Pop Artifact! Big Jim Rescue Rig

New "Batman Begins" poster

How many posters are they gonna do for this thing?

Hurray for Sheldon Moldoff!

Comics historian Mark Evanier pays tribute to the great Golden Age artist, who turns 85 today!

Moldoff drew tons of "Batman" stories credited to Bob Kane. He also did the cover for the first issue of the Golden Age "Flash" title.

Here's a portrait of the 1950s-era Batman Family, credited to Bob Kane, but actually by Moldoff:

Talkin' Nancy Drew graphic novels

Stefan Petrucha, writer for the new "Nancy Drew" comics series from Papercutz (there's a "Hardy Boys" one, too) talks about the new, manga-influenced take on the venerable girl detective character.

"Look at Veronica Mars and Kim Possible -- their origins are clearly Nancy Drew. My goal was to keep up the Drew mystique in a fast-paced comic book format...You'll have all the drama, the suspense, locations and lots of visual moments."

The series is published both in regular comic format and in multi-issue manga-style collections.

There are two collected volumes out so far: "The Demon of River Heights," and "Writ in Stone."


Extras revealed for "Lois and Clark" DVD set

The show's first season is out is a six-disk set June 7.

Extras include:

  • The two-hour long pilot episode.
  • "From Rivals to Romance: The Making of Lois & Clark, a retrospective documentary featuring new interviews with Dean Cane and Teri Hatcher.
  • "Taking Flight: The Visual Effects of Lois & Clark," behind-the-scenes featurette.

Also, for a limited time, the set will include a bonus disc featuring the never-before-released "Smallville" episode “Crusade,” which introduces Lois Lane (Erika Durance) to that series.

Rock'n'roll architect Johnnie Johnson dies

Pianist on all those great sessions with Chuck Berry, Johnson passed away Wednesday at age 80.

More here.

Pop Artifact! Batman Hotline phone toy



Mike Sterling nerds out...

...over DC Direct getting Superman's chest emblem wrong on its upcoming "Crisis on Infinite Earths" action figure.

It's supposed to be the Earth 2 Superman, people! Earth 2! For crying out loud...

Bosworth as Lois Lane

Kate Bosworth Web has a bunch of "Superman" set pics featuring Bosworth as the girl reporter.

"Bewitched" season DVDs box art revealed

The "Bewitched" season one DVD set is now available for pre-order from Amazon. You can choose between the original black-and-white or colorized versions.

Here's a peek at the box art, via DVD Answers:

Pop Artifact! Giant Leeches movie poster

Upcoming DC Direct items

Here's a look at upcoming goodies:


THE BATMAN: BATMOBILE MAQUETTE
Sculpted by John G. Mathews.
The third in the series of The Batman Maquettes by DC Direct, inspired by the Kids' WB! and Cartoon Network show! The Batmobile is as fast and deadly as lightning, racing through the darkened, gritty streets of Gotham City. This limited edition, hand-painted, cold-cast porcelain maquette measures approximately 4" tall x 6.25" wide x 10" deep, includes a full-color Certificate of Authenticity and is packaged in a 4-color box.
$89.99, in stores on Nov. 2.


BATMAN CHRISTMAS HOLIDAY 2005 COLLECTOR'S PLATE
Art by Alex Ross.
This Holiday Collector's Plate features a stunning illustration of The Joker and his little helper, Harley Quinn, bringing joy and laughter to a very unhappily detained Batman! This limited-edition, hand-painted cold-cast porcelain Collector's Plate measures approximately 10.5" in diameter, features a Certificate of Authenticity imprinted on the back of the plate, and is edged with a 24-karat gold band. The plate is packaged in a gift box with gold foil stamping.
$59.99, in stores on Nov. 23.


BATMAN JAPANESE IMPORT COLLECTOR ACTION FIGURE WAVE 3: BATMAN
Manufactured by Japanese toy manufacturer Yamato exclusively for the Japanese toy market, these limited-edition Batman figures are available outside of Asia only under special arrangement with DC Direct! The Batman Import Collector Action Figure includes a stone dungeon-like diorama base measuring 8" high x 5.5" wide x 3.2" deep This figure is limited to 7,000 pieces.
Price TBA, in stores on July 7.

BATMAN JAPANESE IMPORT COLLECTOR ACTION FIGURE WAVE 3: BANE
The Bane Import Collector Action Figure comes with a demolition-inspired diorama base measuring 6.3" high x 5" wide x 3.7" deep. This figure is limited to 7,000 pieces.
Price TBA, in stores on July 7.

BATMAN JAPANESE IMPORT COLLECTOR ACTION FIGURE WAVE 3: BATGIRL
The Batgirl Import Collector Action Figure includes a building cornice diorama base measuring 6.8" high x 4.3" wide x 3" deep. This figure is limited to 7,000 pieces.
Price TBA, in stores on July 7.

BATMAN JAPANESE IMPORT COLLECTOR ACTION FIGURE WAVE 3: CATWOMAN
The Catwoman Import Collector Action Figure comes with a whip, a Gotham City nightscape and a diorama base measuring 7.5" high x 4.3" wide x 3" deep. This figure is limited to 7,000 pieces.
Price TBA, in stores on July 7.


CRISIS ON INFINITE EARTHS SERIES 2: ANTI-MONITOR ACTION FIGURE
Countless champions perish in order to prevent the Anti-Monitor from gaining fuel through the destruction of individual realities! The Anti-Monitor Action Figure features multiple points of articulation and comes with a base. Packaged in a 4-color blister.
Price TBA, in stores on Nov. 16.

CRISIS ON INFINITE EARTHS SERIES 2: BARRY ALLEN FLASH ACTION FIGURE
Barry Allen, the protector of Central City, has the power to violate select laws of physics and super speed ability! The Barry Allen Flash Action Figure features multiple points of articulation and comes with a display base. Packaged in a 4-color blister.
Price TBA, in stores on Nov. 16.

CRISIS ON INFINITE EARTHS SERIES 2: EARTH 2 SUPERMAN ACTION FIGURE
The first super-hero to arrive on Earth-2 and help defeat the Anti-Monitor! The Earth 2 Superman Action Figure features multiple points of articulation and comes with a display base. Packaged in a 4-color blister.
Price TBA, in stores on Nov. 16.

CRISIS ON INFINITE EARTHS SERIES 2: BATTLE-ARMOR LEX LUTHOR ACTION FIGURE
A genius, criminal scientist, Lex builds a suit of battle armor, incorporating the most deadly weapons, in order to bring down The Man of Steel. This figure features multiple points of articulation and comes with a flag accessory and display base. Packaged in a 4-color blister.
Price TBA, in stores on Nov. 16.

CRISIS ON INFINITE EARTHS SERIES 2: ROBOT BRAINIAC ACTION FIGURE
One of Earth's villains evolved into a techno-organic entity housed within a giant skull-shaped vessel. This figure features multiple points of articulation and comes with a display base. Packaged in a 4-color blister.
Price TBA, in stores on Nov. 16.


KINGDOM COME: SPECTRE, GREEN LANTERN AND NORMAN MCCAY STATUE
Designed by Alex Ross, sculpted by Tony Cipriano.
The second multicharacter statue direct from the pages of the best-selling miniseries Kingdom Come! This statue features Ross's striking visions of the Spectre, Green Lantern and the minister Norman McCay. This limited-edition, hand-painted cold-cast porcelain statue measures approximately 5.75" tall x 5.5" wide x 3" deep, includes a full-color Certificate of Authenticity and is packaged in a 4-color box. Limited up to 1,500 pieces.
$89.99, in stores on Nov. 30.


SUPERMAN AND BATMAN DELUXE BOOKENDS
Designed by Ed McGuinness. sculpted by James Shoop.
In this stunning new set of bookends designed by fan-favorite artist Ed McGuinness, the Man of Steel and the Dark Knight join forces to destroy their longtime enemies Bizarro and Man-Bat! This dramatic limited-edition, cold-cast porcelain bookends set includes a full-color Certificate of Authenticity. Each side measures approximately 8.25" tall x 6.5" wide x 6.5" deep, and they are packaged together in a 4-color box.
$295, in stores on Nov. 9.


SUPERMAN 13" DELUXE COLLECTOR FIGURE
The Superman 13" Deluxe Collector Figure is an exciting new addition to DC Direct's line of realistically proportioned, super-heroic 1/6-scale figures! Wearing his iconic costume, this figure is fully poseable with 28 points of articulation. Superman comes with two sets of removable hands -- one set has independently articulated fingers and the other closed fists -- along with a 7.5" bendable "steel" girder and breakaway "chains." The figure also includes Clark Kent's lined suit, white long-sleeve shirt, fabric tie and socks. The transformation from superhero to reporter is complete with plastic eyeglasses, and a copy of the Daily Planet newspaper. This figure is packaged in a four-color displayable collector box.
$89.99, in stores on Nov. 2.


SUPERMAN: STRENGTH POSTER
Art by Alex Ross.
Originally published as the cover of Superman: Strength #3, Alex Ross paints a striking iconic rendition of the Man of Steel! This full-color poster measures 24" x 36".
$7.99, in stores on Nov.30.


WONDER WOMAN IDENTITY CRISIS POSTER
Art by Michael Turner.
Originally published as the cover of Identity Crisis #4, this poster features Wonder Woman as an elegant symbol of strength. This beautifully illustrated 4-color poster measures 24" x 36".
$7.99, in stores on Nov.30.

Sideshow debuts Xander figure

The latest addition to Sideshow Toys' line of "Buffy the Vampire Slayer" figures is this one of Scoobyite Xander Harris. Limited to 750 copies it's available for pre-order now.

DC Comics July 2005 Solicitations

They're here!


ALL STAR BATMAN AND ROBIN, THE BOY WONDER #1 Written by Frank Miller, art and cover by Jim Lee and Scott Williams.
The all-new saga of Batman and Robin begins here! The people responsible for some of comicdom's greatest tales, Frank Miller and Jim Lee team up for the first time to bring you Batman and Robin like you've never seen them before in this imaginative reinvention of these classic characters that will have your eyes popping and your head spinning!
All hell breaks loose at the circus as millionaire Bruce Wayne and gal pal Vicki Vale witness a young boy's life shattered before their eyes. Orphaned, Dick Grayson has nowhere to go and no one to turn to -- no one but Bruce Wayne and the shadow of the bat!
Expect action, adventure, guest-stars and the unexpected as Miller and Lee deliver the ultimate tales of the Dynamic Duo. This issue will ship with two covers by Lee and Williams, featuring Batman (50 percent) and Robin (50 percent).
32 pages, $2.99, in stores on July 13.

ABSOLUTE BATMAN: HUSH OVERSIZED HC
Written by Jeph Loeb, art and cover by Jim Lee and Scott Williams.
The complete 12-part saga written by Jeph Loeb with art by fan-favorites Jim Lee and Scott Williamscollected together for the first time in the oversized Absolute format! This slipcased edition includes Batman #608-619 as well as the two-page origin of Batman (originally seen only on dccomics.com) and the special story from Wizard: The Comics Magazine. The year-long "Hush" -- an epic tale of friendship, trust, and betrayal that spans a lifetime -- reinvigorated the Dark Knight, pitting him against the deadliest members of his Rogue's Gallery and introducing his newest foe!
This Absolute edition includes an all-new cover by Lee and Williams, a Jim Lee Sketchbook, and issue-by-issue commentary by the creative team.
372 pages, $49.99, in stores on Sept. 7.

BATMAN #642
Written by Andersen Gabrych, art by Chris Marrinan and Andrew Pepoy, cover by Jock.
The Mad Hatter's implant is driving Killer CrocŠwell, mad! Can Batman save the reptilian rogue before he shreds himself into an early grave? And can the Dark Knight save the Hatter from bloody, bestial retribution?
32 pages, $2.25, in stores on July 13.


BATMAN: DARK DETECTIVE #5 and 6
Written by Steve Englehart, art and cover by Marshall Rogers and Terry Austin.
The classic Batman creative team of Steve Englehart, Marshall Rogers and Terry Austin concludes the exciting 6-issue miniseries! In issue #5, Silver St. Cloud has been abducted by the Joker so that her boyfriend, Evan Gregory, will drop out of the Gotham gubernatorial race. Little does the Joker know that Silver and Gregory have separated -- and her new beau is the Batman!
And in the thrilling issue #6, Batman has traced the Joker to a decaying mansion that serves as the shelter for a special hostage: Silver St. Cloud! Unfortunately for the Dark Knight, the mansion is also a funhouse loaded with death traps! Can he rescue Silver and prevent the Joker from winning the election?
32 pages, $2.99 in stores on July 7 and July 27.

DETECTIVE COMICS #808
Written by David Lapham and Andersen Gabrych, art by Ramon Bachs, Nathan Massengill, Tommy Castillo and Rodney Ramos, cover by Lapham.
Part 8 of the 12-part "City of Crime!" Paranoia and distrust. Certain death. That's what Batman and Robin face in a Gotham that bears little resemblance to the one they protect! Plus, Part 1 of "The Beast Beneath" by Gabrych, Castillo and Ramos.
40 pages, $2.99, in stores on July 20.


BATGIRL #66
Written by Andersen Gabrych, art by Andy Kuhn, cover by Amanda Conner.
In search of her mother's identity, Cassandra hits the open road! But a quick rest stop leads to a furious, super-powered throwdown, as Batgirl comes face-to-face with the leather-clad Verraco -- the Road Hog!
32 pages, $2.50, in stores on July 20.

BATMAN: GOTHAM KNIGHTS #67
Written by A.J. Lieberman, art by Rick Burchett and Alvaro Lopez, cover by Cliff Chiang.
Batman's battle with Hush for the life of Poison Ivy may be over, but a surprising ramification to Bruce Wayne's life may publicly compromise his secret identity! You must witness the shock ending to believe it!
32 pages, $2.50, in stores on July 20.

BATMAN: JEKYLL AND HYDE #4
Written by Paul Jenkins, art and cover by Sean Phillips.
It's the other side of the coin, as artist Sean Phillips takes over the intriguing 6-issue miniseries! After being beaten and left for dead, Batman pieces together Two-Face's mad plan to poison the inhabitants of Gotham City and liberate their "Mr. Hyde" personalities once and for all! But can Batman save Gotham when he's one of the infected?
32 pages, $2.99, in stores on July 20.

CATWOMAN #45
Written by Will Pfeifer, art by Pete Woods, cover by Adam Hughes.
The explosive new creative team of writer Will Pfeifer, artist Pete Woods and cover artist Adam Hughes continues to turn Selina Kyle's world upside-down! Catwoman's unleashed something deadly into the environment -- something so horrible that S.T.A.R. Labs was keeping it under heavy guard. But Catwoman was expecting anthrax, not one of her deadliest foes! Plus, catch a first glimpse of Selina's snazzy new apartment.
32 pages, $2.50, in stores on July 27.

BATMAN: LEGENDS OF THE DARK KNIGHT #193
Written by J.H. Williams III and Dan Curtis Johnson, art and cover by Seth Fisher.
Part 2 of the 5-part "Snow," by Dan Curtis Johnson and Seth Fisher! Even Batman can't be everywhere, so he's recruited a strikeforce of experts with their own disciplines. But will their expertise be enough against the obsessed Mr. Freeze?
32 pages, $2.50, in stores on July 7.

NIGHTWING #110
Written by Devin Grayson, art and cover by Phil Hester and Ande Parks.
Dick Grayson hasn't been in Blüdhaven since everything in his life fell apart. Now, he must return to ensure the city's inner evil hasn't taken over. But now that Blüdhaven is Robin's stomping grounds, the Boy Wonder isn't sure he can trust anyone -- including Nightwing!
32 pages, $2.25, in stores on July 13.

GOTHAM CENTRAL #32
Written by Greg Rucka and Ed Brubaker, art by Kano and Stefano Gaudiano, cover by Sean Phillips.
Introducing new series penciller Kano. Ed Brubaker and Greg Rucka reunite to tell a tale so big it brings all the detectives of Central together. A body turns up in Gotham belonging toŠRobin? That means one thing: Batman's going to get involved.
32 pages, $2.50, in stores on June 8.

ROBIN #140
Written by Bill Willingham, art and cover by Scott McDaniel and Andy Owens.
Tim Drake's shadowy benefactor, The Veteran, invites Tim to join his government-sponsored Black Ops team. Will Robin leave Batman's side to join a very different -- and very legal -- crew? The answer may surprise you! Meanwhile, a face from Robin's past continues to hunt him down...
32 pages, $2.25, in stores on July 20.

NIGHTWING: YEAR ONE TP
Written by Chuck Dixon and Scott Beatty, art and cover by Scott McDaniel and Andy Owens.
Collecting the sold-out 6-part origin story presented in Nightwing #101-106! Learn the legendary history of Dick Grayson and his life after Batman fired him, as he gains advice from Superman, aids Deadman, and makes the decisions that lead him to become a new crimefighter!. 144 pages, $14.99, in stores on July 27.


YEAR ONE: BATMAN/RA'S AL GHUL #2
Written by Devin Grayson, art by Paul Gulacy and Jimmy Palmiotti, cover by Gulacy.
Writer Devin Grayson and artists Paul Gulacy and Jimmy Palmiotti conclude the 2-part Prestige Format miniseries delving into the legacy of one of Batman¹s greatest foes! Ra's al Ghul may be dead, but he has set something in motion that from people from dying, and what started in Gotham City is spreading across the globe. Batman must figure out how to undo what the death of Ra's has started, even when the clues start pointing to a plan to return him to life.
48 pages, $5.99, in stores on July 27.

SUPERMAN TITLES

SUPERMAN #219
Written by Mark Verheiden, art and cover by Ed Benes.
Part 1 of the 4-part "Sacrifice," arcing through all the Superman books and Wonder Woman #219 and featuring the return of Superman¹s deadliest enemies! Brainiac knows all of the Man of Steel's secrets, and he's putting that knowledge to use in a lethal fashion. Is Superman about to lose another piece of his humanity?
32 pages, $2.50, in stores on July 7.

ACTION COMICS #829
Written by Gail Simone, art by John Byrne and Nelson, cover by Byrne.
In Part 2 of the 4-part "Sacrifice," Superman battles Darkseid in a fight for his life! And the Man of Steel is even pitted against his allies in the JLA as he struggles to defeat his foe and keep his loved ones safe! But is an even deadlier villain behind it all?
32 pages, $2.50, in stores on July 13.

ADVENTURES OF SUPERMAN #642
Written by Greg Rucka, art and cover by Karl Kerschl.
Part 3 of the 4-part "Sacrifice," arcing through all the July-shipping Superman titles and wonder woman #219. As Darkseid and Granny Goodness amp up the danger to all those around Superman, will he have to take matters into his own hands by becoming judge, jury and executioner?
32 pages, $2.50, in stores on July 20.


WONDER WOMAN #219
Written by Greg Rucka, art by Rags Morales and Michael Bair, cover by J.G. Jones.
The 4-part "Sacrifice" leaps from the Superman titles to its stunning conclusion in Wonder Woman, as the Man of Steel turns his attention toward an unexpected enemy! But with Wonder Woman deadset against Superman's plan to even the score, the two heroes collide in an event that will send shock waves throughout the DCU.
32 pages, $2.25, in stores on July 27.

SUPERMAN: FOR TOMORROW VOL. 2 HC
Written by Brian Azzarello, art and cover by Jim Lee and Scott Williams.
A gorgeously illustrated hardcover volume collecting the conclusion of the storyline by Brian Azzarello and artists Jim Lee and Scott Williams from Superman #210-215.
Superman faces the mystery of how millions of people seemingly vanished without a trace ‹ including the love of his life, Lois Lane ‹ only to find that he may be partially responsible. But the solution to getting them back might prove too extreme, initiating a royal rumble with Wonder Woman. And after a battle with the deadly Equus, Superman comes face-to-face with the mysterious villain who has been responsible for turning his life upside-down!
This volume also features an afterword and new cover by Jim Lee.
176 pages, $24.99, in stores on Aug. 10.

LEX LUTHOR: MAN OF STEEL #5
Written by Brian Azzarello, art and cover by Lee Bermejo.
The startling conclusion of the 5-part miniseries! With all the pieces in place, Luthor sets his plan in motion to rid the Earth of the alien menace known as Superman. But what role does a loser like the Toyman play in the grand scheme of things? And if his plan fails, can Luthor rely on the one thing that's kept him going: hope?
32 pages, $2.99, in stores on July 27.

DC UNIVERSE TITLES

AQUAMAN #32
Written by John Arcudi, art and cover by Patrick Gleason and Christian Alamy.
Black Manta is back! Aquaman's deadliest enemy returns with all the power, resources and legal protection of a mutinational corporation behind him! Plus, Aquagirl leads a group of Sub Diegoans to Atlantis -- but they may wish they'd never come.
32 pages, $2.50, in stores on July 7.

BIRDS OF PREY #84
Written by Gail Simone, art by Joe Bennett and Jack Jadson, cover by Adriana Melo and Kevin Conrad.
The mission to Singapore blows up as a Bird's health breaks down! Back home, the Huntress becomes the hunted as she and her new allies find themselves in the crosshairs.
32 pages, $2.50, in stores on July 20.


BLOOD OF THE DEMON #5
Written by John Byrne and Will Pfeifer, art by Byrne and Nekros, cover by Byrne
Superman, Batman and Wonder Woman attempt to track down Jason Blood, who is dedicated to ensuring that Etrigan can never be freed again!
32 pages, $2.50, in stores on July 7.

BREACH #7
Written by Bob Harras, art by Marcos Martin and Alvaro Lopez, cover by Martin.
It's the fallout from the Rifter incursion into New York State, and things aren't looking good for Breach! To make things worse, he has to save one of the people he can trust the least!
32 pages, $2.50, in stores on July 13.

DAY OF VENGEANCE #4
Written by Bill Willingham, art by Justiniano and Walden Wong, cover by Walter Simonson.
The 6-issue miniseries spinning from Countdown to Infinite Crisis is rocked by the awesome might of some of the DCU's most powerful beings! If the combined power of Shazam and the Shadowpact isn't enough to take down the Spectre, what will be? Does Detective Chimp have the answer?
32 pages, $2.50, in stores on July 20.

DC SPECIAL: THE RETURN OF DONNA TROY #2
Written by Phil Jimenez, art by José Luis García-López and George Pérez, cover by Jimenez and Pérez.
The 4-part mini-series continues. A cosmic commute to an otherworldly battleground brings the Teen Titans and the Outsiders face-to-face with their long-mourned friend Donna Troy. There's just one problem: She's not the Donna they remember!
32 pages, $2.99, in stores on July 7.

DOOM PATROL #14
Written by John Byrne, art by Byrne and Terry Austin, cover by Byrne.
Reuniting the classic art team of Byrne and Austin! Robotman's attempts to alter his past have backfired, sending him through alternate realities where he encounters various Doom Patrols, a younger version of the JLA, and the evil Monsieur. Mallah and the Brain! Can Elasti-Girl save him?
32 pages, $2.50, in stores on July 27.

FIRESTORM #15
Written by Stuart Moore, art by Jamal Igle and Rob Stull, cover by Matt Haley.
"Secret Origins," Part 1 of 2! Firestorm's settling into his new life and job at S.T.A.R. Labs Detroit when a new villain crashes into town seeking revenge: The Pionic Man! What strange link does this new menace have to Firestorm, and can our hero defeat a man made of the primal forces of the universe?
32 pages, $2.50, in stores on July 7.

GREEN ARROW #52
Written by Judd Winick, art by Tom Fowler and Rodney Ramos, cover by James Jean.
Part 1 of the 4-part "Heading into the Light," spinning out of the events of Identity Crisis! Green Arrow faces off against an old villain who's suddenly become much more deadly. His name is Doctor Light, and he wants revenge on the heroes who violated his mind! Guest-starring Black Lightning and the JLA.
32 pages, $2.50, in stores on July 13.

THE FLASH #224
Written by Geoff Johns, art and cover by Howard Porter and Livesay.
Do not miss the unbelievable penultimate chapter of the 6-part "Rogue War," guest-starring Jay Garrick and Kid Flash! The Flash is torn through time as the War takes an unexpected twist, and Wally relives his life through Zoom's twisted eyes. Plus, the Rogues are approached by a new ally.
32 pages, $2.25, in stores on July 27.

THE FLASH: THE SECRET OF BARRY ALLEN TP
Written by Geoff Johns, art by Howard Porter and Livesay, cover by Michael Turner.
A thrilling new volume collecting The Flash #207-211 and #213-217! The Flash teams with Nightwing to face Gorilla Grodd! And a dark decision from Barry Allen's past is revealed, leading Wally to make some difficult choices of his own.
240 pages, $19.99, in stores on July 20.

GREEN LANTERN #3
Written by Geoff Johns, art and cover by Carlos Pacheco and Jesus Merino .
The unbelievable conclusion of the 3-part "No Fear." There's a new Manhunter in town, claiming sector 2814 is under his jurisdiction. But when Green Lantern discovers the true nature of the android's mission, it's up to Hal Jordan to shut it down! Plus, Black Hand is back in action -- and he's out for revenge.
32 pages, $2.99, in stores on July 27.

HAWKMAN #42
Written by Justin Gray and Jimmy Palmiotti, art and cover by Joe Bennett and Ruy Jose.
In the wake of Hawkman's murder, St. Roch is overrun by crime -- and Hawkgirl is unaware of how close she is to death at the hands of the newly resurrected Pilgrim! Plus, Golden Eagle makes a fateful decision about his future.
32 pages, $2.50, in stores on July 13.

THE HUMAN RACE #5
Written by Ben Raab, art by Justiniano and Walden Wong, cover by Justiniano.
Ulysses has an old girlfriend, and Nymph doesn't like her one bitŠwith good reason! Meanwhile, Paracelsus has more to throw at Delta Chi Delta.
32 pages, $2.99, in stores on July 20.

JLA #116
Written by Geoff Johns and Allan Heinberg, art by Chris Batista and Mark Farmer, cover by Rags Morales and Farmer.
Part 2 of the 5-part "Crisis of Conscience." Armed with the memories of what once was, the Secret Society of Super-Villains is back and out for blood -- literally -- as they battle the JLA with the blackest of magic. The confrontation rocks the JLA to their very core, turning friends into foes and further splintering the once-great team!.
32 pages, $2.25, in stores on July 13.

JLA CLASSIFIED #10
Written by Warren Ellis, art by Butch Guice, cover by Michael Stribling
Kicking off the 6-part "New Maps of Hell." In Metropolis, Lois Lane and Clark Kent investigate a rash of suicides at LexCorp, while Batman tracks an assassin with a deadly weapon in Gotham City. And on Themyscira, Wonder Woman is playing host to newly arrived academics, when a massive explosion hits,destroying the tranquility of Paradise Island. These three seemingly unrelated events tie together in ways that must be seen to be believed.
32 pages, $2.99, in stores on July 27.

JLA/CYBERFORCE
Written by Joe Kelly, art by Doug Mahnke and Norm Rapmund, cover by Marc Silvestri.
An unprecedented special bringing together two of the most powerful teams in comics. When Cyber-Zombies invade Budapest, the JLA and Cyberforce teams arrive to answer the call for help. Now these two very different teams must work together toward a common goal: preventing the now-evil Ripclaw and his Cyber-Zombies from obtaining Godtech -- an organic material that could make the Cyberforce immortal or even give life to the dead! But what happens when a member of the JLA falls in battle? Which group will get to the Godtech first -- and will they use its unearthly powers for the ultimate goodŠor the ultimate evil? Co-published with Top Cow.
48 pages, $5.99, in stores on July 7.

JSA #75
Written by Geoff Johns, art by Leonard Kirk and Keith Champagne, cover by Alex Ross.
The unbelievable, extra-sized conclusion of the 3-part "Black Vengeance," tying into Day of Vengeance and acting as a follow-up to last year's "Black Reign!" The Spectre's true target is revealed as he faces off against the power of the Thunderbolt and the might of the JSA. But vengeance will be had, and it may tear apart the JSA! Plus, Black Adam reaffirms his ties to a different Society.
40 pages, $2.99, in stores on July 7.


JSA CLASSIFIED #1
Written by Geoff Johns, art by Amanda Conner and Jimmy Palmiotti, covers by Conner and Palmiotti and Adam Hughes.
Spinning from the events of July's JSA #75, a highly anticipated new JSA series debuts with a story that spotlights everyone's favorite female juggernaut: Power Girl. Readers have long wondered about Power Girl's origins. Is she a wizard's lost granddaughter? A refugee from the future? An orphan of Krypton? Now learn the unexpected answers in an adventure that acts as a prelude to this fall's massive crossover event that will affect the JSA for years to come. This issue will ship with two covers by Amanda Conner and Jimmy Palmiotti (50 percent) and Adam Hughes (50 percent).
32 pages, $2.50, in stores on July 20.

KINETIC TP
Written by Kelley Puckett, art by Warren Pleece, cover by Tomer Hanuka.
Collecting the complete 8-issue DC Focus series. Sickly high-school student Tom Morrell's only escape is the exploits of comic-book hero Kinetic. But Tom's got powers of his own that will change his life -- assuming they manifest before Tom decides his life isn't worth living
192 pages, $9.99, in stores on July 27.

MANHUNTER #12
Written by Marc Andreyko, art by Javier Pina and Fernando Blanco, cover by Jesus Saiz.
With the help of a guest who cuts to the chase, Manhunter learns far more about the legacy of her name than it's safe to know.
32 pages, $2.50, in stores on July 20.

LEGION OF SUPER-HEROES #8
Written by Mark Waid, art by Barry Kitson and Art Thibert, cover by Kitson.
The war that will transform the galaxy begins -- inside Legion headquarters! When one Legionnaire quits the team, it strips away the last bit of civility between Cosmic Boy and Brainiac 5, violently splitting the team in two!
40 pages, $2.99, in stores on July 27.

THE OMAC PROJECT #4
Written by Greg Rucka, art by Jesus Saiz, cover by Ladrönn.
The events of "Sacrifice," rocking July's Wonder Woman #219 and all three Superman titles, force an endgame in The OMAC Project, one of four mini-series spinning out of Countdown to Infinite Crisis. Checkmate turns against itself as titans clash in the heavens -- and Brother Eye breaks free.
32 pages, $2.50, in stores on July 27.

OUTSIDERS #26
Written by Peter Tomasi, art by Will Conrad and Sean Parsons, cover by Kevin Nowlan.
Guest writer Peter Tomasi joins artists Will Conrad and Sean Parsons for Part 1 of the 2-part "Tick Tock" that reunites Batman with Black Lightning, Katana and Metamorpho! Old and new members team up as Arsenal helps one of the original Outsiders atone for a mistake made long ago.
32 pages, $2.50 in stores on July 27.

THE RANN/THANAGAR WAR #3
Written by Dave Gibbons, art and cover by Ivan Reis and Marc Campos.
The War escalates in this miniseries springing out of Countdown to Infinite Crisis! As the universe continues to feel the deadly effects of the war between worlds, the battle takes a decidedly personal turn that may turn hero against hero. Plus, an ancient evil begins to take advantage of a universe torn asunder.
32 pages, $2.50, in stores on July 13.

PLASTIC MAN #17
Written by Kyle Baker, art and cover by Baker.
Part 3 of a 2-part story! No, really -- we just had to stretch the story! Edwina's super-powered new boyfriend proves to be both a threat and a menace. Sounds like a keeper.
32 pages, $2.99, in stores on July 20,

SPACE GHOST TP
Written by Joe Kelly, art by Ariel Olivetti, cover by Alex Ross.
Collecting the sold-out Space Ghost 6-issue miniseries! For the first time, learn how Space Ghost got his power bands and why he protects the galaxy from evil! Witness the tragic circumstances that led to his donning a cowl and his first battle with archnemesis Zorak.
144 pages, $14.99, in stores on July 7.

SON OF VULCAN #2
Written by Scott Beatty, art and cover by Keron Grant .
Kid sidekick Mikey Devante hasn't even begun his training as apprentice to the fire-wielding hero known as Vulcan, but he's already found his way to the Forge -- Vulcan's high-tech headquarters -- and helped himself to a collection of Vulcan's state-of-the-art weaponry. He's even survived an awkward introduction to Vulcan's mysterious and deadly Girl Friday named Pandora! Now, if Mikey could just remember how to turn off the Forge's lethal security system...
32 pages, $2.99, in stores on July 7.

SGT. ROCK ARCHIVES VOL. 3 HC
Written by Robert Kanigher, art by Joe Kubert, Russ Heath and Jerry Grandenetti, cover by Kubert.
An intense portrait of combat and conflict, this volume collects Our Army At War #111-125, featuring the World War II adventures of Sgt. Rock and his colorful band of fighting soldiers originally published in the early 1960s. Featuring an introduction by DCU editor Mark Chiarello. 228 pages, $49.99, in stores on July 27.

SEVEN SOLDIERS: GUARDIAN #3
Written by Grant Morrison, art and cover by Cameron Stewart.
Century Hollow -- a secret project in the American heartland -- is an artificial town created and maintained as a very unusual experiment. A bizarre terrorist group seizes control of the project, and only The Guardian has any chance of saving the people of Century Hollow. The only question is: Should he?
32 pages, $2.99, in stores on July 13.


SEVEN SOLDIERS: ZATANNA #3
Written by Grant Morrison, art by Ryan Sook and Mick Gray, cover by Sook.
Zatanna and Misty travel with Ali Ka-Zoom to join forces with the Undying Don Vincenzo and face three Days of the Dead. The Sheeda Hordes have begun to reveal themselves prior to conquering the Earth, and Zatanna's caught in the middle of a siege which could decide the fate of humanity! And there's a terrible shock for Misty when the spider cavalry arrives.
32 pages, $2.99, in stores on July 27.

TEEN TITANS #26
Written by Geoff Johns, art and cover by Tony Daniel and Marlo Alquiza.
Tony Daniel joins the Titans for a special issue dealing with the aftermath of the recent crossover with Outsiders. Feeling empty after recent events, Superboy goes on a soul-searching journey into his past and possible futures with an unlikely guide: Raven.
32 pages, $2.50, in stores on July 20.

VILLAINS UNITED #3
Written by Gail Simone, art by Val Semeiks and Wade von Grawbadger, cover by J.G. Jones.
Things get ugly as the miniseries springing from Countdown to Infinite Crisis continues. In the most intense issue yet, the rogue villain group known as The Six engage in a brutal, life-altering confrontation with The Society, and a possible traitor stands revealed.
32 pages, $2.50, in stores on July 7.


THE WORLD'S GREATEST SUPER-HEROES
Written by Paul Dini and Alex Ross; Art and cover by Ross
You can't afford to miss this massive slipcased hardcover you've been waiting for, featuring the stunning art of the Eisner Award-winning team of the incomparable Alex Ross & writer Paul Dini! Between 1998 and 2003, Paul Dini, the Emmy Award-winning producer of Batman Beyond and The New Batman/Superman Adventures, joined forces with superstar illustrator Alex Ross to create six oversized tabloid editions of stories featuring the World's Greatest Super-Heroes: SUPERMAN: PEACE ON EARTH, BATMAN: WAR ON CRIME, SHAZAM!: POWER OF HOPE, WONDER WOMAN: SPIRIT OF TRUTH, JLA: SECRET ORIGINS, and JLA: LIBERTY And JUSTICE. These classic works for all ages feature the iconic DC characters in a unique storytelling format that combines aspects of both comics and picture books. Also included are several pages of promotional art, preliminary art and thumbnails, art done for DC Direct product, model-to-finished-painting comparisons, reflections by the book's creators, and much more!
This landmark volume also features an introduction by noted book designer and author Chip Kidd, a new painted cover by Alex Ross, and an 8-page foldout of the JLA: LIBERTY And JUSTICE poster featuring every member of the JLA by Ross. DC Universe.
396pg., Color Oversized Slipcased Hardcover, $49.99
On Sale July 6.

JOHNNY DC TITLES

THE BATMAN STRIKES! #11
Written by Bill Matheny, art by Christopher Jones and Terry Beatty, cover by Jeff Matsuda.
Reflecting the hit cartoon on the Kids' WB! The Penguin's got Batman on the ropes, and the Dark Knight's last hope is...Alfred? The keeper of the Batcave may be the only hope Batman has, but even this newer, stranger dynamic duo may not be able to save Gotham City.
32 pages, $2.25, in stores on July 13.

JUSTICE LEAGUE UNLIMITED #11
Written by Adam Beechen, art by Carlo Barberi and Walden Wong, cover by Ben Caldwell.
The Justice League pays a visit to Aquaman in Atlantis, but their trip is interrupted as a seaquake awakens an ancient evil! And the League's only hope comes from a most unexpected team member: Stargirl.
32 pages, $2.25, in stores on July 7.

TEEN TITANS GO! #21
Written by J. Torres, art by Todd Nauck and Lary Stucker, cover by Sean Galloway.
Professor Chang blasts Beast Boy with his new G.A.R.T.H. Gun and transforms him into...Garthzilla! When the giant green monster starts trashing the city, the Titans have no choice but to bust out their secret weapon...the Titans Go-Bot 5.
32 pages, $2.25, in stores on July 27.

TEEN TITANS GO! VOL. 3: BRING IT ON! TP
Written by J. Torres, art by Todd Nauck and Lary Stucker, cover by Dave Bullock.
Those super-powered teenaged stars of the Cartoon Network are back in a third volume packed with the amazing adventures of Robin, Beast Boy, Raven, Cyborg and Starfire collected from Teen Titans Go! #11-15.
104 pages, $6.99, in stores on July 20.

CARTOON NETWORK BLOCK PARTY VOL. 1: GET DOWN!
Written by Robbie Busch, Sholly Fisch, Dean Haspiel and others, art by Kim Arndt, Jeff Albrecht and others, cover by Gary Fields.
It's time to get funky with the stars of Cartoon Network, collected in a new manga-sized collection reprinting stories from Cartoon Cartoons and Dexter's Laboratory! Featuring the adventures of Dexter, the Kids Next Door, Johnny Bravo and more.
112 pages, $6.99, in stores on July 20.

CARTOON NETWORK BLOCK PARTY #11
Written by Robbie Busch, Sholly Fisch, Dean Haspiel, and others, art by Scott Neely, John Delaney and others, cover by Robert Pope.
Where, oh, where has Billy's cat gone? When Mandy's dog fails to find the wayward kitten, Grim summons up his dog: Cerberus! This might be the end for Endsville! Plus, tales of Johnny Bravo, Courage the Cowardly Dog, and the Eds.
32 pages, $2.25, in stores on July 27.

POWERPUFF GIRLS #64
Written by Robbie Busch, Abby Denson, and John Rozum, art by Chris Cook, Ricardo Garcia-Fuentes and Mike DeCarlo, cover by Phil Moy.
Princess gets persnickety when Bubbles wows Townsville with her gardening. It looks like there won't be peas in our time as Princess experiments with new ways to cause trouble.
32 pages, $2.25, in stores on July 20.

LOONEY TUNES #128
Written by Sam Agro, Robbie Busch and Frank Strom, art by David Alvarez, Leo Batic, Mike DeCarlo and Horacio Ottolini, cover by Alvarez and DeCarlo.
When Porky and Daffy become used-car dealers, it's hard to tell who's more crooked -- they or the bank robbers posing as their customers! Also, Witch Hazel needs a date, but it'll take a little of that old black magic to find her one.
32 pages, $2.25, in stores on July 7.

SCOOBY-DOO #98
Written by Chuck Dixon, Sholly Fisch and John Rozum, art by Joe Staton, Andrew Pepoy and Horacio Ottolini, cover by Staton
Little old ladies are always hiring Mystery, Inc. to check out haunted houses. So why does their latest client seem disappointed when they scare off the ghosts? Plus, puzzles, facts, and art lessons.
32 pages, $2.25, in stores on July 13.

MAD #456
Written and illustrated by The Usual Gang of Idiots
Get ready for more MADness, as only The Usual Gang of Idiots can deliver! Chock full of movie parodies, gags, laughs, and the non-stop hilarity you demand! Plus, lower your expectations and this issue will be even better.
48 pages, black and white, $3.50, in stores on July 7.

MAD XL #35
Written and illustrated by The Usual Gang of Idiots.
Another jam-packed issue of MAD XL, containing the Best of the Web, MAD Marginals XL, our featured Writer of the Month, more Readers¹ Choice picks, and other fun features.
96 pages, black and white, $4.99, in stores on July 13.

CMX TITLES

TENRYU: THE DRAGON CYCLE VOL. 2
Written and illustrated by Matoh Sanami.
The thrilling saga by the creator of the hit manga Fake continues! Ryukei and Hiryu are members of the Black Dragon Gang. To their astonishment, this is not just a name: they are actually Dragons, possessed of unique magical powers. Luckily for them, they have met the beautiful Ryurei, who is taking them to her grandfather in hopes of learning more about their powers. Unluckily for them, the vicious Red Wolf Gang leader is determined to snare Ryurei for his bride‹whether she wants him or not! It's wolf versus dragon in this shape-shifting sword-and-sorcery shakedown!
200 pages, black and white, in stores on July 27.

FROM EROICA WITH LOVE VOL. 4
Written and illustrated by Aoike Yasuko.
Major Eberbach has been ordered to hire international playboy thief Eroica to steal military secrets for NATO in Rome! But Eroica's ego demands a bigger prize than mere documents! A crisis erupts as the KGB, the Italian police, the Mafia, and the Roman Catholic Church are ensnared in Eroica's scheme.
224 pages, black and white, in stores on July 13.

LAND OF THE BLINDFOLDED VOL. 4
Written and illustrated by Tsukuba Sakura.
CMX. An order from the student council threatens to destroy Arou¹s school garden! To make matters worse, Kanade has glimpsed a future in which the beautiful student council president falls in love with him! Does Kanade have enough confidence in Arou to disregard her vision?
192 pages, black and white, $9.99, in stores on July 20.

MADARA VOL. 4
Illustrated by Sho-u Tajima, written by Eiji Otsuka
Illustrated by the designer of Kill Bill Vol. 1's animated sequences! Madara has defied the prophecy, choosing to live the normal life of a peaceful villager. A second Kusanagi sword combined with his own could determine the fate of the war, but Madara has had enough of using his deadly powers. But his brother Kageo and the demon Moki have other ideas. When they descend upon the village in search of Madara¹s weapon, he must either choose his heritage or die!
198 pages, black and white, $9.99, in stores on July 7.

WILDSTORM TITLES

ALBION #2

Plotted by Alan Moore, written by Leah Moore and John Reppion, art by Shane Oakley and George Freeman, cover by Dave Gibbons
Alan Moore's 6-issue mini-series reimagining classic British heroes continues! While Penny and Danny do their best to repair and refurbish Robot Archie to his past glory, they share with each other stories of a bygone heroic era. Meanwhile, Grimly Fiendish is imprisoned and thrown into solitary confinement. Plus, the introduction of the mysterious character known as Captain Hurricane.
32 pages, $2.99, in stores on July 27.

ASTRO CITY: THE DARK AGE #2
Written by Kurt Busiek, art by Brent Anderson, cover by Alex Ross.
The longest, most ambitious Astro City epic ever heats up! The Silver Agent is accused of murder and treason at the Paris Peace Talks -- and back home, criminals are coming under fire from the Blue Knight! How are Charles and Royal Williams connected to both heroes? There's panic in the streets and trouble around the world as the turbulent saga of Astro City in the 1970s continues. Also featuring The N-Forcer, Starfighter, the Street Angel, the First Family's new member and more.
32 pages, $2.99, in stores on July 27.

THE AUTHORITY: REVOLUTION #10
Written by Ed Brubaker, art by Dustin Nguyen and Richard Friend, cover by Nguyen.
Long thought dead, Henry Bendix has secretly been running the world for years! Now the Authority is back ‹ under new leadership ‹ and they're on a collision course with their ex-Weatherman! Plus, the debut of a new team member.
32 pages, $2.99, in stores on July 20.

THE AUTHORITY: HUMAN ON THE INSIDE SC
Written by John Ridley, art and cover by Ben Oliver.
A softcover edition of the thrilling original hardcover graphic novel by screenwriter John Ridley and red-hot artist Ben Oliver. The U.S. President sets a plan in motion that could destroy the Authority from the inside...a plan so cunning and unexpected, it'll shake the Authority to its very core!
96 pages, $17.99, in stores on July 7.

CITY OF TOMORROW #4
Written by Howard Chaykin, art and cover by Chaykin.
Chaykin continues to weave a tale of suspense and decadence! As the secrets of Columbia begin to surface, prodigal son Tucker Foyle continues his quest to free the island state from robotic tyranny while discovering not all robots are bad.
32 pages, $2.99, in stores on July 27.

EX MACHINA #13
Written by Brian K. Vaughan, art by Tony Harris and Tom Feister, cover by Harris.
Part 2 of "Fact vs. Fiction!" Mayor Hundred is one of twelve angry New Yorkers deliberating a scandalous case, but one of his fellow jurors is withholding a dark secret. Plus, the Mayor's closest allies investigate the identity of the mysterious new super-hero who's flown into town.
32 pages, $2.99, in stores on July 20.

DESOLATION JONES #2
Written by Warren Ellis, art and cover by J.H. Williams III.
The blistering new bimonthly series continues! It's another day at the office for Desolation Jones as he follows up leads on a particularly tough case. Jones delves deep into the rancid side of LA's spook community as he searches for answers -- and a missing girl -- in his search for a film that too many people are interested in.

Recycled images

A post from the excellent DC Archives Message Board takes a look at how DC Editor Mort Weisinger sometimes drew ideas from his pulp-editing days and used them in the comics:

Vintage Disneyland attractions posters





























More Disney.

The variant Hulk!

Action Figure.com has a few pics of the variant (i.e., hard-to-find) green Hulk that's out with the latest batch of Marvel Legends figures. CMD Store has it for $39.95 if you can't find it scouring your local stores.