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General Chat => Books & Comics => Topic started by: Colin YNWA on 18 March, 2014, 06:25:31 AM

Title: Matt 'the other' Wagner
Post by: Colin YNWA on 18 March, 2014, 06:25:31 AM
I've just finished reading the 40 issue ongoing series of Grendel from Comico back in the day and was going to simply sing its praises over at the 'What I've been reading' thread. Thinking on though having finished it I couldn't help dwelling on how Matt Wagner has a lot of fans on the board (I think) and how he deserves a go at getting a thread dedicated to his work.

Grendel was quite, quite brilliant. When Wagner started the series he hit upon a wonderful way to sustain it beyond the original incarnation of the character. Its one that's been done a lot since but I'm not sure how much before hand? Grendel became an entity that possessed different people, the devil incarnate. Thus this ongoing was in fact a series of ongoing mini-series. It starts with a quite stunning examination of hate, anger and desperation with Christine Sparr hunting her missing son and springs to boundless other ideas examining similar themes from there.

The format enabled the inspired Matt Wagner to really take the shackles off and run rampant with experimentation. As with 2000ad not all of it worked, the vast majority does, but even when it doesn't you're glad you've read it and had the chance to judge. Its really is a fantastic examination in what a comic can do with a core concept, some flexible, open themes and the ambition of a young creative mind not willing to settle for the norm.

Oh and its a bloody engaging exciting read to.

So yeah that's just Grendel. Alongside his work on Mage a glorious autobiography of sorts and some of the best mainstream superhero work out there when he's delved that way I have now decided that Matt Wagner has joined that other Wagner in my top five comic writers of all time. He truly deserves to sit alongside the greats (in no order) John Wagner, Grant Morrison, John Smith and Jack Kirby as the best creators I have ever read and when you think about some of the astonishing talent not in that list (I might start a favourite writers thread since I had some thoughts on this after finishing Grendel - and we love lists don't we!) that is no mean claim.

So yeah if anyone fancies lets all sit down, flex our fingers and type in praise of one of comics greats. Arguably the most under-rated of them all Matt Wagner.
Title: Re: Matt 'the other' Wagner
Post by: The Adventurer on 18 March, 2014, 06:48:17 AM
I'm primarily aware of Matt Wagner via Mage, of what I've read of it I liked it a lot. Though I hear its incomplete, and the final chapter long delayed.
Title: Re: Matt 'the other' Wagner
Post by: Colin YNWA on 18 March, 2014, 07:06:26 AM
Quote from: The Adventurer on 18 March, 2014, 06:48:17 AM
I'm primarily aware of Matt Wagner via Mage, of what I've read of it I liked it a lot. Though I hear its incomplete, and the final chapter long delayed.

Its made of three stories 'Hero Discovered' and 'Hero Defined' are both out and complete and quite superb on their own. He has always planned a third arc 'Hero Denied' and while that's not out yet it doesn't really affect how the other two work. Rather its just great to know we can expect more.

All that said he's made a LOT of mumbling lately about how its the next thing he's going to work on. So fingers crossed not to far off.
Title: Re: Matt 'the other' Wagner
Post by: I, Cosh on 18 March, 2014, 01:36:11 PM
I remember this being on Comics Should be Good's "Comics you should read" feature and I've been thinking about picking up some of the Grendel omnibi for a while. I've only ever read the War Child mini and I quite enjoyed that at the time, although I'm guessing some of the earlier stuff is going to be significantly different in tone.
Title: Re: Matt 'the other' Wagner
Post by: Colin YNWA on 18 March, 2014, 02:16:04 PM
To be honest there are some wonderful difference in tone in the series itself. I have the first and last omnibi (I'll trust your spelling on that one, it'll be no surprise that I never know the plural for omnibus!) as they cover material not in the series I have.

They are done in chronological order of events in series time. So new material reflecting back old events in the series are in Book 1 which will make for a very interesting read. While I normally don't like to do this as you never know what one person will like however much of a cross-over in taste you think you have (I still adore those Human Target stories you sold me!) I can't honest recommend much with more hope than any of the omnibus volumes as they represent great value and the material is just first rate. Omnibus 2 for example collects the materials at the start of the series I've just read and while the art might take some getting used to... I personally came to really appreciate it but it might be worth looking before you buy as it is... interesting... that would be as good a place to start as any.
Title: Re: Matt 'the other' Wagner
Post by: Colin YNWA on 18 February, 2015, 09:55:04 PM
Okay so I can't sucker you mooks into Matt Wagner conversation then huh - well never let it be said I'm a man to take a hint. I'm not that's for damned sure and so if you take the low road and refuse to worship at the altar of the other Wagner I'll take the high road and witter on regardless*

Matt Wagner is writing The Spirit. I had a little sticky nerd wee I'm so excited.

http://www.bleedingcool.com/2015/02/18/matt-wagner-write-will-eisners-spirit-dynamite/ (http://www.bleedingcool.com/2015/02/18/matt-wagner-write-will-eisners-spirit-dynamite/)


*Hey just be grateful I didn't post this on two threads AND give it a thread of its own!
Title: Re: Matt 'the other' Wagner
Post by: Fungus on 18 February, 2015, 10:08:30 PM
Should be fantastic. No artist announced, so who would do this justice...? What's Dave Gibbons up to ? :)

And Grendel. A great series. Have read a few collected things but back in the early days it ran for a spell with a lot of political content and incorporating text-heavy blocks and small panels. Sounds dull, but read like a dream. Changed his style around so much, and to great effect.
Title: Re: Matt 'the other' Wagner
Post by: Hawkmumbler on 18 February, 2015, 10:19:14 PM
Still need to nab them Grendel omnibuses. But I looove Matt's The Shadow material and his crossover with the aforementioned thief was superb. I'm down for his take on The Spirit as well.
Title: Re: Matt 'the other' Wagner
Post by: Jim_Campbell on 18 February, 2015, 10:28:05 PM
Yeah. Grendel. So much good stuff, the restless reinvention, the genuine attempts to push at the edges of the medium. Maybe it doesn't hold up so well now — I haven't read much of it since the original publication, but this was a genuinely brilliant series at the time.

Cheers

Jim
Title: Re: Matt 'the other' Wagner
Post by: Bolt-01 on 19 February, 2015, 02:01:03 PM
I'm a massive Wagner fan, so the Spirit could well be a good run- his work with Seagle on the '30's Sandman Mystery Theatre was a cracking little read.

Think that Grendel should be left alone now- the recent mining of Hunter Rose really dilutes the character IMO (though I've not managed to read the shadow crossover yet, I've got a download waiting for me) and I'd really like to see him get back to the Matchstick saga.
Title: Re: Matt 'the other' Wagner
Post by: Proteus4 on 20 February, 2015, 05:59:21 AM
Quote from: The Cosh on 18 March, 2014, 01:36:11 PM
I remember this being on Comics Should be Good's "Comics you should read" feature and I've been thinking about picking up some of the Grendel omnibi for a while. I've only ever read the War Child mini and I quite enjoyed that at the time, although I'm guessing some of the earlier stuff is going to be significantly different in tone.

The plural of omnibus is omnibuses

The Latin word Omnibus is already a dative plural, It is derived from omnis. In English it is an adjective used as a noun. It follows that the plural of the anglicised form adheres to the rules of English and not Latin.

Grendel sounds cool - I'm away to see if I can get one cheap on eBay.
Dave :)
Title: Re: Matt 'the other' Wagner
Post by: Colin YNWA on 20 February, 2015, 06:29:02 AM
Quote from: Bolt-01 on 19 February, 2015, 02:01:03 PM.

Think that Grendel should be left alone now- the recent mining of Hunter Rose really dilutes the character IMO (though I've not managed to read the shadow crossover yet, I've got a download waiting for me)

I read the omnibus (thanks to Proteus 4 for the plural info) which dealt with all the Hunter Rose material (apart form the crossovers) and while there were bits that felt like it was digging too deep by and large it really worked. The Batman crossover makes it way slowly up my read pile and The Shadow one I'll pick up when the collection is out in July (I think it is) so I can talk to them.

Yeah the only downside of The Spirit stuff is it might push a return to Mage back. He said a year or so ago that was next on his list after he'd done The Shadow stuff.
Title: Re: Matt 'the other' Wagner
Post by: Colin YNWA on 14 August, 2015, 08:24:39 PM
Just as Grendel this thread will rise in new and different incarnations.

Just finished Grendel Omnibus and its by far the weakest of the 4 (though I've only actually read volume 1 - the contents of volumes 2 and 3 I've read in the original comics). The tale of Grendal Prime feels a little more straight forward that some of the other work. That said its still bloody brilliant. War Child is on the surface a great Sci-Fi adventure, full of character and consequence, there certainly a little more too it but it requires more digging out I found.

Greg Rucka's novella after this is pretty weak until the end. It felt like fairly rudimentally written action adventure. The books strongest part is alas its shortest Devil Quest. Written and drawn by Wagner its really very good and gets close to some of the power and experimentation of the earlier stuff. Over all this was both disappointing but also very revealing. Weak Wagner is still very good comics.

Now to the crossovers when next this thread will rise...
Title: Re: Matt 'the other' Wagner
Post by: Hawkmumbler on 14 August, 2015, 08:39:23 PM
As you can probably tell by my change of avatar, i've not long since finished the first omnibus collecting the entire Hunter Rose saga. And chuffing good comics it is as well. A superb noir tale handsomly crafted and illustrated by Wagner, with gorgeous and ripe visuals and a fantastic amount and intruige and depth of character and story arc.

Colin, I can not vouch for the Batman crossovers though they do LOOK amazing, but the Shadow mini was phenomenal last I read. An all round great mystery title.
Title: Re: Matt 'the other' Wagner
Post by: Colin YNWA on 14 July, 2017, 10:01:47 PM
Well with Mage coming back I thught I'd dust this off. as I think I might use it to splash my nerd delight at the new Mage series rather than get the Comic Book Day Megathread all sticky.
Title: Re: Matt 'the other' Wagner
Post by: The Adventurer on 14 July, 2017, 10:38:13 PM
How'd Matt Wagner's The Spirit Returns run end up? Worth a read?
Title: Re: Matt 'the other' Wagner
Post by: Colin YNWA on 15 July, 2017, 07:54:28 AM
Quote from: The Adventurer on 14 July, 2017, 10:38:13 PM
How'd Matt Wagner's The Spirit Returns run end up? Worth a read?

It was absolutely spot on and is available as part of the Eisner Kirby Wonder Humble Bundle currently available. Like a few items there makes that Bundle worth it on its todd.
Title: Re: Matt 'the other' Wagner
Post by: Colin YNWA on 29 August, 2017, 08:48:20 PM
I hadn't been dripping my sticky Wagner love into its own thread last time I read Matt Wagner's Trinity but just finished a quick re-read this evening and heavens to Betsy its magnificent. I find his two Bats minis (Monster Men and Mad Monk) a little pedestrian for this titan of comics but Trinity is quite sublime.

I checked back on what I said when I first read it and it all holds true (except me not checking out Grendal which I've well and truly put right) so I'll just be lazy and copy that here.

QuoteJust finished 'Trinity' by Matt Wagner this morning. Now I love me some Matt Wagner (why oh why I haven't checked out Grendal yet I'll never know) but this is something else again. Seriously if you were looking for the definitive Batman, Superman, Wonder Woman story this is it. For reasons that escape me it seems lost in the shadows of such books from around the time (ish) of its release as 'Kingdom Come'  and 'New Frontier' (which is excellent don't get me wrong) but it really should be outshining them.

To take such iconic characters about whom so many stories have been written and make them seem fresh and new is truly a feat to behold.

Glorious comics.
Title: Re: Matt 'the other' Wagner
Post by: Smith on 30 August, 2017, 09:22:12 AM
Recently finished his Spirit.Good series.
Title: Re: Matt 'the other' Wagner
Post by: Tiplodocus on 18 November, 2017, 03:43:43 PM
Just picked up Trinity today at Killie Comic Con on the strength of this recommendation. Fingers crossed.
Title: Re: Matt 'the other' Wagner
Post by: Colin YNWA on 19 November, 2017, 08:37:44 PM
Quote from: Tiplodocus on 18 November, 2017, 03:43:43 PM
Just picked up Trinity today at Killie Comic Con on the strength of this recommendation. Fingers crossed.

Gulp having waxed so lyrical about it I really hope you enjoy it as much as me...

... meanwhile as I have whittered on the glory that is the Mega Comicbook Day thread, Mage - Hero Denied continues to be sublime.
Title: Re: Matt 'the other' Wagner
Post by: Tiplodocus on 21 November, 2017, 10:31:42 AM
Well it won me over with the first six pages where Clark Kent fails to catch a train and then Superman HAS to catch a train. Simple but genius at the same time.
Title: Re: Matt 'the other' Wagner
Post by: Tiplodocus on 28 November, 2017, 06:31:22 PM
I did enjoy that. Love the art style... plays right into my love of Batman animated series.

The ending was slightly disappointing what with all the meticulous set up of the Metropolis and Gotham parts (I know they weren't  really but that was the splash that started the issues) and I couldn't help but laugh at Racer Cool literally driving a double cock and balls at Themyscyra.

I was never a big fan of the Lazarus pit (unless It's a thematic or metaphorical one)... But it's hard to do a Rhas story without one. And there was the odd clunky bit of basil used when addressing plot holes ("How did X know Y was there?).

Only other misfire for me was Bats being smitten by paradise but I suppose that does actually give him the possibility of a happy ending in some future.

But yeah, great stuff.
Title: Re: Matt 'the other' Wagner
Post by: Colin YNWA on 28 November, 2017, 07:43:46 PM
That's good to hear. As you say I'm not sure I've ever seen a Ra Za story without Da (Gravel) Pit ... see what I did there I made a very tenuous Wu Tang joke...

... it was so worth it.
Title: Re: Matt 'the other' Wagner
Post by: Colin YNWA on 25 May, 2018, 09:06:32 PM
Just finished a re-read of Matt Wagner's Zorro run and it really is superb. It has some really nice smart moments and does some nice playful things with the way it tells its story. I'm particularly fond of the final arc from the original 20 issue run (issues 15-20). The end did feel a little rushed, Zorro Returns feels like it did quite get to explore the themes it wanted to as fully as it might. After the [spoiler]death of Zorro's father [/spoiler] I think there was an extra arc about how this affected Zorro waiting in the wings and never told. It would have fleshed out the final arc so much more.

Mind in dewelling on that it would have lost sight of one of the things that it remembers so well. That being that Zorro is about fun and enjoy, swashbuckling and adventure at its heart and this is a joy to read.

Well aided by two great artists in Francesco Francivilla and John K Synder III in the final arc (the art around these two isn't so good) really raise this all up a notch too.

So yeah if you fancy some high adventure comics these can't come recommended highly enough.
Title: Re: Matt 'the other' Wagner
Post by: Colin YNWA on 03 January, 2019, 10:12:07 PM
Well this isn't really Matt Wagner but you'll get why I'm putting this here I'm sure. I pretty much have stuck to Wagner Grendel and not bothered with Grendel Tales written by others. The character is so entrenched with the writer in my mind and frankly there's quite enough Hunter Rose by him for me not to need any more.

The thing is of course one of the great bits of genius behind Grendel is the way Wagner expanded the world far beyond Hunter Rose - and this stuff is my favourite of it all. And 'Grendel Tales The Devil in our Midst' this more than supports others having time and place to explore. I stumbled across this simply as I love Paul Grist's art (off Bolt maybe??) and I'm very glad I did.

Set in the far future long after Hunter Rose in a time when Grendel has become an order, a way of life, a controlling force not just a man. A Grendel finds himself slap bang in the middle of The Thing (well kinda) death and mystery in the isolation of an Artic Base (or is it Antartic?). Its tense, exciting stuff and well worth checking it.

Its also left me with a question as I know there are other Grendel fans in these parts. Is any of the other none Wagner Grendel stuff worth reading? Any other recommendations?
Title: Re: Matt 'the other' Wagner
Post by: Bolt-01 on 04 January, 2019, 08:09:15 AM
Hi Colin- Yeah I read the run of Grendel tales as it came out (they are in the attic now- must get round to a re-read) and from what I remember they are pretty hit & miss. There were some really good strips but overall it felt like Dark horse were trying for a 'Legends of the Batman' series.

From memory, the last of the regular runs was drawn by Peter Doherty.

I've even got a Grendel sketched by Paul Grist!
Title: Re: Matt 'the other' Wagner
Post by: Colin YNWA on 04 January, 2019, 01:04:25 PM
Quote from: Bolt-01 on 04 January, 2019, 08:09:15 AM
... from what I remember they are pretty hit & miss. There were some really good strips but overall it felt like Dark horse were trying for a 'Legends of the Batman' series.

From memory, the last of the regular runs was drawn by Peter Doherty.

I've even got a Grendel sketched by Paul Grist!

Had a feelign that would be the case which is why I've always avoided them - I think there's an omnibus out now but might have a nosey at creative line-ups and cherry pick rather than wade through stuff that won't work for me. That Pete Doherty arcs sounds like a must though.

As for a sketch by Paul Grist that is very cool. I've got a Mudman (oh where oh where is Mudman?) but much as I love Jack Staff if I saw him now I'd get a Grendel too!
Title: Re: Matt 'the other' Wagner
Post by: Fungus on 05 January, 2019, 02:45:29 AM
Grendel Tales was perhaps mimicking Legends of the Batman, it's too long ago to remember. I remember enjoying it a lot. While Wagner was scripting I seem to remember it got very political and to my amazement, just got better and better.

From memory, War Child was pretty good too. Don't pick holes in this if I'm dismembering. It's ancient history now :-)
Title: Re: Matt 'the other' Wagner
Post by: Colin YNWA on 15 March, 2019, 12:34:58 PM
Well what better news could we have to cheer us up after Mage finishing (and what an ending!) why

https://www.bleedingcool.com/2019/03/14/matt-wagner-takes-grendel-on-a-devils-odyssey-at-dark-horse/ (https://www.bleedingcool.com/2019/03/14/matt-wagner-takes-grendel-on-a-devils-odyssey-at-dark-horse/)

more Matt Wagner Grendel that's what!
Title: Re: Matt 'the other' Wagner
Post by: I, Cosh on 04 April, 2019, 09:24:21 AM
Hi Colin. There's a Mage sale  (https://www.comixology.co.uk/comics-sale?list_id=29413) on Comixology until today. I've never read any of it, but I quite like Grendel. What should I get?
Title: Re: Matt 'the other' Wagner
Post by: Colin YNWA on 04 April, 2019, 10:09:07 AM
Quote from: I, Cosh on 04 April, 2019, 09:24:21 AM
Hi Colin. There's a Mage sale  (https://www.comixology.co.uk/comics-sale?list_id=29413) on Comixology until today. I've never read any of it, but I quite like Grendel. What should I get?

I wonder if my answer will be a little predictable but...

...YEESSSSSSS...

All of it. Its different to Grendel in that I don't find it as experimental. Its a bit more of a hero's quest but Matt Wagner is such a master of the form its done sooooo well.
Title: Re: Matt 'the other' Wagner
Post by: Bolt-01 on 04 April, 2019, 03:04:11 PM
Seconded! Mage is the absolute pinnacle for me.
Title: Re: Matt 'the other' Wagner
Post by: Colin YNWA on 24 July, 2019, 01:22:42 PM
GRENDAL'S BACK - OH YEAH, HE'S BACK!!!!

QuoteGrendel: Devil's Odyssey #1 (of 8)

Matt Wagner (W/A/Cover), Brennan Wagner (C), and Fabio Moon (Variant Cover)

On sale Oct 2
FC, 32 pages
$3.99
Miniseries

Grendel Prime searches the stars for a new home for mankind, and Matt Wagner returns to his darkest creation! As civilization comes to an end on Earth, the final Grendel Khan gives Grendel Prime a new directive: Find a perfect planet to be the new home for the human race. But will the deadly and relentless paladin ultimately save humanity . . . or destroy it?

• Grendel Prime continues the legacy in a space adventure!
Title: Re: Matt 'the other' Wagner
Post by: Hawkmumbler on 24 July, 2019, 01:28:08 PM
THATS MADE MY DAY!

I hope this means the OOP Omnibuses are due a reprint, I still need to pick up The Shadow/Grendel and Grendel Tales Omnibuses too.
Title: Re: Matt 'the other' Wagner
Post by: Bolt-01 on 24 July, 2019, 02:10:44 PM
...drools...

Really need to post a pic of the Grendel figurines Mrs Bolt got me for my Bday the other year. A beautiful bit o' tat.
Title: Re: Matt 'the other' Wagner
Post by: Rately on 24 July, 2019, 02:52:51 PM
That Fabio Moon cover is lovely.

I am really looking forward to this.

And I really, really need to get around to Mage.
Title: Re: Matt 'the other' Wagner
Post by: Bolt-01 on 03 October, 2019, 01:26:12 PM
(https://images-na.ssl-images-amazon.com/images/S/cmx-images-prod/Item/801582/801582._SX360_QL80_TTD_.jpg)

On ComiXology NOW! (https://www.comixology.co.uk/Grendel-Devils-Odyssey-1/digital-comic/801582?tid=E191002001&utm_source=comiXology+Digital+Comics+Newsletters&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=E191002001_New_Release_Email)

Title: Re: Matt 'the other' Wagner
Post by: Colin YNWA on 03 October, 2019, 03:59:40 PM
God Matt Wagner is good, so very good.

I'd love to see him do Dredd.
Title: Re: Matt 'the other' Wagner
Post by: Rately on 04 October, 2019, 08:26:18 AM
Usually wait nowadays for the digital collections, but I've subscribed to this on Comixology, and looking forward to getting home and reading the first issue.

Matt Wagner makes the best comics.
Title: Re: Matt 'the other' Wagner
Post by: Hawkmumbler on 04 October, 2019, 10:20:43 AM
Aye, that was some bloody good stuff! Always happy for more Grendel!
Title: Re: Matt 'the other' Wagner
Post by: Colin YNWA on 06 October, 2019, 02:13:48 PM
Got it, read it, love it. Its really quite brilliant. The only disappointment is when Grendal Prime loses his space helmet. He looked so cool in  his clear space helmet. I know it served no pupose but looking cool is important in comics.

Onto more important matters. The idea of space Grendal cast away from a dead human race to start a new Grendal clone humanity engaging with aliens to see if they will be suitable partners just feels so rich and full of potential. Throw into that mix a fight with a giant alien space insectoid and this just oozes a master of his form, knowing how to make great story.

Brilliant.
Title: Re: Matt 'the other' Wagner
Post by: Link Prime on 30 October, 2019, 04:12:35 PM
Quote from: Colin YNWA on 06 October, 2019, 02:13:48 PM
Got it, read it, love it. Its really quite brilliant.

Have to agree with Colin, as per usual.
A strong start and welcome return to both the character of Grendel Prime and Wagner.
It's a blank slate setting for the next 7 months, which I'm quite looking forward to.
Title: Re: Matt 'the other' Wagner
Post by: karlos on 06 November, 2019, 03:02:47 PM
Any news on when we can expect a HC of Mage: The Hero Denied?
Title: Re: Matt 'the other' Wagner
Post by: Smith on 08 January, 2020, 08:09:17 AM
So far Devils Odyssey has been great. Vivat Grendel!
Title: Re: Matt 'the other' Wagner
Post by: Colin YNWA on 06 October, 2020, 09:04:03 PM
Has it really been so long. We are neglecting 'The Other' Wagner (no, not Kurt). Well to be fair Grendel 'Devil's Odyssesy' has dropped off the radar since the pandemic started (don't know if its related), hope all is well with Matt Wagner?

ANYWAY neglect him no nor I've just finished a re-read of his 12 issues 'The Spirit' run with Dan Schkade and by heck its an absolute joy. So often when folks take on The Spirit they seem to succumb to the temptation to fiddle and fidget with the character. To adapt him to the modern audience, make him fit with the times. Always strikes me as a waste of energy he's charming and timeless and works for the ages, like Zorro, Robin Hood and the like.

Matt Wagner gets this and just fills his series with a story that explores the many tones and ideas that Will Eisner reveled in and he does it so well. Its cheeky, its charming and it bloody good craft. Just a fantastic series. Dan Schkade does a solid job on the visuals.

And speaking of visuals on The Spirit I also re-read Francesco Francavilla's 'The Spirit - The Corpse-Makers'. As might be expected woth Francavilla its a visual treat. He really indulges with the storytelling and page design. Its an absolute feast on the eyes. Even if he does choice to soak in the atmosphere of a dark rainy Central City a little to much. It also means the story is a little slight. Fun but so dominated my the visual fun FF has it never has the chance to really go far.

Unlike Wagner - who we are here to celebrate after all - who uses his 12 issues to really explores the scope of the great character and the world he roams. Both are real treats, its just no surprise to learn that Matt Wagner's work is all the more so.

Oh and meant to say that we won't be leaving this thread for very long as a re-read of Mage (all of it!) has hit the top of my pile and will be completed in the next month or so. Bolt01 fancy reading along with me???
Title: Re: Matt 'the other' Wagner
Post by: Bolt-01 on 07 October, 2020, 08:50:25 AM
Hey Colin, that's in interesting idea. I've not read the original Mage strips in many a year (I'm lucky to have the lush Graffitti designs books of those) so this might just be the excuse I need to revisit some old friends.
Title: Re: Matt 'the other' Wagner
Post by: Colin YNWA on 07 October, 2020, 08:57:38 AM
I'm going with the over-sized 'Starblaze' collections (are they the same ones?) for Hero Discovered. They are absolutely objects of beauty.
Title: Re: Matt 'the other' Wagner
Post by: Bolt-01 on 07 October, 2020, 09:07:51 AM
Yes! They are. Stunning books!

My editions of Defined are in the original floppies and Denied are all digital.

Being dead lazy - was the Spirit run collected? I've not picked that up.
Title: Re: Matt 'the other' Wagner
Post by: Colin YNWA on 07 October, 2020, 09:30:42 AM
Quote from: Bolt-01 on 07 October, 2020, 09:07:51 AM
Yes! They are. Stunning books!

My editions of Defined are in the original floppies and Denied are all digital.

Yep I'm three oversized trades - Discovered and floppies for the other two. I actually love the fact that you have three different formats for the three different phases of the the story. It seems super fitting!

Quote from: Bolt-01 on 07 October, 2020, 09:07:51 AM
Being dead lazy - was the Spirit run collected? I've not picked that up.

Its has and speaking of being lazy I've just gone for the Amazon listing. I know you can get this digitally as I've seen it in sales and in a Humble Bundle once.

https://www.amazon.co.uk/Will-Eisners-Spirit-Who-Killed/dp/1606908413/ref=sr_1_1?dchild=1&keywords=the+spirit+matt+wagner&qid=1602059275&sr=8-1 (https://www.amazon.co.uk/Will-Eisners-Spirit-Who-Killed/dp/1606908413/ref=sr_1_1?dchild=1&keywords=the+spirit+matt+wagner&qid=1602059275&sr=8-1)
Title: Re: Matt 'the other' Wagner
Post by: Bolt-01 on 07 October, 2020, 09:51:31 AM
Ordered!
Title: Re: Matt 'the other' Wagner
Post by: skurvy on 07 October, 2020, 01:08:02 PM
I might join in if that's ok. I love Matt Wagner's work and I haven't read those early Mage comics for years.
Title: Re: Matt 'the other' Wagner
Post by: Link Prime on 07 October, 2020, 02:54:39 PM
Quote from: Colin YNWA on 06 October, 2020, 09:04:03 PM
Well to be fair Grendel 'Devil's Odyssesy' has dropped off the radar since the pandemic started (don't know if its related), hope all is well with Matt Wagner?

Not the only Dark Horse book to be significantly delayed due to the pandemic - the first issue of Norse Mythology should have shipped months ago, but I only received a notification this week that it's in my pull box.

Slim pickins for decent new comics out there, so a real shame that the superb Devils Odyssey stopped halfway through its run.
Hoping for the remaining issues to be released next year.
Title: Re: Matt 'the other' Wagner
Post by: Colin YNWA on 08 October, 2020, 06:46:19 AM
Quote from: skurvy on 07 October, 2020, 01:08:02 PM
I might join in if that's ok. I love Matt Wagner's work and I haven't read those early Mage comics for years.

Of course thought I need to make clear this is nothing more than Mage reaching the top of my re-read pile and I'll be reading ti and commenting here over the next month or two. The more folks who decide to do the same the better as I love a bit of Matt 'The Other' Wagner chat.
Title: Re: Matt 'the other' Wagner
Post by: Rately on 08 October, 2020, 10:13:41 AM
Off to purchase Mage i go!
Title: Re: Matt 'the other' Wagner
Post by: skurvy on 08 October, 2020, 12:54:33 PM
Quote from: Colin YNWA on 08 October, 2020, 06:46:19 AM
Quote from: skurvy on 07 October, 2020, 01:08:02 PM
I might join in if that's ok. I love Matt Wagner's work and I haven't read those early Mage comics for years.

Of course thought I need to make clear this is nothing more than Mage reaching the top of my re-read pile and I'll be reading ti and commenting here over the next month or two. The more folks who decide to do the same the better as I love a bit of Matt 'The Other' Wagner chat.

Sure, and it also requires me going into the loft and digging through my long boxes - I'm sure it will be worth it though. I think I have a Terminator one-shot he did up there too.
Title: Re: Matt 'the other' Wagner
Post by: Bolt-01 on 08 October, 2020, 06:17:25 PM
That has a fantastic 'pop-up' gimmick, too.
Title: Re: Matt 'the other' Wagner
Post by: Colin YNWA on 24 October, 2020, 09:17:50 PM
Well I've only read the first part, so what would have been Mage issue 1 - of Hero Discovered and somethings struck me already. That being what a confident start Matt Wagner has with this series. I belive up to this point (happy to be corrected here) he's done some bits and bobs with Grendel and one would assume piece around and about, but nothing significent.

Its incredible then just how clear, precise and well constructed this first issue of Mage is. The storytelling so precise, the craft, if not artist technic, fully realised. Man its probably the cockyness of youth (he'd be early 20s when this came out) but its just prefectly times story and just has no fear.

Wow this is already better than I remembered and I remember it getting better as it goes on...
Title: Re: Matt 'the other' Wagner
Post by: Colin YNWA on 28 October, 2020, 10:27:01 PM
Well I've finished book one and an overriding sense of confidence in the form and storytelling is the thing that stays with me as I read this story. In a way that defies Matt Wagner's experience (I assume) at the time it just feels like a tale that the writer knows he can tell, knows he has to tell. From beginning to end it feels solid, perfectly mapped and paced and complete in its intent. Across the 15 parts, as Kevin Matchstick ironically finds his place, his responsibilities, his place in the world and his potential, Matt Wagner shows he has no doubts of any of that for himself.

Given the autobiographical nature of this work its very possible this makes perfect sense. This is the journey Wagner has gone through, to to get to this point. This is his struggle and as at the end of the story Kevin Matchstick has his ability, has confidence in his power, so as this tale reflects on Matchstick's journey to this point, Wagner starts to tell it from the point he has come to that realisation in his talent and abilities.

The other fascinating thing is the way it used typical superhero tropes and images, yet is so clearly a work of myth and legend. It takes the idea that superheroes are the modern heroes of ancient myth and plays it very literally. Giving it just enough of the trapping of the (comics) mainstream genre to pull readers eyes in, but then unleashing the modern re-telling of legend on his unsuspecting audience.

Its not perfect. While the page design and storytelling is immaculate, the actual rendering of the art isn't as strong as it will become. No surprise. His experimenting with colouring for me isn't entirely successful, or possibly has just dated quite badly... oh but that's it. That's all there is to worry about.

What's even more astonishing is not just Matt Wagner's age on writing this in his early 20s, but the time when he was creating it. There was a host new independent titles starting to bubble to the fore, to change what comics would be. Nexus has just started, Zot is about to, Cerebus has just finished its first trimuphant 'phonebook' arc in High Society etc etc. The indie scene is exploding off the back of the mainstream. All well before Watchmen. And Mage catchs that wave at the start, or at least its early days, but does it so much better than most of his contemporaries. Whether he caught the wave, or started it... or at least helped to is probably open to debate. What I think is fair to say is its not had long to shape and influence him directly. I do wonder what it would have been like to read these at the time and how much more astonishing this would have made them?

'Mage - Hero Discovered' is an absolute triumph and if you've not read it do.

On another note I read this in three beautiful oversized volumes from Starblazer. While they lack the back material, design sketchs or even covers that we get used to these days in such collections, the fact that the volumes are stripped down to the pure story is a benefit to the tale - if I'd have loved that back matter personally - and leaves it exposed, clean and wonderfully reproduced. The story having nothing but a simple introduction to hide behind.

And of course it has the confidence to need nothing else.
Title: Re: Matt 'the other' Wagner
Post by: Jim_Campbell on 28 October, 2020, 10:50:28 PM
Quote from: Colin YNWA on 28 October, 2020, 10:27:01 PM
'Mage - Hero Discovered' is an absolute triumph and if you've not read it do.

It absolutely is. Startlingly good at a time when comics were really just starting to be startlingly good.
Title: Re: Matt 'the other' Wagner
Post by: Bolt-01 on 29 October, 2020, 08:56:06 AM
Gah! I've not had chance to read the first arc yet - will dig my books out asap!
Title: Re: Matt 'the other' Wagner
Post by: Colin YNWA on 10 November, 2020, 09:32:50 PM
I'm under the impression that the general perspection of Mage - Hero Defined (the second of the trilogy) wasn't well recieved. Certainly judging by the opening issues letters pages it didn't go down well. I find this surprising, though fair to say I have followed the series in the way other fans have. I picked up 'Discovered' relatively recently (maybe 10 or 12 years ago) and then having read it immediately snapped up Defined and devoured that as well. So i've not been a devoted fan waiting years for these.

At the same time given the biographical nature of the series the fact that there is considerable change between the first two series should be no surprise. The author has changed and so should the readers, I'd have thought? Where I adore Discovered I think this is as good. The art even better. Matt Wagner's style has refined, is technically miles ahead. One issue readers letters have is it lost a lot of the longer self reflective dialogue. I think that's a real bonus, not that it bad in anyway in the first story, rather here is shows a shift Kevin Matchstick and by relation Matt Wagner himself as he reflects on a very different time in his life. A time of confidence, friendship, arrogance and striving to achieve and understand, though blind to that need for understanding.

I love the relationship Matchstick has with the other characters. I love when 'Mirth' is kinda revealed at the end Kevin reverts back to the more wordy introspection, all be it briefly underlining their relationship. I love the playfulness of it all. Its fun in that mid life stage way. Its about self and self discover... its about discovering the other in your life. Its about a different character and different story that the first series and all the better for it.

Not that its better in its craft - though in some ways it is - just that it needs to be different and I'm more than happy to embrace that. I'm not going to say I prefer one or another. Rather I marvel and revel in the differences and Matt Wagners confidence, once again, if exposing and playing with them.

Another masterpiece. Can't wait for Denied coming soon.
Title: Re: Matt 'the other' Wagner
Post by: Colin YNWA on 15 November, 2020, 05:41:00 PM
Just started 'Hero Denied' and this is the only one I picked up month to month. I know this one one brilliant (as they all are of course) but the opening issue 0 - with an older maturer Pendragon happily letting a young braggart of a hero make his splash - while quietly helping him and letting him get safely out AND the opening panel of issue 1 as he sings Elvis Costello's '(What's so funny 'bout) Peace Love and understanding?' quickly mark this as being the best yet!
Title: Re: Matt 'the other' Wagner
Post by: Colin YNWA on 20 November, 2020, 07:50:31 PM
And that's that, Mage - Hero Denied is probably my favourite of the lot.

It speaks to be now, while the other two speak to me then and are fantastic as memories of me. It is also the culmination of years of learning craft by the consummate craftsman. The art is just sublime, bold and strong, yet gentle and able to convey tender moments when it needs to. There is absolutely no fuss. And it tells its story with such clarity and pointed emphasis in a way that reveals where there are still lessons to be learnt in the earlier stories.

Each story fits perfectly into the stage of life its reflecting and each is confident in having a similar arc. Across the three its not about using 45 issues to tell a ranging tale it to allow three reflections on the growth of a man. So the structure and form is deceptively simple. I can well imagine if someone read Discovered at the right stage of their life it would be so hard to accept anything after as its equal. Hence I think Defined gets a hard time my some, but I love it. I however have come to Mage late and as such Denied is really my Mage (though I'd read the other two before this came out) as this is the one I've read at the right time.

That said the fact that I've read the other two 'out of context' speaks to the fact they are fine tales in and of themselves.

So to Denied its a wonderful examination of being a parent, an adult with all the responsiblity and fears that brings with it. All the vulnerabilities that have always been there, but are exposed by age. All the dependancies that you deny (and this is dealt with so well in Defined) in eary life that you accept as you get older. But also how these maturing realisations take something else from you. Diminish you in some old ways, to allow you to grow in others. Its all brilliantly wrapped in here in an exciting compelling retelling of the first story, of fighting monster, trying to save loved one.

The end should crumble under the weight of the cliche its dressed in, but in the context of the themes of family and love it works so much better than it does in so many other tales.

Mage is an absolute success of a series. An incredible achievement to not tell a continuous tale but to tell the life of a man. I can't recommend these stories enough.
Title: Re: Matt 'the other' Wagner
Post by: Colin YNWA on 21 November, 2020, 10:08:36 PM
Meant to also mention next up I've reading Grendel. Over the next four or five months I'll be working my way through the Hunter Rose Omnibus (Dark Horse) the Comico series - which I'm particularly looking forward to as from memory this is the pinacle of the 'series' and one of the best, must developmental comics I've read and then the 4th Dark Horse Omnibus which cover the later works.

Very much looking forward to this. Even if I seem to think the first omnibus gets a little hardwork at time as Hunter Rose has been a bit strip mined beyond its value. We'll see.
Title: Re: Matt 'the other' Wagner
Post by: Colin YNWA on 12 December, 2020, 09:32:14 PM
I love Mage, but its no Grendel. I know others disagree, but for me Grendel is the very best of Matt Wagner and that therefore is the very best of comics.

I've started a re-read of Grendel that will be completed over the next few months. The read for me starts with 'Matt Wagner's Grendel Omnibus Volume 1: Hunter Rose'. Now for me Hunter Rose is the least interesting aspect of Grendel. Which isn't to say these stories aren't exceptional, they are. Just Hunter Rose is the least interesting thing in them. He's to clear cut, too neat, too defined. This is possibly exaggerated in this volume with almost 600 pages examining him and his life in explicit detail. There's a summary of this life in the 'Devil by the Deed' across 40 pages. The next 380ish pages we have a LOAD of short stories, with different artists, examining his world and life, already contain and defined in those opening 40. Finally a 170ish page single story 'about' 2 missing weeks in his life with art by Wagner himself. This is the absolute highlight of the volume.

Read like this, stories that have been told over almost 30 years, it doesn't work... or shouldn't. I don't think Hunter Rose warrants this detail. His story doesn't justify this explicit examination. The 170 pages at the end are probably 70% of what you need. Though fair to say if you'd read these tales as they came out (I didn't) I suspect this wouldn't feel the same at all. Read in a single volume though...

...and yet this is still some of the best comics out there - and I'll return to that - and that is due entirely to Matt Wagner. His utterly relentless invention. His desire to test the medium and the forms it can take to tell the story mean it works entirely. The fact that while the subject might be stretched, the shapes Matt Wagner makes it take inspire devotion and interest in that subject, consistently. This one is all about enjoying the craft. And this is all about a master of that craft.

The fact remains however this is far from the best Grendel. Its some of the best comics, but the 40 issues of the Comico series I'll be embarking on soon are the best comics. They have all this craft all this brilliance BUT none of the stretched story. It takes the concept of Grendel. The dark ideas Hunter Rose inspires and explodes them into an opus that more successfully contains that creative genius...

... but that's to come.

For now I'll just revel in the fact that Matt Wagner beating a tale and character into the ground through over examination is still some of the best comics out there!
Title: Re: Matt 'the other' Wagner
Post by: Jim_Campbell on 13 December, 2020, 09:40:46 AM
Quote from: Colin YNWA on 12 December, 2020, 09:32:14 PM
Its some of the best comics, but the 40 issues of the Comico series I'll be embarking on soon are the best comics.

Absolutely one of the best comics on the stands at the time. I'll confess I haven't revisited it in many years, so I'm curious to hear your thoughts.
Title: Re: Matt 'the other' Wagner
Post by: Colin YNWA on 10 January, 2021, 10:16:18 AM
Well I've just finished the first twelve issues of the Comico Grendel series, which is the Christine Spar arc. The journalist 'Granddaughter' of Hunter Rose whose son disappears and hence she becomes the next 'avatar' for Grendel. I have to say it remains my favourite piece of Matt Wagner's writing to date, yes I think I prefer it to Mage AND the Hunter Rose stories. We'll see how it holds up as I reread the rest of the Grendel Comico series as I know it stays seriously good.

The Christine Spar arc is in many way 'safer' and more traditonally written than some of the other Grendel arcs, but I think that's why I love it so much. It has a fairly familar revenge story structure, though it does rather pervert that. The magic comes from the way it uses that to craft damned interesting ideas, character development and tucks multiple themes under that classic structure. It gives so much on re-read.

I also enjoy the way it develops the concept of Grendel so subtly. the idea that its a legacy, a curse, the devil inhabiting humankind is beautifully played. The first seven issues is the well crafted revenge story. Christine going after the killer of her child. The truth though begins to reveal the fact that this is 'Grendel' the monster within, simply opening up Spar and preparing her for her ultimate goal to come up against Argent, 'Grendel's nemesis. As Christine falls further and further into the grips of anger, revenge and malice we see that her horrors will not have boundaries and that is finally played out in issue 9. An almost silent episode where Spar haunts and 'tortures' a cop that has been harassing her and her friends. Its a wonderful examination of what she has become without even a word uttered.

The end of the story is entirely wonderful as well, as the conflicit between her and Argent ramps into a glorious and brutal final climatic conflict.

I've focused very much on the brilliance of the writing as the art is quite something else. Its brash and so 80s - we've never seen clothes SOOOOO BBBIIIIIGGGG. Its absolutely hyper-realised and has dated terribly. Its so stylised as to be ugly at times... and yet... Unlike I would expect from how little I like its cosmetic style I don't find it distracts me from the tale being told. In fact as demonstrated again in the glorious issue 9 its twisted ugly styling perfectly enhance the story at times. Here (in issue 9) crafted the ugly, distorted world that the hunted cop inhabits and flees through. At the same time emphasizing the twisted distorted soul Christine Spar has become and how she views the world. In this issue its perfect... even though I kinda hate it!

So yeah this story arc isn't as obivously innovative as I recall some of the later tales being. Its not as innovative as some of the Hunter Rose stuff. Yet interestingly in not seeming to be so and playing its innovations closer to its chest its actually as innovative as anything Matt Wagner has done.

I'm super excited to see if anything can top this arc. I'm not sure it does, but then that's no bad thing as the benchmark is so SO high here. This story will be in my top ten comic stories ever on any day.

Just brilliant.
Title: Re: Matt 'the other' Wagner
Post by: sintec on 10 January, 2021, 12:44:34 PM
Having read your reviews of Grendel I now really want to get my hands on copies of these they sound awesome. Looks like the omnibuses are quite pricey these days though :( Will keep my eyes on ebay and see if I can snap up some copies 2nd hand.

Got some of Mage in the recent Image Humble Bundle so that's joined the digital to-read backlog.
Title: Re: Matt 'the other' Wagner
Post by: Colin YNWA on 10 January, 2021, 02:33:10 PM
I normally feel worried when folks say they might pick up stuff based on my blathering BUT with Grendel a lot less so. Its entirely possible someone else won't like it but it won't be for lack of quality. For me this comic is a fine example of the dangers of lionising Watchmen quite so much. Grendel from Comico is a prime (no pun intended) example of a comic that is better*(person opinion - shoot me), more innovative and a better tribute to the comics medium. There are others. But Watchmen became The Beatles. More than just loved, but the very definition of what a comic should be for so many that its brilliance became a self forfilling profercy and other just as brilliant (or better) comics kinda got over looked.

Depending on how you like your comics the Omnibus are available at a decent price digitally and if you eBay you can get a complete set of the Comico run for a reasonable prices - though I imagine with patience you can get them at a great price.

* As ever it is alas necessary to say while I might think there are comics that are better than Watchmen does not mean I don't think Watchmen is brilliant!
Title: Re: Matt 'the other' Wagner
Post by: sintec on 10 January, 2021, 04:31:28 PM
Might grab something in digital to test the waters actually - that's an excellent idea. If it's as good as it sounds then I can always hunt down some physical copies later.
Title: Re: Matt 'the other' Wagner
Post by: Bolt-01 on 10 January, 2021, 06:21:49 PM
Grendel really is some of the finest comics out there.

I really can't praise it enough, or as well as Colin.

I was lucky enough to pick up the Comico series as it came out and got all the floppies to the end of War Child and the two Batman crossovers.
Title: Re: Matt 'the other' Wagner
Post by: Colin YNWA on 24 January, 2021, 04:20:12 PM
Quote from: Bolt-01 on 10 January, 2021, 06:21:49 PM
I was lucky enough to pick up the Comico series as it came out and got all the floppies to the end of War Child and the two Batman crossovers.

Man I do wish I'd done this at the time. I picked up one issue - I think at UKCAC one year - at the start of my trying to experiment phase, issue 28 'Meeting Adjourned' - I found it baffling and a little off kilter. There was so much other stuff out there at the time I didn't follow through with it. Shame as I do wonder how this might have affected my comics fandom is I had. As it was Dave Sim and Cerebus got that role (I stopped as it became full on misogynist - at least overtly.

ANYWAY

I've just finished issues 13-23 of the Comico Grendel ongoing, a series of mini stories before the final two big arcs. These comics are why I know Grendel falls into an elite bunch of comics that are defo my favourite run EVERRRRR until I read another one from this list which promptly takes over. The list being the aforementioned Cerebus (up to issue 180ish), Nocenti's Daredevil, GMozz's Animal Man, Zot!, pretty much all 70s Kirby and very possibly Concrete will be added to this when it re-read again soon - I'm such a late 80s kid!*

Anyway why this run of stories does that is I don't like it that much... okay yeah I said that for dramatic effect. I love it, its brilliant - I just don't love these, even the four issues drawn by Wagner himself, as much as the other, longer arcs. The stories are great, even when we return to Hunter Rose, which feels appropriate and necessary and does add something fresh to the already bloated examination. Even if I don't enjoy them as much, I adore the restless, endless invention Matt Wagner uses to craft them. The way the art slips and slides perfectly with each story. The way three issues can cover a few weeks, four issues a few days and then each issue push the story on hundreds of years.

I love the way Wagner plays with the form, the pages, the style to punch the stories out, to craft them in utterly different hues and tones. Yet make them feel entirely connected and singular in vision. I guess its a bit like 2000ad in that respect. Stories so different, art styles so unique, yet there's a energy, a vibe, a freedom that runs through and unifies them.

Yeah these might be my least favourite of these series of comics but they are still some of my favourite comics of all time and thus we know, with 17 issues to go (29 if you count the Dark Horse War Child series as a continuation) that the Comico Grendel series is defo, without doubt by favourite comic series evvveerrrr... well until I read one of those other ones**

* I exclude any 2000ad from this lot as that does kinda completely distort and define the way I love all fiction in any form or medium!

** Oh and I reserve the right to change that list of other favourites series evvverrrr at the drop of a hat.
Title: Re: Matt 'the other' Wagner
Post by: Link Prime on 28 January, 2021, 05:21:39 PM
Potentially good news; according to an update on my Comic Hub account, issue 5 of Devils Odyssey is due to land April 14th.
Title: Re: Matt 'the other' Wagner
Post by: Bolt-01 on 28 January, 2021, 05:54:03 PM
Woo, and indeed Hoo!
Title: Re: Matt 'the other' Wagner
Post by: Colin YNWA on 28 January, 2021, 06:01:56 PM
Oh that is good news - Dark Horse's website has it listed then as well - Oh happy day!
Title: Re: Matt 'the other' Wagner
Post by: Colin YNWA on 05 February, 2021, 11:40:29 AM
Well a day of self indulgence means not only have I got my 45 minute sketch done I've also been able to finish the last if the Grendel Comico series and my God do I love it.

These last two arcs are almost as good as the Christine Spar story, if not quite a pure. The first deals with a conflicit between christian church and the businesses that now rule the recovering world. A more damaged vessel for Grendel runs amok in this conflicit as a future Grendel starts to define what the spirit has become. After all if the church is corrupt and evil what must become of the spirit, the devil, it defines as evil in order to defeat them? Its a very interesting developmentand exploration of evil, anger and agression. As the conflicit escalates brilliantly the new vessel for Grendel also slowly comes under its now different control in the form of the leader Orion Assante.

By the end there is a glorious battle, the church is exposed as the realm of vampires, who in defeat seed a new, less controlled plague of the uindead. Its quite, quite brilliant.

After this the final 7 issues are dense, slowly paced piece of craft showing the rise of Orion Assante from business leader, to national president - or Grendel - to world leader. Its not as thrilling and energetic as what has gone before, but in it's cold, plotted delivery no less brilliant. Vampires inhabit the edges of this story and fittingly the back half of the comics in a more traditional strip that details their own development as a nation.

In the simply stunning final comic, issue 40, the take of the life of Orion comes to its end with the glorious revelation that the story we've been reading is the one documented by his step daughter - taking us right back to the start of the series and Christine Spar indirectly (there's a generation seperating them but the parallel is clear). Other tales are set up so we get that perfect end I've mentioned in other threads. A fantastic end in and of itself, but one that clearly leaves doors open for future stories. Which we'll get to soon enough.

One other thing to note is how brilliantly dense and packed these comics are. In the hour or so I typically get to read in the evenings if I'm reading modern US comics I can often rattle through 5, 6 even 7 comics - 2000ad I get through 3 typically. These Grendel comics I was reading at a rate of 2 or 3 an evening. They demand attention and have a lot going on. The work you put in is so richly rewarded.

I'll call it now - and as I've said before change my mind at a moments notice. This is the best comic series of all time - by which I mean my favourite - after 2000ad of course.
Title: Re: Matt 'the other' Wagner
Post by: Colin YNWA on 02 March, 2021, 09:20:42 PM
I underestimated  Grendel - War Child it would seem. A ten issue mini or issues 41-50 of the ongoing if you will sees the comic move to Dark Horse and back to more traditional comic storytelling.

What it lacks in innovation it more than makes up for in craft. Patrick McEown does the bulk of the art and does a fantastic job of being like Matt Wagner while being entirely his own thing. The story of escape, legacy has more akin to the first arc of the ongoing with a more immediately traditional action adventure. But like that story its laced with so much depth and character. Weaved with simple complexity and it just downright fantastic.

A few odds and sods to go - I think I'm skipping the crossovers for now, two with Bats one with The Shadow as I recall they don't work anywhere near as well as these issues (mind I didn't remember how good War Child was so maybe...) and we're done.

Grendel is the best comics out there. Read it.
Title: Re: Matt 'the other' Wagner
Post by: Link Prime on 04 March, 2021, 09:35:17 AM
Quote from: Colin YNWA on 02 March, 2021, 09:20:42 PM
I underestimated  Grendel - War Child it would seem. A ten issue mini or issues 41-50 of the ongoing if you will sees the comic move to Dark Horse and back to more traditional comic storytelling.


I remember picking this up monthly in my early teens solely on the back of Biz doing a few covers for it.
It was one helluva ride back then, and also a second time when I read the omnibus a coupla years ago.
Rock solid sci-fi violence.
Title: Re: Matt 'the other' Wagner
Post by: Colin YNWA on 01 May, 2021, 08:48:05 PM
In the after blurb of Devil's Odyssey we have the wonderful news that when the series finishes Matt Wagner has an "unexpected" sequel coming our way. More Grendel = a better world!
Title: Re: Matt 'the other' Wagner
Post by: sintec on 26 August, 2021, 04:09:14 PM
Quote from: Colin YNWA on 10 January, 2021, 02:33:10 PM
Depending on how you like your comics the Omnibus are available at a decent price digitally and if you eBay you can get a complete set of the Comico run for a reasonable prices - though I imagine with patience you can get them at a great price.

Wandered into the toon today to check out the local comic and record shops (we moved up to Newcastle just before first lockdown occurred so have only recently started to explore properly). Sat there on the shelf was a copy of the first Grendel Omnibus so I snapped that up. Might take a little while to surface in the reading pile though had a sudden influx of books recently so there's a bit of a queue building up.
Title: Re: Matt 'the other' Wagner
Post by: Colin YNWA on 26 August, 2021, 04:36:37 PM
Fingers crossed you like it.

The first Omnibus contains the Hunter Rose stuff and comes from comics created of maybe 30 years so its really interesting form that perspective as well - the omnibus is order chronologically by Hunter Rose's life as opposed to the order the strips were created in.

Its like a choppy diary I suppose.

This thread makes me miss Bolt-01
Title: Re: Matt 'the other' Wagner
Post by: sintec on 03 October, 2021, 11:51:32 AM
Got about half-way through the first omnibus. I'm taking a break for now as it does look like the next chunk is "more of the same" and whilst the same is absolutely superb comics I think I'll appreciate it more with a palate cleanser in between. Going to have to keep my eyes out for more of this - sounds like it only gets better from here and that's a pretty high bar. Maybe these will get a reprint with the TV series about to hit they seem to be rare as hens teeth at the moment.
Title: Re: Matt 'the other' Wagner
Post by: Colin YNWA on 03 October, 2021, 08:33:46 PM
Yeah the Hunter Rose stuff is mined a little too deeply and splitting it with a break makes a lot of sense, but as you said great comics.

I think that's why I enjoy the ongoing series a little more it roams through so much terrority with the same deft craft and innovation.
Title: Re: Matt 'the other' Wagner
Post by: Colin YNWA on 19 August, 2022, 08:36:28 AM
So as well as the Netflix series getting closer it has also done something already that will make it worth while. We're getting more Grendel from Matt Wagner!!! Yes

https://bleedingcool.com/tv/grendel-netflix-live-action-series-getting-matt-wagner-project-tie-in/ (https://bleedingcool.com/tv/grendel-netflix-live-action-series-getting-matt-wagner-project-tie-in/)

I'm guessing (have no idea or information) that it will be based in the TV continuity - assuming they have had to change a good number of things to make the story 'work' for telly. If so that's actually a good thing rather than further mining the comics version of Hunter Rose, which as I've said before has been rather over worked already.
Title: Re: Matt 'the other' Wagner
Post by: 13school on 20 August, 2022, 06:15:24 AM
I'm increasingly pessimistic about TV adaptations of comics, but Grendel is one of the few upcoming series I'm excited about (and not just because I've been a fan since I found an Pander Bros issue of the solo Comico series at my local newsagent too many years ago).

For whatever reason, while Wagner really nailed down the broad strokes of Hunter Rose, he's never really developed the character much beyond those strokes despite there being plenty of scope there. He's a creepy yet elegant yet lethal crime lord with an adopted daughter, a well-connected confidant, and a monster as a nemesis... and that's about it, despite there being hundreds of pages of comics covering his (short) life and times.

So the TV series should easily be able to stick to the essence of the original while having plenty of room to add whatever's needed to make it work as a serial drama. Just have a guy in a tuxedo and a mask stabbing people with a weird two-bladed spear and you're 70% there!

(also, any new Grendel comics by Wagner is automatically great news)
Title: Re: Matt 'the other' Wagner
Post by: Blue Cactus on 25 August, 2022, 11:50:12 PM
I've been thinking I should try Grendel for about 15 years now. Might try Omnibus 1.
Title: Re: Matt 'the other' Wagner
Post by: sintec on 26 August, 2022, 06:46:51 AM
Quote from: Blue Cactus on 25 August, 2022, 11:50:12 PM
I've been thinking I should try Grendel for about 15 years now. Might try Omnibus 1.


As someone persuaded to do the same by this thread all I can say is; do it - you won't regret it.

Good luck finding a copy though, they're not the easiest books to stumble across. Keep hoping they'll get a reprint with the upcoming TV show as I'd love omnibus 2 but it's always overpriced when I see it.
Title: Re: Matt 'the other' Wagner
Post by: Colin YNWA on 26 August, 2022, 07:17:36 AM
There's a new version of Omnibus 1 out and the rest are being released in a new format which is in a bigger size (typical US comics size rather than the small Dark Horse Omnibus size) so fingers crossed they are out there. Our get to a Sheffield comic mart as I'm selling my copy of Omnibus 1 as I have the new one!

https://www.amazon.co.uk/Grendel-Omnibus-Hunter-Rose-Second/dp/1506732305/ref=sr_1_1?crid=37EDDDGJEYZUG&keywords=grendel+omnibus+1&qid=1661494482&sprefix=grendel+omnibus+1%2Caps%2C99&sr=8-1 (https://www.amazon.co.uk/Grendel-Omnibus-Hunter-Rose-Second/dp/1506732305/ref=sr_1_1?crid=37EDDDGJEYZUG&keywords=grendel+omnibus+1&qid=1661494482&sprefix=grendel+omnibus+1%2Caps%2C99&sr=8-1)
Title: Re: Matt 'the other' Wagner
Post by: Blue Cactus on 26 August, 2022, 09:59:57 AM
Ok, you guys have convinced me. Forbidden Planet had the first two omnibi for £17 each so I've ended up ordering both!
Title: Re: Matt 'the other' Wagner
Post by: Blue Cactus on 26 August, 2022, 10:02:33 AM
Volume 2 is due for release on 14th September for those who are waiting for it.
Title: Re: Matt 'the other' Wagner
Post by: sintec on 26 August, 2022, 10:15:23 AM
Damn it I'm tying not to buy more books until I finish the DIY that will let me have bookshelves. This however will be difficult to resist (as will a long list of other books, better get that DIY done).
Title: Re: Matt 'the other' Wagner
Post by: Colin YNWA on 26 August, 2022, 12:45:41 PM
Volume 2 is the Christine Sparr stuff I think (I have the original comics) and to my mind  when you get into the art which took me some time, is some of my favourite ever comics.
Title: Re: Matt 'the other' Wagner
Post by: Blue Cactus on 26 August, 2022, 03:52:33 PM
Quote from: Colin YNWA on 26 August, 2022, 12:45:41 PM
Volume 2 is the Christine Sparr stuff I think (I have the original comics) and to my mind  when you get into the art which took me some time, is some of my favourite ever comics.

Excellent! I was wondering what you and other folk here considered the best eras of the strip.
Title: Re: Matt 'the other' Wagner
Post by: Colin YNWA on 26 August, 2022, 05:21:44 PM
Quote from: Blue Cactus on 26 August, 2022, 03:52:33 PM
Quote from: Colin YNWA on 26 August, 2022, 12:45:41 PM
Volume 2 is the Christine Sparr stuff I think (I have the original comics) and to my mind  when you get into the art which took me some time, is some of my favourite ever comics.

Excellent! I was wondering what you and other folk here considered the best eras of the strip.

Read down thread there a load of longwinded blather from me discussing my last re-read.
Title: Re: Matt 'the other' Wagner
Post by: Blue Cactus on 26 August, 2022, 07:18:10 PM
Will do Colin!
Title: Re: Matt 'the other' Wagner
Post by: Colin YNWA on 27 September, 2022, 09:27:42 PM
Not actually Matt Wagner. Rather I'm here to talk about Grendal Tales - The Devil May Care by Terry laBan and Peter Doherty of these pastues. Its really quite brilliant.

Basically a Shakespearean tragedy cast against a Grendal Klan in Indianapolis about to host the Indianapolis 5000 as the Klan leader falls in star crossed love with a hospital doctor and starts to lose control of his Khan. Its epic stuff told on the small intermit scale and superb.

Peter Doherty's art is hot and dusty as you'd expect and with perfect character work carrys the story immaculately.

I mean it might not be Wagner but its the next best thing. Highly recommended.
Title: Re: Matt 'the other' Wagner
Post by: 13school on 28 September, 2022, 06:41:22 AM
Seems Netflix has dumped the Grendel TV series part-way through production (though another streaming service might pick it up and finish it). Not good news.
Title: Re: Matt 'the other' Wagner
Post by: Colin YNWA on 28 September, 2022, 07:59:57 AM
Quote from: 13school on 28 September, 2022, 06:41:22 AM
Seems Netflix has dumped the Grendel TV series part-way through production (though another streaming service might pick it up and finish it). Not good news.

Oh no that's rubbish! I wonder what went wrong???
Title: Re: Matt 'the other' Wagner
Post by: Blue Cactus on 28 September, 2022, 02:06:16 PM
Selfishly I hope this doesn't affect the reprinting of the Omnibi since I just finally committed to collecting the things!

Just started on the first volume last night. It's a strange way to start reading the series, with what is effectively a long recap of a storyline I haven't read, but without any context or info on what Grendel or the Wolf are or why they're enemies etc. Great visuals, although I prefer a more traditional comic approach so looking forward to starting the next section, which seems to comprise lots of short stories with guest artists.
Title: Re: Matt 'the other' Wagner
Post by: Blue Cactus on 28 September, 2022, 03:54:54 PM
Omnibus 3 due out in January by the looks of things.
Title: Re: Matt 'the other' Wagner
Post by: Colin YNWA on 07 January, 2023, 12:40:10 PM
So the latest issue of Tripwire - genre magazine, something I've never picked up has some great content. In that a celebration of Grendel on its 40th Anniverary - wow! This takes the form of an extended interview with Matt Wagner which is worth the price of admission (other good looking content I will get to soon I hope).

Anyway to save you all having to pay the admission - though worth it as I say - the highlight is the reveal (to me at least) that the next Grendel series will be Devil's Crucible an overarching storyline consisting of 3, 4 part minis. They will be a direct sequel to Devil's Odyssey.

Now timing will a little slippy as I get the impression this interview was written prior to the Netflix show being canned as Wagner suggest the release will be delayed pending a 'surprise' relating directly to the telly show.... now we know that's a 120 page (???was it) story tied to thaty telly show and at a guess this will be delayed while the show isn't coming... unless they flip that... who knows... anyway we'll see when the 12 issues start to come out and super excited to see what comes.
Title: Re: Matt 'the other' Wagner
Post by: 13school on 07 January, 2023, 03:49:28 PM
Thanks for the update! It's weird to think it wasn't so long ago that Netflix (or any streaming service) canceling a series (ie Grendel) before it was released was a shock, whereas now they're constantly axing things at every stage.

Sadly this leads me to suspect we'll never see it, but fingers crossed I'm wrong.
Title: Re: Matt 'the other' Wagner
Post by: Colin YNWA on 07 January, 2023, 04:56:26 PM
Hey we'll always have the comics!

While I'd love it to happen if it made Matt Wagner happy, the fact one of the great strengths of the comics is the very fact that it plays with the medium in such sensational ways means I wonder how well any show would serve it... we'll have to wait to see if we ever find out.