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Collecting Issues
collectingissues
90 episodes
1 week ago

Welcome to Collecting Issues, the monthly comic book club podcast! Each month, we choose a single graphic novel and invite you, our community, to read along with us. We want you to share your thoughts, theories, and favourite moments on our Discord, and join the conversation.

At the end of each month, we record an episode full of comic-loving fun, discussing the story, art, and everything in between.

Whether you're a seasoned collector or new to comics, Collecting Issues is the perfect place to explore great reads and connect with fellow fans. Let's celebrate the world of comics together


Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

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All content for Collecting Issues is the property of collectingissues and is served directly from their servers with no modification, redirects, or rehosting. The podcast is not affiliated with or endorsed by Podjoint in any way.

Welcome to Collecting Issues, the monthly comic book club podcast! Each month, we choose a single graphic novel and invite you, our community, to read along with us. We want you to share your thoughts, theories, and favourite moments on our Discord, and join the conversation.

At the end of each month, we record an episode full of comic-loving fun, discussing the story, art, and everything in between.

Whether you're a seasoned collector or new to comics, Collecting Issues is the perfect place to explore great reads and connect with fellow fans. Let's celebrate the world of comics together


Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

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Episodes (20/90)
Collecting Issues
Come Find Me: An Autumnal Offering (2024) Curated by Becky Cloonan

Happy Halloween, listeners! This month on Collecting Issues, the monthly comic book book club, Michael and Benjamin skirt the rules to cover an anthology: Come Find Me: An Autumnal Offering.

This 2024 one-shot is published by the new, creator-owned DSTLRY Comics. It's an... interesting business model of limited digital runs and resellable digital rights. (Wait, did we just buy an NFT? Is this the blockchain?)

Curated by horror maestro Becky Cloonan, Come Find Me is a collection of six chilling mini-stories steeped in folk and medieval horror. Join us as we apply "useful frameworks" (much to Michael's disgust) to break down every tale in this unnerving collection from a lineup of incredible female and non-binary creators.

We discuss:

  • "Devil's Trill" (Hamlet Machine): A sexy, weird, and wordless Faustian pact that sets a spectacular gothic tone.
  • "Portorium" (Becky Cloonan): A classic tale of grave robbery, Roman gods (hello, Orcus), and why you should never steal from the dead.
  • "Down by the Water" (Molly Mendoza): A beautiful, abstract, and unsettling story of gossip, grief, and... frog spawn?
  • "Coal &Clover" (Vanessa R. Del Rey): A straightforward folk horror revenge story set in a brutal American company town. Don't make deals with the Fae!
  • "La Chéta" (Celine Loup): The one that left us scratching our heads. A sketchy, Alpine tale of a sexy widow and... well, we're still not sure.
  • "Warmth of the Hunt" (E.M. Carroll): An absolute banger to finish the anthology. A stunning, timeless depiction of the Wild Hunt with tattoo-worthy art.

Which stories gave us "oozing dread" and which one was less fright and more...?

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Next Comic:

Local Man, a deconstruction of the Big Guns and Pouch era of 90's comics by Tim Seeley and Tony Fleecs


Time Stamps:

00:00 Introduction to 'Come Find Me'

01:33 Overview of DSTLRY Comics

04:01 Exploring the Anthology's Themes

04:53 Spotlight on Becky Cloonan

09:03 Diving into 'Devil's Trill'

21:32 Analysis of 'Portorium'

32:04 Molly Mendoza's 'Down by the Water'

36:20 Unraveling the Mystery of the Drowned Lover

38:33 The Grim Trysts and Henry's Dark Secrets

39:54 The Frog Spawn Mystery and Henry's Duality

44:17 Medieval Horror and the Tale of Coal & Clover

44:37 The Dark Art of Vanessa Del Ray

48:57 The Folkloric Influence in Horror Comics

01:04:17 The Wild Hunt and the Art of EM Carroll

01:10:32 Final Thoughts and Upcoming Reads


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1 week ago
1 hour 14 minutes 55 seconds

Collecting Issues
Zatanna: Bring Down The House (2025) by Mariko Tamaki & Javier Rodríguez

Welcome back to Collecting Issues, the comic book book club where this month we're pulling a rabbit out of a hat and diving into Zatanna: Bring Down the House! Join us as we review issues #1-5 of the 2025 DC Black Label series by the incredible team of Mariko Tamaki, Javier Rodriguez, and Hassan Otsmane-Elhaou.


Is this spooky, Halloween-adjacent tale a true horror comic or more "spider decoration spooky"? We break down this visually stunning "Year One" style origin story for DC's premier magician. From its unique narrative approach to its mastery of the female gaze, we explore how this comic redefines Zatanna for a new generation. Plus, we have to talk about that impossibly clean, muscular, and croissant-eating John Constantine.

Tune in for a breezy, fun, and pop-art-infused discussion that's part comic review, part art appreciation, and part therapy session for our hosts' confused sexualities.


In This Episode, We Discuss:

  • The Art of Magic: A deep dive into Javier Rodriguez's spectacular, psychedelic, and masterful visuals. We explore his innovative panel layouts, mastery of colour (including that CMYK flashback style!), and pin-up aesthetic.
  • A Millennial Magician: How Mariko Tamaki's writing transforms Zatanna into a relatable millennial hero grappling with imposter syndrome, parental legacy, and finding her own power.
  • Narrative Tropes & Themes: We tackle the "Chosen One" narrative, the mystery of Zatara's dark past, and whether the story holds up to the incredible artwork.
  • For the Female Gaze?: An exploration of how the comic flips the script on Zatanna's traditionally fetishised character design, creating a powerful and sexy story from a distinctly female perspective.
  • That Constantine Cameo: Was John Constantine's appearance necessary, or did he just show up to ruin a perfectly good lesbian romance? We have thoughts.


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Next Comic:

Get ready for Spooktober! We're reading "Come Find Me," an all-female descent into folk horror curated by Becky Cloonan, from the new publisher DSTLLRY.


Time Stamps:

00:00 Introduction to Collecting Issues

00:51 Halloween Vibes and Spooky Stories

02:46 Zatanna's Origin and Elevator Pitch

06:51 The Creative Team Behind Zatanna

08:38 Art and Visuals of Zatanna

17:38 Narrative Tropes and Themes

32:27 Zatara's Journey and Characterisation

33:08 Millennial Themes and Imposter Syndrome

33:42 Favourite Sequences and Dialogue

35:20 Zatanna's Struggles and Power Fantasy

37:49 The Phantom Stranger and Magic Councils

42:31 Art Style and Visual Storytelling

51:04 Magic Battles and Demon Designs

58:38 Final Thoughts and Recommendations


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2 weeks ago
1 hour 3 minutes 26 seconds

Collecting Issues
20th Century Men (2023) by Deniz Camp and Stipan Morian

This week on Collecting Issues, we're diving headfirst into the dense, brutal, and brilliant world of 20th Century Men, the six-issue epic from Deniz Camp, Stipan Morian, and Image Comics. It’s an alternate history where the Cold War got much, much hotter, fought with super-soldiers, giant mechs, and broken ideals in the mountains of Afghanistan.

WARNING: This is a full-spoiler discussion! We highly recommend you read 20th Century Men #1-6 before listening. Go on, get out of here! Scram! Taste the wilderness... and then come back for the listens.

Join us as we unpack this "impenetrable but so worth it" modern classic. We dissect Deniz Camp’s complex, non-linear narrative that jumps through time and perspectives, comparing his style to legends like Alan Moore, Warren Ellis, and Grant Morrison. We also explore Stipan Morian's stunningly varied—and sometimes jarring—artwork, from Frank Frazetta-esque battle scenes to surreal, Bill Plympton-inspired visuals.

Is this the best comic of 2025? Is it a spiritual successor to Watchmen? And after all the propaganda, war crimes, and failed utopias, we ask the eternal question: War, huh? What is it good for?

Tune in to hear our thoughts on:

  • The Unholy Trinity: A deep dive into the core characters: the crumbling Soviet ideal of The Iron Star, the brutal American imperialism of President Goode, and the human cost embodied by Azra.
  • Artistic Chaos: Why Stipan Morian's shifting art styles are both the comic's greatest strength and its most challenging feature.
  • Deconstructing History: How the comic uses superheroes to explore the real-world horrors and myth-making of the Soviet-Afghan War.
  • Legendary Influences: We discuss the heavy shades of Planetary, The Authority, and Watchmen that run through this series.
  • The Best and Worst of Humanity: From the terrifying super-soldier Six Bill to the tragic journalist Kyril, we break down the unforgettable supporting cast.

If you love politically charged, artistically ambitious comics that challenge you at every turn, this is an episode you can't afford to miss.


Time Stamps:


00:00 Introduction to 20th Century Men

00:49 Comic Book Spoilers Ahead!

02:46 The Complexity of War in Comics

12:07 Art and Storytelling in 20th Century Men

16:32 Character Analysis: Heroes and Anti-Heroes

27:37 The Symbolism of the Collected Man

33:56 Side Stories and Paradise

34:10 Azra's Practical Paradise

34:56 John Rambo's Disruption

35:04 Thomas Goode's American Supremacy

36:09 Time Jumps and Narrative Techniques

39:13 Art and Visuals in Comics

43:15 Character Perspectives and Artistic Styles

50:54 The Human Toll of War

55:41 Modern Political Crises and Myth Making

01:07:54 Spooky Season Recommendations


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1 month ago
1 hour 10 minutes 27 seconds

Collecting Issues
Do A Powerbomb! by Daniel Warren Johnson and Mike Spicer

This week on Collecting Issues, we step into the ring for Do a Powerbomb! (issues #1-7), the 2023 masterpiece from Daniel Warren Johnson and Mike Spicer for Image Comics. Get ready for a cosmic slobberknocker that's one part The Wrestler, one part Dragon Ball Z, and all parts heartbreaking, kinetic action.

Join us as we continue our Daniel Warren Johnson odyssey and explore why he's one of the most exciting creators in comics today. We discuss the series' surprising emotional core, a journey of grief and family set against the backdrop of an interdimensional wrestling tournament. We'll break down the concept of kayfabe, the incredible splash pages, the shocking twists, and why this comic is a true love letter to pro wrestling and its fans.

MAJOR SPOILER WARNING! We cover the entire story from the first bell to the final, emotional finish. We highly recommend reading the comic before listening.

In this episode, we discuss:

  • The unique blend of high-octane action and devastating emotional stakes.
  • How Daniel Warren Johnson's kinetic art and page layouts capture the motion of wrestling like never before.
  • The themes of family, loss, and what it means to "lick the mats for the fans."
  • The shocking character reveals, the incredible tournament matchups, and the absolutely wild ending where our heroes wrestle God.


Time Stamps:


00:00 Introduction to 'Do a Power Bomb'

00:44 Comic Book Education and Daniel Warren Johnson

01:21 Wrestling and Comic Book Crossovers

02:20 Plot Overview and Themes

05:08 Spoilers and Wrestling Terminology

07:13 Art and Visuals in 'Do a Power Bomb'

10:04 Daniel Warren Johnson's Wrestling Journey

13:23 Emotional Depth and Character Arcs

20:51 Wrestling Tropes and Realism

32:04 The Big Twist and Its Impact

35:44 The Evolution of Wrestling: From Extreme to PG Era

36:45 The Art of Wrestling: Capturing Kinetic Moments

40:05 Iconic Wrestling Photography: Geoff Winningham's Legacy

43:12 Wrestling's Emotional and Physical Toll

48:23 The Cosmic Scale of Wrestling: Wrestling God

01:04:26 Final Thoughts and Upcoming Episodes


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1 month ago
1 hour 6 minutes 56 seconds

Collecting Issues
Kingdom Come (1996) by Mark Waid and Alex Ross

his week on Collecting Issues, we're opening the archives to bring you our classic deep dive into Kingdom Come, the legendary 1996 DC Elseworlds series by Mark Waid and Alex Ross. Originally recorded in March 2021, this episode is as relevant as ever.

Join Mick and Ben as they explore how Kingdom Come served as a powerful critique of the '90s comic book "dark age"—an era defined by pouches, excessive violence, and gritty anti-heroes like Cable and Deadpool. We dissect the clash between a new, reckless generation of superhumans, led by the aggressive Magog, and the return of DC's classic icons like Superman, Batman, and Wonder Woman, who come out of retirement to restore order and meaning to the word "hero."

In This Episode, We Discuss:

  • The Twilight of the Hero: What was happening in '90s comics that prompted Waid and Ross to create Kingdom Come?
  • The Art of Gods: An analysis of Alex Ross's iconic, painted art style. Is it timeless iconography, or has its realism dated?
  • Clash of the Titans: We break down some of the most memorable moments, including the legendary battle between a world-weary Superman and a brainwashed Shazam (Captain Marvel).
  • A Controversial Take: Was Wonder Woman done dirty? We examine her characterisation as a ruthless warmonger and the villain of the piece.
  • Enduring Legacy: How Kingdom Come drew inspiration from stories like Watchmen and Squadron Supreme and went on to influence comics like Civil War and video games like Injustice.


Time Stamps:


00:00 Introduction to the Episode

00:43 Overview of Kingdom Come

02:17 The Dark Ages of 90s Comics

05:08 Alex Ross and the Realistic Consequences of Superheroes

05:59 The Distinction Between Marvel and DC

07:03 Norman McKay and the Framing Narrative

09:16 The Twilight of the Classic Heroes

09:53 The Rise of the New Anti-Heroes

15:17 The Big Superhero Showdown

19:16 The Aftermath and Conclusion

20:38 Nonstop Motion: The Hero's Relentless Journey

21:19 Wonder Woman's Controversial Portrayal

24:40 The Art of Alex Ross

28:48 Influences and Comparisons


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2 months ago
37 minutes 41 seconds

Collecting Issues
Beta Ray Bill: Argent Star (2021) by Daniel Warren Johnson & Mike Spicer

In this episode of Collecting Issues, we blast off into Marvel’s cosmic corners to discuss Beta Ray Bill: Argent Star – Collecting issues #1–5 of Daniel Warren Johnson and Mike Spicer’s 2021 miniseries. This listener-recommended pick follows fan-favourite, horse-faced hero Beta Ray Bill on a heavy-metal space odyssey of broken hammers, busted pride, and one very big sword.

We cover it all:

  • How Argent Star fits into Marvel continuity after Thor: Prey.
  • Wrestling moves in space (yes, suplexes included).
  • The tragic humour of Bill’s journey and refusal to grow.
  • Scuttlebutt’s role as both sentient starship and scene-stealer.
  • The gorgeous kinetic art style of Daniel Warren Johnson & Mike Spicer – and its heavy-metal album cover vibes.

Is this the most metal Marvel comic ever? Does Bill ever truly find himself? And why is Argent Star the perfect example of a “quest for all the wrong reasons”?

Whether you’re a Thor comics veteran, a Daniel Warren Johnson fan, or new to Marvel’s stranger side, this spoiler-filled review is your ticket to one of the most unique cosmic adventures in recent comics.


The Thor Prey Episode


Time Stamps:


00:00 Introduction to Beta Ray Bill: Argent Star

00:21 Comic Book Education and Podcast Dynamics

01:02 Beta Ray Bill's Space Odyssey

02:42 Listener Recommendations and Social Media Shoutouts

04:45 Beta Ray Bill's Struggles and Motivations

10:54 The Hero's Journey and Weapon Quest

17:27 Scuttlebutt and Beta Ray Bill's Transformation

23:37 The Transformation of Flat Face Bill

24:01 Bar Encounters and Alien Reactions

25:08 Artistic Impressions and Comparisons

29:10 Wrestling Moves and Comic Influences

31:21 Exploring the Nine Realms

33:42 Character Designs and Inspirations

35:28 Scuttlebutt and Heavy Metal Imagery

42:47 Final Showdown and Reflections


Follow the Podcast:

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Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

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3 months ago
49 minutes 4 seconds

Collecting Issues
The One Hand and the Six Fingers by Ram V, Dan Watters, Laurence Campbell and Sumit Kumar

This week on Collecting Issues, we’re talking about The One Hand and The Six Fingers—two five-issue series from Image Comics (2024) by Ram V, Dan Watters, Laurence Campbell, Sumit Kumar, Lee Loughridge, and Tom Muller.

Set in the gritty, retro-future city of Neo Novena, these stories unfold from two perspectives: a weary detective facing a familiar case on the eve of retirement, and a brilliant student who wakes up with memories of a murder. What starts as a ritual killing slowly unspools into something much stranger—where nothing is real, everything loops, and the world might just be a cage.

We’re talking:

  • Murder, glyphs, and glitching cogs
  • Noir tropes used with purpose—not irony
  • Robots doing people jobs, people thinking like machines
  • How these two comics were written in conversation, not collaboration
  • The big existential ending (and why it works)

If you like Blade Runner, The Matrix, Memento, or Dark City, this one’s worth your time. But seriously—read the comics before listening. It’s impossible to talk about them properly without giving things away.


Time Stamps:

00:00 Introduction to 'The One Hand and the Six Fingers'

01:13 Spoiler Alert: Read Before Listening

01:30 Engaging with the Audience

04:22 Plot Overview: The Future and Parallel Stories

05:00 Detective Ari Nasser's Last Case

05:49 Johannes Vale's Mysterious Journey

07:04 Creative Teams and Artistic Styles

08:08 The Noir Aesthetic and Setting

10:09 The Mystery Deepens

30:54 Existential Revelations and The Matrix

38:14 Literary Influences and Themes

40:01 Post-Capitalist Themes and Inspirations

40:42 Philosophy Bites and Post-Work Societies

42:17 The Sunset Limited and Philosophical Debates

43:05 Comic Book Collaboration and Glyph System

47:27 Art and Visuals in the Comic

59:20 Character Analysis and Stereotypes

01:04:18 Final Thoughts and Upcoming Reads


Follow the Podcast:

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Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

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3 months ago
1 hour 14 minutes 3 seconds

Collecting Issues
Thor: Prey by Donny Cates, Nic Klein & Matthew Wilson

In this episode of Collecting Issues, we dive headfirst into Thor: Prey, collecting issues #7–14 of Donny Cates’ 2020 run with art by Nic Klein, colours by Matthew Wilson, and covers by Olivier Coipel. This mythic, messy, and often horrifying arc explores what happens when the forgotten alter ego, Donald Blake, returns—with a scalpel and a grudge.

We break down:

  • How Thor: Prey explores the consequences of playing God
  • The madness of Donald Blake and his eerie transformation
  • The best-ever comic book appearance of Throg, Frog of Thunder
  • Mythology, body horror, and the absurd brilliance of modern Thor comics
  • Nic Klein’s stunning panel work and Matthew Wilson’s dimensional colour artistry

Plus, we unpack why Thor might be the most unfixably broken character in comics—and why that makes him so damn fun.

Whether you’re here for frogs with hammers, cosmic serial killers, or simply to ask “Where the hell is Donald Blake?”, you’re in the right place.


00:00 Introduction to Thor Prey

02:13 Creative Team and Art Style

04:29 Publication Context and Thor's Journey

07:10 Thor's Identity and Worthiness

08:26 Donald Blake's Return

10:01 Thor's Legacy and Influence

26:02 Monthly Comics and Storytelling

33:31 The Power of Throg

34:06 Throg's Epic Battle

37:24 Donald Blake's Transformation

40:32 Norse Mythology in Comics

45:56 The Madness of Donald Blake

53:35 Art and Color in Comics

58:27 Final Thoughts and Wrap-Up


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5 months ago
1 hour 4 minutes 37 seconds

Collecting Issues
Eight Billion Genies by Charles Soule and Ryan Browne

In this episode of Collecting Issues, Michael and Benjamin break down 8 Billion Genies, the complete 8-issue limited series from Image Comics by Charles Soule and Ryan Browne. What if every person on Earth was suddenly given a genie and one wish? This high-concept comic explores the global and personal chaos that follows—and we’re diving into all of it.

From the explosive first eight seconds to the profound implications of the final wish, this episode explores themes of desire, power, world-building, and the consequences of getting exactly what you want. The hosts compare it to works by Robert Kirkman and Alan Moore, discuss the structure and visual style of the comic, and reflect on how this series delivers big ideas in a tightly-paced, character-driven format.

Topics include:

  • The wish-making mechanic and its implications
  • Ryan Browne’s distinctive art and design of the genies
  • The storytelling technique of exponential time jumps
  • Cultural commentary, character arcs, and final twists

Perfect for fans of speculative fiction, creator-owned comics, and smart sci-fi storytelling, this episode offers a thoughtful (and often hilarious) deep dive into one of Image Comics’ most creative modern titles.


Time Stamps:


00:00 Introduction to 8 Billion Genies

01:28 Premise of 8 Billion Genies

01:51 Comparisons and Commentary

02:50 Podcast Promotion and Support

05:14 Genies and Their Personalities

09:05 Creators and Their Works

13:08 World Building and Rules

30:26 Character Arcs and Tragedies

38:21 The Dougland People and Human Cycles

39:00 The Wish-Making Mechanic

40:13 The Eternal Witness and World Building

42:13 The Zhiang Family Arc

44:42 Daisy's Development and Character Arcs

47:40 Themes of Desire and Control

59:59 The Final Wish and Conclusion


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6 months ago
1 hour 13 minutes 33 seconds

Collecting Issues
Kraven's Last Hunt - An Archive Episode

Join the Discord and read along


In this very first From the Archives episode of Collecting Issues, we go back to where it all began with our 2022 discussion of Kraven’s Last Hunt, the seminal Spider-Man story by J.M. DeMatteis and Mike Zeck. Originally published across The Amazing Spider-Man, Spectacular Spider-Man, and Web of Spider-Man in 1987, this dark, introspective arc sees Kraven the Hunter bury Spider-Man alive, assume his identity, and face off against the terrifying sewer-dweller Vermin.


We look at the story’s gothic almost Russian literature-esque tone, its place in the evolution of superhero comics, and its heavy literary and psychological themes—including a breakdown of its Freudian structure, Blakean symbolism, and bleak commentary on identity and mortality. Plus, we revisit how this tale reshaped Kraven as a complex villain—and how its impact still echoes today.

Find out as we awkwardly stumble through one of Marvel’s most unforgettable arcs—with all the chaotic podcast energy of our earliest recordings.

Topics include:

  • Fearful symmetry and William Blake’s “The Tyger”
  • The evolution of Kraven the Hunter
  • 1980s New York and its influence on comic storytelling
  • The black suit and its darker legacy
  • Inner monologues galore
  • Cheek touching, grave digging, and sewer monsters


00:00 Introduction and Overview

03:56 Correcting the Record: Spider-Man Series Clarification

04:22 The Unique Structure of Kraven's Last Hunt

06:56 Reading Experience and Graphic Novel Format

08:03 1980s Vibes and Comparisons to Batman

11:46 Freudian Psychology in Spider-Man

15:29 The Shocking Suicide in Comics

16:36 Kraven's Return and Downgrade

22:30 Kraven's Last Hunt: Themes and Inspirations



April's Comic Book Club Pick: Eight Billion Genies by Charles Soule and Ryan Browne!


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6 months ago
25 minutes 19 seconds

Collecting Issues
Daredevil Born Again

Welcome back to Collecting Issues – the comic book book club podcast – and our first episode of the year (even if it is March, don’t @ us). This month, we’re diving deep into one of the most iconic and influential superhero stories of all time: Daredevil: Born Again – collecting issues #227 to #233 from the 1986 Daredevil run, written by Frank Miller and drawn by David Mazzucchelli.

In this extended breakdown, we take a long, winding look at the dismantling and resurrection of Matt Murdock, the defining portrayal of the Kingpin as a true menace, and the raw, uncompromising misery that Miller lathers onto every page. From gritty noir influences to intense Catholic imagery (and a nun who may or may not be Matt’s mammy), we discuss the themes, legacy, and visuals of this masterwork – all while occasionally slandering Foggy Nelson and wondering what the hell Nuke is doing here.

We also cover:

  • The real golden age of Daredevil (hint: not the 1930s)
  • Karen Page’s tragic arc and women in 1980s comics
  • The influence of Miller’s crime storytelling and cinematic layouts
  • A very sweaty Kingpin in Speedos beating up six lads
  • What happens when a Daredevil comic becomes a Captain America comic
  • Shared universe highs and lows
  • And why Frank Miller definitely, absolutely, maybe just hates joy

Plus, we ask the big questions: Did Miller create the heavy render era or just ride the wave? Is this still the definitive Daredevil story? And why won’t Foggy just stop being the worst?

This is a bumper episode, so get comfy, roll your eyes at how miserable it all is, and join us for one of the bleakest but most brilliant stories in superhero history.

If you’ve got thoughts on Born Again or just want to shout at us for our hot takes, join the Collecting Issues Discord (link below) and let us know. Don’t forget to subscribe, rate, and share – and stay tuned for next month’s pick: Eight Billion Genies by Charles Soule and Ryan Browne!


00:00 Introduction to Collecting Issues

00:38 Podcast Banter and Updates

00:56 Comic Book Discussions and Recommendations

03:34 Introduction to Daredevil: Born Again

04:35 Frank Miller's Influence on Daredevil

07:00 Daredevil's Origin and Evolution

10:26 Frank Miller's Artistic Style

16:06 Born Again: Plot and Themes

32:13 David Mazzucchelli's Art in Born Again

38:22 Frank Miller's Complex Relationship with Women

39:01 Karen Page: The Fallen Woman Archetype

39:33 MAGA Hats and Modern Politics

40:23 Catholicism in Daredevil's Narrative

44:03 The Dismantling of Matt Murdock

51:28 Kingpin's Menacing Presence

58:23 Nuke and the Military Industrial Complex

01:11:22 Final Thoughts and Reflections


Join the Discord and read along

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7 months ago
1 hour 19 minutes 12 seconds

Collecting Issues
Doom #1 (2024) by Sanford Greene and Jonathan Hickman

Doom Endures: A look into Marvel's Doom #1 Giant-Sized One Shot


In this episode of Collecting Issues, the Monthly Comic Book Book Club reviews 'Doom Number One Giant Sized One Shot' by Jonathan Hickman and Sanford Greene. Hosts Michael and Benjamin discuss the complex character of Doctor Doom, the epic narrative, and the stunning artwork. They explore the connections between this comic and previous works by Hickman, the depiction of Galactus, and the comic's tribute to MF Doom. The episode also touches on the broader Marvel Universe, featuring appearances from numerous Marvel characters, and delves into the influence and legacy of Doctor Doom in both the comic and pop culture. Join in for a comprehensive discussion packed with humour, deep insights, and a love for all things comic book-related.


00:00 Introduction to Collecting Issues

00:07 Overview of Doom Number One

01:41 Jonathan Hickman and Sanford Greene's Collaboration

03:37 Sanford Greene's Inspiration and Love for Doctor Doom

04:10 Doctor Doom: Marvel's Batman

05:50 MF Doom and His Connection to Doctor Doom

11:01 The History and Evolution of Doctor Doom

23:45 Galactus: The Silent Annihilator

25:59 Epic Battles and Artistic Brilliance

31:02 Dr. Doom's Magical Transformation

31:54 Valeria's War Armour for Doom

32:26 Galactus and the Cosmic Threat

35:40 Marvel's Cosmic Showdown

48:16 Doom's Final Monologue and Conclusion

50:37 Final Thoughts and Wrap-Up



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9 months ago
59 minutes 41 seconds

Collecting Issues
Friday Books 1,2 & 3

Friday by Ed Brubaker, Marcos Martín, and Muntsa Vicente - Collecting Issues Book Club


In this episode of Collecting Issues, we read all of 'Friday,' books 1, 2, and 3 which comprise issues 1 to 9 of the 2020 Image Comics series by Ed Brubaker, Marcos Martín, and Múnze Vicente. Our hosts dissect the comic's intricate plot, characterized by its mix of grounded young adult themes, eldritch horrors, and unexpected time travel twists. They discuss the development of characters, especially Friday and Lancelot Jones, the evolving comic's mythology, and how the thematic elements blend together. Accompanied by Guy’s thoughtful review from the Collecting Issues Discord, this deep dive blends humor, analysis, and a shared enthusiasm for the comic medium.


00:00 Introduction to Collecting Issues: Friday Series Overview

00:51 The Origins and Delays of the Friday Series

04:21 Community Engagement and Discord Promotion

05:31 Elevator Pitch and Concept of Friday

07:29 Exploring Edward Gorey's Influence

09:58 Defining Young Adult Fiction

11:48 Main Characters: Lancelot Jones and Friday Fitzhugh

15:11 Setting and Time Period of the Story

17:57 Volume One: Grounded Beginnings

29:00 Gravity Falls Vibes and Influences

30:27 Book Two: On a Cold Winter's Night

31:16 Friday Fitzhugh's Investigation

33:27 The Cult and Supernatural Elements

38:46 Time Travel Twist

52:03 Final Showdown and Conclusion

54:46 Final Thoughts and Wrap-Up


Our Janruary read is: Give us your vote!


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10 months ago
1 hour 2 minutes 42 seconds

Collecting Issues
The Nice House on the Lake

In this episode of Collecting Issues, join us, Mick and Ben, as we dive into the 2021 DC Black Label series 'The Nice House on the Lake' by James Tynion IV and Alvaro Martínez Bueno. We take a look at the series' uniqueness and genre bending premise. The episode delves into themes like friend groups, nostalgia, and the complex character dynamics among former college friends. We unpack the enigmatic character of Walter, who may be an alien or may be a higher-dimensional being; either way, he's an emotionally damaged meddling manipulator.

We also explore the comic's meta-narrative techniques, post-apocalyptic setting, and pandemic-era reflections. The artistic strengths and narrative risks, such as resets and time jumps, are meticulously examined too.



00:00 Introduction to Collecting Issues

02:18 Discussion on The Lake House Movie

03:17 Introduction to The Nice House on the Lake

04:11 Publication and Awards

05:14 DC Black Label and Vertigo

07:10 Genre and Influences

09:39 Character Dynamics and Friend Groups

14:19 Art Style and Character Design

17:51 Meta-Narrative and Plot Twists

31:31 Character Overload and Walter's Struggles

33:01 Walter's Console and Its Implications

39:59 Coping Mechanisms in the Apocalypse

42:18 Walter's Manipulative Nature

50:07 The Uncertain Reality of the Apocalypse

59:56 Final Thoughts and Reflections


Our November read is: Friday Books 1&2 by Ed Brubaker, Marcus Martín and Munisa Vicente


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1 year ago
1 hour 6 minutes 54 seconds

Collecting Issues
All Star Superman

Collecting Issues is Back! Join Mick and Ben as they work their way through 'All Star Superman' by Grant Morrison, Frank Quitely, and Jamie Grant.


This episode explores the 12-issue series' themes, characters, and narratives, emphasising its Silver Age influences and the humanisation of Superman. We examine introspective moments, Superman's vision quest, and his ultimate sacrifice, drawing parallels to mythological symbols while discussing Lex Luthor's transformation and moral complexity. The cultural significance of Superman and the comic’s standalone impact on modern storytelling are highlighted. Engaging with listeners, we invite feedback and recommendations and preview our next read, 'The Nice House on the Lake.' Whether a long-time fan or new to the series, discover why this remains one of Superman’s defining stories.


  • [00:00] Introduction to All Star Superman
  • [00:34] Comic Book Hiatus and Return
  • [02:10] Monthly Comic Book Club Format
  • [02:54] October's Spooky Read
  • [04:34] Superman: A Modern Take
  • [05:48] The All Star Initiative
  • [11:57] Superman's Cultural Impact
  • [19:52] Superman's Origin Story
  • [26:36] Superman's Golden and Silver Ages
  • [31:48] Grant Morrison's Vision
  • [41:58] The Rise of Frank Quitely
  • [43:33] Superman's Subtle Heroics
  • [44:55] Lois Lane's Superwoman Day
  • [46:13] Grant Morrison's Silver Age Tribute
  • [51:58] Lex Luthor's Gospel
  • [01:01:03] The Bizarro Planet Arc
  • [01:10:48] Superman's Final Will and Testament
  • [01:15:22] Lex Luthor's Ultimate Betrayal of Humanity
  • [01:20:19] Wrapping Up and Future Plans


Our October read is: The Nice House on the Lake by James Tynion IV and Alvaro Martinez


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The Featurette Ben Was Talking About



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1 year ago
1 hour 23 minutes 9 seconds

Collecting Issues
Collecting Issues: Fantastic Four Full Circle

Welcome to Collecting Issues. This week Mick and Ben discuss Fantastic Four Full Circle from Marvel Arts by Alex Ross, first published in 2022.

Join our Discord server and chat about this issue's comic; Collecting Issues Book Club

Find us at www.seomrabeag.com/collectingissues



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2 years ago
32 minutes 13 seconds

Collecting Issues
Colecting Issues - Lucifer, Vol. 2: The Divine Tragedy

Welcome to Collecting Issues. This week Mick and Ben discuss Lucifer, Vol. 2: The Divine Tragedy from DC by Dan Watters, first published in 2018.

Join our Discord server and chat about this issue's comic; Collecting Issues Book Club

Find us at www.seomrabeag.com/collectingissues



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3 years ago
27 minutes 33 seconds

Collecting Issues
Collecting Issues - Animal Man The Origin of the Species

Welcome to Collecting Issues. This week Mick and Ben discuss Animal Man Vol.2 The Origin of the Species from DC by Grant Morrison, first published in 2002.

Join our Discord server and chat about this issue's comic; Collecting Issues Book Club

Find us at www.seomrabeag.com/collectingissues



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3 years ago
32 minutes 57 seconds

Collecting Issues
Collecting Issues: The Sandman: The Doll’s House

Welcome to Collecting Issues. This week Mick and Ben discuss The Sandman: The Doll's House from Vertigo Comics by Neil Gaiman and Mike Dringenberg, first published in 1989.

Join our Discord server and chat about this issue's comic; Collecting Issues Book Club

Find us at www.seomrabeag.com/collectingissues



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3 years ago
37 minutes 1 second

Collecting Issues
Collecting Issues - The Sensational She-Hulk

Welcome to Collecting Issues. This week Mick and Ben discuss The Sensational She-Hulk from Marvel Comics by John Byrne, first published in 1988.

Join our Discord server and chat about this issue's comic; Collecting Issues Book Club

Find us at www.seomrabeag.com/collectingissues



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3 years ago
32 minutes 37 seconds

Collecting Issues

Welcome to Collecting Issues, the monthly comic book club podcast! Each month, we choose a single graphic novel and invite you, our community, to read along with us. We want you to share your thoughts, theories, and favourite moments on our Discord, and join the conversation.

At the end of each month, we record an episode full of comic-loving fun, discussing the story, art, and everything in between.

Whether you're a seasoned collector or new to comics, Collecting Issues is the perfect place to explore great reads and connect with fellow fans. Let's celebrate the world of comics together


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