Comic Christmas List 2010 Part 1: Comics and Movies

The best part of the snowy season is nearly upon us. With the true spirit of Christmas in mind (receiving), I thought I'd list some comic book items that deserve a spot under your tree, next to baby Jesus. Today's post will feature a look at books and trades, and movies.

Books n' Trades

1. Captan America Omnibus by Ed Brubaker, Steve Epting & Co.



If "24" was a comic and kicked even more ass, this would be it. The Omnibus collects the first twenty-five issues of one of the greatest current ongoing runs in modern comics. Featuring healthy doses of action and espionage, Brubaker's run brings past and present together, which, to me, is a compelling effort that makes Cap more relevant and interesting than ever.

2. WE3 by Grant Morrison and Frank Quitely



Although this trade weighs in at a scant three issues, it makes a case for tight story telling (i.e. less is more), not to mention animal rights. While none of the three main characters can speak all that much, Morrison and Quitely evoke a fairly strong emotional response with their story of three experimental weapons on the run from the military.

3. G.I. Joe: Cobra by Christos Gage and Mike Costa



Tired of watching your favourite intellectual property get the Village People treatment? Yeah, me too. If my earlier post about this comic failed to convince you that it's more than worth your money, then simply take my word for it.

4. The Walking Dead Compendium Vol. 1 by Robert Kirkman, Charlie Adlard & Cliff Rathburn



Zombies are great. 1088 pages of zombies is fucking awesome. You can grab the first eight volumes Kirkman's epic tale of survival horror for bottom dollar at Amazon. This would make a great gift for anyone who's watching AMC's The Walking Dead or anyone who loves zombies.

5. Mythology: The DC Comics Art of Alex Ross by Alex Ross



If photorealistic water colour paintings of superheroes don't float your boat then you are dead inside. Get this for someone and make sure to pick up a copy for yourself.

6. Men of Tomorrow: Geeks, Gangsters, and the Birth of the Comic Book by Gerard Jones



This gem is a historical review of the surprisingly ruthless early days of comic books in America. Anyone remotely interested in sequential art absolutely needs to read this story of the birth of the comic industry.

Movies
While in my opinion there were only two comic book movies worth watching this year, against better judgement, I am recommending three.

1. Iron Man 2



Iron Man 2 is awesome. With the origin story out of the way, Jon Favreau delved deeper into Marvel lore with an action packed romp through the world of Marvel's iron-clad version of James Bond. Scarlett Johansson literally rounds out the all-star cast with her performance as Black Widow. The Avengers easter eggs alone make this movie a must-have.


2. Kick-Ass



Many people will argue that Mark Millar has sold out and is only writing comics that will optioned in to films. I don't really care because I'd do the same thing.

Kick-Ass is a rare comic book movie as almost everyone likes it. At it's core Kick-Ass is about good samaritans trying to do the right thing but finding themselves in hot water before long. In addition to Chloe Moretz's iconic performance as the potty-mouthed assassin, Hit-Girl, all the actors deliver strong performances that resonate with audience members. Hell, even Nic Cage, who sucks, puts on a great show as the Adam West-inspired homicidal maniac, Big-Daddy.

3. Scott Pilgrim vs. the World



If someone you know has A.D.D., likes drugs, is into Manga-influenced shit and/or likes Michael Cera, then get this for him/her. I needed beer to get through this movie and that didn't even help all that much.

Coming tomorrow - Apparel, decor and stuff you can't afford!