Comics have historically been given a bad name. Coming out of the pulps in the 30s and 40s they have been viewed as childish, violent, deviant, trashy, etc. The Comic Code of 1954 didn't help that cause and instead pushed comics even more into the realm of "just for kids." (Much like the stereotype shared by cartoons and animated movies today).
But ever since the mid eighties, comics and their more sophisticated relative "the graphic novel" have started to become a more mature and intellectual medium, taking their themes from such subjects as the political concerns of the age or the literary greats, such as Shakespeare. (Yes, that Shakespeare.) There has been a large movement in comics that has begun to move away from the superhero motif into realms of horror, fantasy, sci-fi, romance, mystery, and general fiction. Did you know that Persepolis, V for Vendetta, Watchmen, Constantine, Sin City, A History of Violence, Wanted, Red, and Scott Pilgrim vs. The World were all comics before they were movies? Even some popular TV shows, including The Walking Dead and Human Target, got their start in the comic medium.
Comics and graphic novels have the potential to be just as important and influential as the best novels, films, and television shows. They just need their fair share of respect and acknowledgment. And that is what I am here to do. Through this blog I will share my thoughts on some of the best writing and artistry in the comic realm today. You can do your share by realizing that comics can be more than men in tights beating up bad guys and entertaining the kiddies. Walk into a comic store and pick up something worth reading. More than likely, you'll be glad you did.
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