Eagle Awards set to soar back next year

“People often say ‘Don’t believe everything you read on the Internet’ and this is one of those times,” announced Eagle Awards chair Cassandra Conroy.

Referring to an announcement made by MCM Expo’s Bryan Cooney at the conclusion of 2012 Eagle Awards ceremony on Friday night, she added, “To paraphrase Mark Twain: The reports of the Eagles’ death have been greatly exaggerated.

“Neither my father (Eagle Awards founder Mike Conroy) nor I attended Friday night’s ceremony, which we were boycotting in response to actions that are now being reviewed by my lawyer. Thus we don’t know exactly what Bryan said,” she explained.

“However, with Bleeding Cool posting that Friday night’s ceremony was ‘the end of the road for the Eagle Awards after 30-some years and from next May, there'd be something called The MCM Awards instead.’ and others suggesting that next year the Eagles would be transformed into entirely new awards. I feel the need to put the record straight…

“The Eagles are neither dead nor morphing into anything else. MCM Expo is in no position to announce, imply or indicate otherwise,” Conroy stated. “In fact no third party can casually discard what my father has developed over the past 36 years. The Eagles will continue to soar into 2013 and beyond.

"We’ll be announcing further details of our plans for next year in the near future.”

DownTheTubes contacted the MCM Expo and asked for clarification of Mr Cooney's statement on Friday night.

Speaking for the organisation, which currently co-owns the Eagles with Cassandra, Paul Miley confirmed Mr Cooney had declared the Eagles were over last Friday folowing the ceremony - or at least it would seem, based on his comments quoted below, over as far as MCM was concerned.

"Bryan made a joint announcement for Bryan and I on stage last Friday to the affect that we have spent the last three years organising the Eagle Awards which we have enjoyed doing but it is time for change," Paul told us.

"It is most likely there will not be an Eagle Awards from this point forward and that we are looking to launch an MCM Awards next year.

"At this time we would not like to comment further on this matter but may in future."

Last ever Eagle Awards? Let's hope not

Marred by behind-the-scenes issued hinted at on other comic news web sites such as Bleeding Cool, this year's Eagle Awards were announced as part of this weekend's MCM Expo last night -- and the awards co-owners MCM announced as the ceremony ended that they would be the last.

Introduced in 1976, the Eagle Comic Awards are the British comic industry’s longest established awards, acknowledged as the pre-eminent international accolades, so here at DownTheTubes, we're a little taken aback by the news. The Eagles have been featured on the covers of leading US and UK titles across the last 30 years.

Over the past few weeks, there have been murmurings of rising acrimony between the co-owners of the Awards - the MCM Expo and Cassandra Conroy, daughter of Mike Conroy, the latter an integral part of the Eagles since they began.

If the Eagles are truly over - and we hope this is not the case - neither co-owner has made a public statement on whatever issues have arisen to lead to this sad day. MCM Expo owner Brian Cooney did however take it upon himself to announce their own awards will begin next year and that the Eagles are "over" as a parting shot at last night's ceremony.

The winners, reflecting for the most part the success of DC Comics '52' revamp of its line, were:

- Best Newcomer (writer): Jeff Lemire
- Best Newcomer (artist): Francesco Francavilla
- Best Writer: Scott Snyder
- Best Artist (pencils): J.H. Williams III
- Best Artist (inks): Scott Williams
- Best Writer/Artist: Frank Miller
- Best Fully-Painted Artwork: Alex Ross
- Best Colourist: Dave Stewart
- Best Letterer: Richard Starkings
- Best Editor: Karen Berger
- Best Publisher: DC/Vertigo
- Best Full-Colour US Comic: Batman
- Best Black/White US Comic: The Walking Dead
- Best Full-Colour British Comic: Doctor Who Magazine
- Best Black/White British Comic: Viz
- Best New Comic: Batman (um, what?)
- Best Manga: 20th Century Boys
- Best European Comic Book: Dylan Dog
- Best Web-Based Comic: Freakangels
- Best Single Story: Doctor Who #12
- Best Story Arc: ‘No Way Out’, The Walking Dead
- Best Cover: Batwoman #1 by JH Williams III
- Best Original Graphic Novel: Batman: Noel
- Best Reprint Compilation: Thor by Walt Simonson
- Best Comics-Related Book: Supergods by Grant Morrison
- Best Comics Movie/TV Show: The Big Bang Theory
- Best Comic Book Website: Bleeding Cool
- Best Comics-Related Magazine: DC Comics Superhero Collection
- Roll of Honour: Frank Quitely

- Huntsman Challenge Award: The Time of Reflection (Note that this Award, created as a comic strip challenge, seems to have been tacked on to the usual categories and we're not sure this is actually an 'Eagle')

Our congratulations to all the winners.

While we have no desire here to be drawn into whatever quagmire of controversy that has arisen behind the scenes over the Awards it was telling, we think, that Mike Conroy, the man who has helped run the Awards for many years, announced on Twitter that he was in the pub opposite the awards venue and would not be attending the ceremony.

Co-owner of the Eagle Awards (MCM Expo owns 50 per cent of them as part of a business deal) Cassandra Conroy also did not attend.

Here at DownTheTubes, we're surprised to hear the Eagle Awards have been summarily 'finished', and given the lack of attendance by their co-owners, we do wonder if there will be further announcements in due course.

We certainly hope so - while some have been dismissive of them in recent years, they are one of Britain's major comic awards, even though voting is open worldwide.

New Comics Talent Competition Reaches Final Pair in Eagle Awards

It’s time to make your voice heard as the two finalists of the Huntsman’s Challenge new comics talent competition go head-to-head to win a prestigious Eagle Award.

Inspired by upcoming Universal Pictures movie Snow White And The Huntsman, the competition challenged comic creators to come up with a fully finished, coloured and lettered five page story with a plot relevant to the film’s dark fantasy setting.

The panel of judges – Titan Publishing senior editor Steve White, bestselling writer Tony Lee and Eisner-winning artist Mark Buckingham – have selected ‘Land of All Sorts’ in the Best Story category and ‘A Life of Death’ for Best Art and Design.

Now you can read both comics on www.eagleawards.co.uk and decide know whether ‘A Life of Death’ or ‘Land of All Sorts’ should win the MCM Expo Award For New Visionaries at next month’s Eagle Awards ceremony at MCM London Comic Con.

“It’s wonderful to see so many talented comic creators taking up the Huntsman's Challenge,” commented MCM co-organiser Paul Miley. “The artwork and writing of the entries has been of an amazingly high standard, so it’s a great achievement for Land of All Sorts and A Life of Death to make the final pair.”

“I'm thrilled by the enthusiasm the participants have shown and the quality of the work submitted,” added Eagle Awards chair Cassandra Conroy.

Both stories will also be printed in the MCM Expo London Comic Con show programme, and the creative teams will be invited to the awards ceremony and after-party on the Friday of the event and receive industry passes and signing slots for the full London Comic Con weekend.

‘HUNTSMAN’S CHALLENGE’ COMPETITION JUDGES’ SHORTLIST

BEST STORY versus BEST ART

1. Land of All Sorts versus        1. A Life of Death
2. Sleeping King versus            2. Land of All Sorts
3. The Edge Of The Village   =3. Time of Reflection
=4. A Life of Death                =3. Long Live The Emperor
=4. Time of Reflection              5. Flint Tinder

• To buy tickets for the MCM London Comic Con at Excel London on 25-27 May visit: https://www.mcmexpostore.com/store/


• Follow the MCM Expo on www.twitter.com/mcmexpo and www.facebook.com/mcmexpo or visit their YouTube channel at www.youtube.com/mcmexpo

2000AD, STRIP and CLiNT nominated for Eagle Award

Which comic rocked your world last year? Which writers and artists really stood out from the crowd? The final round of voting is now underway for the 2012 edition of the Eagle Awards, so now’s the time to head on over to www.eagleawards.co.uk and let us know your picks.

A host of talented creators are in with a chance of scooping a prestigious Eagle Award at the MCM London Comic Con presentation ceremony on Friday 25th May - and the competition looks to be pretty heated for the category of Britain's favourite comic book, with 2000AD, CLiNT and STRIP Magazine all going head to head in the nominations.

There will be stiff competition in the British black and white category, too, with DC Thomson's Commando going head to press with small press titles such as Zarjaz and Futurequake.

British creators nominated for awards include Frank Quitely, 2000AD editor Matt Smith,  Annie Parhouse, Jamie Grant and Richard Starkings.

Introduced in 1976, the Eagles are the comics industry’s best-known fan-selected awards, giving the entire comics community the opportunity to vote for the finest publications and brightest talent of the past year, with categories covering the whole world of comics, including manga, movies and web comics.

“We have seen the greatest response to the awards in recent years, with the industry's diversity reflected in the wide range of nominees,” commented Eagle Awards chair Cassandra Conroy.


Here's the full list:

Favourite Newcomer Artist

• Declan Shalvey
• Emanuela Lupacchino
• Francesco Francavilla
• Mahmud Asrar
• Axel Medellin

Favourite Newcomer Writer

• Michael Carroll
• J.H. Williams III
• Jeff Lemire
• Robert Curley
• Nathan Edmondson

Favourite Writer

• Alan Moore
• Ed Brubaker
• Geoff Johns
• Grant Morrison
• Scott Snyder

Favourite Writer/Artist

• Darwyn Cooke
• Francis Manapul
• Frank Miller
• J.H. Williams III
• Jeff Lemire

Favourite Artist: Pencils

• Becky Cloonan
• Chris Bachalo
• Ivan Reis
• J.H. Williams III
• Jim Lee

Favourite Artist: Inks

• Becky Cloonan
• Chris Samnee
• D'israeli
• Gary Erskine
• Scott Williams

Favourite Colourist

• Dave Stewart
• Jamie Grant
• Jeff Balke
• Laura Martin
• Rod Reis

Favourite Fully-Painted Artwork

• Adi Granov
• Alex Ross
• Esad Ribic
• J H WIlliams III
• Sean Phillips

Favourite Letterer

• Annie Parkhouse
• Chris Eliopoulos
• Ed Dukeshire
• Richard Starkings/Comicraft
• Todd Klein

Favourite Editor

• Chris Ryall
• Karen Berger
• Matt Smith
• Steve Wacker
• Tom Brevoort

Favourite Publisher

• Dark Horse
• DC Comics/ Vertigo
• IDW
• Image
• Marvel

Favourite American Comicbook: COLOUR

• Aquaman
• Batman
• Batwoman
• Daredevil
• Hellboy

Favourite British Comicbook: COLOUR

• 2000AD
• CLiNT Magazine
• Doctor Who Magazine
• Judge Dredd the Megazine
• STRIP Magazine

Favourite American Comicbook: BLACK & WHITE

• Echoes
• RASL
• The Walking Dead
• Usagi Yojimbo
• Wolves

Favourite British Comicbook: BLACK & WHITE

• Blood Blokes
• Commando
• Futurequake
• Lou Scannon
• Viz Comic
• Zarjaz

Favourite New Comicbook

• Animal Man
• Aquaman
• Batman
• Daredevil
• Wolverine and the X-Men

Favourite European Comicbook

• Betelgeuse
• Dylan Dog
• Jennifer Wilde
• League Of Volunteers
• Requiem Vampire Knight

Favourite Manga

• 20th Century Boys
• Blade of the Immortal
• Bleach
• Naruto
• One Piece

Favourite Single Story

• Amazing Spider-Man #655
• Animal Man #1
• Aquaman #4
• Daredevil #7
• Doctor Who (IDW) #12

Favourite Continued Story

• American Vampire: Ghost War
• Batwoman: Hydrology
• Chew: Flambe
• Detective Comics: The Black Mirror
• Walking Dead: No Way Out

Favourite Original Graphic Novel

• Batman: Noel
• Habibi
• Hellboy: House of the Living Dead
• League of Extraordinary Gents 1969
• Teen Titans: Games

Favourite Cover

• 2000AD Prog 1752
• Aquaman #1
• Batwoman #1
• Daredevil #1
• Detective Comics #880

Favourite Reprint Compilation

• Aquaman: Death of A Prince
• Detective Comics: The Black Mirror
• Thor Omnibus by Walt Simonson
• Walking Dead vol. 15
• We3 Deluxe Edition

Favourite Comics-Related T.V. Show/Movie

• Captain America
• Misfits
• The Big Bang Theory
• Walking Dead
• X-Men First Class

Favourite Comics-Related Magazine

• Alter Ego
• Back Issue
• Comic Heroes
• Comics Journal
• DC Comics Superhero Collection

Favourite Web-Based Comic

• Ace Kilroy
• Axe Cop
• Freakangels
• Hark! A Vagrant
• xkcd.com

Favourite Comics-Related Book

• 1001 Comics You Must Read Before You Die
• Alan Moore: Storyteller
• Supergods: Our World in the Age of the Superhero
• The Batman Files
• The Marvel Art of John Romita, Jr.

Favourite Comics-Related Website

• Bleeding Cool
• Comic Book Resources
• Comics Alliance
• Newsarama
• Zona Negativa

Roll of Honour

• Adam Hughes
• Brian Michael Bendis
• Darwyn Cooke
• Frank Quitely
• Geoff Johns

• To vote, head to www.eagleawards.co.uk

• To buy tickets to the MCM London Comic Con at Excel London on 26-28 May, please visit: https://www.mcmexpostore.com/store

MCM and Eagle Awards Debut New Comics Talent Competition

For almost a decade the MCM London Comic Con has been a haven for comics, movies, games and anime – and now, together with the Eagle Awards and upcoming Universal Pictures blockbuster Snow White And The Huntsman, they’re looking to the next decade with a prestigious competition for new comic artists and writers.

Judged by Titan Publishing senior editor Steve White, bestselling writer Tony Lee and Eisner-winning artist Mark Buckingham, the ‘Huntsman's Challenge’ competition calls on comic creators to come up with a fully finished, coloured and lettered five page story with a plot relevant to a dark fantasy setting.

“In just a few years we've seen our small Artists Alley turn into a full scale Comic Village, with hundreds of comic creators now attending and exhibiting,” said MCM marketing director Bryan Cooney. “Many of today's best UK creators started with a table at our shows, growing as we have. We'd like to give that opportunity to the next generation of creative teams.”

Submissions will be accepted from 1-29th February 2012 and our judges will select two winners: one for best design and art, the other for best writing quality. Both creative teams will be nominated for a new Eagle Award, the MCM Expo Award For New Visionaries and have their story included in May’s MCM London Comic Con show programme, printed in conjunction with Snow White And The Huntsman from Universal Pictures, who will also provide a selection of prizes.

Both winners will also receive invites to the 2012 Eagle Awards ceremony and after-party on the Friday of the MCM London Comic Con, along with industry passes to the full London Comic Con weekend and signing slots in the show’s Comic Village.

"Winning an Eagle on your first time out is a story worth telling in its own right," Cooney commented. "Having tens of thousands of people read your story and having it in print alongside a movie like Snow White And The Huntsman is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity."

All accepted entries will receive audience invitations to the May 2012 Eagle Awards.

Competition Rules and How to Enter

Entries for the 'Huntsman's Challenge' will be accepted 1-29th February 2012. Entrants must submit a fully finished, coloured and lettered five page story as a 300 dpi jpg or pdf with a page dimension of 170mm (w) x 230mm (h). These entries must have a beginning, middle and end within these pages, with a story relevant to a dark fantasy setting. To find out how to enter the contest, visit www.eagleawards.co.uk

Panel of Industry Judges

STEVE WHITE: Senior Editor, Titan Publishing: An editor of many of Titan's top comics and graphic novels including the UK Transformers comic, Steve is also an artist, writer and colourist of over 20 years’ experience.

MARK BUCKINGHAM: Artist: A multiple Eisner winning artist of over twenty five years standing, Mark is best known for his work on Hellblazer, Miracleman, Doctor Who and his award winning run as the primary artist on Fables for DC/Vertigo.

TONY LEE: Writer: A #1 New York Times Best-selling Author, Tony has been a freelance writer for 25 years, and a comic writer for nine of those. Best known as author and ‘showrunner’ of the Doctor Who comic for IDW, Tony's creator-owned comic Hope Falls is currently being adapted into a movie by Future Films.

MCM Expo Award For New Visionaries Voting

When the two stories shortlisted for the MCM Expo Award For New Visionaries have been selected, members of the public will be able to read both and vote for their favourite by visiting either http://www.londoncomiccon.net/ or http://www.eagleawards.co.uk/

• To buy tickets for the MCM London Comic Con at Excel London on 26-28 May, please visit: https://www.mcmexpostore.com/store

Eagles Initiative talent competition axed due to low number of entries

Organisers of the Eagles Initiative talent competition, launched last year, have abandoned this year's competition.

The Eagles Initiative was launched in May 2010 as an independent offshoot of the Eagle Awards (see news story) to find and promote new creators in a worldwide talent search. With many industry professionals graciously agreeing to donate their time to judge a shortlist of twelve entries to form three prize winners, and with Stan Lee as its patron, it was a bold experiment and the team behind the project expected many thousands of entries, with a top prize of £1000 on offer.

"Unfortunately, despite our best efforts, I have had to reluctantly cancel this years Eagles Initiative competition due to low turnout," announced organiser Barry Renshaw.

"Though many entries were of a very high standard, there were not enough submissions to make the competition viable.

"It's a decision that is bitterly disappointing to me and everyone involved," he added, "especially after the amount of time and effort put into it, but considering the poor response it was the only option."

All registration fees are being refunded and as per the guidelines, all submissions remain creator owned and of course will not be published by the Initiative. Entrants have already been informed.

Among those who had agreed to participate as judges were Tom Brevoort, Mike Carey, Howard Chaykin, Chris Claremont, Mike Deodato Jr, Steve Epting, David Finch, Geoff Johns, Denny O’Neil, Trina Robbins, Bob Shreck, Gail Simone and Roy Thomas.

The plan was for  all 12 short listed entries to be made available both digitally and in print in the form of an internationally distributed anthology.

While admitting to be "personally gutted" by the cancellation, Renshaw added "we will be looking at developing smaller more localised projects in the future. We still believe a proactive and progressive approach to finding and developing new talent is important and the Eagles Initiative will pursue that mandate in the future.

"In the meantime I want to take this opportunity to personally thank all the industry professionals for offering their time for free to be a competition judge, and for lending their support to what I still believe to be a unique opportunity for undiscovered talent."

• Eagles Initiative web site: www.eaglesinitiative.com 

Eagle Awards 2011 Winners

Here's the list of Eagle Award winners, announced at the MCM London Expo over the weekend.

Favourite Newcomer Writer – Paul Cornell
A strange choice, given that I first commissioned Paul to write a Doctor Who comic back in the early 1990s - but congratulations nevertheless! "I was frankly astonished to have beaten such quality opposition," says Paul. View his acceptance speech here

Favourite Newcomer Artist -  Sara Pichelli
Currently living in Rome, Sara has worked in the local animation industry as storyboard artist and character designer for a couple of years before taking a chance on the comic business. In  April 2008 she was one the winners of the "Chesterquest" international talent search and since worked for Marvel Comics on titles like NYX, Eternals, X-Men Manifest Destiny: Dazzler and Runaways. She's currently working on the new X-Men: Pixie title.

Favourite Writer – Grant Morrison
Grant Morrison is highly-regarded as one of the most original and inventive writers to work in the comic book industry. He is recognised as being one of the best-selling writers in the medium for the last 20 years.

Favourite Writer/Artist – Mike Mignola
Creator of Hellboy

Favourite Penciler - J.H. Williams III
Recently interviewed here on the Dammed Interviews site

Favourite Inker -  Mike Mignola

Favourite Fully Painted Artist - J. H. Williams III

Favourite Colourist – Dave Stewart
Wikipedia link: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Dave_Stewart_%28artist%29
Dave is known for his work at Dark Horse Comics, DC Comics and Marvel Comics, as well as colouring Tim Sale's art in Heroes.

Favourite Letterer – Richard Starkings
Creator of Elephantmen and www.comicraft.com

Favourite Editor – Matt Smith
Editor of 2000AD

Favourite Publisher – DC Comics/Vertigo/Wildstorm

Favourite American Comic Book (Colour) – Batman and Robin

Favourite American Comic Book (Black and White) – The Walking Dead

Favourite British Comic Book (Colour) – 2000AD

Favourite British Comic Book (Black and White) – Commando
"It goes without saying that everybody at Commando HQ was highly delighted [by this award]" says editor Calum Laird. "But it’s not all about the small handful of us here, the award is a fitting recognition of the work of all those who have put so much into the title over the last 50 years. It is their efforts that have made Commando so highly-regarded the comics world."

Favourite New Comic Book – Daytripper
Issue 1 review on Comic Book Resources

Favourite Manga – Fullmetal Alchemist

Favourite European Comic Book – Blacksad

Favourite Web-Based Comic – Axe Cop
"The Eagle Award is the British equivalent to the US Eisner award," says writer Ethan Nicolle. "The big difference is that the Eagle Awards nominated Axe Cop for best web comic and best cover, and awarded Axe Cop for one of those, whereas the Eisners didn't even nominate Axe Cop.  That's fine, but let me just reisterate my appreciation for the love the Brits have shown Axe Cop... I really hope we get to come visit some day.  Thanks to everyone who voted online for Axe Cop and all who were involved in honoring us with this award."


Favourite Reprint Compilation – Absolute All-Star Superman

Favourite Single Story – Daytripper #8

Favourite Continued Story – The Walking Dead

Favourite Cover – Batwoman #0 by J.H. Williams III

Favourite Original Graphic Novel – Scott Pilgrim vol. 6

Favourite Comics-Related Book – 75 Years Of DC Comics by Paul Levitz

Favourite Comics Related Movie Or TV Show – Scott Pilgrim Vs. The World

Favourite Magazine About Comics – Wizard
Shame it's been cancelled, eh?

Favourite Comic Book Related Website – Comic Book Resources

More comic talent joins London MCM Expo line-up

With the cream of comic book talent gathering at its famous Comic Village, the MCM Expo London Comic Con is the only place to be on 27-29 May if you’re a fan of comics, graphic novels and manga.

Over 100 top comic artists and writers are coming to the show, including a rare UK appearance by Warren Ellis (Transmetropolitan, The Authority, Fell); Jamie McKelelvie (The Uncanny X-Men: Heroic Age, Phonogram, Iron Man); Gary Erskine (Judge Dredd, Dan Dare, Knights Of Pengragon); Becky Cloonan (Demo, Northlanders and American Virgin) and many, many more.

Not only can you meet all the artists and writers on their stands, but the Comic Village features its own dedicated stage hosting panels from some of the comic world’s top names, giving you insights into their newest creations, offering invaluable advice and participating in audience Q&A sessions.

And that’s not all – Friday 27 May sees the MCM Expo play host to the prestigious Eagle Awards, the comic industry’s most prestigious fan-selected awards.

• For more on the Comic Village, visit www.londonexpo.com/comicvillage

• For London MCM Expo tickets please visit: www.mcmexpogroup.com/store

MCM Expo London Comic Con Records Best Ever Ticket Sales

Advance ticket sales for next month’s MCM Expo London Comic Con - which includes the presentation of the Eagle Awards - have just topped an incredible 15,000, the highest recorded at this stage in the show’s decade-long history.

The event's organisers say that with demand for advance tickets skyrocketing, the MCM Expo is expected to hit the 60,000 visitor mark for the first time this May; 10,000 more than the total number of people coming through the doors at October’s show.

“We are absolutely delighted to see advance sales so high eight weeks ahead of this year’s show given that most of our sales usually happen in the two months running up to the event,” said MCM Expo co-organiser Bryan Cooney.

“One possible reason for this unprecedented public interest is our recent media partnership with GameSpot UK. As London’s Comic Con, we were already the UK’s leading show for comics, movies, anime and manga, and this partnership ensures that the Expo delivers the best games content as well.”

As well as teaming up with GameSpot UK, the upcoming MCM Expo London Comic Con will sport superhero movie Green Lantern as its official title sponsor, play host the prestigious Eagle comics awards and welcome X-Men: First Class and Thor writers Ashley Miller and Zack Stentz as special guests.

• Industry and press registration for the MCM Expo London Comic Con on 27-29 May is set to open Monday 11 April – for details visit www.londonexpo.com


• For London MCM Expo tickets please visit: www.mcmexpogroup.com/store


• To stay up-to-date with Expo news, follow it on www.twitter.com/mcmexpo

Eagle Awards voting opens

Voting is now open for the Eagle Awards, the annual prize given to the best American and British comics as decided by comic readers.

We're pleased to report that as befits their British origins, the nominations include a substantial amount of homegrown talent and publications - including DC Thomson's Commando, some wonderful small press titles such as Futurequake and Paragon, and creators such as Paul Cornell and ace letterer Jim Campbell.

We're also pleased to report that included in the nominations is the recent Charley's War collection by Pat Mills and Joe Colquhoun (and edited by me for Titan Books) - and Doctor Who Magazine (also edited by me in the dim and distant past, though I'm claiming no credit in the nomination, just delighted the comic strip creators for the title are getting some well-deserved recognition).

Founded in 1977 by Mike Conroy and Richard Burton, the Eagle Awards are named for the groundbreaking UK. comic Eagle. Nominees are chosen with the help of comic book fans and the final victors are decided by popular vote.

You can support your favourite creators, titles and publishers in 38 categories, which can be voted upon at this link. An awards ceremony will be held at London's MCM Expo on May 27, where the winners will be announced.

The full list of nominees can be found below. Where possible, links are to official sites where known; if not, then to Wikipedia entries. Book links will direct to amazon.co.uk.

Favourite Newcomer Writer

• Paul Cornell
• Al Ewing (also on Twitter)
• Bryan Lee O'Malley
• Scott Snyder
• Nick Spencer

T.H.U.N.D.E.R. Agents
by Fiona Staples

Favourite Newcomer Artist

• Rafael Albuquerque
• Bryan Lee O'Malley
• Sean Murphy
• Sara Pichelli
• Fiona Staples

Favourite Writer

• Ed Brubaker
• Warren Ellis
• Robert Kirkman
• Grant Morrison
• John Wagner

Favourite Writer/Artist

• Gabriel Ba with Fabio Moon
• Darwyn Cooke
• Jeff Lemire
• Mike Mignola
• Bryan Lee O'Malley

Favourite Artist - pencils

• Becky Cloonan
• Carlos Ezquerra
• Mike Mignola
• Dave Ryan
• J.H. Williams III

Favourite Artist - Inks

• Becky Cloonan
• Gary Erskine
• Carlos Ezquerra
• Mike Mignola
• Bill Sienkiewicz

Favourite artist - fully painted work

• D'Israeli
• Jock
• Alex Ross
• Ben Templesmith
• J.H. Williams III

Favourite Colourist

• Laura Allred
• Jeff Balke
• Laura Martin
• Len O'Grady
• Dave Stewart

Favourite letterer

• Jim Campbell
• Chris Eliopoulos
• Annie Parkhouse
• Richard Starkings
• Russ Wooton

Favoorite Editor

• Scott Allie
• Tom Brevoort
• Todd McFarlane
• Matt Smith/Tharg
• Steve Wacker

Favourite publisher

• Dark Horse
• DC Comics/Vertigo/WildStorm
• IDW
• Image Comics (inc. Top Cow)
• Marvel

Favourite American comic book - colour

• Amazing Spider-Man by Various (Marvel)
• Batman and Robin by Grant Morrison plus Various (DC Comics)
• Buffy the Vampire Slayer Season Eight by Various (Dark Horse)
• Doctor Who by Tony Lee plus Various (IDW Publishing)
• Hellboy by Mike Mignola plus Various (Dark Horse)

Favourite American comic book - black and white

• Age of Bronze by Eric Shanower (Image Comics)
• Demo Vol.2 by Brain Wood and Becky Cloonan (DC Comics)
• Echo by Terry Moore (Abstract Studio)
• RASL by Jeff Smith (Cartoon Comics)
• The Walking Dead by Robert Kirkman and Charlie Adlard (Image Comics)

Favourite British comic book - colour

• 2000AD by Various (Rebellion)
• Dandy by Various (DC Thomson)
• Doctor Who Magazine by Various (Panini Comics)
• The Man of Glass by Martin Flink (Accent UK)
• Torchwood by Various (Titan Books)

Favourite British comic book - black and white

• Commando by Various (DC Thomson)
• Dogbreath by Various (Futurequake Publishing)
• Futurequake by Various (Futurequake Publishing)
• Paragon by Various (David Cavendish)
• Zarjaz by Various (Futurequake Publishing)

Favourite new comic book

• American Vampire by Stephen King, Scott Snyder and Rafael Albuquerque (DC Comics/Vertigo)
• Daytripper by Fabio Moon and Gabriel Ba (DC Comics/Vertigo)
• Alan Moore's Neonomicon by Alan Moore and Jacen Burrows (Avatar Press)
• S.H.I.E.L.D. by Jonathan Hickman and Dustin Weaver (Marvel)
• War of the Independents by Dave Ryan (Red Anvil Comics)

Favourite Manga

• Berserk by Kenatro Miura (Hakusensha/ Dark Horse Comics)
• Bleach by Tite Kubo (Shueisha/Viz Media)
• Fullmetal Alchemist by Hiromu Arakawa (Square Enix/Viz Media)
• One Piece by Eiirchiro Oda (Shueisha/Viz Media)
• Naruto by Masashi Kishimoto (Shueisha/Viz Media)

Favourite European album

• Blacksad by Juan Diaz Canales and Juanjo Guarnido (Darguad/Dark Horse Comics)
• L'Histoire Secrete by Edward Gauvin and Jean-Pierre Pecau (Delcourt/Archaia Studio Press)
• The Scorpion by Desberg Desberg and Enrico Marini (Dargaud/Cinebook ltd)
• Requiem: Vampire Knight by Pat Mills and Olivier Ledroit (Nickel Editions/Panini Comics)
• Sky Doll by Alessandro Barbucci and Barbara Canepa (Soleil/Marvel)

Favourite Web-based comic

• Axe Cop by Malachai and Ethan Nicolle
• Freak Angels by Warren Ellis and Paul Duffield
• Hark! A Vagrant! by Kate Beaton
• Questionable Content by Jeph Jaques
• xkcd.com by Randall Munroe

Favourite single story

• Amazing Spider-Man #625: Endanger Species by Joseph Kelly and Max Fuimara (Marvel)
• A Cat Named Haiku by Mark Poulton and Dexter Weeks (Arcana Studio)
• Daytripper #8 by Fabio Moon and Gabriel Ba (DC Comics/Vertigo)
• Legends: The Enchanted #0 by Nick Percival (Radical Comics)
• Sea Bear and Grizzly Shark by Ryan Ottley and Jason Howard (Image Comics)

Favourite continued story

• 2000AD #1650-1693: Judge Dredd: Tour of Duty (Rebellion)
• Fables #94-98: Rose Red by Bill Willingham and Mark Buckingham (DC Comics/Vertigo)
• Hellboy #47-49: The Storm by Mike Mignola and Duncan Fegredo (Dark Horse)
• Invincible #71-continuing: The Viltrumite War by Robert Kirkman and Ryan Ottley (Image Comics)
• The Walking Dead #73-79: Too Far Gone by Robert Kirkman and Charlie Adlard (Image Comics)

Favourite 2010 cover

• 2000AD Prog 1700 by Jonathan Davis Hunt
• Axe Cop: Vol 1 by Ethan Nicolle
• Batwoman #0 by J.H. Williams III
• Daytripper #2 by Gabriel Ba
• War of the Independents by Dave Ryan

Favorite 2010 original graphic novel

• At The Mountains of Madness by H.P. Lovecraft and Ian Culbard (SELFMADE HERO)
• Hellblazer: Pandemonium by Jamie Delano and Jock
• Richard Stark's Parker: The Outfit by Darwyn Cooke
• Scott Pilgrim Vol 6: Scott Pilgrim's Finest Hour by Bryan Lee O'Malley (Fourth Estate)
• Superman: Earth One by J. Michael Straczynski and Shane Davis (DC Comics)

Favourite reprint compilation

• Absolute All Star Superman by Grant Morrison and Frank Quietly (DC Comics)
• Batwoman: Elegy by Gregg Rucker and J.H. Williams III (DC Comics)
• Charley's War: Great Mutiny by Pat Mills and Joe Colquhoun (Titan Books)
• Doctor Who: Fugitive by Tony Lee, Al Davison and Matthew Smith (IDW Publishing)
• The Walking Dead: Volume 13 by Robert Kirkman, Charlie Adlard and Cliff Rathburn (Image Comics)

Favourite comics-related book

• 75 Years of DC Comics by Paul Levitz (Taschen GmBH)
• Cover Run: The DC Comics Art of Adam Hughes by Adam Hughes (DC Comics)
• The Horror! the Horror!: Comic Books the Government Didn't Want You to Read! by Jim Trombetta and R. Spiel (Harry N. Abrams, Inc.)
• Icons: The DC Comics and WildStorm Art of Jim Lee by Jim Lee and Bill Baker (Titan Books)
• Mega-City One Archives by August Hann and Aaron Dembski-Bowden (Mongoose Publishing)

Favourite comics-related movie or TV show

• The Big Bang Theory
• Iron Man 2
• Kick Ass
• Scott Pilgrim Vs the World
• The Walking Dead

Favourite comics-related website

• Bleeding Cool
• ComicsAlliance
• Comic Attack
• Comic Book Resources
• Girls Read Comics Too
• Newsarama

Favourite magazine about comics

• Alter Ego (TwoMorrows)
• Back Issue (TwoMorrows)
• Comic Heroes (Future Publishing)
• Tripwire (Tripwire)
• Wizard (Wizard)

Roll of Honour

• John Byrne
• Carlos Ezquerra
• Dave Gibbons
• Bryan Lee O'Malley
• David Mazzuchelli

•  Vote in the Eagle Awards 2010

Nominations Open for Eagle Awards 2011

What was your favourite comic of 2010? Which artists and writers really grabbed your attention? Wekl, nominations open on Friday 4 February and run until 7th March for the world-famous Eagle Awards, so head on over to www.eagleawards.co.uk to make your voice heard!

The top five nominations in each section will then be verified and voting gets underway on 14th March – let us know who you want to see honoured on the big night of 27th May at the London MCM Expo by picking your favourites of 2010.

Once again the awards ceremony will be streamed LIVE to the world over the internet via www.mcmbuzz.com which proved extremely popular in 2010.

Introduced in 1976, the Eagles are the comics industry’s most prestigious fan-selected awards, giving the entire comics community the opportunity to vote for the finest publications and brightest talent of the past year, with categories covering the whole world of comics, including manga, movies and webcomics.

MCM Expo Group managing director Paul Miley and the Eagle Awards’ Cassandra Conroy have also announced that going forward, the Eagle Awards will be co-owned and organised equally by both parties.

Last October the Eagles moved to their new home at London MCM Expo, London’s Comic Con - www.londonexpo.com - and 2011 sees the awards return to Excel once again – this time back in their traditional May slot.

“All nominees will be invited to the Awards Ceremony at May’s London MCM Expo and the winners will be offered the opportunity to give an acceptance speech,” said Cassandra Conroy. “The full list of Award Winners will be released to the world 27 May.”

• For general enquiries on the Eagle Awards, contact info@eagleawards.co.uk

• To buy tickets to the London MCM Expo at Excel London on 27-29 May, please visit: www.mcmexpogroup.com/store 

Eagle Awards 2010: The Winners

The winners of the Eagle Awards have been announced at a gala presentation held at London ’s ExCeL on Friday, October 29 2010. Superhero titles again dominated most of the favourite titles and 2000AD topping the boll for favourite British book, but there are some welcome newcomers in the list of deserving creators who have won awards this year.

The organisers say this year's poll of fans across the globe was also another record-breaking year for the awards with a continued growth in the number of participating voters (although they don't say exactly how many people voted).  Apart from Britain , the USA and Canada, the thousands of ballots that flooded in came from more than 100 countries including several from Europe as well as Afghanistan, Botswana, Egypt, India, North Korea, Russia, Thailand, Uruguay, Vietnam and Zimbabwe - to name but a few.

A complete list of winners follows:

Roll of Honour – Brian Bolland

Favourite Newcomer Writer – Jonathan Hickman
Currently writing titles such as Fantastic Four. "So I won an Eagle Award, but they spelled my name wrong," he noted on Twitter. "It's supposed to read: K-I-E-R-O-N G-I-L-L-E-N."

Favourite Newcomer Artist – Jamie McKelvie
Best known for his work on Phonogram: Rule Britannia, co-created with writer Kieron Gillen. He also created Suburban Glamour, a four issue mini-series from Image Comics. "it's all fancy and glass, apparently," he said on Twitter. "I hope Kieron hasn't broken it. :()"

Favourite Writer – Warren Ellis
"My phone is going nuts with claims that I won the Favourite Writer award at the Eagles, too," says Warren on Twitter, after telling other creators they won awards. "This is clearly an error." Later, he noted on his web site: "I’ve already won one of those, and also my name isn’t Alan Moore or Geoff Johns. I calmly await the inevitable retraction."

Favourite Writer/Artist – Darwyn Cooke
Best known for his work on the comic books Catwoman,  The New Frontier, The Spirit and Richard Stark's Parker: The Hunter.

Favourite Artist: Pencils – Frank Quitely
Best known for his frequent collaborations with Grant Morrison on titles such as New X-Men, WE3, All Star Superman, and Batman and Robin, as well as his work with Mark Millar on The Authority.

Kevin O'Neill. Photo: Nightscream,
via Wikimedia Commons

Favourite Artist: Inks – Kevin O’Neill
Best known as the co-creator of 2000AD's Nemesis the Warlock, Marshal Law (with writer Pat Mills), and The League of Extraordinary Gentlemen (with Alan Moore).

Favourite Artist: Fully-Painted Artwork – J.H. Williams III
Best known for his work on titles such as Chase, Promethea and Desolation Jones.

Favourite Colourist – Ben Templesmith
Art credits in include Fell (with writer Warren Elis),  co-creator of 30 Days of Night (with Steve Niles), Dead Space, Doctor Who - The Whispering Gallery and Groom Lake.

Favourite Letterer – Todd Klein

Favourite Editor – Axel Alonso

Executive Editor, Marvel Comics. A previous Eagle Award winner, Axel Alonso has been an editor on both DC Comics' Vertigo imprint and Marvel's Marvel Knights line. He was recently announced as the editor for the X-Men family of books at Marvel comics. There's a good interview with him here

Favourite Publisher – DC/Vertigo

Favourite American Comicbook: Colour – Batman & Robin
Written by Grant Morrision, art by Frazer Irving

Favourite British Comicbook: Colour – 2000AD

Best British Black & White Comic Book: Whatever Happened To The World's Fastest Man?
Congratuations to all the team at Accent.


Favourite American Comicbook: Black and White – Walking Dead
Published by Image Comic, created by writer Robert Kirkman and artist Tony Moore, now drawn by Charlie Adlard.

Favourite New Comicbook – Batman & Robin


Favourite Manga – Fullmetal Alchemist


Favourite European Comicbook – Requiem Chevalier Vampire

Favourite 2009 Single Story – Phonogram – The Singles Club 4: Konichiwa Bitches

Favourite 2009 Continued Story – Walking Dead #61-65: Fear The Hunters

Favourite 2009 Cover – Batman & Robin #4

Favourite 2009 Original Graphic Novel – The League of Extraordinary Gentlemen: Century

Favourite 2009 Reprint Compilation – Captain Britain Omnibus by Alan Moore & Alan Davis

Favourite Magazine about Comics – Wizard

Favourite Comics-Related Book – The Insider's Guide to Creating Comics and Graphic Novels (Andy Schmidt)

Favourite Comics-Related Movie or TV Show – Watchmen

Favourite Comics-Related Website – comicbookresources.com

Favourite Web-Based Comic – Freak Angels by Warren Ellis and Paul Duffield
"I have told the relevant people to give the physical award — which, sadly, is still not a large bird of prey — to Paul," says Warren, "because he’s certainly earned having a large metal thing standing in his house leering at him the recognition."

Introduced in 1976, the Eagles are the comics industry’s longest established awards. Acknowledged as the pre-eminent international prizes, they have been featured on the covers of leading US and UK titles across the last 32 years ranging from Uncanny X-Men and Swamp Thing to MAD and 2000AD.

Unique in the comics industry in that they reflect both the professional and the reader’s choice, the Eagle Awards comprise of two distinct stages: a Nominations Form allows the entire comics community to choose their favourites; then the top five nominations then appear on the voting form for the readers and fans to choose from, thus focusing the fans with no wasted votes.

For more info visit: www.eagleawards.co.uk

Eagle Awards Ceremony announced for London MCM Expo

The Eagle Awards fly back to London at the end of this month - with a superb Awards ceremony planned at the MCM Expo.

With voting now closed, the announcement of the 2010 award winners is obviously the main reason for the gathering, organisers say their hope is that all attendees will find it a rare chance to socialise outside the familiar convention environment.

Introduced in 1976, the Eagles are the comics industry's longest established awards. Acknowledged as the pre-eminent international prizes, they have been featured on the covers of leading US and UK titles across the last 34 years ranging from Uncanny X-Men and Swamp Thing to MAD, 2000AD and Back Issue.

The London MCM Expo, which will host the ceremony, is now into its 18th show, supported by major media companies such as Universal, Twentieth Century Fox, Wizards of the Coast, Manga Entertainment, SFX and NEO to name but a few.

Taking place each May and October at London's massive Excel exhibition centre, the event is now the main focus and must be place for UK fans and industry to attend to promote new releases and forthcoming productions whether comics, movies, games, DVD's, books and the like.

The organisers rcently announced a new event now in the planning stages for Manchester next July.

• Eagle Awards web site: www.eagleawards.co.uk
• London MCM Expo: www.londonexpo.com


The Eagle Awards Ceremony
When: Friday, 29th October 2010 at 7:30pm.
Where: EXCEL London, One Western Gateway, Royal Victoria Dock, London, E16 1XL
What: The Eagle Awards presentation plus food, drink and entertainment
Dress: Smart casual
Tickets: £15 each or £25 for two
There are 6 on-site hotels; to book a room at the  Novotel email H3656-re@accor.com rates are £109 inclusive of breakfast and vat. Rooms are subject to availability.
To book tickets, contact Mike Conroy: mikeATeagleawards.co.uk

Eagle Awards partners with MCM Expo

After two years of nomadic existence, the Eagle Awards will take up residency at London’s hugely popular MCM Expo at Excel, where the 2010 awards will be announced.

As of 2011 and going forward, the awards will become part of London MCM Expo's May event.

While details are still to be finalised, Eagles administrator Cassandra Conroy announced, “I’m really pleased to have inked the deal with MCM's Paul Miley and Brian Cooney, considering that the London MCM Expo is viewed by fans and industry alike as London's Comic Con the nearest that the UK has to the San Diego ComicCon!"

“It’s been frustrating to have been homeless for the past couple of years and this new arrangement provides the Eagles with long-term stability," she added. "It also links us into a partnership with people who are as enthusiastic as I am to make them the industry’s premier awards."

For his part, MCM Expo's Paul Miley said, “We are very happy to now be the new home to the Eagle Awards which we consider to be a great British institution and an important part of comic fandom recognised the world over. I am looking forward to working with Cassandra and the Eagle's to help take the awards to another level.

“London MCM Expo has a tremendous following from both comic fans and the public as a whole and is supported by many artists and writers which has helped the Comic Village section of the show to grow show on show,” added Miley.

“We are likened to San Diego Comic Con in the US all the time by fans and industry pundits which we admit is a great accolade -- maybe not yet in size but most definitely in stature. So bringing the Eagles to Expo helps to cement our position as London's Comic Con the Eagles are our Eisners.”

Stan Lee supports UK's 'Eagle Initiative' for new creators

Stan Lee – the celebrated co-creator of such enduring Marvel characters as Spider-Man, the Fantastic Four, the Hulk and the X-Men – has agreed to become patron of the Eagle Initiative.

Agreeing to give his backing to the innovative worldwide talent search, Lee said, 'Way back in 1976 mine was the first name enrolled on the Eagle Awards Roll of Honour and I’m thrilled, lo these many years later, to be invited to be a patron of this pioneering initiative which stems from such prestigious and long-running prizes.

“Breaking into comic books has never been easy and I think it's great that Barry Renshaw and Cassandra Conroy are devoting their energies to helping newcomers from around the world get their foot on – and up – the ladder,” added the venerated writer and editor.

“I’m delighted to add my name to the Eagle Initiative and wish every contestant all the best, both with their entries and their subsequent careers. Who knows, this ambitious project might lead to the discovery of a 21st century Jack Kirby, Steve Ditko... or Stan Lee!”

Launched earlier this year, the Eagles Initiative provides a unique platform from which the next generation of writers and artists can promote their storytelling ability in an increasingly competitive market. The brainchild of Barry Renshaw, the Initiative is an unprecedented global talent search, entrants will be asked to submit an original self-contained illustrated story.

The winner will be awarded a £1,000 cash prize; the runner up will win £500 with the third place submission being given £250. All three stories are to be included in the Initiative Anthology, which will be released as a print publication and in multiple languages across the digital media.

“Having an industry legend like Stan Lee not only support the Initiative but agree to be its patron is both incredibly exciting and humbling at the same time," says Barry Renshaw, who is spearheading the project.

"I certainly never expected to receive the amount of interest and support from industry professionals that we have done over just a few short months, and everyone behind the scenes at the Initiative is absolutely dedicated to making sure we live up to their faith in the endeavour."

Now heading up the Eagle Awards, Cassandra Conroy added, “The Marvel Universe had just had its 30th birthday when I came into this world but my dad familarised me with those classic early stories throughout my formative years. It is, therefore, a great honour to have Stan Lee not only support us on the Initiative but also be so enthusiastic about what Barry is doing.

"I’m sure his involvement will catapult the Initiative and the Eagle Awards themselves into the wider public spotlight.”

“Things just keep getting better for Barry and Cassandra," notes Eagle Awards founder Mike Conroy, who is serving as a consultant and publicist to the Initiative.

"The industry has been behind them from the start but to get backing from the living legend that is Stan Lee just turns things up to 11!”

• For further details on the Initiative, a full list of judges and complete submission guidelines, go to www.eaglesinitiative.com/

Eagle Awards launch worldwide talent search

The Eagle Awards committee is to offer untried talent a chance to demonstrate their abilities before a global audience which has already garnered some prestigious support from the likes of Chris Claremont, Dave Gibbons and Mark Waid.

The project, which launches in July, will include a print anthology, to be published globally.

Unveiled at last weekend's Bristol International Comics and Small Press Expo, the Eagle Awards Initiative hopes to provide a unique platform from which the next generation of writers and artists can promote their storytelling ability in an increasingly competitive market.

Established as an annual event and with the emphasis very much on storytelling, the inaugural competition aspect gets underway on 1st July 2010, when the Initiative will open for submissions.

"I've always thought the Eagles could take a far more progressive and proactive role in the comics industry, especially within the UK which has such an untapped and unsupported pool of talent," explains Initiative director Barry Renshaw, who has been an active creator in the UK independent comics industry for over a decade. "When I was asked to rebrand the Eagle Awards themselves last year, I pitched the idea of the Initiative to the committee and it soon snowballed into something far more expansive."

"When Barry came to me with the idea I thought it was the best way to expand and relaunch the Eagles brand," says Eagle Awards chair Cassandra Conroy. "Considering the Eagles recieve global recognition I believed this would help the industry discover new talent not just from here and the USA, but from places we wouldn't perhaps expect."

In what is an unprecedented global talent search, entrants will be asked to submit an original self-contained illustrated story. The thousands of projected entries will be assessed by a hand-picked jury of comics readers, which will present a final dozen to the panel of judges comprising many of the comics industry's top talents.

Among those who have already agreed to participate are Peter Bagge, Karen Berger, Chris Claremont, David Finch, Dave Gibbons, Geoff Johns, Gilbert Shelton, Jeff Smith, Bryan Talbot, Ethan Van Sciver, Mark Waid and Brian Wood.

The judges will select a top three from the final 12 with the winner be awarded a £1,000 cash prize. The runner up will win £500 with the third place submission being given £250. All three stories are to be included in the Initiative Anthology, which will be released as a print publication and in multiple languages across the digital media.

Barry Renshaw is himself a publisher of his own Engine Comics imprint, the award winning Redeye Magazine, and the popular How to Self Publish - A Rough Guide. He was asked to join the Eagle Awards committee in 2009 to help reinvent the brand, and saw an opportunity for the Awards to play a more progressive and proactive role in the comics industry. The Initiative is the first part of that expanded role. He's also as run or appeared at various workshops, seminars and panels on comics publishing over the years.

"The Initiative is the first stage in a several year plan to reform the Eagles into a tool for developing new talent, for educating young people about the potential in the medium, and to help connect the many disparate elements of the comics industry together," Barry explains. "As an example, we have creators, editors, publishers, journalists, festival organisers, distributors and academics from across the world among our judges."

Announcing his support for the Eagle Awards Initiative, BOOM! Studios editor-in-chief Mark Waid said, "This medium is nothing without new talent, young blood, and fresh perspectives.

"It's our responsibility to nurture the next generation of creators and share what we've learned ? and, in return, learn from and be energised by them. I can't wait to roll up my sleeves and get into this," added Waid whose numerous writing credits include Kingdom Come, The Flash, Impulse and Captain America.

Introduced in 1976, the Eagles are the comics industry's longest established awards. Unique in that they reflect the people's choice, they are awarded by fans who vote for their favourite in each category of the awards. They are named after the fondly remembered 1950's British comic anthology Eagle, and were originated by two British fans, Mike Conroy and Richard Burton. The awards proved to be successful, with American publishers such as Marvel Comics announcing their victories with pride. They have relaunched in 2010 with a new look, a new mandate and a new vision for the future.

• For further details on the Initiative, a full list of judges and complete submission guidelines, go to www.eaglesinitiative.com.

Pat Mills delight at Eagle Award Nomination for Charley's War

2000AD co-creator Pat Mills has expressed his delight at learning that the latest collection of Charley War, written by Pat and drawn by Joe Colquhoun, has been nominated for an Eagle Award.

Nominated in the category for Favourite Reprint Compilation, Charley's War: Underground and Over The Top, the sixth volume in a series from from Titan Books, is in competition with Captain Britain by Alan Moore & Alan Davis Omnibus, Doctor Who: The Forgotten, Saga of the Swamp Thing and The Rocketeer: The Complete Adventures.

"I've always felt that Joe was the greatest comic artist I've ever worked with and I have worked with many world-class artists, but there is no one to compare with Joe," says Pat. "This is why I always say that Charley's War is my personal favorite out of all the stories I've written."

Charley's War was first published in Battle Picture Weekly in the 1970s, telling the story of young Charley Bourne on the front during World War 1. Critically acclaimed, it remains one of few war comics to paint an often truly disturbing picture of life for the ordinary soldier during the Great War - and is even more remarkable in that this story was often the most popular in a weekly war comic.

"The fact that Joe's genius does not always seem apparent to the British comics community as a whole has always surprised and - I have to be honest - rather saddened me," Pat continues. "I guess if he'd drawn escapism or men in tights stories it would be very different. But the lack of interest from the fantasy faction in the past is more than offset by the fact that his genius is very apparent to the 150, 000 plus mainstream readers who grew up enjoying his artwork and I'm always thrilled and honoured by their thoughts, feedback and now this commendation.


"Particularly in memory of Joe - one of the greatest unsung comic artists of the 20th Century. I'm delighted that the voice of mainstream readers is finally heard."

Titan's collections feature commentary by Pat on the Charley's War tale and background material on the War from Steve White. A seventh volume, The Great Mutiny, is in preparation for publication later this year.

• Vote online at www.eagleawards.co.uk

Voting opens for Eagle Awards

Voting for this year's Eagle Awards is now open on the official site.

Introduced in 1976, the Eagles are the comics industry's longest established awards. Acknowledged as the pre-eminent international prizes, they have been featured on the covers of leading US and UK titles across the last 30 years.

The nominations are as follows:

Favourite Newcomer Writer
• Al Ewing
• Jonathan Hickman
• Kathryn Immonen
• Kieron Gillen
• Mike Lynch

Favourite Newcomer Artist
• David Lafuente
• Declan Shalvey
• Jamie McKelvie
• John Cullen
• Matt Timson

Favourite Writer
• Alan Moore (Wikipedia)
• Geoff Johns
• John Wagner (Wikipedia Link)
• Tony Lee
• Warren Ellis

Favourite Writer/Artist
• Bryan Lee O'Malley
• Darwyn Cooke (Almost Darwyn Cooke's Blog - But Not Quite)
• David Mazzucchelli (Wikipedia Link)
• Paul Grist (The Paul Grist Comics Index)

Favourite Artist: Pencils
• Frank Quitely (Wikipedia Link)
• Guy Davis
• Ivan Reis (Wikipedia Link)
• J.H. Williams III
• Stuart Immonen

Favourite Artist: Inks
• Jackson 'Butch' Guice
• Charlie Adlard
• Gary Erskine
• Kevin O'Neil (Wikipedia link)
• Mark Farmer Wikipedia Link)

Favourite Artist: Fully-Painted Artwork
• Adi Granov
• Alex Ross
• Ben Templesmith
• J.H. Williams III
• James Jean
Favourite Colourist

• Ben Templesmith
• Christina Strain
• Dave Stewart (Wikipedia Link)
• Laura Martin
• Len O'Grady

Favourite Letterer
• Annie Parkhouse
• Chris Eliopoulos (Miery loves Sherman webcomic)
• Nate Piekos (Blambot)
• Richard Starkings (Comiccraft)
• Simon Bowland (on Twitter)
• Todd Klein

Favourite Editor
• Axel Alonso - Executive Editor, Marvel Comics (on Twitter)
• Matt Smith - 2000AD (Wikipedia Link)
• Nick Lowe - Marvel Comics (Wikipedia Link)
• Stephen Wacker - Marvel Comics (on Twitter)
• Tom Brevoort - Marvel Comics (Marvel blog)

Favourite Publisher
• DC/Vertigo
• IDW
• Image Comics
• Marvel
• Rebellion/2000AD

Favourite American Colour Comicbook
• B.P.R.D.
• Batman and Robin
• Captain Britain and MI13
• Chew
• Doctor Who
• Phonogram - The Singles Club
• Scalped


Favourite British Colour Comicbook
• 2000AD
• Spandex
• The Beano
• The Dead: Kingdom of Flies
• The DFC

Favourite American Black and White Comicbook
• I Kill Giants
• Scott Pilgrim
• The Venger: Dead Man Rising
• Usagi Yojimbo
• Walking Dead (Wikipedia link)

Favourite British Black and White Comicbook
• Chloe Noonan
• Dragon Heir by Emma Vicelli
• Futurequake
• Space Babe 113 by John Maybury (pictured- adult comic)
• Whatever Happened To The World's Fastest Man?


Favourite New Comicbook
• Batman and Robin
• Chew
• Doctor Who
• Rí Rá
• Unwritten


Favourite Manga
• Fullmetal Alchemist (Wikipedia link)
• GoGo Monster
• Kurosagi Corpse Delivery Service (Wikipedia Link)
• Pluto (Wikipedia link)
• Reya


Favourite European Comicbook
• The Chimpanzee Complex
• Largo Winch
• L'Histoire Secrète
• Requiem Vampire Knightby Pat Mills
• Rí Rá


Favourite Single Story Published During 2009
• Doctor Who : The Time Machination
• Doctor Who: Black Death White Life
 • From the Pages of Bram Stoker's Dracula: Harker
 • Phonogram The Singles Club 4: Konichiwa Bitches
• R.E.B.E.L.S. Annual #1: Starro the Conqueror


Favourite Continued Story Published During 2009
• Doctor Who: The Forgotten
• Judge Dredd: Tour of Duty
• Phonogram: The Singles Club
• Scalped #19-24: The Gravel in your Gut
• Walking Dead #61 - 65: Fear The Hunters


Favourite Cover Published During 2009
• 2000AD #1631 (D'Israeli/Dirty Frank)
• Batgirl #2
• Batman & Robin #4 (Frank Quitely)
• Batman and Robin #3
• Doctor Who: The Forgotten #6

Favourite Original Graphic Novel Published During 2009
• Asterios Polyp
• Grandeville
• League of Extraodinary Gentlemen: Century
• Mouse Guard: Winter 1152
• The Hunter

Favourite Reprint Compilation
• Captain Britain by Alan Moore & Alan Davis Omnibus
• Charley's War: Underground and Over The Top
• Doctor Who: The Forgotten
• Saga of the Swamp Thing
• The Rocketeer: The Complete Adventures


Favourite Magazine about Comics
• Back Issue
• Comics International
• Comics Journal
• Tripwire
• Wizard

Favourite Comics-Related Book
• Comic Book Design (Gary Millidge)
• Peter and Max
• The Insider's Guide to Creating Comics and Graphic Novels - Andy Schmidt
• The Marvel Art of Marko Djurdjevic
• War Stories (Mike Conroy)

Favourite Comics-Related Movie or TV Show
• Heroes
• Smallville
• Surrogates
• The Big Bang Theory
• Watchmen

Favourite Comics Related Website
• 2000AD Online

• Bleedingcool.com
• comicbookresources.com
• Forbidden Planet Blog
• Newsarama

Favourite Web-Based Comic
• Freak Angels
• Order of the Stick
• PVP
• Sin Titulo
• xkcd.com


Roll of Honour
• Brian Bolland
• Dick Giordano
• Joe Kubert
• John Hicklenton
• Peter David

• Vote online at www.eagleawards.co.uk

Tube Surfing: One Man Lord of the Rings, Manga Cross Stitch and Space Hoppers!

• Heading to Edinburgh's Fringe later this summer? Perhaps to catch up with Kev Sutherland and the Falsetto Sock Company, who are sure to be there? Then you might also be interested in a new show from Canadian actor Charles Ross, who first made an impact on the Edinburgh Fringe when his debut show, One Man Star Wars Trilogy, which was a surprise sell-out hit of the 2006 event. He's back this year with his equally hilarious follow-up One Man Lord Of The Rings in which he recreates the enchanting world of Middle-Earth, armed with nothing more than a pair of elbow pads and his outrageous imagination, at the E4 Udderbelly, E4 Udderbelly's Pasture, from 6-16th August 2009. More info: www.onemanlotr.com (Photo: Lisa Hebden)

• With the nominations collected, the ballets are about to open for the 2008 Eagle Awards, the comics industry's longest-running awards. Co-founded in 1976 by Mike Conroy, editor of Comics International and author of new Ilex Press release War Comics: A Graphic History (see news story), the awards offer UK comics fans a unique opportunity to nominate their own choices and vote for their pick of bunch in each category. The award categories cover comics and creators, as well as comics-related titles. Vote for nominees in the Eagles Awards here

• Via numerous upset comic creators, worrying news appeared in The Sun reporting that one-time 2000AD artist Ron Smith, 80, was in court over alledged child abuse. We can now report that at 3.00pm today the jury unanimously found him not guilty. Guildford Crown Court confirmed the details

• To quote blogger Giles Poitras, "Oh god it was only a matter of time. And who else but the wonderful Helen McCarthy could do a book called Manga Cross-Stitch." Who else indeed! Helen McCarthy, author of ILEX's 500 Essential Anime Movies and many titles on Japanese manga and anime, is the UK's leading expert in this area, and now she has turned her hand to teaching how to incorporate the skills of needlecraft with this popular Japanese graphic art form. Manga Cross-Stitch, available from ILEX, will be out soon, but in the meantime the Japan Foundation is presenting a lecture and workshop held by Helen McCarthy, on Wednesday 1 July, in London. Places are limited so get your tickets quick, as there will a chance to stitch your own manga design on the day.

• (via Bear Alley): A number of British creators have made the shortlist for the British Fantasy Awards 2009, amongst them Neil Gaiman and Dave McKean (best novel (and best non-fiction for his blog) and best artist respectively) and numerous others in the Best Comic/Graphic Novel section.

• This sounds fun: CBBC has commissioned a new science series, Space Hoppers, an interplanetary adventure series featuring Professor Brian Cox. Using animation and CGI and experiments, the series investigate what one might need to go on vacation in outer space and the extreme environments in the Solar System. Set to launch in 2010, which happens also to be the BBC's Year of Science, the seven episode series is produced in conjunction with BBC Science's series Seven Wonders Of The Solar System, also hosted by Cox.

• The British Cartoon Archive, based at the University of Kent's Templeman Library, recentlylaunched a new website and is now featuring a gallery of old Andy Capp cartoons by Reg Smythe.

• Tim Pilcher, author of Erotic Comics: A Graphic History, has been talking to Salacious Scribbles about the relationships between erotica, porn and the comics genre; how Volume 2 was stopped by Australian customs; and a whole lot more with Louise Bak, poet and radio show co-host, for men's magazine Toro. In Tim's own words: "Good erotic comics have to abide by the same basic rules that any comic book genre has to. That is, good story pacing, believable/ empathetic characters, an involving storyline and quality design and page layout." Erotic Comics is a guide though the talent and artwork of this much maligned art form. Read the interview here