2013 was a huge year in the comic book industry with events that were big among not only fans, but national news in a few cases. Here’s a rundown of everything that happened as well as some of the big events to look forward to in 2014.
2013 in Review
New Series and Cancellations:
2013 saw a plethora of new series on all fronts. The most impressive collection of titles was without a doubt Image, with series from acclaimed creators like Rick Remender (Black Science), Kelly Sue DeConnick (Pretty Deadly), Matt Fraction (Sex Criminals, Satellite Sam) and Ed Brubaker (Velvet). While Marvel and DC both had impressive title launches, such as “Guardians of the Galaxy” (Marvel), “Superior Spider-Man” (Marvel), “Justice League of America” (DC), and “Superman Unchained” (DC).
Of course with these new series launching, there were those that either never got off the ground or ended, including “Fearless Defenders” (Marvel), “Avengers Arena” (Marvel), “Dial H” (DC), “Legion of Super-Heroes” (DC), and “Justice League of America’s Vibe” (DC). The disappointing part of many of these cancellations is that many of these books are fringe titles that never found an audience. At least we can applaud these companies for trying them out.
Controversies:
2013 wasn’t without its share of controversies. Most of them were creative team departures from DC, most notably James Robinson, J.H. Williams III and W. Haden Blackman. While Robinson’s departure from DC wasn’t that controversial, Williams and Blackman’s departure from “Batwoman” struck the nation. While the duo cited creative differences as their reason, one of those specific reasons was that DC would not allow Batwoman to marry her fiancée. It wasn’t the big reason the duo left, but it was without a doubt picked up by the national media and remains a touchy subject among fans.
iTunes’s comic download service was also the subject of controversy. Its policies that filter out explicit content have blocked certain issues of series and entire series. The first incident involved a few panels of “Saga” #12. The resulting backlash was so strong that many actively cried out over the Internet and avoiding the service. In a recent incident, the service no longer carries digital issues for the series “Sex” and “Sex Criminals.”
Deaths:
Comic book deaths are a dime a dozen and have largely lost their impact since characters constantly get resurrected. That being said, 2013 had some huge deaths in the pages. The biggest was the death of Damian Wayne, a.k.a. Robin in Grant Morrison’s “Batman Incorporated.” Not only did it come as a surprise, but it was spoiled the Monday before the issue hit the shelves, causing a massive fan backlash along with the heartbreak of losing a fan favorite. Marvel also took a beating with Rogue, Scarlet Witch and Wonder Man all dying in the same issue of “Uncanny Avengers.” While the outcome remains to be seen, so it’s very possible any one of them could come back soon.
The industry also lost some iconic figures this year. In April, iconic Silver Age artist Carmine Infantino passed away. His credits include “Showcase” #4, which is the first appearance of Barry Allen, which marked the beginning of the Silver Age, in addition to many others. Nick Cardy, another artist from the Silver Age. His credits include runs of Aquaman and Teen Titans.
What to Expect in 2014:
All-New Marvel Now!:
At New York Comic Con, Marvel announced All-New Marvel Now!, which promises a large amount of new series ranging from “Black Widow” to “Moon Knight” to “Silver Surfer.” The company also will rebrand jumping on points for current series with a .NOW behind the numbering and a big #1 on the cover. It’s something for new readers and current fans to get excited about.
The End of “Forever Evil,” The New 52 Phase 2 and Weekly Series from DC:
Geoff Johns has promised that the end of the event maxiseries “Forever Evil” would bring about a new status quo for The New 52, and it promises to deliver. The series ends in March and with the April solicitations expected to be announced in January, it’s time to get excited for them. Rumors suggest a new Young Justice title with a lineup similar to the popular animated series and a possible Shazam series, although nothing is set in stone. If DC decides to continue publishing 52 titles in April, There are 11 spots to be filled, with a possibility for more in May, since at least one series is being cancelled.
If new series weren’t enough, DC is launching multiple weekly series in spring. “Batman Eternal, a Scott Snyder run series with John Layman, James Tynion IV, Tim Seely and Ray Fawkes contributing, will focus on the Bat family and promise something big for Batman’s 75th Anniversary. Jason Fabok is on art, with others most likely joining him. Launching in May, “The New 52: Futures End” will jump ahead five years for a look at the future. The series is from the creative of Jeff Lemire, Brian Azzarello, Dan Jurgens and Keith Giffen. The zero issue that will be released on Free Comic Book Day in May will be drawn by Ethan Van Sciver. Artists for the series have yet to be announced, but Ryan Sook will be doing the covers for every issue.
More from Image:
Image keeps their new slate of titles in top condition with more new series 2014. Chief among them include two from Mark Millar, with “Starlight” already being adapted into a film. In addition, an Image Expo is planned for February with more titles being announced. It will be interesting to watch the company gain momentum as it slowly increases to 10% of the market share.