The Virgin Read: Against Editorial Orders, She Focuses On Her Personal Life Again

Hellblazer # 243
Written by Andy Diggle
Art by Giuseppe Camuncoli, Stefano Landini & Lee Loughridge
Published by Vertigo/DC Comics

I’ve heard a lot about John Constantine from a couple of employees here at TFO.  I never thought Hellblazer would end up as my pick….but, I don’t know, a priest in the background and an (unintentionally?) devilish looking detective sort in the foreground?  (I later realized that is a cigarette between his lips….but at first glance he looked like he had two buck teeth with a huge gap in between, and some blood on the gum of the left tooth.  Look at it.  See what I mean?!)  I was somewhat drawn to this comic by its cover.  So, Hellblazer it is. 

Anyhoo…It’s a pretty intriguing story line.  I have to admit that I had no idea that was Constantine until after I finished the whole thing and went, “where was…? Ooooh.”

I can clearly see that Hellblazer is not your average comic.  That it delves into dark places and makes the reader ask herself questions.  I can see that it likes to dig into taboos.  I can also see that although this could be a stand-alone story, the “Hello, Ellie” at the end leads me to believe that there is so much more to know. 

And so, normally, I would take this opportunity to reflect on religion vs. spirituality.  Or the ways we, as people, can deceive ourselves and find ways to make ourselves believe that our selfish motives and actions are actually “good” and “right.”  I, of course, am referring to this issues priest’s idea of “exorcising your demons” by following your instincts, but in a secret room. 

But see – I’m getting married.  In six days.  Six days until I become legally obligated to write these columns.  And I honestly don’t care about anything else.  Well, that sounds harsh.  I just don’t really have the space in my brain and life right now to have philosophical discussions or debates.  I’ve just had a 45 minute conversation about the table numbers.  And had a very successful day of shopping, but still need to buy a bikini for the honeymoon, fill up gift bags for out-of-towners, AND design and make Jeopardy! for our rehearsal dinner shenanigans.  (Print out our vows on cards, etc. etc., seriously I can talk about this a lot more.)

So, I don’t feel like delving into the world of wrong-doers and their motives right now.  Because as far as I’m concerned, we’re doing everything right, and I’m just too happy about the whole thing.   Nothing kills cynicism like being a Bride.

Powers Annual # 1
By Michael Avon Oeming
Published by Icon/Marvel Comics

So, look at this.  I’m back for thirds.  Thirds, I tell ya.  I’m gonna have to buy the old trades and catch up, I’m thinking.  I love Powers.  I love the artwork.  It never fails to attract me.  And I got so excited to “see what happens next,’ that I decided to do two reviews this week.

Well, I’ve now learned about this whole “Annual” thing.  And although in the long-run I may end up a fan, I’m not this time.

I want MY Powers.  I want to know what’s gonna happen next.  And honestly, to have not learned anything more about the story I’ve gotten hooked on, but yet still have to review this comic – well, I feel gypped. !!

I mean, I didn’t really understand it.  Basically, its seems like the main dude, who I at least know once had powers, but no longer does, was having a flashback..????  But, it was like a flashback to the beginning of time.  How can that be?  But it can be.  Because this is a comic book. 

I tried to follow it.  I mean, I did follow it.  But this was like getting a big piece to a story that I knew nothing about.  I feel like more regular readers probably got some new knowledge and satisfaction...But, ya know, I just wanted to find out what happened to the girl from the last issue!!

And, seriously, did I mention that I’m getting married in 6 days?  I don’t have time for new pursuits!  I don’t even have time for old pursuits!  I can’t believe I’m even doing this right now. 

P.S.  You know how I’m getting married on Sunday?  Well, I will be on honeymoon the following week.  The Virgin Read will be in the Virgin Islands,, ..not reading (and not being a virgin.)  So, stay tuned!

-Nina Miller, 2008

Comments

[Garrett Martin]

I haven't read an issue of Hellblazer since 1994, and I'm only pointing that out because goddamn has that comic been around for a long time. It's like the only currently published comic that's been around since before the '90's that isn't one of the ten or fifteen most prominent superhero properties ever. When I was a kid DC had a number of war and supernatural comics with really high numbering, like Sgt. Rock and House of Mystery, and Hellblazer is the only current book I can think of that fits that really long-lived non-superhero bill.

Anyway, good post, and congratulations on the nuptials.

[Sharif]

Nina,

I'm so happy that TFO is contractually binding you. I am a bit perplexed--what do you mean you won't be reading comic books on your honeymoon? I already prepared and sent your editor a substantial reading list. Has that yet to be passed on? Please check with your superiors.

[Hypersonic]

Well Hellblazer has been around awhile, though I have prefered the old Jamie Delano days way back in the beginning.

Powers rocks. The guy who had powers (and may still have them, or got intergalactic ones a la Green Lantern) is immortal, as are most of the highly powered...erm...powers. but a good book it is. Well crafted I'd say.

[Matthew J. Brady]

The Annual worked pretty well if you've been following the series for a few years (since the Forever storyline at least), but without prior knowledge, it probably doesn't make much sense. But if you read the collections and then reread this, you'll probably like it. So, yes, go read a few hundred pages of comics in order to understand this one. Ain't this industry grand?