New York Comic Con wrapped up late Sunday, and while much of the news coming out of the Javits Center is strictly for those whose bedrooms are decorated with Boba Fett collectible figurines, there are a few announcements that just might excite those in the mainstream. Here now, the top five news tidbits for civilians:
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1. The Whedonverse expands!
What is it? Dark Horse announced that next January it will begin publishing “Serenity: Leaves on the Wind,” a continuation of writer-director Joss Whedon’s cancelled TV series “Serenity” and the follow-up movie “Firefly.” It will be written by Joss’s brother Zack.
Why should normal folks care? For the fans of the property, this is the next best thing to having it return to the air. Whedon (of “The Avengers”) also helps produce popular comic series featuring the continuing adventures of two other cancelled series: “Buffy the Vampire Slayer” and “Angel.”
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2. Parker novels — with pictures!
What is it? Publisher IDW announced a plan to release new versions of author Donald Westlake’s hard-boiled Parker novels supplemented by illustrations from Darwyn Cooke.
Why should normal folks care? These new books are as good of an excuse as any to discover Westlake’s noirish books, and Cooke’s 1950s-style artwork meshes perfectly with the stories.
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3. One of the greatest Japanese series of all time returns!
What is it? “Lone Wolf and Cub,” the story of an assassin on the run with his young son in feudal Japan, is considered one of the finest pieces of manga ever produced. The 28-volume series has been adapted into several movies and a Japanese TV series. It’s also influenced numerous Western audiences. Next year, Dark Horse will be publishing a sequel to the 1970 original written by co-creator Kazuo Koike.
Why should normal folks care? Complex, beautifully drawn and well-researched, “Lone Wolf and Cub” appeals even to non-manga fans, and a sequel should help it win over a new generation.
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4. A series from the writer of “The Sandman” finally gets completed after 20 years!
What is it? “Miracleman,” a dark superhero comic written by Alan Moore (of “Watchmen”), was first published in 1982. Moore left the series after issue #16 and handed the reins to Neil Gaiman, the celebrated fantasy author who would go on to create “The Sandman.” Before Gaiman could finish his story, however, publisher Eclipse went bankrupt in 1993. The ownership of the character and reprint rights would remain tied up in legal red tape for two decades. Now Marvel Comics appears to have sorted it all out and will finally allow Gaiman to complete his tale, as well as reprint the early Moore issues.
Why should normal folks care? Like “Watchmen,” “Miracleman” is one of those series that is so influential, its republication is sure to draw mainstream attention. Plus, Gaiman has loads of mainstream fans.
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5. New York Comic Con is now just as big as that other convention
FilmMagic What is it? For the first time in its six-year history, the 2013 New York Comic Con surpassed Comic Con International in San Diego in terms of attendance. Some 130,000 folks (most dressed in elaborate Joker costumes) filled the aisles of the Javits Center during the four-day event.
Why should normal folks care? Well, if you live in New York or nearby, it means the Con is going to be a force for years to come. It also means that, for better or worse, movie studios, publishers and TV networks will be increasing their presence and making more news out of New York.