices have been outpacing inflation for decades in the comic industry. Are we finally reaching the tipping point where readers have to walk away? (01:48:32) Finally, The MCU's latest film Eternals is finally opening up in theaters worldwide. Despite pour reviews and lowered expectations the film is still expected to make a profit. This week Disney and Marvel Studios learned it's banned in select Middle Easter countries for its portrayal of a LGBT relationship. (02:07:52)   Support Thinking Critical at Ko-fi. Monthly subscriptions receive bonus content and early access to some channel content. Ko-fi.com/thinkingcritical Thank you for supporting the channel!

Batman Critic Josh McDonald and X-Men Historian Dok join Wes to talk about all the latest developments and comics in Batman and X-Men. First Josh joins Wes to talk about four new Batman comics including The Dark Knights of Steel, Batman, Batman: Reptilian and Arkham City: The Order of the World. Tom Taylor has drawn plenty of criticism for his recent Superman work but proves once again he's the king of Elseworlds genre comics at DC. Dark Knights of Steel sets up an intriguing blend of DC Comics characters in a Game of Thrones style fantasy setting. Unfortunately, James Tynion's Batman continues limping to the finish line as he wraps up his Fear State event. Garth Ennis takes weird to a new level with his Batman: Reptilian miniseries. (00:00) Dok and Wes talk about X-Men group editor Jordan White's recent interview with AIPT. White is confronted with multiple story events that don't lineup in Jonathan Hickman's Inferno. Rather than own tip to the mistakes, Jordan White called fans credulous and told them to stop thinking too much about the stories. Just another in a long line of gaffes for the weakest link in the X-Men office. They also review the latest issue of X-Men: Legends. Larry Hama continues boring readers with a halfcocked Wolverine story that serves no purpose within the greater X-Men history and lore. (26:46)   Support Thinking Critical at Ko-fi. Monthly subscriptions receive bonus content and early access to some channel content. Ko-fi.com/thinkingcritical Thank you for supporting the channel!

Wes is back with another episode of the The Comic Wrap. Wes runs down the biggest comic book and pop culture news and best conversations of the week. Wes opens up talking about how green and incompetent editors are destroying the craft of comic book writing. And why they have no incentive to hire the best comic book writers available. (00:01:02) Batman critics Josh McDonald joins Wes to discuss the recent announcement of a Comic Workers Union at Image Comics. If you read the fine print it's clear they only want one thing, power to gatekeeper based on purity tests. (00:18:11) Comic writer and TV personality Jesse Blaze Snider and comic editor Aaron Sparrow sit with Wes to discuss the purpose of gender and sexuality swaps in comic books. Bottom line, if the changes don't sell more comics long-term, why make them? (00:38:28) H.H. German of Sigma Comics visits Thinking Critical to follow-up last weeks comic book criticism topic. H.H. believes there is an entire generation of comic books writers who are scared to improve, because they would have to admit they aren't perfect. (01:22:57) Comic book Twitter continues proving its the cesspool of the fandom. Gevian and Wes get heated talking about recent incidents on the social media platform. (01:59:23) The entire country and comic community contour to become more and more polarized as the days pass. Tribalism and refusing to acknowledge individual opinions is hurting everyone. (02:20:22) TMZ recently reported DC Comics requested police security for comic creators associated with the upcoming Jon Kent bisexual reveal. Problem is it's completely false. Not that DC could be bothered to set the record straight. (02:40:06) Finally, Drew from Comics Elite joins Wes to discuss his 4 comic writing tropes killing the industry. (02:57:40)   Support Thinking Critical at Ko-fi. Monthly subscriptions receive bonus content and early access to some channel content. Ko-fi.com/thinkingcritical Thank you for supporting the channel!

Gevian Dargan, former assistant-editor at Milestone Comics, joins Wes for “It's Complicated” to discuss hot-button issues from todays culture. Today Gevian and Wes discuss the how customers separate art from artist in entertainment, music and comic books. Should customers have to give up works that shaped their youth or got them through hard times when it turns out the creator is a dirtbag? Joss Whedon, Hulk Hogan, R Kelly, Bill Cosby, Mel Gibson all created memorable moments in pop culture. Is it wrong to ignore their misdeeds and continue supporting them? Can customers feel good if they give outed scumbags more money by supporting past or future work. Wes and Gevian have a in-depth conversation about separating art from artist.    Support Thinking Critical at Ko-fi. Monthly subscriptions receive bonus content and early access to some channel content. Ko-fi.com/thinkingcritical Thank you for supporting the channel!

Shawn and Drew from Comics Elite comic shop preview the best and worst releases of the new comic book week. DC and Marvel Comics are debuting several new titles during new comic week November 3rd including Dark Knights of Steel and Human Target. Shawn and Drew lay out this weeks new releases you shouldn't expect much from or can outright skip. (00:00) Shawn and Drew then name his Top 10 must read new comics for the week. (56:24) Must listen for readers looking for the best bang for their new comic buck. Marvel Comics feature new issues of Winter Guard, Star Wars, Amazing Fantasy and X-Men: Legends. DC Comics feature new titles Dark Knights of Steel and Human Target. DC also release new issues of Batman, Batman: Reptilian, Superman '78 and Swamp Thing. Image Comics feature new series Newburn and A Thing Called Truth as well as new issues of Fire power, Radiant Black and Silver Coin. Other indie comics of note include; Knighted, Hellboy: The Bones of Giants, Orphan and the Five Beasts, Red Sonja and The Rush.    Comics Elite Info YT: youtube.com/channel/UCqomzHuP6X3QLXElMdzm1JA Website: comicselitecomics.com/ Facebook: facebook.com/comicselite/   Support Thinking Critical at Ko-fi. Monthly subscriptions receive bonus content and early access to some channel content. Ko-fi.com/thinkingcritical Thank you for supporting the channel!

Comic book producer and artist Brett R. Smith joins Wes to talk about the state of conservatism in entertainment and media. Liberals played the long game in Hollywood and media for decades, investing in movies, television, music, animation and comics to seed progressive ideas through pop culture. Resulting in conservative ideals and principals being wiped out of the pop culture landscape. It's gotten to the point where expressing conservative ideas cost actors, producers, artists and musicians can cost creators their careers. What can conservatives due to be competitive in promoting their principals using pop culture? How much grind do right-leaning creators have to make up? Who can step up and turn the tide in today's culture war? Wes and Brett R. Smith talk about why conservatives need to fight to promote their ideals and principals in entertainment and media.   Black Tide Rising Vol. 1 Indiegogo Campaign Link: https://igg.me/at/blacktiderising/x#/   Support Thinking Critical at Ko-fi. Monthly subscriptions receive bonus content and early access to some channel content. Ko-fi.com/thinkingcritical Thank you for supporting the channel!

Wes is joined by award-winning comic book editor Joe Corallo and comic super-fan Eric Breen to review classic Green Lantern and discuss the career of Todd McFarlane. Steve Englehart and Joe Staton crafted many classic cosmic tales during their time on Green lantern. Unfortunately, GL #194-#198 seems to have fallen out of favor despite being amazing. Hal Jordan returns to the Corps, Guy screws everything up and the entire galaxy almost dies. What more could a comic fan ask for? Todd McFarlane is one of the most influential comic creators of his generation. Despite receiving over 700 no's he persevered and became a Spider-Man legend. He eventually became one of the founding members of Image Comics, creating their flagship character to this day. McFarlane could leave Spawn and comic books behind after his successes outside comics. But he remains because he loves comic books.   Support Thinking Critical at Ko-fi. Monthly subscriptions receive bonus content and early access to some channel content. Ko-fi.com/thinkingcritical Thank you for supporting the channel!

Wes is joined by Comics Aficionados: Comic book YouTuber Jimmy from Comic Quirks, comic book retailers Use Carter of Fantastic Comics and Drew of Comics Elite, music producer and comic fan Jerome and co-host Dok. The Comics Aficionados break down all the latest comic book industry news and rumors. Paper supply shortages continue causing havoc in the comic book industry. Marvel are delaying 70 comics over the next three months. DC Comics and the Manga industry continue experiencing shortages. Image Comics announced they will no longer do 2nd purinintgs and changes to their retailer exclusive cover program. (00:11:47) Marvel Comics made several announcements including a new Iron Fist, Savage Spider-Man and Ghost Rider series. Of course, removing Danny Rand from the mantle of Iron Fist garnered the most headlines. (00:45:35) There was a time when horror comics ruled the comic industry. The aficionados discuss their favorite horror comic issues and stories of all-times. (01:34:28) The Eternals is the worst reviewed MCU film to date. Will this effect the films box office? (02:01:45) Finally, the Aficionados discuss their favorite horror movies of all-times. (02:17:20)   Support Thinking Critical at Ko-fi. Monthly subscriptions receive bonus content and early access to some channel content. Ko-fi.com/thinkingcritical Thank you for supporting the channel!

Batman Critic Josh McDonald and X-Men Historian Dok join Wes to talk about all the latest developments and comics in Batman and X-Men. First Josh joins Wes to talk about four new Batman comics including The Long Halloween Special, Batman/Fortnite, Detective Comics and Robin. Jeph Loeb and Tim Sale's return to the Batman Long Halloween universe is almost effortless as the comic is easily the highlight of the week and and return to form for Loeb and Sale. But the rest of the new Batman comics are solid across the board. (00:00) Jonathan Hickman super-fan Skipntosh joins Wes to talk about the latest issue of X-Men Inferno. Despite a strong start issue #2 its bogged down by far too many flashbacks and Quiet Council votes and not enough forward progression. (27:18)  Dok and Wes talk about X-Stratix spinoff The X-Cellence finally arriving over two years after Marvel first announced it. Rob Liefeld is retiring to his X-Force roots with X-Force: Killshot anniversary special. They also review new issues of Wolverine and S.W.O.R.D.. (50:28)   Support Thinking Critical at Ko-fi. Monthly subscriptions receive bonus content and early access to some channel content. Ko-fi.com/thinkingcritical Thank you for supporting the channel!

Wes is back with another episode of the The Comic Wrap. Wes runs down the biggest comic book and pop culture news and best conversations of the week. Wes talks in-depth how thoughtful criticism is being labeled hate speech in modern comics to protect creators. Rather than take criticism and improve, comic writers insist their own customers are bad people. (00:00:00) Perch joins Wes and they discuss how they've both felt unenthused about DC and Marvel Comics. Who and what would it take to make the Big 2 exciting again? (00:17:29) DC Comics are sacrificing their most profitable icons for short-term revenue with no long-term plans. Unfortunately, you can only change the race, gender or sexuality of characters so many times before people tune out. (00:47:00) In many ways it feels like Marvel and DC leadership hate their own characters and universes. If the caretakers of these properties don't care, how can fans care? (01:06:47) Perch drops by agains to talk about why so many unhinged individuals are attracted to the comic book industry. (01:30:32) Marvel Comics announced Danny Rand is vacating the Iron Fist mantle, to be replaced in early 2022. They also have plans for new Savage Spider-Man and Ghost Rider series. (01:47:40) Dok joins Wes to discuss if there's room for comic cover to become all-time classics in todays markets of never-ending variant covers. (02:08:32) Finally, Valiant Comics are celebrating 10 years in 2022. Wes asks if they should celebrate anything when they can't sell comic books. (02:28:03)   Support Thinking Critical at Ko-fi. Monthly subscriptions receive bonus content and early access to some channel content. Ko-fi.com/thinkingcritical Thank you for supporting the channel!

Gevian Dargan, former assistant-editor at Milestone Comics, joins Wes for “It's Complicated” to discuss hot-button issues from todays culture. Today Gevian and Wes discuss the fallout of Dave Chappelle's final Netflix special ‘The Closer'. Chappelle has been pushing the envelope in public discourse for years, starting with Chappelle Show. But it's his commentary in 'The Closer' about the trans community that has everyone up in arms. The best comedy often has customers laughing at taboo subjects and opens society to new avenues of discourse. But in modern society it feels like discourse is off the table and comedians are becoming more politically correct. Should people support Chappelle even if they don't agree with his opinions? Should Netflix pull the special? Are comedians allowed to be funny? Should Dave Chappelle be allowed to express opinions in 'The Closer'? It's a debate many of us never thought would be necessary.   Support Thinking Critical at Ko-fi. Monthly subscriptions receive bonus content and early access to some channel content. Ko-fi.com/thinkingcritical Thank you for supporting the channel!

Shawn and Drew from Comics Elite comic shop preview the best and worst releases of an enormous new comic book week. DC and Marvel Comics are debuting several new titles during new comic week October 27th including Batman/Fortnite: Foundation, Batman: The Long Halloween Special, DC vs Vampires, Task Force Z and Darkhold: Blade. Shawn and Drew lay out this weeks new releases you shouldn't expect much from or can outright skip. (00:00) Shawn and Drew then name his Top 10 must read new comics for the week. (55:43) Must listen for readers looking for the best bang for their new comic buck. Marvel Comics feature new issues of Amazing Spider-Man, Daredevil, Inferno, Moon Knight and Wolverine. DC Comics feature new titles Batman/Fortnite: Foundation, Batman: The Long Halloween Special, DC vs Vampires, Task Force Z and Aquaman/Green Arrow: Deep Target. DC also release new issues of Deathstroke Inc., Detective Comics, Robin and Harley Quinn. The indie scene features new BOOM! sequel series House of Slaughter, Dark Horse's Hellboy: The Silver Lantern Club, and Valiant's Harbinger relaunch. Image Comics release new issues of Adventureman, Crossover, Killadelphia, Spawn and The Good Asian. Other indie comics of note include; Once & Future, We Only Find Them When They're Dead, Black Hammer: Reborn and Transformers.    Comics Elite Info YT: youtube.com/channel/UCqomzHuP6X3QLXElMdzm1JA Website: comicselitecomics.com/ Facebook: facebook.com/comicselite/   Support Thinking Critical at Ko-fi. Monthly subscriptions receive bonus content and early access to some channel content. Ko-fi.com/thinkingcritical Thank you for supporting the channel!

Wes is joined by award-winning comic book editor Joe Corallo and comic super-fan Eric Breen to review Marv Wolfman's Fantastic Four and discuss the career of Gil Kane. Marv Wolfman is one of the most adaptable comic writers in comic book history. Effortlessly moving between godlike superheroes, street level vigilantes and team books. In the lead up to Fantastic Four #200 Reed Richards lost his powers and the family had fallen apart. This story sees the family reform as Dr. Doom attempts to clone himself and solidify his power on Latveria. (00:00) Gil Kane is one of the most prolific comic book artists in the history of the industry. Gil Kane is most well known for his game changing illustrations in Green Lantern. But he had many memorable runs at DC and Marvel including Superman, Amazing Spider-Man, Detective Comics, Savage Sword of Conan and more. (46:49)   Support Thinking Critical at Ko-fi. Monthly subscriptions receive bonus content and early access to some channel content. Ko-fi.com/thinkingcritical Thank you for supporting the channel!

Marvel and DC Comics released their comic book solicitations for January 2022. Wes sorts through well over 100 previews to find hidden gems and outright stinker. DC Comics continue using new Superman Jon Kent as a sounding board for Tom Taylor's politics. DC are light on #1 issues but over half the line star batman or a batman related character. (00:00) Marvel Comics are all about events and #1 issues in January. For some reason there are 8 total comics associated with Devils Reign. It seems a bit off base thinking a titles with low readership warrants such a wide-ranging comic event. Almost one-quarter of all Marvel Comics are also #1 issues as Marvel has run out of ideas to entice comic readers (29:53)   Support Thinking Critical at Ko-fi. Monthly subscriptions receive bonus content and early access to some channel content. Ko-fi.com/thinkingcritical Thank you for supporting the channel!

Wes is joined by Comics Aficionados: Owner of start-up comic publisher Animated Concepts Gevian Dargan, pop culture and basketball Twitch streamer Skipntosh, Drew from Comics Elite comic shop, Batman and pop culture critic Josh McDonald and co-host Dok. The Comics Aficionados break down all the latest comic book industry news and rumors. Rumors persisted for weeks DC Comics and Tom Taylor were planning on Jon Kent going out as gay. DC Comics push towards woke agenda continues without stop. At DC FanDome Jim Lee announced Superman no longer fights for the “American Way.” In Nubia & the Amazons it's revealed Themyscira now includes trans Amazons, a change from longstanding DC Comics lore. Just how far will DC Comics push their woke agenda? (00:05:00) Captain Marvel 2 director blames Captain America for the Thanos Snap in Infinity War. The Aficionados debate their most hated comic book opinions. (01:14:35) DC dropped their latest trailer for The Batman at DC FanDome. Is this the batman movie we need right now? (01:56:20) Ruby Rose dropped a litany of allegations against WarnerMedia, The CW and The Batwoman series regarding her exit from the show. WarnerMedia and several actors are defending themselves, saying Ruby Rose was the issue on-set during season 1. (02:12:00) Marvel Comics January 2022 solicitations are out and they continue replying on #1 issues and events. What comic should Marvel Comics fans look to read and avoid in January 2022? (02:22:55)    Support Thinking Critical at Ko-fi. Monthly subscriptions receive bonus content and early access to some channel content. Ko-fi.com/thinkingcritical Thank you for supporting the channel!

Batman Critic Josh McDonald and X-Men Historian Dok join Wes to talk about all the latest developments and comics in Batman and X-Men. First Josh joins Wes to talk about The Batman trailer that debuted at DC FanDome. There's a fever pitch among DCEU fans after the latest clips of Robert Pattinson donning the cape and cowl. (00:00) Wes and Josh recap a very poor week in Batman comics. James Tynion's Batman and Tom King's Batman/Catwoman are woefully bad in both execution and characterization. Unfortunately, issues of Nightwing and Catwoman weren't much better. (22:53) Marvel Announced Captain Krakoa is replacing Cyclops as the leader of the X-Men in January. Odd timing, as Cyclops just quit his position as Captain Commander of Krakoa to lead the team. Dok and Wes also review X-Men: Trial of Magneto #3, one of the worst X-Men comics in recent memory. (57:05)   Support Thinking Critical at Ko-fi. Monthly subscriptions receive bonus content and early access to some channel content. Ko-fi.com/thinkingcritical Thank you for supporting the channel!

Wes is back with another episode of the The Comic Wrap. Wes runs down the biggest comic book and pop culture news and best conversations of the week. Comic writer and journalist Doug Ernst and Wes discuss how the direction of DC, Marvel and other entertainment leave customers with no alternatives. The powers that be want to leave customers no quarter from far-left ideological and political propaganda. (00:00:00) Perch drops by to discuss whether the debate over comic books shipped vs sold holds water in today's market. (00:31:51) Indie artist Tim Lim joins the pod to talk about Manga's dominance in the North American comic market. Manga are delivering Western fans what they want and are poised to leave DC and Marvel behind. (00:49:15) DC Comics announced Superman no longer fights for the American Way at DC FanDome. Not surprisingly, as Superman hasn't used his Truth, Justice and The American Way motto in years. (01:12:57) DC also announced their Milestone Initiative, a program aimed at developing black comic book writers and artists. Gevian Dargan discuss why this is good business for comics. (01:33:25) Actress Ruby Rose laid out a host of claims about nightmarish conditions during her time on The CW's Batwoman. Rose claims execs at WarnerMedia and the Batwoman show runner abused their positions and endangered staff. (01:51:05) Josh and Wes look back at the most hated story in modern DC Comics, Heroes in Crisis. (02:11:05) Finally, John Leone from The 616 Comics joins Wes to update the Marvel Penguin Random House shipping issues plaguing comic book retailers. (02:34:50)   Support Thinking Critical at Ko-fi. Monthly subscriptions receive bonus content and early access to some channel content. Ko-fi.com/thinkingcritical Thank you for supporting the channel!

Wes and Gevian Dargan talk about the recently unearthed video from DC Comics writer Tee Franklin claiming Mark Waid used racial epithets among other allegations. DC Comics recently hired relative comic industry newcomer Tee Franklin. The minority, LGBTQ and disabled writer has already see her fair share of controversy. First, Poison Ivy fans took offense to her portrayal of the character as bisexual rather than lesbian in Harley Quinn: Eat, Bang, Kill Tour. Then she stirred up the C.B. Cebulski Akira Yoshida controversy with Steven DeKnight. But long before DC Comics ever hired Tee Franklin she created a YouTube video on her channel ‘MizTee Franklin' titled “Dear White Comic Creators your silence is complicity.” In it she claims DC and Marvel Comics writer Mark Waid used the n-word around her multiple times at Baltimore Comic-Con. She also claims numerous white comic creators, including Scott Snyder, contacted her about Black Lives Matter projects or comics aimed a black readers. Tee Franklin took offense to white creators looking to cash in on BLM while refusing to publicly support the movement.   Support Thinking Critical at Ko-fi. Monthly subscriptions receive bonus content and early access to some channel content. Ko-fi.com/thinkingcritical Thank you for supporting the channel!