Author: mguaman

The Singular Process Works Too!

Although the collaborative process allows for diverse perspectives and talents to be showcased, the singular process seems to produce equally astonishing comics with incredible plots and innovative illustrations. Comic books such as Watchmen or Dark Knight Rises may not have been as successful without the collaborative efforts of the writers and illustrators however, Tintin, Good..

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“Who watches the Watchmen”

I remember previously reading the Watchmen, but as I began reading this comic a second time I realized how many things I over looked or never questioned. One of the things that really caught my attention was on page 60, row 2, panel 2, “Who watches the Watchmen.” First, I really liked how this question..

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Changes in Batman Across Time

It is amazing to read the first issues in which Batman appears and see how much his character has developed and changed (both in comics and films). The plots have addressed deeper societal/character issues, the illustrations (including backgrounds) have shifted to a darker palette, new characters have been introduced, and of course, the appearance of..

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Walking Through The Streets of Paris

One thing I really enjoyed about Adéle Blanc-Sec was seeing how Jacques Tardi brought to life early 20th century Paris. Influenced by nationalist attitudes, his detailed backgrounds accurately portray Paris, highlighting the city’s architecture and everyday life during that period. Furthermore, Jacques Tardi repeatedly identifies and labels each (historic) building, such as the Jardin des..

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X-Women*

I have a love-hate relationship with many DC and Marvel comics. On the one hand they have fascinating characters with extremely well-developed story lines. On the other hand, there is an underrepresentation of Latinos, Asians, Native Americans etc. and a misrepresentation of female characters. When black or Latino characters do appear, they are often exoticized or ‘Europeanized’.  We see..

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Introducing Latino Culture

Gus Arriola’s  Gordo’s Critters (1985) introduces Mexican Culture to an American audience. During the 1940’s and throughout the 1980’s there was a great shift in the number of Latinos, particularly of Mexicans, who were immigrating to the Unites States. Many years later, we see the impact Latino immigrants have had in our communities especially within urban areas. Large cities such as Los Angeles, New..

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I’m no rabbit. I’m Human!

While reading The Mysterious Underground Men (TMUM), I couldn’t help but notice the similarities between the characters, Mimio and Pinocchio. Through unethical experimentations, Mimio is given many human characteristics including the ability to speak, solve math problems, and think critically. He believes such abilities prove that he is human. Additionally, the scientist who raised him (more like..

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