DVD Review - COMIX: Beyond the Comic Book Pages

Comix: Beyond the Comic Book Pages *** (out of 5) (NR) People of a certain age and upbringing mourn the demise of the thank-you note. New means of communication have shifted the social landscape in many ways. Among the lesser may be a texted “thx” in lieu of the hand-written, snail-mailed missive. This documentary reverses the trend within the realm of superheroes - the comix, the movies, the TV shows, the ‘toons, the the costumes, the toys - sorry - action figures, and the burgeoning culture of cosplay and conventions.

The legendary Stan Lee and other writers, drawers and inkers effusively thank those who preceded and inspired them; actors thank the artists who created the characters they play; all of them thank the rabid fans who buy whatever they’re presenting; fans thank everyone who gave them whatever pleasure(s) they derive from the massively diverse menu of heroes and vehicles for them. Everyone wallows in the camaraderie of their fellow afficionados in this community of fellowship and fun.

Much of the material comes via snippets from talking heads, interspersed with pages from comics and graphic novels, clips from TV and films, and even more colorful and energetic footage from convention attendees - costumed or in civvies. There are historical tidbits that even the ardent may not have known. One also sees that gatherings like San Diego’s annual Comic-Con are not simply overrun by socially-challenged dweebs who only emerge from their parents’ basements like Punxsutawney Phil, but include all ages, spanning the gamut of anyone’s 1-10 hotness/hipness scale. Nerd Chic is real, at least within this subculture, embracing fans of the science, the fantasy or the frivolity.

If you’re not into the subject, this likely won’t convert you. But for those who are, it should be a treat to see many faces behind the images you’ve enjoyed, hearing how deeply they appreciate you, and grasping how much company you have around the country...and beyond!!! (release date 7/19/16)