http://search.deviantart.com/?q=by:SpringyNinja&section=today deviantART RSS for by:SpringyNinja en-us Copyright 2009, deviantART.com Tue, 08 Dec 2009 06:00:52 PST deviantART.com http://blogs.law.harvard.edu/tech/rss http://s.deviantart.com/minish/widgets/apple-touch-icon-precomposed.png http://SpringyNinja.deviantart.com/journal/19211802/ http://SpringyNinja.deviantart.com/journal/19211802/ Sat, 05 Jul 2008 00:39:47 PDT
It's hard to believe it's been over a year since I last updated my DeviantART journal, and even longer since I was posting regularly!

When I was here often, I had the opportunity to chat and converse with some great, supportive people! I don't know how many of you are still out there, but it would be greatly appreciated if everyone could get behind The Kirby Martin Inquest!

Contrary to the ad on the front page, the comic is now on sale for the special price of only $1.99! That's a full-size twenty-two page B&W comic featuring cover art by *ghrendal!

Every sale is incredibly important and greatly appreciated!
You can find online purchase links and other information at [link]

Many thanks, guys!
- Mike Haseloff

]]> ~SpringyNinja http://SpringyNinja.deviantart.com/journal/12536638/ http://SpringyNinja.deviantart.com/journal/12536638/ Tue, 10 Apr 2007 08:31:11 PDT finally wrapped on the first issue of The Kirby Martin Inquest. Waiting on a couple of things, and then printing will be the go.

Hopefully you'll hear from me again, soon.

]]> ~SpringyNinja http://SpringyNinja.deviantart.com/journal/9779518/ http://SpringyNinja.deviantart.com/journal/9779518/ Sat, 19 Aug 2006 06:26:12 PDT Just a quick reminder to any letterers who might be passing by, that I'd greatly appreciate assistance in the matter.

This would include cover, interior letterering, and perhaps the formating of an editorial page of text/images. These would be required to be gathered into a single print-ready PDF as per printer requirements and specifics.

Full credit will be noted and in print, but this is for experience/joy.
Alas, there simply is no money at the present time.

mike@nitelitetheatre.com if you're interested.
Thank you very much!

- Mike Haseloff ]]> ~SpringyNinja http://SpringyNinja.deviantart.com/journal/9592713/ http://SpringyNinja.deviantart.com/journal/9592713/ Thu, 03 Aug 2006 22:57:25 PDT
Well, it had to happen eventually, didn't it?
The Kirby Martin Inquest - oft referred to as 'in the making,' is finally approaching the final stages of creation.

It's probably been more than a month now since Pedro Cruz, my ever-swell collaborator and beast of burden, completed the art chores on the first issue of KMI.
Believe it or not, despite my consistent moaning over the last few years, it was actually me who ultimately took a turn at holding things up.

Having had a long time to fret and over analyze, KMI entered a state of flux. On top of several various conceptual changes before final scripts were written, the project took on all new forms as the art was being completed.

When the pages were done, I was still disatissfied, and the saga continued -- until now.

For better or for worse, the Kirby Martin Inquest first issue script is again - finished. Whether or not the drastic re-write was worth it, will be up to readers and time to decide.

So, what now?

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Letterer wanted!
I'm now officially in the market for a digital letterer.
Experience is preferred, but not vital.
Letterer should be versed and capable of creating professionally lettered pages, compiled into a print-ready PDF as per printer requirements.

Enthusiasm is a must, because as always, there just isn't any money here.
This is purely an opportunity to work for personal joy, for my joy, for Pedro's joy, and/or for the thrill and gratification of having your name and work in print.

If anyone's interested, they should be sure to e-mail me: mike@nitelitetheatre.com

Lettering is the final step in the process, and it will be sped into print as soon as possible. Lettering will also require cover work, and possible design and layout of an editorial page.

Willingness to take direction is a must.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

With KMI wrapping up, I'll now be trying to tackle other projects more seriously, while we break and prepare art for the second issue of KMI.

These projects will chiefly involve short stories, which I hope will enable greater collaboration with talented and enthusiastic up-and-coming artists.
One of the purposes of the short story projects is to really put out a gallery of talent, which just happens to do EXACTLY as I tell it in story format.

Dictator jokes aside, it's a thrill to have a project close to completion, and I hope this will help the process of finding willing and interesting collaborators.

Cheers, guys!
I'll keep you posted!

- Mike Haseloff
Nite Lite Theatre ]]> ~SpringyNinja http://SpringyNinja.deviantart.com/journal/8329826/ http://SpringyNinja.deviantart.com/journal/8329826/ Sat, 01 Apr 2006 03:02:05 PST
Well, it's once again been a long tenure. Sadly my DeviantART submission has once again run out, so I'm back on free-street. Which is a lot harder than you can ever imagine. One of these days I'm going to get means to be able to purchase things online... until then:

Wow! 4000 hits!
Way back in October of 2004 when I was desperate for hits, I would see a lot of pages with four thousand, and think that I would never reach that number.
Thanks for proving me wrong, guys! I really appreciate that!

Of course, I'm still disgracefully desperate for hits, so keep 'em coming!

Obviously my output on DeviantART has been a lot slower lately. That makes those of you still checking the page out all the more super!

I'm pleased to report that overall I haven't been completely stagnent.
Most recently, with help from ~PedroCruz I recently offered up the free online short story, The Spirit of Chernobyl!
You can check it out by visiting Nite Lite Theatre, and hitting the star on the main page (or the SHOWING page, if that's not working for you).

The story introduces The Semite, a character I've been cooking for a while, in a short but sweet tale that highlights the kinder, lighter nature of the character.
It's very nice to finally have something finished, even if it's small.

I'm hoping to include this story in an anthology collection, and am doing my best to recruit more exciting artistic talents to help me do it. More on that, no doubt, when it becomes available!

:thumb26137994:

A while back you may also remember me posting a page from a fun minicomic jam project. That project can now be read in it's entirety for free also! Rocket Ninja, interestingly enough, was a character that had nothing to do with me. No Springy connection!

Although, I am still hoping to bring Springy Ninja to the printed page, so if you've been with us since the pixel toons, stay tuned for that!

That's probably just about enough of me whoring myself!
If you're looking for me, be sure to visit other stops on the misguided mystery tour! Many thanks for the four thousand, and here's to four thousand more!

Oh, and if anyone's going to be at Blockbuster sometime soon, can you please make sure they know I didn't steal The Pianist? Cheers!

- Mike Haseloff
The ill-conceived Haseloffverse:
Nite Lite Theatre - The OR - Secret Wars on Infinite Earths ]]> ~SpringyNinja http://SpringyNinja.deviantart.com/journal/7832929/ http://SpringyNinja.deviantart.com/journal/7832929/ Tue, 07 Feb 2006 20:54:34 PST
I hope everyone is well! I'm just spiffy, indeedy.

I thought my journal had been left on an easily misconstrued thread long enough, and decided it was time to update. Hopefully you don't mind.

So, what's going on? Right now I'm endeavoring to put together a series of short stories that will be published online at Nite Lite Theatre for your viewing pleasure. There is some debate about whether or not these stories will see print, but for the time being it's just going to be some light entertainment showcasing the talents of various artists, and the characters therein.

Of course, nothing is certain, but for the time being we've got our fingers crossed that things will go smoothly. At the time being three short stories are 'in production', and I will no doubt be delivering updates on their progress as they become available.

If you would, feel free to post enthusiasm to spur those involved on toward completion! Some very talented artists are involved, and I hope to have the opportunity to share my stories with you, through their fantastic pages.

Other than that... not much going on.
Finally got around to seeing Elektra, and gasp, wheez -- it's not as bad as some would have you believe. Not the best an Elektra film could've been, but still not a bad flick!

I've managed to whittle my DeviantWATCH list from about two thousand, down to five hundred and fifty-seven. It's going to be a little overwhelming to comment on each piece, but I'm certainly looking through every single entry with interest, and will be favouriting accordingly soon.
I might even update my journal with some of my favourite favourites, so everyone else can share in them.

Until then, I thought I might post my top twenty deviations as ranked by pageviews, just because I like those kinds of stats. I will only have access to them until March, when my DeviantART membership runs out.
Any kind souls out there should feel entirely welcome to renew it, even though I cannot repay them. Ordinarily I'm not one to ask, but god damn... once you've had it this way, you cannot go back!

All the best!
Thanks to everyone still visiting this corner of my ill-conceived universe, and more so to those viewing each deviation, and even dropping comments. I appreciate you more than you'll know, and in times of creative darkness, these little drops help!

http://SpringyNinja.deviantart.com/journal/7532537/ Sat, 07 Jan 2006 04:20:40 PST CAUTION: The following post is written with an air of sly humor, and should be praised for it's clever delivery, and not despised for it's hurtful remarks. You big stinking jerk faces... EVERYONE's a critic! Oh yeah?! Well, when's it gonna be MY time?! Fuck you Jerry Bruckheimer! You, and Michael Bay! You bastards! I have substance, you sellout pricks!...

It's me! Again!

This is a little late, but I just wanted to send out a big thank you to everyone who made my three thousandth pageview possible. It's really fantastic and I appreciate it, and hopefully I'll get three thousand more real soon. No really, I mean, like... by the end of next week. Got it?

So anyway, I'm a real true blue member of DA again for a couple more months, and I have to shout out a big thank you to my good friend =deviouselite for that. She's a super swell gal, and has a lot of fantastic photographs to check out.

You should really try to say more than, "HOT!!!" or "I'd hit it..." too, because that probably goes without saying, you net surfing nerds. Try and offer some constructive criticisms, or at least pretend to be interested in the lighting...

So, what am I doing? Well... a couple of very unsuccessful deviations aside, I'm still chipping away at breaking into comics. ~PedroCruz is still seven pages away from completing the first issue of The Kirby Martin Inquest, and will probably remain that way for some time while he works on bigger projects.
The issue will unfortunately no longer be able to beat Kevin Smith's final entries in Spider-man/Black Cat: The Evils Men Do. Thanks, Kev.

~PedroCruz has been toying with the idea of working out an old short story script featuring two of my many characters, so that might pop up sometime in the near future as a long overdue update to Nite Lite Theatre.com.

I'm also working on a series of other new concepts, putting a whole slew of older concepts on various burners. Unfortunately we ran out of burners on the back, so many of them have inadvertantly fallen on various burners of different tier, some closer to the front than others.

One such idea may even rework the contents of a short story written for Ronin Studio's (as ever, not to be confused with the artist's group, Studio Ronin) anthological horror series, Varied Scaries.

For those out of the loop: that particular piece fell through the gaps when I disagreed with a business ethic that saw an unknown publisher asking me as an unknown writer to pay them for the script.
Unreasonable of me, I know.

I think all is forgiven and forgotten, but regardless, I'd still like to thank Tweedle-Dee and Tweedle-Dum for the experience. (They're both named Thomas. It's a joke.).
With a couple of edits, I'll have gotten a half decent idea out of the exercise, so... there you go. This way everyone's a winner!

Oh, if I'm spotaneously black listed from the industry, you know why, too. TELL THE PEOPLE!!! scar moment:

Anyway, if anything's coming out, no doubt you'll hear about it.

Seeing some great art, and desperately trying to catch up on the thousands of images in my WatchBox. Less commenting, and more favouriting, because it's a fucking intimdating mountain of talent! THOUSANDS!!!

Keep up the great work, everyone.

Thanks for visiting and putting up with my... mild mannered... antics.
I'll see you again real soon, you've been a wonderful audience.

Now, I'll end on a song.
Seriously, I think I'm really getting my Bob Dylan tribute down... you just put a bendy emphasis on every fifth word, and make words with an A in them sound like fingers scratching a chalk board!

Yours sinisterly,
"Iron" Mike Haseloff

]]> ~SpringyNinja http://SpringyNinja.deviantart.com/journal/7249164/ http://SpringyNinja.deviantart.com/journal/7249164/ Wed, 07 Dec 2005 17:10:00 PST
Thanks to the few who responded to the previous call for help.
Due to some pretty trivial reasons the short story isn't going ahead, so sorry to those interested. There's a very good chance the script will be adapted into something else at a future date.

I'm looking at something new for myself, but things are still pretty stagnant.
In the distant future I may again take up the hunt for an artist, but no idea when that'll be.

If anyone's looking for a writer, feel free to drop me a note.

If anyone wants to make me a subscribed member to DA, feel free to keep giving!

Cheers guys!
Thanks to those still visiting the page!

Some new Deviations uploaded now, too. ]]> ~SpringyNinja http://SpringyNinja.deviantart.com/journal/7060265/ http://SpringyNinja.deviantart.com/journal/7060265/ Wed, 16 Nov 2005 02:37:03 PST

Anyway, a few days ago I was offered a replacement spot on the Ronin Studios (not to be confused with artist group, Studio Ronin) anthology comic, Varied Scaries.

This is the last issue in the short series, which revolves around a small collection of horror stories, each borrowing a thread from the previous.

I'm currently working on a script to be finished as soon as possible.
I'm interested in artists who have a style balanced somewhere between cartoony and realistic, with an ability to work well with stark black and white, be open to direction, and versatile with subject matters.
Ability or knowledge of drawing mechanics is a bonus.

Work for exposure, with no expenses.
The story will be no longer than ten pages.

If you're interested contact me at mike@nitelitetheatre.com.
The position could fill anytime from now, so the sooner the better.

Many thanks!

- Mike Haseloff
Nite Lite Theatre ]]> ~SpringyNinja http://SpringyNinja.deviantart.com/journal/7010612/ http://SpringyNinja.deviantart.com/journal/7010612/ Thu, 10 Nov 2005 15:40:05 PST Thought I'd post one last time before my membership runs out to DA.

I'm not at all abandoning DA, but definitely on hiatus.
Creative drought, and immense frustration with the comics medium, and difficulty in finding willing collaborators are largely the cause for this.

I'm sure when it's over I'll emerge in full force again, but for the time being, the few ideas that do come are extremely difficult to stay enthusiastic about.

I'm now available also at MySpace, but not really sure why. I blame peer pressure.

Thanks to everyone still watching, and stay tuned for updates, and glorious art!

- Mike Haseloff

]]> ~SpringyNinja http://SpringyNinja.deviantart.com/journal/6886629/ http://SpringyNinja.deviantart.com/journal/6886629/ Thu, 27 Oct 2005 21:46:31 PDT The Springy Ninja Returns

... spectacular finish to the Neuman Elimination, as the Ferris 6000 pinwheeled across the finish line, a flaming coffin for Bruce Wayne...



... or so everyone thought. Turns out the millionaire bailed out at the last second. Suffered only superficial burns, Lola?

Ta da! I'm back!

Been on a bit of a hiatus from DeviantART.
Checking it from time to time, but generally not doing much, and quite obviously, not updating with Suppositions.
The suppositions might return at a later date, but right now I'm just cruising after being unwell, and having my HDD crash for a second time in the last few months.

I notice my membership for DA is about to run out, which kinda sucks, because I've enjoyed the freedoms and minor benefits being a member presents. I don't have any way to pay online, so if someone wants to take pity on me and keep me a member, I will... post a little hug emoticon on their page!

Still working on making comics, but having little to no success.
If any artists are interested in getting printed for exposure, rather than cash on the barrel, then be sure to contact me.

Last thing... big thanks to everyone still visiting my page, and commenting!
I'm pleasantly surprised to see that not only have I crossed 2,500 pageviews, but I've also had my first deviation to cross 200 views!



Not what I'd call one of my best, by any means, but I guess that proves the staying power of Tekken, and the popularity of sappy anime characters.

I went to pretty drastic lengths to try to build an audience, and I'm pleased to see they haven't all dropped off.
Cheers guys, I really appreciate it!

- Mike Haseloff
Nite Lite Theatre

]]> ~SpringyNinja http://SpringyNinja.deviantart.com/journal/6703153/ http://SpringyNinja.deviantart.com/journal/6703153/ Fri, 07 Oct 2005 10:47:15 PDT SPRINGY NINJA: A YEAR LONG DEVIANT

Today we are gathered to ponder, philosophize and celebrate the first anniversary of Springy Ninja's arrival on the planet DeviantArt.

As you can imagine, when we put the word out to many of =SpringyNinja's celebrity friends that he was celebrating his first anniversary on DA, the response was prompt. Absolutely none of them want anything to do with =SpringyNinja, and deny any association whatsoever with him.
Because of that, these are just some of the people you won't be hearing from tonight...: Quentin Tarantino, Chuck Norris, Ben Affleck, Salma Hayek, and Irish folk-pop sensation, The Corrs.
Rob Schneider wanted to be involved, but let's be honest, we know which way the wind's blowing on his career, and there's no way he's dragging us down with him! Say hi to Pauly Shore for us, Rob.

Anyway, stay with us, as we take a look back through the long year behind us, and try to score =SpringyNinja some more page views, favourites and comments along the way. Yeah, that's right... it's that kind of journal entry.

So, with such an illustrious time on DA behind him, where better to start than =SpringyNinja himself, discussing the origins of his username?

I guess it's a two-fold story, because there's a reason for the name, and then there's a reason for using it on DeviantArt.

In 1999 British Comedian Ross Noble was touring Australia, and he was a guest on a popular programme called Good News Week, which was essentially a two-sided panel debate comedy show revolving around news headlines.
Through the madness, as is classic Noble, eventually things devolved into the discussion of a ninja... a springy ninja (who would be accompanied by a sticky dog, quite naturally).

Shortly after that, being the industrious young fellow I was, I jumped on to Ross Noble's website and e-mailed him about the show. I had been looking at doing a cartoon strip, and thought the idea presented some potential results.
A prompt reply from Mr. Noble offered free reign to use the wacky idea, and interest in seeing what came of it.



About five years later there was a competition to present some sort of entertaining journal about life, in any format. For whatever reason, this resulted in one, two, and then three silly little six panel pixel cartoon strips, which had absolutely no relevence to true life at all.
Needless to say, I didn't win the competition - but I DID finally have an idea for Springy Ninja!

And so -- a legend was born!

AHEM... as I was saying, before I was so rudely interrupted... I finally had an idea for Springy Ninja.
I showed the cartoon strips to a few friends, and in the tradition of a long forgotten comic strip I had done years earlier, The Mormon and Gay Chef Show, I moved ahead with parody and celebrity gags.

Eventually *adamguest1985 sold me on DeviantART, a website I had tended to avoid, and I've been =SpringyNinja ever since!

This series of cartoon strips, dubbed Ultimate Mike Haseloff M.D., would then go on to parody some of the greatest moments in comics and television.
First up, the Marvel comics summer event, Avengers Disassembled, was on the chopping block. Little did =SpringyNinja know, but his follow up to the death of one of the main characters would be ahead of it's time, predicting events in the follow... ]]> ~SpringyNinja http://SpringyNinja.deviantart.com/journal/6684948/ http://SpringyNinja.deviantart.com/journal/6684948/ Wed, 05 Oct 2005 08:18:10 PDT SPRINGY SUPPOSITIONS: Ninja Watch

Sorry I didn't get here sooner, folks.

Springy Suppositions will not be seen this week.
I've been a little more stressed than I should be, with an overseas guest spending a lot of time here, so I just haven't had the clarity of mind to bring you all the news.

I did manage to get a page done for a mini-comic collaboration, that will hopefully make it's way into my gallery in the not too distant future.
Few other things on the go.

With any luck, Springy Suppositions should return to it's regular Sunday/Monday schedule next week.

Thanks, guys.

Keep commenting on my art too!

- Mike Haseloff
Nite Lite Theatre

SPRINGY SOURCES:
Many thanks to: Buzzscope, Comic Book Resources, DC Comics, Diamond Distributors, Internet Movie Database, Marvel Comics & Newsarama. ]]> ~SpringyNinja http://SpringyNinja.deviantart.com/journal/6596084/ http://SpringyNinja.deviantart.com/journal/6596084/ Sun, 25 Sep 2005 06:14:50 PDT SPRINGY SUPPOSITIONS: Ninja Watch

Well, this is going to be a pretty jam packed edition of Springy Suppositions, so you might want to get comfortable!

Just in case you're a savvy reader who likes to know what you're getting into before you jump face first into it, a quick rundown.
Some big news on super hero movie sequels, including Joker casting and some exciting news about a scene in the third of the X-Men movies.
Some big news also for Hellboy fans regarding a new mini-series, plus all the usual excitement of the Diamond list for next week, and top four free previews.

Then, after all that's done it's art galore, with the biggest springy self-promotion you will ever see, I'm sure. There's that, another talented DA springy superstar, and a new segment just for fun, that will count down to a new champ.

Why am I bringing you all this excitement free of charge? Because I'm trying to win your support over, so that when my comic is published I can convince you all to buy it. It's just that simple!

SPRINGY SCRAPS:
- Diamond Distribution List:
JUL050190D BATMAN #645 $2.50
JUL050198D BATMAN JOURNEY INTO KNIGHT #2 (OF 12) $2.50
JUL050017D BPRD THE BLACK FLAME #2 (OF 6) $2.99
JUL050195D CATWOMAN #47 $2.50
JUL051875D DAREDEVIL #77 $2.99
JUL051880D DEFENDERS #3 (OF 5) $2.99
JAN042809E DRAGONBALL Z SHONEN J ED VOL 15 TP $7.95
JUL051879D DRAX THE DESTROYER #1 (OF 4) $2.99
JUL050224D FLASH #226 $2.50
JUN051789D INVINCIBLE #26 $2.99
JUL050235D JLA #119 $2.50
JUL050237D JLA CLASSIFIED #12 $2.99
JUL051876D NEW AVENGERS #11 $2.50
JUL051905D NIGHTCRAWLER #10 $2.99
JUL051894D OFFICIAL HANDBOOK MARVEL UNIVERSE ALTERNATE UNIVERSES 2005 $3.99
JUL051924D RUNAWAYS VOL 4 TRUE BELIEVERS DIGEST TP $7.99
JUL051877D SENTRY #1 (OF 8) $2.99
AUG053245 STREET FIGHTER ETERNAL CHALLENGE TP UDON ED $34.99
JUL052751F TRUE STORY SWEAR TO GOD #15 $2.95
STAR18051 ULTIMATE X-MEN VOL 1 HC $29.99
JUL051931D WOLVERINE ENEMY OF THE STATE VOL 1 TP $14.99

Newsbytes:
- What if... Marvel Released Another Wave?
Ask this question, no more! A brand new wave of What if... issues is on the way, just as the final of the last wave (Wha Huh?!) hits shelves.

The upcoming titles will feature: Daredevil in feudal Japan; the Fantastic Four as Russian Cosmonauts; the Sub-Mariner raised on land by his father; Thor, herald of Galactus; Captain America in the civil war; and Wolverine as cleaning up the mob riddled streets.

Creators on the books include Robert Kirkman, Greg Pak, Daniel Way, Mike Oeming, Rick Veitch and more.
Look for these titles in December, from Marvel comics.

- Hellboy: Darkness Calls in China
Hellboy will be distributed for the first time in China, looking to break new ground in foreign markets. The move follows Dark Horses' initiative to break into the Chinese free markets with their range of Star Wars books.

Hellboy will be appearing in a new mini-series called Darkness Calls, written by Mike Mignola. The big news is that he will be pencilled by Lee Bermejo.

- Diamond Shuns Small Press
Diamond Distributors revealed a week and a half ago that they will be implementing an initiative to cull unprofitable comics from the Previews catalogue.

"Currently, Diamond’s benchmark for comics and trades listed in their respective section in Previews stands at $1500 wholesale per purchase order issued to the publisher. The new cutoff threshold will be 40% of that, or $600 wholesale."

There's a lot more said about it, but that's the crux of it. It means bad news for a lot of small press creators, who might not be as 'profitable'.

- Shadowhawk: Wind Beneath His Wing
The creative changes for Jim Valentino's Shadowhawk continue, with the announcement of new on-going artist, Ted Wing! Wing, best known to DeviantArtists as *ghrendal will be taking the chores as part of an initiative to shake away the negative stigma the title has carried with it in reflection of it's less than stellar history in the 90's.

Free Previews:
- Daredevil #77: [link]
- Defenders #3: [link]
- Drax: The Destroyer #1: [link]
- The Sentry #1: [link]

SPRINGY SCREEN:
- The Last Laugh Looming?
Rumors are strong... ]]> ~SpringyNinja http://SpringyNinja.deviantart.com/journal/6541653/ http://SpringyNinja.deviantart.com/journal/6541653/ Mon, 19 Sep 2005 16:30:39 PDT SPRINGY SUPPOSITIONS: Ninja Watch

Hey, hey Deviants!

There's been a flu-virus going around, and so far I've managed to avoid it, but my stomach has been as Bangalore as it comes, so I definitively bumped Ninja Watch back to Monday to give me time.

MEANWHILE -- 2000 pageviews! Thanks a lot guys, that's really fantastic!
As I mentioned last time, in the next Ninja Watch I'll break down the performance of each Ninja Watch, and I'll be doing it by the amount of page views that have occurred on each week. So, this is 'episode' is the last chance to make an impact, and the traffic this week could make or break Ninja Watch!
Ooooh, now that's aggressive marketing!

A little bit of restructuring, and plenty of news. Feel free to drop a shout out.

SPRINGY SCRAPS:
- Diamond Distribution List:
JUL050192D BATMAN GOTHAM KNIGHTS #69 $2.50
JUL050199D BATMAN JEKYLL AND HYDE #6 (OF 6) $2.99
JUN051979D CAPTAIN AMERICA #10 $2.99
JUL051874D DAREDEVIL FATHER #3 (OF 5) $2.99
JUL051854D EXILES #70 $2.99
JUL051929D EXILES VOL 11 TIME BREAKERS TP $17.99
JUL050026D GOON #14 $2.99
JUL050227D GREEN LANTERN CORPS RECHARGE #1 (OF 6) $3.50
JUL058032D JSA CLASSIFIED #2 SECOND PTG $2.50
JUL050239D JSA CLASSIFIED #3 $2.50
STAR19532 JSA VOL 5 STEALING THUNDER TP $14.95
JUL050241D MANHUNTER #14 $2.50
JUL050251D SEVEN SOLDIERS MISTER MIRACLE #1 (OF 4) $2.99
JUL058232D SUPERMAN IN THE FIFTIES TP NEW PTG $19.99
JUL051855D ULTIMATE FANTASTIC FOUR #23 $2.50
JUL051858D ULTIMATES 2 #8 $2.99
JUL051873D WOLVERINE #32 $2.50

- Sales Figures:
Quite obviously, there hasn't been any opportunity to do this yet, but everyone month the sales figures come in, and give everyone a chance to mull over the top 300 selling books and see how things are going.
Because there's limited space here, each month there'll only be the top 30 available here, but if you visit some of the comic pages in the sources footer, you should be able to find the full 300.

Comic-book Title Issue Price Publisher Est. sales
1 Justice 1 $2.99 DC 190,400
2 New Avengers 8 $2.50 Marvel 156,000
3 New Avengers 9 $2.50 Marvel 145,700
4 House of M 5 $2.99 Marvel 140,700
5 Astonishing X-Men 12 $2.99 Marvel 125,800
6 Supergirl 1 $2.99 DC 123,400
7 Green Lantern 3 $2.99 DC 108,500
8 Green Lantern 4 $2.99 DC 96,900
9 OMAC Project 5 $2.50 DC 94,000
10 JLA 117 $2.50 DC 88,000
11 Uncanny X-Men 463 $2.50 Marvel 87,600
12 Villains United 4 $2.50 DC 84,700
13 Ultimate s Annual 1 $3.99 Marvel 82,700
14 Ultimate Iron Man 3 $2.99 Marvel 77,400
15 X-Men 174 $2.50 Marvel 76,300
16 Ultimate X-Men 62 $2.50 Marvel 76,200
17 Wolverine 31 $2.50 Marvel 75,600
18 Ultimate Spider-Man 81 $2.50 Marvel 75,600
19 Rann Thanagar War 4 $2.50 DC 75,100
20 Teen Titans 27 $2.50 DC 74,800
21 Amazing Spider-Man 523 $2.50 Marvel 72,000
22 Day of Vengeance 5 $2.50 DC 71,900
23 Ultimate Fantastic Four 22 $2.50 Marvel 71,800
24 Ultimate Spider-Man Annual 1 $3.99 Marvel 70,800
25 Ultimate X-Men Annual 1 $3.99 Marvel 67,900
26 Young Avengers 6 $2.99 Marvel 67,500
27 Spider-Man House of M 3 $2.99 Marvel 67,200
28 Batman 643 $2.50 DC 66,400
29 Batman 644 $2.50 DC 65,100
30 Fantastic Four House of M 2 $2.99 Marvel 61,500

EDIT: The top thirty previously included was incorrect.
Apologies to anyone who was unnecessarily excited by the dramatic rise in sales. This was a complete misreading!

- Newsbytes:
Ultimate Hulk and Wolverine Get Lost
Leinil Francis Yu will lend his gritty pencils to Wolverine again after a lengthy break, with the upcoming Ultimate Hulk versus Wolverine six issue mini-series from Marvel.

The punchline is that co-creator of the hit series, Lost, will be writing.
Damon Lindeloff, a self-professed comic fan, promises multiple nods to Incredible Hulk #181, the first appearance of Wolverine, and a book he himself owned.

Crisis of Crisis'
Marv Wolfman, veteran writer involved with the 1980's maxi-series event, Crisis on Inifinite Earths, will write a story for the upcoming Infinite Crisis Secret Files. The story will directly link the original Crisis, and the upcoming Infinite Crisis.

Yeah, I'll leave it at that, otherwise things are gonna get REALLY confusing.

- Free Previews:
Captain America #1... ]]> ~SpringyNinja http://SpringyNinja.deviantart.com/journal/6482343/ http://SpringyNinja.deviantart.com/journal/6482343/ Mon, 12 Sep 2005 02:42:43 PDT SPRINGY SUPPOSITIONS: Ninja Watch

Ahoy, once again everybody!
Hopefully I've managed to post this Sunday DeviantArt time.

This is, of course, a pretty grim day being September 11.
Without being disrespectful, I'd like to avoid dwelling on that fact of the past, and carry on with the usual festivities. I hope no one minds.

SPRINGY SHOPPING:
JUL050189D ALL STAR BATMAN AND ROBIN THE BOY WONDER #2 $2.99
JUL051871D DAREDEVIL VS PUNISHER #4 (OF 6) $2.99
STAR18257 DRAGONBALL Z SHONEN J ED VOL 6 TP $7.95
STAR18258 DRAGONBALL Z SHONEN J ED VOL 7 TP $7.95
JUL050300D FABLES #41 (MR) $2.75
JUL051889D GRAVITY #4 (OF 5) $2.99
JUL050230D HAWKMAN #44 $2.50
JUN050352D IDENTITY CRISIS HC BOOKMARKET VERSION $24.99
JUL050234D JLA #118 $2.50
JUN050378D JSA CLASSIFIED #2 $2.50
JUN052055D MARVEL MASTERWORKS DOCTOR STRANGE VOL 2 NEW ED HC $49.99
JUL051896D MARVEL NEMESIS IMPERFECTS #5 (OF 6) $2.99
JUL051890D PULSE #11 $2.99
JUL051882D THOR BLOOD OATH #1 (OF 6) $2.99
APR058272 V FOR VENDETTA TP $19.99

Free Previews:
The Pulse - [link]
DD vs Punisher - [link]
Fables - [link]
Hawkman - [link]


SPRINGY SUPERSTARS: *ghrendal
There's actually a little bit of a self-serving underside to this week's Springy Superstar, but regardless of that, it's not at all undeserved.
Ted Wing, better known to DA as *ghrendal will be the featured cover artist on my oft mentioned upcoming mini-series, The Kirby Martin Inquest.

I actually found his website, igrendel.com, quite a few years ago, which was what eventually led me to contact him about doing covers.
We actually had a few problems there. I had difficulty getting a cheque to him, but to his credit, he was infinitely patient and we worked things out, which is a real testament to him.

The obvious darkness in his work, and rough savagery to it was what attracted me to his work. It's really a unique look, and I have to say, it's wonderfully captured in the cover of issue three. The first three favourites following, are the covers.

Favourites:


This is definitely a gallery worth browsing through, because the five favourite gallery here really doesn't do his stuff justice. He's really a tremendous talent!
I hope to work with him again in the future.

I have to admit, too, that it's somewhat gratifying to see the comments of appreciation from people on the deviations that are my covers. Full credit to *ghrendal for the images, but they were all initiated by a rough request, and it's exciting.
It's really great to find an artist who can take a very basic request, and spin it into something amazing. Again, full credit to *ghrendal for these images. I do not want to detract from that at all. It's just really swell to share in that!

SPRINGY SCREEN:
That 70's Venom?
Topher Grace, cast as a vil... ]]> ~SpringyNinja http://SpringyNinja.deviantart.com/journal/6419828/ http://SpringyNinja.deviantart.com/journal/6419828/ Mon, 05 Sep 2005 05:08:31 PDT SPRINGY SUPPOSITIONS: Ninja Watch

Ooo, did I make the Sunday deadline?
Cutting it pretty close this week, and needless to say, that's because I'm tired as all buggery. Still, Ninja Watch and it's new format hasn't gotten the axe yet!
[EDIT: Nope, missed out! Awwww!]

Straight away, thanks to everyone checking out what I'm doing, and dropping comments. I really appreciate that, and I'm trying to make an effort to share the love a little more, and go beyond ing stuff. Thanks a lot!

Just in case you're a little intimidated by the volume of BS here, the segments are still much the same. Next week's distribution list, media news, and yes, I'm still hanging on to celebrity birthdays. I know! I can't help myself!

SPRINGY SHOPPING: September 08, 2005
APR050327D BATMAN SUPERMAN WONDER WOMAN TRINITY TP $17.99
JUL050191 DETECTIVE COMICS #811 $2.50
STAR18257E DRAGONBALL Z SHONEN J ED VOL 6 TP $7.95
STAR18258E DRAGONBALL Z SHONEN J ED VOL 7 TP $7.95
JUL051853 EXILES #69 $2.99
JUL050285 EX MACHINA VOL 2 TAG TP (MR) $12.99
JAN050373 FABLES VOL 5 THE MEAN SEASONS TP (MR) $14.99
JUL051868 GHOST RIDER #1 (OF 6) $2.99
JUL050200 GOTHAM CENTRAL #35 $2.50
JUN051976 HOUSE OF M #6 (OF 8) $2.99
JUL051911 PUNISHER #25 (MR) $2.99
JUL050208 SHAZAM SUPERMAN FIRST THUNDER #1 (OF 4) $3.50
JUL051910 SUPREME POWER NIGHTHAWK #1 (OF 5) (MR) $2.99
JUL050254 VILLAINS UNITED #5 (OF 6) $2.50
JUL051901 X-MEN COLOSSUS BLOODLINE #1 (OF 5) $2.99
JUL050310 Y THE LAST MAN #37 (MR) $2.99

Everyone should note, because of the tragedy of Hurricane Katrina in New Orleans, comics may be delayed beyond Thursday, September 08.

(Marvel) Colossus: Bloodline #1 $2.99
(Writer) David Hine (Artist) Jorge Lucas
Fans of Joss Whedon's Astonishing X-Men will know, last year the metallic Russian made his triumphant return from death under pretty surprising circumstances!
Colossus is one of those death's in comics that should never happened, but once it had, it shouldn't be final. So, I have mixed feelings about this one.

Colossus is definitely a favourite character of mine, and it's great to have him back, especially in this context. A lot of X-Men and X-Women have found their way into the pages of solo mini-series, and on-goings, but Colossus is a guy that's been waiting for the spotlight for a while.
It's in pretty fine style that it finds it too. This has to be one of the best covers all year!

The Russian powerhouse returns to his homeland to investigate a spat of murders, which, as any return home should, reveals a shadowed villain connected to Piotr's past! [FREE PREVIEW]

(Marvel) Marvel Team-Up #12 $2.99
(Writer) Robert Kirkman (Artist) Scott Kolins
Again, I have to get the criticisms out of the way straight off the bat.
I think Scott Kolins has been doing some of his career worst work on Marvel Team-Up, and the script hasn't helped the book in general out.
There's a tradition of Marvel Team-Up, which used to be a Spider-man centric title, falling flat and eventually reaching cancellation.
Despite taking an approach that lays down a logic of continuity, the book was again looking pretty doomed.

This issue might not turn that around, but it's convinced me.
Anyone who's been reading Marvel Team-Up will be familiar with the all new super powered Skrull villain, Titannus! Titannus sounds like he's going to be a lasting threat for Marvel Team-Up, and this issue is all about his origins, which makes it a great jumping on point!

With Skrull action popping up in Runaways, this book might actually open itself up to larger ramifications in the Marvel Universe, which I think is great! Marvel Team-Up has already sung the song of many of Marvel's less publicised characters, and definitely has the potential to be a great book! [=1"FREE PREVIEW]

(DC comics) Gotham Central #35 $2.50
(Writers) Greg Rucka, Ed Brubaker (Artist) Kano
I finally managed to take the plunge into Gotham Central on my birthday in July, and I wasn't sorry. Super hero crime fiction is quickly becomi... ]]> ~SpringyNinja http://SpringyNinja.deviantart.com/journal/6348100/ http://SpringyNinja.deviantart.com/journal/6348100/ Sun, 28 Aug 2005 04:54:23 PDT SPRINGY SUPPOSITIONS: Ninja Watch

Back once again, for some more springy supposing!
Maybe I'm just a glutton for punishment, but during the week I held a poll, and an overwhelming 75% of the votes wanted to see me do this again. I know, incredible statistics right there, if I don't mention it was three to one.

In light of last week's efforts, I thought it might be nice to broaden my horizons beyond just casting the spotlight on fellow deviants. Since part of my intention here is to use my journal to enlighten the anime heavy audience of DA to my world, the world of American comics, I thought it would be good to really paint a fuller picture.

I'm going to do my best to bring more news, and more information that you might be able to use to return to the world of comics. I know there must be plenty people reading who were a part of the boom of the 1990's that saw comics reach a new high, before a new low. If I can help you come to appreciate what you once knew, in an entirely new light, that's fine by me.

SPRINGY SHOPPING: August 31, 2005
Comic fans globally look forward to one day of the week more than others. That day is Wednesday.

Wednesday has particular relevence on the comics catalogue because that's the day new comics arrive, when circumstances allow. To better inform the shopping public, I won't include the ENTIRE distribution list, but highlight some of the titles that strike me as interesting.

The information in these weekly lists will be the same each time.
The distribution number, the comic title, and the price. Hopefully this will give you everything you need to track down anything that might strike your interest.

JUN050420 ASTRO CITY THE DARK AGE #3 (OF 16) $2.99
JUN050331 BATMAN GOTHAM KNIGHTS #68 $2.50
JUN050014 BPRD THE BLACK FLAME #1 (OF 6) $2.99
JUN052025 CAPTAIN AMERICA #9 $2.99
JUN050338 CATWOMAN #46 $2.50
JUN052002 DAREDEVIL FATHER #2 (OF 5) $2.99
STAR18257E DRAGONBALL Z SHONEN J ED VOL 6 TP $7.95
JUN050373 JLA CLASSIFIED #11 $2.99
JUN051994 OFFICIAL HANDBOOK ULTIMATE MARVEL UNIVERSE 2005 $3.99
APR051946D POWERS BENDIS COVER #12 (MR) $3.95
JUN050432 SILENT DRAGON #2 (OF 6) $2.99
JUN050386 SOLO #6 $4.99
JUN052062 ULTIMATES 2 VOL 1 GODS AND MONSTERS TP $15.99
JUN052014 WHA HUH (RES) $3.99

(DC Comics) Solo #6 $4.99
(Writers) Brian Azzarello, Chuck Dixon, John Arcudi, Joe Kelly, Andrew Helfer. (Artist) Jordi Bernet
Solo has to easily be one of my top five books every time it ships.
For those unfamiliar with this daring release from DC Comics, the basic premise is simple: Every two months an issue is released dedicated to a particular artist, and features nothing but their works.

This month it's Jordi Bernet, who I have to admit I'm not terribly familiar with, but that's not a problem. In fact, I'd say that's just part of the charm of Solo as an on-going series!
Not only does it collect an anthology of short stories written by some of the most exciting talent in comics, but it also gives the reader an opportunity to sample an artist they may otherwise be completely unfamiliar with.

Anything goes in Solo, and Bernet will tackle everything from the wild west, to the Batman in his issue of Solo. Doing it with him are some of comics' brightest writing stars right now, which is just another reason this splash of something different is such a fantastic initiative from DC. [FREE PREVIEW]

(Dark Horse) BPRD: The Dark Flame #1 $2.99
(Writers) Mike Mignola, John Arcudi (Artist) Guy Davis
For years fans have been calling for an on-going dose of Hellboy and his motley crew of allies, and while that hasn't come along, Dark Horse has been serving up some fantastic treats on a semi-regular basis this year.

Bouncing off the success of BPRD: The Dead and tying in to BPRD: Plague of Frogs; this next six issue installment of the BPRD saga looks to be as exciting as the last two!

Mike Mignola returns to writing duties, accompanied by co-writer John Arcudi to revisit the events of Plague of Frogs, and they look fantastic! Guy Davis and Dave Stewart on art manages to not only live up to the hefty artist legacy of Mike Mignola's original work, but also bring a vibe all of it's own to BPRD.

A lot of folks have been better enlightened by the release of the Hellboy major motion picture, and I've seen some great Hellboy fanart on DeviantArt, so this is one I'd love... ]]> ~SpringyNinja http://SpringyNinja.deviantart.com/journal/6284756/ http://SpringyNinja.deviantart.com/journal/6284756/ Sun, 21 Aug 2005 02:33:45 PDT SPRINGY SUPPOSITIONS: Ninja Watch

Well, I've followed up with a second week of supposing, and I suppose that's a good thing because it dawned on me that I know absolutely nothing about critiquing artwork.

In fact, if it wasn't for my lengthy, long winded intro in the first Ninja Watch, I probably wouldn't have had much for you to read through. Which might have been a good thing, because I only got one comment. Thank you very freaking much, ~ScorpionBlaze.

Anyway, I'm not bitter! In fact, I'm rather grateful!
I've gotten a wonderful response from many deviants over pages of my upcoming comic mini-series, The Kirby Martin Inquest.
Thank you very much! These pages drawn by Pedro Cruz, my collaborator on the project, have garnered me the most favourites I think I've ever had. So, I'm grateful for that!

As ever I'm pottering away on various projects, and with any luck I'll find artists for them all.
A viewing of Shaun of the Dead inspired me to go back to my comedy roots, and revisit an old project called The Mormon and Gay Chef Show, which developed something of a cult following. Irreverent parody does ensue, and I'd very much like to share a concept I've had stashed away for a good few years now.

Anyway, I suppose I ought to stop padding, and get on with it.
Before I do, just a reminder to check out my favourites for a whole heap of fantastic art I've come across.
If you happen upon something you think I might like to know about, don't be afraid to give me a shoutout in the comment box!


DEVIANT GALLERY: *Dunlavey
Now is where my deficiancies as an art critic really come out, because... well, I guess because I'm actually attempting to review the art now.

Anyway, there's a chap who's relatively new to DeviantArt, but not new to many of us who have been avid readers of the much maligned, Wizard Magazine.

In the comics fanbase being 'much maligned' probably isn't really a very unusual thing, but few titles can claim the fall from grace Wizard Magazine can. Over the years they've been accused of pandering, or even being controlled by Marvel comics, and sometimes to a lesser extent, DC comics.

Whether that is true or not, Wizard still maintains it's status as the leading magazine in comics culture, and they continue to stage many of the most important conventions on the calendar. The hits keep coming for the Wizard Universe conventions with DC staging a major coup, and orchestrating a make-up between comics legend Frank Miller, and the magazine.
Unfortunately, this mended relationship, which definitively ended when Miller tore up a copy during an awards acceptance speech, hasn't done anyone any critical favours. If anything, all anyone wants to do now is rubbish Miller as a 'total sellout'.

Regardless of current affairs, Wizards success is undeniably due to their on-the-pulse references, and ability to put together a snazzy, jazzy magazine.
They absolutely could not have done this without various contributing artists, and that's how we arrive at Ryan Dunlavey (*Dunlavey).

If you've read Wizard over the last few years, you'll have seen is wacky toons peppered throughout various articles. Be it rapping Batman, or mighty movie mashes, *Dunlavey has served above and beyond the call of duty.

I admit, I'm clutching at straws here. The artwork really does speak for itself. *Dunlavey has crafted a style that's instantly recognisable, but at the same time, doesn't call attention to itself. Which is perhaps most refreshing because it isn't a typical super heroey action style.

It's fair to say that funny comicstrips are the forgotten art of the American comic book, and that makes guys like *Dunlavey worth talking about. Even if it means rambling on in a round about way, with the odd mention of their DeviantArt page.

Se... ]]> ~SpringyNinja http://SpringyNinja.deviantart.com/journal/6227334/ http://SpringyNinja.deviantart.com/journal/6227334/ Sun, 14 Aug 2005 18:07:24 PDT SPRINGY SUPPOSITIONS: Ninja Watch

You know, the thought occurs that I really don't have a lot to say here in the journal. There's a pretty healthy community atmosphere on DeviantArt, and I think that's partly due to the fusion styles of chat, message board, gallery and blog.

Now, I tried my hand at a blog, and I quickly realised I didn't have anything to say. It ended up spiraling down into my interest in celebrity birthdays, and that really didn't make for compelling reading.

So, I probably have no business trying to master the arts of the DA Journal either, but I'm having a crack. Well, having a crack in the sense that I'm going to try to use it, at least.
Not so much as a forum to talk about my boring day, or to bitch out people that upset me on message boards. Rather than a blog, I thought I'd try to perpetuate my own interests.

Since returning to DeviantArt after a recent absence (one of several), I've found myself finally starting to be welcomed into the fold.
Becoming part of the community at large brings with it two major benefits. The first, and obvious one, is that people are visiting my page on a daily basis, and are starting to comment on my art. Apart from fluffing my pathetic little ego, this also results in some nice conversation, and the odd constructive note to work from.

The other advantage comes out of this.
By having the community come to me, it means laborious clicking allows me to go to the community, finding new and exciting art and artists; which I suppose brings me to the point of these so-called, Spring Suppositions.

It doesn't take the scientific genius of Mr. Fantastic, the cosmic awareness of Silver Surfer, or even the super senses of Daredevil to figure out my interests here.

I'm a fanboy!
A total and utter thoroughbred, and I've gone to great lengths to track down as much American comic fan-art as I could, in what has otherwise been a Manga/Anime dominated community.

There's a lot more out there than I expected!
As you guys track down me, and my comic art. I track down you and other's comic art, and I'm glad that's the case, and I want to share it!

First of all, check out my favourites!
I've gone to great lengths to try to favourite as much of the very best Western style comic art I've found. Yeah, some other stuff creeps in there too. I have other interests, and then just a general appreciation for art, and guess what? You should check all those other guys out too!

For the purposes of using my Journal in some constructive manner, however, I AM going to focus on comic book, or comic bookesque artwork.

I guess this is where I should start talking about the first artist I'd like to highlight...

---

DEVIANT WATCH: ~ScorpionBlaze
There really wasn't a great deal of deliberation that had to go into deciding who I wanted to talk about for the first supposition.

In the relatively short time I've been on DeviantArt, there's been one artist in particular that not only stood out quickly, but also consistently.

I have absolutely no doubt that with my featured favourites on random rotation, you would have seen this guy's art at SOME stage. I am, as highlighted by the opening title, of course, talking about ~ScorpionBlaze.

I actually know of ~ScorpionBlaze from what used to be the MK5.org community, but has since evolved into Mortal Kombat Online.

There's a fairly steady tradition of MK fan-art in the MKO community, and some fan-art even made it's way into the video game's unlockable krypt menu. I don't know if ~ScorpionBlaze was among those included, but damned if he shouldn't have been!

Although only eighteen according to his DA profile, it's quite clear that ~ScorpionBlaze approaches his penlines with the confidence of a seasoned pro. A transition to professional comic book art is an obvious step, if it hasn't already come his way.

Influences from the East are appare... ]]> ~SpringyNinja http://SpringyNinja.deviantart.com/journal/6084502/ http://SpringyNinja.deviantart.com/journal/6084502/ Sun, 31 Jul 2005 02:44:32 PDT SPROING~!!!

I returneth from even FURTHER obscurity!
Initially it was new computer problems, but then, by extension, just plain laziness because it was such a hassle checking my e-mails for my forgotten password.

I finally made the treck back, some six months later, and that's swell.

What have I been up to in that half a year?
Well, to be honest, shit all, really, other than bitching about needing a new computer.

I'm pleased to be able to report that I'm FINALLY nearing completion of the first issue of my comic which has taken a terribly long time to put together. A busy artist never really helps these things move along, but hopefully the wait will have been worth it.

Because my PC is so shit, and I have no money to buy a new one, my new priority is to seek out a letterer. So, maybe I'll keep you posted on that saga.

I've tried to fast track a new series into production, but finding available and willing artists has been difficult, as always. Finding appropriate available artists, I should say.
I did speak to one guy, but his thumbnails proved a lack of understanding of the material, and a mismatch of styles.

So, we're back to the drawing board for now.
Waiting on one guy to free up to hopefully kick this new series off. If anyone can tell me when the end of American summer is, I'd be much obliged. :-D

Got a few other ideas boiling away, but right now the only progress being made is structural changes to the company, and writing.

Artists... the final frontier... ]]> ~SpringyNinja http://SpringyNinja.deviantart.com/journal/4450408/ http://SpringyNinja.deviantart.com/journal/4450408/ Sun, 30 Jan 2005 02:48:57 PST
Interestingly enough, the webcomic has now been featured on the ever snappy website, David Mack Guide, which is pretty swell.
I'm surprised anyone cares!

As always, I'm still interested in artists who are looking for exposure in comics. Anyone interested should contact me through mike@nitelitetheatre.com.

I'm working toward a new project that will put together a series of short stories, and pin-ups.
This is just to help introduce some of the characters we have at Nite Lite Theatre, and some of the types of stories we'll have to offer.

More info on that, as it's available.

Take it easy all! ]]> ~SpringyNinja http://SpringyNinja.deviantart.com/journal/4275512/ http://SpringyNinja.deviantart.com/journal/4275512/ Sun, 09 Jan 2005 06:11:35 PST
Well, there was another Christmas, and that was swell, but now it's back to business.
The Kirby Martin Inquest, the much talked about (by me) mini-series coming from Nite Lite Theatre is taking a lot longer than I'd like, and I'm impatient at the best of times, so I really want to get a new project going.

Consider this an official notice: Any professional level sequential comic artists that are looking for some exposure should contact me at mike@nitelitetheatre.com.
I'm desperate, but I'm still a picky pain in the arse, so no guarantees.

Much obliged folks!

I hope the Tsunami tragedy in Asia hasn't affected anyone out there, but if it has, best wishes to you and yours.

- Mike Haseloff ]]> ~SpringyNinja http://SpringyNinja.deviantart.com/journal/3934022/ http://SpringyNinja.deviantart.com/journal/3934022/ Sat, 27 Nov 2004 18:48:06 PST Nite Lite Theatre, and I'd love to hear any constructive criticism or appreciation.

Right now The Kirby Martin Inquest looks like it'll be pushed back until 2005. I think the most realistic time for a release will be February, but fingers crossed we can get it done sooner.
Cruz has been juggling his real life with his comic work, and it's not an easy act to balance, I'm sure.

Right now I'm working on some new ideas that I'm very excited about. Some of this stuff is utilizing some very old ideas, but in a new way, so that should be good.
I'm hoping to make it an on-going series, which will probably mean it'll need to wait until KMI shoots out and I get some noteriety.
Fingers crossed.

As always, if there are any artists looking for some experience or work, let me know. I'd really love to hear from you, because there's a lot of work to be done at NLT.

Thanks guys! ]]> ~SpringyNinja http://SpringyNinja.deviantart.com/journal/3675970/ http://SpringyNinja.deviantart.com/journal/3675970/ Tue, 26 Oct 2004 00:49:19 PDT Nite Lite Theatre.

Right now I'm looking for someone to do character bio pics, so, if anyone happens to be reading this, and is interested - drop me a line at mike@nitelitetheatre.com and we'll talk!

Everyone should head on over to [link] for the weekly updates which come every Monday! I'm getting covers together for The Kirby Martin Inquest, all is going well!

No more Springy Ninja strips for a while though. I haven't got the time, with more serious projects taking top priority.
HOWEVER - I now have plans to include Springy Ninja into the Nite Lite Universe, but, it might be a little while until that happens.

STAY TUNED! ]]> ~SpringyNinja http://SpringyNinja.deviantart.com/journal/3514504/ http://SpringyNinja.deviantart.com/journal/3514504/ Mon, 04 Oct 2004 22:17:48 PDT
I've planned a lot in advance for Ultimate Mike Haseloff M.D.: Life in the ER, and I thought I'd share some of what's to come. However, please keep in mind, I want to make this as fun for everyone as possible. If you have any suggestions, let me know!
It's already full of plenty of "in-jokes" I have with people, and I'm happy to cram in plenty more!

Now, what's to come?
- Trial by Ninja
Trial by Ninja has already begun, putting Melvin in the hotseat for the murder of Grey-Shirt.
Callista Flockhart will continue to represent Melvin, and maintain his innocence, even though he's guitly. The final conclusion will shock new and old readers alike!

- Retirement
Having learned his life as Springy Ninja was a farce in Origin Story, Melvin Murphy hangs up the ninja boots and heads back to the bar.

- False Idol
Regular joe, Melvin Murphy, finds a new zest for life thanks to stardom! Guest appearances are in Murphy's future, and you won't believe what happens as we introduce a new, original recurring character!

- The Ninja Sproing Returns
The biggest, most Earth shattering event in Ultimate Mike Haseloff M.D.: Life in the ER! Believe the hype, you will not want to miss this, and the events leading up to it!
Melvin Murphy will be confronted with a difficult choice, and learn new things about his friends in this Frank Miller spoof!

There you go folks. Big plans for Melvin Murphy.
Stay tuned, yo! Macho madness runnin' wild.
Keep those comments coming!



- ADDITIONAL: I've done an interview for my website, which is now available. Lots of chitter-chatter about what's coming up for my stuff. [link]
There'll hopefully be more updates to come soon.

- End Transmission ]]> ~SpringyNinja http://SpringyNinja.deviantart.com/journal/3503855/ http://SpringyNinja.deviantart.com/journal/3503855/ Sun, 03 Oct 2004 15:01:57 PDT
I have made contact.
The locals appear to be friendly.

The Tardis is malfunctioning, so for the time being I do believe I'm trapped here. Not to worry, as long as I have satellite television access to Aerobics Oz Style I'll be fine.
With their aid I'll be able to stay both trim, and alert.

I have deployed all thirty-four strips, and am preparing more as we speak. I pray they will be ready in time.

So far only strips thirty-three and thirty-four have returned a signal. I'm beginning to fear the worst. I only pray that by activating what these creatures call, "Advanced Critique Encourage," I will receive word on the strip's functionality.

I look around this strange world, and I see green everywhere. Is it possible this is paradise?
Further investigation will be required.

ADDITIONAL: I was mistaken. It is strips thirty-two and thirty-three that have brought back reponse. Thirty-four has been unsuccessful thus far.
I am more concerned with the earlier numbers. I only pray the people of this world will answer my calls.

- End transmission ]]> ~SpringyNinja http://SpringyNinja.deviantart.com/journal/3496906/ http://SpringyNinja.deviantart.com/journal/3496906/ Sat, 02 Oct 2004 17:02:47 PDT
My telepathic abilities and a thorough examination of adamguest1985's device led to the conclusion that I cannot return to my homeland. My immediate concerns turn to survival and concealment.

As a trained ninja, I was able to assume the likeness of a Springy Ninja to venture into this strange world. adamguest1985 had enough currency on his person for me to secure lodgings in this place called... DeviantArt.

For the past day no, I have been studying life on DeviantArt with the help of this charming device they call the internet. It is giving me all the information I need to act like a typical citizen of this site called DeviantArt.

So many types of peopple... animals... and the foods! Delicious sweet and savory foods unlike anything from my home.

I ingest the news programs, current affairs and the popular game shows. Even brilliant achivments in art that feature fantastic creatures called "cartoons."

Two things become clear to me. The first is that this is a world where good and evil struggle in all levels of existence. I want to be a force for good.

The second thing is that I need to find employment if I want to obtain any more currency.

As I'm sure is the case for many here, I find my answer on the internet.

My name is Mike Haseloff. Here on DeviantArt I shall be known as Springy Ninja.

Police Detective Springy Ninja. I'll be one of the good guys!

ADDITIONAL: Buy DC: The New Frontier.

- End transmission ]]> ~SpringyNinja http://SpringyNinja.deviantart.com/journal/3491616/ http://SpringyNinja.deviantart.com/journal/3491616/ Fri, 01 Oct 2004 22:33:15 PDT
Commander adamguest1985 has introduced me to this world called, "DeviantArt."
The terrain appears to be stable.

I have begun deploying my strips.
Food rations are low.

Help me Obi-Wan Kenobi. You're my only hope.

ADDITIONAL: Co-ordinates attached - [link]

Visit: [link]

- End transmission. ]]> ~SpringyNinja