Friday, May 4th, 2012
Star Wars day: May the 4th be with you.This is also the day that Joss Whedon's blockbuster "The Avengers" debuts in movie theaters. It will be a huge money maker and I will see it this weekend.
As a rule I am not a big comic book fan nor am I a big fan of comic book movies (ever see "The Fantastic Four?"). But then you see the Spiderman movies, Iron Man, or the Superman and Batman movies and you see that this medium can successfully crossover from one visual format to another- given enough money and talent.
I have been trying to figure out why comic books have been around for so long and I finally got it (sorry for taking so long). It took me a long time to understand the appeal of science fiction: it is contemporary socio-political commentary set into the future. I conclude that comic books are modern mythology.
If you are bored by the Edith Hamilton tomes on Greek and Roman mythology you turn to Marvel and DC. What are the gods but a group of individuals with often singular gifts that separate them from mere mortals but when united they can do wondrous things. Fast forward to contemporary times and you have the X-Men.
So, I apologize to my vastly superior comic book geek friends for getting here so late.
And, I appreciate those who refuse to refer to comic books as "Graphic Novels." That's right up there with tube steak for hot dog and pre-owned for used. Be bold, people and call it what it is.
