You gotta expect that a little bit just based on the limitations of printing technology of the period. BWS started coloring his own stuff early on, which helped in terms of a final printed product more representative of his intent, but he has admitted it would still have looked hundreds of times better with modern digital precision. Michael Golden isn't shy about expressing some of his "career dissatisfaction" even though in Marvel Fanfare he experienced far better printing quality than most newsstand line comics of the era.
I'm sorry to hear about your struggle with depression man. I've struggled with a lot of depression/anxiety as well. God bless you sir. I will genuinely pray for you today.
Hey Chris regardless of if you think we “don’t care about” your depression, there are always going to be members of your community and in your life that very much do. I never share anything person on YT but I just want you to know you’re never alone, man. Your work is wonderful and you seem like a genuine person. Thanks for always putting in effort. Always promoting amazing work and interesting stories. And always being you dude, you’re appreciated as a person. Not just for Comic Tropes but for who your are outside of this channel. Once again I’m not trying to be all “parasocial relationship” with you, but it’s just reality. There are always people who care about you as a person.
Agreed. I don't know you personaly Chris. But I have watched you for years. Friendly. Insightful. Some real zingers mixed in. So while we ofc don't know you deeply alot of us still care. You seem like a genuinely good dude. One that has given me hours of enjoyment on UA-cam and many more reading the comics you recommend. These videos might not be doing something grand like curing cancer or whatever. But you bring joy. You are a net positive to this world.
Depression doesn't have anything to do with money or success. Look at Robin Williams or Anthony Bourdain. Both were highly successful people making money, and borh succumbed to their depression. Money doesn't make your brain suddenly create the right chemicals.
I used to manage a comic book store in CT back in the early 90s. Mike Zeck was a regular customer. We had a lot of writers and artists as customers since we were a suburb of New York City. Mike Zeck though stood out. He was just a regular guy who would ask questions about what everyone was excited about. So many others acted like they were rock stars. They forgot that outside of the geeky culture no one knew or cared who they were. Zeck and Jerry Ordway were the two artists who always stood out because they cared about the fans and really appreciated our support. Mike Zeck is a great artist but he is also a top human being.
Hey, Chris. I just want you to know that I also deal with some serious issues regarding depression. And at a point when I was losing interest in the things that make me happy, you helped renew that. I discovered Comic Tropes at just the right time. You always say "Keep Reading comics." And I do. But a big part of that is because you kept me reading comics. And that's been a big help in the darker times. Sorry for rambling, but I just wanted you to know that, I hope it helps in some small way to know that.
do what you can Chris, don't overwork yourself. Any day we see a new episode is a good day, no matter how long it takes. Take good care of yourself, that's what counts. You're important :)
Met Mike Zeck at a convention as a nervous fifteen-year-old kid holding an issue number one of Secret Wars. He was incredibly warm and answered my dumb questions. I'm 23 now and I think back on our interaction as the most positive of my personal idols. Absolute masterclass artist and person.
Funny, me and my friends were just talking about Zeck. He's underrated especially in the cover department: Cap Annual vs Wolverine, Dethlok Cap cover, Secret Wars #1 cover, Jazz hands Spidey Secret Wars cover, Web of Spidey coming from the grave, Cap No More cover. This is all from my head. All iconic covers.
Yes I remember well his art inteh 80s , in cap / the punisher / and his master piece , kraven 's last hunt. His heros were muscular and menacing. Great years !!
yep so underappreciated he isn't even on the extensive dropdown autofill list of artists / writers that ebay uses for comic listings. . .I always type his name in manually whenever I post anything with his art :)
I got a stack of comics for Christmas in 1984. I never really had any of my own before but in the stack was Secret Wars #1-4. I was hooked immediately and started looking for more comics at our local 7-Eleven spinner rack where I found Punisher #1. And I loved GI Joe (especially that cover for issue #24 that you featured a couple times in the video). I have great memories of his Captain America run too. Didn't even realize back then that they were all from Mike Zeck, I just thought this is what comic book art looks like and that's why I loved it. Mike Zeck is still my favorite artist even 40 years later.
You're important too Chris, and we care about you!! Your content is something that I, as a fellow mental health issue sufferer, looks forward to each week. Keep fighting!!! I for one am in your corner!!!
Mike Zeck will always be one of my favorite creatives in comics. Not only for his amazing art that's had such a lasting impact, but because he was the first artist I ever met at Fan Fusion (Arizona Comic Con) back in high school. He was extremely warm and even talked to my mother talked for a while about life. It's a memory I still hold on to and made me want to seek out more of his work beyond Spider-Man.
Love this art. His Wolverine attacking Cap mesmerized me as kid. I was able to get a signed print 30+ years later. He also signed my “Kraven’s Last Hunt” and drew Spider-Man eyes with the Spidey sense waves; a prized piece in my nerd collection. He seems like a good guy to boot.
Seriously man uploads for this channel are a fucking treat. And one on Mike Zeck? Ever since I read Kraven’s Last Hunt I’ve had nothing but respect for his abilities as an artist. A phenomenal talent. Also, seriously man, we all love you and if you ever feel the need to vent and update us, we definitely care. Its a good thing to be open like that.
I loved Mike Zeck. Claremont/Byrne's X-Men, Miller's Daredevil, Bob Layton's Ironman, McFarlane's Hulk, Byrne's Fantastic Four, Walt Simonson's Thor and Zeck's Captain America: My favorite comic runs in the 1980's. It truly was something special that gave me a life-long love for comics. And I relived many of these joys through the videos on Comic Tropes, some of the best content on UA-cam
Hey Chris, you're legimately my favorite UA-camr and you're the only one I have the bell set to notify me when you make a new video. I've struggled with depression my entire adult life, turning my life into one long pursuit for happiness. Maybe if I make more money it'll make me happy, maybe if I buy this new thing it'll make me happy, maybe if I get an awesome girlfriend it'll make me happy, but the depression never leaves. Having said that, I hope you realize you've done something amazing and something to be proud of. You have 200k+ followers, built a loyal fanbase, you put yourself out there starting a UA-cam channel and stuck to it, and did someting that most people can't or are too afraid to do. I hope when you're feeling down you take a step back and look at all you've accomplished.
That Captain America Annual #8 cover unlocked a memory for me. I now vividly remember it seeing it for sale as a poster and always wanting it. Just went on ebay and got one!
Some of those covers are very interesting. The way he uses that shining look effectively instead of the traditional focus on darkness to convey a creepy or dangerous feeling is something not seen often in comics or other things.
His work on Secret Wars, the Spider-man, Kraven run and along with the original 1982 Brood X-Men storyline by Chris Claremont, Dave Cockrum and Paul Smith, those were my gateway drugs into comics, what a time!
How can you talk about Zeck with out mentioning John Beatty's inks. The two are a dynamic duo and truly made some epic work together. I'd argue Zecks work was always elevated with Beatty's inks.
Don't normally see appreciation for Mik Zeck. Loved his work in the 80s. I was into the Secret Wars, Captain America, Punisher and especially Kraven's Last Hunt. Chris, thank you for all you contribute. You are definitely appreciated as well. Keep up and stay healthy. Take all the time you need.
Thanks! Mike Zeck's covers are masterclass. The only other artist that does gear porn (weapons and vehicles) as good is Michael Golden. Zeck's one of the best comic book legacy artists from the 1980's, and the 80's had no shortage of great talent. If you like him, you may enjoy the similar styles of Jim Lee, Marc Silvestri, Lee Weeks and Ron Wagner (who is highly underrated).
Loved this video! I'm a fairly newer/younger comic reader and I really do love your videos highlighting creators who I may see but not pay attention to! I feel like you share your experience from decades of reading and allow me to feel like I've been here the whole time, rather than just catching up now. Sorry to hear you're not doing too well at the moment, bit of a pagliacci situation, I tend you watch a lot of your videos and similar stuff when I'm getting hammered by my brainworms, so thank you for being there for me in those times. Glad to hear you've got strong support mechanisms in your family and friends though, that's invaluable. Stay strong Chris ❤️
I gotta say: Whenever I'm struggling to find the motivation to make art, your videos recounting the lives of comic book artists never fail to get me inspired. In my head, it's like, "Man, look at the lives these people led! Look at what their hard work helped them achieve! This is something worth my effort!". I may not want to be a comic book artist, but as someone who struggles with ADHD, these sorts of things are really what I need to become motivated to do the things I enjoy. Thank you, keep up the good work!
Mike Zeck’s anatomy and poses on Master of Kung Fu were what got me into that character and then I followed him over to Captain America. I’m such a huge fan. I got excited when I saw that he was the subject of your latest episode. Thanks for a good one. Please keep in mind that there are lots of people, strangers you’ve never met, that are pulling for you and wishing you well.
We love you Chris! We don't care how long things take, you and your work are valuable and your health comes first! You are a blessing and I look forward to every single one of your videos! You are important!! ❤
I love your channel - your enthusiasm is so pure and reminds me so much of why I have always loved comics. You present things so well - such great research and info presented with such a friendly enthusiasm. You seem like a guy I could hang out with at the comic shop and just talk all day about this stuff. As far as Mick Zeck, wow he's such a great artist - likewise I was an 80s kid and his work pulled me into comics big time. I will never forget the first time I saw Punisher #1 on the shelves and I had to have it immediately. I was just a kid and had no idea who the Punisher was but I had to have that comic and I still have it almost 45 years later - crazy! I never saw a picture of Mick Zeck until this video and I always pictured him like a big muscular, squared jawed guy like his characters - isn't that funny? I think that shows how much his work just ooozed muscles and toughness. I think Marvel's peak was the 80s - Zeck, Byrne, BWS, Simonson, etc. I don't think it ever got better really despite the Image crew that came after who obviously made a huge impact.
I remember picking up ALL that great Mike Zeck art on Secret Wars.. Captain America.. Punisher.. ESPECIALLY that Captain America Annual with Wolverine..& basically everything he did for Marvel Comics at my local NYC comic book shop during the 1980s. Thanks for bringing back all these great memories..im a huge fan of Comic Tropes. Anyways hang in there brother ..i know its not always easy. 👑
Man, I've heard you speak about your struggles with depression before, but your reveal at the end of this video scared me. Please know that your work is valued. I'm grateful I found your channel and am thankful for your profiles of comic book artists and your recommendations for reading. Every time you've offered suggestions, I've begun searching for the books at my local libraries or online. You have given me hours of great reading. Thank you for your work!
As a new subscriber I really appreciate your work on your channels. I’m sorry to hear about your challenges with depression and I hope you continue to get the support that you need. As a complete stranger I just wanted to let you know you make an impact and matter a great deal to the comic community, family and friends and to strangers like myself. All the best to you
For me, it was the art on Kraven's Last Hunt that blew my mind and made me check the credits to know the name of the artist. I still have the Mexican edition of those issues. An excellent video, as usual.
Went to a comic show years ago in Dallas and got to meet Mike zeck. He was an awesome guy and he was sitting right next to Bernie wrightson. Two amazing artists. I told him that your punisher IS punisher and he said thanks for that. Captain America 286 and GI Joe 24 are two of my favorite covers from the 80’s. Just awesome dynamic work. Great video comic tropes and something else….you’re important too. I always feel like I’m going to learn something I didn’t know when I watch your stuff. Thank you for that. Clinical depression is a scary thing but know that you’re important and valued and what you do matters. Thank you
Zeck is probably my all-time favorite comic book artist. I got introduced to his work on his Punisher limited series and was completely blown away. Thank you for a great video Chris!
Hey Chris,just wanted to let you know,I've always loved your channel and the content that you put out,I love the way you write your videos,the little jokes and the way you analyse and disect artworks and panels,you made me discover a lot of great artists I would've never known about without you,you're the person who made me interested in comics,so from the bottom of my heart,I wish you the best and take care of yourself,not every day is easy but we can get through it,hope it cheered you up a bit reading that,lots of love and support from Belgium !
I've been slowly reading every 616 related comic and I think Zeck's time on master of kung fu with double 0 Shang Chi is worth more than a footnote. I found he always had a excellent composition when it came to fight scenes with a really good flow panel to panel that no one at Marvel could do at the time IMO. Also sorry to hear you're still having issues with your depression, but it sounds like you have a good support system in place. I'm always happy to see when one of your videos hit my subscription feed for whatever that's worth.
Hey, Chris. I'm tormented by anxiety and depression as well. I just wanted to let you know that I admire the fact that you addressed it with us. I know how difficult it can be to open up to others. I'm glad you have support, and I hope you start to feel better.
Great job as always Chris. I want you to know I also suffer from depression to a certain extent, but your show gets me through some harder times so you are making a difference at least in my life and I suspect many other so thank you. We understand and are with you. 👍🏻
I got to have dinner with Mike Zeck after the release of Damned. He was a regular at a little comic shop in CT and I got to talk with him pretty often. Absolutely wonderful guy.
hey bro, I love your channel a lot! thanks for all the content! I hope you get the help needed about your depression it must be tough I'm sending a lot of love from Brazil to you!!
I'm Luis Kulik, or Luis Gingerbread (english artistic name). I'm a digital and comic artist from brazil and your channel has been my way to release stress or any negative emotions I may had in my process. Recently I've been diagnosed with autism and I too have struggled with depression and anxiety my whole life. One of my hiperfocus/hiperfixations is comics and comic book history and your work has helped me in many occasions. You are very important to me and I believe that you're very important for so many people around the world. Hope things get better for you. Sending the biggest virtual hug someone has ever send to another. ❤
Excellent episode Chris! However I'd like to say that you are not alone and even though I'm just texting on the internet, there's another person on the other side of the screen who understands how hard it is living with depression. You are a light to many people and I'm sure are loved closely by those around you, keep your head up and keep reading comics!
Zeck is still doing conventions, despite what his site may say. This year he came to the ComicCon in Melbourne Australia. He said it was his first time in the country. He ran a panel and signed books. Did a cute drawing in my copy of Last Hunt.
I have a poster of the 1st issue of The Punisher miniseries framed & hanged on my wall 🙂 And heck yeah, Mike Zeck really did make some memorable Punisher covers & I love them! 🤘😃🙂 Take your time, Chris, and I really hope you get better.
Just woke up, gonna watch another great video by a fellow comic book fan with a hot cup of joe and a breakfast sandwich. Thanks for the great content Chris!
I love Mike Zeck's artwork. So glad I did get to thank him in person! Got to talk with him quite some time while he signed several of my comics for me. He's a really, really nice guy.
Always greatful for the effort that you put into each episode. IMO, Chris, your channel is one of the classiest that produces comicbook content. Thank you!
The way José Luís García-López created my mental image of the core DC Universe, Mike Zeck did the same for the Marvel characters for me. One of the few times the word iconic makes all the sense. Please, take good care. Not every day has to be a homerun.
Great stuff as always, Chris. As a kid in the '90s before I even knew most comic artists by name, I had a big poster in my bedroom featuring Captain America fighting a bunch of armed thugs. It was a Mike Zeck drawing with some very realistic inking and coloring, and it truthfully kinda scared me at night. 😂
As an aspiring cartoonist who's grown up watching your videos and still watches them, please know that you've been doing great work in highlighting and analyzing the works of many creators that I otherwise would have never discovered. Especially the past couple years, your level of production and writing has really improved, and I'm looking forward to seeing your channel continue to grow. You're a genuine lynch pin in the Comics community and I hope you get through this rough patch. Thank you for your work, Chris.
Chris i admire all the work you do, i'm with you i hope you get better. Sometimes we have to go deeper in ourselves to find our way. If you wanna just talk about it im here.
Thank you for this! I feel terrible I didn't know this name. I think you and I are about the same age and G.I. Joe #48 marked my official start to comic collecting when I first opened a hold slot at the local comic shop. And seeing all of the other familiar covers from my youth were also by him. Wow. Great work as always!
Keep going, brother and stay strong. The videos you make are a delight and I love zoning out to them especially when my anxiety’s take over me. Just know what you do brings joy and makes others days brighter. In regards to Mike Zeck; I had the pleasure of meeting him earlier this year at Supanova. He was very friendly and was nice enough to sign my books and even did a little Spidey Remarque for me. He’s a great artist.
Great episode, Chris. I had the opportunity to meet Mike Zeck at a Boston Comic Con about 8 years ago and he was an excellent, easy going guy. I am in my 50s, so like you, I grew up on his work and thanked him for still coming to cons (at that time) because he was one of my childhood heroes I really wanted to meet.
I want to thank you for giving me great insights into the comic book industry and introducing me to so many great artists. I used to dismiss comic books, but now I have great respect for many of them. I'm hoping you know that there are people out there that do care and wish you the best. ❤
Dude, we lost way too many good people in comics lately. Put yourself first and keep going and do well! I rather see a video from you rarely than never again. You are one of the people that keep comics nice! It´s very appreciated!
It's nice to hear about a retired comics worker who 1) is in good financial shape 2) is satisfied with their body of work.
I agree. Too many seem to be unsatisfied by the end despite their body of work.
Mi pregunta es cómo se pensiono y se puedo retirar de los cómics.
That really is winning the lottery in that industry
You gotta expect that a little bit just based on the limitations of printing technology of the period. BWS started coloring his own stuff early on, which helped in terms of a final printed product more representative of his intent, but he has admitted it would still have looked hundreds of times better with modern digital precision. Michael Golden isn't shy about expressing some of his "career dissatisfaction" even though in Marvel Fanfare he experienced far better printing quality than most newsstand line comics of the era.
@@stevenfunderburg1623 I think you replied to the wrong comment?
I'm sorry to hear about your struggle with depression man. I've struggled with a lot of depression/anxiety as well. God bless you sir. I will genuinely pray for you today.
Hey Chris regardless of if you think we “don’t care about” your depression, there are always going to be members of your community and in your life that very much do. I never share anything person on YT but I just want you to know you’re never alone, man. Your work is wonderful and you seem like a genuine person. Thanks for always putting in effort. Always promoting amazing work and interesting stories. And always being you dude, you’re appreciated as a person. Not just for Comic Tropes but for who your are outside of this channel. Once again I’m not trying to be all “parasocial relationship” with you, but it’s just reality. There are always people who care about you as a person.
What he said
Agreed.
I don't know you personaly Chris. But I have watched you for years. Friendly. Insightful. Some real zingers mixed in.
So while we ofc don't know you deeply alot of us still care.
You seem like a genuinely good dude. One that has given me hours of enjoyment on UA-cam and many more reading the comics you recommend.
These videos might not be doing something grand like curing cancer or whatever. But you bring joy.
You are a net positive to this world.
He has lots of subscribers and is making money of UA-cam I don’t know why he would be depressed
Depression doesn't have anything to do with money or success. Look at Robin Williams or Anthony Bourdain. Both were highly successful people making money, and borh succumbed to their depression. Money doesn't make your brain suddenly create the right chemicals.
@@saibrickshop969life is more than that
i really don’t understand how you only have 230k subs--you’re my new favorite comic content creator !!!
I used to manage a comic book store in CT back in the early 90s. Mike Zeck was a regular customer. We had a lot of writers and artists as customers since we were a suburb of New York City. Mike Zeck though stood out. He was just a regular guy who would ask questions about what everyone was excited about. So many others acted like they were rock stars. They forgot that outside of the geeky culture no one knew or cared who they were. Zeck and Jerry Ordway were the two artists who always stood out because they cared about the fans and really appreciated our support. Mike Zeck is a great artist but he is also a top human being.
no way! thats so cool!
That's awesome. Was it Galaxy Comics any chance?
@@metalmusic7620 No. It was the Dream Factory location in Orange, CT
Ok, cool. I know they came Galaxy also.
Which was in Norwalk.
Hey, Chris. I just want you to know that I also deal with some serious issues regarding depression.
And at a point when I was losing interest in the things that make me happy, you helped renew that. I discovered Comic Tropes at just the right time.
You always say "Keep Reading comics."
And I do. But a big part of that is because you kept me reading comics. And that's been a big help in the darker times.
Sorry for rambling, but I just wanted you to know that, I hope it helps in some small way to know that.
I've known Mike for 50 years and I was one of the first people to publish his art.
Take care Chris. It takes courage to talk about your struggle with drepression. Your channel brings joy to a lot of people.
do what you can Chris, don't overwork yourself. Any day we see a new episode is a good day, no matter how long it takes. Take good care of yourself, that's what counts. You're important :)
Met Mike Zeck at a convention as a nervous fifteen-year-old kid holding an issue number one of Secret Wars. He was incredibly warm and answered my dumb questions. I'm 23 now and I think back on our interaction as the most positive of my personal idols. Absolute masterclass artist and person.
Funny, me and my friends were just talking about Zeck. He's underrated especially in the cover department: Cap Annual vs Wolverine, Dethlok Cap cover, Secret Wars #1 cover, Jazz hands Spidey Secret Wars cover, Web of Spidey coming from the grave, Cap No More cover. This is all from my head. All iconic covers.
Yeah, Deathlok cover is made me pick up my first issue of Captain America.
Yes I remember well his art inteh 80s , in cap / the punisher / and his master piece , kraven 's last hunt. His heros were muscular and menacing. Great years !!
yep so underappreciated he isn't even on the extensive dropdown autofill list of artists / writers that ebay uses for comic listings. . .I always type his name in manually whenever I post anything with his art :)
Be well, Chris. we love the show, but remember you are important beyond that. I wish you all the best and love all the content you make.
Commenting for reach. I get so many good suggestions for things to read from this channel. Bless.
He is the quintessential Punisher artist, and everything he touched was beautiful!
Zeck is the shit! His covers blow me away!
I got a stack of comics for Christmas in 1984. I never really had any of my own before but in the stack was Secret Wars #1-4. I was hooked immediately and started looking for more comics at our local 7-Eleven spinner rack where I found Punisher #1. And I loved GI Joe (especially that cover for issue #24 that you featured a couple times in the video). I have great memories of his Captain America run too. Didn't even realize back then that they were all from Mike Zeck, I just thought this is what comic book art looks like and that's why I loved it. Mike Zeck is still my favorite artist even 40 years later.
You're important too Chris, and we care about you!! Your content is something that I, as a fellow mental health issue sufferer, looks forward to each week. Keep fighting!!! I for one am in your corner!!!
You're the reason I am going for a career in some sort of art---your enthusiasm is infectious and much appreciated. DON'T GIVE UP!
Love Zeck one of my all time favourite artist's.
Mike Zeck will always be one of my favorite creatives in comics. Not only for his amazing art that's had such a lasting impact, but because he was the first artist I ever met at Fan Fusion (Arizona Comic Con) back in high school. He was extremely warm and even talked to my mother talked for a while about life. It's a memory I still hold on to and made me want to seek out more of his work beyond Spider-Man.
Love this art. His Wolverine attacking Cap mesmerized me as kid. I was able to get a signed print 30+ years later. He also signed my “Kraven’s Last Hunt” and drew Spider-Man eyes with the Spidey sense waves; a prized piece in my nerd collection. He seems like a good guy to boot.
Seriously man uploads for this channel are a fucking treat. And one on Mike Zeck? Ever since I read Kraven’s Last Hunt I’ve had nothing but respect for his abilities as an artist. A phenomenal talent. Also, seriously man, we all love you and if you ever feel the need to vent and update us, we definitely care. Its a good thing to be open like that.
I loved Mike Zeck. Claremont/Byrne's X-Men, Miller's Daredevil, Bob Layton's Ironman, McFarlane's Hulk, Byrne's Fantastic Four, Walt Simonson's Thor and Zeck's Captain America: My favorite comic runs in the 1980's. It truly was something special that gave me a life-long love for comics. And I relived many of these joys through the videos on Comic Tropes, some of the best content on UA-cam
So glad that people were talking about Mike Zeck. He's such a talented artist
Mike Zeck raised the bar on every projetct he was involved , Shang chi Cap America, Punisher, Secret Wars , Spider Man
really a giant.
Hey Chris, you're legimately my favorite UA-camr and you're the only one I have the bell set to notify me when you make a new video. I've struggled with depression my entire adult life, turning my life into one long pursuit for happiness. Maybe if I make more money it'll make me happy, maybe if I buy this new thing it'll make me happy, maybe if I get an awesome girlfriend it'll make me happy, but the depression never leaves. Having said that, I hope you realize you've done something amazing and something to be proud of. You have 200k+ followers, built a loyal fanbase, you put yourself out there starting a UA-cam channel and stuck to it, and did someting that most people can't or are too afraid to do. I hope when you're feeling down you take a step back and look at all you've accomplished.
That Captain America Annual #8 cover unlocked a memory for me. I now vividly remember it seeing it for sale as a poster and always wanting it. Just went on ebay and got one!
Some of those covers are very interesting. The way he uses that shining look effectively instead of the traditional focus on darkness to convey a creepy or dangerous feeling is something not seen often in comics or other things.
His work on Secret Wars, the Spider-man, Kraven run and along with the original 1982 Brood X-Men storyline by Chris Claremont, Dave Cockrum and Paul Smith, those were my gateway drugs into comics, what a time!
How can you talk about Zeck with out mentioning John Beatty's inks. The two are a dynamic duo and truly made some epic work together.
I'd argue Zecks work was always elevated with Beatty's inks.
This is a great point
@@TheBeowulf ty very much
I think he mentioned him, but didn't talk much about him.
@@malafakka8530 I didn't hear his name, maybe I missed it . I'll have to look again
He's mentioned at the very end of the video. @ 23:27
Don't normally see appreciation for Mik Zeck. Loved his work in the 80s. I was into the Secret Wars, Captain America, Punisher and especially Kraven's Last Hunt.
Chris, thank you for all you contribute. You are definitely appreciated as well. Keep up and stay healthy. Take all the time you need.
Thanks! Mike Zeck's covers are masterclass. The only other artist that does gear porn (weapons and vehicles) as good is Michael Golden. Zeck's one of the best comic book legacy artists from the 1980's, and the 80's had no shortage of great talent. If you like him, you may enjoy the similar styles of Jim Lee, Marc Silvestri, Lee Weeks and Ron Wagner (who is highly underrated).
Loved this video! I'm a fairly newer/younger comic reader and I really do love your videos highlighting creators who I may see but not pay attention to!
I feel like you share your experience from decades of reading and allow me to feel like I've been here the whole time, rather than just catching up now.
Sorry to hear you're not doing too well at the moment, bit of a pagliacci situation, I tend you watch a lot of your videos and similar stuff when I'm getting hammered by my brainworms, so thank you for being there for me in those times. Glad to hear you've got strong support mechanisms in your family and friends though, that's invaluable. Stay strong Chris ❤️
I gotta say:
Whenever I'm struggling to find the motivation to make art, your videos recounting the lives of comic book artists never fail to get me inspired. In my head, it's like, "Man, look at the lives these people led! Look at what their hard work helped them achieve! This is something worth my effort!". I may not want to be a comic book artist, but as someone who struggles with ADHD, these sorts of things are really what I need to become motivated to do the things I enjoy. Thank you, keep up the good work!
Mike Zeck’s anatomy and poses on Master of Kung Fu were what got me into that character and then I followed him over to Captain America. I’m such a huge fan. I got excited when I saw that he was the subject of your latest episode. Thanks for a good one.
Please keep in mind that there are lots of people, strangers you’ve never met, that are pulling for you and wishing you well.
We love you Chris! We don't care how long things take, you and your work are valuable and your health comes first! You are a blessing and I look forward to every single one of your videos! You are important!! ❤
I love your channel - your enthusiasm is so pure and reminds me so much of why I have always loved comics. You present things so well - such great research and info presented with such a friendly enthusiasm. You seem like a guy I could hang out with at the comic shop and just talk all day about this stuff. As far as Mick Zeck, wow he's such a great artist - likewise I was an 80s kid and his work pulled me into comics big time. I will never forget the first time I saw Punisher #1 on the shelves and I had to have it immediately. I was just a kid and had no idea who the Punisher was but I had to have that comic and I still have it almost 45 years later - crazy! I never saw a picture of Mick Zeck until this video and I always pictured him like a big muscular, squared jawed guy like his characters - isn't that funny? I think that shows how much his work just ooozed muscles and toughness. I think Marvel's peak was the 80s - Zeck, Byrne, BWS, Simonson, etc. I don't think it ever got better really despite the Image crew that came after who obviously made a huge impact.
I remember picking up ALL that great Mike Zeck art on Secret Wars.. Captain America.. Punisher.. ESPECIALLY that Captain America Annual with Wolverine..& basically everything he did for Marvel Comics at my local NYC comic book shop during the 1980s.
Thanks for bringing back all these great memories..im a huge fan of Comic Tropes.
Anyways hang in there brother ..i know its not always easy.
👑
I’ve had the pleasure of meeting Mike Zeck several years back. He’s incredibly nice and friendly!
Man, I've heard you speak about your struggles with depression before, but your reveal at the end of this video scared me. Please know that your work is valued. I'm grateful I found your channel and am thankful for your profiles of comic book artists and your recommendations for reading. Every time you've offered suggestions, I've begun searching for the books at my local libraries or online. You have given me hours of great reading. Thank you for your work!
As a new subscriber I really appreciate your work on your channels. I’m sorry to hear about your challenges with depression and I hope you continue to get the support that you need. As a complete stranger I just wanted to let you know you make an impact and matter a great deal to the comic community, family and friends and to strangers like myself. All the best to you
Love to hear stories of artists who are happily retired!
For me, it was the art on Kraven's Last Hunt that blew my mind and made me check the credits to know the name of the artist. I still have the Mexican edition of those issues.
An excellent video, as usual.
Well, after the last couple of days, this is the wholesome content we needed... Take care Chris, your're important too.
Went to a comic show years ago in Dallas and got to meet Mike zeck. He was an awesome guy and he was sitting right next to Bernie wrightson. Two amazing artists. I told him that your punisher IS punisher and he said thanks for that. Captain America 286 and GI Joe 24 are two of my favorite covers from the 80’s. Just awesome dynamic work. Great video comic tropes and something else….you’re important too. I always feel like I’m going to learn something I didn’t know when I watch your stuff. Thank you for that. Clinical depression is a scary thing but know that you’re important and valued and what you do matters. Thank you
Zeck is probably my all-time favorite comic book artist. I got introduced to his work on his Punisher limited series and was completely blown away.
Thank you for a great video Chris!
His Captain America entry in TOHOTMU is iconic !!!!
Zeck's art is totally Underrated ❤ His style was always iconic and recognizable as his own.
Dude you rule, bro; we love you and your work. Thank you!!!
The Zeck run on Master of Kung Fu is why I started collecting as a 12 year old. I love his Cap work as well.
What a great career
Also hang in there chris, we're in rough times
Hey Chris,just wanted to let you know,I've always loved your channel and the content that you put out,I love the way you write your videos,the little jokes and the way you analyse and disect artworks and panels,you made me discover a lot of great artists I would've never known about without you,you're the person who made me interested in comics,so from the bottom of my heart,I wish you the best and take care of yourself,not every day is easy but we can get through it,hope it cheered you up a bit reading that,lots of love and support from Belgium !
Great content. Mental health > UA-cam schedules, take as much time as you need.
Always so dynamic and his faces so expressive. I loved reading his work as a kid and still do today.
I don't think a lot of these classic stories would be classics without Mike Zeck's art.
I've been slowly reading every 616 related comic and I think Zeck's time on master of kung fu with double 0 Shang Chi is worth more than a footnote. I found he always had a excellent composition when it came to fight scenes with a really good flow panel to panel that no one at Marvel could do at the time IMO.
Also sorry to hear you're still having issues with your depression, but it sounds like you have a good support system in place. I'm always happy to see when one of your videos hit my subscription feed for whatever that's worth.
Hey, Chris. I'm tormented by anxiety and depression as well. I just wanted to let you know that I admire the fact that you addressed it with us. I know how difficult it can be to open up to others. I'm glad you have support, and I hope you start to feel better.
Admirable, yep. Means a lot to lots of us.
Probably my favorite Punisher artist. I loved how he drew Frank as a big and imposing figure.
Great job as always Chris. I want you to know I also suffer from depression to a certain extent, but your show gets me through some harder times so you are making a difference at least in my life and I suspect many other so thank you. We understand and are with you. 👍🏻
I got to have dinner with Mike Zeck after the release of Damned. He was a regular at a little comic shop in CT and I got to talk with him pretty often. Absolutely wonderful guy.
hey bro, I love your channel a lot!
thanks for all the content!
I hope you get the help needed about your depression
it must be tough
I'm sending a lot of love from Brazil to you!!
I'm Luis Kulik, or Luis Gingerbread (english artistic name). I'm a digital and comic artist from brazil and your channel has been my way to release stress or any negative emotions I may had in my process. Recently I've been diagnosed with autism and I too have struggled with depression and anxiety my whole life. One of my hiperfocus/hiperfixations is comics and comic book history and your work has helped me in many occasions. You are very important to me and I believe that you're very important for so many people around the world. Hope things get better for you. Sending the biggest virtual hug someone has ever send to another. ❤
Thank you for helping share comic history and showing me artists I’ve never heard of Chris ! 🤘🔥🔥🔥
Excellent episode Chris! However I'd like to say that you are not alone and even though I'm just texting on the internet, there's another person on the other side of the screen who understands how hard it is living with depression. You are a light to many people and I'm sure are loved closely by those around you, keep your head up and keep reading comics!
Zeck is still doing conventions, despite what his site may say. This year he came to the ComicCon in Melbourne Australia. He said it was his first time in the country. He ran a panel and signed books. Did a cute drawing in my copy of Last Hunt.
Superb artist. The heady days of Spiderman and others when growing up in the 80s. Always loved his covers too. Kraven's Last Hunt!
Excellent ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
I've been a fan of Mike Zeck's artwork since reading Kraven's Last Hunt. Love those covers of his
I have a poster of the 1st issue of The Punisher miniseries framed & hanged on my wall 🙂
And heck yeah, Mike Zeck really did make some memorable Punisher covers & I love them! 🤘😃🙂
Take your time, Chris, and I really hope you get better.
Always one of my top2-3 artists all time. Secret Wars was where I discovered him. Thanks for making this homage!
Mike Zeck never missed. Great episode
Just woke up, gonna watch another great video by a fellow comic book fan with a hot cup of joe and a breakfast sandwich. Thanks for the great content Chris!
I love Mike Zeck's artwork. So glad I did get to thank him in person! Got to talk with him quite some time while he signed several of my comics for me. He's a really, really nice guy.
Always greatful for the effort that you put into each episode. IMO, Chris, your channel is one of the classiest that produces comicbook content. Thank you!
We do care, Chris, and we love you.
Loved this episode. Thank you for your efforts. Hang in there brother.
The way José Luís García-López created my mental image of the core DC Universe, Mike Zeck did the same for the Marvel characters for me. One of the few times the word iconic makes all the sense.
Please, take good care. Not every day has to be a homerun.
You Listed my job as your first example, Chris. Much appreciated.
Great stuff as always, Chris. As a kid in the '90s before I even knew most comic artists by name, I had a big poster in my bedroom featuring Captain America fighting a bunch of armed thugs. It was a Mike Zeck drawing with some very realistic inking and coloring, and it truthfully kinda scared me at night. 😂
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Zeck is one of my favorites, definitely on my Mt. Rushmore. His Punisher is still my favorite version, too. Great video!
As an aspiring cartoonist who's grown up watching your videos and still watches them, please know that you've been doing great work in highlighting and analyzing the works of many creators that I otherwise would have never discovered. Especially the past couple years, your level of production and writing has really improved, and I'm looking forward to seeing your channel continue to grow. You're a genuine lynch pin in the Comics community and I hope you get through this rough patch.
Thank you for your work, Chris.
Take care Chris! You are appreciated!!
Chris i admire all the work you do, i'm with you i hope you get better. Sometimes we have to go deeper in ourselves to find our way. If you wanna just talk about it im here.
Thank you for this! I feel terrible I didn't know this name. I think you and I are about the same age and G.I. Joe #48 marked my official start to comic collecting when I first opened a hold slot at the local comic shop. And seeing all of the other familiar covers from my youth were also by him. Wow. Great work as always!
Mike Zeck’s art is so good. His work on Punisher, Gi Joe, and Spider-Man are some of the best art in all of comics
Keep going, brother and stay strong. The videos you make are a delight and I love zoning out to them especially when my anxiety’s take over me. Just know what you do brings joy and makes others days brighter.
In regards to Mike Zeck; I had the pleasure of meeting him earlier this year at Supanova. He was very friendly and was nice enough to sign my books and even did a little Spidey Remarque for me. He’s a great artist.
Great episode, Chris. I had the opportunity to meet Mike Zeck at a Boston Comic Con about 8 years ago and he was an excellent, easy going guy. I am in my 50s, so like you, I grew up on his work and thanked him for still coming to cons (at that time) because he was one of my childhood heroes I really wanted to meet.
Don’t stress yourself for us, work at your own pace. Your well-being is more important than anything.
I'm glad you're reaching out for help!!
I want to thank you for giving me great insights into the comic book industry and introducing me to so many great artists. I used to dismiss comic books, but now I have great respect for many of them.
I'm hoping you know that there are people out there that do care and wish you the best. ❤
My late big brother and myself loved Mike Becks work! Thanks for the nostalgia moment.
Fantastic video
The Punisher Circle Of Blood is one of my favorite comic books ever! Mike Zeck's art is what sold me on that book.
For whatever reason Mike's KGBeast Batman cover has always stuck deep into the recesses of my mind. He's so mega talented...love Mike's work.
Thanks for the episode. The Zeck Punisher covers are what first brought the character to my attention. You take care of yourself Chris.
Mike zeck is incredible. Still holds up. Especially the punisher and the web of Spider-Man work.
I love Mike Zeck ! I got to meet him in Toronto and he graciously signed my Punisher Circle of Blood ! ICON!!!!!!!!!!!
Just got the notification. Excited to watch another great ComicTropes episode!
I was blessed to get a Dr. Doom commission from him in 2019. My favorite childhood artist.
Dude, we lost way too many good people in comics lately. Put yourself first and keep going and do well! I rather see a video from you rarely than never again. You are one of the people that keep comics nice! It´s very appreciated!