The Alternate Reality: Recent Episodes
Alternate Reality Inc
A bI-weekly round table podcast on comics, movies, TV and other pop culture related foolishness. “The Alternate Reality” features the occasional guest and is powered by regular contributors including Larry Bocepheus" Evans, Rod Flash, “Comicbookman” Tim Davis and others. Got a question or topic you’d like to hear discussed on a later podcast?
The Terrific Trio of Comicbookman, Bocepheus, and Rod Flash discuss DC’s Year of the Villain event which has not yet set the comic’s world afire. Also discussed it the sister story: Event Leviathan.
Episode Run-time: 31:15
Episode 110: Disney’s Killing My Kids
The Terrific Trio of Comicbookman, Bocepheus, and Rod Flash discuss George Lucas’ problems with the Disney Corporation’s handling of the Star Wars franchise since its sale.
Episode Runtime: 31:15
The Terrific Trio of Comicbookman, Bocepheus, and Rod Flash discuss the movies that will be playing in theaters for the autumn of 2019.
Episode Runtime: 29:51
The Terrific Trio of Comicbookman, Bocepheus, and Rod Flash discuss the four shows debuting on TV this fall that are comic or Science Fiction related: Emergence (ABC), Stumptown (ABC), Batwoman (CW) and Watchmen (HBO).
Episode Runtime: 29:31
The Terrific Trio of Comicbookman, Bocepheus, and Rod Flash discuss the coming Wednesday Night Wrestling Wars between AEW and NXT as the two wrestling shows go up against each other on Wednesday Nights form 7:00pm to 9:00pm (cst).
Episode Runtime: 29:56
The Terrific Trio of Comicbookman, Bocepheus, and Rod Flash discuss the recent disillusion of the partnership between Sony Pictures and Walt Disney Pictures over the production of films featuring Marvel’s Spider-man.
Episode Runtime: 29:45
The Terrific Trio of Comicbookman, Bocepheus, and Rod Flash memorialize the life and career of wrestling legend “the King” Harley Race and comic artist Ernie Colon.
Episode Runtime: 29:53
Comicbookman, Rod Flash and Bocepheus look the Marvel Cinematic Universe’s Phase 4 slate of announced films and streaming productions.
Episode Runtime: 29:55
Comicbookman, Rod Flash and Bocepheus look the Fifth Age of Marvel’s X-Men as laid out by writer Jonathan Hickman in his books: House of X and Powers of X.
Episode Runtime: 30:26
Episode 102: What Killed Vertigo Comics?
Subtitle: We look at the caused of the Death of Vertigo Comics
Comicbookman and Bocepheus look the history of DC’s Vertigo Comics imprint and how that history may have led to the imprints death.
Episode Runtime: 29:07
Comicbookman, Bocepheus and Rod Flash look the superhero comic that is really A HORROR COMIC-the Immortal Hulk.
Episode Runtime: 30:00
Comicbookman and Bocepheus and Rod Flash look at the biggest thing in professional wrestling: AEW (All Elite Wrestling). From “All In” to “Double or Nothing” to TNT this Fall, they discuss it all.
Episode Runtime: 27:53
Comicbookman and Good Old JR look at the history of the Original Captain Marvel (aka “The Big Red Cheese”) looking at the lawsuits, movie serials, return to comics, tv series, Miracleman, movie and more. The various characters comic history is examined followed up with JR’s review of the film. You’ll find JR’s review of Shazam! at:
http://www.myalternatereality.com/EPOP/REVIEWS/2019/MOVIES2019/shazam.html
Episode Runtime: 50:24
Comicbookman and Good Old JR look at the history of Marvel’s Captain Marvel (or Mar-Vell) from the characters inception triggered by a lawsuit to the Brie Larson movie. The various Marvel comic book incarnations of the character are examined followed up with JR’s review of the film and it’s place in the MCE cannon. You’ll find JR’s review of Captain Marvel at:
http://www.myalternatereality.com/EPOP/REVIEWS/2019/MOVIES2019/captainmarvel.html
RORSCHACH TEST BONUS: Bo & Rod Flash do a run in with their RT on GODZILLA!
Episode Runtime: 57:44
Comicbookman hosts the Fantastic Foursome of Bocepheus, Rod Flash, Big Tuna Vito and Good Old JR as they make and discuss their picks for the 91st Annual Academy Awards (aka: the 2019 Oscars). This is the episode where they put their reputations on the line and pick the winners for Best Picture, Best Director, Best Actor, Best Actress and over a dozen more categories. After listening to this episode stop by our website and read more about Bo, JR’s and Vito Carli’s picks for this year’s Oscars. You’ll find it at:
http://www.myalternatereality.com/EPOP/REVIEWS/2019/MOVIES2019/2019academyawardpredictions.html
Episode Runtime: 1:01:57
Episode 96: TOP 10 Comic News Stories of 2018
Subtitle: Discussion of the Top 10 Comicbook News Stories for 2018
Tags: #podcast, #humor, #discussion, #news, #comics, #marvel, #alternate reality, #dc, #batman, #stan_lee, #bendis, #comicsgate, #ditko, #millarworld, #superman, #comicbookman, #bocepheus, #rod flash
The Terrific Trio of Comicbookman, Bocepheus, and Rod Flash discuss the TOP 10 Comicbook News stories for 2018. Among the stores discussed are: the death of Stan Lee, the death of Steve Ditko, Brian Bendis’ Superman, Black Label fallout, CB Cebulski takes over Marvel Comics, comicsgate, Mark Waid’s lawsuit and more.
Episode Run Time: 56:07
The Terrific Trio of Comicbookman, Bocepheus, and Rod Flash memorialize the life and career of Stanley Martin Lieber aka: Stan Lee. For the entire hour they remember Stan, his impact on not just Marvel but the entire comics industry and what his legacy may be.
Episode Runtime: 57:48
The Terrific Trio of Comicbookman, Bocepheus, and Rod Flash discuss dice and slice recent media and fight news in this all non-comic news episode. Stories include: Walking Dead without Jesus, the future of Rambo and Rocky, WWE buys up as much talent as they can, Kingsmen 3, All In 2 Update, Disney Streaming and the Marvel exodus from Netflix and more
PLUS! The RORSCHACH TEST: Movie Theaters
Episode Run Time: 58:14
The Terrific Trio of Comicbookman, Bocepheus, and Rod Flash discuss dice and slice recent comic book news in this all comic news episode. Stories include: The current status of DC’s Black Label line, Old Man Quill, Daredevils return, Avengers No Road Home, Betty & Veronica Senior Year, Action Comics #1005 fallout, Turok returns and more
PLUS! The RORSCHACH TEST: Walgreens
Episode Run Time: 59:51
The Terrific Trio of Comicbookman, Bocepheus, and Rod Flash discuss dice and slice recent wrestling, media, and comic news including: Ric Grayson, James Gunn on Suicide Squad, Kevin Owens on the shelf, the Goon moves to Albatross, Criminal returns to Image, Drowned Earth is only the start, Crown Jewel's fallout, Netflix dumps Luke Cage and Iron Fist and more
PLUS! The RORSCHACH TEST: pineapple pizza
Episode Run Time: 58:02
The Terrific Trio of Comicbookman, Bocepheus, and Rod Flash discuss James Bond, the character, the franchise, the phenomenon. The character’s history and possible futures are discussed, spotlighting the interpretations over the years by artists both in front and behind the camera!
Episode Runtime: 57:53
Episode 90: In The News-Mid October 2018
Subtitle: Discussion of Comic, Media, and Wrestling News Stories for Mid October 2018
The Terrific Trio of Comicbookman, Bocepheus, and Rod Flash discuss dice and slice recent wrestling, media, and comic news including: Batman the Damned delayed, Marvel’s 80th Anniversary, Buffy the Vampire Slayer moving to Boom, Humanoids superhero initiative, Star Wars TV on Disney Play, Lethal Weapon Season 3, Rey Mysterio returns to WWE, Fox Disney merger and more
PLUS! Good Old JR reviews the movie Venom
Episode Run Time: 59:54
The Terrific Trio of Comicbookman, Bocepheus, and Rod Flash discuss the new TV shows and upcoming movies all premiering in the Fall of 2018. This SUPER SIZED edition (it’s longer than usual) is Pumpkin Spiced with Autumnal media goodness for children of all ages!
Episode Runtime: 1:19:18
Episode 88: In The News-Mid September 2018
The Terrific Trio of Comicbookman, Bocepheus, and Rod Flash discuss dice and slice recent wrestling, media, and comic news including: Batman the Damned, Marvel’s aborted Vision mini-series, Freedom Fighter return to punch Nazi’s, Hit-Girl world-wide, Anthony Bourdin’s final recipes, Bond 25 has a director, Star Wars slows down, Caville Is still Superman, Randy Orton shakes the mayor’s hand, Fox’s X-Men at Disney and more
This episode’s RORSCHACH TEST: Steven Spielberg
Episode Runtime: 58:05
The Dynamic Duo of Comicbookman and Bocepheus memorialize three recent deaths from the world of comics. For the entire hour they remember the lives of: Comic book artist’s Russ Heath and Marie Severin and Comic writer Gary Friedrich.
Episode Runtime: 57:48
The Dynamic Duo of Comicbookman and Bocepheus discuss dice and slice recent wrestling, media, and comic news including All In round-up, Neville's official WWE release, is Batman an atheist? The death of Poseidon, Warren Ellis goes to Cemetary Beach, Doom Patrol cast for DC Universe Streaming, Doctor Who and Shield return, Vision gets a new mini-series and more.
This episode’s RORSCHACH TEST: Jim Cornette (with special guest Rod Flash)
Episode Runtime: 57:30
Episode 85: In The News-Early September 2018
The Terrific Trio of Comicbookman, Bocepheus, and Rod Flash discuss dice and slice recent wrestling, media, and comic news including Geoff Johns DC projects, Marvel Knights to celebrate its Anniversary with new specials and minis, Defenders return in one-shots, Stan Lee gatekeeper update, Bewitched to return to TV, Colt Cabana sues CM Punk, Rhonda Rousey future matches, Magic Order breaks sales records and more.
Episode Runtime: 59.52
The Terrific Trio of Comicbookman, Bocepheus, and Rod Flash discuss dice and slice recent wrestling, media, and comic news including: DC Bendis buyer’s remorse?, Saga taking a break, Greg Pak is busy, Marvel Knights anniversary, upcoming Batman comic projects, the Oscars reinvent themselves, Star Trek hell, Mad Max lawsuit, the future of AMC’s Walking Dead, James Gunn update, Cazz, the Hardy Boys coming up on the end and more.
PLUS! Good Old JR reviews the DEATH OF SUPERMAN DC Direct DVD
Episode Runtime: 59.36
Comicbookman is joined by the Dynamic Duo of Good Old JR and the Big Tuna as they pick their choices for the Top 10 films of 2018 by the halfway point in the year. From art-house films to mainstream Hollywood fare, over 20 total films are ranked, discussed and debated over.
Episode Runtime: 54:06
The Terrific Trio of Comicbookman, Bocepheus, and Rod Flash discuss the recent spate of toxic social media events which have had an impact on comic fandom. These events culminate in the firing of director James Gunn from the Guardians of the Galaxy movie franchise but also include Brian Bendis’ departure from Facebook, Tom King’s death threats after Batman #50 and more.
PLUS! Good Old JR reviews MISSION IMPOSSIBLE: FALLOUT
Episode Runtime: 59.30
The Terrific Trio of Comicbookman, Bocepheus, and Rod Flash discuss dice and slice the news that came out of this year’s San Diego ComicCon. Because of this, the news covered in this episode is predominantly media and comic related. Topics discussed include: Grant Morrison’s Green Lantern, Gail Simone taking over creative chores on Lion Forge’s Catalyst Universe, Future Hellboy projects, Chris Claremont returns to the X-Men, the New Doctor Who Jodie Whittaker, Miracleman returns to Marvel’s racks, all the DC shows on the upcoming season of the CW and much more.
This episode’s RORSCHACH TEST: Cheese Fries
Episode Runtime: 59.33
Episode 80: In Memoriam-Ditko, Ellison & Vader
Subtitle: Discussion of Steve Ditko, Harlan Ellison, and Leon White aka Vader
Tags: podcast,humor,discussion,harlan ellison,vader,steve ditko,outer limits,star trek,spider-man,doctor strange,bocepheus,rod flash,good old jr,comicbookman,alternate reality
The Terrific Trio of Comicbookman, Bocepheus, and Rod Flash memorialize three recent deaths, one in each of the three worlds of wrestling, movies, and comics. For the entire hour, they memorialize Comic book artist/writer Steve Ditko, science fiction and television writer Harlan Ellison, and former WWE wrestler Leon White aka Vader.
Episode Runtime: 59.47
Episode 79: In The News-Mid July 2018
The Terrific Trio of Comicbookman, Bocepheus, and Rod Flash discuss dice and slice recent wrestling, media, and comic news including Wonder Woman Creative Changes, Heroes in Crisis, Hart family feud, Archie #700, Zombieland 2 is coming, how not to cash a Black Lightning check, Brock Lesner: MMA or WWE?, Stan Lee gets a new guardian, Nick Spencer on Spiderman and more
PLUS! Good Old JR reviews ANTMAN AND THE WASP
Episode Runtime: 59.54
The Terrific Trio of Comicbookman, Bocepheus, and Rod Flash discuss recent Epic Fails in movies, on TV and in wrestling. Films from 2017 and 2018 are covered as are this past television season. Also discussed are some of the talent the WWE has mis-managed over the past year.
This episode’s RORSCHACH TEST: Marvel Legacy
Episode Runtime: 59.19
The Terrific Trio of Comicbookman, Bocepheus, and Rod Flash discuss remakes in movies and on TV. The recent Rosanne controversy triggered this episode’s discussion of television shows being remade and updated, films remaking television shows, TV shows remaking movies, American television remaking British television programs and more. Sequels and reimaginings are also discussed and it’s all topped off with an examination of Rosanne the series.
PLUS! Good Old JR reviews INCREDIBLES 2
Episode Runtime: 59.54
Episode 76: In The News-Early June 2018
The Terrific Trio of Comicbookman, Bocepheus, and Rod Flash discuss dice and slice recent wrestling, media, and comic news including Mike Netzer and Neal Adams battle over Ms.Marvel, Gotham Ending on Fox, Andrew Lincoln leaving Walking Dead, Stuart Immonen’s retirement, WWE Raw to USA and Smackdown to Fox, ESPN gets MMA, Doomsday Clock Delays, Clint Walker’s death and more.
This episode’s RORSCHACH TEST: the lottery
Episode Runtime: 57.22
Episode 75: Economics of Diversity in Comics
Subtitle: Discussion of diversity and it’s backlash in comics
The Terrific Trio of Comicbookman, Bocepheus, and Rod Flash discuss diversity in comics and the economic and social backlash that has been playing itself out on media and at the register over the last few years. Also discussed is the best way for creators to get their small press, independent comic into a comic store.
PLUS! Good Old JR reviews SOLO: A STAR WARS STORY
Episode Runtime: 59.37
The Terrific Trio of Comicbookman, Bocepheus, and Rod Flash discuss dice and slice recent wrestling, media, and comic news. Brian Bendis’ Man of Steel and beyond, Chaykin’s new book tells tales of the industry, DC Streaming is coming, Smackdown is going to Fox, Marvel Phase 4 prognostications, the return of the Ultimate Universe and more.
PLUS! Beginning with this episode, Good Old JR checks in with his review of a movie currently on screens. In this inaugural episode (for him) he reviews Marvel's AVENGERS INFINITY WAR
Episode Runtime: 57.30
This episode is intended to be not only a discussion of the Walking Dead but also a continuation of “Episode #54: Image at 25“. The Terrific Trio of Comicbookman, Bocepheus, and Rod Flash discuss The Walking Dead both the comic and the TV series. Topics discussed include creative bookkeeping in television, the “Carl Problem” and its resolution; Fear the Walking Dead and its soft reboot this season, Negan fatigue, revolving showrunners, Skybound Entertainment and more.
Episode Runtime: 56:02
Episode 72: In The News-Early May 2018
Subtitle: Discussion of Comic, Media & Wrestling News Stories for Early May 2018
Tags: podcast, humor, discussion, news, marvel, dc, wrestling,Alison mack,astro city,alberto del rio,avengers,dr.who,christopher eccleston
The Terrific Trio of Comicbookman, Bocepheus, and Rod Flash discuss dice and slice recent wrestling, media, and comic news. Astro City shifting to graphic novels, Avengers No Surrender wrap up, DC creative changes, Chris Eggleston on why he left Dr.Who, Alison Mack arrest follies, Lesner’s new WWE contract, Alberto del Rio fired from Impact and more
Episode Runtime: 57.06
This episode’s RORSCHACH TEST: Sean Connery
The Terrific Trio of Comicbookman, Bocepheus, and Rod Flash discuss dice and slice recent wrestling, media and comic news. DC’s Hannah Barbara fifth week event for May, Fantastic For return to the Marvel Universe, Justice League find No Justice, Bond 25 and Akira both get directors, X-Men Dark Phoenix and New Mutants both delayed, Connor McGregor loses it, Cody Rhodes and the Young Bucks are “All In” in Chicago and more
Episode Runtime: 54.19
This episode’s RORSCHACH TEST: Han Solo
The Terrific Trio of Comicbookman, Bocepheus, and Rod Flash discuss C2E2 2018 and Chicago area comic book conventions. The history of Chicago’s comic convention scene is discussed as well as its current state.
Episode Runtime: 57:38
This episode’s RORSCHACH TEST: Zombie Apocalypse
The Terrific Trio of Comicbookman, Bocepheus, and Rod Flash discuss dice and slice recent wrestling, media and comic news. Roman Reigns drug allegations, Daniel Bryant returns to the ring, Bray Wyatt repackaged, Justice League re-tooled, Mike Fleisher remembered, Frank Millers signs with DC, Anna DeVernay on New Gods, Jon Favreau does Star Wars TV, Avengers Infinity War update and more.
Episode Runtime: 54:30
This episode’s RORSCHACH TEST: Devil Dinosaur & Moon Girl
The Terrific Trio of Comicbookman, Bocepheus and Rod Flash discuss and predict the card for WrestleMania 34 to be held in New Orleans.
Episode Runtime: 58:12
This episode’s RORSCHACH TEST: the Blue Beetle
Episode 67: In The News-Mid March 2018
Subtitle: Discussion of Comic, Media & Wrestling News Stories for Mid March 2018
Tags: podcast, humor, discussion, news, marvel, dc, jinxworld, sandman, agents of shield, cm punk, wwe, fox, black crown, black label
The Terrific Trio of Comicbookman, Bocepheus, and Rod Flash discuss dice and slice recent wrestling, media, and comic news. WWE may move to Fox, DC’s Black Label and Sandman imprints, IDW’s Black Crown, CM Punk gets one more fight, Agents of Shield possible ending and more.
Episode Runtime: 59:19
This episode’s RORSCHACH TEST: Toys R Us
The Terrific Trio of Comicbookman, Bocepheus, and Rod Flash discuss the Black Panther movie from Marvel and the Black Lightning television series on the CW and more. African American representation in comics, tv and fill are all discussed as well as the “Killmonger was right” meme, Milestone comics and more.
Episode Runtime: 58.58
This episode’s RORSCHACH TEST: IDW Publishing
The Fantastic Foursome of Comicbookman and Bocepheus Rod Flash and Good Old JR dice and slice recent wrestling, media and comic news. DC’s new Kids Line, Marvel gets Fresh, the Image Expo,
Daredevil Season 3 on Netflix, James Cameron back on Terminator, Joss Whedon off of Batgirl, WWE cuts back on PPV events and more.
Episode Runtime: 58.34
This episode’s RORSCHACH TEST: Erik Killmonger
The Fantastic Foursome of Comicbookman, Bocepheus, Rod Flash and Good Old JR discuss their picks for the 90th Annual Academy Awards (aka: the 2018 Oscars). This is the episode where they put their reputations on the line and pick the winners for Best Picture, Best Director, Best Actor, Best Actress and over a dozen more categories.
After listening to this episode stop by our website and read more about Bo, JR’s and Vito Carli’s picks for this year’s Oscars. You’ll find it at:
http://www.myalternatereality.com/EPOP/REVIEWS/2018/MOVIES2018/2018academyawardpredictions.html
Episode Runtime: 59.45
This episode’s RORSCHACH TEST: Jerry Lewis
The Dynamic Duo of Comicbookman and Bocepheus Flash dice and slice recent wrestling, media and comic news. Bendis reimagines Superman, Wolverine returns update, Champions creative team changes, Dick Tracy fails at Dynamite, Valiant sold, Walking Dead lawsuits, Rhonda Rousey joins WWE, Booker T/Graves feud and more.
Episode Runtime: 58.59
This episode’s RORSCHACH TEST: Former Chicago Mayor Michael Bilandic
The Terrific Trio of Comicbookman, Bocepheus & Rod Flash tear apart the nominees in nine of this year’s Oscar categories. Best Picture, Best Actor/Actress, Best Supporting Actor/Actress and others are discussed as well as films or individuals they think were snubbed by this year’s Oscars-like Rod’s favorite Wonder Woman.
Episode Runtime: 57:18
The Terrific Trio of Comicbookman, Bocepheus & Rod Flash dice and slice recent wrestling, media and comic news. DC breaks down the walls between universes, Starlin’s feud with Marvel Comics, Action #1000 update, Dan Slott on Iron Man, Enzo Amore firing, Raw 25, the return of the XFL, Brian Singer exits the X-Universe and more.
This episode’s RORSCHACH TEST: the McDLT
Episode Runtime: 57:24
The Dynamic Duo of Comicbookman & Bocepheus are joined by Rod Flash and together they dice and slice recent wrestling, media and comic news. Conan returns to Marvel, end of the X-Files, Marvel creative changes, Warner’s restructures their movie division, WWE’s all woman Royal Rumble, Paige’s career may be over and more.
This episode’s RORSCHACH TEST: evolution
Episode Runtime: 56:34
The Dynamic Duo of Comicbookman & Bocepheus are joined by Rod Flash and Good Old JR and together they dice and slice recent wrestling, media and comic news. Vince McMahon wants to restart the XFL, Dean Ambrose on the shelf, Quentin Tarantino on Star Trek, Force Awakens Fan Division, Marvel’s Christmas Massacre and more.
This episode’s RORSCHACH TEST: James Tiberius Kirk
Episode Runtime: 59:40
The Dynamic Duo of Comicbookman & Bocepheus are joined by Rod Flash and special guest reviewer Good Old JR to pick their choices for the Top 10 films of 2017. From art-house picks to mainstream Hollywood, over 25 different films are ranked, discussed and argued over.
Episode Runtime: 57:53
The Dynamic Duo of Comicbookman & Bocepheus are joined by Rod Flash and together they dice and slice recent wrestling, media and comic news. The Disney purchase of 21st Century Fox, Walking Dead and Gotham Mid-Season finales, Free Comicbook Day 2018 Gold titles, Brian Michael Bendis on the mend, Hideo Itami coming to 205 Live and more.
This episode’s RORSCHACH TEST: Oliver Queen
Episode Runtime: 55:05
The Dynamic Duo of Comicbookman & Bocepheus perform an autopsy on Netflix’s Punisher and the Justice League movie. Plot points (spoilers!), impact, reaction and their views of each project are discussed in depth. Also the ramification and futures of each franchise are also covered.
This episode’s RORSCHACH TEST: The Ultimate Universe
Episode Runtime: 57:15
The Dynamic Duo of Comicbookman & Bocepheus dice and slice recent wrestling, media and comic news. C. B. Cebulski takes over at Marvel Comics, Brian Bendis moves to DC, Cancelled Comics Cavalcade, Age of Heroes delayed, WWE is looking for writers, Lucha Underground, Broken Hardy returns, Jeff Jarrett rehab update, Avengers Infinity War trailer, Punisher Netflix and Justice League movie aftermath’s and more.
This episode’s RORSCHACH TEST: Dynamite Comics
Episode Runtime: 57:18
The Dynamic Duo of Comicbookman & Bocepheus are joined by Rod Flash to roll back the clock and look at Image Comics in recognition of their 25th Anniversary this year. From the departure of the original Image 7 from Marvel to today’s Image Central, the Promise of Image over the last 25 years is examined in detail. Plus Comicbookman apologizes to Dawn Brown!
This episode’s RORSCHACH TEST: Cook County Soda Tax
Episode Runtime: 57:24
The Dynamic Duo of Comicbookman & Bocepheus are joined by Rod Flash to dice and slice recent wrestling, media and comic news. The return of the Milestone Universe, Shazam casting, CW Riverdale expansion, Channel 20 and Classic Dr.Who, WWE Cuts, Jeff Jarrett substance problems, who walks with Elias, GFW and Impact split and more.
This episode’s RORSCHACH TEST: Pumpkin Spice
The Dynamic Duo of Comicbookman & Bocepheus are joined by Rod Flash to dice and slice recent wrestling, media and comic news. Stories covered include the rise of Enzo and the exit of Neville, Nia Jax mysterious disappearance, mumps in the locker room, Sister Abigail, Impact cross promoting with MMA, Black Panther trailer, Justice League gets counter programming from Marvel, Snowman, Geostorm and the pre-holiday blues, Marvel Legacy vs DC Rebirth reception, Chuck Dixon and the Alt-Right, the Bane mini-series and more.
This episode’s RORSCHACH TEST: Eric Bishoff
The Dynamic Duo of Comicbookman & Bocepheus get in the autumn spirit with a pumpkin spiced look at the CW’s new fall TV season. Flash, Supergirl, Arrow and Legends are all discussed. Other Topics include the new JLA trailer, Inhuman's, the Orville, Star Trek Discovery, Gotham and more.
This episode’s RORSCHACH TEST: Hulu
The Dynamic Duo of Comicbookman & Bocepheus look at the DC and Marvel comic news that came out of this year’s NYCC. Topics discussed include the Marvel Retailer Conference uproar, diversity, Marvel Legacy, weekly Avengers, DC’s Doomsday Clock, Vertigo Rebirth and of course: Bo’s upcoming (at this time) Las Vegas vacation.
This episode’s RORSCHACH TEST: White Castle's
The Dynamic Duo of Comicbookman & Bocepheus return and they are joined by newcomer Rod Flash. Rod has a “special set of skills” in that he is a veteran musician as well as a former “comicbookman”. Rod’s musical and comic background is discussed and used as the springboard into a larger discussion of music and comics. Topics include: the Disco Dazzler, Kiss, the Beatles, Sid & Marty Kroft, Four Color Comics, Prog music, Alice Cooper and more.
This week’s RORSCHACH TEST: Disney
The Film Fanatic Foursome plus Jason Nisavic re-assemble to chew over some of the Summer 2017 films. Films discussed include Dunkirk, Wonder Woman, Guardians of the Galaxy 2 plus the JLA San Diego Comicon Trailer and more.
This episode’s SAD or LUXURIOUS: American Idol
The Fearless Foursome plus Jason Nisavic re-convene for the first time in months to catch up (get it?) on what they have been doing on their summer vacation. Summer reading comic picks are discussed as well as: Vin Diesel, first convention memories, Funko Pops, Rick and Morty, DC’s Young Animal line, Peter Parker, Mighty Mouse, GI Joe, female Doctor Who, Star Trek Discovery, streaming music and streaming TV and product placement in movies. That’s a lot of Ketchup.
This episode’s SAD or LUXURIOUS: taco bell
The Dynamic Duo of Comicbookman & Bocepheus return with a look at some of the news that broke in the latter half of July 2017. Topics covered include: the WWE’s Mae Young Classic, the Black Panther movie, Marvel’s New 53, the passing of Martin Landau and George Romero, the John Cena PSA Emmy nomination, Batman Dark Prince Charming and more.
This week’s RORSCHACH TEST: Netflix and actor Gary Busey
Trapped in Fox development Hell, the Fantastic Foursome are MIA so Comicbookman Prime teams up with his fellow CBMK Bocepheus for a discussion of Marvel/Disney’s latest film Spider-man Homecoming. Topics also discussed include: an overview of the previous five Spider-man films, could Adam West have been DC’s Stan Lee and fish
This week’s episode introduces THE RORSCHACH TEST, dare you take it?
The Force Filled Foursome assemble for an episode devoted to the phenomenon of Star Wars. From it’s premiere 40 years ago as George Lucas’ homage to Flash Gordon to the Christmas Special to the second trilogy to the Disney entertainment juggernaut it is today. Topics also discussed include: Lancelot Link, Starlog, Tim Burton’s Batman and more.
This week’s SAD or LUXURIOUS: the Lightsaber
The Flummoxed Foursome assemble for episode devoted to the 2017 edition of the C2E2 Comic Convention held at McCormick Place in Chicago. Topics discussed include panels, cosplay, kids comics and more.
This week’s SAD or LUXURIOUS: Cosplay
The Fabled Foursome plus Adrian Anderson are joined by Bradford Barth for an episode devoted to Gaming. Video Games, Role Playing Games (RPG’S), Collectable Miniature Games (CMG’s) and of course Collectable Card Games (CCG’s) are all discussed in a freewheeling discussion on all things gaming. Topics discussed include gamer etiquette, trying to keep Magic fun, the evolution of gaming from the late sixties to today and more.
This week’s SAD or LUXURIOUS: Freemium Games
The Flyin’ Foursome are joined again by Adrian Anderson for an episode devoted to Wrestlemania 33 and pro wrestling in general. They go up and down the card discussing each match and its ramifications for western civilization. Also discussed is the X-Men Gold #1 dust up and a brief look back at Halloween.
This week’s SAD or LUXURIOUS: Flip Flop sandals
The Fightin’ Foursome are joined by Adrian Anderson for an episode devoted to Professional Wrestling. WWE, TNA, ROH and more are discussed as each reveals their favorite wrestlers and favorite wrestling moments. Also discussed is Rachel Maddow and the President Trump Tax Return.
This week’s SAD or LUXURIOUS: Horoscopes
The Fitful Foursome are joined by Adrian Anderson for an episode devoted to the movie Logan. Hugh Jackman and Patrick Stewart’s long run as Logan and Professor Xavier are examined as are the overall merits of the X-Men films. Also discussed is the career and passing of Bernie Wrightson.
This week’s SAD or LUXURIOUS: Awards Shows
The Flippant Foursome are joined by Adam Ebert for an episode devoted to web comics and the changing face of comic distribution. The pro’s and con’s of both print and web comic are weighed with attention to the path from creation to distribution.
This week’s SAD or LUXURIOUS: DC’s “main man” Lobo
A super sized show as the Fearsome Foursome are joined by Jason Nisavic and Adrian Anderson for a manga/anime episode. Contrasts and comparisons to western comics are explored with an examination of titles from Dragonball to One Piece to Sword Art to Attack of the Titans.
This week’s SAD or LUXURIOUS: Mortal Combat the Movie
The Fame-struck Foursome are joined by Adam Ebert to handicap the 2017 Oscars. From Best Documentary to Best Picture this years Oscar picks are sliced and diced, pressed into paddies and served up to you piping hot!
This week’s SAD or LUXURIOUS: Rappers as actors
The Flea-bitten Foursome return to discuss the place of animals in comics and real life and where their depictions intersect and diverge from each another. The conversation stretches from real animals in comics and media (Beasts of Burden, Pride of Bagdad) to the anthropomorphic (Elephantmen, Bugs Bunny) and a dozen or so metaphorical examples in-between.
This week’s SAD or LUXURIOUS: Cats
The Famished Foursome each pick three of their favorite comics of 2016, twelve books in all are covered touching on a wide spectrum of titles and tastes.
The Farcical Foursome return from the holiday break to talk about their New Years Resolutions. Then they discuss the state of the comics industry and the distribution system as it currently exists today.
This week’s SAD or LUXURIOUS: Frozen Yogurt Shops
The Frenetic Foursome are joined by Jason and Dan to discuss Marvel’s Doctor Strange movie. What worked, what didn’t and what the overall consensus is. They also spend more than a few minutes discussing recent comic trailers for upcoming films.
This week’s SAD or LUXURIOUS: Multiple trailers for one film
The Festive Foursome are joined by Jason and Dan to discuss holiday shopping in general and gift ideas for the comic book fan specifically. They also go around the table and reveal what’s on their own Christmas Wish Lists.
This week’s SAD or LUXURIOUS: Black Friday Shopping
The Fractious Foursome picks up directly from Episode #27 and discusses the perils of African American role models in comics. Representation of different races presents a variety of role modeling problems for different audiences. Lack of diversity in role model representation is also problematic for many audiences. Representation has evolved in media over the last few decades but has it diversified enough?
(EDITORS NOTE: This episode was taped in late October 2016 before the Presidential election and the Mount Greenwood road rage shooting)
This week’s SAD or LUXURIOUS: Ken Bone (who? See how quickly we forget!)
When does your perception of an artists work become affected by what is revealed about the artist’s personal life? Does the art stand on it’s own regardless of the artist or is the work colored by what you know about the creators personal life. How much has social media accelerated that process and polarized opinions? Is the accessibility people have to creators today via social media a positive or a negative? Picasso, Bill Cosby, Woody Allen, Ted Nugent and others are discussed as are a variety of comic’s professionals.
This week’s SAD or LUXURIOUS: The movie trailer for the film Logan
They did it, they went and broke the podcast! The Fresh Foursome return to “The Alternate Reality” with no topic, no agenda, no plan and no decent ideas to spin a fresh (there’s that word again) show into. What to do for an hour? Why a whole episode of “Sad or Luxurious” what else. We promised you last week that we’d make up for skipping last weeks “S/L” bookend for Episode 27 and here it is…WHAT A REALLY GREAT IDEA!
After a few weeks off the Federally Insured Foursome return to the Alternate Reality to discuss comparisons of the Marvel Movie Universe the McDonalds menu (Breakfast all day!). Was all the Phase One creativity been blanded out in Phase Two? Is Guardians of the Galaxy an exception or just more of the same? Where does Netflix creatively fit into what’s being done in the movies? What about SHIELD? We examine all of this with an emphasis on what worked and didn’t in Luke Cage (beware story SPOILERS).
This week’s SAD or LUXURIOUS: none this week-it was totally skipped (we’ll be making up for the oversight in a future show-REALLY!)
After a few weeks off (ahem-two months!) the Faultless Foursome return to the Alternate Reality to discuss recent comic releases. Topics discussed include: Civil War and rolling out books taking place in post CW continuity months before the event actually ends, Champions #1, DC’s Flintstones, Black Mask Comic’s Black, Archie Comic’s world building exercise, Cave Carson, Shade the Changing Girl and the Young Animals line of books and magic based comics and more.
This week’s SAD or LUXURIOUS: Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles
It’s a packed house as the Frowny Foursome are joined by Dan, Jason and Adam to discuss only one topic: Suicide Squad the movie. That’s right it’s movie bitch fest time again as we look at the latest entry in Warner Bothers growing DC Movie Universe. What worked, what didn’t, who was thrilled and who got ill are all thrown onto the table for discussion.
This week’s SAD or LUXURIOUS: Coffee
The Fourfold Foursome (that’s an oxymoron-isn’t it?) assemble to discuss two, count’em TWO topics in one show. Fist up is the influence of the digital realm on comics. Will on line comics save the medium or destroy it? After that they move onto writing tropes in comics. Parental deaths to the destruction of the universe and a few others in between are all examined.
Topics Discussed Include: Digital comics and the inherent battle they are having with print, the DC Hanna Barbera Universe, writing tropes including dead parents, women or minorities being killed to throw more focus on the leads, Christian Laettner, parental deaths in a characters origin, bullying in a characters origin and more.
This week’s SAD or LUXURIOUS: The Lucas Museum (if it had been approved)
The Formidable Foursome assemble to discuss Pokemon fever! Actually they just start off with the craze that’s sweeping the nation and then transition into television writing. Specifically, why the writing on CW shows doesn’t keep pace with either the acting or the production values.
Topics Discussed Include: The inherent problems with CW writers, Justice League Doom animated special, shows that deviate from their source material, writing being the make or break aspect of a genre show, SYFY Network, Breaking Bad, Walking Dead, demographics for a particular show, despicable characters make popular shows, Pride and Prejudice card game, clichés as characterization.
This week’s SAD or LUXURIOUS: Director’s Cut
The Friendly Foursome are joined by a plethora of new and returning guests for their biggest assemblage to date. It's a rip roaring discussion Of DC’s animated feature “The Killing Joke” less than an hour after they all attended the big screen Fathom event showing. They assemble for this very special episode to discuss the screening as well as the DC Entertainment trailers that dropped at this years San Diego Comicon. Is it any good? Does it stand up to the original book? There’s only one way you’ll find out….. oh, and a great big SPOILER WARNING-many of the plot points of the animated feature are discussed in detail.
Topics Discussed Include: Justice League sizzle reel, the Wonder Woman trailer, the Suicide Squad trailer’s, the Doctor Strange trailer, Batman as mentor to his protégés, the apparent change in tone of the DC movie universe, the Killing Joke in the classroom.
This week’s SAD or LUXURIOUS: Twinkies
The Fundamental Foursome are joined by returning guests Adam and Bozena and they discuss gatekeepers in fandom. What’s a Gatekeeper? Someone with arcane knowledge of some subject which others of a similar interest desire. If you’ve ever been to a movie before the rest of your friends and they seek you out for the hidden knowledge of that film-then you’ve been a Gatekeeper. This translates across all aspects of fandom and can be either “sad or luxurious” depending on how the Gatekeeper chooses to wield that knowledge. A Gatekeeper can either let you in or keep you out, so beware abusive Gatekeepers!
Topics Discussed Include: Abusive fandom, how not to ask for a job at a comic book store, comic shops as “sanctuaries”, the changing nature of comic book acceptance, proving your Gatekeeper cred, the internet breeding false superiority and mis-information, diversity pandering, how the internet has changed the talent/fan dynamic, fans being more accepting of other fan disciplines and more.
This week’s SAD or LUXURIOUS: Kilts
The Fraudulent Foursome (as in Adan does a run in at the very end-but he’s there!) are joined by returning guest Adam and first time guest Bozena and they discuss movies. New movies, old movies, important movies, trash movies all kinds of movies. The transient nature of: “flavor of the month” actors are discussed. Bozena recently finished a “365 Movies in 365 Days” marathon and her experiences in film are discussed at length. How streaming services (Netflix, Hulu, Crackle, etc) have expanded the movie going experiences and made small films accessible to wider audiences.
Movies Discussed Include: ID2, The Shallows, Swiss Army Man, Marvel’s Civil War, Right Stuff, Jaws, Reno 911, Montage of Heck, Resurrection of Jake the Snake Roberts, Dear Zachary, Moviebob, X-Men Days of Future Past, Spawn the Movie, Empire Records, John Carter, It’s a Wonderful Life, Citizen Kane, Psycho, Hitchock Films, Pulp Fiction, Coming to America, Powerless
This week’s SAD or LUXURIOUS: Living in Marvel’s New York City.
The Terrific Trio (minus Adan again) are again joined by guest Jason. This week the collaborative process in art, performance art and the impact of social media on art and criticism is kicked around. What is the difference between commercial art and fine art and what is the the position of the critic in evaluating them. The push/pull between the artists expression of self, the compromise to the patron and the examination of the critic. The critics job to determine the purpose of art in society and whether the artist achieves that purpose. And at least one fart joke.
Topics Discussed Include: Nutella, Andy Kaufman, Tomboy, Frank Miller, George RR Martin, Game of Thrones, the fault in our pronouns, Vertigo Comics, Chris Claremont, All Star Superman, Superman American Alien, Batman No Mans Land, Rob Liefeld
This week’s SAD or LUXURIOUS: Everyone being a critic on social media
The Terrific Trio (minus Adan) are joined by guest Jason. Teaching history and political concepts through comics. Comics response to 9/11 and other at the time current events that are now history. Creator’s political points of view matriculate into
their work whether they want them to or not. Light touches as opposed to heavy touches in storytelling. Captain America in the 1950’s and how he was brought back in the 70’s to make a political statement. Richard Nixon and the Secret Empire and how that was a Watergate parallel at the time. Spiderman as a role model for the archetypical “good neighbor. “Muties” as metaphorical social commentary. Was Superman vs Muhammad Ali-social commentary or just a gimmick? Steve Rogers as a terrorist, Sam Wilson saving illegal immigrants and the evolving face of Captain America.
The Fiery Foursome welcome guests Justin and Jay (both parents) to a discussion of the best ways and types of comics to introduce your kids to. The impact nerd culture has had and how that has made comics more universally acceptable over the years. The importance of exposing kids to fantasy in general but letting them come to specific characters or concepts on their own. Near the end we’re joined by Jay’s daughter Clara who schools the group on her world of fantasy.
Topics Discussed Include: boys toys vs girls toys, nerd/geek stereotypes, X-Men as outsiders, Smallville, Harry Potter, Supergirl, male/female archetypes in kids literature and marketing.
This week’s SAD or LUXURIOUS: Long car trips (six hours or over)
The Fevered Foursome with guest Adrian meet to talk about movie remakes and negative internet reaction with emphasis on the two upcoming films: the all female remake of Ghostbusters and Star Trek Beyond. Are remakes a good idea or just a artistically bankrupt cash grab by Hollywood? We also spend a few minutes reminiscing on the passing of artist Darwyn Cooke who died on May 16th .
Topics Discussed Include: F-Troop, Dwayne Johnson, the EPA, Star Trek Prelude to Axanar, Isis (the female hero)
This week’s SAD or LUXURIOUS: Comic book continuations of movies/TV series.
When the book is closed on 2016, the week of June 1st will be a pivotal one. The Rebirth of the DC Universe in DC Rebirth #1, the revelations about Steve Rogers in Captain America #1 and the theatrical release of X-Men Apocalypse all happened this week. The flamboyant foursome assemble to discuss all three events of the week as only they can.
Topics Discussed include: deep fried water, mayonnaise sandwiches and cucumber milkshakes.
This week’s SAD or LUXURIOUS: Two, count’em TWO topics. Hot Topic (the mall store) and actress Jennifer Lawrence.
So, you take your Aunt Sally to see Captain America Civil War and it quickly turns into an exercise on catching her up on a decade of movie continuity. You go to see Batman v Superman and want to get back into reading comics but where to begin? .In this episode the Fashionable Foursome are joined by special guest (and returning comic reader) Adrian as they examine the good and bad sides of the current comic boom. Will that success be sustainable or is it painting itself into a corner of eventual collapse. How to sustain that success while it’s here or is today’s comic publicity boom destined to become the boom of the late 80’s-early 90’s.
Topics Discussed include: audio books, the heavy responsibility of being “the comic book guy” in a group, walking dead and new comic readers, preacher on AMC, comic book movie fatigue, Chris Evans as Tyler, dead Hollywood formats, Civil War woes, over complicated continuity alienates viewers or readers “outside of the church”, Geoff Johns promotion in the DC Movie Universe, Christopher Nolan Batman trilogy, comic adaptations of movies and TV series, Marvels Star Wars comics, Batman/TMNT and the slow sales boil, the decline of cross over books, Lumber Janes/Gotham Academy cross over, Boom, Black Mask and Image as excellent portals for finding accessible non superhero comic reading.
This week’s SAD or LUXURIOUS: The Mall.
Comic conventions are the theme of this weeks episode which is broken into two inter-related parts. In Part One the Fascinating Foursome assembles at the store after C2E2 2016 to discuss that years show and comic conventions in general. In Part Two the boys are on the road at C2E2 interviewing attendees about the show and related topics.
Discussed in Part One: The evolution of the Chicago Comic-Con to WizardWorld and the arrival of C2E2, the legal fight over the name: “comic-con”, family and mash up cosplay, the reasons Alternate Reality doesn’t do cons, C2E2 2016 memories, the hell of Retailer Discussion Panels, autographs, brushes with greatness with south-siders who made good, Andre Braugher meets CBM, CM Punk, Chasing Amy, Black Panther, San Diego Comi-Con, panel discussions, Funko Pops and more.
Discussed in Part Two: design, manga, women’s fashion in comics, cosplay, action figures, women in comics, women in action figures and more.
This week’s SAD or LUXURIOUS: Waiting in Line
We all find characters we like whether on TV, the Silver Screen or in comics. After a while we expect those characters to grow but the hard part is how much growth and how fast. If a character grows too much a sense of alienation sets in, too little and we quickly outgrow the character. In this episode the Fulsome Foursome assembles at full strength to take a look at what makes a good character in fiction.
Topics Discussed Include: Night Manager, Ray Donovan, Superman American Alien, Secret Identities, the Odd Couple, Big Bang Theory, Spiderman, the Office, the illusion of change, growth vs stagnation vs capitalism and a special appearance by actor Steve Buscemi.
This week’s SAD or LUXURIOUS: Alter Ego