Invincible

[Elijya]

agreed. Somehow, Big Guy and Rusty the Boy Robot and Static Shock got cartoon shows with virtually no comics to work from, but they don't do that very often

[Themanofbat]

agreed. Somehow, Big Guy and Rusty the Boy Robot and Static Shock got cartoon shows with virtually no comics to work from, but they don't do that very often

Well, maybe Frank Miller's name had something to do with it... seeing as he had written a few movie scripts at the time... RoboCop II coming to mind.

:huh:

[BAH HUMBBUG!]

Uhhh, what? /\/\/\/\/\

[Elijya]

Frank Miller co-created Big Guy and Rusty the Boy Robot (along with Geoff Darrow) a comic that was devloped into an animated kids show

I was noting that it was unusual that it was made into a cartoon since there were only something like 3 BG&RtBR comics, and TMOB suggested that might be because Frank Miller already had certain connections in show business, including his involvement with the Robocop films, and that might have been responsible, or been an encouraging factor, for why a comic with virtually no material got developed into a show

that clear it up?

[Darthphere]

Unlikely.

[BAH HUMBBUG!]

Frank Miller co-created Big Guy and Rusty the Boy Robot (along with Geoff Darrow) a comic that was devloped into an animated kids show

I was noting that it was unusual that it was made into a cartoon since there were only something like 3 BG&RtBR comics, and TMOB suggested that might be because Frank Miller already had certain connections in show business, including his involvement with the Robocop films, and that might have been responsible, or been an encouraging factor, for why a comic with virtually no material got developed into a show

that clear it up?

Yes, thanks Peck :up:

[The Leaguer]

http://imagecomics.com/content/news/images/invincible061023a.jpg

Absolute, *****es.

[CConn]

As much as I love Invincible, how many effing versions of the TPBs are they going to put out? We've had small softcovers, big hardcovers, and now? Really, really big hardcovers, yay.

[Anubis]

It's called variety. Maybe you want the soft covers, well then you got em. Maybe you want the hard covers, well you got them too. Maybe you want to prove how much of a fan you are of the book and by buying the ultra mega editon that collects damn near the whole series to date in one big ass volume. Your choice. Your money.

[HR-PUFF&STUFF]

It's called variety. Maybe you want the soft covers, well then you got em. Maybe you want the hard covers, well you got them too. Maybe you want to prove how much of a fan you are of the book and by buying the ultra mega editon that collects damn near the whole series to date in one big ass volume. Your choice. Your money.
if you don't buy the ultra mega editon that collects damn near the whole series to date in one big ass volume, then the terrorists win.

[Anubis]

Exactly!

[The Leaguer]

I started reading the series around issue 30, and had always planned on picking up the trades of the first part of the series. F*** that, Absolute all the way.

[CConn]

It's called variety. Maybe you want the soft covers, well then you got em. Maybe you want the hard covers, well you got them too. Maybe you want to prove how much of a fan you are of the book and by buying the ultra mega editon that collects damn near the whole series to date in one big ass volume. Your choice. Your money.There's a difference between variety and double dipping.

[Darthphere]

Damn, but I agree.

[Anubis]

There's a difference between variety and double dipping.

Then I take it you don't own any Absolute Editons.

[CConn]

I own one. Alex Ross' JLA stories cause the original verisons were out of print.

I can stand a new edition here and there. But it seems like everyone's coming out with (at least) 3 different versions of the same comic and, well, it's rather much.

[Anubis]

Well, it's mostly a collectors thing. I can understand why you might feel that it's just putting crap out for the sake of putting crap out, but people like having stuff like that. Me? I'm not gonna buy it. But, I do plan on buying a few more Absolute Editions. Mostly of stuff I already own in trade or in comic form. Why? I don't really know. Because it's just so damn pretty.....

[Darthphere]

I'd buy it if I had the money, but ill probably get Absolute Kingdom Come.

[The Watchman]

As much as I love Invincible, how many effing versions of the TPBs are they going to put out? We've had small softcovers, big hardcovers, and now? Really, really big hardcovers, yay.

Sounds like the stages of my penis during arousal.

no it doesn't, I'm impotent.:csad:

[Anubis]

Well then you should wear a suit, because if you gone be impotent you may as well look impotent :D hahahahh.....eh......hmpf :o

[PWN3R]

Finally got my hands on a "very fine" Invincible #1.

[HR-PUFF&STUFF]

Finally got my hands on a "very fine" Invincible #1.welcome to like three years ago for me.:oldrazz::cwink:

[Anubis]

Finally got my hands on a "very fine" Invincible #1.

How much did it run you?

[Darthphere]

5 miles.

[Anubis]

Then he over paid. :(

[PWN3R]

welcome to like three years ago for me.:oldrazz::cwink:

Lucky you.


How much did it run you?


$25.

[HR-PUFF&STUFF]

Lucky you.




$25.
yes i am and not bad.


any one know how many copies of Ish 1 were printed?

[The Leaguer]

I own one. Alex Ross' JLA stories cause the original verisons were out of print.

I can stand a new edition here and there. But it seems like everyone's coming out with (at least) 3 different versions of the same comic and, well, it's rather much.
That's not techinically an Absolute.

Semantics pwnt you.

[Elijya]

[LEFT]
yes i am and not bad.


any one know how many copies of Ish 1 were printed?
first printing? I think only like 10,000. The book didn't become a hit until later

[CConn]

That's not techinically an Absolute.

Semantics pwnt you.Oh yeah.

Awesome. :up:

[HR-PUFF&STUFF]

first printing? I think only like 10,000. The book didn't become a hit until lateroh man that many, you know its going to be one of those comics that is going to be worth a lot.

[The Watchman]

good thing I have one...;)

[Themanofbat]

I remember being at my LCS looking for something new to buy, and there was an issue #1 & 2 of Invincible... so I picked them up and signed on.

One of the Better whimsical buys I've ever made...

:yay:

[HR-PUFF&STUFF]

I remember being at my LCS looking for something new to buy, and there was an issue #1 & 2 of Invincible... so I picked them up and signed on.

One of the Better whimsical buys I've ever made...

:yay:right up there with the penis mighter?:woot:

[PWN3R]

http://img159.imageshack.us/img159/2800/invincible42solicitrx2.jpg

I hope this isn't a read between the lines kind of thing. "Start buying this book or it gets cancelled."

:csad:

[Anubis]

Certainly looks that way. :(

[Elijya]

I highly doubt it's on the brink, they just released the mega collectors edition, the $100 dollar one with slipcase that collects the first 24 issues

That means there's that, the hardcovers, the softcovers, and the normal issues. Do you honestly think Invincible would be available in so many different formats if it didn't sell well? Everyone who reads the book knows it's good, it's just about getting more people to read it. Word of mouth has done great so far, this is just another method

[The Leaguer]

I'm pretty sure it's $125.

[Elijya]

I pre-ordered mine for $77.50

[Darthphere]

Something of interest:

http://forum.newsarama.com/showthread.php?t=98145

[Phoney Bone]

I don't think it's getting cancelled anytime soon. Image seems to be pretty happy with it. They're pushing it big time.

[ihateusernames]

anyone pick up the latest issue?

Does anyone know if Ricks artifical body parts have given him any powers? like enhanced strength and stuff?
you think he'll start fightig the good fight, if thats the case?

oh, and i just wanted to make sure. he remembers everything right? does that mean he knows marks identity too?

[Anubis]

All they showed about Rick was how he was dealing with this. He really connected with an agent who was going through a similar problem. Who knows what the future will bring for the guy. With most of his insides being mechanical, he probably does have some powers as a result. But we don't know yet.

[The Watchman]

Isn't it either the highest or second highest Image book being published, not to mention the movie in the works, why would they cancel something like that. Point being, they wouldn't.

[Roughneck]

I was gonna buy the big Hardcover...but I didn't, I bought the first TBP instead, I love it.

On Wed I am either gonna nab the harcovers or the rest of th TPBs...Prolly TPBs cause I don't like reading from Hardcovers.

[Elijya]

why not, roughie?

[CConn]

I'm not a fan of oversized hardcovers either. They're rather heavy and awkward to read.

[PWN3R]

Isn't it either the highest or second highest Image book being published, not to mention the movie in the works, why would they cancel something like that. Point being, they wouldn't.

Stop making sense.:huh:

I'm not a fan of oversized hardcovers either. They're rather heavy and awkward to read.

Yeah I feel the same way. Reading them is always odd. Yet collecting both hardcovers was a cheaper route than buying all the TPB's. Plus the extras were great.

[Elijya]

Yeah I feel the same way. Reading them is always odd. Yet collecting both hardcovers was a cheaper route than buying all the TPB's. Plus the extras were great.

'zactly

I've no problem reading them, though, I love em

The Absolute's are a bit awkward, but the regular 12" hardcovers are fine

[Roughneck]

I just don't like reading nything harcover....Novels or anything....I just prefer paperback

[CConn]

'zactly

I've no problem reading them, though, I love em

The Absolute's are a bit awkward, but the regular 12" hardcovers are fine
You must be stronger, and more physically fit than us.

[Elijya]

that was ever in question? :confused:

[The Leaguer]

The Absolutes are the only way to read a comic.

[CConn]

that was ever in question? :confused:
Well, I haven't taken a good long stare at one of your pics in quite a while, Eli. I just wasn't sure.

[HR-PUFF&STUFF]

well i finely got the lattest ish. and i can't wait for the next one.

[Anubis]

So, issue 39 came out. "FIRE PHASERS!" :D

Good ish. Can't wait to see the big battle in 40. Anybody else enjoy that preview for the Dynamo 5 in the back? That's got to be the most original team of heroes anybodies ever come up with. Seriously.

[LouFerignoDemon]

I like how they're implying Amber's gonna cheat on Mark.

[HR-PUFF&STUFF]

any one feel that even if amber were to give away marks ID Cicle would just mindwipe her and every one that she told?

[The Watchman]

Well, I haven't taken a good long stare at one of your pics in quite a while, Eli. I just wasn't sure.

I have, and I thought to myself - 'Hoy! It's Ben Seaver!'

Then I touched myself, because I'm sick. :csad:

[drastic_quench]

What's the hold up with The Complete Invincible Library Volume 1!!? I knew it went back to print because of shoddy quality, but that was back in December!

[HR-PUFF&STUFF]

Press Release

This March, Image Comics is offering readers who still haven't discovered INVINCIBLE a chance to try the series out for only $1.99. Featuring the start of a brand-new story arc and a complete recap of the series so far, INVINCIBLE #42 is the best jumping on point since issue #1.

Written by Robert Kirkman and featuring art by Ryan Ottley and colorist Bill Crabtree, INVINCIBLE #42 starts fresh after the devastating events of the Mars storyline concluding in issue #41.

"Mark has just saved the world, and it's not the first time, but everyone saw it happen," said Kirkman. "We're going to really start exploring Invincible's standing with the public starting with issue #42. Things are going to be a bit different from now on, and it's an excellent time for anyone who's been on the fence to finally take the plunge and find out what INVINCIBLE is all about."

Since its debut, INVINCIBLE has received widespread critical acclaim, with everyone from ENTERTAINMENT WEEKLY to WIZARD to G4 TV's ATTACK OF THE SHOW and Comedy Central's COMEDIANS OF COMEDY singing the title's praise. In 2004, Paramount Pictures optioned INVINCIBLE for a feature film, with Kirkman himself attached to write the screenplay.

"INVINCIBLE continues to be one of our most popular titles," stated Image Executive Director Eric Stephenson. "Sales continue to climb on both the single issues and the collections, but we still hear about people who haven't given it a chance. INVINCIBLE #42 is an excellent jumping-on point for those folks."

INVINCIBLE #42, a 24-page comic book in the Image Slimline format priced at $1.99, is available for order now (FEB071908) in the February issue of Previews and will go on sale April 25.

[Elijya]

What's the hold up with The Complete Invincible Library Volume 1!!? I knew it went back to print because of shoddy quality, but that was back in December!

I'm pretty sure it's scheduled for this week or next

[Dread]

For far too long I remained a mainstay of MARVEL COMICS board, despite the fact that INVINCIBLE is easily my favorite comic book out now, in some ways more enjoyable than even beloved titles like RUNAWAYS or YOUNG AVENGERS from Marvel (or mini's like ANNIHILATION or DR. STRANGE: OATH). So in an attempt to actually post a lot about books I actually like, I've come here. Especially since I never got around to finishing my praise at the TPB B/T thread, what better place to gush like a fanboy about Invincible than in the actual topic?

Like many, when Image announced this title along with several others in 2003, I gave a shrug. Image to me was about the 90's excesses, multiple #1's, Spawn, Savage Dragon, and titles like Gen 13, Wetworks, etc that crashed and burned. Then the hype train started after the first year's worth of stories after the Omni-Man reveal and suddenly the buzz was bakin'. Even WIZARD was singing praises. By the time I became interested, I was not quite deep in dough (I never am) and the concept of dropping $40+ on trades of unfamiliar ground is shakey. However, I was able to give it a try for free; my local library had the first Invincible TPB, which had issues #1-4 in it, and I read it through rather quick, circa about 2004-2005. I liked it. New universe, simple yet quirky characters, and that "young hero mixed with the real world with social awkwardness and hassles" that drew me into Spider-Man as a kid. You could see where the homages to past stories where and yet Kirkman was gelling and tweaking it just enough so that they seemed his own. A nice introduction.

It would be over a year until I got my full slab of it. By then, two hardcovers had come out collecting the first two years worth of stories with two trades after it. I'd had INVINCIBLE on the backburner for years, always wanting to try it but again, wary of dumping $45 bucks at once for it. Fortunately, I had help. I am pretty good friends with Moderator Supreme Dew K Mosi, and we often exchange gifts for birthdays and holidays. She owed me a few and so my pick was the first INVINCIBLE HC. I got it in the mail and suddenly that made collecting it all $20 cheaper. Before I even read it, I bought the second HC because I assumed I would enjoy it, and I knew my tastes well. The amusing intro from the first 4 issues was blown away by an endless gallery of supporting characters, hectic action, good dialogue, old-yet-new-again dynamics, and sudden twists and turns that Kirkman could do without the sorts of constraints that franchise characters have for the Big Two. The next two trades were a no-brainer less than a week later and it was good timing as it was during the haitus between I believe INVINCIBLE #35 and #36, when the trade collecting up to #35 came out maybe 2-3 weeks after the solo issue. I had no back issues to hunt down, only the easier-to-find trades. As much as the first HC kicked arse, the 6th & 7th trades all but blew that out of the sky with taut stories and some at times brutal action rarely seen outside of a Dragon Ball Z manga.

From then on I have been collecting monthly.

For those who know me from some of my reviews, let me point out that by nature I am kind of a negative pessimist, but over the past 1-2 years at Marvel (and some of DC), I have become increasing more bitter, cynical, and judgemental of the Big Two. Some weeks it is enough to wonder why I still bother collecting comics about characters I love when I sometimes feel exploited by the Big Two simply because they take that for granted, and are in an endless orgy of crossover events, shocking deaths, making heroes more despicable, and so on. But INVINCIBLE washes all that away and frankly is one of the handful of titles that can heal all the scars of past mainstream comic blunders and return me to a simplier feeling, the sort of happy, escapist joy I got from thumbing through my mother's AMAZING SPIDER-MAN comics in first or second grade.

I sometimes can lose my objectivity over negativity with some Marvel writers, but with INVINCIBLE I lose it for the other reason; I just really love the book. Each issue that comes out is the highlight of the week. Even though some stories are inevitably stronger than others, it all flows well in Kirkman's unique universe. Every action has a reaction, every subplot gets a conclusion and a sequal (if not a trilogy). There are no end of characters to explore and play off of besides the title character. There is seriousness and violence but also a bit of tongue-in-cheek with homages, humor, and some good natured ribbing. It feels just as much a love letter to the superhero genre as it is a worthwhile addition to it. It's everything I loved about Spider-Man and other young heroes without a lot of the editorial crap that has bogged them down for 40 years. Plus, to match Kirkman's art is some terrific, fundamentally appealing artwork by Ottley, who while Walker co-created the title, I feel Ottley is the stronger, more detailed artist (the Romita Sr. to Walker's Ditko). I recommend this title to people whenever I can and even loaned it to friends to scope out, and they are quickly hooked. A shame it isn't a Top 10 seller but with all the trades, HC's, and Omnibuis' it may win out in the long haul, when many of today's flashy stunts lay beneathe it in the dustbin of history.

I can't wait for the next threat, the next development of a storyline; when will Invincible battle the Viltruim armada? What are the full range of the Sequid's powers? What is next for the Guardians of the Globe, the Monster-Girl/Robot subplot, Allen the Alien, Oliver & Mrs. Grayson, Invincible's boss' unholy alliance with the creator of the Reanimen, Mark's love triangle (Atom Eve SO pwn's Mary Jane Watson) and so on? I care about all this ten times more than what happens in the latest shocking crossover-orama, and that's because this title delivers and isn't ashamed for what it is and what is expected of the genre.

Who would have thought after some of the 90's flash, that some Image comics would manage to find some true superhero substance (especially as they went on to rely on other genre's).

Dread :heart: INVINCIBLE.

#42 being $1.99 is a great idea to try to hook in new readers, and I just can't wait for the next issue.

[JackBauer]

For far too long I remaind a mainstay of MARVEL COMICS board, despite the fact that INVINCIBLE is easily my favorite comic book out now, in some ways more enjoyable than even beloved titles like RUNAWAYS or YOUNG AVENGERS from Marvel (or mini's like ANNIHILATION or DR. STRANGE: OATH). So in an attempt to actually post a lot about books I actually like, I've come here. Especially since I never got around to finishing my praise at the TPB B/T thread, what better place to gush like a fanboy about Invincible than in the actual topic?

Like many, when Image announced this title along with several others in 2003, I gave a shrug. Image to me was about the 90's excesses, multiple #1's, Spawn, Savage Dragon, and titles like Gen 13, Wetworks, etc that crashed and burned. Then the hype train started after the first year's worth of stories after the Omni-Man reveal and suddenly the buzz was bakin'. Even WIZARD was singing praises. By the time I became interested, I was not quite deep in dough (I never am) and the concept of dropping $40+ on trades of unfamiliar ground is shakey. However, I was able to give it a try for free; my local library had the first Invincible TPB, which had issues #1-4 in it, and I read it through rather quick, circa about 2004-2005. I liked it. New universe, simple yet quirky characters, and that "young hero mixed with the real world with social awkwardness and hassles" that drew me into Spider-Man as a kid. You could see where the homages to past stories where and yet Kirkman was gelling and tweaking it just enough so that they seemed his own. A nice introduction.

It would be over a year until I got my full slab of it. By then, two hardcovers had come out collecting the first two years worth of stories with two trades after it. I'd had INVINCIBLE on the backburner for years, always wanting to try it but again, wary of dumping $45 bucks at once for it. Fortunately, I had help. I am pretty good friends with Moderator Supreme Dew K Mosi, and we often exchange gifts for birthdays and holidays. She owed me a few and so my pick was the first INVINCIBLE HC. I got it in the mail and suddenly that made collecting it all $20 cheaper. Before I even read it, I bought the second HC because I assumed I would enjoy it, and I knew my tastes well. The amusing intro from the first 4 issues was blown away by an endless gallery of supporting characters, hectic action, good dialogue, old-yet-new-again dynamics, and sudden twists and turns that Kirkman could do without the sorts of constraints that franchise characters have for the Big Two. The next two trades were a no-brainer less than a week later and it was good timing as it was during the haitus between I believe INVINCIBLE #35 and #36, when the trade collecting up to #35 came out maybe 2-3 weeks after the solo issue. I had no back issues to hunt down, only the easier-to-find trades. As much as the first HC kicked arse, the 6th & 7th trades all but blew that out of the sky with taut stories and some at times brutal action rarely seen outside of a Dragon Ball Z manga.

From then on I have been collecting monthly.

For those who know me from some of my reviews, let me point out that by nature I am kind of a negative pessimist, but over the past 1-2 years at Marvel (and some of DC), I have become increasing more bitter, cynical, and judgemental of the Big Two. Some weeks it is enough to wonder why I still bother collecting comics about characters I love when I sometimes feel exploited by the Big Two simply because they take that for granted, and are in an endless orgy of crossover events, shocking deaths, making heroes more despicable, and so on. But INVINCIBLE washes all that away and frankly is one of the handful of titles that can heal all the scars of past mainstream comic blunders and return me to a simplier feeling, the sort of happy, escapist joy I got from thumbing through my mother's AMAZING SPIDER-MAN comics in first or second grade.

I sometimes can lose my objectivity over negativity with some Marvel writers, but with INVINCIBLE I lose it for the other reason; I just really love the book. Each issue that comes out is the highlight of the week. Even though some stories are inevitably stronger than others, it all flows well in Kirkman's unique universe. Every action has a reaction, every subplot gets a conclusion and a sequal (if not a trilogy). There are no end of characters to explore and play off of besides the title character. There is seriousness and violence but also a bit of tongue-in-cheek with homages, humor, and some good natured ribbing. It feels just as much a love letter to the superhero genre as it is a worthwhile addition to it. It's everything I loved about Spider-Man and other young heroes without a lot of the editorial crap that has bogged them down for 40 years. Plus, to match Kirkman's art is some terrific, fundamentally appealing artwork by Ottley, who while Walker co-created the title, I feel Ottley is the stronger, more detailed artist (the Romita Sr. to Walker's Ditko). I recommend this title to people whenever I can and even loaned it to friends to scope out, and they are quickly hooked. A shame it isn't a Top 10 seller but with all the trades, HC's, and Omnibuis' it may win out in the long haul, when many of today's flashy stunts lay beneathe it in the dustbin of history.

I can't wait for the next threat, the next development of a storyline; when will Invincible battle the Viltruim armada? What are the full range of the Sequid's powers? What is next for the Guardians of the Globe, the Monster-Girl/Robot subplot, Allen the Alien, Oliver & Mrs. Grayson, Invincible's boss' unholy alliance with the creator of the Reanimen, Mark's love triangle (Atom Eve SO pwn's Mary Jane Watson) and so on? I care about all this ten times more than what happens in the latest shocking crossover-orama, and that's because this title delivers and isn't ashamed for what it is and what is expected of the genre.

Who would have thought after some of the 90's flash, that some Image comics would manage to find some true superhero substance (especially as they went on to rely on other genre's).

Dread :heart: INVINCIBLE.

#42 being $1.99 is a great idea to try to hook in new readers, and I just can't wait for the next issue.

Love to see people getting hooked on the good stuff. :up:

I'm a lot like you, Dread. More and more I've been feeling cheated by the Big Two, up to a point where I don't even care anymore. It's not only bad editorial decisions, but there's just a lot of plain bad stuff out there. And it's mostly about the darker side of heroes. It gets tired really quickly.

I know I'm in the minority, but I love to see an old fashioned good guy story. Kinda like Invincible, kinda like Spider-Girl (good gal, on her case). I would say Superman, but frankly the last great Superman story I've read was Action Comics #775 (if you haven't read it, I'm positive you'll like it). but I digress.

The difference is that these kinds of comics give you great action and great plot, like all comics should be, and they leave you feeling great about it. After reading something like Civil War, what're you supposed to feel? It's the kind of story that's no fun at all.

You look at Invincible, I get a stupid grin on my face on the names alone. "Rex Splode"? "Allen the Alien"? It's just the kind of lightheartedness that's been missing in comics these years.

I hope Invincible only grows from here. It has everything going for it. I've already hooked about five people on it. I'm doing my job. ARE YOU DOING YOURS?! :mad:

[JackBauer]

btw, dunno if he's shown up before, but I loved seeing Bulletproof (aka the original name and design for Invincible) in the last issue. nice to know they didn't let a perfectly good name and design go to waste.

[Dread]

Love to see people getting hooked on the good stuff. :up:

I'm a lot like you, Dread. More and more I've been feeling cheated by the Big Two, up to a point where I don't even care anymore. It's not only bad editorial decisions, but there's just a lot of plain bad stuff out there. And it's mostly about the darker side of heroes. It gets tired really quickly.

I know I'm in the minority, but I love to see an old fashioned good guy story. Kinda like Invincible, kinda like Spider-Girl (good gal, on her case). I would say Superman, but frankly the last great Superman story I've read was Action Comics #775 (if you haven't read it, I'm positive you'll like it). but I digress.

The difference is that these kinds of comics give you great action and great plot, like all comics should be, and they leave you feeling great about it. After reading something like Civil War, what're you supposed to feel? It's the kind of story that's no fun at all.

You look at Invincible, I get a stupid grin on my face on the names alone. "Rex Splode"? "Allen the Alien"? It's just the kind of lightheartedness that's been missing in comics these years.

I hope Invincible only grows from here. It has everything going for it. I've already hooked about five people on it. I'm doing my job. ARE YOU DOING YOURS?! :mad:

I think I am. I got Cyclops and Mixairian into it, at least. ;)

Naturally, I agree with your post, something like CW easily leaves a sour taste in one's mouth, yet another story where heroes mess up, have a seedy underbelly, no real villian, everyone loses, tragedy, bad feelings, tra la la.

None of that from INVINCIBLE. That is not to say that every ending is "happy" or complete either, far from it. But that general good tone is there, that willingness to let heroes be heroes and villians be villians, where not everything has to be naunced to death. I mean there's no naunce when the Global Guardians take on the Lizard League. There still are thrills, chills, and spills (of blood), natch. But Kirkman still manages to keep the tone the appropriate shade for a superhero opera.

btw, dunno if he's shown up before, but I loved seeing Bulletproof (aka the original name and design for Invincible) in the last issue. nice to know they didn't let a perfectly good name and design go to waste.

Precisely. I mean he's not my favorite side character but it was very "real" to me to see the original sketch for Invincible himself be reworked into his own character. I used to doodle some comics in junior high/high school so it easily felt like something I would have done. Characters are good to come by, after all. Recycling is in. ;)

[LouFerignoDemon]

I think I am. I got Cyclops and Mixairian into it, at least. ;)

Naturally, I agree with your post, something like CW easily leaves a sour taste in one's mouth, yet another story where heroes mess up, have a seedy underbelly, no real villian, everyone loses, tragedy, bad feelings, tra la la.



That's actually only because it didn't resolve itself in an unnatural fashion. lol

But I agree. Invincible is a nice breath of fresh air.

[CConn]

I'm a lot like you, Dread. More and more I've been feeling cheated by the Big Two, up to a point where I don't even care anymore. It's not only bad editorial decisions, but there's just a lot of plain bad stuff out there.But isn't there a lot of plain bad stuff out there in general? Every publisher, major or indie. Big Two or not? I mean, Image has it's bad titles, Robert Kirkman as a writer has his bad titles. I really don't see how the fact that Invincible (and Walking Dead and Battle Pope:o) are good titles has anything to do with who publishes them.

[JackBauer]

But isn't there a lot of plain bad stuff out there in general? Every publisher, major or indie. Big Two or not? I mean, Image has it's bad titles, Robert Kirkman as a writer has his bad titles. I really don't see how the fact that Invincible (and Walking Dead and Battle Pope:o) are good titles has anything to do with who publishes them.

I'm just talking personal experience here, because the best comics I've read in recent years have been outside the mainstream of Marvel/DC. as soon as I started to branch out, I found myself enjoying greatness such as Barry Ween, Battle Pope, Walking Dead, Powers, Crossgen's Meridian, not to mention most of Vertigo. all of which have been favourites of mine.

which is not to say it's all bad. Marvel does have Runaways and pretty much anything Dan Slott does. DC has Shadowpact. to mention a few.

I say that about the big two because that's where I most resided, as I haven't seen much of Image (besides Invincible, and now Dynamo5) after its initial boost. so I can't really say the same about the overall state of Image right now. I can say it does look like it's better than it used to be.

[Dread]

But isn't there a lot of plain bad stuff out there in general? Every publisher, major or indie. Big Two or not? I mean, Image has it's bad titles, Robert Kirkman as a writer has his bad titles. I really don't see how the fact that Invincible (and Walking Dead and Battle Pope:o) are good titles has anything to do with who publishes them.

I know that, even though this wasn't directed at me. I would never be "done" with Marvel or DC as they always have some good titles.

Still, INVINCIBLE and DYNAMO 5 are superhero goodness. :)

[Anubis]

The Luna Brothers have been doing some really good stuff at Image as well. There original Mini series, Ultra, and the current limited series, Girls, are some of the best comics I've read. (And that's saying something.) Seriously, if you aren't reading Girls, then you really need to check it out. It's incredible. (And there's only two issues left so, best to go for the trades.)

[Dread]

The Luna Brothers have been doing some really good stuff at Image as well. There original Mini series, Ultra, and the current limited series, Girls, are some of the best comics I've read. (And that's saying something.) Seriously, if you aren't reading Girls, then you really need to check it out. It's incredible. (And there's only two issues left so, best to go for the trades.)

I've heard of both, really isn't my genre, sort of like WALKING DEAD isn't either (which I also heard good things about).

[Elijya]

one of my favorite lines from my into to the ORT, Dread, is, "the best works always transcend their genres". Give it a try, it might surprise you

[Anubis]

one of my favorite lines from my into to the ORT, Dread, is, "the best works always transcend their genres". Give it a try, it might surprise you


Quoted for Truth.

[The Leaguer]

I tried reading Girls because my roommate likes it. The art was so bad I punched him in the face for showing it to me.

[Anubis]

If it weren't for the fact that you've killed so many hookers in my name, I'd strike you down for that comment Leaguer.

[Dread]

To keep the discussion in topic,

After almost 40 issues, does anyone really think Kirkman is finally going to allow Invincible and Atomic Eve to date each other? They've had "near misses" a few times, usually with one being available while the other was not, which was cute and realistic. But it seems that Kirkman may be building towards exploring this route, and when they made out 2 issues ago, I literally thought, "It's about time!" in a happy tone.

Or, do you think Kirkman's setting up another cruel romantic obstacle for our leads?

Personally, I've always had a preference for male superheroes to date female superheroines, if only because romance with civilians is almost always more trouble than it is worth. The civilian rarely can understand the hero/heroine, can't defend him/herself from villians, goes through the usual complaining of "why you're never here/always late", etc. I mean I'm not in the "Kill MJ & Lois" camp, but I always figured it made logical sense for heroes to date "within the profession". Of course this could all be the result of Felicia Hardy being WAY more interesting and used than MJ was in the 90's SPIDER-MAN series, which I grew up on. :p

[LouFerignoDemon]

To keep the discussion in topic,

After almost 40 issues, does anyone really think Kirkman is finally going to allow Invincible and Atomic Eve to date each other? They've had "near misses" a few times, usually with one being available while the other was not, which was cute and realistic. But it seems that Kirkman may be building towards exploring this route, and when they made out 2 issues ago, I literally thought, "It's about time!" in a happy tone.

Or, do you think Kirkman's setting up another cruel romantic obstacle for our leads?

Personally, I've always had a preference for male superheroes to date female superheroines, if only because romance with civilians is almost always more trouble than it is worth. The civilian rarely can understand the hero/heroine, can't defend him/herself from villians, goes through the usual complaining of "why you're never here/always late", etc. I mean I'm not in the "Kill MJ & Lois" camp, but I always figured it made logical sense for heroes to date "within the profession". Of course this could all be the result of Felicia Hardy being WAY more interesting and used than MJ was in the 90's SPIDER-MAN series, which I grew up on. :p

I feel it's kind of interesting for super males to date regular females. Only because of the akward relationship. Because, in all truth, the lives superpeople lead at all doesn't contribute good vibes towards any relationship. If a superman were to date a superwoman, the result would be nearly the same due to all the work they have to do, and still lead civilian lives to pay the bills to at least feed what may be children, or at the very least, themselves. With a super/regular duo, you can somewhat eliminate that.

Either way, it looks like he's gearing up Amber to cheat on Mark. And just when I was really starting to like Amber. Not that you can blame her, but like I said, superheros don't exactly have lives that contribute that well to dating. They're kind of like police/doctors. Always in danger, and always on call.

I wanna see DupliKate cheat on Immortal with Mark. lol

[Anubis]

Seriously, what man can turn down a five way? I ask you?

[Dread]

I feel it's kind of interesting for super males to date regular females. Only because of the akward relationship. Because, in all truth, the lives superpeople lead at all doesn't contribute good vibes towards any relationship. If a superman were to date a superwoman, the result would be nearly the same due to all the work they have to do, and still lead civilian lives to pay the bills to at least feed what may be children, or at the very least, themselves. With a super/regular duo, you can somewhat eliminate that.

Either way, it looks like he's gearing up Amber to cheat on Mark. And just when I was really starting to like Amber. Not that you can blame her, but like I said, superheros don't exactly have lives that contribute that well to dating. They're kind of like police/doctors. Always in danger, and always on call.

I wanna see DupliKate cheat on Immortal with Mark. lol

Dupli-Kate definately would be a curveball. :p

I don't dislike Amber, but while you have a point that superhero/civilian romance is often more interesting, to me it usually is less stable and ends up in more hassles. That is not to say I don't like them. Just when heroes date each other, they can be more understanding of the demands of the job, whereas a civilian almost always has a last straw, as Amber is showing here.

Of course, there is an in-joke from that earlier issue about the "Science Dog" comic, about how a love triangle was going on for decades. So it wouldn't be too shocking if Kirkman seemed like he was leading towards finally pairing up Mark and Eve, only to have a twist. After all, Mark still wants to be with Amber, and hormones aside, chose her. Even if their relationship is on the rocks. Amber never sees him, and when he's around, Amber sometimes is busy. That was what led him into, literally, Eve's arms.

Naturally the chemistry between the two has been there since the beginning, but circumstances were never in their favor. What is against them, however, is "Moonlighting" syndrome. Many writers are masters at making romance seem dazzling during the chase, but crap out once the pair couple up, and things get boring. Makes one wonder how well their marriages are. :p And of course female characters usually end up worse for ware after being attached to a male one, but to be fair, Eve IS a supporting character of Invincible's comic, so it'd not be too jarring. She's spent long periods off panel as it is.

Plus, there still would be a little difference between Mark and Eve; Mark is still a superhero while Eve really has abandoned that lifestyle in favor of doing more long-term work in Africa. Just as she has powers and was an active heroine for a while, she'd understand. But it is awkward because she and Mark have been friends for a while. But Kirkman's definately building here, and the thing with INVINCIBLE is that every plot angle, minor or major, eventually gets established, and has a reaction and exploration.

[LouFerignoDemon]

Dupli-Kate definately would be a curveball. :p

I don't dislike Amber, but while you have a point that superhero/civilian romance is often more interesting, to me it usually is less stable and ends up in more hassles. That is not to say I don't like them. Just when heroes date each other, they can be more understanding of the demands of the job, whereas a civilian almost always has a last straw, as Amber is showing here.

Of course, there is an in-joke from that earlier issue about the "Science Dog" comic, about how a love triangle was going on for decades. So it wouldn't be too shocking if Kirkman seemed like he was leading towards finally pairing up Mark and Eve, only to have a twist. After all, Mark still wants to be with Amber, and hormones aside, chose her. Even if their relationship is on the rocks. Amber never sees him, and when he's around, Amber sometimes is busy. That was what led him into, literally, Eve's arms.

Naturally the chemistry between the two has been there since the beginning, but circumstances were never in their favor. What is against them, however, is "Moonlighting" syndrome. Many writers are masters at making romance seem dazzling during the chase, but crap out once the pair couple up, and things get boring. Makes one wonder how well their marriages are. :p And of course female characters usually end up worse for ware after being attached to a male one, but to be fair, Eve IS a supporting character of Invincible's comic, so it'd not be too jarring. She's spent long periods off panel as it is.

Plus, there still would be a little difference between Mark and Eve; Mark is still a superhero while Eve really has abandoned that lifestyle in favor of doing more long-term work in Africa. Just as she has powers and was an active heroine for a while, she'd understand. But it is awkward because she and Mark have been friends for a while. But Kirkman's definately building here, and the thing with INVINCIBLE is that every plot angle, minor or major, eventually gets established, and has a reaction and exploration.

XD You said chemistry. Nice pun.

[Dread]

XD You said chemistry. Nice pun.

Thanks. :word:

[Elijya]

On the other hand, though, Kirkman is CLEARLY a writer who likes to buck trends and mess around with tradition. Having a superhero comic all his own, that's more or less in it's own universe, means he is completely free to do non-traditional things, and he's shown himself to be more than willing to do them. Anyone been reading Walking Dead? What did he just do to Rick?

In Invincible, if he wanted to, he could blow up the earth and completely re-direct the series into a space-faring one. If he wanted. You don't have that kind of freedom in the MU and DCU.

So I don't expect him to necessarily keep to tradition and drag things out for as long as he can. In fact, that's what's great about Kirkman (along with alot of other creator-owned titles) is you truly don't know what to expect.

[Dread]

On the other hand, though, Kirkman is CLEARLY a writer who likes to buck trends and mess around with tradition. Having a superhero comic all his own, that's more or less in it's own universe, means he is completely free to do non-traditional things, and he's shown himself to be more than willing to do them. Anyone been reading Walking Dead? What did he just do to Rick?

In Invincible, if he wanted to, he could blow up the earth and completely re-direct the series into a space-faring one. If he wanted. You don't have that kind of freedom in the MU and DCU.

So I don't expect him to necessarily keep to tradition and drag things out for as long as he can. In fact, that's what's great about Kirkman (along with alot of other creator-owned titles) is you truly don't know what to expect.

Good point. Yeah, part of that freedom is part of what makes INVINCIBLE great. It has all the freedoms of an indie and yet has a lot of the spark and heart of a mainstream superhero universe. It even has Official Handbooks!

You're right, those twists are part of what keeps things rolling for Kirkman.

[Darthphere]

On the other hand, though, Kirkman is CLEARLY a writer who likes to buck trends and mess around with tradition. Having a superhero comic all his own, that's more or less in it's own universe, means he is completely free to do non-traditional things, and he's shown himself to be more than willing to do them. Anyone been reading Walking Dead? What did he just do to Rick?

Made him a murdering psycho?:huh:

[Anubis]

I don't blame him. That sonofab***h deserved to die, and I hope he burns in hell. :mad:

(There really should be a Sam Jackson Smiley)

[Elijya]

Made him a murdering psycho?:huh:

no, I meant cutting off his hand. Walking Dead doesn't take place in a world where someone can just whip him up a new cybernetic one

[Darthphere]

I don't blame him. That sonofab***h deserved to die, and I hope he burns in hell. :mad:

(There really should be a Sam Jackson Smiley)

Another hispanic brother down.:csad:

no, I meant cutting off his hand. Walking Dead doesn't take place in a world where someone can just whip him up a new cybernetic one

Oh yeah, I would never have seen that one coming.

[The Leaguer]

If it weren't for the fact that you've killed so many hookers in my name, I'd strike you down for that comment Leaguer.

1) I don't kill hookers for anyone but me, 2) you couldn't strike me down on your best day and 3) the art f***ing sucks.

[Eros]

Just want to to say I like Invincible alot, its a good book, and a good universe.

[ihateusernames]

I love the "angry" Mark we saw a few issues back, when he back handed that guy and broke his jaw.
I hope Kirkman explores the fact that he is half a Viltrumite, which means he does have a temper to deal with.

I don't think Eve and Mark are going to end up together, I think he'll choose Amber, catch her cheating, break up, go to Eve, and then accidently let slep the only reason he's come to Eve is because of what Amber's just done. Then Eve will say she can't be with him if she wasn't his first choice.

Something like that, anyway.

[Anubis]

1) I don't kill hookers for anyone but me, 2) you couldn't strike me down on your best day and 3) the art f***ing sucks.


1) You can lie to yourself all you want to, but that voice in your head? Guess what? It's me. 2) I can totally smite your ass. Don't push me buddy, because you will totally wake up tomorrow smoted. 3) It does f***ing not.

[The Leaguer]

Three strikes, you're out. Loser.

[Anubis]

Leaguer, you're a c***, and that's why I love you.

[The Leaguer]

Everyone loves me. Everyone!

[LouFerignoDemon]

I love the "angry" Mark we saw a few issues back, when he back handed that guy and broke his jaw.
I hope Kirkman explores the fact that he is half a Viltrumite, which means he does have a temper to deal with.

I don't think Eve and Mark are going to end up together, I think he'll choose Amber, catch her cheating, break up, go to Eve, and then accidently let slep the only reason he's come to Eve is because of what Amber's just done. Then Eve will say she can't be with him if she wasn't his first choice.

Something like that, anyway.

I don't think him being Viltrumite gives him that anger. If he were Puerto Rican.... *Buzz* Geez, fine. I take it back. If the Viltrumites basically had a disposition towards anger (which isn't evidenced several times throughout the story), then I'd say it. I think he's just somewhat reaching his breaking point.

And Eve is definitely the "it" girl of the entire story to Mark. Eventually, they'll do something, whether it stays or not, and what happens after is the question to ask.

Everyone loves me. Everyone!

Gluowned!

[Dread]

Viltrumites have an (obvious) rep for being overly aggressive by nature, especially as they spent a millenia "breeding out" their "weak" genes in genocidal cullings. In a way they remind me a lot of Saiyens, only without turning blond. Of course, naturally in the situations where Mark's "Viltrumite temper" have come forth have also been situations where any normal human being would be understandably enraged to the point of violence, such as fighting a guy who's hurt your mother and held your family hostage (Levy), or turned an associate into a mangled cyborg and did the same to dozens more (the Reanimen climax).

So, either Viltrumites are biologically prone to aggression as a result of all their genetic purging, or they simply are stereotyped that way because they are a ruthless, warmongering race.

As for Eve & Mark, I do feel that eventually Kirkman will have to have some sort of development here, although naturally it may not be what we expect, even if it would be nice reading, to avoid "Moonlighting" syndrome. I could see the "not your second choice" thing coming out between the two, but they've been teased with being a couple since the first year's worth of stories, so eventually we may see some result.

[LouFerignoDemon]

I wouldn't say it's genetic, but social for sure. Snakes are aggressive by nature.

I'd say stereotyped.

[Dread]

I wouldn't say it's genetic, but social for sure. Snakes are aggressive by nature.

I'd say stereotyped.

Probably, unless Kirkman goes into depth about their physiology.

The Viltrumites are much like some other "devotion to warfare" type alien races like the Klintons or the Triceritons (TMNT), and in those cases it is also a sociological/stereotypical thing, although their societies often encourage that, as the Viltrumites can literally kill any of their own they consider "weak" and are rewarded for it.

We should be seeing a female Viltrumite eventually, which should be interesting, at least according to Image's ambitious June solicts. And no, she doesn't have a mustache. ;)

[LouFerignoDemon]

In that case, I would agree (though my knowledge of Star Trek things is extremely limited). They do seem to share that "warrior race" trait that you see in several comic companies, and short tempers tend to be genetic. I could see it.

And female Viltrumite? I wanna see the return of War Woman and the Green Ghost. XD

[Dread]

In that case, I would agree (though my knowledge of Star Trek things is extremely limited). They do seem to share that "warrior race" trait that you see in several comic companies, and short tempers tend to be genetic. I could see it.

And female Viltrumite? I wanna see the return of War Woman and the Green Ghost. XD

http://www.comicscontinuum.com/stories/0703/22/invincible44.jpg

INVINCIBLE #44

Written by Robert Kirkman, art and cover by Ryan Ottley and Bill Crabtree.

Months ago, despite Invincible's defiance against them, the Viltrumites designated him the Viltrum agent on Earth, responsible for preparing it for takeover in 400 years. Now they have come to check in on him--and they've sent their fiercest, most deadly agent.

32 pages, $2.99, in stores on June 20.


Of course, sometimes these issues run late; Kirkman admitted that it takes a full 7 weeks to make an issue from start to finish, from script to Ottley's art to Crabtree's inks to colors/letters, so INVINCIBLE is almost a bimonthly (seeing 7 issues a year should be a blessing). But it's worth it anyway.

It actually makes sense that she's very butch and not looking TOO much like a supermodel. ;) After all, the Viltrumites are a warrior race, not sunbathers.

[LouFerignoDemon]

Apparently, they still have large breasts. Though, you'll never see me complain. I like the look. XD

[Dread]

Apparently, they still have large breasts. Though, you'll never see me complain. I like the look. XD

You have to have some fanservice somewhere. ;)

[drastic_quench]

I like seeing how Mark's allies are slowly coming together. Oliver, his 1/2 brother is growing rapidly enough that Invincible might have a sidekick or even a partner in a year or two. And now Allen the Alien's supposedly tougher and stronger than a Viltrumite. It's all just as interesting as ever.

I finally got my Complete Invincible Library! It's so sweet.

[HR-PUFF&STUFF]

http://www.comicscontinuum.com/stories/0703/22/invincible44.jpg

Viltrumite woman don't use tampons?

[Elijya]

someone needs to put a mustache on that

[blksuperman2]

http://www.comicscontinuum.com/stories/0703/22/invincible44.jpg



That's a scary chick.:wow:

[drastic_quench]

someone needs to put a mustache on that
Oh, no! What has Omni-Man gone and done now!?

http://img339.imageshack.us/img339/7900/invincible44stachedfy6.jpg

[blksuperman2]

^lol

[Anubis]

Bwahahaha :up:

[Eros]

Kon-el/Superboy and Superman VS. Invincible and Omni-Man.

[Elijya]

jesus christ - DQ, how do you have less than 1,400 posts? I've known you for two years

[Eros]

jesus christ - DQ, how do you have less than 1,400 posts? I've known you for two years


Perhaps he doesn't spend his entire waking life, posting on a message board.

[Elijya]

that wasn't the point I was going for, Eros, it's not an insult - I DO spend alot of my time here, pretty much, because I moderate, and my job is on the 'net anyway. There are tens of thousands of posters here, but only a few hundred I'm really aware of because I've seen them regularly and for a long time. Most of these posters accumulate a fair amount of posts, and that;'s the main reason they're noticable. So it's odd to realize that a poster who I know and like, and has been here a long long time, only has a handful of posts (relatively). It makes me wonder "how did this poster stand out to me with only a handful of posts?" Meanwhile, there's some posters with tens of Thousands of posts who I'll see and I'll ask "Who are they and how did they get so many posts without me ever noticing them?"

[Eros]

that wasn't the point I was going for, Eros, it's not an insult - I DO spend alot of my time here, pretty much, because I moderate, and my job is on the 'net anyway. There are tens of thousands of posters here, but only a few hundred I'm really aware of because I've seen them regularly and for a long time. Most of these posters accumulate a fair amount of posts, and that;'s the main reason they're noticable. So it's odd to realize that a poster who I know and like, and has been here a long long time, only has a handful of posts (relatively). It makes me wonder "how did this poster stand out to me with only a handful of posts?" Meanwhile, there's some posters with tens of Thousands of posts who I'll see and I'll ask "Who are they and how did they get so many posts without me ever noticing them?"


Okay I see your point.

[ang_hulk]

I want to get back into this book really bad.I finished with the first hardcover,have they coverd alot since then in trades?

[Elijya]

there's a second Hardcover out, and a third on the way. That'll catch you up nicely

[Dread]

I like seeing how Mark's allies are slowly coming together. Oliver, his 1/2 brother is growing rapidly enough that Invincible might have a sidekick or even a partner in a year or two. And now Allen the Alien's supposedly tougher and stronger than a Viltrumite. It's all just as interesting as ever.

I finally got my Complete Invincible Library! It's so sweet.

It is sweet. I saw that monster in the store, jeebus.

I also like how Mark's allies are also almost as interesting and worth getting the book for just for them sometimes. Allen is of course cool, so ar Robot, Monster Girl, etc. It would be cute if Oliver becomes a sort of "sidekick". Anyway, if Invincible is going to be taking on the Viltrumites, he will need help. ;)

[drastic_quench]

jesus christ - DQ, how do you have less than 1,400 posts? I've known you for two years
I guess maybe my comments are notable without being ubiquitous. Thanks. But I'll never get to use my huge avatar!

Anyways, check out Viltrumite Kirkman:
http://img71.imageshack.us/img71/9359/viltrumitekirkmanph8.jpg

[ang_hulk]

there's a second Hardcover out, and a third on the way. That'll catch you up nicely

awesome.for some reason i didnt go after issues of this book but then again I may have at some point but my shop didnt put them in because they cant get things stright.I just re read the first one,i love this book! I cant wait to see what ive missed.

[Anubis]

Lol, sweet DQ :up:

[PWN3R]

I don't know if this has been posted yet, but I love this picture. Taken from Ryan Ottley's myspace:


http://img401.imageshack.us/img401/6505/rkteletubbywz1.jpg

Explains a lot.

[fifthfiend]

It makes me wonder "how did this poster stand out to me with only a handful of posts?"

By putting moustaches on women, transforming them into Omni-Shman?

[Erzengel]

I just got into this comic. I breezed through the first 7 tpb's. I was going through them 2-3 in a day. Love this series. :heart:

[thedeadite]

weird enough...i've been doing the same. my friend just loaned me all the trades telling me how i need to be reading this...he was right.

[Elijya]

weird enough...i've been doing the same. my friend just loaned me all the trades telling me how i need to be reading this...he was right.

it's not that weird, there're more converts every day

[Dread]

Yep, INVINCIBLE's readership increases by as many as a dozen every month. Maybe soon it'll sell within the Top 115. :csad:

Kidding, bitter fanboy sarcasm at play; welcome aboard a great book. I wish it sold in the Top 10, like it deserves.

Anyway, reposting my review of the lastest slam-bang issue:

INVINCIBLE #40: One of the few comics that actually lives up to it's title tagger ("Probably the best superhero comic book in the universe"), and a title I eagerly anticipate each month. It melts my cynic's heart to still see a superhero universe done so well in a single title (yes, Kirkman loosely links it to other projects he has done, like CAPES and TECH JACKET, but he hasn't organized some inane crossover). When this book is "quiet", it still is entertaining, but man, when the fat is in the fire, it really PUMPS! This issue, more than some, proves that INVINCIBLE has become more than a book about a young solo hero, but a book about scores of superheroes and the wild, wacky, and violent universe they live in. Kirkman actually manages to almost make his B-plot seem more brutal and thrilling than his A-plot. The A-Plot is of course Invincible, Atomic Eve, Immortal, Shapesmith, Robot, Bulletproof, Black Samson & Monster Girl vs. the Sequid army that has overthrown Mars and is now set on Earth. Eve is pushed to the limit pulling her Invisible Woman act to save everyone several times, and the Sequids come off as a very unique enemy; not huge tankers like many villians, they have strength in endless waves of tiny numbers smothering beings. So even when everyone can smash dozens easy, the battle has a hectic pace to it, especially as Eve's stamina begins to fail. Elsewhere, Amber is enjoying a "friend" who doesn't bail on dates for every emergency (like filling in at work). She is SO leaving Mark. The B-Plot, however, is quiet gorey. If this were a mainstream book, sure, it'd sell like it deserves, but all the shocks would have been ruined weeks ago, and thus the issue less effective. At first seeming like a random fight to keep the B-List heroes busy (Rex Slode, Shrinking Ray, & Dupli-Kate) tangling with the Lizard League, it turned very gorey, very fast, thanks to the henchman of the year, Komodo. I was genuinely surprised it got that brutal so quick, and that at least one or two of those heroes may not have survived (and in fact been vicously murdered). Rex also shows off some tough-arse grit even in the face of defeat and loss, and he may be more than a jerkwad after all. I think I have an idea of how The Lizard League's leader will bite it, but Kirkman's surprised me before. Sometimes INVINCIBLE seems like a book that is almost too genre predictable with showey action and whatnot, so gorey, tragic battles when you least expect them showcase how dangerous this life is. Plus, got to love the solict for #41 that makes no secret that Invincible beats the Sequids. Kirkman knows how to play it. While the star is immortal, the side characters are not, and thus shocks come in. He may be a chore on ULTIMATE X-MEN, but here he is god. As always, this series doesn't come out often enough or sell as well for my benefit. Probably my favorite ongoing title.

[Eros]

well Dread, Invincible doesnt sell as well as it should because its at image, Plus kirkman ain't exactly as popular as other creators ala Bendis and morrison and Millar etc.

[Dread]

well Dread, Invincible doesnt sell as well as it should because its at image, Plus kirkman ain't exactly as popular as other creators ala Bendis and morrison and Millar etc.

Oh, I know. It still stinks.

[Elijya]

well Dread, Invincible doesnt sell as well as it should because its at image, Plus kirkman ain't exactly as popular as other creators ala Bendis and morrison and Millar etc.

other Image titles sell better

and Dread, you forgot Black Samson was with them, too

[Dread]

Yes, I did. So I editted. ;)

So, what are everything's thoughts on the Lizard League massacre?

As Shrinking Ray was swallowed and not exactly "eaten" or digested, much like Tweety Bird most times he's swallowed, I could see him surviving, and possibly saving Rex's bacon. I suppose Dupli-Kate could have had a dupe somewhere Komodo didn't see, but that is less known. Definately was more intense than I expected.

Nice to see Invincible supporting Eve from Immortal's badgering. Jeebus, that guy's intense. You'd think with that temper, he was a Viltrumite.

[PhotoJones]

You'd think with that temper, he was a Viltrumite.

do we know for sure that he's not? that could be interesting...

[Dread]

do we know for sure that he's not? that could be interesting...

Indeed. That would be a bit of a monkey-wrench. However:

1). He doesn't have a mustache, and isn't female. I suppose it could be shaved, but that's like a bald Shi'ar. It never happens. He'd be like Nappa, who was the only Saiyen without spikey hair.
2). Viltrumites can heal quickly, but so far have not been revealed to be capable of surviving being murdered so long as their parts are reconnected, as Immortal has. In Trade #7, Lucan (the only one of those 3 Viltrumites who was named) was slain from injuries far less than what Immortal has suffered. Immortal has been torn in two and decapitated and been able to survive so long as he was reconnected. Viltrumites so far have not been shown to be capable of that. They are killable. They just are incredibly tough; much like Saiyens (or Golden Age Kryptonians).

I think Immortal is a seperate class, as he is sort of a more heroic version of Vandal Savage, for the moment. But one never knows...after all, Viltrumites have bred with other species before...

[BAH HUMBBUG!]

I was just at my LCS, and I was scanning through some comics and I noticed they have the guide to the Invincible Universe A-k and K-W or something like that.

1. It said that Invincible has a typical strength range (height, weight, somone his age, exercise etc) of around 30 tons. I thought he was a lot stronger than that.

2. It said Omni-Man can easily lift (press) more than 100 tons. I thought he was a lot stronger than this too.

3. Why do other comics seem to use the stupid Marvel strength rating system?! :mad:

[Dread]

I was just at my LCS, and I was scanning through some comics and I noticed they have the guide to the Invincible Universe A-k and K-W or something like that.

1. It said that Invincible has a typical strength range (height, weight, somone his age, exercise etc) of around 30 tons. I thought he was a lot stronger than that.

2. It said Omni-Man can easily lift (press) more than 100 tons. I thought he was a lot stronger than this too.

3. Why do other comics seem to use the stupid Marvel strength rating system?! :mad:

1). The beginning of the second handbook has Invincible at around 70 tons as an "update". He was likely around 30 tons for the first two HC's or so.

2). 100 tons is the highest "ton class" in Marvel's strength system, and almost every character in this class can and has lifted more, the The Hulk.

3). It uses Marvel's strength system because it is easy to understand, they are homaging the classic handbooks of the 80's, and because it makes VS. debates online easier when everyone has the same frames of reference. Whereas DC lacks this so sometimes determining things like whether Superman is stronger than the Hulk is a matter of opinion and who gathers the most panel scans.

[BAH HUMBBUG!]

1). The beginning of the second handbook has Invincible at around 70 tons as an "update". He was likely around 30 tons for the first two HC's or so.

2). 100 tons is the highest "ton class" in Marvel's strength system, and almost every character in this class can and has lifted more, the The Hulk.

3). It uses Marvel's strength system because it is easy to understand, they are homaging the classic handbooks of the 80's, and because it makes VS. debates online easier when everyone has the same frames of reference. Whereas DC lacks this so sometimes determining things like whether Superman is stronger than the Hulk is a matter of opinion and who gathers the most panel scans.

1. I figured that, but I didn't know there was anothe one out. :up: Thanks for the info. I mean when he was helping re-build whatever planet it was he found his dad on and they (artist) made him appear to be in better shape after his dad informed him that he had to exercise to keep his abilities at their peak. One page had him lifting a huge stone column that had to weigh more than 30 tons.

2/3. I know that, but I would assume they would have gone with their own system. Forget paying hommage, go your own right. imho. I get what you're saying, but at the same time they could use something different as scale. If they didn't want to put exact numbers they could have said something like "The exact upper limit of Omni-Man's and all adult virtumite's strength levels are unknown, but Omni-Man has been seen easily lifting....a train that weighs at least 120 tons, or a cruise liner that weighs over 1200 tons."

Something like that would work, imho.

[Dread]

1. I figured that, but I didn't know there was anothe one out. :up: Thanks for the info. I mean when he was helping re-build whatever planet it was he found his dad on and they (artist) made him appear to be in better shape after his dad informed him that he had to exercise to keep his abilities at their peak. One page had him lifting a huge stone column that had to weigh more than 30 tons.

2/3. I know that, but I would assume they would have gone with their own system. Forget paying hommage, go your own right. imho. I get what you're saying, but at the same time they could use something different as scale. If they didn't want to put exact numbers they could have said something like "The exact upper limit of Omni-Man's and all adult virtumite's strength levels are unknown, but Omni-Man has been seen easily lifting....a train that weighs at least 120 tons, or a cruise liner that weighs over 1200 tons."

Something like that would work, imho.

You have a point. The solicts all but admit that the point of the Invincible Handbooks is to instantly compare them with the Marvel classic ones, but as you noted, their "rating scale" on strength and other "stats" can be fairly limiting. But, it was a quirky read, especially if you don't feel like flipping back through past tomes to recall some minion's name.

[BAH HUMBBUG!]

You have a point. The solicts all but admit that the point of the Invincible Handbooks is to instantly compare them with the Marvel classic ones, but as you noted, their "rating scale" on strength and other "stats" can be fairly limiting. But, it was a quirky read, especially if you don't feel like flipping back through past tomes to recall some minion's name.

Well that kind of bums me out a little admitting that they are making direct comparisons to Marvel's characters. :( That was part of the reason I liked Invincible so damn much, Kirkman seemed like he has a pretty good grasp on continuity and building a whole new super hero universe not based on Marvel or their standards.

It was the little things like Invincible getting winded and his dad having to tell him that he has to work out to stay in top shape and push the limits of his abilities and powers. It was like, what a concept, and the fact that he has a real life unlike most Marvel character's we can not relate to. imho.

It's not a big deal and I will read through them I am sure, but it just seems so out of character for Kirkman to do something like that and put some kind of limit on his characters. imho

[Dread]

The Handbooks were done with tongue-in-cheap. The stories are still how they are. He just wanted to add some attention to Invincible, add another product from the line to sell, and homage the old 80's Marvel HANDBOOKS. Homage.

[BAH HUMBBUG!]

The Handbooks were done with tongue-in-cheap. The stories are still how they are. He just wanted to add some attention to Invincible, add another product from the line to sell, and homage the old 80's Marvel HANDBOOKS. Homage.


Ahhh :up:

[HR-PUFF&STUFF]

i think that we should all give Rex Slode a hand after ish 40.:woot:

[Elijya]

The Handbooks were done with tongue-in-cheap. The stories are still how they are. He just wanted to add some attention to Invincible, add another product from the line to sell, and homage the old 80's Marvel HANDBOOKS. Homage.

Tongue-in-Cheap? Rex Slode? And I just came from a thread in community about Alex Baldwin

Is it type-o day on Hype?

[Anubis]

You forgot to put "the" before Hype.....

[gdatruth]

damn...loved this book. by far my favorite last week.
- i love develpoping love trinangle between Mark, his girlfriend and atomic eve. Interesting to see her interactions in a normal relationship and how the grass is greener. It seems like Mark is getting closer to eve, but i hope not bad happens to her long-term cause she seemed to be really exerting herself.

- the sub-plot with Rex was awesome. After 40 issues rex is finally showing redeeming heroic characteristics. You can tell he still has feelings for Kate. and hopefully there is another duplicate out there.

Both stories left me edge of my seat and hopefully i wont have to wait too long for the conclusion in 41

[Anubis]

She'd be pretty stupid to have not left a copy of herself behind, just in case.

[Elijya]

remember, she does have a brother, Multi-Paul, that we have yet to see

[Dread]

remember, she does have a brother, Multi-Paul, that we have yet to see

True, but Dupli-Kate is a better name. :D

[Anubis]

Only because she's a ****.

[Dread]

With the launch of ASTOUNDING WOLF-MAN by Kirkman (another fun book), anyone think it is inevitable that Wolfy teams with Invincible?

Image's main site claims issue #41 comes out this Wed. :word:

[HR-PUFF&STUFF]

http://www.imagecomics.com/gallery2/main.php?g2_view=core.DownloadItem&g2_itemId=180&g2_serialNumber=2

[The Geek Vault]

I've read the first 2 hardcover volumes and I gotta say I love the book! I've pretty much decided that I'm going to read the rest of them in hardcover too!

[PhotoJones]

Reposted from elsewhere:

Invincible #41 - If anyone's not reading this book it's because they've never picked it up before. It's the best superhero book on the stands. That means that nothing Marvel or DC put out (superhero-wise) is better than this one little Image book. That's a quite a feat Kirkman and Co. have pulled off, considering it's about a character that's only been around for a few years.

Anyway, the story continues on at an un-Bendisy pace, with Invincible and the rest of the Guardians defeating the Squids and returning home as champion heroes. It turns out that Dupli-Kate did in fact die, and the funeral is also held, off panel in the issue. Rex survived, even though he was shot point blank in the head, and it looks like the jury's still on Ray's status. It looked like he bit the bullet last issue, but there's no confirmation yet.

We also get treated to an appearance from Brit, which I'm sure will become the norm in the coming months as his new ongoing is preparing to debut.

The biggest thing in the issue is of course Mark and Amber's breakup. Hat's off to Kirkman for writing the scene with intelligence and understanding on both the character's parts. I don't think it's the end for these two just yet, though. I just have a feeling that it's not going to work out between Mark and Eve.

Lastly, is it me, or does Ryan Ottley's interiors get better and better with each issue, while his covers get worse and worse?

[Dread]

Always good to get a new fan. I started on the Hardcovers, too. I've seen that new "Omnibus" volume, DAMN, it is a monster! Phone Books have nothing on it!

Anyway, reposting from elsewhere. Heavy spoilers:

INVINCIBLE #41: To paraphrase a line from Topher Grace's Brock Jr./Venom from SPIDER-MAN 3, "I like reading Invincible. It makes me happy." Despite whatever paragraph or so I spend summarizing or throwing adjectives towards this book, that is my gut feeling, month after month. It offers all the things about superheroes that I like. Action. Comedy. Bright colors. Good dialogue. Human emotion. And when you least expect it, gore and sometimes death, without Newsarama or WIZARD killing it. If one is a true fan of the superhero genre, you're either reading INVINCIBLE, or dismayed at the thought of catching up on 41 issues via hardcovers to catch up. Or one of those poor, poor mainstream souls who doesn't know the book exists, because your shop orders maybe 6 copies at most and they're gone by the time you arrive, or stacked below or at the end of all the MARVEL/DC stuff. I did notice some things; firstly, while Ottley's art is again stellar, some panels seemed rushed, especially some of the backgrounds with all those sequids. Secondly, as issue #42 is being sold a dollar cheaper and as a "jumping on" point for new readers (it seems Kirkman does this with Invincible about every 2 years or so), there seemed to be some sort of rush to wrap up a lot of the subplots, so things happen in a hurry. I didn't mind it, but let's say if you are used to, say, 4 issues that take place within one scene, it gets very jarring. I loved the solicts for this issue, though, making no secret of Invincible's triumph. What? It IS his book after all. What the issue did show, however, is how forceful and direct he is getting in group battles. He rallies the team together when Eve's forcefield breaks. And when Robot finishes his device, he gets in Immortal's face to stop his constant showboating/aggressiveness, which hadn't helped much during this mission. As Eve noted, while Mark has always been a little smug at times, he's definately become more confident as his experience and powers have grown; he outright declares that he is stronger & faster than Immortal now. There still are those unresolved feelings with Eve, and by the time Mark gets back home, Amber's getting cosy with the new guy while still being "faithful". He gives her the break-up speach, and she's emotionally cut off, because she sort of ended the relationship in her mind beforehand, I felt. At least Mark had noble reasons for it, feeling it wasn't fair to string Amber along in his life, although naturally noting he wants to finally explore his feelings for Eve. They throw Invincible a parade, but aside for the cover and a TV screen, it happens off panel, which was interesting. Of course, the B-plot is actually what many of us really were surprised by. Rex gets shot in the head but STILL manages to take down the villian at the end, and while he is in the hospital, Dupli-Kate is indeed dead, with no confirmation of Shrinking Ray. Seeing as he was swallowed, Tweety-Bird style, I could imagine he lived. The ending of course is classic Kirkman, leaving a threat to be revisited for another day. Being that #42 will be a recap of the entire series, I am wondering how Kirkman will pull it off, but to be fair, he managed that in #0 and made it look relevant, being that it was Mark explaining his life to Amber, warts and all, and going over things that were then-raw, like his father's betrayal. So I'll wait and see. Naturally, every issue of Invincible is an enjoyable one to me. I fully admit that I am probably beyond all ability to objectively rate this book most times. I just love it. I gush about every issue like some obsessive fan, and that's the way it is, at least barring any meltdowns from Kirkman (lord knows the best of impressions couldn't keep me from being horribly disappointed by a lot of his ULTIMATE X-MEN). But here he has full reign over an entire universe full of quirky characters. I also wonder if his Wolf-Man character will ever guest in an ish, like Kirkman's Capes squad and even Tech-Jacket (and The Brit). Still, for a fan who caught the franchise late, it is good watching Invincible grow as a hero. Yes, grow. He's nowhere near the same at issue #41 as he was in issue #1, and it is a shame I couldn't say the same for USM. And Kirkman embraces all of the conventions and expectations of the superhero genre, instead of feeling like he has to apologize for them. Hence why he can even make "standard" things seem exciting, and pull some twists. Oh, and Ottley does have quite a few incredible splash-panels. No one can replace him on this book, not even Walker the co-creator. He's the Romita Sr. to Walker's Ditko on this book. Not the artist who co-created the character, but a legend on him in his own right. Bring on #42 in June, and I hope more readers give it a shot.

And yes, I even kept the line Not Jake disliked. :o

PLus, to be fair, even at their worst, Ottley's covers are as good as half of all of the covers for Ultimate books. OOohh, random image of Spidey climbing a wall. *twiddles fingers*

[PhotoJones]

Plus, to be fair, even at their worst, Ottley's covers are as good as half of all of the covers for Ultimate books. OOohh, random image of Spidey climbing a wall. *twiddles fingers*

But, you know what I'm talking about, right? It's like the covers are an after thought compared to his interiors. He's a very dynamic and kinetic artist, but #41's cover in particular is stiff and boring.

My favorite cover in recent memory is the one for #38. That one was nice.

[Dread]

But, you know what I'm talking about, right? It's like the covers are an after thought compared to his interiors. He's a very dynamic and kinetic artist, but #41's cover in particular is stiff and boring.

My favorite cover in recent memory is the one for #38. That one was nice.

I guess. To be honest, I've been conditioned not to care as much about covers as I used to as a kid. I mean half the time in the Big Two they barely reflect content. It could be because the interiors require the kinetic energy more than the covers.

The next cover has "$1.99 CHEAP" on the cover; nice homage to MAD MAGAZINE.

Being that Invincible's far stronger and quicker than he was the last time he and Nolan had their team-up, I wonder how he'd fare against a Viltrumite warrior now. Granted, with that new warrior woman coming, we may get to see. Considering the Viltrumites live for thousands of years, Mark at 18 is still basically a "baby" to them. It's also been a few issues since we've seen Mrs. Grayson & Oliver, wonderin' how they are doing. Oliver could be a little sidekick in 12 issues or so, maybe. ;)

In the letters page, Kirkman said we may see Titan return sooner than Battle Beast.

[Ikaris-Eternal]

I picked up all of Invincible based on the glowing reviews here - and I was very happy. Thanks all.

Probably the Greatest SuperHero Comic in the Universe indeed.

all the characters are handled with love and care. there is genuine emotion and "grip" to the stories, but Kirkman never loses the "wonder" and wide-eyed enthusiasm.

Great book.

[Dread]

I picked up all of Invincible based on the glowing reviews here - and I was very happy. Thanks all.

Probably the Greatest SuperHero Comic in the Universe indeed.

all the characters are handled with love and care. there is genuine emotion and "grip" to the stories, but Kirkman never loses the "wonder" and wide-eyed enthusiasm.

Great book.

I agree. Welcome aboard. Many of us here stumbled upon the book due to glowing reviews here, at least I did, and it's definately one of those books that everyone was right about.

It's easily my favorite comic book that I buy right now, and may be my favorite in years, ever since ASM back when I was a kid.

[gdatruth]

finally got to read this...and of course I loved.
Mark is really coming into his own and solidifing himself as the leader of earth's heroes. He really stepped up during the Squid arc. The conclusion of the sub-plots involving Rexplode & company and his former relationship were aslo handled well. Happy to see mark end the relationship in a mature manner and i hopd things work out with Kate. ending was also great. I love how kirkman ends these arcs but leaves the door open for the returning threat.

[Dread]

finally got to read this...and of course I loved.
Mark is really coming into his own and solidifing himself as the leader of earth's heroes. He really stepped up during the Squid arc. The conclusion of the sub-plots involving Rexplode & company and his former relationship were aslo handled well. Happy to see mark end the relationship in a mature manner and i hopd things work out with Kate. ending was also great. I love how kirkman ends these arcs but leaves the door open for the returning threat.

Definately. Kirkman always leaves the door open for more subplots. Heck, I was rather surprised the Lizard League factored in so heavilly.

Welcome aboard.

[Elijya]

the cult grows...

[PhotoJones]

If there's any book that deserves a growing fanbase, it's this one.

[Darthphere]

And who gets to decide that? You? Who died and made you cult inspector general?

[PhotoJones]

:huh:

[Darthphere]

Exactly. Pwned! 1337!11!!

[PhotoJones]

Why are you ruining the Invincible thread?

[Darthphere]

By ruining it, you mean making it oh so much more magical.

[PhotoJones]

Do you even read Invincible?

[Darthphere]

Of course you horse.

[PhotoJones]

I've never read a review of it by you, or even read posts talking about it.

[Darthphere]

I've never read a review of it by you, or even read posts talking about it.

Wait, you haven't read my posts about making love to the hardcovers? Those are legend.:csad:

[Anubis]

Yeah, he went into great detail about how the paper cuts he received upon his member were magically healed due to the books insane awesomeness.

[PhotoJones]

Oh. Well.

I guess I missed out. :o

[Anubis]

Not really. It was kinda creepy. Especially when he said he made his copy of Watchmen......watch.

[GoldenAgeHero]

^^hahaha. but yeah invincible is great stuff. JMS has been very dissapointing on ASM. When i read ising Stars i thought he would be the one to make spiderman magical again,boy was i wrong.:(

Invinicble is something i wish ASM can be again.

[PhotoJones]

^ That's...random. :huh:

[Anubis]

That's GAH.

[PWN3R]

I'm so glad Mark broke up with Amber. Atom Eve FTW.:heart:

[PhotoJones]

Amber's not going anywhere. I'm thinking their relationship is going to parallel Peter and MJ's relationship from USM. Atom Eve is filling the Kitty Pryde role for now.

[Elijya]

I say no, Eve is clearly "the one". She was introduced way before Amber, and Amber was basically a delaying technique to build drama between Eve and Mark. We might see Eve again from time to time, especially since she knows Mark identity, but she is not MJ

[PhotoJones]

I'll take that bet, and raise you $50.

[Anubis]

I think Mark and Eve are gonna end up with another thing getting in the way of their sweaty, super love. I figure Kirkman's gonna drag this out as much as possible.

[Elijya]

of course

[drastic_quench]

I say no, Eve is clearly "the one". She was introduced way before Amber, and Amber was basically a delaying technique to build drama between Eve and Mark. We might see Eve again from time to time, especially since she knows Mark identity, but she is not MJ
I think Kirkman's purposefully homaging or tipping his hat to Spidey's girls.
Gwen/Amber - blond first major girlfriend
Eve/Mary Jane - red head replacement

[HR-PUFF&STUFF]

I think Kirkman's purposefully homaging or tipping his hat to Spidey's girls.
Gwen/Amber - blond first major girlfriend
Eve/Mary Jane - red head replacement
or Eve is Jean Gray.

[Anubis]

Looks like they found Multipaul

#46
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v485/AnubisGOD/other%20stuff/inv46covercol.jpg

[LouFerignoDemon]

They kinda had to.

[Dread]

It's classic Kirkman on Invincible. Every action has a reaction, and every reaction a response. It was this sort of flowing story that made me love the 2k3 era TMNT and INVINCIBLE is a master of it. Naturally every issue is a much antcipated event for me.

I will say, though, that Dupli-Kate looked better in that uniform. ;)

[LouFerignoDemon]

No argument from me about Kate.

[Elijya]

HAHAHA! Check out Rex Splode's hand :D

[Artistsean]

I never noticed that before now, Amazing Spider-Man like action!

[LouFerignoDemon]

HAHAHA! Check out Rex Splode's hand :D

Good catch!

[Kenda Man]

I finished reading the whole series so far, and I like it.

I just had 3 questions about the series.



::::::SPOILER::::









Is Shrinking Ray really dead? I think he might have survived being swallowed whole by Komodo Dragon, and they did not mention the aftermath of him when Samson was sympathizing with the Immortal about Dupli-Kate's funeral.

Do you think Rex Splode got a new robot hand that allows him to make the explosions by doing the spidey "hand motion" as seen on the front cover of #46?

And how awesome are the Mauler Brothers? I think it was great when the clone found out he was a clone because the original Mauler had scars from the explosion and the clone killed the creator so it would be ambiguous as to who the clone is and that one will not boss the other one because they were the original Mauler.

I think the series is really good, and I look forward to it. I usually am not one for teen superheroes, but this comic really makes it accessible to anyone. The universe they created and occupied with villains is good. I hope Nolan is still alive.

[Elijya]

Is Shrinking Ray really dead? I think he might have survived being swallowed whole by Komodo Dragon, and they did not mention the aftermath of him when Samson was sympathizing with the Immortal about Dupli-Kate's funeral.


either's possible, I suppose. Invincible is not a book to pull punches, and therefore I can believe that he's dead. On the otherhand, there's plenty of possibilities for him to come back since he never got much screen time

[GoldenAgeHero]

^ That's...random. :huh:

HOW SO:huh:

[Dread]

I finished reading the whole series so far, and I like it.

I just had 3 questions about the series.



::::::SPOILER::::









Is Shrinking Ray really dead? I think he might have survived being swallowed whole by Komodo Dragon, and they did not mention the aftermath of him when Samson was sympathizing with the Immortal about Dupli-Kate's funeral.

Do you think Rex Splode got a new robot hand that allows him to make the explosions by doing the spidey "hand motion" as seen on the front cover of #46?

And how awesome are the Mauler Brothers? I think it was great when the clone found out he was a clone because the original Mauler had scars from the explosion and the clone killed the creator so it would be ambiguous as to who the clone is and that one will not boss the other one because they were the original Mauler.

I think the series is really good, and I look forward to it. I usually am not one for teen superheroes, but this comic really makes it accessible to anyone. The universe they created and occupied with villains is good. I hope Nolan is still alive.

Glad you like the series so far. To answer your questions:

1). Shrinking Ray was swallowed whole, Tweety-style, so in theory could be alive, as he hasn't been mourned as much as Dupli-Kate has been. But I wouldn't call his return a definate lock. If he did, the lack of concern may make him even more bitter.

2). That "spidey motion" on the cover was cool, and as Cecil & Co. can replace limbs and whatnot before, I don't see why they'd leave a hero like Rex Splode with only one wing.

3). The Mauler Twins are alright, although honestly I haven't missed them. They had a lot of panel-time and needed some break. INVINCIBLE has many old & new characters to rotate.

Now to repost my review of the last issue. Heavy spoilers!

INVINCIBLE #42: Really review-proof at this point; people who read it love it, and people who don't usually don't know what they are missing. This issue is a recap issue that is $1 cheaper with lots of taggers on the cover (which admittedly is fairly generic). Some of Mark Grayson's past is recapped by some astronauts debating his status as he works to help them establish a security station on the Moon following the thwarted Martian invasion of last month, and also in the several pages of recap of the series, USM style. The realist in me doubts this will lead to the sales this book deserves, but I don't blame Kirkman for trying, especially as he launches ASTONISHING WOLF-MAN. This series after all got him on the map and opened the doors for his Marvel work. The astronaut recaps actually don't seem too heavy handed as it creates the notion that not everyone worships Invincible as a hero, which is good because that gets unrealistic and boring (everyone has their skeptics/critics, espeically with the Omni-Man affair). Mark also fights a massive villain called The Giant and has a rematch with Octoboss, but the majority of the issue is low-key, as if taking a gasp of air from the back-to-back adventure arcs of the last 5 or so issues, which is a good idea as we anticipate the Viltrumite stuff to eventually come. INVINCIBLE combines the arc-serial format as well as the subplot format which is why it has the best of both approaches. Every action has a reaction and Kirkman is a master at exploring that stuff despite a large cast. Mark talks with William about breaking up with Amber and how it is effecting him, even if he did it for some good reasons (to allow her a more normal life, and to explore his feelings for Eve). It's good to see that he's not as cavalier about it as some of the fans may be (who have been shipping for Mark & Eve for years now), because that makes him seem more human in the story; despite all the logical reasons, he loved Amber so it will take some time to deal. The biggest development of course, is another the fans have been anticipating; seeing how his step-brother Oliver is doing. It was good to see Mrs. Grayson again, after being absent from many issues, and Oliver, who is still growing rapidly and after a few months resembles a kid who is maybe about 8 or 9. He has stilted "I learned English from textbooks" type dialogue, which is fitting, and it was interesting how Mark sort of probably imagined taking the place of his father as he wore his dad's old catcher's mitt. As well as remembering their own games of catch in happier times, which we experienced, so it flows together and seems more real than any silly retcon usually is. Naturally, the cliffhanger is that after asking Mark about when he could expect to gain superpowers (Mark, who was a "late bloomer", didn't gain his until he was 18 and nearly finished with high school, recall), only to reveal that he apparently can fly (or hover about 5 feet off the ground), and his powers are starting to bud. A lot is invested in Oliver on many sides; Cecil wants another Viltrumite powerhouse in his deck like Invincible, Mrs. Grayson has used caring for Oliver to overcome some of her depression regarding Omni-Man and give her some purpose (as well as, I am sure, relive those moments of child rearing most mothers liked, lord knows my mother has gone on and on about missing the young childhood years of my life), and Mark naturally doesn't mind a little brother. The fans may be eager to see Oliver don some domino mask and be Invinci-Boy or something, which will be interesting, but I am content to be patient on that angle for now to see Oliver & Co. develop, and because I have faith in Kirkman here that whatever angles worth exploring, he will, in due time. It might be interesting if Oliver becomes a much better student than Mark, who is flunking out of college because he'd rather be Invincible, is. Basically I am saying, I have no doubt Oliver will be involved in adventures soon enough, let's not yell if Kirkman doesn't rush it. My favorite book every month, even if these days it has some competition.

[Kenda Man]

Glad you like the series so far. To answer your questions:

1). Shrinking Ray was swallowed whole, Tweety-style, so in theory could be alive, as he hasn't been mourned as much as Dupli-Kate has been. But I wouldn't call his return a definate lock. If he did, the lack of concern may make him even more bitter.

2). That "spidey motion" on the cover was cool, and as Cecil & Co. can replace limbs and whatnot before, I don't see why they'd leave a hero like Rex Splode with only one wing.



Yeah, I figured if Shrinking Ray was officially gone, they would have shown Komodo chomping away at Ray instead of shallowing whole. I guess it can be left that he either died or survived.

Your not kidding about Cecil replacing body parts for characters. Rick, and Derek being off the top of my head that had replacements. I think it would make more sense to enable both Rex's hands to do that, but he could keep it that his right charges weapons while his right fires those exploding pellets. I am interested in seeing what Cecil plans to have D.A. Sinclair create, because those robot/ zombie creations he had were cool.

I am glad they gave more of a reason why the Immortal acts like he does. The idea of him not being attached because everyone he knows eventual dies because he outlives them is cool. Either way, I'm looking forward to reading what happens next.

[Phoney Bone]

Looks like they found Multipaul

#46
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v485/AnubisGOD/other%20stuff/inv46covercol.jpg

Sweet I've been waiting for the resolution to this plot ever since they mentioned he had disapeered.

[PhotoJones]

I've said before that Ottley's covers have been a little lacking lately, but this one looks great. :up:

[Dread]

Yeah, I figured if Shrinking Ray was officially gone, they would have shown Komodo chomping away at Ray instead of shallowing whole. I guess it can be left that he either died or survived.

Your not kidding about Cecil replacing body parts for characters. Rick, and Derek being off the top of my head that had replacements. I think it would make more sense to enable both Rex's hands to do that, but he could keep it that his right charges weapons while his right fires those exploding pellets. I am interested in seeing what Cecil plans to have D.A. Sinclair create, because those robot/ zombie creations he had were cool.

I am glad they gave more of a reason why the Immortal acts like he does. The idea of him not being attached because everyone he knows eventual dies because he outlives them is cool. Either way, I'm looking forward to reading what happens next.

D.A. Sinclair could end up working on soldiers to perhaps combat the inevitable Viltrumite invasion, or something else. It will be interesting if Grayson ever finds out about Cecil's dealings here; it would be the second time a mentor in his life and he parted paths.

We may have to wait on Shrinking Ray. His survival is possible but so is his death. ;)

Immortal is probably violent and brash because he came from an age when warriors were all really aggressive (think 300), and with him being virtually unkillable he can be more willing to take damage to deliver some blows.

Sweet I've been waiting for the resolution to this plot ever since they mentioned he had disapeered.

Kirkman waited for the right time for it. Timing is indeed everything.

I've said before that Ottley's covers have been a little lacking lately, but this one looks great. :up:

Agreed, that is his best in a while.

[Roughneck]

When is the next TPB due?

[O'Haire]

Got my Invincible Ultimate Collection Volume 1 today. Loving it so far.

Ordered Volumes 2 and 3. So I will have them next month. Can't wait.

[DRUMM3RBOY]

i luv these comics:yay:

[Dread]

Nice to see two new fans.

Reposting my review of the latest issue to bump. Heavy spoilers.

INVINCIBLE #43: Still review-proof and still the best damn superhero book, period (to paraphrase a TV show title). After a few months of some "bland" covers from otherwise excellent interior artist Ottley, we get a cover that has a cool space-duel with varying perspectives, capturing space well. And hey, it actually happens inside the book, reflecting the interiors well! Remember when covers did that? This issue picks up from the subtle reveal of last month's cheap recap issue, that Mark Grayson's alien brother Oliver's powers are budding. The issue is also another example of what makes Invincible such a great read. It blends everything someone usually liked in a superhero title, or even a universe. There are characters from a variety of genres, from aliens to hybrids to supernaturals to cyborgs, etc. The action is great and the human moments are never forgotten and usually feel down to earth, even when they involve aliens or half-aliens. And while Grayson is the star, the supporting characters are all cool in their own right, easily carrying half issues without trouble. And yet neither Image or Kirkman have gone the X-Men/Avenger/Spider-Man route yet, launching 100 spin-off's. This issue, obviously by the cover, has the return of agrueably one of Invincible's coolest side characters, Allen the Alien (one of few who actually had an ENTIRE issue devoted to him once). After taking a breather from the last two arc's hectic pace, Mark talks to his mother about caring/teaching Oliver as well as his future in school. Mrs. Grayson is quite a unique "mother figure" for a hero in some ways, doting and yet not so much that she becomes annoying, something that plagued Aunt May for ages. The book also benefits from it's own rich history and long lifespan (43 issues and counting is a rarity these days); when Mark mentions how he reacted when his powers first budded, it feels real because we watched it, and it's in fresh memory. They talk of Mark's father and naturally that grows complicated, with Mark possibly having to step into his dad's shoes moreso to sort of be a mentor for his little brother, something I am sure some single-parent families have had to deal with (if my mom ever had a second kid, I'd likely have been in Mark's shoes). The other key issue addressed is Immortal's aggressive temper; he has been getting progressively worse, and apparently losing his young bride Dupli-Kate so soon was a last straw. When Allen shows up, he instantly attacks and Invincible has to diffuse the situation. Some current power levels are discussed (Immortal's not nearly as strong as Invincible or Allen), and Allen has seriously bulked up. He basically is an Ubermench; whatever doesn't kill him causes his body to become stronger, and after being torn apart by 3 Viltrumites, not much may be able to kill him now. The guy outright and honestly admits he could beat Invincible, but still remains the same loveable alien buddy that makes him unique. Mark is in no rush to abandon his Earth life again after so much time in space and shares info with Allen. After so many mainstream superhero stories about superheroes infighting and betraying each other, it is nice to see some professional curtesies. Allen accepts Mark's wishes no to accompany him in space until an actual crisis needs thwarting, but offers up his father's books for key intel against the Viltrumites. William also meets Allen, sort of, with amusing results. The final page has another question fans have been asking about to be answered (Eve, after talking with Rex Slode, literally asks Mark if they are dating now), and then there is a stagging 3 pages of letters. What is also cool is how this book, given time, always seems to answer the questions the fans have in the story without making those fan queries seem like the ramblings of dunderheaded idiots, such as every time Bendis "answers" some internet/letter mumblings with in-story acts. Everyone wondered about Oliver, now that got addressed. People wondered about Mark & Eve, and that is about to get looked at. And later we will be seeing more Viltrumites (especially a woman, who lacks their trademark mustache) and Multi-Paul. Every action has a reaction and it all flows very organically; just sometimes one needs patience (the Sequid story started with #18 years ago, and eventually the Titan will have to return). It asks fans either have a long memory or invest in the various trade collections, but the reward is worth it. The human stuff matters as much as the superhero stuff. And it has characters that are free from franchise restrictions to grow and change, but not to out of character degrees (Robot hasn't decided to lock all his friends in a Gulug because he feels it's for the best, for example). This is Kirkman's one-book universe and he's a master storyteller of it, and Ottley's art is synonymous with it, matching Kirkman's pace well. IMO, he's developped into a better artist and storyteller than even Corey Walker, who co-created Invincible and most of these characters, which is saying something because Walker's still at the top of his game (see his recent stint on IRREDEEMABLE ANT-MAN). It delivers everything I ask for and love in superhero comics, which once upon a time, ASM did. My fanboy heart was broken by Spider-Man twice, both in 616 in Clone Saga and in USM with...Clone Saga. Invincible's been there to fill some of those jaded, bitter fan cracks. Fans have to "endure" a lot of crap with their favorite franchises with the Big Two, sometimes DECADES worth, but INVINCIBLE's just been pure glory. In the letters page, Kirkman expresses wanting to write the book until #300, but also wants it to outlive him, much as Spider-Man will outlive Stan Lee & Steve Ditko. There also is a hilarous letter from someone who must be a TV network executive, because his theory that "Invincible would sell better if Kirkman didn't invoke the Lord's name in vain with exclamations so often" proves he just doesn't get it. The letters also show the core audience may be older fans in the 30's too jaded by the Big Two and coming here for the fundamentals. In a parallel universe, INVINCIBLE sells at #1 and not NEW AVENGERS. But in this one, I'll always be here so long as I have $3 in my pocket and a store within the state. If you're not on it, either straight up superhero stuff that is the heart of the genre isn't your thing, or catching up on almost 4 years of material is too daunting, but with new HC's and Omnibus editions floating out there, it's worth it. Grab it.

[RedKamel]

Invincible is definitely a highlight read every month ... I used to stick to mainstream titles, but this one has turned me! I'm caught up on Invincible and just recently caught up on The Walking Dead, GREAT READ!

[Dread]

Walking Dead isn't my thing, although it has been recommended endlessly to me.

Interesting that a lot of these new fans are also new posters to SHH, relatively speaking. Welcome.

[Anubis]

Dude, for the love of God, just try it. So what it's got zombies in it? Watch, you're gonna read it, then realize how much of an idiot you were for having not because of preconceived notions about zombie crap. Every genre has merit. You just gotta read the best to truly get a feel for it. And Walking Dead, is the best of the best.

[Elijya]

wait, have you even tried it?

[Anubis]

Of course not, Zombies suck. :o :p

[RedKamel]

Walking Dead isn't my thing, although it has been recommended endlessly to me.

Interesting that a lot of these new fans are also new posters to SHH, relatively speaking. Welcome.


You definitely need to check out The Walking Dead ... I was skeptical at first too ,but it is a great read.

I was a long time lurker, seldom poster, but let me account expire and never renewed it, just read posts anonymously ... figured I needed to get back into posting so I re-registered ....

[HR-PUFF&STUFF]

Did i miss this!!!!
In Stores June 27, 2007


http://www.imagecomics.com/gallery2/g2data_373ph4nt/albums/comics/2007-06/invincible43.jpg
INVINCIBLE #43

story ROBERT KIRKMAN, art & cover RYAN OTTLEY & BILL CRABTREE
32 PAGES, FC, $2.99

SPACE FIGHT!
Allen the Alien has returned to Earth, seeking more information from Invincible that he can use against the Viltrumite Empire. Unfortunately, The Immortal is giving Allen a less-than-warm welcome.

[Elijya]

yup. Came out last week

[Phoney Bone]

Picked up the "My Favorite Martian" TPB. Funny, I only started reading this series in TPB's around Christmas, and now I'm pretty much caught up with it to the present! I'm debating about just picking it up in singles. Are the Heroes Inc. back-ups good?

[HR-PUFF&STUFF]

yup. Came out last week****!

[Anubis]

Picked up the "My Favorite Martian" TPB. Funny, I only started reading this series in TPB's around Christmas, and now I'm pretty much caught up with it to the present! I'm debating about just picking it up in singles. Are the Heroes Inc. back-ups good?


Arts kinda meh, but overall it's good.

[Eros]

I thought this series had been canceled already? Its a very good comic, although extremely convoulted as I have been told.

[Anubis]

Somebody done told you wrong there Eros.

[HR-PUFF&STUFF]

I thought this series had been canceled already? Its a very good comic, although extremely convoulted as I have been told.and who said that?

[Eros]

and who said that?


some dudes I know who use to read the comic, but they found it to "silver-age heavy" for them. Thye told me the comic suffered from Low sales, and was about to be axed.

[Elijya]

What? No, it's one of Image's most consistent sellers. The trades are a cash cow. They've released soft covers, hardcovers, and a massive $125 slipcase that has the first 24 issues and tons of bonus material. They don't do that for failing titles. Have you read it or are you just taking your friends' words for it? (and they obviously don't seem to know what they're talking about)

[Anubis]

It's the highest selling book for Image. Not likely to happen. 20,000 copies is the equivalent of 100,000 in the indie world. It's going strong and there isn't any sign of the book being canned.

Also, read it for yourself. Those dudes obviously have bad taste. I never seen a guy get ripped in half in the Sliver-Age, or a hero unloading on a regular human being, ripping his jaw off the hinges. Then again, maybe I've read the wrong Silver-Age books. Try it for yourself. Check out the hardcover. It's the best Superhero comic book in comics. I s**t you not.

[Elijya]

It's the highest selling book for Image.

I don't think it's the #1

[Eros]

What? No, it was of Image's most consistent sellers. The trades are a cash cow. They're released soft covers, hardcovers, and a massive $125 slipcase that has the first 24 issues and tons of bonus material. They don't do that for failing titles.

I don't read the book, so I didn't know, I just heard it is more of a cult favorite with alot of silver-age stuff happening.

[Anubis]

I don't think it's the #1


What is? Freakin' Spawn? Savage Dragon? I can't think of any thing that possibly outsells it.

[Elijya]

according to the May 2007 sales chart I'm looking at

91 Frank Frazettas Death Dealer 2 $3.99 Image 25,831
94 Spawn 167 $2.95 Image 24,269
105 Spawn Godslayer 1 $2.99 Image 21,226
124 Kiss 4k 1 $3.99 Image 17,717
137 Witchblade 105 $2.99 Image 16,091
147 Witchblade 106 $2.99 Image 14,770
153 Invincible 41 $2.99 Image 13,424

[Anubis]

Wow. WTF is still buying Spawn?

I thought Witchblade was Top Cow, and Top Cow was independent now?

[Eros]

according to the May 2007 sales chart I'm looking at

91 Frank Frazettas Death Dealer 2 $3.99 Image 25,831
94 Spawn 167 $2.95 Image 24,269
105 Spawn Godslayer 1 $2.99 Image 21,226
124 Kiss 4k 1 $3.99 Image 17,717
137 Witchblade 105 $2.99 Image 16,091
147 Witchblade 106 $2.99 Image 14,770
153 Invincible 41 $2.99 Image 13,424

So it is very low selling, it not even outselling Spawn.

[Anubis]

Like I said, even at 13,000 that's still very good for image.

[Elijya]

I don't read the book, so I didn't know, I just heard it is more of a cult favorite with alot of silver-age stuff happening.

I don't know if it's "cult" It has a loyal fan following, and it's one of the highest selling non-Marvel/DC books being published. It's also routinely called the best superhero comic being published right now. And I don't know what "silver age stuff" entails exactly. It sounds like your friends didn't care for it and painted a pretty bad picture for you

check out the Amazon reviews: 19 5/5, 1 4/5 and 1 3/5, and nothing lower
http://www.amazon.com/Invincible-Ultimate-Collection-Vol-1/dp/158240500X/ref=pd_bbs_sr_4/002-9967548-5886434?ie=UTF8&s=books&qid=1183952818&sr=8-4

5/5 Excellent Choice for my First Comic, June 19, 2007
By Devan Reid "the ginger poet" (Upstate NY) - See all my reviews
I didn't read comics as a kid, but I have always been fasinated with superheroes. After consulting several recommendations lists and reading lots of reviews, I chose Invincible as my first comic. I wasn't disappointed. It has everything I expected from a comic - a larger than life hero, lots of action, excellent artwork, and easy to read. It also had things I hadn't expected - the hero has more than one dimension and story is mature enough to hold an adult's attention. I read a wide variety of genres from classics to biographies, from fiction to science fiction, and this was just as enjoyable to read. I'm looking forward to getting volumes 2 and 3!

5/5 Much, much, much better than 90% of the stuff I've read last year., December 11, 2006
By T. Tiu - See all my reviews
(REAL NAME)
Just wanted to chime in with all the praise. I am in complete agreement. After reading this, I just couldn't help but feel like I've been cheating of a great comic book reading experience by all the other comics that I've read this year. If all writers wrote like Robert Kirkman, I'd be reading as many comic books titles as I did when I was a kid. Invincible brings that magic back.

5/5 Addicting, February 23, 2006
By Matt Kopriva (Austin, TX USA) - See all my reviews
(REAL NAME)
This book is absolutely addicting. It was incredibly hard to put down once I started and is utterly entertaining until the very end. Something that I appreciated about the ending was that it wasn't a cliff hanger but still left you with wanting something more. Not only is the writing great thanks to Robert Kirkman but it has easy on the eye art. It isn't too flashy but isn't too simple either, it just fits and works. Getting this book definitely got me hooked on the series and made me appriciate Kirkman even more for being able to tell an intriguingly entertaining story. Although there isn't much cursing in this series, I would recommened to parents to read this first before letting their kids under 13 read this title for the violence in the second half of the book. But other than that this book is great for anyone of any age or sex.

[quote]

[Eros]

Like I said, even at 13,000 that's still very good for image.

Its not doing spawn and witchblade Numbers.

[Elijya]

So it is very low selling, it not even outselling Spawn.

those are the top selling Image books, so #7 is pretty good consider Image publishes several dozen titles. The diamond sales list tracks the 300 top selling monthly comics. Invincible is smack dab in the middle, meaning it outsells more than half of all comics being professionall printed. It's one of the top selling books not published by Marvel and DC (the "Big 2" publishers who dominate the market with over 75% market share)

Spawn and witchblade sell because people like the "hot" art and haven't cared about how much the stories stink. You will virtually never hear anyone actually recommend them.

and the Invincible trades outsell Witchblade and Spawn trades by a factor of ten

[Anubis]

Which isn't even doing Omega Flight numbers.

[Eros]

those are the top selling Image books, so #7 is pretty good consider Image publishes several dozen titles.


but Invincible is the better comic according to people, I Just don't understand why the hell 24 thousand people still read spawn.

[Elijya]

Wow. WTF is still buying Spawn?

I thought Witchblade was Top Cow, and Top Cow was independent now?

Top Cow is a branch of Image. They briefly separated a few years ago as I recall, but quickly rejoined.

[Anubis]

Take a look at the top ten and tell me you can't think of a few titles that should be there instead of them? People buy crap. Both Witchblade and Spawn are long running series. Just like you have people buying X-Men for completeists sake, you got the same buying Spawn for the same reason. Then you got the few that actually like the books. Strange but true.

[Elijya]

but Invincible is the better comic according to people, I Just don't understand why the hell 24 thousand people still read spawn.

Like I said, sometimes people like things for the characters or the art without caring for the story. That's the same reason Wolverine: Origins comics still sell over 70,000 copies even though it seems to be pretty much consensus that the book is bad. Quality does not always equal sales. How often are the Academy Award nominees for best picture also the top grossing films of the year? rarely

[LouFerignoDemon]

Like I said, sometimes people like things for the characters or the art without caring for the story. That's the same reason Wolverine: Origins comics still sell over 70,000 copies even though it seems to be pretty much consensus that the book is bad. Quality does not always equal sales. How often are the Academy Award nominees for best picture also the top grossing films of the year? rarely


Another instance. How many people complained about how WWH kind of sucked because the art wasn't up to par with Civil War?

[Elijya]

this is two years old, but still:

Image Comic's Invincible Optioned By Paramount Pictures

Posted: Friday, March 4
Posted By: Mike Storniolo
Print This Item

Paramount Pictures has announced the purchase of the film rights to Robert Kirkman and Cory Walker's INVINCIBLE comic book, published monthly by Image Comics. So strong is Kirkman's writing on the book that he has also been tapped to write the screenplay for the film, a rare accomplishment considering this will be Kirkman's first script. Paramount sees the INVINCIBLE movie as a potential franchise starter, and has set the film up with producer Lorenzo Di Bonaventura (who is also listed as a producer for Warner Brothers' CONSTANTINE and Universal's upcoming DOOM). Circle of Confusion, an ambitious Hollywood agency the represents Kirkman, as well as creators such as Brian Michael Bendis (POWERS), Michael Avon Oeming (POWERS, 86 VOLTZ, HAMMER OF THE GODS, SIX), the Luna Brothers (ULTRA), Ed Brubaker, and the Wachowski Brothers (of "The Matrix" fame), has been set up as the production house.

"I had so much fun writing it the first time around that I can't wait to write it all again in a new medium," says Kirkman.

On the heels of the Paramount announcement, Image will be soliciting a hardcover INVINCIBLE edition, collecting the first thirteen issues of the Eisner-nominated book. INVINCIBLE: THE ULTIMATE COLLECTION VOL. 1, will clock in at an impressive 400 pages and will retail for $34.95. The issues collected feature artwork from series co-creator Cory Walker and current INVINCIBLE artist Ryan Ottley, and will contain a plethora of bonus material, as well as an introduction by superstar writer Brian Michael Bendis.

Additionally, Image is releasing a fifty-cent "zero" issue of INVINCIBLE in April. The sixteen page INVINCIBLE #0 provides an ideal jumping-on point for those who have yet to discover what may well be the best superhero comic book in the world. The story includes the origin of Invincible, and brings new readers up to speed while laying down the groundwork for upcoming storylines. As such, the book is a must-have for old and new readers alike.

Picking up INVINCIBLE #0 will make it that much easier for readers to prepare themselves for the stunning shake-ups Kirkman has planned for INVINCIBLE #25, headed to shops in July. While the book has become well known for the twisting and turning plotlines, even veteran readers are in for a shock when the summer rolls around.

Image Comics Publisher Erik Larsen has been a Kirkman booster from day one, and sees the success of INVINCIBLE as a the much-deserved result of talent and hard work.

"We've been telling folks since day one that INVINCIBLE kicks ass," says Larsen. "It turns out somebody was listening. We couldn't be more proud of Robert Kirkman. Seriously. Expect those back issue prices to go through the roof, kids."

For Kirkman's part, he's hoping the spotlight on the book will convince anyone who might not be reading INVINCIBLE to give it a shot.

"Readership on INVINCIBLE continues to grow month after month," notes the writer. "Hopefully with this announcement people who had been reluctant to give a new superhero book a try will now give INVINCIBLE the chance it deserves. In preparation for that we're trying to make it as easy as possible with a reasonably priced hardcover and the fifty-cent zero issue."

INVINCIBLE, which debuted in early 2003, focuses on the life of teenager Mark Grayson, the son of the world's greatest superhero, as he deals with the development of his own powers, and finds his life turned upside down in the process. INVINCIBLE was nominated (along with Kirkman's other continuing Image Comics series, THE WALKING DEAD) for a 2004 Eisner award for Best New Series.

INVINCIBLE: THE ULTIMATE COLLECTION VOL. 1 HARDCOVER will retail for $34.95. It will be solicited in the April issue of Diamond PREVIEWS, and will go on sale June 8. INVINCIBLE #0 (Diamond order coder: FEB05 1572) was solicited in the February issue of PREVIEWS, and will hit stands on April 13.

[LouFerignoDemon]

this is two years old, but still:

Anything come from it past that, or is it still in the "Kirkman's possibly writing a script" stage?

[Darthphere]

Spawn and witchblade sell because people like the "hot" art and haven't cared about how much the stories stink. You will virtually never hear anyone actually recommend them.

I've actually heard Spawn has gotten pretty good lately. Wouldn't know since I'll probably never buy a Spawn comic again in my life.

[fifthfiend]

I picked up an issue of Spawn a little bit ago and was like okay, Wanda has twins and they're actually God and Satan? Yeah, I'm ****in' done here.

But I guess there's a mindset that sort of thing might appeal to.

[Elijya]

From October:

Since its debut, INVINCIBLE has received widespread critical acclaim, winning praise from ENTERTAINMENT WEEKLY, WIZARD, COMICS BUYER'S GUIDE and a variety of comics websites. The series has also been optioned as a feature film by Paramount Pictures, with Kirkman himself tapped to write the screenplay.

"INVINCIBLE has really come into its own as one of the best superhero books on the stands," stated Image Comics Executive Director Eric Stephenson. "We're selling out every issue and sales are continuing to climb, and this deluxe, limited edition collection should make the perfect introduction for anyone looking to catch up on the series fast."

Noteworthy part highlighted:

From CBR:

Top 200 Trades for 2006
DC accounted for 92 of the top 200 trades for 2006 while Marvel had 52 on the list. VIZ came in fourth with 19 items of the list followed by Dark Horse with 11 items. Image came in fifth with 8 items on the list.

One of the more interesting things on the top 200 trades for 2006 was rank 39 – "Batman: Hush" Vol #2. What makes this item interesting is that this trade paperback never appeared on the monthly top 100 trades list. While clearly there are a lot of trades that "fly under the radar" of the monthly top 100 trades each month, this clearly illustrates just how well one of those items can do. This is but one of many such examples on the list of top 200 trades for 2006.

Another interesting tidbit about the top 200 trades of 2006 is the list of trades by Image Comics. Or, more accurately, the list of trades by Robert Kirkman. All eight trades by Image were Robert Kirkman properties. All five trades of "The Walking Dead" were on the list, as were volumes 1, 6 and 7 of "Invincible." And the first volume of "Invincible" was another one that made it on to the top 200 trades of the year without ever being on the top 100 trades for any month of the year.

Invincible vol 1 was first published in 2004, and yet it still makes it onto the top selling trades for 2006. That means that it has been consistently selling the entire time, as new people are steadily coming on board and checking it out. Most trades (like most movies, books, CDs, etc.) sell huge when they first come out, and then slowly the sales trickle to almost nothing. The Invicnible trade has sold slow and steady and two years after publication is still one of the top selling indy trades regularly.

[Eros]

Like I said, sometimes people like things for the characters or the art without caring for the story. That's the same reason Wolverine: Origins comics still sell over 70,000 copies even though it seems to be pretty much consensus that the book is bad. Quality does not always equal sales. How often are the Academy Award nominees for best picture also the top grossing films of the year? rarely

But even so, something about the comic must turn off pontential readers.

[Dread]

At #153 with 13k sales, it's not really overcoming the already-cancelled IRREDEEMABLE ANT-MAN or THE LONERS mini (both solid books, actually). But still, INVINCIBLE is one of those cases where sales and quality rarely go hand in hand; the content is incredible but the sales aren't, at least in the monthly market. The trades, HC's, and whatnot sell well, it has massive critical buzz and it's creator has some pull as a B-List level writer for Marvel now who created the Marvel Zombies franchise (off a plot point from Mark Millar). Image doesn't have as high expectations for sales as Marvel and DC because it CAN'T. It has 5% or less of the dollar/market share of the comic market. That's tiny. Dark Horse usually outdoes them by slight margins (thanks to Star Wars and Manga). For Image, any sales over 10k are solid and INVINCIBLE has held steady for a while. And again, you can't beat the solid buzz. Add in sales for the various trade packages and I am sure it does incredibly well.

SPAWN was one of Image's launch titles, so people still buy it for the same reason people still buy, oh, ASM or UXM or Ultimate X-Men or any one of the countless "Big Two" books that sell much better than they deserve. Namepower and history count.

INVINCIBLE's a great book though, so to me, the sales that count involve me finding the book every month to buy. ;)

[Anubis]

The fact that it's not Spider-Man. Or the X-Men. Most people go into the comic shops and don't even go near the indie/Image sections.

[Elijya]

Anything come from it past that, or is it still in the "Kirkman's possibly writing a script" stage?

not so far as I know. Just another comic property that gets optioned and never quite developes. I'm sure Kirky got a nice paycheck, though

[LouFerignoDemon]

not so far as I know. Just another comic property that gets optioned and never quite developes. I'm sure Kirky got a nice paycheck, though

At least he got that.

[Elijya]

But even so, something about the comic must turn off pontential readers.

The fact that it's not published by Marvel or DC, unfortunately. That's got nothing to do with Invincible itself, but the overall comics market. Amongst people with no bias whatsoever about what company publishes a book so long as it's good, it does great.

[Eros]

The fact that it's not published by Marvel or DC, unfortunately. That's got nothing to do with Invincible itself, but the overall comics market. Amongst people with no bias whatsoever about what company publishes a book so long as it's good, it does great.

IMO Kirkman should move his comic to darkhorse, and also get a cartoon series on TV, to increase popularity.

[Elijya]

Dark Horse and Image have almost identical sales, each accounts for 4-6% of the market, switching between 3rd and fourth place over the years. The primary differences between the two companies is Dark Horse does alot of comics based on existing properties, like Star Wars, Buffy, Aliens, etc., and publishes almost no superheros. Until recently, they've also done virtually no regular monthly titles. Image, meanwhile, is a safe heaven for artists and writers who want to do superheroes their own way without having to shoehorn them into the Marvel and DC Universe. Image also allows creators ownership of their own characters. And they've also treated Robert Kirkman very well. Switching publishers would be betraying them and would not increase sales at all, unless they relaunched with a new #1 one, which is a cheap stunt and doesn't require switching publiers, and sales would level off again anyway.

What has done the most to increase sales on Invincible so far has been excellent word of mouth, which has doubled the sales of the book from it's original premiere, and skyrocketed the TpB sales.

A cartoon series would be awesome, but it's also something of a pipe dream. The only successful superhero cartoon shows have been for LONG established and incredibly popular heroes, like Spider-Man, X-Men, Batman and Superman. The only Image comic to have had cartoons are the HBO adult Spawn cartoon, and the AWFUL Wildcats and Savage Dragon cartoons that lastest for one season. Both of these were in the heyday of Image in the mid/early 90s. Oh, and there was also the MTV Maxx cartoon. That was good, but they only bothered to produce a few episodes.

Believe me, myself, Robert Kirkman, and everyone who reads Invincible would LOVE to see an animated series, but it's just not that likely

[Elijya]

Just out of curiosity Eros, how often do you read non-Marvel/DC books?