'Nuff Said: American Graphic Media

One of the key differences between comic culture in the United States and other countries is the immaturity attached to comic books in the United States.  While we think of comics as for kids, other countries do not. Japan is perhaps the most developed and diverse landscape linked to comics. There is a comic for every genre and the entire population reads comics. Like the U.S., Japan's comic represented ideas, values, and concerns linked to the national mind. Yet, the fact that the audience is so large means the cultural narrative touches on issues of sex, politic, and culture shaping Japnese life.  Manga Mad Tokyo gives you an overview of the complex cultural dialogue linked to comics in Japan. Watch Manga Mad Tokyo Now

There is some bad buzz around Pacific Rim on the web. I suspect the possibility of a giant robot movie being awesome is too much for some people.  The internet is full of dark corners, but until we see the movie we won't know the box office.  What we can tell right now is that Idris Elba is doing his part to make the movie a success. A standout performer, Elba has made a name for himself in countless productions .  He achieve wide recognition for his turn on the big screen in films such as Thor and on the small screen in the BBC's Luther . Of course, the open question about actors of color in any film is whether not they will help or hurt the box office.  Will Smith recent disappointment with After Earth opens the door for this conversation. His lack of success sparks the question who will be the next "bankable" star of color. There can be only one! See what I did there:-)  These sentiments reflect a Hollywood centric approach that ignores Nolly...

Great to see MADHOUSE back in the Iron Man animation game!  Marvel continues to position its most popular characters in spaces where diehards and casual fans can be entertained.  MADHOUSE provides the kind of anime style that will appeals to fans of Giant Robot and similar Asian inspired pop culture in the United States.  The roots of that devotion run deep.  Regardless, this kind of synergy can only help Iron Man 3.