Author: billyd75

Showcase Presents: The Phantom Stranger vol. 2

Posted on by billyd75

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In this second volume of greatness, we get to see more of the same from legends like Len Wein, Dick Giordano, Jim Aparo, Arnold Drake, Neal Adams, and Nick Cardy. Appearances by Deadman, Batman & Robin, Cassandra Craft, Tala, Queen of Evil, Black Orchid, and so on. There are a couple of absolute gems in this trade, and the first couple being stories by Paul Levitz (script) in the latter part of this book. A mummy story that is absolutely insane, and then a couple of tales involving everybody’s favorite spirit, Deadman! Those issues have the Phantom Stranger, fighting for the soul of Boston Brand, and all sorts of craziness! The very last issue in the book has the special House of Secrets #150, starring the Phantom Stranger. In this fantastic issue, we see the Phantom Stranger, as he looks into the past, and witnesses a witches coven, a demon possessed man, and his master…a computer?

The other gems I spoke of earlier, are the back up stories “Spawn of Frankenstein”, by Marv Wolfman & Mike Kaluta. In these, you get a great story (derived from Mary Shelly’s works), and of course, great artwork. The last two I’ll speak of, is The Brave and the Bold #89 & 98. This story involving Batman & Robin is truly spooky, full of ghosts, and a must read! The second Brave & Bold (also by Haney & Aparo), shows Batman, as once again he must be aided by the power of the Phantom Stranger, as he’s plagued by demons and devils!

Instead of being repetitive, I’ll just tell you to get out and grab these trades if you’re a Marvel fan that wants to read something new, but don’t know where to start. These first two volumes are cheap, and give you a great look into the DC side of the magic and the macabre! See you next time!

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Showcase Presents: The Phantom Stranger vol. 1

Posted on by billyd75

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A new year is upon us, and it will bring my new blog! Comic books are a big part of my life, so, obviously, they’ll be a huge focus. Twice a week, I’ll post my thoughts on a certain story, book, graphic novel, etc. Once or twice a month, I’ll post my thoughts on a classic movie, and that will most certainly be of the  horror or sci-fi genre! Well, that’s it for now, so lets get started!

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I’ve decided to go with one of the more recent titles I picked up with Phantom Stranger vol. 1! Being a huge fan of Dr. Strange, and all things magic/supernatural, it was only fitting that this title gets the inaugural spot in my new blog. I can honestly make a case for this being one of the top ten titles of the 1970’s, and the talent on it backs me up. Names like John Broome, Carmine Infantino, Jim Aparo, Len Wein, Mike Friedrich, and Neal Adams (covers), are just a few of the creators that made this title an incredible book to read.

The first few stories are your typical ghost stories or cult activity tale, but eventually, more macabre stories followed. A great nemesis, in Tala, Queen of Evil, was an on again, off again villain, that often tempted him with her beauty. She popped in and out for quite a while, always using her powers to cause strife, and threatening innocents. Another cool thing about these issues are the stories involving Dr. Thirteen. The doctor is a parapsychologist that is usually seen trying to debunk  paranormal activity. In some cases, he works side by side with the Phantom Stranger, even though he doesn’t always believe what he sees.

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In one particular issue that stood out, the Phantom Stranger came face to face with an Ice Giant, atop of the world itself. Denny O’Neil, Jim Aparo, and Joe Orlando, brought this chilling tale of intrigue, and a monstrosity that towers over everyone! Once again, Tala is involved, and this adds even a crazier dimension to this awesome story. A tale of voodoo, by Mike Sekowsky, and Jim Aparo follows next, and the villain in this one was super creepy, complete with voodoo dolls, drums, and the whole get up!

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A duel with Tannarak, the sorcerer, the Army of Evil, a swamp creature, the Iron Messiah, a waxworks nightmare, ghosts, and the list goes on and on. When you have creators of this magnitude, honestly, it’s a can’t miss. Anyone out there that knows these names, understands how great a book like this is going to be, and if you’re looking for something being new to comics, give it a try. You wont regret it! See you next time!

 

 

 

Marvel Team-Up #52, 1976. “Danger: Demon on a Rampage”

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One of Marvel’s best titles on any list,  in the 70’s, has to be Marvel Team-Up! From one issue to the next, you’d get two heroes (Spider-Man, plus one), battling against all sorts of crazy villains, creatures, or just shenanigans of some sort. This was a great formula, and although it sounds like it would be tough to keep going at a great pace, it wasn’t thanks to creators like Gerry Conway (writer), Sal Buscema (pencils), Mike Esposito (inks), and Al Milgrom (cover)! Enjoy!

Marvel Fanfare #3, 1982. “Into the Land of Death”

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There are lots of names that pop into my head when I think of this title, but the first arc (4 issues), definitely stands out in my head. Why? Chris Claremont and Dave Cockrum, that’s why! Just look at this awesome cover, and the interior art is just as incredible. The story by Claremont is also one for the ages, but don’t take my word for it, get out there and either buy the single issues or the trade paperback! The X-Men, Spider-Man, Ka-Zar, and Sauron, all fighting it out in the Savage Land! Enjoy!

Marvel Two-In-One #22, 1976. “Touch Not The Hand of Seth”

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I love comic books with skeletons! Maybe it’s my passion for Ray Harryhausen movies? Anyway, this is not just a cool cover, it has a great story by Bill Mantlo, pencils by Ron Wilson, inks by Pablo Marcos, Don Warfield on colors, Karen Mantlo doing the letters, and Archie Goodwin editing! Thor and Thing must battle Seth, Egyptian god of the underworld! Enjoy!

Marvel Tales #225, 1989. “The Death of Captain Stacy”

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This fabulous reprint title ran for nearly three-hundred issues, and contained some of Spidey’s best stories! In this reprint of Amazing Spider-Man #90 (1970), we see the untimely demise of Captain Stacy, but also, that he knew Peter was Spider-Man for some time. Quite an emotional issue, and really put a strain on the relationship between Peter and Gwen for some time. The issue boasts a revamped cover by Todd McFarlane, interior pencils by Gil Kane, inks by “Jazzy” Johnny Romita, and story by Stan “The Man” Lee! Enjoy!

Thor #251, 1976. “To Hela and Back”

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OK, first things first. I have no idea who “Norman Davis” is, but he was nice enough to sign the front cover, inside cover, and the first page, in blue marker. Thank you, Norman. Alright, that is a downer, but for fifty cents, I couldn’t pass up this fantastic issue starring the Thunder god, Hela, and others. Story by Len Wein, art by “Big” John Buscema & Tony DeZuniga, and colors by Glynis Wein. Cover by Jack “King” Kirby, Joe Sinnott, and Dan Crespi! Enjoy!

Fantastic Four #157, 1975. “And Now…The Endgame Cometh”

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No, your eyes do not deceive you! That is one awesome FF cover, that is signed by the artist, Rich Buckler! I had the pleasure of meeting him for a few seconds ay NYCC 2013, and he was gracious enough to sign my oldest copy of this wonderful title! Written/edited by Roy Thomas, Pencils by Rich Buckler, inks by Joe Sinnott, Colors by Petra Goldberg, and letters by Joe Rosen! Enjoy!

Rom Spaceknight #1, 1979. “Arrival”

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The few issues I own of this title are enough to make me want to hunt down the rest, for sure. Not only that, but also hunt down any other offerings from Bill Mantlo. This guy is so underrated, it’s comical. Just dig into his works, and you’ll see exactly what I mean. Look at this awesome cover by Frank Miller and Josef Rubinstein! The interiors by Sal Buscema are quite impressive as well, so don’t think this is just a cool cover and fluff on the inside! Merry Christmas! Enjoy!

Marvel Team-Up #1, 1972. “Have Yourself a Sandman Little Christmas”

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Well, here we are on Christmas Eve! I must post a story that coincides with the impending holiday, right? So, here you go! A milestone issue from 1972, that showcases Spider-Man and his buddy, the Human Torch, as they battle the sinister Sandman! Written by Roy “the boy” Thomas, pencils by the late Ross Andru, inks by Mike Esposito, and letters by Artie Simek! As is that wasn’t enough of a crew, you also get a phenomenal cover by Gil Kane and Frank Giacoia! Enjoy!