STUN!

Comic talk with Patrick Brower

Thu, 30 Aug 2007 22:02:00 -0600

THIS WEEK: Tony Daniel (Flash, Batman) was supposed to be on this week, but a bad phone connection prevented it from happening. The interview will be rescheduled shortly! In his stead is the always-capable Patrick Brower, General Manager of Graham Crackers Comics in Chicago's Loop and Executive Producer of "STUN!" Dirty laundry is aired as James VanOsdol rails on companies and creators who've completely blown "STUN" off since its inception almost a year ago. Also discussed are the highs and lows of Wizard World Chicago, current comics worth reading, and current comics worth trashing. This podcast was recorded live to the internet, warts and all for you to enjoy. Thanks for listening, JVO stunpodcast@yahoo.com

SHAZAM! talk with the expert, Walt Grogan

Mon, 27 Aug 2007 22:20:00 -0600

THIS WEEK: STUN! is back and talking with Walt Grogan, webmaster of the superb fan site MarvelFamily.com. Walt is to Captain Marvel what Roy Thomas is to the rest of the Golden Age of comics. Walt's an expert on all things "Big Red Cheese," from Billy Batson and Black Adam to Mr. Tawky Tawny. Walt talks about why we should be optimistic about a Shazam movie, scornful of Keith Giffen, and respectful of Jerry Ordway. "Trials of Shazam?" It got mentioned, but it really goes without saying how bad that title was. A pox on your house, Judd Winick.

STUN! The fill-in episode with Jaime Black!

Thu, 09 Aug 2007 11:30:00 -0600

THIS WEEK: Jaime Black fills in for regular show host James VanOsdol, who's fixing his computer after it was hacked by the Calculator. Black reviews new books on the shelves from a number of publishers, including Marvel's The Hood hardcover, DC's 52 Volume 2, Vertigo's Scalped Volume 1, Wildstorm's Midnighter #10, Avatar's Doktor Sleepless #1, and Image's The Astonishing Wolfman issues #1 and #2. Thanks for your patience during "STUN"s downtime! More to come. Promise.

Joe Caramagna

Wed, 27 Jun 2007 19:50:00 -0600

THIS WEEK: As a comic letterer, you've seen his fancy fontwork on dozens of Marvel books, including a fairly under-discussed book called Captain America #25. Caramagna's also a professional writer (co-creator of "Model Operandi") and inker whose star is on the rise. The tall drink of water (6'2", according to his MySpace profile) talks this week about lettering, the benefits of the Kubert School, "Model Operandi," "7 Days to Fame," and more!

Wizard World Philadelphia recap with Patrick Brower

Thu, 21 Jun 2007 17:11:00 -0600

THIS WEEK: "It seemed small. It felt small." -Patrick Brower on Wizard World Philadelphia "STUN" Executive Producer Patrick Brower returned from Wizard World Philadelphia with a complete rundown of this year's (lackluster) convention. As "STUN" listened to Patrick's report, we couldn't help but wonder...in a day and age when you can buy commissions and original art direct from the artists and key issues straight from places like Ebay and grahamcrakers.com, is it all that necessary to even attend cons? "STUN" thinks that any alternative to paying for parking, getting crammed into a space with hundreds of sweaty fans over a hot summer weekend, and seeing Lou Ferrigno's career in rapid freefall from close up is worth investigating. True, not going to a convention means you don't get to hear hilarious creator interplay on panels or have the opportunity to dress as the Scarlet Witch for all to see, but...

White Picket Fences follow-up with Matt Anderson

Fri, 15 Jun 2007 09:55:00 -0600

THIS WEEK: We follow up with Matt Anderson, co-creator of the fantastic "White Picket Fences" mini from Ape. We learn whether his expectations were met when the title was released, what's in store for he and "White Picket Fences" in the future, and how an independent book should be marketed. This is a rare chance to follow the paths of a creator and a new title from the very beginning, and STUN! is thrilled to offer the play-by-play.

Blue Oyster Cult's Eric Bloom!

Sat, 09 Jun 2007 21:02:00 -0600

THIS WEEK: Because "STUN" needed "more cowbell"... Consider "STUN" humbled and awed by the fact that Eric Bloom of Blue Oyster Cult wanted to be part of the show. For 35 years, Blue Oyster Cult has occupied a unique and exclusive position in rock history; that of being a smart and literate hard rock band whose transparent love of science fiction and the paranormal helped define their sound and image. And speaking of image, the "Kronos" hook-and-cross symbol has just gotta be one of rock's coolest icons ever. "STUN" spent most of its junior high and high school years scribbling it onto notebooks and carving it into wooden desktops. Of course, Blue Oyster Cult secured their place in history by writing one of the greatest rock and roll songs of all time ("Don't Fear the Reaper," natch). Going beyond "Reaper," there are the riffs...those fist-pumping guitar sounds that provide the backbone to B.O.C. standards like "E.T.I.," "Godzilla," and "Cities on Flame." "STUN" is equally excited by Blue Oyster Cult songs whose lyrics tell stories with great, thought-provoking images. See "Veteran of the Psychic Wars," "Astronomy," and "Transmaniacon M.C." for further study. Blue Oyster Cult will be all over the U.S. this summer. If you happen to be in range of the "STUN" studios in the Chicago area, B.O.C. will be at the Naperville Ribfest on 7/1 and doing a handful of dates in Wisconsin (including Summerfest). Bloom talked with "STUN" about the band's longevity, science fiction, Doctor Strange, current reads, and that "SNL" sketch that brought the band to the top of the 21st century pop culture buzz phrase elite. Also this week: Executive Producer Patrick Brower, General Manager of Graham Crackers Comics in Chicago's Loop, gives a retail update. Is "Countdown" selling like "52?" Are people excited about the post-"Civil War" Marvel Universe? Booster Gold? World War Hulk? Thanks for listening! Feedback: stunpodcast@yahoo.com

Norm Breyfogle

Mon, 04 Jun 2007 12:03:00 -0600

THIS WEEK: Though Batman's been around for almost 70 years, the list of artists who helped define him is shockingly small: Neal Adams. Jim Aparo. Marshall Rogers. Add to the list one Norm Breyfogle, whose work on Detective, Batman, and Shadow of the Bat stands as some of the best Batman storytelling of the past 25 years (with extra special credit going to Breyfogle's frequent collaborator, writer Alan Grant). Breyfogle's broad list of credits also includes "Prime" for the Malibu Ultraverse and the criminally underrated "Hellcat" mini for Marvel. STUN! is a huge fan of Norm's and remains perplexed as to why the "big two" aren't stumbling over themselves to give him work. STUN! has a fantasy of Norm Breyfogle doing more Batman work with Alan Grant and "Shadowpact" with Bill Willingham for D.C. and "Doctor Strange" with Brian K. Vaughan over at Marvel. One can dream. Breyfogle talks this week about Batman, working with Alan Grant, and the sad reality of work drying up for him at the onset of the 21st century. Go to Norm's website to learn more (and buy some of his art while you're there, too)!: http://www.normbreyfogle.com

Chris Mitten ("Wasteland" artist)

Tue, 29 May 2007 11:38:00 -0600

THIS WEEK: "Wasteland" is one of those books you might've seen, but chose to pass up in favor of another overblown, commerce over art, weekly or monthly superhero title. Next time you visit your local comic book shop, "STUN!" urges you to reconsider. The post-apocalyptic (or post-"Big Wet," if you prefer) title presents a tense, broadly-conceived, and darkly-imagined America. Writer Antony Johnston has come up with some big ideas, and Illinois artist Chris Mitten has provided indelible images to back them up. This week on the show, "STUN!" talks with Mitten about "Wasteland," his technique, and the not-so-subtle music fandom behind "Wasteland." For those new to the title, Oni Press has the first issue available for free download: http://www.onipress.com/thebigwet/downloads/freeissue1.php Also: Jaime Black with another "One Shot Review!"

The Hero Initiative

Thu, 17 May 2007 09:56:00 -0600

THIS WEEK: Jim McLauchlin, President of the Hero Initiative, checks in to talk about what the organization does, who it helps, and how you can help. Try not to tear up as he shares the stories of two creators who've benefitted from Hero's work. To donate or learn more: http://www.heroinitiative.org

Alex Ross from the Archives (2000)!

Mon, 07 May 2007 15:25:00 -0600

THIS WEEK: For one of my first comic creator interviews, I went straight to the A-List by inviting Alex Ross into the studio. I don't like to be reminded how I acted seven days ago, so having to listen to an interview I did seven years ago almost made me cough blood. Ignoring that, I do realize that this very rarely-heard conversation is a nice archival piece featuring one of the industry's most respected artists. Also on the show: Correspondent Jaime Black with another "One Shot Review." This week he reviews one of the higher-profile books from Free Comic Book Day.

Spider-Man 3 Reviewed!

Sat, 05 May 2007 00:15:00 -0600

THIS WEEK: James VanOsdol and Executive Producer Patrick Brower review "Spider-Man 3," the first big blockbuster of 2007. Is it worth the money? Does it hold up to the franchise? Does Venom's appearance live up to fanboy expectations? Well...no. James and Patrick hated it. Find out why in this unedited, live-to-internet, Friday morning quarterback, review.

The Return of Tony Akins!

Fri, 27 Apr 2007 11:29:00 -0600

THIS WEEK: Tony Akins, artist for the Eisner-nominated "Jack of Fables," returns to the studio for another lengthy go-round on "STUN!" Joining me in the studio to co-host this week is Executive Producer Patrick Brower, industry-respected General Manager of the downtown Chicago location of Graham Crackers Comics. Akins talks about Jack of Fables, the Zeus-like Bill Willingham, science fiction, inspiration, and his past as a military man. In addition, Patrick brought in a stack of books for me the night we recorded the show because I'd been a couple weeks behind in my reading (weeks 49 & 50, to you "52" enthusiasts). He and I went book by book, making unreasonable and sweeping criticisms of each, while Tony politely bit his lip (and chimed in on occasion to praise the likes of Frank Quitely and Mike Allred). Akins is a favorite guest of "STUN!" Listen or download now...

Cecil Castellucci

Wed, 25 Apr 2007 12:21:00 -0600

THIS WEEK: Cecil Castellucci, the well-known author and writer of "The P.L.A.I.N. Janes," checks in on the phone to talk about the new MINX release, playing in a band, transitioning from prose to graphic novels, and lots more. "The P.L.A.I.N. Janes" is only a couple weeks away from arriving on shelves and is a must-read. Get ahead of the curve here!

Scott McCloud

Tue, 17 Apr 2007 00:24:00 -0600

THIS WEEK: If there is such a thing as a sequential art scholar, Scott McCloud is more than worthy of the title. The man who made the art of comic storytelling engaging, entertaining, and academic in books like "Understanding Comics" and the recent "Making Comics" checked in from his marathon 50-state book tour. McCloud continues to cross the states like a Presidential candidate, shaking hands and kissing babies along the way. Don't miss him--for updates, go to http://www.scottmccloud.com!

Kaare Andrews

Tue, 10 Apr 2007 04:32:00 -0600

THIS WEEK: Creator Kaare Andrews talks about the just-concluded "Spider-Man: Reign," his career, and your Friendly Neighborhood Spider-Man. Production note: The interview was recorded during the last week of March. When Kaare says that the "Reign" TPB is coming out in April, it's not that he's calendar-illiterate; it's that the host of "Stun" is slow-to-publish. Also on the show, Jaime Black with another "One Shot Review." This week: Oni Press's "Local."

Jimmy Palmiotti

Mon, 13 Nov 2006 09:13:00 -0600

THIS WEEK: Palmiotti talks about Jonah Hex, Heroes for Hire, Terra, and Uncle Sam and the Freedom Fighters, as well as a few industry things that make him cranky. Also on the show: Executive Producer Patrick Brower from Graham Crackers Comics in Chicago gives a retail update.

Tony Akins

Wed, 03 Jan 2007 22:01:00 -0600

THIS WEEK: The artist for Vertigo’s superb “Jack of Fables” joined me in the studio to talk about everything from the failed comics companies he worked for in the ’90s through the Fables universe. Akins is a lively, fun, and intelligent guest–great listening for even the non-comics fan!

Tim Seeley

Mon, 04 Dec 2006 19:07:00 -0600

THIS WEEK: Tim Seeley stopped by the studio for an interview about “Hack/Slash,” Jesus, “How to Be a Comic Book Artist,” and nice guys finishing first. I also explain to Executive Producer Patrick Brower the reason why legendary artist Neal Adams will never be a guest on the show.

Timothy Truman

Sat, 16 Dec 2006 16:27:00 -0600

THIS WEEK: Timothy Truman talks about Conan, the Grateful Dead, Grimjack, and a deep love for pulp fiction–specifically Robert E. Howard. Also: correspondent Jaime Black offers up a “One-Shot Review” of the new Kevin Smith TPB.

The "White Picket Fences" creative team

Mon, 02 Apr 2007 16:00:00 -0600

THIS WEEK: Matt Anderson, Micah Farritor, and Eric Hutchins, the creators of Ape Entertainment's "White Picket Fences," joined me in the studio to talk about how they got the book published, where the ideas came from, and what readers can expect. Get in on the ground floor of this great new indie book here!

Sal Abbinanti

Mon, 06 Nov 2006 16:47:00 -0600

THIS WEEK: The gregarious and entertaining Sal Abbinanti joined me in the studio to talk about the pros and cons of self-publishing, “Atomika: God is Red,” and why Luke Cage is Marvel’s coolest property.

T.J. from Spitalfield

Mon, 25 Dec 2006 19:36:00 -0600

THIS WEEK: T.J. from Spitalfield (Victory Records) joined me in the studio to talk about being a letter hack, “Walking Dead,” “Civil War,” and the merits of ’90s-era Image Comics. Also: Executive Producer/Graham Crackers Comics General Manager Patrick Brower gives a retail preview for 2007.

Brad Meltzer

Mon, 20 Nov 2006 17:49:00 -0600

THIS WEEK: Best-selling author and “Justice League of America” scribe Brad Meltzer checks in via phone for the Thanksgiving week edition. Also: Jaime Black with a 60-second “One Shot Review.”

Skottie Young

Mon, 27 Nov 2006 20:15:00 -0600

THIS WEEK: A super-hero for a new generation of comic art admirers, Skottie Young joined me in the studio to talk about how he broke in, Spider-Clan, New Warriors, and his new haircut.

Chris Claremont from the archives (7/10/00)

Thu, 29 Mar 2007 22:00:00 -0600

Back in July, 2000 I had legendary X-Men writer Chris Claremont on the air with me on the eve of the first X-Men movie arriving in theaters. I was going through some old archive boxes and was ecstatic to find this interview tucked safely away on an old DAT. Here, for the first time in seven years, is a chance to hear Claremont talk about the enduring success of Marvel's mutants and his thoughts on the then-new X-Men movie franchise.

Convention Talk with Patrick Brower

Mon, 05 Mar 2007 20:15:00 -0600

THIS WEEK: STUN Executive Producer (and General Manager of Graham Crackers Comics) Patrick Brower stops by the studio to discuss the comics convention circuit, specifically the recent New York Comicon. Brower also talks about his upcoming inking project, “The Mas********,” which will appear in a TROMA graphic novel this summer! Also, this episode wasn't edited. Not even a little. STUN reserves the right to be lazy.

Ed Brubaker

Fri, 20 Oct 2006 14:49:00 -0600

THIS WEEK: Joining me for Episode Two is prolific writer Ed Brubaker, the man behind Captain America, Daredevil, and Criminal. He also talks a bit about his upcoming project, the Immortal Iron Fist. Also: Patrick Brower, General Manager of Graham Crackers Comics, stops by to talk about what's happening on the racks.

Marv Wolfman

Mon, 05 Feb 2007 12:22:00 -0600

THIS WEEK: New Teen Titans. Crisis on Infinite Earths. Nightwing. Nova. Marv Wolfman is an award-winning writer whose fingerprints remain all over the “big two” universes. These days, he’s writing the monthly adventures of Nightwing, a fan-pleasing return to a character he helped create. Marv checked in over the phone to talk about Nightwing, “The Judas Contract” DVD, and other pertinent stuff. Also on the show, a visit with Executive Producer Patrick Brower in his day job as General Manager of Graham Crackers Comics in Chicago’s Loop. Patrick runs down current back issue values of key Wolfman books.

Steve "THE DUDE" Rude

Mon, 19 Feb 2007 23:43:00 -0600

THIS WEEK: I wear my fandom on my sleeve this week as I interview Steve Rude, a guy whose work reminds most of us why we fell in love with comic books in the first place. The comic business being what it is, Steve decided to take control of his future with the launch of Rude Dude Productions. Over the course of a near-30 minute chat, Rude talks about the industry, Rude Dude, his beloved creations Nexus and the Moth, and Vincent Furnier.