A Station Eight Fan Web Site

Gargoyles

The Phoenix Gate

Ask Greg Archives

Gargoyles Comic Book

Archive Index


: « First : « 25 : Displaying #147 - #171 of 256 records. : 25 » : Last » :


Posts Per Page: 1 : 10 : 25 : 50 : 100 : All :


Bookmark Link

Yiding writes...

First of all, thanks for giving us as entertaining series as GARGOYLES.

As for my question, now that new stories are being told in comic book format, do you think you'll ever use storytelling techniques more suited for comics than animation (e.g. first-person narration boxes), or is that too much of a deviation after so many episodes on TV for your tastes? I'm unsure of which I'd prefer myself.

Greg responds...

I'm going to explore the medium I'm in.

Response recorded on April 30, 2007

Bookmark Link

Gabriel writes...

Hey Greg
Congrats on getting caught up with the que (at least for the moment).

Picked up Issues 2 and 3 today. (almost missed them, as Golden Apple had them in the Kids section while I was expecting them to be in the Alterntaive section, but I found them, so all is well).

Anyway I love the image on the last page! I'm hoping for a few rockin' panels of Talon vs. Thailog in issue 4, seeing as how they are 2 of my favorite characters, both visually and psychologicaly.
There were quite a few references to series history, most I caught, but for a few I had to really dredge though my memory (and the ask greg archives) to get them, since I haven't seen any of the second half of season 2 since it aired. (and yes I am spreading the word about both the comic and the DVD's that are out in the continuing hope that the sales numbers will reach the levels BVHV requires for that last set to be released.)

I love the Illuminati machinations that you're setting up. I always enjoy "wheels within wheels".

Okay here's a question since this is "Ask Greg":
Are the comic sales numbers reaching levels that will ensure production beyond the "Clan Building" arc? The greenlight for "Bad Guys" makes me think that numbers are doing good, but I don't want to take anything for granted. Especially after many of us blindly assumed we'd get Season 2 vol. 2.

One final note- You've had a rather expensive influence on my DVD impulse buying habits. I picked up Ben 10 season 1 on DVD having seen none of the show, solely on your recomendation at the Gathering last year. Totally worth it, by the way. I also picked up Gummi Bears Vol. 1, but that was an equal part personal nostalgia as much as that series influence on you for Gargoyles.

Anyway keep up the good work, looking forward to future issues of Gargoyles.

Oh also congrats on the Spider-Man gig, I'm totally stoked for that series! (Are you gonna set up a place to ask you about that series so we don't bog down this site with non-Garg questions? like that one :) )

Ciao,
Gabriel

Greg responds...

I know I'm not totally caught up (again), but I don't feel too bad about it now. 65 messages, only a few weeks behind. We're at least in the ballpark. But managing one ASK GREG site is plenty. So Spider-Questions'll have to come here as well.

I don't know how we're doing sales-wise, to be honest. I think the phrase "don't take anything for granted" is wise. I don't think we're in any immediate danger of cancellation, but it seems to me that this is a business of fairly thin margins.

Response recorded on April 23, 2007

Bookmark Link

Onyx writes...

You mentioned in an earlier response that you've 'cast' the new characters in the comic, which I found very interesting as I'm also one of those people who hears the voices of the established characters (especially Owen and Xanatos). Any chance you'd share the casting decisions you made, so we'll know what you think the new guys sound like?

Greg responds...

Maybe someday, but not yet. Before I start putting too many beyond the page ideas in peoples' heads, I want them to be able to experience and interpret for themselves. It's a hard thing to do. It takes some discipline, and I've already slipped up a few times. On one level, I'm eager to discuss all the whys and wherefores behind my choices, but it really is cheating in a way. If the book can't stand on its own merits, than... well... I'm screwed anyway.

Response recorded on April 20, 2007

Bookmark Link

Demon@ writes...

Hello Greg,
What im going to asked you is not comic related. Im from argentina and i cant find any website or something that could bring an issue here. But well i was complaining about the same thing a year ago abouth the dvd and i finally manage to get it :D Origynal and all!! :D.
But well, on with my questions:
I was reading the archives and i read something like "Thailog was the most evil of the three.." comparing him with Demona and Macbeth. That got me thinking...
How is that someone can be more evil than a creature who is planing to destroy the human race (wich has some sense. Humans themselves have destroy entire species of animals considering them as dangerous, but thats not the point on these post). If we consider Evil as the capacity of someone to do, willingly and consciously, damage to others, Thailog should hardly be consider more evil than Demona, since both of them are as equal to destroy another sentient been.
But if we consider Evil someone who actually enjoys causing damage and suffering to others, that may change things a bit and thats what brought those questions up.
1- Does Demona enjoy killing humans?
2- Does she see the killing only as something that has to be done?
3- Is it something born only from rage and grief, or does she has a sadic pleasure on killing those who made her life miserable?
4- Can we consider Demona as someoe cruel and that finds actual pleasure on the suffering of others?
5- What would Thailog do that Demona wouldnt even think of? Something that would make him more evil than she is.
Well thanks again for any respons you give me. And i WONT loose my hopes of getting the comic :D (someway somehow).

Greg responds...

I think your paraphrase of my quotation (at least out of context) is problematic and thus not quite accurate, but...

1. She thinks she does.

2. Yes.

3. All of the above.

4. On occasion.

5. I can't think of a hypothetical example.

You might ask a fellow fan to send you the comics. You can paypal them, perhaps.

Response recorded on April 19, 2007

Bookmark Link

Shadow Wing writes...

(Lexington boots up his computer, signs onto the 'net, types in a web address, and there we see it)

ISSUE 2: THE JOURNEY

"Medieval scholar Lennox Macduff," eh? What research does he do? Read his old diaries?

On that note, the irony of A.D.A Yale's statements, nicely contrasted by the events happening in our story, have always amused me - especially "Our children are not safe!"

Xanatos, Mr. Duval, and the Illuminati - I have to admit, I don't think I ever really understood what was going on here from the TV version - I think I always assumed that Alex's piggyback ride was on the way to the phone, Xanatos following Owen's implied advice. But here, his smirk makes the point much clearer - it's not wise to ceep the Illuminati waiting, but Xanatos doesn't care. Baby Alex needs some daddy time!
But I can just see Owen back at the phone: "I'm sorry, Mr. Duval, I'm afraid that Mr. Xanatos is in the middle of something vitally important - it cannot wait, and requires his full attention. He hopes you understand."

Broadway and Angela - I don't recall the TV version calling it a reading lesson, so nice touch there. But I don't think that Shakespeare is the best material to learn to read (and frankly, I'm not that fond of reading Shakespeare at all - seeing it, however, is another story).
Angela's been off of Avalon for the better part of a year, but still, like Broadway with literacy, she has so much to learn.
Semi-random thought: How's Hudson's progress towards learning to read? I don't remember seeing anything of that since High Noon.
Brooklyn's line - "Parting is such sweet sorrow" - knowing what I do now, I wonder if this was a subtle foreshadowing of Timedancer - he parts with the Clan for forty years, but finds love.

After Vinnie leaves, Goliath's statement about life is very true - life is a journey, and the road is often hard. But we can't let that stop us, for each new day brings an exciting new adventure. Don't think about the journey's end, because as someone said, destination is a state of mind.

Not much else to say, now. Some people have commented that they miss the voices, but I can here them still, playing in my head with perfect clarity - right down to Margot Yale's voice not being Marina's.

So, to Greg Weisman, and everyone else at Creature Comics: keep up the good work.

(Lex logs off, and shuts down the computer.)

Greg responds...

In my mind, Margot is always played by Marina. Tress is a wonderful actress of course, but Margot is Marina.

Response recorded on April 17, 2007

Bookmark Link

Shadow Wing writes...

CLAN BUILDING: ISSUE 1 - NIGHTWATCH

First point: I like that you cut out Banquo and Fleance - they are established characters, working for Macbeth, and sticking them in with the Quarrymen seemed like just treating them as extras (I'm assuming that they'll be used again if/when Macbeth makes an appearance). The mother and the jogger were better for such a role - while they had function in their past appearances, it was simple, and they haven't had even five minutes total screen time in all 65 episodes.

The Lois and Artie scene amused me - "You may keep your weapon" - too bad for Artie, he can't use it anymore.

I seem to remember that some people disliked the exposition pages - I, however, felt they were a nice adaptation of Keith David's monologue from season 2 to introduce new readers to what has happened to the Gargs over the past two (or 1002) years (and of course, Goliath is speaking it).

The Bluestone-Chavez scene, with the Captain on crutches, brings a thought to mind - John Canmore, if I remember right, was always a little unsure about the Hunt - I seem to recall at the very least that he was willing to spare Goliath and company, and simply Hunt "the Demon." Yet now, as Castaway, he shows the same recklessness that his older siblings had before (Casualties? Innocent bystanders? Who cares?). He strikes me as being blindly dedicated to the point of obsession, or even insanity, and uncaring of how many people get between him and the eradication of the Gargoyle species.

As for the scene itself: Maria Chavez didn't reach Captain by being stupid - Matt was nervouse when she asked about Xanatos, and I doubt that escaped her notice. She probably guesses that he's hiding something.

Elisa's wakeup - I only have this to say - boxers or panties?

Vinnie's recruitment, Part 2: "I think you'll see the necessity [for the hammers]." - Castaway is so sure of what he's doing, he doesn't see how anyone could disagree with him.

On Elisa's balcony: "No way you're fighting this hard if stone-face weren't the real thing…" Let's skip the poor English and go straight to the fact that the statement is total bull!! If it were just a statue, one like that would have to be worth a fortune! I remember that bugging me even in the TV version.

That's it for Nightwatch.

Greg responds...

First Point: I didn't cut them. They're in the issue. Banquo and Fleance are with the Quarrymen now, not Macbeth. Sorry.

As for Castaway, I think he is obsessed, but that doesn't mean he's unintelligent. I hope his portrayal in issues 1-3 indicate that. His statement to Vinnie is successful, so there's no way to know whether he's blind to disagreement or being smart or both.

Response recorded on April 13, 2007

Bookmark Link

Nelio writes...

I was wondering if the Gargoyles Comics were eventually going to reprinted as a graphic novel once enough issues are put out? I'm not sure if you would know about this or not, but I've always liked the material that graphic novels are printed on more than the paper back comics, and I feel that Gargoyles is worthy of that type of medium.

Greg responds...

I don't know.

Response recorded on April 13, 2007

Bookmark Link

david writes...

hi greg. i love gargoyles. I am so confused. so will the comic book that ever come out take place after the goliath chronlicals? or are you getting ride of them for good?

An Ask Greg Helper responds...

Greg Weisman says:

I'm choosing to ignore the Goliath Chronicles in the comic book. The justification is that ... is that... well, heck, do I really NEED a justification?

Response recorded on April 12, 2007

Bookmark Link

PenAgain writes...

Wow! Having just read issue 3 of the comic, I must say... I was astounded! I have had my reservations about the first issues, mostly because I was uncertain of the pacing of it all. But now, things are moving briskly, but we are still seeing flashes of our characters, even when they appear only briefly in an issue. It was amazing finally seeing NEW story progression after all these years!

In the letters page, you mentioned the idea of audio comics, and let me tell you... I'd pay a very reasonable (maybe even unreasonable) price to be able to listen to this issue read in the original voice actors' voices... but I suppose we should always have something to fight for out here in Garg fandom.

My question, at last- Since issues 1 and 2 equated roughly to one 22 minute episode... do you have any sort of fixed guideline you follow in a pages to minutes conversion? Does issue 3 feel like a 22 minute episode to you, or just part of one? I'm just curious, and I know that in teh long run my question's really rather irrelevant.

Thanks for making it so easy to keep having faith in the Gargoyles Universe, Greg! And if we ever get Season 2 Volume 2 on DVD, you better be at the front of every episode with introductions again. I loved those and found them charming, not goofy (as someone once commented here... or was that you?)

Greg responds...

I do think they're goofy (which is not to say I didn't have a lot of fun doing them).

I'd also love to do audio comics, but we'd need to see more evidence that there's a market for them. Hopefully, now that we're on schedule again, we'll be able to build the sales up on the comic.

To answer your question, I generally view each issue of the comic as being equivalent to one act of an episode. This is not a hard and fast rule, but it seems to be how things are breaking down. I was able to fit my adaptation of "The Journey" into two issues because the first issue had extra pages. But normally, I'll need three issues to do MOST stories justice. (Three acts to a TV episode = three issues of the comic.) Or so it seems. I'll admit that I'm still thinking TOO MUCH in TV terms. Issue #6 is a more stand alone story, but issues #7-9 tell one story and issues 10-12 will tell another that will bring the 12 issue Clan-Building arc to an end. It's like this:

CLAN-BUILDING
Story #1 - Issue #1 ("Nightwatch") and Issue #2 ("The Journey")
Story #2 - Issue #3 ("Invitation Only") and Issue #4 ("Masque") and Issue #5 ("Bash")
Story #3 - Issue #6 ("Reunion")
Story #4 - Issue #7 ("The Rock") and Issue #8 (TBA) and Issue #9 (TBA)
Story #5 - Issue #10 (TBA) and Issue #11 (TBA) and Issue #12 (TBA)

Twelve issues, five stories, one arc. As you can see, this barely scratches the surface of my Season Three plans, let alone my LARGER tapestry plans. But it's a start.

Response recorded on April 03, 2007

Bookmark Link

KingCobra_582 writes...

Wow. It seems like I'm posting the first issue #3 review here. Cool. :D

Thank you for the first (and the first of many more to come) canon Gargs story in 11 years. It is really great.

Okay, enough of the euphoric gratitude and onto the review.

STORY: It was great. Top-notch writing done here. I felt for Goliath, going through that discussion with Elisa, and though I was in a slight state of "Arrrrrrgh....!" with her there, I could also kind of understand where she was coming from. Looking forward to seeing how this will get resolved later on, Greg. Moving along, it was great seeing Demona again. Ditto with Talon and Maggie (though they're not my favorites, I still didn't care. It is the 1st canon story in over a decade and I embrace every element of it.), along with the clones. And is it just me, or is Brooklyn starting to have a thing for Delilah now? She says "Hello" to him, and the next couple of panels just make it seem like he was aggravated with Goliath beating him to the punch. *sighs* Poor guy. Brooklyn just can't get a break. Well, at least until 'Timedancer' comes along, that is.

ART: The artwork is great here. The characters seem to be drawn well, though they looked... off... in some panels, I was able to let it go, b/c it was a rare oddity. Great little touches put in there (i.e. Alex's gargoyle costume.) that were cool. Talon was... okay-looking, but it's still early in the series (comic-wise, anyway) so I'm sure he'll improve design-wise. That close-up of Thailog's leering grin in the last panel gave me the willies. *shivers* Of course, I loved it. :) Hell, just the cover alone had me stoked. I felt like a carnivorous (sp?) dino at a McDonald's. Metaphorically speaking, of course.

Hindsight, this issue gets a perfect 10 out of me. The art could still use some work (Matt looked weird in his first panel, and Talon was okay for a 1st time appearence.), but the story captured my interest in the beginning, broadened it in the middle, and had me on the edge of my seat at the end. I definitely can't wait for #4. Kudos for the great writing, Greg. I'll buy you a soda or something at the next con for that.

Cheers. :)

Greg responds...

Thanks KC.

I picked up the book myself yesterday, and was kinda psyched and yet frustrated, cuz I now can't wait to see your response to issues 4 and 5 (and 6 and 7). I'm scripting issue #8 now (having also completed Gargoyles: Bad Guys #1). That's the curse of being ahead. Just as you guys have to wait to see the stuff, I have to wait FOR you to see it all.

Response recorded on March 29, 2007

Bookmark Link

Laura (Ackerman) Sack writes...

Rather surprising that no post alerting readers that issue two came out... though by the time this is read it may be a post alerting of issue 10 that I'll be looking for:)

I am trying not to review comics on how they read at 2:30Am when I should be long asleep. This time I decided to reread 1 & 2 while fully awake and quite of few of my negative comments melted away. Still, there remained both pluses and minuses.

The most obvious change is the art. It seems to me that the two conflicting styles seen in issue 1 were melded together. Oddly enough the result is something far more reminiscent of the cartoon. Truth be told the art stood out more in issue 1- but so did the off model parts. This was miles away more consistent throughout the issue. There were some images that I took issue with: I don't like the new design for baby Alex, and Elisa looked rather Asian in some frames (more a problem with Dt. Yin over in The Batman) But there were some fantastic moments to more than balance. The facial expressions of Lex when baby Alex was reaching in the frame and playing with his face, or when Xanatos sheepishly admits that he knows it is not wise to annoy the Illuminati were fantastic. Broadway and Angela's scene was just lovely. And, of course, the full page of Goliath and Elisa when they first hit the ground. (also a nice frame when he is first hit by the hammer and she ducks.)

For some reason I just loved it when Elisa threw away her remaining shoe.

Some of the fighting was a little dark and muddled to my (sleep deprived) eyes. When Elisa stands above the mercenaries who had just talked about kissing their salary goodbye, I knew I was seeing a moment like Demona's, way back in Awakenings, when she appears saying, "no, you lost it all.", but I didn't feel it in my gut. (I reserve the right to feel it in my gut when I reread issue 2 with issue 3 and hopefully that night do so before midnight.) There was one very clever composition, where the hammer light swoosh and sound effects swooped through 4 levels of frames on one page. Problem was, some of the sound effects seemed a little too even. The helicopter sounds were correctly all the same, but organic sounds looked that way too. (I checked and didn't see that in #1). Of course I did get to see a downright heroic Vinny and got NOT to see Castaway escaping through the guts of the building.

Oh- and speaking of animation gaffs in the original airing…did Goliath end the issue gliding off on his injured wing?!

thanks and looking forward to #3!

La

Greg responds...

In the comic, Goliath is LEAPING on page 24, not gliding. His wings aren't even extended.

I'm told issue #3 will be out on March 28th, 2007.

Response recorded on March 13, 2007

Bookmark Link

dph writes...

My Review of issue #2

The good:

Excellent story-telling. I liked the pace that the drama went through. I ordered my comic through SLG's website and got it before Christmas.

The bad:

The artwork. Granted that I'm not an artist and that I have no sense of color aesthetics, I have some issues with the artwork. The opening scenes with Macbeth remind me of looking at myself in the mirror when I'm half-awake. Lex doesn't quite look right in the scenes with Alex.

I am looking forward to buying the next issue when it is released.

Greg responds...

I'm glad. I like the artwork. It's not perfect of course. And it printed considerably darker than Will colored it, but hopefully we've addressed this problem with Dustin and Steph in the future.

And I liked the Lex/Alex scenes. I thought they were fun.

Response recorded on March 13, 2007

Bookmark Link

Antiyonder writes...

Knew I was forgeting something. I figured I'd comment on the JLE/Captain Atom/Gargoyle Crossover.

I enjoyed all of the stories in JLA Showcase #1, but just the same, your story alone was worth the cover price. I'm just sorry I haven't stumbled onto it sooner.

Everything from Behemoth and clans Awakening, to the introductions is hilarious. My favorite line though:

Metamorpho- I thought he said they were an endangered species?

Captain Atom sure had his priorities straight alright. Anyway, I hope my commenting was ok.

Just a few questions considering others take on the issue.

1. Did you get any complaints for those who might not have appreciated the humorous nature of the parody?

2. Did Beth, Erin and Ben read it?

2a. If yes, what were their comments.

3. Have you considered doing a ramble on the story?

Greg responds...

1. Nope. There was an earlier draft without the Flash, and my editor asked me to do a rewrite so that the JLE membership didn't come off as quite so feeble.

2. I don't think so.

3. I haven't. But maybe I will someday.

My favorite word in the entire story is "Thomeheb."

Response recorded on March 13, 2007

Bookmark Link

Charisma82 writes...

Hey again! Here's some questions about your comic book:

1. I have hear that you are planning on starting the comic books in the year you left off, in 1996. Are you going to speed up time somehow and make the comic book in our time? That's 10 (well, almost 11) years of stuff you have to fit into a few comics. I guess you could spread it out over a series of comic books. If you do that, how would you tackle that problem? That's asking in case you do move them forward, you might decide to keep the time stream back in the 90's, but that could get confusing to people who are just starting to read the comics and never saw the show. Anyways, if you could shed some light on that subject, it would be appreciated.

2. I purchased the first comic book online at amazon.com (I love that place!) I pre-ordered the second comic book sometime back in August. Amazon kept sending me e-mails each month since that time, telling me that the book still was not out yet. Finally, in December, it told me that they could not send me that comic book. What!? I was wondering if this was because you didn't have it out yet or if they are just not selling them on Amazon anymore. That would be stupid if they are not. Also, why is it taking so long to get the 2nd one out? I thought they were supposed to be a bi-monthly thing? Did something go wrong? Just curious.

Thank you for your time and efforts. They are appreciated.

-Charisma82

Greg responds...

1. As I've stated before, the comic is currently set in 1996. I will move forward through time at a steady but not particularly speedy pace. Given that the book only comes out six times a year (knock wood) we may be in the 90s for a decade or so. ;) But the book will make an effort NOT to identify the year. It's all still vaguely contemporary. Real world history will play in on occasion, but I'll just live with that. Casual fans don't need to know the year the book is taking place in. Hardcore fans can always come here and I'll gladly reveal the date of any event depicted in the comics.

2. Yes, something went wrong. But we REALLY think the problem has been fixed. See the archives for more info. I'm not sure why Amazon told you they couldn't deliver it in December, since that's exactly when it DID become available.

Response recorded on March 09, 2007

Bookmark Link

Charisma82 writes...

Hey! It's great Ask Greg is up again. Well, I waited 2 years for 2 posts I made to be answered. The first one somehow got erased 1 month before you could answer it. ONE MONTH! Can you believe it? I waited 2 years and it gets erased one month before? Ahh! I'm not saying it's your fault or anything. It's just annoying, that's all….

Here is the question that somehow never made it to you:

I've been wondering about Hudson's human friend Jeffrey

1. I know that in the Goliath Chronicles that Jeffrey figures out that Hudson is a gargoyle, and I wanted to know if you had the same idea for him (if he doesn't already know. I wouldn't be surprised if he knew Hudson was a gargoyle the first minute they met). If not, does Jeffery ever figure out what Hudson really is? Would he be comfortable with the fact his friend is really a gargoyle or not? (personally, I think that Jeffrey wouldn't mind, but you never know what the story has in hold for you).

2. Are you planning on having one of the comic book stories based mostly around Jeffrey and Hudson? (them not being just a side dish to Goliath, Elisa, and the trio's main course?)

3. Are we ever going to learn more about Jeffrey's personal life? Was he ever married? Did or does he have kids? Does he have any family around, like siblings?

I looked for anything on Jeffrey in your archives and only found 3 posts under his name. I know it'll be a while before you get this, so maybe he'll have more posts when you read this. If you hadn't noticed, Jeffery if one of my favorite characters on the show, even if he was only in 2 of the episodes that you worked on. He was great in the "Lighthouse" episode. I wish that he could get a little more attention.

Thanks for your time and hope to hear back from you.

-Charisma82

Greg responds...

1. I'm not revealing this at this time.

2. Jeffrey will be appearing before the end of Clan-Building.

3. Eventually, I'll get to everything (assuming I live long enough).

I like Jeff too. Keep your eye out for him in the comics.

Response recorded on March 09, 2007

Bookmark Link

Danny Dyche writes...

I just recently found this site, and am posting for the first time. I'd like to say that this provides a very nice opportunity to fans.

I also think that if you get to do the Halloween double date story, there would be an appropriate symmetry to Elisa's date being Morgan because between the four characters there are only two actors. Of course I realize that, the way things are, the most likely way for the story to appear would be in the new comic book, which doesn't have any actors.

Greg responds...

In my head, there are always actors. I try to hear the voices...

Of course, starting in issue #3 we introduce new characters, one of whom has a speaking part, so I cast the character in my head, so I could hear her voice as well.

More new characters speak in issue #4, and I cast them too.

Keeps me honest.

Response recorded on March 09, 2007

Bookmark Link

Antiyonder writes...

I'd say issues one and two overall were pretty enjoyable, but can't really comment without restating everyones opinions. Though I do have some questions and a comment.

1. The majority of new scenes and dialogue, were they part of your script for the episode when it was first in production?

1a. If not, then was it for the fans who already watched the episode. To give them something new?

2. Given that the episode, "A Lighthouse In The Sea Of Time" encourages reading, perhaps it is a good thing that Gargoyles is in comic format. For one, because you have to read a comic (though there are the pictures, still). Second, because the show might have fans who can't read. The comics would probably give them the incentive to read.

Greg responds...

1. Most were part of an early draft that I had to cut down because it was too long. Some were in the final draft, but got cut by the Goliath Chron's producers. A few changes were made here and there just in the comic book script, mostly to put more names in to identify characters for new readers.

1a. That too.

2. Can't hurt.

Response recorded on March 09, 2007

Bookmark Link

Dusk Rider Q writes...

My Review of Issue #2

Let me start by saying. "The Journey" was never one of my favorite episodes. It's too heavy on exposition, and doesn't introduce us to anything new but the Quarrymen. (I'm not a big fan of them either as they sort of hit us over the head with the KKK comparison. I much prefer the Hunters with their own pact of vengeance, a long history to harbor a grudge, and a powerful symbol of hate with it's own story behind it) I understand the need for being friendly to new readers, but there's too much a crash course in Gargoyles back story and not enough a plot. The plot instead consist mostly of Goliath moping around in Part one followed by he and Elisa running around in part 2. Also, Vinnie's turn seems to get treated as the big reveal, and most of us should have seen that coming. Just my two cents, though.

All the same, there were things that more than made up for that. Firstly, I like that this issue doesn't hold back, but still doesn't get gratuitous. The blood from Goliath's injury is enough to show the seriousness of his injury. The TV version would have you think he just got bruised and hit hard. Although, contrary to that, Elisa looked like she got hit pretty hard with the hammer. Yet, she gets up a little later without much damage? Secondly, I like Margot Yale showing a lot of promise with being someone who could give Elisa and Matt grief in future story arcs due to her power as both a DA and a Task Force advisor. I imagine she'll start catching on to them helping the gargoyles out if she at all competent! Thirdly, the quips were cute and clever such as Lex's sardonic reply to Fox about her compliment meaning so much. Also, I really like Castaway's line " I don't teach lessons and I don't take prisoners" for no apparent reason. Likewise, Elisa's comment about how it is easier if she stays behind sometimes is one of the best in the episode. She does seem to want to be in action a lot when she isn't exactly needed, but at least she proves to be a help in the clock tower. Thank you for not making her a damsel (Yin often turned into that after you left in The Batman.)

The art is wonderful! I wasn't sure how I liked it at first. But now, as near as I can see everyone was completely on frame in this issue. Guler is finding his nitch I see with the frames on top of frames and angles. He really adds deserved detail to the full spread shots like Elisa and Goliath laying unconscious in the title page and there being a puddle with a reflection of the night sky. (Somehow I was saying "Aww" instead of "oh no!" They just look cute and strangely sensual like that.) Furthermore, I love how much facial expressions add to some panels, such as when Vinnie pull on his hood with such a subtle sadness. Finally, Just like the last issue the juxtaposition of unfounded discrimination with who the gargoyles truly are were nice touches. However, some frames in the end battle, such as the one where Castaway fall out the window, were hard to distinguish, and I don't think that's because of the darkness.

So overall, I hope you see my likes far outweigh my dislikes! I can barely contain myself with the anticipation for the new story. Woo HOO! Ten years later and a new story! I truly hope the next issues are as regular as you said in the letter at the back. Some people seem worried about picking up the book with such a large delay. Still, maybe that's not the case. I got the second to last issue at my local store.

Keep up the good work! (lol. I say that like you get a gold star)

Greg responds...

Just to be clear, Guler is our cover pencillist, but the interiors of issue #2 were pencilled by David Hedgecock.

And thanks for the gold star.

Response recorded on March 09, 2007

Bookmark Link

Matt writes...

My Thoughts On Issue 2 (Clan-Building Chapter Two: The Journey):

- First off, the cover looks great. I really like Elisa's dress as opposed to the one seen in "The Journey" TGC episode and Goliath's battle damage looks a bit more serious too. And speaking of Goliath, he looks pretty buff here, I mean, he's huge! Anyway, looks great.

- I love the extra tidbit of information on "Lennox Macduff" authoring "Gargoyles of Celtic Legend". Sounds like a book I'd love to read. I wonder is it a book about gargoyles or about real-life Gargoyles? Hard to tell. And we learn something new about Margot Yale, she is an advisor to the NYPD Gargoyle Task Force as well as being the assistant DA. it'll be interesting to see how that plays out. Her relationship with Matt Bluestone and her connections to the gargoyles just became much more interesting.

- As I mentioned before, Goliath really takes a rough injury to his wing. I mean it looks really bad, so bad that I almost doubt him when he says it'll heal when he turns to stone. Obsidiana had a similar injury in "The Green" and it healed, of course her wing only looked broken, Goliath had big old holes in his wing as well as it looking broken. I suppose it is similar to the wound he took over London after being hit by a Nazi bullet, though it certainly looks worse here. I dunno, just some thoughts.

- The title page with the injured Goliath and Elisa is really nice. I have to say it seems to be pseudo-sexual in a way. I really like it, it is kinda beautiful. A nice touch is the Eyrie building's reflection in the puddle and the flesh wound on Goliath's cheek.

- The Alex/Bronx/Lex/Fox scene (lot of x's there) is nice. Bright and colorful, a contrast to the rest of the book. Sadly, Alex's teddy bear no longer has gargoyle wings, and Alex no longer seems to have red hair, but is blond now. Another interesting color situation is Bronx's tongue, which is now blue, as opposed to the red tongue seem in the tv episodes. I don't think it is good or bad, just different. I love Lex's face when he is talking to Fox (and Alex is grabbing his ear). It's one of those priceless faces, right there with Hudson's face when he looks at Goliath holding Elisa in "Awakening"

- I like how the artist was consistent enough in showing how Elisa lost one of her shoes in Issue 1 and pulls the other one off in this issue (because who would run around in just one shoe?). I think it is the tidbits of continuity and realism like that that have always been one of Gargoyles' strengths.

- The Library where Angela and Broadway are hanging out seems pretty dark to be reading in. Which leads me to my only complaint about the book. It seems to be very darkly colored. Almost too dark to clearly see what is going on sometimes. I understand this is happening at night and in dark places, and I realize it is oftentimes a dark series, but still, there are times when I have to put certain pages under a bright light to see whats going on. Done with the criticism.

- Back to Broadway and Angela. Yes, we all know they are gonna get together and have three kids and stuff, but I really love watching them develop over time. Angela's lips are kinda a dark purple, which is a lot like Bronx's colored tongue. Just another observation. It actually makes some anatomical sense, so it will certainly grow on me. New now though. Poor Brooklyn, I guess he'll find someone soon enough though, but still, he doesn't know what his future holds, so for now, poor Brook.

- Probably the best single frame in the book (and kudos to Greg W, the artists, everyone) is the frame where Elisa says to Goliath, "I know, I know. Sometimes it's easier if I just stay behind." Goliath's little grin is priceless, I love it. The line itself is perfect, I mean Goliath has to carry her around everywhere, he loves her, but geez, that has to be frustrating for both of them at times.

- The old stomping grounds. It certainly has seen better days, as Elisa point out. My hope is that it is rebuilt and has a future in the series.

- I like seeing Elisa on Goliath's back with her little bare feet sticking forward. It's cute.

- I've always liked the fight in the Clocktower. It's like once Elisa and Goliath are on familiar turf, they have the advantage. I must wonder what is in store for Banquo and Fleance. Will Castaway fire them or just withhold their paychecks? Or maybe they'll quit.

- I think it is interesting that Castaway tells Vinnie to not use names, as Quarrymen must remain anonymous (one has to wonder his reasons for that!) and then he turns around and calls Vinnie by name. Kind of a hypocrite. Anyway, Vinnie vs. Castaway, what an unlikely duel that is. But it works. Castaway gets away in the end, so I'm sure we'll see him around. And Vinnie? I wonder if we'll see him again... probably, knowing this series. I wonder though, Goliath and Elisa seem pretty sure that Vinnie will encounter the Ishimura Clan, but unless he is going to Ishimura itself, I don't see why this is likely. Ishimura keeps the gargoyles a pretty tight secret, and Greg W has indicated that they are not gonna reveal themselves to the world for some time. So is Vinnie going to Ishimura? And who there hired him? Taro?

- One more thing: I find it hilarious to see Greg W talking about catching up in Ask Greg in the "Etched in Stone" back page. Now Greg's attempts to catch up are being published! Makes me laugh. We love ya, Greg. Kinda weird to see something we have talked about so much online in a hard copy in my hands. "It's weird... kinda fun... but weird..."

- So overall, I enjoyed it very much. The writing is great, of course. I'm still a fan of the art, though the darkness of this issue was a little annoying. All in all though, I love it and can't wait for Issue 3. So far in "Clan-Building" we've seen the formation of the Quarrymen "clan" and the reintroduction of the Manhattan Clan. How else will clans be built in the future...? I guess we'll see.

Greg responds...

Castaway! A hypocrite?! Say it ain't so!! ;)

Look for Vinnie in up-coming issues (like say Garg #8 and G:BG #2.

Response recorded on March 09, 2007

Bookmark Link

KingCobra_582 writes...

*copied and pasted from the s8 Comment Room*

Picked my copy of issue #2 up. Thought I'd leave my 2 cents. It's more of a art review then anything else, mainly b/c I'm feeling too lazy to write out a lengthy review.

The artwork was good, much better then #1's was. I loved Xanatos' design style, Fox was... interesting. LOVED the expression of Lex's face when he's speaking to Fox (Alex grabbing his nose and ear was a nice artistic touch, IMO.) and kudos to Hedgecock for the design styles of Goliath and Elisa.

Yeah, the library was a little dim, but that didn't bother me. I really sympathized with Brooklyn here, but he'll go through time and get a mate someday... The way he was drawn here was alright, but not too special. He could've looked better, but I'm sure he will over time.

The story was great, for being a comic adaptation of a 10 year old episode. Can't wait for #3, though. THAT'S when it's gonna get really good, I'm betting, with the new stuff and everything.

February 2007 just could not get here fast enough.

Greg responds...

Or... March, right?

Yeah, the whole comic printed darker than we expected. It's a shame. Will's colors were stronger than the print job would suggest. Hopefully, we've made the correct adjustments now, so that Steph's colors on the cover to issue #3 and Dustin's colors for the interiors won't suffer from the same problems.

Response recorded on March 09, 2007

Bookmark Link

Phoenician writes...

So here I am with my first Post since getting the first comic, Clan Building, Chapter I. After several months, I now have Chapter II: The Journey, and I'm happy to see the regardless the wait, the story continues!!

I love this part of "The Journey" probably for its great lines, particularly Goliath's "Honestly, I was never quite sure," when talking about Vinnie and Macbeth's "Madam, they BURNED witches like you in the Middle Ages!!" (I can still here John Rhys-Davies' outburst quite clear even though I haven't seen that episode on TV in a good year. If Season II: Volume II ever comes out on DVD, I'd love that episode to be a bonus feature . . . just to hear that outburst.

Great to see Margot Yale again as well!

I also love the little treats that you've included in the issue, particularly Xanatos & Owen's conversation about Mr. Duval. LOVE Xanatos' reply to Owen, and I LOVE how Owen takes it in stride -- can't wait to see him turn into Puck one day, should he get the chance to teach Alex another lesson!

And I've mentioned this in the Comment Room, but I love how Hudson had the subtle honor of "turning on" Chapter II and then he also gets to "turned it off" as well. Still feels like a TV show twelve years later!!

That's basically it, Greg. I can't wait for Chapter III and I also can't wait for the destined release of Season II: Volume II (We've got this far, its not going to end now!)

Cross your fingers that I'll have been able to go to a Gathering by the time you read this!

Greg responds...

All right, let's start with this: WHOAH! I'm now only three months behind here at ASK GREG! I wonder what's the furthest behind I've ever been?

Anyway...

That bit with Hudson was one of the reasons I was so disappointed with the Goliath Chronicles edit of "The Journey". They reordered scenes so that Hudson turning off the set did not come last, destroying the bookend of the show. Plus that awful naration.... ugh.

As you may know, the long awaited Gargoyles #3 is coming out this month: March 28th, 2007, to be specific. I'm nervous and psyched to finally have a brand new canon story about to hit the stores. Hope you like it! And I hope I do see you in Pigeon Forge!

Response recorded on March 09, 2007

Bookmark Link

THE BIG BAD GOOD NEWS...

Hey gang,

JUST got back from WONDERCON. Made a few announcements there, that I want to repeat here...

GARGOYLES: BAD GUYS

SLG will be releasing a new spin-off of Gargoyles. GARGOYLES: BAD GUYS. This will be a six issue bi-monthly limited series in black and white. I'm writing the title, with art by Karine Charlebois and tones by Stephanie Lostimolo. Covers (as always) by Greg Guler, colored (yes, colored) by Stephanie.

Gargoyles will remain a bi-monthly book (in color). (More on this in a second.) And Bad Guys will come out bi-monthly on the main title's dark months, so for a year you'll have SOME Garg Universe product coming out every month.

Now, I'm sure you have questions... So I'm going to TRY to preempt some of them here:

1. HOW CAN YOU START A SPIN-OFF WHEN YOU'RE BEHIND SCHEDULE ON THE REGULAR BOOK?

Fair question. But I personally am NOT behind schedule on the regular book. In fact, I'm way ahead of schedule. Here's where things stand.

Issue #3 is done and has been for weeks. We're simply waiting on Disney to "approve" the issue. There's no mystery or conspiracy here. There's just, I'm guessing, a guy in an office who is swamped with things to approve and isn't making the SLG properties (Gargoyles, Tron, Wonderland, Haunted Mansion) a priority.

Issue #4 is being colored and lettered and should be done within a couple of weeks. Since it doesn't need to go out for two months, that should give Disney plenty of time to approve it.

Issue #5 is being inked.

Issues #6 and #7 have both been scripted and pencilling has started on each.

Issue #1 of Bad Guys has also been scripted.

I will start on issue #8 of Gargoyles next, then #2 of Bad Guys, #9 of Gargoyles and etc.

I'll stay ahead, and hopefully so will everyone else and what that means generally is that barring something totally unforseen, we should be on schedule from here on out.

And, yes, David Hedgecock had delivery issues Gargoyles #2. But this was due to him having to split his time between a day job to pay the bills and his gig on the book. David has now taken the EXTRAORDINARY step of quitting his day job to dedicate his time to Gargoyles. Since we also have fill-in artists on issues #4-6, David is getting right to work on issue #7 and he will no longer be the cause of any delays.

On top of this, Dan Vado has stated that he has every intention of picking up the Gargoyles' license when it comes up for renewal.

I don't want to get complacent, but really this is all good news. It looks like we should be around for a while.

And I actually think that Bad Guys will help us out. We will in essence become a monthly title (at least sort of), which will get readers in the habit of picking up something Gargesque every month. That HABIT should help. At least that's the theory.

2. WHY BAD GUYS? I WANTED TIMEDANCER*! (*Feel free to substitute NEW OLYMPIANS, DARK AGES, PENDRAGON, 2198.)

The main answer is chronology. I have this timeline. And the Bad Guys story I'll be telling in this six issue mini-series is happening in late '96, early '97. This is the story that NEEDS to be told now. I hope you like it. AND I hope you'll support it. Because if this limited series does well, then GARGOYLES: PENDRAGON is next in line. And after that GARGOYLES: TIMEDANCER. (That's as far out as I've allowed myself to think up to this point.) If the limited series doesn't do well, then it'll be the last one... and I'll eventually incorporate events from Pendragon, etc. into the main Gargoyles book. But I'm hopeful that that won't be necessary. And I hope that those of you who've seen the Gargoyles reel at a Gathering can tell those who have never attended one of our great (www.gatheringofthegargoyles.com) conventions just how cool Bad Guys really is.

3. WHEN WILL GARGOYLES: BAD GUYS PREMIERE?

Karine is inking Gargoyles #5 now -- which shows what a trooper she is, since she JUST gave birth a few days ago! As soon as she's done with G#5, she'll start on BG#1. Our hope is that Bad Guys #1 can come out in the dark month between either Gargoyles #6 & #7 or -- at the latest -- between #7 and #8. We certainly plan to tease and pimp Bad Guys at the 2007 Gathering in Pigeon Forge!

So, if all goes well...

Gargoyles #3 - March
Gargoyles #4 - May
Gargoyles #5 - July
Gargoyles #6 - September
Bad Guys #1 - October
Gargoyles #7 - November
Bad Guys #2 - December
Gargoyles #8 - January, 2008
Bad Guys #3 - February, 2008
Gargoyles #9 - March, 2008
Bad Guys #4 - April, 2008
Gargoyles #10 - May, 2008
Bad Guys #5 - June, 2008
Gargoyles #11 - July, 2008
Bad Guys #6 - August, 2008
Gargoyles #12 - September, 2008
Pendragon #1 - October, 2008
etc.

Is there an element of wishful thinking here? Well... duh. But it's not unrealistic either. This is the plan. I mean to do everything in my power to stick to it, and everyone else involved feels the same way. Can't make ABSOLUTE guarantees of course. But I can promise you that I'm passionate about this project, about making it the best it can be both creatively and financially.

4. WHY BLACK AND WHITE?

This is largely an economic decision. Printing in multi-color costs WAY more than printing in B&W, and that reduces greatly SLG's profit margin and ability to put out the titles without over-extending their resources.

Creatively, however, I was completely behind the decision. Though I feel strongly that the main GARGOYLES title should be in color, I think the subject matter of Bad Guys can work terrifically in b&w. Again, if you've seen the Bad Guys reel at the Gathering, you'll have some idea of what this book can be -- even without full color. Plus we will have color covers, so you will get a sense of what our characters look like in color.

5. UH... I CAN'T THINK OF A #5 AT THE MOMENT.

BUT I'M SURE YOU GUYS WILL. The good news is that I'm getting through the ASK GREG back log at a pretty steady pace. I'm hoping to have the site open for questions shortly. And we'll definitely open it up (at least briefly) when issue #3 hits the stores.

NEXT TOPIC...

THE AMAZING SPIDER-MAN

The following press release came out late last week...

KIDS' WB! ON THE CW NETS NEW SPIDER-MAN
ANIMATED SERIES FOR EARLY 2008 PREMIERE

Culver Entertainment Widens Renowned Marvel Hero's Web from Blockbuster Films
to No. 1 Rated Saturday Morning Broadcast Kids Network

BURBANK, CA (MARCH 1, 2007) - Spider-Man swings back into television action in early 2008 as an animated series from Culver Entertainment to air on Kids' WB! on The CW, it was announced today by Kids' WB! Senior Vice President and General Manager Betsy McGowen and Sony Pictures Television Co-President Zack Van Amburg.

Tentatively titled "The Amazing Spider-Man," the new series is being produced by Culver Entertainment. Greg Weisman ("Gargoyles", "The Batman") is supervising producer, Victor Cook ("Hellboy: Blood and Iron" and "Buzz Lightyear of Star Command") is producer/supervising director. The series will premiere on Kids' WB! on The CW, the No.1 rated Saturday morning kids broadcast slate.

"The addition of 'Spider-Man' bolsters a lineup that has proved to be the Saturday morning destination for kids seeking action and adventure in the most amped-up ways," McGowen said. "We're ecstatic to welcome 'Spider-Man' to our popular cavalcade of super heroes."

"Spider-Man is such an important brand for Sony Pictures and we're thrilled to keep the momentum going by taking it back to television with an animated series on Kids' WB!," Van Amburg said. "It's also an excellent way to launch Culver Entertainment, our newest television company."

Riding the crest of Sony's anticipated summer blockbuster "Spider-Man 3," the new animated series picks up the original web-slinger's mythology at the beginning of his hero's journey - as a not-so-typical 16-year-old entering his junior year of high school. Having spent the summer engaging common criminals with his new-found powers, Peter Parker must conceal his secret identity while engaging a new level of terror - the multi-leveled pressures of teenage life at home and school while combating bigger, badder super-villains in the real world.

"Our goal is to reinterpret these great characters and concepts for our millennium," Weisman said. "We'll have plenty of resonant material for the Spider-Man fan, while engaging the Spider-Man novice with the same thrills we experienced when we were first exposed to the character. Our stories will appeal on multiple levels with plenty of eye-candy, action, humor and colorful characters for the youngest demographic balanced with extensive character development for 'tweens, teens and adults."

Culver Entertainment is a Sony Pictures Television company. Sony Pictures Television is one of the television industry's leading content providers. It produces and distributes programming in every genre, including series, telefilms, theatrical releases and family entertainment for network and cable television, as well as first-run and off-network series for syndication. With more than 25 programs on the air, SPT boasts a program slate that includes the top-rated daytime dramas and game shows, landmark off-network series, original animated series and critically acclaimed primetime dramas, comedies and telefilms. SPT (www.sonypicturestelevision.com) is a Sony Pictures Entertainment company.

A leader in children's programming, Kids' WB! continues to be a unique destination for kids. Kids' WB!, now airing on The CW Network, has been the broadcast home for such cornerstone hits as the blockbusters "Pokémon" and "Yu-Gi-Oh!," Emmy® Award-winners "Xiaolin Showdown" and "The Batman," culturally diverse series "Jackie Chan Adventures" and "¡Mucha Lucha! Gigante," and breakout hits "Shaggy & Scooby-Doo Get A Clue!" and "Legion of Super Heroes," among other favorites. Kids and their parents can find more information about Kids' WB! programming online at www.KidsWB.com.

We're still in very early days on Spidey, but I'm tremendously excited about the project. I hope you're looking forward to it, as much as I am.

That's it for now,

gdw


Bookmark Link

Kig writes...

I was wondering, since the comic just recently started, if you were going to be doing the Timedancer and other mini-series as comics now? My apologies if this's been asked in the archives; I checked the Timedancer archives as well as search and didn't find anything about it.

An Ask Greg Helper responds...

Greg Weisman says:

We're taking things one step at a time. But I wouldn't rule anything out.

Response recorded on February 15, 2007

Bookmark Link

JACK-E-CHAN writes...

hey greg this is more like a suggestion rather than a question.it's great that you're continuing season 3 as a comic book and hope you put your master plan that you originally intended sor the show .if you hadn't thought of it already you should do your spin-off ideas like Pendragon,2198,timedancer,etc as comics.this is a great way to please the fans for sure.

An Ask Greg Helper responds...

Greg Weisman says:

We're taking things one step at a time. But I wouldn't rule anything out.

Response recorded on February 15, 2007

Bookmark Link

K9: The First writes...

I have two questions about the Gargoyles Comic book. (Congradulations by the way! ^_^)

I: Should it prove succesful, will you do the spin-offs?

II: When should we expect Trade Paperbacks, and where can we find out updates on release dates? I ask this because I am unable to get comics as they come out annualy. The closest Comic book store is about a 25-minute drive on the Interstate, so you can see the practicality problems with gas prices the way they are. (That, and I don't know how to get there.) HOWEVER! I do make the occasional trip to Barns & Noble or Borders with my mom and I always take enough money to pick up a TPB or two.

Greg responds...

1. Success if relative, but the short answer is yes.

2. I don't know. You could always try ordering the comic on line, of course.

Response recorded on February 13, 2007


: « First : « 25 : Displaying #147 - #171 of 256 records. : 25 » : Last » :