Let Me Know How It Is

What defines a hero? Is it their power set? Is it their origin story? One can argue that the people that they surround themselves with play an important part. The panel takes a look at supporting casts and why they are so essential to fleshing out the world of a hero.

The advent of the trade paperback or graphic novel collection created a huge shift in the comic business. It was an easier way to attract new readers through these easily packaged collected editions rather than overwhelm them with the daunting numbering system of individual issues. But has the graphic novel collection affected the comic business in more ways than just sales? The panel examines the possible upsides and downsides to the graphic novel or trade paperback collection?

When a franchise reboots, it's often a polarizing subject among fans. Sometimes the reset button is pushed well before a franchise has explored every avenue and fully run its course. While other times, starting with a clean slate can be a way of injecting some much needed new energy into a franchise. Our panel discusses the subject of reboots and tries to uncover just how necessary a tool they are for creators.

The Secret Identity is a staple of superhero stories dating back to before the genre was even created. It's been a key component to some of the world's most beloved heroes. Superman, Spider-Man, Batman; but has the trope had its day? The panel discusses the role of the secret identity in this modern era of storytelling to see if there is still value to maintaining the charade of a mild-mannered alter ego.

Warner Bros. Animation has been producing DC Universe original animated movies since 2007. Since then, a whopping 36 films have been produced and counting! Some of these films are some of the best superhero stories ever put to film and the panel discusses the many successes that this series has to offer.

Gargoyles holds a special place in the hearts of many cartoon fans. Animation in the United States was in the midst of a radical evolution during the mid-90s that balanced kid-friendly stories with more sophisticated themes and emotionality. Gargoyles and the Disney Afternoon were integral parts of this growth in children's programming. A personal favorite of the panel, who enjoyed taking a look back at this groundbreaking animated series.

Every superhero needs a city to defend. Every sheriff needs a town where law must be upheld. Every monster needs a place to terrify. And every story needs a setting. In this episode, the panel discusses the pros and cons of setting your story in a real-life setting or a fictional one.

There is always excitement when ushering in a new year. Anticipation for what new things are in store for us in the coming year is never far from mind. It is in that spirit that the panel looks ahead and discusses what they eagerly await in 2020. Part 2 of our 2-Part Year-End, Giant-Size Annual.

New Years is always a time for reflection. This is no different for the panel, as they look back on the year and discuss what about 2019 impressed, surprised, and delighted them. Part 1 of a 2-part Year-End, Giant-Size Annual.

The holidays. The time when children rip through mounds of paper and scotch tape hoping that on the other side is that one special toy they’ve been wishing for all year. In the spirit of the season, the panel takes a trip down memory lane and hangs a left at Nostalgia Boulevard to discuss the toys that brought happiness and joy (and maybe sometimes a little pain) to their younger selves.

In the age of serialized storytelling, single comic issues that can stand on their own can be harder to come by. For our very first episode, Zack, Frank, Tommy, and Clifton list their favorite single issue comics from over the years. Listen to hear our thoughts on some classic issues as well as our love for some very deep cuts from the long box.