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"It was a different time." That seems to be the motto for this month’s episode of Collecting Issues. Join Michael and Benjamin as they crack open the briefcase on 100 Bullets: First Shot, Last Call. Published in 1999 by Vertigo Comics, this multi-Eisner and Harvey Award-winning series by Brian Azzarello and Eduardo Risso was hailed as a gritty crime revolution. But does it hold up in 2026? We dive deep into the first two story arcs, discussing the intriguing "John Wick-style" premise: If you were given a gun, 100 untraceable bullets, and proof of who ruined your life, would you take revenge? In this episode, we discuss: The Premise: Agent Graves and his devil’s bargain.The Art of Eduardo Risso: Noir shadows, distinct silhouettes, and the "Risso Grin."A Product of the 90s: Why the dialogue, racial depictions, and female anatomy feel like a time capsule of "grim and gritty" 90s media (comparisons to Sin City and Pulp Fiction included).The Story Arcs: Dizzy Cordova’s return to the streets and the Black Mirror-esque tragedy of Lee Dolan.The Verdict: Is the overarching conspiracy enough to keep us reading despite the "cringe" factor?Next Month’s Read: We are cleansing the palette with Absolute Martian Manhunter Vol. 1 by Deniz Camp & Javier Rodríguez and diving into the source material for Ryan Murphy’s The Beauty. Follow the Podcast: Join the Discord and read along Read Our Substack Follow us on Instagram Follow us on Tiktok Watch us on Youtube If you enjoyed this episode, please leave us a review on Spotify or Apple Podcasts. It helps more than you know! Time Stamps: 00:00 Introduction to Jim Steranko's Influence 00:54 Welcome to Collecting Issues 01:47 Trigger Warnings and Spoilers Ahead 03:01 The Eisner Awards and 100 Bullets 03:58 Personal Context and 90s Comic Culture 07:37 The Neo-Noir Influence 13:10 Exploring the Anthology Format 19:53 Eduardo Risso's Distinctive Art Style 28:54 The Intriguing Premise of 100 Bullets 32:18 Exploring Narrative Tropes in '100 Bullets' 32:49 Dizzy Cordova's Tragic Story 34:35 Agent Graves and the Devil's Bargain 35:28 Critique of Eduardo Rizzo's Art and Dialogue 36:33 Dizzy's Return and Family Dynamics 37:11 Setting and Cultural Depictions 43:38 Moral Dilemmas and Storytelling Mechanics 46:00 Introduction to Meghan Dietrich 48:09 Lee Dolan's Downfall 57:22 Comparisons to Sin City 59:00 Final Thoughts and Future Reads Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Welcome back to Collecting Issues, your monthly comic book club! To close out 2025, we are wading deep into the bog of Irish Myth to discuss Tuatha, the stunning one-shot from Irish creator Gavin Fullerton, published by IDW Comics. If Samurai Jack and Hellboy had a baby and sent it on a grim quest across a war-torn ancient Ireland, it would look like this. In this episode, Michael and Benjamin break down this largely silent visual masterpiece. We explore how Fullerton strips away the "Leprechaun Museum" version of folklore to reveal the gritty, bloody roots of Celtic legend. Join us as we decode the hidden mythological references scattered throughout the book; from the Brown Bull of Cooley to the Dagda, and discuss why this might be the best visual storytelling of the year. In this episode, we cover: Visual Storytelling: How Gavin Fullerton uses silent narrative and cinematic paneling to tell a story of grief and duty.Mythology Decoded: We identify the cameos from Irish Legend, including Queen Maeve, Cú Chulainn (maybe?), The Dagda, and Balor of the Evil Eye.The Vibe: Why this feels like "Dark Souls" meets an apocalyptic end to the Age of Myth.That Dog: Emotional damage and the fate of the protagonist's wolfhound.2026 Reading Schedule: We’ve announced our lineup for the first half of 2026! Get your copies ready: Jan: 100 Bullets, Vol. 1 by Brian Azzarello & Eduardo RissoFeb: Absolute Martian Manhunter, Vol. 1 by Deniz Camp & Javier RodríguezMar: Bone, Vol. 1 by Jeff SmithApr: Ultimate Spider-Man by Jonathan HickmanMay: Assorted Crisis Events by Deniz CamJun: Supergirl: Woman of Tomorrow by Tom King & Bilquis EverlyJoin the Club: We want to hear your thoughts on Tuatha! Did you spot the references to the Red Hand of Ulster? Did you catch the flashback? Join the Discord and read along Read Our Substack Follow us on Instagram Follow us on Tiktok Watch us on Youtube If you enjoyed this episode, please leave us a review on Spotify or Apple Podcasts. It helps more than you know! Time Stamps: 00:00 Introduction to Irish Mythology 00:37 Comic Book Club Overview 02:24 Engage with Us: Join the Discussion 05:22 Deep Dive into Tuatha Comic 07:49 Exploring Irish Mythological References 12:35 The Protagonist's Grim Mission 16:04 Mythical Encounters and Symbolism 29:34 The River Bandits and the Giant Deer 35:04 Irish Mythology and the Gay Bullock 36:09 Action-Packed Battle Scene 37:11 Encounter with WWE Superstar Finn Balor 38:04 The Forgotten God DDA 39:36 A Journey Through Irish Mythology 41:56 The Tragic Death of the Loyal Hound 44:37 A Vigil and a Journey Continues 50:15 Blood Magic and Mythical Struggles 55:48 The Island and the Final Resting Place 57:28 Reflections on Grief and Myth 01:00:25 Upcoming Comic Book Club Reads Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Welcome back to Collecting Issues, the monthly comic book book club! This week, Michael and Benjamin are heading to the Midwest to tackle a modern critical darling: Local Man (Issues #1-13 & #25). Published by Image Comics, Local Man is the 2023 creation of Tim Seeley (Hack/Slash, Grayson) and Tony Fleecs (Stray Dogs). It’s a genre-bending mix of rural noir and 90s superhero pastiche that asks the question: What happens when an "Extreme" era hero gets cancelled and has to move back into his parents' basement? (Spoiler: His parents are very disappointed). Join us as we determine if this book is a deconstruction of the industry or just a chaotic ride. Ben realises "Local Man" is actually a derogatory term for someone who parks on a curb, while Michael tries to figure out if Crossjack is the Hawkeye of the Midwest or just an absolute arsehole. We discuss: Why the first arc feels like The Boys meets Matt Fraction’s Hawkeye—if Hawkeye was a glory-hound who slept with everyone’s wives.The Dual Art Styles: Breaking down the genius flip-flop between Tony Fleecs’ grounded, photo-referenced reality and Tim Seeley’s Rob Liefeld-esque 90s flashbacks (no feet allowed!).The "Image" History Lesson: How the book serves as a love letter (and a tombstone) to the 1992 founding of Image Comics, referencing WildC.A.T.s, Gen13, and the "pouch era."The Inga Problem: The twisty villain arc that left us asking: Is she a Lex Luthor mastermind or just a messy ex?The Verdict: Why we believe Volume 1 is a masterpiece that belongs on your shelf, but why the "cosmic shenanigans" of Arcs 2 & 3 gave the lads "comic book blue balls." Follow the Podcast: Join the Discord and read along Read Our Substack Follow us on Instagram Follow us on Tiktok Watch us on Youtube Time Stamps: 00:00 Introduction to Collecting Issues 00:28 Comic Book Confusion and Local Legends 03:16 Elevator Pitch and Creative Team 05:16 Tim Seeley and Tony Fleecs' Background 16:28 Image Comics and the 90s Influence 20:43 Cross Jack's Return and Character Dynamics 28:44 Villains and Plot Twists 37:26 Inga's Character and Comic's Weaknesses 38:01 Corporate Superheroes and Inga's Role 38:26 Tim Sealey's Influence and Comic Tropes 38:58 Second Arc: Horror and Cult Elements 39:22 Cross Jack's Powers and Fourth Wall Breaking 40:28 Inga's Villainy and Characterisation Issues 43:01 Third Arc: Fetishes and Dream Narratives 43:46 Neon's Confrontation with Inga 45:36 Seascape's Mythical Origins 47:44 Faceless Hoard and Comic Book Tropes 52:33 Comic's Rushed Conclusion and Missed Opportunities 54:08 Tim Sealey's Style and Comic's Inconsistencies 01:02:46 Final Thoughts and Recommendations Next Comic: Tuatha, a new digital release from IDW involving Irish myth and horror by Gavin Fullerton. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Happy Halloween, listeners! This month on Collecting Issues, the monthly comic book book club, Michael and Benjamin skirt the rules to cover an anthology: Come Find Me: An Autumnal Offering. This 2024 one-shot is published by the new, creator-owned DSTLRY Comics. It's an... interesting business model of limited digital runs and resellable digital rights. (Wait, did we just buy an NFT? Is this the blockchain?) Curated by horror maestro Becky Cloonan, Come Find Me is a collection of six chilling mini-stories steeped in folk and medieval horror. Join us as we apply "useful frameworks" (much to Michael's disgust) to break down every tale in this unnerving collection from a lineup of incredible female and non-binary creators. We discuss: "Devil's Trill" (Hamlet Machine): A sexy, weird, and wordless Faustian pact that sets a spectacular gothic tone."Portorium" (Becky Cloonan): A classic tale of grave robbery, Roman gods (hello, Orcus), and why you should never steal from the dead."Down by the Water" (Molly Mendoza): A beautiful, abstract, and unsettling story of gossip, grief, and... frog spawn?"Coal &Clover" (Vanessa R. Del Rey): A straightforward folk horror revenge story set in a brutal American company town. Don't make deals with the Fae!"La Chéta" (Celine Loup): The one that left us scratching our heads. A sketchy, Alpine tale of a sexy widow and... well, we're still not sure."Warmth of the Hunt" (E.M. Carroll): An absolute banger to finish the anthology. A stunning, timeless depiction of the Wild Hunt with tattoo-worthy art.Which stories gave us "oozing dread" and which one was less fright and more...? Follow the Podcast: Join the Discord and read along Read Our Substack Follow us on Instagram Follow us on Tiktok Watch us on Youtube Next Comic:Local Man, a deconstruction of the Big Guns and Pouch era of 90's comics by Tim Seeley and Tony Fleecs Time Stamps: 00:00 Introduction to 'Come Find Me' 01:33 Overview of DSTLRY Comics 04:01 Exploring the Anthology's Themes 04:53 Spotlight on Becky Cloonan 09:03 Diving into 'Devil's Trill' 21:32 Analysis of 'Portorium' 32:04 Molly Mendoza's 'Down by the Water' 36:20 Unraveling the Mystery of the Drowned Lover 38:33 The Grim Trysts and Henry's Dark Secrets 39:54 The Frog Spawn Mystery and Henry's Duality 44:17 Medieval Horror and the Tale of Coal & Clover 44:37 The Dark Art of Vanessa Del Ray 48:57 The Folkloric Influence in Horror Comics 01:04:17 The Wild Hunt and the Art of EM Carroll 01:10:32 Final Thoughts and Upcoming Reads Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Welcome back to Collecting Issues, the comic book book club where this month we're pulling a rabbit out of a hat and diving into Zatanna: Bring Down the House! Join us as we review issues #1-5 of the 2025 DC Black Label series by the incredible team of Mariko Tamaki, Javier Rodriguez, and Hassan Otsmane-Elhaou. Is this spooky, Halloween-adjacent tale a true horror comic or more "spider decoration spooky"? We break down this visually stunning "Year One" style origin story for DC's premier magician. From its unique narrative approach to its mastery of the female gaze, we explore how this comic redefines Zatanna for a new generation. Plus, we have to talk about that impossibly clean, muscular, and croissant-eating John Constantine. Tune in for a breezy, fun, and pop-art-infused discussion that's part comic review, part art appreciation, and part therapy session for our hosts' confused sexualities. In This Episode, We Discuss:The Art of Magic: A deep dive into Javier Rodriguez's spectacular, psychedelic, and masterful visuals. We explore his innovative panel layouts, mastery of colour (including that CMYK flashback style!), and pin-up aesthetic.A Millennial Magician: How Mariko Tamaki's writing transforms Zatanna into a relatable millennial hero grappling with imposter syndrome, parental legacy, and finding her own power.Narrative Tropes & Themes: We tackle the "Chosen One" narrative, the mystery of Zatara's dark past, and whether the story holds up to the incredible artwork.For the Female Gaze?: An exploration of how the comic flips the script on Zatanna's traditionally fetishised character design, creating a powerful and sexy story from a distinctly female perspective.That Constantine Cameo: Was John Constantine's appearance necessary, or did he just show up to ruin a perfectly good lesbian romance? We have thoughts. Follow the Podcast: Join the Discord and read along Read Our Substack Follow us on Instagram Follow us on Tiktok Watch us on Youtube Next Comic:Get ready for Spooktober! We're reading "Come Find Me," an all-female descent into folk horror curated by Becky Cloonan, from the new publisher DSTLLRY. Time Stamps: 00:00 Introduction to Collecting Issues 00:51 Halloween Vibes and Spooky Stories 02:46 Zatanna's Origin and Elevator Pitch 06:51 The Creative Team Behind Zatanna 08:38 Art and Visuals of Zatanna 17:38 Narrative Tropes and Themes 32:27 Zatara's Journey and Characterisation 33:08 Millennial Themes and Imposter Syndrome 33:42 Favourite Sequences and Dialogue 35:20 Zatanna's Struggles and Power Fantasy 37:49 The Phantom Stranger and Magic Councils 42:31 Art Style and Visual Storytelling 51:04 Magic Battles and Demon Designs 58:38 Final Thoughts and Recommendations Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This week on Collecting Issues, we're diving headfirst into the dense, brutal, and brilliant world of 20th Century Men, the six-issue epic from Deniz Camp, Stipan Morian, and Image Comics. It’s an alternate history where the Cold War got much, much hotter, fought with super-soldiers, giant mechs, and broken ideals in the mountains of Afghanistan. WARNING: This is a full-spoiler discussion! We highly recommend you read 20th Century Men #1-6 before listening. Go on, get out of here! Scram! Taste the wilderness... and then come back for the listens. Join us as we unpack this "impenetrable but so worth it" modern classic. We dissect Deniz Camp’s complex, non-linear narrative that jumps through time and perspectives, comparing his style to legends like Alan Moore, Warren Ellis, and Grant Morrison. We also explore Stipan Morian's stunningly varied—and sometimes jarring—artwork, from Frank Frazetta-esque battle scenes to surreal, Bill Plympton-inspired visuals. Is this the best comic of 2025? Is it a spiritual successor to Watchmen? And after all the propaganda, war crimes, and failed utopias, we ask the eternal question: War, huh? What is it good for? Tune in to hear our thoughts on: The Unholy Trinity: A deep dive into the core characters: the crumbling Soviet ideal of The Iron Star, the brutal American imperialism of President Goode, and the human cost embodied by Azra.Artistic Chaos: Why Stipan Morian's shifting art styles are both the comic's greatest strength and its most challenging feature.Deconstructing History: How the comic uses superheroes to explore the real-world horrors and myth-making of the Soviet-Afghan War.Legendary Influences: We discuss the heavy shades of Planetary, The Authority, and Watchmen that run through this series.The Best and Worst of Humanity: From the terrifying super-soldier Six Bill to the tragic journalist Kyril, we break down the unforgettable supporting cast.If you love politically charged, artistically ambitious comics that challenge you at every turn, this is an episode you can't afford to miss. Time Stamps: 00:00 Introduction to 20th Century Men 00:49 Comic Book Spoilers Ahead! 02:46 The Complexity of War in Comics 12:07 Art and Storytelling in 20th Century Men 16:32 Character Analysis: Heroes and Anti-Heroes 27:37 The Symbolism of the Collected Man 33:56 Side Stories and Paradise 34:10 Azra's Practical Paradise 34:56 John Rambo's Disruption 35:04 Thomas Goode's American Supremacy 36:09 Time Jumps and Narrative Techniques 39:13 Art and Visuals in Comics 43:15 Character Perspectives and Artistic Styles 50:54 The Human Toll of War 55:41 Modern Political Crises and Myth Making 01:07:54 Spooky Season Recommendations Follow the Podcast: Join the Discord and read along Read Our Substack Follow us on Instagram Follow us on Tiktok Watch us on Youtube Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This week on Collecting Issues, we step into the ring for Do a Powerbomb! (issues #1-7), the 2023 masterpiece from Daniel Warren Johnson and Mike Spicer for Image Comics. Get ready for a cosmic slobberknocker that's one part The Wrestler, one part Dragon Ball Z, and all parts heartbreaking, kinetic action. Join us as we continue our Daniel Warren Johnson odyssey and explore why he's one of the most exciting creators in comics today. We discuss the series' surprising emotional core, a journey of grief and family set against the backdrop of an interdimensional wrestling tournament. We'll break down the concept of kayfabe, the incredible splash pages, the shocking twists, and why this comic is a true love letter to pro wrestling and its fans. MAJOR SPOILER WARNING! We cover the entire story from the first bell to the final, emotional finish. We highly recommend reading the comic before listening. In this episode, we discuss: The unique blend of high-octane action and devastating emotional stakes.How Daniel Warren Johnson's kinetic art and page layouts capture the motion of wrestling like never before.The themes of family, loss, and what it means to "lick the mats for the fans."The shocking character reveals, the incredible tournament matchups, and the absolutely wild ending where our heroes wrestle God. Time Stamps: 00:00 Introduction to 'Do a Power Bomb' 00:44 Comic Book Education and Daniel Warren Johnson 01:21 Wrestling and Comic Book Crossovers 02:20 Plot Overview and Themes 05:08 Spoilers and Wrestling Terminology 07:13 Art and Visuals in 'Do a Power Bomb' 10:04 Daniel Warren Johnson's Wrestling Journey 13:23 Emotional Depth and Character Arcs 20:51 Wrestling Tropes and Realism 32:04 The Big Twist and Its Impact 35:44 The Evolution of Wrestling: From Extreme to PG Era 36:45 The Art of Wrestling: Capturing Kinetic Moments 40:05 Iconic Wrestling Photography: Geoff Winningham's Legacy 43:12 Wrestling's Emotional and Physical Toll 48:23 The Cosmic Scale of Wrestling: Wrestling God 01:04:26 Final Thoughts and Upcoming Episodes Follow the Podcast: Join the Discord and read along Read Our Substack Follow us on Instagram Follow us on Tiktok Watch us on Youtube Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

his week on Collecting Issues, we're opening the archives to bring you our classic deep dive into Kingdom Come, the legendary 1996 DC Elseworlds series by Mark Waid and Alex Ross. Originally recorded in March 2021, this episode is as relevant as ever. Join Mick and Ben as they explore how Kingdom Come served as a powerful critique of the '90s comic book "dark age"—an era defined by pouches, excessive violence, and gritty anti-heroes like Cable and Deadpool. We dissect the clash between a new, reckless generation of superhumans, led by the aggressive Magog, and the return of DC's classic icons like Superman, Batman, and Wonder Woman, who come out of retirement to restore order and meaning to the word "hero." In This Episode, We Discuss: The Twilight of the Hero: What was happening in '90s comics that prompted Waid and Ross to create Kingdom Come?The Art of Gods: An analysis of Alex Ross's iconic, painted art style. Is it timeless iconography, or has its realism dated?Clash of the Titans: We break down some of the most memorable moments, including the legendary battle between a world-weary Superman and a brainwashed Shazam (Captain Marvel).A Controversial Take: Was Wonder Woman done dirty? We examine her characterisation as a ruthless warmonger and the villain of the piece.Enduring Legacy: How Kingdom Come drew inspiration from stories like Watchmen and Squadron Supreme and went on to influence comics like Civil War and video games like Injustice. Time Stamps: 00:00 Introduction to the Episode 00:43 Overview of Kingdom Come 02:17 The Dark Ages of 90s Comics 05:08 Alex Ross and the Realistic Consequences of Superheroes 05:59 The Distinction Between Marvel and DC 07:03 Norman McKay and the Framing Narrative 09:16 The Twilight of the Classic Heroes 09:53 The Rise of the New Anti-Heroes 15:17 The Big Superhero Showdown 19:16 The Aftermath and Conclusion 20:38 Nonstop Motion: The Hero's Relentless Journey 21:19 Wonder Woman's Controversial Portrayal 24:40 The Art of Alex Ross 28:48 Influences and Comparisons Follow the Podcast: Join the Discord and read along Read Our Substack Follow us on Instagram Follow us on Tiktok Watch us on Youtube Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode of Collecting Issues, we blast off into Marvel’s cosmic corners to discuss Beta Ray Bill: Argent Star – Collecting issues #1–5 of Daniel Warren Johnson and Mike Spicer’s 2021 miniseries. This listener-recommended pick follows fan-favourite, horse-faced hero Beta Ray Bill on a heavy-metal space odyssey of broken hammers, busted pride, and one very big sword. We cover it all: How Argent Star fits into Marvel continuity after Thor: Prey.Wrestling moves in space (yes, suplexes included).The tragic humour of Bill’s journey and refusal to grow.Scuttlebutt’s role as both sentient starship and scene-stealer.The gorgeous kinetic art style of Daniel Warren Johnson & Mike Spicer – and its heavy-metal album cover vibes.Is this the most metal Marvel comic ever? Does Bill ever truly find himself? And why is Argent Star the perfect example of a “quest for all the wrong reasons”? Whether you’re a Thor comics veteran, a Daniel Warren Johnson fan, or new to Marvel’s stranger side, this spoiler-filled review is your ticket to one of the most unique cosmic adventures in recent comics. The Thor Prey Episode Time Stamps: 00:00 Introduction to Beta Ray Bill: Argent Star 00:21 Comic Book Education and Podcast Dynamics 01:02 Beta Ray Bill's Space Odyssey 02:42 Listener Recommendations and Social Media Shoutouts 04:45 Beta Ray Bill's Struggles and Motivations 10:54 The Hero's Journey and Weapon Quest 17:27 Scuttlebutt and Beta Ray Bill's Transformation 23:37 The Transformation of Flat Face Bill 24:01 Bar Encounters and Alien Reactions 25:08 Artistic Impressions and Comparisons 29:10 Wrestling Moves and Comic Influences 31:21 Exploring the Nine Realms 33:42 Character Designs and Inspirations 35:28 Scuttlebutt and Heavy Metal Imagery 42:47 Final Showdown and Reflections Follow the Podcast: Join the Discord and read along Read Our Substack Follow us on Instagram Follow us on Tiktok Watch us on Youtube Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This week on Collecting Issues, we’re talking about The One Hand and The Six Fingers—two five-issue series from Image Comics (2024) by Ram V, Dan Watters, Laurence Campbell, Sumit Kumar, Lee Loughridge, and Tom Muller. Set in the gritty, retro-future city of Neo Novena, these stories unfold from two perspectives: a weary detective facing a familiar case on the eve of retirement, and a brilliant student who wakes up with memories of a murder. What starts as a ritual killing slowly unspools into something much stranger—where nothing is real, everything loops, and the world might just be a cage. We’re talking: Murder, glyphs, and glitching cogsNoir tropes used with purpose—not ironyRobots doing people jobs, people thinking like machinesHow these two comics were written in conversation, not collaborationThe big existential ending (and why it works)If you like Blade Runner, The Matrix, Memento, or Dark City, this one’s worth your time. But seriously—read the comics before listening. It’s impossible to talk about them properly without giving things away. Time Stamps: 00:00 Introduction to 'The One Hand and the Six Fingers' 01:13 Spoiler Alert: Read Before Listening 01:30 Engaging with the Audience 04:22 Plot Overview: The Future and Parallel Stories 05:00 Detective Ari Nasser's Last Case 05:49 Johannes Vale's Mysterious Journey 07:04 Creative Teams and Artistic Styles 08:08 The Noir Aesthetic and Setting 10:09 The Mystery Deepens 30:54 Existential Revelations and The Matrix 38:14 Literary Influences and Themes 40:01 Post-Capitalist Themes and Inspirations 40:42 Philosophy Bites and Post-Work Societies 42:17 The Sunset Limited and Philosophical Debates 43:05 Comic Book Collaboration and Glyph System 47:27 Art and Visuals in the Comic 59:20 Character Analysis and Stereotypes 01:04:18 Final Thoughts and Upcoming Reads Follow the Podcast: Join the Discord and read along Read Our Substack Follow us on Instagram Follow us on Tiktok Watch us on Youtube Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode of Collecting Issues, we dive headfirst into Thor: Prey, collecting issues #7–14 of Donny Cates’ 2020 run with art by Nic Klein, colours by Matthew Wilson, and covers by Olivier Coipel. This mythic, messy, and often horrifying arc explores what happens when the forgotten alter ego, Donald Blake, returns—with a scalpel and a grudge. We break down: How Thor: Prey explores the consequences of playing GodThe madness of Donald Blake and his eerie transformationThe best-ever comic book appearance of Throg, Frog of ThunderMythology, body horror, and the absurd brilliance of modern Thor comicsNic Klein’s stunning panel work and Matthew Wilson’s dimensional colour artistryPlus, we unpack why Thor might be the most unfixably broken character in comics—and why that makes him so damn fun. Whether you’re here for frogs with hammers, cosmic serial killers, or simply to ask “Where the hell is Donald Blake?”, you’re in the right place. 00:00 Introduction to Thor Prey 02:13 Creative Team and Art Style 04:29 Publication Context and Thor's Journey 07:10 Thor's Identity and Worthiness 08:26 Donald Blake's Return 10:01 Thor's Legacy and Influence 26:02 Monthly Comics and Storytelling 33:31 The Power of Throg 34:06 Throg's Epic Battle 37:24 Donald Blake's Transformation 40:32 Norse Mythology in Comics 45:56 The Madness of Donald Blake 53:35 Art and Color in Comics 58:27 Final Thoughts and Wrap-Up Follow the Podcast: Join the Discord and read along Read our essay on the Perfect Panel in Thor Prey on Substack Follow us on Instagram Follow us on Tiktok Watch us on Youtube Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode of Collecting Issues, Michael and Benjamin break down 8 Billion Genies, the complete 8-issue limited series from Image Comics by Charles Soule and Ryan Browne. What if every person on Earth was suddenly given a genie and one wish? This high-concept comic explores the global and personal chaos that follows—and we’re diving into all of it. From the explosive first eight seconds to the profound implications of the final wish, this episode explores themes of desire, power, world-building, and the consequences of getting exactly what you want. The hosts compare it to works by Robert Kirkman and Alan Moore, discuss the structure and visual style of the comic, and reflect on how this series delivers big ideas in a tightly-paced, character-driven format. Topics include: The wish-making mechanic and its implicationsRyan Browne’s distinctive art and design of the geniesThe storytelling technique of exponential time jumpsCultural commentary, character arcs, and final twistsPerfect for fans of speculative fiction, creator-owned comics, and smart sci-fi storytelling, this episode offers a thoughtful (and often hilarious) deep dive into one of Image Comics’ most creative modern titles. Time Stamps: 00:00 Introduction to 8 Billion Genies 01:28 Premise of 8 Billion Genies 01:51 Comparisons and Commentary 02:50 Podcast Promotion and Support 05:14 Genies and Their Personalities 09:05 Creators and Their Works 13:08 World Building and Rules 30:26 Character Arcs and Tragedies 38:21 The Dougland People and Human Cycles 39:00 The Wish-Making Mechanic 40:13 The Eternal Witness and World Building 42:13 The Zhiang Family Arc 44:42 Daisy's Development and Character Arcs 47:40 Themes of Desire and Control 59:59 The Final Wish and Conclusion Follow the Podcast: Join the Discord and read along Join the Substack Follow us on Instagram Follow us on Tiktok Watch us on Youtube Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Join the Discord and read along In this very first From the Archives episode of Collecting Issues, we go back to where it all began with our 2022 discussion of Kraven’s Last Hunt, the seminal Spider-Man story by J.M. DeMatteis and Mike Zeck. Originally published across The Amazing Spider-Man, Spectacular Spider-Man, and Web of Spider-Man in 1987, this dark, introspective arc sees Kraven the Hunter bury Spider-Man alive, assume his identity, and face off against the terrifying sewer-dweller Vermin. We look at the story’s gothic almost Russian literature-esque tone, its place in the evolution of superhero comics, and its heavy literary and psychological themes—including a breakdown of its Freudian structure, Blakean symbolism, and bleak commentary on identity and mortality. Plus, we revisit how this tale reshaped Kraven as a complex villain—and how its impact still echoes today. Find out as we awkwardly stumble through one of Marvel’s most unforgettable arcs—with all the chaotic podcast energy of our earliest recordings. Topics include: Fearful symmetry and William Blake’s “The Tyger”The evolution of Kraven the Hunter1980s New York and its influence on comic storytellingThe black suit and its darker legacyInner monologues galoreCheek touching, grave digging, and sewer monsters 00:00 Introduction and Overview 03:56 Correcting the Record: Spider-Man Series Clarification 04:22 The Unique Structure of Kraven's Last Hunt 06:56 Reading Experience and Graphic Novel Format 08:03 1980s Vibes and Comparisons to Batman 11:46 Freudian Psychology in Spider-Man 15:29 The Shocking Suicide in Comics 16:36 Kraven's Return and Downgrade 22:30 Kraven's Last Hunt: Themes and Inspirations April's Comic Book Club Pick: Eight Billion Genies by Charles Soule and Ryan Browne! Join the Discord and read along Join the Substack Follow us on Instagram Follow us on Tiktok Watch us on Youtube Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Welcome back to Collecting Issues – the comic book book club podcast – and our first episode of the year (even if it is March, don’t @ us). This month, we’re diving deep into one of the most iconic and influential superhero stories of all time: Daredevil: Born Again – collecting issues #227 to #233 from the 1986 Daredevil run, written by Frank Miller and drawn by David Mazzucchelli. In this extended breakdown, we take a long, winding look at the dismantling and resurrection of Matt Murdock, the defining portrayal of the Kingpin as a true menace, and the raw, uncompromising misery that Miller lathers onto every page. From gritty noir influences to intense Catholic imagery (and a nun who may or may not be Matt’s mammy), we discuss the themes, legacy, and visuals of this masterwork – all while occasionally slandering Foggy Nelson and wondering what the hell Nuke is doing here. We also cover: The real golden age of Daredevil (hint: not the 1930s)Karen Page’s tragic arc and women in 1980s comicsThe influence of Miller’s crime storytelling and cinematic layoutsA very sweaty Kingpin in Speedos beating up six ladsWhat happens when a Daredevil comic becomes a Captain America comicShared universe highs and lowsAnd why Frank Miller definitely, absolutely, maybe just hates joyPlus, we ask the big questions: Did Miller create the heavy render era or just ride the wave? Is this still the definitive Daredevil story? And why won’t Foggy just stop being the worst? This is a bumper episode, so get comfy, roll your eyes at how miserable it all is, and join us for one of the bleakest but most brilliant stories in superhero history. If you’ve got thoughts on Born Again or just want to shout at us for our hot takes, join the Collecting Issues Discord (link below) and let us know. Don’t forget to subscribe, rate, and share – and stay tuned for next month’s pick: Eight Billion Genies by Charles Soule and Ryan Browne! 00:00 Introduction to Collecting Issues 00:38 Podcast Banter and Updates 00:56 Comic Book Discussions and Recommendations 03:34 Introduction to Daredevil: Born Again 04:35 Frank Miller's Influence on Daredevil 07:00 Daredevil's Origin and Evolution 10:26 Frank Miller's Artistic Style 16:06 Born Again: Plot and Themes 32:13 David Mazzucchelli's Art in Born Again 38:22 Frank Miller's Complex Relationship with Women 39:01 Karen Page: The Fallen Woman Archetype 39:33 MAGA Hats and Modern Politics 40:23 Catholicism in Daredevil's Narrative 44:03 The Dismantling of Matt Murdock 51:28 Kingpin's Menacing Presence 58:23 Nuke and the Military Industrial Complex 01:11:22 Final Thoughts and Reflections Join the Discord and read along Join the Substack Follow us on Instagram Follow us on Tiktok Watch us on Youtube Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Doom Endures: A look into Marvel's Doom #1 Giant-Sized One Shot In this episode of Collecting Issues, the Monthly Comic Book Book Club reviews 'Doom Number One Giant Sized One Shot' by Jonathan Hickman and Sanford Greene. Hosts Michael and Benjamin discuss the complex character of Doctor Doom, the epic narrative, and the stunning artwork. They explore the connections between this comic and previous works by Hickman, the depiction of Galactus, and the comic's tribute to MF Doom. The episode also touches on the broader Marvel Universe, featuring appearances from numerous Marvel characters, and delves into the influence and legacy of Doctor Doom in both the comic and pop culture. Join in for a comprehensive discussion packed with humour, deep insights, and a love for all things comic book-related. 00:00 Introduction to Collecting Issues 00:07 Overview of Doom Number One 01:41 Jonathan Hickman and Sanford Greene's Collaboration 03:37 Sanford Greene's Inspiration and Love for Doctor Doom 04:10 Doctor Doom: Marvel's Batman 05:50 MF Doom and His Connection to Doctor Doom 11:01 The History and Evolution of Doctor Doom 23:45 Galactus: The Silent Annihilator 25:59 Epic Battles and Artistic Brilliance 31:02 Dr. Doom's Magical Transformation 31:54 Valeria's War Armour for Doom 32:26 Galactus and the Cosmic Threat 35:40 Marvel's Cosmic Showdown 48:16 Doom's Final Monologue and Conclusion 50:37 Final Thoughts and Wrap-Up Join the Discord and read along Join the Substack Follow us on Instagram Follow us on Tiktok Watch us on Youtube Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.