Hello everyone I’m Jim Trabold welcome to the Ultimate Marvel Handbook.
Hey Daron how are you today bud?
Well, other than a little bug my girlfriend gave me (the reason I’m getting this up so late today) I’m fine.
I’m good to. We skipped last week with how busy you where. So this is like a double issue, I suppose.
Yeah, I wanted to apologize for that. I had to work an overnight shift all last week, and thought I’d still be able to work in enough time to do the column, but it just wasn’t in the cards. Sorry for that everyone. But we’re back on track here today, if a little late.
I‘m not mad about it. I‘m just hopeful it doesn’t happen to often. Let‘s start this up.
Me too”¦
Emma asked
Who are your top 10 X-Men artists ever?
Mine:
1. Joe Madureira
2. Marc Silvestri
3. Chris Bachalo
4. Jim Lee
5. John Cassaday
6. Adam Kubert
7. John Romita, Jr.
8. John Byrne
9. Jack Kirby
10. Ian Churchill
Mine and not necessarily in order (my head is spinning way to much to try and decide which of these I really like better than the others).
1. Jae Lee
2. Jim Lee
3. Whilce Portacio
4. Marc Silvestri
5. Chris Bachalo
6. Andy Kubert
7. John Romita Jr.
8. Salvador Larroca
9. Art Adams
10. Steve Epting
Cory emails this
White Queen?
Not bad. Not bad at all if you ask me. But I’ll use something wrestling again here. I know I’ll likely get hell for this one. I get hell every time so far I mention a wrestler playing a Marvel character. My idea:
Trish Stratus. She has the body and can pull off the personality. I’m just thinking. It could work.
Again, Elizabeth looks good, but I just don’t see her as White Queen, and I’m not even going to comment on Jim’s wrestler woman. I’m sure someone can come up with a better actress to play her.
What about Scarlet Johansson? Is she too young? I know there are some other good actresses out there.
If my head wasn’t spinning so much I’m sure I could come up with more. I’ll think about it this week”¦
Greetings…Sup fellas, hope all is well……and away we go:
Hey Cory
1- In correspondence to X-3, but what are your top 10 favorite X-men of all time, and why? (comic-wise)
1- Cyclops. He has the most dedication, staying power, and personality than anyone. Similar to DC’s Big Blue. Boy Scout, even ahead of Cap.
2- Wolverine. He may not be a team player, but Logan has the best interests of the X-Men at heart. Despite his wandering ways, Wolverine has been one of the most reliable X-Men over the years.
3- Storm. Storm is a character fighting who she once was (a frightened thief), who she thought she was (infallible goddess) and who she must become (an unwavering leader).
4- Professor X. Without Xavier, there would be no X-Men and no unified opposition to Magneto. Would been higher but after the last issue of Deadly Genesis, he has much explaining to do.
TIE!!! 5- Shadowcat. Strong-willed, creative and fiercely loyal. Totally endearing. Beast. Hank has struggled almost endlessly in/with his animal form. He is, ironically, one of the most human of the X-Man, taking the opinions of others to heart, and always there to use his secret weapons in any occassion—his wit & intelligence.
6- Colossus. He is the perfect contrast. In battle, he is the strongest X-Man, a brute force few can withstand. In private, he is a sensitive artist, deeply in love with Kitty Pryde. His death was a tear-jerker, as he died for all mutants.
7- Bishop. Coming from a future where the X-Men were dead, betrayed, supposedly, by Gambit, Bishop had greater regard and reverence for Xavier’s dream than almost any other X-Man before or since. Bishop was integral in the Age of Apocalypse storyline and in the unfortunate Onslaught arc. While his knowledge of a potential future carries a strong warning for today’s X-Men, he is proof that even in the most dire conditions, the Dream will live on.
8- Rogue. A former villain who has grown to become a vital member of the X-Men and proof that Xavier’s methods can work and are, in fact, necessary.
9- Jean Grey- Once sacrificed herself, choosing to die as a human than live as a God. In a universe where self-worth is almost exclusive judged on power level, Jean held her humanity so dear she was willing to give up everything she loved.
10-Nightcrawler. Faith & Religion are the reasons that Nightcrawler has stayed true to the X-Men for so long.
Honorables> Cable-He lives on the fringes of the X-Universe, but he’s an integral part of the X-Men’s past and future. Iceman- Despite being an omega mutant, his potential, however, may never be reached, because Bobby has little faith in himself. Despite his own personal issues, Iceman has been an X-Man almost his entire life. Angel- He follows the heroic arc of champion who falls from grace only to rise again, better than before.
No Gambit, though I like him more than Daron. But I remember when he was left in the Arctic after the team found out about his past secrets with Sinister & the Marauders. But since his problems with Rogue, Trust (c’mon even Mystique…MYSTIQUE doesn’t trust him and she is the biggest backstabber in comics), being a “possible” Sinister clone, and now the Horseman of Apocalypse…..he can’t win, cuz it looks like he keeps cheating!
Not a bad list. I sort of have a different list but I can’t really argue yours other then Cyclops by asking what where you drinking and do you have any left? Kidding of course but not many people like Cyc.
Mine are easy:
1. Wolverine
2. Nightcrawler
3. Colossus
4. Rogue
5. Psylocke
6. Cable
7. Deadpool (yes he counts)
8. Storm
9. Juggernaut
10. Marvel Girl (Rachel)
(honorable 11-20)
11. Beast
12. Shadowcat
13. Iceman
14. Blink
15. Mimic
16. Morph
17. Polaris
18. Bishop
19. Sage
20. Forge
Yeah mine without explanations (cause this could take all day if I did):
1. Archangel
2. Havoc
3. Sunfire
4. Iceman
5. Colossus
6. Cannonball
7. Blink
8. Forge
9. Shadowcat
10. Storm
2A- I love The New Avengers lineup…though I feel like they aremissing….someone……so who do u guys think is that missing piece, if u guys agree? I wanna say Hawkeye, but Spidey is the new jokester, I think they need that powerhouse like a Thor or Wonder Man.
Hmm well the fact that we barely see the full team in action all the time don’t help. I mean Sentry was busy with mental problems. Wolverine with the X-Men. I thought Ms Marvel should’ve been a full time member though. It needed another female member.
I do think it’s missing something and Civil War won’t help any. After all the team won’t be the same afterwards. Expect some major changes.
2B- So what are you guys favorite Avengers lineup of ALL-TIME or dream team? Cap, Thor, Hawkeye, Scarlet Witch, Quicksilver, Hawkeye, Iron Man, Vision, and maybe Ms. Marvel, Black Panther, or Black Widow.
Mine?
Official Avengers teams (top 5)
1. Avengers # 1-3 (v3) everyone that was an Avenger ever at the time with two stow aways in Firestar and Justice (I promise this is the only time I will mention a larger then live roster although I enjoyed when they brought in almost everyone to do a mission)
2. Avengers # 5 (v3): Thor, Captain America, Ms Marvel/Warbird, Iron Man, Vision, Scarlet Witch, Hawkeye, and Wonder Man.
3. Avengers # 316 (V1): Vision, Iron Man, Starfox, Thor, Captain America, Spider-Man, and Sersi. (first official Spidey)
4. Avengers # 329 (v1): Thor, Captain America, Vision, Hercules, Black Knigh, Wonder Man, Hawkeye, Mockingbird, Wasp, Doctor Pym, Captain Marvel, Quicksilver, Sub-Mariner, Sersi, Tigra, Iron Man, She-Hulk, U. S. Agent, Quasar, Black Widow, Falcon, Spider-Man, Rage, and Sandman
5. Avengers # 55 (v3): Yellowjacket, Wasp, Scarlet Witch, Iron Man, Silverclaw, Captain America, Quicksilver, Warbird, Firestar, Justice, Wonder Man, Jack of Hearts, Black Widow, Photon, Living Lightning, Firebird, Stingray, She-Hulk, Hercules, Triathlon, Vision, and Thor.
I admit I can list ten and really get carried away going threw full stories and full roster members in those stories. I’m a big Avengers fan so I’m going to ask you to forgive me if I got carried away some. I could’ve listed more.
As for dream teams we’ve covered those numerous times. I’m not rehashing that this week.
I honestly don’t think I have any”¦ I’ve never really been that big of an Avengers fan.
3- Hawkeye!!! “At present his fate is ambiguous; House of M #8 depicted several heroes arriving at the ruined Avengers mansion, after a report that someone had been there, only to find Hawkeye’s costume and a newspaper cutting about his death, pinned to the ruins by Hawkeye’s trademark purple arrows.” Since his Clint’s “Hawkeye” costume is in the old mansion, that alone is proof that he maybe the imposter DD. He’s a fighter (trained by Cap), agile with impeccable aim, a rebel, and about DD’s build, so…you never know? Plus, didn’t Matt say something like he was gonna not be DD to Cap, when Cap asked him to join the New Avengers upon the introduction of Ronin???
I can see your thinking. That’s why I think it’s Clint. He makes to much sense. He’s got no costume now and likely wants to get back into heroing. So while Matt’s away why not let Clint play the role.
4- By the way, WHERE THE HELL IS RONIN? There was so much hype about him, before we found out he was a she.
The rumors say she will appear in New Avengers AFTER Civil War. I’m curious to see how that will work out. I’m sure fans had a bad reaction to who it was too.
SABRETOOTH!!!!
5-Wolverine is now James “Logan” Howlett, but what’s this I hear that Sabretooth’s name really isn’t Victor Creed? Huh? and that soon he will be joining the ranks of the X-men starting in June…didn’t they learn with his stint in X-Factor & what happened when he fought Psylocke?
Well that’s always been a question in ways to. Since Sabretooth became a Weapon Xer himself they made it more now as a possibility that his real name might not be Victor Creed. I’ve been used to calling him Creed way to long myself.
Yep he’s joining the X-Men again. He’s going to be a full time member too. If you notice also Mystique is on the same team. Reminds you a little of the old X-Factor days with both as members. I have a weird feeling the team will come about AFTER Civil War. That somehow they will join through the war. I’m not positive though.
6- Remember how in the Mutant Massacre that Sinister created clones of all the Marauders, even possibly Sabretooth…ok…now he & Wolvie are almost identical in terms of powers…now when Dale Rice, a spy in the Weapon X project was killed by Wolverine during his escape. Years later, Rice’s son Zander used his father’s briefcase full of stolen data, blood and tissue samples to recreate Weapon X. Zander and Dr. Sarah Kinney, a geneticist specializing in mutant genes, attempted to clone Wolverine. Twenty-two times their attempts were unsuccessful; the sample’s Y chromosome was too severely damaged to create a viable clone, and the embryos perished before reaching the first month of development. To get around this problem, Kinney simply doubled the X chromosome, meaning the successful clone would be female.
For some time, it was not known if the current Sabretooth was the original Sabretooth or his clone. Mister Sinister suggested in X-Men volume 2 #34 that Sabretooth’s regenerative healing factor made it nearly impossible to clone him. He confirmed this claim in Gambit volume 3 #8, where he also stated that Sabretooth was the only Marauder who was not a clone.
Now with this theory, though Sinister is a true geneticist, isn’t it possible that the same problem in cloning Wolverine would result in the same for Sabretooth? unless there is a female Sabretooth around?…hey he already lost his son.
There’s a possibility of a female Sabretooth. I mean since we have yet to see one don’t mean there isn’t one. Also Sinister might be contradicting known facts as well. I believe that there might have been a Sabretooth clone shown in one issue. I can’t recall the issue but I swear there might be one.
7- In Sabretooth’s first appearances as an Iron Fist and Luke Cage villain, he was originally written as a serial murderer/assassin who was human and wore clawed gloves.It was only later that he was retconned into becoming a mutant, when Wolverine started becoming more popular and needed his own arch-nemesis. So if Wolverine had’ve tanked…..WHAT AM I SAYING!!!!!!…LOL….ol Sabretooth would’ve been left to being a B to C list villian huh?
Hmm very much possible. If Wolverine didn’t need Sabretooth and the fact that during Mutant Massacre he didn’t become a very useful villain especially for Logan then Sabretooth might just be one of those b class villains just appearing randomly in issues of series to cause trouble.
8- I have yet to play or buy The X-3:Official game, so can anyone tell me the game’s reason for Nightcrawler not being in the third movie?
I have yet to play the game myself. I assume it’s possible Nightcrawler was given the cure in the game. Also very much possible he died or left the team to find his true origins. I’m going to have to play the game myself.
9- Wolverine!!!! He is perhaps the most screwed up character in modern fiction. Wolverine’s life is full of betrayals. He can never be certain of whom to trust, part of the reason for his loner mentality. Now guys, remember in the ’80s and ’90s when Wolverine was far more than just his claws. Often times writers get sucked into thinking about Wolverine as a one-trick pony. Don’t forget, this is a man who was a mercenary, who used stealth, guns and explosives to get the job done. He may have switched tactics since hanging with the X-Men for many years, but that doesn’t mean his skills are gone. Wolverine was bred by the Weapon X program to be a killer by any means necessary. The claws are just one tool in Wolverine’s arsenal. Wolverine is not invincible or all-powerful. He doesn’t have to hack and slash through every enemy. Think of him as Jack Bauer (24) or Sam Fisher (Splinter Cell). He’s a man with incredible skill and cunning who can kill creatively. It’s not just the environment that holds weapons. Wolvie can use guns and explosives for long-range combat. The claws are only so long, after all. Guys, will these glory days ever return??? Though he is a hothead, I hate when he gets angry, pops out his claws (bye, bye element of surprise), charges the enemy, gets hit, and is unconscious for however long. Am I right?
I like the claws but you are right writers tend to forget Wolverine in the old days used a lot more to win a fight. Heck I would like a writer or two to do that more often. I can see it happening but we need a good writer to jump onto Wolverine’s title to do it. Maybe Mark Millar or someone like that.
Didn’t Millar just finish a run on Wolverine?
X-3 tidbits:
The chances of a fourth installment have been publicly stated to rest on just how well this film does at the box office. Patrick Stewart and Halle Berry (source: http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/programmes/breakfast/4995028.stm) also firmly said that if the movie fares well, there will be more movies in the franchise. The final scene and extra scene after the credits leave the franchise open.
The popular X-Men character Gambit, was rumored to appear in the film (some rumors stating the actor Josh Holloway was asked to cameo in the role), but writers Kinberg and Penn confirmed that Gambit was never seriously considered. Hmmm, maybe???
Rumors that the character Dazzler would have a cameo are unfounded. They surfaced due to singer-actress Beverly Mahood’s reported (but also untrue) appearance in the film. Jessica Simpson was rumored at first in a small cameo.
I’m positive there will be an X-4 and so on. Just some of the same cast might not be there for all the sequels. I can see some cool new characters being added and the like to compensate. Even the movie sort of leaves open a chance at X-4. There‘s a scene after the credits remember everyone
I’m out! Thanks again for your idea, input, and opinions! Same time, next week! See ya!
p.s. Quotes: [from trailer] Logan: Magneto’s got an army out there. You gotta war, you might not come home. She might not come home, you ready for that?
Oh God, everyone knows about Wikipedia now…..my secret is out…lol.
lol yep your secret is out. See you next week and have fun at X-3.
Greg emails again
Hey Jim! And by the way, being a wrestling fan as well…that WAS a nice comics/wrestling segue.
Thank you Greg.
Thanks for printing my email, I actually wasn’t expecting that! It wouldn’t surprise me if we were seeing a Tony Stark “heel turn,” after all they did it before about ten years ago. Actually, it’s funny some of the parallels between this huge Marvel event and that one, when you think about it:
Your welcome. I try to print all emails into the column. This one included.
1 -A longtime Avenger, for reasons we can’t quite buy, snaps and turns on his/her teammates. Death ensues – (Iron Man/Scarlet Witch)
2 – The story continues to build to a point where reality itself is changed, and we see slightly altered versions of classic characters – (Heroes Reborn/House of M)
3 – Mutants catch the short end of it all in the status quo that results, becoming the target of some kind of human-based Sentinel – (Operation: Zero Tolerance/Decimation)
4 – The return of Thor is sold as an anticipated event – (Heroes Return/Civil War)
It’s probably all a matter of the forest vs. the trees, but I remember thinking back on the time that elapsed between Avengers #500 and House of M #1 and thinking that it all felt very familiar…
They do find ways of connecting stories in ways and you can always find similarities in most events.
Tony turning heel of course has been done a few times of note. As you even point out.
Armor Wars being one
Avengers Crossing another.
Some people can find similarities in Civil War to a few past Marvel big events. You can do it with other big stories comparing them to the past.
Onslaught like you just did with Civil War.
Days of Future Past with Decimation.
Kree/Skrull War with Operation: Galactic Storm
I’m sure there are others and I’m just blanking. I know you can find key events to link some to others. You know taking one bit from a big story and seeing a parallel
Civil War:
Iron Man turns heel = Armor Wars
Captain America turns his back on the Government=Cap No More
Spider-Man new costume=Secret Wars
SHRA=Mutant Registration Act
Again there are others not mentioned. So your right on your comments
As for the Ricochet idea…I’m not sure if it’ll work after Marvel gets through with this Civil war stuff, because this arbitrary use of the characters as fodder to try to inflate the stakes of their Big Summer Event could potentially undermine the foundation of my idea. See the thing about what’s happening to the Slingers now that really aggravates me is that after Slingers #12, they QUIT. They experienced a sense of closure after their confrontation with Mephisto, and they walked away from the life. Which, incidentally was something I wanted to play with in my series idea. I felt Rico was the coolest character with the greatest breakout potential, so he was going to be the central character. I wanted to write him as a former superhero that still puts on the costume, but not to go fight crime. Johnny Gallo would tell himself that he does it so that he can enjoy his mutant powers in the open without looking weird. (after all, in a place like Marvel New York you can’t go three feet without seeing someone in tights and a mask!) But the thing is, and this would be the thing he won’t admit to himself, he also misses it. And then one day – conveniently enough, Ricochet #1, he finds himself sliding back into the life he thought he was finished with. But of course, after that first story, he would continue to resist the idea of being a “hero” and attaching some great noble purpose to the Ricochet outfit/persona, even in spite of the adventures he keeps getting into.
The Hornet was going to be part of the supporting cast as the sidekick figure, Johnny’s roommate. So when I read the issue where the Hornet died at the hands of Wolverine, I was more than a little irked. But then I figured so long as the name “Eddie McDonough” is never used, there’s a backdoor around it. Moreover, I could use that to fuel a storyline I wanted to write. Which is also where Prodigy would’ve come in, and so long as the name “Ritchie Gilmore” is never used, I can still use him, too.
Marvel is full of examples of multiple people adopting similar names and costumes over the years. Names that could be considered “public domain.” So I thought I’d write a story where Ricochet – who himself is the second person to have the name, behind Peter Parker – meets characters who are a part of this subculture in the Marvel Universe. A group of “aspiring” heroes who use the names Nighthawk (Squadron Supreme), his girlfriend Bluebird (Untold Tales of Spider-Man), the Seeker (Fantastic Four) and so forth. The Hornet who Wolverine killed could’ve been someone like this. Someone who wanted to make a name for himself, who was too stupid not to turn tail and run when WOLVERINE is coming at them. However, in the course of this Public Domain Superheroes storyline, I would’ve had Eddie somehow discover a fragment of the Hornet armor, and then go on a quest himself to learn about the man who took the name after him.
As for Prodigy…in the course of this story, I would’ve revealed him as the leader of the group of heroes Nighthawk, Bluebird and the Seeker belong to…only he wouldn’t be Prodigy anymore, himself. He’d be the new Black Marvel, in honor of the Golden Age character who was the Slingers’ former mentor.
I dunno…I thought it’d be cool – a comic featuring a character that exists almost at the edge of the Marvel Universe. I wanted to do something that was kind of in the same vein as the sort of comics I’m seeing from Ed Brubaker, Dan Slott and Whedon’s Astonishing X-Men – stories that actually FEEL like Marvel stories, you know? I could show you the pitch package I made for Marvel last year, if you’re interested. They passed on it, probably because of the plans they already had in place, but I figure at some point, maybe after I’ve been published a bit more, I’ll have another chance at it.
Very cool ideas. I think it could’ve worked. There is one little matter I could’ve mentioned too. Another factor you would have to get past.:
Excelsior. Yep The group of heroes called Excelsior.
Runaways (vol. 2) #1-6 introduced a group of heroes. This group was Excelsior. A support group for former teenage superheroes, founded by Turbo of the New Warriors and Phil Urich, the heroic former Green Goblin. Its stated goal is to help fellow teenage superheroes to adjust to mundane lives and dissuade other super-powered teenagers from becoming heroes. In the end of the “True Believers” arc, it was revealed that the group was secretly sponsored by Rick Jones on the behalf of Captain America, who hoped to ensure the Runaways don’t get into trouble.
Johnny Gallo, a.k.a. Ricochet of the Slingers was a member of the group. But I like your idea a ton myself. Good luck with any future plans for stories.
Take it easy!
You too.
Our fellow staffer Jeff “I gotta have more cowbell” Ritter emails again
Yo Jim! WAZZZZUP! (Yo Daron, XXXX these XXXX, XXXXX!!)
Hey Jeff how goes it.
You gys talked a little about X-4 last week. I recently read a short interview with Hugh Jackman who didn’t seem to think there would be an X-4, but Wolverine as a solo movie is slated for next year, and there’s a “Life and Times of Magneto” movie in the works as well.
I however think that it would be the perfect time to do….drumroll….ALL-NEW ALL-DIFFERENT X-MEN: THE MOVIE! Get a whole new team. No Wolvie, No Cyclops, No Professor Picard. Same universe. You could bring in a team of Havok (Daron’s already giving a thumbs up), Polaris, Forge, Banshee, Sunfire, Psylocke and…um…need a big strong type…NAH!…bring in Gambit and kill him OVER and OVER. Feature the Hellfire Club as the main villain entity, and add Mr. Sinister to their membership–since he’s Gambit’s benefactor and offers intrigue onward into X-Men 5. X-4 features the Hellfire Club and the Reavers, X-5 is Sinister and we see hints of the Horsemen, and X-6 we bring the WHOLE GANG BACK TOGETHER, both teams combining to end the franchise against Apocalypse. That takes the X-Franchise up to about 2012 or so, and gives the actors time to do other things. I think that’s the main factor–these current X-Men want to do other projects and are getting stuck making X-Movies over and over. That and Halle “Catwoman” Berry keeps bitching and moaning about everything. Write her out for a couple movies and then bring her back for the big send-off. Hollywood DOESN’T HAVE THE CAJONES to try and do something like this. BTW, get Peter Jackson to direct the 6th one, he’s good at handling large casts.
I don’t think anyone would see X-4 with that line up. There’s no real pull for the X-Fan. Not to say some fans don’t like some of the characters it’s just that none of them have the fan basis to hold the franchise. I think there will be an X-4. I just don’t think anyone is allowed to talk about it. I think you bring back Hugh Jackman. Keep Colossus, Kitty, Rogue, Iceman and add all those you mentioned. Get rid of Storm maybe or replace Halle. Ask Patrick Steward if he’s willing to come back for X-4 and then do your story. Simple to do and would have the fan appeal.
Oh and lest I forget, Thunderbolts has been BETTER, but three above issues isn’t an outstanding run. Not when it took so damn long to get there. Keep spreading the word and hopefully Fabian will stay on the right track. (Here that Fabe? Stay on track!)
I’m going to agree with you. Fabian must keep it on track. I hope in Civil War he does just that. He can do it. He just can’t make any mistakes. So let’s just keep spreading that word and that includes those reading this. Go to your shop and grab an issue. Try it out. If you already are a reader pick it up for a friend on top and tell them to try it.
Hey, me again, just wanted to mention something I realized today. In your list of the 198 mutants…where is Namor? He’s still got his ankle wings and can still fly, right? He’s always been tag-lined as “Marvels first and mightiest mutant” despite never being in a X-Book. But he’s a mutant (Atlantean-human hybrids don’t typically sprout feathers on their feet or fly, right?) so shouldn’t he be added to the list? I don’t know as mych about Namorita but might she qualify as well–if the opening shot of the Civil War didn’t kill her, that is…
You are right. I should have Namor on the old list. I pulled the list from the column now but he should’ve been on it at the least as of New Avengers Illuminati # 1. How I didn’t add him don’t ask. How no one noticed it till now is another question.
Futureraven posted
Just wondering if there are any French superheroes? I’m moving there, and I want to know I’ll be protected.
I just can’t think of any, there are French Canadians, Gambitchcakes from New Orelans, Fantomex who just prefers to pretend he’s French.
The scary thing is. I can think of 1. Well 1 Marvel.
Le Peregrine
Real Name: Alain Racine
Occupation: Writer, adventurer
Other Aliases: None
Place Of Birth: Moulins, France
Marital Status: Single
Known Relatives: None
Group Affiliation: Ally of Silver Sable
Abilities: Athlete, excellent foot-fighting combatant (in powersuit) has the ability to fly
First Appearance: Contest Of Champions #1
Any others my mind is a blank on.
Paul emails
cable wasn’t taught how to use his power right when he was sent to the future by the Askani because he was still an infant. Also He learned his control of his powers from “Redd” Jean grey and “Slym” Scott Summers after their souls were ripped out of their bodies by “Mother Askani” Rachel Summers when the forces of apocalypse were attacking the Askani temple.
You are correct. Thank you for clearing that one up. Heck I should’ve made it more clear then I did even.
A_Faceless_Name
The cyclone was a French Super Villian. He kidnapped JJ, and spider-man beat him with a giant fan. I know there are a few heroes but I can’t think of who.
AS for Nick names, Sandman has Grit Grin.
Nice one Faceless. I’m wondering why no one else is giving me much of any answers.
Since in the latest issue of Cap, it’s revealed that Lukin has bought Roxxon, doesn’t that make him higher up the list?
Yep. That should be higher on my list now. I’ll have to fix that when I can get more information for other changes
koh posted
Well, technically, Gambit’s ancestors are French. So don’t worry, you’ll be protected by a thousand hyper-cajuns who speak real French for a change. Somewhere, in his timezone, I can hear Daron screaming.
You could probably hear me screaming through a few time zones”¦
If you’re into the Ultimate Universe, you also have Captain France. Problem is, you can’t really count on him with all those new European government directives…
I don’t know if Cyclone is really French – what would he be doing in the US? But I’d bet Jim knows. Jim, care to bring some light to this class Z villain? (IIRC he only appeared in a couple of Spider-Man issues way back in the days…)
However, Marvel aside, if you’re really interested in French superheroes, we do have Superdupont
Sure Cyclone is easy enough to do a bio on.
Cyclone I
Real Name: Unrevealed
Occupation: Professional criminal, former engineer
Other Aliases: None
Place Of Birth: Lyons, France
Marital Status: Single
Known Relatives: None
Group Affiliation: Agent of Maggia
Powers: Cyclone invented a device which could create whirlwinds and tornados
First Appearance: Amazing Spiderman Vol.1 #143
History: Formerly an engineer for NATO, Cyclone had a falling out with his former employees, supposedly related to political decisions over implementing his research, based on the development of a wind-generating weapon. Cyclone took his invention and used it for his own criminal ends, developing his Cyclone costume and other weapons.
Like many criminal masterminds in Spider-Man comics, he decided to form a gang and capture J. Jonah Jameson, the owner of the Daily Bugle and like so many criminal masterminds who follow this plan, he was defeated by Spider-Man.
He was subsequently employed by the Maggia, and was doing relatively well for himself (in spite of a subsequent defeat at the hands of Spider-Man), when he was in the wrong place at the wrong time, and met his death at the hands of Scourge.
Cyclone II
Real Name: Gregory Stevens
Occupation: Mercenary/Killer
Other Aliases: none
Place Of Birth: unknown
Marital Status: unknown
Known Relatives: unknown
Group Affiliation: Hamme’s agents
Powers: device which could create whirlwinds and tornados
First Appearance: Marvel Comics Presents # 97
History: this time as a Silver Sable villain who had no connection with the previous or current Cyclone known in the Spider-Man and Thunderbolts comics.
Cyclone III
Real Name: Pierre Fresson
Occupation: Unrevealed
Other Aliases: Unrevealed
Place Of Birth: Unrevealed location in France
Marital Status: Unrevealed
Known Relatives: None
Group Affiliation: Masters Of Evil VII, Maggia
Powers: Got the original Cyclone’s device, for creating whirlwinds and tornados
First Appearance: Thunderbolts #3
History: This Cyclone was only small-time thief in France named Pierre Fresson, until the technology from the first Cyclone’s suit was recreated by a crime family. The suit generates a tornado around half the wearer’s body from the mid-section down. Cyclone II is a member of both the 7th and 8th incarnation of the Masters of Evil.
X-3 Review
Alright folks here’s my review with spoilers
I’m telling you I’m going to be called a big Marvel kiss ass but I loved X-3. Hell I thought it was the best X-Men movie of the bunch. Yes I admit they didn’t really introduce the characters too much. Most of them only just entered into the scene and you had to mostly guess who they where.
I loved the action and most of the events taking place. Yes they didn’t make the Phoenix Saga perfect but heck you would have had to do a lot to do that. We all know that. I wouldn’t have minded Phoenix good in this one though. Do the cure with good Phoenix. X-4 would’ve been a perfect Dark Phoenix Saga with the HFC. I admit that. But it still was a damn great movie.
Now spoilers
The opening with the young Xavier and Magneto was great with the de-aging and even the cameos of Stan and Chris. Perfect show of Young Jean. Even the Angel scene was perfect to intro the cure.
Jean coming out of the water was so much like the comics and of course the visor trick came straight from comics.
The Danger Room was great and very much Days of Future Past. I loved that scene the most
The Morlocks of course showing up works perfect. After all they make sense if you want a quick army of mutants.
The cure very useful plot. Even empowering Magneto, Rogue and Mystique is fine. Especially since it’s perfect.
Here deaths work fine as well. Jean killing Cyc even though you don’t fully see it. Leaves open some possibilities. Xaviers death was great. You see how much they care for him and he does come back. Also yes Jean gets killed by Wolverine. Perfect. She likely will be back to.
I bring in Sinister for X-4 personally with the plot openings sitting there all ready for him. After all who would react the best? Sinister. He would see Cyclops death as a perfect time to strike. Let him have the HFC.
Yes a few characters die also you don’t care to much about and they can even bring them back later. Especially Psylocke.
I’m in love with this one and I’m giving it a 9 out of 10. I suggest you go see it. I don’t care if it’s spoiled some it’s still GREAT.
Must read picks of the week (last week. This weeks books came out Thursday.)
It’s that time again everyone. This weeks top 5 Marvel books of the week.
1. IRON MAN # 8 While an unknown assassin continues to target a globe-spanning hit list, an enhanced Tony Stark continues to test the waters of his new powers. The international trail heats up in this newest installment in Iron Man’s now-monthly series! Part 2 of 6.
This story helps really lead into a few events of House of M. Make sure to read it.
2. WOLVERINE # 42 Marc Guggenheim, a veteran writer for TV’s The Practice, Law & Order, and most recently, CSI , is joined by fan-favorite artist Humberto Ramos (SPECTACULAR SPIDER-MAN) for this CIVIL WAR tie-in arc.
In the aftermath of the Riverbank Tragedy, Logan makes it his personal mission to take down the man responsible. No sooner does he begin his hunt, however, than he discovers that someone else is stalking the same prey: a mysterious trio whose identity — and disturbing mission — will come as a shock to many! If Logan’s unsettled by who these guys are, then just wait until he discovers who they answer to!
Finally a Civil War tie-in issue. Well one labeled it finally. This one really was damn good. You get to learn more about what happened to Wolverine during the day of the incident.
3. SHE-HULK # 8 CIVIL WAR threatens the rights of every American super hero. So whose side will Marvel’s top superhuman lawyer fight for? And how can she possibly choose, when she feels one way as She-Hulk, and another as Jen Walters?
4. NEW AVENGERS # 19 The secrets of HOUSE OF M have come back to bite the Avengers right on the collective butt. as the Avengers fight a fight they cannot win, S.H.I.E.L.D. does the impossible and arrests Spider-Man!!
5. DAREDEVIL # 85 Award-winning creators Ed Brubaker and Michael Lark’s debut story “THE DEVIL IN CELL BLOCK D” hits a turning point! With all the prison gangs against him, Matt Murdock turns to unlikely allies in his quest for the truth. And as Kingpin returns to Gen-Pop, Ryker’s Island teeters on the edge of an explosion, and Matt can either give it a push, or remember the man he used to be. Meanwhile, Ben Urich and Dakota North hunt whoever is running around Hell’s Kitchen pretending to be Daredevil!
The Civil War update!
(for the Super-Human Registration)
Agent Hill Civil War # 1)
Colleen Wing (Daughters of the Dragon # 3)
Hindsight Lad (She-Hulk # 8)
Iron Man (New Avengers: The Illuminati)
Mister Fantastic (New Avengers: The Illuminati)
Ms Marvel (Civil War # 1)
S.H.I.E.L.D. (Civil War # 1)
Spider-Man (Amazing Spider-Man # 530)
Thing (Civil War # 1)
Titanium Man (Amazing Spider-Man #529)
Yellowjacket (Civil War # 1)
Nighthawk (Civil War # 1)
She-Hulk (She-Hulk # 8)
(against Super-Human Registration)
Black Bolt (New Avengers: The Illuminati)
Black Panther (New Avengers: The Illuminati)
Captain America (Civil War # 1)
Daredevil (Civil War # 1)
Doctor Strange (New Avengers: The Illuminati)
Falcon (Civil War # 1)
Goliath (Bill Foster) (Civil War # 1)
Hulk (New Avengers: The Illuminati)
Invisible Woman (Fantastic Four #536)
Namor (New Avengers: The Illuminati)
Patriot (Civil War # 1)
Wasp (Civil War # 1)
Wolverine (Civil War # 1)
Justice (She-Hulk #8)
Rage (She-Hulk #8)
Jennifer Walters (She-Hulk # 8)
Firestar (She-Hulk #8)
Slapstick (She-Hulk #8)
Ultra Girl (She-Hulk # 8)
Possibly Injured:
Debrii (She-Hulk #8)
Human Torch (Civil War # 1)
Timeslip (She-Hulk #8)
Casualties (dead):
Cobalt Man – Civil War #1
Coldheart – Civil War #1
Microbe – Civil War #1
Namorita – Civil War #1
Night Thrasher – Civil War #1
Speedball – Civil War #1
Speedfreek – Civil War #1
Issues and synopsis so far:
Amazing Spider-Man #529-531: After receiving a new costume from Tony Stark he goes to Washington with the man to speak to Congress about a Superhuman Registration act. Tony Stark as Iron Man pays Titanium Man to combat Spider-Man. Spidey agrees to stick with Tony no matter what.
Fantastic Four #536-537: Thor’s hammer returned to Earth crashing into Oklahoma and then put under U.S. Army protection. Six months later Doctor Doom, who had escaped from Hell during the hammers return, tried to claim the hammer for himself but was unable to lift it. After this, a man wearing a backpack with the initials “D.B.” is seen boarding a bus for Oklahoma.
New Avengers: The Illuminati: Iron Man was handed a copy of the Super-human Registration Act. He told the rest of the group about it. Reed Richards went along with Iron Man, but Namor, Dr. Strange and Black Bolt all disagreed and left. With most of the members gone, it implied that the team was over, with Mr. Fantastic telling Iron Man that it “was fun while it lasted” before leaving.
Civil War # 1: The New Warriors, filming a reality television show, and a cadre of villains in Stamford, Connecticut. The battle goes wrong for the heroes, resulting in villain Nitro creating an explosion that takes out a local school, the surrounding neighborhood, and all but one of the Warriors. This event catalyzes a government movement to register all super-powered beings as living weapons of mass destruction. The event has also turned the public opinion against the superheroes as many of them are blamed for the incident. Due to this, many superheroes Johnny Storm has been attacked by the public. Meanwhile, S.H.I.E.L.D. tries to recruit Captain America to become part of the team that will force superheroes to register. Captain America refuses and after being attacked by S.H.I.E.L.D., goes underground. Iron Man, Yellowjacket and Mister Fantastic will deal with Cap somehow.
Wolverine 42: Wolverine learns of the events of Stamford, Connecticut and goes to help out. He also wants to personally deal with the true villain behind it Nitro. He also seems against the act.
She-Hulk # 8: She-Hulk is split. Jennifer is against the act while She-Hulk seems for it as she defends the remaining New Warriors. This brings back quite a few old New Warriors and explains who’s side they are on. John Jameson also talks to Captain America who’s gone underground
Other events/series that led to Civil War or connected (these I won’t add in every week):
Avengers Disassembled
House of M
Decimation
Secret War
New Avengers: Breakout
New Warriors (limited series)
Spider-Man: The Other
Daughters of the Dragon (limited series)
There’s another edition of the Marvel Handbook for everyone. So Daron what did you think?
Pretty good stuff. Hopefully we can be on time next week.
I thought we had a great issue. I’m sure you thought the same. I’m sure most fans will email reactions to X-3 next week. After all we had an odd off week last week.
Alrighty I’ll let you finish us off this week bud.
Notes:
1. Marvel.com pollThe Civil War is upon us! Whose side are you on?
2. Digital comics Comics you can read online
3. CBR poll “X-Men: The Last Stand.” It’s the first big summer comic film release and it’s now in theaters everywhere. On a scale of 1 – 10, 10 being the best, how would you rate it?
4.Superherohype poll How do you rate “X-Men: The Last Stand”? (with 10 being best)
5. Marvel is in the process of adding new bios and added a ton of new ones. Check them out here
6. As always your opinions on anything in the article or out on the shelves is welcome. After all you never know what type of response you will get.
7. Keep those emails coming and make sure to label them Marvel Handbook. The more emails the better
That’s it from my end. Reporting from my corner of the Marvel Universe I’m Jim Trabold. Have a great week and see you at the comic shop.
Well, other than apologizing for the missing update last week, I’m spent. I hope you all enjoyed this week’s edition and make sure to check back with us next week, and keep those emails coming. LATER!
