"Where the hell have the updates for the customs been? You have me interested in looking up Starman."
Thanks for writing in, concerned fan! The updates have been on hold for a little while first because of my trip to San Diego, and then because of the custom project I've been working on for CustomCon 21 (coming up in October! Stay tuned!). But with that all out of the way, I can finally get back to posting customs for fans (concerned or not) to enjoy.
Speaking of San Diego, a bunch of nifty exclusives were first released there, including a box set of Marvel's World War II super team, the Invaders. And it's a really neat box set, with a stunning translucent Human Torch. But what if you want a Human Torch Minimate that's not on fire? After all, the Torch wasn't on fire all the time - how would he eat or sleep or sit down without setting the couch on fire? That's why I present a new custom - the Jim Hammond Human Torch, wearing his casual bright red fireproof jumpsuit.
Please enjoy. And go look up "Starman".
The Ted Knight Starman custom is from when Ted has retired from being a hero, and was happy to let his son Jack carry on as Starman. But that doesn't mean Ted doesn't play hero again...
And finally, the villain for Starman - The Mist, who threatened three generations of Knights with his evil, cloudy ways. So go check them out, and read "Starman", dammit.
First up is the newest Starman - the Danny Blane Starman, current member of the Justice Society of America, and possessor of one of the coolest costumes in comics.
The second custom is an obscure character (but not if you've read "Starman") - the Starman of 1951. Check them out now. Or later if you want, but that seems kinda silly since you're here now.
It's About Jack - "Starman" is the story of Jack Knight, the son of a super hero who reluctantly takes over his father's role as Starman. It's a character-driven story, as we watch Jack develop not as a hero, but as a person.
The Supporting Cast - There's a large supporting cast in "Starman", including Jack's father Ted, the O'Dare family and the dark and mysterious Shade. And each member of the cast gets a chance to grow and shine during Jack's story. Even Jack's city - Opal City - is explored and practically becomes a character.
History - "Starman" is a comic that celebrates the history of its characters. We get stories about Ted as the Golden Age Starman. We get stories about the Shade and early Opal City. Every character that used the name Starman eventually shows up and meets Jack. The exploration of history helps reinforce the sense of legacy that's a big part of "Starman".
It's Complete - We get Jack's entire story over 80 issues and assorted specials. There's a definite beginning, middle and end. It's a refreshing change from comics with stories and events that drag on and on for sales when the story was over long ago.
"Starman" is not a story for everyone. It doesn't have brutal action or angsty characters. It does have rambling dialogue about Sondheim musicals or 1950's collectibles, conversation with dead brothers and man-eating mystic posters. But if you think any of this sounds interesting, it's well worth checking out.
Oh yeah - this week's custom. It's the Jack Knight Starman, the "star" of the "Starman" series. Look, I made a little joke there.
So join us each week this month as I post new customs of my favorite characters from Starman, and occasionally babble about what I enjoy about Starman. And probably encourage you to give Starman a chance if you haven't read it already.
The first custom for Starman Month has to be the Golden Age Starman. He was the first to use the name "Starman", and would create a heroic legacy that would span generations. So go check him out.
First up is Superman's alter ego, mild-mannered reporter from Kansas, Clark Kent. And for complete contrast, the second custom is Superman's arch enemy, Lex Luthor as inspired by the "Justice League Unlimited" cartoon!
Long-time fans of the site may have noticed that it's been a while since I posted a DC custom. Well, with the DC Minimates line now ended (and I still haven't forgiven you, DC Direct), I'm going to be creating a lot more DC customs. For example, the month of July will be Starman Month, where I'll be celebrating the DC comic "Starman". Be here, won't you?
The mob-related villain - Tombstone, the albino hitman! The other villain - longtime Daredevil foe, the Purple Man! Go check out these two well-dressed villains now.
The first custom in Sharp-Dressed Minimate Month is a Marvel villain who's often trying to become head of organized crime - the Rose! Go forth and seek him out.
The first is a long-time Marvel character who was set to make a big comeback in the mini-series "Civil War". It's the Bill Foster Goliath!
The second custom is a Marvel villain who has has since become a hero and make good on his villainous past. It's the Eric Josten Goliath!
Go check out these towering customs, won't you? And come back next week when we kick off Sharp-Dressed Man Month, which will have nothing to do with ZZ Top. Honest.