DCs' Titans & The Pitfalls To Avoid

I normally try and stay away from talking about adaptions. They tend to get covered in a lot of detail by a lot of people. However, with the Rebirth series, I have become a fan of the Teen Titans again and so, I feel it only fitting that, with a lot of recent casting news coming through the pipeline, I throw my two cents in. Because, while I am enjoying the team in the source material and the castings sound good on paper, I also have some criticism of the handling of the franchise.

I don't want to entirely shut the idea of the series down from jump though. No, that would be a disservice to fans. Instead, I want to air my three biggest concerns about the series. The Titans/Teen Titans have a storied history within the DC Universe. Which is why I hope that these issues can be avoided. Sadly that history does enable some of these shortcomings, but without further delay, onto the heart of the matter. The criticism:

1.Relying on old team dynamics.

One thing that I can't get over in comics, is the appeal to nostalgia that tends to happen ad nauseam. With that said, I do understand why a lot of current creators do it. A lot of it is calling back to what they grew up reading and it can be fun to see these call backs. For a live-action television series featuring the Titans though, this is a team that has the potential to do a lot more than that.

The relationship between Starfire and Nightwing is iconic among Teen Titan fans, as is the friendship shared between Cyborg and Beast Boy. While we are likely to see these explored, I would imagine that on some level fans of the franchise want something new, even with these familiar characters. The idea of Dick having feelings for another teammate like Raven has never really been explored and would leave longtime fans with something new to sink their teeth into.

Likewise, while the duo of Beast Boy and Cyborg is well-known for their fun-loving and carefree friendship, it's not entirely unique. With that, it's a possible friendship that can be explored with any combination of characters, such as Hawk & Dove who will be appearing in the show. Static and Blue Beetle III are also characters that could play well with Beast Boy--a safe bet for one of the members of the cast.

2. Relying on old stories.

If you've seen the Teen Titans series from 2003, then you'll remember Raven's backstory as a half-demon, to allow Trigon to enter and conquer Earth. This story is what created The New Teen Titans and has generally been Raven's defining story. While an important milestone in Titan history and a great story, it is also one told through several mediums. From the original story, the animated series, and most recently serving as part of the inspiration for Justice League vs. Teen Titans.

While I don't think anyone would bemoan the idea of Deathstroke appearing as a villain in the series, it would be surprising not to see The Judas Contract revisited in some way through this. Another important story in the history of the Titans, recently resurrected through The Lazarus Contract, this and the story of Raven are not the only tales that deserve this kind of attention.

Stories, such as Who is Donna Troy or even an adaption of the animated episode Winner Take All would be welcome. Ideally, we would be given a combination of both new and old stories. While Superheroes may be all the rage with the mainstream audience now, it shouldn't entirely play catch-up for longtime fans.

3. Stagnant Cast

The DC Universe is filled with powerful warriors, genius strategists, and all forms of life in-between. And it's a safe bet to say that a lot of them have joined some incarnation of The Titans at one point or another. While, I'm not advocating that the folks at WB should go out of their way to include every single character possible into every episode, I do think it's within the spirit of the franchise to explore some of these characters and lineups.

Outside our current cast, many members of this team have had a lasting influence at various points. Arsenal, Omen, and Jericho, among others, have all played pivotal roles in the development in the group. Their inclusion at a point, would make a great testament to the scope of the DCU and the rotating roster proved entertaining aspects of similarly series such as Justice League: Unlimited and Young Justice.

While you could still have your primary cast, guest appearances, like the source material offers at times, would be a great way to get eyes on a series from fans of the various versions of the Titans/Teen Titans.

Truthfully, I look forward to the series. It's still a ways out, but I imagine it will be a treat to see these characters come to life. The castings have been surprising, but not bad by any stretch. Development has always been one of my favorite things about the Titans and so I hope that's a theme that carries over to the show. Well, that and an appearance by Static. That's what I'd really like to see!

In Defense of Comics Rotating Creative Teams (Part 2)

Authors' note: Part 1 for this article can be found here.

In continuing with the dialog sparked by this article, on the shortcomings of American comics in comparison to Manga, the other reason I don't hold the following tweet to be entirely accurate is because I don't think every Mangaka is consistently good at what they do, even if they are the original creators of a series. This can be for a variety of reasons. It is also worth noting that, despite their many differences, Manga can have similar issues to American comics.

I like the continuity, characters don't become completely different people every few issues whenever a new team takes over.

— Pluiedautomne (@pluiedautomne) July 5, 2017

Artists, writers, and the various other people who put together mediums like these aren't perfect.
Even iconic creators can fall short of the expectations of their fans at times. Famed creators like Akira Toriyama, Masashi Kishimoto, and Hirohiki Araki have done amazing work with their respective franchises. Naruto, Dragon Ball, and Jojo's Bizzare Adventure are all incredibly popular and influential series. But even the staunchest defenders of these men has to concede that each one has issues with their series. 

Kishimotos' development of his female characters, and the escalation of power leading to less traditional Ninja techniques and more explosions in the Naruto led to, in many peoples' opinion, the decline of the series as it progressed. DB fans who happen to prefer characters who aren't Saiyans regularly find their favorite characters becoming less useful as Goku, Vegeta, and other Gods dominate the action of the series. Stardust Crusaders, arguably the most iconic of the Jojo's Bizzare Adventure franchise begins with a gaping plot hole--the first of many throughout the series.

I love JJBA, but how could DIO be in a coffin underwater if Erina used it to get to safety?

When such things occur in comics, it's not unusual for a new creative team to address similar issues, by furthering development of minor characters, helping reestablish or refocus major characters, or addressing old issues. Many times for the better. Such instances have given comics a number of great characters, events, and the like. 

Runs like The Flash by Mark Waid, Action Comics by Grant Morrison, and Aquaman by Geoff Johns are all critically-acclaimed, along with cult-classics like Secret Six by Gail Simone and Nightwing by Chuck Dixon. Under new writers and artists, Green Arrow went from a Batman copycat, to his own defined character with a passionate fanbase. Very much different from the original creation of Mortimer Weisinger and George Papp.

While the Silver Age stories have their charm, I think Green Arrow is in great hands these days.

In addition, and this might be an extreme case in helping my argument, but it's not unheard of for Mangaka to take time off. Since they typically do a lot of work, it's not a bad idea to think that these men and women could use a break. This is something you're particularly adept with dealing with, though, if you're a HunterxHunter fan. Some fans are even suggesting that creator, Yoshihiro Togashi hand the series to a more consistent artist.

While individual artists and writers are known to take issues off, it rarely results in an outright stoppage. The cost of which, could mean a loss of interest and readers. Where this helps American comics, is that when artists and writers take breaks, a fill-in gets a huge opportunity! 

While the practice is far from perfect and American comics can stand to learn a lot from how Manga is made. Still, there is plenty of room for give and take. And likewise, Mangakas can learn a lot from how American comics are produced. In the long run, I would hope to see more entertaining and varied products come from both sides.

Interview: Rose, of Poison Ivy League

The following is the transcript of an interview done via Twitter with Rose (@ivygirl851). The inspiration for this interview came after seeing several of her tweets to Tom King regarding Poison Ivys' appearances in his ongoing arc, as well as her recommendation of the latest Birds of Prey issue. My words are preceded by "TJ" while hers are preceded by "RO."

TJ: Thank you for agreeing to my request for an interview. Care to share a bit about yourself? What are some of your interests and aside from Poison Ivy? What are some other characters that you identify with and why?

RO: Hi, my name is Rose and I'm working at a small publishing/printing company. I've been involved in various causes since I was 16, have earned a couple of awards for my previous job at a women's helpline, and I'm a volunteer and activist for social, anti-racist, and feminist causes. I love reading Swamp Thing, Moebius Works, Secret Six, Storm, Batgirl, Philip Druillet, Jean Dufaux, Jodo, Red Sonja, and classic Metal Hurlant/Heavy Metal magazines. 

TJ: How long have you been a Poison Ivy fan, and where did the idea for this online community you're a part of, the Poison Ivy League (PIL) come from? 

RO: I've been a Poison Ivy fan for 15-20 years. Hard to spot the exact period. I've been more active the last 5-6 years. PIL started when a group of friends sharing our love for Ivy met online through twitter and decided to create a tag. The tag and the idea for the group came from @Venomous_Rose a fellow Poison Ivy fan and friend. The idea behind PIL is to promote the character and help new fans discover her.

TJ: What makes Poison Ivy so interesting to you, and how did you begin to consider her to be more a hero than a Villain? Who or what made this character mean something to you?

RO: PIL friends share various ideas about Ivy. Others want her as an antihero, others as a well-rounded villain, and others as a hero. I see more potential in her as a hero because the ideas and messages behind the character: activism, feminism, environmentalism are now more important than ever. Batman could kill the Joker but in the end global warming and pollution will kill us all. Greg Rucka's heroic, anti-authoritarian Poison Ivy in No Man's Land is the one that resonated most with me. And Mr. Rucka is one of the first people that told me that it's worth fighting for a heroic Poison Ivy and I shouldn't give up.

Poison Ivy with Batman in Detective Comics #752.

TJ: In the past few years, how would you describe the treatment and portrayal of Poison Ivy? Who has done her right in your opinion and who are some creators that you'd like to see get the chance to do Poison Ivy that haven't had the chance to before?

RO: Greg Rucka, Gail Simone, Scott Snyder, John Layman, Ann Nocenti, Amy Chu, Christy Marx and many more wrote some excellent Poison Ivy stories. They understand her cause and try to write her as a well rounded character. A character that breathes revolution. Or as Gail Simone said: the last honest person in the world, the one who in the end will save humanity and the planet. I'd like to see Matt Miner, David Gallagher or David Walker to write some stories with her. Or perhaps a Jean Dufaux story drawn by Ana Miralles.

TJ: For people who would be unfamiliar with the character, what are some of the stories that you would recommend to get the best Poison Ivy? What are some of your top Poison Ivy-centric stories and series?

RO: Amy Chu's Poison Ivy mini is a great place to start. I'd add Neil Gaiman's Secret Origins, Ann Nocenti's Cast Shadows, Gail Simone's Batgirl Annual 2, Scott Snyder's All-Star Batman, and Swamp Thing, John Layman's Detective Comics/Gothtopia, Hope Larson's Batgirl and of course the current Birds of Prey by the Bensons which she's a part of. 

Amy Chu, writer of Poison Ivy: Cycle of Life and Death

TJ: Recently, you've been very vocal about some of the treatment Ivy has had in stories. In particular, her role in A War of Jokes & Riddles and Birds of Prey. Can you explain to us how these two contrasting characterizations have made you, as a fan feel?

RO: I'll be honest. I'm very angry about how she's being treated in Batman. Angry and disappointed because Mr. King, a writer who I deeply respect, was promising Poison Ivy fans the exact opposite of what he delivered. He was promising a heroic, independent, non-killer Poison Ivy who'd inspire hope, and wouldn't be just a soldier in a story (his own tweets) and instead presented a soldier/killer-drone for Riddler in a war about male domination in Gotham. I still think he is a great person, a very good and talented writer but I still want to know why he broke all his promises to Ivy fans and decided to go with a version of Ivy that he said he was worried about.

Birds of Prey has a scientist, environmentalist Poison Ivy who plays by her own rules and has her own sense of justice but also she can think clear and in the end she knows what's the best thing to do. It makes sense for her to be a member of a team like BoP because the more straightforward heroic members can help her see a different kind of morality than her own. And the Benson's understand the idea of a modern activist/woman in STEM and incorporate it organically in their book.

Poison Ivy with The Riddler in Batman #26.

Appreciate your voice on this. I got no plans to make her a killer.

— Tom King (@TomKingTK) November 17, 2016

TJ: If you were ever given the chance to write or design a Poison Ivy series, what are some of the key themes would you have and what would her supporting cast look like? Any familiar faces from the Batman or Birds of Prey?

RO: A dream team would be Vixen, Mera, and Poison Ivy. Imagine their powers combined. And all three  share similar ideas and values and are not afraid to play dirty. Or a "Green team " book. Swamp Thing dealing with the supernatural level of threats and Poison Ivy with the more down to earth elements. Like a secret agent for the Green.

The preceding story, has been lightly edited for proper grammar and the format of this blog, and all original intentions and meanings have been kept. If you'd like to know more about the Poison Ivy fanbase, Poison Ivy League, be sure to check the # on Twitter.

In Defense of Comics Rotating Creative Teams (Part 1)

Ask any comic book fan who even occasionally goes on Social Media to discuss their fandom, and if they're honest, they'll tell you that comics has a long way to go when it comes to a lot of important factors in the market of today. These include topics such as in-universe and creative diversity, treatment of marginalized people, and several feminist aspects. Todays' readers are going elsewhere to find what they're looking for and the mainstream is having a hard time playing catch-up.

Recently, I came across one of these threads that got me thinking. A lot of what readers are looking for now can be found readily available in Manga. 

Japanese anime/manga is an eons ahead, as far as being good at catering to female fans' interests. But where else do they win w/ US fans?

— Deb Aoki (@debaoki) July 4, 2017

With the question posed, I saw several answers I agreed with, such as the fulfillment of niche interests and the desire for a complete story that has a beginning, middle, and end which most Big Two characters lack. This can be daunting to newer fans who might want to get into a book, but feel they haven't the "prerequisite knowledge" to fully grasp the current events. Those are understandable concerns.

However, there was one criticism of comics that I disagreed with.

I like the continuity, characters don't become completely different people every few issues whenever a new team takes over.

— Pluiedautomne (@pluiedautomne) July 5, 2017

While, I understand where the apprehension for a new creative team on something you've been enjoying, I actually think this is one of the strengths of comic books and what can bring more readers to a book. In fact, I would even argue that Manga could benefit from such a practice (in some respects), for a couple of different reasons. A good team can turn a floundering character/series around, for one.

Jeff Lemire & Andrea Sorrentino created one of the best Green Arrow series of all-time, after several lackluster runs.

The idea that comic book fans don't like change isn't really a myth. More something, we learn to live with as a fandom. It's also something that I think applies to Manga fans as well. Mangakas craft these worlds and stories with everything (presumably) planned out well in advance. The idea of changing the creator of a world can lead to some...interesting results. But, I don't think that the medium is one that can't find value in this practice.

These include Kim Yale and John Ostrander taking the events of The Killing Joke and using it to further Barbara Gordon, rather than end her or Jeff Lemire expanding on the origin of Oliver as the Green Arrow in his run on the series, and essentially revived a series that, as a GA fan probably should have been cancelled and made it a top book at DC during their run.

And while I do agree with the sentiment that creative changes can sometimes be jarring, that isn't necessarily bad. Deathstroke from both the New 52 and Rebirth lines is a completely different series, but both are enjoyable to read.

Gail Simone has turned Secret Six into a cult-hit. Her interpretation of Catman has also done the character well.

While I would hardly say that every change in Creative is good, I think it's important to note that there are many talented individuals that could bring any number of ideas to iconic characters that are woven into the tapestry of our popular culture. From both the writers and the artists involved, any number of creative teams can be the team to really highlight and develop characters and plot points where needed.

Bad stories can be forgotten, but great stories with great art, can become classics that people revisit for years to come. I think that's a risk worth taking.

Authors' note: This is part one of two in a series, highlighting the effectiveness and positive aspects of Creative Changes in Comics vs. Creator owned material of Manga. Part 2 is a available here.

Red Hood & The Outlaws is the Best Team Book!

Admittedly that's a bold statement, and I want to clarify that this applies only to DC Comics. However, if I were ever going to pick a hill to die on, this would be it (in terms of comics.) I enjoy several team and quasi-team books being released right now, including X-Men: Blue, Green Arrow, and Teen Titans. However, RHaTO hits a different sort of sweet spot that I didn't know I had.

Forming in the aftermath of Flashpoint, the original incarnation focused on "former heroes" bent, but unbroken by their circumstances in life, attempting to do some good in a world unsure of their place. Jason Todd, Koriand'r, and Roy Harper (Red Hood, Starfire, and Arsenal,) fought The Untitled, League of Assassins, aliens, and often each other.

This team was met with lukewarm reception at best, and outright dislike at several choices made for the team. These included the seemingly erased history of Starfire as a Titan, Roy now struggling with alcoholism, and Jasons' role as seemingly Dick Grayson-lite in the series. Over the course of the book, the team would eventually decide to disband--though Arsenal would attempt one last partnership with Red Hood in the short-lived Red Hood/Arsenal. Enter, Rebirth!

Out with the old, in with the new! Red Hood and The Outlaws #40 & #1.

Expectations for the series were, understandably low, as the new series was announced as a part of the Rebirth lineup. Jason had been in underwhelming stories beforehand, Bizzaro was spotty at best, and Artemis had been MIA for years. Still, teaser images and interviews with the creative team beforehand would all prove effective and the final product delivered has become (as I say in the title,) the best team book from DC Comics right now. The Dark Trinity concept, has proven to be a winning formula, delivering something fresh that other books at DC can't deliver.

Aside from one of the best-looking titles out right now, Red Hood & The Outlaws delivers compelling, dysfunctional family drama in a way that I've not seen in a book before. Not only is this dynamic apparent, it's lampshaded regularly, but never hamfisted. With Red Hood and Artemis playing the role of bickering, loving parents and Bizzaro as the shockingly understanding child, it is one of the oddly more humorous books that DC has, but still manages to pack in plenty of action.

Mr. & Mrs. Red. Red Hood & The Outlaws #13

Where volume one of this series felt like two brothers and a girlfriend, volume twos dynamic manages to tug at your heartstrings in a way that I don't think other books can. You empathize with these characters. When Jason is feeling protective of Bizzaro, you are, when Artemis is feeling confused, you are, when Bizzaro wants to help, so do you. It's quite a roller coaster to read, really.

Where books like Justice League, JLA rely on the spectacle of the Worlds' Greatest Heroes gathered for good, Suicide Squad and Green Arrow challenge our perceptions of power, right, and wrong, and Teen Titans and Titans hark back to a familiar time for comic fans, RHaTO doesn't have any of those luxuries and instead focuses more on the new relationships built from new perspectives and watching this unfold has been nothing short of a treat.

This is coming from, I like to think, a place free of bias. While I'm a fan of Red Hood, I'm not against calling out poor writing and the like when I notice it. I had almost no opinion on Bizzaro and Artemis when this began either. I like to imagine this was what it was like reading the first few issues of New Teen Titans when that team was originally introduced.

...Well that was unexpected. Red Hood & The Outlaws #13

Needless to say, I have no idea what to expect going forward and I love that. I have little idea as to the scope of the adventures, what reunions and departures we'll experience. However, I look forward to figuring that out with the rest of the fandom. Hopefully, if you haven't yet, this has encouraged you to pick up the series.