Wednesday, December 29, 2010

Rule 63: Wonder Woman by Glen Hanson



I've managed to remain blissfully unaware of The Rules of the Internet for years, beyond the instinctual/horse sense stuff that should guide even the uninitiated. It was only a few weeks ago, when I noted the existence of Despero and Martian Manhunter porn elsewhere that LissBirds of Comics Make Me Happy! informed me that I had invoked Rule 34. Unfortunately, now that I've mentioned Martian Manhunter, Despero, and pron in the same sentence, the cosmos has surely begun moving to combine the two in a single slash fiction. The greener of the two had previously confirmed his hetero--um--bestiality with Wonder Woman, so I suppose she must be avenged through Rule 63. I must... "thank?" ... Shag for making me aware of this abomination through a recent Firestorm Fan post, although I again knew something was up when one of my most viewed blog posts involved Female Versions of Green Lantern and Martian Manhunter by Mitch Foust. Finally, does this make up for my running the updated reviewed version of the 2010 Wonder Woman XXX: A Hardcore Parody Trailer, or just make it worse?

Saturday, December 25, 2010

2005 Wonder Woman Art Book Piece by Brandon Peterson

Click To Enlarge


This guy hasn't even had a run as cover artist yet? Curse the cruel fates! I vastly prefer this warrior to the cheesecake Adam Hughes delivered for years (he said, clearly preferring Bolland.)

More Selections from Brandon Peterson's 2005 Artbook!

Thursday, December 23, 2010

Sensational Comics for March, 2011



Sensational Links:
Wonder Woman
WONDER WOMAN #609
Written by J. MICHAEL STRACZYNSKI & PHIL HESTER
Art and cover by DON KRAMER & JAY LEISTEN
1:10 Variant cover by ALEX GARNER
In a near-death vision, Diana experiences the power of Dr. Psycho! But is he foe or friend?
Wonder Woman’s intensely trippy story continues as hints of her “normal” reality continue popping up in unexpected ways. Don’t miss this issue’s revelations!
Retailers please note: This issue will ship with two covers. Please see the Previews Order Form for more information.
On sale MARCH 30 • 32 pg, FC, $2.99 US
JMS still gets top billing for his "story notes?" What crap!

DC UNIVERSE ONLINE LEGENDS #3-4
Written by TONY BEDARD & MARV WOLFMAN
Art by HOWARD PORTER, ADRIANA MELO and LIVESAY
Covers by ED BENES
Coinciding with the release of the wildly anticipated DCU MMO from Sony Online!
In issue #3, Brainiac’s assault on Earth has begun, with a first strike at Metropolis and The Man of Steel! But what are Brainiac’s real motivations for attacking the Daily Planet? And in the bleak, post-apocalyptic future, a weary Lex Luthor gathers the last of Earth’s metahumans for one final stand against an overwhelming alien invader!
In issue #4, while planning a counter-strike against Brainiac’s ship, the JLA are ambushed on their satellite! Desperate times call for desperate actions! And in the post-apocalyptic future, Luthor plots the greatest betrayal of all!
Issue #3 on sale MARCH 2
Issue #4 on sale MARCH 16
32 pg, FC, $2.99 US
I have no faith in a maxi-series adaptation of a video game, and I usually hate Ed Benes Wonder Woman, but that is a tight cover.
JLA/THE 99 #6
Written by STUART MOORE & FABIAN NICIEZA
Art by TOM DERENICK & DREW GERACI
Cover by FELIPE MASSAFERA
The first-ever meeting between DC Comics’ JUSTICE LEAGUE OF AMERICA and Teshkeel Comics’ THE 99 concludes…
The two disparate teams pull together to show what working side-by-side can accomplish on a global scale! The World’s Greatest Super Heroes and The World’s Newest Super Heroes defy the odds and triumph over the combined terror of Starro from beyond and the homegrown threat of Rughal!
On sale MARCH 30 • 6 of 6 • 32 pg, FC $2.99 US
I've avoided this like every other Biker Slut Wondy appearance. Was that a mistake?

Artemis
YOUNG JUSTICE #2
Written by ART BALTAZAR and FRANCO Art and cover by MIKE NORTON

Based on the highly anticipated, all-new hit animated show from Warner Bros. debuting in January on Cartoon Network! It’s moving-in day for Superboy and Miss Martian as they choose their rooms at their new headquarters! But the Boy of Steel is haunted by the Cave’s memories and strange visions of his past…

On sale FEBRUARY 16 • 32 pg, FC, $2.99 US
I realize this is really the second issue, but why bother with a #0 scheme if your #1 is going to carry such a weak cover?

Wonder Girl (Cassie Sandsmark)
TEEN TITANS #93
Written by J.T. KRUL
Art and cover by NICOLA SCOTT & DOUG HAZLEWOOD
A brand-new day brings a brand-new hero to the world of the Teen Titans! Strange disappearances on an archeological dig prompt Wonder Girl’s mother to ask the team for help. But what part does the new hero Solstice have in these mysterious absences? Will she help the Titans — or hurt them?
On sale MARCH 30 • 32 pg, FC, $2.99 US
Where'd Damian go?
TINY TITANS #38
Written by ART BALTAZAR & FRANCO
Art and cover by ART BALTAZAR
The awesome underwater issue! Guest-starring Aqualad, Arthur Jr., Inky, Fluffy and Steve, the Sea Horse! Aquagirl introduces everybody to her new Tiny Titans team, “The Hurtin’ Titans!” Featuring: Hardrock, The Face, Star Spangled Kid and TNTeena! Ker-sploosh!
On sale MARCH 16 • 32 pg, FC, $2.99 US
Wonder Girl (Donna Troy)
JUSTICE LEAGUE OF AMERICA #53
Written by JAMES ROBINSON
Art by BRETT BOOTH & NORM RAPMUND
Cover by BRETT BOOTH
1:10 Variant cover by DAVID MACK
“The Rise of Eclipso” continues! With the Spectre fallen and darkness spread throughout the DC Universe, no one is safe from Eclipso’s control! Not any of DCs shadow-based heroes and villains. Not Alan Scott and the magical beings of the moon’s Emerald City. Not even the World’s Greatest Heroes! And when Eclipso’s ultimate goal is revealed, they’ll see that it’s scale is even bigger than the DC Universe. One lone hero has the power to make sure all be well however...for he has hope. Introducing Blue Lantern Saint Walker to the Justice League of America! In the remains of New Krypton, Doomsday tears through Batman, Supergirl and Alpha Lantern Boodikka in his search for Cyborg Superman as “Reign of Doomsday” rampages on!
Retailers please note: This issue will ship with two covers. Please see the Previews Order Form for more information.
On sale MARCH 23 • 32 pg, FC, $2.99 US
Every single month I forget this book when doing these solicitations, and have to go back and edit it in. That means something.

Tuesday, December 21, 2010

2010 The Comic Book Zodiac: Libra by Deaver Park Press



On my nigh-daily trip to Rob Kelly's The Aquaman Shrine, I found his posts on Aquaman/Black Manta's entry in The Comic Book Zodiac. Whuzzat? Explain:

For each sign of the Zodiac, we’ve chosen a comic book character as a representative. For each elemental classification in the Zodiac (Earth, Air, Fire and Water), we’ve chosen a corresponding color of Mister French poster paper, 12.5 inches wide by 19 inches tall. Each poster will be a hand-pulled three color screen print, signed and numbered. The first series will be limited to 20 prints of each character, and will be premiered at Asheville, North Carolina’s first-annual Fanaticon comic book convention, on May 15th, 2010. After that, we’ll make them available for order online.

Are these legal? I'm leaning toward no, but for now linking to them should be. Hopefully, they'll progress beyond the usual/common/broad sun signs everyone latches onto, and take advantage of the comic universes to really delve into the astrological one.

Wednesday, December 15, 2010

Monday, December 13, 2010

2010 Wonder Woman XXX: A Hardcore Parody Trailer



The delude of post-Batman XXX porn parodies has finally reached the 1970s Wonder Woman TV show. I had to edit the solicitation copy, and there's some salacious elements in the video (rubbing/cleavage/pantyshot/clothed peener,) but this is still safe enough for home viewing (although work may fire your ass.)

The Iraqi government has once again penetrated US soil and has sent their top spy to infiltrate America's most lucrative business, the Porn Industry. Through the help of a sultry US informant, the Iraqi spy has gained access to California's biggest porn production sets in order to steal their secrets and bring them back home. There is only one person that can stop the Iraqi insurgence. There is only one person who can make a man crumble to his knees and beg for mercy, Wonder Woman. Will the Iraqi spy succeed in his mission to rip off America's beloved porn or will he succumb to the wealth and riches of the most sought after p☆☆☆☆ on the planet. Will Wonder Woman save the day or are her powers futile against the terrorist attacks of the Iraqi infidels.

STARRING
Carolyn Reese
Tori Black
Mikey Butders
Diamond Foxxx
Bill Bailey
Anthony Rosano
Gracie
Ralph Long


UPDATE 12/24/2010:

One of the more welcoming adult sites on the internet is Fleshbot. After all, it's got a pink background, female writers, and the option of viewing with or without gay content. The site has added an uncomplimentary review Mile High Media's latest release, and I thought I'd offer an edited excerpt as an addendum here. I'm not comfortable linking directly to a porn site through a PG-13 blog, especially since there are stills from the production on the page, but that's what your search engine is for, right?

"Wonder Woman XXX" suffers from some of the same problems that "Red Riding Hood XXX" did: misspellings, terrible acting, and a criminally underused titular character.

Most of the time and energy that goes into this movie is spent drawing out the overly elaborate (though somewhat amusing) plot. Iraqi Anthony Rosano sends Iraqi Mikey Butders to Chatsworth, California, to steal porn production secrets with the help of a military spy, Carolyn Reese. Mikey's plane crashes on Wonder Woman's island, where her mother, Diamond Foxx, cares for the boy... Mikey goes on his way, ends up working on a porn set with Gracie Glam and Bill Bailey, and starts learning about smut. Wonder Woman follows him to California, tells General Ralph Long, and they bust Anthony, Mikey, and Carolyn.

My biggest beef with Ms. Brooke's movie has to be the mishandling of Wonder Woman. It's not Tori's fault at all—she's adorable yet powerful... it's just that she only has one sex scene. Just one! ...Sadly, the only power Wonder Woman shows off is the ability to make people fall asleep by touching their foreheads. That's it. Do you know how many powers Wonder Woman has had over the years? More importantly, where was the golden lariat? How can they not take advantage of the bondage angle?

I wasn't planning on seeing this even before the sorry review, just as I've yet to "enjoy" any of these new super-hero porn parodies. Still, if there's one area Wonder Woman should totally rule the roost, it's in the female performer dominated adult industry. I guess there's always that Justice League movie, but somehow, blowing all the Super Friends at once doesn't exactly scream "empowered heroine," does it?

Friday, December 10, 2010

1990 The Atlas of the DC Universe: Themyscira

Paul Kupperberg wrote this directory of DC Comics locales in the past, present, and future as a supplement to the Mayfair Games roleplaying line...




THEMYSCIRA
Themyscira, also known as Paradise Island, is the home of the Amazons. It exists somewhere in the mid-Atlantic, in the area known as the Bermuda Triangle. Themyscira is protected from the sight of man by a perpetual blanket of clouds and fog. It is believed that Themyscira is actually situated in a small dimension of its own, adjacent to both the Earth and Olympian dimensions (see entries under EARTH DIMENSION, MOUNT OLYMPUS).

Named for the walled city in ancient Greece that was their original home, Themyscira was settled centuries ago, after the warrior race of Amazon women had been seduced and humiliated by the man-god Heracles and his troops. Placed in bondage by men, they were finally freed by the goddess Athena in exchange for their renunciation of their warlike ways and their rededication to the ways of the Earth-goddess Gaea. Queen Hippolyte accepted Athena's conditions, while her sister, Antiope, refused, renouncing her Amazon heri­tage and taking her followers from Themyscira forever.

Hippolyte and the remaining Amazons were sent by Athena and the other goddesses to an uncharted island, beneath which an unspeakable evil had been imprisoned. In exchange for an agreement to act as jailers to this evil for all eternity, the souls of the Amazons would be purified once again, and they would be granted immortality as long as no man ever set foot upon the island. The sea-god Poseidon parted the waters of the Aegean Sea so that the Amazons could walk to their new home.

Their island home had been declared a paradise, and the Amazons built a new city where they could live and house their art and history. Great halls of justice serve as icons to the glory of the gods and an offshore island as a great center of medicine and healing. While the Amazons developed their new civilization on the island, the unknown evil remained imprisoned below. It was kept at bay by giant battlements and Amazon guards, many of whom died over the centuries in the battle to keep it contained.

Over the centuries, the Amazons kept their vow to Athena, keeping Themyscira free from man's influence. They remained hidden from man's view and knowledge until a military jet piloted by Colonel Steve Trevor crashed just off of Themyscira's shores. At first, this seemed to be a random accident, but it was learned that the plane had been sent to destroy the island as part of the war-god Ares' scheme to conquer the world. The Amazons were forced to send their chosen representative back to Man's World with Trevor to oppose Ares' master plan. This representative was Hippolyte's daughter, Diana, who has since become known as Wonder Woman. Game statistics for Princess Diana are located on page 47 of the Background IRoster Book, while Queen Hippolyte's are on page 24 of that book.
Among Themyscira's main features are:


  • The Coliseum, where the Amazons test, hone, and display their skills and prowess.
  • The Royal Palace, located at the center of the island on Themyscira's highest elevation, overlooking the rest of the island. The Palace, a grand and regal structure, is home to Queen Hippolyte.
  • The Senate Chamber, where the Amazon representatives meet to discuss important issues of the day and create policy for the Amazon society.
  • The Temple of the Oracle, adjacent to the Royal Palace and Menalippe's sanctuary, where the Amazon priestess consults with the Olympian gods (see entry under MOUNT OLYMPUS).
  • The Statue of Artemis, which was created in honor of the goddess who championed their cause. The statue is located in a clearing in the woods and was constructed as the highest, most visible feature on the island.
  • The Temple of Hades was built to honor the god of the dead, whom the immortal Amazons do not fear. En­shrined within the Temple are relics of the Amazons who have died.
  • The Island of Healing, located on a small island chain near the main­ land. This is a tranquil, serene place where pure waters flow and healing herbs grow in abundance.

Because of the enchanted nature of Themyscira, technological equipment does not work there. Indeed, the island's magics are so powerful that even airplanes or ships passing by the island fail. This phenomenon is re­sponsible for the legend of the Ber­muda Triangle, or Devil's Triangle, where humans and their vessels have been rumored to disappear, to be lost forever.

Themyscira has only recently been opened to visitors from the outside world. For more information on Para­dise Island, consult Strangers In Paradise, the Wonder Woman sourcebook.

Tuesday, December 7, 2010

1989 Mayfair Games DC Heroes Wonder Woman Character Card



I don't have a lot of ground to cover here, as much of it was already trod weeks ago under the 1993 Mayfair Games DC Heroes Role-Playing Game Third Edition Wonder Woman Entry. I'm much less confident the art is by Paris Cullins when blown up and in context, but it certainly looks nice in color. The Lasso of Truth was listed here, but otherwise I noticed no real changes between entries. Wonder Woman was and remained near impossible to catch, capable of hitting most anyone or thing with considerable might, and a Super-Martial Artist. She could also sell ice to an Eskimo (but of course wouldn't,) and could withstand most psychic or metaphysical affronts. Now if only her writers could depict this on a comic page...



Saturday, December 4, 2010

1989 Mayfair Games DC Heroes Troia Character Card



Dang Donna Troy. I liked her when I was younger, and she's got some winning stats here. Strong martial artists skill and the agility to use it. Very impressive strength comparable with the New God Big Barda. Solid intellect and resistance to psychic/supernatural forces. A flier, good with weapons, and a decent team leader. Then all of the sudden, she's got an ugly costume, a force field, and succumbs to Jean Grey Syndrome. Now she's your typical Marvel team book heroine, constantly embattled, miserable love life, fluctuating power levels, and even the obligatory pregnancy-leading-to-instant-adulthood (mad god flavor.)



Thursday, December 2, 2010

1989 Mayfair Games DC Heroes The Cheetah Character Card



You know what the Cheetah needs? To not fight Wonder Woman for a while. It's like how Baron Zemo was that other guy who fought Captain America when Red Skull was busy, until he got to start stepping out with the Masters of Evil and Thunderbolts. That made him more of a general Marvel Universe threat, and massively improved his reputation. Zemo isn't half as formidable as the Cheetah, and while they occasionally cock-up her representation with lame-brained match-ups like Catwoman, I'd love to see her tear holes in Batman or even Superman.



A Dexterity of 13 coupled with (admittedly excessive) Martial Artist of 9 makes Cheetah seriously dangerous in any situation, regardless of who's present. Excepting Strength, she outstrips Donna Troy in just about everything, plus she can work the magic angle. Cheetah is just plain scary when you think about it, and the only thing keeping her from being a contender on the world stage is that Wonder Woman is so fabulous, how can Cheetah compete on her terms?

Tuesday, November 30, 2010

Super Friends #24 (April, 2010)



A hotel on Oolong Island hosted a conference of the W.O.R.M.S.-- World Organization for Research of Mad Science! Some of the finest evil eggheads had gathered for the annual event, to showcase their wares and determine who would reign as the greatest criminal genius of all.

Among the attendees were a Bronze Age Wonder Woman villainess and an obscure Silver Age Martian Manhunter foil:
"Nice to meet you, Doctor Cyber. I'm Professor Hugo."
"Professor Hugo Strange?"
"No, Hugo Strange is over there. I'm Professor Hugo."
"Hugo... Strange?"

Meanwhile, Dr. Poison had a chat with Dr. Sivana Junior.

Based on a tip from Lex Luthor, Wonder Woman joined the Super Friends in raiding the event. The Amazing Amazon wrestled with a werewolf minion until it was accidentally hit with a shrink ray by Georgia Sivana. "With this many villains, it's hard for them to attack us without getting in each other's way!" The villains also had their own animosities, as when the robot Super-Duper (sporting a replica of Wonder Woman's head and several heroes' powers) was dismantled by Amazo (possessed of the Justice League founders' abilities,) which was dealt the same blow.

Recalling a Silver Age story, Wonder Woman was almost molested by a giant amoeba, until Aquaman's command of water-based lifeforms allowed him to redirect the threat against its maker, Doc Morhar.

The Super Friends were briefly made to sleep at the mental command of telepathic fiends. Dr. Poison suggested the villains "spray them with a giant tank of poison!" Professor Amos Fortune found that "so obvious!" At the suggestion of Dr. Sivana, a variety of potentially lethal mechanisms were employed against the Super Friends in one big death trap, including Poison's poison. However a brief lapse in the no-goodniks' collective attention was all Wonder Woman and company needed to liberate themselves. Dr. Cyber ordered, "Everyone with ray guns-- fire!" However, the Flash had speedily swiped them all, while Wonder Woman lassoed all the monsters at the scientists' disposal, and Superman dismantled the robots.

The Super Friends visited all the male mad scientists in prison, where Wonder Woman presented to them a giant tomato (*ahem*.) "Your size rays can produce giant food to feed the hungry! Your robots can build houses for the homeless-- not to mention fixing the hotel you damaged!" The bad guys wept that their nefarious contraptions had been used for the good of the world.

"Weird Science" was brought to you by Sholly Fisch, with art credited to Dario Brizuela, although online sources report it was actually J. Bone. Presumably, the same creative team supplied a single page back-up strip, "Mad Science Corner with Doctor Cyber."

"When I'm not busy fighting Wonder Woman, I like to perform fiendish experiments here in my lab. Here's one you can do, to build a volcano in your own kitchen! First, gather everything you'll need. Personally, I usually steal it all. But you should just ask your mom and dad." Cyber went on to explain and demonstrate the science fare staple. "Hmm... you know, with a giant one of these, I bet I could flood the city..."

Saturday, November 27, 2010

1991-92 Impel DC Cosmic Cards #76- Troia



A lot of the art choices for this card set felt like nostalgia week at the old pros home, so even though I think this (unused?) Troia costume is even more awful than most, it's a breath of fresh air in context. Ed Barreto had finally left The New Titans after an overlong stay on the inappropriate vehicle, and George Pérez returned just long enough to complete his work ruining Donna Troy begun with the Wonder Woman relaunch. Then along came Tom Grummett, recalling the energy of John Byrne in his prime, but without the cheap shortcuts. Al Vey was his Terry Austin, embellishing the work with kinetic inks that anticipated the Image style. They should have become superstars in their own right, but Grummett broke up the team and switched to a simpler, more cartoonish look, while Vey just sort of faded away.



More Impel DC Cosmic Cards

Tuesday, November 23, 2010

Wonder Woman & Diana Prince Paper Dolls by Margaret Menamin

Click To Enlarge


A few months back, I was directed to Marges8's Blog. Margery Schaffer, says of herself:

I have been a paper doll collector since I was 5 years old. I try to limit the items to pre 1949, but there is always something that catches my eye and ends up in my collection, especially from the modern day artists.

I'm not sure where Margaret Menamin falls on that timeline, but this great Wonder Woman sure looks vintage. Unfortunately, aside from noting that it was purchased at the May 2010 Northern Ohio Paper Doll Party, Schaffer offers no additional information. However, you can see both the full size Wonder Woman and a separate sheet for Diana Prince here.

Saturday, November 20, 2010

Sensational Comics for February, 2011



Sensational Links:
Wonder Woman
THE ALL-NEW BATMAN: THE BRAVE AND THE BOLD #4
Written by SHOLLY FISCH Art and cover by RICK BURCHETT & DAN DAVIS Here comes the bride! It’s Valentine’s Day and you’re invited to the wedding of…Batman and Wonder Woman?! On sale FEBRUARY 9 • 32 pg, FC, $2.99 US
This looks nifty!
WONDER WOMAN #608
Written by J. MICHAEL STRACZYNSKI & PHIL HESTER Art and cover by DON KRAMER & JAY LEISTEN 1:10 Variant cover by ALEX GARNER

Flashes of a destroyed Themyscira haunt Diana all over again as an Amazon safe house is completely destroyed. The culprits? Cheetah and Silver Swan, who work for the mysterious Morrigan. How does Diana get out of this one? According to Cheetah, “You run…” Retailers please note: This issue will ship with two covers.

Please see the Previews Order Form for more information. On sale FEBRUARY 23 • 32 pg, FC, $2.99 US
Phil Hester is a pretty good writer whose run I might have picked up in trade paperback, were he telling his own story. Instead, he's stuck doing the actual work after JMS dashed out some plots on a Post-It note for the other 2/3rds of his "twelve issue run." Maybe Hester can work in some of his unused Vampirella plans into this, or perhaps wait for Dynamite to give him a ring again?

DC UNIVERSE ONLINE LEGENDS #1-2

Written by TONY BEDARD & MARV WOLFMAN Art by HOWARD PORTER & LIVESAY and ADRIANA MELO & NORMAN LEE Issue #1 wraparound cover by ED BENES Issue #1 1:10 Variant cover by RYAN SOOK Issue #2 cover by ED BENES The DC event of the year begins, coinciding with the release of the wildly anticipated DCU MMO! Get ready for the ride of a lifetime with this immense, 26-issue biweekly series!

In issue #1, Lex Luthor’s obsession with destroying Superman reaches fever pitch when he cuts the ultimate Devil’s deal with Brainiac...but with the shake of a hand, has Luthor consigned humanity to genocide?

In the startling second issue, The Lex Luthor of a post-apocalyptic future scrambles to escape Brainiac’s invasion of Earth, but he must gather an army to stop the invasion. Who will he recruit? And in the present, Brainiac’s first assault on Earth has begun, which recaps the incredibly rare DC UNIVERSE ONLINE LEGENDS #0!

Comic book legend Marv Wolfman joins fan-favorite writer Tony Bedard and artist Howard Porter to tell the ultimate DC Universe Super Hero tale of good versus evil!

Retailers please note: Issue #1 will ship with two covers. Please see the Previews Order Form for more information. Issue #1 on sale FEBRUARY 2 Issue #2 on sale FEBRUARY 16 32 pg, FC, $2.99 US
I'm getting a Trinity flashback. The forgettable weekly series starring DC's big three that only seemed to exist because DC loves the publishing format? Except this is a video game adaptation running concurrently with two other bi-weekly series? Ouch.
JLA/THE 99 #5
Written by FABIAN NICIEZA & STUART MOORE Art by TOM DERENICK & DREW GERACI Cover by FELIPE MASSAFERA

The first-ever meeting between DC Comics’ JUSTICE LEAGUE OF AMERICA and Teshkeel Comics’ the 99 continues as both super teams witness the experimental “City of Tomorrow” literally transformed from the world’s greatest hope into a deadly threat to world peace! As Dr. Ramzi’s dream of global harmony melts before their eyes, can the united 99 and JLA reverse the damage?

On sale FEBRUARY 23 • 5 of 6 • 32 pg, FC $2.99 US
Another cover appearance by JMS Wonder Woman. Expect fewer of those in the relatively near future.
BATMAN CONFIDENTIAL #53
Written by MARC GUGGENHEIM Art and cover by JERRY BINGHAM Indebted to a super-powered team called The Zhuguan, Bruce Wayne repays the life-altering favor they bestowed upon him by joining their ranks against their most deadly foe! Marc Guggenheim (JUSTICE SOCIETY OF AMERICA) and classic Batman artist Jerry Bingham (BATMAN: SON OF THE DEMON) present “Super-Powers” part 4 of 5!

On sale FEBRUARY 2 • 32 pg, FC, $2.99 US
So this thing is still going on, presumably with the retro JLofA back-ups. The art inside wasn't as bad as the covers, but still a far cry from Bingham's best.
SUPERMAN #708
Written by J. MICHAEL STRACZYNSKI & CHRIS ROBERSON Art by EDDY BARROWS & J.P. MAYER Cover by JOHN CASSADAY 1:10 Variant cover by TREVOR HAIRSINE

Superman meets the new Wonder Woman for the first time! But why can’t he shake the feeling that he already knows her? The Man of Steel will have to figure that out later, as the two heroes have their hands full defending Omaha, Nebraska from the evil Keres, a supernatural force determined to rid the town (and the world!) of all Amazons – and they’re not too crazy about Kryptonians, either.Retailers please note: This issue will ship with two covers.

Please see the Previews Order Form for more information. On sale FEBRUARY 9 • 32 pg, FC $2.99 US
Gee, this cover looks familiar. Seems JMS was blowing deadlines like crazy for his overhyped, rightly criticized pretentious new directions. Now he's dumped all his monthly work to write one Superman graphic novel, and hired guns get to slog through his boring new directions based on "story notes." What a turd.
DC COMICS PRESENTS: WONDER WOMAN #1
Written by ERIK LUKE Art by YANICK PAQUETTE, BOB MCLEOD and DOUG HAZLEWOOD Cover by ADAM HUGHES

Superman and Batman guest-star in these tales pulled from WONDER WOMAN #139-142, featuring art by Yanick Paquette (BATMAN: THE DARK KNIGHT). But is even this “World’s Finest” team enough to save Wonder Woman from the manipulations of the villainous Oblivion!

On sale FEBRUARY 9 • 96 pg, FC, $7.99 US On sale FEBRUARY 23 • 32 pg, FC, $2.99 US
Eric Luke fell right off the map after this run, huh? I wasn't as bad as Byrne's, but he hasn't exactly been missed. I cannot for the life of me remember what this story was about, other than it continued Diana's chaste one-way affair with Superman. Ugh.
The Art of Vintage DC Comics: 100 Postcards
For more than 70 years, DC Comics has been entertaining children and adults alike. Here, for the first time, is the chronological account of the adventures of both the characters and the company that created them. The DC Chronicle Year by Year traces DC's fascinating story: the company's beginnings as National Allied Publications in the 1934, and its subsequent change to Detective Comics, Inc. in 1937. The book details all the major DC publishing landmarks and more, displayed clearly, month by month.

Highlighting the debuts of Superman and Batman, the geniuses that invented them, and the real-life events-like the Vietnam War, the atom bomb, the Space Race-that shaped the atmosphere of the times, DC Chronicle Year by Year follows the characters' foray into the real world through TV series and blockbuster movies.

Features original cover art by well-known DC artist Ryan Sook and a foreword by Paul Levitz, who was president of DC Comics from 2002 - 2009.
DC Comics Year by Year: A Visual Chronicle
Celebrating the 75th anniversary of DC Comics, these 100 all-different postcards feature the incredible art of DC's comic book covers from the 1930s through the 1980s.
DC Comics Final Crisis [Audio CD]
The novelization of the superhero event starring Batman, Superman, Wonder Woman, and the heroes and villains of the DC Comics Universe Victorious at long last against his enemies on the world of New Genesis, Darkseid has unleashed the forces of Apokolips on Earth. With the secret of the Anti- Life Equation at his command, Darkseid now possesses the ability to eradicate all free will from humanity-and usher in an end to the age of super heroes. Facing an ever growing army of mindless slaves and corrupted heroes, Superman, Batman, Wonder Woman, and the remnants of the Justice League of America find themselves consumed by the ever spreading darkness. They remain humanity's only hope-the only light that will not be extinguished in the world's darkest hour.

Copyright (p) & © 2010 DC Comics. All Rights Reserved. All characters, their distinctive likenesses, and related elements are trademarks of DC Comics.
MSRP: $19.99
All these 75th anniversary items they've been leaving Wonder Woman off of, but here she is on the adaptation of a mini-series she had little to do in. Artemis
YOUNG JUSTICE #1
Written by ART BALTAZAR and FRANCO Art and cover by MIKE NORTON

Based on the highly anticipated, all-new hit animated show from Warner Bros. debuting in January on Cartoon Network! It’s moving-in day for Superboy and Miss Martian as they choose their rooms at their new headquarters! But the Boy of Steel is haunted by the Cave’s memories and strange visions of his past…

On sale FEBRUARY 16 • 32 pg, FC, $2.99 US
I realize this is really the second issue, but why bother with a #0 scheme if your #1 is going to carry such a weak cover? Wonder Girl (Cassie Sandsmark)
RED ROBIN #20
Written by FABIAN NICIEZA Art and cover by MARCUS TO & RAY MCCARTHY

Red Robin finally combines forces with his former teammates in a 2-issue crossover with TEEN TITANS that kicks off right here! Is there even enough room for Tim Drake and Damian Wayne – the new Robin – on one team? Meanwhile, Catman and the Calculator have their own agendas for this highly anticipated reunion! Don’t miss the pulse-pounding second part in this month’s TEEN TITANS #92!

On sale FEBRUARY 9 • 32 pg, FC, $2.99 US
Do I detect the faint aroma of cameo?
TEEN TITANS #92
Written by J.T. KRUL Art and cover by NICOLA SCOTT & DOUG HAZLEWOOD

In part 2 of the action-packed RED ROBIN/TEEN TITANS crossover, all the players are finally together, but the secrets they’re about to learn may be too much for the team to handle. When all is said and done, which Robin will remain with the team as a full-fledged Titan? Continued from this month’s RED ROBIN #20!
On sale FEBRUARY 23 • 32 pg, FC, $2.99 US
Indeed! And not only in Red Robin!
OUTSIDERS #37

Written by DAN DIDIO Art by KEITH GIFFEN & MICK GRAY Cover by PHILIP TAN

“Reign of Doomsday” roars on from the pages of January’s STEEL #1! In Markovia, the Eradicator struggles in battle against the murder-machine known as Doomsday! It’s a fight to the death with the lives of Geo-Force, Katana, the Looker, Halo and the Olympian all hanging in the balance! Don’t miss this brutal chapter as the “Reign of Doomsday” storyline stomps toward an explosive summer event! Meanwhile, under arrest by the U.S. government, Black Lightning and his Outsiders team find their backs against the wall as they’re forced to choose between a lifetime of imprisonment or leading an invasion of their former home base in Markovia!

On sale FEBRUARY 16 • 32 pg, FC, $2.99 US
Only the Steel special was mentioned, but note Cassie to the bottom left of the cover. I guess WONDER GIRL #1
 will be a stealth tie-in...
TINY TITANS #37
Written by ART BALTAZAR & FRANCO Art and cover by ART BALTAZAR It’s a Shazam Family super special! Mary Batson makes her way to the tree house for a Pet Club meeting with her adorable talking tiger! That’s right! A big, talking tiger named Tawky Tawny who wears a suit and tie and a pair of glasses! Guest-starring Freddie, Hoppy and Billy, too!

On sale FEBRUARY 16 • 32 pg, FC, $2.99 US
Wonder Girl (Donna Troy)
JUSTICE LEAGUE OF AMERICA #53
Written by JAMES ROBINSON Art by BRETT BOOTH & NORM RAPMUND Cover by BRETT BOOTH 1:10 Variant cover by DAVID MACK

“The Rise of Eclipso” begins here as the dark energies that have surrounded Earth are harnessed once more to usher in the great Lord of Darkness! And it looks like the corruption of all mankind starts with the members of the Justice League! When things go dark, which teammate poses the greatest threat to mankind – Obsidian or Jade?

Retailers please note: This issue will ship with two covers. Please see the Previews Order Form for more information. On sale FEBRUARY 16 • 32 pg, FC, $2.99 US
I'm a fan of Eclipso, especially in bare-chested "God of Vengeance" mode, but I have 0 confidence in this creative team pulling off that level of darkness or scheming. I-Ching
BATMAN #707
Written by TONY DANIEL Art and cover by TONY DANIEL

Batman uncovers the secrets of Gotham City’s founding fathers and the secrets hidden within the city’s foundation. In a captivating turn of events, The Dark Knight finds that he alone holds the key to stopping the cataclysmic events that loom over Gotham. Don’t miss this stunning finale guest-starring I-Ching and Peacock, a spectacular new heroine from the Far East!

On sale FEBRUARY 16 • 32 pg, FC, $2.99 US
Oh hell-- I dropped this listing, only to see I-Ching return for the big bow.

Backlist
Secret Origin: The Story of DC Comics
Behind the amazing tales of legendary super heroes is the equally amazing story of the company that told them. So many heroes, so many stories to tell--stories of DC Comics' 75 years of challenges, creativity and triumph. This DC Comics Original Documentary is both a compelling insider's tale and a celebration seen through the inkwell of those who created and lived it, balanced with insights from key historians and filled with interviews, archival footage and a dazzling parade of riveting and splashy DC covers. From the bans to the breakthroughs, from humble pulp beginnings to the literary rise of the graphic novel, the story holds a mirror to an ever-evolving enterprise and the society reflected in its comic book pages. It's an American story.
I haven't seen this yet. Thoughts?

Thursday, November 18, 2010

Monday, November 15, 2010

Tuesday, November 9, 2010

1993 Mayfair Games DC Heroes Role-Playing Game Third Edition Wonder Woman Entry



The Mayfair system was one of the best role-playing programs around for super-heroes, and it was cool that Wonder Woman was featured on the foil-enhanced cover of the 3rd edition. Say, does anyone recall Wonder Woman ever getting any other foil covers? None this nifty, anyway-- especially when you factor in that Kevin Maguire drew it!

The Amazing Amazon was one of twenty-nine characters who were provided playable stats "out of the box," but surprisingly was not one of those gifted with a half-page entry, instead squished under Robin & Starfire (Tim Drake, BTW.) I can't place the art, but I'd guess it was someone like Paris Cullins inked by Mike DeCarlo.

Wonder Woman's Dexterity of 13 allowed her to dodge or catch virtually anything, along the lines of Superman, Cheetah and Captain Marvel. Outside of super-speedsters and cosmic entities, she was virtually untouchable. Strength of 16 placed her in the 1,600-6,400 ton range in a tier with Spectre, Martian Manhunter, Solomon Grundy and Lobo. A Body of 13 equated to titanium hardness, typically at or below the likes of Martian Manhunter and Power Girl. Those were the three attributes used to determine the ability to physically hit something, the damage dealt, and the ability to sustain damage.

Click To Enlarge


An Intelligence of 9 recalled Hawkman, Martian Manhunter and Gorilla Grodd, making them among a select few world authorities on a given subject. Will of 12 yielded fanatical determination that girded one against sanity-threatening situations faced by Batman types. Mind of 10 indicates an individual with the self-discipline to undergo torture with grace, like Eclipso and Circe. Again, these attributes dealt with psychic assaults, schemes, and stresses.

Influence of 10 afforded international influence also commanded by Amanda Waller, Batman, Circe and John Constantine. Aura of 9 rocked along similar lines, but covered mystique and respect that outstripped most anybody in comics (even Batman was only an 8.) Spirit of 10 expressed a fortitude unalterable by the bleakest circumstances and capable of withstanding attacks from an experienced sorcerer. Batman, Dr. Occult and Mr. Miracle hung at this level.

How these stats related to gameplay was that Wonder Woman could connect her fist with just about anything, and damage the heck out of it while still holding herself up. She was also extremely capable against great intellects and powerful magic. Her flight of 14 was outstanding, but her other special abilities were middling. However, her double digit skills in acrobatics, charisma, martial arts (12!,) military science and weaponry made up for it, as she was without peer. Unfortunately, information on her Lasso of Truth would have to wait for another resource...

More Mayfair 3rd Edition for Today:

Saturday, November 6, 2010

2010 DC Universe Plushies 7-Inch Wonder Woman



The beloved heroes and the feared villains of DC Comics get a plush makeover from the designers at Funko, to make these characters both soft and lovable to enrapture the next generation of comics fans. Choose from Catwoman, The Penguin, The Joker, or Wonder Woman. Each measures 7" tall.
Available November 2010
MSRP: $13.99

Wednesday, November 3, 2010

Alessandra Torresani as Wonder Woman for Halloween 2010



The former Caprica actress making a play for the David E Kelly TV show Sean Young style, or just an innocent holiday costume? Well, I've seen this suit from the rear, and innocent it isn't...

Saturday, October 30, 2010

Justice #8 (December, 2006)



Wonder Woman attended a meeting where Batman laid out all the information collected about the Legion of Doom's plot. Afterword, Captain Marvel gave Wonder Woman a hug, and asked what had happened to her. "We are both beings of magic, Bill. That is also where we are most vulnerable. And I've been cursed. I'm going to die from the same poison that killed Hercules."

"The centaur's blood?"

"But where Hercules' death returned him to the glory which was his by right of birth... I am returning to my origins. These scars are baking me from within. I was clay once, formed by my mother's hands. The goddess made me real in answer to my mother's prayer. I am becoming unreal again. I don't have much time left."

Batman was finally freed of the mind-controlling worms, and returned the Lasso of Truth with a thank you. "Of course, Bruce. I'm glad you're back."

Soon after, the League learned their supporting casts, including Steve Trevor, had been kidnapped. Further, they were held captive my mind-controlled teen heroes, including Wonder Girl Donna Troy...

Continue the story through these character-specific posts:
"Chapter Eight" was plotted and painted by Alex Ross. The script was provided by Jim Krueger, and the penciled layouts by Doug Braithwaite.

Wednesday, October 27, 2010

2010 "DCUniverse Vol.7: The Injustice Gang" The Cheetah by alexmax

Click To Enlarge


Deviant Artist alexmax has done a series of themed DC Universe group shots that I quite like, and even created an all-encompassing wallpaper that pays homage to the underrated Marvel Universe Series III card set. Of "DCUniverse Vol.7: The Injustice Gang" he said:

More Villains. This time, it's the Injustice Gang. I wanted to make a lineup with, what I feel are, the most iconic arch-enemies for each of these guys. Inspired in large part by what Grant Morrison did during the Rock of Ages storyline...

Cheetah: Just added a jungle-bikini to the modern Cheetah. Looks more feral than in a track suit.

Not feeling the bikini, which sexualizes the character through the assumption she has visible naughty bits to cover. Also, it steps on the toes of the entire "jungle girl" genre, which even Giganta could lay some claim to. Otherwise, solid work!

For more spotlights from this mural, see the following:

Sunday, October 24, 2010

Justice #7 (October, 2006)



While flying a lassoed but mentally liberated Batman to the outskirts of the Fortress of Solitude in her invisible jet, Wonder Woman received late word from Doc Magnus and the rebuilt Red Tornado about the Caped Crusader's mischief while mind-controlled.

While the pair waited for Superman's arrival to unlock the door, other heroes began to gather outside. The Flash asked Wonder Woman about the damage dealt to her face. "Cheetah's scars are nothing, Barry. Somehow our enemies discovered who we are..." This led the Flash to be concerned about the welfare of his wife, but the arriving Captain Marvel and Superman warned that mental domination awaited the Scarlet Speedster if he struck out on his own. Instead, the world's greatest heroes stepped into Superman's parlor to plan their response as a team...

Continue the story through these character-specific posts:

"Chapter Seven" was plotted and painted by Alex Ross. The script was provided by Jim Krueger, and the penciled layouts by Doug Braithwaite.

Thursday, October 21, 2010

The Top 5 Silver Swan Covers



Introduced in the early '80s during Roy Thomas & Gene Colan's run on the latest "new" Wonder Woman, Helen Alexandros was an ugly duckling with divinity in her heritage that was granted powers by Ares to wage war on the Amazing Amazon. After a couple of early success, Silver Swan was defeated by Princess Diana, and her granted powers withdrawn.

George Pérez revived the character Post-Crisis as Valerie Beaudry, a deformed girl turned beautiful and deadly powerful by Henry Cobb Armbruster's industrial resources. Beaudry was eventually convinced by Wonder Woman and friends that Armbruster was using her for his own twisted ends, and retired her super-villainous identity.

Vanessa Kapatelis was one of a long list of Wonder Woman supporting characters tossed aside to make room for an incoming creative team's soon to be similarly forgotten replacement cast. She was brought back as the most current Silver Swan through a group effort of WW foes, and she has the greatest emotional impact of all the Swans due to her prior relationship with Diana.

More of Today's Cover Countdowns!

Tuesday, October 19, 2010

Sensational Comics for January, 2011



Wonder Woman
WONDER WOMAN #607
Written by J. MICHAEL STRACZYNSKI
Art and cover by DON KRAMER & JAY LEISTEN
1:10 Variant cover by ALEX GARNER
The controversial, epic story crafted by J. Michael Straczynski marches on! Diana continues to search for those that have sent hunters to butcher her fellow Amazons. Who is responsible? As Diana nears the truth, her foes only get more impossible to defeat!
Retailers please note: This issue will ship with two covers. Please see the Previews Order Form for more information.
On sale JANUARY 26 • 32 pg, FC, $2.99 US
I think DC's January covers are a great concept, but even if we weren't looking at white trash Wondy, Kramer's art is meh, and that eagle logo leaves a lot to be desired. Fail begets fail begets failure.


JLA/THE 99 #4
Written by STUART MOORE & FABIAN NICIEZA
Art by TOM DERENICK & DREW GERACI
Cover by FELIPE MASSAFERA
The monumental meeting between DC Comics’ JUSTICE LEAGUE OF AMERICA and Teshkeel Comics’ the 99 continues…
The alien invasion is putting a strain on the efforts made by the JLA and the 99! Firestorm has to contend with three startling additions to his matrix, while Hawkman disagrees with the 99’s approach to stopping the Noor Stone’s latest candidate. Rughal’s nefarious team-up with the space-born villain has successfully put the JLA and the 99 at odds unless Batman can find the one item that will end this assault on the two venerable super hero teams – and the Earth itself!
On sale JANUARY 26 • 4 of 6 • 32 pg, FC $2.99 US
Note the mid-mini-series price change.

BATMAN CONFIDENTIAL #52
Written by MARC GUGGENHEIM • Art and cover by JERRY BINGHAM
In “Super-Powers” part 3 of 5, Batman faces the Justice League for the first time! The landmark meeting triggers a memory back to the time he met his first super-powered team – The Zhuguan! Take a trip down memory lane to a time when a young Bruce Wayne traveled the world to find the methods he’d need to embrace his fate as The Dark Knight!
On sale JANUARY 5 • 32 pg, FC, $2.99 US
I assume Diana will appear, yet I don't care.

SUPER FRIENDS: MYSTERY IN SPACE TP
Written by SHOLLY FISCH
Art by DARIO BRIZUELA, STEWART MCKENNY, DAN DAVIS and J. BONE
Cover by J. BONE
Get ready for seven new SUPER FRIENDS tales from issues #22-28! The heroes race against Despero, Mongul and Queen Bee for magical artifacts, stop a plot against them hatched by the mad scientists of Oolong Island, take part in the Space Olympics, and much more!
On sale FEBRUARY 2 • 144 pg, FC, $12.99 US
I read a couple of these. They're cute, but not much Wonder Woman.

Artemis
YOUNG JUSTICE #0
Written by GREG WEISMAN and KEVIN HOPPS
Cover and art by MIKE NORTON
Based on the upcoming hit animated show from Warner Bros. debuting on Cartoon Network! Robin, Superboy, Kid Flash and Aqualad star in this explosive issue kickstarting an all-new ongoing series! They’re four young superheroes learning how to be a team…and maybe doing a bit of growing up along the way – but only just a little bit!
Animation writers Greg Wiesman (The Batman, Gargoyles) and Kevin Hopps (Spectacular Spider-Man, Smurfs) join fan-favorite artist Mike Norton (BILLY BATSON AND THE MAGIC OF SHAZAM) for this exciting new, all-ages title!
On sale JANUARY 19 • 32 pg, FC, $2.99 US
I caught the first few minutes of this cartoon the other day, and it looked quite good. Much more Justice League than Teen Titans. Great design work, too

Wonder Girl (Cassie Sandsmark)
WONDER GIRL #1

Written by JT KRUL
Art by ADRIANA MELO & MARIAH BENES

Cover by NICOLA SCOTT & DOUG HAZLEWOOD
Spinning out of the pages of TEEN TITANS comes this spotlight on Cassie Sandsmark, the wonderful Wonder Girl! Even though not every moment of Wonder Girl’s life is spent being a Titan, strange adventures still follow her everywhere. In this issue, she’ll cross paths with the odd new hero known as Solstice!
ONE-SHOT • On sale JANUARY 12 • 32 pg, FC, $2.99 US
I should have held off on my greatest Cassie covers list, it seems.

TEEN TITANS #91
Written by J.T. KRUL
Art and cover by NICOLA SCOTT & DOUG HAZLEWOOD
1:10 Variant cover by IVAN REIS & OCLAIR ALBERT
Robin and Ravager stand alone against the Feral Boys as Raven makes one last, desperate attempt to reach Headcase. Where are the rest of the Titans – and who is the mysterious figure calling to them for help? Pay close attention as a lost Titan reaches out!
Retailers please note: This issue will ship with two covers. Please see the Previews Order Form for more information.
On sale JANUARY 26 • 32 pg, FC, $2.99 US

TEEN TITANS: HUNT FOR RAVEN TP
Written by FELICIA D. HENDERSON
Art and cover by JOE BENNETT and JACK JADSON
The Teen Titans are reunited with Static in these tales from TEEN TITANS #79-87, but can they survive the power of Holocaust? And will Static stay with the Titans if he survives? Then, the team finds itself divided as it goes on the hunt for their missing teammate, Raven! One side is stranded on a dead planet, the other thousands of leagues below the sea – and both are in serious danger as they head closer to a trap set by the dangerous Wyld!
On sale FEBRUARY 9 • 208 pg, FC, $17.99 US

TINY TITANS #36
Written by ART BALTAZAR & FRANCO
Art and cover by ART BALTAZAR
Titans to the center of the Earth! Terra uses her powers to take the “hot” Titans on the journey of a lifetime. And if Terra is involved, you know Beast Boy isn’t far behind! Don’t forget the sunscreen and the bottled water, and watch out for the Sea Trap of Doom!
On sale JANUARY 19 • 32 pg, FC, $2.99 US

Wonder Girl (Donna Troy)
JUSTICE LEAGUE OF AMERICA #53
Written by JAMES ROBINSON
Art by MARK BAGLEY, ROB HUNTER & NORM RAPMUND
Cover by MARK BAGLEY & ROB HUNTER
1:10 Variant cover by DAVID MACK
The final chapter of “JLA Omega” arrives as the World’s Greatest Heroes and the Crime Syndicate struggle for survival. But the Syndicate’s betrayal of their own pact results in a final, savage confrontation – and Ultraman does some betraying of his own! Can the JLA defeat Omega Man, the harbinger of death? Can they save the Crime Syndicate’s world and the Tangent Universe? And in the midst of this war between good and evil, which side will Dark Supergirl choose?
Retailers please note: This issue will ship with two covers. Please see the Previews Order Form for more information.
On sale JANUARY 19 • 32 pg, FC, $2.99 US
Well, the book certainly has girl power.

STARMAN /CONGORILLA #1

Written by JAMES ROBINSON

Art by BRETT BOOTH

Cover by GENE HA
In this tie-in to the “JLA Omega” storyline, the new blue and gold team of Congorilla and Mikaal Tomas work to unlock the secrets behind the toxic Omega Man’s dark energy, which encases Washington D.C. To do this they must embark on a quest to find the Fountain of Youth, encountering diverse heroes from the DCU along the way including Animal Man, Sirocco and a certain wonder dog named Rex. And all the while, Mikaal and Congorilla must outrun and outwit a cadre of terrorist assassins from Gorilla City. This is a breakneck chase through the DCU, but with a serious end-goal – saving the lives of their fellow members of the JLA!
ONE-SHOT • On sale JANUARY 5 • 32 pg, FC, $2.99 US
Expect a meaningless cameo.

Sunday, October 17, 2010

Justice #6 (August, 2006)



Giganta was responsible for two attempts on the Atom's life, before receiving a small comeuppance. The Mighty Mite then contacted Wonder Woman in her invisible jet, who explained the situation and asked that he join her at a secret League meeting place. Diana then landed in a jungle, and used her Lasso of Truth to guide her through an illusory stone wall into a cave. As it turned out, this was the Batcave, now infested by jungle vines and other greenery. The Amazing Amazon found the Dark Knight bound to a tree, and learned this was Poison Ivy's doing.

Attacked by a giant Venus flytrap and thorn-firing roses, Wonder Woman commented, "How much like men with guns you are, Poison Ivy," to no small offense. Creepers crawling on Diana, the villainess warned, "You snap one of those vines, and I'll snap your neck. By the way, I like the new look." The Amazon Princess tore herself loose, and freed her ally besides. Batman unexpectedly began electrocuting Diana with special gauntlets, her fresh facial wounds from the Cheetah glowing orange against the blue arc. The Amazon looped her lasso around the Caped Crusader's neck. Ivy cracked, "Is it too much to hope that you'll kill each other?" It was, as a spiritually freed Batman cold-cocked her. Wonder Woman survived the attack, and everyone was loaded onto the invisible jet.

Continue the story through these character-specific posts:
"Chapter Six" was plotted and painted by Alex Ross. The script was provided by Jim Krueger, and the penciled layouts by Doug Braithwaite.

Thursday, October 14, 2010

1991-92 Impel DC Cosmic Cards #22- Golden Age Cheetah



Question: Was Priscilla Rich the first regularly appearing sympathetic compulsive villain? I wonder how many people realize the Green Goblin was a Cheetah rip-off?

Another cool often overlooked thing about Wonder Woman is that she has a history of successfully rehabilitating her villains. Rich was nuts, and caused trouble as the Cheetah for years, until the Amazons finally managed to resolve her personality disorder... which stuck. Transformation Island: 1, Arkham Asylum: -871,744.

Speaking of Batman, his franchise was under license at another trading card company, which freed up room for three Cheetah cards! Sure, they were part of a triptych series that looked at multi-generational characters, and Cheetah was Wonder Woman's token offering, but that's still pretty sweet service.



More Impel DC Cosmic Cards

Sunday, October 10, 2010

1991-92 Impel DC Cosmic Cards #126- Ares



Paris Cullins had a brief run on Wonder Woman around this time, and after a couple of years of Jill Thompson's spindly Amazon, it was nice to see our heroine looking heroic again. Cullins was trying to adapt his style the the '90s, and the results were not attractive enough for most, but I liked how tough he made Wonder Woman (in a storyline that required just that.) I'm glad he didn't have to handle Ares though, because this? Not so much.



More Impel DC Cosmic Cards Posted Today

Thursday, October 7, 2010

Comic Alliance's The 5 Best Modes of Transportation in Comics



3. Wonder Woman's Invisible Jet

Sometimes an otherwise ordinary thing just needs one tweak before it becomes great. With peanut butter it was chocolate. With sneakers it was little flip-out Rollerblades. With jets, it's invisibility. More specifically, it's the fact that every part of the jet is invisible, while the person flying the jet is completely visible at all times.

Add to that the idea that this invisible jet is given to a character who already flies and can be carried around because it scrunches up into a magical ball that she can carry in her purse, and it adds up to a method of getting around that is just too cheerfully ridiculous to be left off this list. Plus, if the invisible jet is truly standard in all ways, it has to come with some invisible snacks and sodas.

Esther Inglis-Arkell offered up the above very Post-Crisis analysis of the Invisible Plane, and her #1 spot is amazingly also Wonder Woman related (and of recent vintage.) Wonder Woman's ability to fly was always stupidly derivative, especially when you've got a distinctive vehicle that all the normal people in the world recognize you for. Comic geeks want Wonder Woman to be Superman-woman #5, and civilians worry how Aquaman is going to make it to Super Friends meetings without getting an invisible lift. One of these two groups is way more right than the other, so choose your side carefully. Also, read the rest of the article here

Monday, October 4, 2010

Justice #5 (June, 2006)



"The first name I ever knew was 'daughter.' I remember my mother holding me in the dawn. I remember the sea. And I remember her telling me that I was a gift. And that I was beautiful." Hippolyta never wanted Diana to compete in the contest to become Wonder Woman-- Amazonian ambassador and champion for the world. Against the queen's wishes, her princess donned a mask and won the contest, but also broke her mother's heart with the deceit and the dangers ahead. "I swore I'd never wear a mask again."

In battle with the Cheetah, Wonder Woman's face had been slashed open in three places by claws dipped in the centaur's poison called "Heracles' Lament." Cheetah had exchanged some of her own blood for it from the goddess of the underworld Persephone. Princess Diana struggled against claws and fangs at her backside, until she reached her Lasso of Truth and ensnared her foe. A tear fell from Priscilla Rich's eye as her humanity was briefly restored, but the cat soon loosed itself from the leash. Wonder Woman had repeatedly reached out to Priscilla, trying to help, but failing that, she kicked the kitty across the alley. The Cheetah fled, but Diana could already feel an unmaking sickness within herself.

I liked that bit about the mask, even if Wonder Woman's lack of one is one of the least necessary rationales to consider. Ross' plotting is often burdened by heavy doomsday vibes, but that melodrama suits the Amazing Amazon a lot better than most.

Continue the story through these character-specific posts:

"Chapter Five" was plotted and painted by Alex Ross. The script was provided by Jim Krueger, and the penciled layouts by Doug Braithwaite.

Wednesday, September 29, 2010

Dragon*Con 2010 Circe as Wonder Woman Cosplayer

Click To Enlarge


I've mostly been doing these cosplay posts based on pictures taken by Shag Matthews of Once Upon A Geek, including the second shot here, but he didn't have any close-up shots of the lady playing Circe. Thankfully, while working on a post about DJ Spider's Zatanna Blue Sorceress Cosplay, I found a nice Circe picture in her folder. The costume here is derived from the initial story arc of the current volume of Wonder Woman wherein our heroines' great adversary briefly usurped her role. Dare to compare below:



Shag caught a few shots of Circe lording it over a host of fallen heroes, which I assume Destiny was chronicling...

Click To Enlarge


Thanks to DJ Spider and Shag for the images, which enlarge and often expand when you click 'em!

More Cosplay of the Day:

Monday, September 27, 2010

The Huntress becomes The Prey



My first favorite characters were usual guys introduced to me through the media. Superman, Batman, Spider-Man, Wonder Woman, in something like that order. As I began reading comics, my interest in those initial heroes faded, and I embraced the Marvel Universe. Burning out in the early '90s, I changed horses for DC. For much of that decade, Wonder Woman was my favorite again, but years of terrible stories and a spike in interest for the Martian Manhunter saw me devote a web site to that character. That lasted a few years, and since I had a strong scholarly investment in J'Onn J'Onzz, returning to him was the reason why I started my first blog. I created a second blog, ...nurgh..., for everything else under the sun that interested me, as well as a Justice League Detroit blog, mostly as an early means of helping me organize the Martian Manhunter blog.

I had a high concept blog crossover idea almost a year back, and knowing my favorite Atom blog was long out of commission, I wanted to build a temporary replacement to participate in the event. I figured since I'd built the thing, I could knock out a post once a week or so, make the joint my own, and that's how Power of the Atom was born. However, as much as I like the Mighty Mite, it literally galled me to have an Atom blog and not have one for Wonder Woman. With the possible exception of the Martian Manhunter, there is no other super-hero I have more comic books about or swag for in my collection. I was compelled to create this blog, and I haven't touched the tip of the iceberg here yet.

Therein lies the problem. My Martian Manhunter blog touches on plenty of related topics, from J'Onn's supporting cast to whatever other aliens have crossed his path. The Motor City Justice League blog took on a life of its own, focusing heavily on Zatanna and Aquaman, but spending whatever time with Vixen, Gypsy, Elongated Man, Steel and Vibe that I could find. Many have borne the Atom name, or are related in other ways, but I've still had room enough for Captain Atom and his Charlton Comics cohorts there as well. ...nurgh... meanwhile proved too time consuming and too schizophrenic, trying to set mainstream all-ages DC Comics material alongside some downright scandalous elements from other media. Blue Devil and Black Emanuelle proved too strange a pair of bedfellows, so I started my final blog for the next year or twelve.

DC Bloodlines is intended to be my everything & the kitchen sink DC Comics blog. Whoever doesn't fit into one of my other blogs, or most people's blogs in general, have a home there. My personal emphasis is on cool obscure characters I like, and I'm also trying to keep it culturally diverse. So far, I've spent a lot of time with African-American heroes, but I'm trying to work in more of everybody else. It's also been important to me to have a strong heroine play a role on the blog. Supergirl was an option, but there's already several blogs/sites devoted to her out there, and I didn't want a character so directly derivative of a male counterpart. Power Girl is more independent, but I have a limited selection of books about her, and she's something of a magnet for criticism of sexist portrayals. I don't feel I have the passion to devote to Black Canary, Big Barda, or any of the Batgirls. I've spent some time on Lady Shiva, but she's hardly a role model. Everyone else worthwhile I could think of was already "taken" by another one of my blogs.

Meanwhile, I announced my intention to give the Huntress coverage on this blog, but at my present thrice-weekly posting schedule, the Wonder Woman family has eaten up all available slots. Further, despite my connection of the Huntress and Wonder Woman through the former's having been a longstanding backup in the latter's book when I was growing up, the two characters have little else in common besides their gender. While connected to the Batman Family, the Huntress stands on her own as a unique and compelling super-heroine I would love to devote more time to that her role here seems to allow. Plus, a lot of the DC Bloodlines characters are more street-level, as opposed to the godlings typically roaming these halls. So, rather than continuing to keep the Huntress shuttered here, this bird has flown to another blog. Please adjust your bookmarks/following accordingly, and know the Huntress will stalk DC Bloodlines with greater prominence and regularity than I've managed here...

Friday, September 24, 2010

Sensational Comics for December, 2010



Wonder Woman
WONDER WOMAN #606
Written by J. MICHAEL STRACZYNSKI
Art and cover by DON KRAMER & JAY LEISTEN
1:10 Variant cover by ALEX GARNER
J. Michael Straczynski’s blockbuster re-imagining of the Amazon Princess continues with a vengeance! Deep beneath the city, Diana tracks the Morrigan to their lair. And what she finds there will astonish you!
Retailers please note: This issue will ship with two covers. Please see the Previews Order Form for more information.
On sale DECEMBER 29 • 32 pg, FC, $2.99 US
That's actually a pretty bitchin' cover. Maybe if I started referring to her as Vitruvian Woman...? Waitaminnit! JMS had this exact same iconography on Spider-Man: The Other! Diana's eating leftovers!

SUPERMAN #706
Written by J. MICHAEL STRACZYNSKI
Art by EDDY BARROWS
Cover by JOHN CASSADAY
1:10 Variant cover by SAMI BASRI
The epic “Grounded” story arc brings The Man of Steel to Des Moines, Iowa! A chance encounter there, however, suddenly thrusts Superman back in time. So somehow he’s Superboy again, the world is on the brink of nuclear Armageddon and it’s all his fault!
Retailers please note: This issue’s content was previously solicited for issue #705. Also, this issue will ship with two covers. Please see the Previews Order Form for more information.
On sale DECEMBER 15 • 32 pg, FC $2.99 US
Oh "goody." A second dose of JMS crapping-up icons, garnished with one of the lamest Cassaday covers I've seen.

JUSTICE LEAGUE: GENERATION LOST #15-16
Written by JUDD WINICK
Issue #15 art by JOE BENNETT
Issue #16 art by FERNANDO DAGNINO
Covers by DUSTIN NGUYEN
1:10 Variant covers by KEVIN MAGUIRE
DC’s biweekly JUSTICE LEAGUE event continues!
In issue #15, the world blames the Justice League International for the recent Chicago death toll and the death of a hero. As our team deals with the fallout, Captain Atom returns from a dark future with information on Max Lord’s ultimate plan – and Wonder Woman plays a major part in it!
In issue #16, the Creature Commandos have attacked the JLI and one of the team lies dying. Meanwhile, Power Girl swears vengeance on the JLI for her friend’s death, but Batman suspects foul play.
Retailers please note: : These issues will ship with two covers each. Please see the Previews Order Form for more information.
Issue #15 on sale DECEMBER 8
Issue #16 on sale DECEMBER 22
32 pg, FC, $2.99 US
It's seems odd to pair off the Modern Age Captain Atom and Wonder Woman for stories, but in their Silver Age stories, it would feel so perfectly natural.

DC COMICS PRESENTS: JLA #1
Written by DENNIS O’NEIL and JOE KELLY
Art by TAN ENG HUAT, DOUG MAHNKE and TOM NGUYEN
Cover by DOUG MAHNKE and TOM NGUYEN
In this never-before-reprinted tale from JLA #91-93, the team finds itself in a dilemma when a mysterious, shapeshifting creature from another planet gets blasted into our solar system. But is it friend or foe? Plus, Wonder Woman and Batman examine their relationship in a tale from issue #90 that spins out of “The Obsidian Age.”
On sale DECEMBER 29 • 96 pg, FC, $7.99 US
Who was like, "yeah, let's reprint the one with the monkeys that nobody like. There's a reason this never made it to trade.

JLA/THE 99 #3
Written by FABIAN NICIEZA & STUART MOORE
Art by TOM DERENICK & DREW GERACI
Cover by FELIPE MASSAFERA
The first-ever meeting between DC Comics’ Justice League of America and Teshkeel Comics’ the 99 continues! Hawkman joins three members of The 99 on a flight to Brazil where earthquakes and devastation suggest the existence of another Noor Stone and another new addition to the 99’s team! Can Hafiz harness the stone’s power before he destroys everything? And why is Firestorm acting so . . . oddly?
On sale DECEMBER 29 • 3 of 6 • 32 pg, FC $3.99 US
JUSTICE LEAGUE INTERNATIONAL VOL. 5 TP
Written by KEITH GIFFEN and J.M. DEMATTEIS
Art by BILL WILLINGHAM, BART SEARS, MIKE MCKONE and others
Cover by BART SEARS
In this new volume collecting JUSTICE LEAGUE INTERNATIONAL ANNUAL #2-3 and JUSTICE LEAGUE EUROPE #1-6, the team is reborn as Justice League International, featuring The Flash, Power Girl, Metamorpho, Animal Man and The Elongated Man.
On sale JANUARY 19 • 240 pg, FC, $19.99 US
Wonder Woman was a member of this team for a panel or two before Perez yanked her without so much as a notice of resignation.

WILDSTORM PRESENTS: PLANETARY – LOST WORLDS #1
Written by WARREN ELLIS
Art by PHIL JIMENEZ, JERRY ORDWAY and ANDY LANNING
Cover by JOHN CASSADAY
WildStorm’s most enigmatic team returns in this special edition collecting two stories fans won’t want to miss!
First, during an investigation of The Authority, the post-human pantheon intrudes in one of Planetary’s old cases. Then we introduce the new Planetary field crew – Clark Kent, Bruce Wayne and Diana Prince? The WildStorm Universe’s mystery-tackling team collides with the DC Universe’s Greatest Heroes in the most unexpected way! Featuring art by Phil Jimenez (INFINITE CRISIS, Amazing Spider-Man) and Jerry Ordway and written by superstar Warren Ellis (AUTHORITY, TRANSMETROPOLITAN)!
On sale DECEMBER 8 • 96 pg, FC, $7.99 US

I-Ching
BATMAN #705
Written by TONY DANIEL
Art and cover by TONY DANIEL
Batman joins forces with a new hero who’s as dangerous as she is beautiful. When members of a secret order turn up dead and tortured in Gotham City’s Chinatown district, I-Ching informs Batman that he fears an ancient relic is the target. Batman connects this case to that of a missing satellite architect. With few clues to go by and the stakes getting higher, Batman races to locate the surviving members of the order before it’s too late.
On sale DECEMBER 15 • 32 pg, FC, $2.99 US

Yes, this is still happening. Yes, it's still weird. Yes, if it continues, I-Ching will eventually appear in more Batman comics than Wonder Woman ones. Repeat from beginning of paragraph.

Wonder Girl (Cassie Sandsmark)
TEEN TITANS #90
Written by J.T. KRUL
Art and cover by NICOLA SCOTT & DOUG HAZLEWOOD
1:10 Variant cover by KARL KERSCHL
It’s mayhem at the cafeteria as Headcase and the Feral Boys run wild! Can the Teen Titans pull themselves together long enough to overcome this combined threat – or will Damian once again be their downfall?
Retailers please note: This issue ships with two covers. Please see the Previews Order Form for more information.
On sale DECEMBER 29 • 32 pg, FC, $2.99 US
DC COMICS PRESENTS: YOUNG JUSTICE #3
Written by D. CURTIS JOHNSON, MARK WAID, KARL KESEL, CHUCK DIXON, PETER DAVID and others
Art by ANGEL UNZUETA, HUMBERTO RAMOS, JOE PHILLIPS, CULLY HAMNER, AMANDA CONNER, ETHAN VAN SCIVER, MARTIN EGELAND, TODD NAUCK and others
Cover by JEFF MATSUDA and JON SIBAL
The origins of the members of Young Justice are revealed in these tales from the SECRET ORIGINS 80-PAGE GIANT! And Wonder Girl and Arrowette clash with their moms in a story from YOUNG JUSTICE #7.
On sale DECEMBER 22 • 96 pg, FC, $7.99 US
If they're just going to keep churning these out every month, why not just start issuing proper trade paperbacks? Are these actually going to his a newsstand/toy store somewhere? And why doesn't DC have a digital copy of this cover like they had for their website when the damned books originally came out? Don't they at least have decent scanning equipment? Jeebus!

Wonder Girl (Donna Troy)
JUSTICE LEAGUE OF AMERICA #52
Written by JAMES ROBINSON
Art by MARK BAGLEY, ROB HUNTER & NORM RAPMUND
Cover by MARK BAGLEY & ROB HUNTER
1:10 Variant cover by DAVID MACK
With Washington, D.C. in the hands of The Omega Man and the full extent of his horrific power revealed, the JLA is forced to make a difficult decision. Is there no choice for the World’s Greatest Heroes but to team with the World’s Worst Villains – the Crime Syndicate – in order to save both Earths? How will this desperate action be affected by Ultra Man’s betrayal of everyone. . . and the reappearance of Dark Supergirl?
Retailers please note: This issue will ship with two covers. Please see the Previews Order Form for more information.
On sale DECEMBER 22 • 40 pg, FC, $3.99 US

TINY TITANS/LITTLE ARCHIE #3
Written by ART BALTAZAR & FRANCO
Art and cover by ART BALTAZAR
The crossover event of the millennium takes a turn for the magical as Sabrina the Witch and Raven take center stage, causing everything in the world of the Tiny Titans and Little Archie to get mixed up more than ever! And Veronica finally brings the other little kid with an “R” on his shirt home to meet her father. Can Robin’s utility belt help him in this kind of situation? And who is responsible for that mess in the Batcave? Archie can’t blame the penguins this time!
Join us for the Earth-shaking conclusion to this climactic event! Aw yeah, epic!
On sale DECEMBER 8 • 3 of 3 • 32 pg, FC, $2.99 US

TINY TITANS #35
Written by ART BALTAZAR & FRANCO
Art and cover by ART BALTAZAR
Tiny Titans from Multiple Earths! It’s a crisis! Or is it? When the Tiny Titans discover a “mirror” universe, they have to figure out if the new Mirror Titans are friends or foes. Or do they just want a bowl of Aqua-Oh’s? Don’t let their opposite colors confuse you! Aw yeah, multiples!
On sale DECEMBER 15 • 32 pg, FC, $2.99 US

Giganta
SECRET SIX #28
Written by GAIL SIMONE
Art by J. CALAFIORE
Cover by DANIEL LUVISI
The pedal-to-the-metal conclusion of the “Reptile Brain” storyline is here as the survivors of the two warring factions of the Secret Six face a danger even more horrifying and revolting than each other! And if this is Skartaris, who’s playing Warlord?
On sale DECEMBER 1 • 32 pg, FC, $2.99 US
Tradeworthy Giganta appearances? Anyone?

The Huntress
BIRDS OF PREY #7
Written by GAIL SIMONE
Art by ARDIAN SYAF & VICENTE CIFUENTES
Cover by STANLEY “ARTGERM” LAU
One of Oracle’s fiercest enemies finds her alone and far from her allies and safe houses – and that’s just the tip of the iceberg as Batman returns! Rising star artist Ardian Syaf (BRIGHEST DAY) makes his BIRDS OF PREY debut in a story you must not miss, which we’re calling ”The Death of Oracle”!
On sale DECEMBER 15 • 32 pg, FC, $2.99 US
I'm still kind of pissed this is #7 instead of a build up toward #150.

THE QUESTION: PIPELINE TP
Written by GREG RUCKA
Art and cover by CULLY HAMNER
Greg Rucka returns to write the adventures of Renee Montoya – the character he helped transform into The Question – as a gun-running scheme threatens Gotham City in stories from DETECTIVE COMICS #854-863. Features the art of Cully Hamner (RED)!
On sale JANUARY 26 • 128 pg, FC, $14.99 US
Anybody read this? It would be funny if Montoya got her swerve on with Helena. And by funny I mean kinda hot.