Dan Slott: Marvel's most overrated writer ?

[Eric_Carnaby]

was intrigued by all the great things I kept hearing (well, reading, online basically) about Dan Slott, the writer of Thing and She-Hulk so I picked up the first She-Hulk trade (and the first issue of the latest volume/season run) and 3 issues of The Thing.
I couldn't be more disappointed.(I want my money back,seriously)

He isn't the worst...but the words that people used were brilliant and genius,and I keep reading how much people want him to write a Spider-man book and such, and I frankly don't see it.
All I read from him felt forced;the jokes, the cuteness, the winks at the audience...the name-dropping, the smug tone...
And the jokes weren't even that funny.

I love a good comedy book as much as the next guy(Cable/Deadpool is one of my favorite books), but She-Hulk never made me smile, even once.
Not even the Spider-Man appearance had anything mind-blowing about it, which I expected to, since so many people told me that issue was particularly good.
She-hulk is in my opinion a half-hearted attempt to bridge the Sensational She-Hulk with the more "serious" She-Hulk from Avengers and Fantastic Four, but it does it in a very mediocre way.

The regular art was the only element of the She-Hulk book I found memorable...very distinctive and sharp. (Sad to hear the artist will not be working in the book anymore)

And The Thing...this book is stuck in a time-warp...I loved Marvel Team-Up, and yet this comic is too dependent on nostalgia, without doing anything fresh or taking the concept into a new direction.
I wish I had liked it more, cuz I like Ben Grimm, but the writing is so old-fashioned and dull, that I almost dozed off.
(and boy, were some of the jokes stale...)

I am not shocked to hear that neither She-Hulk or Thing are setting the sales charts on fire. I can see the current comic book audience not being impressed by the tone and "feel" of these two comics.

This is nothing against Mr.Slott of course, just an observation, because I have noticed all the hype and the pimping that Marvel(and fandom) does of his books, and yet I don't consider his writing the amazing thing that people say it is.
I haven't read Spider-Man/Human Torch or GLA, but after reading She-Hulk and Thing, I have no desire too.

Is Mr.Slott Marvel's most overrated writer today? (I know Bendis would be the name that comes up first when you say "overrated", but the Bendis buzz has already died down, and he is in the backlash stage)

Would like to read your thoughts on this.

[Dark Soul # 7]

The only thing I´ve read that´s written by Dan Slott is Spider-man/Human Torch and I loved that mini-series. It was funny most of the time and serious when it had to be, I laughed and almost cried at times while reading it.
Haven´t tried Thing or She-hulk yet, because neither really intrests me. But I will buy the Thing issue where Spider-man guest-stars and we´ll see where it goes from there.

I understand why alot of people wants him to write Spider-man, he is quite good at catching the character´s personality and he is a continuity fan which is a bit lacking in some parts of the Spider-verse.
I´d like to see him give it a try too but not before Robert Kirkman gets a try. That man is truly hilarious.

[david r]

I think Dan Slott is one of Marvel's best writers. I think it may be a case of different senses of humor. Jokes that knock some people out, sometimes won't work on other people. And this may be the case here.

I feel She-Hulk is one of Marvel's best titles right now. That first tpb made me a huge fan of Slott. I'm really surprised you didn't like it more. No, not all the jokes work (humor is subjective, after all.) But Slott's love of Marvel history, and his obvious affection for these characters, always put a smile on my face.

As for The Thing , I'm enjoying the series, but agree that some ingredient is missing. It isn't *connecting* with me the way "She-Hulk" has. I doubt it will last very long because by #2, it ALREADY is selling below Marvel's cancellation number of 25,000 copies sold. Bad numbers.

GLA had humor, but was different from Dan Slott. I feel it had a bit of an edge and was mean-spirited at times. I wonder what you would make of it?

[Eric_Carnaby]

.
GLA had humor, but was different from Dan Slott. I feel it had a bit of an edge and was mean-spirited at times. I wonder what you would make of it?


I heard that it took some digs at fans and fellow writers, is that true?
(if it is, I'm even less interested in reading it. But the whole dark comedy thing is appealing to me)

In any case, I am not buying She-Hulk or Thing anymore, but I wish them luck. I know what it feels to have a book I enjoy being axed.

[Cayman]

I think Slott's one of the best Marvel has right now. No-one can touch him for being able to be both old skool and contemporary at the same time.

Cay

[Expletive Deleted]

He probably gets a little too much in the way of hyperbolic praise, but he gives a certain oft-neglected subset of the audience exactly what they want.

If that's not you . . . ah well.

[Atom_basher]

I think he is overrated. but thats my OPINION

[XPac]

I wouldn't use the words brilliance or genius... but he's a fun writer. He's good at the type of book he's trying to write. People perhaps hype his stuff up a bit to support his books... and that's cool. I've probably overhyped a book or writer a bit on the internet during times I feared the book might be cancelled or is on the verge of cancellation.

She-Hulk for example is a really fun book. I wouldn't nominate it or Slott for any Eisners... but I'd certainly recommend them for people who enjoy lighter books.

[dingo]

That's funny, I think he is one of the most underrated writers. I love his stuff.

I guess he must be one of those writers that you love or hate.

[riotgear]

That's funny, I think he is one of the most underrated writers. I love his stuff.

Exactly, I was about to post the same exact thing.

[Core]

As far as comic writers who can consistently produce quality satire about the comic industry, Slott's SHE-HULK isn't matched by any books of which I can think. That book alone is a testiment to his talent as a scribe, but his mini's such as GLX and SPIDER-MAN/HUMAN TORCH have been great as well.

[ednemo]

I like Dan Slott. He is the only comic book humor writer that I will read. His stories are good...and funny. Overated? No. People are just happy to read a humor book that still manages to tell a decent in-continuity story. It's not for everybody, fortunately, there are a ton of action-packed dead-serious books out there. I always wonder why people put this sort of post out there. "I don't like this book, who's with me!?" Talk about what you do like. Explain why you like, what you feel to be an underated comics. Get people to support your comic. Don't try to convince people to not buy a comic they enjoy.

[NathanielEssex]

I've overhyped him when his comics were close to cancellation. But he is definitely one of the best writers at Marvel. Because he's not a selfish writer. I find Bendis to be Marvel's most overrated writer. Different strokes for different folks, I guess.

[Beast]

I thought their most overrated writer was Joss Whedon?

After all, his Astonishing X-Men gets tons of praise from fans and critics alike, but has been pretty bland so far. Only thing that elevated the first story arc was the return of Colossus, and the second arc with Danger Girl: The Living Danger Room recieved a lot of negative fan reaction.

[I-M-F]

I've overhyped him when his comics were close to cancellation. But he is definitely one of the best writers at Marvel. Because he's not a selfish writer. I find Bendis to be Marvel's most overrated writer. Different strokes for different folks, I guess.

I've only read She Hulk by Slott, so have no problems other than he should loose the time story idea and stick to the good old MU.

But I do agree with you about Bendis. Bendis is over rated and all i see him doing is trying to beat Stan Lee's record for writing so many issues or books.

[StoneGold]

Depends how you mean by overrated. Because he sure as hell doesn't seem to be selling.

[Eric_Carnaby]

Depends how you mean by overrated. Because he sure as hell doesn't seem to be selling.

True dat.
I just meant that his talent and skills are wildly oversold...as something phenomenal.
I find his writing mediocre.

[Evan Lanctot]

Anybody remember Slott's Ren & Stimpy comics? I thought that they were(mostly)pretty good, and in the Kricfalusi style too(even though I know JK hated them).

[Faded]

I won't name names, but Slott is far from overrated compared to some other writers IMO. Personally, I think he deserves the hype he gets from fans, especially since he's not getting the sales recognition like "overrated" writers get.

Just my two cents, though.

[Ivan Isaacs]

I think he's UNDERrated.
You just SEE that his work is a work of passion and devotion to these characters. It's not just work-for-hire-let-me-cash-me-checks.
He's books a lighter-toned (and that's exactly what I need), he PLAYS with continuity. embraces it instead of going the easy way and ignoring/retconning it like Ennis and Ellis do.

Some things are hiilarious, some things sick and sad but I really liked most of his stories so far.

I didn't like She-Hulk V1 #1 (because Jen was more or less portraited as a slut and slacker. Meh.) but the followeing issues were some of my favorites (#4 and the first two-parter) and I couldn't get fun from "Arkam Asylum: Living hell". Thing #1-3 were also not that good as I expected them to be (Thing #4 on the other hand was outstanding).
GLX was an awesome books and Slott made fun of these characters but he were more or less having fun WITH the characters instead OF them. He also made Squirrel Girl cool and Monkey Joe (R.I.P.) on of the most brilliant characters.
His Spider-Man/Human Torch was a wonderful journey back into time when Peter actually had something one could actually describe as a support cast (the absence of said cast is something I REALLY miss).

[tjarvis]

Some of his fans can be a bit enthusiastic with their praise, but I do find Slott to be a very talented writer. I do enjoy She-Hulk, which is a shock to me, since I never really had any affinity for the character.

I will agree that The Thing is leaving me underwhelmed. I don't know why, because I enjoy the art and the character, it just isn't clicking with me.

As far as sales go, Slott is admittedly working on some second tier characters. You could put Bendis or Millar on Thing and She-Hulk and still not have a title anywhere near the top twenty. I think he'll eventually push out more into the mainstream. The guy is destined to eventually be handling one of the Spider-Man books if you ask me. He understands pathos, comedy, and action . . . all three elements you need to really craft good Spidey tales. That'll probably be the book that really breaks him out to the mainstream.

[lonesomefool]

The beauty of comics is that there is truly something for everyone. Personally I have grown tired of Bendis' navel gazing writing style. Slott always gives you good bang for your buck and while I sometimes think his stories can be a little too old fashioned he provides a nice mixture of old school and new school. Personally I dont see Slott as overrated, I think that honor goes to guys like Bendis, Claremont, Milligan and even Kirkman and Ellis. Now before everyone jumps on me for my last two picks, let me say this, I LOVE Kirkman's Image work, but his Marvel super hero stuff has been pretty inconsistent and Ellis is great, when he isnt doing mainstream stuff-see Fell.

[ChildOfTheDarkholde]

Totally overrated.
His She-Hulk is not funny or clever and lacks action and his Thing, though a more enjoyable read, still not good enough for me to buy more than the first two issues.
He is not "the worst", but I'd hardly call him brilliant or genius.
And yes, that's all in my opinion, of course.

[Violently Apathetic]

I think his fans are over zealous, sure, but they are for a reason. He's a talented individual who for some reason can't seem to get the sales he deserves. While he's not my favourite writer I think his Spider-Man/Human Torch mini was a thing of true brilliance. The man has his rabid fans, but he deserves most of his kudos, IMHO.

[NathanielEssex]

"While he's not my favourite writer I think his Spider-Man/Human Torch mini was a thing of true brilliance. "

I agree with that. That Spider-Man series really WAS brilliant to me.

[Tommy]

I heard that it took some digs at fans and fellow writers, is that true?
I hardly think that a guy who takes so much time out of his life to answer fan questions is anything but totaly respectful of fandom.

That said...

She-Hulk: Excellent, Excellent book. It is the only book I regularly laugh out loud over.

Thing: A little old school, but fun.

GLA/X: Quite possibly the best thing Marvel put out in 2005.

Spider-Man/Human Torch: A bunch of charectors I don't really care about in a book I have read three or four times.

[Gargus]

In this day and age of trying to be like a reality tv / soap opera I think he is one of few. He makes the comics fun and entertaining to read and has a very blatant very subtle sense of humor that hasnt been used in a serious manner.

Why I like his she hulk so much is because he doesnt take it to serious and yet he does at the same time.

Much as I love other comics I am getting tired of trying to make every issue a big epic journey with cataclysmic reprocussions. Ever since identity crisis they went with this sureal realistic feeling where the heroes always have their heads bowed after something happens and everyother page someone is staring off at something saying in tiny print "oh my god....."

I think he is a great writer and better in alot of ways than some of the more popular ones right now straycnski (never could spell it right), or geoff johns and the like.

[Darkoth]

Oldschool...perhaps.That's the only school I want to attend.I've had my fill of *ahem* super-realism,Slott delivers fun and even wonder instead.I feel young again reading his work.

[lonesomefool]

She-Hulk takes a few digs, but none of it is really meant out of hate or anything. I think some of it is out of frustration, for instance a lot of fans say they wait for the trade on She-Hulk, so Slott had one of the characters rant about how trades are killing the monthly comic, etc. None of it is meant really out of hate, it actually fits the tone of the book very well since She-Hulk since Byrne has constantly broke the "fourth" wall.

And I like the super realism, I'll admit it freely, I love super realism, but part of the reason I like Slott so much is that it's a break from it. I can read a book like Identity Crisis and love it, and then read Thing and see a more "fun" take on characters. I think the great thing is that both books are being published, you can have a little of both.

[CyberCoyote]

Oldschool...perhaps.That's the only school I want to attend.I've had my fill of *ahem* super-realism,Slott delivers fun and even wonder instead.I feel young again reading his work.

Perfectly explained.

[twilight]

I wouldn't expect a Cable & Deadpool fan to understand real humor.

[twilight]

He is not "the worst", but I'd hardly call him brilliant or genius.And yes, that's all in my opinion, of course.

But you've pretty much made clear at this point that you'll never like anything he writes so I don't understand why you continually come into threads about him.

[lonesomefool]

Eh, Cable and Deadpool can be funny, you just need to turn your brain off for it to be funny. Some of the jokes miss horribly, but others can be funny, but a bit juvenile. I like to put it this way, it's kinda like American Pie. American Pie is very juvenile humor really, and if your looking for something along the lines of the Office or Arrested Devolpment, C&D isnt that. But it's fun for what it is, a stupid book, and I mean that in a good sense. The one change I would make it get rid of Cable, I see he's there as the serious guy and to draw in his fans, but it really only makes the book half as interesting.

[twilight]

Eh, Cable and Deadpool can be funny, you just need to turn your brain off for it to be funny.

I can appreciate silly humor but Deadpool is just a mix of Spider-Man,Wolverine,a ninja,Ron Burgundy and someone with tourettes.

Not funny.

[ChildOfTheDarkholde]

But you've pretty much made clear at this point that you'll never like anything he writes so I don't understand why you continually come into threads about him.

Not that it's any of your business, but I imagine it's for the same reason you come into this thread to act all high-and-mighty and snarky over Cable/Deadpool fans. :D

Just kidding... ;)

[lonesomefool]

Wow, I actually think Deadpool is the only thing that is worth the 2.99 a month for that book. I can see your point, but I still think he is funny. I think the character could be really interesting, but right now Nicieza is only interested in using him as the side man to Cable, he's there to kill some people and crack some one liners and then the plot turns to Cable. It's part of the reason I'm always wavering on buying the book.

[twilight]

Not that it's any of your business, but I imagine it's for the same reason you come into this thread to act all high-and-mighty and snarky over Cable/Deadpool fans. :D

I didn't come in here just for that.It just upset me to see a writer who's work I enjoy and respect being dissed when a far worse book was getting praised.

I like Slott because he's writing a believable female character,juggling superheroics with court room drama in one book and giving people a light hearted book which uses the lesser known characters as guest stars in the other.

[lonesomefool]

I agree there, She-Hulk is a much better book than Cable and Deadpool. Hell, Slott is a much better writer than Nicieza for one reason alone. He keeps his plotlines a reasonable number and actually wraps them up.

[TimmyTony]

.It just upset me to see a writer who's work I enjoy and respect being dissed when a far worse book was getting praised.


That's what we call personal opinions...
Nothing to be upset with. :)

As for Slott...God bless the man.
I love his writing, and if anything, I think he is criminally underrated.
One of the 5 best writers in the industry as far as I'm concerned.

[Crash-Man]

He isn't the worst...but the words that people used were brilliant and genius

Hyperbole is to the Internet as aliens are to sci-fi.

[Mick Martin]

I'm not sleeping outside Slott's house to get his autograph or anything; but considering that there are people like Mark Millar, Brian Michael Bendis, and Robert Kirkman in the world, I think calling Slott Marvel's most overrated writer is kind of silly.

I mean, if we're grading on a curve, i.e., is Slot overrated compared to other superhero comic book writers who are working on ongoing monthlies RIGHT NOW for either Marvel and/or DC, hell no. Slott isn't overrated. He writes solid, enjoyable, funny stories that usually don't shake the very foundations of the Earth with their insight about the depth of the characters. He's good, and in contrast to how really crappy most Marvel/DC writers are, maybe to some people that elevates him to the level of genius.

[Steppenwolf]

If i had to get only one title each month, it would be The Thing. Pacing is great. Plots are tight. Characterization is spot on. Art is wonderful. I applaud Slott for giving us stories that don't require reading 15 other titles to know what the heck is going on. Is he overrated? I don't know. I tend not to pay attention to the creator names, focussing instead on the material they create. To my knowledge, The Thing is the only Slott book I've read, and I love it. It has not disappointed me yet.

[lonesomefool]

I dont think MOST of the DC and Marvel writers are crap, I actually think most of them are pretty good. I think part of the reason Slott has ammassed such a fanbase is the fact he writes books that appeal towards the "fanboy" reader. I.e. he isnt doing a bunch of stunt stuff, isnt killing people off, isnt contradicting continuity. He is generally writing comics that a lot of fanboys and fangirls want.

But I agree with what others have said, the guy isnt overrated, I mean he isnt a superstar like some writers, and he isnt getting a push like guys like Hudlin gets.

[Tony Starkz]

Man,overrated?Hell no.The only time you hear Slott's name mentioned most of the time is by fanboys on message boards.But I will say that the praise is well deserving.4 issues into the Thing and the quality of the book just flattens any x-book any day of the week.

It's a sad thing the sales do no reflect how great this book is,but that's reality.Quality and heart are rare in any top 10 list these days regardless of what form of entertainment it is.

[xakko]

i definitely don't find him overrated.

i've loved everything i've read that he's written (and I enjoy Cable & Deadpool as well). And even while I find him funny, I think he's one of the few writers I wouldn't be too nervous taking over my favorite characters... he loves Marvel history and and seems to be doing his best to keep things within continuity

[Mick Martin]

I dont think MOST of the DC and Marvel writers are crap, I actually think most of them are pretty good. I think part of the reason Slott has ammassed such a fanbase is the fact he writes books that appeal towards the "fanboy" reader. I.e. he isnt doing a bunch of stunt stuff, isnt killing people off, isnt contradicting continuity. He is generally writing comics that a lot of fanboys and fangirls want.

I don't necessarily disagree, though I think I would say it differently. I really wouldn't say it's a "fanboy" thing because honestly I've seen the word defined so many different ways that I have no freaking clue what a fanboy is in comparison to everyone else who supposedly isn't a fanboy. I've seen continuity freaks use it to describe casual readers, and vice versa. I think pretty much everyone who reads comics has an idea of where they personally fall on the Comic Book Geek spectrum, and whoever's in opposition to that is "fanboy." I'm not trying to be PC or something about what you said, it's just kind of a long way for me to say that I thought that things like the killing off of characters is precisely what fanboys DID want, judging by all the message board threads all over the net, for example, that are doing nothing but keeping body counts of who's getting offed in Infinite Crisis.

That said, I think you did hit on what distinguishes Slott from most Marvel/DC writers. I think his style is generally much more up-beat than most Marvel/DC superhero writers, and that in and of itself makes it stand out. A lot of folks in the thread already mentioned Spider-Man/Human Torch: I'm With Stupid. I even read an interview with a professional (I want to say it's the penciler on Beechen's run of Robin, but I'm not sure) who said it was the best limited series of last year. And how many times, these days, do you hear someone say something like that about a comic book that ends with a bunch of superheroes taking pictures of each other during the holidays? Not a whole lot.

I think that's also one of the more distinguishing characteristics of Defalco's MC-2 stuff. Yeah, his style is retro which, I think, is kind of the "fanboy" appeal you were talking about in regards to Slott. But also one of the unique things about Defalco's alternate future is that it's one of the only alternate future realities where things DIDN'T go to complete hell. I just like the idea of someone saying "Hey, maybe we can have an alternate future where a few people here and there are still happy and maybe there weren't 18 world wars between now and then?"

[Owens 23]

If i had to get only one title each month, it would be The Thing. Pacing is great. Plots are tight. Characterization is spot on. Art is wonderful. I applaud Slott for giving us stories that don't require reading 15 other titles to know what the heck is going on.

I feel the same way about the Thing ongoing. I do not buy She-Hulk because of the lawyer stuff. I can't stand any lawyer stuff on TV, in comics, or otherwise.

[CMBMOOL]

Slott isn't overrated. :mad:

I mean I got both his Spider-man and Human torch and the she-hulk TPBs and consider them good, like a previous poster stated that Slott really loves Marvel histroy, She-hulk vol.3 #1-4 and the Spider-man and Human torch #4 proves that. So stop trying to put a good man down. :mad:

[Edward J Cunningham]

I bought She-Hulk initially because I was a fan of the character. I continue to buy it because I have become a fan of the writer. I also used to be a Supergirl fan, but the new series they have at DC has not grabbed me at all. It is a mystery to me why that book is the second biggest selling title for DC, as it is that She-Hulk is selling less than New Avengers, which I have no interest in reading.

http://i5.photobucket.com/albums/y165/eddiejc1/New_Fem_Four.gif (http://groups.yahoo.com/group/femfour/)

[JulianPerez]

The person that began this thread said that he was not impressed by the hyperbole related to Dan Slott. As one of the people that builds up "lots of hyperbole," I apologize to this person if he felt misled.

However, if I DO use hyperbole to describe someone like Dan Slott, it is because I want everyone to feel what I feel, to sense the enthusiasm that Dan Slott and his work creates for me. I do not use hyperbole when I say that Dan Slott is easily one of the five best writers working in superhero comics at the moment.

Dan Slott's SHE-HULK and THE THING feel like the only "Marvel" books that are still SET in the Marvel Universe. Because Dan Slott makes use of things that exist in the Marvel Universe, and not always the least obvious things: he taps into comics history, not just to dust off weird concepts like the Champion and Watcher, but also to have it influence current characterization. He told a fascinating story about the origin of Titania that we missed back then, taking her from a goon to a three-dimensional figure who experiences loss and failure. She was ON BATTLEWORLD for a REASON, and Slott filled in the blanks there. He channels the spirit of Englehart, telling a story about a villain that is frustrated and hateful.

Dan Slott uses the Marvel Universe instead of misusing it. The appearance of the mole people, the explanation for the Elders of the Universe's connection to the gems and for the She-Hulk's sudden ability to transform being restored again...not since Kurt Busiek has there been a Marvel alum that knows their history and delves into the world fully.

Also, I would not agree that Dan Slott is a humor writer exclusively; he has more in common with the Marvel tradition of wiseacre comics rife with self-awareness, but nonetheless remaining trippy adventure books, like say, with Steve Gerber. Dan Slott has a sense of humor, but no more than someone like, say, Steve Englehart. He is writing straight drama at least with SHE-HULK. And let's face it, with a group of oddballs like the GLA, there's no way it CAN'T be funny!

Dan Slott once said that superhero comics are at their best when they are about fighting gorillas on the moon. Those that agree with that statement, like I do, will fall in line with Slott's work. To those that disagree, no matter how good it is, it will never be good ENOUGH.

[TommyV]

I love a good comedy book as much as the next guy(Cable/Deadpool is one of my favorite books)




Not overrated. Talented. The fact that you cite "Cable/Deadpool" as one of your favorite books says it all - you just don't get it. Sorry, not trying to be mean, but that's like dissing "The Simpsons" while praising "The King of Queens." It just doesn't wash.

[StoneGold]

- you just don't get it.
I'd say the same thing about you.



Me, I like CDP and most Slott books.

[Waffles]

Overrated?

Considering that the only superhero comics I even buy anymore are written by Dan Slott... I think I'll have to go ahead and disagree. In a genre I've become highly cynical about I find that the love and fun that resides in Slott's work to be highly (highly!) refreshing. I hug my She Hulk comics on a regular basis just to show them the love that they have shown me. :)

[stealthwise]

Slott's ok. I like She-Hulk and GLA.

As for Deadpool... I've flipped through the latest series, and it's just not funny to me. Now when Kelly through Simone were on the character, ESPECIALLY Simone's run on Deadpool and Agent X, that was freaking hilarious.

[Mr.Musgrave]

Not overrated. Talented. The fact that you cite "Cable/Deadpool" as one of your favorite books says it all - you just don't get it.

That's exactly what I was going to say. The guy just doesn't get it. Some people like fun comics with a lot of characterization and some people like overly-serious (to the point of self-parody) "realistic" action comics.

As far as Cable/Deadpool goes...well, it might be funny in a Bevis and Butthead kinda way if Fabien Nicieza wasn't recycling jokes he used 10 years ago in the old Deadpool mini-series (if I read that "I've seen tougher G.I.Joe guys than you" joke one more time I'm going to scream.)

[StoneGold]

Now when Kelly through Simone were on the character, ESPECIALLY Simone's run on Deadpool and Agent X, that was freaking hilarious.
See, I'd say the opposite. Simone never really got the character for Wade until right before they changed the title on the book, and Agent X was never as funny a book. Oh, except for the Fight Man interlude, but that's just because I like Fight Man. Bought the One Shot back in the day. Because One Shot is all he needs!

Seriously though, if this ain't funny to you, you suck.

http://www.mcfarland.co.uk/sarah/deadpool.jpg

[lonesomefool]

Heh, that's pretty funny, I just think comparing Nicieza and Slott's humor is impossible since it's so different. Again, if you were comparing the two, Nicieza is Family Guy and Slott is Arrested Devolpment or The Office.

[lordlad]

U guys should read the GLA Misassembled story.....it's such a great parody on superheroes comicbooks.

[NickThompson]

I didn't come in here just for that.It just upset me to see a writer who's work I enjoy and respect being dissed when a far worse book was getting praised.

But don't you see the irony in that? You're upset someone has a different opinion, so you do the same thing for a book you don't like?

[stealthwise]

See, I'd say the opposite. Simone never really got the character for Wade until right before they changed the title on the book, and Agent X was never as funny a book. Oh, except for the Fight Man interlude, but that's just because I like Fight Man. Bought the One Shot back in the day. Because One Shot is all he needs!

Seriously though, if this ain't funny to you, you suck.

http://www.mcfarland.co.uk/sarah/deadpool.jpg

Yeah, it's pretty funny, but nowhere near as hilarious as the mini-Rhino story. :D

[The Shadow]

I think part of the reason Slott has ammassed such a fanbase is the fact he writes books that appeal towards the "fanboy" reader. I.e. he isnt doing a bunch of stunt stuff, isnt killing people off, isnt contradicting continuity. He is generally writing comics that a lot of fanboys and fangirls want.
Esactly what I was thinking. Well said.

Slott isn't the next Alan Moore (really... who is?) but he writes fun stories that appeal to me, the long time reader, in ways that many other writers aren't or don't. I like the classic feel to his books... much the same as I like the new feel towards Bendis'. Each has a place in my collection because if everyone wrote the same style it would get kinda boring.

he isnt getting a push like guys like Hudlin gets. The tragedy of tragedies. One writer who trashes 40+ years of history keep getting his "Hollywood" push and another who respects what happened before doesn't get the same treatment. Sad really.

[NathanielEssex]

The only thing that' s funny about that to me, are the two underwear shots. Those made me smirk! But the dialogue was pretty boring... And I don't suck.
BOOYAH! :D

[Shellhead]

Esactly what I was thinking. Well said.

Slott isn't the next Alan Moore (really... who is?) but he writes fun stories that appeal to me, the long time reader, in ways that many other writers aren't or don't. I like the classic feel to his books... much the same as I like the new feel towards Bendis'. Each has a place in my collection because if everyone wrote the same style it would get kinda boring.

The tragedy of tragedies. One writer who trashes 40+ years of history keep getting his "Hollywood" push and another who respects what happened before doesn't get the same treatment. Sad really.

I agree with your whole post, except for the part about Bendis, of course. (I enjoyed Bendis on Daredevil, but I hate what he has done with the Avengers.)

Slott is writing one of only two Marvel comics that I still buy, so I'm never going to see eye-to-eye with people who claim that he is over-rated. His work on Thing has been better than classic, in that he retains a fun silver age feel, but also really digs into the Thing's personality and motivation like few writers ever have. I think that he's actually writing above the level of most Marvel writers right now. But maybe the average Marvel fan isn't ready for that kind of writing, they're looking for two-page explosions, fan service bootay, and "realistic" writing that leaves little room for heroes.

[Doom Hammer]

EDIT: Something less combative.

[Devil May Care]

My personal opinion is thus:

I enjoy reading Dan Slott's books.

In a world of multitudes of Crises, Dissasembling, Evolving, Houses, etc, a superhero book that's there to have fun is worth noting. Not every writer suits every reader (I personally don't really care for Gail Simone, for instance), but that's the way it is.

But seriously... the Spider-Mobile. Any writer that can honestly write a fun story around the Spider-Mobile has my respect.

[Harry]

I think Dan Slott is more refreshing than anything. He's come around just at the right time. In this age of grim House of Infinite Civil Wars Summer events, it's nice to open a book that balances humour, poignancy, witticism and action all into one book. I don't hesitate in saying he's a great writer, but he's great at what he does, and what he does isn't for everyone.

And my most overrated Marvel writer award goes to Bendis as well.

EDIT: I should have read the post above mine... since I pretty much just said the exact same thing.

[NickThompson]

I don't get the whole calling people overrated thing, anyway. It basically means "I have an opinion and I'm in the minority", when you think about it.

[dingo]

I don't get the whole calling people overrated thing, anyway. It basically means "I have an opinion and I'm in the minority", when you think about it.


No it means "I think the majority opinion is undeserved".

[Stephane Garrelie]

"Dan Slott: Marvel's most overrated writer", when Bendis and Millar are around?
No way.

[NickThompson]

No it means "I think the majority opinion is undeserved".
Why is it undeserved though? Do you think anyone with a different opinion to you is wrong?

[ChildOfTheDarkholde]

Why is it undeserved though? Do you think anyone with a different opinion to you is wrong?

People who love low-selling books tend to look down on the majority (re:books that are hits)
As if there were no low-selling books that were also crappy or hit books that were also good.

[dingo]

Why is it undeserved though? Do you think anyone with a different opinion to you is wrong?

First off, I love Dan Slott and I don't think he is over-rated at all.

I was informing you of what the word means.

And yes, for the most part I do think that people with a different opinion to me are wrong. That is why I hold an opinion. Doesn't mean I can have my opinion changed with intelligent debate though.

[Big Scary]

For me Dan Slott's writing is a necessity. Where every book now seems to be a major tie in or has some very dark feel to it, Slott's work is one of the few works I can count on to truly entertain. He always stays within the Universe continuity but still writes a fun and exciting old school style superhero comic. Mostly the same kind of praise that Geoff Johns has gotten but with a bit more humor to it. Its a very old school taste but it always reminds me of what a good comic was like before the Dark Knight Returns changed everythign to such a dark vibe. Maybe its not everyones taste and maybe the word genius is a bit strong to describe his work but it definitley is in a league of its own.

[Tony Starkz]

"Dan Slott: Marvel's most overrated writer", when Bendis and Millar are around?
No way.

Ok Bendis sure,not Millar.

[Will.S]

Dan Slott writes some really fun and cool books.

My only problem is that he's a habitual 4th wall breaker which while funny a few times shouldn't be used a whole lot such as some parts of She-Hulk and GLA. There's also the out of the blue "Ok I'm gay" stuff with Flatman and Living Lightning but otherwise his Thing, She-Hulk, GLA, Spider-Man/Human Torch have been fucking excellent. I just hope Thing doesn't get canceled and I hope he gets some higher profile books in the future like maybe another team book or something.

[unkiedev]

Dan Slott's SHE-HULK and THE THING feel like the only "Marvel" books that are still SET in the Marvel Universe.

Dan Slott once said that superhero comics are at their best when they are about fighting gorillas on the moon. Those that agree with that statement, like I do, will fall in line with Slott's work. To those that disagree, no matter how good it is, it will never be good ENOUGH.

This hits the nail on the head.

Slott's books are always funny, energetic, packed with "zip-pow-bang" and respectful of Marvel continuity.

He's one of the only mainstream humor writers as well. I'd buy more comics If I knew, KNEW they would be a funny read. Slott ain't no crap shoot: He delivers on the goods!

[Tommy]

There's also the out of the blue "Ok I'm gay" stuff with Flatman.
Actualy Flatman was speculated to be gay in the GLA issues of Deadpool.

[Will.S]

Actualy Flatman was speculated to be gay in the GLA issues of Deadpool.
Never read those but I'm sure those issues are funny.

[lonesomefool]

Just to play devils advocate here, I can see how if someone only read Slott's Thing, where they wouldnt see the big deal about him. I was reading the issues last night, and I can see why some people arent crazy about it, myself included. It really isnt anywhere near his She-Hulk in terms of quality. It's still better than the average comic...but I can see why people would say he is overrated based on The Thing.

[Edward J Cunningham]

Just to play devils advocate here, I can see how if someone only read Slott's Thing, where they wouldnt see the big deal about him. I was reading the issues last night, and I can see why some people arent crazy about it, myself included. It really isnt anywhere near his She-Hulk in terms of quality. It's still better than the average comic...but I can see why people would say he is overrated based on The Thing.

Besides, Jennifer is prettier than Ben! :D

Eddie Cunningham

http://i5.photobucket.com/albums/y165/eddiejc1/New_Fem_Four.gif (http://groups.yahoo.com/group/femfour/)

[lonesomefool]

Not being drawn by Juan Bobillo she's not... ;)

[Doom Hammer]

I like Thing, but its awesomeness in relation to She-Hulk can only be observed with the assistance of an electron microscope.

Wait...did someone just say something about hyperbole? :p

[lonesomefool]

I also have to wonder if part of the difference in quality is freedom. No doubt Slott has a TON more creative freedom on She-Hulk over Thing.

[Siddon]

I like Dan's work and I think he is good enough to track down his stuff. But is he one of Marvels top 10 writers.....

In my opinion no. (Ellis, Bendis, David, Claremont, Whedon, Kirkman, JMS, Vaughn, Millar, Straczynski) [Nicieza, Brubaker, Milligan, and Ennis are still above him]

I'd like to see Slott do a great run in marvel comics because I don't think he has yet.

[Eric_Carnaby]

Great posts and great opinions, guys.
Thanks a lot to you all. (except to those who acted all funny and tried to put down fans of other comics)
I still don't see the brilliance that some speak of in Slott's writing, and I still think he is wildly overrated, but I love to read all the good arguments.

[Edward J Cunningham]

I also have to wonder if part of the difference in quality is freedom. No doubt Slott has a TON more creative freedom on She-Hulk over Thing.

I think part of it may be that the Thing (along with the FF) is not quite as popular as he used to be. Also, I think many die-hard FFers may prefer to read Ben's adventures only in the FF. This may be the reason why John Byrne had Ben leave the Fantastic Four when he began writing his solo title---to force FF fans to buy Thing if they wanted to read about Ben's adventures.

Eddie Cunningham

http://i5.photobucket.com/albums/y165/eddiejc1/New_Fem_Four.gif (http://groups.yahoo.com/group/femfour/)

[Frank]

I was surprised when I picked up She-Hulk way back a few years ago how fresh and special this book was to the other books on the market from the writing by Slott to the unual artwork of Juan Bobillo. I almost didn`t continue on because She-Hulk is not one of my favorite characters but I think it was issue 5 or 6 just blew me away so I stayed on. What they both created was a Universe where anything could happen whether it`s having a boxing match with cosmic dieties or having a ghost of a guy suing the person that killed him. But what Dan Slott had that the other writers did not is that he was not the typical super-hero writer a la Johns/Waid/Nicieza so for those that felt that genre too shallow, it felt fresh and interesting; but he wasn`t mr. uber-talky either like Bendis and Ellis with the decompressed style either. So the results is that in She-Hulk everything, every panels, every dialogue felt cracking with energy, even if Jennifer was just having a party. Because of that style I realised that Slott could probably write everything he would set his mind to. Different styles and genres...probably something even more darker.

But here`s the catch: amidst artistic changes(a more traditional artist came in), cancellations and because...it`s She-Hulk, I stopped reading it. I tried it when it was relaunched but even Bobillo`s style had changed somehow for something far less appealing. I think at the end of the day, I think Slott is a tremendous writer but they will have to give him characters and books that have a fighting chance.

Like "Classic Avengers". ;)

[Big Scary]

I think Slott's sucess with second tier characters like She-Hulk and Thing's solo book show how much talent he does have. Critically the She-Hulk run was very well received and I think it does have something going for it that not alot of books do.

[pmpknface]

I totally love Slott's work. I dont' know if this was mentioned in the 3 pgs of this thread, but his ARKHAM ASYLUM: HELL mini/tpb at DC was awesome, as was his retake on the Animated Batman book before they canned it because of the new cartoon. His GLA stuff was great too.

If you ever get the chance to meet him you'll understand how much he loves comics and what he does. Just a great guy and I'm glad he's got a few books out there I can enjoy each month.

[Ender]

I don't think he's overated just underappreciated. Much like Bendis in my mind except he's overextended. As a fan of his work I'm just afraid the "Civil War" will officially make his style irrelevant in the Marvel U.

[lonesomefool]

Bendis is underappreciated? Your kidding right....?

[dazzler_slave]

Dan Slott writes some really fun and cool books.

My only problem is that he's a habitual 4th wall breaker which while funny a few times shouldn't be used a whole lot such as some parts of She-Hulk and GLA. There's also the out of the blue "Ok I'm gay" stuff with Flatman and Living Lightning but otherwise his Thing, She-Hulk, GLA, Spider-Man/Human Torch have been fucking excellent. I just hope Thing doesn't get canceled and I hope he gets some higher profile books in the future like maybe another team book or something.
Actually, the Flatman thing wasn't out of the blue. It was hinted at for years, during their appearances in Deadpool and Thunderbolts. Slott was simply expanding on previous in continuity stories. Living Lightning was out of the blue, but who cares? It's not like it is a crime!

I love Slott's work for much of the same reasons as others here. In a time when most comics are dark and brooding, with little action and LOTS of navel gazing and talking heads, he comes along with old school comic book fun. Lots of action, respect for but not tied down by continuity, funny moments mixed with serious ones. He makes me happy to be a comic reader again!

[Frank]

What I like about him, is that even though he`s writing so-called fun books, I don`t think that`s the only thing you get from his writing. That`s why you can`t pidgeon-hole him easily and that`s rare.

[dazzler_slave]

What I like about him, is that even though he`s writing so-called fun books, I don`t think that`s the only thing you get from his writing. That`s why you can`t pidgeon-hole him easily and that`s rare.
Exactly Frank! He is multi-faceted!

[Will.S]

Actually, the Flatman thing wasn't out of the blue. It was hinted at for years, during their appearances in Deadpool and Thunderbolts. Slott was simply expanding on previous in continuity stories. Living Lightning was out of the blue, but who cares? It's not like it is a crime!
I guess I could chalk up the Flatman thing to not having as much previous knowledge of the character but my problem was the way Dan just kinda made both their outings as sort of off hand jokes and expects us to really just take it seriously from there.

I would hope to see more of that explored in other books (at least the Living Lightning one) because it didn't make a whole lot of sense given his past history although it does create interesting conflict with his religion. Anyway, I won't make a big deal out of it because really Dan's She-Hulk and Spider-Man/Human Torch are some of the most enjoyabe books I've read from him with Thing coming in second. I have a feeling that the book will be canceled though because I just can't see a solo FF book surviving long with the other juggernaut books like Civil War, New Avengers and the X-Stuff. Here's hoping that it sticks around though.

[Ender]

Bendis is underappreciated? Your kidding right....?

I meant that overextended applied to him.

[Haunt]

Bendis is underappreciated? Your kidding right....?

i find his writing undercooked and his resemblance to Uncle Fester understated. does that count? :)

[The Shadow]

I now wonder if this thread was started by one of the idiots that drove Dan from Newsarama.

http://www.newsarama.com/forums/showthread.php?threadid=63724

Some sick idiots have made it their personal goal to hound Dan because they don't like HIS version of She-Hulk yet write incest fan fics about her!

:evilangry
:evilangry
:evilangry

[Will.S]

I now wonder if this thread was started by one of the idiots that drove Dan from Newsarama.

http://www.newsarama.com/forums/showthread.php?threadid=63724

Some sick idiots have made it their personal goal to hound Dan because they don't like HIS version of She-Hulk yet write incest fan fics about her!

:evilangry
:evilangry
:evilangry
Damn that sucks.

I hope he posts here every once and a while, at least here I don't think the venom is as poisonous as the Newsarama one. There's a reason I stay away from those God-awful forums and that's why. Quite frankly I'm glad that at least the moderation here is enforced and things don't go out of hand.

Hey Dan, we still love ya dawg!

[lonesomefool]

I think a couple of the people post here, so I doubt we will see Dan. Bendis invited him over there, and I know he still posts at Millarworld because both those sites have very strict no-creator bashing rules. Part of it is Dan should have known what type of place Newsarama is in the first place and the second is these idiots need to stop taking everything so seriously. For anyone that harrasses a COMIC BOOK creator over a COMIC BOOK CHARACTER....you need to open your door and walk outside. See, on the outside are people and you should really be around them. Why you ask? Because it is obvious you have zero social skills, are a shut-in and need to understand that comic books are a form of entertainment and you should never take entertainment so seriously it causes HARRASSMENT.

[unkiedev]

Dan has posted around here in the past. Not on this thread, certainly...that would be weird.

Dan is the best. One of the most UNDERRATED, and I sure hope they give that boy a spidey book!

[The Shadow]

For anyone that harrasses a COMIC BOOK creator over a COMIC BOOK CHARACTER....you need to open your door and walk outside. See, on the outside are people and you should really be around them. Why you ask? Because it is obvious you have zero social skills, are a shut-in and need to understand that comic books are a form of entertainment and you should never take entertainment so seriously it causes HARRASSMENT.
LOL

I agree!

It's sad, pathetic and uncalled for.

[NathanielEssex]

A Dan Slott Spider-Man comic would be a dream.....

(Looks at the sky) I don't ask for much God...

[pmpknface]

I just read Dan's post on n-rama.

Wow...

YOU GO DAN!!!!! :D

And if Peter David ever leaves FNSpidey, Dan better get the nod to pick it up!

[unkiedev]

Pumpkinface, can you forward a link to the Dan Slott newsarama thing?

[pmpknface]

I followed it from the link above, but this'll get you there:

http://www.newsarama.com/forums/showthread.php?postid=1765536&highlight=Eddie#post1765536

[unkiedev]

Woah! that's incredible! He read my fanfic ;)

(EDIT: o.k., that was an awful joke)

no, seriously, that was pretty awful. I'm glad he's going to focus on personal stuff. Squabbling with comic book fans is for the birds (Says the guy who spent a good deal of yesterday on the x-boards).

[Expletive Deleted]

There are some real looney tunes fans out there.

I think this thread has been relatively decent, though. Most folks seem to be in the "live and let live" camp.

[pmpknface]

HAHAHAHA!!! I've had the pleasure of meeting Dan a few times, and I can't even imagine what some freakazoids have done to cheeze him off, because he's really a funny, happy guy who is more than willing to share insight on his material with fans. He's one of the few creators that are more excited to talk to fans about comics then they are to talk to him! :)

[unkiedev]

I think his issue of She-Hulk where Peter Parker sues the Daily Bugle for defamation and slander was probably the best comic book of 2004 (2005?)

[Expletive Deleted]

I think his issue of She-Hulk where Peter Parker sues the Daily Bugle for defamation and slander was probably the best comic book of 2004 (2005?)It's up there, but if his Spider-Mobile issue of SPIDER-MAN/HUMAN TORCH came out the same year . . . no contest.

That issue absolutely destroyed me.

[pmpknface]

It's up there, but if his Spider-Mobile issue of SPIDER-MAN/HUMAN TORCH came out the same year . . . no contest.

That issue absolutely destroyed me.
Great ish! Hhhmmmm....... fruit pies......

(write up: http://www.spiderfan.org/comics/reviews/spiderman_human_torch/003.html)

Oh - It was May 2005.

[Cybak]

I like Dan Slott's work alot. When I hear Marvel and overrated the first person I think of is Joss Whedon. People treat this guy like the second coming. I don't dislike his work but it's like a series of fill-in issues. Pretty bleh stuff.

[The Shadow]

I think this thread has been relatively decent, though. Most folks seem to be in the "live and let live" camp.
I think so too... I just hope Dan sees that and continmues to make the odd appearance here.

I think part of the Newsarama problem is they only have 1 moderator for all the forums... and Brady's gotta sleep sometime!

[Frank]

I think so too... I just hope Dan sees that and continmues to make the odd appearance here.

I think part of the Newsarama problem is they only have 1 moderator for all the forums... and Brady's gotta sleep sometime!

There`s an easy solution when so many people go out of line in forums: start banning! :D

[Tommy]

Dan Slott knocked me over one day and stole my lunch money!

[Expletive Deleted]

Yeah, yeah. Obligatory "Dan Slott's Thing" joke here.

You know, I think this conversation has pretty much run it's course. So . . .