Shows
The Old Young Ones on Radio MisfitsThe Old Young Ones – BombThis episode blows up, meaning it goes a full 90 minutes! Jon and Howie talk to radio personality Andrew Torres about how between the characters taking a moment to breathe, tighter transitions and self contained sketches, this may be the best episode of “The Young Ones” yet. Plus, Jon and Andrew’s days at the Museum of Television and Radio, the derivation of the word “yobbo” and why a one-hit wonder doesn’t play their one hit. [Ep4]
2024-05-2900 minThe Old Young Ones on Radio MisfitsThe Old Young Ones – IntroductionWho are The Young Ones, and why are Jon Clarke and Howie Weingarten talking about them 40 years later? Jon and Howie discuss the origins of the world’s first punk sitcom, which took a stage show approach in attacking the state of television and a scattershot structure to bring in more of the British alt comedy scene. Plus, how Jon and Howie found the show 10 years after it aired and why the early 80s’ British scene connected so strongly with kids in the heart of grunge.
2024-03-2654 min
Caffeinated Comics on Radio MisfitsCaffeinated Comics – Announcing an AnnouncementThere are big plans afoot! Jon heard a podcast idea from Howie Weingarten so good it will shake the foundation of “Caffeinated Comics” itself! Stay tuned for all the details in the next episode. Plus, disappointing Super Bowl ads, a Batman creator steps on Jon’s legacy, and pinning all hopes on Ryan Reynolds. [Ep370]
2024-02-1312 minCaffeinated Comics on Radio MisfitsCaffeinated Comics – Kinky UreterJon drops in for a quick podcast when life gets in the way. Jon’s son went into the hospital for a routine surgery that felt anything but routine. Jon discusses how Ben is doing now, the calming power of Adam West, and why geek culture is meant to be a distraction, not a stress. [Ep368]
2024-01-3117 minCaffeinated Comics on Radio MisfitsCaffeinated Comics – Good Bad or Bad Bad?Jon and Howie Weingarten took the holiday weekend to cram in as many “Mystery Science Theater 3000” level movies as possible. Some were amazing, some were painful and some were unwatchable. But if they were all bad, what’s the difference? Jon and Howie discuss the difference in tone and how the filmmakers sense of fun translates to an audience, even if the execution stinks. Plus, how much does nostalgia play into reviewing old movies, the FOMO of rotten movies, and why we return to franchises over and over again. [Ep359]
2023-11-291h 05Caffeinated Comics on Radio MisfitsCaffeinated Comics – Happy Belated Batman DayJon had COVID all last week so we’re celebrating Batman Day today! Jon and Elliott discuss why the strikes have slowed down momentum for the world’s most popular comic book character, how current loyalty can turn into nostalgia and when we can expect the next Bat renaissance. Plus, a new Doctor Who trailer, non-sexual man crushes, and why no one will remember Larry, Daryll and Daryll. [Ep350]
2023-09-251h 02Caffeinated Comics on Radio MisfitsCaffeinated Comics – Remembering Bill MonroeBill Monroe was the host of “the Strokecast”, a seasoned public speaker and a frequent guest of the show. He was also Jon’s best friend. Jon tells the story of how he and Bill met in the 1980s, the adventures they had from Seattle to Las Vegas to the Dominican Republic and how Bill’s eternal optimism overshadowed his own stroke and sudden passing. Plus, a rebroadcast of their 2016 discussion about Star Trek’s 50th anniversary. [EP333]
2023-05-221h 31Caffeinated Comics on Radio MisfitsCaffeinated Comics – Why So Much?Disney needs quarterly profits so bad they fired a billionaire. Jon and Elliott discuss how overspending on Disney Plus led to the company slashing 5.5 billion out of its budget. Plus, the streaming arms race, missing event movies and monthly comics in a sea of content and why Jon sounds like an angry alt comic this week. [EP326]
2023-04-041h 03Caffeinated Comics on Radio MisfitsCaffeinated Comics – Happy 2023 MinisodeJon drops in for a few words on the new year and a decade of doing the podcast. Plus, Jon and Elliott do a radio show on WCPT. [EP312]
2023-01-0312 minCaffeinated Comics on Radio MisfitsCaffeinated Comics – MCU ReVU: Spider-Man: HomecomingThe most popular character in the Marvel Universe gets his first movie in the MCU! Jon, Elliott and Tom welcome former Marvel writer and editor D.G. Chichester to discuss how this Spider-man is different from the previous Sony incarnations and the rest of the MCU while being true to the character, the bold choice of picking Batman to play the villain, and whether this movie has even a single flaw. Plus, Jon’s multiple personal connections to this film, what it was like to work at a very different Marvel Comics in the 90s and why Elliott loves D.G. C...
2022-10-181h 14Caffeinated Comics on Radio MisfitsCaffeinated Comics – Batgirl GoneWhy did Warner Brothers mothball a 90 million dollar movie? Jon and Elliott discuss the fallout from the WB Discovery merger, the de-escalation of HBO Max and the perceived quality of the straight-to-streaming DC movie. Plus, Spider-Man Day and remembering Nichelle Nichols, Alan Grant and Jon’s Aunt Peggy. [EP291]
2022-08-081h 05Caffeinated Comics on Radio MisfitsCaffeinated Comics – Streaming BonanzaJon and Steven are back for an in-person podcast! With “Obi-Wan Kenobi”, “Strange New Worlds”, “Stranger Things”, “The Boys” and more, how much streaming is too much streaming? Is one episode a week the new normal? How fast do you have to watch a series to avoid spoilers? And why is the new season of “Kids in the Hall” so worthwhile? Plus, Jon has a big birthday in Seattle and is now old. [EP282]
2022-06-061h 15Caffeinated Comics on Radio MisfitsCaffeinated Comics – Spider-Man: No Way Home Blu-RayIt’s a special bonus MCU ReVU episode! Jon and Elliott welcome Neal Fischer to discuss the pandemic’s biggest hit taking over home video. Elliott opens the physical disc while Jon streams the movie repeatedly and Neal remembers his theater experience. Are discs on their way out or becoming the next collector’s item? Do extras matter? And how good is this movie still? All this plus Neal’s new book about Patrick Swayze. [EP276]
2022-04-251h 07Caffeinated Comics on Radio MisfitsCaffeinated Comics – PeacemakerCould James Gunn’s HBO Max series about the worst character in “The Suicide Squad” be the best thing he’s ever done? Jon and Steven discuss the theme of toxic masculinity that runs through all of Gunn’s work, over-the-top violence and marrying very talented women. Plus, “Book of Boba Fett” slides a Mandalorian episode into our DMs, John Romita Jr. returns to Amazing Spider-Man and Jon spoils the ending of The Walking Dead. [EP264]
2022-01-311h 13Caffeinated Comics on Radio MisfitsCaffeinated Comics – MCU ReVU Iron ManIt’s the inaugural episode of the MCU ReVU! Jon Clarke, Elliott Serrano and Dave Pinto welcome Brian Moore to discuss Marvel’s first attempt at financing their own pictures, and their first blockbuster. Is this movie still accessible to first time viewers? How did Jon Favreau’s style differ from other superhero franchises, even those based on Marvel superheroes? And what is Elliott’s obsession with the Bloomin’ Onion? [EP 263]
2022-01-241h 40Caffeinated Comics on Radio MisfitsCaffeinated Comics – Book of Boba FettStar Wars returns right when Marvel takes a break! Jon and Steven discuss whether the new show was the first pitch for “The Mandalorian”, how Jon Favreau surpassed JJ Abrams and whether one show can hold multiple genres of sci fi, western and mafia movies. Plus, standing by someone who’s been canceled, escalating media for catalog titles and missing Bob Saget and Bob Einstein while celebrating Mark Normand. [EP261]
2022-01-101h 14Caffeinated Comics on Radio MisfitsCaffeinated Comics – 2021 Leaves2020 had drama. 2021 had leftovers. Jon and Steven focus on the good of 2021, which was Spider-man: No way Home and some other things. Plus, Douglas Wolk reads every Marvel comic and writes a book about it, Taschen creates an omnibus to end all omnibuses and Jon falls in love with Lego all over again. [EP260]
2022-01-031h 09Caffeinated Comics on Radio MisfitsCaffeinated Comics – Get BackBeatles go geek! Jon welcomes Walker Horning to discuss the nearly 7 hours of new footage taken from the “Let It Be” sessions. Jon and Walker discuss the humanization of the iconic band by nearly living with them in the documentary, their songwriting process laid bare and why the Beatles music not only endures but never seems to age. Plus, the new “Spider-Man” trailer and “The Book of Boba Fett” take them back to everything in their shared Gen X south Queens childhood. [EP256]
2021-12-0653 minCaffeinated Comics on Radio MisfitsCaffeinated Comics – Remembering Norm MacDonaldJon still misses Norm. So does Mike Drucker. Jon and the co-head writer of “Full Frontal with Samantha Bee” discuss Norm’s legacy from his dark minimalism to his commitment to a bit in the face of apathy or disdain. Plus, the genius of the Fantastic Four sketch and what Mike bought instead of the Haslab Galactus. [EP246]
2021-09-2848 minCaffeinated Comics on Radio MisfitsCaffeinated Comics – Shang ChiMarvel’s appeal to the Asian market becomes an appeal to send us all back to movie theaters. Jon and Steven discuss SPOILERS on “Shang Chi” including the post credit scene, THAT cameo and how much actually comes from the comics. Plus, Jon visits the Marvel exhibit at the Museum of Science and Industry and sees all the original art and all the costumes. [EP243]
2021-09-061h 19Caffeinated Comics on Radio MisfitsCaffeinated Comics – RereadableJon and Steven have a lot of old comics on the shelf. Some are nostalgic, some are classic. But which are worth going back to? They discuss the accessibility of long runs and where to start with runs that span multiple issues, or even volumes. Plus, the latest Galactus tally, the Clarke family history and a guest appearance from a thunderstorm. [EP237]
2021-07-261h 02Caffeinated Comics on Radio MisfitsCaffeinated Comics – AT&T Dumps DCWarner Brothers, HBO and DC Comics get sold again! Jon and Steven discuss if the 3 years and thousands of layoffs were worth it and if the massive announcements made by DC this week reflect an attempt to get back on track. Plus, missing Charles Grodin and Steven likes MODOK more than Jon does (so far). [EP228]
2021-05-241h 03Caffeinated Comics on Radio MisfitsCaffeinated Comics – A Celebration of SuperheroesJon speaks at De Paul University! Jon discusses the postponement of the 2020 event and how it didn’t get him off the hook for writing his essay. Plus the audio from his video panel, speaking at UiC in the same week and remembering John Paul Leon. [EP225]
2021-05-0422 minCaffeinated Comics on Radio MisfitsCaffeinated Comics – WandaVision Series Finale9 episodes and it’s all over. Jon, Steven, and Elliott Serrano discuss the predictions that didn’t come true, whether we were satisfied with the ending of “WandaVision” and the plot threads that may or may not be picked up in another movie. Plus, creator’s rights, the future of James Bond and Jon still has COVID. [EP217]
2021-03-081h 00Caffeinated Comics on Radio MisfitsCaffeinated Comics – The MandalectionYeah, we couldn’t just geek talk this week. We had a protracted, crazy election week and Steven and Jon need to put their lib heads together and unpack it. Plus, Mandalorian season 2 is better than season 1, Hasbro kick-starts the ultimate Razor Crest ship, and Timothy Olyphant makes Jon happy. [EP200]
2020-11-091h 01Caffeinated Comics on Radio MisfitsCaffeinated Comics – Remembering Sean ConneryJon’s on his own thinking about the iconic Scottish actor who passed away at the age of 90. Jon discusses the towering legacy of his James Bond, his work against type in “Indiana Jones and the Last Crusade”, and his unforgettable performance in “Time Bandits”, a classic film too many have forgotten. Plus, when to retire, what “Lord of the Rings” would have been if he was cast as Gandalf and the decision of an older actor to be a character actor or an icon. [EP199]
2020-11-0222 minCaffeinated Comics on Radio MisfitsCaffeinated Comics – Remembering Chadwick BosemanThe iconic actor who played Black Panther has passed. Jon and Steven talk about the impact he had on the MCU in a handful of films, his boundless energy for his other roles, and the way he hid stage 3 cancer while portraying the larger than life Marvel hero. Plus, “Bill and Ted Face the Music” is here to add whatever positivity they could to 2020. [EP190]
2020-08-3156 minCaffeinated Comics on Radio MisfitsCaffeinated Comics – The DC BloodbathAT&T slashes 20% of DC Comics’ budget! Industry legends have been laid off! DC Direct is dead! Trades are sidelined! Jon and Steven discuss what this means for the rest of the industry today and what the future of comics looks like, according to Jim Lee. How does Marvel react? Why do people keep thinking Marvel and DC will combine into one company? Plus, World Without a Post Office.
2020-08-1748 minCaffeinated Comics on Radio MisfitsCaffeinated Comics – Spider-Man DayIt’s the 58th Anniversary of Spider-Man first appearance in 1962. Jon and Steven take a while to get to it but cover how the celebration came organically from fans and artists rather than Disney, the need for a light, fun Spidey in dark times and the intolerable wait for his next line of action figures. Plus, is Todd McFarlane the new Neal Adams? [EP186]
2020-08-031h 11Caffeinated Comics on Radio MisfitsCaffeinated Comics – Tomes of NonsenseJon and Steven are getting rid of their long boxes. But will the loss of single issues just mean buying the same stories in omnibus form? Even when the stories are bad? How do the format changes of comics relate to the deluge of new streaming platforms? Plus, why Chris Evans will always be the real Captain America. [EP184]
2020-07-201h 05Caffeinated Comics on Radio MisfitsCaffeinated Comics – Retail in LockdownMike Caplan, the owner of Mr. Waynes Pop Culture Collectibles, is back! Mike tells Jon and Steven what curbside pickup is like in a vintage shop, how social distancing works in a small, local store and how the disruption of the toy supply chain boosts the used market. Plus, the runaway success of Hasbro’s $350 Sentinel kickstarter, beard envy and, is G.I. Joe the new Marvel Legends? [EP183]
2020-07-1359 minCaffeinated Comics on Radio MisfitsCaffeinated Comics – Remembering Joe Sinnot and Joel SchumacherA legendary inker and a controversial director have both passed. Jon and Steven discuss how the pairing of Joe Sinnot with Jack Kirby created the best of the Marvel Age, and how his stamp became the look of the Fantastic Four for decades. Then they look at Joel Schumacher’s legacy and see if the endurance of “The Lost Boys” outshines the shadow of “Batman and Robin”. Plus, Joss Whedon’s trajectory, masks in Queens and Michael Keaton in “The Flash” movie? [EP181]
2020-06-291h 03Caffeinated Comics on Radio MisfitsCaffeinated Comics – JuneteenthJon and Steven are relieved the new holiday have given people a chance to calm down and support one another while gearing up for the debacle in Tulsa. Plus, the genius of Alex Toth, how improv comedy influences Marvel Legends and remembering the many iconic performances of Ian Holm [EP180]
2020-06-2259 minCaffeinated Comics on Radio MisfitsCaffeinated Comics – DC Leaves DiamondIn the midst of an industry shut-down comes an industry shake-up! Jon, Steven and Dani Romero discuss the signs that DC Comics would leave the world’s biggest distributor, how Diamond had adhered to the status quo for decades, and what UCS/Lunar means for comic book store owners. Also, remembering Denny O’Neil who gave us humanism in superheroes while shepherding Batman through his creative peak. [EP179]
2020-06-151h 08Caffeinated Comics on Radio MisfitsCaffeinated Comics – A Troubadour in QuarantineBeer Babe Jess goes on the road! Jess travels to Georgia, South Carolina and Florida to escape her locked down Chicago apartment. Jon and discuss travel etiquette in a pandemic, where to find local breweries available for curbside and patio dining and how to meet new people while being socially distant. [EP178]
2020-06-081h 01Caffeinated Comics on Radio MisfitsCaffeinated Comics – The RiotsThere was nothing else we could talk about. Jon and Steven discuss the overwhelming feeling of ever major city exploding into violence, the forces that left people with no alternative and the inherent selfishness of the American dream. Plus, what out of control crowds in the summer will do to COVID-19 cases. Oh, and some good comics. [EP177]
2020-06-0100 minCaffeinated Comics on Radio MisfitsCaffeinated Comics – The Snyder CutThe #ReleaseTheSnyderCut people are happy today. HBO Max has agreed to premiere the original cut of “Justice League” in 2021. Jon and Steven discuss whether making the movie less like “Avengers” will help, how emboldened fans become when they get what they want and how two different versions of the same film will affect the DC franchise moving forward. Plus, Hasbro takes their traditional SDCC panel online and Jon takes his action figures out of a flooded basement. [EP176]
2020-05-261h 08Caffeinated Comics on Radio MisfitsCaffeinated Comics – Star Trek TNG S2Steven boldly goes to the second season! Jon and Steven discuss the improvements over the first season and the distance it still has to cover to become one of the greatest television shows of all time. Plus, recycled plots from the 70s! Crusher gets fired! Pulaski gets robo racist! And Jon’s basement floods.
2020-05-191h 02Caffeinated Comics on Radio MisfitsCaffeinated Comics – Christopher Lee Dracula moviesThanks to quarantine, we’re all starting new, big, non-essential projects. That’s how Howie Weingarten talked Jon into watching every Dracula movie starring Christopher Lee in one week. Jon and Howie discuss the style Hammer imprinted on all its films, the loose rules around killing vampires and why you should always avoid Hawthorne bushes. Plus, Frankenstein!
2020-05-111h 26Caffeinated Comics on Radio MisfitsCaffeinated Comics – Frikkin SpawnTodd McFarlane raises two million dollars on one figure! Jon and Steven discuss the Image creator’s business acumen in the face of character irrelevance. Plus, DC pushes to open it up while Marvel flattens the curve, Steven survives Star Trek: the Next Generation season 1 as Jon flies through five seasons of Deep Space Nine and how extroverts will be the death of us all.
2020-04-271h 04Caffeinated Comics on Radio MisfitsCaffeinated Comics – Will Print Survive?Diamond has stopped distributing new comic books due to COVID-19. Jon and Steven remotely discuss what this means for comic book stores that were already struggling, whether publishers will turn away from periodicals for graphic novels and if this is the time digital will take the spotlight. Plus, why the upcoming desert of content will bring us a golden age of catalog binging and free YouTube shows. [EP169]
2020-04-061h 02Caffeinated Comics on Radio MisfitsCaffeinated Comics – CoronaviruscastPresenting the first Skype chat between the Caffeinated Comics hosts! Jon and Steven maintain a healthy distance while discussing living with an autoimmune compromised roommate, how the movie studios have reacted and how this will impact production and why Jon has no patience for bored people. Plus, how to finally get Steven into Star Trek. [EP167]
2020-03-231h 18Caffeinated Comics on Radio MisfitsCaffeinated Comics – JoCo Cruise 2020What’s it like to be on a cruise ship during a pandemic? Jon and Bill Monroe find out traveling to the Caribbean with Jonathan Coulton, Liz Phair, Aimee Mann and more. They discuss the low key nature of the trip this year, how supportive the Sea Monkey community treats new members and the genius of Vance Gilbert. Plus, Bill tries stand-up for the first time. [EP166]
2020-03-1550 minCaffeinated Comics on Radio MisfitsCaffeinated Comics – John Champion ReturnsThere’s so much Star Trek now the host of Mission Log is on 3 podcasts this week! Jon and John catch up on the franchise, what Roddenberry’s vision actually means, the double darkness of covering both “Picard” and “Deep Space Nine” at the same time and whether his podcast can ever end. Plus, why millennials don’t care about Mr. Spock.
2020-03-091h 12Caffeinated Comics on Radio MisfitsCaffeinated Comics – C2E2 2020Steven stops by McCormick Place for the biggest convention in the midwest! Jon and Steven discuss the announcements from Jim Lee’s panel, how cosplay shows the temperature of fandom, and whether Jon can expect the coronavirus on the JoCo Cruise. Plus, is the podcast niche enough?
2020-03-0259 minCaffeinated Comics on Radio MisfitsCaffeinated Comics – Toy Fair 2020It’s the most wonderful time of the year! Jon and Steven go through the major action figure announcements and budget accordingly. Has Star wars taken aback seat to Marvel? Is McFarlane relevant? Why does every company need to make Ghostbusters? Plus, Dan DiDio is fired from DC Comics and no one knows why. [EP163]
2020-02-241h 01Caffeinated Comics on Radio MisfitsCaffeinated Comics – Harley Quinn Birds of Preyhttps://archives.radiomisfits.com/Jon watched the best kept secret of the DC cinematic universe and has a lot to say about it. Can Margot Robbie finally nail a Brooklyn accent? How does it pay off or ignore Suicide Squad and Joker? Are the Birds of Prey even important to the plot? Plus, HBO’s Watchmen continues to impress, Hickman’s “X-Men” keeps rolling along and “Picard” becomes an oasis in a world of garbage.
2020-02-171h 02Caffeinated Comics on Radio MisfitsCaffeinated Comics – Oscar NominationsJon and Steven missed “Birds of Prey” (like the rest of America) so they’re taking the time to gear up for the 2020 Academy Awards. Is “Joker” worthy of immortalization? How good is the first 30 minutes of “Marriage Story”? Will they both regret not seeing “Parasite”? All answers you know by now are discussed with great curiosity. [EP161]
2020-02-101h 04Caffeinated Comics on Radio MisfitsCaffeinated Comics – 2020 Catch UpWe’re well into the new year and Jon and Steven are taking a breather from announcements to actually look at things that have been released. Picard! X-Men! Marvel Legends! Knives Out! Plus, the diminishing returns of Amazing Spider-Man.
2020-02-031h 01Caffeinated Comics on Radio MisfitsCaffeinated Comics – Beer Babe JessMeet an Instagram luminary of craft beer! Jess tells Jon and Steven how she started building a community of small business owners and home brewers through social media, how her expertise in digital marketing led to making new connections and how brewing a batch herself changed her appreciation for the craft. Plus, the surprising overlap between stocking a top shelf beer cellar and collecting Silver Age comic books.
2020-01-131h 00Caffeinated Comics on Radio MisfitsCaffeinated Comics – 2019 Wrap UpJon and Steven are done with this year. They try to focus on the positive, like “Avengers:Endgame”. “The Mandalorian” and Jonathan Hickman’s “X-Men”. Plus, how Hollywood can break records and still claim a disappointing year, how streaming will eat into the movie slate and with so much content happening, can anyone even predict 2020?
2019-12-301h 08Caffeinated Comics on Radio MisfitsCaffeinated Comics – Star Wars: The Rise of SkywalkerThe Skywalker saga ends but will Star Wars live forever? In an extra-sized episode, Jon, Steven and Elliott Serrano discuss if it’s worth saying goodbye when there’s more “Mandalorian” coming, the whiplash from “the Last Jedi”, and the Emperor’s long game. Plus, Eddie Murphy returns to Saturday Night Live after 35 years. [EP154]
2019-12-241h 37Caffeinated Comics on Radio MisfitsCaffeinated Comics – Harley Quinn animated seriesThe R-rated pilot is available for free on iTunes! Jon and Steven discuss the casting choices which include new and familiar voices, the evolution of Harley Quinn’s character from “Batman:the Animated Series” to the New 52, and whether the show is worth an entire app subscription. Plus, new “Ghostbusters” and “Wonder Woman” trailers, the CW launches its most ambitious crossover yet and Jon loses 4 pounds in 90 minutes. [EP153]
2019-12-161h 02Caffeinated Comics on Radio MisfitsCaffeinated Comics – No Time to Die trailerDaniel Craig returns for his final James Bond outing. Jon and Steven discuss if the film can get put of the disappointing shadow of “Spectre”. Plus, “Black Widow” takes it down a notch, “Ghostbusters” comes back in 2020, and what Disney+ doesn’t have. [EP152]
2019-12-091h 06Caffeinated Comics on Radio MisfitsCaffeinated Comics – The MandalorianFour episodes in and Jon and Steven can not stop talking about the Disney+ Star Wars series. They discuss how baby Yoda has stolen all the attention from “The Rise of Skywalker”, if the highly publicized supporting cast have been relegated to cameos, and why the “Imagineers” series can inform the corporation’s approach to Lucasfilm and Marvel. Plus, Jon has many, many thoughts on “The Irishman”. [EP151]
2019-12-021h 08Caffeinated Comics on Radio MisfitsCaffeinated Comics – Disney+The biggest development in streaming apps is here! Jon and Steven discuss how Netflix paved the way for Disney to eclipse them, what classic and obscure series they’re rediscovering, and LOTS of Mandalorian talk. Plus, that Jeff Goldblum show is exactly what you think it is. [EP149]
2019-11-191h 09Caffeinated Comics on Radio MisfitsCaffeinated Comics – What We Left BehindThe definitive “Star Trek: Deep Space Nine” documentary is out on digital! Jon and Steven discuss the cult series inside a cult franchise, how it was overlooked for decades until streaming took over, and why it’s the “New Mutants” of Star Trek. Plus, the onslaught of great X-Men figures, counting down to Disney + and yes, “Jojo Rabbit” is even better than you think it is. [EP148]
2019-11-111h 01Caffeinated Comics on Radio MisfitsCaffeinated Comics – Age of ApocalypseHasbro announces a full line of X-Men from the groundbreaking alternate reality! Jon and Steven discuss why the 90’s is still so prevalent for Marvel’s mutants, even while Jonathan Hickman is reinventing the franchise. Plus, action figures are like board games, Spider-Verse and Ant-Man return for sequels and snow on Halloween ruins everything.
2019-11-051h 01Caffeinated Comics on Radio MisfitsCaffeinated Comics – Scorcese Hates SuperheroesCan you like both “Goodfella” and “Guardians of the Galaxy”? Jon, Steven and Kevin Ryan discuss classic filmmakers Martin Scorcese and Francis Ford Coppola commenting on the sea change of cinema and how much weight their voice carries. Plus, a deep dissection of the final “Star Wars: the Rise of Skywalker” trailer and where Hickman is taking the X-Men this week. [EP146]
2019-10-281h 02Caffeinated Comics on Radio MisfitsCaffeinated Comics – Batman CastingA new Catwoman, a new Riddler and a Penguin drops out in Matt Reeves’ new movie. Jon and Steven discuss if the franchise has broken the multiple villain curse, what this new film may owe to Ben Affleck’s aborted version and why the Joker won’t show up. Plus, the death of print, DC’s improving batting average and why you should get good microphones. [EP145]
2019-10-2157 minCaffeinated Comics on Radio MisfitsCaffeinated Comics – CW ContinuityIt’s Crisis on Multiple Series! Jon and Steven discuss the stunt castings, the legacy of DC on television and whether interconnected continuity keeps away a new audience as it caters to existing fans. Also, quitting paper monthly comics, when hardcover graphic novels are worth it, and why it’s hard to binge watch any show made before 1990.
2019-10-151h 07Caffeinated Comics on Radio MisfitsCaffeinated Comics – JokerIs it the greatest movie of the year or the greatest episode of “Gotham?” Jon, Steven and Kevin Ryan discuss the self-contained universe, the real-life mental illness it confronts, the debt the movie owes not only to Martin Scorcese but Heath Ledger and if there’s anyone to root for in the entire film. Plus, what was real and what was in Arthur’s head?
2019-10-081h 13Caffeinated Comics on Radio MisfitsCaffeinated Comics – SMG Podcast Marathon 2019Live with Art Balthazar! Jon and Steven appear at the Blue Box Cafe to discuss George Lucas’ comments on Disney’s “Star Wars” movies with Elliott Serrano. Then legendary DC cartoonist Art Balthazar gets involved and keeps everyone on stage for his podcast, A Famous Cartoonist Says Things with his co host Mike Campobasso It’s a podcast crossover that covers everything from “the Dark Crystal: Age of Resistence” to “Breaking Bad”.
2019-09-301h 35Caffeinated Comics on Radio MisfitsCaffeinated Comics – Batman Day 2019Batman is 80! Jon, Steven and Lisa Brown discuss where Bruce Wayne is now. Can Tom King leave lasting change on the character? Where is the line between intense and two-dimensional? Blue or black? Plus, does Batman need a secret identity?
2019-09-231h 07Caffeinated Comics on Radio MisfitsCaffeinated Comics – IT Chapter TwoWhile Steven sees the most anticipated horror movie of the year, Jon stays home with “Dark Crystal: Age of Resistance” on Netflix. Jon and Steven discuss the blending off Stephen King’s novel’s structure into two films, the odd SPOILERY right turn it takes in the final act, and why the orgy scene should never be shot. Then, Jon discusses how Jim Henson’s heirs took his cryptic and symbolic tone poem and turned it into a 10 episode plot driven series.
2019-09-101h 11Caffeinated Comics on Radio MisfitsCaffeinated Comics – Alex Ross exhibitEP138: Caffeinated Comics invades Libertyville! Jon and Steven visit The Bess Bower Dunn museum and their collection of Alex Ross originals! They discuss Ross’ detailed pencil work, early criticisms and the stuffed dolls he made of Marvel characters. Plus, how comics are pitched, the importance of collaborators and how seeing superheroes as a child never really changes your perception of them.
2019-09-031h 04Caffeinated Comics on Radio MisfitsCaffeinated Comics – D23EP137: Disney makes its own SDCC! Jon and Steven wade through a deluge of announcements, from She-Hulk, Moon Knight and Ms. Marvel to Jeff Goldblum being Jeff Goldblum. Plus, Disney’s hands-off approach to the Muppets and Sony’s hands-off approach to Disney over Spider-Man
2019-08-2656 minCaffeinated Comics on Radio MisfitsCaffeinated Comics – The Obi Wan showAfter cancelling his movie, it’s looking like Ewan McGregor is signing up for an entire Star Wars series! Jon and Steven discuss how CBS streaming “Picard” may have influenced this decision. Plus, the return of “Invader Zim” and why Jon is not on board for “The Boys”.
2019-08-191h 00Caffeinated Comics on Radio MisfitsCaffeinated Comics – Underrated RunsYes, Frank Miller’s “Daredevil” is great. Chris Claremont’s “X-Men” set the benchmark. Stan Lee’s “Amazing Spider-Man” is required reading. But what else? Jon and Steven discuss the great runs of characters that often fly beneath the radar. Why did no one know Paul Dini was writing monthly Batman comics? What did Jack Kirby do to Captain America at the bicentennial? Why isn’t Geoff Johns remembered as a Marvel writer? Plus, 32 new Marvel Legends hit in one day (and that’s not a typo!).
2019-08-1258 minCaffeinated Comics on Radio MisfitsCaffeinated Comics – Endgame Home VideoWhen it comes to “Avengers: Endgame” there’s always more to talk about. Jon and Steven download the movie on iTunes and learn how well it fits with “Avengers: Infinity War”. They study the deleted scenes and audio commentary to learn everything they can about the most popular movie in the world. Plus, Kevin Conroy joins the CW, Muppets are on display in Queens and why Tom King’s Batman pisses some fans off.
2019-08-051h 02Caffeinated Comics on Radio MisfitsCaffeinated Comics – House of XJonathan Hickman reboots the X-Men! Jon and Steven discuss plot vs. world-building, how the writer may alienate new fans, and what it will take to get Marvel’s flagship back to its peak. Plus, Rutger Hauer passes and “Batman: Hush” gets animated.
2019-07-291h 01Caffeinated Comics on Radio MisfitsCaffeinated Comics – SDCC 2019Oh, the announcements! Jon and Steven cover the phase 4 slate of MCU movies and streaming, Jonathan Hickman’s new “X-Men” run, trailers for “Picard” and the “Harley Quinn” animated series and the lack of a new “Batman” creative team. Plus all. The. Figures.
2019-07-221h 00Caffeinated Comics on Radio MisfitsCaffeinated Comics – Harrison Ford’s BirthdayEP131: The icon turns 77! Jon and Steven discuss how the added a depth to the characters of Han Solo and Indiana Jones other action stars couldn’t match. Plus, the passing of Rip Torn, deep fakes and why there’s no limit to what Jon will send on action figures.
2019-07-151h 10Caffeinated Comics on Radio MisfitsCaffeinated Comics – Spider-Man:Far From HomeEP130: Marvel’s flagship character closes out the MCU Phase 3! Jon, Steven and Owen O’Riordan discuss the self-contained story, how to make Mysterio a complex and formidable character, the evolution of MJ and That. Mid. Credits. Scene. Also, was that really the black costume?
2019-07-081h 03Caffeinated Comics on Radio MisfitsCaffeinated Comics – Endgame ExtraEP129: While Jon and Steven impatiently wait for “Spider-Man: Far From Home” Marvel rereleases “Avengers; Endgame” with additional footage! Is it worth another trip to the theater? Plus, why Jack Kirby kept recreating gods, comic fans still hate “Teen Titans Go” and J.J. Abrams writes Spider-Man in between Star Wars.
2019-07-011h 04Caffeinated Comics on Radio MisfitsCaffeinated Comics – Batman 1989EP128: The Tim Burton adaptation of DC Comics flagship character turns 30! Steven, Lisa Brown and David Brown see it on the big screen for the first time at a Fathom event while Jon and Trafton Crandall recall how the film shaped the summer of ’89. Plus, how Jack Nicholson’s Joker measures up to Heath Ledger, why the most expensive movie made didn’t have enough budget for extras and how the unique visuals cover a multitude of storytelling sins.
2019-06-241h 10Caffeinated Comics on Radio MisfitsCaffeinated Comics – Tom King’s CareerThe writer of “Batman” leaves “Batman”! Jon and Steven discuss what factored in Tom King’s dismissal from the flagship title, how “Batman/Catwoman” commits to his 100 issue story and why he’s writing a “New Gods” movie. Plus, is “Amazing Spider-Man” the most consistent title in comics history
2019-06-031h 02Caffeinated Comics on Radio MisfitsCaffeinated Comics – Game of Thrones Wrap UpDisappointment sits on the Iron Throne. Jon, Steven, David Brown and Renee Clarke discuss the controversial final season, how George R.R. Martin’s future books could possibly compete and the value in terrified screams. Plus, now that it’s over, is it worth starting?
2019-05-281h 04Caffeinated Comics on Radio MisfitsCaffeinated Comics – Marvel Comics 1000EP122: Marvel announces the biggest creative team on a single comic ever! Jon and Steven discuss how the anniversary book will balance more than 80 writers and artists, how DC set the stage with Action and Detective Comics 1000, and if this issue will affect continuity. Plus, the new “Spider-Man: Far From Home” trailer spoils “Avengers: Endgame”.
2019-05-131h 05Caffeinated Comics on Radio MisfitsCaffeinated Comics – PositivityIn the afterglow of “Avengers: Endgame”, Jon and Steven seem to like everything, from “Free Comic Book Day” launching event books to “May the Fourth” taking a sentimental turn honoring the passing of Peter Mayhew. Plus, Jon meets Dana Gould for the first time since his appearance on the podcast.
2019-05-0655 minCaffeinated Comics on Radio MisfitsCaffeinated Comics – Avengers: Endgame**SPOILERS** Jon, Steven, Lisa Brown, Tina Canfield and Joe Pakovits go deep into the SPOILERS of the most SPOILERIFIC Marvel movie ever made. Plot points, character resolutions, tone and crying will all be discussed. SPOILERS!
2019-04-291h 12Caffeinated Comics on Radio MisfitsCaffeinated Comics – Star Wars Celebration 2Jon and Steven can’t stop the FOMO so Elliott Serrano and Marco Garcia stop by to tell them what it was like. How different was the show from C2E2 which was held in the sam place by the same people? How hard was it to get into those panels? And can Elliott ever forgive “Rogue One”?
2019-04-251h 03Caffeinated Comics on Radio MisfitsCaffeinated Comics – Star Wars CelebrationThe Force is strong in Chicago! Jon and Steven discuss the FOMO of skipping the show one month after C2E2, the live streaming p – anel and trailer for Episode IX and the shift to Disney+ later in the year. Plus, the new “Hellboy” movie is very, very bad.
2019-04-151h 03Caffeinated Comics on Radio MisfitsCaffeinated Comics – Shazam!DC changes direction once again! Jon, Steven, Dani Romero and Owen O’Riordan talk their surprised reactions to a new tone, how to introduce a character in film after multiple comic reboots and why it was a New Line film, not Warner Bros. Plus, the many, many lawsuits of Captain Marvel.
2019-04-081h 07Caffeinated Comics on Radio MisfitsCaffeinated Comics – Batman 80th AnniversaryBatman hits octogenarian status as his first comic hits a mellennium. Jon and Steven discuss the Dark Knight’s current state with Tom King’s intrsopective style on the comic, “Gotham” ending and no release date for the next movie. Plus, they return from C2E2 and report from one panel each.
2019-04-011h 06Caffeinated Comics on Radio MisfitsCaffeinated Comics – Continuity CrisisWhile Jon and Steven prepare for C2E2, they reflect on comic history. Are comics fictional biographies of heroes or simply ways for different creators to tell their own stories? Plus, the long long, long, unintentional origin of Cable!
2019-03-251h 05Caffeinated Comics on Radio MisfitsCaffeinated Comics – Mutant MassacreAfter watching the new “X-Men: Dark Phoenix” trailer, Jon and Steven discuss the ending of the FOX run of films. Is this the final installment? What happened to “New Mutants”? And does anything in this movie matter before a Disney reboot? Plus, hate for the new “Hellboy”.
2019-03-1857 minCaffeinated Comics on Radio MisfitsCaffeinated Comics – Captain MarvelThe dream of the 90s is alive in the MCU! Jon, Steven, Lisa Brown, Tina Canfield, and David Brown discuss whether two directors diluted the vision of the story, spotting Kelly Sue DeConnick in a crowd, and whose side to take in a Kree/Skrull war. Plus, is Carol Danvers a gay rights activist
2019-03-111h 01Caffeinated Comics on Radio MisfitsCaffeinated Comics – Dan GvozdenThe host of “Amazing Spider-Talk” is here! Dan and Jon discuss their entry points to the comics, how long it takes to collect every issue, the worst runs ever and why 2018 was the most popular year for Spidey yet. Plus, Hobgoblin
2019-03-041h 04Caffeinated Comics on Radio MisfitsCaffeinated Comics – Writing Comics in the 90’sDani Romero invites Jon to her livestream! In the complete audio of the interview, Jon discusses how he got into writing comics in college, what he learned from the crash in the 90s and how it helped him prepare for a career in advertising, screen writing and stand-up comedy. Plus, why you should never start a story on page 1.
2019-01-1550 minCaffeinated Comics on Radio MisfitsCaffeinated Comics – Avengers 4 TrailerThe “Avengers: Endgame” trailer hits right on the heels of the new “Captain Marvel” trailer! And the new “Spider-Man:Far From Home” trailer (kinda). Jon and Steven discuss whether tone is more important than plot, why Captain Marvel is Green Lantern and why they never want to see a comics adaptation again. Plus, Jon sees “Spider-Man:Into the Spider Verse” but Steven won’t let him talk about it until the next episode.
2018-12-101h 04Caffeinated Comics on Radio MisfitsCaffeinated Comics – Teen Titans Go to the MoviesThe Cartoon Network hit is now a feature film! Jon, Steven and Ben Clarke discuss the evolution of the series from the earlier action focused effort, the sly humor that both knows and rejects comic book continuity and why this iteration is so controversial for some fans. Plus, we lose Ben to Fortnite.
2018-07-301h 00Caffeinated Comics on Radio MisfitsCaffeinated Comics – Jurassic World:Fallen KingdomThe second film from the Jurassic Park reboot is out but Jon hasn’t seen it. Instead, he’s been lost in PlayStation VIrtual Reality and gives Steven a tour of Batman Arkham VR. Steven and Davis Miller discuss the film’s shift in tone from the last entry and how it compares to other recent monster movies. Plus, Jon is sort of almost in the new Spectacular Spider-Man annual.
2018-06-251h 01Caffeinated Comics on Radio MisfitsCaffeinated Comics – UICcastJon gives a guest lecture! Wally Podrazik invites Jon to speak to his media class on advertising, comics and podcasting. From the right microphones to when you’ll see Deadpool in the MCU, Jon talks to Bhavini Nayi, Mark Plese,Michelle Campos
Tony Mazzarri and Jaelyn Vickers before they start their own careers in media.
2018-05-0858 minCaffeinated Comics on Radio MisfitsCaffeinated Comics – JoCo CruisecastJon’s out to sea! Bill Monroe takes Jon for his first geek cruise to Mexico and they record several check-in podcasts in between events. Panels! Performances! Karaoke! Tequila! Plus, what it’s like to live in the grey area between convention and summer camp and how to be neighborly to Will Wheaton, Maria Bamford, Matt Fraction, Jonathan Coulton and more.
2018-03-1352 minCaffeinated Comics on Radio MisfitsCaffeinated Comics – CatchingupcastJon gets back from Disney World to a stack of comics in his pull list. Steven talks the validity of DC’s “Doomsday Clock” while Jon questions its release before the “Metal” event is complete. Then, Jon relates how Netflix’s “Punisher” washes the taste of “Iron Fist” and “Defenders” out of your brain. Plus, everyone’s still a creep.
2017-12-111h 06Caffeinated Comics on Radio MisfitsCaffeinated Comics – 13th DoctorcastThe first female Doctor Who is confirmed! Jon meets with the Who37 podcast host JB Anderton to talk Jodie Whittaker’s resume, the end of Peter Capaldi’s tenure and Chris Chibnall’s approach as a show runner. Also, Jon’s aborted plans to talk “War of the Planet of the Apes”.
2017-07-171h 02Caffeinated Comics on Radio MisfitsCaffeinated Comics – Rick and MortycastSeason 3 is finally coming! Jon and Steven discuss the long wait between seasons, the dark and detailed storytelling and the connection to its sunnier cousin, “Gravity Falls”. Also, why “Preacher” season 2 is the show Jon hoped for in Season 1
2017-07-031h 02Caffeinated Comics on Radio MisfitsCaffeinated Comics – Remembering Berni WrightsonA comics legend has passed. Jon and and Steven talk about the impact Berni made to both horror and superheroes, his influence on modern artists and how he stayed relevant through the decades. Plus, Jon tells a story about how his own comics work in the ’90’s led to an unlikely friendship with the master.
2017-03-271h 04Caffeinated Comics on Radio MisfitsCaffeinated Comics – Battle of the Network SuperheroescastWith “Legion” and “Powerless” premiering this week, there are a LOT of comic book series on networks right now. Jon and Steven discuss whether Marvel’s focus on “Agents of SHIELD” places it behind DC’s interconnected “Flash”, “Arrow”, “Legends of Tomorrow” and”Supergirl” or whether the commitment of four hours a week keeps many DC’s fan away. Plus the standalone “Gotham”, AMC’s “Preacher” and whether “The Walking Dead” ever needed a spin-off. Plus, Jon’s stunned by “The Good Place”!
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