Brad Kern

  The rise of artificial intelligence (AI) has sparked significant debate across various industries, and the world of comic book art is no exception. While AI’s potential to enhance creativity and streamline certain processes is acknowledged, it has also raised profound concerns among comic book artists. The advent of AI-driven tools capable of generating art poses a direct challenge to the traditional roles and creative integrity of artists in this field. As AI continues to evolve, the threat it poses to comic book artists becomes increasingly apparent, prompting a critical examination of the implications for the industry. The Evolution of AI in Art AI’s role in the creative arts has expanded dramatically in recent years. What began as rudimentary algorithms capable of generating basic shapes and patterns has now evolved into sophisticated models capable of producing intricate and detailed artwork. Programs like DALL-E, Midjourney, and others can generate complex images from simple te

  Post-apocalyptic fiction, with its bleak landscapes and tales of survival, has consistently captivated audiences for decades. This genre, often exploring the aftermath of catastrophic events, offers readers and viewers a unique lens through which to examine humanity, society, and the resilience of the human spirit. The enduring popularity of post-apocalyptic fiction can be attributed to several factors, including its ability to provide social commentary, its exploration of human nature, its thrilling and suspenseful narratives, and its capacity for world-building and escapism. Social Commentary and Reflection One of the most compelling aspects of post-apocalyptic fiction is its capacity to serve as a mirror to contemporary society. Authors and filmmakers use dystopian and post-apocalyptic settings to critique current political, social, and environmental issues. By projecting current fears and anxieties into a devastated future, creators can address complex topics in a way that is bot

  Image Credits: Marvel Comics Wolverine, one of Marvel’s most iconic characters, has left an indelible mark on the world of comics since his debut in 1974. Known for his adamantium claws, regenerative healing factor, and rugged demeanor, Wolverine has captivated readers with his complex personality and gripping storylines. Over the years, numerous writers and artists have explored the depths of Logan’s character, producing some of the most memorable and influential comics in Marvel’s history. We covered Deadpool last time (and since the new Deadpool and Wolverine movie is almost out, we figured now’s the best time to write a Wolverine article! We’ll delve into the best Wolverine comics of all time, celebrating the stories that have defined this legendary mutant. Wolverine: Weapon X (1991) Barry Windsor-Smith’s “Weapon X” is an essential read for any Wolverine fan. This storyline, originally serialized in Marvel Comics Presents, delves into the harrowing origins of Wolverine’s adamanti

  Image Credits: Marvel Comics Deadpool, the Merc with a Mouth, is one of the most unique and beloved characters in the Marvel Universe. His irreverent humor, meta-awareness, and penchant for breaking the fourth wall have made him a fan favorite since his debut in the early '90s. Over the years, numerous writers and artists have contributed to his legend, producing some of the most memorable and entertaining stories in comic book history. Here, we explore the best Deadpool comics of all time, highlighting the issues and story arcs that have defined this iconic anti-hero. Deadpool: The Circle Chase (1993) "The Circle Chase" is where it all began. Written by Fabian Nicieza and illustrated by Joe Madureira, this four-issue miniseries marks Deadpool's first solo outing. The story follows Deadpool as he competes against a host of mercenaries, including familiar faces like Juggernaut and Black Tom Cassidy, to claim a powerful prize. This series is essential for any Deadpool

  Collecting comic books is a cherished hobby for many enthusiasts, with older issues often holding significant sentimental and monetary value. Preserving these treasures for future generations requires meticulous care and attention. This guide offers professional advice on maintaining and protecting older comic books, ensuring they remain in pristine condition for years to come. Understanding the Importance of Comic Book Preservation Comic books are more than just entertainment; they are cultural artifacts that reflect the artistic and literary trends of their times. Older issues, in particular, can be quite rare and valuable, making their preservation essential. Proper care not only maintains their condition but also enhances their value, both financially and historically. Handling and Reading Comic Books One of the most critical aspects of comic book preservation is proper handling. Oils and dirt from hands can transfer to the pages, causing deterioration over time. Here are some ti

  As a comic book enthusiast, you understand the immense value that these graphic stories hold, not just monetarily but also emotionally and historically. Preserving the condition of your comic books ensures that they can be enjoyed for generations to come, potentially increasing their value over time. Proper care involves understanding the various aspects of storage, handling, and maintenance. This guide will provide a comprehensive overview of the best practices for maintaining your comic book collection. Storage Solutions The first step in preserving comic books is proper storage. Comic books are highly susceptible to damage from environmental factors such as light, temperature, and humidity. Therefore, storing them in a controlled environment is crucial. 1. Use of Polypropylene Bags and Backing Boards — One of the most effective ways to protect individual comic books is by using polypropylene bags and acid-free backing boards. The bags protect the comic book from dust, moisture, an

  Comic books have always been a vibrant and influential medium that has captured its readers through its unique mix of visual art and compelling stories. The attraction to create comic book is particularly strong for those who appreciate this art form. Writing comic books isn’t just for experienced writers or professional artists; it’s a rewarding and accessible venture for anyone who loves storytelling. Here are some reasons why you should consider writing comic books. The Unique Storytelling Medium Comic books tell stories in a format that’s different from any other form of narrative art — they combine visual arts with words. Because of this hybridity, creators can communicate narratives in ways no other media allow them to do so. The interaction between images and text can generate intense emotional experiences, making the story more immersive and captivating. Unlike traditional prose where readers have to fill the gaps with their imagination, every page of a comic book presents a

  The failure of movie adaptations of comic book series is a question that has become rather hot recently. Movie adaptations of comic book series have been flooding the market in recent years. Although a few of them have done well both critically and commercially, many have fallen flat as they haven’t captured what made the comics loveable by fans in the first place. So, why do movie adaptations of comic book series fail so often? Degradation of Plot Complexity One main reason why movie adaptations of comic book series often do not work out is because they try to condense complex storylines spanning many issues into a two-hour film format. A comic book may span several years and contain intricate plots with deeply nuanced characters. On the other hand, movies have limited time frame to fit in which requires that their narrative be simplified even if this will create less detail in it leading to skewed characterizations. This compression can take away the narrative depth that makes comi

  Image credits to Image Comics Image Comics is different from other comic book universes because it is a place where creators have limitless imagination and power takes many exciting forms. Many iconic characters have been born out of these visionary brains, each one having powers that are beyond human’s wildest dreams. We will look at them here as we try to find out who among them are the mightiest heroes within this vibrant universe called Image Comics. Spawn Todd McFarlane’s Spawn is one of the most powerful figures in all of Image Comics. He can shape-shift, teleport, manipulate necroplasmic energy (amongst other supernatural abilities) which makes him almost invincible against any form of evil. Savage Dragon Created by Erik Larsen; this character represents raw strength combined with resilience like no other. A humanoid dragon possessing superhuman strength and regenerative power to protect Chicago from various threats easily puts him among top tier heroes in this universe accord

  Somewhere in the universe far away from ours, Star Wars has ventured past the cinema screen and into comic books where it continues to enthrall readers with its exciting adventures and deepening mythos. For those who want more knowledge about this epic franchise, here are seven titles they should absolutely read. Star Wars: Darth Vader (2015–2016) This series by Kieron Gillen with art by Salvador Larroca delves into the dark personality of Darth Vader. It is set between “A New Hope” and “The Empire Strikes Back”, following his quest for power within the Empire as he deals with being Anakin Skywalker in the past. Star Wars: Doctor Aphra (2016–2020) Adding a different perspective to the Star Wars universe, this series follows morally ambiguous archaeologist Doctor Aphra on her adventures. Written by Kieron Gillen then Simon Spurrier later with art by Kev Walker among others, “Doctor Aphra” is a blend of action, comedy and ethical quandaries sure to entertain fans. Star Wars: Darth Maul

  In the realm of television, adaptation of comic books into live-action series has emerged as a well-liked trend, leaving audiences enthralled with their inventive storytelling and visually arresting narratives. As an avid fan of comic books, being able to see cherished characters and stories brought to life on the small screen is both thrilling and exacting. Creating a successful live-action television series based on a comic book series demands creative engagement, faithfulness to the source material, and comprehension for what makes such narratives resound with viewership. Here’s all you need to know about making a good live action TV show based on a comic book. Grasping the Essence of the Source Material One important aspect in creating a successful television show from a comic book is capturing its spirit. This implies understanding what themes are central to it. Developing Strong Characters and Storylines A major distinguishing feature between great comics-based TV shows versus

  Image credits from Ghostmachine Pro In the comic book realm, there are few genres that capture the imagination quite like post-apocalyptic tales. They take readers to gloomy and often haunting worlds where humanity struggles to survive in a landscape of catastrophe. From desolate wastelands to gritty urban streets, these comics unearth themes of resilience, survival, and what being human really means when confronted with adversity. Here are some of the most gripping post-apocalyptic series that have enthralled die-hard fans with their powerful stories and stunning imagery. “The Walking Dead" by Robert Kirkman and Tony Moore This groundbreaking series follows a group of survivors as they navigate a world overrun by flesh-eating zombies. Known for its intense storytelling and complex characters, "The Walking Dead" has become a cultural phenomenon, spawning a hit TV show and many spin-offs. “Y: The Last Man" by Brian K. Vaughan and Pia Guerra In this acclaime

  Image credits to The Comic Vault In the vast world of comic books, one thing can be said about them: their battles are epic. There’s something about superheroes and villains duking it out against each other that really draws people in. With the biggest comic book fan on the case, I present to you the top ten best comic book battles! Superman vs Doomsday Was there another storyline more brutal than this? The story ‘The Death of Superman’ finally pitted him against an unstoppable force known as Doomsday, and boy what a battle it was. Their fight was so intense that Superman seemingly died from it! Meaning he is no more… gone… dead. Batman vs Bane In the famous ‘Knightfall’ storyline, Batman finds himself on the wrong end of his opponent’s strength once squared off against Bane. With his back broken by Bane, Batman had to somehow muster up enough willpower (and the help of a new Batman) to defeat him because… he’s batman apparently. Spider-Man vs Green Goblin A rivalry that spans for ag

  Indie comics, or independent comics, have a long, rich history that’s filled with the spirit of innovation from its creators. First emerging as a counter-culture movement during the 60s, indie comics brought an alternative to the norm in a heavily superhero-dominated comic book industry. These comics became a platform for creatives to explore new storytelling techniques, art styles and thematic elements that were often unconventional and groundbreaking. The Genesis of Indie Comics The underground comix movement of the 60s and 70s is where indie comics first found its footing. Inspired by counterculture movements of that time period, artists and writers began self-publishing their work to bypass traditional publishers altogether. Their books featured explicit content, political commentary and experimental art styles — all challenging censorship laws as well as societal norms. Robert Crumb is one iconic figure from this era who pushed the boundaries of what was considered acceptable fo

  Image credits to cnet.com In the end, no franchise in Marvel Comics’ ever-growing universe won’t touch the hearts of fans like the X-Men. The team of mutants has dug its claws into the hearts of fans around the world with its inspiring stories about heroism, discrimination, and acceptance. Coming off a series revival, one of the most famous iterations from X-Men in animation is their 1997 counterpart. That show brought back beloved characters for a whole new slew of adventures on Disney+. But also building off that success is another revival series, X-Men ‘97. A Nostalgic Trip Back to the ‘90s X-Men ’97 — yes, it continues directly from where 1992 left off — holds as a direct continuation of its iconic predecessor which aired for five seasons and became such a cornerstone to Saturday morning cartoons. The revival looks to recapture everything about what made that original show so good by bringing back everyone from voice actors to creative teams who worked on it. For fans who grew up

  Image credits to marvel-dc.fandom.com Amalgam Comics was a short-lived but popular imprint that brought together characters from Marvel and DC Comics to create new ones. Each character had traits of both universes — and they were intriguing enough to make fans love them. Here are the top 10 most popular characters in the universe: Dark Claw A mix of Batman and Wolverine, Dark Claw has Wolverine’s fighting skills and Batman’s detective skills. He’s dark and mysterious — a standout in this universe. Super-Soldier With Superman’s super strength, speed, and endurance mixed with Captain America’s leadership and tactical skills, Super-Soldier is an unbeatable hero. His patriotic design made him a fan-favorite too. Spider-Boy Spider-Man’s wall-crawling abilities mixed with Superboy’s strength made for a fun character to follow along with when he goes on adventures. Fans found his youthfulness relatable. Iron Lantern Iron Man has advanced tech while Green Lantern can create anything with his