The Creator Chronicles – BILL SIENKIEWICZ dvd

I’m more about comic book writers, than comic book artists, yet there has been one artist who I have always gravitated towards, and that’s Bill Sienkiewicz.

One of the first comic books I ever bought was Star Wars #92, which featured his wonderful front cover painting. New Mutants was one of my favorite comic books, growing up in the 1980s, and Senkiewicz run wild with his imaginative, provocative and unique covers and interior artwork.

This DVD by Woodcrest Productions presents an interview with Sienkiewicz, in which he details his early years in the business working on Moon Knight, artistic influences and enthusiasm for the medium. Bill reveals that music has been a big influence and inspiration for his work, even though his tastes are very eclectic. I was delighted when he mention his interest in manga, specifically Uzumaki.

So, what does this DVD offer that podcast interviews can’t? Well, the visuals to go with what the creator is talking about is incredibly helpful, but seeing the artist passionately speak of his work adds an extra level of appreciation for their work.

Running Time: 105 mins, Video: NTSC, widescreen enhanced 1.85, all-region. US$24.95

Special Features: Audio Commentary by the director, 20 minute interview with creator Nathan Massengill (who’s been working in the comic book industry since the early 1990s and is best known for inking), previews of other Creator Chronicles DVDs (includes George Pérez, Mike Golden).

8 out of 10.

RED SONJA volume 4 “Animals and More”

RED SONJA volume 4 “Animals & More” hardcover collects issues 19 to 24 of Dynamite Entertainment’s ongoing series.

Issues 19 to 21 present the “Animals” storyline, in which Sonja and her crew ventures into a kingdom ruled by animals, with the Lion-human breed the rulers of all on the land. Issues 22 to 24 is the “The Long Way Home” arc, whereby a voyage on the seas brings Sonja up against a whale god.

Despite two distinct story arcs, the series flows brilliantly without interruption. In fact, even by the end, there is enough loose threads to suggest a couple more storylines to come in the future. Among that, Kulan Gath’s reign of terror spreads further throughout the known lands, and an inevitable showdown with Red Sonja looms.

I enjoyed the “The Long Way Home” issues greatly, with the underwater action truly sensational, and the art by Homs flawless.

The bonus at the back of the hardcover is the reprinting of all the covers, including variants, from these issues. A cavalcade of different styles and fantastic splash pages from a superb variety of the industry’s best artists.

This is one of the best comic book series being printed today, Dynamite Entertainment pay true respect to the character, it’s a golden time for lovers of Red Sonja.

8 out of 10.