Shannon Chenoweth
03-27-2006, 08:47 PM
Ok, here you go all those asking for this. Took me like 4-5 hours to do this. So, I won't be doing the next ones. Maybe one of you might do them? Heh.
Anyway, I know I misspelled some names of the artists, so if anyone knows how to spell the names correctly, please let me know. Thx.
Q: After the Collective and Civil War, which villains can we expect to see in New Avengers? How about a new Masters of Evil?
A: I'm cooking a brand new Ultron...I'm cooking a new Masters of Evil...I think that Elektra being in charge of the Hand is to be dealt with. And also, which villains will be taking advantage of the Civil War...um, the heroes are fighting each other and what are the villains doing? And so maybe some of the villains will join the Civil War to take this opportunity to switch sides. There's going to be a lot of mastination going on.
Q: Is there a shot we'll see John Romita Jr. do an arc on New Avengers?
A: I would love that. I've talked to John for years about doing something together. He's busy with Eternals and New Avengers is booked for at least the next year and a half, so I don't think right now...but, I would jump at the chance.
Q: This is great news, Mr. Bendis, and congrats on working with one of my TOP favorite artists, Marc Silvestri. Looks like I'll be buying something of yours soon and having no choice but to love it.
I do have a question for you, and I'm not sugar coating it. This is your exact quote from the Daredevil DVD when talking about the 90's when pinup artists ruled comics.
"I was actually working at a comic store during this period. I was in college and I was working in a comic store and people would come up and not remember if they bought a particular issue, and it was like 5 dollars an issue, and they'd be like (did I buy this?), and I'm like wow...if I took 5 dollars off you and slapped you, you'd remember. You know, so, and I'm ...well, their not having any kind of experience, you know, not a REAL experience."
My question is this. How is this any different than your decompression stuff? While people might remember the story arc, a common complaint against this type of writing is that "nothing happened" in certain issues of the arc, so isn't that EXACTLY the same as having no experience like your comments directed toward the pinup artist days?
A: I actually don't see..first of all, I don't see my work as decompressed. I know that's a term that's been used to describe work by me and Warren Ellis and some other people. I don't sit there and go, here's an 11 page story, let's see how far I can stretch it. In fact, if anything, I feel I've crammed the issue full of stuff as we talked about in our last podcast. I would never in my life write something that I, that was half a story or less than what I would consider be worth the time that... the story's just being told differently. And, what you may not be getting in as many scenes, or as many words, hopefully you're getting something more. You're getting more subtext, you're getting more character moments, you're getting ideas, observations and the time taken to express those ideas and observations that you weren't getting in comics before, or you don't get in a lot of comics today. So, that's my feeling about it. I sit with the script for months before I even hand it in and make some hard decisions about whether I think this is worth anybody's money. Sometimes junk a whole storyline or junk a whole direction because I go, you know what, that's not worth people's time or money. I don't care what I think I'm doing, it's not worth someone's two dollars.
It's that hidden magic of storytelling, it's like making music or anything, it's all intangible. It's gotta be my instincts, all said and done. After I hand it in, I have to listen to the feedback from my editors, and take it under serious consideration. There's a script I just handed in where a lot of people read it and everybody got the same note unrelated to knowing that anyone else had said it. That was to take my third scene and make it my first scene. And, everyone gave me the same note, it was hilarious. I would be ridicious not to take that note and to apply it. It's not about me and my glorious words, and the magic that is me, it's about telling a story the best way it can be told. Making sure the people are enjoying themselves as much as possible.
Q: I won't get into the "boom...there's the shot" comments, but if I did, I'd be asking how you justify New Avengers #16 and it's gazillion splash pages.
A: Absolutely, I can justify it. When you have an artist like McNiven, you have a story that is taking a complete different direction than the book has been told, ahead of time I thought that the uses of the splash pages..and to tell that particular story was absolutely the best way to do it. I handed it in to everyone I work with and I said, is this gonna work...and I said to Steve, do you want to do this? He could have easily said, dude what are you doing? He completely got it and when I saw the files in the fourteen different steps that you see them, which is layout, pencil and ink, coloring...I was like, this will completely work. I could have easily gone back in and written something on top of those even after, but I thought they did work to the point if I had written something on top of them, I would have yanked it off because I thought the images were perfect. Now, some people read it and loved it, they spent time on the images, really kind of embraced the artwork, kinda almost felt the almost supernatural explosion of it. And others just flipped through the comic really fast and judged their entertainment value versus how many words they read. It's funny like, whose critique is more valid, the guy who liked it or the guy who didn't like it? I think about this all the time. There's one guy who came up to me in L.A. and didn't realize you could even do that with a comic book. He liked the nine panel grid and that's all he ever gets out of comics and when he sees a new idea expressed, a new way of achieving a scene, that he never thought could be done or never thought of doing before, he as a fledling comic book writer or artist was kinda amazed and really made him sit down and think about the page. That's what I do all day, I think about the page and what the page can do. I also think it's funny because it's like the least thing you'd expect from me. I thought that on it's own was worth telling the story that way.
Q: I was wondering if you were going to be using any ideas or stories from the Spider-Woman: Agent of Shield series you and Rick Mays were going to do, in the new Spider-Woman series?
A: I looked at that stuff and some of it I used in Elektra and some of it I in other places and the rest of it just wasn't that good. I'm a different writer now.
Q: You've said that Spider-Woman has one of the best costumes in comics. I was wondering why the change in her costume for the Spider-Woman: Agent of Shield series. I saw some of the redesigns that Mays did where the costume was a bit different and was just curious why you guys were gonna change it.
A: We weren't, that was just Rick taking some ideas out for a spin, he was just playing with it. None of that was originally for publication. Those were just sketches.
Q: Do you still ever have the time, or opportunity, to get out and visit comic shops? Especially the homier, more fan friendly, smaller shops. What do you think that the industry (mainly the big 2) should/or even can do to help small-town comic shops stay afloat, as these type of shops are disappearing way too regularly.
Oh, and is your wife home and can you have her pick up the phone just to yell at you for something? I'm sure you need to be yelled at for SOMETHING.
A: Oh yeah, every Wednesday. I was just in a store today, or yesterday...yeah, I get my comics every Wednesday like everybody else. If I'm in a new town and there's a comic shop nearby, I'll always stop by and just say "hi" and meet the retailers and see what the stores are looking like. As much as it's important to get your book on the shelf, it's actually kinda interesting to see what your book looks like on the shelf in the different places. I live in Portland where independent comics thrive to a level where you could fool yourself that that's what it's like all over the world, when you look at sales charts and you see that's not the case. There are certain comics that I know at Excalibur Comics where I shop, he tells me that the number one Marvel book is a book that's not even in the top 100. It's just the completely opposite to what the world is. It's important to get out and see what it's like in different parts of the world, or in different parts of the country.
The only thing (small-town shops) can do is put out the best product they can put out and get information to the retailer telling them what that product is and who we think they can sell it to and why we're making it. There are guys at Marvel that do this exceptionally well, Dave Gigle and John Dokes, do an exceptional job at getting that done. Once you do that, how much responsiblity can the company take, you know?
(2nd part of question- re: his wife) Ha ha, I'm sure she would, she's actually not home tonight. That's why I have time to do the podcast. She is elsewhere, where I am meeting her in two days.
Q: Any plans to visit the Seattle area anytime soon? (Since I know you had other places to be for Emerald City Con)
A: Not right away, but it's a hop, skip and a jump, so not impossible.
Q: Now that your long-time dream of working with Howard Chaykin is finally coming true, who is the next artist on your fantasy roster you'd most like to work with?
A: Oh, there's a list. Sternako, Milo Manara, Dave Stevens, Inkeepa Lau, Walt Simonson...list goes on and on.
Q: Do you want to eat Tom DeFalco's brains?
A: Hehe...no.
Q: Ghostbustas, wadaya want?
Seriously, what character or group that you previously haven't written would you want to tackle if given one, just ONE, GN to tell your story?
A: Ah...well, the Champions and Defenders have always been interesting to me.
Q: You love Avengers Annual 10. I love Avengers Annual 10. We all love Avengers Annual 10. So when we gonna see Carol Danvers put the smackdown on Rogue in New Avengers? Who cares if it's been done before? Who remembers? You know you want to write it Bendis. Write it, damn you! Write it!
Or something else. Whatever. I am hopelessly compelled to buy all your books in any event.
A: Well, she did that in X-Men years ago, didn't she? Didn't she blow Rogue right out of the mansion with one punch into the sky or something. I believe it's been done because Walt Simonson drew it many years ago.
Q: In Ultimate Spider-Man we've seen Boomerang, Shocker, and Killer Shrike. In the last issue we got both the Vulture and the Tinkerer. In the preview for the next issue we get Ringer. Does this mean we're going to see an Ultimate Secret War? I think that would be hilarious.
A: No.
Q: A while ago, you asked the board for ideas for an artist for a project (a second time, after the Luna Bros). Did anything come of that?
A: I did after the Luna brothers? I don't remember doing that.
Q: One last thing, what happened at the Writers panel in NYC? I got shut out becuase I was unaware it was an advance ticketing event and I've heard it was amazing.
A: It was amazing. It was one of the best panels I've ever been on. It was me, Tom DeFalco, JM Demattis, Denny O'Neil, Chris Claremont, and I had not met any of these people before except Chris Claremont. We were introducing ourselves and all of a sudden, Tom DeFalco who the night before at a panel was equally shot out of a cannon, grabbed the microphone and says 'hi, I'm Tom DeFalco and I hate these kids today, they write comics like the radio plays. Comics aren't radio plays. They're actions and explosions, and drama." I'm like holy crap. I could see there was a lot of guys from my board in the room and it was standing room only. It was kinda weird that he would just lay off like that, and he was completely serious. He hands the microphone to me and I said, can I respond to that? And he goes, "I wasn't talking about you," to be funny. I expressed what I just expressed earlier that I don't think there is any right or wrong way to make a comic, and that not enough people are pushing the medium as hard as they could, even in mainstream comics. In fact, especially in mainstream comics gave us an obligation to go further with it and to try stuff. Maybe you'll fall on your butt, maybe you'll do twelve pages of pinups and someone will want to kill you, but at least you're trying new things that are story related. And I really think about all the comics that I love, there are always comics that try something new and I really think that's magical. But at the same time, the traditions of the medium, the traditions of Marvel Comics, of mainstream comics are important and if people want to express their comments that way, great. But I just don't see why someone would get bent out of shape about someone trying something new. Then, Denny O'Neil asked for the microphone. I'm like, oh boy...I thought he's just going to hammer me right? He grabs the microphone and says, "let me tell you something, when I wrote Green Arrow back in 1960 blah blah blah, people said to me that's not how you write a comic book. And, I would look at them and say, I'm just trying to write a comic book. I'm telling you Tom, I'm telling you right now, there's that kid sitting over there, and he's making a comic and there's people out there buying that comic, and that comic's a hit comic...you're sitting there going I don't know why, then you're too old! You're too old to be making comics and you should leave!" I was like whoa, the place went nuts and it was great. It was like the first five minutes of the panel, it didn't start yet, it was crazy. I was just so grateful that someone who I admire so much just wasn't going to hammer my face... and so yeah the whole weekend I hear from people, that was an awesome panel! I was generally thrilled because sometimes you go to those panels and it's just like paint drying, it's no one's fault but you're own. But, I love talking about this, and it was good theater.
Q: Will Peter and Mary ever go on a nice date? Maybe next year when a ultimate I heart marvel book comes out?
A: Suuurree.
Q: So from what I hear, you'll be cellebrating 100 issues of USM with one big epic thingy that'll go from issue 97 all the way to 102. As I'm sure you already know, there'll be a lot of people using issue 100 as a jumping point. So did you write that particular issue in a way that new readers won't be lost? Is the big arc more like two arcs, pre-100 and post-100?
A: Jumping on or jumping off? It's a big arc and it's being told the way it's gotta be told. Every issue you've got to believe is someone's first issue or someone's last issue and you have to write it accordingly. It's the clone saga and it's big (the arc).
Q: Are you planning on creating any new African American characters for marvel? With the great way you that you write Luke Cage minus the ignorant stereotypes are you working on any other Black characters?
A: I have no answer. You don't go in planning that I'm going and now I'm going to create a black person. You create a character and they flesh themselves out. If you said there's not enough black people in Marvel Comics, it would come off so shallow and so fake. So, it's gotta come from a much more natural place.
Q: Any chance of getting Marc "One of the most amazingly talented and criminally underrated writers today, and your good buddy" Andreyko over to Marvel anytime soon? He's an outstanding talent that I really don't think DC seems to appreciate enough, and one of the nicest guys I've had the pleasue of interacting with (he was kind enough to let me send him some Manhunters to sign for my store to help promote the book, signed my buddie's Torso trade, and mailed it all back to me, even paying the return postage, and the best part, he seemed genuwinely excited to do so) Marvel needs this guy. So do it Bendis, talk to Marc, and bring his cute lil ass over to the House Of Ideas, where he belongs.
A: I have no idea why he's not at Marvel and I agree, it's criminal. I clearly think the world of Marc and his writing, and I think Marvel would be a much better place with him in it. You gotta find the right project, you know what I mean? It's gotta be the right thing. It can't be any old thing. Like, there's Mike Oeming who found the right niche for himself at Marvel in a huge way. It's facinating almost how perfect he is for the books that he's writing.
Q:What do you think it is that makes you enjoy Opie & Anthony (and XM Radio in general) so much more than that crappy company Sirius and their idiot king Howard Stern? O&A PARTY ROCK, my friend.
A: Well, I gotta tell you, Opie and Anthony are the true originals in radio. I mean, they were the first guys to look at Howard Stern and say I'm going to do exactly what he does and then bash the crap out of him after you steal all of his ideas. And call him a liar and a thief. No one else thought to do that, they were the first guys to do that, so bravo to them. I wish them the best of luck and their eight fans.
Q: Big changes coming to New Avengers after Civil War. That's fine and all. But are we ever going to see the full "New Avengers" team do some shit together? I mean one full mission or whatever where we actually have The Sentry, Cap, Iron Man, Luke, Spider-Man, Wolverine, Ronin, and Spider-Woman?
Because... uhhh... we haven't. And I'd like to. To have that. From you. As a writer. To me. The reader. Of your comics.
A: Yeah, as a collective, the big arc that is going on now and in about a month and a half you get the New Avengers Annual which is a complete team kicking someone's butt thing too. So, you have a couple more adventures before the whole thing goes to hell.
Q: Are there any plans for Powers action figures?
A: I gotta tell ya, I would love Powers action figures. Nobody has approached us. There are books that sell, and I'm not bragging or bashing anyone. There are books that sell a 3rd of what we sell that have complete lines of action figures. We have like fifty characters and no action figures. I would love it. We're completely ready to sell out but there's no one buying. We were ready to sell out years ago, but no one was buying.
Q: Spider-Man hardcovers are going to come out forever, right? I'm collecting USM in HC only, and I would just cry if they stopped somewhere along the way.
A: I believe they are doing really well and they just went back to print on a couple. So, I'm assuming we're good to go for awhile.
Q; Is this list still correct?
USM#91- 95 DEADPOOL
USM#96- 103 THE PARKER LEGACY
USM#104- 110 MYSTERIO
USM#111- 116 NEW VILLIAN
USM#117- 122 BLADE.
If not, what does the new USM line up look like?
A: No.
#91-95 DEADPOOL
#96-97 MORBIUS
#98- 103 THE PARKER LEGACY
Then THE DEATH OF THE GOBLIN, BLADE and MYSTERIO. We're still cooking new villains.
Q: Does your wife read the board and does she ever have to smack you upside the head and remind you you're not really the rock star we treat you as?
A: First of all, it's funny that you guys think you treat me like a rock star, if you treat rock stars by going, "hey!" House of M sucks and you write too many words...she doesn't read the board unless I point something out to her that I think she's find funny. She's too busy on some Battlestar Galactica board or whatever.
Q: Wouldn't you like to write a Power Man and Iron Fist comic drawn by David Mazzucchelli? He told me he would draw it if you would only ask him to.
Or maybe I just dreamt that. Or made it up.
Anyway. If you write Power Man and Iron Fist and get David Mazuzuchelli to draw it, I will give you a dollar. David Mazzucchelli really oughta draw something, doncha think?
A: Oh, well that's not true because I've asked him to do stuff and he's said no. We wanted to do a piece in DD #50 and he wouldn't do it. So, I don't think he'll be doing anything. Very disappointed we couldn't get him on Daredevil.
Q: Don't you think that Kirkman is a fantastic author who should write Ultimate Spider-Man?
A: No. I think he's a fantastic author who should only write zombies. He should be pigeon-holed as the zombie guy in comics to the point where he starts drinking and that's it for him.
Q: Will we see Monn Knight joining an Avengers (or another 616) Team?
A: Not the Avengers I'm writing. I think they're going to leave Moonknight alone for awhile, kinda let him get his feet on the ground before anyone gets ahold of him.
Q: Will the second Avengers book be a result of Civil War? If the Answer is yes will the current New Avengers team be split?
A: This is it for this team. There is no way after Civil War that they get some back together.
Q: Are the West Coast Avenger returning?
A: No. Tom has said that publically as well, that's not happening. In Civil War, there's a winner and a loser. There is an absolute win and lose. And from that you cannot put the team back together as it is right now.
Q; Will there be any solo Luke Cage or just Heroes for Hire stories in New Avengers or elsewhere in the future?
A: There is a Luke Cage, not a solo story, but a story from his pov told in issue #22 which is drawn by the Neil Yu and it's gorgeous.
Q: When will the next Ultimate Spiderman Hardcover come out?
A: Don't have that information in front of me.
Q: Will you be involved in any of the Marvel animated DVD movies?
A: Not this year.
Q: What do you think is wrong with Karl Pilkington from the Ricky Gervais Show?
A: I believe he has a massive social anxiety disorder that they are spinning into comedy gold.
Q: Would you ever return to write another Daredevil story? Maybe fill in for Brubaker if he needs to take a break? Not that I'm implying any Tanya Harding style attack. I just really enjoyed your daredevil run. Not in a weird way. Thanks for the stories.
A: Um, yeah...I love Daredevil. Daredevil appears in USM Annual that comes out this year. I will probably not be returning to Daredevil anytime in the near future.
Q: Are we going to get a second Barnes and Noble Ultimate Spider-Man hardcover?
A: I've heard rumblings. Haven't heard a definite yes or no. But, we are just coming up to the amount of issues they would need to fill a second one for those big giant hardcovers. So, maybe next year this time, something like that? I don't know. I haven't heard for sure.
Q: Do you have plans to use Black Panther in the New Avengers anytime soon?
A: He is in next week's New Avengers Illuminati Special. Which is already getting very fond reviews.
Q: Will "New Avengers" eventually be titled "The Avengers"?
A: Nope. (WORDBALLOON: Will it always be New Avengers? BENDIS: Nope)
Q: Do you and Maleev has some DD stories going now, or is that something we can expect later?
A: No, me and Maleev are starting prep work on Spider-Woman the ongoing series and some stuff we want to do together elsewhere.
Q: Do you follow any of the political threads on the board?
A: No. Unless you mean delete them and ban people when I wake up in the morning and there's forty thousand reported posts because someone said they don't like the President and I don't like that they said that so, anyway
Q: After the USM game, would you consider being involved in another video game, maybe something seperate from Marvel?
A: Yes, I would like to do that. Not that there is anything wrong with doing a Marvel game. But, I have a couple ideas cookin and people interested, so we'll see if anything sticks to the wall as they say in showbiz land.
Q: Would you consider branching out into other forms of literature, like writing a novel or short stories, sort of like Neil Gaiman did?
A: No. There are other forms of literature that I enjoy, I don't know if I need to write a novel. I'm under the belief that being a comic book author, a graphic novel author is as high of a calling as you can have really. No dis to Neil or anyone who writes novels, but I don't think there's any difference between writing graphic novels or writing a novel, novel. One is somehow considered more respected and I think it's crap.
Q: Does Marvel have more plans to put more titles under its "Icon" print? Are you interested in writing any of them?
A: That's creator-owned stuff and as Joe has pointed out publically, the Icon label is for people who are Marvel exclusive if they have a desire to do creator-owned work or something like that and need a place to do it with, that is offered to them. I do have a nice open-door policy at Icon because of my relationship with them and because they were so kind to create the label for us, So, there's no titles that I would be writing, I would create and write or write and draw myself. So, there isn't an assignment out there with an Icon label.
Q: Would you consider writing the screenplay for a DareDevil sequel?
A: I would love to. But, I don't know if that's happening at all. I got a lovely letter from the DD producer after our last issue of DD, and it was lovely, so I don't know if they're making
Q: Would you PLEASE give Ultimate Shocker his Yellow Quilt costume? It's the least you can do after making an ass out of him for so long.
A: No.
Q: Looking forward to seeing V for Vendetta?
A: Yes, I haven't seen it yet and I'll hopefully see it this weekend before I leave town.
Q: I love how New Avengers is pretty much an artist spotlight book. Kinda reminds me of DC's Batman/Superman only with a plot. Any chance we can see the wonderful JRJR for an arc? I loved his take on the team over in The Sentry. Hell, if you guys needed a permanent artist, I'd even say grab him.
A: We already did that one (look up).
Q: Any other dream artists for the book?
A: Yes, a lot of them are actually doing bits for the Disassembled arc which includes Howard Chaykin, Laniel Yu, Oliver Copiel, Adi Granov, and Jimmy Cheung who I'm very excited to be working with. I can't wait, he's (Cheung) doing the Iron Man issue.
Q: Can you give us any post-Disassembled storylines? I'm still waiting on Ultron and the Masters of Evil.
A: I gotta kinda keep my lips shut until Civil War gets closer to its halfway mark before we can announce anything.
Q: Speaking of the Masters, you mentioned planning on doing something with them. Will they be led by Zemo, or would that interfere with Fabian's T-Bolts plans?
A: Are they still publishing Thunderbolts? Too soon to say.
Q: Hi Brian
I loved the last Puls arc.
Just wondeing did you at any point toy with the idea of having Jessica lose the baby?
A: I did, then I said this isn't Days of Our Lives. I don't think it'd be a shock to anybody, Jessica and the baby are a very matched version of me being able to pull off any nerouses or observations that I've discovered about childhood or fatherhood or parenting since the birth of my child. So, other than that, the genuine fear you always have of the well-being of your child, it wasn't really in the plans to do anything other than that.
Q: Bendis, do you think it's more important for a superhero to be "iconic" or three-dimentional? Do you believe the two to be mutually exclusive? In my opinion, all of the major "icons" in comic books, i.e. Superman, Batman, Captain America, The Hulk, are each versions of different archetypes that have existed for thousands of years. I think it's this very fact that made them popular and keeps them popular, but it also makes for some very predictable behavior patterns. To really write a three-dimensional character, I think you need to have some degree of moral, emotional, or situational pliability with them. Yet fans wouldn't be able to cope with it if Cap was just plain 'ol Steve Rogers or the Hulk was a sweet-tempered genius (we both know it's been tried), so you're left in a creative rut. If you stay true to the icon, you stagnate the character; if you try to develop the character and say something new like "hey, Captain America posed for propoganda material where he told American kids to 'punch a Jap[anese person],' for freedom," you get fans who hate you for deviating from the morally infallible archetype, even when it's an element that makes sense for the character. So do you often find yourself sacrificing one for the other, and if so, which takes precidence?
I'm bringing this up because a lot of Ms. Marvel's talk about wanting to be an "icon" like Cap upset me. Anybody with "Marvel" in her name should embody everything that sets her company apart from the distinguished competition. And traditionally, that meant heroes being people first and standard-issue superhuman smackdown squads second. Bring back Carol the lush! And take Captain America down a few notches...give him some room to be a character. I've never seen anything as stoic and unyieldingly inspirational that wasn't covered in pidgeon shit.
A: I think they should be both, that's what the era of Stan Lee taught us, they can be both iconic and three-dimensional.
You're looking at the world through your eyes of her versus what she thinks of herself. You can easily see a character who has been through a lot. Made a lot of big mistakes and is making a decision now to be more than she was. Just because Marvel is in her name, she doesn't know that's what that word means to us as readers of the comic book. Civil War will take care of that for you (concerning Cap). Read NA #21 if you want to see Cap taken down a notch.
Q: Who killed JFK?
...other then that....
What one book that another writer is tackling now (it can be from any company) would you like to write?
A: The MOB.
I wish I would have thought of Nextwave. But I didn't.
Q: When playing Call of Duty 2 on 360 live, do you ever yell "NOT LIKE THIS! NOT LIKE THIS!!!!" and then make a kamikaze run to your death?
A: That's funny. But, I gotta tell ya, they just repatched Call of Duty 2 and it's awesome now. You can bitchtalk people while you're killing them.
Q:Will we ever see the seeming inconsistencies between the Ultimate Spidey game and the comic book explained? Issue #90 didn't really seem to explain them, as I thought it was supposed to take place after the game. Or is it one of those things were we should just shut up and enjoy the story?
A: Yes. As Brian Reed has expressed duely in the pages on my board, there's no mismatched continuity as of yet.
Q: Any chance of another issue of Wha....huh?! It was well worth the wait, and laugh out loud funny.
A: I believe the answer is no. I believe my continuing efforts to produce humor material was eclipsed by JMS getting his goddamn Spider-Ham...and Marvel's only going to put up with a little of that a year. So I guess its JMS' turn. I will not be involving myself in the Spider-Ham project and denounce it publicly. Denounce the ham! And, not because I'm jewish.
Q: Without spoiling any of Brubaker's plans for Daredevil, before you knew for sure you were going to end your run the way you did, how was the ending different? Would Daredevil have truly snapped Bullseye's neck?
A: No, but they probably would have made out. Probably would have looked at each other and said, you know, I have heterosexual feelings, they're just directed at you. Man, I know what you mean. And they would've started making out.
Q: On that note, any thoughts on the parallels between DD towards the end of his run, and the Punisher? They always used to seem to be two sides of the same coin, yet DD's increasing violence seemed to bring him closer to the Punisher's side the closer he came to killing Bullseye with each conflict.
A: See Civil War.
Q: The Powers Hardcover is great. I loved it, but there is just one problem, it is only volume 1. How long will we have to wait for Powers, Vol. 2 Hardcover?
A: If all goes according to plan, we'll have another one out in December.
Q: I loved Taskmaster's recent appearance in the Spider-Woman origin series. Very cool stuff. Assuming Ronin is still part of New Avengers after Civil War, any chance of seeing them square off?
A: I see it as inevitable.
Q: Will you or Millar be referencing Armor Wars in New Avengers or Civil War? Tony and Steve had a falling out during that as well. It looks like they are about to go through another rough time.
A: I don't think there's a direct reference, but it definitely falls in the same category.
Q: Are Justice and Firestar de-powered after House of M? Any chance of seeing them any time soon, if for no other reason than to reunite at least two of the Spider Friends? Heck, go for broke. Throw in Iceman too
A: I don't know. I believe, my goal before I leave USM is to somehow finagle a Spider-man and Amazing Friends...Firestar, Iceman, Spider-man story. So, I'm working on it.
Q: You blew up a town, flattened Alpha Flight and introduced a serious new bad-guy in a single issue, and some people still say "nothing happened" because no Avengers showed up in the issue besides Tony. I like your set up issues myself, but do you ever worry that you risk losing readers when the stars of the book don't make an appearance in a given issue?
A: Well, it's not like I do it everyday. It was a special issue, it was a prelude issue and Tony did show up so it was about the Avengers and the world the Avengers live in. It was about the villains. I think you risk losing readers if you don't do things that surprise them. I think you risk losing readers if you have a fight on page seven of every issue no matter what's going on. So, I look at it differently.
Q: Speaking of Alpha Flight. Did their fight really last all of a second or two, or was there more happening off panel? Preview art shows Iron Man going alone against the Collective guy for at least a few panels. I thought Vindicator and Guardian's tech suits were on par with that of Iron Man. For the record, I don't think they're dead. They'll get better.
A: I believe he mowed them down in a way that can only be seen as disrespectful by me to all of Canada and the history of Marvel comics and John Byrne and anyone whose ever read a comic book before, and how dare I. I think they're sleeping (Alpha Flight).
Q: Any plans for Dr. Doom, Kang, the (real, unhex created) Kree, the Skrulls or Ultron going against the New Avengers after they're done with the Civil War shake up?
A: Yes.
Q: Since the Spidey books aren't really touching on the House of M fallout, are we going to see that addressed in New Avengers if Spidey stays in the book?
A: I think that they are. I know there's a lot going on with Spider-man right now. I think a lot of it is related to House of M and Civil War and its all wrapped up together into a psychosis. I think when you see what Spider-man goes through in Civil War, you'll definitely see a connection.
Q: Are we going to see Super Shock's kid again in Powers?
A: Yes.
Q: Is New Avengers Luke and Jessica's "home" now that the Pulse is going away, or will we see them elsewhere?
A: Yes.
Q:Any plans for interactions with the Eternals in any of your books once they come back into the spotlight down the road?
A: Yeah, I mean we'll see..I haven't read Neil's thing yet. So yeah maybe if it's inspiring.
Q: Save. Elk's Run! I'm not asking. :)
A: Is it in trouble? Well, best wishes, I've been there man.
Q: My friend just read Secret War (all in one sitting, even though I considered making him wait at least a couple of weeks in between #4 and #5) and he wants to know where we'll next see Daisy Earthquakey Angelina Jolie Chick.
So how about it?
A: Actually appears in the next issue of New Avengers, issue #18.
Q: Is it true phil hester was to be a new avengers artist? until robert kirkman ate his brain?
A: Sure.
Q: side question are the rumors of an Oeming q&a appearing powers if so which issue?
A: Yeah, actually that'd be cool. I'd like that.
Q: if i bring you a brokeback bendis poster, will you sign it?
A: No! I will roll it up really really tight and shove it up your ass.
Q: also, on perhaps a bit more personal of a note, what's the best thing about being a parent? (i'm sure you've been asked something similar to this before, but as kids age, sometimes so does the answer to the question)
A: I'm at a stage where I get to have full conversations with my daughter which is amazing because last year when she said coo please I'd go yay! she said something. And now you have very involved conversations and also she's at an age where everything she asked me I have an answer for and she thinks I'm a genius and you know...she's like daddy knows everything. It's actually quite amazing because you're at that point you actually look at your kid and go I really love, no I really like my kid. It's the greatest thing that's ever happened to me. And you get a genuine feeling of accomplishment everyday. You feel like you really accomplished something. Which is somehow very important to me.
Q: Finally, have you ever ventured into any of the nonsense threads here (the kubiak, TIP, AAlgar, Bubbles, etc)? why or why not?
A: Ah, not really other than to ban someone. It's like someone else's party, let them do their thing. Also, I can't read every goddamn post, its crazy.
Q: Do you have any more GNs in the works?
A: Yes. I do have work in the works. Whether they're graphic novels or not, I haven't decided.
Q: If you could "steal" two writers from Dc who would they be?
A: Geoff and Rucka.
Q: Which DC character would you like to work on the most?
A: Plastic Man.
Q: Bendis + Cosmic Avengers story arc = ?
A: Collective
Q: Have you ever found yourself writing Ultimate Spidey and accidentally giving him the characteristics/dialogue of 616 Spidey, or vice versa?
A: No. I know that some people don't appreciate the more jokey way I write Spider-man. But I found him to be someone who jokes around a lot. Doesn't make him anymore naive or immature, that's just the way he is. I think in JMS book the story has been so serious there hasn't been a place for him to do the wisecracking. So, I have more of an opportunity with Spider-man to write him a little more lighthearted which is the Spider-man I enjoy. But I see the characters in a similar vain its just one of which is looking at the world through a fifteen year old experience, a fifteen year old use of language and pov and the other one is a little more world wearier. I try to write them from those two different persepectives.
Q: Will the New Avengers get their revenge on J. Jonah Jameson?
A: I think the best revenge is living well. So, no.
Q: Will JJJ ever find out Spidey's secret identity?
A: I don't know.
Q: What is the worst novel you have ever read?
A: The worst novel I've ever read I don't think I got past page 25 on. I couldn't tell ya. I don't have a lot of patience. I bail fast if a novel's sucking.
Q: When will the second Ultimate Spider man Annual take place. Will it be before or after The Parker Legacy?
A: Before the Parker Legacy.
Q: Ultimate M.O.D.O.K. ?
A: Yes.
Q: Do you know where Steve Ditko is hiding and can you get him to draw the next Ultimate Spider-man annual?
A: I do know people who know where he's hiding and I don't think so. I have not had the pleasure of meeting him. I would love to. I'm fascinated by the stories that I hear about him that I won't repeat, they're not my stories to tell. But, I'm fascinated by the life that he's living right now as an artist.
Q: How about Walt Simonson on a SHIELD series written by you? His artistic style has some parallels with Steranko's.
A: Ah! If only. The entire time that I've been with Marvel, he's been exclusive to DC. But, I've talked to him just last week and that would be great one day. But, I don't think anytime soon. He's a great guy and you should support his work.
Q: Part of this has been asked before, so I hate to repeat an already asked question, but the set up is different, so I'll re-ask it anyway... is there any chance of the foes that we've seen in New Avengers so far (Sauron, Carnage (when he puts himself back together) Wrecker, Elektro, Madame Hydra, Silver Samurai, the new Adaptoid, etc) teaming up to take down the New Avengers and forming an all new Masters of Evil? It's something that seems like a good idea to me. Or do you have completely different plans for a new Masters Of Evil?
A: I have a completely new plan for the Masters of Evil. But that is a very interesting idea.
Q: If sales of the Spider-Woman book are decent enough, do you anticipate staying on the book for a long time?
A: Yes. I don't leave a book based on sales. Marvel might leave a book based on sales but that's another thing.
Q: We already heard from you that Morgan Le Fay and possibly Nekra will be back, but do you plan on revamping/reinvigorating certain "lame" characters/concepts from the original Spider-Woman book that imo could become great villains, like the Brothers Grimm, The Enforcer (I think this one in particular could rock under your pen) and Excaliber?
A: Yes.
Q: Any chance of dusting-off (or even creating a brand new) Night Shift to battle Jessica?
A: I haven't thought about Night Shift. That's interesting.
Q: You need to write Skein/Gypsy Moth...a telekinetic hedonist that used to lead a "pleasure cult" and now runs several sex clubs, and has a thing for the ladies too...come on, she was one of the coolest Spider-Woman villains...Any chance she could return?
A: I have a fan sex site about her.
Q: Marc Andreyko, we need him at Marvel...now.
Can you convince him to come over to the dark side?
A: Yes.
Q: When can we expect Spider-Man to get more development and face time in New Avengers? While I've enjoyed his integration and characterization into the team, none of the arcs have been as Spidey-centric barring the JMS Hydra issues and I'd like to see some more action or input on his behalf.
A: I agree. It's just you know what? You're introducing a new team. Spider-man is a character that needed the least amount of development to put him onto the team. And then, Luke and Jessica Drew and the Sentry are all characters being almost re-established into the Marvel Universe and they need a little more face time. But, Spider-man will have a lot of face time in this and in Civil War.
Q: You've mentioned Ultron being in the cards as another "classic" Avengers villain they will be fighting, anytime soon or still far off?
A: already answered above
Q: Ever plan on using a double sized issue format for New Avengers outside of the annual? I'd like to see what you can cram into a double sized issue seeing as how there hasn't been one yet.
A: We've got the Illuminati Special coming out this week. That's a crammed...I crammed a lot of talking heads into that one. It's big.
Q: Can we expect a significant roster change for the New Avengers after Civil War?
A: answered above
Q: While Jigsaw breaking Spider-Man's arm was basically chalked up to writer/artist miscommunication is there still something going on with the character? More to the point Brian, seeing as how S.H.I.E.L.D. became corrupt and ran the Raft facility, is it possible that Jigsaw was used as a guinea pig for their experiments leaving him much stronger and more mutated looking than when we last saw him in Daredevil #64?
A: I love Jigsaw, so yeah. Consider that stolen. I have no plans for Jigsaw right now, but that's as good as any. Sure.
Q: Is it OK if I tell my 2 1/2 year old son that I write Spiderman and that you write Eclipse & Vega?
A: Sure. Well my kid now knows what I do for a living. And I was thrilled, that moment where they understand what you do for a living. We open up the box of my comps together and she enjoys that.
Anyway, I know I misspelled some names of the artists, so if anyone knows how to spell the names correctly, please let me know. Thx.
Q: After the Collective and Civil War, which villains can we expect to see in New Avengers? How about a new Masters of Evil?
A: I'm cooking a brand new Ultron...I'm cooking a new Masters of Evil...I think that Elektra being in charge of the Hand is to be dealt with. And also, which villains will be taking advantage of the Civil War...um, the heroes are fighting each other and what are the villains doing? And so maybe some of the villains will join the Civil War to take this opportunity to switch sides. There's going to be a lot of mastination going on.
Q: Is there a shot we'll see John Romita Jr. do an arc on New Avengers?
A: I would love that. I've talked to John for years about doing something together. He's busy with Eternals and New Avengers is booked for at least the next year and a half, so I don't think right now...but, I would jump at the chance.
Q: This is great news, Mr. Bendis, and congrats on working with one of my TOP favorite artists, Marc Silvestri. Looks like I'll be buying something of yours soon and having no choice but to love it.
I do have a question for you, and I'm not sugar coating it. This is your exact quote from the Daredevil DVD when talking about the 90's when pinup artists ruled comics.
"I was actually working at a comic store during this period. I was in college and I was working in a comic store and people would come up and not remember if they bought a particular issue, and it was like 5 dollars an issue, and they'd be like (did I buy this?), and I'm like wow...if I took 5 dollars off you and slapped you, you'd remember. You know, so, and I'm ...well, their not having any kind of experience, you know, not a REAL experience."
My question is this. How is this any different than your decompression stuff? While people might remember the story arc, a common complaint against this type of writing is that "nothing happened" in certain issues of the arc, so isn't that EXACTLY the same as having no experience like your comments directed toward the pinup artist days?
A: I actually don't see..first of all, I don't see my work as decompressed. I know that's a term that's been used to describe work by me and Warren Ellis and some other people. I don't sit there and go, here's an 11 page story, let's see how far I can stretch it. In fact, if anything, I feel I've crammed the issue full of stuff as we talked about in our last podcast. I would never in my life write something that I, that was half a story or less than what I would consider be worth the time that... the story's just being told differently. And, what you may not be getting in as many scenes, or as many words, hopefully you're getting something more. You're getting more subtext, you're getting more character moments, you're getting ideas, observations and the time taken to express those ideas and observations that you weren't getting in comics before, or you don't get in a lot of comics today. So, that's my feeling about it. I sit with the script for months before I even hand it in and make some hard decisions about whether I think this is worth anybody's money. Sometimes junk a whole storyline or junk a whole direction because I go, you know what, that's not worth people's time or money. I don't care what I think I'm doing, it's not worth someone's two dollars.
It's that hidden magic of storytelling, it's like making music or anything, it's all intangible. It's gotta be my instincts, all said and done. After I hand it in, I have to listen to the feedback from my editors, and take it under serious consideration. There's a script I just handed in where a lot of people read it and everybody got the same note unrelated to knowing that anyone else had said it. That was to take my third scene and make it my first scene. And, everyone gave me the same note, it was hilarious. I would be ridicious not to take that note and to apply it. It's not about me and my glorious words, and the magic that is me, it's about telling a story the best way it can be told. Making sure the people are enjoying themselves as much as possible.
Q: I won't get into the "boom...there's the shot" comments, but if I did, I'd be asking how you justify New Avengers #16 and it's gazillion splash pages.
A: Absolutely, I can justify it. When you have an artist like McNiven, you have a story that is taking a complete different direction than the book has been told, ahead of time I thought that the uses of the splash pages..and to tell that particular story was absolutely the best way to do it. I handed it in to everyone I work with and I said, is this gonna work...and I said to Steve, do you want to do this? He could have easily said, dude what are you doing? He completely got it and when I saw the files in the fourteen different steps that you see them, which is layout, pencil and ink, coloring...I was like, this will completely work. I could have easily gone back in and written something on top of those even after, but I thought they did work to the point if I had written something on top of them, I would have yanked it off because I thought the images were perfect. Now, some people read it and loved it, they spent time on the images, really kind of embraced the artwork, kinda almost felt the almost supernatural explosion of it. And others just flipped through the comic really fast and judged their entertainment value versus how many words they read. It's funny like, whose critique is more valid, the guy who liked it or the guy who didn't like it? I think about this all the time. There's one guy who came up to me in L.A. and didn't realize you could even do that with a comic book. He liked the nine panel grid and that's all he ever gets out of comics and when he sees a new idea expressed, a new way of achieving a scene, that he never thought could be done or never thought of doing before, he as a fledling comic book writer or artist was kinda amazed and really made him sit down and think about the page. That's what I do all day, I think about the page and what the page can do. I also think it's funny because it's like the least thing you'd expect from me. I thought that on it's own was worth telling the story that way.
Q: I was wondering if you were going to be using any ideas or stories from the Spider-Woman: Agent of Shield series you and Rick Mays were going to do, in the new Spider-Woman series?
A: I looked at that stuff and some of it I used in Elektra and some of it I in other places and the rest of it just wasn't that good. I'm a different writer now.
Q: You've said that Spider-Woman has one of the best costumes in comics. I was wondering why the change in her costume for the Spider-Woman: Agent of Shield series. I saw some of the redesigns that Mays did where the costume was a bit different and was just curious why you guys were gonna change it.
A: We weren't, that was just Rick taking some ideas out for a spin, he was just playing with it. None of that was originally for publication. Those were just sketches.
Q: Do you still ever have the time, or opportunity, to get out and visit comic shops? Especially the homier, more fan friendly, smaller shops. What do you think that the industry (mainly the big 2) should/or even can do to help small-town comic shops stay afloat, as these type of shops are disappearing way too regularly.
Oh, and is your wife home and can you have her pick up the phone just to yell at you for something? I'm sure you need to be yelled at for SOMETHING.
A: Oh yeah, every Wednesday. I was just in a store today, or yesterday...yeah, I get my comics every Wednesday like everybody else. If I'm in a new town and there's a comic shop nearby, I'll always stop by and just say "hi" and meet the retailers and see what the stores are looking like. As much as it's important to get your book on the shelf, it's actually kinda interesting to see what your book looks like on the shelf in the different places. I live in Portland where independent comics thrive to a level where you could fool yourself that that's what it's like all over the world, when you look at sales charts and you see that's not the case. There are certain comics that I know at Excalibur Comics where I shop, he tells me that the number one Marvel book is a book that's not even in the top 100. It's just the completely opposite to what the world is. It's important to get out and see what it's like in different parts of the world, or in different parts of the country.
The only thing (small-town shops) can do is put out the best product they can put out and get information to the retailer telling them what that product is and who we think they can sell it to and why we're making it. There are guys at Marvel that do this exceptionally well, Dave Gigle and John Dokes, do an exceptional job at getting that done. Once you do that, how much responsiblity can the company take, you know?
(2nd part of question- re: his wife) Ha ha, I'm sure she would, she's actually not home tonight. That's why I have time to do the podcast. She is elsewhere, where I am meeting her in two days.
Q: Any plans to visit the Seattle area anytime soon? (Since I know you had other places to be for Emerald City Con)
A: Not right away, but it's a hop, skip and a jump, so not impossible.
Q: Now that your long-time dream of working with Howard Chaykin is finally coming true, who is the next artist on your fantasy roster you'd most like to work with?
A: Oh, there's a list. Sternako, Milo Manara, Dave Stevens, Inkeepa Lau, Walt Simonson...list goes on and on.
Q: Do you want to eat Tom DeFalco's brains?
A: Hehe...no.
Q: Ghostbustas, wadaya want?
Seriously, what character or group that you previously haven't written would you want to tackle if given one, just ONE, GN to tell your story?
A: Ah...well, the Champions and Defenders have always been interesting to me.
Q: You love Avengers Annual 10. I love Avengers Annual 10. We all love Avengers Annual 10. So when we gonna see Carol Danvers put the smackdown on Rogue in New Avengers? Who cares if it's been done before? Who remembers? You know you want to write it Bendis. Write it, damn you! Write it!
Or something else. Whatever. I am hopelessly compelled to buy all your books in any event.
A: Well, she did that in X-Men years ago, didn't she? Didn't she blow Rogue right out of the mansion with one punch into the sky or something. I believe it's been done because Walt Simonson drew it many years ago.
Q: In Ultimate Spider-Man we've seen Boomerang, Shocker, and Killer Shrike. In the last issue we got both the Vulture and the Tinkerer. In the preview for the next issue we get Ringer. Does this mean we're going to see an Ultimate Secret War? I think that would be hilarious.
A: No.
Q: A while ago, you asked the board for ideas for an artist for a project (a second time, after the Luna Bros). Did anything come of that?
A: I did after the Luna brothers? I don't remember doing that.
Q: One last thing, what happened at the Writers panel in NYC? I got shut out becuase I was unaware it was an advance ticketing event and I've heard it was amazing.
A: It was amazing. It was one of the best panels I've ever been on. It was me, Tom DeFalco, JM Demattis, Denny O'Neil, Chris Claremont, and I had not met any of these people before except Chris Claremont. We were introducing ourselves and all of a sudden, Tom DeFalco who the night before at a panel was equally shot out of a cannon, grabbed the microphone and says 'hi, I'm Tom DeFalco and I hate these kids today, they write comics like the radio plays. Comics aren't radio plays. They're actions and explosions, and drama." I'm like holy crap. I could see there was a lot of guys from my board in the room and it was standing room only. It was kinda weird that he would just lay off like that, and he was completely serious. He hands the microphone to me and I said, can I respond to that? And he goes, "I wasn't talking about you," to be funny. I expressed what I just expressed earlier that I don't think there is any right or wrong way to make a comic, and that not enough people are pushing the medium as hard as they could, even in mainstream comics. In fact, especially in mainstream comics gave us an obligation to go further with it and to try stuff. Maybe you'll fall on your butt, maybe you'll do twelve pages of pinups and someone will want to kill you, but at least you're trying new things that are story related. And I really think about all the comics that I love, there are always comics that try something new and I really think that's magical. But at the same time, the traditions of the medium, the traditions of Marvel Comics, of mainstream comics are important and if people want to express their comments that way, great. But I just don't see why someone would get bent out of shape about someone trying something new. Then, Denny O'Neil asked for the microphone. I'm like, oh boy...I thought he's just going to hammer me right? He grabs the microphone and says, "let me tell you something, when I wrote Green Arrow back in 1960 blah blah blah, people said to me that's not how you write a comic book. And, I would look at them and say, I'm just trying to write a comic book. I'm telling you Tom, I'm telling you right now, there's that kid sitting over there, and he's making a comic and there's people out there buying that comic, and that comic's a hit comic...you're sitting there going I don't know why, then you're too old! You're too old to be making comics and you should leave!" I was like whoa, the place went nuts and it was great. It was like the first five minutes of the panel, it didn't start yet, it was crazy. I was just so grateful that someone who I admire so much just wasn't going to hammer my face... and so yeah the whole weekend I hear from people, that was an awesome panel! I was generally thrilled because sometimes you go to those panels and it's just like paint drying, it's no one's fault but you're own. But, I love talking about this, and it was good theater.
Q: Will Peter and Mary ever go on a nice date? Maybe next year when a ultimate I heart marvel book comes out?
A: Suuurree.
Q: So from what I hear, you'll be cellebrating 100 issues of USM with one big epic thingy that'll go from issue 97 all the way to 102. As I'm sure you already know, there'll be a lot of people using issue 100 as a jumping point. So did you write that particular issue in a way that new readers won't be lost? Is the big arc more like two arcs, pre-100 and post-100?
A: Jumping on or jumping off? It's a big arc and it's being told the way it's gotta be told. Every issue you've got to believe is someone's first issue or someone's last issue and you have to write it accordingly. It's the clone saga and it's big (the arc).
Q: Are you planning on creating any new African American characters for marvel? With the great way you that you write Luke Cage minus the ignorant stereotypes are you working on any other Black characters?
A: I have no answer. You don't go in planning that I'm going and now I'm going to create a black person. You create a character and they flesh themselves out. If you said there's not enough black people in Marvel Comics, it would come off so shallow and so fake. So, it's gotta come from a much more natural place.
Q: Any chance of getting Marc "One of the most amazingly talented and criminally underrated writers today, and your good buddy" Andreyko over to Marvel anytime soon? He's an outstanding talent that I really don't think DC seems to appreciate enough, and one of the nicest guys I've had the pleasue of interacting with (he was kind enough to let me send him some Manhunters to sign for my store to help promote the book, signed my buddie's Torso trade, and mailed it all back to me, even paying the return postage, and the best part, he seemed genuwinely excited to do so) Marvel needs this guy. So do it Bendis, talk to Marc, and bring his cute lil ass over to the House Of Ideas, where he belongs.
A: I have no idea why he's not at Marvel and I agree, it's criminal. I clearly think the world of Marc and his writing, and I think Marvel would be a much better place with him in it. You gotta find the right project, you know what I mean? It's gotta be the right thing. It can't be any old thing. Like, there's Mike Oeming who found the right niche for himself at Marvel in a huge way. It's facinating almost how perfect he is for the books that he's writing.
Q:What do you think it is that makes you enjoy Opie & Anthony (and XM Radio in general) so much more than that crappy company Sirius and their idiot king Howard Stern? O&A PARTY ROCK, my friend.
A: Well, I gotta tell you, Opie and Anthony are the true originals in radio. I mean, they were the first guys to look at Howard Stern and say I'm going to do exactly what he does and then bash the crap out of him after you steal all of his ideas. And call him a liar and a thief. No one else thought to do that, they were the first guys to do that, so bravo to them. I wish them the best of luck and their eight fans.
Q: Big changes coming to New Avengers after Civil War. That's fine and all. But are we ever going to see the full "New Avengers" team do some shit together? I mean one full mission or whatever where we actually have The Sentry, Cap, Iron Man, Luke, Spider-Man, Wolverine, Ronin, and Spider-Woman?
Because... uhhh... we haven't. And I'd like to. To have that. From you. As a writer. To me. The reader. Of your comics.
A: Yeah, as a collective, the big arc that is going on now and in about a month and a half you get the New Avengers Annual which is a complete team kicking someone's butt thing too. So, you have a couple more adventures before the whole thing goes to hell.
Q: Are there any plans for Powers action figures?
A: I gotta tell ya, I would love Powers action figures. Nobody has approached us. There are books that sell, and I'm not bragging or bashing anyone. There are books that sell a 3rd of what we sell that have complete lines of action figures. We have like fifty characters and no action figures. I would love it. We're completely ready to sell out but there's no one buying. We were ready to sell out years ago, but no one was buying.
Q: Spider-Man hardcovers are going to come out forever, right? I'm collecting USM in HC only, and I would just cry if they stopped somewhere along the way.
A: I believe they are doing really well and they just went back to print on a couple. So, I'm assuming we're good to go for awhile.
Q; Is this list still correct?
USM#91- 95 DEADPOOL
USM#96- 103 THE PARKER LEGACY
USM#104- 110 MYSTERIO
USM#111- 116 NEW VILLIAN
USM#117- 122 BLADE.
If not, what does the new USM line up look like?
A: No.
#91-95 DEADPOOL
#96-97 MORBIUS
#98- 103 THE PARKER LEGACY
Then THE DEATH OF THE GOBLIN, BLADE and MYSTERIO. We're still cooking new villains.
Q: Does your wife read the board and does she ever have to smack you upside the head and remind you you're not really the rock star we treat you as?
A: First of all, it's funny that you guys think you treat me like a rock star, if you treat rock stars by going, "hey!" House of M sucks and you write too many words...she doesn't read the board unless I point something out to her that I think she's find funny. She's too busy on some Battlestar Galactica board or whatever.
Q: Wouldn't you like to write a Power Man and Iron Fist comic drawn by David Mazzucchelli? He told me he would draw it if you would only ask him to.
Or maybe I just dreamt that. Or made it up.
Anyway. If you write Power Man and Iron Fist and get David Mazuzuchelli to draw it, I will give you a dollar. David Mazzucchelli really oughta draw something, doncha think?
A: Oh, well that's not true because I've asked him to do stuff and he's said no. We wanted to do a piece in DD #50 and he wouldn't do it. So, I don't think he'll be doing anything. Very disappointed we couldn't get him on Daredevil.
Q: Don't you think that Kirkman is a fantastic author who should write Ultimate Spider-Man?
A: No. I think he's a fantastic author who should only write zombies. He should be pigeon-holed as the zombie guy in comics to the point where he starts drinking and that's it for him.
Q: Will we see Monn Knight joining an Avengers (or another 616) Team?
A: Not the Avengers I'm writing. I think they're going to leave Moonknight alone for awhile, kinda let him get his feet on the ground before anyone gets ahold of him.
Q: Will the second Avengers book be a result of Civil War? If the Answer is yes will the current New Avengers team be split?
A: This is it for this team. There is no way after Civil War that they get some back together.
Q: Are the West Coast Avenger returning?
A: No. Tom has said that publically as well, that's not happening. In Civil War, there's a winner and a loser. There is an absolute win and lose. And from that you cannot put the team back together as it is right now.
Q; Will there be any solo Luke Cage or just Heroes for Hire stories in New Avengers or elsewhere in the future?
A: There is a Luke Cage, not a solo story, but a story from his pov told in issue #22 which is drawn by the Neil Yu and it's gorgeous.
Q: When will the next Ultimate Spiderman Hardcover come out?
A: Don't have that information in front of me.
Q: Will you be involved in any of the Marvel animated DVD movies?
A: Not this year.
Q: What do you think is wrong with Karl Pilkington from the Ricky Gervais Show?
A: I believe he has a massive social anxiety disorder that they are spinning into comedy gold.
Q: Would you ever return to write another Daredevil story? Maybe fill in for Brubaker if he needs to take a break? Not that I'm implying any Tanya Harding style attack. I just really enjoyed your daredevil run. Not in a weird way. Thanks for the stories.
A: Um, yeah...I love Daredevil. Daredevil appears in USM Annual that comes out this year. I will probably not be returning to Daredevil anytime in the near future.
Q: Are we going to get a second Barnes and Noble Ultimate Spider-Man hardcover?
A: I've heard rumblings. Haven't heard a definite yes or no. But, we are just coming up to the amount of issues they would need to fill a second one for those big giant hardcovers. So, maybe next year this time, something like that? I don't know. I haven't heard for sure.
Q: Do you have plans to use Black Panther in the New Avengers anytime soon?
A: He is in next week's New Avengers Illuminati Special. Which is already getting very fond reviews.
Q: Will "New Avengers" eventually be titled "The Avengers"?
A: Nope. (WORDBALLOON: Will it always be New Avengers? BENDIS: Nope)
Q: Do you and Maleev has some DD stories going now, or is that something we can expect later?
A: No, me and Maleev are starting prep work on Spider-Woman the ongoing series and some stuff we want to do together elsewhere.
Q: Do you follow any of the political threads on the board?
A: No. Unless you mean delete them and ban people when I wake up in the morning and there's forty thousand reported posts because someone said they don't like the President and I don't like that they said that so, anyway
Q: After the USM game, would you consider being involved in another video game, maybe something seperate from Marvel?
A: Yes, I would like to do that. Not that there is anything wrong with doing a Marvel game. But, I have a couple ideas cookin and people interested, so we'll see if anything sticks to the wall as they say in showbiz land.
Q: Would you consider branching out into other forms of literature, like writing a novel or short stories, sort of like Neil Gaiman did?
A: No. There are other forms of literature that I enjoy, I don't know if I need to write a novel. I'm under the belief that being a comic book author, a graphic novel author is as high of a calling as you can have really. No dis to Neil or anyone who writes novels, but I don't think there's any difference between writing graphic novels or writing a novel, novel. One is somehow considered more respected and I think it's crap.
Q: Does Marvel have more plans to put more titles under its "Icon" print? Are you interested in writing any of them?
A: That's creator-owned stuff and as Joe has pointed out publically, the Icon label is for people who are Marvel exclusive if they have a desire to do creator-owned work or something like that and need a place to do it with, that is offered to them. I do have a nice open-door policy at Icon because of my relationship with them and because they were so kind to create the label for us, So, there's no titles that I would be writing, I would create and write or write and draw myself. So, there isn't an assignment out there with an Icon label.
Q: Would you consider writing the screenplay for a DareDevil sequel?
A: I would love to. But, I don't know if that's happening at all. I got a lovely letter from the DD producer after our last issue of DD, and it was lovely, so I don't know if they're making
Q: Would you PLEASE give Ultimate Shocker his Yellow Quilt costume? It's the least you can do after making an ass out of him for so long.
A: No.
Q: Looking forward to seeing V for Vendetta?
A: Yes, I haven't seen it yet and I'll hopefully see it this weekend before I leave town.
Q: I love how New Avengers is pretty much an artist spotlight book. Kinda reminds me of DC's Batman/Superman only with a plot. Any chance we can see the wonderful JRJR for an arc? I loved his take on the team over in The Sentry. Hell, if you guys needed a permanent artist, I'd even say grab him.
A: We already did that one (look up).
Q: Any other dream artists for the book?
A: Yes, a lot of them are actually doing bits for the Disassembled arc which includes Howard Chaykin, Laniel Yu, Oliver Copiel, Adi Granov, and Jimmy Cheung who I'm very excited to be working with. I can't wait, he's (Cheung) doing the Iron Man issue.
Q: Can you give us any post-Disassembled storylines? I'm still waiting on Ultron and the Masters of Evil.
A: I gotta kinda keep my lips shut until Civil War gets closer to its halfway mark before we can announce anything.
Q: Speaking of the Masters, you mentioned planning on doing something with them. Will they be led by Zemo, or would that interfere with Fabian's T-Bolts plans?
A: Are they still publishing Thunderbolts? Too soon to say.
Q: Hi Brian
I loved the last Puls arc.
Just wondeing did you at any point toy with the idea of having Jessica lose the baby?
A: I did, then I said this isn't Days of Our Lives. I don't think it'd be a shock to anybody, Jessica and the baby are a very matched version of me being able to pull off any nerouses or observations that I've discovered about childhood or fatherhood or parenting since the birth of my child. So, other than that, the genuine fear you always have of the well-being of your child, it wasn't really in the plans to do anything other than that.
Q: Bendis, do you think it's more important for a superhero to be "iconic" or three-dimentional? Do you believe the two to be mutually exclusive? In my opinion, all of the major "icons" in comic books, i.e. Superman, Batman, Captain America, The Hulk, are each versions of different archetypes that have existed for thousands of years. I think it's this very fact that made them popular and keeps them popular, but it also makes for some very predictable behavior patterns. To really write a three-dimensional character, I think you need to have some degree of moral, emotional, or situational pliability with them. Yet fans wouldn't be able to cope with it if Cap was just plain 'ol Steve Rogers or the Hulk was a sweet-tempered genius (we both know it's been tried), so you're left in a creative rut. If you stay true to the icon, you stagnate the character; if you try to develop the character and say something new like "hey, Captain America posed for propoganda material where he told American kids to 'punch a Jap[anese person],' for freedom," you get fans who hate you for deviating from the morally infallible archetype, even when it's an element that makes sense for the character. So do you often find yourself sacrificing one for the other, and if so, which takes precidence?
I'm bringing this up because a lot of Ms. Marvel's talk about wanting to be an "icon" like Cap upset me. Anybody with "Marvel" in her name should embody everything that sets her company apart from the distinguished competition. And traditionally, that meant heroes being people first and standard-issue superhuman smackdown squads second. Bring back Carol the lush! And take Captain America down a few notches...give him some room to be a character. I've never seen anything as stoic and unyieldingly inspirational that wasn't covered in pidgeon shit.
A: I think they should be both, that's what the era of Stan Lee taught us, they can be both iconic and three-dimensional.
You're looking at the world through your eyes of her versus what she thinks of herself. You can easily see a character who has been through a lot. Made a lot of big mistakes and is making a decision now to be more than she was. Just because Marvel is in her name, she doesn't know that's what that word means to us as readers of the comic book. Civil War will take care of that for you (concerning Cap). Read NA #21 if you want to see Cap taken down a notch.
Q: Who killed JFK?
...other then that....
What one book that another writer is tackling now (it can be from any company) would you like to write?
A: The MOB.
I wish I would have thought of Nextwave. But I didn't.
Q: When playing Call of Duty 2 on 360 live, do you ever yell "NOT LIKE THIS! NOT LIKE THIS!!!!" and then make a kamikaze run to your death?
A: That's funny. But, I gotta tell ya, they just repatched Call of Duty 2 and it's awesome now. You can bitchtalk people while you're killing them.
Q:Will we ever see the seeming inconsistencies between the Ultimate Spidey game and the comic book explained? Issue #90 didn't really seem to explain them, as I thought it was supposed to take place after the game. Or is it one of those things were we should just shut up and enjoy the story?
A: Yes. As Brian Reed has expressed duely in the pages on my board, there's no mismatched continuity as of yet.
Q: Any chance of another issue of Wha....huh?! It was well worth the wait, and laugh out loud funny.
A: I believe the answer is no. I believe my continuing efforts to produce humor material was eclipsed by JMS getting his goddamn Spider-Ham...and Marvel's only going to put up with a little of that a year. So I guess its JMS' turn. I will not be involving myself in the Spider-Ham project and denounce it publicly. Denounce the ham! And, not because I'm jewish.
Q: Without spoiling any of Brubaker's plans for Daredevil, before you knew for sure you were going to end your run the way you did, how was the ending different? Would Daredevil have truly snapped Bullseye's neck?
A: No, but they probably would have made out. Probably would have looked at each other and said, you know, I have heterosexual feelings, they're just directed at you. Man, I know what you mean. And they would've started making out.
Q: On that note, any thoughts on the parallels between DD towards the end of his run, and the Punisher? They always used to seem to be two sides of the same coin, yet DD's increasing violence seemed to bring him closer to the Punisher's side the closer he came to killing Bullseye with each conflict.
A: See Civil War.
Q: The Powers Hardcover is great. I loved it, but there is just one problem, it is only volume 1. How long will we have to wait for Powers, Vol. 2 Hardcover?
A: If all goes according to plan, we'll have another one out in December.
Q: I loved Taskmaster's recent appearance in the Spider-Woman origin series. Very cool stuff. Assuming Ronin is still part of New Avengers after Civil War, any chance of seeing them square off?
A: I see it as inevitable.
Q: Will you or Millar be referencing Armor Wars in New Avengers or Civil War? Tony and Steve had a falling out during that as well. It looks like they are about to go through another rough time.
A: I don't think there's a direct reference, but it definitely falls in the same category.
Q: Are Justice and Firestar de-powered after House of M? Any chance of seeing them any time soon, if for no other reason than to reunite at least two of the Spider Friends? Heck, go for broke. Throw in Iceman too
A: I don't know. I believe, my goal before I leave USM is to somehow finagle a Spider-man and Amazing Friends...Firestar, Iceman, Spider-man story. So, I'm working on it.
Q: You blew up a town, flattened Alpha Flight and introduced a serious new bad-guy in a single issue, and some people still say "nothing happened" because no Avengers showed up in the issue besides Tony. I like your set up issues myself, but do you ever worry that you risk losing readers when the stars of the book don't make an appearance in a given issue?
A: Well, it's not like I do it everyday. It was a special issue, it was a prelude issue and Tony did show up so it was about the Avengers and the world the Avengers live in. It was about the villains. I think you risk losing readers if you don't do things that surprise them. I think you risk losing readers if you have a fight on page seven of every issue no matter what's going on. So, I look at it differently.
Q: Speaking of Alpha Flight. Did their fight really last all of a second or two, or was there more happening off panel? Preview art shows Iron Man going alone against the Collective guy for at least a few panels. I thought Vindicator and Guardian's tech suits were on par with that of Iron Man. For the record, I don't think they're dead. They'll get better.
A: I believe he mowed them down in a way that can only be seen as disrespectful by me to all of Canada and the history of Marvel comics and John Byrne and anyone whose ever read a comic book before, and how dare I. I think they're sleeping (Alpha Flight).
Q: Any plans for Dr. Doom, Kang, the (real, unhex created) Kree, the Skrulls or Ultron going against the New Avengers after they're done with the Civil War shake up?
A: Yes.
Q: Since the Spidey books aren't really touching on the House of M fallout, are we going to see that addressed in New Avengers if Spidey stays in the book?
A: I think that they are. I know there's a lot going on with Spider-man right now. I think a lot of it is related to House of M and Civil War and its all wrapped up together into a psychosis. I think when you see what Spider-man goes through in Civil War, you'll definitely see a connection.
Q: Are we going to see Super Shock's kid again in Powers?
A: Yes.
Q: Is New Avengers Luke and Jessica's "home" now that the Pulse is going away, or will we see them elsewhere?
A: Yes.
Q:Any plans for interactions with the Eternals in any of your books once they come back into the spotlight down the road?
A: Yeah, I mean we'll see..I haven't read Neil's thing yet. So yeah maybe if it's inspiring.
Q: Save. Elk's Run! I'm not asking. :)
A: Is it in trouble? Well, best wishes, I've been there man.
Q: My friend just read Secret War (all in one sitting, even though I considered making him wait at least a couple of weeks in between #4 and #5) and he wants to know where we'll next see Daisy Earthquakey Angelina Jolie Chick.
So how about it?
A: Actually appears in the next issue of New Avengers, issue #18.
Q: Is it true phil hester was to be a new avengers artist? until robert kirkman ate his brain?
A: Sure.
Q: side question are the rumors of an Oeming q&a appearing powers if so which issue?
A: Yeah, actually that'd be cool. I'd like that.
Q: if i bring you a brokeback bendis poster, will you sign it?
A: No! I will roll it up really really tight and shove it up your ass.
Q: also, on perhaps a bit more personal of a note, what's the best thing about being a parent? (i'm sure you've been asked something similar to this before, but as kids age, sometimes so does the answer to the question)
A: I'm at a stage where I get to have full conversations with my daughter which is amazing because last year when she said coo please I'd go yay! she said something. And now you have very involved conversations and also she's at an age where everything she asked me I have an answer for and she thinks I'm a genius and you know...she's like daddy knows everything. It's actually quite amazing because you're at that point you actually look at your kid and go I really love, no I really like my kid. It's the greatest thing that's ever happened to me. And you get a genuine feeling of accomplishment everyday. You feel like you really accomplished something. Which is somehow very important to me.
Q: Finally, have you ever ventured into any of the nonsense threads here (the kubiak, TIP, AAlgar, Bubbles, etc)? why or why not?
A: Ah, not really other than to ban someone. It's like someone else's party, let them do their thing. Also, I can't read every goddamn post, its crazy.
Q: Do you have any more GNs in the works?
A: Yes. I do have work in the works. Whether they're graphic novels or not, I haven't decided.
Q: If you could "steal" two writers from Dc who would they be?
A: Geoff and Rucka.
Q: Which DC character would you like to work on the most?
A: Plastic Man.
Q: Bendis + Cosmic Avengers story arc = ?
A: Collective
Q: Have you ever found yourself writing Ultimate Spidey and accidentally giving him the characteristics/dialogue of 616 Spidey, or vice versa?
A: No. I know that some people don't appreciate the more jokey way I write Spider-man. But I found him to be someone who jokes around a lot. Doesn't make him anymore naive or immature, that's just the way he is. I think in JMS book the story has been so serious there hasn't been a place for him to do the wisecracking. So, I have more of an opportunity with Spider-man to write him a little more lighthearted which is the Spider-man I enjoy. But I see the characters in a similar vain its just one of which is looking at the world through a fifteen year old experience, a fifteen year old use of language and pov and the other one is a little more world wearier. I try to write them from those two different persepectives.
Q: Will the New Avengers get their revenge on J. Jonah Jameson?
A: I think the best revenge is living well. So, no.
Q: Will JJJ ever find out Spidey's secret identity?
A: I don't know.
Q: What is the worst novel you have ever read?
A: The worst novel I've ever read I don't think I got past page 25 on. I couldn't tell ya. I don't have a lot of patience. I bail fast if a novel's sucking.
Q: When will the second Ultimate Spider man Annual take place. Will it be before or after The Parker Legacy?
A: Before the Parker Legacy.
Q: Ultimate M.O.D.O.K. ?
A: Yes.
Q: Do you know where Steve Ditko is hiding and can you get him to draw the next Ultimate Spider-man annual?
A: I do know people who know where he's hiding and I don't think so. I have not had the pleasure of meeting him. I would love to. I'm fascinated by the stories that I hear about him that I won't repeat, they're not my stories to tell. But, I'm fascinated by the life that he's living right now as an artist.
Q: How about Walt Simonson on a SHIELD series written by you? His artistic style has some parallels with Steranko's.
A: Ah! If only. The entire time that I've been with Marvel, he's been exclusive to DC. But, I've talked to him just last week and that would be great one day. But, I don't think anytime soon. He's a great guy and you should support his work.
Q: Part of this has been asked before, so I hate to repeat an already asked question, but the set up is different, so I'll re-ask it anyway... is there any chance of the foes that we've seen in New Avengers so far (Sauron, Carnage (when he puts himself back together) Wrecker, Elektro, Madame Hydra, Silver Samurai, the new Adaptoid, etc) teaming up to take down the New Avengers and forming an all new Masters of Evil? It's something that seems like a good idea to me. Or do you have completely different plans for a new Masters Of Evil?
A: I have a completely new plan for the Masters of Evil. But that is a very interesting idea.
Q: If sales of the Spider-Woman book are decent enough, do you anticipate staying on the book for a long time?
A: Yes. I don't leave a book based on sales. Marvel might leave a book based on sales but that's another thing.
Q: We already heard from you that Morgan Le Fay and possibly Nekra will be back, but do you plan on revamping/reinvigorating certain "lame" characters/concepts from the original Spider-Woman book that imo could become great villains, like the Brothers Grimm, The Enforcer (I think this one in particular could rock under your pen) and Excaliber?
A: Yes.
Q: Any chance of dusting-off (or even creating a brand new) Night Shift to battle Jessica?
A: I haven't thought about Night Shift. That's interesting.
Q: You need to write Skein/Gypsy Moth...a telekinetic hedonist that used to lead a "pleasure cult" and now runs several sex clubs, and has a thing for the ladies too...come on, she was one of the coolest Spider-Woman villains...Any chance she could return?
A: I have a fan sex site about her.
Q: Marc Andreyko, we need him at Marvel...now.
Can you convince him to come over to the dark side?
A: Yes.
Q: When can we expect Spider-Man to get more development and face time in New Avengers? While I've enjoyed his integration and characterization into the team, none of the arcs have been as Spidey-centric barring the JMS Hydra issues and I'd like to see some more action or input on his behalf.
A: I agree. It's just you know what? You're introducing a new team. Spider-man is a character that needed the least amount of development to put him onto the team. And then, Luke and Jessica Drew and the Sentry are all characters being almost re-established into the Marvel Universe and they need a little more face time. But, Spider-man will have a lot of face time in this and in Civil War.
Q: You've mentioned Ultron being in the cards as another "classic" Avengers villain they will be fighting, anytime soon or still far off?
A: already answered above
Q: Ever plan on using a double sized issue format for New Avengers outside of the annual? I'd like to see what you can cram into a double sized issue seeing as how there hasn't been one yet.
A: We've got the Illuminati Special coming out this week. That's a crammed...I crammed a lot of talking heads into that one. It's big.
Q: Can we expect a significant roster change for the New Avengers after Civil War?
A: answered above
Q: While Jigsaw breaking Spider-Man's arm was basically chalked up to writer/artist miscommunication is there still something going on with the character? More to the point Brian, seeing as how S.H.I.E.L.D. became corrupt and ran the Raft facility, is it possible that Jigsaw was used as a guinea pig for their experiments leaving him much stronger and more mutated looking than when we last saw him in Daredevil #64?
A: I love Jigsaw, so yeah. Consider that stolen. I have no plans for Jigsaw right now, but that's as good as any. Sure.
Q: Is it OK if I tell my 2 1/2 year old son that I write Spiderman and that you write Eclipse & Vega?
A: Sure. Well my kid now knows what I do for a living. And I was thrilled, that moment where they understand what you do for a living. We open up the box of my comps together and she enjoys that.