Hero's Journey: Gage Talks "Annihilation: Conquest - Quasar"

[andy khouri]

This July in "Annihilation: Conquest - Quasar," the new Quasar Phyla-Vell must live up to the heroic legacy she inherited or the Universe is doomed. CBR News spoke with writer Christos Gage.

http://www.comicbookresources.com/news/newsitem.cgi?id=10334

[Cayman]

Sounds great, I'm really looking forward to the mini.

[Deus ex Chris]

I'm so excited about this! I love Gage's work, and I can get behind his understanding of Phylla. Also, I love the preview pages. Phylla looks great, but can we please get a better outfit for Moondragon? It's only fair that she be as fabulously dressed as her lover.

[Expletive Deleted]

I actually prefer Moondragon's costume. There's something about the asymmetry of Phyla's new outfit that just bugs me.

Regardless, it sounds like a fun mini. With all the other heroes apparently planetbound by whatever tech-negating menace is out there, it'll be up to Gage to really bring the cosmic scope to this sucker.

[Deus ex Chris]

There's something about the asymmetry of Phyla's new outfit that just bugs me.
That's the best part!

[Elegance Liberty]

I still plan to glance through this when I see it in the shop, but color me impressed on Gage's commentary about it so far.

Also, I love Phyla's new costume.

[MatthewDiCarlo]

Gage is one of my two favorite comics writers to come along over the last couple of years and I think this is going to be great. Really looking forward to it. Is he still doing a heap of TV work or does he have room for a Marvel ongoing anytime soon?

[christosgage]

He's got room.

:)

[Dark Soul # 7]

That was a cool piece of commentary.
I've really enjoyed Gage's writing, and hopefully he will get a monthly Marvel comic someday.
Until then I will enjoy Quasar and WWH: X-men.

I'm so getting this mini, and Wraith.

[bmschweigert]

That was a cool piece of commentary.
I've really enjoyed Gage's writing, and hopefully he will get a monthly Marvel comic someday.


Just as long as he doesn't leave Stormwatch!

Stormwatch PHD (Issues 3 and 4) were the first things I ever read by Gage. I went back and bough the previous issues, and am now looking forward to whatever he does next.

[Mysterio's Helmet]

I'll be picking this up. SUPER ADAPTOID, (not Awesome.....sorry guys) should make for a good villian but I'm more interested in what the tweak will be to the character. As for Phylla, bring her on. I've always thought Heather was a bit of a curmudgeon, so I'm interested to see if she still is a stick in the mud like she's always been. Another point, interested to see ,besides the sword manifestation, how the Qbands will work for Phylla.


I'm curious though, Christos, if somewhere in the mini you went for the tender embrace amidst war scene between Phylla and Moonie. I'd be sorely tempted. Wonder if you were.......???

At any rate, I'll be picking up all of these bad boys.......looking forward to it!

:)

[RDFozz]

Opponent is the Super-Adaptoid, not the Awesome Android.

Awesome Andy if the block-headed, gray android seen for the past couple of years in Dan Slott's SHE-HULK book. Super-Adaptoid is a green-colored android whose appearance alters based on the powers he has absorbed, and has traditionally been an Avengers opponent.

Last appearance that sticks out in my mind for the Super-Adaptoid was MARVEL TWO-IN-ONE 75, at which point he did indeed have the powers of most of the key Avengers (including Vision, Iron Man, Captain America, and others), Captain Marvel, and the Thing). However, the android power templates have been reset in the past; does anyone know of more recent appearances, where he may have started his power copying from scratch?

RD Francis

[Quasar's Bands]

Ok, Chris, you've won me over. I know the series will sell well. I also know that some in the sales department at Marvel will decide that BECAUSE of this fact, Wendell's replacement is more "sellable" - which will probably prevent him from returning for a long time. Damn.

That being said, if you remove Phyla's arrogance, make her more of a "noble, strong female hero," and keep her relationship with Moondragon solid, then you've got the potential for a great character there. There will be some bitterness in my mouth in buying the book, but I got to admit - I like the way you think and you really do seem to have a good idea here. I'll buy the series.

I also need to admit, that in working on the fan fiction story over in quantumzone.org (we're approaching 200 hits and counting!), I've grown to like Phyla and even Moondragon (THAT surprises me) more and more. Moondragon's "tender" side is never shown, but I'm betting that you will show it in her relationship with Phyla - which is very cool. I'm a Wendell fan, but there is something great about these gals I'm growing to love over time.

Good luck on the series!

[toneloak]

This was a very affective interview. See I was on the fence as whether to pick up Annihilation: Conquest (I didn't think there were going to be enough war themes clashing with distinct personalities). But now after this interview I since a over all conscious effort to stylize and depict these characters' journey to the front line of this war. And that's really what I wanted.:)

BTW, I hope Gage gets a ongoing Quasar too. All I want after that is a ongoing Drax & Cammi written by Giffen. That Drax The Destroyer mini was excellent for many reason. Any Marvel fan should pick it up you won't be disappointed. For me, it really added a lot more depth to the Drax Cammi relationship and Annihilation.

[christosgage]

Last appearance that sticks out in my mind for the Super-Adaptoid was MARVEL TWO-IN-ONE 75, at which point he did indeed have the powers of most of the key Avengers (including Vision, Iron Man, Captain America, and others), Captain Marvel, and the Thing). However, the android power templates have been reset in the past; does anyone know of more recent appearances, where he may have started his power copying from scratch?

RD Francis

In a later issue of the first HULK series (after PAD left), a bad guy forced Banner to retool the Adaptoid's CPU so that he could access the powers of anyone he's ever faced!

If you want tender girl-on-girl embraces, check out the Prologue. Mike Perkins does them well. (Oh, behave!) My mini will definitely have their relationship as a focal point, but the frenetic pace precludes much in the way of romantic interludes.

Thanks for the kind words, all!

CNG

[Elegance Liberty]

If you want tender girl-on-girl embraces, check out the Prologue. Mike Perkins does them well. (Oh, behave!) My mini will definitely have their relationship as a focal point, but the frenetic pace precludes much in the way of romantic interludes.

Thanks for the kind words, all!

CNG
Just so long as you don't throw in 'forced' moments -as if to say 'by the way, they're lesbians!'-, then it's cool with me.

Don't get me wrong, I LOVE Phyla/Moondragon as a pair (one of my favorites in the Marvel U.), but I don't want the overall story to get sidetracked in favor of gratuitous 'fanservice' (sorry, anime fandom lingo still remains in me), if you know what I mean.

Actually, I don't really like ANY romantic stuff forcefully shoved in for the sake of it being there -be it het, same or both-.
(I'd be just as annoyed if we got Nova/Gamora stuff shoehorned in the first 'Annihilation' series, so shush to anyone assuming me otherwise)

[CMBMOOL]

I kinda like the new look on Quasar. :D

May even give this mini series a chance. :p

[Shonzi]

Christos, Being that Quasar was what initially got me into comics, so there's a certian reverence for Wendell, I had a lot of trepidation for the new series. When I initially saw you replying to the Wendell supporters I felt a little better but not much. But reading your interview I actually really look forward to the series regardless. Your eye for continuity and interest in the characters really impress me, so I will for sure be picking up the series, and if I like it enough I'll convince my friends to pick it up to. Good job.

[christosgage]

That's much appreciated Shonzi -- like I said in the interview, I respect the feelings of Wendell fans (and have read all 60 issues of his run) if they choose not to buy the book, but hope they give it a shot on its own merits, and it makes me happy that's what you're doing.

And Elegance Liberty, I try not to put in anything forced, romantic or otherwise...that's just bad writing! Not to say I'm never guilty of that, but I try! :)

Best,

CNG

[Spamotron]

Is this a different Super-Adaptoid because I thought the original became virtually all powerful by copying the Cosmic Cube and was then talked into suicide by Captain America.

Edit: I'm sure I read about it on the Marvel Appendix a while back but right now all I kind find is the Yelena Belova Super-Adaptoid entry.

http://www.marvunapp.com/

[XPac]

Is this a different Super-Adaptoid because I thought the original became virtually all powerful by copying the Cosmic Cube and was then talked into suicide by Captain America.

Edit: I'm sure I read about it on the Marvel Appendix a while back but right now all I kind find is the Yelena Belova Super-Adaptoid entry.

http://www.marvunapp.com/

In his Wikipedia entre (which admittedly isn't always the best of sources), it does say a Super Adaptoid showed up after that whole Cosmic Cube incident. Never read that appearnace myself... could have been a different Adaptoid I suppose. Obviously it's possible to create a new one since Yelena Belova was turned into one.

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Adaptoid

[shanejayell]

I'm REALLY looking forward to this. *grin*

[Cthulhudrew]

Is this a different Super-Adaptoid because I thought the original became virtually all powerful by copying the Cosmic Cube and was then talked into suicide by Captain America.

That story did take place, but the original SA showed up at some point afterwards with no apparent explanation as to its resurrection. I know for sure it turned up in a Heroes for Hire story (#12, I think- it was a crossover with the Thunderbolts before the TBolts were outed as villains). In it, the SA seemed to just be its usual destructive self, back to its original power set (the original Avengers and Cap).

[DoctorDoom]

I'm looking forward to this.

[The Deadpool]

Sounds like Phylla/Moondragon may be the first homosexual pairing I enjoy... Hoozah...

Anyways, I'm more worried about what Phylla is searching for.

I'm also curious as to what the hell Thanos asked of Annihilus, and if it'll be revealed in Conquest at all...

[Mysterio's Helmet]

Well, if the Super Adaptoid is the heavy here and he used to have dealings with a/the Cosmic Cube, could it be said that perhaps Phylla is after the Cosmic Cube then? And if so........why? Who else would be pulling the Adaptoid's strings? Who could?

Probably the wrong line of thinking......but it's a start......


Conquest suggests a taking over. I like that other theory about the Baron trying to take over........it makes sense.

Trying to figure it out......brain......seizing....................... ........


It'll be fun, no doubt.

[Mysterio's Helmet]

I'm curious though, Christos, if somewhere in the mini you went for the tender embrace amidst war scene between Phylla and Moonie. I'd be sorely tempted. Wonder if you were.......???


Just saw those preview pages on Joe Fridays.


HA!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Called it. Just not in your book per se.

[Cthulhudrew]

Well, if the Super Adaptoid is the heavy here and he used to have dealings with a/the Cosmic Cube, could it be said that perhaps Phylla is after the Cosmic Cube then? And if so........why? Who else would be pulling the Adaptoid's strings? Who could?

Hmm- good thinking. Actually, Glorian was peripherally involved in the last Annihilation, and he is the go to guy for another Cosmic Cube- the Shaper of Worlds.

Maybe the CCs are involved in this somehow, or else maybe they need the CCs to combat whatever menace is out there. After all, if technology is useless, then having a device that can warp reality would be pretty invaluable.

[aniscape]

Hello all... God real life gets in the middle of everything...

Been so busy at work I have had no time for anything else. Anyway my thoughts below:

Christos... I am in... I am going to fight like hell and do everything I can to bring Wendell back but I can't ignore what I have read so far about Annihilation Conquest and the Quasar book you are putting out. There is room for both and Phyla and Wendell. And after seeing some art and now that the story is a bit more fleshed out I want to read about both characters!

Please don't forget who Wendell is and what he has brought to the name Quasar and I look forward to everyday hearing news of Wendells return...maybe in the pages of Fantastic Four???

Next stop...the Quantum Zone!

[christosgage]

I read 60 issues, I'm not going to forget about Wendell any time soon! :) Thanks for giving this a chance, folks!

Best,

CNG

[IMJ]

If I'm excited about anything that Christos is doing, is Iron Man before Quasar. Oh man, that's going to be great.

Christos: Two questions, man!
How about some updates regarding what you are doing on Iron Man for Advanced Iron?
AAaaannnddd, how long are you replacing the Knauf's on the book?

MODS: This was a stream of consciousness post, but please leave it here because it plugs Gage's work on Iron Man for the Quasar guys (which I'm one of, too)!

[Red Orion]

The book sounds okay but I won't be picking it up. I have problems reading a book which has the title character dating a rapist (Moondragon).

[christosgage]

If I'm excited about anything that Christos is doing, is Iron Man before Quasar. Oh man, that's going to be great.

Christos: Two questions, man!
How about some updates regarding what you are doing on Iron Man for Advanced Iron?
AAaaannnddd, how long are you replacing the Knauf's on the book?

MODS: This was a stream of consciousness post, but please leave it here because it plugs Gage's work on Iron Man for the Quasar guys (which I'm one of, too)!

I'm writing Iron Man #19 and 20, which tie in with World War Hulk. Drawn by the amazing Butch Guice! Can't say much due to potential spoilage, but I had a blast writing them and the pages I've seen look fantastic. Hope you enjoy 'em!

Best,

CNG

[christosgage]

The book sounds okay but I won't be picking it up. I have problems reading a book which has the title character dating a rapist (Moondragon).

Not sure what you're referring to (the thing with Thor maybe?) but if it was before 1990 or so most of her evil acts were explained as occurring under the influence of the Dragon of the Moon, a demonic entity that had possessed her. Not saying that makes it OK, and it's something she still struggles with, but IIRC, she was essentially being controlled by another being in something similar to demonic possession.

[Red Orion]

Not sure what you're referring to (the thing with Thor maybe?) but if it was before 1990 or so most of her evil acts were explained as occurring under the influence of the Dragon of the Moon, a demonic entity that had possessed her. Not saying that makes it OK, and it's something she still struggles with, but IIRC, she was essentially being controlled by another being in something similar to demonic possession.

Yes I'm talking about the time she raped Thor in Avengers #219-220 the same arc in which she stripped an entire planet of free-will and killed her father. And IIRC it was only said that Dragon influenced her and didn't actually control her until that Defenders arc where he made her try to kill the Defenders so it was still her who chose to do the things she did it's just the Dragon was encouraging her. And seeing as how after the Dragon was killed and his influence gone she still tried to kill her cousin and two former teammates I doubt the Dragon even had to influence her that much.

[AllisterH]

So here's a question:

Will Epoch and Gravity be showing up in the new book?

[christosgage]

Nope. There's a good reason why, but I can't reveal it.

Best,

CNG

[Quasar's Bands]

On that point, Christos, I have a question - I'm just curious -

Andy said it was always his idea to, er, annihilate Wendell and take his Bands away in this miniseries, but the decision to give them to Phyla came later.

When was it decided to give the Protector designation to Gravity, and for that matter, to kill Gravity in the Beyond miniseries? Was it 1) kill the protector/quasar, 2) kill Gravity, 3) give Bands to Phyla and 4) give Protector degination to Gravity OR 2) give Protector designation to Gravity, 3) Kill Gravity first, and 4) Give Bands to Phyla?

Once Wendell was removed from the equation, several things happened - I've been curious as to the sequence of decisions, that's all. I have to guess that when Gravity was first introduced as a character, this whole "kill then become Protector" thing was not on anyone's radar, right?

QB

[christosgage]

Honestly, I have no idea. You'd have to ask Tom Brevoort, he's the only one I can think of who might be able to answer your question. Sorry!

[drwho]

I cant wait for the scene where Epoch shows up to bitch slap Phyla with her tentacles for stealing her quantum bands. Also will be great seeing phyla flee for her life in horror and hiding under a desk while moon dragon massages her shoulders naked. hmmm.

Cant wait ;)

I'm thinking gravity was supposed to be Captain Marvel before they decided to bring back the original.

[Enigmanaut]

I cant wait for the scene where Epoch shows up to bitch slap Phyla with her tentacles for stealing her quantum bands. Also will be great seeing phyla flee for her life in horror and hiding under a desk while moon dragon massages her shoulders naked. hmmm.

Cant wait ;)

I'm thinking gravity was supposed to be Captain Marvel before they decided to bring back the original.

Actually, I have a bad feeling about whether Eppy will make it out of FF alive.

[Leunames]

I cant wait for the scene where Epoch shows up to bitch slap Phyla with her tentacles for stealing her quantum bands. Also will be great seeing phyla flee for her life in horror and hiding under a desk while moon dragon massages her shoulders naked. hmmm.

Cant wait ;)

I'm thinking gravity was supposed to be Captain Marvel before they decided to bring back the original.


Actually, I have a bad feeling about whether Eppy will make it out of FF alive.

I'm hoping that Galactus actually acts true to form and lays down the law on Epoch...which potentially could explain why she and gravity won't show up in conquest. And no more cosmic hammerlocks on heralds of Galactus hopefully.

That being said I've posted this before in ask-Andy thread...I really had zero interest in Quasar. Even in annihilation I wasn't concerned at all over his death, but when I heard phyla getting the bands, that actually piqued my interest. There's so many things you can do with phyla's character with the bands. I'm def gonna pick up the series and go for the ride.

[Quasar's Bands]

Actually, I have a bad feeling about whether Eppy will make it out of FF alive.

That would be ridiculous - her father survivies for millions of years, she's born upon his death, and she's killed soon afterward? Makes no sense.

[Tien Long]

I must say that I am interested in this new mini. I was a pretty big fan of the first Annihilation series, especially the appearances by Quasar, (Wendell Vaughn). Like alot of you, I was kinda sad and angry when Wendell was killed off, and replaced by Phyla. I was shocked that the latest in a line of defenders of the universe was some relatively newly introduced character, and a lesbian no less!

HOWEVER, after alot of time and thinking, as well as reading some of the interviews with the people behind the new Annihilation series and related minis, I think I'm starting become interested to this new Quasar series, mainly b/c it deals with two fascinating subjects: legacy and spirituality. I wonder how Phyla reacts to carrying the legacies of Mar-Vell and Vaughn, arguably two of the greatest heroes in the universe. How will she honor them? Does she even know the name of the Quasar before her and what he's done? Secondly, I'm really interested in this concept of "Joan of Arc in Space." Developing oneself spritually through journey and trial is something not really prevalent in moder-day comics. Plus, I've always wondered what were some of the philosophies behind the "Priests of Pama."

I also hope we do get to see a bit more characterization of Moondragon and Phyla. I think both in the past have been characterized as arrogant "space bitches" (at least Moondragon anyway). I'm not against any tender, romantic, lesbian moments (I say we need more of them!) But for the sake of the series, I hope such scenes serve to develop the characters.

Anyway, hope to see this series soon!

[BooCoo]

That would be ridiculous - her father survivies for millions of years, she's born upon his death, and she's killed soon afterward? Makes no sense.

Yeah, pops was 8 BILLION FREAKING YEARS OLD and a major cosmic player...why would or should Galactus be slapping anyone like that around? It's getting ridiculous, the G man hype.