Swaggering ‘Swan’

Lacking narrative surprises but very artistically told, “Black Swan” is a decidedly discomfiting film about an obsessed young woman’s gradual descent into madness, her paranoid realities blurring together quite frighteningly. The ambitious but uptight ballerina Nina, magnificently portrayed by Natalie Portman, experiences inner turmoil after landing two much-coveted roles. Her mentor and boss, played by Vincent Cassel, sees her potential for duality; all she needs to do is embrace her uninhibited side.

Darren Aronofsky reins in his wildly abstract and flashy storytelling style and successfully paints a clear and well-composed picture. His unique visual touches add flair to the simple but effective dramatic moments. So no, it’s nothing like the puzzling “The Fountain,” structure-wise. The tightly written script also helps in establishing the fragile emotional state of tragic Nina, whose exceedingly unsettling bouts with depression are always revelatory.

The other really unhappy characters are Beth, played by Winona Ryder, a disgruntled and fading ballet star, and Nina’s mom, played by Barbara Hershey, who pushes her daughter to excel after giving up on her own dreams. Mila Kunis, however, portrays someone who’s far from sulky; her adventurous and playful Lily introduces Nina to her more reckless and dangerous side. If you didn’t take Kunis seriously before (she was from “That ‘70s Show,” yes), you certainly will after seeing this.

“Black Swan” opens Feb. 23 in Metro Manila.

Oh, That Aunt May

In the regular Marvel Universe, Aunt May Parker dated Doctor Octopus and Jarvis, and eventually married J. Jonah Jameson’s dad. In the comic strip written by Stan Lee, she wants to marry the Mole Man. Oh, man. She’s not very choosy in two Marvel realities. I saw this some weeks ago and it just made me laugh.

Gods and Supergods

A few of my fave higher beings from pantheons brought to life by Kirby, Simonson, Byrne, Gaiman, and others. Four new drawings.

Thor Circa 1987

Thor in battle armor, probably my favorite among his costumes. I saw this version in X-Factor (he had a two-page appearance, drawn by Walt Simonson) and Avengers (the issue where they beat up Zeus).

Orion, Son of Darkseid

He was badass during Morrison’s JLA run. He died thrice in a span of months, in three big event books, about three years ago.

Dream Meets Nightmare

DC and Marvel’s dream lords meet at a neutral realm between their kingdoms:

“If you wish to fight me, Nightmare, know that I am more powerful than the costumed mortals that bested you combined.”

“I cower before you, o mighty Morpheus, the warrior-king who spent seven decades trapped in some clumsy dabblers’ rank basement!”

Galactus Vs. Anti-Monitor

The devourer of worlds meets the destroyer of universes.

Counting the harrowing ‘Hours’

Danny Boyle’s mastery of the filmic language is especially evident in “127 Hours” that we get eloquent glimpses of nature adventurer Aron Ralston’s life, even when most of the movie takes place in a narrow, hidden corner of a Utah canyon.

Based on Ralston’s real and agonizing ordeal, “127 Hours” adroitly illustrates his time spent trapped and freeing himself from a boulder that pinned his hand. His tale is often told with bold visual gimmickry, flashy techniques that would look overly pretentious or laughable in less-talented directors’ hands. Trippy dreams, flashbacks, and hallucinations give us all we need to know about him when he’s stuck in that one spot and miserable.

James Franco’s performance is simply mesmerizing; he interprets Ralston with convincing humanity, from a person who’s one with the earth, to someone who expressively goes through the disconcerting stages of grief. And he transmits his desperation successfully especially when frustration-laced survival instincts kick in.

“127 Hours” opens in Metro Manila on Feb. 9.

Bouncy ‘Burlesque’

Pop songstresses Cher and Christian Aguilera star in the silly but somewhat endearing movie musical “Burlesque,” basically an amalgamation of generic plots involving the pursuit of dreams, but with more women clad in sexy lingerie.

So there’s Ali (Aguilera), the girl from Iowa, who sneaks her way into a waitressing job at an LA club owned by a motherly diva (Cher). The club’s scantily dressed dancers lip-synch to sultry tunes, but ambitious Ali eventually shares the stage with them and introduces some changes.

Practically everyone is assigned a perfunctory task and personality: friendly bartender is an aspiring songwriter (Cam Gigandet); inebriated and petulant star (Kristen Bell) gets catty and sabotage-y; the gay guy (Stanley Tucci) is the reliable shoulder to cry on. Cher disappears and reappears from time to time, her character worried about her business and whatnot. But it’s a respectable cast and the soundtrack is pleasant (Cher gets to sing a power ballad reminiscent of her late ‘80s songs and Aguilera flexes her pipes a couple of times). The romance subplot slows things down, though.

The film amuses, however, when it’s not trying to tell a story. Overall, it’s bouncy and brainless fun.

Routine ‘Rite’ of passage

Not as disturbing as the more iconic and influential films about possession that preceded it, “The Rite” adequately establishes the inner turmoil of a skeptical seminarian (Colin O’Donoghue) assigned to assist a seasoned exorcist (Anthony Hopkins). The other threats and conflicts, however, are routinely presented; it gets quite cheesy when expected confrontations and realizations happen. Hopkins isn’t entirely creepy when he needs to be, but the times he does succeed are memorable. O’Donoghue shows promise, giving some depth to an otherwise drab character.

The sweet, strong sound of woman power

(Published Jan. 29, PDI-Super)

Established female singers experimented and engaged in 2010

By Oliver M. Pulumbarit

Contributor

In 2010, several women made their formidable presence felt, and they continue to do so. Experimentation, exclusive perspectives, and eclectic influences characterize some of the better-sounding works by established female music artists:

Sarah McLachlan, “Laws of Illusion”

The more things change, the more Sarah McLachlan stays the same; not surprisingly, her latest songs are a reliable, comfortable map of emotional states. The Lilith Fair founder is still a precise, relevant, and gifted musician, capable of evoking the right emotions through finely crafted pop tunes. “Laws of Illusion” has more melodic and memorable creations than her previous studio album “Afterglow.”

Christina Aguilera, “Bionic”

A more subdued Christina Aguilera gets Gaga-esque with “Bionic,” mostly a pulsating dance album with a few distinct ballads. Using vocal gymnastics sparingly, but getting creative lyrically and musically, the more self-aware Aguilera revels in bleeping, layered soundscapes. She’s almost unrecognizable in “Elastic Love,” a new wave-ish number. But she still gets to cut loose in simpler and more vocal-driven tracks. She slows down with “Sex for Breakfast” and “All I Need,” both nice breathers from the senses-stimulating dance floor ditties. Often campy but daring, Aguilera enchants, embracing motherhood and other sides to her evolving personality.

Katy Perry, “Teenage Dream”

Losing none of her wit and her penchant for attention-baiting lyrics, Katy Perry delivers a solid follow-up to her hit album “One of the Boys.” Pop anthems “Teenage Dream” and “California Gurls” are easily among its most infectious songs. Perry gets wacky with the retro pop-sounding “Last Friday Night (TGIF)” and reaches out with two self-esteem songs, “Firework” and “Pearl.” Perry confidently sings with sensitivity and sensuality, a stronger and more focused artist this time around.

Norah Jones, “…Featuring Norah Jones”

Jazz chanteuse Norah Jones gets collaborative with cool and talented friends, ending up with a truly pleasant-sounding album. It’s mostly a collection of light duets, the chosen songs a lively mix of country, bossa nova, R&B, and fusions of different styles. Among the many standouts are “Baby, It’s Cold Outside” with Willie Nelson, “Dear John” with Ryan Adams, “Virginia Moon” with the Foo Fighters, and “More Than This” with Charlie Hunter.

Taylor Swift, “Speak Now”

More comfortable with expressing her feelings through songwriting than calling up exes, Taylor Swift unleashes a more mature collection of honest, heartwarming and scathing pop-country songs. Listeners who know or speculate about her relationships assume that some songs are dedicated to fellow celebs Cory Monteith, John Mayer, Taylor Lautner, and Joe Jonas. She also addresses other experiences; she sings about the Kanye West incident insightfully, and bashes an unnamed, boyfriend-stealing “actress” who’s “better known for the things that she does on the mattress.” From first to last track, “Speak Now” showcases Swift’s musical maturity while sharing juicy and intimate stories.

Natalie Merchant, “Leave Your Sleep”

Sensitive singer-songwriter and ex-10,000 Maniacs vocalist Natalie Merchant experiments with other people’s words, resulting in an audibly adventurous album. Merchant’s translations to music of mostly obscure poems and nursery rhymes make “Leave Your Sleep” a diverse set; styles utilized include reggae, bluegrass, and Chinese folk, among others. Merchant’s voice is still warm and versatile; in “Bleezer’s Ice Cream,” she clearly and playfully conjures up imagery of 28 “divine” flavors, while “If No One Ever Marries Me” is a soothing ballad illustrating a young woman’s plans should she stay single.

Lady Gaga, “The Fame Monster”

Love or loathe Lady Gaga’s attention-grabbing costumes and music videos, her “Fame Monster” is a collection of songs almost as otherworldly as her clothes and performances, and the eccentricity fascinates and hooks. “Fame Monster” has catchy dance-pop tunes, and easily mantra-fied lyrics. Whether she’s singing about some déjà vu-inspiring stranger in “Monster,” or the less-bouncy but emotionally charged “Speechless,” fearless Gaga pulls you into her uncompromising, sonically structured worlds.

Thundercats are Loose, Again

The Human Torch is dead (at least for now), another character died in the penultimate issue of Buffy Season 8, and some deceased Marvel heroes live again in the last chapter of Chaos War. I’m only affected by that last one; I hope that the resurrected characters are used properly now that they’re released from comic book limbo.

In other news, the Thundercats are back, ditching the spandex-y duds for a more anime-y look. Lion-O looks younger than his original incarnation, and the redesigns look less sexy, but I hope that it’s a good reboot, regardless. The show will air later this year on Cartoon Network. There will also be updated versions of sidekick characters Snarf, WilyKit and WilyKat, according to an MTV article.

‘The Good Wife’ is no damsel in distress

(Published Jan. 30, PDI-Entertainment)

By Oliver M. Pulumbarit

Contributor

Talented Julianna Margulies shines as Alicia Florrick, the wife of a philandering district attorney, in the intelligent courtroom drama series, “The Good Wife.”

Like some real wives whose politician-husbands’ adulterous affairs are exposed, Alicia is confronted with unwanted media attention and personal quandaries. Months after the sex scandal involving her spouse, she begins working for a prestigious Chicago law firm as a junior associate.

Alicia is recovering from the betrayal of her husband Peter Florrick (played admirably by “Sex and the City’s” Chris Noth), who is jailed for corruption. Her life has irrevocably changed—she has to prove herself a worthy new recruit while addressing the needs of her teen children, and dealing with disruptions stemming from her husband’s case.

Created by Robert and Michelle King, “The Good Wife” draws inspiration from headline-making scandals, and the resilience of women whose worlds are turned upside down by erring partners. Executive producers include filmmaker siblings Ridley and Tony Scott.

Margulies, previously known for her role in “ER,” astonishes with her portrayal of a constantly challenged wife, mother and professional; she’s vulnerable but collected, and often connects with the clients she defends. Known to most of them as “Mrs. Florrick,” Alicia’s tarnished celebrity status sometimes proves helpful during trials, and her bosses know it. Regardless, she’s an impressive lawyer who looks at angles unseen by most—thanks to her unique experiences—and is unafraid of contradicting judges when necessary.

As for the cases the firm handles, they’re not as compelling or as quirky and appealing as those in David E. Kelley’s “The Practice” and “Picket Fences,” but the simpler legal puzzles are executed competently and with finesse. Her colleagues help save the day—some strong female characters that complement the determined and outspoken Mrs. Florrick, who has proven herself a good wife and unrelenting survivor.

“The Good Wife” airs Mondays at 9 p.m. on Diva Universal.

‘Tangled,’ spangled

Rapunzel gets a makeover in Disney’s “Tangled,” an endearing, if highly routine re-interpretation of the Brothers Grimm’s classic tale. Like many Disney princesses, Rapunzel is tormented, only this girl is a prisoner of a hag who abducted her as an infant and poses as her overprotective single mother. The teen’s golden, untrimmed hair has healing properties, and has kept her “mother” perpetually young. Rapunzel is forbidden from leaving their doorless tower, which keeps imagined dangers away.

The songs, while not as catchy as Disney’s older fairy tale soundtracks, still enhance the storytelling. There are stock characters and situations; however, their inclusion is easily forgivable because of focused characterization.

Rapunzel’s love interest, Flynn, looks like a generic charming rogue, but he’s got a few secrets that make us understand his less-than-lawful ways. Also, the angry horse Maximus starts out as a bitter adversary to lawbreakers, but there’s more to it than that, and his personality is well-defined despite his inability to speak. The friendly barbarians, they’re typically quirky background characters, less-fleshed out and briefly utilized but useful story elements.

A rich color palette also helps in creating mesmerizing, mood-conducive environments. Rapunzel’s adventure has its twists and turns at expected intervals, and the sure and total recollection of her real identity is a bit iffy. Still, “Tangled” deserves to be seen and enjoyed; it’s a Disneyfied fairy tale, but it also pleasantly reminds us of the company’s beloved films from decades past.

"Tangled” opens Feb. 2 in Metro Manila.

Blogging, Etcetera

My original blog just recently turned six. Wow, it’s like time flew at superspeed. I’ve been looking at the archived entries and I find reading old posts a little surreal. Most posts I still stand by, some intimate posts about love and romance maybe not as much. I noticed a tendency to share how I felt without giving away too much, and I’d say I was more comfortable with talking about my emotions during the early years.

Much has happened, though it may not always appear that way. I’d like to think that I’m a better person now because of some challenges. Writing my blog entries sometimes helped me put into words the thoughts or feelings that I struggled with. As for my reviews, doing them started out as a job, but I began loving it early on, and I do like sharing my thoughts on different items here, along with my more personal entries. And reviewing stuff also helps me keep tabs on my style and structure.

There are events in my life, of course, that I choose not to document. I’m not the type who overshares, anyway. But I will blog stuff when it suits me. I’ll keep posting drawings worth sharing, too, here and elsewhere. To my readers, old and new, thanks for dropping by.

‘Hornet’ horses around

Bored party boy Britt Reid inherits a fortune and fights crime with his trusty mechanic Kato in the campy but amusing comedy-action flick “The Green Hornet,” re-imagined and starring Seth Rogen and Jay Chou as the new masked vigilantes.

While it only vaguely resembles its previous counterparts, this new “Green Hornet” transitions smoothly into its contemporary setting, jettisons its serious pulp hero trappings for a more cartoony but nonetheless sturdy reality, and works as a straightforward action-comedy. Now, the love triangle between Reid, Kato, and 30-something secretary Lenore (Cameron Diaz) feels forced, but she’s written competently even if she’s just someone who mostly fills in the blanks for the bungling, newbie crimefighter.

As for the archfoe, aging LA crimelord Chudnofsky (Christoph Waltz), he’s actually a badass, as those muscling in on his territory discover quickly. He’s quite two-dimensional, but he’s a necessary component to the comedic dynamic. And speaking of laughs, the boss-servant relationship between Reid and Kato evolves spiritedly into brotherly rapport; both characters get creative when they put their crime-stopping plans into motion, and often elicit hearty giggles in the process.

Darren, Chris

Aww, ain’t that sweet. The gay Glee boys get covered. Gifted half-Pinoy Darren Criss, a.k.a. new guy Blaine, and Chris Colfer, who was recently declared Golden Globe Best Supporting Actor for his Kurt character, share an upcoming Entertainment Weekly cover.

Long Live the Lost Legion

The Archie Legion! My fave version of the Legion of Super-Heroes, the post-Zero Hour team: Saturn Girl, Gates, M’Onel, Kinetix, Gear, Apparition, Ferro, Star Boy, Cosmic Boy, Dreamer, Spark, Karate Kid, Kid Quantum, Superboy, Shikari, Live Wire, Umbra, Chameleon, Sensor, XS, Wildfire, Ultra Boy, Invisible Kid, Brainiac 5, Violet, Andromeda, Triad, and Timber Wolf. Wish I could include Thunder, Monstress, RJ Brande, and Element Lad but space ran out. I hope to see this particular Legion again soon. This was drawn on two bristol boards (10.5” X 14”).

‘Hereafter’: Life after the afterlife

After the acclaimed sports/political biopic “Invictus,” Clint Eastwood works with Matt Damon anew. The new collaboration is the moving paranormal drama “Hereafter,” about a hesitant psychic and two other figures coping with separate tragedies. Damon plays George, who previously communicated with dead people. Marie (Cecile De France) is a French reporter who recalls experiencing a different state after dying for a few minutes, and Marcus (played by twins Georgie and Frankie McLaren) is an English kid looking for ways to reach his recently departed sibling.

“Hereafter” is moving and insightful. Three characters’ unrelated stories ultimately connect, their different encounters with death motivating each to find personal answers. George’s search for normalcy lets him experience satisfaction through a construction job and a cooking class; Marie pursues the truth about the afterlife she glimpsed; Marcus wishes to contact his brother, and approaches an assortment of questionable characters claiming to be clairvoyants.

De France and the twin actors give emotionally resonant performances, while Damon is more subdued, somewhat unrelatable as the troubled psychic. Adding nicely to the equation are Bryce Dallas Howard as George’s cooking companion, and Lyndsey Marshal (“Rome,” “Being Human”) as Marcus’ alcohol-addled mother.

It presents questions about life after death and paranormal phenomena that aren’t always clearly answered, but the mysteries are acceptably presented. The way the stories eventually converge could’ve been more dramatic and creative, but “Hereafter” nevertheless conveys its messages consistently, and sans hokiness.

“Hereafter” opens January 19 in Metro Manila.

‘Generator Rex’: Mighty machines, menacing monsters

(Published Jan. 9, PDI-Entertainment)

By Oliver M. Pulumbarit

Contributor

Nanites, or microscopic machines, transform an amnesiac teen into a superhero in the animated “Generator Rex,” created by the same team behind the hit cartoon series “Ben 10.”

Able to change his limbs into weaponry, communicate with machines, and sprout vehicular parts, 15-year-old Rex is the secret weapon tasked to fight or cure humans changed into mighty but mindless monsters. Nanites have been transforming people all over the globe, but the freakish EVOs (exponentially variegated organisms) are unable to control their new forms. Trained and unleashed by Providence (a well-funded organization dedicated to defending the earth against out-of-control EVOs), Rex is accompanied by martial arts expert Agent Six, smart monkey Bobo, and teen friend Noah.

Like the ongoing “Ben 10: Ultimate Alien,” “Generator Rex” is about a superpowered teen facing a variety of extraordinary threats, usually connected to the source of his special abilities. Aside from gigantic man-beasts, Rex is repeatedly confronted by a scheming foe, Van Kleiss, who claims to know the truth behind the planet-wide spread of the nanites.

The action-packed show sports nicely designed characters and introduces a simple but solid mythology. Co-created by the Man of Action team (consisting of comic book writers Joe Kelly, Joe Casey and Steven T. Seagle, and artist Duncan Rouleau), “Generator Rex” focuses on a smart teen who knows his heroic duties, but is known to enjoy his unique gifts at times, like “Ben 10’s” Ben Tennyson.

In the first episode (“The Day That Everything Changed”), Rex helps stop a rampaging creature, and later leaves the Providence base to have fun. He deliberately shows a group of teens his abilities, illustrating his need to belong and be accepted for being different.

But he’s accepted the fact that he’s far from normal and he needs to help free people from their nanite-mutated forms. In episode two (“String Theory”), Rex disobeys an order and must find a way to save a zombie-making EVO from Providence’s nuclear attack.

“Generator Rex” premieres today at 9 a.m., on Cartoon Network.

Incidental ‘Tourist’

The heist flick-romantic comedy “The Tourist” stars Angelina Jolie and Johnny Depp as flirty strangers being pursued across Venice by the law and thugs alike. The actors look good together but Jolie’s character is devoid of a discernible personality, and Depp’s is an iteration of his awkward leading man roles. It’s a pretty rudimentary, often superficial tour, and the developing romance being touted feels non-existent. It’s a pairing that doesn’t live up to its potential; maybe Depp and Jolie can work together again on something else eventually, perhaps give life to other characters that truly deserve their talents.

Hot Monsters

The Walking Dead cast members show some teeth. What a talented bunch, and a cool picture (thanks, ew.com!). Man, the second season is still nine months away.

‘Metanoia’: Might and mettle

The local animated fantasy-action movie “RPG Metanoia” pleasantly surprises with its imaginative and well-designed worlds; the online fantasy realm of Metanoia and the “real” Filipino environment where the protagonists reside are intricately and painstakingly rendered. Also surprising is the simple but tightly written adventure, about a boy who often feels more comfortable in the action-heavy virtual dimension than the real world.

“Metanoia’s” likeable, thoughtfully developed characters (voiced by actors Zaijan Jaranilla, Aga Muhlach and Eugene Domingo) and engaging action sequences impress repeatedly. Despite some imperfections (the characters’ strobey, slower movements in Metanoia, thin sound effects during battle scenes, and some mouth motions that don’t fit the words), it’s an exciting, inspiring endeavor that showcases Filipino artistry and imagination.

‘Gulliver’: Gargantuan déjà vu

The contemporary retelling of the classic tale is a family-friendly comedy centering on modern-day loser Lemuel Gulliver (Jack Black), an unambitious and complacent mail room clerk. He plagiarizes travel articles to impress a long-admired journalist (Amanda Peet), and soon finds himself shipwrecked on a land of tiny, understandably frightened people.

The lost giant “beast” also regales them with stories taken from Hollywood blockbusters, convincing them that they’re his own adventures. This new take on the old tale is very formulaic and utterly silly. It has some talented actors in it, including Peet, Emily Blunt, and Catherine Tate, who play requisite females doing routinely silly, inconsequential things. Messages are transmitted, but seizing the day and changing for the better feel like colossal chores this time.

"Gulliver’s Travels” opens Saturday, January 8, in Metro Manila.

Yearender, Apostrophe Ten

Pretty good year. In 2010, I:

- read dozens of comic books, and consider Avengers: Children’s Crusade, Invincible, Supergod, Mighty Avengers, Scott Pilgrim, Avengers Academy, Heroic Age: Heroes, Chew, X-Factor, Uncanny X-Force, Antman and the Wasp, Batman: The Return of Bruce Wayne, Hawkeye and Mockingbird, and Amazing Spider-Man 611 (guest-starring Deadpool!) among my faves.

- interviewed Dashboard Confessional, Cristine Reyes, Deborah Ann Woll, Michael C. Hall, and Bear Grylls, among others. Speaking of work, thanks to Ma’ams Emmie and Cora, and Pam for asking me to write stuff for the paper. And thanks to those who contacted and offered me other writing jobs.

- couch potatoed and enjoyed Walking Dead, Vampire Diaries, Phineas and Ferb, Being Human, True Blood, Modern Family, Legend of the Seeker, Doctor Who, Family Guy, and Conan.

- didn’t eat deep-fried and oily stuff for a month, lost some weight, but ate unhealthy food during the Christmas season. The dieting will resume, I hope, immediately after the holidays.

- watched dozens of movies and found Toy Story 3, Kick-Ass, Salt, The Fighter, Social Network, Inception, Let Me In, How to Train Your Dragon, and Where the Wild Things Are among the more memorable ones.

- added 68 illustrations to my art portfolio and online galleries. Cool that some of my drawings posted on DeviantArt get picked up and talked about by Tumblr bloggers too.

- kept blogging, except when busy with work or reeling from illness. But I’ll continue posting content written or illustrated by me, as often as possible. My sites won’t be changing to copy-pasting movie blogs any time soon.

- attended my sister’s wedding. I don’t normally attend family gatherings, but this, of course, was different. One of my cousins half-joked that it’s been 20 years since he last saw me; all he sees is my name on the paper.

- won a Where the Wild Things Are poster signed by the cast, and a Tron yoyo and baller band at preview screening raffles.

Again, my thanks to people who made 2010 a pleasant year. May 2011 be peaceful and more prosperous. Happy New Year, friends!

Ten Gay Comic Book Moments of 2010

Okay, some spoilers ahead. Some of the notable gay characters and scenes of the year, clockwise from upper left:

Rictor and Shatterstar talk about their relationship. The longtime lovers and bisexual X-Factor teammates finally discuss their complicated romance.

Aaron and Eric reveal themselves. These new Walking Dead characters share a kiss after surviving a traumatic encounter.

Krishna and Jerry Craven get smoochy. This one came out of nowhere, an odd but touching gesture from the final issue of Supergod.

Creote’s feelings for Savant are disclosed. They had some help from Oracle, who called Savant an “idiot” for not seeing the obvious.

Hercules is outed as bisexual. And he had a secret fling with Northstar.

Obsidian is “cured” of homosexuality. “Relax, folks. Only kidding. Still gay.”

Daken plants a wet one. Wolvie’s manipulative son makes his fellow Dark Avengers uneasy, especially Bullseye, and surprises him with a kiss during the Siege.

Young gay Avengers return. Billy and Teddy are still sweet, and they do sleep in one bed, as seen in that wholesome image.

Kevin Keller debuts. Clueless Veronica doesn’t know his preference, and Jughead doesn’t feel like telling her about it.

Stephen Stills is gay. He and Joseph are together, and the revelation stuns Scott Pilgrim.

Christmas Evolution

Congrats to my sister and my new brother-in-law. It was a beautiful wedding last Tuesday; I’m glad I was able to attend. Wearing a barong after over a decade initially felt strange, like I was cosplaying, but I’m happy to dress up in something formal for once and be part of that special occasion with the family.

So this is Christmas Eve. Yeah, I’m still agnostic. But I’ve mellowed a little. I still can’t abide the holier-than-thou religious leaders, but I’m happily discovering people belonging to religious groups who are thinking for themselves. As for the holiday season, I really like what Kitty Pryde said about celebrating it in a scene from Uncanny X-Men # 365.

Colossus: But Kitty, you are Jewish. You do not celebrate Christmas.

Kitty: Not as a religious holiday, but I still enjoy the festivities. I like the decorations and the songs and the presents.

That’s also how I feel about it. I’m reposting lyrics to one of my favorite non-traditional Christmas songs, which has a message that I’ve always liked. And yeah, here’s a collage of my recent Christmas drawings. So enjoy the season, be safe, and Happy Holidays, whichever they may be.

The Christians and the Pagans

Dar Williams

Amber called her uncle, said "We're up here for the holiday.
Jane and I, were having Solstice now, we need a place to stay."
And her Christ-loving uncle watched his wife hang Mary on a tree.
He watched his son hang candy canes all made with red dye number three.
He told his niece, "It's Christmas Eve, I know our life is not your style,"
She said, "Christmas is like Solstice, and we miss you and it's been awhile,"

So the Christians and the Pagans sat together at the table,
Finding faith and common ground the best that they were able.

And just before the meal was served, hands were held and prayers were said,
Sending hope for peace on earth to all their gods and goddesses.

The food was great, the tree plugged in, the meal had gone without a hitch,
Till Timmy turned to Amber and said, "Is it true that you're a witch?"
His mom jumped up and said, "The pies are burning," and she hit the kitchen,
And it was Jane who spoke, she said, "It's true, your cousin's not a Christian,"
"But we love trees, we love the snow, the friends we have, the world we share,
And you find magic from your God, and we find magic everywhere."

So the Christians and the Pagans sat together at the table,
Finding faith and common ground the best that they were able,

And where does magic come from? I think magic's in the learning,
'Cause now when Christians sit with Pagans only pumpkin pies are burning.

When Amber tried to do the dishes, her aunt said, "Really, no, don't bother."
Amber's uncle saw how Amber looked like Tim and like her father.
He thought about his brother, how they hadn't spoken in a year,
He thought he'd call him up and say, "It's Christmas and your daughter's here."
He thought of fathers, sons and brothers, saw his own son tug his sleeve, saying,
"Can I be a Pagan?" Dad said, "We'll discuss it when they leave."

So the Christians and the Pagans sat together at the table,
Finding faith and common ground the best that they were able,

Lighting trees in darkness, learning new ways from the old, and
Making sense of history and drawing warmth out of the cold.

Flashy, eye-popping ‘Tron: Legacy’

As expected, the sequel to the 1982 science fiction flick ‘Tron’ is flashy, thanks mostly to the vast improvements in special effects technology and digital wizardry. The hidden dimension is appropriately more luminous and trippy in “Tron: Legacy,” a dazzling popcorn flick that continues the story of vanished programmer Kevin Flynn (Jeff Bridges), whose now-adult son Sam (Garrett Hedlund) finds himself in the Grid cyber-realm ruled by Flynn’s powerful doppelganger Clu.

“Legacy” re-introduces the Tron world comprehensibly enough with an accessible adventure and a likeable rebel-saboteur hero. The effects enthrall; it’s hard not to like the light-trimmed cycles, uniforms and deadly “frisbee” duels. Not all effects-enhanced scenes impress, however. One pivotal aerial battle is a watered-down and unexciting rehash of the Millennium Falcon-Tie Fighters confrontation. And speaking of effects, the more youthful-looking Bridges possesses an obvious fakeness that gets distracting.

Daft Punk’s riveting electronic music rightly complements the eye-popping imagery. Interesting god-man analogies describe the Flynn-Clu relationship throughout the story, but the rebellion being pulled off by just a handful of improvising renegades isn’t very convincing. Still, the stylishly designed sequel is worth seeing on the big screen in all its pulsating, glow-in-the-dark glory.

“Tron: Legacy” is currently in Metro Manila cinemas, and will be exclusively screened at Imax theaters during Christmas week/the MMFF period.

An ‘Empire’ rises

(Published Dec. 20, PDI-Entretainment)

By Oliver M. Pulumbarit

Contributor

The promising HBO period drama-crime series “Boardwalk Empire,” created by “The Sopranos” writer Terence Winter, lavishly illustrates the circuitous world of Prohibition-era Atlantic City, New Jersey.

The banning of the manufacture, importation and sale of alcohol in 1920 inspires opportunistic gangs to smuggle or bootleg liquor. One schemer is Atlantic City’s charismatic and chameleon-like treasurer, Enoch “Nucky” Thompson (Steve Buscemi), who effortlessly blends in at anti-liquor meetings and covert gangster gatherings alike.

Law-abiding one minute and law-breaking the next, influential Nucky has no problem with embellishing the truth. He wins over members of the Women’s Temperance League in a matter of minutes with an emotive speech. “First rule of politics,” Nucky tells his confidant and right-hand man Jimmy Darmody (Michael Pitt), “never let the truth get in the way of a good story.”

Inspired by Nelson Johnson’s non-fiction book of the same title, “Boardwalk Empire” has a roster of executive producers that includes Martin Scorsese and Mark Wahlberg. Scorsese also directed the series’ first episode, which firmly establishes the main characters’ motivations and relationships. Atlantic City’s Boardwalk is immediately depicted as startlingly conflicted; like most thriving hubs of any era, it’s where the desperate, the ambitious, and the resourceful converge.

Nucky and Jimmy’s perspectives offer revealing sides to a complex web of deceit and opportunism; they adapt quickly, are compassionate, and can be merciless. Buscemi and Pitt impressively convey differing complexities and a rich spectrum of emotions.

“Boardwalk Empire,” while not breaking new ground with gritty realism and its portrayal of criminal power struggles, still intrigues and transports with its visually resplendent recreation of a bygone era’s defiant empire.

Two episodes of “Boardwalk Empire” will air on Jan. 6, 9 p.m., on HBO. Subsequent episodes air Thursdays, 9 p.m.

Pinoy comics’ pride and possibilities

(Published Dec. 18, PDI-Super)

By Oliver M. Pulumbarit

Contributor

The local comic book industry has evolved dramatically in the last couple of years. The weekly newsprint “komiks” are gone, but the number of independent comic book creators who bring their vision to their own publications continues to grow.

Filipino-made comics are alive, kicking, and here to stay, according to three of indie movement Alamat’s most successful creators, Gerry Alanguilan (writer-artist of the acclaimed “Elmer”), Budjette Tan (author of 2009 National Book Award-winning “Trese”), and Carlo Vergara (creator of the multimedia sensation “Zsazsa Zaturnnah”).


How different is the local comic book scene now, and how have creators and readers changed?

Alanguilan: The huge difference today is most comics are self-published by the writers and artists themselves. When all those huge komiks companies died out or stopped publishing, they left the local creators with little option. Did the writers and artists go off and do something else now that there are no companies to hire them? Some of them did, but seemingly beyond belief, other creators started taking money out of their own pockets to fund for the publication of their own comic book. They made them, had them printed or photocopied, and they themselves distributed their comics. The self-publishing creator can produce 10 to 1,000 copies, and sell them for 50 pesos at stores and comic book events. That has recently become the norm.

Tan: I think we’ve got a great mix of comic book creators with different influences in their work, from American comics to Japanese cartoons, to stuff that is just downright original. As far as readers are concerned, I think the Pinoy comic book reader is hungry to see more original works. Looking at the Internet buzz and from the people we meet during Komikon, many are excited to pick up new titles and would often bug us, asking when the next issue is coming out. It’s just up to the comic book creators to produce more comics.

Vergara: The local comic book scene is growing, though the focus appears to be more on the indie scene. I have the impression that interest in the manga style of stories and art is dwindling, and the newer creators are trying out new ideas and approaches in terms of story and art. The emergence of conventions in recent years in various parts of the country has helped a lot in encouraging these creators to invest time and effort in telling their stories.

Other creators are trying their hand at producing digital comics, or comics to be read through the Web, though I feel that we’re still pretty much print-based. The main advantage of digital comics is the prospect of attracting a global audience, and it could be that Pinoy comics creators who are going digital shape their stories to appeal to this audience. As far as readership goes, create stories that resonate with Filipinos and Filipinos will support it. The key, really, is zeroing in on unique, innovative, but very accessible stories.

What are your thoughts on the current generation of local artists working for American companies?

Alanguilan: Artists who work for US companies (I’m one of them) only do so because nobody would hire us here in the Philippines. There are no more comics companies who would hire artists to draw comics. So rather than stay here and do nothing, we look for employment elsewhere. When a rich guy or company establishes a comic book company in the Philippines who will give us artistic freedom and pay us well, many of us would stay and work here.

And besides, we’re planting the Philippine flag in some of America’s biggest comic books. If these were movies, it’s like seeing Filipino actors in big Hollywood blockbusters. Modesty aside, we bring great honor to this country by being the best in the world, and by promoting Filipinos and the Philippines in a positive light.

Vergara: I’m particularly excited about the growing number of Pinoys who are based here but work for the US comics companies. Apart from being a testament to the artistic caliber of Pinoys, this development can help jumpstart the education of budding artists on “best practices” when it comes to making commercial comics.

Tan: I’m amazed at how many Pinoys are now drawing comics for Marvel, DC, and Dark Horse. I think this is the most number of Pinoys we’ve had working for those companies. How does that compare to the likes of Nestor Redondo, Alfredo Alcala, Ernie Chan, Tony de Zuniga, and all those great artists of the ’70s and ’80s? I think this current batch also offers distinct and unique art styles that have impressed American comic book readers as well as fans around the world. The newer artists leave little easter eggs for Pinoys, or as I call them “balut eggs,” surprising little jokes like Wolverine drinking San Miguel Beer, and Darkhawk wearing a Manny Pacquiao shirt. And thanks to the net, Pinoy readers and aspiring comic book artists are now aware that their favorite comic book titles are drawn by Pinoys living in the Philippines, which can be very inspiring for readers and artists alike.

Please name some young/new Filipino creators whose works have gotten you excited.

Tan: Andrew Drilon has done a couple of online comic book stories for Top Shelf, got rave reviews from Matt Fraction and Warren Ellis for his “Kare-Kare Komiks,” and that’s why I’m looking forward to his horror graphic novel “Black Clouds.” Mervin Malonzo is another writer/artist who’s starting out on the net with his webcomic “Tabi Po,” one of the few new comics written in Filipino. Paolo Fabregas’ “Filipino Heroes League” will be published by Visprint next year and it’s one of the graphic novels that I’m excited to see in published form. It’s funny and thought-provoking!

Comfort and Joy 2

Three drawings, set 2 of 2. Safe and happy holidays, friends.

Happy Runaways

Chase, Gert, Old Lace, Xavin, Karolina, Victor, Klara, Molly and Nico find a rare moment of peace, and wish each other holiday cheer.

Snowglobe Sandman

Dream takes a holiday. Snowy snowy.

Imps Kringle

DC and Marvel’s cartoony and malleable tricksters enjoy the holidays. Mr. Mxyzptlk and Bat-Mite are about to exchange gifts, while the Impossible Man and Impossible Woman bring a few of their Impossible Kids to Santa Plas, assisted by his little helper Offspring. Thunderbolt Ylzkz and Morph decorate the Warlock Christmas tree, while Slapstick is giving away candy canes. Madcap is holding an empty box, but hopes to mesmerize Slapstick into believing that it’s the best present ever.

Comfort and Joy

Happy Holidays! Five new drawings.

Snow Patrol Spidey

Peter and Felicia stay warm on a snowy night. I love Pete and MJ together, but I really like this fun and sexy couple.

X-Force, X-Mas 1992

The ‘90s mutant rebels celebrate Christmas in the IPAC. I like this roster; this was the team after Cable’s disappearance and their costumes were nicely redesigned by Greg Capullo. I remember the Cannonball-led X-Force leaving Xavier’s School in the title’s December 1992 issue, and in this drawing, I imagine them spending a quiet Christmas together after a mission. Yeah, they didn’t notice Ric and Shatterstar getting chummy all those years ago.

You’re a Dear One, Mr. Grimm

It’s cuddling time! Ben Grimm and Alicia Masters, among the most enduring Beauty and the Beast-ish pairings in the Marvel Universe.

12 Bats A-Singing

Bat Caroling! Damian Wayne, Dick Grayson, Bruce Wayne, Jason Todd, Cassandra Cain, Kate Kane, Helena Bertinelli, Stephanie Brown, Jean-Paul Valley, Barbara Gordon, Alfred Pennyworth and Tim Drake form a Bat Choir. I imagine them doing a medley of “Happy X-Mas (War is Over),” “River,” “The Christians and the Pagans,” and of course, “The 12 Days of Christmas.” Happy Holidays, Bat-Fans!

Herc and Northstar: Winter Fun

“Ho, friend Northstar! Mayhap ‘tis best if thou stayest in Avengers Mansion until yon snowstorm hath passed!”

“But it’s not a snowstorm, Hercules… I mean, of course, mon ami!”

Yup, they hooked up, as implied in Hercules: Fall of an Avenger a few months ago. I’m a little surprised that nobody’s done and posted fan drawings of the secret lovers on DeviantArt yet. So here’s one. They probably got tryst-y after an Avengers-Alpha Flight Christmas party.

1985: A very good year for comic books

(Published December 11, PDI-Super)

By Oliver M. Pulumbarit

Contributor

(This week, Super travels back in time to show you what our pages would have looked like if we had been around in 1985, when the Inquirer was first born. Forget that it's 2010, forget your mobile phone (nobody's texting you - it's 1985!), forget Justin Bieber and Miley Cyrus and find out what was hot in 1985.)

Welcome to the last few weeks of 1985! What an exciting year it’s been for comic books and comic book readers.

The art form continues to provide escapism and, in some cases, reflections of the times. It’s now being taken more seriously by nonfans, and is being appreciated by a growing number of geeks, from the “Choose Your Own Adventure”-reading set to the more mature devotees of Heavy Metal magazine.

Local comic anthologies or komiks and some magazines offer a weekly respite from real-world concerns with its comedy, adventure and romance serials; publications like “Wakasan,” “Funny Komiks” and “Liwayway” are among a multitude of successful titles available almost everywhere.

American comics continue to amaze Filipino readers, who get their reading fix via a few specialty shops in Greenhills and Makati, and various bookstores and supermarkets that sell more random selections. In these increasingly troubling and unstable times, you lose yourself in these wondrous, imaginative worlds faster than you can say “Snap elections!”

Readers introduced to the DC and Marvel universes years back and are currently following their favorite iconic heroes will attest that 1985 has been a very good year for fans of costumed crimefighters.

The recently concluded epic “Crisis on Infinite Earths” by Marv Wolfman and George Perez fixed decades of continuity problems and replaced the DC Multiverse with a single, definitive reality. Some of the title’s most shocking casualties include popular heroes Supergirl and the Flash, who died heroically in issues 7 and 8, respectively.

Marvel had a less earth-shaking event, but Jim Shooter and Steve Leialoha’s “Secret Wars II” intriguingly chronicled the omnipotent Beyonder’s eventful journey, from trying to fit in with humans (and superhumans) to getting fed up with them. The character made his presence felt in a number of tie-ins, his fights with the new Phoenix (a.k.a. Rachel Summers) and Marvel’s cosmic entities among the more memorable super-conflicts.

Speaking of the Phoenix force, there’s a third mutant book out now! “X-Factor” stars the original X-Men, including Jean Grey, revealed as someone separate from the deceased original Phoenix. Fans are stoked and waiting for the eventual meeting between the team and erstwhile allies from the “Uncanny X-Men” book, which now has reformed arch-foe Magneto as a regular character.

One of the year’s most unique superhero stories is “X-Men: Heroes for Hope,” Marvel’s version of “We Are the World.” This single-issue benefit book brought together creators like Stan Lee, Chris Claremont, John Byrne, Alan Moore, Jim Starlin, Louise Simonson and John Buscema, among many others. The X-Men find themselves attacked by an ancient psychic creature from Africa, and in the course of hunting for their adversary, the mutant heroes help out relief efforts by feeding people in the famine-stricken region.

The aforementioned Moore, by the way, gave horror fans a thrilling year with his reinvention of the muck-monster Swamp Thing. In the unforgettable “Swamp Thing Annual # 2,” the titular character rescued the wrongly condemned Abigail Arcane from hell with help from some of DC’s enigmatic mystical beings. Let’s hope the writer is given more characters to revamp, and tells more disturbing, mind-blowing tales.

Let’s get prescient for a minute and ponder the state of comic books two decades or so from today:

Perhaps comic books will inspire big, respectable and faithful movie or TV adaptations, and will spawn sought-after merchandise like fully articulated action figures and more visually striking video games. Maybe journalists and writers from other media like television and films can become lauded comic book authors. Maybe school libraries will consider comics a legit form of literature, too.

Perhaps there will be openly gay and lesbian heroes (and villains), as well as more racially diverse superhero teams. Comic books will probably be really expensive by then, but they should be printed on better paper, and colored more precisely and vividly.

Maybe by that time, technology will allow comics to be read on portable computers, or will allow fans to talk about them and their creators. Maybe there will be independent, alternative Filipino comic books that offer fresh new stories, and also a new wave of Filipino artists illustrating American comic books, like in the ’70s and ’80s.

We can only imagine what the future might bring for comic books. Things have gotten serious and periodically bleak lately because of real-life local and global upheavals, but comic books will definitely remain a source of entertainment, and center on the glorious and otherworldly exploits of men, women, robots, funny animals and what-have-you.

So if you’re giving in to your godchildren’s demands by getting them Voltron toys or She-Ra dolls, make sure you give them a good comic book or three as well. Introduce them to worlds worth sharing, and stories worth remembering.

Ah, 1985, a pretty amazing year for comic books, heralding bigger, better and more fantastic things ahead.

Star Movies celebrates ‘passion for Hollywood movies’

(Published Dec. 9, PDI-Entertainment)

By Oliver M. Pulumbarit

Contributor

Movie buffs and members of the media recently converged at Resorts World Manila in Pasay City for events organized by cable channel Star Movies. A 14-hour movie marathon required 100 contestants to watch several flicks nonstop at the Newport Cinema, while a media appreciation dinner was held at the Red Crab restaurant later that day.

“The marathon celebrated the Filipino’s passion for Hollywood movies, and also showcased the state-of-the-art movie theater facilities of Resorts World,” said Fox International Channels’ territory director Jude Turcuato.

The 100 movie marathoners/promo participants were randomly chosen. They were given food and drinks, but were not allowed any bathroom breaks within the 14-hour, five-movie span. Films like “The Godfather,” “G.I. Joe,” and “Indiana Jones and the Last Crusade” were screened.

“Participants were chosen from the almost 50,000 e-mail entries for the promotion,” Turcuato said. The objective is to endure watching multiple movies in the theater without giving in to the call of nature.

A cash prize of P100,000 was split among 16 winners by the end of the marathon.

Turcuato revealed that Star Movies is currently faring well, enjoying an increase in local viewers.

“Star Movies has 20 percent more viewers this year compared to last year, and competes head to head with HBO in leadership among movie channels,” he said. “It is consistently in the top 10 among all cable channels, and is the highest rated English cable channel that accepts advertising.”

Star Movies viewers can look forward to the airing of “Twilight: Eclipse,” “Alice in Wonderland,” and “Toy Story 3” in the coming months, Turcuato added. The channel will be revamping its “on-air look” and will be having more contests, among other things, to attract more viewers.

“In the past two years, Star Movies has inked exclusive partnerships for Asia with the biggest studios like 20th Century Fox and Disney to showcase the most popular titles available. Star Movies is also working in unison with the other channels and the major cable operators to fight piracy by using better encryption methods and putting out more compelling content. On the local end, promotions such as the movie marathon create more reasons for our viewers to enjoy our movies instead of watching pirated content.”

‘The Walking Dead’: Zombie spectacle, scarred survivors

(Published Dec. 6, PDI-Entertainment)

By Oliver M. Pulumbarit

Contributor

The horror-drama series “The Walking Dead,” developed by filmmaker Frank Darabont, depicts a bleak world swarmed by hungry zombies. Based on the critically acclaimed comic book written by Robert Kirkman, the TV series incredibly recreates the essence of the source material, while introducing some new characters and situations that keep the concept fresh and unpredictable.

It follows the post-apocalyptic activities of a small band of survivors in Atlanta, led by cop Rick Grimes (Brit actor Andrew Lincoln), who is believed dead by his wife Lori (Sarah Wayne Callies) and son Carl (Chandler Riggs).

Like the comic book, the show focuses on the uneasy alliance between traumatized humans, who must constantly evade the undead and scavenge for food and supplies.

The first “Walking Dead” episode aired simultaneously on four cable channels, a few days after airing in the United States. The show debuted impressively, with an estimated 5.3 million viewers tuning in for the season opener last Halloween. Its success in 120 countries has already guaranteed a second season next year.

Darabont “can’t wait” to get to certain story lines and two important characters from the comics, according to reports. “Walking Dead” presents an eerie, almost agoraphobic atmosphere; the zombies clogging up city streets are extra-menacing, thanks to grotesque prosthetics and tight “choreography” (go online and check out how “WD” extras are trained in “zombie school”).

Dramatic moments are just as memorable. Whether it’s Rick tearfully reuniting with his family, or other characters remembering life before the zombie onslaught, the quieter scenes substantiate, and are accessible. “Walking Dead” also examines human behavior; this harshly changed world has scarred the survivors differently. Some in Rick’s small group are alpha males, and that dynamic has proven problematic to their coexistence. And some survivors are already dangerous in their own ways, threatening to destroy the fragile new community in ways that the relentless zombies can’t.

“The Walking Dead” airs Fridays, 11 p.m., on FX. The season finale will air on Dec. 10, while the season one marathon will air on Dec. 18, 11:10 p.m.

Things Are Gonna Get Easier

Pixar’s gay and lesbian employees reach out to bullied and suicidal gay kids. Thank you, Gini Cruz Santos and company.

I interviewed Gini back in 2004, when she was in the country promoting “The Incredibles.” I emailed her after seeing this video yesterday. She elaborated on her involvement:

“Yes, I am a lesbian. If I didn't hang on when I was growing up, I would have missed what the Lord had planned for my life. I am very proud to say that I am a Christian and I am gay.”

“Please spread the word about this kind of tragedy that has been happening. Thanks for posting on your blog.”

Maudlin ‘Monsters’

Not a typical sci fi-alien invasion flick, “Monsters” focuses on two Americans (Whitney Able, Scoot McNairy) trying to get home by traversing an area in Mexico inhabited by giant tentacled extraterrestrials. The stranded aliens-on-earth scenario initially reminds one of last year’s science fiction-actioner “District 9,” but the similarities end there. “Monsters” is very simple; it may frustrate those expecting more traditional man versus monster situations. The human drama involves but feels forced sometimes; the alien creatures make their presence felt a few times, but it really is about two different people who come to important realizations while trying to survive together.

Wet ‘Dawn’

Not as visually striking as “The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe,” nor as dark and action-packed as “Prince Caspian,” “The Chronicles of Narnia: Voyage of the Dawn Treader” is still a magical journey, albeit a less captivating one. Younger Pevensie siblings Lucy and Edmund (Georgie Henley and Skandar Keynes) return to fabled Narnia with their insufferable cousin Eustace (Will Poulter), and join King Caspian (Ben Barnes) on a sea adventure aboard the mighty Dawn Treader.

The changed dynamics give this film a sad vibe; the older Pevensies aren’t part of the adventure anymore and are living somewhere in America (the actors appear briefly in a dream sequence). While the previous rapport is much-missed, Lucy and Edmund have grown up and are given their time to shine. Oddly, after reaching a certain age, humans are barred from entering the magical realm, like the older siblings.

“Dawn Treader” has fewer fantastical creatures than previous parts, but there’s a cool-looking dragon, as well as a sea serpent that’s both fascinating and menacing. The tale could’ve been more solid and focused; some new characters with seeming importance appear quickly and are never seen again, while others linger but don’t really add anything to the story. The big epic (land) battles are also missed. Still, “Dawn Treader” sails bravely from one conflict to the next, even when it’s not always clear what the heroes are fighting for this time.

Making the List

My thanks to Budjette Tan for including Lexy, Nance & Argus in his article Required reading: 25 Pinoy Comic Books, which enumerates notable titles released in the last ten years:

Lexy, Nance, and Argus: Sex, Gods, Rock & Roll by Oliver Pulumbarit

Reading this comic book will remind of “Friends” or “How I Met Your Mother,” except there’s just three of them, and one of them is gay and the other one is bi and the third one is … discovering a lot of things about himself and his friends.

Read his full article here.

Exclusive ‘Academy’

Christos Gage and Mike McKone introduce the Avengers’ first batch of students, possible future heroes and Avengers, but are actually traumatized young super-beings with the potential to be villains. The “Avengers Academy” series is intriguing, blending new concepts with more “traditional” Avengers lore. Tortured or manipulated by Norman Osborn, Reptil and newer characters Mettle, Finesse, Hazmat, Veil, and Striker form an interesting and unpredictable group, and are currently trained by similarly “damaged” mentors like Hank Pym, Tigra, Justice, Quicksilver and Speedball. The first arc is insightful and told well, exploring the mindset of a student per issue. Ape X (Roy Reyna) from “Marvel Apes” would make a great addition to this team, as he was also a victim of Osborn’s regime.

Recovery

Was sick for a few days last week, but I’m feeling much better now. Also, the computer was broken, so I haven’t blogged in a while. I wasn’t able to, also because I was busy finishing a project that last week of November. Anyway, computer’s all better, and I’m gonna be posting stuff again. Wow, it’s December already.