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Post by David on Jan 29, 2008 19:33:02 GMT -5
Please let us know what you think!
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Post by HoM on Jan 30, 2008 2:14:21 GMT -5
They're baaaack!
Dave Charlton! James Dufresne! Justice Society of America!
And what a return!
I had the pleasure of reading this issue months back, and I have to say, I loved what I had to read. I sometimes worry that I won't enjoy Dave's JSA stuff, as I don't pick up the Geoff Johns book, but this is so awesome!
The villains were fun, THAT scene was a shocker, and, well... #2... Where are you?
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Post by David on Jan 30, 2008 10:14:42 GMT -5
They're baaaack! Dave Charlton! James Dufresne! Justice Society of America! And what a return! Thanks, Charlie! This issue does indeed mark my return to regular work at the DC2, and I couldn't be more excited. I have at least a year's worth of storylines already plotted for JSA, and I'm really looking forward to sharing them with the rest of our community. Coincidentally, this seems as good a place as any to announce I will be the guest writer for another ongoing title very soon. Just a one-shot, but I've not written this title before, so it should be interesting... I'll leave it to the editor to make that announcement when he deems it appropriate . I have to say that I'm thrilled to have Jim on JSA cover duty (not to mention the bonus pieces he did for this issue). He's a great partner and collaborator, and adds a lot to the process. I also want to throw a big "Thanks!" out there to Riz, as well, for stepping up with a great new logo, and for dressing the cover (with a few subtle effects tweaks). He's the Scotty of the DC2. I appreciate the feedback! You are a great test-audience and a great fan. You love this stuff as much as I do, so to give you (and others) a thrill is what it's all about! Thanks for the compliment, but--- my god!--- by all means pick up Johns' book! Some of the best superhero stories out there right now. And not to worry, the two books are different enough, so you won't feel like you are getting a re-tread from either. Oh. Except for the fact that a Superman with graying sideburns will appear in these pages soon. But is he who you think he is...? They always are! Hope my characterization of the Shade passes muster. My favorite to write though had to be Ragdoll. Too bad about the Monocle, though, huh? Thanks, but I like to think there were a few shockers in this issue...! Presumably you mean the one for which Jim drew the interior pic...? And what a pic! Says it all . February 27th! A quick word about the secret file update at the end. Jim and I decided early on that we wanted to include a pin-up and bio of the members of the team with each issue, and it felt natural to start with Hawkman, especially given his recent history in the DC2niverse. This entry is not included in this week's Who's Who in the DC2 #3 because it is essentially the same as the one previously posted in #2--- but with an update and a new pic (and new costume)! For the bio next month--- Starman!
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Post by >>Riz! on Jan 30, 2008 13:59:10 GMT -5
More new members? Somehow I have this Geoff Johns feeling reading this issue. I would have liked to see more of the "Infinitor" Kids before you introduce new members. But it was a great read and I'll be back for issue #2 to see who the Starman is and if I'm right. I hope to see more of the villian Society and that you explain who the guys are, because I only knew two of them and two more by name when I searched for ideas for a certain other book
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Post by lissilambe on Jan 30, 2008 14:28:05 GMT -5
Well, this was expected. Everything came together in issue one just like it was supposed to. The JSA rebands, old-timers teaching the new generation, the introduction of a new set of young whelps to be trained, and the villains getting together to settle old scores because "it's time". The ending was a standard ending for a comic today, especially a first issue. IF we're not killing (or appearing to kill) someone out of the box, guess we're just not relevant. (that was meant more of a joke to David adn a shot at DC and Marvel, for the record) The new characters aren't all that impressive yet to me, and the Injustice Society getting together "because" was just...yeah, that's the way it should be I guess. Next issue, and the issues after that, will tell us how this series gels, and if it starts to lift up above the story being told, both in this series and over in the standard DCU. This was a set-up issue for sure, and it was a good one. Solid. Did the job. the foundation is poured...nothing fancy about it, so we'll see how the house gets built up over it now. Effective first issue. Great cover. Wonderful logo. Take care Don
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RocketeerZ
Staff
Don't look at me, it was broken when I got here.
Posts: 379
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Post by RocketeerZ on Jan 30, 2008 16:46:46 GMT -5
I'm a sucker for a team book and was glad to see the JSA back.
I think the overall issue was strong. Some very tight scenes are setting the bar rather high. I was surprised at the death in the first issue (although the revelation of parentage was actually kind of telegraphed) and I can see that we might go a little while before we see the whole team together (shades of Metzler's JLA and John's JSA there, but that's something I like).
Nice double cliffhanger with The Hourman family at the mercy of Ragdoll and the return of a dead hero.
I have to say I LOVE the logo... looks great. Nice capper to a very well done cover.
All in all, glad to see the JSA in the DC2 Universe! Looking forward to the next issue.
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Post by David on Jan 30, 2008 17:39:38 GMT -5
More new members? Somehow I have this Geoff Johns feeling reading this issue. A vision of the JSA that Johns and I share, Riz, is that this is a big team, a true Society, in the larger sense (like the Legion of Super Heroes). I know that leads to all sorts of problems with exposure and characterization, but if the readsers are willing to stick around, I promise to do as best I can by all the characters; no one is filler, and everyone will get a storyline! And see more you shall! Atomika has a great character arc coming up, as does Obsidian and the Ray. In fact, I think I'm doing more with the newbies than the Golden Agers (though they're in it up to their eyeballs, too). The current roster of the team will be stabilized after issue #3, and believe me, the additions aren't just tacked on: they deserve to be there, and we'll get geat stories out of them. Incidentally, it's a good thing the roster is growing, because some crazy stuff is on the horizon, and the JSA is going to need all their resources to take it on--- I'm talking war-time, All-Star Squadron levels! Thank you, sir! As to Starman's identity, you've got two guesses (of course, for those of you who've read Gotterdammerung, this may not be a surprise). Definately more on the Injustice Society coming in the next two issues! And we haven't seen the full roster on that side yet, either. The Wizard still has a few tricks up his sleeve... Thanks for reading, and for the feedback, Riz!
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Post by David on Jan 30, 2008 17:56:54 GMT -5
Well, it was solicited for nearly two months... Oh, I see, now: cleverly disguised disdain. And watch who you're calling whelps, buddy! If by standard ending, you mean multiple cliffhangers, surprise revelations, unexpected "deaths", and heroic entrances, then I hope to bore you with them every issue. It does seem rather inevitable, don't you think? And I wouldn't be so sure if we've really seen the Wizard's true agenda, yet, either... No love for the new characters? Well, maybe they'll grow and develop the longer they're around. Hope you stick around to see it! Thank you very much! It's my goal to always write an issue that's twice as good as the one before--- let's see if I deliver next month! Just for you, Don, I shall build the Taj Mahal! Thank you very much for reading and the feedback!
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Post by David on Jan 30, 2008 18:16:25 GMT -5
I'm a sucker for a team book and was glad to see the JSA back. Thanks, Pat, me too! You might even say I created the DC2 just to tell JSA stories (Truly! Just ask Scott Kruger!) ;D. Thanks! Really? What gave it away (if you don't mind my asking)? As to the death... Am I really fooling anyone here? If so, good! He's dead! Dead like Jason Todd! And Bucky! And will definately not be back next issue... Around page 9 or so... I swear it... I like a big team, too, Pat, but how does next issue sound? ;D Glad you liked it! Isn't it awesome! Riz really comes though in a pinch, and Jim delivered a real winner. Talk about gilding the lily...! Thanks, Pat! I really appreciate your enthusiasm about this titleand promise to give you a helluva ride for your thirty day wait!
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Post by UltimateDC on Jan 31, 2008 1:47:55 GMT -5
Now THAT'S a kickoff!
I love both the JSA and the IJSW, although they each have some serious rosters that I can't keep track of. Can you post a member list for each team, just for my convinience?
Anyway, back to the issue. I feel guilty that I enjoyed Ted's death so much, but dammit was it well done (if not a bit cliche and Star Wars-esque). I'm glad to see Hourman and Starman are going to join and happy to see some of my favorite old members like Obsidian, Jesse Quick and Alan Scott.
Good start. I'm looking forward to where this is going.
-UDC
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Post by David on Jan 31, 2008 9:50:15 GMT -5
Now THAT'S a kickoff! I love both the JSA and the IJSW, although they each have some serious rosters that I can't keep track of. Can you post a member list for each team, just for my convinience? Sure! The JSA's current roster:Hawkman Green Lantern The Flash Sandman Wildcat Jade Obsidian The Ray Bulleteer Cyclone Atomika Captain Marvel Dr. Fate (though I'd call him more a reservist at this point) There are a number of inactive members, as well, including the Atom, Black Canary (I), Hourman, Dr. Midnight... and where the heck is the Spectre?!? By the end of the first arc, we will add at least two to that roster (That new Starman, perhaps?), and possibly as many as four! But don't worry: I promise to give you at least one bio an issue (and more if Jim is up to churning out the pin-ups!), and I can see now we may need a roll-call feature, like Scott did with Legion of Super Heroes and John and Jay do with Suicide Squad. The Injustice Society are:The Wizard Solomon Grundy The Shade Tigress Icicle The Fiddler Ragdoll The Monocle (deceased) Gentleman Ghost ... and there is one more member yet to be revealed, but he/she is a doozy! I could do worse than Star Wars-esque! Glad you liked it (I think ); this just semmed to make sense to me, given Ted's reputation and his clashes with Paula. Tigress is going to be a character to watch going forward, don't you think? Those could indeed be two new members... Some of my favs, too! And Obsidian gets some nice moments next ish, so let me know what you think! I appreciate the kind words, UDC! Thanks for reading, and for the feedback!
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Post by l1701e on Jan 31, 2008 13:11:48 GMT -5
About time!
You know, call me crazy, but I think something is up with Ted Grant's fate here. Something about doesn't seem quite right...after all, Grant did have something special in the comics...
Ted: I can dance, I can sing, I can do the Highland fling...
Also, I got a funny feeling who "Starman" is here.
"Starman": WHO TOLD HIM?!
Solomon Grundy: Solomon Grundy kinda dropped the ball there...
Tigress: Oh, it's not like he can't figure it out for himself!
I was looking forward to this, and I loved it! I can't wait for more!
Only one thing...WHEN ARE YOU GUYS GONNA UPDATE THE OTHER JSA TITLE?!
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Post by Alex on Jan 31, 2008 14:30:02 GMT -5
This took me by surprise. I truly did not know that DC2 was going to have an on-going JSA title. You would think that something this big would have months of hype and solicitation behind it. You really dropped the ball on that Dave. Anyway, thanks for writing a very entertaining and accessible story. I didn't read any of the other JSA stories on this site and I didn't get the feeling like I had to in order to understand what was going on. Also, being a total newbie to the JSA, i also didn't get the feeling that i had to be uber-familiar with JSA history to get it either. Most fan-fic writers assume that their readers have a familiarity with the characters they are writing about and it makes it hard to get into their stories for someone who doesn't know much. I dont know if you did that intentionally, but I'm glad it came out that way. Like Riz, I got that Geoff Johns feeling reading this issue, which isn't a bad thing, since the only JSA comics i have ever read are from the current series. I wonder how it will differ from it (hopefully starting by not brining in an AU Supes onto the team). Anyway, thanks again. Alex
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Post by David on Jan 31, 2008 18:03:14 GMT -5
About time! You know, call me crazy, but I think something is up with Ted Grant's fate here. Something about doesn't seem quite right...after all, Grant did have something special in the comics... By Jove, I think you're onto something...! LOL! You give the most novel feedback, l1701e--- not to mention the funniest. Why thank you very much! Glad you liked it, sir; in one month, you'll have some more ;D. Great question. Actually, I was thinking about reformatting the Golden Age title as a back-up feature in Justice Society of America. I will post news in this column when I make a decision!
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Post by David on Jan 31, 2008 18:17:09 GMT -5
This took me by surprise. I truly did not know that DC2 was going to have an on-going JSA title. You would think that something this big would have months of hype and solicitation behind it. You really dropped the ball on that Dave. You're right, Alex, I really should have mentioned this... ;D You're welcome. And thank you very much for reading it! This was definately a concern for me; I think continuity should add depth to a story, and not weigh it down. I tried very hard to make JSA accessible to first-timers, and at the same time reward those who've been around for a while. Glad it worked for you! As a newbie, I really appreciate you taking the time to read this issue! But, as a JSA newbie, may I ask: what drew you to read it? I can live with the comparison ( ), but I hope you will find this title has a voice all its own. If AU means "Animated Universe", then no, no plans in that direction. I promise that when this Superman shows up in JSA, it will totally make sense, and be unrelated to what Johns is doing with the KC Kal-El. Thank you! Appreciate the feedback
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Post by starlord on Jan 31, 2008 20:09:11 GMT -5
THE MAN IS BACK!!!!
And what a powerful and extremley entertaining beginning. I wish I hadn't read everyone elses comments before I write this, but as I did, some of this is going to sound familiar.
First, I love this line-up, and couldn't be happier that Hawkman is once again in charge. My interest in the Hawks and the history of Thanagar bloomed three years ago when I read David's Hawkman series. When you've got a writer who is passionate about who they are writing about, it's easy to be drawn in.
The entrance of Gentleman Ghost was one of my favorite moments. Poor Monocle!
Ted was a shock, but I'm thinking along the same lines as another reader, so I quickly recovered from it.
In the end, there is no team, IMHO, that is greater than the Justice Society of America. They were the first, and the best! The fact that DC2's is being written by one of DC2's top writers, makes it an event that I have been waiting for, for quite a while.
The cover and interior work was amazing, and hats off to both artists for some top notch work in both pencils, inks, and colors.
As for any comparison to Mr. Johns. Well, I guess there are some similarities, but I don't see that many. What I see are two different writers who's style and love for these characters make me want to come back and read more and more of them.
But the best part: Mr. Charlton is back on a monthly basis! WOO HOO!
5 stars!
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Post by David on Jan 31, 2008 23:32:18 GMT -5
THE MAN IS BACK!!!! And what a powerful and extremley entertaining beginning. Thank you for saying so, sir! Very glad you enjoyed it. Ha! Glad you liked it! Maybe one day I will post the lost Golden Age Hawkman story called "One Night at Bleakhill Manor" featuring the DC2 origin of the Gentleman Ghost... I know the end of that scene overshadows the beginning of it, but I just want to say also I love the interaction between Wildcat and Atomika. Anyone wonder how Jo is gonna react to developments...? Thanks a lot for the vote of confidence, sir. I will try not to let you down. One thing I do want to address is the Fourth Reich subplot; I thought this was a neat idea that Johns really didn't take full advantage of. Now, I had always had this particular storyline in mind prior to the debut of DC's recent JSA incarnation, but there are a few elements that are too good not to use: the Baroness Blitzkreig for one! Stay tuned for more news on Project Herrenvolk! ;D It's good to be back! Thanks for reading, B., and for the feedback!
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The Shadow
New Member
What Darkness Lurks in the Hearts of Men? The Shadow Knows!
Posts: 27
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Post by The Shadow on Feb 1, 2008 12:03:53 GMT -5
Well I have some mixed feelings but overall this was a fun issue to read. The opening chapter with the villains was well written and fit very well. I thought the chapter with Wildcat was a little choppy and seemed forced, but the rest of the chapters were well written. I admit I'm confused on who some of the females heroes are. Maybe I missed something, but is Jesse named Cyclone? I couldn't tell. I also was looking for Obsidian since he's on the cover. Overall though I don't want to give the impression of negativity because I certainly liked the issue and will be reading the next one when it comes out. The ending didn;t quite have as much of a shock for me since I didn't read the story where Starman was killed, but I did think the part with Ragdoll and Hourman makes for a solid and tense cliffhang. The Cover was very well done too. I'm becoming very impressed by the level of talent the artists on this site have.
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Post by David on Feb 1, 2008 12:36:26 GMT -5
Well I have some mixed feelings but overall this was a fun issue to read. The opening chapter with the villains was well written and fit very well. I thought the chapter with Wildcat was a little choppy and seemed forced, but the rest of the chapters were well written. I admit I'm confused on who some of the females heroes are. Maybe I missed something, but is Jesse named Cyclone? I couldn't tell. I also was looking for Obsidian since he's on the cover. Overall though I don't want to give the impression of negativity because I certainly liked the issue and will be reading the next one when it comes out. The ending didn;t quite have as much of a shock for me since I didn't read the story where Starman was killed, but I did think the part with Ragdoll and Hourman makes for a solid and tense cliffhang. The Cover was very well done too. I'm becoming very impressed by the level of talent the artists on this site have. Some good points here, Shadow. First, thank you for reading, and for the feedback! Jesse Chambers is indeed the speedster called Cyclone--- in perhaps an unnecessary change from DCU canon (I just think Jesse Quick sounds silly). Obsidian is around, and you will see more of him next issue--- he and the Shade have a very significant encounter! For more backstory on the younger members of the team, check out All-Star Comics Annual #1! Also, FYI, the original Starman died in the recent "Justice League Vs. America" continuity-wide crossover last summer (an excellent read, highly reccommended), which is why, of course, the appearance of a Starman at the end is so shocking to the team! Glad you liked the Hourman/Ragdoll scene--- I wanted to show the reader just how depraved that character can be (as per his wonderful reinvention by James Robinson and Gail Simone). As for our wonderful artists--- talented pros, every last one of them. They should all of them be paid for this work! If it wasn't... you know--- illegal! Looking forward to having you back next month!
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RocketeerZ
Staff
Don't look at me, it was broken when I got here.
Posts: 379
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Post by RocketeerZ on Feb 1, 2008 15:47:25 GMT -5
Really? What gave it away (if you don't mind my asking)? No problem. Right here directly from the story: “You were such good friends with my mother and father…”
Ted Grant froze. “Your mother…?” With a horrified start, he realized who she was. It was like he was looking back through time: she had the same graceful, athletic body that her mother had, always poised on the verge of exploding into action…
“Artemis---!” But whatever else he had to say was cut off.Mainly it was the reaction Ted had... he didn't have to ask who her mother and father were which made it a personal connection more than a simple "my old bad guy's kid is looking to make a name for herself" reaction. Plus, he knew her real name. As to the death... Am I really fooling anyone here? If so, good! He's dead! Dead like Jason Todd! And Bucky! And will definately not be back next issue... Around page 9 or so... I swear it... LOL! You know, I didn't even consider the old "9 lives" thing that Wildcat had going... hmmm.... so Ted may NOT be DEAD dead? Hmmm.. Thanks, Pat! I really appreciate your enthusiasm about this titleand promise to give you a helluva ride for your thirty day wait! You're welcome! Great beginning and I'm sure this will be a great ride!
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Post by arcalian on Feb 1, 2008 23:56:33 GMT -5
So I'm coming home Lost on a road I don't belong I'll rest my song I'm so alone Far from the streets I call my own
So I'm coming home Back to a world left long ago And now I know I'm coming home I'll find my way back I'm letting go I'm coming home
--Coming Home by Alter Bridge
The man has come home.
The Titans are my first love, obviously. But I do prefer the Society to the League. I guess it's kinda like prerferring Captain Marvel to Superman.
The villains council of war was very well done, but I rather think they didn't take long enough on the sneaking up on their enemies department. Ted might disagree, of course.
I think the Shade feels the same as the Monacle, but is smarter about it, and will pull the plug when the time is right.
Yeah, Wildcat had a very Star Wars moment there, and im sure it will have long term implications once Wildcat "Feels better". Heh.
Looking forward to seeing more of Alan and the Ray, who are "my boys" here.
Fun!
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Post by Alex on Feb 3, 2008 0:08:35 GMT -5
As a newbie, I really appreciate you taking the time to read this issue! But, as a JSA newbie, may I ask: what drew you to read it? I tend to check out new stuff if an author is passionate about it. I find it usually makes for a good read. Besides picking up all of the subtle hints about the debut of this book, I kinda picked up this cryptic vibe that you might be a fan of the JSA, so I decided to give it a try. AU was supposed to mean Alternate Universe. I should've been more specific. I also forgot to give props to the artist. Great Job!
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Post by David on Feb 3, 2008 1:45:26 GMT -5
Really? What gave it away (if you don't mind my asking)? No problem. Right here directly from the story: “You were such good friends with my mother and father…”
Ted Grant froze. “Your mother…?” With a horrified start, he realized who she was. It was like he was looking back through time: she had the same graceful, athletic body that her mother had, always poised on the verge of exploding into action…
“Artemis---!” But whatever else he had to say was cut off.Mainly it was the reaction Ted had... he didn't have to ask who her mother and father were which made it a personal connection more than a simple "my old bad guy's kid is looking to make a name for herself" reaction. Plus, he knew her real name. Great beginning and I'm sure this will be a great ride! Thanks for the reply, Pat! I appreciate you taking the time!
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Post by David on Feb 3, 2008 1:47:38 GMT -5
As a newbie, I really appreciate you taking the time to read this issue! But, as a JSA newbie, may I ask: what drew you to read it? I tend to check out new stuff if an author is passionate about it. I find it usually makes for a good read. Besides picking up all of the subtle hints about the debut of this book, I kinda picked up this cryptic vibe that you might be a fan of the JSA, so I decided to give it a try. LOL! Thanks for replying, Alex!
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Post by David on Feb 3, 2008 2:02:13 GMT -5
So I'm coming home Lost on a road I don't belong I'll rest my song I'm so alone Far from the streets I call my own So I'm coming home Back to a world left long ago And now I know I'm coming home I'll find my way back I'm letting go I'm coming home --Coming Home by Alter Bridge The man has come home. Whoever said you can't go home again, never heard about the DC2...! Great to be back in the bullpen! The company has never been better around here! These are very direct villains. No messing around, get right to the smashing. Plus, the Wizard has been laying his plans for years--- he's ready to go! No doubt! Artemis has probably been planning this for years as well! BTW, I thought this was more reasonable an in-continuity development than the introduction of a new character (i.e., Tommy Bronson). One thing about the Shade is, he plays his own game. Me too! I have some fun stuff planned for the Ray, especially; glad to hear he's got another big fan! Thanks for reading, Jay, and for the feedback!
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Post by l1701e on Feb 3, 2008 22:14:16 GMT -5
One thing about the Shade is, he plays his own game. You guys... do have James Robinson's permission to use the Shade, right? I mean, DC pretty much gave him Shade after that Starman series. You guys do have his okay...right? ...This site's so getting sued...
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Post by David on Feb 4, 2008 19:13:27 GMT -5
One thing about the Shade is, he plays his own game. You guys... do have James Robinson's permission to use the Shade, right? I mean, DC pretty much gave him Shade after that Starman series. You guys do have his okay...right? ...This site's so getting sued... Robinson can direct all correspondence to my legal counsel at HoM, Burchette and Elbe, Belle Reve, LA.
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Post by UltimateDC on Feb 4, 2008 19:32:15 GMT -5
I hope the new Starman is the new Starman from the comics. I know it's not going to be, but I can dream, can't I?
Sloppy Joes!
-UDC
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Post by jayrow75 on Feb 5, 2008 16:36:39 GMT -5
Wow. I am truly excited. Geoff Johns' JSA is the best book on the stands. This is very easily # 2. I loved it. The mix of old and new is a JSA staple. Wildcat's death sealed the deal for me. While I have lots of respect for Ted, I am very happy to see him passing on. Rick Tyler is going to tear Ragdoll a new one. Well, maybe not-but it should get Rick in Hourman mode. I really enjoyed the bits with new Injustice baddies. I am also glad I am getting in on the ground floor of this one and not having to play catch-up. I'll be back for Issues 2,3,4,5,6,7,8,9,etc. Jay
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Post by David on Feb 5, 2008 17:12:28 GMT -5
I hope the new Starman is the new Starman from the comics. I know it's not going to be, but I can dream, can't I? Sloppy Joes! -UDC Crazy dreamers...
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