Reluctant as I am to begin an article with “In these hard economic times,” I’m afraid I’ll have to take the hit. In these hard economic times, especially on a college student’s budget, even a measly 3-or-4-dollar price tag can prove an obstacle to picking up a new comic. Fortunately, I’m not the only one to recognize that.
This Saturday, the Ninth Annual Free Comic Book Day sees that obstacle demolished. The momentous occasion, which takes place the first Saturday of May each year, offers a wide range of special edition, done-in-one issues, free of charge. For any comics reader, there’s a pretty broad selection to choose from. Any of the books solicited are free, and you can take one of each title, at least at nearby Comix Revolution, starting at 10 a.m. this Saturday. Here’s a breakdown of some the more intriguing titles offered.
Iron Man/Thor: Fans of the movie may want to pick this up. The issue teams two of Marvel’s premiere superheroes, seemingly in anticipation of their new Avengers title. Bound to be light, the title features the artwork of John Romita, Jr. (Kick-Ass, Spider-Man) as well as the considerable writing talents of Matt Fraction (Invincible Iron Man). If that’s not enough Iron Man for you, there’s always Iron Man: Supernova, which teams the Armored Avenger with intergalactic space-cop Nova. Why not, right?
War of the Supermen #0: This issue kicks off the weekly Superman event running through the month of May. Also known as the 100-Minute War, the mini pits hordes of powered Kryptonians and humans against each other, even throwing Brainiac into the mix. Sounds explosive, to say the least.
Various Preview Books: If you’re looking for a series that’s a bit less mainstream, you may want to check out some of the teaser books from independent publishers. Aspen and Dark Horse both provide, offering readers Worlds of Aspen and Doctor Solar/Magnus, respectively. Each book features bits of ongoing series from their publishers, and are sure sure to provide a good, if brief, look at some lesser-known characters.
Irredeemable #1: The first installment of Kingdom Come scribe Mark Waid’s acclaimed series expands further upon his themes of superheroes straying from the path. Featuring the world’s greatest superhero, the Plutonian, driven to murder, the title presents a scathing examination of the modern superhero.
S.E. Hinton/Fame: What’s this? A Lady Gaga comic? Well, sort of. Half of the book is about Lady Gaga, taken from the new biography series FAME, while the other half contains a series of excerpts from famous novelist S.E. Hinton’s (The Outsiders) various comics work. Still a definite win for Gaga’s fanbase, though.
Green Hornet #1: Starring the titular character from Eternal Sunshine-famed director Michel Gondry’s upcoming film (featuring Seth Rogen and Christoph Waltz), this comic, from writer Kevin Smith (Clerks, Zack & Miri Make a Porno), presents Smith’s own reinterpretation of the gabby vigilante and his classic wit.
Sonic the Hedgehog: “Hide & Seek & Destroy” looks to be a light little story, reminiscent of the character’s ‘90s TV show(s). Bound to be simple, the book should be fun for the more nostalgic Sonic fans.
Toy Story: This is pretty much what it sounds like. Something of a hook for Toy Story 3, this book looks ideal for anyone missing the ‘90s a bit. Similarly wistful fans may want to check out the new reprint of The Tick #1, G.I. Joe #155½ and The John Stanley Library. Not to mention Archie’s Summer Splash! #1. Retro, huh?
If these titles don’t quite do it for you, then don’t worry — there’s plenty more where that came from, and the Free Comic Book Day website includes previews of nearly every title featured, making it easy to find something to suit your taste. With just a seven-minute walk from the Arch separating you from free comics, there’s really no reason not to give comics a shot this Saturday. Let’s face it — you’re bound to find something.
