#1 – DETECTIVE COMICS #441 DC COMICS
Back in the early 1970’s, DC Comics went for a bold move by creating the 100 Page Super-Spectacular. Using their enormous library of old stories, they filled the 100 pagers with reprints featuring older and less known heroes. Most had a common theme to them. Flying Heroes, Speedsters, Heroes that had appeared in the title during the 1940’s, etc. One of the titles that frequently had a problem with keeping with the theme was Detective Comics. And the most oddball gatherings appeared in my favorite entry into the series, #441. While featuring comic detectives Batman, Robin, and Goodwin/Simonson’s Manhunter, the rest were a hodge podge of comic characters from two other comic companies. Starting from right to left in what is by far the most unusual set of headshots ever to appear on a DC Cover were, Fawcett Comics magician, Ibis the Invincible and his girl Taia, Fawcett Comics villain/hero archer, The Spider, the villain/hero Eclipso, and fellow Quality hero, Plastic Man. All of the tales presented here are amazing and really highlight the ever expanding DC Universe.
#2 – FEAR & LOATHING IN LAS VEGAS #1 IDW COMICS
In 1972, famed Gonzo journalist Hunter S Thompson published his epic tale of a failed search for the American Dream. And while it stands as an amazing book, turning it into a comic adaption to a world full of Millennials seemed like something that would never be green lit. So right off the bat, this book flies right in the face of common sense. So cudos to both adaptor Troy Little and IDW Comics for bringing this to the book shelves. The adaptation is spot on and the art style works wonderfully with the subject. This 4-part mini-series is a must have for all Hunter S. Thompson fans.
#3 – WAR OF THE UNDEAD #1 IDW COMICS
Finding this delightful little 3-part mini series which just demands to have a movie made of it, was one of the highlights from 2007. Mixing the classic monsters including the Mummy and the Brides of Dracula, this title is a B-movie lovers dream. It wasn’t until much later that I discovered that this gem of a book was done by Bryan Johnson and Walter Flanagan, who are part of Kevin Smith’s posse from the Secret Stash Comic Store. And while I am not a huge fan of Comic Book Men, I must give these guys the credit they deserve for producing this title.
#4 – HOWARD THE DUCK #16 MARVEL COMICS
I remember the day in 1977 that I walked into my local drug store and found this amazing and mysterious book on display. Once in a Lifetime Issue it read on the cover! Howard had been one of my favorite titles because of it’s off kilter storylines and characters. Heck, just a few issues back, rock band Kiss had made a guest cameo in a weird way. But nothing could have prepared me for this! After one page of standard comic fare, I was overwhelmed by text. The incredible mind of Steve Gerber. My 10 year old mind read the book over and over, and to honest, it just didn’t get it. But I knew this was something special, so I kept the book. Years later, I returned back and found the story a fascinating look into the mind of the comic writer.
#5 – GEN 13 #45 WILDSTORM COMICS
Gen 13 was one of those hit or miss titles. Never a big fan, I did notice when something special was afoot and would grab a quick glance. However, one day a friend of mine asked me if I had even seen the infamous 45th issue. Knowing that I had not, I made an effort to find a copy and brother am I glad I did. Scott Lobdell put together a story that I’m amazed got past the censor board. I mean really, an issue devoted to a mind control gang of supermodels who are controlled by their Fredricks of Hollywood?! Between the general theme and Grunge’s humorous commentary throughout the book. Definitely not politically correct but damn funny and Ed Benes art couldn’t be more on point.
