"Comic Relief" (Classic Superhero 'Spoofs & Satires")

Superheroes have been given the "spoof & satire" treatment since the beginning of their very existence, and the results have usually been hilarious!!! No heroes and heroines have parodied more than those of "DC"  and "Marvel" Comics.

The trend really took off during the 1950's with the arrival of EC Comics' "Mad" comic book. "Mad" featured excellent take-offs of Superman, Batman & Robin, Wonder Woman, Prince Valiant, Sherlock Holmes, and many more! In the 60's, "Mad" became a slick magazine with 'Black & White' comics, which continued their spoofs & satires of  nearly every comic book (DC & Marvel), TV show, Movie or Trend that was popular at all (which they continue to do, to current day!). The writers and artists of "Mad Magazine" were (and are) no slouch at doing superhero parodies (from the 60's "Batman" TV show to the current 'Marvel' & DC' Blockbuster movies). Renderings of nearly every DC & Marvel hero and heroine, done with zany style by greats like---Sergio Aragones; Don Martin; Jack Davis; Wally Wood; and countless other totally 'mad' artists. There have been two hardcover editions of their superhero work (so far), as well as countless paperbacks.

During the 1960's, Marvel published a comic book series called "Not Brand Ecch". In this 13 issue series, Marvel spoofed all of their very own superheroes (with examples like---Spidey-Man; Ecchs Men, The Mighty Sore; and The Inedible Bulk; along with countless others).DC, Gold Key & Tower Comics heroes were also spoofed! They also created a wannabe hero named "Forbush Man", who wore a cooking pot (with eye-holes) helmet, red long-johns, a rag cape, and sloppy galoshes; with an 'F' stitched to his chest. The series was written & drawn by the 'classic' Marvel legends like---Stan Lee; Jack Kirby; Gene Colan; Bill Everett; John & Marie Severin; Roy Thomas; and many more. What a line-up!!!

DC Comics came up with their own spoofy superheroes in 1967. They were called the "Inferior Five", who were sons & daughter of parodies of DC's own "Justice League of America" The series was created by E. Nelson Bridwell (writer), with Joe Orlando & Mike Esposito (artists), which ran in 3 issues of "Showcase", as well as 12 issues of "Inferior Five" (in which they also spoofed rival Marvel  superheroes, like the "Fantastic Four" & others).
"The Inferior Five" consisted of "Merryman" (extremely intelligent, but also extremely weak); "Awkwardman" (super-strong, could breathe underwater, but very clumsy); "Dumb Bunny" (totally stupid, but super-strong); "White Feather" (a shy, but very good archer, if nobody was watching him); and "The Blimp" (who could fly at a 'snail's pace').

DC & Marvel should be proud having "Superhero Characters" who are so popular that they can be effectively spoofed (and they definitely were)!!!

"Quicksilver"-Marvel's Mutant Speedster in the 60's & 70's!

Quicksilver (Pietro Maximoff) started out as an unwitting enemy to the X-Men, when he zipped onto the scene in "X-Men"#4 (Mar. 1964). He was created by the ever-popular team of Stan Lee (writer, editor) and Jack Kirby (artist, co-writer). Quicksilver and his twin sister, the Scarlet Witch were part of Magneto's 'Brotherhood of Evil Mutants'. After several encounters with the 'Brotherhood', the X-Men came to realize that Quicksilver & the Scarlet Witch were not evil, but were being manipulated by Magneto (who, as it turns out, is their father!!!; Quicksilver & the Scarlet Witch (Pietro & Wanda) were given as children to the Maximoff family, by 'The High Evolutionary'. They have a half-sister named Polaris).

Quicksilver's powers consisted of---Superhuman Speed (for running and flight); and the ability to create whirlwind dervishes with his arms. His costume had a lightning bolt across his torso, back & waist. It was originally green (with white gloves, boots & lightning bolt) and later was light blue (also with white gloves, boots & lightning bolt).

Quicksilver and the Scarlet Witch were soon recruited (by Iron Man) for membership in the Avengers (after Captain America & Hawkeye had joined). They were regular members until the Scarlet Witch was wounded on a mission against Magneto. Quicksilver later enlisted the help of the Avengers, to rescue his sister from the Sentinels (giant robots who were programmed to 'capture and destroy' mutants), who had taken her to another dimension. They rejoined the team after that. During a later mission, Quicksilver was wounded by one of the Sentinels. He was restored to health by Crystal, of the mutant group 'The Inhumans' (who was romantically linked to Johnny Storm / The Human Torch, of the Fantastic Four, for many years). Pietro and Crystal soon fell in love and while they were on  an adventure with the F.F.; she told Johnny that she was no longer in love with him, but was now in love with Pietro. Pietro and Crystal were married and eventually had a daughter named Luna.

Quicksilver's TV Animation appearances have included---"The Marvel Superheroes"; "X-Men: The Animated Series";"X-Men: Evolution"; "Wolverine and the X-Men"; and "The Super Hero Squad Show".

Quicksilver will appear in the 2014 live-action film, "X-Men: Days of Future Past". He and the Scarlet Witch are slated to appear in "The Avengers: Age of Ultron" (forthcoming feature film).

I often wonder how Quicksilver would fare in a race with The Flash (of DC Comics). They  both have exclusive facets, which accompany their super-speed abilities. Who do YOU think would win??? Let me know at comicnerd75@gmail.com.


Quicksilver holds an honored place in comic book history!  

"Captain Marvel vs Captain Marvel"---Which is your Favorite? You Decide!!!

The first Captain Marvel (also known as 'The World's Mightiest Mortal' and 'The Big Red Cheese'!) first appeared in "Whiz Comics"#2 (1939); and was created by C.C. Beck (artist) & Bill Parker (writer).

Billy Batson (a homeless 12 year old) was a radio news reporter, who followed a mysterious stranger down into a subway tunnel. In an unknown part, he discovered the wizard "Shazam". The wizard explained his mission to Billy and told him of the powers, which would be endowed on him (merely by speaking the name 'Shazam'). Billy did so and turned into the adult superhero, Captain Marvel (who had a bright red costume with a yellow lightning bolt on his chest, yellow belt, wrist bands and boots, and a white-yellow-trimmed cape)! Captain Marvel's powers included---'Wisdom of Solomon'; 'Strength of Hercules'; 'Stamina of Atlas'; 'Power of Zeus'; 'Courage of Achilles'; as well as the Speed (and Flight) of Mercury!!!

His later side-kicks included---Mary Marvel (Mary Bromfield, Billy's sister); Captain Marvel Jr. (Freddie Freeman); The Lieutenant Marvels; and Mr. Tawky Tawny (a talking tiger, who wore clothes and walked upright). His major enemies included---Dr. Sivana (and the Sivana Family); Black Adam (with powers like 'C.M.'s); Mister Mind (an evil super-intelligent worm?!?!); and The Monster Society of Evil.

"Captain Marvel" was cancelled in 1953 (due to copyright problems), but was revived in 1973 with "Shazam"#1. The Marvel Family (and friends) and the Sivana Family were awakened from Sivana-induced suspended animation. Captain Marvel (with friends & foes) has been around ever since. His original series was from "Fawcett" Publications; the latter series was from "DC Comics".



He has made many appearances on TV (a 70's cartoon series, a live-action 70's series, a live- action multi-superhero special, and several appearances in 'Warner Premiere' Animated Movies).

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The "Marvel Comics" version of Captain Marvel (he originally had a green and white costume) made his first appearance in "Marvel Super-Heroes"#12 (Dec. 1967). He was created by Stan Lee (writer) & Gene Colon (artist).

Mar-Vell was a soldier for the Kree Empire from the Kree Galaxy, who was sent by his commander, Yon-Rogg, to observe Earth's space-travel progress, and infiltrate them. Yon-Rogg (in an act of betrayal, over a lady!) tried to kill Mar-Vell with a robot called 'The Sentry', but Yon-Rogg's plans were foiled. During that time, an Earthman named Dr. Walter Lawson (who had an uncanny resemblance to Mar-Vell) was killed, so Mar-Vell took on his identity, after deciding to remain on Earth. He also took on the superhero persona of "Captain Marvel". Yon-Rogg continued his attacks, with the help of Ronan the Accuser; attempting to kill Mar-Vell (now Dr. Walter Lawson). Lawson's lab asst. Carol Danvers was presumably killed (she would later be revived, having the same powers as Captain Marvel, due to exposure to Yon-Rogg's Psyche-Magnetron and some of Captain Marvel's DNA!!! She soon took on the superheroine identity of Ms. Marvel)!     Captain Marvel's (and Ms. Marvel's) powers & abilities included---Super-Human Strength; Flight; Cosmic Awareness; and Solar Energy Absorption & Projection.

Captain Marvel's major enemies (besides Yon-Rogg) included---The Skrulls (alien race, enemy to the Kree Empire); Ronan the Accuser; and Thanos (an alien being with infinite powers).

Captain Marvel gained increased abilities, and earned a new costume (of honor) from Kree Supreme Intelligence, after returning to his home planet! This costume was red & dark blue, with a 'cosmic star' on the chest. Upon trying to return to Earth, he was exiled to an inter-dimensional realm, called 'The Negative Zone'. The Kree then recruited an Earth youth named Rick Jones (who had been a friend & companion to "The Incredible Hulk), and gave him Nega-Bands. When Rick struck these wrist-bands together, he would switch places between Earth and The Negative Zone ,with Captain Marvel (and vice-versa).

Captain Marvel actually died in a graphic novel called "The Death of Captain Marvel", due to cancer, caused by exposure to nerve-gas!!! He was thought to be revived when Tony Stark (Iron Man), Reed Richards (Mr. Fantastic of the Fantastic 4), and Hank Pym (Ant-Man, Goliath, Yellowjacket, etc etc...) brought back a Captain Marvel look-a-like, through a time / space wrinkle in The Negative Zone. This Captain Marvel was actually a Skrull 'sleeper-agent', who had taken on Captain Marvel's appearance, powers & even his memories (he thought that he was the 'real' Captain Marvel). He became a true hero, who sacrificed himself to save the Earth!

Captain Marvel left quite a legacy---Genis & Phyla Vell (his son & daughter, who both later took on the name of Captain Marvel); Monica Rambeau (who became Captain Marvel); Hulkling (a son of Mar-Vell & a Skrull princess); and Ms. Marvel / Carol Danvers, who took on the role of Captain Marvel, in recent years.


Well, both Captain Marvels (from DC & Marvel Comics, respectively) have impressive (and extremely cool) powers and long-lasting legacies!!! Which one do you like better? Cast your vote at "comicnerd75@gmail.com",    I eagerly await your reply!!!

"Doctor Strange"-The Sorcerer Supreme's Mystical Beginnings (60's & 70's)

What a paradox; a hero who uses 'Black Magic' to battle evil! How does that work??!!
Doctor Strange made his mystic debut in"Strange Tales"#110 (July 1963). The 'Sorcerer Supreme' was created by the fantastic team of Stan Lee (writer, editor) & Steve Ditko (artist, co-plotter); the duo who had also created "The Amazing Spider-Man"!

Dr. Stephen Strange (a gifted, but arrogant neurosurgeon; who was also a genius) had gotten into a terrible car accident, which damaged his hands (his livelihood)  He sought out every possibility for healing and restoration for them, to no avail! Finally he sought out a mystic called the 'Ancient One', who resided in the Himalayas. He proceeded to teach Stephen the magical 'black arts', which he in turn used to defeat Baron Mordo (one of the good doctor's enemies for years to come). Stephen became a master of the mystic arts, and took on the name "Doctor Strange". He began to battle evil in other-worldly realms and dimensions. Some of the enemies he encountered there included---(The Dread) Dormammu; Nightmare; The Living Tribunal; and Umar (Dormammu's sister). He also gained a love interest named Clea, who joined him on his inter-dimensional adventures. Besides the 'mystic arts', Doctor Strange had the power of flight and was good at martial arts. He  resided in his 'Sanctum Santorum' and used magical artifacts, which included---Cloak of Levitation; Eye of Agamotto; Book of the Vishanti; and the Orb of Agammotto.

Steve Ditko's wildly amazing artwork took readers to dazzling, fantastical, (and very trippy) fantasy worlds, which were loaded with imagination and dangerous situations. Other great writers (Roy Thomas; Denny O'Neil; Raymond Marais; Jim Lawrence) & artists (Bill Everett; Marie Severin; Dan Adkins) joined the party.

After issue #168, the comic book was re-titled "Doctor Strange". The extremely talented team of artists, Gene Colon (penciler) & Tom Palmer (inker) took over the series, with wonderful, but very different results. In issue #177, Doctor Strange was given a 'superhero' mask and form-fitting costume, but this change didn't last long. The series was cancelled by #183. He returned  in "Marvel Feature" (Dec. 1971-June 1972). During this time "The Defenders" were created (and eventually got their own series), which included Strange, The Hulk & Namor, the Sub-Mariner. "Marvel Feature" became "Doctor Strange: Master of the Mystic Arts" and lasted for 81 issues (from June 1974-Feb. 1987)! In a fantastic two-part cross-over story ("Doctor Strange"#14 & "Tomb of Dracula"#44), Doctor Strange did battle with Dracula!!! Both issues were drawn by the great Gene Colon, who regularly illustrated both series'.

Doctor Strange has appeared in many animated series' over the years (including the likes of Spider-Man, The Hulk, and many others). He appeared in a live-action TV movie ("Dr. Strange"-9/6/78), which starred Peter Hooten as the Doctor. There have been many times that producers & directors have wanted to bring him to the big screen (1986, 1994-95, 1997, 2001, 2005, 2008). In May of 2013, Marvel Studios President, Kevin Feige announced that a "Doctor Strange" feature film was in development. Well, here's hoping that it works this time and that it is faithful to the comic!!!

"The Joker" (PART 2)-"4-Ever Crazy 4 U;" Love, Harley!!!

Well, I guess it happens to everybody (even a total 'nut-job' like the Joker)! After being a part of comic book history since 1940, the Joker finally gained a 'love interest' / side-kick in the extremely quirky, hopelessly devoted (and totally 'insane'); "Harley Quinn"! She started out as a walk-on character (on Sept. 11,1992), who was the Joker's side-kick in an episode of the excellent, 'Emmy Award'-winning "Batman: The Animated Series"; called "The Joker's Favor". Harley was created by the wonderfully creative team of Paul Dini & Bruce Timm! She became so popular that she appeared frequently in many episodes of the series (as well as later 'Batman' animated series') and soon burst her way into comic books! Harley Quinn was voiced to perfection by TV 'soap opera' actress, Arlene Sorkin (with a hilarious, high-pitched, totally wacky, somewhat sexy 'Brooklyn-accented tone). Paul Dini was inspired to create the character, when he saw an episode of the soap opera "Days of Our Lives" in which Arlene (a friend of Paul's & a former college-mate) was featured in a 'dream sequence', dressed in a jester's outfit. He gave Harley some of Arlene's characteristics as well as her voice.

The Joker was never a devoted or reliable lover for Harley, even though she was obsessively & hopelessly devoted to him (it reminds me of the 70's song "Hopelessly Devoted To You" by Olivia Newton-John, from the movie "Grease"). He would continually throw her (and her pet hyenas) out, leave her behind for Batman or the police to capture, seriously injure her, or even try to kill her; yet she always came running back to him like a lost puppy (with that nutty lovelorn smile). She always called him 'Mr. J.' or Puddin'. She wanted to impress 'Mr. J. with her elaborate schemes to kill Batman, but this usually infuriated the Joker, because he wanted to kill Batman himself. Harley did gain a close friend and frequent ally in Poison Ivy, who gave her an anti-toxin, which gave her increased strength & agility and an immunity to most poisons & toxins.

Harley has appeared in countless comic book stories since she began, but the most acclaimed was a 1994 "Batman" graphic novel, called "Mad Love" (it was written by Dini & drawn by Timm. It won the 'Eisner' & 'Harvey' Awards for excellence); which featured her 'origin' story. Harleen Quinzel (a budding psychiatrist) took on the case of the Joker, who was locked away in the Arkham Asylum for the Insane. During their sessions, she soon fell in love(?!!) with him and would help him escape. She went completely 'bonkers' after the Joker was injured and returned to Arkham by Batman. Harleen donned a red & black harlequin jester's costume and become the Joker's lover, side-kick, and frequent door-mat. She became a sworn enemy of Batman, Robin & Batgirl. She had advanced gymnastic & martial arts skills. "Mad Love" was adapted into an animated episode of "The New Batman Adventures" (1999). Special Note: Due to her increased popularity, "Harley Quinn" was given her own self-titled comic book series (2001-2003), which lasted for 38 issues.

Other TV animated series that she has appeared in included---"Gotham Girls" (web-casts); "Justice League" ("Wild Cards"); "The Batman"; and "Static Shock" (Hard As Nails"),which were voiced by Sorkin and other fine actresses.

Animated Movies---"World's Finest-The Batman / Superman Movie" & "Batman Beyond-Return of the Joker".

Live-Action TV Show---"Birds of Prey" (Harleen / Harley was played by Mia Sara, although Sherilyn Fenn was the original choice.

Harley Quinn was chosen 45th in IGN'S 2009 List of "Top 100 Comic Book Villains of All Time". She was chosen 16th of "Comic Book Buyer's Guide's 100 Sexiest Women in Comics.

Harley is and has always been an extremely interesting, wildly unpredictable, and sometimes very hilarious addition to the list of Batman's enemies!!!