Brad Kern

  In a world saturated with digital distractions and quick-fix entertainment options, the timeless allure of comic books remains remarkably steadfast. However, as any caped crusader will tell you, even superheroes face challenges, and so does the comic book industry. Yet, despite the hurdles, the importance of passing this storytelling medium to the next generation can hardly be overstated. The Many Challenges: A Saga of Struggle Digitalization Comic Book stores were once magical realms where fans could congregate, debate, and discover new universes on the pages of comic books. However, with the rise of digital platforms, the allure of these once-cherished physical spaces is dwindling. Digital comics offer convenience, and in an era of immediate gratification, this often wins over the tactile pleasure of flipping through a paper comic. Piracy Piracy is the arch-nemesis of many creative industries, and comic books are no exception. Unlawful digital distribution platforms make it increas

  The year 2014 was a watershed moment for college football in America. That was the year when the Bowl Championship Series (BCS) system was retired, making way for the inaugural College Football Playoff (CFP) era. As the dust settled, it was the Ohio State Buckeyes who emerged as the first-ever CFP National Champions, marking a new chapter in their storied history. The Preseason Uncertainties The season was fraught with challenges and uncertainties for Ohio State. The team’s star quarterback, Braxton Miller, was ruled out for the entire season due to a shoulder injury. It seemed like Ohio State’s championship dreams had already been dashed before the first snap of the ball. However, head coach Urban Meyer had other plans. Insert J.T. Barrett as the starting quarterback, and let’s not forget Cardale Jones, who would later become one of the heroes of the postseason. The Regular Season Roller Coaster The Buckeyes started their season with a win but stumbled in week two against Virginia T

  The NeverEnding Story Wanted to take a deeper look at one of my all-time favorite movies and how it so uniquely handles the hero’s journey and intertwines so many different story telling concepts. The concept of the Hero’s Journey has long been a narrative staple, popularized by mythologist Joseph Campbell’s “The Hero with a Thousand Faces.” In this structural framework, the hero undergoes various stages such as the “Call to Adventure,” “Meeting with the Mentor,” and the “Return,” navigating trials and transformations along the way. However, Wolfgang Petersen’s 1984 film adaptation of Michael Ende’s novel “The NeverEnding Story” takes this archetypal storyline and adds another intriguing layer: breaking the fourth wall. This combination creates a unique storytelling experience, transcending the boundaries of fantasy and reality. The Hero’s Journey in Fantasia The primary story arc of “The NeverEnding Story” centers around Atreyu, a young warrior from the fantastical world of Fantasia

  In the hypercompetitive world of college football, the mantra often seems to be, “What have you done for me lately?” Nowhere is this more evident than among the fan bases of powerhouse programs like Ohio State. For these communities, a good season isn’t good enough; they demand championships. Anything short of winning it all is often considered a failure — a disappointment that fuels hot takes, social media tirades, and even calls for coaching changes. Let’s delve into the intense, ever-demanding landscape of college football fandom in the modern era. The Weight of Tradition Teams like Ohio State carry the weight of a long and storied history, peppered with Heisman Trophies, national titles, and legendary coaches. This illustrious past is both a blessing and a curse. It endows the program with a rich tradition and a massive, devoted fan base. However, it also sets exceptionally high standards. A 10-win season without a national title can be seen as a letdown, and losing to arch-rival