Comic Book Icon – George Perez – Passes Away At 67

The legendary artist/writer George Perez sadly passed away on May 6 with complications arising from pancreatic cancer. This devastating news actually hit me quite hard as it was George’s Wonder Woman comics run in the eighties that first introduced me to the Themysciran Titan, and ultimately made me fall in love with the character. 

George Perez is one of the most popular and acclaimed artists of the past half century, with his extensive run on Wonder Woman in the 1980’s being a defining moment not just in his own artistic career but also for the character herself. His reboot of Diana began with the 1987 issued – Wonder Woman #1, George was the main artist and plotted the series for its first two year run, then went on to write it for a further three, with his take on Wondy and her pantheon of allies and villains hailed as the greatest and most significant version of the characters since the original creation team of William Marston and Harry Peter in the 1940’s.

In 1980, George alongside fellow comic-book legend, Marv Wolfman, launched – The New Teen Titans, rebooting the classic sixties series and creating new characters to add to the roster of the team of teen sidekicks – Starfire, Raven and Cyborg, and also anti-hero mercenary – Deathstroke. It was also during this run that Dick Grayson finally stepped out of The Batman’s shadow and shed his Robin persona to become the peerlessly popular Nightwing.

George was born in New York City in June 1954, and was always destined to be an artist and started drawing from the tender age of five years old. At the age of twenty he took a job as a studio assistant at Marvel Comics, with his first published work appearing in Astonishing Tales #25 in 1974. George continued to work for Marvel until 1980 when he moved over to DC Comics, with his first artistic endeavour drawing the Flash back up tale – Firestorm. In 1985 after close to five years working on The New Teen Titans, he started work on DC’s massive crossover event – Crisis On Infinite Earths, the criss-crossing maxi-series that would end up altering the DC Universe dramatically for years to come, when this came to an end George went on to his career defining run On Wonder Woman and cemented his place in Comic-Book history.

Thank you George for all the joy and wonderment you have brought to me personally throughout your astonishing career, without you I may never have fallen in love with the many characters I hold dear today, most especially Wonder Woman, it was your iconic run that endeared Diana to me more than any character previous to her and for this reason alone, you will always be my most beloved comic creator of all time, rest in peace good sir.

Our Thoughts Go Out To George’s Family And Friends At This Sad Time.

Precinct1313 Recommends: I Am Not Starfire

I Am Not Starfire is another excellent entry in DC Comics’ Young Adult graphic novel line, an accessible and highly enjoyable series of non-canon original tales that beset the readers imaginations with terrific tales of classic superheroes, and villains, in their teen years.

Our previous foray with this superlative series of character chronicles was with the bodacious and boundless – Black Canary – though this particular melancholic narrative follows not the coruscating super-being known as Starfire, but her seemingly quotidian, recalcitrant daughter – Mandy.

Masterful manuscript manipulator – Mariko Tamaki and awesome artistic auteur – Yoshi Yoshitani combine their sublime skills for another tenacious tale of the rigours of youth, and dealing with the inevitable growing pains everyone eventually experiences on their emotional journey into adulthood. Whereas previous entries in DC’s superb series concentrated on superheroes and villains, this particular allegory follows the trepidatious tale of the distraught daughter of one of the most powerful beings on the planet.

Mandy is the atypical teenage girl – rebellious, moody, and capricious, though what sets apart Mandy from other sullen teens is her mum, you see her mum is the incandescent alien princess and superhero – Starfire! Throughout her young life, Mandy has grown up in the (sparkly) shadow of her mother, and has had to deal with the emotional baggage, intense public scrutiny and expectation that comes with being the daughter of a superhero. 

Mandy’s life has been fashioned from her mum’s fame and overt popularity, none of which, so far, has rubbed off on Mandy, who see’s herself as the Anti-Starfire. Unlike her super-model matriarch, Mandy has shown no sign of superpowers, is short, chubby and decidedly un-sparkly! Therefore whenever anyone appears to show an interest in Mandy herself, she assumes it’s because of her famous mum, and constantly has deep rooted fears that her mum is disappointed by her distinct lack of powers and sparkliness. Alongside these feelings of inadequacy, she’s also hounded on a daily basis by her school’s Teen Titans fan club, and has a secret crush on the local football team’s most popular and pretty cheerleader.

Things go from bad to worse though, when her alien aunty, the powerful and malevolent – Blackfire appears and challenges Mandy to a life or death duel, but with no superpowers, self esteem or even a cheerleading girlfriend, what’s a put upon goth girl to do?

I Am Not Starfire is another fantastic graphic novel from the prominent pen of marvellous Mariko Tamaki, with some absolutely lush and vivacious visuals from Yoshi Yoshitani, making for another gripping teenage tale of angst and apprehension, but ultimately growth, friendship and inner respect. Highly, highly recommended.

My Copy Of – I Am Not Starfire – Was Purchased From My Local (and utterly fantastic!) Comic-Book Emporium – Final Frontier.

Comic Cover Of The Week: One Cover To Rule Them All!

Felicitations, fellow fans of fantastic fiction, and welcome once more to our crazy cavalcade of cool and compelling comic cover collectables!

And, hoo-boy, there is an astonishing array of illustriously illustrated issues available at your nearby newsstands this week, so many in fact that it was impossible to pick just one. So here, for your decidedly delightful delectation, are my four fantabulous favourites…

Titans United #6 –

I’m a sucker for absolutely anything Starfire, so naturally I fell in love with this captivating cover the moment I laid eyes upon it’s marvellous magnificence! Cover artist in question for this bodacious beaut, is the amazing Jamal Campbell, with interior art handled by by Jose Luis and Jonas Trinidade.

Detective Comics #1052 –

Another DC Comics’ red-headed revelation is the beguiling Batwoman, and this gorgeous painterly piece of Kate Kane by Irvin Rodriguez is utterly stunning! Interior art is handled by Fernando Blanco and Max Raynor, with a tantalising tale by one of my current fave authors, the magnificent Mariko Tamaki.

I Am Batman #6 –

I Am Batman #6 is penned by 12 Years A Slave screenwriter – John Ridley, and follows the unfurling destiny of the new and mysterious variant of The Batman – Jace Fox. This is yet another tremendous tale by Ridley who wowed us recently with his Black Label masterpiece series for DC – The Other History Of The DC Universe. The commendable cover is by Olivier Coipel, and interior art by Ken Lashley and Rex Locus.

Strange Love Adventures #01-

Love is most definitely in the air again, and good ol’ DC Comics are here to warm the cockles of your heart, and brighten your soul with eight enthralling tales of… strange love? including a burly, brawly bodacious bromance between Peacemaker and his elegant Eagle sidekick – Eagly! The compelling cover is by Yanick Paquette, with interior art lovingly crafted by – Geraldo Borges, Jon Sommariva, Scot Eaton, and Pablo M Collar.

Personal pick of the bunch this week is Titans United #6, thanks to it’s radiant cover star – Starfire, but which of the featured foursome is your fave, why not sound off in the comments below!

Precinct1313’s Top Ten Favourite Comic-Book Covers Of All Time: No.02 – Starfire #1 – Amanda Conner

Salutations my charming comic collecting cohorts, and welcome once more to our continuing countdown of cherished comic cover classics. In our previous post we presented to you the decidedly dazzling drawing dynamics of the delightful Darwyn Cooke and his tremendous take on Teen Titans #5. This impeccable instalment illuminates the absolutely astounding art of Amanda Conner and her sassy and sumptuous Starfire #1 cover.

We have written in length about the astonishing artistic auteur that is Amanda Conner, and over the many, many years that I’ve been an avid comic collector I have encountered hundreds of fantastic artists that have regaled my geeky self with some utterly sublime scribblings, and though I am indebted to all these iconic illustrators for their glorious work, a number have really stood out as favourites – talented individuals such as the great George Perez, Neal Adams, Brian Bolland, Norm Breyfogle, Phil Jimenez and Nicola Scott, picking a fave amongst these would would always prove to be an insurmountable challenge. That was until I discovered the amazing art of Amanda Conner, from that point anybody enquiring as to whom my favourite artist was, would not be able to shut me up as I enthused and rhapsodised over her dreamy drawing delectations… quirky, zany, and instantly recognisable, for me personally Amanda will always be the greatest!

 

Amanda’s creative career began in the late 1980’s working for companies such as Archie Comics, Marvel and Harris’ Comics on their Vampirella series (which is where I first discovered her phenomenal oeuvre) But it was her work on the sundry female DC characters that led me to fall in love with her adroit artistic endeavours, especially her work with Starfire, Harley Quinn and Power Girl, which all remain (and always will) my absolute favourite versions of those iconic characters. 

I love the character of Starfire, have been a huge fan since her inaugural introduction by her colossal creators, George Perez and Marv Wolfman in DC Comics Presents #26 in 1980. Since then I have rallied to read every one of her exciting escapades, with my favourite take on the character being the 2015, 12 issue maxi-series by Amanda Conner and Jimmy Palmiotti, with this post’s feature cover being my most treasured. In fact, I love it so much, I have three copies of it (one framed, one in the collection and one to read… yeah I know – GEEK!) Not only that though, I also purchased the extremely limited (and rather expensive) DC Collectables statue based upon this iconic illustration, and even did my first ever YouTube unboxing video on said stunning sculpture, which you may partake in right below (yep, that’s my disembodied hands of unrivalled unboxing!!)

Why Not Join Us Again Next Time On Our Continuing Chronicle Of Cool And Crazy Comic Cover Collectables…

Precinct1313’s End Of The Decade Geekstravaganza

Well hi there fellow agents of Precinct1313, and welcome to the majestic mansion of mystery’s infamous Comic Crypts. I hope you didn’t have too much trouble finding your way down through the Precinct’s convoluted and ever changing hallways and chambers, that’s the problem with running a comic blog from a supernatural entity posing as a resplendent residence, oh and the fact that we are located at the edge of  existence also doesn’t help with navigation, as most Sat-Navs don’t appear to cover that… surprisingly!

And yet here you all are, so welcome, to Precinct1313’s End Of The Decade Geekstravaganza! That’s right, the decade draws itself to a close and we’re here to steer you through some of our favourite geeky moments from the past ten years, so pull up a tombstone (these are the comic crypts after all) and let’s all relive our favourite things of the past decennium…

Our Favourite Comic-Book Series: Mister Miracle 

Masters of the miraculous – Tom King and Mitch Gerads deserve every bit of praise thrown their way by their peers, critics and fans for this superlative series, a groundbreaking, emotional and touching 12 issue maxi-series that took one of DC and Jack Kirby’s most beloved second tier characters, and thrust him headlong into the deserving limelight. We wrote a review on this tenacious tome recently, so we shall leave you a handy dandy link right here .

Starfire 

 Though we feel that Miracle was without a shadow of a doubt, the greatest Superhero story released since Watchmen (really!) we couldn’t leave this particular post without mentioning our other comic-book love from the past ten years – Amanda Conner and Jimmy Palmiotti’s tantalising and terrific take on our absolute favourite orange hued alien princess, sizzling Superheroine – Starfire! Conner and Palmiotti are a dynamic duo of some renown in the wonderful world of comic books, a husband and wife team with a wild and wacky sense of humour that light up any character they get their talented hands upon, from Power Girl to their award winning run on Harley Quinn, everything these terrific twosome touch is utter comic-book gold, especially their 2015 maxi-series -Starfire.

Endlessly endearing and wonderfully witty, Starfire’s 2015 series is a gift that keeps on giving, Conner and Palmiotti (along with the series’ fantastic artist – Emanuela Lupacchino) have bestowed upon us humble comic fans, the greatest take on Tamaran’s lost Princess since she was first unleashed in 1980 by her superstar creators, George Perez and Marv Wolfman. An origin tale, a laugh out loud stranger in a strange place fable, Starfire is a beguiling and winsome take on a beloved DC character. Quite possibly the funniest and most captivating series from DC in many a year, the Precinct unequivocally recommends this touching and hilarious series.

(Favourite Comic-book series runners up – Doomsday Clock, Supergirl: Being Super, Wonder Woman: Rebirth)

Our Favourite Comic-Book Movie: Wonder Woman

Can you believe it took seventy five years to finally get one of the most popular, significant and important fictional characters of all time onto the big screen, a primary reason for this according to some producers, directors, movie studios and overall decision makers (all of whom were talking nonsense, of course) was that a female led Superhero movie stood little chance of success… well, I’m pleased to say that those negative naysayers were completely wrong in their assertions, because Patty Jenkins and Gal Gadot’s 2017 Wonder Woman movie most assuredly was an exquisite example of, not just a top tier translation of character to silver screen, but a film that also carried a compelling message of love, hope and empowerment.

Gal Gadot and Patty Jenkins more than made up for Diana’s seventy five year cinema snub by giving us, not just a superlative and accurate representation of the Themysciran Titan, but also THE greatest Superhero movie of… all… time! 

(Favourite Superhero movie runners up – Batman v Superman, Aquaman, Shazam)

Our Favourite Comic-Book Artist: Amanda Conner

I have been reading, collecting and immersing myself in comic-book worlds since the mere age of six, my first dalliance with a Superhero was the Batman, from there I went on to discover the thrilling tales of the Themysciran titan Wonder Woman and have, over the decades become a devoted stalwart of DC Comics. Not being content to just absorb these wonderful stories of heroism and emancipation, I was also always interested in the compelling creational process behind the formation of these thrilling and titanic tales, from the literary scripting and especially the wonderful artistic endeavours.

From an early age some of my very favourite artists included such luminary delights as – Neal Adams, Brian Bolland, Nicola Scott, Emanuela Lupacchino, Norm Breyfogle and Adam Hughes. Picking a favourite from these amounted to an impossibly herculean task… that is until I discovered the astonishing art of one Amanda Conner. From that point on anyone enquiring as to who my all time fave artist was would not be able to shut me up as I enthused and rhapsodised over her astounding artwork. Quirky, zany, fun and instantly recognisable, Amanda’s incredible artistic style (for me) stands head and shoulders above her peers.

(Favourite Comic-Book artist runners up – Emanuela Lupacchino, Stanley Lau, Nicola Scott)

Our Favourite Non DC Comics Movie:

Mmmmm, now this is a difficult one, I mean sooooo many great movies have been released over the past ten years, how in the name of Zeus’ beard are we able to pick just one? We can’t, so here (in no particular order) are a few of our fave non DC Comics based films of the past decade…

Valerian and the City of a Thousand Planets:

A tremendous movie conversion of the classic French comic-book ‘Valerian and Laureline’ that was first published in 1967, created by the talented duo of Pierre Christin and Jean-Claude Mezieres. Stunning effects, decent acting (though Clive Owen, who is usually great, was rather uninspiring in this one) and an engaging, wild and zany plot make this definitely one of our top fave films from the past ten years.

Alita: Battle Angel:

Another comic-book classic given the silver screen treatment, Alita is originally a manga series created by the great Yukito Koshiro in 1990. A post apocalyptic, cyber-punk stylised story that was brought to vivid life at the talented hands of Robert Rodriguez.

Groundbreaking visual effects bring android Alita to the big screen through some jaw-dropping motion capture of the movie’s phenomenal lead actress – Rosa Salazar, who puts in an outstandingly impassioned performance, and with a back up cast that includes such thrilling thespians as Christoph Waltz, Jennifer Connelly, Maershala Ali, and Jackie Earle Haley, Alita is more than deserving of your free time.

Franklyn:

British cult movie ‘Franklyn’ is a genre defying delight, part superhero saga,  noir thriller, romance, and horror, it takes great pleasure in flouting any kind of atypical filmic categorisation.

Franklyn is a visually rich movie, set across the dual dystopian parallel dimensions of Meanwhile City and contemporary London. It is within these dark, ethereal realities that we encounter four protagonists, each a lost soul, and on an intertwined and fated path to ultimately affect each others lives, be that for good or ill.

Unfortunately, as is the case with a large number of movies emanating from the UK, Franklyn never achieved the audience or status that it truly deserved. With a standout cast that includes Eva Green, Bernard Hill, Sam Riley and Ryan Phillippe, Franklyn is a film the Precinct heartily recommends. We reviewed the movie at the time, so if you find your interest piqued, then a link to our review is right here  

(Non DC Comics movie runners up: Dredd, Halloween 2018, Super, Solomon Kane)

And there you have it, fellow fans of fantastic fiction, I mean we could go on, but then this post would end up novel length, and I only have so much time to get it published before the end of 2019! With that, may I just say a big thank you to all of the Precinct’s followers and readers for the likes, comments and visits to the site over the past five years, it really is so, so appreciated. Happy New Year to you all!!

Oh, and as ever… Make Mine DC!

DC Women Of Action

DC Comics have a long and storied history of female characters, be that hero or villain, DC have been regaling their fans with fantastic tales of inspirational women overcoming adversity and empowering their readership for decades. Though the most obvious comes to mind, that of feminist icon and groundbreaking creation that is Wonder Woman, DC have, probably, the largest roster of super-females in their progressive catalogue than any other company… most of which have been in continuous publication, within their very own monthly series, for over seventy years.

Wonder Woman, Supergirl, Catwoman, and Shea Fontana = MUST BUY!

Shea Fontana, the author behind DC Superhero Girls, Wonder Woman: Heart of the Amazon, and Batman Overdrive took to Twitter recently to announce her newest project for DC Comics – DC: Women Of Action. This hardcover, 176 page book celebrates the greatest female creations that have emerged from the Superhero publishing giant over the past eighty years. The beautifully illustrated tome profiles the most independent and popular female heroes and villains and the real life female authors and artists who have proven a fundamental and intrinsic reason behind their continued success.

The book will feature such paradigmatic characters as Wonder Woman, Catwoman, Batgirl, Harley Quinn, Power Girl, Black Canary, Starfire, Hawkgirl, Amanda Waller and many, many more exemplary creations that have graced us with their empowering presence over the decades, all wrapped up in a must buy volume which is available from your local comic book emporium from October 22nd. 

Well, I know I’ll be purchasing this titanic tome when it releases in October, who else is with me, fellow fans of fantastic female fiction…

V-Log1313: Delightfully Dazzling And Distinctly Decorative Donna Troy Statue Unboxing

Hey there fellow agents of Precinct1313, and a warm welcome to another episode of – V-Log1313. You may remember a few months back we posted a vid of a stunning Starfire statue based upon glorious George Perez’s dynamic design which ultimately formed part of a multi statue set comprising the Teen Titans from a Perez classic 1980’s cover, well, our Wonder Girl companion piece has finally arrived in the Precinct… so let’s set about unboxing everyone’s second favourite Amazon warrior – Donna Troy!

And here are the two statues together at last, and aren’t they just astonishingly adorable!

Plus a look at just a part of the Precinct’s superlative shelf of superhero statues…

Thanks for watching fellow fans of fantastic fiction, our next unboxing video will star the bombastic bombshells variant of Batwoman! same Bat-time, same Bat-channel…

And why not follow the Precinct at it’s official Facebook page right here: Precinct1313

Precinct1313’s Top Ten Favourite Feisty Female Fighting Furies…

Mmmmm, we haven’t dared to tread the perilous path of the infamous Top 10 list so far here in the darkest depths of Precinct1313, never really gave the idea of doing one much thought to be honest. That is until recently, when blogging buddy ‘The Vintage Toy Advertiser’ rendered his very own (and really rather amusing) Top 10 masterclass (which you can indulge your senses in right here) that we thought, suffering sappho, let’s do one of them there list things then, and thus…

Precinct1313’s Ten Favourite Furiously Fierce Femme’s Fatale

NB: This list will contain both fictional and non-fictional wildly wondrous warrior women for your delectation…

No.10 – Big Barda

No list of vivacious virago vixens should ever be without the formidable presence of fighting fury and thorn in Granny Goodness’ side – Big Barda, for she truly encompasses everything to love about powerful, vibrant female characters who are easily able to match and (in most cases for Barda especially) surpass their male counterparts. How tough is Barda? we’ll let the picture below answer that query…

No.09 – Lara Croft

Quintessentially British acrobatic archaeologist Lara Croft has been raiding tombs, securing ancient artefacts and performing perilous platforming since she was first unleashed unto the gaming world by Core Design in 1996. Since that time she has become one of the most recognisable video-game characters of all time and sits proudly in the upper echelons alongside Master Chief, Mario and Sonic the Hedgehog.

No.08 – Moon Lee

I’m an 80’s kid, I grew up during that phenomenal decade alongside many classic onscreen action stars and martial artists, even as a youngster my preference was always female characters/fighters and one of the biggest influences for me then was the magnificent Moon Lee. Hong Kong action star supreme, Moon Lee Choi-Fung starred in close to a formidable fifty films during her heyday of the 1980’s!

No. 07 – Batwoman

Kate Kane’s Batwoman alter ego first debuted in the 1956 issue of Detective Comics #233 created by Bob Kane and Sheldon Moldoff. Initially created as a female counterpart and love interest to the Batman, Kate has over the past sixty years (thankfully) shed that unfortunate creation calamity and has now become one of the biggest and most beloved of female comic book characters, with a much needed revamp and resurgence through the hand of artist/writer JH Williams III. Reversing the inauspicious and unenlightened conception and delivering a new standard for empowerment in the burgeoning female Superhero market.

No. 06 – Catwoman

Though most Bat-fans see The Joker as Batsy’s biggest foe, for me personally the character that inhabited that perch was always anti-hero cat burglar Selina Kyle. Though Mr J is without a doubt the bigger threat to the dark and surly one’s psyche, Selina holds something over Bats that the jester of genocide never, ever could… his heart. She has been Batman’s most enduring love interest since her inception in Batman #1 in June of 1940… puuuurfect!

No. 05 – Cynthia Rothrock

As previously mentioned some of the biggest influences on me growing up were the plethora of fantastic fighting females that occupied the realms of martial arts cinema, and my most beloved and admired is none other than scintillating Cynthia Rothrock. American born Cynthia is quite possibly the most successful female martial arts master in history – she is five times world champion in weapons and forms and currently holds an astonishing seven black belts in varying martial disciplines! She has also starred in over fifty movies throughout her career, and has acted alongside greats such as Sammo Hung and Michelle Yeoh.

No. 04 – Batgirl

Though the Batgirl name and costume have been inhabited by several different women over the years, the most beloved and well known is assuredly the second holder of the bombastic bat mantle – Barbara (Babs) Gordon. Replacing original holder of the title – Bette Kane (who was created in 1961) Babs debut was in 1967, daughter of Gotham Police Commissioner James Gordon and head of Gotham City Library. Her auspicious crime fighting career began with a triumphant save of Bruce Wayne from a kidnapping plot wrought by SuperVillain Killer Moth, and cemented her place in Bat history!

No. 03 – Elvira – Mistress Of The Dark

Elvira may not be a martial arts action star or female fighting force but what she definitely is, is a sensation of female empowerment and positive attitude. A strong, outspoken comedienne who used her innate sexual prowess to turn the tables on mysogynynistic and prejudice laden media from her first appearance courtesy of actress Cassandra Peterson in 1981. Self deprecating and dripping in risque double-entendres, her campy humour has propelled the voluptuous vixen vamp to celebrated cult status, and beyond!

No. 02 – Starfire

Fiery alien princess – Starfire has been a favourite of the Precinct since she was first unleashed in the pages of DC Comics Presents #26 in 1980. Created by the legendary pairing of comic book royalty – George Perez and Marv Wolfman, Koriand’r instantly became a much beloved character and mainstay of The Teen Titans. Hailing from the planet Tamaran, Kory escaped the ravaging of her home by Tamaran enemies The Citadel and her own feuding sister Komand’r (aka – Blackfire) and made a new life for herself on Earth. She is currently the leader of the Teen Titans and founding member of Justice League Odyssey alongside Jessica Cruz, Azrael and Cyborg.

No. 01 – Wonder Woman

Well, if you’ve been following the Precinct for any length of time then you probably knew that the Themysciran Titan would, of course, occupy the titular top spot, and hey, guess what… you were right! I’ve been a WW fan since I was around nine years old, she truly is the greatest fictional female character in my mind, and has the distinction of having the most significant and profound effect upon female empowerment of any fictitious persona ever created. Her genius creator William Moulton Marston first envisioned the Amazon warrior princess in 1941, when she took the covetous cover appearance on All Star Comics #8. Marston was a supporter of the Suffrage movement of the 1940’s, of whom his own wife Elizabeth was a founding member.

All hail the wondrous one!

If you’ve managed to stay the course of this list, then thanks fellow Agents. Who are some of your personal favourite female furies of all time? let battle commence in the comments below…

V-Log1313: Stunning Starfire Statue Sizzles Salient Satisfaction…

Hey there fellow Agents of Precinct1313 and welcome to another episode of V-Log1313. Now, you may remember in a previous vid we unboxed the astonishingly adorable Amanda Conner variant of our favourite fiery alien Princess- Starfire, well this episode we shall be delving into the world of one of her legendary co-creators, glorious George Perez, with a sterling statue based upon his astounding artwork from a classic comic cover of the consummate 80’s title – The New Teen Titans. And so, without further ado, let the unboxing commence…

Thanks for watching fellow fans of fantastic fiction, our next unboxing vid will star the one, and only – Donna Troy, also known as Wonder Girl! so stay tuned for in one short month Donna will be Golden Lassoing her way into the Precinct’s vicarious video vaults in readiness for her placement on the fabled Superlative Shelf of Superhero Statues!

Precinct1313’s Four Year Anniversary Special…

 

“Oh hi there, it’s fantastic to see you, fellow Agents, welcome to Precinct1313’s celebrated Comic Crypts, so glad you could make it, I hope it wasn’t too much of a chore finding your way down here… I mean, the Precinct is an interminable enigma, so it can be rather difficult at times to negotiate it’s measureless depths, yet, here you are.”

And so, welcome fellow Agents of Precinct1313 to our four year anniversary celebrations, that’s right, the malefic mansion of mystery first materialised unto this plane of existence in the space year of 2014, and thanks to all of our followers, readers and fellow bloggers we still find ourselves relaying the news and views of our beloved DC Comics, and beyond…

Very soon we shall wend our way through the Precinct’s incalculable corridors and chambers so we can celebrate in style in the infamous Halls of Quaffing. Before that though let’s pay a visit to The Scrying Chamber and stare deeply into the sanguine depths of its fabled black crystal ball so we can relive our favourite posts from the past 4 years. This will be the first of two posts with chapter III of “In Pursuit Of Precinct1313″ appearing later this week, and with it, maybe, just maybe, the answers to the mysterious portal from last year’s cliff hanger ending. Now, on with the show…

So, let us begin our journey with one of our most recent posts, which was also the auspicious debut of our first ever YouTube unboxing video… “V-Log1313: Amanda Conner – Starfire Statue Unboxing” which can be partaken in… Right Here

2017 was the year that we first debuted our “World’s Finest” interview series, where we deigned to interview some of comicdom’s most treasured – Superheroes, SuperVillains, Costumed Crimefighters, and Dimension Dwelling Demons. It has proved a rather large hit for the site, with the Harley Quinn episode scoring the largest amount of hits… that said the most difficult yet most fun to write was the ‘V’ episode – so why not settle down and vividly valuate V’s valorous vocal verve once more… RIGHT HERE

 

“Comic Cover Of The Week” has been another marvellous mainstay of the Precinct, though with so many commendable and cool covers released each and every week it can be hard to recommend just one, so we’ve included two of our most recent favourites – “Harley Quinn Anniversary Special” which you can peruse… RIGHT HERE  and the monumentally mouthwatering – ” Mister Miracle #5″ which you can scrutinise… Right Here

 

Wonder Woman and Batman continue to be the core pillars that sustain the edifice that is the Precinct, between the two of them they hold the record for most posts published by this mysterious mansion, but which articles do we hold most dear? In Diana’s case it would have to be – “Classic Wonder Woman: 75 Years Of The Awesome Amazon”  which is available to study… Right Here  and as far as Gotham’s grim guardian is concerned then it’s definitely – “Batman v Superman: Grudge Match” which can be undertaken – Right Here

Phew! there is such a rather large amount of decidedly delicious DC documentation that we have dutifully delivered that we could honestly be here all day! So let’s finish this celebratory collection conjuration with some honourable mentions… “Great British Comic Book Characters – Zenith” which can be tackled – Right Here  Yet another Harley Quinn classic… “Harley’s Little Black Book #6 which can be rediscovered – Right Here  and last but most definitely not least, a post from waaaaay back in 2014 from the Precinct’s (very) occasional co-writer Rageypeep (aka – Pete) with this post from “Euro Gamer Expo 2014”  which can be experienced – Right Here

And may we say once again a massive thank you to everyone that has supported Precinct1313 over the past four years, our appreciation for all our followers, readers and fellow bloggers is quite honestly, stratospheric. 

Oh, and as ever… Make Mine DC!

Precinct1313 V-Log: Amanda Conner – Starfire Statue Unboxing

Welcome fellow agents of Precinct1313 to our first ever V-Log, that’s right, the Precinct’s infamous sacred sanguine sofa shall bear witness to an unboxing of epic proportions (well… it’s definitely an unboxing, epic may just be a little too grandiose, but hey!)

But before you dive into the video itself, a couple of things should be noted…

1. My hands are in no way, shape, or form professional actors! In fact if they were to star in a movie it would more likely be some terrible B movie nonsense from a company like Full Moon or something! (Please note: we love B movies and especially love and own virtually all the movies released by Full Moon!)

2. Whilst preparing the camera for the unboxing, my colleague and I said: “Why don’t we go all bohemian and idiosyncratic, and do it all in one take!?”  Mmmmmm, then again, it may just have been the fact that we had rather a large amount of untouched beer and a brand spanking new copy of Batman and Harley Quinn on Blu-Ray to indulge in after we finished the filming… Ok, Ok, it was the second reason!! (which is to say – the video was done in one take, so please forgive any inherent amateurism on my part. Though the camera work and audio by my colleague Pete is rather fabulous!)

Enjoy…

 

Thanks for watching fellow agents, and if you’re not already, why not follow us on our official Facebook page for fun and profit – (Oh Ok, there’s no profit, but we do guarantee some fun!)

All of the stunning statues in this vid were purchased from my very favourite UK based comic book emporium – Final Frontier.

Starfire, Wonder Woman, and Killer Frost are copyright: DC Comics.

Comic Cover Of The Week: Teen Titans #16

“Why do you do this to me DC… why!?”  *shakes fist angrily at sky*  “I mean, don’t I already buy enough of your monthly comics, trades, statues, t-shirts, action figures, posters, toys etc, without you tempting me with yet another astonishing piece of cover art on a title that isn’t even included in my mammoth monthly haul!”

Oh hi there, you may have caught me having a slight rant there… sorry about that, but you see I have just got back from my bi-monthly visit to the local comic-book emporium to pick up my staggeringly huge pile of monthly titles (I actually buy so many that whenever the shop’s proprietor sees me coming, he smiles with contented glee at the prospect of closing the shop early because I have almost wiped him out of DC merchandise… again!) Now, usually after handing over my life savings to the comic-book guy, I peruse the shelves before leaving, and what do I spot… a  sensational Starfire cover on this months Teen Titans, dammit, it’s Starfire which means I am under an obligation to buy it… *sobs into wallet*

Don’t get me wrong, I really do like the Teen Titans, but I just don’t have enough money, time, or space to buy everything, so certain monthlies I have to begrudgingly let go, and Titans is one of those… yet, I love the character of Starfire so much, that I am predisposed to buy literally everything that she’s involved in. Luckily this specific Titans issue is a standalone title, a one shot story, meaning there is no need to read the previous fifteen issues to understand what in X’Hal is going on… so, phew!

The other reason, apart from the sterling cover that made me HAVE to buy this particular Titans issue, is the fact that one of her co-creators… the legendary Marv Wolfman is the writer for this issue, and ooh, it’s a doozy, believe me…

An unseen villain has taken over the citizens of San Francisco with one target in mind… Starfire! Can Kori and her teammates figure out a cure for the masses before they lose control of their minds and bodies forever? Find out in this one shot epic by the mythical Marv Wolfman!

Starfire, Teen Titans and all images are copyright: DC Comics.

 

The Week In Geek… With Precinct1313

Welcome fellow agents of Precinct1313 to another episode of  ‘The Week In Geek’ where we love to share our favourite – Comic Book, Video-Game and Cult movie news for your perusal and pleasure. And so once more unto the geek, dear agents, once more…

Don’t Fret Batfans, Ben Affleck Is The Batman…

Rumours do not make for great news, let’s be honest. I have to wonder how some of the larger geek websites (read: corporate… though corporate and geeky are two words that really shouldn’t go together!) ever made it to the top of the proverbial nerd pile when such rookie mistakes as reporting on an ill informed rumour as if it were fact happens, especially when, less than 24 hours later they have to retract said articles after finding out that… hey guess what… IT WAS A RUMOUR! Phew! 

The latest victim of inadequate fact awareness is Matt Reeves’ much anticipated upcoming adaptation of the masked manhunter – Batman. Several rumours surrounded the Dark Knight’s newest solo escapade this week, first and foremost that Batman v Superman star Ben Affleck had stepped away from the role as the Caped Crusader, and also that the movie itself was a standalone effort not tied into DC’s burgeoning shared cinematic universe, thankfully neither were true.

In response director Matt Reeves took to twitter to answer the rumour mill:

 

To clarify the point, Reeves’ Batman adaptation retains Ben Affleck as its lead, and will be part of the larger DC extended universe, but, it will primarily be a movie about Batman… no surprise there then considering IT’S A BATMAN MOVIE!! If dearly departed 60’s Bat actor Adam West was still with us he would definitely be reaching into his utility belt for his Anti-Rumour Bat Spray about now!

Raging Joker!? Legendary Director Martin Scorsese In Talks To Produce A Joker Origin Movie…

The Joker is quite possibly the most infamous comic villain of all time, and has seen many onscreen interpretations of his maniacal character over the decades, from Cesar Romero’s 60’s version through to the more recent Jared Leto rendering. Warner Bros are currently in talks with legendary film director Martin Scorsese (Taxi Driver, Raging Bull, The Departed) to produce an origin tale for the clown prince of crime… a highly unexpected but rather awesome piece of news indeed!

Because the film will delve back into The Joker’s past, a younger actor will be portraying the mirthful maniac, which obviously precludes Jared Leto from reprising his role. But fear not Leto-Joker fans (myself included here)  Jared has confirmed that he will be stepping out as the murderous maniacal maestro once again in a new movie that will centre on Mr J and his long suffering partner in madness Harley Quinn in what Warner Bros are calling a “Criminal Love Story”. I’m envisioning Oliver Stone’s “Natural Born Killers” with Woody Harrelson and Juliette Lewis’ roles recast as Harley and her puddin’… now that would be cool!

Titans Live Action Series Has Found Its Starfire…

We absolutely adore Starfire here in Precinct1313, which you probably already realise if you’re long time reader of the site. And when news hit that DC are in the process of creating a live action television series based upon the iconic team of teen superheroes, we were overjoyed at the idea of Koriand’r getting her first non animated debut on the small screen, and now it’s a definite reality as “24: Legacy” star Anna Diop has been cast in the role of the Tamaranean Princess.

First Wonder Woman And Now A Live Action Starfire!? Could Life Get Any Better…

The Titans series is being produced by sensational scribe Geoff Johns and TV writer/producer Greg Berlanti, and will debut on DC’s upcoming digital showcase channel. Anna will join already announced fellow cast member Teagan Croft, the Australian actress cast as the mystical Raven. Excitement overload in three… two…

Why not join us again next time friends for more Week In Geek

The Week In Geek… With Precinct1313

Welcome fellow agents of Precinct1313 to another episode of ‘The Week In Geek’ where we love to share our favourite Comic Book, Video-Game, and Cult Movie news for your perusal and pleasure. And so once more unto the geek dear agents, once more…

Great Hera! New Wonder Woman Trailers Are Fantastic…

“Suffering Sappho”  do you realise, my amazing Amazonian associates, that we are just a mere 34 days away from the release of the most important film in female Superhero history! That’s right, Gal Gadot’s starring role as the original and most influential female comic-book character of all time approaches, and we are feverish with anticipation!! To really hype up our excitement (not sure if possible, already so excited, our heads may explode!) Warner Bros have released two new trailers showcasing the upcoming legendary film, and by ‘The Horns Of The Mighty Minotaur’ they look fantastic, bathe in their awesomeness my friends…

 

 

Teen Titans Live Action Is A GO!…

That’s right, fellow fans of fantastic fiction, the long awaited live action TV series of DC’s premier teen Superheroes and sizzling sidekicks is finally on it’s way! Not only that, but it will be headlining DC’s new digital streaming service alongside season three of ‘Young Justice’. There were plans for TNT to originally produce a show based upon the tremendous team of teens, but this was scrapped, most likely in favour of this new show, which is being produced by superstar comic scribe Geoff Johns, and DC/CW engineer Greg Berlanti. The press release also mentions a few of the team’s line up, which will include – Nightwing, Starfire (yes, yes, YESSSS!!) and Raven. We shall bring you more news on this as we hear it.

Live Action Versions Of Wonder Woman And Starfire!? Life Doesn’t Get Any Better Than This!!  Our Hype Meter Has Just Hit Saturation Overload!!!

Why not join us again next time friends, for more Week In Geek

World’s Finest – An Exclusive Interview With Starfire

Welcome fellow agents of Precinct1313 to the inaugural episode of “World’s Finest”, this series will be introducing you to our favourite convocation of comic-book characters, of, all, time!

Every episode we will cast our celestial spotlight on one of our most treasured Superheroes, Supervillains, Costumed Crimefighters, Dimension Dwelling Demons, oh and… Super-Pets (because everyone loves Krypto, right!?)  

Who’s a good boy then Krypto, but it’s not your turn just yet.

So let’s begin our passionately personal preference of peerlessly popular paragons with… Princess Koriand’r of Tamaran, or more popularly known as “Starfire“.

Behold the scorchingly sizzling Superheroine, Starfire!

So take your seats fellow fans of fantastic fiction and let’s acquaint ourselves with this episode’s extra special guest star…

“Interview Me!? Really?… I’m Assuming Wonder Woman Wasn’t Available…”

Precinct1313: Hi Koriand’r, and thanks for joining us at Precinct1313 for our first ever episode of World’s Finest!

Starfire: Thanks so much for inviting me, it sure is an impressive structure.

Precinct1313: It surely is a marvellous mystery of malevolent and majestic mansions.

Starfire: Uh, do you often talk like that?

Precinct1313: It’s a, uh, thing I do, alliteration is king here.

Starfire: Well I’m all for individuality, I am an alien to this world after all.

Precinct1313: You are indeed, from the planet Tamaran, I believe.

Starfire: That’s correct, a beautiful peaceful planet, that is, up until it’s destruction by The Blight.

Precinct1313: An awful tragedy, yet you seem to have found your feet here on Earth.

Starfire: I have always had my feet, they weren’t here on your planet but at the end of my legs.

Precinct1313: Uh, it’s sort of like a saying, you know, an aphorism…

Starfire: Aphorism? Ooooh, are they like related to the Aphorians from Quaxxel 7?

Precinct1313: I have literally no idea what you are talking about.

Starfire: Sigh… yeah, that happens a lot, did I mention I came from another planet.

Precinct1313: Yes you did, anyway can we start by asking actually who, in DC’s pantheon of creators was your particular favourite chronicler of your amazing adventures?

Starfire: Oooooh, we’re really breaking that fourth wall here huh, I would say,by far, the astonishing Amanda Conner, such an amazing talent.

Precinct1313: Agreed, she really is fantastic. Now, your initial introduction to the world of DC was in 1980 in – DC Comics Presents #26, did you feel nervous during your debut?

Starfire: Mmmmm, not really, I mean I was lucky to have been created by two of comicdom’s most prolific architects, marvelous Marv Wolfman and glorious George Perez.

Precinct1313: Ah yes indeed, they really are comic book royalty, if I can maybe get a little more personal, during your tenure with the Teen Titans, you were engaged in a rather passionate liaison with fellow member Nightwing, also known as Dick Grayson, former Robin to the Batman. Do you miss those halcyon days from your past?

Starfire: I do and always shall love Nightwing, he was my first real relationship here on your beautiful blue planet, but I don’t lament what was, I celebrate what is.

Precinct1313: Mmmmm, profound. You recently starred in a 12 issue series by the aforementioned Amanda Conner and astounding artist Emanuela Lupacchino, it has actually become one of my favourite comic book runs of all time, and was a particular hit with your fans, to what do you attribute it’s success?

Starfire: Mainly down to Amanda’s peerless writing talent, I find she knows me better than most creators, I mean, it’s almost like, she’s inside my head.

Precinct1313: Well, she sort of is…

Starfire: Oh yeah, ha ha, of course, comic book character and all. Sorry, it’s not too often I have to breach that fourth wall, it takes some getting used to.

Precinct1313: I understand, well Koriand’r it’s been fantastic having you as a guest on World’s Finest and we wish you all the best for your future in crime fighting capers and planet saving escapades.

Starfire: It’s been a literal blast, uh, how do I get back to my reality from here again.

Precinct1313: Yours is the second universe on the left.

Starfire: Ooooh, *hugs*.

In our next episode we shall be joined by the azure avenger, Ted Kord more popularly known as the second hero who has held the mantle of The Blue Beetle. Until then.