Brian Michael Bendis News

This post relates to: Jim Cheung, Brian Michael Bendis, Queen Veranke, Secret Invasion, Skrulls, The New Avengers

Are You Ready For This?

This post relates to: Tim Sale, Brian Michael Bendis, Mike Mckone, C.B. Cebulski

GUEST ANNOUNCEMENTS AND MORE!

 

The countdown has begun! In just under two weeks, the 9th annual Baltimore Comic-Con kicks off, starting Saturday, September 27th! Do you have your tickets yet?

We've spent the past few months telling you about our guests, exclusives, vendors, and exhibitors, and we're not done yet!

Guests
We've announced guests from all walks of the industry already, including stars such as Brian Michael Bendis, Jeff Kinney, Jim Lee, Bernie Wrightson, Tim Sale, Darwyn Cooke, Mike Mignola, Steve Dillon, Guy Davis, and Geoff Johns, just to name a handful.

We regret to announce a few cancellations: David Finch (whose wife is having a baby), Gene Colan (back problems), John Romita Sr. (conflict), and Mike Grell (conflict) are unable to attend this year.

But don't despair! The Baltimore Comic-Con is proud to welcome Mike McKone (Fantastic Four, Green Lantern), C.B.Cebulski (X-Men: Divided We Stand, Avengers Fairy Tales), Dan Slott (Amazing Spider-Man, Avengers: The Initiative), Tom Brevoort (Marvel Comics editor), Walt Simonson (Thor, Fantastic Four), Bernard Chang (Wonder Woman, The Rules of The Game), Sean Chen (Iron Man, Salvation Run), Mike Hawthorne (Salem, American Splendor), Paul Storrie (Worlds of Dungeons & Dragons, Star Trek: Aliens), Nelson Blake II (G.I. Joe, The Ride), Jamal Igle (Superman's Reign, Supergirl), Greg LaRocque (Power Man and Iron Fist, Marvel Team-Up), Afua Richardson (Pilot Season: Genius), Richard Starkings (Elephantmen), Andy MacDonald (NYC Mech), and Allison Sohn (Star Wars trading card artist).

"What an unbelievable group!" beamed show promoter Marc Nathan. "Mike McKone will be over from England for his first trip to our show. It's always great to have Walt, Bernard, Sean, Paul, Mike, Andy, and the Marvel gang in as well. We'll see some more new faces in Nelson, Afua, and Jamal (who had to cancel last year), and Greg and Allison are back too! Where are we going to put them all?!"

Floor Space
The 2008 Baltimore Comic-Con is sold out all of the available floor space for Artist's Alley, Exhibitors, and Retailers! We've got a full house this year, so whether you're coming to see your favorite creators, the latest publishing has to offer, or to find those issues or items missing from your collection, you're bound to leave satisfied!

Tickets are Still Available!
Though we don't have any more room for the people behind the tables, don't worry! We have plenty of room for you! If you haven't already, you can purchase tickets via our website at http://www.comicon.com/baltimore/tickets.htm for the weekend, or each day individually. Tickets will also be available each day at the show.

Harvey Tickets Available Now!
We are pleased to announce that Brian Michael Bendis will be joining us as our keynote speaker.  This year's gift bag, which the first 200 attendees will receive, includes The MAD Archives vol. 1 from DC Comics, Diary of a Wimpy Kid from Amulet Books, an imprint of Harry N. Abrams, Inc., Beowulf Trade Paperback, based on the screenplay by Neil Gaiman and Roger Avary from IDW, Creator Chronicles Preview DVD Featuring Michael Golden from Woodcrest Productions and Eva Ink, Stephen King's Dark Tower : The Gunslinger Born, courtesy of Cards, Comics and Collectibles & The Baltimore Comic-Con, a Toon Tumbler drinking glass from Popfun merchandising, and an exclusive Harvey Awards keychain from LaserMach.

Tickets will only be on sale through Wednesday, September 24th, and can be purchased with a major credit card by calling Cards, Comics & Collectibles in Reistertown, Maryland at (410) 526-7410.

This post relates to: Mark Brooks, Aron Eli Coleite, Stuart Immonen, Brian Michael Bendis, Ultimate X-Men, Ultimate Spider-Man

Here's some more previews for comics coming out this week from Marvel.

Ultimate Spider-Man #125

Review: Ultimate Beetle was my favorite part?

It's been how many issues now since Mark Bagley left?  I'm still feeling his absence.  I don't have anything against Stuart Immonen's art.  I just really miss the clear...perfection of Bagley's art.  Immonen's art sometimes seems a little inconsistent.  Venom actually looks a little humorous when he's eating a person.  I don't think that's really intentional.  At least Justin Ponsor's colors adds some shine to it.

I'm also not so sure about the return of Ultimate Venom.  His first appearance in the Ultimate universe was such a big deal at the time.  Thankfully, Bendis didn't go the easy route and keep using him to add to the sales.  What bothers me now is how helpless he seems.  Actually I suppose it's Eddie that seems weak. 

We see more of Ultimate Beetle here.  You have to wonder who this guy is.  He seems far from the Beetle we all know.  His appearance in this issue is one of the few things that I really liked.  The other was the last page.  It wasn't what I expected.  That one page is making me really look forward to the next issue. 

Hopefully Ultimate Spider-Man will get out of the little slump it feels like it's in.  It's been one of my favorite titles but lately it's been slipping.

3.5 out of 5

The War of the Symbiotes rages on - and the next victim may be Spider-Man himself! The high-flying Beetle has sliced off a tentacle of the slavering symbiote called Venom - but what does he want with it? Howling in pain, Venom gives chase to his tormentor through the streets of Manhattan, catching the attention of a certain wall-crawler. And when all three combatants come together, what occurs is so shocking, so unexpected, it could only happen in the book in which anything can happen!

Ultimate X-Men #97

Review:  "Oooh, Ultimate Professor X is a jerk too"

Professor X just never gets a break.  He's always being portrayed as doing things of a jerky nature.  He has to be like the sleaziest guy around.  It's amazing that he gets any respect.  Guess he can always alter people's minds to think of him as a charming fellow.

The great thing about the Ultimate universe is you never know what's going to happen.  I like that.  Sure there's been some things I wasn't too crazy about.  This recent "Absolute Power" storyline brought Ultimate X-Men back up towards the top of my reading list.  The concept of the Banshee drug and that it was derived from Wolverine has been interesting.  Check out the preview page with Professor X using it.  This also ties into the recent Ultimate Origins.  That's a nice touch.  There's even mention of Ultimate Wolverine Vs Hulk.  We are supposed to be seeing that soon.

I wonder what is going to happen to Colossus after this issue.  Things don't look too good for him.  The other X-Men will have to deal with the possible addiction to Banshee.  Surprisingly we even get a confirmation on who Colossus' supplier is. 

I'm not sure what the next arc will be but I like where Ultimate X-Men is going right now.  Aron E. Coleite and Mark Brooks have been refreshing.
4 out of 5

This post relates to: Brian Michael Bendis, Leinil Francis Yu, Secret Invasion, Secret Invasion

Secret Invasion #3 Invades Comic Shops With Third Printing Sketch Variant

Surprise surprise, another issue sells out.  I have to say it is a nice cover.  There's something about being able to see the artwork in it's pure pencil form.  I do enjoy the inks and colors but black and white does have that artistic look.  That's the good thing about these sell outs, in my opinion.  A chance for us to be able to see the sketch versions of the art.

The comic book blockbuster event of the summer, Secret Invasion, continues to have everyone asking, “Who do you trust?” Marvel is pleased to announce that Secret Invasion #3 will have a third printing featuring a black and white Spider-Woman cover by superstar artist Leinil Yu! Join award-winning writer Brian Michael Bendis as he presents Secret Invasion #3 (of 8) Third Printing Variant, as the epic invasion of the century rages on! It’s time for the new graduates of the Initiative to show the world what they’re made of but they aren’t the only new recruits. Nick Fury has returned and with him a batch of fresh faces. Are Nick’s new Secret Warriors enough to push the Skrull horde back into space?

Marvel urges retailers to check their orders on Secret Invasion and all tie-in issues, as they continue to sell out quickly at Diamond! It’s the series you’ve read about everywhere from Entertainment Weekly to The Wall Street Journal—don’t miss Secret Invasion!

SECRET INVASION #3 3rd PRINTING SKETCH VARIANT (JUL088109)
Written by BRIAN MICHAEL BENDIS
Pencils & Cover by LEINIL FRANCIS YU
Rated T+ …$3.99
FOC - 9/4, On-Sale - 9/24/2008

This post relates to: Butch Guice, Brian Michael Bendis, Ultimate Origins

Ultimate Origins #2 Returns With A New Printing!

After the first issue debuted to critical acclaim, Marvel is pleased to announce Ultimate Origins #2 has sold out at Diamond and will return with Ultimate Origins #2 Second Printing Variant! As more secrets are revealed, the demand for this March on Ultimatum tie-in has been staggering! The second issue of the shocking series by superstar team Brian Michael Bendis and Butch Guice, shined light on the origin of everyone’s favorite Ultimate Star-Spangled Avenger, Captain America! Plus, an explosive new cover featuring the interiors of Butch Guice!

James Hunt of ComicBookResources.com raves, “As with the last issue, however, 'Ultimate Origins' is proving itself to be a strong read that expands the history of the Ultimate Universe -- past and present…”

How does Captain America’s transformation from everyday, ordinary guy to super hero affect the very core of the Ultimate U? What is the exact truth behind the Super Soldier Experiment? Make sure not to miss your second chance to find out in Ultimate Origins #2 Second Printing Variant!

Marvel would like to thank retailers for their tremendous support of Ultimate Origins!



ULTIMATE ORIGINS #2 (of 5) SECOND PRINTING VARIANT (MAY088336)
Written by BRIAN MICHAEL BENDIS
Pencils & Cover by BUTCH GUICE
Rated T+ …$2.99
FOC—07/31/08, On-Sale—08/20/08

This post relates to: Ultimate Origins, Brian Michael Bendis

Maybe I read the issue too fast but I can't say that I was overly impressed.  The idea of everything being connected could be interesting.  I just don't know how I feel about things being forced to be connected.   Yes it's written by Brian Michael Bendis who has basically created the entire Universe.  So maybe  he's had this all in mind from the beginning.  Maybe.

It seems others liked it.  What did you think?

“Everything is connected!”

The story that delves into the intricacies and unknown secrets of the Ultimate Universe is here. Superstar writer Brian Michael Bendis nurtures the seeds planted at the Universe’s very inception and sheds light on the secrets that will shake the universe to it’s core in Ultimate Origins #1 (of 5). Complimented by the stunning art from Butch Guice, readers will be on the edge of their seats and wanting more as information regarding the Super Soldier and Weapon X programs are unveiled.
 
The reviews are in and everyone is clamoring about this new series!
 
Brian Joel of IGN.com exclaims, “Ultimate Origins is shaping up to be a damn good time”
 
Dave Wallace of Comicsbulletin.com says “Guice’s realistic style that has worked so well in the pages of Captain America recently is an equally smooth fit for Marvel's Ultimate Universe, grounding the action in a real-world setting and providing a fairly high level of realistic detail without rejecting the more exaggerated qualities of comic book art for the most dynamic sequences.”
 
ComicBookResources.com writer James Hunt says, “Ultimate Origins promises to be a rare thing -- a completely self-contained story that'll have major ramifications.”
 
Continuing to amaze and astound readers, the team of Bendis and Guice unveil the secret history of the Ultimate Universe in this action-packed limited series! How is it all connected? Keep your eyes peeled for upcoming issues of Ultimate Origins, which pave the way for this fall’s massive Ultimatum!
 









ULTIMATE ORIGINS #1 (of 5) (APR082246)
ULTIMATE ORIGINS #1 (of 5) TURNER VARIANT
ULTIMATE ORIGINS #1 (of 5) TURNER VARIANT SKETCH VARIANT
Written by BRIAN MICHAEL BENDIS
Penciled by BUTCH GUICE
50/50 Cover by GABRIELE DELL’OTTO
50/50 Cover by SIMONE BIANCHI
Variant Cover by MICHAEL TURNER
Rated T+ …$2.99
ON SALE NOW!
 
ULTIMATE ORIGINS #2 (of 5) (MAY082255)
ULTIMATE ORIGINS #2 (of 5) DELL’OTTO SKETCH VARIANT (APR088286)
Written by BRIAN MICHAEL BENDIS
Penciled by BUTCH GUICE
50/50 Cover by GABRIELE DELL’OTTO
50/50 Cover by SIMONE BIANCHI
Rated T+ …$2.99
FOC—6/12/08, On-Sale—7/2/08
 

This post relates to: Leinil Francis Yu, Brian Michael Bendis, Skrulls, Secret Invasion

I have to ask, is this really necessary?  How many printings did issue #1 have?  I think at least three.  Doesn't everyone already own a copy?  Are there people willing to pay another five bucks for something they already have or have read?   Yeah the added stuff here is cool.  But I've already read the online prologue.  The variant covers can be seen here, along with the (pretty cool) "Who do you trust?" images.  

This post relates to: Brian Michael Bendis, Jackson Guice, Simone Bianchi, Michael Turner, Gabriele Dell'Otto, Spider-Man, Ultimates, Hulk

Ultimate Universe?  Brian Michael Bendis?  I'm there.

You've been given the 10 reasons why you cannot miss Ultimate Origins. You've seen the gorgeous covers by Simone Bianchi and Gabriele Dell'Otto. You've seen the awesome variant and sketch variant covers by Michael Turner. Now, you can read 6 lettered preview pages of Ultimate Origins #1 to tide you over before you pick up your copy next Wednesday, June 4th.

Ultimate Origins has been everywhere…and why not? As Bruce Banner said to Ultimate Spider-Man -- "Everything's Connected." There have been ads in all your favorite Marvel titles, an ad in Wizard Magazine and postcards in your local comic shops. Plus, some of your favorite comic book fan-sites have had interviews with Bendis, teasing the big reveals and changes to come.

And check Marvel.com next week for an exclusive Brian Michael Bendis podcast where he dishes on Ultimate Origins.

The secrets behind the Ultimate Universe are about to be revealed and they will shock you as the Ultimate Universe continues to March on Ultimatum.

Brian Michael Bendis and Butch Guice reveal the secret history of the Ultimate Universe almost a decade in the making in Ultimate Origins#1!

ULTIMATE ORIGINS #1 (of 5) (APR082246)
Written by BRIAN MICHAEL BENDIS
Penciled by BUTCH GUICE
50/50 Cover by SIMONE BIANCHI
50/50 Cover by GABRIELLE DELL’OTTO
Variant Cover by MICHAEL TURNER
Sketch Variant Cover by MICHAEL TURNER
Rated T+ …$2.99
On-Sale—6/4/08

This post relates to: Butch Guice, Brian Michael Bendis, Wolverine

Let's hope this series will deliver the goods. I'm sure it will. Some of the Ultimate titles have gotten a little weak but Bendis is writing. That's good to know.

 

ULTIMATE ORIGINS #1 (of 5) (APR082246)
ULTIMATE ORIGINS #1 (of 5) TURNER VARIANT (APR082247)
ULTIMATE ORIGINS #1 (of 5) TURNER VARIANT SKETCH VARIANT (MAR088241)
Written by BRIAN MICHAEL BENDIS
Penciled by BUTCH GUICE
50/50 Cover by SIMONE BIANCHI
50/50 Cover by GABRIELLE DELL’OTTO
Variant Cover by MICHAEL TURNER
Rated T+ …$2.99
FOC—5/15/08, On-Sale—6/4/08

This post relates to: Skrulls, Brian Michael Bendis, Leinil Francis Yu, New Avengers, Mighty Avengers

There's no way anyone could be surprised by issue one selling out.  I'm sure Marvel had a nice hefty print run but with all the hype and great word of mouth, people are going to want to snatch this up.  I usually don't like the huge "event" comics so much but this was something.  Now to try to wait for issue 2!

To meet the overwhelming demand for this year’s hottest comic book event, leading to a quick sell out at Diamond (though copies may be available at the retail level), Marvel is going back to press with Secret Invasion #1 Second Printing Variant! With a gorgeous wraparound cover featuring the interior art of Leinil Yu—and the return of some familiar faces! From the superstar creative team of Eisner-winner Brian Bendis (New Avengers, Mighty Avengers) and acclaimed artist Leinil Francis Yu (New Avengers), this double-sized first issue has the jaws of fans and critics on the floor!

“I just want to say thank you to every retailer and comic reader who jumped into this with us,” said Bendis. “We have so much more to show you. This is just the beginning!”

Marvel urges retailers to check their orders on Secret Invasion and tie-in issues, as both continue to generate buzz and quick sell outs. Just what do the Skrulls have planned? Who are the heroes who’ve emerged from the Skrull craft? And with systematic attacks on every major force in the Marvel Universe, can anyone rise up to oppose the Skrulls? Don’t miss a single issue of Secret Invasion!

SECRET INVASION #1 (of 8) SECOND PRINTING VARIANT (FEB088127)
Written by BRIAN MICHAEL BENDIS
Penciled by LEINIL FRANCIS YU
Cover by LEINIL FRANCIS YU
Rated T+ …$3.99
FOC—4/10/08, On-Sale—4/30/08

SECRET INVASION #2 (of 8) (MAR082203)
SECRET INVASION #2 (of 8) MCNIVEN VARIANT (MAR082204)
SECRET INVASION #2 (of 8) SKETCH VARIANT (MAR082205)
SECRET INVASION #2 (of 8) YU VARIANT (FEB088083)
Written by BRIAN MICHAEL BENDIS
Penciled by LEINIL FRANCIS YU
Cover by GABRIELE DELL’OTTO
Variant by STEVE MCNIVEN
Variant by LEINIL FRANCIS YU
Sketch Variant by STEVE MCNIVEN
Rated T+ …$3.99
FOC—4/17/08, On-Sale—5/7/08