Comic Book Time Machine: Recent Episodes
Comic Book Time Machine
Yesterday saw the release of TWO comics that are related to the MCU . . . if not part of the MCU proper. The Inifinty Watch #1 continues the event from last summer and spring, which featured the return of Coulson from the dead to take on the role of …
The Comic Book Time Machine takes on something a little different from its usual fair of fanciful fantasy and artful action adventure . . . this time exploring a thoughtful and touching slice of life, with a graphic novel about parenthood, trauma, and dealing with the previous generation while raising …
Coulson’s story continues in comics as he gets brought back to life and the newest Infinity Stone gives him some sort of death power . . . what does it mean? We find out a little bit more in the final six pages of the following annuals:Ms. Marvel Annual #1 …
Ben returns to the world of LOGAN’S RUN with a comic story that is TOTALLY NOT Logan’s Run, but TOTALLY IS Logan’s Run. What do you do when you have a Logan’s Run comic book issue, but don’t have the Logan’s Run license? You strip it of every specific detail …
All four of this episode’s comics came in bags, but not blind bags. Still, Ben had no idea what to expect from these three IDW Transformers comics and one original Dollar Tree comic based on their original action figure line Final Faction.
What Ben found inside:
A Transformers comic that was perfectly fine
A Transformers comic that was a LOT of fun
A Transformers comic that inspired him creatively and gave him some new structural storytelling methods to consider
And an action figure line that went FULL ON G.I. Joe!!!
“Wait. What?” ~ Ben’s exact words when he was looking at comic book soliciations for last month.
But The Human Fly is back! It’s a new series! A new continuity! A new creative team! A new publisher! A new millennium!
But the same concept: he’s the wildest superhero every . . . because he’s real!
And he’s starting with two new stories in a #0 issue.
So, what does Ben think about it? Find out here!
Philip Coulson died in the comics. Then he returned as an evil creation of Mephisto. And now he’s back again!
This episode is being posted to both Comic Book Time Machine and Welcome to Level Seven since it deals with both the worlds of Agents of SHIELD and the comic books!
Ben digs into his stash of blind bags for some blind bag comics fun, opening a bag he doesn’t remember buying that reveals:
- A Superman comic he hopes will be good and is probably the reason he bought the bag (it’s an annual, meaning it’s a longer read
- A comic from Continuity Comics, a company he was familiar with because a friend read them, but this was his first real introduction to reading comics from this publisher
- A comic he thought he had read before in a previous blind bag episode . . . and (spoiler) he was right
The question is: even if one of these comics is something he has read before in another blind bag episode, with the Annual’s extra length will this bag feel like a successful blind bag experience? Will the Superman annual be a satisfying story? And what’s the deal with Continuity Comics?
All this and more (but not much more) in this episode of The Comic Book Time Machine!
Seven months ago or so, Ben took a look at the first two issues of a Marvel franchise crossover and a DC franchise crossover. He pitted the two debut issues against each other then, but now he’s BACK to follow up on these series not that they have concluded.
And this time, there is a definitive winner. One of these comic series comes out on top as a winner in Ben’s estimation.
But the crossovers are fun, using the different worlds and characters to their full advantage to tell two very different stories.
Listen to the first episode discussing the first issue of each series here: PREDATOR VS WOLVERINE Verses JUSTICE LEAGUE VS KONG VS GODZILLA (Ben)- CBTM 186
Using Star Wars as a guideline, we’re exploring comic books based on licensed properties that Marvel Comics published from 1977 to 1986.
It’s the end of an era. Ben reads the final two issues of John Carter, Warlord of Mars from Marvel Comics, wrapping up another of Marvel’s Cosmic Comic Series.
John Carter, the Marvel comic title, began before Star Wars and surely gained a slight boost because of Star Wars, but it did not last nearly as long as the Star Wars comic series did. Like The Human Fly, 2001, Man from Atlantis, and many other licensed titles, John Carter was canceled and faded into obscurity.
But Star Wars DID give it some new life . . . in 1981. And Ben ALSO picks up two Star Wars comics from 1981 that connect to the John Carter comic series.
OK. It’s not a muck monster . . . and may not technically be a swamp, but a CREATURE from a LAGOON is close enough!!!
Join Ben as he talks about a comic series he was wary about, but after taking the chance on the first two issues, he is ALL IN! (Sorry for the spoiler . . . but he liked it.)
For the first time in Comic Book Time Machine history, Ben reviews a comic from THE FUTURE!
This basically means that thanks to Mad Cave, publishers of today’s comic book topic, Ben was able to read an advanced reader’s copy of GATCHAMAN #1 and GATCHAMAN – KEN: DEATHMATCH! So not as impressive as time traveling BUT it was still fun! (Thank you, Mad Cave!!!)
Not unusual for the Comic Book Time Machine, these comics acted as a time machine that took Ben back into the past, and in this episode Ben nostalgically looks back at his Gatchaman fandom . . . which did not start out as Gatchaman fandom at all, but started with Battle of the Planets . . . the Americanized and sanitized version of Gatchaman brought to English speaking audiences by Sandy Frank Productions.
So did he like the NEW series? You’ll have to sit through a lot of talking about childhood memories to find out!
Ben reads the smallest comics he has ever seen!
And by “reads”, we mean “looks at and tries to read but they’re so small”!
Join us for an unboxing of tiny figures with tiny comics!!!
Using Star Wars as a guideline, we’re exploring comic books based on licensed properties that Marvel Comics published from 1977 to 1986.
For this episode, Ben reads the FINAL three chapters in the 12-issue epic “Master Assassin of Mars” from JOHN CARTER issues 25-27, cover dated July 1979, August 1979, and September 1979!
Coincidentally, there was a hiatus between issues 24 and 25 . . . just like there was a hiatus between the episodes covering those issues! For Marvel, it was like two months. For Ben . . . much longer.
NOTE: For Marvel’s Cosmic Comics, Ben is choosing a BOLD NEW way of doing things that he’s going to try out with John Carter. Multiple issues per episode, and not month by month. This means he might jump around a bit between series and not go chronologically through the calendar, month by month.
In the days after the fall of the Galatic Empire, one man stands to seek justice for Emperor Palpatine. Kir Kanos the last Imperial Royal Guard, seeks vengeance on all those who killed the Emperor as the last act of his sacred oath. Daniel delves into this story and chronicles why he enjoys this new to him 25 year old Star Wars arc, what he finds works best for Star Wars storytelling, and what appeals to him about Kir Kanos.
It’s a battle royale of battle royale comics! Predator vs Wolverine verses Justice League vs Kong vs Godzilla!!!
Which comic book will win? Which has the better art? The better story? The better price? The better covers?
And when it comes down to it, which ones will Ben continue reading???
Man-Thing celebrated his 50th anniversary recently, and so as time goes on the issues of his comic books have been celebrating their own 50th anniversaries!
While I am not sure how long this will last, I wanted to take a look at these comics . . . about 50 years later.
In this issue, Man-Thing is drawn into a conflict with a man and a woman who are in a conflict over a child . . . and the relationship trauma and issues and inter-personal dynamics may not be great, but the story sets up some of what’s to come from THE MAN-THING!!!
MAN-THING’S ORIGINS (Savage Tales #1 and Astonishing Tales #12 and 13) Swamp Things Ep. 2 – CBTM103
Using Star Wars as a guideline, we’re exploring comic books based on licensed properties that Marvel Comics published from 1977 to 1986.
For this episode, Ben reads the next three chapters in the 12 issue epic “Master Assassin of Mars” from JOHN CARTER issues 21-23, December 1978, January 1979, and February 1979!
John Carter? That’s not what was SUPPOSED to show up here! Ben is choosing a BOLD NEW way of doing things that he’s going to try out with John Carter. Multiple issues per episode, and not month by month.
Ben opens another blind bag, this one purchased from a store that purchased it from a Wal-Mart to resell it. Ben rescued it from a table filled with random items from Wal-Mart. The comic books inside are not anything that Ben would read on his own, but since he purchased the blind bag, well, he reads what’s inside.
And what’s inside? Inside, Ben finds:
Star Wars #14 [Second Printing Variant]
Howard the Duck #3 [Second Printing]
All-New Inhumans #3 [Second Printing]
Secret Wars #7 [Second Printing]
Doctor Strange #12 [Second Printing Variant]
All-New X-Men #1 [Mark Bagley Cover]
Secret Empire #7 [Second Printing]
Here is a cover gallery of the comics from this blind bag:
No, your ears aren’t deceiving you! This episode is going out on THREE different feeds! We recording this episode for WELCOME TO LEVEL SEVEN (Ben’s podcast about the Marvel Cinematic Universe), and his co-host Stewart agreed to let him repurpose it over here, because SWAMP COMICS!!! Here we have the …
Using Star Wars as a guideline, we’re exploring comic books based on licensed properties that Marvel Comics published from 1977 to 1986. Ben returns to 1979 to read the toy-line tie-in SHOGUN WARRIORS! Last issue introduced three pilots and one robot . . . but this issue brings two more robots …
Recently, Ben was a guest on The Baron Earls Show, and he had the chance to chat with them about his comic book career, current projects, and other fun things. You can find The Baron Earls Show here:https://www.youtube.com/c/TheBARONEARLSShow You can find SuperSonic Pod Comics here:http://supersonicpodcomics.com
A mini-series Ben learned about almost accidentally became a pleasant surprise. It was self-contained, all the parts were well written, and it referenced the past and present in ways that were accessible and easy to understand. This is a “lost episode” in the sense that it was recorded and then …
So in the previous episode from the main feed of Comic Book Time Machine, Ben talked about the first part of the Flea Market Challenge – he had $3 cash in his wallet and determined to find a comic or two that he would enjoy but only using the $3 …
In the 1960s, Doctor Who’s enemies enjoyed some popularity among the youth of England. Because of contractual ownership, Terry Nation, as the Daleks’ creator, was able to license the characters for a number of things, including the comic strips contained in this collection. And what a collection! In this episode, …
(We have moved our websites to a new server, and as a result we lost this post, meaning I had to re-upload it. Please accept our apologies if you had this show up in your feed twice. Thank you!) Using Star Wars as a guideline, we’re exploring comic books based on …
So while at an antique store with my wife, I came across a box of comics. Amidst the too-expensive for what they were back issues, was a packet of comics that had an original price tag of $14.95 and that included a graphic novel with a cover price of $13.95 …
An unexpected find at the comic book shop! Alone, on a shelf off to the side, was an unusually formatted book: large format, saddle stitched, on cheaper cardstock. It was a Star Trek graphic novel in a decidedly un-graphic novel format. Purchased on a whim, it turned out to be …
Using Star Wars as a guideline, we’re exploring comic books based on licensed properties that Marvel Comics published from 1977 to 1986. And we’re beginning the journey to find a lonely plant . . . known as . . . EARTH! So excited! Battlestar Galactica was absolutely the product of a …
Drawn by two primary things – the alternate Marvel universe and Phil Coulson – Ben gave Heroes Reborn a chance. Ben hated the Coulson part, but the series itself was so good that he went all in and got all the tie-ins. This episode covers the main series – the …
NOTE: This episode was SUPPOSED to be episode 163 . . . but I screwed up! So we’re posting it NOW, as episode 169. Sorry!!! (~ Ben) Disney+ is six months old, so Matt interviewed our resident Disney expert, Daniel Butcher, to get his thoughts on how the new streaming …
What a time to love comic book swamp monsters! First up: Ben takes a quick look at the second issue of Swamp Thing Future State Then: The Swamp Thing is a ten issue maxi-series by Ram V and Mike Perkins, introducing a new Swamp Thing to protect the green Finally: …
The end of 2020 and beginning of 2021 featured two comic book events with Swamp Thing, and this week had a couple swamp related surprises in the comics world. As usual, Ben judges these swamp based comics using the following paradigm:CONTENT – is the story good?COVER – is the cover …
Ben takes a look at a blind bag comic set that Wal-Mart had earlier this summer, set to be released to coincide with the Wonder Woman sequel. Now that the movie is actually being released, Ben pulled out the “bag” and opened it to read the Wonder Woman tie-in and …
It’s the 70s! And it’s a serial killer! And it’s Santa Claus!?! It’s a Christmas miracle that I found this comic on Christmas Eve when I was waiting for my kids to fall asleep and it’s an audacious framing story that allows Cain and Abel to tell some middling horror …
It’s the Christmas season! Who’s up for a good murder mystery? Well, if you are up for a good murder mystery, you’re going to have to settle for this . . . Three stories. One hundred pages. And a LOT of groaning. It’s not ALL awful, but it’s close. Merry …
Using Star Wars as a guideline, we’re exploring comic books based on licensed properties that Marvel Comics published from 1977 to 1986. Star Wars continues! Luke faces Vader . . . in a hallucination! Han Solo faces Chewy . . . in a zero-G arena! Leia faces stormtroopers . . . …
Two swamp-related comics have been released recently, so Ben heads off to the swamps to record about them. As usual, Ben judges these swamp based comics using the following paradigm:CONTENT – is the story good?COVER – is the cover poster-worthy?CREATURE – how does the creature look? LEGEND OF THE SWAMP …
Wal-Mart and DC Comics are done with the 100-Page Giants, and have now moved to a blind bag style of comics. Each blind bag isn’t really BLIND because they are packaging the same four comics in each of the five different packages, and t’s not really new because they’ve been …
Back in 2013, Daniel and Matt recorded a long conversation discussing every single series released as part of the first wave of The New 52!
An overview and review of the new Allegiance Comics publisher’s output, with their four “pilot episode” comics: Bass Reeves, an historical fiction biography western; Red Rooster, a superhero period piece; Norah’s Saga, a young adult geared adventure series set in modern day Canada, but featuring vikings; and The Futurists, an …
After receiving a gift of a sealed set of comics from the 80s, Ben of course opens the set and immediately destroys the collectible value! But what does he find inside? Well, he wasn’t surprised by the issues (the packaging revealed that much), but he WAS surprised when he read …
The full team of the three comic book time travelers is together again to talk about a comic book series that none of them had read and none of them new what to expect! The never before collected GREEN TEAM: TEEN TRILLIONAIRES (and the ONLY uncollected series from the first …
The world is on lockdown! Millions are stuck inside their homes! Yet quarantine has led to Daniel and Matt reuniting to discuss comic books from yesterday, today, and tomorrow!
The world is on lockdown! Millions are stuck inside their homes! Yet quarantine has led Ben to read some comics that he may not have read, because it led him to make some purchase he may not have made. The comic shops Ben talked about are:BuyMeToys.com and Tom’s Vintage Toy …
Ben returns to the swamp for a Man-Thing related episode! This time, he takes a look at the NEW swamp character, Man-Slaughter! And he pops open a soda that’s swamp-themed AND Avery-themed. And post credit, he takes a look at the Funko Pop Man-Thing figure.
Using Star Wars as a guideline, we’re exploring comic books based on licensed properties that Marvel Comics published from 1977 to 1986. The Master Assassin of Mars continues . . . with gladiatorial combat in an arena against a very big lion with a large number of legs. And teeth. But …
The Micronauts move from inner space to yard space as they take on one of the great dangers of the back yard - a lawn mower!
It’s the 70s! And it’s a serial killer! And it’s Jack the Ripper! And it’s based on a story by the writer of PSYCHO and that Jack the Ripper episode of Star Trek! It’s time to Journey into the Mysterious House of Terror’s Vault of Astonishing Suspense!!!
The Human Fly travels to his next stunt location and find some real world issues that need to be taken care of, REAL-LIFE SUPERHERO STYLE!
Godzilla, now man-sized, sneaks through the city . . . until he comes to a face-off with Dum Dum Dugan. A face-off that finally allows Dum Dum and Big-G to come face to face and go mano-a-mano!
One of Ben’s favorite comics of all time is Hercules: Prince of Power #1, for a number of reasons. And for a number of reasons he has not devoted an episode about it. But when he was asked to come up with his favorite comic for a YouTube show he’s …
Ben returns to the swamp to talk about: How Wal-Mart has changed the way they are publishing their exclusive 100 Page Giants, which are no longer exclusive, and how Ben has released himself from having to buy them all GIANT SWAMP THING #2, featuring two brand new stories that Ben …
Ben opens a Wal-Mart exclusive blind bag and gets a number of surprises, including a series that he wants to read, some #1 issues that actually AREN’T, and a lot more unwrapping than he expected.
Journey to the swamp with Ben as he covers: Alan Moore’s Saga of the Swamp Thing volume 1 (issues 20-27) The Wal-Mart exclusive 100 Page Comic Giant Swamp Thing #5 Swamp Monsters, the collection of public domain pre-code swamp monster horror comics The first three episodes of DC Universe’s Swamp …
Ben goes to his neighborhood comic/collectibles shop and gets some free comics and buys some comics. This episode, he talks about his “haul”. And while he didn’t plan to record a review of what he got, he did get around to reading some of the comics . . . and …
The twelfth episode in the SWAMP THINGS: COMIC BOOK MUCK MEN, BOG BEASTS, AND MUD MONSTERS series takes a look at the all new Wal-Mart exclusive Swamp Thing series — part of their 100-Page Comic Giant series! This episode is an overview of the changes made to the Wal-Mart exclusive …
In this episode, we present to you a Christmas time comic conversation that Daniel and Matt had during an afternoon of fun they shared together.
This comic was a “grail” comic for me that I found while at a comic book convention a little while ago. I was waiting for a special time to podcast about it. That time is now! But it was not at al what I expected! So did I like it? …
A weird trilogy from the Fantastic Four’s history, featuring a weird new team! Ghost Rider! Hulk! Spider-Man! Wolverine! Together, they are the NEW FANTASTIC FOUR! This one has everything! At least, that’s what the cover promises. “Even the kitchen sink.” In truth, it IS a fun superhero romp. And one …
Two comics. Two wars. Two creatures. Two retcons. One man: Nick Fury. But these two comics tell the story of two different Nick Furys: one, the World War II sergeant, the other a Vietnam War era Agent of SHIELD. Take a trip back in time to witness the origin of …
October 2018 brought two long collections of short stories: Cursed Comics Cavalcade is a collection of brand new stories, an 80 page book for $9.99 found in comic shops Swamp Thing Halloween Horror 100-Page Comic Giant, a 100page book for $4.99 found only at Wal-Mart Both feature Swamp Thing …
Today’s entry in the week of weird is a fantastic comic series, Wolff and Byrd: Counselors of the Macabre! Featuring werewolves, vampires, zombies, ghosts, and ghouls who all share a common problem: they need lawyers. Also featuring a subplot about Sodd, the Thing Called It! A swamp monster subplot? I’m …
For today’s episode in the Week of Weird, one of the weirdest comics I’ve ever read. Bill Mantlo, Keith Giffen, and Klaus Jansen create a tale that should be goofy or campy, and yet it carries some surprising depth. Not super deep depth, but the depth it DOES reach is …
Today, Ben takes a look at the FIRST DC/Marvel crossover! Issue number 56 of Aquaman and issue 72 of Sub-Mariner link up in an odd . . . perhaps strange . . . or one might even say WEIRD way. Written by the same writer, elements from one story lead …
Shogun Warriors, a Doug Moench and Herb Trimpe work based on the Mattel toyline that merged a number of Japanese properties into one, gets its origin in this "1st ISSUE COLLECTOR'S ITEM"! And the license seems to be in good hands!
Matt is reading through the historic maxi-series, Crisis on Infinite Earths, for the first time. The original Crisis was released during 1985 and 1986, and was ultimately used to reboot the DC Universe. This is the finale of Matt’s coverage of this event, as he tackles the last 3 …
In every episode of The What If Challenge, Matt will review three comics from the “What If…?” series, and then rates and ranks those issues. Which “What If…?” will be the best?!? Find out here! Excelsior!
Ben takes a look at Infinity Wars Prime, Infinity Wars 1-3, Infinity Wars: Soldier Supreme, and Infinity Wars: Iron Hammer. Ben bought the comics on a whim, and not knowing what to expect he was surprised at the twists and turns the story had.
Matt is joined by special guest host, Evan David, to discuss all sorts of comic books in this free-flowing conversation.
Matt is joined by Evan David as they review the classic Superman Elseworlds story, “Red Son.”
For a guy with no regular series, Swamp Thing sure is getting around. In the last couple of months he’s shown up in: Damage #6 Scooby-Doo Team Up #40 Injustice vs. Masters of the Universe #1 Suicide Squad Annual #1 And truth be told, most of his appearances are pretty …
Ben takes a look at the exclusive 100 page anthology books that DC Comics has made to be exclusively carried by Wal-Mart. These books are: Featuring: Wonder Woman in “The Conversion” (original story) Justice League (2011) #1 The Flash (2011) #1 Aquaman (2011) #1 Featuring: Batman in “One More Chance” …
Ben reads a BUNCH of #1 issues from the last month or so…and ONE from a LONG time ago. In this episode: Captain America #1 Amazing Spider-Man #1 (and the Free Comic Book Day issue) Superman #1 (and Man of Steel issues 1-6) Superman Giant #1 Batman Giant #1 Justice …
This is not a review of Action Comics #1000, but Daniel and Matt do celebrate the release of this milestone book by meeting two “Superman” writers, Dan Jurgens and Patrick Gleason.
Ben finds a gem of a comic from his childhood at a comic shop near the camp where he’s working and that comic book becomes in itself a comic book time machine. This anthology contains stories featuring Superman, Green Lantern, the Marvel Family, and soldiers and dinosaurs! It also contained …
With the Cloak and Dagger TV show around the corner, Ben takes a look back at Cloak and Dagger’s early appearances, from their first appearances in Peter Parker: The Spectacular Spider-Man to their own four issue mini-series to their team-up with Spider-Man in a Marvel Team-Up Annual to a one …
Ben travels back in time by cracking open another “rainy day” comic book grab bag from Target! This one features: Ultimate Fantastic Four #43 Starman #43 Legionnaries #13 The Mighty Thor #248
Ben and special co-host Evan David had the chance to host some Facebook Live streams for BuyMeToys.com, their local comic shop, to help get the workout about Free Comic Book Day! This episode features some of their conversations during that time and then Ben talks about some of the fun …
Matt is reading through the historic maxi-series, Crisis on Infinite Earths, for the first time. The original Crisis was released during 1985 and 1986, and was ultimately used to reboot the DC Universe. Issues #1-6 have been covered during other Event features of The Comic Book Time Machine, and Matt …
"Deathgame" continues Archie Goodwin's original Star Wars tale taking place on The Wheel, a space casino that puts everyone in danger! And the stakes just keep on rising! In a world where Empire Strikes Back was still only in script form, the Star Wars universe grew here!
The fifth episode of SWAMP THINGS: COMIC BOOK MUCK MEN, BOG BEASTS, AND MUD MONSTERS features the much anticipated (by Ben) Swamp Thing Winter Special, but also features a couple surprise swamp monster titles and a character Ben absolutely hates. (Again.) Covering: Swamp Thing Winter Special — By Len Wein, …
In this episode, we present to you a Christmas time comic conversation that Daniel and Matt had during a morning of fun they shared together.
Ben opens up another grab bag of comics and inside he discovers: Secret Origins #26 Power Man and Iron Fist #1 Dark Avengers #179 Marvel Apes #2
Using Star Wars as a guideline, we’re exploring comic books based on licensed properties that Marvel Comics published from 1977 to 1986. Looking at all the Marvel licensed books cover dated January 1979, Ben reads: Introduction — 0:00-7:20 Star Wars #19 — THE ULTIMATE GAMBLE — 7:20-22:35 (Danger on a space …
The fourth episode SWAMP THINGS: COMIC BOOK MUCK MEN, BOG BEASTS, AND MUD MONSTERS features a overview of Len Wein’s original Swamp Thing, as Swamp Thing makes a trek through horror monster tropes like werewolves, aliens, ghosts, and Lovecraftian monsters! Also featuring two recent appearances of Swamp Thing and Man-Thing! …
In every episode of The What If Challenge, Matt will review three issues from the “What If…?” series, and then rates and ranks those issues. Which “What If…?” will be the best?!? Find out here! Excelsior!
To supplement his coverage of Hulu’s Runaways TV show over at Welcome to Level Seven, Ben sought out the original comic series that started it all! While he has been blown away by the TV show, he was not sure what to expect when he read the series that inspired …
Matt is reading through the historic maxi-series, Crisis on Infinite Earths, for the first time. The original Crisis was released during 1985 and 1986, and was ultimately used to reboot the DC Universe. Issues #1-6 have been covered during other Event features of The Comic Book Time Machine, and Matt …
Ben opens a comic book grab bag, this time a bag of four “out of print comics” for $6. All of them surprised him, one way or another. The comics inside this time are:
Taking a look at Superman and Batman's recent interaction with Swamp Thing and an old interaction they had with El Monster, a swamp monster with a couple secrets.
In every episode of The What If Challenge, Matt will review three comics from the “What If…?” series, and then rates and ranks those issues. Which “What If…?” will be the best?!? Find out here! Excelsior!
Back in May 2015, during Episode 50 of the Comic Book Time Machine, we all chose 10 comic books that we wanted to read by Episode 100. Now, Daniel and Matt are back to review each of their lists. Did the comics live up to their expectations? Find out here! …
Ben opens a comic book grab bag, this time a bag of four “out of print comics” for $6. All of them surprised him, one way or another. The comics inside are:
Using Star Wars as a guideline, we’re exploring comic books based on licensed properties that Marvel Comics published from 1977 to 1986. Looking at all the Marvel licensed books cover dated December 1978, Ben reads: Introduction — 0:00-5:35 Star Wars #18 — THE EMPIRE STRIKES — 5:35-29:35 (Although it doesn’t strike back!) Human …
Swamp Things: Comic Book Muck Men, Bog Beasts, and Mud Monsters #2 The second in a new sub-series exploring the deepest depths of the swamp and of humanity in Ben’s favorite sub-genre: swamp monsters in comics! From Swamp Thing to Man-Thing to the Heap to Sludge to the random short stories …
Ben takes a look at two comic books intended for grocery store customers to purchase. One is clearly aimed at potential collectors and the other is clearly aimed at getting parents to purchase for young potential collectors. One features Spider-Man while the other features Wonder Woman and Batman. It’s a …
Exploring swamp monsters of the comics, from Swamp Thing to Man-Thing to the Heap to Sludge to the random short stories in horror anthologies, starting with the FIRST swamp monster as we know them today: Theodore Sturgeon's IT! from Marvel Comics' Supernatural Thrillers #1.
To celebrate 100 episodes of both the Marvel’s Cosmic Comics sub-feed AND the main feed, we cover John Carter’s 2nd annual AND John Carter’s big screen appearance! First, The Headmen of Mars, a fantastic story of horror and weirdness! Then, my review of John Carter, the movie, from a 2012 episode of …
Matt is joined by special guest host, Evan David, to discuss all sorts of comic books in this free-flowing conversation.
Ben opens a comic book grab bag, this time a bag of four “out of print comics” for $6. All of them surprised him, one way or another. The comics inside are:
With news of Carrie Fisher’s passing, plans changed and Ben take a look back at the comic book mini-series that pays a fitting tribute to the character that Carrie Fisher brought to life: Princess Leia. Rebel leader, princess, and icon, Princess Leia turned the concept of “save the princess” on …
Looking at all the Marvel licensed books cover dated November 1978, Ben reads: Introduction — 0:00-5:15 Star Wars #17 — CRUCIBLE — 5:15-24:55 (Flashback to Luke’s past!) Godzilla #16 — THE GREAT GODZILLA ROUNDUP — 24:55-49:05 (Godzilla vs. some modern day cowboys!) Human Fly #15 — WAR IN THE WASHINGTON MONUMENT — 49:05-1:15:10 …
For Christmas, Ben takes a look at the second Star Trek: The Next Generation issue, a holiday themed issue. He reminiscences about Star Trek, analyzes the issue, and has fun getting into his Star Trek fandom. Then, post-credit, the Comic Book Time Machine team (Ben, Matt, Daniel, and Evan) celebrate …
Saturday Night Live! A Star Wars comic with barely no Star Wars movie characters, but with the return of the giant rabbit! Dangerous death-defying on hot air balloons! It's just another month of Marvel's cosmic comics!
It’s almost election day! So Ben decided to have some FUN with politics! Prez is the story of the U.S.A.’s first teen president, a story that didn’t happen…but could. It’s a little bit political satire, it’s a little bit Mad magazine styled jokes, and a little bit of fun for …
It’s Halloween, so ben takes a look at a horror themed story from the Dr. Strange comics: THE MONTESI FORMULA, or DOCTOR STRANGE VS. DRACULA from issues 58-62. This also ties into the MCU with both Doctor Strange, who is appearing in a movie, and the Darkhold, a book that …
Daniel and Matt went shopping for comics. Along the way, they had a chance to talk with some of the writers and artists involved in DC’s current initiative, “Rebirth.” This episode chronicles their various recordings throughout their time together on June 25, 2016.
Han Solo vs. Crimson Jack! Human Fly vs. a corrupt news guy! Godzilla vs. three super beasts from space! John Carter vs. a master assassin! And more!
Matt is reading through the historic maxi-series, Crisis on Infinite Earths, for the first time. The original Crisis was released during 1985 and 1986, and was ultimately used to reboot the DC Universe. Issues #1-6 have been covered during other Event features of The Comic Book Time Machine, but Matt …
With Marvel’s All-New Ghost Rider getting time on the screen on Marvel’s Agents of SHIELD, Ben takes at look at Robbie Reyes’ turn as the next version of the flaming skull-headed, fiery vehicle driving, supernaturally powered anti-hero! You can get more Agents of SHIELD podcast action by visiting WELCOME TO …
This episode takes listeners back in time to before there was a Comic Book Time Machine. Flashback to May 2014, and hear Ben and Matt have a Skype conversation all about what the Comic Book Time Machine podcast could be like. Some things we discussed happened, but some things are …
Looking at all the Marvel licensed books cover dated August 1978, Ben reads: Star Wars #14 — THE SOUND OF ARMAGEDDON — 5:05-16:50 (The water world war finale) Human Fly #12 — ARNIE’S STORY — 16:50-37:05 (The untold story of a stuntman’s publicist…finally told!) Godzilla #13 — THE MEGA MONSTERS FROM BEYOND PART 2: …
On May 25th, 2016, DC Comics launched their Rebirth initiative. Incorporating parts of The New 52 Universe with the pre-Flashpoint Universe, Rebirth aims at being the best of both worlds. Filled with lots of heart, and some significant surprises, this comic was a great read. In this episode, hear …
Looking at all the Marvel licensed books cover dated July 1978, Ben reads: Star Wars #13 — DAY OF THE DRAGONLORDS! — 5:30-22:10 (The water world war escalates) Godzilla #12 — THE MEGA MONSTERS FROM BEYOND PART 1: THE BETA BEAST! — 22:10-50:15 (a multi-part space epic begins) Human Fly #11 …
Looking at all the Marvel licensed books cover dated June 1978, Ben reads: Star Wars #12 — DOOMWORLD! — 4:13-18:33 (Luke Skywalker’s continuing adventure on a waterworld) Godzilla #11 — ARENA FOR THREE! — 18:33-39:44 (an epic three way Kaiju battle) Human Fly #10 — …DARK AS A DUNGEON DOWN IN …
It’s a new series! A new publisher! And a new canon! Ben explores the ongoing Star Wars series as it dives into new stories taking place directly after the first Star Wars movie!
Marvel has re-colored it’s classic adaptations of the Star Wars original trilogy. Does it work? Is it worth buying? Is it just a cash grab, or does it make sense for them to create these “special editions”? And what other extras did they dig up to include within these hardcovers? Ben …
Looking at all the Marvel licensed books cover dated May 1978, Ben reads: the beginning of a new Star Wars epic; the beginning of a new John Carter epic; Human Fly’s team up (sort of) with Daredevil; Godzilla’s battle with a giant bigfoot; the Man from Atlantis’ battle with some spores; and Kirby’s Machine …
In this episode, we present to you an ongoing conversation that Daniel and Matt had during a day of fun they shared together. Listen as they discuss “Secret Wars,” “Star Wars,” and “Vader Down,” as well as open Christmas presents and visit their local comic shop. Plus they give …
As part of the Murphy Anderson tribute crossover with other comic book podcasts, The Comic Book Time Machine is taking a look at the Strange Adventures feature series “Atomic Knights”, a post-apocalyptic series about a men in medieval armor who ride giant dalmatians!
Looking at all the Marvel licensed books cover dated April 1978, Ben reads: the finale of the Star Wars "Seven Samurai in Space" story; the origin of Dejah Thoris; Human Fly's team up with White Tiger; Godzilla's attack on Vegas; the Man from Atlantis' battle with some mist; a sci-fi one shot; and two books by Jack Kirby!
Daniel continues his quest to better understand one of his favorite comic heroes Mark Shaw by looking at his third appearance, Justice League of America 141. The story from 1977, “No World Escapes the Manhunters!” by Steve Englehart sees the Justice League fighting the Manhunters on three fronts as the Manhunters attempt to discredit …
In the first every Between Disney Podcast Special, Daniel discusses Haunted Mansion themed books and comics. Daniel breaks down the key strengths in the works of two different Haunted Mansion themed authors. And because its comic book time machine he talks about the Haunted Mansion comic anthology collection. The titles …
Ben reads the second Man from Atlantis comic, the FINAL issue in the Air Pirates of Mars from John Carter, the actual battle between Red Ronin and Godzila, and, of course, Star Wars
“Time Runs Out” is a Marvel event that started in September 2014. This event stars the Avengers, and is the next big part of the story that Jonathan Hickman has been telling in both “Avengers” and “New Avengers” since he took over those titles at the beginning of the Marvel …
Justice League: Gods and Monsters Part 5 (of 5) - the movie! Ben and his guest Evan David explore this comic series spawned by a direct to home market movie in a week long, five part series culminating with a discussion about the movie itself. This is a world where Superman is not Superman. Batman is not Batman. Wonder Woman is not Wonder Woman. And they are all gods and monsters!
Justice League: Gods and Monsters Part 4 (of 5) - The Justice League's Genesis! Ben and his guest Evan David explore this comic series spawned by a direct to home market movie in a week long, five part series culminating with a discussion about the movie itself. This is a world where Superman is not Superman. Batman is not Batman. Wonder Woman is not Wonder Woman. And they are all gods and monsters!
Justice League: Gods and Monsters Part 3 (of 5) - Wonder Woman! Ben and his guest Evan David explore this comic series spawned by a direct to home market movie in a week long, five part series culminating with a discussion about the movie itself. This is a world where Superman is not Superman. Batman is not Batman. Wonder Woman is not Wonder Woman. And they are all gods and monsters!
Justice League: Gods and Monsters Part 2 (of 5) - Superman! Ben and his guest Evan David explore this comic series spawned by a direct to home market movie in a week long, five part series culminating with a discussion about the movie itself. This is a world where Superman is not Superman. Batman is not Batman. Wonder Woman is not Wonder Woman. And they are all gods and monsters!
Justice League: Gods and Monsters Part 1 (of 5) - Batman! Ben and his guest Evan David explore this comic series spawned by a direct to home market movie in a week long, five part series culminating with a discussion about the movie itself. This is a world where Superman is not Superman. Batman is not Batman. Wonder Woman is not Wonder Woman. And they are all gods and monsters!
The gang’s back together and Ben talks about the joys of Secret Wars II month 6, Matt talks about the milestone series Crisis on Infinite Earths #6, and Matt gets Speedball mixed in with his Amazing Spider-Man annual #22!
Daniel looks at another franchise from his childhood retranslated into comic form in IDW’s G.I. Joe: The Fall of G.I. Joe Volume One. Daniel discusses his expectations for a property who’s strongest memories were tied to a cartoon and how his expectations were shattered. And he includes his thoughts on …
Ben unwraps another sealed, blind polybag, this time with comics that are mostly by Top Cow, with one notable exception. Don’t read on if you want to experience the comics as Ben reveals what he’s about to read and then deep dives into this $3.99 bag that promises $15 of …
Daniel discusses Knight Rider: Volume 1 published by Lion Force Comics and IDW written by Geoffrey Thorne. Daniel gives a thumbnail of the story. And then he goes all 80s discussing differences in the story for the original television show, including what he liked and did not like.
In this episode, Matt is joined by the host of the “Voices In My Head” podcast, Rick Lee James (www.rickleejames.com) as they discuss the classic Spider-Man story from 1965, “The Master Planner Saga.”
When Ben has Matt and Daniel help him pick a random comic from his “want to read” pile, he ends up with a comic that he just plain did not want to record about after reading it, it was that bad. So he chose to switch the random selection and …
Here’s the experiment: Ben wants to read through the classic Marvel licensed books that coincided with Star Wars, so during these episodes he reads a full month of Marvel’s sci-fi comics based on books, TV, and movies! Titles, so far, include Human Fly, Star Wars, Godzilla, John Carter of Mars, …
Daniel, Ben and Matt talk about a recent convention going experience that included a couple challenges and some surprises. 1. What is the most boring comic Ben ever read? Find out here! 2. Who found the best thing for under $4, Ben or Matt? 3. Opening some blind bags — …
Ben finds a $3 poly bag of comics at a Dollar General store, boasting four popular comics worth over $10 (plus a free bonus trading card!). What’s inside? Ben opens it while recording, finding two comics he never heard of, one comic he adores, and a comic he read twenty …
Daniel reviews the new Comic Block subscription service from Nerd Block. Daniel discusses his thoughts on the contents, what he liked and did not, and his thoughts on a monthly subscription. Nerd Block can be found at https://www.nerdblock.com/comic Review Copy Provided by Nerd Block
“Time Runs Out” is a Marvel event that started in September 2014. This event stars the Avengers, and is the next big part of the story that Jonathan Hickman has been telling in both “Avengers” and “New Avengers” since he took over those titles at the beginning of the Marvel …
Here’s the experiment: Ben wants to read through the classic Marvel licensed books that coincided with Star Wars, so during these episodes he reads a full month of Marvel’s sci-fi comics based on books, TV, and movies! Titles, so far, include Human Fly, Star Wars, Godzilla, John Carter of Mars, …
With DC’s “Convergence” and Marvel’s “Secret Wars” bringing an end to both the New 52 and Marvel NOW!, Daniel and Matt give their Top 5 picks for the best comic book series to come out of these two eras in comic book history. After hearing their picks, let us know …
Daniel reads through and discusses Star Trek: Harlan Ellison’s The City on the Edge of Forever The Original Teleplay. Daniel confesses his history with Star Trek and the story itself. He compares the comic adaptation with the original Star Trek episode from 1967.
“Spider-Verse” is a Marvel event that began during the fall of 2014. In this event, every Spider-Man from the entire Marvel Multiverse will be featured during the course of the story. “Spider-Verse” officially kicked off with The Amazing Spider-Man #9 in November of 2014. In this two-part podcast series, Matt is joined by …
Grant Morrison’s “The Multiversity” has been in the works for a long time. Was it worth the wait? Does it make any sense? What is this book trying to say? Most important: do we like it? Join Daniel, Matt, and Ben as they explore DC Comics’ multiverse in “The Multiversity!” …
Ben has been on a bionic kick lately, and a recent find at a local comic shop has helped scratch that itch. These classic comics from the 70’s tie-in to the television bionic phenomenon . . . but do they live up to the pop culture giants of the television shows? …
In this episode, we talk about comics we have wanted to read or have planned to read. And now that we WILL read. This is a list of 10 comic issues, series, or graphic novels that we want to read for pleasure, not for Comic Book Time Machine episodes. In …
It’s Superman vs. Spider-Man in a battle of the ages! or something along those lines. Ben’s #1 favorite superhero meets Matt’s #1 favorite superhero! What happens when Marvel and DC’s greatest creations meet? Do Lex Luthor and Dr. Octopus make for a good team-up? Does this giant-sized comic book live …
Daniel reviews the April 2015 Comic Bento Cloak and Dagger subscription box. Daniel discusses his thoughts on the four titles in the box; The Shadow Volume 1, The Coldest City, Hit List, and Unity Volume 1: To Kill a King. Daniel provides his thoughts on the Comic Bento program including pricing and value, comparasions to other programs, and …
Here’s the experiment: Ben wants to read through the classic Marvel licensed books that coincided with Star Wars, so during these episodes he reads a full month of Marvel’s sci-fi comics based on books, TV, and movies! Titles, so far, include Human Fly, Star Wars, Godzilla, John Carter of Mars, …
The three time travelers have each chosen different events from the past to read through in their entirety. These events are part of comic history, for good or for ill! Now, join Ben, Daniel, and Matt as they explore: Secret Wars II! Crisis on Infinite Earths! The Evolutionary War! Here …
Daniel dips into 1977’s Justice League of America #140 No Man Escapes the Manhunter, Mark Shaw’s second appearance and first real mission. Daniel discusses the story, the Manhunter’s greatest weapons, and Shaw’s first steps behind the mask. Daniel notices some comparisons with the New 52 and expresses concern with Shaw’s personality.
“Time Runs Out” is a Marvel event that started in September 2014. This event stars the Avengers, and is the next big part of the story that Jonathan Hickman has been telling in both “Avengers” and “New Avengers” since he took over those titles at the beginning of the Marvel …
“Time Runs Out” is a Marvel event that started in September 2014. This event stars the Avengers, and is the next big part of the story that Jonathan Hickman has been telling in both “Avengers” and “New Avengers” since he took over those titles at the beginning of the Marvel …
Ben experiments in this episode, reading a comic he was given by a comic shop: Marvel Super-heroes Megazine, which isa reprint comic featuring four stories. In the episode, Ben reads each of the four stories and records his thoughts immediately afterward, answering the questions: What did he think of it …
“Spider-Verse” is a Marvel event that began during the fall of 2014. In this event, every Spider-Man from the entire Marvel Multiverse will be featured during the course of the story. “Spider-Verse” officially kicked off with The Amazing Spider-Man #9 in November of 2014. In this two-part podcast series, Matt is …
“Spider-Verse” is a Marvel event that began during the fall of 2014. In this event, every Spider-Man from the entire Marvel Multiverse will be featured during the course of the story. In order to prepare for this huge spider-centric event, one of the Comic Book Time Machine hosts, Matt Anderson, will be …
Daniel examines Star Wars Dark Horse volume 2 issues #13 and #14 making up the “Five Days of Sith” story arc. Daniel breaks down the tale of an Imperial Ensign who served Darth Vader on a revenge mission throughout the Empire. Daniel discusses evil, rewards, and how Marvel and Dark …
“Time Runs Out” is a Marvel event that started in September 2014. This event stars the Avengers, and is the next big part of the story that Jonathan Hickman has been telling in both “Avengers” and “New Avengers” since he took over those titles at the beginning of the Marvel …
“Time Runs Out” is a Marvel event that started in September 2014. This event stars the Avengers, and is the next big part of the story that Jonathan Hickman has been telling in both “Avengers” and “New Avengers” since he took over those titles at the beginning of the Marvel …
Was Human Fly good this time around? Why is John Carter so terrifying? Is Star Wars on a downward spiral? And what about the Marvel Movie Special? In this episode… Introduction (0:00-7:30) Part 1 — Star Wars #5 (7:30-18:50) Part 2 — Godzilla: King of the Monsters #4 (18:50-31:15) Part 3 — The Human Fly …
Daniel finishes Manhunter’s first solo arc in Ostrander and Yale’s Manhunter #4, “Through the Mask.” Dumas and Manhunter battle for what may be the final time and Mark learns a massive secret about Olivia Vancroft. Daniel mulls over his thoughts on this first arc, masks in the Vancroft collection and …
All three of the hosts are together for this episode to discuss the first comic they ever remember getting. Write us to let us know what your first comic was : feedback@comicbooktimemachine.com The issues that will be discussed and spoiled in this episode include the following: …
On January 20, 2015, Marvel Executive Editor Tom Breevort and Editor-in-Chief Axel Alonso made a huge announcement about the future of the Marvel Universe. You may have already heard by now, but (SPOILERS) the entire Marvel Multiverse is about to be drastically changed forever. The Marvel 616 Universe (that …
Both Marvel and DC Comics are planning a multiverse-spanning event in 2015. At Marvel the event is called Secret Wars (starting May 2015) and at DC the event is called Convergence (starting April 2015). In this episode, Daniel and Matt discuss what might happen in each of these events, …
Marvel’s new Star Wars comic has started, and we read it! Luke, Han, Leia, Chewie, R2-D2, and C-3PO are together again for the first time! This is our shortest trip back in time! Was it worth it? Find out here!
“Futures End” is an event currently running in DC Comics. Set five years in the future, “Futures End” shows a potential future version of the New 52 universe which can only be avoided if an evil foe is stopped in the past. In this episode, Daniel and Matt discuss …
Grant Morrison’s “The Multiversity” has been in the works for a long time. Was it worth the wait? Does it make any sense? What is this book trying to say? Most important: do we like it? Join Daniel, Matt, and Ben as they explore DC Comics’ multiverse in “The Multiversity!” …
Ben talks about a comic series that hits three of his comic book reading loves: 1. The Ultraverse! 2. Steve Gerber! 3. Swamp Monsters! This episode, covering the first three issues of Malibu’s Ultraverse series SLUDGEm is part of a crossover with The Ultraverse Podcast — http://ultraversenetwork.com
Daniel and Matt talk with Abel Charrow; creator, writer and artist for the comic Teedy Roosevelt which reframed President Theodore Roosevelt as a time-traveler. The three discuss the story’s origin and evolution, Kickstarter and Abel’s comic book connection with one of the hosts. Time travelers can purchase a copy of …