40 years ago this week: more than two dozen Japanese toys spend two days with Bob Budiansky and emerge as characters on the other side.
To read all of the original 1984 #transformers profiles, head to:
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GH: GHOST RIDER #80
The last regular issue of GHOST RIDER I bought was #80,–literally just one issue away from the series’ cancellation with #81. So why did I jump off here, right before the end/ Well, the honest reason is that GHOST RIDER was never a book I was all that interested in. I bought it out of habit for a very long time, only really enjoying it infrequently across that period. I had the available funds,…
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The Evolution of Ghost Rider: A Journey through the Stern-DeMatteis Era
In the vast and ever-expanding universe of Marvel Comics, certain runs stand out as transformative moments for characters, reshaping their narratives and defining their identities. One such epochal period occurred within the Ghost Rider series, spanning from issue number 68 to the poignant conclusion in issue 81. What began as Roger Stern's stewardship transitioned seamlessly into J.M. DeMatteis' tenure, crafting a storyline that not only delved into the depths of Johnny Blaze's tortured soul but also elevated Mephisto to the status of his arch-nemesis. As the flames of vengeance intertwined with the intricacies of demonology, readers were treated to a saga that not only expanded the mythos of Ghost Rider but also explored the complexities of morality and redemption
The Genesis of Change: Roger Stern's Reign
Roger Stern's takeover of Ghost Rider marked a significant turning point in the character's mythology. Issue 68 served as a catalyst, introducing subtle yet profound alterations to Johnny Blaze's origin story. By retconning Satan's role and replacing it with Mephisto, Stern not only streamlined the narrative but also established a more intricate dynamic between the Spirit of Vengeance and his eternal foe. This shift laid the groundwork for future explorations into the depths of Johnny's torment and the insidious influence of Mephisto's machinations
Throughout Stern's tenure, themes of redemption and the eternal struggle between good and evil permeated each issue. Johnny Blaze's internal conflict was brought to the forefront, as he grappled with the consequences of his Faustian bargain and sought to atone for his sins through acts of heroism. Stern's masterful storytelling, coupled with the dynamic artwork of Bob Budiansky, brought a sense of gravitas to each panel, immersing readers in a world where the boundaries between light and darkness blurred
The Ascension of Mephisto: J.M. DeMatteis' Magnum Opus
As Stern's run drew to a close, J.M. DeMatteis took up the mantle, guiding Ghost Rider through his final trials and tribulations. Issue 81, aptly titled 'The End of Ghost Rider,' served as a poignant conclusion to this chapter of Johnny Blaze's journey, offering closure while paving the way for future narratives. DeMatteis' writing brought a sense of depth and introspection to the series, delving into the psyche of both hero and villain alike
One of the most significant contributions of DeMatteis' tenure was the elevation of Mephisto from mere antagonist to Johnny Blaze's ultimate nemesis. Through intricate storytelling and nuanced characterization, Mephisto emerged as a formidable adversary, a dark mirror to Johnny's tortured soul. Theirs became a battle not only of strength but of willpower and resilience, with each confrontation pushing both characters to their limits
The Redemption of Zarathos: Unraveling the Demon's Past
Central to the Stern-DeMatteis era was the exploration of Zarathos, the demonic entity bound to Johnny Blaze's fate. As the series progressed, glimpses of Zarathos' tragic past emerged, shedding light on the origins of the Spirit of Vengeance and his eternal quest for redemption. Through intricate storytelling and subtle foreshadowing, Stern and DeMatteis wove a tapestry of intrigue and mystery, unraveling the layers of Zarathos' identity while deepening the connection between host and spirit
By delving into Zarathos' backstory, the series added depth and complexity to the character, transforming him from a mere instrument of vengeance into a figure of tragic heroism. His struggles became emblematic of the eternal battle between light and darkness, as he grappled with his own nature while striving to protect those he cared for. In the end, Zarathos' journey mirrored Johnny Blaze's own quest for redemption, forging a bond that transcended the confines of flesh and blood
A Legacy of Flame and Shadow
The Stern-DeMatteis era of Ghost Rider stands as a testament to the transformative power of storytelling within the realm of comics. Through meticulous characterization, intricate plotting, and dynamic artwork, the series breathed new life into the mythos of Ghost Rider, reshaping the character's identity for generations to come. From the retconning of Johnny Blaze's origin to the elevation of Mephisto as his arch-nemesis, each issue served as a building block in a narrative tapestry that explored the depths of human emotion and the eternal struggle between good and evil
As fans look back on this seminal era, they are reminded not only of the trials and tribulations of Johnny Blaze and Mephisto but also of the enduring legacy of Ghost Rider as a character. Through flame and shadow, redemption and damnation, the Spirit of Vengeance endures, a beacon of hope in a world consumed by darkness. And though the fires may wane and the shadows may lengthen, the spirit of Ghost Rider lives on, eternal and unyielding, a testament to the power of storytelling to transcend the boundaries of time and space
Buy Marvel Masterworks: Ghost Rider Vol. 6
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I liked the Marvel Transformers comics, but if you binge them they kind of give the impression that the writers had internalized the criticism of "superhero comics are boring because you know the good guys will win all the time" and so decided to make sure that the good guys would never win not even once.
A triumphant victory for the Marvel Comics Autobots is when only half their dudes get killed instead of two thirds.
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Original Art - Star Wars Weekly #052 Inside Front Cover (1979) by Bob Budiansky And Frank Springer (Marvel UK)
From ha.com...
Luke, Han, Chewie, and C-3PO are featured on this great-looking unused cover image that was repurposed as an inside pin-up.
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If you were a fan of Jim Lee’s X-Men trading cards in 1992, you owe it to yourself to pick up The Uncanny X-Men Trading Cards: The Complete Series from Abrams Comic Arts. Published in 2022 to celebrate the 30th anniversary of the legendary Impel card set, the digest-size book collects the front and back of each collectible card in the set along with select scans of Lee’s original and digitally remastered art and 4 new bonus cards.
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I’m at a TFCon panel with Bob Budiansky, and he mentioned Jetfire.
Without a moment of hesitation, someone yelled out “SKYFIRE” and I swear to god, I’ve never seen more of a death glare.
God I love this hobby.
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Saw the original outline for Ratchet written by Bob Budiansky, and thought I’d take a stab at a female version of Ratchet or Ratchette of you will.
The “Med-Sled” was a challenge to design but I think it all came out really well.
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