The Taffeta Darling

Mock-Yeah, Ing- Yeah, Jay- Yeah, Yeah- Yeah! (tee-shirt)

2012-02-13T13:38:00.004-06:00

“Winning means fame and fortune.Losing means certain death."
i've lost plenty, and i mean plenty! luckily i've won too, so i'm still alive! and while alive i'm going to keep searching, finding, and wearing incredible do it yourself finds, especially random tee-shirts that pay homage to books that i've enjoyed. today's creative DIY etsy store spotlight totally does that.

erin kerley of bend, oregon runs the etsy store *geek chic artist*. she's making awesome stuff, for people who well, like awesome stuff. she's crafted a -Hunger Games / Mockingjay- shirt on a comfy grey tee, available in all sizes.

wear this shirt cuddled up by a window reading, or bust it out for the film's opening night. it's a simple yet cute design, and not everyone will get the connection; which means it'll be easier to know the folks that you'd rather not talk to.

$15.00 + shipping and it's all yours. may the odds be ever in your favor!

be on the lookout for unicorns shooting lazer-beams, portal 2, chihuahua-cthulhu and more by clicking here.

HEY BROTHER,~~~~~~~~> GET OVER HERE!

2012-02-09T12:23:00.001-06:00

happy THOR's day , folks! as usual i'm working hard at hardly working, so i thought i'd continue on in my many attempts at searching the innerwebs for random stuff i don't really need.

thank goodness i did, or i would have missed this most excellent Mortal Kombat/StepBrothers mash up. and since i love ~~sharting~~, sharing here, here i go...

it was designed by kent cribbs and is available through redbubble in a 16.4" x 23.2" print, which you can find here.

You can find about a thousand other video game inspired posters and
tee-shirts at redbubble.com.

TEENAGE MUTANT NINJA TURTLE OVEN MITT POWER!

2012-02-06T11:48:00.000-06:00

Today's most excellent DIY item from etsy comes in the form of a *Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtle* oven mitt. I would totally use this functional AND bodacious mitt to avoid a mad heat burn while baking a delicious cheesy pizza.

Dee Ryan of DeeZignz etsy shop, is a director for a Women and Children's service line at a local hospital. She says her sister was the one who talked her into making the oven mitts and it surprised her at how popular they are. She never expected that they would sell so fast. The purses she's made have done pretty well too, but tend to sell before she lists them on the website. Dee's relaxation comes from making items for her site and recently started designing ipad bags which will soon show up on the site.

You can loooove being a turtle for $13.00.

to view other kitchen fun items such as her Carebear and Supergirl coasters, Batman and Thor bottle coozies and more, please visit her store at http://www.etsy.com/shop/DeeZignz .

Winged Retro Receiver neatOh necklace find!

2012-02-01T13:22:00.000-06:00

a sucker for an original piece of jewelry, i am. it's difficult for me to find necklaces, rings, and broaches that i like, and even more so, items that will add to an outfit rather than detract from it.

this winged retro t.v. necklace ($11.99 us dollars) totally caught my attention. it's simple, but will look most amazing paired with my favorite skinny jeans, t-shirt and cons. uber fun piece.

i happen across Kitsch Bitch Jewellery, a ridiculously cute etsy store from creative crafter Kerry Callaghan, of Glasgow City, Scotland. she loves "all things cute and pink but she is also inspired by B-Movies, horror,and zombies".

aside from the winged t.v. necklace, there's more than meets the eye when you click on her shop. she offers a variety of necklaces, earrings and broaches in the themes of nintendo, disney, and sweet treats, to name a few. check out her reasonably priced items here.

EVIL DEAD MOVIE DECOR: Hardware aisle twelve, shop smart, shop S-Mart!

2012-01-27T15:13:00.003-06:00

so i'm always looking for a neatOh addition to my "lair of intimidation"
(and yes it is intimidating, right down to the unicorn clock that creeps in the seconds watching you, swaying from side to side).

while searching random etsy stores for more ways to clutter my home, i came across a different way for a fangirl (or boy) to express some love for the evil dead trilogy.

the husband and wife team over at *Geekopolis* offers an embellishment of the alternative kind.

Check out these stitched up quotes framed and ready to hang in your cubby hole, topographic point , man cave, hide out, abode, dwelling, habitation, castle.... for the SMart price of $25.00

you can find more unique items by clicking here, also check out their blog http://www.g33kopolis.com./ as they post items, their own and suggestive, there regularly as well.

COMIC REVIEW the beast of chicago: the murderous career of h.h. holmes.

2012-01-17T19:56:00.002-06:00

this book is part of writer rick geary's (National Lampoon, Mad, Rolling Stone, Heavy Metal) ongoing non-fiction comic book series titled - A Treasury of Victorian Murder. The Beast of Chicago is the sixth volume in the series.

in case youre unfamiliar with the subject matter, Herman Webster Mudgett also better known as Dr. Henry Howard Holmes, was one of the first documented American serial killers within the modern sense of the term. He was also a con man, and he kept several wives and families.

during the 1893 World's Fair in chicago, Holmes designed, built and opened a hotel in which he had designated as his personal labyrinthine chamber of horrors. while he confessed to 27 murders, of which four were confirmed. his actual body count could be as high as 200 as he took an unknown number of his victims from the that years World's Fair.

this graphic novel was the perfect medium to explore Holmes' "Castle," .... (which was) a maze of secret doors, airtight rooms, gas chambers, and ovens where he disposed his victims.

Holmes' traveling cons, bigamy, and murder spree was criminally ambitious to say the least, but building an elaborate murder castle really shows how today's serial killers are kinda slacking.. JOKING!

Geary's interpretation of details drawn from old newspaper reports and courtroom drawings are awesome. his rendition of the Castle’s mysterious second floor, with all its secret passageways and deadly rooms are even more incredible. ex- asphyxiation chamer, hanging room,

geary places holmes against the glowing electric lights of the fair and does a great job at presenting the "history and myth" surrounding Holmes's ever-changing aliases, schemes, co-conspirators, families, and victims. i think the inherent complexity of the tale reduces many of the episodes and I wish he had settled into some of the details of the story more, especially the characters. It has a slightly less well developed plot in this book but that may be in relation to the extent of his crimes were never really uncovered ,much less a time line for most of them. But it was chilling story none the less.

The black-and-white artwork comparisons to Edward Gorey (in theme and style) are inevitable. but geary's work has a stylish and engaging feel to it: very clean lines and good use of space. This macabre tale prob better suited for older readers who are fans of murder mysteries, or true crime.

thanks to brett hampton for this most excellent gift!

PRESS RELEASE FROM IMAGE COMICS Prophet Relaunch Sells Out Before Release Date

2012-01-16T14:28:00.001-06:00

MAN OUT OF TIME
Brandon Graham and Simon Roy's Prophet Relaunch Sells Out Before Release Date

Brandon Graham and Simon Roy's brilliant re-imagining of Rob Liefeld's PROPHET doesn't hit stores until Wednesday, but it's already sold out at the distribution level today. Image has announced a second printing of PROPHET #21 is being rushed to press as back orders for the first issue of the Extreme relaunch continue to grow.

Kicking off an all-new era for Rob Liefeld's Extreme titles, PROPHET #21 opens with John Prophet awakening from cryosleep in the distant future on an Earth that has been inhabited by alien settlers. His mission is simple: Re-start the human empire. Critically acclaimed KING CITY creator Brandon Graham heads up the visionary new creative team on PROPHET, with up and coming artist Simon Roy (JAN'S ATOMIC HEART) providing the breathtaking visuals. The first issue features a painted cover by Russ Manning Award winner Marian Churchland (BEAST, ELEPHANTMEN), plus a variant cover by Rob Liefeld. The second printing cover will feature an all-new image by Roy.

"This is one of those situations where I hate to say something as glib as 'We told you so,' but in the nicest way possible: We did," said Image Comics Publisher Eric Stephenson. "There's been review after glowing review, along with rousing endorsements from the likes of Warren Ellis – it's not a secret Brandon and Simon have turned in a brilliant first issue. It's always nice to be able to say orders on a book have continued to climb post-FOC, but personally, I think it's better to actually have books on the stands.

"We're going back to press on PROPHET #21 to help retailers grow their orders on this excellent new series, but I'd recommend taking a second look at orders on issue #22 and GLORY #23, as well. PROPHET only gets better from here, and for it's just the tip of the Extreme iceberg."

Added Graham: "I'm really looking forward to being able to do all the barbarian science fiction ideas we've got planned for this series. The freedom Rob and Eric are giving us to take this character and run off the board with it has been fantastic."

PROPHET #21 (NOV110358), a 32-page full-color comic book for $2.99, is on sale in stores and digital platforms this Wednesday, January 18, while supplies last. The second printing of PROPHET #21 (NOV118136) is now available for reorder and will be back in stores the week before PROPHET #22 (DEC110566) hits on February 15.

ABOUT IMAGE COMICS
Image Comics is a comic book and graphic novel publisher founded in 1992 by a collective of best-selling artists. Image has since gone on to become one of the largest comics publishers in the United States. Image currently has five partners: Robert Kirkman, Erik Larsen, Todd McFarlane, Marc Silvestri and Jim Valentino. It consists of five major houses: Todd McFarlane Productions, Top Cow Productions, Shadowline, Skybound and Image Central. Image publishes comics and graphic novels in nearly every genre, sub-genre, and style imaginable. It offers science fiction, romance, horror, crime fiction, historical fiction, humor and more by the finest artists and writers working in the medium today. For more information, visit www.imagecomics.com.

PRESS RELEASE FROM IMAGE COMICS: WITCHBLADE'S NEW START

2012-01-04T17:44:00.001-06:00

New information from TOPCOW/IMAGE Comics on Witchblade! Check out the press release, cover and previews below:

Witchblade Moves to Chicago and Invites New Fans To Join Her:

The New Year brings a slew of fresh starts and Witchblade bearer, Sara Pezzini, is no exception. Pezzini will start 2012 in Chicago with a new job and brand new life, thanks to the fresh ongoing creative team of Tim Seeley (HACK/SLASH) and Diego Bernard (The Man With No Name).

Sara Pezzini has always been a born and bred New York City detective, in addition to wielding the ancient Artifacts, the Witchblade. That all changes with WITCHBLADE #151, the first issue by Seeley and Bernard, which finds Pezzini living outside of the Big Apple for the first time in the series history and working as a private detective. The mystery of how and why Sara is in Chicago, as well as what else has changed about her situation, will drive the story and reader interest for the coming year. This issue kicks off the 5-part story arc, entitled “Unbalanced Pieces,” in which Sara must find a way to balance her new role in the Windy City.

"WITCHBLADE is a dream project or me: A great character, an epic art and editorial team, and an important legacy in the history of comic books!" said Seeley. "Top Cow is giving me an awesome opportunity to reintroduce Sara Pezzini to new fans, old readers, and to a whole new setting!"

WITCHBLADE #151 is the first issue in Top Cow’s REBIRTH, an initiative spinning out of the end of the ARTIFACTS event, which concludes in ARTIFACTS #13. REBIRTH will provide ground-level entry points for each of Top Cow’s Universe titles - WITCHBLADE, THE DARKNESS, and ARTIFACTS - and ushers in a bold new age of story-telling to coincide with Top Cow’s 20th Anniversary. In addition to containing the full first story by Seeley and Bernard, the issue will include a five page bridging sequence by Ron Marz (MAGDALENA) and John Tyler Christopher (ARTIFACTS) and an ongoing prose story backup feature by Seeley.

WITCHBLADE #151 is a 32-page full-color comic with no ads for $2.99, and will be available in comic stores and digitally today. This issue ships with two wraparound covers by regular cover artist Christopher. For more information, please visit www.topcow.com.

PRESS RELEASE FROM IMAGE COMICS: THE MANHATTAN PROJECTS DESTINED TO BLOW UP

2011-12-08T14:32:00.001-06:00

Hickman & Pitarra's New Ongoing Science Fiction Debuts in March

– What if the union of a generation's brightest minds like Albert Einstein and Robert Oppenheimer was not a signal for optimism, but foreboding? What if everything… went wrong?

In the year 1945, the atomic bomb proved its capacity for immense devastation, but what if the creation of that ultimate killing machine was just a cover for a series of other, more unusual, programs? A brand new, monthly ongoing series from Image Comics will pose that question by taking a look at one of the most critical periods of change in the 20th century through a lens both darkened and strange. Join us, for what is poised to the breakout hit of 2012, THE MANHATTAN PROJECTS!

Award-winning writer Jonathan Hickman (THE NIGHTLY NEWS, FF) and one of the best new talents to debut in comics during the last year, Nick Pitarra, are teaming up once again to present THE MANHATTAN PROJECTS. Following the completion of their critically acclaimed science fiction success, THE RED WING, the duo are taking the cautionary aspect of science fiction and applying it not to the future, but to our past!

"I think anyone that's followed my work knows about my affinity for near-future/alt-history, and THE MANHATTAN PROJECTS pretty much represents the crown jewel of all the stories I've ever cooked-up in that vein," detailed Hickman. "Honestly, if we do this right -- and at this point in the process, it sure feels like we are -- I think this might the perfect example of why I do these stories: It takes a world everyone knows, and blurs the lines between fiction and reality in a way that makes you question where one ends and the other begins. I can't wait for people to read it!"

"Jonathan is a great collaborator, he really sees the page as an artist first," explained Pitarra, "With THE RED WING and with this new series, his guidance has meant everything. I have freedom in the layouts and planning stages, but I know that with him, as careful a storytelling as he is, if he suggests a change the page always comes out better. It's good to work with a writer you can trust."

THE MANHATTAN PROJECTS #1, a 32-page full-color science fiction comic book for $3.50, will be on sale in stores on March 7 and available for order in the January issue of Previews. In the mean time, both THE RED WING TP (OCT11047, ISBN: 978-1-60706-479-4), a 144-page full-color trade paperback for $14.99, & THE NIGHTLY NEWS ANNIVERSARY EDITION HC (SEP110423, ISBN: 9978-1-60706-4619), a 272-page full-color hardcover graphic novel for $34.99, will be on sale in stores December 14.

PRESS RELEASE FROM IMAGE COMICS: Hardcover Graphic Novel from Jimmy Palmiotti

2011-11-23T18:05:00.001-06:00

QUEEN CRAB IS A REAL CATCH-

In February, Jimmy Palmiotti (Jonah Hex, THE PRO, and upcoming CAPTAIN BROOKLYN) presents a distinctly off-kilter story of one woman's life as it transforms from hopeless monotony... to crustacean nightmare!

QUEEN CRAB is an original hardcover graphic novel full of revenge, lust, violence, and insanity, with themes reminiscent of Kafka's The Metamorphosis. Told in the tradition of such masters of surreal, suspenseful storytelling as David Lynch and Steven King, QUEEN CRAB is about a young woman dealing with the insanity of the world around her, and trying to keep her head above water!

Palmiotti has until now always had a co-writer on his books, but QUEEN CRAB will be his first foray into writing solo. Palmiotti has brought some talented artists on board, including award winning illustrator Sas Christian providing shockingly beautiful cover art and interior artist Artiz Eiguren. With Amanda Conner, Paul Mounts, and many more providing pin-ups, QUEEN CRAB will at once be the most beautiful and most dreadful to behold!

"For me, getting someone with the right skills for the job was mission number one and when I was introduced to Artiz’s work," said Palmiotti. "I felt it was the perfect style to capture the emotional beats, the storytelling I was looking for, and a style of drawing that we don’t see very often in American comics."

"When Jimmy pitched this to me in San Diego, I was pretty blown away," said Image Publisher Eric Stephenson. "He had the whole book there, printed out, and I just couldn't stop reading. In the past, Jimmy has always collaborated with other writers, but my strongest reaction was along the lines - 'What took you so long to start writing on your own? This is brilliant!' It's one of the most intriguingly twisted stories I've read in a long time, and I love it!"

QUEEN CRAB is all about Ginger, a twenty-something office worker in Brooklyn who has been living her life one boring day at a time. Unsatisfied with her lot in life, she has decided to settle down, and finally marry a guy that is clearly head over heels for her. On her ill-fated wedding night aboard a cruise ship, her new husband reveals his true nature... when he attempts to murder her! But that's only the beginning of Ginger's troubles as she wakes up the next morning naked on the beaches of Coney Island…altered, to say the least.

QUEEN CRAB HC (DEC110483, ISBN: 978-1-60706-505-0), a 64-page full-color hardcover graphic novel for $12.99, will be on sale in stores and on digital platforms on February 1, and will be available for order in the December issue of Previews.

Prof Challenger and The Taffeta Darling present to you, fun with John Pike, the Pepper Spraying Cop.

2011-11-23T14:59:00.005-06:00

i've been addicted to these images of top douche-a-roo, John Pike the "Pepper Spraying Cop". he's been super-imposed going throughout the world and time, ruining moments and unleashing his militant orange stream of fury..

so between the Prof and I, here are some "other" moments this villain has managed to cause disarray to.
cheers!

for anyone who ahs not been following the news, facebook,twitter, tumblr, blogs, radio... etc etc

here is the video that these images are in reference to.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ys1gPp2Gkow

Image Comics and Skybound Entertainment To Release Deluxe Slipcased The Walking Dead – Rise Of the Governor Novel

2011-11-23T12:03:00.002-06:00

THE GOVERNOR GETS DELUXE TREATMENT

Berkeley, CA – 22 November 2011 – Are you looking to impress THE WALKING DEAD fan in your life this holiday season with the perfect gift? Well, you're in luck! That's right, holiday shoppers need look no further than their favorite comic book retailer to purchase the deluxe, leather bound, slipcased hardcover edition of the New York Times bestseller, THE WALKING DEAD – RISE OF THE GOVERNOR NOVEL by series creator Robert Kirkman and co-writer Jay Bonansinga.

"Many have asked me whether I will ever write a prequel about the lives the character lead before," said Kirkman. "Well, that's basically what we're doing with these novels. And we wanted to offer the fans a special edition before the holidays."

To make the gift even more impressive, this deluxe edition will feature spot illustrations by series artist Charlie Adlard. Comic book readers may wonder if there's any better way to improve upon a novel than by adding pictures. Well, there is! There is also an even rarer, super deluxe edition that will also be signed and numbered by Kirkman!

THE WALKING DEAD – RISE OF THE GOVERNOR NOVEL is the first in a planned trilogy of novels based on the characters introduced in THE WALKING DEAD comic book series. RISE OF THE GOVERNOR sheds light on the true origins of The Governor, the most vile and deadly villain yet to appear in THE WALKING DEAD comic book series. Now fans of the comic book and AMC's record breaking TV adaptation can discover the transformation of one man into a monster with this special deluxe edition!

THE WALKING DEAD – RISE OF THE GOVERNOR NOVEL: DELUXE SLIPCASED EDITION (OCT110517, ISBN: 978-1-60706-482-4), a 336-page novel for $74.99, will be on sale in stores on December 7, along with the limited signed & numbered edition (OCT110518, ISBN: 978-1-60706-483-1) for $124.99.

"born with a mystery book in her hand".

2011-11-16T08:20:00.000-06:00

for every convention i attend, i attempt to have a new con suite made for each day of said convention; the sad thing about this is that i will usually wear the costume only once after it's been created. one of the things i adore doing after retiring a costume, is a photoshoot with my best boys at the Neither Noir Studios. we spend about 6 hours on a saturday shooting 3-4 different costumes. the finished product is usually a "comic book" or "graphic novel" style cover, it's pretty much what NNS excels at. On occasion they've been known to allow me to combine my costumes and my love for retro pin-up fun.

my attempt is simple, but heartfelt. below is the most recent image worked on by Neither Noir Studios.

Interview on the deLOL show in deep ellum texas

2011-10-16T16:04:00.001-05:00

So last week i had the utmost privilege of calling in and speaking with my good pal and fellow geek culture enthusiast, del pullen, aka Del Pickle.
He has his own show on the deep ellum in air video station. TOO COOL!!
You can find his show by clicking here

Below is the video of his debut live show and I am so proud of how well it went. Guests include Keith Colvin of Keith's Comics, and myself. [my interview starts around the hour and 20 minute marker]

Video streaming by Ustream

SKS Cosmetics Bash! with MC Taffeta Darling!

2011-10-11T15:34:00.011-05:00

with fan days behind me, i turn my focus to the SKS COSMETICS birthday bash. one year has passed since sks burst onto the faces of local starlets in the dallas, fort worth, and austin areas. the color composites are bright, rich and have bitchin' original pallet names like: rapture, vertigo, rabies,voodoo, corrosion and my personal and almost exclusive color- phoenix.

all quite cleverly packaged and defined. A tag line for one of the eye powders is for the color Red Eyed Fly[ pictured below]:"This metallic-raspberry color is as mischievous as a night on the infamous Red River Street in Austin, Texas. A dark bordello red brings out the Red River gutter slut in you,angel."

a lot of hard work, energy , sweat and blood [ really, blood!] have gone into this business and it's no wonder the best dancers, bands and artists want to be there to celebrate and wish SKS Cosmetics a HAPPY BIRTHDAY!

i'm hosting and MCing the event, which i've never done before.... but i'll have the microphone and you won't *SO YOU WILL LISTEN TO EVERY DAMN WORD I HAVE TO SAY.....* i cant promise i'll be as good as robbie hart, but i will most def give it my all as i introduce local beauties such as Angela Ryan, Sassy Delure, and Riley Doright. These gals will be striping down and shaking their tassels in your general directions. Artist Drew Edwards will be there promoting his comic book Halloween Man.

Also, the good folks from ShoNuff Studio will be there with prints and pencils in hand, i hear tales that special day of the dead, calavera style prints may be on hand.

musical ambience provided by the bands: burning avalanche, and hot crush. i'm seriously excited to be apart of what will be a memorable event for Shelly and SKS Cosmetics. i'll be painted up as a calavera, and my attire for the evening is being provided by HELLKITTEN ORIGINALS!! i can not wait to see what they come up with. Check out her swanky powders by clicking here-

Nocoa Blue:Bright. True. Blue. Nocoa is definitely a head-turner.

Red Eyed Fly:This metallic-raspberry color is as mischievous as a night on the infamous Red River Street in Austin, Texas. Dark bordello red brings out the Red River gutter slut in you,angel.

rystall sant make up break down.

2011-10-11T15:07:00.000-05:00

star wars fan days has come and gone, and 2 days later i'm still exhausted and incredibly sore. there's something about anxiety and holding it all in the nerves, as to when i finally release it, and take that breath, it takes days to exhale out my body and mind.

dont mistake complaining for complete unhappiness. i was incredibly honored and stoked to cover the fan days for g4's attack of the show. i know this was an incredibly unique situation. it's unlike writing in my blog about a con and perfectly content with the idea that no one may ever read it. it's freaking attack of the show, at least a few thousand people will be watching, judging and giving wanted or unwanted feedback.

with that in mind i enlisted the very the best make up and hair stylist i know- LaDonna Stein of drop dead gorgeous. it took over 3 and a half hours to get this ready. with hair glue smushing the front left and right sides of my hair down we used a bald cap to cover both sides. there was a cut down the middle of the cap that allowed for us to use split it slightly wrapping around my face while cutting ear spots. more spirit gum, and some latex to give a nice flat appearance for the hairless horn parts. after gluing the cap to my head we glued each horn in alignment of the one on the other side of my head. we teased the heck out of my hair, causing a most bodacious fro. the make up was applied with an air brush, covering my chest, arms, face, neck and head to give me the light colored pink skin to play host to the purple spots. the facial make up was right on, again i knew i had the best gal for the job. below is the short scenario that lead to a most bitchin' final product.

I'm quite happy with how it turned out. black mariah was the seamstress for this creation, and i am glad she was able to knock this out in such a short time frame. this was my first star wars costume and i wanted something slightly out of the ordinary and obscure, so i took on the challenge of this special edition max rebo band dancer. i am so thankful for all the support and good words that were thrown my way while in this costume. i'm a very thankful gal.

i'll have my official blog review on the fan days convention up soon; word is G4 wants to air it next week.

I'm ready, promotion... er FAN DAYS!.

2011-10-07T12:34:00.005-05:00

So this weekend brings one of my favorite cons of the year STAR WARS FAN DAYS!!! Produced by those wonderful folks of the Dallas Comic Con. This will be the second convention housed at the newly consecrated Irving Convention Center. For those of you who attended this summer's DCC, you already appreciate how much roomier our new fanDOME is.

With 3-4 floors of geektastic fun the ability to cater to fans out of town and local is off the hook. The down stairs is pretty much dedicated to merchant booths and artists tables, which makes me happy, because more space equals more artgasms. All of my favorite Texas artists will be in attendance. Terry Parr, and Halo Seraphim of ShoNuff studios, Jon Hughes, Jason Chalker, and Michael Champion. The aforementioned usually bring prints I can't live without. Nationals artists I'm excited to meet and bring home a lil something of theirs are Kerry Gammill, Greg Horn, Joe Linser, Tim Hodges,Alex Buechel and Joe Corroney. Hello paycheck- GOODBYE paycheck!

What makes this special to me personally, is that i will be covering this event for the G4 Network's ATTACK OF THE SHOW!!! Yeah that's right, this fangirl will be in costume interviewing media guests, artists and local patrons. So please join me in making our own Kessel run to this uber fantasmagical extravaganza that celebrates all things star wars, comics and most importantly FANS!

and a lil eye-candy teaser of what my costume will be for saturday.. 50+ geeker points to whomever gets it right!

WHEN?
October 8-9, 2011
Saturday 11:00AM - 6:00PM, Sunday 11:00AM - 4:00PM.

WHERE?
Irving Convention Center 500 W Los Colinas Blvd Irving , TX (At intersection of 114 and NW Highway). Click for map.

HOW MUCH?
General Admission $20.00.

Parking is available onsite and in nearby lots for $5.00. Shuttle service will be provided.

Swamp Thing #1 [Reboot] Review

2011-09-21T17:36:00.005-05:00

swamp thing #1 review
scott snyder- writer
Yanick Paquette- art

When DC announced the full New 52 I did what i'm sure most fans did which was grumble first and then with hesitation go through the title list to pick out the ones that appealed to me. when i heard about the swamp thing reboot, i was stoked! finally i would have the chance to start fresh with a character that had been around for years with numerous sagas, but had overwhelmed me. thus far the new 52s have been a success to me. i get to start over with swampy and a few other characters that i knew nothing about but had much interest in. so here is where it gets shameful, I never knew creepy vegetable dude originated from the same place that Superman did, 4RLZ. Most of my Swamp Thing knowledge came from the live-action movies and the t.v. show. [shut up] Up until recently, I really had no clue Swamp Thing had origins in the DCU. So please forgive me comic pals, as this is totally new to me.

Swamp Thing #1 begins with Batman,Superman and Aquaman encountering a similar problem. Starting off- right here with these characters is a totally smart way of giving me, a most uninformed reader, a sturdy foundation of the time period. There's a tedious introduction to Alec Holland, the typically unknown alter ego of the big swampy beast. Holland narrates who he is, and how his other side is no longer part of him. In part of the intro process we get a visit from Superman, who is questioning Holland on a series of mysterious animal deaths happening across the country.

We get this iconic interaction which was neat to read as Holland bounces his personality off of an established hero such as Supes. Holland describes that he woke up a few weeks back in the swamp with memories of being Swamp Thing, but is no longer the creature. Now, finally back in to being human, Holland has been able to perfect his Bio-Restorative formula, the one that initially caused him to turn into the leafy beast. [reminds me of another greeny from a different universe]

So much time is invested in, [ i guess ] of the much-needed reintroduction of Alec Holland, that Swamp Thing takes forever to show up. When he does it's pretty neat and it leaves me wondering what role does Mr. Big and Leafy play in the rebooted universe?

writing- 4 of 5
i can only recall reading one other title by scott snyder , which i reviewed a few weeks back, Flashpoint: Project Superman. He is also penning the new Bats title that is coming out. So far to me, he has proven himself as a capable writer with this most excellent script beating with mystery and meaning. It's a decently done comic that eased me as a new reader into the story at a careless but fascinating pace. Im sure that respected long time fans will appreciate the nod to some of the continuity, as well.

art- 4.5 of 5
Paquette with's colorist Nathan Fairbairn, brings beautiful detailed montages throughout the book's panels. Holland's world is lush, yet deadly. There’s a beautiful rendition of Holland’s origin as Swamp Thing, a humbling appearance by the Man of Steel, and this yet to be named "Eeep-ish" threat. Paquette shows off more of his talent toward the end of the issue in particular with a scene which introduces the presumed antagonist. This new bad guy, whoever, or whatever it is, is one of the gnarliest beings I've seen outside of a horror comic. It made me curious as to whether i was reading a horror, sci-fi or superhero comic. These efforts are most definitely complimented by John J. Hill’s lettering that delivers a most uneasy dialoge.

Don't Drink and Podcast....[ or do?]

2011-09-21T12:35:00.005-05:00

last week i was completely happy when i found out that one of my oldest innerweb pals, Atom!, was still in town and wanted to have lunch with me and my girl Shelly. We started drinking around 3:30 and after about 5 stellas, margaritas, jager and strawberry infused tequila shots.. this review was me at my best, err worst?

Click here to listen to the September 16th *Just Sayin' w/ the Taffeta Darling* segment on the Loud Idiots podcast. [about 12 minutes into the show]

mad thanks to Atom! and Shelly, who are both terrible terrible influences on me, even though i bought the shots. <3 luv to you both.

MAD THANKS of course, to the Loud Idiots for their never ending patience and ability to endure the nonsense that is my flight by night way of living.

Tiger Darrow- You Know Who You Are, CD review

2011-09-21T11:31:00.001-05:00

rarely do i sway away from my normal medias to review. however, this CD got under my skin in a way music hasn't been able to do so in at least 7 months. i am so thankful to allen hayslip for introducing me to the music of tiger darrow. this girl is incredible, creative, and funny. not to meantion off the wall talented. she wrote, produced and recorded this record at her in-house studio.
click here to listen to my audio review of her CD "you know who you are" , from the september 6th Loud Idiots podcast, just right after the break, about 30 minutes in. this album is a must for those in need of good new music that'll speak directly to your heart.

Truly wonderful, the mind of a child is.

2011-09-07T17:02:00.002-05:00

[and even more beautiful when paired with a custom star wars outfit]

so there we were hanging out, james and I, talking about his soon to be born niece. he couldnt decide on what to get her then somehow star wars came up [which happens more often than not] and he decided he wanted his niece to be a little r2d2. holy driodballs i flipped out and thought this idea had to happen. a friend of mine who has made two of my costumes, popped into my head. i promised james that i would figure out a way for his niece zoey, to be r2d2.

the next evening i called up black maraiah of Fastenating Things - www.blackmariahdallas.squarespace.com - and shared with her the idea of a custom r2d2 onesie for james' niece. she finished up the oneise just in time for the birth of baby zoey. aaannnnd she even threw in a beanie for the babe in form of the r2 top.

i felt the need to share although i did nothing more than make an idea manifest with the help of an excellent seamstress. at the moment zoey is 2 weeks old, but you can dang guarantee that i'll have updated photos as soon as she can attempt to fit into this masterpiece.

MLnR <3 !-taff

Girls of the Con- Cosplayer of the month -August

2011-08-17T21:55:00.000-05:00

This month I was excited to know that Girls of the Con has picked me as their girl of the month.

neatOh interview and photos can be viewed at the website Girls of the Con

thanks so much to Jason and Girls of the Con

www.girlsofthecon.com

Dr. Sketchy's Austin: Conan the Barbarian

2011-08-08T09:15:00.002-05:00

- MORE LIVE MODELING AND LIFE DRAWINGS WITH DR. SKETCHY'S AUSTIN !!

From the Austin Sketchy's webpage here

August 14th: Prepare yourself for Conan the Barbarian – presented by Austin Books & Comics, produced by Dr. Sketchy’s of Austin. Join us as we welcome to the stage live Conan and two Red Sonja models.

Courtesy of Austin Books & Comics, our Conan model is competitive body-builder Joe Solinski from Dallas, TX. Joe will be replete with heavy iron weaponry and leather gear! Comic book cuties Taffeta Darling and Danni Danger will model as Red Sonia.

Prizes for the evening from Austin Books & Comics include Conan merch, free Regal movie passes, Dark Horse Comics/Conan posters, and much more!

Dr. Sketchy’s Anti-Art School – the premiere alternative drawing movement in Austin – features costumed live models, prizes and booze! All kinds of artists are welcome, from the complete amateur to the advanced. Open to everybody! You’re a terrible artist? Who cares! Don’t forget to bring your own drawing materials.

$10 admission, payable thru paypal at Austinsketchy.com (see button to your left) or at the door the day of the event.

Check out the facebook event page here

"What in Samhain Just Happened?!" review

2011-08-08T08:53:00.000-05:00

STORY BY: Peter David
ART BY: “Dapper” Dan Schoening
IDW

I enjoyed this new adventure with characters that I’ve loved since I was young. There were so many neat references, and I still find new ones with each revisit. All in all, I'd give it a 4/5.

David’s story is pretty much right on; it's straightforward, no big twists. This one shot is your general Ghostbusters scenario; it's a haunted house with a slightly creeptastic owner who needs the Ghostbusters to handle business. [Almost like another ghost solving team that’s one of my faves -mystery inc. ]

Switching back to the Ghostbusters’s; we find Janine in the building, she is perfectly written, her snappy attitude oozes off the pages. Of course we have Peter, who’s written as the smart-ass, and Ray is trying to keep the piece, it’s the “youshh” [usual].

I especially liked this since the story throws the spotlight mainly on Janine. The Ghostbusters are here, and most of them get a chance to shine a little. The story takes a different road when the Ghostbusters refuse the homeowner; and Janine takes the job secretly to pay her bills. [she’s a working girl, yanno!]. She goes to the mansion to battle the ghosts only to find a tug- of -war with the other side. The Ghostbusters come to her rescue, but in her own way Janine does help the situation and in the end the entire Ghostbusters team saves the day.

Schoening’s art is carefree and brings this group to life, the panels float like animation cells. The faces burst with expression and the rest of the world is detailed, but not to the point to where it's overwhelming. Even if you think the story stinks, the art alone will keep ya smiling.

Side note---- Samhain from this comic used to be a daredevil/escape artist, I guess a Houdini type character and he is a new entity; not the much adored villain from The Real Ghostbusters cartoon. [ The one from TRG cartoon is the ghost of Halloween, and manipulates time while bringing eternal night. ]

Throughout this comic are neatOh references and nods to the whole franchise. Below is a list of what I’ve found so far:

A DJ holding a Ghostbusters album cover.
Janine's car has license plate referencing Zuul.
There’s a man dressed as Stay Puft 
Painting of Vigo !![You are like the buzzing of flies to him]
While at the party- Dana Barrett is wearing her red dress pre-demon dog.
A flying book which is Tobin's Spirit Guide.

Although not a movie reference- Peter Venkman and his date arrive as Red and Wolfie from the Tex Avery cartoons-CLASSIC!

“Roll for Initiative”

2011-08-08T08:15:00.001-05:00

[be sure to disable the playlist above when viewing!]

A few weeks ago The Taffeta Darling did a small cameo on the Variants Webisode “Roll for Initiative”. This is episode 4 from season 2. [keep an eye out for some random players around the 9.30 minute marker.]

An homage, not only to their friends at The Guild, but also to childhood friends and those nights spent around the D&D table.

In this episode we find our intrepid heroes on a dangerous quest to save their kingdom from the curse of the warble beast... and it's not going well. The Variants are in incredible danger and may not make it out of this enchanted land alive. Who is behind it? Who is pulling the strings and setting events against their favor? Maybe they just suck at rolling dice?

Check out all the Webisodes, here and at http://www.thevariants.com

Flashpoint: Project Superman

2011-07-20T07:09:00.001-05:00

Plot by Scott Snyder
Script by Lowell Francis
Art and cover by Gene Ha

So pretty much until now, the participation of Superman in the Flashpoint Universe has kept me on my toes grasping at the silence.Aside from the S-Shield in the Frankenstein tie-in, there hasn't been much to blurb about. And, in this narrators HO, Project Superman #1 isn’t very obliging in this regard. It does, however, give us new perplexities to mull over. Ask me if I’m hooked … well it’s only issue #1.

I’m assuming it takes place before Superman arrives to earth, in a menacing start with London ablaze and a hint at what might be two super like men fighting one another before flashing back to 30 years past, where Neil Sinclair is introduced as a blond, blue-eyed prospect for a military project to instil powers into a regular human. [uhmmm read this before, somewhere…] So with this issue we follow Lieutenant Sinclair whose code name is Subject Zero.

So the military is trying to create a super soldier, and with controlled testing, they bombard Sub. Zero with electron beams which create a variety of enhanced special powers. Sinclair adapts, evolves, and gains powers that closely resemble what we know as Superman, but starts to show signs of instability which isn’t supposed to happen during this controlled project. General Lane is overseeing this project but pulls away after Neil starts showing negative effects from the experiments.

Sinclair is sent off on a test run in with some enemies and after kicking much of his enemy’s ass, it’s clear to everyone that not only did Subject Zero destroy ‘em, but he also took his allies down in the process. Sinclair is now unstable and realizes this, so he decides to break out of his holding cell. This is when the shit hits the fan, the timing becomes perfect; now enter the arrival of Kal-El to Earth.

I tried to review this sans bias opinion; sadly the biggest problem with the story is that none of it is really that interesting.[ it reminded me of the marvels project with namor, Capt. and the first human torch]

It wasn’t until towards the end that i started getting into the weight of the story. There are some interesting scenes involving familiar faces but overall it’s a pretty bland setup to what is hopefully an important second issue.

The art was alright; Gene Ha's pages didn’t pop out at me nor was it unattractive. However; certain scenes in the book depicted the x-ray vision fabulously. I enjoyed that there weren’t tons of text boxes covering the art and most were easily relatable quotes. It’s a fun read with a decent flow but it still lacked a lot.

All in all, this is just a setup issue. Again, the story isn't that interesting, or original but the end of the issue shows promise for what's to come. This isn't a bad read, but it certainly won't mezmerize you.

Morning Glories #7

2011-07-18T15:56:00.001-05:00

Morning Glories is a series published by Image Comics. It is described by writer Nick Spencer as a cross between "Runaways and the show Lost", the series focuses on six exceptional but troubled new recruits at Morning Glory Academy. It's an illustrious prep school hiding "sinister and deadly " secrets. Seems like Harry Potter meets X-Men, tho. I dig, i dig!

I havent read the first six issues, this copy was sent to me by a buddy who thought i would enjoy it, which i did. After doing some research i found that the first six issues were a radical success for Image, Nick, and artist Joe Eisma. In this issue Zoe, takes front and center as the story starts with her as a young girl in India. From what i could gather, up to this point Zoe has been kin of this stereotypical cunt. However; this issue hopes to alleviate that with the new information, but really more questions are raised. So either she has the ability to read minds or just learns about the person from a point of contact. Also she might be some sort of angel child blessed with magical senses, with literal skeletons in her closet.

The issue has a lot of flashbacks which made it harder for me to know exactly what has been going on, [picking up the first 6 , pronto!]. This issue has a heavy plot to follow, and may be annoying to some readers, but i bet it'll kick balls to the wall when trades are available.

Eisma's art is ridiculously neat. This series is a righteous example of how perfectly suited the comics medium is to serialized storytelling. There are some parts where the bodies look stiff, and corked, but the facial expressions [ especially the eyes!!] were done quite fabulously.

If the first 6 issues have built up the mystery and intrigue that issue 7 has, then I'm most certainly going in for the trade.

Hellraiser 1 & 2

2011-06-27T10:21:00.001-05:00

These Hellraiser 1 & 2 reviews have been submitted and posted at Aint It Cool News.

Writer: Clive Barker & Christopher Monfette
Art: Leonardo Manco
Publisher: BOOM! Studios

So I must start off by admitting that I have no real history with Barker's HELLRAISER series. I do know that he wrote only the first flick of the franchise, which I have seen a handful of times. Before reading this comic I couldn't tell you what the little square box was for, or who and what the name of those dudes with the skin pulled back exposing their gnarly teeth are [I am now aware of the Cenobites, BTW].

After reading BOOM’s HELLRAISER #1, I feel much more adequate along with the rest of you gore and guts fans. With “The Pursuit of the Flesh” back in the hands of its original creator, Clive Barker revisits his characters with a chilling new chapter in the franchise’s lore. The chronicles told and imagery will transfix readers from the first flip of the page.

The story begins with an adolescent runaway girl ensnared in a white padded room, screaming to get out, yet no one is coming to liberate her. The room is dark when suddenly a light turns on to reveal a small box. Without real reasoning she is bound to this puzzle until she solves it and opens the inlet to Hell. Once solved, Pinhead and his gruesome Cenobites come forth on command. Obviously the girl screams and begs for mercy; however, Pinhead’s the OG of Master/Slave BDSM, and watches callously as the chains fillet the young runaway, tearing her flesh apart while painting the cell with her innards.

There is a pugnacious air sweeping the outside world. A group led by the Meddler are out to destroy these deadly music boxes while sending the Cenobites into an empty chasm. Pinhead most definitely welcomes this malevolent chess game and major players are coming into play. I am more excited to read the second issue than I previously thought. The writing duo of Barker and Christopher Monfette gives way for a new genesis of fans to leap into the storyline without disappointing long-time devotees.

Leonardo Manco’s imagination is something to revel about. His church organ made from the dead bodies totally reminds me of the Chapel of All Saints homed in the Czech Republic. Manco’s macabre and ghoulish visions exude a gory style that had me quivering for more. Presented with such coarse inventiveness, HELLRAISER #1 is packed with enough horror imagery to keep both old and new fans craving for more.

HELLRAISER #2 is another excellent issue. I’ve found before that when a series comes out of the gates ready for action, as HELLRAISER #1 did, the second issue will have some sort of downfall while it illuminates more of the story. Issue #2 maintains an esoteric cloak of darkness, but gives enough light on the key elements so that the readers are not lost during obscure peaks.

Duke Nukem Forever review.

2011-06-27T09:55:00.000-05:00

Duke Nukem Forever {2K Games, for the PC, $49.99 the Xbox 360/PlayStation 3, $59.99; }

Recently I was lucky enough to take part in the Gearbox release of Duke Nukem Forever. I remember this being the first computer game that I played as a young 8 year old gal. My Dad’s best friend had it on his IMB/PC , and each time we paid him a visit I would beg for him to let me get my game on. This assembly of my body and his computer convened regularly till I was 11.

It was no surprise to me that a new Duke Nukem was coming out this year. I was excited, thrilled and quivered with anticipation at the fact I’d get to be holding my stick hailing to the “King”, once again, but in 3D!!

I agree with those who say that the palpability that DNF actually made it to my local game store is an attestation of the industry’s insistence. I’m all about games in 3D, assuming they’re done in the style I can enjoy. Well, after being at the release party, and playing this game before the general public I stopped quivering and started groaning with disappointment. Really, I won’t be dazed if this game is definitely remembered as one of the biggest let downs of this year if not years. Let me break it down with the whys:

Controls:
Anyone familiar with shooter games should have no concerns with getting right into the game. The basic button employments are alright in regard to running and jumping, but the aiming pissed me off more than ever. There’s an obnoxious lassitude with Duke’s aiming. I’m not braggin; but I do well with shooters, especially well and tend to be accurate. Using Duke’s crosshair aim is pretty pointless and anesthetized. I found this out in just the first few minutes of the game.

Gameplay:
The game seems to take place maybe a decade later with the aliens back to have their vengeance by pilfering Earth’s [presumably] hot women. It’s pretty ridiculous and this storyline lost my interest quickly with my want to push forward to the next level.
Speaking of pushing forward; instead of progressing on from one stage to another, the shooting segments are copiously separated and had me roaming around aimlessly trying to find the next clue. I hate that, it turned boring, fast!
Again I found myself forcing the momentum. There’s some subjection to awfully long loading times when Duke runs out of his “Ego” [HP] during fighting sequences. Not to mention the hiding and waiting for those health points to power back up. I thought the fact that Duke has to run and hide to wait for his “Ego” to boost up was pretty lame, not so fearless. Now, there are some interesting [not so much enjoyable] skirmishes, including the bout with the Alien Queen, which again, is pointless and tedious. However; it does lead to an awkward and unsettling lap dance. The rest I won’t spoil, I’ll let you pick out highlights for yourself, if you make it that far.

Art Design/Graphic Styling:
Obviously they’ve jolted the graphics up on this version, but it no way stands on common ground with the likes of modern day shooters. It preserves the visual aspect of first generation xBox titles. It reminded me of a motion comic that had little variation to the maps. Even the Titty City of Las Vegas failed in detail, most uninspiring.

The voice acting isn’t too bad. I mean, I met the guy who does the voice and I totally got into his shtick. He has good energy and passion for the role. But alas, the over the top one-lines are either lifeless or in bad taste.

Moving on to bad taste:
When Duke accidentally kills a woman, he makes a remark which I thought was inappropriate and somewhat tasteless. There is another stage when Duke stumbles upon two ladies and they beg for their lives. Instead of saving them, he gives them a stupid explicit filled pun and watched them explode. I’m no prude and can play hard with the rest of the ballers but there is a point at which my liberal mind says “Just stop, dude”.

It is my opinion, and it is only an opinion; that Duke Nukem Forever is for neophyte gamers looking for mindless play. After 15 years of anticipation, hype and months of facebook posting; this game finally dropped and I’m totally sorry that I picked it up. Duke Nukem is now his own lampoon and I can’t imagine this “relic” being good for any era.

-The Taffeta Darling

Video and photos from the release party to come asap!

PLANET OF THE APES #1

2011-05-25T17:18:00.002-05:00

Find this review and reviews for the future issues at AINTITCOOL.COM

Writer: Daryl Gregory
Art: Carlos Magno
Publisher: BOOM! Studios
Reviewer: Taffeta Darling

First off, I adore the PLANET OF THE APES movies, all of them and their screwy timelines. I can watch these movies as a marathon in any order and still get a “first time watching” feeling. Naturally I was uber excited when I found out BOOM! Studios released these comics to coincide with the upcoming RISE OF THE PLANET OF THE APES.

Written by Daryl Gregory, this issue takes place before the BATTLE FOR THE PLANET OF THE APES. Gregory does an amazing job relaying the threatening balance between the humans and their coexistence with the Apes, as seen in the final movie. Carlos Magno creates this magnificent opening scene, full paged, with the Lawgiver being gunned down by an unknown bushwhacker. Instantly, I fell in love [I even got goosepimples!] and had the same feeling that the movies bring me.

Being that this is a first issue, and some readers may not be familiar with the movies or characters, the rest of the comic sets the tone with the discrimination between the ape City/State of Mak, and the humans area “Skintown”, while investigating the murder of the Lawgiver. The writing builds this tension by introducing the main characters as childhood pals from the opposite side of the tracks, so to speak. Both Alaya, the ape leader and the human mayor Sullivan, were raised by the now deceased Lawgiver. Gregory wrote this unyielding script that doesn’t end up in text and bubble form all over the pages. I can’t stand when fabulous art gets covered by text.

Magno’s meticulous labor can be seen in his creation of the cities’ blocks, buildings and this sort of polluted economy, the class difference between the two is immediately noticeable. I think his crosshatch work is perfect for this series.

It’s a favorable start to a new series regarding the PLANET OF THE APES world. There’s still some social interpretations inherited from the movies, but the real story here is a good old fashioned murder mystery that threatens the delicate peace between the apes and humans. PLANET OF THE APES #1 is potent writing paired with even more powerful art.

MARIJUANAMAN HC

2011-05-25T17:17:00.000-05:00

Find this review also at Aintitcool.com

Creator: Ziggy Marley
Writer: Joe Casey
Art: Jim Mahfood
Publisher: Image Comics
Reviewer: Taffeta Darling

Social activist Ziggy Marley rolled out his creation, Marjiuanaman, on 4-20-11. The character is based on Ziggy's idea, and represents "Hope of the future". The story was written by Joe Casey and inked by Jim Mahfood; however, it is stressed that Marley was involved in every experience of this over-sized Rasta-influenced graphic novella.

This action-packed hardcover broke the boundaries of my expectations with its illustrious extraterrestrial victor who presents himself to Earth to deliver an important message of hope. “Marijuanaman represents the hope of the future... the hope that we will utilize all of the power that the universe has given us to save our planet," Marley explains.

I geeked out hard to the non-conforming eccentrics of the art, particularly the use of the sound effects paired with the weird gestures and overly expressive facial designs.The designation of blues, greens and black colors splattered with the hot pinks and bright golds make it oh so memorable, so vivid.

This is a story that reggae fanatics who may not indulge deep into the comics realm will enjoy. I'm versed in the musical styling of Bob Marley and it's endearing to see many reminiscences to Bob's music and the Rasta culture in general. It reads and feels like a battle hymn for the legalization of the sweetleaf, but I recommend reading this special blend of reggae culture meets uber comic fun sans reefer if for the first time [only]. Marijuanaman hails from the planet Yelram (an anagram of “Marley”). Yelram‘s people are an advanced, progressive people. Instead of DNA, they have THC. When their supply of Ganja gets diminished, they send Marijuanaman to Earth. Marijuanaman‘s alter ego Sedona is welcomed by a community of progressive, some may say hippie-like people that grow ganja. Greedy extortionists prefer to sell an artificial substitute called Ganjarex instead of allowing the use of natural herb, pitting the peaceful community of Exodus against a violent corporation named Pharma-Con. He is easily my new favorite superhero.

It has a good balance of off-the wall campiness while still relaying Ziggy's implicit message of hope and positivity. I totally suggest this read to anyone looking for something unique and atypical from the muscle -induced uber macho comic that is usually birthed into the mainstream.

HOLY AWESOME, BATMAN!! [be sure to disable the playlist above ]

2011-03-28T20:44:00.004-05:00

They announced the finalist for the Hot Rods and Heels Model of the Year contest. I asked for a nod in my direction and i got a giant push. awesome. This was literally 4 mins after i finished my random vlog. totally caught me off guard with the news. IN-SANE. yet, awesome.

FROM THE HOT RODS AND HEELS WEBPAGE- http://hotrodsnheels.com/blog/

Contests
Vote for your 2011 favorites! One vote per category, per IP address. Voting begins March 28th and closes when we reach 1000 votes or on April 8th, whichever comes first.

Finalists Announced

Holy cow- getting to 1,000 votes took two weeks year 1, one week year 2, year 3 it took 1 day! We were not prepared for all of the love & support y’all were prepared to give our nominees! We will certainly make sure we change our voting structure to 5,000 for next year, but at least there’s not extra nervous squirming time- the results are in! We’ll be posting pretty pictures and videos soon on our contests page, but we wanted to make sure we got the news out quickly, so without further ado here’s the finalists based on Popular Vote. These gals will be moving on to the judges’ panel.

Sporadic Vlog #3. Monthlyish Updates! [be sure to disable playlist above]

2011-03-28T20:30:00.001-05:00

Contest Fun UPDATED!!!!!!!!!!!

2011-03-28T00:35:00.001-05:00

See above post.

So some local industry greats decided i was fancy enough 2B nominated for the
Hot Rods n Heels:Pin-Up model Of The Year. I'm quite humbled to be grouped in with this bunch of rad ladies.[how does a fangirl get so lucky?] If you'd like to send me to the top three finals, vote at the above link. No registering ur email address, & it's one vote per IP. i could use some hero power of a different kind!
thnx. MLnR! [i'm the one painted as the day of the dead skelly, btw]

vote here- http://hotrodsnheels.com/contests/

The Loud Idiots and The Taffeta Darling take on HorrorFest Denver 2011

2011-03-22T21:43:00.000-05:00

OFFICIAL!!!

I'm am ultra excited to be listed and welcomed as a guest and host of HorrorFest 2011 as part of StarFest. It's ri-dic the way things work out. I can only be thankful and take whatever comes my way with a smile, and I'm smiling big at this one.

Click here for the official announcement and information regarding my first ever cross country gig. [still looking for a co-navigator!]

THIS AIN'T STAR TREK XXX UPDATE!!!!!!- Audio Review Added Above

2011-03-03T17:32:00.002-06:00

Written and audio reviews to come soon!

Batman xxx

2011-02-19T00:47:00.006-06:00

The Taffeta Darling and Appaloosa Red sat through 2.5 hours of Batman Porn Parody fun, all for your listening pleasure. Audio file can be found here.

Batman XXX Reviewed-

So this "adult movie" was better than expected. Colorful campy sets. Bright and mostly detailed costumes. The ladies' hair and make up jobs = FANTASTIC! Mad props to the h/mu artist 2PLY! Your skills made this movie much prettier.

Story-
So pretty much Bruce Wayne's fiance is captured and held hostage by Riddler [who has teamed up with The Joker and Catwoman ]within the first 6 mins. within the first 7 mins, Riddler pulls it out and so beings the FIRST sex scene. Not bad not good, mediocre. The guy who plays the character, [will update once notes are found], is a bit over the top and is more Shatner than Ed Nigma.

The constant jumping and giggling was atrocious. The same actor who played Riddler, did however manage to choreograph some decent fight scenes through out. The POW and KA-BOOM graphics were spot on. The dynamic XXX duo played by Dale DaBoone and James Deed, were right on. Both looked like their respected counterparts and did pretty decent jobs in portraying two of my favorite DC characters, as much as can be played in a porn.

Pretty much the Bats n Dick encounter ladies along the way, who are trying to distract them by all means possible. There's even a not so small cameo by Ron Jeremy. Bats eventually gets captured after being accosted by a vixen with a great ass, named Holly. She drugs him takes him to The Joker [ who get's a double rub down, while he smile his crooked mustachio'd smile]

The boy wonder calls in back up from Barbra Gordon and her Batgirl. As they proceed to rescue their mentor, something in them says lets do it.. I think it's the holding of the rope and their bodies rubbing in such a close manner. So they do it, Batgirl takes it all off but her cape, mask and cowl.It's pretty hot, considering that's hard to do. after this heinous act these two engage in, they get aught by some of the Jokers henchmen.

All four , Robin, Batman, The Fiance, and Batgirl, unite tied and trapped by the Joker, Riddler, and The Catwoman. The boys decide that they want to kill 'em off, and Catwoman just can't have anyone except her get her man. So she knocks out the Riddler, Joker, and their henchmen and set the 4 free. As the girls run off, Catwoman gives them a purr and pretty much sticks her ass in the air and begs for it. So it's only obvious to quote the boy wonder

"HOLY THREESOME BATMAN?"

ehh, it's pretty cute. Couple complaints about the Catwoman, played by Tori Black. I was watching this and thought, i know those bored eyes, and that bad moan. Turns out this Catwoman, is the Wonder Woman from last weeks review. Once I saw that ugly ass tattoo on her stomach, it was confirmed. And i mean ugly in the sense, poorly drawn and executed. Just terrible. Make up or wardrobe should have called her out on that .

Anyways, so Bats and Robin take on the Catwoman, who completely ruins it by taking all her costume off. I mean shit girl, at least keep the ears and mask, or just ears on. The fantasy is gone as soon as that happens.

Story- 8/10
the special features allow you to watch the caper without the sex if you just want a bad but entertaining Batman story.

On the Flexibility scale around a 7/10
"Molly" is a babe, her butt was just awesome.She does the spitting thing a lot, but whatevs.

Costuming, Wardrobe -10/10
Again the make up and hair were perfect. I might steal a style or two for upcoming gigs.

One Liners 8/10
as heard by the Joker,- " I want you to smile when you take the load"
as heard by the Bats to the Cats " Do you want some more Batman"
as heard by the Cats to the Bats " I don't want the prison ward to see me in your Batcum".

Points deducted for the gross old hairy Joker legs [the dude had a 20 year old package but 60 year old legs- GROSS] Points also deducted for the Catwoman showing off that gnarly tattoo and taking off all her costume during the sex scene. Fantasy killer- out!

Over all 8.5

Iron Man: By Design

2011-02-18T23:16:00.001-06:00

The Review: this book was given to me as a gesture, since my broke ass hasn;'t been able to pick up anything new int he past weeks. I normally could care less about Iron Man but a friend suggested i check out the art as he knows I am an art-whore. I didn't have any real thought about reviewing it until i started flipping through pages. I thourougly enjoyed this collection of varient Iron Men, that i felt it was worth a quick shout out,since  it’s pretty easy to overlook.
The art included on these pages are ridiculously beautiful,for the most part. Some i could have done without.

50's automotive was near perfect, if you take out IronMan. He face seems uneven, and his head looks more like an alien than helmet. The ancient rome was probably my least favorite. Unimpressive and resembled a lousy attempt at the Creature from the Black lagoon. I'l probably get some backlash for hating the Joe Kubert one, but F-it. It fell flat, and looked and lacked details in the face and armor.[yes he's old and this was recent, but i would have rather seen a bigger image of the Viking Iron Man than this WW1 era design. A few other pieces I didn’t personally care for at least had an unique feel to them but the overall work as a gallery was pretty much nailed in this book.

In addition to the artwork the details given about the art style, the artist and their own conception of the artwork,added to my adoration of this issue. I enjoyed the brief description of the stylized images the artists were influenced by and leanring a lil bit about artists i had never heard of. I feel in love with Mike Del Mundo. My faves with the Art Deco streamlined,and Tesla inspired suits. The cover byGerald Parel totally nailed his Di Vince inspire peice. No surprise really. But it's cool because it's not something that we as fangals n boys get to read along side of the art very often.

So what if spending $3.99 on this book isn't for everyone. If you love art, and a lil insight into the artist mind it's worth  a grab. AGAIN I personally don't care or keep up with Iron Man, but The art is worth it. I'd like to rip a few pages out and frame them, or even scan them and make them posters.
4 outta 5.

WW xxx Promo

2011-02-07T23:59:00.001-06:00

Me and my gal Mars get ready to watch the Wonder Woman porno. Check out our live review on the Loud Idiots podcast 2/8/11 7PM CST on non-productive.com

Wow, it's a VLOG [#2]

2011-02-03T14:20:00.001-06:00

Vlog sounds like a noise my body would make at any given minute...
either way here's an update via face!

My Lil Taffeta Darling

2011-02-01T16:11:00.003-06:00

So an internet pal of mine, Sabastian [who has been a ridiculous supporter for a very long time] sent me the most amazing gift today. Thanks for the totally neat-oh pony!

LOS LUCHADORES MYSTERIOSOS #1

2011-02-01T14:34:00.005-06:00

Los Luchadores Mysteriosos #1 04/2010
Creator / Writer/ Artist by Evan Quiring
Colors- by Victoria Free
Published by Ronin Studios

 When Los Luchadores Mysteriosos creator Even Quiring asked me to check out his newest creation I was humbled. Apparently he follows my constant facebook postings of the love i have for sci-fi, Santo and monsters.I was totally intrigued by the cover alone.Mexicvan wrestlers running from  a vampire and zombie while a flying saucer hoovers over them. OMG!! SCORE! A new twist on all the elements I love the camp of these generes and they're together!

The retro stylized illustration and art work is perfect for these wild tales muchachos who just want their chance to get in the ring. Good muscle movement detail in the fighting scenes. The women, Ms. Riviera Particularly, has the usual characteristics as they in  comics,[ big boobs,big hair, tiny waists] and gets down in her underwear for no real reason. My kinda party. The coloring by Victoria Free is spot on, really remind me of the old Weird Science books i adored as a kiddo. These two work well together and it shows on every fangtastic page. No double checking the previous pages to see what went where.

I've grown weary of the Zombie Chic culture that keeps rearing it's dead head everywhere i turn, but the campy Latino zombies were awesome.  I adore it, they grew on me quickly, especially because of the campy retro artwork. I liked this comic and If i can convince some of my local stores to pick it up I'll def keep reading.
 4 out of 5

FLASH #8 REVERSE FLASH REBIRTH W/ PROF CHALLENGER-

2011-02-01T14:29:00.003-06:00

As featured on Aint It Cool News

FLASH #8
Writer: Geoff Johns
Artist: Scott Kolins
Publisher: DC Comics
Reviewer: The Taffeta Darling & Prof. Challenger

“This is my story. My name is Eobard Thawne. I'm the fastest man alive. And from this day forward, I'm The Flash of the 25th Century!”
-- Prof. Zoom, The Reverse-Flash

Taffeta: The Reverse Flash's origin is again explained while the OCD'd Professor Zoom fuels his growing hatred for the Flash,and people in general. Zoom's been a pretty big threat in The Flash's world and another retelling of his origin seems unnecessary to me. Nothing unknown or new is revealed. Yet it's not without it's charm.

Prof: I agree that the issue has much charm about it. Particularly the link it makes between itself and the recent FLASH: REBIRTH mini-series. This one is even billed on the cover as THE REVERSE FLASH: REBIRTH. I disagree, however, that it was an unnecessary retelling of his origin. For me, this retelling was much like the FLASH: REBIRTH origin changes. There were strategic changes made to Barry's history and now to Eobard himself by the seriously crazy Prof. Zoom. He has now monkeyed around with both his and Barry's timelines and as a prelude to the upcoming “Flashpoint” event, I have a feeling this was very necessary.

Taffeta: Looking at the story itself, there's a wonderfully crude element in the quality of the storytelling in this issue. Geoff Johns brilliantly writes this dark story with a near perfect theme about the dangers of rashness, as we see Thawne's mentality progressively warp in this future's unyeilding agenda.

Prof: Absolutely. It shows the corruption of absolute power. If you can really pop back and forth through history and actually change things...it positions Zoom to feel like he's essentially...God.

Taffeta: As you read along you feel Zoom's aggression and hate worsen with every spiteful change he makes to his own timeline.

Prof: Yes! It reminded me a little of David Gerrold's THE MAN WHO FOLDED HIMSELF in that sense. Every change he makes to his own past leads to another change to fix a new problem. It gets out of control very quickly.

The only real complaint I have is with the art. I am simply not a fan of Scott Kolins and I don't mean the new change he has made to his work. In fact, I think the “changes” he has made actually make his work slightly more palatable to me than it used to. I don't mean this as an outright criticism of Kolins and his art in general. I know too many people who really love his work, and he keeps getting prime jobs like this and the JSA, so I realize it's merely my problem and not his.

Taffeta: Well, I'm really not into that new digital coloring approach for Kolins' line work. it's awkward and dismal. It could've benefited from a cleaner ink job. Yeah, the artwork pretty much left me unfulfilled too.

Prof: I don't even think he has an inker on this. It looked to me like it was reproduced from his pencils and colored. That can work for some artists, but I don't think it works for him. I wish we would've had this coloring process 30 years ago for artists like Gene Colan, though. I think that would've rocked.

Overall, I thought this was a really good stand-alone issue. It was interesting and thought-provoking. It doesn't require me to have already been buying this FLASH series to understand it, and even though it is a prologue to “Flashpoint,” I don't have to read that event to enjoy this issue. I recommend it for fans of The Flash who aren't buying this series for whatever reason.

Taffeta: Well, I've thought that Prof. Zoom was pointless and a tame foe in the DCU. Yet Johns totally finds a way to tie all the thread's of Zoom's life together in a way that brings new life and re-purposes an old character without contradicting anything that's come before. And it's a good stand-alone villain depiction building up to this epic conclusion, but then it cuts out and I'm all WTH?

Prof: Even though it just “cut out” at the end, I was primed by that point to not care. To me, it was a complete story with a cliffhanger-style end in that I am interested in seeing what happens next with Prof. Zoom...and ultimately I think that's the sign of a good (not great, but solidly good) comic.
--------------------------------------------
Prof. Challenger is Texas cartoonist and writer, Keith Howell. He has trained his body to be a registered deadly weapon and mastered various martial artists under the tutelage of Sensei Joe Jitsu. His romantic skills were honed through years of understudy work with the great modern Don Juan best known as Go-Go Gomez. Challenger's status as World's Most Mediocre Detective was achieved through formative years spent absorbing the key aspects of detective-ing taught to him by the incomparable Hemlock Holmes. Check out his website at http://profchallenger.com for more info, art galleries, and links to his Twitter feed and blog, Intelligent Designs.

The Taffeta Darling is a geek, a stunning model, and a cos-player's dream girl. Her knowledge of the geek culture is un-matched and her sparkling smile melts hearts across Texas and abroad. Plus, she loves fart jokes...especially the ones she makes herself. Check her out at http://www.thetaffetadarling.com/ and throw some well-deserved love her directions.

BELA LUGOSI’S TALES FROM THE GRAVE #1

2011-02-01T14:20:00.004-06:00

I bought this comic at Wizard world austin . i met Gammill, and some other artist, too bad i cant read his signature or i'd
mention ya. they asked if i'd be interest in doing a lil Nosferina cosplay. hells yeah
I was afraid there was a chance the stories would be sub par, or that the comic would dumb down  the memory of Lugosi, but the fears we're laid to rest instantly. I got into it rather easily. From start to finish it can all be summed up into one word FANG-TASTIC! [what am i the crypt keeper?]

favorite script of the book- "
still there is no place so strange- so isolated-- as the dark and unknown corners of the soul. That is where we fear to tread."

The first issue contains stories and art  by such notables as Kerry Gammill, (SPIDER-MAN and SUPERMAN)  James Farr (whose XOMBIE online animated and comic book series is being brought  to theater screens by Dreamworks in a live-action production by top writer/producers Orchi and Kurtzman),  Chris Moreno (WORLD WAR HULK), John Cassaday,  Rob Brown (named last year’s horror artist of the year in an online vote), Derek McCaw,  Rafael Navarro (creator of the Xeric Award winning series SONAMBULO), Martin Powell  and Eisner Award- winning artist Terry Beatty (THE BATMAN STRIKES), Brian Denham (IRON MAN, ANGEL)  and Bruce Timm (designer for Warner Bros animated BATMAN series) and more.

BELA LUGOSI’S TALES FROM THE GRAVE has a classic EC tradition that offers strange and unusual tales. In a special arrangement with Bela G. Lugosi, Bela’s son, the DRACULA actor  will act as host and commentator for each terror tale. The standard cover for  issue #1 features a Lugosi portrait by legendary monster painter Basil Gogos.

Artwork: 4.5 out of 5 Well I have to admit I has a little bias here, I'm into anything with classic monster art pair it with Rob Brown’s work.  no surprise that i feel in love with every drooling creature and beheaded ghoul. Great artwork throughout this issue is starts on the very first page that says "welcome".. all these bad ass black n white monsters and creatures, steal inviting you into their madness. GEEEEEZ. only thing that was off about the book, and not off, just outta place i thought, was Joe Freire’s story ,uses photo’s. but there's still an artistic ability put forth i appreciate.
the art mos def compliments Bela rather than over power. 

Story: 4.5 out of 5 Just like the artwork mostly everything presented here has an old school classic twist  added to it. old school horror fans should feel as melancholy as ever with this book in between their ghoulish hands. 
Newcomer’s to an older style of horror can also appreciate it. Every story was full of substance and or course spinkled with the perfect amount of horrible monster-y goodness. As I've said before with  continuity with in the anthologie, keeping work consistent from story to story with different creative teams is not  always easy, and rarely impresses me. So when i say this team worked hard to  produce the best, I was not let down.

2010-09-29T00:50:00.003-05:00

My lil segment on the Loud Idiots podcast from September 14 ,2010.

This episode I discuss , wasting meat , burning comics, give myself a shout out as Gamette of the Month for busygamer.com
and give a follow up on Time Masters- Vanishing Point #2 and take the lead on the Booster Gold Fan Club.

Click here to check it out. My segement starts at the 30.30 minute marker.

Batman- The Odyssey

2010-07-25T15:13:00.003-05:00

Neal Adams is back on Batman. Even though his run on Batman was before my time, his art won me over years ago.

I doubt anyone argues that Neal Adams is a legendary artist. His work is fabulous and within moment of turning the cover, it felt like i was going back in time with a retro Batman story. I'm a sucker for big eyed crosshatched expressions and Adams had me swooning over the Bats by page 2.

Tim's Robin suit brought on a nice art flashback. Adams' art has this jagged, notable style to it, meaning i could almost feel the action taking place as I ran my fingers over the drawings.

Most notable, and something that most everyone reviewing this issue will touch on, is Bruce's ego boosting guns.
The issue beings with Bruce telling Dick about one of his first adventures, and how the holding of his .45's blossomed his confidence. I totally LOLed when i read *blossom* in his word bubble.

So he's not really out to shoot the bad guys, just terrify them, and give 'em a little test of the ol' Batarang #37.
This story focuses on the Batman coming at ya hard style. No camp, no B.S. just straight up serious Batman. Aside the "Boy Blunder" joke, the dialogue between Bruce and Dick isn't cheesed out.

So the two get ready to help with Commission Gordon's current concern, "The lil Mint Caper vs the Dock Shock"
[what i named the two crimes being pulled off at two dif location by the same crew]
While the dynamic duo are getting ready, I got a stronger feel for the way the Batmind works, over analytical and not willing to settle. I love that mind.

There's a good amount of other DC character nods to The Riddle, Ra's Al Ghul and Dr Kirk Langstrom in the Manbat form.
Apparently Manbat is trying to warn Batman of whatever plan this other creepier Manbat has in store. To me it seemed that Kirk was hesitantly working for that creepster too. The stage is being set for some high-action in this 6 issue arc.

There wasn't much I didn't like about this issue. At times the story becomes a little muddles and almost out of synch, maybe that's the point. The art was amazing, really took me back to those old issues I was first exposed to. If you've never read a comic with Adams' art, you need to pick this one up. It's classic Batman for a modern age.

Loud Idiots Call in for June 29th

2010-07-07T23:01:00.007-05:00

Click here to hear my silly and unprepared segment with the Loud Idiots on June 29th.

V-Log 1

2010-06-25T20:10:00.003-05:00

I was really bored at 2 am and decided to finally do a video blog, update with the photobooth on the OSX.

It's not just a vLog kids, games are sprinkled throughout. classics such as:

Count the "uhs"
Pin point the slip ups
Which words did i slur or stutter the most
How many times can you stop the video and get a stupid face, ........and much much more!

Dr Sketchy's OKC

2010-06-07T22:00:00.002-05:00

Get ready Oklahoma City, I'm coming your way!
I've been invited to Dr Sketchy's in OKC for July 11th's special cosplay session with me and 4 costumes. I havent decided which costumes to bring yet. So if you're with in a few hours drive, come out draw,mingle, win prizes and have an amazing time in the OKC.

Double Gingers.

2010-05-18T18:49:00.005-05:00

Jessica Rabbit and Marvel's Black Queen [Jean version]
Again, a lil more magic with Charlie of Paper Moon Photography.
Her work is incredible. I feel that every time her and I work together we create something better than before. Love it!
I'll have the Black Queen out for DALLAS COMIC CON in August. Look for Jessica Rabbit to make an appearance at A-FEST in Sept.

MAD love!

My interview on The Loud Idiots podcast-

2010-05-18T18:36:00.004-05:00

So incase you missed it or would like to hear it again, here is the link of my interview with The Loud Idiots.

Obviously I was incredibly nervous. My first live interview and my first live podcast. I think I did alright. Thanks to everyone who tuned in and for the ridiculously ridiculously ridiculously amount of amazing support and feedback. The Loud Idiots have offered me a chance to come on more frequently and talk shop about whatever. I think it could be amazingly fun.

Check out my first interview with the loud idiots by clicking here.

Plethora of Nonsense

2010-03-29T20:09:00.006-05:00

So I am still anxiously waiting on my website to be developed. All the while two cons have come through Texas and I've met yet another of my favorite artists. Also this month was my first performance on stage since high school.

ALL-CON first.. Oh Emm Gee! ALL-CON was amazing. I had such a killer time meeting new folks and seeing some amazing costumes. The game room was bumpin' I was pretty much done with rockband by the time that session was over.
I bought a few new comics, most excitingly an issue of the 2001:Space Odyssey series. Also picked up the Wonder Woman Blackest Night I was missing. I dressed up all three days. I felt i did pretty good justice to these characters, and was lucky enough to get a lot of positive feedback from stellar costumers and designers. I have most posted on facebook page. But here's a few anyways. Day one- Lonely droog looking for some trouble- Day two I went as one of my beauty queen heros, from BeetleJuice the receptionist Miss Argentina. Lastly on All-CON day three I attempted Velma DInkly which received numerous compliments.

Also this month as stated I was part of EXTINCTION 2010 which is a huge fashion show with some proceeds donated to charity.
I was humbled to learn they had booked me, without me knowing. I'm still surprised by the people who even knew my face. I was originally part of the eye candy that was supposed to sit and oversee the sacrifice for the night.
Then it turned into me being part of the sacrificial dance with Courtney Crave, who I adore. She came up with an erotic yet tasteful dance. The idea behind EXTINCTION if you hadn't guess was end of days, post apocalyptic living. Which then incorporated lots of Steampunk fashion, Aztec Dancers and Mayan flare.. Throw a bit of Burlesque, self piercing and of course mine and Courtney's dance, and you've got a heck of a night.
*VIDEO TO BE POSTED SOON* Below is an image from the night -

Rounding out this month for me was Houston's COMICPALOOZA! This was the morning after my EXTINCTION performance and I was quite tired. However, waiting for me in Houston were two artist guest passes for three days courtesy of DC artist
Ethan Van Sciver. I was so giddy to have him sign my Flash Rebirth and some Green Lantern covers for me. I literally drove 8 hours to get some art and signatures from him.
It mattered not, the little amount of sleep I received, or the fact the I only was able to visit the con for 3 hours, and most of the celebs had gone home. It was just so worth it to meet an artist I adore and consider to be one of my favorites.
He drew a tiny Catwoman in my tiny sketch pad, and then a freaking SWEET! Wonder Woman head shot. In like 10 mins. He is a genius. And just as open in person as he is in his blogs/ videos. Aside Ethan, there wasn't much eye candy at the con. Costumes were scarce and the crowd had diminished quite a bit. However the vendors were fantastic. So much there that I wanted to bring home. I picked up a Defenders Vol2 and a Werewolf By Night Vol2, along with a Get Smart novel and the Clash of the Titans "movie book". Both books really neat.
After all the rushing and driving It was like a mini vacation. And as most know, any chance I have to escape the Big D and get in on another road trip, is always an adventure I am always up for.
Houston has totally changed. It offered so much beauty than I had remembered. Downtown has really been rearranged and has so much to seet. It still has that same Houston *FUNK* but you only have to hold your breathe instead of covering your eyes.

More Comics, Less Curves.

2010-02-28T20:15:00.005-06:00

So I've totally slacked on my blogging lately. I swear it's been on my to-do list for-ev-ah!
But in all fairness I am in the progress of building TheTaffetaDarling.com . And I've been trying not to post much, seeing as everything will have to get transfered to the new site. However a few updates-

Today ends the six week long contest and voting for Fan Babe of the Year @ Fanbabes.com
So far so good, I am in the lead with over 200 votes. I won't be truly excited until a winner is named.
However I want to say thank you to everyone who took the time to add Fanbabes.com and wait for the request and then go vote.

It is incredibly kind and it means that there is at least 200 people that are willing to humor me & suffer through all
my mis-adventures. I feel 2010 is going to be amazing. I tried something new last year incorporating a little character costuming into my pinup, and fashion work. I had a decent response so it gave me the push I needed to step up for this years and be better. I have three new characters I worked on with Neither Noir and hope to post images soon from the Black Queen [Phoenix], Velma Dinkly, and a very glamourous Poison Ivy.
I've been VERY lucky to work with the creative trio that is Neither Noir. If you're on my facebook page chances are i've sent you a friend suggestion. These guys are about to explode. They offer a unique photography session that can change your ordinary image into an art piece of dream imagery. It is a perfect opportunity to capture your art in a personalized, stylized image. March 12-14th I'll be sharing a booth with the trio. I'll have some prints for sale and other silly things for free. NN will have a photobooth set up so you can capture your own ALL-CON 2010 image on an 8x10. I have something else in the works with these guys after ALL-CON, so more radassness to come. [yes, rad-ass-ness]

Also on the list is the STAPLE! Independent Media Expo in Austin Texas, March 6th.
Check out Volume Two of Gun Gals:Blade Babes by Vinh-Luan Luu . You can purchase a copy online at http://www.indyplanet.com/store/product_info.php?products_id=3335. Or come out next saturday to Austin for the
STAPLE! Independent Media Expo. Books and prints are for sale.
[and a few have me without tattoos and bitching hair colors.]

Also in March, the 27th will be my first fashion show. I have been recruited as part of Extinction 2010. It will feature Aztec and Mayan themes. I'll get to be in a fun skit with some beautiful ladies who will be sacrificial priestess lifting me up to the gods.
I am STOKED to be sacrificed by the other girls performing. Amber DeVille ,Vivienne Vermouth, Angela Ryan, and Zamra will all be taking part in this theatrical fashion show. House of Mob will be providing the wardrobe. It's going to be an overload of the senses

The following night March 7th is Comicpalooza. The biggest in my state! I'll bring out the Black Queen costume for a day trip to get Ethan Van Scivers autograph on a few of my Flash Rebirth issues. I just love the art through out the issues. Also at the con is Bruce Campbell. I'd like to meet him and ask him to sign my old school VHS of Evil Dead. Hopefully get a photo too. March is a super busy month for me. If I can i'd like to squeeze SXSW in. So far it doesn't seem plausible I'll attend my most favorite special music festival. Man OR Astro-man? is back on tour,almost 9 years since i saw them. They're in my top 5 of all time greatest bands. Space surf aliens FTW.
Along with my Zatanna , I will be doing the aforementioned costumes at Dr. Sketchy's in Oklahoma City on July 11th. It'll be a three hour sketch- for-all featuring me posing for three hours. I'm super excited about this. It is my first offer to come to an out of state event to just feature me. Now if only I can get some of these in the NW and NE I'll be on my way!

I hope to have TheTaffetaDarling.com up and going by the end of March. Video blogs, and updates will commence soon!!

Blade Babes and Gun Gals.

2010-02-08T00:05:00.003-06:00

So i was asked to be a part of Blade Babes / Gun Gals. A pinup girl style comic book by Vinh-Luan Luu. You can find his work at
http://kaminoshi.deviantart.com/ and read more about his work here http://www.space-gun.com.

He'll be taking this to the indy expo STAPLE in Austin Texas March 6th. i think he'll have a few prints for sale!

Dallas Comic Con 2010 /

2010-02-07T23:37:00.011-06:00

This year's DCC was fantastic. I finally met a few people who I only knew through their art, and then eventually facebook.
The crowd this year was intense. Both saturday and sunday proved to be a huge success. Saturday's turn out definitely brought the bigger crowd. I arrived with Mr. Cool and met up with the Neither Noir trio around noonish. I was maybe 20 feet in before i met up with another Zatanna and a heck of a Harley Quinn. Guys being guys saw this as a perfect opportunity to take advantage of a dual Zatanna photo op. This started a trend that lasted for about 40 mins.
The artists gallery was pretty full and had some amazing artists. Almost every booth i stopped by had a line of folks waiting for some custom work. Business seemed good! I spent a few hours there walking the booths and trying to decide what I wanted and from who.
The longest line of course were by Tim Sale, whom I never saw. And of course Adam Hughes, who was also very busy.
Although I had the celebrity two day pass, I didn't see any of them until sunday.
Sunday's trip proved to be better for me because I was able to walk the less crowded alley and toy booth arenas. I had planned on doing the Black Queen based on the Adam Hughes bust. However i had a horrible transaction with Pink Label Corsets who has YET to send me two corsets needed for the Jan convention. [A whole 'nother blog, dudes. :(]

Anyway, sunday I wore the Zatanna costume again and still turned out some pretty rocking photos. I came back with some money and went straight for the Jon Hughes booth and purchased the Prince Namor print I had been eyeing for the past 24 hours.
Additionally I had seen a Morrigan print at Terry Parr's both and that was the other print i had come back to the convention to purchase. Well worth it my friends, well worth it. To my surprise he had drawn a Zatanna in my likeness which made the weekend that much better. On top of all the greatness I finally made it back to Adam Hughes less crowded booth. At this point I had been with my girl Vinny Velour creeping the con checking out all the fabulous talent. We went to Adam and asked if it was cool if took a few photos. He totally obliged and commented on our nice smell, annnd that he loved my Zatanna. THAT ladies and gentlemen made it all worth while and the best day ever for me. I stammered a little and turned bright red, so I'm told. I remember saying something along the lines of "Thank you for drawing such hot women". Todd Nauck, was incredibly nice as well. He lives in the same city as my younger sister. Who knew Texas had such amazing artists within my driving boundaries. Tom Fiester had his first visit to Dallas, and I think he had an alright time. I hpe he comes back soon. We have a ton of burlesque ladies who would love to check out his stuff. I had an incredible time in costume. This was the first year to dress up. Usually i just go shop, get a few prints and leave.I was overwhelmed at first and almost had a panic attack. This is when it's nice to have a group of people to pull you away and keep the show going. I tend to freeze in the headlights.
Below are several pictures from the convention. Most have been seen but they're still rad.

hellkitten originals

2010-01-30T22:10:00.005-06:00

So a few weeks ago I was approached by my friend Stacy- Hell Kitten- to model for her clothing line she is designing. Her work is incredible. She needed some nice quality images to take to various merchants. So I feel pretty lucky that I got the call to come in and show off her items. She made most of the jewelry I am wearing and sewed the skirts. Photography by IXIIIM , and H/MU and tiny hat by Paige of IamPaige.com.

Valentines Day photo fun

2010-01-24T23:03:00.006-06:00

So my lovely friends at Dynamite Dames and Saints & Sinners photography teamed up to bring two very unique and cute sets to the DFW area. I was lucky enough to model more of Laura,... darling's Heart Cocktail hats and this time pasties!. I'd never worn pasties before and had some trouble at first but was able to figure out how to handle the girls.
Hair was done by Vintage Flair and the MUA was Dynamite Nicky. Both sets were absolutely fun.. I usually do the cute stuff an thought it might be neat to go a little bad and show off some , uhhh merchandise. Dynamite Dames offered a Valentines in a box set, while Saints and Sinners offered " The Best Little Whore House in Texas". I'm really happy with the way these turned out. Some of you may or may not know i used to be 40 pounds heavier last march. I was proud to show off. :P

Raven came a-rapping- rap-rap- rapping

2010-01-19T11:57:00.008-06:00

Happy birthday to my most favorite tormented soul.

I first started reading Edgar Allen Poe in 7th grade drama class. We did weekly prose meaning each student memorized a poem, or monologue , or sometimes duet and would recite it for the class. My drama teacher Mr. Jack Baker, became one of the most influential people of my school "career". Mr. Baker pushed me every week on into 11th grade to take on the tormented souls of Plath, Poe, Blake, and Tennyson.

But of all the poets, Edgar Allen Poe quickly became my favorite. I wont go too off into the rambling about my book collection and how
Fall of the House of Usher is one of my most favorite reads. Or how I wanted to change my name to Annabelle Lee. [ maybe the next female pet i get] ORRRR
How my creepy side wanted it's own pendulum dark room to hold my own wild charades of the macabre.
But I will say his work is epic, essential, fabulous, and has influenced me, and most of the people i look up to in one way or another...
He even made it into the cartoons of my childhood.

Fun with toys!

2010-01-11T23:47:00.020-06:00

So this past weekend I had the fun opportunity to take some promotional pictures for comicimpact.com [which will come soon]
I teamed up with Bryan Kluger of Boomstick Comics. We shot inside with sky lights and natural light coming in from the windows. I am wearing officially licensed mens Batman underwear. The Prince Namor charm was made custom by AddyPatty.etsy.com. And the black and white skully bow is another gem from RazinHellJezebel.etsy.com
Side note.... YES! I am reading a Namor comic.. YES! I adore the heck out of him.. YES! I get shit for loving Namor.. I say Psshh. If you'd like to discuss the reasons he rules or not, feel free though!

Paper Moon photography

2010-01-06T23:10:00.008-06:00

So I had the privilege [again] to work with Charlie of Paper Moon photography. She is a one woman show doing hair, MU, along with editing and sets. The vinyl skirt ,corset and hat is on loan courtesy of LaDonna of Drop Dead Gorgeous. I have more t-shirts and jeans then i know what to do with so when the opportunity sets me up for some bitchin' threads, I'm down.
I loved how these turned out. She has a neat light set up. One is like this honey comb texture she called a beauty light, I wish I knew more about them. .
We did the old Hollywood style which is so glamorous to do.
A few classic implies, and then my favorite, her rendition of a Paper Moon magazine with me in my most fave 7.50 Wolverine Target shirt.
The white rose with leopard print leaves is by Razin' Hell Jezebel. Who was super kind to send me some goods to showcase. - Etsy account -- RazinHellJezebel.etsy.com

Happy New Year

2010-01-01T14:50:00.005-06:00

So i had this incredible vision of silver sparkle and white backdrops reminiscent of 1940's countdown.
Naturally I went to my good friend and fabulous photographer Sarah of Dynamite Dames.
Myspace.com/dynamitedamesphotography

I sent her my ideas and she was onboard. I made the banner with wired silver ribbon which made the perfect curl at the ends. I was thrilled with these images as it was my first time to show off my belly and depend on a a sheer fabric to cover the gals.
I have so much going already in the first few months. I started on 2 of the three costumes I'm working on.
ALL-CON is in March 13,14th and I plan on sharing a booth with the Neither Noir guys. We'll be promoting their work and I'll be selling prints.
Also in March the weekend of the 6 & 7th , I'll be in Austin for STAPLE. The indy pinup comic book that i am in titled
Gun Girls and Babe Blades will be for sale.

Vinh- Laun Luu of Indy group Space-Gun Studios is finalizing it right now. Check out there site here

http://www.space-gun.com

More Merry Melodies than Silly Symphonies

2009-12-27T10:25:00.006-06:00

It's no secret that I am obsessed with cartoons, especially the older ones. I can't help but be a sucker for a funny drawing set to unforgettable music. Growing up I adored Merry Melodies. Some of my most favorite cartoons don't even feature a herald, like Bugs or Daffy. Most are just the one shots and more notably by Tex Avery.
One that stuck with me for the ages, was 1936's I Love to Singa featuring Owl Jolson.Like most of Avery's direction this cartoon was a parody from Al Jolson's "The Jazz Singer". I youtubed the latter and I most definitely prefer the cartoon to the origin movie.
There's just something about little Owl Jolson that i relate to. He has this twinkle in his eye that says " watch out world, I'm living my life dang it". The posture and strut that is purveyed through the image make my heart leap.. IT LEAPS!
So finally after months of anticipation I finally have my Owl Jolson tattoo. It was done by the elusive Oliver Peck[er] at Elm Street Tattoo. Total time including drawing the image up and then inking it, less than 45 minutes. He is hardhanded and it hurt like a bitch, but it was quick and the best you can freaking buy.
I'm pretty happy with it and have been annoying the hubs by making my arm dance around while singing"I Love to Singa"

MERRY CHRISTMAS!!!

2009-12-25T05:02:00.004-06:00

Merry Christmas!
Havent slept yet, still finishing up the last of my christmas crafts. Two birdhouses, a photo tray and a bill holder made of old cigar ads. Kinda neat. All parents get home made gifts this year. Although i don't celebrate Christmas as the birth of Jesus, I do celebrate it as a time of family. I'm so different from my family and have the least bit of common interests with them.
My christmas is special to me because it's a time to be together no matter what religion, or political affiliation we may have. We can get together reminisce on all the stupid things i did growing up and now laugh at most of them... most.

Christmas eve I spent with my inlaws about 2 hours south. I had an amazing day. We had a BLIZZARD warning through out north Texas. Snow, rain, ice.. all fabulous. Although I get totally anxious during bad weather driving. However,
I totally had a white christmas, and of course no camera. I made out like a bandit and can not wait to throw down some of my money on my Owl Jolson tattoo.. Yeah, that's right. Today I will visit my mom and step fathers, then my dad and step mothers to be rounded out by my in-laws in the evening.

Mad love to you, and have a safe holiday.

Zombunnee 2010 Calendar Cover

2009-12-15T19:50:00.007-06:00

WHAAAAAAAAAAA? You've never heard of Zombunnee ? Oh and where can you find out more information on the cutest zombie bunnee ever?
Check out www.zombiefriends.com/zombunnee for the information regarding 2010's calendar release and convention schedule where eventually you too can purchase a Zombunnee of your own.
The inside of calendar is crawling with Zombunne's favorite brain drainers, and they're nude!
January- December offers plenty of gore and girls all in Zombunne's honor. I was absolutely thrilled to be apart of this project. Who am i to turn down a Day of the Dead theme and to play a virgin!? This was my first Day of the Dead shoot where i wasn't in skull makeup. It was super fun! I painted the day of the dead skulls and the Mary statue in front of Zombunee.
Thanks to Chrissy for doing the scene with me. She did her own MU folks, pretty kick ass!

Special thanks to Crystal Lyn, who suggested me for the project. Check out my hottie friend on Twitter- http://twitter.com/CrystalLyn30
Extra special thanks to Remy St. Paul for using my images even though i didn't strip down to my short and curlys
facebook @ http://www.facebook.com/remystpaul

Feature on ComicImpact.com

2009-12-06T11:04:00.011-06:00

http://comicimpact.com/2009/12/cosplay-girl-of-the-month-december-2009

Earlier this week I was informed by Comicimpact.com that i was their cosplay girl of the month. Follow the link and check out a brief interview and my fun mix of pinup and character play.. The posted Harley images are a few photos Comic Impact didn't use but are still some of my favorite shots to date.
Mad mad mad love and appreciation to Photographer Nate Rehlander and post production master Brian Rehlander for an awesome time and wonderful shoot.
Check out more of their work here ---

http://www.modelmayhem.com/natelander

http://www.modelmayhem.com/brianrehlander

I think these edits of my Harley Quinn are the bees knees. Also

Mad respect to the guys over @ Comicimpact.com

Thanks for the shout out and support!!

Modern Warfare 2- Goes to Eleven.

2009-11-24T13:33:00.006-06:00

So last night I received the most spectacular surprise. Chris brought home Modern Warfare 2. I wasn't expecting it until December, so the early arrival received a heel kick and a jig around the room. Triton joined in but I'm pretty sure he thought it was he who was about to play. Sorry Wonder Pup, videy-gaming. *Side Note[ We don't say video games anymore thanks to Hank Hill who refers to it as a "Videy-Game"] ** Some Spoilers below**

While visually arousing the single player campaign is short but doesn't hold back from the intensity I loved in CoD4.
Some of these levels are not for the easily offended, and very well change the way a video game has the ability to evoke emotion from the player.
The TERMINAL map proved to be a bit much. The thought of being an under cover terrorist shooting innocent people evokes a unsettling sensation.
The variety of new guns and maps are outstanding. Some of the lay outs seem familiar though. I've found spots that could be the other side of the Creek or Pipeline as seen previously in Call of Duty 4: Modern Warfare.

Its good multiplayer action and not surprisingly shines as the premiere attraction to the game. Not a whole lot of reinvention, just some added changes, while still feeling comfortable with the set up. I've been overwhelmed this time with the multi-player campaign.
Though it brings the war style to the extreme, the maps are too large so its more a hide and seek game.
In my opinion they went a bit overboard with the perks. I don't need three different tactical air raids, just give me the best one possible. Too much to choose from and I have to keep deleting classes and making new ones because the options are limitless. [Not a bad thing, Overwhelming]
I must admit again and again that I am so addicted to multiplayer versions more than anything.
I've had little patience and jumped right in to team death match before trying the single player camp. I'm already at a level 22 after eight hours of play. I'm already kicking ass and taking names. Watch out guys, as soon as I get my saw, three grenades and martyrdom, I will own you. I'm learning my way and finding all the crannies to eventually move me back to the top spot. New with MW2 is special OPS meaning i can play a totally different campaign map/ game with someone across the street or world via xBOX live. Although I would have still liked to see a co-op mode in the regular campaign.
Aside a few ghoulish scenes, MW2 has me doing the Curly Shuffle while waiving my arms around like a helicopter. This game "goes to eleven".

X-Men Corset

2009-11-14T19:32:00.003-06:00

I've added to new photos to my portfolio in the pinup world. I was lucky to collaborate with Dynamite Dames photography to showcase the custom ordered X-Men corset made for me by -The Vintage doctor. -http://thevintagedoctor.com .
The girls over there are fabulous and were upfront with copyrighted images and would only use legal imagery. Pretty much I had to find some fabric. What I found were old sheets that had the characters of Beast, Psylocke and Gambit. She was able to use it and turn the old sheets into something fantabulous. I'm pretty sure the Gambit it Scott Williams. I never confirmed when i found it, i don't recall it saying either. Today was another incredible car show in Denton with the Pistons and Paint car show. Lots of beautiful beastly cars. The 42 Pontiac stole my heart and whispered that it was waiting for a girl like me to jump in and take it for a ride. I was lucky enough to get a few photo's in front of it so hopefully those will turn out alright.
Other news- I'm on my way to completing my Jean/ Black Queen Costume . Should be ready to show it off at All-Con.

Faux Tauntaun Sleeping bag.

2009-11-05T23:25:00.004-06:00

So i came across this on my endless surf on the nets. I really want this sleeping bag. Maybe by the time i can wrestle a good date down for my rockband/video game shoot I'll have enough money for this.

Totally hot.

http://www.thinkgeek.com/geektoys/plush/bb2e/

In the sub-zero wasteland of the planet Hoth, only the strong survive... and of course those lucky Jedi protected by the thick skin of a Tauntaun. Now after exhaustive movie viewing research and analysis ThinkGeek Labs has isolated the exact synthetic compounds needed to re-create Tauntaun fur. What have we done with this supreme knowledge? Created a Tauntaun sleeping bag of course.

This high-quality sleeping bag looks just like a Tauntaun, complete with saddle, printed internal intestines, and a plush lightsaber zipper pull. Now when your kids tell you their favorite Star Wars movie is "Attack of the Clones" you can nestle the wee-ones snug in simulated Tauntaun fur while regaling them with the amazing tale of "Empire Strikes Back".

Use the plush lightsaber zipper pull on the Tauntaun sleeping bag to illustrate how Han Solo saved Luke Skywalker from certain death in the freezing climate of Hoth by slitting open the belly of a dead Tauntaun and placing Luke inside the stinking (but warm) carcass. If your kids don't change their tune on which Star Wars film is the greatest ever, you can do your best Jar Jar impression until they repent.

updating!

2009-10-20T09:41:00.002-05:00

I am so behind. I've been broke all month. Work has been hard to come by and I have like issues since sept 23rd i haven't picked up. I havent finished the Archie marries Veronica, and now Betty. although i was right about him going up memory lane as some weird take on It's a Wonderful life.

I was offered a chance to pair with Nate Rehlander and work on some comic noir shoots cming up the first week of November. We going to be start with Shawdowcat, Harley Quinn and Zatanna. Yes i've done two of them before but this time will be much different and amazing. I am excited about Shadowcat. Took a queue from my buddy Lan an we'll be doing a little tub scene with her.

I just did a fun pinup shoot this weekend showcasing the talents of Vivienne Vermouth's costuming. - http://vforvermuth.blogspot.com -

I will post those photos soon. This blog eventually will turn in to a blog of my shoots and ideas and creative process behind them. Of course it'll have my latest games and reads as well. But my girl on a mission is to break the norm of modeling and prove thick geek girls can rule the world..

That's my mission anyways.

-mad love.

ARCHIE MARRIES VERONICA, the proposal.

2009-08-26T00:20:00.003-05:00

Lemme say, I totally called this as far as the scenario goes. I knew it would be some sort of alternate dream, reality, nightmare whatever. But Archie would experience two different situations and get a glimpse of what it would be like with each girl.

So they're graduating HS and everyone is putting pressure on Archie. The comment by Mrs A about her own Peter Pan finally growing up. Ahh it's classic Archie mode when he bolts out the door when the talk of responsibility hits the room. So he comes across memory lane and of course remembers all the times he's been down it. However he reminds himself he never has gone up memory lane. One path goes to the left and he starts walking down it and says 'I'll save the right path for another day"- RIGHT THERE I KNEW IT! If Scooby-Doo has taught me anything,is within the first 5 mins you get a spoiler before you know it.

Anyways Archie comes out of the path and he is much older and we see that his parents talk about him graduating college... WHOA!? What about HS?? So already I dig the time warp, flash forward.

While Archiekins is still feeling the heat of pressure of now graduating college he eventually decides to take Veronica

[ who is drawn wonderfully older and still sexy] to the jewerly store.

Of course that same time Betty and Jughead are walking downtown and she wants to go look at earrings, and walks right up to the moment where she sees the most horrible thing ever.

As things go in Riverdale everyone knows before Archie gets home and everyone is of course cheering but concerned about good ol' Betty. The last few pages are of Jughead breaking down the truth for Archie on how he broke a girls world tonight.

He even asks "who?" STILL has no clue and refers to Betty as his first friend, best friend in Riverdale some years ago.

Veronica calls Betty to tell her the news and she interrupts and says she congratulates Ronnie for winning.

* heart ache * OH MAN.

We end the issue with phone going to static while Veronica is asking Betty to be her maid of honor, as Betty drops the phone.

DAMN. I havent had this great of triangle story fixation since Chasing Amy... uber sweet.

Order up!

2009-08-20T00:53:00.012-05:00

I've had a lot going on.

I was able to take advantage of the cash for clunkers over my birthday weekend. I now have a fuel efficient, reliable way to work.

I also weighted myself saturday . Hooray to me on meeting and close to surpassing the weight loss goal I gave myself.

Mad respect to Sweating to the Oldies.

Also the THEM car club 'Invasion' hot rod show is coming up, [along with the debut of my face in the Dynamite Dames 2010 calendar]

I've been back to the crafting table. They'll be for sale through my etsy site and with a few new shrines at the Invasion show. A girl can really get behind on her reading.

I'm just getting to last weeks today.

Aside from the new Blackest Night- SM, Batgirl #1 and Archie 600 my day off will be spent catching up:

Beserker

Dead@17

Woodworm preview- Hooked! Jerking Jack Rabbits and the Anti Christ?

Dominic Fortune

Uncanny Xmen / Utopia

Fall of Giliead

Escape from Wonderland

Beyond Wonderland

Werewolves on the Moon vs Vampires

Marvels Project

Tales from the Crypt

Tales of the Corps

Dark X-Men

Capt America - Theatre of war

Ultimate Avengers

Ultimate Spiderman

just picked up Jesus Christ in the name of the Gun Vol 1- Almost done. I LOVE IT! Blasphemous Satire?

It's really the Fantastic Mr. Anderson

2009-07-30T15:42:00.021-05:00

I fell for the unique style of directing and writing from Wes Anderson in 1996. When I saw the Dallas filmed Bottlerocket,instantly I fell in love every character. I related to the boredom that Anthony felt. I wanted to have my own 50 year plan and run away with Dignam.

I'm still struggling with my "by the time I'm thirty plan".

With the upcoming Fantastic Mr Fox, Andersons directing will surely steal my heart again.

The story is based on the Roald Dahl book of the same name. Releases November 19th, just in time for the holiday kick off. The animation style here screams nostalgic in the way of Frosty, and Santa Claus is coming to town

As usual Anderson picks an amazing cast. George Clooney takes the title role,along Meryl Streep as Mrs Fox. Murray, Schwartman, Huston, Wilson, and William Defoe return to give audible pleasure in Wes Anderson's animated playground.

Some lucky bastards including Peter Sciretta from Slashfilm.com are already giving great reviews.

slashfilm.com

The plot itself doesn’t deviate from the book that much. At the moment they’ve changed the ending slightly from the book, but from the feedback we gave in the discussion at the end, it wasn’t particularly popular (although I personally thought it was quite good), so they may do something completely different with it. Other than that, there’s not too much I can say. The forms they got us all to scene was pretty strict with regards to what we could talk about, but if you’ve read the book, and watched a Wes Anderson film, you can easily put together what it’s probably going to be like. I can say that I laughed a lot though. It’s a funny film. Bill Murray is his usual brilliant self as Badger, and somebody who’s name I can’t say is brilliant as Farmer Boggis. Or is it Bunce? The one who makes the awesome cider."

Suh-weeet!

Smallville updates and panel from SD 09

2009-07-28T02:12:00.005-05:00

Callum Blue, who plays Zod, provided some very interesting information. The Zod we meet is an earlier version of the villain from Superman II. This is MAJOR Zod, who has come to earth, with some segment of an army, from Krypton's PAST. He doesn't know who Clark is, has no idea where he is or what is going on. And initially he doesn't have his powers.
The notion that Zod has come from Krypton's past raises a number of issues, which no one will confirm or deny, though based on facial reaction, one can assume that Jor-El will indeed be appearing on the show. It also raises issues of whether or not this can impact on the timeline. For instance, can Clark somehow save Krypton? If he does, however, that planet's survival would result in him NOT being sent to earth and ultimately become Superman.

Geoff Johns will be writing a Justice Society episode of the show.- as he states in part 2 or 3 when he makes an appearance.

It appears that teen angst is being left behind. I'm so ready for Clark to fully embrace the next step in his ultimate destiny.

A move to friday night along with ZOD, Metallo, Speedy [?], The Legion, JLA, and FLYING!! I might have to change my schedule to accommodate this series again. For reals.

Marvel Alliance Trailers.

2009-07-25T02:04:00.016-05:00

Oh. My.

Watch out folks ,this flower is -awilting!

Really, I just hit my head on the thermostat and had to sit down.

So-

Two new roster announcements today: Gambit and Jean.

My brain is starting to hurt from all the stimulation Marvel has been throwing my way.

Where they've disappointed me in the books, this will mark another notch on the good side of my belt.

The beginning game screen you're given the choice to register with the

government (side with Iron Man),

or refuse (side with Captain America);

both choices have an affect on the ultimate outcome in the

story line.Besides choosing the initial side, there will be key moments

during gameplay where you have choices to make as well;

the three options will always

be classified: aggressive, diplomatic, or passive.

Your decisions determine how the fighting skills evolve for your side..

By selecting aggressive choices, your party can upgrade strength,

diplomatic decisions provide more fusion opportunities, and passive choices improve defense.

I'm hoping for more RP than the DCU v MK : cool, but limited and boring.

So far i've only read about the non playable Silver Surfer. But instead we will see

Stan Lee make a traditional cameo in the game.

Hopefully he be an un-lockable character at the end.

"Excelsior"!

Video Games - E3 2009 - Video Game Trailers

Video Game - E3 2009 - Video Game Trailers

http://marvelultimatealliance.marvel.com

You would if you had robot ears. .

2009-07-23T14:12:00.007-05:00

8-Bit Thursday!

The Children of Bodom was a wicked surprise. The Axel Foley theme reminded me of being 9 and had to keep it. Damnit sounds better with out the vovals IMO. And at the end I always enjoy a joke.

Music Playlist at MixPod.com

Archie Comics can corrupt?

2009-07-15T11:36:00.006-05:00

Sonia Sotomayor's Family Worried Comics Would 'Corrupt Her'. It's interesting to see the generation gap. If she was reading AC then, and that was risk-ay, what might her parents think of the kids reading Tales from Wonderland[ WHICH RULES!]

***A wise Latina woman after my own heart***

A recent Washington Post article reveals that Supreme Court nominee Sonia Sotomayor was a serious comic book fan in her youth, and such an avid reader of comics like "Archie" and "Casper" that her family became concerned that they might "corrupt" her:

As Sotomayor was growing up in a family in which no one had gone to college, people prodded her to exceed
"The females were expected to achieve more," said her younger brother, Juan Sotomayor. She loved comic books -- Archie, Casper, Richie Rich -- so much that, after her father died, her paternal grandmother and aunts once convened a family meeting with her mother. "They were concerned about the role of the comic books in my sister's life," recalled her brother, an allergist outside Syracuse, N.Y. "It was maybe corrupting her."

The rest of the article is available here if you are a member of the post.
http://www.washingtonpost.com

I think it's awesome she read Archie comics growing up. If ya didn't know from previous blog, Archie Comics was my first love.
I wonder if Ms. Sotomayor knows Archie is about to marry Ronnie, and how she feels about it.

Ryan Reynolds becomes the Green Lantern

2009-07-14T10:10:00.002-05:00

I have been following the rumors that he was up for the part of Hal Jordan,[along with Jared Leto and Justin Timberlake.] Considering the options I am glad they went with Ryan.

comicbookmovie.com confirms he has been chosen as a protector!
Not 100 % sure he is a "Hal Jordan , Green Lanter" But here's hoping he can pull it off. I was really hoping he'd do Wally West/ Flash. I've been reading about that and thought it was perfect. So I'll take what I know of him, open my mind and take off the blinders and just wait.

From Comicbookmovie.com

"According to sources Warners and Campbell chose Reynolds, over Bradley Cooper (The Hangover) and Jared Leto (Requiem for a Dream). The momentum built for Reynolds in the last week, as he was the only actor whose option was extended. "

I wonder if that means he will not be doing a Deadpool movie anytime soon.
ALSO Green Lantern first flight comes out on DVD soon. The same director who did the Wonder Woman and Superman v Doomsday is doing this too. check it -

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4h1yAArJe8c

it gives me goosebumps. also tomorrow Blackest Night comes out with the Black Lantern Corps. DC is blowing me away lately man! How is DC and this bit of information treating you?

The Avengers Movie update

2009-07-09T17:57:00.005-05:00

http://splashpage.mtv.com/2009/06/30/exclusive-sam-jackson-says-nick-fury-wont-see-action-in-iron-man-2/

EXCLUSIVE: Sam Jackson Says Nick Fury Won’t See Action In ‘Iron Man 2’
Published by Rick Marshall on Tuesday, June 30, 2009 at 6:34 pm.
Back in early May, we got our first look at Samuel L. Jackson as S.H.I.E.L.D. Chief Nick Fury on the set of “Iron Man 2,” looking every bit the bad-ass in black leather and eyepatch — or at least, as bad-ass as someone can look when standing next to a giant donut.

Never mind the environment, we said, Nick Fury is sure to be kickin’ butt and taking names alongside Tony Stark in the “Iron Man” sequel, right? Not so, according to Jackson. In fact, when we caught up with the actor during an event commemorating the 20th anniversary of Spike Lee’s film “Do The Right Thing,” Jackson said fans will likely have to wait for “The Avengers” for Fury to see some action.

“Not this time, not yet,” Jackson told MTV News of the likelihood we’ll see his character become the action hero fans know in “Iron Man 2.” “We still haven’t moved Nick Fury into the bad-ass zone. He’s still just kind of a talker.”

Asked whether fans will have to wait until the superhero team-up in “The Avengers” to see Fury get ready to rumble, Jackson simply said, “Looking forward to that, yeah.”

Along with dropping some hints about Nick Fury’s potential brawl, Jackson also told MTV News that he’s done filming on the project, adding that most of his scenes were shot with Robert Downey Jr., but there were also a few with Scarlett Johansson, too.

With a nine-movie deal for Marvel Studios, it’s likely that we’ll see a lot more of Jackson’s character — and in more than just “Iron Man 2″ or “The Avengers.” Whether his roles in films like “Thor” and “The First Avenger: Captain America” will be similarly low on action or move Nick Fury into a more aggressive place in Marvel’s movie world remains to be seen, though.

What do you think about Nick Fury being more of a “talker” in “Iron Man 2″?
I'm totally looking forward to seeing how these nine turn out. Sound off in the comment section!

Movie Trailers - Movies Blog

Nice girls finish last?

2009-07-08T11:28:00.005-05:00

There has to be more to this. I just won't believe it. How could he pass up Betty and that fantastic ponytail? It makes sense though, Archie is pretty much a bum. Rarely keeps a job, not the brightest bulb, and has an awful haircut.

The Lodge fortune would be pretty sweet.

It's a shame though,he'll gain plenty of wrinkles and grey hair within the first 3 years of living with Veronica.

Sweet Betty, you'll find Mr. Dreamy Ecologist one day.

Bitter?Yes. So here it is officially from Archie Comics, Archie marries Veronica:the Proposal. Due out August 19th,2009.

From the official Archie comics:

The eternal love triangle is the cornerstone of Archie Comics for over 65 years-and the bane of Archie Andrews' existence! In fact, over the years it has not only defined the Betty/Archie/Veronica relationship, but has even threatened to dismantle it a time or 20.

Never was this more evident than in the landmark "Love Showdown" storyline from 1994 and '95. When Archie Comics announced that Archie Andrews may finally choose between Betty & Veronica once and for all, the response from the media, fans and retailers alike was unprecedented-and with good reason! The landmark "Love Showdown" storyline threatened the
certainty of the love triangle and all it stood for, nearly bringing an end to the friendships
of all three characters as Archie chose old flame Cheryl Blossom at story's end!
Readers had nothing to fear, as ultimately Cheryl wore out her welcome in Riverdale. While she's been an occasional presence (and to Betty and Veronica, an occasional nuisance) in the last 15 years, life has returned to normal for Archie and his friends. And that includes his seemingly never-ending inability to choose between Betty and Veronica, no matter how many times he takes them out.
Without question, the "Love Showdown" was the most talked-about, most publicized and most popular Archie Comics story ever. until now! The past 15 years' worth of love triangle
status quo really could be facing extinction in a story that will rock the world of everyone
in Riverdale and be sure to keep people talking for months on end!
In fact, we'll even go so far as to call it the Archie Story of the Century. With a title like "Archie Marries Veronica Part 1: The Proposal," how could we call it anything else?!
Could it be true? Has Archie finally decided to take the plunge and propose to comics' favorite rich girl? It sure looks that way! Earlier this year readers got a chance to relive "Freshman Year" with the famous teens of Riverdale High. Now make way for this special story that takes a look at Archie and his friends after they graduate college! What careers will they seek? Will the friends stay in Riverdale or disperse? What would lead Archie to have marriage on his mind? And why would he choose Veronica over Betty? How will Betty react? Can Archie shake off his klutzy past and hold down a steady job. for more than a month? Two things are certain: with the Lodges as hosts, this will be the biggest wedding Riverdale has ever seen. and the biggest Archie Comics story since the famous "Love Showdown!"
Acclaimed superhero movie producer Michael Uslan draws upon his lifelong love of Archie comic books to write this very special tale, rendered by legendary Archie Comics artist Stan Goldberg! The Archie story of the century begins here. don't miss it!