Cool Projects #12

Thanks again for returning for another edition of our "Cool Projects" series. In #12 we have a couple creator owned comics that we think you'll enjoy as well as a crowd funding campaign for a movie that NEEDS to be made (in our opinion)! As always, enjoy and share!

Comic creator Todd Rayner sent us a review copy of his creator owned series, 'Icepick'. This book focuses on a costumed vigilante called 'Icepick'. 'Icepick' has what seems to be a mystical power to harness energy as a weapon, and a relentless ferocity thats one part Spawn and one part The Punisher. We dont get much of the characters back story in this first issue, but there is a connection between the vigilante and a scientist who's targeted by a mafia-like gang.

As I mentioned, Rayner doesn't touch on the back back story much, but the comic is very well scripted (I promise that comment makes sense. Read it, you'll understand), and written to the point that I have a confidence in Rayner and his intent to fill the voids in future issues. The solid writing combined with the great art reminiscent of Miller's Dark Knight with a bit of influence from Dave Gibbons' work on the Watchmen. Mr. Rayner, compliments his writing by creating very dark and gritty metropolitan landscapes, which as a fan of characters like Batman and Spawn, I really dig. This books definitely has me intrigued, and I'll be on the lookout for book 2. You can get a copy of 'Icepick #1' HERE or through Todd Rayner by finding him at a con or on Facebook. 

Another solid creator owned comic submitted to us, is The Space Heists Of Vyvy & Qwerty. This fun read is written and created by Niall Presnall, with art from Carlos Trigo and Osmarco Viladao.

This one was a fun read about Vyvy, a sarcastic, bombshell of a smuggler alongside her partner in crime, Qwerty, who we join mid mission. The mission: to find Qwerty the cyborg's creator. The plan goes weary, setting a wild chase in motion, and hopefully more books in the series.

The thing that stands out and intrigues me about this comic is the homages to many of our favorite stories and franchises from Robin Hood to Firefly to Star Wars and more...especially Star Wars as Vyvy and Qwerty feel like a tribute to Han Solo and Chewbacca specifically. 

I love the well written, sarcastic, innuendo laced dialogue, which gives us a sense who these characters are, without having to  push much backstory. That paired with the bold, anime inspired artworkb really make The Space Heists Of Vyvy And Qwerty work. I think Preanall, Trigo, and Viladao have a solid series budding here. Go grab a copy of The Space Heists Of Vyvy & Qwerty on Comixology and check out their Kickstarter to get book #2 published: https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/1090882041/the-space-heists-of-vyvy-and-qwerty-2 

I also mentioned a film project in the "crowd funding" stage of production...

Check out the GoFundMe for the film 'Preacher Six'. This film is an action-thriller produced by and starring Kyle Hester. Kyle is known for starring in Alterna Comics' 'The Chair', and the currently filming 'Zombie With A Shotgun'.

'Preacher Six', according to IMDb, "is a film about a small town preacher, who is brought to the city to fight evil "in a literal sense".  This one is slated to have an awesome cast including Carmen Argenziano (Godfather 2), Bill Oberst (Criminal Minds), Naomi Grossman (American horror Story), Zach Galligan (Gremlins) and Hester. Check out the trailer and decide for yourself. Personally, I want to see this one made, so lets push the GoFundMe campaign! Have a look and consider supporting it here: www.gofundme.com/preacher-six-los-angeles-shoot, and check out this trailer:

Stay tuned here at www.thestevestrout.com for more "Cool Projects", and if you want to contribute to the site (covering conventions, doing reviews, or anything relevant to the nerdy/pop culture theme), or  maybe know of a project we should mention, get in touch!

Steve Strout is the media mastermind (haha) behind this site, host of the Comic Book Swap Meet, nerd, terrible artist, gamer, convention goer and comic book reader who spends more time rescuing toys from thrift shops than a normal adult should. He is also known around the northwest for his promotion of live music and stand-up comedy events and is the creator/producer of the Comic Book Swap Meet mini convention, and Olympic Peninsula Comedy Competition (which will make it's big return soon!). Follow him on Instagram at http://instagram.com/thestevestrout, and  He can be reached for comments at ptcomedy@yahoo.com on twitter at @thestevestrout

          

Cool Projects #11

I've mentioned multiple times how I'm  pro wrestling fan, and that I want to share some wrestling stuff here, so this edition of 'Cool Projects' is all about a couple awesome wrestling themed comic books from Boom Studios.

Boom started a WWE comic series featuring a series of stories covering debuts and other milestones in WWE superstar's careers. For example, early issues featured Seth Rollins' big heel turn and betrayal of the Shield faction under the tutelage of HHH and the Authority.

The series has been ongoing, with special issues including the 2018 Royal Rumble Special, and features the art and writing of such talented creators as Dennis Hopeless (Spider-Man), Dan Mora (Klaus), Ross Thibodeaux (Mighty Morphin Power Rangers), Rob Guillory (Chew), Ryan Ferrier (Kong On The Planet Of The Apes), Kevin Panetta (Regular Show), Kendall Goode (The Doorman), and Daniel Bayliss (WWE: Then. Now. Forever.) alongside contributions from the wrestlers themselves.

Cool Projects #10

In this edition of "Cool Projects', were bringing you a couple creator owned comics, a awesome goth and horror themed artist's shop and more...Enjoy, support these projects, and share!

Robert Tritthardt (Writhe and Shine)

Robert Tritthardt has been known on the scene for years with his comic series 'Writhe and Shine'...Recently he launched an etsy page to sell his gothic and horror themed art. This stuff is stunning work featuring but not limited to themes such as monsters, steampunk, goth and fantasy. Check out his page at www.etsy.com/shop/WritheAndShine. You can also find more art, including original art from his comic, 'Writhe and Shine' at  writheandshine.storenvy.com! 

Jet City Comic Show 2017 Recap

This recap of the 2017 Jet City Comic Show will be short and sweet. Let me tell you why...

As I've mentioned in recent posts, I had some health issues. Unfortunately those issues kept me away from my beloved convention scene. Being away also deprived me from seeing so many friends and acquaintances that I always crossed paths with at these fandom conventions, so I kind of got sidetracked a bit too much visiting all of my people at this show, also depriving myself from taking a ton of pictures like I normally would have. With that being said, it was fantastic getting back into the swing of things, and you can expect so much more in the coming months (as life permits). I also only attended one day, for the aforementioned reasons.

The Jet City Comic Show usually marks the end of the convention season in the Northwest, and as with each year, it culminates with one of the friendliest and exciting shows around. This year expanded the floor a bit adding some awesome replica automobiles from our favorite shows and more great panels than ever. 

Q&A with Horror Movie host, Ghouleena

A lot of our younger generation didn't have the opportunity to enjoy the late night monster and sci-fi movies hosted by characters like Vampira, Zacherley, Elvira and the Ghoul. The retro horror host became to be almost a lost art, except for character like the prior mentioned Elvira, and legends such as Svengoolie keeping it alive... until recently.

There's been a resurgence in the horror host genre, with the power of the making it easier to be seen around the world. One of the newest stars of the scene is Detroit horror hostess, Ghouleena. Her debut on The Monster Channel broke records for the ever growing online network, and has been wowing audiences on the horror convention circuit with her spooky charm and vampy beauty, reminiscent of horror queens Vampira, Elvira, and even Morticia Addams! Ghouleena took the time out of her crazy schedule to chat with us, so as always, enjoy and share away...And support your local horror hosts!!!

TheSteveStrout- Where and when can the audience catch your show?

Ghouleena- You can catch the first air date of my show on eerielatenight.com, and shortly after they will go up on my youtube channel & website for free veiwing! I always post about it on all my social media - so as soon as I know my next air date, you can find it there!

Cool Projects #9

Since this should be the last 'Cool Projects' post before Halloween, I thought it fitting to keep things spooky to help get in the spirit by bringing you the 9th installment of 'Cool Projects'. Spread the word, and support these 'Cool Projects', as well as www.thestevestrout.com!

Blood and Gourd- Jenz Lund and D.H. Shultis

'Blood and Gourd' is an indie comic series from creators Jenz Lund and D.H. Shultis about a struggling farm thats taken over by killer pumpkins. This comic series combines brilliant, classic comic book style with some serious gore, making it perfect for any fan of  80s campy horror movies! If this series were to be made into a live action film, I think Tromo would be the perfect distribution studio.

Cool Projects #8

Take a look at these great projects that we think you'd be in to. Let us know about any great projects you think we should mention here in future "Cool Projects" posts, be it books, comics, movies, games, or anything that might appeal to our audience!!

Mech Cadet Yu- Boom Studios

Boom Studios presents 'Mech Cadet Yu' Vol. 1 Discover Now Edition, to be released in early 2018, alongside monthly issue #5. Vol. 1 collects the first 4 issues of the acclaimed story of Stanford Yu, who is recruited into the Mech Cadets. Once a year the The cadets are joined by giant robots to defend the planet from evil aliens called the Sharg. At the time of posting, I've yet to dig in to this series, but between the writing team and Miyazawa's art, very reminiscent of an anime style, I'm intrigued by this story of this boy and his robot buddy. 

This special edition, written by an amazing writing team of Grek Pak and Takeshi Miyazawa will only be available in comic shops, with a regular TPB edition being released later in the spring. The series has been so well recieved by readers, that  "Given the tremendous response to 'Mech Cadet Yu' from retailers, fans and press, we’ve decided to release a collection of the series much earlier than usual,” said Filip Sablik, President of Publishing and Marketing, BOOM! Studios. Be sure to keep an eye out for this book and series, and stay tuned to Boom Studios at www.boom-studios.com for the latest info on 'Mech Cadet Yu' and the other great titles they have to offer.

Q&A With Author and Aerospace Engineer Andrew Rader

Are you into space exploration? Are your children into space exploration? If so, I have someone you should meet...

By chance, I connected via social media with aerospace engineer, Andrew Rader, who also happens to be an author. An author of childrens books. Not just your run of the mill kids books, but educational kids books. Mr. Rader uses his knowledge of space and science and brings us smart, yet entertaining books about exploration, suitable for the whole family. The first being 'Epic Space Adventure: Mars Rover Rescue'.

Cool Projects #7

Since its Halloween season, I find it only fitting to share some horror related stuff in the 'Cool Stuff' posts. 

Never Hike Alone: Friday the 13th Fanfilm- Womp Stomp Films

First and foremost is a great fanfilm paying tribute to one of the great iconic film series, in the history of the genre, Friday The 13th. The series featuring the hockey mask wearing Jason Vorhees, is quite possibly the most recognizable villain of all slasher films. 

Cool Projects #6

Hey everyone, I feel I owe an explanation for my lack of posts here since Crypticon. Unfortunately, I've had a series of health issues stemming from a heart failure event a few years back. My life has been consumed by doctor visits, and even a recent stay in the hospital. Things are looking a lot better, so no need to worry. Sadly, the issues prevented me from posting anything here at thestevestrout.com. This in turn has also prevented me to attend and cover any conventions due to financial issues rooting from the health issues and a lighter work load. That's basically the gist of things. If you miss seeing me around at shows, feel free to help us attend by contributing via the donation button on this site, and tell your local conventions that you want us there covering their show!

But anyways...lets get back into the swing of things and introduce ya to a few cool projects!

MORBID HEARTS- Susanne Lambdin

When I attended Crypticon last May, a few great creators submitted some stuff to possibly be given a shout out here at thestevestrout.com. Morbid Hearts, by Susanne Lambdin, is one such project. I wouldn't really call it a project though, as Susan is an acclaimed author. She even penned an episode of Star Trek TNG. 

Crypticon Seattle Photo Recap

These photos are coming at you almost four months after the fact, but unfortunately I've been dealing with some personal, which I hope are about sorted so we can get things back on track here at ww.thestevestrout.com. Sorry. I've missed you, my friends!!

Crypticon Seattle Preview #2

It's almost Crypticon time, so here comes another batch of a few friends of this site who'll be on hand at Crypticon. Some are vendors, some artists, and a guest or two that have interacted here with us at thestevestrout.com...Check out Crypticon Preview #2! Hope to see you at Crypticon!

Sakura Con Recap w/ Haylee Troncone

SakuraCon formerly known as BakaCon took place last weekend (April 14th-16) over Easter. SakuraCon celebrated its 20th anniversary this year as two cosplayers, Haylee Troncone Cosplay and A-Baby Cosplay, celebrated their 10th year attending. SakuraCon is the largest Anime convention in the North West showcasing Japanese culture, manga, animation, fashion, music and most importantly, food.

Crypticon Seattle 2017 Preview #1

Crypticon is right around the corner, May 5-7 to be precise, so as a mini preview, I thought it would be a good idea to introduce you all to a few friends of this site who'll be on hand at Crypticon. Some are vendors, some artists, and a guest or two that have interacted here with us at thestevestrout.com...Hope to see you at Crypticon!

Highlights From Star Wars Celebration Weekend...No I Wasn't There!

For those of you, who like us, weren't on hand at Star Wars Celebration this weekend, luckily we were able to watch a lot of the convention online.

If you missed out on the live streams, don't fret. I've round up some links to a few big panels for you to enjoy.

Review: Mystery Science Theater 3000: The Return

Mystery Science Theater 3000 has returned and haven't missed a beat. The cult favorite series, created by Joel Hodgson, brings a new cast of characters portrayed by the likes of Felicia Day, Patton Oswalt, and Jonah Ray to name a few, with our old favorite misfit robot crew (Crow T. Robot, Tom Servo, and Gypsy) back to poke fun at some really bad sci-fi films floating around in the public domain.

I just dove in and finished the first episode, REPTILICUS, about a giant Kaiju-esque lizard on a rampage in Copenhagen of all places. It's full of the terrible effects and acting as we've come to expect in an MST3K film. I must say, these writers haven't missed a beat with their brilliant riffing on these bad sci-fi movies.

Guest Post: Do Comic Movies Impact Book Sales? by Josh Cook

Do Comic Movies Impact Comic Book Sales?

The short answer is yes, of course. You can't have billions of dollars in comic book properties selling all over the world without having some of that fall into the actual books themselves. But, is that all there is to the story?

One of the craziest things I've ever heard is that there is no way of universally tracking comic book sales. When I was younger, I didn't believe, but lo and behold, it's actually true. In an age where you can get real time notifications of almost every transaction on the planet, we can't get somebody to count comic sales? Well, it's not quite that simple, but I've veered off course here.

Since Wrestlemania weekend just wrapped, check out these recent wrestling themed comics...

Since I'm a wrestling fan, and the biggest weekend in wrestling (Wrestlemania) just wrapped, I think it's a great time to share a few pro wrestling themed comics that you should check out. 

Image Comics' RINGSIDE by Joe Keatinge and Nick Barber
Joe Keatinge best sums up the series:
"RINGSIDE is an ongoing series set within the world of professional wrestling combining the ensemble drama of THE WALKING DEAD with interconnected rotating perspectives akin to The Wire. Each issue will explore the relationship between art and industry from the view of the wrestlers themselves, the creatives they work with, the suits in charge and the fans cheering them all on.
But that's just the beginning.

The real violence is outside the ring."
We interviewed Keatinge and Barber a while back about Ringside. Check it out HERE

Headlocked by Michael Kingston with guest stories and art from a who's who in the professional wrestling world. 
Mike Kingston describes HEADLOCKED as:
"An HBO-style drama about a kid breaking into the wrestling business. As he's attempting to learn the art and the craft of wrestling, he's got to navigate the seedy underbelly of the business in his quest to get to the bright lights and the big stage."
I personally consider this book a pretty realistic account of the in's and outs of the wrestling world, and definitely worth a shot. Mike Kingston is another great creator we interviewed recently. ICYMI, you can check it out HERE ...Headlocked is also currently on a tour to promote the Kickstarter for the next book in the series. Hope you consider contributing to this awesome project, which can be found here>>>  https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/headlockedcomic/headlocked-the-hard-way

Boom Studios' WWE Then- Now- Forever by Dennis Hopeless and a variety of amazing artists.
   
In the first story arc, WWE Then-Now-Forever chronicles the breakup of the Shield (Roman Reigns, Dean Ambrose, Seth Rollins) faction, and the rise of Seth Rollins, under the tutelage of HHH. It offers a behind the scenes look at Seth Rollins and HHH's relationship as we saw on WWE tv programming, while keeping a comic book vibe to the series, having HHH be not only a heel boss, but more of a comic book supervillain. Definitely a fun read! You can tell Dennis Hopeless did his research, and is actually a fan of the business. The superb art added to the script makes this a must read for a wrestling fan or regular comic book reader.

 Have you read any of these comics? What did you think? How about Wrestlemania? Did you watch Wrestlemania or any of the huge pro wrestling events that happened over the weekend? Did you enjoy the show(s)? Come discuss with us at the official fan page for this site, Comic Book Swap Meet on Facebook and @thestevestrout on Twitter!!

Steve Strout is the media mastermind behind this site, host of the Comic Book Swap Meet, nerd, terrible artist, gamer, convention goer and comic book reader who spends more time rescuing toys from thrift shops than a normal adult should. He is also known around the northwest for his promotion of live music and stand-up comedy events and is the creator/producer of the Comic Book Swap Meet mini convention, and Olympic Peninsula Comedy Competition (which will make it's big return in 2015). Follow him on Instagram at http://instagram.com/thestevestrout, and  He can be reached for comments at ptcomedy@yahoo.com on twitter at @thestevestrout

We did a mini review of Top Cow Comic's Think Tank : Animal #1 and chat with writer, Matt Hawkins about Think Tank and more...

As mentioned in the ECCC recap, I'll be posting about a few comics I was introduced to at the show...

This next offering is from the Top Cow Comics creative team of Matt Hawkins and Rashan Ekedal, Think Tank: Animal #1. This issue kicks off volume 5 of the Think Tank ongoing series, which though I'm not familiar, I was able to easily jump into this book with no background.

Image Comics' PLASTIC Preview: Q&A w/ Writer Doug Wagner

Another interesting book I was introduced to at ECCC was the upcoming Image release, Plastic. I had the opportunity to chat with the writer/ creator of Plastic, Doug Wagner. He gave me some info on the story and shared a few sample pages from the book. If you're into horror, crime drama, and have a really weird sense of humor, this book is probably right up your alley. It looks like Image has come through with a killer (pun completely intended) comic once again.

ECCC 2017 Recap

Another year at Emerald City Comic Con has come and gone, and this year I decided to take a more laid back approach to the show coverage, but still share a ton of fun pictures with my people (That's you guys!).  I also connected with a few comic creators that have some really cool projects out or in the works that we'll post about in the coming weeks. Stay tuned 

ECCC Preview: Q&A w/ Headlocked creator, Mike Kingston

If you know me at all, you know that pro wrestling has always held a place in my heart, so when I was introduced to this comic book about pro wrestling, Headlocked, I had to dig in. When I met the creator, Mike Kingston last year at ECCC and heard about all the contributors to the series, I was sold. Mike brought in the who's who of the wrestling world to contribute, from Mick Foley, Jerry Lawler (who was on hand last year at ECCC to promote the book), CM Punk, this years guest Ric Flair, and so many more.

I must have been an honor for him to work with these stars, as much as I'm honored to shared this Q&A with Mr. Kingston! Enjoy and say hi at ECCC if you see me!

Headlocked Jerry Lawler cover...photo courtesy of
www.facebook.com/headlockedcomic

TheSteveStrout: For any fans who may not be familiar with this series, how would you pitch Headlocked to them?

TV Review: DC and NBC's Powerless

Powerless is the latest network show from DC Comics, though not your typical comic book program, due to not really being a superhero show, but more of a parody of the superhero universe.