Demons of Sherwood #22

Bo Hampton (5:47 PM on Thu May 15, 2008)

I'm glad to hear from you, Emily. As you know, it's really difficult to determine what appeals
to the female readership of comics. If we've struck a chord that works for you I'd like to hear
why it does . Any input MUCH appreciated! I promise you it will find it's way into our next efforts.

EmilyB (12:10 AM on Fri May 16, 2008)

I like Marion. She's sexy, but not in an overtly stereotypical way. When she uses her sexuality, it makes sense, like on the road to lure the travelers so that Robin can ambush them. I really think she's got a good head on her shoulders, and I can feel her natural calm coming through. It's nice, especailly since I always think of Maid Marion as a damsel in distress, and here she isn't. She's made her own decisions in a world that feels before her time, and that's admirable. I can tell your Marion can kick ass. Also, I like everyone, not just the women. I think the demonic elements are perfect, which I never thought of as an idea to be used in conjunction with this storyline before, and the men are all individuals, with great, clearly-defined personalities. Keep going! :)

Bo Hampton (10:14 AM on Fri May 16, 2008)

Great!! I like strong women too. Never was too comfortable with the harem girl type clinging to Conan's legs as he beats his chest. Looks great, tho if painted by Fraz.
The best female characters are competent, at least--and as smart as they are good to look at. I was raised by my mom and have three cool sisters. ...thanks again, Emily!

Mike Gold (11:41 AM on Fri May 16, 2008)

You know, the though occurred to me that when this series is anthologized, we're going to have one of the most beautiful graphic novels ever produced.

EmilyB (12:06 PM on Fri May 16, 2008)

It is stunning.

Russ Rogers (12:14 PM on Fri May 16, 2008)

Amazing. Truly cinematic. Are you listening Hollywood? You've got the storyboard right here. Which savvy production company is gonna snap up the option first?

Bo Hampton (12:54 PM on Fri May 16, 2008)

Thanks,Mike,Emily and Russ--I really needed a boost to get this climax done
which you have provided--I'm off!!

Anonymous (1:26 PM on Fri May 16, 2008)

Wow - these are exactly the kinds of things a lonely writer wants to hear on a rainy afternoon all alone in his office. I've been tracking your comments in particular, Emily, on both DOS and EZ Street - I'm really eager to write material that women are drawn to. I had a project some years ago that I just knew women would go for and was disappointed that it was so hard to make a connection. Of course that was print which has a whole 'nother set of problems to deal with in connecting with any audience. I've said it before and I'll say it again - of the many great things about working at Comic Mix the fact our stuff is so easily accessible to anyone is fantastic - followed closely by the readers' ability to instantly give us feedback. And Mike - you are so right. Bo has just blown the doors off this thing...I'm a lucky guy.

bob tinnell

Mike Gold (1:53 PM on Fri May 16, 2008)

Bob, I think there's a problem with logging on as "Anonymous" and then signing your name. Sorta undermines the "anonymous" thing...

EmilyB (1:26 PM on Tue May 20, 2008)

I'm really happy to hear this, Bob. I think that it's best to write comics as you feel work for you, because all of us women are individual in terms of what we find works for us. For me, it's less about empowering women specifically than it is just having women be just as interesting and equal as men. Each character can be individual, and should be, with their own personalities and reactions. And it's not that I think women should never be sexy or weak or sad or in distress. It's just about not returning to the mold of "Oh, I need a man to help me! Oh, I need to be sexy to be noticed!" It's being gender blind. Can this PERSON do x, y, and z based on how I've created him/her? If not, okay, cool, what can they do. I look forward to more! :)

EmilyB (1:21 PM on Tue May 20, 2008)

Glad to hear it! :)