Tarantino Comics - Issue 46

I was hoping to reach Issue #50 before flying out to San Diego Comic Con, but I just ran out of time.  However, since I got pretty close to reaching my goal, I think I still deserve the right to attend The Hateful Eight Panel :)  Anyways, I now present Tarantino Comics #46 illustrated by Danny Haas at MegaCon 2014.

Inspired from Kill Bill, Danny drew an awesome depiction of Gogo Yubari.  Without even showing her chilling smile on her "innocent" face, Danny manifested the intense cruelty of O-Ren's personal bodyguard.

Whenever I go to a comic convention and see Danny's art, I love his ability to represent pop culture icons through very unique images (as you can see by the simple presentation of Gogo's skirt and bloody weapon).  I really enjoy his artwork and appreciate his unique eye of depicting characters.  If you want to see more of Danny's artwork, I encourage you to check out his website at http://artofdanny.com/

Tarantino Comics - Issue 45

Tonight's cover reveal is from Tarantino Comics #45 illustrated by Alex Sanchez at MegaCon 2014.

Inspired by Death Proof, this cover features a portrait of Stuntman Mike.  It's an eerie image, showing the mystery and complexity of the character.  Most recognizable is Mike's scar - A detail Alex does a terrific job emphasizing. 

The other notable feature is the cover's title.  Initially, the printed words of "Tarantino Films" bothered me quite a bit since I provide each artist a detailed page of instructions.  However, I realized the misprint resembled the essence of Grindhouse films.  Remembering the opening sequence of Death Proof, the movie was originally presented as Thunder Bolt until a black title card printed with the film's proper name was projected onto the silver screen.

Overall, I really enjoy Alex's art.  If you want to see more of his work, check out http://ironhed.tumblr.com/

Tarantino Comics - Issue 44

The final issue completed at Heroes Con 2013 was Tarantino Comics #44 illustrated by Kevin Mellon.

Inspired by Death Proof, this beautiful cover features Abernathy (Rosario Dawson) posing for the camera atop a 1972 Ford Mustang Grande.  In the film, there's a "quiet" interaction between the girls and Stuntman Mike at a convenience store.  This cover revels in that moment by showcasing the strength and beauty of Abernathy before joining in the quest for the Vanishing Point Dodge Challenger.  Kevin's detail of both actress and car are fantastic, transforming this pin-up into an absolute iconic cover image.  His presentation reminds me of a promotional shot for a movie lobby card, luring audiences into the theatre.

As you can see, Kevin is an phenomenal artist.  Even though he's not really drawing a Death Proof comic (which is unfortunate since he's great at drawing girls and cars), you get a sense of  similar theme in other projects of his including GearHead and Suicide Sisters.  To follow up on his latest posts, check out his blog at http://kevinmellon.blogspot.com/

Tarantino Comics - Issue 43

Happy Fourth of July!!! To celebrate our independence with a Kaboom, I present Tarantino Comics #43 illustrated by Bryan Mon at Heroes Con 2013.

Inspired by Kill Bill, Bryan created one of my favorite covers that captures the essence of EC Comics.  If you look at an old Wally Wood or Jack Davis cover, they're able to generate a lot of suspense and terror with their images.  Similarly, Bryan pulled off the same tension by keeping Beatrix's face hidden in the shadows while Vernita Green is holding a box of Kaboom Cereal.  Along with fantastic and colorful art, Bryan's title banner is beautifully accompanied by amazing font.

If you can't tell from this image, Bryan is a terrific artist.  In all of my sketchbooks, I have at least one Bryan Mon sketch.  He's a versatile illustrator whose style is reminiscent to the golden age, drawing anything from pin-up girls to classic cartoon characters.  I highly recommend you check out his comic character - Tuff-Girl and lookup his blog at http://monotonae.blogspot.com/

Tarantino Comics - Issue 42

Today's entry showcases Tarantino Comics #42 illustrated by Mitch Gerads at Heroes Con 2013.

Inspired by Django Unchained, Mitch captured the spirit and essence of our hero through a relatively simple image.  After witnessing a gruesome Mandingo fight, Django literally blows off the situation by partaking in a spelling bee with Mr. Franco Nero (the original Django).  Mitch created a powerful expression through Django's face, showing confidence as he transforms from slave to bounty hunter.  Jamie Foxx's likeness is also extraordinary, showing Mitch's skill as an illustrator.

If you enjoy the detail and grittiness of Mitch's art, you can find some of his work at your local comic shop.  He's worked on many different projects including The Punisher and The Activity.  However, if you'd like to purchase some of his original art or just check out his blog, visit http://www.mitchgerads.com/

Tarantino Comics - Issue 41

Since my wonderful girlfriend is keeping tally, we only have 10 more days until our trip to California! As we continue our countdown to the SDCC, I present Tarantino Comics #41 illustrated by Aaron Campbell at Heroes Con 2013.

Utilizing only grey scales, Aaron created a terrific rendition of Zoe Bell holding on for dear life atop a 1970 Dodge Challenger.  With the simple swipes of a brush, we're able to visualize the kinetic energy of our heroines playing Ship's Mast during Death Proof.  Aaron displays his storytelling techniques by drawing the scene from a lower perspective, allowing this "Vanishing Point Car" to drive out of the page.  In addition to choosing a great image, Aaron has an eye for detail and line-work by showing the slick contours of both the car and our lovable stunt woman.

If you think Aaron's art looks like something from an old crime strip, you would not be wrong.  Aaron has done a lot of fantastic work at Dynamite Entertainment, illustrating titles such as The Shadow, Green Hornet, and Dark Shadows.  So if you get a chance, go to your local comic shop and pick up some old back issues or trades.  In the meantime, you can catch more glimpses of Aaron's work on his Twitter Account at https://twitter.com/olmancampbell

Tarantino Comics - Issue 40

The final cover completed at CGS Super Show 2013 was Tarantino Comics #40 illustrated by Art Baltazar.

If you're not familiar with Art's work, it's extremely kid friendly.  So for the guy who created Patrick the Wolf Boy, I never believed in a million years I'd see him recreate a scene from Pulp Fiction... until you get to know him.  When I first started going to comic conventions in 2007, Art was one of the first people I got sketches from.  For a dollar, not only do you get a sketch of any character you want, but you get an entertaining conversation with one of the coolest guys in the comic industry. 

Since he's highly knowledgeable of both comics and movies, Art whipped up this fun piece featuring Butch's famous words to Esmeralda Villalobos.  While creating this awesome addition to the Tarantino Comics line, Art made sure to cover up the word balloon to shield the eyes of young children waiting in line for their Tiny Titans sketches - What a Guy!

If you have kids, stop by your local comic shop and pick up some comics by Art and Franco (believe me, you'll enjoy them as well).  If you're still unsure about his art, check out his website at http://www.artbaltazar.com/ .  Finally, if you have a long commute, have a boring desk job, or just want something entertaining on your IPod, be sure to listen to Art and Franco's podcast, The Aw Yeah Podcast, at http://awyeah.libsyn.com/