Batman - Dark Knight, Dark City

I recently got a shout-out in one of my favourite blogs - Is That Cool? - and I'm proud as punch! And while I may never have read much Heavy Metal in my youth, I certainly read a lot of Batman comics.

This particular storyline (Batman, issues 452-454) has been a favourite of mine over the years, and with the burgeoning rumours regarding Christopher Nolan's third Batman film, I felt it time to share my thoughts, particularly regarding the rumour that the Riddler wil be making an appearance.

A lot of people say the Riddler is one-note, a mere shade of the Joker. Those people never read 'Dark Knight, Dark City', which saw the Riddler take a very very vicious turn (and deliver some very very nifty riddles!). I admit, there's definitely something endearing about Joker's out-and-out chaos, the Riddler's modus operandi always appealed to me. Couple that with Frank Gorshin's unforgettable portrayal in the TV series (and that laugh!), and you're onto a winner.

Without trying to spoil too much of the plot, DKDC finds the Riddler attempting to re-enact an occult ritual, originally partaken in by early Gotham residents, including future US president Thomas Jefferson.

Story by Peter Milligan, ink by Kieron Dwyer, lettering by Dennis Janke, covers by Mike Mignola.

All frames taken from issue 452.

'Sploding babies!!! WTF??? (or are they?)

Zombies!!! WTF??? (or are they?)

Oz Magazine Dec 1969

The Muppet Show Playing Cards - Clubs

Pee-wee Herman Topps Trading Cards

Oz Magazine Dec 1969

(Gerard Malanga)

Kid Ringo

The way to my heart? Pander to my ego, and preferably throw in a Western theme, and I'm yours.

My friend, Spencer, picked this up for me a few years back. Unfortunately, he's married.

The Muppet Show Playing Cards - Hearts

Oz Magazine Dec 1969

Ever heard of Oz magazine? 

I picked this one up from a lovely, and very knowledgeable, chap at the Spitalfields Antique Markets, who had an admirable stash for sale. 

Unfortunately, the zine is just slightly larger than my scanner, so I've had to occasionally splice some of the pics together. I wonder if you would've noticed if I hadn't told you that?

Postcard

The Muppet Show Playing Cards

I've actually had these cards in my possession for my entire life, but it only occurred to me to scan them and post them here just recently.

They've taken quite a beating over the years, and are now totally useless as a proper deck of cards (note the re-assigned Joker card), but it'd break my heart if I were to ever lose them.

Royal Flushes - Kings