Comic Book Creator #31 Summer 2023 (magazine review).
The first article in question, “Marvel’s Folly Of 1972” by Jon B. Cooke, examines the fascinating tale of rock promoter Steve Lemberg. Against all odds, Lemberg acquired the rights to everything Marvel for a relatively small sum from Chip Goodman. This situation culminated with Lemberg’s involvement in the “Stan Lee At Carnegie Hall” event in 1971, a time when I had stepped back from comic books.
Reflecting on this now, I find it somewhat incredible. While America often prides itself on its entrepreneurial spirit, the dubious tactics sometimes employed do raise questions. How can so much business be conducted without proper due diligence and carefully designed contract clauses? It seems almost unbelievable, a sentiment echoed by Stan Lee himself when he eventually read the contract and found it lacking a success rate clause. In essence, the entire system rests on the foundation of ownership rights and intricate contracts, so if you’re proficient at navigating them, you’re indeed fortunate.
Frank Borth (1918-2009), a comic book artist, was a contemporary and friend of Reed Crandall. Viewing his art presented here, one can easily appreciate his talent. Cooke interviewed him in 2003, and his art samples displayed here truly stand out, showcasing a clear indication of meticulous research behind each piece. I am eagerly awaiting the second part of this intriguing feature.
Greg Biga conducts an interview with Dan DiDio, the manager of Frank Miller’s suite of comic books, in which Miller plays the guiding role for various contributors.
The central piece of this issue is a comprehensive interview with comic book artist Graham Nolan, spanning his two years at the Kubert Art School, staggered over three years. Many may know Nolan as the creator of Batman’s nemesis Bane, but his career is far more extensive. Upon leaving DC Comics, he worked on newspaper strips for over a decade. Today, Nolan runs his own comic book company and maintains a steady output. He is undeniably industrious and productive.
This review may seem shorter than usual, but that is unintentional. After all, how can one adequately describe such exquisite art? So, don’t miss out.
GF Willmetts
July 2023
(pub: TwoMorrows Publishing. 82 page illustrated magazine. Price: $10.95 (US). ISSN: 2330-2437. Direct from them, you can get it for $10.95 (US))
check out websites: www.TwoMorrows.com and https://twomorrows.com/index.php?main_page=product_info&cPath=98_132&products_id=1756
