"Hawkman"-The Original and Revised Versions of the Winged Warrior (40's-70's)

The original version of Hawkman made his first appearance in "Flash Comics"#1 (1940). He was created and drawn by Dennis Neville (followed by artists Sheldon Moldoff & Joe Kubert).

In ancient Egypt, Prince Khufu and his lady love Chay-Ara are captured and killed (with a dagger made of Nth metal) by evil high-priest Hath-Set. But, as Khufu is dying, he swears that he will somehow return for revenge. Flash-forward to 1940, where American archaeologist Carter Hall comes to realize that he was once Prince Khufu, after touching the Nth metal dagger that he and Chay-Ara were once slain with; causing all of his past- life memories to back. Chay-Ara has also returned as Shiera Saunders, while Hath-Set has returned as evil scientist Anton Hastor. After Hastor has kidnapped Shiera, Carter creates an anti-gravity belt with the mysterious Nth metal, as well as a hawk-cowled costume with large wings. As Hawkman, Carter rescues Shiera and Hastor dies by electrocution. Shiera later became Hawkgirl and joined Hawkman in his adventures. Hawkman became a member of the superhero squad 'The Justice Society of America' in "All Star Comics"#3 (Winter 1940) and took over as chairman for the duration in issue #8. Hawkman's mask was slightly altered by artist Joe Kubert in "Flash Comics"#85, and he further changed it to a plainer, simpler yellow cowl in #98. This version of Hawkman made his last solo appearance in "All Star Comics"#57 (1951). He was later considered to be the Earth-Two version.

The revised version of Hawkman made his first appearance in "The Brave and The Bold"#34 (Feb.-Mar. 1961), and was created by Gardner Fox (writer) & Joe Kubert (a classic artist who illustrated the original Hawkman).This Hawkman was a policeman named Kator Hol, from the planet Thanagar (where the police dressed in winged hawk-like costumes). Kator's wife Shayera (who was also in the Hawk Police Force) accompanied him in the pursuit of of dangerous criminal, who had fled to the planet Earth. After their enemy was defeated, they both decided to stay and fight crime on Earth as Hawkman & Hawkgirl (later Hawkwoman). Their costumes were virtually identical to those of their 1940's predecessors and they also had the ability to fly, due to anti-gravity belts and large wings. They took on the names Carter and Shiera Hall (when they weren't fighting crime as Hawkman & Hawkgirl), and became curators for the Midway City Museum. Hawkman soon became a member of 'The Justice League of America', during their early adventures, and remains to this day. This Hawkman is considered to be the Earth-One version. On various adventures with the Justice League, Hawkman has had the opportunity to meet and work with his Earth-Two counterpart, in cross-over team-ups with the Justice Society.

Both versions of Hawkman were said to possess great strength (although, not super-strength), could communicate with birds, and loved to use ancient hand weapons (maces, nets, spears, and shields). The modern version also had scientific weapons at his disposal.

Hawkman has made many appearances on TV (both live-action and animated).
Live-Action---"Legends of the Superheroes" 1979 (played by Bill Nuchols); 'Baby Ruth' candy bar commercial 1997; and in occasional appearances in the hit TV series "Smallville" (portrayed to warrior perfection by Michael Shanks!), during the final 2 seasons.
Animated---"Superman / Aquaman Hour (60's); several versions of the "Super Friends" (70's & 80's); "Justice League" & "Justice League Unlimited", as well as cameo appearances in other Warner Bros. series' and 2 Warner Premiere animated movies (90's-Current).


There have been no feature films yet, but don't you think that Hawkman & Hawkgirl (Hawkwoman) deserve one? I sure do!!!!!

"Jonny Quest"-The Early 'Quests' (1964-1965)

On Sept. 18, 1964; an amazing phenomenon was born! A prime-time science fiction / action / adventure cartoon called "Jonny Quest" began its initial run on ABC Television. The series was produced by Hanna-Barbera and created & designed by Doug Wildey (noted comic book / comic strip artist) in a dramatically realistic, detailed, shaded style (even though the animation was 'limited', but that didn't really matter much). The plots were vividly loaded with intrigue, suspense, monsters, action, adventure, and a great sense of fun! The show was  a big hit, while it also had high ratings and critical acclaim.

The main enduring characters of the series were---Jonny Quest (an 11 year old American boy, who traveled with his scientist father,his bodyguard / tutor, his adopted Indian brother / friend, and his dog.He was proficient in judo, scuba-diving, and the handling & shooting of firearms. He was voiced by actor Tim Matheson); Dr. Benton Quest (Jonny's widowed scientist father, who worked for the government,creating experimental gadgets and weaponry, He was highly intelligent and world acclaimed. He was voiced by John Stephenson and after 5 episodes, Don Messick, for the rest of the series); Roger 'Race' Bannon (former race driver and now special agent,who is Jonny's bodyguard and tutor. He is highly proficient at judo & other martial arts. He is also an ace pilot and an expert in the use of all sorts of weapons. He is also an expert with the ladies; especially 'Jade'. 'Race' was voiced by Mike Road); Hadji (orphaned 11 year old Indian boy, who saved Dr. Quest's life in Calcutta; after which he is adopted by Quest. Able to do amazing feats of magic, such as snake-charming, levitation and hypnotism, which he calls 'tricks'. Hadji is Jonny's adopted brother and friend. He was voiced by Danny Bravo); Bandit (Jonny's small white dog with a black 'mask' of hair around eyes. He seems to understand what humans are thinking and barks loudly, when there is danger); Jade (she is Race's former, but sometimes current, love interest. She is a spy / mercenary, who is excellent in fighting and weaponry skills. Jade was voiced  by Cathy Lewis). The 'Quest' Team's chief nemesis was Dr. Zin (an Asian mastermind).

During the span of the series, the Quest Team fought or encountered a variety of protagonists including---a giant pterodactyl; abominable snowmen; a mummy; foreign spies and inventors; giant lizards; robotic weapons; and pygmies (to name just a few).

The show had a fantastically adventurous music score by Hoyt Curtin (for every episode). "Jonny Quest" was cancelled the following year (1965), due to budgetary constraints. The show came back big-time in syndication, but was somewhat edited, because of use of firearms and some death in certain episodes.

There have 2 other "Jonny Quest" series' and 2 animated  TV movies since that time, although in my opinion, none can top the original series.                                                                                                          

NOTE:
"Jonny Quest"- The Complete 1st Season DVD is available (all 26 episodes), although some episodes have been edited for' political correctness'. This set is well worth your time (and money)! Jonny also had his own comic book series.

"The Incredible Hulk"- The Not-So-Jolly Green Giant (The 60's-70's Era)

The Hulk first smashed his way onto the scene in "The Incredible Hulk"#1 (May 1962). Created by that great superhero maestro, Stan Lee (writer) and the fantastically bombastic artist, Jack Kirby. The original series lasted only six issues, but The Hulk made some splashy appearances with The Fantastic Four (The early,truly epic "Thing vs Hulk" battles), Spider-Man, and The Avengers (of which he was one of the founding members).The Hulk soon gained his own feature again, in "Tales To Astonish"#60-101. During that time  he was drawn by many artistic greats including---Jack Kirby; Steve Ditko; Gil Kane; Bill Everett; John Buscema; and Marie Severin. (Herb Trimpe and Sal Buscema would take on that job, after The Hulk re-gained his own title back).

(Robert) Bruce Banner was test detonating a gamma bomb that he'd created for the U.S. Army, when a teenager, Rick Jones (who would become The Hulk's longtime sidekick afterwards), accidentally drove onto the test site, as the bomb was about to go off! Bruce hurried out to save Rick, but was caught in the gamma radiation from the blast. Thus was born the rampaging, giant, green beast-man; The Incredible Hulk! Banner would transform during times of anger, stress or danger; giving him massive size, extreme strength, invulnerability, and the ability to leap vast distances. The Hulk was relentlessly pursued by the Army, under the command of General 'Thunderbolt' Ross, during his early years. To complicate matters, Bruce was in love with the General's daughter, Betty (but she would later marry Bruce's rival, Glen Talbot; she and Bruce would finally marry after Glen's death in 1981).

The Hulk gained his own title back; "Tales To Astonish" became "The Incredible Hulk" (Vol. 2), with issue #102. He battled many super-powered villains over the years like---The Leader; The Abomination; The Rhino (famous Spider-Man Villain); and countless others. The Wolverine (a superhero who gained immense popularity in the years to come; solo or as part of The X-Men) was introduced in issues #180-181! The Hulk also gained a love interest of his own; a green-skinned beauty from another dimension, named Jarella. In 1972, The Hulk co-founded and became part of the superhero team, The Defenders (which originally included Dr. Strange and The Sub-Mariner). Later members would include---Valkyrie; Nighthawk; Hellcat; The Gargoyle; The Beast; The Son of Satan; and Luke Cage.

In 1977, a black & white magazine called "The Rampaging Hulk" was created. The story-lines dealt with The Hulk's early years. This series lasted for 9 issues. Starting with issue #10, the magazine was changed to "The Hulk", which featured full color stories (set in current days). The Moon-Knight was a back-up feature in the magazine.

The 70's and 80's brought the live-action TV series "The Incredible Hulk", starring Bill Bixby as Dr. David Banner and Lou Ferrigno as The Hulk (they also co-starred in 3 follow-up TV movies).In the 2000's, The Hulk has been in 3 live-action major motion pictures---"The Hulk" (starring Eric Bana); "The Incredible Hulk" (starring Edward Norton); and last year's blockbuster hit, "The Avengers" (starring Mark Ruffalo as you-know-who). In these movies, The Hulk was created by C.G.I. and motion-capture actor performance. The Hulk has also been in many animated series' and animated movies, over the years.

The Hulk continues to 'smash' his way into fans' hearts, and will for many years to come!!!

"Spider-man"-The ''67' Cartoon Series (The Classic 1st Season)

On Sept. 9, 1967," Spider-Man" comic book fans were given a real treat!!! ABC TV and Grantray Animation introduced us to their 'classic' animated version of Spidey's exploits. I've chosen to talk mainly about the 1st season, because it captured the feel of the comic books, in the very best sense (including epic battles with all of the truly classic villains from the pages of  "The Amazing Spider-Man"). It also greatly helped to have Marvel's Stan Lee (one of Spidey's original creators) as a story consultant and John Romita Sr. (one of Spidey's truly classic artists) as an art consultant! The 2nd & 3rd seasons were done on a vastly reduced budget by a different production company (run by animator Ralph Bakshi, who helmed many animated feature films after that time), but hardly any of the classic comic book villains were used (mainly monsters, aliens and unknown sorcerers). The animation style was altered and the series was given a somewhat psychedelic look (with strangely colored skies in the background).

MEANWHILE, let's get back to our subject; the classic 1st season! The "Spider-Man" series had a very catchy theme song by Paul Francis Webster (lyrics) and Bob Harris (music); along with great music in the background, to punctuate the action. The characters were voiced by Canadian actors, which included---Paul Soles (perfect as Spider-Man / Peter Parker); Paul Kligman (excellent as J. Jonah Jameson); Peg Dixon (as a sweet and supportive Betty Brant, who had a crush on Peter); and wonderfully narrated by Bernard Cowan. The voices for the villains and supporting characters, were also very effective.

The Classic Villain Rogues Gallery was in full force here! Included were greats like---The Green Goblin; The Lizard; Dr. Octopus; Electro; The Vulture; The Rhino; The Scorpion; Mysterio; and The Sandman. There were also some interesting villains created just for the show (like The Human Fly brothers, for an example). The 1st season was packed with excitement and colorful battles with all of the classic villains you could ask for. Many of the stories followed very closely to those in "The Amazing Spider-Man" comic magazine. The show gave the feel of watching a 'living' Spider-Man comic. Spider-Man's origin story wasn't shown until the first episode of the 2nd season, though.

Several years ago, "Spider-Man--The '67' Collection" was released on DVD (including all 52 episodes from Seasons 1,2 & 3). I proudly own this collection and enjoy it immensely (especially the classic 1st season, Of Course). Seek it out. I'm sure you'll enjoy it!

Note: I wish the image above could have been from the original series, but I think this picture more than adequately captures the essence.

"Green Lantern" (Hal Jordan)-From The 50's to the 70's

Green Lantern (Alan Scott) was originally created in 1940, with a totally different origin than the 'revised' version, who I'm going to talk about now. Created in 1959 by John Broome (writer) and Gil Kane (artist); Green Lantern / Hal Jordan made his debut in "Showcase"#22 (Sept.-Oct.).

Hal Jordan (Test Pilot) was trying an experimental aircraft component, when he was drawn by the power-ring of a dying alien, to where he had crash-landed. The alien being (named Abin Sur) was part of an elite group of universe protectors called The Green Lantern Corps (who were sent out to different quadrants of the Galaxy by an immortal blue-skinned race of beings, who called themselves 'The Guardians of the Universe'). Since Abin Sur  was dying, his power-ring sought out a worthy successor to take his place; and that person was Hal! He put on the outfit and power-ring, which gave him the ability to fly, the ability to create solid objects, and to shoot power energy beams. He was also given a re-charging power lamp to re-energize his ring, while reciting this oath---"In brightest day, in blackest night; no evil shall escape my sight. Let those who worship evil's might; beware my power, Green Lantern's light! And thus, Hal Jordan became "Green Lantern". Soon after, he became one of the founding members of the "Justice League of America". The Guardians had also appointed 2 other back-up Green Lanterns (Guy Gardner & John Stewart), if Hal couldn't fulfill his duty, for whatever reason.

Hal love interest was Carol Ferris (to whom he revealed his identity to in "G.L."#83).  His chief adversary was Sinestro (who was a former Green Lantern), who had a yellow power-ring (the color yellow was the only weakness for G.L.'s power-ring ). Gil Kane's fantastic artistry graced the pages of the "Green Lantern" comic books up through No. #75. During that era, the series won the 1961 Alley Award for "Best Adventure Hero / Heroine (with own book)!

In 1970, the series became "Green Lantern / Green Arrow" (starting with issue #76), with Denny O'Neil handling the writing duties (with his amazing skill), and Neal Adams bringing his awe-inspiring artistic abilities. The series took on socially conscious themes and a more serious tone (one particular stand-out was the award-winning "Snow Birds Don't Fly" in issues #85 & 86; the story dealt with Green Arrow's side-kick Speedy / Roy Harper needing help beating a heroin addiction)! The team of Denny O'Neil and Neal Adams won several Shazam Awards, during their 14 issue collaboration (Dick Giordano also won for his inking skills). After that, "Green Lantern / Green Arrow" became a back-up feature in "The Flash" for several issues. The Black Canary (Green Arrow's lady love) appeared frequently with Green Lantern and Green Arrow, during that era (and the next one).

"Green Lantern / Green Arrow" comics were eventually re-launched for a 15 issue stint, featuring the great Mike Grell carrying on the tradition of fabulous artistry, in high style.

The many other-worldly Green Lanterns have been featured from time to time, in their own stories.

"Green Lantern" has appeared in a TV special ("Legends of the Superheroes"), many animated series', a feature film (starring Ryan Reynolds as G.L.) and 2 "Warner Premiere" full length animated films.

There have been several other Green Lanterns (of Earth) since that time (as seen in the picture above---by the way, Hal Jordan / Green Lantern is the one in the top left corner), but Hal was always definitely my personal favorite. In my book, he'll always be the 'definitive' Green Lantern!

"The Spectre & Deadman"- 2 Very 'Spirited' Superheroes (1940's-1970's)

The Spectre / Jim Corrigan made his first full appearance in "More Fun Comics"#52 (Feb. 1940), although he was featured in an ad, the month before (announcing his arrival). He was created by Jerry Siegal and Bernard Baily.

Tough cop Jim Corrigan was murdered by criminals, and sunk to the bottom of the river in a cement-filled barrel. He was denied entrance into the after-life by "The Voice", and sent back to eradicate evil. Returning as Jim Corrigan, he developed a hooded green and white costume and became "The Spectre". He would usually destroy evil-doers in a supernatural fashion. He later joined the "Justice Society of America" in "All Star Comics" for many adventures.

The Spectre was not seen much for many years, until he was revived in "Showcase"#60 (Feb. 1966). He was given nearly omnipotent powers at that time. He made appearances in the annual Justice League / Justice Society team-ups, as well as "The Brave and the Bold" (with The Flash). The Spectre gained his own title in 1967, with artwork by Neal Adams and others. During this period, he became more of a regular superhero type, with less of a vengeful edge. This era ended in "Justice League of America"#83, with The Spectre supposedly destroyed.

The Spectre came back with a violent vengeance  in "Adventure Comics"#431-440, destroying evil in unique and grisly methods. He was illustrated by the amazing Jim Aparo, in his own special fashion.


Deadman / Boston Brand first appeared in "Strange Adventures"#205 (Oct. 1967). He was created by Arnold Drake and Carmine Infantino. Neal Adams took over artistic duties, starting with the next issue.

Boston Brand,a trapeze aerialist (who performed his act in a weird red costume; calling himself "Deadman"), was shot dead during his performance, by a man with a hook hand. He was brought back as an unseen spirit to find and wreak vengeance on his killer; by the 'goddess' Rama Kushna. Deadman was given the power to enter anyone at will and take over their physical functions. He could also fly. Later, he discovers why he was killed, and what happened to his hook-handed killer. The Hook was part of an organization that wanted Brand silenced after he uncovered some of their dealings.

In 1972, artist Jack Kirby was given the assignment of incorporating Deadman into his own series, "The Forever People" (issues #9 & 10) Deadman is given the task of stopping an organization called the Scavengers. He is aided by The Forever People, who create an artificial body for Deadman to inhabit (which looks like he would, if he could be seen), called The Follower.


Both 'spirited' heroes, The Spectre and Deadman have made appearances on animated TV shows, and still continue to thrill comic book readers to this day!!!


"EXTRA NOTE:  Although I haven't collected comic books for a long time, I decided to take part in "Free Comic Book Day" at 2 of the local comic dealers. I had a great time collecting several free comic books (including "Superman"), and a small "Batman" playing piece. I would they'd had special days like this when I was younger!

"Captain America"-The Patriot Superhero (1940's-1970's)

Captain America / Steve Rogers was created by Joe Simon and Jack Kirby, and made his first appearance in "Captain America Comics"#1 in March of 1941. He was a patriotic hero from the start, battling the Axis and his arch-enemy, the Red Skull; with the help of his pal and sidekick, Bucky Barnes.

Steve Rogers was a scrawny 4-F, who was considered unfit for military service. He is given a experimental serum, which forever changes him into a muscular, extremely agile super-soldier. He also is given a red, white and mostly blue superhero costume, a nearly indestructible shield, and gains a 16 year old costumed assistant,Bucky. They had many adventures together in various comic titles until around 1950. There was a failed attempt to revive Captain America and Bucky in 1953, but it didn't take. Captain America would have to wait until the 60's to get a proper revival.

In "The Avengers"#4 (March 1964), Captain America is found frozen in a block of ice and revived by the Avengers. Back in W.W. 2, Cap and Bucky were battling the Red Skull. Bucky supposedly dies in an explosion  ( although he was found alive and brainwashed by the Soviets; much later he is restored to normal), which also buries the Red Skull in a pocket of gas, in suspended animation until the 60's. Cap is captured by Baron Zemo, and is frozen until he is revived by the Avengers; the superhero group he promptly joins. He gained his own solo feature in "Tales of Suspense"#58-99 (drawn in every issue except for two, by Jack Kirby). With issue #100, the title became "Captain America" and drawn by a variety of artists, including Gil Kane.

The Falcon / Samuel Wilson (with his pet falcon, Redwing) was introduced in "Captain America"#117. The African-American superhero became Cap's full-time teammate in #134 (Feb. 1971), which lasted until #222 (June 1978). Most of that series was drawn by the great Sal Buscema. Jack Kirby again took over artistic duties from #193-#214.

In the late 70's, a W.W.2 revival series was created. That series was "The Invaders", which was about a superhero group that battled Hitler's forces, as well as other W.W.2 era menaces. The group consisted of --Captain America & Bucky, The Human Torch & Toro, and the Sub-Mariner.

Captain America has been in a 1944 serial (starring Dick Purcell), several animated series', 2 TV movies (starring Reb Brown), and a little known movie release (starring Matt Salinger). In 2011, "Captain America" was finally made into a fantastic blockbuster, starring Chris Evans (there is currently a sequel in the works, called "Captain America-The Winter Soldier"). Evans wonderfully repeated the role of Captain America, in the Box-Office smash, "The Avengers" (2012). Chris Evans perfectly portrayed Captain America's old fashioned values, unswerving patriotism, and spirit of self-sacrifice. I'm eagerly anticipating the release of the "Captain America" sequel!

"Captain America" continues to be a great symbol of American strength and patriotism!