Collecting Issues-Comic Podcast

In this episode of Collecting Issues, we dive headfirst into Thor: Prey, collecting issues #7–14 of Donny Cates’ 2020 run with art by Nic Klein, colours by Matthew Wilson, and covers by Olivier Coipel. This mythic, messy, and often horrifying arc explores what happens when the forgotten alter ego, Donald Blake, returns—with a scalpel and a grudge.

We break down:

• How Thor: Prey explores the consequences of playing God
• The madness of Donald Blake and his eerie transformation
• The best-ever comic book appearance of Throg, Frog of Thunder
• Mythology, body horror, and the absurd brilliance of modern Thor comics
• Nic Klein’s stunning panel work and Matthew Wilson’s dimensional colour artistry

Plus, we unpack why Thor might be the most unfixably broken character in comics—and why that makes him so damn fun.

Whether you’re here for frogs with hammers, cosmic serial killers, or simply to ask “Where the hell is Donald Blake?”, you’re in the right place.

00:00 Introduction to Thor Prey

02:13 Creative Team and Art Style

04:29 Publication Context and Thor's Journey

07:10 Thor's Identity and Worthiness

08:26 Donald Blake's Return

10:01 Thor's Legacy and Influence

26:02 Monthly Comics and Storytelling

33:31 The Power of Throg

34:06 Throg's Epic Battle

37:24 Donald Blake's Transformation

40:32 Norse Mythology in Comics

45:56 The Madness of Donald Blake

53:35 Art and Color in Comics

58:27 Final Thoughts and Wrap-Up

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In this episode of Collecting Issues, Michael and Benjamin break down 8 Billion Genies, the complete 8-issue limited series from Image Comics by Charles Soule and Ryan Browne. What if every person on Earth was suddenly given a genie and one wish? This high-concept comic explores the global and personal chaos that follows—and we’re diving into all of it.

From the explosive first eight seconds to the profound implications of the final wish, this episode explores themes of desire, power, world-building, and the consequences of getting exactly what you want. The hosts compare it to works by Robert Kirkman and Alan Moore, discuss the structure and visual style of the comic, and reflect on how this series delivers big ideas in a tightly-paced, character-driven format.

Topics include:

• The wish-making mechanic and its implications
• Ryan Browne’s distinctive art and design of the genies
• The storytelling technique of exponential time jumps
• Cultural commentary, character arcs, and final twists

Perfect for fans of speculative fiction, creator-owned comics, and smart sci-fi storytelling, this episode offers a thoughtful (and often hilarious) deep dive into one of Image Comics’ most creative modern titles.

Time Stamps:

00:00 Introduction to 8 Billion Genies

01:28 Premise of 8 Billion Genies

01:51 Comparisons and Commentary

02:50 Podcast Promotion and Support

05:14 Genies and Their Personalities

09:05 Creators and Their Works

13:08 World Building and Rules

30:26 Character Arcs and Tragedies

38:21 The Dougland People and Human Cycles

39:00 The Wish-Making Mechanic

40:13 The Eternal Witness and World Building

42:13 The Zhiang Family Arc

44:42 Daisy's Development and Character Arcs

47:40 Themes of Desire and Control

59:59 The Final Wish and Conclusion

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In this very first From the Archives episode of Collecting Issues, we go back to where it all began with our 2022 discussion of Kraven’s Last Hunt, the seminal Spider-Man story by J.M. DeMatteis and Mike Zeck. Originally published across The Amazing Spider-Man, Spectacular Spider-Man, and Web of Spider-Man in 1987, this dark, introspective arc sees Kraven the Hunter bury Spider-Man alive, assume his identity, and face off against the terrifying sewer-dweller Vermin.

We look at the story’s gothic almost Russian literature-esque tone, its place in the evolution of superhero comics, and its heavy literary and psychological themes—including a breakdown of its Freudian structure, Blakean symbolism, and bleak commentary on identity and mortality. Plus, we revisit how this tale reshaped Kraven as a complex villain—and how its impact still echoes today.

Find out as we awkwardly stumble through one of Marvel’s most unforgettable arcs—with all the chaotic podcast energy of our earliest recordings.

Topics include:

• Fearful symmetry and William Blake’s “The Tyger”
• The evolution of Kraven the Hunter
• 1980s New York and its influence on comic storytelling
• The black suit and its darker legacy
• Inner monologues galore
• Cheek touching, grave digging, and sewer monsters

00:00 Introduction and Overview

03:56 Correcting the Record: Spider-Man Series Clarification

04:22 The Unique Structure of Kraven's Last Hunt

06:56 Reading Experience and Graphic Novel Format

08:03 1980s Vibes and Comparisons to Batman

11:46 Freudian Psychology in Spider-Man

15:29 The Shocking Suicide in Comics

16:36 Kraven's Return and Downgrade

22:30 Kraven's Last Hunt: Themes and Inspirations

April's Comic Book Club Pick: Eight Billion Genies by Charles Soule and Ryan Browne!

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Welcome back to Collecting Issues – the comic book book club podcast – and our first episode of the year (even if it is March, don’t @ us). This month, we’re diving deep into one of the most iconic and influential superhero stories of all time: Daredevil: Born Again – collecting issues #227 to #233 from the 1986 Daredevil run, written by Frank Miller and drawn by David Mazzucchelli.

In this extended breakdown, we take a long, winding look at the dismantling and resurrection of Matt Murdock, the defining portrayal of the Kingpin as a true menace, and the raw, uncompromising misery that Miller lathers onto every page. From gritty noir influences to intense Catholic imagery (and a nun who may or may not be Matt’s mammy), we discuss the themes, legacy, and visuals of this masterwork – all while occasionally slandering Foggy Nelson and wondering what the hell Nuke is doing here.

We also cover:

• The real golden age of Daredevil (hint: not the 1930s)
• Karen Page’s tragic arc and women in 1980s comics
• The influence of Miller’s crime storytelling and cinematic layouts
• A very sweaty Kingpin in Speedos beating up six lads
• What happens when a Daredevil comic becomes a Captain America comic
• Shared universe highs and lows
• And why Frank Miller definitely, absolutely, maybe just hates joy

Plus, we ask the big questions: Did Miller create the heavy render era or just ride the wave? Is this still the definitive Daredevil story? And why won’t Foggy just stop being the worst?

This is a bumper episode, so get comfy, roll your eyes at how miserable it all is, and join us for one of the bleakest but most brilliant stories in superhero history.

If you’ve got thoughts on Born Again or just want to shout at us for our hot takes, join the Collecting Issues Discord (link below) and let us know. Don’t forget to subscribe, rate, and share – and stay tuned for next month’s pick: Eight Billion Genies by Charles Soule and Ryan Browne!

00:00 Introduction to Collecting Issues

00:38 Podcast Banter and Updates

00:56 Comic Book Discussions and Recommendations

03:34 Introduction to Daredevil: Born Again

04:35 Frank Miller's Influence on Daredevil

07:00 Daredevil's Origin and Evolution

10:26 Frank Miller's Artistic Style

16:06 Born Again: Plot and Themes

32:13 David Mazzucchelli's Art in Born Again

38:22 Frank Miller's Complex Relationship with Women

39:01 Karen Page: The Fallen Woman Archetype

39:33 MAGA Hats and Modern Politics

40:23 Catholicism in Daredevil's Narrative

44:03 The Dismantling of Matt Murdock

51:28 Kingpin's Menacing Presence

58:23 Nuke and the Military Industrial Complex

01:11:22 Final Thoughts and Reflections

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Doom Endures: A look into Marvel's Doom #1 Giant-Sized One Shot

In this episode of Collecting Issues, the Monthly Comic Book Book Club reviews 'Doom Number One Giant Sized One Shot' by Jonathan Hickman and Sanford Greene. Hosts Michael and Benjamin discuss the complex character of Doctor Doom, the epic narrative, and the stunning artwork. They explore the connections between this comic and previous works by Hickman, the depiction of Galactus, and the comic's tribute to MF Doom. The episode also touches on the broader Marvel Universe, featuring appearances from numerous Marvel characters, and delves into the influence and legacy of Doctor Doom in both the comic and pop culture. Join in for a comprehensive discussion packed with humour, deep insights, and a love for all things comic book-related.

00:00 Introduction to Collecting Issues

00:07 Overview of Doom Number One

01:41 Jonathan Hickman and Sanford Greene's Collaboration

03:37 Sanford Greene's Inspiration and Love for Doctor Doom

04:10 Doctor Doom: Marvel's Batman

05:50 MF Doom and His Connection to Doctor Doom

11:01 The History and Evolution of Doctor Doom

23:45 Galactus: The Silent Annihilator

25:59 Epic Battles and Artistic Brilliance

31:02 Dr. Doom's Magical Transformation

31:54 Valeria's War Armour for Doom

32:26 Galactus and the Cosmic Threat

35:40 Marvel's Cosmic Showdown

48:16 Doom's Final Monologue and Conclusion

50:37 Final Thoughts and Wrap-Up

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Friday by Ed Brubaker, Marcos Martín, and Muntsa Vicente - Collecting Issues Book Club

In this episode of Collecting Issues, we read all of 'Friday,' books 1, 2, and 3 which comprise issues 1 to 9 of the 2020 Image Comics series by Ed Brubaker, Marcos Martín, and Múnze Vicente. Our hosts dissect the comic's intricate plot, characterized by its mix of grounded young adult themes, eldritch horrors, and unexpected time travel twists. They discuss the development of characters, especially Friday and Lancelot Jones, the evolving comic's mythology, and how the thematic elements blend together. Accompanied by Guy’s thoughtful review from the Collecting Issues Discord, this deep dive blends humor, analysis, and a shared enthusiasm for the comic medium.

00:00 Introduction to Collecting Issues: Friday Series Overview

00:51 The Origins and Delays of the Friday Series

04:21 Community Engagement and Discord Promotion

05:31 Elevator Pitch and Concept of Friday

07:29 Exploring Edward Gorey's Influence

09:58 Defining Young Adult Fiction

11:48 Main Characters: Lancelot Jones and Friday Fitzhugh

15:11 Setting and Time Period of the Story

17:57 Volume One: Grounded Beginnings

29:00 Gravity Falls Vibes and Influences

30:27 Book Two: On a Cold Winter's Night

31:16 Friday Fitzhugh's Investigation

33:27 The Cult and Supernatural Elements

38:46 Time Travel Twist

52:03 Final Showdown and Conclusion

54:46 Final Thoughts and Wrap-Up

Our Janruary read is: Give us your vote!

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In this episode of Collecting Issues, join us, Mick and Ben, as we dive into the 2021 DC Black Label series 'The Nice House on the Lake' by James Tynion IV and Alvaro Martínez Bueno. We take a look at the series' uniqueness and genre bending premise. The episode delves into themes like friend groups, nostalgia, and the complex character dynamics among former college friends. We unpack the enigmatic character of Walter, who may be an alien or may be a higher-dimensional being; either way, he's an emotionally damaged meddling manipulator.

We also explore the comic's meta-narrative techniques, post-apocalyptic setting, and pandemic-era reflections. The artistic strengths and narrative risks, such as resets and time jumps, are meticulously examined too.

00:00 Introduction to Collecting Issues

02:18 Discussion on The Lake House Movie

03:17 Introduction to The Nice House on the Lake

04:11 Publication and Awards

05:14 DC Black Label and Vertigo

07:10 Genre and Influences

09:39 Character Dynamics and Friend Groups

14:19 Art Style and Character Design

17:51 Meta-Narrative and Plot Twists

31:31 Character Overload and Walter's Struggles

33:01 Walter's Console and Its Implications

39:59 Coping Mechanisms in the Apocalypse

42:18 Walter's Manipulative Nature

50:07 The Uncertain Reality of the Apocalypse

59:56 Final Thoughts and Reflections

Our November read is: Friday Books 1&2 by Ed Brubaker, Marcus Martín and Munisa Vicente

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Collecting Issues is Back! Join Mick and Ben as they work their way through 'All Star Superman' by Grant Morrison, Frank Quitely, and Jamie Grant.

This episode explores the 12-issue series' themes, characters, and narratives, emphasising its Silver Age influences and the humanisation of Superman. We examine introspective moments, Superman's vision quest, and his ultimate sacrifice, drawing parallels to mythological symbols while discussing Lex Luthor's transformation and moral complexity. The cultural significance of Superman and the comic’s standalone impact on modern storytelling are highlighted. Engaging with listeners, we invite feedback and recommendations and preview our next read, 'The Nice House on the Lake.' Whether a long-time fan or new to the series, discover why this remains one of Superman’s defining stories.

• [00:00] Introduction to All Star Superman
• [00:34] Comic Book Hiatus and Return
• [02:10] Monthly Comic Book Club Format
• [02:54] October's Spooky Read
• [04:34] Superman: A Modern Take
• [05:48] The All Star Initiative
• [11:57] Superman's Cultural Impact
• [19:52] Superman's Origin Story
• [26:36] Superman's Golden and Silver Ages
• [31:48] Grant Morrison's Vision
• [41:58] The Rise of Frank Quitely
• [43:33] Superman's Subtle Heroics
• [44:55] Lois Lane's Superwoman Day
• [46:13] Grant Morrison's Silver Age Tribute
• [51:58] Lex Luthor's Gospel
• [01:01:03] The Bizarro Planet Arc
• [01:10:48] Superman's Final Will and Testament
• [01:15:22] Lex Luthor's Ultimate Betrayal of Humanity
• [01:20:19] Wrapping Up and Future Plans

Our October read is: The Nice House on the Lake by James Tynion IV and Alvaro Martinez

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The Featurette Ben Was Talking About

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Welcome to Collecting Issues. This week Mick and Ben discuss Fantastic Four Full Circle from Marvel Arts by Alex Ross, first published in 2022.

Join our Discord server and chat about this issue's comic; Collecting Issues Book Club

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Welcome to Collecting Issues. This week Mick and Ben discuss Lucifer, Vol. 2: The Divine Tragedy from DC by Dan Watters, first published in 2018.

Join our Discord server and chat about this issue's comic; Collecting Issues Book Club

Find us at www.seomrabeag.com/collectingissues

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